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 EU officials condemn Israeli killing of civilians seeking humanitarian aid Xinhua) 09:28, July 23, 2025 BRUSSELS, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Senior European Union officials on Tuesday strongly condemned the killing of civilians seeking humanitarian assistance in Gaza, warning Israel to uphold its commitments on aid access and compliance with international law. "The killing of civilians seeking aid in Gaza is indefensible," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas wrote on social media platform X, adding that she had spoken with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to "recall our understanding on aid flow" and demand that Israeli forces stop killing people at distribution points. "All options remain on the table if Israel doesn't deliver on its pledges," she added. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the concerns, calling the images from Gaza "unbearable" and emphasizing that "civilians cannot be targets. Never." "The EU reiterates its call for the free, safe and swift flow of humanitarian aid," von der Leyen posted on X. "And for the full respect of international and humanitarian law. Civilians in Gaza have suffered too much, for too long. It must stop now. Israel must deliver on its pledges." Their remarks come amid growing outrage over a series of deadly incidents in Gaza. Health authorities in the Gaza Strip said at least 85 people were killed on Sunday when Israeli forces opened fire on civilians gathering for aid. Another six were reported dead in a separate shooting near an aid point in Rafah. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) For consumers: your domestic wallet accepted at millions more businesses around the world For much of the world's population, international shopping and money transfers are not just difficult, at times they are impossible. While digital wallets and payments have become the preferred payment method in many markets domestically, consumers still require an international payment method to shop overseas. Sending money across borders can be similarly frustrating, with consumers facing fees, barriers, and delays. With PayPal World, consumers will enjoy benefits including: Access to shop at millions more businesses, online, in-store, and with AI agents, Pay international businesses using their domestic payment system or wallet of choice and local currency, Seamless money transfers to users across borders. For millions of businesses: access nearly two billion consumers with your existing integration Until now, businesses had to invest and build technology each time they added a new digital payment system or wallet to their checkout. Accepting more digital payments meant more work, and missing a popular option at checkout meant losing sales. With no additional integration, PayPal World will connect millions of businesses to digital payment system and wallet users worldwide, starting with PayPal and Venmo. Benefits will include: Expanded reach into new markets and nearly two billion users, Increased payment options and sales online, in-store, and with AI agents, Businesses automatically accept new digital payment options at checkout when more partners join the platform, with no additional development work required. PayPal World: a technology-agnostic platform for cross border commerce PayPal World is expected to go live beginning this fall with all partners interoperable with PayPal and Venmo. The platform is purpose-built to allow further interoperability if partner wallets decide to pursue that in the future, further expanding reach and acceptance across borders. Leveraging open commerce APIs, PayPal World solves the complexity of cross border commerce with a cloud native, multi-region deployment architecture that ensures low latency and high availability worldwide. The platform is designed with robust safety and security capabilities, creating a device and technology-agnostic environment for all partners. PayPal World is ready for the future of commerce. Digital payment systems and wallets will play an essential role in enabling agentic shopping, where consumers can shop and pay in conversation with AI agents using their digital wallet. In addition, the platform will be compatible with the latest technologies and commerce experiences including, over time, dynamic payment buttons and stablecoin. The first payment systems and digital wallets that will launch with PayPal World are (in alphabetical order): Mercado Pago (MOU signed further details being scoped) (MOU signed further details being scoped) NPCI International Payments Limited (UPI) PayPal Tenpay Global Venmo "PayPal World is a first-of-its-kind payments ecosystem that will bring together many of the world's largest payment systems and digital wallets on a single platform. It is testament to the passion our partners share for an inclusive, global digital economy and has the potential to revolutionize cross-border commerce," said Alex Chriss, President and CEO of PayPal. "The challenge of moving money across borders is incredibly complex, and yet this platform will make it so simple for nearly two billion consumers and businesses. We believe the changes we are announcing today have the potential to be a real game changer over time. We can't wait to welcome many more global partners, wallets, and their users soon." "We're thrilled about this tremendous opportunity. This partnership brings together our collective strengths to streamline cross-border commerce, building on the success each of us has achieved in our respective markets," said Osvaldo Gimenez, CEO of Mercado Pago. To scale the development of this innovative platform, PayPal and Mercado Pago are collaborating to explore opportunities in cross-border payments through PayPal World. Speaking on the development, Ritesh Shukla, Managing Director and CEO of NPCI International Payments Limited, said, "The integration of UPI on PayPal World's platform will mark a significant step in expanding UPI's global footprint. It aligns with our vision to make cross-border payments more seamless, secure, and inclusive. This collaboration will enhance convenience for Indian users making payments abroad and enable global businesses and merchants to tap into a growing base of UPI users." "We are glad that Tenpay Global, Tencent's cross-border payment platform, will support users of PayPal and Venmo in making payments by scanning Weixin Pay1 QR codes, further expanding access for global digital wallets to transact in the mainland of China. In addition to payments, Tenpay Global will deepen its collaboration with PayPal World in remittances," said Wenhui Yang, CEO of Tenpay Global. PayPal and Venmo become seamlessly interoperable As part of PayPal World, PayPal and Venmo will become seamlessly interoperable for the first time, expanding access to global peer-to-peer payments. This new functionality will allow PayPal and Venmo users to send money to each other, anywhere in the world. This marks a pivotal moment for Venmo and PayPal, connecting one of the most iconic social payments platforms to the full scale of PayPal's global network. In addition to peer-to-peer payments, coming in 2026, Venmo users will be able to shop both online and in-store at millions of merchants globally that accept PayPal. For merchants, it's a new way to reach Venmo's base of younger, urban, affluent, and digitally native consumers. This will expand the reach of PayPal's two-sided network, driving more demand for merchants and offering consumers more choice and flexibility. Connecting Venmo to PayPal World is the next step in expanding its utility and unlocking more value for both consumers and merchants. It will enable everything from everyday payments and in-store commerce to international money movement on a global scale. PayPal World illustrative use cases When traveling or shopping across borders, consumers will be able to use their domestic payment system or digital wallet to pay. For example, a PayPal user goes on holiday in China.They want to grab some coffee in a cafe that accepts Weixin Pay . All they'll need to do is open their PayPal app and scan to pay. . All they'll need to do is open their PayPal app and scan to pay. For example, a UPI user in India wants to buy a pair of sneakers from an online store in the USA . When they click on the PayPal button at checkout, they will see the UPI button they know to complete the transaction. wants to buy a pair of sneakers from an online store in the . When they click on the PayPal button at checkout, they will see the UPI button they know to complete the transaction. Sending money across the world will be as simple as sending a text. For example, a Venmo user in the US wants to send money to a friend in Germany for their birthday. They open the Venmo app, type in the phone number of their friend, and select their PayPal wallet. PayPal World is expected to go live beginning this fall, starting with partner wallets connecting to PayPal and Venmo. For more information, please visit the PayPal World website. Notes to Editors 1 Weixin Pay is the mobile payment function of Tencent's popular social platform Weixin and one of the major payment tools in China. Forward Looking Statements About PayPal This announcement contains forward-looking statements about the timing, features, and anticipated benefits of PayPal World services. Forward looking statements may be identified by words such as "may," "will," "would," "should," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend," "continue," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "project," "forecast," and other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made, and readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, our ability to timely enter into definitive agreements with wallet partners, the extent to which wallet partners use services offered by PayPal World, potential delays in the launch of PayPal World's services, the reaction of competitors, inability of participants to obtain necessary regulatory approvals, and unanticipated difficulties in operationalizing PayPal World. More information about these and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements can be found in PayPal Holdings, Inc.'s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information in this announcement speaks only as of the date hereof. PayPal assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein. About PayPal PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.paypal.com , https://about.pypl.com , and https://investor.pypl.com . Media Relations Contact: [email protected] SOURCE PayPal Holdings, Inc. An otherwise uneventful Casper City Council work session was highlighted by active discussions of ski rates at Hogadon Basin Ski Area just outside the town, which is administered by the city. On Tuesday evening, councilmembers discussed facility fees, purchasing incentives and the elasticity of Casper skiers buying habits during a lengthy discussion that ultimately saw the council approve rate hikes at the locally popular ski spot. Councilmembers also heard a presentation on a potential $5 million pedestrian bridge project and pushed forward an initiative to explore the sale of city-owned land adjacent to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center to the Bureau of Land Management, which runs the center. More on Hogadon rates The council once again discussed the prospect of raising rates at the Hogadon Basin Ski Area, which has been the topic of such talks after voters rejected a sixth-cent tax initiative to replace the ski hills chairlift in November. At the July 15 meeting, councilmembers balked at endorsing such increases, so Parks Chief Operations Officer Tom Brauer provided the council with three options Tuesday. A memo included in the council meeting packet described the existing lift as having significantly exceeded its useful life and noted that a potential failure would hurt the countys tourism economy and quality of life for Natrona County residents. It also noted the lift has experienced significant failures in the last two years. The rate increases would be aimed at bringing the ski area closer to profitability or at least reducing the subsidy the city provides. Facility staff also proposed a 10% facility fee to fund a replacement chairlift, which councilmembers supported at Tuesdays meeting. Overall, the council expressed support for raising rates in accordance with staff recommendations in an effort to reach a goal of recovering 70% of the resorts expenses while raising funds for a new chairlift down the line. The staff recommendation would remove preseason season pass discounts, add a 10% facility fee and increase rates for skiers across the board. Some notable changes include a bump on the family season pass from $1,300 to $1,500, on the adult season pass from $425 to $575 and the youth season pass from $450 to $475. No final decisions were made in the work session, which was used to outline parameters the council would want included in a future resolution. North Platte Pedestrian Bridge Councilmembers received a presentation from Brauer on designs for a proposed pedestrian bridge just east of Poplar Street, which aims to reroute pedestrian traffic away from the four-lane vehicle bridge that pedestrians currently have to use. The project carries a total estimated price tag of $5.75 million, with $3.5 million coming from a grant constituted of leftover ARPA funds and the remaining $2.25 million coming from a mixture of water and sewer costs. The bridge was pitched as a dual-purpose project: It would provide pedestrians with a safer place to cross the North Platte as opposed to on Poplar Street and it would provide a cheaper way to hang water and sewer utility lines than the alternative. Brauer said a WYDOT estimate quoted roughly $5 million to hang the utility lines to the existing bridge. Enter the $3.5 million Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Grant, which can be put toward a pedestrian bridge but not toward hanging lines on the existing Poplar Street bridge. The project would bring several related improvements, such as connections to surrounding pathways, lighting improvements and sewer and utility upgrades. The arch design proposed in the meeting packet aims to ease construction and lower costs. Brauer noted the expense of a more traditional bridge design which would likely feature supports placed in the river but noted it would cost significantly more because of groundwater and soil contamination from the old Amoco refinery. The design pitched at Tuesdays meeting featured an arch anchored by piles driven into the ground at opposite sides of the river. Driving piles would help avoid contaminated waste disposal costs. While the costs of actual decontamination would be covered by the responsible corporation, the city would still bear the cost of shipping contaminated soil to a site where it could be treated. Councilmembers praised the design of the bridge, and Councilwoman Gena Jensen even noted its possible appeal as an architectural draw akin to the Golden Gate Bridge. Having that in Casper is going to be unique and draw a lot of tourism as well, Jensen said. Ford Wyoming Center land sale Councilmembers also discussed the possibility of selling a near-50-acre plot of land southwest of the Ford Wyoming Center to the BLM to expand the interpretive capability of the center. The council recommended the city move forward with exploring the possibility of a sale to the BLM while retaining a roughly 11-acre area north of the road leading to the National Historic Trails Interpretive centers parking lot. No estimated sale price was given at the meeting because of the early stage of the process. Because the transaction is between two government entities, the city wouldnt have to open the sale to a bidding process, so the price would likely align with an appraisal of the land, which is one of the next steps after the councils go-ahead. The council heard about the topic in a pre-meeting on June 17, wherein councilmembers expressed concern about the aforementioned 11-acre plot north of the interpretive center. In Tuesdays presentation, the section which is 10.9 acres, to be precise was removed from the package being discussed. It was demarcated as city land, which City Manager Carter Napier asked councilmembers to demarcate for public use or conservation purposes. EASTERN Credit Union posted a total comprehensive loss of $29.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, representing a 52% increase from the $19.3 million loss recorded in 2022. According to its audited financial statements, total operating income fell by $3.9 million year over year, while total expenditure rose by $7.8 million, the credit union disclosed in its annual report. SIXTY-YEAR-OLD David Greeves died after he attempted to save his home which caught fire whil HUNTINGTON, Ind., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Northeast Indiana Bancorp, Inc., (OTCQB: NIDB), the parent company of First Federal Savings Bank, has announced that the Corporation will pay a cash dividend of $0.18 per common share. This cash dividend will be payable on August 21, 2025, to common shareholders of record on August 7, 2025. The Company also announced the Board approved a 5%, or approximately 120,000 share repurchase plan during the Annual Meeting on April 22, 2025. CEO Mike Zahn said, "We are pleased to be in a position to continue to provide a strong dividend along with the opportunity to repurchase shares as part of our capital management plan to enhance shareholder value." Through July 22, 2025, the Company has purchased 9,393 shares under the repurchase plan. The book value of NIDB's stock was $21.03 per common share as of June 30, 2025. The last reported trade of the Company's stock at the close of business on July 22, 2025 was $17.50 per common share and the number of outstanding common shares was 2,387,503 as of the same date. The annualized dividend yield is currently 4.11% when annualizing the current quarter cash dividend of $0.18 per common share against the July 22, 2025 closing price of $17.50 per common share. Northeast Indiana Bancorp, Inc. is headquartered at 648 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, Indiana. The company offers a full array of banking and financial brokerage services to its customers through its main office in Huntington and seven full-service Indiana offices in Huntington (2), Warsaw (2) and Fort Wayne (3). The Company is traded on the OTC Markets Group, Inc. (www.otcmarkets.com) utilizing the OTCQB platform under the symbol "NIDB". Our web site address is www.firstfedindiana.bank. SOURCE Northeast Indiana Bancorp, Inc. National security concerns: Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro, centre, with his team of officers, speaks to the media along the Toco Main Road in Rampanalgas, where kidnap victim Jankie Satie Karim was rescued on Monday. Photo: ISHMAEL SALANDY First Citizens bank is perhaps the greatest comeback story in Trinidad and Tobagos financial history, and certainly among its major public relations triumphs. Created in 1993 from the collapse of three institutionsthe National Commercial Bank (NCB), the Workers Bank, and the Trinidad Cooperative Bank (TCB)FCB was able to win public confidence and perform well over the ensuing 31 years. In its 2024 annual report, Group CEO Karen Darbasie noted First Citizens had copped the number one spot for Best Performing Bank in Trinidad and Tobago in The Banker Top 30 Caribbean Banks of 2024 ranking. Now, however, the UNC administrations ham-fisted handling of Darbasies pending departure threatens to undermine public trust in the bank. The Government thus needs to explain quickly, clearly, and thoroughly what has triggered the move to have her relieved of her position. 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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. 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 MORRISVILLE, N.C., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pyxus International, Inc. (OTCID: PYYX) ("Pyxus International" or the "Company"), a global value-added agricultural company, today announced its Board of Directors has appointed Dustin Styons as the Company's executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective immediately. Dustin Styons, newly appointed executive vice president and chief financial officer of Pyxus International. Since joining the Company in 2005, Styons has held several leadership roles, most recently serving as interim chief financial officer since February 2025 and executive vice president, business strategy and sales since September 2023. Previously, he served as chief financial officer of Pyxus' largest subsidiary, Alliance One International, and also served as vice president of corporate finance and business development, and regional finance director for North and Central America. As CFO, Styons will continue to report to Pyxus' President and CEO Pieter Sikkel and is responsible for all aspects of the Company's financial strategy, including financial planning and analysis, investor relations, treasury, financial reporting, tax, internal audit and accounting. In addition to his financial responsibilities, he will continue to lead the Company's Business Strategy function and oversee the Global Specialty Products (GSP) division. "On behalf of Pyxus and our Board of Directors, I am pleased to officially welcome Dustin as our chief financial officer," said Pyxus President and CEO Pieter Sikkel. "During his time as interim CFO, Dustin has shown strong leadership and a steady hand, guiding us through an important period with clarity and confidence. With nearly two decades of experience at our Company and deep expertise in corporate finance, strategy and operations, he brings both continuity and a forward-thinking approach that further strengthens our position for the future." About Pyxus International, Inc. Pyxus International, Inc. is a global agricultural company with more than 150 years of experience delivering value-added products and services to businesses and customers. Driven by a united purposeto transform people's lives, so that together we can grow a better worldPyxus International, its subsidiaries and affiliates, are trusted providers of responsibly sourced, independently verified, sustainable, and traceable products and ingredients. For more information, visit www.pyxus.com. SOURCE Pyxus International, Inc. 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 Teenage Boss: Next Level: July 26 Weaning her mum off her Turkish treats, Caitlins school ski trip is in constant jeopardy as she tries to control the lavish food budget. Season 4 of Teenage Boss: Next Level hosted by Emma Watkins premieres this week on ABC Family. The 10 part series produced by McAvoy Media follows what happens when a teenager takes responsibility for the familys finances for a month. Anyone planning a visit to Caitlins household needs to be prepared to eat a lavish array of lovingly prepared Turkish food. Mum Seher spends much of her time, and money, seeking out authentic Turkish ingredients so she can feed a steady stream of guests. Caitlins savings goal is a school ski trip but shell have her work cut out reining in her mums food obsession. Towards the end of her month Ramadan slows things down in the kitchen but only until sunset, when mum invites dozens of friends to break the fast and, more than likely, Caitlins carefully crafted budget! 7:30pm Saturday July 26 on ABC Family (All episodes on ABC iview from 7am Friday 25 July). Arsheed Ahmad, TwoCircles.net Guwahati: When bulldozers rumbled into Betbari village in Assams Goalpara district on a Thursday morning, 19-year-old Shakwar Ali was at his shop in a nearby village, unaware that within hours, his life would be taken by a police bullet to the head. Support TwoCircles He just wanted to help us survive. He ran a small shop we were poor, and he left school early to earn for the family. He was our only hope, said his father, 60-year-old Mahmood Ali, with his voice steeped in grief and disbelief. The police claim they fired in retaliation after being allegedly attacked while dismantling what they called encroachments. But for families like the Alis, whose homes were among the 1,080 reduced to rubble in the Paikan Reserve Forest eviction drive, it was not only about land. It was about losing the fragile sense of security they clung to. And for Shakwar, it cost his life. A Boy Who Grew Up Too Fast Shakwar was the youngest of six siblings. Two sisters are married, one brother lives separately and the rest, including his aging parents, depended entirely on him. They did not own land. Their shelter was a small tin-roofed house in Betbari, one of the many homes slowly built over time in the forests shadow. He left school in the eighth grade. Not because he did not want to study, but because he had to take care of family expenses. His grocery shop sold basics, just enough to get by. Nothing fancy. Just survival. He used to open the shop before sunrise. Whatever he earned, he gave to us. He used to say, I will take care of you. Dont worry, said Mahmood. But on Thursday, that promise came to a brutal end. Protests erupted when police and forest officials dug up a small road, the only access route to makeshift tents now home to hundreds of displaced families. Residents pleaded with them to stop. They did not. Tensions boiled over. According to eyewitnesses, the police opened fire into the crowd. Shakwar was shot in the head. Several others were wounded, two by bullets, now lying in critical condition in a Guwahati hospital. Only Muslim Homes Were Destroyed The joint operation by the police and forest officials cleared nearly 140 hectares of land. Entire families were displaced. Most of them were Bengali-origin Muslims who had been living in the area for generations. They are targeting us. There were Hindu families here too; their homes are still standing. But 1,080 Muslim families? Gone, alleged Shakwars maternal uncle Lalchand Ali. Anger laced with hurt, he added that officials threatened to remove them from voter rolls, branding them Bangladeshis. They told us, Go back to Bangladesh, this is not your land. Is this not our country? he asked. Officials, meanwhile, claim a different version. Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Kumar Singh said personnel came under attack while doing their duty and responded in retaliation. Two policemen, he said, were injured in the clash. But for residents, the duty they speak of, tearing down tents and access paths, feels more like deliberate cruelty. Our homes are already gone. Now they are even destroying the tents we live in. Where do we go? said another evicted resident, choosing not to be named. Since the violence, fear has seeped into every corner of the village. Many have gone into hiding, dreading raids, detentions and more arrests. A Pattern of Pain Shakwars killing is not an isolated incident. It follows a pattern of police firing during eviction drives in Assam, especially since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took power in 2016. Seven Muslims have been shot dead in such operations, often while resisting evictions from lands they had made their home over decades. In 2021, the world watched in horror as a photographer stomped on the body of a man shot during an eviction in Dhalpur. In 2023, a woman was killed in Burha Chapori. Last September, two more people were shot in Kamrup. Government data reveals the scale of this displacement. Over 10,620 families have been evicted between 2016 and August 2024. Between September 2024 and July 2025 alone, 4,300 families were forced out, most of them Muslims. No Help, No Compensation After the shooting, the police sealed off the area. People were not even allowed to gather in groups. Panic swept the village. Many families fled. The Alis now sleep on borrowed floor space at a relatives house in Balatmadi. No one from the government has come with help. Yes, the MLA and MP came but no one promised compensation. No justice for my son, said Mahmood. His voice faltered. But he did not cry. Whats the use of crying now? The police shot him in the head. He did not even have a chance, he said. At the time of his death, Shakwar was not protesting, his family claimed. He was there, standing near the only path left to their shelter, trying to protect it. Trying to live. Sami Ahmad, TwoCircles.net Patna: Ruby Devi of Phulwari Sharif (Patna) came to the podium confidently, took the microphone and began narrating her woes, but soon, she was in tears. She said, with her voice chocking, Jisko maa nahi hai, jisko baap nahin hai oo kahan se kagaz layega? Ham logon ke maa-baap bahut pahle guzar gaye. Support TwoCircles (One with no mother, no father, where is he/she supposed to bring their documents from? Our parents passed away a long time ago.) After a few moments of silence, she, in her early forties, regained her composure and stated, Anganwadi worker had asked for those papers. I do nothing. I am a homemaker. I do not have land, and we live on unauthorised government land. She was speaking at a Jan Sunwai (public hearing) on the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision drive of the voter list in poll-bound Bihar. The programme was organised at the Bihar Industries Association Hall in Patna on July 21, 2025. Ruby was allegedly told that if her name was struck off the voter list, she would not receive government ration and other benefits meant for the poor. Many men and women like her are caught in the document-hunting web created by the controversial SIR exercise across the state, affecting especially the poor communities. Around two dozen such affected persons gave their testimonies before the panel at the Jan Sunwai. They had come to Patna from various parts of the state to share their difficulties. The panel included former judges and bureaucrats, academicians, politicians and activists such as Wajahat Habibullah (ex-chief information commissioner), Anjana Prakash (former Patna High Court judge), Professor D.N. Diwakar (former director, A.N. Sinha Institute), Jean Dreze (economist), Professor Nandini Sundar (sociologist), Nadeem Khan (activist and secretary of the Association of Protection of Civil Rights), Yogendra Yadav (social and political activist) and Bhanwar Meghwanshi (social activist). Sixty-year-old Sumitra Devi from Saharsa had a similar story. She told the panel, My mummy-pappa died when I was a child. How can I give their date of birth and certificates? She recalled what the Booth Level Officer (BLO) reportedly told her, Agar kagaz nahin jama hoga tou tum sarkar ka log nahin hoga. (If you do not submit he papers, you will not be included in the government list and will lose the benefits.) She said she told the BLO, Ham kahan se lawenge jati praman patra, awasiya praman patra aur janam patri? (From where will I get caste and domicile certificates and birth certificate?) If the government will not keep us here, we will move to wherever we can get a place, the visibly shaken Sumitra said. Female voters, especially those with limited awareness, are finding it difficult to produce their parental documents, as many now live in their spouses village. Ishaque from Katihar told the panel, Master saheb (teachers who have been deputed as BLOs) asked for Rs 100 for filling my forms. I gave my thumb impression on the form. He lives on government land but has no documents. He said the BLO allegedly told him that if he did not pay the money, his form would not be filled. One BLO was suspended after a video went viral in which he was seen asking for money in exchange for filling out the form. Munni Devi from Narpatganj (Araria district) said, My husband and father-in-law are migrant labourers. Their papers are still not filled. I provided their Aadhaar cards, but their forms were not filled. She expressed fear that if their names are not included, they will not get the government ration. Umesh Ravidas from Kochas (Rohtas district) told the panel that when he received the enumeration form, it was time to go to the field for farming. I was not told by the BLO how to fill the form. We do not know what was there in the form. Somebody filled my form. This is a challenge for my entire village, he said. Fifty-five-year-old Govind Paswan of Saharsa narrated his struggle to get the enumeration form filled. I work at a distance. When I returned, I was told by someone that I needed to fill out the form and submit documents and photos. He was allegedly asked to provide documents of his in-laws for verification of credentials of his wife as a voter. I told him my saas-sasur (in-laws) are no more. How can I give their papers? he said. Govind said that out of four members of the family, forms for three were given, but one form was missing. According to the Election Commission, as of June 24, 2025, Bihar had 7,89,69, 844 voters. On July 22, it claimed that enumeration forms for over 90 percent of voters had been filled. However, it also stated that over 52 lakh voters were found missing, including more than 26 lakh reported to have been permanently shifted. The panel highlighted that the Election Commissions SIR process was severely affecting marginalised communities in Bihar. It was pointed out that the process was not a revision, but rather an exercise to prepare a fresh voter list. A common grievance was that voters were not given any acknowledgement of submission of their forms. There is widespread fear about what will happen after August 1, when the draft roll of the voter list will be published, as the demand for documents will intensify after that. Sana Kauser, TwoCircles.net New Delhi: It was around 7:40 a.m. when Rudra, a 20-year-old student of Zakir Hussain College, Delhi University, sent his last message to a friend, informing that he had just reached New Delhi railway station from Kolkata in West Bengal. What unfolded next was a silence that left his friends and family anxious and alarmed. Support TwoCircles He never made it out of the station. He was allegedly picked up by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police without any warrant, legal notice and any trace of where he was being taken. Rudra was not alone. Between July 9 and July 19, seven students and activists, including Rudra and Ehtemamul Haque, a law graduate from Jamia Millia Islamia, were detained from different locations across Delhi. The others included Gurkirat, Gaurav and Gaurang from the Bhagat Singh Chhatra Ekta Manch (bsCEM), as well as Baadal and Ehtemam from the Forum Against Corporatisation and Militarisation (FACM) and Samrat Singh, a psychologist from Haryana. None of them were allegedly shown warrants. None had access to legal help. For days, their whereabouts were unknown. Their only crime, according to them, was participating in protests, raising their voices and questioning power. According to the detainees, they were subjected to brutal custodial torture while in detention. Right group Campaign Against State Repression (CASR) alleged that the detainees were stripped naked, beaten, electrocuted and even forced face-first into toilet bowls. Female activists were not allegedly spared either. They were allegedly threatened with rape. One of them alleged that an iron rod would be used. These acts, CASR stated, amount to sexual torture, a gross violation of human dignity and constitutional protections under Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and liberty. Gurkirat and Gaurav were released on July 16 and 18, while Baadal and Ehtemam were freed on July 17. Samrat was also released on July 18. But their release came with conditions. According to them, they were allegedly warned not to speak publicly. One of them was even allegedly pressured to sign an undertaking promising not to return to Delhi. Jyoti, a PhD student at Jamia Millia Islamia and a friend of the group, has been trying to reach them. All have gone offline. Phones are switched off. Social media accounts are silent. She says they are too shaken to talk. She herself is not unfamiliar with police action. During a peaceful student protest on her campus months ago, she was picked up and taken in by the police. I was beaten and verbally abused by the police. It has been months, and they still summon me for questioning wherever I go, she said. She continued, Students voices are being silenced, and we are treated as if we are infiltrators. Despite no FIR against us, the police forcibly took our photographs and fingerprints as though we were criminals. They call us Urban Naxals. This is not the first time. It has become a pattern. This time, they have crossed all limits. We are not going to tolerate this. She added, We want the media to hear our side. If no one speaks about this, it will keep happening to others and to anyone. In a public statement, the CASR described the police action as blatant violations of constitutional rights, especially Articles 21 and 22. The latter protects an individuals right to be informed of the reason for arrest and to access legal counsel. The group stated that the Delhi Police ignored Supreme Court directives, particularly the D.K. Basu guidelines, which mandate procedures for arrests such as preparing arrest memos, informing families and allowing lawyers to meet detainees. The Supreme Court has consistently held that custodial torture is illegal and an assault on the rule of law, the CASR said. The torture, they emphasised, was not just physical but psychological. Female detainees were not only allegedly abused verbally, but were subjected to threats that deeply scar the mind. One was reportedly told she would be raped with a rod, an alleged intimidation tactic that directly constitutes sexual torture under both domestic and international law. Jyoti offered another grim reminder of what state action looks like when misused. Samrat Singh was not even part of any student wing or group. Still, he was detained in 2009 under the stringent UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act). It took five years for him to secure bail. Though the charges were false, he lost those five years and endured physical and mental torture. Now, they are doing the same to us. They are misusing laws like UAPA to trap us, she said. Efforts to contact the recently released detainees have failed. Their phones remain switched off and social media accounts lie dormant. Their silence speaks loudly. The founder of a violent militia group who was pardoned for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack by President Donald Trump, warned that Trump faces trouble over not releasing documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the far-right group the Oath Keepers, has joined a growing chorus of MAGA voices who have expressed anger that Trump hasnt released more information about Epstein, the disgraced financier who killed himself in 2019 before he was set to face trial for sex crimes. I believe 90% of his own base understands that Epstein was up to something and we know thats the tip of the iceberg, Rhodes told a crowd at a Comfort Inn in Texas last week, the Daily Beast first reported on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhodes was referring to Attorney General Pam Bondis announcement earlier this month that documents related to Epstein including potential information on his co-conspirators dont exist. Trump, a longtime friend of Epstein, has blamed Democrats over what he calls a hoax. Its really disheartening to see President Trump just declare that to be a hoax, Rhodes said. I dont think it is. And I think its going to cause him trouble in his own base. It already is. Rhodes was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his role in the Jan. 6 attack and was pardoned by Trump along with more than 1,500 other rioters. Rhodes and his fellow Oath Keepers had planned to stop Congress from certifying Joe Bidens election by any means necessary, including using an arsenal of guns that they brought from across the country if Trump had invoked the Insurrection Act that day. Trump falsely claimed his poll numbers have gone up, significantly following the lack of Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My Poll Numbers within the Republican Party, and MAGA, have gone up, significantly, since the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax was exposed by the Radical Left Democrats and, just plain troublemakers, Trump wrote Sunday on his social media platform Truth Social. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) canceled upcoming House votes on Tuesday and is sending lawmakers home early for a five-week recess to block a bipartisan effort to force a vote on releasing files on Epstein. On Tuesday, Trump again downplayed his role with Epstein. We had the Greatest Six Months of any President in the History of our Country, and all the Fake News wants to talk about is the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax! Trump wrote on Truth Social. TAMPA, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Two of the world's leading adrenal experts are putting Tampa on the map again. Dr. Tobias Carling, the world's highest-volume adrenal surgeon, and Meredith LaRue, APRN, of the Carling Adrenal Center at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery, have just published a game-changing article in the international journal Endocrine-Related Cancer. Their work offers fresh hope for patients battling adrenal tumors and hormone disorders. The timing couldn't be better. This weekend, Florida's top endocrinologists will gather in Orlando for the Florida Endocrine Association (FEA) annual meetingwhere the buzz around this breakthrough is already starting. "People often don't realize how much these little glands matter until they're sick." Post this Tiny Glands, Big Problems The adrenal glands may be small, but when they go haywire, they can wreak havoc on your health. Sitting on top of your kidneys, these hormone-producing glands control blood pressure, stress response, and metabolism. When something goes wronglike a tumor or overactive hormone productionit can lead to serious problems: dangerously high blood pressure, bone loss, fatigue, and even life-threatening cancers. "People often don't realize how much these little glands matter until they're sick," said Dr. Carling. "The good news? With the right surgery, we can cure most adrenal problemssometimes in as little as 20 minutes." Smarter, Safer Surgery In their new publication, Dr. Carling and Meredith LaRue call for a personalized approach to adrenal surgeryone that avoids unnecessary procedures and focuses on preserving healthy adrenal function whenever possible. Their findings come from an impressive 1,100+ adrenal operations performed over just 30 monthsthe largest series of its kind anywhere in the world. Here's what their approach means for patients: Faster treatment for high blood pressure caused by adrenal tumors (Primary Aldosteronism): No more waiting months for complicated tests. In many cases, patients can go straight to surgeryand walk out cured in one day. No more waiting months for complicated tests. In many cases, patients can go straight to surgeryand walk out cured in one day. Better care for Cushing's syndrome: Whether it's mild or severe, adrenal surgery is the only true cure. Their technique tailor's surgery to the patient, removing just the diseased part of the gland whenever possible. Whether it's mild or severe, adrenal surgery is the only true cure. Their technique tailor's surgery to the patient, removing just the diseased part of the gland whenever possible. Safer operations for pheochromocytomas (adrenaline-producing tumors): Their minimally invasive approach gets patients back on their feet faster, often without the long pre-surgery drug protocols used elsewhere. Their minimally invasive approach gets patients back on their feet faster, often without the long pre-surgery drug protocols used elsewhere. Hope for adrenal cancer patients: For aggressive cancers like adrenocortical carcinoma, Dr. Carling's meticulous technique gives patients the best chance at a cure. Why It Matters For patients like Sarah, 42, who suffered with uncontrolled high blood pressure and crushing fatigue for years, this approach is life-changing. "I felt 20 years older than I am. No one could figure out why. Dr. Carling found the tumor, operated, and within days I felt like myself again," she said. "Too often, patients are told to 'wait and see' or are put on lifelong medication. But in many cases, surgery is the only real cure," explained Meredith LaRue, APRN. "Our goal is to give patients their lives backand we're doing it every single day." Setting the Gold Standard Located at the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa, the Carling Adrenal Center is the busiest adrenal surgery program in the world. Patients fly in from all 50 states and over 40 countries seeking the expertise of Dr. Carling and his team. Their personalized approach isn't just innovativeit's backed by results: Over 600 adrenal surgeries annually Cure rates among the highest in the world Minimal complications and faster recoveries "Volume matters in surgery," said Dr. Carling. "When you do hundreds of these operations a year, you see every possible variation. That experience allows us to tailor treatment to each individual and get it right the first time." What's Next As they prepare to present their findings to colleagues at the FEA annual meeting, Dr. Carling and Meredith hope their research inspires other centers to adopt more individualized, patient-centered care for adrenal disorders. "This is more than just a scientific paperit's a new way forward for adrenal patients everywhere," said Dr. Carling. About the Carling Adrenal Center The Carling Adrenal Center, part of the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa, FL, is the highest-volume adrenal surgery center in the world. Specializing in minimally invasive procedures for adrenal tumors and hormone disorders, the center attracts patients globally for its unmatched expertise and exceptional outcomes. Learn more: www.adrenal.com | (813) 972-0000 Media contact: Julie Canan 941 468 3002 [email protected] SOURCE Carling Adrenal Center Two veterinary school students have each been awarded $140,000 scholarships for the second year in a row, and the third annual scholarship is announced DAVIS, Calif., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The VIN Foundation is excited to announce the Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship created by Becky Godchaux has awarded two veterinary school scholarships for Fall 2025. Each awardee will receive up to $35,000 per year, for a total of up to $140,000 per student for the duration of their attendance at veterinary school, up to four years. VIN Foundation 2025 Scholarship Awardees VIN Foundation Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship created by Becky Godchaux The two awardees are Natalie Conomos who will be attending the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, and Jack Scholovich who will be attending the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Natalie shared her excitement, "I am incredibly grateful to be a recipient of this scholarship. The generosity of Ms. Godchaux and the resources that the VIN Foundation provides to students like myself will be an enormous asset to my career goals of one day becoming a practice owner." Jack Scholovich expressed, "I am beyond honored to be a recipient of this scholarship. Being an awardee means everything to me, and it truly feels like a culmination of all of the hard work that has gone into the last few years leading up to this point. I am greatly inspired by the mission of the VIN Foundation and am thankful to have individuals like Ms. Godchaux who believes in and supports the students who are striving to enter the veterinary profession." Animal lover Becky Godchaux created this scholarship in 2023 in recognition of her veterinarian, Dr. Mike Dunn. Ms. Godchaux's goal with this scholarship is to nurture the creation of more veterinarians like Mike. As she says, "The happiness of my dogs is only as good as their health, and that is dependent on good veterinary care." The VIN Foundation is honored to be the chosen home for this generous one-of-a-kind scholarship. Ms. Godchaux shared, "While I am supporting the students by providing the scholarship for the school tuition, it feels good to know the VIN Foundation is providing the support of helpful programs and tools to guide them through their careers and set them up for success." Ms. Godchaux has generously extended this scholarship for a third cohort of veterinary students entering Fall 2026. The 2026 annual Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship created by Becky Godchaux will open for submissions on July 28, 2025. The Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship created by Becky Godchaux, annually awards two students entering a United States veterinary school up to $35,000 each per year for a total of up to $140,000 each for four years. This scholarship is restricted to veterinary students who are committed to practicing companion animal veterinary medicine. Awardees will also receive mentorship and support via VIN Foundation programs through school and beyond, including mental wellness support, student debt support, and everything in between. Learn more about the scholarship on the VIN Foundation website. About VIN Foundation The VIN Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides helpful programs to veterinarians throughout their careers so they can help our animals and those who care for them. The VIN Foundation was created by members of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), an online community of veterinarians and veterinary students with over 113,000 members worldwide. Learn more about the VIN Foundation and its resources at https://VINFoundation.org. The VIN Foundation is made possible through generous gifts by individual donors and grants; all gifts made to the VIN Foundation are tax deductible. Jordan benShea VIN Foundation (888) 616-6506 [email protected] SOURCE VIN Foundation HANGZHOU, China, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, iResearch released its highly anticipated 2025 Overseas Influencer Marketing SaaS Industry Research Report. According to the report, WotoHub ranks first in market share among China's cross-border e-commerce overseas influencer marketing full-cycle management SaaS platforms, establishing itself as the undisputed leader in this sector. As a global pioneer in content marketing, WotoHub, a subsidiary of WotoKOL Network, draws its competitive edge not only from its dual engines of technology and service, but also from its deep expertise in full-cycle overseas influencer marketing and its proven track record serving over 100,000 Chinese users. Extensive Influencer Database WotoHub boasts a database of over 60 million global influencers, spanning more than 150 countries and 200 languages; TikTok-Specific Resources The platform features all TikTok live commerce influencers, covering the entire TikTok Shop ecosystem; It has onboarded over 4.2 million live commerce influencers in newly launched countries and more than 2 million in the US market. Amazon-Specific Resources WotoHub provides access to over 155,000 Amazon influencers, carefully selected for their active engagement and sales-driving capabilities. User-Friendly Operations & Asset Accumulation With intuitive, "one-click" operations and expert team guidance, WotoHub automates the entire overseas influencer marketing process. The platform enables efficient, precise, and cost-effective campaigns, transparent employee management, and digital asset accumulation to maximize returns. Intelligent Marketing for Enhanced Quality and Efficiency WotoHub integrates the entire workflowdiscovery, screening, outreach, monitoring, and managementinto a unified overseas influencer marketing chain; The AI-driven system enables frequent, high-quality collaborations and efficient influencer engagement; Real-time data monitoring and analytics allow for timely marketing strategy adjustments and expanded campaign impact. Eight Years of Expertise With eight years of professional marketing system development and overseas influencer marketing experience, WotoHub has accumulated over one billion data points on influencer analysis and content. Five Major Version Upgrades The platform has undergone five major version upgrades and more than 50 feature updates, redefining user experience through relentless service optimization. 100,000 Chinese Users WotoHub now serves over 100,000 users in China, securing the top spot in market share. 10M+ R&D Investment Supported by a high-caliber technical team of over 30 experts, WotoHub invests more than RMB10 million annually in system research and development. In summary, WotoHub's leading market share in China is no coincidence it is the result of sustained investment and relentless innovation. WotoHub is not just a tool provider, but a true growth partner. Through WotoHub's full-cycle empowerment, Chinese brands can efficiently connect with top global influencers, overcome geographical and cultural barriers, and rapidly build brand presence on core social media platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, as well as on key e-commerce battlegrounds like Amazon. This empowers brands to make the leap from "going global" to "winning sales." In September 2025, WotoHub will launch its global version, continuing to uphold its core philosophy of "technology and service driving efficiency, data empowering decision-making, and resources connecting the world." WotoHub will further expand the boundaries of overseas influencer marketing, solidify and grow its market leadership, and become the most intelligent, reliable, and valuable core partner for 100,000 Chinese users and global brands seeking to build worldwide influence. Stay tuned! SOURCE WotoHub For decades, low labour costs and an abundant workforce served as key competitive advantages. Today, a more durable, compelling asset steadily takes their place: institutional credibility. This foundational shift is no longer merely theoretical, strong empirical evidence substantiates it. Dr. Sven David, general director and CEO at VIET Transformation Advisors In the first half of 2025, foreign direct investment inflows surged by an impressive 32.6 per cent to $21.52 billion, according to figures from Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance. This robust growth underlines Vietnams emergence as a pivotal investment destination within a dynamic regional landscape, where even countries like Thailand recorded a 34 per cent increase in foreign investment during the first five months. Yet, the deeper transformation lies not in headline figures, but in profound policy changes, infrastructure enhancements, and a burgeoning culture of administrative accountability reshaping the entire investment ecosystem. Vietnams investment climate has long benefited from its inherent dynamism and sense of possibility. As the nation matures economically, it consciously shifts towards a model grounded in predictability, transparency, and trust. The transition from informal arrangements and ad hoc decisions to a system governed by clear, rules-based frameworks is reshaping how investors view and interact with the Vietnamese market. This structural evolution is vital not only for attracting fresh capital, but also for engaging a more sophisticated cohort of strategic investors: those seeking long-term certainty and a transparent operating environment. It signals Vietnams intent to transition from a cost-based manufacturing hub to a destination for sustainable, high-value investment. Vietnams determined push for administrative reform reflects two concurrent forces: domestic demands for improved governance and international expectations shaped by a complex global investment context, especially in the wake of developments like Base Erosion and Profit Shifting 2.0. The government has responded decisively. As reported by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2025, a major restructuring of central government institutions reduced ministries and central agencies by approximately 20 per cent. This included the consolidation of five ministries, four regulatory bodies, and five national media institutions. Far from symbolic, these efforts represent a fundamental redefinition of the states role: transitioning from a traditionally cautious gatekeeper to an agile, transparent, and responsive facilitator. This captures a pivotal development: the replacement of informal, discretionary systems with more predictable and formal structures, which serve as the cornerstone of long-term institutional trust. Reform and realignment Vietnams journey towards smart governance is anchored in a national commitment to comprehensive digital transformation. The strategy for e-government development towards 2030, issued in 2021, laid the strategic groundwork for this shift, setting the stage for the full digitalisation of public services by the end of 2025, with broader digital government and society goals extending to 2030. Operational aspects are advanced through rules like those in 2024 establishing unified standards and predictable timelines for administrative procedures. Particular emphasis is placed on reforming domains that have historically challenged investors, especially licensing and land administration. These areas are undergoing detailed process reengineering. Where once ambiguity and discretion prevailed, Vietnam now introduces standardised, repeatable, and digitally enabled processes. These reforms improve efficiency and enable more consistent investor experiences across provincial and sectoral boundaries. While implementation varies regionally and remains technically complex, the overarching approach is pragmatic, sustained reform focused on infrastructure modernisation and tailored, context-sensitive execution. This transition to predictable systems constitutes a form of confidence infrastructure, an essential enabling layer that enhances trust between state and investor. Institutional credibility has moved decisively to the centre of Vietnams foreign funding strategy. This includes greater transparency, procedural consistency, and enforceable legal frameworks. The revised legal environment aligns investment incentives more closely with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities and digital transformation objectives. Criteria for sectoral eligibility and strategic project classification are now more clearly defined, in contrast to broader frameworks such as the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement. This alignment offers two significant advantages. Firstly, it brings Vietnam closer in line with global tax norms such as those outlined under the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Developments Pillar Two framework and enshrined domestically through 2023 regulations on global minimum tax. This reduces fiscal uncertainty for multinational corporations and mitigates potential for international tax disputes. Secondly, and equally important, it sends a compelling message to sophisticated investors that Vietnam is serious about institutional maturity and regulatory integrity. These investors increasingly view regulatory certainty as a critical factor, often placing it on par with traditional considerations like workforce availability, geographic positioning, or supply chain integration. This reflects a broader truth that Vietnam no longer needs to be the easiest market, but it can be the most trusted. The country redefines its competitive advantage: not by lowering barriers, but by raising standards of clarity and reliability. This approach invites businesses committed to long-term success to plan and operate with greater confidence. Rethinking entry and operations Investor behaviour is evolving. Traditional entry drivers such as generous tax holidays or abundant low-cost labour are no longer sufficient to attract the most discerning capital. Strategic investors now prioritise risk-adjusted performance metrics. Among these, the quality of local governance, the proven resilience of operations, and the strength of compliance capacity have emerged as new and critical key performance indicators. Todays investment success in Vietnam is as dependent on navigating regulatory complexity as it is on identifying market potential. Accordingly, high-performing investors increasingly embrace a three-part strategy. The first part is digital due diligence, leveraging advanced digital tools and data analytics to perform rigorous assessments of regulatory, market, and operational risks. This includes evaluating the practical effectiveness of e-licensing platforms, administrative consistency, and infrastructure quality across provinces, not just in formal terms but in day-to-day implementation. Secondly, building strong relationships with trusted Vietnamese legal and advisory firms is essential. These local experts offer in-depth insights into shifting regulatory interpretations, procedural nuances, and informal expectations. Their role is indispensable in translating formal regulations into effective operational strategies. Thirdly, robust ESG frameworks are no longer optional. Since 2021, ESG reporting has been mandatory for publicly listed companies. Broader disclosure requirements are under development, although a full timeline has yet to be announced. Nevertheless, proactive ESG monitoring ensures operational alignment with both current and emerging investor standards. Investors who commit to deeply embedding themselves in Vietnams institutional terrain, diligently understanding its unique blend of policy and evolving practice, consistently tend to outperform. Local insight, built through continuous engagement, remains a decisive asset for managing complexity and unlocking long-term opportunity. Vietnams momentum echoes the founding spirit of its economic reforms in the 1980s: pragmatic, forward-looking, and non-ideological. The country proactively constructs a more robust and credible institutional foundation, rather than merely responding to external pressure. While this evolution may temporarily lengthen some admin processes or demand new procedures, it simultaneously establishes the groundwork for something far more valuable: enduring institutional trust. This strategic pivot significantly enhances Vietnams capacity to attract and retain high-quality investment, crucial for sustainable economic development, technological advancement, and inclusive growth. As the country prepares for deeper integration into global regulatory systems, including the expansion of ESG disclosure frameworks, it communicates a clear and confident message to the world: Vietnam is not only open for business, it is committed to building institutions that can support its most ambitious economic goals. According to former Ba RiaVung Tau Peoples Committee, the former province recorded a significant surge in total registered capital during the first half of the year. Newly pledged and supplementary capital from both domestic and overseas sources reached approximately VND109 trillion (equivalent to $4.3 billion), up 66.47 per cent on-year. The Bien Hoa-Vung Tau expressway plays a vital role in regional connectivity Photo: Sun Group Foreign direct investment accounted for 60 per cent of the annual target, totalling $2.1 billion, while domestic capital constituted the remainder, fulfilling 93.8 per cent of the years plan. A total of 26 ventures were approved during this period, with most concentrated in key industrial zones such as Phu My, Chau Duc, and Long Son. Global industrial players including South Koreas Hyosung, Chinas BOE, Thailands SCG, and Swedens Trelleborg have already established or expanded operations in the area. Beyond manufacturing, coastal cities such as Vung Tau, Long Hai, and the rapidly growing Phu My are witnessing a boom in tourism and smart urban development. The influx of prominent developers is catalysing infrastructure upgrades and driving demand for residential, commercial, and hospitality land. Ba RiaVung Taus property market is also gaining momentum thanks to a wave of major infrastructure projects. These include the Bien HoaVung Tau Expressway, Phuoc An Bridge, a coastal route, and a proposed light rail line linking Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, and Ba RiaVung Tau a project initiated by Sun Group. These developments are expected to reduce travel times and fuel growth across the province. Further boosting the provinces appeal is the proposed Cai MepThi Vai Free Trade Zone. Located near Vietnams largest deep-sea port, this area is evolving into a regional hub for logistics, industrial facilities, and related services. The planned administrative merger of Ba RiaVung Tau with Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City is also accelerating local activity. In recent months, land prices in areas such as Hac Dich, Tan Phuoc, and Phuoc Hoa wards have increased by 2030 per cent since the start of the year, amid rising demand for well-planned residential plots. The integration of Binh Duong and Ba RiaVung Tau provinces into Ho Chi Minh City opens a new chapter of growth in the real estate sector with large-scale urban projects Photo: Five Star Group With multiple projects receiving preliminary approval from local authorities, Sun Group plans to develop a world-class resort and urban ecosystem spanning Vung Tau, Long Hai, and Go Gang Island. It has also proposed key infrastructure works, including a light rail system from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau, a bridge to Go Gang Island, an international cruise port, a world-standard hospital, and a beachfront plaza. According to Dr Nguyen Tri Hieu, a banking and finance expert, new capital is flowing into core growth centres including Ba Ria, Vung Tau, Phu My, Long Dien, and Long Hai. Ba RiaVung Tau is located within southern Vietnams economic growth corridor, serving as a maritime gateway for the entire southeast region. It benefits from strong connectivity for both domestic and international trade. The province still has ample land reserves to support residential, commercial, and industrial expansion. More importantly, land prices remain relatively affordable compared to other satellite cities surrounding Ho Chi Minh City, such as Binh Duong and Dong Nai, he said. A long-established tourism destination, Ba RiaVung Tau benefits from a convergence of favourable factors that position it as a future property hotspot for the broader southeast region. The province also holds significant advantages in seaport and aviation infrastructure. The Cai MepThi Vai deep-sea port cluster is one of the largest in the country, acting as a vital link in both the Moc Bai, Ho Chi Minh City, Bien Hoa, and Vung Tau economic corridor a well as the wider Trans-Asia corridor. This maritime gateway plays a pivotal role in attracting overseas funding and accelerating industrial development. As a result, the influx of professionals and workers into local industrial areas is creating rising demand for housing and commercial space. Meanwhile, the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport is expected to further enhance Ba RiaVung Taus appeal, consolidating its position as one of Vietnams most dynamic property markets. Son Huynh, co-founder, Civitas On July 1, a landmark resolution streamlined the countrys provincial level administrative units from 63 to a more agile 34. This decisive reform, the most significant administrative overhaul since reunification, marks a strategic shift towards smarter, more effective governance and promises to unlock unprecedented opportunities for urban development and real estate investment, particularly in major economic powerhouses like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang. For decades, Vietnams 63 provincial level units often led to fragmented planning, bureaucratic redundancy, and varying levels of administrative efficiency. The new resolution aims to address these challenges head on. By consolidating provinces and abolishing the district level, Vietnam is moving towards a unified two-tier local governance system: provincial level units (provinces and centrally governed cities) will act as the primary authority, directly overseeing commune level governance. This streamlined structure is designed to eliminate overlapping responsibilities, reduce bureaucratic layers, and foster more transparent reporting lines, ultimately leading to more responsive and efficient governance. The rationale is clear: a more cohesive administrative framework can better capture emerging opportunities in a rapidly evolving global economy. This restructuring is not merely about adjusting boundaries; it is about creating larger, more economically viable zones with enhanced appeal for infrastructure and industrial investment. The implications of this administrative reform for Vietnams real estate market and urban development are profound. The most immediate advantage is the emergence of larger, more competitive economic zones. Merging provinces allows for the combination of complementary strengths. For instance, land rich but cash poor province can merge with a more financially robust neighbour, enhancing capital efficiency and resource utilisation. This consolidation creates combined economic scales that are far more attractive to large-scale domestic and international investors, who are increasingly selective about their investment destinations. For the first time, digital assets have been referenced in recent legislative drafts, laying the groundwork for their legal recognition as a legitimate form of property and paving the way for transparent, sustainable market development. The regulatory landscape for innovation, especially within the digital asset space, was a central topic at an investment conference held in Hanoi two weeks ago, highlighting the governments intent to shape an enabling legal environment for the digital economy. According to Nguyen Khac Lich, director of the IT department under the Ministry of Science and Technology, around 10 laws related to innovation and digital technology are either in development or have already been passed, forming a comprehensive legal framework for the digital economy. In the short term, the Law on the Digital Technology Industry, with detailed provisions on digital assets, will lift an estimated 21 million Vietnamese holders of these assets out of the legal grey zone. It formally classifies digital assets as a form of property under civil law, protected on par with physical assets, Lich said. Among the laws that have already been adopted are the Law on the Digital Technology Industry, the Law on Data, and the Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation. In addition, four others are currently under review or in the early stages of implementation. The Law on the Digital Technology Industry, passed in June, is set to take effect in January 2026. Under the law, digital assets are recognised as civil property defined in digital form, created, issued, stored, transferred, and authenticated using digital technology in an electronic environment. The move is expected to establish a critical foundation for a more transparent and robust digital asset market in Vietnam. According to blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis, Vietnam ranks among the worlds top countries for cryptocurrency adoption, with 17 per cent of the population engaging in digital asset transactions, 3-4 times the global average. Annual inflows into the market have surpassed $100 billion, reflecting the sectors considerable untapped potential. Mai Huy Tuan, CEO of SSI Digital, said the legislative recognition of digital assets is something Vietnams blockchain startup community has long awaited. In the past, startups were often forced to register legal entities in jurisdictions such as Singapore or Dubai to develop their products. Now, they can operate transparently within Vietnam, reduce compliance costs, and receive legal support domestically. This recognition also opens the door to international fundraising, global distribution of Vietnamese-developed digital assets, and new contributions to national tax revenue, he said. Phan Duc Trung, chairman of tech firm 1Matrix, noted that Vietnams digital asset market was previously dominated by offshore service providers and informal fundraising activities that lacked transparency. Today, the landscape has expanded well beyond small tech startups, attracting major players such as Techcombank, Techcom Securities, Vingroup, Masan, and HDBank, Trung said. With the legal framework in place, capital mobilisation will become public, legally protected, and more accessible, reducing investor risk and creating opportunities for credible domestic ventures. From a global perspective, Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, emphasised blockchains role in combating money laundering due to its traceability, with illicit flows accounting for just 0.02 per cent of global transactions. Binance remains the worlds largest digital asset exchange, processing more than $90 billion in daily transactions and serving over 280 million registered users, with a global market share exceeding 41 per cent. Vietnam is emerging as a critical node in the global digital asset economy, and will play a pivotal role in the next wave of financial innovation, including Web3, AI, stablecoins, and tokenised assets, Teng said. According to a joint report by Boston Consulting Group and ADDX Singapore, the global digital asset market surpassed $2 trillion by mid-2025 and is projected to reach $16.1 trillion by 2030. Amid this growth, governments from around the world are competing to regulate and harness the sector. Singapore, China, and members of the European Union are piloting central bank digital currencies as part of a broader push to manage digital value flows. In parallel, jurisdictions such as Singapore and Switzerland have launched sandboxes to enable small businesses to raise capital legally through tokenised securities. Real estate is also undergoing tokenisation. In markets like the US, UAE, and Germany, investors can now buy fractional ownership in property for just a few hundred US dollars, enabled by digital asset infrastructure. In the carbon credit space essential for achieving net-zero goals regions including Europe, China, and South Korea are piloting blockchain-based platforms to ensure transparency, traceability, and global interoperability. The Vietnam Blockchain Association reports that more than 1,000 blockchain firms have been established over the past five years, many of which have used token-based models to raise capital from global communities. Vietnams digital asset market is projected to reach $2.9 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of around 21.5 per cent, according to Statista. Vietnam legalises digital and crypto assets Vietnam legalised digital and cryptoassets in the Law on Digital Technology Industry passed by the National Assembly on June 14. Digital assets finally go legal for Vietnam The official legal recognition of cryptoassets presents both an opportunity to accelerate the growth of the digital tech market and a challenge in mitigating potential related disputes. The stock market in Vietnam had risen close to 1,500 points by the end of June, but the pace of change has left many investors struggling to keep up. At the Investor Day 2025 seminar hosted by Dragon Capital on July 12, experts noted that while the market is showing momentum, some financiers have yet to see the full picture. Marking 25 years of capital market development Vietnam Investment Review will host a high-level roundtable called Driving Forces Behind New Capital Inflows to commemorate 25 years of Vietnams stock market. Taking place on July 23 at VIRs headquarters (47 Quan Thanh Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi), the roundtable will bring together key stakeholders including policymakers, business leaders, investment professionals, and media representatives. The event will explore macroeconomic trends, shifts in domestic and foreign capital flows, and actionable strategies to unlock new financial momentum. As Vietnam enters a new chapter of national development, shaped by deepening reforms and global integration, the capital market is set to play a pivotal role in sustaining growth and enabling transformation. Le Anh Tuan, chief investment officer at Dragon Capital, observed that since 2007, Vietnams development path leaned heavily on foreign capital and the presence of multinational corporations. This approach, centred around external investment, enabled labour to move into higher-productivity sectors, while boosting capital accumulation and enhancing workforce quality. However, from this year, Tuan pointed to a strategic pivot in which growth will increasingly be driven by internal forces. He underscored the importance of developing domestic industrial clusters and fostering core national competitive advantages as key pillars of this new direction. Vietnam must now prioritise improving the competitiveness of domestic enterprises, said Tuan. This is not just a policy shift, it is fundamental to the countrys long-term development prospects. This change in approach reflects a broader commitment. As Dragon Capital noted, the Politburo has set a target of integrating at least 20 Vietnamese enterprises into global value chains. For the first time, the private sector is being tasked with executing national objectives, in alignment with government direction. This unprecedented level of public-private coordination represents a notable departure from previous policy cycles. The country is stepping into a new investment cycle, supported by both steady economic growth and a clearer push from the political system. With the government becoming more streamlined, better coordinated, and more decisive, reforms are moving faster. This stronger alignment across different levels of leadership is helping to create a more stable and attractive environment for long-term investment, Tuan explained. While the speed of these reforms has raised some concerns, many experts believe such steps are necessary to improve efficiency and support the countrys long-term goals. Complementing this administrative overhaul is an acceleration in legislative activity. Over the past year, the volume of laws and decrees issued has surpassed the combined total from the preceding three years. New legal tools, including specialised mechanisms, are enabling the government to address long-standing bottlenecks without having to wait for sweeping statutory amendments. A significant step is a resolution granting the government the authority to resolve regulatory and legal impasses in delayed projects. If effectively implemented, this could unlock nearly 2,900 stalled projects with a combined value of $235 billion. The scale of capital that could be released into the economy is enormous, remarked Dang Nguyet Minh, head of research at Dragon Capital. As Vietnam accelerates structural reforms, its capital market is moving closer to a long-anticipated upgrade from frontier to emerging market status. While this goal has been on the agenda for over a decade, occasionally leading to investor fatigue, recent developments suggest that the process is now gaining real traction. A multi-agency initiative is being implemented, led by the Ministry of Finance, the State Bank of Vietnam, the Vietnam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation, and the State Securities Commission. The coordinated roadmap prioritises regulatory improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and closer engagement with international credit rating agencies and global financial institutions. If successful, the upgrade could pave the way for a new wave of initial public offerings in the 2026-2027 period. Market projections indicate that total listings could reach $47.5 billion, with consumer-focused firms expected to contribute around $12.8 billion. According to Vu Thi Chan Phuong, chairwoman of the SSC, Vietnams stock market has achieved tangible progress in both market capitalisation and product quality, and is increasingly playing a vital role in channelling medium- and long-term capital into the economy. Upgrading the market is among the most effective tools to attract these flows, said Phuong. Actual experience of foreign investors in Vietnam will play a decisive role in how global rating agencies evaluate the country. Once issues resolved, investor experience becomes the deciding factor, because they, in effect, cast the vote for our upgrade. Starting July 1, Ho Chi Minh City officially transitioned to a two-tier government model, integrating its development space with neighbouring Binh Duong and Ba RiaVung Tau. Merger sets stage for south property boom This marks a historic milestone, paving the way for a regional mega-city with an economic scale exceeding VND 2.7 quadrillion (approx. $110 billion), equivalent to nearly one-quarter of Vietnams GDP. Amid this transformation, the real estate market, particularly in the northeastern corridor of Ho Chi Minh City, is seeing strong momentum. The apartment segment, in particular, is emerging as a magnet for investors, contributing to a more modern and liveable urban landscape, according to Dr. Can Van Luc, a member of the Prime Ministers Economic Advisory Council. Speaking at a July 12 seminar on the topic, Luc said that Ho Chi Minh City now holds rare advantages and opportunities to become a modern, regional and international mega-city. The city boasts the largest population and land area in the country, accounting for about 2 per cent of Vietnams territory and 13.5 per cent of its population. It is positioned as the nations leading economic, financial, industrial, and technological hub, Luc said. Simultaneously, the city is making major investments in multimodal and modern infrastructure. A range of key projects, including metro lines, Bus Rapid Transit systems, expressways, and high-speed rail, are taking shape, forming a comprehensive and highly connected transportation network at local, regional, and international levels. In addition to transport infrastructure, Ho Chi Minh City is also accelerating the development of new urban areas aimed at supporting a multi-centered urban model. With its combined strengths in scale, policy direction, economic capacity, infrastructure, and technology, Ho Chi Minh City is on the cusp of a powerful breakthrough, well-positioned to become a premier mega-city and the dynamic growth engine of the nation, Luc stated. Poised for growth leap According to Nguyen Van Dinh, vice chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors, the merger is expected to catalyse a new growth phase in the real estate market, marked by the emergence of large-scale, high-quality projects. The product structure is also set to diversify and adapt to a reshaped and growing market. This transition is seen as a window of opportunity for both domestic and foreign investors, Dinh said. Currently, Ho Chi Minh Citys population has surpassed 14 million. Post-merger, the regional economy is expected to contribute roughly one-third of state budget revenue and over one-fifth of Vietnams total import-export turnover. These impressive figures not only underscore the citys role as an economic locomotive but also provide a psychological boost for market confidence, Dinh said. However, the benefits of the merger will not be evenly distributed. Only areas with solid foundations in infrastructure, economic activity, and population attraction will see a meaningful impact. The northeastern region of the city stands out as a key beneficiary. As regional restructuring and master planning expand, northeast Ho Chi Minh City is undergoing visible transformation. The industrial real estate segment is being restructured to meet modern standards, thereby attracting foreign investment and forming clusters of skilled labour, professionals, and engineers. This is driving demand for high-quality housing. However, good infrastructure alone doesnt guarantee successful real estate investments, Dinh added. In a market entering a phase of significant filtering, selecting the right project is essential not only for capital safety but also for long-term profitability. With abundant land reserves, the area is expected to host master-planned residential projects with transparent legal frameworks, green features, smart technologies, and premium amenities. According to Dinh, the apartment segment is poised to lead the market in the near future, particularly mid- to high-end apartments catering to affluent residents in emerging financial and high-tech hubs. Southbound migration The merger comes at a time when the northern real estate market has passed its peak growth phase and is showing signs of saturation in investor appetite. This has triggered a noticeable southward shift among major real estate brokerages and investors from northern Vietnam. Many are eyeing large-scale apartment projects with integrated infrastructure and planning, especially in the citys northeastern region. This southbound trend not only affirms Ho Chi Minh Citys economic leadership but also reflects the growing appeal of real estate projects priced according to intrinsic value. Many investors have already positioned themselves to ride the next market wave, recognising the long-term potential of the northeast Ho Chi Minh City market. According to data from batdongsan.com.vn, as of March, up to 66 per cent of Hanoi residents surveyed expressed interest in the southern real estate market. Outlying areas and satellite markets of Ho Chi Minh City, such as the former provinces of Binh Duong, Long An, Dong Nai, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau, are drawing increasing attention from Hanoi-based property seekers. Among the segments most favoured by Hanoians in their southbound investment trend, apartments lead with 75 per cent of respondents expressing interest, followed by townhouses/shophouses and land plots (both at 53 per cent), standalone houses (39 per cent), villas (29 per cent), and resort properties (28 per cent). According to Dinh Minh Tuan, southern director of batdongsan.com.vn, key drivers behind this shift among northern investors include the high growth potential of southern markets, relatively reasonable pricing, the availability of new high-quality developments. Moreover, the fact is that real estate prices in Hanoi and surrounding areas have risen to unsustainably high levels and become unaffordable for end-users and reduce the profit for speculators, Tuan said. Bui Van Doanh, director of the Vietnam Real Estate Research Institute, also pointed out the key difference between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, was the rate. Hanois real estate prices have soared in recent years, reaching very high levels, up to VND200 million ($7,600) per sq.m. In contrast, prices in northeastern Ho Chi Minh City, including former Binh Duong, remain in the VND50 million ($1,900) range, making them highly reasonable under current conditions, Doanh cited. This price gap leads to a second critical difference: liquidity. Lower prices mean easier access, greater affordability, and faster sales turnover, making the market more liquid and dynamic, he added. Blog Archive: Aug 2025 (135) Jul 2025 (155) Jun 2025 (150) May 2025 (155) Apr 2025 (9) Mar 2025 (149) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) New facilities from big names are demonstrating their belief in Vietnams investment environment, Le Toan Swire Coca-Cola last week inaugurated its manufacturing plant in the southeast province of Tay Ninh.With a total investment of $136 million and a production capacity of one billion litres of beverages per year, this is not only Coca-Colas largest facility in Vietnam but also the first food and beverage plant in the country to achieve LEED Gold certification for green building standards. Beyond investing in infrastructure, this plant reflects our dedication to sustainable development and our aspiration to make meaningful contributions to the communities we call home across Vietnam, said Milly Cheng, general director of Coca-Cola Vietnam. According to Cheng, the inauguration of the Tay Ninh plant marks a significant milestone in Coca-Colas journey in Vietnam. This state-of-the-art facility, blending innovation and sustainability, demonstrates our strong belief in Vietnams immense growth potential and our long-term investment commitment here, she added. Coca-Cola is not the only one with confidence in Vietnams market potential. Lego Group from Denmark inaugurated its $1.3 billion factory in Binh Duong (now part of Ho Chi Minh City) in early April, while Syre Group from Sweden recently invested $1 billion in a project in Binh Dinh, now incorporated into Gia Lai province. Likewise, in early June, Jeffrey Perlman, CEO of Warburg Pincus, met with Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien and reaffirmed his firms long-term investment commitment to Vietnam while advocating for stronger Vietnam-US bilateral economic and trade relations. Such commitments from numerous investors explain why Vietnams foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows remain robust. In the first six months of the year, registered FDI reached nearly $21.52 billion, a 32.6 per cent increase compared to the same period last year - the highest since 2009. Disbursed FDI amounted to $11.72 billion, the highest for the first half of any year in the past five years. These figures as evidence of Vietnams success in attracting foreign investment, said Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Tam at the Coca-Cola plant inauguration. While concerns about tax policies are real and may cause some foreign investors to be cautious in disbursing funds, particularly for large-scale, long-term projects, Vietnam retains significant advantages in the global race to attract FDI. These include a favourable investment and business environment and, most importantly, the Vietnamese governments commitment to supporting investors. In addition, at Techcombanks International Investment Conference 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc stated, The government is committed to accompanying both domestic and foreign investors. We call on investors to actively invest in Vietnam, particularly in high-tech, energy, processing, services, and financial investment sectors. To sustain the momentum in attracting major foreign investors, the Ministry of Finance is proactively implementing several solutions within its authority. These include developing tailored policies to promote high-potential economic zones such as Van Don and Van Phong, free trade zones, border economic zones, and regions outlined in various resolutions. Additionally, the ministry is urgently establishing national and provincial investment one-stop portals to streamline processes. It is also promptly addressing obstacles and recommendations for major foreign-led projects to expedite investment procedures and project progress. In a significant move to create breakthroughs in attracting FDI, the National Assembly has passed a resolution on establishment of international financial centres in Vietnam, effective from September 1 (see Page 9). To implement this, the MoF must issue decrees on the hubs and on capital-related matters. The Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) is requested to promptly prepare and report, said Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc. The FIA is likely to establish dedicated task forces to directly negotiate and support major corporations such as Nvidia and SK in investing in Vietnam, Ngoc added. It should proactively approach and invite potential investors in key sectors like high-tech, IT, and high-quality services, Deputy Minister Ngoc said. Efforts should also focus on creating a cohesive and robust system of preferential policies to prioritise investments in high-tech fields such as AI, smart supply chains, renewable energy, and green technology. Foreign-led enterprises have incentive for modern funding Foreign-led businesses are repositioning supply chains amid US tariffs changes, geopolitical tensions, and global supply chain volatility. For instance, 47 per cent of South Korean enterprises expand production to different areas, as shown in a recent report from the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The centre will expand access to professional certifications for the accounting and auditing community in Vietnam. This event marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between UEH and ACCA and affirms UEHs ongoing efforts to integrate international professional certifications into formal education. The goal is to enhance the competitiveness and quality of Vietnams accounting and finance workforce amid increasing integration and digital transformation. Speaking at the event, Assoc. Prof. Bui Quang Hung, vice president of UEH, emphasised, The establishment of the centre at UEH is a strategic step in our journey to standardise education quality in line with international benchmarks. It is designed not only for UEH students but also to serve the broader professional community in the region. This initiative forms a key part of the vocational education ecosystem that UEH is building, guided by modernity, flexibility, and global integration. Assoc. Prof. Bui Quang Hung, vice president of UEH. Photo: ACCA Vietnam ACCA is one of UEHs strategic partners. We are proud to have jointly launched the Sustainability Hub, an initiative that promotes the sustainable development of education in accounting and finance. These joint efforts will help solidify UEHs role as a pioneer in developing high-quality human resources to meet the demands of integration and sustainable growth, he added. Recognising the strong partnership between ACCA and UEH over the past decade, Pulkit Abrol, director of ACCA Asia-Pacific, noted that UEH has one of the largest numbers of ACCA students and alumni in the region, underscoring the universitys academic reputation and strong international outlook. The launch of the centre right on the UEH campus offers greater convenience for the universitys students and benefits ACCA learners across Ho Chi Minh City and nearby provinces. It will allow candidates to complete their foundational exams in a professional, modern, and globally standardised environment, he said. Pulkit Abrol, director of ACCA Asia-Pacific. Photo: ACCA Vietnam The UEH Centre for Education Testing (UEH-CET) has been authorised under ACCAs CBE License No. 2025/26 to deliver computer-based exams at both the Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills levels of the ACCA qualification. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, certified computer systems, and a highly professional operating team, the centre will provide an optimal environment for students and candidates to take their exams on campus. The partnership between UEH and ACCA, established in 2011, has continued to grow and evolve through internationally recognised training programmes, professional seminars, and capacity-building initiatives. Notable strategic directions include the launch of the Integrated Accounting Programme with ACCA certification at the UEH School of Business Faculty of Accounting, and the expansion of access to students across all UEH departments. The launch of the ACCA On-Demand Computer-Based Exam Centre at UEH. Photo: ACCA Vietnam In addition, the two institutions have co-developed the Sustainable Education Hub, offering training in international certificates related to sustainable development, financial reporting, data analytics, and digital technology applications in accounting and finance. With a clear roadmap and long-term vision, ACCA and UEH continue to affirm their role as pioneers in training elite accounting and finance students, and nurturing future global citizens. SAV and ACCA join forces to elevate banking workforce As Vietnam integrates further with the global financial system, an internationally qualified workforce has become a pivotal need for the banking sector to maintain competitiveness and long-term sustainability. ACCA expert weighs in on Vietnam's proposed Budget Law reforms The draft amendment to the State Budget Law currently under parliamentary discussion promises to streamline budget allocation and settlement processes. Mike Suffield, director of Policy and Insights, ACCA spoke to VIRs Vy Vy to give his view. Global trade uncertainties take centre stage at ACCA forum As global trade volatility persists, experts at a Hanoi seminar stressed how critical strategic foresight, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration are for nations and businesses to adapt, capitalise on emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. ACCA and University of London launch honours pathway for aspiring accountants The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and the University of London launched of a new BSc (Hons) professional accountancy course on May 28. ACCA revamps training for digital and sustainable era The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has announced a significant redesign of its globally recognised ACCA Qualification, aligning with the expanding role of accountants amid rapid digital transformation and the growing emphasis on sustainability and ethics across both public and private sectors. On July 22, the Administration of Maternal and Childrens Affairs under the Ministry of Health signed an MoU with Roche Vietnam (Pharma and Diagnostics) to jointly develop a National Action Plan for breast and cervical cancer prevention. The move reflects a shared commitment to strengthening early detection, treatment, and long-term care for women across the country. The agreement aims to enhance access to timely, effective, and high-quality screening, diagnosis, and treatment services for breast and cervical cancer. The partnership is working towards developing a comprehensive, evidence-based National Action Plan designed to support long-term improvements in public health and contribute to broader social outcomes. According to the comprehensive global cancer dataset GLOBOCAN 2022, breast cancer is the foremost malignancy among the female population both globally and within Vietnam. Vietnam registers approximately 24,600 new cases and over 10,000 mortalities annually from breast cancer. At the same time, Vietnam also reports more than 4,600 new cases with over 2,500 fatalities attributable to cervical cancer annually. The ramifications of this challenge extend far beyond the individual, creating significant socioeconomic strain for both families and the wider community. Speaking at the signing, Dinh Anh Tuan, director of the Administration of Maternal and Children's Affairs, Ministry of Health, said, "The Administration of Maternal and Childrens Affairs fully recognises the critical importance of formulating a national action plan to improve the efficacy of screening, diagnosis, treatment, and management of breast and cervical cancer. This deal represents a significant milestone and the inception of our joint efforts to build and complete the plan." "We are confident that upon its issuance, this plan will provide a robust professional foundation and a guiding compass for all coordinated, cross-sectoral activities, for mobilising resources, and for enhancing the capabilities of our healthcare system. Ultimately, this will ensure timely and equitable access to healthcare for every woman in our nation," he added. In the same vein, Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Tri Thuc said, "The government has rolled out two major strategies aimed at improving public health. One focused on overall healthcare and another targeting cancer, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and other chronic conditions. Within these strategies, cancer prevention and control is a key component. The Ministry of Health has also released detailed plans to implement these strategies, aiming to reduce the incidence of various cancers, especially breast and cervical cancer." "Therefore, the signing of the MoU is highly significant for prevention, early detection, and screening to minimize the incidence of these cancers and their consequences," added Thuc. The collaboration will focus on supporting the development and dissemination of the National Action Plan for Breast Cancer. This includes the formulation of evidence-based clinical guidelines for breast cancer screening. A pilot scheme will be implemented in a selected locality to evaluate its practical applicability. This will serve as a crucial foundation for future nationwide replication across other provinces and cities. According to Lennor Carrillo, general manager of Roche Pharma Vietnam, "Roche has been a dedicated partner in Vietnam since 2013, tirelessly working to improve breast cancer early detection and access to innovative therapies. We are immensely proud to bring this long-standing partnership to the next level with the Ministry of Health on this pivotal National Action Plan." Lennor Carrillo, general manager, Roche Pharma Vietnam Meanwhile, Roche Diagnostics Vietnam will continue working closely with the Administration of Maternal and Childrens Affairs to advance evidence-based screening and diagnostics. The company will also maintain its support for a project that delivers reproductive health counselling and services to workers in industrial and export processing zones. Ricky He, general manager of Roche Diagnostics Vietnam, said, "Roche aims to empower women through innovative diagnostic solutions, ensuring access to timely and accurate screening. The company is committed to supporting the elimination of cervical cancer in Vietnam a preventable and treatable disease when detected early by contributing its global and regional expertise to the National Action Plan. Roche believes that science, combined with strong partnerships and sustained investment in health systems, can drive real-world impact and improve womens health across Vietnam." Roche's decade-long commitment to improving women's health in Vietnam For Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Vietnamese Women's Day, Lennor Carrillo, general director of Roche Pharma Vietnam spoke with VIR's Thanh Van on Roche's 10 years of partnership for a healthier future for women, focusing on breast cancer care and raising awareness through free screenings and informative programmes. Bright Future Fund and Roche launch 2023 breast cancer awareness campaign On October 19, the Bright Future Fund, in collaboration with Roche Pharma Vietnam, celebrated the kick-off event for "Joining hands for the women I love" campaign 2023 to raise awareness about breast cancer and improve womens health. Son Huynh, co-founder of Civitas On July 1, a landmark resolution streamlined the countrys provincial level administrative units from 63 to a more agile 34. This decisive reform, the most significant administrative overhaul since reunification, marks a strategic shift towards smarter, more effective governance and promises to unlock unprecedented opportunities for urban development and real estate investment, particularly in major economic powerhouses like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang. For decades, Vietnams 63 provincial level units often led to fragmented planning, bureaucratic redundancy, and varying levels of administrative efficiency. The new resolution aims to address these challenges head on. By consolidating provinces and abolishing the district level, Vietnam is moving towards a unified two-tier local governance system: provincial level units (provinces and centrally governed cities) will act as the primary authority, directly overseeing commune level governance. This streamlined structure is designed to eliminate overlapping responsibilities, reduce bureaucratic layers, and foster more transparent reporting lines, ultimately leading to more responsive and efficient governance. The rationale is clear: a more cohesive administrative framework can better capture emerging opportunities in a rapidly evolving global economy. This restructuring is not merely about adjusting boundaries; it is about creating larger, more economically viable zones with enhanced appeal for infrastructure and industrial investment. The implications of this administrative reform for Vietnams real estate market and urban development are profound. The most immediate advantage is the emergence of larger, more competitive economic zones. Merging provinces allows for the combination of complementary strengths. For instance, land rich but cash poor province can merge with a more financially robust neighbour, enhancing capital efficiency and resource utilisation. This consolidation creates combined economic scales that are far more attractive to large-scale domestic and international investors, who are increasingly selective about their investment destinations. Mitigating issues One of the persistent challenges in Vietnams urban development has been fragmentation in planning across provincial boundaries. Administrative restructuring enables unified, large-scale planning across critical sectors such as transport, urban development, and industrial parks (IPs). This reduces fragmentation and facilitates more efficient execution of interprovincial infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and waste treatment facilities. For real estate, this means more cohesive master plans, better integrated infrastructure, and a clearer long-term vision for development, reducing uncertainty for investors. Provinces will have the foundation to delineate zones clearly, facilitating the development of specialised IPs or clusters, such as those for supporting industries or specific sectors like automotive and semiconductors. With expanded administrative boundaries, provinces can plan more large-scale IPs and urban areas, offering a wider array of business options. This increased availability of land will mitigate industrial land shortages in high-demand localities, providing domestic and international enterprises greater access to suitable sites for establishing factories. For urban development, this translates into larger land banks for modern projects that might be difficult to implement in land constrained inner-city areas. This opens up opportunities for diverse real estate segments, from industrial and logistics to residential and commercial. In addition, the restructuring is expected to drive significant demand for upgraded transport, utilities, logistics, and digital infrastructure in newly merged areas. This infrastructure push directly underpins real estate development, making previously remote areas more accessible and viable for investment. The effects of this reform will be particularly pronounced in Vietnams major economic hubs, which are already experiencing rapid urbanisation and outward expansion. Ho Chi Minh Citys adjusted master plan to 2040, with a vision to 2060, already envisions its transformation into a global, civilised, modern, and compassionate city, serving as an economic, financial, and service hub for Asia. The provincial mergers directly support Ho Chi Minh Citys ambition to integrate with neighbouring provinces like Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau, forming a unified mega-region. Among these, the Ring Road 4 as a catalyst. The recently approved Ring Road 4, a 207km regional beltway with a massive investment, is a prime example of infrastructure enabling this integration. This expressway connects major manufacturing hubs with critical logistics gateways. This direct linkage will supercharge industrial, manufacturing, and logistical capacities, drastically cut operational costs and attracting new investment flows. Ring Road 4 is crucial for Ho Chi Minh Citys multi-centred urban model, which divides the city into six distinct urban sub zones. These sub zones, each with specialised functions, will be seamlessly connected by the new road, fostering self-sufficient living basins and alleviating central core congestion. A real presence Expanding the capital region Hanoi, as the nations capital, is also undergoing significant urban expansion, with its own Ring Road 4 project commencing in 2023, connecting it to neighbouring provinces like Bac Giang, Hung Yen, and Bac Ninh. The provincial mergers will further accelerate urbanisation in the Capital Region, which includes nine surrounding provinces. The mergers will accelerate the development of satellite cities around Hanoi, which have already emerged as vibrant investment destinations due to improved infrastructure and abundant land reserves. Former provinces like Vinh Phuc, Hung Yen, and Ha Nam can provide large land banks for modern urban projects that are difficult to implement in land constrained inner-city Hanoi. In transportation, key projects like Ring Road 3, Ring Road 4, and interprovincial expressways will more effectively connect the core region with peripheral areas, making it increasingly convenient to live in neighbouring provinces while working in Hanoi. In real estate dynamics, property prices in the capital regions provinces are currently significantly lower than in Hanoi, creating a dual opportunity for both investors and homebuyers. While Danang itself is a centrally governed city and may not undergo direct mergers, the principle of provincial consolidation applies to its surrounding regions, creating larger, more viable economic entities that will enhance its regional role. For instance, the merger of Khanh Hoa and Ninh Thuan provinces to establish the new Khanh Hoa province, and Gia Lai with Binh Dinh, offers significant opportunities. The new Khanh Hoa, bordering Dak Lak, Lam Dong, and the East Sea, is poised for a boost in tourism and resort real estate, particularly in land and apartment segments. Similarly, the new Gia Lai, endowed with both mountains and coastline, shows greater potential for resort, industrial, logistics, and large scale urban real estate development, leveraging the combined value of sea, forest, and highlands. While the advantages are compelling, the implementation of such a sweeping reform is not without its complexities. Short-term business discomfort may arise due to changing points of contact and potential misalignment in merged localities. Investors may face temporary delays in administrative processes, and the need to harmonise local regulations, tax incentives, and land use policies across newly merged provinces will be a significant undertaking. There is also a risk of contractual and land use uncertainty as existing agreements come under review. However, these challenges also present a major opportunity to rebuild a more transparent and efficient regulatory framework. The governments top priority will be transparent communication and ensuring that administrative restructuring serves as a transformative springboard towards a more consistent, fair, and efficient investment environment. Vietnams decision to streamline its provincial structure is a bold declaration of its commitment to modernising governance for the digital age and enhancing competitiveness. By creating larger, more integrated economic zones, facilitating unified planning, and accelerating infrastructure investment, this reform is set to unlock unprecedented opportunities across the real estate market and urban development landscape. Depository receipts are becoming an essential tool. Not just for expanding access to international capital markets, but also for helping Vietnamese businesses enhance their visibility and competitiveness on the global financial stage. At the same time, they offer global investors a more convenient gateway to Vietnamese companies. In a seminar to discuss the innovative opportunities of depository receipts for Vietnamese stock investors on July 21 in Hanoi, Vu Chi Dung, head of the Legal and International Cooperation Department under the State Securities Commission (SSC) noted that in todays increasingly globalised world, promoting overseas securities offerings and listings particularly through mechanisms such as depository receipts is no longer optional but a strategic imperative. "Vietnam has established a solid legal foundation to develop overseas offerings and listings, including depository receipts, professionally," said Dung. For instance, the Law on Securities 2019 provides the legal basis for Vietnamese issuers to offer securities abroad, or Circular No.119/2020/TT-BTC issued by the Ministry of Finance outlines regulations on the transfer of securities ownership in connection with the issuance or cancellation of depository receipts. This legal framework lays the groundwork for a methodical and professional expansion of international securities offerings, including depository receipts. "The SSC will continue to improve the regulatory framework while working closely with international financial institutions, major global stock exchanges, and industry experts to support Vietnamese businesses in their global outreach efforts," said Dung. The goal is to ensure that the process of issuing and listing depository receipts is smooth, transparent, and effective. Dung also highlighted that as Vietnam deepens its integration into the global economy and aims to upgrade its stock market classification from frontier to emerging, the potential for growth in this area is substantial. According to Nguyen Quang Thuong, deputy CEO of Vietnam Exchange (VNX), Vietnam has already built the legal foundation for issuing and listing depository receipts based on Vietnamese stocks abroad. Some initial successes have also been recorded, such as Vietnamese depository receipts have already been issued and traded on the Thai market. "In the reverse direction, the issuance of depository receipts for foreign stocks in Vietnam still lacks a clear regulatory framework. A comprehensive legal corridor therefore is needed to implement this model, meet domestic investor demand, and diversify investment products," said Thuong. Thuong proposed that regulators consider adding legal provisions for the issuance and listing of depository receipts leveraging foreign stocks in the Vietnamese market. He also recommended more support for training courses and specialised seminars tailored for securities firms and investors. Also at the seminar, Bernice Tan, vice president of Securities Trading at Singapore Exchange (SGX), said that cross-listed depository receipts can leverage existing market infrastructure to facilitate liquidity connectivity across ASEAN markets. According to Tan, "Depository receipts benefit the domestic financial ecosystem by broadening access for retail investors, intermediaries, and issuers. They also help stimulate liquidity both in the home market and in the underlying market." "To improve investor awareness, we work through the SGX Academy and our research resources, as well as partnership with platforms that engage issuers of underlying securities for Singapore Depository Receipts (SDRs). We also host regular seminars spotlighting SDR-underlying companies," she added. "Furthermore, we utilise local media, financial platforms, and key opinion leaders to publish commentary on these underlying companies." Looking ahead, the VNX plans to deepen its bilateral cooperation with SGX, focusing on sharing experience in developing new financial products and technologies, as well as co-launching depository receipts based on Vietnamese stocks on the Singapore market. Globally, the depository receipt model has been effectively deployed in countries, such as the United States, the UK, and Singapore. These tools have helped local companies access international capital markets, boost transparency, and adopt higher standards of corporate governance. In Vietnam, although the concept of depository receipts is not entirely new, the market is still in its early development stages. Currently, only a limited number of Vietnamese enterprises meet the criteria for issuing and listing depository receipts abroad, primarily due to limitations in scale, as well as challenges related to accounting standards, information disclosure, and access to international capital markets. Vietnam steps into golden decade for innovation and private capital Amid global geopolitical turbulence, Vietnam is continuing to solidify its position as a strategic beacon in innovation and high-tech industries, poised to lead the next wave of growth in Asia by drawing a substantial influx of private capital. Real estate seeing global capital influx With a stronger legal system and new emerging segments, Vietnam is gradually cementing its position as an attractive destination for international real estate capital. Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong and the working group of the World Bank's DeMPA Deputy Minister of Finance Tran Quoc Phuong welcomed a delegation from the World Banks 2024 Public Debt Management Performance Assessment (DeMPA) at the ministrys headquarters in Hanoi on July 22. Led by lead debt specialist Lars Jessen, the delegation is collaborating with Vietnamese officials to review and strengthen the countrys debt management framework. DeMPA is a diagnostic tool developed by the World Bank to assess a country's debt management performance. It's a methodology that uses a comprehensive set of indicators to evaluate how effectively a country manages its public debt. The tool helps identify strengths and weaknesses in debt management practices, ultimately aiming to strengthen capacity and institutions for sustainable debt management. "The demand for domestic and foreign loans from the Vietnamese government for infrastructural development is huge, covering large projects like the North-South high-speed railway and other important transport projects," Phuong said. "Therefore, mobilising and effectively using public debt resources is crucial." Phuong said that Vietnam is currently revising its regulations on public debt management, making input and assessments from international organisations like the World Bank especially valuable. He added that relevant departments within the Ministry of Finance will closely examine and clarify legal frameworks related to public debt in the near future. Lars Jessen confirmed his participation in meetings between the DeMPA working group and Ministry of Finance units, where he will share international experience and provide consultation on improving public debt management including strategic tools, planning, data systems, and reporting and disclosure frameworks. He also presented an overview of the 2024 DeMPA assessment and acknowledged the World Banks recognition of Vietnams strong performance in managing public debt. "Vietnams overall debt management efficiency is considered strong, with notable improvements in the legal framework since the Public Debt Management Law was introduced in 2017, along with the implementation of supporting internal procedures," said Jessen. The World Bank highlighted several achievements in Vietnams public debt management, while also recommending improvements, such as enhancing transparency through regular reporting to the National Assembly and establishing a single, dedicated debt management agency. Public debt management picture clears towards 2025 Vietnams plan for borrowing and paying public debt has been revealed, and the budget landscape finalised for this year, with public debt set to stay within the permissible limit. Government looks ahead to financial security via debt plan Vietnams plan for borrowing and paying public debt for 2024 has been revealed, with public debt set to stay within the permissible limit and ensure the nations financial security. Public debt plan laid out towards 2026 Vietnams scheme for borrowing and paying public debt has been outlined, with diverse sources of loans in the pipeline and public debt set to stay within the permissible limit. Vietnam Water Week 2025 is to take place in Hanoi from August 20-22 The week will showcase advanced technologies and fresh perspectives on a modern water sector, highlighting digital transformation. The event is expected to attract approximately 200 booths and the participation of 30 international organisations, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, which will provide opportunities for domestic and international water sector businesses to network, share technological experiences, and foster cooperation and trade promotion. Alongside the exhibition, Vietnam Water Week 2025 will feature four specialised workshops, including key discussions on addressing policy bottlenecks that lag behind practical needs. Additionally, a scientific workshop titled Advanced and Efficient Water Supply and Drainage Technologies will bring together experts, scientists, and lecturers from leading universities in the fields of water supply, drainage, and wastewater treatment. International organisations and units will also share experiences in applying the water supply and drainage technologies. Vietnam will look at infrastructure conditions to apply these devices and lessons learned. If infrastructure or policies are unsuitable, policymakers will develop standards to apply new technologies, said Nguyen Ngoc Diep, chairman of the Vietnam Water Supply and Sewage Association (VWSA). This years event will also see the return of the Gender Equality in the Water Sector workshop, aiming to promote specific solutions and actions to build gender equality in the workplace and support the activities of women leaders in the water sector. For the first time, Vietnam Water Week 2025 will host an online exhibition alongside the in-person event in Hanoi, marking a significant step towards digitalisation in the water sector. In collaboration with AROBID, a digital exhibition and B2B e-commerce platform, the VWSA will facilitate an online exhibition to enhance flexibility, 24/7 interaction, and trade. This integration underscores a strategic digital transformation, redefining the water sector from a traditional natural resource to a valuable digital asset unbound by spatial or temporal limits. Tran Van Chin, chairman of AROBID Technology JSC, highlighted the governments major policies, particularly those emphasising science and technology development, digital transformation, green economy, digital economy, and e-commerce. The adoption of an e-commerce ecosystem demonstrates VWSAs breakthrough goal of connecting water sector businesses domestically and internationally. AROBIDs platform ecosystem includes partners in banking, logistics, insurance, and finance. Participating businesses can engage directly at the exhibition while also interacting with suppliers on the e-commerce platform. Another advantage is that, typically, after traditional exhibitions or trade fairs, it takes considerable time for businesses to retrieve information about participants. However, with AROBIDs e-commerce platform, businesses' e-profile digital records are stored, enabling the business community to easily archive information for seamless connectivity and ongoing communication, Chin explained. Vietnam Water Week 2024 to be held from November 6-8 Vietnam Water Week 2024, themed Developing Vietnam's Water Sector - Security, Safety, Efficiency, and Integration, will be organised on November 6-8 at the National Exhibition Construction Centre in Hanoi. Vietnam Water Week 2024 attracts 150 booths from 15 countries Vietnam Water Week 2024 has attracted 150 pavilions displaying advanced and smart materials, equipment, and technology from 15 countries. Tran Huyen Dinh, chairman of the Fintech Application Committee under the Vietnam Blockchain Association (VBA) What opportunities and challenges has the Law on Digital Technology Industry opened up for Vietnams cryptoasset market since its promulgation in June? The National Assembly adopted the Law on Digital Technology Industry on June 14, marking a significant milestone in shaping the digital asset market in Vietnam. For the first time, concepts such as digital assets, virtual assets, and cryptoassets are clearly defined in the law, establishing a solid legal framework for an industry that is rapidly growing globally. This is not only a legal milestone but also a signal that Vietnam is indeed poised to unlock a potentially massive market, with estimates suggesting it could be worth hundreds of billions of dollars, as highlighted in reports by Chainalysis. The Law on Digital Technology Industry serves as a precursor to attracting foreign investment. A clear and transparent legal framework will provide international investors with more peace of mind when participating in the digital asset sector in Vietnam, which was a major barrier in the past. For businesses in the digital technology, fintech, and blockchain sectors, the law helps legitimise activities such as fundraising, international cooperation, company valuation, and the development of innovative products. More importantly, the law along with the strong support from the government demonstrates the strategic vision and consistent efforts of the government in building a cohesive legal ecosystem and developing high technology in a synchronised manner. However, to realise that potential, it is imperative to swiftly issue legal documents such as decrees and circulars for specific guidance under the law to ensure feasibility and consistency in enforcement. What impact will the new regulations have on blockchain businesses and digital asset projects, especially foreign projects planning to enter the Vietnamese market? Although the Law on Digital Technology Industry is a significant step forward in introducing concepts such as digital assets and cryptoassets into the legal framework for the first time, currently the law primarily focuses on definitions. In order to implement and promote new business models in practice, the market is in great need of legal guidance documents such as decrees and circulars to provide further clarification on licensing mechanisms, supervision, taxation, and compliance obligations. For foreign enterprises and international investors, Vietnam continues to be evaluated as one of the most promising markets in the APEC region, thanks to its young population, high technology adoption rate, and impressive digital economic growth. However, when approaching the market, legal factors remain a top concern. Therefore, we expect that the establishment of the international financial centre, combined with experimental policies such as the sandbox mechanism, will be a crucial catalyst in creating a safe, flexible, and innovative legal environment. When the new legal framework is applied, what issues should individual investors pay attention to in order to protect their rights and comply with the law? With the new legal framework, the rights of investors are strengthened more clearly, but at the same time, it also requires users to enhance their awareness and personal legal competence. First and foremost, users need to distinguish between legally recognised digital assets and anonymous products that are unlicensed or risky. Buying, holding, or investing in assets without clear authenticity carries the risk of capital loss and may also be linked to legal responsibilities. Secondly, it is important to prioritise the use of platforms, wallets, exchanges, and services that have been publicly tested or confirmed by authorised agencies or reputable organisations. In the near future, test bed or sandbox models will be implemented, and people should choose services within the controlled ecosystem to ensure safety. Thirdly, investors need to be cautious of high-profit models without technological or legal basis, especially multi-level fundraising models, self-issued tokens without a whitepaper, lack of transparency in pricing mechanisms, or source code auditing. With a clearer legal framework, participation in illicit activities will be strictly dealt with according to current laws. What specific proposals or actions does the VBA have to support the community in the context of the new legal framework being applied? In its policy advisory role, the VBA is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the State Bank of Vietnam, and specialised units to gather opinions and contribute to refining regulations for implementation under the law. The VBA and ABAII Institute are implementing a knowledge dissemination programme for four target groups: management agencies, businesses, schools, and the community. In terms of collaboration, the VBA is expanding connections with regulatory agencies, universities, tech companies, and international organisations to share experiences and resources. In the upcoming phase, the focus will be on sandbox testing, developing the digital financial ecosystem, blockchain talent resources, and investment connections. We are also collaborating with units such as the Government Cipher Committee to establish standards on security, infrastructure development. With the efforts of organisations like the VBA, the digital asset market in particular, and the overall digital economy of Vietnam, will seize the opportunity to develop in a transparent and modern manner, making Vietnam a centre for digital asset service development in the region. New regulations could help legitimise digital assets New regulations surrounding the pilot of a digital asset exchange will help legitimise crypto assets, entice institutional involvement, and foster regional innovation, opening up a new stream of investment to Vietnam. Vietnam legalises digital and crypto assets Vietnam legalised digital and cryptoassets in the Law on Digital Technology Industry passed by the National Assembly on June 14. VIR's editor-in-chief Pham Van Hoanh The July 23 roundtable in Hanoi discussed how local and foreign investors were viewing current market opportunities, and where the strong influx of new capital was coming from that had helped propel Vietnams stock market forward. It also examined what additional conditions were needed to make these capital flows stronger, more sustainable, and longer-term, thereby reinforcing the markets growth momentum. In his opening remarks, VIR's editor-in-chief Pham Van Hoanh said, "Vietnam's stock market has gradually become one of the most important capital mobilisation channels of the economy, and a financial investment land attracting numerous people, businesses, and organisations." While market participants are busy celebrating the meaningful 25th anniversary, Vietnams stock market has seen a surge in both trading volume and value, pushing the VN-Index past 1,500 since late June the highest level among ASEAN markets. "Could such impressive trading sessions be driven by new capital inflows, from investors who see fresh opportunities in a stock market full of potential?," suggested Hoanh. Hoanh emphasised that this was also a key moment for businesses and experts to offer guidance to policymakers, helping to improve governance transparency, enhance the markets appeal, attract more participants, and position Vietnams stock market as the countrys leading channel for capital mobilisation. Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi highlighted the 25-year journey of building and developing Vietnams stock market, including the establishment of a solid legal framework and a network of market participants with strong financial capacity, professional expertise, and proper qualifications. "The market has come a long way from just a few hundred investors in the early days to over 10 million accounts held by both domestic and foreign investors today," said Chi. "Stock market capitalisation now stands at more than 65 to 70 per cent of GDP a scale we can truly be proud of." The markets technical infrastructure has been steadily evolving of late. Two months ago, the new KRX IT system was launched to support the changing needs of the stock market. In parallel, updated payment and securities transfer systems have been implemented, laying the groundwork for the upcoming launch of a central counterparty clearing system to further enhance market operations. "The stock market should serve as a medium- and long-term channel for capital mobilisation, as well as a barometer of the economys health and business performance," Chi said. "After 25 years of development, the market has made meaningful progress on many fronts. Now is the time to consider how we can take it to the next level." The deputy minister stressed that in the current context, the financial and stock markets must develop by attracting medium- and long-term capital to meet investment demand and support the countrys large-scale infrastructure projects. Deputy Minister Chi outlined three key areas for discussion for the roundtable. First, he highlighted the need to improve the legal framework to support the markets next phase of development. He urged participants to identify and address regulatory bottlenecks that are holding back qualitative progress. Second, he called for solutions to expand the supply of high-quality listed companies those with strong fundamentals, large market capitalisation, and the ability to attract major investors. Third, Chi focused on market structure and infrastructure. He raised important questions about how to increase the participation of institutional investors, enhance financial literacy among individual investors, and gather input from market members to further development. "How can we accelerate the markets upgrade, maintain its global ranking, and continue improving it further?" he asked, noting that these are urgent issues requiring collective effort. Vietnam ready to reform and improve stock market Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang had a meeting with representatives of FTSE Russell on July 17 to discuss and assess Vietnam's capital markets for a potential reclassification. Driving forces set scene for capital market momentum Vietnam is entering a pivotal phase of economic transformation, with bold policy reforms and a renewed focus on domestic capacity building setting the stage for a capital market upgrade and long-term growth. Washoe County is hosting a "Budget101" meeting where locals will be able to learn about the decisions the county makes when balancing budgets. Right now Washoe County is facing a budget shortfall of $27 million. A few months back, the county introduced the Washoe Checkbook, which is a new online interactive tool for viewing revenue and expenditures across all county departments in near real-time. Clara Andriola, the Washoe County Commissioner for District Four, says, "During the day or night, you can go onto Washoe County's website and check out the checkbook to see where funds are coming in and expenses are coming out, and it's live and refreshes every 24 hours." Andriola explains the online budget to the public, showing how they use tax dollars for the community. She says Washoe County wants to continue to be transparent, and this is a way for them to do just that. Andriola explains how the budget can be complex, and they think this will give the public a view on the ins and outs of the budget itself. The Checkbook is an online resource that has all of Washoe County's expenses and funds in a format that aligns with the budget through all of the departments, designed as a tool to be able to allow the public to access what the budget looks like. Andriola mentions, "I think it will give everyone the opportunity to be part of the discussion; if they become inquisitive and they want to understand, they'll have that opportunity, but then they may actually be able to offer solutions, so I think it's really a collective conversation." During the meeting they intend on answering questions that were submitted by residents during the meeting. They will also be creating an FAQ sheet about the checkbook as well. Andriola adds, "Washoe County's commitment is that we have always been transparent and we always will be transparent." You can find the Washoe Checkbook by clicking the link here. Or if you missed the meeting, it was recorded, and you can access the video on Washoe County's YouTube channel. Government, regulators and leading pension providers came together for a roundtable (Tuesday, 22 July 2025), demonstrating the sectors shared ambition to deliver better outcomes for savers through a joined-up approach to Value for Money (VFM). The event marked the first public discussion of the Pound for Pound (4) initiative a pilot group of providers brought together by Peoples Pension, which includes Aviva, Smart Pension, TPT Retirement Solutions, L&G and NatWest Cushon, and supported by Australian firm SuperRatings. The initiative will explore how the UK pensions market can move beyond cost-based comparisons and instead assess performance through broader value-based metrics, understanding the practicalities of a process that will shift market conversations away from cost towards value. This is essential for the success of the Governments proposed approach laid out in the Pension Schemes Bill 2025. Hosted by the Minister for Pensions, Torsten Bell MP and chaired by Peoples Pension CEO Patrick Heath-Lay and Emma Douglas, Wealth Policy Director, Aviva, the roundtable included, the FCA, DWP, Pensions UK and a number of the Mansion House Accord[4] signatories, including the 4 Pilot group and Kirby Rappell, CEO of SuperRatings. Insights from Australias superannuation system were central to the session - highlighting how clear benchmarking, transparency and regulatory oversight have transformed member outcomes and understanding of value in Australia. The UKs 4 pilot draws on these lessons, providing anonymised benchmarking reports to UK schemes and assessing how qualitative and quantitative data can be used to meaningfully assess value. Participants at the roundtable agreed that now is the time to collaborate with Government, regulators and the wider industry all needing to play their part in defining and embedding a robust and fit for purpose VFM regime. Intended to inform the impending regulatory consultation on VFM metrics, the discussion focused on how lessons from Australia and insights from providers could inform regulatory thinking and support the development of the Pension Schemes Bill. Patrick Heath-Lay, CEO of Peoples Partnership, said: The Governments drive to evolve the pensions market and centre it on value is a significant step change. As a pension provider, shining a light on how we measure up on value in a transparent and consistent way is a major shift but one that we must all rightly embrace. This needs to be introduced in a well-planned and effective manner that aligns to Government reforms, enables effective regulatory oversight and most importantly instils greater confidence in the pension system for savers. We set up the 4 initiative to help inform this shift in focus from cost to value, and we are really encouraged by the shared appetite to collaborate and support this fundamental market change. Emma Douglas, Wealth Policy Director at Aviva, said: Getting the value for money framework right is an essential part of shifting the focus in workplace pensions from cost to value. The Pound for Pound initiative gives us the opportunity to test the key metrics in advance and to learn from this, as well as from the Australian experience. Zoe Alexander, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Pensions UK, said: Getting value for money for UK savers is a key driver for the UK pensions industry. The Pensions Schemes Bill will introduce new requirements across much of the sector. We know measuring it is complex. We need clarity and evidence to establish the most effective data points for this new framework to ensure savers get the biggest bang for their buck, and to avoid excessive red-tape reporting. Though no system is perfect, there's a lot to learn from our colleagues in Australia about their value for money outcomes regime and we look forward to testing this in the UK context. Carnage in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Suicide Blast Kills 13 Soldiers, Dozens Injured 2 At least 13 security personnel were killed and 24 others injured in a devastating suicide attack on Saturday in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, security sources confirmed. According to officials, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle of the Bomb Disposal Unit early in the morning in the Khaddi area of North Waziristan district. Among the injured are 14 civilians, including women and children, several of whom are in critical condition. At the time of the attack, a curfew had been imposed in the area due to ongoing military movements, the sources said. Security forces quickly launched a rescue and search operation following the blast. The militant group Usud al-Harb, a faction linked to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur network, claimed responsibility for the assault, which is being described as one of the deadliest attacks in North Waziristan in recent months. The incident has heightened concerns over deteriorating security and the resurgence of militant activity in the region. Maharashtra Nurses Stand Firm: Strike Continues Until Written Orders Are Issued 2 The indefinite strike by more than 30,000 nurses across Maharashtra entered its fifth day on Tuesday, as the Maharashtra State Nurses Association refused to end the agitation without official written orders from the government. This comes despite a high-level meeting with Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, where the government agreed in principle to key demands, including scrapping contractual appointments and upgrading the designation of nurses to nursing officers. However, the association has made it clear that the protest will continue until these assurances are formally notified and a follow-up meeting is held with the Commissioner of the Medical Education Department. The ongoing strike, which began on July 18, has received strong backing from the State Government Group-D (Class IV) Employees Federation. Core demands include the immediate cancellation of the contractual hiring process, 100% permanent recruitment, timely promotions to fill thousands of vacancies, and correction of long-pending salary anomalies under the Seventh Pay Commission. Nurses also expressed frustration over the states repeated neglect of two sets of recommendations submitted by the Bakshi Committee since 2017, which sought to resolve pay disparities among staff nurses, sister-in-charges, and nursing tutors. The strike has gained further momentum following the June 6, 2025, government circular announcing fresh contractual appointmentsa move that had previously triggered a 10-day strike in 2022 before being rolled back. Nurses argue that this latest development once again disrespects their dedicated service, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when they served as critical frontline workers. Three more people a man and two women are now charged in the horrific sex trafficking ring uncovered in Alabama. The allegations against the latest suspects one of whom is the mother of some of the victims include them using an animal shock collar on the childrens genitals, both as a form of punishment and for sexual pleasure, according to court documents made public Wednesday. China's large scientific facility attracts global scientists for cutting-edge research Xinhua) 09:39, July 23, 2025 BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The Synergetic Extreme Condition User Facility (SECUF), a major scientific infrastructure in Beijing's suburban district Huairou, has attracted scientists from multiple countries to conduct cutting-edge research with its exceptional experimental conditions. A recent conference based on SECUF was held in Huairou, bringing together over 50 foreign scientists from 13 countries and more than 100 Chinese scientists. SECUF, led and operated by the Institute of Physics (IOP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), is a comprehensive research infrastructure that integrates extreme experimental conditions such as ultralow temperatures, ultrahigh magnetic fields, ultrahigh pressures, and ultrafast optics. The facility has provided over 350,000 hours of experimental services to domestic and international research teams since its full trial operation began in early 2023, according to IOP. Chen Xianhui, an academician of CAS and a professor at the University of Science and Technology of China, said: "SECUF is like an 'all-rounder' in scientific research. Its integrated capabilities across multiple extreme conditions are rare globally. This 'one-stop' research platform offers unique support for fundamental studies." Cheng Jinguang, deputy director of IOP, said that the essence of SECUF lies in its "openness and sharing," which is completely consistent with the concept of international large-scale scientific facilities. Operating under international standards, SECUF opens global user applications twice a year. Proposals are reviewed and selected by a user committee, and all approved experiments are offered free of charge to global researchers. "SECUF allows us to conduct experiments that cannot be done in Europe," said Igor Vinograd, a young scientist from the Grenoble High Magnetic Field Laboratory in France's National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), adding that SECUF enables far more complex and time-intensive precision experiments. Yoshiya Uwatoko, a professor from University of Tokyo, affirmed SECUF's global standing. He said that SECUF is a world-class research facility vital to the international condensed matter physics community. Its stable high magnetic fields, combined with low-temperature capabilities and high-precision measurement systems, allow scientists to probe subtle quantum states under pressure. Its ability to maintain experimental conditions over extended periods is invaluable for pressure studies which have extremely high requirements for precise control and stability, Uwatoko said. "China has become a global leader in materials research and experimental infrastructure. Collaborating with Chinese institutions grants access to cutting-edge facilities like SECUF. Such partnerships accelerate discovery and foster long-term scientific exchange," he added. In 2024, IOP and the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids in Germany established the Joint Research Center for Quantum Materials and Physics under Extreme Conditions, leveraging SECUF's capabilities. Collaborative results have since been published in academic journals. "SECUF's hardware is outstanding and fully capable of supporting frontier research. What impressed me most was the team's execution efficiency -- from agreement signing to project implementation. This reflects exceptional scientific management professionalism," said Sergey Medvedev, a senior researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids. Ariando Ariando, a professor from the National University of Singapore, highlighted that China's advancements in physics over the past two decades -- both in research caliber and experimental facilities -- have been astounding. "SECUF's high-pressure and high-magnetic-field capabilities are precisely what our quantum research requires. We look forward to fruitful collaboration," he said. In February this year, SECUF passed national acceptance inspection and is now fully operational. To create a seamless "barrier-free" soft environment, it is making efforts to enhance its global accessibility include optimizing its English website, preparing comprehensive English manuals, and ensuring all facility signage includes English descriptions, according to IOP. As a new facility, the experimental hours of international users at SECUF currently account for 3 percent to 4 percent of the total hours. This proportion is planned to increase to 20 percent by 2030, transforming the facility into a broader global "scientific stage," said IOP. "We warmly welcome experts and scholars worldwide to conduct research here and share their valuable insights," said Fang Zhong, a CAS academician and director of IOP. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) Homewood police investigate after an altercation between a parent and daycare worker ended in shots fired about a block away. (AL.com) A Homewood daycare worker has been formally charged after police say a dispute between the woman and a parent ended in shots fired. Tamara Sasha Hughes, 28, of Hoover is charged with attempted murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle, according to Homewood police. Huges was booked into the Jefferson County Jail at 10:37 a.m. Wednesday. Her bonds total $30,000. The ordeal began Monday morning when a woman and her sister dropped a child off at ABC Daycare & Kindergarten on Columbiana Road. Police Sgt. Mark Trippe said the women got into an argument with Hughes because they were late for drop-off. The verbal altercation then turned physical, but others present broke it up. The women, with the child in tow, got into their vehicle and left, Trippe said. Hughes got into her vehicle and followed them. As they got to Carr Avenue near Green Springs Highway, only about a block away, witnesses told police the daycare employee fired multiple shots at the other vehicle. The shots were fired shortly after 9:15 a.m. Trippe described the incident as chaotic. Detectives and crime scene technicians recovered a bullet from the victims tire. Hughes was taken to police headquarters for questioning and held until formal warrants were issued. A north Alabama man is now facing capital murder charges after allegedly hitting a woman with her own vehicle before attempting to burn her body. In a press conference Wednesday, Florence Chief of Police Mike Holt and Lauderdale County District Attorney Chris Connolly updated the public on the murder case of 38-year-old Autumn Paige Strickland. Holt thanked the Florence community and said their continued involvement in the case made a massive difference. Press conference regarding the murder of Autumn Strickland that occurred May 18, 2025, in Florence, Alabama. Posted by Florence Alabama Police Department on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Connolly said the case was presented to a grand jury last week that decided to upgrade the charges against 28-year-old Logan Rogers. After a lot of consideration prosecutors have decided to seek the death penalty, Connolly announced Wednesday. We dont take that decision lightly, and we recognize the gravity of that decision, he said. ...We recognize the seriousness of what we are embarking on here. And that the death penalty is reserved for the most heinous of cases. And I would submit to you that this is one of those cases, Connolly continued. Strickland, who leaves behind a young daughter, was reported missing the weekend of May 17, and her remains were found on May 20 in a burn barrel on Rogers property. Charging documents against Rogers say Strickland was hit twice by a Kia Soul driven by the suspect. Video evidence supports that Logan Rogers struck the victim twice and that is act was intentional due to the location and manner in which it was carried out, Det. Justin Adams wrote in his criminal complaint. The killing happened in the 1600 block of North Wood Avenue in Florence in what investigators say was a chance meeting between the two. The detective wrote that Rogers struck Strickland with the car once, circled around and then hit her a second time. Thirty minutes later, video shows, Rogers returned to the scene with a pickup truck and put what investigators believe was Stricklands body into the vehicle. Stricklands cell phone was later found in the exact location that she was hit by the car, Adams wrote. Police arrested Rogers at his home in the 2200 block of North Wood Street. When asked by reporters if a motive had been made clear during the investigation, Connolly responded: Well theres pure evil. A trial date has not been set for the case as of July 23, Connolly said. Court records show Rogers was arrested earlier this year in Marion County on charges of making a terrorist threat and domestic violence involving his parents. Rogers reportedly was often violent toward his parents and threatened to kill them, records show. His mother obtained a protection from abuse order earlier this year, chronicling the threats and fear. I never know from one minute til the next how he will be, she wrote. The least little thing sets him off. Im physically and mentally traumatized. An Alabama child was killed in a dog attack in Chilton County. Sheriffs deputies were dispatched at 6:10 p.m. Tuesday to the reported attack in the area of County Road 147 near Calera. They arrived to find the 7-year-old boy seriously injured by one or more aggressive dogs, said Sheriff John Shearon. The child was taken to the hospital but died a short time later. Chilton County Animal Control was notified and responded to assist at the scene. Nine dogs were taken from the property Wednesday morning, Shearon said. The child lived on the property, as did the dog owner. The investigation is ongoing. Our hearts are broken for the child and the family affected by this unimaginable loss, Shearon said. We are fully committed to a thorough investigation to determine how this tragedy occurred and to help prevent anything like this from happening again. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. A combat veteran who was president of a Huntsville molecular diagnostics company is suing his former employer, alleging he was dismissed from his position after he disclosed having post traumatic stress disorder. Peter Carothers, the former president of Diatherix Laboratories, filed the federal lawsuit last week in Alabamas Northern District, alleging disability discrimination. In February, he also filed a claim against Diaxtherixs corporate parent, Eurofins USA. He is seeking back pay and lost benefits, compensatory damages and other relief. Diatherix develops advanced testing for infectious diseases. According to the lawsuit, Carothers was president of the company from 2021 to January of this year. He was decorated for service in Afghanistan and diagnosed with a severe form of PTSD in the summer of 2024. Carothers says he disclosed his diagnosis to the companys senior leadership and that he was in the early stages of therapy. He did so because of his increasing need to carve out time for clinical visits to the Huntsville VA medical facility. Four days later, he was terminated on vague performance based grounds, the suit alleges. Prior to that date, Carothers had never been subjected to any verbal or written counseling much less placed on any improvement plan and had been given no indication that his job was in jeopardy, the lawsuit states. Attempts to contact Diatherix Laboratories for comment were not immediately successful. Baldwin County School Superintendent Eddie Tyler at the school board's meeting on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the Central Office in Loxley, Ala. John Sharp A construction site at a school in Baldwin County was raided by federal immigration agents Wednesday morning. The superintendent said the district is cooperating with law enforcement. Our contracts with our construction projects require compliance with federal law. At this time, we have no indication of any wrongdoing, said Eddie Tyler, superintendent of Baldwin County Schools, in a statement Wednesday. The raid at Loxley Elementary School occurred at about 8:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, according to WKRG. The station reported 11 people were arrested. We remain committed to transparency and accountability in all of our operations, Tyler said. The raid comes as President Donald Trump is asking officials to arrest up to 3,000 people each day. So far in 2025, immigration arrests in Alabama have roughly doubled from the rate of 2024. While many people arrested have had a criminal record, increasing numbers do not have previous arrests or convictions, AL.com found. The most numbers of arrests in Alabama so far this year have occurred in Baldwin and Mobile counties. Local law enforcement in those counties recently joined a national partnership program that allows them to work alongside federal agents to arrest immigrants who are unlawfully in the country. A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Immigration did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Joint Prison Oversight Committee met on July 23, 2025. Tim Mathis spoke to the committee about his son who died in prison last year. (Ivana Hrynkiw | ihrynkiw@al.com) Ivana Hrynkiw Family members of people locked away in Alabamas prisons told lawmakers on Wednesday horror stories from parole hearings. They said the lack of parole and the new parole guidelines take away hope and create dangerous conditions inside a dangerously overcrowded prison system. Our prisons rising violence, staffing shortages, and our massive growing legal costs are all predictable consequences for reducing the primary incentive for rehabilitation, said Laura Click, who teaches life skills classes to recently released inmates. The hope of release for prisoners is the strongest driver of change we have. She said last month, there were 21 people at work release facilities people deemed safe to work in fast food and warehouse jobs by day who were denied parole and saw their next hearing put off for the maximum amount of time of five years. Thats not corrections, thats warehousing, said Click. The speakers at Wednesday mornings Joint Prison Oversight Committee hearing once again spoke largely about the states parole system. The last several meetings of the committee, including a contentious one last fall, have devolved into criticism of the three-member parole board. Ten people most of them parents or spouses of people incarcerated spoke to the four lawmakers who attended the hearing and one who attended virtually. Colleen Howell said she and her husband went to her sons parole hearing in May. Her son, Corey, had been locked up for possessing marijuana and Xanax. Howell said she was describing her sons accomplishments in prison and the classes he was taking, when former parole board chairperson Leigh Gwathney accused my son of lying to us. She said Gwathney dismissed her sons enrollment in his classes and said those programs were not even offered at the facility where her son was being held. No one took the time to verify what he had actually accomplished, Howell told the committee. They made a ruling based on misinformation and assumptions. Howell said she showed proof from her phone about the achievements, but she was still questioned and her son was denied parole. He was not set for another parole hearing and would have served out the rest of his sentence behind bars. It wasnt until she and her family were almost to their cars when someone from the building asked them to come back inside. There, Howell told AL.com, Gwathney immediately started apologizing. Evidently, after we left the building, she just knew that he was lying, said Howell. She started calling, doing whatever she had to do to verify that what we said was true. And she was told that in fact, he was (in the programs he claimed.) The board reversed the decision and granted Corey Howell parole. He attended the Wednesday meeting with an ankle monitor, covered by his pants and boots. Gwathneys term as the chair of the three-member parole board expired last month. Gov. Kay Ivey did not reappoint her to the seat, and replaced her with Jackson County lawman Hal Nash. Nash started the job last week. When Howell finished telling her story to the lawmakers, Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville, clarified that he had confirmed her story about the parole hearing. Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, said the issues Howell described are a feature of the system, and hes hoping for more transparency and oversight of the parole board. What we see as a constant right now in our communication is all the work, all the investment that is made on the Department of Corrections side to rehabilitate someone is just almost ignored in less than five minutes in front of the parole board. He said he thinks allowing parole applicants to send in video statements will help some of that information sharing. I know how this has been painted that its just me and others talking about trying to get as many people out as possible, said England. Which is furthest from the truth. What it is trying to make a fair system that gives both sides the opportunity to present information so the board can make a well-informed decision about denial or not. Thats the whole point. Click, whose husband is serving a life sentence, also complained about the proposal to make the maximum wait between parole hearings for those serving life sentences 10 years instead of the current five. She said its unfair and arbitrary. Some people are sentenced to 1,000 years although that still amounts to a life sentence instead of life in prison. Under the proposed rule, the person with the thousand-year sentence would get a five-year maximum between hearings instead of a ten-year gap for those sentenced under life. Chambliss sponsored that bill. I can see how thats an issue, he said, and vowed to speak with Click. England also asked several speakers their thoughts on the newly issued state guidelines for who should be granted parole. Carla Crowder, the executive director of Alabama Appleseed, said a portion of the new guidelines could punish people who arent able to get a job or find housing while still behind bars, an extremely difficult feat. Three others talked about their loved ones experiences in Alabamas lockups. Tim Mathis described losing his son, who was killed in prison after being denied parole last year, and said the measures to reduce violence in the prisons are wholly inadequate. Theres too many people dying, he said. It demands more action than whats being given. Alabamas prisons are facing several lawsuits, including a federal investigation into prison conditions and the rampant physical and sexual violence that happens inside. The system has been in the federal crosshairs for years, and the latest lawsuit from the Department of Justice is headed toward a trial next spring. Yolanda Williams, a 20-year Army veteran, told stories of her husbands life at Fountain Correctional Facility and the inhabitable conditions. If those were dogs, we would be calling the police. In closing remarks, Chambliss said the publics input has helped the committee create change. We are listening, he said. We are trying to make things better. If Howell had already been in her car leaving the parking deck before the parole workers found her in May, who knows what would have happened, she said. Id probably still be there, Corey Howell told AL.com. We were there to fight for him, said Howell, sitting next to her son. So many people he knows, there is absolutely no family that cares about him. So all they have is whats in that file in front of them and if that paperwork isnt right, theres people sitting in prison that should not be in prison. Mexican Coke sweetened with cane sugar tends to be a go-to beverage for Coca-Cola fans who want to avoid the U.S.-made version of the beverage with corn syrup. But soon, Coca-Cola will offer a version of its classic beverage sweetened with cane sugar manufactured in the U.S., according to multiple reports. Were going to be bringing a Coke sweetened with U.S. cane sugar into the market this fall, Coca-Cola Chairman and CEO James Quincey said on a conference call with analysts, reports NPR. The announcement comes after a social media post from President Donald Trump claiming he had been speaking to the beverage company about using real cane sugar in U.S.-made Coke products. NPR reports officials did note the presidents involvement in the recipe during the conference call, but didnt go into details about the conversation. As you may have seen last week, we appreciate the presidents enthusiasm for our Coca-Cola brand, Quincey said. According to NPR, the new Coca-Cola beverage doesnt mean traditional Coke is going away. Instead of a replacement, Quincey said the drink will be offered as an alternative in Coca-Colas portfolio. Coca-Cola produced for the US market is typically sweetened with corn syrup, the New York Post reported, but cane sugar is already used in other countries, including Mexico and some in Europe. = With just five weeks remaining before Mobiles Aug. 26 mayoral election, State Rep. Barbara Drummond is urging local media outlets to organize a formal debate among the four candidates vying for the citys top political post. Its the first time there has been an open-seat contest for Mobile mayor in 20 years. This is probably the most consequential election we will have, Drummond said ahead of a community forum at B.C. Rain High School on Tuesday. I think the voters in this city deserve to see a robust debate. Drummond emphasized that a structured debate, not just forums, would give voters the clearest view of where candidates stand. Money can buy ads, but it cant buy leadership, she said. Mobiles voters deserve to see each candidate think on their feet, not hide behind talking points. Forum focus State Rep. Barbara Drummond speaks during a mayoral forum on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Mobile, Ala. John Sharp Drummonds call comes amid a campaign season shaped by community forums held at churches, community centers, and schools. While those events have been well-attended, theyve largely avoided confrontation or rebuttals, leaving voters without much opportunity to see candidates challenge each other directly. TV stations have held events ahead of the election, but not structured debates. Fox10 News teamed with the League of Women Voters to host a candidates forum earlier this month. A runoff election will take place between the top two candidates in the Aug. 26 election if none of them receives more than 50% of the vote. Former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine participates in a candidates forum for Mobile mayor on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at B.C. Rain High School in Mobile, Ala. John Sharp Former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine said the difference between a forum and a debate is substantial. Im just honored to have the opportunity to talk to the people, Prine said. But debates and forums are two different things. The forums are very restrictive, whether its a response or your opening dialogue on what youre trying to do. He added, I would love to debate. It would allow the citizens to hear what the issues are and see specifically how the candidates will respond to the rebuttal sometime when someone gives information that might not necessarily be the right information. Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson speaks during a mayoral forum on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Mobile, Ala. Pictured from left to right are the four candidates for Mobile mayor in 2025: former Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis, State Rep. Barbara Drummond, Hudson and former Police Chief Paul Prine. John Sharp Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson also supports a debate and says shes open to whatever format is presented. Im here to state what I believe and feel and provide my plans for the future, Hudson said. Im game for whatever comes along. We have five weeks left before the election. We have an interested electorate here. People are interested in the future of Mobile. Former Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis speaks during the Mobile mayoral forum on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Cottage Hill Baptist Church in Mobile, Ala. The forum offered voters an opportunity to hear from the candidates ahead of the Aug. 26, 2025, municipal election. Mobile will have its first open mayor's race without an incumbent mayor on the ballot in 20 years. John Sharp Former Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis agreed in principle, though he raised scheduling as a potential obstacle. I dont think weve turned down an opportunity to speak to the people yet, he said. The only problem is right now, were five weeks out. If its something we can work into the schedule, Ill be there. Cheriogotis said the forums give candidates opportunities to mix it up and speak about similar topics with a message pertinent to the organization that is hosting the event. Baldwin contrast The lack of a structured debate in Alabamas largest Gulf Coast city is notable when compared to neighboring Baldwin County, where political contests have featured fiery exchanges and pointed accusations: In contrast, Mobiles forums have been tamer, often covering recurring issues like economic development, litter control, neighborhood revitalization, and even pruning Crepe myrtles. Drummond said voters deserve more than 30-second TV spots bankrolled by outside donors to make their decision. Campaign finance reports show that Cheriogotis leads the field, having raised nearly $1 million this cycle and ending June with nearly $700,000 on hand. Hudson is second, with $605,000 raised and $419,000 cash on hand. Drummond has brought in $236,000 and ended last month with $161,000, while Prine has raised $142,000 and reported $108,000 on hand. Cheriogotis, who received the endorsement of outgoing Mayor Sandy Stimpson in May, said hes focused on meeting voters directly. All I know to do is to work as hard as I possibly can and meet every voter I can, he said. You can only worry about the things you can control. I pray that the voters will trust me with their vote. Wheeler Lofts and the Buick building on St. Louis Street in downtown Mobile, Ala. Both buildings have been renovated thanks to the availability of state historic tax credits. The street, itself, is poised to be revitalized as part of an approximately $11 million investment. John Sharp/jsharp@al.com Once a magnet for shiny new cars in the early 20th century, St. Louis Street in downtown Mobile roared into life as Automobile Alley. But as decades wore on, the glow faded. The street was replaced by boarded-up buildings and earned a reputation for crime and decay. My recollection is that 12 years ago, this was not a place where there were any businesses and certainly nobody wanted to live, Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson recalled last month. There were things going on along this street that we really didnt want anywhere in Mobile. That began to change a decade ago with a $5 million investment into the Buick Building, sparking a quiet renaissance. Since 2015, St. Louis Street has slowly reawakened to welcome breweries, restaurants, a grocery store, and other businesses. In 2023, it earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Now, the city is preparing to put the final stamp on the streets rebirth. A $16.8 million contract with Mobile-based McElhenney Construction will bring a full restoration to a 17-block stretch of the street, aiming to transform it into a signature downtown destination. This will be the icing on the cake, said Jennifer Greene, director of programs and project management with the City of Mobile. The city council is set to vote on the project next Tuesday, with construction expected to begin by late summer. The work will occur one block at a time, starting at Broad and St. Louis streets and moving northeast toward Water Street. Greene said she anticipates the project lasting about 2-1/2 years. Weve been meeting with McElhenney and they have been fantastic, she said. There are ways to move it quicker. Our goal is to be on time, if not ahead of schedule. The work will cause disruptions largely because of the complexity of the project. The 17-block project is a complete street restoration that includes new underground utility work, new sidewalks, curbs and gutters, drainage, the addition of 50 new trees, and over 2,600 plants. This isnt the first major street renovation for Mobile. The project is similar in scope to the Broad Street project completed about two years ago. The $22 million revitalization of Broad Street, which loops around the outer areas of downtown Mobile, included new streets, curbs, gutters, drainage, trees, landscaping and more. The city wants to do a similar project along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue to serve as a public investment toward revitalizing a stretch of road that officials hope to transform into a cultural heritage tourism district. Its the same type of process there to improve infrastructure and move progress forward for downtown Mobile, said Councilman William Carroll, who represents the area. Most of the St. Louis Street project is financed through a $10.7 million RESTORE Act grant made possible from the BP oil spill settlement. In addition, $2.7 million was appropriated through the Mobile Metropolitan Planning Organization. The Mobile Area Water & Sewer System (MAWSS) will be undertaking approximately $4.2 million in upgrading water and sewer lines owned by the utility. Alabama Power is also involved in the project and will relocate its power poles off the street. The move will create a more aesthetically appealing street by eliminating what has long been described as a spaghetti soup of overhanging electrical wires. My hope is youll have a place to walk, ride your bike with great new landscaping, Greene said. We are improving the landscaping. All of the (private) investments weve seen on St. Louis Street will be capped off by this project. Existing business owners will have some hardships during construction, especially when the work is occurring within the street block they are located. Under the block-by-block approach, once work is completed within one block, construction will begin on the immediate next block and so forth. Weve been working with residents and businesses along St. Louis Street to get them ready for what is coming, Greene said. They are all completely aware of what is happening. Weve had excellent support from the community. At a community meeting last month, Stimpson said a block-to-block approach, which may take longer to complete, was more suitable for St. Louis Street than completely closing it to traffic and working on it at once. Because of the business activity, we realized that we just cant shut it down and hope everybody survives, Stimpson said. The 17 blocks we are rebuilding, well be rebuilding them one at a time and hopefully well be able to keep traffic flowing around that. Yes, we understand there will be disruptions even at that. But at the end of the day, the disruption in that period of time will be much better than having to deal with the failures that will occur in the future if we dont do it. He said the timing to do the project makes sense before there are more businesses and more people living along this corridor. That has been slowly occurring for years as St. Louis Street takes shape and becomes one of the more attractive downtown destinations next to Dauphin, Royal, and Water streets. Yes, it went through a period of businesses closing, but its now an artery for downtown, Greene said. Youve seen the Buick Building, Braided River, Wingman, Cheese Cottage, Greers. Its these super cool things coming in and those blocks have been renovated. She added, What were wanting to do is to make it look like an amazing street to drive down along. Construction is set to begin this fall on a new BJs Wholesale Club in Foley, according to a recent release from the city. This will be the chains second Alabama location following the Madison BJs that opened in late 2023. The closest BJs Club to Foley is currently located in Pensacola. The Foley Planning Commission has recommended approval for the project, which will be located on a 14-acre site along the South Juniper Street Extension, about a block east of South McKenzie Street, according to the release. BJs members will find groceries, household goods, electronics, tires and automotive services, and more at the new 106,370 square-foot facility, which will also include a fueling station. This will be the first wholesale club in South Baldwin, and it means our citizens wont have to leave Foley for this type of shopping, Mayor Ralph Hellmich said in the release. Its a significant addition to our retail space, and were glad they decided to come here. City officials have been working with developers and BJs representatives for about three years to bring the project to Foley, the release adds. Construction is expected to start in September or October and take about a year to complete. ORANGEBURG, S.C. South Carolina State University has named three new academic leaders to roles that will shape graduate education, student honors, and human services programs. The appointments reflect SC States commitment to academic excellence, community engagement and student success. Dr. Lakeisa Tucker has been named dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies; Dr. Stephanie Payne has been appointed acting chair of the Department of Human Services; and Dr. Windy Ann Mack Stephenson has been selected as executive director of academic and scholarship services for the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College. Dr. Lakeisa Tucker named dean of Graduate and Professional Studies Dr. Lakeisa Tucker has been appointed dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies. A longtime faculty member and administrator, Tucker previously served as acting dean of the college, acting chair of the Department of Human Services, and assistant professor. We are thrilled to announce this appointment of Dr. Lakeisa Tucker as the new Dean of the College of Graduate & Professional Studies, said Dr. Frederick Evans, provost and vice president for academic affairs. Dr. Tucker brings a proven record of academic leadership, experience in graduate education, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success. We are confident that under her guidance, the college will continue to grow in excellence, impact, and opportunity. Tucker has held numerous positions in human services, including roles in early intervention, child advocacy, education and social work. She earned her bachelors and masters degrees from the University of South Carolina and a doctorate in human services administration. About the College of Graduate and Professional Studies The College of Graduate and Professional Studies at SC State offers a range of advanced degree programs designed to prepare professionals for leadership in education, business, technology, the social sciences and more. The college promotes scholarly research, applied learning and community service through rigorous academic offerings at the masters, specialist and doctoral levels. Contact Dr. Lakeisa Tucker at ltucker3@scsu.edu or 803-536-8584. Dr. Stephanie Payne appointed acting chair of Human Services Dr. Stephanie Payne has been named acting chairperson of the Department of Human Services. An assistant professor of social work, Payne is a licensed master social worker and experienced facilitator with nearly 20 years in mental health, child welfare and higher education. Dr. Payne brings valuable experience, strong academic insight, and a collaborative spirit to this leadership role, Evans said. We look forward to the continued advancement of the Department of Human Services under her guidance. Before joining SC State, Payne managed child welfare training at the University of South Carolina. She also coordinates SC States social work program, leads the Child Welfare BSW Tuition Assistance Program, and serves as faculty advisor for Phi Alpha Honor Society. She holds degrees from North Carolina A&T State University, the University of South Carolina and Tulane University. About the Department of Human Services The Department of Human Services equips students with the knowledge and skills to serve diverse populations through careers in social work, mental health, community outreach and public service. With a strong emphasis on fieldwork, cultural competence and social justice, the department prepares graduates to be ethical leaders and advocates in human-centered professions. Contact Dr. Stephanie Payne at spayne3@scsu.edu or 803-536-8802. Dr. Windy Ann Mack Stephenson to lead Honors College academic services Dr. Windy Ann Mack Stephenson, a proud SC State alumna and Orangeburg native, has been named executive director of academic and scholarship services for the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College. "Dr. Stephenson brings an inspiring and uplifting spirit of vision, dedication, and empathy to the Honors College, Evans said. Her leadership dynamics, grounded in extensive experience and a deep commitment to student success, align seamlessly with our mission to foster academic excellence and community engagement. Stephenson has over 20 years of experience in education and has taught at every level from early childhood through college. She earned her bachelors degree from SC State, a masters from Northern Illinois University and a doctorate from Capella University. Her academic and professional work has focused on gifted education, educational equity and community leadership. Dr. Stephenson is a dynamic leader and a passionate educator, said Dr. William H. Whitaker, dean of the Honors College. Her commitment to academic rigor, equity, and excellence resonates deeply with the mission of the Clyburn Honors College. About the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College Named in honor of the late librarian, educator and civil rights advocate, the Clyburn Honors College provides high-achieving students with rigorous academic enrichment, leadership development, and service opportunities. The program supports scholars through mentorship, competitive scholarships, research opportunities and community engagement, cultivating excellence in SC States next generation of global leaders. Contact Dr. Windy Ann Mack Stephenson at wmack3@scsu.edu or 803-516-4610. Ready to rise? South Carolina State University empowers driven, curious and committed students to go farther than they ever imagined. With exceptional faculty, a supportive learning environment, and nationally recognized programs, SC State is the place where ambition meets opportunity. Learn more and apply today at www.scsu.edu . There's been noticeable progress on construction of the new headquarters for Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United. The official groundbreaking happened in June 2024 and a three-year, $330 million construction project got underway. It's expected to open in 2027. ggarrison@al.com A new corporate headquarters under construction in Birmingham with a sleek glassy facade is beginning to assert itself as a gateway to the city. If you drive through Birmingham on Interstate 20/59, theres no missing the new construction taking place near the Tallapoosa exit. The frame of a multi-story building is rising on what was once the grounds of the former Stockham Valve property. The glass window veneer has begun to take shape. When its completed, itll be the new headquarters for Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United. The official groundbreaking happened in June 2024 and a three-year, $330 million construction project got underway. Now, its easier to visualize where the headquarters building will be and how it will serve as a new gateway to the city. Its one of the largest investments by a private company in Birmingham history. The new bottling facility will produce Coca-Cola products for Jefferson County and 11 other surrounding counties. This new campus will create jobs and secure existing ones, further boosting our economy, Gov. Kay Ivey said at the groundbreaking. When the company moves into the new campus in 2027, the facility will retain 750 jobs and add up to 50 more. The new facility will include a 150,000-square-foot multi-floor office complex and a 300,000- square-foot warehouse featuring the Vertique case picking system that is among the most advanced in the beverage industry. Coca-Cola United has invested in Vertique technology at six of its locations, including Mobile in 2021. Cokes new facility, which along with its famous trademark will be highly visible to traffic along Interstate 20/59, will house the Birmingham Coca-Cola sales center as well as Coca-Cola Uniteds Corporate, Central Region and North Alabama Division headquarters the latter of which supports the companys operations in Carbon Hill, Cullman, Florence, Oxford and Tuscaloosa. Bulldozers began clearing 105 acres in March 2024. The project was officially announced after approval of city and county incentives. The companys Classic Food and Vending arm, customer solutions center and services department will also be based in the new facility. The iconic Coca-Cola brand made its way to the Magic City in 1902 when businessman and community philanthropist Crawford Johnson Sr. opened Birmingham Coca-Cola with a staff consisting of one associate and a borrowed mule named Bird. Johnson and his family went on to open and acquire several bottling franchises throughout the Southeast, and in 1974, the company was incorporated as Coca-Cola UNITED. The company has operated out of its current facility at 4600 East Lake Blvd. since 1979. Coca-Cola purchased the Stockham Valves and Fittings property in 2013 on 40th Street North, about two miles from its current East Lake Boulevard location. The Birmingham Water Works Customer Service Center is shown in Birmingham, Ala. (Mark Almond/AL.com file) Birmingham police and leaders at Birminghams regional water authority are investigating another issue of internal theft at the utility, AL.com has learned. Mac Underwood, general manager of Central Alabama Water, formerly known as the Birmingham Water Works, said the allegation of theft involves a former employee within the utilitys distribution department. The mayor of a small Alabama town and one of his most vocal critics normally square off at city council meetings where each recites a litany of complaints about the other. While Tarrant Mayor Wayman Newton and activists Chuck Winborn for years have used the public space for their political brawl, they have never sat down at the same table. That might change soon. While not the Camp David Peace Accords or the Yalta Conference, talk of a lunch summit between the Tarrant political rivals raised eyebrows when it was proposed during the council meeting this week. Ive been talking to people all over the city. They keep asking me about you. What is it about you and Chuck, Newton said after Winborn completed his familiar complaints about the mayor. Hes never particularly cared for me, and I dont particularly care for him, Winborn interjected. I agree. But instead of the usual retort, Newton then invited Winborn to lunch, albeit not a totally private gathering. The only thing that I ask is that its live streamed, Newton said. That way you cant say one thing and I cant say something (else). The mayor frequently calls Winborn a racist while Winborn describes the mayor as disrespectful and vindictive. The mayor wants to make statements about my heritage and that Ive done my genealogy. Im not ashamed of that, he said. Im not ashamed of anything that Ive said. Winborn was even arrested in April after posting police footage on his social media page. The criminal charge of defamation was soon dropped. Winborn called it an attempt to silence his activism. That incident was one in a series of political battles that have resulted in arrests, civil and criminal cases involving citizens and elected leaders. The town of 6,000 is bitterly divided politically and the mayor and council spar regularly. Citizens voice their disapproval during council meetings. Tarrant is just northeast of Birmingham. Winborn is a member of the citys crime commission and is supporter of police chief Wendell Major, another nemesis of the mayor. He also supports Councilwoman Tracie Threadford, who is running for mayor against Newton. Both Major and Threadford are black while Winborn is white. I dont care what the mayors supporters think about me, Winborn said. It makes no difference to me. Winborn continued to press his issues against the mayor Monday evening. Everything that Ive said at that podium concerning you can be backed up by these people right here or on video, he said. Newton said issues between the two men could be talked about during their summit. You just let me know the day and the time that works for me and its lunch on me, he said. Winborn agreed and then offered his own terms. He will meet but only with a third-party witness. You can bring one of your friends, Newton said. You pick a date and time, and I will pay for your lunch. Im not paying for their lunch. Executives of two global defense companies that build missiles in north Alabama reported strong growth Tuesday as they position themselves for a share of billions in expected Golden Dome procurement. Lockheed Martin Corp. reported second-quarter sales of $18.2 billion on Tuesday, essentially level with same-quarter results from 2024. The companys missiles and fire control segment posted $479 million in adjusted operating profit. Were investing in emerging technologies, and as a proven mission integrator, we remain well positioned to support critical programs like the Golden Dome for America, President and CEO Jim Taiclet said. Artist rendering of the Mill Creek development near downtown Huntsville. City of Huntsville Construction is expected to begin next year on the first two residential buildings of the $400 million Mill Creek Choice Neighborhood Initiative, members of the Huntsville Planning Commission were told Tuesday. Dennis Madsen, the citys manager of urban and long-range planning, said $50 million in federal funding for the project was secure. He said the city was already drawing from the funding. Madsen said the city anticipates moving dirt on the first phase of the project in the first quarter of next year. The first phase is on the southwest corner of the site between Clinton Avenue and Governors Drive west of Seminole Drive. The universal design building in phase one will get built first, Madsen said. It will be followed closely by phase two, which is a senior housing facility. Those two buildings being erected will allow us to vacate Johnson Towers with the idea that most of those folks will go into one of those two buildings. The great thing about that is that most of those residents will only move once. Madsen said once the residents move, it will allow the city to take down Johnson Towers and move on to phase three of the project. Thats where a lot of families will move in and we will be able to provide new housing, he said. A plan for the five phases of Huntsville's Mill Creek redevelopment project. City of Huntsville In addition to Johnson Towers, Butler Terrace buildings remain on the site. After radon was discovered in some buildings on the southern portion of the site, they were torn down. The development area, just west of Memorial Parkway, is a partnership with Huntsville Housing Authority that will result in a $350 million investment into a mixed-income community with workforce housing, medical and childcare services and retail options. The city formally accepted the $50 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development earlier last year. Under the terms of the HUD grant, the housing must be completed within eight to 10 years. Madsen highlighted Huntsville Hospitals plans to build housing on the site for its workforce. He said the piece played a role in helping the city receive the HUD grant. He said a minimum of 125 units were being built specifically for the hospitals employees. As you know from experience, if you go to any community, Housing Authority buildings that had been built in the 50s, 60s and 70s, you can typically spot them, Madsen said. They are very recognizable. The idea is this is supposed to look like any market rate housing. It should have quality streetscapes. It should have quality public spaces. Madsen said the city is working to create a linear park through the middle of the neighborhood. The Planning Commission approved a resolution of support for the project, which Madsen said could prove crucial for the city if it sought to apply for more grant funding. Its a great looking plan, Planning Commission member Kelly Schrimsher said. I know how much time and energy and effort and public input by the residents have gone into this. It will truly be transformational for that neighborhood, Planning Commission Chairman Les Tillery added. Alabama Republican Chairman John Wahl said he is considering running for lieutenant governor in 2026. John Sharp/jsharp@al.com Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl said he has not made a decision about whether to run for lieutenant governor but plans to do so soon after the partys summer meeting in August. Wahl said in a text message Tuesday night he was still considering the race. Many Americans were shocked at Congress recent approval of a Trump-backed bill that will cut $1.1 billion for public broadcasting, but Alabama Public Television leadership said they were able to predict the move due to bias problems at NPR and PBS. In a recent interview with Capital Journal, APTV Executive Director Wayne Reid and Network Director of External Affairs Jack Williams said that they had been on a crusade to fix what they alleged was biased coverage from the two nationally funded networks. Ever since I came on and we would go to national meetings, one of the things we took to the leadership at NPR and at PBS at every meeting that we went to is we have biased issues and we have bias problems, Reid told host Todd Stacy. And its whether theyre in their echo chamber up in New York or Washington, and they kind of listen to each other and say, no, were not. But the problem is, there was a lot of states that would say theres problems that we need to get fixed. And we have pushed that from the state level of Alabama and a lot of other states for several years now, since Ive been here, Reid continued. And Jack started that crusade even before I did. Williams added that the two had cobbled together at least eight, and I think it grew to 12 or 14 state networks that have expressed deep dissatisfaction with how NewsHour programming has been done in Washington Week. I brought this up directly to the CEO of PBS and CEO of NPR in a panel discussion in February, in Washington, D.C., he said. Ive had conversations with the chairman of the Board for NPR and the chairman of the board for PBS. And Ive seen both CEOs this week say, theres no bias. Reid told AL.com that APT will lose just over $2.8 million in restricted and unrestricted grant funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which is about 13% of the total annual budget. The cuts are expected to hit several public radio stations in Alabama, with Huntsvilles WLRH anticipating losing $155,000 of their annual budget, or 13% of operating costs, as AL.coms Scott Turner recently reported. While this presents a challenge to WLRH and hundreds of stations nationwide, smaller and more rural stations could go darkpermanently, the official WLRH account posted to LinkedIn on Saturday. While Williams claimed that APTs programming is more state focused and less biased than NPR or PBS, he said that state programming will continue to be impacted until NPR and PBS leadership address their bias problems. I think as long as they double down on that [arguing that the stations are unbiased], its going to make it more difficult for us to work with the federal government in the future, he told Stacy. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrive to view opening night of "Les Miserables," at the Kennedy Center, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP House Republicans are ready to do some rebranding. On Thursday, GOP members of the House Appropriations Committee voted to rename the Opera House at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts after Melania Trump. The move to honor the first lady comes after President Trump overhauled the leadership of the arts institution in February, dismissing much of its board and naming himself its chairman. Those moves left some performers, such as Issa Rae and the creative team behind Hamilton, vowing to steer clear of the Kennedy Center. The name change was part of a larger Interior Department spending bill and passed on a vote of 33-25. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson introduced the amendment to rechristen the opera house. In a statement, Simpson said, naming a theater after [the first lady] is an excellent way to recognize her appreciation for the arts. Melania Trump serves as honorary chair of the Kennedy Center, as have first ladies before her. President Trump steered clear of the venue during his first term, skipping the Kennedy Center Honors. However, during his second term, he not only toured the venue after overhauling its leadership, but also attended a performance of Les Miserables with his wife. The bill will still needs to be approved by the full House before getting voted on by the Senate. The recent Republican-backed tax bill included $257 million that was earmarked for repairs and maintenance on the Kennedy Center. However, Republicans want to cut the centers budget for the next year by $7 million. Spokespeople for the Kennedy Center and the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 2025 Variety Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Business Media; Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC President Donald Trump speaks as Attorney General Pam Bondi listens during a meeting with the Fraternal Order of Police in the State Dinning Room of the White House, Thursday, June 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP President Donald Trump was told by Attorney General Pam Bondi that hes mentioned multiple times in files related to the probe of notorious sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, according to a new report Wednesday. Bondi told Trump in May that his name appears alongside many other prominent people in Department of Justice documents about the Epstein case, The Wall Street Journal reported. The crucial meeting at which Bondi briefed Trump came shortly before she released a controversial memo declaring the Trump administration wouldnt release any more information about the bombshell investigation, the paper said. Since being told hes in the files, Trump, who admits once being a close friend of the notorious pedophile, has repeatedly sought to quiet the firestorm over the Epstein case and even called it a hoax hatched by his political opponents. The White House Wednesday dodged questions about the Wall Street Journal scoop. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, said White House communications director Steven Cheung. Trump denied a specific question about whether Bondi told him he was included in the Epstein files outside the White House on July 15. Specifically, did she tell you at all that your name appeared in the files? a reporter asked Trump. No, no. Shes given us just a very quick briefing, and in terms of the credibility of the different things that theyve seen, Trump responded. Before his second inauguration in January, Trump and his MAGA allies spent years demanding the release of far more information about the Epstein case. As public furor over the Epstein case has exploded in recent weeks, Trump has sought to deflect criticism. He ordered Bondi to seek the release of grand jury testimony in the case, which experts say is likely to be much more tame than the materials in the files. The bombshell WSJ report dropped on a day of fast-moving developments in the Epstein case, which has divided Trump from his right-wing MAGA base. A Florida judge on Wednesday rejected a Trump administration request to unseal transcripts from grand jury investigations of Epstein years ago in Florida. A similar records request is pending before a Manhattan federal judge who presided over the trial of convicted Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The former socialite pal of Epstein, who is appealing her 20-year prison sentence, opposes the request. A congressional committee has issued Maxwell a subpoena for a deposition but its unclear if she will agree to appear. Another Republican-controlled panel is considering demanding release of all the Epstein files, with several GOP lawmakers saying they will join Democrats to back the move. House Speaker Mike Johnson scrapped most congressional legislative business and sent lawmakers home early for their August recess in hopes the political firestorm dies down. _____ 2025 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Washington Mystics play against the Los Angeles Sparks in a WNBA game tonight. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. CT on ESPN 3. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. The Mystics enter this matchup with an 11-11 record, and they have won three of their last four games. However, the team is coming off a 99-80 loss against Los Angeles. In order to bounce back this evening, the Mystics will need a great performance from their star guard Brittney Sykes. She leads the Washington offense in scoring, as she averages more than 17 points per game. Notably, Sykes also leads the team with nearly five assists per game. The Sparks enter this matchup with an 8-14 record, and they have won three of their last four games. In order to win tonights game, the Sparks will need to rely on their star player Kelsey Plum. She leads the Los Angeles offense in scoring, as she averages more than 20 points per game. Fans can watch this WNBA game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. July 23, 2025: The June 13th Israeli airstrikes on Iran were followed up with seven American B2 stealth bombers using fourteen 13 ton ground penetrating bombs to destroy well protected Iranian nuclear weapons facilities at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. This did significant damage to the Iranian nuclear weapons program and was a relief to Israel and the United States. Iran had long planned to destroy Israel with one or two nuclear weapons. That program has been delayed several times by Israeli or American airstrikes. Apparently, this policy will continue for as long as it is needed. The United States will also continue to develop heavy bombers, an aircraft type that the Americans have been building and using since the 1930s. First came the 19-ton B-17, which was developed during the 1930s and entered service in 1938. By the end of World War II in 1945, nearly 13,000 of these aircraft were built. During the war B-17s dropped 43 percent of the 1.5 million tons of bombs used against German military and economic targets. B-17s continued to fly, largely in non-military roles, into the 1950s. As of 2025 four are still flying and dozens more are intact but grounded. Serving on a B-17 crew was dangerous and casualty rates were higher than those in the infantry. About 88,000 heavy bomber crew were killed over Europe, most of them on B-17s. A less successful heavy bomber was the B-24. Some 8,000 of these were built because they had longer range, heavier bomb load and proved invaluable in the war against German submarines in the Atlantic and as a long range patrol, bomber and transport aircraft in the Pacific. The last active B-24, used by the Indian air force, retired in 1968. The most expensive bomber of World War II was the 60-t0n B-29. Two of these dropped atomic bombs on Japan in 1945, the only aircraft, so far, to ever do so. Development and production of 3,900 aircraft cost about $3 billion, which is 53 billion in 2025 dollars. An updated version, 370 0f the 78-ton B-50, entered service in 1948 and were retired in 1965 after many of them served in non-combat roles. In 1946 the 185-ton B-36 entered service. Powered by six propellers and four jet engines, only 385 were built and they served as the primary U.S. heavy bomber until 1959. In 1951 the 100-ton B-47 entered service. While 2,042 were built, the last of these was retired in 1977. In 1952 the first of 742 221-ton B-52s entered service and are expected to serve until 2050 or later. A very effective and adaptable design, 76 are currently in service. In 1960 the less successful 80-ton B-58 entered service. Only 116 were built and it was retired in 1970 after only ten years of service. Reliability problems were the main reason, and 21 percent were lost to accidents. In 1997 the first 170-ton B-2 entered service. This was the first stealthy heavy bomber. That came at a cost, which was $2 billion each. Maintenance and operation was also very expensive. Congress would not pay for the 132 the air force wanted. While only 21 were built and 19 are still operational in 2025. In the 2030s the B-2s will gradually be replaced by the B-21. The 81-ton B-21 is still in development and three of the eventual 100 aircraft exist. The first flight was November 2023. This is a much improved B-2, designed to quickly travel to targets anywhere in the world on short notice. These B-2s recently demonstrated this in Iran. B-21s will cost at least $800 million each and over a billion before 30 or more years of service are over. It is hoped that the B-21 can eventually replace the B-2 and B-52 by 2050. Australia plans to obtain some B-21s and provide base and maintenance capabilities for American B-21s. The Philadelphia Phillies play against the Boston Red Sox in an MLB game tonight. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m. CT on TBS. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trial offered by DirecTV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. The Phillies enter this matchup with a 57-43 record, and they are coming off a close 3-2 win against Boston. In order to win tonights game, the Phillies will need to rely on their star player Kyle Schwarber. He leads the Philadelphia offense with 32 home runs and 74 RBI, so he will try to continue his offensive success this evening. The Red Sox enter this matchup with a 54-48 record, and they have lost three of their last four games. In order to turn things around tonight, the Red Sox will need a great performance from their star player Jarren Duran. He leads the Boston offense with 105 hits this season, so he will try to continue his great play this evening. Notably, Duran also leads the team with 25 doubles and 10 triples. Fans can watch this MLB game for free online by using the free trial offered by DirecTV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. The Seattle Storm play against the Dallas Wings in a WNBA game tonight. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. CT on ESPN 3. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. The Storm enter this matchup with a 14-9 record, and they are coming off a 67-58 win against Golden State. In order to win tonights game, the Storm will need to rely on their star player Skylar Diggins. She leads the team in scoring, as she averages nearly 18 points per game. Notably, Diggins also leads the Seattle offense with more than five assists per game. The Wings enter this matchup with a 6-17 record, and they have lost four consecutive games. In their most recent game, the Wings lost 90-86 against Las Vegas. In order to bounce back tonight, the Wings will need a great performance from their star player Paige Bueckers. The rookie guard leads the team in points and assists this season, so she will try to continue her offensive success this evening. Fans can watch this WNBA game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users. The New York Yankees play against the Toronto Blue Jays in an MLB game tonight. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 6:07 p.m. CT on Prime Video. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trial offered by Prime Video. The Yankees enter this matchup with a 56-45 record, and they have won three of their last four games. In their most recent game, the Yankees defeated Toronto 5-4. In order to win tonights game, the Yankees will need to rely on their star player Aaron Judge. He leads the New York offense with 36 home runs and 82 RBI, so he will look to continue his offensive success this evening. Notably, Judge also leads the team with a .346 batting average. The Blue Jays enter this matchup with a 59-42 record, and they have won four of their last five games. In order to win this game, the Blue Jays will need to rely on their star player Bo Bichette. He leads the Toronto offense with 57 RBI and 116 hits, which highlights his offensive prowess. Fans can watch this MLB game for free online by using the free trial offered by Prime Video. Another tropical disturbance is expected to move into the Gulf, but it has a low chance of becoming a tropical depression or storm. National Hurricane Center The National Hurricane Center will be watching a tropical disturbance near the Southeast U.S. for the rest of the week. Forecasters think the disturbance -- which has a very low chance of development (10 percent) as of Wednesday -- will move into the Gulf in the next day or two. It was near northern Florida on Wednesday afternoon. The hurricane center said some slow development will be possible as the system tracks to the west. However, forecasters think it will move inland along the Gulf Coast -- likely to the west of Alabama -- by this weekend. The National Weather Service in Mobile is not expecting the system to produce tropical-storm-type hazards for the Alabama coast. But it could bring higher rain chances and tropical downpours to the coast and parts of Florida through the weekend, the hurricane center said. It will also raise the risk for rip currents on Friday: The risk for rip currents will rise on Thursday and especially on Friday along the Alabama and northwest Florida coasts. NWS The Atlantic Basin (which includes the Gulf and Caribbean), has not had a named system since Tropical Storm Chantal moved inland in South Carolina on July 6. The last day of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season will be Nov. 30. English News N China's Shanxi accelerates transition to cleaner energy Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 19 Juillet 2025 Today, more than 21,000 market participants operate in Shanxi's electricity spot market. "The spot market's real-time pricing has become the most dynamic mechanism for balancing supply and demand," said Zhang Chao, head of the spot market division at State Grid Shanxi Electric Power Company. By Liu Xinyan, Zheng Yangyang, People's Daily From the platform at the Tashan power plant in Datong, north China's Shanxi province, a 1,500-meter-long enclosed coal conveyor, elevated above ground directly connects the facility to Tashan Coal Mine. "This system enables on-site, low-emission coal transfer and enhances operational efficiency," explained Wu Sitong, deputy head of the plant's fuel department. "By integrating coal mining and power generation, we're lowering costs, reducing pollution, and enhancing coal-power coordination." As one of China's major coal-producing provinces, Shanxi has actively pursued energy transition in recent years. It has charted a path toward a diversified, low-carbon energy system - balancing the need for energy security with the imperative to cut emissions. It has become one of China's top electricity exporters, and for two years running, it has led the country in transmitting green energy to other regions. Renewables now account for over half of Shanxi's installed power generation capacity. To address the intermittency of wind and solar generation, coa-fired power still play a vital supporting role during renewable output fluctuations. Meetingt this dual challenge, Shanxi is implementing flexibility retrofits at coal plants - reducing output during low demand and up during peak periods. At a thermal plant operated by China Huadian Corporation Ltd. in Shuozhou, Shanxi, an advanced 20-megawatt-hour packed-bed thermal energy storage system captures heat during off-peak hours and releases it during periods of high demand. "It has significantly improved our plant's responsiveness to grid dispatch orders," said Sun Jiaquan, executive director of the plant. As of the end of May, Shanxi had completed flexibility retrofits for 35.61 million kilowatts of thermal power capacity while adding 6.11 million kilowatts of peak-shaving capability. These improvements have enabled the provincial grid to absorb an additional 9 billion kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity annually. To address the intermittency of renewables, Shanxi is pioneering integrated energy systems combining traditional and green power sources. At a wind farm on Hutou Mountain in Shouzhou's Pinglu district, rows of wind turbines spin steadily in the breeze. Their output combined with thermal power and undergoes storage at a facility within a 500 kV substation, before transmission via an ultra-high-voltage direct current (UHV DC) lines to the manufacturing hub of the Yangtze River Delta. At the 800 kV converter station in the Yanmen Pass, Shanxi, 24 massive converter transformers run around the clock to ensure stable transmission. This high-capacity transmission corridor, stretching 1,119 kilometers, has a maximum capacity of 8 million kilowatts and channels clean energy from Shanxi directly to Jiangsu province in eastern China. Shanxi's power transmission network includes one UHV DC line, three ultra-high-voltage AC lines, and 14 outbound 500 kV corridors. Once the 1,000 kV Datong-Huailai-Tianjin South ultra-high-voltage project is completed, alongside a new energy base in the province's subsidence areas, Shanxi is expected to deliver 27 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity each year to the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Its total outbound transmission capacity will exceed 36 million kilowatts. Alongside infrastructure upgrades, Shanxi is also leveraging market mechanisms to improve coordination between traditional and renewable energy sources. At the State Grid Shanxi Electric Power Company's dispatch center, a real-time price board updates electricity spot market rates every 15 minutes. When solar and wind output is high during the day and market prices drop, thermal power stations reduce output to accommodate renewable sources. As evening demand spikes, they ramp up again to stabilize supply. Today, more than 21,000 market participants operate in Shanxi's electricity spot market. "The spot market's real-time pricing has become the most dynamic mechanism for balancing supply and demand," said Zhang Chao, head of the spot market division at State Grid Shanxi Electric Power Company. Dans la meme rubrique : < > A Chinese hero remembered in reverence Shanghai FTZ experience spurs innovation-driven growth through institutional reform They Leave to Uplift, Not to Escape: How Migration Sustains Lesothos Quiet Villages Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News Ningxia's arid plains yield vintage prosperity Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 20 Juillet 2025 This transition from labor-intensive to technology-driven agriculture has attracted 19 wineries to establish operations in the village. With over 10,000 mu of wine grapes, the village produced 6,000 tons of wine last year, with total output nearing 400 million yuan. A digital service platform for the industry is expected to go online by the end of the year. By Qin Ruijie, People's Daily On a sunlit terrace at the Chateau Huida Sunshine, nestled in Hongsibu district of Wuzhong, northwest China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region, Li Cai surveyed rows of lush grapevines stretching toward the horizon. The scene stood in stark contrast to the desolate gravel desert when he first arrived in 1999. "What began as merely a means of subsistence has truly become a path to prosperity," he reflected. Back then, winemaking along the eastern slopes of the Helan Mountain was in its nascent stages. Scattered vineyards yielded grapes only for local consumption, with farmers earning less than 1,000 yuan ($139.56) per mu (approximately 15,000 yuan per hectare). Today, the once-desolate land has been transformed into a vibrant winemaking hub. Li's own journey - from a ditch-digging laborer to chief winemaker at his winery - parallels Ningxia's remarkable emergence as a wine-producing region. Once a bold experiment in desert cultivation, Ningxia's wine industry has matured into a globally recognized enterprise. The autonomous region now hosts 606,000 mu of wine grape vineyards, producing 140 million bottles annually with a total output value of 45 billion yuan. The industry has created nearly 130,000 jobs for local farmers and contributed 1.22 billion yuan in wages. Recognition increasingly comes from discerning international markets. Recently, Xige Estate situated in the Gezi Mountain growing area, Qingtongxia city, about 90 kilometers north of Hongsibu, welcomed a group of special visitors. Among them was French wine merchant Durand Fisher from Bordeaux. During the visit, Durand added a new release from the Ningxia winery to his portfolio. "This competes squarely in Europe's premium market," affirmed Durand, noting that his appreciation extended beyond the vintage itself to the burgeoning reputation of wines from the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountain. "We've established nearly 100 detailed standards, from soil pH and grape brix levels at harvest to oak-aging durations," explained Mu Haibin, head of the technical services office of the Helan Mountain east foothill wine industry park. "Many vineyards now hold EU organic certification, unlocking global markets." In recent years, Ningxia has been working to promote the wines produced from the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountain as a regional brand, encouraging local wineries to participate in domestic and international wine competitions and exhibitions to raise their global recognition. So far, the region has earned over 1,800 international awards across more than 60 wineries. "Wine shouldn't be confined to fancy glasses and formal dinners. It should become a part of everyday life," said Liao Zusong, Xige Estate's chief winemaker. On an e-commerce platform, he held up a can from the estate's hit product line - "Xiao Zhuo," a casual wine series designed for social media-savvy consumers. "It's a hit online, perfect for binge-watching, barbecues, or camping." Xige Estate, located near the ruins of the Great Wall built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), has become a tourist hotspot after featuring in a popular TV drama. The winemakers have seized the opportunity, rolling out immersive wine tourism experiences blending tradition with trend. Visitors can cycle through the vineyards, try their hand in the winemaking process, design their own wine labels, and even camp under the stars with curated food-and-wine pairings - an all-around celebration of wine culture. Ningxia now boasts 22 certified wineries at AA-level or above, attracting over 3 million tourists last year. Winery tourism has become a major driver of local wine sales. In the vineyards of Haoyuan village in Xixia district, Yinchuan, capital of Ningxia, grape grower Zhang Shengjie checked real-time soil moisture and light conditions on a mobile application. "Now I can manage watering and fertilizing with just a few taps. Smart farming really improves grape quality," he said. "Last year, I earned an extra 0.3 yuan per kilogram." This transition from labor-intensive to technology-driven agriculture has attracted 19 wineries to establish operations in the village. With over 10,000 mu of wine grapes, the village produced 6,000 tons of wine last year, with total output nearing 400 million yuan. A digital service platform for the industry is expected to go online by the end of the year. "Each bottle will soon carry a digital identity," said Xie Chunmei, associate professor at Ningxia Technical College of Wine and Desertification Prevention. "Scan its QR code reveals the entire journey - from the vineyard to fermentation temperatures and barrel aging." Early trials show impressive results: average grape sugar content has climbed to 25.7 percent, matching premium winemaking standards. Yields per mu increased from 600 to 800 kilograms, while water usage has dropped by 30 percent. Ningxia is also promoting the integration of wine culture and tourism. With new experiences like "wine + camping" and "wine + music festivals," the vineyards and characteristic wineries at the foot of the Helan Mountain are becoming unique local assets that revitalize nearby townships and counties. Dans la meme rubrique : < > A Chinese hero remembered in reverence Shanghai FTZ experience spurs innovation-driven growth through institutional reform They Leave to Uplift, Not to Escape: How Migration Sustains Lesothos Quiet Villages Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) English News Transboundary waterfall symbolizes growing ties between China and Vietnam Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 20 Juillet 2025 Like the waterfall itself, which roars day and night with unrelenting force, the friendship between China and Vietnam flows steadily forward, rooted in shared history, nourished by daily exchanges, and renewed by each generation. By Zhang Yunhe, Qu Pei, Liu Lingling, People's Daily Along the China-Vietnam border, the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cascades across both nations. As the biggest cross-border waterfall in Asia and the fourth-largest cross-border waterfall worldwide, this natural marvel straddles Detian village in Chongzuo, south China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region and Ban Gioc village in Vietnam, a living testament to shared natural beauty and strengthening bilateral ties. For generations, residents have shared language and customs. "We gather wood from the same mountain and drink water from the same river," locals often say. Those longstanding connections have been revitalized through the region's transformation into China's first cross-border tourism cooperation zone, turning shared geography into vibrant cultural exchanges. Visitors now ascend misty walkways to viewing platforms where clouds hover like breath over the torrents. "What a beautiful waterfall!" exclaimed 56-year-old Tran Thi Tuyet from Vietnam. Tran hails from Hop Tien village, Xa Binh Dinh, Kien Xuong district in Vietnam's Thai Binh province, some 500 to 600 kilometers from Detian village. "The first time I saw the waterfall, I was captivated. I fell in love with this place and with its people," she said. She met her husband in Detian village more than two decades ago and gradually learned Chinese. Today, she runs a stall on the China-Vietnam Friendship Street in the village. "There are tourists from all over," said Tran. "In Vietnamese, we call everyone 'brother' or 'sister' regardless of age. When I hear someone speak my native dialect, I feel a sense of home. It's like chatting with family." The China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism cooperation zone began trial operations on September 15, 2023 and officially opened on October 15, 2024. "Travel has become much easier. Tourists can book in groups using just a passport or ID card. The experience offers not only stunning scenery but also exposure to the cultures of both countries," said Li Jiankun, marketing manager of Guangxi CTS Detian Waterfall Tourism Development Co., Ltd. "Besides enjoying the waterfall, Chinese tourists explore Vietnamese temples while Vietnamese tourists browse Guangxi's coffee markets. Cultural exchanges flow actively on both sides," Li added. Since its launch, the zone has received 1,838 Chinese cross-border tour groups and 639 Vietnamese groups. Business has followed. "Vietnamese coffee, conical hats, and buffalo horn combs are popular among Chinese tourists," Tran noted. "My son now works on the Chinese side of the scenic area, ferrying tourists on bamboo rafts, and earns a stable monthly income." "Come on, let's take a photo here!" On a recent visit, Hong Chunmei, a tourist from Sanya, south China's Hainan province, posed with her friends in a traditional Vietnamese ao dai before the waterfall. "This is my second time here. It feels even more lively than before. I've seen a lot more Vietnamese tourists this time," said Hong. The surge in cross-border visits was also visible during the recent Yuanchun Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the third month in the traditional Chinese calendar. "Just a few days ago, I took my family to the waterfall scenic area. It was packed with visitors. Today, during the celebrations on Shuolong Street, I recognized several of the same visitors," said local resident Qiu Yongming as he watched traditional performances. Originally known as the "Street Founding Festival," the Yuanchun Festival commemorates the building of Shuolong Street, which began as a makeshift marketplace cleared by border troops. The street was formally built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and came to be known as Shuolong Street. At an auspicious morning hour, roasted pigs were carried to the General's Temple, a traditional shrine dedicated to a historic military figure, for a ritual ceremony. Dragon dances followed, and friendly competitions filled the square, drawing participants from both sides of the border. "Most of the visitors are local border residents. It's like gathering with relatives," said 32-year-old Ma Thi Mi, who moved from Ha Lang district, Cao Bang province, Vietnam, to Shuolong township after marriage. She now runs a noodle shop on the street. While the Yuanchun Festival takes place once a year, Shuolong Street thrives year-round. On market days, which fall on the 2nd, 5th, and 8th days of the lunar month - Chinese and Vietnamese villagers converge to trade poultry, household goods, or local specialties, Qiu explained. Like the waterfall itself, which roars day and night with unrelenting force, the friendship between China and Vietnam flows steadily forward, rooted in shared history, nourished by daily exchanges, and renewed by each generation. Dans la meme rubrique : < > A Chinese hero remembered in reverence Shanghai FTZ experience spurs innovation-driven growth through institutional reform They Leave to Uplift, Not to Escape: How Migration Sustains Lesothos Quiet Villages Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) As Jews worry about the ascent of Zohran Kwame Mamdani and his monstrous ideas, we are reminded of our history. Mamdani is yet another example in the irrational rabid hatred of Jews, Judaism, and Jewish survival. Mahmood Mamdani, the father of Zohran, sits on the board of the anti-Israel organization The Gaza Tribunal and once wrote that suicide bombers should be considered soldiers. Mahmood Mamdani, the Herbert Lehman Professor of Government at Columbia University, is one of The Gaza Tribunals 29-member advisory policy council, alongside former British Labour Party MP Jeremy Corbyn. The organization aims to awaken civil society to its responsibility and opportunity to stop Israels genocide in Gaza by exerting civil society pressure on governments to act. The apple does not fall far from the tree. Zohran Mamdani, who is authentic, according to members of the Democrat party, is really a derivative of the devil. On October 7, 2023, Hamas baked Israeli infants alive. Gazans screamed in delight as Jewish women and men were gang-raped and grotesquely mutilated in sadistically sexual ways. Yet there is nary a word from the man who wants to preside over the 1.3 million Jews in the New York metropolitan area. Moreover, Mamdanis mother, Mira Nair, is an Indian-American, Oscar-nominated film director, producer, and writer. Like her husband, she supports the Boycott, Divestment, & Sanctions (BDS) movement dedicated to Israels permanent dissolution as a Jewish state. She claims that Israel is an apartheid state, which is patently false. Yet constantly the lie is repeated. Paranoia is the shadow of the Jews. We are encumbered with memories that need no dates, for they are unremitting. We strive to believe, yet it seems as though the concentration camp chimneys loom in the background. Zohran Mamdanis campaign has the earmarks of a foreign influence operation that works to kill Jews. Moreover, Mamdani refused to sign on to a pair of resolutions recognizing Israel and the Holocaust. In 2017, Mamdani released a rap song titled Salam, in which he praised the so-called Holy Land Five leaders of the now-defunct Holy Land Foundation for Relief and Development, a pseudo-charity that was in fact a terrorist ally of Hamas. What perverse instinct is in mankind that it cannot tolerate differences? Would the Genome Project be able to pinpoint the DNA that assures mutual respect for one another? Indeed, as Wislawa Szymborska wrote, See how efficient [hatred] still is ... how rapidly it pounces, tracks us down. In fact, during his years at Bowdoin (20102014), Mamdani co-founded the schools chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), an anti-Israel advocacy group that supports the Hamas-inspired BDS movement. As Jews, our history beckons us with indelible memories. The emergence of Zohran Mamdani and the acceptance of his vile anti-Semitism make for serious trepidation in us. As Americans, we fear for our beloved country. In fact, in June 2025, Republican Rep. Andy Ogles (Tennessee) wrote a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging the Department of Justice to investigate Mamdani under 8 U.S.C. 1451(a), a law that permits the revocation of a persons naturalized citizenship if he or she is found to have concealed or lied about associations with terrorist groups during the naturalization process. Even the basic instinct of self-preservation is debased in this world of shadows and darkness. How can parents of suicide-homicide bombers spur on their own flesh and blood to carry out such heinous acts? Yet Mamdani marinated in this ideology. Banality of evil there is nothing banal about this evil. It is the netherworld of an act that haunts Jews everywhere. Why dont the Arab mothers cry out to stop the bloodshed? Why dont they comfort Ishmael, the child still crying in the desert? No. Instead, they collect the blood money and honor this culture of death, and Mamdani supports this travesty. Furthermore, we recoil with horror at Mamdanis embrace of socialism, which always leads to communism. The concept of America as a promised land draws parallels to the land promised to the Israelites. It is why America and Israel are so closely aligned. In fact, one cannot understand the American political tradition and its articulations though time without understanding Americas relationship with the five Books of Moses. The Hebraic worldview has contributed to the American moral language of liberty.[1] But Mamdani is a candidate that openly advocates for philosophical principles and positions that are fundamentally hostile to the [American] founding. And the term Democratic Socialism is invented by Democrats who love euphemisms. The reality is that the socialist regime and their central planning under the guidance of the Communist Party have never been successful at anything except oppressing the masses, paying them the lowest wages possible, and making their lives a continuous misery for most of the twentieth century. They never supplied enough goods to keep their citizens well fed, happy, warm in winter, with a plentiful supply of water, medications, and other necessities for a decent life. The only ones who lived well were the Communist Party members, their apparatchiks, their informers, the standing army, and the security police. Our young have been deliberately misled and simply are ignorant of the fact that Over the past century, socialism has ruined more countries and regions than the Black Plague: Cuba, Venezuela, Argentina, Eastern Europe, Russia, North Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, China under Mao, Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia and the Peoples Republic of Newsom, which is poised to slide into the Pacific Ocean. Socialisms high points include Maos Great Leap Forward (30 million dead) and Cultural Revolution (10 million dead), the Ukrainian famine of the 1930s (3.9 million dead) and the Cambodian killing fields (death toll 2 million), all the horrifying result of procrustean attempts to reshape human nature. A communist is a socialist with a gun. A socialist is a communist before he gets a gun. Socialism results in stagnation, starvation, confiscation and mass emigration. Before the rise of Marxism, Venezuela was one of the wealthiest countries in South America. Now its economy is in ruins, its people are impoverished, 7.7 million have fled and a nation with the worlds largest proven oil reserves has rolling blackouts. And like any good leftist hypocrite, Mamdani, who has called for abolishing private property, actually owns land in Uganda! How many times does the energy of Satan need to be destroyed? Concern that we may be playing G-d with the advent of revolutionary artificial intelligence technology really misses the point. Man has already played G-d far too many times in the past, yet the moral compass keeps being ignored. But Israel is the bulwark. The Torah is the moral compass. The late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks said, The deepest question any of us can ask: Who am I? To answer it, we have to go deeper than where do I live? Or what do I do? The most fateful moment in [his] life came when [he] asked [himself] that question and knew the answer had to be: I am a Jew. This is why. I am a Jew because ... I am the descendant of countless generations of ancestors who, though sorely tested and bitterly tried, remained faithful to that covenant when they might so easily have defected. Mamdani and his ilk need to be exposed, refuted, denied, and deported. Eileen be reached at middlemarch18@gmail.com. Check out her new book, titled Won Ton is Not Now Backwards. Available at Amazon, it is a collection of very short stories and a book that parents, grandparents, speech therapists, and young people will find useful and enjoyable. Hat Tip: SM. [1] Proclaim Liberty Throughout the Land: The Hebrew Bible in the United States: A Sourcebook. Ed. Meir Y. Soloveichik et al., 2019. Image: Zohran Mamdani. Credit: Bingjiefu He via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Like television serial killer Dexter Morgan in yet another improbable reboot, Barack Obama keeps getting resurrected by the legacy media not as he was, but as the character they need him to be. With their full cooperation, he has carefully crafted a public image tailored to middle-of-the-road sensibilities one that conceals the more radical and uncomfortable truths about his early life. His latest reflections on his relationship with Lawrence Goldyn, his gay college professor at Occidental, are no exception. According to Obama, Goldyn was a kind-hearted intellectual who helped broaden his perspective on gay people. But I knew both men during that era, and I can say with confidence: This is not the full story not even close. When I met Barack Obama during his sophomore year at Occidental College in December 1980, he struck me as a quiet, intensely self-conscious young man. Unlike most of the male students I encountered, he showed no apparent interest in women. In fact, my immediate impression was that he was gay. Its no surprise to me that Obama chose Lawrence Goldyn as his academic adviser. Goldyn, openly gay and politically active, was known on campus as a trusted figure among gay and lesbian students. He wasnt just a professor; he was part of a broader network of support for students wrestling with their sexual identity. Unlike the other professors in young Obamas orbit, Goldyn was not a Marxist. Although Occidental employed him as an assistant professor of political science, his most memorable role was that of an in-your-face sexual revolutionary. For that very reason, I remember thinking Occidental made the right call when it denied him tenure in 1981. Obamas recent comments suggest that Goldyn enlightened him on gay identity. But this spin is merely a gentle pirouette designed to distract us from a more substantial pattern. Obama didnt need anyone to explain gay culture to him; he was already immersed in it. According to Mia Marie Pope, who claims she knew Obama while he was a student at the exclusive Punahou School in Hawaii, he was frequently in the company of older white gay men and seemed completely at ease in that world. Obamas mentor back then, Frank Marshall Davis a known Communist Party member authored a book under a pseudonym that included graphic bisexual scenes. These were the kinds of influences Obama had before he ever set foot on Occidentals rose-covered quad. We also have Obamas bizarre poem Pop, published in 1981, full of unsettling references to amber stains and smell his smell connectivity an earthy piece some have interpreted as a veiled account of sexual intimacy with an older man. Thanks to presidential historian David Garrow, weve learned that Obama wrote letters to his then-girlfriend Alex McNear in which he openly discussed his same-sex desires. Former classmates also recall his metrosexual style, soft voice, and emotional distance from women. This wasnt a guy discovering gay identity through a class it was someone already deep in the experience, possibly trying to make sense of it all. The Goldyn story is just one more example of Obama rewriting his past to fit a more electable narrative. Just as he airbrushed his Marxist sympathies, blurred his religious convictions, and replaced real individuals with fictional composites in Dreams from My Father, here he repackages an adviser-student relationship to appear as a moment of enlightened tolerance when in fact it may have been something far more personal. Let me be clear: Im not interested in shaming Obama for his sexuality, whatever it may be. I am simply done with the absurd, unrepentant, self-curated mythmaking. If a conservative candidate had maintained this level of personal obfuscation on issues of sexuality, ideology, or even basic biography the press would have diced him up as quickly as Dexter Morgan logs a souvenir blood sample. Meanwhile, the legacy media let Obama escape the truth of his past the same way the law enforcement officers do in Dexter: Resurrection by misreading every clue that points to guilt, simply because the show must go on and the franchise must be protected. The real Obama chose Lawrence Goldyn for the same reason other gay and questioning students did: because he felt a personal connection, not because he needed an education in tolerance. Thats not a crime. But pretending otherwise is part of a larger deception: the effort to protect Obamas personal credibility and to prevent any alteration in how he is portrayed in U.S. history as Americas first post-racial technocrat, rather than someone who intentionally rebranded to achieve power. John C. Drew, Ph.D. is a political scientist and former college professor who earned his doctorate in government from Cornell University. As a young Marxist, he met and debated Barack Obama in 1980. His firsthand account of Obamas early ideological views has been cited in Rising Star (2017) by David Garrow and Radical-In-Chief (2010) by Stanley Kurtz and reported directly in Obamas True Legacy (2023), edited by Jamie Glazov. Image via Raw Pixel. When senior Obama officials demanded a new Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) in December 2016one month after Election Daythey were aware that dissenting voices existed within the intelligence community (IC), as they sought to suppress them. One such voice came from a senior ODNI (Office of the Director of National Intelligence) analyst who spearheaded the September 12, 2016, ICA on cyber threats. His refusal to bend the facts rattled the intelligence apparatus. His voice had to be silenced. At the time, the Intelligence Communitys (IC) consensus was clear: foreign adversaries did not haveand probably would not soon gainthe capabilities to execute widespread and undetected cyberattacks on U.S. election infrastructure. This judgment drew upon a substantial body of classified analysis developed over time by experts monitoring cyber threats from Russia and other geopolitical adversaries. Then came a White House directiveissued on December 9, just one month after the 2016 presidential electiontasking the intelligence community with producing a new Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) on Russian election interference. This wasnt a routine update. It followed closely on the heels of a terminated intelligence product. Just hours earlier, a draft of the December 8 Presidents Daily Brief (PDB) had been quietly withdrawn, reportedly under protest from the FBI. That PDB had stated unequivocally that Russian and criminal actors did not impact recent U.S. election results by conducting malicious cyber activities against election infrastructure. Now, the directive that arrived in the DNIs inboxtitled POTUS Tasking on Russia Election Meddlingwas more than a request for a fresh look. It was a politically ordered deliverable. DNI Clapper now led a charged effort: to produce a new assessment that would ultimately sideline dissent, insert discredited material like the Steele dossier, and pivot the official conclusion to claim Russia acted with the intent to help Trump. This maneuver weaponized intelligence to weaken the incoming administration, fortifying concerns of politicized manipulation at the highest levels. The whistleblowerwho had played a leading role in the September analysiswas suddenly cut off from ICA communications. His earlier assessment was cast aside. Though he had been essential to the original effort, his professional judgment now conflicted with the new narrative, and he was treated as expendable. The framework for the new narrative was crafted not by objective analysts but by top political operatives in the Obama national security circle. Democrats claimed new intelligence in December 2016 justified the ICAs shift. But that argument collapses for two key reasons: First, the only known new input was the discredited Steele dossierpolitical opposition research tied to the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee and linked to a Russian oligarch. Second, if good-faith analytic updates drove the ICAs evolution, why were dissenting voices removed from the process? The sidelining of the ODNI whistleblowera veteran analyst with deep institutional knowledgeis a red flag. His findings were buried, his access cut off. This was not fact-driven deliberation but an effort to engineer a predetermined conclusion. The ICAs claim of a pro-Trump Russian preference stemmed not from rigorous analysis, but political intent. The whistleblower's core objection? The ICAs assertion that Putin personally preferred Trump and acted accordingly lacked factual basis. When he requested sourcing, his supervisor told him that he was not allowed to see it and needed to trust me on thisa weak and dubious standard that defied analytic rigor and professional intelligence tradecraft. At the time of drafting, the CIA and FBI knew Hillary Clinton had approved a planconveyed by her then-adviser Jake Sullivan (later former President Joseph Bidens National Security Advisor)to stir up a Trump-Russia scandal. As one senior official stated: Obama ordered the ICA to set Trump up and knock him off balance before he could even get started, said the official. This was an influence operation far more consequential than anything [Russian President Vladimir] Putin cooked up. Obama and Hillary [Clinton] schemed the op, and the CIA and FBI ran it. On January 6, 2017the day Congress certified Trumps winthe ICA was publicly released, asserting that Russia acted to help Trump win. But dissenting analysts had been marginalized, and the FBI and NSA expressed only low confidence in linking Russian actions to pro-Trump intentomissions that were buried from the public report. The whistleblower was stunned three years later in 2019, when FOIA disclosures revealed that the Steele dossierlong discreditedhad influenced the ICA. Until then, it was his understanding that DNI Clapper believed the dossier was untrustworthy. That belief made Clappers role in directing a revised ICA, which ultimately incorporated elements of the Steele dossier, even more alarming. In one internal email, the whistleblower pushed back firmly: As for the 2017 ICAs judgment of a decisive Russian preference for then-candidate Donald Trump, he wrote, I could not concur in good conscience based on information available, and my professional analytic judgment. Meanwhile, CIA Director Brennan demanded inclusion of the dossier despite objections, writing: My bottom line is that I believe that the information warrants inclusion in the report. And this episode was not isolated. As noted above, the FBI, under the leadership of Director James Comey, withdrew from the December 8 PDB and planned a formal dissent, asking that their co-authorship seal be removed. This action followed a heads-up that the PDB would be released the next day due to high administration interest. The White House then intervened and scrapped the draft altogether. The Comey-led FBI reversed course shortly thereafter and aligned with the CIAs purported conclusion of alleged Russian interference on behalf of Donald Trump. This alignment occurred only after a key meeting between Comey, Clapper, and CIA Director Brennan. In plain terms: seasoned analysts with subject-matter expertise and dissenting views were excluded, a discredited partisan document was embedded into the assessment, and a hollow consensus was conjured by senior operatives within the Obama national security apparatus. This contrived assessment was then laundered into authoritative intelligence by political sleight of handmarketed not merely as the consensus of the intelligence community, but as unassailable truth. In fact, it reversed earlier findings and violated the professional standards of the very analysts deliberately excluded from the process. And to what end? To destroy Donald J. Trump. Why does this matter nearly a decade after the 2016 election? Because what emerged was not an intelligence product, but an engineered narrativeone crafted not to enlighten the American people, but to deceive them. It undermined public faith in our elections, corroded the credibility of our intelligence institutions, bolstered adversarial foreign regimes, and ratcheted up hostilities between nuclear powers. And it did so with a single purpose: to sabotage the duly elected President before he could take office. Dissent was buried. Truth was manipulated. The American people were misled. This was political warfare masquerading as national securityand treachery posing as patriotism. Its impact is far-reaching and will be long-lasting. And the damageso far unpunishedremains incalculable. Its very success makes it all the more likely to be repeated and will only embolden the enemies of constitutional governance at home and abroad. Ultimately, it was a far greater, and far graver, assault on the Republic than anything dreamed up by the Kremlin. Part I showed how the narrative flipped. This installment reveals who resisted, why they were a threat, and how their views were purged. The pattern is clearand the reckoning is just beginning. Charlton Allen is an attorney and former chief executive officer and chief judicial officer of the North Carolina Industrial Commission. He is founder of the Madison Center for Law & Liberty, Inc., editor of The American Salient, and host of the Modern Federalist podcast. His commentary has been featured in American Thinker and linked across multiple RealClear platforms, including RealClearPolitics, RealClearWorld, RealClearDefense, RealClearHistory, and RealClearPolicy. X: @CharltonAllenNC Image from Grok. July 23, 2025: Ukrainian political and military leaders have been working on a long-term solution to their Russian Problem. Russia and Ukraine will always be neighbors but they dont always have to be at war. Russian leader Vladimir Putin insists Russia will never give up seeking to conquer Ukraine. A growing number of Russians and most Ukrainians and NATO members believe that Russia cannot not sustain its Ukraine War effort over the long term or, at this point, even the short term. Putin recently admitted that the Russian economy was entering a period of difficulty. Thats an understatement, because the Russian economic situation continues to go from bad to much worse. The latest obstacle is the American plan to threaten nations that buy Russian oil with heavy sanctions unless they find another supplier. Russia sells its sanctioned oil at a discount using a fleet of several hundred smaller tankers optimized for smuggling. NATO nations, especially the United States, have been developing and testing ways to identify these tankers and put them out of business. Officially, Russia denies that this tanker fleet exists, so they wont make much of a public fuss over the loss of these ships. Even a partial decline in oil exports can be catastrophic for Russia because oil is their primary source of foreign currency needed to buy imports. Russia has already exhausted their emergency cash reserve and is operating day-to-day on hard currency they bring in via exports and barter. India, China and Iran are Russias primary partners. Iran has been neutralized and has problems taking care of its domestic needs. India does not want to be sanctioned by most of the world's major exporters. China is currently the worlds largest exporter but that status is under threat as foreign manufacturers pull out of China and long-term trading partners are suddenly looking for non-Chinese suppliers. Its becoming very expensive to remain a Russian trading partner. Since 2104, when Russia seized Crimea and portions of two east Ukrainian provinces the economic sanctions against Russia have been increasing. So while Putin insists, he will never stop his war with Ukraine, the rest of the world is diminishing Russian economic capabilities. Eventually Putin will have to pay attention to the increasingly dire state of the Russian economy. The Russian people are becoming more outspoken about the economic sacrifices they have been forced to endure so the Ukraine War can continue. Ukraine has far fewer economic problems and far more local and foreign resources. Ukraine is more likely to get economically stronger while Russia has problems hanging on to what it still has. The Ukraine War is a stalemate, with Russia continuing to suffer more casualties each day than Ukraine. Thats because Russia insists on continually attacking and losing soldiers it has a more difficult time obtaining. Russia tried to buy its way out of their soldier shortage and currently 20 percent of the governments annual budget goes to cash payments for new recruits, soldiers who were wounded and families of the dead troops. Putin fails to acknowledge that he has fewer options than his NATO-backed foe. The Ukrainians are taking advantage of this and Putin, so far, does not publicly admit the economic problems he has and he Ukrainians do not have. Political centralism doesnt come free of charge. On the path toward the United States of Europe, Brussels is entangling itself in a web of overreach, control mania, and interventionism. The invoice for this arrogance is being handed down to the outposts of Eurocracy. Celebration in Berlin. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz proudly presented what he called a comeback for Germanys depression-plagued economy this Monday. Under the deeply original (read: painfully cliched) slogan Made for Germany, 60 of the countrys top corporations showcased their already planned investments as a kind of aggregated act of economic liberation. Germany is back, Merz posted on X -- grandiose, juvenile, and more cringe-inducing than inspiring. Germany is bleeding out The reality of the German economy paints a different picture. The labor market has already tipped into decline, with more than 100,000 industrial jobs set to be eliminated this year. A record wave of bankruptcies and a dramatic capital flight round out the portrait of an economic policy in freefall. How far Merzs corporate pep rally strays from the economic facts is made clear by the countrys net direct investment figures: In 2024, Germany saw 64.5 billion in net capital leave the country. In 2023, it was 67.3 billion; in 2022, a staggering 112.2 billion. Germany is bleeding. And the real scandal is this: the countrys political leadership and, for practical purposes, lets call them its economic elite, refuse to speak about the true causes of this collapse. A summit truly Made for Germany would call for an exit from the suicidal green policy agenda. It would advocate a drastic reduction in bureaucracy and regulatory coercion, a return to affordable Russian gas, and the revival of nuclear power -- the pillars of any serious industrial policy. Contrast this PR stunt with the hard numbers, and it becomes obvious why the event faded into oblivion -- uninspired, flat, and quickly archived as another placebo moment of postmodern politics. The Brussels Bill Merz, for his part, was likely already preoccupied with another headache. While he toasted in Berlin, half of Europe was reacting to the ballooning budget proposal by his party colleague, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. She had just introduced her draft for the EUs Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028 to 2034: a whopping 1.82 trillion. No one can accuse Brussels of lacking ambition. 100 billion is earmarked to keep the proxy war in Ukraine afloat, while another 650 billion is slated for the EUs green subsidy machine -- a lifeline for its artificial eco-economy. The proposed budget would increase by 750 billion, or nearly 50%. Unlike Chinas five-year plans, the EU dreams in seven-year cycles. A true central planners paradise. If enacted, this mega-budget would trigger a massive increase in member-state contributions -- with Germany, as usual, stuck with the lions share. Based on its economic size, Germany would be expected to contribute around 25% of the total, or approximately 450 billion. For comparison: Germany currently pays around 30 billion annually into the EU budget and receives 14 billion in return -- a net loss of 16 billion per year. Under the new framework, Berlins net contribution could rise to as much as 50 billion per year -- more than triple todays level. The Spiral of Debt Accelerates Cynics might argue that Germany could absorb the extra debt without much fuss. After all, Berlin is planning to borrow 90 billion next year anyway -- whats another 26 billion? Relative to GDP, its just a 0.6% bump in spending. A small price to pay for stabilizing Europes central authority. In the lingo of German politics: a Democracy Tax. And since no one in Brussels or Berlin seems to care about the Maastricht debt rules anymore, the path is clear for another round of debt-financed Euro-socialism. Merz, together with von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron, is united in the belief that consolidating power within Brussels is the only way to keep Europe geopolitically relevant. Merz is increasingly revealing himself as a committed central planner. With him, there will be no market-based reset -- no return to constitutional economics. The End of the Veto Right The German governments current budget plan shows that Berlin is on board. The crisis will be managed through massive borrowing and state-directed investment of fictitious capital. To resolve Brussels budget dilemma, we can expect a two-pronged solution: new EU taxes and increased national contributions. Ill go ahead and predict whats coming: in the next few months, we will see a coordinated push to eliminate the veto rights of individual EU member states in budget negotiations. Let Viktor Orban stomp his feet in Budapest all he wants -- the advance of European-style socialism wont be stopped by ox or donkey. One imagines CDU members quietly humming the Internationale under their breath. Once that veto hurdle is cleared, national debts could be pooled under the umbrella of the EU Commission, monetized via the European Central Bank, and camouflaged by a digital Euro -- all in an effort to halt the economic hemorrhaging of the Eurozone. The Ukraine conflict serves as the ideal justification for this massive wave of public credit creation. Delusion vs. Dissent Such are the fantasies of the Eurocrats. Thankfully, reality tends to defy ideology. As a conservative backlash slowly stirs across Europe, it is highly unlikely that Brussels will face the next fiscal crisis without resistance. That resistance will either restrain the EUs fiscal adventurism -- or trigger the collapse of this increasingly fragile house of cards. Image: O.Horbacz The popular slogan From the river to the sea is chanted by Arab Palestinian supporters, and many from the political left wing have picked up on it. The statement thus implies a Jew-free Middle East. Hitlers dream was a Jew-free Europe. Where will 7 million Jews go this time, new gas chambers? And the media, publishing Hamas propaganda that creates the murderous hatred of Jews, is largely to blame. Its a flashback to the 1930s, where Nazis are now replaced by Islamists and the left to complete the new extermination of Jews; the left with its media handles the propaganda, the Islamists the execution. Why is Hamass false propaganda information about genocide accepted without any scrutiny? Recently, a young activist said to me with glowing passion that Israel murdered 51,000 children in Gaza. Claims like this create new Jewish hatred. I tried to explain in vain that the information is directly from Hamas. The facts are that Hamas forces Arab Palestinian children back to the houses Israel has warned in advance that theyre planning to bomb as they hunt Hamas butchers, the same Hamas that routinely uses civilians as human shields. Politicians, why dont you act? Tomorrow is too late. Use the full weight of the law to hold the news media accountable for inciting violence against a group of people and reporting on a genocide that doesnt exist. Set up a committee to investigate the media outlets. Carefully register all false or misleading news reporting regarding Israel. If decision-makers can be prosecuted, let it be. Create a more healthy and truthful, objective news reporting. Realize the real danger here. The goal of the countries surrounding Israel is actually the extermination of the state of Israel and every Jew. Iran has long had the annihilation of Israel on its agenda, which they are trying to complete by producing nuclear weapons. Hamas would gleefully carry out the massacre of the Jews on October 7 on a scale a thousand times larger. The democratic country of Israel, which has had a three-thousand-year history and existence in its tiny territory, is trying to survive, surrounded by land masses 100 times larger, with hostile dictatorships and hundreds of millions of Jew-hating Muslims. Hamass reporting of alleged, distorted, or completely false events in Gaza has thus been published without objective criticism, and Israel and its Jews have been demonizeda strategy well-known from Nazi Germanyso that the outside world can accept a new extermination of the Jews. Both Hamass and Irans ideology includes being able to sacrifice their own population for the sake of the cause, and to lie unbridled in achieving their goals. They sacrifice their people by using them for propaganda purposes. The question every politician and news provider now needs to ask themselves, beyond all false smokescreens. Can I go to sleep, with the possibility of having participated in the extermination of 7 million Jews? Image: Free image, Pixabay license. Democrat frontrunner for 2028 Pete Buttigieg, is the kind of guy who could give California's Gov. Gavin Newsom or Los Angeles's mayor, Karen Bass, a run for the money. Amid news of an aircraft near collision over North Dakota, following a disastrous similar military-civilian crash in Washington, D.C. in January, we learn this about how he ran the cabinet office he headed, the U.S. Department of Transportation. MUST READ: Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg failed to replace outdated air-traffic-control systems while in office with his agency instead shelling out tens of billions of dollars on a DEI agenda, according to federal spending records and airline-industry pic.twitter.com/HEJ5XZj6Vc Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) July 21, 2025 So while he was 'breast-feeding' his twins and telling us about his 'husband,' what with the move to Traverse City, he was not only not showing up for work during critical supply chain crises (remember that?) when ships backed up to enter ports, or berating airlines for 'price gouging' and inefficiencies, he had billions of dollars to play around with and decided to spend it on DEI, not air traffic safety upgrades. When the plane-helicopter crash happened over the Potomac in January after a DEI female pilot ignored the instructions of her instructor, and President Trump was blamed for the whole scenario, despite being in office for days, the real culprit was Buttigieg, who had his air traffic controllers using Pacman-like air traffic technology dating from literally the Carter era, as the Post report notes. And this is the best the Democrats have to offer for 2028. It's about time Congress calls him on the carpet for just why all that cash went to DEI and who benefited. This jerk wasn't serving the American people. He was serving his party -- and himself. Image: X video screen shot The word genocide comes from geno, the Greek for race, and cide, the Latin for kill. That is, kill the race. The word genocide didnt exist before World War II. Instead, in 1944, Raphael Lemkin, a Polish Jew who fled the Holocaust, coined it to describe what the Germans were doing to the Jewish population. It was, we thought, a unique evil, but now, in a horrible irony, accusations of genocide are being hurled at the Jews to justify another genocide against the Jews. We need to talk numbers here. Before World War II, there were approximately 9.5 million Jews in Europe. As everyone knows, the best guess is that 6 million Jews were slaughtered during the Holocaust (63% of the Jewish population). Thats a kill rate of approximately 2,850 Jews per day throughout the war. Image created using AI. But even thats not the real story, though. The Final Solution occurred not over the full five-and-a-half years of the war, but only for about three years of the war, so the kill rate was roughly 6,000 Jews per day from 1942 through wars end. To give you a better sense of proportion, on September 11, 2001, we lost 2,977 people out of a nation of 280 million people. I bet you canas I still dofeel the overwhelming sense of loss when you contemplate that single day. And if you want to add an it almost happened hypothetical to the Holocaust death toll, think about this: If Allied forces hadnt defeated Rommel at the Second Battle of El Alamein in October and November of 1942, the Nazis and Arabs would have joined together and massacred the almost 500,000 Jews who were living in British-Mandate Palestine (now Israel) at the time. So, thats what an actual genocide looks like. Now lets look at whats been happening in Gaza. Im using ChatGPT numbers for this, but I believe theyre roughly accurate. In 1967, the year Israel won Gaza from Egypt in the Six-Day War, Gazas population was slightly fewer than 393,000 Arabs. In 2005, when Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza, its population was 1.4 million Arabs. If Israel was ethnically cleansing the place during its years in control, it did a lousy job. In 2022, Gazas population was slightly over 2 million people, so living adjacent to Israel hadnt harmed its growth. No genocide there either Even though Gaza civilians joined in the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, gleefully assisting in the rape, torture, slaughter, and kidnapping of Israeli civilians, and have since participated in their ongoing torture and imprisonment, Israel has waged war in a way never before seen. Yes, Israel has waged war aggressively against Hamas, a military enemy. Nevertheless, aware that its enemy has embedded itself deep within the civilian population, it has done everything possible to minimize civilian casualties, even when doing so risks its troops. Unlike Hamas, it never deliberately targets civilians, and it always weighs collateral damage in its military plans. And of course, Israel has shipped thousands of tons of supplies to an enemy population. Can you imagine the Allies feeding the German population during World War II? Nobody in the history of war has fed the enemy population (or at least, tries to feed it)! You win a war, as Sherman knew, by demoralizing the population, not by sustaining it. If Israel really were interested in committing genocide, it would have leveled Gaza with a few strikes. We know it could have, because weve seen what it did in Iran, where, again, it avoided civilian casualties. Israels technology is so sophisticated that nothing would have stopped it from wiping out Gaza in an afternoon. (And for purposes of this post, were pretending that Gazans are a race, rather than just a community of Arabs, of whom there are 250,000,000 in the world.) As to how many Gazans have died in the war, its impossible to tell. The Gaza health ministry is part of Hamas, so its data are propaganda. However, even accepting its claimed 59,000 deaths, thats only 2.95% of the Gaza population at the start of the war. As a reminder, the Nazis had managed to eradicate 63% of Europes Jews before WWII ended. This is not a genocide by any definition. Indeed, by any definition of war, this is a strikingly low civilian death rate during a hot war in a densely populated urban environment. (And recall that the reasonable presumption is that most deaths are, in fact, military.) And what have Jews gotten for this remarkable care and self-sacrifice? Bubkes! This revolting Wikipedia article sums up all the nations and organizations accusing Israel of genocide. Just today, the NY Times ran an essay entitled A Genocide Scholar on the Case Against Israel: An Israeli historian answers his critics and explains why his home countrys conduct in Gaza constitutes genocide. I wont dignify this drek by saying any more about it. Actually, theyve gotten nothing. By being accused of genocide, theyre once again being lined up for...genocide. Why? Well, ask yourself this: Whats the cure for a genocidal nation? You destroy it, of course. How do you destroy it? You globalize the intifada. In other words, the cure for the Big Lie that Israel is committing a genocide of the Gazan people is the genocide of the Jews. Somewhere in Hell, Hitler laughs. From the political trenches of Texas: Texas Republicans Ready to Redistrict Congressional Seats The DOJ identified four districtsthree in the Houston area and one in Dallas-Fort Worthas majority-minority coalition districts that are based on combinations of different racial groups whose main commonality is that they vote for Democrats. A 2024 federal court ruling in a redistricting case known as Petteway v. Galveston County established that districts based on coalitions of minority groups are not protected by the Voting Rights Act. Governor Abbots new legislative session will now address redistricting the U.S. House of Representatives for the 2026 midterm elections under the new court rulings. Given the Republican Partys difficulties with voter turnout in midterm elections, this is an opportunity to save us from a Democrat-controlled House during the last two years of President Trumps term. One traditionally Democrat seat, TX-18, is vacant and targeted for redistricting. The DOJ also identified TX-09 and TX-29 in the Houston area, and TX-33 in Dallas-Fort Worth, as constitutionally suspect coalition districts. Since a large majority of Texas legislators are Republicans, the uninformed may hope this is a slam dunk gain for MAGA. Not so in the real world. A huge obstacle is Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows. While he may have an R after his name, hes a Democrat all the way. The establishment Republicans (thats spelled RINOs) who wanted to keep real conservative Republicans (thats spelled MAGA) out of power, so instead of uniting with the majority and catering to America First members, they went full Benedict Arnold in betraying the Republican Party and Republican voters and worked with the Democrats to elect Burrows earlier this year: After a monthslong battle within the Republican party for the seat, Burrows emerged with the gavel in hand thanks in large part to Democrats. A majority of Republicans supported Cook of Mansfield. Burrows victory was not celebrated universally among Republicans. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who leads the Texas Senate, said Burrows was handed the speakership by Democrats. My strong prediction is that the legislatures commie Democrats and RINO Republicans will accomplish one of two things: Redistricting legislation is killed and does not happen, or, A new redistricting plan is a performance, allowing Democrats to keep all their current seats and perhaps flip one or two current GOP seats. I live in one of the districts in question. I would love the chance to, finally, be represented by someone other than a hand-picked Democrat sock-puppet, but something tells me its a pipe dream. Image from Grok. For myriad reasons, Im not fond of traveling, not the least of which is that traveling in the 21st century is such a horrible shlep. Having said that, I am a very well-traveled person. That means that Ive visited more than my share of places that UNESCO has tagged as world heritage sites, and every time I see that designation, my hackles go up. Thats why I was just thrilled to see that Trump has dumped UNESCO (again). The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization was formed out of the wreckage of WWII to bind humankind together and prevent future world wars. The thinking was that if the worlds nations could find common ground and work together for the common good, future wars would be prevented. Image created using ChatGPT It was Disneys Small World ride as global policy. And let me just say here that I love Disneys Small World ride. I know its kitschy and painful for some, but I still love that 1960s hopeful aesthetic. However, a Disney ride will not override human nature, and it most certainly will not destroy communism or radical Islam. My contact with UNESCO, as noted above, has been those darned world heritage sites. Any major tourist attraction has gotten this UNESCO tag. Whether its Westminster Abbey, at the heart of Britain since the 13th century; Notre Dame, at the heart of France since the 14th century; Masada, integrally tied to Israel since the 1st century BC...it doesnt matteraccording to UNESCO, they all belong to the world. Thats always been my personal irritant because its a lie. They dont belong to the world. They belong to the unique cultures that built them. People from other parts of the world visit them to admire the works of those creative cultures, not because the world can lay claim to them. But Donald Trump has a much more important beef with UNESCO, and thats the fact that, like the rest of the United Nations, its an anti-American, antisemitic, pro-Chinese, pro-Islamic institution that nevertheless gets the biggest chunk of its funding from America. And let me reiterate that part about it being antisemitic, something the Wall Street Journal, to its credit, pointed out in an editorial: For years Unesco has pushed an anti-Israel agenda that would be at home at university encampments. At an April meeting of its executive board, Unesco considered the issue of occupied Palestine while referring to Israel as the occupying power. Unesco has been non grata with President Trump since he pulled the U.S out of the cultural agency during his first term over its recognition of the state of Palestine. It tells you a great deal about the Democrat party that the Biden Administration, in 2023, rejoined UNESCO and gave it $600 million in taxpayer dollars. But its not just antisemitism. UNESCO has been pushing the whole leftist panoply of anti-Western garbage, using our money to push Marxist ideas. The point, as with the rest of the UN, is to destroy the Western nation that funds itthat would be America. Lets hope that three and a half years without American money kills the institution. And, if its not completely dead by that time, lets hope that another Republican president gets elected and completes the job. Rikki Schlott at the New York Post reported yesterday on the results of a new poll from the Cato Institute and YouGov which revealed that 62% of Gen Z kids (ages 1829) held a favorable view of socialism while 34% held a favorable view of communism. Can these young Americans define or recognize either of these systems by the actual (rotten) fruits of their harvests? I guarantee thats a big fat no, but it doesnt matter, because theyre voting for it anyway. These are the evil morons, getting other evil morons (like Omar Fateh and Zohran Mamdani), through the Democrat primaries, and God forfend, the general election. I wonder what it is about these ideologies they view so favorably? Could it be sentiments expressed in The Communist Manifesto about how despotic inroads on the rights of property is one of the most basic components of a communist revolution? Is it the hundreds of millions of mutilated and dead bodies littered across time and space they like so much? Do they relish in the treatment of Ivan Moiseyev, a young Christian drafted into the Red Army, who was tortured and eventually murdered for his faith by his superiors? Military officials told Ivans family that hed died in a drowning accident, but when his father opened the coffin, it revealed that Ivan had taken repeated beatings, his chest had been burned with an iron, and his heart had been punctured at least six times. (Vanya was so disfigured, his own mother didnt even recognize him.) What is it about race communists burning ilttle boys alive in pots of boiling water do they find so favorable? Communist ideologues that overtly encourage violence like the story below are favorable political systems? The brutal reality of farm murders in South Africa documented: The murder of Attie (40), Wilna (36) and little Wilmien Potgieter (2) in the vicinity of Lindley Support AfriForum in our fight to expose the truth about farm murders here: https://t.co/WDqnaluaAm pic.twitter.com/0K59Mrz9aG Conscious Caracal (@ConCaracal) July 2, 2025 The horrors of Bolshevism are a favorable path to pursue political goals? Turning a first world nation (Rhodesia) into a third world nation (Zimbabwe) is a favorable outcome for governance? They favor governments that sanction the murder of whites (Rhodesia and South Africa) because whites have the audacity to exist and produce? Communist politicians who install picture windows into their government offices to watch executions, and communist executioners who make cufflinks out of spent brass are favorable representations of their voters? One cannot even begin to cover the endless atrocities committed by socialists and communists (I didnt even get to say anything about Southeast Asia and China)theres a reason that The Black Book of Communism is more than 750 pages long and barely makes a dent in communisms history. Image generated by AI. President Trump ran for office to Make America Great Again. He wanted our borders respected, our language restored, and our culture reinvigorated. He is accomplishing all three at breakneck speed. Even his foreign policy forays are working in the United States best interest. Peace in the Middle East, fighting for every chance to bring peace to the Russia-Ukraine war, and weakening Chinas globalism are big wins for America. Speaking of borders, language, and culture, President Trump has another chance to make history to eliminate pirate forces; undermine Islamic fundamentalism; and establish his bona fides as a peace-maker, a deal-maker, and a nation-builder who doesnt send young American men to die in pointless wars. This potential diplomatic measure wouldnt cost him anything but a simple declaration. President Trump, its time to recognize Somaliland as a separate, sovereign country from Somalia. Somaliland, judging by the name, has close kinship with Somalia. The failed state, home to vile modern-day pirates who have waged war on tourists and shipping lanes alike, has stifled the efforts of its northern neighbors to break away officially and obtain the rights reserved among all other nations in the world. And yet Somaliland, for all intents and purposes, is its own country. First, some background. Somaliland existed as a British protectorate until 1960, when it was granted freedom from the mother country. The French Somali region also won independence and became Djibouti. The Italians controlled the southern section of the Eastern Horn of Africa, which became a free Somalia following caretaker status under the United Nations. The former British and Italian dominions joined together in 1960, but Somaliland (in the northwestern section) was getting the short end of an already short stick under the dictatorship of Mohamed Siad Barre. Civil war broke out (and hasnt ended!), and Somaliland broke away in 1991. For over thirty years, Somaliland has existed as a quasi-independent state. They have their own government, currency, and military. Unlike its failed state neighbors, Somaliland has retained considerable order and stability. The country has enjoyed ethical elections and peaceful transitions of power. They have forged strong relationships with the United States and the United Kingdom. They are growing their relationships with other African states, including Ethiopia. They just dont have official status...yet. President Trump needs to take the lead on this and recognize Somaliland as an official country. This move has a number of benefits for the United States, somewhat mirroring the wins for the United States following the brokerage of peace agreements with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo: President Trump would assert American influence and dominance in the region. Global power players insist on playing timid, despite the great power and authority granted to them by their voters or the power structures in their respective countries. Trump has not been afraid to think big, ask bigger, and get the biggest deal possible to benefit the United States. Stepping in and asserting the will and interest of a local people group to their own nation will bolster Americas resurgence on the world stage. Supporting a stable region by offering it official recognition will help stem the migrant crisis overwhelming Europe and the United States. Instead of dishonoring failed states or pushing away the rising tides of teeming masses, why not provide support to breakaway regions that can run their affairs without too much trouble, and provide those regions as alternative refugee destinations? President Trump is deporting illegal aliens to South Sudan. He could work out a deal with Somaliland to receive them, too. Supporting the creation of an independent Somaliland would press the rest of the Eastern Horn of Africa to get its act together. If Somalia wont take the hint, the United States could abandon its dubious military standing in Somalia and invest its military operations in the new country. Trumps move would further destabilize Islamic militancy in the region. As an added bonus, recognizing Somaliland would irritate Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-Somalia) and her fellow progressive anti-colonialist adherents, who have pledged to stop further independence efforts from the breakaway region. There are some concerns from national leaders and power brokers in Africa and throughout the rest of the world. If President Trump recognizes this separated region, how will the other separatist groups in Africa, Europe, and elsewhere respond? They will start clamoring for recognition, fire up their military operations, and engage in more subversive tactics to undermine their home countries. Recognizing one stable region could lead to more instability. Trump and other nations can navigate these concerns fairly easily. Somaliland has already established much of the key infrastructure needed for any country to stand on its own. Somaliland is an independent state, in contrast to the relentless dysfunction and destruction of the Republic of Somalia. Many breakaway militias and separatist groups in other regions around the world do not have similar infrastructures in place. Aside from diligent partisans who hold meetings dreaming of their own separate country, the widespread separatist groups dont have anything else in place. Trump could allay all fears by saying to other regions clamoring for independent recognition (Catalonia, Eastern Ukraine, Gaza, and Judea and Samaria): When you can build yourself up to be an independent state like Somaliland (with currency, military, and stable elections) in all but official recognition, give us a call. If Trump makes the Somaliland announcement this year, thirty-four years will have passed since the region broke away from Somalia as a whole. Trump could joke that other budding nations should take the same length of time! Nation-building can work in our favor if it doesnt cost us anything. This opportunity is too good to pass up, and President Biden refused to take advantage of something so easy to accomplish. Of course, no one respected him (not even his own staff, who did most of the governing). President Trump needs to step out and help establish the self-rule of this region. Image: www.horndiplomat via Wikimedia Commons, public domain. Simple narratives are employed to seduce a populace, and none is more seductive today than the promise of carbon-free energy. In California, a state often touted as a green pioneer, Gov. Gavin Newsom celebrated an achievement whose announcement was free of nuance and deficient of truth. Two-thirds of California's power now comes from renewable and zero-carbon electricity generation, he said, as if announcing an earthshaking milestone. This declaration, however, was a master class in deception. Newsom glosses over critical distinctions: First, the term should be carbon dioxide-free, not carbon-free, because the objective of the climate-obsessed is eliminating emissions of CO2 from human activity. Carbon, which evokes images of black soot, and carbon dioxide, an invisible, beneficial gas, are different molecules with their own chemical properties. And there is nothing renewable about Earths finite stores of metals, minerals and fuels necessary for making green energys equipment and infrastructure. Also, wind and solar systems, the darlings of Californias energy policy, may not emit carbon dioxide while generating electricity. However, their production, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal are energy-intensive and emit copious amounts of carbon dioxide, as does virtually every other industrial enterprise. Copper for wiring and electricity transmission lines is mined and smelted using fossil fuels. Transport and installation of these systems require diesel-powered trucks and other heavy machinery. Batteries used to back up intermittent wind and solar systems require lithium, cobalt, and nickel, all mined with the support of internal combustion engines and often by ethically questionable methods. The steel of the modern wind turbine and of the massive pillars supporting them are forged in coal-based blast furnaces. The gigantic blades are made of fiberglass and resins with heat and feedstock derived from petroleum. Foundations for these behemoths require vast quantities of cement, whose manufacture releases significant quantities of CO2. China produces over 80% of the world's polysilicon that make up solar panels. Polysilicon is often made close to coal-fired power plants because the manufacturing process requires so much energy. So, when a Chinese solar panel is installed in a California desert, it arrives with a massive carbon debt. Solar panel users, in effect, export their carbon emissions to China while patting themselves on the back for their green virtue. Although direct imports from China to the U.S. have been reduced to insignificant levels due to U.S. tariffs on Chinese solar modules, Chinese-linked firms have simply moved their operations to Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia. These nations -- and more than 131 solar producers there -- now account for over 80% of all solar modules imported into the U.S. It is likely that four in five solar modules installed in the U.S. come from Chinese-affiliated firms in southeast Asia, which depend on carbon-intensive energy sources. No honest engineer -- or careful speaker -- would call wind and solar "carbon-free." The cost of this green facade is a burden that Californias politicians refuse to acknowledge. California consistently ranks among the top five U.S. states for highest residential electricity prices. As of 2025, the average Californian pays over 30 cents per kilowatt-hour -- nearly double the national average. Other areas served by grids with a significant presence of wind and solar suffer from high prices as well. Claims that these green technologies are cheap are supported by a pricing calculation that does not count the costs of expensive backup power and the technical complexities they introduce to power systems. Consumers pay for the enormous costs of subsidies, infrastructure upgrades, storage systems, and alternative generation for windless and sunless periods. California also has been plagued by power outages and grid emergencies, especially during periods of high demand. Grid operators have had to issue repeated alerts, entreating residents to reduce electricity consumption to avoid rolling blackouts. The states so-called green leadership is supported by the deceptive advertisement of "zero-carbon" and false claims of low costs that ignore life-cycle environmental effects and the billions of dollars paid to compensate for the technical shortcomings of wind and solar. Every steel beam, copper coil, and polysilicon wafer tell the real story: Fossil fuels are still the backbone of modern electricity -- even in so-called renewable systems that cannot perform independently of them. Announcements about clean energy are just smoke and mirrors backlit by the glow of a coal-fired furnace in Asia and paid for by overcharged consumers. Vijay Jayaraj is a Science and Research Associate at the CO 2 Coalition, Fairfax, Virginia. He holds an M.S. in environmental sciences from the University of East Anglia and a postgraduate degree in energy management from Robert Gordon University, both in the U.K., and a bachelors in engineering from Anna University, India. Image: Kenueone Ever wonder what the internet will feel like when 5G is old news? 6G connectivity might sound like something from a distant future. However, major telecom players are already making incredible strides. Case in point: China Mobile, the largest wireless carrier in China, just demonstrated a jaw-dropping achievement in 6G download speeds. This is a technological milestone that could redefine our digital lives. During a recent conference, China Mobile announced a breakthrough in their small-scale 6G test network. Get this: they managed to download a 50GB file in a mere 1.4 seconds. To put that in perspective, thats like downloading a full two-hour 4K Blu-ray quality movie in about two seconds. Imagine the possibilities for streaming, gaming, and instant data transfers when those speeds become widely available. China Mobiles 6G tests yielded download speeds of up to 280 Gbps This incredible speed of 280 gigabits per second (Gbps) is roughly 14 times faster than the maximum theoretical bandwidth achievable with current 5G technology. Its the kind of speed that makes even top-tier wired connections look slow. China Mobile isnt just making headlines with impressive demos. Theyre heavily invested in shaping the future of wireless communication. The company has poured significant resources into research and development. More specifically, we are talking about figures reaching over $5.4 billion. Theyve also taken the lead in four major national scientific and technological projects, spearheading the development of what they consider the top ten essential 6G technologies. To facilitate this groundbreaking research, China Mobile has launched the worlds first small-scale 6G test network, which includes 10 dedicated sites. Their efforts also extend beyond terrestrial networks. In a move last year, they launched a satellite designed to transmit data at exceptionally high speeds from a lower Earth orbit. This low-latency satellite complements their overall strategy, aiming for comprehensive, high-speed connectivity. 6G connectivity isnt expected to be commercially available until around 2030. Some more optimistic predictions even suggest an earlier debut by 2028. Be that as it may, these early breakthroughs from companies like China Mobile offer us a sneak peek at what is to come. The race to 6G is clearly on, and its set to bring a new era of unprecedented internet speeds. Recent discovery changes our understanding of the construction of the Tower of Homage of the Moorish Castle The conservation works at the Moorish Castle are accompanied by a research programme that aims at obtaining as much information as possible about the monument and its evolution. Most discoveries add small nuggets of information that add to the picture. Sometimes the exploration takes us into a new level of understanding. This has happened very recently. Conservation works on the north-western side of the Tower of Homage required the erection of a scaffold. These works were delayed because common kestrels and jackdaws were found to be nesting in holes in this part of the tower. The delay paid dividends as both species bred successfully, the first time in many decades in the case of the jackdaws. With the end of the breeding season the scaffold was erected and conservation works commenced. It soon became clear that a hole that had been sealed on the mid-level battlements, which had been covered by a fig tree, and through which an electrical cable had been hung, was no ordinary opening in the battlements floor. Seeing this, the floor tiles which had been placed on the surface of the battlements during restoration works in the 1970s were removed from immediately above the hole. The opening was discovered to have been crafted deliberately in the construction style of the North African Merinids, who had enlarged the Tower in 1344. The repair and enlargement of the tower, to the size that we know it at present, happened at this time as Gibraltars defences were strengthened after the defeat of the combined Muslim forces of the North African Merinids and Granada Nasrids at the hands of the Castilians and Portuguese, west of the Rock. The purpose of the hole was that of a Murder Hole (a Meurtriere), typically a hole in the ceiling of a passageway in a fortification through which the defenders could shoot, throw or pour harmful substances or objects; these could have included rocks, arrows, boiling water or oil, hot sand, or quicklime. The location of the Murder Hole was highly significant, being situated directly above the only access door to the tower, which had been located there during the enlargement of the tower. This gave the hole added significance as it could have doubled-up in function to act as a Quenching Hole, through which water could be poured should the attackers set fire to the main door leading to the Tower. This defensive mechanism would only have worked if substances could be poured vertically down onto the space immediately outside the door itself. Without the hole, the space would have been a blind spot for the defenders. The peculiar shape of the Tower of Homage at its north-western end, with a passageway between the western and northern mid-level battlements, is now easily understood as the passageway was needed in order to locate the Murder Hole just above the towers entrance. This would have been the last line of defence. The finding also explains why the expansion of the tower northwards, to incorporate the covered stairwell, did not follow the line of the earlier tower to form a square. Instead, the recess allowed for the passageway, the Murder Hole and the location of the door directly below it. The Minister for Heritage, the Hon Prof John Cortes, said: "The value of the work being done at the Moorish Castle under the expert supervision of the Gibraltar National Museum goes beyond providing a better visitor site and is revealing new information giving insights into our fascinating but less well-known medieval history. The value of the Governments commitment to unlocking this work and proceeding with the restoration of the Moorish Castle is clearly benefitting the knowledge of our Heritage. Google could be planning to make the premium tiers of the Gemini assistant more affordable. The company already offers some Gemini features without any cost to all users. There are also the Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra paid plans, which provide access to more premium functionalities. The search titan could now launch a new Google AI Lite plan in the future, suggests a report. A more affordable Gemini plan could be in the works While Google hasnt yet shown any signs for a more affordable Gemini package, the code of the latest Google beta app hints towards a Google AI Lite plan. This plan could fill the gap between the Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra premium tiers. Folks over at Android Authority have discovered strings of code in the latest Google beta app indicating the availability of a new Gemini paid plan. As seen in the code snippets above, robin is the codename for Googles Gemini assistant, as per the source. Some strings of code refer to the new plan as Lite Mode too. Another set of code within the beta Google app refers to this Lite plan as AIL. New plan could raise limits for deep research and video generation The report also indicates that Google could sell the new affordable paid tier to users when they reach the free limits for features like video generation and deep research. As of now, the free version of Gemini gives users only a taste of premium features like deep research and video generation. The new plan could provide increased rate limits for these functionalities. Theres a possibility that the new tier might offer some level of access to newer, more advanced AI models, such as Gemini 2.5 Pro. Thats only a speculation at the moment as the information found inside the code is quite vague at the moment. As of now, its unclear when and if Google plans to launch the new Google AI Lite plan. At the moment, if you want to enjoy the more premium features of Gemini, then you can pay $19.99 a month for the Google AI Pro plan or $249.99 per month for the Google AI Ultra plan. If youre a regular user of Google Gemini, you might notice some changes rolling out to the web version. Google is giving its AI assistant a fresh coat of paint, and its not just about aesthetics. This UI redesignor refinementaims to make Gemini cleaner, more organized, and easier to use. Google Gemini UI redesign: Heres whats changing One of the first things youll spot is the prompt bar moving from the bottom to the center of the screen. This central placement gives Gemini a more prominent feel, reminiscent of the classic Google Search homepage. Also, instead of a personalized Hello, [your name] greeting, youll now see a more straightforward How can I help? This sets a clear, efficient tone for your upcoming prompts. But the biggest functional shift comes with a new Tools dropdown menu. Previously, you might have seen various suggested chips for features like Deep Research, Canvas, and image or video generation (with Imagen and Veo AI models). You will now find those options under the single Tools menu. While some might miss the immediate visibility of those options, this change significantly cleans up the interface. And, more importantly, it paves the way for Google to introduce even more AI-powered tools without cluttering the main screen. Source: 9to5Google As reported by 9to5Google, the company has also subtly relocated the suggested queries to the bottom of the screen, further emphasizing the central prompt bar. These design tweaks reflect the firms intentions to offer a more streamlined and intuitive user experience. The cleaner look is also similar to Google AI Studio, though. This suggests a unified design philosophy across Googles AI offerings. These updates are rolling out gradually, so you might see them on one account before another. Ultimately, this redesign aims to ensure that as Gemini continues to evolve with advanced capabilities like Deep Research and video generation, its web interface remains easy to navigate. Its not that using Gemini is especially difficult, but now its even more user-friendly. Googles Pixel 10 lineup has more or less leaked in full when it comes to the design, colors, and a few more interesting details, but now the entire lineup of phones has also (sort of) leaked in the Play Store. We say sort of because images of the phone didnt just appear out of thin air. Rather, they were found by poking around in the app. If youve not seen the Pixel 10 or its siblings yet, weve exclusively leaked designs for all four phones, including the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL. Designs for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold appeared just this morning, too. Of course, these arent really official images. The images of the phones from the Play Store are official, even if Google itself didnt officially release them. We also now know the dimensions, so you can see just how different in size theyll be from Googles Pixel 9 lineup. Which, spoiler alert, isnt much, although there is some variance both in size and weight. The whole Pixel 10 series has surfaced in the Play Store, but not by accident Google has accidentally leaked its own stuff before, or at least shown things earlier than intended, but this time, this isnt the case. The image of the Pixel 10 series was discovered by Android Authority when they were poking around in the Play Store app, the publication says. According to the report, they were able to get the banner image that Google is likely to use for promoting the new phones when people visit the Play Store to surface. We didnt see the image ourselves in our Play Store app, so this is definitely something that appears to require a little digging. Meaning, you probably arent going to see it in the Play Store on your own device. Unless youre familiar with how to find data like this when its unreleased. Whats interesting is that the banner image being there means Google is probably getting ready for the Pixel 10 reveal. It has its official event for hardware in August. Being this late in July, it kind of makes sense for Google to be preparing some of the imagery ahead of time. This would allow it to flip a switch and have things show up as quickly as possible. Of course, that opens up the door for things like this, where the imagery can be found. Much about the Pixel 10 features, price, and official release date is still unknown. But it wont be too long before that information comes to light. Seeing as it should be fairly close to Googles hardware event. Google will be offering a $50 off promo during the launch In addition to the images, theres one more piece of information that the Play Store leak provides. Googles promotion plans. Or, at least part of them. It looks like Google will be offering a $50 off promotion for the new Pixel 10 series devices during their launch period. There isnt much more detail here than that. However, the banner does say the promotion ends on October 13. So that signifies the launch isnt too far off. Sonys DualSense controller for the PS5 is arguably the most comfortable and best controller available on the market, and now its finally getting a feature it should have had since the PS5s release multi-device pairing. If you own at least one DualSense controller and you use it with more than just your PS5, then you know the struggle of having to pair it with each device every single time you want to swap. You can easily avoid this by having multiple controllers. However, that can get expensive. So, whats a gamer to do if they only have one PS5 controller but want to use it with more than just PS5? Well, until now, you had to deal with pairing it to the device you planned to use it with every time. Then youd have to re-pair it when switching devices again. It was a tedious process that wasnt particularly enjoyable. Thankfully, thats finally changing. This is an important factor to make note of because it means not everyone will have access to it right away. Thats a shame, because its genuinely one of the better quality-of-life features Sony has added in a while. Having said that, if you have access to the latest beta update, you should be able to use this feature as soon as the update has been installed. This will let you pair the DualSense controller with up to four devices simultaneously. So, for example, you have it paired to your PS5, PC, and mobile device that the same time. Once the pairing process is done, you can easily swap between the currently active device with a couple of button presses. During the pairing process, youll hold the PS button and one of the four action buttons to assign that device to a button combination. Such as the PS button and the triangle button for PS5. Once you have all devices assigned, you just need to hit the specific button combo for the device you want to play on. This isnt too unlike how you switch profiles on the DualSense Edge. The main difference is that with the Edge, youre pressing that dedicated switch button below the joystick instead of the PS button. The concept is the same, though. So it should be pretty familiar to anyone who has one of those controllers. Sony says the feature will be available to all users in the coming months. If you want to sign up for the PlayStation Beta Program, you can do so here. For the longest time, Apple and Google ran their app stores pretty much unchecked. Its safe to say that this allowed both companies to create a robust ecosystem that powers the majority of smartphones and tablets these days. However, weve seen in the past few years how regulators are now trying to clamp down on it. Over in the UK, regulators are pushing Apple and Google to make some changes. Apple and Googles app stores face off against UK regulators In the UK, the Competition and Markets Authority regulators have put forth a proposal. This proposal suggests that Apple and Google should be given a strategic market status. It sounds like its a good thing, but its not, at least not for the tech giants. This is because in the UK, companies designated with this status can be forced to stop or change certain practices deemed anticompetitive. In this instance, UK regulators are going after the app stores run by Apple and Google. In particular, regulators are trying to determine if Apple and Google might have required developers to sign unfair terms and conditions in order to distribute their apps via the respective app stores. This inquiry is also in response to complaints over inconsistent and unpredictable app review processes and inconsistent app store search rankings. Regulators are also not too pleased with the fact that the commissions Apple and Google charge can go up to 30%. Regulators are now calling for app reviews and distribution to be conducted in a fair, objective and transparent manner. It is also exploring how both companies can make it easier for developers to point users towards third-party payment methods. All this isnt new The investigation by UK regulators is one weve seen before. This isnt the first time Apple and Google have faced complaints over their app store practices. Specifically, Apple has run into legal issues in the EU region. This ultimately forced the company to make changes to its App Store. In fact, the changes Apple made in the EU are more or less what UK regulators are asking from them. However, this doesnt mean Apple and Google are willing to give in so easily. Both companies have responded to the regulators proposal, saying it would be bad for user security and consumers. Both companies also have a month to make their cases before a decision is finalized. If youve been looking for a compact streaming stick with Google TV support, Xiaomi has a new option for you. The company has quietly unveiled the Xiaomi TV Stick (2nd Gen), but sadly, it wont be up for sale in the US. The Xiaomi TV Stick (2nd Gen) officially launches with Google TV support Well, this isnt the first time weve heard about the Xiaomi TV Stick (2nd Gen). Earlier this month, folks over at 9to5Google spotted the products listing on Chinese online shopping store, AliExpress. In fact, that listing revealed pretty much everything about the tiny new device way before Xiaomi officially did. As you can see in the official images below, Xiaomis new TV Stick flaunts a compact form factor. In size, its somewhat bigger than a regular-sized USB drive. You can plug this USB-powered device into an HDMI device. On the compatibility front, it comes with 4K output, with support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+. On top of that, this streaming stick supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound. Xiaomi has also upgraded the chipset inside its new TV stick, which makes it 80 percent faster for regular usage. It now uses Quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU, alongside an ARM G310 V2 GPU. Do note that it also comes with Wi-Fi 6 support, ensuring a buttery smooth streaming experience. Not to forget, you also get HDMI 2.1 and Micro USB ports. The streaming stick is available for purchase on AliExpress Additionally, the Xiaomi TV Stick (2nd Gen) features 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. While these specs might not be top-tier in the market, the good news is that this is Xiaomis first Google TV-supported streaming stick. You can expect better content recommendations and new features like Home support. For now, it seems the device is only available in select global markets. If you want to get your hands on Xiaomis new streaming stick, AliExpress is selling it with global shipping for approximately $65. by Barry Goldman Suppose we have two groups of citizens. Lets call them the Shirts and the Skins. The Shirts believe homosexuality is an abomination that stinketh in the nostrils of the Lord, and abortion is baby murder. The Skins believe homosexuality is perfectly normal and natural, and abortion is a womans right. How can we build a society where those groups can get along without killing each other? One approach might be to encourage the two sides to leave each other alone. You think homosexual sex is wrong? Fine, dont engage in it. You think abortion is wrong? Fine, dont have one. But dont tell me what to do. This produces some familiar formulations. Everyone is to have the greatest amount of freedom compatible with similar freedom for everyone else. Your right to swing your arm ends where my nose begins. Live and let live. But that answer doesnt work for Shirts and Skins. If I really believe abortion is baby murder, it isnt enough that I dont do it. I also have a moral duty to prevent you from doing it. I can take a live and let live attitude about what color you paint your house. Its none of my business. But I cant let you murder babies. And I cant compromise. I might accept some strategic compromise on a temporary basis, but I can never permanently accept anything short of complete abolition. The same is true for people who really believe homosexual behavior is terribly wrong. Its like slavery. Or cannibalism. Or human sacrifice. I cant allow you to throw any virgins into the volcano. None. You also cant engage in ritual cannibalism. Even on special holidays. Compromise is not an option. The negotiation literature calls these sacred issues. It is insulting even to suggest compromise on a sacred issue. Sacred issues are incommensurable. If you think I might be persuaded by, say, an offer of money to compromise on a sacred issue, you simply dont understand what a sacred issue is. So now what? The answer is politics. The Skins go out and try to convince people to vote for politicians who support Skin policies. The Shirts try to convince people to vote for politicians who support Shirt policies. Then we have an election. The side that gets the most votes wins, and it gets to write the laws. We all live under those laws for a while, and then we have another election. Naturally, both sides try to cook the books. They gerrymander the voting districts to give their side an advantage. They try to suppress the vote of groups they think will support the other side. Of course they do. And not just because each side wants to maximize its money, power and influence, but because they take their sacred issues seriously. So far, so good. If we cant agree on substance, at least we can agree on procedure. But we would want some constraints on the law-making power even of our freely, fairly and duly-elected representatives. We would want something like a constitution and a bill of rights. We may be willing to give our law makers plenty of power, but we still need to prevent them from changing the law to the point where it permanently entrenches one side or the other. They cant install a hereditary monarchy. They can make no law abridging freedom of speech or of the press or of the right of the people peaceably to assemble. They cant establish a religion or interfere with the free exercise thereof. They cant deprive people of life, liberty or property without due process of law. When there are disputes about the application of the laws, we would want them resolved by an independent judiciary, after full briefing and argument, in reasoned, written, publicly available opinions. No Star Chambers. No secret tribunals. Of course, there are legitimate reasons to keep some information confidential, and there are legitimate emergencies when time is of the essence and ordinary procedures need to be abbreviated. But the default condition in judicial decision making should always be transparency and reasoned discourse. That is why the explosive growth of the Supreme Courts shadow docket is so alarming. According to Stephen Vladeck, Georgetown law professor and author of The Shadow Docket: How the Supreme Court Uses Stealth Rulings to Amass Power and Undermine the Republic, the number of full court decisions on emergency applications that are not signed, not explained, not argued, and not fully briefed: went from one every other year during Bush and Obama to almost one a month during the first Trump administration. The Biden administration averaged five per year. And now were at basically one a week. Vladeck quotes Justice Kagan: this Courts shadow-docket decision-making every day becomes more unreasoned, inconsistent, and impossible to defend. He quotes Adam Serwers 2021 Atlantic article, Five Justices Did This Because They Could: The shadow docket has begun to look less like a place for emergency cases than one where Republican-appointed justices can implement their preferred policies without having to go through the tedious formalities of following legal procedure, developing arguments consistent with precedent, or withstanding public scrutiny. Vladecks book came out in 2023. Since the beginning of the second Trump term, the situation has gotten far worse. The shadow dockets proliferation of emergency decisions has dramatically increased not only in number but in scope. The exception has swallowed the rule. Major decisions on central legal questions are being made in unsigned, unexplained orders. This undermines an essential component of the social contract. The public has a right to expect the Supreme Court to show its work and sign its opinions. We cant expect politicians to be anything other than politicians. But we have a right to expect judges to act like judges and not just politicians in robes. Justice Kagan, along with Justices Sotomayor and Jackson, has been a fierce critic of the shadow docket. Her dissents in shadow docket cases make for inspiring reading. But a troubling new wrinkle has appeared. Justice Kagan concurred with the majority in Department of Homeland Security v. D.V.D. Here is her concurrence (citations omitted): I voted to deny the Governments previous stay application in this case, and I continue to believe that this Court should not have stayed the District Courts April 18th order enjoining the Government from deporting non-citizens to third countries without notice or a meaningful opportunity to be heard. But a majority of this Court saw things differently, and I do not see how a district court can compel compliance with an order that this Court has stayed. Because continued enforcement of the District Courts May 21, 2025 order would do just that, I vote to grant the Governments motion for clarification. That left only Justices Sotomayor and Jackson in dissent. Here are the first few sentences of their dissent: The United States may not deport non-citizens to a country where they are likely to be tortured or killed. International and domestic law guarantee that basic human right. In this case, the Government seeks to nullify it by deporting non-citizens to potentially dangerous countries without notice or the opportunity to assert a fear of torture. And here is their last sentence: Todays order clarifies only one thing: Other litigants must follow the rules, but the administration has the Supreme Court on speed dial. The divergence between Justice Kagan and the other two progressive justices is important here. Vladeck wrote a Substack about it. Kagans is a lawyerly approach. This is not surprising. Before she was appointed to the Supreme Court, Kagan was the dean of Harvard Law School and the solicitor general of the United States. She is a lawyer to the bone. For her, the Law is sacred. She is also perhaps the sharpest knife in the drawer. Justices Sotomayor and Jacksons approach is not so legalistic. They refuse to lose sight of the real-world consequences of their actions. Real people will be tortured and killed as a result of this decision. It is a mistake to bring a knife even a very sharp one to a gunfight. One hundred years ago, H.L. Mencken described the view out the window of a train traveling east from Pittsburgh. The essay is called The Libido for the Ugly It is appropriate to borrow Menckens phrase to describe the Trump administrations policies. Trump and his appointees, Stephen Miller in particular, have a libido for the cruel. Adam Serwer wrote a justly famous essay on the subject, The Cruelty is the Point. In a fight with an adversary like that, the dainty rules of legal formalism are grotesquely out of place. Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now. A Project Stargate AI infrastructure site for OpenAI, SoftBank and Oracle, in Abilene, Texas, on 23 April 2025. Photograph: Daniel Cole/Reuters The Trump administration has unveiled plans to speed the development of the highly polluting artificial intelligence sector, sparking outrage from climate advocates. Rolled out on Wednesday, the 28-page scheme pledges to remove so-called bureaucratic red tape and streamline permitting for datacenters, semiconductor manufacturing facilities and fossil fuel infrastructure. To do so, it will dismantle some environmental and land-use regulations, roll back some Biden-era rules for subsidies for semiconductor plants related to climate requirements, and seek to establish exclusions for datacenters from the National Environmental Policy Act and streamline permits under the Clean Water Act. We need to build and maintain vast AI infrastructure and the energy to power it. To do that, we will continue to reject radical climate dogma and bureaucratic red tape, as the Administration has done since Inauguration Day, the plan says. Simply put, we need to Build, Baby, Build! Trump is also expected to sign three AI-related executive orders on Wednesday during a keynote address at a summit in DC. The announcement will be co-hosted by bipartisan lawmakers with the Hill and Valley Forum and a business and technology podcast hosted by four technology investors and businessmen, including Trumps AI and crypto czar, David Sacks. The AI sector is already depleting land and water resources and taking a massive toll on the climate, with AI-powered large language models such as ChatGPT taking up to 10 times more energy than a regular Google search, according to an estimate by the Electric Power Research Institute. Last year, ChatGPT used more than half a million kilowatts of electricity every day, equivalent to the daily power use of 180,000 US households. The training of a single AI model can lead to an emissions footprint that is almost five times larger than the lifetime carbon footprint of the average American car. Recent research from Food and Water Watch also found that energy demand from AI servers and datacenters in the US is expected to increase up to threefold from 2023 to 2028, which could lead the US sector to, by 2028, annually consume enough water to fill more than 1m Olympic-size swimming pools and enough electricity to power more than 28m American households. At its core, President Trumps AI agenda is nothing more than a thinly veiled invitation for the fossil fuel and corporate water industries to ramp up their exploitation of our environment and natural resources all at the expense of everyday people, said Mitch Jones, a managing director Food and Water Watch, an environmental advocacy group. The new plan recommends that regulators review states AI laws to see whether they interfere with the agencys authority. It also says federal agencies will consider a states AI regulatory climate when making funding decisions and limit funding if the states AI regulatory regimes may hinder the effectiveness of that funding or award. Republicans earlier this year attempted to enact a version of this by placing a moratorium on states ability to impose regulations on artificial intelligence into Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but the provision was stripped at the last minute. Under this plan, tech giants get sweetheart deals while everyday Americans will see their electricity bills rise to subsidize discounted power for massive AI datacenters, said JB Branch, a big-tech accountability advocate with the consumer advocacy organization Public Citizen. States are held hostage: either stop protecting their residents from dangerous, untested AI products, or lose federal funding. Related: Wells Fargo is complicit: seven arrested at climate protests outside banks offices As a counterweight to the new Trump plan, a broad coalition of more than 90 advocacy groups including climate and environmental justice non-profits, consumer protection organizations and labor advocates published an open letter calling for a peoples AI action plan that prioritizes public wellbeing, shared prosperity, a sustainable future and security. We cant let big tech and big oil lobbyists write the rules for AI and our economy at the expense of our freedom and equality, workers and families wellbeing, the coalition wrote. Research shows that many datacenters used for AI are placed near low-income communities of color, which are already often overburdened by pollution. People sacrifice their health, their wellbeing and, too often, their future, so that others can benefit, said Sharon Lewis, executive director of the Connecticut Coalition for Environmental Justice. Were told these datacenters are harmless, but even though they might seem like they pose no risk, in reality, these energy-hungry, pollution-intensive facilities are just as damaging to our environment and health. A Delta flight was traveling 60 mph down a runway in Mexico City on Monday when an AeroMexico plane landed in front of it. The Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 jet bound for Atlanta had to stop its takeoff and return to its terminal at Benito Juarez International Airport after an AeroMexico Embraer 190 regional jet flew over the plane and landed in front of it on the same runway, according to multiple reports. FlightRadar24, a flight tracking site, showed the two aircraft about 200 feet apart, according to the reports. The Delta flight, which had 144 passengers and six crew members on board, departed to Atlanta about three hours late, CNN reported. A Delta flight was traveling 60 mph down a runway in Mexico City on Monday when an AeroMexico plane landed in front of it (AFP/Getty) Delta and AeroMexico both said in separate statements obtained by ABC News the companies were cooperating with authorities as the incident is investigated. Both airlines said maintaining passenger safety was their number one priority. ABC reported on air traffic control recordings from the incident, in which the Delta pilot was reportedly heard saying, "We are holding on the runway. Another voice can be heard in the recordings saying, Wow" and "Increible." The Independent has reached out to the Federal Aviation Administration and Mexicos civil aviation agency for comment. The Delta flight bound for Atlanta had to stop takeoff and return to its terminal at Benito Juarez International Airport after an AeroMexico jet flew over the plane and landed in front of it, according to reports (AFP/Getty) Steve Ganyard, an ABC News aviation contributor and former fighter pilot, explained what could have gone wrong in the near collision. "There are parallel runways at Mexico City. So we don't know if the controller told the Aeromexico aircraft to land on the left-hand and not the right-hand runway where the Delta jet was," he said. The aviation expert continued: "We also don't know, perhaps the tower controller didn't understand that they had cleared the Aeromexico aircraft to land while simultaneously clearing the Delta jet to take off." A doctor who was a primary target in the sweeping investigation of actor Matthew Perrys overdose death has pleaded guilty to supplying the Friends star with ketamine. Dr Salvador Plasencia became the fourth of the five people charged in connection with Perrys death to plead guilty. He and a woman prosecutors say was a major ketamine dealer faced the most serious charges after Perry was found dead in the hot tub of his Los Angeles home on October 28 2023. Dr Salvador Plasencia leaves court in Los Angeles, after pleading guilty to giving ketamine to Matthew Perry, leading up to the actors 2023 overdose death (Damian Dovarganes/AP) Plasencia stood next to his lawyer and said guilty four times for four different counts before Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett in court in Los Angeles. Plasencia, 43, was to have gone on trial in August until the doctor agreed last month to plead guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine, according to the signed document filed in court in Los Angeles. The charges can carry up to 40 years in prison. He is likely to be sentenced to much less, but there is no guarantee in his agreement. He spoke only to answer the judges questions. When asked if his lawyers had considered all the possibilities of pleas and sentencing in the case, Plasencia replied: Theyve considered everything. Dr Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry, the doctors lawyer, Debra White, said in an emailed statement after the hearing. He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution. Dr Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Mr Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction. In exchange for the guilty pleas, prosecutors have agreed to drop three additional counts of distribution of ketamine and two counts of falsifying records. Prosecutors outlined the charges in court before the plea, and said that he did not sell Perry the dose that killed the actor. Matthew Perry died in October 2023 (PA) They described, and Plasencia admitted, that Perry froze up and his blood pressure spiked when the doctor gave him one injection, but Plasencia still left more ketamine for Perrys assistant to inject. In court, Perry was referred to only as victim MP. Plasencia acknowledged that he knew the actor was an addict when he charged him thousands of dollars and gave him ketamine, a drug primarily used as a surgical anesthetic. Plasencia has been free on bond since shortly after his arrest in August, and will be allowed to remain free until his December 3 sentencing. Defence lawyer Karen Goldstein assured the judge that he is not a flight risk, saying he was born and raised in the area and is one of the primary caretakers for his son, who is about two-years-old. Plasencia has already turned over his licence to prescribe controlled substances. He has been allowed to practice medicine in the past year, but he must inform patients of the charges before treating them. Goldstein told the judge hell now surrender his medical licence too. Plasencia left the courthouse with his lawyers without speaking to reporters gathered outside. While Dr Plasencia was not treating Mr. Perry at the time of his death, his lawyers statement said, he hopes his case serves as a warning to other medical professionals and leads to stricter oversight and clear protocols for the rapidly growing at-home ketamine industry in order to prevent future tragedies like this. The only remaining defendant who has not reached an agreement with the US Attorneys Office is Jasveen Sangha, who prosecutors allege is a drug dealer known as the Ketamine Queen and sold Perry the lethal dose. Her trial is scheduled to begin next month. She has pleaded not guilty. Perry struggled with addiction for years, dating back to his time on Friends, when he became one of the biggest stars of his generation as Chandler Bing. He starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer for 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004. There has been a growing sense of horror and despair among the cabinet in recent weeks over Israels actions and scenes in Gaza. Photograph: Mahmoud Issa/Reuters Dozens of former UK ambassadors and diplomats have piled pressure on Keir Starmer to recognise a Palestinian state amid growing international revulsion at the harrowing scenes in Gaza. Their letter to the prime minister came as the archbishop of York condemned the dehumanisation of people in Gaza as depraved and barbaric. It was a stain on the conscience of the international community, and Israels war of aggression was a grave sin, said Stephen Cottrell, the de facto leader of the Church of England. The strength of the language used by Cottrell is a reflection of rapidly shifting opinion as images emerge from Gaza of starving children and accounts of civilians being killed as they try to secure food for their families. In Starmers cabinet, there has been a growing sense of horror and despair in recent weeks over Israels actions and the scenes in Gaza. This week, Wes Streeting, the health secretary, publicly called for recognition while there was still a state of Palestine left to recognise and condemned Israeli actions that went well beyond legitimate self-defence. On Wednesday, Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, urged the UK government to recognise a Palestinian state immediately, saying the scenes in Gaza were absolutely harrowing. In a statement on X, he wrote: The international community including our own government must do far more to pressure the Israeli government to stop this horrific, senseless killing and let vital, life-saving aid in. Nothing justifies the actions of the Israeli government. The letter to Starmer, which was signed by more than 30 former UK ambassadors and 20 former senior British diplomats at the United Nations, said the status quo in Gaza could be broken by recognising the state of Palestine. The risks of inaction have profound, historic and catastrophic implications, it said. The state of Israel cannot be secure from threats in the future if the question of Palestine is not taken forward to a political settlement. It added: In the face of the current horror and impunity, words are not enough A partial suspension of arms sales, delays on trade talks and limited sanctions are far from the full extent of the pressure the UK can bring to bear on Israel. Recognising a Palestinian state would be a foundational first step towards breaking the deadly status quo, the letter said. Signatories included the former UK ambassadors to Afghanistan, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Pakistan, Qatar, Syria and Turkey. The letter reflects deep concern among former diplomats that Starmer appears reluctant to engage with the Middle East crisis, or understand that ineffective action will do little to assuage British reputation in the region. One of the signatories said the letter reflected a strong current of opinion inside the Foreign Office over the recognition issue, but such a claim is hard to test. Cottrells statement, issued on Wednesday, said: With each passing day in Gaza, the violence, starvation and dehumanisation being inflicted on the civilian population by the government of Israel becomes more depraved and unconscionable. In the name of God, I cry out against this barbaric assault on human life and dignity. It is a stain on the conscience of the international community, and a flagrant breach of international humanitarian law. He added: I have condemned many times the horrific Hamas attacks on 7 October, and I continue to call for the release of those still cruelly held hostage. We deplore every assault on the innocent. But this war is now one of aggression it is a grave sin and it must stop. Cottrell called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages and captives and for the rebuilding of Gaza. Any policy that would amount to the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian population from Gaza must be rejected, he said. Earlier on Wednesday, 111 aid organisations said mass starvation was spreading in Gaza as a result of continued Israeli restrictions on how aid arrived and was distributed in the territory. The organisations, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Save the Children and Oxfam, said: Our colleagues and those we serve are wasting away. Israel claims aid is being allowed to enter Gaza but it is being stolen by Hamas. There have been repeated incidents of civilians being shot while trying to access food from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an organisation backed by Israel that replaced the UN aid infrastructure in May. The UN says Israeli forces have since killed more than 1,000 Palestinians trying to get food. The UK foreign secretary, David Lammy, who said he felt appalled, sickened by the scenes of starving Palestinians being shot as they sought food, said Britain would play its part in reaching a two-state solution. Donald Trumps historic friendship with the late paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein has become a political maelstrom for his administration - Davidoff Studios Photography/ARCHIVE PHOTOS President Donald Trump was told he appears in the Epstein files by his attorney general weeks before her department announced it would not release any more of the documents, according to reports. Department of Justice (DoJ) officials reviewed the files earlier this year and discovered Mr Trumps name appeared multiple times, senior officials told the Wall Street Journal. Pam Bondi, the attorney general, reportedly told Mr Trump during a routine White House briefing in May that he and a number of other high-profile individuals are named in the documents the US government holds on the late paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Mr Trumps inclusion in the files was not said to be the focus of the meeting and being named in documents related to the case does not imply wrongdoing. One official told the WSJ that the documents contain hundreds of other names. Sources said Mr Trump was told Department of Justice (DoJ) officials did not plan on releasing more documents because they contain child pornography and personal information about the victims. Donald and Melania Trump with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in Florida in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/Archive Photos In February, Ms Bondi said Epsteins so-called client list was sitting on my desk right now to review however, on July 7, the DoJ published a statement in which it said it did not obtain a list of Epsteins clients. Earlier this month, Mr Trump was asked if Ms Bondi had told him that he was mentioned in the documents. The president told reporters: No, no. Shes given us just a very quick briefing, and in terms of the credibility of the different things that theyve seen. Epstein killed himself in his Manhattan jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex crimes. Ghislaine Maxwell is the only person to have ever been convicted in connection with his crimes. The former British socialite is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after she was convicted in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein recruit and abuse underage girls. Her lawyers have been attempting to appeal her conviction. Maxwell was issued with a subpoena by the House oversight committee on Wednesday to give a deposition from the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, where she is imprisoned, on Aug 11. Mr Trumps historic friendship with the late paedophile financier has become a political maelstrom for his administration which is working furiously to tilt the news cycle in a different direction. Mr Trump and Epstein at a party at Mar-a-Lago in 1992 - NBC NEWS In a statement shared with The Telegraph, Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, said: The fact is that the president kicked him [Epstein] out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, just like the Obama Russiagate scandal, which President Trump was right about. Last week, Mr Trump said Ms Bondi had not informed him his name was in the files. Judge blocks release of transcripts On Wednesday, a judge blocked the 2019 grand jury transcripts in the Epstein case from being released. The president last week ordered Ms Bondi to request the release of the documents, which are a written record of everything that is said during grand jury proceedings. It followed a report in the Wall Street Journal detailing an embarrassing birthday letter Mr Trump allegedly sent to Epstein in 2003, in which he told his former friend they had certain things in common. The president denied sending the card, which imagined a cryptic conversation between the two men ending with: A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret. Enigmas never age, he wrote elsewhere in the card. On Friday, the president filed a $10 billion (7.4 billion) defamation suit against the newspaper, the two reporters who wrote the story and Rupert Murdoch, the newspapers owner. The move to release the grand jury testimony was widely seen as an attempt by Mr Trump to quell his Maga base, who were infuriated by the DoJ and FBIs refusal to release the so-called Epstein files. The DoJ cited extensive public interest and transparency to the American public in requesting the documents. Judge Robin L Rosenberg wrote in her denial that the courts hands are tied. She said the Trump administration had not requested the grand jurys findings for use in a judicial proceeding and that district courts are generally not allowed to unseal grand jury testimony except in very rare circumstances. The move will be a blow to Mr Trump, who is struggling to rally support amid the fallout over his governments failure to release all documents it holds relating to Epstein. The grand jury transcripts would be just a fraction of the complete files. During Wednesdays press briefing, Karoline Leavitt, Mr Trumps press secretary, declined to comment on whether the government would appeal the judges decision. Days before compelling Maxwell to testify, several Republican politicians on the House oversight committee said they had not discussed doing so with Mr Trump. Mr Trump and Maxwell in 1997 - Alpha Press Some of Mr Trumps biggest allies in Congress broke with the US president over the issue and called for the full release of the Epstein files. The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr Epsteins cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny, James Comer, chairman of the committee, wrote to Maxwell. Mr Comer said the committee is seeking her testimony to inform the consideration of potential legislative solutions to improve federal efforts to combat sex trafficking and reform the use of non-prosecution agreements and/or plea agreements in sex-crime investigations. It came after Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said he would meet with Maxwell to ask her about the Epstein case. David Oscar Markus, Maxwells lawyer, confirmed they were talking to the government and Maxwell. We are grateful to President Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case, he said. Trump accuses Obama of treason The Trump administration has been accused by critics of trying to distract from the Epstein furore by accusing Barack Obama of treason. The US president said Mr Obama [tried] to lead a coup after his first presidential win and he had manufactured evidence suggesting that Russia had meddled to help Mr Trump defeat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race. Less than an hour before the WSJ released its report, Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, said the DoJ would investigate Mr Obama over allegations he fabricated the claims Moscow interfered in the election. Asked whether she would be referring Mr Obama to the DoJ for criminal implications, the director of national intelligence said: We have referred, and will continue to refer all of these documents to the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate the criminal implications of this. Pressed on whether this included Mr Obama, she said: Correct. It comes after Mr Obama dismissed the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of the White House. An Obama spokesman denounced Mr Trumps attack as ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Melania and Donald Trump with Ghislaine Maxwell in 2000 - Patrick McMullan Ghislaine Maxwell will attempt to make a deal with the Trump administration when government officials visit her in prison, Jeffrey Epsteins former lawyer claimed. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced he would meet the convicted sex offender in the coming days to find out if she has information about anyone who participated in Epsteins sex crimes. Shes going to make a deal with the Department of Justice (DoJ), Alan Dershowitz, the Harvard law professor who previously represented Epstein, said. Thats the way things are done. They make deals with the Mafia, so Im certain they are going to try to make a deal with her, he told The New York Post. Maxwell was subpoenaed by the House oversight committee on Wednesday to give a deposition from prison on August 11. The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr Epsteins cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny, James Comer, chairman of the committee, wrote to Maxwell. Mr Comer said the committee is seeking her testimony to inform the consideration of potential legislative solutions to improve federal efforts to combat sex trafficking and reform the use of non-prosecution agreements and/or plea agreements in sex-crime investigations. President Donald Trump continues to battle the biggest challenge of his presidency, the fallout from his refusal to release all the information the US government has on Epstein. The political storm is something of a gift to Maxwells lawyers, who attempted to lean on Mr Trump during a previous conviction appeal, describing the US president as the ultimate dealmaker. Mr Dershowitz, who previously called Maxwell, 63, the Rosetta Stone of information about Epstein, added: She knows everything not just about the perpetrators but the victims. And she knows about the victims who became perpetrators. Jeffrey Epstein and Alan Dershowitz - Rick Friedman/Corbis Historical Maxwell has two potential avenues for having her sentence reduced. The government could file what is called a Rule 35 motion, to request her sentence be reduced by a federal judge based on conduct, including cooperation with the government. But any request would have to be granted by a federal judge, and Maxwells case is being overseen by US District Judge Paul Engelmayer, who was appointed by Barack Obama. The other option would see Mr Trump himself commute Maxwells sentence, or grant her a pardon, which, as the US president, he has unfettered power to do. Mr Trump has not been implicated in any allegations of wrongdoing, but his close relationship with Epstein has come back into focus since the DoJ ruled there was no client list of men who participated in Epsteins crimes. On Tuesday, Mr Trump said he was facing a witch hunt as he faced mounting pressure to order the release of secret Epstein files. Donald Trump and Ghislaine Maxwell in 1997 - Arnaldo Magnani/Hulton Archive But a former federal prosecutor who flipped Mafia bosses while working for the government and helped secure their releases as a defence lawyer, said Maxwells case is not so simple. This is a situation where she potentially has information on the very person who holds the key to the jailhouse door for her, that is the president of the United States, Edward A McDonald told The Telegraph. It would seem that, unless she exonerates Trump, she is not going to get any quid for her quo, hes not going to pardon her or agree to have the justice department give her a lesser sentence... and of course, if she exonerates Trump, shes also going to have to cooperate in other cases, but no ones going to believe her testimony, he added. Mr McDonald, who secured the release of mob boss Joseph Massino in 2013 after he cooperated with federal prosecutors after being handed two life sentences, said Maxwell was hardly a credible witness. Mob boss Joseph Massinos release was secured by Edward A McDonald - New York Daily News Archive/2010/Daily News L.P. (New York) Maxwell was charged with two counts of perjury over alleged lies she told the government during a 2016 civil deposition about Epstein. He said any prosecutor would need to have a tremendous amount of corroboration for any potential testimony she might give, which if they had would have already been acted upon. If she exonerates Trump, no juror is going to believe her, so the value of her cooperation is going to be minimal, and of course, if she includes Trump, if she implicates Trump, shes certainly not going to get pardoned, he said. Mr McDonald, who played himself, the US Attorney who flipped mob boss Henry Hill, in Martin Scorseses Goodfellas, said the case is also thorny for Mr Trump, whose supporters will interrogate why he pardoned her if cooperation does not lead to any indictments. Even the Trump base is going to say, oh, wait a minute, he obviously has exonerated her, because she kept him out of it, he said. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche and Mr Trump in court in May 2024 - Steven Hirsch/ 2024 Bloomberg Finance LP In the event the DoJ requests a sentence reduction, the supervising judge has the power and autonomy to reject it. Mr McDonald noted that when he was a prosecutor in the early 1980s and convicted the inside man who set up the robbery at John F Kennedy airport in 1978, the judge rejected his request for a sentence reduction for the defendants cooperation because it had not led to any indictments. He said it was a dollar short and a day late, he said. Former federal prosecutors have said the way this case has been handled is extraordinary and has not followed usual procedures. Mitchell Epner, a criminal defence lawyer who is a partner at firm Kudman Trachten Aloe Posner, told The Telegraph: I have never seen a case where the DOJ has announced ahead of time that it was going to be meeting with a potential cooperator. He also said it was absolutely extraordinary that Mr Blanche, the number two in the DoJ, would hold a meeting that is usually carried out by a line prosecutor. It definitely seems the impetus here comes from outside the DoJ because this is so foreign to standard operating procedure, he said. Mr Blanche was appointed to the plum role at the DoJ after representing Mr Trump during his criminal fraud case in Manhattan. The FBI is seeking an ultra-long-range business jet to fly agents and other bureau personnel to far-flung global locations for counterterrorism response, high-risk operations, and other sensitive missions, according to a tranche of federal procurement documents reviewed by The Independent. Alongside the governments request for proposals, a related statement of objectives says the aircraft will also support executive transportation requirements for the FBI Director and the U.S. Attorney General, namely, Kash Patel and Pam Bondi, who have both faced withering scrutiny in recent weeks over their handling of the fallout from the non-release of the Epstein files. In May, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reportedly initiated an investigation into Patels supposedly robust personal use of the FBIs existing fleet of private jets. However, a Department of Justice official said on Wednesday that the plan had not been approved by Bondi, who is not in favor of the purchase. The FBI has an independent procurement process for the director and their agents, DOJ spokesman Gates McGavick told The Independent. Neither the attorney general nor other DOJ leadership knew about this and see no need for its use in Main Justice. Main Justice is the colloquial name for DOJ headquarters. The plane will be required to fly at speeds of Mach 0.83 or higher, with Mach 0.85 listed as preferred. It must have a minimum range of 7,000 nautical miles, be able to seat at least 12 passengers, three crew, and 1,000 lbs. of cargo, the RFP states. That means the feds need something along the lines of a Gulfstream G800, which seats 19 and can travel 7,000 nautical miles at Mach 0.90, or a Bombardier Global 8000, which seats 19 and can travel 8,000 nautical miles at Mach 0.94. The RFP, which was issued July 11, says the bureaus Critical Incident Response Group will lease the aircraft for an initial one-year period, with the possibility of four one-year extensions, after which the government will have the option to purchase the jet outright. The documents do not explain how the plane will be shared between one of the FBIs most elite tactical units and two of the administrations highest-ranking officials. No prices are included in the solicitation paperwork, but the G800 starts at about $72.5 million, while the base model Global 8000 lists for roughly $78 million. The FBI paid $2.4 million to lease a Gulfstream V for six months in 2016, after a procurement process marked by numerous deficiencies, according to an audit the following year by the DOJs Office of the Inspector General. FBI Director Kash Patel (left) and Attorney General Pam Bondi (right) will soon be traveling in style as the FBI is asking for help finding them a new jet. (Getty) Craig Holman, a governmental ethics and campaign finance expert at Washington, D.C. watchdog nonprofit Public Citizen, says the expenditure shows the Trump team going against its relentless claims of cost-efficiency. For an administration that wants to put on a veneer of cutting waste, fraud and abuse in government spending, it sure doesn't have any qualms when it comes to lavish spending on expensive new jets and other luxuries for itself, Holman told The Independent. This will be the third luxury aircraft so far being budgeted for travel by cabinet officials and the president, according to Holman. There is the extravagant Boeing [747] being bought from Qatar for Trump, a Gulfstream IV luxury jet for Homeland Security Director Kristi Noem, and now, an opulent long-range jet for FBI Director Patel and Attorney General Bondi for their traveling comfort. Meanwhile, the administration is slashing spending on health care, education and worker safety for the rest of us. Trump has said Qatar is gifting the 747 to the Department of Defense for his use as an especially opulent Air Force One, but the Air Force itself pegs the cost of modifying the plane for such use at some $400 million. An FBI spokesman told The Independent that the new aircraft lease will in fact be more cost-effective. The plane in question is for critical functions such as hostage rescue team deployments, international operations, SWAT ops, and other national security related purposes but the current lease structure is unnecessarily wasteful, the spokesman said. As weve done with other assets, like moving the headquarters building, the FBI is evaluating available options to better serve the American people at a much lower and more efficient cost to the taxpayer. As for the business jet to be split between Bondi, Patel, and the FBI, the successful bidder will deliver the private jet to the bureaus Aviation Operations Hangar at the Manassas Regional Airport in Manassas, Virginia, by next summer. The aircraft shall be fully mission operational and flight-ready, with all required Government-installed modifications (including secure communications suite), no later than June 24, 2026, the RFP tells prospective sellers. In addition to hardened comms, the cabin must have two lavatories, one crew rest seat, one galley with microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, sink and ice and beverage storage, according to the request. The bureaus preferred features include four cabin zones with solid dividers, and a dedicated crew rest area with layflat seats/bunk, it says. The requirements sought by the feds will mean an aircraft along the lines of a Bombardier 8000 (the interior of a Bombardier 7500, the plane's previous generation, is seen at left) or a Gulfstream G800 (AFP/Getty) As far as cosmetics go, the aircrafts interior components seating, cabinetry, flooring, lighting must be in good condition, with no excessive wear, staining or damage, the RFP states. Before delivery, the request says the jet shall be thoroughly cleaned inside and out, and exterior paint shall be free of major defects, corrosion, or significant fading. Further, the plane should have less than 2,500 hours of flight time, and be less than five years old. The contractor will be responsible for all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, to be conducted at FAA-approved facilities, according to the RFP. The FBI will oversee minor routine tasks such as tire and fluid replacement, as well as minor repairs. The flight crews will be provided by the FBI, which will maintain sole operational control, the RFP states, adding that the bureau is self-insured up to $5 million for all flight operations. In excess of this limit, [the] FBI will seek Congressional appropriations, the RFP says. In the six months since President Trump began his second stint in the White House, the administration has, among other things, decimated school lunch programs, thrown millions off of Medicaid, and enacted tax cuts that will boost incomes for the wealthy while raising taxes on working Americans. Nearly three years after four University of Idaho students were brutally stabbed to death in their off-campus home, their grieving families will have a chance to confront the man who admitted to killing them. Bryan Kohberger, 30, a former PhD criminology student, is set to be sentenced in Boise, Idaho, Wednesday for the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. The November 2022 slayings shocked the college town of Moscow and captured national attention due to the horrifying violence with no clear motive. For over two years, Kohberger maintained his innocence, until July 2, 2025, when in a bombshell twist, he pleaded guilty to all four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. The plea deal took the death penalty off the table. Instead, Kohberger will be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, and the families of his victims will finally have a chance to address him face-to-face. Brian Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders of Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21. He is set to be sentenced on July 22. (AP) What to expect at the courthouse The sentencing will begin at 9 a.m. MT (11 a.m. ET) Wednesday inside the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, which is expected to fill up with victims families, friends, along with members of the media and true crime fans eager for a glimpse at the confessed killer. Kohberger's defense attorneys got the trial moved from Latah County to the states capitol after expressing concerns that the court wouldn't be able to find enough unbiased jurors in the rural farming community of Moscow. The families and surviving roommates of the victims will have the opportunity to describe the damage the killings have done to them. Because there are so many of them, the hearing could stretch into Thursday. The victims families will get a chance to come face-to-face with Kohberger and a chance to speak directly to their loved ones killer. Ethan Chapin's parents, Jim and Stacy Chapin, arrive at the Ada County Courthouse when Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty on July 2. His plea deal calls for him to spent life behind bars. (Reuters) The family of Ethan Chapin has said they do not plan to attend, but the families of the three women killed are expected to appear in court. Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, the two surviving roommates who have largely avoided the public eye, may also choose to address the court. Moscow Police Chief Anthony Dahlinger told ABC News that he hopes the sentencing will allow not only the families, but the town of Moscow, to heal and bring some sort of closure to this horrendous act. Will Kohberger speak? After the victims family and friends deliver their statements, Kohberger will be given the chance to speak, in whats known as an allocution a defendants right to address the court before sentencing. Defendants might use their statement to express remorse, ask for mercy or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing. But because the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantee of the right to remain silent remains in effect during sentencing hearings, they can choose not to speak at all. That means Kohberger doesnt have to say anything and the judge cant force him to. In past court appearances, Kohberger has remained stoic, emotionless, and silent. At his plea deal hearing, he confessed to the murders, the first time the public had heard his voice in years. He confirmed the facts of the crime with a simple yes. Yes, he entered the King Road house; yes, he intended to commit murder but offered no elaboration. Brian Kohberger, charged in the murders of four University of Idaho students, appears at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. (AP) Kohberger has not explained why he committed these murders nor has he offered any details about the crime. And hes not required to. The plea agreement includes no obligation for him to share a motive, nor to apologize or express remorse. If he does decide to speak, anything he says is not under oath and he cannot be cross-examined. Even if he declines to speak now, Kohberger could choose to talk in the future. Theres nothing in the plea agreement preventing him from speaking to the media or publishing a book. Motive a mystery that remains unsolved Despite Kohbergers guilty plea, the most haunting question still lingers: why? At the time of the killings, Kohberger was a criminal justice graduate student at Washington State University, and prosecutors say he used his knowledge about forensic investigations to attempt to cover his tracks by deep cleaning his vehicle after the crime. Kohberger was arrested nearly seven weeks after the killings, when investigators linked him to the crime through DNA left at the scene, surveillance video of a car matching his, and cellphone data. Police say Kohberger's Amazon purchase history shows he bought a military-style knife as well as the knife sheath found at the home. But the knife itself was never found. And while a clear motive has not been presented the sentencing may not provide one. President Donald Trump weighed in Monday, posting on Truth Social: I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. The Goncalves family acknowledged his statement and in a post on Facebook, wrote: I definitely do not want to get into politics at all so I hesitated even posting this but wow. Absolutely shocked. Kaylee, Maddie, Xana, Ethan - you have always mattered so much. You are so loved & your nature, your light, your entire being is so bright & visible. You guys did this. You guys deserve every last ounce of recognition for this. Roommates Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21 (Instagram) A trove of evidence, including investigative documents and witness statements, remains under court protection and could be released after the sentencing. Last week, Hippler lifted the gag order but declined to unseal the files before sentencing. He said the court would begin reviewing them, starting with the newest. That process could take months. Families divided over plea deal News of the plea deal divided the victims families. Kaylee Goncalves father, Steve Goncalves, criticized prosecutors for failing to consult the families. Today was the day to find out what happened, he said after the plea hearing earlier this month. At least thats what we hoped for, but hope is really all we had. Others, however, welcomed the plea deal. Karen and Scott Laramie, parents of Madison Mogen, said avoiding a lengthy trial spared them additional trauma. Victim father Steve Goncalves reacts to the expected guilty plea of suspect Bryan Kohberger in Boise (Reuters) We support the plea agreement 100 percent, their attorney said. We ask that others respect our belief that this is the best outcome possible. Stacy Chapin, mother of Ethan, acknowledged her familys initial desire for the death penalty but ultimately agreed with the prosecutors decision. We always felt like this was a better deal, she said. It allowed us to begin the process of healing. A death sentence would have triggered years of appeals and uncertainty. Under the plea, Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars and he has forfeited his right to appeal. After the sentencing: What comes next? As part of Kohbergers plea agreement, he accepted the maximum sentence for each count of murder and burglary. Hippler is not required to follow the deal, but cannot exceed it. When the sentencing hearing is over, Kohberger will be transferred to the custody of the Idaho Department of Correction. Hell undergo an evaluation before being assigned to a state prison. Protesters surrounded an empty hotel in Londons finance district after false rumours online suggested it was being used for migrants from another hotel, where riots have broken out. The Home Office has earmarked more than 400 beds at the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf, which it says it will use to house migrants at 81 per night per person. Protesters gathered at the site on Tuesday after social media posts claimed migrants were being moved there from the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, which has been the scene of violent protests over the past few days. So far, 10 people have been arrested in connection with that disorder, which was sparked when an asylum seeker was charged with sexual assault. Tommy Robinson, the far-right activist, is among those who claimed online that migrants were being transferred to the London hotel from Epping. The rumours sparked protests and counterprotests, with police drafted to the scene on Tuesday, despite the hotel currently sitting empty. Police attended as demonstrators gathered outside the hotel (Getty) Demonstrators had also seized on online claims that migrants were being housed at 400 a night, five times more than the actual cost, which the government will not be charged until migrants move in. Asylum seekers are not being removed from The Bell Hotel in Epping, a Home Office spokesperson said. Reform MP Lee Anderson was accused of further stoking division by attending the protest outside the Canary Wharf hotel and warning of an influx of illegal migrants. What are we playing at? he asked on social media. He posted a clip in which he said he is absolutely furious and that families across the UK would not be able to afford a nights stay in the hotel. Care4Calais head of advocacy Charlotte Khan hit out at Mr Anderson for his video. She said: The truth is, MPs should be more responsible than to sow division and hatred in our communities. She added: MPs ... who spread misinformation and hate that dehumanises refugees should be held accountable for their role in encouraging violence and racism on our streets. Nathan Phillips, head of campaigns at the charity Asylum Matters, hit out at the demonstrations which he said had morphed into yet more racist violence. In that context, its clear how disgracefully dangerous and utterly irresponsible it is for an MP to use his platform to identify a site where people are about to be housed and encourage his followers to protest against it. Its appalling that theres no accountability for an elected official who actively encourages the exact same sort of protests that have led to violence and arrests in Epping this week. In Essex, local Conservative MP Dr Neil Hudson warned that the riots were a crisis that has reached boiling point. Reforms Lee Anderson said he was furious (Getty) Essex Police made 10 arrests after more than 500 gathered outside the hotel, with rioters attacking police vans and injuring a police officer. On Sunday night, two security guards working at the Bell Hotel were also attacked at a bus stop, and are recovering in hospital. Giving an update to the media in Chelmsford on Wednesday, Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: I want to thank the people of Epping, I want to thank the people of Essex. I also want to thank all those who have turned up to protest and express their views peacefully and lawfully, because there have been many of those. What has been unacceptable has been the people who have come to Epping and committed violence, who have attacked people who work at the hotel, who have attacked officers, who have damaged property and who have caused fear and disruption to the people of Epping. That is not tolerable, it will not be tolerated, and to that end, we have made 10 arrests. He appealed to the people of Essex to help us to do our job and make sure everyone can express their rights and their views safely and peacefully. The latest demonstrations come a day after Angela Rayner issued an ultimatum to Sir Keir Starmer, warning that the UK faces a repeat of last years summer riots unless the government shows it can address peoples concerns. The deputy prime minister said economic insecurity, immigration, the increasing time people spend online, and declining trust in institutions were having a profound impact on society. And, amid fears this summer could see riots similar to those in the wake of the Southport murders last year, Ms Rayner said it was urgent Sir Keir delivers tangible improvements to living standards. Of the 18 places hit with the worst rioting last summer, Ms Rayner noted that 17 are among the countrys most deprived areas. Michael Gove on Wednesday branded the comments about a repeat of last summers violence a big mistake which could tacitly encourage fresh riots. The Tory ex-minister said Ms Rayner was right to acknowledge concern across the country about immigration and living standards and encourage the government to prove it can deliver. But Mr Gove told ITV: I think this is a mistake on Labour, to brief this out, I think it is a big mistake, it reminds me of what happened in the 1970s when [former US president] Jimmy Carter, when America was going through difficult times, said this country is in the grip of a malaise. You do not, if you are the government, accentuate the negative in this way and you certainly dont suggest to people that violence might be about to break out in this way. A spokesperson for Tower Hamlets Council, the authority responsible for Canary Wharf, called on the government to ensure that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place, they added. Farage claim that police drove protesters to demo is not true senior officer The Chief Constable of Essex Police has denied that officers drove counter-protesters to a demonstration outside a hotel housing asylum seekers after claims made by Nigel Farage. The Reform UK leader called for the resignation of Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington in a post on X. There have been a series of demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, since an asylum seeker was charged with sexual assault this month. The force has issued a dispersal order which will be in place from 2pm on Thursday until 8am on Friday, and covers an area including the town centre and transport hubs and networks such as the tube station. It gives officers the power to direct anyone suspected of committing anti-social behaviour, or planning to do so, to leave the area or face arrest. Clacton MP Mr Farage said, alongside footage shared online on Wednesday: This video proves @EssexPoliceUK transported left-wing protesters to the Bell Hotel in Epping. There is no way Chief Constable BJ Harrington can stay in position. Mr Harrington told a press conference on Wednesday that the issue was not about my resignation, the issue is about an effective police operation. He said that accusations that officers drove people to the protest were not true. Weve not driven anybody to that protest, he said. People made their own way there. We did take people away for their safety, for the safety of everyone there, because it was the best operational thing to do to prevent violence, to defuse the situation. The force said officers did provide a foot cordon around protesters on their way to the protest and later escorted some away from the protest by vehicle for their safety. Asked about the claims made online, Mr Harrington said: Its not for me to silence or try to say to people what they should or shouldnt say. My appeal to people, whether theyre the leader of a national party or just somebody whos got a comment to make, is please consider the consequences in the real world of your actions. Conservative MP for Epping Forest Neil Hudson, asked about Mr Farages comments, told Sky News that what some politicians are saying is not correct. He added: Essex Police are putting themselves in harms way to keep people safe and its very important that we have the facts, and we have no misinformation. But Im categorical, I am fully in support of Essex Police and Im very grateful for what theyre doing. The MP urged the Government to get a grip on this issue and close the hotel immediately. The protests came after an asylum seeker, 38-year-old Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, was charged with sexual assault after allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. He denied the charges when he appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court last week and he is due to stand trial in August. Protesters holding up a flag of St George after a protest in Epping (Yui Mok/ PA) Mr Harrington said, on Wednesday, that officers had made 10 arrests following the protests. The force said on Tuesday that four men have been charged with violent disorder and a fifth man charged with failing to remove a face covering when directed. Political activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, said on his X account on July 20 that he was coming to Epping next Sunday and bringing thousands more with me. Asked about the prospect of protests at the weekend, Mr Harrington said: We will have a robust policing operation. Essex is safe. You will have hundreds of officers on duty. He said that legitimate people who want to go and protest outside that hotel have the right to do so if theyre peaceful and lawful. I come back to the point where people break the law, where they smash up police vans, where they assault workers from the hotel, where they are chasing people away, he said. Those are the people that we will not tolerate and we will deal with. Elsewhere, protesters gathered outside a hotel believed to be housing asylum seekers in Diss, Norfolk, earlier in the week. Norfolk Police said in a statement that officers maintained a presence at a site in Denmark Street on Monday evening to ensure the safety of all involved at a planned protest. The force said that no arrests were made and it continued to monitor the situation. The Metropolitan Police said officers attended a protest outside a hotel in Canary Wharf on Tuesday. The site is reportedly to be used to offer temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. The force said in a statement that no arrests were made and officers remain in the area to deal with any incidents. Matt Wrack has been elected as the permanent general secretary of the NASUWT teaching union. The union held its first contested leadership election in decades after it faced legal action over the appointment of its new leader. Mr Wrack, the former leader of the Fire Brigades Union, secured 5,249 votes to beat Neil Butler, NASUWTs national officer for Wales, who received 3,126 votes, the union has announced. A postal ballot of members closed on Wednesday. Only 4.7% of eligible NASUWT members took part in the first contested leadership election since 1990. Mr Wrack was announced as union leader in April after he was endorsed by the national executive to replace Patrick Roach. However, Mr Butler took legal action against the union after its national executive committee told him he was not eligible to stand for the position as a non-member. Mr Butler and Luke Lockyer, the unions president in Wales, sought injunctive relief to force the union to reopen nominations. NASUWT reached an agreement to head off High Court legal action over the ballot, and the union agreed to pay 65,000 of Mr Butler and Mr Lockyers costs and VAT. Dr Patrick Roach was the previous NASUWT general secretary (PA) NASUWT announced in June that the leadership election would go ahead after Mr Wrack and Mr Butler both met the threshold of being nominated either by the NASUWT national executive or by a minimum of 25 local associations. Mr Wrack said: I am immensely honoured to be elected general secretary of NASUWT. I want to thank every member who participated in this election for placing their trust in me. NASUWT is a proud and powerful voice for teachers, and together we will make that voice even stronger. I pay tribute to Dr Patrick Roach for his years of service and to Neil Butler for a spirited campaign that highlighted the issues our members care about. Now, our priority is unity and action. Teachers have endured years of underinvestment, overwork, and undervaluing of our profession. We urgently need Government to invest in education that means fair pay, manageable workloads, and safe, respectful working environments for staff and students. I will work tirelessly with our executive and activists across all nations to secure the conditions and respect teachers deserve. This is a critical moment for education, and NASUWT will lead the way in fighting for our members rights. Wayne Broom, NASUWT president, said: We congratulate Matt on his election as general secretary of NASUWT. This election engaged our members up and down the country, and the result reflects their confidence in his leadership. Matt will play a vital role in the next chapter of the unions work on behalf of teachers across the UK. The national executive and I look forward to working closely with him as we continue our mission to put teachers first. We also want to thank Neil Butler for standing in this election and for his ongoing service to NASUWT his dedication exemplifies the strength of this unions democracy. Black Sabbath bassist Terence Geezer Butler has said he is so glad the band reunited with Ozzy Osbourne one final time, just weeks before the singers death at the age of 76. The music superstars death was announced in a statement to the PA news agency saying he was with his family and surrounded by love. In a post on Instagram, Butler paid tribute to his long-time bandmate and friend, reflecting on their final performance together during a farewell concert at Birminghams Villa Park earlier this month. Thanks for all those years- we had some great fun. 4 kids from Aston- whod have thought, eh? he captioned an Instagram post. So glad we got to do it one last time, back in Aston. Love you. The emotional tribute came as bandmates Bill Ward and Tony Iommi also expressed their grief. Iommi, the bands guitarist, said he was devastated by the news. Its just such heartbreaking news that I cant really find the words, there wont ever be another like him, he wrote on Instagram. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother. Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, youre forever in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever. Bill Ward pic.twitter.com/2HSaIZfkX2 Bill Ward (@billwarddrums) July 22, 2025 Ward, Black Sabbaths drummer, posted a photo of himself and Osbourne on X, writing: Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls no, youre forever in my heart. Earlier this month, Osbourne bid farewell to fans with a Black Sabbath reunion, telling thousands of heavy metal enthusiasts at Villa Park a stones throw from where the band was formed in 1968 that it was so good to be on this stage as he performed his last set from a large black throne. A family statement said: It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Singer Yungblud, who performed Changes at the concert on July 5 with a recording of the live cover released for charity, paid tribute to Osbourne, calling him the greatest of all time. Osbourne and his fellow original Black Sabbath members were the last to appear on stage as part of the star-studded line-up for the Back to the Beginning concert. Bands including Anthrax, Metallica and Guns N Roses were on the lineup, and there were messages of thanks from other celebrities including Jack Black, Ricky Gervais and Dolly Parton. In an Instagram post, the singer, whose real name is Dominic Harrison, shared photos of the moment he gave the late heavy metal singer a cross on a necklace, similar to the one Osbourne had previously given to him. He wrote: I didnt think you would leave so soon the last time we met you were so full of life and your laugh filled up the room. But as it is written with legends, they seem to know things that we dont. I will never forget you you will be in every single note I sing and with me every single time I walk on stage. Your cross around my neck is the most precious thing I own. You asked me once if there was anything you could do for me and as I said then and as I will say now for all of us the music was enough. You took us on your adventure an adventure that started it all. I am truly heartbroken. You were the greatest of all time. Sir Elton John described Ozzy Osbourne as a dear friend and huge trailblazer (Ian West/PA) Fans left tributes thanking Osbourne for bringing Birmingham together at the scene of a mural honouring the band in the city. Dozens of bunches of flowers, candles and cards have been left underneath Osbournes picture on the Navigation Street mural. One tribute reads: There are no words, truly. Thank you for everything, for all the music, for the endless and timeless discography. You have touched millions, my whole life your music has played almost as if raising me. Youve gave my family memories, a history of them, even recently at your last gig you bought us so much happiness, its unreal. Another simply read: Thank you for bringing Birmingham together Ozzy. The producers and director of upcoming documentary Ozzy Osbourne: No Escape From Now, which began filming in early 2022 during the rockers recording sessions for his 13th studio album, and is set to air on Paramount+ later this year, also paid tribute to Osbourne. Directed by Bafta award-winner Tania Alexander, the documentary is being produced by UK production house Echo Velvet in partnership with the Osbournes and MTV Entertainment Studios, with Phil Alexander one of the executive producers. A statement from Tania and Phil Alexander, on behalf of Echo Velvet, said: We are truly heartbroken to hear the news of Ozzys passing. Filming with him, Sharon, Aimee, Kelly and Jack for the last three-and-a-half years will always be a cherished and remarkable experience largely because we got to regularly witness Ozzys indomitable spirit, his mischievous, irresistible grin and his masterful display of unique one-liners. We will always love you dear Oz. And we send love and strength to Sharon and her family. Sir Elton John described Osbourne as a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods. He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods a true legend, Sir Elton wrote on Instagram, adding: He was also one of the funniest people Ive ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love. Elton xx. Osbournes theatrical stage presence, including once biting off the head of a bat and styling himself as the Prince of Darkness, marked him out as a controversial figure. Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3 1948, in Aston, Birmingham, he left school at 15 and did odd jobs, including factory work, before teaming up with school friend Butler in several bands. Black Sabbath went on to become one of the most influential and successful metal bands of all time, selling more than 75 million albums worldwide. The group were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 and Osbourne was added for a second time last year. He rose to further fame alongside his wife Sharon whom he married in 1982 and with whom he has three children, Aimee, Jack and Kelly through their MTV reality TV series The Osbournes. Ozzy Osbourne with wife Sharon and his Golden God award at the Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards 2018 (Ian West/PA) In 2020, Osbourne revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease and he paused touring in 2023 after extensive spinal surgery. He had a fall at home in 2019, which aggravated injuries from a near-fatal quad bike crash in 2003, stopping his No More Tours 2 shows from going ahead in Europe and the UK. The tour had previously been rescheduled several times because of illness, the Covid-19 pandemic and logistical issues. He told Good Morning America in January 2020 that it was discovered he had the neurodegenerative disorder after a fall. He said: I did my last show New Years Eve at The Forum. Then I had a bad fall. I had to have surgery on my neck, which screwed all my nerves and I found out that I have a mild form. He and wife Sharon, who was also his manager, met when she was 18 and they married on July 4 1982 in Hawaii. Daughter Kelly, 40, duetted with her father on the UK number one single Changes in 2003. He released his 12th studio album Ordinary Man in 2020, followed by Patient Number 9 in 2022, which went to number three and two in the UK charts, respectively. Germany has passed a law titled the Bundeswehrbeschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz to speed up the process of buying helicopters, tanks and frigates for its army. In a country notorious for cumbersome bureaucracy, weapons procurement is being streamlined as part of a rearmament plan by Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor. Ironically, the law, which is supposed to make life easier for defence contractors and trade negotiators, is one of the longest words in the German language and difficult to pronounce. Passed on Wednesday, ministers hope the Bundeswehrbeschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz [federal armed forces procurement efficiency law] will simplify the process of buying weapons and equipment. It will enable major defence firms to secure contracts faster and improve access for start-up businesses, particularly in new areas of defence, such as the drone sector. Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, speaking in Hanover - Ronny Hartmann/AFP Boris Pistorius, German defence minister, is said to be frustrated by long delays in acquiring new kit for the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces, such as frigates and armoured vehicles. According to Tagesschau, a German news website, his defence ministry is particularly worried about progress on the F126 frigate project, which is expected to be delayed by at least two years. Another contract with a Dutch company to provide the German navy with six ships by 2028 has also run aground, the newspaper said, amid speculation that the deal could be dropped altogether. A multi-billion euro project to deliver the Heavy Weapon Carrier, a high-tech armoured vehicle, has also been plagued by delays. Boris Pistorius, German defence minister, visits the German armys Innovation Lab - Angelika Warmuth/Angelika Warmuth The Bundeswehrbeschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz is part of Germanys wider efforts to become a major security power in response to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. Mr Merz has vowed Germany is back and has already passed historic reforms to unlock potentially unlimited public spending on new German defence projects. The centre-Right Christian Democrats leader has committed to Natos target of spending 5 per cent of GDP on defence, and is also considering a return to conscription, which was scrapped by Germany in 2011 because it was believed to be no longer necessary. The Bundeswehr this year launched its first permanent overseas deployment since the Second World War, sending an armoured brigade to Lithuania to help secure Natos eastern frontier with Russia. Running at 43 letters long, Bundeswehrbeschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz is one of the longest words in German. Germany is no stranger to having very long names for laws and business regulations, such as Rindfleischetikettierungsueberwachungsaufgabenuebertragungsgesetz, an archaic rule about beef standards which was once the longest German word. The longest official German word, at 72 letters, is Donaudampfschiffahrtselektrizitatenhauptbetriebswerkbauunterbeamtengesellschaft, referring to a trade association for steamboats. A research facility in Mountain View, California, on 13 May 2025. Photograph: Carlos Barria/Reuters Google exceeded Wall Street expectations for the quarter ending in June after closing out a few months of AI-related momentum. On Wednesday, the company reported $2.31 in earnings per share (EPS) on $96.4bn in revenue, surpassing analysts projections of $2.18 EPS on $94bn in sales. Googles chief executive, Sundar Pichai, pointed to robust growth in key spaces across the company including AI, search, YouTube and Google Cloud. We are leading at the frontier of AI and shipping at an incredible pace, Pichai said in a statement. AI is positively impacting every part of the business, driving strong momentum. Search delivered double-digit revenue growth, and our new features, like AI Overviews and AI Mode, are performing well. We continue to see strong performance in YouTube as well as subscriptions offerings. And Cloud had strong growth in revenues, backlog and profitability. Googles AI chatbot, Gemini, now has more than 450 million monthly active users and AI Overviews, the AI-generated summaries that pop up automatically at the top of Google search results, has over 2 billion monthly active users across 200 countries and 40 languages, Pichai said on the investor call. To keep pace with the expansion and demand for its Cloud products and services, Google said it plans to increase its investment in capital expenditures from $75bn to $85bn. Pichai said there was a tight supply environment for datacenter and cloud computing infrastructure and that theres obviously a time delay with this additional investment, which will play out in the next few years. We are seeing significant demand for our comprehensive AI product portfolio, Pichai said on the call. Our AI infrastructure investments are crucial to meeting the growth in demand from cloud customers. Market reaction to the increased spending appeared mixed, said Jesse Cohen, senior analyst at Investing.com. While the increased spending underscores Alphabets commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in emerging technologies, it also raises concerns about potential impacts on near-term profitability, Cohen said in a statement. AI investments are fueling the companys strong CapEx commitments, though the market is questioning the pace of monetization. Some analysts say this is par for the course for companies looking to effectively compete in the AI and cloud computing space. It seems this is a necessary investment as the only factor limiting Googles growth is the constraints on computing that AI and cloud solutions need to run on, said Brian Mulberry, senior portfolio manager at Zacks Investment Management. Pichai spoke at length about many of the companys recent AI developments, though the company still trails behind major players like OpenAI. Just last week, OpenAI announced it would add Google Cloud to its suite of cloud storage providers for ChatGPT. The cloud business continues to benefit from robust enterprise demand, and the recent decision by OpenAI to run ChatGPT on Google Cloud after relying primarily on Microsoft is both symbolic and strategic, Scott Acheychek, COO of Rex Financial, said in a statement. It speaks to scale. It speaks to speed. And it underscores how Alphabets in-house AI stack is quietly turning into a competitive asset, winning business from names like Apple and Anthropic. While analysts still expect the company to report positive results for the second quarter of the year, some are concerned about its recent series of antitrust losses. A judge in April found that the firm acted illegally to build a monopoly of some of its advertising technology. That follows an August ruling that found Google engaged in anticompetitive behavior to protect its search monopoly. The firm said it saw a 12% increase in revenue across Google Services, which includes its core search engine, assuaging analyst concerns about recent reports and remarks that indicated Google searches have declined for the first time in 22 years. During Googles recent antitrust trial, for instance, the Apple senior vice-president of services, Eddy Cue, said Google searches in Safari had fallen for the first time in 22 years. He attributed that to the rise in the use of AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini and Microsoft Copilot for searches. Related: Google develops AI tool that fills missing words in Roman inscriptions Search remains the dominant cash engine and a tension point, Acheychek said. While OpenAIs ChatGPT is arguably a threat to Googles search business, its also a customer. That duality sums up the moment. This isnt necessarily a winner-take-all race; its a scramble to serve the exploding demand for generative tools, wherever they may live. Your favorite chocolate bar will soon come with a bigger price tag after Hershey announced it was raising the price of its candy over the high cost of cocoa. Hershey is expected to raise its prices for retail customers by double digits. Prices will generally increase between the low teens and 20 percent, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday, citing a company official. But the WSJ reports three-quarters of the candy makers products should continue to cost $4 or less. Hershey executives have said demand for its products has remained strong, per the WSJ. Your favorite chocolate bar will soon come with a bigger price tag after Hershey announced it was raising the price of its candy over the high cost of cocoa (Reuters) The company has yet to see its full profits for the summer, when consumers are inclined to grab a pack of Hersheys bars for Smores by the fire. High cocoa costs are to blame for the price increases at Hershey and other treat companies. Last December, cocoa prices hit over $12,000 per metric ton, according to the WSJ. While costs have fallen to about $8,100 per metric ton this week, they still exceed historic levels. West Africa, which accounts for about 70 percent of the worlds cocoa supply, has been hit with poor weather, plant disease, aging tree stocks and destructive small-scale gold mining. West Africa, which accounts for about 70 percent of the worlds cocoa supply, has been hit with poor weather, plant disease, aging tree stocks and destructive small-scale gold mining (AFP/Getty) While weather conditions have slightly improved, industry sources told Reuters earlier this month West Africa will likely see another 10 percent decline in cocoa output in the 2025 to 2026 season. The WSJ reported in another recent article Swiss chocolatier Lindt & Spruengli had attempted to pass rising cocoa costs onto consumers through price hikes, but even that wasnt enough to make up for the higher cocoa costs. Mondelez International, the owner of Oreo and Cadbury, also announced earlier this year it was expecting to increase chocolate prices because of higher cocoa costs, the WSJ reported in February. The former first minister of Scotland has said Israel is starving his wifes family in Gaza. Humza Yousaf and his wife Nadia El-Nakla said her cousin Sally, her four children and husband were being deliberately and forcefully starved by the Israeli government. Ms El-Nakla, an SNP councillor in Dundee, said her aunt Hanan, her children and grandchildren, including a seven-month-old baby, were also being starved. She said the town of Deir Al Balah, where her family live, was hit hard by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). Starving people were being forced to run while being shot and bombed, she said in a video alongside her husband on social media. Nadia's cousin Sally, and her four children are being starved by Israel. Millions in Gaza are being deliberately starved while Israel withholds food mere kilometres away. Words are not enough. Governments must act and force Israel to open the borders and allow aid to flow in. pic.twitter.com/MqaabT5sQQ Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) July 23, 2025 Mr Yousaf said children in Gaza were being starved, displaced, bombed, all while the world watches. The former SNP leader said: Sally is one of millions in Gaza. Her husband goes out all day searching for food, often to come home with nothing. And when I say home, I mean a tent and almost 40 degree heat. He said that doctors in Gaza were becoming too weak to treat patients while journalists were becoming too weak to report the silent killer of starvation. This is a deliberate starvation of the Palestinian people, Ms El-Nakla added. Food and water are a mere kilometres away. This form of warfare is sickening and the stories and images from my family and millions of others in Gaza are absolutely gut-wrenching. Can you imagine not being able to feed your children yet knowing the food you so desperately need is only a few miles away? Humza Yousaf said the world was watching as Gaza is being starved (Andrew Milligan/PA) She went on: Sallys life matters, Palestinian lives matter, and I am begging those who have the power to open the borders to do so now and let the people of Gaza live. Mr Yousaf urged world leaders to take action to force Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. He said: Fathers like me, parents like us, children like ours, being starved, displaced, bombed, all while the world watches. Governments might stay silent, they may refuse to act, but we wont. Writing on X, he added: Words are not enough. Governments must act and force Israel to open the borders and allow aid to flow in. More than 100 aid agencies have warned that mass starvation is spreading across Gaza as Israel is accused of not allowing enough food, and other supplies, into the area. The health ministry said 10 people have died from malnutrition in the last 24 hours. The UK was among 28 nations that accused Israel of the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians seeking food and water. The Palestinian health ministry said earlier this week that 100 Palestinians had been killed by the IDF while waiting for food over the weekend. The UK Government is facing calls to pressure Israel into allowing more aid into Gaza (Jeff Moore/PA) Israel said on Tuesday that 950 lorries worth of aid were waiting in Gaza for international organisations to distribute. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas, the proscribed terrorist group which controls Gaza, of stealing the food for itself. Mr Yousaf previously described the situation in Gaza as hell on Earth. Ms El-Naklas parents, Maged and Elizabeth El-Nakla, had been trapped in the enclave for four weeks after visiting family when the war broke out after Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. They later left through Egypt with other British nationals, although Mr Yousaf said his father-in-law had become a shell of a man following their traumatic month in Gaza. The UK Government and the Israeli embassy in London have been approached for comment. A judge Wednesday sentenced Bryan Kohberger to die in prison for the senseless slaughter of four Idaho college students after the killer refused to reveal his motive before learning his fate. An emotional and, at times, choked up Judge Steven Hippler condemned Kohberger to spend the rest of his life behind bars for committing unspeakable evil as he handed him four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. On Nov. 13, 2022, Kohberger broke into the off-campus home of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, in the small town of Moscow during the middle of the night and stabbed the students to death as most of them slept. The only time Kohberger spoke at Wednesdays hearing was to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court or reveal why he committed the gruesome crimes. Parents who took their children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, Hippler said before pronouncing his sentence in the Boise, Idaho courtroom. Bryan Kohberger appeared in the courtroom in Boise, Idaho, dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs. He was sentenced to life without parole for the murders of the four Idaho college students. (AP) To this day, investigators have not found a single connection between Kohberger and his victims, Idaho State Police Lt. Darren Gilbertson said at a press conference after the hearing. Sentencing Kohberger, the judge acknowledged the families longing to understand the murderers motive, and said we may never know why. By continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency. We give him power, Hippler said. The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave. During the nearly three-hour hearing, devastated parents, grandparents, siblings and surviving roommates of the four slain students told Kohberger that nobody cares about him as they confronted the mass murderer. Kohberger, dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit and wearing handcuffs, was emotionless and even looked bored most of the time as he slouched back in his chair but occasionally flinched as he listened to heart-wrenching statements in the courtroom. Kohberger broke into the home of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, in the small town of Moscow during the middle of the night and stabbed the students to death. (Instagram) Through tears and rage, the families told Kohberger of the agony his crimes have inflicted upon them and what they have endured over the last few years. Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson was also brought to tears as he recommended Kohberger spend the rest of his life behind bars. Steve Goncalves, the father of Kaylee Goncalves, turned to face Kohberger head-on to deliver his powerful impact statement. Nobody cares about you, he told the killer. From this moment, we'll forget you. You tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us. You failed. You united everyone in their disgust for you. The parents of Kaylee Goncalves, who told Kohberger nobody cares about him. (AP) The worlds watching because of the kids, not because of you. Nobody cares about you. In time, you will be nothing but two initials, forgotten to the wind, Steve Goncalves added. He called Kohberger a joke as he also described how easy it was to track him down. Police officers tell us within minutes they had your DNA. Like a calling card. You were that careless. That foolish. That stupid. Master degree? Youre a joke. Complete joke, Goncalves mocked. Kaylees sister, Alivea Goncalves, unleashed on Kohberger, calling him a psychopath in a statement that drew applause for the way she laid into the killer. The truth is, youre basic, she said, directly speaking to Kohberger. Let me be very clear: Dont ever try to convince yourself you matter just because someone finally said your name out loud. I see through you, she said. Sit up straight when I talk to you, she demanded of the slouching murderer. Kaylees sister, Alivea Goncalves, unleashed on Kohberger, calling him a Psychopath in a statement that drew applause for the way she laid into the killer. (AP) Disappointments like you thrive on pain. I wont feed your beast, she said. Instead, I will call you what you are. Sociopath. Psychopath. Murderer. You want the the truth? Heres the one youll hate the most: If you hadnt attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night, like a pedophile, Kaylee wouldve kicked your f***ing ass, Alivea Goncalves raged at Kohberger. The courtroom broke out in applause. Kaylees mom, Kristi Goncalves, told Kohberger that hell will be waiting. You are nothing. May you continue to live your life in misery. You are officially the property of the state of Idaho, where your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival, she said. Loved ones of Xana Kernodle also condemned Kohberger to hell. You are going to suffer. I am shaking because I want to reach out to you. Go to hell, said Randy Davis, Xanas stepfather, as he pointed at Kohberger in a rage. Xanas mother, Cara Northington, read an emotional letter to her daughter, who had a light so bright it will live on forever. Dylan Mortensen, comforted by a loved one in the court, told Kohberger that he was a hollow vessel, something less than human. (AP) Nothing man can do to you can ever compare to the wrath of God, Northington said. Inveitably, youll stand before our Lord and youll have to answer to him over the sins youve committed in murdering our children. Dylan Mortensen, one of the two roommates who survived the killings, told Kohberger he was evil as she defiantly told him he would never take away her voice. Through tears, Mortensen told Kohberger that he was a hollow vessel, something less than human. The other surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, whose statement was read aloud by a friend, revealed that she slept in her parents bedroom for a year after the murders. Funke also expressed regret over not calling 911 sooner. Cara Northington, Xana Kernodles mother, read an emotional letter to her daughter, who had a light so bright it will live on forever. (AP) Madison Mogens stepfather, Scott Laramie, said that the family will grow old without our only child in an emotional statement that shared the crushing loss of an only child who was just about to embark on the world. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Maddie was taken senselessly and brutally in a sudden act of evil, Laramie said. Since Maddies loss, theres emptiness in our hearts, home and family -- an endless void. Kohbergers mother, accompanied in court by his sister, quietly sobbed as parents of the victims described their grief. Chapins family was not at the hearing, but his mom, Stacy, shared a picture of her son as a child to her Instagram story with a blue love heart. Kohberger, pictured at the plea-deal hearing on July 2, will be given the chance to speak in whats known as an allocution, but he doesnt have to say anything and the judge cant force him to. (AP) True crime fans, members of the public and the media were camped out all night to ensure they get a glimpse of the killer inside the Ada County Courthouse. For more than two years, Kohberger maintained his innocence. His long-awaited trial was just weeks away and scheduled for August 18, but in a bombshell twist, he pleaded guilty on July 2. The sudden plea deal took the death penalty off the table. The families of Kohbergers victims have been longing for an answer to one simple question: Why? His motive remains a mystery and will likely remain so. Defendants can use their statement to express remorse, ask for mercy or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing. But because the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantee of the right to remain silent remains in effect during sentencing hearings, they can choose not to speak at all. Kohbergers team of defense attorneys announced last week that they won't be releasing any statements after the sentencing. President Donald Trump weighed in Monday, posting on Truth Social: I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. The murders shook the small town of Moscow in November 2022. For weeks, only scant details about the carnage that night were revealed as the community reeled from the tragedy and grappled with fears of a murderer on the loose. Kohberger, a graduate student at Washington State University at the time of the murders, wasnt arrested until six weeks later, on December 30, 2022. At the plea-deal hearing earlier this month, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson outlined chilling details of the night of the murders. He told the court how Kohberger broke into the six-bedroom three-storey house and headed to the third floor, where he killed Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves first. The selfie Kohberger took at his home in Pullman, Washington state, just hours after carrying out the murders, the prosecution said. (Latah County Prosecutors Office) Then, he killed Xana Kernodle after encountering her while she was picking up a DoorDash delivery, before stabbing her boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, who was asleep in their bedroom. Two others, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, were the only roommates to survive the killings, with Mortensen coming face to face with Kohberger at one terrifying moment. After fleeing the scene, prosecutors said that Kohberger took a selfie that morning at his Pullman residence in Washington state, approximately 9.5 miles from Moscow, with his thumbs up. The leather sheath from the knife Kohberger used to murder Goncalves and Mogen was discovered on the bed, but the weapon itself has never been found. Six weeks later, Kohberger was arrested at his parents home in Pennsylvania. Kohberger was linked to the crime through cellphone location records, police said, and security video of a white Hyundai Elantra, a similar model of the car seen near the murder home around the time of the murders. Kohberger changed the license plates on his Hyundai Elantra just days after the murders. After changing his plea to guilty, both sides in the case agreed to a proposed sentence of four consecutive life sentences without parole, in addition to 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger waived his right to appeal any issues in the case, without the possibility of parole. This is a breaking story, check back for live updates Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi at the G20 summit in Brazil in November 2024. Photograph: WPA/Getty Images Indias prime minister, Narendra Modi, is visiting London to sign a landmark free trade agreement between his country and the UK, a pact viewed as a political and economic prize amid global trade tensions unleashed by the US president, Donald Trump. For Britain, eager to score a post-Brexit win, the deal is its most economically significant trade agreement since leaving the EU. For India, it marks its first major free trade pact outside Asia. For both, analysts say, the agreement signals a long-term economic partnership. The UK and India, in many ways we have complementarities. We have had a historical relationship. Its good to have a deeper trade relationship, said Indian economist Sanjaya Baru. During Modis two-day official visit starting on Wednesday, his fourth to the UK as prime minister, he will hold wide-ranging talks with his counterpart, Keir Starmer, on trade, defence, technological cooperation and security, and will also pay a courtesy call on King Charles, according to an Indian government statement. India stood firm on key demands during negotiations, winning concessions on work visas, recognition of professional qualifications, and exemptions from national insurance contributions for Indian nationals working temporarily in the UK, all longstanding sticking points. Modi, accompanied by his commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, who led the negotiations, can claim India held its ground while the UK compromised, bolstering his message of Indias rising global clout. However, the deal must still be ratified by both parliaments, likely delaying implementation until mid-2026. Under the agreement, 99% of Indian exports to the UK, spanning gems, textiles, engineering goods, leather, garments, and processed foods, will face zero tariffs. In return, the UK will see phased tariff cuts on 90% of its exports to India. Duties on scotch whisky will fall from 150% to 75% immediately and to 40% over 10 years. British cars, now facing tariffs of more than 100%, will see duties slide to 10% under a quota. Other gains include tariff relief on medical devices, pharmaceuticals, aircraft parts, and electronics. Indias government hopes the agreement will inject new energy into its Make in India drive and revive foreign direct investment, which has slowed significantly. More than 5m export-related jobs in India can be linked to UK exports, said Amrita Saha, a research fellow at the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex. Overall, I believe this agreement is a positive step for Indias labour-intensive sectors, she told the Hindu newspaper. Crucially, India kept agriculture, an industry that employs more than 40% of its workforce, off the table. This red line for New Delhi has also stalled its trade talks with the US. Still, only the broad contours of the agreement, which marks a significant departure from Indias traditionally protectionist trade stance, are public. We will have to look at the fine print the morning after, Baru cautioned. Some provisions, such as phased duty cuts on scotch and cars, could face backlash from domestic producers. Indian whisky makers have already voiced worries about unfair competition from imports. Also, in a significant first, British firms will gain access to Indias vast government procurement market, a potential breakthrough for sectors such as clean energy, transport, and infrastructure. Notably absent from the deal are financial and legal services, as talks on a bilateral investment treaty, which would offer investor protections, remain unresolved. Another sensitive issue, the UKs proposed carbon tax known as the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), was also left out. The policy, which would levy taxes on imports from countries with looser emissions rules, is seen by India as unfairly targeting developing economies. For now, the two sides appear to have kicked that issue down the road. However, the carbon tax remains the elephant in the room. It could wipe out the benefits of the free trade agreement for Indian exporters, warned Ajay Srivastava, head of the Global Trade Research Initiative in New Delhi. This article was amended on 23 July 2025. Narendra Modi is on an official visit rather than a state visit as stated in an earlier version. Milan won a reduced sprint with many of his rivals held up by the crash (AFP via Getty Images) Jonathan Milan avoided a late crash in Valence to sprint to his second victory of this year's Tour de France and strengthen his grip on the green jersey while Tadej Pogacar stayed safe in yellow. Several riders went down in wet, slippery conditions entering the last kilometre of the 160km stage from Bollene, blocking the road and leaving less than a dozen riders to contest the sprint - and from their number it was no surprise to see the in-form Milan hold off a late charge from Jordi Meeus. It was a victory Milan needed in the fight for the points leader's green jersey as his advantage over Pogacar at the start of the day was 11 points, and given this could prove to be the last chance for the sprinters with the Montmartre climb added to Sunday's final stage into Paris. The late crash meant that general classification times were neutralised for those in the front group, allowing Pogacar to roll home still four minutes and 15 seconds clear of Jonas Vingegaard going into two big stages in the Alps. Biniam Girmay was among the sprinters caught in the crash and the Eritrean looked in some discomfort after receiving treatment. Stage three and nine winner Tim Merlier, Milans major rival and the European champion, did not go down but was held up, unable to contest the sprint. I'm really happy, I'm without words, said Milan, who credited his Lidl-Trek team-mates after getting through Tuesday's stage to Mont Ventoux. I didn't survive alone, it's always with the help of team-mates. Without all of this, I already would not be here. They also helped me when I was dropped on the first climb [on stage 17, the Col du Pertuis] and then on the second climb did a really good pace. Milan edged out Meeus in a reduced sprint (AP) It was a difficult final because of the weather and the roundabouts, I was a bit scared but they helped me and this is really fantastic, it's really a team victory. In a Tour which has offered relatively few sprint opportunities, the fast men knew they needed to take this one. It was particularly the case for Milan, given the criticism directed at his team after they failed to fight for the points at Tuesday's intermediate sprint before Ventoux, jeopardising his position in the green jersey standings as Pogacar narrowed the gap to 11 points. Milan was dropped by the peloton on the first of two categorised climbs on this stage which had left open the possibility of a breakaway prospering here, but he recovered with the help of team-mate Quinn Simmons, who then put in another big turn to help reel in a four-man group up the road. A spectator was tackled by security attempting to cycle over the finish line (AFP via Getty Images) The last of those escapees, Jonas Abrahamsen, was reeled in four kilometres from the finish but by then rain was falling heavily, creating the treacherous conditions that led to the crash which effectively blocked the road under the flamme rouge. Milans points lead ballooned to 72 points, but he will still need to target the intermediate sprints in the mountains to be sure of holding off Pogacar, who has a narrow opportunity to become the first man to win all three major classifications at a Tour since Eddy Merckx in 1969. Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. Last week, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche asked judges in Florida and New York to release transcripts from grand jury proceedings that resulted in indictments against Epstein and Maxwell, saying, Transparency to the American public is of the utmost importance to this Administration. However, appeals from both the Trump administration and Maxwell were denied Wednesday by two separate judges. The evidence the Trump administration hoped to unseal, however, likely wouldnt reveal much, according to experts, who say prosecutors try to provide just enough to get charges not introduce an entire investigation. U.S. Judge Robin L. Rosenberg in West Palm Beach wrote in her ruling that the request to release the documents related to an investigation into Epstein from 2005 to 2007 did not meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under federal law that could make them public. Grand jury proceedings are typically done in secret and kept from public view. Meanwhile, New York federal Judge Paul A. Engelmayer wrote in a filing that Maxwell, who requested access to grand jury transcripts in her case, has not shown, or attempted to show, that the grand jury materials in her case are apt to reveal any deficiency in the proceedings leading to her indictment. Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. (US District Court for the Southern District of New York) Engelmayer wrote there was no compelling necessity for Maxwell to review her grand jury transcripts, which the Trump Administration has also requested to unseal. The Court will review these transcripts expeditiously. In the event the Court determines it would benefit from Maxwells commentary as to discrete aspect of these transcripts, the Court stands ready to make that excerpt, or a synopsis thereof, available to her counsel to facilitate counsels briefing, Engelmayer wrote. Engelmayer continued: But there is no justification for Maxwell to obtain the extraordinary relief of plenary access to the grand jury transcripts in her case. Both rejections come about a week after the Justice Department asked the judges to release the records, likely in a move to appease the MAGA base of President Donald Trump, many of whom believe the government has not been transparent with their investigation into Epstein. While Trump ran on the promise that more information would be released about Epstein and his associates, he has since reversed course, with Attorney General Pam Bondi releasing a joint memo with the FBI indicating there would be no more information shared about the financiers conviction. In 2008, Epstein made a deal with federal prosecutors in Florida that would let him avoid more serious federal charges and instead plead guilty to state charges of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and solicitation of prostitution. Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He later died by suicide in Manhattan federal court while awaiting trial. Maxwell was later convicted at trial and sentenced to 20 years in prison. After news of the rejection was made public Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters she would let the president speak to whether he wants to see an appeal. With reporting from the Associated Press. Sir Keir Starmer and Indias Narendra Modi are set to sign off on a trade deal worth 6 billion in investment for the British economy. The Prime Minister and his Indian counterpart also agreed ahead of their meeting on Thursday to ramp up joint efforts to tackle illegal migration and organised crime. The UK-India trade deal is understood to be the largest of its kind for its economic impact on Britain. It will see tariffs on an array of British goods reduced from an average of 15% to 3%, with the aim of boosting the 11 billion of imports into the south Asian nation. Whisky tariffs will be slashed in half, according to the Government, and will fall further over successive years, while other industries including soft drinks, cars and cosmetics are also expected to see cheaper duties. Before his meeting with Mr Modi to confirm the deal, Sir Keir said: Our landmark trade deal with India is a major win for Britain. It will create thousands of British jobs across the UK, unlock new opportunities for businesses and drive growth in every corner of the country, delivering on our Plan for Change. Were putting more money in the pockets of hardworking Brits and helping families with the cost of living, and were determined to go further and faster to grow the economy and raise living standards across the UK. The deal is expected to result in 2,200 jobs across the country and 6 billion investment by British and Indian businesses. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the investment will reach all regions and nations of the UK so working people in every community can feel the benefits. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds (James Manning/PA) He added: The almost 6 billion in new investment and export wins announced today will deliver thousands of jobs and shows the strength of our partnership with India as we ensure the UK is the best place in the world to invest and do business. The UK and India are also bolstering co-operation on tackling corruption, fraud, organised crime and illegal migration, by sharing criminal records and other intelligence. The deal has not given the UK as much access as it would have liked to Indias financial and legal services industries. The agreement promises some benefits for the UKs financial services, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves understood to have pushed on behalf of the sector in discussions with her Indian counterpart. But more wide-ranging access was not agreed, and talks continue on a bilateral investment treaty aimed at protecting British investments in India and vice versa. The two nations also continue to discuss UK plans for a tax on high-carbon industries, which India believes could hit its imports unfairly. The Prime Minister is being pressed to raise the case of Jagtar Singh Johal (Family handout/PA) Negotiations on the deal began when Boris Johnson was prime minister in 2022, and were concluded in May this year. Labour sought to portray closing the deal, as well as trade agreements with the US and the EU, as evidence of the Governments pragmatism and global outlook. But shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said it had only been made possible because of Brexit delivered by the Conservatives. He added: Any trade deal that can successfully cut regulation which stops Britains makers from creating new jobs and wealth will be a step in the right direction. But the irony should not be lost on anyone that any gains from this trade deal will be blown out of the water by (Deputy Prime Minister) Angela Rayners union charter, stifling business with red tape, the jobs tax and, come autumn, Rachel Reeves inevitable tax hikes that will punish Britains makers just to reward those who do not contribute. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has said that the signing sends a powerful signal that the UK is open for business and remains resolute in its commitment to free and fair trade. Chief executive Rain Newton-Smith added: A trade agreement with India one of the worlds fastest-growing economies is a springboard for long-term partnership and prosperity. UK firms can take advantage of this new platform to scale, diversify and compete on the global stage. Elsewhere, Sir Keir is facing calls to raise the case of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British citizen who has been detained in India since 2017, when the Prime Minister meets Mr Modi. The Scottish Sikh is accused of being a member of the Khalistan Liberation Force, which is banned as a terror group in India. His family say he is being arbitrarily detained, with his brother Gurpreet Singh Johal insisting the matter should be high on the agenda when the prime ministers meet. Lindsay Lohan alongside Lisa Ann Walter and Elaine Hendrix (Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney) Lindsay Lohan had a nostalgic reunion with her Parent Trap co-stars Lisa Ann Walter and Elaine Hendrix at the Los Angeles premiere of Freaky Friday 2. The 39-year-old actress turned heads on the red carpet outside the El Capitan Theatre on Tuesday night, wearing a pale pink custom Miu Miu gown. Walter, 61, coordinated in a sharp black-and-white pinstripe suit, while Hendrix, 54, opted for a blush pink gown adorned with silver floral beadwork. The trio famously starred in Disneys beloved 1998 remake of The Parent Trap. Lohan played both Hallie Parker and Annie James, twins separated at birth who reunite at summer camp to bring their parents (played by Dennis Quaid and the late Natasha Richardson) back together. Walter portrayed Quaids warm, no-nonsense housekeeper Chessy, while Hendrix portrayed the glam and conniving Meredith Blake, the 26-year-old fiancee the twins hilariously scheme to sabotage. Lohan posing with her former Parent Trap co-stars (Getty Images for Disney) Though neither Walter nor Hendrix appear in Freaky Friday 2, they turned out to support Lohan and her return to the screen alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the long-awaited sequel to Disneys 2003 body-swap comedy. The original Freaky Friday film sees Lohans character, Anna Coleman, swap bodies with her mother Tess, played by Curtis. In a teaser for the new film, slated for release in August, their characters appear to swap bodies with Annas daughter and soon-to-be stepdaughter. Speaking about her relationship with Curtis, who plays her mother in Freakier Friday, Lohan told ELLE in May: Were both very family-oriented people. We always talk about that, and one of the other big things (shes taught me) is to always take care of yourself first. Because without that, how can you do everything for everyone else? From left: Manny Jacinto, Jamie Lee Curtis, Julia Butters, Lohan, Sophia Hammons and Chad Michael Murray at the LA premiere (Getty Images for Disney) One Tree Hills Chad Michael Murray and NCIS actor Mark Harmon are reprising their roles in the sequel, while The Good Place and The Acolyte star Manny Jacinto has joined the cast as Lilys father Eric Davies. The 2003 previous film is based on the 1972 novel by Mary Rodgers, and was previously turned into a 1976 movie starring Jodie Foster and Barbara Harris. It is one of the many movies including Herbie Fully Loaded and Confessions Of A Teenage Drama Queen that turned Lohan into a household name, before she took a partial step back following years of tabloid attention. Her return to the screen has included a rom-com deal with Netflix which featured 2022s Falling For Christmas, last years Irish Wish and festive film Our Little Secret. Working with Germany, were building bridges between our people and paving the way for a more sustainable, connected future, said the transport secretary, Heidi Alexander. She was announcing a plan for a direct train between London and Berlin. A new task force will bring our nations closer together and create new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange, the minister said. A laudable aim but how feasible is it? Over to Mark Smith, the international rail guru who founded The Man in Seat 61 website. After years of experience as a front-line railwayman, he has devoted the past 24 years to encouraging and empowering people to switch from planes to trains. He (like me) desperately wants rail to succeed. You might expect Mr Smith to welcome the governments vision. But, he says bluntly: I dont think well see a direct London-Berlin train. Thousands of people fly between the English and German capitals each day. From the 6.40am departure from Gatwick on easyJet to Ryanairs 10.10pm arrival at Stansted, there are 17 flights each way, each day. That represents 5,400 passengers the equivalent of three round-trips by rail. History shows that when capacity is added to an intercity link, the number of travellers increases. And Mark Smith is convinced the demand is there for a London-Berlin link. He cites the new direct daytime express between Paris and the German capital. This eight-hour journey leaves heavily booked, he says. Up to 75 per cent of tickets are for the whole eight-hour journey. London to Berlin would take around nine hours, routed via Brussels and Cologne. With a journey only 60 minutes longer than the trip from Paris, and London being a much bigger travel hub than the French capital, it is fair to assume that much the same would apply. But the problem, says the Seat 61 founder, isnt demand its financial viability. The Paris-Berlin train stops in Strasbourg, Karlsruhe and Frankfurt, and is allowed to convey passengers between all those cities. Under present security and immigration rules, that would not be possible for international trains to and from London. In addition, a EU-UK border would be needed in Berlin together with a serious, semi-airline security check. That French train doesnt need to pay all the UK border and security costs, and can happily carry passengers between intermediate stations as well as end to end, says Mark Smith. With staff costs, track access costs, and rolling stock costs for London-Berlin being effectively double that for London-Cologne-Frankfurt, I cant see it being viable. He estimates the proportion of high-spending business travellers on a London-Berlin run as close to zero compared with perhaps 15 per cent on an airline-competitive four- or five-hour trip from London to Cologne or Frankfurt. Eurostar says it aims to start running Anglo-German trains to Cologne and Frankfurt by the early 2030s. Even among budget-focused travellers it is difficult to see London-Berlin succeeding because the airline industry is so effective at offering cheap deals. Looking ahead to Monday 1 September, the first day back at work for lots of people, Ryanair wants 25 for its 1h45m flight from Stansted to Berlin. The lowest one-way rail fare (involving multiple changes) is 350. Thats 14 times as much. The air fare looks too cheap, the train ticket way too expensive. But even in the course of a decade, I cant see that gap narrowing to the point where those London-Berlin trains become competitive. I hope I am proved wrong. Oasis fans are flocking to north east London today with the excitement of seeing the Gallagher brothers live in action once again as the band hold their first London concert in nearly two decades, The last time Oasiso played in London was 16 years ago, and now, more than 90,000 fans are making their way head to Wembley Stadium to see them reunite tonight (Friday July 25). And it will not just be Londoners there, with fans from all over Europe and the UK expected to come into the capital those the gig. To make it easier, rail passengers travelling to and from one of Londons busiest airports have been given a helping hand. Those travelling from Heathrow are being advised to take advantage of a cut price deal to get them to north west London. The Heathrow Express - a direct 15-minute service from London Paddington to Heathrow Central - is cutting fares to mark the return of the band, and says it is expecting a high number of travellers to use the service. Heathrow Express is offering 8 per cent off full fare tickets from Friday, July 25, to Sunday, August, 3. The discount is available when booking online or via the Heathrow Express app with the code OASIS8. The discount also extends to additional passengers booked on the same journey. The 8 per cent discount is a clever tribute to the bands eight UK number-one singles - and the discount will apply to both Express Class and Business First fares. Aoife Considine, Business Lead at Heathrow Express, said: We know this is more than just a gig - its a major moment for thousands of fans around the world. People are travelling hundreds of miles, often at great personal cost, to be part of it. We wanted to do something practical to support them. "Whether youre flying in from Manchester, Madrid or Melbourne, your journey into London should be as easy and affordable as possible - it should start on the right note. Madame Tussauds has unveiled 13 brand new Taylor Swift wax figures. The figures, launching simultaneously in 13 cities across four continents, aim to make guests feel as if they have stepped on stage at the Shake It Off hit makers record breaking The Eras Tour. A team of more than 40 highly skilled Madame Tussauds artists worked tirelessly for 14 months on this exciting project, featuring each of the 13 figures dressed in unique, fan favourite looks worn by Swift during her global jaunt, which spanned 149 sold out dates across five continents. Two of the figures will find a home in the UK at Madame Tussauds London and Blackpool. The Lover figure lands in London and takes inspiration from night two, in June 2024, of her eight night run at Wembley Stadium. This is the Love figure that will be featured in the London museum (Madame Tussauds) The new figure is dressed in a replica orange Versace leotard embellished with pink and purple detailing. The look is finished with matching crystallised ombre Christian Louboutin boots, donated by the Maison, and a bespoke microphone created by Rebel Stage Gear UK, the specialist customisation company behind the original microphones Taylor used during the tour. Meanwhile, Red takes centre stage in Blackpool, showcasing the Ashish red to black ombre embellished playsuit featured in the first and second leg of the tour. Taylor Swift in her Red ensemble will be coming to Blackpool (Madame Tussauds) It is paired with black Christian Louboutin loafers and a matching bespoke crystallised Rebel Stage Gear UK microphone. Ashish donated the matching fabric used for Taylors playsuit, enabling the talented Madame Tussauds artists to faithfully recreate the iconic look. This simultaneous multi figure launch is the most ambitious in Madame Tussauds 250 year history. Laura Sheard, Global Brand Director at Madame Tussauds, said: Taylor Swift is a generational icon and a cultural powerhouse. Madame Tussauds has a centuries old legacy of holding a mirror up to the world of fame, immortalising the profiles that are making an imprint on todays culture. Taylor Swifts influence spans music, fashion, film, activism, and even the economy. The phenomenal success of her record smashing tour is the perfect moment for Madame Tussauds to immortalise her with 13 figures, Taylors lucky number, across four continents to ensure we are reaching as many fans as possible. She added, We just know they are going to love it as much as we do. Police were called to Station Road just before 1am on Wednesday (Google Maps ) A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault in north west London. Police cordoned off an area of Station Road in Harrow following a serious incident in the early hours of this morning. Two forensic tents have been erected on the green outside St Johns Church opposite the former Debenhams building. Officers were called to reports of a sexual assault on Station Road just before 1am. A man in his 30s was arrested at the scene. The victim, in his 60s, is being supported by specialist officers. A spokesperson for Met Police said: Officers were called at 00:49hrs on Wednesday, 23 July to reports of a sexual assault on Station Road, Harrow. A man in his 30s was arrested at the scene on suspicion of sexual offences and remains in police custody. The victim, a man in his 60s, is being supported by specialist officers. A crime scene remains in place and there will be an increased police presence in the area. This is believed to be an isolated incident at this stage. A man who murdered four University of Idaho students in November 2022 has been sentenced to life in prison - as the mother of one of his victims expressed her disappointment that he won't be executed. Bryan Kohberger, a 30-year-old former criminal justice student, initially denied the killings but later pleaded guilty as part of a deal that meant he would avoid the death penalty. Kohberger sneaked into the rented home in Moscow, Idaho, which is not far from the university campus, through a kitchen sliding door and murdered Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. He has never revealed his motive and it is not clear why he spared two roommates who were in the home. Post-mortem examinations showed the four who died were stabbed multiple times and were likely asleep when they were attacked - with some sustaining defensive wounds. Kohberger was arrested at his parents' home in Pennsylvania around six weeks after the killings following a nationwide search. Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four life sentences without parole for four counts of first-degree murder at Idaho's Fourth District Court in Boise, the state capital, today. He was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary. Kohberger declined the opportunity to give a statement to the court where he could have finally revealed why he carried out the murders. A 'delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser' Family members of the victims gave statements in court today ahead of the sentencing - with the murderer's mother Maryann Kohberger also in attendance for the hearing. Ms Kohberger quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. Ms Goncalves' mother Kristi Goncalves said she was disappointed that Kohberger won't be executed by firing squad but revelled in how he would suffer in prison. "You will always be remembered as a loser, an absolute failure," she said. "Hell will be waiting," she added. Alivea Goncalves, the victim's sister, drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him. "You didn't win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are," she said. "You're a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser." Steve Goncalves, the victim's father, spoke to Kohberger directly and said: "Today we are here to finish what you started." Kohberger nodded subtly in response. Mr Goncalves added: "You tried to break our community apart, you tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us. You failed." In a statement read on her behalf by her lawyer, Ms Mogen's mother Karen Laramie said: "Any one of us would have given our own life to have been outshone by hers." Ms Laramie declined to address Kohberger directly, as he remained expressionless, but closed her statement by saying the family might never forgive him or "ask for mercy" for what he did. "His acts are too heinous," her statement read. 'Too terrified to close my eyes' Bethany Funke, who survived the attack, said about her roommates in a statement to the court: "I hated and still hate that they are gone, but for some reason, I am still here and I got to live. I still think about this every day. Why me? Why did I get to live, and not them?" She described one of the victims, Ms Kernodle, as "one in a million. She was the life of the party". Much of her statement was devoted to remembering her four close friends who died - recounting the nights they spent binge-watching reality television, making dinner together, going to parties at their university and the love that they had for each other. Her testimony reduced many at the hearing to tears. Dylan Mortensen, the second surviving roommate, said in court that she has panic attacks that force her to relive the trauma of what she experienced. She said: "I was too terrified to close my eyes, terrified that if I blinked, someone might be there. I made escape plans everywhere I went... He may have shattered parts of me but I'm still putting myself back together piece by piece." Ms Mortensen described Kohberger as being a "hollow vessel, something less than human... A body without empathy, without remorse". Kohberger's head bobbed slightly as she spoke. Trump administration condemns 'vicious and evil killer' White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the sentencing of Kohberger at a news briefing this evening. Ms Leavitt started the briefing with condolences to the families of the victims and called Kohberger a "vicious and evil killer". "If it were up to the president, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls," Ms Leavitt said. How police caught Kohberger The small farming community of Moscow, in the northern Idaho panhandle, had not had a homicide in about five years when the murders took place. The killings grabbed headlines around the world as police searched for Kohberger across the US. Police arrested him after investigators said they matched his DNA to genetic material recovered from a knife sheath found at the crime scene. They were also able to access mobile phone data to pinpoint his movements on the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed that Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier - as well as a sheath like the one found at the scene. Police attended a second night of anti-migrant protest and counter-demonstration outside an east London hotel after it emerged that asylum seekers are set to be housed there. Officers guarded the four-star Britannia International Hotel on Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf as the two rivals shouted at each other from across the street. Stand Up To Racism annouced a defend refugees emergency mobilisation event on X, formerly Twitter, starting at 6pm on Wednesday. It said: Please come ASAP to counter and say far right are NOT welcome in London! Seperately, Essex Police issued a dispersal order in Epping following a series of demonstrations outside a hotel believed to be housing asylum seekers 2pm on Thursday until 8am on Friday. The force has the power to direct anyone suspected of committing anti-social behaviour, or planning to do so, to leave the area or face arrest. On Tuesday, video footage appeared to show 20 to 30 officers outside the Britannia hotels entrance while protesters gathered. Other clips on social media had activists chanting as the Metropolitan Police protected a small group of counter-demonstrators. Counter protesters outside the hotel (Getty Images) Hotel guests with reservations were seen arriving, while others reportedly attempted to secure refunds. There are also allegations that staff who had previously worked at the hotel were dismissed on the same day. The Met said: Officers were in attendance at a protest outside a hotel in Canary Wharf. No arrests were made. Officers remain in the area to deal with any incidents. Protester shouts at rival group in Canary Wharf (James Manning/PA Wire) Footage on social media from Tuesday evening showed eggs had being thrown. A police helicopter was seen in the skies above. Britannia Hotels have been contacted by the Standard for comment. Following news that the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf is now housing illegal immigrants, a group of protesters has gathered outside. There's a significant police presence here, but that's hardly surprising given what happened in Epping last Thursday night. pic.twitter.com/X5ZFzlKlC1 Matt Capon (@MattLCapon) July 22, 2025 Tower Hamlets Council said: We are aware of the Governments decision to use the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. It is important that the Government ensures that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place. People were pictured moving beds into the hotel on Wednesday. The Britannia Hotel in Londons Canary Wharf prepares for Migrants to arrive with new beds being unloaded into the hotel (Jeremy Selwyn) Poplar and Limehouse MP Aspana Begum said: In Poplar and Limehouse, we are clear: refugees are welcome here. In the face of relentless demonisation and targeting, we continue to stand with migrants for their rights to safety and dignity. Its the far-right and their hateful ideology that are not welcome here. It is claimed some migrants had been bussed to the capital from the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, which has seen violent disorder over the past week, but is is understood it is not yet being used as an asylum hotel. Trouble started after asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was charged with sexual assaulting a 14-year-old girl by attempting to kiss her. He denied the charge when he appeared in court last week. Journalist Matt Capon wrote on X: A group of protesters has gathered outside. Theres a significant police presence here, but thats hardly surprising given what happened in Epping last Thursday night. Reform UK chief whip Lee Anderson added in a video caption from the scene: Canary Wharf. The International Hotel is now in lockdown as they prepare for an influx of illegal migrants. 500 rooms here. What are we playing at? Furious customers have left reviews on TripAdvisor, saying they were blindsided by the hotels sudden decision and had already paid for excursions in the capital. One person wrote: On June 9, I booked and fully paid for two rooms in this hotel for two nights in August. Today (six weeks later) I received an email cancelling my booking because the hotel has taken a large group booking. How can anyone trust a hotel that does this to its customers? I have booked meals out and a theatre trip as part of our stay London and am now having to scramble around trying to find something suitable at short notice, which will undoubtedly now be more expensive as a result. What a pitiful company. Another person said: Absolutely appalling experience with Britannia International Hotel. My confirmed reservation was cancelled less than 24 hours before my stay via a brief phone call, citing a private hire event. (Getty Images) I received no official email confirmation of the cancellation, and absolutely no support or alternative accommodation offered despite this being entirely at the hotels discretion. This is a blatant breach of their own cancellation policy and shows complete disregard for guests, especially those travelling from outside London. Their handling was not only unprofessional and disorganised, but also deeply inconsiderate. Essex Police said protests at the Bell earlier this month began peacefully but escalated to the point of disorder and criminal damage. Jonathan Glover, 47, of Springfields, Waltham Abbey, Stuart Williams, 36, of Duck Lane, Thornwood, Epping, Keith Silk, 33, of Torrington Drive, Loughton, and Dean Smith, 51, of Madells, Epping, have been charged with violent disorder and are due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on August 18. Williams and Smith have been remanded in custody, while Glover and Silk are on conditional bail, the force said. A fifth man, Joe McKenna, 34, of Highcliffe Road, Wickford, is charged with failing to remove a face covering when told to do so and remains on bail until a hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on September 24. On Wednesday, Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: We have identified a small group of people who are intent on committing anti-social behaviour, which is not acceptable. Where there has been previous protest activity, we have seen sustained anti-social behaviour in addition to any disorder that we have dealt with during the protest itself. This order will not prevent lawful and peaceful protest, but ensure people are safe both during and after the planned activity. We are also considering the use of other powers available to us to ensure people can carry out their democratic right to protest safely. Our message is clear - if youre planning to come to Essex to commit crime or disorder, dont bother. You will be dealt with. The officer said on Monday that the cost of policing the incidents in Epping over the last week had reached 100,000. Jeremy Corbyn confirmed his new party, alongside his co-founder Zarah Sultana, during a Zoom call with Dave Nellist this week Jeremy Corbyns hard-Left party is aiming to win a quarter of the popular vote, its co-founder has declared. Zarah Sultana, who is setting up the movement with Mr Corbyn, the former Labour leader, claimed Labour was dead and there was a need for an alternative to replace it. It comes as Mr Corbyn confirmed the new party will be in place well before the local elections next May, which are already being seen as a key test for Sir Keir Starmer. This week, both Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana spoke on a Zoom call hosted by Dave Nellist, who was expelled from Labour during Lord Kinnocks purge of militant MPs in the 1990s. Credit: David Nellist/Facebook Referring to recent polling by More in Common, suggesting 10 per cent of voters would back a party led by Mr Corbyn, Ms Sultana said: Ten to 15 per cent in the polls has to be a floor, not a ceiling. We have to be ambitious and aim for 20 to 25 per cent and beyond. All of us will agree on one thing at least that the Labour Party is dead and its time for a mass movement that will take on the billionaire class and the parties that represent them. The formation of the new party raises the prospect of the Left splitting in a similar way to that in which Reform UK has peeled away support from the Conservatives on the Right. Mr Corbyn told activists: Im hoping we can get through this process very, very quickly so we can do an establishment and a launch very, very quickly. So, well in advance of next years local elections, we will have in place an organisation that supports local campaigns, supports independents in their campaigns and comes together under if you like a common badge, common emblem, common symbol, common umbrella. Credit: David Nellist/Facebook Labour and the Conservatives suffered heavy losses to Reform in Mays local elections, and Labour figures fear next years polls will be worse. The party will be defending 14 out of 16 of the borough councils that will be up for election in the autumn, and is also in charge of 21 out of 32 boroughs up for election in London. Further losses to Reform are also expected at the Welsh elections on the same day, while the SNP hopes to capitalise on Labours poor national polling in the Scottish elections. Mr Corbyn, who led Labour to general election defeats in 2017 and 2019, said his manifestos as Labour leader had been very good but not quite perfect. He argued that the politics of the new party must be about peace, it must be about redistribution, it must be about workers rights, it must be about environmental sustainability, it must be about public ownership and investment in housing. The former Labour leader also vowed to fight back against Reform and accused its MPs of harbouring views that are usually obnoxious and usually quite obscene. Concluding his speech to prospective supporters of his new initiative, Mr Corbyn said: Theres nearly 1,000 people on this call 1,000 people with 1,000 ideas and theyll all be good ones, theyll all be inclusive, theyll all be determined. And theyll, above all, bring about a change in our society. So lets not be depressed, even though theres plenty to be depressed about. Stand with the oppressed, not the oppressor, around the world. Stand with the people of Palestine, not with those that oppress them, and stand with the people in our country that need our support and that is what our new endeavour, our new party, will achieve and I look forward to achieving that with all of you. Police outside the Britannia hotel in Canary Wharf on Tuesday - Ben Montgomery Canary Wharf was once a symbol of Londons capacity for reinvention as high finance thrived under Margaret Thatcher but Londons banking district is now at risk of epitomising the citys decline. Campaigners claimed the area had become a dumping ground for illegal migrants after it emerged that the Home Office planned to place asylum seekers at the Britannia International Hotel. It comes after an exodus of wealthy people in the wake of Labours tax raids, and a slump in demand for high-end offices as working from home took hold post-lockdown. Opponents accused Sir Keir Starmer and Sir Sadiq Khan, Londons Mayor, of presiding over a crisis for the capital. Susan Hall, the Conservative Assembly member and former London mayoral candidate, said: The fact migrants are now being housed in one of the wealthiest and most important parts of London is a sad sign of the citys decline under Sadiq Khan and Labour. Tax raids have driven out investors and business people. Canary Wharf should be the financial heart of London, not a dumping ground for Labours immigration failures. Anti-migrant protesters gathered outside the Britannia International Hotel on Tuesday - George Cracknell Wright The Britannia hotel, which says it has superb views over the London skyline and a prime location, is within walking distance of the JP Morgan headquarters and One Canada Square. It opened in 1992, becoming one of the first hotels in the area in its transformation from post-war industrial wasteland into a business hub. On Tuesday, protestors gathered outside after incorrect reports claiming asylum seekers were being transferred from Epping to Canary Wharf. The Home Office later clarified that this was not the case. According to Tower Hamlets council, the Home Office intends to repurpose the London hotel as temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. On Wednesday morning, workers were pictured wheeling beds and mattresses into the hotel. Mattresses were taken into the Britannia hotel in Canary Wharf as it prepared for migrant arrivals - Jeremy Selwyn/Jeremy Selwyn Canary Wharf has struggled in recent years, with nearly 200m wiped off the value of its office buildings amid the impact of working from home. In April, office vacancies in the area reached a record high, according to CoStar, a property data firm. Meanwhile, London is losing millionaire residents at the same rate as Moscow, with 30,000 having gone in the last decade, according to analysis by New World Wealth for advisers Henley & Partners. Tuesdays protest outside the hotel came amid a series of demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex. They were triggered by Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker from Ethiopia, being charged with the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl. Mr Kebatu denied the charge when he appeared at Chelmsford magistrates court on Thursday. Ms Hall said that while the rumours about asylum seekers in Epping being moved to the Canary Wharf hotel were incorrect, anger at the handling of immigration went beyond the protests in Essex. She added: The residents protest in Epping is not a local phenomenon. It is not surprising people were angry when a different group of asylum seekers were moved into the hotel to Canary Wharf, and it will not make the issue go away. We are seeing Labour taking Londoners for a ride and making decisions without consulting local communities, riding roughshod over authorities. This cannot continue and if Sadiq Khan had a spine, hed ring No 10 and tell them that. Protesters in Canary Wharf held up a flag with slogans including Deport All Illegals and Bring Back Hanging - James Manning/PA Alex Wilson, the Reform UK London Assembly member, said that housing migrants in the hotel would only worsen the problems facing Canary Wharf. While it is the Home Office that decides where to house migrants, not the London Mayor, Mr Wilson said it was a further example of Londons decline amid surging crime rates. Mr Wilson said: The rooms at the Britannia Hotel cost hundreds of pounds a night. The idea that this hotel will be filled with illegal immigrants at a time when we have 1.3 million people on the housing waiting list is outrageous. These hotels, across the country, are costing millions a day. Reform UK will deport those with no right to be here, stop the boats and close the hotels. Canary Wharf is at the heart of business and economic activity in London. Potentially having hundreds of unvetted men roaming around does nothing but further exacerbate the economic mess Labour have created here in London and across the country. On Wednesday, anti-migrant protesters faced Left-wing counter-demonstrators outside the hotel. The anti-migrant protesters held signs that said stop calling us far-Right and keep our children safe. Counter-protesters gathered with signs that said Refugees welcome - James Manning/PA Opposite them, two dozen Stand Up to Racism activists stood on the pavement surrounded by police. They held placards saying Refugees welcome, stop the far Right and copies of the Socialist Worker newspaper, published by the Socialist Workers Party. A French protester told The Telegraph he was angered by the welcome given to illegal immigrants in Britain. Jules Durand, a finance worker living in Canary Wharf, said. I think its crazy. I may move. Everyone in my building doesnt like it but they wont act and come down here because they dont want to be on camera. I dont oppose the hotel, but I just dont want them here. Im against immigration all the way. My area of France has been completely overwhelmed. The illegal immigrants are helped by the Government and the taxpayer has to pay for the inconvenience. It makes no sense. They are paying for this tyranny through taxes. Those counter-protesters are not from Canary Wharf like I am. One of the Stand Up To Racism protesters said the demonstration against the hotel was racism. John, 54, from east London, who declined to give his surname, said: Its all obnoxious, targeting the vulnerable. They need to do some other reading beyond the mainstream and far-Right social media, but no ones encouraging them to, least of all the mass media like The Telegraph. Racism takes work. We need education but there are so many forms of mis-education around. We have the bones of an education system that tells people not to discriminate. We need more of that. Another counter-protester, who declined to be named, said: They think the police bring us here to cause trouble. But thats absolute cobblers. Michael Rosen said: The backbone of language is our talk. Its the everyday way we make and change relationships. Photograph: Karen Robinson/The Observer The childrens writer Michael Rosen, one-time political strategist Alastair Campbell and former education secretaries Charles Clarke and Estelle Morris have urged the prime minister to honour his pre-election pledge to embed speaking skills in Englands schools. They are among 60 signatories to an open letter to Keir Starmer, calling on him to establish oracy as a core part of Labours revised national curriculum and make it the fourth R in education, alongside reading, writing and arithmetic. Supporters were delighted when Labour announced in 2023 that teaching oracy often defined as developing skill in using spoken language would be a central part of Labours educational priorities if it won the next election. However, campaigners say it was not mentioned in the interim report of the governments curriculum and assessment review earlier this year, leading to fears oracy may have slipped down the educational agenda. The full report is due later this year. The letter, organised by Voice 21, the UKs leading oracy education charity, said: Two years ago you pledged that under your Labour government, every child would be supported to develop essential oracy skills as part of the mission to ensure all young people are prepared for work and ready for life. We urge you to turn that promise into lasting change. In a world shaped by rapid advances in artificial intelligence, deepening social divides and persistent inequality, the skills of speaking, listening and communication have never been more urgently needed. Rosen, who is a professor of childrens literature at Goldsmiths, University of London, said: The backbone of language is our talk. Its the everyday way we make and change relationships, share the events of our lives, hear about other peoples lives. Its where we forge our identities and culture, its where and how we get a good deal of our understanding of what matters. We can learn and develop how to be better talkers and listeners. School is a perfect time for us to do that. This needs time and space and sensitive help from teachers. I hope this government backs an oracy programme in education. Campbell, now a mental health campaigner and author, added: Its time every child had the chance to develop their oracy skills its key not just to confidence and deeper thinking but also for countering the rise in polarisation. Labour should make sure its curriculum review has a proper commitment to oracy. Other signatories to the letter include author and educator Jeffrey Boakye, Nick Harrison, chief executive of the Sutton Trust, which champions social mobility, and Rupert Knight, associate professor in education at the University of Nottingham. Kate Paradine, Voice 21s chief executive, said: Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged the importance of oracy and the need to embed it in the national curriculum. We are now urging the government to deliver on its manifesto commitment so that every child can benefit from a high-quality oracy education. A Department for Education spokesperson said the governments plan for change would ensure every young person, irrespective of background, develops the skills needed to succeed in work and life, including in speaking and listening. Were already investing in evidence-based language interventions in the early years, including Nuffield Early Language Intervention, to support childrens speech and language development and have strengthened our teacher training framework to place greater emphasis on high quality oral language. We will also consider how best to ensure pupils can communicate fluently and confidently as part of a cutting-edge curriculum, with final recommendations from the independent review due to be published in the autumn. The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know. If you have something to share on this subject you can contact us confidentially using the following methods. Secure Messaging in the Guardian app The Guardian app has a tool to send tips about stories. Messages are end to end encrypted and concealed within the routine activity that every Guardian mobile app performs. This prevents an observer from knowing that you are communicating with us at all, let alone what is being said. If you don't already have the Guardian app, download it (iOS/Android) and go to the menu. Select Secure Messaging. SecureDrop, instant messengers, email, telephone and post See our guide at theguardian.com/tips for alternative methods and the pros and cons of each. Hamit Coskun said he was protesting the Islamist government of Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his native Turkey - Aaron Chown/PA A judge who argued in favour of free speech will rule on the appeal of a man convicted of burning the Koran. Hamit Coskun was found guilty of a racially aggravated public order offence during a protest outside the Turkish consulate on Feb 13. The 51-year-old held the religious text above his head in flames, and shouted: Islam is a religion of terrorism. Coskun is due to appeal against his conviction on Oct 8 and it has now emerged that the case will be dealt with by Mr Justice Joel Bennathan, the High Court judge, at Southwark Crown Court. Only a handful of cases sent for appeal from the magistrates court have been overseen by a High Court judge. In one of those, Sir Joel himself overturned the conviction of Bob Stewart, the former MP found guilty of a racially aggravated public order offence. Credit: Crown Prosecution Service Mr Stewart, 76, was convicted after telling an activist to go back to Bahrain during an argument outside the Foreign Office in December 2022. Sir Joel found that while Mr Stewarts comments towards Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei had amounted to abuse, they did not cause alarm or distress. He ruled: The fact that even after Mr Stewarts abusive comments, Mr Alwadaei continued to address him in similar terms and at a similar pitch would scarcely suggest to an observer that he was caused any upset, alarm or distress. He acknowledged that Mr Alwadaei felt that the comments were racist, but said: The feelings of the person against which the abusive comments are directed are not determinative but not irrelevant. Sir Joel has previously championed free speech. In 2019, before he became a judge, he wrote an article after pro-Brexit protesters shouted Nazi at Anna Soubry, another former MP. Hamit Coskun was violently attacked as he made his protest near the Turkish embassy in London - X James Goddard, 30, from Altrincham, ultimately admitted using threatening or abusive language, as well as using racist language to abuse a police officer. He was sentenced to eight weeks in jail, suspended for a year, and was banned from contacting Ms Soubry. Before Goddard was convicted, Sir Joel wrote in a blog post: Perhaps many years in my legal youth defending strikers, protestors and hunt saboteurs has biased me in favour of the rights of those who shout, swear and cause upset for what, in their own opinion, is a good cause. Yet I find it hard to think that abusing an MP, used to argument, noise and robust language, as she was escorted by numerous police officers, is quite bad enough to cross the line and become a crime. The other side of that same line should, in any decent society, carry its own sanctions; those who shout, upset and bully others can be condemned, denounced, possibly sacked by their employers or disciplined by any professional body to which they belong; but liberties whose roots predate the European Convention [on Human Rights] by hundreds of years should make us all wary of calling noisy, upsetting, even odious behaviour a crime. Peaceful political protest must remain protected Jill Levene, the deputy legal counsel at the Free Speech Union, said: This appeal is not just about Hamit Coskuns conviction it is about defending freedom of expression for everyone. We hope this challenge will reaffirm that peaceful political protest, no matter how provocative, must remain protected in a free society and that no religion should command special legal immunity from criticism or dissent. Stephen Evans, the chief executive of the National Secular Society, said: This conviction represents a troubling repurposing of public order laws into a modern-day blasphemy law. While we recognise that burning religious texts can be deeply offensive, we maintain that Mr Coskuns protest was a lawful expression of free speech and dissent that must be protected, regardless of how uncomfortable that may be for some. We are therefore backing this appeal to defend these fundamental rights. The Judiciary has been contacted for comment. Barack Obama in Chicago on 5 December 2024. Photograph: Erin Hooley/AP Barack Obama has broken his silence on calls from Donald Trump for him to be prosecuted by unequivocally rejecting his successors accusations that he tried to engineer a coup following Trumps 2016 election victory by manufacturing evidence of Russian interference. Obamas office took the unusual step of issuing an emphatic refutation after Trump told reporters that his predecessor had [tried] to lead a coup against him and was guilty of treason over intelligence assessments suggesting that Russia had intervened to help Trump defeat Hillary Clinton in the campaign. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, the statement said. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. The statement went on to criticize claims made in an 11-page document released last week by Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, who said she was passing evidence of what she claimed was a treasonous conspiracy among Obama national security officials to the justice department, recommending their prosecution. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, it said. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Obamas response followed a fusillade of accusations by Trump in the White House as he was meeting the president of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son of the countrys former autocratic president, who was ousted in a popular peoples power revolution in 1986. Asked by a reporter who should be the main target of the criminal investigation recommended in Gabbards report, Trump said: Based on what I read, and I read pretty much what you read, it would be President Obama. He started it, and Biden was there with him. And [James] Comey [the former FBI director] was there, and [James] Clapper [the former director of national intelligence], the whole group was there. It was them, too, but the leader of the gang was President Obama, Barack Hussein Obama. Have you heard of him? He went on: This isnt like evidence. This is like proof, irrefutable proof that Obama was sedatious [sic], that Obama was trying to lead a coup, and it was with Hillary Clinton, with all these other people, but Obama headed it up. Hes guilty. This was treason. This was every word you can think of. They tried to steal the election. They tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobodys ever even imagined. Trump said Gabbard had told him she had thousands of additional documents coming. Its the most unbelievable thing I think Ive ever read. So you want to take a look at that and stop talking about nonsense, he said, in what appeared to be a coded appeal for supporters to drop their demands for the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who was found dead in his prison cell in 2019 as he awaited trial on sex-trafficking charges. But the Gabbard report, which accused the Obama administration of forcing spy agencies to alter their conclusions, conflated and misrepresented different issues to discredit the intelligence communitys assessment in 2017 that Russia sought to simultaneously help Trump and damage Clinton. The assessment concluded that Russia did not engage in cyber-attacks against election infrastructure to change vote tallies, but found Moscow hacked and leaked documents from the Democratic National Committee to damage the Clinton campaign. The Gabbard report used that first conclusion to suggest that a broader Russian influence operation did not occur, and cited Obamas presidential daily brief in December 2016 that concluded there were no Russian hacks of election systems being pushed back as evidence of political interference in the assessment. Related: Congress to subpoena Maxwell amid political firestorm over Epstein files Assertions of Russian interference were subsequently borne out in the report published by the special counsel Robert Mueller, in 2019, and the bipartisan Senate intelligence committee report published the following year, led by Rubio, now secretary of state in Trumps administration. A former CIA analyst and national intelligence officer, Fulton Armstrong, told the Guardian in an email that Gabbards paper was obviously written with a pre-ordained conclusion. Even a quick read shows how the confusion between confidence and probability [over intelligence assessments] even if not deliberate leads to sloppiness and manipulation, Armstrong said. The bigger problem is that Tulsis paper is such shit. Her reference to deep state officials is amateurish, silly, and undercuts the whole damned document. Shes clever to use crappy precedents and confusion to make her case, but an issue like Russian manipulation of US elections, with so many analysts from diverse organizational cultures, is almost certainly going to leave enough offal on the floor that anyone who wanted to make a one-sided political slam job can find enough to fill an 11-page paper. Barack Obamas camp have called the accusations false and politically motivated - JIM WATSON/Getty Barack Obama has dismissed the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of the White House after Donald Trump accused him of treason. The US president said Mr Obama [tried] to lead a coup after his first presidential win and that he was guilty of treason for manufacturing evidence suggesting that Russia had meddled to help Mr Trump defeat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race. In a rare retort, an Obama spokesman denounced Mr Trumps attack as ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Mr Trump was referring to a report from Tulsi Gabbard, the US intelligence chief, released last week that she said contained evidence of what she called a treasonous conspiracy in 2016 committed by officials at the highest level of our government. The Democrats have described the alleged findings as false and politically motivated. Mr Trump also reposted an AI-generated video showing Mr Obama being arrested in the Oval Office on his Truth Social account on Sunday. Credit: Truth socials/@realDonaldTrump It comes as the US president squirms to redirect renewed scrutiny over his relationship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. In what is fast becoming the biggest crisis of his second term, the Trump administration has faced mounting pressure to unseal grand jury testimony related to the disgraced financier, who was found dead in his Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial in 2019. The witch hunt that you should be talking about is they caught president Obama absolutely cold, Mr Trump told reporters, offering no proof of his claims. Its time to go after people, Obamas been caught directly. Hes guilty. This was treason, he added. They tried to steal the election, they tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobodys ever imagined, even in other countries, Mr Trump said. Trump defeated Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race - Paul Sancya/AP Patrick Rodenbush, the Obama spokesman, said: Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, he added. Ms Gabbards report declassified emails between Obama aides, and argued they had suppressed intelligence findings that Russia had failed in probing attempts to hack US election databases. The intelligence chief said the emails were evidence of a treasonous conspiracy to sabotage Mr Trump, and she threatened to refer Obama administration officials to the justice department for prosecution. A 2017 assessment by the US intelligence community found that Russia, using social media disinformation, hacking and Russian bot farms, sought to derail Democrat Hillary Clintons campaign. The assessment determined that the actual impact was likely limited and showed no evidence that Moscows efforts actually changed voting outcomes. Donald Trump announced that the US had reached a deal to levy a 19 per cent import tariff on the Philippines following what he described as a "beautiful visit" by president Ferdinand Marcos Jr to the White House. The tariff rate is just shy of the 20 per cent Mr Trump had threatened to impose on Americas key Southeast Asian ally earlier this month but higher than the 17 per cent set when he first declared sweeping tariffs for dozens of countries in April. Mr Marcos Jr called the trade deal with the US a "significant achievement" but noted that some details were still to be worked out. The announcement of a loose framework of a deal comes as the two allies seek closer security and economic ties in the face of shifting geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific region. It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby the Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19 per cent Tariff," Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He called Mr Marcos Jr a "very good and tough negotiator. Donald Trump displays a chart showing his 'Liberation Day' tariffs on 2 April (Getty) Mr Marcos Jr, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet Mr Trump in his second term, told reporters at the start of his White House meeting that the US was his nations strongest, closest, most reliable ally. The Philippines is faced with China's assertive presence in the South China Sea where Manila and Beijing have clashed over the hotly contested Scarborough Shoal. Mr Trump said the "very big numbers" in the trade agreement would only grow larger. The US had a deficit of nearly $5bn (3.7bn) with the Philippines last year on bilateral goods trade of $23.5bn (17.3bn). The US president has upended global trade flows by levying tariffs on nearly every trading partner, with almost all nations slapped with a 10 per cent tariff in April and many facing steep additional levies from 1 August. Philippine officials had said Mr Marcos Jr intended to stress to Washington that Manila must become economically stronger if it was to serve as a truly robust US partner in the Indo-Pacific. Gregory Poling, a Southeast Asia expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, told Reuters it was too early to say much about the Philippines trade deal since no details had been released, as was the case with similar pacts with Indonesia and Vietnam. "At the end of the day, I don't think the Philippine government is sweating the final number so long as it keeps Philippine-made goods competitive with those of its neighbors, which this does," Mr Poling said. Mr Trump previously announced a 19 per cent tariff for Indonesia and 20 per cent for Vietnam. Metropolitan Police officers attended the scene of a protest outside a hotel in east London where asylum seekers will be homed. The protest took place on Tuesday outside the four-star Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf, which the government intends to use as temporary accommodation for asylum seekers, according to Tower Hamlets Council. A police statement from last night said: "Officers are currently in attendance at a protest outside a hotel in Canary Wharf. "We have a policing plan in place and will continue to monitor events." A spokesperson for Tower Hamlets Council said: "We are aware of the government's decision to use the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. "It is important that the government ensures that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. "We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place." Local independent MP Apsana Begum said on X: "In Poplar and Limehouse, we are clear: refugees are welcome here. "In the face of relentless demonisation and targeting, we continue to stand with migrants for their rights to safety and dignity. "It's the far-right and their hateful ideology that are not welcome here." Reform UK chief whip Lee Anderson said he was "absolutely furious" in a video taken near the hotel. In a post on X, he said: "Canary Wharf. The International Hotel is now in lockdown as they prepare for an influx of illegal migrants. "500 rooms here. What are we playing at?" There have been a series of demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, since asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was charged with sexual assault after an incident earlier this month in which he is alleged to have attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu denied the charge when he appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Thursday. Four men have been charged with violent disorder after the protests outside the hotel in Essex, which is believed to be housing asylum seekers, police say. Police officers form a line in the town centre of Epping - JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP The first of Robert Peels nine principles of policing, set out as long ago as 1829, is to prevent crime and disorder as an alternative to their repression by military force and severity of legal punishment. The then Home Secretary was responding to the great fear of the authorities in the aftermath of the French Revolution: the mob. Once disorder gets a hold, dealing with it becomes increasingly difficult, requiring recourse to the Army, as happened in Northern Ireland in 1969. The simmering resentment felt in parts of the country about the way illegal migrants have been imposed on communities with no consultation whatsoever is not yet at that level. But as Nigel Farage said this week, we may be on the edge of serious civil disobedience, yet no longer possess the means to contain it. We depend on the police to keep matters under control, though in truth much of the fault lies with the Government. Labour promised that hotels would no longer be employed to house illegal immigrants and yet they are now being used more than ever. In Epping, a hotel has become a target for local protests by people no longer prepared to accept scores of young men being foisted on them. The residents are exercising their rights to object to a set of circumstances over which they have no control and about which they were never consulted. When they hear themselves described as racist thugs they are entitled to feel aggrieved. Essex Police, which has been criticised for the way it has handled days of protests, claims to have been even-handed. But by escorting pro-migrant demonstrators to the hotel, essentially to confront local people, the forces impartiality is open to question. Moreover, it has unwittingly encouraged extremists from the Left and Right to descend on Epping to cause the very trouble the police are meant to prevent. The force must be seen to act in an even-handed way while ensuring the two sides do not end up fighting one another in the streets. No one pretends this is easy but it will require the sort of adept policing that has not been the forte of Essex constabulary, to put it charitably. In the end, the fault lies with the abject failure of the Home Office to find realistic alternatives to hotels for migrants who have crossed the Channel. It is time the ex-military camps, that were once going to be used to incarcerate and process the arrivals, were reopened. Many large organisations use SharePoint as a platform for storing documents and allowing colleagues to collaborate on them. Photograph: Thomas Fuller/Sopa/Shutterstock Microsoft says Chinese threat actors, including state-sponsored hackers, have exploited security vulnerabilities in its SharePoint document-sharing servers, with research indicating that several hundred government agencies and organisations have been breached. Hackers have already breached 400 agencies, businesses and other groups, the Dutch cybersecurity company Eye Security said, adding: We expect it may continue to rise as investigations progress. The majority of the victims are in the US, it found, while Bloomberg reported that the US agency charged with overseeing nuclear weapons, the National Nuclear Security Administration, was among the victims. Microsoft said it had observed three groups the Chinese state-backed Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon, and Storm-2603, which is believed to be China-based using newly disclosed security vulnerabilities to target internet-facing servers hosting the platform. Its announcement came amid reports in the Financial Times that Amazon was shutting down its artificial intelligence lab in Shanghai, while the consultancy McKinsey has stopped its China business from taking on work related to AI amid worsening geopolitical tensions between Washington and Beijing. Microsoft and IBM have recently scaled back China-based research and development projects, as US officials are stepping up their scrutiny of US companies working in AI in China. Microsoft said in a blogpost that the vulnerabilities were in on-premises SharePoint servers, which are commonly used by companies, rather than in its cloud-based service. Many large organisations and businesses use SharePoint as a platform for storing documents and allowing colleagues to collaborate on them, and it is regarded as working well alongside other Microsoft products, including Office and Outlook. Microsoft said the attacks had begun as early as 7 July and that the hackers were trying to exploit vulnerabilities to gain initial access to target organisations. The vulnerabilities allow attackers to spoof authentication credentials and execute malicious code remotely on servers. Microsoft said it had observed attacks where the attackers had sent a request to a SharePoint server enabling the theft of the key material. Microsoft said it had released security updates and advised all users of on-premises SharePoint systems to install them. It warned that it assessed with high confidence that the hacking groups would continue to attack unpatched on-premises SharePoint systems. Eye Security said in a press release that it had detected unusual activity on a customers on-premises SharePoint server on the evening of 18 July. It added that it had subsequently scanned more than 8,000 publicly accessible SharePoint servers around the world and had identified dozens of compromised systems, confirming that attackers are conducting a coordinated mass exploitation campaign. Microsoft said Linen Typhoon had been focused on stealing intellectual property, primarily targeting organisations related to government, defence, strategic planning, and human rights since 2012. It added that since 2015 Violet Typhoon had been dedicated to espionage, primarily targeting former government and military personnel, non-governmental organisations, thinktanks, higher education, digital and print media, financial and health related sectors in the United States, Europe, and east Asia. Microsoft said it had medium confidence that the third group, Storm-2603, was based in China, but said it had not established links between the group and other Chinese threat actors. It warned that additional actors might also target on-premises SharePoint systems to exploit their vulnerabilities if its security updates were not installed. The shark attack took place off the Canary Islands (stock image) (AFP/Getty) A surfer was badly injured after he was attacked by a shark off the Canary Islands. The man was using a hydrofoil board about two miles west of Fuerteventura on Sunday when the incident occurred in open waters. The Los Molinos area is known for occasional shark sightings. After attacking his board, the shark sunk his teeth into the surfers leg, leaving behind two bloody wounds above the knee, local media reported. He managed to scramble back to the shore for safety and was later treated by emergency services. Spanish TV channel Antena 3 described the wounds as deep. While several shark species, including hammerheads and angel sharks, are known to swim in the area, they do not typically attack humans. Beachgoers have been warned to proceed with caution (stock image) (AP) Authorities have warned beachgoers to proceed with caution when venturing far from the shore, local media said. The shark attack is the latest in a series of similar incidents as holidaymakers head to the seaside. Earlier this week, a savage fish attacked an 85-year-old Italian woman while swimming in Majorcas Palma beach. And in April, a man died after a shark attack off the Mediterranean coast of Israel. The remains, discovered after a two-day search, were identified as those of the victim, whom Israeli media named as Barak Tzach, a man in his 40s and a father of four. Environmental changes and increasing water temperatures are believed to push some marine species closer to the shore. In a close encounter with a shark, beachgoers are advised to maintain eye contact and slowly move away, according to Florida Museums International Shark Attack File. If the shark tries to bite you: Hit the shark in the eyes and gills - sensitive areas that can be hurt regardless of personal strength; Hit the shark on the snout and push away - water-resistance weakens your punch, the file added. However, the number of shark bites recorded around the world last year is markedly down from 2023, according to the shark attack database. In 2024, there were only 47 unprovoked attacks, down by 22 from the previous year and well below the 10-year average of 67. A former police translator, Iraqi and Albanian gang bosses, a banker and a Chinese firm that supplies small boats are among the first to be sanctioned in a government bid to crackdown on migrant smuggling. On Wednesday, the Foreign Office named 25 targets of its wave of sanctions aimed at key figures who assist illegal migration across the English Channel. They include individuals, gangs and a small boat supplier in Asia as well as leaders the Government has identified as people smugglers based in the Balkans and North Africa. They also hit middlemen putting cash through the Hawala legal money transfer system in the Middle East, which is used in payments linked to Channel crossings. Albanian Bledar Lala, leader of the Belgian operations of an organised smuggling group, and a company in China that advertised small boats for people smuggling on an online marketplace are among the sanctioned. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said it was a landmark moment in the Governments work to tackle organised immigration crime (and) reduce irregular migration to the UK. From Europe to Asia we are taking the fight to the people-smugglers who enable irregular migration, targeting them wherever they are in the world and making them pay for their actions, he said. My message to the gangs who callously risk vulnerable lives for profit is this: we know who you are, and we will work with our partners around the world to hold you to account. Foreign Secretary David Lammy (PA Wire) The measures aim to target organised crime gangs wherever they are in the world and disrupt their flow of cash. Penalties will include freezing bank accounts, property and other assets, to hinder their activities as well as banning those named from Britain. It will be illegal for UK businesses and banks to deal with anyone named on the list. The move follows legislation being introduced under the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill to ramp up enforcement powers for police forces and partners to investigate and prosecute people smugglers. The full list of those sanctioned: Goran Assad Jalal formed part of an organised crime group which stowed migrants in refrigerated lorries that crossed the English Channel from France to the UK on at least ten occasions between January and March 2019, the Foreign Office said. Hemin Ali Salih, helped smuggle migrants into the UK in the backs of lorries. Dedawan Dazey, a people smuggler who runs safe houses for migrants in Northern France. Roman Ranyaye, an Iraqi people smuggler responsible for bringing migrants from Asia to Europe. Azad Khoshnaw, for supplying inflatable boats, onboard motors and other maritime equipment. Nuzad Khoshnaw, for equipping gangs in Northern France with small boats. Nihad Mohsin Xoshnaw, for providing inflatable boats used by migrants to cross the Channel from France. Muhammed Khadir Pirot, a hawala banker who controls payments from migrants in the Kurdistan region of Iraq to Europe via Turkey. Mariwan Jamal, who controls money movements through a Hawala banker, which handles payments to people smugglers from migrants in Iraq. Rafiq Shaqlaway, involved in hawala banking as an advisor to migrants looking to pay smugglers operating routes into Europe via Turkey. The Kazawi Gang, a people smuggling network which controls routes from North Africa into the EU. They are known to deal out harsh punishments to migrants who are unable to pay, the Foreign Office said. The Tetwani Gang, which is known as one of the Balkans most violent gangs. Members are reported to hold migrants for ransom and sexually abuse women unable to pay their fees. Bledar Lala, who leads a ring moving people from Belgium across the Channel. Alen Basil, a former police translator who through violence and intimidation became boss of a large people-smuggling network, the Foreign Office said. Mohammed Tetwani, the head of the Tetwani gang and self-styled King of Horgos in Serbia. Yassine Al Maghribi Al-Kasaoui, the boss of the Kazawi gang. The Kavac Gang, a Balkan organised crime organisation known to use fake passports to smuggle its members between the Balkans and Turkey. Skaljari Gang, an organised crime ring in Montenegro that transports criminals between the Balkans and Turkey. Dalibor Curlik, who is said to procure fake passports and forged documents for use by the Kavac gang. Almir Jahovic, member of the Kavac gang, which is involved in supplying fake passports. Marko Petrovic, a member of the Kavac gang which sources false identification and passports for use in people-smuggling. Ratko Zivkovic, a Skaljari Gang associate. Nikola Vein helps the Skaljari Gang secure fake passports and travel documents for use in people-smuggling. Dejan Pavlovic, said to be member or close associate of the Skaljari Gang, which supports the supply of false identities. Weihai Yamar Outdoors Product Co, a company based in China manufactures inflatable boats advertised for people smuggling, the Foreign Office said. Muhammad Zakariya Ayyoub al-Matouq, an 18-month old child in Gaza who had a pre-existing medical condition now faces life-threatening malnutrition. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images Starvation is not only killing Palestinians in Gaza one by one, but also destroying Palestinian society and inflicting permanent damage on bodies and minds, experts say. As hopes for a ceasefire rise, the threat from extreme hunger is particularly acute because Israel has continued to deploy food controls as a weapon against civilians during previous pauses in conventional fighting, and could do so again. Starvation forces the body to consume its own muscle and organs for energy, which can cause permanent injury, harms childrens futures by stunting the growth of their bodies and minds, and may even damage the heath of survivors children. It also destroys communities by turning people against each other in their desperation for food and forcing them to do shameful, humiliating or violent things to survive. Even if they recover physically, the trauma of having to choose between children, turn away relatives begging for food, sell their own bodies or a sister or a daughter for food, stays with them for life, famine experts say. Related: The Guardian view on starvation in Gaza: it will take more than words to halt Israels genocide | Editorial You can approach starvation as a biological phenomenon experienced by individuals, but it is also a collective social experience, said Alex de Waal, executive director of the World Peace Foundation at Tufts University, and author of Mass Starvation: the History and Future of Famine. Very often that societal element the trauma, the shame, the loss of dignity, the violation of taboos, the breaking of social bonds is more significant in the memory of the experience of survivors than the individual biological experience. All these traumas are the reason why the Irish took almost 150 years before they could memorialise what they experienced in the 1840s. Those who inflict starvation are aware of this, they know that what theyre doing is actually dismantling a society. This sociology of starvation was outlined by Raphael Lemkin, the lawyer and Holocaust survivor who coined the word genocide then campaigned for it to be recognised as a crime in international law, de Waal said. In writings during the second world war, Lemkin spent a lot of time describing rations, rationing as a way of undermining groups. The social impact of starvation means an aggressor can use food controls to create a dynamic that de Waal describes as genocidal humanitarianism, where just enough calories are provided to prevent mass death, but extreme hunger destroys the meaning of their life as a group. International experts have warned repeatedly during the war that Gaza is approaching the internationally recognised threshold for famine, measured by factors including rates of death and malnutrition. Chris Newton, senior analyst at International Crisis Group and an expert in famine and starvation as a weapon of war, said that even if that line was never crossed, the effect of spending long periods in a state of extreme hunger could not be fully reversed. This is not about a formal famine declaration or a special number of trucks or meals. Its about Israels attempt to starve Gaza indefinitely without the rapid mass death from starvation and disease we call famine, he said. This experiment cannot last for ever, though the consequences of starvation can. One of the most visible signs of social breakdown in Gaza is the regular looting of aid trucks entering the territory, and the near daily shootings of people trying to get limited supplies from distribution centres operated by the secretive US and Israeli backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Starvation breaks social order, and transforms governance into just one issue, who can feed people? said Nour Abuzaid, senior researcher at Forensic Architecture, an agency that investigates human rights violations. If you can feed people, you can rule them. Because life has been reduced to a single question: What are we going to eat today? Forensic Architecture has documented the structural features that make GHF centres so deadly by design, including their location in areas where the Israeli military has ordered civilians to evacuate, and routes to reach them that take civilians close to Israeli military outposts. Israel can continue to restrict food and channel it through GHF sites even during a pause in fighting with conventional weapons. This is exactly what happened during the previous ceasefire, which was still in place when Israel cut aid on 2 March, Abuzaid said. If it does, the location and architecture of GHF sites mean killings can be expected to continue, she said, citing repeated shootings of civilians who approached a buffer zone established by Israeli forces. There were over 100 people who were killed during the ceasefire just because they were in proximity to the buffer zone, Abuzaid said. So if the model based on (GHF) ration stations placed in or near the buffer zone continues [to be used] we should expect civilian casualties to continue. Controls on food also mean Israel can actively destroy civil order even during a ceasefire, she added. De Waal said Israels control of land and sea borders meant it had full oversight of how much food entered the territory, and UN data providing detailed information about malnutrition among Palestinians meant its leaders could not say starvation there was an unforeseen outcome. You cant starve anyone by accident, you can shoot someone by accident but in inflicting starvation [you] have 60 or 80 days in which [you] can remedy the error, he said. Forensic Architecture has concluded that Israels restrictions on food entering Gaza are genocidal in two different ways, said its director, Eyal Weizman. Obviously, to intentionally starve people to death is genocidal, and starvation is also used in order to break society. Starvation is the means and starvation is the end. If this system remains in place during any upcoming ceasefire, with control over every calorie and anyone entitled to it, Israel will continue to break Palestinian society, Weizman said. The genocide might continue during a ceasefire. This caption to the picture accompanying this article was amended on 5 August 2025 to include reference to the child, who is severely malnourished, also having a pre-existing health condition. A former financial trader who was jailed for 11 years has said winning his decade-long legal battle to have his convictions quashed is an incredible feeling. On Wednesday the Supreme Court quashed the convictions of former Citigroup and UBS trader Tom Hayes. In 2015 he was found guilty of multiple counts of conspiracy to defraud over manipulating the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (Libor) between 2006 and 2010. Speaking after his convictions were overturned, Mr Hayes, who arrived at court wearing a Kenny Rogers The Gambler t-shirt, said he was not bitter about his experience. He told a press conference: I always believed that it would happen. I always had confidence it would happen. Mr Hayes added: This wasnt a gamble for me. My trial judge called me a gambler. So I decided today I would wear a T-shirt, a Kenny Rogers Gambler T-shirt. Mr Hayes added: Im really very grateful to the Supreme Court. Weve had a consistent set of decisions from every other tribunal, and they were all to lose, and I got asked at my last appeal how I felt after we lost, and I said: Well, ask me when weve won. Because I knew how it feels to lose, and today Im learning how it feels to have won, and its an incredible feeling. Carlo Palombo and Tom Hayes were backed by Sir David Davis (Jordan Pettitt/PA) He added that going to prison, losing all his money, and missing out on five years of his sons life has taught him not to value things. Mr Hayes also said he became a Christian in prison, where he used to have the angry test, because the people who were angry, were innocent, because they were so annoyed about and frustrated with the miscarriage of justice theyd gone through. He said: Im a better person today than when I went into prison. My faith really helps me overcome a lot of the anger to see myself through that sentence. I had a lot of stuff. Money enables you to buy more stuff and more stuff on top of that and your goal is to require more stuff again. Mr Hayes was convicted of interest rate benchmark manipulation in 2015 and 2019 respectively (Jordan Pettitt/PA) But when all your stuff is taken away from you, and then your liberty is taken away from you, and your dignity gets taken away from you, and your family gets taken away from you and your children get taken away from you, what are you left with, and do you miss the stuff? When I got to my open prison, being able to walk on the grass barefoot and see the stars in the sky was such an amazing thing. Going on a train, crossing the road, and then when I got released after five-and-a-half years into Covid, walking around Regents Park in the snow and hearing a lions roar, those were just amazing things for me, it was so powerful. Ive really learned what you should value in your life as a result of whats happened to me. Im not chasing stuff anymore. Mr Hayes said he did not know what he would do next, but that suddenly the vista of freedom and choice had opened up to him, and he would like to go and live near a large body of water. Concerns have been raised about patient safety during resident doctor strikes planned for Friday (PA) (PA Archive) Top medics have urged doctors to soften their stance and tell hospitals if they are striking amid fears they will risk patient safety. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AMoRC), which represents medical colleges across the country, has urged the British Medical Association (BMA) to suspend its guidance for doctors, which suggests they should not inform their employers whether they plan to strike or not. In a rare intervention on Wednesday, the AMoRC said this would make it extremely difficult for health service leaders and managers to maintain safe patient care. Resident doctors are set to strike on Friday at 7am for five consecutive days after talks with the government broke down and failed to avert the action. The BMA is calling for a 29 per cent pay rise, claiming doctors have seen a 20 per cent pay erosion in their salaries since 2008. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, described the strike action as completely unjustified. He added: It shows a complete disdain for patients and the wider recovery of the NHS. The BMA said the health secretarys offer did not go far enough on pay. Royal Colleges pleas come as The Independent understands that in at least one area of the country, Cheltenham, hospital chiefs have been considering reducing one full A&E service, following mandates that NHS trusts must not cancel routine care. This would likely result in similar measures to those taken during strikes in December 2023, when Cheltenham A&E changed to a minor injury unit during the day due to concerns over the ability to staff the full A&E. The trust is due to announce whether changes will go ahead on Thursday morning. Elsewhere, hospital leaders have said they will likely have to cancel some operations and appointments during the strikes, despite NHS Englands official mandate to continue with routine care. Ahead of the strikes, the BMA has published guidance for striking doctors who are asked by trusts if they intend to take industrial action, stating that they are not legally required to respond to such questions and that the BMA has advised them are not obliged to answer. Now the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges has said it recognises the right of resident doctors to take industrial action, including by striking. However, following the disappointing news that talks with the Government seem to have broken down, the Academy is today calling on the BMA to suspend its guidance to doctors, which states they should not inform their employers whether they plan to strike or not. We know that legally those striking need not inform their employers, but by withholding this vital information, health service leaders and hospital managers have said it will be extremely difficult to maintain safe patient care when they have no idea how many doctors will be absent during the five days of strike action, which begin on Friday. Other senior medics speaking with The Independent have said they do not support the planned strikes this week. One, who asked to remain anonymous, said: I think it's the wrong time. I think the sympathy's gone. So many people are frightened of speaking out, really frightened. They get abused. I think [resident doctors] are very angry. I think this is wrong for them to take it out like this they need to think again. I think about what's good for the country, because what's good for the country is good for the NHS, and what's good for the NHS is good for them. Ahead of the strikes, the BMA and NHS England have clashed over plans for routine care to go ahead. NHS England chief Jim Mackey told NHS trusts they must not cancel routine operations. However, the BMA has warned that this will put patients at risk as consultants will not be able to manage both emergency and routine care demands. Several hospital leaders told The Independent they will likely have to cancel some routine care, with emergency care being the priority in terms of safety. One trust executive said cancelling operations where patients would have to prep was the humane thing to do. They said: Even though we come under a lot of pressure [not to cancel] weve always taken the view that the humane thing to do... It's not responsible to put people through that kind of physical and emotional preparation. During the previous round of strikes in June 2024, around 64,000 operations and patient appointments were cancelled. BMA council chair Dr Tom Dolphin said: Its disappointing that the Academy is weighing in to areas way outside its remit, and doing this via the media than directly with us. The Academy is right though that doctors are under no legal obligation to inform their employers, and for good reason. It allows doctors to make this decision on their terms, and right up to the last minute, without the fear of being bullied or discriminated against for trade union membership and exercising their legal right to strike. This has been the case for all previous rounds of strike action, so its unclear why the Academy thinks it need to change now. We have been clear that - as we have during all previous rounds of industrial action - hospitals should assume that no resident doctors will be available to work on Friday. To ensure safe staffing this inevitably means cancelling non-urgent planned care, so senior doctors are able to cover for resident doctors in emergency and urgent settings. Hospitals have had weeks to make these preparations, so it is frustrating that this last-minute plea is being placed at the BMAs door. The Tour de France continues with what is sure to be another frenetic, fast-paced stage as the race transitions away from Provence to the high Alps. Stage 16 more than delivered on drama as Valentin Paret-Peintre ended the drought of stage wins for the home nation with a victory in a thrilling two-up sprint atop the legendary Mont Ventoux, getting the better of Irelands Ben Healy. Paret-Peintres victory - just his third at WorldTour level - marked his maiden Tour de France win and ensured the yellow jersey of Tadej Pogacar and his rival Jonas Vingegaard were denied glory on one of the Tours most legendary climbs. The pair were locked together all the way up the climb, with Vingegaard continually attacking but unable to distance the race leader, before Pogacar dropped the Dane in the closing metres to add another two seconds to his overall lead. Vingegaards frustration was compounded by a crash with a wayward photograph in the finish area, although he did not appear injured. 24-year-old Paret-Peintres success continued a strong Tour for Soudal-QuickStep, who have now won four stages, despite the loss of team leader and general classification hopeful Remco Evenepoel. How I won that stage is hard to say, I was thinking maybe I can win today, maybe I'm the best climber in this breakaway, Paret-Peintre said afterwards. I asked my team-mates to make a good pace at the bottom and I tried so many times to drop Healy but he was very strong and at the end, I was just waiting for the sprint and then I won. These last few days we went through a little storm, I guess, and now the sun shines again, he said, in reference to Evenepoels withdrawal. Its really amazing for me and for the team to win another stage, a fourth stage in this Tour, then tomorrow its a sprint we hope, so we can maybe win again [with sprinter Tim Merlier]. Paret-Peintre surged around Healy in the final few metres (AFP via Getty Images) As for Merlier: theres precious little for the sprinters to enjoy in the final week of the Tour de France, having struggled up Mont Ventoux yesterday and with the prospect of three frankly gruesome days in the Alps still to come. But today is the penultimate chance for the fast men, and quite possibly the only clear-cut sprint left in this years race. Stage 21 is traditionally of course a day for the sprinters, with loop after loop of Paris building to a nerve-wracking crescendo and the final launch down the Champs-Elysees. But the introduction of several laps of the category-four Montmartre climb has thrown a spanner in the works for the sprinters, meaning that stage 21 could look a lot like stage 11 in Toulouse: in theory a flat stage thats really anything but. So todays 160km run from Bollene to Valence may really be last chance saloon - so it seems safe to say, itll be a chaotic, frenzied day at the very least. There are two climbs on the menu: the category-four pairing of the Col du Pertuis (3.7km at 6.6%) and the Col de Tartaiguille (3.6km at 3.5%), spaced at the 66km and 117km mark respectively. After the Tartaiguille it flattens out for the final 40km of the stage, which should be enough time for a high-speed chase by the sprinters teams to reel in any escapees. Route map and profile Tour de France 2025 stage 17 map (letour) Tour de France 2025 stage 17 profile (letour) Start time Todays stage has a neutralised start time of 1.35pm local time (12.35pm BST), with an expected finish time of 5.10pm local time (4.10pm BST). Prediction Two sprinters have dominated this years flat stages, of which there have been vanishingly few: Tim Merlier has got the beating of Jonathan Milan in their two head-to-heads, on stage three and 10, with the Italian finishing second both times. Milan won the one sprint stage Merlier couldnt contest, stage eight, after the European champion suffered a late mechanical. In the absence of stage one winner Jasper Philipsen, sent packing with a broken collarbone, it looks like its down to this pair - unless one of the B-list sprinters of the peloton can spring a surprise. Milan is in desperate need of points after failing to make the breakaway and conceding the green points jersey on a stage to forget yesterday. But his Belgian rival has had his number so far in this Tour and for that reason were going with Tim Merlier. Donald Trump listens as the US defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, speaks during a cabinet meeting at the White House on 8 July. Photograph: Aaron Schwartz/EPA Donald Trumps advisers have abandoned an effort to find a new chief of staff to the defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, allowing senior adviser Ricky Buria to continue performing the duties in an acting role despite once viewing him as a liability, according to people familiar with the matter. Buria is not expected to formally receive the White Houses approval to become the permanent chief of staff to Hegseth, a position that became vacant after the first chief of staff, Joe Kasper, left in the wake of major upheaval in the secretarys front office earlier this year. But the attempt by the Trump advisers to block Buria from getting the job has fizzled in recent months as the news cycle moved away from the controversies that dogged Hegseth at the start of Trumps term and officials lost interest in managing personnel at the Pentagon, the people said. Related: US only has 25% of all Patriot missile interceptors needed for Pentagons military plans As a result, Buria has become a regular presence in the West Wing for briefings in the situation room and with senior White House and administration officials, and secured his standing at the Pentagon, where he is widely referred to as Chief Ricky. The developments are sure to also be a relief for Hegseth, who for months has been staring down the prospect of having his closest aide shunted aside because of concerns at the White House about a growing portrait of dysfunction in his front office. White House officials may yet revisit installing a replacement for the chief of staff position, which plays a key role in managing Hegseths front office and setting the direction of the $1tn defense department that oversees more than 2 million troops around the world. And it is uncertain if the extent to which senior White House and administration officials are now interacting with Buria is more because he is the only Hegseth aide empowered by the secretary to serve as his top staffer, rather than a vote of confidence by Trumps advisers. A spokesperson for the Pentagon referred reporting for this story to the White House. A spokesperson for the White House in a statement offered praise for Hegseth for restoring readiness and lethality to our military and putting our warfighters first after four years of ineptitude and abject failure by the Biden administration. At least part of the reason for Burias ascendancy at the defense department in recent months is because of a power vacuum in Hegseths front office and his role in bringing about the departures of some of his biggest detractors and rivals, according to current and former Pentagon officials. A former MV-22 Osprey pilot who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, Buria started as the junior military assistant to Joe Bidens defense secretary, Lloyd Austin, before Hegseth fired the senior military aide Lt Gen Jennifer Short and Buria swiftly stepped into the job. Buria then sought to become a political appointee and expanded his influence around the time that Hegseths office became rocked by a contentious leak investigation that resulted in the ouster of three top aides and the early exit of Kasper. Their exits amounted to four of the biggest obstacles to Buria assuming the job of chief of staff vanishing overnight, the officials said, and Buria presenting them to Hegseth as the end of his troubles with leaks to the media endeared him to the secretary. Hegseth has since defended Buria at every turn, even as the White House told the defense secretary he could keep Buria but that he would never become chief of staff, the Guardian previously reported. The White House was spooked by Burias elevation for several reasons, including that he had been identified as having sent some of the messages in the Signal group chat, which contained information that was almost certainly classified, because he had gained access to Hegseths phone. Hegseth accepted the compromise offered by the White House at the time but, in keeping Buria around, managed to in effect hand him the job anyway, two Trump advisers suggested. While Buria did not travel to the Nato summit last month, the Trump advisers said he did not get a seat on Air Force One with Hegseth or on a support plane because the trip was at capacity and senior aides to other secretaries were turned away. Still, the White House has maintained other reservations about Buria and his role in recurring office drama. Buria has also come under scrutiny in the Pentagon inspector general investigation into the Signalgate episode and whether he played a role in pushing out aides in the leak investigation. Donald Trump (right) with Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House in February. Photograph: Kent Nishimura/Reuters Donald Trump has announced a trade deal with Japan, potentially resolving weeks of fraught negotiations between the two allies which had caused economic uncertainty in Tokyo and mounting speculation about the future of the prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba. We just completed a massive deal with Japan, the US president announced in a post online, adding: Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 billion dollars into the United States. Ishiba said his countrys tariff negotiator had received the details of the deal and he would examine them before responding. Our overarching concern is the interests of the nation, he said. Related: Japan walks line between recession and submission as it seeks to overcome Trump tariffs In the post on Tuesday evening, Trump said Japanese imports would face a 15% tariff, an improvement on the 25% he threatened this month to impose from 1 August. It was unclear at what tariff rate US imports to Japan would be charged. Trump also claimed that Japan would open its market to US products including cars, trucks, rice and certain agricultural products, many of which had proved to be a sticking point in negotiations. Ishiba is facing growing opposition from within his own party after he vowed to stay on as leader after his coalition lost its upper-house majority in elections last weekend, after losing its majority in the lower house in October. His position is widely regarded as untenable in light of the two consecutive electoral defeats. After the deal was disclosed by Trump, Japans Mainichi newspaper reported that Ishiba would announce his resignation as prime minister by the end of next month. According to media reports, Ishiba told his close associates that he would explain how he would take responsibility for the election loss once a solution was reached on trade negotiations. The Guardian was unable to confirm these reports. A senior member of the Ishiba administration told the public broadcaster NHK that Trumps post on social media regarding the trade deal was accurate and something that Japan welcomes. US tariffs of 50% on imports of Japanese steel and aluminium are not part of the deal and the agreement does not include any reference to defence spending, Japans top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, said. Japans auto industry which accounts for 8% of jobs in the country was reeling from a 25% levy on imports to the US. The announcement on Tuesday made no mention of easing tariffs on cars which account for more than a quarter of all Japanese exports to the US but Ishiba later confirmed that the rate would be lowered to 15%. We are the first [country] in the world to reduce tariffs on automobiles and auto parts, with no limits on volume, he told reporters. Shares in Japanese automakers surged after the announcement, with Japans overall Nikkei 225 index of stocks gaining more than one percent. Earlier this month, Trump bemoaned Japanese consumers lack of enthusiasm for American cars and rice, labelling Japan very spoiled. He suggested that a deal with Japan might not be possible. Akazawa has been in the US this week for his eighth round of talks. Japans Asahi newspaper reported he met with Trump at the White House on Tuesday. The deal with Japan follows agreements struck in recent weeks with the Philippines, Indonesia, the UK and Vietnam, and come as Trump has faced pressure to wrap up trade pacts after promising a flurry of deals ahead of his 1 August tariff deadline. Trump announced a new 19% tariff rate for goods from the Philippines on Tuesday, after a visit to the White House from Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr Trump said there would be no tariffs from the Philippines on US goods. Later, the White House confirmed the same 19% tariff rate for Indonesia, down from an initial 32%, as it released terms of a deal reached last week that calls for Indonesia to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers on most US goods. With Reuters Specialty plateau industries thrive in Xizang's booming economy Xinhua) 09:45, July 23, 2025 LHASA, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Cering Qoizha is excited at the prospect of his company's expansion: a new workshop, which will process 5,000 yaks each year, is set to open in September and will be a major milestone in the company's growth. Established in 2009, the Garqoi ecological animal husbandry development company is located in Xagqu Township of Nyainrong County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region -- an area with an average altitude of 4,700 meters. What began as a small firm has now become a regionally leading enterprise, specializing in yak and sheep breeding, frozen meat processing, dairy production and the processing and sale of tsampa, which is a traditional Tibetan staple food made from highland barley flour. Committed to bringing premium agricultural and pastoral products from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to broader markets, the company currently manages 2,520 hectares of pastureland, as well as over 1,200 yaks and sheep. "We now employ 115 staff members," said Cering Qoizha, the company's vice general manager. Of that total, 12 are management personnel who were formerly local unemployed graduates of universities and colleges, and the rest were recruited from low-income households in the county. The company's high-quality products have driven its continuous expansion over recent years, leading to the establishment of stores in Xizang's Lhasa and Nagqu cities, and in Chengdu, the capital city of the neighboring Sichuan Province. "These efforts have significantly boosted the brand profile of northern Xizang's livestock products," he said. In 2024, the company's total sales surpassed 13 million yuan (about 1.82 million U.S. dollars). With ambitious plans for 2025, the firm is targeting annual sales of 20 million yuan. In Qamdo City's Banbar County, a burgeoning black goat breeding industry has recently drawn significant attention. Nutritional analyses confirm Banbar black goat meat contains substantially higher concentrations of potassium, protein and amino acids than typical goat meat, along with lower cholesterol levels -- making it a premium and health-conscious choice. "The county now maintains a high-quality breeding stock of over 6,200 animals," said Tan Bo, head of the county's agriculture and rural affairs bureau. "By integrating our specialty black goat breeding with tourism initiatives, including the establishment of dedicated black goat meat restaurants serving premium products to visitors, we've created a powerful new driver for rural revitalization," Tan said. Highland barley, the staple food for residents of Xizang, is now at the heart of a major distillery project in Chagyab County, which is located in Qamdo City. With an investment of 1 billion yuan, the project is set to be built into a modern industrial park featuring a highland barley grain warehouse, yeast production workshop, brewing facility, storage units, packaging workshop and testing lab, according to Feng Juyao, deputy general manager of Xizang Kangjiu, the company in charge of the project. "The facility is set to begin operations in August," Feng said. "At full capacity, it will produce 5,000 tonnes of unblended highland barley liquor and 15,000 tonnes of finished liquor annually," he added, referring to a type of distilled spirit. The project is also expected to boost local employment. Wang Yongzhang, head of the company's human resources department, said that about 300 jobs will be created for locals, each coming with an approximate average monthly income of 6,000 yuan. Local resident Gaggya, 24, joined the company in June 2024. He graduated from a college in the eastern Jiangsu Province in 2023. "I wanted to work in my hometown to stay close to my family," Gaggya said. "The company provides professional training and expert guidance, helping us develop new skills." Xizang has been making efforts to develop industries with local characteristics, including its yak, highland barley and Tibetan medicine industries. The rapid growth of these specialty industries has positioned them among the most dynamic and promising drivers of Xizang's economy. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) President Donald Trump would have forced Bryan Kohberger to publicly explain why he killed four Idaho college students after the cold-blooded killer declined to share his motive during his sentencing hearing. After sharing a message from the White House to the families of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, who were brutally stabbed to death inside an Idaho home in 2022, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that if it were up to Trump, more would be done to deliver justice. "If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, Leavitt said, despite there being no obligation for Kohberger to share a motive for the crime. The horrifying November 2022 killings of the four University of Idaho students shocked the college town of Moscow and captivated national audiences due to the sheer violence with no clear motive. Kohberger maintained his innocence for over two years until July 2, when he abruptly took a plea deal. With the deal, he pleaded guilty to all four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, and became no longer eligible for the death penalty. "While Life Imprisonment is tough, it's certainly better than receiving the Death Penalty but, before Sentencing, I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders," Trump wrote on Truth Social after the plea deal. "There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING." Shortly after Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison, the White House said Trump would have forced him to tell why he committed the murders. (AP) The plea deal also included no obligation for Kohberger to share his motive, apologize or express remorse. While defendants can use their statement during a sentencing hearing to express remorse, or explain their actions before their sentencing, the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantees the right to remain silent during sentencing hearings, meaning they can choose not to speak at all. Judge Steven Hippler on Wednesday handed Kohberger four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. Kohberger remained quiet during the hearing, held in Boise, Idaho, speaking only to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court and divulge why he committed the horrific murders. Parents who took children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, an emotional Hippler said. The judge acknowledged the families desire to learn why Kohberger committed the murders, but said the public may never learn the reasoning. By continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency. We give him power, Hippler said. The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave. If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. (via REUTERS) During the emotional, nearly three-hour-long hearing, the parents, grandparents, siblings and two surviving roommates of the four slain students confronted Kohberger as he sat, largely uninterested, wearing an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs. Even the Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson was moved to tears by the case as he recommended Kohberger spend the rest of his life behind bars. Kohbergers defense attorneys announced last week that they would not be releasing any statements for the sentencing. After he changed his plea to guilty, both sides agreed to a proposed sentencing of four consecutive life sentences without parole, in addition to 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. At least 10 people have been killed and many other injured while battling wildfire in Turkey, the government in the country has said. Those who lost their lives were firefighters and rescue workers battling the fires in northwestern Turkey. The five forestry workers and five members of the AKUT rescue organization died while trying to put out the wildfire raging through a forested area of Eskisehir province, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said. At least 14 other rescuers and forestry workers were hospitalized. The deaths bring the number of fatalities in wildfires that have flared amid strong winds, high temperatures and dry conditions so far in the country this year to 13. The minister said the wind suddenly changed direction, causing the flames to shift rapidly and surround the forest workers. President Erdogan paid tribute to the victims (AP) It was not immediately clear what caused the fire. Yumakli said firefighters were currently battling seven wildfires in Turkey, including the one in Eskisehir, adding that extreme heat and volatile wind conditions also were expected in Turkey on Thursday. Starting tomorrow, we are facing extraordinary temperatures and extreme wind shifts. Once again, I call on all 86 million citizens to be vigilant and exercise extra caution," he said. In a message of condolence to the families, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the victims had fought to protect our forests at cost of their lives. Two prosecutors were assigned to investigate the incident, the country's justice minister said. Turkey has been battling wildfires since June 26. An elderly man and two forestry workers were killed in a wildfire that raged near the town of Odemis, in Izmir province, earlier this month. Ukraines spy chief Kyrylo Budanov (R) said Volodymyr Zelenskys bill threatened to tear the country apart - X Volodymyr Zelensky has appeared to backtrack on his controversial corruption reform in an attempt to end protests in Ukraine. The president said he had heard what people are saying and decided to propose a new bill in parliament in two weeks time. Very importantly, all norms for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will be included, he said. Despite the apparent climbdown, thousands still descended onto the streets of Kyiv for a large-scale protest on Wednesday night shortly after the president made the statement. Some protesters said they did not believe the presidents attempt to address criticism of the reform went far enough. Olena, 19, a student from Sumy, told The Telegraph she was demonstrating because I want in my country not corruption, not usurpation of the government. She said she wanted Ukraine to embrace European values adding that Ukraines corruption watchdogs should be independent. Mr Zelenskys corruption reform sparked protests across Ukraine - Ivan Antypenko/Suspilne Ukraine/JSC/Getty Images Mr Zelensky has faced unprecedented pushback from the public, serving soldiers and Ukraines western partners over his move on Tuesday to strip the countrys two key anti-corruption agencies of their autonomy. AntAC, an anti-corruption NGO, said it remained to be seen how far the president would go in restoring the free operation of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (Sapo). Tetiana Shevchuk, the head of international relations at AntAC, said: We havent seen the text of this new bill. And two weeks is a long time. If parliament was able to adopt the law in 24 hours, they should be able to rectify their mistake in the same time frame. Im happy that Zelensky has the wisdom not to escalate with the public, but we will have to see if it is done properly. The law, passed on Tuesday, handed control of the agencies over to the prosecutor general, a position directly appointed by the president. The bill raised fears that Mr Zelensky could prevent the bodies pursuing cases against his close allies, such as Oleksiy Chernyshov, the former deputy prime minister, who was recently charged with accepting bribes. Thousands of demonstrators gathered to protest in Kyiv on Tuesday evening - Vitalii Nosach/Getty Images Earlier on Wednesday, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, conveyed her strong concerns over the law, her spokesman said. Brussels chiefs warned Mr Zelenskys original legislation endangered both supplies of aid and Ukraines eventual entry into the European Union. Europe has become Ukraines most influential partner, filling the gulf left by the almost complete cessation of US supplies of money and weaponry since the start of the year. Protesters took to the streets across the cities of Kyiv, Dnipro, Lviv and Odesa on Tuesday night, and further demonstrations were due to be held on Wednesday. Credit: Igor Zakharenko The armed forces also spoke out against the measures, accusing the president of undermining morale at the front and handing a victory to Russia. Vitalii Umanets, one Ukrainian soldier, said: Whoever isnt in the military, please go out to the protest for me, because without independent anti-corruption bodies, theres no point at all in our current struggle, in our future victory. Mykhailo Lavrovskyi, a soldier in the 1st Azov Corps of the Ukrainian National Guard, wrote on X: You can argue for a long time about the effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine, but pulling off such bulls--- while fully aware that people will be against it is a deliberate provocation playing into Moscows hands. One Ukrainian officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Telegraph that the reform was definitely going to impact the morale of the soldiers, even simply by diverting attention from the fight. In ambiguous comments that could have been directed at the presidents office or the protesters, Ukraines spy chief warned that the country could be torn apart by the crisis and called for open dialogue. Kyrylo Budanov said: Ukrainian history has taught us that a nation loses if it is torn apart by internal contradictions. Credit:Bohdan Ben Opponents characterised the original legislation as a power-grab by an increasingly authoritarian leader, panicked by the launch of investigations into his own inner circle. Mr Zelensky had attempted to justify the law, on Wednesday morning, saying he had met with the Nabu and Sapo leaders and agreed to produce a joint action plan in two weeks to ensure the country had a strong enough anti-corruption system. In our opinion, Zelensky acted [at first] because anti-corruption agencies got closer to his close allies, Ms Shevchuk said. Zelensky is not against the fight against corruption, but its not comfortable when it strikes so close he feels its going out of control. Mr Chernyshov was charged, along with his associates, of accepting bribes to give the go-ahead to an apartment block development. The charges, which he denied before being sacked in a reshuffle, allege that he accepted an apartment in exchange for the approval. This is the first big political protest in three and a half years, which is a lot, Ms Shevchuk said. We dont like the pictures in foreign media, because we understand the war is going on. But corruption in defence procurement, for example, posed sometimes even a greater risk to Ukraine than the fluctuating level of Western support. The resolution is very simple, Ms Shevchuk added. Scrap the law and say this was a mistake. Otherwise it looks like a high-level attempt to protect corruption. On Wednesday night, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators met in Istanbul for the third round of peace talks, with both sides expressing some openness to further dialogue. A Ukrainian spokesman emphasised that securing a meeting between Mr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin remained a top priority, saying that big issues like a ceasefire can only be resolved at the highest level. Ukraine offered face-to-face talks between the two leaders before the end of August, which it said would suit the deadline Donald Trump gave Putin this month to end the war within 50 days or face very severe tariffs. Schoolchildren in Nigeria (WFP/Damilola Onafuwa) In Kasai, one of the poorest parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo, tens of thousands of girls are going to school for the first time thanks to a UK programme reducing the risk that they will be forced into child marriage or face lives scarred by violence. But now this project is being abandoned as hundreds of millions of pounds soon to be billions is stripped from our aid budget, which means 170,000 children will miss out on the lessons that would have transformed their lives, ministers admitted in a document published this week. This dismal picture is echoed in other African countries education work is also being cut in Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Zimbabwe and the governments Girls Education Department is losing a staggering 51 pr cent of its funding. Quietly, Britains status as a global leader in education is shrivelling at huge cost to our reputation, and to the British companies that export education services around the world as well as to the children we promised to help with a return to school after the devastating Covid-19 pandemic. And yet these weeks cuts are just a taste of much worse to come if the government sticks to its plan to target education when the bulk of the aid cuts strike next year. After that, how many of the 19 country programmes the UK currently runs will survive if any? Where will that leave the pledges the UK drove through at the G7 Summit in Cornwall in 2021, in the shadow of Covid, for the world to enable 40 million more girls in poorer countries to go to school by 2026? If we pull back, other rich nations will be emboldened to do the same. The scale of the cuts also leaves the UKs commitment to vital global funds the Global Partnership for Education and Education Cannot Wait, for emergencies hanging in the balance ahead of fresh donor pledging rounds. Gordon Brown, the former Labour prime minister, played a critical role in establishing Education Cannot Wait and has spoken powerfully of how it offers hope and opportunity to millions of children trapped in conflicts and crises in Myanmar, Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and in many parts of Africa. When children in conflict and their families are asked for their priorities, education is often top of their list It must be unthinkable for this Labour government to turn its back on such a crucial initiative and yet much more savage cuts will have to be made this autumn. That is the reality of a 40 per cent reduction to the international development budget. I urge ministers to remember that education is one of the most effective uses of our aid budget, allowing children who score well in reading and maths to go on to earn around 11 per cent more as adults, according to recent research reported in The Independent. The vast costs of inaction, of failing to invest in education, are also clear: they have been estimated by the United Nations to deprive the global economy of $10 trillion across the next decade. It is striking that, even amid the destruction of aid programmes in the United States, politicians are coming together to spare global education programmes recognising they bolster peace and security and create future trading opportunities, as well as combatting poverty. The UK government wants to foster stronger partnerships across the globe, and supporting education will help. A decade ago, the UK shared this belief, dedicating 11 per cent of its aid to education, but that share fell sharply to just 4 per cent after previous aid budget cuts. Education is too important for it to be allowed to wither away entirely. Bambos Charalambous is the Labour MP for Southgate and Wood Green, and co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Global Education This article was produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid project Donald Trumps intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard took over the White House briefing room Wednesday to continue pressing her narrative about a coup supposedly launched by Barack Obama. The latest conspiracy has been pressed by both Gabbard and President Donald Trump since the weekend as the administration returns to the Russiagate investigation as an apparent diversion while Trump is facing uproar from his base over his administrations efforts to tamp down on speculation surrounding the death and crimes of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted pedophile. In early July, the Department of Justice and FBI declared in a joint statement that no client list detailing Epsteins co-conspirators could be found within the DOJs files; the statement also reiterated the agencies conclusion that Epstein died by suicide in 2019. On Wednesday, the presidents weeks-long effort to find a distraction to turn his bases focus from that statement resulted in the director of the U.S. intelligence community declaring behind the White House podium that former President Obama ordered intelligence assessments to be doctored to include the assertion that Russia was working directly to elect Trump. Gabbard called the investigation into Trumps 2016 campaign a years-long coup orchestrated by the former president, something that Obama dismissively rejected in a rare statement this week condemning the Trump administrations latest claims. Director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard accused Barack Obama of launching a 'coup' over intelligence committee assessments of Russian interference in U.S. elections (AFP/Getty) There is irrefutable evidence that detailed how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false, Gabbard told reporters. They manufactured findings from shoddy sources, they suppressed evidence and credible intelligence that disproved their false claims. They disobeyed traditional trade craft intelligence community standards, and withheld the truth from the American people, she said. In doing so, they conspired to subvert the will of the American people, she continued, later asserting that the supposedly serious changes to ODNI assessments (which in reality do not show a difference in conclusion) amounted to a years long coup against the incoming president United States, Donald Trump. Gabbards report, released last week, closely followed an article from the Wall Street Journal purporting to contain a note from Trump to Epstein as part of the latters 50th birthday celebration in 2003. The note, framed as an imagined dialogue between the two men, alludes to a shared secret between the two. The U.S. president strongly denied the notes authenticity and swiftly filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the WSJ, its parent company News Corp and founder Rupert Murdoch, among others. With the Jeffrey Epstein saga consuming more and more of the media atmosphere every day, the White House turned late last week to Barack Obama and the FBI investigation into his first campaign for the presidency as Trumps aides seek to move the news cycle along. The memo authored by Gabbard last week, which she summarized on Tuesday, accuses the Obama administration of lying to the American public about Russias supposed interest in seeing Trump elected. In reality, straight-news coverage of the 2016 election largely centered around the reality, verified by both the FBIs special counsel investigation headed up by Robert Mueller and a bipartisan probe conducted by the Senate Intelligence Committee. Russian-backed hackers struck the servers of the Democratic National Committee in 2016, then published those materials online in an effort to damage the candidacy of Hillary Clinton. Russian influence campaigns on social media spanned a wide range of efforts including backing Trump, opposing Clinton, and disseminating misinformation. Gabbards memo also mischaracterized the general assessment of the American intelligence community in 2016: that Russian intelligence agents had not attemped to directly influence vote totals through the hacking of election infrastructure, a finding which her office seemed to conflate with an absence of any Russian influence efforts altogether. Former President Barack Obama has released a rare statement on 'Russia-gate' after President Donald Trump accused him of committing 'treason.' (Scott Olson/Getty Images) On Wednesday, the director of national intelligence backed away from that conflation entirely. She and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted that it was the Trump administrations view that Russian actors had interfered in the 2016 election through the use of social media botnets and other means to sow distrust and chaos, but without any clear goal or motive. There was no explanation to what end Russia was supposedly sowing distrust and chaos, by hacking the servers of one major political party and not the other, if not with the aim of benefiting the party not forced to explain damaging internal emails which fueled accusations from Clintons critics in the party that the DNC establishment favored her. Gabbard also dodged questions about what steps the Trump administration would take from here, or why the president and his allies had waited until statutes of limitations had likely expired on any criminal charges that could rise from the matter (were Trumps allegations of misconduct actually true). She referred questions about possible criminal charges to the Department of Justice and Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose own future in the administration is already on possibly shaky ground as the criticism of her declaration about the Epstein case continues to fester. Neither she nor Leavitt could explain why the Senate Intelligence Committee (including now-Secretary of State Marco Rubio) did not find that the Obama administration had improperly changed any ODNI assessments in its report released in 2020. Justice Department officials have been notably quiet amid the clamoring from the White House for retribution against Obama and top members of his administration, including Clinton, his director of national intelligence James Clapper, and FBI director James Comey. Bondi has announced no plans to launch a new investigation into the matter, and Gabbard herself can only refer evidence to the DOJ for review. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is leaving town early this week to dodge a vote on a bipartisan resolution that would force the administration to release the Epstein files, and Trump is increasingly swinging at longer and longer lists of his perceived foes as the pressure from his base ramps up and accusations of a cover-up grow louder. In a now-deleted Truth Social post, Trump even bashed his supporters who support calls to investigate Epsteins accomplices weak and claimed he didnt need their support. New York City shelters, like the ASPCA Adoption Center, have seen an uptick in animals this summer as a new report reveals many residents are surrendering their pets because they can't afford them (ASPCA) New York City animal shelters are becoming overwhelmed as residents surrender more and more pets amid an ongoing affordability crisis, according to a new report. The Animal Care Centers of New York City a network of public animal shelters in Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island told The New York Times they have 1,000 animals in their system as of last week. The shelter network is now caring for hundreds of cats, dogs and kittens. The network is also housing 50 rabbits, a dozen guinea pigs and several birds. The increase in surrenders comes as pet owners are increasingly unable to afford their furry friends, according to the Times. People are surrendering animals nonstop, and the shelters are struggling to keep up, Animal Care Centers Communications Director Katy Hansen told the newspaper. Not everybody is surrendering their pet because they just dont have time, Hansen said. Theres a lot of people that are just, like, really struggling. And its sad. You know, they come in, theyre crying. I think its just people are broke, she added. The wealth gap is hitting hard. New York City shelters, like the ASPCA Adoption Center, have seen an uptick in animals this summer as a new report reveals many residents are surrendering their pets because they can't afford them (ASPCA) It can cost pet owners thousands of dollars per year to take care of their animals. The ASPCA estimates cat owners pay more than $1,100 in the first year they own their pet, while large dog owners pay more than $2,000 in the first year. Meanwhile, about half of New York City households are unable to make ends meet, and the cost of basic needs is rising faster than earnings, according to a 2023 report by the non-profit United Way New York City. An ASPCA spokesperson told The Independent the agencys New York City adoption center has also seen an uptick in animals in recent weeks. This uptick is the result of a variety of factors, including an increase in 311 calls, criminal complaint reports and criminal cases, as well as ongoing capacity challenges that many shelters across the country are facing, the spokesperson said. Summer is also generally a busier time of year for shelters as it coincides with kitten season, when shelters nationwide are flooded with vulnerable, newborn kittens who require specialized care, the spokesperson added. The summer is one of the busiest time for animal shelters, according to the ASPCA (ASPCA) Its not cheap for shelters to care for the animals, either. The Dakin Humane Society, a shelter based in Springfield, Massachusetts, estimates it costs their shelter about $950 per animal they care for. Thats because animals that pass through shelters often have extra medical and behavioral needs, the Dakin Humane Society says. The Animal Care Centers of New York City says it has suspended intake as a result of this uptick, except for animals that were sent in by government agencies, animals that pose threats to the public and animals having medical emergencies. We cant adopt our way out, Hansen told the Times. I mean, unless we did a thousand adoptions this weekend, but thats pretty unrealistic. So what is it that we can do? I dont know. I think everyones trying to figure it out. Tech earnings season kicks off in earnest on Wednesday, when Google parent Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL) reports its results after the bell. And Wall Streets two favorite letters will once again dominate the conversation: AI From continued capex spending to questions about if and how those huge cash outlays are driving new revenue streams, AI will seemingly be all investors and analysts talk about. But Big Tech companies are also facing a variety of additional challenges this quarter, ranging from Google's antitrust trial to Microsoft's (MSFT) relationship with OpenAI (OPAI.PVT) to Apple's (AAPL) ongoing AI troubles. And while AI darling Nvidia (NVDA) won't report its earnings until Aug. 27, leaving the most anticipated disclosure of the season more than a month away, there will be plenty of news and announcements to track in the interim. And it's certain to make for a busy earnings cycle. AI sales growth is still at the center of the conversation Big Tech's billions of dollars in investments into AI data centers helped power Nvidia's massive growth over the past few years, but Wall Street is looking to see how much that spending is paying off. During Amazon's (AMZN) last earnings call, CEO Andy Jassy said the company's AI business "has a multibillion dollar annual revenue run rate, continues to grow triple-digit year-over-year percentages, and is still in its very early days." What's more, Jassy said prior to the latest generation of AI, Amazon believed AWS had a chance to be a multi-$100 billion run rate business, and now the company believes it can grow even more beyond that. But Amazon will need to show off how exactly it plans to get there to keep investors happy when it reports on July 31. Google, which reports today, and Microsoft, which reports July 30, will also have to prove their AI plans are paying dividends. Google has added its Gemini model to its Workspace productivity software and across its search products, including its AI Overviews and AI Mode. Read more: Live coverage of corporate earnings During the company's Q1 earnings call, senior vice president and chief business officer Philipp Schindler said AI Overviews searches monetize at the same rate as standard search queries, which leaves room for improvement. The company said its AI expansion and Google Cloud Platform Core products also helped power a 28% increase in its Cloud segment revenue. But questions remain about how it will successfully monetize its AI Mode offering and fend off challenges from OpenAI, Anthropic (ANTH.PVT), and Perplexity (PEAI.PVT). Microsoft has benefited handsomely from its early investments in ChatGPT creator OpenAI. The company attributed 16 percentage points of growth in its Azure and other cloud services revenue to its AI offerings. It's not all sunshine and rainbows for Microsoft and OpenAI, though. The companies are at odds over how OpenAI should move forward with its plan to transform into a public benefit corporation and what that means for Microsoft's equity in the new organization. Then there's Meta (META), which said it's already seeing positive signs from its AI investments, including longer user engagement and its advertising business. "We're testing a new ads recommendation model for Reels, which has already increased conversion rates by 5%," CEO Mark Zuckerberg said during the company's last earnings call. "And we're seeing 30% more advertisers are using AI creative tools in the last quarter as well." And the company isn't letting up on spending. Last week, Zuckerberg said Meta will spend hundreds of billions of dollars on data centers, including one that will be as large as a chunk of the island of Manhattan to power what the executive refers to as "personal" superintelligence. What exactly that means remains to be seen. Hopefully, Zuckerberg will add clarity when the company reports its results on July 30. Apple's AI conundrum Apple's earnings will focus on iPhone sales, as they always do, but investors will also be looking for insights into CEO Tim Cook's plans to expand his company's AI capabilities. So far, Apple, which also reports on July 31, has rolled out its Apple Intelligence platform across its various hardware offerings, but it still hasnt managed to impress Wall Street due to delays in its AI-powered Siri. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company is considering using third-party AI models to bring Siri up to speed with the latest AI functionalities, but there's no word from Apple on the potential move. Apple rivals Google and Samsung, meanwhile, have been releasing ever more advanced AI capabilities via Google's Gemini AI, putting further pressure on the iPhone maker. Compounding Apple's AI issues is the fact that Apple is losing AI talent to its competitors. According to Gurman, Ruoming Pang, Apple's head of AI models, left the company for Meta. Two other Apple AI employees, Mark Lee and Tom Gunter, followed shortly thereafter. While Apple is unlikely to announce any big AI plans during its earnings call, it will be interesting to see if Cook provides deeper insights into how customers are using Apple Intelligence and their overall satisfaction rate. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang at an event in Paris on June 11. (Sarah Meyssonnier/Pool via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) Nvidia is earnings season's main event Nvidia will close out Big Tech's earnings when it reports after the closing bell on Aug. 27. It's hard to overstate how big Nvidia's earnings announcements have become. The company surpassed the $4 trillion market cap mark in July and doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. Nvidia continues to power the explosion in AI data center construction, with companies like xAI regularly touting how many Nvidia chips they're acquiring to build out their supercomputing projects. And with the company expanding into sovereign AI, with plans to sell thousands of AI chips to Saudi Arabia, it's staring down a broader market opportunity. It also doesn't hurt that the Trump administration will greenlight the sale of its H20 chips to Chinese companies after previously barring them. That should help offset the $4.5 billion write-down the company took in Q1 due to the White House's initial sales ban and the $8 billion hit it projected for Q2. It all should make for an interesting end to earnings season, and it starts today. Sign up for Yahoo Finance's Week in Tech newsletter. (yahoofinance) Email Daniel Howley at dhowley@yahoofinance.com. Follow him on X/Twitter at @DanielHowley. Click here for the latest technology news that will impact the stock market Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance I've lived in Italy for many years, and I have seen tourists make the same big mistakes. Federica Bocco I was raised in Italy, and I believe many mistakes tourists make here are easily avoidable. Visitors should embrace the culture through our local restaurants and water fountains. You can avoid overpaying for food or tours when you do research beyond influencer recommendations. I was raised in Italy and now live in Rome every day, I see numerous tourists making mistakes during their trips here. Keep reading for things I wish visitors would stop doing when they come to Italy, for their sake and the country's. Arriving with wrong expectations about how things work in Italy Italy isn't a perfect place, but that doesn't make it any less special. Federica Bocco Too often, I've found that visitors have a preconceived notion of Italy being a romanticized version of their own countries, and they're disappointed when it doesn't live up to sky-high expectations. In other cases, visitors are disappointed that Italy doesn't operate exactly like their country does back home. Either way, when you visit Italy, balance your expectations and ditch the need to compare our country to yours. Visiting Italy is a learning experience of art, history, culture, and traditions. Tourists should keep an open mind and understand that cultural differences might take them by surprise. Relying on recommendations and advice from influencers Guidebooks can be a great resource. Federica Bocco I've seen a lot of TikToks about users complaining about how they were "lied to" by influencers who made prime Italian destinations, like the Amalfi Coast, seem unrealistically perfect. Every opinion counts, and it's fair for tourists to listen to what influencers have to say about a destination. However, you shouldn't solely rely on their takes. The truth is, influencers often have access to resources the average traveler doesn't, like gifted services, VIP access, or the ability to splurge on high-end perks. With that in mind, tourists should do research across multiple channels, whether it's reading guidebooks written by locals or comparing information found in multiple articles and blog posts about the same topic. Littering and ignoring waste-sorting rules It's sad I have to remind anyone of this, but littering is harmful to the environment and incredibly disrespectful to the locals. Federica Bocco Every day, I see tourists fail to dispose of their trash properly. Littering is unacceptable, not to mention illegal and disrespectful to locals. As you should do in any place on earth, hold onto your waste until you come across a trash bin. And, if you're staying in an apartment or home rental, please don't just throw all of your trash in one bin. Take some time to try to understand our local system in Italy, where waste sorting is mandatory. Buying water and skipping public fountains You'll likely see drinking fountains throughout Rome. Federica Bocco Speaking of trash, stop purchasing plastic water bottles when you visit. Drinking fountains are very common in Italy, and some cities here even highly encourage tourists to drink from them. In Rome alone, there are 2,500 drinking fountains called nasoni. These historic fixtures often serve the same water that flows through the tap in nearby houses and hotels. I suggest carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it at every nasone. It's free! If you're sightseeing anywhere in Italy and get thirsty but there is no fountain in sight, open Waidy, a free phone app that can direct you to the fountains nearest you. Overpaying for things, then complaining about your trip being expensive I've noticed tourists tend to want to pay more for things that are worth less. Federica Bocco Some visitors assume that more expensive equals better quality when they compare goods and services. In reality, you should do a quick Google search to see what the average price should be for that thing in the location you're in. Also, read reviews. If you read on a restaurant's menu that a carbonara costs 20 euros and still choose to order it when you can get it just as good for 9 euros elsewhere, that's on you. Also, please avoid paying any unofficial vendor who promises they can help you skip a line at an attraction or museum. Just pay the regular ticket price and get in line like everybody else. It'll save you time and money. Not exploring our local culinary scene I can't believe some people travel all the way to Italy to visit fast-food chains. Federica Bocco Don't order dishes you can find back home, skip the fast-food chains, and let your senses experience your Italian holiday to the fullest. Support local restaurants and food vendors, which is yet another way of showing respect to residents while also authentically getting to know the culinary traditions of the place you're visiting. Trust me, you won't run out of options. Italian cuisine is so broad since every region has its own specialties based on the best local produce. You could go to the same restaurant for a week and never have the same dish twice. Defacing monuments and taking pieces of them home Don't carve your name (or anything, actually) on the Colosseum. FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP/Getty Images I can't believe I have to say this, but after everything tourists have ruined, let me remind you it's illegal to vandalize our monuments. Stop writing on the Colosseum or the Leaning Tower of Pisa or anywhere you shouldn't be, really. It can get you arrested, and it's incredibly disrespectful to our cultural heritage. Also, don't take home any artifacts or pieces of relics you might find at archaeological sites. The piece of a column from Pompeii is not yours to take, even if it's on the floor. If you want a souvenir so badly, purchase replicas or special items from nearby shops. This story was originally published on August 12, 2023, and most recently updated on July 23, 2025. Read the original article on Business Insider Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to four life sentences without the possibility of parole on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to the murders of four University of Idaho students in 2022. The surviving roommates and families of the victims delivered emotional statements at the sentencing hearing, held in a courtroom in Boise. When given the opportunity to speak, Kohberger declined to do so. Kohberger pleaded guilty earlier this month to the murders of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves as part of a plea deal that spared him from the death penalty. He was in the courtroom Wednesday wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and listened as the families of the victims confronted him with powerful statements. The hearing lasted about three hours, with more than a dozen family impact statements read aloud. Chapin, Kernodle, Mogen and Goncalves were killed at a home in Moscow, Idaho, during the early morning hours of Nov. 13, 2022. Kohberger was arrested at his parents' home in Pennsylvania six weeks later. Prosecutors said that if the case had gone to trial they would have used DNA evidence that linked Kohberger to the crime scene, his online purchase history, surveillance video of Kohberger's car, and cellphone data that showed him in the vicinity of the killings. His motive is still unknown. Photos show the four University of Idaho students who were stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2022. Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders. / Credit: CBS News Kohberger sentenced to life in prison Judge Steven Hippler spoke emotionally for several minutes before sentencing Kohberger. He called Kohberger a "faceless coward" and said he was in "great awe" of the family members who had given statements. He also criticized Kohberger for failing to show remorse or regret about the slayings. He said he could not legally force Kohberger to explain why he had committed the slayings, and said he did not believe Kohberger would answer the question truthfully either way. "There is no reason for these crimes that could approach anything resembling rationality," Hippler said. "No conceivable reason could make any sense, and in the end, the more we struggle to seek explanation for the unexplainable, the more we try to extract a reason, the more power and control we give to him. In my view, the time has now come to end Mr. Kohberger's 15 minutes of fame." After speaking, Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four consecutive sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole. He was also sentenced to 10 years in prison on the burglary charge. Kohberger did not react after the sentence was read out. For each charge, Kohberger was also charged $50,000. He also owes a civil penalty of $5,000, payable to the family of the victim, for each murder charge. Kohberger will be required to submit DNA as part of the plea deal, Hippler said. Kohberger has waived his right to an appeal, but can file a notice of appeal, Hippler said, though that notice might violate the plea agreement. Victim impact statements About two hours of the hearing were dedicated to statements read by the loved ones of the victims. The first victim impact statement was read on behalf of Bethany Funke, who had lived with the murdered students and called 911 after finding their bodies. "That was the worst day of my life, and I know it always will be," Funke said in the statement, which was read by friend Emily Alant. Funke added that she checks her room every night to ensure there is no one hiding in the space, and said she has struggled to sleep since the slayings. Alant cried as she read the statement, while Kohberger showed no emotion. Dylan Mortensen, the other surviving roommate, was the next to speak. She was visibly distraught and took several moments to collect herself before beginning to read her statement through tears. She said she has struggled with panic attacks since the killings. "I was barely 19 when he did this," Mortensen said. "We had just celebrated my birthday at the end of September. I should have been figuring out who I was. I should have been having the college experience and starting to establish my future. Instead, I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable." Dylan Mortensen speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP Scott Laramie, Madison Mogen's stepfather, then read a victim impact statement on behalf of himself and Mogen's mother, Karen Laramie. He remembered Mogen as someone who "always brought us joy" and who prioritized spending time with her family before she was "taken senselessly and brutally in a sudden act of evil." "This world was a better place with her in it," Laramie said. Karen Laramie had a second statement read on her behalf by her lawyer, Leander James. Mogen's paternal grandmother Kim Cheeley also spoke, thanking prosecutors and law enforcement officials for "bringing this case to closure." Mogen's father, Ben Mogen, said that his daughter had already earned all of the credits necessary for her degree at the time of the slayings, and wiped his eyes as he spoke. "Maddie was my only child that I ever had. She's the only great thing I ever did and the only thing I was ever proud of," Ben Mogen said. He recounted taking her to concerts with friends, and shared a Father's Day card that he said was the last thing his daughter ever wrote to him, where she'd written "I can't wait till we can hang out again soon." Benjamin Mogen, the father of Madison Mogen, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP Steve Goncalves, the father of Kaylee Goncalves, turned the podium to address Kohberger directly. Kohberger continued to not react, though he made eye contact with Steve Goncalves as he spoke. "Today, we're here to finish what you started," Steve Goncalves said. He called Kohberger a "complete joke" and said the families of the victims "took this disaster" and kept it focused on their loved ones. "All anyone talked about when they talked about this case was Kaylee Jade, Maddie May, Xana and Ethan," Steve Goncalves said. He was followed by Alivea Goncalves, Kaylee Goncalves' older sister, who had also been close to Mogen. She again directly spoke to Kohberger, and he maintained eye contact with her, as she called him a sociopath. Alivea Goncalves, the sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP "No one is scared of you today. No one is impressed by you. No one thinks you're important," Alivea Goncalves said. There was applause in the courtroom after she finished speaking. She was followed by her and Kaylee Goncalves' mother, Kristi, who again directly addressed Kohberger. Goncalves family attorney Shannon Grey read statements from Kaylee Goncalves' aunt and grandmothers. Jazzmin Kernodle, the older sister of Xana Kernodle, was the first member of her family to speak. She remembered her younger sister as a "kind, funny" woman who "was everyone's best friend." Her father Jeff Kernodle spoke next. He said that the night of the murders, he had been just seven miles from the house and wanted to drive over but decided against it because he had been drinking. "I wish I would have drunk and drove. They would have had a chance, all four of them," Jeff Kernodle said. Next to speak was Kim Kernodle, Xana's aunt. She told Kohberger that she had "forgiven" him for the slayings. "I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, and for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. Any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, find my number. I'm here. I'll be that one that will listen to you." Kernodle's uncle Stratton Kernodle and stepfather Randy Davis also spoke briefly, with Davis receiving applause after telling Kohberger to "Go to hell." Karen Worthington, Xana Kernodle's mother, then addressed Kohberger directly, facing in his direction as she read a prepared statement. She also said she had forgiven Kohberger. "I do not fear you or even let you rent space in my head anymore. This forgiveness has released me from any and all evil you have released on me and my family," she said. Prosecutor details process behind plea deal After the families finished speaking, prosecutor Bill Thompson took the podium. He walked through the past few weeks of the case, and said the families of the victims had only been interested in a plea agreement that saw Kohberger plead guilty on all counts and waive appeal on all of his motions, which would have "consumed years or decades in the future." The families of the victims were divided over the plea deal. Mogen's father told CBS News he was relieved to learn of the deal, saying it will allow his family to "actually put this behind us." The Goncalves family has bitterly criticized the agreement, and told CBS News after a gag order was lifted that they believe the plea deal gives Kohberger a chance to live a "better and more rewarding life inside" prison. Thompson said the deal was kept confidential until the last minute because officials did not want to taint a prospective jury pool if the case did proceed to trial. "Now, it is time for the judicial system to impose final judgement and close the door on this chapter of these tragedies," Thompson said. He asked that the judge sentence Kohberger to four consecutive life sentences in prison, one for each murder, and 10 years in prison on the burglary charge. As Thompson named each victim, their photo was shown in the courtroom. He also shared a group photo of the foursome. Crying could be heard in the courtroom as Thompson spoke. Kohberger declines to speak After Thompson spoke, Hippler asked the defense if they had evidence or an argument to present. The team said no. Hippler asked Kohberger if he would like to make a statement. "I respectfully decline," Kohberger said. It was the first time he spoke all day. Family members could be heard murmuring, "Surprise, surprise," and, "Coward." Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Jul 13, 2025; Wimbledon, United Kingdom; Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) hits a forehand against Jannik Sinner (ITA)(not pictured) in the gentlemen's' singles final of The Championships Wimbledon 2025 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images (Geoff Burke-Imagn Images) World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain was the latest star player to bow out of the upcoming National Bank Open on Tuesday, citing the need for physical and mental recovery. Alcaraz follows World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy, Serbian star Novak Djokovic, Great Britain's Jack Draper and Australia's Jordan Thompson, whose withdrawals were announced Sunday. "After many consecutive weeks of competition without rest, I will not be able to play in Toronto this year," Alcaraz wrote on X. "I have small muscles issues and I need to recover physically and mentally for what comes next. To the tournament and to my fans in Canada I am very sorry, I will see you next year!" The ATP Masters 1000 event is slated to be played July 27 through Aug. 7 in Toronto, and many elite players are skipping the tournament in order to prepare for the U.S. Open, which begins Aug. 25. Alcaraz, 22, won the French Open in June before losing to Sinner in the final at Wimbledon, where he was aiming for a three-peat. Sinner was the champion the last time the tournament men's singles draw was held in Toronto in 2023. Alexei Popyrin of Australia won the title last year in Montreal. World No. 3 Alexander Zverev of Germany is the top seed for the tournament, while No. 4 Taylor Fritz of the U.S. drew the No. 2 seed. On the women's side, Coco Gauff was named the No. 1 seed for the tournament being played in Montreal this year. Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek of Poland is No. 2. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus recently pulled out to get extra rest for the U.S. Open. --Field Level Media Melina Frattolin, the 9-year-old girl from Canada who police allege was killed by her father in Upstate New York, died in a drowning, an autopsy revealed. New York State Police announced on July 22 that Frattolin died from asphyxia due to drowning. The manner of death was ruled a homicide. The results of the autopsy, which was conducted at Glens Falls Hospital, are preliminary. A final determination and report are pending further laboratory testing, NYSP said. Frattolin was found dead in Ticonderoga on July 20, hours after her father, Luciano Frattolin, reported her abducted. He has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse in her death. It's unclear if he has an attorney. Melina Frattolin death: Missing girl found dead in NY; father charged What happened to Melina Frattolin? Melina Galanis Frattolin Luciano and Melina Frattolin, of Montreal, entered the United States on July 11 for a vacation and planned to return to Canada on July 20, police said at a press conference on July 21. On July 19 at around 5:30 p.m. local time, Luciano and Melina Frattolin were seen on video surveillance in Saratoga Springs. An hour later, the girl spoke to her mother on the phone and said she and her father were on route back to Canada, police said. Luciano Frattolin reported his daughter missing around 10 p.m. local time that night; he told authorities they were driving on I-87 in Lake George when he pulled over to urinate in a wooded area. When he returned to the vehicle, his daughter was missing, he said. The following morning, police activated an Amber Alert for the missing girl. Police later said, "there is no indication that an abduction occurred." At around 5 p.m. ET on Jul 20, police announced Melina Frattolin was found dead in Ticonderoga, New York, which is about 100 miles north of Albany by the Vermont border. Her body was found in the shallow portion of a pond in a wooded area, police said. Who is Luciano Frattolin? Luciano Frattolin has been estranged from his daughter's mother since 2019. Melina Frattolin lived full-time with her mother in Canada, police said. According to his LinkedIn, Luciano Frattolin is an entrepreneur. Before his arrest, he owned a coffee company, according to an archived website. He also owned a mining company, according to an Ethiopian newspaper. He is Ethiopian and Italian, according to his website bio. On his since-archived website, Luciano Frattolin called his daughter "the light of his life." "Melina has also taught Luciano to let go of his rigid tendencies to keep everything in 'perfect order'his love for Melinas messy art projects and chaotic ensemble of toys supersedes his love for a meticulously spotless home," the website said. Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for USA TODAY. She can be reached at melina.khan@usatoday.com. (This story was updated to include video.) This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Melina Frattolin, girl found dead in NY, drowned, autopsy reveals Getty Images / InStyle The flights are booked, and the accommodation is secured; all thats left to do is start creating your dreamy Instagram moodboard of European summer outfits. As the thoughts of spending sun-kissed days on the continent help many Americans get through the long and dreary winter, its no surprise that so many people are deadset on fulfilling their idyllic Euro fantasies before fall returns. Fashion, of course, has a big part to play in this. The visuals of your imagined European alter ego that spring to mind are a far cry from corporate core and the proliferation of grey, black, and beige that takes over your closet during the colder months. The mere prompt of European summer outfits brings to mind vivid and bright hues, maximalist patterns, mish-mashed accessories, and fabrics like crochet, linen, raffia, chiffon, lace, and silk that simply get nearly enough airtime closer to home. While each destination undoubtedly has its own varied and distinct style and vibe, the thing that most European locales have in common is the way their inhabitants dress with such effortless ease. Ahead of your next trip, weve prepared a packing guide to help you channel that laissez faire energywe bet you can even pull it off by taking a carry-on only. Pick Classic Prints Edward Berthelot/Getty Images) Passerby seen in Paris in June 2025. When your backdrop is a chic cityscape, gorgeous museum, or stunning chateau, dial up the elegance by wearing a timeless print. A faint polka dot on a flattering, demure dress is reminiscent of 1950s movie stars. But adding sleek and modern accessories, like a stiletto heel mule and puffy leather clutch, will keep you in present-day trend-setter territory. Go Glam for a Boat Day Darren Gerrish/WireImage Doina Ciobanu in Spain in May 2022. Head off into the horizon in a bell-sleeve cover-up mini dress, either in a fun print by Italian favorites Missoni or Pucci or in a solid block color. Team it with a silk headscarf and oversized shades for a true seaside serve. Opt for Simplicity When Sightseeing Edward Berthelot/Getty Images Gili Biegun seen in Paris in July 2025. Consider us convinced that the only accessory we need is an epic black fan. This streamlined white maxi dress ensemble is faultless for roaming around the cobbled streets, where your only care is where to stop for an aperitivo next. Embrace Color for Cocktails Darren Gerrish/WireImage Krizzy Doble in Spain in May 2022. You wear enough black year-round. When abroad, experiment with joy-inducing shades like emerald green, cobalt, orange, and red. Similarly, reach for fabrics and textures that you dont get to indulge in at home, like this shimmering woven mesh. A Silk Maxi is Always a Good Choice Christian Vierig/Getty Images Jessica Wang in Milan in February 2024. Not only is a body-hugging feather-light slip dress an easy-peasy thing to pack, youll be hard pressed to find an occasion it doesnt work for when in Europe. From weddings to impromptu cocktail hours, its a tried-and-true winner for a reason. Indulge in Romance 305pics/GC Images Kelsey Merritt in Paris in March 2025. For a long and leisurely evening meal when you want to feel both comfortable and polished, look for romantic details like lace and ruffles. This maxi silhouette is subtle yet sexy, and easy to sit for hours in. Pass the focaccia. Honor Your Surroundings Dave Benett/Getty Images Lashana Lynch in London in July 2025. Dont be afraid to lean into traditional tropes, such as clean lines and sophisticated sets. Whether youre attending a concert or a sporting event thats baked into the local culture, take cues from those around you as well as via iconic past images of the event. Its not cosplaying if you ace the assignment Monochromatic is Always Chic Jacopo Raule/Getty Images Lily James in Paris in Mach 2025. If a passerby in Paris or Milan looks impeccable in head-to-toe black, its usually because they keep the elements of the outfit interesting. Case in point: this genie pants and peasant blouse combo in vintage-style lace. Chefs kiss. Make a Statement Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images Karen Blanchard in Milan in September 2023. Whether its with a look-at-me tropical print or a daring cut (or both), Europeans arent afraid to be the center of attention. Channel their confidence and have fun with your summer style momentswhats the worst that can happen? Cool Vibes for Clubbing Daniele Venturelli/ Getty Images Gilda Ambrosio in Italy in July 2019. The most admirably-dressed people in Europe exude that je ne sais quoi quality. A lot of the time, its down to peoples knack for making even a fancy outfit look as easy as 1,2,3. Take this dancefloor-ready cocktail mini for example, a diamond necklace adds pizazz while lace-up flat sandals make it feel totally chill. Read the original article on InStyle This photo from the North Dakota Governor's Office shows a B-52 bomber from Minot Air Force Base in a flyover at the North Dakota State Fair on Friday, July 18, 2025, in Minot, N.D.. (North Dakota Governor's Office via AP) The evasive action an airline pilot took to avoid a B-52 bomber in the skies over North Dakota has focused attention on the way small airport towers are often run by private companies without their own radars. Neither one of the pilots of the bomber or of the Delta Air Lines jet seemed to know the other plane was there before the airline pilot saw the B-52 looming in its path. The incident last Friday is still under investigation. But the Air Force has said the controller at the Minot airport didn't let the bomber's crew know about the airliner, and the SkyWest pilot flying the Delta flight told passengers he was surprised. Passengers were alarmed by the sharp turn and dive the pilot of Delta Flight 3788 executed to avoid the bomber that had just completed a flyover at the State Fair in Minot, and a video shot aboard the plane captured the pilot's explanation afterward. Sorry about the aggressive maneuver. It caught me by surprise, the pilot can be heard saying on the video posted on social media. This is not normal at all. I dont know why they didnt give us a heads-up. This close call is just the latest incident to raise questions about aviation safety in the wake of January's midair collision over Washington, D.C., that killed 67 people. Here's more about the way small airports like Minot operate: Many small airports lack radar It is common for small airports across the country to operate without their own radar systems because it would be too costly to install them at every airport. But there generally aren't many problems with that. The controllers at small airports are able to guide planes in to land visually with binoculars and radios as long as the weather is clear. Aviation safety consultant Jeff Guzzetti, who used to investigate crashes for both the National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration, said if the weather is bad, a regional FAA radar facility may be able to help, but ultimately planes simply wont land if the weather is too bad. Sometimes small airport towers do have a video feed that gives controllers a view of a radar screen at an FAA facility miles away. Because the radar is so far away the display may not be as detailed about planes flying close to the ground, but the system does give controllers more information. It's not clear if the Minot tower has one of those systems because the company that runs it, Midwest Air Traffic Control Inc., hasn't responded to questions since the incident. The overlapping network of FAA radar facilities across the country also keeps track of planes flying between airports, and an approach control radar center in Minneapolis helps direct planes in and out of Minot before controllers at the airport take over once they see the planes. The Minot airport typically handles between 18 and 24 flights a day. That's how it works at many small airports. Most times it works just fine, Guzzetti said. Some of these small airports could gain radar as part of a massive overhaul of the air traffic control system, but that will depend on how busy the airports are and how much funding Congress ultimately approves for the multibillion-dollar project. So far, $12.5 billion was included in President Trump's overall budget bill. Private companies operate the towers The FAA says that 265 airport towers nationwide are operated by companies as part of the contract system. The Transportation Department's Inspector General has said the contract towers that handle more than one quarter of the nation's flights are more cost effective than comparable FAA towers and have similar safety records. In some cases, local governments help pay the costs of contract towers. The program began in 1982 at five less busy towers that had closed because of the air traffic controller strike the previous year, and it has expanded significantly over the years because it has been so successful. Most of the airports with contract towers would have no controllers without the program. Common sense would tell you that having an extra set of eyes controlling the local traffic especially in good weather would be safer than having no controller and just having the pilots talking to each other, Guzzetti said. Thats exactly how it works at the vast majority of the 5,100 public airports nationwide that are smaller than Minot. Pilots at those uncontrolled airports use their radios to coordinate takeoffs and landings with other planes in the area. Only about 10% of all airports have towers. The FAA says it works closely with the companies that run contract towers to ensure their controllers are properly trained. It is easier to get certified at a contract tower because they handle fewer flights than FAA towers even though controllers are held to the same standard. More controllers are needed nationwide The ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers has persisted for years partly because it takes so long to train and certify new controllers. The FAA has said that it is roughly 3,000 short of the number of controllers it should have at its facilities. The staffing situation at private towers is similar because they hire from the same pool of candidates. All the roughly 1,400 controllers at these smaller airports have to meet the same qualification and training requirements. But contract towers also have the ability to hire controllers who retired from an FAA tower before the mandatory retirement age of 56. The contract towers don't have a retirement age. The FAA has been working for a long time to hire more air traffic controllers to replace retiring workers and handle growing air traffic. But it can be hard to find good candidates for the stressful positions who can complete the rigorous training. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced several efforts to hire and retain more controllers. The FAA is trying to shorten the time it takes between when someone applies to the air traffic controller academy in Oklahoma City and when they start training, and the agency is also trying to improve the graduation rate there by offering more support to the students. The candidates with the highest scores on the entrance exam are also getting top priority. The FAA is also offering bonuses to experienced controllers if they opt not to retire early and continue working to help ease the shortage. Leila Register / NBC News WASHINGTON From raising the price of diapers for parents who recently searched for them online, to stores excluding regular customers from discounts because they are likely to buy the product anyway, companies are using personal data to set different price points for different people. The practice, known as surveillance pricing," has caught the attention of Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, who wants to ban it at the federal level. Personal data collection has become commonplace in the internet age, with major corporations farming information to tailor marketing and sales pitches specifically to individual consumers. But companies are now using location data, browsing history and demographic background to individualize prices. Casar believes this practice, which is often done using artificial intelligence, could stack the deck against consumers, leading to higher, uneven prices. The lawmaker, who leads the Congressional Progressive Caucus, told NBC News he wants to ensure that prices are set based on supply and demand and based on how much it costs to make and sell a thing, not based on spying on you and using your private data. The Stop AI Price Gouging and Wage Fixing Act of 2025, which Casar will introduce Wednesday, would prohibit the use of surveillance-based price and wage setting. The bill comes on the heels of a study by the Federal Trade Commission and as some states seek to ban surveillance pricing as well. Casar said there needs to be more transparency around the use of consumers data and artificial intelligence. His bill would also prevent the use of AI to set wages based on personal data, like an individual's financial history, rather than performance. AI is a developing part of our lives, part of our world, but we need to make sure that its used for good and not being exploited, he said. Were already starting to see that, and if we dont intervene now and ban these sorts of price gouging and wage suppression right now, then I think its just going to spread all over the economy. Casars legislation comes after the FTC released the initial findings of its study of surveillance pricing in January. That report, released just before President Joe Biden left office, found that a persons precise location or browser history can be frequently used to target individual consumers with different prices for the same goods and services. The FTC's findings are based on information it requested from eight companies that use consumer data when pricing products: Mastercard, Revionics, Bloomreach, JPMorgan Chase, Task Software, PROS, Accenture and McKinsey & Co. Lina Khan, who chaired the FTC under Biden, oversaw the study. It is unclear what the future of the FTC's role will be on this issue under the Trump administration, as the agency's call for public input on surveillance pricing was stopped when new leadership came in. One of the most pernicious aspects of surveillance pricing is that people may have absolutely no idea that theyre being targeted by it, Khan said in an interview with NBC News. Its a total black box. Khan said the technology is rapidly evolving, making it easier for companies to forecast how much a consumer is able or willing to pay without them knowing. Khan described surveillance pricing as the holy grail for companies looking to maximize profits in e-commerce. We have quickly slipped into an environment where companies now increasingly have the ability to do this based on just the enormous troves of personal data that are being collected about us, they have the incentive to do it," Khan said, adding that unless law enforcers and lawmakers are very clear about these practices being prohibited, companies will think its totally fair game. Casar noted that Delta Air Lines is one company that is integrating AI into its pricing. On an investor call this month, Delta president Glen Hauenstein said the airline's goal is to have a fifth of all its fares set by an artificial intelligence program, up from 3% currently. But the company disputed in a statement that prices would be set based on personal information. There is no fare product Delta has ever used, is testing, or plans to use that targets customers with individualized offers based on personal information or otherwise, the company said. Delta always complies with regulations around pricing and disclosures. While Casars legislation is the first at the national level, several state legislatures have attempted to take on the issue. For example, the New York Legislature passed and the governor signed legislation to require companies to disclose to consumers when a price is set by an algorithm using their data. Earlier this month, the National Retail Federation asked a federal court to block the New York law arguing that it would unfairly malign a system that helps merchants give customers lower prices and personalized offers. The California Assembly, meanwhile, passed a bill in May to stop businesses from using personal data when charging different prices for the same product. That legislation now heads to the California Senate. At the federal level, the House of Representatives is leaving for its August recess this week, so no action can be taken on Casars bill until September at the earliest. The congressman said he hopes to build a broad coalition of members of Congress against this, because I think this is the kind of issue that energizes people all across the country. Casar sees a surveillance price ban as an issue that could attract bipartisan support. I think thats the kind of thing that pisses off Democratic and Republican and independent voters alike, he said. You dont have to be a progressive Democrat to say these gigantic corporations in the tech world should not be spying on us and then using what they learn to put it into AI and make our life more expensive. WASHINGTON Democrats are prepared to respond in full to Texas Republicans' controversial redistricting proposal, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Suzan DelBene warned. "If they go down this path, absolutely folks are going to respond across the country," DelBene, a Democratic congresswoman from Washington, told reporters at a meeting July 23. "We're not going to be sitting back with one hand tied behind our back while Republicans try to undermine the voices of the American people." "Hopefully they won't go down this path," she added. Lawmakers in the Lone Star State are currently evaluating Gov. Greg Abbott's request to redraw congressional maps and make a handful of Texas' 38 districts more friendly to Republican candidates. The move follows the urging of President Donald Trump and comes as House Republicans hold a razor thin majority. Trump has said he hopes map adjustments could put as many as five Texas districts in play for the GOP, providing critical cushion in next year's elections when Democrats have precedent on their side. The party that does not hold the White House often has the advantage in midterm congressional elections. Texas Democrats have a slim toolbox to prevent Republicans from following through with their rare mid-decade redistricting effort. But beyond state borders, lawmakers and governors from blue bastions, including California and New York, have suggested an equal and opposite counterattack. California Governor Gavin Newsom holds a news conference at Downey Memorial Christian Church in Downey, California, on July 16, 2025. We can act holier than thou, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a July 16 press conference. We can sit on the sidelines, talk about the way the world should be. Or we can recognize the existential nature that is this moment. The coast-to-coast response has left the door open for other red states to jump in the mix. Missouri Republicans are pondering a plan to give their party a geographical leg up, Punchbowl News reported. Florida and New Hampshire are other Republican-led states where a mid-decade redistricting could be feasible. Ohio is mandated by their state constitution to reassess their map before 2026. In response to concerns about a tit-for-tat redistricting arms race, DelBene directed blame to Republicans in Texas: "They've already started down that path." Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA) speaks at a news conference after a meeting with the House Democratic Caucus at the U.S. Capitol Building on September 19, 2023 in Washington, DC. Democrats are also hoping that any shifts by the GOP in Texas will backfire. Moving reliably red voters into blue districts, they argue, could put incumbents in the districts they left at risk. "They should be careful what they ask for," DelBene said. "When they start playing with maps, they also change districts, and that will make a lot of Republicans vulnerable." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Democrats warn of full force response to Texas redistricting plan Clinica San Fermin in Celaya, Guanajuato, in 2022. (Noticias Telemundo) Despite all his years of experience and technical training, the doctors voice trembled when he recalled how organized crime groups have taken control of emergency rooms and medical facilities in some parts of Mexico. They force us to come in through threatening phone calls, in the early hours of the morning, and they tell us: Were just a few meters from where you live, and youre with your family. If you dont treat this person, were going to pick you up right here, said the doctor, who works at a health center in Guanajuato, in central Mexico, and who requested complete anonymity for fear of reprisal. In many regions of Mexico, organized crime attacks have affected hospitals, even taking over operating rooms and emergency rooms, where hitmen kidnap medical personnel to force them to treat the wounded in the frequent clashes they wage with other cartels. The doctor interviewed by Noticias Telemundo in Guanajuato claimed that, on one occasion, he was contacted in the early hours by a high-ranking local drug operative, who made an unusual request. I received a call requesting treatment for a person who had been shot by a firearm. And they arrived at the main entrances of the hospitals with long guns, demanding treatment for their patient, the doctor said. On several occasions, the doctor said, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel forced him to use his equipment to treat hitmen. Noticias Telemundo confirmed that both the local boss and the hitman whose life was saved later died in a confrontation with the Mexican army. For the safety of the doctor interviewed in Guanajuato, their names are being withheld. According to the United Nations International Narcotics Control Board, cartels and criminal groups continue to contribute to the high levels of violence in Mexico. Organized crime continues to be a key player in the lives of Mexicans. This is evident because some criminal groups have managed to force the Mexican state to lose control of certain territories, and because of the corruption and impunity that allow them to continue to reign and expand their capabilities, Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, co-director of the Terrorism, Transnational Crime and Corruption Center at George Mason University, said in an interview with Noticias Telemundo. So far, official data shows that from September 2024 to April 2025, there was a 32.9% decrease in the daily average of intentional homicide victims, falling from 86.9 victims per day to 58.3. However, disappearances increased significantly: In the first 100 days of Claudia Sheinbaums administration, 4,010 disappearances were recorded, an average of 40 per day, compared with the figure of 25 recorded during the previous six-year term. There are many missing people who, in reality, have already been kidnapped by drug traffickers and buried in so-called narco-graves, said David Saucedo, a security analyst based in Mexico City. The cartels are hiding the bodies, and thats why were seeing a reduction in homicides in several states across the country. But its not that there are fewer deaths; there are fewer bodies. Theyre hiding the bodies, Saucedo asserted. 'This shouldn't be normal' According to the latest report from the Mexican government, Guanajuato is the state with the most (980 from January to April 2025). In February 2025, the daily average reached 12.5. Last year, the National Survey of Victimization and Perception of Public Safety revealed that 87.5% of the population considered public safety to be the states most serious problem. In Guanajuato, the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel is fighting over drug trafficking with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and thats generating a lot of violence, Correa-Cabrera explained. These organized crime groups are fighting for control of spaces because they need more street space, there are more feuds, and thats leading to more injuries and deaths, so theyre taking control of medical centers. Noticias Telemundo visited Guanajuato to document the case of a health center in the city of Celaya, where wounded drug traffickers were treated. According to a state intelligence report, until three years ago, the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel used the San Fermin Clinic to treat its wounded hitmen. However, in November 2022, gunmen from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel killed two men there and set fire to the now-abandoned facility. The hospital where I work in Guanajuato isnt the only one thats suffered this, nor am I the only doctor whos experienced this. We see in the news that these people are arriving at certain public hospitals, the Guanajuato doctor said, adding that I can say that more colleagues have experienced this. One lives with anxiety, and this shouldnt be normal for us. Due to the strong presence of criminal groups, the Guanajuato state police have implemented operations in clinics and hospitals in several municipalities of the state, to prevent drug cartels from continuing to infiltrate those places. When people injured with a firearm arrive, the prosecutors office sends us a custody request. When these people arrive, we coordinate to provide security at the hospitals, said Bernardo Cajero, director of the Celaya police and in charge of these security operations. However, the Guanajuato doctor explained that although the Silver Code has been established in Mexico a protocol that requires authorities to be notified when there are episodes of violence or when a person with a gunshot wound arrives at a health center this is not always followed. They come and take our cellphones, cut us off from communication, and start threatening us, saying that if they see anything strange, they could hurt us themselves, the doctor said, with fear in his voice. One of the things theyre asking is that we not activate Code Silver and that we not notify the authorities. 'It affects us all' Although there are no official figures on armed takeovers of health centers, the Guanajuato case is not unique in Mexico. In April 2024, a 10-person armed group entered a private medical center in Cuernavaca and shot and killed a patient in intensive care. In September, gunmen threatened staff at the Mexican Social Security Institute in Mazatlan with the phrase If they die, you die, forcing them to care for their wounded. Two months later, two attacks were reported at the Culiacan General Hospital. What the drug cartels do is take over hospitals, kidnap nurses, doctors, specialists, blood banks, operating rooms, and whatever else they need. They are hospital centers where the wounded are seen and treated, so they can return to their criminal activities, Saucedo said. In 2022, a report by Insecurity Insight for the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition a group of nongovernmental organizations focused on protecting health care warned that Mexico had documented the most violent incidents against health care workers in Latin America: at that time, 14 recorded incidents, including three deaths, five kidnappings, two destroyed or damaged medical facilities and a damaged or looted medical unit. Before, they would leave their wounded in clinics, but then they would be finished off by rival groups, Saucedo said, now, for added security, many drug trafficking groups are setting up private hospitals for themselves. Saucedo and other experts cited as examples of this trend the complaints about the hospital built by the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, and the mobile clinic set up by the Sinaloa Cartels Ismael El Mayo Zambada. Researchers like Correa-Cabrera warn that these incidents also occur in other countries experiencing major security crises, such as Haiti, Ecuador and the Argentine city of Rosario, or in contexts of conventional warfare, such as the conflicts in Syria, Lebanon, Somalia and Libya, among others. This isnt something new; this is part of any armed conflict, low-intensity conflict, or war, Correa-Cabrera said, because health care for members of these warring groups is very important. Meanwhile, the Guanajuato doctor says the tension generated by these incidents, in which armed groups enter hospitals, is sometimes so great that medical staff request vacation time and psychological support. The first thing is to save that persons life, regardless of the situation or the accusations, because they are human beings, the doctor said, but it affects us all; it can cause trauma. In fact, there were colleagues who asked for their leave, and anyone would do that. Its normal when you live with that every day. An earlier version of this story was first published in Noticias Telemundo. Peacock (3) Love Island USA's Cierra Ortega has offered Us some mixed messages when it comes to her unfiltered reaction to ex Nic Vansteenberghe's romance with Olandria Carthen. Season 7 of Love Island USA, which premiered in June 2025, introduced Us to Nic on his search for love. He had a brief romance with Belle-A Walker before turning his sights to Cierra. Nic and Cierra explored their connection for the next four weeks in the villa until narrator Iain Stirling revealed shortly before the finale that she left the villa due to a personal situation. Cierras exit came after a resurfaced post from her social media showed her using a racial slur. Following offscreen backlash, Cierra was removed from Fiji similar to Yulissa Escobar, who was the first Islander to be removed from the villa earlier this season after clips of her using racial slurs on a podcast circulated online. With Nic single, he found himself forming a connection with Olandria, whom he previously had an attraction to but didn't explore due to their respective relationships in the villa. Nic left Fiji with Olandira in July 2025, later revealing whether he planned to reach out to Cierra. Love Island USA Stars Nic Vansteenberghe and Olandria Carthens Relationship Timeline It seemed like I was jumping from Cierra to Olandria, which is just not true. We were taking baby steps because we were both kind of having those strong connections, he told Us. It took longer than maybe what was perceived. We definitely took things at our own pace. Nic added: [When it comes to reaching out to Cierra] I'm still processing everything with what's happening. I need more time to think on it and go from there because it's been it's only been what a day? Cierra, for her part, issued an apology for her past use of a racist slur. In the weeks since, she has weighed in on where she stands with Nic and Olandria. Keep scrolling for what she said: Breaking Her Silence Ben Symons/Peacock (3) Cierra addressed the racism controversy that resulted in her removal from the villa in July 2025. After getting her phone back, Cierra subtly weighed in on Nic and Olandria coupling up by liking an Instagram post from Nics loved ones that featured various fan edits and behind-the-scenes photos of him and Olandria. "And so it was written in the stars," read the post's caption. Love Island USA Couples Status Check: Whos Still Together, Who Broke Up After Leaving the Villa? Offering Her Support While reminiscing on her short-lived Love Island USA journey, Cierra shared her highlights from Fiji. People, moments, and memories I'll cherish forever. This journey didn't end the way I hoped, but there was real connection, love, and growth in these moments," she wrote via Instagram while acknowledging that theres still so much more growing for her to do. And for that, I'll always be grateful. She concluded: "And for the #nicolandria nation ... they are two people I care deeply for and absolutely adore. I've always wanted nothing but happiness for each of them in this experience. that has never & will never change." Throwing Shade Ben Symons/Peacock (3) You look happier! Thanks, I booked a flight to Mykonos after surviving the villain edit on reality [TV] and I didnt end up with the guy who never actually liked me and wanted my friend the entire time, Cierra wrote via TikTok. By Nicole Jao, David French and Shariq Khan NEW YORK (Reuters) -California government officials are trying to find a buyer for Valero Energy's Benicia refinery near San Francisco, three sources familiar with the matter said, an unusual effort as the clock ticks down on the company's planned closure of the facility in April. The rare attempt by a state government to broker the sale of privately-owned infrastructure reflects its growing concerns over protecting fuel supplies in the most populous U.S. state and keeping a lid on prices, where California's nearly 28 million drivers already pay among the highest prices for gasoline in the country. California's effort to save the refinery from closing also marks a shift from the focus of government policy in recent years to champion green initiatives and restrict fossil fuel usage, that has led to an often tense relationship between the state and oil companies, including the second-largest U.S. refiner by capacity. The state's primary energy and policy planning agency, the California Energy Commission (CEC), has actively sought buyers for the plant, three sources told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations. The CEC declined to say whether it is engaged directly with buyers for the facility but acknowledged it is working to ensure the facility remains open. "CEC is engaging with market players to explore pathways for the continued operation of in-state refineries," the agency said in an emailed statement. Valero, which reports earnings on Thursday, did not respond to comment requests. Earlier this year, Valero announced its intention to cease operations by April 2026 at the 145,000-barrel-per-day San Francisco-area refinery amid worries about California's declining fuel supplies and high gasoline prices. The San Antonio, Texas-based refiner is also reviewing whether to continue operations at the rest of its refineries in California, including the 91,300-bpd Wilmington plant near Los Angeles. This comes after Phillips 66 said last October it will shut its Los Angeles-area refinery due to "market dynamics" and begin in October winding down operations at the 139,000-bpd plant. The two refineries, combined, produce roughly 17% of the state's gasoline supply. Their shutting, alongside other closures and refineries converted to produce renewable fuels, like Phillips 66's Rodeo facility last year, will leave California even more dependent on more expensive fuel imports that would further drive up prices. Average regular gasoline prices in California on Wednesday were $4.484 per gallon, the highest in the nation, according to industry group AAA. The average U.S. price was $3.155 per gallon. Studies by the University of California Davis and the University of Southern California said, respectively, the refinery closures could push average prices to $6 and $8 per gallon. BUYER UNIVERSE Industry experts have said getting an agreement in place by the planned April closure of Benicia could be difficult. A thorough sale process, including adequate time for bidders to do due diligence and negotiate an agreeable price, traditionally takes place over several months. Even once an agreement is reached, refinery sales typically take between three to six months to close. "It would be a pretty aggressive timeline to get it done," said Skip York, chief energy strategist at Turner, Mason & Co. Among the parties contacted by CEC about Benicia is HF Sinclair, a source said. The refiner and fuel distributor was in talks with Valero last summer about acquiring Benicia, but negotiations collapsed over an environmental issue at the plant, two people familiar with the matter said. HF Sinclair did not respond to requests for comment. The CEC has also contacted parties that have owned fuel-producing plants in Europe, a source said. The European Union's strict environmental standards would make them more agreeable to operating in California, multiple sources added. The state government's climate-first agenda has brought California into conflict with American energy companies, which have criticized state policies for creating difficult business conditions and pushing up pump prices. There have also been tensions between California's green agenda and the federal government. Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a congressional resolution to block the state's landmark plan to end the sale of gasoline-only vehicles by 2035. California and 10 other states have sued to challenge the repeal. California's energy regulator last month recommended new rules to encourage more private investment in fuel imports and a pause on refiner profit limits in response to Governor Gavin Newsom's call for reliable fuel supplies and a bid to save the struggling refiners in the state. Newsom's office declined to comment. (Reporting by Nicole Jao, David French and Shariq Khan in New YorkEditing by Marguerita Choy) Benjamin Mogen, father of Madison Mogen cries at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) BOISE, Idaho (AP) One after another, the friends and family of the four University of Idaho students killed in their home by Bryan Kohberger vented their emotions in sobs, insults and curses before a packed courtroom Wednesday as he was sentenced to life in prison. Ben Mogen, the father of Madison Mogen, credited her with helping keep him alive through his fight with addiction. He called her the only thing Im proud of. Dylan Mortensen, a roommate of the victims who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, called Kohberger a hollow vessel, something less than human. She shook with tears as she described how Kohberger took the light they carried into each room. Hell will be waiting, Kristi Goncalves, the mother of Kaylee Goncalves, told the killer. Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for first-degree murder in the killings of Mogen, Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary and assessed $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty weeks before his trial was to start in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Prosecutors and defense attorneys agreed on the sentence. Kohberger gives no explanation When it was his turn to speak in court, Kohberger said, I respectfully decline, shedding no light on why he slipped into the rental home in Moscow through a sliding glass door early on Nov. 13, 2022, and stabbed four of the students inside. I share the desire expressed by others to understand the why, Hippler said. But upon reflection, it seems to me, and this is just my own opinion, that by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency and we give him power. The crime horrified the city, which had not seen a homicide in about five years, and prompted a massive search for the perpetrator. Some students took the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. Kohberger, a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University, was arrested in Pennsylvania, where his parents lived, roughly six weeks later. A Q-tip from the garbage at his parents house and genetic genealogy was used to match Kohbergers DNA to material recovered from a knife sheath found at the home, investigators said. They used cellphone data to pinpoint his movements and surveillance camera footage to help locate a white sedan that was seen repeatedly driving past the home the night of the killings. But investigators told reporters after Wednesday's hearing that exhaustive efforts failed to find the murder weapon, the clothes Kohberger was wearing at the time or any connection between him and the students. Within hours of the sentencing, the Moscow Police Department posted hundreds of documents about the investigation on its website. They detailed how investigators processed the gruesome crime scene; ran down tips from people who claimed to have gone on a Tinder date with Kohberger or to have seen him walking along a highway; and tested soil and pollen found on a shovel in his car to see if they could narrow down where it had been used. Loved ones express loss and fury This world was a better place with her in it, said Scott Laramie, Mogen's stepfather. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Goncalves' father, Steve, taunted Kohberger for getting caught despite his education in forensics. You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, he said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Kernodle's father, Jeff, recalled that his daughter had not been feeling well that night and he thought about driving the 7 miles (11.3 km) to the rental home to be with her. He decided against it because he had been drinking. Mortensen and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks afterward. I slept in my parents room for almost a year and had them double lock every door, set an alarm and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Funke said in a statement read by a friend. Alivea Goncalves's voice did not waver as she asked Kohberger questions including what her sisters last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are, Alivea Goncalves said. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Chapins family did not attend. Kohbergers mother and sister sat in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Mogens grandmother said her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. ___ This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Dylan Mortensen's last name. ___ Johnson reported from Seattle. Brendan Carr, President Trumps Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair, mocked critics of Paramount and CBS over the networks decision to cancel The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The partisan lefts ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert is quite revealing, Carr, who posts frequently on social media, wrote Tuesday on the social platform X. Theyre acting like theyre losing a loyal [Democratic National Committee] spokesperson that was entitled to an exemption from the laws of economics. CBS said as it announced the shows cancellation last week the decision was a financial one, and subsequent news reports have suggested the show was losing upward of $40 million per year. Paramount has taken major losses on its linear broadcast assets in recent financial quarters and is currently trying to push through a multibillion-dollar merger with moviemaker Skydance. Colberts cancellation came just days after Paramount agreed to pay the presidents foundation $16 million to settle a lawsuit Trump brought against CBS last year. Democrats have alleged the company is trying to curry favor with Trumps FCC, and some lawmakers have indicated the media conglomerate might have violated federal bribery law with its recent moves. Colbert even called out his own network Monday evening, accusing the company of leaking financial information about the show to justify cutting him. Carr has long been a critic of mainstream media outlets and had previously indicated the 60 Minutes interview CBS aired with former Vice President Kamala Harris, which sparked Trumps lawsuit, could be grounds of a news distortion complaint. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 influx of illegal vapes that are appealing to children and teens has been making its way into the U.S. from China, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary warned in an interview Tuesday with ABC News. "[What] we have been doing is laughable," Makary told ABC News' Linsey Davis. Makary said that cracking down on illegal e-cigarettes would be a "top priority" for the agency moving forward. MORE: Inside the crackdown on a flashy new generation of illicit vapes popular with US teens "We're going to start confiscating and seizing. We're going to take this seriously," Makary said. A new generation of products, designed to help teens vape discreetly while attempting to evade parents and teachers, include vaping mechanisms concealed as backpacks, smartphone cases, highlighters and handheld video game consoles, law enforcement officials have told ABC News. "There is no approved vaping product in the United States that has a video game," Makary said while holding an illicit vape. "There is not an approved vaping product in the United States that has one of these cutie fruity flavors." Last month, U.S Customs and Border Protection seized roughly 2 million of the illegal products, with an estimated worth of nearly $34 million. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images - PHOTO: A teenager vapes in an undated stock photo. "This is just a small fraction of the seizures we have here," CBP official Eric Everson told Davis as they recently toured a facility of seized e-cigarettes. In just the first six months of 2025, CBP seizures had a domestic value of $60.3 million. "We're concerned about these vape shops that are popping up on every corner in America," Makary said. "Parents are not aware of what's being sold there." Only 39 e-cigarette products have been authorized by the FDA to be legally marketed in the U.S. -- all with menthol or tobacco flavorings. Makary told ABC News the FDA recently sent a total of 800 letters to retailers and distributors of vapes, warning them about selling unauthorized products. "Eighty-five percent of the vaping products sold in the vape stores are illegal according to the FDA's list," said Makary. "We don't even know what's in some of these [illegal] vaping products," he said. Goldman Sachs (GS) and the Bank of New York Mellon (BK) are teaming up to make it easier for institutional investors to trade money market funds 24/7 by using blockchain technology to "tokenize" the assets. The collaboration between the Wall Street investment giant and a 241-year-old bank founded by Alexander Hamilton is the latest example of how venerable financial firms are pushing further into the digital asset realm as the crypto industry gains more favorable regulatory treatment in Washington, D.C. Goldman Sachs and Bank of New York Mellon will use a proprietary tokenization platform developed by Goldman to maintain the record-keeping of select Bank of New York Mellon money market funds. Money managers BlackRock (BLK), Federated Hermes, and Fidelity Investments have also signed up for the launch. A Bank of New York Mellon office in New York City. (Reuters/David 'Dee' Delgado/File Photo) (Reuters / Reuters) Proponents see the value of putting money markets on blockchains as coming down to raw efficiency, where time and, therefore, costs of transferring interest-bearing cash instruments could be reduced. In that way, they serve the same purpose as interest-bearing, dollar-pegged stablecoins. A big use for these assets within the crypto world is via cryptocurrency exchanges that accept shares of tokenized money market funds as collateral for loans. "As the financial system transitions toward a more digital, real-time architecture, BNY is committed to enabling scalable and secure solutions that shape the future of finance," Laide Majiyagbe, BNY's global head of liquidity, financing, and collateral, said in a statement with the press release. Read more: Can you buy crypto with a credit card? See the pros and cons. Majiyagbe called the effort with Goldman Sachs "a first step." The company will not solely rely on a blockchain for record-keeping. Instead, BNY will still maintain the official books, records, and settlement for the funds within the current guidelines for money market funds. The attention for Goldman's tokenization platform, known as GS DAP, comes roughly half a year after the Wall Street bank announced its intent to potentially spin it out as a "an industry-owned distributed technology solution." That ambition is "still in progress," according to a Goldman Sachs spokesperson. The Goldman Sachs headquarters building in Manhattan. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (Spencer Platt via Getty Images) "We are excited about this strategic collaboration with BNY in our journey towards the longer-term vision," Goldman Sachs head of digital assets Mathew McDermott said of the tokenization platform in a statement with the press release. As of now, there are more than 40 tokenized money market funds, though most of them have less than $1 billion in assets, according to JPMorgan Asset Management's Teresa Ho Kim. BlackRock's $2.4 billion BUIDL fund represents roughly half of the nearly $5 billion market. Old Wall Street firms and newer players like Robinhood (HOOD), Coinbase (COIN), and Circle (CRCL) have all eyed the chance to tokenize a range of assets. One clear place where proponents have signaled they can reduce costs is in cash instruments. "It is shocking how much friction still exists with just cash. It's unbelievable. And the ability to just make that also be better, faster, cheaper, I think we all know there's a lot of opportunity there," BlackRock COO Rob Goldstein said last month while speaking about tokenization at a New York conference hosted by Coinbase. David Hollerith is a senior reporter for Yahoo Finance covering banking, crypto, and other areas in finance. His email is david.hollerith@yahoofinance.com. Click here for in-depth analysis of the latest stock market news and events moving stock prices Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance KOAA 5/YouTube Virginia Loop is not giving up her 3,000 square-foot greenhouse without a fight. Don't miss The Colorado-based Loop, who lives along Moss Rock Court on the northwest side of Divide, recently told KOAA News5 why she believes she doesn't need a permit for the structure she has sunk more than $150,000 into. Im not giving up on my dream So, what happened? In June 2024, Loop says a code enforcement officer showed up while she was excavating her property to install a greenhouse kit. She says she told the officer she didnt need a permit thanks to an exemption in the building code for agricultural structures. She sent him an email citing Colorados Farm Stand Act passed in 2019. She told Agweb the officer gave her a green light, "but said Id need to get a permit for the electricity when I put in electricity." Believing the matter was dealt with, she continued to construct the greenhouse and only got a permit for the electrical installations in May this year. Unfortunately for Loop, soon after she was slapped with a stop-work order. It wasnt for the electrical setup, but for constructing the greenhouse itself without a permit. I went to the planning and building department to file an appeal, Loop told KOAA News5. I brought the email from the code enforcement, and they said I needed to talk to the director. They pulled the first stop-work order so I could finish the electricity. We put $15,000 more electricity in the building. And then when that got inspected, they gave me another stop work order. Loop says she was building the greenhouse to grow produce for her neighbors and for her sons to sell at local farmers' markets. She says the county is overstepping. Im not giving up on my dream, she said to KOAA News5. Its not just for my greenhouse. Its for the rights of every person in Teller County. We have 27,000 residents in this county, and what Ive experienced at your building and planning department is nothing but overreach and a bully. Read more: You dont have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 heres how What do the authorities say? KOAA News5 obtained the official letter sent to Loop from the Teller County Administrator, which lays out the countys position including the following: The property is located in a residential zoning district; a commercial greenhouse is not allowed. The greenhouse doesnt qualify as a home occupation. The property is classified as residential by the Teller County Assessor, which disqualifies it from the agricultural exemption from building permits. The well is residential and may not be used for irrigation or commercial agriculture. Had Loop sought a permit from the County Building Department, the county argues, they would have learned that the size of their greenhouse far exceeds what might have been allowed and would have likely learned of the other problems/prohibitions on operating a commercial operation in her residential development in the R-1 zone. Loop says the Colorado Farm Stand Act supports her cause. According to the Act, a farm stand is defined as a temporary or permanent structure used for the sale and display of agricultural products resulting from agricultural operations that are conducted on the principal use site on which the farm stand is located. Teller County officials disagree, writing to KOAA News5 that the Act does not apply because her commercial greenhouse does not meet the definition of a farm stand in CRS 29-[31]-102(2). But Loop isnt budging. She told AgWeb, my greenhouse is a dual farm stand a place to sell and grow, and Im protected by this very state law. The countys letter laid out the next steps, instructing Loop to cease all commercial activity related to the greenhouse, remove the unpermitted structure and resolve water usage issues with the Colorado Division of Water Resources. Loop says water isnt an issue and that she trucks it in from a water fill station, not her residential well. While no legal action has been taken yet, the countys letter dated July 3 warns, You should be aware that if you fail or refuse to correct the violations, the County could take formal legal action against you to correct the violations. Loop is gearing up for a legal and public battle. Beyond zoning battles and legal gray areas lies a bigger issue: the sunk cost trap, and it could cost Loop everything. Avoid the sunk cost trap Loops situation is a textbook example of sunk cost, a financial principle where people continue to invest in a project simply because they've already sunk a big chunk of change into it. Despite repeated county warnings and legal risk, Loop is holding her ground, but dreams typically cant override local land use codes. Demolishing the greenhouse would be costly. Combined with the initial investment and legal fees, the total loss could be in the hundreds of thousands. Loops biggest mistake may not be building the greenhouse, but it could have been building before fully ensuring zoning and compliance. If shed applied through the proper channels for permits early on, her structure likely wouldve been denied. If Loop wants to salvage her investment or prevent a total wipeout, she could consider quickly pivoting. She could sell her current property to fund relocation to an area with proper zoning. If she wants to continue her dream of growing and selling food, she could figure out what is financially feasible for her and consider leasing greenhouse space or partnering with existing farms and agricultural cooperatives. This could offer lower capital risk, with direct access to existing markets. Every month Loop spends fighting rather than selling is another month of sunk revenue. And if the county forces demolition, the entire $150,000 investment and anything else shes poured into it may evaporate. The best course of action if youre in a similar situation is to get legal and zoning clarity before you invest. And if you hit a wall, run the numbers. Sometimes the smartest move is not to fight harder, but to pivot smarter. What to read next Money doesnt have to be complicated sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Death row inmate Richard Glossip on Feb. 19, 2021. (Oklahoma Department of Corrections via AP file) Former death row inmate Richard Glossip, who spent nearly 30 years on death row before the Supreme Court overturned his conviction earlier this year, may be released from prison today. Glossip, 62, will have his fate decided by a judge on Wednesday in Oklahoma City regarding his potential release. The former motel manager was convicted in 1997 of commissioning the murder of his former boss Barry Van Treese, the owner of a motel in Oklahoma City. Glossip has maintained his innocence. The Supreme Court threw out Glossips murder conviction in February because a key witness lied in court and prosecutors withheld information about him. Sheriff's deputies lead Richard Glossip into court on June 9 in Oklahoma City. (Sean Murphy / AP) The witness, Justin Sneed, admitted to killing Van Treese, but told prosecutors that the killing was at Glossip's direction in exchange for $10,000. Sneed, a motel handyman, received a life sentence for the crime, while Glossip was given the death penalty. In the Supreme Court's majority ruling, Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote that prosecutors "knew Sneeds statements were false" and that because Sneeds testimony was the only direct evidence of Glossip's guilt of capital murder, the jurys assessment of Sneed's credibility was necessarily determinative here." "Hence, there is a reasonable likelihood that correcting Sneeds testimony would have affected the judgment of the jury," she wrote. Glossips attorney, Don Knight, did not immediately return a request for comment. In February, he lauded the Supreme Courts ruling. "He had nine execution dates, three last meals, and obviously, to finally get relief has been huge for him, and hes thrilled beyond words, Knight said at the time. Since the ruling, Glossip has been removed from death row and held without bail in the Oklahoma County Detention Center. The courts ruling came several years after a group of bipartisan Oklahoma lawmakers championed Glossips innocence, commissioning an independent report in his defense. The 2022 report concluded that no reasonable jury hearing the complete record would convict Glossip of first-degree murder. The latest twist in Glossip's case came last month when Oklahoma State Attorney General Gentner Drummond said that he intends to pursue a new murder trial against Glossip on a first-degree murder charge. "While it was clear to me and to the U.S. Supreme Court that Mr. Glossip did not receive a fair trial, I have never proclaimed his innocence," Drummond said in a statement at the time. "After the high court remanded the matter back to district court, my office thoroughly reviewed the merits of the case against Richard Glossip and concluded that sufficient evidence exists to secure a murder conviction." Drummond added that he would seek a life sentence for Glossip rather than the death penalty. The state attorney general's office did not immediately return a request for comment. Former Gov. Roy Cooper has been a top recruit for Democrats in the North Carolina Senate race. (Nell Redmond / AP file) Former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper plans to launch a run for the Senate, according to two sources familiar with his plans, handing Democrats a top candidate in a state that will be central to the fight for the majority. Axios, which broke the news of Cooper's expected bid, reported that he is expected to officially enter the race next week, according to multiple sources. Morgan Jackson, Coopers top political adviser, would not confirm Cooper's plans but said Cooper would share more about his plans in the coming days. Cooper is also listed as a speaker at the North Carolina Democratic Party's Unity Dinner on Saturday. Democrats have long touted Cooper, 68, as a formidable candidate, given his record of winning statewide races in the perennial battleground state. North Carolina is one of the most competitive races in the country and Roy Cooper would be a force to be reckoned with if he enters the field, said Lauren French, a spokesperson for Senate Majority PAC, a Democratic super PAC aligned with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Democratic former Rep. Wiley Nickel launched a Senate bid in April, but its not clear whether hell stay in the race if Cooper jumps in. Nickel told Spectrum News that well cross that bridge when we get there when he was asked about the prospect that Cooper could run. Cooper was first elected governor in 2016 after having served four terms as the states attorney general. He defeated the Republican governor at the time, Pat McCrory, by around 10,000 votes even as Donald Trump won the state by nearly 4 points. Cooper won a second term in 2020 by 4 points, while Trump again carried North Carolina by 1 point. Term limits barred Cooper from running for a third term last year. Democrats all but have to win North Carolina to have any hope of netting the four seats they need to take control of the Senate next year, with Republicans defending a 53-47 majority. North Carolina and Maine are Democrats two best pickup opportunities, with former Vice President Kamala Harris having carried Maine last year and lost North Carolina by 3 percentage points. After those two states, Democrats would have to flip two more that Trump won by double digits while also holding on to their own seats in competitive states. The Republican field in North Carolina is in flux after Sen. Thom Tillis surprise announcement that he wouldnt seek re-election. Tillis had drawn Trumps ire for opposing the party's sweeping tax and spending bill, warning that cuts to Medicaid would harm North Carolinians. Republicans are watching to see whether Lara Trump the presidents daughter-in-law, former Republican National Committee co-chair and current Fox News host could run for the seat. She recently told NBC News that she plans to decide on a Senate campaign by Thanksgiving, saying the decision is especially weighty because of her young family. Other potential GOP candidates include RNC chair Michael Whatley, who previously led the state party in North Carolina, and Republican Reps. Pat Harrigan and Greg Murphy. FILE - The Norway, left, and US flags are seen on the table at the Pentagon, on Sept. 20, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) OSLO, Norway (AP) A former security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Norway has been indicted by prosecutors there on suspicion of espionage after he allegedly spied for Russia and Iran, state broadcaster NRK said Wednesday. The Norwegian man, whose name has not been made public, was arrested last November on suspicion of having damaged national security. He is accused of handing over details about the embassys diplomats, its floor plans and security routines, among other things, NRK reported. His defense attorney, Inger Zadig, said her client acknowledges the indictment's facts but denies any criminal guilt. At its core, this case concerns legal interpretation specifically, whether, and to what extent, the information in question was classified under the law, and whether it was capable of harming fundamental national interests, she wrote in an email to The Associated Press. If not, then sharing the information is not a criminal offense. Our client did not hold a security clearance, and his access to information that could threaten vital national interests was more or less non-existent. These issues will be thoroughly addressed in court. The broadcaster reported that America's ties to Israel and the war in Gaza prompted the man to contact Russia and Iran. The defendant faces up to 21 years in prison, NRK reported. The U.S. Embassy and the prosecutors office did not respond to AP's requests for comment. At the time of his arrest, the man had been studying for a bachelors degree in security and preparedness at Norways Arctic University, UiT. It is a second such case at UiT in recent years, according to NRK. One of the people the West swapped with Russia in a major prisoner exchange last year was a UiT guest researcher who claimed to be a Brazilian named Jose Assis Giammaria, arrested on espionage allegations in 2022. The police revealed him to be Russian, Mikhail Valeryevich Mikushin. Norway has a 198-kilometer (123-mile) long border with Russia in the Arctic. Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Norway has heavily restricted entry for Russian nationals. Last year, the Norwegian government said it was considering a plan to build a fence along all or part of its border with Russia. AMBLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 29: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro speaks during a campaign rally for Vice President Kamala Harris on July 29, 2024 in Ambler, Pennsylvania. Shapiro and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer campaigned to bring supporters behind Vice President Harris's campaign to protect Americans' freedoms, lower costs for families, and slam Trump's Project 2025 agenda. (Photo by Hannah Beier/Getty Images) (Photo by Hannah Beier/Getty Images) Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has been promoting his political messaging on social media and beefing up his communications team amid 2028 White House rumors, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported Wednesday. The size of Shapiros media staff has almost doubled since his predecessor, former Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, exited office in 2023, the Inquirer reported. The report comes amid mounting rumors that Shapiro is weighing whether to run for president in 2028. The battleground state governors communications, press and social media staff cost taxpayers a total of almost $3 million annually, according to the Inquirer. Meanwhile, 12 of these employees make over $100,000 annually, with some earning as much as $190,000 per year, the outlet reported. (RELATED: Rahm Emanuel Gives Megyn Kelly Biggest Hint About 2028 By Siding With Conservatives On Hot-Button Issues) Eric Epstein, founder of nonpartisan government watchdog group Rock the Capital, criticized the cost to taxpayers in a statement to the Inquirer, claiming that Shapiro should not be using tax dollars to promote his image and run for president. The governor should spend more time on the ground communicating to the legislature and get a budget done on time, Epstein told the outlet. PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA JULY 15: Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Dr. Neeli Bendapudi, President of Pennsylvania State University, speak at the inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit at Carnegie Mellon University on July 15, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jeff Swensen/Getty Images) However, Manuel Bonder, Shapiros press secretary, said in a statement provided to the Inquirer that the governors large media team is part of a push to communicate with Pennsylvanians more effectively. Bonder also said that Shapiro has held over 300 news conferences to communicate with Pennsylvanians directly since taking office. The governor believes there should be no wrong door to access state government, and the states top priority should be serving Pennsylvanians and meeting people where they are online, through efficient services, and in their communities, Shapiros press secretary told the outlet. Before former Vice President Kamala Harris ultimately tapped Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate for her failed 2024 White House run, Shapiro was rumored to be on Harris shortlist for the position. Harris is reportedly weighing whether to launch a bid for Californias governors mansion in 2026 or seek the White House again in 2028. Shapiro, who is Jewish, has drawn criticism over his support for Israel. Additionally, the Pennsylvania previously faced backlash over his offices handling of a sexual harassment complaint made against one of his former aides, CBS News reported in August 2024. In March, Shapiro was asked about whether he intends to run for president in 2028 during an appearance on HBOs Real Time with Bill Maher, to which he responded he was not an expert on Washington, D.C. stuff. Im not an expert in the D.C. stuff, Shapiro told Maher. I live in the real world in Pennsylvania, where we have to balance budgets. Michael Coard, a Philadelphia-based lawyer and columnist, told left-wing magazine Mother Jones in an interview published in August 2024 that Shapiro is a political chameleon who changes his colors as the situation calls for. Ive never seen Shapiro out front on any political issue, Coard told the outlet. It seems to me that hell wait to see how the wind blows. Shapiros office did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundations request for comment. All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporters byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org. Editor's note: Eliotte Heinz was found dead. Follow here for updates. Authorities in Wisconsin are searching for a missing graduate student who has not been seen or heard from since leaving a bar early Sunday, July 20. La Crosse police are asking the public to help find Eliotte Heinz, 22, after she was seen around 2:30 a.m. local time on July 20 at Bronco's Bar, according to Viterbo University, where she studied mental health counseling. Police said Heinz was last spotted walking south on the 500 block of Front Street South at about 3:22 a.m. Authorities, along with Heinz's family and friends, have made several attempts to locate her with no success, according to police. Heinz is 5 feet 4 inches tall with blonde hair and blue eyes, police said, adding that she was wearing a white T-shirt and jean shorts at the time of her disappearance. Pictured is Eliotte Heinz, a missing Viterbo University graduate student who has not been seen since Sunday, July 20, 2025. Where is Bronco's Bar? Viterbo said Heinz was last seen soon after leaving Bronco's Bar in La Crosse, a city near the Wisconsin-Minnesota border, about 150 miles southeast of Minneapolis. Viterbo University coordinates search efforts for Eliotte Heinz Viterbo University is assisting authorities in the search for Heinz, with the school announcing in a Facebook post on Tuesday morning, July 22, that it needs volunteers to help find the missing student. In the social media post, the private university in La Crosse said the public can help by joining the search and sharing posts on social media. "Every share, every prayer, and every helping hand matters," the school's post reads. Family calls for any related video: 'Anything at all' Pictured is Eliotte Heinz, a missing Viterbo University graduate student who has not been seen since Sunday, July 20, 2025. Amber Heinz, Eliotte Heinz's mother, spoke during a news conference on Monday, July 21, where she asked the public to please share all footage they have of her daughter from the night of her disappearance. "We ask if you have seen anything, even if it's small, anything at all, you please call La Crosse Police Department," Amber Heinz said. "If you have Ring cameras and you think you might have captured an image of Eliotte, please call, let them take an image of your footage." Any related footage could end up being a "really big deal" for the search, Amber Heinz said. In response to the support in the ongoing search for Heinz, Viterbo University shared a statement from her family on its Facebook page. On behalf of our entire family, thank you," the statement reads. "The outpouring of support in the search for Eliotte has been overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and encouragement from the community and beyond." The family added that the best thing the public can do to help is share Heinz's information on social media, hand over any helpful security camera footage to police, and donate to support the volunteers or the missing graduate student's parents. Contributing: Drake Bentley, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Eliotte Heinz, 22, missing after leaving bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin A hiker was rescued after reportedly getting attacked by a brown bear along a trail in Alaska, according to the Anchorage Fire Department. On Tuesday at approximately 3 p.m., officials responded to 911 calls from a hiker "reporting they were mauled by a bear and needed help as soon as possible," the fire department said in a statement. The attack occurred about two miles up the Dome Trail in Anchorage, the local police department confirmed to ABC News. The female hiker -- who has not been identified by officials -- reported that she "could not get out" on her own "due to injuries sustained in the mauling," the fire department said. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images - PHOTO: A Grizzly bear in Anchorage, Alaska. The woman provided directions to her location on the trail and remained on the phone with officials while they scanned the area to locate her, according to police. Firefighters and paramedics responded to the scene, with drones deployed to help find the hiker, according to officials. Once she was located, she was rescued with a helicopter and transported to a local hospital with "what we believe to be non-life-threatening injuries," police said. MORE: 89-year-old man and dog killed in bear attacks in Florida: Officials Police told ABC News the hiker is in stable condition as of Wednesday and that, at this time, they "will not be sharing her name with the public." The brown bear ran off after the incident, the fire department noted in its statement. As of Tuesday night, Alaska Fish & Game was still trying to locate the bear. Officials said hikers in Anchorage are "encouraged to file trip plans with friends or family prior to trekking off into the great outdoors" and recommend people leave a copy of their trip plans underneath their vehicle's windshield. Anchorage Fire Department - PHOTO: A hiker was rescued after reportedly getting attacked by a brown bear along a trail in Alaska, according to the Anchorage Fire Department. "Information regarding your planned route can be invaluable as we try to locate you in case of an emergency," the fire department said. With both black and brown bears living within the municipality of Anchorage, the local parks and recreation department provides tips to keep in mind while recreating in any park or trail in the area, including to remain in groups, make noise, carry bear spray, leash all dogs and to never run from a bear. "Stop, group up, talk to the bear and let it know you are human," Anchorage Parks and Recreation said on its website. According to the National Park Service, the majority of bear attacks occur not because the animal is hunting a human, but when it feels threatened or is protecting its young. The only exception is if the bear is "suffering from very severe starvation," the NPS said on its website. How the Hugo Spritz Became the Drink of Summer 2025 Youre traipsing downtown on a humid summer evening when you pass a group of friends gathered on a restaurant patio. As they clink their chilled glasses, you realize that their sloshing bevvies arent an eye-catching bright orange theres not an Aperol Spritz in sight. Instead, these revelers are all sipping pale, bubbly concoctions that look a bit like something youve seen on Instagram. In 2025, you may have noticed that a new, refreshing libation has taken restaurants, beach bars, and your TikTok feed by storm: Meet the light, fresh, and floral Hugo Spritz. Well cover the appeal of the drink, why its star is rising, and how you can make one for your next happy hour. What is a Hugo Spritz? So whats actually in a Hugo Spritz? Our very own Katie Couric couldnt have explained it better. In a recent post on her Substack, she wrote, a Hugo is billed as a refreshing, floral, and slightly herbaceous Italian aperitif, made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, soda water, and mint, with a jaunty lime wedge and a sprig of mint for good measure. If you arent a fan of Aperol, the Hugo is a much more crowd-pleasing alternative: St-Germain, the elderflower liqueur that Katie mentions, is gently floral, rather than bitter. Prosecco contributes a mildly fruity aroma with a crisp finish, while mint adds a cool, refreshing quality to the drink. A splash of soda water keeps it light and sessionable, making it the ideal aperitivo for long summer afternoons elegant, easy-drinking, and effortlessly charming. Why is the Hugo Spritz trending in 2025? Despite its recent popularity, the drink isnt exactly a new invention; it dates back to 2005, when Italian bartender Roland Gruber mixed it up as a fun alternative to an Aperol Spritz. So, during those early days in South Tyrol, it was more of an if you know, you know situation, and its international spread was slow. I learned about this cocktail when somebody ordered it a few years back, veteran bartender Johan Hagstrom tells us. I only made one or two after that. But this summer, things have changed: A few months ago, I started getting more and more orders. Hagstrom points out that the Aperol Spritz made a mega-splash after being featured in the second season of The White Lotus. Although the Hugo hasnt been name-dropped in a hit show or splashed across the big screen, its benefiting from the spotlight that has been shining on its more divisive friend. As Aperol became a pop culture fixture from Euro-summer scenes in prestige dramas to influencer posts on Italian coastlines many drinkers sought a similar but more approachable alternative. The folks at Business Insider also suspect the Hugo tagged along on Aperols rise to stardom it seems like the two bubbly, European bevvies may be perpetually linked as alternatives to each other, in a Britney-Christina or Coke-Sprite fashion. But the Hugo isnt completely riding its relatives coattails: Its also hugely attractive to influencers. The drink has striking visual appeal its delicately pale, fizzy, and garnished with fresh herbs, which makes for a pretty perfect Instagram post. St-Germain has leaned into that vacation-ready aesthetic: In 2025, they featured Game of Thrones actress Sophie Turner in a campaign emphasizing the easy, breezy, Euro sensibilities of the drink. In the ad, Turner mixes up the cocktails on short notice for a romantic rendezvous, emphasizing effortless elegance all the while. Business Insider also spoke to Paige Leyden, associate director of foodservice, flavors, and ingredients reports at marketing agency Mintel. Leyden told them that the Hugos ease and elegance is a relatively cheap reprieve from everyday life: Travel is expensive, but there is that level of escapism when you can just go to a nice bar and sit outside and have this drink. You might not be on the picturesque Mediterranean coast, but youre still kind of emulating that. Want to embark on your own getaway? Check out Hagstroms straightforward TikTok tutorial for the drink. He also includes some professional cork-popping advice that you may need. And if the ingredients arent really your jam, dont worry about feeling left out of some worldwide St-Germaine craze: People arent asking for St-Germain cocktails just the Hugo, Hagstrom clarifies. In fact, despite the Hugo Spritzs newfound popularity, most bar patrons arent afraid to stick to what they know. The espresso martini is still the constant order at our bar, Hagstrom explains. Hey if it aint broke, dont fix it. The post How the Hugo Spritz Became the Drink of Summer 2025 appeared first on Katie Couric Media. Female Ruby-Throated Hummingbird feeding the chicks in the nest. Agnieszka Bacal/Shutterstock.com One of the tiniest birds plays a surprisingly large role in conservation advancement. Hummingbirds are beloved by many. Because the public is so fond of these gorgeous little birds, they help draw necessary attention to other, lesser-known species. The broad-tailed, rufous, and calliope hummingbirds are all ambassadors of conservation, highlighting the decline of bird populations across the U.S. They help emphasize ongoing threats such as habitat loss, climate-related food shortages, and pesticide use. Since one-third of North Americas bird species are experiencing decline, the unique public service hummingbirds provide is more important today than ever. Before we dive into where hummingbirds nest, lets first take a closer look at these amazing creatures. Hummingbirds are small, colorful birds known for their incredible ability to hover in mid-air by fluttering their wings up to 80 times in one second. They have long, thin beaks that allow them to reach deep into flowers and extract nectar with ease. Hummingbirds come in a variety of colors and patterns depending on the species. Some common colors include green, red, blue, and purple. Their feathers are incredibly soft and iridescent, giving them a stunning, shimmering effect when they fly through the sunlight. Overall, hummingbirds are truly remarkable birds that captivate us with their unique abilities and beautiful appearances. This post was updated on July 23, 2025 to include information on how hummingbirds aid conservation efforts. Where Do Hummingbirds Nest? Florence-Joseph McGinn/Shutterstock.com Hummingbirds are known for their unique nesting habits, with females responsible for building. These tiny birds typically construct their homes on slender branches, which often descend from deciduous trees like hornbeam, oak, birch, poplar, or hackberry. However, they also occasionally nest in pine trees. The height at which hummingbird nests are built is also noteworthy, as they usually prefer to nest 10-40 feet above the ground. This distance provides safety from predators that could harm their offspring. Interestingly, hummingbirds have been known to build their nests in unconventional locations, such as loops of chains or wire and even extension cords! They seem to be quite adaptable when it comes to finding ideal spots for nesting. Understanding how they adapt and survive in different environments only adds to our appreciation of these fascinating birds. Nest Material and Construction A female Annas Hummingbird is collecting nesting material. Devonyu /Shutterstock.com Hummingbirds are known for their agile flight, vibrant colors, and unique characteristics. One of the most intriguing aspects of hummingbirds is their nesting behavior. Unlike other birds that build nests in a fork or crevice, hummingbirds prefer to build their nests directly on top of a branch. The nest construction process takes approximately 6-10 days and results in a small structure measuring only about 2 inches across and 1 inch deep. However, despite their compact size, these tiny structures provide safety and comfort to hummingbird chicks during their early stages of life. To create this perfect little home for her young ones, the female uses thistle or dandelion down held together by strands of spider silk. She may also use pine resin as an adhesive to help hold everything together more securely. She further shapes the nest by pressing and smoothing it between her neck and chest using gentle movements until she achieves a rim thats perfectly shaped. To finish off this work-of-art, which serves as both a safe haven and nursery, she delicately places bits of lichen or moss around its perimeter, likely serving as camouflage against natural predators. Once the basic structure is complete, the female hummer stamps on the base of the nest to stiffen it while leaving enough flexibility for future growth. The walls remain pliable so they can expand as needed when chicks begin hatching. Baby Hummingbirds Baby hummingbirds need a high-protein diet. sen yang/Shutterstock.com Newly born birds are called hatchlings, chicks, or nestlings. Can you imagine anything cuter than a newborn hummingbird? Baby hummingbirds emerge from their eggs with their eyes shut and almost no feathers. Their skin is either pink or grey, and they are very tiny, normally lighter than a dime. Their feet are so small that they cannot stand, making them completely reliant on their mothers for food and heat. It usually takes about three weeks for the chicks to acquire a full set of feathers. Hummingbird chicks need an abundance of insects and nectar for their rapid development and to build strong bones and beaks. The mother provides these nutrients to her young multiple times per day by regurgitating food into their mouths. Mom will keep feeding them until they are around one month old, or even up to 60 days in some tropical hummingbirds. After that, they are on their own. Taking Flight Some hummingbirds migrate from North America to Mexico. Ramona Edwards/Shutterstock.com Hummingbirds are known for their incredible flying abilities, which they begin honing at a very young age. Baby hummingbirds begin exercising their wings when they are just two weeks old in preparation for their first flights. This is an important milestone in the life of a baby hummingbird as it marks the beginning of its journey toward independence. Once baby hummingbirds are ready to fly, they leave the nest in a process called fledging. Fledging can be a dangerous time for baby birds as they have yet to master their flying abilities and may make mistakes that could put them at risk. However, with practice and persistence, most baby hummingbirds quickly become adept flyers. Incredibly, within just one month (or up to two months for some) after hatching, these tiny birds become completely independent from their parents. They no longer rely on them for food or protection and instead must fend for themselves in the wild. For migratory species of hummingbirds like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird that breed in North America but winter in Central America or Mexico, this newfound independence means preparing for an epic journey southward. These young birds must find enough food along the way to fuel their long flight while avoiding predators and adverse weather conditions. When To See Them Fledgling hummingbirds stay close to the nest. Cliff LeSergent/Shutterstock.com Hummingbirds typically have their babies during the spring and summer months when flowers are in bloom and nectar is abundant. The nesting season can vary depending on the species of hummingbird and the geographic location, but it generally begins in March or April and lasts through August or September. If youre hoping to spot a hummingbird chick, keep an eye out for nests that are located high up in trees or shrubs. Female hummingbirds construct their tiny nests using materials such as spider webs, plant fibers, and moss. They may lay anywhere from one to three eggs at a time, which hatch after about two weeks. If you want to see baby hummingbirds in action, your best bet is to keep an eye out during the spring and summer months when these tiny birds are actively nesting and raising their young! Do Humming Birds Return to the Same Nest and Feeder Every Year? Within one to two months from birth, hummingbirds take flight. Freebilly Photography/Shutterstock.com Migratory hummingbirds often return to the same area annually, but not the same nest. Female hummingbirds build nests for one-time use, constructing a new one each year. Interestingly, they usually build their new homes in the vicinity of their previous ones, such as in a neighboring tree. As tiny creatures of habit, hummingbirds also visit the same feeders each year. Where To See Them Hummingbirds live across much of the continent, from Alaska to Florida and even parts of Canada. They can be found in most states. However, its worth noting that while many states have migrating populations, only a few provide permanent nesting habitats for these tiny birds. Some states with high populations of hummingbirds include Arizona (with 18 different species!), California (14), Texas (20), New Mexico (17), and Florida (12). Alaska, Kentucky, and Maine have four types of hummingbirds, Indiana has 3, New Hampshire and Vermont have 2, and North Dakota and Rhode Island are only home to the ruby-throated hummingbird. Hawaii is the only state that has never recorded a hummingbird species. Whether youre an avid birdwatcher looking to spot a new species or just curious about these brightly colored creatures, knowing where hummingbirds nest will be helpful when planning your next birding trip! The post Hummingbird Nesting 101: How These Tiny Birds Bring New Life into the World appeared first on A-Z Animals. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said during a recent interview that the U.S.s strikes last month destroyed Tehrans nuclear facilities and that the country will not refrain from continuing to enrich uranium. It is stopped because, yes, damages are serious and severe. But obviously we cannot give up [on] enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride, Araghchi told Fox Newss Bret Baier. Araghchi later added that the facilities have been destroyed. Irans foreign minister, in an interview on Special Report with Bret Baier, said Iran will be able to rebuild the facilities, insisting that Tehran would not pause enriching uranium. If the goal is to make sure that Iran will never have nuclear weapons, that is achievable, Araghchi said. President Trump and other administration officials have claimed that U.S. military strikes on June 21 completely destroyed Irans three nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. A recent intelligence assessment, which was reported by multiple news outlets last week, said that the nuclear facility in Fordow was mostly destroyed, but the ones in Natanz and Isfahan were not and could potentially resume uranium enrichment. Apart from the White House, the Defense Department (DOD) has also pushed back against the intelligence report, saying that the June attacks, carried out by B-2 bombers and Tomahawk cruise missiles, obliterated all three sites. DODs chief spokesman Sean Parnell said to reporters earlier in July that the Pentagons assessments indicated that Irans nuclear program was set back by one to two years. Israel initially attacked Iran on June 13, which led to a 12-day war between the two countries. A ceasefire was reached on June 24. Prior to the conflict, the U.S. and Iran completed five rounds of nuclear talks, although the two countries did not reach a deal. Trump pulled out of a former President Obama-negotiated deal in 2018. It is developed by ourselves. It is an achievement by ourselves. The technology is there. The scientists are there, the people who have run these facilities are there. Buildings can be rebuilt. Facilities can be rebuilt. Machines can be replaced, Araghchi said. I think the recent attack proved that there is no military option for our nuclear program, the foreign minister 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. A federal judge in Florida denied one of three Justice Department requests to unseal grand jury records tied to federal investigations into Epstein, according to a public order released Wednesday. The request is one of three made by the Justice Department to judges in New York and Florida seeking to unseal records from federal investigations into Epstein. New York State Sex Offender Registry via AP - PHOTO: This photo provided by the New York State Sex Offender Registry shows Jeffrey Epstein, March 28, 2017. According to the order by District Judge Robin Rosenberg, the records the department sought to unseal related to grand juries convened in West Palm Beach in 2005 and 2007 that had investigated Epstein. MORE: Judge overseeing DOJ Epstein grand jury records request asks for more information Judge Rosenberg faulted the Justice Department for failing to outline sufficient arguments to justify the unsealing of the records, which are normally protected under strict secrecy rules. Rosenberg's opinion states her "hands are tied" given existing precedent in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals which only permits the disclosure of such grand jury materials under narrow exceptions. She further denied a request to transfer the issue into the jurisdiction of the Southern District of New York, where two judges are separately mulling over similar motions from the department seeking to unseal grand jury records tied to Epstein and his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell. A Justice Department spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the order. Meanwhile, a federal judge in New York denied Ghislaine Maxwell's request to review grand jury testimony related to Epstein. "It is black-letter law that defendants generally are not entitled to access to grand jury materials," U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer wrote. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images, Files - PHOTO: Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks during a news conference with President Donald Trump in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House, June 27, 2025, in Washington. Maxwell's lawyers requested access to the sensitive grand jury records to determine if Maxwell would take a position on the records' release. Judge Engelmayer wrote that there is no "compelling necessity" for Maxwell to review the records. An objection from Maxwell into unsealing the records could further complicate the process of potentially releasing the records. "She has not shown, or attempted to show, that the grand jury materials in her case are apt to reveal any deficiency in the proceedings leading to her indictment," he wrote. Judge Engelmayer noted that he plans to "expeditiously" review the transcripts himself and would consider providing an excerpt or synopsis to Maxwell's lawyers. Israeli activists take part in a protest against the war in the Gaza Strip, Israel's measures regarding food distribution and the forced displacement of Palestinians, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) More than 100 charity and human rights groups say Israels blockade and ongoing military offensive are pushing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip toward starvation. Israeli strikes meanwhile killed another 21 people overnight and into Wednesday, according to local health officials. The Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected the groups' criticism and accused them of echoing Hamas propaganda. The Trump administrations Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff was set to meet with a senior Israeli official about ceasefire talks, a sign that lower-level negotiations that have dragged on for weeks could be approaching a breakthrough. Israels war in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack, has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its count doesnt distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. Here is the latest: European diplomats say EU deal with Israel over Gaza aid is falling short Israel is far behind on its commitments under the new deal with the European Union, frustrating many within the 27-nation bloc, three European diplomats said Wednesday. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive material. Only 132 aid trucks and 80-120,000 liters of fuel have gotten into Gaza in the week since the deal was reached, two of the diplomats said. Member states are urging the EU to pressure Israel to allow more aid. An internal EU report seen by The Associated Press highlighted concerns that there is still no tangible increase, with important stocks of relief items stuck and piling up at the borders. Details of agreement remain murky, even to EU nations. By Sam McNeil in Jerusalem Palestinian Authority says a teen is killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank The Palestinian Authoritys Health Ministry says a 14-year-old Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli forces near Jenin in the northern West Bank. Ibrahim Hamran is the second teen to have been killed by Israeli forces in as many days. The ministry said Ibrahim Nasser, 16, was killed near Jenin on Tuesday. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Violence has surged in the Israeli-occupied West Bank during the war in Gaza. White House says Mideast envoy is headed to Europe White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that Witkoff would meet with key leaders from the Middle East to discuss the ceasefire proposal and release of hostages. We want this ceasefire to happen as soon as possible and we want these hostages to be released, Leavitt said. UN says the agency helping Palestinian refugees known UNRWA will soon run out of money Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari told the U.N. Security Council that current forecasts show insufficient funds to sustain operations beyond 2025. UNRWA was established in 1949 to aid Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The agency provides health and education services to around 2.5 million Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and east Jerusalem, and helps 3 million more in Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric urges donors to contribute, emphasizing the agencys critical role. UN defends humanitarian agencys 'professionalism and impartial work in Gaza U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric says Israels actions against the Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs will only hinder efforts to held Palestinians facing hunger and displacement. Earlier, Israels U.N. ambassador accused OCHA of bias and claimed some staff are linked to Hamas. He also demanded a retraction of the agency head's statement allegedly accusing Israel of genocide. Dujarric clarified that U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher never made such a statement, and said the U.N. would investigate any evidence Israel provides regarding alleged Hamas affiliations among U.N. staff. Israeli strike in central Gaza kills at least 8 and wounds 57 Awda Hospital, which received the casualties, said the strike hit a densely populated part of the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp. Greta Thunberg accuses Israel of genocide and starving Palestinians in Gaza The climate campaigner spoke Wednesday at a small rally in the main square of Albanias capital, Tirana. If watching children at being systematically starved, over two million people being systematically starved by Israel, is not enough to motivate you to get out of the couch, then what is it going to take? Thunberg said. She said the international community is complicit due to its silence regarding Israels wartime conduct, and called for continuing worldwide protests for a free Palestine." The Israeli military detained Thunberg and 11 other activists last month on board Gaza-bound aid ship that aimed to break Israels blockade. Muslim authority removes post accusing Israel of genocide Gaza Egypts Al-Azhar, a leading authority in Sunni Islam, has deleted a lengthy online post in which it accused Israel of starving Gaza and committing a full-scale genocide. It said that it had courageously removed the post to avoid jeopardizing ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Political and religious authorities across the Arab and Muslim world have condemned Israels wartime conduct. Egypt, a close U.S. ally that made peace with Israel decades ago, has served as a mediator in long-running ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. A case has been brought before the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide, and rights groups have lodged similar allegations. Israel vehemently rejects the accusation, calling it a blood libel. UN says war in Gaza is catastrophic for new mothers and babies The United Nations agency for reproductive health says new data shows a major decline in births and a rise in maternal deaths in the Gaza Strip. UNFPA says 17,000 births were recorded in the first half of this year, down 41% from the corresponding period in 2022. It also showed 220 stillbirths, more than 20 times the number recorded three years ago, before the Israel-Hamas war. It says 33% of babies around 5,560 were born prematurely, underweight or required intensive care. The scale of suffering for new mothers and their babies in Gaza is beyond comprehension, said Laila Baker, Regional Director for the Arab States at UNFPA. The war has gutted Gazas health system, with several hospitals having shut down or reduced their operations because of Israeli raids and lack of medical supplies. ___ This item has been corrected to show that the figure of 220 refers to stillbirths, not maternal deaths, after UNFPA corrected its statement. Israels parliament backs symbolic motion to annex the West Bank Knesset lawmakers voted 71-13 in favor of the measure, which calls for applying Israeli sovereignty to Judea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley, the biblical terms for the area. The motion, advanced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition, is declarative and has no direct legal implications, although it could place the issue of annexation on the agenda of future debates in the parliament. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war, along with the Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem. The Palestinians want all three for a future state. Some 3 million Palestinians and over 500,000 Jewish settlers live in the West Bank. Annexation of the West Bank could make it impossible to create a viable Palestinian state alongside Israel, which is seen internationally as the only realistic way to resolve the conflict. Last year, the Israeli parliament approved a similar symbolic motion declaring opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israel's ambassador accuses UN humanitarian agency of bias Israel has accused the United Nations' humanitarian agency of bias and defamation in Gaza and announced new actions Israels U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday that hundreds of employees of the Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, known as OCHA, are now undergoing security vetting. He claimed Israel has uncovered clear evidence of Hamas affiliations within OCHAs ranks and said key employees will not have their permits renewed, and international staff will have their visas cut to just one month. Danon accused UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher of abandoning his sacred responsibility to act without bias and demanded that he retract his statement that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. He said Jonathan Whittall, who heads OCHA in the Palestinian territories, must leave Israel by July 29 because of alleged bias against Israel. OCHA spokeswoman Eri Kaneko said: Any reduction of our own staff will stifle our already curtailed efforts to reach civilians across Gaza in urgent need of life-saving humanitarian aid. WHO warns Gaza nears starvation as malnutrition spikes The head of the World Health Organization warned that over 2 million people in Gaza face starvation, citing a deadly surge in malnutrition and related diseases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said acute malnutrition centers in Gaza are full of patients, but lack adequate supplies. He said that rates of acute malnutrition exceed 10% and that among pregnant and breastfeeding women, more than 20% are malnourished, often severely. The hunger crisis is being accelerated by the collapse of aid pipelines, Tedros said, adding that 95% of households in Gaza face severe water shortages. Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, the WHO representative for Occupied Palestinian Territories, said there were more than 30,000 children under 5 with acute malnutrition in Gaza so far this year, and that there had been 21 deaths. He noted that many of the U.N. health agencys supplies were destroyed after its main warehouse was destroyed during attacks in Deir al-Balah on Sunday. Israel says Gaza starvation warnings are propaganda Israels Foreign Ministry accused the groups of echoing Hamas propaganda. It said it has allowed around 4,500 aid trucks to enter Gaza since lifting a complete blockade in May, and that more than 700 are waiting to be picked up and distributed by the United Nations. Thats an average of around 70 trucks a day, the lowest rate of the war and far below the 500-600 trucks a day the U.N. says are needed, and which entered during a six-week ceasefire earlier this year. The U.N. says it has struggled to deliver aid inside Gaza because of Israeli military restrictions, ongoing fighting, and a breakdown of law and order. In the letter issued Wednesday, 115 human rights and charity groups said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. Israeli official to meet US envoy in Rome An official familiar with ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas said a top adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ron Dermer, was traveling to Rome to meet U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday to discuss the state of the talks. The official spoke Wednesday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the sensitive negotiations. U.S. officials said Witkoff planned to head to Europe this week. The U.S. State Department spokesperson said he was headed to the Middle East in a sign that momentum may be building toward a deal. By Tia Goldenberg in Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli military says Gaza church was struck accidentally The Holy Family Church in Gaza City was struck last week by an Israeli shell, an attack that killed three, wounded 10 and damaged the churchs compound. The military said an internal inquiry found the church was hit after an unintentional deviation of munitions. The strike drew condemnation from Pope Leo XIV and U.S. President Donald Trump, and prompted statements of regret from Israel. Holy Family is the only Catholic church in Gaza. Top church leaders from the Holy Land visited the site a day after the incident and said they encountered a Gaza almost totally destroyed. Houthi attacks on Red Sea vessels are war crimes, rights group says The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen attacked two ships, the Magic Seas and the Eternity C, on July 6 and 9, killing some of their crew and detaining others, Human Rights Watch said in a statement. The rebels have been launching missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. HRW, however, said the Houthis attacks on the two vessels violates the laws of war applicable to the armed conflict between the Houthis and Israel. The Houthis have sought to justify unlawful attacks by pointing to Israeli violations against Palestinians, said Niku Jafarnia, HRWs Yemen and Bahrain researcher. Jafarnia called for the rebels to end all attacks on ships that dont take part in the Israeli-Hamas war and immediately release detained crew members. Detention of a senior Gaza health official is extended Dr. Marwan al-Hams, acting director of Gazas field hospitals and the Health Ministrys spokesman, was detained by Israeli soldiers earlier this week in the Palestinian territory. Alaa al-Sakafi, head of Addameer, a Palestinian rights group, told The Associated Press on Wednesday that lawyers have not been allowed to see al-Hams. His detention in a southern Israel prison was extended until the end of the month, al-Sakafi said. He said al-Hams suffered from a gunshot wound in his leg, which he sustained during his detention in Gazas southern city of Rafah on Monday. Israel has not commented on al-Hams detention. Israeli forces deepening activity in Gaza City The Israeli military said in a statement Wednesday that forces were operating in Gaza City, as well as in northern Gaza. It said without elaborating that in Jabaliya, an area hard-hit in multiple rounds of fighting, an air strike killed a number of Hamas militants. Troops struck roughly 120 targets throughout Gaza over the past day, including militant cells, tunnels and booby-trapped structures, among others, the military said. Overnight strikes kill at least 21 More than half of those killed were women and children, health authorities said. One Israeli strike hit a house Tuesday in the northwestern side of Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to the Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The dead included six children and two women, according to the Health Ministry's casualty list. Another strike hit an apartment in the Tal al-Hawa area in northern Gaza, killing at least six people. Among the dead were three children and two women, including one who was pregnant. Eight others were wounded, the ministry said. A third strike hit a tent in the Naser neighborhood in Gaza City late Tuesday and killed three children, Shifa Hospital said. The Israeli military said it struck an Islamic Jihad militant in the strike that killed 12, saying the incident was under review because of reports of civilian casualties. It had no immediate comment about the other strikes. Israel blames Hamas for civilian casualties because the militants operate from populated areas. Human rights groups and charities demand more Gaza aid In the letter issued Wednesday, 115 human rights and charity groups warned of a dire situation pushing more people toward starvation. They said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. The letter slammed Israel for what it said were restrictions on aid into the war-ravaged territory. It lamented massacres at food distribution points, which have seen chaos and violence in recent weeks as desperation has risen. The government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death, the letter said. The letter called for aid to be scaled up as well as for a ceasefire. ` Israel says that it has allowed the entry of thousands of trucks since May and blames aid groups for not consistently delivering goods. William McNeil, Jr., the 22-year-old man whose violent arrest by Jacksonville, Florida, sheriff's deputies was caught in a viral video, reflected on the incident in an interview with ABC News Live Prime anchor Linsey Davis on Wednesday. "I don't drive anymore," he said. "Just because I don't trust cops, anymore. I'm still scared. I can't get sleep at night because of trauma. I have flashbacks and nightmares." The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said on Sunday that the agency launched an investigation into the incident after the 2-minute cellphone video captured by McNeil went viral. On Monday, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters also released body camera footage from two deputies who were present on the scene of the arrest. MORE: Sheriff releases body camera footage in violent arrest that went viral William NcNeil, Jr. via Attorney Michael Wukela - PHOTO: William McNeil, Jr. is pictured in his band uniform in an updated photo. In the video, sheriff's deputies are seen beating and punching McNeil during the traffic stop after he repeatedly questioned why he was being pulled over and refused to exit his vehicle. "I feared for my life," McNeil told Davis when asked why he didn't get out of the car. "I was scared, frightened. I grew up being told that officers protect us, but that wasn't the case," he added. The deputy who broke McNeil's window and punched him was identified by the sheriff as D. Bowers. Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, one of McNeil's attorneys, Ben Crump, called for the firing of the deputy who punched McNeil during the incident. "If you don't terminate this officer and you condone this type of police excessive force, then it sends a message to all of the other police officers on the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office team. It tells them, it is OK for you to treat citizens like this, it is okay to treat Black motorists like this," Crump said. "In America, it is not OK." "I will neither defend nor commend officer Bowers' response to resistance until all the facts are known and the investigation is completed," Waters said. "Pending the outcome of this administrative review, Officer Bowers has been stripped of his law enforcement authority," Waters added. It is unclear if other deputies involved in the arrest have been placed on administrative leave. William McNeil - PHOTO: Cell phone video captured on Feb. 19, 2015 shows an incident that led to the arrest of William McNeal, Jr. and prompted an investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. It is unclear if Bowers has retained an attorney. ABC News has reached out to Jacksonville Sheriff's Office for further comment, but has not heard back. Waters also announced on Monday that "the State Attorney's Office has determined that none of the involved officers violated criminal law," but highlighted that the deputies' actions are now being examined in an "administrative review," which will determine if the deputies "violated [Jacksonville Sheriff's Office] policy." ABC News has reached out to the Office of the State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit serving Clay, Duval and Nassau Counties for further comment. Attorney Harry Daniels, who also represents McNeil, told ABC News that his client suffered "significant" injuries, including memory loss and a concussion, and plans to file a lawsuit. "We're going to take legal action. We're going to pursue a civil complaint in this matter in the upcoming weeks," Daniels said in the ABC News interview, adding that the legal team will also request that the U.S. Department of Justice review this case. Asked what justice looks like for him, "McNeil said, "fighting for what's right, better training for our officers and better officers." "The outcome that we are hoping to see is justice," he said. "You know, justice for all Black men, you know, across America, across the world." McNeil's interview with ABC News came after he spoke out publicly for the first time about the incident during a press conference on Wednesday morning, alongside his attorneys and his parents. McNeil's mother, Latoya Solomon, said during the press conference that watching the video was emotionally difficult for her and it took her months to watch it in its entirety. "I'm thankful to God for protecting him, because I know what the outcome could have been," Solomon said His stepfather, Alton Solomon, was visibly emotional while reflecting on the incident. "To see that video made me go back to the moment when I was 22. It hurt," he said. MORE: What we know about the violent Jacksonville traffic stop that went viral McNeil is a student at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, where he is majoring in Biology. He is also the leader of the marching band. Attorney Gerald Riggs, who also represents McNeil, said during the press conference that Black families all give their children the "talk" about how to deal with law enforcement and he said that McNeil "mastered the talk." Asked what he was taught while growing up about dealing with law enforcement , McNeil said, "Basically, what I was taught is to instead of fighting them on the street where we don't have power, fight them in the courts." (Reuters) -Amazon is shutting down its Shanghai artificial intelligence lab, which was established by its cloud services arm in 2018, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday. The report comes after Reuters first reported last week that the company had cut at least hundreds of jobs globally in Amazon Web Services, just a month after Amazon CEO Andy Jassy warned of a workforce reduction due to adoption of generative AI tools. In response to a query on the FT report on the Shanghai AI lab, an Amazon spokesperson reiterated it was eliminating some roles across AWS. The spokesperson did not comment on the FT report or confirm that the Shanghai AI lab was being shut down. Amazon said on Wednesday the AWS role reductions are not primarily because of AI. Amazon's decision to shut the lab also comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the U.S. increasing its scrutiny of American companies operating in China. Wang Minjie, a scientist in the Shanghai lab, said his team was "being dissolved due to strategic adjustments amid U.S.-China tensions," the newspaper said, citing a post on WeChat. Reuters could not confirm the headcount at the AWS Shanghai research lab. (Reporting by Gursimran Kaur and Surbhi Misra in Bengaluru; Additonal reporting by Devika Nair; Editing by Vijay Kishore and Leroy Leo) Donald Trumps administration hailed a prisoner exchange with Venezuela as a diplomatic success that brought home 10 Americans who were wrongfully detained" there. The men there were hostages, according to a statement from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee shared by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Those Americans are now free and back in our homeland, Rubio said. But one of those men is an American-Venezuelan dual citizen who was convicted of murdering three people in Spain in 2016, according to Venezuelan court records and statements from officials in Madrid. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, 55, was sentenced in Venezuela in January 2024 to 30 years in prison after he was convicted of killing three people in Madrid in 2016. He was accused of escaping to his home country, where he was arrested and prosecuted in 2018. Venezuela prohibits the extradition of its citizens, and Venezuelans can be tried for crimes committed outside the country. Images shared by the U.S. State Department show Ortiz with other Americans who were imprisoned in Venezuela smiling together and waving small American flags as they returned to America on July 18. The Trump administration negotiated a prisoner swap with Venezuela that returned 252 Venezuelans imprisoned in El Salvador in exchange for 10 Americans who were returned to the United States. Among them is Dahud Hanid Ortiz, second from right, who is accused of murdering three people in Spain (US Embassy in Venezuela) A spokesperson for the State Department refused to confirm his identity. The United States had the opportunity to secure the release of all Americans detained in Venezuela, many of whom reported being subjected to torture and other harsh conditions, the spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent. For privacy reasons, I wont get into the details of any specific case. Ortiz, a former U.S. Marine who served in the Iraq War, reportedly killed three people in Usera, a working-class district in the south of the Spanish capital in 2016. His alleged target was Victor Salas, a lawyer who was in a relationship with his ex-wife who he had threatened to kill, according to records reviewed by El Pais. Ortiz is accused of killing two female employees at the firm and a client he mistakenly believed was Salas. According to Argentinian outlet Infobae, Ortiz used a combat knife and an iron bar to stab and bludgeon the victims, then set the lawyers office on fire. Ten Americans are are their way home from detention in Venezuela! Thanks to @POTUS, @SecRubio, @usembassyve, @aboehler and many others for your support bringing Americans home pic.twitter.com/0lnxkBEZ9S Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs (@StateSPEHA) July 18, 2025 Following their deaths, Ortiz returned to Germany, where he was living at the time, and then travelled to Latin America, where he was arrested. We all feel like weve been deceived, betrayed and let down, Salas told Spanish program Vamos a Ver on Tuesday. We feel deceived because Dahud Hanid Ortiz was never a political prisoner. He was a murderer who was convicted and sentenced by the Venezuelan authorities. The case record makes it quite clear that hes a criminal. He told TeleMadrid that the governments of Donald Trump and Maduro have just handed a killer his freedom someone whos a real danger to society without anyone bothering to provide a real explanation. The prisoner exchange also saw the release of dozens of Venezuelans that the Trump administration had deported to a brutal prison in El Salvador after accusing them of being alien enemies deployed by that countrys government to invade the U.S. Under the deal, 252 Venezuelans including men who were accused of being Tren de Aragua gang members and summarily deported to El Salvadors Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT were returned to their home country. Those deportees were imprisoned at the facility for more than four months. Trump officials had labelled those men the worst of the worst criminals, and alien enemies who committed warfare on U.S. soil yet they were released in Venezuela, and could be brought back to the United States under court orders. An air freight parcel marked 'Made in China' sit at a warehouse at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport outside Paris last year. - Geoffroy Van Der Hasselt/AFP/Getty Images As the two biggest economic targets in Donald Trumps trade war, some analysts thought the European Union and China could move closer together and stake out common ground. But a summit between the two sides in Beijing on Thursday is instead expected to showcase the deep-seated frictions and mistrust that are widening a rift between the two heavyweights. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are set to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping and hold summit talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing. The meeting comes as both countries have faced heightened tariffs on their exports to the US with uncertainties in US trade relations driving Beijing to look to tighten ties with the EU and other major economies. But a list of grievances between the two sides are setting that goal out of reach. The EU was far from shy about its concerns in the lead up to the summit. Officials in recent weeks have reiterated their long-standing concerns over what they say are inexpensive Chinese goods flooding European markets, raised alarms about Beijings move to squeeze the rare earths supply chain, and decried its ongoing backing for Russia as it wages war in Ukraine. Beijing has lashed out against those concerns, including the 27-member blocs move last year to raise tariffs on its electric vehicles, launching a range of its own trade probes in apparent retaliation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shakes hands with Chinese leader Xi Jinping after holding a trilateral meeting including French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris in May, 2024. - Christian Liewig/Corbis/Getty Images After the EU last month announced it was barring Chinese companies from participating in public tenders for medical devices over a certain value, Beijing hit back with its own curbs on government purchases of Europe-made devices. On Monday, Chinas Ministry of Commerce slammed the EU decision to include two Chinese banks and a handful of other firms in its latest sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. It claimed the move would have a severely negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations. Chinas Commerce Minister Wang Wentao lodged solemn representations diplomatic speak for formally expressing serious discontent over the sanctions in a video call with EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic on Tuesday. The two officials had candid and in-depth discussions on China-EU economic and trade cooperation and key issues of concern, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said in a statement. All this sets the stage for a contentious summit, ostensibly meant to celebrate 50 years of relations, thats already been whittled from a planned two days to a single-day event. We should expect a very difficult moment and not a deal making moment, said Abigael Vasselier, head of the Foreign Relations team at MERICS think tank in Germany, during a media briefing this week. And in some ways that mirrors frictions between China and the US, she added: China has created leverage over Europe, has gone into a tit-for-tat escalation with Europe, and has linked all issues. You could almost say this looks like a Trump playbook used by China on Europe. The US effect Trumps trade war and his negotiations with both major economies is also casting a long shadow over the summit. There were signs earlier this year that Beijing hoped shared adversity in the face of tariff threats from the US could push China and Europe together. And earlier this month, Beijing granted a reprieve for Europes major cognac makers following an anti-dumping probe widely seen as retaliation for the blocs imposition of up to 45% tariffs on its electric vehicles last year. But in separate addresses to G7 leaders and European lawmakers in recent weeks, von der Leyen made clear the blocs deep concerns about Beijing had been unresolved. China is using this quasi-monopoly (on rare earths) not only as a bargaining chip, but also weaponizing it to undermine competitors in key industries, she said to G7 leaders meeting in Canada in June. Beijing has extensive control over supply chains for these critical minerals key in everything from EV batteries and cell phones to fighter jets and roiled global manufacturing after placing export controls on some such minerals amid its trade spat with the US. China agreed during a truce with the US in June to ease these controls. Von der Leyen also called for unified G7 action to pressure Beijing as it floods global markets with subsidized overcapacity that its own market cannot absorb. Miners are seen at the Bayan Obo mine containing rare earth minerals, in China's Inner Mongolia in 2011. - Reuters While von der Leyen has long been hawkish on Beijing, voices in China have seen her as pandering to the US to ease trade frictions and are watching closely for signs that a potential US-EU trade deal could target their economy. But Chinas leaders are also joining this weeks summit in what they see as a relatively strong position relative to the EU when it comes the US talks. Beijing sees its decision to play hardball with the US, by raising tit-for-tat levies and then showing the power of its rare earths leverage, as paying off bringing the US to the negotiating table twice and resulting with an agreement for a trade framework. Even as frictions remain - including Chinas purchases of Russian oil and Washingtons elevated tariffs on Chinese goods - Beijing has already chalked wins, like the announced resumption of sales of Nvidias H20 AI chips to China, in a reversal of an April US export ban. The EU, meanwhile, is scrambling ahead of an August 1 deadline to cut a deal with the US to avert heavy tariffs and may see more at stake than their Chinese counterparts. The worst-case scenario would be for Europe to find itself in a two-front trade war with the US and China at a time when Trump is pressing for some sort of Faustian bargain with Beijing, said Noah Barkin, a Berlin-based visiting senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States think tank. Rebalance? With this backdrop, chances for any concrete outcomes appear low to observers on both sides, who instead stress that dialogue can be a form of progress in itself. Europe has been clear that it doesnt want to cut ties with China, but rather rebalance its economic relationship, which saw a more than 300 billion Euro deficit last year. It also aims to derisk its supply chains, and work together with China on shared global issues like climate change a potential area of agreement this week. But experts say a key hold-up for Europe has been a sense that Beijing is unmoved by Brussels core concerns. We havent had an EU-China summit that produced real deliverables for many years and this one wont be any different. That is a reflection of Beijings refusal to address the EUs two biggest concerns: an increasingly imbalanced economic relationship that poses a growing threat to European industry and Chinas ongoing support for Russia, said Barkin. China has rejected Europes concerns about industrial overcapacity leading to a flood of exports as baseless, with one state media outlet recently saying that instead of rebalancing trade, Europe to needs to recalibrate its mentality. BYD electric cars at a vehicle presentation event in Berlin this May. - Annegret Hilse/Reuters Instead, Beijing is expected to continue to push for setting minimum prices of Chinese-made EVs in Europe instead of tariffs, as well as unfettered access to European technology and markets. And even as Russia ramps up its assault on Kyiv, Beijing is unlikely to give any sign of a shift in that position on Moscow, its close partner. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly told the European Unions top diplomat earlier this month that Beijing cant accept Russia losing its war against Ukraine as this could allow the United States to turn its full attention to China. China has long claimed neutrality in the war and defended its normal trade with Russia, while ramping up purchases of its oil and shipping goods Western leaders say power Russias defense industry. But observers in China still feel theres room for collaboration as the two sides sit down on Thursday. To solve challenges from climate change to AI and global conflicts, the European Union needs China, and China needs the European Union, according to Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University in Beijing. Alluding to the view that the EU can be a counterweight for China against US frictions and a partner in promoting globalization, he added: If China and the European Union seek win-win cooperation, the so-called new Cold War cannot prevail. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Alexis Hill is running as a Democrat for governor in Nevada. Courtesy Alexis Hill Editor's note: This story has been updated to include new comments by candidate Alexis Hill. (The Center Square) Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill announced her candidacy for the Nevada gubernatorial race in what is shaping up to be a high-profile election. Hill is competing against Attorney General Aaron Ford for the Democratic nomination to go up against Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo. I have been hearing that Nevadans really want some change. Ive seen it my whole life here, growing up in Nevada," Hill told The Center Square late Tuesday afternoon. "People are really struggling now more than they ever have," said Hill. "I want to propose concrete plans to help our working families. People are hungry for something different." I am a collaborative policy maker and have been working with Democrats and nonpartisans to get things done," Hill told The Center Square. "Ive committed my life to public service in Nevada, and I look forward to continuing to do so." As chair of the Washoe County Board of Commissioners, Hill has overseen Nevadas second-largest county by population since her election to the board in 2020. There, she represents the county's 1st District, which includes part of Reno. Hills previous campaign for Washoe County commissioner put a focus on environmental conservation, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and better preserve natural areas, including via urban forestry. Among other issues, she also talked about affordable housing. Chair Hill brings common sense leadership to the Washoe County Commission, and Im proud to have earned her endorsement, wrote Nevada Treasurer Zach Conine on Instagram. Conine recently announced a bid for attorney general. But where Hill will fit into this governors election is unclear. Competitors Ford and Lombardo already hold considerably more political clout. Another Democrat, Steve Sisolak, who was the Nevada governor from 2019-2023, is eyeing a second go at the office. Official filing for the campaign does not open until next year. While still nearly a year and half away from the Nov. 3, 2026 general election, Hill will have to convince Nevadans she has something none of the bigger names in this race can offer. (Reuters) -Chinese-made engines are being covertly shipped via front companies to a state-owned drone manufacturer in Russia, labelled as "industrial refrigeration units" to avoid detection in the wake of Western sanctions, according to three European security officials and documents reviewed by Reuters. The shipments have allowed Russian weapons-maker IEMZ Kupol to increase its production of the Garpiya-A1 attack drone, despite the U.S. and E.U. sanctions imposed in October designed to disrupt its supply chain, according to the sources and documents, which included contracts, invoices and customs paperwork. An internal Kupol document, reviewed by Reuters, showed it signed a contract with the Russian defence ministry to produce more than 6,000 Garpiya this year, up from 2,000 in 2024. The document stated that more than 1,500 drones had already been delivered by April. The long-range drone is being deployed to attack civilian and military targets deep within Ukrainian territory, with around 500 being used by Russia per month, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency said in a statement to Reuters. The European security officials asked that neither they nor their organisation be identified due to the sensitivity of the information. They also requested some specific details in the documents be withheld, such as their dates and the cost of contracts. In September, Reuters reported that Kupol was producing the Garpiya using Chinese technology, including L550E engines made by Xiamen Limbach Aviation Engine Co. A month after the Reuters' report, the European Union and the U.S. sanctioned several companies involved in producing the drones, including Xiamen. In the wake of the sanctions, a new Chinese firm called Beijing Xichao International Technology and Trade has started supplying the L550E engines to Kupol, according to invoices, a Kupol internal letter and transportation documents reviewed by Reuters. The increase in production of Garpiya as well as the new intermediaries supplying parts for the drones are reported by Reuters for the first time. The news agency could not determine how Xichao obtained the engines from the maker Xiamen Limbach. Xiamen Limbach did not respond to a request for comment and Reuters was unable to reach Xichao. IEMZ Kupol, Russia's trade and industry ministry and the defence ministry also did not respond to a request for comment. In a statement to Reuters, China's foreign ministry said it was unaware of the export of parts for the Garpiya and it has controlled foreign sales of dual-use goods in line with China's own laws and international obligations. "China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and are not authorized by the U.N. Security Council," the statement said. The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Both the U.S. and E.U. have repeatedly imposed sanctions on companies in third-party countries, including China, alleged to have provided dual-use technology to Russia. Kupol has been sanctioned since December 2022 by the EU and December 2023 by the U.S. for its involvement in Russia's defence sector. DIPLOMATIC WARNINGS European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is due to travel to China for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on Thursday, amid tensions over Beijing's support for Russia's war effort. The European Union's top diplomat Kaja Kallas told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on July 2 that Chinese firms' support for Russia in the war posed a threat to European security and she urged China to cease trade that sustains Russia's military machine, the EU said in a statement. Meia Nouwens, senior fellow for Chinese security and defence policy at the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), said China's prime concern was to help sustain Russia's war effort to ensure the United States remained focused on Ukraine. "This does not help China and Europe come closer together, diplomatically," she said. China says it imposes strict controls on the export of drones and their parts and has never provided either side of the war in Ukraine with lethal weapons. A person familiar with Beijing's thinking on the issue said that China produces around 75% of world's drones, with the majority not for military purposes; if Russia was using them as weapons, then the same was also true of Ukraine, the person added. Ahead of Thursday's summit, one European official said the EU was not asking China to cut economic ties with Russia but to strengthen customs and financial controls to reduce the flow of specific dual-use goods. The Garpiya, which means harpy in Russian, is based on the Iranian-made Shahed drones but relies on Chinese technology, the three European sources said. The Ukrainian military intelligence agency said the Chinese-made components in the drone included the engine, control systems, and navigation equipment. The engines were shipped by Xichao to a Russian front company identified as SMP-138, which then forwarded them to a second Russian firm LIBSS, according to another internal Kupol document, seen by Reuters. Abram Goldman, registered as the owner of SMP-138, did not respond to an emailed request for comment. LIBSS also did not respond to Reuters' questions. A contract for LIBSS to supply Kupol with the engines, reviewed by Reuters, stated they would be described as cooling units in shipping documents because of their sensitivity. The delivery route was from Beijing to Moscow then to Izhevsk, where Kupol has manufacturing facilities. Describing them as cooling units allowed the goods to be exported to Russia without alerting Chinese authorities, the three security officials said. Transportation documents reviewed by Reuters showed that Sichuan Airlines and China Southern Airlines, China's largest carrier, had transported components for the drones to sanctioned Russian companies since October. China Southern did not respond to Reuters' questions and Sichuan could not be reached for comment. (Additional reporting by John Irish in Paris, Andrew Gray in Brussels, Tom Balmforth in Kyiv, Qiaoyi Li in Beijing; Editing by Daniel Flynn) By Curtis Williams HOUSTON (Reuters) -Exxon Mobil has begun negotiations with the Trinidad and Tobago government to explore for oil and gas in up to seven deepwater blocks off the East Coast of the Caribbean country, which the top U.S. oil producer left more than two decades ago, two sources close to the talks told Reuters. The areas Exxon is interested in are located north of the company's prolific Stabroek block in Guyana, the fastest-growing oil production province in the world, the people said. Exxon and partners Hess and CNOOC have discovered more than 11 billion barrels of recoverable oil and gas in Stabroek and plan to produce more than 900,000 barrels per day of light sweet crude later this year. Trinidad and Tobago is speaking with several major oil and gas companies, Trinidad and Tobago's Energy Minister Roodlal Moonilal told Reuters on Tuesday. "We are in discussions with major players to ramp up exploration and production within and outside of bid rounds," Moonilal said, without disclosing names. Exxon said it does not comment on rumors or speculation. Exxon left Trinidad and Tobago in 2003 after a failed exploration program. Under the new government of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Trinidad aims to rejuvenate investment, especially offshore, where more gas output is needed to support the nation's liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemical industries. Since she took office in April, a flagship offshore gas project with neighboring Venezuela that lost its U.S. authorization to move forward has been shelved, while the government has focused efforts on deepening ties with the region's other energy producers. According to Trinidad's laws, the government can individually negotiate areas for exploration and production if they are not included in a competitive bidding round. Trinidad and Tobago is in the middle of a deepwater auction that has been extended to close on September 17, and which does not include the blocks Exxon is negotiating for. If Exxon and Trinidad reach an agreement, the U.S. producer could acquire almost all the ultra deepwater blocks that remain unlicensed. The large discoveries of oil and gas made in recent years in the Guyana-Suriname basin are one of the reasons why Trinidad is now seeing a renewed interest in its ongoing deepwater auction, the country's energy minister said at a conference early in July. Moonilal said Trinidad was open to bids outside of auctions and hinted at the negotiations. "We are currently considering one such proposal, and if the negotiations are successful, a major announcement will soon be made," he added. (Reporting by Curtis Williams in Houston; additional reporting by Sheila DangEditing by Marguerita Choy) By Nidal al-Mughrabi GAZA/CAIRO (Reuters) -The Al-Shaer family went to bed hungry at their home in Gaza City. An Israeli airstrike killed them in their sleep. The family - freelance journalist Wala al-Jaabari, her husband and their five children - were among more than 100 people killed in 24 hours of Israeli strikes or gunfire, according to health officials. Their corpses lay in white shrouds outside their bombed home on Wednesday with their names scribbled in pen. Blood seeped through the shrouds as they lay there, staining them red. "This is my cousin. He was 10. We dug them out of the rubble," Amr al-Shaer, holding one of the bodies after retrieving it. Iman al-Shaer, another relative who lives nearby, said the family hadn't eaten anything before the bombs came down. "The children slept without food," he said. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strike at the family's home, but said its air force had struck 120 targets throughout Gaza in the past day, including "terrorist cells, military structures, tunnels, booby-trapped structures, and additional terrorist infrastructure sites". Relatives said some neighbours were spared only because they had been out searching for food at the time of the strike. Ten more Palestinians died overnight from starvation, the Gaza health ministry said, bringing the total number of people who have starved to death to 111, most of them in recent weeks as a wave of hunger crashes on the Palestinian enclave. The World Health Organization said on Wednesday 21 children under the age of five were among those who died of malnutrition so far this year. It said it had been unable to deliver any food for nearly 80 days between March and May and that a resumption of food deliveries was still far below what is needed. In a statement on Wednesday, 111 organisations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Refugees International, said mass starvation was spreading even as tons of food, clean water and medical supplies sit untouched just outside Gaza, where aid groups are blocked from accessing them. Israel, which cut off all supplies to Gaza from the start of March and reopened it with new restrictions in May, says it is committed to allowing in aid but must control it to prevent it from being diverted by militants. It says it has let enough food into Gaza during the war and blames Hamas for the suffering of Gaza's 2.2 million people. Israel has also accused the United Nations of failing to act in a timely fashion, saying 700 truckloads of aid are idling inside Gaza. "It is time for them to pick it up and stop blaming Israel for the bottlenecks which are occurring," Israeli government spokesman David Mercer said on Wednesday. The United Nations and aid groups trying to deliver food to Gaza say Israel, which controls everything that comes in and out, is choking delivery, and Israeli troops have shot hundreds of Palestinians dead close to aid collection points since May. "We have a minimum set of requirements to be able to operate inside Gaza," Ross Smith, the director of emergencies at the U.N. World Food Programme, told Reuters. "One of the most important things I want to emphasize is that we need to have no armed actors near our distribution points, near our convoys." Israel's U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told the Security Council on Wednesday that Israel will now grant only one-month visas to international staff from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. FALTERING PEACE TALKS The war between Israel and Hamas has been raging for nearly two years since Hamas killed some 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages from southern Israel in the deadliest attack in Israel's history. Israel has since killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in Gaza, decimated Hamas as a military force, reduced most of the territory to ruins and forced nearly the entire population to flee their homes multiple times. U.S. Middle East peace envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to hold new ceasefire talks, travelling to Europe this week for meetings on the Gaza war and a range of other issues, a U.S. official said on Tuesday. Talks on a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which would include the release of more of the 50 hostages still being held in Gaza, are being mediated by Qatar and Egypt with Washington's backing. Successive rounds of negotiations have achieved no breakthrough since the collapse of a ceasefire in March. Israel's President Isaac Herzog told soldiers during a visit to Gaza on Wednesday that "intensive negotiations" about returning the hostages held there were underway and he hoped that they would soon "hear good news", according to a statement. A senior Palestinian official told Reuters Hamas might give mediators a response to the latest proposals in Doha later on Wednesday, on the condition that amendments be made to two major sticking points: details on an Israeli military withdrawal, and on how to distribute aid during a truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet includes far-right parties that oppose any agreement that ends without the total destruction of Hamas. "The second I spot weakness in the prime minister and if I come to think, heaven forbid, that this is about to end with us surrendering instead of with Hamas's absolute surrender, I wont remain (in the government) for even a single day," Finance Minister Belalel Smotrich told Army Radio. (Reporting by Nidal al-MughrabiAdditional reporting by Crispian Balmer and Charlotte Greenfield in JerusalemWriting by John DavisonEditing by Peter Graff) By James Pearson LONDON (Reuters) -A security patch Microsoft released this month failed to fully fix a critical flaw in the U.S. tech giant's SharePoint server software, opening the door to a sweeping global cyber espionage effort, a timeline reviewed by Reuters shows. On Tuesday, a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that its initial solution to the flaw, identified at a hacker competition in May, did not work, but added that it released further patches that resolved the issue. It remains unclear who is behind the spy effort, which targeted about 100 organisations over the weekend, and is expected to spread as other hackers join the fray. In a blog post Microsoft said two allegedly Chinese hacking groups, dubbed "Linen Typhoon" and "Violet Typhoon," were exploiting the weaknesses, along with a third, also based in China. Microsoft and Alphabet's Google have said China-linked hackers were probably behind the first wave of hacks. Chinese government-linked operatives are regularly implicated in cyberattacks, but Beijing routinely denies such hacking operations. In an emailed statement, its embassy in Washington said China opposed all forms of cyberattacks, and "smearing others without solid evidence." The vulnerability opening the way for the attack was first identified in May at a Berlin hacking competition organised by cybersecurity firm Trend Micro that offered cash bounties for finding computer bugs in popular software. It offered a $100,000 prize for so-called "zero-day" exploits that leverage previously undisclosed digital weaknesses that could be used against SharePoint, Microsoft's flagship document management and collaboration platform. The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration, charged with maintaining and designing the nation's cache of nuclear weapons, was among the agencies breached, Bloomberg News said on Tuesday, citing a person with knowledge of the matter. No sensitive or classified information is known to have been compromised, it added. The U.S. Energy Department, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Microsoft did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment on the report. A researcher for the cybersecurity arm of Viettel, a telecoms firm run by Vietnam's military, identified a SharePoint bug at the May event, dubbed it "ToolShell" and demonstrated a way to exploit it. The discovery won the researcher an award of $100,000, an X posting by Trend Micro's "Zero Day Initiative" showed. Participating vendors were responsible for patching and disclosing security flaws in "an effective and timely manner," Trend Micro said in a statement. "Patches will occasionally fail," it added. "This has happened with SharePoint in the past." In a July 8 security update Microsoft said it had identified the bug, listed it as a critical vulnerability, and released patches to fix it. About 10 days later, however, cybersecurity firms started to notice an influx of malicious online activity targeting the same software the bug sought to exploit: SharePoint servers. "Threat actors subsequently developed exploits that appear to bypass these patches," British cybersecurity firm Sophos said in a blog post on Monday. The pool of potential ToolShell targets remains vast. Hackers could theoretically have already compromised more than 8,000 servers online, data from search engine Shodan, which helps identify internet-linked equipment, shows. Such servers were in networks ranging from auditors, banks, healthcare companies and major industrial firms to U.S. state-level and international government bodies. The Shadowserver Foundation, which scans the internet for potential digital vulnerabilities, put the number at a little more than 9,000, cautioning that the figure is a minimum. It said most of those affected were in the United States and Germany. Germany's federal office for information security, BSI, said on Tuesday it had found no compromised SharePoint servers in government networks, despite some being vulnerable to the ToolShell attack. (Reporting by James Pearson; Additional reporting by Raphael Satter, AJ Vicens and Dheeraj Kumar; Editing by Rod Nickel and Clarence Fernandez) Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie is fundraising off his efforts to compel the Justice Department to release files on the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. In a recent email to supporters, first reported by MeidasTouch News , the Republican wrote that the most powerful people on earth have been working overtime to keep the Epstein files hidden for many years. When I force Congress to go on record on the Epstein files, I have no doubt that they'll bring the world down on my head, Massie added. Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna are leading a bipartisan effort to force Congress to vote on a measure compelling the Justice Department to release the remaining Epstein files. The petition comes after the Justice Department and FBI released a joint memo indicating there will be no further disclosure on the investigation into Epstein, who was facing federal sex trafficking charges when he died. Thomas Massie fundraising off attempt to have Epstein files released (Getty Images) In the same memo, the agencies confirmed Epstein died by suicide in a New York City jail cell in August 2019 following years of conspiracy theories around his death. The memo also claimed Epstein did not keep a client list, even after Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested the list was on her desk earlier this year. The administration is facing mounting backlash from both sides of the aisle over the memo. Trump has defended Bondi and directed her to seek the release of grand jury testimony related to Epstein last week. The Justice Department has since filed a request with a federal judge to unseal that testimony. Its unclear when it will actually be unsealed, however. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced the Houses annual summer break will start on Wednesday as Massie and Khanna continued their efforts. Johnson says he doesnt understand Massies motivation for bringing the petition. Thomas Massie could have brought his discharge petition anytime over the last four years of the Biden administration, Johnson said. He could have done that at any time, and now hes clamoring as if theres some sort of timeline on it. I try to follow Ronald Reagans 11th Commandment: never speak evil of another Republican," he added. "My gosh, its hard to do sometimes around here. The House could be forced into a vote after the summer break ends in September. Massie and Khanna need 218 signatures to force the vote in the fall. Massie is optimistic theyll get them, NBC News reports. "Over the August recess, I think momentum will build for transparency. I don't think this is going to go away," Massie said. "And I think, when we return in September, we'll get Phase 2 of the Epstein files because we'll getevery Democrat and at least a dozen Republicans who want transparency and justice." Massie has made an apparent enemy of Trump in recent months. Trump called Massie a Third Rate Congressman and a LOSER after he voted against the presidents sweeping tax and spending bill, also known as the Big, Beautiful Bill. Massie was one of only two Republicans to vote against the legislation, which passed the House along party lines and passed the Senate with a tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance. Trump also raged against Massie when he criticized his decision to bomb nuclear sites in Iran last month. Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky is not MAGA, even though he likes to say he is, Trump wrote on Truth Social. The good news is that we will have a wonderful American Patriot running against him in the Republican Primary, and Ill be out in Kentucky campaigning really hard. MAGA is not about lazy, grandstanding, nonproductive politicians, of which Thomas Massie is definitely one, he added. The Independent has contacted Massie for comment. ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Russian and Ukrainian negotiators will meet in Istanbul on Wednesday evening for their first peace talks in more than seven weeks, with Moscow under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to strike a deal or face tough new sanctions. The Kremlin played down expectations of any breakthrough at the meeting, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said this week should focus in part on preparing a summit between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Naturally, no one expects an easy road. Naturally, this will be a very difficult conversation. The projects (of the two sides) are diametrically opposed," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. A Ukrainian diplomatic source said Kyiv saw a Putin-Zelenskiy meeting as the key requirement for a breakthrough. "The Ukrainian delegation has come to Turkey prepared to take significant steps toward peace and a full ceasefire, but everything will depend on whether the Russian side is willing to take a constructive approach," the source said. A Turkish foreign ministry source said the meeting at the Ciragan Palace was expected to start at 1600 GMT with opening remarks to the two delegations by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Previous talks on May 16 and June 2 led to the exchange of thousands of prisoners of war and the remains of dead soldiers. But those meetings lasted less than three hours in total and made no breakthrough towards ending the war that started with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Trump has patched up relations with Zelenskiy after a public row with him at the White House in February, and has lately expressed growing frustration with Putin. Last week he threatened heavy new sanctions on Russia and countries that buy its exports unless a peace deal was reached within 50 days, though reaction on financial markets suggested investors were sceptical that he would follow through. Three sources close to the Kremlin told Reuters last week that Putin, unfazed by Trump's ultimatum, would keep on fighting in Ukraine until the West engaged on his terms for peace, and that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance. On Wednesday, Russia said its forces had captured the settlement of Varachyne in Ukraine's Sumy region, where Putin has ordered his troops to create a buffer zone after Ukraine mounted a shock incursion into Russia last year and held onto a chunk of its territory for months. Reuters could not independently confirm the battlefield report. In recent weeks, Russian forces have launched some of their heaviest air attacks of the war, focusing especially on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. Ukraine has hit back with attacks of its own, and last month inflicted serious damage on Russia's nuclear-capable strategic bomber fleet by smuggling drones close to air bases deep inside the country. CONFLICTING DEMANDS Zelenskiy said earlier this week that the agenda for talks was clear: the return of prisoners of war and of children abducted by Russia, and the preparation of a meeting between himself and Putin. Putin turned down a previous challenge from Zelenskiy to meet him in person and has said he does not see him as a legitimate leader because Ukraine, which is under martial law, did not hold new elections when Zelenskiy's five-year mandate expired last year. Russia also denies abducting children. The Kremlin said this week it was unrealistic to expect "miracles" from the talks. At the last meeting on June 2, Russia handed Ukraine a memorandum setting out its key demands, including: full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from four regions of the country that Russia has claimed as its own; limits on the size of Ukraine's military; enhanced rights for Russian-speakers in Ukraine; and acceptance by Kyiv of neutral status, outside NATO or any other alliance. Ukraine sees those terms as tantamount to surrender, and Zelenskiy described the Russian stance as an ultimatum. Ukraine wants an immediate ceasefire, reparations, international security guarantees and no restrictions on its military strength. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov, Tom Balmforth and Tuvan Gumrukcu; writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Toby Chopra) We may earn money from links on this page, but commission does not influence what we write or the products we recommend. AOL upholds a rigorous editorial process to ensure what we publish is fair, accurate and trustworthy. Why you can trust us Oh no! Delta's new AI pricing is live here's what it means for your next flight (Douglas Rissing via Getty Images) Flying is about to get a lot more personal. Delta Air Lines announced that itll use artificial intelligence (AI) to individually determine 20% of its ticket prices by the end of the year. Currently, only about 3% of the airline's flight prices are AI-determined. The airline calls it a "super analyst" working around the clock. So what does this mean for your wallet when you book your next trip? What does Delta AI pricing actually mean? Unlike dynamic airline pricing that considers general demand and supply, Delta's AI system, powered by Israeli company Fetcherr, creates highly personalized prices based on who you are as a customer. The airline's goal is to offer each passenger their specific fare price. The system analyzes millions of data points in real time, including your booking history, loyalty status, market demand, competitor pricing, external factors like weather and events and your browsing behavior. It takes a comprehensive snapshot of all the factors affecting fare levels across its network and applies AIs computational power to simulate scenarios and optimize pricing. How is this different from the pricing we're used to? Airlines have used dynamic pricing for decades that's why flights cost more during holidays and less on Tuesday afternoons. But AI pricing takes this further. Under traditional dynamic pricing Prices change based on variables like competitor pricing, booking time, supply and demand Everyone typically sees the same price for the same flight at a given moment Adjustments occur periodically based on predefined rules or fare buckets Under AI-powered personalized pricing Prices incorporate individual customer identity when determining pricing Different customers see different prices for identical flights Continuous real-time adjustments based on individual profiles In a nutshell, both systems aim to maximize revenue based on what customers are willing to pay, but AI pricing gets more personal about it. Instead of broad categories like "business traveler" or "weekend leisure trip," the AI creates a price specifically tailored to you based on what it knows about your booking habits and travel behavior. Why is Delta going all-in on AI pricing? The airline reported "amazingly favorable unit revenues" from its AI pricing pilot program. Delta President Glen Hauenstein said the airline is continuing to work with Israeli technology firm Fetcherr to leverage "AI-enhanced pricing solutions." For context, corporate travelers, who account for just 12% of passengers, drive 75% of the profits on popular routes. AI pricing helps airlines identify these high-value customers and price accordingly. What should you know as a traveler? Legal protections exist, but they're limited. For example, federal laws prohibit charging different rates based on sex or ethnicity, though without a public record of all fares, it could be difficult to determine if Delta is charging vastly different fares to people based on protected class membership. Information such as your loyalty status, how often you fly, whether you typically book expensive seats and even how you browse may all influence the price you see. AI systems typically learn from patterns. Although few details are publicly available about Deltas AI pricing, an AI system may learn to show higher prices for last-minute bookings because it knows you have less flexibility. However, this isnt wildly different from the dynamic pricing systems most airlines use, which adjust their fare prices based on similar factors. Plus, AI pricing isn't just about higher fares. It might also mean seeing more discounted fares when Delta needs to fill empty seats. What can you do about AI pricing? Domestic flights are typically cheapest 38 days before departure, while international flights should be booked as early as possible ideally 50 days or more before takeoff, according to Google Flights data. For holiday travel, booking Thanksgiving flights 45 days out and Christmas flights 58 days in advance can help secure an affordable ticket. To get a good deal on your airline fare, make sure that you: Time your bookings Book during off-peak times when possible Avoid searching repeatedly for the same flight, as this might signal urgency Browse smarter Clear your browsers cookies and use a VPN when shopping for fares Try searching in incognito or private browsing mode Check prices on different devices and browsers Shop around Compare prices across multiple booking platforms Be aware that logging into your frequent flyer account may trigger personalized pricing Check prices both logged in and logged out Consider using a travel credit card that offers travel credits or benefits to offset higher costs Stay flexible when you can Explore different days if your travel dates are flexible Consider alternative airports or routing options Accept layovers to save on average 25% compared to nonstop flights Learn more: Credit card benefits that protect you from travel mishaps How does this compare to other industries trying AI pricing things? Airlines aren't alone in embracing AI pricing, but the reception varies dramatically by industry. Airlines have conditioned travelers to expect price fluctuations, so we're used to seeing different costs based on when and how we book. When fast-food chains like Wendy's announced plans for dynamic pricing earlier this year, the backlash was swift and severe. Customers immediately condemned the prospect of surge pricing on burgers a la Uber and Lyft. The key difference is expectation. We expect airline prices to fluctuate and ridesharing services to charge more during rush hour, but we expect our lunch to cost the same whether it's noon or 3 p.m. Wendy's quickly backtracked, clarifying that it would offer discounts during slower periods rather than raise prices during busy times. Delta's announcement has also drawn criticism from some politicians and consumer advocates alike, with many expressing concerns about price discrimination and unfair targeting of travelers with less flexibility. Other stories you might be interested in Have thoughts or comments about this story or ideas on topics youd like us to cover? Reach out to our team. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman speaks in Washington, DC, on July 22, 2025. - Ken Cedeno/Reuters OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says the world may be on the precipice of a fraud crisis because of how artificial intelligence could enable bad actors to impersonate other people. A thing that terrifies me is apparently there are still some financial institutions that will accept a voice print as authentication for you to move a lot of money or do something else you say a challenge phrase, and they just do it, Altman said. That is a crazy thing to still be doing AI has fully defeated most of the ways that people authenticate currently, other than passwords. The comments were part of his wide-ranging interview about the economic and societal impacts of AI at the Federal Reserve on Tuesday. He also told the audience, which included, representatives of large US financial institutions, about the role he expects AI to play in the economy. His appearance comes as the White House is expected to release its AI Action Plan in the coming days, a policy document to outline its approach to regulating the technology and promoting Americas dominance in the AI space. OpenAI, which provided recommendations for the plan, has ramped up its presence on and around Capitol Hill in recent months. On Tuesday, the company confirmed it will open its first Washington, DC, office early next year to house its approximately 30-person workforce in the city. Chan Park, OpenAIs head of global affairs for the US and Canada, will lead the new office alongside Joe Larson, who is leaving defense technology company Anduril to become OpenAIs vice president of government. The company will use the space to host policymakers, preview new technology, and provide AI trainings, for example, to teachers and government officials. It will also house research into AIs economic impact and how to improve access to the technology. Despite Altmans warnings about the technologys risks, OpenAI has urged the Trump administration to avoid regulation it says could hamper tech companies ability to compete with foreign AI innovations. Earlier this month, the US Senate voted to strike a controversial provision from Trumps agenda bill that would have prevented states from enforcing AI-related laws for 10 years. A fraud crisis Altman isnt alone in worrying that AI will supercharge fraud. The FBI warned about these AI voice and video cloning scams last year. Multiple parents have reported that AI voice technology was used in attempts to trick them out of money by convincing them that their children were in trouble. And earlier this month, US officials warned that someone using AI to impersonate Secretary of State Marco Rubios voice had contacted foreign ministers, a US governor and a member of Congress. I am very nervous that we have an impending, significant, impending fraud crisis, Altman said. Right now, its a voice call; soon its going be a video or FaceTime thats indistinguishable from reality, Altman said. He warned that while his company isnt building such impersonation tools, its a challenge the world will soon need to confront as AI continues to evolve. Altman is backing a tool called The Orb, built by Tools for Humanity, that says it will offer proof of human in a world where AI makes it harder to distinguish what, and who, is real online. Altman also explained what keeps him up at night: the idea of bad actors making and misusing AI superintelligence before the rest of the world has advanced enough to defend against such an attack for example, a US adversary using AI to target the American power grid or create a bioweapon. That comment could speak to fears within the White House and elsewhere on Capitol Hill about China outpacing US tech companies on AI. Altman also said he worries about the prospect of humans losing control of a superintelligent AI system, or giving the technology too much decision-making power. Various tech companies, including OpenAI, are chasing AI superintelligence and Altman has said he thinks the 2030s could bring AI intelligence far beyond what humans are capable of but it remains unclear how exactly they define that milestone and when, if ever, theyll reach it. AIs impact on jobs? No one knows But Altman said hes not as worried as some of his peers in Silicon Valley about AIs potential impact on the workforce, after leaders such as Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei and Amazon CEO Andy Jassy have warned the technology will take jobs. Instead, Altman believes that no one knows what happens next. Theres a lot of these really smart-sounding predictions, he said, Oh, this is going to happen on this and the economy over here. No one knows that. In my opinion, this is too complex of a system, this is too new and impactful of a technology, its very hard to predict. Still, he does have some thoughts. He said that while entire classes of jobs will go away, new types of work will emerge. And Altman repeated a prediction hes made previously that if the world could look forward 100 years, the workers of the future probably wont have what workers today consider real jobs. You have everything you could possibly need. You have nothing to do, Altman said of the future workforce. So, youre making up a job to play a silly status game and to fill your time and to feel useful to other people. The sentiment seems to be that Altman thinks we shouldnt worry about AI taking jobs because, in the future, we wont really need jobs anyway, although he didnt detail how the future AI tools would, for example, reliably argue a case in court or clean someones teeth or construct a house. In conjunction with Altmans speech, OpenAI released a report compiled by its chief economist, Ronnie Chatterji, outlining ChatGPTs productivity benefits for workers. In the report, Chatterji who joined OpenAI as its first chief economist after serving as coordinator of the CHIPS and Science Act in the Biden White House compared AI to transformative technologies such as electricity and the transistor. He said ChatGPT now has 500 million users globally. Among US users, 20% use ChatGPT as a personalized tutor for learning and upskilling, according to the report, although it didnt elaborate on what kinds of things people are learning through the service. Chatterji also noted that more than half of ChatGPTs American users are between the ages of 18 and 34, suggesting that there may be long-term economic benefits as they continue to use AI tools in the workplace going forward. Over the next year, Chatterji plans to work with economists Jason Furman and Michael Strain on a longer study of AIs impact on jobs and the US workforce. That work will take place in the new Washington, DC, office. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com FILE - Emil Bove, attorney for former US President Donald Trump, sits Manhattan criminal court during Trump's sentencing in the hush money case in New York, Jan. 10, 2025. (Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg via AP, Pool, File) WASHINGTON (AP) The Senate narrowly voted on Tuesday to begin considering the nomination of former Trump lawyer Emil Bove for a lifetime appointment as a federal appeals court judge, with at least one Republican opposed and Democrats vowing to try to slow his confirmation. Bove, a former criminal defense lawyer for President Donald Trump, is now a top official at the Justice Department. His nomination for the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has come under intense scrutiny from Democrats after a fired department lawyer said he suggested the Trump administration may need to ignore judicial commands a claim Bove denies. He was at the forefront of the departments dismissed corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. He has also accused FBI officials of insubordination for refusing to hand over the names of agents who investigated the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and ordered the firings of a group of prosecutors involved in those Jan. 6 criminal cases. The 50-48 vote came after Democrats forced an additional procedural vote on his nomination, an effort to protest the nomination and delay the process. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called Bove the extreme of the extreme of the extreme and Trumps worst judicial nominee to date. Mr. Boves entire career has been built on one thing: fealty to Donald Trump, Schumer said. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski was the only Republican to vote with Democrats against moving to consider the nomination. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, voted with Republicans to move forward but said in a statement that she will oppose Boves confirmation on a final vote. We have to have judges who will adhere to the rule of law and the Constitution and do so regardless of what their personal views may be, Collins said. Mr. Boves political profile and some of the actions he has taken in his leadership roles at the Department of Justice cause me to conclude he would not serve as an impartial jurist. It is unclear whether any other Republicans will oppose Boves confirmation. If all Democrats vote against the nomination, Senate Republicans can lose three GOP votes and still confirm him if Vice President JD Vance breaks a 50-50 tie. The tension and delays over Boves nomination come as Republicans have tried to move Trumps nominees as quickly as possible and as Trump has pushed Senate Majority Leader John Thune to skip the traditional August recess to stay in session and confirm more judges and executive branch officials. Thune said he is considering doing that if Democrats continue to force delays, and Democrats have shown little signs of letting up. At his confirmation hearing earlier this month, Bove took criticism of his tenure head-on, telling lawmakers he understands some of his decisions have generated controversy. But Bove said he has been inaccurately portrayed as Trumps henchman and enforcer at the department. I am someone who tries to stand up for what I believe is right, Bove said. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the panel, said Bove has used his position to weaponize the Department of Justice against the presidents enemies. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, defended Bove against the whistleblowers claims and said he deserves fair treatment. He said Democrats withheld the complaint from the fired lawyer and that his staff had investigated the claims. Mr. Bove has a strong legal background and has served his country honorably, Grassley said at a Senate Judiciary meeting last week, where Democrats walked out in protest. The whistleblower complaint came from a former Justice Department lawyer who was fired in April after conceding in court that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man who had been living in Maryland, was mistakenly deported to an El Salvador prison. That lawyer, Erez Reuveni, described efforts by top Justice Department officials in the weeks before his firing to stonewall and mislead judges to carry out deportations championed by the White House. Reuveni described a Justice Department meeting in March concerning Trumps plans to invoke the Alien Enemies Act over what the president claimed was an invasion by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Reuveni said Bove raised the possibility that a court might block the deportations before they could happen. Reuveni claims Bove used a profanity in saying the department would need to consider telling the courts what to do and ignore any such order, Reuvenis lawyers said in the filing. Bove said he has no recollection of saying anything of that kind. A former federal prosecutor in the Southern District of New York, Bove was on Trumps legal team during his New York hush money trial and defended Trump in the two federal criminal cases brought by the Justice Department. If confirmed by the Senate, hell serve on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which hears cases from Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. ___ By Joyce Lee and Hyunjoo Jin SEOUL (Reuters) -Seoul will take a close look at the terms of a U.S.-Japan trade deal, South Korea's industry minister said on Wednesday, holding out the prospect of greater cooperation in the energy and industrial sectors ahead of key trade talks in Washington. Japan and South Korea, manufacturing powerhouses and key U.S. security allies, compete in areas such as autos and steel, so Tokyo's trade deal will pile pressure on Seoul to reach a similar level of 15%, or better, by an August 1 deadline to avert reciprocal U.S. tariffs of 25%. "Investors see the Japan-U.S. deal as a benchmark for the Korean deal," said Kim Sung-rae, an analyst at Hanwha Investment & Securities, adding that the agreement "would put pressure on Korean negotiators to come up with a similar, or better, deal." South Korea's benchmark KOSPI index edged up 0.2% on Wednesday, while shares in automakers and suppliers rallied after the Japan-U.S. deal. Hyundai Motor rose 7.3% and Kia jumped 7.6%. The finance ministry and the top trade envoy of Asia's fourth-biggest economy are set for high-level trade talks with U.S. counterparts in Washington on Friday. NO WORSE DEAL THAN JAPAN New President Lee Jae Myung has said Seoul wanted to avoid a comparative disadvantage with other countries in trade deals. "South Korea will find it hard to accept a deal where there is a major difference with that of Japan," Kim Yang-hee, a trade professor at Daegu University, said, predicting Korea would reach a similar trade deal with the United States. It will be difficult for South Korea to have U.S. tariff rates lower than 15% on Japan and 10% on Britain, said Kim Yong-jin, a management professor at Sogang University. Seoul needed to import more farm goods and energy, as well as boost investments, as Japan had done to reach a similar outcome, he added. The nation's top trade envoy last week signalled Seoul may have to allow greater access to its agriculture markets to reach a framework deal. But South Korea will exclude the opening-up of its rice and beef markets as a bargaining chip in the Washington talks, instead considering more U.S. imports of crops for fuel, such as corn for bioethanol, the Yonhap News Agency said. "We will make an all-out effort to produce a positive sum result that will allow Korea-U.S. industrial and energy cooperation to be upgraded to the next level," Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan said in a statement. Since the result could have a significant economic impact, South Korea would respond thoroughly while closely considering the sensitivity of its industry, he added. He will meet U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Energy Secretary Chris Wright, among others, he told reporters before boarding a plane to Washington for the talks. ALASKA LNG, CHIPS In a post on Truth Social, U.S. President Donald Trump said Japan would boost market access for American producers of cars, trucks, rice and certain agricultural products, among others. The deal's tariff of 15% on all Japanese imports, including cars, is down from 25%, with Trump adding that it would include $550 billion of Japanese investments in the United States. Japan also received U.S. commitments that it would not be put at a disadvantage over industry-specific tariffs such as on chips and pharmaceuticals. Last week, South Korea's Chosun Ilbo newspaper said the United States had asked Seoul in talks this month to set up a large-scale investment fund to support the reconstruction of its manufacturing industry, without identifying a clear source. South Korea has said the U.S. has conveyed a keenness to cooperate in chips, shipbuilding, and other sectors. Trump also expressed optimism that Japan would form a joint venture with Washington to support a gas pipeline in Alaska. Although South Korea has shown interest in the $44 billion LNG project in Alaska, its trade envoy said this month the feasibility of the project remained unclear. (Reporting by Joyce Lee, Hyunjoo Jin; Additional reporting by Jihoon Lee and Makiko YamazakiEditing by Ed Davies, Clarence Fernandez and Shri Navaratnam) Reviewed by Dietitian Annie Nguyen, M.A., RD Tucci: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images. EatingWell design. Ill eat just about anything Stanley Tucci tells me to. The Tooch, as we call him in my house, is the reason I stood in an hours-long line on a recent trip to Florence to try lampredottoa Florentine street food, featured on Tucci in Italy, thats made from the fourth stomach of a cow. I also credit Tucci with teaching me to make one of my favorite pastas, a simple zucchini-based dish called Spaghetti alla Nerano. The Conclave star has never led me astray when it comes to delicious Italian dishes, so when I saw his latest Instagram post sharing one of his favorite simple, protein-packed lunches, I was all ears. Tucci posted a clip on Instagram this week showing what he made for lunch during a break from packing for his upcoming work trip for The Devil Wears Prada sequel. I made myself a little lunch, and that lunch consists of a tomato sauce with tuna, he says in the video. I coupled it with some cannellini beans with onions and a little bit of garlic. Thats all together and has some twice-baked breadso its crusty, hard, hard bread that softens up once its in thereand thats it. It has some fresh basil in it and some olive oil drizzled on top with salt and pepper. Its really good and really hearty. In the post, Tucci mentions hes pretty sure hes shared the recipe for his tuna tomato sauce on Instagram in the past, and hes right. A few months ago, he shared the recipe with followers, explaining exactly how to make it. To start, cook some diced onion in a saucepan until translucent, then stir in some minced garlic and heat through. Add in some high-quality canned tomatoesSan Marzano crushed tomatoes would work well hereand cook for about 20 minutes, then add some drained, canned tuna fish and cook the whole mixture for another 10 minutes. Stir in some fresh basil right at the end for a boost of flavor. I know it might sound grossit isnt, Tucci says of adding canned tuna to tomato sauce. Its absolutely delicious and what happens is this sauce becomes really, really sweet it is so delicious. In his initial video, Tucci mentions serving the tuna-tomato sauce over spaghetti, but for his recent lunchtime post, hes serving the sweet, flavorful sauce over cannellini beans with some crusty bread mixed in. Since eating tomatoes may help reduce heart disease risk, prevent cancer, improve skin health and support eye and gut health, were fans of any dish that incorporates them. Add in the fact that eating tuna regularly may help improve eye and heart health and reduce inflammation in the body, and white beans like cannellini beans are a great source of potassium, folate and iron, and were sold. Whats more, this dish packs a ton of protein: White beans have about 10 grams of protein per -cup serving and a 3-ounce serving of tuna has about 20 grams of protein. Ive already added this Tucci-approved lunch to my list of things to meal-prep for healthy eating throughout the week. Prepackaged in high-quality food storage containers, the dish would be perfect for heating and eating during the week when youre in need of a healthy, high-protein lunch. And, because Tucci made it, theres no doubt in my mind itll taste absolutely delightful. Read the original article on EATINGWELL Robin Kaye/Facebook; TMZ/BACKGRID Robin Kaye and her husband Thomas Deluca; Suspect Raymond Boodarian arrested. The intruder accused of killing American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, rock musician Thomas Deluca, allegedly called 911 from inside their Encino, Calif., home on July 10 after shooting them with their own gun, the District Attorneys office confirmed to PEOPLE. Despite the call, it took authorities four days to discover their bodies on July 14. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed the new details on Monday, July 21, during a town hall meeting in Encino, where hundreds of residents gathered to voice frustration about a rise in home burglaries across the neighborhood. According to investigators, 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian was burglarizing Kaye and Delucas $4.5 million home on White Oak Avenue on July 10 when the couple unexpectedly returned. Police believe that after the couple walked in, a confrontation ensued" and Boodarian shot them both multiple times in the head with a firearm he had found inside their home. Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times/Getty Los Angeles Police Department secures home where couple's murder took place on July 10. He was believed to have entered the home, which is heavily secured, with an eight-foot barrier and security cameras, through an unlocked door, police said. Despite a pair of 911 calls on July 10 including one allegedly made by Boodarian himself from inside the house on his cell phone officers were unable to access the property and left the scene without discovering the victims. A search warrant affidavit filed by LAPD detectives from the San Fernando Valley homicide unit claims officers responded to two separate calls from the home on July 10. The first came in at 4:10 p.m., when a neighbor reported seeing an unidentified man attempting to break in. The first dispatcher audio came two minutes later on July 10, which was a routine burglary report. The audio recordings reveal there was a potential robbery as a neighbor reported "an unknown man with a tan complexion" had hopped over a fence at the couple's home. Moments later, a police airship known as Air 16 responded to the call and arrived at the scene, hovering over the property. At around 4:16 p.m., the flight officer radioed dispatch: Can you call back PR [person reporting], see if they still have eyes on? Two minutes later, at roughly 4:18 p.m., the officer followed up: I dont have any evidence of forced break-in. Were clear. Air 16 clear, the dispatcher confirmed seconds later. Jennifer Forkish, LAPD communications director, told PEOPLE that the neighboring resident who reported the potential burglary was unable to be reached during attempts to follow up. About 40 minutes later, a second 911 call came from someone inside the home at 4:50 p.m., identifying themselves as a resident and reporting a break-in, according to the affidavit. Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times/Getty Victims Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca's home in Encino on July 15. The probable cause statement in the affidavit claims the 911 operator heard the caller say, Please dont shoot me, before officers were dispatched to the home. According to District Attorney Hochman, Boodarian identified himself with his real name to police in that phone call. Forkish confirmed to PEOPLE that the caller ultimately advised that a police response was not necessary. Follow-up attempts to reach the caller were unsuccessful, she said. All units arrived shortly before 5:00 p.m., according to dispatcher audio. At that time, Air 16 was called in again to survey the scene from above. However, officers reported that the helicopter did not observe anything suspicious. They cleared the area approximately seven minutes later, at around 5:07 p.m. According to LAPD officials, the homes front door was not visible from the outside during the initial response. The residence was heavily secured, with a locked perimeter and gated entry. "Responding units from West Valley Division and LAPD Air Support Division responded to both calls, which were ultimately linked based on the address. Officers arrived on scene and conducted a check of the surrounding area and attempted to visually check the residence through the security gate," said Forkish. "They attempted entry at two access points but both were locked and secured. The home was secured with surrounding walls. The Air Ship visually checked the location and advised there was no visible activity or evidence of a break-in. After taking additional steps to contact the persons reporting and residents at the location, officers cleared from the scene." It wasn't until four days later that officers discovered the bodies of Kaye and Deluca, after police responded to a welfare check at the couples home at 2:30 p.m. Officers were met by the person reporting a friend of the victim who said she had not heard from the residents for several days and was worried. "She happened to have a key code to the vehicle gate, so she gave officers access to the residence," said LAPD Lt. Guy Golan. "When [the police] were in the yard of the residence, they observed some signs of trouble, they breached one of the glass windows, went inside the residence and found both of the victims deceased." Police have since filed a warrant to review doorbell surveillance footage from two neighboring homes, aiming to determine whether it captured the break-in or the killings of the two victims. TMZ/BACKGRID Raymond Boodarian was arrested on July 15, 2025. The following day, on July 15, the LAPD and FBI task force officers arrested Boodarian, 22, in connection with the killings. Investigators tell PEOPLE they are still working to determine whether the suspect had any prior connection to the couple or if he had been involved in previous calls for service at the residence. However, records show Boodarian lives roughly four miles away from the couple's home. The case still remains an active investigation. Boodarian was charged two days later on July 17, with two counts of murder, as well as one count of residential burglary. The murder charges include the special circumstance allegations of multiple murders and murder during the commission of a burglary, as well as firearm allegations. He is being held without bail awaiting his next court date on Aug. 20. Addressing the crowd Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times, Hochman called the murders deeply personal. The government owes you one thing and thats safety, he said. Robin and Tom didnt experience safety that night. Safety failed them. Read the original article on People Secretary of Education Linda McMahon speaks at True North Classical Academy on March 18, 2025. Courtesy: U.S. Department of Education flickr (The Center Square) The U.S. Department of Education has paused student loan forgiveness with no clear timeline of when it will resume. The Income-Based Repayment plan, a student loan forgiveness that allows individuals to make payments based on their income and to receive forgiveness after 20 to 25 years of continuous payments, was unexpectedly paused by the Education Department, while payment records are being updated to reflect recent court injunctions that halted loan forgiveness. IBR forgiveness will resume once those updates are completed, the department said. The Biden administration launched a loan forgiveness program, the Saving on a Valuable Education plan, but it was found to be illegal. IBR is currently the only loan forgiveness plan not facing legal challenges. The Department of Education confirmed in its updated guidance on the pending litigation earlier in July that student loan forgiveness like SAVE and other loan forgiveness plans, have been blocked. But IBR is not. Forgiveness as a feature of the SAVE, PAYE, and ICR Plans is currently paused, because those plans were not created by Congress, said the Education Department. Generally, ED can and will still process loan forgiveness for the IBR Plan, which was separately enacted by Congress. The department stated any IBR forbearances were impacted by ongoing court action. The Department has temporarily paused discharges for IBR borrowers in order to comply with ongoing court injunctions regarding the Biden Administrations illegal attempts at student loan forgiveness. The Departments SAVE rule provided the authority to count forbearances in IBR toward loan forgiveness, but that rule has been enjoined, Deputy Press Secretary Ellen Keast said. In an aerial view, brand new Subaru cars sit in a storage lot at Auto Warehouse Co. on March 24, 2025 in Richmond, California. Japanese automaker Subaru issued a dealer bulletin to all Subaru retailers saying it could no longer guarantee 2025 Subaru pricing as the Trump administration says it will place a 25 percent tariff on products from Canada and Mexico. - Justin Sullivan/Getty Images President Donald Trump announced a long-awaited trade agreement with Japan on Tuesday night, a framework between allies and major trading partners that appeared elusive just weeks ago. I just signed the largest trade deal in history; I think maybe the largest deal in history with Japan, Trump said during a reception with Republican members of Congress Tuesday night. They had their top people here, and we worked on it long and hard. And its a great deal for everybody. The deal will see US importers pay 15% reciprocal tariffs on Japanese goods exported to the United States. But importantly for Japan, the 15% rate will also extend to automobiles and car parts - putting it at an advantage over other major vehicle exporters, which have faced a 25% levy on automotive sector exports since April. Japan will also invest $550 billion dollars into the United States, Trump said, adding that the US will receive 90% of the profits. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%, Trump had posted earlier on Truth Social. The news saw Japanese markets hit a one-year high on Wednesday, with a surge in the price of automaker shares pushing the Nikkei 3.7% higher. Mission accomplished, proclaimed Japans tariff negotiation Ryosei Akazawa in a post on X, accompanied with a photo of himself in the White House pointing to an image of Trump and Japans Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in prior talks. Japan is the first in the world to be able to reduce tariffs on automobiles and auto parts without volume restrictions, Akazawa told reporters in Washington DC Tuesday night. In Tokyo, Ishiba hailed the deal as the lowest figure to date for a country that has a trade surplus with the United States, adding that the government will examine the details of the deal carefully. We believe that this will contribute to the creation of jobs, the production of good products, and the fulfillment of various roles in the world through the mutual cooperation of Japan and the US, he told reporters at his office on Wednesday. Akazawa explained that the Japanese injection of $550 billion into the US would be in the form of equity and loan to support Japanese businesses investments in key fields such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. The share of American rice imports may increase under the current agricultural trade framework, Akazawa said, while stressing that the agreement would not sacrifice Japanese agriculture. Japan will also continue discussions with the US on other tariff measures not covered in Tuesdays deal, including steel and aluminum, which remain subject to a 50% levy, Akazawa said. The Japan agreement was the third piece of trade-related news Trump announced on Tuesday. This comes after months of negotiations with key trading partners like the European Union, South Korea, India and dozens of others at a standstill as Trumps latest August 1 deadline for higher tariffs looms. Tough negotiations Both sides previously described the negotiations as tense. Asked about the chance of a trade deal with Japan in June, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, Theyre tough. The Japanese are tough. But on Tuesday Trump said the deal marked a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Late last month, Trump highlighted rice sales as one point of contention between the two nations. They wont take our RICE, and yet they have a massive rice shortage, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. The country bought $298 million worth of rice from the US last year, according to US Census Bureau trade data. Between January and April of this year, Japan bought $114 million worth of rice. But a 2021 report published by the Office of the United States Trade Representative under former President Joe Biden stated that Japans highly regulated and nontransparent system of importation and distribution for rice limits the ability of US exporters to have meaningful access to Japans consumers. Cars a pillar of the Japanese economy have also been an issue in the negotiations. Trump has said Japan does not import US cars. We didnt give them one car in 10 years, he said earlier this month. Last year, Japan imported 16,707 units of American automobiles, according to the Japan Automobile Importers Association. Despite sticking points like rice and cars, the tensions in negotiations showed signs of easing last week after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with Ishiba in Tokyo and posted on X that he was optimistic about reaching a deal. A good deal is more important than a rushed deal, and a mutually beneficial trade agreement between the United States and Japan remains within the realm of possibility, Bessent said. Mary Lovely at the Peterson Institute said the agreement eased the threat of even higher tariffs on Japan. The deal relieves Japan of the 25% tariff threat and puts it potentially in a competitive position vis a vis similar US suppliers, she wrote in an email to CNN. The US is unlikely to sell many cars and trucks from the US. Agricultural liberalization (is) a win for Japanese consumers, assuming they are willing to try excellent California rice. A major trading partner Unlike some of the agreements Trump has announced recently, including with Indonesia and the Philippines, Japan is a significant trading partner with the United States. Japan is the United States fifth-largest source of imports. Last year, it shipped $148 billion worth of goods to the US, according to Commerce Department data. Cars, car parts and agricultural and construction machinery were among the top goods Americans bought from there. Goods from Japan briefly faced a 24% reciprocal tariff before Trump enacted a 90-day pause in April. Since then goods have faced a 10% minimum tariff. In early July, Trump sent a letter to Japans prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, threatening to enact a 25% tariff on August 1. Meanwhile, the US exported $80 billion worth of goods to Japan last year. Oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and aerospace products were the top exports. Beyond the trade deal, Trump told lawmakers at the White House Tuesday that Tokyo and Washington are close to forming a joint venture for a gas pipeline project in Alaska. The Trump Administration has long sought to encourage its Asian allies, from Japan, South Korea, to Taiwan, to invest in the Alaska venture. Theyre all set to make that deal now, Trump said, without providing more details. Japan has been in an uncomfortable position, since China is its top trading partner and the Trump administration had been looking to pressure allies to reduce their levels of trade with China to get a trade deal with the US, according to multiple reports. The latest agreement between the US and Japan follows an expanded trade agreement the two countries signed in 2019, which went into effect the subsequent year and allowed for more goods to be shipped duty-free. Japan held some leverage over the United States in its trade agreement: The nation is Americas biggest foreign creditor. Japan holds $1.1 trillion of US Treasuries, used to finance Americas massive and mounting debt. This story has been updated with additional context and developments. CNNs John Liu, Yumi Asada and Matt Egan contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Trevor Hunnicutt and Mariko Katsumura WASHINGTON/TOKYO (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump struck a trade deal with Japan that lowers tariffs on auto imports and spares Tokyo from punishing new levies on other goods in exchange for a $550 billion package of U.S.-bound investment and loans. It is the most significant of a clutch of agreements that Trump has bagged since unveiling sweeping global levies in April, though like other deals, exact details remained unclear. Japan's auto sector, which accounts for more than a quarter of its U.S. exports, will see existing tariffs cut to 15% from levies totaling 27.5% previously. Duties that were due to come into effect on other Japanese goods from August 1 will also be cut to 15% from 25%. The announcement sent Japan's benchmark Nikkei stock index climbing almost 4% to its highest in a year, led by stocks in automakers with Toyota up more than 14% and Honda nearly 11%. "I just signed the largest TRADE DEAL in history with Japan," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. "This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan," he added. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who denied reports on Wednesday that he had decided to quit following a bruising election defeat, hailed the tariff agreement as "the lowest rate ever applied among countries that have a trade surplus with the U.S." Two-way trade between the two countries reached nearly $230 billion in 2024, with Japan running a trade surplus of nearly $70 billion. Japan is the fifth-largest U.S. trading partner in goods, U.S. Census Bureau data show. The U.S. investment package includes loans and guarantees from Japanese government-affiliated institutions of up to $550 billion to enable Japanese firms "to build resilient supply chains in key sectors like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors," Ishiba said. Japan will also increase purchases of agricultural products such as U.S. rice, a Trump administration official said. Ishiba said the share of U.S. rice imports may increase under its existing framework but that the agreement did "not sacrifice" Japanese agriculture. Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Shinichi Uchida called the deal "very big progress" and said it reduces uncertainty over the economic outlook. Some economists had forecast the tariffs could have tipped Japan - the world's fourth-largest economy - into recession. Keidanren, Japan's biggest business lobby, welcomed the deal, saying it was a recognition of the significant contributions Japanese companies have made to the U.S. economy and society. The exuberance in financial markets spread to shares of South Korean and European carmakers, as the Japan deal stoked optimism that they could strike similar deals. But U.S. automakers signaled their unhappiness with the deal, raising concerns about a trade regime that cuts tariffs on Japanese auto imports while leaving tariffs on imports from their plants and suppliers in Canada and Mexico at 25%. "Any deal that charges a lower tariff for Japanese imports with virtually no U.S. content than the tariff imposed on North American-built vehicles with high U.S. content is a bad deal for U.S. industry and U.S. auto workers," said Matt Blunt, who heads the American Automotive Policy Council, which represents General Motors Ford and Chrysler parent Stellantis. 'MISSION COMPLETE' "#Mission Complete," Japan's top trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa wrote on X following a meeting with Trump at the White House on Tuesday. Akazawa later said the deal does not cover Japanese exports of steel and aluminum, currently subject to a 50% tariff. As part of the agreement, Japan will drop additional safety tests currently imposed on imported U.S. cars and trucks, Akazawa added, requirements that Trump has said limit sales of American-made autos there. Some last-minute negotiations over the eye-catching investment package appear to have helped seal the deal, a photo of Akazawa's meeting with Trump posted by one of his aides showed. The photo posted on X by Trump's assistant Dan Scavino, pictured the president seated opposite Akazawa with a document titled 'Japan Invest America' in front of him. A sum of "$400B" written in large letters on the document was scored out, with "$500" hand-written above it. Japan is the largest foreign investor in the United States, according to U.S. government data, with an investment position of $819 billion at the end of 2024. Speaking later at the White House, Trump also expressed fresh optimism that Japan would form a joint venture with Washington to support a gas pipeline in Alaska long sought by his administration. Trump aides are feverishly working to close trade deals ahead of an August 1 deadline that Trump has repeatedly pushed back under pressure from markets and intense lobbying by industry. By that date, countries are set to face steep new tariffs beyond those Trump has already imposed since taking office in January. Trump has announced framework agreements with Britain, Vietnam, Indonesia and paused a tit-for-tat tariff battle with China, though details are still to be worked out with all of those countries. At the White House, Trump said negotiators from the European Union would be in Washington on Wednesday. (Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt, Jasper Ward and Mariko Katsumura. Additional reporting by Makiko Yamazaki, Satoshi Sugiyama, Andrea Shalal, David Shepardson, Vidya Ranganathan and Kevin Buckland; Writing by James Oliphant and John Geddie; Editing by Lincoln Feast, Saad Sayeed and Kim Coghill) Winsome Earle-Sears and Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican gubernatorial nominees in Virginia and New Jersey, respectively. (Getty; Bloomberg file) President Donald Trumps sweeping tax cut and spending law known as the big beautiful bill is expected to be a major issue in the 2026 midterm elections. But first, candidates for governor this year in Virginia and New Jersey are already testing how the measure plays on the campaign trail. Rep. Mikie Sherrill and former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominees in New Jersey and Virginia, respectively, have warned about devastating impacts from looming cuts to social safety net programs such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Republicans are taking mixed approaches. In New Jersey, a high-tax state where affordability is a top issue, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli and his allies are planning to go on offense, arguing that Sherrill voted to block critical tax cuts. And in Virginia, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the GOP nominee, has dismissed concerns about program cuts, arguing that the states Republican governor has put the state in a strong position to respond. Those lines of attack could determine who holds the governorships of two key states by the beginning of next year, as well as set the tone for how candidates battling for control of Congress approach the issue in 2026. Democrats focus on budget cuts, Republicans focus on tax cuts Democrats have already signaled that they plan to go all in on the measures changes to SNAP, the program once known as food stamps, and Medicaid. The Democratic Governors Association released a memo Monday detailing its polling of Virginia and New Jersey, which showed majorities of voters in both states have serious concerns and slim majorities saying they would prefer governors who oppose the measure. The races for governor in Virginia and New Jersey in November will be voters first opportunity to reject Trumps harmful budget bill and the GOP nominees will not be able to run from their record of supporting these deeply unpopular Medicaid cuts, DGA Executive Director Meghan Meehan-Draper wrote in the memo. A congressional analysis published by Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee estimates that in Virginia, more than 300,000 residents could lose their health care by 2034. The number is a combination of people who could lose their Medicaid under changes to the program and people who would no longer be eligible for the states expansion of that program under the Affordable Care Act. The New Jersey Department of Human Services estimated that around 350,000 residents who are eligible for Medicaid would lose health care coverage because of bureaucratic barriers, and warned that the states food assistance program, which affects 800,000 residents, is at risk unless the state can raise between $100 million and $300 million. In New Jersey, Ciattarelli has confronted concerns about Medicaid cuts by echoing Republicans in Washington who say those who need the programs crucial health coverage will still receive it. The best way to protect Medicaid is to make sure that those who receive it are truly in need of it most, Ciattarelli said in a video posted on X after the measure passed the Senate. As I go around the state each and every day, I find an overwhelming number of New Jerseyans agree that able-bodied adults without young children should have to work or go to school at least 20 hours a week to remain eligible for their Medicaid benefits. Ciattarelli and his GOP allies are planning to go on offense on the measure with a focus on taxes, lauding provisions codifying the 2017 tax cuts and temporarily raising the federal deduction for state and local taxes from $10,000 to $40,000, a top issue in the high-tax state. Ciattarelli knocked Sherrill for opposing the measure after pledging to work to eliminate the SALT cap, saying in his video statement that Sherrill voted to raise your taxes. (Democrats note that a SALT cap is still in place under the new law and argue the law's tax cuts will benefit the wealthy overall.) Chris Russell, a Ciattarelli campaign consultant, told NBC News that the campaign plans to emphasize Sherrills vote against the tax provisions in this measure, which also boosted the child tax credit, and made tips and overtime pay exempt from federal taxes. That is going to directly impact people in New Jersey and their pocketbooks, Russell said, later adding, We intend to make her defend that vote. Change NJ, a pro-Ciattarelli super PAC, has already launched digital ads knocking Sherrill for opposing the measure, focusing on the tax provisions. The group also released a memo last week with a poll from its senior adviser and pollster Kellyanne Conway, Trumps former campaign manager. The survey, which tested a range of attacks against Sherrill, found that the best-performing attack highlighted her vote to not extend Trump tax cuts, leading to a potential $1,700 tax hike for families, tax hike on small businesses and a cut to the child tax credit, although critics of the poll note it modeled an electorate more favorable to Republicans. This is the most recent, most vivid example of Mikie doing the things in Washington that people are tired of Trenton Democrats doing, Change NJ spokesman Carlos Cruz said. To that end, you should expect to see us talking a lot about it. Democrats highlight downstream effects of Medicaid spending cuts Hospital associations have also warned that rural hospitals in Virginia will take a major financial hit under the law, because they rely so heavily on Medicaid dollars: People living in rural areas are far more likely to receive their health insurance through Medicaid. Both Spanberger and Sherrill have emphasized those cuts on the campaign trail. Sherrill held events earlier this month at a health care center in Camden, a solar energy business in Southampton Township, and Kean University in Union to highlight the effects of the one big beautiful bill, which Sherrill has called the "Republican Price Hike Bill. This cruel piece of legislation will kick hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans off their healthcare and raise costs for even more, cut food assistance for working families, and increase the cost of utilities and mortgages, Sherrill said in her statement explaining her vote against the measure. At the same time, they are funneling New Jerseys hard-earned tax dollars to Trumps billionaire friends and donors. Spanberger, for her part, made criticism of Trumps bill a central tenet of a campaign bus tour through Virginia in late June, telling voters during a stop in Fredericksburg before the measure was enacted that shed already begun looking at how we can make sure that, come January, as few people as possible get pushed off of Medicaid. In video released by her campaign after the House passed its iteration of the bill, she warned that it would constitute a massive attack on health care as we know it and create a reality where Virginians cannot afford the care they need, warning that it would boot people off Medicaid, cause rural hospital closures, increase prescription drug costs and overrun emergency rooms. In both states, Democrats also plan to use the Republicans support for the bill to make the broader case that they wont stand up to Trump, who lost both states by nearly 6 percentage points. Earle-Sears says dont panic In Virginia, Earle-Sears has both praised Trumps tax-and-spend law and brushed off concerns about the measure. At a press conference one week after the law was enacted, Earle-Sears responded to questions about its impact on rural hospitals and voters concerns about the law more broadly. I would say to Virginia, dont panic, she said, before adding that things are being worked out and saying that federal and state lawmakers had begun taking actions to counter hits to health care coverage. A week earlier but still after the bill was enacted Earle-Sears said during an interview on Newsmax, a conservative television network, that the bill does so many great things amid a broader discussion about her policy plans to create jobs in Virginia. And in June, prior to Trumps bill becoming law, Earle-Sears told a crowd at an event in the rural town of Marion that the state would be able to fill in financial gaps created by cuts to Medicaid with rainy day state budgetary funds. Virginia Democrats have pushed as loudly on instances of Earle-Sears defending the law as they have on Spanbergers criticism of it. After supporting and praising these cuts, all Winsome Earle-Sears has to say is dont panic, Democratic Party of Virginia spokesperson Maggie Amjad said in response to questions about how the party was positioning itself to message on Trumps law in the governors race. Amjad called the GOP nominees comments dismissive and empty advice. Responding to questions about Earle-Sears views on Trumps law and about Democratic attacks on that response campaign spokesperson Peyton Vogel wrote in an email that Abigail Spanberger may not be aware of this, but were running for Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. When she and Joe Biden were sending bills that directly impacted the future of our Commonwealth, Governor Youngkin and Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears fought for all Virginians, Vogel added. Thats where all of our priorities should be focused, on the people of Virginia. Fear mongering over President Trumps tax cuts is a losing strategy, but we arent going to get in Abigails way. Republicans working for some outside groups wouldnt rule out the idea of ads promoting aspects of Trump's law in the state, as seems to be on the menu in New Jersey, where the pro-Ciattarelli super PAC noted the political value of the tax cut provisions. But Vogel said the Earle-Sears campaign was not planning to feature in any ads, or as part of any paid media, any messaging that defended or touted the "big beautiful bill." We are focused on Virginia and Winsomes story, she said. FILE - An American flag is placed on a stump flies in Kerrville, Texas on July 8, 2025. (Ashley Landis/AP) Two people remain missing following the deadly July 4 flooding in Central Texas, including a girl from Camp Mystic and an adult male, Gov. Greg Abbott said. Over the weekend, the number of people reported missing dropped from 160 to three, after authorities determined that many had already been found safe. "Task Force 1 recovered the body of a missing adult female lost in the flood," Abbott posted on X. "She was recovered in the Kerrville area." More than 130 people were killed when the Guadalupe River rapidly swelled during an early morning storm on Independence Day. RELATED STORY | Inside the harrowing search: AI and sonar used to find flood victims in Texas The river crested at 37.5 feet, 15.5 feet above major flood stage and 27.5 feet above the initial flood stage. According to researchers, the water level rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes. The flooding devastated Camp Mystic, a well-known summer camp for girls. More than two dozen campers and counselors died in the disaster. The July 4 flood is now considered one of the deadliest inland flooding events in U.S. history. A plane carrying migrants sent to an El Salvador prison months ago under the Trump administration's immigration crackdown lands at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela, as part of a prisoner exchange Friday. (Ariana Cubillos / AP) The State Department is not commenting on why a man convicted of murdering three people in Madrid was among the 10 U.S. citizens Venezuela released last week as part of a prisoner exchange. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, a U.S. veteran who served in Iraq, was convicted in absentia in Spain of killing two Cuban women and an Ecuadorian man in 2016. Ortiz, who is a Venezuelan-born U.S. citizen, fled to the South American country after committing the crime. Venezuelas government rejected Spains extradition request because its constitution does not allow the extradition of its citizens. Instead, Ortiz was tried in Venezuela. A State Department spokesperson wrote in an emailed statement to NBC News that the United States had the opportunity to secure the release of all Americans detained in Venezuela, many of whom reported being subjected to torture and other harsh conditions. For privacy reasons, I wont get into the details of any specific case. Dahud Hanid Ortiz is seated at the center right of the picture, holding an American flag and wearing a gray baseball cap. (U.S. State Department) The Venezuelan government last week released the 10 Americans, along with Venezuelan political prisoners, in exchange for more than 250 Venezuelan migrants the Trump administration had sent to a notorious megaprison in El Salvador in March. The three-country deal involved the governments of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, Nayib Bukele in El Salvador and President Donald Trump. Every wrongfully detained American in Venezuela is now free and back in our homeland, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement last week. Two photos released by the State Department on Friday show the 10 freed Americans, including Ortiz, holding an American flag. Ortiz was awarded a Purple Heart and was dishonorably discharged after making a false official statement and larceny, among other charges. Ortiz was married to a German woman he met while stationed at the U.S. base in Schweinfurt, according to Spanish newspaper El Pais. They later separated and she developed a relationship with a lawyer in Madrid. Ortiz is accused of showing up at the law office and kill three of its employees. The lawyer with whom Ortizs wife was reportedly having a relationship with was not at the office at the time. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Fox News on Tuesday that sanctioning Russian oil to end the Ukraine war is a "very real possibility." President Donald Trump said this month that Washington could put 100% tariffs on buyers of Russian oil and impose other sanctions if Moscow does not agree to a major peace agreement with Ukraine, a deadline that ends in early September. "It is huge pressure on Russia," Wright said in an interview on Fox News' "Special Report with Bret Baier." "That's the biggest pressure you can put on them," Wright said. The U.S. is the world's top producer of oil and gas, a position Wright said means the U.S. can take action that was previously unthinkable. "We're able to do things that we couldn't do before," he said. Despite that position, the Trump administration has not yet put major oil sanctions on Russia, preferring to impose them on OPEC producer Iran since the president took office for a second time in January. (Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Leslie Adler and Jamie Freed) By Philip Blenkinsop and Trevor Hunnicutt BRUSSELS/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The European Union and the U.S. are moving toward a trade deal that could include a 15% U.S. baseline tariff on EU goods and possible exemptions, two European diplomats said on Wednesday, potentially moving President Donald Trump closer to another major trade agreement on the heels of the one he just unveiled with Japan. European negotiators were hoping to reach an agreement to dodge the 30% tariff rate Trump has said he would impose on imports from the 27-nation bloc on August 1. The rate, which could also extend to cars, would mirror the framework agreement the U.S. has struck with Japan, which Trump announced late on Tuesday. There could be concessions for sectors like aircraft and lumber as well as some medicines and agricultural products, which would not face tariffs, the diplomats said. Washington does not, however, appear willing to lower its current 50% tariff on steel, they said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump trade adviser Peter Navarro told Bloomberg News the report from the EU should be taken with "a grain of salt." As talks continued, the European Commission said it would press on with potential counter-measures in case a deal was not reached. EU member states were set to vote on 93 billion euros of counter-tariffs on U.S. goods on Thursday, European diplomats said. A broad majority of members support using anti-coercion instruments if there is no deal, they said. Trump was aiming to secure an agreement on the heels of a complicated deal reached with Japan, the largest foreign investor in the U.S. That deal included a $550 investment and loan pledges from Japan and its commitment to buy 100 Boeing airplanes and boost purchases of U.S. agricultural products. That investment - to be spent at Trump's discretion - would focus on key industries like energy, semiconductors, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals and shipbuilding, the White House said on Wednesday. Tariffs on Japan's auto sector will drop from 27.5% to 15% as part of the agreement, reviving hopes for similar treatment for European cars. Asian and European stock markets rallied as investors cheered the U.S.-Japan agreement, but U.S. stocks showed a more modest rise and earnings reports were gloomy. American businesses making everything from chips to steel reported downbeat results on Wednesday, revealing how the Trump administration's chaotic trade policy has hurt profits, added to costs, upended supply chains and weighed on consumer confidence. U.S. automakers signaled their unhappiness with the Japan deal, raising concerns about a trade regime that cuts tariffs on Japanese auto imports while leaving 25% tariffs on imports from their plants and suppliers in Canada and Mexico. "Any deal that charges a lower tariff for Japanese imports with virtually no U.S. content than the tariff imposed on North American-built vehicles with high U.S. content is a bad deal for U.S. industry and U.S. auto workers," said Matt Blunt, the president of the American Automotive Policy Council, which represents General Motors, Ford and Chrysler parent Stellantis. CAR TARIFFS Automobile stocks led the climb of European shares after the Japan deal spurred hopes that the U.S. was budging over tariffs on EU cars. EU officials have previously said Washington has shown little sign of doing so. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg Television that Japan received the 15% rate on auto tariffs "because they were willing to provide this innovative financing mechanism" that he did not think other countries could replicate. Trump, however, has appeared open to a range of options as the U.S. negotiates trade deals. "I will only lower tariffs if a country agrees to open its market," Trump wrote in a social media post on Wednesday. The Republican president said late on Tuesday that other countries would be coming to Washington for talks this week. Governments were scrambling to close trade deals before next week's deadline that the White House has repeatedly pushed back under pressure from markets and intense lobbying by industry. U.S. and Chinese officials plan to meet in Stockholm next week to discuss extending an August 12 deadline for negotiating a trade deal. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday would not discuss expectations for the meeting, but said Bessent "looks forward to continuing discussions with his Chinese counterparts." (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop in Brussels and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Additional reporting by Steve Holland, Doina Chiacu, Bhargav Acharya, Susan Heavey; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Paul Simao) By Andrew Goudsward and Luc Cohen WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Kilmar Abrego, the migrant whose wrongful deportation to El Salvador made him a symbol of President Donald Trump's aggressive immigration policies, won two key victories in U.S. courts on Wednesday but will remain behind bars on human smuggling charges for now. In dual rebukes to the Trump administration after Abrego was brought back to the U.S. to face the charges, one federal judge ruled that he must be released on bail, and another ruled that authorities must give his lawyers three days' notice before they try to deport him again to a different country. These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the governments lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmars due process rights," Abrego's lawyer Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg said in a statement. Still, Abrego will remain in criminal custody in Tennessee for at least 30 days. His lawyers, while pushing for his release on bail, had asked that any such order be delayed given the risk that immigration authorities could swiftly detain and deport him upon his exit from jail. Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin in a statement accused Abrego of being a member of the Salvadoran gang MS-13 and said he "will never walk Americas streets again." Abrego denies being part of the gang. Abrego, 29, a Salvadoran migrant who had been living in Maryland, was deported and imprisoned in El Salvador in March despite a 2019 judicial ruling that he could not be sent there because of a risk of gang persecution. That prompted Trump's critics to argue that his administration was infringing on legal rights as it moved aggressively to deport millions of migrants living illegally in the U.S. Abrego then challenged that deportation in a civil lawsuit before U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Greenbelt, Maryland. The U.S. Supreme Court in April upheld Xinis' order that the administration facilitate Abrego's return. In June, U.S. officials brought Abrego back to the U.S. after securing an indictment accusing him of transporting migrants in the U.S. illegally as part of a smuggling ring. Abrego has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has been held in criminal custody in Tennessee since his return. His lawyers have accused the Trump administration of bringing the charges to cover up violations of his rights. U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes in Nashville, Tennessee last month granted Abrego's request to be released ahead of his trial. But Abrego's lawyers later asked Holmes not to release Abrego right away, citing the risk he would be detained and deported to a country other than El Salvador. Federal prosecutors challenged Holmes' ruling. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw rejected that challenge, writing that prosecutors had not shown sufficient evidence that Abrego posed a public safety threat or was a flight risk to justify his continued detention ahead of trial. But he said the government was entitled to another hearing over whether to detain Abrego due to their allegation that he sometimes transported children. After Crenshaw's order on Wednesday, Holmes said she would delay her order for release by at least 30 days. In a simultaneous decision on Wednesday, Xinis ruled that if Abrego is released from criminal custody, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement could not detain him in Tennessee. She also ruled that his immigration case must be returned to Maryland, and that he must be notified at least three days before any deportation to a third country. On Xinis' ruling, McLaughlin said, "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest someone who is subject to immigration arrest under federal law is insane." Xinis' order did not bar immigration authorities in Maryland from taking him into custody. (Reporting by Andrew Goudsward; Additional reporting by Jan Wolfe, Jack Queen, Ted Hesson and Luc Cohen; Editing by Deepa Babington and Noeleen Walder) By Jeff Mason, Andrew Goudsward and Joseph Ax WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi told President Donald Trump in May that his name appeared in investigative files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. The disclosure about Trump's appearance in the Justice Department's case records threatened to deepen a political crisis that has engulfed his administration for weeks. Some Trump supporters for years have fanned conspiracy theories about Epstein's clients and the circumstances of his 2019 death in prison. The White House sent mixed signals following the story. It released an initial statement characterizing it as "fake news," but a White House official later told Reuters the administration was not denying that Trump's name appears in some files, noting that Trump was already included in a tranche of materials Bondi assembled in February for conservative influencers. Trump, who was friendly with Epstein in the 1990s and early 2000s, appears multiple times on flight logs for Epstein's private plane in the 1990s. Trump and several members of his family also appear in an Epstein contact book, alongside hundreds of others. Much of that material had been publicly released in the criminal case against Epstein's former associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison after her conviction for child sex trafficking and other crimes. During her trial, Epstein's longtime pilot testified that Trump flew on Epstein's private plane multiple times. Trump has denied being on the plane. Reuters was not able to immediately verify the Journal's report. Trump has faced intense backlash from his own supporters after his administration said it would not release the files, reversing a campaign promise. The Justice Department said in a memo earlier this month that there was no basis to continue probing the Epstein case, sparking anger among some prominent Trump supporters who demanded more information about wealthy and powerful people who had interacted with Epstein. Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing related to Epstein and has said their friendship ended before Epstein's legal troubles first began two decades ago. Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a statement that did not directly address the Journal's report. "Nothing in the files warranted further investigation or prosecution, and we have filed a motion in court to unseal the underlying grand jury transcripts," the officials said. "As part of our routine briefing, we made the President aware of the findings." MANY NAMES APPEARED The newspaper reported that Bondi and her deputy told Trump at a White House meeting that his name, as well as those of "many other high-profile figures," appeared in the files. Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, to which he had pleaded not guilty. In a separate case, Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to a prostitution charge in Florida and received a 13-month sentence in what is now widely regarded as too lenient a deal with prosecutors. Under political pressure last week, Trump directed the Justice Department to seek the release of sealed grand jury transcripts related to Epstein. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg denied one of those requests, finding that it did not fall into any of the exceptions to rules requiring grand jury material be kept secret. That motion stemmed from federal investigations into Epstein in 2005 and 2007, according to court documents; the department has also requested the unsealing of transcripts in Manhattan federal court related to later indictments brought against Epstein and Maxwell. Last week, the Journal reported that Trump had sent Epstein a bawdy birthday note in 2003 that ended, "Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret." Reuters has not confirmed the authenticity of the alleged letter. Trump has sued the Journal and its owners, including billionaire Rupert Murdoch, asserting that the birthday note was fake. MAGA PUSHBACK Trump and his advisers have long engaged in conspiracy theories, including about Epstein, that have resonated with Trump's political base. The Make American Great Again movement's broad refusal to accept his administration's argument that those theories are now unfounded is unusual for a politician who is accustomed to enjoying relatively unchallenged loyalty from his supporters. Epstein hung himself in prison, according to the New York City chief medical examiner. But his connections with wealthy and powerful individuals prompted speculation that his death was not a suicide. The Justice Department said in its memo this month that it had concluded Epstein died by his own hand. In a sign of how the issue has bedeviled Trump and divided his fellow Republicans, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday abruptly said he would send lawmakers home for the summer a day early to avoid a floor fight over a vote on the Epstein files. His decision temporarily stymied a push by Democrats and some Republicans for a vote on a bipartisan resolution that would require the Justice Department to release all Epstein-related documents. But a subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday approved a subpoena seeking all Justice Department files on Epstein. Three Republicans joined five Democrats to back the effort, in a sign that Trump's party was not ready to move on from the issue. Trump, stung and frustrated by the continued focus on the Epstein story, has sought to divert attention to other topics, including unfounded accusations that former President Barack Obama undermined Trump's successful 2016 presidential campaign. Obama's office denounced the allegations as "ridiculous." More than two-thirds of Americans believe the Trump administration is hiding information about Epstein's clients, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted last week. (Reporting by Andrew Goudsward in Washington and Joseph Ax in Princeton, New Jersey, additional reporting by Jeff Mason; editing by Scott Malone and Diane Craft) By Nellie Peyton JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -United States lawmakers have voted to advance a bill that proposes reviewing the U.S. relationship with South Africa due to objections over its foreign policy and potentially imposing sanctions on South African officials. The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee voted 34-16 on Tuesday to send the "U.S.-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act" to the full House of Representatives, where it could be subject to a vote, according to a video of the proceedings. The measure would need to pass both the House and the Senate before it could be signed into law. Many bills at this stage never go to a vote. However, the committee's approval took the bill a step further and underscored tensions between Washington and Pretoria as South Africa seeks to fend off a looming 30% U.S. tariff and counter false claims of white "genocide" made by President Donald Trump. South Africa's foreign ministry and a spokesperson for President Cyril Ramaphosa declined to comment. The bill was introduced in April by Ronny Jackson, a Republican congressman from Texas who cheered the move on X, writing: "South Africa made its choice when they abandoned America and our allies and sided with communists and terrorists". The bill accuses South Africa of undermining U.S. interests by maintaining close relationships with Russia and China, which are among its allies and trading partners. It also accuses South Africa of backing Palestinian militant group Hamas that is at war in Gaza with Israel, which South Africa has denied. South Africa has long been a supporter of the Palestinian cause and filed a case accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice in 2023, which is mentioned in the bill as one of its concerns. The bill proposes "a full review of the bilateral relationship" and to "identify South African government officials and ANC leaders eligible for the imposition of sanctions". It later says that these would be people determined by Trump to have engaged in corruption or human rights abuses. No individuals are named. South Africa's relationship with the United States has sharply deteriorated during Trump's second term, during which he has accused the government of anti-white racism and started a refugee programme for Afrikaners, who are descendants of European settlers. (Reporting by Nellie Peyton; editing by Mark Heinrich) Special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff is scheduled to travel to Europe this week for meetings on a wide range of issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, and will continue pushing for a ceasefire and peace deal, according to a U.S. official. In a briefing with reporters Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce suggested Witkoff could soon go to the Middle East, but declined to provide details about his itinerary. "When it comes to the specific location of the envoy, I do not have that," Bruce said. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas are ongoing, according to an Israeli official, and the Israeli government expects to soon receive Hamas' response to an offer made last week. So far, there have been no breakthroughs as they attempt to broker a 60-day ceasefire, initially proposed by the U.S., in the 21-month war. Doha, Qatar, hosted indirect talks between the two parties earlier this month. Witkoff, according to two diplomatic sources, was expected to travel to the Middle East if negotiations progressed and a deal could potentially be closed. He met last week with Qatari officials at the White House just before President Trump hosted the Qatari prime minister for a dinner that stretched late into the night. It took place as diplomatic efforts were reaching a critical moment in the pursuit of a deal to release the 20 living Israeli hostages, free some Palestinian detainees, allow the entry of much needed food and aid to civilians in Gaza, and bring about a cessation of violence and repositioning of Israeli Defense Forces. A U.S. official and a regional source familiar with the diplomacy told CBS News that Israel last week proposed a new map with new locations where the IDF would potentially withdraw within Gaza. The demarcation of these proposed withdrawal zones has been a sticking point in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to broker a deal acceptable to both Hamas and the Netanyahu government. The international mediators Qatar, Egypt and the U.S. planned to transit the Israeli proposal to Hamas for consideration. The two sources indicated that the Trump administration is cautiously optimistic about the possibility of an impending break in the Gaza negotiations that could lead to a 60-day ceasefire and hostage release. Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, attends a meeting between President Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office at the White House on July 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. / Credit: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was in Washington in early July to discuss the deal with the Trump administration but a sticking point emerged over the deployment of Israeli troops during the truce. Israel wants to keep forces in what it says is an important land corridor in southern Gaza, but Hamas views the presence of Israeli troops on that strip of land as an indication that Israel intends to continue the war once a temporary ceasefire expires. The Knesset goes into a three-month summer recess next week, on July 27, which would give Netanyahu more political flexibility in ceasefire negotiations. In the meantime, Israel has continued to carry out military operations in Gaza, and on Sunday, it issued new evacuation orders to include an area that has been somewhat less hard hit than others, indicating a new battleground may be opening up and squeezing Palestinians further south. In a social media post published Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces warned Palestinians that it was operating "with great force to destroy the enemy's capabilities and terrorist infrastructure" in the central city of Deir al-Balah, "as it expands its activities in this region to operate in an area it has not operated in before." Officials from the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza also said more than 80 people were killed trying to access emergency food supplies on Sunday. Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Gene Simmons reflects on the life and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne How to lower your cholesterol and protect your heart Wolf Blitzer Bails Out Mahmoul Khalil (Screenshot/CNN) (Screenshot/CNN) Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, who gained national attention after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and released by a federal judge earlier this year, refused to condemn Hamas during a CNN interview Tuesday. A judge ordered ICE in June to release Khalil from his Louisiana detention after his lawyers requested a transfer to New Jersey, stemming from his March detention over accusations of activities aligned with Hamas. During an appearance on The Situation Room, CNNs Pamela Brown asked Khalil if he condemns Hamas. Khalil, however, deflected. I condemn the killing of all civilians, full stop, Khalil said. When pressed further by Brown, he reiterated, No, I am very clear with condemning all civilians. Im very straight in my position in that part. But its disingenuous to ask about condemning Hamas while Palestinians are the ones being starved now by Israel. Khalil continued to deflect, focusing on the broader issue of Palestinian suffering rather than directly addressing the actions of Hamas. No, I am very clear with condemning all civilians. Im very straight in my position in that part. But its disingenuous to ask about condemning Hamas while Palestinians are the ones being starved now by Israel. Its not condemning October 6, where 260 Palestinians were killed by Israel before October 7. So I hate this selective outrage of condemnation because this is not, this wouldnt lead to a constructive conversation. And this is also, like what we want to deal with is the root causes of why that happened. And its no way anyone can justify the killing of civilians, Khalil said. Brown, however, persisted in her questioning. Just to be clear, Mahmoud, we did ask about, you know weve talked at length about your views, of course, on the Palestinians. But it is fair to ask you about whether you condemn Hamas because the Trump administration has claimed that you are a Hamas sympathizer. So its very important to actually ask that question in this broad conversation, Brown said. (RELATED: Biden-Appointed Judge Throws Wrench In Trump State Depts Bid To Deport Pro-Palestinian Protester) Yeah, I simply asked and protested the war in Palestine. Thats what I did. Thats my duty as a Palestinian, as a human being right now, is to ask for the stopping of the killing in my home country. And thats consistent with who I am. Im a firm believer in international law and human rights. And all my values come from that point, Khalil said. Its just like, to me, its always, as I said, disingenuous and absurd to ask such questions when literally 62,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel. Thats why I wouldnt really engage much into such questions on condemnation or not. Because selective condemnations is not, wouldnt get us anywhere. Its just hypocritical, to be honest. CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer then intervened. Mahmoud Khalil, you were very clear more than a year ago when you and I had an interview here on CNN in condemning antisemitism, and you were very strong in your words at that time as well, Blitzer said. Mahmoud Khalil, good luck to you, good luck to your family. I know you have a new son, and you finally have a chance to meet with your son. Congratulations on that, and we will stay in touch with you. Following his release, Khalil sued the Trump administration for $20 million over his arrest and months-long detention. His lawyers filed the claim Thursday, accusing the administration of false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, and wrongly labeling him an antisemite while attempting to deport him. As the Israel-Hamas war unfolded, leftist student protesters flooded major U.S. universities in 2024, with Columbia University becoming one of the most turbulent campuses. Protests escalated to the point that university officials called in the NYPD to restore order and make arrests. During the unrest, Khalil, then a graduate student on a non-immigrant visa, quickly positioned himself as the face of the movement, speaking to media and acting as the intermediary for campus activists and Columbia administrators. All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporters byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org. A New York man is facing federal charges after allegedly making and attempting to use multiple improvised explosive devices in parts of Manhattan, prosecutors said July 22. Michael Gann, 55, of Inwood, New York, is accused of manufacturing at least seven improvised explosive devices, also known as IEDs, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York. Prosecutors alleged that Gann assembled the IEDS with precursor chemicals used to create explosive mixtures that he had ordered online. After building the IEDs, prosecutors said Gann stored at least five IEDs and shotgun shells on the rooftops of residential apartment buildings in SoHo, a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. Gann also allegedly threw a sixth IED onto the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, which connects the Lower East Side of Manhattan with the neighborhood of Williamsburg in Brooklyn. Gann was arrested on June 5 in the area near the rooftops in SoHo, where police recovered a seventh IED that he had been carrying with him, according to an indictment. Following his arrest, prosecutors said Gann lied to law enforcement officers about having disposed of his precursor chemicals and the shotgun shells in a dumpster in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. "The safety of New Yorkers is paramount," U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said in a statement. "As alleged, Michael Gann built explosive devices, stored them on a rooftop in SoHo, and threw one onto the subway tracksputting countless lives at risk." Gann is charged with one count of attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, one count of transportation of explosive materials, and one count of unlawful possession of destructive devices, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. He faces up to 40 years in prison if convicted of all charges. LA explosion: 'Horrific' blast at LA County sheriff's training facility kills 3 deputies New York man accused of stockpiling homemade explosives According to the indictment, Gann ordered about two pounds of potassium perchlorate along with more than 200 cardboard tubes, over 50 feet of fuses, and other supplies on May 30. He then placed a separate order for about one pound of aluminum powder. Both potassium perchlorate and aluminum powder are precursor chemicals that can be used to make an explosive mixture when combined, the indictment states. Gann later received his orders on June 4 in Long Island, where he then mixed the precursor chemicals before setting them on fire to cause an explosion, according to the indictment. He subsequently transported mixed and unmixed precursor chemicals and his other supplies from Long Island to Manhattan and assembled at least seven IEDs, the indictment alleges. Prosecutors said Gann stored his supplies and at least five of the IEDs on the rooftops in SoHo, noting that he was captured on surveillance cameras carrying some of the IEDs on the rooftops. One of the IEDs seen on surveillance footage contained about 30 grams of explosive powder, which prosecutors said is about 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks. Gann also stashed at least four shotgun shells on the same rooftops, which prosecutors alleged that he intended to use with the IEDs. "This defendant allegedly stockpiled homemade explosives and traveled to New York City with these deadly devices," New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said in a statement. "He threw one of these devices onto an active subway track and stored others on the rooftop of a residential building, but because of the skilled investigative work and swift response from the NYPD and our partners, we were able to intervene before he caused any harm." Feds are cracking down. 3D printers turn regular guns into machine guns. Suspect allegedly researched how to make bombs Before making the IEDs, prosecutors said Gann had posted a message on X on March 27 and tagged the official POTUS account, controlled by the Trump administration. According to the indictment, the message stated: "Dear @POTUS, I'm thinking just now here in NYC that it's too bad that the wall wasn't built before the National Guard would have to come here for the Protests and Riotation or would you just drop a bomb on this place while and because they seem to be coming and coming?" Gann also conducted searches online related to bomb-making and firearms between May and June 2025, the indictment states. Some of the searches allegedly included questions about background checks for firearm purchases, supplies for making bombs, and using 3D printers for homemade guns, according to the indictment. And just hours before Gann was arrested on June 5, prosecutors said he posted on Instagram another social media platform saying: Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow? This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York man made bombs and stored them across NYC: Prosecutors Still, enterprises are investing in and planning for genAI deployments for the long term, and they may find in time that ethically sourced models deliver both safety and performance. What about copyright indemnification? Tipping the scales in the other direction is the big model makers promises of indemnification. Some genAI vendors have said they will cover the legal costs for customers who are sued over content produced by their models. If the model provides indemnification, this is what enterprises should shoot for, Moors Andersen said. It says that the vendor assumes responsibility for training the model and intends not to utilise copyrighted data. However, it acknowledges that mistakes can occur, especially when examining a general-purpose model. If a copyright holder comes forward and makes a claim, the model vendor will take full responsibility. Not all vendors or all products offered by the same vendor promise the same level of protection, so its important to read the fine print. IBM has the broadest indemnification, but many of the major vendors also offer some form of protection, Andersen said. For instance, its part of [Anthropic] Claudes enterprise level tier, but not the cheaper ones and Adobe and Getty get this automatically since they only use their [own] data [for model training]. Others question how much protection such a policy would deliver, given the wide range of possible liability exposures. Software vendors are highly unlikely to [meaningfully] indemnify. What exactly are they indemnifying you against? You will be liable for what you generate and use via AI, said Mark Rasch, a former federal prosecutor who specialises in technology legal issues. Today, he serves as a professorial lecturer in law at the George Washington University Law School and as legal counsel for Unit 221B, a data privacy and security compliance consulting firm. Could you impose on the model a requirement to make sure that it doesnt infringe on anyones content? asked Rasch, adding that it would likely prove difficult if not impossible to enforce. The copyright infringement problem is very vague. Using AI means that you are venturing into unknown territory, from a practical and legal perspective. Weighing risks and benefits Retail giant Macys uses LLMs from the the top five model makers, said Brian Phillips, VP of Technology. Regarding the legal complexities of copyright and other issues when leveraging genAI, it is absolutely a risk, he admitted. Its a difficult balancing act, Phillips said. We are both trying to be cutting edge and taking steps to be innovative with constraints. In balance, though, he believes that using the major genAI models delivers benefits that outweigh the risks. Phillips spoke of a risk transference from Macys to the genAI model makers. We are expecting them to have a sanitised model, he said, adding that the major corporate model makers Macys is working with have assured the retailer that they will take on any liability. Andersen agreed. I dont think these smaller academic models offer anything magical just because they have clean data. That is not a big enough differentiator, he said. Andersen also stressed that the claims of using only clean data are just that: claims. The outside data coming in is somehow certified as clean. There are many different models and datasets available today that can claim this on Hugging Face. Some licensing schemes, such as Creative Commons, also support this, he said. But we still need to take someones word for it, and models and datasets can be fluid, so how can an enterprise keep up? This is what we see Fairly Trained trying to do. And there are still risks even with open data sources, Andersen added. If you are using these models for discovery and it yields a new invention or a new drug, someone may [still] come around and say, I deserve a royalty. On the eve of the EU-China Summit tomorrow in Beijing, 17 NGOs sent an open letter to Commission President von der Leyen and European Council President Costa, expressing their concern about Chinas political prisoners, Uyghur repression, religious freedom, and the Hong Kong national security law. Brussels (AsiaNews/Agencies) Some 17 groups defending human rights in China released an open letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, on the eve of the EU-China Summit scheduled in Beijing on 24-25 July. In it, they urge the EU and its member states to confront this human rights crisis, which increasingly affects not only people across China but also people worldwide, with the same determination to identify and commit to alternative approaches as it is now setting out on security and trade issues. The highly anticipated event comes at a time when driven by a trade war China and the European Union appear to be seeking new deals. For the signatories (which include Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, the Chinese Human Rights Defenders network and the World Uyghur Congress), new initiatives [should] be publicly articulated at the forthcoming Summit to build on and go beyond existing commitments set out in the March 2019 EU-China Strategic Outlook. We appreciate the EUs longtime support to independent civil society and human rights defenders across China, and welcome public remarks, such as strong statements at the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, identifying particular cases of concern, reads the letter. We thank the EU for condemning the arbitrary detention of human rights legal activists Xu Yan and Yu Wensheng, who were detained en route to meeting with EU officials. Despite this, Xi Jinping and Chinas leadership are confident in their impunity for widespread arbitrary detention, forced assimilation, forced labour and torture in China; and transnational repression, including in Europe. For this reason, Chinese authorities not only refuse to comply with the vast majority of their international human rights obligations, they also seek to rewrite global human rights norms and weaken key international institutions. The signatories want to use the Summit to ensure justice for victims and survivors of Beijings violations and abuses by publicly calling for specific actions, including the immediate and unconditional release of human rights defenders detained for their work, explicitly naming individual cases, like Hong Kong essayist Gui Minhai (an EU citizen) and Uyghur intellectual Ilham Tohti, a Sakharov Prize winner. They also call for reaffirming the commitments made at the G7 to end transnational repression by the Chinese government, both in EU member states and elsewhere, through intimidation, surveillance, threats or acts of physical violence, threats to family members, and digital repression, not to mention sexual harassment of women. Another point is the defence of the right to religious freedom, brought back to the forefront in recent weeks by the issue of the selection of the next Dalai Lama. Finally, the 17 groups call for the urgent repeal of legislation like Hong Kongs national security law, which is incompatible with international legal obligations. After 50 years of EU-China relations, the EU should take stock of deepening Chinese government repression inside and outside the country, and express solidarity with people across China who seek to exercise, uphold and defend human rights. In fact, The EUs recent decision to cancel an economic and trade dialogue with the Chinese government over serious differences suggests a willingness to pressure Beijing in new and different ways. Thus, Grave and worsening human rights violations by Chinese authorities should motivate new strategies. Without those, people across China and in Europe are increasingly at risk. by Nirmala Carvalho In Trichy, Tamil Nadu, outcastes are marginalised even during annual Catholic celebrations. Bishop Amalanathan noted that inside the Church, Dalits participate in the choir, do the readings, prayers, collections, etc., but the problem lies outside celebrations. For him, all should be treated equally. Trichy (AsiaNews) A group of Dalit Catholics in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, staged a hunger strike near the District Collectors Office on Monday, claiming that they were excluded from ongoing celebrations at the centuries-old Church of St Mary Magdalene in Kottapalayam due to caste-based discrimination. The celebrations, which began on 14 July, were organised by the Diocese of Kumbakonam. In a strong act of protest, Bishop Jeevanandam Amalanathan refused to participate in the procession, citing persisting caste discrimination in the parish. Dalit Christians complain that for decades they have been deprived of the right to pay parish dues and to be included in the festival's organising committee. They also claim that the festival chariots have never been brought to their streets. We were abused with casteist slurs and warned not to interfere, lamented one parishioner. Even though there are seven chariots in the festival, not even the smallest comes to our locality, said a protester, R Raj Nobili. The district administration should at least ensure that happens. Jo Kennedy, a human rights lawyer backs the protest. This is a violation of the equality guaranteed by the constitution, he said. Weve written letters to authorities, but no one has stepped in. The Church must dismantle the caste wall from within. Bishop Amalanathan reiterated his decision to boycott the chariot procession, stating that upper-caste Christians refuse to grant Dalit Christians equal rights. He rejected, however, the accusation that the Church itself supports this discrimination. People celebrate the parochial feast every year and the celebrations and events for the parish festival inside the church is the responsibility of the parish priest, said the bishop of Kumbakonam speaking to AsiaNews. Inside the Church there is no discrimination. Dalits participate in the opening and welcome greetings to the celebrants, participate in the choir, do the readings, prayers, collections, etc. However, concerning the outside celebrations, non-Dalits do not allow the Dalits to participate, and don't involve them in the administration and do not allow them to contribute to the annual collections for the festivals. We told them that it is not right, the prelate explained. I have tried to dialogue with them separately. They seem adamant and want to continue the traditions. I told them that I do not approve. I was not willing to go for their celebrations. We will continue our dialogue process to impress upon them that all should be treated equally, the prelate said. The issue has also been filed by the Dalits in the Supreme Court. We will give our response to the Court. I have said that I will stand for what is right. The Church does not stand for discrimination of any kind. All should be treated equally. However, we are not able to enforce this, as it is outside the Church. by Shafique Khokhar In Lahore, police charged Amir Masih under Article 295-C of the Penal Code without any investigation, relying solely on the First Information Report. The NGO Dignity First praises the upper house for approving a partial abolition of the death penalty, a first step towards reforming the judicial system. Lahore (AsiaNews) The threat of the blasphemy law continues to hang over Pakistanis as more false accusations area made, sowing fear and insecurity. One of the latest cases occurred last week, on 17 July, when Sanor Ali, who runs a grocery store called Rana General Store in Nishat Colony, Lahore Cantonment, reported an act of blasphemy by a Christian man. According to the accused, Amir Masih came to his shop and began talking to him, saying that life in Pakistan was becoming difficult and that he wanted to leave the country. He then suggested to the grocer that he too should leave Pakistan for a better future. According to the First Information Report (FIR No. 2916/25), Amir Masih began talking about religious issues, railing against Islam, and uttering offensive words against the Prophet Muhammad. According to the FIR, the grocer called his brother Muhammad Sarwar and, with his help, stopped Amir Masih from speaking, upon which the latter fled. Solely based on Sanor Ali's statement without any investigation, police filed charges under Article 295-C of the Penal Code, which concerns the crime of defiling the name of Muhammad. The FIR ends with a request for the Christian man's arrest. The Penal Code of Pakistan provides for the death penalty or life imprisonment, as well as a fine, for anyone who uses words, explicit representations, or any utterance that defames the Prophet. Meanwhile, the organisation Dignity First welcomed the Senate's decision on 19 July to "abolish the death penalty for certain crimes with the death penalty commuted to life in prison for crimes under Articles 354-A and 402-C of the Penal Code. Dignity First has always maintained that the death penalty is a cruel, inhumane, undignified, and fundamental violation of the right to life, said its Executive Director Yousaf Benjamin in a press release on 19 July 2025. We commend the members of the Senate, it reads, especially Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, for this courageous and realistic decision. Harsher punishments do not necessarily lead to a reduction in crime rates. Yousaf Benjamin stressed that the experience of developed countries has proven that judicial system transparency, effective law enforcement, and the certainty of arrest and punishment for criminals are what truly deter crime. While the Senate initiative does not completely abolish the death penalty, it represents a major step towards reducing the possibility of miscarriages of justice and preventing irreversible punishment for the innocent. This measure is essential to upholding human rights and creating a just society. Dignity First urges the Government of Pakistan to swiftly enact this law and implement further reforms that will pave the way for the complete abolition of the death penalty in the country. Farmers association slammed as unconstitutional the new agricultural income tax imposed by the International Monetary Fund. Pakistani agriculture is already reeling from the collapse of cotton production, rising costs, and falling market prices. Farmers want alternative crops, demanding tax breaks equal to those for other sectors. Hyderabad (AsiaNews) The Sindh Chamber of Agriculture (SCA) has announced an all-out challenge against the imposition of a 45 per cent tax on agricultural income, calling it "unconstitutional, illegal, and unethical." During a meeting held on yesterday, attended by its chairman, Syed Nadeem Qamar, the organisation declared that Sindh farmers will boycott wheat cultivation for the 2025-2026 season and are prepared to be arrested rather than pay the tax. Farmers have slammed the measure, imposed under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), calling it unsustainable for farmers, who complain they are not receiving fair prices for their production. We are ready to face imprisonment, but will not pay the agricultural income tax, farmers leaders said, urging farmers across Sindh to join the civil disobedience movement. During the meeting, SCA officials called on farmers to register with local administrative offices (called mukhtiarkars) to obtain the Benazir Hari Card, required to receive subsidies and government aid. They also demanded that farmers receive the same tax exemptions granted to industrialists, and then expressed their willingness to farm more alternative crops (mustard, nigella, sunflower, and other oilseeds), deemed more economically sustainable. The protest comes at a critical time for Pakistani agriculture, according to the local newspaper Dawn, which has already been hit by a 40 per cent drop in cotton production. According to the SCA, this year's harvest will not exceed four million bales, with a market price of just 6,500 rupees per maund (equivalent to approximately 40 kg), well below the 11,000 rupees promised by the Sindh Ministry of Agriculture. This situation, according to farmers, reflects a structural crisis exacerbated by uncontrolled cost increases; in the last two weeks alone, diesel jumped by 22 rupees per litre and fertiliser by 600 rupees per bag. For the Sindh Chamber of Agriculture, the development amounts to the deliberate destruction of the agricultural sector and the government should immediately scrap increases in the price of fuel, fertiliser, seeds, and pesticides, as well as slap a 25 per cent tax on imported cotton to boost domestic production. It demanded that the subsidy of 10,000 rupees per acre, currently available to sunflower and canola crops, be extended to mustard and rapeseed crops as well. As early as January of this year, the SCA had reported a drop in production in several crops like rice, cotton, sesame, and sugarcane, along with a slide in prices, which it blamed on the government for instituting an abrupt and unilateral deregulation. Champion local news. Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told. Pashinian pledged to quickly nationalize Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) in a June 18 Facebook post made hours after Karapetian was arrested in Yerevan following his strong criticism of Pashinians campaign against the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Armenian parliament controlled by the ruling Civil Contract party hastily approved on July 2 a government bill allowing the government to temporarily take over ENAs management before forcing the companys owner to sell it within three months. A political ally of Pashinian heading the Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) approved last week the governments choice of the interim manager of ENA pending the regulators consideration of government allegations that Karapetians Tashir Group has mismanaged the electricity distribution network. Tashir as well as Armenian opposition groups have dismissed the allegations, saying that the takeover is part of Pashinians crackdown on the tycoon. According to Karapetians legal team, the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC) ruled late on Tuesday that the Armenian government must refrain from implementing the bill and taking further steps to nationalize ENA. A statement released by it said the arbitration body called into question the governments compliance with a 1995 agreement on mutual investment protection signed by Armenia and Cyprus. Tashir, which owns ENA through a shell company registered in Cyprus, accused the government of violating that agreement when it announced on June 30 plans to file an international lawsuit against Yerevan. This verdict shows that justice exists in the world and it is not carried out through Facebook, as is the case in Armenia now, Narek Karapetian, the jailed tycoons nephew and the ENA chairman, said on Wednesday. Karapetian insisted that the Arbitration Institute ruling also means the government cannot change the composition of the ENA management. Pashinians office disputed this claim when it reacted to the ruling later in the day. A statement released by it said the governments decision to appoint Romanos Petrosian, a senior member of the ruling Civil Contract party, as ENAs interim manager is beyond the scope of the ruling and will not be revoked. The statement did not comment on other aspects of the Arbitration Institutes decision. It said vaguely that while the government respects the decision everyone is also obliged to be guided by the laws of the Republic of Armenia and international treaties that define the rules and procedures for the recognition and enforcement of arbitration awards. Narek Karapetian responded by accusing the government of not complying with the ruling. Petrosian fired ENAs acting chief executive, Davit Ghazinian, and signaled other personnel changes earlier this week. Ghazinian described his sacking as illegal. ENA is the largest of Tashirs companies in Armenia. The bulk of Karapetians business assets, estimated by the Forbes magazine at $4 billion, are located in Russia where the 59-year-old tycoon has lived since the early 1990s. Karapetian was initially prosecuted for allegedly calling for a violent overthrow of Pashinians government. He was also charged with tax evasion, fraud and money laundering after pledging to fight for regime change in Armenia and set up a new opposition group for that purpose. He denies all the accusations levelled against him. 23 July 2025 14:20 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more As is known, relations between Azerbaijan and Russia have been particularly tense for several months, especially in the past month. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also touched the issue at the Shusha Global Media Forum and his comments indicate the beginning of a new phase in relations between the two countries, which is justified. In response to one of the participants' questions, the President said that Azerbaijan plans to sue Russia over the AZAL incidents in an international court. Moscow has traditionally been very cautious with Azerbaijan. However, recently, it has become the primary source of tension in Azerbaijan-Russia relations. This tension mainly stems from the disruption of both global and regional strategic stability. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's independent foreign policy now conflicts with Russia's geopolitical interests in the South Caucasus. The Kremlin aims to maintain influence over all post-Soviet republics without exception. This indeed highlights the severity of the crisis between Azerbaijan and Russia. Initially, Azerbaijan chose not to escalate the situation to the international stage. Moscow barred the CIS Executive Committee from investigating the incident and did not permit US and EU involvement, keeping discussions limited to Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This should have been recognized by officials in the Kremlin. According to ICAO regulations, a final report must be released within a year. If a resolution is not achieved, the parties can take legal action, which is precisely what Baku intends to do, signaling to Moscow that there is still time to act. The incident involving the downed aircraft, along with Russia's insufficient response to Azerbaijan, form the core of the ongoing crisis, while other issues have arisen as a result. While Moscow has taken some steps and shown some signs of engagement, these gestures were not focused on the incident involving the plane; the actions were misaligned with Azerbaijans concerns. Additionally, a representative of President Aliyev engaged in discussions in Moscow in April, and the Kremlin was aware of Azerbaijan's expectations. Yet, no action has been taken, so far. In retaliation, President Aliyev's absence from the May 9 parade was significant, though special forces were present, indicating Azerbaijan did not forget its role in the Great Patriotic War. President Aliyev has shouldered the full weight of the strained relations with Russia, openly stated his expectations, and made efforts to improve the situation. Subsequently, escalating events like those in Yekaterinburg began to radiate tensions throughout the entire relational framework. Messages from the Kremlin via the Minister of Emergency Situations went unanswered because they did not pertain to the plane crash. In the past, Russia used influence over Azerbaijan primarily through Armenia and Iran. With the resolution of the Garabagh conflict, these threats have diminished considerably. An additional challenge was Russia's support for separatist movements in Azerbaijan, which Azerbaijan also opposed. Although there is talk of deporting Azerbaijanis in Russia, this does not seem likely to be effective. Currently, Russia lacks significant mechanisms to influence Azerbaijan. For relations to improve, Russia must acknowledge its responsibility for the incident, provide compensation, and issue an apology. Without these steps, future crises are likely unavoidable. While the situation is trending towards escalation, there remains an opportunity for de-escalation. The Kremlin knows the necessary steps to take, and Baku is poised for either outcome, traditionally favoring a constructive approach given its commitment to maintaining principled relations. 23 July 2025 21:50 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Following its decisive victory in the 2020 Second Garabagh War, Azerbaijan has swiftly transitioned from battlefield triumph to nation-building success. With sovereignty restored over its once-occupied territories, the country has launched an unprecedented reconstruction and restoration campaign aimed at transforming these regions into thriving economic and social hubs. The governments strategic investmentsamounting to billions of dollarsare breathing new life into the liberated lands, laying the foundation for long-term development, population resettlement, and economic integration. In the first half of 2025, Azerbaijan has made significant strides in the reconstruction and restoration of its liberated territories, investing 1.6 billion ($0.91 billion)representing nearly 39% of the annual allocation for these efforts. This financial commitment reflects the strategic prioritization of the Great Return policy, aimed at restoring life, infrastructure, and socio-economic functionality across the regions recovered following the 2020 Second Garabagh War. According to the Finance Ministry, 1.5 billion ($0.88 billion) of the allocated funds were channeled into critical infrastructure projects. These included the design and construction of highways (1.1 billion or $0.65 billion), new residential complexes (239.5 million or $140.9 million), water and sanitation systems (33.7 million or $ 19.8 million), industrial park infrastructure (20.5 million or $12.1 million), and electricity supply to settlements (1.7 million or $1 million). Another 182 million ($107 million) was earmarked for social projects in education, health, culture, and sports, while 16.8 million ($9.9 million) supported ongoing demining operations. This level of investment underscores the Azerbaijani governments systematic and well-funded approach to post-conflict reconstruction. With 17.1 billion ($10.1 billion) of total state budget expenditures executed by mid-yearequal to 41.3% of the annual expenditure forecastthe reconstruction of Garbagh and Eastern Zangazur stands as a central pillar of national spending. The budgetary execution also highlights fiscal discipline and economic resilience. State revenues in the first half reached 19.8 billion ($11.7 billion), exceeding forecasts by 3.7%, and marking a 5.1% increase over the same period in 2024. This solid fiscal performance provides the financial cushion necessary for sustained long-term investment in the liberated territories. President Ilham Aliyev, speaking during the 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum in Khankendi on July 19, emphasized that Azerbaijan has entered a new phase of reconstruction. ...in the first four years we were mainly engaged in infrastructure projects. We have now almost completed the main part of them. All of Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur have already been provided with a circular electricity network and have also been connected to the traditional national electricity grid of Azerbaijan, the president noted, highlighting that energy, transport, and communication infrastructure is largely in place. Indeed, the completion of a circular electricity network and the integration of Garabaghs grid with the national system mark a critical milestone. Hydropower plants in the region are now generating 280 megawatts of electricitymore than the current population requiresenabling surplus energy to be redistributed to other regions. Meanwhile, transport infrastructure continues to expand rapidly. Roads that once took nine hours to navigate can now be covered in four. Seven tunnels have been constructed along the Fuzuli-Shusha route, spanning a total of 80 kilometers, with the 11.7-km Murovdag tunnelone of the longest in the worldset to open in the coming months. Railway and cable car projects are also underway, boosting both logistical access and tourism potential. While infrastructure development remains the foundation, the focus is gradually shifting toward resettlement. President Aliyev confirmed that 18 settlements have already welcomed returning IDPs, with new housing and social facilities enabling sustainable community life. In Khankendi alone, Garabagh University has enrolled 1,500 students, supported by a faculty of 300 professorsclear evidence of rapid social normalization. This transition from physical rebuilding to societal revitalization is crucial. As Aliyev remarked, the success of the Great Return is not merely about capital investment: No matter how much money you may have, if you do not have human capital, if people do not work with their hearts, it is impossible to achieve anything. Indeed, enthusiasm and national pride have become intangible but critical drivers of the reconstruction process. Many of the workers involved in the regions development see their work as a patriotic duty, further accelerating the pace and quality of recovery. Despite the progress, challenges remain. Demining is a costly and time-intensive process, and the continued presence of unexploded ordnance poses risks to returning populations. Moreover, sustaining momentum in housing, education, and employment will be essential to transforming temporary returns into permanent, thriving communities. Nevertheless, the governments multi-sectoral approachlinking infrastructure, economic opportunity, and public servicessuggests a long-term commitment to integration and growth. The liberated territories are not just being rebuilt; they are being re-imagined as hubs of innovation, sustainability, and national pride. The first half of 2025 demonstrates that Azerbaijans reconstruction of the liberated territories is not only progressing rapidly but is guided by strategic vision, fiscal responsibility, and an unwavering sense of national purpose. The Great Return is evolving from policy to practice, from ambition to realityvividly reshaping the region and redefining post-conflict recovery in the 21st century. 23 July 2025 15:02 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more MtbuArt International Art Symposium has been held in Baku, Azernews reports. Organized by Azerbaijan Publishing House, the event was timed to the 150th anniversary of National Press. The art symposium concluded with an exhibition of works by local and foreign artists, photographers, and sculptors. General Director of Azerbaijan Publishing House Leyla Gulaliyeva welcomed the guests of the event. In her speech, she noted that MtbuArt International Art Symposium was held under the slogan "Word. Print. Form -United Worlds" She outlined that the main goal of the MtbuArt project is to draw attention to the historical development of Azerbaijani press and to present the over a century-long history of the Azerbaijan Publishing House through the language of art. "MtbuArt International Art Symposium has brought together 17 Azerbaijani and 17 foreign artists, photographers, and sculptors participate. Among the international participants are artists from the USA, South Korea, Spain, Italy, Hungary, Mexico, Morocco, Egypt, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Turkiye. These artists, working in various styles and with a unique perspective on art and the surrounding world, create works inspired by the overall concept proposed by the Azerbaijan Publishing House, reflecting their personal approach and artistic imagination," Leyla Gulaliyeva said. "The art pieces presented at the exhibition demonstrate the synthesis of press history and contemporary art, bringing together creative perspectives from both national and international art circles. The exposition includes installations made from newspaper pages, sculptures formed from old printing presses, photographic collages, and paintings," she added. The exhibition within MtbuArt International Art Symposium will run until early September. 23 July 2025 15:30 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more As part of Vagif Poetry Days held in Shusha, an award ceremony has been held for the winners of the "Letter to Vagif" essay contest organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, Azernews reports. The essay contest, held under the theme "The Literary Heritage of Shusha and Its Significance in Our Victory History," aimed to promote the artistic representation of Shusha's cultural identity within the literary sphere, to discover talented writers, and to encourage their creativity. Based on the evaluation criteria determined by the commission, three winners were selected. The winners were Tahmina Verdiyeva, first place for "Shusha: Where Soul and History Meet"; Natavan Baghirova, second place for "Appeal to Vagif"; and Elvin Ahmad, third place for "The Zero Point of Life, or a Life Contained in Two Verses." During the award ceremony, the winners were presented with diplomas and cash prizes. It should be noted that participants from various regions of the country, as well as professionals from different fields with a special appreciation for words and literature, took part in the contest. In their essays, they expressed Shusha's role in the historical memory of our people, its contribution to shaping our literary and cultural identity, and its symbolic significance in our history of victory in a unique way. A total of 175 essays were submitted to the contest. 23 July 2025 16:05 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more A significant cultural and public event has been held under the initiative and leadership of the media organization Emedia Group, with the support of the Khatai District Executive Authority of Baku, the Western Azerbaijan Community, and the Baku City Main Department of Culture, Azernews reports. The event was dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the National Press and the theme of preserving the history of Western Azerbaijan through the art of carpet weaving. This meaningful event, held within the framework of the "Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty", carries special importance in terms of promoting the history of the national press and strengthening the ideas of sovereignty. The main goal of the gathering was to preserve historical memory, national values, and tangible cultural heritage. Special attention was given to historical values during the evening. The central theme of the event "Carpets Will Tell the Story of Western Azerbaijan" carried deep symbolic meaning. Carpets, with their ornaments reflecting memory, history, and identity, are a valuable legacy that bear the imprint of life on those lands. Each carpet woven in Western Azerbaijan holds traces of its people and conveys their history across generations. This project also serves as a clear example of public support for President Ilham Aliyev's initiative concerning Western Azerbaijan. One of the event's aesthetically significant moments was the display of the original costume worn by the hero of the iconic film "Babek." This exhibition became a symbol of preserving historical memory and a bridge between the past and the present. The event opened with a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs- the heroes who gave their lives for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the homeland, followed by the National Anthem of Azerbaijan. The event was attended by state officials, representatives of official institutions, local and Turkish media outlets, as well as artists and public activists. In their speeches, Head of the Khatai District Executive Power Rafigh Guliyev, Chairman of Emedia Group Elshan Aliyev, Chairman of the Board of the Western Azerbaijan Community and Member of the Azerbaijani Parliament Aziz Alakbarli, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Western Azerbaijan Community Misir Mardanov, and other speakers emphasized the symbolic importance of celebrating the anniversary of the national press in the year marking the 5th anniversary of the Great Victory. They reminded attendees that during the 44-day Patriotic War, media representatives carried out an information battle, delivering the truth to the world about what was happening. This was a time of great responsibility for journalists. It was noted that President Ilham Aliyev's example, his precise and fact-based responses to accusations during the war served as a model for the media. Speakers also highlighted the country's growing authority on the world stage, referenced international forums held in the liberated regions, and expressed hope for the imminent return to Western Azerbaijan. The speakers congratulated members of the media and honored the memory of journalists who lost their lives. As part of the event, the kinci Award was presented. This award recognized individuals who contributed to the development of media and the promotion of national values. Among the recipients was the Trend International Information Agency. Particular attention was drawn to the participation of representatives from the press of brotherly Turkiye, who expressed solidarity and friendly support. Their historical unity with Azerbaijan's just cause and their joint celebration of the anniversary further underscored the strength of Azerbaijani-Turkish friendship. Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az. 23 July 2025 17:50 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Theatrical performance "The Ruler of Words was shown on July 23 in front of the house of Khan's daughter Natavan in Shusha, Azernews reports. The event was held as part the Vagif Poetry Days organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Culture Ministry, and the Azerbaijan Writers' Union. The stage director of the play is Honored Art Worker Hafiz Guliyev, and the scriptwriter is the poet and writer Ilgar Fahmi. The play reflected the attitude of former rulers towards words and poetry, as well as the sensitivities they carried in their souls despite being sovereigns. Thus, once again, poetry and ghazal melodies have echoed in the land of Garabagh. The ancient Azerbaijani land of Shusha has once more hosted an unforgettable cultural event. With this, the Vagif Poetry Days have come to an end. On January 14, 1982, the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, took part in the ceremonial opening of Molla Panah Vagifs's Mausoleum and the Poetry House in Shusha. During this visit, the National Leader Heydar Aliyev gave instructions to hold the Vagif Poetry Days. Distinguished by its uniqueness in the history of modern Azerbaijani literature, the Vagif Poetry Days were held annually from that time until 1991, beginning in the poet's homeland, Gazakh, and concluding at the enchanting Jidir Duzu in Shusha. After the heroic victory of the brave Army under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Supreme Commander Ilham Aliyev, Shusha city was liberated from Armenian occupation, and the Vagif Poetry Days have since been held again in their homeland-Azerbaijan's cultural capital. 23 July 2025 12:22 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more During the IDEF 2025 international defense exhibition in Turkiye, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Defense Industry, Azersilah Holding, and Mirasli Holdingboth subordinate to the Ministry of Defense Industryparticipated in an official ceremony to exchange a series of agreements, memorandums of understanding, and letters of intent signed with various Turkish defense companies, Azernews reports. The development was announced by Turkiyes Ministry of Defense Industry. We continue to stand by the Azerbaijani state and people in all circumstances, to produce together with the slogan Two states, one nation, and to develop together. We hope that these documents will be useful for our country and our brotherly Azerbaijan, and we express our gratitude to all participants, the statement read. 23 July 2025 14:47 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Azerbaijani Defense Minister, Col. Gen. Zakir Hasanov, and senior ministry leaders are currently visiting Turkiye, Azernews reports via the Defense Ministry. As part of the visit, Colonel General Hasanov met with Haluk Gorgun, Chairman of the Defense Industry Committee under the Presidency of the Republic of Turkiye. The meeting was held within the framework of the 17th International Defense Industry Exhibition IDEF 2025, one of the region's leading defense expos showcasing cutting-edge military technology and strategic partnerships. The sides emphasized that the continuous expansion of military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiyeanchored in deep-rooted friendship, brotherhood, and a strategic allianceremains a priority for the leadership of both countries. During the discussions, they reviewed prospects for enhancing military collaboration and addressed key topics of mutual interest in the defense sector. The visit underscores the shared vision of Baku and Ankara to further deepen defense industry cooperation and regional security coordination. 23 July 2025 11:39 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Azernews reports. "Dear Mr. President, On behalf of myself and the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to you and, through you, to your entire nation on the occasion of the national holiday of the Arab Republic of Egypt Revolution Day. The dynamic development of relations between Azerbaijan and Egypt is a source of great satisfaction. High-level reciprocal visits and regular contacts play a significant role in enriching our cooperation with new substance. Today, there is substantial potential for deepening our relations across various fields. I am confident that, for the sake of our peoples prosperity, we will continue joint efforts to leverage these opportunities and further expand our traditional friendly relations and fruitful cooperation. On this momentous day, I wish you robust health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, and everlasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Egypt," the letter reads. 23 July 2025 19:11 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan has approved the extradition of Darin Alislamovich Suyunov, a citizen of Kazakhstan born on May 28, 1999, who was internationally wanted for multiple serious crimes in his home country, Azernews reports. According to the official statement, the request from the Prosecutor General's Office of Kazakhstan was granted in accordance with the Convention on Legal Assistance and Legal Relations in Civil, Family and Criminal Matters dated October 7, 2002. Suyunov was identified in Azerbaijan in January 2025, where he had been the subject of an international search. He faced charges in Kazakhstan for robbery, kidnapping, premeditated murder, and theft, allegedly committed by a group acting in premeditated conspiracy. Following his identification, Azerbaijani authorities imposed a preventive detention measure. The extradition was carried out with the accused being escorted by a special convoy of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan, and he was officially handed over to Kazakhstans authorized body. Iran's FM says lifting sanctions, respecting nuclear rights necessary for resuming U.S. talks Xinhua) 09:47, July 23, 2025 TEHRAN, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Tuesday that his country is ready to resume indirect negotiations with the United States if sanctions are lifted and Tehran's right to use nuclear technology for "peaceful" purposes is respected. He made the remarks in a meeting with members of the Iranian parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, the official news agency IRNA quoted Yaghoub Rezazadeh, a member of the commission, as saying. The foreign minister said that "in case the sanctions are lifted and Iran's right to use peaceful nuclear technology is respected, indirect negotiations with the United States will be held before raising the issue of (triggering) the snapback mechanism in October," according to the lawmaker. The snapback mechanism is a clause in a 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that would allow the other parties to re-impose all international sanctions should Iran fail to comply with the agreement. Araghchi added that planning had been done for negotiations between Iran and Russia on the former's nuclear program, and a meeting between Iran's representatives and those of the three European countries of France, Britain and Germany was scheduled to take place in Istanbul on Friday for talks on the same issue, according to Rezazadeh. Iran signed the JCPOA in July 2015 with six countries -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States. Under the deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The United States unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, prompting Iran to reduce compliance with its nuclear commitments gradually. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) 23 July 2025 13:28 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov, received outgoing Israeli Ambassador George Deek, highlighting the strong and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, Azernews reports. During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the level of bilateral relations, emphasizing the successful collaboration across political, economic, trade, energy, investment, and humanitarian spheres. The potential for further development in these areas was also noted. Minister Bayramov addressed the tense situation in the Middle East, underlining Azerbaijans concern and its consistent support for efforts aimed at establishing peace and stability in the region. He affirmed Azerbaijans readiness to contribute constructively to the peace process. Ambassador Deek, who is concluding his six-year term in Azerbaijan, expressed gratitude for the support extended to him during his tenure. He noted that he would always carry warm memories of his service in Azerbaijan. 23 July 2025 14:30 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister, Elnur Mammadov, has paid an official visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia to further strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries, Azernews reports. According to information, the visit featured the 4th round of political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Azerbaijan and Cambodia. The meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov and Cambodias Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Khuon Phon Rattanak. During the consultations, both sides reviewed the current state of bilateral relations and discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in political, economic, humanitarian, and other fields. Deputy Minister Mammadov provided detailed insights into the regional situation, including ongoing de-mining operations and reconstruction efforts in the territories liberated from occupation. The talks also covered collaboration in international organizations, including within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Cambodia is a member. On July 22, Elnur Mammadov met with Cambodias Minister of Tourism, Huot Hak. Both sides highlighted the significant tourism potential of their respective countries and stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in the sector. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism between the governments of Azerbaijan and Cambodia. As part of the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation also held meetings with Vong Soth, Vice President of the National Assembly of Cambodia; Khy Sovanratana, Secretary of State and head of the Cambodian Diplomatic Academy (NIDIR); and Ms. But Rotna, Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC). A special meeting was also held with Cambodian alumni who studied in Baku during the 1980s and 1990s. The participants welcomed the proposal to establish an AzerbaijanCambodia Friendship Association, which received support from the Cambodian side. At the conclusion of the visit, Deputy Foreign Minister Mammadov met with representatives of Cambodias leading media outlets to discuss the current state and future prospects of AzerbaijanCambodia relations, answering questions from local journalists. This visit marks an important step in deepening bilateral ties and opening new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors. 23 July 2025 15:46 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Diplomatic ties between Azerbaijan and Israel are set to strengthen further in the coming years, said outgoing Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan, George Deek, as he concluded his mission in Baku. Azernews reports that Ambassador Deek made the remarks following his farewell meeting with Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov. Today I had the honor of meeting with Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov for a farewell conversation as I conclude my mission as Israels ambassador, Deek wrote on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. The Israeli Diplomat noted that he expressed his deep gratitude to Jeyhun Bayramov and the MFA team for their cooperation, trust, and friendship over the past six years. He highlighted a key milestone in the two countries relations: the opening of Azerbaijans embassy in Israel in 2023, calling it a historic and symbolic step that underscored the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. ""A milestone moment in our journey was the opening of Azerbaijans embassy in Israel in 2023a historic step that reflects the growing depth of our partnership. As I take my leave, I carry with me not only memories but also hope: that our relations will continue to grow, and that peace will prevailin the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and beyond," Deek added. Today I had the honor of meeting with Azerbaijans Foreign Minister @Bayramov_Jeyhun for a farewell conversation as I conclude my mission as Israels ambassador. I expressed my deep gratitude to him and the MFA team for their cooperation, trust, and friendship over the past six https://t.co/IjeAkkl6TS George Deek (@GeorgeDeek) July 23, 2025 Ambassador George Deeks tenure saw significant growth in bilateral cooperation, including in areas such as defense, technology, energy, and people-to-people diplomacy. His departure marks the end of a dynamic chapter in AzerbaijanIsrael relations, with both sides committed to building on the momentum in the years ahead. ASTORIA / WARRENTON OREGON WEATHER | WEATHER CAMS | TIDES | ALERTS Updated Constantly: Warrenton / Astoria Oregon Coast Weather | Cams | Tides | Alerts - Current conditions, forecasts, tides, weather, live radar weather cams, North Coast Range travel, storm alerts | Buoy reports and reports from passing ships | Live Radar ASTORIA, OREGON 7-DAY FORECAST OvernightAreas of dense fog. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Calm wind. 27 Aug 2025 at 1:33am WednesdayAreas of dense fog before 11am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 69. Calm wind becoming west 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon. 26 Aug 2025 at 6:45pm Wednesday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 58. South southwest wind 3 to 7 mph. 26 Aug 2025 at 6:30pm ThursdayMostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 71. Calm wind becoming west 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. 26 Aug 2025 at 6:15pm Thursday NightIncreasing clouds, with a low around 57. West wind 5 to 8 mph becoming calm in the evening. 26 Aug 2025 at 6:00pm FridayPartly sunny, with a high near 74. 26 Aug 2025 at 5:45pm Friday NightA 20 percent chance of showers after 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. 26 Aug 2025 at 5:30pm SaturdayA chance of showers, mainly before 11am. Partly sunny, with a high near 70. 26 Aug 2025 at 5:15pm Saturday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 58. 24 Aug 2025 at 4:23pm SundayPartly sunny, with a high near 70. 26 Aug 2025 at 5:00pm Sunday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 58. 26 Aug 2025 at 2:56am Labor DayPartly sunny, with a high near 71. 26 Aug 2025 at 4:45pm Monday NightPartly cloudy, with a low around 58. 21 Aug 2025 at 1:54am TuesdayMostly sunny, with a high near 74. 21 Aug 2025 at 1:39am Find Astoria / Warrenton Oregon Hotels, Lodging, Rentals LATEST ASTORIA WEATHER / WAVE ALERTS (+ archives, Columbia Bar) Dense Fog Advisory issued August 26 at 2:05PM PDT until August 27 at 11:00AM ... 26 Aug 2025 at 3:05pm * WHAT...Dense fog will reduce visibility to 1 NM or less. * WHERE...Columbia River Bar, South Washington coastal waters out to 60 NM and the Oregon coastal waters from Clatsop Spit to Florence out to 60 NM. * WHEN...From 5 PM this afternoon to 11 AM PDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Low visibility will make navigation difficult. NORTH OREGON COAST RANGE - HWY 26 NEAR WARRENTON, ASTORIA - if empty then no alerts Heat Advisory issued August 25 at 4:51AM PDT until August 25 at 5:00AM PDT by... 25 Aug 2025 at 5:51am Warm temperatures are still expected, but steady cooling over the next few days will lower the HeatRisk. Continue to use caution and watch for signs of heat exhaustion. Heat Advisory issued August 24 at 12:30PM PDT until August 25 at 5:00AM PDT b... 24 Aug 2025 at 1:30pm * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures up to 85-90F and overnight low temperatures of 58-68F possible. * WHERE...North and Central Coast Range Mountains of Oregon, and Willapa Hills. * WHEN...Until 5 AM PDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events, especially for those spending time outdoors or without access to adequate cooling. Heat Advisory issued August 24 at 2:36AM PDT until August 25 at 5:00AM PDT by... 24 Aug 2025 at 3:36am * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures up to 85-90F and overnight low temperatures of 58-68F possible. * WHERE...North and Central Coast Range Mountains of Oregon, and Willapa Hills. * WHEN...Until 5 AM PDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events, especially for those spending time outdoors or without access to adequate cooling. Red Flag Warning issued August 26 at 9:25PM PDT until August 27 at 9:00PM PDT... 26 Aug 2025 at 10:25pm The National Weather Service in Portland has issued a Red Flag Warning for thunderstorms and unstable conditions, which is in effect from 9 AM to 9 PM PDT Wednesday. * AFFECTED AREA...In Oregon, Fire Weather Zone 689 Northern Willamette National Forest and Fire Weather Zone 690 Southern Willamette National Forest. * THUNDERSTORMS...Isolated to scattered thunderstorms. * DRY AND UNSTABLE...Unstable conditions with elevated mixing heights may promote pyroconvective activity. * OUTFLOW WINDS...Instantaneous gusts as high as 40 mph. Gusts at these speeds can be observed tens of miles away from the core of the thunderstorm. * IMPACTS...Conditions may be favorable for rapid fire spread which may threaten life and property. Thunderstorm outflow winds may result in unanticipated erratic fire spread. High instability may result in fire growth. Frequent lightning and critically dry fuels may result in fire starts. The Red Flag Warning has been cancelled. 26 Aug 2025 at 9:50pm The Red Flag Warning has been cancelled and is no longer in effect. Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued August 26 at 8:39PM PDT until August 26 at... 26 Aug 2025 at 9:39pm The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. LIVE OREGON COAST / WASHINGTON COAST RADAR Astoria Traffic / Weather Cam Astoria - Warrenton - Gearhart Virtual Tour Where the Columbia meets the Pacific, Land of Lewis & Clark and loads of atmosphere & history Washington Coast Weather Where the Columbia meets the Pacific, Land of Lewis & Clark and loads of atmosphere & history Search over 7,500 Pages for Oregon coast subjects, articles or lodging... Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Above Oregon, Washington, Coastlines Right Now: Perseid, Capricornid Meteor Showers Published 07/18/25 at 7:35 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Newport, Oregon) Stargazing around the Pacific Northwest has been...well...awesome sauce, as of late. Clear nights around inland Oregon and Washington are yielding lofty bundles of pretty, sparkling sights, especially tons of satellites wandering up and down the skyline. (Photo NASA) Now, two meteor showers join the chat and the results are amazing: the Perseids just started and the Alpha Capricornids are approaching maximum. Around Oregon and Washington, the coast hasn't always been clear at night but when it does you'd better be ready for a show. The Alpha Capricornids are bouncing around above us now through August 15 with its peak on July 29 and 30, 2025. The moon will be about 27% full. They are not very strong and rarely shoot out more than five glowing balls per hour. However, what is notable about this shower is the number of bright fireballs produced during its run. Then there's the Perseids. They are the top dog, if this were any kind of celestial contest. These can produce some 50 to 75 shooting stars per hour at their peak, at least in rural areas where visibility is well stellar. Active from July 14 to September 1, they typically reach peak intensity on August 12 or 13, depending on the year. Under ideal conditions in rural areas, observers could see up to 100 streaks per hour. Star movement can look especially wondrous from Manzanita's Neahkahnie overlooks (Oregon Coast Beach Connection). Made of tiny space debris from the comet Swift-Tuttle, the Perseids are named after the constellation Perseus, said Jim Todd of Portland's OMSI. The Perseids are widely sought after by astronomers and stargazers because most years at its peak, one can see 60 to 100 meteors in an hour from a dark place. If you're heading to the Oregon coastline or Washington coast and the weather is clear, there are good chances you're going to get an eyeful. Really, that's true of the entire Pacific Northwest: from Spokane and Seattle to Westport, and from Pendleton to Cannon Beach, Forest Grove, Medford and Roseburg. Ecola State Park's Indian Beach - Cannon Beach (Oregon Coast Beach Connection) However, for the Perseids 2025 event, visibility will be significantly impacted: a waning gibbous moon will dominate the sky during peak nights, washing out the fainter meteors. As a result, skywatchers may see up to 75% fewer meteors than usual, with only the brightest streaks piercing through the moonlight. Still, catching sight of this current batch of meteor showers has been surprisingly good even in Portland. Satellite above Portland (Oregon Coast Beach Connection) Even with the moon fairly bright in recent nights, Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff have spotted at least a couple of shooting stars per viewing session, which has been 10 to 20 minutes outdoors. For satellites, it's not uncommon lately to see them flashing - or increasing and decreasing in glow. There have been several sightings of this per night, sometimes two or three within a few minutes of each other. Above Oregon Skies: Tons of Satellites, Some Burning / Blinking, Random Meteors Gleneden Beach (Oregon Coast Beach Connection) This happens because as some satellites catch the glinting of the sun - if they are either tumbling or rotating - this causes the reflection to change in intensity. The flashing effect or glow increase / decrease will happen at intervals of a couple to several seconds. It's fascinating to watch. Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Secluded N. Oregon Coast Villa Overlooks Cannon Beach, Peaks A massive vacation rental home near the Ecola State Park. Cannon Beach hotel reviews, Cannon Beach vacation rentals One of the True, Rare Historic Motor Lodges Left on Oregon Coast Agate Beach Motel in Newport goes all the way back to 1940. Hotel reviews, lodging 'Old Oregon Coast' Feel Meets Modern Swank at Manzanita Charmer Hotel Ocean Inn at Manzanita is woodsy yet bougie. Manzanita hotels, lodging reviews Raucous Oregon Coast View in Lincoln City or Depoe Bay Spotlighted in May Some of these sights cost a little less through mid May. Depoe Bay hotel reviews, Lincoln City hotel news More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Ken Kesey's Clifftop Oregon Coast Home Up for Sale, Vibes are Inspirational Published 07/21/25 at 5:35 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Yachats, Oregon) In that mystery land between Florence and Yachats, where you'll often find more beach accesses than humans, there is a bit of little known literary history atop one of those cliffs. While parts of the state and central Oregon coast like Depoe Bay, the Siletz River and Salem all have ties to writer Ken Kesey in one way or another, this area was actually his part time home. (Photos courtesy Marck Shipley - Hommati 181) And now the house that he used for inspiration is up for sale. It was recently listed by Shanna McCord with Fathom Realty for $699,000. Also known as a little vacation rental called the Key-Sea, it sits on 2.13 acres several miles from Yachats. It's been in the Kesey family for nearly 50 years, acquired by them sometime after relocating to Pleasant Hill and the Eugene area in the '70s, where the post-Beat writer would spend the rest of his life. The rest of his life when he wasn't here, to be exact. In a '90s video from National Geographic, he talks about the coast and coming out here to work. Indeed, he was certainly inspired here. Kesey said the ruggedness and the lack of modern world interference allowed his mind to wander new territory that surprised even him. Ancient spirits, ghosts and otherworldly things he didn't seem to have names for meandered through his imagination. the result of the constant lull of those waves. He asked himself: Why did this...or that...thought pop into his head? It was almost more Lovecraft than Kesey. All this happened after his run-ins with police and jail time in the '60s for smoking pot, and years and years after his apparently-unwilling participation in the CIA's despicable MKULTRA. He snagged this wonder spot well over a decade after he penned One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and Once A Great Notion the latter about Oregon. Both movies were filmed here. By the '70s, his wacky Further Bus side act had really started chugging along, and the Merry Pranksters were known for occasionally showing up at Nehalem Bay Winery on the north coast. Kesey even read his works there a couple times. Then when Kesey passed away in 2001, the house stayed with the family and was maintained by caretakers. At some point in the last 20 years it became the Key-Sea Vacation Rental: the website for that was still partially up the night of July 20, but now in the afternoon of July 21 it's gone. Things really do change all at once. It's now known as 95080 Highway 101 S, Yachats on Zillow. It has three bedroom and scores of fantastic views of surf, sea, sand and sky. As Kesey talked about, you can hear the waves crashing at all moments at all times. It's a soothing way to light up fires in your creative side. A wood-burning stove adds warmth and rustic charm, perfect for coastal evenings, the Zillow listing reads. Originally designed as a two-bedroom, one-bath home, the garage was thoughtfully converted into a spacious third bedroom, ideal for guests or creative use. The expansive, double-lot property offers over two acres of oceanfront potential imagine adding a guest house, new garage, or expanded living space, all with incredible views. It has a newer roof and fresh exterior paint, so maybe it's not hard to imagine Kesey looking down and smiling. See the link. Hotels in Yachats - Where to eat - Yachats Maps and Virtual Tours - Upper Lane County Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Constant Killer Views at One Cannon Beach Legend: Oregon Coast Travel Tips There's also deep history at this popular, luxury hotel. Cannon Beach hotel reviews, Cannon Beach lodging, Tolovana Inn, Manzanita hotel reviews, Seaside hotel reviews Sweeping Designs, Sights of N. Oregon Coast's Arch Cape, Away At Last Rental A mere 200 steps from the beach, near Cannon Beach. hotel reviews, lodging New at Neskowin: Vacation Rental a Gateway to Secluded, Even Exotic Stretch o... Neskowin North is just killin' it with oceanfront glory and a unique beach. Neskowing lodging reviews, Pacific City reviews, Pacific City hotels Off The Beaten Path In Lincoln City, View to Gnarly or Nice on Oregon Coast Nothing but surf and lovely amenities in a hidden part of Lincoln City. Lincoln City hotel reviews More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted An Oregon Coast Legend Reopens: Hotel Sylvia in Newport's Nye Beach in a New Century Published 07/22/25 at 5:55 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff Newport, Oregon What was old is new again and yet still old. That is one way to think of the new Hotel Sylvia, the "revised printing" of the Sylvia Beach Hotel in Newport. VIP Hospitality Group, LLC, a Pacific Northwestbased hospitality company, just recently officially unveiled Hotel Sylvia, a newly renovated and independently branded boutique hotel on the Oregon coast. The oceanfront retreat in Newport's historic Nye Beach area opened early in July, welcoming guests into a literary-inspired sanctuary that blends historic charm with modern coastal comfort. The building was originally built in 1913 as The Cliff House a hotel created at the first heyday of Nye Beach. In 1987, Portlanders Goody Cable (originator of the Rimsky-Korskacoffee House) and Sally Ford reopened it as the Sylvia Beach Hotel, which then saw almost 40 years of an outstanding, quirky presence with rooms built around the themes of famed authors. Brightly-decorated interiors were decorated with the vibes of Agatha Christie, Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Maya Angelou, Hemingway, Alice Walker and CS Lewis. Those, among others, are still there. Others, like the Edgar Allan Poe, JK Rowling or Dr Suess rooms are gone or were replaced years ago by Cable and Ford. Now, genre-themed interiors are part of the 22-unit beauty, such as rooms devoted to literary non-fiction, fantasy, historical novels or even romance or mystery. It's still a bookworm's dream. (Sylvia Beach Hotel in the early 2000s) Jenny Nelson, Vice President of Oregon Operations at VIP, said when they bought up the property a couple of years ago they wanted to stay true to that much loved reputation, remaining inspired by its approach and yet offering a smooth turn into the new century. We felt compelled and inspired to curate a hospitality environment that fosters connection, growth, and exploration, Nelson said. Throughout the renovation process, we remained committed to honoring the past while creating a space for meaningful guest experiences. The propertys transformation was led by design teams from Vida-Design and Fourth Wall Creative. Sheena Brittingham, Managing Partner of Vida, crafted interiors inspired by the golden hourcapturing the essence of the locations natural beauty and historic spirit. According to Russ Olivier, VP of Operations at VIP, the completed renovations enhanced the hotels structural sustainability and comfort, updating all guestrooms, bathrooms, and shared spaces with warm, inviting features. Staying true to the legendary Oregon coast hotel's ethos includes phones and televisions are still intentionally omitted from rooms to encourage guests to disconnect from everyday distractions. Instead, bookshelves line guest rooms of the Hotel Sylvia and common areas, stocked with a curated selection of classic and contemporary literature. A newly designed fourth-floor library offers a quiet retreat for reading and reflection. Guests can enjoy locally roasted Good Coffee, served complimentary in the first-floor lounge. Oceanfront fire pits and patio seating create relaxed opportunities to enjoy sunsets and conversation. The hotel also includes space for private dinners, holiday events, and small gatherings. The history of the hotel is a colorful one. At one point after the mid-century it became the Gilmore a low rent residential housing establishment. It took on various other uses, such as a Greyhound bus station and a boarding house. By the '70s and early '80s, Nye Beach was its absolute coolest or worst depending on whom you talk to. On one hand, nifty little seaside cottages were insanely cheap (compared to now), and it was at times a flourishing artist haven. On the other, it was kind of rundown and rife with substance abuse issues including some at the Gilmore. There was a wild party scene at the flophouse at times. In 1984, Cable and Ford acquired the building and refurbished it, reportedly saving it from eventual architectural doom. Three years later, Sylvia Beach Hotel was opened, using some of Cable's successful and quirky approach from the Rimsky-Korskacoffee House (which included figures dressed as famed composers). Except here, it was cleverly named for the American expatriate literary figure of Sylvia Beach, who owned a famed bookstore in Paris between the two world wars. A new neighborhood eatery Cafe Sylvia - is located on the lower level of the hotel. It is now open daily, offering house-made breakfast and brunch fare. It's open to the general public as well. Guests can sip Bloody Marys or dine on eggs Benedict while overlooking the Pacific from oceanfront tables. Hotel Sylvia is located at 267 NW Cliff Street, Newport, Oregon 97365. For more information, visit www.hotelsylvia.com Hotels in Newport - Where to eat - Newport Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Four Incredibly Cool Places to Play 'n Stay, Central Oregon Coast Sampling of four outstanding, cool and cajoling places at Lincoln City, Lincoln Beach and Newport. Lodging reviews, hotels, travel tips Rugged to Historic to Goofy Around Lincoln City, Depoe Bay: Oregon Coast Adve... A mix of wonder and humor: warm winter days, stellar coffee, exploration. Travel tips. Lodging reviews Secluded N. Oregon Coast Villa Overlooks Cannon Beach, Peaks A massive vacation rental home near the Ecola State Park. Cannon Beach hotel reviews, Cannon Beach vacation rentals Raucous Oregon Coast View in Lincoln City or Depoe Bay Spotlighted in May Some of these sights cost a little less through mid May. Depoe Bay hotel reviews, Lincoln City hotel news More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Shop At Docks Back and Expanded on Oregon Coast: Garibaldi, Charleston, Port Orford, Warrenton Published 07/20/25 at 9:35 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Newport, Oregon) - Oregon Sea Grants acclaimed Shop at the Dock and Discover Oregon Seafood tours are officially back for the summer, offering a firsthand glimpse into Oregon's commercial fishing industry from the working waterfronts of coastal communities. Participants are educated on seasonal catches, sustainable fishing practices, and how to safely and smartly shop for fish and shellfish directly off the boat. The programs teach the average Joe how to deal with boats on the docks and how to obtain the best quality of fish and shellfish. Participants learn about the local boats and they even get recipes for stellar seafood dishes. Plus, they sometimes meet the fishers who caught it. Tour stops include Ilwaco (on the Washington coast), Warrenton, Garibaldi, Newport, Winchester Bay, Charleston, Port Orford, and Brookings. Also see Manzanita Is Indeed 'Banana Belt' of N. Oregon Coast - Science Behind It - Curious weather science of how it can actually be a little sunnier in Manzanita than nearby Newports Shop at the Dock tours are first come, first served. For all other coastal locations, reserve a free ticket at Eventbrite. The tours are now live on Oregon Sea Grant Seafood Tours webpage and Facebook events. The Newport events will take place at Dock 5 on SW Bay Boulevard, with tours scheduled for July 25 and August 1 - 2. No tickets are required there. Tours begin at 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and 10:30 AM, and typically last 60 to 90 minutes. For other coastal locations, advance registration is available via Eventbrite. Details and updates are posted on the Oregon Sea Grant Seafood Tours webpage and Facebook events. Upcoming dates are: Ilwaco, Washington: Sept 20 Warrenton, Oregon: Sept 5, 12 Garibaldi, Oregon. Sept 19 Winchester Bay, Oregon. Aug 30 Charleston, Oregon. Aug 8 & 29 Port Orford, Oregon. Aug 22, Sept 5 Brookings, Oregon. Aug 23 Launched in Newport in 2014, the program has grown significantly, drawing more than 1,200 participants through 2021. Sea Grant then expanded to the north Oregon coast at Warrenton in 2017, and in 2018 tours debuted in Garibaldi. Brookings - Photo Manuela Durson - Manuela Durson Fine Arts According to Oregon Sea Grant, fishermen in Newport say they are now seeing regular, repeat customers over the years coming to buy fish all people that started at the Shop at the Docks programs in the beginning. Tour organizers advise bringing cash, a cooler with ice, and wearing shoes with good traction - the tours involve walking up to half a mile and prolonged standing. For groups of five or more attending Newport tours, arrangements can be made by calling (541) 648-6816. Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) Oregon Coast Thanksgiving? What Vacation Rentals Still Open in Rockaway Beach Big kitchens for the big day by the beach. Rockaway Beach hotels, Rockaway Beach rentals, lodging news, Manzanita hotel reviews Four Incredibly Cool Places to Play 'n Stay, Central Oregon Coast Sampling of four outstanding, cool and cajoling places at Lincoln City, Lincoln Beach and Newport. Lodging reviews, hotels, travel tips Glorious Ocean Views to October's Second Summer on Oregon Coast Two vacation homes in Lincoln City with expansive vistas. Lincoln City hotel reviews, specials Story of One Much-Lauded Lincoln City Icon Stretches Over 100 Years of Oregon... One of the historical gems that stands out is the Ester Lee Motel. Lodging reviews, hotel news Garibaldi Charleston - Photo Manuela Durson - Manuela Durson Fine Arts More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Wowing Oregon Coast Tradition on Display: Exhibit Looks at Pacific City's Dory Boats Published 07/19/25 at 6:35 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff (Pacific City, Oregon) - A traveling exhibition about a major Oregon coast tradition returns to Pacific City. (Photo Linfield University) Launching through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City is making its way back to the Kiawanda Community Center during the 2025 Dory Days celebration (happening now), offering a renewed glimpse into the rich maritime heritage that defines this coastal town. Developed in collaboration between Linfield University and the Pacific City Dorymens Association, the exhibit represents a portion of the longstanding oral history project that began in 2011 and continues to document the stories of the dory fishing community. To date, the initiative has recorded more than 100 interviews, collected over 15,000 photographs, and archived more than 300 hours of audio and video, capturing the lives and lore of fishers, families, boatbuilders, and fish buyers. Their voices are central to the exhibit, which features 25 interpretive panels highlighting the evolution of dory boats, the craft of boatbuilding, historic derbies, and the century-spanning legacy of Dory Days itself. New this year are three featured displays: a visual nod to the 2025 Dory Days theme Christmas in July by local photographer Tyrone Marshall, a selection of evocative vintage images, and a curated spotlight on the work of Sandra Sandy Weedman, also known as the PC Photo Lady. The dories are known for their dramatic way of launching west into the often-breathtaking waves and return with thrilling slides onto the beach. They are a legend in this part of the north Oregon coast. Visitors can experience the full exhibit on Sunday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kiawanda Community Center, located at 34600 Cape Kiwanda Drive. A mini-version of the exhibition featuring seven panels will be on display at the Oregon Coast Bank, 35490 Airport Way, throughout July during regular business hours. Also making its debut during this years festivities is Dory Fishers Sand Kickin and Story Tellin, a live storytelling event inspired by the oral history project. The session will be held Sunday, July 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m., also at the Kiawanda Community Center. Featured storytellers include Steve Johnson, this years Dory Days Parade Grand Marshal, as well as Lee Peterson, David Sears, Randy Haltiner, Brent Foster, Brad Foster, Ray Monroe, and Pam Learned. Each will share personal accounts celebrating life on the sea and the enduring camaraderie of the dory fleet. Hotels in Pacific City - Where to eat - Pacific City Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW OREGON COAST HOTEL REVIEWS (hit refresh to see different reviews) A Literal Hideaway at N. Oregon Coast's Cape Meares, Up Against Bayocean's Re... Cape Meares Hide-A-Away tucked behind dense forest with beach views. Oceanside hotel reviews, Tillamook hotel reviews, Rockaway Beach hotel reviews, Pacific City hotel reviews Two Shimmering Examples of Oregon Coast Historical Inns at Lincoln City To get a truly historic experience, however, you have to go back a ways. Lincoln City hotel reviews 'Old Oregon Coast' Feel Meets Modern Swank at Manzanita Charmer Hotel Ocean Inn at Manzanita is woodsy yet bougie. Manzanita hotels, lodging reviews Little Lincoln City Motel is Historic Oregon Coast 'Motor Inn' Features Dec Special Prices - Whistling Winds Motel in Lincoln City is nearly a century. Lincoln City hotels, Lincoln City reviews More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles) Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted There is a revelation within the Democratic Socialists, which is creating a newfound discovery that masks are bad or wrong for society, and should not be worn by certain groups; currently the rancor is to unmask ICE agents: What is your opinion on the wearing of masks? 84.62% Yes, ICE agents should wear masks if it keeps them safe from the threat of doxing.7.69% No, ICE agents must be forced to reveal their true selves; however, wearing masks while rioting and looting is within the bounds of the Leftist dictum.7.69% I wear masks often at Halloween. UPDATE: President Trump and AG Pam Bondi have thwarted a sinister Democrat Judicial insurrection in New Jersey that had appeared to have ousted Interim US Attorney Alina Habba. Habba is now back in place as Acting US Attorney. Because the GOP Senate leadership under Thune has been inefficient, Habba had not been brought up for a confirmation vote yet and her 120 days in interim capacity as US Attorney for New Jersey was about to expire. It is routine for such terms to just be extended, but in this case Democrat House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries demanded that the overwhelming Democrat majority of federal district judges in New Jersey vote to oust her from her position. Jeffries publicly demanded that they oust Habba over the justified indictment of a Democrat congresswoman who is on video physically assaulting ICE officers. The Democrat judges bowed to Jeffries' demands in blatantly partisan fashion. Pam Bondi also fired the woman that the Democrat judges tried to insert in Habba's place, so that she no longer even works for the US Attorney's Office. Thanks to partisan Democrat judges, our federal courts are now a regular Tammany Hall. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/07/breaking-trump-bondi-outmaneuver-corrupt-judges-appoint-alina/ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ORIGINAL ARTICLE: In a partisan campaign orchestrated by House Democrat leader Hakeem Jeffries, the Democrat judges in New Jersey, appointed by Obama and by Biden's autopen, have voted to oust President Trump's appointee as US Attorney for New Jersey. They replaced her with a holdover Democrat, who was then fired by US Attorney General Pam Bondi. This ouster of Habba could only happen because John Thune has been very slack getting confirmations through the Senate. "US Attorney Habba has been doing a great job making New Jersey safe again," Bondi declared, "Nonetheless, politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position." She added "The Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges, especially when they threaten the President's core Article II powers." The Democrats targeted Habba because she dared prosecute a radical Democrat congresswoman who assaulted ICE officers. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/07/breaking-ag-bondi-immediately-fires-alina-habbas-replacement/ https://dailycaller.com/2025/07/22/federal-judges-decline-to-keep-alina-habba-as-prosecutor/ One of America's top experts on Constitutional Law, Harvard University Law Professor Emeritus Alan Dershowitz has called the action of the New Jersey Democrat judges "Unconstitutional". https://dailycaller.com/2025/07/23/alan-dershowitz-needs-just-4-words-to-describe-alina-habbas-ouster-by-obama-biden-judges/ Two former financial market traders jailed over interest rate benchmark manipulation are set to find out if their Supreme Court bids to clear their names have been successful. The Fountain bonfire with a sign saying 'Taigs out' alongside crosshairs. The bonfire under construction at Meenan Square in Derry The DUP has been accused of double standards for calling out inaction over a republican bonfire while failing to deal with issues in other areas and refusing to introduce regulations. This newspaper first reported that a person was hospitalised after an incident at the site in Derry's Meenan Square last week. On Radio Foyle this morning, East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell accused Sinn Fein of being in absentia in the past few days. He said that everybody knows every year that this bonfire causes a problem and a series of problems on occasions. Mr Campbell added that, in previous years, the bonfire has contained offensive items such as poppy wreaths and flags, and that shots have been fired in the vicinity. He said there needs to be a statement of intent from Sinn Fein that they intend to work with the police and with the local community in the Bogside to make sure that doesn't happen this year. Mr Campbell pointed to the close proximity of the unionist Fountain estate as well. It comes after DUP MLA Gary Middleton warned of a void of political leadership, saying it is time Sinn Fein stepped up and made clear this situation is unacceptable. He said the bonfire has been a source of serious concern for some time, causing disruption, raising safety fears. However, the SDLP said it is a bit rich to hear the DUP call for leadership around bonfires given their failure to deal with these issues in other areas and their refusal to consider any kind of regulation in the past. The Bogside bonfire is due to be lit in mid-August at the site managed by Apex Housing, with 11m redevelopment plans repeatedly delayed because it cannot find a contractor willing to remove bonfire materials. Construction is not due to begin until next year. The DUP was asked if Mr Middleton or Mr Campbell have condemned loyalist bonfires including the Fountain pyre that contained a sign reading Taigs out beside crosshairs in the run up to the Twelfth. The Fountain bonfire with a sign saying 'Taigs out' alongside crosshairs. The party has not responded. On Radio Foyle, Mr Campbell was also asked if his position could be viewed as hypocritical as his party opposed the removal of a bonfire in south Belfast which was built on a site containing asbestos and reportedly posed a separate risk to the power supply to local hospitals. He responded by saying DUP councillors worked on the ground to ensure there were no problems and criticised hyping in the media. The bonfire under construction at Meenan Square in Derry Watch: Controversial Village bonfire in Belfast goes ahead after council order for removal Addressing criticism, Sinn Fein Foyle MLA Ciara Ferguson said the planned anti-community bonfires in Derry are in stark contrast to the hundreds of positive alternative events taking place in the city this summer. There is no place for these bonfires in our society which attract anti-social behaviour, and threaten the health and wellbeing of local residents," she added. Their safety must come first. Hundreds of positive events are set to take place right across Derry this August. Fantastic work is being done by a wide group of organisations to celebrate art, sport, music, our heritage and culture, while also discussing and debating the important issues of the day. Derry is a city bursting with pride and potential. The images portrayed this summer must project a community that is working together to move forward and build a better future. We have an incredible story to tell. Lets ensure it continues to be told in the right way. Last year, Union flags, a King Charles coronation flag, and an Israeli flag were displayed on the pyre along with offensive banners, prompting the PSNI to confirm it was treating the incident as a hate crime. A year previously, police launched an investigation after shots were fired near the site. In 2021, posters placed on the bonfire made reference to former PSNI chief Simon Byrne and murdered Catholic officer Ronan Kerr. Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said: The SDLPs position is clear that we would prefer there to be no bonfires taking place in our city, but the Executive's failure to regulate bonfires means that depressingly, and predictably, communities continue to be challenged by these issues every summer. In the absence of an agreed way forward, steps will have to be taken to manage this bonfire safely so that it passes off with minimal harm to our environment and the local community. The Executive Offices inability to progress the Meenan Square project is partly why we find ourselves in this situation again and the blame for that cannot be laid at the feet of young people in the Bogside. Mr Durkan encouraged young people to participate in the many alternative events on offer as he made a direct plea to bonfire organisers to refrain from the burning of any flags, symbols or effigies. "We have seen some sickening displays of hate recently and I really hope that young people here can rise above such activity, he added. The SDLP will continue working with community leaders to make every effort to ensure this bonfire passes off without incident. Bonfires are traditional in some nationalist areas to mark the Catholic Feast of the Assumption with some pyres lit to commemorate the introduction of internment without trial of republican suspects during the Troubles. Conspiracy-driven arson attacks risk lives by diverting service Firefighters deal with an arson attacks at a 5G mast on the Monagh Bypass earlier in the year (Kevin Scott) It has cost the Fire Service more than 10,000 to respond to 25 attacks on 5G masts since the beginning of 2022, it has emerged. Triple murder and attempted suicide is one line of inquiry Police confirm surviving individual is male adult999 call made from inside the property Emergency services at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Emergency services at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Emergency services at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Forensics at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The PSNI is probing a triple murder and attempted suicide as a line of inquiry after three people were killed in a shooting in Co Fermanagh on Wednesday morning. Police said four people from the same household sustained gunshot wounds at a house on Drummeer Road in Maguiresbridge. Two people were pronounced dead at the scene and the third person was taken by the Air Ambulance to South West Acute Hospital where they later passed away. The fatalities include two children one boy and one girl and a woman in her 40s. A man remains in serious condition in the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. While the investigation is still at an early stage, District Commander Superintendent Robert McGowan confirmed a triple-murder and attempted suicide is being pursued as a line of enquiry as well as a mental health aspect to the case. We have now commenced a murder investigation and are working at pace to determine the circumstances he said. This is a quiet a rural location and Im aware that this tragic event will send shockwaves and sadness throughout the community. "Please be assured that you will see a continued police presence in the area as we continue to carry out our enquiries. During a media briefing on Wednesday afternoon, Superintendent McGowan said the surviving individual is a male adult and has a "limited footprint" with police. The officer added there is a "limited domestic history involving those in the household as he said police believe the alarm was raised from inside the house. He said: The alarm was raised I believe by a phone call made from the house. The PSNI said it is not anticipated at this stage that any further arrests will be made. Forensics at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Two people dead and two in hospital following shooting in NI village Forensic officers have been gathering clues at the property throughout Wednesday afternoon. Police, paramedics, and the Air Ambulance were despatched following the emergency call with the PSNI describing the scene as harrowing. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said it received a 999 call at 8.21am and dispatched three emergency ambulances, one rapid response paramedic, two ambulance officers and an ambulance doctor to the scene. In a statement Superintendent McGowan said: Earlier this morning, Wednesday 23 July, police received the report of an incident in Maguiresbridge. Officers, along with our colleagues in the Northern Ambulance Service, attended a house in the Drummeer Road area. Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has, this afternoon, passed away in hospital. A fourth person who was taken to hospital remains in a condition described as serious. All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household. I am keen to, first and foremost, express my sympathy to family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock, and who will inevitably be struggling to come to terms with their unimaginable loss. Superintendent McGowan continued: Our enquiries are at an early stage, and I would appeal for patience as we work to understand the events that have taken place. We will continue to bring updates as our investigation continues." First Minister Michelle ONeill said she was heartbroken following the news. "My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and the local community, she wrote online. "I have no doubt that the people of Maguiresbridge will come together and support one another though this incredibly difficult time. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly described the incident as terrible news. "Truly devastating to hear of this terrible and violent event, she wrote. My thoughts at this dreadful time are with the loved ones, family and friends but most of all for the tragedy of the lives cut off so cruelly." Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said his thoughts are with the victims, families of the deceased and the local community following the deeply distressing tragedy. I would urge the public not to speculate and to allow the PSNI to continue their investigation, he added. Dame Arlene Foster who grew up and still lives in Co Fermanagh described the incident as a horrific act. Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The former First Minister and ex-DUP leader posted: The news from Maguiresbridge this morning is devastating beyond words. "I am so very sorry for the family involved and praying for all impacted by this horrific act. Meanwhile St Marys Maguiresbridge Gaelic Football Club and Lisbellaw St. Patricks Hurling Club both offered their heartfelt condolences and said the deceased were all active and beloved members of both clubs. We are working with the GAA at county, provincial and national level, to implement the Associations critical incident protocols, they both posted on social media. We will work closely with all appropriate services to ensure that those who require support at this difficult time can access it. Local UUP councillor Victor Warrington told the Belfast Telegraph it is a very sad situation. Everybody in the wider community is devastated with the news. "This is an area where everyone know everyone, and everyone looks out for each other, so this will cause a lot of sadness for a lot of people. "My thoughts are will the family and friends of those affected, he said. Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) SDLP leader Claire Hanna described the shooting as an unspeakable tragedy which will leave people across the island shocked and saddened. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those killed and injured as they come to terms with what has happened here. "We are also thinking of people in Maguiresbridge who are dealing with an incident like this taking place on their doorsteps. I would urge the public to give the police space as they investigate what happened here and encourage people to show respect and decency, particularly online, and to avoid speculating as those impacted process this news. Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen also offered her sympathies to the families of those involved. Speaking at the police cordon to the Belfast Telegraph she thanked emergency services for working under such "tragic circumstances. Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Diana Armstrong said it was heartbreaking and distressing news. "The loss of life and the serious injuries reported have shocked the local community, she said. "My office has been in contact with the PSNI this morning and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely. The Emergency services acted swiftly and professionally. "My thoughts are with the families of those affected and with everyone in this rural local community as they come to terms with this tragedy. I ask that the public allow space for the investigation to proceed and respect the privacy of those involved at this difficult time. Local MLA Deborah Erskine said the entire community is stunned. Emergency services at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) "The area of Maguiresbridge where this has happened is a rural, quiet area and everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning, she said. My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning. This morning I was speaking to Police dealing with the incident. I paid tribute to the emergency services at the scene. I also appeal for privacy to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations. Warmer summers could boost the growth of European Peatlands, according to research (Richard Fewster/PA) Warmer summers could help boost growth rates in European peatlands, new research has found. The peatlands, which contain around half of Europes soil carbon, need a combination of warm temperatures and a water table of around 10cm to thrive, researchers at Queens University Belfast found. Peatlands form where there is a sustained build-up of partially decomposed plant matter, and they play a very important role in locking away greenhouse gases and absorbing industrial pollution. They contain approximately five times more carbon than its forests. However, European peatlands have been damaged by human activities including pollution, draining and climate change. Professor Graeme Swindles from the School of Natural and Built Environment at Queens University has been leading a team examining peat accumulation rates, studying cores from 28 peat bogs across Europe. The study, which has now been published in research journal PLOS One, reveals that the fastest peat accumulation nearly 0.5cm per year occurred around the Baltic Sea, at sites in Denmark, Poland, Sweden, and Finland which experience warm and humid summers. The slowest peat accumulation was measured in northern Sweden, which experiences cold winters and a short growing season. Across all sites, peat was found to have accumulated fastest in regions with warm summer temperatures, which improves plant growth, and a water table around 10cm below the surface. Professor Swindles said the study suggests that warmer summer temperatures could boost growth rates in European peatlands but only if the water table stays high enough. We also found that maintaining a water table around 10cm below the surface is key to allowing peat to grow quickly and store carbon over the long term, he said. These findings strengthen current evidence and have important implications for how we restore and rewet peatlands as part of global efforts to tackle climate change. Professor Swindles has also suggested that previous peatland restoration programs should be evaluated to determine if their relative successes or deficiencies corroborate these findings. And then there were six: Who are the contenders for the Irish presidency? A general view of the Criminal Courts of Justice (Brian Lawless/PA) A psychiatric report on Riad Bouchaker, who is charged with attempting to murder three children and assaulting a care worker during an incident in Dublin, is being assessed by the prosecution, a court has been told. Mr Bouchaker, of no fixed abode, was charged with the attempted murder of two female children and one male child. He was also charged with the assault causing serious harm to a care worker. He was further charged with three counts of assault causing harm as well as the possession and production of a 36cm kitchen knife. The incident happened at Parnell Square on November 23 2023. A senior counsel for Mr Bouchaker told the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday that a psychiatric report has been made available to the DPP. A prosecution barrister said that the report is being assessed by Dr OConnell. Mr Justice Paul McDermott put the matter back for mention to October 22. Justice McDermott told the court on Wednesday that cases involving young children should be given priority and noted the ages of the complainants. A five-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s were left in a critical condition in hospital after the attack near a school on November 23. Two other young children, a five-year-old boy and six-year-old girl, were also injured. The attack happened hours before a riot broke out in the city centre of the capital. Former culture secretary Lord Chris Smith has been elected as the next chancellor of the University of Cambridge (University of Cambridge/PA) Former culture secretary Lord Chris Smith has been elected as the next chancellor of the University of Cambridge. Lord Smith beat nine other candidates, including broadcaster Sandi Toksvig and anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller, in the race for the historic position. It comes after Lord Sainsbury of Turville announced last year that he intended to step down after more than a decade in the role. Lord Smith, the outgoing Master of Pembroke College in Cambridge and former Labour culture secretary under Sir Tony Blair, will hold the office for 10 years, the university announced on Wednesday. The election for the chancellor was opened to online voting for the first time, and more than 23,000 alumni and staff participated. In addition, nearly 2,000 chose to vote in person at the universitys Senate House in Cambridge. The chancellor, a position which stretches back more than 800 years, is the universitys formal and ceremonial head. They have no executive responsibilities, but they will be a part in advising senior members of the institution, fundraising, and acting as an ambassador for Cambridge. Lord Smith, who will step down as Master of Pembroke College later this month after a decade in the role, said: To be elected as chancellor of the university I love is a huge honour. Im thrilled. I look forward to being the best possible ambassador for Cambridge, to being a strong voice for higher education more generally, and to working closely together with the vice-chancellor and her team. Lord Smith served as secretary of state for culture, media and sport between 1997 and 2001. He stood down as an MP in 2005 and was made a life peer. He was also chairman of the Environment Agency from 2008 to 2014, and chairman of the Advertising Standards Authority between 2007 and 2017. Professor Deborah Prentice, vice-chancellor of the University of Cambridge, said: On behalf of everyone at the university, I offer my warm congratulations to Chris on his election. I very much look forward to working with him and building on the strong relationship that we have developed since I became vice-chancellor. Chris has had a long involvement with the university and brings a wealth of relevant experience to this important role. I would like to thank the other nine candidates for standing for the role and their willingness to serve Cambridge. Candidates standing to be the chancellor had to secure at least 50 nominations from alumni and current staff who are members of the Regent House, the universitys governing body. The election was held between July 9-18 and was conducted under the single transferable vote system. In the final round, Lord Smith received 10,569 votes, 2,129 more than second-placed candidate Dr Mohamed El-Erian, president of Queens College, Cambridge, who received 8,440 votes. QI host and former The Great British Bake Off presenter Ms Toksvig, who had hoped to become the first female Cambridge chancellor, came third. Lord Smith also defeated Lord Browne, former BP boss, Cambridge astrophysicist Professor Wyn Evans and businesswoman Mrs Miller. In his candidate statement for chancellor, Lord Smith, who became the UKs first openly gay MP in 1984, highlighted his commitment to diversity, openness and ethics and freedom of speech. He said: We live in a dangerous world of misinformation and fake news. Universities are the places where facts are researched and honoured, where information is discovered and tested and debated. It is why a genuine commitment to freedom of speech is so important. Lord Smith, who studied English at Pembroke College, Cambridge, said: It is no accident that the first target of autocrats everywhere is education; tyrants do not want people to have and acquire knowledge. The Chancellor has above all to be an advocate for the vital importance of knowledge and expertise. Humza Yousaf and his wife councillor Nadia El-Nakla urges world leaders to take action against Israel over its treatment of Palestinians (Jane Barlow/PA) The former first minister of Scotland has said Israel is starving his wifes family in Gaza. Humza Yousaf and his wife Nadia El-Nakla said her cousin Sally, her four children and husband were being deliberately and forcefully starved by the Israeli government. Ms El-Nakla, an SNP councillor in Dundee, said her aunt Hanan, her children and grandchildren, including a seven-month-old baby, were also being starved. She said the town of Deir Al Balah, where her family live, was hit hard by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). Starving people were being forced to run while being shot and bombed, she said in a video alongside her husband on social media. 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 Yousaf said children in Gaza were being starved, displaced, bombed, all while the world watches. The former SNP leader said: Sally is one of millions in Gaza. Her husband goes out all day searching for food, often to come home with nothing. And when I say home, I mean a tent and almost 40 degree heat. He said that doctors in Gaza were becoming too weak to treat patients while journalists were becoming too weak to report the silent killer of starvation. This is a deliberate starvation of the Palestinian people, Ms El-Nakla added. Food and water are a mere kilometres away. This form of warfare is sickening and the stories and images from my family and millions of others in Gaza are absolutely gut-wrenching. Can you imagine not being able to feed your children yet knowing the food you so desperately need is only a few miles away? Humza Yousaf said the world was watching as Gaza is being starved (Andrew Milligan/PA) She went on: Sallys life matters, Palestinian lives matter, and I am begging those who have the power to open the borders to do so now and let the people of Gaza live. Mr Yousaf urged world leaders to take action to force Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. He said: Fathers like me, parents like us, children like ours, being starved, displaced, bombed, all while the world watches. Governments might stay silent, they may refuse to act, but we wont. Writing on X, he added: Words are not enough. Governments must act and force Israel to open the borders and allow aid to flow in. More than 100 aid agencies have warned that mass starvation is spreading across Gaza as Israel is accused of not allowing enough food, and other supplies, into the area. The health ministry said 10 people have died from malnutrition in the last 24 hours. The UK was among 28 nations that accused Israel of the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians seeking food and water. The Palestinian health ministry said earlier this week that 100 Palestinians had been killed by the IDF while waiting for food over the weekend. The UK Government is facing calls to pressure Israel into allowing more aid into Gaza (Jeff Moore/PA) Israel said on Tuesday that 950 lorries worth of aid were waiting in Gaza for international organisations to distribute. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas, the proscribed terrorist group which controls Gaza, of stealing the food for itself. Mr Yousaf previously described the situation in Gaza as hell on Earth. Ms El-Naklas parents, Maged and Elizabeth El-Nakla, had been trapped in the enclave for four weeks after visiting family when the war broke out after Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. They later left through Egypt with other British nationals, although Mr Yousaf said his father-in-law had become a shell of a man following their traumatic month in Gaza. The UK Government and the Israeli embassy in London have been approached for comment. More women and children have been killed in Israeli strikes, officials said (AP) More than 100 charity and human rights groups have said that Israels blockade and ongoing military offensive are pushing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip towards starvation. The organisations raised their concerns as Israeli strikes killed another 21 people overnight, according to local health officials. Meanwhile, the US administrations Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, was set to meet with a senior Israeli official about ceasefire talks, a sign that lower-level negotiations that have dragged on for weeks could be approaching a breakthrough. Experts say Gaza is at risk of famine because of Israels blockade and offensive, launched in response to Hamass attack on October 7 2023. Israel says it allows enough aid into the territory and faults delivery efforts by UN agencies, which say they are hindered by Israeli restrictions and the breakdown of security. 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 Hamas has said it will only release the remaining 50 hostages it holds, around 20 of them believed to be alive, in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal, while Israel has vowed to recover all the captives and continue the war until Hamas has been defeated or disarmed. In an open letter, 115 organisations, including major international aid groups such as Doctors Without Borders, Mercy Corps and Save the Children, said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. It blamed Israeli restrictions and massacres at aid distribution points. Witnesses, health officials and the UN human rights office say Israeli forces have repeatedly fired on crowds seeking aid, killing more than 1,000 people. Israel says its forces have only fired warning shots and that the death toll is exaggerated. The government of Israels restrictions, delays and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation and death, the letter said. Israels Foreign Ministry rejected the criticism and accused the groups of echoing Hamass propaganda. It said it has allowed around 4,500 aid trucks to enter Gaza since lifting a complete blockade in May, and that more than 700 are waiting to be picked up and distributed by the United Nations. Israeli activists take part in a protest against the war in the Gaza Strip (AP) That is an average of around 70 trucks a day, the lowest rate of the war and far below the 500-600 trucks a day the UN says are needed, and which entered during a six-week ceasefire earlier this year. The UN says it has struggled to deliver aid inside Gaza because of Israeli military restrictions, ongoing fighting, and a breakdown of law and order. An alternative system established by Israel and an American contractor has been marred by violence and controversy. An official familiar with ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas said Ron Dermer, a top adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was travelling to Rome to meet Mr Witkoff on Thursday to discuss the state of the talks. US officials said Mr Witkoff planned to head to Europe this week. The State Department spokesperson said he was headed to the Middle East in a sign that momentum may be building towards a deal. The evolving deal, which is still being hammered out, is expected to include a 60-day ceasefire in which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others in phases in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Aid supplies would be ramped up and the two sides would hold negotiations on a lasting truce. 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 Israel has continued to carry out waves of daily air strikes against what it says are militant targets but which often kill women and children. Israel blames civilian deaths on Hamas because the militants operate in densely populated areas. Strikes overnight and into Wednesday killed at least 21 people, more than half of them women and children, according to local health officials. One of the strikes hit a house in Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The dead included six children and two women, according to Gazas Health Ministry. The Israeli military said it struck an Islamic Jihad militant, and that the incident was under review because of reports of civilian casualties. Another strike hit an apartment in northern Gaza, killing at least six people. Among the dead were three children and two women, including one who was pregnant. Eight others were wounded, the ministry said. Palestinians are relying on aid in an increasingly dire humanitarian situation (AP) A third strike hit a tent in Gaza City late Tuesday and killed three children, Shifa Hospital said. In central Gaza, a strike in a densely populated part of the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp killed eight people and wounded 57, according to Awda Hospital, which received the casualties. Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in the October 7 attack, and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed during the war, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its count does not distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. The UN and other international organisations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties. Palestinians, mostly children, push to receive a hot meal at a charity kitchen in the Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip. Babies that were just whispers of skin and bone died as their mothers were too starved to produce milk to feed them. Even the medics trying to treat the malnourished at Shifa Hospital in north Gaza are so hungry and sick themselves that some have fainted and been treated with intravenous fluids. Palestinian health officials say at least 101 people have died of hunger during the conflict, including 80 children, most of them in recent weeks. Even people trying to get food from aid sites are putting their lives at risk. The U.N. human rights office said Tuesday that more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor. As more than 100 human rights groups and charities demand more aid for Gaza in a letter published on Wednesday, a doctor has revealed the scale of the horror as the besieged enclaves food crisis continues to deepen. Shifa Hospitals director, Mohammed Abu Salmiya, told The Independent that at least three children have died from malnutrition in his own wards alone. The children arrived in a critical condition. They were just skin and bones. All vital organs were failing. They were on their last gasp, he said in desperation. There is no baby formula. There is no food. Even the milk in the mothers' breasts has dried up. He said his own staff are also hungry, working day and night shifts with no food, and often unable to help. Some medical staff were admitted to the hospital to receive intravenous fluids, he added. The head of the UNs Palestinian refugee agency said on Tuesday that its staff, as well as doctors and humanitarian workers, were fainting on duty in Gaza due to hunger and exhaustion. No one is spared: caretakers in Gaza are also in need of care. Doctors, nurses, journalists and humanitarians are hungry, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said. Israeli forces have, according to Palestinian health officials, killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in its unprecedented bombardment of Gaza in response to attacks on Israel by the Hamas militants that killed 1,200 people and captured at least 250 hostages in October 2023. The latest Israeli strikes killed at least 21 people late Tuesday and early Wednesday. But for the first time since the war began, Palestinian officials say people are now dying of hunger by the dozens. A top UN official has blamed Israel for subjecting Gaza to a forced starvation with its blockade on aid. On Tuesday the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the situation for the 2.3 million residents of the Palestinian enclave a "horror show" as the humanitarian system has collapsed. Rights groups like Amnesty International have said there is evidence pointing to Israels continued use of starvation to inflict genocide against Palestinians. At the same time there have been multiple massacres at food distribution points. The World Food Programme said crowds of Palestinians desperate to get aid from a rare WFP convoy that entered Gaza on Sunday came under fire from Israeli tanks, snipers and other gunfire. Eyewitnesses told The Independent they were shelled and shot while trying to get bags of flour. In total, the UN has confirmed that over 870 Palestinians have been killed while trying to seek aid at distribution points. The Independent reached out to the Israeli military for comment but has yet to receive a reply. Israel has repeatedly and vehemently denied committing any crimes in Gaza, including weaponising hunger or targeting civilians at aid distribution points. The Israeli authorities have repeatedly accused Hamas of stealing aid to fuel its own warfare. On Monday, COGAT the Israeli military agency overseeing aid deliveries into Gaza said there is no ban or restriction on the entry of baby formula or baby food into Gaza. Our commitment remains firm: to support humanitarian aid for civilians, not for Hamas, it said. However, the reality on the ground has become so horrifying that Israel is facing mounting pressure from its allies to end the war and allow unfettered aid in. On Tuesday, the UKs foreign secretary David Lammy suggested in interviews with broadcasters Israel could face further sanctions from the UK if it does not agree to a ceasefire in Gaza, adding he feels "appalled" and "sickened" by Israel's actions. The day before, he had joined counterparts from 24 other nations, including Canada and Japan, in issuing a rare blunt statement warning that the suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths, and urging Israel that the war must end now. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen , meanwhile said on Tuesday that images of civilians killed during the distribution of aid were "unbearable" and urged Israel to deliver on pledges to improve the situation. Aid agencies and news organisations have sounded the alarm about their staffers. The journalists' association of the French wire service Agence France-Presse (AFP) warned on Monday that staff working with the agency in Gaza are at risk of starvation and that "without intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die." The Norwegian Refugee Council, said its aid stocks were now depleted and some of its own staff were starving. "Our last tent, our last food parcel, our last relief items have been distributed. There is nothing left," its director Jan Egeland told Reuters. "Israel is not yielding. They just want to paralyse our work," he said. On the ground, civilians said they are nearing the end. Three days ago, flour almost disappeared, and the price of a kilo reached $50 [37], said Ihab Abudallah, a university lecturer who has to support a family of nine. We are in a situation where we cannot buy food even if we have money. Wajih Al-Najjar, 70, from Gaza City, who is supporting a family of 13, said that a kilo of rice had reached $30 [22] and a kilo of sugar had reached nearly $100 [74]. We have all become hungry and can barely eat one meal a day if we can afford it, he said. People are forced to go to death in search of some aid. Belfast nurse-turned-novelist on her Troubles tale that had to be told: You had to cope with it and never cry 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. PITTSFIELD On some mornings, Steven Valenti arrives to open his store on North Street and discovers signs that someone slept on his doorstep the previous night. As he or his staff clean up the food wrappers, empty water bottles or debris from drug use, Valenti, who owns Steven Valenti Clothing for Men, often thinks about the city he wants Pittsfield to be. A beacon for investment. A haven for tourists and second-home owners. A competitor with Great Barrington, Williamstown, Stockbridge and Lenox. Its a vision that has no room for people sleeping in the doorways of North Street, Valenti said. If I saw people sleeping in the park and I got panhandled on the way, I would definitely think about not wanting to invest in downtown, Valenti said. Some other North Street business owners share Valentis frustration. They have taken their concerns to Mayor Peter Marchetti, and said they are pleased with what appears to be an outcome of those conversations a proposed ordinance that would ban people from sleeping or creating temporary shelters on all public property in the city. But other downtown store owners, along with housing advocates and community leaders, said homeless people arent holding Pittsfield back from becoming the city Valenti envisions theyre just a convenient, and visible, population to blame. Those store owners and advocates also envision a future where no one is sleeping on the streets. But they caution that the ordinance, if passed as is, would worsen rather than solve the citys homelessness problem especially as housing costs continue to rise. Downtown has the most amazing potential," said Danielle Munn, owner of Witch Slapped, another downtown business. "But it starts with the actual community, not store owners who dont like to see poverty. We have to accept the fact that this is our community; the good, the bad, the ugly, the perfect." Over the past five years, Valenti said hes seen an uptick in the number of people panhandling on North Street, and sleeping in the doorways of his store and neighboring businesses. That time frame lines up with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which research has shown worsened the housing shortage nationally and here in the Berkshires. People moved up to the Berkshires, permanently or to purchase second homes, and investment companies bought houses and apartments to flip for a profit. Local housing costs skyrocketed, and subsidized housing and shelter capacity couldnt keep up with the growing number of people priced out of their long-term homes. In January 2020, at least 182 people in the Berkshires were experiencing homelessness on a single night, according to the Three County Continuum of Care, an organization that combats homelessness in Western Massachusetts. Last year, that number peaked at 397 people, before falling slightly to 308 people this January. But shelter workers said those are undercounts. When people dont have a bed at the shelter or a friend or family member with whom to couch surf, some will seek shelter in the doorways of downtown Pittsfield. Sleeping downtown offers people visibility and greater safety, Cheryl Callahan, a lieutenant with the Pittsfield Police Department, told the City Council's Public Health and Safety Committee earlier this month. Theyre less likely to be abused, attacked, their items stolen, Callahan said. At least to them, they know that we see them. Thats their survival mechanism. Valenti and his son and business partner, Evan Valenti, said they are not unsympathetic to the people who seek shelter in their doorway at night. It seems to me that the people that need help arent getting the help that they really need," Evan Valenti said. "And thats upsetting because everybody in life needs help with something, whether its a substance abuse thing, a mental health thing or a housing shortage thing. But they are also frustrated, and theyre not the only ones. We as store owners have to come up every morning and deal with their dinner wrappings and their use sometimes of the doorways as a bathroom facility or as a facility for the taking of drugs, Steven Valenti said. Bart Raser, who owns Carr Hardware on North Street, said the number of people shoplifting from the store, panhandling outside and sleeping behind the shop at night has grown, and created a serious problem for his business. "We have six locations, five of which are in the Berkshires. The other five are busy and footsteps continue to go up and business continues to go up. In downtown Pittsfield, footsteps continue to drop," Raser said. Customers have begun to frequent other locations, and employees have expressed fear about walking to their cars alone in the evening, Raser said. In an effort to address those concerns, Raser has started to regularly ban customers who shoplift and "harass" other customers from returning to the store. Raser and Valenti are just two store owners who have taken their concerns to the mayor and pushed for a solution. Ive talked to Peter about this many times. My son has talked to him. Bart Raser has talked to him. The Tierneys have talked to him. Weve all talked to him, Valenti said. He listens and hes trying very hard to come up with a solution. Two years ago, Laurie and David Tierney, who own Hotel on North, convened an invite-only forum where she and other downtown business owners discussed the same concerns with then-mayoral candidates Peter Marchetti and John Krol. At the time, Marchetti told the business owners he believed those issues to be part of the national mental health and substance use crisis. He said he would convene a task force to bring together social services agencies, while adding police foot patrols and outreach by social workers. Marchetti also said he would crack down on panhandling by banning people from standing in median strips and elsewhere in the city for more than 10 minutes. As mayor, Marchetti has proposed an ordinance that would regulate pedestrian usage of public ways and make it illegal for pedestrians to get within 5 feet of a car essentially criminalizing panhandling at certain intersections. Shortly after the city's Ordinance and Rules Committee moved to shelve that proposal, Marchetti unveiled a camping ordinance that would ban homeless people from sleeping or creating temporary shelter on any public land in the city. In a meeting with The Eagle editorial board Friday morning, Marchetti said the owners of Carr Hardware, Hotel on North, Paul Rich & Sons, and Steven Valenti Clothing for Men have threatened to close their businesses on North Street if he does not address the people sleeping in their doorways, panhandling on the sidewalk and shoplifting from their stores. "Doing nothing doesn't save our downtown," Marchetti said. "If you lose the four or five stores in our downtown, raise the white flag. Because our commercial tax base is really what is propelling us to exist." He acknowledged that homelessness is a complicated issue, and said he was open to other ideas. And he emphasized that the city is working with a local service provider in an effort to expand its hours in hopes that would help alleviate some of the problems downtown. The owners of Hotel on North and Paul Rich & Sons did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Raser and the Valentis said they are pleased to see the mayor taking action to address their concerns. As it stands now, they believe the visible homelessness on North Street is turning away customers, tourists and investors leaving Pittsfield lagging behind other towns in the county. "North Adams has Mass MoCA and all these great things. Williamstown has Williams College. Stockbridge has the Red Lion [Inn], Evan Valenti said. We just want to be a player, as my father said, in that particular group. They see Marchetti's proposed ordinance as one tool to draw financial investment into Pittsfield and catch up with other local economies. "I think there's a lot of things that need to be done, but I think this is a step in the right direction," Raser said. "I don't want to be interpreted as someone without compassion. I think we are all sensitive to the fact that these folks need support, and I don't think these things are mutually exclusive." Housing advocates and community leaders said business owners are using homeless people as a scapegoat for the host of economic problems behind the empty storefronts, lack of investment and limited foot traffic on North Street. The three most invested in cities in America have the three largest homeless populations, said Michael Hitchcock, referring to New York City, Los Angeles and Seattle. Hitchcock, who co-founded Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds, and Fernando Leon, an organizer for Berkshire Interfaith Organizing, said its also unfair to compare Pittsfield with towns like Great Barrington and Lenox, which are far smaller and have differently structured economies. What were seeing in Great Barrington is that people that belong to that community cannot afford rent there anymore. Were talking about people who are being displaced because of gentrification, Leon said. [Aspiring] to that is not sustainable. Housing advocates and some downtown business owners said it is possible for shop owners to address their concerns without relying on the camping ordinance, which housing advocates have said would criminalize homelessness and exacerbate existing cycles of housing instability and incarceration. In their eyes, it all comes down to relationship building. Noah Berge, who owns Pampered Pup Dog Day Spa, said he talks with the people who sometimes panhandle outside of his business on North Street and asks them not to disrupt customers during his busy hours. "I have a lot of sympathy for people in that situation. I wish the city, state and federal government would do more to solve it," Berge said. "I think criminalization of homelessness is a real problem." When those conversations happen, everyone benefits, said Kamaar Taliaferro, chair of the political action committee for the Berkshire branch of the NAACP. Homeless people feel safe, seen and respected. Business owners know who is sleeping on their doorsteps, and can work with people to determine how they can respect those spaces. "We need political leadership that says, 'All right, this might be an issue, but I think there's a community-based solution to this. I think there's a relationship-based solution to this,'" Taliaferro said. "And while we're trying this community relationship-based solution, we're going to recognize the systemic forces. Because that is really where the solution to homelessness is." Quality local journalism needs your support Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access. Subscribe today. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now for 99 Subscriber Sign In | Return Home In The Silver Chair by C. S. Lewis, Eustace and Jill find themselves in a world underneath Narnia and, because of the influence of a witch, begin to wonder if Narnia was merely a dream. The witchs lies worm their way into their minds, lulling them to forgetfulness. Was the sun truly real? They could not see it at present. And Aslan? Wasnt He merely a cat? Throughout the book, Lewis emphasized the need for Eustace and Jill to remember what Aslan had told them, to set their minds on the truth. Yet, repeatedly, the children discover that they have forgotten the words of the Great Lion. Believers often do the same. Like Eustace and Jill, we forget and start living as if heaven, and our future eternity on the New Earth, is a mere dream. We know what Scripture says about our citizenship, but our priorities often reveal a worldly focus. Many Christians have started to believe the old saying about a heavenly-minded person being of no earthly good. As it is, do we not have to deal with the mundane issues of ordinary life? Yet, those who leave a Christ-centered legacy through their lives are those who were most focused on eternity. As Lewis famously said, If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next. He argues that the lack of heavenly focus is what has contributed to the ineffectiveness of many modern Christians. If we care about how we live in the world (which we should), then we need to be more intentional about setting our mind on things above (Colossians 3:2). Doing so will not turn us into dreamers, but into doers whose hope and heart are tethered to our identity as citizens of heaven. The following six points provide a starting point for meditation as we quest to remember the true Narnia as Eustace and Jill eventually did with the help of Puddleglum, and to live as ambassadors of hope in a fallen world. Photo credit: Getty Images/peemadech bangsiri Siemens Healthineers and Apollo Hospitals join forces to advance innovation in liver healthcare July 23, 2025 | Wednesday | News Partnership combines technical and clinical expertise to develop innovative healthcare solutions image credit- shutterstock Siemens Healthineers and Apollo Hospitals have announced a research collaboration founded on a shared ambition to advance innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and imaging technologies, with the goal of improving lives. The research, spanning quantitative ultrasound imaging to AI-driven clinical solutions, aims to enhance liver disease management by improving patient care pathways and outcomes, from early detection and risk stratification to monitoring intervention and therapy response. The partnership combines technical and clinical expertise to develop innovative healthcare solutions for the growing burden of liver diseases in India, focusing on early diagnosis, accurate detection, and precise monitoring to improve patient outcomes. As per Government of India guidelines, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), referred to as NAFLD in the report, is a growing cause of liver disease in India. Prevalence ranges from 9% to 32%, higher among those who are overweight, obese, or have diabetes. NFHS-4 (2015-2016) reports 18-20% of adults are overweight/obese and 3-8% have abnormal blood sugar. MASLD significantly increases cardiovascular risk, with heart disease being the leading cause of death. Following the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding, the Master Research Agreement (MRA) was formalised in March 2025, establishing a foundation for collaborative research in diagnostic and interventional ultrasound imaging. The signing ceremony for the MRA Addendum was held on July 23, 2025, in Hyderabad, marking a significant milestone in this partnership. PHFI announces establishment of JSW Centre for Climate Change and Health July 23, 2025 | Wednesday | News To become a leading force in India's response to the health challenges posed by climate change JSW Foundation and the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) have come together to establish the JSW Centre for Climate Change and Health (JSW CCCH) at the PHFI Headquarters in Delhi NCR. The centre will play a pivotal role in supporting the Government of India's efforts to address the impact of climate change under the National Programme for Climate Change & Human Health. The JSW CCCH will address critical gaps in trained human resources, evidence generation, and technical capacity within India's rapidly evolving climate change landscape. Professor Sanjay Zodpey, President, Public Health Foundation of India said, The Centre will focus on key priority areas to address the health impacts of climate change outlined in the Mission on Health under the Prime Ministers Council on Climate Change. The Centre will build knowledge, capacity and expertise in strengthening health systems and health of communities. The broad scope and key focus areas of the JSW CCCH include: Jem's Birding & Ringing Exploits in the Eastern Province and elsewhere in Saudi Arabia 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. A jury has found former All-Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler, Niall Gilligan, not guilty of assaulting a then 12-year-old boy with a stick almost two years ago. At Ennis Circuit Court on Wednesday, the jury of seven men and five women delivered a majority 'not guilty' verdict against the charge that Mr Gilligan (48) of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge had assaulted causing harm of the boy with a stick at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5th, 2023. Advertisement Mr Gilligan sat impassively in the court as the court registrar read out the not guilty majority verdicts in the case concerning the assault causing harm charge and producing a stick under Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act at the same location on the same date. Two women in the Gilligan family group seated at the back of the court to support Mr Gilligan wept as the 'not guilty' verdicts were called out while the parents of the then 12 year old sitting on the opposite side of the court left the courtroom shortly after the verdicts were announced. The jury delivered their majority 'not guilty' verdict after five hours and three minutes of deliberations and returned to the court 48 minutes after Judge Francis Comerford directed shortly after mid-day on Wednesday that they could deliver a majority 11-1 or 10-2 verdict. Shortly before 1pm, the foreman replied yes when asked by the court registrar had at least 10 of the jury reached a verdict in the case. Advertisement The jury reached their verdicts after five days of evidence, closing speech by lawyers from both sides and the judge's charge in the case. Judge Comerford thanked the jury for the careful deliberations you have taken. Mr Gilligan spoke briefly with his legal team of solicitor, Daragh Hassett and Patrick Whyms BL in the body of the court before leaving the courtroom. A farmer and auctioneer in Sixmilebridge, Mr Gilligan was not on legal aid for the case and will have to pay his legal bill from the six-day long trial from his own resources. Advertisement In his closing speech to the jury, counsel for Mr Gilligan, Mr Whyms said on the evening at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Mr Gilligan didnt know that he was dealing with a child and did not create this situation. Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan "was at the end of his tether" by the vandalism being done to a vacant property he was trying to sell. Putting forward the defence of reasonable force against the charge of assault causing harm, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan was at the Jamaica Inn hostel on the night of October 5th in the dark and believed that he was under siege. He said: Believing himself under threat and needing to protect himself and his property, Niall Gilligan needs to make an instant decision and so we are here." Advertisement Mr Whyms said: And Mr Gilligan, a family man who has young children and no previous convictions gives a clear story which hast changed and an entirely credible, fulsome account of what happened." Mr Whyms said to the jury: Did Niall Gilligan use such force as was reasonable in the circumstances as he believed them to be and if he did then no offence was committed. In his prepared statement at Shannon Garda Station in February 2024 on the alleged assault, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan has given a perfectly plausible account in an otherwise impeccably accurate description of what occurred which placed the boys inside the building when he met them. On the medical evidence, Mr Whyms said: Nobody wants to see a child being injured and it would be much better if that didnt happen and the boy was injured in this case." Advertisement He said: There doesnt seem to be much room for argument that he was injured from the actions of Niall Gilligan. Mr Whyms said that a displaced fracture of a finger on the boys left hand is the only fracture in this case. He said: There is an un-displaced fracture of a finger - that is not a good thing to happen but that it is what happened He said: There were injuries and there were sustained in the incident but by and large, most were cleared up in the week and the last one was pretty well cleared up in two weeks." Mr Whyms said that the injuries dont look nice on the photographs - there is no getting away from that and injuries that are photographed immediately after don't look nice. Mr Whyms said that the injuries sustained by the boy are clearly regrettable. A Central Criminal Court judge has criticised the delay in preparing a psychiatric assessment on a Somalian national accused of the murder of his former partner Mary Ward in Belfast last year. "I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice Paul McDermott, asking both the prosecution and defence teams to establish a timeframe in the case of Ahmed Abdirahman (31). Advertisement Mr Abdirahman, originally from Somalia and with a last address at Kinlay house, 4 Lord Edward Street, Dublin, is accused of murdering the young mother on September 25th, 2024, at her house on Melrose Street in south Belfast. At the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday, counsel for the State, Antonia Boyle BL said that the book of evidence had not yet been served on the accused due to mental health concerns. The court heard from the defence team that the accused is waiting to be admitted to the Central Mental Hospital, and he has failed to engage with a psychiatrist who attempted to see him. Ireland Motorcyclist to face trial over pedestrian's death... Read More Defence counsel also told the court that there is a jurisdictional issue in the case, as the alleged offence occurred in Northern Ireland, meaning the accused must be given the option to be tried there. Advertisement Mr Justice McDermott noted that there was still no diagnosis of the accused, so there was no understanding if he was fit to plead or not. He said that he wanted both the defence and the prosecution to contact the Central Mental Hospital to establish a timeframe as to when the issues will be resolved. "There has to be some response. I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice McDermott. The matter was put back to July 30th. A 43-year-old man has been charged with attacking a Swiss tourist on a busy bus in south Dublin after he stood in the section reserved for buggies and wheelchairs. Richard O'Mahoney, of Rathgar Avenue, Dublin 6, is accused of assault causing harm on January 4th, 2023. Advertisement He appeared at Dublin District Court, where Judge Treasa Kelly accepted jurisdiction after hearing an outline of the case facts. She remanded the accused on bail to appear again in September to enter a plea. The court heard the incident occurred on a Dublin Bus on Rathgar Road, Rathgar, Dublin 6, at around 6:30 pm. A Swiss national and his wife had been visiting their daughter in Dublin for Christmas. After spending the day in the city centre with his wife, daughter and her boyfriend, they boarded a bus to Churchtown. Advertisement The bus was busy, all seats were taken, and the complainant stood in the area for buggies or wheelchairs. Along the journey, a man, allegedly the accused, boarded with a woman, and he was pushing a buggy with a small baby. It was claimed that he pushed the buggy into the tourist's legs three or four times while speaking to the Swiss national, who did not understand because he did not speak English. It was alleged that later Mr O'Mahoney and the woman with him, who was now pushing the buggy, went to get off the bus. However, the accused allegedly turned around, approached the man and began punching him until other passengers intervened. The incident was allegedly captured on CCTV. The Swiss man suffered a swollen eye, tinnitus in his left ear, and a fractured nose, the court heard. Ryanair chief executive Michael OLeary has been criticised for his insulting comments on a metro for Dublin, which he called a waste of taxpayer money. The 18.8km rail line, most of which will be underground, is to run from north of Swords to Charlemont in the south of Dublin city centre. Advertisement Various metro projects for the capital have been proposed in recent decades, but none have proceeded to the building stage. On Tuesday, the Government announced that the MetroLink project would get a 2 billion boost in funding as part of the national development plan, in what Taoiseach Micheal Martin said was a very definitive commitment to the metro. While Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe indicated the latest estimated cost for the MetroLink was 11 billion, Mr OLeary claimed it would cost 20 billion, so about a billion a kilometre. Dublin Airport doesnt need it, Dublin Airport passengers wont use it theyre already well-served by buses, he told RTE Radio on Wednesday, while claiming that less than a third of the airports passengers use buses. Advertisement He said that while the tube in London runs from Heathrow and through all of London, the Metro will only serve a section of Dublin citys residents around 100,000 people, he claimed. Heres the madness of this. This thing is going to start at Stephens Green in the morning. If you want to get to our first wave of departures, which leave at about 6.30 in the morning, you need to be at the airport at 5.30am. Are you seriously going to drive into the centre of Stephens Green, where theres no car parking, to get this metro to get to Dublin Airport for 5.30 in the morning? No, youre not. Let me give you the alternative scenario: for 100 million, this year we could buy 400 buses, and 400 buses would provide exactly the same capacity as this metro from Dublin Airport, in through Ballymun, in through Drumcondra, on bus lanes that already exist. Advertisement He claimed the plan had not been properly costed and hit out at the Governments handling of public finances. This Government wasted 330,000 on a bike shed, imagine what they do with an 18-kilometre underground train from an airport? Micheal Martin announced two billion euro funding for the metro project (Phil Noble/PA) He also criticised comments by Mr Martin, who said the Irish capital will not be sustainable without a metro. Does he not understand that the buses actually will all be electrified by the end of this decade, which will actually be greener than light rail? Advertisement Labour TD Duncan Smith said Mr OLearys criticisms of public infrastructure were as sure as night follows day. Dubliners are stuck in daily gridlock. MetroLink is their best chance at affordable, reliable transport that serves communities, not corporate profits. As a consistent advocate for MetroLink in Swords, I find it insulting to hear this kind of drive-by commentary from someone who clearly doesnt rely on public transport to get to work. Dublin deserves better than a transport plan from a billionaire whose only experience with buses is when he is pretending to be one. Advertisement When asked about his endorsement of Enterprise Minister Peter Burke and junior minister Robert Troy during the general election campaign, Mr OLeary claimed theyre not in government and criticised Mr Martin again. I endorsed Peter Burke, who actually topped the poll despite the criticism. I also endorsed Robert Troy and theyre not the government. A motorcyclist is to go on trial next year in relation to a fatal collision with a pedestrian in Dublin city centre three years ago after the victims family successfully appealed a decision of the DPP that there should be no criminal prosecution arising from her death. Marie Farragher Pollard (62), from Bruckey, Castlegar, Co Galway, sustained fatal injuries in the incident which occurred at around 10.40am at the junction of Eden Quay and Beresford Place, Dublin 1, on November 9th, 2022. Advertisement The retired nurse and married mother of three, who came originally from The Neale, Co Mayo, died two days later at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital in Dublin where she had been rushed by ambulance for treatment for her injuries. The driver of the motorcycle was uninjured and did not require medical treatment. A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court on Wednesday heard an application by gardai for an adjournment of the inquest into Ms Farragher Pollards death under Section 25 (2) of the Coroners Act as criminal proceedings had been commenced in the case. Detective Inspector Ken Hoare told the coroner, Clare Keane, that the case was listed for trial in July 2026. Advertisement Dr Keane granted the application and adjourned the inquest until a date to be determined on completion of related criminal proceedings. The coroner had previously been informed at a hearing of the inquest last January that Ms Farragher Pollards family had appealed the decision of the DPP in relation to the Garda file on the fatal incident. The original direction that there should be no prosecution arising from the pedestrians death has now been reversed. Ms Farragher Pollard, who had worked as a theatre nurse at University Hospital Galway until her retirement in 2020, was struck by the motorcycle while she was visiting Dublin to attend an exhibition. Advertisement At the opening of her inquest in June 2023, her husband, Tom Pollard, gave evidence of formally identifying his wifes body. The results of a postmortem showed Ms Farragher Pollard had died as a result of a traumatic head injury. Tributes paid to the nurse following her death described her as a bright light who was known for her charity work with Concern in Thailand and Bangladesh in the 1980s. Dominic McSorley, the then chief executive of Concern, said Ms Farragher Pollard was a compassionate, caring and professional charity worker who was loved by all, including the refugees and communities she worked with. Marie fitted in easily and effortlessly everywhere she worked, said Mr McSorley. A woman who pushed an older man out in front of oncoming traffic as she was trying to rob a bags of tools from him has been jailed for 13 months. Edel Stirling (45), of Camden Street Lower, Dublin 2, came forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on signed pleas of guilty from the District Court. She pleaded guilty to theft, robbery and criminal damage by urinating in a cell at Mountjoy Garda Station on December 13, 2024. Advertisement The court heard that the 82-year-old man was locking up a premises where he had been working in Dublin city centre when he heard someone rummaging through a plastic bag of tools he had left at the front of the property. He came out to investigate and spotted Stirling running off with the bag. She was accompanied by what the victim described as an intoxicated man. The victim followed and managed to get the tools back off Stirling but she swung out at him and tried to pull the bag back claiming that it belonged to her. A witness to the robbery described Stirling as punching the victim in the face and knocking him to the ground before she continued to punch him in the face. He said the robber also pulled the victim out in front of a taxi, causing the driver to slam on his brakes to avoid impact. Advertisement Stirling spat at the passerby who had come to the mans assistance and another person took a photograph of her. The victim was left with injuries to his nose, face and head. The gardai were alerted. They were given a description of Stirling and they were informed what direction she had run in. She was arrested a short time later and taken in for questioning but was deemed too intoxicated for interview by a doctor called to the station. Diarmuid Collins BL, prosecuting, said Stirling urinated in the station during the course of her time there. Counsel said she made no admissions during garda interview, when she was later deemed fit, but expressed concern for the welfare of the victim when she was shown photographs of his injuries. Advertisement Mr Collins said the man had not completed a victim impact statement. Stirling has 40 previous convictions including assault, assault causing harm and 25 bench warrants. Niall Nolan BL, defending, acknowledged that this was a horrific incident for this poor gentleman and accepted he had suffered injuries as a result of the attack. He said his client was a mother of two, who has a history of intoxication, addiction and homelessness but said she has detoxed since her remand in prison and is now stable. Mr Nolan said his client has engaged with various programmes in prison and the staff on those programmes describe her as open and respectful. Advertisement Counsel submitted that his client had been drinking heavily that day and struggled to recall the incident. He said she was remorseful for the injuries she caused the victim. Judge Dara Hayes noted that the victim had initially got his bag back from Stirling but she continued to be abusive and insisted the bag was hers before she continued the assault. He accepted that she had expressed considerable concern and remorse and was intoxicated that day. The judge further accepted that she engaged well with various programmes in prison. Ireland Former hurler Niall Gilligan found not guilty of a... Read More These are serious offences. Significant violence was used against a man, Judge Hayes said before he took into account the age of the victim and the injuries he sustained from the attack. He acknowledged Stirlings co-operation, expression of remorse and her efforts to rehabilitate. Judge Hayes set a headline sentence of three years and half years for the robbery offence, with the other offences taken into account. He reduced this sentence to two years and four months before he suspended the final 15 months on strict conditions. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has pledged to fund new arts and cultural programmes that will see more island-wide productions, tours and exhibitions on both sides of the border. Mr Martin said programmes will be launched later in the year to help communities celebrate the diversity across the island. Advertisement In the annual Seamus Share Home Place lecture at Navan Fort in Armagh on Tuesday, Mr Martin spoke of conversations he had with the former deputy first minister of Northern Ireland and a founder of the SDLP. Mr Martin said Mr Mallons wise words inspired him when he announced the Shared Island Initiative some five years ago. Orla Mallon, daughter of Seamus Mallon said; It is an honour that Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD, a good friend of my late father, will deliver the annual Seamus Mallon Lecture. pic.twitter.com/x4QtNTlA7J The John and Pat Hume Foundation (@humefoundation) July 22, 2025 Then, as now, I drew on Seamuss wise words to encapsulate why we need to do more to accommodate and understand each other across the different and often interwoven communities of this island, Mr Martin said in his speech. The Fianna Fail leader listed projects and initiatives to connect both sides of the border, including an hourly train service from Dublin to Belfast, which he said brought a 50 per cent increase in passenger numbers. Advertisement He also cited the Narrow Water Bridge project, a Shared Destinations tourism programme, the Ulster Canal restoration and island-wide enterprise and biodiversity programmes as ways of connecting different communities. Because, as Seamus perfectly described it, this is and will always be our shared home place, Mr Martin added. Our focus on fostering people-to-people interaction is also now moving to a higher level. To meet the scale of the demand and the potential there is now, to foster connections in every domain, and to involve and benefit every town and community on this island. Advertisement We are continuing and expanding the Shared Island Civic Society Fund and island-wide Creative Ireland programming. We are this year initiating major new arts and cultural heritage programmes, backed with more than 20 million from the Government of Ireland out to 2030. This will see more island-wide productions, tours and exhibitions across all arts spheres and a new Ireland-UK cultural partnership for institutions and audiences to engage more with the culture and heritage of both our countries. Earlier on Tuesday, Mr Martin visited the Middletown Centre, which works with children and young people with autism and is funded by the Irish Government and Stormont. Advertisement The centre is doing excellent work, not only through providing services and supports, but also in terms of contributing to the broader body of knowledge on autism, through their essential research, he added. Ireland Micheal Martin rejects idea that Shared Island fun... Read More It is also a shining example of practical North-South co-operation in action. It was established by the two departments of education, north and south, in 2007, and is funded by both departments. It demonstrates the strength of collaboration on this island, and what can be achieved by working together. More than 100 charity and human rights groups have said that Israels blockade and ongoing military offensive are pushing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip towards starvation. The organisations raised their concerns as Israeli strikes killed another 21 people overnight, according to local health officials. Advertisement Meanwhile, the US administrations Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, was set to meet with a senior Israeli official about ceasefire talks, a sign that lower-level negotiations that have dragged on for weeks could be approaching a breakthrough. Experts say Gaza is at risk of famine because of Israels blockade and offensive, launched in response to Hamass attack on October 7 2023. Israel says it allows enough aid into the territory and faults delivery efforts by UN agencies, which say they are hindered by Israeli restrictions and the breakdown of security. People in #Gaza, including UNRWA staff, are fainting due to starvation and severe hunger. People including children are dying from severe malnutrition. People are being starved. UNRWA alone has thousands of trucks in neighbouring countries waiting to enter Gaza banned by pic.twitter.com/02h3MMD4pd UNRWA (@UNRWA) July 23, 2025 Hamas has said it will only release the remaining 50 hostages it holds, around 20 of them believed to be alive, in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal, while Israel has vowed to recover all the captives and continue the war until Hamas has been defeated or disarmed. In an open letter, 115 organisations, including major international aid groups such as Doctors Without Borders, Mercy Corps and Save the Children, said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. Advertisement It blamed Israeli restrictions and massacres at aid distribution points. Witnesses, health officials and the UN human rights office say Israeli forces have repeatedly fired on crowds seeking aid, killing more than 1,000 people. Israel says its forces have only fired warning shots and that the death toll is exaggerated. The government of Israels restrictions, delays and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation and death, the letter said. Israels Foreign Ministry rejected the criticism and accused the groups of echoing Hamass propaganda. It said it has allowed around 4,500 aid trucks to enter Gaza since lifting a complete blockade in May, and that more than 700 are waiting to be picked up and distributed by the United Nations. Israeli activists take part in a protest against the war in the Gaza Strip (AP) That is an average of around 70 trucks a day, the lowest rate of the war and far below the 500-600 trucks a day the UN says are needed, and which entered during a six-week ceasefire earlier this year. Advertisement The UN says it has struggled to deliver aid inside Gaza because of Israeli military restrictions, ongoing fighting, and a breakdown of law and order. An alternative system established by Israel and an American contractor has been marred by violence and controversy. An official familiar with ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas said Ron Dermer, a top adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was travelling to Rome to meet Mr Witkoff on Thursday to discuss the state of the talks. US officials said Mr Witkoff planned to head to Europe this week. The State Department spokesperson said he was headed to the Middle East in a sign that momentum may be building towards a deal. The evolving deal, which is still being hammered out, is expected to include a 60-day ceasefire in which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others in phases in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Aid supplies would be ramped up and the two sides would hold negotiations on a lasting truce. Advertisement "Silencing voices. As if banning international media is not enough. Humanitarian workers are also banned when they report on atrocities committed in #Gaza and elsewhere in the occupied Palestinian territory. The denial of a visa to our colleague from @OCHAopt is the latest in pic.twitter.com/ewMk0PUY7o UNRWA (@UNRWA) July 22, 2025 Israel has continued to carry out waves of daily air strikes against what it says are militant targets but which often kill women and children. Israel blames civilian deaths on Hamas because the militants operate in densely populated areas. Strikes overnight and into Wednesday killed at least 21 people, more than half of them women and children, according to local health officials. One of the strikes hit a house in Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The dead included six children and two women, according to Gazas Health Ministry. The Israeli military said it struck an Islamic Jihad militant, and that the incident was under review because of reports of civilian casualties. Advertisement Another strike hit an apartment in northern Gaza, killing at least six people. Among the dead were three children and two women, including one who was pregnant. Eight others were wounded, the ministry said. Palestinians are relying on aid in an increasingly dire humanitarian situation (AP) A third strike hit a tent in Gaza City late Tuesday and killed three children, Shifa Hospital said. In central Gaza, a strike in a densely populated part of the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp killed eight people and wounded 57, according to Awda Hospital, which received the casualties. Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in the October 7 attack, and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed during the war, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its count does not distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. The UN and other international organisations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy is under pressure at home and abroad for stripping the independence of anti-corruption agencies whose work is seen as essential to Kyiv's path to join the European Union. Amendments giving his appointed prosecutor more power over the two investigative bodies have drawn criticism from top EU officials and sparked the country's largest wartime protests. Advertisement Here is what it means. What are Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies? The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) were set up after a 2014 revolution toppled a pro-Russian president and set Kyiv on a Western course. They are responsible for independently weeding out high-level graft, a central requirement for Ukraine to receive billions of dollars in Western aid and join the 27-member EU. The agencies have stepped up their work during Russia's full-scale invasion, producing charges against lawmakers, senior government officials and a former deputy head of Zelenskiy's administration. Advertisement Last month, they accused a deputy prime minister of accepting a 300,000 kickback. Why have their powers been curbed? In a late-night address on Tuesday, Zelenskiy said the agencies needed to be "cleansed" of Russian influence and their work strengthened and sped up. A day earlier, Kyiv's domestic security agency had arrested two NABU officials on suspicion of ties to Russia and conducted sweeping searches into agency employees, a move critics described as excessive. The new measures, which were fast-tracked in large part by Zelenskiy's ruling party, allow the general prosecutor to transfer cases away from the agencies and re-assign prosecutors, several lawmakers said. Advertisement Critics, including an anti-corruption campaigner charged this month with fraud and evading military service, have alleged the crackdown was a politically motivated response to their work. What was the reaction? After the vote, the EU's enlargement commissioner said she was "seriously concerned" about the measures, and on Wednesday Germany's foreign minister warned Kyiv against hampering its path to the EU. At home, thousands of Ukrainians rallied in Kyiv just steps away from the site of the 2014 uprising, which itself was sparked by a democratic rollback and threats to Ukraine's European integration. Protesters in Kyiv hold placards during a demonstration about the independence of Ukraine's two anti-corruption agencies. Photo: AFP via Getty Fighting corruption and embracing the West, especially since Moscow's 2022 invasion, are seen as critical to erasing a legacy of Russian rule. Advertisement Ukrainians are furious at signs of corruption and misrule at a time when tens of thousands of troops have been killed on the front fending off Russia. "My brother didn't die for this kind of future," read a placard at the Kyiv protest. What's next? On Wednesday, Zelenskiy said he had met with anti-corruption and security officials to hash out a joint plan within two weeks to better combat corruption. Writing on X, he said the officials would aim to "resolve existing contradictions, and eliminate threats". "We all hear what society is saying," he said. "We see what people expect from state institutions." Still, NABU and SAPO said in a joint statement on Wednesday that they wanted their independence restored through legislation. Meanwhile, lawmakers pledged to challenge the amendments while Ukrainians on social media called for continuing public protests. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has vowed to remain in power to oversee the implementation of a new Japan-US tariff agreement, despite media speculation and growing calls for him to resign after the historic defeat of his governing party. Mr Ishiba met heavyweights from his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and former prime ministers Taro Aso, Fumio Kishida and Yoshihide Suga at party headquarters. Advertisement He told reporters afterwards that they did not discuss his resignation or a new party leadership contest, but only the election results, voters dissatisfaction and the urgent need to avoid party discord. Despite his business-as-usual demeanour, Mr Ishiba is under increasing pressure to bow out after the LDP and junior coalition partner Komeito lost their majority in Sundays election in the 248-member upper house, the smaller and less powerful of Japans two-chamber parliament, shaking his grip on power. It came after a loss in the more powerful lower house in October, and so his coalition now lacks a majority in both houses of parliament, making it even more difficult for his government to pass policies and worsening Japans political instability. Mr Ishiba spoke to the media after President Donald Trump announced a trade framework with Japan (Kyodo News via AP) Mr Ishiba says he intends to stay on to tackle pressing challenges, including tariff talks with the US, so as not to create a political vacuum despite calls from inside and outside his party for a quick resignation. Advertisement Mr Ishiba keeps saying he is staying on. What was the publics verdict in the election all about?, said Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the surging Democratic Party for the People (DPP). At the LDP, a group of younger politicians led by Yasutaka Nakasone started a petition drive seeking Mr Ishibas early resignation and renewal of party leadership. We all have a sense of crisis and think the election results were an ultimatum from the voters, he said. Japanese media reported that Mr Ishiba is expected to soon announce plans to step down in August. Advertisement The conservative Yomiuri newspaper said in an extra edition on Wednesday that Mr Ishiba had decided to announce his resignation by the end of July after receiving a detailed report from his chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, on the impact of the US tariffs on the Japanese economy, paving the way for a new party leader. Mr Ishiba denied the report and said that he wants to focus on the US trade deal, which covers more than 4,000 goods affecting many Japanese producers and industries. He welcomed the new agreement, which places tariffs at 15% on Japanese cars and other goods imported into the US from Japan, down from the initial 25%. Still, local media are already speculating about possible successors. Among them are ultraconservative former economic security minister Sanae Takaichi, who lost to Mr Ishiba in September. Another conservative ex-minister, Takayuki Kobayashi, and agriculture minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former popular prime minister Junichiro Koizumi, are also seen as potential challengers. Advertisement In Sundays election, voters frustrated with price increases exceeding the pace of wage hikes, especially younger people who have long felt ignored by the ruling governments focus on senior voters, rapidly turned to the emerging conservative DPP and right-wing populist Sanseito party. None of the opposition parties have shown an interest in forming a full-fledged alliance with the governing coalition, but they have said they are open to co-operating on policy. A US judge has rejected a Trump administration request to unseal transcripts from grand jury investigations of Jeffrey Epstein years ago in Florida. A similar records request is pending in New York. Advertisement District judge Robin Rosenberg in West Palm Beach, Florida said the request to release grand jury documents from 2005 and 2007 did not meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under US law that could make them public. The Justice Department last week asked the judge to release records to quell a storm among supporters of US President Donald Trump who believe there was a conspiracy to protect Epsteins clients, conceal videos of crimes being committed and other evidence. In 2008, Epstein cut a deal with prosecutors in Florida that allowed him to escape more severe federal charges and instead plead guilty to state charges of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and solicitation of prostitution. The wealthy financier was later arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. Advertisement His former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, was charged with helping him abuse teenage girls. Epstein was found dead in his cell at a jail in New York City about a month after he was arrested. Investigators concluded he killed himself. Maxwell later was convicted at trial and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Advertisement The case attracted attention because of Epstein and Maxwells links to famous people, including royals, presidents and billionaires. It also led to some of the biggest conspiracy theories animating Mr Trumps base. Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students in the US who were murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as his sentencing hearing took place. This world was a better place with her in it, Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Advertisement The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University at the time. You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, Steve Goncalves said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for four counts of first-degree murder in the brutal stabbing deaths of Ms Mogen, Ms Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin early on November 13 2022. He was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary. The defendant pleaded guilty earlier this month, just weeks before his trial was due to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Advertisement Kohberger broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, and Kohberger chose not to speak at the hearing. Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, took the light they carried into each room. He is a hollow vessel, something less than human, Mr Mortenson said. A body without empathy, without remorse. Mr Mortenson and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks and anxiety after the attack. Advertisement I slept in my parents room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Ms Funke wrote in a statement read by a friend. I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or Im about to lose someone else that I love. Bryan Kohberger stabbed four University of Idaho students to death (Kyle Green, Pool/AP) Alivea Goncalvess voice did not waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the killings, including what her sisters last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are, Alivea Goncalves said. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Advertisement Kohbergers mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defence table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogens grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. Police initially had no suspects in the killings, which terrified the rural western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. Advertisement A knife sheath left near ms Mogens body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, investigators said, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect and accessed mobile phone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings. Syrias interim government has requested Turkeys support to strengthen its defence capabilities, Turkish officials said. It follows sectarian violence over the past two weeks that have increased tensions in Syria and drawn intervention by Israel. Advertisement The defence ministry officials said that Syria has also sought assistance to combat terrorist organisations, including the so-called Islamic State group. Turkey which has long expressed readiness to assist Syria was working towards providing training, advisory services and technical support to help strengthen Syrias defence capacity, the officials added. A convoy of ambulances and buses arrives at a checkpoint in a village in southern Syria on its way to Sweida (Omar Sanadiki/AP) Tensions escalated in southern Syria last week, with violent clashes erupting between Bedouin Arab tribes and Druze militias in the province of Sweida. The conflict triggered Israeli air strikes on convoys of government forces in Sweida and on the Ministry of Defence headquarters in central Damascus, which Israel justified as efforts to protect Druze communities. Advertisement Turkey, which strongly supports Syrias interim government led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, has been seeking a defence agreement with Syria that could reportedly include establishing Turkish military bases on Syrian territory. Ankara also backs an agreement reached between the interim Syrian administration and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate into Syrias national army. Implementation of the deal has stalled, with a major sticking point being whether the SDF would remain as a cohesive unit in the new army or be dissolved completely. Bedouin fighters gather in a village in southern Syria (Omar Sanadiki/AP) On Tuesday, Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan warned Kurdish and other groups in Syria against exploiting the tensions to pursue autonomy, stating that any attempt to divide Syria would be viewed as a direct threat to Turkeys national security and could prompt intervention. Advertisement Turkey considers the SDF a terrorist organisation because of its association with the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which has waged a long-running insurgency in Turkey. The defence ministry officials said Turkey expects the SDF to follow through on its commitments under the agreement, adding that Turkey would be following the situation. The situation in Syria has increased tensions between Turkey and Israel. In April, Israel struck five cities in Syria, including more than a dozen strikes near a strategic air base in the city of Hama, where Turkey reportedly has interests in having a military presence. Israel accused Turkey of trying to build a protectorate in Syria. In Poland, one of the countrys biggest media businesses is embroiled in a rapidly escalating family dispute thats playing out like a real-life version of the hit television show Succession. The saga at Cyfrowy Polsat SA, which has been running for months, ramped up on Tuesday when the company dismissed its billionaire founder Zygmunt Solorz as well as its chief executive. Zigmunt Solorz, founder of Cyrfowy Polsat, with his wife, Justyna Kulka. Credit: Piotr Matusewicz / East News The feud has pitted 68-year-old Solorz against his children, with control of the business at the heart of the matter. There have been lawsuits and attempts by Solorz to remove his sons from the company, while the children have clashed with Solorzs new wife, an employee whom he married in 2024. There have also been concerns about Solorzs health and his capacity to make business decisions. When the Prince of Darkness took to the stage, anything could happen. Ozzy Osbourne has died at the age of 76, just weeks after his farewell show. Though he will, of course, be remembered for his Hall of Fame-worthy heavy metal talent, the former Black Sabbath frontman will also go down in history for a particular moment he shared with a dead bat in Iowa. You never really knew what Ozzy Osbourne was going to do on-stage. Credit: Alamy Stock Photo During Osbournes Diary of a Madman tour in January 1982, the demon-invoking musician bit the head off what he thought was a fake, rubber bat that had been thrown on stage at Des Moines Veterans Memorial Auditorium (now the Iowa Events Centre). However, as soon as he noticed the blood seeping out of the fanged mammal, he realised it was a dead, but very real, bat. Speaking in the 2020 documentary The Nine Lives of Ozzy Osbourne, he recalled thinking it was fake when it was thrown towards him. 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 Great Australian Bake Off has a very particular mood and aesthetic. Like the iconic British series its based on, this cooking competition is all scones and jam, bright colours and big feelings. Its wholesome family viewing, punctuated by giggles and gags. Which is why many local comedy fans might have been a bit perplexed by the casting of Tom Walker this season. Not because he isnt talented. But because this unhinged comedian, trained mime and Twitch streamer is, to my knowledge, the first co-host whose stand-up includes graphic sex scenes with a coat. After the audition I got a text that I read to my parents, and it made them laugh the hardest that theyve ever laughed, which is kind of hurtful, as a comedian, Walker says before the series launch. The text said that everyone was pleasantly surprised. He adds: There comes a time when a production has to throw up its hands and say, Lets try a freak on here! Darren Purchese (left), Rachel Khoo, Tom Walker and Natalie Tran in The Great Australian Bake Off. Credit: Foxtel But, however unlikely off-screen, Walker isnt at all out of place in the Bake Off shed. In this upcoming eighth season, he perfectly matches the goofy and warm energy of returning co-host Natalie Tran who also made her name in online comedy and has a fresh haircut and rotation of bright cardigans to blend in. Advertisement My mullet was the first casualty of getting to be in the Bake-Off shed and I understand why they did it, Walker says, laughing. Something to keep in mind is I am approximately triple the size of everyone else. I would have been quite an intimidating presence if they had not sanded down some of the rough edges. Im a loomer: I naturally gravitate towards standing out of focus in the background of shot. If youve seen the movie It Follows [a horror film in which people are slowly stalked by others who are possessed by a supernatural entity], thats where my presence most naturally gravitates. Tran admits that, unfamiliar with his stand-up, she watched Walkers 2020 special Very Very (yes, the one with the coat) the night before meeting him and had some questions. It was fantastic! But I was like, Wow, theyre going to let him [on the show]? OK, I love it. Of course, his usual material needed tweaking. Walker confirms there was a ban on him referencing poo or other bodily products, which is kind of like telling Tyson he cant uppercut. But Tran says what stood out to her was how polite and nurturing he was after production started. I know thats probably not the first thing that you think of, but he brought such a caring energy to the shed, she says. He was exactly what we needed. Walker is, after all, filling the spot held by Cal Wilson, who died after a short battle with a rare cancer in October 2023. The beloved comedian left the show abruptly in season seven, leaving Tran to host on her own, and died shortly after filming finished. This new season is the first time Tran and the rest of the crew were on set since Wilsons death. Advertisement It was tough, Tran says. The thing that I had to focus on was that Cal really loved the show, and its a real privilege to be able to work on it. There were obviously sad moments, but it was a chance to feel closer to her, too. We now have a tree for Cal in the park [where we film]. Cal Wilson and Natalie Tran on set during the 2023 season of The Great Australian Bake Off. It also helped, Tran says, that Walker was longtime friends with Wilson and shared the loss. The pair had starred alongside each other in the short-lived Australian version of improv show Whose Line Is It Anyway? in 2016. Loading She was the most warm and kind person that Ive ever met in comedy, he says, slowly and with emphasis. Comedy is an industry populated by the meanest, funniest people that you could possibly meet, and no one had a bad word to say about Cal. Everybody loved her. Was there any pressure in being asked to step into her shoes? I just want to make her proud. She loved this show she truly loved it. And I want to take this thing that she loved and shepherded, and keep it safe in some small way. Advertisement Thanks for joining us for our live coverage of news in Brisbane and beyond. Well be back tomorrow morning with more live coverage. In the meantime, catch up on the stories making headlines today: New allegations of cross-border underworld criminal links to the CFMEU will be probed under an expansion of the Queensland inquiry into the union. Brisbanes median house price has surged by $22,000 in just three months, reaching a record high as interest rates fall. Former boxing world champion Anthony Mundine has unveiled plans to stage Australias first big-time bare knuckle event in Brisbane, declaring the sport safer than its brutal appearance. The Trump administration is congratulating itself on securing a major trade breakthrough after the Australian government lifted its longstanding de facto ban on beef from the United States. The Australian Taxation Office has been accused of writing off more than $950,000 in penalties and interest owed by one of Paul Keatings investment companies following negotiations with the former prime minister and his advisers. And in a congested field of rising stars in the Brisbane Lions ranks, Jaspa Fletcher seemed to fly under the radar. Yet Dayne Zorko rates him the best player to walk through Brighton Homes Arena each week. Read our profile of this rising star. Were bringing our blog to a close for the day, thank you for joining us. As we leave you tonight, police are continuing to hunt for a man they believe could have information about a shooting in Clarkson last night. A house was shot at just after 10pm, and police say theyre hunting for Jason James Cockie over the incident. Anyone who sees Mr Cockie is urged to avoid him as he may be armed, and call police as soon as possible. Meanwhile, three Commissioners have been appointed to lead the City of Nedlands following a prolonged period of dysfunction and a local council has voted to rip up six tiny trees along the South Perth foreshore after residents said they would block their million-dollar views. Heres what also made headlines today: The Australian Federal Police claim to have uncovered a multi-million dollar money laundering scheme after a woman was stopped at Perth Airport trying to leave the state with $190,000 cash in her luggage. Former Australian womens indoor hockey coach Lauren Austin has pleaded guilty in a Perth court to the indecent assault of a child under her care, while two other more serious charges she was facing have been discontinued. The state government has announced new contracts totalling $342 million to unlock renewable energy in WA. Big Bell Gold Operations has been fined $945,000 after a truck fatally struck a worker at an underground gold mine near Cue. Thank you again for tuning in today. Well see you back here tomorrow for more news you need to know. Washington: Theres something about the presence of a foreign leader in the Oval Office that spurs Donald Trump into territory that is, even for him, extreme. On Tuesday (Wednesday AEST), it was the Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr who bore witness to a stunning display of temerity as the US president accused one of his predecessors, Barack Obama, of trying to engineer a coup and committing treason. Donald Trump meets Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in the Oval Office of the White House on Tuesday. Credit: AP The allegation, spurious as it is, arises from a document compiled by Trumps director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, alleging a treasonous conspiracy by senior Obama administration officials in 2016 to wrongly assert that Russia interfered in the presidential election of that year, which Trump won. In short, the dossier suggests intelligence officials changed their findings under political pressure from Obama and others, and embraced the narrative that Vladimir Putins regime tried to swing the vote for Trump. "And despite the rate of change in technology. Do you know what's the same and hasn't changed?" she continued. "The fact that we are all inherently human. We're people, and as a result of that, we have, as people, a deep need for connection and for belonging. It's part of our DNA. This influences our behavior; it influences our decision making. And that is not going to go away. Because we're all still going to be people. And as a result of being people, we deeply value human interaction, in particular human interaction when it comes to making those really, really big decisions. And when big decisions are made, they're made in professional environments and professional services industries, just like broking. Because people need that personal interaction. They need trust in a process. And that's in a way that computers, technology, can never do. People want a really hyper personalized experience now, and they're going to want it even more into the future, where there is greater technology and almost a homogenization of service." Advanced weapon systems make debut 09:50, July 23, 2025 By ZHAO LEI in Baotou, Inner Mongolia ( Chinadaily.com.cn The BZK-005E, a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft, is undergoing flight tests over mountains. PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY China North Industries Group Corp, the country's biggest maker of land armaments, is promoting a package of advanced weapon systems that enable customers to deploy unmanned aerial vehicles in combat or defend against hostile UAVs. At a live-fire show on Monday in Baotou, an industrial powerhouse in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, the State-owned defense conglomerate, commonly known as Norinco, displayed several new or upgraded types of military drones and counter-UAV weapons. The major drone system highlighted at the daylong show was the BZK-005E, a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft. The new drone, which is based on the BZK-005 model, is able to operate in different weather conditions and complex environments, and can undertake various tasks, mainly involving surveillance and reconnaissance over target zones. It measures about 10 meters long, with a wingspan of 18 meters, and has a maximum takeoff weight of 1.5 metric tons. The drone can fly up to 180 kilometers per hour and is capable of carrying 370 kilograms of mission payloads, such as electro-optical pods, synthetic aperture radar, communication devices and electronic countermeasure equipment. The robotic plane can be assigned to multiple branches of the military to conduct a variety of campaign-level tasks, such as intelligence gathering and battlefield monitoring. The CR500B, another pilotless aircraft, is a multipurpose helicopter capable of carrying various mission payloads such as ammunition and electro-optical equipment. It is used to perform tactical tasks including battlefield reconnaissance, target positioning, laser designation guidance, precision strikes and damage assessment. The aircraft features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, short combat preparation time, and strong adaptability to battlefield environments, and it can operate in plateau areas. Having seen the heavy use of loitering munition weapons UAVs that can maintain a holding pattern in the air while scanning for targets in recent conflicts around the world, Norinco has developed a number of such systems to meet demand in the international arms market. During Monday's event, the defense contractor featured the FL-30 loitering munition system, which is designed for beyond-visual-range, real-time reconnaissance and precision strike missions. It can be launched from various platforms such as ground combat vehicles and naval vessels. It primarily executes combat operations including distributed network reconnaissance, persistent loitering deterrence, targeted elimination and large-scale swarm attacks. In terms of counter-UAV capability, Norinco displayed at the show several types of systems ranging from air-defense missiles to self-propelled anti-aircraft guns. Besides the conventional weapons, the company showed a laser system developed for neutralizing drone threats. The OW5 vehicle-mounted laser weapon system integrates multiple detection methods, such as radar and electro-optical apparatus, capable of spotting and tracking targets rapidly and accurately. Laser weapons require no ammunition supply, offer rapid strike capability and have high accuracy, according to designers. Xiao Ning, chief editor of Weapon magazine, said that recent conflicts have testified to the growing importance of unmanned platforms and their influence on the results of a conflict. Much of today's advanced land hardware has been equipped with small drones, providing advantages such as longer detection range and a clearer understanding of battlefield situations, he said. "The flying gadgets also help to reduce their carriers' reliance on command center information, thus allowing for higher operational independence," he added. (Web editor: Liang Jun, Wu Chaolan) THE BELOVED parish priest of Hacketstown Fr Jim McCormack (86) was laid to rest on Friday morning, just weeks after he celebrated the ruby anniversary of his ordination. Fr Jim, as he was known to his parishioners, served most of his career in Hacketstown, having been ordained as a missionary priest for the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. Originally from Downings, Prosperous, Co Kildare, he worked as a mechanic before joining the priesthood in 1985. The first parish that he served in was Killinarden, Tallaght from 1987 to 1996 before he was moved to Hacketstown, where he worked until his retirement in 2020. He never forgot the people of Killinarden, though, and, with the help of his Hacketstown parishioners, every year he organised an Easter egg collection and a toy collection every Christmas. On his retirement five years ago, he moved to Parke House nursing home, Kilcock, Co Kildare. Bishop Denis Nulty gave the opening address at Fr Jims requiem Mass in St Brigids church, Hacketstown on Friday 18 July, while his lifelong friend Fr Joe McGee from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart gave the homily. Poignantly, Fr Joe was also at his bedside when he passed peacefully away on Tuesday 15 July. Fr Jim has come home, said Bishop Nulty. He loved Hacketstown and Hacketstown loved Jim. Jim, in an illness that robbed him of his gentle voice, always kept that beautiful smile. I saw it on the last day of June as we gathered in Parke House, just over a fortnight ago, to honour his ruby ordination anniversary. He smiled broadly when he was reminded of the cars he serviced long before becoming a priest." Following requiem Mass, Fr Jim was laid to rest in Killybegs cemetery, Prosperous, Co Kildare. Paul Neilan A Galway farmer has been granted permission to challenge a compulsory purchase order made by planning authority An Coimisiun Pleanala (ACP) to construct a cycleway under the Connemara Greenway Project that he says would run across his land and "split" his farm, making it "unmanageable and landlocked". At the High Court, lawyers for Oliver Joyce, Emloughmore, Clifden, Co Galway, successfully applied to Ms Justice Emily Farrell to challenge the decision of ACP to grant a May 2025 compulsory purchase order (CPO) to Galway County Council relating to lands he owns at Doireliagh, Doireclunlaigh, Clifden, Co Galway. The project aims to install a cycle and walkway going from Galway city to Clifden over 76 kilometres that would go through "the backbone" of Mr Joyce's property along the old Galway-to-Clifden railway line, he claims. Mr Oliver has taken the challenge against ACP's decision to approve the compulsory acquisition with Galway County Council named as a notice party. Mr Oliver, in court papers, submits that the lands in question have been in his family since the 1940s and that he is conscious that his farmlands are located in a "highly sensitive environment" that includes marshland and hilled areas that form part of the Connemara Bog Complex SAC, a conservation area. The plaintiff submits the practice of farming the lands through generations of his family was done "in perfect symmetry with the environment" and that he is "very passionate and concerned about this". Mr Oliver claims that when the project was first proposed by the council, it was to be carried out on a permissive basis such that the council would be facilitated in accessing the lands but the lands would remain in his ownership and open so stock could travel across both sides of the farm. He submits that his lands have a mix of soil types comprising wet marsh land and dry hilly areas. He said this variety is essential in that each part is integrated and grazed with the marshy area providing water during dry periods and the hilly areas providing respite during inclement weather conditions. Mr Oliver says the project, as approved by the granting is different to the original, in that it now envisages a wider walk and cycle way. Fencing fencing and barbed wire will run for 2.8km, "splitting" the farm and making it "landlocked" and "unmanageable" as stock moves between the two portions of land on a daily basis. He submits that he was assured by the council that the lands would remain open for stock to travel and that any fencing would only be constructed when they were required by the landowner and that the application to ACP was one based on his permission. Mr Oliver claims he understood the project to initially comprise of a 2.5 metre-wide "informal track of a type that one would see in the countryside" but that the more recent, larger scheme now involved a 3.5 metre-wide asphalt track with full fencing involving "sheep wire and barbed wire". The plaintiff says he was "shocked" that after an initial agreement on the scheme, Galway County Council then said they would "accept nothing less than full ownership" and sought the CPO. Mr Oliver argues that the "fundamental basis of the scheme has been turned on its head" by the CPO and that the decision to do so was "taken without cause or justification". He further claims that environmental assessments carried out and submitted to ACP related to the original scheme and that the new elements that arose in the CPO scheme were not previously considered for environmental impact. Ms Justice Farrell granted leave for the judicial review to Michael O'Donnell BL, instructed by Harrington & Co solicitors - for Mr Oliver - and adjourned the matter to September. Vivienne Clarke Taoiseach Micheal Martin has emphatically said that he is definitely not going to run as a candidate for the presidency. Speaking on RTE radios Morning Ireland, Mr Martin said that Fianna Fail will consider a candidate in the coming weeks after taking soundings from people within the parliamentary party. When asked if he had spoken with Deirdre Heenan, Mr Martin said he had not. A lot of names have been floated in association with Fianna Fail. I'm not responsible for the flotation of any of those names, just to make that very clear. I was elected, you know, I went to the people to say I wanted to serve Cork South Central and I wanted to lead Fianna Fail into government. "I made that obligation to the public, and that's the context. No disrespect to the presidency or anything, but I gave commitments to the people that I would serve in Dail Eireann for the next five years, and that is what I'm going to do." The Taoiseach also spoke about the National Development Plan, outlining the various funding sources, including projected surpluses, receipts from Apple, and funds from the Climate and Nature Fund. "We are projecting surpluses out over the next number of years. There is the additionality of 20 billion from, as you know, the receipts from Apple, about 14 billion, all of them, will go towards the NDP, about 3 billion in terms of the AIB shares sales and a further close to 3 billion from the Climate and Nature Fund," he said. Mr Martin also emphasised the importance of infrastructure investment for job creation and economic growth, noting that the government will consider various scenarios, including IMF forecasts. Investment in infrastructure is important and critical for the future of jobs in this country. And we will look at all scenarios. Even the IMF is predicting, by the way, that we, in and around, and suggesting that we this capacity over the next five years in its forecast in terms of total expenditure spent by the Irish government in its analysis. Transport alone is receiving very substantial billions, well over 22 billion plus. So public transport will be a key feature of that. The bigger issue, which will be more private sector-driven, will be offshore wind and the development of renewables in our country. I think that's the big ticket item in respect of emissions reductions and switching from a dependence on imported fossil fuels to our own generated renewables. "There is no way you would get to 300,000 if you don't have the private Sector contributing a significant number of houses in addition to those that will be provided as a result of the national development plan." Mr Martin added that by 2030, there will be substantially more houses built, there'll be far more schools built. I mean, in the last NDP, 800 schools were built. Okay, people give this impression that very little was done with the last NDP, a hell of a lot was done through the last NDP. A whole lot of hospitals were built. Active travel, as I said, broadband, for example, has made great strides in terms of that capital plan and the last NDP didn't. Technological University of Grangegorman was also about it; 170 kilometres of road were built, so a lot got done. So a lot of those projects, more and more of those will get done in the next time. Take Iarnrod Eireann did extraordinarily good work under the last National Development Plan. The transformation of Kent Station, for example, is a good example of that. A lot of the universities, there will be good research projects invested and completed across the university sector," the Taoiseach said. "I think this development plan, for example, if you add it all up, and the Minister will give greater detail over the next number of weeks, will be a very significant one for research for universities. And that will add to the competitiveness of our economy, and that's important. CARLOW county councillor John Pender was presented with a special award last week in recognition of his remarkable 40 years of service in local politics. The presentation, made by cllr Ken Murnane, cathaoirleach of Carlow Co Council, marked an extraordinary milestone that has seen him become one of the longest-serving public representatives in Co Carlow. Cllr Ken Murnane (Cathaoirleach Carlow County Council) makes a presentation to Cllr John Pender to mark his 40 years as an elective member of Carlow County Council Since being first elected in June 1985, he has been elected in eight consecutive local elections, demonstrating the trust and respect he has earned from his constituents in the Tullow municipal district, where he was recently elected cathaoirleach. The significance of this achievement was underscored by a letter from taoiseach Micheal Martin, who praised John as a steadfast and exemplary advocate for the communities you represent, noting how his extensive tenure has been marked by both the breadth and depth of your contributions. The letter highlighted his varied roles over the decades, including serving as the first mayor of Carlow municipal district, his work with the Irish delegation of the EU communities of the regions and his involvement with education and training boards, health boards and numerous school boards. Cllr John Pender addresses the members of the council during the occasion to mark his 40 years as an elective member of Carlow County Council It is clear that your pride in your native county and your passion for public service remain as strong today as when you first took office, the taoiseach wrote. Council colleagues were unanimous in their praise of Johns dedication and wisdom. Cllr Fintan Phelan described it as a remarkable achievement, noting how he has been a great guide and a voice of experience for new members entering the chamber. John has served the people of Carlow with dedication throughout all that period and thats a testament to the strong vote he receives consistently in the electoral area of Tullow, cllr Phelan said. Cllr William Patton, the second longest-serving councillor in the chamber with 26 years of service, spoke warmly of his colleague. I have had the privilege of soldiering with John Pender and it's like I've soldiered for 26 years with a legend, he said. Cllr Patton praised his political acumen, noting: He can be quiet but when he opens his mouth you listen and you listen carefully because hes very rarely wrong. Cllr Ken Murnane (Cathaoirleach Carlow County Council) makes a presentation of a bouquet of flowers to Mary Pender wife of John during the presentation to honour his 40 years as an elective member of Carlow County Council Several colleagues highlighted cllr Penders deep connection with his constituents. Cllr Daniel Pender said: Ive never seen someone who knows the people quite as well Johnny is very well regarded by people up and down the entire county. Cllr Tommy Kinsella praised his analytical skills, particularly during elections. John was a great man for figures; he was rarely wrong, he said. This sentiment was echoed by cllr Willie Quinn, who noted: If you spoke to Johnny Pender six months before local elections and Johnny told you you were safe, you were safe. The respect cllr Pender commanded was evident in tribute after tribute from colleagues across party lines. Cllr John Pender on the occasion to mark 40 years as an elective member of Carlow County Council is shown with Minister Jennifer Murnane-OConnor, Cllr Ken Murnane (Cathaoirleach Carlow County Council) and councillors Daniel Pender, Andrea Dalton and Fintan Phelan Cllr Michael Doran of Fine Gael reflected on the fundamental nature of public service, saying: The basic thing about public service is you have to like people. If you like people they will respond to you and I think John over the years has liked people and has liked to help them over his 40 years of public life and there's a lot to be learned from that. Cllr Andrea Dalton described him as someone who has provided a lifetime of service to Carlow, to Tullow, noting that hes been an exemplary public servant and hes always done his best to promote Tullow, promote Carlow and to work very hard for his constituents. Colleagues consistently praised not just cllr Penders dedication but his wisdom and good humour in council proceedings. Cllr Fergal Browne said: Johnny might not necessarily contribute much at every council meeting, but he will often be the wisest person here in the chamber and he can certainly read the way the wind is blowing. Cllr Patton fondly remembered cllr Pender's various nicknames over the years, including smiling Pender'. Thank god hes still smiling, he said. The independent councillor added: "I've always said to new managers coming in to keep one eye on John Pender and one on the rest of us. Whichever way John Pender is going to vote, the chances are Im going to be following him because I know quite well hes got the grasp of every issue going here. Many members of the council have experienced Mr Penders mentoring approach. Cllr Brian ODonoghue recalled: One of the first times I interacted with cllr Pender in this chamber was, I was about two months here and I made a comment about being a new councillor but feeling like a first-year student and that the executive were like the teachers and Johnny responded that in that case he was a leaving cert student. This exchange left cllr ODonoghue wondering whether cllr Pender was in his last term or most likely going to run longer than the rest of them. Cllr Jim Deane praised him as a good Tinryland man who has a lot of respect in that area and in the Tullow municipality. Chief executive Coilin O'Reilly joined in the tributes, recalling with humour his first meeting with Mr Pender. I think I realised the first day I met cllr Pender that I had a formidable foe. He asked me what party I was, I said I have no parties, to which he replied everyone has a party." Cllr Anthony Gladney wished cllr Pender well, noting that hes been a very good friend of mine for years, while jokingly adding: if you want to know a rogue, Johnnys the biggest rogue. Throughout the tributes, colleagues consistently acknowledged the vital role played by cllr Penders wife Mary. Cllr Fergal Browne spoke for many when he said: His wife Mary deserves a huge amount of credit, too. Shes a fantastic lady and no doubt an important part of the election successes over the years, along with the rest of his family Barbara, Suzanne and Daniel." Cllr Jim Deane summed up the sentiment: We all know behind every good man is a good woman and I would say Mary deserves a gold medal at this stage. During his speech, cllr Pender acknowledged another familys long service, recognising 40 years of service by the Murnane family, including TD Jennifer Murnane who was present for the presentation. In response, cllr Pender reflected on his long career with characteristic humour, saying he asked cllr Andrea Dalton to pinch me because the sort of comments I was hearing are usually being said about someone who has, unfortunately, passed on. He recalled his early dedication to the role, including his work as chair of the Carlow sheep dipping committee, where he defended local farmers against allegations of sheep scab outbreaks on the Blackstairs mountains. When questioned about attending numerous meetings, he responded: "There were serious allegations being made about an outbreak of sheep scab on the Blackstairs and they were all blaming the Carlow farmers, so I had to be there to defend them." Cllr Pender thanked the electorate of the Tullow municipal district for showing their confidence and trust and faith in me over a long time. He expressed optimism about the councils future: I think we have a great council here in Carlow. Weve made great progress. I think we have always had a good spirit of co-operation within the council. We have our argy-bargies or disagreements or whatever, but I think we have a good county and it behoves all of us to maintain that, not alone to maintain it, but to also enhance and improve it in years ahead. Growing up in rural Utah, Leanne Webster felt out of place. Hunting horrified her, as did eating lamb, even as her brothers geared up with their rifles and her father ranched sheep. In a place where others hardly existed, she gravitated to people different from her and despised bullies. She left town the day after high school graduation, armed with a sense of fairness and determined to do good in the world. In May 2024, Webster joined The Carter Center as the director of its Rule of Law Program, which supports civil society organizations in advocating for their rights, while working with government entities to help make this aspiration a reality through improved accountability and transparency. We should all be able to live up to our full potential, and the government is meant to help create the conditions that allow for that, she said. I help facilitate those conditions. It means, for example, working with the justice sector in Sierra Leone to implement laws that improve the status and representation of women. Its conducting trainings in Bangladesh, so marginalized groups are aware of their right to information and government officials strengthen their ability to provide it. Its training police on gender sensitivity in Costa Rica and then seeing those officers train others. Its empowering youth groups to conduct social audits to hold local governments accountable in Guatemala. Websters path to the Center was circuitous. She first thought shed make her mark as an environmental lawyer, but the introductory coursework in law school at University of Utah turned her off. After graduating, she joined a firm to do corporate litigation, where she was miscast but managed to pay off her loans. She hit reset, and grew much happier, much more aligned, she said, when she turned her attention to public interest work and headed to New York University for a masters in nonprofit management. While waiting for clearances to become a foreign service officer with the U.S. Agency for International Development, she served as a community organizer with Planned Parenthood in Utah and got a crash course in politics. Websters more than five years with USAID as a democracy and governance officer took her to posts in El Salvador, Afghanistan, and Paraguay. After leaving the agency, she worked with implementers of U.S. government-funded programs, mostly in Latin America, for another decade. What drew her to The Carter Center was its diversified funding, its ability to keep politics out of money and do more innovative work with fewer strings attached. I just thought theres got to be another way, she said. I wanted to do more than just follow instructions. Success shows up in attitudinal shifts, she says, changes that improve peoples lives through a long-game approach. The work requires being OK with taking one step forward and two steps back and recognizing that having a seat at the table is often as important as producing immediate results. For these reasons, shes on a mission to push for continued financial support of the Bangladesh program, which took a major hit when the U.S. government slashed funding leaving only a skeleton team behind just as a reform-minded interim government presents opportunities for inroads. Weve made so much investment there, and we dont want to lose those gains. We dont want to give up our presence, she said. Fortunately, she knows shes not alone in this fight. I find comfort and encouragement within The Carter Center because we all share this passion and dedication, she said. I have a lot of faith in our capabilities. Related Resources Rule of Law Program In Bangladesh, USAID Cuts Force Womens Program to Reimagine Whats Possible Advertisement The Taiwanese Ministry of Finance's (MOF) customs administration says that it will impose an anti-dumping duty on Portland cement and clinker from Vietnam for five years beginning 28 July. In a news release, the agency said that cement products imported from Long Son Company Ltd and its affiliate, Long Son Industrials Co Ltd, will face a tariff rate of 13.59 per cent. Thang Long Cement JSC will be taxed at 19.25 per cent, while Vissai Ninh Binh JSC, Xuan Thanh Cement JSC, and Vicem Ha Tien Cement JSC - Vicem Ha Tien Cement Sales & Services Enterprise will be subject to a 14.82 per cent rate. All other Vietnamese manufacturers and exporters will be taxed at 23.2 per cent. The decision was jointly finalised by the MOF and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), confirming that the Vietnamese companies had engaged in dumping and caused substantial harm to local Taiwanese producers, the administration said. The MOEA also found no sufficient evidence indicating that the duties would have a markedly negative impact on Vietnam's overall economic benefits, according to the agency's release. To qualify for the individual duty rates, Taiwanese importers must submit documentation identifying the exporter or manufacturer for customs review, the agency said. Otherwise, the highest specified rate will apply. An investigation on Vietnamese cement dumping was launched in August 2024, after the Taiwan Cement Industry Association applied for anti-dumping duties, citing suspected dumping and harm to domestic industries. Drivers traveling on I-75 in Bradley and McMinn Counties should be aware of an active resurfacing project that will temporarily impact traffic. Happening Tuesday night, and continuing nightly (Sunday Friday) from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time, Tennessee Department of Transportation contract crews will perform temporary lane closures on I-75 in both directions from mile marker 31 to mile marker 39 for resurfacing activities. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. In addition, temporary overnight closures of the Exit 36 interstate ramps will be necessary as construction progresses. The contract completion date is October 31, 2025. These nightly traffic impacts will remain throughout the duration of the project. Drivers are encouraged to use caution as they travel through this area and expect delays. This work is weather-dependent. Should inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances cause delays, it will be rescheduled for a later date. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel. Get the latest construction activity traffic updates from the TDOT SmartWay Map. Travelers can also call 511 for statewide travel information. City Councilman Ron Elliott said the council should increase the income level for the city's senior tax relief program to the maximum allowed by the state. The current limit is for property owners making less than $48,250. The state has a maximum of $60,000. For those who qualify, their property tax rate would be frozen at the current level. There is a requirement for reapplying every year. Councilman Elliott said, "I hope very many more of our citizens will take advantage of this. It's about protecting our seniors. This is one of the few ways we can protect our citizens." He said the city abated $136,000 under the program last year. A number of council members said they support raising the limit. Middle Valley Church of God, at 1703 Thrasher Pike in Hixson, announces that Pastor Mitch McClure will be preaching on Sunday, in the 10:30 a.m. service. His topic will be, "I Needed Him And He Was With Me." The message will focus on the reality that each of us have needs and that Jesus Christ is with us in all of our needs. All are welcome to participate. Each Sunday at 5:30 p.m. the church conducts a prayer meeting, which is open to all who wish to participate and is designed to encourage prayer.Information on various methods of prayer will be shared with participants. The goal of this prayer meeting is to encourage Believers to seek God through prayer. All are welcome to participate. Each Wednesday at 7 p.m., an interactive, interesting, and informative Bible Study will be held in the church auditorium. Kelly Selby is currently leading this Bible study. All are welcome to participate. The goal of this Bible study is to encourage believers to study the Bible and discuss with others, making the Scripture their guide. Middle Valley Church of God is a community focused church with various ministries in the Middle Valley area and in Cusuna, Honduras. The community is welcome to join in times of worship and community service. MVCOG has been ministering in the Middle Valley Community since 1948 from the same location. If you have questions, please contact the church office at 423 843-1539. All are welcome. Please note that MVCOG will make public announcements about dangerous road conditions and cancellations. Postings about cancellations will be made on the church Facebook page. Please look there for information. Christmas In July is taking place at Chester Frost Park next Tuesday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. inside the CFP Pavilion, 7989 Causeway Road in Hixson."We're sleighing the summer heat with a little bit of holiday cheer," officials said.Free Christmas crafts, including supplies, will be provided. There will be Christmas music, holiday movie, food vendors, free games, free parking and family fun for all. All ages are welcome.No registration is required. This is a rain or shine event.See the Facebook Event Page at https://www.facebook.com/share/1DL44hBxFN/.For more information, contact Recreation Specialist Kylee Saunders at 423-710-0274 or KyleeS@HamiltonTN.gov. Kelly Osbourne did not like seeing rumors about her parents crop up. Here's what she said about their alleged death pact. Ozzy Osbourne recently played his final concert, kicking off a flurry of rumors about his supposed death pact with wife Sharon Osbourne. In 2007, Sharon spoke about her decision to end her life if she ever got a neurological condition. Some social media users have shared this story with the added detail that the Osbournes planned to die together. Their daughter, Kelly, shut down these rumors. Sharon Osbourne spoke about the plans she and Ozzy Osbourne had for the end of their lives Years ago, Sharon revealed that both she and her husband had put a great deal of thought into the end of their lives. If they ever got a condition that impacted their brains, they wanted to die on their own terms. Ozzy and I have absolutely come to the same decision. We believe 100 per cent in euthanasia so have drawn up plans to go to the assisted suicide flat in Switzerland if we ever have an illness that affects our brains, she told The Mirror. If Ozzy or I ever got Alzheimers, thats it wed be off. We gathered the kids around the kitchen table, told them our wishes and theyve all agreed to go with it. She said they came to this decision after watching the progression of her own fathers Alzheimers. Some say the disease is hereditary so at the first sign I want to be put out of my misery, she said. Ozzy and I have asked our lawyers to make the appropriate arrangements. Its taken away some of the fear of our ending and is a final gift of love to our kids. Kelly Osbourne shut down rumors about Ozzy and Sharon Osbournes death pact After Osbourne played his final concert on July 5, many people began to speculate about his health. He was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease in 2019. Some social media users even claimed that he left the concert to go to Switzerland. Kelly took to her Instagram account to criticize people speculating about her fathers health. Theres this video going around on social media, and its supposed to be my dad, but its AI, she said, per E! News. It has a voice like my dads David Attenborough or something. And it starts out saying, I dont need a doctor to tell me that Im going to die. I know Im going to die. What the f*** is wrong with you people? Why would you spend your time making a video like this? She said that while Parkinsons had affected his life, he was not near death. Hes not dying, she said. Yes, he has Parkinsons, and yes, his mobility is completely different than it used to be, but hes not dying. What is wrong with you? She also slammed the rumors of the suicide pact, which she said her mother had only said for attention. Stop making articles or posts about how you think my parents are having a suicide pact, she said. That was bulls*** my mom said to get attention one time. And my dads not dying. Stop. His family recently announced his death Several weeks after Osbournes final concert, however, his family announced his death. It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning, the family said in a statement. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Osbourne was 76. The Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice (DOJ) Building in Washington, D.C. | Photo Credit: Official Website of the DOJ (https://www.justice.gov) The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced the dismissal of a Biden-era challenge to a Tennessee law that prohibits the use of puberty-blocking drugs, cross-sex hormones, and experimental sex-change surgeries to treat gender dysphoria in minors, following a recent Supreme Court ruling. Attorney General Pam Bondi revealed on Monday that the DOJ's Civil Rights Division filed a notice of voluntary dismissal, stating that the Trump administration is no longer in the business of attacking laws like Tennessee's that protect children. Bondi highlighted the Supreme Courts decision last month in United States v. Skrmetti, where the justices, in a 6-3 ruling, found that Tennessees Senate Bill 1, passed in March 2023, did not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The court dismissed the arguments presented by trans activists and the Biden administration, affirming that the law was lawful. The DOJ emphasized that the Supreme Court's ruling upheld a law that protects vulnerable children from genital mutilation and other so-called gender-affirming care, and described the decision as the right decision. The United States today undid one of the injustices the Biden administration inflicted upon the country by dismissing a lawsuit against a Tennessee law that protects minors from invasive and mutilating procedures, said Harmeet K. Dhillon, assistant attorney general of the Civil Rights Division, in a statement. She added, The Justice Department will continue to fight to protect the health and welfare of our children and defend states that seek to ban these barbaric practices. The plaintiffs who challenged the law in April 2023 argued that restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors violated the 14th Amendments Equal Protection Clause. The Biden administration's DOJ initially intervened to support the case but, as of February, at the start of President Donald Trumps second term, it submitted a letter to the court stating that the U.S. government has now determined that SB1 does not deny equal protection on account of sex or any other characteristic. In light of the United States' determination that SB1 does not deny equal protection on account of sex or any other characteristic, and the Supreme Court's decision in Skrmetti, the United States' participation in this matter no longer serves the statutory purpose set forth in [the statute], the notice of voluntary dismissal read. In recent years, over two dozen states have enacted laws or policies that bar medical professionals from performing or supervising surgical or hormonal interventions for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria. In January, Trump signed an executive order declaring that the federal government will not fund, sponsor, promote, assist, or support the so-called transition of a child from one sex to another, and vowed to rigorously enforce laws against these procedures. The administration also opposed biological male athletes who identify as female competing in womens sports, warning to withdraw federal funding from schools and states that permit male to compete in womens categories. Photo Credit: Unsplash/ Taylor Brandon U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee stated that the U.S. Embassy, Israels Interior Ministry, and the Prime Ministers Office agreed on a streamlined and efficient application process for granting visas to Evangelical organizations. Attorney Calev Myers, representing the Evangelical organizations, informed ALL ISRAEL NEWS, A solution has been reached to the satisfaction of all parties. The Evangelical Christian organizations active in Israel, which represent the vast majority of Zionists in the world today, will receive all of the visas they need through a streamlined and efficient application process. Later, Huckabee confirmed on his X account, The issue concerning visas for American Evangelical organizations has been fully resolved. Starting in January, a change in the manner in which visas for Christian organizations had been processed for decades led to serious challenges bureaucratically and financially for the groups. The problem gained public attention after Israeli media disclosed a strongly worded letter from Huckabee to the Interior Ministry and Israeli leaders. In the letter, he threatened to declare Israel as unfriendly to Evangelical Christian organizations and mentioned the possibility of withholding visas for Israelis in retaliation. Huckabee noted that upon his arrival as ambassador earlier this year, he observed that changes in the visa process were causing delays, costs, and significant burdens with paperwork. Although he believed the issue was resolved after discussions with Interior Minister Arbel months ago, Evangelical organizations continued to report problems. Myers confirmed to AIN that the challenges faced by organizations such as the Baptist Convention of Israel, Christian Missionary Alliance, and Assemblies of God were similar to those supposedly resolved by the ministry in 2023. Upon learning that issues persisted, Huckabee contacted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office, emphasizing the negative impact on Israels relationship with the American evangelical community. A source from the Prime Ministers Office, cited by the Jewish Insider, stated that Israel has absolutely no interest in undermining the freedom [of workers and volunteers for Christian organizations] coming to Israel and expressed the importance of addressing the problem. Huckabee emphasized that the Christian organizations did not request special treatment, but a return to the efficient process that had existed for many years. He concluded, I am delighted to report that the issue has been resolved to everyones satisfaction and the strong support that Israel enjoys from American evangelicals will continue. Home News 'Blessing from God': Former co-stars remember Malcolm-Jamal Warner The news of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner's accidental death during a family vacation in Costa Rica sparked an outpouring of grief from former co-stars who remembered "The Cosby Show" star as a source of "light" and a "blessing from God." Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department said that Warner, 54, was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him further out to sea, The Associated Press reported Monday. Several people on the beach managed to rescue Warner, but first responders from Costa Rica's Red Cross declared him dead due to a lack of vital signs. Warner leaves behind a wife and a daughter, both of whom were reportedly on vacation with him at the time of his death. A former child star, the actor and director rose to national prominence by starring in the sitcom "The Cosby Show." From the 1980s to the early 90s, Warner played Theo Huxtable, the third child and only son of Heathcliff Huxtable, played by comedian Bill Cosby. Warner's portrayal of Theo earned the actor an Emmy nomination in 1986 for best supporting comedy actor. In addition to "The Cosby Show," Warner's other credits include the television series "Malcolm & Eddie" and "The Resident." The following pages feature reactions from co-stars to the actor's death. Home News Family of Muslim man who raped 14-year-old Christian girl pressure parents to drop charges LAHORE, Pakistan Relatives of a Pakistani Muslim man who raped a 14-year-old Christian girl are threatening her family to compel them to drop the charges. Javed Masih of Chak No. R-97/6 village in Sahiwal District, Punjab Province, said that Sajid Ali, the married son of his employer Mukhtar Ali, went to his house on June 14 while Masih and his wife were working in the fields and raped their daughter while she was alone at home. The accused raped her at gunpoint and before leaving threatened her that he would kill me if she told anyone about the incident, Masih told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Fearing for my life, my innocent daughter kept silent about the barbarity that she had suffered at the hands of Sajid Ali. Masih said that he and his wife learned of the assault two weeks later, after they became concerned that their daughter, whose name is withheld as a rape victim, was not acting like her usual self. A ninth-grade student who normally had a lively personality, she was avoiding her parents and siblings, he said. When her mother finally convinced her to share what was troubling her, she started crying and told her how Sajid Ali had raped her and threatened her to keep her mouth shut, said Masih, a member of the local Brethren Church. Though devastated, the impoverished family decided to keep silent about the assault for the sake of their childrens safety, he said. To be honest, our minds went numb with shock and fear, and we thought it was best for our family if we just kept quiet, Masih said. Sajid Alis family is extremely influential in the area due to their political connections and wealth, while we did not stand any chance to get justice due to our poverty and Christian faith. The familys silence, however, emboldened the assailant, and he again targeted her on July 12, Masih said. We were working in the fields when someone told us that they had seen Sajid entering our house, he said. We quickly rushed home only to hear [name withheld] screaming in pain. I forced open the rooms door and saw Sajid attempting to rape my daughter. He threatened to kill us if we tried to stop him from escaping, but we got hold of him and immediately called the police. Soon after police took Ali into custody and registered a case against him, his family began to pressure Masih to settle out of court, he said. When the police conducted her medical examination and confirmed that she had been raped, Alis family offered me 1 million Pakistani rupees [$3,500 USD] to withdraw the case, he said. When I rejected their offer, they started threatening me with dire consequences if I did not accept their demand. A team from legal group Christians True Spirit contacted him and offered unconditional support, he said. Though the accused is now in prison on judicial remand, his family has stepped up their threats, and Im very concerned about my daughters security, Masih said. Masih asked for prayer as they begin the struggle to get justice. Ali has been booked under Section 376 (iii) of the Pakistan Penal Code relating to rape of a minor, punishable with either death or imprisonment for life, and Section 511, said Katherine Sapna of Christians True Spirit. Section 511 covers situations where someone intends to commit a crime and takes steps toward it but fails to complete the act due to circumstances beyond their control. CTS has also requested police add Section 452 of the PPC, which pertains to house-trespass after preparation for causing hurt, assault or wrongful restraint, she said. The accuseds family wields considerable influence in the area and may attempt to harm the girl or the family to prevent them from pursuing the case in court, Sapna said. We are cognizant of the threat and will take all measures necessary to protect them. The CTS executive director said she regretted that incidents of sexual violence against Christian girls, particularly from poor families, had increased in Punjab Province in recent years. This is mainly because the perpetrators think that they can get away with anything since their victims are too weak to oppose them, she said. Many Christian families are forced to suffer in silence due to barriers to access to justice, she added. Pakistan, whose population is more than 96% Muslim, ranked eighth on Open Doors 2025 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian. This article was originally published at Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News Home News Evangelist shares impactful encounters at pagan convention: 'You cant beat people into the Kingdom' Former medium-turned-Christian apologist Jenn Nizza recently sat down with Don Veinot, president of Midwest Christian Outreach, to discuss what happens when believers show up at Paganicon, an annual convention for pagans, Wiccans and spiritual seekers, in the name of Jesus. In a recent episode of Nizza's podcast, "Ex Psychic Saved," titled Outreach to Cults, Pagans, and Atheists: What Happens When Christians Show Up at Paganicon, Veinot shared how he and his team regularly attend the annual pagan spirituality convention to share the Gospel with those mired in deception. Raised by an atheist father and a spiritually curious mother who was into astrology and fortune telling, Veinot shared his journey from disbelief to Christianity. I couldnt really be honest and be an atheist, he said. Because theres a claim to know something I cant know. I cant know God doesnt exist, right? Veinot came to Christ after reading books recommended by his wife, Joy. I thought, Ill go with the guy who raised Himself from the dead instead of the guy who just thinks he knows stuff, he recalled. Listen to the Ex-Psychic Saved podcast Eventually, the couple began ministry work by reaching Jehovahs Witnesses through audio tapes and hotline support. One family left the Watchtower Society after listening to Joys tapes, including a man who had been a Jehovahs Witness for 35 years. We are in a ministry because of that womans prayer. Thats how it started, Veinot said. That same heart for outreach would eventually lead Don and Joy into more unconventional spaces, including Paganicon. So thats how we got started in kind of reaching out to Wiccans, Veinot explained. You need to grow in your faith. You need to understand the Scriptures. You need to be discipled in the faith. Because there literally is a cult or religion out there for you. Nizza added, This is something thats serious. This is a lie that has been going on for a very long time, and really sucks a lot of people in. The episode unpacked the rise of the divine feminine and neo-pagan trends in pop culture. We are in the age of re-enchantment, Veinot said. And you know, a lot of people dont even know what it is Im talking about when we say that. Reflecting on the broader cultural shift, Veinot said, It took about 300 years for the church to transform a pagan society into Western culture. For the last 200 years, pagans have been trying to return the favor. The decline of Christianity occurred simultaneously with a growth in spirituality, which suggests the future of the West will not be one of atheistic, secular materialism, but of re-enchantment and Neo-Paganism, he said. So that is where we're heading, especially if the Church doesn't sort of get its act together, because the Church becomes a stabilizing influence in culture, even if people are not Christian. Veinot described Paganicon as a spiritually diverse gathering, where Wiccans, satanists, Druids, and New Agers converge. We are going to their house, right? Were a guest in their environment, he said. Which means we have to be respectful. Were going to share the Gospel. Thats primarily what were doing. But this isnt for everybody, he added. I wouldnt recommend every Christian run out there. He emphasized the importance of preparation and humility. We ask questions. People like questions, Veinot said. They dont feel attacked. The team, he noted, discovered that around 80% of Paganicon attendees come from Christian backgrounds. They were in extremely legalistic kinds of churches they werent really getting the answers to the spiritual questions they were asking, and they were put down for even asking them, he said. Nizza responded, That sounds like a fun club. And in our club, there are no wrongs, there is only your truth. The conversation turned toward truth and ethics. We did an article titled 'Why Not Burn Witches?' If everything is one and everything is god theres no absolute truth or morality or ethics, Veinot explained. I would defend Wiccans from being harmed in physical ways. I dont think thats right. Why? That comes from a Judeo-Christian ethic, he added. As the episode neared its conclusion, Nizza asked Veinot if hed received any testimonies of lives changed from Paganicon outreach. Yes, we have, he said. From time to time, weve had individuals either contact us by phone or by email to remind us of a conversation that we had five years ago, maybe. One story stood out: a satanist who had previously cursed Veinot later approached him in repentance. He comes running over and he goes, Are you OK? I said, Yeah, Im fine. Why? Well, I was so angry at you, I cast spells on you I needed to tell you I have become a Christian. You impacted me just by your demeanor. You cant beat people into the Kingdom, Veinot added. Nizza responded, We have to remember these are people that are lost, people as we once were. Home News Democrat mayor agrees to Trump's 48-hour detainer policy to avoid 'terrifying' ICE raids City officials in Louisville, Kentucky, have agreed to comply with the Trump administration's 48-hour immigration detainer requests, thereby enabling the town to be removed from President Donald Trump's "sanctuary city" list. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, a Democrat, issued a statement on Tuesday, noting that he received a letter from the U.S. Department of Justice in June explaining that the city has been placed on Republican President Trump's "sanctuary cities" list. "It stated that the Trump Administration deemed Louisville to be a 'sanctuary city' because we are in violation of federal law for not holding inmates in custody at our jail for up to 48 hours on what are called immigration detainers," Greenberg explained. "A detainer is a federal document that asks a jail to hold a specific inmate, who is already in custody for a crime and is also unlawfully present in the United States, for extra time, to allow the federal government to take custody of that inmate." The 48-hour detainer is standard practice in Kentucky's Department of Corrections and was standard practice for the Louisville Metro Corrections until 2017. Louisville is the only city in the state that doesn't follow the practice and only provides about a five to 12 hours of notice to federal authorities before releasing inmates, the mayor said. "I have been assured by the U.S. Department of Justice that, if we reinstate the 48-hour detainers for inmates who've been arrested for crimes, Louisville will be taken off the federal sanctuary city list," Greenberg said. He claimed the decision to adhere to 48-hour detainer requests doesn't change how the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections operates, adding that it "is only about inmates who are arrested for crimes, are booked in our jail, and are subject to deportation notices." Having the federal government remove Louisville from their "sanctuary city" list is "critical," the mayor said, noting that cities on the list have been subject to "a terrifying increase in raids by ICE, including mass raids." "I've talked with leaders within our immigrant community before I made this decision," Greenberg added. "I heard their fears loud and clear about current federal policies and ICE actions. I also heard that they want Louisville off the federal sanctuary city list." "I believe we will best protect our law-abiding immigrant community and our entire city by focusing the Trump Administration's immigration enforcement actions on the few inmates in our jail who have been arrested for committing crimes and are subject to deportation." Since Trump took office in January, U.S. immigration authorities have initiated multiple efforts throughout the country to crack down on illegal immigration, including increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids and deportations. According to the Center for Immigration Studies, a conservative think tank, over a dozen states, the District of Columbia as well as over 200 cities and counties in the United States have sanctuary policies in place to protect those who enter the U.S. illegally. In April, Trump posted a statement saying that his administration was "working on papers to withhold all Federal Funding" from sanctuary cities, labeling them "Death Traps" that "protect criminals, not the victims." While the Trump administration initially posted a list online of such sanctuary jurisdictions in late May, the list was eventually removed because several entries were not sanctuary cities. Home News NY pays $225K to end legal battle with Christian photographer over same-sex weddings Two months after a federal judge blocked New York from forcing a Christian photographer to provide services for same-sex weddings, the state has agreed to a settlement bringing four years of litigation to an end. As part of the agreement reached Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, New York's Democratic Attorney General Letitia James and Commissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights Denise Miranda have been ordered not to enforce several provisions of New York's antidiscrimination laws against Emilee Carpenter Photography. Under the terms of the agreement, the defendants will pay $225,000 in attorney's fees stemming from the litigation first filed by Carpenter in 2021. Carpenter's lawsuit stemmed from her concern that New York state law would require her to provide services for same-sex weddings despite her religious objections to doing so. U.S. District Judge Frank Geraci, an Obama appointee, issued an order in favor of Carpenter in May. The judge prohibited the state from forcing "Plaintiffs to offer to same-sex couples the same engagement- and wedding-photography services they provide to opposite-sex couples" and "prevent Plaintiffs from asking prospective clients questions sufficient to determine whether they seek photography services celebrating a same-sex wedding or engagement or from asking materially similar questions." The state also can't prohibit Carpenter from adopting her "desired Beliefs and Practices policy" and sharing it on her website, social media or in conversations with prospective clients. Attorneys for Carpenter, from the Alliance Defending Freedom and Dague & Martin, agreed to the terms of the settlement on July 7, while attorneys for the defendants signed off on it on July 8. The terms of the settlement took effect on Tuesday with Geraci's signature. Alliance Defending Freedom Senior Counsel Bryan Neihart praised the development. "Free speech is for everyone, and we're pleased to settle this case so that Emilee can speak her views on marriage without being punished by New York," he said in a statement Tuesday. "As the Supreme Court reaffirmed in 303 Creative, the government can't force Americans to say things they don't believe." "The U.S. Constitution protects Emilee's freedom to express her own beliefs as she continues to serve clients of all backgrounds and beliefs. New Yorkers can now enjoy the freedom to create and express themselves, a freedom that protects all Americans regardless of their views," he added. The U.S. Supreme Court's 303 Creative LLC v. Elenisruling in 2023 stated that the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from using "expressive activity to compel speech." While Carpenter's lawsuit predates the 303 Creative decision by two years, the decision prompted the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to order the U.S. District Court to rehear Carpenter's case after it had ruled against her. Although Carpenter never faced litigation for refusing to provide services for a same-sex wedding, other business owners across the U.S. have faced legal battles because they declined to participate in same-sex weddings due to their religious beliefs. Aaron and Melissa Klein, a Christian couple based in Oregon, faced $135,000 in fines for declining to make a cake for a same-sex wedding. Barronelle Stutzman, a florist based in Washington state, paid $5,000 to end litigation stemming from her objection to providing flowers for a same-sex wedding. Home News Pastor, wife who claim God told them to sell cryptocurrency indicted on fraud charges Online pastor Eligio "Eli" Regalado and his wife, Kaitlyn, who led Victorious Grace Church, were indicted on 40 counts of fraud by a grand jury in Denver, Colorado, in connection with an alleged cryptocurrency scam they claim God told them to operate. Colorado Securities Commissioner Tung Chan filed civil fraud charges against the Regalados, along with INDXcoin, LLC, Kingdom Wealth Exchange, LLC, and others for allegedly violating the anti-fraud, licensing and registration provisions of the Colorado Securities Act. The couple had sold a cryptocurrency they called INDXcoin to their Christian followers, claiming that it would make them rich. According to The Denver Post, Eligio Regalado told his followers that "the Lord brought this cryptocurrency to me. He (God) said, Take this to my people for a wealth transfer. It is coming, people, he added, declaring at the time that "many of you very soon are going to have more money than youve ever had in your life by participating in this crypto. Prosecutors allege in court documents that investigators from the Colorado Division of Securities found that from June 2022 to April 2023, INDXcoin raised nearly $3.2 million from more than 300 individuals who were recruited as investors from Christian communities in Denver. These charges mark a major step forward in our work to hold the Regalados accountable for their alleged crimes and to bring a measure of justice to the victims, Denver District Attorney John Walsh said in a statement on Monday. The red flags were their expenses for personal purposes, Ioana Dobra, a fraud investigator with the Colorado Division of Securities, said about an audit of the couples bank accounts. The audit found that the couple had spent some of the money on jewelry purchases, vacations, airline tickets, clothing, and home remodeling. Even after authorities shut down INDXcoin and Kingdom Wealth Exchange, Regalado insisted to investors that God had everything under control while he splurged around $1.3 million on personal expenses. Regalado also insisted that he was simply following what he believed to be Gods voice. "There's been $1.3 million that's been taken out of, I think it was, a total of $3.4 million. But out of that $1.3, half a million dollars went to the IRS, and a few hundred thousand went to a home remodel that the Lord told us to do," Regalado said in a nine-minute video to his followers that was reset to private last year. "We sold a cryptocurrency with no clear exit. We did," he told viewers. "We took God at His word and sold a cryptocurrency with no clear exit. And so, the prosecutors have to take that and say, 'These people willingly sold a cryptocurrency with no clear exit.' What we're praying for and what we're believing for still is that God is going to do a miracle. God is going to work a miracle in the financial sector." In May, Regalado and his wife argued in court filings from a civil court bench trial cited by the Denver Gazette that they believed INDXcoin was a utility coin to join faith-based communities and not a security. As a result of that claim, the couple argued that they did not need to license or register their cryptocurrency. The Colorado Securities Commissioner is seeking a permanent injunction, a freeze on the Regalados assets and $3.4 million in restitution against the couple. We allege that Mr. Regalado took advantage of the trust and faith of his own Christian community and that he peddled outlandish promises of wealth to them when he sold them essentially worthless cryptocurrencies, Chans office said in a statement in January. Home News Pentecostal church demolished by Sudanese authorities without warning JUBA, South Sudan Authorities in Sudan demolished a church complex in Khartoum North, sources said. With no prior warning, bulldozers and trucks accompanied by police and armed forces personnel arrived at the compound of the Pentecostal Church in the El-Haj Yousif area of East Nile District at noon on July 8 and began demolishing the church building, sources told local media. Officials initially gave no reason for demolishing the building, which included a worship hall and administrative offices, sources said. It was shocking, one eyewitness reportedly said. The church, which belongs to the Sudan Pentecostal Church denomination (SPC), constructed the building in the early 1990s, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). Christians have called on the Sudan Council of Churches, an ecumenical body, to take notice of the religious freedom violation. Officials reportedly did not ask for ownership papers of the church building before demolishing it. Authorities later told church officials the building was destroyed as part of a drive to remove unregulated buildings throughout Khartoum state, according to Christian support group Open Doors. Last month, Rafat Samir, a church leader and the chairman of the Evangelical Community Council for Sudan, warned that the future of the church in Sudan remains precarious under the SAFs de facto government, Open Doors reported. They will target all churches in the outlying areas of the main cities and demolish them with a direct attack, he said after last weeks incident. As for the large churches within the city centers, they will target them by using other apparently lawful reasons to destroy the church buildings. Church leaders condemned the destruction, describing it as part of an increase in persecution against Christians in Sudan. We urge all Christians to pray so that this strengthens us in this persecution, and pray for the church in Sudan, area Pastor Juma Sapana stated on his Facebook page. The demolition comes after the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in May declared it had liberated Khartoum from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) with which it has been locked in a battle since April 15, 2023, though fighting continues in neighboring Omdurman. Both the SAF and the RSF have attacked places of worship since then. Sudan was ranked No. 5 among the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian in Open Doors 2025 World Watch List (WWL), down from No. 8 the prior year. Conditions in Sudan worsened as civil war that broke out in April 2023 intensified. Sudan registered increases in the number of Christians killed and sexually assaulted, and Christian homes and businesses attacked, according to the WWL report. Christians of all backgrounds are trapped in the chaos, unable to flee. Churches are shelled, looted and occupied by the warring parties, the report stated. Both the RSF and the SAF are Islamist forces that have attacked displaced Christians on accusations of supporting the others combatants. The conflict between the RSF and the SAF, which had shared military rule in Sudan following an October 2021 coup, has terrorized civilians in Khartoum and elsewhere, killing tens of thousands and displacing more than 11.9 million people within and beyond Sudans borders, according to the U.N. Commissioner for Human Rights (UNCHR). The SAFs Gen. Abdelfattah al-Burhan and his then-Vice President, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, were in power when civilian parties in March 2023 agreed on a framework to re-establish a democratic transition the next month, but disagreements over military structure torpedoed final approval. Burhan sought to place the RSF a paramilitary outfit with roots in the Janjaweed militias that had helped former strongman Al-Bashir put down rebels under the regular armys control within two years, while Dagolo would accept integration within nothing fewer than 10 years. Both military leaders have Islamist backgrounds while trying to portray themselves to the international community as pro-democracy advocates of religious freedom. Sudan had dropped out of the top 10 of the WWL list for the first time in six years when it first ranked No. 13 in 2021. Following two years of advances in religious freedom in Sudan after the end of the Islamist dictatorship under Bashir in 2019, the specter of state-sponsored persecution returned with the military coup of Oct. 25, 2021. After Bashir was ousted from 30 years of power in April 2019, the transitional civilian-military government had managed to undo some Sharia (Islamic law) provisions. It outlawed the labeling of any religious group as infidels and thus effectively rescinded apostasy laws that made leaving Islam punishable by death. With the Oct. 25, 2021, coup, Christians in Sudan feared the return of the most repressive and harsh aspects of Islamic law. The U.S. State Department in 2019 removed Sudan from the list of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) that engage in or tolerate systematic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom and upgraded it to a watch list. Sudan had previously been designated as a CPC from 1999 to 2018. In December 2020, the State Department removed Sudan from its Special Watch List. The Christian population of Sudan is estimated at 2 million, or 4.5% of the total population of more than 43 million. This article was published on Morning Star News Trans Athlete Sues Princeton, Uncovered Emails From Biden Admin., Forrest Frank Fractures Back link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:59 06:59 Top headlines for Wednesday, July 23, 2025 In this episode, we explore the ongoing controversy at Princeton University, where a trans-identifying athlete alleges discrimination after being removed from a track meet, raising important questions about inclusion in sports. Next, we discuss a major policy shift as a renowned children's hospital announces its decision to halt gender transition procedures for minors, sparking conversations around medical ethics and parental rights. Plus, we uncover new insights from recently unearthed emails that reveal the Biden administration's internal communications prior to a Justice Department memo controversially labeling concerned parents as terrorists. 00:11 Male sues Princeton after being removed from women's track meet 01:02 Israel Police find no damage to Christian church amid arson claim 01:49 Texas Democrat says 'test of Christianity' is 'do you love Judas' 02:47 Army apologizes for depicting pro-life orgs as terrorist groups 03:25 Children's National stops prescribing puberty blockers to kids 04:16 Biden WH communicated with DOJ before school board memo: report 05:16 Forrest Frank fractures back in skateboarding accident Home Opinion Obama, Russian collusion' and the real threat to democracy Ever since he first won the White House in 2016, Donald Trump has been smeared as a threat to democracy by left-wing elites, from the political class to media propagandists to professional agitators and activists. First, of course, there was the Russian collusion hoax. Then-President Barack Obama and his national security officers were joined by congressional Democrats and mainstream media outlets in claiming that Russian President Vladimir Putin illegally manipulated the 2016 presidential election results in order to secure a Trump victory. The theory was frequently flanked by vulgar and implausible claims that the Russians held sway over the then-president-elect by means of blackmail. The next four years almost the entirety of Trumps first term, in fact were plagued by claims of Russian collusion. Then-FBI Director James Comey spent months running sensationalist investigations into links between the Trump campaign and administration officials and Russia. Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) led congressional Democrats in initiating impeachment proceedings against Trump based on the Russian collusion claims. Men like retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Mike Flynn, Trumps pick for national security advisor, and foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos were targeted by Comey for entrapment. After Trump fired Comey, former FBI director and then-special counsel Robert Mueller launched an investigation into ties between Trump and Russia, a 22-month-long ordeal that ultimately found no evidence of collusion, conspiracy, or coordination between Trump and Russia, although Mueller alleged potential obstruction of justice despite the absence of any underlying crime. The Russian collusion hoax hamstringed Trumps first presidency, forcing the president and his deputies such as Attorneys General Jeff Sessions and William Barr and White House Counsel Don McGahn to parry a barrage of subpoenas issued by the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives and waste time, energy, and resources responding to baseless allegations of Russian collusion instead of, you know, running the country. One of the most damning aspects of the affair, however, was erroneously establishing as fact for at least a portion of the American public the allegation that Trump was likely corrupt, even though no one could prove it. In 2019, the Democrat-controlled House, run by then-Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), capitalized on the presumption of corruption and filed articles of impeachment against Trump, charging the president with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Once again, the claim was rooted in the notion that Trump was somehow illegally manipulating American democracy. This time, however, the narrative hinged on Ukraine, not Russia, although the latter did make an appearance. According to congressional Democrats, Trump had tried to bully Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky into announcing an investigation into Hunter Biden, the son of Trumps 2020 opponent Joe Biden, by denying military aid to Ukraine. The term quid pro quo will immediately spring to mind for those who followed the impeachment proceedings at the time. Allegedly, Trump withheld a $400 million aid package intended for Ukraine, later releasing it on (again, allegedly) the condition that Zelensky publicly investigate the Bidens for corruption linked to Hunter Bidens involvement with Ukraine-based energy company Burisma. According to then-acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, however, Trumps decision to withhold the aid package was based on the countrys refusal to cooperate with a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation into Ukraine for interfering in the 2016 election and subsequently framing Russia. Although Trump was acquitted by the Republican-held Senate in early 2020, another impeachment quickly followed. On January 13, 2021, just one week before his first term expired, the House once again voted to impeach Trump, this time alleging that he had intentionally incited an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6 in an effort to illegally overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The decision to continue with the impeachment process even after Trump (willingly and peacefully, by the way) left the White House was an obvious effort to bar the 45th president from ever returning. The next four years saw such efforts continue and accelerate. Citing the insurrection on January 6, Democrats moved to keep Trump off the ballot in multiple states, nearly succeeding in Colorado. While running for reelection, Biden claimed that the greatest threat Trump poses is to the democracy and that Donald Trump and his Maga Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy, constantly referring to Trump as an existential threat to democracy. Other Democrats repeated the phrase ad nauseam. Trump Is an Existential Threat To Our Democracy, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) claimed. Democracy is at stake this November, and if Donald Trump retakes power the survival of our democracy will be at risk. Even after Trump was shot in the side of the head at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Democrats continued labeling Trump a threat to democracy. In the parlance of children, accusations Youre a scaredy cat, Youre a loser, Youre a slow-poke may be met with the defense, No Im not, you are! While such arguments dont hold up in American courts of law, Democrats have nevertheless seemingly adopted the tactic. While whining for roughly a decade about Trump posing an existential threat to democracy, Democrats have been actively undermining and subverting the very democracy they claim to cherish. Trumps Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard released a report last week revealing that the Russian collusion hoax was actually engineered and orchestrated by Obama and his intelligence agency officials, including then-DNI James Clapper, Comey, CIA Director John Brennan, Secretary of State John Kerry, National Security Advisor Susan Rice, and others. After months of intelligence concluding that Russia had neither the means nor the motivation to interfere in the 2016 presidential election beyond online propaganda campaigns and possibly leaking information damaging to either campaign, the Obama administration buried its prior intelligence reports and began fabricating new intelligence to leak to the press. In other words, when the American people elected Trump as president, Obama and his intelligence cabal conspired to negate the votes of nearly 63 million Americans. Nor was that the last time that Democrats attempted to stifle the will of the American people. Given that the Russian collusion hoax was nothing more than a hoax, subsequent Democrat-led efforts to hamper the first Trump administration and remove the president on the basis of falsified Russian collusion were themselves attempts to subvert and even reverse American democracy. In the lead-up to the 2020 election, unelected, Democrat-appointed bureaucrats and career agency officials aggressively censored Americans and even suppressed legitimate news stories in an effort to defeat Trump and install Biden in the White House. Democrats funded months of lawsuits and indictments against Trump on (no pun intended, its unfortunately unavoidable) trumped-up charges, resulting in a felony conviction against a former president and presidential candidate. Democrat-appointed prosecutors even publicized unsubstantiated allegations against Trump just a month before the 2024 election. As soon as Trump won in November, Democrats promptly dropped the prosecutions, implicitly admitting that the investigations against the 45th and 47th president were nothing more than a witch hunt for the sake of theatrics and political manipulation. When it became obvious in 2024 that Bidens age and cognitive decline would more than likely preclude him from running against Trump again, Democrats engineered a coup against the man who had dominated Democratic primaries and forced him to suspend his campaign. Instead of allowing Democrat voters or even Democratic National Convention delegates to choose their presidential nominee, party elites installed then-Vice President Kamala Harris without her ever even having won a primary. As if none of that were bad enough, investigations are now returning evidence suggesting that Biden may not have even been running the country while in the White House. Republicans are currently probing the Biden administrations frequent use of autopen technology to determine whether the then-president was aware of orders being issued in his name or if a collection of unelected Democratic Party elites cabinet secretaries, advisors, aides, staffers, and Biden family members were taking advantage of Bidens cognitive decline to covertly run the White House without his knowledge. It turns out that the political party obsessed with talking about the subversion, manipulation, and corruption of Americas democratic republic has been actively subverting, manipulating, and corrupting Americas democratic republic. While it is undoubtedly a positive development that this appallingly deceptive conduct is now coming to light, the crisis is one of not just transparency and accountability which are sorely needed in the U.S. government today but of virtue. Too many of those with their fingers on the levers of power in Americas institutions are quite simply lacking in virtue and integrity. Those who are willing to deceive the American public on a mass scale, fabricate pseudo-geopolitical crises, target and dehumanize entire swaths of the American people, and ruthlessly prosecute political opponents on the most dishonest of claims have clearly abandoned both virtue and integrity in the mad, starving search for power. For some, this power is both a means and end in itself, something to be used to accumulate more power, or to hold onto what power one has already hoarded. For others, power is simply a means to an end. While this approach is not in itself evil, it becomes both evil and exceedingly dangerous when it is uncoupled from both virtue and integrity. Originally published at The Washington Stand. Home News Columbia University punishes anti-Israel students over library takeover, encampments Columbia University cracked down on dozens of students who participated in the anti-Israel encampment and a recent takeover of a campus library, where protesters injured at least two public safety officers and vandalized the building. Sources familiar with the matter told The Christian Post that over 70 students of the New York City-based institution are facing consequences, with about 80% of them receiving suspensions, expulsions or degree revocations. Most of those suspended received two-year suspensions. The disciplinary measures are related to the Butler Library disruption on May 7 and an anti-Israel encampment organized in protest of Israel's military offensive in Gaza following the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Columbia University confirmed in a Tuesday statement that the University Judicial Board had issued sanctions following an investigation by professors and administrators on the panel. Those who received the steepest punishments were "given multiple opportunities to leave Butler Library during the disruption and refused," the source added. The university could not release the disciplinary results of individual students, but it disclosed that sanctions from Butler Library include probation, suspension, degree revocation and expulsion. Suspensions from the university range from one year to three years, according to the statement. "Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community. And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institution's fundamental work, policies, and rules," Columbia University said in its Tuesday statement. "Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences," the university continued. "The speed with which our updated UJB system has offered an equitable resolution to the community and students involved is a testament to the hard work of this institution to improve its processes." The disciplinary crackdown comes several months after President Donald Trump's administration cut hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants to the university. Following these cuts, the university announced that it had taken steps to better address Jewish hatred, such as including the definition of antisemitism into its anti-discrimination policies. The anti-Israel encampments at Columbia University garnered media attention last year as reports surfaced of protesters harassing Jewish students. Last April, Rabbi Elie Buechler, director of the campus' Orthodox Union-Jewish Learning Initiative, even advised Jewish students to return home until the campus environment improved. In April 2024, demonstrators broke into and took over Hamilton Hall. They broke windows and barricaded themselves in to prevent authorities from entering. On May 7, dozens of anti-Israel protesters stormed the Butler Library, resulting in the detainment of at least 80 people. Acting Columbia President Claire Shipman said in a statement at the time that the university had no choice but to request help from the New York Police Department to quell the situation. "Sadly, during the course of this disruption, two of our Columbia Public Safety Officers sustained injuries during a crowd surge when individuals attempted to force their way into the building and into Room 301," Shipman stated. "These actions are outrageous." According to footage of the protest shared on social media, multiple keffiyeh-clad demonstrators yelled chants and pounded on drums in the campus library. Another video shared online shows an anti-Israel protester wearing a keffiyeh spray-painting "Learn From Palestine" on the library shelves. Home News IDF: Gaza Church hit was caused by unintentional deviation of mortar grenade Six days after three Gazans were killed by an explosion in the Holy Family Church in Gaza City on Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces published a statement summarizing its investigation of the incident on Wednesday. The military clarified that an Israeli mortar grenade not a tank shell, as had been previously reported was the cause of the deadly impact. The inquiry revealed that during operational activity by IDF troops in the area of Gaza City, the church was accidentally hit due to an unintentional deviation of munitions, the IDF said. Footage from the church showed that the munition had hit the edge of the church facade, lightly damaging it. Videos shot inside the building after the incident, during the visit of Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, Patriarch of Jerusalem, showed that the interior had apparently not been damaged. Several hundred people, mostly Christians, have sheltered in the compound for the duration of the war. During the operation, adjustments were made to improve the accuracy of fire, and following the incident, guidelines for opening fire near religious buildings, shelters, and other sensitive sites were further clarified, the IDF added. The military also noted that after the incident, it coordinated the entry of a delegation of the Greek and Latin Patriarchs, accompanied by a group of Christian clergy, to visit the church. In addition, the IDF and the Latin Patriarchate coordinated a special shipment of food, medical equipment, and medication to the Holy Family Church, as well as the evacuation of the injured for further medical treatment. Concluding its statement, the IDF reiterated it directs its military strikes solely at military targets and works to mitigate harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure as much as possible, including religious institutions. The IDF regrets any harm caused to civilians. On Tuesday, Pizzaballa and the Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III gave a press conference after returning to Jerusalem with broken hearts, according to Pizzaballa. The cardinal is seen as having relatively good relations with Israel, especially in comparison with the leaders of the Greek Orthodox Church. Nevertheless, he denounced Israels actions in Gaza with unusual sharpness. We have seen it: Men holding out in the sun for hours in the hope of a simple meal. This is a humiliation that is hard to bear when you see it with your own eyes. It is morally unacceptable and unjustifiable, he said. Israel had expressed deep regret over the strike that hit the Catholic Holy Family Church. Despite the public apologies, relations between Israel and the Vatican hit a new low as the church issued a harshly worded statement against Israel on Monday. Humanitarian aid is not only necessary it is a matter of life and death. Refusing it is not a delay, but a sentence. Every hour without food, water, medicine and shelter causes deep harm," the cardinal continued. Christ is not absent from Gaza. He is there crucified in the wounded, buried under rubble and yet present in every act of mercy, every candle in the darkness, every hand extended to the suffering, the cardinal noted. Pizzaballa called to end this nonsense, end the war and put the common good of people as the top priority. This article was originally published by All Israel News. Home News Judge partially blocks Big Beautiful Bill provision defunding Planned Parenthood A federal judge has ruled that some Planned Parenthood clinics can continue to receive federal funding while litigation about a provision in the recently passed Big Beautiful Bill Act defunding the abortion provider continues. In an opinion released Monday, Judge Indira Talwani of the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts partially blocked a provision of The Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law by President Donald Trump earlier this month that puts a one-year pause on giving federal funding to Planned Parenthood. Talwanis ruling comes in response to a lawsuit filed earlier this month by the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Association of Utah. Talwani ruled that the Trump administration must continue to ensure that the Planned Parenthood affiliates in Massachusetts and Utah, as well as any Planned Parenthood Federation of America Members who will not provide abortion services as of October 1, 2025 or who spent less than $800,000 in Medicaid funds in fiscal year 2023, continue to receive Medicaid funding. The Big Beautiful Bill Act does not explicitly ban Planned Parenthood from receiving federal funding. It instead prohibits the distribution of funds under the Social Security Act to prohibited identities. As Talwani explained in her opinion, the definition of prohibited entities includes organizations that perform abortions or receive more than $800,000 in Medicaid funds per year. Talwanis ruling only applies to Planned Parenthood clinics that do not fit into this category, rather than seeking to ensure that all Planned Parenthood clinics receive federal funding. Mondays decision follows a ruling issued by Talwani two weeks ago, which placed a two-week ban on the relevant portion of the Big Beautiful Bill Act from going into effect nationwide. Stakeholders on both sides of the abortion debate have issued statements weighing in on Talwanis decision. Although Planned Parenthood praised Talwani, appointed to the bench by former President Barack Obama, for granting its organization some relief, it maintains that more work needs to be done. In a joint statement published Monday, the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Association of Utah insisted that This isnt over. While the statement expressed gratitude that the court recognized the harm caused by this law, it noted disappointment that not all members were granted the necessary relief today. Patients across the country should be able to go to their trusted Planned Parenthood provider for birth control [...] and STI testing and treatment. This is about patients and their right to get care no matter their insurance. The court has not yet ruled on whether it will grant preliminary injunctive relief to other members. We remain hopeful that the court will grant this relief. There will be nothing short of a public health crisis if Planned Parenthood members are allowed to be defunded, the statement continued. In a statement released Monday, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser reacted to Talwanis decision by lamenting that an activist judge just prolonged the forced taxpayer funding of Big Abortion in what she characterized as a desperate attempt to run out the clock, and a shameful abuse of our tax dollars. Every day her decision remains in effect, millions are funneled into a business that profits from ending unborn lives and putting women at risk," Dannenfelser warned. Talwanis ruling comes less than a month after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Medina v. Planned Parenthood that states can exclude abortion providers from Medicaid funding. Home News Pastor wields sword on stage, reacts to Stephen Colbert cancellation: 'God can do anything' A Tennessee pastor brandished a large sword during his Sunday sermon and suggested that the recent cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" was the result of divine intervention. In a message titled, "Urgent Word to the Church," Pastor Kent Christmas of Regeneration Nashville addressed what he called "strongholds in politics" while holding a sword on stage. "I declare by the word of the Lord that God over this nation God can do anything he wants to. Stephen Colbert, bye-bye," he said. Brandishing a large sword on stage during his sermon this past Sunday, pastor Kent Christmas suggested that God was behind the cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (@colbertlateshow): "God can do anything he wants to. Stephen Colbert, bye bye." h/t @RightWingWatchpic.twitter.com/N0yMtKmykd Christian Nightmares (@ChristnNitemare) July 22, 2025 It's not clear why the pastor specifically mentioned Colbert in referencing "strongholds" in America. CP reached out for comment Wednesday and will provide an update if a response is received. Christmas' sermon came days after CBS' cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" was announced earlier this month. The show, which has been a staple of late-night television since 2015, was set to continue until May 2026 before being abruptly ended. The timing of the cancellation, just days after Colbert criticized CBS parent company Paramount Global for settling a defamation lawsuit with President Donald Trump, has fueled speculation about the motives behind the decision. Colbert had referred to the settlement as a "big fat bribe," a comment that some believe may have contributed to the network's decision. Christmas, who has been in full-time ministry for over 50 years, has over 3,000 members at his church and an online presence that reaches over 200,000 viewers weekly across nearly 100 nations, according to his website. However, some of Christmas' past statements have been controversial. He erroneously prophesied that President Donald Trump would win the 2020 election despite Trump's loss to former President Joe Biden. In 2021, he also suggested that a "demonic spirit" was causing more children to identify as LGBT. While identifying as a Roman Catholic earlier in his career, Colbert recently said a female portrayal of Jesus is "long overdue" during an interview with the bisexual actress set to star as Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar" at the Hollywood Bowl this summer. "One of my favorite musicals of all time is 'Jesus Christ Superstar,'" Colbert said during an interview last week with Cynthia Erivo, a British bisexual black actress who is deliberately bald. "I love that and I'm so excited that in August, you're going to be playing Jesus in 'Jesus Christ Superstar' at the Hollywood Bowl." "First woman to play Jesus in a major production. Long overdue. I've said for years I'd love to see a woman in that part," said Colbert, who asked what that milestone means to Erivo, who prefers "they/them" pronouns. Home News Queen's chaplain laments apostasy in Anglicanism: 'Nothing at the center' The former chaplain to the late Queen Elizabeth II lamented what he described as the apostasy within the Church of England and noted that Anglicanism in the United Kingdom is swiftly dying. "It will become hollowed out with nothing at the center, and because they have 6 billion pounds investments and our buildings, they will keep a show going in the more dramatic places," Gavin Ashenden, who left Anglicanism in 2019 to join the Roman Catholic Church after serving as the queen's chaplain from 2008 to 2017, told EWTN. During the interview that marked the celebration of the Catholic Mass earlier this month in Canterbury Cathedral, which was once the seat of the English Reformation, Ashenden laid out the sobering demographics that he believes show the Church of England has withered in its own country. "So they'll do coronations and royal funerals, and they'll keep the cathedrals ticking over, though they don't look after them very well. But the life of the parish churches is very close to being defunct already. I mean, I think the average age in Anglican parishes is over 70, and there is no great renewal in the youth, so demographically, it's simply going to evaporate." "I didnt leave the Anglican Church it left me." My full interview with Dr. Gavin Ashenden, former Anglican bishop and chaplain to Queen Elizabeth II, who resigned and became Catholic. @EWTNewspic.twitter.com/WrrZkSUhC3 Colm Flynn (@colmflynnire) July 21, 2025 Ashenden resigned his role as the queen's chaplain in 2017 after protesting that St. Mary's Cathedral, Glasgow, marked the feast of the Epiphany that year by reciting verses from the Quran that denied the divinity of Christ. He said at the time that he spoke out because he felt a duty to defend Christianity, according to The Telegraph. Speaking with EWTN, Ashenden explained how it cost him personally to follow his conscience by converting to Catholicism, noting it "was easy and difficult at the same time." He said it followed years of gradual and painful realization that his Anglican friends were drifting in a liberal direction he could not follow. "One of the things [that] happened over the previous 10 years was I'd become increasingly Catholic ethically, philosophically, spiritually," he said. "And my Anglican friends had gone in a totally different [direction], so there was this gap widening between us all the time." Ashenden said he tried to explain to liberal Anglicans he knew that they were losing the heart of the Christian faith and endangering their own church and culture. "I would say, 'Look, you're going in the wrong direction.' And as I became more Catholic more educated, I think, in sort of the theological Catholic mindset I became more articulate," he said, adding that he ultimately confronted his Anglican friends by telling them they were "selling out." "You're changing the nature of faith itself," he told them. "And what's more, these are the things that lie down the road. You mustn't go in that direction." Ashenden said that when he increasingly expressed his concerns with the Church of England publicly, he received a call from the Lord Chamberlain of the Household, who serves as the most senior officer of the Royal Household of the U.K. "The general public are under the impression that when you speak, you speak on behalf of the queen, and the difficulty I have is that you might be," he quoted the Lord Chamberlain as saying. "And the other problem is the general public have the impression that the queen is influenced by your views, and the reason that's a problem is she might be." Ashenden realized that the conversation was effectively an ultimatum: either to stop criticizing the Church of England or to resign. He said his resignation and ultimate conversion to Catholicism shut him out of the palatial parties and society he once enjoyed. Ashenden, who also serves as an associate editor at the Catholic Herald, has been outspoken about his faith journey, which he told Fox News in 2022 has been laden with personal suffering and touched by the supernatural. Ashenden told the outlet that he once had a "very strange, mystical encounter" during midnight prayers at a monastery in the 1990s that allowed him to briefly share in the agony of Jesus. In an episode he said "has never happened before nor since," Ashenden said he was crying out to God regarding his own suffering when he saw a vision of Jesus on the cross. After being offered an experiential window into the physical and mental anguish of crucifixion for less than 10 seconds, Ashenden begged God to remove him from the supernatural experience, which he said "recalibrated" his perspective on his own trials. "Once you've discovered God really does love you, and He loves you to the point where He's willing to get hurt more than you could ever imagine being hurt yourself, it gives a value to your life that you never lose," he said. "I could never look at Jesus on the cross again without thinking of what He went through in order to find me, to forgive me, to give me hope, to give me a purpose and to inspire me to stand alongside other people who are also in the dark and got stuck." The Church of England has been hemorrhaging members and trust among those in the U.K., according to a YouGov poll released earlier this year following recent abuse scandals. The same poll also showed that 50% of Britons favor the disestablishment of the Church of England, while only 23% prefer to maintain its status. The office of archbishop of Canterbury has remained vacant since January, when the Rt. Rev. Justin Welby stepped down after an inquiry reported that he failed to promptly alert police about serial abuse by a volunteer at Christian summer camps. In 2023, conservative Anglican leaders in the Global South Fellowship of Anglican Churches (GSFA) repudiated Welby's leadership in a scathing letter after the Church of England voted to offer blessings for same-sex couples that year. Home News Union Seminary's first woman president who faced backlash over resurrection comments set to retire The first woman to serve as president of Union Theological Seminary will retire next year, after 18 years of leading the New York-based theologically progressive academic institution. The Rev. Serene Jones will step down at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, according to an announcement on Monday from the seminary, with the outgoing president expecting to return as a faculty member following a sabbatical. President Jones legacy at Union is extraordinary, said Cliff Hudson, chair of Unions Board of Trustees, as quoted in the announcement. She led with heart, vision, and unrelenting purpose guiding Union through a period of remarkable growth, renewal, and impact. She has provided tremendous and courageous leadership during one of the most challenging periods in the history of higher education in this country. The Board is deeply proud of the way she rose to this moment with moral clarity, courage, and conviction. The UTS Board of Trustees said they will launch a national search for the next president, with the search committee led by Board Vice Chair Rhonda Joy McLean, according to the seminary. I deeply love this community. It has challenged and inspired me in ways that have allowed me to grow and evolve alongside the institution, stated Jones, as quoted in the announcement. In times such as these, it is absolutely critical that Union continues this vibrant global witness against the many forces of destruction that plague our earth while also being generatively supportive of the many beautiful voices that are standing up for truth, love, and justice. A non-denominational seminary founded in 1836, Union selected Jones to be its first female president in 2008, succeeding Joseph C. Hough Jr. and taking office on July 1 of that year. Jones earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oklahoma in 1981, a Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School in 1985, and a Doctorate in Theology from Yale University in 1991. Additionally, Jones was ordained a minister in two Mainline Protestant denominations, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. During her time as president of Union, Jones occasionally advocated for progressive causes. For example, in 2021, she denounced Texas heartbeat abortion ban as un-Christian. As a Christian, a biblical scholar, and a mother, it is infuriating that lawmakers would twist and distort our sacred text to give the government the power to force women to carry a child to term, she wrote for Salon at the time. In April 2019, Jones garnered backlash when, in an interview with The New York Times, she appeared to reject fundamentals of the Christian faith, including the bodily resurrection and virgin birth of Jesus. For Christians for whom the physical resurrection becomes a sort of obsession, that seems to me to be a pretty wobbly faith, she said. What if tomorrow someone found the body of Jesus still in the tomb? Would that then mean that Christianity was a lie? No, faith is stronger than that. One critique of Jones' comments, posted to the blog A Well-Designed Faith, asked how exactly love is stronger than death unless death is not the end? Im afraid she has missed the significance of the Resurrection. If Jesus did what no other person in all of human history has done or could do, and lived after death, never to die again, that is a jaw-droppingly awesome claim, the rebuttal noted. And the claim isnt merely that Jesus wasnt there three days later; He walked and talked and ate meals with people. The Resurrection isnt about a missing body, but rather a present Lord. In response to the feedback, Jones released a statement apologizing for sounding dismissive of those who hold other views and wishing that she could have expanded and nuanced my responses. Jones went on to say that she considered the virgin birth story of Jesus and the bodily resurrection of Jesus as deeply important Christian claims that were near and dear to my own heart and my own profession of faith. In the world of cybersecurity, were facing a dangerous paradox. Organisations are investing more in sophisticated defense tools than ever before, yet the attack surface is expanding at an uncontrollable rate, leaving them perpetually on the back foot. The accelerated push to digital transformation, cloud adoption, and remote work has created a sprawling, fragmented, and often incomplete landscape of assets. The real threat today isnt always the sophisticated zero-day exploit, its the unpatched server you forgot about, the orphaned cloud instance spun up for a test project, or the former employees account that still has privileged access. Lets be clear; this isnt a new problem. But its scale is something else entirely, resulting in what can only be described as asset anarchy. For years, security and IT teams have struggled with a fundamental question: What do we actually have? The traditional answer from cybersecurity teams, a Configuration Management Database (CMDB) or a series of spreadsheets, is dangerously obsolete. These are static snapshots based on limited integrations in a dynamic world, rendering them inaccurate the moment theyre completed. This visibility gap creates very tangible and real-world risks. As Kang Yeong Wong, vice president of sales for Asia Pacific at Axonius, notes, Inactive employee accounts with excess privilege, for instance, may still be hidden within the network. Shadow IT and unmanaged devices can serve as access points for a cyber attack. This isnt just about security. Wong adds that these invisible assets can impair an enterprises ability to make informed decisions while incurring additional costs from inefficient processes and idle assets. The data backs this up. According to Foundrys 2023 Security Priorities Study, 75% of security decision-makers say their tech stack is becoming more complex, and a third of organizations are unaware of the root cause behind their data security incidents. This gets to the very core of the issue. Teams arent just busy; theyre drowning in data from dozens of siloed tools. Endpoint security, vulnerability scanners, cloud posture management each of these security tools provides a different, incomplete piece of the puzzle. Without a unified view, there is no single source of truth. So where does that leave us? If the old methods are broken and the data is overwhelming, how can any organization hope to get ahead? From Disjointed Data to Intelligent Action The challenge has evolved beyond simple asset discovery. Finding assets is one thing; understanding their context, relationships, and security posture in a way that drives intelligent action is another entirely. This is where things must shift from basic asset management to what Axonius calls asset intelligence. The goal is to create a complete, accurate, and always up-to-date asset data model, as outlined by Wong. That means this isnt just another inventory. Its a living, breathing map of your entire technology footprint. Axonius tackles this through its Axonius Asset Cloud. The platforms foundation is a massive library of integrations, the Adapter Network, that connects bi-directionally to hundreds of systems, ranging from security and IT tools to cloud providers and identity solutions. By aggregating and correlating data from all these sources, the platform aims to solve the silo problem. It can identify a device from an endpoint agent, cross-reference it with vulnerability data from a scanner, check its user permissions in Active Directory, and see its network traffic through a firewall log, all in one place. This unified model provides the context needed to move from visibility to what the company terms actionability. Actionability means having the insight to prioritize what matters, like a critical vulnerability on a public-facing server belonging to a business critical project team, and the tools to remediate it directly. The platform is designed to address a range of critical use cases across an organization: Cyber and Software Assets: Moving beyond static lists to provide continuous visibility into devices and software, uncovering coverage gaps, and managing the full lifecycle. Moving beyond static lists to provide continuous visibility into devices and software, uncovering coverage gaps, and managing the full lifecycle. SaaS Applications: Tackling shadow IT by discovering all SaaS applications in use, monitoring for misconfigurations and optimizing license costs. Tackling shadow IT by discovering all SaaS applications in use, monitoring for misconfigurations and optimizing license costs. Identities: Unifying identity management and security to strengthen hygiene, manage entitlements, and governing the entire account lifecycle, from onboarding to deprovisioning. Unifying identity management and security to strengthen hygiene, manage entitlements, and governing the entire account lifecycle, from onboarding to deprovisioning. Exposures: Consolidating findings from various security tools to correlate and prioritize risks, enabling teams to focus mitigation efforts where they will have the most impact. A Case Study in Clarity The practical application of this approach can be seen in their work across Southeast Asia. Wong shared the example of a leading Indonesian bank that was struggling with a sprawling IT environment across hundreds of branches. The bank realised it had limited visibility into its IT assets, he explained. This lack of a unified view created uncertainty around endpoint security, and audits revealed servers being installed by individual branches without central oversight. It was a classic case of asset anarchy. By deploying Axonius, the bank was able to establish a comprehensive and credible asset inventory. Were proud to have been instrumental in the banks asset management program to ensure compliance with security frameworks and controls, Wong stated. The result was not just a tick-box for compliance with Indonesias security framework, but a tangible improvement in security maturity and hygiene. Ultimately, the cybersecurity landscape demands a foundational shift. Responding to threats is no longer enough. Organizations must preemptively understand and manage their entire attack surface. In an era where every device, every user, and every application is a potential vector, knowing what you have isnt just an IT task. Its the bedrock of your entire corporate strategy. To see the platform in action and how it can transform your asset management, visit the Axonius website today. Axonius Kang Yeong Wong CISA CISSP VP of Sales, APAC Wong Kang Yeong is the Vice President of Sales for the Asia-Pacific region. He brings more than 20 years of experience in cybersecurity to Axonius. Wong has extensive knowledge in cybersecurity, serving in a range of diverse roles from consulting, auditing, and solution design to presales and sales. He has a successful track record guiding customers in their cybersecurity transformation journey, and has used his knowledge to help organizations enhance their cybersecurity architecture, operations, and capabilities. Prior to Axonius, Wong held leadership roles at VMware, Carbon Black, Dell Software, and SonicWALL. He has a B.ENG (Hons) in Computer Engineering from University of Sheffield, United Kingdom. Nigel Huddleston has been appointed shadow culture secretary, replacing fellow former civil society minister Stuart Andrew, as part of Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenochs frontbench reshuffle. Andrew had served as Badenochs first shadow culture secretary since last years general election but will now take on the health brief from Edward Argar, who is stepping down due to a health scare according to the Melton Times . Huddleston, who had been co-chairman of the Conservatives since November 2024, said on social media he was delighted to become shadow culture secretary, having been civil society minister from February 2020 until September 2022. I am passionate about all DCMS sectors and am honoured to have been asked by Kemi to take on this new challenge, he posted. Andrew, who succeeded Huddleston as civil society minister from 2022 until the general election, said on social media he was honoured to take on the health brief. Our NHS and social care services are vital to millions, and I will work tirelessly to hold the government to account and stand up for patients, staff and families across the country, he said. I am also very grateful to my predecessor for his dedicated service in this role, and wish him all the very best for a full and speedy recovery. Meanwhile, Louie French remains shadow minister for civil society. In March, French and Andrew pledged to rekindle the Conservative Partys relationship with the charity sector. Then in April, Andrew criticised the governments cruel decision to increase national insurance contributions (NICs) for charities. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, nicoletaionescu / Adobe Stock A national coalition of enforcement and regulatory bodies, convened by the Fundraising Regulator, has today called on the government to reform what it describes as outdated legislation to tackle a rise in unlicensed street fundraising. The Charity Commission, Local Government Association, Metropolitan Police and City of London Corporation were among those who co-signed a letter to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) calling for tougher sanctions to deter rogue operators. In its letter, the group argued that the Police, Factories, & c. (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1916 is not fit for purpose in dealing with aggressive or misleading street fundraising and lacks the enforcement powers needed to stop unlawful activity effectively. The coalition proposed removing a 200 cap on fines, with the option of a custodial sentence, and the introduction of fixed penalty notices to allow local authorities to take swift enforcement action without costly court proceedings. It also called for the government to extend the law to cover offences by company directors to prevent individuals from avoiding penalties by dissolving and reforming organisations. Enforcement system urgently needs reform The coalition cited several recent cases of unlicensed street fundraising by community interest companies (CICs) to highlight the need for modernisation of the current legislation. One such case was that of the Inside Success Union , which was prosecuted for unlicensed street collections and received a fine, yet continued to operate, the coalition said. Despite Inside Success Union reporting an annual income in excess of 3m, the court was only able to issue a fine of 665, which the coalition suggested was highlighting the lack of deterrent. Another case mentioned by the coalition was fellow CIC We R Blighty, whose directors were fined recently after pleading guilty to multiple offences of collecting money without the required licences. Jim Tebbett, head of proactive regulation at the Fundraising Regulator, said: Unlicensed fundraisers are on the rise, and the enforcement system urgently needs reform. Repeated rule-breaking, particularly by a small number of CICs, is eroding confidence in street fundraising, harming legitimate charities that follow the rules, and putting public generosity at risk. We are calling on the government to make straightforward legislative changes to keep our streets safe, ensure donations go where donors intend, and uphold trust in charitable giving. Meanwhile, the CIC Regulator today published its annual report , which says that it opened no formal investigations in 2024-25. 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, Keir Starmer has said the government is considering how it can support charities facing financial challenges, including potential changes to business rates. However, the prime minister once again ruled out an outright exemption for charities from a recently introduced rise in employer national insurance contributions (NICs), estimated to cost the sector 1.4bn a year. Starmer was speaking at a Liaison Committee hearing on Monday , in which the culture select committee chair Caroline Dinenage asked what his government would do to support charities facing increased overheads and demand for their services as well as declining donations. In response, Starmer said: It is important. I think over half of charities have been exempted from the national insurance rises. We are looking at what we can do on business rates etc for charities and to put in the support that they need. Currently, charities are granted a mandatory 80% relief from business rates on properties mainly used for charitable purposes. Starmer did not say what further support the government was considering. Civil Society has asked the Treasury for clarification. No blanket carve-out for charities Dinenage suggested it was time for blanket carve-out for charities from the NICs rise, introduced in April this year, to which Starmer responded: No, I dont think it is. Starmer said the Civil Society Covenant, published last week , was very well received and was an example, to my mind, of the sort of partnership working that we are going to have to have in this country if we are to bring about the change that we need to bring. When Dinenage accused Starmer of attempting to break our charities, he repeated Labours claim that the NICs rise was introduced due to a missing 22bn from the UKs public finances. We addressed that in the budget and at the same time we used the money from that NICs increase to invest hugely in our NHS, he added. We promised two million extra appointments in the first year of a Labour government. We have done 4.5 million. That takes the pressure off many, many charities. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Sign up for The Media Today, CJRs daily newsletter. Around half past six in the evening on Tuesday, after shed been out reporting, Shrouq Aila, a Palestinian journalist in Gaza, headed home. Im super exhausted because I havent had a meal, she said. She had last eaten the day beforeonly once, and it was just rice. She was fortunate to get hold of a few dates, she told me, but she left them for her two-year-old daughter, Dania. Aila said that Dania is growing up on paltry food, much of it without nutritional value, because she has spent more than half of her age in such dire circumstances. Those circumstances, for the past year and a half, have led to extreme levels of starvation in Gazawhere, according to the United Nations, the local health ministry has recorded more than a hundred Palestinian deaths from malnutrition, including fifteen within a recent twenty-four-hour period. Hundreds more have been killed while trying to get food, per the UN, and one in three is going days without eating. Journalists are among them. This week, the editorial committee of Agence France-Presse, an international news agency headquartered in Paris, released a statement warning of the consequences. Without immediate intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die, the message went. AFP staff journalists left last year, as members of the international press were banned from the territory. The organization has since worked with freelancers, including visual journalists, now the only ones left to report what is happening in the Gaza Strip. These reporters have survived air strikes, economic collapse, and lack of access to healthcare. (Since October 2023, according to the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs at Brown University, more than 230 journalists and media workers in Gaza have been killed.) We are watching their situation get worse, the statement continued. Theyre young but their strength is leaving them. Most are no longer physically able to get around the enclave to do their work. Their heartbreaking cries for help are now daily. Their most pressing needs are food and water. I have just gone out to look for anything edible for my family, though I doubt Ill find much, Abdulrahman Ismail, a young visual journalist in Gaza, told me on Tuesday evening. (Hed recently spent forty-eight hours without food, until he came across a little girl in the market selling half a piece of bread, which he bought for six dollars.) More than two hours later, he reported back: hed found nothing. He quoted a colleague: I used to chase the truth. Now I chase calories. Aila noted, too, that water, where she can find it, is often non-potable. There are many diseases, she said. I have stored water bottles at my home, and those are the only ones that I can drink. Otherwise, I will be facing diarrhea, colon problems, and so on. Ismail told me, Some of us drink salt water just to remain standing while we work. Others chew dried herbs or wild leaves to quiet the screaming inside. There are moments when my hands tremble too hard to hold a pen, when I cant focus my eyes on the camera lens in front of me. He added, The hunger scrambles everythingthought, memory, even language. AFPs call drove attention to the plight of journalists beyond its network. Journalists in Gaza have risked bombs, bullets, and now starvation to tell the stories those in power dont want told. Their courage is remarkable, Seth Stern, the director of advocacy of the Freedom of the Press Foundation, told me. Journalists and historians will find a way to tell the world the truth, and the scale of the atrocities will be undeniable. And no matter what else they do while in power, governments and presidents that supported these horrors, and tolerated the killing of journalists who reported on them, will be remembered first and foremost for their complicity. Anthony Bellanger, the general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, released a statement imploring the Israeli government to stop weaponising starvation against the people of Gaza and to allow foreign journalists to enter Gaza and facilitate the evacuations of local journalists in need. As these journalists face starvation, displacement, and constant threat of attack, the international community risks losing its last independent source of reporting from inside Gaza, Sara Qudah, the regional director for the Middle East and North Africa at the Committee to Protect Journalists, told me. Thats not just a loss of informationits a collapse in transparency, a blow to advocacy for civilians, and a dangerous opening for impunity. Silencing journalists under these conditions is not simply a media freedom issueits a crisis of global accountability. Sign up for CJRs daily email The lack of access to food, now an acute situation, has been in the making for months. Early this year, Abubaker Abed, a Palestinian journalist who had been reporting from Gaza, was diagnosed with malnutrition. I would always get so exhausted and fatigued, he said. In April, his deteriorating healthcombined with other threats to his physical safetyforced him to leave. He is now living in Ireland, keeping in touch with colleagues remotely. One of them, he noted, can hardly go outside, much less report the news: His main priority at the moment is to find food for his family, Abed said. Aila faces the same impossible choice. It was very hot today, she told metemperatures in Gaza have been above ninety degrees. I felt like Im about to lose my consciousness at any moment because of working in the sun without having had anything to eat or drink. If wind mitigation and stronger homes are the paths to reducing insurance claims and bringing down insurance premiums in hurricane-prone areas, as a growing number of industry experts believe, then homeowners, builders and insurers may want to take a look at some homes rising in the Florida Panhandle. Theyre not the pricey, igloo-shaped windproof homes found in some beach areas, but are designed to be affordable with gables and a roomy front porch like most conventional homes. The houses have been built with reinforced concrete walls, heavier roof decking, more fasteners per foot, impact-resistant windows and doors anchored directly to the concrete, as well as standing-seam metal roofs designed to withstand hurricane-force winds. And the construction work is frequently and thoroughly inspected, more than what municipal building departments and state mitigation plans can offer, builders and inspectors say. I wont say theyre hurricane-proof but hurricane-resistant, said Darius Grimes, president of Disaster-Smart, a firm that audits and inspects homes built to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safetys famously stout FORTIFIED building standard. At one of the homes nearing completion in Pensacola, the exterior walls are thicker than most wood-frame structure walls. The construction is sort of the reverse of the better-known technique called insulated concrete forms, or ICF, which uses polystyrene foam blocks as forms for poured concrete. The new system, made by ConcreWallUSA, now known as Fortified Structural Solutions and based nearby in Panama City, Florida, has a polystyrene core with steel remesh and sprayed-on concrete on both sides. The approach is so new that some insurance carriers are still scratching their heads on how to classify it. Every carrier I talked to said to go ahead and write it as a masonry structure, and we may have to figure something out later, said Suzanne Pollard Spann, CEO of Legacy Insurance Brokers in Pensacola. Spann has obtained quotes from Olympus Insurance and others. And, despite some unfamiliarity with the new wall system, carriers do appear willing to provide significant premium discounts for the property, she noted. The Spring Street home near downtown Pensacola is about 1,500 square feet and is valued at about $400,000. The average quoted annual premium is about $1,600, Spann said. Comparable-sized homes in the neighborhood, built with conventional wood framing and shingle roofs, have seen HO premiums as high as $7,000 a year, Spann said. Besides wind-resistance, the Concre wall system also offers excellent fire resistance, triggering further premium credits on homeowner policies, Grimes pointed out. The idea of building rock-solid homes at an affordable price in a place that has seen its share of hurricanes is largely the brainchild of the Home Builders Association of West Florida. Spann served on the board in 2023 when the project began. This is my pet project because of what it can mean for our industry, Spann said. The homes builder is Amir Fooladi, of ParsCo builders, who was president of the local HBA in 2023. Its one of the first homes in Florida to be built with the ConcreWall system. Fooladi, Spann and the HBA worked with city officials and with the non-profit Habitat for Humanity to launch the project and at least two others like it. So far, more than 40 local and national companies have donated funds, labor and/or materials for the site. Once completed and sold to a Habitat family, any profits will go back to the Home Builders Association. I feel like this can be a model for all home builders associations, Fooladi said. Part of the reason behind building the concrete homes is to get an idea of the costs and the challenges involved in constructing houses to a stronger standard, Grimes said. But Fooladi said it is difficult to guage the exact cost since so much material has been donated. According to estimates from the National Association of Home Builders, Reddit, and HomeGuide.com, concrete-walled structures can cost up to $250 per square foot to build about 50% more than conventional homes. The higher build cost will pay for itself in lower insurance premiums, reduced cooling expenses, and reduced repair costs, advocates say. Its not just the structural concrete that makes these types of houses so strong, Fooladi and Grimes explained. The building has to meet the IBHS FORTIFIED standards, which often require more wind-resistant material and building techniques than Floridas own vaunted building codes. While most building codes require roof-decking nails to be placed every 6 inches, the FORTIFIED certification requires nails every 4 inches, Grimes explained. But the biggest difference is that FORTIFIED-approved homes must be inspected more thoroughly and more often, then reinspected years later, he noted. Building codes are only as good as the local inspector, said Carl Schneider, a Gulf Coast insurance agent who is familiar with the Florida Panhandle and Alabama markets. FORTIFIED homes are way above the Florida building codes on that. He pointed to a recent study by the Alabama Department of Insurance and the University of Alabamas Center for Risk and Insurance Research that found that FORTIFIED-built homes fared significantly better in Hurriane Sally, which hit southern Alabama and northwest Florida in 2020. Insurance company payouts would have been about 75% less if all impacted homes in two coastal Alabama counties had been built to the standards, the study found. The FORTIFIED approach is spreading nationwide, and its about to become a little tougher for some contractors. Starting Nov. 1, all FORTIFIED-approved homes must be installed by FORTIFIED-certified roofing contractors, according to the IBHS. That means the contractor must complete IBHS training courses and follow a rigorous protocol when installing roofs and roof decking. Top photo: Darius Grimes at the house near downtown Pensacola. (Insurance Journal) Excessive litigation and abuse of the U.S. legal system are effectively imposing a tax on the U.S. economy and causing a surge in liability insurance costs, according to John Doyle, president and chief executive officer of Marsh McLennan. The U.S. already has the highest liability insurance rates in the world and escalating costs will only make it harder for companies to decide to invest and grow here, he said during an analysts call to discuss the companys second quarter results. And for those companies that do invest in the U.S., they will have to pass along these increased costs to consumers, he added. Doyle pointed to the fact that global casualty rates increased 4%, while U.S. excess casualty rates rose 18% in the second quarter. Over the past decade, he said, U.S. excess casualty insurance rates have increased by a cumulative 150%. Our tort system is intended to provide fair compensation to injured parties who have been wronged, but too often we see tort litigation backed by a vast and growing industry with outside investors, he said, referring to the growing litigation funding industry. The result in many cases is that aggrieved parties see less than half of the settlement awards, he said, noting that Marsh McLennans clients are feeling the effects of this growing problem. Doyle went on to discuss the rise of so-called nuclear verdicts. Cases exceeding $100 million have grown 400% over the past decade, he said, citing figures from the US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform. This trend is encouraging more lawsuits and blockbuster verdicts which drive up insurance costs, Doyle continued. In fact, in 2024, US liability insurance experienced the most severe adverse reserve development of any single line of coverage since the 2008 global financial crisis, which was more than double the amount from the previous year, Doyle said. During the question-and-answer session with the equity analysts, Doyle explained that his comments on the U.S. liability situation were in part driven by recent legislation in the form of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill, which President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4. Doyle noted that North Carolina Senator Thomas Tillis had proposed an amendment to the reconciliation bill that would have changed tax policy around litigation financing, but it failed to get included in the law. Doyle described the omission as a missed opportunity. Read more: Tax Increase on Litigation Funders Does Not Make Final Budget Bill Although an injured party, in many cases, gets less than 50% of the outcome of a settlement, that injured party pays ordinary U.S. income tax, while a litigation funder pays capital gains and a foreign investor pays zero tax, Doyle explained. Addressing these tort abuses will be challenging and take time. Were committed to working with the business community and policymakers to tackle this challenge. Related: Tesla on Monday settled a lawsuit against Louisiana and various auto dealerships and trade groups, in which CEO Elon Musks electric car company challenged the states ban since 2017 on direct vehicle sales to consumers. According to a dismissal motion filed in New Orleans federal court, Teslas claims have been fully and finally resolved, with state officials maintaining they were simply doing their jobs and did not violate criminal laws. Related: Tesla Settled Over Autopilot Crash With Truck Crossing Highway Tesla sued members of the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission, dealerships owned by individual commissioners, and the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association in August 2022. It accused motor vehicle commissioners associated with rival dealerships of exploiting their control of the commission by targeting its sales model, which does not use a network of franchised dealers, as an alleged existential threat. Three months ago, Microsoft Corp. issued a progress report on what it described as the largest cybersecurity engineering project in history. Battered by its role in several major hacks, the software giant in late 2023 vowed to overhaul its cybersecurity, in a project called the Secure Future Initiative. The April report noted significant advances, including fostering a security-first mindset in employees and making strides in meeting engineering goals. Our progress will not be linear, the report added. It didnt take long to prove the companys point. On Tuesday, Microsoft accused three Chinese hacking groups, two tied to the government in Beijing, of exploiting flaws in SharePoint document management software as part of a global campaign thats targeted businesses and government agencies, including the US Department of Education. Attackers have exploited the flaws since July 7, according to cybersecurity researchers. The full extent of the damage isnt yet clear. The flaws apply to SharePoint customers who manage the software on their own networks, as opposed to on the cloud. That limits potential victims though the number could still be significant given Microsofts reach. Roger Cressey, a former cybersecurity official under presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, said errors at organizations as dominant as Microsoft have high stakes and changes are hard to make given its size. When you have one provider so omnipresent in our digital ecosystem, the blast radius of their mistakes is enormous, said Cressey, a partner at Mountain Wave Ventures, whose clients include some Microsoft competitors. Its another reminder that Microsofts failure on making security a priority is impacting our national and economic security. Microsoft quickly rolled out patches for the flaws, though it said in a blog post Tuesday that it had high confidence that hackers would continue to use the flaws to attack unpatched SharePoint systems. Related: Microsoft Server Hack Hit About 100 Organizations, Researchers Say The intrusion is another public relations headache for a company trying to bolster its cyber defenses and reputation. Microsoft is the worlds largest software vendor, making it a target for cyber-spies and criminals. It is also the biggest seller of cybersecurity products. As part of the Secure Future Initiative, were focused on accelerating and strengthening our security incident response, said Microsoft spokesman Frank Shaw. In this case, we acted quickly, delivering detailed customer guidance and releasing three new security updates within 72 hours to help protect against adversary attacks. Theres little evidence that previous major cyberattacks tied to Microsoft have hurt the companys bottom line. Anurag Rana, a senior analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, said it could even help Microsoft by convincing customers to move SharePoint to the tech giants cloud, which he described as safer and cheaper in the long run. Whats less clear is what impact the latest breach will have on Microsofts efforts to repair its cybersecurity credentials and appease long-term critics. One of them, US Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, said government agencies have become dependent on a company that not only doesnt care about security but is making billions of dollars selling premium cybersecurity services to address the flaws in its products. Each hack caused by Microsofts negligence results in increased government spending on Microsoft cybersecurity services, Wyden said in a statement, when asked to respond to the SharePoint vulnerabilities. The government will never escape this cycle unless it stops rewarding Microsoft. In its April report, Microsoft described the Secure Future Initiative as an ambitious undertaking that would take years. For instance, out of 28 engineering objectives, five are nearing completion, 11 have made significant progress and Microsoft continues to work on the others. The threat landscape will continue to evolve, resulting in new vulnerabilities and security incidents, according to the report. Technology will advance, creating new ways to improve security and new issues to address. Each of these is an opportunity to work with our customers and the industry to strengthen our collective defenses. Top Photo: People walk past a Microsoft store in New York, US, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Microsoft Corp. accused Chinese state-sponsored hackers of using flaws in its SharePoint document management software in a hacking campaign that has targeted businesses and government agencies around the world. (Adam Gray/Bloomberg) Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. The number of companies and organizations compromised by a security vulnerability in Microsoft Corp.s SharePoint servers is increasing rapidly, with the tally of victims soaring more than six-fold in a few days, according to one research firm. Hackers have breached about 400 government agencies, corporations and other groups, according to estimates from Eye Security, the Dutch cybersecurity company that identified an early wave of the attacks last week. Thats up from roughly 60 based on its previous estimate provided to Bloomberg News on Tuesday. The security firm said that most of the victims are in the US, followed by Mauritius, Jordan, South Africa and the Netherlands. The National Nuclear Security Administration, the US agency responsible for maintaining and designing the nations cache of nuclear weapons, was among those breached, Bloomberg reported earlier. Related: SharePoint Hacks Turn Up Heat on Microsofts Cyber Overhaul The National Institutes of Health was also impacted through the SharePoint flaws, according to a person familiar with the matter. Andrew Nixon, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, said, The Department and its security teams are actively engaged in monitoring, identifying, and mitigating all risks to our IT systems posed by the Microsoft SharePoint vulnerability. At present, we have no indication that any information was breached as a result of this vulnerability, he said, adding that the department is collaborating with Microsoft and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. The Washington Post previously reported that NIH was breached. The hacks are among the latest major breaches that Microsoft has blamed, at least in part, on China and come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing over global security and trade. The U.S. has repeatedly criticized China for campaigns that have allegedly stolen government and corporate secrets over a period spanning decades. The real number of victims from the SharePoint exploits might be much higher as there can be many more hidden ways to compromise servers that do not leave traces, Eye Securitys co-owner Vaisha Bernard said in an email to Bloomberg News. This is still developing, and other opportunistic adversaries continue to exploit vulnerable servers. The organizations compromised in the SharePoint breaches include many working in government, education and technology services, Bernard said. There were smaller numbers of victims in countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. State-backed hackers tend to exploit major cybersecurity weaknesses, like the SharePoint vulnerability, in waves, according to Sveva Scenarelli, a threat analyst with Recorded Future Inc. They start with secretive, targeted hacks and then, once the vulnerability is discovered, will begin using it more indiscriminately, she said. Once access has been acquired, individual threat groups can then triage compromised organizations, and prioritize those of particular interest for follow-on activity, said Scenarelli, of the cyber intelligence firms Insikt Group. She said this can include finding ways to maintain access to a compromised network, burrowing deeper and setting up paths to steal sensitive information. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is set to meet his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week for a third round of trade talks, suggested in a Bloomberg Television interview Wednesday that the SharePoint hacks will be discussed. Obviously things like that will be on the agenda with my Chinese counterparts, he said. The security flaws allow hackers to access SharePoint servers and steal keys that can let them impersonate users or services, potentially enabling deep access into compromised networks to steal confidential data. Microsoft has issued patches to fix the vulnerabilities, but researchers cautioned that hackers may have already got a foothold into many servers. Microsoft on Tuesday accused Chinese state-sponsored hackers known as Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon of being behind the attacks. Another hacking group based in China, which Microsoft calls Storm-2603, also exploited them, according to the company. The Redmond, Washington company has repeatedly blamed China for major cyberattacks. In 2021, an alleged Chinese operation compromised tens of thousands of Microsoft Exchange servers. In 2023, another alleged Chinese attack on Microsoft Exchange compromised senior US officials email accounts. A US government review later accused Microsoft of a cascade of security failures over the 2023 incident. Eugenio Benincasa, a researcher at ETH Zurichs Center for Security Studies who specializes in analyzing Chinese cyberattacks, said members of the groups identified by Microsoft had previously been indicted in the US for their alleged involvement in hacking campaigns targeting US organizations. They are well known for their extensive espionage, he said. Its likely that the SharePoint breaches are being carried out by proxy groups that work with the government rather than Chinese government agencies directly carrying out the hacking, according to Benincasa. Private hacking companies in the country sometimes participate in hacker for hire operations, he added. Now that at least three groups have reportedly exploited the same vulnerability, its plausible more could follow, he said. Cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries and should be addressed jointly through dialogue and cooperation, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun. China opposes and fights hacking activities in accordance with the law. At the same time, we oppose smears and attacks against China under the excuse of cybersecurity issues. According to Microsoft, the hacking group Linen Typhoon was first identified in 2012, and is focused on stealing intellectual property, primarily targeting organizations related to government, defense, strategic planning, and human rights. Violet Typhoon, first observed in 2015, was dedicated to espionage and primarily targeted former government and military personnel, non-governmental organizations, as well as media and education sectors in the US, Europe, and East Asia. The hackers have also used the SharePoint flaws to break into systems belonging to the U.S. Education Department, Floridas Department of Revenue and the Rhodes Island General Assembly, Bloomberg previously reported. Edwin Lyman, director of nuclear power safety for the Union of Concerned Scientists, said that while the National Nuclear Security Administration possesses some of the most restricted and dangerous information in the world, the networks where classified information are stored are isolated from the internet. So even if those networks were compromised, Im not sure how such information could have been transmitted to the adversaries, Lyman said in an email. But there are other categories of information that are sensitive but unclassified, that may be treated with less care and might have been exposed. This includes some information related to nuclear materials and even nuclear weapons. Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Martin Selasco never expected the rhythms of his youth to become a vehicle for both personal identity and musical revolution. But with his project Terror/Cactus, the Argentine American producer is doing just thatspinning cumbia into something hypnotic, electronic, and wildly improvisational, all while staying rooted in Latinidad. Read more: Gilberto Gil Announces Retirement from the Stage After More Than 60 Years of Musical Legacy Terror/Cactus' latest release, a two-track single titled La Pantera and Descalzo, dropped this week via New York-based label Names You Can Trust. And this time, Selasco's sonic journey includes a new guest: acclaimed Seattle jazz reedist Kate Olson, who lends baritone sax and clarinet to his borderless sound. For Selasco, who was born in Buenos Aires and raised in Miami by a record-label-owning father, Latin music was never just background noiseit was the soundtrack of cultural belonging. "Cumbia is what brings me back home," he says. "Even if I'm living in the Pacific Northwest." Cumbia, originally a folkloric style from Colombia, has been reinvented over decades across Latin America. In Mexico, it's gritty and urban; in Peru, it's psychedelic; in Argentina, it flirts with pop and indie. Selasco absorbs them all and remixes them into something newa sound that speaks to the children of immigrants and the underground Latinx scenes thriving far from the mainstream spotlight. "Growing up between cultures, I felt like I didn't fully belong to any one place," he says. "But cumbiaits rhythm, its adaptabilityhas always felt like home. It's like a heartbeat that connects all of us." That heartbeat pulses through La Pantera, the A-side of the new single. A track that opens with swirling synths and minimalist percussion soon morphs into something both wild and elegant. Olson's baritone sax grumbles underneath the beat like a feline ready to pounceprecisely the vibe Selasco was aiming for. "She added these expressive growls and squeals that just brought the whole track to life," he says. On the B-side, Descalzo, Olson switches to clarinet, crafting a dreamy, noir atmosphere over eerie guitar lines. "It's like the score to a film that doesn't exist yet," Selasco says, laughing. "Something shadowy and Latin American, maybe something set in a jungle at night." Read more Jazz Royalty Returns to Miami: Adrienne Arsht Center Announces 2025-26 JAZZ ROOTS Series with Miles Davis Tribute, Sheila E. and More Jazz Royalty Returns to Miami: Adrienne Arsht Center Announces 2025-26 JAZZ ROOTS Series with Miles Davis Tribute, Sheila E. and More The release arrives as Terror/Cactus prepares for a standout performance at Washington's THING Festival on August 16a rare all-Latin music day where Selasco will share the stage with Mexican DJ and percussionist Pahua. "It's a dream to be part of a lineup that reflects the diversity of Latin music today," he says. "You'll hear everything from electronica to folk to reggaetonand yes, plenty of cumbia." Although many of Terror/Cactus's recordings are created soloSelasco often composes, records, mixes, and edits in his home studiohe thrives on collaboration. "Sometimes I start a track and immediately hear someone's voice or instrument in my head," he says. "Other times, we just jam and see what happens. That's how the best magic happens." His collaboration with Olson is a testament to that. While their musical backgrounds differshe's a mainstay in Seattle's jazz and experimental scenesboth artists share a love for risk-taking. "I love working with jazz musicians because they understand space and spontaneity," Selasco says. "They leave room for the unexpected." Up next for Terror/Cactus is a string of remixes from his acclaimed 2024 album Forastero. First up: Donde Estas Tu remixed by genre-bending Seattle artist Chong the Nomad, out July 18. "Remixing is part of our Latin tradition too," Selasco says. "We've always borrowed, sampled, reinvented. It's how we survive and thrive." As the U.S. Latin music scene grows more diversestretching beyond reggaeton and trap to include everything from alt-folklore to avant-garde cumbiaartists like Selasco are leading the charge from the margins. "People forget that Latin music is not one sound," he says. "It's hundreds of stories, of migrations, of ancestors dancing in the kitchen. This music helps us remember who we areand who we can become." Whether you're a jazz head, a cumbia purist, or just a curious listener, La Pantera and Descalzo offer a thrilling new chapter in Latin music's ever-evolving tale. This image released by HBO shows Cristin Milioti in a scene from "The Penguin." The actress will star in "Buddy," an upcoming horror movie being shot in Greater Cleveland. (HBO via AP) AP CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Turns out the cast of Superman arent the only DC Studios actors to film a movie in Cleveland. Production is now underway on Buddy, an independent horror-thriller starring Cristin Milioti. The actress was recently nominated for an Emmy for her role as Sofia Falcone on DCs The Penguin and is also known as the mother on How I Met Your Mother. The film is being produced by Tyler Davidson, who brought the project to his hometown. Our company, Low Spark Films, is largely comprised of Cleveland area natives and residents, including myself, and were always looking to shoot here utilizing the talented base of local cast and crew, wonderful locations and the all-important film production tax credit offered by the state, Davidson said. The production received a $1.2 million tax incentive from the state. The Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit program offers a refundable 30% tax credit on eligible in-state spending, which puts the films budget at around $4 million. The film is being made in partnership with Brooklyn, Ohio-based TRG Multimedia and its newly launched feature film production label, Substance. They have provided the soundstage infrastructure necessary to bring this one-of-a-kind project to Cleveland, Davidson added. As is always the case when we shoot in this region, its been a great experience. Angela Boehm Casting is looking to hire background actors to be extras or stand-ins for the movie. Low Sparks previous credits include Take Shelter, The Kings of Summer, My Blind Brother and The Land all of which were shot in Northeast Ohio. Buddy is directed by Casper Kelly, whose Too Many Cooks the creepy Adult Swim short that resembled the opening credits of a 1980s sitcom until it didnt became a viral sensation. Plot details are scarce, but the filmmakers told The Hollywood Reporter that the movie, written by Kelly and Jamie King (Disney+s Worlds Best), will be a new experience in horror. Great Scott Tavern in Euclid, which opened in 2015, has sat empty for two years. Cory Shaffer, Cleveland.com EUCLID, Ohio -- The City of Euclid this week bought the private parking lot formerly owned by the shuttered Great Scott Tavern in a move that many leaders believe is a key piece to its goal to revive its downtown business district. The owners of the lot on Lakeshore Boulevard just west of East 222nd Street have kept it cordoned off and closed to the public since the restaurant closed in September 2023. Many days, a white convertible was parked sideways to block the lots entrance. City Council on Monday approved legislation to buy the lot on Lakeshore Boulevard for $200,000. The city says it will open the lot to the public as soon as the deal closes, which could be as soon as early August. The move comes as the city is embarking on a multi-year plan to revive the district that has become defined by a strip of empty storefronts whose windows do little more than reflect the passing cars on Lakeshore Boulevard. Were committed to revitalizing downtown Euclid, and providing parking in this new lot is a small change with potentially big impacts, Mayor Kirsten Holzheimer Gail said in a news release announcing the purchase. We believe it will enhance the downtown experience, making it easier for people to support local businesses and enjoy our community. The plan involves turning some of the storefronts into small business incubators, with the EUC Flea vintage art market as a launching pad. Using $350,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds over the next two years and the popularity of the market, the city hopes to find vendors looking to move into brick-and-mortar retail and give them a boost by putting them into some of those empty storefronts. However, city officials knew they had to address parking, starting with the large, vacant lot. The parking situation has been a thorn in the side of people who visit downtown, Ward 5 Councilwoman Tara Hannum said in a statement. Hannum said the acquisition of the lot will help the city achieve its goal of making the district more welcoming and accessible to visitors. Its a sign that were making progress, and representative of more good things to come downtown, she said. The lot connects to Beach Club Bistro, but the restaurants customers have been unable to use it. It also sits across the street from Lakeshore Coffee House, where owner Greg Lawrence told cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer previously that the lots closure had deterred people from visiting the businesses downtown. Im smiling from ear to ear, Lawrence, who is also a member of the Downtown Euclid Improvement Corporation, said in a news release announcing the purchase. This will open up the downtown business district to more people, and it will serve the whole area in a very positive wayI couldnt be happier. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 43, entered a guilty plea Wednesday in Los Angeles federal court for administering ketamine to "Friends" actor Matthew Perry in the weeks before the actors fatal overdose. BENJAMIN CREMEL/Getty Images Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a California emergency physician, has entered a guilty plea to four federal counts related to supplying ketamine to Friends actor Matthew Perry in the final weeks before the stars death, the Associated Press reported. According to court filings, Plasencia admitted that he administered ketamine to Perry both in his home and in a Santa Monica parking lot, without proper medical justification, during late September and early October 2023, Reuters reported. He faces a potential maximum of 40 years in prison. The plea deal indicates Plasencia provided Perry with around 20 vials of ketamine, as well as lozenges and syringes, even after the actor experienced adverse reactions, including a spike in blood pressure and a physical freeze, which Plasencia observed yet continued supplying, according to AP. In his plea agreement, Plasencia acknowledged regret for prioritizing cash transactions over ethical care and said he will surrender his medical license, AP reported. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 3, and he will remain free on bond until that date, court records say. According to the indictment filed in California Central District Court, Plasencia, known to his clients as Dr. P, admitted to illegally supplying ketamine to Perry several times in the weeks leading up to his death. In one of the most damning text messages in the federal indictment, Plasencia wrote to a fellow doctor, I wonder how much this moron will pay, revealing a chilling disregard for the actors well-being. Court records say Plasencia injected Perry with large doses of ketamine in his home and even inside a car in a public parking lot in Long Beach, with no proper monitoring equipment. Despite witnessing serious physical reactions, including Perry freezing up and experiencing a dangerous blood pressure spike, Plasencia continued selling and administering the drug, saying only, Lets not do that again, to Perrys untrained, live-in personal assistant Kenneth Iwamasa before leaving behind more vials. Plascencia even taught Iwamasa how to inject Perry with ketamine, sold many vials for cash and provided fraudulent treatment records to cover his tracks, documents say. In one case, he exchanged $6,000 worth of ketamine with Iwamasa on a Santa Monica street corner at 12:30 a.m. Plasencia knew that Perry was too far gone in his addiction but continued selling to him and attempted to open a ketamine clinic during the same period, documents say. Plasencias attorney Karen L. Goldstein issued a statement Wednesday on his behalf during the change-of-plea hearing, AP reported. Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry, she said. Goldstein noted that Plasencia recognizes he failed to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction. Plasencia is the fourth of five people charged in connection with Perrys death. He joins Iwamasa, San Diego Dr. Mark Chavez and Erik Fleming, a former Hollywood director and long-time acquaintance of Perry, court documents say. The person that has still not entered a plea is Ketamine Queen, Jasveen Sangha, who is due for trial in August, court documents say. Mike DeWine and his wife, Fran, might enjoy sugary treats like a cream puff at the state fair a few years ago, but the governor has a task force working on rules to stop people on public assistance from using that assistance from some sugary products. (Jeremy Pelzer, cleveland.com) Ohios Republican leadership is on a mission to dictate what food stamp recipients can put in their shopping carts, and their latest target is clear: sugary drinks. Governor Mike DeWine has assembled a new working group to draft plans for banning soda purchases for the 1.4 million Ohioans who rely on SNAP benefits, despite nutrition experts warning such bans do little to improve health outcomes. Wednesdays Today in Ohio said the move is aimed at distracting people from more important matters. Its culture war stuff, said Chris Quinn, cleveland.com editor. Its very popular to say, how dare you use my tax dollars to buy a Coca Cola. The timing is suspicious. Suddenly, Republicans across Ohio are laser-focused on what SNAP recipients are drinking. Sen. Jon Husted has been pushing similar restrictions, creating a chorus of concern about nutrition from a party not historically known for championing public health initiatives for low-income communities. All of a sudden, everybody in the Republican Party (says) we shouldnt be spending money from SNAP on non nutritional food and were going to put a stop to it, Quinn noted on the podcast. But we had a story where we talked to all sorts of people and they said this is not going to change anything. Its not helpful. That if we really want to focus on nutrition, there are far more effective ways to do it. DeWines working group includes representatives from the Ohio Beverage Association and Ohio Grocers Association industries that would be directly impacted by the ban. The group must submit recommendations by late September, with the state required to file for a federal waiver by October to implement the changes. The effort ignores the real barriers to healthy eating for low-income Ohioans. Many SNAP recipients live in food deserts where fresh, nutritious food is scarce or prohibitively expensive. Others work multiple jobs with little time to prepare meals from scratch. The ban does nothing to address the structural issues. The podcast highlighted another critical perspective: the psychological impact of such restrictions. Leila (Atassi) wrote a really good column about SNAP, too, and she went into the psychological part of it, Laura Johnston mentioned during the discussion. At its core, the sugary drink ban sends a clear message: poor people dont deserve simple pleasures. Parents on assistance shouldnt have the autonomy to occasionally treat their children to a soda a small dignity afforded to everyone else without question. The hypocrisy is striking for a political party that often argues for less government interference in out lives, as Johnston pointed out. Podcasters noted that this is the same Republican leadership that consistently cuts taxes for the wealthy while claiming theres not enough money to fund programs that would meaningfully address poverty and nutrition. Their concern for taxpayer dollars seems to apply only when it allows them to exert control over the most vulnerable Ohioans. Well see what the DeWine task force recommends to see if it respects personal liberties of those on public assistance. Listen to the episode here. Listen to full Today in Ohio episodes where Chris Quinn hosts our daily half-hour news podcast, with Editorial Board member Lisa Garvin, Impact Editor Leila Atassi and Content Director Laura Johnston. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman led his chamber in voting to override Mike DeWine's veto of a bill to streamline property tax names. The state has all sorts of confusing names for taxes, leaving voters unsure of what they see on their ballots. The bill DeWine veto aims to clear that up. If the Senate follows the House lead, voters will get far greater transparency than they get today. (Samantha Madar/The Columbus Dispatch via AP, Pool) Samantha Madar/The Columbus Disp Ohios complex property tax system is under intense scrutiny as the state House this week overrode Governor Mike DeWines veto on a bill that would ban certain types of property tax leviesspecifically replacement, emergency, and substitute levies. While politically controversial, the bill would make taxes far more transparent when they appear on the ballot, according to Today in Ohio. Grandview Heights, Ohio, native Katherine Scarlett discusses her qualifications to chair the White House Council on Environmental Quality with the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on July 23, 2025. (Screenshot) Screenshot of Senate hearing broadcast WASHINGTON - Ohio native Katherine Scarlett on Wednesday pledged to speed up and improve environmental reviews for major projects without cutting corners if the U.S. Senate confirms her to chair the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). The Grandview Heights native has been nominated to head CEQ, which serves as the White Houses environmental policy team. CEQ ensures the government is protecting the environment as it moves forward with big national projects like highways, power plants, and clean energy efforts. It also coordinates between federal agencies to ensure they follow environmental laws, especially the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which requires the government to look at the environmental impact of major projects before they happen. It also helps guide how agencies handle environmental reviews, making sure the process is thorough but not bogged down by red tape. I will work hard every day to leverage this nations environmental policies and technologies to grow the American economy while ensuring that every American has clean air, clean water, and clean land, Scarlett told her Senate Environment and Public Works Committee confirmation hearing. Before becoming CEQ chief-of-staff in January, Scarlett worked at CEQ during Donald Trumps first presidential administration and then was an aide to U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia. Capito, who chairs the committee that will oversee Scarletts confirmation, called her very well qualified for the chairmanship. Capito said shes working with the committees top Democrat, Rhode Islands Sheldon Whitehouse, on bipartisan legislation to reform the nations environmental review and permitting processes. Whitehouse did not express any objections to Scarletts confirmation at the hearing. Im hopeful we can get a bill over the Presidents desk for his signature, and when we do, Im confident that it will be implemented faithfully under Katherines leadership at CEQ, said Capito. U.S. Sen. Jon Husted, a Columbus-area Republican, sought Scarletts views on the E-Check vehicle emissions testing program in the Cleveland area. He said the decades-old program meant to improve air quality now costs around $14 million yearly yet doesnt seem to be helping the Cleveland area meet stricter emissions standards despite todays cleaner auto emissions. Technology changes, but yet the rules and regulations remain the same, even if they dont make sense, said Husted, asking Scarlett to work with Ohio to find a more effective approach. Scarlett told him the matter would not necessarily be under CEQs jurisdiction, but said her agency is trying to apply improved technology, resources and knowledge to its administration of NEPA, and update some of its more archaic procedures that date back to the 1980s. Were really trying to work in within the NEPA process to consolidate the guidance, have a clear directive thats really disciplined and follows the statute, Scarlett told him. Thats something the agencies across this administration are going to be looking at when it comes to regulatory reform, and Im absolutely happy to be a part of any conversation that I can be helpful with to you and the state of Ohio. In recent years, several independent auditors hired by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to look into utility companies were asked or ordered by PUCO staff or utility executives to remove or soften language critical of the companies. (PUCO, file) The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio continues to allow staff to influence utility audit findings, even after the scandal involving former chair Sam Randazzo. On top of that, utilities often are allowed to review draft audit reports before the PUCO makes them available to the Consumers Counsel and the public at large -- something the Ohio Consumers Counsel office claims is a violation of state law. Consumers Counsel Maureen Willis and other state utility experts say that gives the utilities an unfair advantage in shaping the audits, which are paid for by the utilitys customers and sometimes can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. PUCO spokesman Matt Schilling, in a statement, disputed Willis criticism, saying the five-member commission takes great care to ensure due process is afforded to all parties practicing before it. The record of evidence does not align with the assertions made by the Ohio Consumers Counsel, who is either misguided or being intentionally untruthful in her assertions, Schilling stated. These are the 7 takeaways from the original article examining how this regulatory practice affects Ohio consumers. 1. PUCO staff pressured auditors to soften language critical of utilities A state-appointed auditor recently testified that PUCO staff pressured him to go easy on FirstEnergy while examining how the utility spent millions in ratepayer fees collected for grid modernization. This practice wasnt limited to former chair Sam Randazzos tenure but continues today, according to Willis, who cited multiple instances where PUCO staff urged outside auditors to remove or soften language unfavorable to utilities. 2. Utilities get early access to audit reports before the public The investigation found that utilities are often allowed to review draft audit reports before theyre made available to the Ohio Consumers Counsel and the general public. Willis office claims this practice violates state law and gives utilities an unfair advantage in shaping audit outcomes. These audits, which sometimes cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, are paid for by the utilitys customers and are meant to ensure utilities are properly managed and following regulations. 3. FirstEnergy collected $456 million without making promised grid improvements FirstEnergy collected $456 million from Ohio ratepayers via a fee intended for modernizing the companys electric grid. However, auditor Paul Corey testified that when he included recommendations to ensure the money was properly used, PUCO staff deleted those recommendations, describing them as beyond the scope of his review. A subsequent audit found no evidence that FirstEnergy used any of the $456 million on grid modernization, yet the PUCO decided the company didnt have to refund any of the money to customers. 4. AEP Ohio audit language was softened regarding coal plant subsidies In September 2020, a PUCO staffer directed an outside auditor to tone down language in a draft report regarding a $74.5 million customer fee charged by AEP Ohio to subsidize two 1950s-era coal plants. Auditor Marie Fagan initially concluded that keeping the plants running does not seem to be in the best interests of the ratepayers, but changed her wording after PUCO staff recommended using a milder tone and intensity of language. The Ohio Consumers Counsel has filed a lawsuit with the Ohio Supreme Court seeking to return the $74.5 million to AEP customers. 5. Duke Energy inappropriately influenced audit findings The PUCO approved Duke Energys creation of a new fee to collect nearly $14 million from its 840,000 electricity customers in Southwest Ohio, even after concluding that Duke had improper(ly) and inappropriate(ly) pushed PUCO staff and an outside audit firm to soften draft audit language. The language in question suggested Duke broke Ohio law by collecting money before getting required PUCO approval. Despite acknowledging Dukes improper behavior, the PUCO still approved the fee, stating it would be against the public interest to reject it solely for that reason. 6. Concerns about regulatory capture at the PUCO Critics, including the Ohio Consumer Counsels office, have claimed for years that the commission and its staff have been overly friendly with the utility companies they oversee. Willis expressed concern about regulatory capture, when a public agency becomes too cozy with the companies they regulate due to industry lobbying and revolving-door employment practices. Two current PUCO commissioners, Dan Conway and Lawrence Friedeman, previously worked for companies they now regulate, though PUCO spokesman Matt Schilling dismissed these concerns as vague claims with zero foundation. 7. Consumer advocates call for significant reforms The Ohio Consumer Counsels office has called for several reforms to address these issues, including: ending the practice of sharing draft audits with utilities before public filing, creating an independent review panel to oversee outside audits rather than relying on PUCO staff, and prohibiting anyone who has worked for a utility from being appointed to the PUCO. Willis emphasized that audit wording and recommendations are crucial because they often determine what the PUCO decides Ohio utilities can charge their customers. The Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, who have operated St. Vincent Charity Medical Center in Cleveland, pictured, since shortly after the Civil War, are moving to a new model of delivering services based on social drivers of health. The hospital was due for demolition but Cuyahoga County is looking at renovating part of it for a new behavioral health crisis center to replace the county's current Diversion Center. (John Kuntz, cleveland.com) John Kuntz, cleveland.com The good news is that Cuyahoga County is not giving up on having a behavioral health crisis center open to all, including police dealing with at-risk individuals in mental health and/or addiction crisis who need treatment, not dangerous warehousing at the County Jail. The bad news is that this was also supposed to be a purpose of the countys widely hailed Diversion Center, which opened to great fanfare in 2021 on East 55th Street near Chester Avenue in a building owned by the nonprofit Oriana House. The countys Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) board oversees its operation. But that center has been underperforming, in part because police didnt use it for diversion as broadly as was intended and partly because Oriana House struggled with staffing. cleveland.com has reported. So what, more precisely, went wrong at the Diversion Center, which is projected to close about a year after the new behavioral health crisis center opens in renovated space at the former St. Vincent Charity Medical Center on East 22nd Street near downtown? That question needs to be answered in detail by the county as it pivots to a broader approach at the new behavioral crisis center. The new center, which will be open around-the-clock and also include behavioral crisis care for juveniles and behavioral health urgent care for both adults and children, will also have an on-site pharmacy, a psychiatric stabilization unit, 13 beds for detox and an outpatient clinic, cleveland.com reports. But key questions remain: *How can staffing be sustained at the new crisis center on uncertain funding, with the countys opioid settlement funds running low? The facility still needs to be renovated, staffed and fully funded, although the county anticipates being able to pay for the approximately $30 million renovation costs with the help of $7 million in opioid settlement funds. That money is just for capital costs, however, officials have told County Council, with plans to return to Council with a $12 million funding request to cover the first three years operating costs. *Yet, are the estimated $4 million yearly costs to run the new behavioral health crisis center realistic, given that the Diversion Center, with fewer services, costs about $6 million annually to run? *Officials arent calling the new center a diversion center, but that need still exists. So how can or should police be incentivized -- or actually required by Cleveland and other police departments -- to bring individuals to the center for evaluation before taking them to the jail? *The new center will be open to all who walk in - but how to keep that from overwhelming its resources, given the local shortage of mental health beds? It would seem a triage system also is needed. *And how can the countys new behavioral health crisis center tap into the growing constellation of expertise and services in Cuyahoga County aimed at crisis care? That includes a range of levels of crisis intervention by the Cleveland police, working with behavioral health specialists and peer counselors, and through the ADAMHS Boards lower-level crisis care response pilot. The new crisis center will be operated by The Centers, which also runs -- in partnership with the county -- a Child Wellness Campus on the West Side for juveniles needing residential bed space. *Will this new behavioral health crisis center be used to test out approaches for the planned mental health unit at the new Cuyahoga County Jail being built in Garfield Heights? That seems like an obvious need, even if the crisis center will be far broader in those it serves than inmates needing services while in jail. Thats a lot of unanswered questions that Cuyahoga County needs to answer soon, and comprehensively, so the county doesnt throw good money after bad with a behavioral health crisis center that might also stumble because of lack of use, a shortage of funds to operate it, staffing troubles, or for other reasons. About our editorials: Editorials express the view of the editorial board of cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer -- the senior leadership and editorial-writing staff. As is traditional, editorials are unsigned and intended to be seen as the voice of the news organization. Have something to say about this topic? * Send a letter to the editor, which will be considered for print publication. * Email general questions about our editorial board or comments or corrections on this editorial to Elizabeth Sullivan, director of opinion, at esullivan@cleveland.com. Temperatures in Northeast Ohio are expected to soar into the lower to mid 90s on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The heat, combined with near-tropical levels of humidity, will push heat index values up to 95 to 105 degrees. Courtesy National Weather Service CLEVELAND, Ohio Northeast Ohio is about to crank up the heat, with dangerous conditions expected Thursday as both temperatures and humidity soar. Highs will reach the upper 80s to low 90s on Wednesday, but Thursday will bring even more intense heat as muggy conditions build into the region. The combination of high temperatures and rising humidity will push the heat index how it actually feels outside to potentially dangerous levels. An air quality advisory also has been issued for much of the region Wednesday due to stagnant air and a brief return of some atmospheric smoke that will work back through from the south. The air quality is expected to rise into the unhealthy for sensitive groups range, according to the Environmental Protection Agencys AirNow.gov website. People with respiratory issues or other sensitivities should limit prolonged outdoor activity. By Thursday, the heat and humidity will peak. Afternoon highs will reach the lower to mid 90s, with heat index values topping out between 95 and 105 degrees, according to forecasters with the National Weather Service in Cleveland. The hot and humid air mass is being drawn in from the Gulf of Mexico by southerly winds. Mostly sunny skies will only add to the warming. A light lake breeze will bring brief relief for lakeshore communities, but most of the region will bake under the sun. A few isolated thunderstorms could pop up late Thursday, but most places will stay dry, forecasters said. If any storms develop, they could bring strong, gusty winds. Storm chances will drop quickly after sunset on Thursday as temperatures begin to fall. Overnight temperatures both Wednesday and Thursday will provide little relief from the daytime heat, with lows only dropping to the mid 60s to lower 70s. Heat advisory issued for Thursday In anticipation of the oppressive heat, the weather service has issued a heat advisory for much of Northern Ohio including Cleveland, Akron and Lorain from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Forecasters urge residents to stay safe in the heat by drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces and avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day. If you need to be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and try to limit strenuous activity to the early morning or evening. Dont forget to check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly and those without air conditioning. A heat advisory has been issued for much of Northern Ohio for Thursday, July 24th. Heat index values up to 104 degrees are expected. Remember to take extra precautions when outside and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. #OHwx #PAwx pic.twitter.com/1LmnI2EMPV NWS Cleveland (@NWSCLE) July 23, 2025 Officials also urge residents to watch for signs of heat-related illness, which can escalate quickly. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If untreated, it can progress to heat stroke a medical emergency marked by confusion, a rapid pulse, and body temperatures of 103 degrees or higher. If someone shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and try to cool them down with shade, cool cloths or a cold bath while waiting for help. Cooling centers open in Cleveland To help residents stay cool, the city of Cleveland is opening several recreation centers as cooling centers this week. Six neighborhood resource and recreation centers will extend their hours Thursday and Friday, staying open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Each site will offer air-conditioned comfort areas and access to filtered water, city officials said in a news release. Cooling center locations include: Zelma George: 3155 Martin Luther King Blvd. Collinwood: 16300 Lakeshore Blvd. Gunning: 16700 Puritas Ave. Kovacic: 6250 St. Clair Ave. Michael Zone: 6301 Lorain Ave. Frederick Douglass: 15401 Miles Ave. Spray parks and basins will remain open any day temperatures reach 80 degrees or higher, and all outdoor pools are open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 7:30 p.m. Some indoor pools also are available on a rotating schedule throughout the week. Admission is free for all city pools and programs. When will NE Ohio see relief from the heat? The five-day weather forecast for Cleveland, Ohio, July 23 through July 27, 2025. cleveland.com Unsettled weather is expected to return to Northeast Ohio heading into the weekend, with the heat expected to moderate slightly on Friday and Saturday. The air mass over the region will remain warm and humid. Daytime highs on Friday and Saturday are expected to dip into the mid 80s due to increased cloud cover and periods of rain, while overnight lows will stay muggy, mostly in the mid 60s to mid 70s. An upper-level ridge the same system helping drive this weeks heat will weaken slightly as weather disturbances move through the Great Lakes and Northeast. That shift will bring a front into the region Friday and Saturday, increasing the chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms both days. Storms could become strong to severe, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours, when breaks of sunshine help fuel instability. Some storms may produce gusty winds, heavy downpours and isolated flash flooding, particularly in areas near Lake Erie where storms may repeatedly move over the same spots. Mingxi county in SE China's Fujian turns into a sanctuary for migratory birds People's Daily Online) 09:56, July 23, 2025 With a forest coverage rate of 82.12 percent and rich bird resources, Mingxi county in Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province provides ideal habitats for migratory birds. (People's Daily Online/Lan Zhifei) Located in Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province, Mingxi county is a place where forests thrive, with the forest coverage rate reaching 82.12 percent. The county hosts one national nature reserve, one provincial-level nature reserve, two provincial-level forest parks, and 36 county-level conservation zones. So far, 345 species of wild birds have been recorded here, including 76 species under first-class and second-class state protection in China, such as the Cabot's tragopan, Elliot's pheasant, and the mandarin duck. Every year, birdwatching enthusiasts and photographers from China and abroad flock to forests in Mingxi to admire and capture the beautiful natural scenery. Mingxi has been actively working to diversify its forests. Over the past five years, it has planted 60,100 mu (about 4,006 hectares) of new trees, tended 200,000 mu of forests, and protected 59,000 mu of land by sealing off mountainous areas to facilitate afforestation. Mingxi launched a comprehensive forest fire prevention program, installing seven aerial surveillance systems and 41 smart voice alert poles. As a result, the forest fire damage rate has stayed below 0.8 per mille, with no major forest fires reported. By leveraging technologies such as remote sensing, drones, and mobile patrol devices, Mingxi has established an integrated "space-air-ground" forest monitoring system. The county deploys 25 drones to monitor 1.2 million mu of forest annually, has installed 380 infrared cameras to track wildlife activity, and employs 143 rangers who patrol over 300,000 kilometers each year. Mingxi county, Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province attracts birds thanks to its sound ecological environment. (People's Daily Online/Lan Zhifei) A Blyth's kingfisher, a species under second-class state protection in China, catches fish at a mountain creek in Mingxi county, Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (Photo/Jiang Yuelan) In the forests of Mingxi county, one might just run into all sorts of little creatures. (People's Daily Online/Yang Haoyu) Photo shows a creek in Mingxi county, Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lan Zhifei) Photo shows a forest in Mingxi county, Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lan Zhifei) A birdwatching enthusiast captures pictures of a bird in Mingxi county, Sanming city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lan Zhifei) (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Capital One shares rose on Tuesday evening despite the company reporting an extremely noisy second-quarter result due to the Discover integration. Still, we like where the company is headed with this game-changing acquisition. Revenue in the three months ended June 30 increased 31% year over year to $12.5 billion, missing the consensus estimate of $12.7 billion, according to LSEG. Adjusted earning per share (EPS) increased 75% year over year to $5.48, exceeding the $3.72 estimate, LSEG data showed. Shares are trading up about 3% in extended trading Tuesday night to around $224 per share. If the stock closes above $220.91 on Wednesday, it will mark a new all-time high. Bottom line This was not the easiest quarter to judge, but long-term benefits of owning Discover are easy to see. The blockbuster Discover acquisition, which closed on May 18, required a lot of different accounting treatments and analyst estimates were all over the board. For example, Capital One actually reported a quarterly net loss of $4.3 billion, or $8.58 per share, based on Generally Acceptable Accounting Principles (GAAP) but, on an adjusted basis to strip out one-time impact from the deal, the company turned a huge profit of $5.48 per share. One of the largest financial impacts from the deal was the $8.8 billion worth of initial allowance build for Discover's non-purchased credit deteriorated loans. The accounting treatment for Discover's book of business is why there was a significant increase in the reported companywide provision for credit losses. Provisions for credit losses are funds that Capital One sets aside to cover potential loan defaults; the higher the provisions, the worse sign of credit quality. Backing out the Discover provisions tells a different story. If it was still a standalone company, Capital One would have had an allowance release of around $900 million, which is a great sign of improving credit trends. This is a big difference, to say the least. Capital One Financial Why we own it : Capital One's acquisition of Discover is a transformative deal with significant strategic advantages and financial benefits. There are also several billions of dollars worth of expense and network synergies that should make this deal highly accretive to earnings per share. Lastly, the acquisition strengthens Capital One's balance sheet, allowing for aggressive share repurchases in the future. Competitors : American Express, MasterCard, Visa Most recent buy : May 23, 2025 Initiated : March 6, 2025 Beyond the nitty gritty of the credit metrics, the focus of Tuesday night's earnings call was all about the Discover integration and what management's plans are now that it owns a payments network the most coveted part of the $35 billion acquisition. As CEO Richard Fairbank proudly pointed out, "There are only two banks in the world with their own network, and we are one of them. We are moving to capitalize on this rare and valuable opportunity." American Express is the other. Our thesis is that the Discover acquisition will boost Capital One's earnings power and expand its price-to-earnings multiple. With the integration just getting started, the stock remains undervalued. Although Capital One will have to invest aggressively to achieve its vision, those returns should be worth the costs and help the company grow sustainably for years. We're reiterating our buy-equivalent 1 rating and price target of $250. Deal outlook On the earnings call, the company provided some early thoughts on the how Discover integration is progressing. Broadly speaking, the integration "is off to a great start," and that's good to hear since so much of our thesis hinges on this deal being a success. However, management now expects integration costs to be "somewhat higher" than its previous announced target of $2.8 billion, which is a slightly negative development. According to Fairbank, the "integration budget" covers expenses like deal costs; moving Discover onto Capital One's tech stack; integrating products and experience; additional investments in risk management and compliance; integrating talent; and taking care of employees. In addition to the higher cost outlook, the phrase "sustained investment" came up multiple times on the conference call. Fears of endless spending to make the deal work could spook some investors. However, the firm believes these sustained investments will lead to sustained growth and stronger returns for the long run. "The portfolio of opportunities we have is the broadest and biggest set of opportunities that I've seen in our history. But the only way to get there is with investment," Fairbank said and we're banking on Fairbank being right. "I think there's a lot of value creation opportunity, but we're going to invest significantly to get there," he later added. On the synergy side, Capital One said it's on track to hit its target of $2.5 billion of net synergies, which is made up of cost savings and revenue synergies generated by moving its debit business and some of its credit business onto the Discover network. Capital One began the process of reissuing Capital One debt cards onto that network last month, Fairbank said. The conversion process will continue "in phases through early 2026," he said. Longer term, the company sees a significant opportunity to invest in the network to achieve greater international acceptance and build a global network brand. Management wants to do this to lure bigger spenders onto the Discover network, and doing so could eventually could help the company exceed its synergy targets , Fairbank has said. Commentary As mentioned earlier, the actual quarterly results were hard to evaluate versus expectations because the estimates themselves varied tremendously. Analysts need time to fine-tune their models for the combined company. For that reason, we're not putting too much stock into all the red seen in the chart above. The bearish view on Capital One is that the tariff-driven plunge in consumer sentiment would hurt the economy and materially impact Capital One's credit performance. Since Capital One is one of the more exposed credit card companies to subprime, it's usually the first to feel the pain of an economic slowdown. And yet, the bank's credit performance has been healthy and steadily getting better. "Capital One's card delinquencies have been improving on a seasonally adjusted basis since October of last year, and our losses have been improving since January of 2025," Fairbank said on the call. Capital One's "legacy" domestic card portfolio, which does not include Discover, also saw its net charge off rate decline 55 basis points year over year to 5.5%. Net charge-offs refer to the amount of debt a bank has written off as uncollectible, minus any recoveries. A decline is a good thing. Toward the end of Tuesday night's call, Fairbank spoke more generally about the health of the U.S. consumer and economy, striking an upbeat tone. "If we don't read the news and just look at what our customers are telling us with their behaviors, it is a picture of strength," he said. As for buybacks, the company repurchased $150 million worth of stock in the quarter, bringing its full-year total to $300 million. Following another successful round of Federal Reserve stress tests in June, there's a lot of potential here for years of multibillion dollar buybacks. But management is still working through the internal modeling of the combined company, and they plan on making an update once that is complete. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long COF. 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. US President Donald Trump looks on as Alina Habba speaks during a swearing in ceremony as US Attorney General for New Jersey, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on March 28, 2025. The U.S. Justice Department accused a panel of New Jersey federal court judges of political motives for declining to permanently appoint President Donald Trump's former lawyer Alina Habba as the state's top federal prosecutor. The judges on the U.S. District Court in New Jersey named Desiree Grace, the second highest-ranking official in the U.S. attorney's office, to replace Habba on Tuesday. Hours later Attorney General Pam Bondi said Grace also had been removed. "This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges especially when they threaten the President's core Article II powers," Bondi wrote in a post on X, referring to Trump's authority under the U.S. Constitution. Federal law allows district courts to intervene if an interim U.S. attorney has not received Senate approval within 120 days. Habba has been serving as New Jersey's interim U.S. attorney since her appointment by Trump in March, but was limited by law to 120 days in office unless the court agreed to keep her in place. The U.S. Senate has not yet acted on her formal nomination to the role, submitted by Trump this month. Habba and Grace could not be immediately reached for comment. Todd Blanche, the deputy attorney general, said in a statement on X that the U.S. District Court in New Jersey was trying to "force" Habba out of her job before her term expires at 11:59 p.m. on Friday. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York last week declined to keep Trump's U.S. attorney pick John Sarcone in place after his 120-day term neared expiration. Sarcone managed to stay in the office after the Justice Department found a workaround by naming him as "special attorney to the attorney general," according to the New York Times. The Justice Department cannot make a similar arrangement for Habba, however, because federal law prohibits the government from appointing someone to serve in an acting capacity if the individual was already nominated by the president to serve in that role. Habba's brief tenure as New Jersey's interim U.S. attorney included the filing of multiple legal actions against Democratic elected officials. Her office brought criminal charges against Democratic U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver, as she and other members of Congress and Newark's Democratic mayor, Ras Baraka, tried to visit an immigration detention center. The scene grew chaotic after immigration agents tried to arrest Baraka for trespassing, and McIver's elbows appeared to make brief contact with an immigration officer. Habba's office charged McIver with two counts of assaulting and impeding a law enforcement officer. McIver has pleaded not guilty. Habba's office did not follow Justice Department rules which require prosecutors to seek permission from the Public Integrity Section before bringing criminal charges against a member of Congress for conduct related to their official duties. Habba's office also charged Baraka, but later dropped the case, prompting a federal magistrate judge to criticize her office for its handling of the matter. Until March, Habba had never worked as a prosecutor. She represented Trump in a variety of civil litigation, including a trial in which a jury found Trump liable for defaming writer E. Jean Carroll after she accused him of raping her in the mid-1990s in a department store dressing room. In 2023, a federal judge in Florida sanctioned Trump and Habba and ordered them to pay $1 million for filing a frivolous lawsuit which alleged that Hillary Clinton and others conspired to damage Trump's reputation in the investigation into Trump's 2016 presidential campaign. Stocks @ Night is a daily newsletter delivered after hours, giving you a first look at tomorrow and last look at today. Sign up for free to receive it directly in your inbox. Here's what CNBC TV's producers were watching as the S & P 500 posted its 11th record close in 2025, and what's on the radar for the next session. Winning with laggards CNBC's Mike Santoli pointing out that many of Tuesday's biggest winners are some of this year's biggest losers. On the list, Lennar gained 8.3% Tuesday, but shares are down 9.6% this year. The stock is 36% off the high. Pool Corp rose 5.2% Tuesday, but it's down 7.7% year to date. The stock is down 20% from the 52-week high. Shares of Target jumped 4.8% Tuesday. Shares are down 21% year to date. They are down 36% from the 52-week high. Kraft Heinz was up 4.7% in the session. Shares are down 6% year to date and off 21% from the high. Campbell's was up 4.6% on Tuesday, but it's down 23% year to date. Shares are down 39% from the high. CPB YTD mountain Campbell's shares in 2025 Losing with winners On the other side of the coin: Philip Morris is up 37% in 2025, but was down 8.4% on Tuesday. The stock is off 11% from last month's high. Axon , maker of the Taser, is up 21% in 2025. Shares were down 4% Tuesday, and they are off 13% from last month's high. Netflix is up 33% in 2025, but it was down 3.5% on Tuesday. The stock is down 11% from the June 30 high. GE Vernova is up nearly 67% in 2025. Shares were down about 3% Tuesday. The stock is down 5.5% from the high reached last week. AT & T earnings on deck The telecom giant will report before the bell Wednesday. We'll share results on " Squawk Box ." The stock has gained 1.7% over the past three months. AT & T is off 6% from the 52-week high. T YTD mountain AT & T shares in 2025 Big names reporting after the bell Wednesday Alphabet has gained 26% over three months. The stock is down 7.6% from the February high. IBM has advanced 17% in three months. Shares are off 4.8% from the June high. Tesla has surged nearly 40% in three months. The stock is 32% from the December high. Ups and downs in defense CNBC data guru Gina Francolla and CNBC defense reporter Morgan Brennan reported on Tuesday that Northrop Grumman hit an all-time high during the session. Competitor Lockheed Martin hit a 52-week low. Both defense giants reported results Tuesday morning: Lockheed missed Wall Street's expectations for revenue. Northrop Grumman beat estimates and hiked guidance. Shares of Northrop are up 13% in July. Lockheed fell nearly 11% Tuesday. LMT 5D mountain Lockheed Martin in the past five trading days Coca-Cola and the Great American Consumer Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey spoke with Sara Eisen in an exclusive interview on "Squawk on the Street." He said, "I think the consumer is resilient. The economy is doing well." On the big question regarding sugar cane in beverages, Quincey said, "Later this fall, we're going to launch... a Coke option sweetened with U.S. cane sugar put in the marketplace." He said that President Donald Trump, who recently called for the beverage giant to use cane sugar , "enjoys the Coca-Cola brand." "We love that he's an enthusiastic consumer," Quincey added. The company topped earnings estimates on Tuesday morning. The stock is down 6% from the 52-week high. We'll keep following Coke and more earnings Wednesday on CNBC. Thanks to CNBC executive producer Lisa Villalobos for keeping tabs on the quotes. The front desk of the Amazon office is pictured in New York, May 1, 2019. Amazon is shuttering its research lab in Shanghai focused on artificial intelligence development, the latest belt-tightening move by the e-commerce and cloud computing giant. Wang Minjie, an applied scientist at the lab, wrote in a WeChat post earlier this week that Amazon disbanded the team due to "strategic adjustments amid U.S.-China tensions." Amazon spokesperson Brad Glasser said in a statement that the company "made the difficult business decision to eliminate some roles across particular teams" in its Amazon Web Services unit. The Financial Times was first to report on the lab closure. Amazon announced layoffs at AWS last week, with U.S. teams focused on marketing and training and certification among those that were impacted. In 2019, just after her 30th birthday, Aleese Lightyear left a career in reality TV production behind to teach English as a second language in China. At the time, Lightyear was earning around $100,000 a year, working eight months out of the year. "I was living check to check, which sucked. My last few years living and working in New York City were some of the most stressful years of my life," Lightyear tells CNBC Make It. "I was tired of working 70 hours a week for ten years. Being in my 20s, I felt like a 50-year-old woman." It was a quick Google search that helped Lightyear decide to leave life as she knew it in New York City, for something very different. She searched "How do I make money and travel the world?" and the result at the very top of the list was all about teaching English abroad. She then spoke with a coworker who had taught in South Korea, and started learning as much as she could about what it would take to teach overseas with no experience. For the rest of that year, she took on various odd jobs to supplement her income. As a freelancer, Lightyear had no retirement savings, benefits, or health insurance. "On paper [it] sounds great, but New York City is one of the world's most expensive cities, so that $100,000 went extremely fast," Lightyear says. "I should have been saving for those things. I was living check to check, which sucked. My last few years living and working in New York City were some of the most stressful years of my life." Lightyear supplements her teacher's salary with content creation. Marc Aziz Ressang for CNBC Make It After completing a 13-week program to get a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification, Lightyear moved to Beijing. She lived in the Chinese capital for four years, working as a teacher, before relocating to Chengdu in 2023, where she currently teaches English essay writing at a university. Lightyear works 18 hours a week, four days a week and has a yearly salary of about $30,000 USD. $30,000 a year is poverty in America but in China, I'm living large," she says. Some of the benefits and perks of Lightyear's job include free health insurance, a travel stipend, a flight allowance, two months of paid summer and winter vacation, and a rent stipend. Lightyear took a pay cut when she left her teaching job in Beijing, but doesn't regret it because life in the Chinese capital started to feel too similar to her time in New York City. "I didn't move all the way across the world to work as much as I did in New York," she says. "My current work-life balance is a dream. I'm able to have time to do so many different hobbies, to take the time to actually learn the language and to do whatever I want when I want, and that feels amazing. I just feel so lucky and happy to be able to have so much time to myself." Lightyear moved to Chengdu in 2023. Marc Aziz Ressang for CNBC Make It In Chengdu, Lightyear lives in a pre-furnished three-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment with a balcony and laundry room. Because of the rent stipend , Lightyear pays only $278 for her accommodations. She also spends about $15 a month for her Internet, cell phone and Wi-Fi, $75 a month on groceries, $50 a month on electricity and $150 a month on eating out roughly $568 a month in expenses. That doesn't include her water and gas bill, which Lightyear says she still hasn't had to pay for because her landlord prepaid for those utilities before she moved into the apartment. Lightyear also works as a content creator and has an active YouTube channel. That supplemental income allows her to save up to $1,000 a month. "I haven't saved enough money to buy a house in the U.S. but I have saved enough money to pay off a lot of my student loans and I think I've saved enough money to buy a little casita on the beach in Mexico," she says. "Fingers crossed that is the plan." Lightyear says she spends about $75 USD on groceries each month. Marc Aziz Ressang for CNBC Make It In this article AAPL GOOGL GOOG Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT A series of iPhone 16s on display inside the Apple store at Tun Razak Exchange in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sept. 20, 2024. Annice Lyn | Getty Images News | Getty Images Britain's competition regulators on Wednesday took aim at the mobile ecosystems of Apple and Google, pushing the two companies to make changes to areas like their app stores. On Wednesday, the Competition and Markets Authority proposed designating the U.S. tech giants as having a "strategic market status" or SMS, after opening an investigation into the matter in January. This designation is given to a large company that has "substantial and entrenched market power" and a "position of strategic significance" with respect to a digital activity in the U.K. The CMA can force firms that are branded as having SMS to change or stop specific behaviors or practices in order to address competition concerns. Apple and Google both took issue with the CMA's proposals, effectively saying they would be bad for user security and consumers overall. What has the CMA taken issue with? Britain's regulator focused on investigating Apple and Google's mobile operating systems, app store and browser. One aspect of the investigation looked at whether there are barriers that may prevent other competitors from offering rival products and services on the U.S. tech giants' mobile platforms. Another part of the probe examined whether Apple and Google are using their position in operating systems, app distribution or browsers to favor its own apps and services. And the final aspect of the investigation studied whether Apple and Google require developers to sign up to "unfair terms and conditions" in order to distribute their apps via the respective app stores. The CMA on Wednesday said consumers and businesses have raised concerns about different issues across the two companies' mobile ecosystems. But some of these include "inconsistent and unpredictable app review processes" and "inconsistent app store search rankings" that may favor the tech giants' own apps. The British regulator also took aim at the up to 30% commission charged by the firms on some in-app purchases and restrictions on developers telling customers about cheaper ways to pay or to subscribe outside of the app. As part of Google and Apple's review process to allow apps on to their app stores, developers raised concerns that the tech companies could have access to commercially sensitive data of their competitors, the CMA said. Google's Android operating system commands just over 61% market share in the U.K., while Apple's iOS has just over a 38%, according to Kantar data. Google runs the Google Play store and Chrome browser, and Apple has its App Store and Safari browser. What changes does the CMA want? The CMA has laid out immediate changes that it wants to see, alongside some longer-term steps. The regulator said that it wants Apple to review apps for distribution in a "fair, objective and transparent manner." This could include remedies such as Apple explaining delays or rejections and creating an avenue for businesses to raise concerns about the process. Apple could also be made to publish a methodology for how it ranks apps in the App Store. The CMA has laid out similar remedies for Google. The regulator is looking at how Apple and Google can make it easy for users to be steered by developers outside of an app to pay for services and products, thus avoiding their respective in-app purchase fee. The CMA is also looking into ways to make it easier for users to transfer data between Apple's iOS and Google's Android to make switching easier. For next year, the CMA said it is still looking at whether to require Apple to allow alternative app stores in iOS and the company's iPad software. The regulator also said it is exploring whether to force Apple to allow users to download apps directly from a developer's own website, a practice known as "sideloading." Apple and Google react Apple said in a statement that the proposals from the U.K. "would undermine the privacy and security protections that our users have come to expect, hamper our ability to innovate, and force us to give away our technology for free to foreign competitors," "We will continue to engage with the regulator to make sure they fully understand these risks." Google's Senior Director of Competition Oliver Bethell noted that both the Google Chrome browser and Android's operating system are built on open-source code. "These offerings enable great choice, security and innovation for users. That's why today's announcement is both disappointing and unwarranted," Bethell said. The Google executive highlighted ways in which Android has helped British developers and the economy. "It is therefore crucial that any new regulation is evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the U.K We remain committed to constructive engagement with the CMA for the duration of this process," Bethell said. U.S. tech giants face European scrutiny Bank of America is getting bullish on Amazon ahead of the e-commerce giant's earnings release, saying the company is getting ready to unlock its full artificial intelligence potential in the back half of the year. Analyst Justin Post reiterated his buy rating on Amazon and lifted his price target by $17 to $265. That suggests shares could gain 16.5% from their close Tuesday. Amazon, which is set to report financial results on July 31, has seen shares rise 3.7% year to date. Post hiked his estimates for strong second-quarter retail data and Anthropic AI growth, and said his estimates for the quarter remain above the Street given strong e-commerce data, longer Prime Day sales and currency tail winds. Heading into the second half of the year, the analyst expects strong AI demand and Amazon Web Services capacity growth to be a key stock driver. To be sure, he anticipates AWS growth in the second quarter to reflect a slight deceleration from the first. "Amazon's YTD commentary on AWS capacity constraints, plus recent competitor Cloud revenue acceleration has likely elevated Street focus on AWS," Post wrote in a Wednesday note to clients. "We think 2Q Retail is setting up for a solid quarter, plus a strong 1Q for AWS backlog and accelerating quarterly AWS capex spending should drive accelerating 2H AWS growth." "We think the most important commentary on the call will be 2H outlook for AWS growth (if provided), investors could become impatient on returns for ramping quarterly AWS capex spend given competitor acceleration," Post added. Looking ahead, the analyst said this year's longer Prime Day event and consumer resilience could drive a strong third-quarter outlook. Tariff uncertainty remains a key risk for the stock, he said. Amazon previously called out "tariffs and trade policies" and "recessionary fears" among several factors that could make its guidance subject to change. The tech giant topped earnings and revenue expectations for the first quarter, but had given light guidance for the second. White sandy beaches and mild, sunny climates have long been features of the archetypal American retirement. But perhaps not anymore. New Hampshire, a state known more for its skiing than its sunshine, was named the best U.S. state to retire in Bankrate's 2025 rankings. The financial services website ranked all 50 states based on 15 metrics, including affordability, health care and weather. The study used data from a variety of sources, including the Council for Community and Economic Research, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The metrics were weighed according to survey responses gathered by Bankrate in May 2025 on what Americans say are their top priorities for choosing a retirement destination. As a result, affordability, weather and neighborhood safety influenced overall scores the most. Retirees won't be flocking to New Hampshire for its climate, it seems, as it ranked 40th in the country for weather. But it earned the No. 1 spot for neighborhood safety and landed in the top 10 for health care, tax-friendliness and number of residents aged 65 or older. Here are the 10 best states to retire in 2025, according to Bankrate: This is the script of CNBC's financial news report for China's CCTV on July 23, 2025. As the August 1st deadline approaches, the U.S. government is intensifying efforts to reach trade agreements with various countries. On Tuesday local time, progress was made in trade negotiations between the U.S. and Southeast Asian nations. According to the joint statement released by the White House, U.S. tariffs on Indonesia have been reduced from the previously threatened 32% in April to 19%. In return, Indonesia will lower tariffs to 0% on 99% of U.S. exports to Indonesia, covering sectors such as agricultural products, healthcare products, aquatic products, as well as communications technology, automobiles, and chemicals. In terms of tariff rates, the Special Adviser to the Indonesian President on International Trade said in an interview with CNBC that while the original 32% tariff level would have significantly impacted Indonesia's economy, the current 19% tariff is expected to shift the effect on GDP from a negative 0.6% to a positive growth of 0.5%. Mari Pangestu Indonesia President's Special Advisor for International Trade "We will be able to avoid, hopefully, the potential retrenchment in our labor intensive industries and exports, which have been the worst hit with the 32% tariff." It is worth noting that, according to the joint statement, Indonesia will comprehensively ease non-tariff barriers on U.S. industrial and agricultural products, including localization requirements, certification standards, import permits, and more. Specifically, Indonesia has agreed to exempt U.S.-invested companies and their products of origin from local content requirements. Previously, this policy was seen as a key measure to promote local employment in Indonesia, but it has now been relaxed. Secondly, Indonesia has agreed to adopt for American-made cars exported to Indonesia, which is also a positive development for U.S. automakers. Additionally, Indonesia will lift export restrictions on critical minerals. Moreover, overnight, Trump announced that the U.S. would impose a 19% tariff on the Philippines. This tariff adjustment follows a rise from 17% in April to 20% at the beginning of this month, and has now been reduced to 19%, matching the rate applied to Indonesia. According to U.S. government data, the U.S. trade deficit with the Philippines last year was $4.9 billion, with bilateral trade totaling $23.5 billion. In response to Trump's proposal for the Philippines to open its market to the U.S. and implement zero tariffs, the Philippines has yet to respond. Previously, the Philippines stated that it could not implement zero tariffs on U.S. goods like Vietnam and Indonesia, as it would harm the interests of domestic businesses. The president of the Philippine Exporters Confederation said in a CNBC interview that, based on a survey of local exporters, 10% of respondents reported their buyers were in a wait-and-see mode due to uncertainty about absorbing additional costs. However, most of these orders have already been successfully redirected to other markets. For Southeast Asian countries, they are closely monitoring the progress of trade negotiations between their neighbors and the U.S. This attention underscores the interconnected nature of regional trade dynamics and the potential ripple effects of bilateral agreements on neighboring economies. Sergio Ortiz-Luis President of the Philippine Exporters Confederation "We're really worried about the negotiations of our competitors. So sort of especially in the region. Because if what happens to Vietnam happens to the other countries here who have the same products with us, then we have a problem in the US, at least." San Francisco-based AI design app Lovart officially launched Wednesday, with North American users in focus. Lovart BEIJING Chinese developers are powering some of the latest artificial intelligence tools aimed at a global market. Melvin Chen moved to San Francisco from China to co-found AI design startup Lovart, which officially launched Wednesday after claiming "800,000 users across 70 countries" for its test version. "We will focus on North America as the first step," Chen said in Mandarin, translated by CNBC. He previously led China operations for CapCut, a popular video-editing app from ByteDance that still ranks first in the photo and video category in Apple's U.S. App Store. Lovart uses AI to generate logos, stickers and other branding visuals based on text prompts. The new version launching Wednesday includes a "ChatCanvas" feature that claims to make specific edits easier a client might ask a professional designer to switch two icons, a task difficult to explain only with words but simple when visuals are included, Chen said. He expects Lovart to surpass 1 million users in the week after its launch. But he said the app isn't coming to China soon, mostly because it's based on Anthropic's Claude 4 AI model and others from OpenAI both of which aren't officially available in China. Beijing has to give generative AI models the green light for public use and operates a stringent firewall that blocks sites such as Google and Facebook. Companies also have their own rules about where their services can be used. watch now While most of Lovart's team is based in San Francisco with the aim of better localizing the product, Chen said part of the production team is in China. He declined to share operating costs, and said the startup would seek investor funding after securing sufficient user growth. Lovart has a free-to-use option, with monthly subscription fees of up to $90 for wider usage. AI applications for video In a global AI race, the U.S. government has in the last several years ramped up its restrictions on American companies selling advanced semiconductors to China. San Francisco-based OpenAI launched its ChatGPT chatbot in late 2022, and it wasn't until January this year that China produced a clear rival with DeepSeek's breakthrough. But analysts have long expected China's AI advantage would likely lie in applications rather than models, especially given that internet-based Chinese companies were able to build massive food delivery and short-video apps for the large local consumer market. Already in AI video generation, Kuaishou's Kling and Shengshu's Vidu have gained global users in the last 18 months. In the realm of AI agents that can automatically perform a series of complex tasks, Manus has caught international attention. "China-affiliated teams are increasingly influential, driven by concentrated technical talent, agile development culture, and policy support for AI commercialization," said Charlie Dai, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. "They excel in cost-efficient model training and rapid consumer app iteration, often prioritizing open-source accessibility." "Chinese models now compete globally, challenging U.S. dominance while lowering AI costs," he said. Another advantage is that China models such as DeepSeek and several others are open source, meaning they are free for developers to download and use. Hugging Face, an online platform that allows people to try out open source AI models, regularly show that China models are among the top trending ones for users. As of Wednesday, the Kimi K2 coding-focused model that was launched this month ranked first on the site, followed by Alibaba's Qwen3 coding-focused modes that launched earlier in the day. In image-to-3D models, Tencent's Hunyuan ranks first, while France-based Mistral's Voxtral ranks first in audio-text-to-text. Chen said Lovart will focus on AI for generating images and videos rather than 3D models. "AI is the new camera ... [for] capturing human imagination," he said. He said the startup aims to build traction by holding events with the design community, including in New York, Tokyo and Europe. Subscribe now Weekly analysis and insights from Asia's largest economy in your inbox A staff member prepares for the arrival of Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and EU Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, Teresa Ribera during China-EU Sixth High Level Environment and Climate Dialogue (HECD) at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing on July 14, 2025. China and the European Union will hold a top-level meeting in Beijing on Thursday, while the U.S. is making their already tense relationship more complicated. Clashes over trade and economic policy, technological issues and defense and security have been commonplace between China and the EU and tensions have recently been heating up. For example, the EU imposed restrictions on Chinese companies taking part in public tenders for medical devices in the bloc, prompting China to respond with countermeasures. In large part, the strain between the two trading partners is linked to concerns about how domestic economies and companies could be impacted by imports. The high-stakes summit, which is the 25th between the partners and marks 50 years of bilateral relations, was therefore already taking place under less than ideal circumstances. Initially scheduled to take place in Brussels, the meeting was then cut from two days to one which was widely understood as another sign of fragile EU-China ties. "Relations between Brussels and Beijing are particularly tense," Jorn Fleck, senior director at the Europe Center at the Atlantic Council, told CNBC. "The EU and China have more to argue about than they agree on, even if neither side can afford to let the relationship deteriorate much further given the global outlook and their respective economic positions," Fleck said. In this article GS Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Aerial view of a villager drying Chinese fan palm leaves on July 21, 2025 in Neijiang, Sichuan province of China. Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images This report is from this week's CNBC's The China Connection newsletter, which brings you insights and analysis on what's driving the world's second-largest economy. Each week, we'll explore the biggest business stories in China, give a lowdown on market moves and help you set up for the week ahead. Like what you see? You can subscribe here. The big story China's economy requires more than short-term stimulus, even as deflationary pressures intensify. That's the message from economists, including those at the highly regarded Peking University's Guanghua School of Management. Academics at Beijing's top schools often share recommendations with policymakers. It's not that the persistent drop in prices should be overlooked, but that they're signaling the need for more serious changes just as China prepares its "15th five-year plan." It's a national social and economic development blueprint for the period from 2026 to 2030. China is wrapping up its 14th such plan this year and is expected to reveal details for the next five years in the coming months. "When we talk about the 15th five-year plan, the key issue is how to grow productivity," Liu Qiao, dean of the Guanghua School and a finance professor, told me last week. He's referring specifically to "total factor productivity," a measure of an economy's productivity gains from technology, innovation, economies of scale, or policies, without adding more labor or capital. According to the International Monetary Fund, China's total TFP growth fell from 4.1% in the 2000s to 2.6% in the 2010s, and entered a state of decline from 2006. Liu believes China's TFP needs to grow by at least 2% or more. To that end, tech innovation is an important part of the upcoming five-year plan, Liu said. But he added that institutional reform is just as important. The Chinese Communist Party's grip on the state and its institutions enables it to exert greater influence over the economy than in the U.S., for example. "80% of China's total factor productivity comes from institutional reform," economist Zhou Tianyong wrote in an opinion piece in Chinese business news magazine Caixin, which CNBC translated. Zhou is a former vice president of the International Strategy Institute at the Central Party School, China's higher education institution for training party leaders. Zhou pointed out that the textbook definition of technology as a way to boost productivity doesn't necessarily apply in China, where business and consumer interests are constrained in certain areas. "Without economic system reform, there will be no medium-to-high-speed growth." All this may seem rather academic for the average markets discussion more focused on deflation, industrial overcapacity and spillover into trade tensions. But public debate is limited in China. In a country where leaders operate by building consensus behind closed doors, policy signals come largely from key phrases in government documents and high-level speeches. Change in incentives One of those signals has emerged in just the last few weeks. Chinese President Xi Jinping led a high-level financial and economic commission meeting on July 1, which called for improving government officials' understanding of how their performance is evaluated, according to a state media readout. "Routine assessments [of officials] cannot only focus on how much GDP has grown and the number of major projects, but also on how much debt is owed," Xi said at another high-level meeting this month that focused on urban development. The current system for evaluating the performance of government officials has also inadvertently contributed to China's overcapacity issues, where industries are producing more goods than the market can absorb, according to Goldman Sachs. Local authorities are incentivised to collect revenue even if manufacturers are losing money under the current production-based tax system, Goldman Sachs Chief China Economist Hui Shan said in a report Monday. "Solving overcapacity issues requires a different incentive structure for local officials' evaluation and promotion," she added. "None of these fundamental adjustments will be easy or quick to implement." As China's economic growth slowed over the last several years, Beijing has emphasized the need for "high-quality" development. But the country still makes a big deal out of its annual GDP target, which is 5% this year. Looking ahead, China will likely signal a lower growth target around 4.5% to 5%, Guanghua's Liu said. But what's more important in his view is that local authorities may then be able to focus more on consumption, rather than investments, which have contributed to overcapacity issues. Still trying to boost demand Policymakers will likely also try to reduce the gap in urban and rural income or "common prosperity" which can increase support for 255 million people and help boost consumption, Liu said. But in the near term, the economy probably needs a little more stimulus, such as a cash transfer, he said. Chinese authorities have stepped up plans to further support employment and improve social welfare. But policymakers have so far avoided the mass cash handouts that the U.S. and Hong Kong gave residents to stimulate spending after the pandemic. In a packed month for policymakers, senior party members are also expected to hold a Politburo meeting to discuss the economy by the end of the month. But analysts don't have high expectations. With the first half of the year in the books, the scale of stimulus is pretty much already set, and policymakers are now turning their attention to the next five years, said Zong Liang, former chief researcher at the Bank of China. He expects policymakers to prioritize consumption over investment, and tilt the balance toward the interests of businesses, noting the state has played a larger role in the past five years. But he cautioned that Beijing would remain wary of the risks that could arise from relaxing too much control. Old habits may die hard. Top TV picks on CNBC watch now Trina Chen, co-head of China equity research at Goldman Sachs, discussed China's efforts to manage overcapacity in key sectors like solar, steel and lithium. watch now Yang Liu, CIO and chairman of Atlantis Investment Management, said that negative views on China's economy ignore the country's strengths in artificial intelligence and supply chains. watch now David Autor, labor economist at MIT, said that the U.S. has not "fully come to grips" with the nature of the challenge it faces from China. Need to know China is going after excessive discounts. Premier Li Qiang last week called for more regulatory oversight of the electric car price war. The market regulator later stated on Friday that it had met with JD.com, Meituan, and Alibaba's Eleme, and called on them to compete rationally. U.S.-China trade truce set for extension. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday he is likely to hash out an extension of President Donald Trump's upcoming trade deadline with China when he meets with his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week. Economic uncertainty persists. China kept its benchmark lending rates steady on Monday as the country continues to grapple with weak consumer sentiment and softening growth. But the country's affluent are feeling just as poorly about the economy as they did during the pandemic, according to consulting firm Oliver Wyman. In the markets Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon The performance of the Shanghai Composite over the past year. Mainland China and Hong Kong stocks rose on Wednesday amid a broader rise in the region, after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he had completed a "massive Deal" with Japan, which set tariffs of 15% on the country's exports to the U.S. Mainland China's CSI 300 was up 0.02% while Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index which includes major Chinese companies had gained 1.27% as of 3:30 p.m. local time (3:30 a.m. ET). The Hang Seng Tech Index, which tracks the largest technology companies listed in Hong Kong, rose 2.14%. The mainland benchmark is up around 4.7% year to date, data from LSEG showed. Coming up U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is leading a presidential delegation at a ceremony for U.S. National Day at the World Expo 2025 on July 19, 2025, in Osaka, Japan. The anchoring effect is one of the sneakiest tools companies use to make us spend money. Here's how it works. Let's say we're shopping for a smartphone manufactured by Dapple, which has just released two new models: a $1,200 model with a big screen and a $900 one that is more compact. The more expensive smartphone will serve as the "anchor" by which we make comparisons, so the $900 model will appear to be value for money even if it is costly in absolute terms. But we're likely to feel good about choosing it because we've "saved" $300 on our purchase. This scenario seems to be what's happening with the U.S-Japan trade agreement freshly announced late Tuesday stateside. U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would gain access to Japan's markets for rice and cars which had been sticking points during negotiations while the latter would see 15% tariffs on its exports to America. At first glance, that doesn't sound too positive for Japan. But, in comparison with the 25% tariff Trump slapped on Tokyo earlier this month, it's a big improvement. As Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said, "It's a sign of the times that markets would cheer 15% tariffs. A year ago, that level of tariffs would be shocking. Today, we breathe a sigh of relief." That, in essence, is the anchoring effect at play. A man walks in front of an electronic quotation board displaying the Nikkei Stock Average on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in Tokyo on July 23, 2025. The anchoring effect is one of the sneakiest tools companies use to make us spend money. Here's how it works. Let's say we're shopping for a smartphone manufactured by Dapple, which has just released two new models: a $1,200 model with a big screen and a $900 one that is more compact. The more expensive smartphone will serve as the "anchor" by which we make comparisons, so the $900 model will appear to be value for money even if it is costly in absolute terms. But we're likely to feel good about choosing it because we've "saved" $300 on our purchase. This scenario seems to be what's happening with the U.S-Japan trade agreement freshly announced late Tuesday stateside. U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington would gain access to Japan's markets for rice and cars which had been sticking points during negotiations while the latter would see 15% tariffs on its exports to America. At first glance, that doesn't sound too positive for Japan. But investors celebrated the news the Nikkei 225 jumped 3.8% at 1:45 a.m. ET. After all, a 15% tariff rate is a big improvement from the 25% tariff Trump slapped on Tokyo earlier this month. Furthermore, Japanese auto exports to the U.S. which made up 28.3% of all shipments in 2024 will face a tariff of 15%, lower than the universal 25% other countries are subject to. As Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said, "It's a sign of the times that markets would cheer 15% tariffs. A year ago, that level of tariffs would be shocking. Today, we breathe a sigh of relief." That, in essence, is the anchoring effect at play. Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a "Morning Meeting" livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Wednesday's key moments. 1. The stock market is higher Wednesday following news that President Donald Trump announced a new trade deal with Japan. In a post on Truth Social late Tuesday, Trump said Japanese imports into the U.S. would be subject to a 15% tariff, including for automobiles, which had been subject to a 25% rate. Japan will also invest $550 billion into the U.S., Trump said, and buy 100 Boeing planes. "It's a win for Japan, a win for us," said Jim Cramer. On the other hand, "we have this meme problem again," Jim said, referencing meme traders who are orchestrating short squeezes on stocks like Kohl's, GoPro, and Krispy Kreme. "I like to see a legitimate way to make money," Jim said. 2. Club name GE Vernova rallied over 15% Wednesday after an earnings beat. Jim said it was "maybe the best story in the entire market." The company, whose gas turbines are essential in generating electricity, saw a very strong quarter with healthy revenue and beats on revenue and adjusted earnings per share. In the AI race, "everyone is power short," Jim said. With the stock's rally intensifying in the wake of the Morning Meeting, our view is now that investors shouldn't chase this move and wait for a better price. 3. On tap for earnings Thursday are Club names Dover and Honeywell . Both of the stocks were recently named by analysts as catalyst buy ideas into earnings in the past month. Over at Citi, analysts last week called Dover's accelerating growth underappreciated. "I don't have as much conviction on Dover, " Jim said, citing last quarter's mixed quarter. Separately, Deutsche Bank analysts said they foresee a high probability of Honeywell delivering a second-quarter beat and material raise to the full-year guidance. We like that Honeywell has set more realistic guidance so far this year. Jim said it still "matters" that Honeywell is in breakup mode, with its advanced materials and aerospace businesses on their way to being separated. 4. Stocks covered in Wednesday's rapid fire at the end of the video were: Texas Instruments , AT & T , Otis , Hasbro , and Lamb Weston . (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long DOV, GEV, HON . 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. My top 10 things to watch Wednesday, July 23 1. We're headed for a higher open this morning after President Donald Trump announced a surprise trade deal with Japan for lower-than-expected tariffs of 15% on each others' goods. He said Japan also pledged to invest $550 billion in the U.S. It could be a template for the rest of the world. 2. Club name GE Vernova reported a blowout quarter for its power and electrification segments, sending shares up almost 8% this morning. With the AI boom, power demands are far outstripping what can be made right now. Nuclear is now coming on both in Canada and in 18 months the U.S. with TVA. 3. Fabulous numbers from Capital One last night in its first report since acquiring Discover in May. The Club holding is now ready to rival American Express as the only other credit card issuer with a payments network. The combined company can compete on both the high and low ends. 4. Can the shorts close their positions in Kohl's ? Shares of the retailer, which isn't doing as badly as a 49% short position would suggest, flew 37.6% yesterday. This morning, the meme traders are gunning GoPro and Krispy Kreme . Opendoor is lower again this morning after a major reversal yesterday. 5. Texas Instruments shares are down big after a suboptimal forecast and grumpy earnings call, unlike the previous one. Not sure why, but its order outlook is far worse than thought. That could hurt other industrial chip names like NXP Semiconductors and Onsemi . Wells Fargo goes to $195 a share from $216 on Texas Instruments. 6. Hilton beat on the top and bottom lines with earnings of $2.20 a share and revenue of $3.14 billion. It also raised its full-year earnings guidance. The stock dropped about 2% this morning. Not sure this is all that bad. 7. Megacap earnings tonight: Tesla and Google parent Alphabet . Tesla is transitioning from automaker into full-on tech company. For Alphabet, it turns out people just care about YouTube. It's been a strong stock lately. 8. The White House is readying an AI "action plan" designed to spur innovation and infrastructure. It's easing Biden-era rules. Really the opposite of the Biden administration entirely. 9. Enbridge was upgraded to buy from hold at Jefferies. Canada-based Enbridge is a good situation within the midstream segment of the oil-and-gas industry. One of my favorites. 10. Baird raised its price target on Stanley Black & Decker to $75 from $65, but kept a neutral rating on the stock. I think Club name Home Depot , a big seller of its power tools, is very undervalued. Sign up for my Top 10 Morning Thoughts on the Market email newsletter for free (See here for a full list of the stocks at Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust.) 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. Facebook and Instagram icons are seen displayed on an iPhone. Meta on Wednesday introduced new safety features for teen users, including enhanced direct messaging protections to prevent "exploitative content." Teens will now see more information about who they're chatting with, like when the Instagram account was created and other safety tips, to spot potential scammers. Teens will also be able to block and report accounts in a single action. "In June alone, they blocked accounts 1 million times and reported another 1 million after seeing a Safety Notice," the company said in a release. This policy is part of a broader push by Meta to protect teens and children on its platforms, following mounting scrutiny from policymakers who accused the company of failing to shield young users from sexual exploitation. Meta said it removed nearly 135,000 Instagram accounts earlier this year that were sexualizing children on the platform. The removed accounts were found to be leaving sexualized comments or requesting sexual images from adult-managed accounts featuring children. The takedown also included 500,000 Instagram and Facebook accounts that were linked to the original profiles. Workers leave the Department of Education building during a rain shower in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. The U.S. Department of Education has temporarily paused debt forgiveness under a popular repayment plan for student loan borrowers. In an FAQ on Studentaid.org, the department states that loan forgiveness for borrowers enrolled in the Income-Based Repayment plan is on hold while it responds to court orders. IBR is one of the department's income-driven repayment plans, also called IDRs. Congress created the first IDR plans in the 1990s to make student loan borrowers' bills more affordable. The plans cap people's monthly payments at a share of their discretionary income and cancel any remaining debt after a certain period, typically 20 years or 25 years. More from Personal Finance: Trump's 'big beautiful bill' slashes CFPB funding 78% say Trump's tariffs will make it harder to deal with debt Tax changes under Trump's 'big beautiful bill' in one chart IBR will be one of only a few repayment options left to millions of borrowers, after recent court actions and the passage by Congress of President Donald Trump's "big beautiful bill." That legislation phases out several income-driven repayment plans. Here's what to know about the delay in debt relief for IBR borrowers. From left, Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, talk as they arrive for a vote in the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Republican Sens. Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski are joining Democrats to back a new bill that would exempt millions of U.S. small businesses from President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods. The two-page bill, titled the "Creating Access to Necessary American-Canadian Duty Adjustments Act" which shortens to the CANADA Act comes as Trump threatens to slap a blanket 35% tariff on Canadian imports starting Aug. 1. The tariff threat is the president's latest salvo in an on-again, off-again trade war with America's longtime economic and political ally, which is the largest export partner for nearly three dozen U.S. states. "Imposing tariffs on Canada, Maine's closest trading partner, threatens jobs, drives up costs, and hurts small businesses that have long relied on cross-border cooperation and exchange," Collins said in a statement in support of the new bill. Murkowski in her own statement said, "I've heard loud and clear from small businesses in Alaska: tariffs are forcing prices to rise and making it difficult to plan long-term." "I'm hopeful this legislation sends a clear message to the administration that we want to continue this strong partnership by alleviating the effects of these tariffs on our small businesses," she said. The legislation introduced by Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., is cosponsored by five other Democrats including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Oregon's Ron Wyden, the Senate Finance Committee's ranking member. The bill targets the tariffs that Trump first announced on Feb. 1, a 25% blanket duty on Canadian goods imported to the United States and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy imports. If enacted, the legislation would make those tariffs inapplicable "with respect to goods imported by or for the use of small business concerns" as defined under federal law. The White House did not immediately respond when CNBC requested a comment on the bill and asked if Trump would consider signing it, should it make it to his desk. In a phone interview with CNBC on Wednesday, Welch said that other U.S. tariffs targeting Canada including Trump's threatened 35% duty will "all be on the table." The impact of Trump's tariffs goes beyond concerns that they will ultimately raise prices on U.S. consumers, Welch said. "Vermonters really love Canadians, and are very upset about what has happened to the relationships that many of our businesses have built up over the years," the senator said. Likewise, Canada "understandably is furious and hurt by the way they've been treated" by the U.S., and that has affected Vermont's hospitality industry, he added. Canadian travel to Vermont and the U.S. in general is reportedly down sharply so far this year. Trump said he imposed the Feb. 1 tariffs in response to Canada's alleged failure to stop the flow of drugs and crime over the U.S. northern border. But he quickly issued a 30-day pause on those tariffs, after then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to take steps to address Trump's concerns. In a March 2 executive order, Trump further amended the Canada tariffs by delaying the end of the so-called de minimis trade exemption, a carve out which allowed low-value goods shipments to enter the U.S. duty free. A glimpse into the Harvard University campus on May 24, 2025 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Trump administration continued building its multi-pronged case against American universities Wednesday, with the announcement of new investigations by the departments of state and education. The new probes are the latest in a months-long effort across the federal government to pressure elite colleges and universities to hew more closely to the administration's political priorities. The State Department announced Wednesday that it has opened an investigation into whether Harvard University is eligible to participate in its Exchange Visitor Program, a broad visa category that includes students, professors, working interns and other non-tourist visitors. The department did not offer a reason for the probe, such as a specific complaint, but it said in a statement that universities which sponsor exchange visitors are required to show a "demonstrated commitment to fostering the principles of cultural exchange and mutual understanding upon which the program was founded." The same day, the Department of Education announced unrelated investigations into whether five universities which offer special scholarships for undocumented students are "preferencing foreign-born students" over native-born ones. The University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University are the targets of the probe. "Neither the Trump Administration's America first policies nor the Civil Right Act of 1964's prohibition on national origin discrimination permit universities to deny our fellow citizens the opportunity to compete for scholarships because they were born in the United States," said the department's acting assistant secretary for civil rights, Craig Trainor. The probes are based on complaints submitted to the Office of Civil Rights by the Equal Protection Project of the Legal Insurrection Foundation, a conservative advocacy group. In a highly unusual step, the education department included a statement from the advocacy group in its official announcement of the probes. The OCR also said it was investigating additional scholarships at the schools that allegedly exclude other groups, including Western Michigan's scholarship for "African American, Native American, or Hispanic American" students and University of Louisville's scholarship for "LGBTQ+ students of color." Four of five universities did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A spokeswoman for the University of Michigan told CNBC, "The university has received a letter of notification relating to this matter. We have no further comment." U.S. President Donald Trump walks before signing the "Genius Act", which will develop regulatory framework for stablecoin cryptocurrencies and expand oversight of the industry, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., July 18, 2025. Attorney General Pam Bondi told President Donald Trump at a meeting in May that his name appeared multiple times in Department of Justice documents about sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday. The May date reported by the Journal was weeks before the DOJ's July 7 announcement that it would not release the Epstein files despite earlier promises by the attorney general, who leads the DOJ, and others in the president's orbit that the material would be disclosed to the public. The DOJ said Wednesday in a statement that Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche discussed the Epstein files with Trump as part of their "routine briefing" but did not specify the timing of the briefing. The Journal reported that the president was also told at the meeting that "many other high-profile figures were also named" in the Epstein files and that the "files contained what officials felt was unverified hearsay about many people, including Trump, who had socialized with Epstein in the past." Being mentioned in the Epstein records is not a sign of wrongdoing, the Journal noted. The DOJ's decision not to release the Epstein files sparked backlash from Trump's MAGA supporters, who have obsessed over conspiracies related to the Epstein case for years. In the face of that criticism from his political base, Trump last week directed Bondi to seek the unsealing of transcripts for grand jury proceedings related to federal probes of Epstein and his convicted procurer, Ghislaine Maxwell. US President Donald Trump speaks to the press at the end of a reception with Republican members of Congress at the White House in Washington, DC on July 22, 2025. U.S. President Donald Trump has now set his sights on trade negotiations with the European Union, after announcing a framework agreement with Japan. "We have Europe coming in tomorrow, and the next day, we have some other ones coming in," Trump said late on Tuesday, without specifying details. A European Commission spokesperson meanwhile said that EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic will speak with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Wednesday. "The EU's primary focus is on achieving a negotiated outcome with the US. Intensive technical and political level contact is ongoing," the spokesperson said. Pressure has ramped up on EU and U.S. negotiators to come to an agreement by Aug. 1, with the Trump administration appearing intent on not changing the timeline on tariffs again. Levies of 30% on U.S.-bound imports from the EU are set to come into effect next month, with countermeasures from Brussels potentially following soon after. The first tranche of retaliatory tariffs from the EU, which already target imports from the U.S. worth 21 billion euros, are currently on hold, while additional recourses are being prepared. But the U.S.-Japan agreement appears to have spread a positive sentiment among experts. "The Japan deal has significantly raised hopes that the EU might also be able to reach a trade deal," Deutsche Bank Research strategists and economists said in a Wednesday note. Katsuhiko Aiba, an economist at Citi, suggested in a separate note that the finer details of Japan's agreement with the U.S. could impact negotiations with the EU. "It is notable that auto tariffs were reduced without any cap on auto exports for a major auto exporting country, which may have implications for negotiations with the EU and South Korea," he pointed out. The U.S.-Japan deal includes a baseline tariff rate of 15%, with Reuters reporting that levies on autos will also be cut to this level down from the 25% currently in place. Carving out exemptions or lower rates for some key sectors has long been on EU's trade agreement wish list, with analysts expecting that the bloc could accept a baseline tariff in exchange for such sectoral provisions. Road vehicles are among the top three exports from the EU to the U.S., according to the European Council. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index was trading 1% on Wednesday, roughly an hour after markets opened, with autos jumping by around 3.5%. While Europe is eagerly awaiting updates on trade negotiations with the U.S., European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are travelling to Asia. They are set to meet Japanese leaders on Wednesday before the EU-China summit on Thursday, with trade likely at top of their agenda. Trump's protectionist trade policies are exacerbating existing tensions between the EU and China, experts told CNBC. They noted Beijing's concerns that the U.S. may pressure the EU to sharpen its stance on China. Sefcovic on Tuesday said in a post on X that he had "had an important video call" with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, without supplying further details. CNBC's Silvia Amaro contributed to this report. The Commerzbank AG headquarters, in the financial district of Frankfurt, Germany, on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. UniCredit on Wednesday posted a sharp second-quarter profit hike and lifted its full-year guidance, a day after withdrawing its takeover bid for Italian peer Banco BPM amid opposition from Rome. Italy's second-largest bank reported a 25% year-on-year hike in net profit to 3.3 billion euros ($3.87 billion) in the second quarter when including one-off items, and 2.9 billion euros without them. Net revenues dipped 4.7% year-on-year to 6 billion euros in the July quarters. UniCredit shares were up 4.36% at 11:00 a.m. London time (06:00 a.m. E.T.), with Banco BPM stock shedding 1.79%. Speaking to CNBC's Silvia Amaro on Wednesday, UniCredit CEO Andrea Orcel said the downswing in net revenues despite the profit uptick was the result of consolidating its share stake in German lender Commerzbank , among other items. Other second-quarter highlights included: Return on tangible equity hit 24.1%, compared with 22% in the first quarter. CET 1 capital ratio, a measure of bank solvency, was 16.2%, versus 16.1% in the March quarter. Net interest income the difference between revenues made on loans and interest paid on deposits dipped to 3.5 billion euros, down just 0.3% from the January-March stretch. UniCredit said it now expects full-year net profit to hit 10.5 billion euros, compared with previous guidance at 9.3 billion euros issued in the first quarter. It further anticipates it shareholder distributions will reach 9.5 billion euros over the full-year stretch, of which at least 4.75 billion euros will be in cash dividends. The bank's results come a day after it announced it was withdrawing its bid to acquire Banco BPM, whose offer period was due to naturally expire on Wednesday. UniCredit said the takeover attempt was impacted by the Italian government's exercise of its "golden power" rules, which enable Rome to intercede in transactions believed to impact national security and which Giorgia Meloni's government exercised to impose a spate of conditions to clear the transactions. This "prevented UniCredit from engaging with BPM's shareholders as a normal offer process would have allowed," UniCredit said Tuesday. An Indian man has been hospitalised following a racist attack by a gang, who partially stripped him and robbed his belongings, in the suburban region of Ireland's capital Dublin.The police have started the investigation in the matter, however, no arrests have been made so far. The man in his 40s had reportedly arrived in Ireland a few weeks ago.The incident happened on July 19, at Parkhill Road in Tallaght, a suburban area of Dublin. The Gardai (Ireland police) has started probing the matter, the local reports said."Gardai in Tallaght were alerted to an incident at Parkhill Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 on the evening of Saturday 19th July, 2025, at approximately 6 pm," the police was quoted as saying by news agency PTI, citing local media reports."Gardai attended the scene and a male, aged in his 40s was taken to Tallaght University Hospital with injuries, the statement added.The man has reportedly sustained injuries to his head, face, arms and legs.An eyewitness stated that the "racist gang" stripped he man and stole his bank cards, phone, shoes and trousers after assaulting him."I was driving to my mother-in-law when I saw 13 teenagers, including a woman, rounding up that man. I saw that the man was completely dripped in blood from his head to toes," she was quoted as saying by News18."His trousers were pulled down. He was whacked. His head was gashed due to a blade in the knuckles of those animals. And this attack happened at 6 pm in broad daylight," she added.The man asked for help, and she called the police and an ambulance after giving him first aid and a blanket. "They left him to die. The man gave me his name, his phone number and the address of his family in India," she stated.Akhilesh Mishra, India's Ambassador to Ireland, called for justice in the case while questioning the media coverage of the "alleged" violent attack."How can an ALLEGED assault cause such horrible injury & bleeding? Aghast at the insensitivity & obfuscation of RTE (Ireland's National Public Service Multi-Media Organisation)," Mishra wrote on X (formerly Twitter)."Hope the perpetrators are brought to justice," he added, while thanking the police and Irish people for their support to the victim. Cover image: You can embed an image, such as your business logo, that runs along the top of your document as a banner. Clicking this button opens a menu that lets you insert an image file stored on your PC, Google Drive, or Google Photos account, or you can search a stock image repository or enter a link to an image file online. You can also use Gemini to create an image: Select Generate an image and describe what you want it to create. To access this tool elsewhere in Google Docs: On the top menu bar, click Insert > Cover image. More: This button works the same as described above under a free or Business Starter plan, opening the Building blocks side panel. The Gemini sidebar Theres another way to interact with Gemini in Docs: Click the nova star icon at the upper-right corner (next to your Google account profile headshot) to open a Gemini side panel along the right. (If youre using a free or Business Starter plan, this side panel will show an ad for Gemini and a button you can click to start a trial.) The Gemini side panel in Google Docs. Howard Wen / Foundry You can use the Gemini sidebar for a variety of tasks, including brainstorming ideas, generating text, summarizing documents, creating lists, and more. See Google Workspace: 7 great ways to use the Gemini AI sidebar for detailed instructions and use cases for the Gemini side panel. Editing, Suggesting, and Viewing modes When you create or open a document, it is presented in Editing mode, in which you compose or edit your document normally. You can switch to two other modes: Suggesting mode: Changes to your document appear as colored suggestions that can be accepted or rejected. This mode mostly comes into play when youre collaborating with others; more on that later in this guide. Viewing mode: You cant edit the document, only scroll through and read it. Viewing mode can help you focus on reading through a document without being tempted to stop and edit it. You can also share a document with others in a way that limits them to Viewing mode; well cover that in the sharing section of this guide. To switch among these modes: Click the Editing mode pencil icon at the far right of the toolbar and make your selection. Alternatively, you can select View > Mode from the top menu bar. Switching to Suggesting mode. Howard Wen / Foundry Document tabs Along the left is the Document tabs side panel. (If you dont see it, click the Show tabs & outlines button at the top left.) Its a unique feature that lets you build interactive documents in two ways. Heading links Your document (whether its blank or already has content) is listed in this side panel as Tab 1. Click Tab 1 and it will expand down to list any headings that are in your document. When you click a heading in this side panel, your view in the main window will jump to that heading in your document. Youll find shortcuts to each heading in your document in the Document tabs side panel. Howard Wen / Foundry To add a heading to your document: On the toolbar above your document, click Normal text and from the drop-down menu, select a heading level (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.) and type in your heading. In the Document tabs side panel, you can rename Tab 1 by clicking the three-dot icon to its right. Multiple tab links You can also add more tabs, where each tab represents a separate section of the document that has its own content and formatting, and switch among them. For instance, you could have a project management document where one tab shows the project overview and goals, a second tab lists team members and their responsibilities for the project, a third tab is a timeline table, and so on. You could create a separate document for each of those items, but the tabbed setup keeps them more tightly tied together while allowing each section to retain its own unique purpose and formatting. A document starts with just one tab, called Tab 1 by default. To add a new tab (Tab 2), click the + next to Document tabs in the side panel. Your view in the main window switches to a new blank document area that you can put content on. When you create a new tab, it feels like youre starting a whole new document, but its still part of the same larger document. When you look at the top of the screen, youll see that the document title remains the same. You can click back and forth between these two tabbed sections of the document using the tab links in the Document tabs navigation. You can add and navigate to additional tabs the same way. You can switch between tabs in your document using the left navigation panel. Howard Wen / Foundry You can also add a subtab underneath another tab. In the Document tabs side panel, hover your cursor over the tab you want to attach a subtab to, click the three-dot icon that appears to its right, and from the menu that opens, select Add subtab. Youll quickly realize as you add tabs and subtabs that using the default names (Tab 1, Tab 2, etc.) isnt very helpful. To rename any tab to something more meaningful, click its three-dot icon, select Rename, and type in a new name. Links to headings across tabs You can insert a link in one tab that goes to a heading thats in another tab in your document. For example, a link in Tab 1 takes you to a specific heading in Tab 3. To create this type of link: Select a tab in the Document tabs side panel. In the main window showing the document, right-click on a heading. From the menu that opens, select Copy heading link. Now select another tab in the Document tabs side panel. In the main window, paste the link somewhere in the document. A long URL appears with a bar next to it that contains the title of your document. Click this bar or press the Tab key on your keyboard to insert the link in your document; it will appear as a capsule with your documents title in it. When you (or anyone youve shared your document with) click the capsule you inserted, a small bar opens showing the heading. Click it, and the view in the main window will jump to this heading in this other tabbed document. Click the MILESTONES link in the main document window to go to that heading on Tab 1. Howard Wen / Foundry Share your document Through Google Docs or Google Drive, you can share a document for others to view or edit. From the Google Docs screen where youre editing your document: Click the Share button at the upper right. Or, from the Google Drive home screen: Right-click the filename of your document and select Share > Share from the menu that opens. Either way, the Share pane opens. Sharing a document in Google Docs. Howard Wen / Foundry Google lets you share your document privately by inviting specific people to access it, or publicly, which means anyone with the link to it can open it. In most cases, business users will want to share their documents privately with specific colleagues. But there may be a few times when you need to share it publicly, such as when youre seeking public comments on a document. Note: In managed business environments, your administrators may limit your sharing options. For example, you might not be allowed to share a document link publicly or even share it privately with people outside your organization. Share your document privately (only certain people can access it) On the Share pane, type in the names or email addresses of the people you want to collaborate with on the document. The Share pane changes to a new view where you can add more people and change their access permissions for the doc. You can also type in a brief message to them. Setting permissions for a file being shared privately. Howard Wen / Foundry By default, every person you add is given Editor access to your document. You can change this by clicking Editor at the right of the invitees names and selecting another option from the dropdown that opens. Editor means they can change your document, add comments to it, and reshare it with other people. means they can change your document, add comments to it, and reshare it with other people. Commenter means they can view your document and add comments to it, but they cannot change it. means they can view your document and add comments to it, but they cannot change it. Viewer means they can view your document, but they cannot change it or add comments to it. Keep in mind that this setting applies to everyone youre currently inviting to the document. When youre done, click Send. Everyone youve added will receive an email with a link they can click to access the document. Change, limit, or revoke permissions You can change anyones permissions for a document at any time by reopening the Share pane for the document. It will list everyone who has access to the document. Click the dropdown next to their name to change their permission level or remove their access entirely, then click Save. You can also limit the overall permissions for a document somewhat by clicking the gear icon in the upper right of the Share pane: Unchecking the first box prevents others at the Editor level from resharing the document or changing other collaborators permission level. Unchecking the second box prevents anyone with Viewer or Commenter status from downloading, printing, or copying the document. Unchecking these boxes curbs some of the default permissions for editors, viewers, and commenters. Howard Wen / Foundry Set an expiration date Under a Google Workspace plan, you can also deny access to a person youve shared your document with on a specified date. Click the down arrow to the right of a collaborators name and select Add expiration. Then, to the right of Access expires, click the pencil icon and select an expiration date (and time if you want) on the pop-up calendar. It can be within one year of the current date. Setting an expiration date for a persons access to a document. Howard Wen / Foundry Share your document publicly (anyone can access it) At the bottom of the Share pane is a Copy link button that you can click to copy the link to your document. By default, this link is restricted to those you invite to the document. To change it to a public link: Click Restricted and select Anyone with the link from the dropdown menu. Changing permissions for a public link to a document. Howard Wen / Foundry By default, this link has Viewer access assigned to it. To allow anyone with the link to comment on or edit your document: Click the Viewer dropdown to the right and then select Commenter or Editor. After youve made your above selections, click the Copy link button. You can now paste this link to your document into an email, direct message, or document, or post it on a public forum or social media. Remember that anyone who sees and clicks this link will be able to access your document. To turn off the public link to your document, reopen the Share pane and click Anyone with the link. From the dropdown that opens, select Restricted. Then click the Done button. Status of your shared documents On your Google Drive or Google Docs home screen, your documents that are being shared either privately with others or as public links are marked by an icon of two silhouetted heads. (If you have the home screen of Google Drive set to Grid layout, this icon wont appear with the thumbnail or filename of a shared document.) The double silhouette icon to the right indicates that this is a shared document. Howard Wen / Foundry Collaborate on your document The people youve shared your document with can collaborate with you on it if theyve been designated as an Editor or Commenter. See How to collaborate on a document in our Google Drive collaboration guide for step-by-step instructions on how to add and review comments, edit a document, and collaborate on a document in real time. One thing that cant be stressed enough is how helpful it is if you and your collaborators use Suggesting mode. (Commenters will automatically be in Suggesting mode when they open the document, but Editors need to turn it on by clicking the pencil icon at the upper right and selecting Suggesting.) If multiple people make changes to your document in Editing mode, it can become difficult to keep track of who did what. Under Suggesting mode, though, each collaborators text additions appear in a different color. So if they add an image, the border of that image will be the same color as their text color. Anything they delete will have a strikethrough in their assigned color. Suggesting mode makes it easy to see who made each change to a shared document. Howard Wen / Foundry Note cards will appear to the right of your document; each shows a suggested change made to your document (and by whom and when the change happened). To accept the suggestion on a card, click the checkmark; to reject it, click the X. To view your document with or without all the edits suggested by your collaborators: Click Tools > Review suggested edits from the top menu bar. A box will open at the upper-right corner. To view your document with the suggested edits merged in, click the Show suggested edits dropdown and select Preview Accept all. To view without the suggested edits, select Preview Reject all. Reviewing suggested changes. Howard Wen / Foundry If you want to accept or reject all suggestions at once without going through them one by one, you can click the Accept All or Reject All buttons on this pane. Whenever your document gets a suggested edit by a collaborator, an updated tally appears next to its filename, or on the upper-right of its thumbnail, on your Google Docs or Google Drive home screen. Recover older versions of a document Mistakes happen, and you may want to undo changes you or others have made to a document. To look up older versions of an open document, click File > Version history > See version history. A panel opens on the right that shows a list of older versions of your document, organized by date and time. To see what an earlier version of the doc looks like, click its date or version name in the list. That version will appear in the main window. Viewing an earlier version of a document. Howard Wen / Foundry If you want to use this older version to replace the current version of your document, click the blue Restore this version button at the upper-left of the screen. This restored version will then appear at the top of the version history list. If you want to give an older version a unique name, click its date. Youll be prompted to type in words to replace the date. The versions date and time will then appear in smaller type underneath its new name. Download and export your document to Word or PDF You can download a document and convert it to PDF, .docx (if its not already a Word document), or another text format such as OpenDocument Format (.odt), Plain Text (.txt) or Rich Text Format (.rtf). With the document open, select File > Download from the top menu bar and choose a file format. The document will be saved to your PCs storage drive in that format. Downloading and converting a document to Word format. Howard Wen / Foundry Alternatively, you can select File > Email and then pick either Email this file or Email collaborators. This action will open a panel that lets you email your document as an attachment. PDF is the default, but you can click the PDF dropdown and choose Word or another format. A third option under File > Email is Email draft. This inserts the Email draft building block discussed earlier in the story. Use the Google Docs mobile app The Docs mobile apps for Android, iPhone, and iPad have a simplified interface to accommodate small touchscreens. Except for version history, the same features described in this guide are in the mobile apps. For example, through the Docs mobile apps, you can share documents (see How to use Google Drive for collaboration for instructions) and work on them with other people. This includes doing so under Suggesting mode. Toolbars along the top and bottom of the app let you take actions such as formatting text and inserting images or tables. Clicking the three-dot icon at the far right of the top toolbar opens more options including turning on Suggesting mode, running spell check, and sharing your document. Using the Google Docs Android app. Howard Wen / Foundry It can be tedious to work on a document on a small phone screen, but the Docs mobile app is handy for making quick edits or keeping up to date on changes to your document made by other people. Any changes you make to a document through the mobile app are automatically saved to your Google Drive. They will show up the next time you open the document from the Google Docs or Google Drive home screen in your PCs web browser. Use keyboard shortcuts Save time in Google Docs by using keyboard shortcuts to execute tasks. Below are some of the most useful shortcuts. For more, select Help > Keyboard shortcuts from the top menu bar in Google Docs, or see Googles extensive list of Google Docs keyboard shortcuts. Handy Google Docs keyboard shortcuts BASICS Action Chrome OS / Windows shortcut macOS shortcut Copy Ctrl-C -C Cut Ctrl-X -X Paste Ctrl-V -V Undo Ctrl-Z -Z Redo Ctrl-Y -Y Insert or edit link Ctrl-K -K Open link Alt-Enter Option-Enter Find Ctrl-F -F Find and replace Ctrl-H -Shift-H Select all Ctrl-A -A Insert comment Ctrl-Alt-M -Option-M Check spelling and grammar Ctrl-Alt-X -Option-X Open dictionary Ctrl-Shift-Y -Shift-Y Print Ctrl-P -P TEXT AND PARAGRAPH FORMATTING Action Chrome OS / Windows shortcut macOS shortcut Bold Ctrl-B -B Italicize Ctrl-I -I Underline Ctrl-U -U Numbered list Ctrl-Shift-7 -Shift-7 Bulleted list Ctrl-Shift-8 -Shift-8 Align text left Ctrl-Shift-L -Shift-L Align text right Ctrl-Shift-R -Shift-R Copy text formatting Ctrl-Alt-C -Option-C Paste text formatting Ctrl-Alt-V -Option-V Source: Google This article was originally published in May 2019 and most recently updated in June 2025. More Google Docs tips: FCC Chair Brendan Carr isnt right about much, but his assessment of the predicament isnt far off Youll never find me agreeing with Trump cronies. But even I can admit when someone isnt wrong. In the case of Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, his dubious response to the liberal reaction to Colberts cancellation was exactly that: not wrong. In a post on X, Carr wrote: The partisan lefts ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert is quite revealing. Theyre acting like theyre losing a loyal DNC spokesperson that was entitled to an exemption from the laws of economics. And while the jury is still out on whether CBS canned Colbert because of an alleged $40 million annual deficit, a desire to earn Trumps favor, or most likely a combination of both, the outcry over The Late Show ending has been apocalyptic. Jon Stewart cursed more than Tony Montana. Lin-Manuel Miranda and Weird Al Yankovic sang Viva La Vida to every nearly white man with a talk show on last nights episode of The Late Show. Democratic lawmakers have demanded an investigation into CBS. Every single major network late-night host has come out with a statement condemning the decision and mourning Colberts departure. Don't Miss Youd think Colbert had been shot in the street, not told he had 10 months left on late-night television. Thats why what Carr said is funny; it isnt because hes in the moral right or because what Trump is doing isnt scary. Trump asserting his will over mass media is scary. Trump and his billionaire associates buying up newspapers and television networks is scary. But a lot of what Trump is doing is very scary, and Ive yet to see Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper breach their network containment for cameos to stand up for Trumps attacks on immigrant communities or food-assistance budgets. Millions of people are now liable to lose life-saving access to healthcare in the coming months, and Weird Al Yankovic didnt give me a song about it. Theres a lot of ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert, and it really is quite revealing. Carr might be a fascist whose taste in ties is very 90s legal thriller, but in his desire to undermine the understandable fury that Trump is gaining yet another advantage in his quest for total dominance, he pointed out something important: This is getting a little embarrassing. Advertisement There can be no more musical numbers, no more 11-person rallies of multi-millionaires begging for free speech at a network studio, no more Democrats failing to stop some of the most harmful legislation in modern American history while tweeting about their favorite talk-show host. Were done with the circus. Stephen Colbert will live to see another day both literally and professionally. Colbert isnt Trumps last target or his most vulnerable. Colbert isnt even the only late-night show bullying Trump. Lets keep perspective people. Otherwise an asshat like Carr gets too close to sounding credible. And theres too much on the line for that to happen. Every other late-night stalwart has spoken out, but no one has heard from the current podcast host Theres been so much outcry about the cancellation of Stephen Colbert, its been hard to think about much else. David Letterman is speaking out. Jon Stewart is cursing up a storm. Seth Meyers is leaving the NBC studio. Both Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon have been put in Trumps crosshairs. Its a real star-studded affair. The only comedian who hasnt really joined the endless support train for Colbert is Rob Schneider. And yeah, fork found in kitchen. But suspiciously absent from the Weird Al musical numbers, Instagram statements and calls for Trumps resignation is one of late nights most prominent figures. In a tweet announcing the surprise guests for Colberts Monday night show, one person responded to the extensive lineup with the seemingly confusing question: what about the redhair? Any true fan knows that redhair is the one and only Conan OBrien. Don't Miss Since the news broke on July 17th, Conans social account posted one tweet: a promo for a podcast interview. Its like OBrien isnt scrolling through his news feeds, or watching Andy Cohen make a guest appearance on Colbert. Either way, after five days, his silence is notable. On Reddit, fans have stated that they hope Conan will make an appearance on the show before it ends (which, theres 10 months left, theres time). But in all of the urgency surrounding Colberts cancellation and the preceding controversy between Paramount, Donald Trump and Colbert, this many days without a comment feels like an eternity. Back in 2019, Colbert made an appearance on Conan Needs a Friend, and the duo spoke about bonding like brothers. And so, his absence from a Colbert taping can most probably be explained by location: OBrien is based in L.A., and The Late Show films at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City. Its less clear why OBrien hasnt released an Instagram Story or a Notes app screenshot. After all, weve heard from OBriens late-night collaborator, Andy Ritcher, and a slew of other Hollywood big shots. Advertisement Until he inevitably enters into the Colbert fray, heres a video of Conan with the late Ozzy Osbourne, doing an absolutely incredible bit about raising staff morale. The folks over at The Late Show could probably use something similar maybe Conan can stand in for Ozzy this time around. The thing is, Colonel Sanders, how many chickens you think he put to death? Late Night With David Letterman had only been on the air for two months when it demonstrated how it might do things a little differently than Johnny Carsons Tonight Show. While Carsons guests in late March 1982 included Walter Matthau, Shelley Winters and Scatman Crothers, Letterman was sitting down with Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne for an extended conversation. Osbourne, whose family announced his death this week at age 76, was never a guest on Carsons show, but Letterman welcomed him with open arms. You dont look like a madman, the comedian said by way of greeting. I can assure you I am, Osbourne replied, eyes darting around the studio. Don't Miss Enough with the formalities. Lets get to it, Letterman said. He wanted to hear about the legend of Ozzy biting the head off a bat during a live concert in Des Moines, Iowa. The story was true, Osbourne said, although it was a sheer accident. According to the rock star, a lot of weird people attended his concerts. One of those ticket-buying misfits threw a bat onto the stage during a performance. Osbourne claimed he mistook it for a toy, which doesnt exactly explain why he grabbed the thing and bit off its noggin. Suddenly everybodys freaking out because the real bat on stage goes, like, asleep, Osbourne said, even though most animals sleep with their heads still attached. Advertisement So Osbourne believed the bat was a toy, Letterman confirmed. Yeah, Ozzy replied, but I can assure you, the rabies shots that I went through afterwards arent fun. An innocent mistake? Maybe, but Letterman noted that it wasnt the first time Osbourne had bitten the head off a flying creature. Was it a pigeon? A dove? I was kind of peckish, Osbourne explained. There was a pigeon there. So I thought, well, nothing else but the pigeon. I mean, the pigeon didnt mind because he had no choice. Letterman squirmed, rethinking his original assertion that Osbourne didnt appear to be a madman. We dont want to spend all our time discussing you biting the heads off stuff, he said, but why would you want to do that? Advertisement Osbourne complained that everybody put him down for the practice. The thing is, Colonel Sanders, how many chickens you think he put to death? He didnt bite the heads off, but everybody else did. Advertisement In recent years, Osbourne had come to terms with the fact that bat-biting would be his rock-and-roll legacy after he passed. I know when I eventually do leave this place, it's going to be, Ah, the man who bit the head off the bat he joined the bat today, he told People in 2023. I mean, Ive achieved quite a lot in my life, but all people do is go, Ozzy, what do bats really taste like? Rick Derringer was living the rock-and-roll dream in 1973, riding a top 40 hit with his Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo after charting in the 1960s with his group the McCoys and Hang On, Sloopy. He parlayed that success into guitar gigs on albums for Steely Dan, Alice Cooper and Todd Rundgren. He was also a producer, masterminding Edgar Winter hits Frankenstein and Free Ride. But all that rock cred went out the window, he claimed, after he began working as a producer for Weird Al Yankovic. Its not that the partnership didnt pay off Derringer took home his only Grammy Awards for producing Yankovics hits, Eat It and Fat. But that success came at a cost. Derringer, who passed away earlier this year at age 77, ditched Yankovic after six albums, two Grammys and two stars on a Hollywood Walk of Fame. Hes done very well. But heres the bottom line: I thought that it would help my production career, he told Guitar Player in 2024, as reported by Parade. Suddenly I became known as a novelty producer. As much as I love Weird Al hes a good guy, very talented and a hard worker he single-handedly ruined my production career. Advertisement Advertisement Derringer said he didnt think anything of producing Yankovics music at the time, although his music producer peers raised eyebrows at the gig. A lot of people were like: Whats Rick doing? You know, I had a pretty good production career going for myself, so it didnt strike me as unusual to work with Weird Al, Derringer explained. I grew up in a family that liked novelty music. They had 78s of Spike Jones and stuff like that. As a business decision in a vacuum, hooking up with Weird Al was a slam dunk. After Derringer produced his first song for Yankovic, he asked if the comic musician had any more parodies they could record. (Spoiler alert: Yankovic had a ton of them.) I said we should do a whole album. I thought if we can make a success of his songs, it would have no competition. Because there wasnt anything like his stuff out at the time. Advertisement The result was the self-titled Weird Al Yankovic, an album sold to a start-up label that made it an out-of-nowhere hit. After Derringer hooked up with Weird Al, his subsequent producing career did have a novelty feel. His biggest success was likely the World Wrestling Federations The Wrestling Album and its rough-and-tumble follow-up, Piledriver: The Wrestling Album II. Cue the raised eyebrows from other rock producers. Advertisement Derringer walked away from rock entirely in his later years, becoming an Evangelical Christian and switching focus to recording Christian songs with his third wife, Jenda. He became heavily invested in conservative causes, appearing on InfoWars to promote a right-wing remake of Hulk Hogans theme song with new lines like, Best not mess with my U.S. Sounds like Derringer learned something about goofing on song lyrics from Weird Al after all. The UK government on Tuesday proposed an order that would forbid all government agencies and other government entities from making any ransom payments, regardless of circumstances. But security experts were skeptical that the measure would work in any meaningful way. The government statement, the result of a months-long public consultation, was explicit. Public sector bodies and operators of critical national infrastructure, including the NHS [National Health Service], local councils, and schools, would be banned from paying ransom demands to criminals under the measure, the statement said. It said that the proposed ban would not, for now, cover private companies, but that it would still require them to report their intention to make such payments. 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. Forgive me, but have I suddenly woken up in the 19th century? Have I fallen asleep and slid back in time to the days of corsets and smelling salts? Should I starch my lace doilies and cover up my chair legs in anticipation of a visit from the prude police? I cant be the only one who thinks that the hysterical global response to the Coldplay kiss cam couple has been completely disproportionate. What happened was embarrassing, yes; unfortunate, for sure; problematic and probably life-changing for those involved, very definitely. But do they really deserve to suffer the opprobrium of the entire planet? Seems a bit much over a middle-aged couple having a bit of a hug at a pop concert. Theyre not even snogging. And yet the way the pair Andy Byron, CEO of AI startup Astronomer, and Kristin Cabot, the companys chief people officer have been pilloried youd have thought theyd been caught in full Matt Hancock bottom-grabbing secretary-of-state flagrante delicto. Instead, a fleeting embrace, and the moral judgment of the entire world comes crashing down upon their heads. Has everyone gone completely mad? So what if hes not her husband and shes not his wife? So what if theyre having an affair, or even just thinking about having an affair (the footage is certainly no proof of anything beyond an obvious mutual affection)? Theyre both consenting adults. Theyre also not the first mid-life couple to stray, and they certainly wont be the last. Who knows what their intentions were, or the circumstances of their relationship? Judging by the reaction of one of the people they were with, another employee at the same company, it wasnt entirely a surprise. Then again, perhaps they just got carried away by the music (personally Coldplay tends to put me in a coma, but theres no accounting for taste). Perhaps it was a fleeting moment that both might have thought better of the next day. Or perhaps they had already decided to move on from their respective marriages. Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and colleague Kristin Cabot caught hugging during a Coldplay concert in Boston. 'Who knows what their intentions were, or the circumstances of their relationship?' writes Vine Point is, falling in love is not a crime, nor is falling out of love. Its just what humans do. Theres no need for everyone to gloat. Especially since most people will at some point in their lives find themselves in a similar situation, whether they care to admit it or not. Life is messy; love is messy. Marriage is complicated and challenging. People grow and change, and sometimes they dont grow together or in the same way however hard they work at it. Sometimes one is happy and the other is not. Sometimes they dont want the same things. Those who do are the lucky ones, or the clever ones, depending on your point of view. Either way, it never pays to be too smug; Cupids arrow can make a fool of even the most sober soul. Sometimes an affair is just a sexual distraction, sometimes its something more than that. At their age theyre both in their early 50s its also what tends to happen. Kids are grown-up, sex with your spouse is perfunctory (if at all) its one last adventure, one chance to feel alive again before you start cultivating asparagus and take up cold-water swimming. Its a cliche as old as time itself, of course. It might even be, if you believe in such things, a sin. But it is not yet a crime so heinous they should both be cast out by the entire world, a modern-day Adam and Eve condemned to eternal disgrace. And yet the man Byron has had to resign from his job, while her fate hangs in the balance. But why? What has his private life got to do with his work? Fair enough, she was his head of HR, so from a corporate perspective thats definitely a little awkward. But it hardly seems like a sackable offence. And whats with all the lawyer up and take him to the cleaners stuff directed at his wife? Of course, she has a right to feel betrayed and angry, but thats between them. Nothing to do with anyone else. I dont know when the world became so judgmental, but I do know that you shouldnt destroy a persons entire existence on the basis of a three-second film clip at a pop concert. Lets cut these people some slack, and let them and their shocked families get on with putting their lives back together. Blame PM when water bills rise How does the Prime Minister reconcile his environmental zeal for Net Zero with his governments plans to build huge AI data centres? Quite apart from the fact that AI will only end up enriching a bunch of tech bros in California while putting half the country out of work, it also consumes vast amount of energy and water, since all those banks of computers require vast cooling systems. An independent report predicts that water bills will rise by 30 per cent over the next five years to cope with extra demand. And who will pay for this madness? Why, us fools, of course. The words turkey and Christmas spring to mind. Wouldnt ministers be delighted if the pension age really did rise to 74? Given that the average life expectancy in the UK is around 80 (and falling), that would save an awful lot of cash. Who knows if Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson, who are starring together in a remake of The Naked Gun, really are an item or if their cracking chemistry is just for the cameras. But if its true, Im here for it. I cant imagine a more intriguing couple like a 21st-century version of Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller. Pamela Anderson plays Beth and Liam Neeson plays Frank in The Naked Gun On Monday, the House of Lords voted to oust the remaining hereditary peers. Its a great shame: not only are the hereditaries the only truly independent members in the Upper Chamber, but many have also done much good work over the years. If I were Kemi Badenoch, I would use my allocation of annual peerages (I think she gets six) to reappoint some of the most deserving instead of handing them out to the usual cronies. It would annoy the hell out of Labour (always fun) and it would mean that people like James Bethell, who has been focusing on improving online safety and in particular clamping down on access to online pornography for children, could continue their important work. Im glad for his sake that Vanessa Feltzs ex, Ben Ofoedu, has found happiness with his new wife, but theres no earthly justification for his bitchy remarks about the TV presenter. In an interview to coincide with his wedding last week, he claimed Ms Feltz stole the best years of [his] life and used him as eye candy. Perhaps someone should remind him that without her no one would have a clue who he was, much less care. You dodged a bullet there, Vanessa. Anti-Trump protesters are no doubt planning a variety of eye-catching stunts to coincide with the Presidents visit to Scotland at the end of this week. He will, of course, relish every second of the attention. If they really wanted to upset him they should just ignore him. Despite the fanfare, Meghan Sussexs Netflix show has failed to capture the imagination of viewers, not even breaking into the streamers top 300. It has even been outstripped by re-runs of Suits. Insiders now claim the couples $100million deal is dead. Meanwhile, negotiations between Prince Harrys people and the King continue. Coincidence? A Labour MP I spoke to recently is in despair at the Prime Minister. Hes insane, he told me. How can he say that? How can he honestly think theres huge amounts of spare housing? Its mad. Another MP was even more blunt. I want to scream, they said. The subject of their ire or the latest subject was Keir Starmers appearance at Mondays Liaison Committee with Parliaments Select Committee chairs. Asked where he was going to find the extra housing needed to support the rising tide of homeless and asylum seekers, Sir Keir breezily declared: Oh, there is lots of housing and many local authorities that can be used, and were identifying where it can be used. When the non-plussed chairman Dame Meg Hillier pressed him on precisely where all this spare accommodation was located, he frantically backtracked. He would write to her with the details, he said. Its a letter that is never going to arrive. Or even be written. The spare accommodation obviously doesnt exist. In reality, the nation is facing a housing crisis. And even if it wasnt, the idea that any spare housing stock could simply be handed over to refugees would be politically unsustainable. So in the aftermath of the Prime Ministers latest gaffe, his supporters embarked on what, by now, is the well-worn but thankless task of explaining away his blunder. There had been some confusion, they said. Others whispered he had been poorly briefed. One told me in a suitably conspiratorial manner: Its another example of how Downing Street isnt structured properly. He needs people in there who will stop this stuff happening. Ive heard all this before. Though it normally begins some time into a prime ministers second term of office. The critics begin to break cover. But they dont have the courage to openly attack what, in politics, is known as The Principal'. In other words, the senior politician who is actually in charge of things. So instead they turn their fire on his inner-circle. And one or two senior named aides. In recent weeks the subject of this briefing has been Keir Starmers chief of staff Morgan McSweeney. At one point the anger directed at him became so intense that it was described as nothing less than a desire for regime change. Keir Starmer does not have a problem with his inner circle. Or the structures within Downing Street. The real issue is Keir Starmer himself, writes Dan Hodges But within the alcoves and cloisters of Westminster other, less well known names are mentioned. Its a part of the political insiders ritual. Im told Starmer isnt happy with X. A lot of people are blaming Y for the latest screw up. Convention dictates these anonymous apparatchiks are not identified. But the reality, in this case, is that Keir Starmer does not have a problem with his inner circle. Or the structures within Downing Street. The real issue is Keir Starmer himself. There has long been a perception that the Prime Minister is not a good politician. Indeed, in the past he has attempted to trade off this, framing himself as someone who operates above the duplicitous cut and thrust of Whitehall. But it should not require a politician to understand the current parlous state of housing in this country. Or to realise the festering fury amongst the British people at the thought illegal migrants are being prioritised in the allocation of scarce and dwindling public resources. And the finger of blame certainly shouldnt be pointed at the Prime Ministers advisors when he cannot even get through a single sitting of the Liaison Committee without dropping such a spectacular clanger. But Keir Starmer is starting to develop form as someone who likes to throw his staff under the bus. The most blatant example was his interview a couple of weeks ago when he disowned his Island of Strangers speech. I wouldnt have used those words if I had known they were, or even would be interpreted as an echo of Powell, he says. I had no idea and my speechwriters didnt know either, he told the Observer. This is classic Starmer. Shine the spotlight on the staff, whilst pretending youre protecting them. In a separate interview he said my rule of leadership is, when things go well you get the plaudits; when things dont go well you carry the can. I take responsibility for all the decisions made by this government. I do not talk about staff and Id much prefer it if everybody else didnt. When chairman Dame Meg Hillier pressed Starmer on precisely where all this spare accommodation was located, he frantically backtracked In recent weeks, anger from critics over the Government has been directed at Starmer's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney Funny then, that today there has been another briefing. According to Bloomberg, Keir Starmer has asked to be involved in policy-making earlier and to be given more detail following the welfare debacle, as allies say a cultural issue was developing in No 10 where the PM was bounced into decisions. Poor Keir. If only those pesky officials and staffers didnt keep bouncing him into delivering speeches he hadnt properly read, or policies he hadnt properly scrutinised. The truth is Downing Street is now starting to resemble Joe Bidens White House. For years the ailing US presidents advisors had to scramble around covering up their charges growing infirmity. And now No 10 advisors have to engage in the same exercise, attempting to explain, rationalise and justify Keir Starmers blunders. The issue is not, as the Prime Ministers allies would have people believe, that he is not furnished with sufficient detail to enable him to effectively run the country. Its that hes congenitally useless at it. If the Prime Minister cannot spend an hour sitting in front of half a dozen MPs without needing to be spoon-fed like a child the information Britain is suffering a housing crisis, he has no business being in the job. If he genuinely cannot deliver a speech without having properly read it first, and processed its contents, he should not be allowed anywhere near a podium containing the Government crest. If he is genuinely attempting to drive through policies that he doesnt understand then he should step down, and hand his position to someone who can understand them. Harry Truman famously had a sign strategically positioned on his White House desk that read The Buck Stops Here. Keir Starmer may as well have one that states I Have No Idea What This Sign Says, It Was Written By Someone Else And I Havent Bothered To Read It. Keir Starmers first year in office has been a disaster. And thats not because of his aides. Its not because of his officials. Its not because of his speechwriter. Its because of Keir Starmer himself. And a real prime minister would have the dignity, courage and self-awareness to recognise it. An American mother living in the UK has revealed three things that she finds shocking about the British school system. Molly, who goes by @strangecapers on TikTok, where she has almost 50,000 followers, moved to Birmingham, England, from Texas, US, and frequently posts about the cultural differences between the two countries. In a recent post, the mother identified three features of UK schooling that she finds 'wild' as an American. Taking to TikTok, the US-born mother was shocked that 'free' schools in the UK might be religious, expressed surprise at the 'formal' uniforms worn by children and noted that far more pupils are able to walk to school than in the States. Molly's first 'shock' was that, in the UK, 'schools the public can attend for free can be religious'. Clarifying that 'state schools' in the UK are the equivalent of 'public schools' in the US, she said: 'A school that's designated for the public - not a private school - can give priority to students based on religion.' She added: 'The idea that If you want to go to school in your neighbourhood but you can't get in because kids from further away will have priority because they belong to the faith of the school blows my American mind.' Branding faith schools 'fascinating', Molly appeared to believe that such institutions 'discriminate on the basis of religion', something that would never happen in her home country. Molly (pictured) goes by @strangecapers on TikTok, where she has almost 50,000 followers The mother took to the platform to share three things that she found 'wild' about the British school system The American mother was also surprised by the prevalence of school uniforms in the UK. She acknowledged: 'I know the statistics are overwhelming - like 95 per cent of schools in the UK wear school uniforms - and it's so embedded in the culture to wear school uniform.' Yet, it's 'much less normalised' to wear a uniform in the US, she added. Laughing, she joked: 'Smart shoes... the very formal nature of going to school is new to me.' The third thing in Molly's list was, however, something that she said she's 'really excited' about. She elaborated: 'The number of children in the UK that can walk to school is just so much higher than in the US. 'The idea that you could walk to school is just, like, so exciting to me.' Adding that she was genuinely 'thrilled' that her child will have the opportunity to walk to school, Molly ended the video on a positive note. For the most part, TikTok users failed to share in the American mother's excitement, instead focusing on her two previous points. TikTokers largely disagreed with Molly's characterisation of faith schools in the UK A number of TikTokers took the opportunity to share their own experience of attending faith schools, defending this particular feature of the British school system. One commenter said: 'Don't worry Mrs American, if you're in a religious school they will still accept people not of that faith. 'I went to a Christian school and only around 20 per cent of the students were Christian.' Another said: 'When we see US kids pledging allegiance every morning, that blows our UK minds.' A third person sought to give further insight into the British school system, adding: 'They can be religious. They aren't really, though. There is a school near me called the "Church" in "place name". Not a single person who attends is religious.' A fourth said: 'They don't really discriminate based on religion though - you will see children of all faiths at a Christian-based school. Sometimes, it's the only choice in the catchment area.' A fifth recalled: 'I went to a Christian school while not being religious. Most of my friends weren't religious. I'd say it was 50/50.' Someone else sought to reassure Molly by writing: 'My kids both went to a Catholic school. We are atheist - no issue getting either [child] into this school'. Molly's post has opened up debate about the differences between UK and US school systems (stock image) Other people were more sympathetic to Molly's critique of the UK school system Others, however, appeared to share the American mother's dismay that some state schools in the UK have a religious leaning. One person said: 'Really hate how they're allowed to indoctrinate children. Even state schools in Scotland have mandatory religious observance that has to be opted out of.' While a second agreed: 'I completely agree that it's insane that in a basically secular country, we have state-funded religious schools. Religion has no place in education full stop.' A third person was more lighthearted when they commented: 'Also, many non-Church schools still have hymn practice at assembly in the morning - which I've never thought of as weird but upon reflection, it probably is a little!' Others still sought to defend the UK's uniform policy, with one person explaining: 'Uniform stops kids with less money standing out from kids that have expensive designer clothes, so they're less likely to be made fun of.' The same TikTok user added: 'Also good for discipline and standards'. A second person agreed: 'I was always told that one of the reasons we had to wear uniforms was to stop discrimination against people who are poorer based on their clothes'. Princess Anne is often regarded as the 'hardest working' member of the royal family, and Prince William, the future King, no doubt admires his aunt's devotion to the monarchy. But perhaps their work goals differ ever-so slightly - as several sources claiming to be close to the Princess Royal, 74, told The Sunday Times that the King's sister would like to see her nephew do more 'bread-and-butter' royal engagements. For instance, only the monarch, Princess Anne and Prince William perform the investitures, the formal ceremonies where those who have been awarded a royal honour receive their insignia. Many of these take place at Windsor Castle, near the Prince of Wales' home of Adelaide Cottage. A source close to Princess Anne told the publication: 'Shes still doing most of the investitures [at Windsor] even though William lives there. It annoys her.' The Royal Family's official website notes that around 30 Investitures are held each year, with over sixty recipients attending each ceremony, either in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace, or in the Grand Reception Room at Windsor Castle. 'Investitures also happen occasionally at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, or overseas during State or Royal visits,' adds the site. 'Investitures are hosted by The King, The Princess Royal and The Prince of Wales.' Elsewhere in The Sunday Times article, published ahead of the royal's 75th birthday, it was revealed that Princess Anne's injuries after suffering a concussion last year were 'much worse' than the public knew at the time. Princess Anne is often regarded as the 'hardest working' member of the royal family, and Prince William (both pictured in June 2025), the future King, no doubt admires his aunt's devotion to the monarchy The Princess Royal was admitted to intensive care last June with concussion and head injuries after reportedly being kicked by a horse at her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire. She was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for tests, treatment and observation, before returning to duties that July. Now, a source said to know Anne well has told The Sunday Times that her accident was 'so much worse' than initially revealed at the time. They said: 'Her accident was so much worse than anyone let on and it took quite a while for her to feel herself again.' Following her accident, Anne was forced to miss at least nine engagements, including a trip to Canada and a banquet for the Japanese State Visit in London. When Anne returned to work in July, she was seen sporting a black eye. Prince William and Kate shared a rare personal message on X/Twitter, writing: 'Super trooper! So great to see you back so soon. W&C x.' The royal, a skilled horsewoman who competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympics, was going for a walk when the incident occurred. William, Kate and Anne stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to view a flypast to mark the centenary of the Royal Air Force (RAF) on July 10, 2018 in London Princess Anne, Prince William and the Princess of Wales at Windsor Castle, on September 06, 2023 The Princess Royal is often regarded as the 'hardest working' member of the royal family. Last year, Anne clocked up 474 engagements, with King Charles completing 372. She has been a cornerstone in the King's slimmed-down working monarchy, and has played a big role by stepping up in support of Charles amid his cancer diagnosis. The Princess is known for her no-nonsense approach and her commitment to royal duty, and the King made a point of making public his 'fondest love and well-wishes' for his sister after her accident. Anne was understood at the time to have been taking an evening stroll on her estate with horses nearby when she was hurt. The Princess was left with minor wounds to the head. Her medical team are understood to believe the injuries were consistent with a potential impact from a horse's head or legs. In January, speaking out about the accident for the first time, Anne said she remembers 'nothing' about it. Talking at the Grand Military Cup Day at Sandown Park Racecourse in Esher, Surrey, after a whirlwind trip to South Africa, Anne revealed that she was on the way to see chickens on her estate when the accident happened. When questioned whether the last thing she recalled was walking into a field, Anne said: 'No, I don't even remember that. Princess Anne 's injuries after suffering a concussion last year were 'much worse' than the public knew at the time, it has been revealed. Pictured in July 2024 The royal, a skilled horsewoman who competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympics , was going for a walk when the incident occurred. Pictured in January 'I know where I thought I was going and that was to go to the chickens, no, nothing to do with horses.' She added that seeing the chickens was 'my regular visit, I don't have any idea what I was doing in the field, because I never normally went that way. 'It just... shows you - you never quite know, something [happens], and you might not recover.' Anne spent five nights in hospital after the accident on June 23 and did not return to public royal duties until almost three weeks later. Asked about any lasting ill effects, she lightened the mood and joked: 'Apparently not, at least I don't think so. As far as I know, nobody else thinks so - they haven't been honest enough to tell me yet. So far so good.' She added: 'You are sharply reminded that every day is a bonus really.' Interviewed after a whirlwind two-day tour of Cape Town, Anne also discussed her future and was asked whether retirement was an option, she replied: 'It really isn't written in, no. It isn't really an option, no, I don't think so.' Her father, the late Duke of Edinburgh, did retire from royal duties in 2017, but he was 96 when he took the decision and had supported Queen Elizabeth II for more than 65 years at the time. Anne is known for her busy work schedule, and as she approaches her 75th birthday in August, the royal will continue to lead the monarchy in various engagements. The Princess Royal during the Trooping the Colour ceremony at Horse Guards Parade in June 2023 She carried out her first public engagement in 1969 aged 18 when she opened an educational and training centre in Shropshire, and a year later, she began her longest association with a charity, becoming president of Save the Children and later patron. Anne has two children - Peter Phillips, 47, and Zara Tindall, 44 - from her first marriage to Captain Mark Phillips, before their divorce in 1992. She has been married to Sir Timothy Laurence since December that year. Anne said: 'I don't think there's a retirement programme on this particular life. You're jolly lucky... if you can continue to be more or less compos mentis and last summer I was very close to not being.' She added: 'Take each day as it comes, they say.' Last month royal fans praised Anne's unwavering dedication to royal duties as she joined the King's birthday parade on horseback - one year after being hit in the head by a horse. A man has been sentenced to life for the murder of his wife after gardai found footage of the incident on a phone he set up to spy on her, a court has heard. The father-of-two, who inadvertently recorded stabbing his Ukrainian wife to death, told paramedics and gardai at the scene she was having an affair and he freaked out after seeing something on her phone about sex. Stephen Mooney, 53, was yesterday sentenced at the Central Criminal Court to the mandatory term of life imprisonment for the murder of his 43-year-old wife Anna Mooney (nee Shuplikova). At the hearing, Mooney took the stand to apologise to his wifes family and their children. He had pleaded guilty earlier this year to his wifes murder. This came after gardai hacked into his phone and discovered video footage of the build-up to the killing and an audio recording of the murder itself. Outlining the evidence, Detective Sergeant Basil Grimes told prosecutor Desmond Dockery SC that Mooney called emergency services at 1.09am on June 15, 2023. He reported a person had been stabbed at his home on Kilbarrack Road, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, and when asked who did it, he replied: I did. A Dublin Fire Brigade officer was first on the scene and found Mooney kneeling over his wifes lifeless body, speaking to emergency services on the phone. She had a knife lodged in her chest. A MAN has been sentenced to life for the murder of his wife after gardai found footage of the incident on a phone he set up to spy on her, a court has heard. Pictured: The victim, Anna Mooney, 43 The father-of-two, who inadvertently recorded stabbing his Ukrainian wife to death, told paramedics and gardai at the scene she was having an affair and he freaked out after seeing something on her phone about sex. Pictured: Anna and Stephen Mooney The defendant told the paramedic: Ive killed her... Shes my wife. This has been going on for years. Im really sorry, shes been having an affair. A garda took a note of Mooney saying: Shes having an affair, it got out of control, I tried to save her, everyones lives are ruined. He added: Its awful, Im sorry to put you through this. I saw something on her phone about sex and everything else and freaked out. He later said: There is no suspect. I am the guilty one. Theres nothing worth this. Detective Garda Jeanette ONeill carried out a technical exam of the home and found blood pooling on a couch and blood spatter on the wall behind it. Ms Mooney was lying on her back on the kitchen floor when paramedics arrived. Pathologist Dr Sallyanne Collis said the stab wound to Ms Mooneys chest tracked to 13.3cm and pierced the heart, diaphragm and abdominal cavity. The knife had a 16cm single-edged blade. There were stab wounds to the lower left side of her back, the left upper arm and further incised wounds to her left hand and arm. She had quite a considerable amount of alcohol in her system. The pathologist concluded death was caused by multiple sharp force injuries. Det Sgt Grimes said that weeks before Mooney was to go on trial this year, gardai accessed his phone for the first time using updated software that allows phones to be hacked, even when they are protected by a PIN code. At his sentencing hearing, Mooney took the stand to apologise to his wifes family and their children. Pictured: Gardai outside the crime scene in Dublin Analysis of the phone found a 90-minute clip which included footage of the murder, he said. He added that Mooney can be seen leaving the room where the murder happens and returning with the weapon. The moment when Ms Mooney died was off-camera, but the audio records all events leading to her death. Det Sgt Grimes said the video goes quiet before Mr Mooney can be seen returning to the kitchen where he drinks three glasses of water and runs water over his hands while making the 999 call. The detective said it appears Mooney had set the phone to record in an elevated position with a view of the kitchen table. Detectives believe he set it up that way to record his wife entering her PIN into her phone so he could then take it and find out who she was contacting. The recording was still running when Mooney attacked his wife. The detective confirmed that Mooney has worked as an estate agent and has no previous convictions. Under cross-examination, he agreed with defence counsel Michael Bowman SC that Ms Mooney moved to Ireland from Ukraine in 2004 and the pair married in 2005. They have two children. Det Sgt Grimes agreed the investigation had confirmed that Ms Mooney was having a relationship with a man in Germany. Following the detectives evidence, Mooney took the stand to apologise to his wifes family. I am truly sorry for what happened that night, he said. It is the burden I go to bed with every night and wake up with every day. I loved Anna. He finished by saying: I wish to apologise to my kids for the terrible suffering I have caused everybody. I hope one day everybody will be able to forgive me. Judge Paul McDermott imposed the mandatory sentence of life imprisonment. He said that he has no discretion in sentencing and that Mooneys future will be determined by a parole board. Abigail Alexander was 18 when an explosion left her with burns all over her body An American woman has revealed her miraculous recovery from a horror gas station explosion almost six years ago after the accident led to 40 per cent of her body being covered in third-degree burns. Abigail Alexander, from Ohio, was just 18 when she and a British friend were caught up in the blast while riding a motorcycle together in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The young women, who were teaching in the country at the time, were almost killed when a fuel station burst into flames as they made their way to work. A tanker truck carrying 440 gallons of petrol had ignited while delivering the fuel to a storage tank, injuring 13 people, including Abbey and 22-year-old Zoe Eleftheriou from Medway, Kent. Shocking pictures showed Abigails body covered in bandages and severe burns in the aftermath of the explosion in August 2019. Since then, Abbey, now 23, has been documenting her physical transformation on her social media platforms as well as Reddits Made Me Smile channel and recently shared her latest photographs taken nearly six years after the life-altering accident. 'Almost six years post burn!!' she triumphantly captioned her post, which included six photos that showed how far she'd come from 2019, when she was rushed to hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries. The first snap showed Abbey wrapped up in bandages while trying to walk with the help of a doctor while the second image depicted her lying in a hospital bed while hooked up to an IV pole. An American woman has revealed her miraculous recovery from a horror gas station explosion almost six years ago after the accident led to 40 per cent of her body being covered in third-degree burns Abigail Alexander, from Colorado, US, was just 18 when she and a British friend were caught up in the blast while riding a motorcycle together in Siem Reap, Cambodia Since then, Abbey, now 23, has been documenting her physical transformation on her social media platforms as well as Reddits Made Me Smile channel and recently shared her latest photographs taken nearly six years after the life-altering accident. Her hair is cut short and her face - covered with burns - is visible. Abbey, who has been praised for her positive attitude and sense of humour despite the tragedy, also posted a selfie taken in hospital hat showed her bravely smiling through her treatment. She posed in a black swimsuit and pair of denim shorts in the fourth photo that showed scarring on her arms and legs as Abbey held up a fish she presumably caught while on holiday. Abbey included a snap of her firstborn after she and her partner, Austin Michael, welcomed their baby daughter last November. The sixth and final photo was a selfie that showed Abbey had minimal facial scarring, as her caption read: 'On a Reddit kick tonight and decided to post my yearly update to my favourite subreddit [MadeMeSmile]'. Her heartwarming post led to a flurry of comments as Reddit users celebrated how far she'd come from the accident in Cambodia in 2019, with one person writing she looked 'amazing'. 'Are you the one that was on a moped in Cambodia and a gas station exploded that you were driving past?! If so omg you look amazing!' their message read. A critical care nurse with experience treating large surface area burns said: 'We never get to see this. Social media users praised her as an 'absolute legend' and an 'effing warrior' in the comments section, with one person noting: 'Some of the toughest people have never battled what you have and come out the better. She is seen here after the accident in 2019 Abbey is now bravely using her recovery experience to inspire and help other burns survivors 'When we send patients out of the [Intensive Care Unit], they still look like you did in the first picture. 'We take care of them for months sometimes, then they move onto the next level of care. I almost didn't look at your pictures, but I'm glad it did. It warmed my heart a bit.' Social media users praised her as an 'absolute legend' and an 'effing warrior' in the comments section, with one person noting: 'Some of the toughest people have never battled what you have and come out the better.' Speaking to MailOnline in 2023, Abbey reflected on her recovery as she declared 'I didn't only manage to survive, I thrived'. Recalling the events of August 14, 2019, Abbey said she and her colleague Zoe were 'instantly burned' in the inferno before she was 'ran over by a car'. The British and American teachers were the only foreigners injured in the blast, which also seriously wounded 11 locals. Both women's families faced huge medical bills and they had to receive treatment before being able to return home. Abbey said she knew the road to recovery would be long and difficult after doctors told her nearly half her body was covered in third-degree burns - a prognosis that could be fatal if not treated properly. Abbey, who has been praised for her positive attitude and sense of humour despite the accident Unfortunately, her early recovery in Cambodia did not go as smoothly as might be hoped. The first clinic she went to put her in ice water, which she says she has since learned worsens burns. She also claimed medics drilled an IV into her bone without any pain medication. Her injuries were so severe she had to be intubated, she said. 'I spent a long few weeks on the ventilator, I even managed to pull out my breathing tube at one point. 'I struggled with hallucinations and 'false memories' and it took a long time for me to be able to decipher what was real and what was not.' She said getting home from the southeast Asian country was a trial in itself. 'Getting a medivac plane that could handle flying 23 hours was a challenge in itself but the state department did an amazing job at getting that accomplished.' She went on to be treated by a team of doctors at the Denver UC health burn unit, who she credited with helping her incredible physical recovery. But that was only half the story; the accident also dented her self-esteem as Abbey went from being 'an 18-year-old who thought she was invincible to being covered in burns, head shaved, and unable to even go to the bathroom' without assistance - all in the blink of an eye. Four years later, and with the support of her friends and family, Abbey had transformed into a 'burnt bad b****' with a voracious appetite for life. She has also continued to use her recovery experience to inspire and help other burn survivors. 'I am now active in the burn survivor community where I try and encourage others with my story,' Abbey said at the time, adding: 'I try to constantly live every day like it could be my last.' The following year, Abbey - who is originally from Miamisburg, Ohio but has since relocated to Glendive, Montana - said she was engaged to her long-term boyfriend Austin Michael, pregnant and 'happier than ever' in a post on Reddit. 'Almost 5 years post burn! Didnt know how Id ever live a normal life or be happy again. Now Im engaged, pregnant, and happier than ever.' A 101-year-old woman has shared the shocking ways that doctors treated ear infections when she was young - long before the introduction of antibiotics. These days, if someone gets sick they head to the doctor, get a prescription for some medicine, and usually feel better within a few days. But back in the 1920s, treatment for common ailments was very different. Anita Astor, who was born in 1924, from the UK, recently opened up about the horrific ordeal that she was put through after she developed an ear infection as a toddler. She explained in a recent TikTok video shared by her grandson, James Marsh, 42, that she had to get a procedure known as a mastoid operation that involved doctors drilling a hole into her skull to stop it from spreading to her brain. She explained in the now-viral clip, which was viewed over three million times, that she underwent the surgery, which is done to remove infected tissues from the mastoid bone located behind your ear, once at age two and again at age five. 'In those days, the infection would go into your brain and you'd be finished in a few weeks,' she said in the TikTok. 'So if they wanted to save your life, they had to make a hole - I've got a hole literally in my head.' Anita Astor, 101, went viral after she opened up about the shocking ways that doctors treated ear infections when she was young in a TikTok shared by her grandson James Marsh James (seen), 42, spoke with the Daily Mail about it, and he said his grandma got a procedure in which doctors drilled a hole into her skull to stop the infection from spreading to her brain While speaking exclusively with the Daily Mail about it, James explained that his grandmother told him that to make matters worse, the anesthetic used during surgery wasn't as strong then as it is now. 'The anesthetic was terrible, it wasn't like you went to sleep and you woke up after you had been operated on,' he shared. 'My grandma said there were lots of whizzing and banging sounds - you were part conscious during operations. 'It was a terrible thing and highly traumatic for her. But this was the norm back then.' While she was recovering in the hospital James told the Daily Mail that his grandmother said she was treated 'like dirt' because her family was poor. She recalled her parents being 'interrogated' about 'how much they earned and if they owned a house or a car' to determine how much they've have to pay. 'The pressures on poor people at the time was really intense. Her mother and father were refugees from Russia,' he continued. 'It wasn't just seeing their child sick, it was also the financial stress. If you didn't have money you couldn't get access to medical services. James explained that his grandmother (seen) told him that to make matters worse, the anesthetic used during surgery wasn't as strong then as it is now so she was awake 'She said they treated like dirt, she wasn't treated like a human being at all, but more like a thing.' Anita told him that during her recovery, the nurses would come in every morning and change the dressing on her surgery site, and she said it was extremely painful. 'The nurses would just rip off the bandage, most didn't care and weren't very kind,' he dished to the Daily Mail. 'They'd give her their fist to bite on [to stop her from screaming] because I imagine there were no painkillers either.' Despite getting two surgeries, Anita said she spent years struggling with the effects from the ear infection. But finally, in her 20s, antibiotics became readily available, which she described as a 'miracle.' 'Antibiotics were reserved for soldiers at first, they weren't given out to the general public until the war finished,' James explained. 'Her ear was still giving her trouble in her 20s - she was two and a half when it started and in her 20s she was still having problems from her infected ear.' But when her doctor finally gave her antibiotics it 'cleared up' within days, and she 'never had any problem again.' These days, if someone gets sick they prescription for some medicine and usually feel better within a few days. But when Anita was young, there weren't any antibiotics (stock image) In more TikToks, Anita spoke in detail about other things that differed during her child compared to life now. She explained that there weren't any diapers back then so they had to use cloth diapers on babies, which had to then be washed by hand every day. She said laundry machines were extremely different, and involved placing the dirty clothes into a hot boiler. The boilers left 'soot' over everything in the house, which meant they were forced to clean relentlessly. 'You had to work for everything,' she reflected. She joked that she 'couldn't get over it' when they released the first dishwasher, branding it as a true 'treasure' and 'one of the most wonderful things' on Earth. 'But I'm always worried something's going to get cracked in there,' she joked. For some, the party don't stop. Shaun Jackson - the 'rave guy' who went viral for his eyepopping moves - is one such person. The wide-eyed northerner may have been cutting shapes at a Preston night club over a decade ago but the immortalised dancer was spotted at Tomorrowland, enjoying himself just as much. In a bright yellow T-shirt and a bustling crowd, Mr Jackson was dancing along to Charlotte de Witte, a techno DJ at the Belgian music festival. Specialising in electronic dance music, Mr Jackson would have felt right at home. Then some 40 years old, Mr Jackson was first captured in promotional footage for the Rumes bar in 2014 cutting shapes on the dance floor. The clip soon amassed hundreds of thousands of views - also catapulting the obscure night club where he raved the night away into international fame. While the party-goer has continued his love for a good time over the years, spotted at several dance events, he has also been spending time his grandchildren. Shaun Jackson - the 'rave guy' who went viral for his eyepopping moves - was spotted at Tomorrowland cutting similar shapes In a bright yellow T-shirt and a bustling crowd, Mr Jackson was dancing along to Charlotte de Witte, a techno DJ at the Belgian music festival The most recent clip of him dancing, Mr Jackson's moves were met with mixed response. One person wrote 'this is kind of sad' and another said 'beyond borrring now'. But others welcomed his fun-loving spirit, with a user writing 'proper old school raver, keep up with those disco biscuit dancing skills' and one person adding 'f***ing legend he is alive and enjoying! Respect!'. In one of his most recent Instagram posts - dated August 2023 - Mr Jackson poses shirtless with his tongue stuck out during a trip to Ibiza. Since then, Mr Jackson has uploaded elsewhere - on his TikTok - with one of the latest videos being a bizarre clip captioned 'on my wedding day', from May 2024. In it, the Chorley local, wears what appears to be a teal-coloured dress as he gestures over at a woman dressed in a white gown, who initially has her back turned to the camera. The video has elicited comments such as 'you are too funny! love it!' and 'still going strong'. There are number of videos also posted by Mr Jackson from 2023 where he makes expressive faces at the camera and, in his job as a plasterer, shows off some of construction work. Shaun Jackson, then some 40 years old, was captured in promotional footage for the Rumes bar in 2014 smiling and cutting shapes on the dance floor Mr Jackson pictured on a day out with the lads in Ibiza Mr Jackson uploaded a picture in January 2022 of him in Benidorm - though when asked when he'd visited, he said the snap was from last year Mr Jackson poses in Benidorm with a mask in a photo uploaded August 2020 Mr Jackson previously said his only regrets were there had been not one filming when things got wilder as the night went on Though, in a sweet clip captioned 'day in the park with the grandkids', he waves his arms about before a grandson spins him round and round in the park play area, with the northerner growing increasingly red. In his 2019 interview with Flexxed, Mr Jackson previously revealed he'd gone out with 'three-quarters of a bottle of Vodka already down by neck and then three or four drags of real good MD (MDMA)'. He also made headlines in 2022, when spotted at the Glastonbury Music festival and even had an action figure made in his honor that same year. The former boxer also once told BuzzFeed he was delighted with his fame and while on a weekend shopping trip 'everyone started clapping and cheering'. Mr Jackson previously said his only regrets were there had been no one filming when things got wilder as the night went on. More and more conservative stars are beginning to turn on Texas after leaving New York and California. Joe Rogan was the first big star to make the move, with the podcasting titan fleeing Los Angeles and moving his family into a $14 million mansion in Austin in 2020. Many of Rogan's comedian pals enthusiastically followed him there - only to deeply regret their decision after arriving. Tim Dillon was the first to jump ship, with the Thanksgiving star fleeing Austin after just a few months in the Lone Star State. Dillon had followed Rogan to Austin in 2020, only to make an emergency exit by the end of that year after discovering that the city didn't have enough good restaurants. 'It's a horrible city without a soul,' he told fellow comedian Whitney Cummings when describing his stint in Austin. 'It's not the live music capital of America. It's three heroin addicts busking with guitars. There's zero talent here in any capacity,' he raged. 'There's three restaurants that are good and I've been to all of them twice.' Joe Rogan's conservative friends, including influencer Blaire White, are heading back to California after following the comedian to Austin, Texas Rogan fled Los Angeles in 2020 and moved his family into a $14 million mansion in Austin In another interview, Dillon said that Austin 'can't be compared to New York and Los Angeles.' He also told the H3 podcast that the city was filled with homeless people, had a 'sewage colored lake,' and that most of the residents would 'get drunk and shoot each other' for fun. Rogan's longtime friend, comedian and MMA fighter Brendan Schaub, has also come to regret his move to Austin. The 42-year-old relocated his family to the city earlier this year, but he recently confessed on his Fighter and the Kid podcast that he was 'heartbroken' about leaving Los Angeles and said he misses the city terribly. 'I miss my community and my routine,' he admitted. He also shared a bleak story about meeting another Los Angeles transplant in Texas who warned him that it might take up to three years for him to acclimate to life in Austin. 'He said, "Texas is great, best decision I've ever made. But you should know that it's no LA. There's no replacing LA",' Schaub recalled. Comedian Shane Gillis, who is another one of Rogan's pals, has also shared a similar sentiment. Tim Dillon had followed Rogan to Austin in 2020, only to make an emergency exit by the end of that year after discovering that the city didn't have enough good restaurants Gillis has repeatedly complained about the homeless situation in Austin, calling the drug-crazed vagrants in town 'screaming runners.' 'Texas f***ing blows,' he told comedian Andrew Schulz while sharing a story about how the power in his Austin home went out for three days due to a bad storm. 'It's hot as f**k. The second we ran out of power the house was 90 degrees and bugs came in immediately. The house was filled with bugs.' Gillis moved to Austin in 2023 because Texas has no income tax. He also wanted to be close to Rogan's standup club the Comedy Mothership. Rogan's longtime friend, comedian and MMA fighter Brendan Schaub, has also come to regret his move to Austin and now says that he misses living in Los Angeles Even celebrities with no connection to Rogan or the comedy scene have voiced regrets about moving to Texas. Male model Lucky Blue Smith and his influencer wife Nara, who is famous for her trad wife content, left Los Angeles in 2022 to move to Dallas. However, within just two years the couple announced that they were leaving the city to live in Connecticut so that they could be closer to New York. In a TikTok video, Nara said that living in Connecticut would allow the couple to own a large house where they could raise their family, while still 'being closer to a bigger city for all the work that we do.' Earlier this week, transgender conservative influencer Blaire White announced that she was leaving Texas after four years to return to her home state of California. The 31-year-old fled her Hollywood home in 2021 amid rising homelessness and the state's tyrannical Covid policies to move to Austin, Texas. Rogan's pal Shane Gillis (left) moved to Austin in 2023 due to the low taxes, but now says that the city 'blows' because it's too hot and is filled with bugs and homeless people Conservative social media star Mike Cernovich, who lives in Orange County, has also come out swinging against Austin However, she announced this week that she's ready to return to California after spending the last four years in Austin. Addressing the major life change in a YouTube video, the transgender social media star shared her surprising reason behind the shock relocation. 'I was born there, so it is home for better or for worse,' Chico-born Blaire said. 'There are a lot of problems with California and a lot of people like to write off New York and California and say, "Just let them go overboard, let them burn," and I find that to be a very un-American perspective to hold,' she continued. 'California in my opinion is the most beautiful place in the world. Yes, I said the world,' she added. 'And it's even more of a shame because of that that it's run by demons.' While Blaire said that Los Angeles has now become 'ghetto and downtrodden,' she explained that she wants to return to the City of Angels to help improve it. 'I want to be someone who's part of the solution. I want to be someone who doesn't run from problems,' she insisted. 'I moved to Texas in the middle of Covid. So I moved to Texas in crisis. The lockdowns weren't ending, so much trauma from that, so much craziness, so it was kind of like an evacuation,' she continued. Male model Lucky Blue Smith and his influencer wife Nara, left Los Angeles in 2022 to move to Dallas The couple left Texas after two years to move to Connecticut so that they could be closer to the bright lights of New York City The YouTube star said that she's also eyeing a run for political office in the future and is excited to add her voice to California politics as a political commentator. Conservative social media star Mike Cernovich has also come out swinging against Austin. The MAGA influencer, who is based in Orange County, recently called the Texas city a 'total dump.' 'Austin was disgusting when I first went there, 2017 or so. I expected culture or whatever, it got so much hype,' he posted on X (formerly Twitter). 'I was looking forward to it. Total dump. There's like two blocks, a dirty river, flat land, and that street where all the drunks go to try kill each other.' From the early 1800s to the 1960s, New York was the undisputed most populous state in America. California overtook New York in 1964 and has been the most crowded ever since. New York dropped back to third place in 1994, when Texas surged past 18.1 million people. Florida later surpassed the Empire State. Earlier this week, transgender conservative influencer Blaire White announced that she was leaving Texas after four years to return to her home state of California 'California in my opinion is the most beautiful place in the world. Yes, I said the world,' Blaire said in a YouTube video A February study from moveBuddha projected that Texas and Florida would be the first and second biggest states, respectively, by 2100, followed by California, Georgia, North Carolina, and New York. California has been steadily losing hundreds of thousands of citizens since 2019, before posting a moderate gain in 2023. Many cite high cost of living and poor quality of life as reasons why they left the Golden State. Data has shown nearly half of the people moving out of California in 2021 were millennials. Many of them headed to Texas counties around major cities such as Houston, Dallas and Austin. Florida, like Texas, has also had a population boom, with more than 700,000 people moving there in 2022. The fact that Texas and Florida don't levy income taxes on their citizens is a major pulling factor from California and New York, both of which have top marginal rates over 10 percent. Still, there are some major drawbacks that could slow these states' march to dominance. For one, both Texas and Florida have been hit with dramatically more natural disasters in the last 10 years, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. White chocolate is gradually fading from UK supermarket shelves, a new report has claimed. Manufacturers are ditching white chocolate in favour of an alternative product made from palm and shea oils. However, a subtle shift in packaging - for instance, changing 'white chocolate' to 'white' - means consumers might have a harder time distinguishing a genuine product from one with a similar flavour profile. White chocolate, traditionally made from cocoa butter, sugar and milk solids, must contain a minimum of 20 per cent cocoa butter to be labelled as white chocolate under UK law, according to The Grocer. However, manufacturers are failing to meet the requirement, and are instead trading cocoa butter for vegetable oils, necessitating a rebrand and packaging changes, the outlet found. For instance, when McVitie's swapped cocoa butter for oils in its white Digestives, the brand altered the packaging to read 'white' and not 'white chocolate'. Despite a recipe change, the price of the white biscuits remained steady at major UK supermarkets, including Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Asda, and Tesco. Nestle followed suit with its white chocolate KitKat Chunky. A spokesperson told The Grocer that the change in description from 'white chocolate' to 'white' was 'accurate and compliant' with the bar's ingredients of vegetable fats. White chocolate is fading from supermarket shelves in favour of an alternative made from vegetable oils, a report has claimed, including on McVitie's Digestives The shift might be a result of rising cocoa prices, which reached new heights last year when dry weather struck West Africa, home to most the world's cocoa farms, and led to a below-par crop. White chocolate products might be undergoing the shift before milk and dark chocolates because it's typically made from cocoa butter, which is easier to replicate. However, the change has impacted some milk and dark chocolate offerings, such as McVitie's Hobnobs Oaty Cookies. The Milk Chocolate Flavour Chips and Dark Chocolate Flavour Chips products do not contain enough cocoa mass to be classified as chocolate. It comes after reports claimed that the price of multiple popular chocolate bars could soon soar in the UK. KitKats, Yorkie bars, and Aeros are among the sweet treats made by Nestle that might cost consumers more in the near future. According to Nestle, the change is down to increasing commodity costs, making the production process more costly. The conglomerate revealed that while it has already raised its prices this year, further increases could be on the way. McVitie's reportedly dropped the 'white chocolate' for 'white' on its Digestives biscuits (pictured) Nestle's white KitKat chunky packaging (pictured above) reads 'white' as opposed to white chocolate In the first quarter of 2025, price hikes in the cost of coffee beans and cocoa saw Nestle raise prices by 2.1 per cent overall. The price hikes were higher in some markets, according to the Swiss company, with the increases in the double digits. Because of these growing prices, its sales growth by volume was affected, Nestle said. Prices of chocolate has risen in general over recent years, with consumers facing an almost 50 per cent increase. The changes have led some chocolate manufacturers to explore other avenues, including lab-grown chocolate. Mondelez International, which makes Oreo, Chips Ahoy cookies and Cadbury chocolate bars, poured funding into start-up Celleste Bio earlier this year, according to The Financial Times. The company uses cell culture technology to grow 100 percent natural cocoa from just one or two beans. Its aim is to 'eliminate the industry's costly reliance on fragile rainforests,' the company said on its website. Chocolate manufacturers are innovating how to best replicate the taste of chocolate to combat rising costs in the supply chain (stock image) The cost of cocoa has continued to grow to dizzying heights, in a rally which started over a year ago. At its peak in April 2024, prices for the ingredient surpassed $12,000 per tonne, which was an almost threefold increase from January, the FT reported. Cocoa prices have soared due to poor climate and bean disease in West Africa - which is home to 70 percent of global cocoa production, which has, in turn, tightened supply. 'If we don't change how we source cocoa, we won't have chocolate in two decades,' Michal Beressi Golomb, chief executive of Celleste Bio, told the outlet. With cell-cultured cocoa, the industry 'won't need to be dependent on nature,' she added. According to Golomb, record prices and global shortages are driving a surge of interest in cocoa alternatives. 'They're really worried about having a sustainable, consistent supply of quality cocoa,' she said. 'Everybody wants to be part of the party.' The company, established in 2022, is one of several firms exploring how the industry can become less reliant on traditional cocoa production. British food ingredients company Tate & Lyle has also partnered with BioHarvest Sciences to develop sweeteners from synthetic plant-derived molecules, the outlet reported. Other companies are looking at how to create sweet treats with other, natural ingredients. Last year, confectioner Fazer, which is based in Finland, rolled out a limited edition cocoa-free 'chocolate' made from local malted rye and coconut oil. 'Nearly four years ago, research told us climate change would impact the availability and price of cocoa,' Annika Porr from Fazer Confectionery's Forward Lab, told the FT, adding, 'This year it has become a reality.' While cocoa prices may be soaring, lab-grown alternatives still face price pressures - and the challenge of making products appeal to consumers. Celleste Bio aims to reach cost parity with pre-2024 cocoa prices once they are in the market in 2027. Porr added: 'Consumers really expect it to taste and feel similar to traditional cocoa. There is still work to be done.' It comes as some confectioners responded to cocoa price rises earlier this year by pitching more non-chocolate treats. Hershey's shipped more non-cocoa treats to retailers last Easter in addition to its traditional Reese's chocolate bunnies and eggs. The brand introduced a new six-pack of cookies 'n' cream bunnies, offered full-sized Kit Kat lemon crisp bars and mixed Haribo gummy bears with chocolate bars in its assortment bags. But despite moves to pull back from a heavy reliance on cocoa, large scale confection-makers said they would not be willing to sacrifice taste in order to save money. 'Tinkering now with the recipes and flavor profiles simply because the input cost for cocoa has gone up, in my opinion, would be a mistake,' Nestle Chief Executive Officer Mark Schneider said on call with journalists in February. A bizarre online conspiracy has people online convinced that internet celebrity Trisha Paytas has given birth to reincarnations of famous legends including the late Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Francis. The mother-of-three, 37 - who identifies as non-binary and uses the pronouns they/them/she/her - has sparked frenzy on social media, as every time she has been pregnant in the past few years has coincided with the passing of a huge, celebrated figure. And yesterday, as the YouTuber-turned-podcaster announced the birth of her son - Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon - it was tragically reported that renowned Black Sabbath musician Ozzy Osbourne died aged 76. While grieving the beloved artist, who is widely considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal, another side of the internet was bamboozled by the crossover, which has happened thrice now. The first time speculation about the eerie theory came about was in 2022, when Trisha had her first baby, Malibu Barbie. Just hours after she announced that she was in labour on September 8, the world was plunged into shock as King Charles's mother, then Britain's longest reigning monarch, passed away. It caused chaos on X, as posters rushed to propose that Elizabeth would be 'reborn' as the influencer's newborn. So persistent were the rumours that Trisha and their husband Moses were forced to step in and rubbish the speculation. The mother-of-three, 37 - who identifies as non-binary and uses the pronouns they/them/she/her - has sparked frenzy on social media, as every time she has been pregnant in the past few years has coincided with the passing of a huge, celebrated figure And yesterday, as the YouTuber-turned-podcaster announced the birth of her son - Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon - it was tragically reported that renowned Black Sabbath musician Ozzy Osbourne died aged 76 While grieving the beloved artist, who is widely considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal, another side of the internet was bamboozled by the crossover, which has happened thrice now Denying the 'weird' conspiracy, she also apologised to the royal family on Instagram the following day, as she shared a photo of their visible baby bump to confirm that they were still 'very much pregnant'. 'Well this is awkward to have to announce that I have NOT given birth,' the post read. 'I almost felt sad yesterday to tell people this. The internet is a weird place. I dont know how any of those rumours started or why? 'Sorry to the royal family and my baby. Felt weird to say anything at all. But so many people IRL that we know, had been texting and calling about this. 'Including my dad who felt out of the loop as if I wouldnt text him when I was going into labor. 'Still dont know what to say. Other than - Im still pregnant. And when I do give birth, we will announce it. Condolences to the royal family. Its very disheartening to hear of the Queens passing. 'For people genuinely excited for us, can we keep that same energy for the next week? It was very kind and nice to hear but will be even more fun when baby is here with us.' In June 2024, Trisha welcomed her second child a daughter named Elvis Paytas-Hacmon. Elsewhere last night, the internet struck with bizarre theories yet again, as Trisha announced the birth to their youngest baby - at the same time that Ozzy's death was reported However, reincarnation rumours started brewing once again earlier this year, when Trisha was pregnant with her third baby. Amid her expecting her son, mourners all around the world were shocked as Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88. While Trisha would have not been anywhere the expected time to go into labour in April, it didn't stop social media from speculating that 'witch' Trisha was part of a wild prophecy, with some event taking it to the next level as they speculated similarities between the online star and the new Pope Leo - both of whom are from Illinois. Elsewhere last night, the internet struck with bizarre theories yet again, as Trisha announced the birth to their youngest baby - at the same time that Ozzy's death was reported. Many were even more baffled by the homage to Aquaman - played by actor Jason Momoa, who had hosted the musician's Farewell Tour. The YouTuber recounted a 'traumatic' delivery on the latest episode of her podcast, Just Trish - also revealing her child's unusual, superhero-inspired name. In a post featuring photos of the newborn, she gushed: 'AQUAMAN MOSES PAYTAS-HACMON (blue heart emoji) Born 07.12.25 @ 12:40 am.' 'This was the most chaotic, traumatizing labor of my life. Like I was literally like, my water was breaking for three hours straight, I was like so scared,' they explained. 'It was July 11th, it was 7/11, which I was super excited about... I didn't have the baby until 7/12 at like one in the morning. I was like, "Oh my God." Trisha and her husband Moses Hacmon have welcomed their third child together, a baby boy named Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon In a post featuring photos of the newborn, she gushed: 'AQUAMAN MOSES PAYTAS-HACMON (blue heart emoji) Born 07.12.25 @ 12:40 am.' 'Water broke... it was soaked everywhere, I was so scared, I'm having the worst contractions of my life. I'm 37, so like having a baby at 37 is way different than having a baby at 34 'cause I was like, actually, I actually thought I was going to literally like die,' she said. 'I was like, "I don't know if I can handle this."' The baby was born ahead of schedule, which was just one of several obstacles Trisha faced the day she gave birth. 'This night, for some reason, everyone was getting emergency C-sections, because there was like three people and two operating rooms and one doctor on call. By the way, my doctor was out of town,' she said. Eventually, their child was born. 'They delivered it quickly. They delivered our baby in 10 minutes,' she explained. Fans expressed relief - and concern - after Trisha posted the update about the difficult birth. Despite Trisha having her son earlier this month, the announcement came on the same day that Ozzy's passing was revealed. The metal legend died on Tuesday just weeks after he took to the stage for his final show with Black Sabbath, with his family confirming the sad news in a statement. The YouTuber recounted a 'traumatic' delivery on the latest episode of her podcast, Just Trish - also revealing her child's unusual, superhero-inspired name American actor Jason Momoa , 45, who joined the the Black Sabbath frontman on stage at Villa Park in Birmingham less than three weeks ago, also paid tribute with a photo backstage with Ozzy and Sharon A bizarre online conspiracy has people online convinced that internet celebrity Trisha Paytas has given birth to reincarnations of famous legends including the late Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Francis The music world have been grieving his death and now, Ozzy's past comments discussing his requests for his funeral have reemerged. His funeral plans have not yet been made public by his family, but Ozzy previously revealed he didn't want it to be a sad occasion but a time to say 'thanks'. 'There'll be no harping on the bad times,' he told The Times back in 2011. 'It's worth remembering that a lot of people see nothing but misery their whole lives, so by any measure, most of us in this country especially rock stars like me are very lucky. 'That's why I don't want my funeral to be sad, I want it to be a time to say '"thanks".' Ozzy insisted he wanted it to be a celebration rather than a 'mope-fest' and that he didn't care what music was played as long as it made his loved ones happy. 'I honestly don't care what they play at my funeral; they can put on a medley of Justin Bieber, Susan Boyle and We Are the Diddymen if it makes 'em happy,' he quipped. Known for his humour, Ozzy joked he'd like to play a prank to make people smile, such as a playing a video of him asking a doctor for a second opinion on his death. However, in another interview a few years later, Ozzy narrowed down his song choice to A Day In The Life by The Beatles. Ozzy has previously credited The Beatles for inspiring him to become a musician himself, revealing he became an avid fan after hearing their 1964 hit She Loves You. When asked about his funeral song, Ozzy insisted he would want a Beatles number being played rather than any of his own music on the day. 'I really need a few more years to think this over, but probably something from 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band or Revolver,' he told NME in 2016. 'I definitely don't want my f**king greatest hits album - I never ever play that thing, I'm f**king embarrassed about it. And I definitely don't want a f**king happy song - I'm dead.' The rock star died on Tuesday morning with his family confirming the news in a statement. 'It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,' they shared. 'He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.' He is survived by his wife Sharon and his six children. He shares three kids - Aimee, 41, Kelly, 41, and Jack, 40, with Sharon. Ozzy also welcomed two children - Jessica and Louis - from his first marriage to Thelma Riley, while he also adopted her son Elliot from her previous relationship. The musician had undergone seven surgeries in the past five years, including a fourth spinal operation in 2023, and had been battling Parkinson's disease since 2003. Job seekers around the globe might sneakily employ the help of ChatGPT or other AI platforms when writing their applications. However, Reddit users have pointed out that there might be a telltale sign that gives away when a person has used the platform. Writing on a forum, an anonymous US-based user asked other social media users about whether they think the em dash is a giveaway. The em dash isn't typically used by the public daily, but ChatGPT implements the dash on a regular basis. As a result, some have warned against using the em dash so as not to be accused of using AI. Taking to a forum, the anonymous US-based Reddit user questioned, 'Em Dashes -The Biggest ChatGPT Giveaway? ' He explained, 'As an advertiser, I love em dashes () for emphasis, but let's be real -nobody uses them in emails or comments. 'They're uncommon, and keyboards don't even have a key for them. Is this the ultimate ChatGPT tell?' Reddit users think they've found a telltale sign that someone is using Chat GPT in a job application or other pieces of work (stock image) Users took to the comment section to share whether they believe the em dash is a sign someone has used ChatGPT. One wrote, 'I used to use them more until this view got so popularised that I just stopped using them so as not get falsely accused.' Another added, 'I definitely see more of them since the new ChatGPT release for sure. Then when you look at the overall text as context with the em dashes, you know where it came from. ' A third wrote, 'I just tested this. I asked them to write three emails. Everyone contained an em dash.' A fourth added, 'Yeah whenever I use something Chat GPT wrote I always replace those with commas.' However, others thought differently, with one saying, 'I use them all the time, to the point where sometimes I'll go back and replace some with commas because I feel like I've overdone it. This isn't a tell.' Another wrote, 'I'm an academic. I use em dashes for clearer writing (academic writing is notoriously obtuse). If that's evidence of ChatGPT use, then that's very bad for me.' It comes after a report found that the number of new entry-level jobs has fallen by nearly a third since ChatGPT was launched in November 2022. The anonymous US-based Reddit user asked others whether they thought an em dash was a giveaway that someone had employed the help of Chat GPT (stock image) Openings for apprenticeships, graduate roles, internships and junior roles with no requirement for a degree fell by 31.9 per cent, according to The Times. Research by jobs search website Adzuna found that entry-level vacancies only make up a quarter of the overall jobs market, which is down by nearly four per cent since 2022. It comes as more companies are outlining their plans to use AI to reduce their headcount. BT said in May 2023 that 10,000 jobs would be replaced by artificial intelligence by the end of the decade. The roles impacted include call handling and network diagnostics. Its chief executive Allison Kirkby has claimed that advances in AI could result in even more job cuts at the company. Dario Amodei, head of $61billion AI start-up Anthropic, warned that the technology could cut half of all entry-level white-collar jobs within five years. The CEO said the change could increase unemployment by between up to 20 per cent. James Neave, the head of data science at Adzuna, said AI was a major factor in the reduction of entry-level jobs. 'If you can reduce your hiring at the entry level, that's just going to increase your efficiency and improve cost savings,' he said. Businesses are facing increasing costs including rises in national insurance contributions and the national minimum wage. The number of entry-level roles fell again by 4.2 per cent in May. Experts predict a 50-50 chance machines could take over all our jobs within a century. But a poll of 16,000 workers last year found many employees believe AI could do it already. Nearly half admitted the technology can outperform them in 'routine tasks' while also paying better attention to detail. The 'jobs apocalypse' is expected to see admin and entry-level roles first but will increasingly affect those higher paid as it becomes more sophisticated. The Future of Work Report by jobs website Indeed found just one in three respondents were confident AI would have a positive impact on their role. The majority however nine in ten felt confident they would be able to adapt to the changes over the next five years. Workers told how much of their day-to-day responsibilities were already ripe for automation with three in five saying that AI can carry out data analysis better than humans. Routine tasks (48%) and attention to detail (45%) were other tasks where workers felt AI had the upper hand. While repetitive jobs are well-suited to AI, workers said they still felt confident they were better in critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence. Asked which jobs are most likely to be untouched by AI in a decade's time, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Chief Economist, Barret Kupelian said people should look to traditional trades - with roles plumbers, electricians and decorators He explained: 'It appears to me that jobs that require a quite a lot of manual labour...I don't think the technology is skilled there, in terms of augmenting those skills.' The PwC spokesman said that roles that require 'a high degree of judgement and creativity' are also unlikely to be able to be automated any time soon because they require 'bespoke skills that are quite difficult to replicate on a digital basis.' A woman who was terrorized for two years by her own home security has shared the traumatic details of her ordeal - and what eventually led to her stalker being caught. The woman, who lives in Brecksville, Ohio, unknowingly hired stalker Robert Hocevar's company Elite Technology in 2022 to install a home security system. After setting up the system Hocevar, 57, began to stalk the woman, using the cameras he had installed to watch her from both his vehicle and his home. The woman, who has not been named publicly, began receiving phone calls in the middle of the night. She recalled him referring to her by name in the calls, and later, she started receiving text messages that contained graphic images and videos - admitting it took a heavy toll on her. 'Not knowing who it was at all and having no clue... Initially, I thought it was somebody just playing a joke on me but then as it started to get worse and worse, that's when I decided to go to the police,' the mom-of-three told News Nation Now. Hocevar - who had dubbed himself 'Bob the alarm guy' - was sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison on July 8, with seven known victims in total. The woman, who works as a nurse, said she had hired Hocevar after a relative recommended his company. The woman, who lives in Brecksville, Ohio, unknowingly hired stalker Robert Hocevar's company Elite Technology in 2022 to install a home security system The mom detailed having an uncomfortable feeling when the alarm was being installed but dismissed it. 'When he was talking to me after it was installed, I had a moment where I felt uncomfortable because he was very close to me,' she admitted. 'I remember taking some steps backwards.' The Brecksville woman said the scariest part of her two-year nightmare was when her burglar alarm was activated by Hocevar remotely on three different occasions in the middle of the night. 'It was scary because I was lying in bed many nights, wondering if this is the night that this escalates and he does something physical,' she explained. After two whole years of being terrified, the woman decided to try and catch her stalker herself by communicating directly with him in the hope they would reveal their identity. 'I would text and he would text me and he started to give more clues of who he was,' she explained. Eventually, Hocevar slipped up, forgetting to disguise his voice with the woman vaguely recognizing it. 'I had a family member listen to it after I kind of figured out it was him and when she heard his voice, she said, "without a doubt, that's him,"' she said. After setting up the system Hocevar, 57, began to stalk the woman, using the cameras he had installed to watch her from both his vehicle and his home The mom detailed having an uncomfortable feeling when the alarm was being installed but dismissed it (stock image) She was later watching a story on Fox affiliate station WJW when she realized Hocevar was her stalker, learning he had been arrested for stalking and harassing two other of his female customers, and in addition had a long criminal history. 'I felt like, "how is this man in people's homes selling alarm systems when he's been harassing, stalking?"' she asked, adding: It's terrifying to think I had this man in my home.' In June, Hocevar pled guilty to three counts of burglary, three counts of unauthorized use of computer, cable, or telecommunications property, three counts of menacing by stalking, one count with sexual specifications, three counts of telecommunications harassment and one count of possessing criminal tools. He must also register as a Tier I sex offender. As per Cleveland 19 News, Hocevar was convicted of one count of telecommunications harassment and one count of menacing by stalking and was sentenced to nine months in prison in 2008. In 2015, Hocevar was convicted of three counts of telecommunications harassment and was sentenced to one year in prison. In 2020, Hocevar was convicted of two counts of menacing by stalking and was sentenced to six months in prison. Detectives discovered that Hocevar was using burner phones and altering his voice to conceal his identity, while stalking and terrorizing his victims, as per Fox 8. All of them had hired him to install security systems, which included cameras and alarms. HGTV star Jasmine Roth is known for transforming homes on her show Help! I Wrecked My House, but she recently opened up about a different transformation - her daughter's health. In a heartfelt update shared through an interview with Future of Personal Health, Roth revealed that five-year-old Hazel underwent tonsil and adenoid reduction surgery in November 2023. And now, Hazel is doing much better. 'Hazel is sleeping like a champ!' Roth shared. 'She has no issues, just goes to sleep, sleeps through the night, and wakes up in the morning, which anybody with a child knows is a big deal.' Jasmine admitted she had no idea children could even experience sleep apnea. Hazel showed signs as early as six months old, but the condition remained undiagnosed until she was three. The diagnosis came years after going undetected, despite heavily affecting the entire family's sleep and wellbeing. In an Instagram post from November 2023, Roth spoke about her daughter Hazel's journey after she was first diagnosed of pediatric sleep apnea. HGTV star Jasmine Roth opened up about her five-year-old daughter's recent health journey It happened after a sleep study confirmed she had borderline severe sleep apnea, which caused her to wake up more than seven times per hour and experience drops in oxygen levels. Before her diagnosis, Jasmine and her husband Brett noticed something was off. 'A few months ago, we noticed a weird breathing/snorting thing happening,' Roth shared on Instagram at the time. Despite Hazel seeming to sleep fine at times, a visit to a pediatric ENT specialist and a follow-up sleep study revealed the severity of her condition. Jasmine recalled, 'Her tonsils were touching and the x-rays showed her adenoids were also enlarged.' Choosing surgery wasn't a decision they made lightly. 'We opted to do a sleep study instead of jumping right into surgery,' she wrote. But after the results came in, it became clear that surgical intervention was the best path forward. While Roth's daughter Hazel had been experiencing sleep issues since six months old, it wasn't until Roth noticed an odd pattern in her breathing that she took her in to be examined It was found that Hazel's tonsils were touching and that her adenoids were enlarged She praised the care Hazel received at CHOC Children's Hospital and the compassion shown by the medical staff. 'If I ever need surgery, I want to go there,' she said, giving a special shoutout to Dr. Bhatt and the team. The surgery was a success. Just weeks later, Hazel began sleeping soundly through the night - for the first time in her life. 'Like most parents, we wish we'd caught it sooner,' Roth said. 'But once we understood what was going on, everything moved quickly.' In the midst of this health scare, the Roth family also experienced a joyful - though intense - milestone. In September 2024, Jasmine gave birth to their second daughter, Darla, one month early in what she described as a dramatic, near-roadside delivery. After results showed she had borderline severe sleep apnea, it was clear Hazel needed surgical intervention Roth shared that the surgery was a success and that Hazel was sleeping through the night for the first time in her life Roth applauded the medical team at the CHOC Children's Hospital for their 'compassion' during Hazel's surgery Thankfully, the new addition arrived as Hazel's health was already improving drastically. After spending 15 days in the NICU, Darla is now healthy and bonding with her big sister. With so many personal developments, it's no surprise Jasmine took a step back from filming Help! I Wrecked My House over the past year. But fans won't have to wait much longer as a new season, filmed in the Roths' new home state of Utah, is set to premiere sometime in Fall 2025. About one in two adults is infected with a virus that can cause cold sores, fever and blisters in the mouth. But now, researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) suggest that oral herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), could also raise the risk of suffering from the life-altering condition multiple sclerosis. In a new study, scientists gene-edited mice not to produce a protein called optineurin, which plays a role in defending the body against herpes infections, and then infected the mice with the virus. The infection led to the rapid degradation of the myelin sheath, a protective coating on nerve fibers. This caused mice to suffer MS-like symptoms, such as muscle weakness, loss of movement and the ability to coordinate muscles. This mirrors the process observed in individuals with multiple sclerosis, where the myelin sheath also degrades because the immune system misfires and starts to attack the area. The scientists say their findings could indicate a link between HSV-1, which is different from the HSV-2 virus that causes genital herpes, and MS. Dr Deepak Shukla, a professor of molecular virology at UIC and the studys lead, said: 'Our findings enhance our understanding of how viruses develop and offer potential avenues for mitigating viral-induced [nerve cell] damage. 'If you are infected, then your immune system is constantly locked in battle with the virus. And if for any reason you become immunocompromised, the virus can escape and damage your brain.' Researchers have warned over a potential connection between oral herpes and multiple sclerosis (stock image, there is no suggestion that the above patient has herpes) Your browser does not support iframes. Oral herpes is an extremely common condition that infects about 47 percent of adults, according to the CDC, or 124million people. The virus is spread via sexual contact, such as kissing and oral sex, and is incurable, normally lying dormant and triggering occasional flare-ups of sores on and around the mouth and lips. In cells, it is controlled by the protein optineurin, which stops an infection from spreading and protects against any potential myelin sheath damage. Scientists have previously established that one of the biggest risk factors for MS is an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a virus that has infected 95 percent of adults and which is estimated to raise the risk of MS by 30 percent. And other herpes viruses, like the ones that cause chickenpox, shingles, and human herpes virus 6, have also been linked to the onset and worsening of MS, which affects 1 million Americans. And MS is a debilitating, incurable autoimmune condition that affects the brain and spinal cord and leaves people with mobility issues, memory loss and fatigue. In earlier studies, Dr Shuklas team found that HSV-1 triggered a strong immune response in the brains of mice, causing memory problems, poor coordination, and anxiety. They also discovered that the protein optineurin helps fight the virus by slowing its growth and spread. In the latest study, researchers infected mice that could not produce the protein with the oral herpes virus in their eyes. Researchers only tested herpes simplex virus-1, or the virus that causes oral herpes. This differs from the one that causes genital herpes As seen in earlier cell tests, mice without optineurin had higher infection rates after four days. The researchers also found that a protein called MLKL, or Mixed Lineage Kinase Domain-Like protein, which is made by the body during cell death, boosted HSV-1 infections in the absence of optineurin. Researchers said the protein facilitated the transportation of the virus into a cell's nucleus, speeding an infection, and optineurin controlled HSV-1 infection by triggering the deterioration of MLKL. Imaging studies revealed extensive clumping, or aggregation, of MLKL in the brains of optineurin-lacking mice, but not in control mice, in response to HSV-1 infection. Also, these clumps appeared to trigger the death of myelin-producing oligodendrocytes, or cells that create armor, or the myelin sheath, around neurons. Without the sheath, the nervous system was left vulnerable to damage. The resulting damage disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to the various symptoms associated with MS, such as weakness in the legs, fatigue, coordination problems, cognitive changes, and pain. Identifying this protein offers a new target for multiple sclerosis therapies. Already, Shuklas lab has demonstrated that necrosulfonamide, which inhibits optineurin, can preserve nerve function in animal models. Studies like these provide hope for the future of MS, and bring about the potential to enable earlier intervention or a possible cure. Back pain is one of the most common, persistent annoyances for a large share of Americans. About eight in 10 adults deal with back pain at some point in their lives, largely from slouching or sitting at a desk all day. Sanjit Koomer, a physical therapist in Canada, is one of those people - suffering from the condition for over two years - despite his job revolving around helping others manage their own pain. He has gone to massage and physical therapists only to be given the 'same generic, copy-paste exercises' that did nothing for his pain. Thats when he decided to take matters into my own hands and rebuild his back 'from the ground up.' Koomer discovered a stretch called the 'reverse Jefferson curl,' which he called a 'gamechanger.' The exercise consists of facing a wall and placing your hips flush against it. Then, clasp your hands behind you and slowly lean your shoulders and head back, keeping your arms straight. Hold for a few seconds before slowly returning to standing straight. In his video, Kooner uses a weighted backpack to provide resistance and he claims the move helps stretch and strengthen muscles in the back. Sanjit Koomer, a physical therapist in Canada, said he cured his back pain with a simple move Your browser does not support iframes. He told Fit and Well: 'It wasnt a magic fix, but once I introduced it consistently two to three times per week I started noticing real improvements over a couple of months. It became a key part of the bigger picture that helped me recover.' He noted the move may be particularly helpful for stiffness and or 'lack of posterior chain control,' or trouble coordinating lower back and pelvic muscles. Kooner demonstrated the move in a recent Instagram Reel and suggested beginners start with their hands on their hips for additional support. 'Focus on segmental spinal control firstno weight, slow tempo, and small range,' he said. 'Once comfortable, you can add resistance gradually.' The physical therapist said he used a three-pound backpack in the video and would suggest no more than 10 to 15 pounds at a time. He recommends completing around 10 repetitions, four to six times a day. Kooner claims the movement works because the spine 'is designed to move and bear load in all directions.' By moving back muscles in different unusual directions it helps to improve mobility and flexibility and combat stiffness. Kooner said: 'This exercise helps improve spinal flexion strength and control, which are often neglected in rehab and training programs.' About eight in 10 Americans suffer from back pain at some point in their lives (stock image) In an Instagram Reel, Kooner detailed the 'reverse Jefferson curl,' which he recommends doing two to three times a week Causes of lower back pain primarily come from the arthritis of the spine, or the slow degeneration of spinal joints. As cartilage breaks down, surrounding tissue may become inflamed. Additionally, back injuries can happen at any moment, even just from sitting at a desk or getting out of bed. Temperature changes may also induce inflammation in the joints and spine, leading to pain. While at-home exercises can provide relief, people with severe pain or back injuries should consult with a doctor before trying any exercises. The World Health Organization has issued an urgent call for action as cases of chikungunya virus explode across the globe. The chikungunya virus is spread primarily by the Aedes mosquito species and nearly half a million people became infected between 2004 and 2005 - leading to a worldwide epidemic. Chikungunya infections are most common in Asia, Africa and South America, though more recently cases have also emerged across Europe and the US. The virus can cause symptoms like fever, joint pain and life-threatening complications related to the heart and brain. The infection does not spread from person to person through bodily contact or saliva and can only be transmitted through a bite from an infected mosquito. Since there is no specific medical treatment for the chikungunya infections, experts are asking people to regularly use insect repellents and wear long-sleeve clothing to prevent mosquito bites this summer Diana Rojas Alvarez, a medical officer at the WHO said of the new cases: 'We are seeing history repeating itself,' referencing the 2004-2005 epidemic. The current surge began in early 2025, with major outbreaks in the Indian Ocean islands of La Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius. According to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, there have been about 220,000 Chikungunya virus cases and 80 related deaths in 14 countries since the beginning of 2025. Pictured: An ARS vector control agent fights against Chikungunya in La Reunion An estimated one-third of La Reunion's population - nearly 300,000 people - have already been infected, according to Rojas Alvarez. During the last epidemic, about 266,000 people were infected out of whom 203 died on La Reunion. The virus has also spread to Madagascar, Somalia, Kenya and India and is making its way to Europe. There have been approximately 800 imported chikungunya cases in continental France since May 1, Rojas Alvarez said. Out of the 800 cases, 12 of the infected people had been bitten by local mosquitoes without having travelled to high-risk areas in several southern French regions. The chikungunya outbreak has occurred far earlier in the year than is typical, and this could indicate the mosquitoes that carry chikungunya are becoming increasingly at home in France, thanks to climate change, officials warned. Two cases have also been reported in Italy this week and both people were infected within the country rather than abroad, according to the Foreign Office-backed Travel Health Pro. In June of this year, Australian vacationers were issued a warning AS The Cook Islands, a nation in the South Pacific, declared the most recent outbreak of the disease after 19 cases were recorded. Case counts have also been increasing in Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, Fiji and Kiribati. As of July 16, two dozen cases of chikungunya infections in the US that had been contracted while traveling to high-risk areas have been reported by the CDC. While it remains unclear where patients contracted the virus, the federal agency has issued an elevated risk of exposure notice for Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines and Thailand. Approximately 200 cases of the virus were reported in 2024 in the US. About 220,000 Chikungunya virus cases and 80 related deaths in 14 countries have been reported since the beginning of 2025 According to the CDC, chikungunya was rarely identified in American travelers before 2006. However, between 2006 and 2013, nearly 30 people tested positive for the infection every year in the US. All were travelers visiting or returning to the US from affected areas in Asia, Africa, or the Indian Ocean. In 2014, 2,799 cases, out of which 12 were locally acquired, were reported in various US states including Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands - marking the year as the highest ever. Though not fatal, chikungunya can cause a range of effects, which are primarily marked by a sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain, while other common symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rashes. While the acute phase of the illness usually resolves within a week or two, the joint pain can persist for weeks, months or even years in some individuals. However, in some cases, infections can progress to severe dengue, which can cause potentially life-threatening complications such as internal bleeding and organ damage, and death. The chikungunya virus is spread primarily by Aedes mosquito species (pictured) In extreme cases, eye, heart and neurological complications have also been reported in people suffering from a chikungunya infection. Newborns, adults aged 65 and older and people with certain health conditions are also at the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure due to an infection. While the virus cannot be transmitted directly from person to person, people can become infected with chikungunya when mosquitoes feed on another infected person and then bite them. If a pregnant woman is infected around the time of delivery, the baby can also be infected at birth, which often results in severe disease in the baby. While there is no medication to treat a chikungunya infection, its symptoms can be managed by taking acetaminophen for pain and drinking lots of fluids. In late 2023, the FDA also approved a vaccine for chikungunya for people over the age of 18 who are at increased risk of exposure to the virus called IXCHIQ. READ MORE: My wife is battling cancer that kills half of women who get it Doctors have discovered a new marker of one of America's deadliest cancers - opening up the opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment. Researchers at the University of California - San Diego looked at mice who were genetically engineered to mimic the early stages of pancreatic cancer, which kills nearly nine in 10 patients within five years. Looking at cells under a microscope, they found cell stress and inflammation could be early warning signs of the disease as it can cause cancer cells to activate the protein STAT3, which has been shown to help tumors survive and resist treatment. STAT3 then turns on the protein Integrin 3 (ITGB3) in mouse and human cells, which fuels the growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common form of pancreatic cancer. This causes PDAC to spread faster and become more difficult to treat. Inflammation and cellular stress cause by chemotherapy also activated STAT3, increasing ITGB3 expression and further spreading the disease. Based on the findings, researchers believe blocking STAT3 could stop tumors from forming while pancreatic cancer is still in its early stages. Because most pancreatic cancers are only diagnosed after they have already spread, this could improve the overall survival rate. Ryan Dwars of Iowa (left) and Holly Shawyer of North Carolina were both diagnosed with pancreatic cancer Your browser does not support iframes. David Cherish, study author and pathologist at UC San Diego, told Newsweek: 'Given the fact that STAT3 plays such an important role in many cancers and the fact that it controls so many genes prompted us to drill down on which genes in particular are associated with cancer development, progression and drug resistance.' The team also noted the findings could lead to early treatments fo lung, breast and skin cancers. Pancreatic cancer affects roughly 67,000 Americans every year and kills about 52,000. More than half the time, the disease is first spotted after it has already reached stage three or four due to its vague symptoms. These include abdominal pain, weight loss, back pain, jaundice and floating or clay-colored stools. This leads patients to assume their symptoms are from more benign causes like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By the time it reaches stage four, the five-year survival rate is just three percent, making it virtually incurable. It's unclear exactly what causes pancreatic cancer, but smoking, obesity and diabetes are thought to increase the risk by inducing harmful inflammation that causes cells to divide and become mutated more easily. In the new study, published Tuesday in the journal Cell Reports, researchers genetically engineered mice to have a mutation in their KRAS gene, which raises the risk of lung, colorectal and pancreatic cancers. This was done to help mimic early pancreatic cancer in humans. The team found in the presence of inflammatory proteins and stress induced by low oxygen levels - which makes cancer cells more invasive and treatment resistant - STAT3 activates ITGB3 in both mouse and human pancreas cells, which accelerates the growth of pancreatic cancer cells. This created a harmful loop between STAT3 and ITGB3, which caused tumors to become more aggressive and spread more easily. The chart shows survival rates for pancreatic cancer, per the National Cancer Institute Early signs of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, stomach pain, back pain and floating stools However, when researchers used cancer drugs to target STAT3 early, cancer development slowed and became less aggressive, keeping it from spreading to other organs and becoming more difficult to treat. In total, STAT3 induces the expression of 10 genes, including ITGB3, which form a gene signature the researchers dubbed 'STRESS UP.' The team believes detecting the STRESS UP signal early can help predict whether precancerous cells will turn into pancreatic cancer and determine how aggressive a tumor may become. Cheresh said: 'Having knowledge of this gene signature in patients could be valuable since there are known drugs on the market for other diseases that block STAT3 activation and thereby inhibit the expression of the STRESS UP genes in cancer cells.' He noted STRESS UP could be used to help develop early screening tools for pancreatic cancer, as there is currently no way to test for it until symptoms develop. The team now plans to explore molecules that could stop inflammation from activating ITGB3 not only in pancreatic cancer but also other forms of the disease that can affect the surface of tissues. These include lung, breast and skin cancers. New Yorkers are facing an imminent public health threat linked to a virus that parts of the state had eliminated years ago. Rabies is making a comeback in Nassau County - an area on Long Island about 30 miles east of New York City - with new infections among animals becoming widespread, according to county health officials, who warn the city and island's 11 million residents should be on alert. The resurgence of rabies in Nassau County, with its high population density and after nearly a decade of absence, represents a serious and evolving public health concern, said Nassau County Health Commissioner Dr Irina Gelman. There have been 25 cases of rabies in animals over the past 12 months. Four additional suspected cases are currently being tested. Rabies has not yet infected any people in the area. Still, Gelman declared an imminent public health threat,' which means the county can allocate more resources to disease mitigation and prevention efforts. The virus, public health officials believe, has migrated from New York City, where funding for rabies infection prevention in animals in the area has dried up. Rabies is estimated to cause 59,000 human deaths annually in over 150 countries, with most cases occurring in Africa and Asia. According to the World Health Organization, this number is likely a gross underestimate. Human infections are rare in the US, with fewer than 10 cases reported annually, largely due to widespread animal vaccinations, effective public health measures, and the availability of post-exposure care that can save patients. Without prompt treatment, though, nearly 100 percent of patients infected with the virus die. There have been 25 cases of rabies in animals over the past 12 months. Four additional suspected cases are currently being tested To avoid infection, health officials advise against feeding or touching wild animals, stray cats, or dogs. Additionally, they recommend keeping pets up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and keeping puppies too young to receive the vaccine indoors, only allowing them outside if someone is supervising them. They also told residents to spread the word about avoiding wild animals, especially those acting abnormally. If a wild animal gets onto your property, they advise people to bring pets and young children inside until the animal is removed and contact an animal control expert to safely remove it. And they said not to touch dead or dying animals. If they need to be moved, use a shovel to double-bag them and leave them in an outdoor garbage bin. Rabies can spread to humans or pets through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva from an infected animal, particularly when it comes into contact with open wounds, eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus is most commonly seen in raccoons, skunks, and foxes, but three feral cats that traveled from Queens in New York City to Long Island were found to harbor the virus. Nassau County has had successful eradication of rabies since 2016, prior to this most recent outbreak. The map shows which are most likely to carry rabies in various regions across the US Gilman said: There may be more cases out in the wild because weve confirmed 25, its indicative of wider spread. First of all, [theres concern in] the sheer volume of cases that we have seen in one year, but also the rate of spread and also, the fact that it is feral domesticated animals. The county will continue its rabies mitigation efforts through the fall, anticipating an increase in animal cases and concerns about potential human transmission. When someone sees a cat in their backyard, its not necessarily as much of a reaction as seeing a wild animal, Gelman added, warning that children may also unknowingly play with a rabid cat. Your browser does not support iframes. The health department plans to use a rabies vaccine bait drop along the border with Queens and throughout the county. It involves distributing edible baits containing the rabies vaccine, often by air or vehicle, in residential areas where rabies is prevalent. The time for prevention is now, Gelman said. One ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Thats exactly what were trying to accomplish here. A 29-year-old woman who struggled to get pregnant and feared she might be infertile discovered that she was actually suffering from an extremely rare sperm allergy. The unnamed female from Lithuania had been trying to conceive with her male partner but had not become pregnant. Two rounds of IVF also failed to produce a pregnancy, but gynecological exams did not find any underlying causes for why she was unable to become pregnant. After doctors discovered she had a history of asthma and sensitivity to inhaled allergens, such as mold, cat fur and dust, she visited a medical facility to see if her allergies might be affecting her fertility. Allergy tests revealed that she had a sensitivity to Can f 5, which can cause allergic symptoms after contact with male dog urine, fur, and human semen. In an interview, the patient confirmed that she experienced nasal congestion and sneezing after unprotected intercourse with her male partner. Further tests using samples of semen collected from the woman's partner revealed she had a condition known as seminal plasma hypersensitivity, a rare allergic reaction to proteins found in seminal fluid - the fluid released during orgasm that includes sperm, as well as other bodily secretions. There are less than 100 documented cases of the condition globally and while it doesn't directly cause infertility, it can make it more difficult to conceive. A 29-year-old woman who struggled to get pregnant and feared might be infertile discovered that she was actually suffering from an extremely rare sperm allergy (stock image) Your browser does not support iframes. Symptoms of semen allergy - which happens when you have a harmful immune system reaction to proteins in semen - include a change in skin color, burning and swelling where semen contacts the skin or vaginal tissues. Some people may have a whole-body response, including hives, itching and difficulty breathing. Due to discomfort, this allergy may discourage sexual activity and in some cases, lead to difficulty with conception. However, there are treatment options available to help couples conceive despite the allergy. The Mayo Clinic notes that treatment to make you less sensitive to your partner's semen - such as using antihistamines or corticosteroids - may allow you to get pregnant naturally. Another option is intrauterine insemination (IUI), which uses sperm washed free of semen proteins to prevent a reaction. For those with a severe sensitivity to semen, assisted reproductive technology such as IVF may be an option for pregnancy. It isn't clear why the female patient's IVF treatments did not work, given semen would not have been present in the implanted embryos. Another method used to treat seminal plasma hypersensitivity involves introducing increasing concentrations of semen into the patient's body to build tolerance. However, this treatment plan wasn't available for the woman in her home country, according to a report in Live Science. Some women may suffer from an unusual allergic reaction during or after sex, experiencing intimate discomfort, swelling or even difficulty breathing Instead, doctors recommended that the woman take antihistamine medication before intercourse to reduce the severity of her allergic reactions. She followed their instructions but found this approach 'ineffective'. Three years later, the woman said that she had still been unable to conceive during a follow-up appointment. To make matters worse, new allergic symptoms appeared after contact with her partner's semen, including a 'burning sensation in her vulva, puffy eyelids and watery eyes'. No further treatments were recommended, according to the report and it is unclear if the woman went on to conceive eventually. Dr Michael Carroll, associate professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University, said seminal plasma hypersensitivity may affect more people than previously thought - and often goes undiagnosed. Writing for The Conversation, he warned it is often mistaken for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), yeast infections, and general sensitivity. But one clue you're in fact 'allergic to sex', is 'symptoms disappearing when condoms are used', he revealed. The sex allergy is now recognized as a 'type 1 hypersensitivity', falling into the same category as peanut allergy, cat dander, and season allergies. Seminal plasma hypersensitivity was first documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalized after a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex. Daily Show host Jon Stewart has been branded a hypocrite for failing to press the billionaire owner of the Los Angeles Times moments after ripping mainstream media for bending the knee to Donald Trump. Stewart's sit-down with Patrick Soon-Shiong came after a monologue in which the host slammed media companies who water down their content to avoid backlash from the Trump administration. Before the interview, Stewart took repeated shots at CBS parent company Paramount Global, accusing executives there of operating out of fear in regard to late-night host Stephen Colbert's firing. Outraged Times staffers told Status that Stewart's softball interview completely ignored Soon-Shiong's track record at the paper, including a reported request from the billionaire that the paper's editorial board 'take a break' from criticizing Trump. The Times has seen several rounds of layoffs and other alleged attempts by Soon-Shiong to curry favor with the president. None of those issues were raised by Stewart, angering Times staff already frustrated by what they see as pandering from an owner who pulled the paper's planned endorsement of Kamala Harris. 'Everyone is pissed,' one staffer told Status. 'The consensus is that Jon Stewart's interview was awful. It seemed like he hadn't read up on the guy.' Another called Stewart's approach 'totally bizarre,' given his reputation for needling guests. Jon Stewart's sit-down with billionaire Los Angeles Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong came after a monologue in which the host slammed media companies who water down their content to avoid backlash from the Trump administration Soon-Shiong, the owner of the Times since 2018, is one of several media magnates who have been accused of bending the knee to Donald Trump 'No questions about [Soon-Shiong] destroying LAT's reputation? Nothing about his sucking up to Trump/RFK?' the insider said. 'Especially coming right after Stewart ripped Paramount, just baffling.' Stewart didn't broach the subject of Soon-Shiong's false claim that his paper does not cover his pharmaceutical business, Status pointed out, noting that an undisclosed advertisement for his business was featured on one of the Times' audio shows in March. Status reported on speculation that Soon-Shiong - the inventor of a popular cancer drug - is looking for a clear path for future approval of more drugs. During the conversation, Soon-Shiong also announced plans to take the Times public - a revelation that one angry staffer told Breaker Media served as an example 'of the fly-by-night nature of how this paper is being run.' 'This is indicative of everything with him,' another reporter told Politico. 'He doesn't talk to us. He doesn't have newsroom meetings. We only get a sense of what he's feeling via Twitter rant or when he randomly decides to save some pocket change and fire 12 people.' Immediately after the presidential election, a longtime Times columnist claimed that a piece for the editorial page's opinion section that was critical of Trump had been spiked by Soon-Shiong. Soon-Shiong was one of about a dozen wealthy executives, including Open AI's Sam Altman and former First Buddy Elon Musk, who has lunch with Trump in Riyadh in May Soon-Shiong acquired the Times in 2018, as part of a $500million deal. The past three years have been plagued by layoffs, the most recent of which saw at least 115 staffers in the newsroom let go in January 'The consensus is that Jon Stewart's interview was awful,' one Times staffer said. 'It seemed like he hadn't read up on the guy' The columnist and several others quit in protest. Others accused Soon-Shiong of pulling the Harris endorsement because he 'wanted to hedge his bets' in case Trump won. In February, Status reported on pushback against Soon-Shiong following an appearance on Dr. Drew Pinsky's YouTube show, in which he offered repeated praise for Trump and was briefly challenged by the host over his paper's coverage of him. Other moves that have been met with pushback include Soon-Shiong hosting Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s wife, Cheryl Hines, to the paper's offices in February, for talks about a proposed right-leaning version of The View featuring far-right personalities like Candace Owens and Rob Schneider. That same month, Soon-Shiong brought conservative CNN commentator Scott Jennings onto his paper's editorial board. Soon-Shiong acquired the Times in 2018, as part of a $500million deal. The past three years have been plagued by layoffs, the most recent of which saw at least 115 staffers in the newsroom let go in January. The Daily Mail has reached out to Stewart's people for comment concerning his oversights. Stephen Colbert has been insulted live on-air by one of his CBS stablemates who implied the axing of the liberal star's talk show is no great loss. Tony Dokoupil branded Colbert and his stablemates 'one sided' on CBS Mornings Wednesday while he and his colleagues discussed Jon Stewart's defense of The Late Show, which will disappear from screens in May 2026. Stewart claimed on his show Tuesday that a large part of CBS' parent company Paramount's $8 billion valuation was due to Colbert, despite The Late Show losing $40 million a year. Paramount plans to merge with media company Skydance in the coming months if it can gain approval from President Trump's Federal Communications Commission. Stewart and others have suggested anti-MAGA Colbert had been axed to grease the wheels of that deal. But Dokoupil was clearly unimpressed by that theory and even gave an exasperated sounding sigh live on air after the clip of Stewart was played. 'I understand the emotional views,' he said. 'I dont have an MBA but hes not right that the merger, the $8 billion, is based on reruns of a comedy show, no. 'People are buying the movies and the sitcoms and the sports. Theyre not based on reruns of us (CBS Mornings) either, so I think its wrong.' Dokoupil then attacked Colbert himself, saying his show and its competitors 'got way way more one-sided than anything Johnny Carson was ever doing'. He was referring to talk show icon Carson, whose late night program paved the way for the likes of Colbert and who never shared his political views during his 30 years on air. Dokoupil could be seen sighing as he rejected Stewart's view while live on-air Last Thursday, CBS announced that the comedian's decade-long run as the host of CBS' late night flagship will end next May He added: '[Stewart] acknowledged that these late-night shows are what he called like a Blockbuster kiosk inside a Tower Record so the business is broken.' Co-host Gayle King ignored Dokoupil while adding that she felt sorry for Colbert, describing it as 'very difficult'. Dokoupil agreed, adding that he felt 'for the whole staff of both those shows, and whatever comes next for everybody'. Dokoupil is no stranger to going against the grain, and last year found himself hauled before CBS' in-house DEI team after clashing with author Ta-Nehisi Coates over his anti-Israel views. Stewart's spiel came during a reflective segment on The Daily Show, which originally aired alongside Colbert's since-cancelled 'Colbert Report' in the 2000s. He said Colbert went on to 'exceed all expectations' upon leaving Comedy Central for late-night, before acknowledging the fading format as a whole. 'Now, I acknowledge, losing money, late-night TV is a struggling financial model,' he said. 'We are all basically operating a Blockbuster kiosk inside of a Tower Records.' 'But when your industry is faced with changes, you dont just call it a day,' joking. 'When CDs stopped selling, they didnt just go, "Oh, well, music, its been a good run!".' He addressed executives at Paramount - CBS's parent company - directly, accusing them of capitulating to Trump to secure the sale. Stewart's Daily Show, originally aired alongside Colbert's since-cancelled 'Colbert Report' in the 2000s He said: 'I believe CBS lost the benefit of the doubt two weeks prior, when they sold out their flagship news program to pay an extortion fee to said president.' 'At that time, poor Andy Rooney must have been rolling over in his bed,' he joked of the late legendary news writer. 'That's right. He is alive. Andy Rooney is alive.' 'I understand the corporate fear. I understand the fear that you and your advertisers have with $8 billion at stake. But understand this,' Stewart added. 'Truly, the shows that you now seek to cancel, censor, and control? A not-insignificant portion of that $8 billion value came from those f**king shows,' he added. Last Thursday, CBS announced that the comedian's decade-long run as the host of CBS' late night flagship will end next May. Colbert was paid between $15 million and $20 million a year for his failing show. 'Insiders' immediately maintained to publications like Puck and Variety the top-rated show was canceled due to being a money pit what was losing $40million a year. The sudden move sparked immediate backlash from left-wing celebrities and politicians, who claim the decision was strictly politically-motivated. The cancellation was revealed two days after Colbert used the term 'big fat bribe' to describe Paramount's $16million settlement with President Trump. Paramount, which owns CBS, decided to settle on the suit over deceptive editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. The drama surrounding the abrupt cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will lead to the longtime host finally winning an Emmy after nine years of nominations, an industry expert said. Steven Zeitchik, senior editor of technology and politics at The Hollywood Reporter, argued in a new piece that Colbert's defiant stance against the Trump administration will sway the voting body at the Television Academy. A media frenzy engulfed The Late Show after Colbert publicly slammed the CBS show's parent corporation, Paramount Global, for settling a defamation lawsuit with Trump for $16 million, calling it a 'big, fat, bribe,' in his opening monologue. Just days after the searing call-out, Colbert told his studio audience that the network was ending The Late Show in May 2026. Speculation has loomed over why the show was canceled, with A-listers and fellow talk-show hosts coming to the comedian's defense. As Hollywood mourned the loss of the show, Trump was quick to celebrate, writing on Truth Social, 'I absolutely love that Colbert got fired. His talent was even less than his ratings.' In response, Colbert returned to The Late Show stage and took the gloves off during his monologue. 'How dare you, sir? Would an untalented man be able to compose the following satirical witticism? Go f*** yourself,' he said in a message to the president. Colbert slammed his CBS show's parent corporation, Paramount, for settling a defamation lawsuit with Donald Trump, calling it a 'big, fat, bribe (Pictured: Trump on The Late Show as a guest on September 22, 2015) Just days after the public call-out, Colbert announced that the network was canceling his show. Many called the move political, while Trump celebrated online (Pictured: Colbert hosting the Emmy Awards on September 17, 2017) Zeitchik speculated that the increased attention and Colbert's willingness to stand up to Trump could result in The Late Show finally snagging an Emmy win. Colbert won an Emmy for his work on The Colbert Report, a satirical show that ran on Comedy Central from 2005 to 2014. After he replaced David Letterman on The Late Show, the program was nominated for the most Outstanding Talk Series at the Emmys from 2017 to 2022. Every year during that period, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver won the award. Oliver's arguably the most liberal of the late-night bunch and often spotlights politics on his show. In 2023, Last Week Tonight was moved to a different category, nominated for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series. Colbert still watched from the sidelines that year as The Daily Show with Trevor Noah won the award. Noah's win coincided with his last season hosting the show, before a series of rotating hosts took over. In 2024, The Daily Show's longtime veteran host, John Stewart, made his highly anticipated return, which was enough to secure the Emmy. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has never won at the Emmy Awards. Last Week Tonight with John Oliver is the consistent frontrunner of the category (Pictured: Taylor Tomlinson, Stephen Colbert, and John Oliver at the award ceremony on January 15, 2024) A glimmer of hope came for Colbert in 2023 when Oliver's show was moved to another category, but The Daily Show with Trevor Noah took home the win (Pictured: Trevor Noah and the crew accepting the Emmy in 2024) Zeitchik argued that Stewart's team at The Daily Show was the frontrunner this year as well, but the controversy surrounding The Late Show presents an opportunity for liberal Hollywood to stick it to the Trump administration. Industry reporter Steven Zietchik argued that liberal Hollywood will vote for Colbert at this year's Emmys 'Whether the president actually had a hand in the cancellation matters less than the fact that voters see a partisan battle in the firing,' Zeitchik wrote. 'An Emmy wont change public policy on immigration and Medicaid. But it's one of the few ways liberal Hollywood can stick it to the leader they loathe.' The industry reporter also pointed out that this could be Colbert's last chance at a traditional Emmy at a major network. He also noted that, like Noah's win in 2023, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson won its first Emmy for its final year on the air. Colbert has long been a staunch critic of conservatives, frequently torching the president during his opening monologues. But long before he began hosting, Colbert spoofed conservativism on The Colbert Report, satirizing Republican television personalities like former Fox News host Bill O'Reilly. He hosted the White House Correspondents Dinner in 2006 and delivered a speech so intense that some staffers walked out. Long before he began hosting, Colbert spoofed conservativism on The Colbert Report, satirizing Republican television personalities like former Fox News host Bill O'Reilly Colbert didn't mince words when reacting to Trump's Truth Social post celebrating the show's cancellation, telling the president to 'Go f*** yourself' Zeitchik pointed to the irony of Colbert winning an Emmy after a feud with Trump, as the president knows what it's like to continually lose at the award show. Trump lost at the Emmys eight times during his tenure on his reality television show The Apprentice. 'So the trophy Trump is claiming here is a rich one, nearly 30 years in the making, on behalf of several generations of Republican leaders,' Zeitchik concluded. 'Of course, the trophy Colbert could wind up winning may be even sweeter.' Daily Mail reached out to Paramount and the Television Academy for comment. AstraZeneca has outlined plans to invest 37billion in the US as Donald Trumps pharmaceutical tariffs loom fuelling fears that it will ditch its London listing. The FTSE 100 drug maker announced yesterday that it is accelerating its expansion in America with an investment that will create tens of thousands of new jobs. Analysts said the Government will be kicking itself over the companys decision to plough money into the US rather than the UK and added bosses are losing patience with Labour. The move intensified concerns that AstraZeneca will shift its primary stock market listing from London to New York a move that would strike a hammer blow to the City. Trump has threatened the sector with new import levies to pressure drug makers to move factories to the US. The President warned last week that he would impose tariffs probably at the end of the month and has previously said they could be as high as 200 per cent. US deal: AstraZeneca, led by boss Pascal Soriot (pictured), announced it is accelerating its expansion in America with a 37bn investment that will create tens of thousands of new jobs The US is Cambridge-based AstraZenecas largest market, accounting for 42 per cent of sales a figure boss Pascal Soriot wants to boost to 50 per cent by the end of the decade. Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said: The more business it does in the country, the greater the likelihood that investors might push for AstraZeneca to switch its main stock listing to the US. That would be bad for the UK stock market as it is one of the biggest names in the FTSE 100. AstraZenecas pledge to invest in the US comes as an embarrassing snub to the Government just days after ministers unveiled a long-awaited plan to boost the UKs life sciences sector. Relations between AstraZeneca and the Government have become more strained since Labour came to power last year. In January, the firm axed plans for a 450million vaccine factory near Liverpool amid a funding row with ministers. And while Soriot has slammed the UK as a very unattractive place to do business, he yesterday said the push into the US underpins our belief in Americas innovation in biopharmaceuticals and our commitment to the millions of patients who need our medicines in America and globally. Rival manufacturers have also ramped up spending in the US as fears over tariffs swirl, including Swiss giant Roche, French firm Sanofi and FTSE 100 business Hikma. AJ Bells Mould said: The Government will be kicking itself that AstraZeneca has decided to invest in the US as Blighty will miss out on associated economic benefits. One of Britains last remaining major oil refineries is closing after no buyers were found. The Lindsey Oil Refinery in North East Lincolnshire will shut in the coming weeks after owner Prax crashed into administration last month. The closure of the plant on the banks of the River Humber will cost more than 400 jobs and leave Britain with just four major refineries. Energy Minister Michael Shanks said the firm was left in an untenable position by Prax owners, husband and wife Sanjeev and Arani Soosaipillai. Shanks said yesterday: We are deeply disappointed with the untenable position in which the owners left Prax Lindsey Oil Refinery. Our sympathies are with the workers, their families and the local community. The Government will immediately fund a comprehensive Training Guarantee for these refinery workers to ensure they have the skills they need and are supported to find jobs in the growing clean energy workforce. Lidl looks set to overtake Morrisons as the UKs fifth- largest supermarket after its market share hit a record high this summer. More than half a million new customers flocked to the discount retailers 960 stores amid concerns over higher grocery bills. Lidl is now hot on the heels of Morrisons after its slice of the market hit 8.3 per cent over the three months to July 13, according to industry research group Worldpanel. Lidl sales over the period were 11.1 per cent higher than a year earlier when its share of the market was 7.8 per cent. The surge saw it further narrow the gap with rival Morrisons, whose market share has fallen from 8.7 per cent to 8.4 per cent in the past year, the report showed. Morrisons has already lost its position as the fourth-biggest grocer in Britain to Aldi. Slice of the pie: More than half a million new customers flocked to the Lidls 960 stores amid concerns over higher grocery bills Nearly two thirds of households told Worldpanel they are very concerned about the cost of their grocery shopping. Price increases on key goods including cocoa and beef have ramped up pressure on supermarket chains locked in a bitter battle to retain shoppers. Morrisons slip comes as boss Rami Baitieh attempts to engineer a recovery at the private-equity owned group. Last month, he said it had bounced back after its technology supplier Blue Yonder was hit by hackers in November, throwing its stock systems into disarray. Morrisons has lost sales and market share to cheaper rivals since its takeover by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) in a debt-fuelled 7billion deal in October 2021. After Labour piled on costs for retailers at the Budget last year, Morrisons cut more than 350 jobs across its cafes, convenience stores, florists and fresh food counters, in March. The figures also underscored the woes facing Britains third-largest grocer, Asda. The firm, also owned by private equity, saw sales plunge 3 per cent from 4.4billion to 4.25billion over the past three months, while its market share fell to 11.8 per cent. The dire performance came after executive chairman Allan Leighton insisted the green shoots of recovery are appearing as it slashes the price of thousands of products and improves stock levels. A spokesman for Lidl said the record market share was a clear signal that shoppers are voting with their feet. This milestone reflects our long-standing position as the fastest-growing bricks-and-mortar supermarket in the UK, as well as our commitment to offering high quality, affordable produce which is why weve attracted more than half a million new customers. Meanwhile, Tesco improved its share to 28.3 per cent as sales grew by 7.1 per cent, the fastest rate since December 2023. And Britains number two supermarket Sainsburys saw sales climb by 5.3 per cent, putting its market share at 15.1 per cent. Tesco boss Ken Murphy has warned that Tesco was ready to take a 400million hit to profits this year as the competition hots up. Andrew Bailey yesterday put himself at odds with Rachel Reeves over the Chancellors outspoken attack on regulation. The Bank of England Governor made clear that he did not share Reeves recent claim that the enforcement of red tape acted as a boot on the neck of business. Speaking to MPs on the Treasury select committee, he urged caution over a proposed shake-up of the ring-fencing system that separates traditional lending and deposit-taking from riskier investment banking. The comments appear to be a shot across the bows of the Chancellor as she seeks to unravel some of the reforms put in place during the financial crisis in a bid to boost growth. They suggest she may face an unwanted battle with Threadneedle Street to add to friction with Labour backbenchers over spending cuts and the battle to balance the books, amid dismal economic growth and deteriorating public finances. Reeves took aim at regulators during her Mansion House speech to the City earlier this month. Cautious: Andrew Bailey (pictured) made clear he did not share Rachel Reevess claim that the enforcement of red tape acted as a boot on the neck of business But Bailey chose to dissociate himself from the boot on the neck comments. He said: Its not a term Id use. I think there are areas that we clearly should look at it weve announced a whole range of things were doing, and thats a good thing. But we cant compromise on basic financial stability and that would be my overall message. Reeves has also promised meaningful reform of the ring-fencing regime something being demanded by the bosses of a number of major banks who say they are a drag on business. But Bailey said he favoured keeping the rules. He told MPs: I do think that the ring-fencing regime is an important part of the structure of the banking system. Bailey said the rules make it easier to deal with banks that get into trouble in a way that spares consumers, businesses and households. He added: Im sure there are things that can be improved and we will work constructively to get through that process. I think it has established itself as part of the system and to me it would not be sensible to take it away at this point. Asked how he would respond if the Treasury seemed to be going too far in stripping back regulation, Bailey said he and Bank officials would start by making our views very clear. Kim Kardashian has hit back at a man that she wrongly accused of being a death row double murderer, after the man sued her for defamation. The 44-year-old reality star shared a picture to her social media last February of a man identified as Ivan Cantu, 60, a project manager from Westchester, New York. She was attempting to raise awareness of then Texas death row inmate of the same name, who was executed in the days after the post for a double murder. But the photo she shared was of a completely innocent man, who's alleging that Kardashian destroyed his reputation by falsely branding him a murderer. Lawyers for the innocent Cantu filed a lawsuit in February against Kardashian for libel and slander, saying she also caused him serious emotional stress. In a motion to strike the claim filed by representatives of Kardashian last month, her lawyers said the Instagram story constituted her exercising her freedom of speech. The motion also claims that Cantu had used the suit as an attempt to 'cash in' on the mishap. Her lawyers add that the post falls under anti-SLAPP laws in California, legislation aimed at protecting people from lawsuits after exercising First Amendment rights. It said: 'Plaintiff cannot establish a probability of prevailing on any of his claims. Accordingly, the Court should grant this special motion to strike.' As part of the documents, filed late last month, Kardashian also gave a sworn declaration in which she confessed to the blunder. Lawyers for Kardashian, seen here in February are looking to have the suit thrown out saying the post falls under anti-SLAPP laws Cantu, seen here, is said to have suffered emotional distress as a result of Kardashian's post In it, Kardashian explained her interest in law and how she had managed to get President Donald Trump to commute the sentence of Alice Marie Johnson in 2018. 'I engage in this work because I am passionate about it and without any commercial benefit or intent', she said. She added that she had learned of the case of Ivan Cantu, the death row inmate, and was 'moved' by his story and 'steadfast claim of innocence'. Kardashian said she instructed her social media team to start posting about Cantu and his case to raise awareness. They had used the same mugshot of Cantu throughout their posts until February 26 of last year when she said 'we decided to use a different picture of Mr. Cantu'. 'Unfortunately, in a story that was posted on my Instagram and Facebook accounts, we used a picture of a different Ivan Cantu', she said. Kardashian said in her declaration that the use of Cantu's picture was 'a mistake and was not done intentionally'. She said that had they been aware they would not have used the image and after finding out 'immediately' told her team to take it down. Kardashian signed the statement which was executed while she was in Venice for the wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez late last month. Kardashian was attempting to raise awareness of then Texas death row inmate Ivan Cantu, seen here, who was executed in the days after the post for a double murder Kardashian said in her declaration that the use of the wrong Cantu's picture, seen here, was 'a mistake and was not done intentionally' Her social media manager Travis White also gave a written statement to the court in which he said he did a Google search for more pictures of Cantu. White said: 'One of the publicly available images that my Google search yielded was a photo of plaintiff. 'When I selected Plaintiff's photo, I did so mistakenly and without realizing that it was a photo of Plaintiff and not Mr. Cantu, given that they share the same name.' White goes on to add that the use of the image was 'a mistake and was not done intentionally'. Attorney Greg Sobo, who represents Cantu, told the Daily Mail that he would beat the latest motion, adding that he hopes to move forward with discovery. He added: 'In my opinion it is the largest libel case in America and I think the settlement will reflect that.' The suit by Cantu cited libel and slander over the mix-up, saying Kardashian caused him serious emotional stress. Sobo said in the original filing that at the time of the posting she had over 350 million followers on her Instagram Defamation is classed as a false statement that harms someone's reputation, either in written terms, libel, or spoken, slander. Cantu's lawyers said there are few worse ways to harm someone's reputation than to wrongly accuse them of murdering two people. Kardashian signed the statement which was executed while she was in Venice for the wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez late last month, seen here Cantu had to post to his own social media after being confused with the death row inmate The suit claims that Kardashian intentionally shared the post, and was 'negligent, reckless and/or violated standards of ethics and decency.' Cantu is said to have suffered from embarrassment, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and counseling as a result of her actions. Sobo previously told the Daily Mail that Cantu was grieving a close family member at the time of the post, which was then amplified. Her post said: 'The state will execute Ivan Cantu in 2 days. Please sign the petition to demand that Collin County DA Greg Willis request to withdraw the execution date.' Alongside the text and link to the petition, she also shared an image of the wrong Ivan Cantu - who later posted on Facebook in an attempt to calm the situation. He said: 'To all my friends and family, I am not getting executed, some idiot who runs @kimkardashian used my picture of Ivan 'Abner' Cantu.' The suit said that the post exposed Cantu to 'hatred, contempt, ridicule and obloquy' due to his association with the double murder connected to the Texas inmate. The post was 'libelous and false', the suit added and caused injury to both his reputation and profession. In the filing his lawyers have also demanded a jury trial and are after compensatory damages. Cantu hasn't specified how much he is seeking in damages. Forbes estimates Kardashian's net worth at $1.7 billion dollars. Days after the post, Ivan Cantu was executed by authorities in Texas for the death of his cousin James Mosqueda and his cousin's girlfriend Amy Kitchen. Prosecutors said Cantu killed Mosqueda, who dealt illegal drugs, and Kitchen as he tried to steal cocaine, marijuana and cash from his cousins north Dallas home. The inmate, who was convicted in 2001, had long claimed a rival drug dealer killed his cousin in a dispute over money. Chinas internet giants intensify efforts to advance embodied AI, racing to boost productivity 10:09, July 23, 2025 By Zhang Weilan ( Global Times Chinese internet giants JD.com, Meituan, Alibaba and Tencent are intensifying efforts to fund projects that advance embodied intelligence systems, allowing AI to physically engage with the world. Instead of chasing flashy demos, these giants are wiring embodied artificial intelligence (AI) directly into their balance sheetsslashing last-mile logistics costs, enabling 24-hour unmanned pharmacies, and re-engineering retail services. E-commerce giant JD.com on Monday announced that it has invested in three robotics startups, Spirit AI, LimX Dynamics, and Engine AI, to strengthen its capabilities in embodied AI. In July, Meituan revealed investments in X Square Robot and Galaxea AI, two emerging players in the field of embodied intelligence. The two companies have also collaborated on projects such as unmanned pharmacies. Alibaba and Tencent have also participated in the financing of companies including Hangzhou-based Unitree Robotics, while Ant Group also established an embodied AI subsidiary, according to a report by news website Eastmoney.com on Monday. The moves come as the focus of competition in the global technology landscape has now shifted from large language models (LLMs) to embodied AI, a domain where global tech giants such as Tesla, Google's parent company Alphabet, Amazon, and Microsoft have also placed their bets, aiming to seize strategic advantage in next-gen general AI through a tightly integrated combination of software and hardware. Industry experts said that as major tech companies are orchestrating a three-pronged strategyinvestment, in-house R&D, and ecosystem partnershipsto integrate embodied AI into their core operations, the underlying logic is straightforward: leverage their own high-frequency sceneslogistics fleets, delivery networks, cloud commerce and local servicesto secure a leading position in the next tech frontier. According to data from marketing research company IT Juzi, in the first five months of 2025, 114 investment deals were recorded in the field of embodied intelligence, totaling 23.2 billion yuan ($3.23 billion) in financing, both exceeding the totals for the whole of 2024, Chinese business and financial media outlet Yicai reported. Insiders noted that the entry of these cash-rich giants is expected to compress iteration cycles of embodied AI, accelerate scenario-specific fine-tuning, and turn embodied AI into a scalable productivity engine across logistics, retail, and public services. Robot army "Following the boom in LLMs, embodied AI is the next must-win battlefield," said Wang He, founder and CTO of Beijing Galbot Co, the Beijing News reported. Wang argues that embodied AI is a crucial field driving manufacturing, production services, and creates new quality productive forces. "The most exciting era for humanoid robots, the era of productivity, is about to begin," he said. JD.com's interest in embodied AI aligns closely with its e-commerce and logistics operations, but its ambitions extend beyond external investments, according to the information the company shared with the Global Times. JD.com has so far invested over 1 billion yuan into R&D for home service robots. The first product focuses on cleaning and accompanying functions and is expected to be mass-produced in 2026, said the company. In March, JD.com established a dedicated embodied AI unit, recruiting Shen Hui, a former vice president at Chinese AI software company SenseTime, to lead the effort. In July, JD.com launched the JoyInside platform for robotics aimed at consolidating its years of work in intelligent interaction, particularly in customer service, digital avatars, and shopping assistance, said the company. The company is now prioritizing emerging technologies such as embodied intelligence and LLMs. It aims to build a comprehensive innovation ecosystem through both in-house development and external investments, particularly in supply chain applications. Wang Xing, founder and CEO of Meituan said during the company's Q4 2024 earnings call in March, "AI has greatly promoted the development of robot technology. Meituan will pay attention to and invest in start-up companies driving this wave. We will deepen partnerships with these young companies, weaving robotics and AI ever more tightly together." Emphasizing Meituan's ambition to act as the "bridge" between offline reality and the online world, he made clear that the firmrooted in retail servicesis laser-focused on putting AI to work in real-world, physical settings. Meituan has not only been expanding its influence in the field of embodied AI but has also gradually built an intelligent robot industrial ecosystem through investment, assembling a "robot army." According to incomplete statistics, Meituan has invested in more than 30 robot-related upstream and downstream enterprises and large-model companies, covering multiple sub fields such as delivery, service, cleaning, and medical care, which can be described as "buying half of the robot track," according to a 36Kr report. Wider applications China's robotics sector is rapidly expanding, driven by advances in embodied intelligence technologies that enable machines to interact physically with their surroundings. China had produced nearly 100 embodied AI robotic products since 2024, accounting for 70 percent of the global market, according to Du Guangda, an official of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, on April 26. China is the only country in the world with a complete industrial chain for manufacturing humanoid robots, encompassing production, supply, and sales service system, said Du when attending an industry forum held in Wuxi, East China's Jiangsu Province. In the 2025 government work report, China vowed to better integrate digital technologies with its manufacturing capabilities and market advantages. It will support the extensive application of large-scale AI models and develop new-generation intelligent terminals and smart manufacturing equipment, including intelligent connected new-energy vehicles and intelligent robots. As China steadily advances toward its high-quality development, fast-developing embodied AI technologies also contribute significantly with their applications in sectors such as pharmaceutical, service, retail and energy production, according to industry experts. Embodied AI integrates AI into physical bodies such as robots to enable them to perceive, learn and interact dynamically with the environment like humans, Jiang Lei, chief scientist of Shanghai-based National and Local Co-Built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center, told the Global Times on Tuesday. All these scenarios showcase how humanoid robots are quickly evolving to boost productivity and expand real-world use cases, Jiang added. According to a report from Head Leopard Shanghai Research Institute, China's embodied AI market size reached 418.6 billion yuan in 2023 and is projected to reach 632.8 billion yuan by 2027, driven by breakthroughs in AI technology, the Xinhua News Agency reported. (Web editor: Liang Jun, Zhong Wenxing) In the new episode of Daily Mail podcast - The Psychology of a Serial Killer, forensic psychiatrist Dr Andrew Johns and police surgeon Dr Harry Brujnes revisit a case that shocked 1930s Britain but has since been largely forgotten. The podcast examines history's most notorious medical murderers - those who pervert their positions of trust as doctors or nurses to prey on the public. The latest episode, released today focuses on the 1935 murders of Dr Buck Ruxton, a man so clinical in the disposal of his victims' bodies that the case broke ground in the fledgling field of forensic science. Listen to The Psychology of a Serial Killer below or by clicking here. In the latest episode of The Psychology of a Serial Killer, forensic psychiatrist Dr Andrew Johns (left) and police surgeon Dr Harry Brujnes (right) revisit a case that shocked 1930s Britain but has since been largely forgotten. Listen here. This episode focuses on the 1935 murders of Dr Buck Ruxton, a man so clinical in the disposal of his victims' bodies that the case broke ground in the fledgling field of forensic science The podcast will continue with an in-depth psychology of serial killer Dr Harold Shipman - subscribe now to The Crime Desk to listen The Dastardly Deeds of Dr Buck Ruxton Buck Ruxton was born in Mumbai, India in 1899. After qualifying as a doctor at the University of Bombay in 1922, Ruxton left his wife and child to set up a practice in Lancaster, northwest England. Originally named Bukhtyar Hakim, the young doctor chose the name Buck Ruxton upon arriving to Britain. By 1930, Ruxton had established himself in Lancaster and had begun a common law marriage with Isabella Kerr, a local woman. 'He was known to be a respected and compassionate doctor,' Dr Harry Brujnes told The Psychology of a Serial Killer podcast. 'Ruxton had three children with Isabella, and it appears his reputation and social standing in the community were very important to him.' Behind closed doors, Ruxton was vicious to his wife. Police were repeatedly called to domestic violence incidents, driven by his obsessive belief that Isabella was being unfaithful. In September 1935, the paranoia erupted. Ruxton instigated what became known as the jigsaw murders, due to how brutally mutilated his victims were. 'He strangled and repeatedly stabbed his wife to death', Dr Andrew Johns said. 'At the same time, he bludgeoned the housemaid, Mary Rogerson, as she had witnessed the event. 'Fifteen days later, the multiple, mutilated remains of the two bodies were found under a bridge near Moffat, Scotland. 'Autopsies confirmed that the bodies had been brutalised. The eyes, ears, lips, teeth and fingernails of the victims were clinically excised to make identification difficult.' Ruxton instigated what became known as the jigsaw murders, due to how brutally mutilated his victims were Isabella Ruxton was last seen on September 14, 1935. Dr. Ruxton claimed that she had gone with Mary Rogerson to Edinburgh, but her clothing was still in the house Dr Harry Brujnes: 'There are paralells to Jack the Ripper here.' Listen now 'There are parallels to Jack the Ripper here', Dr Harry Brujnes commented. 'Ruxton didn't just murder, he clinically and surgically dissected. He was clearly somebody with extensive anatomical knowledge. 'It's a horrific thought: one day, this woman is your wife and the next, you are cutting out her eyes.' Police already knew Ruxton well - he had made repeated tearful visits to the station, ranting about his wife's alleged affairs, claiming she had run-off with a lover. A speculative search of Ruxton's home revealed damning evidence - bloodstains on the stairs, in the bathroom, and throughout the house. He was arrested immediately. However, the bodies still couldn't be identified due to the doctor's surgical precision - threatening to derail any potential prosecution. Investigators employed the novel strategy of X-raying the skull of one of the bodies and superimposing it on a photograph of Isabella to confirm a match. The Ruxton case pioneered what is now known as forensic anthropology in criminal investigations. The bodies still couldn't be identified due to the doctor's surgical precision - threatening to derail any potential prosecution The skulls of Isabella and Mary were the recent subject of a BBC appeal by Edinburgh University, who are seeking relatives of the women to finally lay their remains to rest Dr Andrew Johns explained what happened next: 'The Trial opened in March 1936 at Manchester High Court the prosecution called numerous witnesses to support the case that inflamed by jealousy, Ruxton had committed two murders. 'The sole witness to testify on behalf of the defence was Ruxton himself. He conducted himself poorly on the stand, prone to hysterical sobbing and rambling statements. 'The jury would deliberate for just one hour before returning a guilty verdict. 'Despite a petition from Lancaster residents containing 10,000 signatures, which urged clemency for Ruxton he was hanged at Her Majesty's Prison, Manchester.' The skulls of Isabella and Mary were the recent subject of a BBC appeal by Edinburgh University, who are seeking relatives of the women to finally lay their remains to rest. To hear more horrifying detail about the Ruxton case, search for The Psychology of a Serial Killer. Out now, wherever you get your podcasts. Sore corners In case you missed it, Four Corners poured a steaming bucket of s*** on Melbourne neurosurgeon Greg Malham this week, digging up plenty of (alleged) dirt on the man who was infamously filmed tearing down a Monique Ryan corflute. But Professor Malham wasn't the only one in a bad mood after Monday's broadcast. Sydney doctor Yumiko Kadota was interviewed for the program, sharing her experience of the 'toxic culture' she witnessed first-hand in hospitals while a neurosurgery resident. But Dr Kadota, who is now a cosmetic physician after burnout ended her career as a young surgeon, was quietly edited out of the program when it went to air - surprising, as she'd been included in the trailer. She was upset by the snub, having only been told two hours beforehand. Dr Kadota said that while she understood the ABC's investigation had taken a different direction since she filmed her interview on the King's Birthday public holiday, being 'cancelled... [at] the last minute' nonetheless triggered her rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and caused an 'autistic meltdown'. She described filming the interview only for it to be cut as 'unpaid emotional labour', and also bemoaned what she saw as the lack of diversity among healthcare workers featured in the broadcast. Sydney doctor Yumiko Kadota was interviewed for Monday's Four Corners. She expressed her disappointment at being left on the cutting room floor with just two hours' notice The investigation was fronted by veteran reporter Louise Milligan, who shared a friendly interaction with Dr Kadota on Instagram the day the show aired An ABC spokeswoman pointed out that Dr Kadota was in the Four Corners digital story - even though she didn't make the episode - and that the program's makers had spoken to her at length prior to the broadcast. The investigation was fronted by Louise Milligan - an ABC veteran who never misses an opportunity to tell you she used to be a model before finding her calling as a reporter... or so we are told. Interestingly, Milligan had shared a friendly interaction with Dr Kadota on Instagram the day the show aired, so it's quite possible even she didn't know the good doctor had been left on the cutting room floor. Inside Mail contacted Dr Kadota for comment via her cosmetic clinic's reception. The latest episode of Four Corners concerned neurosurgeon Greg Malham, who became infamous during the federal election campaign for tearing down a Monique Ryan corflute Dr Kadota understood the ABC's probe had taken a different direction, but said being cancelled at the last minute triggered her rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and an 'autistic meltdown' A star is born The Liberals may be stuck in the political wilderness, but over at Sky News HQ, the conservative star factory never stops. Network insiders say there are 'big plans' for contributor Freya Leach, who has been filling in on The Late Debate since Liz Storer was shown the door seven weeks ago. The rumour is she is getting her own show. We're told the timeslot is Sunday at 6pm, but we've had no confirmation about the format. So, who is Ms Leach? Dux of St Andrew's Cathedral School class of 2020, her right-wing credentials are second to none. Her father is Reverend Mark Leach, the man behind Christian Zionist outfit 'Never Again is Now', which rallies non-Jews to take a stand against antisemitism. When she's not firing off conservative talking points on Sky News, Freya moonlights for the Menzies Research Centre as its director of the 'Centre for Youth Policy'. Sky News insiders say there are 'big plans' in motion for contributor Freya Leach, who has been filling in on The Late Debate since Liz Storer was shown the door seven weeks ago When we reported last week that Leach was filling in for Storer after her axing, we heard she was gobsmacked to see her name in the headlines. She apparently told friends it must have been a 'slow news day' at the Daily Mail. She sells herself short. We keep hearing from Sky News sources that she is a 'rising star' and they 'like her a lot upstairs'. Bash the Bishop Former Foreign Minister and self-styled fashion queen Julie Bishop is copping heat for living it up at Dubai's five-star Atlantis Hotel - where rooms go for upwards of $1,000 a night - while the university she leads plunges into crisis. Now Chancellor of the Australian National University, Bishop shared a glitzy Instagram reel from her birthday soiree, just weeks after ANU announced $250million budget cuts that left dozens jobless and sent shockwaves through campus. But not everyone was loving Bishop's 'let them eat birthday cake' moment. 'Dear ANU, your leadership is with you - just let me finish this 10-course supper in Dubai,' one commenter wrote. 'Fifty-nine ANU staff lost their job this month because of... your leadership. Cheers to that, Julie,' another chimed in. Julie Bishop is copping heat for living it up at Dubai's five-star Atlantis Hotel - where rooms go for upwards of $1,000 a night The chiefs of the 'No Cuts at ANU' campaign say Bishop 'deserves to be sacked for putting profit over our education'. Luckily, she has the support of her famous friend Tyra Banks (right) 'Happy YOU Day, Julie,' she wrote Lucy Chapman-Kelly, co-convener of the 'No Cuts at ANU' campaign, didnt mince words when speaking to Inside Mail. 'Julie Bishop and Genevieve Bell deserve to be sacked for putting profit over our education. ANU students and staff won't stop fighting until we achieve a reversal of [the cuts],' she said. But amid the fury, a little birthday glitter did land in the comments - courtesy of Americas Next Top Model star and newly minted Sydneysider Tyra Banks. 'Happy YOU Day, Julie,' she wrote. We can hazard a guess that ANU staff and students won't be smizing at Bishop's holiday snaps. Blind gossip trouble There's an old saying in this business: today's gossip is tomorrow's news. So Inside Mail notes with interest that a certain media identity - who shall remain nameless - is now the subject of damaging blind gossip on the shadier corners of the internet. What are the rumours? Nothing criminal, but we've heard this individual likes to try his luck with younger women starting out in the industry. He isn't the first - won't be the last. However, one of these women has spoken out anonymously to say her encounter with this man had a profound effect on her. She claims she's not the only one. We can't say who it is - yet - but this isn't the sort of story that stays quiet for long. The subjects of this blind item are not mentioned or pictured elsewhere in this column. 'Cheap and nasty' With parliament returning this week for the first set of new sittings, the Governor-General held a BBQ at her Canberra residence to welcome the newly elected MPs. You might've expected her to put on a good spread. Not so, say our disappointed spies, who claim the sausage sizzle was 'cheap and nasty'. 'There were only sausages nothing else - not even a salad. They were cold and undercooked. I had to grab something to eat after I left, it was that bad,' one newly elected MP tells us. 'There wasnt even any alcohol,' another unimpressed new MP lamented. Perhaps the GG wants to lead by example cutting costs in tough economic times? Or maybe she just wanted to get rid of all the unwanted guests as quickly as possible? Take-it-easy Albanese The prime minister was keen, ahead of the first sitting week, to claim undeserved credit for recalling parliament earlier than required - supposedly because his agenda was so full. Really? Officially, parliament must sit within three months of the election date, which means Albo brought parliament back just a week earlier than the latest possible date allowed. Hardly an early start! Especially when you consider how light this week actually is: Monday was a day off. Tuesday was all pomp and ceremony, with no Question Time. Parliament wraps up on Thursday. Then MPs and senators head home for another day off on Friday. We know MPs work hard, including in their home states. But nearly three months on from election day, the first sitting week was about as slow a start as possible. Seven's bid to beat The Block Seven is dusting off its toolbelt and heading back into the renovation game. Inside Mail can reveal the network is officially casting for a brand-new reno show, with insiders dubbing it the network's 'most ambitious move in years'. A casting notice circulated this week spruiks the yet-to-be-titled show as 'bigger, bolder, and more life changing than any other reno show' and calls for 'dynamic duos who are either renovators, tradies or just ready to take on the ultimate challenge'. It's not just the houses getting a makeover - Seven is apparently forking out up to $18million on the series in a 'major reinvestment'. The network took a year off home renovation shows in 2025 after shelving Dream Home, hosted by star recruit Dr Chris Brown. Despite a promotional blitz and a plum timeslot, the series failed to gain traction in 2024 amid reports of ballooning production costs and behind-the-scenes difficulties. 'This new show has proper backing,' said our Seven source. Seven's long-running renovation hit House Rules wrapped in 2020 after eight seasons. Attempts to revive it under a new banner - including the spin-off Apartment Rules, teased at the 2022 Upfronts - never made it to air. But now, say insiders, Seven is hoping its new format can do what House Rules never could: challenge The Block on Nine. We'll believe it when we see it. 'I should know this' He may be a Twitter villain, but we love the ABC's David Speers here at Inside Mail. And while we acknowledge he is one of the best political journalists around, he clearly needs to work on his knowledge of parliamentary procedures - judging by his lacklustre performance on Tuesday covering the opening of the new parliament. We love David Speers here at Inside Mail, but he clearly needs to work on his knowledge of parliamentary procedures While providing commentary on pictures of the official opening, Speers sounded less knowledgeable than a Year 10 student about to start their compulsory civics course. His lack of knowledge about parliamentary formalities and procedures was somewhat staggering. 'Is this the bit where they bang the door?' 'Who is the Black Rod?' Seriously, this is a gallery veteran who has covered this for decades. 'I really should know this stuff,' Speers added in a moment of self-reflection. At least he was honest. Still, we'd rather listen to Speers stumbling his way through the dull procedural elements of parliamentary practice than be moralised to by some of his self-righteous colleagues. Jackie O back in town after stalker hell No one likes heading back to work after an overseas trip, but the post-holiday blues must be doubly hard on radio queen Jackie 'O' Henderson. While she was in Fiji with her daughter, her alleged stalker David Gourlay, 38, was arrested while sitting on a bench outside her eastern suburbs home. Police claim they found a 10-15cm bolt inside a sock after searching his satchel. The investigation began after the KIIS FM presenter complained to police that Gourlay had bombarded her with messages on Instagram. He has been hit with a raft of stalking charges and was refused bail. We snapped Jackie 'O' Henderson returning to Sydney last Saturday While she was on holiday in Fiji, her alleged stalker David Gourlay, 38, was arrested while sitting on a bench outside her eastern suburbs home Crystal mess A few weeks ago, gossip columnist Lucy Manly was shocked to discover a baggie of crystal meth in her mailbox - sent anonymously from somewhere in Punchbowl. After reporting the dodgy delivery in The Group Chat, she was in for another surprise. Andrew O'Keefe - whose fondness for the glass barbecue is legendary - had just started following her on Instagram. Now, we're not suggesting Andrew sent the drugs in some roundabout pursuit of a good time - he doesn't live anywhere near Punchbowl. Still, if he was looking for a partner to share the ice pipe with, he's out of luck. The suspicious package is now in the hands of the Bondi vice squad. In February, fallen TV star Andrew O'Keefe pleaded guilty to driving with ice in his system O'Keefe (pictured at a Bondi massage shop on November 7 last year) recently started following a Daily Mail reporter on Instagram after she was mistakenly sent a baggie of meth in the post Dodged a bullet? The traditional church service on Tuesday morning, when parliament is sitting, sees the PM and Opposition leader in the front row - an opportunity to put political hostilities aside, if only briefly. So when Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie was rushed to the frow to sit with Albo, it quickly became apparent the usher had mistakenly thought she was Sussan Ley. McKenzie politely pointed out that she wasn't Ley, but acknowledged she 'gets that a lot', easing some of the usher's embarrassment. Never one to miss the chance to chime in, Albo joked 'they're the same!' a few times, before suddenly realising his comment could be taken as a reference to their looks. He hastily covered up his gaffe by saying it was the Nationals and Liberals who were the same - a reference to the Coalition reconciling after their post-election divorce. The question now is: was Albo backtracking from an offhand sexist remark about two women who look similar, or simply clarifying his original meaning? Only he knows. When it comes to gender, the Coalition are the ones with all the problems, as the number of women they have in parliament and on the frontbench continues to fall. Labor, on the other hand, now has gender parity. But squaring off against the Liberal Party's first female leader, who is no shrinking violet, Albo will need to be particularly mindful of his words. Election autopsy under way Despite being trounced at the federal election, the Liberals are putting on a brave face upon their return to Canberra. The beleaguered party held a fundraiser at the National Press Club on Tuesday to try to rally their supporters, reminding them how the political pendulum can swing back quickly. We'll see about that - given the latest Newspoll puts the opposition in an even worse position than it was at the election. The commissioned authors of the official Liberal Party election review - which is still ongoing - were in town this week. They include former Howard government minister Nick Minchin and former NSW state minister Pru Goward. The pairing means the factional right and left of the party are equally represented. Neither Minchin nor Goward attended the National Press Club event, which is probably the right thing to do to maintain a semblance of independence while reviewing. We spotted Goward dining at nearby restaurant Chairman & Yip while the fundraiser was under way, where she also had a nice little chat with Labor's deputy PM Richard Marles. No input for the reviews findings was offered by the Labor stalwart, we are assured. And no date has been announced for when the review will be finalised either, nor if it will be made public. Minchin and Goward are in Canberra this week to interview various political types as they work on their findings. They'll do the same again when parliament is back next week. Mates' rates On the first day of Question Time for the new parliament, the PM did one morning media interview. Was it with Radio National? No. Perhaps a cross to Sunrise and Today? Wrong again. The single interview Albo chose to give on the morning of his return to Question Time in parliament went to his friends Kyle and Jackie O. It's the surest sign yet that, in the modern media landscape, Canberra strategists see the most value in getting in front of audiences who pay very little attention to what politicians are actually doing. An effort is under way among some Pentagon officials to denounce Pete Hegseth as unfit to serve as Defense Secretary, DailyMail.com can reveal. Since May, drafts of a letter have been circulating among high and mid-level military brass and civilian workers to 'Let the American public know this guy has no clue what he's doing,' one of them told DailyMail.com. Sean Parnell, the department's chief spokesman, came to his boss' defense characterizing the letter as 'palace intrigue' or 'sensationalized mainstream media gossip' that he said Americans 'don't care about.' 'They care about action,' reads his statement. Three Pentagon officials two military and one civilian, and each with at least 20 years in the department spoke on the condition of anonymity. Aside from losing their jobs, they fear prosecution by Donald Trump's administration, and being replaced by people with less experience who would be less apt to challenge some of Hegseth's decisions. Each said the letter calling for his ouster won't be made public until next week at the earliest. They described its contents in the meantime - with complaints ranging from politicized decision-making to department-wide dysfunction, low morale, and a climate of paranoia driven by what they describe as Hegseth's obsession with rooting out dissent. Pete Hegseth is facing calls from his own staff at the Pentagon to be removed as Secretary of Defense, inside sources tell Daily Mail The former Fox News host and fitness buff has been branded 'unfit to serve' as the defense chief, in a scathing letter denouncing his leadership They also pointed to his preoccupation with optics, citing his installation of a makeup studio inside the Pentagon, his staged photo ops lifting weights with the troops, and his new grooming and shaving policy for servicemen. 'He has branded himself the epitome of his so-called 'warrior ethos' that he's always talking about,' one insider said, adding that Hegseth appears to be reshaping the military into 'a cross between a sweat lodge and WWE.' They said the letter decries the Defense Secretary for issuing orders and setting policies without considering or even hearing input from intelligence, security and legal advisors. As all three insiders told us, the letter also cites dysfunction and chaos in the department due to what they said are Hegseth's inattention to, indecision on, and inconsistencies regarding several military matters, big and small. Those include defining the role the U.S. military should play in space and setting a realistic timeline for building the 'Golden Dome' missile defense system, a top military goal for Trump. They also include clarifying the channels by which Pentagon personnel should and should not communicate with each other. One insider said Hegseth's top aides are clamping down on contact between workers, even when there's no security, professional or ethical reason to do so. The insiders described what they perceive as Hegseth's extreme distrust of the military and civilian personnel who work in the Pentagon, especially senior staffers who speak out when best practices are sidestepped or institutional memory ignored. They said Hegseth's preoccupation with sussing out leakers and critics in the department has caused bureaucratic logjams, brought some basic, but essential military business to a standstill and triggered a sense of paranoia throughout the building. One of the officials said that some Pentagon personnel feel pressured to attend the Christian prayer services Hegseth has arranged during work hours, even though they're supposed to be optional. The former Fox News personality and fitness buff was reported to have installed a makeup studio at the Pentagon and insists on being photographed working out with the troops He was seen pumping iron and jogging outdoors in photos shared on social media in February, during a trip to Germany to visit senior military leaders at US command centers Sean Parnell, the department's chief spokesman, came to his boss's defense late Wednesday, characterizing the letter as 'sensationalized, mainstream media gossip' that he said Americans 'don't care about' Staffers have cited Hegseth's tendency to issue orders and set policies without considering - or even hearing - input from intelligence, security and legal advisors, such as his decision to deploy 4,000 National Guard troops in response to protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles Two spoke of disdain among many Defense officials about the Secretary's preoccupation with optics token gestures they said have little to do with defense. They cited the makeup studio the former Fox News personality and fitness buff had installed at the Pentagon and his insistence on being photographed lifting weights and doing push ups with troops. 'Sure, he wants everyone as fit as he is. But he also wants everyone noticing how he looks,' an insider said. Aside from Hegseth's review of fitness standards, he also has focused on military grooming, including specific instructions on how members should shave. Under his new policy, soldiers with a skin condition that causes razor bumps and affects mainly Black men could be discharged from service. One insider pointed to current tensions in Europe and Asia, and full-out war spanning from the north to the south of the Middle East, and said: 'With everything that's happening in the world, he's choosing to focus on razor bumps. Seriously?' One also cited last month's mobilization of about 4,000 National Guard troops in response to protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles as an example of Hegseth ignoring his department's advice. 'Nobody in the building thought that was a wise idea,' one of the insiders said. Few in the Pentagon also support Hegseth's efforts to undo diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and eradicate what he calls 'wokeness' in the military by restoring the names of military bases that had previously honored Confederate generals. That insider said Hegseth's repeated criticism of diversity policies has led to 'far more' racist incidents than before the Secretary took office. He noted that Hegseth's anti-wokeness agenda also has prompted suspicions among many non-white service members and DOD staffers that their job performance is being scrutinized more closely than those of their white colleagues. 'Some people are being looked at as if they don't deserve their positions,' he said. 'The effect that has on productivity can't be overstated.' Parnell, the Pentagon spokesman, credits Hegseth with 'record-high' recruiting numbers, European allies' agreement to meet Trump's 5% defense spending target, and what he called the 'flawless success' of the U.S. bombing Iranian nuclear sites on June 22. 'Secretary Hegseth has successfully reoriented the Department of Defense to put the interests of America's Warfighters and America's taxpayers first, and it has never been better positioned to execute on its mission than it is today,' his statement reads. 'The DoD's historic accomplishments thus far are proof of Secretary Hegseth's bold leadership and commitment to the American people and our men and women in uniform.' The three Pentagon officials we spoke with told us that a small group of their colleagues including officers from all military branches except for the Coast Guard and some civilian workers met at a private home in May to discuss how to get the word out about what they view as Hegseth's incompetence. They agreed the message would be stronger coming from current rather than retired DOD personnel. Attendees jointly decided to give themselves a few months to agree on the wording of a joint letter that they would either send to the news media, run as an ad in a major newspaper or launch online via social media or a newly created web site. They set a deadline for mid-July this week to finalize the letter so it could be made public by next Friday, the 25th, which marks Hegseth's half-year in office. The letter is written but, as the planned launch date nears, organizers are undecided about whether it should be signed only by the few people willing to jeopardize their careers, or if there's a way to organize broader engagement throughout the military by protecting signers' identities. The group is in discussion with a public relations advisor, tech consultant and community organizers in hopes of finding a way to broadcast their complaints far and wide throughout the U.S. while limiting the risk of retaliation. Trump, at least outwardly, has been steadfast in supporting Hegseth Hegseth, pictured on Monday, has also been criticized over his preoccupation with optics and token gestures that seem to have little to do with defense 'We need to believe it's possible,' one of the officials told us, adding that a solution, if one exists, may not be feasible before next week. The effort comes after Hegseth a former Army National Guard officer who had limited experience running large, complicated organizations got off to a bumpy start leading the country's biggest bureaucracy. During his confirmation process, critics raised concerns about his treatment of women and issues with alcohol. Three Republican senators, including Mitch McConnell, voted against his appointment, and Vice President J.D. Vance cast a tie-breaking vote. Less than two months into his tenure as defense secretary, a group of national security leaders discussed a planned military strike against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen on a group chat using a nonsecure group chat on Signal that accidentally included the editor of The Atlantic magazine. The 'Signalgate' scandal caused two of Hegseth's top aides and the chief of staff to the deputy defense secretary to be booted from the Pentagon. Trump ultimately fired National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who organized the chat. Meanwhile, several outlets reported that Hegseth shared sensitive information about the attack in a second Signal text chain with his brother, lawyer and wife. Trump, at least outwardly, has been steadfast in supporting Hegseth, who arranged for the military parade the president long had wanted, but was denied by Pentagon officials in his first term in office. Hegseth also embraces Trump's 'America First' ideas. The Secretary's willingness to carry out Trump's isolationist goals was starkly clear this week when he abruptly pulled about a dozen high-ranking military speakers from the Aspen Security Forum. The four-day summit in Colorado has for years drawn officials from Republican and Democratic administrations to publicly share ideas with the world's leading national security and foreign policy experts. In a statement to Just the News, Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson derided the event for promoting 'the evil of globalism, disdain for our great country, and hatred for the President of the United States.' One attendee of the conference told DailyMail.com last Thursday that the Defense Department's absence from the event is a 'worrisome sign' that Hegseth is sealing the military off from outside opinions and potentially helpful input. Another called the cancellation 'boneheaded.' A major international financial body has been accused of rigging data in order to make Brexit seem like a failure. Klaus Schwab, 87, the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF), is alleged to have asked staff to lower the UK's standing in a table ranking countries' economic productivity, the Financial Times reported. Published annually, the WEF's 2017/2018 Global Competitiveness Report should have shown the UK jumping from seventh to forth due to a change in how the data was presented, according to a leak published by Swiss newpaper SonntagsZeitung. But instead the final table showed Britain falling one position to eight place. 'Brexit... will by definition weaken the UK's markets component,' the report said. It is alleged the reason for the supposed revised ranking was a direct intervention from Mr Schwab. The Swiss newspaper reported that he wrote to staff to say that the UK 'must not see any improvement' as such results would be 'exploited by the Brexit camp' to claim the UK's departure from the EU was a success. The World Economic Forum is an international advocacy non-governmental organization and think tank, based in Geneva, Switzerland, which hosts the annual 'Davos' summit which attracts high-profile figures from the world of politics, business and showbusiness each year. It was founded in January 1971 by Mr Schwab, initially as the European Management Forum, before being rebranded as the WEF in 1987. World Economic Forum founder and former chairman Klaus Schwab attends a session during the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos on January 21, 2025 Brexit supporters dressed in Union flag-themed clothes, pose for a photograph as they wait for the festivities to begin in Parliament Square, the venue for the Leave Means Leave Brexit Celebration in central London on January 31, 2020, the day that the UK formally leaves the European Union Klaus Schwab is pictured speaking with Britain's King Charles Mr Schwab is also accused of submitting personal expenses to the tune of 835,000 that was not sufficiently linked to his duties at the WEF, where he stood down as chairman in April this year. Additionally there are claims that he made inappropriate remarks to younger members of staff. The spate of allegations against him stem from an internal Forum probe launched following complaints made by a whistleblower. The investigation was conducted by Homburger, a law firm in Zurich. News of the UK's alleged changed ranking was met with fury by some of the key figures behind the Brexit campaign. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage told The Telegraph: 'Every conspiracy theory about Klaus Schwab now turns out to be true. He is a dangerous globalist manipulator.' Shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel added: 'For such a senior figure in geopolitical affairs to have conspired and manipulated information against Brexit and the democratic outcome of a political process is a stain on the reputation of the WEF and those who are part of that forum, and it is thoroughly unacceptable.' Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called Mr Schwab, whose organisation hosts the annual Davos summit, 'a dangerous globalist manipulator' US President Donald Trump, left, speaks with Klaus Schwab, chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos, Switzerland, is pictured. WEF holds an annual summit in the Swiss Alpine region In a statement on Sunday, Mr Schwab said he felt 'deceived' since he claimed to have cooperated with the inquiry on the basis that neither side would speak to the media. 'I feel deceived,' Mr Schwab said. 'I am not available for further investigations.' Interviews conducted amid the probe into his behaviour reportedly found that Schwab repeatedly used fear and intimidation to manipulate WEF employees and treated the organisation like a 'fiefdom', while making 'suggestive' remarks to a senior female executive. The findings also allege Schwab and his wife Hilde, 79, reportedly filed more than $1 million in travel expenses deemed questionable by investigators, along with several foreign trips seemingly unrelated to business. Founded by Schwab in 1971 as the European Management Forum, WEF began as a small gathering aimed at improving European business by enlisting the support of successful American corporations. Over the decades, it has transformed into a high-profile annual summit in Davos, Switzerland, where CEOs, leading entrepreneurs and minds from various sectors converge to debate the world's biggest challenges, from climate change and technological disruption to geopolitical instability and inequality. It has also been harshly criticised as a symbol of globalisation and an exclusive club for the wealthy and powerful that exercises outsized power over policymakers. The World Economic Forum have been approached for comment. A teenage boy arrested for brutally murdering a female paddleboarder was known by his classmates to be a 'bully' at school, it has emerged. Deven Young, 17, was taken into custody last Wednesday night and charged with beating and strangling Sunshine Stewart, 48, to death in Union, Maine. Her body was found on July 3. The murder came hours after Stewart set off alone to paddleboard on Crawford Pond, a popular recreation spot near the campground where she was staying. Now, people who grew up with Young have spoken out about what he was really like. One childhood friend said Young had bullied kids since preschool, and two other people who knew him said in separate interviews that the accused murderer would regularly get in trouble for fighting, according to Bangor Daily News. Another classmate, however, said he never saw Young bully people himself. Jaxon Mushero, 18, a friend of Young's who knew him since they met in third grade at Leroy H. Smith School in Winterport, said they talked on the phone in June. He said Young seemed 'a little off' during the call but not to a concerning degree. Speaking about the charges brought against Young, Mushero said: 'Just finding out, seeing that just shocks me. It really does. That was my childhood best friend. I grew up with him.' Deven Young (pictured) who was arrested for brutally murdering a female paddleboarder was known by his classmates to be a 'bully' at school Deven Young, 17, was taken into custody last Wednesday night and charged with beating and strangling Sunshine Stewart, 48, to death in Union Maine Sunshine Stewart, 48, was found dead in the early hours of July 3 after she set off for a solo paddleboarding excursion in Crawford Pond, in Union, Maine Stewart had been staying at the Mic Mac Campground in Union, Maine, where she planned to spend the summer living out of her camper Young is charged with murder as a juvenile in Knox County. Court documents obtained by Maine's Total Coverage state that Young 'did intentionally or knowingly cause the death of another human being, namely Sunshine Stewart, or did engage in conduct that manifested a depraved indifference to the value of human life and which in fact caused the death of Sunshine Stewart.' Young appeared in a Knox County courtroom on Friday morning via Zoom, where he denied responsibility for Stewart's death. Meanwhile, the Office of the Maine Attorney General has filed a motion for Young, who will turn 18 in September, to be tried as an adult. If Young's case remains in juvenile court and he is convicted, his sentence cannot exceed his 21st birthday. However, if the case goes to adult court and he is convicted, he faces at least 25 years in prison. The teenager spends vacation time in the Crawford Pond area each summer with his family, an official familiar with the investigation told ABC News. Young's home in Frankfort is approximately 38 miles from the pond. Stewart rented a camp site at Mic Mac Family Campground in Crawford Pond for the summer season on May 1. She had only stayed on the camp grounds for two or three nights before she disappeared on July 2, after last being seen leaving her camper to go paddleboarding at around 6pm. Any connection between Stewart and Young are not known. News of the murder left locals in the tightknit community of Union terrified. Meredith Smith, a childhood friend of Stewart's, told the Daily Mail she was shocked by the news of Young's arrest. 'Part of me is relieved that someone has been arrested, but the other part says this is far from over because I feel like there's still so much more to this story that we don't know,' said Smith. 'Sunshine was strong and feisty; she would've put up a fight... she would've given this person hell.' The Office of the Maine Attorney General has filed a motion for Young, who will turn 18 in September, to be tried as an adult Young's last post on the platform, dated July 12, included an image of a boat moored in a lake at sunset. Its not clear where the image was taken Stewart a marine biologist, lobsterman, bartender, and boat captain died by strangulation and blunt force trauma When Stewart a marine biologist, lobsterman, bartender, and boat captain had still not returned by the early hours of July 3, someone raised the alarm. Before dawn broke, a search and rescue drone spotted Stewart's paddleboard drifting alone. Her body was later discovered along the southeast shore of 100 Acre Island, a nature preserve in the middle of the pond. Police have not confirmed any details of how Stewart's body was found, or in what condition, sharing only that the circumstances were 'unusual.' For now, Young was ordered to continue to be detained at Long Creek Youth Correctional Facility in South Portland. The 17-year-old is scheduled to appear in court again on August 22. Daily Mail has reached out to Young's defense attorney and the Office of the Attorney General for comment. Gisele Fetterman said she 'wouldn't be supportive' if her husband, Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, ran for president, admitting in an interview with Meghan McCain that she no longer feels safe on the campaign trail. Fetterman sat down with McCain at her home in Braddock, Pennsylvania as she promoted her new book, Radical Tenderness: The Value of Vulnerability in an Often Unkind World. The Daily Mail obtained early clips of the interview that will air on Wednesday at 12 p.m. ET on 2Way's Citizen McCain program. 'I mean that's a question for him, but I certainly wouldn't be supportive,' Fetterman answered when asked if Sen. Fetterman had White House ambitions. While he's mostly voted the party line, Sen. Fetterman has been willing to take unconventional positions - supporting Israel through the Gaza war, defending Immigration and Customs Enforcement amid President Donald Trump's controversial mass deportation plan - even visiting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago before the president's term began. McCain, the daughter of the late Sen. John McCain, a Republican who was credited with often having 'maverick' positions, told Fetterman that she liked her husband because he's been 'very interesting in a time of boring cowards.' The Citizen McCain host then asked how Fetterman has survived being a prominent political spouse while at the same time being a sensitive person - the concept Fetterman's book tackles. Fetterman responded that her husband running for U.S. Senate would have never been her idea. Gisele Fetterman said she 'wouldn't be supportive' if her husband, Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, ran for president, admitting in an interview with Meghan McCain that she no longer feels safe on the campaign trail 'That's his choice,' she explained. 'I can support him if that's what he wants to do. I wouldn't try to stop someone from wanting to do something. Sure. But I would never say, this is what I think you should do. I think you should run for Senate. That never would've been my, my idea for him.' McCain then asked if Fetterman liked campaigning. 'I have liked campaigning at different times in my life,' she answered. 'I don't think I like it anymore.' 'I don't feel safe in a lot of spaces,' Fetterman added in a clip exclusively shared with the Daily Mail. In her book, Fetterman - a Brazilian-American and former undocumented Dreamer - detailed a scary moment when a woman saw her at a Pittsburgh Aldi grocery store and hurled racist insults in her direction, following her out to the parking lot. 'She was calling me a thief and telling me I "dont belong in this country." She said I had "ruined Johns bloodline,"' Fettterman wrote in her book. 'I was frozen, in shock. The hate and darkness in her face was, frankly, terrifying.' Fetterman admitted to McCain, 'I think it's been a while since I really felt safe.' McCain pointed out that Fetterman has received more death threats than her husband, an elected official. Gisele Fetterman (Ieft) told Meghan McCain that she no longer likes campaigning explaining, 'I don't feel safe in a lot of spaces.' She's captured on the campaign trail in Pittsburgh alongside her husband, then Lt. Gov. John Fetterman (right), who was running for a U.S. Senate seat Meghan McCain (right) interviewed Gisele Fetterman (left) for her 2WAY show Citizen McCain, which will be released in full at noon Wednesday. The interview was conducted in Fetterman's home in Braddock, Pennsylvania, located just outside of Pittsburgh Gisele Fetterman argued that the experience wasn't unique to her - and some people have shrugged it off by saying, 'this is what you signed up for ... like this is normal.' 'I still challenge that this isn't normal. This shouldn't be normal,' Fetterman argued. She said that the couple's three kids have found it challenging to navigate their parents becoming public figures, and have shared their frustrations with their mother. 'If we're at the mall, they try to walk ahead, or walk behind. We've learned different ways to cope. We know this is the reality,' she said. In the book, Fetterman wrote about how important it is to be truthful to her three kids, recounting a conversation the Fettermans had with eldest son Karl when he found out a friend's parents were getting a divorce. Karl then asked his parents: 'Would you and Dad ever get divorced?' While the senator said no, Fetterman said 'maybe.' 'John was, understandably, surprised by my response,' Fetterman wrote. 'But I explained that, though I loved him and hoped we'd always be together, I wanted to be realistic and honest with the kids about all of life's possibilities.' Sen. John Fetterman (left) and Gisele Fetterman (right) pose for a selfie with 2024 Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris (center) during a September 2024 campaign stop in Johnstown, Pennsylvania Gisele Fetterman brushed off divorce rumors during her interview with Meghan McCain. 'No, I mean, I feel like Michelle Obama or, you know, Hailey Beiber. Every day it's a different story about them,' Fetterman said During their interview McCain asked Fetterman about divorce rumors that have swirled around the couple, especially in the aftermath of a New York Magazine story that was published in May that suggested they didn't see eye-to-eye on the war in Gaza. 'I try not to read anything,' Fetterman said when McCain alluded to the rumors. 'So I really don't pay attention to the noise. So I don't know what they're writing ... I don't really listen to it. And I think that's the only way to get through it is to not.' McCain said that 'there's been unkind things said about your marriage' and asked Fetterman if she wanted an opportunity to clear anything up about it. 'No, I mean, I feel like Michelle Obama or, you know, Hailey Bieber. Every day it's a different story about them,' Fetterman responded. 'Journalists, just even serious journalists now, are just like going for the click,' she added. Former Republican Rep. George Santos reports to jail on Friday - where he'll be serving a seven-year sentence for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The fabulist gay ex-New York lawmaker sat down in the Poconos for an episode of the new podcast Sources Say with Juliegrace Brufke where he claimed a group of Republican members - mostly from New York - have pushed House Speaker Mike Johnson to tell President Donald Trump not to pardon him, an assertion several of them have denied. He also insisted in excerpts shared exclusively with the Daily Mail that he still wants to serve his time in protective custody instead of being forced to spend time with the general prison population. 'I'd rather be seven years alone then risk rape, gang-banged, shivved, killed, strangled, bullied,' he told Brufke, a Capitol Hill reporter with 24Sight News. 'It's a death sentence most likely for a gay man, look at the statistics. It's the truth,' he later added. During his first six months in office for the second time, Trump has embraced his role as pardoner-in-chief, doling out pardons to some controversial convicts including Virginia Sheriff Scott Jenkins, who was handing out deputy sheriff badges in exchange for cash. Trump also pardoned reality TV star couple Todd and Julie Chrisley, but Santos complained, 'I can't get past the gatekeepers,' to make the plea to the Republican president for himself. 'And I've tried relentlessly, but unfortunately I hit a wall when, you know - he denies it, he denies it, he denied it to me in text but I don't believe him unfortunately, Mike Johnson, a lot of people have said he's being, I guess, coerced by Nick LaLota, Andrew Garbarino, Mike Lawler and Nick Langworthy and Nicole Malliotakis, along with Max Miller, to not pardon me or else they would vote down the agenda,' Santos claimed. LaLota, Garbarino, Lawler, Langworthy and Malliotakis all represent New York, like Santos did during his short tenure in Congress, while Miller, who served in the president's first administration, is a congressman from Ohio. Former Rep. George Santos (pictured) said in a pre-prison interview with Juliegrace Brufke, a Capitol Hill reporter who writes for the startup 24Sight News, that he still wants to serve his time in protective custody 'This accusation by George Santos is categorically false. Santos is a convicted fraudster whose credibility ranks somewhere between Pinocchio and Bernie Madoff. Congressman Lawler has never engaged in such discussions, period,' Lawler's communications director Ciro Riccardi told the Daily Mail. Langworthy's spokesperson added, 'No, he did not do that.' Johnson's office also denied Santos' bold claim. 'This allegation is unequivocally false. At no time has the Speaker had any conversations with the Trump Administration or anyone else regarding any potential pardon of Mr. Santos. Nor has he expressed any opinion on the matter one way or another to anyone, because the Speaker had no knowledge of the matter whatsoever,' a spokesperson told the Daily Mail. Johnson had also voted against expelling Santos from Congress in 2023 because of the precedent it would set, arguing the decision was for the congressman's constituents to decide. The other GOP lawmakers' offices had yet to respond to the Daily Mail's requests for comment. 'I think it's so political and some people have true, true hatred for me, I don't think it's likely at this point,' Santos said of a Trump pardon. Even before Santos was sworn-in in January 2023, The New York Times had revealed that he had fabricated parts of his resume - including working for Citigroup and Goldman Sachs. He also never attended Baruch College, where he claimed he had graduated from in 2010. A federal investigation uncovered that Santos had falsified reports to the Federal Election Commission and stolen the personal identity and financial information of contributors to his campaign, among other crimes. He was expelled from Congress in December 2023 - and sentenced to 87 months in April of this year. 'I'm not handling it well,' Santos admitted. 'As the days approach and I don't hear anything ... I've said, don't pardon me, commute my sentence, if restitution is what they want, I'll pay the restitution, but seven years is a political sentence.' Santos said 'of course' he's remorseful for the actions that will put him behind bars, adding, 'I hate people telling me that they know how I feel. That's just insane. It's arrogant, it's preposterous.' 'Look what I did to my own life? You'd think that I'm not remorseful?' he asked. 'Only those who are with me in my intimate setting on a day to day know how much I sit back and I cry sometimes myself to sleep of not just remorse but of - like I repent like everything.' Former Rep. George Santos (left) sat down with Capitol Hill reporter Juliegrace Brufke (right) for an episode of her podcast Sources Say, where he talked about why he didn't think President Donald Trump would grant him a pardon Republican Rep. George Santos departs the U.S. Capitol after House members voted to expel him from Congress on December 1, 2023 'If I could do it all over again it would be so different, not because I got caught, because I was blinded by ambition and I did so much stupid, right? In the name of what? Becoming a congressman. It's not even that cool,' he added. It has yet to be made public where Santos will be serving time - and won't be until he arrives, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons - but he described it as 'not the type of facility you would expect someone like me to go.' 'You'd expect to see me go to a place a lot more chill, right? They're putting me in somewhere the opposite,' he revealed. He said he's going into prison 'kind of blind.' 'I have spoken to other people who have gone to prison who are not former members of Congress,' he said. 'I don't want to make friends in there. Do I strike you like I want to make friends in prison?' Santos said he even stopped his Botox regimen ahead of Friday. 'Who am I going to freeze my face for, f***ing inmates?' he said. Jeffrey Epstein's brother has accused the White House of a 'cover up' after Donald Trump's Justice Department said it would speak to Ghislaine Maxwell in jail. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche revealed on Tuesday he expects to meet with Maxwell in the coming days to see if she has 'information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims.' Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after being convicted of sex trafficking of minors on behalf of Epstein. The move to speak to her is part of an ongoing Justice Department effort to cast itself as transparent in the Epstein case, which has been shrouded in conspiracy theories. It follows a fierce backlash from parts of Trump's base over an earlier refusal by the administration to release additional records in the investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi has faced mounting pressure from Trump's supporters to release all materials related to Epstein, who killed himself in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. A lawyer for Maxwell said she would cooperate with the Justice Department. 'I can confirm that we are in discussions with the government and that Ghislaine will always testify truthfully,' her lawyer David Oscar Markus said. 'We are grateful to President Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case.' Ghislaine Maxwell, 63, will meet with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche 'in the coming days,' the Justice Department announced Tuesday, July 22. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for her role in the child sex trafficking crimes But Mark Epstein, brother of the disgraced late financier, claimed it was the latest effort to distract attention from unpublished evidence and the circumstances surrounding the death of his brother. Two weeks ago, a months-long review conducted by the Justice Department and FBI concluded that Epstein died by suicide. Mark Epstein maintains his brother was killed. He said: 'They'll talk to her (Maxwell) and ask her what her favorite color is. So they can say they talked to her. It depends what the conversation is about. 'Maybe she'll be afraid to speak, afraid they'll hold it against her and turn down her appeal.' Mark Epstein said he knew Maxwell in the 1990s but had not spoken to her for several decades. But he believed she would have information about interactions between Epstein and Trump. 'She could certainly verify that Trump was in Jeffrey's office many times,' he said. He claimed a White House statement on Monday that Trump had 'never been' to his brother's office was 'the biggest crap I've ever heard.' 'I would speak to Jeffrey and he'd say he was with Trump. I know people in his office saw him there,' he said. The White House referred a request for comment to the Justice Department. The Justice Department did not comment beyond Blanche's earlier statement. Blanche said: 'This Department of Justice does not shy away from uncomfortable truths, nor from the responsibility to pursue justice wherever the facts may lead.' He said in the recent Justice Department and FBI review 'no evidence was uncovered that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties.' Blanche added: 'President Trump has told us to release all credible evidence. If Ghislane Maxwell has information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims, the FBI and the DOJ will hear what she has to say. 'I anticipate meeting with Ms. Maxwell in the coming days. Until now, no administration on behalf of the Department had inquired about her willingness to meet with the government. That changes now.' Mark Epstein believes his brother was killed in prison Speaking in the Oval Office on Tuesday, Trump addressed the DOJ plan to speak to Maxwell, saying he was not aware of it but it seemed 'appropriate to do.' He said: 'I dont know anything about it. I dont really follow that too much. Its sort of a witch hunt.' Trump has long said he was 'not a fan' of Jeffrey Epstein, that he had a 'falling out' with him around 20 years ago and never spoke to him again. Last week, the president sued media magnate Rupert Murdoch and The Wall Street Journal after it published a story about Trump's alleged friendship with Epstein. Meanwhile, some of the president's supporters have continued to pursue conspiracy theories that Epstein had a list of high-profile clients. The Justice Department and FBI review concluded there was no such 'client list.' Trump has urged his supporters not to be taken in by what he called a Democrat 'scam' and 'hoax' which was actually 'pretty boring stuff.' Disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell conspired in creating a years-long child sex trafficking ring on his private island Attorney General Pam Bondi (left) posted to X on Tuesday morning Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche's (right) statement on his intent to meet with Maxwell to ask: 'What do you know?' Donald Trump associated with Epstein in the 1980s and 1990s. His name appears on the flight logs for Epstein's private plane, dubbed the Lolita Express Some of Trump's most staunch supporters in recent weeks have called on Bondi to resign, after she backtracked on a promise she made earlier this year. She had said her department would release additional materials including 'a lot of names' and 'a lot of flight logs' in connection with Epstein's clients. Since then, at Trump's direction, Bondi and Blanche have asked a federal court for permission to unseal grand jury transcripts in the cases of both Epstein and Maxwell. However, legal experts have said that those transcripts will not likely contain the types of materials being sought by Trump's supporters. A source who spoke with the Daily Mail said that Maxwell would be 'more than happy' to testify before Congress. 'No-one from the government has ever asked her to share what she knows,' the source said. 'She remains the only person to be jailed in connection to Epstein and she would welcome the chance to tell the American public the truth.' A British mother-of-two has been arrested in Mauritius accused of trying to smuggle cannabis inside her six-year-old sons suitcase. Natashia Artug, 35, was detained alongside seven other people accused of carrying more than 161 kilograms of the drug - worth 1.6 million - in their luggage. The boys luggage alone is said to have had 24 packages of drugs wrapped in clear cellophane inside weighing 14kg. Natashia from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, who is vulnerable, was coerced into travelling to Mauritius by people involved in the drug trade who threatened her and her family, Justice Abroad has said. She also did not know the bags contained cannabis, the nonprofit added. Natashias partner Florian Lisman, a 38-year-old Romanian, was also arrested and said to be carrying 32 drug packages, an iPhone and 260 pounds. The other Brits detained were Patrick Lee Wilsdon, 22, Lily Watson, 20, Shannon Ellen Josie Holness 29, Laura Amy Kappen 28, and Shona Campbell, 32, who each had between 30 and 32 packages, according to local newspaper Le Mauricien. They were all on the same British Airways flight from London Gatwick to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam airport last month. The suspects have all been charged with drug trafficking and remain in custody. Natashia Artug, 35, was detained alongside seven other people accused of carrying more than 161 kilograms of the drug - worth 1.6 million - in their luggage Her son's luggage alone is said to have had 24 packages of drugs wrapped in clear cellophane inside weighing 14kg Natashias partner Florian Lisman, a 38-year-old Romanian, was also arrested and said to be carrying 32 drug packages, an iPhone and 260 pounds Each suspect carried Apple AirTags, which can be fixed to an item to track its location, and up to 900 in cash. The trackers - around the size of a 50p piece - are thought to be used by international drug trafficking gangs to help smugglers keep tabs on their shipments. Mauritian authorities described the use of the childs luggage to transport the drugs as outrageous and inhumane, adding this is one of the most revolting cases we have encountered in recent years. The boy, who was unaware of the contents of his bag, has reportedly already flown back to the UK and is staying with his father. Justice Abroad has launched a Crowd Justice fundraising campaign to raise 5,000 towards her legal defence. The organisers write: Natashia is a single mother of two, who suffers from Fibromyalgia but who attends university and is working to give her children a better future. Mauritian authorities described the use of the childs luggage to transport the drugs as outrageous and inhumane, adding this is one of the most revolting cases we have encountered in recent years Justice Abroad has launched a Crowd Justice fundraising campaign to raise 5,000 towards her legal defence The boy, who was unaware of the contents of his bag, has reportedly already flown back to the UK and is staying with his father She was coerced into travelling to Mauritius with her young son, and to carry the luggage which she did not know contained cannabis, by individuals involved in the drugs trade who took advantage of her vulnerability and made threats to cause serious violence to her and her family if she refused to obey their orders. This case raises serious concerns about the exploitation of a young mother by a criminal gang. She now faces criminal trial in Mauritius separated from her children and without the resources to mount an adequate defence and to put together the evidence of the duress and exploitation which resulted in her being involved in. A Foreign Office spokesman told MailOnline: We are supporting a British national detained in Mauritius and are in contact with the local authorities. On Wednesday, confessed quadruple murderer Bryan Kohberger will be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences plus 10 years. For some of the families of his victims, that won't be enough. 'By hiding the truth, we're protecting our killers,' Steve Goncalves, father of Kaylee Goncalves, said on CBS News. He is now preparing to deliver a victim impact statement at Kohberger's sentencing. 'I need to know the facts. How many times was my daughter stabbed? Was she choked? What happened? That should be part of the victim's statement,' he explained. By withholding or failing to force Kohberger to reveal this information, he argued, prosecutors are failing in their duty to expose the barbarity of these crimes. Indeed, one of the lingering questions in this case is what Kohberger did in the hours after the slayings, to include what he did with the murder weapon a Ka-Bar knife with a 7-inch blade purchased on Amazon which investigators never found. Now, Daily Mail has forensically re-traced Kohberger's steps, from the moment he fled from the crime scene at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho, to the time he was pictured entering an Albertson's supermarket nearly 10 hours later. What this investigation identifies - though information detailed in the original affidavit filed at the time of Kohberger's arrest in December 2022, as well as original reporting - are the locations that Kohberger may have disposed of the murder weapon even before the authorities knew that a mass murderer was on the loose. Kohberger escapes The murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Maddie Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin took place between 4:00 and 4:25am on Sunday, November 13, 2022. Kohberger's cellphone went dark during this time, leading the authorities to believe he had turned his phone off while committing the crimes. A neighborhood security camera, however, captured video of a white Hyundai Elantra, later determined to belong to Kohberger, circling 1122 King Road immediately before the killings and then speeding off afterward. 'By hiding the truth, we're protecting our killers,' Steve Goncalves (pictured right), father of Kaylee Goncalves, said on CBS News. He is now preparing to deliver a victim impact statement at Kohberger's sentencing Daily Mail has forensically re-traced Kohberger's steps, from the moment he fled from the crime scene at 1122 King Road in Moscow , Idaho , to the time he was pictured entering an Albertson's supermarket nearly 10 hours later. One of the great lingering questions in this case is what Kohberger did in the hours after the slayings, to include what he did with the murder weapon a Ka-Bar knife with a 7-inch blade purchased on Amazon which investigators never found At 4:48am, according to the police affidavit, Kohberger's cellphone connected to a cell tower, providing the first concrete evidence of his whereabouts after the killings. The cellphone data showed that he was driving south away from Moscow and then west towards his home in the small town of Pullman, Washington. He arrived at his apartment on Washington State University's campus at roughly 5:30am, but he wasn't there long. Return to the scene Phone records show that Kohberger returned to the vicinity of 1122 King Road between 9:12am and 9:21am on November 13. It is now known that in the frenzy of the quadruple murders, Kohberger dropped his Ka-Bar knife sheath, which is stamped with the United States Marine Corps emblem. It was found under the body of Maddie Mogen. That was an apparent mistake that would ultimately lead to Kohberger's arrest, as investigators found a trace of male DNA on the sheath's snap, which matched his DNA. Had Kohberger realized that he had left the sheath behind and had returned to search for it? Perhaps, but Kohberger did not find the item, and by 9:32am he was back at his apartment in Pullman, where at 10:31am. Later that morning, Kohberger left his house again, but this time, traveling south. Ditching the knife? Following the breadcrumbs set out in the affidavit, the Daily Mail set out on that same route, south from Pullman towards Lewiston, Idaho, on US Highway 195. It is a 45-minute drive between Kohberger's apartment and the location, some 35 miles away, where his cell phone next 'pinged' a cellphone tower. The road he took winds through wheat fields, past the occasional farm, through Colton population 430 and Uniontown population 355. There are no gas stations, no truck stops, no restaurants or stores nothing, in short, that would have drawn Kohberger that morning except for what lay at his journey's end. Kohberger's destination that day was an area known locally as Hell's Canyon deep in the Lewis-Clark Valley, at the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake Rivers. He crossed the Clearwater River on Memorial Bridge at approximately 12:26pm, a passage that took him from Washington into Idaho, before he crossed back into Washington state some ten minutes later, driving over the Blue Bridge, which traverses the Snake River. Both rivers are navigable waterways with a minimum depth of 14 feet and frequently used by barges to transport goods. The junction of the river is often busy with traffic. The road he took winds through wheat fields, past the occasional farm, through Colton population 430 and Uniontown population 355 He crossed the Clearwater River on Memorial Bridge at approximately 12:26pm, a passage that took him from Washington into Idaho, before he crossed back into Washington state some ten minutes later, driving over the Blue Bridge (pictured above), which traverses the Snake River The rivers are navigable waterways with a minimum depth of 14 feet and frequently used by barges to transport goods. The junction of the river is often busy with traffic (Pictured: Clearwater River on Memorial Bridge from North Lewiston into Lewiston, Idaho) Each of these bridge crossings would have provided Kohberger with an opportunity to toss the murder weapon into the waters below. Though it's also possible that he was headed somewhere else. Riverbank coffee shop At roughly 12:36pm, Kohberger arrived near Kate's Cup of Joe, a small coffee hut in Clarkston, Washington. Here, the Daily Mail spoke to a member of staff who was working that Sunday in November. She recalled seeing a car matching the description of Kohberger's and said that he didn't stop at coffee hut's drive-up window but drove past and parked 'somewhere behind' the store. The worker, who declined to be named, told the Daily Mail, 'I don't know what he was doing back there, but he was there for a while before he drove off.' The parking lot behind Kate's Cup of Joe abuts Granite Lake Park right at the edge of the Clearwater River, which is about a third of a mile wide. The far bank of the river is empty, marked by only rolling hills. At roughly 12:36pm, Kohberger arrived near Kate's Cup of Joe, a small coffee hut in Clarkston, Washington. Daily Mail has forensically re-traced Kohberger's steps, from the moment he fled from the crime scene at 1122 King Road in Moscow , Idaho , to the time he was pictured entering an Albertson's supermarket (pictured) nearly 10 hours later. At Kohberger's plea agreement hearing on July 2, Idaho state prosecutor Bill Thompson noted that this was the area to which Kohberger headed in the hours after the murders an indication, perhaps, of Thompson's suspicions that this is where Kohberger disposed of the knife. Standing on the bank of the Clearwater, you note how quickly the current flows and how vast it appears. If Kohberger had stood here and hurled the knife out into these waters, he could have done so with fair confidence that it would never be found. At 12:46pm, Kohberger's cellphone was picked up again by a cellphone tower outside of an Albertson's grocery store, a two-minute drive back in the direction from which he had come. There he was captured on closed-circuit surveillance video. So what was Kohberger doing in the 10 minutes between when he drove past Kate's Cup of Joe and when he was spotted outside the Albertson's? Perhaps, that question will be answered on Wednesday, if Kohberger is required as his victims' families insist that he reveal the full truth of what happened that day. Patients of a leading fertility clinic that charges $12,890 per IVF cycle have had their personal details and medical diagnoses leaked on the dark web. Genea said it became aware of suspicious activity on its network in February and launched an investigation, a statement on its website said. It discovered a cyber security breach had exposed patients' sensitive data. The fertility giant was granted a court-ordered injunction to stop access, use, dissemination or publication of the data by anyone who receives it. But, some patients have since claimed they were only told about the breach last week, five months on from the incident. A woman, who wished to remain anonymous, slammed Genea Fertility's communication about the leak as 'appalling'. 'We only found out about this data breach from an email notification at 11pm last Friday night, outside of business hours,' she told news.com.au. 'The fact the breach occurred in February, and we are only now being notified, five months on, for the very first time that sensitive information... was stolen and is on the dark web is utterly unacceptable.' Patients of a leading fertility clinic which charges $12,890 per IVF cycle have been impacted by a major data leak (a Genea Fertility clinic in Melbourne is pictured) Patients impacted by the data leak were sent tailored emails about the breach last week The woman said it 'beggars' belief' that the company still had her information when she stopped contact with the clinic more than a decade ago in 2013. A father and former customer, Matthew Maher, said he received an email on Thursday night saying his number, name, address, phone number, Medicare number and private health insurance number had all been leaked on the dark web. Mr Maher, whose daughter was conceived with the clinic, said he had been getting 'weird phone calls' the past few weeks. 'I have told them if there is a class action or a claim of compensation, I'll be the first to sign up,' he told the publication. Genea issued formal notifications to former and current patients in February in accordance with guidelines from the Australian Information Commissioner. Following a months-long investigation, the clinic then contacted patients with specific details on what personal information had been shared. Victims whose medical diagnosis and clinical information was at risk as well as their personal details were categorised as 'Annexure A'. Genea has not confirmed how many customers have been affected due to ongoing investigations by the Australian Federal Police. Genea has not confirmed how many patients have been impacted (a clinic is pictured) The company is one of Australia's three largest IVF providers and has clinics in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. A spokesperson for the clinic told Daily Mail Australia the company's own investigation has concluded. 'We are now starting to communicate with individuals about the findings from our investigation that are relevant to them, and the steps and support measures in place to help them protect their personal information,' they said. 'Genea expects to communicate with all impacted individuals over the coming weeks.' The firm has partnered with IDCARE, Australia's national identity and cyber support service, and set up a dedicated call centre and email service. 'We thank our community for their patience and understanding during this cyber incident,' the spokesperson said. 'We deeply regret that personal information was accessed and published and sincerely apologise for any concern this incident may have caused.' Genea has also notified and is cooperating with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, the National Office of Cyber Security, the Australian Cyber Security Centre, and relevant state departments. James Cleverly's return to the Tory frontbench is designed to send out a reassuring signal to the dwindling party faithful that all is well, despite appearances to the contrary. The former home and foreign secretary is seen at Westminster as a genuine 'big beast', who has been licking his wounds on the backbenches for months after missing out on the Tory leadership in chaotic circumstances last year. The decision to deploy him shadowing Angela Rayner gives the Tories another high-profile communicator, in return for effectively making him Kemi Badenoch's deputy. One source close to the leadership said his return 'shows the party is united and has our best players on the pitch'. Mr Cleverly has been told to take the fight to Labour over council tax, which is seen as a key vulnerability. He will also return to being a frequent Tory voice on the airwaves, where he has long been seen as one of the party's most effective operators. But his return also risks reopening debates on whether to take a tougher line on immigration and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) which had appeared close to being settled. Reform UK is already said to be working up an attack dossier bringing together his past comments on immigration, including claims he once described the Rwanda deportation scheme as 'bats***'. Former Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf said Mr Cleverly's return was a sign that 'the Tory wets are reasserting themselves', adding: 'He doesn't even want to leave the ECHR.' James Cleverly pictured in October. His return to the Tory frontbench is designed to send out a reassuring signal to the dwindling party faithful that all is well The decision to deploy him shadowing Angela Rayner gives the Tories another high-profile communicator, in return for effectively making him Kemi Badenoch's deputy It did not go unnoticed that there was no promotion for the hyperactive shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, who has garnered more headlines than anyone else, but whose sharp-elbowed approach has infuriated shadow cabinet colleagues along the way. Mr Jenrick's supporters had been angling for one of the top three jobs, with a particular eye on the role of shadow Chancellor. In the end Sir Mel Stride stayed put, as did shadow home secretary Chris Philp and shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel. One Tory malcontent described the reshuffle as 'wholly defensive', saying: 'They have been talking about bringing back Cleverly as Kemi's deputy since January it's the card they've kept in their back pocket for if things got difficult.' The source added: 'The whole reshuffle is totally uninspiring and wholly defensive. This is the team who took us to 17 per cent in the polls signalling that they are intent on holding on to our status as the fourth party in British politics.' There is also anger in some quarters about the decision to persist with Sir Mel in the critical role shadowing Rachel Reeves and setting the Tories' economic direction. Supporters point to the Tories' success in forcing Ms Reeves into a U-turn over winter fuel. But critics argue that Labour's economic woes have been largely self-inflicted and that the Tories' own offerings on the economy have been 'uninspired'. Some accuse him of trying to limit the media appearances of the Thatcherite shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith, who has adopted a more aggressive tone. It did not go unnoticed that there was no promotion for the hyperactive shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, pictured in July There are whispers that Sir Mel Stride only kept his job because of his close friendship with Michael Gove, pictured in February Others whisper he has only kept his job because of his close friendship with Michael Gove. Sir Mel spent years hosting dinners for Mr Gove as he wined and dined prospective supporters for his doomed leadership bids. Although Mr Gove is now in the Lords, Mrs Badenoch was once his protege and several of his former aides hold positions at the very top of her team. One senior Tory said: 'The things that matter are the economy and crime, and on the economy in particular we are not making nearly enough impact. 'Mel has been underwhelming and it does look like he is keeping his job because of all those dinners he cooked for Gove.' There were some smart appointments yesterday, such as bringing in the cerebral former No 10 adviser Neil O'Brien to beef up the party's threadbare policy offering. But there was no movement for the party's rising stars who might have helped give Mrs Badenoch's team a fresher look. Tory aides insist the reshuffle was forced upon her by the wish of shadow health secretary Ed Argar to quit following a medical scare. Mrs Badenoch herself last night said her new top team 'reflects the rich experience' within the party. But, with the Tories still sinking in the polls after a desperately difficult year, many would have liked to see something much more radical. The MAGA movement erupted in fury on Tuesday after Alina Habba was abruptly ousted from her role as New Jersey's top federal prosecutor by what Trump allies are calling a group of 'rogue judges.' Habba, the former personal attorney to President Trump, had been serving as acting U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey until her 120-day appointment expired this week without Senate confirmation. A panel of mostly Democrat-appointed judges bypassed Habba and installed her deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, as the district's top prosecutor. Within hours, the Trump administration fired back, terminating Grace and sparking a dramatic power struggle between the executive branch and the federal judiciary. Attorney General Pam Bondi accused the court of overstepping its authority and threatening Trump's constitutional powers. 'This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges - especially when they threaten the President's core Article II powers,' Bondi declared on X, launching what appears to be a full-scale legal and political offensive to reclaim the post for Habba. The sudden unraveling of Habba's tenure after a whirlwind rise from Trump's personal attorney to one of the most politically potent prosecutors in the country sent shockwaves through MAGA world. Only months earlier, Habba was sworn in by Trump himself in the Oval Office, taking over the New Jersey post in March. Alina Habba, one of Trump 's most loyal legal warriors, was abruptly ousted from her role as New Jersey 's top federal prosecutor by what Trump allies are calling a group of 'rogue judges' A panel of mostly Democrat-appointed judges bypassed Habba and installed her deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, as the district's top prosecutor. Grace was then immediately fired Attorney General Pam Bondi fired Grace, a nine-year veteran prosecutor, accusing the court of overstepping its authority and threatening Trump's constitutional powers Her appointment was always temporary and subject to Senate confirmation but she quickly made headlines by pursuing politically explosive cases, including charges against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver, both Democrats. She also challenged New Jersey State Police over sanctuary city policies, generating praise from Trump and fierce criticism from Democrats who accused her of pursuing 'frivolous and politically motivated' prosecutions. Under federal law, if the Senate does not confirm a president's nominee within 120 days, the district court judges can install a replacement and this is exactly what happened - much to Trump's fury. The panel of judges, mostly appointed by Democrats, declined to extend Habba's tenure and instead chose Grace, her deputy, in what insiders describe as a calculated snub of the White House. 'Alina is President Trump's choice to lead,' said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, another Trump loyalist and former defense attorney, in a fiery post on social media. 'No partisan bench can override that.' Behind the scenes, Habba is said to have seen the writing on the wall. Days before the decision, she gathered her staff for an emotional all-hands meeting, according to a source familiar with the conversation. 'Hopefully this isn't goodbye,' she told them, expressing gratitude and signaling that she was still banking on full Senate confirmation, although the odds were stacked against her. Trump nominated Habba to take helm at the Attorney's Office in New Jersey on July 1 but her confirmation was held up by New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim both Democrats Habba served as a personal attorney to Trump between his first and second term as he faced a slew of lawsuits against himself and his business Her nomination, submitted formally on July 1, stalled in the Senate due to opposition from New Jersey Democrats Cory Booker and Andy Kim, who accused her of inexperience and partisanship. While Trump has pressed for the Senate to stay in session through August to fast-track his nominees, Habba's path remains uncertain. 'She would never back down from the job Trump chose for her', a person close to her told DailyMail.com. With Habba's nomination still pending and Grace ousted by DOJ leadership, the ball is now back in the Senate's court. Trump allies have vowed to 'strike back' and ensure Habba's confirmation by any means necessary. Pupils at another school appear to have been punished for sporting Union Jacks on the institution's culture day. Dozens of children were placed in isolation at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy in Oldbury, West Midlands for wearing the flag just days after a 12-year-old girl was stopped from donning one at Bilton School in Rugby, Warwickshire. The students were asked to choose outfits which reflected their heritage but Leanne Wehrle told The Sun that when her daughter Isobelle, 15, turned up with a Union Jack over her shoulders, she was held in a meeting room. When the teenager argued with the decision, things got even worse and she was slapped with a five day suspension. Ms Wehrle, 39, said: 'Lots wore their flags over their shoulders, and others opted to wear them around their waists as skirts. 'Isobelle was put into an isolation room almost immediately, as were about 30 other kids. Yet many other children wore flags from the countries where their families originated, such as Jamaica and Spain, and had no problem.' The bar owner insisted that this was the first time her daughter had got into trouble and the head teacher failed to give sufficient reasoning as to why she had been suspended. Jenny Priest claimed her daughter Scarlett, 13, was also placed in isolation for sporting a white t-shirt with a Union Jack pattern on it. Pupils at Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy in Oldbury, West Midlands, pictured in a general view image, appear to have been punished for sporting Union Jacks on the institution's culture day It comes after Courtney Wright, pictured, was stopped at the gates of Bilton School in Rugby, Warwickshire and told to change because the patriotic outfit was 'unacceptable' The 38-year-old mother said Isobelle had, in fact, tried to defend Scarlett landing her in more trouble. The school told The Sun that students were allowed to wear Union Jacks but added: 'We have clear guidelines on non-uniform days. No student was suspended due to their choice of outfit on the day.' MailOnline has approached Ormiston Sandwell Community Academy for comment. Last week, Bilton School was forced to close early for the summer after staff received threats and 'extremist abuse'. It came after Courtney Wright was stopped at the gates and told to change because the patriotic outfit was 'unacceptable'. She was made to sit in the school's reception all morning until her father could come and collect her. The school has told parents it is closing earlier than normal for the summer holidays in a letter, citing 'extremist abuse online and via our telephone systems'. 'The nature and tone of this abuse has escalated in recent days, including personal threats to our staff,' the letter continued. Ranjit Samra, CEO of Stowe Valley Multi-Academy Trust and headteacher Jayne Delves said staff had been threatened. She was hauled out of lessons and made to sit in reception until her father Stuart Field (pictured) collected her Bilton School in Rugby has now been forced to close early for the summer after receiving threats It said: 'The nature and tone of this abuse has escalated in recent days including personal threats to staff.' The letter continued: 'While we have been working closely with our multi-agency partners to address the situation, our primary responsibility remains the safety and wellbeing of every child and member of staff. 'This is not a decision we have taken lightly. We understand the disruption this may cause to your families and your child's education, but the safety of our school community must come first.' The letter ended by thanking parents and guardians for their understanding and continued support during a 'very challenging time'. 'Straight A' student Courtney, 12, wore the Spice Girls inspired dress and wrote a speech about history and traditions as part of the celebrations. She was stopped at the school gates by a member of staff and ordered to change after picking it out for Culture Celebration Day. Courtney's father Stuart Field, 47, said he was 'gobsmacked' to learn his daughter had been segregated from her peers due to her choice of attire. Mr Field, who works in marine restoration, said: 'Courtney was so embarrassed and couldn't understand what she'd done wrong. A letter sent to parents by Ranjit Samra, CEO of the Academy Trust announced the school would be closing early 'She should not be made to feel embarrassed about being British. And she shouldn't be punished for celebrating British culture and history; nobody else I've spoken to can quite get their heads around it. 'Another with a St George's flag and another with a Welsh flag were not allowed in either. It was ridiculous. It just seemed anything that was remotely British wasn't allowed.' Courtney said after the ordeal: 'I felt really embarrassed. I wad made to sit in reception all day. All my friends were getting angry at why the teachers were doing that because my dress was wonderful.' On Tuesday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer appeared to support Courtney's choice of dress after his spokesperson said he had always been 'clear that being British is something to be celebrated'. The PM's official spokesperson added: 'You can see that from everything this government has done. We are a tolerant, diverse, open country, proud of being British.' Mr Field previously told MailOnline: 'The day was to celebrate everyone's cultures and Courtney chose this Union Flag dress so she could celebrate hers. 'She also wrote this speech to go with it and was very proud of what she'd done. 'The next thing I get a call at work at around 9am to say she's not allowed in school dressed like that and that it was unacceptable.' He added: 'I wasn't able to get away from work until about midday. They made her sit in reception all morning in front of the receptionists and kept her in isolation. 'She's a straight A student, one of the brightest in her year and she's never been in trouble before so she was really upset. 'All the kids there are British in my eyes, I like to think I'm a tolerant person but this was just not right. 'I wanted an answer as to why they thought this was acceptable - and nobody could give me a straight answer, I wanted to know how they had justified it. 'I spoke to her head of year, and he said he wasn't the best person to talk to about it, so I can only assume he didn't really agree with it either. 'It obviously came from above him but I don't know for sure who made the decision. 'I was fobbed off and told that I'd get a phone call and I took Courtney straight out for a nice meal to cheer her up. 'If anything I was extremely proud of what she chosen and what she had written in her speech. A spokesman for Stowe Valley Trust said: 'At Bilton School, we are proud of the diversity of our students and the rich heritage they bring to our community. We are committed to fostering an environment where every pupil feels respected, valued, and included. 'On Friday 11th July, an incident occurred during our Culture Celebration Day that caused considerable upset to one of our pupils, her family, and members of the wider community. We deeply regret the distress this has caused and offer our sincere and unreserved apologies. 'We have since spoken directly with the pupil and her family to listen to their concerns and reflect on how this could have been handled better. We are committed to learning from this experience and ensuring that every student feels recognised and supported when expressing pride in their heritage. 'As a school, we are reviewing our policies and strengthening staff training to ensure our practices reflect our values of inclusion, respect, and understanding for all.' The chairman of the Federal Communications Commission served a brutal dose of reality to Stephen Colbert fans 'wailing' over the loss of the liberal comedian's show. Brendan Carr explained how the drama over Colbert's Late Show cancellation was nothing more than political theater - and the actual motive was just dollars and cents. 'The partisan lefts ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert is quite revealing,' Carr wrote on X Monday. 'Theyre acting like theyre losing a loyal DNC spokesperson that was entitled to an exemption from the laws of economics.' On Thursday, CBS announced that the comedian's decade-long run as the host of CBS' late night flagship will end next May. The sudden move sparked immediate backlash from left-wing celebrities and politicians, who claim the decision was strictly politically-motivated. The cancellation was revealed two days after Colbert used the term 'big fat bribe' to describe Paramount's $16million settlement with President Trump. Paramount, which owns CBS, decided to settle on the lawsuit over deceptive editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. The entire affair came amid a pending merger between CBS parent company Paramount and Skydance - a deal still awaiting regulatory approval under the oversight of the Trump administration. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr (pictured) fired back at 'whining liberals' over the cancellation of Stephen Colbert s Late Show, arguing that the ' DNC spokesperson' isnt immune to the economic realities behind such decisions On Thursday, CBS announced that the comedian's decade-long run as the host of CBS' late night flagship will end next May - sparking immediate backlash from left-wing celebrities and political figures The cancellation was announced just days after Colbert (pictured) called CBS' parent company Paramount's $16million settlement with Trump over deceptive editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris a 'big fat bribe' CBS - long known as the 'Tiffany Network' - insisted that canceling Colbert's show was 'purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night.' 'It is not related in any way to the shows performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount,' it added. Though the program regularly topped its timeslot on network TV, it reportedly hemorrhaged $40 million a year in revenue - a staggering loss that ultimately proved unsustainable. However, the network instantly faced widespread accusations, including from US senators, of cancelling Colbert for political reasons, particularly given the timing following his vocal criticism of Trump. 'Stephen Colbert, an extraordinary talent and the most popular late night host, slams the deal, days later, he's fired. Do I think this is a coincidence? NO,' Bernie Sanders wrote to X. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis added her voice to the backlash, telling the Associated Press: 'They just cut NPR and, you know, public broadcasting. Yes, they're trying to silence people, but that won't work. It won't work. We will just get louder.' Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to X: 'CBS canceled Colberts show just THREE DAYS after Colbert called out CBS parent company Paramount for its $16M settlement with Trump a deal that looks like bribery.' 'America deserves to know if his show was canceled for political reasons,' she added. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Carr (pictured) pushed back against the backlash, posting on X that the decision to end Colberts show was driven by financial realities - not politics CBS - long known as the 'Tiffany Network' - explained that the decision to cancel the show is 'purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night' Though the program regularly topped its timeslot on network TV, it reportedly hemorrhaged $40 million a year in revenue - a staggering loss that ultimately proved unsustainable 'If Paramount and CBS ended the Late Show for political reasons, the public deserves to know. And deserves better,' California Senator Adam Schiff wrote to X. Jon Stewart, Colberts former Comedy Central colleague, also weighed in on the controversy during Mondays episode of The Daily Show, questioning the networks decision to cancel the program. 'Watching Stephen exceed all expectations in the role and become the number one late-night show on network television has been an undeniable great pleasure for me as a viewer and as his friend, and now Stephen has been canceled for "purely financial reasons," Stewart said. Colbert ultimately gained a reputation as one of Trumps fiercest critics, departing from the traditional late-night in favor of a more overtly partisan approach. Following the announcement of The Late Show's cancellation, President Trump took to Truth Social on Friday to gloat over the news in a celebratory post. 'I absolutely love that Colbert' got fired. His talent was even less than his ratings,' he wrote. Colbert, who briefly addressed the move Friday, devoted much of his Monday show to the controversy, eventually uniting with almost every other liberal late-night talk show host in a show of support, as well as Adam Sandler and even Lin-Manuel Miranda. The 61-year-old comic opened after a standing ovation and a lengthy applause from the New York City crowd by saying 'cancel culture has gone too far' and then joked now that the show is ending, he can say whatever he feels. The network instantly faced widespread accusations, including from US senators, of cancelling Colbert (pictured on show) for political reasons, particularly given the timing following his vocal criticism of Trump Actress Jamie Lee Curtis (pictured) added her voice to the backlash, saying: 'They just cut NPR and, you know, public broadcasting. Yes, they're trying to silence people, but that won't work. It won't work. We will just get louder' 'If Paramount and CBS ended the Late Show for political reasons, the public deserves to know. And deserves better,' California Senator Adam Schiff (pictured) wrote to X in response to the news Colbert said sarcastically of Paramount: 'They made one mistake, they left me alive! For the next ten months, the gloves are off!' The Late Show host then referenced Trump's comments, turning to an 'Eloquence Cam' and said: 'How dare you, sir? Would an untalented man be able to compose the following satirical witticism? Go f*** yourself.' He then referenced Trump stating in the same Truth Social post: 'I hear Jimmy Kimmel is next.' Colbert replied: 'Nope, no, no. Absolutely not. Kimmel, I am the martyr. There's only room for one on this cross. And the view is fantastic from up here. I can see your house!' He also said that cancellation meant he could finally admit what he felt about the president. In contrast to his often over-the-top anti-Trump monologues, he dryly, quietly said: 'I don't care for him. Doesn't seem to have the skill set to be president. Just not a good fit, that's all.' Colbert also referenced a story from The New York Post saying the show lost $40-$50million last year, though some have suggested its as high as $100million. 'I could see us losing $24 million but where would Paramount have possibly spent the other $16 million, oh...' he quipped, naming the amount the company settled with Trump for over his 60 Minutes lawsuit. Colbert (pictured) ultimately gained a reputation as one of Trumps fiercest critics, departing from the traditional late-night in favor of a more overtly partisan approach Following the announcement of The Late Show's cancellation, President Trump took to Truth Social on Friday to gloat over the news in a celebratory post He then went back to bashing Trump and the recent news accusing him of writing a 'bawdy' letter to Jeffrey Epstein for his 50th birthday. 'I'll have more to say about all this after the commercial break. The only other story is a small one... the president is buddies with a pedophile,' he said. In a follow-up post on X, Carr chimed in again, taking aim at the comedian and slamming him for his reaction to the cancellation. 'Im surprised to learn that CBS didnt find this stuff profitable,' he wrote. President Donald Trump announced he had reached a new trade deal with Japan, terming it 'the largest deal in history' as he celebrated with Republican lawmakers at the White House. The president announced a new 15 percent tariff on Japanese imports down from a threatened 25 percent. The pep rally came on a day Trump's White House was whipsawed by the Jeffrey Epstein controversy, with the president cheerfully proclaiming a win hours after tearing into predecessor Barack Obama. 'I just signed, and it was really helped a lot by our big, beautiful deal that we just did,' Trump said in the East Room of the White House at a reception with Republican members of Congress. 'But I just signed the largest trade deal in history, I think maybe the largest deal in history, Japan,' Trump said. He repeatedly gushed about its size, saying, 'This is, they say, the biggest deal ever made.' Trump, who had earlier announced deals with Indonesia and the Philippines as an August 1 deadline he declared after pausing his 'reciprocal' tariffs approaches, told lawmakers there were more talks in the works. Failure to reach agreements after his administration promised '90 deals in 90 days' could spark yet another market meltdown, something Trump is eager to avoid as he touts surging markets. 'We have Europe coming in tomorrow,' said Trump, days after reports of the tariffs he could slap on the European Union. Trump announced the deals minutes after posting about it on Truth Social. 'I just signed the largest trade deal in history,' President Donald Trump claimed as he announced a new agreement with Japan 'Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90% of the Profits,' Trump said, without spelling out how the investments would be calculated. Japan is already a top U.S. investor. Trump said it would create 'hundreds of thousands of jobs.' 'Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15 percent,' Trump wrote. 'This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Thank you for your attention to this matter!' Trump concluded. Trump said the country was 'becoming very rich again,' although some of the market's recent gains came after Trump hit 'pause' on his tariff decisions and backed off his repeated threats to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Trump also dangled further talks. 'We're going to make a deal with Japan on the LNG in Alaska,' Trump said. A deal with Japan that puts off an escalatory trade war would restore some stability to a major trade relationship. Trump cranked up the pressure earlier this month when he threatened to slap a 25 percent tariff on Japan and South Korea both key political allies if they didn't reach an agreement by August 1. He also lauded House Republicans who jammed through his 'big, beautiful bill,' and promised to lend them political support. 'We're going to make all those robo calls for you,' Trump said, on a day he once again threatened to go after 'no' vote Thomas Massie (R-Ky.). 'There's been no Congress like this Congress in terms of achievement,' Trump said. He called out birthdays and anniversaries in the crowd, and spoke about House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Scalise after he suffered a shooting. 'He was going to be a goner,' Trump said. 'You look better now than you did then,' he told him. 'We're so grateful for you,' Housing Secretary Scott Turner told the president when Trump invited him to say grace. 'You are a tremendous leader and we thank God for you,' he told Trump before the prayer. 'Thank you for giving us favor to pass this big, beautiful bill,' Turner said during the prayer of the bill that passed the House 218-214 with Trump losing just two Republican votes. Trump took the opportunity to praise Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, on a day he accused Barack Obama of 'treason' and applied pressure for him to be investigated over the origins of the Russia probe in 2016. 'Where's Tulsi? She's like hotter than everybody. She's the hottest one in the room right now,' Trump said. Trump repeated his claim that 'Obama cheated on the election,' after Obama slammed his earlier attacks. 'With your stamina, you know we can never sleep,' Speaker Mike Johnson told Trump when he took the microphone. A family living every parent's worst nightmare has issued an urgent warning after their toddler swallowed two magnets and ended up in an induced coma. Three-year-old Millie will spend months recovering in the Queensland Children's Hospital in Brisbane, 370km away from her home in Bundaberg. The toddler was rushed to hospital in early July after a stomach ache, high fever, and green vomit quickly deteriorated into a life-threatening emergency. Her bowels began to shut down as her condition worsened, and within days, Millie had been airlifted to Brisbane for emergency surgery. As she was placed on life support, doctors warned her parents Emily and Luke that the next few days would be critical and there was no certainty Millie would survive. The little girl had swallowed two small high-powered magnets on separate occasions, which had locked together inside her stomach. The magnets caused catastrophic damage to her digestive system as her bowel leaked into her stomach, as well as severe infection and sepsis. Surgeons drained more than a litre of pus from Millie's tiny body and removed the majority of her bowel. Three-year-old Millie (pictured) has a long road to recovery ahead of her after she swallowed two high-powered magnets which locked together in her stomach The Queensland toddler was in an induced coma following emergency surgery Millie will undergo multiple surgeries in the coming weeks, where doctors will attempt to reattach her bowel. Family and friends have rallied around Millie's parents, who have put their entire lives on hold to be by their daughter's bedside. 'They are far from home, away from their other children, family, and support systems,' a GoFundMe page started by a family friend stated. 'They are facing mounting bills, rent, travel, and living expenses while trying to stay by their little girl's side. 'This is every parent's nightmare, and it's not over yet. 'We are beyond grateful that Millie is still here, thanks to the urgent and expert care she received. This family now faces a long and uncertain road ahead.' The fundraiser is raising awareness of the life-threatening dangers of high-powered magnets in the hope other families don't have to go through the same ordeal. The magnets Millie swallowed are banned from being sold in Australia and New Zealand but can be found in products bought overseas or online. Millie remains in Brisbane's Queensland Children's Hospital, far away from home Millie almost died after she swallowed two high-powered magnets on separate occasions 'These tiny but powerful magnets can be found in toys, fridges, electronics, even jewellery,' the fundraiser continued. 'There is simply not enough awareness, and it almost cost Millie her life. Magnets are not toys, and parents everywhere deserve to know how dangerous they can be. 'If this message reaches just one other family and prevents another child from going through what Millie has, then some good can come from this heartbreaking ordeal.' 'Symptoms can take hours or days to appear and can include choking, drooling, stomach ache, discomfort or pain around the face or throat, cramps, nausea, and vomiting.' Students and graduates will soon see a reduction in their HECS debts and save hundreds of dollars a year. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare will introduce legislation to slash student debt by 20 per cent and increase the income that graduates need to earn before minimum repayments kick in. It's the first bill that the Albanese government will put before parliament at the start of its second term. People earning between $60,000 and $180,000 will save hundreds of dollars each year under the changes. Someone on $70,000 will save the most, $1300 a year, on minimum repayments due to an increase to the thresholds at which the debts must be paid back. Savings vary between incomes in the bracket, with people pocketing anywhere from $200 to $850. Bruce Chapman said it would make it fairer by giving those on lower salaries more money in their pockets, while their debts remain the same in nominal terms. 'It looks bigger, in real terms it's not bigger,' the architect of the HECS scheme told AAP. Students and graduates will soon see a reduction in their HECS debts and save hundreds of dollars a year thanks to new legislation from the Albanese government But the top priority should be reviewing the price of each degree because humanities students finish with the highest level of debt and end up being the lowest-paid graduates. 'All the prices are wrong,' Professor Chapman said. Mr Clare said reforms were being looked at, after the failure of the former Liberal government's job ready program. The program aimed to fill skills shortages by making it cheaper to study courses like teaching, nursing and psychology while doubling the cost of popular degrees including law, communications, business, humanities and the arts. 'If the intention there was to reduce the number of people doing arts degrees, it hasn't worked,' Mr Clare said. 'People study the courses they're interested in, that they want to do, that they love.' The universities accord final report branded the program 'deeply unfair' because it punished students following their interest, and called for it to be scrapped. It recommended that fees reflect future earning potential, as part of 47 recommendations to reform the sector. Other aspects about how HECS is paid off also needed to be addressed, Prof Chapman said. HECS repayments are taken from a person's pay slip if they're earning above an income threshold. HECS repayments are taken from a person's pay slip if they're earning above an income threshold But the money isn't immediately taken off the HECS debt and is instead deducted as a lump sum at the end of the financial year after indexation has been applied on June 1. This means a higher debt is indexed as the repayments haven't been deducted and the university accord recommended it be reformed to make the system fairer. The Australian Tertiary Education Commission has been established in an interim capacity to implement long-term university reform and will review the HECS system over the next 12 months. Mr Clare will introduce further legislation in the coming months to set the commission up as a permanent body. The ex-husband of Mark Latham's former partner has been charged with harassment and menacing behaviour just days after he said he had nothing to do with his ex-wife. Ross Matthews pleaded not guilty to a charge of 'using a carriage service to menace/harass/offend' in Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday. The charge is believed to relate to Latham's porn star ex, Nathalie Matthews. He did not appear in court personally and was represented by his lawyer. Police also applied for an apprehended violence (AVO) restraining order against him on behalf of Ms Matthews, which the court heard was associated to the criminal charge. Solicitor Alen Sahinovic, for Ross Matthews, said his client might be producing independent phone records in his defence and the matter was set for hearing on December 19. The legal twist comes just a week after Matthews insisted he no longer had anything to do with his former wife since their split three years ago. Matthews spoke out after Ms Matthews accused Latham of 'a sustained pattern' of psychological, financial and emotional abuse during their relationship. 'Please stop messaging me,' Ross Matthews posted on X after the scandal erupted. I don't speak to Nathalie and do not care. Thank you. Ross and Nathalie Matthews tied the knot in 2018 Mark Latham (right) is pictured alongside his ex-partner Nathalie Matthews (left) at celebrity hangout restaurant Mimi's in Coogee, in Sydney's eastern suburbs Ross Matthews issued a statement on social media, distancing himself from his former spouse The Matthews married in 2018 but the marriage reportedly ended in 2022, before Ms Matthews began dating former federal Labor Party leader, Latham. Ms Matthews now also has a separate AVO application in court against Latham. She claimed Latham proposed to her during their affair - but he has dismissed the relationship as just a 'situationship', despite explicit texts to her also now emerging. 'The big news is I had a private life. I had a sex life and Ive got to say it was fantastic,' he said on Wednesday. UK-born Mr Matthews had previously posted proudly about his marriage to his former wife on social media. 'Six months since I woke up with a killer hangover and still managed to make the best decision I have ever made!' he wrote in the wake of their wedding. In another post he added: Happy one year! I cannot believe how fast a year can go! 'I would be lying if I said its been the best year of my life - in fact its easily been the worst but it is in bad times that picking the right life partner is of the most importance! The former couple married in a traditional Catholic ceremony The pair lived in Cronulla and Ms Matthews was an active member of the Liberal Party 'I just could not imagine doing life without you, love you always and heres to many years to come! The couple was living in Cronulla in Sydneys south and Ms Matthews stood as a Liberal candidate at the 2021 Sutherland Shire Council election. On Wednesday, Latham alleged the couple were still actually married while he was seeing Ms Matthews. 'Now The Australian is reporting that I proposed to Nathalie Matthews in May last year,' he posted to X. 'They missed the joke: she was still married to Ross Matthews, and maybe still is to this day.' The former Labor leader has categorically denied he 'abuses women' and insisted all his dealings with Ms Matthews were entirely consensual. In an interview with Chris Smith on 2SM, he did not deny sending lurid texts to Ms Matthews from the floor of state parliament. But he added: 'If I'm the only person in Australia who in a work environment engaged in a bit of playful sex talk with their partner, then I'll buy everyone a lottery ticket tomorrow.' Nathalie Matthews has now applied for an AVO restraining order against Latham, claiming he abused her and made her perform degrading sex acts Mark Latham and Nathalie Matthews pictured in 2023 Everest Carnival He said the AVO case against him was being brought privately after NSW Police chose to not pursue the allegations. 'There is a court case pending because shes lodged a private AVO application,' he said. 'She tried to get an AVO with the police... I think that tells you a lot about the substance of the matter. 'But I can say in relation to that, just about all the things shes complaining about, she initiated in consensual arrangements.' The domestic violence order filed in the NSW Local Court accuses Latham of subjecting his ex-partner to 'a sustained pattern' of psychological, financial, and emotional abuse over almost three years, according to details seen by The Australian. The application alleges Latham engaged in vile acts, including defecating on me before sex and refusing to let me wash, forcing degrading sexual acts, pressuring me to engage in sexual acts with others, demanding I call him master, telling me I was his property, and repeatedly telling me that my only value to him was for sex to demean and control me. Leaked WhatsApp messages reported by The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday allegedly show interactions between Latham and his former partner. Latham told Daily Mail Australia the outlet's reproduction of the messages was 'not accurate'. It is also not suggested the claims of abusive behaviour are substantiated, only that the allegations have been made. Ross and Nathalie Matthews wed seven years ago but reportedly split in 2022 The leaked WhatsApp messages include a series of lewd exchanges on February 20, 2025 during parliamentary sitting hours. 'Very hard thinking about you,' he wrote to Ms Matthews shortly after 11am, before following up with a series of suggestive emojis. 'Need badly to taste you,' he wrote that afternoon, alongside an emoji of a tongue. 'Made it back for first vote after dinner,' he said at 8.38pm. Latham told the outlet the communications did not impact his work. The tranche of leaked messages includes more explicit exchanges - too graphic to publish - spanning back as far as October last year. On several occasions, Latham is referred to as 'master'. He said Ms Matthews sent him images during parliamentary sittings, 'seeking a response', and that he could not describe them due to 'an abundance of caution about the revenge porn laws'. Mark Latham (left) claims Nathalie Matthews (right) sent him images during parliamentary sittings, 'seeking a response', and that he could not describe them due to 'revenge porn laws' 'I don't think responding to a consensual partner on a private, intimate matter in any way has reduced my workload, which I would match up against any other member in the place,' he told The Daily Telegraph. Ms Matthews' allegations against the politician were detailed in court documents filed with NSW Local Court. Latham has denied the allegations which he described as 'comically false and ridiculous' in a post to X on Monday night. He said he had 'scores of documents' to support his claims and that he would rely on those documents to defend himself. 'As the old saying goes, hell hath no fury like a woman scorned,' he wrote. Ms Matthews, who runs an e-commerce global logistics firm based in Dubai, Perth and Sydney, has applied for an interim order barring Latham from coming within 100 metres of her. She cited 'ongoing, reasonable fear of harassment, intimidation, and potential harm'. Her application accuses the former Labor leader of throwing a dinner plate at her, forcing her to call him 'master', and pressuring her to have sex with others. Pictured is a message exchange between the pair (Latham's messages in blue) Latham claimed the texting did not impact his work Ms Matthews' filing, reported by The Australian, also alleges Latham prevented her from cleaning up after defecating on her before sex and telling her she was 'property', and telling her that her only value to him was for sex to 'demean and control' her. She also alleged 'physical violence' incidents, including pushing her against walls, forcing her out a door, throwing a plate at her during a row. She also claimed he drove at her with his car, hit her with the side mirror and caused a bruise. Latham is further accused of 'systematically undermining' Ms Matthews to 'control and isolate' her by comparing her 'unfavourably to other women and acting as if he would 'harm himself' to manipulate her. Ms Matthews accuses Latham of forcing her to cover the cost of holidays abroad 'under duress', making her purchase expensive goods, and coercing her regarding her father's will for his benefit. She claims she experienced 'constant fear and hyper-vigilance' since her arrival home from a June trip abroad, alleging all past break-ups with Latham featured a repeated 'pattern of harassment and intimidation'. She alleges: 'The defendant has held intimate photos and videos of me, and I have been afraid he would expose them to shame and control me if I attempted to leave or resist his demands.' Latham denied all accusations to The Australian. 'Nothing has been served on me nor has anyone contacted me,' he told the newspaper. 'I haven't had anything to do with her (Ms Matthews) since 27 May, so nearly seven weeks ago. I ended the 'situationship' that night for very good reason.' The matter will be heard at Downing Centre Local Court on July 30. A group of senators who turned their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country inside the federal Parliament have been described as childish. The four One Nation senators protested in the chamber when the statement of respect for Indigenous Australians was read out as part of the traditional ceremonial opening of Parliament on Tuesday. Labor Cabinet minister Clare O'Neil lashed the Pauline Hanson-led party, saying it was disappointing their action became a point of focus, despite the shows of unity earlier in the day during Welcome to Country ceremonies. 'It was disrespectful and rude and childish,' she said. The Housing Minister argued the opening of Parliament was about celebrating Australia's democracy and representing its citizens. But Nationals Senate leader Bridget McKenzie defended the right of her colleagues to express a different view, comparing One Nation's silent protest to politicians who walk out of the chamber during the morning prayers and those who don't support the monarchy. 'The problem in a liberal democracy like ours is when we can't express different views,' she told Sunrise. The four One Nation politicians, including Senator Pauline Hanson, turned their backs in the Senate chamber when the Acknowledgment of country was read out in Parliament Senator Hanson argued the Acknowledgement of Country was 'divisive' and 'increasingly forced'. 'We took this stand because were listening to Australians, hardworking, decent people who are sick of being lectured to in their own country,' she said. 'Theyre tired of being made to feel like outsiders. Tired of tokenistic rituals shoved into every meeting, every ceremony, every public event, while real issues like the cost of living and housing are brushed aside. 'There were at least three acknowledgements performed in Parliament today that Im aware of. These divisive performances arent about respect anymore. Theyve become a political routine that divides rather than unites.' But Ms O'Neil said the party still should have treated all Australians with respect. 'Whatever your views about the Welcome to Country - we've got First Nations people who have been invited to come to Parliament, to extend that hand of friendship and invite us and talk about 65,000 years of heritage that they bring to our beautiful, great country,' she said. 'To treat people that way on the first day of parliament, I think, it was absolutely appalling.' Welcome to Country ceremonies and land acknowledgements have been at the centre of a right-wing culture war after a group of neo-Nazis booed a Welcome to Country address during an Anzac Day dawn service in Melbourne earlier in 2025. This afternoon in the Senate, every One Nation senator stood with me to turn our backs on the divisive and increasingly forced Acknowledgement of Country. Ive made this protest on my own for years, but today, our whole team made it clear: weve had enough of being told we dont pic.twitter.com/iUoZbiDqn6 Pauline Hanson (@PaulineHansonOz) July 22, 2025 Labor has backed Welcome to Country ceremonies, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday celebrating the tradition as a powerful way to begin the new parliament and reflect on Australia's history. Mr Albanese also took a veiled swipe at the stance of former Opposition leader Peter Dutton and some coalition MPs who branded Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country proclamations as divisive and overdone. 'Like a lot of the more positive things about our nation, we shouldn't take it for granted,' Mr Albanese said. 'It is not controversial today.' Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the ceremony 'set the tone as we re-commit ourselves to the taking of practical action to improve lives and expand opportunity for Indigenous Australians in every part of our great country'. Welcome to Country is conducted by Traditional Owners, while Acknowledgement of Country is a statement of respect for Traditional Owners and connection to land, which can be given by an Indigenous or non-Indigenous person. The Trump administration has orchestrated a high-stakes jailhouse sit down with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell amid the ongoing fallout over the Epstein files. A top Justice Department official confirmed he will personally meet with Maxwell at a federal prison in Florida where she is serving a 20-year sentence for helping Jeffrey Epstein sexually abuse underage girls. The 'mafia-style' negotiation could mean a reprieve for Maxwell as Trump looks to put an end to the torrent of speculation surrounding his history with the billionaire pedophile. 'She's going to make a deal,' attorney and Epstein associate Alan Dershowitz told The New York Post. 'That's the way things are done. They make deals with the mafia, so I'm certain they are going to try to make a deal with her.' Dershowitz, a onetime Epstein lawyer, called Maxwell the 'Rosetta stone' of the Epstein saga, hinting a vast network of secrets could soon be revealed. 'She knows everything - not just about the perpetrators but the victims,' he said. 'And she knows about the victims who became perpetrators.' Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed on Tuesday that negotiations were already underway with Maxwell's attorneys. 'If Ghislaine Maxwell has information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims, the FBI and the DOJ will hear what she has to say,' Blanche said. 'I have communicated with counsel for Ms. Maxwell to determine whether she would be willing to speak with prosecutors from the Department. I anticipate meeting with Ms. Maxwell in the coming days.' The meeting could mark the first time federal prosecutors hear Maxwell's full version of events, after years of silence and failed appeals. The Justice Department is preparing for a high-stakes jailhouse meeting with convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell in a move described by insiders as a 'mafia-style' deal that could blow open decades of secrets Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed on Tuesday that he will personally meet with Maxwell, 63, in the coming days at the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for helping Jeffrey Epstein sexually abuse underage girls Maxwells lawyer, David Oscar Markus, promised full disclosure from his client as she seeks an early release from prison. 'Ghislaine will always testify truthfully,' Markus said. 'We are grateful to President Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case.' It remains to be seen, however, whether the Justice Department will ask Maxwell to testify - and what secrets Trump would actually want her to disclose. MAGA supporters have been demanding Trump be more transparent about the Epstein files after he campaigned on making all the details public. Legal experts, including Dershowitz, have cast doubt on the usefulness of grand jury transcripts, urging the DOJ instead to release FBI interview notes from Epstein's victims. Court filings previously revealed that some of Epstein's more than 1,000 identified victims were groomed to recruit others - a chilling system of exploitation that created a web of silence and complicity. Prosecutors have struggled to untangle the criminal network since Epstein's death in 2019. Maxwell's reemergence comes at a critical moment. Earlier this year, the Justice Department and FBI raided Epstein's former properties, collecting what they described as 'voluminous materials.' But just weeks later, they released a joint memo dismissing long-running conspiracy theories, stating there was 'no incriminating client list' and no evidence of blackmail. Renowned attorney Alan Dershowitz , a former Epstein associate who once represented him in court said any deal is both inevitable - and crucial Attorney General Pam Bondi posted to X on Tuesday morning Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche's (right) statement on his intent to meet with Maxwell to ask: 'What do you know?' Donald Trump associated with Epstein in the 1980s and 1990s. His name appears on the flight logs for Epstein's private plane, dubbed the Lolita Express That walk-back sparked outrage among Trump's base, especially after Attorney General Pam Bondi had previously promised to release 'a lot of names' and 'a lot of flight logs.' MAGA supporters were particularly enraged that no new material was produced in the Epstein files review and that Trump's DOJ found no existence of a so-called 'client list.' The president even started calling the whole ordeal the 'Epstein hoax' and claimed Democrats were to blame for stoking conspiracies in an effort to divide Republicans. Now, under pressure, the administration reversed course. 'President Trump has told us to release all credible evidence,' Blanche said. 'Until now, no administration on behalf of the Department had inquired about her willingness to meet with the government. That changes now.' Blanche, the deputy AG, also asked a federal court to unseal grand jury transcripts from both Epstein's and Maxwell's cases The judges in charge - Richard Berman and Paul Engelmayer - have ordered the DOJ to submit its arguments by July 29, and have given Maxwell, a representative of Epstein's estate, and the victims until August 5 to file their responses. Speaking from the Oval Office on Tuesday, Trump said he supports the outreach. 'I think it would be something - sounds appropriate to do, yeah,' he told reporters. The president, at one point, publicly criticized his own supporters who have become fixated on the idea of a government cover-up. But he has also told Bondi and Blanche to pursue all legitimate evidence. Just last week, the DOJ opposed Maxwell's request to have the Supreme Court review her case, with her lawyers claiming she should have never been charged because of a 2008 plea deal the courts struck with Epstein. But Maxwell's team has now hinted she may be ready to cooperate now that most of her appeals have failed. Trump and Ghislaine Maxwell are seen attending a New York fashion show in September 2000 Disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell conspired in creating a years-long child sex trafficking ring on his private island Maxwell, seen with sex offender Jefferey Epstein, was a longtime partner of the disgraced financier. She is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking Maxwell's journey from international socialite to inmate has been as dramatic as it is disturbing. Once a fixture of British high society and New York elite circles, she rubbed shoulders with royalty, billionaires, and political power players. After her father, media tycoon Robert Maxwell, died in 1991 under suspicious circumstances, Ghislaine found herself under the wing of Epstein - eventually becoming his confidante, girlfriend, and accomplice. In court, four women testified that Maxwell groomed them as teenagers for Epstein and, at times, participated in the abuse herself. She was convicted in 2021 on charges of sex trafficking, conspiracy, and transporting a minor for illegal sexual activity. She did not testify at her trial, but gave two depositions in earlier civil cases, in which she denied wrongdoing and accused Epstein's most vocal accusers of fabricating stories. Her brother, Ian Maxwell, who has publicly defended her since her 2020 arrest, claimed this week that the infamous 'client list' is a myth. 'I don't think it constitutes a list of alleged people to whom young minor girls were trafficked,' he told Piers Morgan Uncensored. 'Ghislaine's position has been: she doesn't believe such a list existed.' Ian also warned of the danger Maxwell faces behind bars. 'Prisons are very dangerous places,' he said. 'We know from Ghislaine that there are serious staff shortages and more dangerous higher-risk-category prisoners now being admitted.' Maxwell's legal team has long argued that she should never have been prosecuted, citing the 2007 non-prosecution agreement Epstein signed in Florida, which extended immunity to his co-conspirators. But federal prosecutors in New York successfully argued that the deal did not apply outside Florida, and moved forward with the case that ultimately led to her conviction. Two teenage boys in a horror jet ski crash, which killed one and severed the arm of the other, have been identified. Mitchell Irvine, 15, died when he and mate Noah Watkins, 14, crashed their jet ski near Tom Uglys Bridge on Georges River in Sylvania, in Sydney's south, just after 6pm on Tuesday. It is believed they hit an obstacle in the water and then collided with a barge. Witnesses immediately called emergency services after hearing Noah's cries for help as he floated in the water. One of the first responding police officers jumped into the river and pulled Noah to the edge, where it was discovered one of his arms was severed. The teen was treated by paramedics who were able to stabilise him at the scene before rushing him to Sydney Children's Hospital where he remains in a critical condition. Mitchell was found unresponsive in the water, and although paramedics performed CPR on the 15-year-old, he was declared dead at the scene. Noah, who was licensed to use the jetski, was at the controls in the dark evening conditions and both boys were wearing life jackets. Mitchell Irvine, 15, died at the scene after his body was pulled unresponsive from the water following the crash Noah Watkins, 14, is fighting for his life in hospital after his arm was severed when the jet ski he was riding on with his friend Mitchell crashed near Tom Uglys bridge A specialist medical team treated Noah for his severed arm before stabilising the teen and rushing him to hospital Witnesses said Noah's severed arm was still visible on Wednesday morning, laying on the barge which was hit by the jetski. Friends have shared heartbreaking tributes to Mitchell and wishes to Noah following the tragedy. 'Rest up lad, I'm going to miss you,' one boy wrote. Praying for you too Noah. Love you lad.' Another friend described Mitchell as having 'many great friendships' and being the 'purest boy you could ever meet'. Many others have simply commented 'LLM' - an abbreviation for 'long live Mitch' - on videos shared to various social media platforms. Farid Nagi, a friend and neighbour of Noah's dad, described Noah as the 'cutest, gutsiest, staunchest kid for his age'. 'He's tough, he's bright, he's full of life and he's always happy... he's a beautiful kid that has so much to live for,' Mr Nagi said. 'It's devastating... it could damage the rest of his life. His friend passed away, the one that's always with him. It's a tragic moment for everyone.' Noah has shared several videos to Instagram which show him riding his jet ski at high speeds across Sydney waterways Another video showed Noah's jet ski tangled in the mangroves after riding the vehicle at a fast speed on the river Other videos showed two boys riding a boat on a river, with the boat's bow lifted in the air Noah had shared several videos on Instagram of him riding his jet ski at high speed with his friends and performing other dangerous acts on the water. One video showed him travelling at high speeds on a river before the jet ski ended up tangled in mangroves. Other clips showed two boys riding a boat on a river, with the boat's bow lifted in the air. Several other clips of dangerous acts on the waterways have also been shared on TikTok by a group of young teenagers, with Noah tagged in the captions. 'It's a tragedy to say the least, not only for the families but for the local community,' Inspector Timothy Carter said. Insp Carter said the gruesome accident would also have a lasting impact on emergency responders, while praising the efforts of the officer, who jumped into the water, as 'heroic.' One of the first responding police officers immediately jumped into the river and pulled Noah to the edge Paramedics performed CPR on Mitchell, who was found unresponsive in the water, but he was unable to be revived and died at the scene 'It also has a significant impact on emergency services, the police have done their best to save these kids' lives. We feel great empathy towards the families,' he said. Police have established a crime scene and an investigation is still underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner. Anyone with information about the incident is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Mushroom chef killer Erin Patterson may avoid a life sentence in jail because doctors diagnosed her with a rare psychological condition two years ago. Daily Mail Australia has been told doctors who treated Patterson when she first arrived at the Dame Phyllis Frost Correctional Centre after her arrest in November 2023 found she had had Munchausens Syndrome. It is a psychological condition where someone pretends to be ill or deliberately produces symptoms of illness in themselves. It is done with the intention of 'assuming the sick role' so friends and family will care for them and make them the centre of attention. The condition could potentially save Patterson from being jailed for life if it's cited as a mitigating factor for the murders, although that outcome is unlikely. Patterson, 50, was convicted of the murders of her in-laws Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, and the attempted murder of Heather's husband Ian. She admitted in court to lying about having been diagnosed with cancer to obtain sympathy from her intended murder victims. During her ten-week trial at the Latrobe Valley Law Courts in Morwell, eastern Victoria, the jury heard Patterson relished the attention she got from her in-laws by pretending to be sick. Erin Patterson was diagnosed with a rare psychological condition two years ago The women's prison where Erin Patterson is expected to spend much of the remainder of her life Patterson makes her final trip back to jail after the jury verdict sealed her fate The court heard from sole survivor Ian Wilkinson that Patterson told her lunch guests she had undertaken a scan which showed a tumour. While Don Patterson was dying in Korumburra Hospital following the lunch, he told hospital staff Patterson had mentioned she had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the jury heard. But Patterson admitted she didnt have any medical appointments relating to cancer, despite telling Gail Patterson she was undergoing medical investigations. And in the witness box, Patterson told the jury she had lapped up the attention she received from her in-laws in response to her fictitious cancer diagnosis. 'I had initially thought I had an issue with my elbow, Id had a lot of pain for a number of weeks, I thought I had a lump,' she told the jury. 'I had told Don and Gail about what I was worried about. Id probably whinged a bit too much to Don and Gail about it and felt a bit embarrassed by that. 'They made me feel loved and cared for in the way that they were asking about my health and I didnt want that to stop, so I kept going.' On July 7, a jury found Patterson killed and attempted to kill her victims in cold blood. Munchausen Syndrome is a psychological condition where someone pretends to be ill or deliberately produces symptoms of illness in themselves to get attention and sympathy The final resting place of Don and Gail Patterson A date for Patterson's pre-sentence plea hearing is yet to be fixed, but is expected to take place sometime in August. Patterson had been defended at trial by top Melbourne barrister Colin Mandy, KC and Sophie Stafford. A plea hearing allows a convicted criminal to have submissions made on their behalf to try and mitigate a jail sentence. Patterson faces the prospect of a life sentence without parole unless she can persuade Justice Christopher Beale that there are compelling reasons for her eventual release. These reasons often revolve around remorse and an offender's 'insight' into the crimes that led to their conviction. A person who pleads not guilty and goes to trial normally receives a more severe penalty than someone who spares their victims the burden of having to give evidence at trial. Often, a medical explanation for one's offending can help mitigate a sentence. Such mental conditions, when accepted by the court, routinely earn violent offenders discounts on their sentences. Erin Patterson's barrister Colin Mandy, KC will do what he can to try and spare his client a life sentence in jail Detective Leading Senior Constable Stephen Eppingstall leaves the Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court in Morwell after the jury delivered its verdict The Leongatha home of Erin Patterson where she lured her lunch guests to their deaths 'Verdins principles' - as they are known under Victoria's Sentencing Act of 1991 - reduce the offender's moral culpability and force a judge to consider the added 'hardship' jail will have on them. They are principles rolled out and relied upon by convicted criminals and their lawyers on a daily basis in Victoria. It remains unclear if Patterson intends to allow herself to be assessed by a forensic psychiatrist before her sentence. Both prison and police sources have suggested Patterson is unlikely to admit to any form of mental illness or change her story at plea in an effort to save her skin. 'She's a narcissist,' one source said. 'She loves the attention and I doubt she'll be falling on her sword now and making any kind of admissions.' Patterson remains locked up in solitary confinement for her own safety. There she spends almost 24-hours a day alone. Prison sources have since poured cold water on earlier reports that suggested Patterson had been working in the prison kitchen. 'She's not working anywhere. And she sure as hell isn't working in the prison kitchen. She gets all her food brought into her. She's not going anywhere anytime soon,' a source said. Erin Patterson discharges herself from hospital just minutes after arriving The dining table where Patterson killed her lunch guests Patterson was caught on CCTV at a service station where she made a nine second stop at the toilets High profile Melbourne criminal lawyer George Balot, of Balot Reilly Criminal Lawyers, told Daily Mail Australia Patterson still faced significant challenges to earn herself a discounted sentence. 'Mitigating factors are details about the offender and their offence that tend to reduce the severity of their sentence for example the offender's previous good character, the likely effects of prison on the offender for example, if the offender has a medical condition that would be hard to manage in prison,' he said. 'Courts can consider factors such as the offender's mental health. 'Generally speaking ill health will be a factor tending to mitigate punishment only when it appears that imprisonment will be a greater burden on the offender by reason of their state of health or when there is a serious risk of imprisonment having a gravely adverse effect on the offender's health. 'Sentencing individuals with Munchausen Syndrome or Factitious Disorder is a difficult exercise because the condition is complex. 'Sentencing decisions consider the offender's potential for rehabilitation. 'While it is not a recognised medical diagnosis, the courts acknowledge the underlying personality disorder and its impact on behaviour when determining appropriate sentences. 'Also protective custody is normally mitigating if evidence shows conditions are harsh.' Patterson will be sentenced at a date to be fixed. Startling surveillance video captures a woman screaming for help as she is forcibly carried back into a trailer home in Texas, where authorities say she was held as a sex slave for nearly a week. Jose Armando Carcamo-Perdomo, a 22-year-old undocumented migrant from Honduras, was arrested on July 14 and faces charges of aggravated kidnapping and assault after Harris County Police discovered a woman being held captive inside his Houston home. The harrowing footage, recorded by a neighbor's security camera, shows Carcamo-Perdomo carrying the woman - identified only as a Chinese migrant - in a bear-hug grip as she kicks and struggles to escape. A dog can be heard loudly barking in the background as the woman shrieks for help. 'She tried to leave, but this defendant carried her back inside the residence without her consent,' a Harris County judge said. 'He tied her up and then sexually assaulted her.' Investigators say the woman had traveled from New York to Houston after being offered a higher-paying job as a masseuse. But upon arriving, her passport was taken, and she was locked in a small closet without food or water, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Jose Armando Carcamo-Perdomo (pictured), a 22-year-old undocumented migrant from Honduras, was arrested on July 14 and faces charges of aggravated kidnapping and assault after Harris County Police discovered a woman being held captive inside his Houston home The harrowing footage, recorded by a neighbor's security camera, shows Carcamo-Perdomo carrying the woman - identified only as a Chinese migrant - in a bear-hug grip as she kicks and struggles to escape After at least five days in captivity, she managed to escape the closet and run from the trailer. However, Carcamo-Perdomo caught her outside and dragged her back inside as a concerned neighbor looked on. 'As soon as I drove out of the fence at work, I called 911 to report a possible child abduction,' the neighbor told ABC 7. When police arrived at the home on Elderberry Lane, near Beltway 8 and Highway 90, they found the woman 'bound by her hands.' 'There was a small closet with a piece of wood across the door that was screwed into the frame,' Lieutenant John Klafka, chief of the adult special crimes unit at the Harris County Sheriff's Office, told Fox News. 'They were able to rip that piece of wood off and open the door. It had been tied up. She had some type of object like a sock or something that was used to bound her hands.' Despite the evidence, the suspect claimed he didn't know anything about the woman in his home, according to Click 2 Houston. 'He knew there was someone in the house, but he claimed to have never seen her or said it was a woman that lived there but didn't know her, didn't see her, has never had any interactions with her,' Klafka told the outlet. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Carcamo-Perdomo entered the U.S. illegally in 2020 and was issued a notice to appear following a traffic stop. In 2023, however, an immigration judge dismissed the case, Fox News reported. A dog can be heard loudly barking in the background as the woman shrieks for help Lieutenant John Klafka, chief of the adult special crimes unit at the Harris County Sheriff's Office suspects the case may be part of a broader human trafficking operation In response to the incident, the DHS issued a statement calling for stricter immigration enforcement, saying the department is 'working day and night' to remove 'heinous' individuals. 'This heinous criminal illegal alien was freely roaming our interior and terrorizing American communities,' the DHS wrote on X, formerly Twitter. 'Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, ICE is working day and night to remove the MILLIONS of illegal aliens in our interior. LAW AND ORDER WILL PREVAIL!' Authorities now suspect the case may be part of a broader human trafficking operation, Click 2 Houston reported. 'He obviously is not the one that drove her from New York,' Klafka said. 'He's not the person that drove her from the first location in Houston. And we know there's other people involved.' Klafka emphasized that the woman did not know Carcamo-Perdomo before the incident and described the ordeal as a traumatic experience for a migrant with no local support. 'This is a very traumatic event. You know, you're in a foreign country. You were brought from one giant city to another that's halfway across the country south,' he said. 'She has no friends, no family. Nobody is here for her. So we've got to do everything we can to ensure that she can trust us to do our jobs and find the rest of the people that are involved in this.' Carcamo-Perdomo's attorney has released a statement maintaining his client's innocence. 'Our client, Mr. Jose Carcamo, is shocked by the serious allegations brought forth against him and firmly maintains his complete innocence. We remind the public that under the United States Constitution, every individual is entitled to the presumption of innocence, the right to due process, and a fair trial.' The unidentified woman is currently receiving medical care and counseling at an undisclosed location and the investigation is ongoing. An Aussie mum was found to be carrying nearly $200,000 in cash hidden in her luggage after she was stopped at an airport in Western Australia. Footage published by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Wednesday, shows the moment security staff found the wads of cash in the 65-year-old woman's bag. The woman, who has not been identified, was stopped by staff at Perth Airport when 'irregularities' were spotted during a luggage screening in October, 2023. After searching her clothes and bag, staff allegedly discovered $191,850 in Australian dollars, along with a small amount of Euros and other currency. The AFP alleges the woman failed to declare the money in her luggage and had told officers it was savings. She also claimed some of it had been given to her by family, including her son and daughter-in-law, authorities said. An investigation by the Criminal Assets Confiscation Taskforce (CACT) found her son and daughter-in-law had purchased six properties in Western Australia. Their value averaged up to about $4.5million in the past six years. A 65-year-old woman was allegedly carrying $191,850 in cash when she was stopped at Perth Airport in October 2023 by security staff (pictured) Members of security had spotted 'irregularities' in her luggage and checked it (pictured) The investigation found the couple's spending and asset portfolio did not seem to align with the earnings they had declared to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Police alleged the couple 'hid their true earnings' to pay less tax than required. During the investigation, the couple also allegedly purchased a property in Gnangara, in Perth's northern suburbs, worth just over $2million. The taskforce applied to the Perth District Court to have multiple assets belonging to the woman and the couple restrained on June 24, 2025. This included seven properties in Western Australia collectively worth about $6.5million, including the Gnangara property, the almost $192,000 in cash seized at Perth Airport and a bank account containing about $236,000. There is no limit to the amount of cash travellers can bring in or take out of Australia but if it is more than $10,000 it must be declared. Under Commonwealth laws, the AFP can apply to restrain assets or money even when there is no related criminal investigation or prosecution. If legal proceedings are successful, the assets are liquidated and the proceeds placed in the Commonwealth Confiscated Assets Account (CAA). Police have admitted escorting pro-migrant activists to the Epping asylum hotel where their encounter with anti-immigration protesters sparked violence. Footage of the force helping the counter-demonstrators from a nearby station to the Bell Hotel has emerged after Essex Police initially denied offering help. The group Stand up to Racism clashed with anti-migrant protesters as their 'refugees welcome' signs became a target for anger. Police were also seen in one video escorting some counter-demonstrators away from the hotel as a huge crowd of people continued to jeer. Three arrests were made in connection with Thursday's protests, which began peacefully before flaring into violence, with a police van seen driving into a protestor who appeared to be obstructing its path. And the force said a further six arrests were made on Sunday night for 'violent disorder' after the peaceful protests turned into 'mindless thuggery'. Protesters descended on The Bell Hotel in Epping which has been operating on-and-off as a migrant hotel for the last five years, after an asylum seeker was accused of committing three sexual assaults. Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, from Ethiopia, had arrived in the UK by small boat eight days prior to the alleged assaults, including trying to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Footage of the force helping the counter-demonstrators from a nearby station to the Bell Hotel has emerged after Essex Police initially denied offering help. Some have their faces covered The group Stand up to Racism clashed with anti-migrant protesters as they carried signs saying 'refugees welcome' and quickly became a target for anger Protestors gathered outside the migrant hotel where a demonstration on Thursday descended into violent chaos He has since denied three charges of sexual assault against two girls aged 14 and 16, inciting a 14-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity and harassment without violence. Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, has admitted mass migration is threatening community cohesion as fears grow over another summer of riots. Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper said: 'We have a reasonable duty to protect people who want to exercise their rights. 'In terms of bringing people to the hotel, the police have a duty to facilitate free assembly. We would only ever take people away from protest if we felt there was an immediate threat to people or property, to free up police resources, to protect others, or to prevent additional violence. 'In Epping, officers took all three of those into account before making their decisions.' Some residents have claimed the decision to escort counter-protesters made violence inevitable as social media footage has suggested the confrontation escalated shortly after their arrival - with objects reportedly thrown and minor injuries sustained, The Telegraph reports. Orla Minihane, a leader of the anti-migrant protests and a Reform UK council candidate, claimed locals felt police were almost forcing a 'confrontation' between the two groups. Reform party leader Nigel Farage said: 'I didn't want to believe this had happened and then I saw the video. It's an absolute disgrace, and the police's priorities need urgently looking at.' Bottles and smoke flares were thrown towards police vehicles stationed outside The Bell Hotel Dozens of officers were seen standing close to the protestors with riot helmets in their hands People wrapped in St George's flag faced down riot police who lined up in a queue on Hemnall Street Police officers separate 'anti-racism' demonstrators from others protesting at the scene Following the Epping protests, demonstrations spread to Norfolk amid plans to house single male asylum seekers at a hotel. Around 150 people gathered outside the Park Hotel in Diss on Monday evening. The demonstration in Norfolk started with around 60 people shouting 'we want our country back'. They were met by about 30 counter-protesters from Stand Up To Racism holding signs that read 'refugees welcome'. Footage shows them initially standing on opposite sides of the road outside the hotel. But as tension mounted, they clashed with one another, with protesters crossing the road to confront the counter-protesters. South Norfolk Council has opposed plans to change the use of the hotel to single adult male migrants, saying it only learned about it in a brief email from Whitehall last week. The Home Office is in contact with Adrian Ramsay MP and the council. The local authority argued families at the hotel had become part of the local community and replacing them with single men could see tension boil over as it has in other parts of the country. Around 150 people gathered outside The Park Hotel, in Diss, Norfolk. Protesters and counter-protesters clashed Protesters, including children, held up banners saying 'stop the boats', while others clashed with counter-protesters The Deputy Prime Minister told the Cabinet they had to 'acknowledge the real concerns people have' about immigration and economic insecurity as fears of a 'summer of riots' grew In a letter to the Home Office, council leader Daniel Elmer, wrote: 'We feel the decision and intended timeframe poses significant risks and concerns to both community cohesion and the vulnerable single males who would be residing at the hotel. 'The community impact of this change cannot be overstated. When the hotel was first opened for asylum accommodation, there was considerable unease among local residents.' He added: 'A sudden shift to a SAM [Single Adult Male] hotel risks reigniting those tensions, especially in the absence of any community engagement or mitigation strategy from the Home Office.' Meanwhile, migrant hotel protests spread to London on Tuesday night amid rumours asylum seekers housed in Epping were being moved to a four-star hotel in Canary Wharf. The Home Office has denied the claims. Between her days as a secret porn star and debuting a doomed relationship with volatile politician Mark Latham, versatile businesswoman Nathalie Matthews converted to Islam. Ten days have passed since Ms Matthews first emerged to accuse Latham of inflicting 'a sustained pattern' of psychological, financial and emotional abuse but her colourful background continues to shock. The 37-year-old, born Nathalie May Darrough, was originally described only as a Liberal Party member who owned a global logistics firm with a presence in Sydney, Dubai and Perth. It later turned out the racing enthusiast had until recently operated an OnlyFans account under the name Bondi C** S***, apparently while she ran for Sutherland Shire Council in 2021. Daily Mail Australia can now reveal the daughter of an assistant principal at a Catholic school pledged herself as a Muslim in November 2022 to become Maryam Abdullah. A 'Certificate of Declaring Islam' issued by the United Arab Emirates shows Ms Matthews using her date of birth and maiden name Darrough to formally embrace Islam. A demure picture of Ms Matthews wearing a hijab appears at the top of the certificate which lists her previous religion as Christian. The document welcomes Ms Matthews into the Islamic fold with the induction: 'We praise Allah who guided her to Islam so she should adhere to the rulings of Allah and abstain from the forbidden.' Between her career as a porn star and debuting a doomed relationship with volatile politician Mark Latham, versatile businesswoman Nathalie Matthews (above) converted to Islam A 'Certificate of Declaring Islam' issued by the United Arab Emirates (above) shows Ms Matthews using her date of birth and maiden name Darrough to formally embrace Islam Among acts forbidden by Islam are fornication - consensual sex between two people who are not married - while gambling and drinking alcohol are frowned upon. A Certificate of Islam is not required for a person to become a Muslim but some organisations provide an official document for legal or travel purposes. To gain such a certificate in the Muslim-majority UAE a convert must provide a valid passport, other identification, and one personal photo in which a woman should be wearing a hijab. Ms Matthews declined to comment on Wednesday night why she converted to Islam or whether she still considered herself to be Muslim. To become a Muslim, Ms Matthews would have recited the Shahada: 'I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.' Latham, a former member of Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party, has supported a travel ban on certain Islamic countries and a decade ago said 'in western Sydney there is a Muslim problem'. Hanson removed Latham as One Nation's NSW leader in August 2023 and he subsequently resigned from the party to sit as an independent in the upper house. If what Latham has called a 'situationship' with Ms Matthews commenced sometime before May 2022, as she has said, his One Nation membership and her newfound faith overlapped. Ms Matthews has accused Latham of inflicting 'a sustained pattern' of psychological, financial and emotional abuse. The former couple is pictured Ms Matthews is shown with most of her head and her neck covered up after converting to Islam Daily Mail Australia confirmed Ms Matthews and Latham as a couple in July 2023 after they each posted pictures of themselves to social media in the same row of seats at Wimbledon on Court 1. Ms Matthews describes herself as the managing director of Skynet Global Logistics, a company engaged in freight forwarding, a role which according to LinkedIn she has held for 19 months. Her LinkedIn profile says she has advised for Compass Logistics International, managing and developing trade between Australia and the Gulf Cooperational Council, over the same period. LinkedIn also shows Ms Matthews has been a freelance host of Import Export TV '[the] world's first and only channel dedicated to international trade and global supply chains' - since 2023. Ms Matthews states 'over the past few years' she has been working across the UAE and Australia 'helping to build companies, launch ventures, and unlock opportunities'. Earlier position with freight forwarding, supply chain and logistics companies date back to 2009, after Ms Matthews spent three years as a fulltime receptionist with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Ms Matthews married British-born Ross Matthews about seven years ago but the pair reportedly parted ways in 2022. Police are now seeking an apprehended violence order to protect Ms Matthews from her ex-husband, who has pleaded not guilty to using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend. Ms Matthews was married to British expat Ross Mathews (above on their wedding day) Ross Matthews has distanced himself from his ex-wife, only breaking his silence on social media to address the ongoing furore about her dispute with Latham. 'Please stop messaging me,' he posted on X after the scandal erupted. 'I don't speak to Nathalie and do not care. Thank you.' Daily Mail Australia revealed on Wednesday that Ms Matthews had previously been in a relationship with a man she met through the transport and logistics industry who was about 20 years older than her. After they broke up, police sought an AVO against Ms Matthews - as Nathalie Darrough - to protect the man but in June 2015 the application was withdrawn. In February 2018, Ms Matthews - still known as Darrough - pleaded guilty to shoplifting from the Camilla fashion boutique at Westfield Miranda in Sydney's south. She was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond without conviction and ordered to pay $449 to the store. None of that was known - or likely ever would have been known - until after The Australian newspaper reported on July 14 that Ms Matthews had privately sought an AVO against Latham. The AVO application follows a messy break-up of what Latham has called a 'sexed-up, consensual, open arrangement'. Leaked texts show Latham sending Ms Matthews sexually explicit messages from parliament 'Haven't c*m in days,' Latham told Ms Matthews in one message. 'Lots of c*** tension' Ms Matthews alleges 64-year-old Latham committed degrading acts including forcing her to have sex with other people and 'defecating on me before sex and refusing to let me wash'. Following the original story in The Australian, intimate WhatsApp messages between Ms Matthews and Latham were leaked to The Daily Telegraph. 'Very hard thinking about you,' Latham wrote to Ms Matthews during parliamentary sitting hours, shortly after 11am on February 20. 'Need badly to taste you,' he wrote that afternoon, alongside an emoji of a tongue. Latham has denied all abuse accusations, claiming that he had 'scores of documents' which would vindicate him, and enjoyed a 'fantastic' sex life with Ms Matthews. Daily Mail Australia revealed last Friday that Ms Matthews worked as an OnlyFans porn star for years before she started dating the former federal Labor leader. Ms Matthews' posts - where she enhanced her appearance with AI face-tuning technology - included raw video footage of herself engaged in sexual intercourse with another person, as well as hundreds of explicit images. Her account has since been taken down from OnlyFans, but the material she posted had spread to online fan sites and forums. Ms Matthews (above) alleges 64-year-old Latham committed sexually degrading acts Although Ms Matthews is thought to have been living in the Cronulla area at the time, it is understood she believed the OnlyFans venture would bring in more revenue by using 'Bondi' rather than 'Sutherland' in her online profile. Latham's lawyer Zali Burrows served WiseTech global billionaire Richard White and Ms Matthews with subpoenas related to her AVO application last Friday. The subpoena requested emails, text messages, and OnlyFans direct messages between Mr White and Ms Matthews, who connected on LinkedIn in 2023. Latham has said the subpoenas requesting communications between Mr White and Ms Matthews had not been intended to intimidate her, as she claimed. Instead, Latham insisted he wanted access to those communications to test Ms Matthews' allegations that he had forced her have sex with other men. Mr White is not accused of any wrongdoing and this publication is not suggesting he and Ms Matthews engaged in a sexual relationship. Daily Mail Australia is also not suggesting any wrongdoing by Latham, only that Ms Matthews has made allegations against him as part of applying for an AVO. A Belgian teenager has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a young British tourist off Rhodes. The 16-year-old alleged victim told police on Monday that she had been groped twice without her consent while in the sea near the Ialysos seafront, in Greece. She, with her father, complained that the 15-year-old suspect had made inappropriate contact in the water on the beach in front of their hotel. The suspect was questioned and insisted that the girl had consented, according to Greek media. The pair knew each other and 'maintained a friendly relationship' during their stay at the hotel, Dimokariki reports. Police arrested the 15-year-old by 10pm, some four hours after they were first called to the hotel. The consular authorities in the UK and Belgium respectively have been made aware. Ialysos is a small town and popular beachside resort on the island of Rhodes, in the Dodecanese. FILE PHOTO: Ialysos beach in the island of Rhodes, Greece FILE PHOTO: An aerial view of the coastal town of Ialysos, on Rhodes Police were initially called to the hotel at 17.50pm on Monday, July 21. They met the British girl with her father in the hotel and heard that the suspect had 'molested' the girl while they were in the water, on the busy beach near the hotel. Police heard that the pair had become friends while staying together at the unnamed hotel. The young girl was examined by a psychologist, Greek media reports. The 15-year-old did not deny the allegations, but insisted the girl had consented. He was arrested later that evening and brought before the Public Prosecutor's Office. Workers have been pictured hauling beds and mattresses into a four-star hotel in Canary Wharf after a night of protests in response to Government plans to house migrants there. The Metropolitan Police has erected a ring of steel outside the Britannia International Hotel, in London's financial district, following a furious response to it being transformed into a migrant hotel. Labourers dragging new furniture into the hotel were allowed through the metal fencing and police cordon in preparation for the arrival of 'hundreds' of asylum seekers. Protesters last night gathered outside the hotel amid reports asylum seekers were being transferred from Epping to the capital, although the Home Office later clarified this was not the case. Tower Hamlets Council did, however, confirm the Government intends to use the hotel - which has around 500 rooms - for asylum seekers in a move which has angered anti-migrant protesters and guests whose bookings have been cancelled. Last night's action marks the latest anti-migrant protest, with Sir Keir Starmer warned Britain could face a second 'summer of riots' if Labour fails to get a grip on migrant hotels. It follows a string of violent demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel, in Epping after an asylum seeker was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl eight days after arriving in the UK. Essex Police is facing major questions after footage emerged of officers escorting pro-migrant activists to the hotel - despite the force initially denying this has happened. But Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington today defended the force's handling of the protests, rejected claims of preferential treatment for pro-migrant protesters and dismissed calls to resign. The hotel has been cordoned off but workers were seen bringing beds and mattresses inside this morning Dozens of police officers were deployed to the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf last night Protesters gathered outside the hotel, some wearing masks and others draped in St George's flags Police officers blocked access to the hotel which the Government intends to use to house migrants It comes as footage of Essex Police helping counter-demonstrators from a nearby station to the Bell Hotel in Epping on July 17 emerged after the force initially denied offering help Reform UK leader Nigel Farage had called for Chief Constable Harrington to quit, saying the footage was 'absolutely disgraceful' and 'heads must roll'. He later posted footage allegedly showing pro-migrant protesters being 'bussed' to the demonstration in police vans but Essex Police said this was 'categorically' untrue. Protests have since spread to other parts of the country, with more than 150 gathering outside The Park Hotel, in Diss, Norfolk on Monday after the Home Office announced plans to change it from housing asylum-seeker families to single men. Amid warnings 'discontent is real' in Britain, Met Police officers were called to the Britannia International Hotel, on Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf, last night. Footage on social media shows eggs were thrown, while a police helicopter was circling above as officers on the ground blocked the entrance to the hotel which has more than 500 rooms and is located on the waterfront of the South Dock. The Canary Wharf protest did not reach the violence seen in Epping, with YouTuber-types making up a large proportion of the crowd in preparation for any tension. However, there were still dozens of protesters - some wearing masks and others draped in St George's flags. One placard said: 'This is a peaceful protest to protect our own.' Counter-protesters also gathered outside the scene - and in one clip appeared to be escorted away from the hotel by police as protesters followed behind. Furious hotel guests have left damning reviews online, claiming they were told their stays were 'cancelled'. One wrote: 'My confirmed reservation was cancelled less than 24 hours before my stay via a brief phone call, citing a 'private hire' event.' Another said: 'Completely unprofessional company. Hotel cancelled my booking at last minute because they had a bulk booking.' And a third fumed: 'Booked in for three nights on 18th July. Told we couldn't stay on Sunday night no explanation but waiter said they were closing. Left to go to other hotel 1 hr away on Sunday. Waste of a day.' While guests claimed they were not given a reason for the cancellations, a spokesman for Tower Hamlets Council confirmed: 'We are aware of the Government's decision to use the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf to provide temporary accommodation for asylum seekers. 'It is important that the Government ensures that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. 'We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place.' There was a significant police presence with dozens of officers guarding the hotel last night after rumours spread on social media that the Epping migrants had been moved to the venue, though the Home Office said that was not the case. Reform UK chief whip Lee Anderson said he was 'absolutely furious'. He wrote on X: 'Canary Wharf. The International Hotel is now in lockdown as they prepare for an influx of illegal migrants. 500 rooms here. What are we playing at?' Trouble first broke out in Epping last Thursday after Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was charged with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in the town by attempting to kiss her. He denies the charges. A police officer sits in a car outside the entrance of the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf A police cordon and fencing is placed outside the Britannia International Hotel this morning A person waves an English flag from a car as it passes the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf One placard brought by a group of protesters said: 'This is a peaceful protest to protect our own.' Amid warnings 'discontent is real' in Britain, Met Police officers were called to the Britannia International Hotel, on Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf, last night Furious hotel guests have left damning reviews online, claiming they were told their stays were 'cancelled' Police officers gather in front of counter-protesters outside the Canary Wharf hotel The protest started peacefully, but descended into frenzied violence when anti-migrant demonstrators clashed with counter protesters and police. Last night, police admitted escorting pro-migrant protesters to the Bell Hotel following days of volatile protests. Essex Police initially denied it had brought the Stand Up to Racism activists following claims from anti-migrant protesters that it was the counter-protesters who sparked the July 17 violence. However, the force has now backtracked after footage showed them escorting the pro-migrant activists from a nearby station to the hotel. Mr Farage, who this week claimed Britain was getting close to 'civil disobedience on a vast scale', wrote on X: 'Essex Police escorted ANTIFA protesters to the Bell Hotel in Epping to force a confrontation. Initially they denied that it had ever happened in the first place. Heads must roll.' The Reform leader later posted footage of what he claimed to be pro-migrant protesters being transported to the Bell Hotel in police vans. 'There is no way Chief Constable BJ Harrington can stay in position,' he wrote. At a press conference today, Chief Constable Harrington rejected claims his officers had given a higher level of protection to pro-migrant protesters. 'No, I don't accept that,' he said. 'The only protection that officers are doing is to those lawful and law-abiding people, whether they are in that accommodation, whether they are the people of Epping or whether they are people who are standing there with placards and banners wishing to make a very important and legitimate view, whichever your views about it. 'Where officers have intervened that is because there has been disorder...We are not being partial in any way, shape or form.' When asked if he would resign, he said: 'No, I am not going to do that. This is not about me, this is about the communities of Essex... the issue is not about my resignation.' He said Essex Police have made 10 arrests, adding: 'What has been unacceptable has been the people who have come to Epping and committed violence, who have attacked people who work at the hotel, who have attacked officers, who have damaged property and who have caused fear and disruption to the people of Epping. 'That is not tolerable, it will not be tolerated, and to that end, we have made 10 arrests.' In a warning to Mr Farage and other politicians about their online posts, he added: 'It is not the police's job to clamp down on elected politicians... All I am asking is that people are responsible about what they say and they consider the real world consequences.' On Tuesday, MPs and council leaders raised fears that Britain could be heading for another 'summer of riots' - in a repeat of the street violence that followed the Southport murders 12 months ago. Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner warned that anger at high levels of illegal immigration is risking social cohesion in Britain's poorest communities and must be addressed. Her comments came after Sir Keir Starmer was warned by Epping Forest Council Leader Christ Whitbread that the UK is a 'powder keg' that could explode. Newly appointed shadow housing secretary Sir James Cleverly also weighed in this morning, criticising the Prime Minister for a 'disconnect from reality' when it comes to housing asylum seekers. The Tory MP and former home secretary said asylum hotels are being reopened and that more asylum seekers are likely to be sent to an accommodation centre in his own constituency of Braintree. 'The Government has lost control,' he told LBC. 'And to add insult to injury, we saw the Prime Minister at the Liaison Committee just this week blithely saying, oh, there are plenty of houses for asylum seekers, when there are people all over the country struggling to get on the housing ladder, and that complete disconnect from reality, I think, is driving a lot of frustrations. 'There is never an excuse for rioting, and I'll make that absolutely clear, but the Government really is making a difficult situation significantly worse.' He said that people who live close to facilities housing asylum seekers are 'typically well behaved' but that there are 'agitators, both of the left and the right, imposing themselves on local communities to try and play out a political agenda, and local people are caught in the crossfire'. A row of police officers were seen blocking the entrance to the Britannia International Hotel There was a significant police presence with officers guarding the hotel last night Dozens of protesters gather outside the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf on Tuesday The demonstration took place on Tuesday evening outside the Britannia Hotel, in Canary Wharf, which Tower Hamlets Council has confirmed the government intends to use for asylum seekers The Government should be seen to be 'on the side of the people who play by the rules, rather than on the side of the people who abuse the system, jump the queue and try and exploit our hospitality,' he said. Protesters are already plotting to take action outside more migrant hotels in the coming days. Conservative Councillor Daniel Elmer, who leads South Norfolk Council, yesterday told MailOnline 'the risk of public discontent is real' as he responded to the protests outside The Park Hotel in Diss. He added: 'I think that is unarguable. The fact that we already have protests proves that there is a risk of the public getting very, very upset with this to the point they're prepared to go out on the streets to stop it.' Speaking about the protests at the hotel, he added: 'I think the anger here is completely understandable. I think they probably feel a bit taken advantage of because this was meant to be a family hotel. 'It was largely accepted two years ago on that basis. And now it feels like the Home Office is changing the goalposts again.' Since 2023, the 19-room hotel - in the centre of Diss - has been used to house asylum seeker families, including several women and children, but there are fears the change to single adult men could bring tension to the market town. Bottles and smoke flares thrown towards police vehicles stationed outside The Bell Hotel on July 20 Dozens of officers were seen standing close to the protesters with riot helmets in their hands on July 20 People wrapped in St George's flag faced down riot police who lined up in a queue on Hemnall Street on July 20 Police officers separate 'anti-racism' demonstrators from others protesting at the scene on July 13 Migrant hotels usually house two asylum seekers per room, meaning there could be at least 38 men bussed into Diss. But the council say the Home Office has not confirmed the numbers yet and they are 'incredibly disappointed' at the short notice. Mr Elmer said that it is crucial how 'safe people feel' in the 'very small tight-knit community' of Diss, adding: 'It is indisputably true that lots of young adult men make people feel less safe than women and children. 'I understand why people are angry, and I would never want belittle that anger. I think it is obviously concerning if there is a risk of anything becoming violent.' As well as the protests in Diss and Epping, demonstrations have already been planned in other parts of Norfolk and Worcestershire on Saturday, stoking fears more riots are on the way. Mr Elmer said it was 'absolutely true' that there is a risk of more violence on the streets this summer. Amid growing fears of further violence, Angela Rayner today told the Cabinet this morning they had to 'acknowledge the real concerns people have' about immigration and economic insecurity, hours after the anti-migrant clashes in Norfolk. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said today that Ms Rayner warned the Cabinet '17 of the 18 places that saw the worst of the disorder last summer ranked at the top of the most deprived, and while Britain was a successful multi-ethnic, multi-faith country, the Government had to show it had a plan to address people's concerns (and) provide opportunities for everyone to flourish'. Around 150 people gathered outside The Park Hotel, in Diss, Norfolk, on Monday. Protesters and counter-protesters clashed Protesters, including children, held up banners saying 'stop the boats', while others clashed with counter-protesters The Deputy Prime Minister told the Cabinet they had to 'acknowledge the real concerns people have' about immigration and economic insecurity as fears of a 'summer of riots' grew 'I think she sees a link between concerns that people have about where the Government is acting on their behalf and acting in their interests, and a range of factors,' he said. 'High levels of immigration over the last 10 years, including illegal immigration, but also, importantly, the cost of living, economic security, the rapid pace of technological change and deindustrialisation and changes in the economy, these are all factors that have had an impact on our social fabric and social cohesion.' A spokesman for the Met Police said: 'Officers were in attendance at a protest outside a hotel in Canary Wharf on Tuesday, 22 July. 'No arrests were made. Officers remain in the area to deal with any incidents.' A fresh search for the remains of Port Lincoln man Julian Story has been unsuccessful, however, police said several 'items of interest' have been found. The 39-year-old was allegedly murdered by his partner, former Beauty and the Geek contestant Tamika Chesser, 34, at their Port Lincoln home on June 17. Investigators are still hunting for Story's allegedly decapitated head. Story's family revealed on Wednesday they will hold his funeral on August 7, despite the search still ongoing. South Australian Police said on Wednesday that Major Crime detectives, the STAR Group and Eyre Western officers scoured multiple locations around Port Lincoln after new intelligence identified fresh search zones. 'Specialist equipment has been used in the hopes authorities can locate Mr Story's remains and give his family closure,' Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke said. The operation turned up at least three items, a T-shirt, a drink bottle and a wristband, near the town's cemetery, according to 10 News First. A second location was later searched. While the items will undergo forensic testing, police said there was still no trace of human remains. Police did not locate Story's head, but did find several 'items of interest' on Wednesday The family of Julian Story (pictured) planned his funeral, which will take place in Port Lincoln Williams Funeral Services in Port Lincoln announced details of a memorial service for Story. 'Taken from us on Tuesday June 17, 2025,' the funeral notice reads. 'Aged 39 years. Dearly loved son of David and Cathie. Stepson of Pam. Much loved by all his aunties, uncles and cousins.' The service will be held next Wednesday at St Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Port Lincoln. Instead of flowers, the family is encouraging donations to a local mental health charity. 'No flowers by request, in lieu of floral tributes, a donation in Julian's memory can be made to Mentally Fit EP,' the notice reads. 'Envelopes will be available at the Church. It also confirmed that 'a private cremation has taken place'. Police are still looking for the head of Julian Story (pictured) who was allegedly killed by his girlfriend Tamika Chesser Tamika Chesser (pictured) has been charged over Julian Story's alleged murder Chesser, a former cocktail waitress, was thrust into the spotlight at the age of 19 when she appeared on series two of the Seven Network show in 2010. She allegedly killed story on June 17 at their Flinders Highway unit. She has been charged with murder and with interfering with human remains to pervert the course of justice. His body was found in the bathroom of their unit but police previously revealed Story's head was missing. In the days after the alleged murder, a neighbour told The Advertiser he had run into Story's unit to extinguish what he thought was a smouldering fire, only to learn from police later that it was his remains. Authorities have since scoured bushland, parks, reserves, and the popular Parnkalla Trail for evidence. Specialist divers also searched Boston Bay, assisted by SES volunteers, but without success. An elite private all-girls Catholic school in Brisbane has been rocked after the tragic death of a student. All Hallows' School closed on Tuesday after making the heartbreaking announcement that Year Nine student Stella Medeiros-Hodge had died by suicide over the weekend. The Fortitude Valley campus has a reputation as one of the best girls schools in the country, with parents charged upwards of $17,500 each year for domestic students. Catherine O'Kane, the principal of the 159-year-old institution, revealed the tragic news in an email sent to parents, caregivers and the extended school community. She said Ms Medeiros-Hodge had died on Sunday, in the correspondence sent on Tuesday afternoon. 'It is with profound sadness I share news of the passing of Stella Medeiros-Hodge, Year 9 (Whitty), overnight on Sunday,' the email, seen by the Courier Mail, read. 'Stella is the beloved daughter of Lucia and Iain and the sister of Isabella (Year 12).' Understandably, the email told the school community Ms Medeiros-Hodge's family had requested privacy. 'I know that our community will respect this with the utmost sensitivity and care,' the email continued. Principal Catherine O'Kane (pictured) announced the news of the tragic death in an email sent to parents, caregivers and the extended school community on Tuesday Elite Catholic all-girls private school All Hallows' (pictured) temporarily closed on Tuesday The principal confirmed some scheduled school activities have been postponed and did not say when they would resume. Spirit week activities would not continue as normal and the Adderton house mass scheduled for Wednesday morning has been postponed, she said. Other scheduled school activities would continue as planned. Ms O'Kane encouraged parents to speak with their daughters about how they can sensitively react to the news on social media. On Tuesday, parents were seen arriving at the school to pick up their children at 2pm. The principal warned parents to monitor their children's interactions with social media and the amount of time they spend online. Details of Ms Medeiros-Hodge's funeral will be shared with the school community when available. Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 Lifeline on 13 11 14 This is the moment an exhausted migrant is rescued by sailors after trying to cross the perilous Strait of Gibraltar with flippers and a rubber ring. The man, believed to be from Morocco, was spotted by the crew of a passing sailboat around 12 miles off the coast of Malaga, Spain on Saturday. Footage shows a sailor shouting: 'We have spotted a castaway and we are getting ready to pick him up', as the man begins to come into view. The migrant, who is strapped to a rubber ring, is seen swimming towards the vessel, as crew members throw him a rope to hold onto. He grabs onto the cord and is pulled by sailors onto the boat and flops onto his back motionless with a pained expression on his face. One passenger says: 'Water, water', as he pats the migrant on the back as he tells him, 'don't worry'. After plucking the man from the sea, the sailors brought him a change of clothes, a blanket, water and some food. His rescuers, a family from southern Spain who were on their way to the Balearic Islands, initially confused the migrant for a bird or large fish before seeing it was a man in distress. A migrant was rescued on Saturday by sailors after trying to cross the perilous Strait of Gibraltar with flippers and a rubber ring The man, believed to be from Morocco, was spotted by the crew of a passing sailboat around 12 miles off the coast of Malaga Crew members threw him a cord to hold onto and dragged him onto the sailboat The family contacted coastguard, who mobilised a vessel to collect the migrant from the sailboat before transferring him to the port of Malaga. His whereabouts and condition were not immediately clear this morning, but he was reportedly severely dehydrated when he was first rescued. It is not exactly known where he started his treacherous journey, but he was found around 13 miles to the south of the Spanish resort of Benalmadena between Torremolinos and Funegirola on the Costa del Sol when he was first spotted. The Strait of Gibraltar separates North Africa from Europe and it is a common route used by scores of illegal immigrants to reach Spain. In 2024, Spain received a record number of migrants who crossed illegally via sea, with more than 61,000 people having arrived on boat. In a recently-published report, an organisation called Caminando Fronteras said it had recorded the deaths of nearly 2,000 migrants trying to reach Spain by sea from Africa in the first five months of this year. Fifty-two of those had been making the Strait of Gibraltar crossing, the group said as it revealed the deadliest route was the one from Western Africa to the Canary Islands. Of the 1,865 people recorded as dead or missing, it said 112 were women and 342 children. One the migrant is brought to the boat, he flops onto his back as sailors comfort him and offer him water Aerial view of the Strait of Gibralatar, which separates Europe and Africa. It is a common route used by scores of illegal immigrants to reach Spain Caminando Fronteras also revealed 38 boats had disappeared with all people on board between the start of January and end of May 2025. The astonishing rescue comes after a Moroccan man was rescued eight miles from land by a passenger ferry as he tried to make the treacherous crossing in the inner tube of a lorry tyre. Jose Maraver, second in command at the coastguard coordination centre in the southern Spanish town of Tarifa, said at the time: 'He was midday between Spain and Morocco when he was picked up, around eight miles south-east of Tarifa. 'He would have drifted further towards the Mediterranean if he hadn't been spotted and would never have made it to dry land without help. 'He was lucky the passenger ferry that spotted him didn't go over him. He would have been very low in the water and difficult to see. 'The area he was in is a very busy shipping channel and very dangerous for someone like this man in the precarious situation he was in.' The migrant's rescue on Saturday also comes shortly after Spain faced violent clashes between far-right groups and police over immigration. In 2024, Spain received a record number of migrants who crossed illegally via sea, with more than 61,000 people having arrived on boat. Pictured: A boat carrying migrants in the Strait of Gibraltar Another report recorded the deaths of nearly 2,000 migrants trying to reach Spain by sea from Africa in the first five months of this year PICTURED: Migrants disembark from a Spanish Maritime Rescue vessel in the Port of Arguineguin on the Canary Island of Gran Canaria, on July 10, 2023 Clashes in Torre-Pacheco in the Murcia region in southeastern Spain took place earlier this month after an elderly resident was beaten up by unknown assailants, which led to a call by far-right groups to seek retribution on the area's large migrant community. A major police presence was moved into Torre-Pacheco, which has a population of roughly 42,000. About a third of its residents are of foreign origin, according to local government figures. Large numbers of migrants also work in the surrounding area as day laborers in agriculture, a major driver of the regional economy. An Albanian crime boss, a hawala banker and a former police translator are among 24 people smugglers hit with sanctions in the Government's latest small boat crackdown. A Chinese company advertising 'refugee boats' has also been included on a list of individuals and entities who will have any UK assets frozen and be banned from travelling to Britain in the same way as Russian oligarchs. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has described the move as a 'landmark moment in the Government's work to tackle organised immigration crime (and) reduce irregular migration to the UK'. The measures aim to target organised crime gangs and disrupt their flow of cash, including freezing bank accounts, property and other assets, to hinder their activities. It will be illegal for UK businesses and banks to deal with anyone named on the list. But experts warn the sanctions will have little impact given most smugglers do not use traditional banking methods or are based abroad beyond the reach of British officials. Among those sanctioned today is Bledar Lala, an Albanian who controls the 'Belgium operations' of an organised criminal group involved in Channel crossings. Among those sanctioned today is Bledar Lala, an Albanian crime boss, and Goran Assad Jalal, who allegedly smuggled migrants in refrigerated lorries Hawala banker Muhammed Khadir Pirot and Mariwan Jamal, who is also involved in making money transfers through the traditional banking system Migrants try to scramble onto an overloaded dinghy near Wimereux in France The UK is also sanctioning Alen Basil, a former police translator who went on to lead a large smuggling network in Serbia. He was subsequently found to be living in a house in Serbia worth more than one million Euros. Also sanctioned is Mohammed Tetwani, the self-styled 'King of Horgos', who brutally oversaw a migrant camp in Horgos, Serbia and led the Tetwani people-smuggling gang. Tetwani and his followers are known for their violent treatment of refugees who decline their services or cannot pay for them. The package also includes individuals like Muhammed Khadir Pirot, a hawala banker. Hawala is an ancient money transfer method that allows small boat migrants to pay smugglers - and the criminals to compensate their associates - without leaving any official record. Sanctions have also been brought against Weihai Yamar Outdoors Product Co, a Chinese company that has sold dinghies specifically advertised as 'refugee boats' on the online marketplace Alibaba. Sanctions have also been brought against Weihai Yamar Outdoors Product Co, a Chinese company. Pictured is an advert for some of its products Your browser does not support iframes. Hemin Ali Salih, who helped smuggle migrants into the UK in the backs of lorries David Lammy said: 'From Europe to Asia we are taking the fight to the people-smugglers who enable irregular migration, targeting them wherever they are in the world and making them pay for their actions. 'My message to the gangs who callously risk vulnerable lives for profit is this: we know who you are, and we will work with our partners around the world to hold you to account.' But Roger Gherson, managing partner and sanctions expert at Gherson Solicitors, dismissed the sanctions as political theatre. 'Proposals to use these on people smugglers is nothing more than bluster and an obvious PR exercise for the Government to be seen to be dealing with the problem,' he told MailOnline. 'Most of these smugglers will no doubt operate outside of normal banking system in any case, and most probably in cash. To divert limited police and National Crime Agency (NCA) resources to this will only stretch our much-needed resources further.' Dr Peter Walsh, of the University of Oxford's Migration Observatory, said the measures were 'unlikely to be a game changer' in small boat crossings - not least because gangs usually operate in foreign countries. 'They might be restricted in the UK, but if someone can just go elsewhere, then that defeats the whole purpose of the sanctions,' he told the i. 'You can ban people from opening bank accounts in the UK but they'll open a bank account elsewhere. 'A lot of the financing for smuggling operates outside of the traditional banking system, using wireless transfers that are notoriously difficult to clamp down on.' Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. NCA Director General Graeme Biggar said: The NCA is determined to use every tool at our disposal to target, disrupt and dismantle the criminal networks involved in people-smuggling, preventing harm to those they exploit for profit and protecting the UK's border security. 'These new sanctions powers will complement that NCA activity. We have worked with the FCDO and partners to progress the designation of these sanctioned persons. How the Hawala system helps pay for crossings 1 - Smuggler gives migrant in one country, such as Iraq, a list of trusted money transfer agents (Hawaladars). They give cash to them alongside the smuggler's details and a code. 2 - When a UK-based smuggler wants their money, they contact a linked hawaladar in Britain and give them a secret code to release the funds. 3 - When someone wants to send money from the UK to Iraq, the debt balances out - meaning no actual money has to be sent across borders. Advertisement 'They will give the UK a new way of pursuing, undermining and frustrating the operational capability of a wide range of organised immigration crime networks, including those who facilitate or enable offending.' The Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons sanctions regime has been introduced through secondary legislation and will be debated by Parliament after the summer. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said the sanctions would not deter people from crossing the Channel in small boats, with a record 23,000 arriving so far this year. 'The truth is you don't stop the Channel crossings by freezing a few bank accounts in Baghdad or slapping a travel ban on a dinghy dealer in Damascus. 'Swathes of young men are arriving daily, in boats bought online, guided by traffickers who laugh at our laws and cash in on our weakness,' he said. '2025 has been the worst year on record for illegal boat crossings, with over 23,000 already this year and more than 46,000 since Labour came to power. 'The gangs aren't scared - because Labour won't detain, deport or even pretend to enforce the border. We must deport illegal immigrants immediately on arrival, it is the only way to end the pull factor and deter crossings.' Labour has been warned that tax raids on the wealthy are already 'backfiring' amid signs that Rachel Reeves is preparing to come back for more. Analysts have pointed to figures showing capital gains tax receipts dipping in the first half of the year, despite the Chancellor hiking rates. Meanwhile, the boss of Goldman Sachs has raised concerns that further efforts to bring in revenue could fuel an exodus, with London's status as a financial hub 'fragile'. Ms Reeves is desperately hunting for options to increase taxes as she faces an estimated 30billion black hole in the public finances at the Autumn Budget. The tax burden is already set to hit a new high as a proportion of GDP after the last Budget imposed a 41billion increase - the biggest on record for a single package. Labour has ruled out increasing income tax, employee national insurance or VAT. Your browser does not support iframes. Labour has been warned that tax raids on the wealthy are already 'backfiring' amid signs that Rachel Reeves is preparing to come back for more Challenged on whether taxes at around 38 per cent of GDP represented a 'ceiling', the Chancellor stressed that her rules only covered spending and debt The Chancellor again refused to rule out a wealth tax yesterday, with backbenchers floating a percentage charge on assets to raise billions of pounds a year. However, Shaun Moore, tax and financial planning expert at investment firm Quilter, warned such moves could actually cause more harm to revenues after a crackdown on 'non doms'. At the Budget last year Ms Reeves increased the lower rate of CGT from 10 per cent to 18 per cent and the higher rate from 20 per cent to 24 per cent. But in the first six months of this year the tax raked in 11.8 billion, compared to 13.5billion during the same period in 2024. The receipts for 2024-25 were around 200million lower than the Treasury's OBR watchdog had anticipated. The body has forecast that revenues will surge in 2025-26. 'The government's decision to slash capital gains tax allowances and hike rates has backfired,' Mr Moore said. 'The policy may have been designed to raise revenue, but it's instead prompted behavioural shifts that have dented the tax take.' He added: 'While taxing the wealthiest may sound politically appealing, the CGT experience shows that people will change behaviour or adjust their financial plans to mitigate the tax bills.' Goldman Sachs chairman and chief executive David Solomon told Sky News presenter Wilfred Frost's The Master Investor Podcast that talent in the financial industry was 'much more mobile' than 25 years ago. 'London continues to be an important financial centre. But because of Brexit, because of the way the world's evolving, the talent that was more centred here is more mobile,' Mr Solomon said. 'We as a firm have many more people on the continent. Policy matters, incentives matter. 'I'm encouraged by some of what the current government is talking about in terms of supporting business and trying to support a more growth oriented agenda. 'But if you don't set a policy that keeps talent here, that encourages capital formation here, I think over time you risk that.' Mr Solomon cautioned that the status of the City of London was 'fragile' and could 'fray' if not treated with care. CGT receipts for 2024-25 were around 200million lower than the Treasury's OBR watchdog had anticipated. The body has forecast that revenues will surge in 2025-26 The public sector borrowed 20.7billion last month, far higher than the 17.6billion analysts had pencilled in 'Incentives matter if you create tax policy or incentives that push people away, you harm your economy,' he said. 'If you go back, you know, ten years ago, I think we probably had 80 people in Paris. 'You know, we have 400 people in Paris now... And so in Goldman Sachs today, if you're in Europe, you can live in London, you can live in Paris, you can live in Germany, in Frankfurt or Munich, you can live in Italy, you can live in Switzerland. 'And we've got, you know, real offices. You just have to recognise talent is more mobile.' A prison officer whose ear was sliced off by a terrorist was beaten unconscious by another inmate armed with a kettle soon after returning to work. The sickening attack took place just five months after the man was hospitalised when Muslim convert Nathan Ruth, 18, slashed the man's ear off at Feltham Young Offenders, Britain's most violent prison. Colleagues of the wounded officer claim the horrifying incident could have been prevented had he been issued with pepper spray. Use of the incapacitant PAVA spray in young offenders' institutions was signed off by the justice secretary in April but the devices are yet to be fully rolled out. Two months before the kettle attack, the same teenage inmate - jailed for possessing a knife - assaulted another officer, stamping on his head and leaving him with a bleed on the brain, a source said. 'There has been resistance to providing us with PAVA spray from various groups who have no idea what life inside a young offenders institute is like, campaigning for the inmates because they are young,' the source said. 'These are teenagers - but they are also rapists, murderers, and some are six foot four. 'We need the right protection or it is a matter of time before someone is dead.' The sickening attacks took place at Feltham Young Offenders, Britain's most violent prison The officer had previously had his ear sliced by terrorist Nathan Ruth (pictured aged four), jailed over a plot to attack a music festival The attack is the latest in a string of horrifying assaults on prison staff, including from Southport killer Axel Rudakubana, 18, who in April used a kettle in his cell to boil water which he then launched over an officer at HMP Belmarsh. This came just weeks after Manchester Arena bomber Hashem Abedi attacked three prison officers at HMP Frankland, stabbing them with homemade weapons and throwing hot cooking oil on them. The source said that when the officer entered the prisoner's cell, the young man appeared calm but when he approached the bed he shot up and began bludgeoning him with the kettle. The prison officer is understood to have been hospitalised with a severe concussion. 'The bloke has been badly assaulted twice in a year and is getting no support from the service,' the source said. 'He hasn't been back since the assault four weeks ago. His mental health is in bits - and he has since found out that his attacker has kept his television and can order what he wants from the canteen. 'It's enough to send anyone over the edge and question why on earth they would do this job.' Hashem Abedi, brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, attacked three prison officers at HMP Frankland in County Durham, giving them life threatening injuries Abedi had previously attacked a custody manager at HMP Belmarsh in 2022 Another prison source said: 'Somebody is going to die soon. 'Back in April we were told by the secretary of state we were getting Pava in the youth estates - but still nothing. 'Feltham is the most violent prison in the country - and we have nothing to protect ourselves. 'Unless something changes soon - somebody is going to die. We are constantly told The MOJ take staff assaults seriously - but it's just words. It means nothing.' It is understood that the young offender involved was taken to the separation unit following the attack, and a referral has been made to the police. Specially trained staff in the youth estate will be issued PAVA spray this summer. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: 'We take a zero-tolerance approach to violence and will always push for the strongest punishments for anyone found guilty of assaulting another young person or member of staff.' Teenage terrorist Ruth was jailed for seven years in 2024 after being convicted of plotting an attack at the Isle of Wight Festival. The inmate behind the kettle attack cannot be named for legal reasons. Workers in France have been told to stop being in denial and accept that they 'do not work enough' as the government aims to clampdown on soaring levels of absenteeism. Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is cracking down on those who pull a sickie in an attempt to 'reconcile the French with work', and save the country from bankruptcy. The country has fewer people working than its neighbours and spends the most on benefits, 'yet the French are increasingly dissatisfied with their public services and we are the most pessimistic country in the world', the prime minister said last week when laying out plans for next year's budget. President Emmanuel Macron tasked Bayrou with crafting a budget that shaves costs to bring down France's staggering debt and deficit - while also adding billions in new defense spending to face what Macron says are resurgent threats from Russia and beyond. His proposed measures include scrapping two public holidays, putting pressure on doctors to stop handing out notes for non-existent symptoms and getting people off work to tell their employers the medical condition they are suffering from. The level of absence from work in France is one of Europe's highest and at least double that of Britain. Nearly six percent of employees in the private sector are off sick from work at any time, while the rate of absenteeism has soared by 40 percent over the last five years. Between 2014 and 2022, there was a 79 percent increase in public servants taking sick leave. Workers in France have been told to stop being in denial and accept that they 'do not work enough' as the government aims to clampdown on soaring levels of absenteeism. File photo: French people visit a typical Parisian cafe in the French capital Prime Minister Francois Bayrou is cracking down on those who pull a sickie in an attempt to 'reconcile the French with work' President Emmanuel Macron tasked Bayrou with crafting a budget that shaves costs to bring down France's staggering debt and deficit Meanwhile, people staying off work for 'psycho-social' conditions have jumped since the pandemic. The cost of these absences is estimated at up to 80 billion euros, or 69 billion. But his plans have sparked outrage among opposition groups on the left and right sides of the political spectrum. In addition, unions have accused the government of trying to 'destroy the health of the French' as they crack down on sick leave. Parliament is set to vote on Bayrou's 2026 budget this autumn. With no parliamentary majority, Macrons centrist grouping must win support from adversaries on the left and right to pass the budget. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has come under fire after signing a bill that strips two key anti-corruption agencies of their autonomy. The move has triggered rare mass protests in Kyiv and backlash from the European Union. Hundreds have taken to the streets in the capital to rebuke the legislation in a public display of anger that has not been seen since the start of Russia's invasion. Critics now say the law will hand sweeping control to Zelensky and permit political interference in corruption investigations. The European Union has branded the president's decision a 'serious step back' with a senior official suggesting it could jeopardise the country's hopes of joining the bloc. Writing on X, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos condemned the vote, saying independent anti-corruption institutions were 'essential for Ukraine's EU path'. She said: 'Seriously concerned over today's vote. The dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABU's independence is a serious step back.' On Wednesday, Zelenksy broke his silence on the backlash he has received in a social media post. The move has triggered rare mass protests in Kyiv and a furious backlash from the European Union Hundreds have taken to the streets in the capital to rebuke the legislation An NGO has warned the bill would gut both bodies, saying the prosecutor general would 'stop investigations into all of the president's friends Writing after a meeting with officials of the anti-corruption bodies at the centre of the controversy, he said: 'We all share a common enemy: the Russian occupiers. 'And defending the Ukrainian state requires a strong enough law enforcement and anti-corruption system one that ensures a real sense of justice. 'Criminal proceedings must not drag on for years without lawful verdicts. And those who work against Ukraine must not feel comfortable or immune to the inevitability of punishment. He added: 'We agreed that everyone would work solely in a constructive manner. We all hear what society is saying. We see what people expect from state institutions ensured justice and the effective functioning of each institution. 'We discussed the necessary administrative and legislative decisions that would strengthen the work of each institution, resolve existing contradictions, and eliminate threats. Everyone will work together. At the political level, we will provide support.' Despite the statement, the president did not announce a reversal of the legislation. The law, approved by 263 votes to 13 in Ukraine's parliament, will place the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) under the authority of the prosecutor general, who is appointed by the president. NABU is tasked with investigating corruption in public institutions, while SAPO handles prosecution. In a statement, the president said he had met with officials of the anti-corruption bodies at the centre of the controversy but he didn't announce a reversal of the law Protesters gathered outside government buildings to voice their outrage, and erupted in boos and jeers when news broke that it had been signed Critics help up signs to protest against the law, which critics say will hand sweeping control to Zelensky and permit political interference in corruption investigations The Anti-Corruption Action Centre, an NGO, warned the bill would gut both bodies, saying the prosecutor general would 'stop investigations into all of the president's friends'. Protesters gathered outside government buildings to voice their outrage, and erupted in boos and jeers when news broke that it had been signed. A European diplomat speaking anonymously told reporters the decision was 'unfortunate'. According to the AFP, the official said: 'Is it a setback? Yes. Is this a point of non-return? No.' Meanwhile, the country's former foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, who resigned from the government in 2024, called it a 'bad day for Ukraine'. He said: 'Now the President has a choice - to stand on the side of the people or not.' Just a day before the vote, law enforcement raided NABU's offices, detaining an employee accused of spying for Russia. Transparency International's office in Ukraine described the raids as an 'attempt by the authorities to undermine the independence of Ukraine's post-Revolution of Dignity anti-corruption institutions.' The country's former foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, who resigned from the government in 2024, called it a 'bad day for Ukraine Ukraine ranked 105th out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2024 corruption perceptions index, a notable improvement from 144th in 2013. The nation's recent anti-corruption drive has been central to its push for EU membership and a condition for receiving support from Western allies. An Aussie prankster has infuriated a minor political party that supports squatter's rights by filming himself pretending to be homeless inside its offices. Drew Pavlou - known for his activism against the Chinese Communist Party - arrived uninvited at the Victorian Socialists headquarters in Melbourne on Tuesday with a camera rolling and said he was moving in before pulling out a sleeping bag. The party's lead Senate candidate is Jordan van den Lamb, also known online as Purplepingers, who urged people in 2024 to squat in vacant homes. 'Hello guys, I'm at the Victorian Socialists Office,' Pavlou announced in the video. 'They actually support squatting, they support people getting inside buildings and squatting. So I thought I would squat inside the Victorian Socialists HQ.' He then amps up the performance by lying down on the floor and wrapping himself in his sleeping bag. 'I'm homeless and I'm a meth addict and I haven't been able to get housing due to the capitalist system, so I thought I would just crash here for a few nights.' A visibly uncomfortable staff member repeatedly asks him to stop filming and leave, which he does, just under a minute after arriving, as soon as his cameraman lowers the camera. A high-profile incident in April 2025, when a Melbourne woman's home was broken into after the address was shared online, was linked to a post made by van den Lamb. The squatters changed the locks, sold her late father's possessions, and left her with a $70,000 repair bill, a cost her insurer refused to cover. At the time, Pavlou criticised van den Lamb, calling him 'unhinged.' After the stunt, Pavlou posted to social media slamming the Victorian Socialists as hypocrites. 'The Victorian Socialists officially support breaking into homes and squatting so I thought I would take a sleeping bag and pillow and try sleep in their front office for a few nights,' Pavlou wrote. 'They threatened to call the police on me as an unhoused neurodivergent POC. Zero solidarity.' In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, Pavlou said he was 'shattered' by van den Lamb and the Victorian socialists. 'I'm personally shattered that Purple Pingers and the Victorian Socialists wouldn't let me crash out their office.' he said. Drew Pavlou (pictured) attempted to 'squat' inside the Victorian Socialists headquarters Jordan van den Lamb (pictured) also known online as 'purplepingers' went viral after publishing a DIY guide on how to detect whether a house is fit for squatting They openly proclaim their support for squatting so I hoped they would let me sleep at their place for a few nights. Absolutely shattered by their harsh, uncomradely behaviour.' The Victorian Socialists fired back on Wednesday with a scathing statement, accusing Pavlou of exploiting the issue of homelessness for clicks. 'Yesterday we were paid a visit by right-wing social media 'influencer' Drew Pavlou who was cosplaying homelessness in order to generate engagement for his social media pages,' the party said. 'He was asked to leave by one of our young volunteers (no-one threatened to call the police on him as he claimed in his posts about the stunt) and he did so as soon as his cameraman was no longer able to film him, about one minute in total.' They also used the opportunity to distance themselves from the stunt, reminding supporters they take the issue seriously. 'As a party, we take the issue of homelessness very seriously, and have developed a policy plan that would, if implemented, mean people in actual housing emergencies have a chance of finding secure shelter.' Victorian Socialists also said they didn't have a party policy on squatting, but did 'oppose perfectly good housing being left empty long-term without a good reason' 'One of our policies is to seize those empty for 12 months or more for use as public housing,' they wrote. Purplepingers in one of his instructional videos (left) and Drew Pavlou (right) who previously rose to prominence after a protest against the Chinese Government saw him suspended from the University of Queensland Pictured is a previous protest by Purplepingers at a series of residential properties that had been vacant for decades Pavlou hit back on social media, saying he was not politically right wing. 'I am not a right wing social media influencer, I am a social democrat philosopher and intellectual. Read some theory and get back to me you infantile leftists,' he wrote. Victorian Socialists supporters criticised Pavlou for his acts. 'This is behaviour I would expect from a toddler' someone wrote on social media. 'He inadvertently made a statement about what it's like to sleep rough,' said another. Pavlou's followers meanwhile backed his protest. 'Oh so suddenly private property is a thing?? Good on you Drew,' said one follower. 'This is awesome. You forgot their main philosophy which is they only care about things if it doesn't affect them personally. They are only generous with other people's money and property, not their own.' wrote another. Pavlou became known in 2019, after a protest against the Chinese Communist Party saw him suspended from the University of Queensland. He has since remained an outspoken critic of the Chinese and Russian Governments, and like Van Den Lamb, unsuccessfully ran for the Australian Senate in 2022. A teenager accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old schoolgirl has escaped prosecution because he is now over 18 and would have to be tried as an adult. The boy was 16 when he allegedly attacked the girl but the police investigation took so long that he was 19 by the time a file was sent to prosecutors. Despite the boy admitting the sexual contact took place, it was decided that it was not in the public interest to prosecute him. The victim, from Surrey and named only as Rachel, said: I wish I had never bothered to report what happened to me. The message here is that if you are a few years from turning 18, you can rape and assault whoever you like without being punished for it.' The Mail has identified another shocking case which suggests teenage sex offenders are escaping justice because investigations take years and prosecutors drop cases when the suspects can no longer be tried as youths. In the second case, the police have failed to even interview a teenage rape suspect two years after the incident was reported during which time he has turned 18. Rachel reported the attack, which took place when she was 14, the day after it happened, but it was almost three years before a file was sent to prosecutors - during which time her alleged attacker had turned 19 and it was decided it was not in the public interest to try him as an adult The proportion of rape cases being dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service has risen from nine per cent in 2022 to 13 per cent in 2024/25, official statistics show. The average wait for a bailed rape trial to conclude is five and a half years after the offence took place, including an average 18-month wait from a charge date to the end of the trial. This is due to investigative delays, a shortage in specialist barristers and a record court backlog of more than 77,000 cases. In Rachels case, she was allegedly sexually assaulted in September 2021 by a college student who contacted her on Snapchat and arranged to meet near her home. The 16-year-old then groped her, told her to get on all fours before trying to have sex with her and then made her perform a sex act on him which she said she did because she was frightened. She reported the boy to the police the following day, gave a statement and the suspect was arrested. When he was interviewed, he accepted the sexual activity had taken place but insisted it was consensual. Police also found a number of intimate photos of young girls on the boys phone, Rachel said. Surrey Police did not send a file of evidence to the CPS until January 2024 by which time the suspect had turned 19. The day before Rachels 18th birthday she was told her interview had been 'credible and compelling' and there was enough evidence to charge the suspect with sexual offences. Despite this, a district prosecutor said it was not in the public interest to do so because he would now have to be tried as an adult. In a letter containing the news, the prosecutor wrote: The importance of this is that, if he were to be charged with the offences, he is no longer deemed a youth and therefore has lost the right to have his case heard in a Youth Court which means he no longer has the right to have the proceedings held in private, he has lost the right to anonymity and the Youth Court special measures and possible sentences, if convicted, that would have been available to him if he were charged as a youth. Although this has been a difficult decision to make, I have concluded that it would not be in the public interest to prosecute the suspect for the sexual activity which took place between you. Rachel said: What happened to me that day was the single most horrific thing in my life, and this experience has just made it so much worse. I just cannot understand it. The message to young girls who are sexually assaulted by teenagers is dont bother reporting what happened to you it will take so long for something to happen that they will turn 18 and the authorities wont care. It feels like his interests are being prioritised over mine. It is not my fault that so much time has passed. And I wont be the only case. If this has happened here then it must be happening all over the country it's almost like theres a loophole in the law. Human rights lawyer Harriet Wistrich, who founded the Centre for Womens Justice, said Rachel had been failed by the state because of its own delays. She has potentially been denied justice so may have a case under the Human Rights Act, she added. This is not the only case involving an allegation of rape committed by a suspect who has then become an adult while the investigation is dragging on, something which can obviously change things. A colleague is working on a case currently where the investigating police force hasnt even interviewed the suspect two years on. He has now turned 18, and it seems that part of the reason they havent bothered is they feel that his behaviour was just a young man being a young man and perhaps they didn't want to ruin his career. But this is another victim potentially being denied justice. Human rights lawyer Harriet Wistrich, who founded the Centre for Womens Justice, said Rachel had been failed by the state because of its own delays' A CPS spokesman said: We take allegations of sexual offences extremely seriously regardless of the age of the people involved. Prosecutors examined the evidence in this case carefully and on review, concluded that there was no realistic prospect of conviction for any rape charge. When considering other potential sexual offences, it was not in the public interest to pursue prosecution. We have written to and offered to meet with the complainant and her family to explain our decision-making. A Surrey Police spokesman said: Officers put in significant amounts of work into securing evidence in rape and sexual assault cases which are often complex and can involve multiple agencies. Whilst it is not uncommon for suspects under 18 to reach adulthood during an investigation, we understand each case must be individually assessed. In [Rachels] case, charges were secured for underage sexual activity and an appeal was made against the decision not to charge for rape or attempted rape. Surrey Police continue to work with the family and liaise with CPS about this case. Children could be limited to two hours per day on social media sites in a bid to break 'unhealthy' doomscrolling habits. Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, said the Government was 'looking very carefully' at how to stop youngsters spending hours viewing online content. The Cabinet minister warned that children were displaying 'compulsive behaviour' on some apps and 'need some help just to take control of their online lives'. According to Sky News, a two-hour cap per platform is being seriously considered following ministers' meetings with current and former employees of tech companies. A night-time or school-time curfew has also been discussed. The measures would block children from accessing apps such as TikTok or Snapchat once they hit a limit. Mr Kyle told the TV news channel: 'I'll be making an announcement on these things in the near future. 'But I am looking very carefully about the overall time kids spend on these apps. 'I think some parents feel a bit disempowered about how to actually make their kids healthier online.' Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, said the Government was 'looking very carefully' at how to stop youngsters spending hours viewing online content. A two-hour cap per platform is being seriously considered following ministers' meetings with current and former employees of tech companies The Technology Secretary added: 'I think some kids feel that sometimes there is so much compulsive behaviour with interaction with the apps. 'They need some help just to take control of their online lives and those are things I'm looking at really carefully. 'We talk a lot about a healthy childhood offline. We need to do the same online. I think sleep is very important, to be able to focus on studying is very important.' Mr Kyle said his aim was to stop children spending hours viewing content which 'isn't criminal, but it's unhealthy, the overuse of some of these apps'. He added that he wanted to 'tip the balance' in favour of parents 'not always being the ones who are just ripping phones out of the kids' hands'. 'I think we can incentivise the companies and we can set a slightly different threshold,' he continued. A survey of 1,000 children from Darlington, County Durham, mostly aged 14 and 15, found that 40 per cent of them spent at least six hours a day online. One in five spent as long as eight hours scrolling. Most of the under-16s (55 per cent) had seen inappropriate sexual or violent content - often unprompted. And three-quarters of the under-16s had been contacted online by strangers. One Labour MP who has been pushing the Government to better protect under-16s from addictive social media content welcomed Mr Kyle's comments. But they warned there was a need to ensure time-limits or curfews were being properly enforced, and they would need to be combined with robust age verification. Others questioned how effective a two-hour cap per platform would actually be in preventing children from 'doomscrolling' online. Laura Trott, the Conservative shadow education secretary, criticised 'more delay tactics' from the Government. 'This wont do enough to protect children from social media and smartphones,' she said. 'Its simple: get phones out of the classroom and children off social media. 'There are amendments going through Parliament now which make this happen. Labour are choosing not to act.' Miriam Cates, a former Tory MP and ex-teacher who is now a senior fellow at the Centre for Social Justice think tank, said it was 'about as useful as a chocolate teapot'. She told MailOnline: 'I'm pleased Peter Kyle is beginning to take seriously the enormous damage being done to children by addictive social media apps. 'But a two-hour limit per day per app is about as useful as a chocolate teapot. 'There are dozens of social media platforms so once their time has expired, children can just switch to a new one. 'The Government needs to stand up to Big Tech - an industry that is just as exploitative as Big Tobacco - and force them to keep children off their platforms altogether.' Iona Silverman, IP and media partner at law firm Freeths, said: 'Although Ofcom has made a start in regulating the highest risk platforms, it needs to move to tackle every day harms, such as excessive exposure to social media. 'The suggestion of a two-hour limit is interesting: some might argue that two hours on social media is too long in itself. 'The real question that springs to mind is, how will this be enforced? Given most young people are using a number of different social media platforms, possibly across a number of different devices, it will be incredibly hard to police any kind of cap. 'In addition to legislative change and increased enforcement from regulators, we need to see a cultural shift. 'Parents need to have more open conversations with children and young people about social media, and should also try to model the use they want their children to see.' Under the Online Safety Act, sites containing potentially harmful content, like porn sites, will have to perform age checks on users. Any company that fails to comply with the checks by this Friday could be fined or could be made unavailable in the UK through a court order. A surgeon has appeared in court after being accused of lying about losing his legs to sepsis for a 466,000 insurance claim. Neil Hopper, 49, is also accused of encouraging 'Eunuch Maker' Marius Gustavson to amputate body parts. He did not enter any pleas during a 40-minute hearing at Bodmin magistrates' court today and spoke only to confirm his name, age, and address. Mr Hopper, who won a Brave Briton award, allegedly told Aviva Group between June 3, 2019 and July 20, 2019 the injuries to his legs were not self-inflicted in order to make a 235,622 claim. He is also accused of making the same insurance claim between the same dates to Old Mutual for 231,031. Mr Hopper, a vascular surgeon from Truro, was remanded in custody and is next due to appear at Truro Crown Court on August 26. He previously appeared on This Morning in 2020 where he claimed he developed sepsis after becoming unwell during a family camping trip in 2019. He told the BBC in 2023: 'My life is more interesting because of what's happened to me.' Neil Hopper, 49, is due before Cornwall Magistrates' Court in Bodmin on Wednesday accused of two counts of fraud and a charge of encouraging or assisting grievous bodily harm Hopper appeared on This Morning in 2020 where he claimed he developed sepsis after becoming unwell during a family camping trip in 2019 Hopper is pictured here learning how to walk again after he had both of his legs amputated Hopper is also alleged to have bought videos from The EunuchMaker website between August 21, 2018 and December 4, 2020 showing the removal of limbs, which 'encouraged Marius Gustavson to remove body parts of third parties'. Gustavson, from Norway, had his own penis cut off, a nipple removed and his leg frozen so it had to be amputated. Hopper had been employed by the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust from 2013 until he was arrested in March 2023. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokeswoman said: 'The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, where Mr Hopper has been employed, has worked closely with Devon and Cornwall Police throughout the investigation.' A hospital trust spokesman added: 'The charges do not relate to Mr Hopper's professional conduct and there has been no evidence to suggest any risk to patients. Hopper is accused of dishonestly making a false representation to insurers claiming that his leg injuries were the 'result of sepsis and were not self-inflicted' Hopper has not worked at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust since March 2023 Mr Hopper is also accused of encouraging 'Eunuch Maker' Marius Gustavson (pictured) to amputate body parts 'Mr Hopper worked at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals from 2013 until he was suspended from duty in March 2023, following his initial arrest. 'Former patients with any questions or concerns about their treatment can contact the Royal Cornwall Hospitals' patient experience team.' Hopper was in 2020 named one of the bravest people in Britain. He received the Against All Odds title at the Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons 2020, in a virtual ceremony hosted by BBC1 TV Breakfast presenter Rachel Burden. Britain's 'most controversial allotment' has won the right to stay where it is despite outrage from eco-celebs like Springwatch host Chris Packham and Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden. The site on the edge of Bristol has been labelled as the 'world's first no-dig allotment', but it received criticism from locals as well as the eco-conscious celebrities. 'No dig' means growers plant into topsoil which has been placed on top of the ground so no soil is dug up, broken or turned. It has been in a lengthy battle for Bath-based Roots Allotment two years after setting up on a field next to the A369 in Abbots Leigh in April 2023. Despite more than 3,400 people signing a petition against the site, which borders two Sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI), it was awarded retrospective planning permission for three parts of the 600-plot allotment field. Some claimed there had been a lack of consultation on the ecology of the land and concerns for local wildlife. Speaking when they first moved in, Dragons' Den's Meaden, who lives in Somerset, argued the site is 'very sad' for local wildlife and 'devastating' for the 'precious meadow habitat'. Taking to X on the allotment's opening day on September 18, she wrote: 'Butterfly numbers have crashed in the UK and Roots Allotments have taken 25 acres of precious meadow habitat, and celebrate with a party. The site on the edge of Bristol has been labelled as the 'world's first no-dig allotment', but it received criticism from locals as well as the eco-conscious celebrities It has been in a lengthy battle for Bath-based Roots Allotment two years after setting up on a field next to the A369 in Abbots Leigh in April 2023 Speaking when they first moved in, Dragons' Den's Meaden, who lives in Somerset, argued the site is 'very sad' for local wildlife and 'devastating' for the 'precious meadow habitat' 'They could go (and) do much good in the right area but we can't keep taking from a nature who can't defend herself. Very sad.' Last May, Meadon backed the concept of Roots Allotment but argued it was using the wrong location. She wrote: 'Totally agree on farmed land and Farmers are absolutely going to be at the forefront of restoring Nature but that does not apply to already rich meadowland being bulldozed with alien soils being dumped on it. 'I love the concept of roots allotments but they need to choose their sites wisely...to actually add and regenerate.' Naturalist and wildlife presenter Chris Packham TV wildlife also criticised the location and safety of the site, and took issue with the allotment company redeveloping 'species rich grassland with breeding skylarks'. Taking to Facebook in May last year, Packham wrote: 'Increasing access to green spaces is a must- and allotments are a great way to do that, and more. 'But when you're a venture capital-backed firm developing on species rich grassland, with breeding skylarks... you're in the wrong Roots Allotments. 'Avon and Somerset Police have ordered work to stop on part of the site due to breeding red-listed skylarks- great. But the whole project needs scrapping.' Naturalist and wildlife presenter Chris Packham TV wildlife also criticised the location and safety of the site, and took issue with the allotment company redeveloping 'species rich grassland with breeding skylarks' One of the founders, Christian Samuel, said the group had 'flipped the script' - saying their allotments on the site were allegedly the only place where skylarks were feeding He also added that their 'no dig' method had restored the soil and suppressed carbon into the ground More than 3,400 people signed a petition against the site, which borders two Sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) However, North Somerset Council's planning committee voted last week to finally award retrospective planning permission. The Roots Allotments team were given permission for two shipping containers in the field to be used as a tool shed and site office, CCTV cameras, an access track, gravel hardstanding and a sign on the main A369 road. Roots Allotment group says they are answering a 'much needed' allotment crisis and are providing an opportunity for people to sustainably grow their own food. One of the founders, Christian Samuel, said the group had 'flipped the script' - saying their allotments on the site were allegedly the only place where skylarks were feeding. He also added that their 'no dig' method had restored the soil and suppressed carbon into the ground. 'We believe this council has far more pressing issues to resolve than preventing people from growing vegetables in a sustainable manner,' Mr Samuel added. 'At the end of the day everyone, it is just vegetables.' But parish councillor Jenny Stoodley, who lives in Leigh Woods, disagreed. North Somerset Council's planning committee voted last week to finally award retrospective planning permission The Roots Allotments team were given permission for two shipping containers in the field to be used as a tool shed and site office, CCTV cameras, an access track, gravel hardstanding and a sign on the main A369 road Councillors on the planning committee eventually voted seven to three to approve the plans, and a separate planning application covering the sign for the site was approved Roots Allotment group says they are answering a 'much needed' allotment crisis and are providing an opportunity for people to sustainably grow their own food She said: 'The introduction of urban man-made structures such as cars, shipping containers and CCTV in this sensitive green belt location is exactly the kind of encroachment that greenbelt policy is intended to protect against.' Councillors on the planning committee eventually voted seven to three to approve the plans, and a separate planning application covering the sign for the site was approved. Some councillors were left 'disappointed' by the outcome - with Abbots Leigh Parish Council chair Simon Talbot-Ponsonby saying: 'Obviously we are disappointed because it's basically ruined that part of the green belt.' But Christian said the Roots Allotment team, as well as their members, were grateful for the decision. He added: 'There are so many people that need this space - and I'm glad that planning bills are going to come to an end.' A Foreign Office chief who stayed on holiday during the shambolic evacuation of Afghanistan received a 260,000 payoff. Top diplomat Philip Barton was handed the bumper 'golden goodbye' when he 'retired' from his 205,000 a year job in January. Sir Philip was heavily criticised over the chaos as the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. During a bruising session with the Foreign Affairs Committee that year, the mandarin admitted that if he 'had my time again' he would not have remained in the Dordogne for 11 days after the fall of Kabul. Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab both returned from breaks when that happened, but Sir Philip was not back until the day civilian evacuations ended. He insisted cover arrangements were in place and he had 'stayed in touch with the department all the way through the period'. Top diplomat Philip Barton was handed the bumper 'golden goodbye' when he 'retired' from his 205,000 a year job in January British, Turkish and US military help a child during the evacuation of Kabul in 2021 British and US personnel in action during the evacuation of Kabul The latest Foreign Office accounts revealed the 'voluntary exit compensation payment' for Sir Philip A report published in 2022 said the committee had 'lost confidence in the Permanent Under-Secretary, who should consider his position'. The cross-party MPs said: 'The fact that the departments top civil servant did not return until the civilian evacuation was over, while staff across the department struggled to implement a poorly-planned evacuation process under intense pressure, is difficult to understand and impossible to excuse.' However, Sir Philip - who had been in the post since 2020 - remained until after Labour took power, when he was replaced by Theresa May's former Brexit envoy Oliver Robbins. Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed thanks to Sir Philip 'for his many years of dedicated public service, in particular his leadership as (Permanent Under-Secretary) and his support through the recent political transition'. In the latest departmental accounts, published yesterday, the non-executive directors referred to Sir Philip's 'retirement from the FCDO earlier this year'. The document also said: 'Sir Philip Barton received a voluntary exit compensation payment of 262,185 under the terms of the Civil Service Compensation Scheme (CSCS)...' The Foreign Office has been contacted for comment. John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: 'Taxpayers will be furious at this reward for failure in the Foreign Office. 'Golden goodbyes of this size always infuriate working Brits, but particularly when the person receiving it has been responsible for such a disaster. 'A cap of 95,000 should be placed on all exit payments in the future.' The accounts also disclosed that Sir Oliver is being paid 235-240,000 - around 30,000 more than Sir Philip. After leaving the civil service in 2019, Sir Oliver worked for Goldman Sachs and a strategic advisory firm. Is a new book by Aatish Taseer, ex-boyfriend of Princess Michael of Kents daughter Gabriella, set to revive spurious claims that Michael was the royal racist unnamed by Meghan in her infamous Oprah interview? Harry said it wasnt the Queen or Prince Philip. Omid Scobie named, without evidence, the King and Kate. Meghan claims she had been angered at her first meeting with the extended royals at an annual pre-Christmas family lunch at Buckingham Palace in 2017 over a discussion on the skin tone of a future Sussex baby. A year later Aatish revealed that Princess Michael had two black sheep named Venus and Serena. The royal who made the comment which made Meg bristle has never been identified. Marking the 12th birthday of Prince George yesterday, perky name-dropper Gyles Brandreth enthuses: July 22 is always an important date on my calendar, I send out a lot of birthday cards. The Prime Minister of Jamaica, its his birthday. My friend Bonnie Langford, I always send her a card. The actor Terence Stamp, I always send him a card. Thank goodness Gyles can afford all those stamps. Colonel-in-Chief of the camp fraternity Julian Clary sabotaged a take of Blankety Blank when asked by host Bradley Walsh to complete the statement: If you want to convince someone that youre highly intelligent, tell them youre a world authority on *blank*. I dont know why, but I put lesbians, explained Julian, pictured. They had to stop the recording to tell me to tone it down. Surely harmless fun compared with his 1993 British Comedy Awards claim he had been intimate with Norman Lamont. The Tory Chancellor was in the audience with his wife. Donald Trumps porky pie about never drawing pictures has been ridiculed as one of his doodles fetched $15,000 at Sothebys. Someone who might be in the market for a Trump original is Keir Starmer, due to meet him in Scotland this weekend. One of Trumps more playful sketches is of a Money Tree, with dollar bills drifting from its branches, which sold for $8,500 in 2020. Starmer desperately needs one of those! Ex-Tory MP Michael Fabricant seems to have lost faith in his party, saying: Whether James Cleverly returns to the Conservative front bench is, for the foreseeable future, irrelevant. Deck chairs on the Titanic. Bewigged Michael and party leader Kemi are feuding. After he announced he wasnt in love with Kemis leadership, she cheekily said of Michael: Im not surprised hes not in love with me hes a gay man. Michael fumed: Im not a gay man. Ive been making it very plain that Im bisexual! Spare a thought for horror rock star Alice Cooper. I just cant get a good supply of snakes any more, he wails. My guy in London always found me excellent snakes, but now I just cant get the permits. Is Brexit to blame? Kemi Badenoch today tried to quell signs of a rift with James Cleverly over the prospect of leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The Tory leader dramatically brought the former Home Secretary back into the fold yesterday as part of a shadow cabinet reshuffle. Sir James will be taking on Angela Rayner in the housing brief as the Conservatives struggle to revive their fortunes. However, touring broadcast studios this morning he did not give a full-hearted endorsement of Mrs Badenoch's remark that she is 'increasingly of the view that we will need to leave' the ECHR. Asked on BBC Radio 4's Today programme if he agreed with the comment, Sir James said: 'Well, she has commissioned a review by the shadow attorney general and it is right that we look at this. Kemi Badenoch and James Cleverly visited a housing development in Middlesex today The Tory leader dramatically brought the former Home Secretary back into the fold yesterday as part of a shadow cabinet reshuffle 'It was incredibly frustrating when I was trying to deport people and we had judges making what I regarded as completely perverse decisions, leaning on the European court and so it is absolutely right that we look at that. 'I am going to wait for the outcome of that review.' Asked again if he agreed with Mrs Badenoch, Sir James said: 'I completely understand her position on that. She has commissioned a review.' Challenged that he did not appear to be in step with the leader, he replied: 'No, that is what you are saying. What I am saying is she has commissioned a review and I am going to wait to see what that review (concludes). Sir James added: 'I have said what I believe. What I have said is that leaving the European Convention on Human Rights will not necessarily be a silver bullet and we need to look at the wider implications, we need to look at how we are going to do that. 'Kemi has commissioned a review to do just that. I think that is the right thing to do. 'If the review sets out how we can make that work then of course, and that becomes party policy, I will completely understand that and I will abide by that. Mrs Badenoch has dismissed suggestions that the pair do not agree on the ECHR Pressed by broadcasters later whether Sir James was signed up to her position on the ECHR, Mrs Badenoch said: 'James and I have always had the same position on the ECHR, and that is that if we need to leave, then we should leave, but it's not a silver bullet. 'That is why we have a commission on this very issue, which will be reporting at party conference. 'So I wouldn't bring someone into the shadow cabinet if they didn't agree with me.' A British mother has been charged with trafficking drugs into Germany after being caught allegedly smuggling cannabis from Thailand. Cameron Bradford, 21, from Knebworth in Hertfordshire, was arrested at Munich Airport on April 22 when she attempted to collect her luggage. Authorities had become suspicious after she allegedly changed her flight at the last minute, having originally been due to fly to London Heathrow via Singapore. Her family had filed a missing person report after raising concerns when she did not return home as expected, but then learned the next day she was in Germany. Miss Bradford was arrested and held in custody - and has now been charged with attempted transit of cannabis and abetting the international trafficking of cannabis. The mother, who has a young son, is set to make an appearance at a hearing in Munich District Court on August 6 as authorities continue to investigate. A Foreign Office spokesman said today: 'We are supporting a British woman who is detained in Germany and are in contact with her family and the local authorities.' Miss Bradford's arrest is one of a series of cases involving suspected young British female drug mules stopped by police at airports in countries around the world. Cameron Bradford, 21, of Knebworth, Hertfordshire, was arrested at Munich Airport on April 22 Your browser does not support iframes. Miss Bradford faces charges including abetting the international trafficking of cannabis Following her arrest, Munich chief prosecutor Anne Leiding said: 'We can confirm that we are conducting proceedings in this matter. The defendant is still in custody.' Germany legalised cannabis for recreational use by adults in February 2024, but this did not extend to tourists - and the unauthorised import of the drug is illegal. Thailand decriminalised cannabis in 2022, but last month brought in new rules which restrict the sale of the drug to those with a doctor's prescription. A UK Border Force and Thai customs agreement called Operation Chaophraya which aims to reduce attempted cannabis smuggling was launched in July last year. The Home Office said in April that the scheme was working after cannabis arrivals by post from Thailand dropped by 90 per cent in the first three months of 2025. Parcels from Thailand must now be checked before they are shipped and over 50 British nationals have been arrested in Thailand for attempted cannabis smuggling since the operation began. MailOnline contacted the Munich Public Prosecutor's Office and the UK's Foreign Office for comment today. Police became suspicious when Miss Bradford allegedly changed her flight at the last minute Security at Munich Airport in Germany (file photograph), where Miss Bradford was stopped Separately, MailOnline revealed today that a British mother was arrested in Mauritius accused of trying to smuggle cannabis inside her six-year-old son's suitcase. Natashia Artug, 35, of Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, was detained alongside seven other people accused of carrying more than 161kg of the drug - worth 1.6million - in their luggage. The boy's luggage alone is said to have had 24 packages of drugs wrapped in clear cellophane inside weighing 14kg. Campaign group Justice Abroad claimed Ms Artug is 'vulnerable' and was coerced into travelling to Mauritius by people involved in the drug trade who threatened her and her family, adding that she did not know the bags contained cannabis. Miss Artug's partner Florian Lisman, a 38-year-old Romanian, was also arrested and said to be carrying 32 drug packages, an iPhone and 260. The other Britons detained were Patrick Lee Wilsdon, 22, Lily Watson, 20, Shannon Ellen Josie Holness 29, Laura Amy Kappen 28, and Shona Campbell, 32, who each had between 30 and 32 packages, according to local newspaper Le Mauricien. They were all on the same British Airways flight from London Gatwick to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam airport last month. The suspects have all been charged with drug trafficking and remain in custody. British mother Natashia Artug, 35, was detained in Mauritius alongside seven other people accused of carrying more than 161 kilograms of the drug - worth 1.6 million - in their luggage Bella Culley, 18, from Billingham in County Durham, was arrested in Georgia in May after allegedly carrying 12kg of cannabis and 2kg of hashish into the country from Thailand Charlotte Lee May, 21, South London, was locked up in a Sri Lankan jail after police allegedly discovered 46kg of 'Kush' - a synthetic strain of cannabis - in her suitcase from Thailand A series of other cases in recent months have seen Brits arrested abroad for alleged drug smuggling. One of the most high profile involves 18-year-old Bella Culley, from Billingham in County Durham, who was arrested in Georgia in May after allegedly carrying 12kg of cannabis and 2kg of hashish into the country from Thailand, where she had been on holiday. Earlier this month her trial was postponed immediately after it began due to issues concerning evidence. She could face up to 20 years in jail if convicted, and her next hearing is scheduled for tomorrow. Another case in May saw 21-year-old Charlotte Lee May, from Coulsdon in South London locked up in a Sri Lankan prison after police allegedly discovered 46kg of 'Kush' - a synthetic strain of cannabis - in her suitcase when she arrived on a flight from Thailand. The former cabin crew member for Tui was placed in handcuffs after 1.15million worth of cannabis was allegedly found in her luggage and could face up to 25 years in prison if found guilty. OnlyFans model Clara Wilson, 36, from Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire, allegedly tried to smuggle around 200,000 of Thai cannabis into Spain - with more than 34kg of cannabis found in her suitcases at Barcelona's El Prat Airport. OnlyFans model Clara Wilson, 36, from Nottinghamshire, allegedly tried to smuggle around 200,000 of Thai cannabis into Spain - with more than 34kg of cannabis found in her suitcases British beautician Kimberly Hall, 29, was accused of attempting to smuggle $6.2million of cocaine from Chicago O' Hare Airport to the UK, having come off a flight from Cancun British beautician Kimberly Hall, 29, from Middlesbrough, is in custody in the US after being accused of attempting to smuggle $6.2million of cocaine from Chicago O' Hare Airport to the UK, having come off a flight from Cancun in Mexico. Robert Brown, 41, from Newcastle, was arrested in Cambodia last month after allegedly attempting to smuggle nearly 20kg of marijuana into the UK - just hours after he was reported missing by his girlfriend. Police found 22 packages of cannabis weighing nearly 20kg hidden inside his luggage at Phnom Penh Airport. The drugs, which police believe originated in Thailand, are thought to have a street value of around 200,000. Brown has been charged with the use, possession, trafficking and transport of drugs and could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted. And 79-year-old William 'Billy Boy' Eastment, a bowls-loving pensioner from Somerset, faces dying in prison after he was allegedly intercepted at Santiago Airport in Chile with 200,000 worth of meth. Italy's Dolomites have been compared to Disneyland as the beauty spot became overloaded by swarms of selfie-snapping tourists and so-called influencers this week. Images and videos shared on social media shared by furious locals showed crowds of holidaymakers clogging up a cable car station in the Seceda area of the Alpine mountain range, which has become increasingly popular thanks to social media. One particular video shows a lengthy queue of visitors at the station over-spilling onto a nearby cafe, while some tourists are seen blocking a staircase as they wait in line. Another clip showed how a hiking trail came to a standstill as it became overwhelmed by tourists trying to reach the cable car. The video, which was shared on an Instagram page, was captioned: 'Something incredible even just to be told. 'Hours in line waiting for your turn to go up the Seceda to admire the meadows, ridges, the most beautiful mountains of the Alto Adige, being careful not to step on each other's feet, not to clash, to take the selfie as 'freely' possible in the presence of other tourists.' Such is the surge in visitors that the operator of the cable car that takes hikers up to the summit of the Seceda mountain has put in a request to triple the capacity of the chairlift, Italian news outlet Corriere della Sera reports. But recent scenes of overcrowding at the UNESCO World Heritage Site has sparked anger among locals and environmentalists who say large crowds could put wildlife at risk. Images and videos shared on social media shared by furious locals showed crowds of holidaymakers clogging up a cable car station in the Seceda area of the Dolomites One particular video shows a lengthy queue of visitors at the station over-spilling onto a nearby cafe Viral videos on social media platform TikTok have pointed out the realities of visiting the Dolomites region This is not the first time that images of overcrowding at the tourist hotspot have caused controversy online. Viral videos on social media platform TikTok have pointed out the realities of visiting the Dolomites region, depicting how visits to its beautiful landscapes are usually interrupted by large crowds of tourists and so-called influencers. One video shared earlier this month taken by a hiker at the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint showed a shot of the stunning Italian peaks with the words 'Expectation' written over clip. But the video then pans out to show a massive line of tourists stuck on a hiking trail as the words 'Reality' appear on the screen. The account that shared the video to the social platform wrote in the caption: 'Waited 1.5 hours for a rushed shot so we didn't hold up the line'. Another video taken at the same viewpoint showed a similar scene, with tourists seen waiting in line to take pictures of the backdrop. A separate clip shows the extent of the popularity of the Dolomites as dozens of tourists stand on the bank of a lake, tripods and cameras in hand, as they scramble to take snaps of the breathtaking scenery. The recent social media outcry over mass tourism in the Dolomites comes after a local farmer proposed an initiative to charge visitors a fee of five euros to enter the trails of the Puez Odle Nature Park. A TikTok video showed a huge queue of tourists lining up at a viewpoint to take snaps of the breathtaking landscapes A separate clip shows dozens of tourists standing on the bank of a lake, tripods and cameras in hand, as they scramble to take snaps of the breathtaking scenery Recent scenes of overcrowding at the UNESCO World Heritage Site has sparked anger among locals and environmentalists Recent condemnation of overtourism at the Italian mountain range comes after anti-tourist protesters targeted ski resorts over the winter While the measure has not been introduced, several locals have backed the proposal as they see it as a way stop visitors from littering and disrupting the environment. Commenting on the proposal, president of the Alto Adige Alpine Club Carlo Alberto Zanella said in a social media post: 'One of the most photographed trails in the Dolomites, invaded by influencers, YouTubers, and Instagrammers. 'A tacky tourism that has led to people lying down with towels on the grass that never grows back and ruining nature for a selfie sponsored by influencers who give random advice without knowing the true beauty of our mountains', he added. Recent condemnation of overtourism at the Italian mountain range comes after anti-tourist protesters targeted ski resorts over the winter, with Italian locals branded the words 'too much' in bright red letters atop a snowy mountain. The red slogan, which was deliberately placed under a ski lift, appeared at Alpe Di Siusi ski resort in the Dolomites back in February. The graffiti was a move made by angry locals who had been growing increasingly impatient over the masses of tourists hitting the slopes during the peak winter season. Brigitte Foppa, councillor of the European Greens party, said tourism in the area was 'a continuous growth' that has been 'underestimated for years'. 'They told us that we were troublemakers...Now we are paying the price, the wound in society has opened', she warned. The impacts of mass-tourism have been largely documented in recent years File photo: Santa Magdalena village, idyllic Dolomites landscape in South Tyrol, Italian Alps But it was not the firms time residents protested against the growing number of visitors in the area. Last summer, locals painted a preferential lane with the word 'priority' in the asphalt, after commuters had raised concerns that the masses of tourists had clogged up access to cable cars, causing them delays. The impacts of mass-tourism have been largely documented in recent years. Last summer, an anti-tourist movement ravaged through Europe, with angry locals protesting the economic and social disruptions caused by foreign visitors. Spain saw a particularly large number of demonstrations across the mainland as well as its Canary and Balearic islands. Actions included marches on the street with protesters chanting 'tourists go home', as well as demonstrations on beaches which saw locals boo and jeer at sun-soaked tourists. Anti-tourist protests have continued into this summer. Tensions were high outside an Idaho courthouse as dozens of people lined up 13 hours before Bryan Kohberger is to be sentenced for the murders of four students. An argument broke out after people were accused of cutting in line as they tried to secure a seat for the 9am hearing in Boise. Kohberger, 30, is expected to be sentenced to four life sentences without parole after he pleaded guilty to the 2022 murders of Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Kaylee Goncalves. Spectators and reporters began lining up outside the Ada County Courthouse at around 10pm Tuesday. Officials informed those present that they were not allowed to form a line until 4am, so spectators moved their line across the street from the courthouse. By 3am, at least 50 people were already lined up, some with camping chairs, as they waited to be let inside. There seemed to be a mix of media and crime sleuths in the line. Wednesday's sentencing hearing will conclude the case that grasped the nation's attention for years. But, many, including president Donald Trump, have said the plea deal should require Kohberger to explain why he committed the murders. Bryan Kohberger, 30, is expected to be sentenced to four life sentences without parole after he pleaded guilty to the 2022 murders of four students People began lining up outside the the Ada County Courthouse at around 10pm Tuesday as they hoped to get a seat for the 9am sentencing in Boise An argument broke out in the line outside the Idaho courthouse as people were accused of cutting in line ahead of the sentencing hearing The sentencing will give the families of the victims the opportunity to describe the anguish they've felt since their loved ones were killed in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022. Kohberger was a graduate student of Washington State University when he broke into a nearby rental home through a kitchen sliding door and killed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. Police initially had no suspects, and the killings terrified the normally quiet community in the small, western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. But investigators had a few critical clues. A knife sheath left near Mogen's body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect, and accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings. He initially stood silent when asked to enter a plea, so a judge entered a 'not guilty' plea on his behalf. Both the investigation and the court case drew widespread attention. Discussion groups proliferated online, with members eagerly sharing their theories and questions about the case. There seemed to be a mix of media and crime sleuths in the line outside the courthouse Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders of 21-year-old Kaylee Goncalves, her 21-year-old best friend Madison Mogen and 20-year-old couple Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin Many, including president Donald Trump , have said the plea deal should require Kohberger to explain why he committed the murders The lines persisted on Wednesday morning ahead of the sentencing at 9am Some self-styled armchair detectives pointed fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Misinformation spread, piling additional distress on the already-traumatized community. As the criminal case unfolded, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson announced that he would seek the death penalty if Kohberger was convicted. The court-defense team, led by attorney Anne Taylor, challenged the validity of the DNA evidence, unsuccessfully pushed to get theories about possible 'alternate perpetrators' admitted in court, and repeatedly asked the judge to take the death penalty off of the table. But those efforts largely failed, and the evidence against Kohberger was strong. With an August trial looming, Kohberger reached a plea deal. Prosecutors agreed to drop their efforts to get a death sentence in exchange for Kohberger's guilty plea to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. Both sides agreed to a proposed sentence of four consecutive life sentences without parole, plus an additional 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger also waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. On The Case: The Idaho Murders is out now wherever you get your podcasts - be sure to subscribe or follow to never miss an episode. Thousands of North Queensland jobs could be lost as Swiss mining giant Glencore considers shutting down its operations in Mount Isa and Phosphate Hill. Business advocacy group Townsville Enterprise said the ripple effects could put up to 17,000 jobs at risk across the Northern Queensland economy. Mount Isa, a city with a population of about 20,000 in the state's Gulf Country region, is largely dependent on mining, in particular Glencore's copper and silver-lead zinc facilities. A memo circulated to staff on Wednesday painted a bleak outlook. 'To date Glencore has been absorbing losses hopeful that a viable solution could be found,' the memo from the interim CEO stated. 'However, we are fast reaching the point at which Glencore cannot continue to absorb these losses. We need to know in the coming weeks whether there is a viable solution on the table from governments.' The closure of the two copper operations would directly impact around 550 Glencore workers, with an additional 500 jobs under threat at Dyno Nobel's Phosphate Hill operations. Roland Lobegeiger, field services manager at mechanical firm Isadraulics, said the consequences for Mount Isa would be far-reaching. 'Without it, the town's not going to be here,' he told news.com.au. Glencore's CEO warned that the sites in Phosphate Hill and Mount Isa were at risk of closure 'There are other mines, there would be other work in the area, but would the town recover? It's hard to say,' he said. 'It would be a significant change for a lot of businesses, homes, house prices you name it. It's definitely a bit of a dark cloud over the area. Everyone's still optimistic that they won't shut it down, but no one knows.' Senior Glencore executive Suresh Vadnagra told The Australian the miner was still hopeful of a partnership with government to keep the sites alive, potentially including a public equity stake. 'We have been engaging with government for the past five months,' he said. 'We need to know in the coming weeks whether there is a viable solution on the table from governments or whether we start to planning to transition the copper smelter and refinery into care and maintenance. Time is running out.' Glencore expects the two copper assets could lose billions of dollars over the next seven years, citing rising costs and an increasingly uncompetitive business environment. The warning comes amid broader struggles across Australia's smelting sector. Rio Tinto-owned Tomago, the nation's largest aluminium smelter, is also seeking government support as it battles soaring energy prices and competition from China. 500 jobs at Dyno Nobel's Phosphate Hill (pictured) could be lost if it closes Townsville Enterprise warns up to 17,000 jobs could go in the region due to closures (stock) Industry Minister Tim Ayres signalled the federal government was open to stepping in, telling The Australian Financial Review. 'The truth is, if these facilities didn't exist, governments would be trying to build them,' he said. Meanwhile, Dr John Coyne, Director of National Security Programs at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute warned the closure could risk national security. 'Without access to local smelting, transport and processing costs will increase, threatening their viability and accelerating the decline of Australia's domestic metals processing sector.' Coyne said. He argued that China, the United States and Europe were moving to secure their own supply chains, in the case of a crisis. 'Australia's failure to think strategically puts its long-term prosperity at risk. Copper demand is expected to double over the next decade' he said. A British teenager has been left fighting for her life in a Greek hospital after a suspected ear infection developed into meningitis during a holiday. Millie Bayles, 19, from Garth near Llangollen in North Wales, is currently in intensive care in Athens after falling seriously ill on the island of Rhodes. Her family say she initially began experiencing symptoms of an ear infection, but her condition quickly deteriorated and she was later diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. Millie, who was on holiday with her friends, was transferred more than 300 miles from the holiday island to a specialist unit in the capital, where she remains in a semi-conscious state. Her mother, Lauren Murphy, and stepfather, Pete, flew out to be by her side as doctors battled to stabilise her condition. Now, the family are working to bring Millie home to continue her treatment in the UK. Without travel insurance in place, they were quoted tens of thousands of pounds for a private medical flight and hospital costs. Lauren said: 'We are now at the stage where we can look to bring Millie back to the UK. She is out of immediate danger, but she has a long road to recovery ahead of her. Millie Bayles, who was on holiday with her friends and initially showed symptoms of an ear infection, was eventually diagnosed with bacterial meningitis 'She is still only semi-conscious, and we have yet to see how badly this illness will have affected her brain in the long term. 'Unfortunately, due to being an invincible young person, Millie neglected to take out any holiday insurance, and so we have to fund her medical flight home privately. 'We desperately need help to get our girl back to her home country so she can continue her recovery process.' More than 900 people rallied around the family and helped them to hit their 40,000 target in just days. Millie's stepfather, Pete said: 'I am so overwhelmed by the immediate generosity of all of you lovely people and plenty that are certainly not on my friend list. 'Myself, Lauren and Millie are so grateful for your kind donations. 'Millie has got a long battle ahead, but she certainly has a lot of people rooting for her, and we cant thank you enough for that.' Millies family are now hoping she can be flown home as soon as her doctors deem it safe, where shell begin the next stage of her recovery. A pensioner died from an infection caused when her granddaughters affectionate dog licked a wound on her leg, an inquest has heard. June Baxter, 83, had used a personal alarm to summon help after a fall at her home last month. Her granddaughter, Caitlan Allin, rushed over with her pet, arriving shortly before paramedics turned up and dressed the wound. Mrs Baxter, a retired legal secretary, began to feel unwell the following day and was taken to hospital the following morning, where she died from septic shock a week later. Blood cultures showed she had pasteurella multocida in her system, an organism found in the mouth of dogs. Norfolk coroner Johanna Thompson recorded a conclusion of accidental death after Miss Allin said in a statement that she did not see her dog lick Mrs Baxters injury but accepted it was a possibility as she enjoyed the pets attention. The medical cause of death was given as septic shock due to left leg cellulitis due to a domestic dog lick. A family member, who didnt want to be named, told the Mail the dog had belonged to Mrs Baxter for seven years before she became too frail to look after it and gave it to Miss Allin. June Baxter, 83, pictured with her late husband Ken, died from sepsis after a leg wound was licked by her granddaughter's affectionate dog They said: She was in palliative care for the last year of her life. She had about ten medical issues. She injured her leg. The dog didnt cause the injury or bite her or anything. We dont know if the dog had licked her leg a few days before [the fall] or anything. However, research has shown that pasteurella multocida which is the most common cause of infection in humans following bites or scratches from dogs and cats cannot survive more than 24 hours in the open air at room temperature, suggesting the infection occurred on the day of the fall. The inquest, in Norwich, heard how Mrs Baxter, whose husband Ken died about five years ago after a long illness, fell while using a commode at her small detached bungalow on the outskirts of Attleborough on June 29. She pressed her community call bell, which alerted Miss Allin, who lives in the same market town and was her main carer. Miss Allin arrived with the dog at around 8.30am - just before paramedics entered and used tweezers to reposition the torn skin and dress the wound. Mrs Baxter started to feel sick on June 30 and was taken to Norfolk and Norwich Hospital the following day, where her condition deteriorated and she passed away on July 7. Mrs Baxter had owned the pet previously but gave it to her granddaughter, Caitlan Allin, when she became too unwell to look after it Secondary causes of death were given as kidney, liver and heart conditions. The widows daughter, Clare Wootten, said in a statement to the inquest yesterday that her independent and determined mother had survived sepsis previously. Clinicians at the hospital had explained to her that the infection was from the mouth of a dog and she agreed with the cause of the death. Mrs Baxters family were not at the inquest but the coroner confirmed they had seen the evidence and were content for the hearing to take place in their absence. Neighbours in Mrs Baxters quiet cul-de-sac told the Mail she had three dogs which were given to family members when she became too ill to look after them. One said: Her granddaughter came down with the dog most of the time. If it was the dog that licked her, it wasnt her granddaughters fault. She had a fall and her granddaughter got called. Either way, it was an accident. Ms Thompson concluded the inquest saying: Mrs Baxter was in frail health. On June 29, she was found to have injured her leg at home. On the following day, she reported feeling unwell. She was taken to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital where she was diagnosed with an infection which was subsequently identified to be arising from a domestic dog lick. Pasteurella multocida was found in cholera-infected birds in 1878 but was only isolated two years later by Louis Pasteur the French microbiologist renowned for his work in pasteurisation and vaccination and subsequently named after him. This is the horrifying moment a teenager nicknamed 'Rambo' slashes his victim's face with a machete in the street. Daniel Harris, 18, has been sentenced to six years in prison after hiding the deadly weapon down his trousers in the seaside town of Barry, Wales. CCTV cameras saw him bring out the 18-inch blade to slice his victim's face in a case of mistaken identity. The victim had approached Harris after wrongly believing he was a troll who insulted his sister on social media. But the chilling footage showed Harris wielding the machete at his face in fury. The victim knocked the blade and tried to escape - but he was caught up and stabbed by the thug in broad daylight. He suffered a large gash on the face and severed his Achilles tendon - a bone in the leg that plays a significant role in walking and running - which left him with tendon and nerve damage. He also needed 20 stitches and was left with a cut on his shoulder, Cardiff Crown Court heard. Daniel Harris, 18, has been sentenced to six years in prison after slashing his victim's face with a machete in the street CCTV cameras saw him bring out the 18-inch blade to slice his victim's face It was only when Harris' hood came off that the unnamed victim recognised the thug. The victim said in a statement: 'The assault had an extreme emotional effect on me. The injury still causes me constant pain. 'Every time I look in the mirror, I am reminded of the incident.' Prosecutor Roger Griffiths said the victim has already had four surgeries on his leg, and still needs more operations. Andrew Kendall, defending, said: 'He doesn't want to be known as the sort of person who commits this offence. 'The offence was very much out of character for him'. Harris, of Brynna, South Wales, was found guilty of unlawful wounding with intent. Harris was sentenced to six years detention in a Young Offender Institution after he was found guilty of unlawful wounding with intent. The victim had approached Harris after wrongly believing he was a troll who insulted his sister on social media But the chilling footage showed Harris wielding the machete at his face in fury The victim knocked the blade and tried to escape - but he was caught up and stabbed Detective Inspector Phillip Marchant said: 'Tackling crime involving weapons such as machetes and knives is a priority for South Wales Police, and we take incidents like this extremely seriously. 'There is no place for those who carry knives in our community. 'I'm pleased to see this sentence and hope it gives Harris - who is known to others as Rambo - some time to reflect on his choice to carry a weapon. 'While this incident was extremely traumatising to the victim, the outcome could have been significantly worse.' Donald Trump was enraged when CNN confronted him with newly unearthed decades-old images of him and his young kids with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. After just 30 seconds on a call with Andrew Kaczynski on Tuesday, the president hung up when asked about the resurfaced images showing Epstein at Trump's 1993 wedding to his second wife, Marla Maples. The photographs also show Epstein that same year socializing with Trump and his children Ivanka and Eric at the Harley Davidson Cafe opening in New York. The images are not new, but they have not been widely reported. Kaczynski said that Trump dismissed the reupping of the images as his administration faces a slew of criticism from his MAGA base over the Justice Department's botched Epstein files review. 'We were not on the phone very long,' he said on CNN after the article was published on Tuesday. 'I think our call was about 30 seconds or so.' 'When I asked him about the wedding photo he sort of paused for a second and then said, 'you've got to be kidding me,' before calling CNN 'fake news' and then hanging up on me,' the journalist recalled of Trump shutting down the conversation. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung doubled down on the fake news claims and reiterated how Trump kicked Epstein out of his club for 'being a creep.' CNN has unearthed a series of images of Jeffrey Epstein with Trump and his children including one of him attending Donald Trump's second wedding in 1993. Also pictured from left: Alison Stern, Robin Leach, Cecilia Nord and Howard Stern Some of the recently unearthed images show Epstein at Trump's wedding to second wife Marla Maples at The Plaza Hotel in New York City on December 20, 1993 'These are nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious,' he said in a statement on the resurfaced images. It's widely known that Trump socialized with Epstein and his co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell in the 1980s and 1990s. He is listed as one of the many famous and rich people who flew on Epstein's private plane, known as the Lolita Express. Family members of Trump are also listed on the flight log from the same period. This includes his son Eric, his second wife Marla Maples and their daughter Tiffany. Previously revealed images show Trump and his third wife and current First Lady Melania alongside Epstein and Maxwell in 1997 at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida. No charges have been brought against Trump in relation to Epstein and there is no known wrongdoing by the president during his time associating with Epstein. While CNN branded the latest images as 'never been seen' before, Kaczynski admitted in his article that the photos were available on Google images and content library Shutterstock. The outlet paid to have exclusive rights to a few of the photos for a month. Kaczynski said they 'have not been widely reported and pre-date any of Epstein's known legal issues.' Trump's association with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in the 1980s and 1990s is no secret. The president's name even appears on flight logs for the disgraced financier's private plane. Pictured: Trump and Epstein pose for an image at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida in 1997 Donald Trump, his then-girlfriend Melania Knauss, Jeffrey Epstein and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell pose together during a party at Mar-a-Lago on February 12, 2000 Some of the newly unearthed images, which CNN bought exclusive rights to, show Epstein with Trump and his kids Eric and Ivanka at the Harley Davidson Cafe opening in New York in 1993. Pictured: Eric, Ivanka, Donald and his second wife Marla Maples pose together Trump is not pleased with how his base is still obsessing over the Epstein investigation. When Attorney General Pam Bondi released a joint memo with the FBI earlier this month concluding no one else would be charged in relation to his child sex trafficking crimes, it immediately sparked fury among the MAGA base. Many of Trump's biggest fans have stoked conspiracies that Epstein did not kill himself in prison in 2019 and that he was actually murdered to keep quiet about co-conspirators. Additionally, they were clamouring for a so-called 'client list' that would reveal those who worked with Epstein. But Bondi's review found that no such list existed. Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino even threatened to quit the bureau if Bondi wasn't fired over her failure and the inconsistent messaging over the Epstein files. Epstein is seen in the background of an image of Trump with Belgian model Ingrid Seynhaeve during the Victoria's Secret Angels party on April 28, 1997 in New York City Trump was forced to give into pressure from his supporters' demanding the administration continue pushing for more answers. He directed Bondi last week to request the grand jury testimony from the court case in the Southern District of New York be unsealed. Additionally, Bondi announced that deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche is looking to speak with Maxwell 'in the coming days' to find out what she knows. Maxwell remains the only living person paying the price for Epstein's crimes. She is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence though her lawyers tried to get the Supreme Court to take up her case arguing she shouldn't have been charged due to a 2008 plea deal Epstein struck with prosecutors. The DOJ opposed Maxwell's request for appeal earlier this month. A Government plan to crack down on illegal migrant delivery riders by sharing the location of asylum hotels with food delivery companies is 'pointless' and 'ineffective', immigration lawyers warned today. The Home Office yesterday struck up a new agreement with Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats, where officials will share information about hotels in high-risk areas to help delivery companies uncover illegal working and suspend accounts. It comes after it was revealed how asylum seekers in taxpayer-funded hotels were raking in hundreds as delivery riders within days of crossing the Channel illegally on small boats. The scheme is aimed at stopping delivery riders sharing their accounts with migrants who do not have the right to work in the UK. Asylum seekers are not allowed to work for the first 12 months of being in the UK or until their application is approved. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the Labour party were taking 'decisive action to close loopholes and increase enforcement'. But, immigration lawyers today questioned how effective the crackdown will be as they called for a 'much tougher approach' over this 'blunt tool'. Emma Brooksbank, an immigration partner at Freeths, told MailOnline the agreement is 'expected to be ineffective'. She added: 'The intention is that Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats will quickly cancel accounts which are noted to be repeatedly active in high-risk areas, around asylum seeker hotels. 'It will not be difficult for illegal workers to bypass this restriction and avoid detection, thereby making the agreed data sharing pointless.' Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp found fast food delivery bicycles outside a central London asylum hotel last month A large number of delivery driver bikes were found parked outside the hotel despite a ban on asylum seekers working Ms Brooksbank said the 'gig ecomony operators are largely unregulated' and have 'no real incentive to clean up their act'. She added: 'The simple fact is that gig economy companies do not know who is using their app, and who is engaging with their customers under their brand name, making illegal work easy, effortless, and undetectable, which acts as a draw for illegal migrants to continue to arrive in small boats from France. The Government needs to take a much tougher approach, she said, suggesting companies must be held responsible and heavily fined for 'facilitating illegal work'. Angela Sharma, a barrister at Church Court Chambers, agreed telling MailOnline: 'Sharing information about the locations of asylum hotels may help identify hotspots where illegal working is more prevalent, but it's a blunt tool. 'The real issue lies in the ease with which delivery accounts can be sublet and exploited. Without stricter enforcement on platform verification and stronger deterrents for account sharing, this remains a systemic loophole. 'A tougher, more targeted approach that also holds companies accountable is needed to genuinely tackle the problem.' Sacha Wooldridge, partner and head of immigration at Birketts LLP, said data sharing 'will presumably enable stronger enforcement of penalties against those found to be acting unlawfully' and 'enable targeted police resourcing to higher crime locations'. But she added: 'If companies are already checking all drivers and substitute drivers on a daily basis, knowing the location of the hotels isn't likely to have a material impact.' Mr Philp posted a video on social media of riders leaving the hotel Meanwhile, Victoria Welsh, partner and head of business immigration at Taylor Rose, said although direct engagement between the Home Office and the gig economy companies on tackling illegal work was a 'positive step', the issue is 'wider than simply restricting access to legal employment.' Insisting the new scheme will bring about change, Home Secretary Ms Cooper said last night: 'Illegal working undermines honest business, exploits vulnerable individuals and fuels organised immigration crime. 'By enhancing our data sharing with delivery companies, we are taking decisive action to close loopholes and increase enforcement. 'The changes come alongside a 50% increase in raids and arrests for illegal working under the Plan for Change, greater security measures and tough new legislation.' Last month it emerged that migrants living in taxpayer-funded asylum hotels including those who arrived by small boat are securing work as fast food delivery riders within hours of entering Britain. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said he had found evidence of asylum seekers breaking rules which bar them from working while their claim is processed by the Home Office. The Tory politician visited an asylum hotel in central London and posted a video showing bicycles fitted with delivery boxes for Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats parked outside. Days later, the Home Office said it had called in all three companies for a dressing down and the meeting led to pledges to introduce 'facial recognition' systems on rider apps, such as those used by banks to confirm someone's identity. However, Deliveroo was refused access to hotel location data despite assurances it would be treated confidentially, the Times reported. Shadow Home Office minister Katie Lam said at the time: 'The fact that the Home Office is refusing to help them just shows how topsy-turvy this country's approach to migration has become. 'Crossing the Channel illegally is a crime. Working here illegally is a crime. 'Too many people are brazenly breaking the rules and it's a disgrace that the Home Office is aiding and abetting them.' Your browser does not support iframes. Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office, said: 'This next step of co-ordinated working with delivery firms will help us target those who seek to work illegally in the gig economy and exploit their status in the UK. 'My teams will continue to carry out increased enforcement activity across the UK and I welcome this additional tool to disrupt and stop the abuse of our immigration system.' The Government has also announced the trialling of AI-powered facial recognition technology to determine whether Channel migrants are being wrongly identified as children. The Home Office announced testing on new technology will begin later this year with the hope it could be fully integrated into the asylum system in 2026. Ministers admitted that assessing the age of asylum seekers is 'an incredibly complex and difficult task' but said AI might soon provide quick and cost-effective results. More than 23,000 migrants have crossed the Channel so far this year, up more than 50 per cent on the same point last year and the highest number in the first six months since figures began in 2018. The Home Office says there are 32,345 asylum seekers being put up at taxpayer expense in hotels, with another 66,683 in houses and flats. These have regularly been the target of protests, some of which have turned violent. The frightening moment a Louisiana Republican senator suddenly froze during a TV interview was caught on air. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy, 73, left viewers stunned during a live Fox Business interview when he abruptly froze mid-sentence and sat silently on screen for a full seven seconds. Kennedy was speaking to host Larry Kudlow on Tuesday about the Trump administration's stance on sanctuary cities when the concerning moment occurred. The senator began to trail off while referencing how Jesus loves immigrants. 'Jesus loves them, but everybody else thinks .' Kennedy said, before mumbling a few barely-audible words. 'Everybody else thinks' he repeated before looking off into the distance and going completely silent. The senator remained frozen on camera with his lips slightly parted and eyes staring forward as he stood motionless. Kudlow appeared caught off guard but quickly cut in and blamed the bizarre moment on an apparent tech issue. The senator's office told the Daily Mail that the reporting on the incident, first picked up by The Daily Beast was false. 'The Daily Beast is wrong. Yesterday, during my interview with Larry Kudlow on Fox Business, there was a malfunction in my earpiece. I heard a loud screeching noise with a lot of static. It sounded like a 747 taking off,' the senator told the Daily Mail via a statement. 'The same thing happened with Rand Paul, who was interviewed before me. I stopped talking until the interference cleared up, and thought we were off the air. Once I could hear Kudlow, I started talking again. All you have to do to get the facts is call Kudlows producer, which the Daily Beast intern clearly didnt do,' Kennedy added. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy, 73 (pictured right), left viewers stunned during a live Fox Business interview when he abruptly froze mid-sentence and sat silently on screen for a full seven seconds Kennedy was speaking to host Larry Kudlow on Tuesday about the Trump administration's stance on sanctuary cities when the concerning moment occurred (pictured speaking at a hearing in DC earlier this month) 'I guess we had some more technical problems. That was the same mic we lost with Senator Rand Paul,' Kudlow said. The average age of government leaders has been highly scrutinized in recent months as members of Congress of both political parties have experienced health scares, with some dying in office. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer was rushed to the hospital for dehydration as scorching temperatures in Washington, D.C., reached 100 degrees last month. The senator, 74, was at the Senate gym in the morning and reportedly 'got lightheaded,' according to his office. The top Democrat was taken to the hospital 'out of an abundance of caution,' his office also noted at the time. Former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, 83, fell back in February and was subsequently seen using a wheelchair. He also experienced a fall in December of 2024, which resulted in a sprained wrist. McConnell has suffered on-camera 'freezing' episodes similar to Kennedy's as well, both of which raised serious health concerns. In August 2023, McConnell froze for 30 seconds when asked if he would run for re-election in Kentucky as he made another troubling appearance just weeks after suddenly stopping in the middle of a press conference. The then-81-year-old didn't respond when a reporter pressed him on his political future. McConnell appeared to register the question about whether he would run for re-election in 2026 during the event, before he abruptly went silent and stared straight ahead. Mitch McConnell, 81, froze again in August 2023 while answering questions from reporters in Kentucky , in a troubling on-camera appearance just weeks after he froze mid-press conference while speaking just off the Senate floor An aide had to step in and repeat the question at the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Government Forum in Covington. He was then led away, sparking more concerns about his health and further questions over his position in the GOP leadership. McConnell's office later said the senator was 'lightheaded', and insisted he was 'fine', but he would consult a doctor as a precaution. Most of the serious recent health incidents involving members of Congress have plagued Democrats. Last December, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 85, fell during a trip to Luxembourg and subsequently underwent hip replacement surgery. Virginia Democrat Congressman Gerry Connolly died at the age of 75 earlier this year, shortly after sharing that he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Over the past 15 months, five other Democratic members of Congress also died while serving out their terms. Connolly's colleague Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-Texas) died at the age of 70 in March from unknown reasons. His passing came amid reports he was battling cancer in his jaw since before election in November 2024. Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona died of lung cancer at the age of 77 on March 13 and 87-year-old Rep. Bill Pascrell of New Jersey died after weeks of respiratory issues on August 21, 2024. Then Texas Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee died at the age of 74 of pancreatic cancer on July 19, 2024 and New Jersey Rep. Donald Payne Jr., 65, died of undisclosed health reasons on April 24. A collection of unseen files in the investigation into the University of Idaho murders have been released after Bryan Kohberger was given four life sentences for stabbing four students. The Moscow Police documents revealed new details of the moments cop first entered the house and found the victims and complaints from Kohberger's cellmates about his bizarre behavior while he was in custody. The stoned-faced 30-year-old refused to reveal his motive when given the chance to speak on Wednesday as a judge confirmed he will die behind bars. The former PhD student spoke just three words during the extraordinary sentencing hearing, as anguished family members branded him 'basic,' 'pathetic,' and 'evil.' Judge Steven Hippler handed down four consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole for the brutal murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Alivea Goncalves, Kaylee's older sister, tore into Kohberger during her emotional victim impact statement. Ordering him to 'sit up straight' as she spoke, she called him a 'delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser.' Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen broke down in tears as she faced the killer, calling him 'less than human' and a 'hollow vessel.' A statement read on behalf of Bethany Funke, the second survivor, described the massacre as the 'worst day' of her life. Kohberger remained impassive throughout, occasionally smirking and nodding slightly as grieving relatives unleashed their fury over his depraved actions. Bryan Kohberger will be sentenced today for the murders of four University of Idaho students in a case that sent shockwaves across the nation. The 30-year-old killer - who spent years studying criminology - will appear in Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, where he will be forced to face the families and friends of his victims, Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Whether those families will get any answers about why he did it or how he came to target the home on King Road in Moscow remains to be seen. Kohberger pleaded guilty to the quadruple murder earlier this month in a deal to avoid the death penalty. He will have an opportunity to speak at the sentencing - as will the loved ones of his victims. Here's what to expect at the killer's sentencing today. Bryan Kohberger (pictured in January 2023) will be sentenced today for the murders of four University of Idaho students in a case that sent shockwaves across the nation Kohberger will be forced to face the families and friends of his victims, Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, (pictured together) Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin Xana Kernodle's mom Cara Northington will deliver a victim impact statement today. Ethan Chapin's parents have said the family will not attend the hearing, instead planning to do something together in their son's memory. Pictured together: Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin THE LOGISTICS The sentencing hearing is scheduled to begin at 9am MT on July 23 in Ada County Courthouse and is expected to last the full day. Judge Steven Hippler has also set aside Thursday should it run into a second day. Public seating in the courtroom is first-come, first-served. The hearing will also be livestreamed. Unlike other court hearings where Kohberger has been allowed to wear his own clothes, he will be forced to appear in court in prison garb. VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENTS During the sentencing, the families and friends of the victims will be given the opportunity to confront the man who slaughtered their loved ones when they deliver victim impact statements to the court. Many have already revealed their plans to do so, including members of the Goncalves family and Kernodle's mom Cara Northington. Chapin's parents have said the family will not attend the hearing, instead planning to do something together in their son's memory. As well as the families, the two surviving roommates Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke and other friends of the victims will also have the chance to speak publicly for the first time. Those who do want to address the court can speak in-person themselves or have a representative read out a statement on their behalf. Dozens of people wait in line outside the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho today in a hopes of getting a seat in the courtroom for the sentencing of killer Bryan Kohberger WILL BRYAN KOHBERGER SPEAK? Before the judge hands down his sentence, Kohberger will also be given the opportunity to speak to the court - giving him one final opportunity to reveal why he decided to commit his heinous crime. After pleading guilty, a defendant is given a formal opportunity - called an allocution - to address the court to express remorse, accept responsibility and explain any mitigating circumstances they want the judge to consider in deciding their sentence. It is unclear if Kohberger plans to take that opportunity. There is no legal obligation for him to speak to the court or to explain his motive. Some of the victims' families have voiced their frustration that this was not a requirement of his plea deal. President Donald Trump has also weighed in on the matter, taking to Truth Social Monday to urge the judge to force Kohberger to 'explain why he did these horrible murders' in Wednesday's hearing. Since his arrest, Kohberger has cut a largely silent figure. Bryan Kohberger is pictured in a selfie on November 13, 2022, taken just hours after he carried out the quadruple murder Kohberger earlier this month pleaded guilty to the November 2022 quadruple murder at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho. Pictured is the home in December 2023 On the night of the murder, Kohbeger's car could be seen on a neighbor's surveillance camera speeding away so fast 'the car almost loses control as it makes the corner At his change of plea hearing earlier this month, he gave only one-word answers to the judge's questions confirming he was guilty of the horrific crime. He offered no answers to the questions lingering in the case, including his motive for the murders, who his intended target was and how he chose his victims. Kohberger's sentence is already agreed upon, so he perhaps has less of an incentive to speak now. THE SENTENCE Judge Hippler is expected to sentence Kohberger to life in prison without the possibility of parole, in line with the controversial plea deal struck between the defense and prosecution in the case. In an unexpected change of plea hearing on July 2, Kohberger pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. Under the terms of the plea deal, Kohberger will avoid the death penalty and will be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences for each of the murders, plus the maximum penalty of 10 years on the burglary count. Kohberger also agreed to waive his right to appeal the plea and sentence as part of the agreement. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Following the sentencing, Kohberger will be transferred to the custody of the Idaho Department of Correction, which will determine which prison will become home for the rest of his life. Due to the severity of his crime - and the high-profile nature of the case - Kohberger is expected to be sent to the state's only maximum security facility. Idaho Maximum Security Institution, which has been open since 1989, is home to other notorious inmates including doomsday cult killer Chad Daybell, who sits on death row. Following the sentencing, Kohberger (pictured during his plea hearing on July 2) will be transferred to the custody of the Idaho Department of Correction, which will determine which prison will become home for the rest of his life While Kohberger begins his lifetime behind bars, more information is expected to come to light about the murders. Pictured are housemates Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke in 2022 While Kohberger begins his lifetime behind bars, more information is expected to come to light about the murders. The gag order was lifted last week, finally allowing attorneys, law enforcement and other officials to speak about the case. At the time, both the prosecution and the defense said they would not make any statements until after the sentencing. Judge Hippler said the court will also begin the painstaking process to review all the records in the case to determine what can be unsealed and made public. Daily Mail's On The Case: The Idaho Murders - is out now wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to subscribe or follow to never miss an episode. A notorious British drug trafficker once listed in the 'top 10 criminals in Europe' has died on the Costa Blanca. Brian Charrington, an ex-associate of former international cocaine baron Curtis Warren, passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning at Marina Baixa Hospital in Villajoyosa near Benidorm. The 68-year-old was waiting to hear whether he had to start a prison sentence in Spain over a 2013 cocaine seizure. His defence lawyer had requested the suspension of the eight-year jail term on health grounds. Charrington started out as a car dealer in Middlesbrough but went on to own a Rolls-Royce, Bentley, private jet and fleet of yachts thanks to his international drugs empire. In 2011, his fortune was put at 20 million. In the eighties, he teamed up with Curtis Warren, whose personal fortune was so large he appeared on the Sunday Times Rich List, to import cocaine to the UK from Venezuela. The pair were arrested in early 1992 after a shipment of more than 900 kilos of cocaine sealed inside lead ingots in steel boxes was discovered. Brian Charrington, an ex-associate of former international cocaine baron Curtis Warren, passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning at Marina Baixa Hospital in Villajoyosa near Benidorm Charrington started out as a car dealer in Middlesbrough but went on to own a Rolls-Royce, Bentley, private jet and fleet of yachts thanks to his international drugs empire The subsequent trial collapsed after it transpired that Charrington was a police informant for the North-East Regional Crime Squad. Britain's security forces went on to re-home him in Australia but his visa was revoked shortly after his arrival. He went on to build up links with North African drug dealers after relocating to Spain and laundered millions of pounds from a fortified villa on Spain's Costa Blanca which he used to bring hashish from Morocco across the border. He was acquitted in two drugs trials in the UK before being extradited to Germany and sentenced to seven years' jail in 2003 for conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the country. Charrington was extradited to France following his release in 2006 to serve a two-year prison term over the discovery of 650 kilos of hashish found on his yacht in the English Channel in 1995. In 2004 he lost a civil suit against the Assets Recovery Agency over more than 2 million found in his loft, which he and Curtis Warren disputed the ownership of. The civil recovery order against him and Warren was described at the time as the largest of its kind. Spanish police described Charrington after his 2013 arrest in Spain as 'one of the ten most investigated criminals' by European police forces and 'leader of an international gang of drug smugglers.' Spanish police held Charrington in 2013 along with a number of other people, including his French girlfriend Isabelle Robert and son Ray, after a long-running investigation sparked by a tip-off from French police that he and Robert were smuggling cocaine into Europe from Venezuela. Their luxury villas in Calpe near Benidorm on the Costa Blanca were among a number of homes raided by police on July 4 2013. In a subsequent indictment in which prosecutors initially demanded an 18-year prison sentence for Charrington, they claimed he tried to erase information he had chalked on a blackboard in his office about amounts of cocaine and sale prices during the raid on his home. Spanish police described Charrington after his 2013 arrest in Spain as 'one of the ten most investigated criminals' by European police forces and 'leader of an international gang of drug smugglers.' Police revealed at the time of the operation they had seized 220 kilos of cocaine worth 10 million at another apartment in Albir near Benidorm, said to have been smuggled into Spain through the nearby port of Altea. Britain's Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA), Venezuelan police and a regional 18-member-state police organisation called Ameripol set up to fight drug trafficking, were also involved. Drug lord Charrington's original 2018 trial and conviction following the 2013 drug bust were quashed by Spain's Supreme Court over impartiality issues, and a second trial had to be held. That resulted in an eight-year five five-month prison sentence for the Brit criminal, which his lawyers were trying to get him exempted from serving because of his poor health. The Spanish courts had yet to rule on Charrington's lawyer's request when he passed away. One of Brian's three grown-up children wrote on social media late last night: 'Rest in peace Dad.' The Brit criminal is understood to have been admitted to hospital shortly before his death. A Syrian asylum seeker raped a 12-year-old girl in a room above a shop where he was illegally working after telling her 'the streets were not safe'. Mohammed Wahid Mohammed, 22, groomed the youngster with a vape, fizzy drinks, and crisps before locking her in a bedroom and repeatedly attacking her. She had run away from home and caught a train to Birmingham before being brought to the Villa supermarket in Handsworth, West Midlands, by a concerned homeless woman. The girl was later rescued by an Asian family at a nearby takeaway where one of my members punched Wahid Mohammed. Wahid Mohammed, who had lived in Walsall, was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday, July 17, to 12 years in prison with an extended five-year licence. It is not known if the child rapist will be deported with a judge saying it would be up to the authorities to decide at a later date. He had admitted two counts of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13 but a jury also found him guilty of three charges of rape. Judge Roderick Henderson ruled Wahid Mohammed was a 'dangerous' offender and said: 'This was a sustained event, albeit on one day. Mohammed Wahid Mohammed, 22, groomed a 12-year-old girl with a vape, fizzy drinks, and crisps before locking her in a bedroom and repeatedly attacking her 'There was some grooming although it was limited in time. 'But you exploited her because she was plainly young and effectively away from home.' The girl left her home on September 24 last year before boarding a train and ending up in Birmingham city centre around 8.30pm. Andrew Wallace, prosecuting, said: 'She had a couple of pounds on her. A homeless lady approached her. 'She bought the lady a cup of tea. The homeless lady then walked her down Villa Road to Villa Supermarket. 'As soon as the defendant saw her he said: "You look really young. You look really cold do you want to come into the shop? It's warm in there, I'll get you something to eat and drink".' He added: 'He knew she was far away from home, there was discussion about that. 'Ironically, he told her it wasn't safe on the streets. He coaxed her into the shop under the pretence of being concerned. Really he only had sex in mind.' Wahid Mohammed told the girl to take a vape, crisps and fizzy drink from the shelves. The youngster had run away from home and caught a train to Birmingham before being brought to the Villa supermarket in Handsworth, West Midlands, by a concerned homeless woman He then led her to the upstairs bedroom where he had been sleeping. Mr Wallace told the court: 'He led her to a bedroom and leant in to kiss her. She said "woah you know I'm only 12". It's quite plain at one stage she was pretending to be older.' Wahid Mohammed sexually abused the girl for an hour before they went to a nearby takeway. Mr Wallace said: 'A young Asian family was there and were concerned about him and her. 'There was a suggestion an Asian male thumped the defendant because of his concern. 'She pretended she was older. Some sort of Facebook alarm showed she had run away from home so they took her back to where she belonged.' After being arrested Wahid Mohammed initially claimed the girl had consented to sexual activity before he was informed she was too young to legally consent. Nicholas Devine, defending, said his client had led a 'difficult life' but had never previously committed a crime. He confirmed his girlfriend had decided to stay with him and support him. The chief constable of Essex Police has dismissed calls to resign over the force's handling of the Epping protests after footage emerged of officers escorting pro-migrant activists to an asylum seeker hotel where violent clashes erupted. Ben-Julian Harrington rejected calls from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to step down and firmly extinguished claims his officers had given a higher level of protection to pro-migrant protesters. Asked if he would resign, he told a press conference today: 'No, I am not [resigning]. I am not going to do that. This is not about me, this is about the communities of Essex.' He added: 'The issue is not about my resignation. The issue is about an effective police operation that keeps the communities of Epping safe...' The Bell Hotel, in Epping, Essex, has been the centre of a string of violent demonstrations after an asylum seeker was arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl in the town eight days after arriving in the UK. Essex Police had initially denied it had brought Stand Up to Racism activists to the hotel before ugly clashes broke out with anti-migrant protesters on Thursday. But after being shown footage of officers leading the group from a nearby station to outside the hotel, the force then backtracked and admitted it had provided a 'foot cordon'. Nigel Farage called for Chief Constable Harrington to resign, saying the footage is 'absolutely disgraceful' and 'heads must roll'. The Reform UK leader later posted footage allegedly showing pro-migrant protesters being 'bussed' to the demonstration in police vans but Essex Police said this was 'categorically' untrue. The force explained that pro-migrant protesters were given a 'foot cordon' on their way to the protest and those who were 'clearly at risk of being hurt' later on were 'escorted by vehicle'. Ben-Julian Harrington (pictured) rejected calls from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to step down Footage of Essex Police helping counter-demonstrators from a nearby station to the Bell Hotel in Epping on July 17 emerged after the force initially denied offering help Anti-immigration protesters confront a cordon of riot police officers preventing them from getting near a small group of counter-protesters in Epping on July 17 Facing a barrage of questions today, Chief Constable Harrington rejected claims his officers had given a higher level of protection to pro-migrant protesters. 'No, I don't accept that,' he said. 'The only protection that officers are doing is to those lawful and law-abiding people, whether they are in that accommodation, whether they are the people of Epping or whether they are people who are standing there with placards and banners wishing to make a very important and legitimate view, whichever your views about it. 'Where officers have intervened that is because there has been disorder...We are not being partial in any way, shape or form.' The chief constable also dismissed claims pro-migrants were 'bussed' to the hotel', explaining: 'There has been some accusations in the media that we drove people to the protest. That is not true. 'We have not driven anybody to that protest. People made their own way there... we did take people away for their safety and the safety of everyone there.' He agreed that officers had walked alongside counter-protesters when they made their way to the Bell Hotel in scenes which prompted violence and attacks on both demonstrators and police. 'People have the freedom of assembly and freedom of speech,' he said. 'They have a duty to exercise their right to assembly and protest. 'People came of their own volition, walked to the protest. In order to ensure and understand the threat we had officers there and they walked alongside them so they could intervene and prevent crime.' Bottles and smoke flares thrown towards police vehicles stationed outside The Bell Hotel on July 20 A masked protester faces a cordon of riot police officers preventing them from getting near a small group of pro-migrant protesters Dozens of officers were seen standing close to the protesters with riot helmets in their hands on July 20 People wrapped in St George's flag faced down riot police who lined up in a queue on Hemnall Street on July 20 Police officers separate 'anti-racism' demonstrators from others protesting at the scene on July 13 He added: 'The issue of whether or not they [asylum seekers] should or shouldn't be there [in hotels] is not a matter for the police.' Asked about comments made by the likes of Mr Farage and others who have been accused of stoking demonstrations, he said it was 'not the police's job to clamp down on elected politicians.' However he warned they should be careful if their comments lead to violence. 'All I'm asking is people are responsible for what they say and consider the real-world consequences. Where people commit crimes online we will apply the law. Where people have their views where I or others disagree I appeal for people to be responsible and consider what they say.' Mr Harrington said that colleagues in forces across the country had been discussing with the Home Office issues around housing asylum seekers in hotels. He added: 'What is unacceptable is the people who have come to Epping and committed violence, attacked people at the hotel, attacked officers, damaged property and caused fear and disruption to the people of Epping.' Four people have now been charged with violent disorder, with one charged with failing to remove a face covering when directed to do so. Two people have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, one on suspicion of having an article with intent to cause damage and one on suspicion of using threatening words or behaviour. Protests have since spread to other parts of the country, with more than 150 gathering outside The Park Hotel, in Diss, Norfolk on Monday after the Home Office announced plans to change it from housing asylum-seeker families to single men. Dozens of police officers were deployed to the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf last night The hotel has been cordoned off but workers were seen bringing beds and mattresses inside this morning Protesters gathered outside the hotel, some wearing masks and others draped in St George's flags Police officers blocked access to the hotel which the Government intends to use to house migrants A police officer sits in a car outside the entrance of the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf A police cordon and fencing is placed outside the Britannia International Hotel this morning A person waves an English flag from a car as it passes the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf One placard brought by a group of protesters said: 'This is a peaceful protest to protect our own.' Amid warnings 'discontent is real' in Britain, Met Police officers were called to the Britannia International Hotel, on Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf, last night Furious hotel guests have left damning reviews online, claiming they were told their stays were 'cancelled' Police officers gather in front of counter-protesters outside the Canary Wharf hotel A row of police officers were seen blocking the entrance to the Britannia International Hotel There was a significant police presence with officers guarding the hotel last night Dozens of protesters gather outside the Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf on Tuesday The demonstration took place on Tuesday evening outside the Britannia Hotel, in Canary Wharf, which Tower Hamlets Council has confirmed the government intends to use for asylum seekers Meanwhile, last night Metropolitan Police officers were forced to surround a four-star hotel in Canary Wharf after protesters gathered outside in response to Government plans to house migrants there. The demonstration in London's financial district place took place outside the Britannia International Hotel, which Tower Hamlets Council has confirmed the Government intends to use for asylum seekers. Tuesday's action marks the latest anti-migrant protest, with Sir Keir Starmer warned Britain could face a second 'summer of riots' if Labour fails to get a grip on migrant hotels. Trouble first broke out in Epping last Thursday after Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was charged with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in the town by attempting to kiss her. He denies the charges. Around 150 people gathered outside The Park Hotel, in Diss, Norfolk, on Monday. Protesters and counter-protesters clashed Protesters, including children, held up banners saying 'stop the boats', while others clashed with counter-protesters The Deputy Prime Minister told the Cabinet they had to 'acknowledge the real concerns people have' about immigration and economic insecurity as fears of a 'summer of riots' grew The protest started peacefully, but descended into frenzied violence when anti-migrant demonstrators clashed with counter protesters and police. A spokesman for Essex Police said: 'There are claims on social media that Essex Police officers 'bussed' protesters to the protest outside the Bell Hotel on Thursday 17 July. 'This is categorically wrong. Officers did provide a foot cordon around protesters on their way to the protest, where they and others were allowed to exercise their right to protest. 'Later some people who were clearly at risk of being hurt were also escorted by vehicle away from the area for their safety. To reiterate, we categorically did not drive any counter-protesters to the site on any occasion.' A county in Arkansas that has been poor for decades could see a revival as President Donald Trump's tariffs on foreign steel create more incentives for domestic producers. Over the past decade US Steel and other manufacturers have poured billions of dollars of investment into Mississippi County, an area along the major river bearing the same name. The county is now set to produce 12 million tons of steel each year, just behind northwest Indiana, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute. That is thanks to the three major steel mills in Osceola, the county seat. Two of those facilities, one owned by US Steel and the other by Hybar, were finished within the past three years. While the growth largely predates Trump's tariffs, the president's controversial policy may provide a further boon for the area. Despite this sign of hope, towns across the county are still full of rural decay and abandoned buildings, serving as a depressing reminder of the area's glory days in the 1950s. Back then, the area was known as an agricultural powerhouse for cotton and soybeans. Many steelworkers who work in Mississippi County still see it as too remote to live in and choose to commute long distances. They often travel in from neighboring states like Tennessee. Some who have homes out of state opt to live in RVs near their worksite when they are on one of their dayslong shifts. US Steel estimates that only 38 percent of its workforce in the county also reside there. Despite drawing in billions of dollars of investment from steel producers, Mississippi County is still marked by rural decay (Pictured: Main street in Osceola, the county seat) The county still has a long way to go to regain the status it enjoyed 80 years ago when it was considered a middle-class haven (Pictured: A thriving street corner Osceola in 1948) The county still has a long way to go to regain the status it enjoyed 80 years ago when it was considered a middle-class haven. The median household income for the county is $53,428, and about one in four people live in poverty, according to 2023 census estimates. The medium household income across the US as a whole was $80,610. 'We used to have churches but now theyre almost all empty,' Clif Chitwood, the countys economic-development officer, told The Wall Street Journal. 'Theres been just a collapse of the whole social structure.' The county seeks to address this by taking advantage of the steel boom at the moment and offering home buyers money toward down payments on new or existing properties. The initiative, called 'Work Here. Live Here,' is available to anyone who chooses to live and work in the county for at least four years. The long-term viability of the program is not yet clear, but Chitwood said it has already started to bring in new residents. Mervin Jebaraj, an economist at the University of Arkansas, cast doubt on this plan, citing growing efforts from companies to automate away jobs. Steel manufacturers are certainly not immune to this growing workplace trend, Jebaraj told The Journal. Pictured: The exterior of Hybar's $700 million mill in Osceola. The facility also has a solar farm Big companies like US Steel or General Motors were once able to launch hospitals and schools to help build a community around their factories. They now operate on much thinner margins, meaning large-scale efforts to create a functioning, thriving region have been replaced with small donations to local initiatives. The burden has largely fallen on local and county governments to revitalize their areas with the tax money they still have in their coffers. Part of the spend from officials goes toward luring the companies. Over a period of years over the past two decades the Great River Economic Development Foundation invested about $25 million to attract steel-related businesses. The taxpayer funds helped steel companies buy land and equipment. They also went toward training workers. This strategy paid off, with Big River Steel building its first plant, worth $1.4 billion, in 2014. US Steel took over Big River in 2021, then launched a separate $3 billion mill in 2022, the largest private investment into Arkansas in the state's history. Finally, in 2023, Hybar announced it would build a $700 million mill to make rebar, along with a solar farm to power its machinery. Mississippi County now boasts 7,000 and 8,000 steel or steel-related jobs, which is about a quarter of all the jobs in the county. But even with all the investment, the county still needed to get people to actually live there to fuel its tax base. With help from the initiative Barrett Fisackerly bought a $240,000 house with his wife in Blytheville, Arkansas, he told The Journal The 'Work Here. Live Here' initiative was born for that exact purpose. The county worked with Farmers Bank & Trust, a local bank, to develop a financing plan. Under the framework newly constructed homes and existing homes would come with forgivable loans of 10 percent and 5 percent, respectively. Steel companies and other employers have been asked to contribute to the program. That money was later lent back to their own employees. So far, a dozen private employers in the county have invested, allowing about 160 families to buy homes in the county. US Steel said it has contributed $3.4 million to the program and has benefitted 148 employees, according to Daniel R Brown, chief operating officer of the companys operations in the county. Chitwood said about 250 new homes have been built in the past 14 months, with more than half of them bought under the 'Work Here. Live Here' initiative. 'It doesnt sound like many until you realize its more than we had in 20 years,' he said. With help from the initiative Barrett Fisackerly bought a $240,000 house with his wife in Blytheville, Arkansas, he told The Journal. Fisackerly and his wife are both employed at Lexicon, a steel fabricator and construction company that is a short drive south from their new home. A migrant who came to America as a boy 20 years ago is set to be deported after accidentally missing an exit on the freeway in Southern California and winding up in Mexico. Erick Hernandez, 34, of East Los Angeles, migrated to the US from El Salvador at 14 years old, making him eligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), NBC San Diego reported. DACA is granted to migrants who came to the US before turning 16 years old. It delays deportation so recipients can live and work in the country. Hernandez, whose parents gained legal status in the US, was working on becoming legal after marrying his wife, who is an American citizen. The couple had a daughter and are expecting a son in August. Hernandez's family and attorney told NBC San Diego that he was working as a rideshare driver on June 1 when he missed a freeway exit in San Ysidro and found himself in Tijuana. 'And when that happened, he lost everything, basically,' his immigration lawyer, Valerie Sigamani, toldthe outlet. DACA recipients need to apply for 'advance parole' to travel internationally and return to the US. Erick Hernandez, 34, of East Los Angeles, migrated to the US from El Salvador at 14 years old His wife, Nancy Rivera, is an American citizen. The two have a child together and are expecting their second Since Hernandez didn't have prior permission to leave and return to the country, his DACA status was stripped when he crossed the border. Now, he's being held at Otay Mesa Detention Center and undergoing an expedited removal deportation process to El Salvador. She added that when Hernandez was approached by agents with Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), they offered to let him back into the country if he paid a bribe. 'One of the officials told him, "Well, if you pay us $800, we'll forgive everything, and we'll let you into the United States with no problem,"' his attorney said. Hernandez assumed the payment was a part of a legal process, but didn't have enough cash with him. The Daily Mail reached out to CBP and Sigamani for comment. Sigamani said Hernandez is holding onto hope that he'll be able to return before his wife gives birth. 'He has a lot of hope. He feels like something good is going to happen. He's a person of faith,' she told NBC San Diego. Hernandez missed a freeway exit in San Ysidro and found himself in Tijuana (file photo) Since Hernandez didn't have prior permission to leave and return to the country, his DACA status was stripped when he crossed the border Hernandez's lawyer said he is optimistic but fearful of deportation to El Salvador Despite his optimism, she added that Hernandez lives in fear of returning to a country he hasn't lived in since he was a child. As Hernandez awaits his fate in a detention center, his pregnant wife, Nancy Rivera, is caring for their child alone and working full-time. She's concerned about making ends meet without him. 'I'm just worried that he's, if he gets deported, like, how I'm going to manage everything by myself,' she told NBC San Diego. 'It' just a lot of, you know, stress, anxiety that I have.' President Donald Trump's approval rating improved a hair with voters according to a new exclusive Daily Mail/J.L. Partners poll, even as they give him failing grades for his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Forty-nine percent of voters now approve of Trump's job performance as president, up one point from the tracking survey conducted earlier in July. But he remains underwater as 51 percent disapprove of Trump's job performance, down one point from earlier in the month. The margin of error in the survey of 1,007 registered voters is 3.1 percent. The poll numbers suggest Trump is surviving politically during a punishing news cycle consumed by the Epstein files and his administration's failure to disclose them as he promised during his presidential campaign. The president's job approval is up one percentage point from June and remains his highest rating since May. 'The news saga might have seemed terrible for Trump in the last few days, but it isnt having an impact on his approval rating,' James Johnson, JL Partners co-founder told the Daily Mail. 'In fact, we think its going up, from 48 percent to 49 percent, making this his best approval rating since May. His ratings with the base is holding up too, unchanged on 91 percent with Republicans,' Johnson continued. But Trump's strong job approval ratings does not carry over to his handling of the Epstein files. US President Donald Trump participates in a reception with Republican Members of Congress in the East Room as approval ratings tick up Your browser does not support iframes. Forty-two percent of voters disapprove of his handling of the issue while just 27 percent approve. A significant number of voters, 20 percent, did not appear to care about the case as they neither approved nor disapproved Trump's handling of the issue. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump referred to the ongoing saga as a 'witch hunt' indicating he was tired of answering questions from the media about it. Despite the president's best efforts to put the issue behind him, few voters believe in the administration's assessment of the case. Only fifteen percent in the poll said they believed the Justice Department's memo released by Attorney General Pam Bondi concluding that Epstein committed suicide in prison and that the infamous pedofile did not have a 'client list' they could release. Forty-seven percent said they did not believe the administration's account of the Epstein case, and that they believed there was more secrets to uncover. Twenty-three percent said they believed the Trump administration memo, but that there was more to uncover in the case. 'This is despite voters disapproving of his handling of the Epstein scandal. What explains the difference? Voters simply do not rate it highly on their list of priorities,' Johnson said. President Donald Trump raises his fist after speaking during a reception for Republican members of Congress Your browser does not support iframes. Ninety percent of the Republican voter base continue to grant the president solid approval ratings, despite their misgivings about the Epstein files. The poll was conducted as Trump furiously contested a Wall Street Journal report that he had signed a letter to Epstein for his 50th birthday which concluded: 'Happy Birthday - and may every day be another wonderful secret,' and featured a hand-drawn image of a naked woman as well as his signature. Trump decried the news article as 'fake' and filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the company. 'They are judging Trump on other issues - such as the economy, the southern border, and how he is actually running the country. Their grumbles on the Epstein handling are not enough for them to turn on their man,' Johnson said. While the majority of Republicans, 52 percent, give Trump a passing grade on his handling of the Epstein files, just 13 percent of Independent voters feel the same way. Fifty percent of independent voters in the survey said they disapproved of the way the Trump administration has handled the Epstein files case. An undocumented migrant set his house on fire, killing himself, his wife and two young children as horrified neighbors watched the tragedy unfold, according to police. Yordano Valencia Pina reportedly started the fire in the Utah home on Friday, trapping his wife Jaimar Bravo Gil, 33, their son Juliano, 9, and daughter Yorgina, 14, inside. West Jordan neighbors who witnessed the inferno jumped into rescue efforts before authorities arrived at the scene. A man was seen on video jumping a fence to try to get inside the $600,000 burning home and rescue the residents. The good Samaritans saw Yorgina, whose body was completely burned, trying to escape the house fire by crawling to a neighbor's yard. One of the neighbors, Robert Harlow, told ABC 4 the teen girl's eyes were burned shot as she fought for her life. She was reportedly yelling for help and saying she needed oxygen. 'It was the worst thing Ive ever seen in real life,' Harlow said. Yordano Valencia Pina started a fire in a Utah home on Friday, trapping his wife Jaimar Bravo Gil, 33, their son Juliano, 9, and daughter Yorgina, 14, inside, according to police Neighbors who witnessed the inferno jumped into rescue efforts before authorities arrived at the scene Yorgina, 14, Juliano, 9, and their mother Jaimar Bravo Gil, 33, are pictured. The family had moved to the US from Venezuela two years ago Yorgina was airlifted to the hospital, where she later died, but not before telling police that her father was to blame for the fire. Harlow managed to save the family's dog, who became the only survivor of the fire. 'I reached down, and I felt a dog on some stairs, trapped behind a childs gate... I ripped the gate out of the wall, grabbed the dog and took it out to the front yard. I felt like it was taking its last breaths,' he said. Harlow suffered elevated carbon monoxide levels during the rescue efforts and was taken to the hospital. He has since fully recovered. West Jordan police said the fire was due to arson after officials found a fire accelerant in the home. The family came to the US from Venezuela about two years ago, as reported by ABC 4. Jaimar's family told the local outlet that she was being abused by her husband, but did not go to police because she was undocumented and feared deportation. 'It wasnt just this weekend it was many years of mistreatment,' Jaimar's sister said. Local man Robert Harlow said the teen girl's eyes were burned shot as she fought for her life. She was airlifted to the hospital, where she later died Harlow managed to save the family's dog, who became the only survivor of the fire Police said the suspect was seen pacing back and forth before and explosion was heard inside the home West Jordan police said the fire was due to arson after officials found a fire accelerant in the home 'I feel powerless. I feel powerless today. I feel destroyed. I feel many people could have done more.' There was one previous incident of domestic violence reported at the family's home, officials said. Police also revealed Yordano had been pacing back and forth before there was an explosion in the home. Yordano reportedly also called his employer Friday to say he would be late to work and had been selling some of his possessions. The neighbour of a woman who 'disappeared off the face of the Earth' has broken his silence 16 years after she went missing. Building boss Peter Ruane was a close friend of Claudia Lawrence when the chef disappeared in 2009 at the age of 35. Mr Ruane, now 65, was one of four drinking friends from the 'Nag's Head' arrested on suspicion of murder - all of which were later released without charge. The former neighbour has now spoken out on a podcast to say he was 'close' to Ms Lawrence and 'misses her a great deal'. It comes as the young woman was reported missing after she failed to turn up to work as a chef at York University in March 2009. Sixteen years on, the case - treated as a murder inquiry by North Yorkshire Police almost from the start - has remained unresolved and has become one of the most high-profile in the country. Speaking to journalist Tom McDermott on the "Answers for Claudia podcast", Mr Ruane said: 'I had nothing to do with her disappearance. I was close to Claudia and I miss her a great deal.' Mr Ruane added he would be happy to help Ms Lawrence's mother Joan, 81, if she 'reached out' to him and said he had known the missing chef's father for 20 years. Claudia Lawrence (pictured) was reported missing after she failed to report to work as a chef at York University in March 2009 The 35-year-old is pictured with her father Peter. The high-profile case remains unresolved 16 years on Joan Lawrence (pictured) has said she is grateful for the new attention bought to the case as a result of the podcast adding she will 'never, ever give up' fighting for answers Then aged 49, Mr Ruane previously spoke out the same year Ms Lawrence disappeared, saying: 'Where she is now, it's not out of choice. She just wouldn't let work down and wouldn't let people down. Without a shadow of doubt she would ring home.' Joan Lawrence has said she is grateful for the new attention brought to the case as a result of the podcast adding she will 'never, ever give up' fighting for answers and 'I've got to keep going. The not knowing where she is, is the hardest'. Ms McDermott made contact with Mr Ruane while involved in Ms Lawrence's friendship group as he spoke to people in Malton and Heworth where the Lawrences lived. Ms Lawrence's breakfast bowls had been left in the kitchen sink and her slippers were by the door when she disappeared with her home left in a 'time warp' and her clothes and belongings waiting for her to return. The chef's mother said she regularly visits the house as a condition of the house insurance. Following the 15th anniversary of Ms Lawrence's disappearance, Acting Assistant Chief Constable at North Yorkshire Police, Wayne Fox, stated the inquiry was not closed and that detectives remained determined to uncover what happened to Ms Lawrence. The Answers for Claudia podcast has been working with Ms Lawrence's mother for several years and has revealed the 35-year-old's house 'had been disturbed not once, but twice'. They voiced fears the raiders had struck twice since the podcast revealed a secret attic was found in the terraced home. The route Claudia Lawrence should have taken to get work - where she failed to turn up A tissue and packet of half used chewing gum was also discovered inside a black leather jacket which the pair believed could hold vital DNA clues - but upon their return to the home they were horrified to realise someone had been inside. Mr McDermott said: 'New information has come forward and along with that people of significant interest, who have perhaps not felt comfortable to speak for over a decade, perhaps even 16 years, have come forward. 'We have passed that new information to the police as we always do. 'From a human point of view we feel like it is working and although it's answers for Claudia, actually just as importantly answers for Joan as well. '...One of the challenges when we started this journey was the wall of silence almost as if people were reluctant to come forwardbut what we are finding is, that's slowly lifting.' Mr McDermott added they had 'noticed in recent months that the house has been disturbed not once but twice which is of particular concern' but felt it is probably due to work they are doing with the podcast. He concluded: '...I think we are getting closer and new information has been handed over in recent months.' Local pub landlord George Forman had said in 2009 following Ms Lawrence's disappearance: 'We are really worried. We can't think of any explanation. She has just disappeared off the face of the Earth.' A journalist reporting on the disappearance of a girl was horrified after he investigated something in the water to find the submerged body of the missing teenager. Brazilian reporter Lenildo Frazao and a TV crew visited the Mearim River, in the country's northeastern city of Bacabal, on June 30 to film a story about 13-year-old Raissa, who disappeared while bathing with her friends on a day earlier. Frazao was delivering a piece to camera when he spotted something in the river. He took off his shoes and waded in up to his chest when he suddenly felt something submerged underwater. 'I think there is something at the bottom of the water,' he said. The visibly shaken reporter lunged forward and spit out water before he made his way to a shallow area. Frazao waited a moment before he went back to the part of the river where he came across Raissa's body. He then lowered his arm to see if he could find it. 'It looked like one arm,' he said. Lenildo Frazao, a journalist with TV, in Bacabal, Brazil went with a crew to the Mearim River to film a story on June 30 about 13-year-old Raissa, who disappeared while bathing with her friends a day earlier. Frazao was wading through the river and stopped when he stumbled upon the teen's body Lenildo Frazao lost his balance and was clearly shaken after he his feet touched the body of the 13-year-old missing girl in the Mearim River while filming a segment f Fire department divers located the body of 13-year-old Raissa on June 30, a day after she drowned in the Mearim River in Bacabal, a city in the northeastern Brazilian state of Maranhao He flinched for a moment and waded through the river some more. 'My God from heaven,' Frazao said. 'Where's the girl's body. It was right here like this.' The Maranhao Military Fire Department was alerted and a team drivers searched the Mearim River and recovered Raissa's body on the morning of June 30. According to local outlets, Raissa and a group of friends were in the river together when she suddenly began to struggle to stay afloat and screamed for help. The group was unable to rescue the teenager and ran to seek assistance from residents, who were unable to locate her. Two airplanes avoided catastrophe on a Mexico City runway on Monday when one of the planes landed ahead an aircraft that was prepping for takeoff. The near-miss incident took place at Benito Juarez International Airport at 7:28 am as Delta Flight 590 bound for Atlanta was advancing down runway 5R. Flight tracking website Flightradar 24 showed Aeromexico Connect Flight 1631 appearing out of nowhere and flying less than 200 feet over the Delta Boeing 737. The Aeromexico Embraer 190 jet then landed in front of the Delta plane, which was carrying 144 passengers and six crew members. The Delta flight came to a full stop on the runway and returned to the gate. It did not depart until 9:42 am and landed at Hartfield-Jackson International Airport at 3:20 pm. The Atlanta-based air carrier filed a report about the near-collision to Mexican aviation authorities as well as the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board. 'Because nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta will fully cooperate with authorities as the circumstances around this flight are investigated,' an airline spokesperson said in statement. Delta Airlines Flight 590 was preparing for takeoff at Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City, Mexico on Monday when Aeromexico Connect Flight 1631 flew over it and landed 'We appreciate the flight crew's actions to maintain situational awareness and act quickly part of Delta's extensive training.' The incident comes just days after a SkyWest Airlines plane, that was operating as a Delta connection flight from Minneapolis to Minot, North Dakota almost crashed mid-air with a U.S. Air Force jet. SkyWest Flight 3788 had to swerve away from the B-52 bomber that was conducting a programmed flyover in The SkyWest pilot reportedly said the incident caught him by surprise, prompting him to make an aggressive move to avoid a possible collision, according to a video recording posted by a passenger on social media. Aeromexico Flight 1631 (yellow plane image) was flying about 200 feet above Delta Flight 590 (pink image), which was about to take off, when it landed in front of it Delta Airlines lauded 'the flight crew's actions to maintain situational awareness and act quickly' following the near-miss collision with an Aeromexico aircraft at Benito Juarez International Airport in Mexico City, Mexico on Monday Representative Betty McCollum, a Minnesota Democrat, said she was highly concerned with the incident. 'The incident in Minot raises serious questions about passenger safety,' McCollum said. 'Given the Department of Defense training that takes place in the surrounding area, Minot International Airport must also immediately receive and install radar technology to have a full accounting of all local air traffic.' Last Thursday, a Delta Airlines plane almost collided with a smaller aircraft that crossed its path in Tennessee. Flight 2724 - a packed Airbus A321 - was cleared for takeoff from Nashville International Airport, bound for Minneapolis-St. Paul when the pilot hit the breaks and avoided what could have been a fatal collision with a single-engine plane. Florida's top prosecutor told residents to let his office know if their ex-partner is in the US illegally so they can 'assist' in getting back at them. Attorney General James Uthmeier - dubbed 'Bulldog' by Governor Ron DeSantis - took to X Tuesday, letting locals know exactly how they can carry out the ultimate 'revenge' on their exes. 'We recently got a tip from someone whose abusive ex overstayed a tourism visa. He is now cued up for deportation,' the Republican, 37, posted. 'If your ex is in the country illegally, please feel free to reach out to our office. We'd be happy to assist.' The U.S. Department of Homeland Security then joined in on Uthmeier's statement, calling the illegal migrant he spoke of a 'loser.' 'From domestic abuser to deported loser,' the agency wrote. 'ICE Tip Line: 866-DHS-2-ICE.' People quickly reacted to Uthmeier's bizarre post, with some getting a laugh out of it while others were left offended and furious. 'How about Mother-In-Laws?,' one user commented. Attorney General James Uthmeier (pictured with his wife Jean) took to X Tuesday letting locals know they can report their exes if they are in the U.S. illegally People quickly reacted to Uthmeier's bizarre post, with some getting a laugh out of it while others were left offended and furious 'My ex gf with kids is here illegally. Will you go after her? Or is this only for men?,' another asked. '... You really tryna get people to snitch on their illegal exes Im so here for it hahahaha,' someone else wrote. A user wrote: 'This is beautiful.' Another asked if Uthmeier could 'do me a solid' and target exes in general, not just illegal migrants. 'C'mon bro, do the exes have to be in the country illegally? Can you do me a solid?,' they wrote. While some found his post comical, others did not. One wrote: 'What kind of government promotes a culture of informers and anonymous denunciations rather then [sic] marriage guidance counselling? 'What kind of government unleashes gangs of masked thugs (ICE) to spread a climate of fear through whole communities?' The U.S. Department of Homeland Security then joined in on Uthmeier's statement, calling the illegal migrant he spoke of a 'loser' Another simply wrote: 'Gross.' 'NOT FUNNY BRO,' a user wrote, as another added: 'Brutal.' Just hours after his post about exes, Uthmeier, who is no stranger to speaking out about his immigration policy beliefs, shared a post by the Florida Highway Patrol announcing the arrest of six Guatemalan nationals that they nabbed during a traffic stop. Uthmeier wrote: 'Florida sets the standard for assisting the Trump administration in enforcing federal immigration law. Great job, FHP!' Uthmeier took office as the state's attorney general earlier this year after being picked by Governor DeSantis. He was given the new role as a change in positions took place in the Sunshine State following the start of Donald Trump's second presidential term. DeSantis chose Ashley Moody, the former attorney general, to replace Marco Rubio in the U.S. Senate after Trump chose him to serve as the Secretary of State. He has been outspoken about the opening of the new detention facility, 'Alligator Alcatraz,' in Florida. Uthmeier (pictured in March) took office as the state's attorney general earlier this year after being picked by Governor DeSantis In June, Uthmeier unveiled controversial plans to build the immigration detention center as part of Trump's sweeping crackdown to deport so-called 'criminal aliens.' He loudly threw his support behind the Trump Administration's mass deportation agenda, declaring that the state had already been lending a hand to make it happen. Uthmeier proposed building the massive 39-square-mile site deep in the everglades - surrounded by thousands of alligators and pythons. 'Alligator Alcatraz - this existing island in the middle of the swamp presents a great option for criminal detention and deportation,' Uthmeier previously wrote to X. 'The one-stop shop to carry out President Trump's mass deportation agenda,' he added. Earlier this month, the first detainees were admitted into the new detention center, amid warnings of flooding in the area where it was constructed. An aerial view of Alligator Alcatraz, located at the site of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in Ochopee, Florida A migrant being held there, Juan Palma, recently revealed the conditions inside the site, specifically noting that it is mosquito-infested and that inmates are being corralled inside cages A migrant being held there, Juan Palma, recently revealed the conditions inside the site, specifically noting that it is mosquito-infested and that inmates are being corralled inside cages. Palma, 48, who has spent more than two weeks at the center, told NBC6 that the lights stay on around the clock, leaving him clueless as to the time of day. The Cuban migrant said that he and 32 other people live in what he described as a cage and that they are only allowed to shower every three or four days. 'I feel like my life is in danger,' Palma said of the 'torturous' conditions. 'There are too many mosquitos, you can't sleep,' he added. An elderly British couple held in Afghanistan for over five months are reportedly 'receiving medical care' and are 'in occasional contact with their families'. The update on the couple was given by the Taliban's foreign minister after UN experts warned that Peter, 80, and Barbie Reynolds, 75, could die in custody. They were arrested on February 1 in Bamiyan province along with an Afghan interpreter and their Chinese-American friend Faye Hall, who has since been released. The pair, who have lived in Afghanistan for 18 years and were married in Kabul in 1970, ran a training organisation offering education programmes, including parenting skills courses. At a press conference in Kabul, the minister said: 'All their human rights are being respected. They are being provided with medical care. 'They are in occasional contact with their families.' He added that 'efforts are underway to secure their release, but the process is not complete'. The statement is similar to what was said in April when questions about their release arose. In the UN special rapporteur, Alice Edwards' warning, she said their conditions could lead to 'rapid deterioration in mental and physical health. The Taliban government claims that Peter and Barbara Reynolds are receiving medical care' and are 'in occasional contact with their families She also cautioned that they face 'irreparable harm or even death'. Although no charges have been levelled against the pair, they were held in a maximum security prison for several months. They were also detained in underground cells without daylight. They were eventually moved to the Taliban's intelligence headquarters in Kabul. The UN report went into details about Peter's worsening health - he suffers from tremors, eye infections, and needs heart medication after he suffered a stroke in 2023. Barbie is also said to be 'weak and fragile'. She is also anaemic and has numbness in her feet. Their children, who live in the UK and the US, have repeatedly pleaded for their parents' release, saying they fear they may 'die in custody'. Although officials from the UK Foreign Office were allowed to perform a welfare visit, the promise of the couple's quick release by the Taliban government has not materialised. Peter suffers from tremors, eye infections, and needs heart medication after he suffered a stroke in 2023, while Barbara has been described as 'weak and fragile' Taliban sources have sometimes described their arrest as a 'misunderstanding' and blamed paperwork issues for their incarceration. However, people in the know have told AFP that authorities had concerns that they owned 'non-Islamic' books. In a rare phone call from prison, Peter, who has both Afghan and British citizenship, said his stay in prison was 'the nearest thing to hell'. He claimed he was locked up alongside murderers and was limited to a single meagre daily meal of bread and chickpeas. Peter also said he sleeps on a mattress on the floor, a situation which is reportedly still happening at his current location. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has declassified another tranche of documents about the 2016 elections a day after President Donald Trump accused Barack Obama of 'treason' and called for his predecessor to be investigated. Gabbard ordered the release of September 2020 report by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence on Russia's attempts to influence the 2016 presidential election. Although Trump won that election, he has long railed against what he calls the Russia 'hoax' cooked up by Democrats to try and link his campaign to the foreign adversary. Accusations of collusion with Russia marred his first term in the White House, but Robert Mueller's report didn't find that the Trump campaign or anyone associated with it 'conspired or coordinated with the Russian government.' Trump is now calling for investigations of top Obama national security officials at the time while referring to the ex-president as the leader of a 'gang' out to get him. His push comes amid a growing rift among the MAGA faithful over the adminstration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein saga with demands for the release of more government documents and scrambling by DOJ to conduct new interviews amid allegations of a 'coverup.' The report by the House Intelligence Committee, then chaired by Trump ally Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) found the nation's spies reached 'credible' assessments that Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered 'conventional and cyber influence operations' by leaking hacked emails. But it also disputed an intel assessment, released in 2017, that Putin 'developed a clear preference' for Trump and 'aspired to help his chances of victory.' That conclusion has long infuriated Trump. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has released a 2020 report by the Republican-run House Intel Committee that picks apart a 2017 Intelligence Community assessment of Russian election interference It said these conclusions did not 'adhere to the tenets' of intelligence tradecraft. It says intel officials 'ignored or selectively quoted' reports that undermined assumptions that Putin sought to elect Trump. It found other conclusions to be 'well reasoned, including judgements that 'Putin's principal motivations ... were to advance Moscow's longstanding desire to undermine faith in US democracy, and to weaken from the start what the Russians considered to be an inevitable Clinton presidency.' It also backed the conclusion that Putin held back leaking some compromising material to use against the Clinton Administration after it took office. The declassified report put the onus on Obama and dismissed its composition, calling it a 'high-profile product ordered by the president, directed by senior IC agency heads, and created by just five CIA analysts, using one principal drafter.' Gabbard last week released an initial report accusing Obama of overseeing a 'treasonous conspiracy' against Trump. But critics, including Andrew McCarthy in the conservative National Review, have questioned whether Gabbard even read reports generated by the CIA. CIA Director John Ratcliffe released a report last month with more nuanced conclusions, saying CIA analysts could have 'showed their analytic homework' and included contradictory material like other credible reporting that Putin was 'ambivalent' about his preferences. On Tuesday night at a meeting at the White House with House Republicans, Trump called Gabbard the 'hottest' person in the room. That comes despite indications the pair had a falling out over the recent attack Trump ordered on Iran's nuclear facilities. An anti-interventionist who doubted Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon, Gabbard was reportedly sidelined in the Trump administration's discussions about its options in the ongoing war between Iran and Israel ever since she posted a controversial video showing a simulated 'nuclear annihilation.' But over a month later, the president changed his tune as Gabbard presses for more on Obama's connection to the Russia plot. 'She's like, hotter than everybody ... And she found out that Barack Hussein Obama led a group of people, and they cheated in the elections, and they cheated without question,' Trump told his allies Tuesday night. An Obama office spokesman dismissed Trump's claims as 'bizarre, ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction.' The statement was a rare moment in which Obama felt compelled respond to a Trump attack. President Donald Trump accused Barack Obama of 'treason' and has praised his own Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard Gabbard's testimony on Iran's nuclear program were inconvenient as the administration moved to bomb Iran. But on Tuesday Trump called her the 'hottest' person in the room and said she 'has all the documents' Gabbard appeared on the conservative Newsmax network Tuesday night, and contested the scathing statement by Obama, promising to release further documents. The backdrop for the throwback drama over the 2016 election rather than the 2020 race Trump repeatedly calls 'rigged' remains a series of stunning disclosures about the Jeffrey Epstein case that have rocked the White House and divided the MAGA movement. Sen. Mark Warner, the vice chair of the Senate Intelligence panel, linked the two matters in his own statement. 'It seems as though the Trump administration is willing to declassify anything and everything except the Epstein files,' he said. A plane crash that killed a congresswoman's hunter husband was caused by the aircraft being overloaded with moose meat and the unapproved installation of antlers on the right wing, a report has found. Eugene 'Buzzy' Peltola Jr., 57, was killed nearly two years ago when his plane crashed about 65 miles northeast of the small western Alaska community of St Mary's. The small Piper PA-18 Super Cub had taken off from a remote hunting camp but went down shortly after takeoff on September 12, 2023. Peltola, whose wife Mary Peltola was a congresswoman at the time, was found conscious but died at the scene. He was the only person on board the aircraft. Federal investigators have now revealed the plane was overweight for takeoff and encountered drag from a set of antlers mounted outside, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a report released Tuesday. The avid moose hunter was a former Alaska regional director for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and worked for decades for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. He received his commercial pilot's license in 2004, requiring him to use corrective lenses at all distances, according to an FAA database. His death came almost exactly a year after his wife was sworn in as Alaska's lone US House member, following a special election for the seat. A small plane crash that killed Eugene 'Buzzy' Peltola Jr. was overweight for takeoff and encountered drag from a set of antlers mounted outside, the National Transportation Safety Board has determined Peltola was killed when his small Piper PA-18 Super Cub crashed shortly after takeoff on September 12, 2023, about 65 miles northeast of St Mary's, Alaska Peltola flew the plane above its maximum takeoff weight and affixed a set of moose antlers on the right wing strut that caused a drag, along with turbulent flight conditions in the area, the NTSB report states. Downdrafts, 'along with the overweight airplane and the added drag and lateral weight imbalance caused by the antlers on the right wing, would likely have resulted in the airplane having insufficient power and/or control authority to maneuver above terrain,' the report states. The Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub crashed Sept. 12, 2023, northeast of the small western Alaska community of St Mary's. Peltola had days earlier taken five hunters, a guide and equipment from the community of Holy Cross to an airstrip at St Mary's. The group set up camp next to the runway, which was near hilly terrain and about 70 miles northwest of Holy Cross, the agency said. The day before the crash, the group got a moose and made plans with Peltola, via satellite messaging devices, for him to transport the meat, the NTSB said. On the day of the crash, Peltola had already picked up a load of meat and had returned for another. He did not use scales to weigh the cargo, the agency said. Mary Peltola and her husband Eugene Peltola celebrate after results showed her to be the apparent winner in Alaska's special US House election on August 31, 2022 The Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub crashed Sept. 12, 2023, northeast of the small western Alaska community of St Mary's Two hunters were at the site when the crash occurred and provided aid to Peltola, but he died of his injuries within about two hours. 'Given the remote location of the accident site, which was about 400 miles from a hospital, and accessible only by air, providing the pilot with prompt medical treatment following the accident was not possible,' Tuesday's report states. The agency said carrying antlers on the outside of a plane is a common practice in Alaska but requires formal approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, with a notation in the plane's logbooks. 'There was no evidence that such approval had been granted for the accident airplane,' the report states. Eugene was laid to rest at Bethel Memorial Cemetery in September 2023, where several Alaska bush planes conducted a flyover in a missing man formation. Mary stood nearby stoic and clutching an American flag as loved ones delivered their tributes to her late husband. After the service concluded, the casket was opened for a community viewing and one by one, everyone in attendance waited to say their final goodbyes. Mary Peltola, (pictured with Eugene) was the first Alaska Native in Congress. She won a full, two-year term in November 2022 but lost her reelection bid last November. She has kept a relatively low public profile since then The congresswoman personally thanked everyone as they filed by. Mary Peltola, who is Yup'ik, was the first Alaska Native in Congress. She won a full, two-year term in November 2022 but lost her reelection bid last November. She has kept a relatively low public profile since then. An alleged gang member ordered three pina coladas while he carried out reconnaissance for a 'planned assassination' at a restaurant, a court heard today. A nine-year-old girl was shot in the head outside the Turkish restaurant Evin in Dalston, East London, by a stray bullet aimed at three men. The child, who cannot be named, survived but will suffer 'physical and cognitive difficulties throughout her life' after one of the bullets lodged in her brain. She was eating with her family at the restaurant when a gunman riding a Ducati Monster motorbike opened fire, the Old Bailey heard. The gunman has not been caught, but 33-year-old Javon Riley is on trial charged with four charges of attempted murder on May 29 last year. Riley is said to have carried out extensive reconnaissance ahead of the hit, may have been involved in finding and disposing of the weapon used by the gunman and acted as a getaway driver, it is claimed. Mustafa Kiziltan, Kenan Aydogdu and Nasser Ali were seated in the restaurant when six shots were fired at them. Prosecutor James Mulholland KC described the shooting as a 'planned assassination' in a long running rivalry between the Tottenham Turks and the Hackney Turks. A CCTV image issued by Metropolitan Police of the motorcyclist wanted in connection with the shooting at the restaurant in Dalston, East London, who has never been traced Forensic officers conducting a search outside the restaurant after the shooting in May 2024 DC Martha Bourne today told the jury that Riley used five different phones, including one 'clean' phone to contact his family. He lived with his partner at an address in Tottenham but also rented a flat in Farnborough, Hampshire. The motorcycle used by the gunman was reported stolen on 16 November 2021 from Wentworth Hill in Wembley and later fitted with a false numberplate. DC Bourne said it was a 'loud, powerful' motorbike. Jurors were shown images of a burnt-out Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan Juke found after the shooting. The two cars were reported stolen on May 17, 2024 and were also fitted with false plates. The stolen bike was seen on CCTV moving through Hackney on May 2, 2024, the court heard. Police stand guard outside the scene of the shooting in Dalston, East London, in May last year Police carry out searches in the wake of the shooting near the Turkish restaurant in May 2024 Riley is alleged to have carried out reconnaissance on Evin restaurant in a Range Rover on May 6, 2024, driving past on four separate occasions. DC Bourne said Riley's account was used at a shop opposite the restaurant on that date. She said he also went to German Kraft Beer opposite the restaurant and purchased a hot chocolate with coconut milk, three pina coladas, a Barcardi and an apple juice for 46.85. His table was at the front window of the bar, giving a view of Evin restaurant. Riley, of Green Street, Enfield, denies four counts of attempted murder and an alternative charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent relating to the girl. The trial continues. As Bryan Kohberger is sentenced - listen to Daily Mail's hit new podcast On The Case: The Idaho Murders for a deep dive into all the questions that remain unanswered. Early in the morning of November 13, 2022, four University of Idaho students were found brutally stabbed to death in their off-campus rental home in Moscow, Idaho. The victims were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Maddie and Kaylee, both asleep in Maddies bed, were killed first. It was just after 4am but Xana was still up having ordered a food delivery; he stabbed her next before moving onto kill Ethan where he slept. There were no signs of forced entry - the lock of the door he slipped through was broken - and two other roommates inside the house survived. Weeks later, after an investigation shrouded in secrecy, authorities arrested the then 28-year-old Washington State University criminology Ph.D. student Bryan Kohberger at his family home in Pennsylvania. On July 2nd, Kohberger pled guilty to the murders, as part of a plea deal to avoid the death penalty. His sentencing has been set for Wednesday July 23rd, and he will spend the rest of his life in prison. In this episode of On The Case, Laura Collins, an editor and investigative reporter at the Daily Mail in New York, sits down with Howard Blum, author of the bestselling book on the case:When the Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders. They discuss the story so far, as well as the main, perplexing mystery at the heart of it all - why did Bryan Kohberger do it? For early, ad-free access to every episode of On The Case as well as all our other incredible true crime shows, subscribe to The Crime Desk now. Alternatively, search for On The Case: The Idaho Murders wherever you get your podcasts. Newly released bodycam footage captured the moment a Florida doctor accused of his wife's murder had complained about their four-way relationship with another couple a year before her death. Dr Richard Seith, a well-known ophthalmologist in Stuart, Florida, was seen in the footage from July 2024 being stopped by deputies responding to reports of shots fired at a home. The home belonged to a couple, who have not been identified, that Seith and his ex-wife Cynthia Sciarrone-Seith had been in an 'intimate relationship' with, investigators said. Deputies arrived at the home to find a bullet shattered a window and another pierced a child's bedroom wall, and the couple said Seith drove a distinctive orange Jeep. A deputy spotted Seith driving nearby and was heard in the bodycam saying he was 'exactly who I am looking for.' Seith denied firing the bullets but admitted he was cruising outside the couple's home, looking for his wife. 'I look to see if shes here. Were still married, and I dont approve of it,' he told the deputy in the bodycam footage. A year later on July 15, 2025, cops say that Seith fatally shot his wife outside her condo on Lake Worth, Florida, and he is currently being held in custody without bail. Newly released bodycam footage captured the moment Florida doctor Richard Seith, who is accused of his wife's murder, had complained about their four-way relationship with another couple a year before her death Dr Richard Seith, a well-known ophthalmologist in Stuart, Florida, allegedly shot his ex-wife Cynthia Sciarrone-Seith outside her Florida home earlier this month, which he has pleaded not guilty to In the new footage released this week, Seith was seen in the interaction with a deputy a year ago speaking coldly about his wife being with the couple. Prosecutors say the exchange is evidence of red flags in his relationship with Cynthia some time before he allegedly murdered her, per CBS12. The deputy asked Seith if he had a weapon in the car, questioning: 'I need you to be honest with me now, have you shot any rounds near that house you just drove by?' Seith said that he did but denied having shot it at the couple's home. Despite the bullet holes in the couple's home, deputies were unable to link the bullets to Seith's gun and they let him go from the traffic stop. 'Unfortunately, our deputies didnt have enough to arrest Mr. Seith, and had to give him his gun back,' Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said during a news conference on Tuesday. 'After the interaction with our deputy, he did not continue to drive byand of course, you now know what took place.' Budensiek added that the woman in the home filed for a restraining order the next day, but a judge denied her petition twice, again citing a lack of evidence. In the new footage, a deputy stopped Seith in his distinctive orange Jeep moments after shots were fired at the home of a couple that he and his ex-wife had allegedly been in an 'intimate relationship' with Seith allegedly shot his ex-wife Cynthia Sciarrone-Seith, a flight attendant with Spirit Airlines, in the head outside her home earlier this month when she returned home from a shift Prosecutors allege that the well-known eye doctor used a tracker on his wife's car and was upset by their contentious divorce at the time of her murder Seith remains behind bars after he was arrested earlier this month for allegedly shooting Cynthia, a flight attendant for Spirit Airlines, outside her home. Cynthia was found shot in the head moments after parking her car outside her home on July 15 when she returned from a late-night shift. Cops quickly obtained search warrants for Seith's home and eye clinic, which turned up evidence of guns, ammunition, a silencer, and a kit that turns a handgun into a short-barreled rifle, according to KY3. Cops also found a GPS tracker that Seith had allegedly bought months earlier that prosecutors say he placed on her car to track her movements. Detectives said that records showed Seith then cancelled his subscription to the GPS tracker just three hours after Cynthia was shot dead. Seith claimed that he had not seen his ex-wife since December 2024 and was not in Florida at the time, however detectives said that their investigation found he was stalking her. This included a witness saying she had seen Seith in the area on the night of Cynthia's death. According to prosecutors, the couple had a contentious divorce that was finalized in May, just two months before Cynthia was shot dead According to prosecutors, the couple had a contentious divorce that was finalized in May, just two months before Cynthia was shot dead. They said that Seith had been ordered to pay her $250,000 plus pay off the mortgage on her Lake Worth condo where she was killed. The final payment on the mortgage was due at the end of July, weeks after she was shot. Seith remains in jail without bond, and has pleaded not guilty to her murder. A Connecticut couple is facing charges after allegedly performing sexual acts aboard a JetBlue flight in front of a horrified mother and her two young children. Trista L. Reilly, 43, and Christopher D. Arnold, 42, of Danbury, were arrested Saturday upon arrival at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. They have each been charged with two counts of lewd and lascivious exhibition, a felony. The disturbing incident unfolded on JetBlue Flight 163 from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to Sarasota. According to court documents, a flight attendant was alerted by a mother who reported that Reilly and Arnold were engaged in lewd acts in full view of her children. An affidavit states that after being notified, the flight attendant observed Reilly 'making up and down movements with her head while she was facedown on Mr. Arnold's lap'. The mother also provided a witness statement, noting that Reilly appeared to notice her children watching but that the couple 'didn't stop'. Police were called to the scene as soon as the plane landed, and Reilly and Arnold were taken into custody. A Connecticut couple is facing charges after allegedly performing sexual acts aboard a JetBlue flight, witnessed by a horrified mother and her two young children Trista L. Reilly, 43, and Christopher D. Arnold, 42, of Danbury, were arrested Saturday upon arrival at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport The disturbing incident unfolded on JetBlue Flight 163 from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to Sarasota Both defendants have been released without bail and are scheduled to be arraigned on August 15. 'This behavior is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by JetBlue,' the airline said in a statement to Daily Mail. 'Immediately upon receiving the report, our crewmembers acted swiftly to engage JetBlues security team and law enforcement. 'We are fully cooperating with the investigation and these customers are no longer welcome to fly JetBlue. Daily Mail has reached out to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport for comment. Arnold owns a carpentry and home remodeling company. The couple appear in Facebook photos together as far back as 2016. Since Reilly and Arnold are both over 18, their alleged offense of lewd or lascivious exhibition in the presence of minors is classified as a second-degree felony. If convicted, the couple could face up to 15 years in prison. Beyond potential incarceration, a conviction for lewd or lascivious exhibition can also carry up to 15 years of sex offender probation, a fine of up to $10,000, and a mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. The would also be ineligible for 'gain time' in prison, meaning they would have to serve the entirety of any prison sentence. A powerful 5.3 magnitude earthquake has rocked the Greek holiday hotspot of Crete. The huge quake took place at 4.26 pm local time on Wednesday, with the epicentre around 13 miles off the coast of Antikythera, Greece's Geodynamic Institute said. The tremble, which had a focal depth of 36 miles, was reportedly felt in some parts of the Greek holiday island of Crete, which is popular among British tourists. No casualties have been reported, but locals described how terrified tourists 'jumped out of their sun loungers and asked if this was normal and if there was a fear of a tsunami'. Others described how the tremor made items in their homes move and how they heard loud banging sounds as buildings swayed. One local said that 'it felt like the whole building moved slightly', while another described how they 'heard a rumble' as the 'house shook.' According to Earthquakes.Gr, a 2.6 magnitude quake was detected at around 5.30am this morning, followed by a 2.2 magnitude tremor at 6.40am. The epicentre of all these tremors were located between Antikythera and Crete. A powerful 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck Greece today between the islands of Crete (pictured) and Antikythera Your browser does not support iframes. The Greek island of Antikythera lies just south of the Peloponnese peninsula and northwest of Crete and is a growing tourist destination thanks to its ancient Greek ruins and stunning beaches. Crete, meanwhile, is Greece's largest and one of its most famous islands, drawing in millions of holidaymakers every year. The earthquake off the coast of Greece comes a month after hundreds of firefighters battled raging wildfires off the island of Chios. Towering walls of flames tore through forest and agricultural land on the island, where authoritieS sent firefighting reinforcements from Athens, the northern city of Thessaloniki and the nearby island of Lesbos. Apocalyptic scenes captured in images and videos showed firefighters battling the flames as the wildfires raged on, while thick plumes of black smoke filled the sky. Other footage showed helicopters spraying water over smoke-filled fields. It also comes just five days after a powerful earthquake hit the Italian city of Naples and its surrounding region. Local residents reported hearing a 'roar' and feeling a 'strong tremor' as the 4.6 magnitude quake struck at around 9.15 am last Friday. The epicentre of the earthquake was just off the coast of the highly active Phlegraean Fields, a volcanic caldera west of the city, at a depth of 1.5 miles. Multiple people living nearby in the seaside town of Bagnoli said it 'seemed like a bomb' had gone off when the quake hit. It measured the same magnitude as an earthquake recorded in the region on March 13, the strongest to hit the region in 40 years. 'We rocked a lot... I'm still shaking,' one woman, living in the Vomero district of the city, told La Repubblica. Another local, who lives in the western Fuorigrotta suburb, described the experience as 'terrifying'. Rail traffic has been temporarily suspended in the city, which is home to more than 900,000 people. This is a breaking story, more to follow. 'Shoot me.' So said Ralph Menzies upon being sentenced to death in 1988 and asked which method of execution he preferred. Having since spent nearly four decades on Utah's death row, the 67-year-old murder convict is now scheduled to die on September 5 the way he chose - strapped to a chair with a hood over his face and a target on his heart, then riddled with bullets. Even in Utah, the state that has carried out the vast majority of executions by firing squads, more than 15 years have passed since it last meted out the nation's rarest and most archaic-seeming form of capital punishment. Menzies is a controversial target. He needs a wheelchair to move around and an oxygen tank to breathe. He also has been diagnosed with dementia, which his lawyers say has sharply worsened since last evaluated about a year ago. They are racing the clock to convince a judge that killing a man whom they say no longer understands why he's facing a death sentence would be cruel and unusual punishment. At a hearing today, that judge will consider whether Menzies should undergo another mental evaluation before the execution. The state, meanwhile, is looking for shooters. Ralph Menzies, 67, is creeping towards his death date via firing squad on September 5. Although he chose this when he was sentenced in 1988, his lawyers are scrambling to convince a judge that his worsening health problems and dementia means it would be cruel and unusual for the state to follow through with this method Menzies has been on death row for the murder of 26-year-old Maurine Hunsaker, a gas station attendant he kidnapped and tied to a tree before slitting her throat Since his conviction in 1988, Menzies has been locked up at Utah State Correctional Facility. The judge will consider whether he should undergo another mental evaluation before the execution at a hearing today Utah corrections officials have started forming an eight-member firing squad made up of one group leader, five marksmen and two alternates in case one or two shooters change their minds about taking part. Applications aren't open to just anyone. The state requires applicants to be law enforcement officers certified by the Utah's Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) program. That could mean a small-town cop, a Salt Lake City police sharpshooter or even a prison guard who knows Menzies from having housed and fed him during his decades on death row. Menzies was convicted in 1988 for the murder two years earlier of Maurine Hunsaker, a 26-year-old gas station attendant whom he kidnapped and tied to a tree before slitting her throat. Her son has waited nearly four decades for the sound of gunshots aimed at her killer. Manzies' life would be over in 'mere seconds,' Matt Hunsaker told DailyMail.com - likely far quicker than it took his mother to bleed to death. 'It's time - long past time - to get it over with,' he said. When an inmate is sentenced to death via firing squad, a group of five executioners will lay bullets into him as he's strapped in a chair (pictured) with a hood over his head - one of those shooters will have non-lethal wax bullets in his chamber as a buffer to potential PTSD effects The son of Menzies victim, Matt Hunsaker, told DailyMail.com that he's waited nearly four decades to hear those bullets laying into his mom's killer, saying it's 'long past time' BLOOD ATONEMENT Utah is one of five states along with Idaho, Mississippi, Oklahoma and South Carolina that authorize firing squads as a form of execution. About 42 percent of residents there identify as members of the Church of Latter Day Saints (LDS), or Mormon. Deborah Denno, a Fordham School of Law criminologist who researches execution methods, notes that the faith long taught that in order to atone for an eternal sin, the sinner should be killed in a way that sheds their blood as a sacrificial offering. Although the church has officially repudiated that doctrine, she and other criminal justice experts say blood atonement is still steeped in Mormon culture. That, as they tell it, explains why, in Utah's long history of firing squads, the state has never struggled to find volunteers willing to pull the trigger. 'It is part of Utah's history, the ethos there,' Denno said. Utah corrections officials aren't advertising to fill the eight spots on Manzies' firing squad. They're relying instead on their relationships with local law enforcement agencies. 'Honestly, we don't have to put the word out because it's known,' spokesman Glen Mills said. Although Mills wouldn't specify how many people have applied since a judge issued Menzies' execution warrant on July 9, he did say, 'We've had interest.' Deborah Denno, a Fordham School of Law criminologist who researches execution methods, said Utah's somewhat controversial preference for a firing squad traces back to Mormon roots as blood atonement is still steeped in the culture The Church of Latter Day Saints belief in blood atonement is why Utah never struggles to find volunteers for firing squads (Pictured: Salt Lake City Utah Temple). Although, its been more than 15 years since the last execution using this method Jared Garcia told reports last week that members on the firing squad need to undergo a psychological evaluation. They also need to test their shooting skills He noted it hasn't been decided whether members of Menzies' firing squad would be paid, and, if so, how much. Applicants first will be tested for their shooting skills. They're required to hit a small target the size of the one that will be pinned above Menzies' heart from a distance of at least 21 feet. Failure to do so will disqualify them. They'll then undergo psychological evaluations. 'We will want to make sure that there are people who are, first of all, mentally prepared to participate in this type of assignment, as you can imagine, it shouldn't be taken lightly,' Jared Garcia, the department's executive director, told reporters last week. Those chosen for Menzies' squad will have to attend at least three shooting practices and run-throughs similar to those organized before Utah's last execution - that of rape and murder convict Taberon Honie last summer by lethal injection, the state's primary method of carrying out the death penalty. 'It's really important that we have everything down and handle it in a professional manner,' Mills said. Under state policy, only four of Menzies' shooters would shoot live rounds, with the fifth shooting non-lethal wax bullets. None would be told beforehand which type of cartridges had been loathed into their state-owned 30-caliber rifle, the kind used to hunt deer in Utah. Under state policy, only four of Menzies' shooters would shoot live rounds, with the fifth shooting non-lethal wax bullets - none of them will know who has these bullets Blank rounds have long been used by firing squads as a way to 'diffuse responsibility,' easing shooters' psychological burden by allowing each to rationalize that they may not have caused the death. In her research, Denno hasn't been able to interview any firing squad members because their names are withheld from the public and faces hidden behind firing walls, as would be the case with Menzies' execution. Still, she said the effects of taking part in a firing squad can be similar to soldiers fighting in combat situations. Shooters can experience long-term distress including insomnia, panic attacks and suicidal thoughts after killing a convict. The state sanctioned gun used for executions is a 30-caliber rifle, the kind used to hunt deer in Utah 'MY GOD! THEY'VE MISSED IT!' If his execution warrant is carried out, Menzies' would be the third prisoner in the U.S. to face a firing squad this year after a 15-year spell with no executions by shooting anywhere in the country. Touted by proponents as swift and relatively painless, the method nevertheless has a history of gory mistakes when shooters miss their target, according to the Death Penalty Information Center. Wallace Wilkerson, convicted of killing a man during a cribbage game, showed up drunk and with a lit cigar in hand to his execution in Utah in 1879. He reportedly shifted slightly just before the firing squad shot and missed his heart. One witness said he fell to the ground, groaning, 'My God! They've missed it,' before dying 15 excruciating minutes later. Likewise, during the execution of Eliseo Mares in 1951, also in Utah, firing squad members all shot into the right, rather than left side of his chest, missing his heart and forcing him to endure an agonizing death as he slowly bled out. By far Utah's best-known execution by firing squad was that of Gary Gilmore, who admitted to killing a gas station manager and motel manager, both in Utah, on two consecutive nights in 1976. Death via gunfire is viewed as archaic because there is the possibility of the squad missing, such was the case with the execution of Wallace Wilkerson (left) in 1879 and Eliseo Mares (right) in 1951 Utah's best-known execution by firing squad was that of Gary Gilmore, who admitted to killing a gas station manager and motel manager, both in Utah, on two consecutive nights in 1976 The execution chair that Gilmore was killed in. His life and execution inspired the Tommy Lee Jones movie The Executioner's Song His life and 1977 execution were the subject of the 1982 TV movie starring Tommy Lee Jones based on Norman Mailer's best-selling book, The Executioner's Song. Gilmore's story gained resonance at the time because he was the first person executed in the US after an almost ten-year federal moratorium on capital punishment. From 1976, when the US Supreme Court reimplemented the death penalty, through 2024, two other US convicts besides Gilmore were put to death via firing squad, both in Utah. John Albert Taylor chose the method for his 1996 execution, as did Ronnie Lee Gardner for his in 2010. Gardner cited his 'Mormon heritage' - meaning blood atonement - as his reason for picking the bloody way to die. John Albert Taylor chose the method of death via gunfire for his 1996 execution Ronnie Lee Gardner also chose this way to die citing his 'Mormon heritage' 'BETTER' EXECUTION METHODS? A rise in gun-related street violence, police killings and suicides in the late 20th century caused firing squads to fall from favor as an acceptable way to carry out death sentences. The method was too violent, argued policy makers looking for a seemingly more civilized way to get the job done. Lethal injection - a combination that usually includes a sedative, a paralytic, and a drug to stop the heart - became the method of choice among most states that still authorized the death penalty after the moratorium was lifted. 'Most people want to think that the person is being executed in a peaceful way, and they're not going to feel pain and won't be terrified,' Denno said. But, as with firing squads and other death penalty methods such as lethal gas and electrocution, many executions by lethal injections have been botched. The drugs can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, creating a feeling that one is suffocating or drowning. They can also trigger other kinds of prolonged suffering while witnesses look on, horrified. Some families have said the gruesome sight of watching their loved ones' killers writhe in pain retraumatized them. Trying to distance themselves from the string of hideous blunders, several drug companies stopped selling the components needed for lethal injections, leading states once again on the morbid search for a 'better' execution method. A string of law journal articles in the 2010s encouraged legal scholars and corrections departments to reconsider firing squads. Lethal injection - a combination that usually includes a sedative, a paralytic, and a drug to stop the heart - became the method of choice among most states that still authorized the death penalty, but it still encounters error when it comes to prisoners dying ethically South Carolina has executed two death row inmates by firing squad since the turn of the year (PICTURED: A firing squad left and an electric chair right at the South Carolina Department of Corrections) Brad Sigmon, 67, was executed by firing squad on March 7 in South Carolina Momentum grew in 2017 when Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in an opinion that, 'In addition to being near instant, death by shooting may also be comparatively painless.' Denno also has embraced the idea, saying death by firing squad stands out as the 'least inhumane' method of execution. Death penalty opponents dispute that position, arguing that the legal research it's based on ignores medical research and common sense - that death by shooting is excruciatingly painful. Even if bullets directly hit prisoners' hearts, medical experts have said they undergo at least 30 seconds of agony. As defense lawyers and people seeking to abolish the death penalty say, there is no such thing as a clean execution. In 2015, Utah passed a law allowing for execution by firing squad if the drugs used in lethal injections are unavailable. Other states have followed in the years since. Idaho whose population is about 26 percent Mormon, in March became the only state where death by firing squad is the primary form of execution. After a long string of botched executions by lethal injection, South Carolina used a firing squad to execute murder convict Brad Sigmon on March 7 this year and Mikal Mahdi, also a convicted murderer, on April 11. Mikal Mahdi, 42, was executed by firing squad on April 11. His attorney claimed the execution was botched and he suffered an excruciating death The autopsy of Brad Sigmon, who was killed by firing squad in South Carolina in March, showed three distinct bullet wounds and his heart was obliterated (above) An autopsy showed that none of the bullets hit Mahdi's heart directly, as was supposed to happen. Instead, the wounds damaged his liver and other internal organs and allowed his heart to keep beating. Pathologists said the injuries likely caused him pain and suffering while he was still conscious. Given how close Mahdi's shooters were to him, Denno said it seems that they 'intentionally botched' his execution, potentially setting back to states' movement to return to death by gunfire. For that reason, she added, 'I'm surprised that Utah is going ahead' with Menzies. A Sydney man has been threatened with jail after failing to clean up an illegal waste dump on his property. Saviour Camilleri has been pursued by Fairfield City Council since 2006 for hoarding at two properties in Horsley Park, about 39km from CBD. He was given 'one final chance' on on Thursday to clear the waste or face a $45,000 fine for being in contempt of court. Mr Camilleri was found to have hoarded numerous items including building materials, trucks, scrap metal, shopping trolleys, baths and sinks. He was ordered to remove the items by Justice John Robson in the NSW Land and Environment Court, but was told he can keep one working tractor. Fairfield City Council began investigating Mr Camilleri after neighbours began noticing the pile up of rubbish in 2004. The council first took him to court in 2016 over 'unlawful storage of waste' and breaching planning laws. He faced subsequent court appearances after ignoring court orders to clean up the waste. Saviour Camilleri has been pursued by Fairfield City Council over an illegal waste dump and on Thursday was ordered to remove several items Justice John Robson in the NSW Land and Environment Court told Mr Camilleri he can keep one working tractor on this property On Thursday, the court found him guilty of contempt for 'disobeying or otherwise failing to comply' with court orders from November 2022 relating to his Burley Road property, reported The Sydney Morning Herald. He was handed a $45,000 fine, but told the payment would be suspended if he safely removed several waste materials, disposing of them at the correct facility and sharing the receipts with the council. Fairfield City Council had been looking for a suspended prison sentence following Mr Camilleri's previous guilty pleas over his other land. The council argued Mr Camilleri 'taken no steps towards complying with the court orders' and 'it was likely' he would reoffend. It was also argued a jail sentence could be suspended in order to provide Mr Camilleri with 'one final chance' to clean up the Horsley Park property. At the latest hearing, on April 4, Mr Camilleri represented himself with help from his partner Diane Borg. Mr Camilleri told the court he wanted to 'carry on' with his life, had lost work and 'was kind of broke'. Neighbours complained to the council when Mr Camilleri's waste became visible from outside the property However, he also accepted he had 'disobeyed' earlier court orders. Mr Camilleri disagreed with the council over the waste material on his land, arguing he needed 'gates and fencing stuff' for animals on his land. The judge said Mr Camilleri's breach of court orders involved 'deliberate defiance', but stated a prison sentence was a 'last resort'. Mr Camilleri was ordered to remove the 'waste materials' by August 14. If he fails to do so, the council will have the authority to enter the property from the following day to begin the clean-up operation within three months. Fairfield City Council would then send Mr Camilleri the bill. The father of a nine-year-old girl facing murder charges over her death was spotted running through a hill by a witness after allegedly killing his daughter and hiding her body. Melina Frattolin was reported missing on Saturday by her father Luciano Frattolin, who told police his child was abducted by someone in a white van in upstate New York. Her body was later found underneath a log in a shallow section of a pond near Ticonderoga, having died by drowning. State Police say her father, a Canadian CEO, faked the missing report and is facing a second-degree murder charge, as well as concealment of a human corpse. He has pleaded not guilty. Ticonderoga resident Rebecca Kulickowski had tipped police off after saying she spotted a man she thinks was Luciano sprinting through a hilly section of woodland on Saturday night. She told News10: 'It only caught my eye because as I was driving past the car, I seen a skinny tall guy. And he was running up a hill that he was parked next to and there was wooded area on the bottom of it. 'I just didnt feel right, there was something about him, I dont know, our eyes locked when I drove by, he looked at me.' After waking up the next day to an Amber Alert over the disappearance of Melina, she immediately called the cops to explain what she had saw. Melina Frattolin was reported missing on Saturday by her father Luciano Frattolin, who told police his child was abducted in upstate New York Luciano is said to have been spotted running through an uphill area on Saturday night, hours before authorities released an amber alert for his missing daughter State Police said they had received over 700 tips from the public after the initial alert was issued. As part of their investigation, they also released pictures of Luciano's vehicle, a grey 2024 Toyota Prius, as they asked for help in gathering more evidence. Captain Robert McConnell said her father, who lives in Montreal, Canada, killed the girl on Saturday night while they were on vacation close to the picturesque town of Lake George, located in the Adirondacks region of New York. The father and daughter were both in America legally after starting their vacation on July 11. They were due to return to their native Quebec on Sunday. The horror unfolded on Saturday night, when Luciano called the local Warren County Sheriff's Office claiming that two men in a white van had abducted his daughter. Police soon became suspicious of Luciano's story on what happened just before locating her body around 2pm Sunday. He is being held at the Essex County Correctional Facility and was spotted in a white prison jumpsuit and shackles while being hauled into Ticonderoga Town Court on Monday. Captain McConnell said Frattolin's mother, who has been estranged from Luciano since 2019, was expecting her daughter to be returned to her home in Montreal on Sunday. Police released pictures of Luciano's vehicle, a grey 2024 Toyota Prius, as they asked for help in gathering more evidence He is being held at the Essex County Correctional Facility and was spotted in a white prison jumpsuit and shackles while being hauled into Ticonderoga Town Court on Monday The nine-year-old resided full time with her mother and her father visited without limitations. He also had zero criminal record, McConnell said. Surveillance footage from 5.30pm on Sunday showed Frattolin's final moments as she was seen with her father in Saratoga Springs. At 6.30pm, she phoned her mother and told her that she and her father were on their way back to Canada. 'The child appeared to be in good health and did not indicate she was under any duress,' McConnell said. 'The investigation has determined sometime after Melina's phone call with her mother and sometime before Mr Frattolin's 911 call, he allegedly murdered Melina and left her body in a remote area where she was later discovered by law enforcement.' Captain McConnell said Luciano initially told cops that his child was kidnapped on the highway near Lake George when he pulled over to urinate in the woods. When her body was found, detectives said there was no evidence she was ever abducted, and detectives said there was 'no threat to the public' The alleged killer dad said he turned around to find his daughter was no longer in their car, and he saw 'a suspicious white van' fleeing the scene. He later added that 'two unknown males forced' Frattolin into the vehicle. But when her body was found, detectives said there was no evidence she was ever abducted, and detectives said there was 'no threat to the public.' McConnell expressed his condolences to the family. 'This is certainly a difficult case and a heartbreaking investigation,' he said. Prior to her death, Frattolin's father gushed about her online, calling her the 'light of his life' and sharing pictures and videos of their 'father daughter' time. Luciano is the founder of an organic coffee brand called Gambella, according to the product's website. 'Luciano Frattolin is an experienced entrepreneur with a proven track record of building diverse, high-performance businesses,' the website read. President Donald Trump's MAGA supporters have a new target for their fury: his CIA director John Ratcliffe. And it's all because of Barack Obama. Ratcliffe, who served as the director of the Office of National Intelligence (ODNI) in Trump's first administration, is one of the president's most loyal supporters. But now MAGA supporters are asking why he didn't originally declassify the documents tied to the investigation of Russia's role in the 2016 election that were released last week. Criticism arose after Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's current intel chief, released a report that accused Obama of being behind a 'treasonous conspiracy' to allege Russia interfered in the 2020 election on Trump's behalf. Now MAGA supporters are furious that this did not come to light earlier. 'Wait! The current CIA director John Ratcliffe had the position of ODNI in the first Trump administration. Why didn't he declassify the documents proving the Russian collusion corruption by the Obama cabal that Tulsi Gabbard has now made public?,' Trump loyalist Roger Stone wrote on X. The CIA noted Ratcliffe was involved with the release of the House report and is committed to truth and tranparency. 'CIA Director Ratcliffe strongly supports the public release of HPSCIs report, which was the result of a process initiated by CIA and led by DNI Gabbard,' a CIA spokesperson told Daily Mail. 'This effort reflects Director Ratcliffes continued commitment to elevating the truth and bringing transparency to the American people and would not have been possible without his directive to return it to the committee.' President Donald Trump's supporters are furious that a report on Russian interference in the 2016 election did not come to light earlier But in Trump's first term, Ratcliffe did release some documents tied to the Russia investigation, including a CIA memo that revealed Hillary Clinton had approved a plan to publicly tie Trump to the country's hack of the Democratic National Committee. At that time, Trump was running against Joe Biden for a second term in the White House - a contest he would ultimately lose. His campaign seized upon Ratcliffe's move as new evidence that Clinton was in a scheme to discredit Trump, who refers to the matter as the 'Russia hoax.' Additionally, in this Trump term, Ratcliffe and Gabbard have declassified information to allege Obama administration officials manipulated intelligence and conspired to undermine the legitimacy of Trump's win in 2016. And, earlier this month Ratcliffe released an internal CIA review of its Russia investigation, which found the agency failed in some cases to follow standard procedures. Ratcliffe, a longtime Trump loyalist, argued the review showed that Democratic appointees who led the agency at the time 'manipulated intelligence and silenced career professionals all to get Trump.' Gabbard added fuel to the fire on Friday when she released a 114-page document that she says shows the Obama administration was aware that there was no threat of Russia 'directly' manipulating the vote in 2016. 'Their goal was to subvert the will of the American people and enact what was essentially a years-long coup with the objective of trying to usurp the President from fulfilling the mandate bestowed upon him by the American people,' Gabbard said in a statement. She called for an investigation into and potential criminal prosecution of anyone who took part which may include Obama and James Comey, the former FBI director. CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in the Situation Room of the White House in June 2025 Obama fired back at the 'bizarre allegations' coming from Trump. His office dismissed the claims as another example of the constant 'nonsense and misinformation' that emanates out of the White House. 'Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes,' his post-presidency office said in a statement. The documents revealed insider discussions among top Obama officials about Russia's much-debated role in the 2016 U.S. elections. Trump latched on to them and issued an extraordinary call to investigate the former president accusing his predecessor of 'treason.' 'After what they did to me, whether it's right or wrong, it's time to go after people,' Trump said in the Oval Office on Tuesday. Former President Barack Obama has dismissed claims he tried to manipulate the 2016 election President Trump accused his Democratic rivals of organizing a failed 'coup' in 2016, when Trump defeated Hillary Clinton and captured the White House. 'They tried to rig the election and they got caught and there should be really severe consequences,' he said. Trump has long argued that the FBI counterintelligence probe that began during the 2016 election was the start of a 'coup' to prevent him from taking office. But a bipartisan Senate investigation in 2020 found that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. One of the leaders of that probe was Marco Rubio, who was a senator on the intelligence committee at the time and now serves as Trump's secretary of state. Lawyers for a nurse suspended after complaining about sharing a changing room with a trans medic have accused a group of senior doctors of hiding an email in a bid to conceal alleged wrongdoing. Sandie Peggie, 51, is suing NHS Fife and Dr Beth Upton after she was suspended for confronting the trans doctor when she was made to change next to her in a female-only changing room. Yesterday lawyers for Ms Peggie claimed that a consultant in emergency medicine at the hospital had failed to hand over a seriously embarrassing email to the tribunal. Naomi Cunningham KC claimed Dr Kate Searle failed to hand over the email which showed an alleged attempt to set up and coordinate a group of witnesses in the investigation into complaints made against Ms Peggie. The accusation came as Dr Searle - the senior medic who supervised Dr Beth Upton and helped complete a report following the incident between the trans doctor and Ms Peggie - gave evidence to the tribunal in Dundee. On Tuesday Dr Searle denied deliberately concealing an email sent between six potential witnesses discussing an investigation into Ms Peggie. During cross-examination, Dr Searle was asked about a number of emails, including one to six respondents referring to a small need to know group to help avoid foot in mouth syndrome. Ms Cunningham KC said there was something a bit odd going on here as there were separate chains with the same subject line, which looked as if they were connected but she said there were earlier messages in the chain which appeared to have been deleted. Dr Kate Searle discussed reporting Sandie Peggie to police after the nurse questioned Dr Beth Upton's presence in a female-only changing room Veteran nurse Sandie Peggie is suing NHS Fife and Dr Beth Upton Dr Beth Upton told her line-manager nurse Sandie Peggie had told her 'she was not a woman' Ms Cunningham KC said an email looked as if it had not been submitted to the tribunal when it should have been, and there was a further email that should have appeared at the bottom of a chain that was for some reason, chopped off. But on the face of this email, it is quite understandable, isnt it, why those involved in that small need to know group might have preferred not to have it looked at in the course of this tribunal, the lawyer said. She added that the email was seriously embarrassing to NHS Fife and Dr Upton. She said: It talks about a live investigation. It says in terms that Esther [Davidson, Ms Peggies supervisor], who a few days earlier and then again until the end of February is going to be the investigator, it says in terms Esther cannot do it, as she has been involved in the discussions with Sandie previously. It appears to be an intention to set up and coordinate a group of people who should not be talking about this investigation to each other because they are witnesses. It says in terms this information must not be shared with anyone outside this group, and it talks about the risk of foot in mouth syndrome. It is in itself, quite a serious case of foot in mouth syndrome, isnt it? Dr Searle said she could appreciate that in hindsight, we should not have written these things in a group email to witnesses. And having done that, everybody involved in that chain had quite good reason to prefer that it shouldnt see the light of day, argued Ms Cunningham. Dr Searle responded: I cannot comment whether this email was withheld. I dont think you can prove that these two emails are linked. And when we were all asked by the IT department to do a thorough search of our emails, we did so, and this email was produced. Ms Cunningham said: But you were asked to do some degree of search of emails on the previous trawls, and this email wasnt produced. Was it? You didnt produce it in time for the first part of this hearing, in response to the January 3 order. Ms Cunningham said there were six people copied on the email. She asked if all those copied in had agreed between them that none of them would produce it. Absolutely not, Dr Searle replied. Ms Cunningham said: I would suggest to you that you deliberately defied an order of the tribunal to conceal your own wrongdoing and that of your colleagues. I absolutely do not agree with that, Dr Searle said. If you had done that, it would be dishonest. Wouldnt it? Ms Cunningham asked. It would be dishonest to do that, and I am a doctor who acts as honestly as I can at all times. She agreed that it would be an issue for the regulator if she, as a doctor, had not acted with honesty and integrity. Hearings, in Dundee, continue. A toddler has plunged to her death from a slide after slipping from her father's arms. The horrific incident happened at a water park in Lopar, Croatia, on Tuesday afternoon. According to local media, the girl from Germany, aged 21 months, is said to have sustained severe injuries after falling from a height as she and her father descended from the slide. Other tourists who witnessed the incident said her father desperately called out for help, saying: 'Don't ask me anything... my daughter is dying.' Emergency services arrived at the scene and secured a landing spot for an air ambulance, which took the child to KBC Rijeka. Upon arrival, doctors immediately began intensive care. However, despite the medic's best effort, she succumbed to her injuries, which were described as serious by local media. The head of the pediatric clinic, Dr Iva Bilic Cace, confirmed her death and explained: 'Numerous serious bodily injuries, including injuries to the brain and internal organs, have been verified. The tragic incident happened at Lopar in Croatia on Tuesday afternoon 'Despite timely care and all the measures taken, unfortunately, it was not possible to save the child's life.' An investigation has now been launched into the death of the child. Police are probing whether there was a defect in the slide, which had been marked as safe to use with children. They are also hoping to determine whether all safety measures were met. According to Riportal, the owner of the water park, Josip Ivanic, refused to comment on the incident. The head of MI5 has issued an unprecedented warning that terrorists are seeking to recruit children over the summer holidays after record arrests of teenagers. Sir Ken McCallum appealed to parents today warning online offenders will exploit the school break to draw children into criminal acts, saying just a few short clicks can pull young people down a dangerous and potentially life-changing path. The advisory issued for the first time jointly by MI5, Counter Terrorism Policing and the National Crime Agency comes after a record number of teenage arrests for terrorism offences. The Director General of MI5 said: In 2024 I said that 13 per cent of all those investigated by MI5 for involvement in terrorism were under 18. That deeply concerning presence of young people in our casework continues to this day. In a few short clicks, young people can be speaking to dangerous radicalising terrorists online, consuming violent and extremist content. Terrorists who understand online culture are using slick propaganda to pull young people down a dangerous and potentially life-changing path. Of the 219 arrests for terrorism-related offences in 2023, a record 42 suspects were aged 17 or under. Sir Ken McCallum has appealed to parents warning online offenders will exploit the school break to draw children into criminal acts Of the 219 arrests for terrorism-related offences in 2023, a record 42 suspects were aged 17 or under Last year there were 39 youngsters arrested aged 17 or under. Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) is increasingly seeing children being routinely exposed and completely desensitised to extreme and obscene content. Experts fear children will be viewing terrorism content, sexual violence, self-harm and suicide content, extreme gore, animal cruelty and indecent images of children during the summer holidays. CTP senior national coordinator for Prevent and pursue, Vicki Evans, said: Unfortunately, every year, we arrest children for terrorism offences, which tend to come about after they are led down the wrong path by extremists seeking to use the internet to target those whose age makes them vulnerable, or as a result of accessing harmful abhorrent content online. A significant proportion of their parents were unaware of their childs online activity - who they talked to, the content they viewed, and the sites and platforms they used. With the summer holidays now under way and children spending more time online, were asking parents and carers to have conversations with the young people in their lives about what they are doing online and who they are speaking to. None of my colleagues started working in counter terrorism thinking they would be investigating and arresting children as young as 12 for terrorism offences. The online environment can be a sanctuary for children to socialise and form strong bonds but for all the benefits it brings, the internet has also globalised extremism. It has accelerated the spread of hateful ideologies internationally and made it possible for anyone with an internet connection to reach into the lives of children halfway round the world. The Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matthew Ward said: We know parents care deeply about keeping their children safe online and given the ever-developing digital world it can feel like an uphill battle. We want parents to empower their children to know what to do if they come across inappropriate content online. National Crime Agency Director of Threat Leadership Alexander Murray said: There is a fast-growing threat from sadistic and violent online gangs, made up predominantly of teenage boys, dedicated to inflicting harm and committing a range of criminality which includes fraud, cyber, child sexual abuse, violence and extremism/terror related offences. They are international and operate across multiple channels, including messaging apps, gaming platforms and other online forums. We are working closely with our partners in response to this complex threat, but we recommend that adults take time to understand the online lives of young people to help prevent them falling victim to these networks. This is the horrifying moment a small plane nosedived and crashed into a busy motorway in Italy leaving at least two people dead. Footage captured the moment the plane smashed into the road in Italy's Brescia province and exploded into a fireball, with vehicles forced to drive through the flames. The aircraft was completely destroyed, with no one on board surviving the accident. The pair killed were a 75-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman, according to reports. They are understood to have departed from the town of Gragnano Trebbiense. Two motorists were reportedly injured when the plane exploded and were treated at a nearby hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. An inferno ripped through the site of the crash, leading to the suspension of traffic on the A21 motorway junction between Corda Molle and Ospitale. Emergency services rushed to the scene, while firefighters contained the blaze. An investigation has been launched to establish the cause of the tragedy. At least two people were killed today when a small jet nosedived and crashed into a busy motorway in Brescia, northern Italy Footage captured the horrifying moment in which the plane smashed into the road and exploded into a fireball The aircraft was completely destroyed, with no one on board surviving the accident Meanwhile, the public prosecutor's office of Brescia has opened a case for manslaughter following, local newspaper Giornale di Brescia reported. The horrific accident comes just days after an air force fighter jet crashed into a school in Bangladesh and killed 31 people, at least 25 of them children. The children, many aged under 12, were about to return home from class on Monday when the Chinese-manufactured F-7 BGI Bangladesh Air Force jet ploughed into their school in Dhaka and burst into flames, trapping pupils in the fire and debris. The military said it had suffered mechanical failure. Television footage showed fire and smoke billowing from the site of the crash as bystander are seeing trying put out the flames. Other clips circulating on social media show crowds of students fleeing from the scene in a panic. It also comes a little over a month after an Air India plane crashed on top of a medical college hostel in neighbouring India's Ahmedabad city, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 on the ground, marking the world's worst aviation disaster in a decade. Two motorists were treated in hospital for their injuries The horrific accident comes just days after an air force fighter jet crashed into a school in Bangladesh and killed 31 people, at least 25 of them children Firefighters work to remove the wreckage from a building, after an air force training aircraft crashed into Milestone College campus, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 21, 2025 A preliminary report into the crash found that fuel switches for the engines of the doomed Boeing 787 Dreamliner began to lose thrust and sink down moments after setting of to London from the Indian city on June 12. In the flight's final moments, one pilot was heard on the cockpit voice recorder asking the other why he cut off the fuel. 'The other pilot responded that he did not do so,' the report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) said. It did not identify which remarks were made by the flight's captain and which by the first officer, nor which pilot immediately transmitted the distress call: 'Thrust not achieved... falling... Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!' Seconds later the jet began losing height and exploded into a fireball after smashing into a hostel on the ground in Gujarat, claiming the lives of all but one passenger on board and 19 people on the ground. A remarkable 19th century painting has been miraculously found hidden away in a storage closet at a closed-down seafood restaurant. People cleaning out the space discovered the 1844 oil painting of John Beale Davidge, a historic surgeon who became known to locals after a deadly yellow fever outbreak plagued Baltimore in 1797. He then went on to teach courses in medicine before founding the College of Medicine of Maryland, now the University of Maryland School of Medicine, in 1807. The work of art was stumbled upon on May 29 inside Bertha's Mussels, an eatery in Fells Point that was shut down in 2023, according to a July 15 news release from the university. Though the painting once 'hung on Bertha's walls,' it eventually became forgotten and locked in an abandoned closet until Carolyn Brownley, who was helping clean that day, discovered the relic. Brownley immediately contacted her good friend Meg Fielding, the director of the History of Maryland Medicine at MedChi, about the find before it was donated and rehoused to the medical school. Larry Pitrof, the executive director of the Medical Alumni Association of the University of Maryland, compared the painting to Mona Lisa - the highest-valued artwork ever according to the Guinness World Records with a $1 billion price tag. 'This is the only portrait of Davidge that were aware of that exists. It is certainly the oldest. Until another one shows up, this is our Mona Lisa,' Pitrof told The Baltimore Sun. The 1844 oil painting of John Beale Davidge was found inside a storage closet at a vacant seafood restaurant on May 29. (Pictured: Meg Fielding holding the piece of art) Davidge, a historic surgeon, taught courses in medicine before founding the College of Medicine of Maryland, now the University of Maryland School of Medicine (pictured), in 1807. After finding the historic piece, Brownley texted Fielding, telling her: 'This painting was found among the many relics as we were cleaning out Berthas in preparation for the foreclosure auction,' the Baltimore Fishbowl reported. 'Seems like something that should have a home in the medical archives somewhere. He was quite a guy! founder of the University of Maryland School of Medicine after whom Davidge Hall is named.' Despite sitting in the closet for centuries, when Fielding got her eyes on the painting, fitted with a plaque bearing Davidge's name, she said it was in good condition and only needed a proper cleaning. 'This is such a Baltimore story,' Fielding told The Baltimore Sun. 'I knew who it was right away.' Fielding immediately rushed to tell Pitrof what was discovered, leaving him in 'disbelief.' 'I knew she knew what she had, but I was still in disbelief,' he recalled. 'I had a look at him, and I was like, "Oh my goodness gracious, Meg! How did you come upon this thing?"' According to Pirtof, the newly discovered painting is 'probably' the oldest surviving portrait of the school's founder and first dean. Days after it was spotted, Fielding purchased the painting for an undisclosed amount from Tony Norris, the former owner of Bertha's Mussels - a restaurant only two miles from Davidge Hall (pictured) The painting had a plaque bearing Davidge's name (pictured) Days after it was spotted, Fielding purchased the painting for an undisclosed amount from Tony Norris, the former owner of Bertha's Mussels - a restaurant only two miles from Davidge Hall. In 1807, Dr. Davidge decided to construct a small building on the campus where he and his colleagues, Dr. James Cooke and Dr. John Shaw, to hold lectures and educate students. It was there that they also performed dissections, something that was considered a 'danger' at the time, per the Medical Alumni Association for the University of Maryland. 'There was danger in teaching anatomy during this time because of the public outcry that usually occurred whenever the act of dissecting cadavers was discovered,' the website detailed. Rage grew so much, that just after a week of opening the doors to the building, 'a riot broke out resulting in complete destruction of the edifice.' That same day, 'resolution establishing the new medical school was introduced in the Maryland General Assembly,' the site read. Davidge was born in Annapolis, about 50 minutes outside of Baltimore, in 1768. He died at the age of 61 in 1829. He was the son of John Davidge, a former captain in the British Army. When he was young, his single mom tried to get him to become a cabinet maker, but he dreamed of being in the medical field. He was so passionate about becoming a doctor that Davidge financed his educations by 'obtaining aid from friends and coming into possession of some slaves through the death of a relative,' according to mdhistoryonline.net, a page that details the history of medicine in the state from 1752-1920. In 1807, Dr. Davidge decided to construct a small building on the campus where he and his colleagues, Dr. James Cooke and Dr. John Shaw, to hold lectures and educate students Davidge owned eight slaves, per the University of Maryland, Baltimore's 1807 Commission on Slavery and Racism. 'We don't know what happened to his slaves or whether he eventually freed them,' Pitrof stated. 'We didnt find evidence in his last will and testament that he owned any slaves at the time of his death.' During the yellow fever epidemic in Baltimore, Davidge stunned locals after he decided to stay and treat affected patients. 'No one knew where yellow fever came from. Doctors like everyone else died from yellow fever, and doctors like everyone else fled for the hills. But not John Davidge,' Pitrof said. 'He had a theory that yellow fever wasnt contagious, which turned out to be true. The common mosquito was the culprit. He stayed in Baltimore and treated patients with yellow fever and was a calming presence in the city.' He said the painting is currently on view inside the Davidge Building, but it will soon be removed temporarily when renovations take over on the building's interior. 'The painting is stunning. Make no mistake, there will be a prominent location for it once the building reopens,' Pitrof added. An LBC radio presenter has apologised for reading out a listener's message claiming Jewish children in Britain are taught to view Arabs as 'cockroaches to be crushed'. James O'Brien sparked fury for reading the antisemitic comments without challenging them while discussing the conflict in Gaza during yesterday's programme. The 53-year-old host was allegedly sent the message from someone called Chris in Oxford who said his wife had been taught at a 'Shabbat school' in Hertfordshire. The listener claimed she was also told 'one Jewish life is worth thousands of Arab lives'. Mr O'Brien read out the message before a shortened version was shared by LBC on social media, then deleted after a furious backlash from Jewish organisations. The Campaign Against Antisemitism said it was a 'modern blood libel on national radio', and communications regulator Ofcom has received a number of complaints. When reading out the message yesterday, Mr O'Brien said: 'I'm fascinated by objectivity, which is why I'm going to read out this from Chris, because you do find yourself wondering how people can be looking at the same world you're looking at and arriving at such completely different conclusions. 'The polling we looked at in Ha'aretz, displaying support not just for ethnic cleansing, but also for genocide, on levels that many of us would find terrifying. 'And of course it's not confined, as Chris writes from Oxford "I'm loving the show" thank you, Chris "and the high quality of callers today, but I do think it's worth saying that these warped views are not just an Israeli problem. '"My wife was brought up Jewish and at Shabbat school in a leafy Hertfordshire town she was taught that one Jewish life is worth thousands of Arab lives, and that Arabs are cockroaches to be crushed. LBC radio presenter James O'Brien has apologised for reading out the message yesterday Palestinians carry sacks of flour unloaded from a humanitarian aid convoy in Gaza today '"Whilst young children are being taught such hatred and dehumanisation, undoubtedly on both sides" as Chris points out "then they will always be able to justify death and cruelty, and it does indeed start young. '"There is a danger perhaps that we only ever hear one side of the dehumanisation and propaganda processes."' A shortened version of this was then shared by LBC in a social media video post, with the caption: '"At Shabbat school, my wife was taught that one Jewish life is worth a thousand Arab lives". Listener Chris outlines to James O'Brien the "danger" of "propaganda processes" spreading.' What did James O'Brien say on LBC? Original broadcast yesterday 'I'm fascinated by objectivity, which is why I'm going to read out this from Chris, because you do find yourself wondering how people can be looking at the same world you're looking at and arriving at such completely different conclusions. 'The polling we looked at in Ha'aretz, displaying support not just for ethnic cleansing, but also for genocide, on levels that many of us would find terrifying. 'And of course it's not confined, as Chris writes from Oxford "I'm loving the show" thank you, Chris "and the high quality of callers today, but I do think it's worth saying that these warped views are not just an Israeli problem. '"My wife was brought up Jewish and at Shabbat school in a leafy Hertfordshire town she was taught that one Jewish life is worth thousands of Arab lives, and that Arabs are cockroaches to be crushed. '"Whilst young children are being taught such hatred and dehumanisation, undoubtedly on both sides" as Chris points out "then they will always be able to justify death and cruelty, and it does indeed start young." '"There is a danger perhaps that we only ever hear one side of the dehumanisation and propaganda processes."' Apology today 'This is very important. At this time yesterday on the show, I read out a message from a listener called Chris who said that his wife had been brought up in the Jewish faith and had attended what he described as a "Shabbat school". 'He went on to make further claims about what he said she had been taught in that school. 'As with all the texts and messages that I read out on the programme, I did so in good faith, but the message has understandably upset a lot of people, and I regret taking those unsubstantiated claims at face value, and I'm genuinely sorry for that. 'It is very important that I get that out there, and thank you for your attention.' Advertisement This post has since been deleted by LBC. But the comments sparked fury, with the Jewish Leadership Council describing the unchallenged read-out as 'irresponsible and dangerous journalism'. The Board of Deputies of British Jews said it was 'urgently seeking a meeting with senior executives' at LBC, and called on the station to take Mr O'Brien off air. And the Jewish News pointed out that 'while there is certainly a concept of 'Sunday school', or 'cheder', for Jewish children, there is no such thing as 'Shabbat school'.' The broadcast has also allegedly been reported to the Metropolitan Police - with one complaint claiming the programme spread 'lies about Jews', according to The Telegraph. Ofcom confirmed to MailOnline that it had received complaints about the content, which were now being assessed. While Mr O'Brien presented his show as normal today, he addressed the controversy at 11.48am, which was the same time he read out the message yesterday. He said: 'This is very important. At this time yesterday on the show, I read out a message from a listener called Chris who said that his wife had been brought up in the Jewish faith and had attended what he described as a 'Shabbat school'. 'He went on to make further claims about what he said she had been taught in that school. 'As with all the texts and messages that I read out on the programme, I did so in good faith, but the message has understandably upset a lot of people, and I regret taking those unsubstantiated claims at face value, and I'm genuinely sorry for that. 'It is very important that I get that out there, and thank you for your attention.' A Campaign Against Antisemitism spokesman told MailOnline today: 'This was a modern blood libel on national radio, amplified by a host who likely wouldn't think twice about cutting off the statement were it promoting such grotesque falsehoods about another minority. No such generosity for the Jews. 'The suggestion that one "side" of this conflict is the genocidal monsters of Hamas who slaughtered 1,200 people and took some 250 hostage, and the other "side" is the Jewish community in Hertfordshire, is not only a baseless fiction and totally repugnant but to broadcast it is unbelievably reckless. 'It is practically an invitation to disaffected people to target Jews in the UK why not, if they are a 'side' in this conflict? 'It is deplorable the depths that some talk show hosts will sink to inflame their listeners and drive up ratings. The consequences are borne by British Jews. We are formally complaining to Ofcom. 'While we welcome LBC's deletion of the post and Mr O'Brien's apology, perhaps he might take a break from moralising to the nation and reflect on why a listener like that understood that his was exactly the right show to promote this bile, and why Mr O'Brien himself was only too ready to treat the claims as entirely plausible and convenient to his narrative. 'What does that say about his own prejudices and views on certain topics to which British Jews are particularly sensitive?' Israel has been accused of violating international law in Gaza, with 28 countries calling for it to allow more aid into the occupied territory (pictured: a child at a refugee camp in Gaza City) World leaders have urged Israel to end its military campaign in Gaza 'now' (pictured: military vehicles on the border earlier today) The wreckage of a Palestinian ambulance in Beit Lahia, in the north of Gaza, after an Israeli strike hit the area Much of Gaza has been decimated by two years of almost ceaseless Israeli strikes, which it maintains are targeting Hamas fighters After yesterday's broadcast, a Jewish Leadership Council spokesperson said: 'For James O'Brien to uncritically read out this outrageous claim as the truth is irresponsible and dangerous journalism. 'At a time of heightened antisemitism when synagogues and Jewish schools require increased security, the threat created by such unsubstantiated claims is real. LBC must urgently investigate and explain how this was allowed to be read out by their presenter.' Andrew Gilbert, vice president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, added: 'We are urgently seeking a meeting with senior executives following the completely unacceptable and highly offensive comments made by James O'Brien on his LBC show today. 'Broadcasting such a transparent falsehood and demonising the British Jewish community at a time when antisemitism in this country is at terrifyingly high levels must have clear consequences. LBC should apologise and take Mr O'Brien off the air.' An Ofcom spokeswoman told MailOnline today: 'We are assessing the complaints against our rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.' MailOnline has contacted LBC and the Metropolitan Police for comment. Israel is continuing its campaign in the Gaza Strip against Hamas after the October 6 attacks saw around 1,200 Israelis killed during a militant incursion into the country. More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed since, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. Around two thirds are women and children, according to previous casualty analysis by the UN. The UK was among 28 countries to sign a letter calling on Israel to end the war in Gaza 'now' amid a growing humanitarian crisis in the region, which has been all but completely decimated by Israeli strikes. Sir Keir Starmer was among the world leaders to express concern at the suffering endured by civilians in Gaza, which the statement noted had reached 'new depths'. The Israeli model of delivering aid, the letter said, was 'dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity'. More than 1,000 people seeking aid have been killed by Israeli forces while trying to get food, the UN's Human Rights Office said yesterday. Its claims could not be immediately verified. A spokesperson for Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the statement was 'disconnected from reality' while President Isaac Herzog maintained the state was operating 'according to international law' on a visit to Gaza on Wednesday. Mediators in Qatar are hosting talks between Israel and Hamas on a 60-day ceasefire that could see hostages released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Israel is demanding the dismantling of Hamas itself, while the militant terror group wants guarantees on a lasting truce, a withdrawal from Gaza and the free flow of aid. A triple murderer was among the 10 prisoners sent back to the US as part of a deal between the State Department and Venezuela. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, 55, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in Caracas last year after he killed three people in Madrid in 2016. He was one of the American citizens flown to Texas on Friday as part of a deal between the White House and the Nicolas Maduro regime in Venezuela. The Trump administration said the Americans had been political prisoners in the country, with Secretary Marco Rubio saying: 'Every wrongfully detained American in Venezuela is now free and back in our homeland.' But the Venezuelan NGO Foro Penal warned that one of them was a murderer, not a dissident, as reported by El Pais. It is not clear if Ortiz was transferred to a prison after landing in Texas last week. Daily Mail has reached out to the State Department for comment on this story. After the prisoner swap, Venezuelan regime leader Diosdado Cabello appeared to troll the US, saying: 'We handed over some murderers for you.' Triple murderer Dahud Hanid Ortiz, 55, was among the 10 prisoners sent back to the US in a deal with Venezuela Spanish police said Ortiz meant to kill his ex-wife's new boyfriend but instead killed the wrong man and two law clerks at a law firm The Venezuelan regime swapped the 10 US citizens in exchange for the scores of Venezuelan migrants deported by the United States to El Salvador Ortiz was born in Venezuela, but became a naturalized US citizen after serving in Iraq. He was arrested in Caracas in 2018 after he fled Spain following the murders. Spanish police said Ortiz meant to kill his ex-wife's new boyfriend, lawyer Victor Joel Salas, but instead killed the wrong man and two law clerks at a law firm. Salas told Spanish media he feels betrayed after Ortiz was sent to the US. 'Both my family and I feel deceived, betrayed, and frustrated,' he said. Venezuela on Friday released 10 jailed American citizens and permanent residents in exchange for scores of migrants deported by the United States to El Salvador months ago under the Trump administrations immigration crackdown. Aside from Ortiz, the Americans were among dozens of people, including activists, opposition members and union leaders, that Venezuelas regime took into custody in its brutal campaign to crack down on dissent over the last year. 'Every wrongfully detained American in Venezuela is now free and back in our homeland,' Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement in which he thanked El Salvador president Nayib Bukele. Bukele said El Salvador had handed over all the Venezuelan nationals in its custody. Ortiz murdered John Pepe Castillo Vega, pictured, in Spain in 2016 before fleeing the country Elisa Consuegra Galvez was also murdered by Ortiz in Madrid in 2016 Maritza Osorio Riveron was Ortiz' third victim. Spanish police said Ortiz meant to kill his ex-wife's new boyfriend but targeted the wrong man and two assistants at a law firm After the prisoner swap, Venezuelan regime leader Diosdado Cabello appeared to troll the US, saying: 'We handed over some murderers for you' Central to the deal were more than 250 Venezuelan migrants freed by El Salvador, which in March agreed to a $6 million payment from the Trump administration to house them in its notorious prison. That arrangement drew immediate blowback when Trump invoked an 18th century wartime law, the Alien Enemies Act, to quickly remove the men that his administration had accused of belonging to the violent Tren de Aragua street gang, teeing up a legal fight that reached the Supreme Court. The administration did not provide evidence to back up those claims. The Venezuelans had been held in a mega-prison known as the Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, which was built to hold alleged gang members in Bukeles war on the countrys gangs. Human rights groups have documented hundreds of deaths as well as cases of torture inside its walls. Photos and videos released by El Salvadors government on Friday showed shackled Venezuelans sitting in a fleet of buses and boarding planes surrounded by officers in riot gear. One man looked up and pointed toward the sky as he climbed aboard a plane, while another made an obscene gesture toward police. Aside from Ortiz, the Americans sent back to the US were among dozens of people, including activists, opposition members and union leaders, that Venezuelas regime took into custody in its brutal campaign to crack down on dissent over the last year A Venezuelan migrant who was jailed in El Salvador reacts after getting off a plane at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas, Venezuela One of the men is reportedly Andry Hernandez Romero, a makeup artist who fled Venezuela last year and was taken into Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody at a border crossing in San Diego before eventually being flown to El Salvador. Maduro described Friday as 'a day of blessings and good news for Venezuela.' He called it 'the perfect day for Venezuela.' The release of the Venezuelans, meanwhile, is an invaluable win for Maduro as he presses his efforts to assert himself as president despite credible evidence that he lost reelection last year. A graduate student missing for more than 72 hours was last captured on surveillance camera walking alone near a river - moments before vanishing without a trace and leaving behind her cellphone. Eliotte Heinz hasnt been seen or heard from since the early hours of Sunday. The 22-year-old disappeared walking along the Mississippi River after leaving a bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin. A photo from the surveillance footage shared by local police shows Heinz - dressed in a white t-shirt, cut-off denim shorts, and white sneakers - walking along the waterfront in the 500 block of Front Street South at 3:22am. In the image, Heinz appears to be alone and holding something in her hand, possibly a cellphone. The footage was captured by a camera outside the Courtyard Marriott Hotel. Heinz's cellphone was later recovered by her friends close to the hotel, a source told the Daily Mail. No further details have been shared, but the discovery came after loved ones made several unsuccessful attempts to reach and locate her, her family has since confirmed to Fox News. Less than an hour before her last sighting, Heinz had been enjoying an evening out with friends at Broncos Bar in the citys downtown area, but left around 2.30am when the bar closed. Where she spent the 50 minutes between leaving the bar and being captured on the hotels security feed is not clear. The bar and the hotel are just 0.4 miles apart. A spokesperson for Broncos told the Daily Mail theyve been in communication with law enforcement and have handed over surveillance footage from Saturday night and Sunday morning to aid with the search for Heinz. A photo from the surveillance footage shared by local police shows Heinz walking along the 500 Block of Front St. South at 3:22am on Sunday Heinz had been with a group of friends at Broncos Bar in the citys downtown area, but left around 2.30am Sunday To ensure all information is accurate and properly handled, we have forwarded all relevant details, including surveillance footage from that evening, to the authorities, said the spokesperson. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide specific comments about Ms. Heinzwhile she was at our establishment. [We] are committed to assisting in any way we can to help with the investigation. The General Manager of the Courtyard Marriot could not be reached for comment. Search efforts to locate Heinz continued on Wednesday morning. For the last few days, local law enforcement has been searching near the Mississippi River, using drones and dive units to scour along shorelines close to where the last-known image of Heinz was captured. Those searches have since extended to include shorelines near Houska Park on the other side of the river. Heinzs mother, Amber Heinz, said her daughter was on her way to her apartment when she disappeared. The journey should've taken Heinz around 30 minutes - but she never made it back. Heinzs family realized something was wrong when they couldnt reach her by phone later Sunday morning. We talk all the time. We talked to her that week. We were texting back and forth, but on Sunday morning, when we couldn't get a hold of her, we knew that something was going on, Amber told Fox News. We're all just trying to stay positive and get her home. That's our focus. We are praying for the best possible outcome, which is Eliotte to come back to us and continue on her journey as she grows and becomes the amazing person that she is. For the last two days, local law enforcement has been searching near the Mississippi River, using drones and dive units to scour along shorelines close to where the last-known image of Heinz was captured In an emotional press conference, her mom, Amber Heinz, described her daughter as a smart and responsible person Amber added that shes unsure if her daughter was trying to call a ride-share taxi at the time of her disappearance, or whether she was following directions on her phone. The Daily Mail has reached out to Uber and Lyft for comment but did not immediately hear back. The La Crosse Police Department launched an appeal Wednesday to all local businesses in the citys downtown to check their properties and cameras for potential leads. [P]lease check your properties along with reviewing camera/video footage between the hours of 2am-9am on Sunday July 20th, 2025, for anyone matching the description of Eliotte, an alert from the department read. The family issued a similar plea Tuesday, urging locals to keep an eye out for even the smallest of details and comb back through any doorbell camera footage they might have. Even the smallest detail could make a difference, the family wrote. If you see anything that may help, please contact the La Crosse Police Department Please continue to keep Eliotte and our family in your prayers. Heinz is working on her doctorate in psychology at Viterbo College During an emotional press conference on Monday, Heinzs brother, Brett Heinz, said her disappearance is tearing our family apart' Heinz is a graduate student at Viterbo College, where she is enrolled in the schools mental health counseling program. The schools campus is serving as a home base for volunteer searchers, whove helped her family canvas the surrounding area and hand out fliers over the last 48 hours. Tips continue to pour in regarding her disappearance, La Crosse PD shared. Heinzs family described her as responsible, kind, and deeply loved. Her sudden disappearance is completely out of character, the family shared. We just want Eliotte home. This nightmare has shaken us to the core. During an emotional press conference on Monday, Heinzs brother, Brett Heinz, said her disappearance is tearing our family apart. Everyone is just really messed up right now, he said. We dont know where Eliotte is. We need to find her. Heinz is described as being five-foot-four, weighing around 120 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes The family shared in a later statement that they've been overwhelmed by the public's support. 'On behalf of our entire family, thank you,' the Heinz family wrote. 'The outpouring of support in the search for Eliotte has been overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and encouragement from the community and beyond. 'Many of you have asked how you can help. At this time, the most important thing you can do is continue sharing Eliottes information on social media.' Heinz is described as being five-foot-four, weighing around 120 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information about Heinz's whereabouts is asked to call the police non-emergency number at 608-782-7575. Information can also be sent anonymously to La Crosse Area Crime Stoppers at 608-784-TIPS or submitted online at https://www.p3tips.com/459. A survivor of the Idaho murders described killer Bryan Kohberger as being 'less than human' and 'evil', while delivering a heart wrenching statement at his sentencing. Kohberger is being sentenced this morning inside Ada County Courthouse, in Boise, while families of the victims and survivors speak out. Survivor Dylan Mortensen took several moments to compose herself and had to sit down while giving her victim statement. Through deep sobs and broken breath, Mortensen described Kohberger as being subhuman. She told the court: 'He is a hollow vessel. Something less than human, a body without empathy, without remorse. He feels nothing. 'He chose destruction. He chose evil. He tried to take everything from me, my friends, my safety, their lives. He will stay here, empty forgotten and powerless.' After finishing her emotional statement those who had gathered inside the packed courtroom could be seen wiping tears from their eyes. Throughout the statement Kohberger remained emotionless, keeping his eyes forward. Dylan Mortensen took several moments to compose herself and had to sit down while giving her victim statement Dylan Mortensen gets a hug after speaking at the sentencing hearing Mortensen was a 19-year-old sophomore at the time of the murders. She moved into 1122 King Road in the summer of 2022 where her four friends were murdered. He had accepted a plea deal for the murders of Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle. Like Kernodle and Mogen, Mortensen was a member of Pi Beta Phi and her 'Big' was Kernodle's best friend Emily Alandt. According to friends and court documents, she was a self-described 'scaredy cat' and had called Alandt over to the home multiple times because she had heard noises that freaked her out. At around 4am on November 13, 2022, Mortensen was woken by strange noises inside the home. When she looked around her bedroom door on the second story, she saw Kohberger walk straight past her in the direction of the back door. He was dressed in all black, wearing a mask and with bushy eyebrows. She had no idea that this intruder had just murdered her four friends. Throughout the statement Kohberger remained emotionless, keeping his eyes forward (L-R) Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke Mortensen's statement added: 'What happened that night changed everything, because of him four beautiful, genuine, compassionate people were taken from this world for no reason. 'He took away who they were becoming, and their futures they were going to have. He took away all of the memories we were supposed to make. 'He didn't just take them from the world, he took them from me. My friends, my people who felt like my home. The people I looked up to and adored more than anyone. 'What he did shattered me in places I didnt know could break. I was barely 19 when he did this. 'I should have been figuring out who I was, instead I was supposed to learn to survive the unimaginable.' Kohberger, a 30-year-old PhD candidate, declined to speak at the hearing as he was told he would spend the remainder of his life behind bars without parole. A new video has surfaced showing ousted tech CEO Andy Byron getting cozy with his HR chief Kristin Cabot at last week's Coldplay concert just moments before the band's kiss cam caught them redhanded. Byron, who resigned just days ago amidst a swirling scandal, is seen with his arm around Cabot, swaying to the music at Boston's Gillette Stadium. The footage was unearthed by concertgoers actively searching for more incriminating evidence involving the alleged couple, who were seated prominently in the front row of the mezzanine. Images show them stood up next to other seated patrons, with Byron pressed close behind Cabot. The pair's open display of affection, directly in the line of sight of Chris Martin and his bandmates, took a sharp turn when the kiss cam focused on them. Their initial smiles quickly morphed into panic as they attempted to hide their faces and sink out of view. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin quipped, 'Oh what either they're having an affair or they're very shy.' Byron, seeing himself on the big screen, appeared to mutter, 'F****** hell, it's me.' New footage shows Kiss Cam 'couple' CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's antics before they were exposed on the big screen The awkward moment elicited roaring laughter from the 55,000strong crowd and has since garnered millions of views online. Both Byron and Cabot, employees of the over $1.3 billion tech company Astronomer, were immediately placed on leave following the incident, which ultimately led to Byron's public resignation. Astronomer announced Byron's resignation in a statement on Saturday. 'Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and the Board of Directors has accepted.' Cofounder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy will stay on as interim CEO. 'While awareness of our company may have changed overnight, our product and our work for our customers have not. We're continuing to do what we do best: helping our customers with their toughest data and AI problems.' Astronomer acknowledged the awkward situation in the statement announcing Byron's resignation. 'Before this week, we were known as a pioneer in the DataOps space, helping data teams power everything from modern analytics to production AI,' the statement read. Byron and Cabot were caught in a moment of intimacy during a Coldplay concert in Boston (pictured together during the gig) A new angle shows them entwined well before the Jumbotron incident. They are visible in the top stood up while everyone around them remains sat 'While awareness of our company may have changed over night our product and our work for our customers have not.' Public records suggest both Byron and Cabot are married. The new CEO of Astronomer issued a statement announcing his official role on Monday, as he appeared to suggest he's thrilled about the awkward Coldplay concert cuddling scandal that landed him the job. Pete DeJoy took to LinkedIn to announce his new and now official role. 'The spotlight has been unusual and surreal for our team and, while I would never have wished for it to happen like this, Astronomer is now a household name,' he wrote. 'I'm stepping into this role with a wholehearted commitment to taking care of our people and delivering for our customers. 'Astronomer's foundation remains strong, built around the thriving Apache Airflow community,' he went on, adding that the company 'won't let you down'. Byron is married to wife Megan Byron, according to public records. She removed her husband's last name from her social media profiles shortly before the viral moment exploded. Kristin, 52, is married to Privateer Rum owner Andrew Cabot, (pictured together) who is a direct descendent of one of the original Boston Brahmin families Andrew Cabot, (pictured) is listed on Privateer Rum's website lists as its CEO and COO of the company The 50-year-old fled the couple's $1.4million home in Northborough, Massachusetts, and has been trying to keep a low profile at their $2.4million luxury property in Kennebunk, 106 miles away. Cabot meanwhile is married to Andrew Cabot, who is a direct descendent of one of the original Boston Brahmin families. The term 'Boston Brahmin' refers to the historic aristocracy in Boston, dating back to the the earliest English colonists. These ultra-wealthy families held significant social, political and cultural influence from the 18th century onward. Andrew is chief executive of Privateer Rum, a Massachusetts-based booze maker. He is also heir to his family's $15.4 billion fortune. A Colorado pastor and his wife have been indicted on dozens of charges related to an alleged cryptocurrency scam they are accused of masterminding to steal millions of dollars from their congregants, according to the Denver District Attorney's Office. Eli and Kaitlyn Regalado, who together ran the online-only Victorious Grace Church, received almost $3.4 million from investors who were buying into what they thought was the couple's sophisticated crypto token, according to the indictment. The token, called INDXcoin, was hyped up to Christians at their church and other churches by Eli Regalado as an investment with 'an unparalleled risk-to-return ratio' that made it a 'coveted cryptocurrency to both new and experienced crypto enthusiasts,' the filings say. Investigators claim that the Regalados sought to line their pockets with the creation of INDXcoin and the Kingdom Wealth Exchange, the platform where the cryptocurrency would be traded. Approximately $1.3 million, or 39 percent of the funds given to them by investors, 'went directly to Eli and Kaitlyn Regalado' and were used for their personal expenses, according to the charges. The couple used the money to pay for a lavish lifestyle rather than the development or administration of the crypto project they claimed to be running, investigators said. This included home renovations, high-end merchandise, payment for an au pair, car payments, airline tickets, manicures and many other personal expenses, according to the indictment. The indictment does not specify what home renovations were commissioned and whether these related to their personal residence in Denver. Eli and Kaitlyn Regalado, who together ran the online-only Victorious Grace Church, received almost $3.4 million from investors for INDXcoin. Prosecutors say it was a scam they used to pay for personal expenses Pictured: This is how the Regalados' Denver home looked in July 2022, around the time they created INDXcoin Pictured: As of October 2024, the old home appeared to have been torn out completely and replaced with a two-story home with a large porch and garage The couple's home was once a modest-looking ranch with five bedrooms and three bathrooms, according to Zillow. But pictures from October 2024 show that the entire structure was torn down to build a new, bigger two-story home. Fraud allegations against the Regalados surfaced in November 2023 when the Kingdom Wealth Exchange was shut down by state regulators. Before the exchange was shutdown investors were told that there were 30million INDXcoins in circulation, meaning the company should have made $300million from the coins based on their supposed valuation of $1 to $1.50 per coin. State investigators found just $30,000 in the bank. In a since-deleted video on January 2024, Eli Regalado admitted that he and his wife pocketed at least some of the money from INDXcoin, but insisted that 'God is not done with this project,' according to the indictment. Using God and religious devotion as selling points became a consistent theme in the couple's videos promoting the coin, which they first created in 2022. In an August 2022 video cited by the indictment Eli Regalado said: 'It was last October [20]21, that the Lord brought this cryptocurrency to me. He said "Take this to my people for a wealth transfer."' People who wanted to make an investment of less than $5,000 were instructed to send their money to Eli Regalados personal Venmo account, according to the indictment. Anyone spending more than $5,000 was told to wire money to the couple's Wells Fargo bank account, which was 'never connected to INDXcoin, Kingdom Wealth Exchange or any other exchange,' the indictment said. Pictured: The couple appears together on a Zoom call to promote INDXcoin Eli and Kaitlyn Regalado face 40 felony charges of theft, securities fraud and racketeering. (Pictured: Eli Regalado is seen in Zambia in February 2024, after Colorado investigators had shut down his crypto exchange) The couple is scheduled to appear in court Thursday for a bail hearing The charging document also delves into the marketing of INDXcoin as a better alternative to stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency that is backed by underlying reserves of another asset such as the US dollar. The couple claimed INDXcoin was pegged to 'the overall momentum of the crypto market,' which they said made it immune to so-called pump-and-dump schemes, according to the indictment. 'The defendants represented their coins as an index of the top 100 cryptocurrencies and used technical sounding terms to confuse investors when in fact the coins were essentially backed by no assets whatsoever,' investigators claimed. Eli and Kaitlyn Regalado now face 40 felony charges of theft, securities fraud and racketeering. The largest loss a person or organization suffered by investing in INDXcoin was $200,000, according to the indictment. The indictment also contains at least four pages containing the names of witnesses. All of them are redacted. 'These charges mark a major step forward in our work to hold the Regalados accountable for their alleged crimes and to bring a measure of justice to the victims,' Denver District Attorney John Walsh said in a statement. 'I want to thank the prosecutors and investigators in my office, and, particularly, the investigators with the Colorado Division of Securities and the Colorado Attorney Generals Office, whose outstanding work on the case resulted in this indictment.' The couple is scheduled to appear in court Thursday for a bail hearing. An Iraqi migrant who entered the UK illegally by boat has won an appeal after arguing he can't be deported because he's a divorcee. The migrant won the appeal at the immigration court after saying he can't return to Iraq because of a divorce he went through in his home country. In claims that are disputed by the Home Office, he said he divorced a 'prominent' politician's daughter and brought 'dishonour' upon their family. The Iraqi says it would violate his human rights to send him back to Iraq because he is at risk of an 'honour feud'. He even alleges he was ambushed by four armed men who stabbed him '17 times' - however there are question marks over the claim due to a lack of medical evidence. The Iraqi, who has been granted anonymity, won an appeal at the Upper Tribunal of the Immigration and Asylum Chamber to have his case reheard. The tribunal was told the Iraqi is of Kurdish ethnicity and Sunni Muslim faith and is from Sulaymaniyah City, in the Kurdish region. A tribunal judgement said he entered Britain 'clandestinely' in 2020. An Iraqi migrant who entered the UK illegally by boat has won an appeal after arguing he can't be deported because he's a divorcee (File image) The judgement said: 'He departed Iraq on July 26, 2019, initially travelling by air to Turkey, and subsequently continued his journey through Greece, Italy, and France, ultimately entering the United Kingdom clandestinely by boat on August 7, 2020. 'He submitted an application for asylum the following day. '[The Iraqi's] claim for asylum is based upon a claimed risk of being a victim of an honour-based crime. 'He alleges that he fled Iraq due to threats from his former father-in-law, a prominent and influential politician affiliated with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). 'According to the [Iraqi], he was accused of bringing dishonour upon [his ex-father-in-law's] family by divorcing his daughter.' It was accepted he was married and went through a divorce, but the Home Office 'did not accept that he had experienced problems from his ex-father-in-law'. The Home Office issued a deportation order but the Iraqi, who had a child with his ex-wife, appealed it at the First-tier Tribunal last year. The First-tier Tribunal dismissed his appeal, with the judge at the time 'questioning the credibility of the marriage itself'. The First-tier Tribunal said there was a 'disparity in social status' between his ex-wife - the daughter of a powerful politician - and him, a 'minimally educated taxi driver from a marginalised tribe'. In response to the Iraqi's claims that he was the victim of a 'violent' attack linked to the honour feud and stabbed 17 times, the judge also said there were 'credibility issues'. The First-tier Tribunal judge said the account was 'implausible and unsubstantiated by any hospital records or medical evidence'. The judge at the time said his 'asylum claim was entirely lacking in credibility and determined that it was a complete fabrication'. The Iraqi appealed the case again at the Upper Tribunal and it has now been found that the First-tier Tribunal judge made mistakes in law. Deputy Judge of the Upper Tribunal Sara Anzani said the judge was wrong to question the marriage and divorce certificates and said the judge did not give the Iraqi a chance to respond to their doubts. Judge Anzani said: 'These concerns about the reliability and authenticity of the marriage and divorce certificates were not previously raised by the [Home Office], nor were they put to the [Iraqi] during the hearing. 'I find that the Judge's failure to raise his concerns about the authenticity and reliability of the marriage and divorce certificates, concerns not previously identified by the [Home Office], deprived the [Iraqi] of a fair opportunity to address the Judge's doubts. 'The Judge's findings on the marriage and divorce certificates contribute to his overall assessment of the [Iraqi's] credibility, and the ultimate finding that [his] claim was fabricated. 'Consequently, this procedural error is material and permeates the entirety of the Judge's decision.' A woman in her 70s has been arrested after allegedly plotting to assassinate prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a rocket-propelled grenade. The pensioner, described by cops as an anti-government protester from Tel Aviv, was detained by the Shin Bet internal security agency around six weeks ago before she was under house arrest. Investigators say she expressed a desire to kill the prime minister and even sought help from other activists to get weapons and gather intelligence on his security. Israeli police said: 'The suspect is accused of having expressed her intent to kill Netanyahu. She is also said to have sought assistance from other activists to obtain weapons and gather information about the prime ministers security arrangements.' The investigation has now concluded, and the woman is set to be charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and conspiracy to carry out an act of terrorism. A gag order on the details of the case was lifted at the request of investigators, but the suspect's name and address have remained sealed. According to local media, sources indicated that the woman had fallen ill and was planning to 'take Netanyahu with her'. The woman is said to have told people she plans to 'take Netanyahu with her' after she fell ill Those who heard the comments contacted police, leading to her arrest. The woman's words echoed events in 1995 when then-prime minister Yitzhak Rabin was killed by a far-right extremist. The moment a millionaire mining tycoon seemingly got in a solicitor's face and pushed him against a window after he refused to be a witness in court was caught on CCTV. David Lewis confronted Robert Davies MBE outside the lawyer's office in Newport. Mr Lewis, whose company operated Merthyr Tydfil's controversial Ffos-y-Fran mine, was cautioned for assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH) and was later prosecuted. However, the case has since been dropped, prompting Mr Davies to release CCTV of the ordeal. The dramatic footage, seen first by WalesOnline, appears to show 75-year-old Mr Davies exiting the office to his firm, RDP Law, while Mr Lewis is outside in his car. Lewis is outside in his car. The mining tycoon, 68, then exits the vehicle and approaches Mr Davies before appearing to get right in his face. Mr Lewis then seems to follow him to the side of the building, with the lawyer appeared to be pinned up against a window. In CCTV footage, David Lewis appears to get right in the face of Robert Davies MBE Mr Davies appears to point to the CCTV camera while Mr Lewis is approaching him outside his firm's Newport office Mr Lewis then seems to follow him to the side of the building in Newport Mr Lewis is the director of Merthyr (South Wales) Ltd, which ran Ffos y Fran - the UK's last opencast coal mine - from 2007 until two years ago when it shut down Mr Lewis is the director of Merthyr (South Wales) Ltd, which ran Ffos y Fran - the UK's last opencast coal mine - from 2007 until two years ago when it shut down. The company is currently embroiled in controversy over the land's restoration. Mr Davies has claimed the background to the confrontation regards a civil court case. He told WalesOnline: 'In April 2024, proceedings between companies controlled by Mr Lewis, and a third party, were heard by the High Court in London. Both parties had wanted me as a witness; I declined, but appeared when summoned by the court to do so.' After Mr Davies provided evidence in the High Court, he claims he received a visit from Mr Lewis on May 16 last year while heading out the office. In a statement to police, he said: 'I noticed there was a black convertible car parked in the bay immediately to the right of the front door of the office as one walks out. 'As I was leaving the front entrance, I turned left towards my car and heard someone call: 'Come here you f***ing little s***.' When Mr Lewis appeared at Newport Magistrates' Court this month, the case was reportedly dropped, leaving Mr Davies furious After a police investigation was carried out, a PC emailed Mr Davies: 'Mr Lewis will receive a conditional caution for [assault occasioning actual bodily harm] with the condition to attend a victim awareness course.' After being cautioned, Mr Lewis allegedly failed to comply with the condition, which led to a prosecution being brought for ABH. However, when Mr Lewis appeared at Newport Magistrates' Court this month, the case was reportedly dropped, leaving Mr Davies furious. Prosecutor Adam Warner later wrote to Mr Davies saying: 'I am writing to let you know that I have reviewed the charge of assault occasioning you actual bodily harm on May 16, 2024, and made the decision to stop the prosecution. The reason for my decision is that a six-month time limit to commence a prosecution for the appropriate offence has passed.' MailOnline has contacted Mr Davies for comment, and attempted to contact Mr Lewis for comment. The biggest ever shark tagged in the Atlantic has been tracked swimming dangerously close to one of America's top summer vacation spots. The 14-foot, 1,653-pound apex predator - nicknamed 'Contender' after the research vessels used by the organization - was recently detected off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts, about 30 miles from Cape Cod and 100 miles south of Boston. Marine researchers from nonprofit group OCEARCH, which monitors sharks around the globe, say the adult male is about 32 years old and still going strong, well within the typical great white lifespan of 30 to 40 years. The shark was first tagged in January near the Florida-Georgia border and has since made a 1,000-mile journey up the East Coast. It has pinged more than 40 times along the way, including in February off Vero Beach, Florida, and in June near Cape Hatteras in North Carolina. Contender's tracker pings whenever his dorsal fin breaks the surface while an Argos satellite is overhead and allows researchers a glimpse into the migration habits of these top-tier predators. Experts say great whites often head north in spring and summer, following prey and cooler waters, making this latest sighting near Nantucket an unsettling but not unusual event. While large, Contender is still smaller than the blood-thirsty antagonist of the 1975 blockbuster hit Jaws. A colossal great white shark has been tracked swimming dangerously close to one of America's top summer vacation spots The 14-foot, 1,653-pound apex predator nicknamed 'Contender' was recently detected off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts While Contender is an impressive 14-foot, 1,653-pound predator, it's still no match for the fictional behemoth - the 25-foot killing machine that terrorized Amity Island in the movie filmed in nearby Martha's Vineyard. But experts say a real-life great white shark that size simply isn't possible. 'The largest white sharks that have been reliably measured are right around 20 feet, and any larger than this is likely impossible,' Nick Whitney, PhD, the senior scientist and chair of the Fisheries Science and Emerging Technologies department at the New England Aquarium told USA Today last year. 'We know this because scientists have been able to calculate the size of white sharks at different ages and show that their growth levels off when they hit around 40 years old. 'So you could roughly estimate a white shark's age based on it's length for its first few decades of life, but if you measured several white sharks between the ages of 40 and 70, their lengths would all be similar. 'They're just not going to reach 25 feet. Anything between 16 and 20 feet is a real monster.' Marine biologist Andriana Fragola, 31, issued advice to beachgoers to keep them safe from shark attacks. 'The best thing to do is just to remain calm,' she told Daily Mail. 'If you do want to get out of the water, just slowly kind of back out of it - that way you can keep an eye on the shark while getting out.' 'Any type of screaming and splashing, they can feel the vibrations of all of that, and it's definitely going to make them more interested in pursuing you or just checking you out.' 'Honestly, standing still is probably the best thing.' Contender is the largest shark ever tracked in the Atlantic. Pictured: Lifeguard Seamus Roche on Coast Guard Beach keeps a lookout If you're in the water and a shark is curious, eye contact is key. 'You want to look like a predator,' she said. 'You're going to stand your ground and show the animal that you see it - show the shark that you see it - by making eye contact and continuing to look around, just in case there's any other sharks in the area.' 'And then if the shark ever continued to approach you... you could push down on the top of the head and push it away from you. That's like last-case scenario.' The sister of Kaylee Goncalves who was murdered by Bryan Kohberger ripped her sibling's killer apart while delivering a blistering impact statement in court. Speaking at Kohberger's sentencing in Boise, Idaho, Alivea Goncalves ordered the quadruple murderer to 'sit up straight when I talk to you'. Watching him intently, Alivea said: 'I wont stand her and give you what you want. I wont give you tears instead. I will call you what you are: sociopath, psychopath, murderer.' 'The truth is youre basic. You're a textbook case as insecurity disguised as control. You spent months preparing and still all it took was my sister and a sheath. Youre as dumb as they come. Stupid, dumb, weak, dirty', before she then hit him with the very same questions that Kohberger posed in a survey on Reddit as part of his criminology degree at DeSales University. She went on to blast Kohberger's past and all his failings, including unanswered questions in the Idaho murder case. Alivea told Kohberger he was a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriadic loser' who 'thought you were so much better than everyone else.' In a damning conclusion, she added: 'If you hadn't attacked them in your sleep like a pedophile, Kaylee would have kicked your f****** ass.' Alivea Goncalves, seen here outside of court on Wednesday, ordered the quadruple murderer to 'sit up straight when I talk to you' Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025 The courtroom erupted in clapping at the end of Aliveas statement. Koberger remained emotionless throughout. Her father Steve turned to face his daughter's killer prior to Alivea's statement, and said they all refer to him as BK, a mocking nickname. He said: 'Today you have no name. Even the media just called you BK. Thats all you are. 'A Master's degree? Youre a joke, a complete joke. But we took this disaster and we did what we could He read a statement from his phone where he stared down Kohberger, telling him 'you picked the wrong family and we are laughing at you'. Goncalves said that Kohberger united everyone in our disgust, in our love for these children', while adding the family would forget him after today. Kohberger didn't show a flicker of emotion as the statement was directed at him. Kaylee's mother Kristi also spoke to Kohberger, telling him he left a 'trail of devastation far beyond that house'. Her father Steve, seen here, turned to face his daughter's killer prior to Alivea's statement, and said they all refer to him as BK, a mocking nickname Kaylee Goncalves was murdered alongside her three friends in a brutal knife attack carried out by Kohberger (L-R) Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke She cited her disappointment that he would not be facing a firing squad, but warned that 'your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival. Kaylee's youngest sister Aubree also echoed this sentiment in a comment delivered by her mom. She said: 'You might be getting A's, but you'll be getting big D's in prison.' Kohberger, a 30-year-old PhD candidate, declined to speak at the hearing as he was told he would spend the remainder of his life behind bars without parole. The Goncalves family vehemently opposed the plea deal, with Steve protesting outside the change of plea hearing in Ada County Courthouse in Boise on July 2. On The Case: The Idaho Murders is out now wherever you get your podcasts - be sure to subscribe or follow to never miss an episode. President Donald Trump had only been back in the White House for a mere 38 days when right-wing influencer Mike Cernovich was summoned to the West Wing. Cernovich, 47, wasn't surprised at the invite: as one of the original supporters of MAGA, he'd backed Trump for over a decade and earned his place among the 15 online flame-throwers who were ushered into the February 27 meeting. But he was taken aback at what happened inside, he exclusively told the Daily Mail. Cernovich and the others had been told they would meet Vice President JD Vance and perhaps a few other officials as an informal welcome to Trump 2.0. 'A bunch of people were invited, no one really knew the agenda,' he said. 'The purpose was to meet with administration officials.' Yet once the meeting was underway, the attorney general, Pam Bondi, appeared with gifts. Administration sources told the Daily Mail that Bondi blindsided White House officials by arriving unannounced at the meeting and handing out white folders. 'She walks in; she goes, "hey, I've got a surprise for you guys, here are the binders,"' revealed conservative commentator Rogan O'Handley, also known online as dc_draino, another one of the attendees. O'Handley explained on his Instagram channel: 'We were pretty excited because the night before [Bondi] said on Jesse Watters, "We're going to be releasing Epstein stuff." I was like, holy c***, we got the Epstein files.' As one of the original supporters of MAGA, Cernovich backed Trump for over a decade and earned his place among the 15 online flame-throwers who were ushered into the February 27 (pictured above) meeting President Donald Trump had only been back in the White House for a mere 38 days when right-wing influencer Mike Cernovich (pictured) was summoned to the West Wing Earlier, Bondi even told Fox News that a list of Jeffrey's Epstein's clients was 'sitting on my desk right now to review.' The 15 influencers walked out of the White House following the meeting aglow with the supposed possession of juicy secrets, proudly displaying for the cameras their ring binders, labeled 'The Epstein Files: Phase 1.' 'Only 15 binders were printed, given to 15 independent journalists now included in a growing press pool,' wrote Jessica Reed Kraus, another attendee, on Instagram. 'Proof that a powerful shift is happening,' she bragged. 'Trump walked in and told us we are the most trusted media now. And that he counts our efforts as the reason he won.' The elation of the MAGA-verse punditry was short-lived. The 'Epstein Files' turned out to be nothing but a wholly redacted list of 254 'masseurs', flight logs which had been available online since at least 2019, and Epstein's redacted address book, equally well-thumbed. One meeting attendee told the Daily Mail that they then found themselves on the defensive against critics who accused them of acting like 'shills' for the administration. Five months later, a group of MAGA-friendly podcasters are feeling similarly duped by the White House, lamenting their lack of transparency around the investigation into the disgraced deceased pedophile. The grumbling into their microphones has sparked a rare clandestine White House pressure campaign to try and tone down the festering criticisms. Cernovich said the only way to resolve the rift was to release 'the original search warrant applications' for Epstein's 2019 arrest, which he says Bondi 'could have done already.' 'This is more a job for an Inspector General,' he said. 'A real hard ass, by-the-book person who doesn't have patience for nonsense, and can order everyone to testify under oath.' Cernovich noted that the Justice Department does not need a court order to unseal the documents: 'To me that's sus. Why don't we have this basic stuff?' Administration sources told the Daily Mail that Bondi blindsided White House officials by arriving unannounced at the February 27 meeting and handing out white folders. The 'Epstein Files' turned out to be nothing but a wholly redacted list of 254 'masseurs'; flight logs which had been available online since at least 2019; and Epstein's redacted address book, equally well-thumbed. Indeed, the MAGA world fury is not dying down after Bondi's Justice Department released a July 7 memo on their investigation. The document stated that the DOJ was not a possession of an 'incriminating' Epstein 'client list,' had no credible evidence that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals and concluded that the convicted pedophile was not murdered in prison. 'No further disclosure would be appropriate or warranted,' the DOJ flatly declared. Suffice to say, it didn't go over well. Tim Dillon, a popular podcaster who interviewed Vice President Vance on October 26 in the run-up to the 2024 election, said he was invited to a dinner last week with Vance, who told him that the 10,000 hours of video files in connection to the Epstein case were 'commercial pornography' and cannot be released. Dillion claims Vance told him 'they do not have videos of any powerful person in a compromising position,' before remarking with skepticism, 'That's the party line that they're going with?' 'What I told Vance, I said, "If you don't disclose everything, you're done. Nobody will support you guys. You are fully and completely part of this coverup if everything doesn't come out." I think it paralyzes their presidency,' said Dillon, adding, '[Vance] agrees with me.' Conspiracy theorist and InfoWars host Alex Jones appeared on Dillion's podcast on Monday to say that he, too, has been contacted by the White House. 'I've had the White House call up and be like in the last week, "What do you want?",' Jones said. Jones said he told a White House staffer, 'I want you to do what you were elected to do,' a reference to Trump's campaign trail pledges for complete transparency in the Epstein investigation. Dillon then replied: 'They want this to go away... [But] it's not going to go away until [they] disclose the information [they] have.' The Daily Mail can also report that the White House reached out to Charlie Kirk, the highly influential leader of youth movement, organized under his non-profit organization Turning Point USA. 'I am not minimizing this,' Kirk said on his podcast on July 15. 'I am just the messenger here. I am simply the interlocutor. The young men, and the Gen-Z audience that I represent, they are flaming mad about this stuff.' Kirk explained the conservative people he speaks to refuse to drop the issue because 'they want to go after the deep state of government.' Conspiracy theorist and InfoWars host Alex Jones (above) appeared on Dillion's podcast on Monday to say that he, too, has been contacted by the White House. The Daily Mail can also report that the White House reached out to Charlie Kirk, the highly influential leader of youth movement, organized under his non-profit organization Turning Point USA. Trump, increasingly irritated at the fixation of erstwhile allies, picked up the phone to Kirk. A day later, Kirk appeared to backpedal: 'Honestly, I'm done talking about Epstein for the time being. I'm going to trust my friends in the administration, I'm going to trust my friends in the government to do what needs to be done, solve it, ball's in their hands.' On Tuesday, Attorney General Bondi announced that her deputy, Todd Blanche, would 'in the coming days' visit Epstein's convicted accomplice and former girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell at the federal low-security prison in Tallahassee where she is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in a sex trafficking ring. Maxwell was sentenced in June 2022, and the Daily Mail reported exclusively last week that she is willing to reveal everything she knowns about Epstein. The Republican-controlled House Oversight Committee announced on Tuesday that they would issue a subpoena for her testimony. But also on Tuesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that he was sending the House home early for the summer on Wednesday to avoid holding votes on a bipartisan measure (sponsored by Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA)) to force the release of files related to Epstein. On Wednesday, the Wall Street Journal reported that DOJ officials told Trump is May that his name appears in a 'truckload' of documents related to Epstein. For his part, Cernovich told the Daily Mail that he had not been leaned on by anyone in the White House to stop talking about Epstein - and added that he would refuse to do so if asked. 'No one has asked me to stop or tried to shape discourse,' he said. 'Whole thing is strange to me. Suddenly we are supposed to stop talking about Epstein? Suddenly, Democrats and Massie (who hates Trump, and did zero to try unsealing documents during Biden's time) are saying they want the files. Bizarre all around.' In a statement the White House told the Daily Mail: 'We hold regular meetings and phone calls with influencers and new media individuals, which began at the start of the White House administration. We discuss a range of issues, including current news and stories that arent being covered.' But Cernovich warned: 'This might be the only issue where the MAGA base will truly assert itself. On about any other issue, Trump can drive the train wherever he wants. Not on Epstein.' A dancer who unfurled a Palestinian flag during a performance at the Royal Opera House has been 'banished from working there again'. Daniel Perry - who uses 'they/them' pronouns - staged the protest during a curtain call earlier this month and despite an off-stage figure attempting to yank the flag out of their hands, they continued to wave it while taking a bow. The performer, who describes themself as a 'queer dance artist', had been hired as a freelancer by the Royal Opera House which said the protest was unauthorised and undermined its position of political impartiality, according to The Telegraph. The defiant Perry said they wanted to use the moment to make their performance 'about something bigger than me' but Oliver Mears, the director of opera at the iconic London venue told them they would never work for the venue again. Footage from the closing night of Il trovatore showed Perry, in character, unfurling the flag and holding it before a suited official ran on from the wings and tried to grab it out of their hands. The brief scuffle led Perry to knock in to some of the other performers who continued with their curtain call. The protester managed to hold on to the flag after a quick exchange with the staff member before continuing to wave it as they stood on stage. The rest of the cast seemed unaware and continued to hold hands and bow while the audience clapped and cheered. A dancer who unfurled a Palestinian flag during a performance at the Royal Opera House has been 'banished from working there again' Daniel Perry - who uses 'they/them' pronouns - staged the protest during a curtain call earlier this month and despite an off-stage figure attempting to yank the flag out of their hand, they continued to wave it while taking a bow Oliver Mears (pictured), the director of opera at the iconic London venue told Perry they would never work for the venue again According to the publication, the queer dancer said: 'I chose to do my demonstration during my curtain call, a moment for myself. I chose to make it about something bigger than me.' They added that opera audiences were the ones with the power and influence to enact change and wanted to see people standing up tot he suffering in Gaza in the Israel-Hamas war. A spokesperson for the Royal Ballet and Opera said: 'The display of the flag was an unauthorised action by the artist. It was not approved by the Royal Ballet and Opera and is a wholly inappropriate act.' A social media post earlier this month seen by MailOnline showed them standing outside the musical Cabaret in London's Charing Cross in a vest daubed with the slogan 'Free Palestine'. In the caption, they compared the events of the play - which charts the rise of the Nazi party in Germany through the lens of a Berlin cabaret club - to current events. They previously performed as a dancer in an earlier run of the play alongside Eddie Redmayne and Jessie Buckley, as well as West End productions of Mary Poppins and Carousel, according to a biography. Perry describes themself as a Queer dance artist, choreographer/movement director and DJ and has been very vocal on social media for their support for Palestine An online CV suggests they also worked on a number of cruise lines as a dancer, and appeared in a straight-to-DVD gangster film and a TV advert for crisps. 'I decided to make this top and wear it as a reminder to myself, and to those around me, of the themes of the show and its relevance to our current times,' they wrote. 'I am so disappointed in an industry that I have worked in for over 10 years. Where is your support for those who need our help?' They also called for a boycott of Coca-Cola, which has been a target of the so-called 'boycott, divest, sanctions' movement targeting businesses that continue to trade with Israel amid its war with Hamas in Gaza. President Donald Trump is escalating his war on Harvard with a new investigation that targets the university's ability to sponsor visas for international students. The State Department is leading the probe into Harvard's Exchange Visitor Program, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday. 'To maintain their privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, sponsors must comply with all regulations, including conducting their programs in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States,' Rubio said in a statement. Rubio said the investigation will seek to ensure that its programs 'do not run contrary to our nations interests.' 'The American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law and provide safe environments for all students.' The Exchange Visitor Program, which is designed to promote cross-culture education and understanding, includes students and professors as well as researchers, interns and au pairs. Harvard called the investigation 'yet another retaliatory step taken by the administration in violation of Harvard's First Amendment rights.' President Donald Trump is escalating his war on Harvard University The administration first revoked student visas in May but that move was blocked by federal judge Allison Burroughs. In May, U.S. embassies were instructed to pause all new visa interviews for applicants as it revised social media protocols to require the disclosure of past online postings. It's a way for State Department officials to identify 'hostility toward U.S. culture, government or institutions.' The Trump administration's newest move comes as the university is suing the government to stop its attempt to host international students. The State Department specifically targets people at Harvard under J-1 visas, which allow foreign nationals to come to the U.S. to participate in educational or cultural exchange programs but stipulates they are expected to return to their home countries. That is different from the F-1 visa program, which is strictly for students and is largely administered by the Department of Homeland Security. About one in four students at Harvard is international, according to the university. Rubio sent a letter to Harvard giving the university one week to produce a lengthy list of university records related to the visa program, The New York Times reported. He said his department plans to interview university staff associated with the program and also may want to speak with visa holders. Harvard University called the Trump administration's latest move 'retaliatory' Secretary of State Marco Rubio (center) is leading the new probe into the university Judge Burroughs is also hearing Harvard's lawsuit against the government for blocking its federal grants. In a recent hearing, her questions suggested she had doubts about the legality of the government's effort to tamper the university's grants and subsequent research. President Trump has waged war on elite universities, accusing them of antisemitism and blasting their 'woke' ideology. He claims the top schools in the country are controlled by 'Marxist maniacs and lunatics.' He also has railed against Harvard and other schools for not stopping pro-Palestine protests that popped up in the wake of the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. Trump has demanded Harvard eliminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion program; cut the power of its professors; refuse foreign students; and ban masks at campus protests. Idaho quadruple murderer Bryan Kohberger will get to enjoy perks including access to a TV and a tablet with music as he spends the rest of his life behind bars. Kohberger, 30, was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday after taking a controversial plea deal last month to avoid the death penalty, a move that angered some of his victims' families. As he languishes in Idaho's Maximum Security Prison, where he is expected to be sent, Kohberger will be afforded a number of amenities, including being able to watch movies to pass his sentence. The killer will also have access to emails, potentially affording him the opportunity to communicate with morbid fans. The details of Kohberger's prison life were revealed by NewsNation's Brian Entin, who said that the 30-year-old is likely to face a harsh reality despite the perks inside. 'It's the most severe facility in Idaho where the most dangerous prisoners go,' Entin said, adding that due to Kohberger's infamy, he 'could be a target' to other cons. The potential threat to Kohberger's life could see him locked up in an ultra-protective unit in the prison where inmates are confined to their cells for 23 hours a day, with only one hour outside in a cage. Following his sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole, Bryan Kohberger, 30, will get to enjoy perks behind bars including access to a TV and email As he languishes in Idaho's Maximum Security Prison (pictured), where he is expected to be sent, Kohberger will be afforded a number of amenities, including being able to watch movies to pass his sentence When Entin visited the facility, he said he observed inmates communicating through a method called 'fishing', where cons use strings from blankets or T-shirts to send notes through their doors. The tablets Kohberger will have access to are primarily only for visitations, where inmates will be able to sit at tables outside their cells but will be cuffed to the floor. To keep a tablet in his cell, Kohberger will have to pay $100, according to NewsNation, which will be able to play music, movies and email. This is the same price as getting a TV in his cell, which would come only with cable. Kevin Corson, owner of Idaho Bonding Company, told the outlet that Kohberger's infamy will mean he will be forced into extra security measures. 'Hes going to have to be segregated; as you may know, people in prison dont like people who hurt women or children, and hes hurt women,' Carson said. 'And thats not something that the inmates there take lightly. Its something that is definitely going to put a target on his back.' Due to his infamy, Kohberger is likely to be placed in a unit where inmates are kept in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Wednesday over the 2022 murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle Kohberger seen at his sentencing on Wednesday, where he chillingly refused to reveal why he carried out the gruesome slayings in 2022 At his sentencing on Wednesday, Kohberger was offered the chance to speak about the murders, but declined to do so. He sat emotionless throughout the hearing as friends and relatives of his victims read heartbreaking impact statements. According to body language expert Judi James, Kohberger's casual demeanor was an attempt at trying not to let the harrowing testimony get to him. 'The raw grief and distress displayed by the relatives of the victims was an impossible watch for almost everyone in the courtroom, apart from, emphatically and remarkably, Kohberger,' James told Daily Mail. 'Sitting looking relaxed in his chair with his elbows splayed out on the arm of the chair in a gesture of confidence and desired visibility, the opposite body language ritual of a desire to hide, which would include crossed arms, self-diminishing behaviors and eye cut-offs, he appeared to listen with what looked like a detached but forensic interest. 'Kohberger's eyes watched the relatives like a fascinated hawk. His eyes appeared to soak up every sob and every signal of distress.' The sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Alivea, delivered a searing statement, demanding he explain himself and tearing him down as a 'loser' Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen sobbed as she addressed the 30-year-old killer, and described him as 'less than human' It comes as the surviving roommates from Kohberger's rampage that killed four of their friends issued gut-wrenching statements during his sentencing hearing. Dylan Mortensen sobbed as she addressed the 30-year-old killer, and described him as 'less than human.' The sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Alivea, then delivered a searing statement, demanding he explain himself and tearing him down as a 'loser.' She demanded Kohberger 'sit up straight' while she spoke and called him a 'delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac.' The truth about Kaylee and Maddie is that they would have been kind to you. In a world that rejected you, they would have shown mercy,' Kaylee Goncalves' sister Alivea began as she spoke to Bryan Kohberger directly. Kohberger watched Alivea intently, showing no emotion or flicker of expression. Body language expert James added of this moment: 'Her comment 'sit up straight when I talk to you' brought no change of pose or movement from Kohberger but it did point up his rather relaxed pose to the courtroom and hinted at the effect it was having on the relatives.' Kohberger (seen at an earlier hearing in June 2023) will not have the chance to appeal his sentence after taking a controversial plea deal 'I wont stand her and give you what you want, I won't give you tears instead I will call you what you are: sociopath, psychopath, murderer,' she declared. She then hit him with the very same questions that Kohberger posed in a survey on Reddit as part of his criminology degree at DeSales University. She went on to blast Kohberger's past and all his failings, saying: 'You thought you were so much better than everyone else.' 'The truth is youre basic,' she continued. 'You're a textbook case as insecurity disguised as control. You spent months preparing and still all it took was my sister and a sheath.' Youre as dumb as they come. Stupid, dumb weak, dirty.' In a damning conclusion, she told Kohberger: 'If you hadn't attacked them in your sleep like a pedophile, Kaylee would have kicked your f****** a**.' The courtroom erupted in clapping at the end of Aliveas statement. China's top legislator, top political advisor meet with president of Madagascar's Senate Xinhua) 11:42, July 23, 2025 Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Richard Ravalomanana, president of the Senate of Madagascar, in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, China's top legislator, and Wang Huning, China's top political advisor, each met with Richard Ravalomanana, president of the Senate of Madagascar, in Beijing on Tuesday. Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, said that China is willing to work with Madagascar to implement the important consensus reached between their two heads of state and the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and to promote further achievements in friendly cooperation between the two countries, contributing to the construction of an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. He called on the legislative bodies of the two countries to enhance exchange and cooperation to facilitate the continuous development of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Madagascar. Ravalomanana said that relations between the two countries are built on the basis of mutual benefit, and that the heads of state of the two countries have maintained close communication and noted the direction for the development of bilateral relations. The Senate of Madagascar is willing to work with the Chinese side to enhance exchange among legislative bodies, and to play an active role in promoting economic and trade, investment and local cooperation, as well as cooperation in other fields. Wang, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), said that China and Madagascar are fellow travelers and genuine friends on the path of modernization. He said that China is willing to work with Madagascar to implement the important consensus reached between their two heads of state and bring more practical cooperation achievements to benefit their two peoples. Wang said that the National Committee of the CPPCC stands ready to enhance friendly exchange with the Senate of Madagascar and contribute to the development of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries. Ravalomanana said that Madagascar attaches great importance to the development of relations with China, admires China's development achievements, and is willing to learn from China's experience to promote cooperation in various fields for the benefit of people in both countries. The Senate of Madagascar is ready to enhance the exchange of experience in governance with the National Committee of the CPPCC to promote the in-depth development of bilateral relations, he said. Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Richard Ravalomanana, president of the Senate of Madagascar, in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), meets with Richard Ravalomanana, president of the Senate of Madagascar, in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), meets with Richard Ravalomanana, president of the Senate of Madagascar, in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger refused to reveal why he slayed four college students as he faced the music for the shocking murders. Kohberger spoke only a few words at his sentencing on Wednesday, saying in a short, forceful voice that he would not provide his motive for murdering Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle in 2022. 'I respectfully decline,' he said. A member of the audience inside the courtroom could be heard saying 'coward' after he spoke, according to reporters in the room. He stood up to address the judge moments before he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, after the friends and relatives of his victims gave heartbreaking impact statements to the court. Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen sobbed as she addressed the 30-year-old killer, and described him as 'less than human.' The sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Alivea, then delivered a searing statement, demanding he explain himself and tearing him down as a 'loser.' She demanded Kohberger 'sit up straight' while she spoke and called him a 'delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac.' The truth about Kaylee and Maddie is that they would have been kind to you. In a world that rejected you, they would have shown mercy,' Kaylee Goncalves' sister Alivea began as she spoke to Bryan Kohberger directly. Kohberger watched Alivea intently, showing no emotion or flicker of expression. Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger refused to reveal why he slayed four college students as he faced the music for the shocking murders at his sentencing on Wednesday Kohberger pleaded guilty to murdering Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle Alivea continued in her scathing remarks to Kohberger: 'I wont stand her and give you what you want, I won't give you tears instead I will call you what you are: sociopath, psychopath, murderer.' She then hit him with the very same questions that Kohberger posed in a survey on Reddit as part of his criminology degree at DeSales University. She went on to blast Kohberger's past and all his failings, saying: 'You thought you were so much better than everyone else.' 'The truth is youre basic,' she continued. 'You're a textbook case as insecurity disguised as control. You spent months preparing and still all it took was my sister and a sheath.' Youre as dumb as they come. Stupid, dumb weak, dirty.' In a damning conclusion, she told Kohberger: 'If you hadn't attacked them in your sleep like a pedophile, Kaylee would have kicked your f****** a**.' The courtroom erupted in clapping at the end of Aliveas statement. The sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Alivea, delivered a searing statement, demanding Kohberger explain himself and tearing him down as a 'loser' Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen sobbed as she addressed the 30-year-old killer, and described him as 'less than human' Kaylee Goncalves' mother Kristi addressed her daughter's killer mercilessly during the sentencing hearing. 'When you murdered my daughter Kaylee Jade Goncalves you didn't just take her life you left a trail of devastation far beyond that house. 'I live with constant ache of birthdays that are now memorials. I am forever changed,' she began. She then ripped into Kohberger as he sat and listened without expression. 'But for you as a person? Youre not that good. In fact, youre not that good at anything you couldnt even get a female to look in your direction,' she said. 'Youre now a joke in this courtroom.' Women lose protection against bone fractures when they stop taking HRT and go on to have a temporarily heightened risk of cracks, a study suggests. Researchers analysed data on 6 million women from around 2,000 GP surgeries in the UK to examine the risk of fractures over a period of up to 25 years. They compared women who suffered fractures with those who did not and examined the use of different types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It revealed women taking HRT were at reduced risk of fractures while on the drugs but this benefit began to fall once they stopped talking them. The benefit vanished completely one year after ceasing treatment and the risk then grew to a higher level than those who had not taken HRT at all. However, the risk later fell again over a period of several years to return former HRT users to a more favourable position than non-users, according to findings published in the medical journal Lancet Healthy Longevity. Dr Yana Vinogradova, from the University of Nottingham, said: The findings of our study confirmed that women on HRT show a progressively reducing fracture risk compared with women not using HRT. Research revealed women taking HRT were at reduced risk of fractures while on the drugs but this benefit began to fall once they stopped talking them More importantly, we also observed a clear pattern of risk change after therapy was discontinued. For most women, the bone protective effect of MHT use disappears completely within about one year of treatment being stopped, then their fracture risk rises compared to never users, peaking after about three years, before declining to become again equivalent to never users about 10 years after discontinuation and then again continuing to decline relative to never users. So, even after stopping MHT, women should benefit from notably reduced fracture risk in their later decades. This observed risk pattern was the same for all menopausal hormonal treatments, but the level of excess risk depended on the treatment type and the length of past HRT use. During menopause, all women experience a drop in hormone levels, particularly oestrogen. This can cause a range of distressing mental and physical side effects, including increased age-related bone weakening. Previous studies have shown taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to ease menopause symptoms also decreases the risk of suffering bone fractures while it is being used. But doctors advise against long-term use of HRT as it is may increase the odds of breast cancer and blood clots. Detailed information on this aspect from past studies has been unclear covering only the first couple of years, and also being somewhat conflicting. Doctors advise against long-term use of HRT as it is may increase the odds of breast cancer and blood clots Dr Vinogradova added: Our comparative illustration of observed patterns of fracture risk for short and long use can help doctors and patients when discussing HRT treatment options, and to consider how fracture risk may change after stopping HRT use. Anticipating periods of increased risk might prompt doctors to check patients bone health at discontinuation, particularly for patients most at risk with other fracture risk factors such as smoking or inactivity. These novel findings may also usefully stimulate further clinical and biological research into these treatments. shaun.wooller@dailymail.co.uk The doctor who gave actor Matthew Perry doses of ketamine before he overdosed and drowned in the hot tub of his LA home has pleaded guilty to playing a role in his death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia appeared in federal court on Wednesday and was mostly quiet as the judge went over the plea agreement for nearly an hour. Plasencia, who was often called 'Dr. P', was facing a potential 40-year prison sentence had he not taken the plea deal. He is expected to return to court on December 3 for sentencing and will face up to 10 years in federal prison. Dr. Salvador Plasencia leaves federal court on July 23 after pleading guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine to actor Matthew Perry before his death in October 2023 The Friends actor struggled with depression and drug abuse for years When asked by the judge if he and his lawyers had considered all the possibilities of pleas and sentencing in the case, the 43-year-old physician replied, 'They've considered everything.' He had previously pleaded not guilty, but in exchange for the guilty pleas prosecutors have agreed to drop three additional counts of distribution of ketamine and two counts of falsifying records. The Santa Monica physician is the fourth person who was indicted on criminal charges in connection to the Friends' star's death on Oct. 28, 2023. Jasveen Sangha, was known to her customers as the 'Ketamine Queen', is the only defendant who has not decided to take a plea deal in connection to the actors death. She is slated to return to court August 19. Jasveen Sangha, aka the 'Ketamine Queen', is the only defendant left who has yet to plead guilty Dr. Mark Chavez also plead guilty to charges in connection to Matthew Perry's death Sangha remains in custody in Los Angeles awaiting trial. Others who have plead guilty include Perry's assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, who discovered the actor's lifeless body in his hot tub. The LA County Medical Examiner's Office determined that the actor who had battled substance abuse issues throughout his life died of 'acute effects of ketamine.' Perry had been receiving ketamine infusion therapy as treatment for his depression, but the last session was a week and a half before he died, the medical examiner determined. Ketamine is only in your system for three to four hours, which means it did not lead directly to his death. 'At the high levels of ketamine found in his postmortem blood specimens, the main lethal effects would be from both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression,' the medical examiner, Raffi Djabourian, concluded. Two others physician Mark Chavez, of San Diego and Erik Fleming, 54, of Hawthorne also plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. In his plea agreement, Plasencia admitted he met Perry through another patient connected him with Perry. He admitted supplying Perry with 20 vials of ketamine totaling 100 mg of the drug, along with ketamine lozenges and syringes about a month before the actor's death. He also admitted enlisting Dr. Chavez, who supplied the drugs. In court documents, Plasencia texted Chavez: 'I wonder how much this moron will pay,' referring to Perry. Matthew Perry's longtime assistant, Kenny Iwamasa, pleaded guilty in connection to his former boss's death. Prosecutors allege the assistant injected Perry with ketamine on the day the actor died Federal prosecutors said Plasencia sold the drugs to the actor for $4,500. He also told Chavez to keep the supplies coming so they could become the actor's 'go-to'. Perry - who had long struggled with addiction and staying sober - told Iwamasa to procure illegal drugs for him in late September 2023. Iwamasa allegedly obtained the ketamine he gave to Perry from Plasencia and Fleming. The assistant reportedly met with Plasencia at least seven times between September 30 and October 28, 2023. On the day of his death, Perry reportedly told Iwamasa to 'shoot me up with a big one,' and was injected with ketamine by the assistant three times, according to his plea agreement. Prosecutors allege Iwamasa also began obtaining ketamine for Perry from Fleming and Sangha beginning in mid-October 2023. After discussing prices with Iwamasa, Fleming allegedly coordinated the drug sales with Sangha, and brought cash from Iwamasa to Sanghas stash house in North Hollywood. In October 24, 2023, Fleming allegedly told Iwamasa that the ketamine was 'on its way to our girl,' referring to Sangha. Prosecutors allege Sangha distributed ketamine and other illegal drugs from her stash house in North Hollywood since 2019. A 37-year-old lorry driver, who was set to pocket 25,000 for smuggling a six-year-old girl into the UK, has been jailed. Polish national Dawid Flis, 37, was arrested by the National Crime Agency after arriving into the Port of Killingholme in North Lincolnshire in his HGV on March 23. He had travelled from the Hook of Holland, a village in the Netherlands, with an Albanian woman and a child hidden in the bunk area of the driver's cab. After the lorry was searched by Border Force, the two were found, with the woman later telling investigators she had agreed to pay Flis 25,000 to be brought to the UK. She revealed they had arranged to meet at the roadside in Holland, where he had let them both into the cab. The woman had already paid 12,500. On June 20, Flis pleaded guilty to facilitating illegal immigration at Grimsby Crown Court. Polish national Dawid Flis, 37, was arrested by the National Crime Agency after arriving into the Port of Killingholme in North Lincolnshire in his HGV on March 23 An Albanian woman and child was found in the bunk of his HGV after he arrived to the Port of Killinghome (pictured). He has now been jailed for four years Today, he was sentenced at the same court to four years in prison, and will be deported after his time behind bars. NCA Branch Commander Sara Moore said: 'Dawid Flis abused his position as a lorry driver to attempt to smuggle a woman and child into the UK. 'Tackling organised immigration crime is a priority for the NCA and we will continue in our pursuit of individuals who are involved in this criminality at every step of the chain.' One man arrested as part of the same incident has been extradited to Italy, while a second remains on bail. A 'serial horse rapist' has admitted to sexually abusing a pregnant Shetland pony eight times after a neighbour caught him in the act in CCTV footage. Ricardo van Z., 38, from De Kwakel, North Holland, appeared in court in Amsterdam on Wednesday after having sexual intercourse with the pony and filming the ordeals in a pasture in Amstelveen. He is also accused of abusing his dog and possessing child pornography. Van Z. is said to have committed the heinous acts on the pony in September and October of last year, with the most recent incident occurring in April of this year. Local media reports that he often visited the black mare, named Ona, during the night in a meadow on Amsteldijk Zuid. She is said to have been several months pregnant at the time of the abuse. The animal's owner had seen on horrific CCTV footage, Van Z. climbing over the fence and leading the pony to a shelter. The owner claimed the man used rope to tie up the Shetland during the vile sexual assaults, and Van Z testified in court he had used baby oil on the animal. Following the assault, De Telegraaf reports the pregnant pony developed an infection and exhibited stressful behavior, leading the owner to investigate. Ricardo van Z., 38, from De Kwakel, North Holland, appeared in court in Amsterdam on Wednesday after having sexual intercourse with the pony and filming the ordeals (File photo) Van Z. is said to have committed the heinous acts on the pony in September and October of last year, with the most recent incident occurring in April of this year, in Amstelveen, Holland (pictured) The suspect was arrested on October 31, and was handed a restraining order. But despite this, he returned to the meadow once more in April 2025 to abuse the pony. 'He's a serial horse rapist,' the officer told the court. At the time of his arrest, eight recordings of sex with the pony and more than 600 child pornographic images were found at his home, according to Hart van Nederland. According to the suspect, these appeared on his computer while he was searching for naked women. 'I didn't search for child pornography, I'm not a pedophile,' he told the court on Wednesday. Van Z. is also suspected of abusing his Keeshond dog, a charge he denies. According to experts via De Telegraaf, the dog reacts fearfully to men and refuses to be touched from behind. Van Z. vehemently denies having harmed the animal. 'I treated my dog well. The whole street can attest to that,' he told the court. During the hearing, Van Z. said he regrets his actions. 'It was a huge mistake on my part. It was out of unhappiness, loneliness, tension, stress, and setbacks,' he said. 'Those are the main reasons why it happened.' The suspect allegedly met a woman online and claimed he had not had sexual intercourse for a long period of time. He said he wanted to use the pony as practice. 'I know it's unacceptable, I lost my job, my sweetheart, and my dog,' he complained. Van Z. is also suspected of abusing his Keeshond dog, a charge he denies. (File photo) 'It's just wrong, I really regret it,' he said. The prosecution is demanding a 15-month prison sentence, eight of which are suspended, with a two-year probationary period and a ban on keeping pets. The Public Prosecution Service is also seeking mandatory treatment. His lawyer, however, is requesting a prison sentence equal to the length of his pretrial detention - 103 days - followed by a strict package of conditions, including mandatory treatment. The verdict is scheduled for August 6. It comes after a 'disgusting' pervert who sneaked into a stable and had sex with a Shetland pony avoided jail in June. Damion Ogeare, 43, was captured on CCTV making a 'beeline' towards the equine stables before emerging some 10 minutes later - without any trousers on. A court heard the man had arrived at the outdoor building armed with a dog lead which he used to restrain the mare, named Cassieopia, in January last year. Pony owner Christine Woolley said she believed Ogeare had 'scoped' out the area in advance of carrying out the 'degrading' assault. The homeowner told the court the incident has left her feeling 'exhausted', 'angry' and 'frustrated'. The volunteer lifeguard who plucked Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner from the water after he drowned in Costa Rica has detailed his final harrowing moments. Warner, who as a teenager played Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, died at 54 in an accidental drowning, local authorities said Monday. He was with his daughter, 8, who was taken to safety on his board by a passing surfer, as reported by ABC News. Volunteer lifeguard Mike Geist told AZ Family he and another surfer also rushed in to help. The volunteers found Warner below the surface, near the ocean floor, Geist said. The surfer then pulled the actor to the surface and started rescue efforts. When Warner did not respond, they pulled him from the water and got additional help. 'There were two doctors that were also here just on vacation,' Geist said. 'Between the three of them, they were able to perform CPR for more than 30 minutes, probably more like 45 minutes, and unfortunately, it was not successful.' Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner was swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when he drowned in Costa Rica. Pictured: Warner with his daughter as a toddler Warner, who as teenage son Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, died at 54 in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica, authorities there said Monday. Pictured: Warner and his daughter in 2020 Costa Ricas Judicial Investigation Department said Warner drowned Sunday afternoon on a beach on Costa Ricas Caribbean coast. He was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. Local officials ruled Warner's cause of death as asphyxiation by submersion. Following Warner's shock death, lifeguards from Playa Grande a beach community located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica released a statement saying they were not present due to lack of 'resources.' 'We deeply regret the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner at Playa Grande. He was swept away by a strong rip current and died by drowning,' the Caribbean Guard, Costa Rica's volunteer lifeguard association, shared via Facebook on Monday. 'It all happened very quickly, and although there were people on the beach who entered the water to rescue him, they did not arrive in time.' 'He was pulled from underwater without vital signs, and despite CPR maneuvers being performed on the beach, resuscitation was unsuccessful.' Volunteer lifeguard Mike Geist recalled the moment he and a volunteer lifeguard found Cosby Show actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner below the surface, near the floor of the ocean The Costa Rican National Police reported that Warners body was discovered near Cocles, a beach in the Limon province (Playa Cocles pictured above) The Guard added that Playa Grande is one of their 'most challenging beaches,' noting the presence of signs in English and Spanish that warn of the 'danger of death due to drowning.' Warner worked for more than 40 years as an actor and director, also starring in the sitcoms Malcolm & Eddie and Read Between the Lines, and in the medical drama The Resident. His final credits came in TV guest roles, including a dramatic four-episode arc last year on the network procedural 9-1-1, where he played a nurse who was a long-term survivor of a terrible fire. Warner played Theo Huxtable for eight seasons, appearing in each of the 197 episodes of The Cosby Show and earning an Emmy nomination for supporting actor in a comedy in 1986. The actor created many TV moments etched in the memories of Generation X children and their parents, including a pilot-episode argument with Cosby about grades and careers, and another episode where Theo tries in vain to hide his ear piercing from his dad. The actor, best known for his role as Theodore Huxtable on the beloved NBC sitcom, appeared in all eight seasons from 1984 to 1992 (seen in 2006) Theo was the only son among four daughters in the household of Cosbys Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashads Clair Huxtable on the NBC sitcom, and he would be one of the prime representations of American teenage life and Black boyhood on a show that was the most popular in America for much of its run from 1984 to 1992. Warner is survived by his wife and young daughter, born in 2017. Their identities have not been revealed. The former first minister of Scotland has claimed Israel is starving his wifes family in Gaza. Humza Yousaf and his wife Nadia El-Nakla said her cousin Sally, her four children and husband were being deliberately and forcefully starved by the Israeli government. Ms El-Nakla, an SNP councillor in Dundee, said her aunt Hanan and her children and grandchildren, including a seven-month-old baby, were also being starved. She said the town of Deir Al Balah, where her family live, was hit hard by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). Posting a video alongside her husband on social media, she said: Starving people were being forced to run while being shot and bombed. Mr Yousaf added: Sally is one of millions in Gaza. Her husband goes out all day searching for food, often to come home with nothing. And when I say home, I mean a tent and almost 40 degree heat. Former First Minister Humza Yousaf claims wife's family is being starved in Gaza by Israel He said that doctors in Gaza were becoming too weak to treat patients while journalists were becoming too weak to report the silent killer of starvation. Ms El-Nakla added: This is a deliberate starvation of the Palestinian people. Food and water are a mere kilometres away. This form of warfare is sickening and the stories and images from my family and millions of others in Gaza are absolutely gut-wrenching. Can you imagine not being able to feed your children yet knowing the food you so desperately need is only a few miles away? Former SNP leader Mr Yousaf urged world leaders to take action to force Israel to allow more aid into Gaza. More than 100 aid agencies have warned that mass starvation is spreading across Gaza as Israel is accused of not allowing enough food, and other supplies, into the area. The health ministry said 10 people have died from malnutrition in the last 24 hours. The UK was among 28 nations that accused Israel of the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians seeking food and water. Mr Yousafs inlaws, Maged and Elizabeth El-Nakla, were trapped in Gaza for four weeks after visiting family when the war broke out after Hamas October 7 attack on Israel. They later left through Egypt with other British nationals, although Mr Yousaf said his father-in-law had become a shell of a man following their traumatic month in the Middle-East. The UK Government and the Israeli embassy in London have been approached for comment. Police have found the body of a Wisconsin graduate student who went missing three days ago as she walked home along the Mississippi River. Eliotte Heinz, 22, vanished in the early hours of Sunday after leaving a bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her body was found Wednesday morning in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, Minnesota, as reported by WBAY. A cause of death remains unclear pending an autopsy, according to officials. 'This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search. Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends and all those who knew Eliotte. 'We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte,' La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said. La Crosse police said they are now looking into the circumstances of her death. Heinz was a graduate student at Viterbo College, where she was enrolled in the schools mental health counseling program. Eliotte Heinz had been with a group of friends at Broncos Bar in the citys downtown area, but left around 2.30am Sunday A photo from the surveillance footage shared by local police shows Heinz walking along the 500 Block of Front St. South at 3:22am on Sunday In an emotional press conference, her mom, Amber Heinz, described her daughter as a smart and responsible person A photo from the surveillance footage shared by local police showed Heinz - dressed in a white t-shirt, cut-off denim shorts, and white sneakers - walking along the waterfront in the 500 block of Front Street South at 3:22am Sunday. In the image, Heinz appeared to be alone and held something in her hand, possibly a cellphone. The footage was captured by a camera outside the Courtyard Marriott Hotel. Heinz's cellphone was later recovered by her friends close to the hotel, a source told the Daily Mail. No further details have been shared, but the discovery came after loved ones made several unsuccessful attempts to reach and locate her, her family has since confirmed to Fox News. Less than an hour before her last sighting, Heinz had been enjoying an evening out with friends at Broncos Bar in the citys downtown area, but left around 2.30am when the bar closed. Where she spent the 50 minutes between leaving the bar and being captured on the hotels security feed is not clear. The bar and the hotel are just 0.4 miles apart. Heinzs mother, Amber Heinz, said her daughter was on her way to her apartment when she disappeared. The journey should've taken Heinz around 30 minutes, but she never made it back. Heinz was working on her doctorate in psychology at Viterbo College Local law enforcement had been searching near the Mississippi River, using drones and dive units Heinzs family realized something was wrong when they couldnt reach her by phone later Sunday morning. Local law enforcement had been searching near the Mississippi River, using drones and dive units to scour along shorelines close to where the last-known image of Heinz was captured. Heinzs family described her as responsible, kind, and deeply loved. Her sudden disappearance is completely out of character, the family shared. We just want Eliotte home. This nightmare has shaken us to the core. During an emotional press conference on Monday, Heinzs brother, Brett Heinz, said her disappearance is, tearing our family apart'. Everyone is just really messed up right now, he said. We dont know where Eliotte is. We need to find her. A federal judge spectacularly denied the Trump administration request to release highly-secretive grand jury testimony from the Jeffrey Epstein case. Obama-appointed Judge Robin Rosenberg slapped down the request from Attorney General Pam Bondi to unseal proceedings related to Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The move comes as a blow to Trump's MAGA base as they demand all details of the investigation into the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender be made public. Trump's Justice Department had argued that making the documents public is a 'matter of public interest' and demanded preexisting protective orders be thrown out. Judge Rosenberg of the Southern District of Florida said that even the current government is aware that 'the court's hands are tied.' She explained that district courts are prohibited from unsealing grand jury testimony except for in very specific circumstances. The judge also noted that the Trump administration did not request the grand jury's testimony for use in a judicial proceeding and it did not meet the exceptions requirement outlines by law. The DOJ also filed a motion in the case against Epstein's longtime associate and friend Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving her sex trafficking sentence while also appealing her case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Republicans are separately subpoenaing Maxwell to appear for public testimony to provide more details on Epstein's exploits. President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi were handed a blow on Wednesday when their request for unsealing grand jury testimony in the Jeffrey Epstein case was denied. Pressure is still mounting on the administration to deliver on its key campaign promise to put out documents related to the disgraced pedophile Judge Robin Rosenberg of the Southern District of Florida denied the Trump administration request to unseal grand jury testimony in the high profile case And Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanch is preparing to meet 'in the coming days' with Maxwell to find out what she knows that could help the DOJ get to the bottom of the elusive case. According to an exclusive Daily Mail/JL Partners poll out Wednesday, the Epstein drama, although taking over the news cycle, is not impacting how Americans view the president. Forty-nine percent of voters now approve of Trump's job performance as president, up one point from the tracking survey conducted earlier in July. But the pressure is still mounting on the administration to deliver on its key campaign promise to put out documents related to the disgraced pedophile. Trump finally gave into the pressure on Thursday night when he instructed Bondi to make more materials public. 'Based on the ridiculous amount of publicity given to Jeffrey Epstein, I have asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to produce any and all pertinent Grand Jury testimony, subject to Court approval,' he wrote on his Truth Social account. Bondi started that process on Friday by filing with the Southern District of New York to unseal the highly-secretive grand jury court documents in the case. The grand jury information is only a part of the evidence that makes up the so-called Epstein files. Trump's vow to unseal more information came after the Wall Street Journal published a 50th birthday card it said he allegedly sent to Epstein in 2003. The president denies he wrote the letter and threatened to sue the publication. The direction to unseal files came the same day that White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that Trump had no interest in appointing a special counsel to review the investigation. In Friday's filing there are no requests to unseal the search warrants, which are also at the center of the case, or any other documents that might yield more substantive details of the investigation. DOJ insiders tell the Daily Mail they believe search warrants are a key to the case and could provide insight into why more evidence was not initially seized and why some evidence Americans are looking for may no longer exist. Trump's order to Bondi on Thursday suggests that his attorney general was not already authorized to ask the court to unseal the grand jury materials. If done from the jump, the process could have been in motion months ago rather than just starting. What it really means is that Americans may have to wait months or even years to get more answers if they get them at all. The unsealing of grand jury testimony presents a lot of obstacles and is perhaps one of the more difficult pieces of information to unseal in a case considering stringent secrecy rules that many courts are hesitant to lift. The instruction to Bondi comes after the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that Trump sent a birthday card to Epstein in 2003 that included a hand-drawn images of the outline of a naked women. Trump socialized with Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell (right) in the 1980s and 1990s Trump instructed Thursday, July 17 that Bondi unseal grand jury testimony in the Epstein case The WSJ reported on Thursday that Trump's alleged birthday card to Epstein in 2003 featured a hand-drawn outline of a naked woman along with a signature 'Donald.' The typewritten message read: 'Happy Birthday - and may every day be another wonderful secret.' Trump is threatening a lawsuit against the newspaper and its owner Rupert Murdoch. 'The Wall Street Journal printed a fake letter, supposedly to Epstein. These are not my words, not the way I talk,' Trump posted to Truth Social. 'Also, I don't draw pictures.' Trump said he told Murdoch the letter was a 'scam,' but that he printed the story anyway. 'I'm going to sue his a** off,' the president wrote. It appears Trump is now fed up with the continued narrative around Epstein and the untiring demand even from his base for more to be released. Earlier this month, the president repeatedly pleaded with his supporters to stop focusing on what he now calls the 'Jeffrey Epstein hoax.' He posted on Truth Social multiple times claiming the claims of a 'client list' and other conspiracies surrounding Epstein were made up by Democrats to stoke division in MAGA world. Tulsi Gabbard unleashed a barrage of shocking charges against Hillary Clinton on Wednesday, claiming that she was on 'heavy tranquilizers' and was dealing with 'psycho emotional problems' during the 2016 election. Gabbard, who is President Donald Trump's director of National Intelligence, said Russia President Vladimir Putin had that information and planned to use it against Clinton when she was serving as president. The information was in the September 2020 report by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence on Russia's attempts to influence the election that Gabbard declassified on Wednesday. 'This report shows Putin held back leaking, held back from leaking compromising material on Hillary Clinton prior to the election, instead planning to release it after the election,' Gabbard said. The declassified report also claims that Clinton suffered from severe health ailments like type 2 diabetes and ischemic heart disease. It also claimed that Clinton - who then was serving as Obama's secretary of state -had her government aides hold secret meetings with religious leaders where they were offered 'significant increases in funding' from the State Department in return for their political support in the election. 'The intelligence community intentionally suppressed intelligence that showed Putin was saving the most damaging material that he had in his possession about Hillary Clinton until after her potential and likely victory,' Gabbard said. 'There were high-level DNC emails that detailed evidence of Hillary's, quote, psycho emotional problems, uncontrolled fits of anger, aggression and cheerfulness, and that then Secretary Clinton was allegedly on a daily regimen of heavy tranquilizers,' she added. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard levied a series of shocking charges against Hillary Clinton Clinton did have a public health scare during the 2016 contest. She swooned and stumbled at a Sept. 11 commemoration in New York in an incident captured on cell phone video. It showed Clinton wobbling and being lifted into the vehicle by her aides after leaving a memorial service at the site of the 2001 World Trade Center attack. The Clinton campaign later said she was diagnosed with pneumonia. And her doctor, a few days later, declared Clinton 'healthy and fit to serve' as president. She had other health scares. In January 2011, when on an official trip to Yemen, Clinton tripped and fell on the plane stairs as she was departing the country. The declassified House report made a slew of charges about Clinton, including As of September 2016, the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) had Democratic National Committee (DNC) information that President Obama and party leaders found the state of Secretary Clinton's health to be 'extraordinarily alarming' and felt it could have 'serious negative impact' on her election prospects. Her health information was being kept in 'strictest secrecy' and even close advisors were not being fully informed The SVR possessed DNC communications that Clinton was suffering from 'intensified psychoemotional problems, including uncontrolled fits of anger, aggression. and cheerfulness.' Clinton was placed on a daily regimen of 'heavy tranquilizers' and while afraid of losing, she remained 'obsessed with a thirst for power.' The SVR also had information that Clinton suffered from 'Type 2 diabetes, Ischemic heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.' The SVR possessed a campaign email discussing a plan approved by Secretary Clinton to link Putin and Russian hackers to candidate Trump in order to 'distract the [American] public' from the Clinton email server scandal. The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) in August had details of secret meetings with multiple named US religious organizations, in which US State Department representatives offered-in exchange for supporting Secretary Clinton- 'significant increases in financing' from Department funds and 'the patronage' of State in dealing with 'post-Soviet' countries. Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton in their October 2016 presidential debate Clinton has not publicly responded to the charges. And Gabbard charged former President Barack Obama with driving a 'false' narrative that Russia wanted Trump to win the election. Obama has denied this. 'The evidence that we have found and that we have released directly points to President Obama leading the manufacturing of this intelligence assessment. There are multiple pieces of evidence and intelligence that confirm that fact,' Gabbard said. She declined, when asked, to say if Obama was guilty of treason, noting she would leave decisions on criminal charges to the Department of Justice. Gabbard has been releasing a slew of reports that claim former President Barack Obama and his administration were part of a 'treasonous conspiracy' to allege Russia interfered in the 2016 election on Trump's behalf. She claims Obama was behind a smear campaign to sew doubt about Trump's 2016 victory. 'President Obama directed an intelligence community assessment to be created to further this contrived false narrative that ultimately led to a years long coup to try to undermine President Trump's presidency,' Gabbard said. Gabbard specifically charged Obama's CIA director John Brennan as the leading figure behind the 'conspiracy' to undermine Trump's first term. She repeatedly claimed Russia was preparing for a Clinton victory in 2016 and were preparing to release it after she won. 'They specifically withheld what they had on her, the most damning information, because they thought she would win he election. They had plans to release it, just prior to her inauguration ... to discord and chaos in America,' she said. President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton on the campaign trail in Philadelphia during the 2016 presidential election President Trump has seized on the new information and accused his Democratic rivals of organizing a failed 'coup' in 2016. 'They tried to rig the election and they got caught and there should be really severe consequences,' he said on Tuesday. Trump has long argued that the FBI counterintelligence probe that began during the 2016 election was the start of a 'coup' to prevent him from taking office. He also issued an extraordinary call to investigate the former president accusing his predecessor of 'treason.' 'After what they did to me, whether it's right or wrong, it's time to go after people,' Trump said in the Oval Office on Tuesday. Obama fired back at the 'bizarre allegations' coming from Trump. His office dismissed the claims as another example of the constant 'nonsense and misinformation' that emanates out of the White House. 'Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes,' his post-presidency office said in a statement. Police are pursuing triple murder and attempted suicide as a line of inquiry after two children and a woman died died of gunshot wounds. The tragic deaths of the trio - all from the same household - occurred in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland on Wednesday, where a man was also found with serious injuries. He was taken to hospital following the incident in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge. Police were called to the scene as it unfolded - with a top cop describing what his officers encountered as 'harrowing'. Three ambulances and an air ambulance were called to the scene at about 8.20am today, where a woman and one of the children were pronounced dead. An individual was airlifted by air ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast while another was taken to the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said on Wednesday afternoon that one of those taken to hospital - another child - had also since succumbed to their injuries. One of the children was a boy and the other a girl. Superintendent Robert McGowan, district commander for Fermanagh and Omagh, confirmed that all four individuals had suffered gunshot wounds and were from the same family. Their ages have not been released. Police are pursuing a triple murder and attempted suicide as a line of inquiry after two children and a woman died in a shooting incident The scene in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge, County Fermanagh, this morning The tragic deaths occurred in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland on Wednesday and a man has also been left with serious injuries He confirmed that a murder probe was underway, with detectives working 'at pace' to establish the full circumstances of the tragedy. A triple-murder and attempted suicide is being pursued as a line of inquiry. Police earlier said there was no danger posed to the wider public in the aftermath of the incident, which has shocked the rural community just a few miles north of the UK-Ireland border. 'Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has, this afternoon, passed away in hospital,' Supt McGowan said. 'A fourth person who was taken to hospital remains in a condition described as serious. 'All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household. 'I am keen to, first and foremost, express my sympathy to family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock, and who will inevitably be struggling to come to terms with their unimaginable loss.' Superintendent McGowan continued: 'The Police Service has now commenced a murder investigation and detectives are working at pace to determine the circumstances. 'This is a quiet, rural location and I am aware that this tragic event will have sent waves of sadness throughout the community. Please be assured that you will see a continued police presence in the area, as we continue to carry out our enquiries. Superintendent Robert McGowan, (pictured) district commander for Fermanagh and Omagh, confirmed that all four individuals had suffered gunshot wounds and were from the same family A number of marked and unmarked vehicles could be seen inside the cordon on Drummeer Road and police described the scene they found as 'harrowing' Deborah Erskine (pictured), a Democratic Unionist Party assembly member for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, said the incident has 'stunned the entire community' 'Our enquiries are at an early stage, and I would appeal for patience as we work to understand the events that have taken place. We will continue to bring updates as our investigation continues.' Anyone with information or CCTV footage is asked to contact PSNI on 101, quoting reference 276 of 23/07/25. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said it received a 999 call at 8.21am and dispatched three emergency ambulances, one rapid response paramedic, two ambulance officers and an ambulance doctor to the scene. Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: 'I'm absolutely heartbroken by the news from Maguiresbridge today. My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and the local community. 'I have no doubt that the people of Maguiresbridge will come together and support one another through this incredibly difficult time.' Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Pat Cullen expressed her deep shock, saying: 'Firstly my thoughts are with the victims and their families at this tragic time. The Sinn Fein representative added: 'I am in contact with the police around this ongoing situation. 'Police are currently at the scene of an incident outside Maguiresbridge and there are a number of road closures while they carry out their investigations. I would urge people to not speculate on the details of this tragic and shocking incident.' Deborah Erskine, a Democratic Unionist Party assembly member for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, said the incident has 'stunned the entire community'. 'The area of Maguiresbridge where this has happened is a rural, quiet area and everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning,' she added. 'My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning. 'This morning I was speaking to police dealing with the incident. I paid tribute to the emergency services at the scene. I also appeal for privacy to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations.' A Texas woman who allegedly stole $16 million from desperate couples in order to launch a rap career has been ordered to pay some of the cash back. Dominique Side, 45, was sued by 37 couples who had paid her to organize a surrogate so they could have children. They allegedly discovered that she had instead used their money to fund a lavish lifestyle of designer clothes, luxury vacations and a recording studio as she sought to become a music star. Side, the former owner of Houston-based Surrogacy Escrow Account Management (SEAM) failed to respond to a legal filing seeking damages, leading to a partial judgement signed last week by Judge Donna Roth. The affected families, some of whom can't have children because of cancer and autoimmune diseases, will now be rewarded $1,045,158 in damages, according to the lawsuit obtained by KTRK. Marianne Robak, the attorney representing the victims, said her clients are just some of the families from around the globe, as people in China, Egypt and France have also allegedly been scammed by Side. 'Some of them had surrogates that were currently at the time pregnant with their babies, and they had no way to pay for their medical care,' Robak told the outlet. Robak said that since Side's co-defendant and business partner, Anthony Hall, did respond to the lawsuit, the case will have to head to trial before the families are paid. Dominique Side, 45, was sued by 37 couples in 2024 after they discovered she used the money they put towards surrogacy toward her own lavish lifestyle, including the launch of her rap career Kelly Palladino, with husband Daniel, opted for surrogacy after struggling to conceive because of multiple autoimmune diseases but payments from her account stopped after a month She is confident she will get the full $1.7 million her clients are seeking when it's over. Other than the payout, Robak said she has also frozen Side's assets, including her music equipment and real estate. 'Once these judgments become final, we will be able to go after those assets, liquidate them, and help these families become whole,' the lawyer added. Robak anticipates a trial to kick off next summer as the FBI investigation into Side remains ongoing. A civil lawsuit against Side, her business partner and their production company claims a total of more than $16 million in escrow funds have disappeared, the Houston Chronicle reported. Heartbroken couples shared their anguish after claiming they were left high and dry by Side's alleged antics. Jenna and Roy Copeland, a Georgia based couple, told GMA that they lost approximately $40,000 with Surrogacy Escrow Account Management. 'We sent the money and she walked away with it,' said Chris Perkins Yans, who had to work overtime alongside his husband to pay their surrogate after they claimed $71,000 disappeared. In June 2023 she released her brand 'Nikki Green,' as Side was described as a Sustainability Expert, Luxury Vegan Lifestyle Influencer and Serial Entrepreneur' She allegedly used their hard earned money to fund a lavish lifestyle of designer clothing, luxury vacations and a recording studio in a bid to become a music star 'It's devastating, it's terrifying, you start to feel even more hopeless than you did,' said SEAM client AnnaMaria Gallozzi who chose surrogacy after being diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2019. New York City mom Laura Daniels said she was left scrambling to find $10,000 to pay her surrogate after her funds vanished. 'It's just, it's been so awful and it was occupying so much of my time,' Daniels said. 'I think I smile to keep from crying.'| Kelly Palladino opted for surrogacy after struggling to conceive because of multiple autoimmune diseases. She and husband Daniel from Sarasota, Florida found a surrogate in fall 2023 and deposited $60,000 after arranging to pay her through Side's company. But it was little more than a month before the surrogate alerted them that the payments had stopped. Kelly said that Side repeatedly made excuses before refusing to take their calls. 'We thought this would be a great way to build our family,' Kelly told Fox13. 'She did this knowing what we go through. It's not an easy process and what's coming out is just I never would have thought.' Shortly after her alleged lies were uncovered, people sending messages to her email address received automated responses telling them she is subject to an 'active investigation by federal authorities.' Jenna and Roy Copeland, a Georgia based couple who told GMA that they lost approximately $40,000 with Surrogacy Escrow Account Management AnnaMaria Gallozzi opted for surrogacy after being diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2019 and is 'terrified' that the alleged fraud may have cost her the dream It went on to say that she is, on the advice of counsel, 'not permitted to respond to any inquiries.' Arielle Mitton from Bellingham, Washington, had $38,000 in the account when payments to her surrogate in Indiana stopped in May. 'When people come to surrogacy, it's not a choice,' she said. 'It's not like, 'Oh, this is my first choice. I want to do this.' It's like, 'I don't really have another option'.' 'It feels premeditated to me,' she told Click2Houston. 'How can someone have millions of dollars disappear without some sort of plan?' Not only did Side splurge on expensive trips, studio space and clothing, but she also launched a 'luxury, 100% vegan ready-to-wear apparel line for individuals seeking chic yet sustainable pieces,' Vwire reported. In the June 2023 release of her brand 'Nikki Green,' Side was described as a Sustainability Expert, Luxury Vegan Lifestyle Influencer and Serial Entrepreneur' as she laid across an emerald green couch while wearing a matching pants suit. Arielle Mitton (left) from Bellingham in Washington, with surrogate Tena Doan, had $38,000 in the account when payments to her surrogate stopped in May Caron Parks-Hinton insisted her daughter Dominique Side 'has a conscience' as she denied the allegations against her 'I love luxury, I love designer, but Im constantly searching for quality 100% vegan pieces,' the disgraced business owner said. The website for her clothing brand is no longer active. All of her social media accounts have since been deleted or made private. Side filed for bankruptcy in 2003, and a court seized and sold land owned by SEAM in 2022 over unpaid property taxes. Her mother, Caron Parks-Hinton, previously insisted her daughter 'has a conscience' while denying the allegations against her. In an interview last year with ABC13, her mother said Side was 'struggling' after her company shut down amid an FBI probe. 'She's having a very hard time,' Parks-Hinton told the outlet. 'Because of the type of person she is. She has a conscience.' When pressed on whether she believes her daughter deliberately funneled money out of the escrow account, she emphatically stated, 'No, I don't.' Daily Mail contacted Side for comment. Thousands of soldiers and veterans may be suffering from brain damage from firing heavy weapons, official studies have revealed. Defence chiefs have confirmed for the first time that machineguns and anti-tank weapons emit harmful blast waves which can cause traumatic injuries. Explosions create a wave of overpressure, a spike in the surrounding air pressure above normal atmospheric levels. The impulse can be so strong it penetrates the skull. Once inside the brain, the energy causes microscopic damage to blood vessels and neurons. Repeated exposure can overwhelm the brains ability to heal itself, causing serious long-term neurological damage, according to researchers at the University of Birmingham. Symptoms of blast-related TBI overlap with those of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), making it difficult to diagnose. These may include: severe headaches, visual disturbances, sensitivity to noise and light, memory loss and a sense of personality change. A Paratrooper fires a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) which could cause blast injuries Army Air Corps soldier fires a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) which could cause blast damage Speaking to ITV, Lieutenant Colonel James Mitchell said: If we go back twenty years to the early Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns the perception was that we were seeing concussion and mild Traumatic Brain Injury predominantly from impact and exposure to substantial blast. Over especially the last five to ten years we are starting to appreciate the role of what we call 'low level blast', this is predominantly exposure of our service personnel to blast overpressure from our own weapon systems. Lt Col Mitchell, a Royal Army Medical Service neurologist, added that while exact figures were not known, thousands of serving personnel have been exposed to harmful blasts, with figures potentially even higher for veterans affected. Most at risk are those who have been repeatedly exposed to heavy weapons, including mortars, some shoulder-launched anti-tank weapons, 50-calibre rifles and machine guns, or explosive charges. The University of Birmingham is playing a key role in the mTBI Predict study in partnership with the Ministry of Defence. Neuroscientist Professor Lisa Hill said when the brain is damaged, it releases biomarkers, biological clues that can help scientists understand what and where the damage is happening. She said: If somebody gets injured, it changes the structure and function of the brain, but it also releases chemicals that you wouldnt normally see. So if we can measure things in blood or in their saliva, that can tell us how potentially bad their injury has been and what symptoms they might go on to get. Professor Karen Mullinger, an expert in neuro-imaging at Nottingham University, is working to identify patterns of damage with sophisticated brain scanning technology called OPM MEG. Professor Mullinger also plans to study soldiers in real time, to see which activities are highest risk. She said: We can scan these soldiers before they go and do a training exercise and then immediately after, then we get a baseline which is specific to them. If the wire paths have been damaged by blasts or whatever else it might be, then the function is going to change. The information collected from these trials could shape policy, such as modifying the most damaging weapons or reducing blast exposure in training exercises. Last night, the MOD said: The health and wellbeing of our Armed Forces is critical and we provide specialist medical treatment for Traumatic Brain Injuries at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre. We know blast exposure causes physical change or injury in the brain that is only now becoming detectable and recognised with recent advances in the field, and we know there are alleged long-term effects of this exposure, but causation has not yet been shown and is the subject of much ongoing research. Using the latest research and advanced technology, the UK and our international partners are actively working on advancing the diagnosis, management and rehabilitation of patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. This includes over 4m in funding for the latest advanced research, which will help both military and civilian patients. A medical consultant broke down in tears while being quizzed at a landmark employment tribunal. Dr Kate Searle, a consultant in emergency medicine, sobbed as she defended her actions in the dispute between trans medic Dr Beth Upton and veteran nurse Sandie Peggie. At one point proceedings were halted to allow Dr Searle, who has worked for NHS Fife for 11 years, to compose herself. It came during an intensive day of cross-examination of the trans medics boss by Ms Peggies legal team as part of the high-profile employment tribunal brought against NHS Fife and Dr Upton. The nurse was suspended from her work at Victoria Hospital, in Kirkcaldy, after she challenged the 30-year-old doctor in the female-only changing room on Christmas Eve 2023. Last week the 51-year-old was cleared of gross misconduct but the separate employment tribunal continues. Ms Peggie brought the legal action saying her treatment is against the Equality Act. Dr Upton has alleged that there have been patient safety concerns involving the nurse. Dr Kate Searle, a consultant in emergency medicine, sobbed as she defended her actions Nurse Sandie Peggie, above, brought the employment tribunal against NHS Fife and Dr Upton Ms Peggie challenged trans medic Dr Upton, above, when the doctor used the female-only changing room at Victoria Hospital, in Kirkcaldy, on Christmas Eve 2023 A healthcare assistant is said to be witness to one of two claimed incidents but when the workers name was mentioned Dr Searle began sobbing, and told the court: I am worried involving someone who doesnt want to be involved in the press in this case. Its not fair on her. The hearing was brought to a halt, but resumed about five minutes later. Ms Peggies lawyer, Naomi Cunningham, told the tribunal the healthcare assistant was an important witness in the investigation because she was the only person who was able to shed any light on Dr Uptons allegation the claimant refused to engage with the medic in relation to a patient who had gone away without being seen. But she said the healthcare assistants account contradicted Dr Uptons stance who said there had been no conversation while the worker remembered there being one. The tribunal then heard of a subsequent discussion between the consultant and healthcare assistant, but Dr Searle could not remember when. Dr Searle said she sought out the worker because she was supporting Dr Upton and the medic had identified her as witnessing one of the incidents which needed evidence. Ms Cunningham said the consultant had been determinedly acting on Dr Uptons behalf to try to round up evidence in support of Dr Uptons version of events, but Dr Searle told her she asked to see if her story supported Beths. Amid the intense cross-examination the lawyer put it to the witnesses: Were you horrified when I mentioned her name, not out of a desire to protect her but out of a desire to protect yourself from the possible consequences of making up something about what shed said? Dr Searle told her: No, absolutely not. Dr Kate Searle, above, also gave evidence at the tribunal on Tuesday At this point NHS Fife KC Jane Russell said the witness had become visibly distressed, but Dr Searle said she could continue with her evidence. The alleged patient safety incidents were not reported at the time they were said to have happened, and Dr Searle said she did not agree with Ms Cunninghams suggestion that this was the case because they didnt happen. Dr Searle said it was offensive and objectional to have challenged Dr Upton in the womens changing room. She told Ms Cunningham: If everybody was just kind to each other and went about these things in another way, there was no reason for it to come to this. Dr Searle had sent an email to other consultants working in the hospitals emergency department - in which she condemned Ms Peggies actions. But Ms Cunningham said the consultant had left confidentiality in ruins by sending that email while an investigation was ongoing adding the conversation with the healthcare worker was a flagrant breach in confidentiality. Dr Searle admitted: In hindsight, yes. The tribunal also heard Ms Russell object to Dr Upton being called a man by Ms Cunningham, but insist shes a trans woman. Ms Cunningham said the For Women Scotland Supreme Court ruling in April meant legally speaking a trans woman is a man so there was a man in the womens changing room, but Ms Russell said she disagreed with that summary. Put to the witness that Dr Upton was obviously male, Dr Searle said no and that she would not have known what sex Dr Upton was assigned at birth. Meanwhile, employment judge Sandy Kemp yesterday said he would not issue an order against NHS Fife following their stunning intervention in the case last week. Mr Kemp said: I have considered the press release issued by the first respondent on July 18, 2025, which had been addressed in submission by the parties, and it was decided to make no order in relation to it. The tribunal, being heard in Dundee, continues. Foreign tourists in Paris are being charged as much as 50 per cent more than French customers, an undercover investigation has found. The city's leading newspaper, Le Parisien, found that several tourists from outside of France had been posting complaints online about being overcharged. So they sent out a Parisian on the Champ-de-Mars near the Eiffel Tower. They also dressed up one of their reporters as an American tourist and directed them to the same cafe to reveal exactly what was happening at the holidaymaker hotspots. But what they stumbled across was shocking. They both seated themselves at the unnamed diner and ordered the same dish - lasagna, a Coke and water. All the while they had been filming themselves. The clearly 'French' customer was served a can of Coke for 6.50 (5.63) and offered a carafe of water along with his dish. However, the 'American' was not offered a small can, only a 'medium or large Coke'. Le Parisien dressed up one of their reporters as an American tourist to see if they would be charged more than a Parisian in a cafe Foreign tourists in Paris are being charged as much as 50 per cent more than French customers, the undercover investigation found When it arrived, it was just half a litre and cost 9.50 (8.23). As for the water, the 'American' received no offer for a carafe, which is free, but was instead made to spend a further 6 (5.20) for a small bottle of Vittel. The server also offered the 'American' a side of garlic bread without specifying that it was an extra. They were later charged a further 6 (5.20). The pair then walked to a different nearby cafe-restaurant to test its policy on tipping. When the bill arrived, the French customer noticed their receipt included an obligatory ten per cent service charge. But the 'American' tourist was asked if he wanted to tip as 'service isn't included'. And to make matters worse, when he agreed to add a 10 per cent tip via the card machine, he noticed the waiter had discreetly hidden the amount and increased this to 15 per cent. But this is not the first time Paris has used elaborate scams to make the most out of their hapless tourists. Last month, Paris cafes were caught cheating unsuspecting suspects out of good-quality wine. An undercover sommelier ordered a glass of Chablis costing around 9 (7.65), but the wine being served was actually the cheapest on the menu a 5 (4.25) sauvignon. Shockingly, the customer was then charged the higher amount. Wine merchant Marina Giuberti said: 'It's a pity for the customer and for the image of the wine appellation, for the winemaker and for the restaurant owners who do a good job.' The clearly 'French' customer was served a can of Coke for for 6.50 (5.63) and offered a carafe of water along with his dish A number of American tourists quizzed by Le Parisien on restaurant rules thought that you always had to pay for water, as that was their experience. 'Usually they bring a bottle of water, you have to pay for even when we say still,' said one French woman. Franck Trouet of the hotel and restaurant umbrella group GHR said: 'It's a disgrace to the profession. You can't even call these people waiters. 'You should know that in France, water and bread are free. One can refuse a bottle of water. The tip is to express thanks for the service if one is very satisfied. Above all, it is not compulsory. This is not the United States'. He added that waiters' eagerness to increase the tip had been pushed when French President Emmanuel Macron decided to waive taxes on 'le pourboire'. Now, tips made in French restaurants and cafes using a bank card are no longer taxable. The increased usage of electronic pay machines that automatically suggest a tip of at least five per cent has supercharged the trend to try and make more from paying customers. It comes after a popular Greek tourist resort was recently labelled the 'ultimate rip-off' for drinks. One of Greece's prettiest spots, the ancient Old Town of Rhodes, was red flagged as a major hotspot for overcharging tourists, according to reviews on Google and TripAdvisor. The area's narrow network of streets are filled with places to imbibe everything from local Dodecanese beer to shots of ouzo, but according to some disgruntled tourists, a visit to Rhodes' Old Town also leaves visitors vulnerable to inflated prices - with a string of bars accused of 'scamming' tourists. Donald Trump's spy chief Tulsi Gabbard has climbed from being on the outs to being the 'hottest' person in his orbit now that she has released a trove of explosive intelligence material targeting his predecessor's administration. 'She's like, hotter than everybody,' Trump told Republican lawmakers about his Director of National Intelligence during a White House reception Tuesday night. By Wednesday morning, Gabbard was handed the plum role of taking the podium in the White House briefing room an unusual perch for a DNI, who typically deals with dense reports and sifts through the products of the nation's intelligence services. She accused former President Barack Obama like herself a Hawaii native who shares her former political party of overseeing a 'years-long coup and a treasonous conspiracy against the American people, our republic and an attempt to undermine President Trump's administration.' Trump, too, has accused Obama of treason, and the White House says the officials identified in Gabbards declassified materials should be investigated. It marks a swift and astonishing turnaround for Gabbard, who just months ago appeared to be at odds with a key move inside the Trump administration toward confronting Iran. Gabbard testified to Congress in March that the intelligence community believed Iran hadn't decided to build a nuclear weapon. That put her at odds with Trump as he prepared to join Israel's effort to try to take out Iran's nuclear program. Of Gabbard's assessment, Trump flat-out said, 'she's wrong.' 'Hotter than everybody': President Donald Trump praised DNI Tulsi Gabbard at an event with Republican House members Tuesday night The split had Gabbard reportedly sidelined in the Trump administration's discussions about its options in the ongoing war between Iran and Israel, after she posted a controversial video. The video from her trip to Hiroshima, Japan, in early June showed a simulation of San Francisco getting bombed and warning about imminent 'nuclear annihilation,' angering some Trump officials. Gabbard's climb back into Trump's good graces began this past Friday, when she published partially redacted intelligence documents she said revealed a 'treasonous conspiracy' against Trump in 2016. The president lauded her Tuesday night hours after she would put out another document dump. 'She's the hottest one in the room right now because she found out. ... I think we knew it before, in all fairness, Tulsi, but now you have certainty,' Trump said. 'She has all the documents. She has everything that you need. And she found out that Barack Hussein Obama led a group of people, and they cheated in the elections, and they cheated without question.' At Wednesday's White House press briefing, Gabbard got asked point blank by CNN's Kaitlan Collins if she was only releasing the latest documents 'to improve your standing with the president after he said that your intelligence assessments were wrong.' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded by saying only those trying to 'sow distrust and chaos' believe that. Trump regularly calls the U.S. the 'hottest country' in the world His praise for Gabbard came after she produced declassified documents Trump used to accuse Barack Obama of 'treason.' Obama called it 'ridiculous' and a 'distraction' Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has released a 2020 report by the Republican-run House Intel Committee that picks apart a 2017 Intelligence Community assessment of Russian election interference. In March her testimony about Iran clashed with a move toward confronting Tehran 'She has all the documents. She has everything that you need. And she found out that Barack Hussein Obama led a group of people, and they cheated in the elections,' Trump said, praising Gabbard Gabbard on Wednesday declassified another tranche of documents about the 2016 elections after President Donald Trump accused Barack Obama of 'treason' and said he should be investigated. She ordered the release of a 2020 report by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence on Russia's attempts to influence the 2016 presidential election. Although Trump won that election, he has long railed against what he calls the Russia 'hoax' cooked up by Democrats to try and link his campaign to the foreign adversary. Accusations of collusion with Russia marred his first term in the White House, but the Mueller report didn't find that the Trump campaign or anyone associated with it 'conspired or coordinated with the Russian government.' Trump is now calling for investigations of top Obama national security officials at the time while referring to the ex-president as the leader of a 'gang' out to get him. His push comes amid growing divisions among MAGA supporters over the administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, with calls for more document releases and DOJ interviews amid cover-up allegations. The House Intelligence Committee report, led by Trump ally Devin Nunes, found credible intelligence that Putin ordered influence operations by leaking hacked emails. However, it disputed a 2017 assessment that Putin clearly preferred Trump, a point Trump has long rejected. The declassified 2017 report criticized the Intelligence Community Assessment on Russia's 2016 election interference for subpar analytic standards. The report blamed Obama's administration for pressuring the CIA to produce a rushed assessment by only five analysts, leading to errors and misrepresentations. Gabbard recently accused Obama of a 'treasonous conspiracy,' though critics question her understanding of the CIA reports. CIA Director Ratcliffe released a more nuanced review, acknowledging conflicting intelligence that Putin was 'ambivalent' about his candidate preference. An Obama spokesman dismissed these claims as baseless, affirming Russia's interference but denying vote manipulation. Meanwhile, Epstein revelations have overshadowed these debates and divided MAGA supporters. Senator Mark Warner highlighted the disparity in document transparency, noting the Trump administration is willing to declassify many items except Epstein files. Bryan Kohberger's lookalike sister Amanda donned an eye-catching crimson dress as she traveled to Idaho to watch her killer brother get imprisoned for life. Amanda stared stonily ahead as she exited the courtroom in Boise Wednesday, delivering a glare that hauntingly resembled the expression Kohberger sported in court. She and mom MaryAnn traveled from their home in Pennsylvania to witness the conclusion of one of the most infamous crimes of the 21st century. They were escorted from the courtroom by police after and did not make any statement. Kohberger's family watched as relatives of the four students murdered by Kohberger in Moscow, Idaho in November 2022 lined up to heap insults and scorn upon him. Judge Stephen Hippler was equally uncompromising, accusing Kohberger of 'grotesque evil' as he ordered him imprisoned. Kohberger was handed a life sentence for each life he took - one for Madison Mogen, a second for Kaylee Goncalves, a third for Ethan Chapin and the final one for Xana Kernodle, all aged just 19 or 20 at the time of their deaths. His mother MaryAnn is understood to have 'shuddered' with emotion during today's sentencing. Amanda Kohberger appeared stoic and distraught as she exited the courtroom, delivering a glare that hauntingly resembled the expression her killer brother sported in court Bryan Kohberger is seen being led out of court Wednesday after being handed four life sentences for each life he took - one for Madison Mogen, a second for Kaylee Goncalves, a third for Ethan Chapin and the final one for Xana Kernodle In a chilling coincidence, Amanda - a former actress - once starred in a gory slasher movie where young students were brutally hacked to death on a camping trip. She portrayed 'Lori' in the low-budget thriller 'Two Days Back' in 2011 with characters being stabbed and slashed with knives and hatchets. The film's plot bares chilling similarities to her brother's crime - attacking four students as they slept in the remote college town of Moscow, Idaho. The horror film shows the group being murdered one by one by a maniac killer who won over their trust but Kohberger's sister is one of the few to survive the slayings. Similarly, Kohberger spared two housemates when he carried out his rampage on November 12, 2022. The Kohberger family issued a statement just days after his arrest, saying they would be standing by him. The statement said they 'care deeply for the four families who have lost their precious children' and that they were cooperating fully with the investigation. They added that 'as a family we will love and support our son and brother.' Kohberger's sister Amanda, their mother MaryAnn and his defense attorney Anne Taylor were escorted out of the Ada County Courthouse by police after the intense hearing Amanda, a former actress, portrayed 'Lori' in the low-budget thriller 'Two Days Back' in 2011 with characters being stabbed and slashed with knives and hatchets Amanda was fired from her acting job shortly after Kohberger's arrest in 2023 But the family - especially his sisters - faced a multitude of troubles after his arrest. Amanda, who was working as an actress at the time, and their sister Melissa, a school counselor, were both let go from their jobs. Amanda has since landed a new job as a counselor close to the family's home. Public records show she got her Pennsylvania social work license in June last year. Kohberger has never explained his motive for carrying out the murders. He sat passively in court Wednesday as he heard heart-wrenching statements from families of the four students he stabbed to death. He was asked if he'd like to address the court, but in a frighteningly forceful voice said: 'I respectfully decline.' Quadruple murderer Bryan Kohberger and his former actress sister Amanda bear a striking resemblance Pictured left to right: Housemates Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke in 2022 Kohberger sat impassively as his sentence was passed. The initial part of the hearing had seen the families of his victims confront him. Handing down four life sentences without the possibility of parole, Hippler said the heartbroken families may never know why Kohberger killed their loved ones. 'The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave,' he said. 'In my view, the time has now come to end Mr Kohberger's 15 minutes of fame. 'It's time that he been consigned to the ignominy and isolation of perpetual incarceration. Kohberger was studying for a doctorate degree in criminology at Washington State University in 2022 when he drove to the small town of Moscow, Idaho and broke into the victims' shared house. He went from room to room stabbing four of the six occupants to death. Kohberger was arrested at his parents' house in Pennsylvania thousands of miles away on December 30 that year, after DNA found on a knife sheath was traced to him. The sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Alivea, delivered a searing statement at the sentencing Tuesday, demanding Kohberger explain himself and tearing him down as a 'loser' Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen sobbed as she addressed the 30-year-old killer, and described him as 'less than human' He continued to deny the charges, despite mounting evidence, and appeared set to go to trial until this month when a shock plea deal was announced - sparing him the death pentrly. Not all families were happy with the agreement, with the Goncalves family saying it was 'shocking and cruel' that he would not face a firing squad. 'After more than two years, this is how it concludes with a secretive deal and a hurried effort to close the case without any input from the victims' families on the plea's details,' the family wrote in a statement when the deal was announced. 'Bryan Kohberger facing life in prison means he would still get to speak, form relationships, and engage with the world. Meanwhile, our loved ones have been silenced forever,' they said. Friends and family of the victims attending the sentencing on Wednesday paid tribute to their loved ones, while many dismissed Kohberger as a 'failure' or said they hoped fellow prisoners would mete out justice. Others said they had faith that God would punish him. 'Man, you're going to go to hell,' Kernodle's stepfather Randy Davis told Kohberger, shaking with rage. 'You're evil. There's no place for you in heaven. You took our children. You are going to suffer, man.' It was a balmy May 2011 day in Edinburgh and, down at Holyrood and after the latest Scottish parliament election and in alphabetical order all the MSPs, one at a time, were being sworn in. They sashayed down alternate ramps, hoisted in turn a right paw, and obediently repeated, clause by clause, the rubric read out to them. An alarming number merely affirm they dont do God. Theres always some showboating. Folk who prate, in prefix, of their true loyalty to the people of Scotland, or who insist in repeating the whole rite in Gaelic, Catalan or Klingon. But when a venerable Conservative MSP for the Highlands and Islands sailed down to renew his troth to Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors according to law, we leaned forward in the cheap seats, sure something was poised to go wrong. In the event it took five stumbling attempts, each ever more desperate, before he finally managed to pronounce his own name. And, alas, I, Sir James Angus Rhoderick Neil McGrigor had an awful lot of name. When he finally crested that Everest, to the last syllable, there was whooping and thunderous applause, for he was on all sides of the chamber very much beloved. Sir Jamie, who died peacefully last Sunday, was often underestimated. He was a talented guitarist, a natural comic, and the first MSP to pilot a Private Members Bill in his case, establishing a national registry of tartans onto the Holyrood statute book. Sir James McGrigor was beloved on all sides of the chamber, writes John MacLeod You wouldnt get a Margo MacDonald in either parliament these days, writes John MacLeod Few such characters make it onto Westminster or Holyrood ballots today. They are seldom allowed to. The days when a local constituency association could simply anoint a candidate, when he is a fully paid-up party member and they like the cut of his jib, are long gone. They can only pick someone off a centrally approved list of clones, bores and lickspittles and few of any interest, character or backbone survive the process. Thats before you even get to women-only shortlists or other diversity tick-box tricks. In 2021, Nicola Sturgeon got rid of Joan McAlpine an SNP list MSP for South Scotland, not one of us on trans issues by the simple expedient of ruling that the top spot on the regional list (and, thus, the only Nationalist with a hope of election, given their near-sweep of physical constituencies) go to someone disabled. In like manner, when our local Western Isles MP Angus MacNeil a couple of years ago lost the Nationalist whip, a new face had to be signed up for the looming Westminster election. The obvious candidate was the Stornoway North councillor Gordon Murray. Smart, educated, delightful, happily married, a tireless community advocate and a Free Church adherent, big on the Lords Day and that. But we never got to vote for him. Even signed-up SNP members were not allowed to vote for him, for Cllr Murray was blocked in vetting. We ended up with a woman no one had ever heard of and Labours Torcuil Crichton duly buried her by a country mile. The late Charles Kennedy was among a group of politicians 'blessed with fresh minds' You look back on the politics of yore and wonder how many would have made it onto the ballot paper in the modern era against the anointed ones lanyarded aides, researchers, step-and-fetch-its and professional politicians ever since uni; those who have never actually had a real job, nor one original idea between their ears, nor psychologically ever left the student union. Which is why, from NHS Fife to the Scottish parliament, we see numpty reaching out unto numpty, signed up to the latest woke obsessions and totally out of touch with reality. You simply wouldnt get a Margo MacDonald in either parliament these days. Or a Michael Forsyth, or a Teddy Taylor people with strong values, bold opinions and an incorruptible ethos of public service. Margo spoke up all her days for the poor, the marginalised and the voiceless. Teddy Taylor a superlative MP for Glasgow Cathcart clamoured for capital punishment as if he had shares in rope. Everyone hated Michael Forsyth not least because, time and again, Stirling kept re-electing him but I saw him holding the floor at an Edinburgh University Pies, Pints and Politics town-hall in 1985, and not one trendy Leftie managed to lay a glove on him. And where did you hear that? he inquired of one be-denimed brat. I read it in The Observer Ah, mugged Forsyth, in sepulchral scorn, you read it in The Observer, and hostile to a man as the gathering was everyone erupted in laughter. Four decades ago a joyous triple-act regularly did the studio rounds: Sir Julian Critchley (Con, Aldershot), Austin Mitchell (Lab, Grimsby) and our own Charles Kennedy. They were all blessed with fresh minds; distanced just a little from their respective parties. They were a hoot and, inevitably, were soon dubbed Critch, Mitch and Titch. As the late Edna OBrien once lamen-ted, the question these days is less, Where have all the fairies gone? but, Where are all the thinkers now? The hollowing-out of our political parties is one of the few debauchings in public life that cannot be blamed on Tony Blair. The likes of Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell repeatedly rebelled in the voting lobby in Corbyns case, hundreds of times but they were left to frolic, in entire irrelevance, to their hearts content. John Prescott, as Deputy Prime Minister, was less a colleague than a sort of pet. The rot really began with the Tories when David Cameron who had effectively franchised out his political brain to George Osborne took command in 2005 and embarked on the Conservative modernisation project. They looked not to Thatcher or Churchill, but to such improbable gods as Clinton and Blair, and did their best to reinvent one of Europes oldest and most ruthlessly successful political parties as blandly cuddlesome. In the Nationalists, you might trace it back even to the late 1970s, when the SNP elite panicked after the disastrous Glasgow Garscadden by-election. (In a seat where Royal Navy shipyard orders really kind of mattered, local activists had mulishly nominated a pacifist.) The trouble with closed party lists is not that you identify and nail down your best and brightest. You are simply setting yourself up to be lied to, and the people who best game that process tend to be generally away on the moors of moral turpitude. As brilliant a mind as the SNP ever possessed, Stephen Maxwell stared when, amidst the 1999 selection winnowing, he was asked to assure his interlocuters he would never, ever vote against some decreed party line. He could readily imagine all sorts of situations when he might have to, he patiently explained. Maxwell did not make the list. Latterly frail, having to tote bottled oxygen wherever he went, Sir Jamie McGrigor was in 2016 heavily encouraged not to stand for Holyrood again. He ended his career as only he could, as a councillor subsequently for Oban South and the Isles and, in 2022, was expelled from the Scottish Tories. By accident. An internal investigator at the Department of Defense has received evidence that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth sent secret documents over Signal, according to sources. In March, the Pentagon was shrouded in controversy after a group message on Signal regarding imminent U.S. strikes in Yemen inadvertently included a journalist from The Atlantic. The thread included major heads of state, like Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and discussed plans to bomb Houthi militants. The debacle, dubbed 'Signalgate,' resulted in several high-profile officials firings. It also led to Mike Waltz stepping down as national security advisor. At the time Hegseth and others fought back against the scandal, arguing that classified information was not shared through improper channels. But sources have revealed to the Washington Post that the information put in the group chat by Hegseth came from an email marked 'SECRET/NOFORN,' indicating the email's material was highly sensitive in nature. 'NOFORN' means that the information was not to be shared with foreigners, not even with close U.S. allies. Now as Pentagon's internal investigator, the inspector general, reviews the matter, sources say there's evidence that the attack plans originated from classified sources. This revelation cuts directly against the Pentagon's claims that classified information was not shared frivolously - a claim defense officials stand by. Messages from a group chat with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and other top officials contained material marked 'SECRET/NOFORN,' sources say. Those messages are the subject of a Pentagon inspector general inquiry The group chat on the Signal messanging app was to discuss U.S. military operations in Yemen. Above is the site of U.S. strikes in Yemen's capital Sanaa, shown on March 24 'This Signal narrative is so old and worn out, it's starting to resemble Joe Biden's mental state,' chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell told the Daily Mail. 'The Department stands behind its previous statements: no classified information was shared via Signal.' 'As we've said repeatedly, nobody was texting war plans and the success of the Department's recent operations - from Operation Rough Rider to Operation Midnight Hammer - are proof that our operational security and discipline are top notch,' Hegseth's spokesman added. The information allegedly shared by the secretary originated in an email thread with CENTCOM commander Gen. Erik Kurilla, who sent the plans over classified channels, sources said. Kurilla's message detailed strike plans for that day with precise details, including what aircraft and weapons were to be deployed. It also indicated when the bombing was expected to start. The existence of the chat was exposed by Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg, who was accidentally added to the sensitive thread. Hegseth has repeatedly insisted that 'no classified information was shared' in the group chat, contrary to the Post's reporting. Since the debacle many Democrats have called for Hegseth to step down. Republican Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., also called for the secretary of defense to resign. Some in the Senate are fed up with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's leadership at the Pentagon and a large coalition of lawmakers are eagerly awaiting his downfall But Hegseth has persevered, in part due to Trump's reluctance to hand the media narrative that his Cabinet is in chaos. Republicans in the Senate have remained skeptical of Hegseth; one even told the Daily Mail that some right-wing senators are 'sharpening their knives' and eagerly awaiting the secretary's next misstep. Now, a new rebellion brewing in the Pentagon over the secretary of defense. An effort is under way among some Pentagon officials to denounce Hegseth as unfit to serve as Defense Secretary, the Daily Mail can reveal. Since May, drafts of a letter have been circulating among high and mid-level military brass and civilian workers to 'Let the American public know this guy has no clue what he's doing,' one of them told the Daily Mail. Three Pentagon sources shared that the letter is full of complaints, ranging from politicized decision-making to department-wide dysfunction, low morale, and a climate of paranoia driven by what they describe as Hegseth's obsession with rooting out dissent. The Pentagon again caught a round of negative press earlier this month when Trump and Hegseth appeared at odds over aide for Ukraine. Reports indicated that Hegseth unilaterally decided to halt some weapons shipments to the country. When asked about the pause, Trump said he didn't know about it, putting him in an awkward position. 'I think it would be really unusual for a Secretary of Defense to put a pause on assets to somebody like Ukraine, who we want to help, without consulting the president,' Senator Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, a noted Hegseth skeptic and Trump critic, told the Daily Mail at the time. She called Hegseth's reported pause 'interesting' and praised Trump for changing that directive. Donald Trump was informed months ago by Pam Bondi that his name appears 'multiple times' in the Jeffrey Epstein files the same day she recommended against releasing all documents, according to a new report. Senior administration officials claimed that Attorney General Bondi told Trump during a May 2025 meeting that his name was found in the Epstein documents more than previously thought, among hundreds of other high-profile individuals. The files contained 'unverified hearsay' about Trump and the individuals who had social connections to Epstein, the officials claim. Bondi recommended in that same meeting, according to the Wall Street Journal, that the administration not release more files because they contained child pornography and personal information for victims. Trump, the sources claim, deferred to his attorney general on whether to make additional files public. Just because the president is named in the files does not implicate him in any wrongdoing or connect him to Epstein's child sex trafficking crimes. Administration officials told the Journal that Bondi's May meeting with Trump was a routine briefing covering a number of topics - and the Epstein files weren't the focus. White House communications director Steven Cheung slammed the Journal's report as 'fake news' in a statement to the Daily Mail. President Donald Trump's past association with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is well known. The two ran in similar New York and Florida circles in the 1980s and 1990s 'The fact is that the President kicked him out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, just like the Obama Russiagate scandal, which President Trump was right about,' he said. Bondi has drawn ire and confusion from the MAGA base for a shady timeline on the documents. It's fueling conspiracies that there's a wider 'cover-up' being hatched by the administration. In February, Bondi said on Fox News that she had the Epstein 'client list' sitting on her desk ready for review. She then put out a 'Phase I' of the Epstein report shortly after, which did not contain any bombshell new information as promised, further angering his base. And according to a joint DOJ-FBI memo leaked months later in July, no such 'client list' was ever found in the agencies' review of Epstein-related documents. During a Cabinet meeting on July 8, Bondi sought to clarify that she was actually referencing the complete paperwork related to the investigation into Epstein's child sex trafficking crimes. She then said that the reason more evidence was not released was because it contained child pornography. 'They turned out to be child porn downloaded by that disgusting Jeffrey Epstein,' the attorney general said. 'Never going to be released, never going to see the light of day.' A week later on July 15, Trump denied that Bondi told him his name was flagged in the files after he emerged from another meeting with her. He replied, 'No, no,' when asked by a reporter whether his name being in the files came up at the briefing. Trump told reporters on the South Lawn that Bondi had 'given us just a very quick briefing' on their contents before accusing former FBI Director James Comey of 'making up' the files. A DOJ official told the Daily Mail that communications failures are to blame for the botched Epstein files review. And the entire fallout was 'avoidable.' The Trump administration, in an effort to be transparent, demanded the release of highly-secretive grand jury testimony from the Epstein case. However, Obama-appointed Judge Robin Rosenberg slapped down the request from Attorney General Pam Bondi to unseal proceedings on Wednesday. The move comes as a blow to Trump's MAGA base as they demand all details of the investigation into the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender be made public. According to an exclusive Daily Mail/JL Partners poll out Wednesday, the Epstein drama, although taking over the news cycle, is not impacting how Americans view the president. Forty-nine percent of voters now approve of Trump's job performance as president, up one point from the tracking survey conducted earlier in July. But the pressure is still mounting on the administration to deliver on its key campaign promise to put out documents related to Epstein. It's already known that Trump's name appeared on Epstein's flight logs, as well as the names of his second wife Marla Maples and his son Eric and daughter Tiffany. Epstein's 'black book' contact list also included entries for Trump's first wife Ivana, their daughter Ivanka and the president's brother Robert. It's been known for years that Trump is among the trove of documents in the so-called Epstein files that includes his 'black book' of contacts and his flight logs for his private plane When speaking to reporters on July 15 (pictured), Trump claimed that Bondi had not discussed in a meeting on the Epstein files that his name appeared in the documents Names who are in the address book include Mick Jagger, Michael Jackson, actor Alec Baldwin, Ethel Kennedy, Andrew Cuomo, Naomi Campbell and Courtney Love. Trump has had recent beef with the Wall Street Journal, threatening to sue the publication and its owner Rupert Murdoch for publishing last week a piece claiming he sent Epstein a 50th birthday card with a hand-drawn outline of a naked women. The paper claims that Trump wrote in the card's note: 'May every day be another wonderful secret.' 'I never wrote a picture in my life. I don't draw pictures of women,' Trump fired back when asked if he transmitted such a card. 'It's not my language. It's not my words.' This was followed up by many of his past doodles coming back up, including mostly outlines of buildings and the New York City skyline. The Justice Department told the Wall Street Journal that Trump was made aware of the findings of the Epstein files as part of the 'routine briefing.' Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche reportedly said that nothing was found in the files that would mandate an additional investigation - or even prosecution. 'As part of our routine briefing, we made the President aware of the findings,' they told the Journal. The Daily Mail reached out to the Justice Department for additional details on the meeting. A pediatrician mother hid in the laundry room from police as they beat down her door to arrest her for the death of her four-year-old daughter. Dr. Neha Gupta, 36, of Edmond, Oklahoma, was hiding in her home on July 1 when Oklahoma City Police Department and the US Marshals came banging on her door to arrest her. Gupta, who had recently been let go from her job and was in the midst of a custody battle, has been accused of killing her four-year-old daughter, Aria Talathi, while vacationing with her in Florida in June. Police have now accused the pediatrician of smothering her daughter to death and then placing her body in the pool in the backyard of the rental home in hopes of passing it off as accidental drowning. Marshals banged on the mother-of-one's door and yelled at her to come outside, but the mother did not, bodycam footage obtained by Daily Mail showed. After busting in the door, police found the mother hiding in the laundry room in what appeared to be her pajamas. Authorities searched her home with guns draw, finding children's toys - a reminder of the innocent life lost. After opening the laundry room door, they found the mother cowering in a corner. Dr. Neha Gupta, 36, of Edmond, Oklahoma, was hiding in her home on July 1 when Oklahoma City Police and the US Marshals came banging on her door to arrest her. Gupta was charged with first-degree murder for the death of her child 'Hands, hands,' an officer yelled. 'Come out!' She came out of the room without incident, silently falling to the ground as officers handcuffed her. She was led out through the garage. Police had earlier observed Gupta near the door before retreating into the laundry room, the incident report obtained by Daily Mail said. Aria was vacationing with her mother when she was found unresponsive in the backyard pool of their El Portal, Florida, rental house on June 27. Aria's death came nearly a month after her mother was suspended from her job at OU Health and the University of Oklahoma in May and given a notice of termination. Gupta was also going through a custody battle with her ex-husband, Dr. Saurabh Talathi, after they divorced last year. Talathi, also of Edmond, told investigators that he wasn't aware his ex-wife had taken the toddler out of state, Local 10 News reported. Gupta told police she was awoken by a strange sound on June 27 and found her daughter unresponsive in the backyard pool around 3:30am. Gupta, who had recently been let go from her job, has been accused of killing her four-year-old daughter Aria Talathi while vacationing with her in Florida Bodycam footage showed the home filled with children's toys Aria was rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 4:28am. However, while doctors were examining the little girl, they found cuts and bruising inside the toddler's mouth, suggesting she may have been smothered to death and had her body placed in the pool, NBC Miami reported. They also didn't find water in the girl's lungs - disputing the mother's story that she drowned. Gupta was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The mother-of-one had told authorities she and the little girl had enjoyed dinner around 9pm before going to sleep in the same bed in the master bedroom of the rental home around 12:30am. When she was awoken by an 'unidentified noise' hours later, she claimed she saw her daughter submerged in the pool. She claimed she had attempted to save her daughter, but was unable to as she didn't know how to swim. Gupta also told police she had attempted to 'assist the deceased victim' for approximately 10 minutes before calling 911. The mom came out of the room without incident after being found, silently falling to the ground as officers handcuffed her Gupta (left) in a suicide vest during a court proceeding The girl's stomach was also found empty, which contradicted Gupta's claim that she had fed the child earlier that evening. Detectives said surveillance video and the autopsy report burn holes in Gupta's account and suggested she had staged the girl's death. 'The subject attempted to conceal the killing of the deceased victim by staging an accidental drowning within the swimming pool of a rental property,' the affidavit said. The doctor was arrested in Oklahoma City on July 1 by US Marshals and the Oklahoma City Police Department. She was booked into the Oklahoma County Detention Center and was held without bond until her extradition. Gupta is still being held without bond at the Miami-Dade Jail in Florida. Miami-Dade Sheriff's Detective Joseph. R. Peguero Rivera told Daily Mail earlier this month that they did not know what the motive was for the brutal crime. Police had earlier observed Gupta near the door before retreating into the laundry room, the incident report obtained by Daily Mail said It is also unclear if the child's remains are in Florida or if they have been transferred back to Oklahoma. Gupta's lawyer, Richard Cooper, previously told Local 10 that police 'rushed to judgement' and 'as a result, a grieving mother who just lost her daughter is in jail.' 'We look forward to a full investigation which will uncover the truth of the matter,' he said. Gupta is expected back in court for her Florida arraignment hearing on August 7. Daily Mail has reached out to Gupta's attorneys for comment. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard did not rule out claims that wealthy financier and convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein was connected to foreign intelligence operations before he died in prison. The director spoke to reporters at the White House press briefing on Wednesday. 'I haven't seen any evidence or information that reflects that,' Gabbard said in response to a question from the Daily Mail, asking if she could rule out any connections that Epstein had to either foreign or domestic intelligence. 'If anything comes before me that changes that in any way, I support the president's statement loud and clear, if any credible evidence comes forward he wants the American people to see it,' she added. Epstein was given an enormously generous plea deal of just 13 months in June 2008, even after he was being investigated for multiple accounts of pedophilia and sex trafficking and facing 40 years in prison. The plea deal shocked federal prosecutors as they had obtained as many as 40 victims of Epstein, many of whom were willing to testify against him. The agreement was made with then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta, who later reportedly said that he was told that Epstein 'belonged to intelligence' and to back away from the case. Acosta was later selected by Trump to serve in his first administration as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard responds to a question from the news media during a press conference at the White House in Washington, DC Labor Secretary Alex Acosta speaks during news conference at the Department of Labor in Washington During a July 2019 press conference, Acosta was asked to confirm if he was made aware that Epstein was an intelligence asset. Acosta did not deny the report but said he would 'hesitate to take as fact' the news in the story. 'A lot of reporting is just going down rabbit holes,' he concluded. Attorney General Pam Bondi said earlier this month she also did not know if Epstein was an intelligence asset. 'To him being an agent, I have no knowledge about that,' she said to reporters. Gabbard appeared at the briefing to detail the Russia collusion hoax, outlining what she described as 'treasonous' behavior by former President Barack Obama and former intelligence officials who she claimed colluded to perpetrate the Russia 'hoax' that tangled up President Trump's first term. 'The stunning revelations that we are releasing today should be of concern to every American,' she said. 'This is not about Democrats or Republicans, this has to do with the integrity of our Democratic republic.' She detailed behind-the-scenes information from declassified documents that revealed the roles that former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency John Brennan, and former FBI director James Comey played in the effort to prove that Trump colluded with Russia to win the 2016 election. 'I'm not asking you to take my word for it, I'm asking you in the media to conduct honest journalism and the American people to see for yourself,' she said, referring to the documents she released on Friday and Wednesday. White House Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard talks to reporters in the Brady Press Briefing Room This undated trial evidence image obtained December 8, 2021, from the US District Court for the Southern District of New York shows British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell and US financier Jeffrey Epstein Referring to the 'Steele dossier,' compiled by former MI6 intelligence agent Christopher Steele on behalf of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign, Gabbard noted that Brennan was the one who insisted on including the salacious and now discredited document into intelligence briefings to claim that Trump was connected to Russia, even as top officials contested the claim. She blamed the media for working with rogue intelligence agents to try and undermine the Trump administration. 'President Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Brennan, James Comey, James Clapper and others including the mouthpieces in the media knowingly lied when this was created ... with high confidence as though it were fact,' she said. Gabbard said she would refer all of the released documents to the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate the criminal nature of their actions. 'I'm not an attorney ... but when you look at the intent, creating a fake, manufactured intelligence document that directly contradicts multiple assessments created by the intelligence community, the expressed intent and what followed afterward can only be described as a year's long coup and treasonous conspiracy against the American people, our republic, and an attempt to undermine President Trump's administration,' she said. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy made a triumphant return to the cable news pantheon Wednesday afternoon, after he froze during an appearance on the same Fox Business show Tuesday. Kennedy brushed off concerns about his health that had been generated by Tuesday's segment in his usual jovial fashion, while Fox host Larry Kudlow helped him debunk the myths that were started by yesterday's incident. 'A lot of lefty media are saying things they shouldn't say. As I understand it, what happened was your IFB, your wire broke down. And you had a lot of noise in your ear. And you had to stop talking because you couldn't get anything through,' Kudlow said, kicking off the exchange. 'I was just yapping away, and all of a sudden my ear piece blew up,' Kennedy said, pointing to his right ear. He described the sound as like 'a 747 taking off' and said his ears were still ringing. Kennedy dismissed speculation about his health, saying some publications have suggested he 'had a brain freeze live on TV, or a stroke, or caught an STD.' 'I'm ok. I'm back here today, I'm full of piss and vinegar and I'd be glad to answer your questions,' the Senator concluded. The moment when Kennedy suddenly stopped speaking mid-sentence during his television appearance has been widely circulated online over the past 24 hours. Senator John Kennedy on Larry Kudlow's Fox Business show, Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025 Kennedy was speaking about the Trump administration's stance on sanctuary cities when the concerning moment occurred. The senator began to trail off while referencing how Jesus loves immigrants. 'Jesus loves them, but everybody else thinks .' Kennedy said, before mumbling a few barely-audible words. 'Everybody else thinks' he repeated before looking off into the distance and going completely silent. Kennedy remained motionless on camera with his lips parted and eyes staring forward until host Larry Kudlow cut in, attributing the moment to a technical issue. The senator's office disputed initial reporting about the incident, saying there was simply an earpiece malfunction that also affected Senator Rand Paul, who was interviewed before Kennedy. "I heard a loud screeching noise with a lot of static. It sounded like a 747 taking off," Kennedy explained in a statement. "I stopped talking until the interference cleared up, and thought we were off the air." Kennedy criticized The Daily Beast's coverage, saying the media outlet failed to contact Kudlow's producer to verify the technical explanation. A tourist from Spain was arrested after she allegedly assaulted a teen girl to get a better view of a Disney World parade. Martha Lucia Zapata-Echeverri, 51, who is originally from Colombia but is currently a citizen of Spain, was watching a parade Sunday when she injured the 17-year-old girl, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. The teen told police that she was standing along the parade route on Main Street U.S.A. across from the Cinderella Castle when she was physically confronted by Zapata-Echeverri. The girl alleged that Zapata-Echeverri placed her hand on her 'trying to make space', leaving a bruise and abrasion on her arm. According to the police report, the teenager took a step back to allow one of her companions to move in front of her. She stated that Zapata-Echeverri then grabbed her arm and pulled her to the side. Zapata-Echeverri disputed the accusation and said that she was walking behind her daughter to get to the front of the crowd. Martha Lucia Zapata-Echeverri, 51, who was born Colombia but is currently a citizen of Spain, was watching a parade at Disney World's Magic Kingdom on Sunday when she injured the 17-year-old girl, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. Zapata-Echeverri, who arrived in the U.S. on a tourist visa, was released on a $2,500 bond A judge told Zapata-Echeverri that she is barred from visiting all Disney properties She added that the teenager pushed into her and told her that 'it was her spot.' Zapata-Echeverri was taken to the Orange County jail and was charged with child abuse. She appeared before a judge and pleaded not guilty and was released on a $2,500 bond. As part of her release from jail, the judge barred her from visiting all Disney properties. Zapata-Echeverri came to the United States on a tourist visa July 2 and was scheduled to return to Spain on Wednesday, her attorney told NBC affiliate, WFLA television. Ghislaine Maxwell is scheduled to be deposed by lawmakers in early August, a top Republican shared as fears percolate that notorious convicted sex trafficker could be harmed in prison. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer announced issuing a subpoena for Maxwell to testify on August 11 at the Tallahassee facility where she is serving her prison sentence. The scheduled high-stakes meeting comes one day after Republican Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee pushed to have Maxwell subpoenaed after accusing the administration of hiding the full Epstein files. And Maxwell may want to talk, according to a source who told the Daily Mail 'she would be more than happy to sit before Congress and tell her story,' though her lawyer has made no commitment. 'If Ms. Maxwell agrees to testify before Congress and not take the 5thand that remains a big ifshe would testify truthfully, as she always has said she would and as she will with Mr. Blanche,' Maxwell's lawyer David Markus told the New York Sun. 'The truth should not be feared or preemptively dismissed.' The rush to get testimony from Epstein's protege comes as some lawmakers have raised concern about her protection. 'I requested that she be placed immediately into protective custody and monitored - by guards as well as working surveillance equipment - around the clock, so that our justice system does not again fail the survivors of this Epstein nightmare,' Republican Rep. Scott Perry posted on X. Donald and Melania Trump with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell Republican Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee asked the Oversight Committee to vote on subpoenaing Ghislaine Maxwell on Tuesday. The panel quickly approved his request Maxwell, shown above with sex offender and accused child trafficker Jefferey Epstein, was a longtime partner of the disgraced financier. She is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking Trump's closest allies and rank-and-file members - including House Oversight Chairman James Comer, Anna Paulina Luna, Nancy Mace and Marjorie Taylor Greene - backed the subpoena for Maxwell. The move makes it possible that Maxwell's deposition could be recorded and even televised, though Comer has not shared whether it will be. It comes as the White House has been cagey about releasing the full Epstein files, setting up a stand-off between Republicans and Trump. The administration was rocked with more bad news Wednesday as the Wall Street Journal reported Trump was informed he appears in the Epstein files by his Attorney General Pam Bondi. 'As for the Congressional subpoena, Ms. Maxwell is taking this one step at a time,' her lawyer said. 'She looks forward to her meeting with the Department of Justice, and that discussion will help inform how she proceeds.' Burchett's move puts both Trump and GOP leadership in a sticky situation, powerless to control what the imprisoned Epstein accomplice will say. He originally asked Oversight Chairman James Comer to allow Maxwell to testify in a public, televised hearing. This undated trial evidence image obtained December 8, 2021, from the US District Court for the Southern District of New York shows British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell and financier Jeffrey Epstein The committee approved Burchett's motion for Maxwell's deposition, meaning the 63-year-old who is serving a 20-year-sentence for sex trafficking may have a chance to air her story to members of Congress craving more information on the sordid saga. If it is similar to recent depositions done by the committee, there is a chance her testimony could be recorded, even televised. Recent depositions of former aides to Joe Biden have been recorded as the Oversight Committee probes the Democrat's mental acuity and whether his diminishing abilities were covered up by staff. 'We just got to get to the bottom of this thing, folks,' the Tennesseean said in a video he posted on X after the successful vote. 'It's four years and, you know, we don't need to tolerate this stuff anymore.' 'I get the blow back about folks up here are going to be mad at me, but ultimately, with all sincerity, excuse me, I'm answering my Creator on this issue,' he said. The push for Maxwell's testimony comes amid extreme pressure on Capitol Hill to release files related to the financier's crimes and death. The House canceled votes on Thursday due to complications with Epstein. The Rules Committee, which determines what bills make it to the House floor for votes, has been paralyzed since Democrats on the panel have continuously worked to force Republicans to vote against the Epstein files being released. Rank-and-file members like Reps. Luna and Greene backed the move to subpoena Maxwell The political jockeying has frustrated GOP members on the panel, some of whom have sided with Democrats on rules committee votes to avoid pushing back against the release of the high-profile documents. Already Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., has introduced a bill that would force the Department of Justice to release most of its files on Epstein, but Republican leadership have so far blocked those efforts, knowing that such a vote would enrage Trump and put GOP members in a difficult position. But come this fall, Speaker Mike Johnson and his team will be close to powerless to stopping Massie's measure. If the Kentucky lawmaker's bill garners at least 218 co-signers - and almost all Democrats and some Republicans have already said they'd vote for it - then it will receive a vote on the House floor. Tennessee Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has introduced a bill to force the DOJ to published all its files on Jefferey Epstein A vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA) is expected once Congress returns from summer recess in September. The only material in the files that would be withheld are portions relating to abuse or death, personal identifiable information of victims and content that would jeopardize active federal investigations or compromise national security. Passage of the legislation would force the DOJ to post the Epstein documents online within 30 days. According to the legislative text, any redactions made in the documents would need to be explained in a memo. Bryan Kohberger's mother was visibly emotional throughout his sentencing hearing despite the killer's stone-cold demeanor. MaryAnn Kohberger was in the courtroom alongside Kohberger's lookalike sister Amanda, as Judge Steven Hippler handed down four life sentences for the 'grotesque murders' of Maddie Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. At several points during the victim impact statement portion of the hearing, MaryAnn 'shuddered' with emotion. The killer's mom is understood to have quietly wept throughout court proceedings, and briefly sobbed when Mogen's grandmother spoke of her grief for the other victims' families, as well as the Kohbergers. She and her daughter sat quietly near the defense table, the only two people in the gallery there to support Kohberger. His father did not attend, but he was present when Kohberger pleaded guilty earlier this month. MaryAnn and Amanda were pictured slipping out a back door of the courtroom after Kohberger was told he would spend his life in prison with no possibility of parole. The shattered mom wore dark glasses to cover her face. Her hair was swept up in an updo, and she wore a black floral dress with dangly earrings. Kohberger's sister Amanda, their mother MaryAnn and his defense attorney Anne Taylor were escorted out of the Ada County Courthouse by police after the intense hearing The Kohberger family issued a statement just days after his arrest, saying they would be standing by him Amanda, meanwhile, looked straight down the lens of the camera as she exited first from the courthouse. She and MaryAnn had traveled from their home in Pennsylvania to witness the conclusion of one of the most infamous crimes of the 21st century. They were escorted from the courtroom by police after and did not make any statement. The family issued a statement just days after Kohberger's arrest, saying they would be standing by him. The statement said they 'care deeply for the four families who have lost their precious children' and that they were cooperating fully with the investigation. They added that 'as a family we will love and support our son and brother.' Kohberger has never explained his motive for carrying out the murders. He sat in court Wednesday as he heard heart-wrenching statements from families of the four students he stabbed to death. He was asked if he'd like to address the court, but said: 'I respectfully decline.' Cara Northington, the mother of victim Xana Kernodle, wipes her eye during the sentencing hearing Pictured left to right: Housemates Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen (on Kaylee's shoulders) Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke in 2022 Judge Hippler said the heartbroken families may never know why Kohberger killed their loved ones. 'The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave,' he said. 'In my view, the time has now come to end Mr Kohberger's 15 minutes of fame. 'It's time that he been consigned to the ignominy and isolation of perpetual incarceration.' Kohberger was studying for a doctorate degree in criminology at Washington State University in 2022 when he drove to the small town of Moscow, Idaho and broke into the victims' shared house. He went from room to room stabbing four of the six occupants to death. Kohberger was arrested at his parents' house in Pennsylvania thousands of miles away on December 30 that year, after DNA found on a knife sheath was traced to him. He continued to deny the charges, despite mounting evidence, and appeared set to go to trial until this month when a shock plea deal was announced - sparing him the death penalty. Amanda Kohberger delivered a glare that hauntingly resembled the expression her killer brother sported in court Kohberger has never explained his motive for carrying out the murders. He sat in court Wednesday as he heard heart-wrenching statements from families of the four students he stabbed to death After the victim impact statements concluded on Wednesday, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson offered more details about how that plea bargain came about. On June 18, Kohberger's final motions were argued before the court - to delay the trial and to be able to accuse others of being alternate suspects. 'The following week, we were approached by the defense on a possible plea,' the prosecutor said. This was the first mention of a possible plea as the defense 'maintained from the beginning that he was innocent.' Thompson, the prosecutor, said his office met with the victims' families about the potential of a plea deal. 'We understand, recognise and acknowledge that there was a difference of opinion among representatives of the different families,' he said. His office decided to take the plea deal, but accepts that not everyone supported his decision. 'I accept that. It's my responsibility,' he said. Australia has lifted its ban on importing US beef following a biosecurity review - eliminating a key reason cited by the Trump administration for imposing tariffs on Aussie products. Last month, the Prime Minister resisted pressure from the Trump administration to import beef from the US, insisting that Australia's strict biosecurity laws would not be compromised - a position strongly supported by Nationals MPs and cattle farmers. No US beef has been imported into Australia since 2019, and although the Albanese government insisted that was for biosecurity reasons, the Trump administration regarded it as trade protectionism and imposed a reciprocal tariff on Australia's exports to the US, including beef. On Tuesday night, Australia's biosecurity measures were relaxed which will allow US processed beef to enter the market, giving the Albanese government a strong case to lobby the US to remove the tariffs on Aussie products. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins said a review late last year approved new tracking rules the US had introduced showing the source of all beef, including that it imports from Canada and Mexico. That tracking enables the source of all US beef to be identified so if there is an outbreak of diseases like foot-and-mouth or Mad Cow in the Americas, any product from affected areas can be isolated and stopped from entering the Australian market. 'The Albanese Labor Government will never compromise on biosecurity,' Collins said. 'The US Beef Imports Review has undergone a rigorous science and risk-based assessment over the past decade. Australia has lifted its ban on US beef following a major biosecurity review - eliminating a key reason previously cited by the Trump administration for imposing tariffs Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, his fiancee Jodie Haydon and son Nathan Albanese 'The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is satisfied the strengthened control measures put in place by the US effectively manage biosecurity risks. 'Australia stands for open and fair trade - our cattle industry has significantly benefited from this.' Canberra is set to leverage the relaxed US beef import rules to push for tariff relief not just on beef but also the 50 per cent duty on steel and aluminium, a proposed 200 per cent pharmaceutical tariff, and the 10 per cent charge on other exports. 'Australia bans - and they're wonderful people, and wonderful everything - but they ban American beef,' Trump said in April as he announced tariffs. 'Yet we imported $3 billion of Australian beef from them just last year alone. They won't take any of our beef. 'They don't want it because they don't want it to affect their farmers and, you know, I don't blame them, but we're doing the same thing right now.' Shortly after, Albanese said the issue was not up for negotiation. 'No, we will not change or compromise any of the issues regarding biosecurity, full stop, exclamation mark, it's simply not worth it. So it's that simple,' Albanese said at the time. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese still has not had an opportunity to meet with Donald Trump 'If things can be sorted out in a way that protects our biosecurity, of course, we don't just say no, we don't want imports in here for the sake of it. But our first priority is biosecurity and there'll be no compromise on that.' The apparent backflip on that position came after the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on Australia with more tariffs that went beyond just beef. The decision comes as the government confirmed that, under the AUKUS agreement, Australia paid the US another $800million at the end of the June quarter. The money will help the US boost its submarine production so it can sell Australia two second-hand nuclear-powered submarines. This contribution is part of Australias commitment to pay over $3billion to the US to under the AUKUS pact. The money was handed over without an announcement. 'The payments are occurring in line with Australia's commitment to contribute $US2 billion by the end of 2025, which underscores our commitment to the successful delivery of AUKUS Pillar I outcomes,' a Defence spokesman said in a statement. Albanese still has not met face to face with President Trump. Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Minnesota (SSN-783) is seen off the coast of Western Australia Australia's ambassador to the United States previously called Trump a village idiot The pair were supposed to meet at the G7 summit in Canada last month, but the US President left early to oversee a US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. A meeting between the pair has been set for the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue in September in India. If Trump does not attend, the next opportunity will be when Albanese visits the US for the United Nations General Assembly in New York, with the PM also looking to visit Washington DC. Meanwhile, Australia's ambassador to the United States Kevin Rudd had a private meeting in January. Little is known about what was said at the meeting. Concerns have been raised about whether Mr Rudd is the right person to engage with Trump, given his past remarks about the president. In 2021, Mr Rudd referred to Trump as a 'village idiot,' a 'traitor to the West,' and 'the most destructive president in history.' The UK could be sued over its contribution to climate change after a court ruling that countries are responsible for their emissions. The International Court of Justice said nations are obliged to comply with climate treaties and failure to do so was a breach of international law. While the ruling is non-binding, it is likely to influence legislation globally and may open the floodgates to a series of court cases against countries such as the UK. Despite being advisory, there are fears it could be enshrined in law by Labour, who, under the guidance of Attorney General Lord Hermer, have an 'ideological obsession' with international law, the Tories warned on Wednesday night. Campaigners hailed the ruling as a victory for small nations affected by climate change over big polluters such as the US and China. Judge Yuji Iwasawa, the court president, said: 'Failure of a state to take appropriate action to protect the climate... may constitute an internationally wrongful act.' Environmental lawyers said the judgment would lead to a rise in court cases over climate change. Danilo Garrido, legal counsel for Greenpeace, said: 'This is the start of a new era of climate accountability at a global level.' The UK could be sued over its contribution to climate change after a court ruling that countries (such as Vanuatu, pictured in 2015 after Cycline Pam) are responsible for their emissions Climate activists and campaigners demonstrate outside the International Court of Justice Campaigners hailed the ruling as a victory for small nations affected by climate change over big polluters such as the US and China Sebastien Duyck, at the Centre for International Environmental Law, laid out the possibility of nations being sued. 'If states have legal duties to prevent climate harm, then victims of that harm have a right to redress,' he said. And Joana Setzer, climate litigation expert at the London School of Economics, told Sky News that the ruling 'adds decisive weight to calls for fair and effective climate reparations'. It is the largest case heard by the ICJ in the Hague, and involved 96 countries, 10,000 pages of documents, 15 judges and two weeks of hearings in December. In its ruling, the United Nations' highest court said countries that breach their climate obligations set out in treaties could be sued by states which can prove they have suffered damage as a result. Mr Iwasawa said. 'States must cooperate to achieve concrete emission reduction targets. The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights.' The case, brought by law students from Pacific islands affected by climate change, addressed two questions what obligations were on countries under international law to protect the climate, and what legal consequences should those that have broken them face. Wealthier countries, including the UK, argued existing treaties such as the 2015 Paris Agreement should be used to decide their responsibilities. But developing nations and island states such as Vanuatu in the Pacific argued there should be stronger legally-binding measures in place and called for reparations. The court ruled developing nations have a right to seek damages for the impacts of climate change, such as destroyed buildings and infrastructure, or could claim compensation. However, the court said it was not concerned with setting out when these responsibilities would date from, leaving questions about countries being sued over historical emissions going back to the Industrial Revolution. The Conservatives have warned that Labour (under Attorney General Lord Hermer, pictured) have an 'ideological obsession' with international law Government sources stressed the UK would be under no obligation to pay reparations, a stance likely to be tested by lawyers. A Foreign Office spokesman said: 'It will take time to look at this detailed, non-binding, advisory opinion before commenting in detail. We will continue to collaborate closely to create the conditions for greater ambition and action, including with Brazil as it prepares to host COP30.' Despite being non-binding, previous ICJ decisions have been implemented by governments including the UK, such as agreeing to hand back the Chagos Islands to Mauritius last year. Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel described the court's climate ruling as 'mad', adding: 'The ICJ has lost its core purpose and is now joining political campaigns and bandwagons based upon ideological obsessions... and destroying the sovereign rights of national governments. 'We challenge Labour to put Britain's interest first and make clear they do not intend to act on this ridiculous advisory ruling.' Israel stood accused tonight of inflicting 'mass starvation' on Gaza amid reports that at least ten people have died of malnutrition in 24 hours. It brought the toll of deaths from hunger in recent weeks to 111, including 80 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Harrowing scenes among crowds at aid points have shown desperate women and children pleading for food while photos inside hospitals have revealed starving babies and children. The United Nations has estimated nearly 100,000 women and children in Gaza are approaching malnutrition. More than 100 international aid organisations and human rights groups issued a joint letter blaming Israel for the deteriorating situation. Agencies such as Save the Children, Medecins Sans Frontieres and the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) led the calls for a ceasefire, for land crossings to be reopened and for food, water and medical supplies to be restored. They wrote: 'Palestinians are trapped in a cycle of hope and heartbreak, waiting for assistance and ceasefires, only to wake up to worsening conditions. 'As mass starvation spreads across Gaza, our colleagues and those we serve are wasting away. The United Nations has estimated nearly 100,000 women and children in Gaza are approaching malnutrition Palestinians carrying pans, gather to receive hot meals, distributed by a charity organization in Gaza City, where residents are struggling to access food due to the ongoing Israeli blockade and attacks in Gaza City, Gaza on July 23, 2025 Harrowing scenes among crowds at aid points have shown desperate women and children pleading for food 'As the Israeli government's siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families.' However, Israel denied the claims, insisting that almost 1,000 trucks of aid await distribution by aid agencies to Gazan civilians. Its foreign ministry accused the groups of 'echoing Hamas propaganda' and said it has allowed around 4,500 aid trucks to enter Gaza since lifting a complete blockade in May. It insisted that more than 700 lorries are waiting to be picked up and distributed by the UN. That's an average of around 70 a day, the lowest rate of the war and far below the 500 to 600 trucks a day the UN says are needed and which entered during a six-week ceasefire earlier this year. The agencies said only 28 trucks a day are getting through because Israel is blocking these organisations from 'accessing and delivering' supplies. They described Israeli aid drops as 'symbolic' and a 'smokescreen for inaction' while such measures 'cannot replace legal and moral obligations to protect civilians'. At least 100 Palestinians were said yesterday to have died across the enclave in the previous 24 hours. The move by the agencies appeared to have paid off on Wednesday night as Donald Trump intervened to add pressure on Israel. A child eats as Palestinians gather to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, amid Israel-Hamas conflict, near the ruins of houses destroyed during the Israeli offensive, in Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip August 26, 2024 Palestinian woman Warda Mattar feeds her newborn dates, instead of milk, amidst food scarcity and lack of milk, at a school where they shelter in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip February 25, 2024 More than 100 international aid organisations and human rights groups issued a joint letter blaming Israel for the deteriorating situation UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres has described the situation in Gaza as 'a horror show' The White House claimed the US President was distressed by the latest 'mass casualty event' on Sunday when 79 civilians were killed after Israeli troops opened fire at an aid station. Mr Trump has dispatched US peace envoy Steve Witkoff to lead talks in Rome tomorrow, with Israeli minister of strategic affairs Ron Dermer and Qatari envoys representing Hamas. The appeal by the agencies also came as the UN claimed more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed as they queued for aid in Gaza in the previous two months. UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres has described the situation in Gaza as 'a horror show' and added: 'We are seeing the last gasp of a humanitarian system built on humanitarian principles.' The Vatican has expressed growing frustration at the killings in Gaza 'of children queueing for a handful of rice'. Meanwhile, the American Jewish Committee lobby group condemned a post by US Republican Representative Randy Fine suggesting starvation was a legitimate tactic. He wrote: 'Release the hostages. Until then, starve away.' The militant Corbynista leader of the British Medical Association once compared Brexit to rape and an alleged murderer to Jesus, the Mail can reveal. Dr Tom Dolphin, 46, boss of the union at the centre of the junior doctors' walkouts, has been a political campaigner for more than a decade. At the height of the UK-EU negotiations in 2019, he criticised comments by Tory grandee Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who had said Theresa May's request for a Brexit delay was 'as close to a national humiliation as I've seen'. Dr Dolphin, who was a Labour Party activist and member under Jeremy Corbyn, commented on the remarks on social media, saying: 'This reminds me of the surveys on 'What do you fear most?', where men say 'Humiliation' and women say 'Rape/assault'. 'It is high privilege to be able to conflate embarrassment with actual harm, and those who are not at personal risk from Brexit don't get how scared some are.' It has also emerged that he compared Luigi Mangione, who was arrested in December over the shooting of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson in New York, to Jesus. Appearing to praise the alleged murderer, Dr Dolphin shared a photograph of Mangione in an orange jumpsuit surrounded by police and likened it to Greek painter El Greco's 1579 The Disrobing Of Christ just before his crucifixion. Dr Dolphin wrote: 'This dramatic scene was the authorities trying to show what happens when one man stands up against the rich and powerful. 'I don't think this was how the NYPD [New York City Police Department] were anticipating it would look. Perhaps El Greco's piece should be retitled 'Christ's Perp Walk To The Praetorium'.' Dr Tom Dolphin, boss of the union at the centre of the junior doctors' walkouts, was a Labour Party activist and member under Jeremy Corbyn Dr Dolphin shared a photograph of Mangione in an orange jumpsuit surrounded by police He compared Magione's image to Greek painter El Greco's 1579 The Disrobing Of Christ just before his crucifixion He added: 'To be clear, Mangione is alleged to have used violence to further his cause, and Jesus (as recorded in The Bible) did quite the opposite. I was just struck by the visual imagery.' The tweets come despite Dr Dolphin telling junior doctors in 2023 that 'the Right-wing press are at it again' and urged members to 'lock down your social media because these [redacted] are sniffing round again'. Dr Dolphin was elected as BMA council chairman last month, having been a member of it since 2012. He works as an anaesthetic consultant in London. Conservative health spokesman Stuart Andrew said: 'These remarks are deeply troubling and inappropriate. To liken a man charged with murder to Jesus, and to compare Brexit to rape, is offensive and deeply disturbing.' Resident, formerly junior, doctors in England will go on strike this week with the BMA saying the Government failed to make an offer to 'meet the scale' of challenges felt by medics. The union is demanding a 29.2 per cent pay rise. In September, BMA members voted to accept a government pay deal worth 22.3per cent on average over two years. A BMA spokesman said: 'Dr Dolphin was not trivialising the serious impact of sexual violence but instead drawing an analogy to emphasise how individuals who are not personally affected by a major event such as Brexit may struggle to understand the fear or harm it can cause others. 'His comments were intended to highlight the gap in perception between those who experience real consequences and those who do not.' When the Duchess of York commissioned Lindka Cierach to design her wedding dress on July 23 1986, the couturier catapulted her into the limelight, earning her nothing but praise for the lavish gown. She founded her own company, Lindka Cierach Couture, in 1979 and her first commission was a wedding dress for a Bahranian princess, which drew attention from the Middle East. But it was not until she designed Fergies 35,000 ivory duchess satin gown, with its 17ft-long train, that her place was cemented in fashion history. The dress, with a waistline which dropped to a point and a scooped neckline, proved a foil for her veil and headdress. Manolo Blahnik created her shoes, which were beaded with bees and ribbons in pearls and diamante. Initially Fergie wanted teddy bears and helicopters embroidered on the dress, but Cierach pointed her in a different direction. But, in the four decades since that historic day, Fergie, 65, has been in and out of the headlines for her romantic entanglements, financial disasters, and struggles with cancer and mental health. While she and Prince Andrew were divorced ten years later, the parents of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, still live together in the 30 million mansion Royal Lodge in the heart of Windsor Great Park. Now, in an extraordinary parallel, Cierach, 73, has had her own share of adverse publicity as she has negotiated life in the aftermath of the Royal wedding. Around 100,000 people turned out to watch the happy couple kiss and wave from the balcony I realised what was appropriate. She has strong looks and a wonderful body. And we had great fun, although she was under tremendous pressure Five full-time beaders then embroidered the brides own coat of arms on the garment with thistles and bees interwoven with the couples heraldic initials and naval anchors with waves and hearts But it was not until she designed Fergies 35,000 ivory duchess satin gown, with its 17ft-long train with an S and an A in silver beads, that her place was cemented in fashion history The London College of Fashion graduate, who once dated TV supremo Michael Grade, eventually gave up on the fashion world to become a sound healer after a public fallout with the Princess of Wales mother Carole Middleton. She fell out with Carole Middleton over her outfit for William and Kates wedding. She selected the couturier to design her outfit, spending four months attending many secret fittings, before ditching her at the 11th hour. The designer, who numbers Queen Rania of Jordan and Hollywood star Catherine Zeta-Jones amongst her clients, has always refused to discuss the dispute. But reportedly Carole asked the couturier to deliver the unfinished outfit to her home, so she could show it to her friends, and Cierach would only allow the garment to leave her studio if she accompanied it. According to a source, Cierach was taken aback when Middleton claimed the designer was unaccommodating and said she no longer wished to wear the outfit. She was reported to have been left surprised by the unconventional request and completely bemused after all the hard work she had put into creating the outfit. It is now 12 years since Cierach teamed up with Newcastle University graduate Cherub Sanson, to found the Sister Sound Circle, a sacred space, celebrating and supporting women in our community. I used to get very drained by being with difficult people, she said pointedly in an online comment explaining about her new path. Lindka fell out with Carole Middleton over her outfit for William and Kates wedding. She selected the couturier to design her outfit, spending four months attending many secret fittings, before ditching her at the 11th hour Carole Middleton ended up wearing Princess Diana's favourite designer, Catherine Walker to her daughter's wedding in April 2011 It is now 12 years since Cierach teamed up with Newcastle University graduate Cherub Sanson, to found the Sister Sound Circle, a sacred space, celebrating and supporting women I started Sister Sound Circle in 2013, with my spirit mama, Lindka Cierach, wrote Sanson, through my own desire to sing in a safe environment with a sisterhood, whos (sic) ethos was to complete each other, not compete with each other. Its been an epic journey, from starting out - not sure how to hold a circle, or what it should consist of - we kept holding them under the light of every full moon, and our Sister Sound Circle grew and grew. Ten years on, we have opened our circle to women both living in and travelling through London from all over the world.Together we sing, drum. share, laugh, cry, meditate and elevate our consciousness as one tribe. Born in Lesotho, Cierach spent her early years in Africa, with her siblings Kasia, who ran a soft furnishing studio, and brother John, who ran a wet fish and food business. Her father Edek, who was Polish and a devout Catholic, spent much of World War II in a Siberian concentration camp, building the trans-Siberian railway, and went onto map Africa for the British Government. Her mother Diana taught her how to sew. My mother helped to develop my love of sewing, she once said, as I used to watch her doing embroidery and smocking. She has a fine intellectual mind, and her dream was to have a career - but her father poo-poohed all her ambitions and sent her to Africa to be tidied up. That is where she met my father. Cierach attended a convent school in London and worked at Vogue magazine before studying at the London College of Fashion. On graduation, she was apprenticed to Japanese designer Yuki. Afterwards Fergie wrote in her memoir: Lindka was a genius; I knew she could make the most flattering gown ever, and she had. It was amazingly boned, like a corset Cierach attended a convent school in London and worked at Vogue magazine before studying at the London College of Fashion Lindka dated Channel 4 boss Michael Grade for three years, but he failed to propose She soon gained a reputation for designing exquisite wedding gowns for society brides such as Lady Rose Cecil, daughter of the Marquess of Salisbury, Jocelyn Stevens's daughter Pandora, and the heiress Charlotte Monckton. I was overwhelmed and delighted to get a call from Sarah Ferguson the day after her engagement, she said afterwards. I had never made anything for her before, although I had met her at a couple of social occasions. She wanted me to do some wedding dress sketches, and I sketched like crazy. I even dreamed I had a vision from the vaults of Westminster Abbey. On the morning, she was due to ring me back, there was total panic. I locked myself out of the house and stood on the doorstep hearing the telephone ring, but we managed to get together the following day. Once I started to work with her, I realised what was appropriate. She has strong looks and a wonderful body. And we had great fun, although she was under tremendous pressure. We joked about putting bumble bees and helicopters into the design. Seriously, I felt the dress had to be something that would live through history. Five full-time beaders then embroidered the brides own coat of arms on the garment with thistles and bees interwoven with the couples heraldic initials and naval anchors with waves and hearts. Afterwards Fergie wrote in her memoir: Lindka was a genius; I knew she could make the most flattering gown ever, and she had. It was amazingly boned, like a corset. Initially Fergie wanted teddy bears and helicopters embroidered on the dress, but Cierach pointed her in a different direction After a traditional wedding breakfast for 120 guests at Buckingham Palace, the married couple and some 300 guests moved to a party at Claridge's hotel We'd chosen duchess satin because it is the creamiest material in the world. It never creases. It is smooth as glass and hangs beautifully, without a single bulge; it made my reduced figure look even better. The following year Cierach was named Designer of the Year. Jilly Cooper based her fictional designer in the 2002 bestseller Pandora on her and she took part in the 2006 ITV series Ladette to Lady, tutoring foulmouthed young girls to speak nicely. But, no matter how many diverse projects she has been involved with, she will always be remembered for Fergies flattering wedding gown A rare plot of land next to Lake Windermere has come on the market for the first time in 300 years with a 1.2m guide price. The 32 acres of mixed ancient and semi-natural woodland fronts on to the the lake and estate agents have described the sale as a 'once in a lifetime opportunity'. The land, which provides direct access to the eastern shore of the lake, is being offered for sale by informal tender, final offers to be sent to estate agents by Thursday, September 18. The land is described as perfect for nature conservation, quiet enjoyment, and 'long-term stewardship'. Mark Barrow, director of H&H Land & Estates, said: 'It is impossible to overstate just how remarkable and a one off this opportunity is. 'Windermere for me is without a doubt the Lake District's most iconic lake and along with what can only be described as an unspoilt woodland paradise, this parcel gives the new owners direct access to their own private stretch of waterfront on one of the world's most admired and famous lakes. 'The potential this property offers is genuinely unique and it will appeal to the widest range of buyers, from local property owners and investors to lifestyle purchasers, conservationists, and those looking to secure their own secluded foothold in the heart of the Lake District National Park.' The woodland, which is free from environmental stewardship or woodland schemes, is crossed by a network of 'well-maintained' hardcore tracks and benefits from natural water supplies. Aerial views of Lake Windermere from above a plot of land which has gone on sale with a guide price of 1.2m guide price Estate agents have described the sale as a 'once in a lifetime opportunity' The woodland, which is free from environmental stewardship or woodland schemes, is crossed by a network of 'well-maintained' hardcore tracks The land is described as perfect for nature conservation, quiet enjoyment, and 'long-term stewardship' The land will be sold as a whole, with a guide price of 1 million to 1.2 million, or in three lots, with guide prices ranging from 150,000 to 550,000. The first lot, with a guide price of 300,000 to 360,000, is made up of 7.92 acres of woodland with 184 metres of lake frontage and includes a site with lapsed planning permission for a proposed forestry building. The second lot, with a guide prices of 530,000 to 550,000, is made up of 12.12 acres of woodland with 350 metres of lake frontage. The third lot, which has a guide price of 150,000 to 210,000, is made up of 12.48 acres of woodland with around 80 metres of lake frontage. A once-forgotten corner of Nashville, TN, is in the middle of an unlikely transformation and locals cant get enough of it. What was until recently a neglected industrial stretch on the edge of downtown has morphed into, a trendy enclave now considered one of Music Citys most desirable neighborhoods. It had last been of significance as a Civil Warera railyard. Now, The Gulch as it is known has become a luxury hub filled with sleek high-rises, rooftop bars, boutique hotels, and eco-conscious design. 'For a long time The Gulch was like a downtown for locals,' Nashville realtor Tim Bartlett tells DailyMail.com. 'It wasn't anything like now until about 2012 and that first little boom there where they built a handful of the condos. 'And then it started to fill out more and more and then it was just this really cool vibrant area with lots of local people that live there now that didn't originally want to live downtown because downtown could be kind of a nightmare. 'Now there's a Ritz-Carlton coming to The Gulch.' Reba McEntire, Reese Witherspoon and Kasey Musgraves attend the opening of Witherspoon's Draper James store, located in Nashville Kristin Cavallari's Uncommon James boutique is located in The Gulch's business district The Gulch is a former Civil War-era railyard turned luxury hub filled with high-rises and shops It took two decades for the 110-acre urban oasis, tucked just southwest of Nashville's bustling Broadway strip, to turn from derelict to a modern oasis even earning the coveted title of the South's first LEED-certified neighborhood and setting the standard for sustainable city living. LEED is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development. The area's comeback story is legendary. Once a near-abandoned stretch of rusting train tracks, the Gulch sat dormant for nearly half a century after WWII, ard earned its name due to the gulch that runs through it. Then along came MarketStreet Enterprises, the developer behind its fabulous rebirth. Led by Steve Turner, Jay Turner and Joe Barker, they had a vision for the area and began reviving it in the early 2000s. Today, it's a buzzing live-work-play neighborhood, minutes from cultural institutions like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It also has a completely different vibe from the neon-lit chaos of honky-tonk Broadway and it's endless tourists. A median condo price in The Gulch is around $400,000, Bartlett said. 'Part of the reason they're so affordable is because there's so many single-family homes in Nashville and a lot a lot of people are likely to go townhome or single-family home,' he said. The Gulch had last been of significance as a Civil Warera railyard and is now a luxury area Art installations can be found in and around The Gulch, an up and coming part of Nashville The Gulch is in Nashville while remaining a quiet corner away from the hustle and bustle Investors are also looking to get into The Gulch. Luxury condo living is what Gulchers want and developers are listening. The iconic 22-story 'Icon in the Gulch,' which broke ground in 2006, led the condo boom. It's since been joined by slick developments like Terrazzo, Twelve Twelve, The James, and the newest luxury building, Pullman Gulch Union. The condos are holding their value well, with average list prices hovering at $945,000. Condos that were purchased in 2019 for around $500,000 are now easily worth a cool $850,000. At Twelve Twelve, a one-bed is currently listed for $539,000, complete with saltwater pool, dog park, and chic lounge areas. A lavish three-bedroom condo at Pullman is asking $2.665 million. The area is only continuing to grow. The Paramount, slated for 2027, is expected to outprice the ultra-modern digs already built. Colorful murals line areas of The Gulch section of Nashville, which is alive with art The Gulch has just 1,850 residents and a median age of 30 who like the luxury buildings There are boutique hotels, instagrammable murals, shops, live music venues, breweries, and restaurants with locally sourced menus offering biscuits and Nashville Hot Chicken. The Gulch has just 1,850 residents and a median age of 30. Locals describe is as youthful, educated, and undeniably upscale. 'So many people are starting to migrate that direction and now you've got some really high end hotels that a lot of musicians stay at,' Bartlett says. 'From a residential point of view you'll get a nice 800 square-foot one bedroom for like $400,000,' The Gulch is also good for every day living. It's walkable, eco-forward, and dripping in amenities. With over 80 eateries, bars and boutiques, plus resort-style pools, co-working spaces, and 24-hour security, the neighborhood leaves little reason to leave. Yet, you're still in the city, with skyline views from rooftop lounges, boutique fitness studios, high-end spas, and designer hotel chains like W Hotels and Thompson Hotels nearby. 'You can walk downtown easily if you wanted to,' Bartlett says. 'You can get to Union Station and museums but within The Gulch is also really nice restaurants and great nightlife. There's three different rooftop bars with views there.' Nashville has seen an influx of new residents from major coastal cities move to The Gulch Tim Bartlett, local Nashville realtor Green space isn't forgotten either. Noble Park, a 10,000-square-foot public retreat, boasts a stage, water features and cafe seating. It's family friendly too. Locals are zoned for Hume-Fogg High School, ranked number 1 in Tennessee and 166th in the country according to US school rankings. Getting around is easy too. There are over 2,000 parking spaces, bike-sharing via B-cycle, dedicated bike lanes, and a free Green Line bus, you can leave your car behind. As Nashville powers through a building boom with mega-projects like Nashville Yards and the East Bank waterfront, the Gulch is the perfect place to escape. Meanwhile, all of Nashville has seen a boom in population. Americans have recently been abandoning Los Angeles, Chicago and New York City for the city, know for its affordability and music scene. The city's good enough for Taylor Swift, who kicked off her career in town. Nashville is also drawing people for its open job market, and no state income tax. A new proposed law could make it easier to take on a loan to build a mobile home. Two congressmen have joined forces to present a bill that would create a new government-backed loan for Americans who want to build a tiny home on their property. Mobile homes have become increasingly popular as the rising cost of housing has shut many out of the dream of home ownership. Now existing homeowners want to build tiny homes on their properties - known as accessory dwelling units, or ADUs - to house their adult children, elderly parents or to let out to guests as a way of generating income. Even home builders are including ADUs as a selling point on properties. Sam Liccardo, a Democrat from California and Andrew Garbarino, a New York Republican, are co-leading the ADU bill that would allow for the unique second mortgages. 'This is a really pressing issue for Americans,' Liccardo said of the housing crisis. 'But it has not become nearly pressing enough for Congress,' he told The Wall Street Journal. The properties are used to house adult children, elderly parents or to let out ADUs are studio-style housing units which are normally between 600 and 1,200 square feet. The bill aims to ease the risk for private lenders to offer second mortgages for ADU construction by providing a government backstop in case the homeowner defaults, according to the Journal. So far the bill has been endorsed by at least 16 Democratic and Republican House members as well as the National Association of Home Builders and other influential industry groups. In 2020 around 1.4 million American homes had a supplemental tiny home on their property, and the trend is only gathering pace. The US is currently short 4 million homes and almost one third of all households are deemed to be 'cost-burdened,' because they spend more than a third of their income on rent or mortgage payments, the Journal reported. The housing crisis is increasingly encroaching onto politics and lawmakers are taking note. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently rolled back a landmark environmental law in a bid to boost house building. Lawmakers are also warming up to the idea that tiny homes could be a way to ease the housing crisis as they can be erected quicker and more cheaply, and often encounter less red tape than traditional full-size properties. A new proposed law could make it easier to take on a loan to build a mobile home 'This is a really pressing issue for Americans,' Democrat Sam Liccardo said of the housing crisis Republican Andrew Garbarino (pictured) has worked with Democrat Liccardo to present the bill 'This happened to be a lower-hanging fruit,' Liccardo explained. 'It helps to start in an area where you can actually get something done.' For that reason modular home builders have targeted victims of the Los Angeles fires with offers of cheaper and quicker rebuilding options. Many homeowners who saw their properties burned to the ground were then met with the compounding heartbreak of home insurance payouts that will only cover a fraction of the rebuilding costs. Now businesses such as ICON and Hapi Homes see an opening to the mass market their tiny homes, which are built off-site with the help of 3-D printers and then transported to their final location. Building new homes off-site is often much cheaper because materials can be purchased in bulk and fewer workers are required for less time. After wildfires devastated Maui, Hawaii, in 2023 more than 100 modular companies flooded the building market. Five of those companies were commissioned by the state and nonprofit HomeAid Hawaii to build 450 temporary units for those who had lost their homes. Home sales are set to plunge to a 30-year low with experts warning the slump could deepen into a fullblown collapse. Just four million transactions are expected in the US this year, according to new data from Realtor.com. That would mark lowest level since 1995, according to the National Association of Realtors. Buyers have been scared off by a rocky economy, surging HOA fees, and punishing mortgage and insurance rates, leaving sellers slashing prices to lure offers. 'Even with more homes on the market, buyer response has remained muted compared to what we'd expect from similar supply shifts in the past,' Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale said of the shocking figures. The South and West have seen the biggest jump in homes for sale, but prices remain unaffordable. Meanwhile, the Northeast and Midwest are still tight markets with steadier activity. Thirtyyear mortgage rates will average 6.7 percent across 2025 and end the year at around 6.4 percent. That is slightly higher than previous forecasts. Sales of new homes dropped 13.7 percent in May compared to the month before Median home prices have jumped 52 percent since May 2019, far outpacing wage growth of just 30 percent, NAR data shows. 'The doubling in the monthly payment for a new set of buyers is hindering the market condition,' said NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun. Before the pandemic, a typical monthly payment on a home was roughly $1,000; now it's closer to $2,000. Despite the frozen market, economists do not predict a correction in home prices but conversely see them rising 2.5 percent through 2025. This is largely driven by sellers who refuse to drop their asking price and are instead pulling their homes off the market in droves. Others have been forced to slash their asking prices and accept a more reasonable offer in the current uncertain market. More than 20 percent of listed homes had price reductions in June, the highest share for the month since 2016. Phoenix, Arizona, is at the epicenter of the delistings trend, seeing more homes pulled from the market than any other area. Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale said the figures could hit a 30-year low Phoenix, Arizona is at the epicenter of the delistings trend Economists believe this is because areas in the South and West have seen inventory hit pre-pandemic levels but prices remaining flat or are even falling. Last week Moody's Chief Economist Mark Zandi issued a 'red flare' warning for the housing market and cautioned that it could drag down the entire economy. 'I sent off a yellow flare on the housing market in a post a couple of weeks ago, but I now think a red flare is more appropriate,' Moody's Chief Economist Mark Zandi wrote on X. A 'red flare' warning suggests the market is experiencing major instability and a fall is imminent. 'Home sales are already uber depressed,' Zandi wrote. 'Housing will thus soon be a full-blown headwind to broader economic growth, adding to the growing list of reasons to be worried about the economy's prospects later this year and early next.' A Florida woman's beach walk turned into a viral sensation after she unearthed a massive prehistoric tooth, likely from a giant shark that ruled Earth's oceans millions of years ago. The discovery has sparked a wave of excitement among fossil hunters and shark enthusiasts, as the perfectly preserved tooth likely belonged to one of the most fearsome sea creatures in Earth's history - the Megalodon. Nichole Mercuri, 26, was walking solo along the west coast of Florida when she spotted an enormous triangle-shaped object buried in the sand earlier this summer. She filmed the jaw-dropping moment when she pulled the tooth from the sand and posted it on her social media, where her video has racked up more than 929,000 likes, turning her fossil find into an online celebration. Mercuri said in a video shared on Instagram: 'There is no way, I just found, please be whole, oh my God!' A recent study published by the Florida Museum of Natural History confirmed that Megalodon teeth can range up to seven inches and were shaped like serrated knives. Experts say Megalodon teeth this size are extremely rare, especially when found intact. The extinct predator, which lived between 23 million and 3.6 million years ago, could grow as long as 60 feet and had a bite force strong enough to crush a car. Mercuri's discovery has reignited public fascination with prehistoric sea life, especially a creature that may have once hunted whales and rival sharks, and sparked debate over how many undiscovered fossils may still be buried in the sands of Florida. A Florida woman unearthed a massive prehistoric tooth buried in the sand The ancient tooth can be identified by its jagged edges, sharp triangular shape, and the deep gray or black color that fossilized material takes on after millions of years underground. 'It had that classic triangular form and serrated edges,' Mercuri told DailyMail.com. 'I've seen other people in person pull out Meg teeth in Florida before, so I knew what I was looking at.' Unlike bones, teeth made of hard enamel survive the test of time, making them the most common fossils left behind by the Megalodon, a predator so massive it had a jaw wide enough to swallow a human whole. The Florida Museum says these fossils usually surface after storms, dredging, or erosion dislodged from ancient sea beds and buried beneath modern beaches. Mercuri did not reveal the exact beach where she found the tooth, only saying it was on Florida's west coast. However, Mercuri added there is no special trick to finding something so rare. 'You can find teeth and fossils at certain beaches in Florida, Peace River, and inland,' she explained. 'There's honestly no secret, just a lot of time spent searching, learning from past finds, and keeping an open mind,' she continued. The Florida Museum noted that these fossils usually surface after storms or beach erosion 'Sometimes it's more about knowing where not to look. And occasionally, luck plays a part too,' the fossil hunter added. Mercuri has collected more than 100 shark teeth over the years, and recently began targeting spots with the right geological conditions where prehistoric sediment is more likely to surface. 'Since last year I started going to certain places, and that's when I started finding bigger teeth,' she said. Her room is now lined with shelves packed with shark teeth, shells, and fossils, a visual timeline of her passion, which began when she was a child walking the beach with her father. Mercuri's favorite piece is still the first whole Megalodon tooth she found in 2024. Her latest discovery was the second from this species. 'It's a baby Megalodon and definitely not as big as the other ones I have found, but it will always be my favorite,' she said. Though she's not a trained paleontologist, Mercuri said she has spent years studying fossils through online groups and community forums. Megalodon teeth can range up to seven inches and were shaped like serrated knives Mercuri joined Facebook groups where collectors swap tips on where to search and how to tell real fossils from broken shells or rocks. 'If someone wants to get into this, I always tell them to join a Facebook group,' she said. 'There are places in Florida you can find fossils or cool shells, you just have to go for it.' She encouraged beginners not to wait for a guide, just to start looking. 'You've got to do it yourself. That way you can find what you're looking for,' Mercuri said Wednesday. Megalodon teeth have been found around the world, but Florida is one of the top places in the US to spot them, thanks to its shifting ocean floor and storm-prone coastline. With over 250 teeth in rows like giant steak knives, the Megalodon ripped through prey with ease, making it one of the deadliest predators to ever swim in the ocean. The Florida Museum noted that areas like Venice Beach and Peace River are well-known among collectors, though some of the best finds still come from random walks on quiet beaches. Mercuri said what keeps her going is the thrill of the unexpected, and the rush of touching something that hasn't seen daylight for millions of years. 'Finding these pieces of history just lying in the sand is wild,' she said. 'It's like holding time in your hand.' 'Every time I go out, I just hope I'll find something special. And this one? It blew my mind.' It's something that has happened to around one in 10 women and one in 20 men. But detecting if your drink has been spiked could soon be as simple as dabbing some of it onto your arm. Scientists from the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology have developed a temporary tattoo that can detect the presence of 'date rape' drugs. If the tattoo detects even low concentrations of yhydroxybutyrate (GHB), it will change from yellow to red. Best of all, this process is almost instantaneous taking around one second, according to the researchers. There are already a range of measures available for drinkers to limit access to their drinks, including antispiking drink covers and films. However, the researchers hope the new tattoo will offer a quick and simple way to ensure beverages are safe. 'This innovation represents a proactive and accessible solution for preventing DFSAs [drugrelated sexual assault], enhancing personal safety, and fostering a sense of control and awareness in highrisk environments,' the team explained. Scientists from the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology have developed a temporary tattoo that can detect the presence of 'date rape' drugs Spiking occurs when someone puts drugs into another person's drink without their knowledge or consent often to make it easier to rape or sexually assault them (stock image) Spiking occurs when someone puts drugs into another person's drink without their knowledge or consent often to make it easier to rape or sexually assault them. 'Spiking can happen for different reasons for example, because someone thinks it's funny or because someone wants to commit a crime against the person they're spiking, such as theft, rape or sexual assault,' Rape Crisis explains on its website. 'Whatever the motive, spiking is never okay or funny. 'It can make a person extremely vulnerable and ill, and have a lasting impact on their wellbeing and life.' One of the most common date rape drugs is GHB, which can cause dizziness, confusion, shortterm amnesia, and even unconsciousness. Unfortunately, detecting if your drink has been spiked can prove tricky. Writing in their study, published in ACS Sensors, the team, led by Kim GyeongJi, explained: 'The drug used for date rape is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, which can be completely dissolved in beverages to avoid suspicion.' There are already several GHB detection measures available, including specialised strips or cards that change colour when exposed to the drug. If the tattoo detects even low concentrations of yhydroxybutyrate (GHB), it will change from yellow to red To create the tattoo stickers, the researchers placed a mold over the top of a thin plastic film, decorated with tattoolike designs Drink spiking statistics 1 in 10 women and 1 in 20 men have had their drink spiked and have had their drink spiked 40% of people do not think the police would believe them if they reported drink spiking Source: Rape Crisis Advertisement However, most of these are time consuming, and aren't exactly subtle. In their new study, the team set out to develop a more accessible alternative eventually settling on a temporary tattoo. To create the tattoo stickers, the researchers placed a mold over the top of a thin plastic film, decorated with tattoolike designs. They then poured in a gel mixture containing a chemical receptor that turns red in the presence of GHB. Finally, they coated the back of the sticker with glue, so it could stick to the skin. To test the tattoo's accuracy, the team applied dabs of GHB dissolved in a variety of beverages, incuding whisky, vodka, beer, soju, and coffee. Across all beverages, the researchers found that the tattoo could detect the drug - even at low concentrations. 'In practice, a wearer could dip a finger into a beverage, touch the drop to the sticker and see the result almost immediately,' the researchers explained in a statement. What's more, the sticker displays the positive result for up to 30 days, which could be helpful if it's needed as evidence. Unfortunately, the price and timeline for availablity of the tattoo remain unclear at this stay. However, the researchers reassure that the sticker is 'inexpensive and easy to manufacture', and say it will be commercially available 'soon'. From Elon Musk's sons X A-12 and Techno Mechanicus, to Nara Smith's children Rumble, Slim Easy, and Whimsy Lou, there is no shortage of celebrity kids with unique names. But as influencer Trisha Paytas names her third son Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon, psychologists have revealed why this might not be a good idea. From your choice of job to how likely you are to get a date, your name can influence more of your life than you might expect. Psychologists call this effect 'nominative determinism', and it is the theory that we are drawn towards life choices that match our names. When surnames first emerged in the 11th century, they were often a simple reflection of someone's career - with names like Hunter, Smith, or Baker. Nominative determinism takes this a step further and argues that someone called Baker really is much more likely to find themselves working in a bakery. However, it is bad news for children who end up with highly unusual and unique names. Studies suggest that people with unpopular names often end up less happy, worse off, and more dissatisfied with their lives. As Trisha Paytas named her baby boy Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon, psychologists have revealed why this might not be a good idea One of the simplest ways that your name might affect your life is by influencing the kind of career you gravitate towards. Psychologists attribute this to a phenomenon called 'implicit egoism', which is the idea that we prefer things that remind us of ourselves. In 2024, researchers from the University of Utah said that this could be why people disproportionately end up in careers which start with the first letter of their own name. For example, their study found that someone called Dennis is more likely to be a dentist while someone called Lawrence might be more likely to become a lawyer. This same effect could explain why Agatha Christie ended up as an author or why Ariana Grande has been spending more time acting than singing recently. People also tend to live in places which match their names, which should mean that London has more Lawrences and Lisas than Arthurs and Alices. That might mean Aquaman could be destined to take up a career in acting and live in Austin, Texas. However, having an unusual name comes with its own set of drawbacks. Your browser does not support iframes. Celebrities often give their children highly unusual names, such as 'Tradwife' influencer Nara Smith's children Rumble, Slim Easy, and Whimsy Lou. But psychologists say that unusual names can lead to lower levels of life satisfaction Some psychologists believe that our names are so key to our identity that having a bad one can have serious psychological impacts. In 2006, a pair of researchers from the University of Michigan found that people who didn't like their names were less well psychologically adjusted. Looking at siblings to control for factors such as background and childhood, people with lower rates of name satisfaction had lower self-esteem, life satisfaction, and spent more time unhappy. The researchers suggested that this was either because disliking their name caused lower self-confidence or their lower self-confidence caused them to dislike their name. In addition to affecting how you see yourself, your name also has a big impact on how others see you. Your name is the first thing most people learn about you and affects both how warm and competent others see you as being. A 2018 study from Syracuse University in New York found that the names Susan, Thomas, Madeline, Kathleen, and Felicia were seen as both warm and confident. Alvin, Duane, Rex, Roy, Mercedes, Vicki, and Trenton, on the other hand, were seen as having low warmth and confidence. Elon Musk's son X A-12 might struggle later in life since studies suggest that children with unpopular names are less likely to feel happy, become psychologically well adjusted, or even find dates Likewise, a study looking at hundreds of thousands of names conducted by the Institute of Psychology in Beijing found that people with names seen as less popular or having more negative connotations were more likely to commit crimes. Experts have warned about the rise in names with violent associations, which could mean bad news for Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly's son Saga Blade. Similarly, a German study conducted in 2011 found that people with unfashionable names were more likely to be rejected on dating apps. However, if you are willing to take a risk, having an unusual name could also have some benefits. Another study by the same team at Beijing's Institute of Psychology found that people with a rare name were more likely to have an unusual career such as a filmmaker, actor or judge. That might mean Nicholas Cage's son Kal-El Coppola Cage stands a good chance of following in his father's footsteps. Speaking to BBC Science Focus, lead author Professor David Zhu said: 'Early in life, some people may derive a sense of unique identity from their relatively unique names. 'Parents need to find ways to help the child appreciate his or her uniqueness, perhaps by giving the child a special nickname or frequently affirming the child's unique characteristics.' However, some studies have shown that unusual names can also be associated with increased creativity and higher chances of having an unusual career. That could be good news for Nicholas Cage's son Kal-El (pictured right) Likewise, some research even suggests that an odd name might help people become more creative and open-minded. Researchers at Arizona State University examined the names of CEOs at over a thousand US firms. They found that the rarer the CEO's name, the more distinctive their business strategy tended to be. That could mean Trisha Paytas' children, Malibu Barbie, Elvis, and the newborn Aquaman, might be more creative than your average John or Jane Doe. Hurricane trackers have gone on high alert, warning that a new Gulf Coast storm threatens nearly 12 million Americans in the storm's potential path this week. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued an urgent warning Wednesday morning, saying there is now a 10 percent chance the brewing storm system could develop into a tropical cyclone, bringing dangerous weather to coastal cities from Florida to Texas. Officials warned that the storm will likely cause intense rainfall, urban flooding, rough surf, and rip currents between Wednesday and Friday. Forecasters are expecting thunderstorms to move from the Carolinas, across Florida, and into the Gulf of America (formerly the Gulf of Mexico), where it'll affect Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. AccuWeather has forecasted several inches of rain across the northern Gulf Coast, with parts of the Interstate 10 corridor in Jacksonville, Florida, at risk of receiving more than six inches of rainfall in just a few hours over the weekend. The alert comes just a few weeks after catastrophic flash flooding tore through the Texas Hill Country, killing at least 135 people, including dozens of children at a summer camp. Hundreds of other floods across the country have led AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter to predict that 2025 may go down at the "worst flash flood year in modern US history." 'We've already seen a 70 percent jump in flash flood reports compared to the 10-year average, and we're only in July,' Porter revealed. So far this year, flash floods have killed at least 184 people across the US (Stock Image) According to officials, there is a 10 percent chance this system will turn into a named storm So far this year, flash floods have killed at least 184 people across the US, with major storms hitting Texas, North Carolina, New Mexico, Illinois, and multiple state in the Northeast. In last weekend alone, nearly 200 flash floods were reported as storms swept from the Midwest to the mid-Atlantic. At least one person died after a creek in Overland Park, Kansas, rapidly overflowed and swept through a running trail. Additional floods struck North Carolina, where six died during a 'one-in-1,000-year' rainfall event in Chapel Hill. New Mexico, Illinois, and the Northeast each experienced extreme flash flooding as well, with multiple records broken and more than 100 flash flood warnings issued on July 14. New York was also slammed by rare and extreme flooding earlier this month, when a line of storms dumped more than four inches of rain across parts of Staten Island, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. The downpour caused the citys second-heaviest hourly rainfall on record, sending water surging into subways, closing streets, and overwhelming the citys drainage system. At least two people were killed in New Jersey after their car was swept away by floodwaters. Officials have reported more than 4,800 flash flood in 2025, and experts warn the worst may be yet to come. This week's storm could follow a similar path, according to AccuWeather's team monitoring tropical storms, who said these floods are not just random events anymore. The conditions are being fueled by a combination of heat, moisture, and air pressure patterns Officials warned that it can cause intense rainfall stretching from Florida to Texas by Friday (Stock Image) 'Storms are being intensified by a warmer atmosphere and more moisture in the air. And we're seeing the toll, city by city,' Porter emphasized. Officials are now urging Americans in flood-prone areas to stay alert. Showers and storms are expected to intensify into the weekend with, increasing the chances of flash flooding, especially in urban and low-lying areas throughout the Gulf States. 'If this system develops, it'll likely follow a track similar to the rainstorm that hit last week, that means some of the same areas may face flooding all over again,' AccuWeather warned. Boaters and coastal residents are being told to brace for a rough rip current, and a sudden storm that could generate downpours and even brief tornadoes. Experts say the weather could change rapidly along the coast, especially with thunderstorms forming directly over warm Gulf waters. The conditions are being driven by a rare mix of extreme heat, trapped tropical moisture from a stronger-than-usual Bermuda High, and storm systems sweeping down from Canada. Men hold on to a tree after being caught in raging flood waters in Plainfield, New Jersey Brett Anderson, senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, said this storm system pattern is hitting more land than usual. 'We're seeing extreme rainfall across the entire US, not just the usual trouble spots,' he added. One major factor is the amount of water vapor in the air. In a 30 year of analysis, AccuWeather scientists found that atmospheric moisture has steadily increased every summer. That means storms now carry more water, and when they strike, they unleash more of it in less time. Dan DePodwin, AccuWeather's senior forecasting director, explained that in regions like Texas and New Mexico, drought has hardened the soil to the point where it behaves like concrete. 'When rain hits that ground, it can't soak in, it just runs off into rivers and streams and floods everything in its path,' DePodwin said. According to an AccuWeather report, six major weather events so far this year have caused a total economic loss of between $375 billion and $421 billion across the United States. The increasing frequency and severity of these events are expected to worsen this hurricane season, leading to more challenges in finding affordable insurance, especially for homeowners in areas vulnerable to hurricanes and floods. Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. 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If you want to learn more you can visit the Official Calocurb website to see reviews, studies, and more! Take the plunge and subscribe today to finally feel your best and look your best this summer! Erik Menendez has been rushed to hospital after being diagnosed with a serious medical condition. The 54-year-old was hospitalized after being diagnosed with kidney stones, according to TMZ. His family wouldn't confirm the condition to ABC News. Erik and his older brother Lyle, 57, were imprisoned for life after murdering their parents Kitty and Jose inside their swanky Beverly Hills home in 1989. Health problems: Erik Menendez has been rushed to hospital with a serious medical condition Following a years-long campaign for their case to be reviewed, a judge decided to reduce their sentences to 50 years to life, meaning they are now eligible for parole. The brothers are set to face a parole hearing in late August, with attorney Mark Geragos telling TMZ 'it's a serious condition'. He told the outlet that Erik is being treated behind bars at the Richard J Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. Geragos said: 'I just think he should be parole furloughed, I think is the proper term, and he could be medically furloughed in advance of the hearing so that he can work with the parole attorney and get up to speed and be ready and do it and give it his best shot. I think that it's the only fair and equitable thing to do.' The brothers' attorneys have long argued that their thirst for knowledge and pursuit of education during their time in prison proves they have spent the time wisely and bettered themselves. Infamous: Erik (right) and his older brother Lyle (left) were imprisoned for life after murdering their parents Kitty and Jose inside their swanky Beverly Hills home in 1996 The duo were 18 and 21 at the time they killed their parents. Defense attorneys argued the brothers acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father, while prosecutors said the brothers killed their parents for a multimillion-dollar inheritance. In Los Angeles County Superior Court in May, Judge Michael Jesic gave the brothers a renewed sense of hope by reducing their sentences. Jesic said: 'I'm not saying they should be released, it's not for me to decide. I do believe they've done enough in the past 35 years, that they should get that chance.' The previous LA County District Attorney George Gascon had opened the door to possible freedom for the brothers last fall by asking a judge to reduce their sentences. Notorious: Defense attorneys argued the brothers acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father Gascon's office said the case would've been handled differently today due to modern understandings of sexual abuse and trauma, and the brothers' rehabilitation over three decades in prison. A resentencing petition laid out by Gascon focuses on the brothers' accomplishments and rehabilitation. On August 20, 1989, armed with two shotguns, the brothers shot both parents to death as they watched a movie at their Beverly Hills mansion. Family portrait: The brothers are seen here alongside their mom Kitty and dad Jose Their trial prompted worldwide headlines. Prosecutors said their motive was greed, as they stood to inherit $14million from their parents. The brothers insisted they acted against a father who sexually abused them for years and a mother who turned a blind eye to the abuse. The first trial ended with a hung jury. But at a second trial in 1996 - where the judge refused to allow any evidence about the brothers being molested by their father - they were convicted and sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole. California Governor Gavin Newsom could seek to grant the siblings clemency, but said he would wait until their final parole board hearing to decide. A health alert has been issued for tourists traveling to Europe this summer as two potentially fatal diseases have been detected. In Italy, health authorities have reported the first locally acquired cases of dengue and chikungunya, mosquito-borne viruses that are typically found in tropical regions such as South America and India. Both were considered primarily imported diseases, found in individuals who had contracted them abroad. However, the two new cases indicate that the viruses were caught within the country, according to the British Foreign Office-backed Travel Health Pro. Mossie mayhem: Dengue and chikungunya have struck tourists in Emilia-Romagna, Italy Dengue fever cases have seen a significant rise globally, reaching a record high in 2024 with over 14 million reported cases, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. In June of this year, Australian holidaymakers were issued a warning after The Cook Islands, a nation in the South Pacific, declared the most recent outbreak of the disease after 19 cases, including two active cases, were recorded. Case counts have also been increasing in Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, Fiji and Kiribati. In July, Italy reported the first locally acquired case of dengue for the year, specifically in the Emilia-Romagna region, while 82 imported cases of the virus were recorded in several regions. Tropical origins: Both mosquito-borne viruses are typically found in South America and India Italian health officials also reported the first locally acquired case of chikungunya for the year, again found in the Emilia-Romagna region. An additional 50 imported cases of the virus were recorded across a number of regions. Earlier this month, holidaymakers jetting off to France were warned they were at risk of contracting chikungunya after eight local cases were recorded. The chikungunya outbreak has occurred far earlier in the year than is typical, and this could indicate the mosquitoes that carry chikungunya are becoming increasingly at home in France thanks to climate change, the warning said. Though not fatal, chikungunya can cause a range of effects, which are primarily marked by a sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain, while other common symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. While the acute phase of the illness usually resolves within a week or two, the joint pain can persist for weeks, months, or even years in some individuals. Spot the signs: Dengue fever causes flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever and joint pain Meanwhile, dengue fever can cause a range of effects, including mild flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever and joint pain. However, in some cases, infections can progress to severe dengue, which can cause potentially life-threatening complications such as internal bleeding and organ damage, and death. Holidaymakers are urged to contact a local health professional immediately if they suspect they have been bitten by a mosquito during their travels. A keen traveller has opened up about his experience of a dreamy tourist hotspot and revealed the less desirable side of the island rarely shown on social media. Joshwa, a travel influencer who regularly posts about his journeys around the world on TikTok, posted a series of clips from his time in Bali. Bali is an island in Indonesia, located within Southeast Asia. Known for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine and jaw-dropping landscapes, the island is often portrayed as a luxury location. However, though Joshwa praised the 'fabulous culture' and 'great hospitality', he noted there were other aspects, including how locals don't reap the same benefits as tourists. One of the content creator's videos showed decrepit buildings, abandoned beanbags along a beach and litter piled high. The clip also featured footage of makeshift buildings with metal roofs and poorly maintained roads. He captioned the video with: 'Amazingly stunning Island. A traveller has opened up about his experience of dreamy tourist hotspot Bali, pictured, and revealed the less desirable side of the island rarely shown on social media Known for its beautiful beaches, delicious Balinese cuisine and jaw-dropping landscapes, the island is often portrayed as a luxury location 'Bali's fabulous culture, beautiful people, with great hospitality did not fail to impress. 'However, the island lacks the infrastructure that it needs to be able to sustain 1. The littering and pollution issue and 2. the over tourism issue that currently is not sustainable.' The footage attracted over 700,000 views and thousands of likes, with many taking to the comments to share their verdicts on the tourist hotspot. One penned: 'Went once. Not for me. Gilly Islands were the best part about the trip but Bali is a hard no for me.' While someone else pointed out the economic situation of the country and said: 'The biggest bill in this country is literally $6, with the average salary $250 per month, what do people expect.' Another added: 'You go to another country for a cultural experience thats Bali stay at the resort if your an influencer cause thats who you are a resorter I like to embrace and immerse myself in the culture mix with the locals they are beautiful people!' 'Finally someone is actually showing facts,' one watcher chimed in. In another video, that attracted over one million views, Joshwa highlighted the struggles of local residents in Bali. Traveller and content creator Joshwa praised the 'fabulous culture' and 'great hospitality' but noted there were other aspects not often shown and posted footage that featured piles of litter The clip also featured footage of makeshift buildings with metal roofs and poorly maintained roads The camera panned to show a busy restaurant, before flipping to fragile-looking buildings. At one point, it featured a sign that read 'please stop littering', stood next to a pile of plastic bottles and other rubbish. He captioned the video: 'I really agree with what Zoe said. Bali was very pretentious for me. Maybe just me, but full of people that aren't really my style. you get one or two humans. others seem to be lost in a world. somewhere. 'The locals are the best people, so caring, kind and hospitality is off the charts. it's such a shame they can't share their Island and enjoy it to the full extent tourists do!. 'I'm going to do a longer reel on this but it's just crazy it came up at the same time. because just the other day I was saying how Bali is for pollution, poverty, lack of health standards. 'Whilst everyone is in a beach cop live in lavish life spending thousands of pounds and the locals cannot enjoy their life or even integrate with the tourists because of the lack of the above. 'Molly Mae's sister wasn't telling lies.' Joshwa's videos come after Molly Mae's sister, Zoe Rae, left Bali after just 48 hours because it didn't live up to her expectations. @plantpotworldwide I really agree with what Zoe said. Bali was very pretentious for me. Maybe just me, but full of people that aren't really my style. you get one or two humans. others seem to be lost in a world. somewhere. The locals are the best people, so caring, kind and hospitality is off the charts. it's such a shame they can't share their Island and enjoy it to the full extent tourists do!. I'm going to do a longer reel on this but it's just crazy it came up at the same time. because just the other day I was saying how Bali is for pollution, poverty, lack of health standards. Whilst everyone is in a beach cop live in lavish life spending thousands of pounds and the locals cannot enjoy their life or even integrate with the tourists because of the lack of the above. Molly Mae's sister wasn't telling lies. #PlantPotJosh #PlantPotWorldWide #TravelTikTok #fyp #Viral #Travel #Bali #Asia #MollyMae #Indonesia #Creator #RealLife original sound - Daily Mail UK In another video, the camera panned to show a busy restaurant, before flipping to fragile-looking buildings Other footage showed poorly maintained roads and piles of broken items and rubbish The fitness influencer, 28, had planned the trip to Indonesia with her husband Danny to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. And despite staying in a huge sea view room at the Radisson Blu, a five-star hotel, they decided to leave early and jet to Dubai instead. Zoe explained that Bali looks better on social media than in real life, as influencers make it look luxurious, despite it being a developing country. In a new YouTube video, Zoe told the camera: 'Since landing in Bali, something for us wasn't quite right. 'We came here with high expectations because we had seen on social media that everyone was having such a lovely time. Lovely places to eat and beaches, and lovely gyms and coffee shops. 'But I don't think the reality of Bali is shown much at all, and I do think it is down to a lot of influencers posting the more luxury side of things.' She added: 'Before joining the army, I spent five months travelling South East Asia. I did Thailand, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, I did a lot and spent time in these countries. But there is something very different about Bali. 'We got told Uluwatu where we are now is one of the best places to go, so if this is one of the better places, I'm not sure where the other places are like. 'I wasn't going to sit down and say anything, but people want to know.' Joshwa's videos come after Molly Mae's sister, Zoe Rae, pictured, left Bali after just 48 hours because it didn't live up to her expectations Danny then joined the video and said: 'You either go on holiday to travel and experience culture or you want to go away and relax.' Zoe continued: 'Yeah, and we could have got a flight tomorrow as today is our anniversary, but time is precious and we just want to get out, and why delay it. 'We missed the mark, maybe we didn't do our own research, maybe it is our own fault. I did a lot of research though. 'I think it is just personal preference, and our preference was that this isn't for us, and we are making the executive decision to go enjoy our anniversary somewhere we know that we love and can relax and can drink the water.' From the sandy beaches of the Bahamas, to the stunning landscapes in Iceland, it might not be surprising that such locations attract millions of tourists a year. Aside from visitors, locals impact how busy a destination may feel too, and in some cases tourists can exceed the residents. Go2Africa has ranked the 15 most crowded locations, and one European country sits at the top spot with a whopping 6,800,000 visits a year, compared to the tiny population of 882. The huge difference at Vatican City means locals are massively outnumbered by 7709.75 tourists to one. As the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City attracts many visitors for its religious and historical importance. Andorra, which is located between France and Spain, comes second with 9,600,000 tourists a year compared to its 81,938 local population. Known for its amazing ski spots, Andorra is home to the stunning mountains and is a popular destination for winter sports. So many people visit that there's 117.16 tourists per local annually. Go2Africa has ranked the 15 most crowded locations, and Vatican City (pictured) sits at the top spot with a whopping 6,800,000 visits a year, compared to the tiny population of 882 Andorra, which is located between France and Spain, comes second with 9,600,000 tourists a year compared to its 81,938 local population San Marino (pictured) places third and attracts 2,000,000 travellers each year and is home to 33,581 people While San Marino, near north-central Italy, sees 2,000,000 travellers each year and is home to 33,581 people. San Marino has breath-taking scenery as well as plenty of historical monuments and buildings to attract visitors. The country sees 59.56 visitors per one resident each year. The Bahamas has a huge 11,220,000 influx of tourists on an annual basis, while 401,283 live there, placing it fourth. With clear blue waters and stunning beaches, tourists flock to the Bahamas on an annual basis to soak up the sun. Some 27.96 tourists dreamy Caribbean location per one local. At fifth, Saint Kitts and Nevis attracts 875,085 guests but has a population of 46,843 locals. The tropical Caribbean island was loved by Princess Diana and is known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, with 18.68 tourists per local. The Bahamas has a huge 11,220,000 influx of tourists on an annual basis, while 401,283 live there, placing it fourth At fifth, Saint Kitts and Nevis attracts 875,085 guests but has a population of 46,843 locals With the summer holidays beginning, many Brits may be trying their best to find a cheap getaway. And the exact destinations families can bag a bargain holiday have been revealed. From the Mediterranean to Europe, there's deals available from as low as 562 per person in three to four star hotels. TravelSupermarket analysed family holiday searches between July 6 - 20 for departures between July 18 and August 24 and compiled a list of the top ten last minute holidays at great prices. The top two destinations are both in Turkey and priced under 600, with Dalaman coming first at 562 per person, and Antalya following at 591 per person. Costa Brava in Spain places third, costing 640 per person, while Lanzarote is fourth at 666 per person. Located south of Barcelona, Costa Dorada comes fifth at 679, and is followed by Hammamet in Tunisia with an affordable North African alternative costing 701 per person. Back in Europe, Tenerife places seventh at 701, while Costa Blanca ranks eighth at 723. The exact destinations families can bag a bargain holiday have been revealed, and Dalaman, Turkey came first at 562 per person. Pictured: Sarsala Bay in Dalaman Antalya, Turkey, followed in second place at 591 per person. Pictured: A view of Alanya city Costa Brava (pictured) in Spain places third, costing 640 per person, while Lanzarote is fourth at 666 per person Ten bargain holidays Dalaman, Turkey - 562 per person Antalya, Turkey - 591 per person Costa Brava, Spain - 640 per person Lanzarote, Spain - 666 per person Costa Dorada, Spain - 679 per person Hammamet, Tunisia - 701 per person Tenerife, Spain - 701 per person Costa Blanca, Spain - 723 per person Gran Canaria, Spain - 737 per person Algarve, Portugal - 738 per person Advertisement Gran Canaria comes ninth at 737, and Portugal's Algarve finishes tenth at 738 per person. However, some destinations seem to spiral with their prices. A trip to Paphos in Cyprus can be as high as 1,146 per person. While Egypt was priced at 1,027 per person and Ibiza in Spain came to 901 per person. Steph Marinkovic, Head of Editorial at TravelSupermarket, described the prices as 'great value' considering the current market. She said: 'We're seeing exceptional value across traditional favourites like the Spanish costas and Canaries, while Turkey continues to offer unbeatable prices for families. 'The fact that families can expect to find average prices from under 600 for 7-night breaks to these stunning destinations is great value in today's market. 'Whether you're drawn to Turkey's all-inclusive resorts, Spain's family-friendly costas, or Portugal's stunning Algarve, there are still exceptional deals available for last-minute bookers.' Chris Webber, Head of Holidays and Deals at TravelSupermarket, put the deals in Turkey down to the increase in capacity in flights to the area. He explained: 'Turkey's dominance in our rankings isn't surprising given the massive capacity increases we've seen this year. Costa Brava in Spain places third, costing 640 per person, while Lanzarote (pictured) is fourth at 666 per person Located south of Barcelona, Costa Dorada comes fifth at 679, and is followed by Hammamet in Tunisia (pictured) with an affordable North African alternative costing 701 per person 'This year SunExpress has added 10,000 extra seats and new flights to Dalaman and Antalya, Jet2 has launched from London Luton with Turkish routes, and Ryanair has introduced new Stansted services to both Dalaman and Bodrum. 'Dalaman has been a consistently cheap beach destination in our data, so these last-minute prices fit perfectly with that trend. 'We're operating in a lates market now, with more price-conscious customers waiting until the last minute to bag bargains our data shows exactly where you should start that search.' It comes after the most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world were revealed, with a European country taking the top spot With endless sandy beaches and countless restaurants, hotels and holiday homes, people in Spain should be spoilt for choice when it comes to holidaying in their own country. Instead, they are having to opt for trips abroad while everyone else flies in to enjoy the summer months. Last year, the holiday destination attracted 94 million tourists, while Spanish citizens reduced their travel in the country by 0.8 per cent, according to The Times. Local residents have been priced out of popular resorts including Valencia, a city with rich history and beautiful coastal areas. Carlos Moreno, 63, who works as a doorman in Madrid told The Times how the price to rent a flat for even a week has become unattainable. He said: 'We used to pay about 1,200 for an apartment for 15 days. Now a week costs that much or even double. 'We can't afford a hotel and we don't fancy camping.' Instead of heading to Valencia with his wife like usual, they have had to stay in Madrid. With endless sandy beaches and countless restaurants, hotels and holiday homes, Spaniards should be spoilt for choice when it comes to holidaying in their own country. Pictured: A view of Valencia Local residents have been priced out of popular resorts including Valencia , a city with rich history and beautiful coastal areas While Wendy Davila, from Alicante, told Travel And Tour World how she finds beach areas in Spain too costly. She said: 'Prices are exorbitant. The whole coast of Spain is very expensive.' The 26-year-old added: 'Now you can't vacation wherever you want, but wherever you can afford.' Instead of heading to popular coastal locations in Spain, locals are heading inland and according to the publication 1.7million Spaniards last year preferred central destinations over beaches. There's a variety of reasons behind the shift, with hotel prices rising more then 50 per cent in the last four years and even the cost of a camping trip has shot up by 11 per cent. While the price of apartments have reportedly increased by 37 per cent. If a Spaniard does choose to go away to a local beach, they then have to face the rising cost of eating out which has increased by more than 21 per cent since 2021. Flights have also shot up within the country by 8 per cent between January and April. Carlos Moreno, 63, who works as a doorman in Madrid told The Times how the price to rent a flat for even a week has become unattainable Instead of heading to popular coastal locations in Spain, locals are heading inland and according to the publication 1.7million Spaniards last year preferred central destinations over beaches It may not be surprising, then, that local residents are also increasingly opting for trips out of the country to more affordable destinations. Alex Villeyra, tourism data company Mabrian boss, told The Times: 'Last year, Spaniards reduced their domestic travel by 0.8 per cent, while increasing their international trips by 12 per cent.' The cost of living crisis in Spain is having an impact too, with a third of Spaniards saying they can't afford a week-long holiday, according to National Statistics Institute, The Olive Press reported. Experts blame staggering rental price increases, with 40 per cent of those renting not being able to afford regular holidays, in contract to 28 per cent of those who own a home. Tensions in the country over tourism have been brimming recently, too. Last year, anti-tourism protestors filled the streets of the Basque city of San Sebastian. Activists walked behind a banner that said in Basque and Spanish: 'Decrease in tourism now.' While demonstrations on April 5th took place across major Spanish towns and cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma. Tensions in the country over tourism have been brimming recently, too. Pictured: Anti-tourism protestors in Barcelona last year According to organizers, 30,000 people took to the streets of Malaga - a seaside town in the south of Spain - as they demanded solutions to the housing crisis, with banners reading: 'Houses for the people of Malaga. Hotels for tourists, affordable rents.' But police reported that around 5,000 demonstrators took part in the Malaga march. Residents were photographed holding banners with the slogan: 'Houses for the people of Malaga. Hotels for tourists'. Some also hung posters from their balconies and windows with messages saying: 'Housing is a right, not a business'. We all know that train fares are extortionate but one passenger discovered a way of travelling around the country for free after a delayed trip to Scotland. Ed Wise, 29, lives in London but makes the long journey all the way to Dumfries to visit his family six times a year and faces shocking ticket prices each time. But one trip in 2022 to visit his sister changed everything for the writer. His train from London to Scotland via the Avanti West Coast was delayed by more than three hours. Ed told the Big Issue: 'The train manager was incredibly apologetic and so kept coming on the intercom to apologise.' During the journey, the train came to a complete stop for more than an hour. Despite the inconvenience, Ed discovered he could get his money back using the Delay Repay scheme after the train operator 'gave a really detailed explanation' of the process. The nationwide scheme is used by most train companies, but not all, and allows customers to claim compensation for cancelled or delayed trips. A train passenger discovered a way of travelling around the country for free after a delayed trip to Scotland Ed Wise, 29, lives in London but makes the long journey all the way to Dumfries to visit his family six times a year and faces shocking ticket prices each time The amount of money a customer will receive back can depend on the length of the delay and the train operator's scheme. 'Then, on my way home, my train was delayed too so I got all my money back for that as well,' Ed added. Ed's journey was impacted by strike action and began to book his future train tickets during planned strikes. However, when the strikes eased in 2023 he noted other factors that could potentially cause delays to journeys too. Ed said his train journey had RMT strike action scheduled, as well as repair work near Preston. 'That was when I worked out the second part of the holy triad engineering works.' He revealed how train companies often notify the public when they plan works and anything scheduled can be found on Network Rail. 'The ball is in your court as a consumer, the power is in your hands, as long as you are forensic enough to analyse the information,' Ed added. Another factor the savvy train passenger notes is the weather. But one trip in 2022 to visit his sister changed everything for the writer. His train from London to Scotland via the Avanti West Coast was delayed by more than three hours Despite the inconvenience, Ed discovered he could get his money back using the Delay Repay scheme after the train operator 'gave a really detailed explanation'of the process Ed explained how extreme weather, such as snow or floods, has helped him to save money in the past by causing delays. Though Ed has managed to save more than 1,000 with his train ticket hacks, he admits there is a catch. He said: 'You do have to be willing to go through the arduous pain of a 10-hour journey thats supposed to be five.' Long waits can also have unexpected impacts on the behaviour of other passengers too, Ed revealed. He shared how during a delayed journey from London to Glasgow people were discussing how to 'raid' the food cart, which was stocked up but due to staff shortages wasn't in service. Not every Delay Repay application has been successful either, but Ed has still managed to save plenty of money. An American tourist who visited Wetherspoons for the first time has revealed his shock over the budget boozer's 'ridiculous' menu prices. Joel Simpson, who goes by ItsJPS on YouTube, documented his trip to the UK this month, spending the majority of his week-long break in London and Brighton. Towards the tail end of his trip, the content creator decided to stop by Yorkshire, where he toured the scenic moors of the Yorkshire Dales and marvelled at the historic Durham Cathedral. Accompanied by three British friends, Joel decided to seal his visit to the northern region with an obligatory meal at Wetherspoons, which he excitedly admitted he was trying out for the first time. A video uploaded to his channel on 18 July shows the group heading into The Postern Gate, one of the chain's five York venues, before taking their seats and ordering from the menu. The following scene shows a hearty spread of loaded chips, ten chicken wings and a pepperoni pizza, which Joel noted was all purchased for 15. He commented: 'It's stupid cheap. It's so much food... I think we'll be able to finish this... maybe.' The tourist added that he 'wished' the United States offered similar value-for-money meals in restaurants and politely encouraged Brits to 'be more grateful.' Towards the tail end of his trip to the UK, content creator Joel decided to seal his visit to York with an obligatory meal at Wetherspoons for the first time Joel went on to order a series of alcoholic drinks, including four shots of AU Vodka, a pint of Stowford Press cider and a glass of pink Gordon's gin and lemonade. He later reflected on Wetherspoons jaunt, jokingly adding that he enjoyed his 'couple of drinks' but further admitted he was blown away by their 'ridiculously cheap' prices. In another video, Joel also captured his first Sunday dinner experience at a Toby Carvery. Presenting to the camera his mega-packed plate of meat, potatoes and all the trimmings, he commented on the 'ridiculous' options at the pub chain. He added: 'I've had Sunday roasts in the past, but not with this many ingredients on the plate. The plate is so damn full you don't even know what's on it. Half the plate is covered up.' In the comments, hundreds of British viewers commended the American visitor's enthusiasm for UK pub culture. One person wrote: 'Your passion for the pub is admirable. You are truly a Brit at heart.' Another said: 'Joel, enjoyed this video a lot. You are honestly a little treasure. Thank you for embracing the UK so much.' Joel went on to order a series of alcoholic drinks, including four shots of AU Vodka. He later said he enjoyed his 'couple of drinks' but admitted he was blown away by their 'ridiculously cheap' prices In the comments, hundreds of British viewers commended the American visitor's enthusiasm for UK pub culture. Finally, one viewer joked: 'So glad to see that you have arrived home with a drink problem. Problem - NO Wetherspoons.' Meanwhile an American tourist visiting the UK has admitted that British weather 'feels different' and the heat is more severe. Content creator Kalani Ghost Hunter, real name Kalani Smith, from Tennessee, has spent months travelling around the UK in a bid to immerse himself in the culture - from sampling afternoon teas to attempting to find the best chippy. Americans have been known to poke fun at Brits who complain about the weather with some calling them 'dramatic' and claiming they wouldn't 'survive in the US' - where the temperatures are generally much hotter. British holidaymakers flying in or out of Majorca this Friday are being urged to brace for travel disruption as furious ground staff threaten to 'paralyse' Palma's airport during the busy summer getaway. The protest, scheduled for July 25 between 8am and 12pm, coincides with the start of a Bank Holiday weekend in Spain and could spark chaos for thousands of passengers. Union leaders say they are fed up with poor working conditions and claim they are being 'suffocated' by a crisis gripping the aviation sector in the Balearic Islands. In a fiery statement, workers warned that unless Spanish airport authority Aena steps in immediately, they will 'raise the tone of the protest' with industrial action designed to bring Son Sant Joan airport to a 'standstill'. Their key demand is the creation of a joint task force made up of Aena, the regional government and union representatives to find solutions to what they describe as years of abuse and neglect. The UGT union has accused airport service firms of breaching labour rights and creating 'inhumane' shifts that make work-life balance impossible. They say many staff are forced to accept 'basic contracts of less than 30 hours' while being expected to do 'countless hours of overtime without any control.' Their demands include the proper scheduling of holidays, clearer pathways for professional development, and the employment of qualified staff for supervisory and driving duties so others are not pushed to breaking point. Furious ground staff threaten to 'paralyse' Palma's airport during the busy summer getaway - Picture for illustrative purposes They have threatened to 'raise the tone of the protest' with industrial action designed to bring Son Sant Joan airport to a 'standstill The union has also asked for improved working equipment to protect staff from the scorching heat, new uniforms, and raincoats for when there's a downpour. Additionally, they want free parking for employees and a canteen with affordable food. UGT has accused Swissport, Groundforce, Menzies, easyJet, Pasarelas, Eurowings, PMR's, Jet2, Ryanair and South of 'exploitation.' Bosses have also been condemned over 'endless and painful' construction work at the airport, which union officials say is 'damaging' workers' health and putting their safety at risk. They have warned that companies are refusing to engage with their concerns and are 'undermining' the union's ability to represent staff. It comes as the EU has warned of a summer of travel disruptions due to strikes at major airports. In Italy, air traffic controllers are set to strike on July 26 from 1pm to 5pm local time. Though the UK doesn't have the same tropical temperatures as the Caribbean, some of its beaches are just as dreamy. Stunning seaside spots can be found across England, Scotland, Northern Island and Wales. Holiday rental portal Holidu analysed thousands of coastal destinations in the country and identified the top 25, based on user review data on Google Maps. The most-loved beach, Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is often described as having 'views reminiscent of the Caribbean'. With a beautiful green backdrop, the remote beach has turquoise waters and a golden sandy shore that mirrors what one might find on a tropical island. It has an impressive 4.9 average rating on Google Maps from 1668 reviews and outshines all the other sandy shores analysed. Another Welsh beach closely follows in second place - Mwnt in Ceredigion. The sheltered bay scored 4.9 with 722 Google Map verdicts. The most-loved beach, Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is often described as having 'views reminiscent of the Caribbean' With a beautiful green backdrop, the remote beach has turquoise waters and a golden sandy shore that mirrors what one might find on a tropical island It has an impressive 4.9 average rating on Google Maps from 1668 reviews and outshines all the other sandy shores analysed Woolacombe Beach in Devon comes third, and is known for being popular destination for families and surfers to enjoy the golden sands and consistent waves. From its 32,006 reviews the holiday hotspot scored 4.8. While Dunraven Bay, in Glamorgan, Wales, was also rated 4.8 and placed fourth. The sandy Welsh beach is a great spot for rock pooling and fossil hunting. In fifth, with a rating of 4.8, is Trebarwith Strand Beach and is a popular spot for surfers. It even has a stream of fresh water and is dog friendly. Cuckmere Haven places sixth and is a peaceful, pebbled beach in East Sussex. With an impressive rating of 4.8 and 1581 reviews, Cuckmere is well worth a visit and is overlooked by the white chalky cliffs of the Seven Sisters. The secluded Man O'War Beach in Dorset ranks seventh with a rating of 4.8 and is on the east side of the iconic Durdle Door. Woolacombe Beach in Devon comes third, and is known for being popular destination for families and surfers to enjoy the golden sands and consistent waves While Dunraven Bay, in Glamorgan, Wales, was also rated 4.8 and placed fourth. The sandy Welsh beach is a great spot for rock pooling and fossil hunting Another Devon-based location, Bigbury Beach comes eighth and has unique access to Burgh Island. Visitors can visit the island by walking along a causeway at low tide or taking a sea tractor at high tide. Gullane Beach in East Lothian, Scotland, places ninth and offers a stunning, sandy shore. Bringing Northern Island into the mix, Benone Beach ranks tenth and is located in County Londonderry. A guest on The Repair Shop broke down in tears as she received the last gift her father gave her before his tragic death, which has haunted her 'all through life'. The BBC One programme sees guests enlist craft and artisan experts to restore their cherished heirlooms and keepsakes to their former glory. A special Favourite Fixes episode, which aired on Tuesday, saw presenters Will Kirk, 40, and Dominic Chinea, 39, revisit some of the show's best moments. It included a trip to the workshop by a guest named Emma who brought along a puppet her father gave her in the seventies when she was just eight years old. The toy is called Billy Willy, she explained: 'My dad got cancer so my nan thought it would be good for him to go to Scotland to a health farm. 'He was gone probably a couple of months, which is a long time when you're eight. A guest on The Repair Shop broke down in tears as she received the last gift her father gave her before his tragic death, which has haunted her 'all through life' The BBC One programme sees guests enlist craft and artisan experts to restore their cherished heirlooms and keepsakes to their former glory It included a trip to the workshop by a guest named Emma who brought along a puppet (pictured before the transformation) her father gave her in the seventies when she was just eight years old 'I remember he phoned us and said what did we want as a present when he came back. 'In the seventies, puppets were all the rage! I just asked for a puppet and I got Billy Willy! I was absolutely thrilled with him. 'It was the last thing that my dad gave me because he died soon after. We don't have many photographs of dad so this is all I've got of my dad. I've got nothing else. 'That's why he's so special. I don't think I ever really went anywhere without him!' But she said her own children sadly 'absolutely hate' the puppet as cracks on its face and a missing leg give it a creepy, unsettling look. It adds to his existing clownish expression, with a red nose and smile and big wide eyes, alongside a shock of red hair and a clashing patterned outfit. Emma wanted to bring her beloved toy back into the family fold again: 'I think he'd be over the moon to know that Billy Willy was getting a second chance. 'And hopefully, you know, grandchildren that he'll never see will get to play with him.' Emma (pictured) explained: 'It was the last thing that my dad gave me because he died soon after. We don't have many photographs of dad so this is all I've got of my dad. I've got nothing else' She continued: 'That's why he's so special. I don't think I ever really went anywhere without him!' Ceramics expert Kirsten Ramsay, helped by soft toy restoration experts the Bear Ladies (pictured), had a mammoth task on their hand to revitalise the puppet She reflected: 'It's difficult to understand what happens when you lose a parent and you take it with you all through your life. It's always there!' Ceramics expert Kirsten Ramsay, helped by soft toy restoration experts the Bear Ladies, had a mammoth task on their hand to revitalise the puppet. But later in the episode, when the guest was reunited with her beloved childhood toy, it was clear all their efforts had been worth it. Admitting she had never been parted from Billy Willy before, an excited Emma could not wait to be reunited - and soon broke down in tears upon the final reveal. 'Oh my God! That's amazing! He looks like when he was new!', she exclaimed. 'Oh my God, you are amazing! He's still the same, oh it's lush, that is so good! He's brilliant, thank you!' Emma explained: 'I think it would mean so much to my dad, maybe when dad bought this for me, he knew that I needed something that was going to make me smile. 'It definitely makes me smile and cry.' But later in the episode, when the guest was reunited with her beloved childhood toy (pictured, after the transformation), it was clear all their efforts had been worth it Admitting she had never been parted from Billy Willy before, an excited Emma (pictured) could not wait to be reunited - and soon broke down in tears upon the final reveal 'Oh my God! That's amazing! He looks like when he was new!', she exclaimed. Pictured: Expert Kirsten Emma (pictured) explained: 'I think it would mean so much to my dad, maybe when dad bought this for me, he knew that I needed something that was going to make me smile' It comes after a rediscovered episode of the BBC programme also got everyone in the workshop feeling very emotional. A man named Iain McPherson met with silversmith Brenton West in hopes his prized possession could be overhauled. The instalment, originally released in 2022, saw him bring in a bookend, with a statue of an Special Air Service (SAS) soldier on it. His father, who served in the special forces unit of the British Army, was given the keepsake for its 50th anniversary in 1991. Iain explained his father left him the figurine when he passed away in 2002 - but it had unfortunately sustained extensive damage over the years. The resin model had its head accidentally knocked off when the father and son had once been doing a spot of decorating. Several other sections had also chipped off, with Iain luckily keeping most of the detached pieces, which could be used in the repair work. The man told expert Brenton more about his father - and his horrifying near-death experience: 'He joined the army as soon as he could in the Second World War. It comes after a rediscovered episode (pictured) of the BBC programme also got everyone in the workshop feeling very emotional A man named Iain McPherson met with silversmith Brenton West in hopes his prized possession (pictured) could be overhauled 'Then, he joined the SAS when it was formed [in 1941]. The special forces, they do a lot of fighting behind enemy lines.' Referring to the Nazi occupation of Greece from 1941 to 1944, he continued: 'In my dad's case, he was over in Greece quite a lot. 'He tried to liberate the Greeks and while he was there, he got wounded.' Severely injured, his father was on the verge of death - before, in a moment of astonishing luck, Greek resistance groups found and saved him. He was quickly losing blood - so the soldiers had to take decisive action, Iain said: 'He had three bullets in his leg and they actually cut his leg off on a kitchen table.' Expert Brenton was left completely shocked by this, replying incredulously: 'They cut his leg off?' He could only listen on in stunned silence as Iain said despite how harrowing the moment was, his 'very modest', highly decorated father never spoke about it. Brenton responded: 'You find that with true heroes. They don't often talk about it.' Aware of the importance of the item to the guest, Brenton (pictured) got to work bringing it back to its former glory And when he unveiled the final result to Iain (pictured) later in the episode, the guest was totally shocked: 'Woah' Iain was touched by this and quickly became overcome: 'Everybody said he was a great guy which is why this means a lot. I'm getting upset.' Aware of the importance of the item to the guest, Brenton got to work bringing it back to its former glory. And when he unveiled the final result to Iain later in the episode, the guest was totally shocked: 'Woah.' Iain soon broke into an enormous grin, saying the figurine was 'back to his old self' - before breaking down again, wiping away tears with a handkerchief. 'I don't think I could ask for better', he said, adding: 'You've fair done me proud and my dad too.' The Repair Shop is available to watch and to stream on BBC One and iPlayer. The first Married At First Sight UK star for the upcoming 2025 series of the E4 show has been revealed as a dental practice manager. Leisha Lightbody, who has been dubbed 'one of the most stunning in the show's history,' is reportedly due to take part in the social experiment later this year. The popular programme sees a selection of single people tie the knot with someone just moments after meeting down the aisle. And the couples are put together by relationship experts Mel Schilling, 53, Paul C Brunson, 46, and Charlene Douglas, 43. Each week they are helped by the trio to see if they are meant to be together, and have the option to leave the experiment if it is not going well. Hopefully Leisha finds someone that she is looking for during the tenth series of the programme. The first Married At First Sight UK star for the upcoming 2025 series of the E4 show has been revealed as a dental practice manager, Leisha Lightbody Leisha, who has been dubbed 'one of the most stunning in the show's history,' is reportedly due to take part in the social experiment later this year A source told The Sun: 'Leisha is one of the most stunning brides MAFS UK has ever had, and shes sure to catch the eye of all the grooms on the new series - not just her own. 'Leisha is obviously sworn to secrecy about being on the show, which filmed earlier this year, so there are no signs of it on her social media yet. 'The cast are set to be announced next month, with the show airing later in the autumn.' When the publication contacted C4 for comment, a spokesperson told them: 'We do not comment on speculation. The MAFS UK cast will be announced in the coming weeks.' MailOnline has also contacted C4 for comment. Applications for the upcoming series of the show closed back in February. Although nothing has been confirmed, the programme usually airs in September each year and wraps up in the middle of November. Viewers also usually enjoy the instalments from Monday to Thursday on E4. Married At First Sight originally hit our screens in the UK in 2015. The popular programme sees a selection of single people tie the knot with someone just moments after meeting down the aisle (Last year's cast pictured) Last year's season of the UK version of MAFS was a huge hit, with the likes of Luke and Amy, Adam and Polly, Nathan and Lacey, and Ross and Sacha making it to the final vows There has been nine successful series so far since then and fans will be treated to another one very soon. One of the experts Mel has teased what viewers can expect in the coming months. The Aussie TV star dubbed the cast as 'authentic, relatable and surprising'. She added: 'I have several favourites, I do. It's like choosing a favourite child but I do. 'I do have quite a few favourites this year.' And back in February she shared a stunning snap from the set in a light pink suit. 'Lets go! MAFS UK 2025,' she captioned the post. Last year's season of the UK version of MAFS was a huge hit, with the likes of Luke and Amy, Adam and Polly, Nathan and Lacey, and Ross and Sacha making it to the final vows. Despite some of the relationships looking promising, none of them are together anymore. The Only Murders In The Building season five return date has finally been confirmed as Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and Martin Short reunite in a first look picture. The beloved crime show will be making its comeback to Disney+ on September 9, with ten brand new episodes, after the fourth series finished in October last year. The programme follows three neighbours, all with a keen interest in true crime podcasts, living in an upmarket apartment building in New York City. They begin investigating a series of suspicious murders in the so-called Arconia block of flats and make their own podcast about their discoveries. Three episodes of the upcoming fifth instalment will hit the streamer in the first instance, followed by one every week subsequently. And a first look image at the return of Steve, Selena and Martin's characters looking utterly shocked promises some exciting twists and turns are on the way. The Only Murders In The Building season five return date has finally been confirmed as Steve Martin, Selena Gomez and Martin Short reunite in a first look picture (pictured) The beloved crime show will be making its comeback to Disney+ on September 9, with ten brand new episodes, after the fourth series finished in October last year The programme follows three neighbours, all with a keen interest in true crime podcasts, living in an upmarket apartment building in New York City The plot of the new series will again follow their characters: the semi-retired, washed up actor Charles; young artist, apartment renovator and murder mystery enthusiast Mabel; and struggling Broadway director Oliver. After the building's much-loved doorman Lester (Teddy Coluca) mysteriously dies, the trio refuse to believe it could be an accident. They do what they do best and begin digging - gradually revealing a mysterious web of billionaires, mobsters and shady characters within the building itself. Michael Cyril Creighton will be back as their cat-lover neighbour and podcast assistant Howard, as will Meryl Streep as Oliver's wife Loretta. They will be joined by a legion of stellar guest stars, including Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Renee Zellweger, Christoph Waltz, Keegan Michael-Key and Dianne Wiest. Other huge stars set to make an appearance include Richard Kind, Nathan Lane, Bobby Cannavale, Logan Lerman, Tea Leoni, Beanie Feldstein and Jermaine Fowler. The series was co-created in 2021 by lead actor Steve and his writing partner John Hoffman - and has been a roaring success ever since. It comes after the fourth season saw the leads travel from their hometown of New York City to Hollywood to work on a movie about how their podcast was created. It comes after the fourth season saw the leads travel from their hometown of New York City to Hollywood to work on a movie about how their podcast was created Unlike previous seasons, episodes of series four aired on a weekly basis rather than all at once Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria and Zach Galifianakis played the detective trio in the movie within the most recent instalment. They were joined by some new faces such as Melissa McCarthy and Molly Shannon - while Kumail Nanjiani was also onboard. There was a murder to solve as well, of course, as every season involves a mystery the pals have to figure out. In that series, Sazz Pataki (Jane Lynch), who was Charles' stunt double, was killed. But the gang thought the murder was meant for Charles, not Sazz - and so the sleuths were determined to track down the killer. Series four of Only Murders in the Building premiered on August 27 last year. Unlike previous seasons, episodes aired on a weekly basis rather than all at once. 'New season. New case. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez return for Season 4 of #OMITB. August 27. Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria and Zach Galifianakis played the detective trio in the movie within the most recent instalment The three pals experience several surprises once they land in southern California There was a murder to solve as well, of course, as every season involves a mystery the pals have to figure out In that series, Sazz Pataki (Jane Lynch), who was Charles' stunt double, was killed. But the gang thought the murder was meant for Charles, not Sazz - and so the sleuths were determined to track down the killer 'Streaming on Hulu and with Hulu on Disney+ for Disney Bundle subscribers', it read on Hulu's Instagram page, the platform on which the show is aired in the US. In May last year, the first teaser was shared for the fourth series of Only Murders In The Building. It showed Selena, Steve and Martin stepping out of an elevator inside their apartment building, returning as their beloved trio of characters. Former Disney channel star Selena could be seen in a glittering, gold dress as she talked to her co-stars. 'So, what's next podcast wise?' she asked, with Martin replying with, 'What we need, is a, hot fresh, dead body. Preferably, right here or very near to here.' The scene then jumped to Jane's character's dead body, after her death at the very end of the third season. 'Somewhere lay a sniper's nest', Martin could be heard saying in a different scene. 'You know this is happening. We might as well just start', he told Steve. The clip then cut to Selena reading out a message she received on her phone. Only Murders in the Building series four premiered on August 27 The trio was seen in Beverly Hills in a teaser shared in May last year They were joined by some new faces such as Melissa McCarthy and Molly Shannon - while Kumail Nanjiani was also onboard Towards the end of the trailer, Selena, Steve and Martin sat in a meeting with Hollywood executives, negotiating payment with Molly's character (pictured) 'I just got an email that a Hollywood studio wants to make a movie about our podcast.' Martin, who was sitting on the floor, excited stood up and exclaimed, 'The pictures? Pack your bags b****es! We are going to the movies!' Text on the screen appeared over different shots of Los Angeles and teased fans: 'Get ready for the starriest season yet.' A montage of Selena, Steve and Martin attempting to solve the murder mystery appeared during the trailer. In some mysterious moments, Selena was seen at one point looking through a dimly lit kitchen with her phone and a pig running down a hall. Another scene showed Steve calling out, 'Hello Hollywood!' while the trio stood through the sun roof of a sleek limo while being driven down a street lined with scenic palm trees as they ate fast food. Towards the end of the trailer, Selena, Steve and Martin sat in a meeting with Hollywood executives, negotiating payment with Molly's character. Viewers were left in stitches as they spotted ITV News reporter Sara O'Kane swat a fly live on-air during Wednesday night's programme. Sara was reporting live from Northern Ireland when she was caught completely off guard by the fly. At the end of her report, cameras accidentally caught the moment a fly flew into the journalist's face. Viewers shared the hilarious on-air gaffe on X, formerly known as Twitter, to poke fun at the light-hearted blooper. Some comments read: 'Anyone else catch this at the end of the report? Tragic story, hilarious blooper', 'Im sure the camera man waited for that', 'Thought it was a pretty buzzing piece of reporting', 'Probably the highlight of the #itvnews this year'. Viewers were left in stitches as they spotted ITV News reporter Sara O'Kane swat a fly live on-air during Wednesday night's programme Despite viewers seeing the funny side of the lighthearted moment, Sara was reporting on a serious incident in the area. Two children and a woman died in an incident that police are treating as a triple murder and attempted suicide. Sara was reporting live from the incident where a man was also left with serious injuries and rushed to hospital following the tragedy in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge in County Fermanagh. Police were called to the scene as it unfolded - with a top cop describing what his officers encountered as 'harrowing'. Three ambulances and an air ambulance were called to the scene at about 8.20am today, where a woman and one of the children were pronounced dead. An individual was airlifted by air ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast while another was taken to the South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said on Wednesday afternoon that one of those taken to hospital - another child - had also since succumbed to their injuries. One of the children was a boy and the other a girl. very sad distressing news from Northern Ireland today and my thoughts are with all affected but just as reporter was finishing off her live report on the main ITV Evening news.....#itvnews #NorthernIreland #fermanagh pic.twitter.com/4a2q9v4ZB9 Andy_from_Sligo (@Andy_Robus) July 24, 2025 Viewers shared the hilarious on-air gaffe on X, formerly known as Twitter , to poke fun at the light-hearted blooper Superintendent Robert McGowan, district commander for Fermanagh and Omagh, confirmed that all four individuals had suffered gunshot wounds and were from the same family. Their ages have not been released. He confirmed that a murder probe was underway, with detectives working 'at pace' to establish the full circumstances of the tragedy. A triple-murder and attempted suicide is being pursued as a line of inquiry. Police earlier said there was no danger posed to the wider public in the aftermath of the incident, which has shocked the rural community just a few miles north of the UK-Ireland border. 'Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has, this afternoon, passed away in hospital,' Supt McGowan said. 'A fourth person who was taken to hospital remains in a condition described as serious. 'All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household. 'I am keen to, first and foremost, express my sympathy to family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock, and who will inevitably be struggling to come to terms with their unimaginable loss.' And Then There Were None (2015 series): Trailer, certificate and where to watch Filming for Married At First Sight 2026 is officially underway. Daily Mail Australia can reveal the cast for Season 13 has finally been locked in, despite behind-the-scenes setbacks, with production now in full swing across Sydney. On Monday, Rebecca Zacharia was spotted arriving to film her wedding at The Eveleigh, in Sydney's CBD. The Adelaide-based brunette beauty, known to her friends as Bec Zac, turned heads in a a figure-hugging off-the-shoulder white gown, delicately detailed with floral accents along the neckline. Clutching a vibrant bouquet of fresh blooms, she confidently made her way through the cobbled precinct as cameras rolled on her dramatic arrival, marking the official start of wedding week. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Filming for Married At First Sight 2026 is officially underway. Pictured bride Rebecca Zacharia Daily Mail Australia can reveal the cast for Season 13 has finally been locked in, despite behind-the-scenes setbacks, with production now in full swing across Sydney According to insiders, the new season almost didn't make it to the altar on time after multiple cast dropouts and a last-minute casting scramble left producers racing to fill key roles. 'Producers were scrambling behind-the-scenes right up until filming started,' one well-placed source told Daily Mail Australia. 'There were multiple cast dropouts and several roles had to be urgently filled at the last minute.' Despite the early chaos, production is now in full swing, with all eyes on whether this season will live up to its explosive predecessors. 'It was touch and go there for a few weeks,' one well-placed source revealed. 'They had some big personalities pull out just days before filming, and others were cut late in the process due to vetting. But they've managed to secure a strong final cast - and the cameras are now rolling.' Despite the bumpy pre-production period, filming is now in full swing. Backstories, bucks and hens nights have already been filmed, with weddings currently underway and honeymoons expected to follow in the coming days. On Monday, the Adelaide-based brunette beauty, known to her friends as Bec Zac, was spotted arriving to film her wedding at The Eveleigh Clutching a vibrant bouquet of fresh blooms, she confidently made her way through the cobbled precinct as cameras rolled on her dramatic arrival, marking the official start of wedding week While the show's signature drama is usually saved for the dinner parties and commitment ceremonies, this year's brides and grooms are wasting no time. One bride has already raised eyebrows after a fiery outburst before filming, accusing her bridesmaid of trying to upstage her on her wedding day. 'She was overheard yelling on her balcony in between takes - it was a whole moment,' one source dished. 'She's wild think Jamie [Marinos] just with years of experience.' Another insider teased that filming has already produced 'some of the strongest matches we've seen in years' along with a few early red flags. 'There are couples with instant chemistry, and others who are clearly mismatched from the start. The tension is building and we're only in the early stages.' Producers are said to be particularly proud of this year's mix of personalities which includes creatives, professionals, tradies, and even a few wildcard entries that are sure to get viewers talking. 'It's a really bold cast. There's a lot of diversity in age, culture, and life experience,' one source said. 'You've got a couple of big online personalities, a groom who's been in the headlines before, and some really grounded people just looking for love.' The sighting marks the beginning of wedding week for the new season which, according to insiders, almost didn't make it to the altar After a strict vetting process was introduced this year to avoid off-screen scandals, the casting team had to move quickly to replace last-minute dropouts. 'They're still walking a fine line they want drama and standout characters, but no reputational nightmares. It's a tightrope.' With weddings being filmed across multiple locations around Australia and honeymoons about to begin, the pace is picking up - and producers are confident they've landed a winning mix. Experts John Aiken, Mel Schilling, and Alessandra Rampolla have also returned to the experiment, with sources claiming they'll take a more hands-on approach than ever before. Channel Nine is expected to premiere the new season in late January 2026. Once famed for its laid-back, alternative vibe, Byron Bay was a haven in the '70s for hippies and surfers. But the dream didn't last. In the last two decades, the coastal NSW town has become a hotspot for Hollywood blow-ins, the filthy rich, barefoot influencers and general desperados who won't shut up about their 'off-the-grid' lifestyles from their eight-bedroom mansions. But every town has a social ladder - and we asked around the Northern Rivers to find out who's on top and who's languishing at the bottom. While you'd expect to find a certain Marvel superhero and his Spanish wife leading the pack, the Byron Bay old guard insists that being an A-lister in Tinseltown doesn't mean a thing on the far-north coast... From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Leading the Byron Bay A-list is property and media mogul Antony Catalano (pictured with wife Stefanie), who owns the iconic hotel Raes at Wategos TripADeal co-founder Richard Johnston and his wife Claire Alexander-Johnston are A-listers THE A-LIST The biggest name of Byron Bay isn't a movie star, but he may as well be. Property and media mogul Antony Catalano, the owner of iconic boutique hotel Raes at Wategos, is basically God in the beachside town. Raes has probably featured on a million Instagram grids. The restaurant, known for its $125 three-course special, is swarmed by socialites in the summer months, and beloved by cashed-up locals during the off-season. Antony bought a half-share of the venue in June 2013 from Vincent Rae for about $7million, then became full owner the following year. He and wife Stefanie are attempting to build a $55million mansion up the road from Raes, but the plans have been knocked back by the council. If their development plans are approved, the Catalanos will become owners of the most expensive home on the state's north coast. Joining Antony on the A-list is Richard Johnston, the co-founder of online travel agency TripADeal, and his wife Claire Alexander-Johnston. Sisters Elizabeth Abegg (left) and Isabella Pennefather (right), owners of popular fashion label Spell & The Gypsy Collective, also make the top of the list Festival director of the Bluesfest Byron Bay, Peter Noble (pictured), also holds a lofty position at the top of the ladder Tom Lane (centre), grandson of the Oroton fashion label founder Boyd Lane, and his wife Emma (left) are also notable members of Byron Bay's 'It' crowd. (Pictured right: Catriona Rowntree) In 2017, the couple spent $2.31million on a waterfront beach house in the town. Sisters Elizabeth Abegg and Isabella Pennefather, owners of popular fashion label Spell & The Gypsy Collective, also make the top of the list. The brand has become an Aussie staple, seen on the likes of Blake Lively and Sienna Miller. Tom Lane, grandson of the Oroton fashion label founder Boyd Lane, and his wife Emma are also notable members of Byron's 'It' crowd. In 2020, the couple sold their popular restaurant The Farm at Ewingsdale for about $16million. They also listed their 19ha retreat 'Copperstone', near Bangalow, with a $35million price guide last year. Peter Noble - the owner of Byron Bay Bluesfest, one of the few remaining music festivals in the town - also holds a lofty position on the social ladder. The event has been running since 1990, managing to stay afloat despite the decline of similar festivals Falls and Splendour in the Grass. Topping the B-list are Hollywood locals Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky The huge mansion the Hemsworths call home - a monolithic beast often compared to a multi-storey car park, regional airport or shopping centre - keeps them out of the A-list THE B-LIST Take a deep breath. Topping the B-list are Hollywood locals Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky. Why aren't they in the A-list? Well, we spoke to long-term residents for this article and were assured - frequently - that they are strictly B-tier. Their main grievance is the huge mansion the Hemsworths call home - a monolithic beast often compared to a multi-storey car park, regional airport or shopping centre. Some call it 'Westfield Byron'. Chris and Elsa snapped up the sprawling 4.2ha estate back in 2014 for $7million, before angering neighbours with a three-year-long rebuild that transformed the Balinese-style retreat into a $50million ultra-modern fortress. That's not very Byron of you, Chris! Chris and Elsa aren't the only actors in town - fellow Aussie Teresa Palmer (right, with her husband Mark Webber) also gave up the fast-paced lifestyle of LA for a relaxed life in Byron Joining them in the middle tier are Elyse Knowles and partner Josh Barker from The Block Chris and Elsa aren't the only actors in town - fellow Aussie Teresa Palmer also gave up the fast-paced lifestyle of LA for a relaxed life in Byron. Joining them in the middle tier are Elyse Knowles and partner Josh Barker, known for winning The Block in 2017. The reality stars moved from Melbourne to Byron in 2019. In May the following year, the couple bought a $2.3million beach house, which they subsequently renovated. Local heroes Parkway Drive also find themselves in the B-team. The metalcore band's members hail from Byron, but the biggest local mover-and-shaker looks to be drummer Ben Gordon. He sold his home for $10million in 2023 and also co-owns local hotspot The General Store - a cafe that became famous during Covid when one of its waitresses dated Zac Efron for several months. Lastly, there's The Block presenter Shelley Craft, who recently sold her Tuscan-inspired bungalow off-market for $6.5million, and Helen Brenko, the owner of boutique fashion store Island Luxe. Local heroes Parkway Drive are also in the B-team. The metalcore band's members hail from Byron, but the biggest local mover-and-shaker looks to be drummer Ben Gordon (far left) Lastly, there's The Block presenter Shelley Craft (pictured), who recently sold her Tuscan-inspired bungalow off-market for $6.5million THE C-LIST The aforementioned Zac Efron scrapes onto our list - even though he is no longer a Byron Bay resident - because he actually owns land in the town. He lived in Byron for about a year during the pandemic, dated a local - Vanessa Valladares - and snapped up a bushland getaway for a cool $2million in 2020. While he may be back in LA now, Zac does have plans to develop the property. A development application was submitted in 2024 to build a 'zero waste', six-bedroom home dubbed 'Futurecave' for $2.685million. The plans include a gym - naturally - as well as various eco-friendly features, including 'carbon sequestering' - a process that helps to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Zac Efron (pictured) scrapes onto our list - even though he is no longer a Byron Bay resident - because he actually owns land in the town Former MKR judge Pete Evans (pictured) makes the C-list. Despite his spectacular fall from grace, we are told he still has a few supporters left in Byron's woo-woo community Former My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans makes the C-list. He should be happy with his placement, given his spectacular fall from grace during Covid when he aligned himself with seemingly every conspiracy theory out there. In late 2020, he tried to establish an alternative health clinic in the Habitat precinct off Bayshore Drive but it ended up being a money pit. Still, he is said to have a few supporters left in Byron's woo-woo community. Ruby Tuesday Matthews was one of the first Instagram stars to make a home in Byron Bay, setting off a trend that, regrettably, continues to this day Concluding our ranking is fashion designer Jessica Johansen-Bell (pictured), who recently accused Kylie Jenner of 'ripping off' her fashion line A headline-making influencer rounds out the C-list. Ruby Tuesday Matthews was one of the first Instagram stars to make a home in Byron Bay, setting off a trend that, regrettably, continues to this day. But her numerous controversies have made locals wary. In October 2020, she delayed a Jetstar flight from Ballina to Sydney after a technical issue postponed departure and she left the airport to eat oysters at a nearby restaurant. After the issue was resolved sooner than expected, passengers were outraged when their trip was held up further by Ruby's absence. When she finally returned to the plane - after bragging about her seafood lunch on social media - she was heckled by other travellers. 'It's hard to recover from something like that,' adds one of our Byron sources. Concluding our ranking is fashion designer Jessica Johansen-Bell, who recently accused Kylie Jenner of 'ripping off' her fashion line. Fans have blasted Molly-Mae Hague for 'always moaning' as she told fans she's 'not done one fun thing all summer' despite jetting off to multiple destinations. The former Love Island star and business owner, 26, made the admission in her latest YouTube vlog which landed this week. Molly said in the life update: 'I said to a friend the other day, that I'm going to make it to the end of summer having not done one fun thing.' She then spoke to her sister and said: 'Zoe, I haven't socialised once. I'm going to get to the end of this summer having not done one social fun thing. 'I haven't a life. That's not good is it. Summer will end and I've not done one fun social thing.' It left some fans open-mouthed as they called out how she failed to acknowledge the three holidays she's already been on this year. Fans have blasted Molly-Mae Hague, 26, for 'always moaning' as she told fans she's 'not done one fun thing all summer' despite jetting off to multiple destinations Molly said in her latest YouTube video: 'I said to a friend the other day, that I'm going to make it to the end of summer having not done one fun thing' Some comments read: 'She's a millionaire, she can literally wake up tomorrow and do whatever the hell she wants', 'Wimbledon, lunches, Spain, Dubai, France, Centre Parcs... let's normalise that', 'This was so jarring because she can casually spend 6k in Dior on an outfit to log to Wimbledon then complains she has no time for herself', 'Why does she always want us to feel sorry for her?' The mum-of-one - in this year alone - has been on no expense-spared trips to Dubai, Budapest and even Disneyland in 2025. Back in March she and Tommy Fury took baby Bambi on a family holiday to the United Arab Emirates, marking a reunion holiday for the clan. Just a month later Tommy had treated Molly to a European trip as the pair enjoyed downtime in Budapest. During their break, they stayed at The Pullman, a five-star hotel where prices start from at least 500 per night. It left some fans open-mouthed as they called out how she failed to acknowledge the three holidays she's already been on this year The mum-of-one - in this year alone - has been on no expense-spared trips to Dubai, Budapest and even Disneyland in 2025 One fan reminded Molly-Mae of the fun activities she's documented in recent weeks, writing: 'Wimbledon, lunches, Spain, Dubai, France, Centre Parcs... let's normalise that' In May the dotting parents took Bambi to Disneyland Paris where they enjoyed a lavish stay at the park's resort Meanwhile, in May the dotting parents took Bambi to Disneyland Paris where they enjoyed a lavish stay at the park's resort. It comes after her candid complaints about a recent 86,000 motorhome holiday her family went on - after Tommy said their daughter Bambi shouldn't be spoilt with five star trips. The family were travelling on a swanky Elddis Avalon 255 motorhome. Yet Molly-Mae revealed the trip had been struck with delays, leaving Bambi 'overtired and overstimulated'. She explained: 'Tommy has bought a motorhome and we spent our first weekend in the motorhome this weekend. Obviously, being us, we went in feet first and decided to go to the Isle of Man. 'Tommy's family were spending the weekend in the Isle of Man. I was feeling spontaneous so we literally booked the ferry to the Isle of Man an hour before we needed to leave. 'We'd never used the motorhome before, we needed to pack it up, sort Bambi, I just had this wave of 'you only live once, have a bit of fun. 'Bambi doesn't need to be so perfectly routine every day, she's not a newborn anymore. It comes after her candid complaints about a recent 86,000 motorhome holiday her family went on - after Tommy said their daughter Bambi shouldn't be spoilt with five star trips She said of getting there: 'So anyway, booked the ferry, packed the motorhome up and nearly didn't make the ferry but that's another story and then there was a two hour delay' 'I've got so stuck in my ways with the fact that her routine is her routine and I don't really steer away from it. 'I'm not gonna feel bad for that because that is what works for me and that is what works for Bambi and Tommy, so that's fine.' She then added of when things started to go wrong: 'So anyway, booked the ferry, packed the motorhome up and nearly didn't make the ferry but that's another story and then there was a two hour delay. 'This ferry, which was already gonna get us in at 11:30pm, which was already severely triggering me because Bambi goes to bed at 7pm, was not fine. It was giving me a prime example as to why the routine works for us. 'It was one of those moments where strangers come up to you and are like 'can I help? Is there anything I can do?' 'She was screaming that much for four hours straight. The boat basically had a malfunction and it wouldn't move for like two hours so we had a huge delay. 'She was so, so, so overtired and overstimulated - Bambi is so routine, she is the opposite of flexible.' And when they arrived things continued to go downhill, as she said: 'We managed to get to the Isle of Man at 1:30am in the morning. She went on in the vlog: 'Bear in mind this motorhome of Tommy's is his pride and joy, he's obsessed with itI kid you not, the next day he was like 'I'm selling it, the minute we get home I'm putting it up for sale, I hate this motorhome' 'We didn't know where we were, what we were doing, we were going to a different campsite to Tommy's family. It was just a lot. 'We had to make our bed out of this sofa, I was like 'I'm really out of my depth, I'm struggling. The next day, Bambi was so tired, she was just screaming, literally screaming, so, so unhappy. 'Me and Tommy were looking at each other like 'what were we thinking?. I was having a breakdown.' She went on in the vlog: 'Bear in mind this motorhome of Tommy's is his pride and joy, he's obsessed with itI kid you not, the next day he was like 'I'm selling it, the minute we get home I'm putting it up for sale, I hate this motorhome.' 'It wasn't even the motorhome's fault. For our first time, stupid move.' They even considered getting an early ferry home but once they met up with Tyson Fury and his wife Paris, things improved. She said: 'We were actually going to get on a ferry that day to come home because we were so out of our depth, we couldn't do it. 'But then, when we met up with them, we were like 'no, we're gonna stick it out, we can do this.' Reality TV star Matt Roloff and his fiancee have decided to call it quits. The Little People, Big World star, 63, announced the sad news in a post on social media Tuesday, revealing he and his former partner Caryn Chandler, 'have decided to part ways & end our engagement'. The couple got engaged in April 2023 after six years together and had planned to tie the knot in 2024, when he first gave her the ring, but a wedding never materialized. 'Life's a continued journey and this is the right step for us at this time,' Roloff wrote in the announcement shared on social media. He said the two, who went public in 2017, just nine months after his divorce from wife Amy, 62. He said they 'remain amicable,' and 'will always appreciate the many wonderful memories we have shared.' Little People, Big World star Matt Roloff, 63, and fiancee Caryn Chase have 'have decided to part ways & end our engagement' Talking to his fans he told them, 'Your support means the World to me and I'm committed to moving forward with positivity and trust in the path ahead. Much love to all.' Chandler is not active on social media and has not made a public statement about the breakup. Roloff and his family burst on to the scene in 2006 in Little People, Big World which looked at the challenges of being a little person in world in which they are smaller than average. The show ended after 25 seasons in 2023. Amy married real estate agent Chris Marek in 2021. She and Matt share four children; twins Zach and Jeremy, 35, Molly, 31 and Jacob, 28. The family's 16 acre farm in Oregon was put up for sale in May 2022 and has not sold yet. In a post trying to grab some attention to the property Matt wrote 'Ever dreamed of building a retreat, homestead, or legacy property?' The couple had gotten engaged in April 2023 after six years together and had planned to tie the knot in 2024, but the wedding never materialized Roloff and his family burst on to the scene in 2006 in Little People, Big World. He and wife Amy divorced in 2016 and the show ended in 2023 Amy married real estate agent Chris Marek in 2021 He then added, 'This TV-famous Oregon farmhouse sits on 16.6 acres with a pool, barn, trails, castle, and morejust 25 minutes from Portland.' Bullet points include: Once home to Little People, Big World, Multiple outbuildings + development potential, Private, peaceful, and full of possibility, and Listed under $2.9M.' His son Jeremy had expressed interest in buying the family homestead, but apparently father and son could to agree on the terms of the deal. Roloff has continued to host the annual Pumpkin Festival on the property. He also offers private tours. Adam Lambert has reportedly amicably ended his relationship with boyfriend Oliver Gliese after four years of dating. At 43, the Grammy nominee is 14 years older than the Twitch streamer, and they 'broke up within the last month' and it's 'drama free' - according to TMZ. However, the ex-couple haven't posted an Instagram snap featuring one another since June 2024. Earlier this month, Adam celebrated LGBTQIA+ Pride month in New York City with his 'ride or dies' - a term of endearment he used to reserve for Oliver. There are reports that Lambert and Gliese began dating as far back as 2020, but they didn't go Instagram official until May 2021 and in March 2024 he shared a snap captioned: 'Love is the answer.' In 2023, the Cabaret thespian publicly defended the former Global Fashion Agenda partnerships manager after he received a barrage of homophobic comments. Adam Lambert (R, pictured in 2023) has reportedly amicably ended his relationship with boyfriend Oliver Gliese (L) after four years of dating 'He is beautiful and brave and daring. One of the many things I love about him!' Adam - who boasts 11.5M social media followers - wrote via Instastory. 'We are very happy together, and if the haters don't like it, we don't really give a f***. Grow up and challenge yourself to explore tolerance.' Oliver - whose drag persona is Valkyrie - originally hails from Denmark where he graduated from Copenhagen Business School. DailyMail.com has reached out to his rep for comment. News of Lambert's newly-single status came the day after TMZ reported he sold his four-bedroom Hollywood Hills estate for $6.2M - $300K less than what he paid for the three-story home in 2018. The Indiana-born, Cali-raised belter was previously romantically linked to retired figure skater Johnny Weir in 2010, but neither confirmed the rumor. Adam made history in 2012 as the first openly gay male artist to top the US Billboard 200 chart, but he was outed (with a leaked Burning Man photo) three years earlier while competing on the eighth season of American Idol. Kris Allen went on to win the formerly Fox singing competition over Lambert amid controversy over his forcible outing and the voting process, but producers 'stood by the outcome' of the results. The RuPaul's Drag Race guest judge will next use his three-octave pipes to portray Judas Iscariot opposite Cynthia Erivo's Jesus in director Sergio Trujillo's production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl in LA from August 1-3. On July 14, Josh Gad - who plays Herod - shared an Instagram snap of himself rehearsing with Adam and Phillipa Soo, who plays Mary Magdalene in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's 1971 musical. At 43, the Grammy nominee (R) is 14 years older than the Twitch streamer (L), and they 'broke up within the last month' and it's 'drama free' (pictured in 2024) However, the ex-couple haven't posted an Instagram snap featuring one another since June 2024 (pictured in 2024) Earlier this month, Adam celebrated LGBTQIA+ Pride month in New York City with his 'ride or dies' - a term of endearment he used to reserve for Oliver (pictured July 2) There are reports that Lambert and Gliese began dating as far back as 2020, but they didn't go Instagram official until May 2021 and in March 2024 he shared a snap captioned: 'Love is the answer' In 2023, the Cabaret thespian publicly defended the former Global Fashion Agenda partnerships manager after he received a barrage of homophobic comments Oliver - whose drag persona is Valkyrie - originally hails from Denmark where he graduated from Copenhagen Business School (pictured July 3) News of Lambert's newly-single status came the day after TMZ reported he sold his four-bedroom Hollywood Hills estate for $6.2M - $300K less than what he paid for the three-story home in 2018 (pictured July 12) The Indiana-born, Cali-raised belter will next portray Judas Iscariot opposite Cynthia Erivo's (M, pictured June 8) Jesus in director Sergio Trujillo's production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl in LA from August 1-3 On July 14, Josh Gad (M) - who plays Herod - shared an Instagram snap of himself rehearsing with Adam and Phillipa Soo (R), who plays Mary Magdalene in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's 1971 musical Adam told Variety's Stagecraft podcast on Tuesday: '[Judas] is questioning everything. He's critical. He's analytical. He's the one person that'll argue with Jesus. And I think part of it is that Judas reflects my shadow self. If I'm being honest with myself or anybody else about what my faults are, I can see those same faults in Judas' 'I was excited to do something new which was kind of old for me, but new again, you know?' Lambert told Variety's Stagecraft podcast on Tuesday. '[Judas] is questioning everything. He's critical. He's analytical. He's the one person that'll argue with Jesus. And I think part of it is that Judas reflects my shadow self. If I'm being honest with myself or anybody else about what my faults are, I can see those same faults in Judas. 'Me on a bad day, I have a tendency to disagree or to rebel or to not go with the status quo. I'm very much like, "Well, everyone else is doing that. I don't like it!"' The Queen + Adam Lambert frontman also teased that he's penning an original musical: 'It's definitely got a rock 'n' roll spirit. It takes place in the 1970s in New York. It's glam. And that's kind of all I can say.' Adam - who gets 2.5M monthly listeners on Spotify - released an EP called Afters in 2024, and he's reportedly sold over 3M records worldwide. Amanda Keller has revealed a 'surreal' moment she shared with Ozzy Osbourne as the world mourns the iconic rocker's death. The legendary Black Sabbath frontman died 'surrounded by love' at the age of 76, a statement from his family said. Speaking about Ozzy on her Jonesy and Amanda radio show on Wednesday, the broadcast veteran recounted a very surprising interaction with the iconic 'Prince Of Darkness'. 'I once met Ozzy Osbourne,' she told co-host Brendan Jones. 'I was working at Triple M and we were having a promotion.' 'This was before the reality show, so Sharon looked quite different. This is before, as she says, she had a lot of work done. This is old Sharon.' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Amanda Keller (pictured) has revealed a 'surreal' moment she shared with Ozzy Osbourne as the world mourns the iconic rocker's death Amanda went on to explain that Sharon was attempting to assist Ozzy with an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction. 'Ozzy looked quite befuddled and his hair was caught in his bracelets and she was trying to untangle him,' she said. While witnessing the scene unfold, Amanda revealed her shock when Ozzy admitted to being a fan of her work. 'He looked up at me and he said: "I know you",' Amanda revealed. 'He used to watch Beyond 2000 on satellite television. His wife said: "Yeah, we always used to watch that show. 'What a surreal moment.' Beyond 2000 was a long-running Australian science and technology series and Amanda joined the cast as a presenter in 1985. Amanda's admission comes after Ozzy's family revealed the news of his passing on Wednesday, just weeks after the Black Sabbath frontman performed from a throne on stage at Villa Park in Birmingham. The legendary Black Sabbath frontman died 'surrounded by love' at the age of 76 Speaking about Ozzy on her Jonesy and Amanda radio show on Wednesday, the broadcast veteran recounted a very surprising interaction with the iconic 'Prince Of Darkness' 'I once met Ozzy Osbourne,' she told co-host Brendan Jones. 'I was working at Triple M and we were having a promotion. This was before the reality show, so Sharon looked quite different. This is before, as she says, she had a lot of work done. This is old Sharon.' In a statement, his family said: 'It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning.' 'He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.' The rocker was able to bid an emotional farewell to his fans on stage this month as he reunited with his original Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward for the first time since 2005. 'You've no idea how I feel - thank you from the bottom of my heart,' Osbourne told the crowd in his final speech. The music legend vowed, however, that it would be his final ever performance due to his health, having opened up about his battle with Parkinson's in 2020. Jerry O'Connell made a shocking revelation about how his wife once went to Jeffrey Epstein's island during his comedy show. During his comedy set, the 51yearold actor recalled how his nowwife, model Rebecca Romijn, once visited the private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands for modeling work. He explained that her visit to the infamous island owned by the disgraced financier was not for anything untoward. He did a standup comedy set with Seth Herzog at Cynthia Rowley's store in Montauk this past weekend and shared the Femme Fatale star's story about her trip to the private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, per Page Six. He said that Romijn did not meet Epstein and the former model was just there for a photoshoot which occurred sometime between Epstein purchasing the private island in 1998 and his death in 2019. The incident seemingly occurred prior to the Hollywood couple, who recently revealed why still they have separate bank accounts after 18 years of marriage, getting together and having been married for nearly two decades. Jerry O'Connell made a shocking revelation about how his wife once went to Jeffrey Epstein 's island during his comedy show; pictured September 2021 in Los Angeles 'Actually, my wife told me she went to Epstein Island. There was a modeling shoot there. My wife was modeling at the time.' O'Connell said: 'I'm so sorry, everyone. I know this is a comedy show, but that's the end of that story. There was no massaging of feet.' While Herzog was doing a comedic bit on the disgraced billionaire and his island, he also made jokes about the late cosmologist Stephen Hawking even going there even though he was never accused of any sexual misconduct. Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender who died in prison waiting for his sex trafficking trial. He owned a small private island called Little Saint James in the United States Virgin Islands, southeast of Saint Thomas. The private island is the site of a number of alleged crimes, notorious and colloquially known as Pedophile Island due to allegations of sex trafficking and abuse. Accusers claimed that the billionaire's private island was the center of an international sex trafficking ring and the base for his criminal enterprise. A number of prominent names have been mentioned in court documents related to Epstein with the files being unsealed and released in stages since his death in 2019. During his comedy set, the 51yearold actor recalled how his nowwife, model Rebecca Romijn, once visited the private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands for work Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender who died in prison waiting for his sex trafficking trial He explained that her visit to the infamous island owned by the disgraced financier was not for anything untoward; pictured February 2000 in New York City He said that Romijn did not meet Epstein and the former model was just there for a photoshoot which occurred sometime between Epstein purchasing the private island in 1998 and his death in 2019; pictured July 2000 in New York City Many high-profile figures named in newly released US court documents detailing the connections of the sex offender and reveal the list of people who were known to have visited the infamous island, whether or not they were involved in the crimes or not. O'Connell name-dropping his wife having been to the island for work unrelated to Epstein comes shortly after they revealed their secret to the success of their decades-long marriage. The power couple appeared on Sirius XM's Andy Cohen Live on Thursday as Romijn shockingly explained: 'We keep our money completely separate.' She did note that the longtime couple do share a 'community pot' for family expenses. Romijn said: 'Thats like one of the first conversations you have when you decide to enter into a legal agreement together.' The two who share 16yearold twin daughters Dolly Rebecca Rose and Charlie Tamara Tulip explained that they both contribute to this pot 'quarterly.' Bec Judd, 42, made a surprising admission about motherhood on her Vain-ish podcast this week. The AFL WAG shares four children Oscar, 13, Billie, 10, and twins Darcy and Tom, eight, with her husband Chris Judd. Speaking with her bestie and co-host Jessie Roberts, Bec's revelation is likely to leave her youngest, Darcy and Tom, scratching their heads. 'I just think four kids is a lot. Anything over two, I think is too many,' she said. Jess, who has three children, agreed, adding: 'You know what? It's a lot of chaos. And just to spread yourself between the four of them. I don't know how you do it. I struggle with three.' From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Bec Judd, 42, made quite a surprising admission about motherhood on her Vain-ish podcast this week Bec then gave an insight into her hectic lifestyle, admitting that it is a big challenge wrangling four children. 'It's like, we will be in the car and I'll be screaming at one of them, I'm threatening one to walk home. 'One's always injured or has some medical issue, or the school's calling about something,' she said. 'There's always something popping off.' It seems that the in-car yelling has rubbed off on her kids, with Bec admitting her children agree with her assessment. 'The kids in the car, when I'm screaming at them, just say: "Mum, when we grow up, we don't think we're going to have four kids it's too many",' she laughed. 'I would not trade any of my kids in, but man, I would not recommend four!' Bec has never been one to shy away from sharing the minutiae of motherhood with her 725,000 Instagram followers - both good and bad. Bec shares four children Oscar, 13, Billie, 10, and twins Darcy and Tom, 8, with husband Chris Judd Back in January, Bec took to her Instagram Stories to call out her two youngest children for causing havoc in the family's $7.3 million mansion in the Melbourne seaside suburb of Brighton. 'The last day of this bullsh*t,' Bec captioned a photo of Tom and Darcy's shared bedroom in a state of squalor. The mum-of-four rang in her 42nd birthday with a lavish party just days prior, followed by a long lunch at Montalto Winery. After a weekend of festivities, Bec returned to mum duties and was not at all pleased with the state of her boys' bedroom. Her photo showed the beds unmade, one with sheets ripped off, all the drawers in their double dressers left hanging open in a state of disarray, and shoes, toys and backpacks strewn across the floor. Two single mattresses had been added to the floor, presumably for a sleepover. 'Back to school you go boys,' she wrote in her caption. 'I just think four kids is a lot. Anything over two, I think is too many,' she said Back in January, Bec took to her Instagram Stories to call out her two youngest children for causing havoc in the family's $7.3 million mansion in the Melbourne seaside suburb of Brighton 'Considering boarding school for the twins at this point. 'I've also Googled military school and there's one in Queensland, but they're too young at this point.' She ended her caption with a disgusted emoji, followed by a series of laugh-crying emojis. It came just a week after Bec said she was 'sick' of her twins still behaving like toddlers. 'I popped my head in to see what we're dealing with today,' Bec began in a recent video, which shows dirty and clean clothes, books, and toys strewn all over the twins' bedroom. All of the drawers in a large clothing chest are pulled out, with clothes half pulled out of them and also thrown across the floor. 'How did we create these humans?' she asked her husband in the video's caption, tagging him. Bec described the messy state of the boys' bedroom as 'standard'. 'I'm packing up some s*** and found this,' Bec explained, as she zoomed in on a pile of glittery goop, which contained her sewing scissors and a stapler. 'What the f**k boys,' she vented about the slime. 'I say to them every day, "You are eight and a half, you are not toddlers anymore".' Ozzy Osbourne was known for his wild antics both on and off stage and provided fans with some more than memorable moments over the years. The Black Sabbath frontman's drugfuelled antics never failed to shock at the height of his fame, and the Prince of Darkness certainly lived up to his name. His most infamous moment was arguably when he bit the head off a bat that had been thrown on stage during a solo performance in 1982. But that wasn't the only time he made headlines for his crazed antics and the metal legend never shied away from openly chatting about his most memorable moments. Despite his wild antics and controversies giving him quite the unruly reputation, Ozzy remained a leading pioneer in heavy metal music and earned his place as a true national treasure. Upon the sad news of his death aged 76, his loyal fans have been fondly looking back on some of his unforgettable and wildest moments during his decadeslong career. Ozzy Osbourne (pictured in 2022) was known for his wild antics both on and off stage and provided fans with some very memorable moments over the years Biting the head off a bat Arguably one of the most famous and crazed celebrity moments ever was when Ozzy bit the head off a bat live on stage. The metal star became synonymous with the flying animal after the unexpected moment at the Des Moines Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Iowa in January 1982. A concertgoer bizarrely hurled the bat on stage with Ozzy then picking it up and ripping into it with his teeth. His mouth was seen filling with blood as the audience watched on in horror, and he never lived down the shocking incident. He has been repeatedly asked about the moment over the years, but long insisted that he thought the bat was a rubber toy rather than a live animal. Ozzy complained that he had to rush to hospital after the show for a rabies shot and claimed the bat was alive. However, this was disputed by audience member Mark Neal who claimed to have thrown the animal and insisted it was dead. 'For anyone out there who thinks it's ''cool'' and if you want to be a complete d**k, try it,' Ozzy previously said. Now one of the wildest moments in rock n' roll history, it became a symbol of Ozzy's career and he fully embraced this, even selling bat toys with a removable head. His most infamous moment was arguably when he bit the head off a bat that had been thrown on stage during a solo performance in 1982 ... and biting the head off a DOVE His stomachchurning antics with animals didn't stop there as he also came under fire for biting a dove's head off in 1981. Ozzy famously showed up with some live doves while meeting a group of music executives to celebrate a new CBS Records deal. He had intended to throw them into the air so the group could watch them fly away in a symbolic gesture of peace, but his antics didn't go to plan. After getting 'p**sed off' with one executive, he ended up biting the head off one of the doves and allegedly spat it on the table. 'Then I did it again with the next dove,' he recalled in his 2011 autobiography I Am Ozzy. 'That's when they threw me out. They said I'd never work for CBS again.' Ozzy later told a slightly different story, claiming the doves had died before his planned release, so he 'bit its head off' rather than 'waste it'. 'You should have seen their faces. They all went white. They were speechless,' he told Sounds Magazine. Sharon later revealed a major company boss told him they would 'absolutely destroy' Ozzy if he ever did such a thing again. His stomachchurning antics with animals didn't stop there as he also came under fire for biting a dove's head off in 1981 (he is pictured in April 2011) 'Snorting' ants Another outlandish moment was when Ozzy snorted a trail of ants while on tour with Motley Crue back in 1984. It was wildly rumoured that Ozzy had snorted a trail of live ants that were attracted to a melted ice lolly that had melted on the floor during a wild hotel stay during the tour. Though fans doubted whether the incident actually occurred, Motley Crue's drummer Tommy Lee insisted it happened and Ozzy himself has also set the record straight. He claimed everyone had been trying to 'outrock star and outgross' one another when the moment occurred with Ozzy proving himself to be the wildest of them all. 'I know people ask that all the time. They're, like, ''Dude, really?'' I'm, like, absof**kinglutely. You can't make that s**t up,' he said last year on This Past Weekend With Theo Von. Ozzy's wife Sharon cast doubt on whether she thought the story was true, but Ozzy set the record straight on his family podcast back in 2023. Sharon told their son Jack that she didn't think it was true, however Ozzy interrupted and vowed that he had indeed snorted the ants while drunk on tour. 'I did, I was there, I did it,' Ozzy said on The Osbournes podcast. 'It's my nostril [...] I was drunk, and I did it.' Motley Crue's drummer Tommy Lee (pictured in 2023) claimed Ozzy snorted a trail of ants while on tour with Motley Crue back in 1984 - which the rocker has since confirmed to be true Talking to a horse while on acid Though Ozzy was sober from 2013, he was known for his drugfuelled antics at the height of his fame and openly detailed his antics while experimenting with drugs. He famously gave up taking psychedelic drug LSD, also known as acid, in the 1970s after having an hourlong conversation with a horse while on a trip. He recalled how he frequently took LSD while making music in Los Angeles, but stopped after having a bizarre conversation with a horse after taking 10 tabs of acid. 'At that time in America, people were very fond of lacing your drinks with acid,' he told Classic Rock. 'I didn't care. I used to swallow handfuls of tabs at a time. The end of it came when we got back to England. 'I took 10 tabs of acid then went for a walk in a field. I ended up standing there talking to this horse for about an hour. In the end the horse turned round and told me to f**k off. That was it for me.' Ozzy struggled with drug and alcohol addiction over the years and said he felt he could not 'do a thing creatively sober' at the height of his fame in the 1970s. However, he eventually went sober in 2013, but briefly returned to smoking marijuana last year because of his health woes, including his struggles with Parkinson's. Ozzy (pictured in 1997) famously gave up taking psychedelic drug LSD, also known as acid, in the 1970s after having an hourlong conversation with a horse while on a trip Throwing raw meat at his fans Anything could happen at a Black Sabbath show, and Ozzy took that to a whole new level after the band kicked him out in 1979 due to his substance abuse issues. During his Diary of a Madman solo tour in 1981, Ozzy developed a ritual where he would throw raw meat at concertgoers. In response, they would throw bizarre items that they had managed to sneak into the venues right back at him which led to the infamous bat moment. Of his decision to start the raw meat ritual, Ozzy shared: 'I always liked old movies that used to have these custardpie fights. 'It gave me this idea to throw, instead of pie, bits of meat and animal parts into the audience. I thought it was hilarious. '[They'd throw back] sheep testicles, live snakes, dead rats, all kinds of things. Someone once threw a live frog onstage. It was the biggest frog I'd ever seen, and it landed on its back.' However, Ozzy - who reunited with Black Sabbath in 1997 - quickly grew tired of the gag after fans expected him to keep upping the ante. 'It got to the point where people expected me to do crazier and crazier things,' he admitted. Anything could happen at a Black Sabbath show, and Ozzy took that to a whole new level in the 1980s when he threw raw meat at fans (he is pictured on stage in 1978) Urinating on a US war memorial Ozzy famously caused offence when he urinated on a war memorial during a visit to Texas in 1982. He was banned from San Antonio for a decade after he urinated on The Alamo Cenotaph, also known as The Spirit of Sacrifice. The metal star was arrested for his actions but was released just hours later before taking to the stage to a soldout crowd at HemisFair Arena that night. In 1992, Ozzy made a public apology and gifted $10,000 to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, before finally returning to Alamo City to perform once again. Following Ozzy's death, the official Alamo account said it was 'deeply' saddened to hear of his passing and acknowledged his 'humility' in making up for his mistake. 'We at the Alamo are saddened to hear of the passing of legendary musician Ozzy Osbourne,' they wrote. 'His relationship with the Alamo was marked initially by a deeply disrespectful incident in 1982. This act profoundly and rightfully upset many who hold this site sacred. Ozzy famously caused offence when he urinated on The Alamo war memorial during a visit to Texas in 1982, however he later apologised and revisited the landmark in 2016 (pictured) 'However, redemption and reconciliation eventually became part of his history as well. 'In 1992, Ozzy personally apologized to thenMayor Nelson Wolff and expressed genuine remorse for his actions. 'Decades later, in 2015, he revisited the Alamo grounds to learn and appreciate the site's profound history, openly demonstrating humility and understanding. 'At the Alamo, we honor history in all its complexities. Today, we acknowledge Ozzy Osbourne's journey from regret to reconciliation at the historic site, and we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and fans around the world. May he rest in peace.' Kellie Finlayson has shared a useful hack for people facing drastic health issues. The AFL WAG, 29, said cancer sufferers should get insurance for 'everything' since no provider will sign a client with an existing health issue. Kellie, who has won admiration from followers for her upbeat outlook while facing a terminal diagnosis for bowel cancer, included a photo of herself in the post smiling hopefully. The mother-of-one made her comments during an Instagram question and answer in which a follower asked about health coverage. 'Travelling with stage 4 cancer and not being able to get insurance. How to work through?' the follower asked. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMails new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Kellie Finlayson (pictured) has shared a useful hack for people facing drastic health issues. The AFL WAG, 29, said cancer sufferers should get insurance for 'everything' since no provider will sign a client with an existing health issue 'Get insurance for everything else, no one will ever cover for an existing illness/injury, cancer is just one of them!' Kellie replied. Typically, the social media favourite shared a positive spin, adding, 'You can either live with cancer at home or on holiday,' she said. It comes after Kellie recently revealed the emotional challenges of dealing with her diagnosis in a candid new interview. Kellie, who is married to Port Adelaide star Jeremy Finlayson, is battling stage four bowel and lung cancer and has undergone thoracic surgery in recent months. She was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2021 and revealed in 2022 that the illness had spread to her lungs. Appearing on the Jess Rowe Big Talk Show podcast's Safe Space series earlier this month, Kellie, who was promoting her new memoir There Must Be More, said that she was 'thriving' in the wake of her diagnosis. When Jess asked Kellie what she meant by 'thriving', she said it was all about changing her frame of mind. 'It completely comes from mindset,' she said. Kellie, who has won admiration from followers for her upbeat outlook while facing a terminal diagnosis for bowel cancer, included a photo of herself in the post smiling hopefully Kellie, who is married to Port Adelaide star Jeremy Finlayson (left), is battling stage four bowel and lung cancer and has undergone thoracic surgery in recent months 'I feel like I still live each day the same as I used to, if not with more life, if that makes sense,' she said. 'I turned a really s***ty situation into a pretty incredible one and a really powerful one with a lot of purpose.' Kellie added that one of the challenges of battling cancer could be how the diagnosis robs the sufferer of agency. 'We don't get many choices when we're diagnosed. We get: Start this treatment or die, essentially. They're your options - get really, really sick from this treatment, or don't be here anymore,' she said. Kellie added that one choice still in front of her was how she chose to fight the disease emotionally. 'The only choice I guess I did have was how I responded to that and how I almost copped it on the chin like an insult,' she said. '[I] got on with life and did the things I could do to make each day okay, initially, and now great.' Jess then asked Kellie if she had ever experienced "why me?" moments, with the WAG replying that it all comes down to mindset. She was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2021 and revealed in 2022 that the illness had spread to her lungs In March, Kellie revealed she had undergone a VATS procedure to remove a piece of tissue from her lungs. VATS stands for Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery, which is a form of keyhole surgery. She revealed that doctors had removed metastatic tissue from her lungs. Metastatic tissue occurs when cancer cells spread from a primary tumour to other areas in the body to form new tumours. Kellie and Jeremy tied the knot in March 2023, in an intimate ceremony at South Australia's Tennyson Beach. They share daughter Sophia, three, who was born in 2021, just months before Kellie was first diagnosed. Ozzy Osbourne famously sparked a major backlash when he urinated on a highly respected Texas war memorial at the height of his fame. The Black Sabbath star caused offence during a visit to San Antonio in 1982 when he urinated on The Alamo Cenotaph, also known as The Spirit of Sacrifice. The memorial, which was erected in 1940, commemorates those who lost their lives in the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. Though Ozzy didn't relieve himself on the actual Alamo building - the site of the battle, he urinated on the 60-foot cenotaph across the road, leaving locals raging. He was arrested for public urination and intoxication, leading to him being banned from San Antonio for 10 years, before he made a public apology. Following his death aged 76, The Alamo took to social media to pay tribute to Ozzy in an unlikely statement as they reflected on the incident which sparked such outrage. Ozzy Osbourne famously sparked a major backlash when he urinated on a highly respected Texas war memorial at the height of his fame In a post shared to the memorial's official Instagram, The Alamo acknowledged Ozzy's 'humility' in making up for his 'deeply disrespectful' mistake as they proved all was forgiven. 'We at the Alamo are saddened to hear of the passing of legendary musician Ozzy Osbourne,' they wrote. 'His relationship with the Alamo was marked initially by a deeply disrespectful incident in 1982. This act profoundly and rightfully upset many who hold this site sacred. 'However, redemption and reconciliation eventually became part of his history as well. 'In 1992, Ozzy personally apologized to thenMayor Nelson Wolff and expressed genuine remorse for his actions. 'Decades later, in 2015, he revisited the Alamo grounds to learn and appreciate the site's profound history, openly demonstrating humility and understanding. 'At the Alamo, we honor history in all its complexities. Today, we acknowledge Ozzy Osbourne's journey from regret to reconciliation at the historic site, and we extend our condolences to his family, friends, and fans around the world. 'May he rest in peace.' The Black Sabbath star caused offence during a visit to San Antonio in 1982 when he urinated on The Alamo Cenotaph (pictured), also known as The Spirit of Sacrifice Following his death aged 76, The Alamo took to social media to pay tribute to Ozzy in an unlikely statement as they reflected on the incident which sparked such outrage Ozzy was banned from performing in San Antonio for more than 10 years after urinating on The Alamo in a scandal that came at the height of his fame. The rocker was arrested for his actions but was released just hours later on a $40 bond before taking to the stage to a soldout crowd at HemisFair Arena that night. In 1992, Ozzy finally made a public apology for urinating on the highly-respected memorial as he made amends for his actions. He also gifted $10,000 to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, which maintain the Alamo grounds, before finally returning to San Antonio to perform once again. Years later in 2015, Ozzy was allowed to return to the Alamo memorial itself to film his joint travel show with his son Jack, titled Ozzy & Jack's World Detour. During the History channel show, Ozzy shared his concerns about going back there, even more than 30 years after the scandal, because of the offence he caused. When Jack asked him what could happen, Ozzy said: 'Get shot, killed, beaten up!' However, Jack argued that they would be doing Texas a disservice by not visiting the monument and Ozzy agreed to return to the site. Ozzy was banned from performing in San Antonio for 10 years after urinating on The Alamo, but finally returned to the landmark in 2015 with his son Jack (both pictured) to make amends They learnt more about the memorial's historical significance upon their visit and Ozzy was able to make up for his previous mistake at the landmark. The Alamo have joined the outpouring of love for Ozzy after his family confirmed he died on Tuesday morning aged 76. 'It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,' they shared. 'He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.' He is survived by his wife Sharon and his six children. He shares three kids - Aimee, 41, Kelly, 41, and Jack, 40, with Sharon. Ozzy also welcomed two children - Jessica and Louis - from his first marriage to Thelma Riley, while he also adopted her son Elliot from her previous relationship. The musician had undergone seven surgeries in the past five years, including a fourth spinal operation in 2023, and had been battling Parkinson's disease since 2003. Ozzy took to the stage for his farewell concert at Villa Park Stadium in his native Birmingham less than three weeks before his death. The Alamo have joined the outpouring of love for Ozzy after his family confirmed he died on Tuesday morning aged 76, just weeks after his final performance (pictured) The rocker reunited with his original Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward for the first time since 2005 to bid an emotional farewell to his decades of performing live on stage. After selling out in minutes, over 42,000 fans packed into Villa Park for the aptly-titled Back to the Beginning show, which saw Ozzy and Black Sabbath return to their hometown - 56 years after they formed there. The final photograph of him before his death was taken on stage as he sat on a black throne aptly decorated with a bat to perform his best-known hits for his loyal fans. His final words on stage were: 'It's the last song ever. Your support has enabled us to live an amazing lifestyle, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.' A message on screen then read: 'Thank you for everything, you guys are f***ing amazing. Birmingham Forever,' before the sky lit up with fireworks. Before his final show, Ozzy said he hoped to continue recording music after retiring from live performing, but he heartbreakingly died before he was able to do so. He told Metal Hammer magazine: 'I still enjoy doing my own work, I also enjoy singing on other people's work. He is survived by his wife Sharon and his six children. He shares three kids - Aimee (not pictured), 41, Kelly, 41, and Jack, 40, with Sharon (pictured in 2015) 'For the foreseeable future, I will keep on recording if the projects interest me, it's very important.' Ozzy's last solo album, 2022's Patient Number 9, featured a long list of guest artists, including hid Black Sabbath bandmate Tony Iommi, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Zakk Wylde, and Pearl Jam's Mike McCready, among others. Black Sabbath pioneered heavy metal music in the early 1970s with hits such as War Pigs, Paranoid and Iron Man. The band's impact on music was enormous and they brought a heavy metal genre that had been in its infancy when they began to the attention of millions of fans. Peak Sunday morning viewing for angst-ridden adolescents of the noughties, Dawson's Creek changed the face of teen TV. The opening scene of Katie Holmes' Joey Potter informing her childhood best friend Dawson Leery (James Van Der Beek) that they can't continue their childhood sleepovers because of their 'emerging hormones' and 'sexual theoretics' set the tone. Dawson, Joey, Pacey (Joshua Jackson) and Jen (Michelle Williams) filled six seasons with Kevin Williamson's long-winded dialogue, mature themes and a lot of tears - the Dawson crying meme has a lifelong spot in the pop culture hall of fame. Over 128 episodes, which debuted in 1998, fans watched the foursome's Capeside escapades with the Dawson, Joey and Pacey love triangle becoming the core theme and fans divided into Team Dawson or Team Pacey. The flash forward finale which aired in 2003 finally resolved the romance web as well as shocking fans with the death of Michelle Williams' character Jen. Off screen the lives of the cast have seen just as much drama. Whilst the show shot many of them to international stardom, their personal lives have been blighted by health battles, high profile divorces and tragedy. As Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson reunite to film a new romance project together, we look back on how the cast's lives have unfolded over the past 20 years. Peak Sunday morning viewing for angst-ridden adolescents of the noughties, Dawson's Creek changed the face of teen TV James Van Der Beek Playing the lead cemented James as a teen heartthrob, helped by his juggling of blockbuster roles in the likes of Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction during his years playing Dawson. By the time the show ended James had also notched up the accolade of one of People Magazine's 50 most beautiful people. By the late noughties though his star power had fizzled, and he took on small screen roles and parts in off-Broadway productions as well as a Dancing With The Stars appearance. In recent years his personal life has seen him back in the headlines after he revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Playing the lead cemented James as a teen heartthrob, helped by his juggling of blockbuster roles in the likes of Varsity Blues and The Rules of Attraction during his years playing Dawson In recent years his personal life has seen him back in the headlines after he revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer Following his diagnosis, Van Der Beek, who shares six children with his wife, Kimberly, has kept working whilst maintaining his family life at his Texas home The actor, 47, said he had been 'privately dealing with this diagnosis and has been taking steps to resolve it with the support' of his incredible family. Following his diagnosis, Van Der Beek, who shares six children with his wife, Kimberly, has kept working whilst maintaining his family life at his Texas home, after moving away from Los Angeles in 2020. Michelle Williams Michelle, 44, played Jen Lindley, the NYC wildchild banished to Capeside to live with her grandmother. Post-Dawson's Michelle has arguably had the most career success, earning four Oscar nods and winning two Golden Globes. One of her most acclaimed big screen roles was in the 2004 movie Brokeback Mountain, where she also met her partner Heath Ledger. Michelle, 44, played Jen Lindley, the NYC wildchild banished to Capeside to live with her grandmother One of her most acclaimed big screen roles was in the 2004 movie Brokeback Mountain, where she also met her partner Heath Ledger The couple welcomed daughter Matilda in October 2005 before breaking up in 2007. Three months later, Ledger died of an accidental drug overdose. He was just 28. Michelle didn't comment publicly on Ledger's tragic death until 2016, instead quietly focusing on raising their daughter away from the limelight. 'In all honesty, for pretty much everything else, I feel like I'm a believer in not fighting circumstances, accepting where you are and where you've been. In pretty much all senses but one,' she told Porter magazine in 2016. She added of her sense of loss for her daughter: 'I would be able to go totally down that line of thinking were it not for Matilda not having her dad. You know, that's just something that doesn't I mean, it just won't ever be right.' Joshua Jackson Playing Dawson's best friend and the boy who would eventually win Joey Potter's heart, Joshua was the bad boy of Capeside. After wrapping the show Josh, 47, went on to play more teen rebels in the likes of Cruel Intentions. More recently he has found renewed small screen success, playing the leads in TV series Fringe and Doctor Odyssey. But like Pacey's messy romances, his personal life has been blighted by love woes. Playing Dawson's best friend and the boy who would eventually win Joey Potter's heart, Joshua was the bad boy of Capeside The actor recently settled his divorce from Jodie Turner-Smith but the pair continue to be locked in a contentious legal battle over decisions about their daughter. The actors were previously married for four years before their 2023 split and share one child, daughter Juno Rose Diana Jackson, whom they welcomed together in April 2020. Meanwhile, earlier this year Joshua lost his $2M home in Topanga Canyon to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. It was at that same house where the Doctor Odyssey star had previously spent his early childhood before moving back to Canada at the age of eight after his parents divorced. He purchased the property over two decades ago and was living there with his four-year-old daughter. Back in 2021, he spoke about purchasing the property where he previously lived as a young child in a sentimental, full circle moment. The actor recently settled his divorce from Jodie Turner-Smith but the pair continue to be locked in a contentious legal battle over decisions about their daughter 'My father unfortunately was not a good father or a husband and exited the scene,' he told Mr Porter in July 2021. 'But that house in Topanga was where everything felt simple, so it was a very healing thing for me to do.' He also revealed that after he and his then-wife welcomed Juno, his childhood bedroom became their daughter's room. 'There was a mural of a dragon on the wall in that room that I couldn't believe was still there, years later,' he said. 'The [previous] owner said, "I knew it meant a lot to somebody and that they were going to come back for it someday,' he added. Katie Holmes Katie, 46, was the epitome of girl next door, playing Joey Potter on the show. Joey's troubled family life made for some spicy storylines with her father in prison for drug trafficking before she was memorably robbed at gunpoint. Offscreen, Katie's high profile marriage to Tom Cruise and subsequent divorce have overshadowed her career post-Dawson's. It was in 2012, that Tom and Katie revealed they were divorcing after five years of marriage - marking one of the most high profile splits showbiz has ever seen. For years the pair were deemed one of Hollywood's biggest couples, with Tom famously declaring his love for Kate while jumping on a sofa during an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show. Katie was the epitome of girl next door, playing Joey Potter on the show. Joey's troubled family life and her love triangle with Dawson and Pacey made for some spicy storylines The couple, married in 2006 in a Scientologist ceremony in Italy, just months after welcoming their daughter Suri, but things slowly crumbled, with sources claiming Katie felt intimidated by the Church and its influence. In June 2012, it was reported that Katie decided to file for divorce in New York because it could potentially give her a better chance of gaining sole custody of Suri. With sole custody of Suri, Holmes would be able to remove her daughter from the Church of Scientology, which she was alleged to dislike and distrust, despite her husband's enthusiasm for it. On July 9 2012, Katie's lawyer confirmed her divorce with Tom had been settled, with Katie having been granted sole custody of Suri, who was six at the time. The former couple reached an agreement out of court, meaning the actor's beloved Scientology was no longer at risk of scrutiny with the religion's secrets being dissected during a trial. In 2017, she said that pivoting her career towards directing rather than acting was a deliberate move to be more present for Suri. Offscreen, Katie's high profile marriage to Tom Cruise and subsequent divorce have overshadowed her career (pictured in 2012) Pictured: Dawson's Creek actress Katie Holmes and Suri Cruise in Manhattan's Soho neighbourhood in February 2024 Happy Hours is her latest endeavour and sees Katie team up with Dawson's pal Joshua to portray former lovers who cross paths years later She previously described Suri growing up as 'heartbreaking', saying: 'You have to do everything you can to give them what they needand then they're going to go. And that's going to be very, very sad for me.' With Suri now enjoying life at college, Katie has a renewed focus on her work. Following her split from Tom , the star received 10m - as well as a $38,000-a-year child support agreement. Over the past 12 years, the star has received $400,000 for raising Suri alone - but is reportedly no longer entitled to child support now that their daughter is at college and a legal adult. Happy Hours is her latest endeavour and sees Katie team up with Dawson's pal Joshua to portray former lovers who cross paths years later and rekindle their romance while navigating the challenges of careers and family responsibilities. Katie wrote and stars in the trio of flicks, which will also mark her fourth, fifth, and sixth directorial features. Obi Ndefo Obi Ndefo played Katie Holmes' character's brother-in-law Bodie Wells on Dawson's Creek. The actor died in November 2024 at the age of 51, five years after losing both his legs in a horrific crash. Ndefo, who is a graduate of Yale, appeared in Dawson's Creek between 1998 and 2002. He was seriously injured in an August 2019 hit-and-run crash. Surgeons were forced to amputate his legs - one was left completely shattered and the other partially severed. Obi Ndefo played Katie Holmes ' character's brother-in-law Bodie Wells on Dawson's Creek. The actor died in November 2024 at the age of 51 (pictured on the show) He was loading a cooler in his trunk outside of an Erewhon Market on Beverly Boulevard when a drunk driver veered out of lane and struck him, according to the Los Angeles Times. Ndefo's friends and family set up a GoFundMe account in the aftermath of the incident - and raised more than $290,000. The page stated that the money would go towards 'new prosthetic legs, surgery and hospital costs not covered by insurance, and making Ndefo's home wheelchair accessible'. Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawsons mom Gale Leery on the show, dedicated an Instagram post to Ndefo at the time of his death. 'These words dont come easy,' she said. 'Its hard for me to conceive that you have left us, my dear friend. You always were and always will be a bright shining light. What an example of pure unfiltered love and tenacity you set as you faced lifes challenges of recent. 'I will cherish all of our messages of love and support to each other over the past few years. Rest in peace sweet warrior.' He lost both of his legs in an August 2019 hit-and-run crash Heidi Ferrer Dawson's Creek writer Heidi Ferrer, 50, took her own life in 2021 at her home in Los Angeles following a 13 month battle with COVID-19. She had been bedridden and riddled with excruciating pain since she contracted the virus in April 2020. Her husband, director Nick Guthe, told CNN that it took months for doctors to diagnose her ailments and get a referral for a long-haul Covid clinic, which arrived a day before she died. 'She had indicated that if things got really bad she didn't know how she could continue, she didn't know how she could keep going, and I just kept saying, you know, "Just hang on, you know, just hang on, medical science is moving at the quickest rate it ever has,"' Guthe said. Dawson's Creek writer Heidi Ferrer, 50, took her own life in 2021 at her home in Los Angeles following a 13 month battle with COVID-19 (pictured in 2006 with husband Nick Guthe) 'But I think she just felt that she was only going to diminish, she was going to lose the ability to walk, end up in a wheelchair, not be able to bathe herself.' The mother-of-one suffered body aches, including severe pains in her feet and ankles, fatigue and flu-like symptoms when she tested positive for COVID in April 2020. Her symptoms worsened, and by June she was bedridden. Over the following months, Ferrer's fatigue and foot pain remained but she also became crippled with neurological tremors. Ferrer was a career scriptwriter who penned several episodes of the hit 90s shows Dawson's Creek and Wasteland, as well as several films. Sam Thompson offered fans another glimpse of his impressive 'glow-up' as he headed to the gym on Wednesday. The Made In Chelsea star, 32, has impressed fans with his transformation in recent weeks, after his split from girlfriend Zara McDermott in December. In a new post on Instagram Stories, Sam said that he was 'proud' of his progress as he filmed himself completing reps of bicep curls. Showing of his ripped physique, he captioned the video: 'Shameless, yes. But so very proud of my progress.' Last month, Sam revealed the moment he decided to kickstart his viral 'glow-up,' following his split from girlfriend Zara. Speaking to MailOnline on the red carpet for the TRIC Awards, Sam admitted even he's been taken aback by the reaction to his new look, which became a recurring mention on his podcast Staying Relevant. Sam Thompson offered fans another glimpse of his impressive 'glow-up' as he headed to the gym on Wednesday The Made In Chelsea star has impressed fans with his transformation in recent weeks, after his split from girlfriend Zara McDermott in December (pictured with Ryan Libbey) Sam split from girlfriend Zara at the end of last year after five years together, and she has begun dating One Direction star Louis Tomlinson. He said: 'Do you know what's funny? I sometimes and think ''how s**t did I look?'' 'And it's true, because I remember, and I don't mind this going anywhere, I remember looking in the mirror and going ''damn it man, you've got to do something about yourself.'' 'So I just went to the gym a little bit, sort of like started buying some clothes had a haircut, and then you're like God, I feel so great. I really really do. I feel awesome, I'm so happy, which is so nice.' Asked whether he's quit booze as part of his transformation, Sam added: 'No, no. I never really drink that much, anyway, to be fair. But genuinely, it's just having something to work towards, which was the challenge for me. 'And then, to be honest with you, I've got amazing friends and family surrounded by me as well. I'm so incredibly lucky.' Sam previously sent fans into meltdown when he unveiled his 'post-split glow up'. Sam's hunky new look received rave reviews from fans, who gushed over the 'beautiful' snaps and declared he looked 'better than ever'. In a new post on Instagram Stories, Sam said that he was 'proud' of his progress as he filmed himself completing reps of bicep curls Pete also previously told MailOnline that Sam now has his own 'nighttime skin routine' as part of his recent transformation. He added: 'He'll absolutely love this, Sam is in his kind of glow up. He's really looking after himself at the minute. Sam smells great with him as well. He really does. 'He looks great. So this is something I'll be recommending to him to add into his daily routine. He's got a full night time routine, Sam! I only found out about the other day. 'That's why he looked so great at the minute. And I look like I've been dug up - I need to work on this nighttime routine.' In the latest, Sam is now dating American holistic nutritionist Steph Robinson, while Zara has moved on with One Direction star Louis Tomlinson. Their blossoming romance comes two weeks after MailOnline revealed the Made In Chelsea favourite was single again following the end of his relationship with Love Island's Samie Elishi. Podcaster Sam, who was spotted on celebrity dating app Raya post-breakup from Samie, recently admitted he needed time to heal before getting to know someone new, saying: 'I'm going to work on myself. No dating, I'm not ready and I've realised that.' But Sam and Steph have been seen together in the capital, where the nutritionist is currently residing, captioning an Instagram post in June, which was liked by Sam: 'London, I will be seeing a lot more of you soon.' Sam split from girlfriend Zara at the end of last year after five years together, and she has begun dating One Direction star Louis Tomlinson A source told MailOnline: 'Sam and Steph have been on a date and are getting to know each other. 'They connected through a mutual friend and didn't waste any time to meet in person, especially given Steph isn't always in town. 'Steph travels a lot for her work as a content creator but is currently spending an extended period in London and it couldn't have come at a better time. 'Sam is definitely having fun as a single man, going out when he isn't working, and spreading his wings.' Sam's new love interest has gone viral, sharing her views on health and nutrition, including a post where she warned fans against drinking oat milk, claiming there are other non-dairy products which are better for your body. Steph travels the world reviewing health retreats including in Austria and Mexico and regularly shares recipes to help her following banish toxic eating habits. MailOnline has contacted Sam's spokesperson for comment. British punk rock band The Damned have been forced to cancel three dates on their tour after an 'unexpected and catastrophic event'. The group - currently consisting of Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Paul Gray, Monty Oxymoron, and Rat Scabies - will no longer be performing in Seattle, Vancouver or Portland later this week. They announced the disappointing news in a statement posted to their official social media accounts on Tuesday. It read: 'We are very sorry to have to cancel our Seattle, Portland and Vancouver shows this weekend, due to an unexpected and catastrophic event at a member of The Damned's Home. 'We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Refunds will be available for our two headline shows at your point of purchase.' The group still have a number of dates scheduled on the tour, which runs until the end of September, including performances in both Europe and America. British punk rock band The Damned have been forced to cancel three dates on their tour after an 'unexpected and catastrophic event' (Paul Gray, Rat Scabies, Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible and Monty Oxymoron pictured L-R in August 2024) They announced the concerning news on their official social media accounts on Tuesday in a statement (the band pictured in June 2023) 'We are very sorry to have to cancel our Seattle, Portland and Vancouver shows this weekend, due to an unexpected and catastrophic event at a member of The Damned's Home,' the statement read MailOnline have contacted The Damned representatives for comment. It comes just a few months after the band's legendary guitarist Brian James died at the age of 70. The musician, who founded The Damned and played with Ozzy Osbourne's Black Sabbath, passed away peacefully in early March. Brian had been one of the band's main songwriters after they shot to stardom in the 1970s, and was hailed as the writer of the UK's first ever punk single New Rose, released in 1976. A statement on his Facebook page read: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the death of one of the true pioneers of music, guitarist, songwriter, and true gentleman, Brian James.' Brian left The Damned after the release of their second album and went on to found the short-lived band Tanz Der Youth. He later formed The Lords of the New Church with his friend and fellow rocker Stiv Bators. Together they released singles such as Open Your Eyes, Dance with Me, and Method to My Madness. He then went on to The Dripping Lips and the Brian James Gang and created more solo albums. It comes just a few months after the band's legendary guitarist Brian James (pictured in 2022) died at the age of 70 Members of punk rock group (Brian James is seen in the centre) The Damned in London in June 1977 The original members of The Damned (left to right) Rat Scabies, Dave Vanian, Brian James and Captain Sensible at the Roundhouse, London In 2022, more than forty years after the release of New Rose, The Damned reunited for a series of shows across the UK. Throughout his career, Brian worked with a number of rock 'n' roll stars including Iggy Pop, Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland and Cheetah Chrome. The tribute to Brian continued: 'Incessantly creative and a musical tour de force, over a career which spanned more than six decades, with his music also gracing film and television soundtracks, in addition to The Damned and The Lords of the New Church, Brian worked with a plethora of punk and rock n rolls finest, from Iggy Pop to Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland to Cheetah Chrome. 'Most recently, more than four decades after the release of the epoch-making New Rose, the original members of The Damned reformed for a series of very special and emotional UK shows in 2022. 'With his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia by his side, Brian passed peacefully on Thursday 6th March 2025.' Brian was survived by his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia. MasterChef Australia fans are up in arms after two stars from the cooking show appeared to break a kitchen taboo during Tuesday's episode. The moment came as contestants were preparing their courses for the service immunity challenge at Melbourne's Vue De Monde. As contestant Laura Sharrad flamed a handful of delicious looking wagu steaks, the 29-year-old from Adelaide was seen to blow on the food - a gesture that sent viewers firing off alarmed comments online. 'What's with Laura blowing all over the steak?' moaned one fan, while another added, 'Laura stop blowing on food.' And to add more drama to the issue, Executive Chef Hugh Allen was seen doing exactly the same thing - cooling down a dish by blowing on the food. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. MasterChef Australia fans are up in arms after two stars from the cooking show appeared to break a kitchen taboo during Tuesday's episode. Pictured: Laura Sharrad As contestant Laura Sharrad flamed a handful of delicious looking wagu steaks, the 29-year-old from Adelaide was seen to blow on the food - a gesture that sent viewers firing off alarmed comments online 'Totally fine if you're only cooking for yourself, but not if you're going to serve the food to others,' someone else said. 'I really don't want someone else's saliva in the food I'm going to eat. That's disgusting and unhygienic.' Another viewer agreed with the critical comments on the thread before adding, 'no one told Laura not to, then along comes Hugh and does the same.' 'All that saliva Laura is blowing over those Wagyu cubes,' said another MasterChef enthusiast. Most viewers complaining about the 'food blowing' saw it as a hygiene risk. 'I'm not eating anything that the chef has continually blown over. That's a no-no, and I'm surprised nothing was said to Laura. But then Hugh blew over it too. Yuck,' explained one fan on the thread. It's not the first time viewers have had a whinge about 'kitchen crimes' this season. Fans blasted contestant Theo Loizou back in May for tasting his dish with a spoon and then returning the utensil to stir his saucepan. And to add more drama to the issue, Executive Chef Hugh Allen (pictured) was seen doing exactly the same thing - cooling down a dish by blowing on the food The moment came as contestants were preparing their courses for the service immunity challenge at Melbourne's Vue De Monde. Pictured: judge Andy Allen The faux pas sent viewers into an uproar, with some taking to social media to blast the fan favourite for dropping the show's high hygiene standards. 'Anyone else notice Theo tasting his puree and then putting the same spoon back into the pot?' one viewer wrote on Reddit. 'I mean don't tell me I'm the only one! I always catch myself watching out for this and it drives me nuts when contestants do it. Total pet peeve of mine. Yeesh.' Another viewer claimed the practice of 'double-dipping' was rife among the contestants on the cooking show. 'They all do it!! And what's with the lack of hygiene when it comes to hair being open or in your face? That's the biggest ick!' they said. According to 2024 MasterChef Australia contestant Sumeet Saigal, the cast is informed of the hygiene standards ahead of filming. 'You're always briefed about hygiene and you're always reminded,' she told Yahoo Lifestyle last June. She said the 'rules' included no 'double-dipping', no re-using of spoons and any food that hits the floor goes straight in the bin. Georgia Toffolo was flogging brand deals to her social media followers in the wake of the news her husband's BrewDog company is closing 10 bars later this week. The former Made In Chelsea star, 30, is married to BrewDog co-founder and former CEO James Watt, 43. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Georgia shared a sponsored ad promoting probiotic supplement Symprove. The former I'm A Celebrity winner encouraged people to sign up for the company's 12-week subscription and said she 'adores' the brand. 'It's been my ride or die for the last four or five years, I don't go a day without it,' she told her followers. Georgia Toffolo was flogging brand deals to her social media followers in the wake of the news her husband's BrewDog company is closing 10 bars later this week The former Made In Chelsea star, 30, is married to BrewDog co-founder and former CEO James Watt, 43 'Last month they launched their new pineapple flavour which I've got to say is a really big hit in our household.' It is understood BrewDog's closure plans, which are part of a fresh strategy for the brewing firm's hospitality arm, will put close to 100 jobs at risk. The Scottish craft brewing giant said it has made efforts to preserve the site, but it 'has simply not been possible to make these bars commercially viable'. It will shut all the bars on July 26 and launch a consultation process lasting at least 14 days. In May 2024, Georgia's husband James stepped down from the CEO role after 17 years, taking on a new position as 'captain and co-founder'. He retains his 21% shareholding in the company, according to The Independent. BrewDog said it will shut sites including its Aberdeen flagship pub on Gallowgate, the group's first bar site, following a review process. Chief executive James Taylor told staff the closures are part of a refresh of its estate, partly in response to 'rising costs, increased regulation, and economic pressures' on the sector. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Georgia shared a sponsored ad promoting probiotic supplement Symprove BrewDog said it will shut the bars on Saturday and launch a consultation with staff. He added that the brand will however still look to grow its bar business, with plans for more larger bars in 'destination' locations and to open smaller community bars. A BrewDog spokesman said: 'We can confirm that following a review of our bars business we have made the difficult decision to close 10 bars which reflects a more focused strategy and a rationalisation of our bar footprint. 'This decision is not simply a response to the challenging UK hospitality market, but a proactive decision to redefine the bar division's focus for long-term and profitable growth accounting for ongoing industry challenges, including rising costs, increased regulation, and economic pressures. 'We are working hard to minimise the impact on our people, and we expect to redeploy many affected team members across the BrewDog network. 'For those leaving the business, we're providing as much support as possible during this transition.' The former I'm A Celebrity winner encouraged people to sign up for the company's 12-week subscription and said she 'adores' the brand The company will shut the following bars: Aberdeen Gallowgate Brighton Camden, London Dundee Leeds North Street Oxford Sheffield Shepherds Bush, London Shoreditch, London York Georgia and James said 'I do' on a fishing boat earlier this year. The pair got engaged in October after the millionaire proposed with an exquisite eight carat triple-diamond studded band estimated to be worth 200,000 during a romantic getaway in Greece for Georgia's 30th birthday. Billy Joel's biggest revelation after filming his new documentary was uncovering the truth that his absentee father Howard Joel was a driving force behind his music and life. In the HBO film Billy Joel: And So It Goes, the 76-year-old Grammy winner lays bare a life marked by turmoil from a rocky start to his marriage with Elizabeth Weber, once married to his bandmate Jon Small, to battles with addiction and, now, a relentless brain disorder thats forced him to cancel concerts. But its his fathers shadow that looms largest. In the documentary, Joel recalls Howard 'knocking me out' at age 8 over a piano mistake and eventually abandoning the family to move to Europe. Although they would later reconnect, Joel reflected in a new interview that searching for his father remained a driving force throughout his life. '[Co-director] Susan Lacy pointed out that a lot of the things I was searching for were my father in my life, and I recognized that in the documentary,' Joel told People on Wednesday. Billy Joel 's biggest revelation after filming his new documentary was uncovering the truth that his absentee father Howard Joel was a driving force behind his music and life; (seen in 2024) In the documentary, Joel recalls Howard knocking me out at age 8 over a piano mistake before eventually leaving the family for Europe, and says that even after they reconnected, searching for his father remained a driving force in his life; (Joel with father Howard Joel in 1986) 'I said, "You know what? I think thats true. I was looking for my dad."' Billys father Howard (born Helmut), who died in 2011 at age 87, hailed from a Jewish family in Nuremberg, Germany. As the son of a successful merchant and manufacturer, Howard grew up in a privileged environment and was educated in Switzerland. In addition to his business career, he was a skilled amateur classical pianist, a talent that likely influenced Billys early interest in music. In 1957, Howard divorced Billys mother Rosalind and returned to Europe, choosing to settle in Vienna, Austria. The separation meant that Billy and his sister grew up largely without a close relationship with his father. Though they eventually reconnected when Billy was in his early twenties, the years apart left a lasting impact. During his life in Vienna, Howard remarried and had another son, Alexander Joel, who carved out his own path as a pianist and conductor. '[Co-director] Susan Lacy pointed out that a lot of the things I was searching for were my father in my life, and I recognized that in the documentary,' Joel said;; (seen in 1986) 'One thing I remember, I was supposed to be playing the 'Moonlight Sonata,'" Billy said in the documentary, 'Must have been about eight years old. And rock & roll was around at that point 'He came down the stairs. Bam! I got whacked And I got whacked so hard, he knocked me out. I was unconscious for like a minute' Billy Joel acknowledged that his 1977 song Vienna' was about his father during the People interview. He added of making the documentary, 'There was some stuff I found out about myself. There was some self-revelatory stuff.' In the film, Joel opened up about his father in deeper detail, recalling a moment from childhood when he was punished for making a mistake on the piano. 'One thing I remember, I was supposed to be playing the 'Moonlight Sonata,'" Billy said. 'Must have been about eight years old. And rock & roll was around at that point.' 'He came down the stairs. Bam! I got whacked,' Billy continued. 'And I got whacked so hard, he knocked me out. I was unconscious for like a minute. 'And I remember waking up going, 'Well, that got his attention.' And that was my memory of his piano lessons. So, he didn't teach me much.' The interview follows an emotional health update from Billy Joel, who recently revealed hes battling a brain condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Back in May, the 76-year-old music icon announced his diagnosis and canceled several upcoming concerts after struggling during recent live performances. In May, music icon Joel, 76, revealed his diagnosis and announced the cancellation of his upcoming concerts, following recent onstage struggles - Joel seen performing in February 2025 The condition has affected his hearing, vision, and balance symptoms he opened up about on Mondays episode of Bill Mahers Club Random podcast. 'I feel fine. My balance sucks. Its like being a boat,' Joel said, noting that doctors still arent sure whats causing the disorder. 'They dont know I thought it must be from drinking.' Over the years, Joel has spoken openly about his past struggles with alcohol, substance abuse, and mental health including a suicide attempt brought on by intense career pressure. 'I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what Im feeling,' he said. According to the Mayo Clinic, hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the brain that enlarges the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially leading to neurological damage. Joel is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy and has been advised by his doctors to hold off on performing during his recovery. There is a new movie coming out about the Kennedys. American Love Story will follow JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's whirlwind romance as they became a power couple then tabloid fodder. The couple tragically passed away in a plane crash in 1999 when she was 33 and he was 38 but there is still massive intrigue about the two. Sarah Pidgeon, 29, is playing Carolyn in the new project. On Tuesday a new look at Sarah as Carolyn was shared with mixed reviews on if she nailed the look. Some fans on Reddit said she was 'spot on with those big eyes' while others felt her hair was not 'blonde enough' to play the glam queen of New York. Many wondered if Sarah was wearing a wig or if she dyed her hair blonde. The movie premieres in February 2026 There is a new movie coming out about the Kennedys. American Love Story will follow JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's whirlwind romance as they became tabloid fodder. Seen in 1999 The couple tragically passed away in a plane crash in 1999 when she was 33 and he was 38 but there is still massive intrigue about the two Pidgeon was seen filming on the street in New York City. The star wore a black turtleneck with slacks and a black purse over her shoulder. Her long blonde hair was worn down in a casual style as she had on brown eye makeup and red lipstick on. Her bails were short as she did not appear to have her wedding rings on. The star was coming out of the subway exit in the midtown area of Manhattan. Carolyn was a fashion publicist who worked for Calvin Klein until her 1996 marriage to JFK Jr. The couple, along with her older sister Lauren, died in a plane crash off the coast of Martha's Vineyard in 1999. Bessette was born in White Plains, New York and had two older sisters, twins Lauren and Lisa. The star with the French background attended Boston University's School of Education, graduating in 1988 with a degree in elementary education. Bessette briefly attempted a modeling career, but it did not pan out. The couple seen during a night on the town in 1995 Sarah Pidgeon, 29, is playing Carolyn in the new project On Tuesday a new look at Sarah as Carolyn was shared with mixed reviews on if she nailed the look Some fans on Reddit said she was 'spot on with those big eyes' Others felt her hair was not 'blonde enough' to play the glam queen of New York During her career at Calvin Klein, she went from being a saleswoman to becoming the director of publicity for the company's flagship store in Manhattan. Then she worked with Klein's high-profile clients like Annette Bening and Diane Sawyer. Bessette first met Kennedy in 1992, while he was dating actress Daryl Hannah. Bessette and Kennedy began dating in 1994, she then moved into Kennedy's Tribeca loft in the summer of 1995, and the couple became engaged later that year. Kennedy and Bessette wed on September 21, 1996 on the remote Georgia island of Cumberland. The couple honeymooned in Turkey. She got a ton of media attention and there were comparisons to her mother-in-law, former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The movie premieres in February 2026. Carolyn and her husband seen in NYC in the '90s Pidgeon was seen filming on the street in New York City. The star wore a black turtleneck with slacks and a black purse over her shoulder Her long blonde hair was worn down in a casual style as she had on brown eye makeup and red lipstick on. Her bails were short as she did not appear to have her wedding rings on. The star was coming out of the subway exit in the midtown area of Manhattan There was talk the Kennedys were experiencing marital problems and contemplating divorce in the months preceding their deaths. In his book, The Kennedy Curse: Why Tragedy Has Haunted America's First Family for 150 Years, Klein claimed that the couple's problems reportedly stemmed from Bessette-Kennedy's difficulty dealing with the media attention. Bessette-Kennedy died on July 16, 1999, along with her husband and older sister Lauren, when the light plane John Jr. was piloting crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off the western coast of Martha's Vineyard. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) determined that the probable cause of the crash was: 'The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a descent over water at night, which was a result of spatial disorientation. Factors in the accident were haze and the dark night.' After a five-day search, the wreckage was discovered in the late afternoon of July 21. The bodies were recovered from the ocean floor by Navy divers and taken by motorcade to the county medical examiner's office, where autopsies revealed that the crash victims had died upon impact. All tested negative for alcohol and drugs. Carolyn was a fashion publicist. She worked for Calvin Klein until her 1996 marriage to JFK Jr. The couple, along with her older sister Lauren, died in a plane crash off the coast of Martha's Vineyard in 1999 Paul Kelly and Pidgeon as JFK Jr and Bessette are seen on the set of Ryan Murphy's American Love Story on June 18 in New York City Pidgeon seen in another look from the film The new movie has several other Kennedy characters in it. Jackie O - also known as Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis - is being portrayed by Naomi Watts, 56. Onassis was a writer, book editor, and socialite who served as the first lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, as the wife of President John F. Kennedy. Jackie died in 1994 at the age of 64 in New York City. Blonde actress Watts sported a brown wig as she transformed into Jackie. Watts was filming a scene in a park on Monday afternoon in New York City. Also in the movie is Paul Kelly, who will play Jackie's son John F. Kennedy Jr. Grace Gummer, who is playing Jackie's daughter Caroline Kennedy, was also seen playing in the park with two little girls that are playing Caroline's daughters Rose and Tatiana. JFK Jr's ex-girlfriend Daryl Hannah is being played by Dree Hemingway, 37, whose mother is actress Mariel Hemingway. She gained attention playing the lead in director Sean Baker's feature Starlet. Dree has since become known for her high-profile fashion campaigns and her extensive work in independent film. Hollyoaks star Ben-Ryan Davies has announced he is having his first baby with his girlfriend Lottie. The actor, 36, who plays Nick Savage on the soap, took to Instagram to announce the happy news. Ben shared a photo of the happy couple posing with their ultrasound scan. Alongside the snap, he wrote: 'Absolutely over the moon to tell you all the news that me and Lottie are expecting a baby in 2025!' The pair were inundated with well wishes from their followers, including Emmerdale actor Danny Miller who wrote: 'Congrats again my brother!' Hollyoaks star Ben-Ryan Davies has announced he is having his first baby with his girlfriend Lottie It appears Ben and Lottie have had something of a whirlwind romance. The actor revealed their relationship in April by sharing several loved-up snaps It appears Ben and Lottie have had something of a whirlwind romance. The actor revealed their relationship in April by sharing several loved-up snaps. He penned in the caption: 'What an amazing 6 months. I'm so excited for our future together. You've changed my life and I'm so happy.' As the post was shared in April, the couple likely began dating in October or November and have been together less than a year. Ben joined Hollyoaks in 2016 as evil Nick Savage. He left the soap the following year when his character was sent to prison for raping Ellie Nightingale. In his younger days, he had a recurring role in Waterloo Road as Ronan Burley and he has also made appearances on Holby City and Casualty. He is currently peforming in panto in an adults only version of The Wizard Of Oz. It comes after fellow Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle hit the headlines recently after he reportedly returned to London and signed up to celebrity dating app Raya. The ex-Hollyoaks star, who finished runner up on Strictly Come Dancing in 2009, moved to Los Angeles to work in Hollywood in 2011. He penned in the caption: 'What an amazing 6 months. I'm so excited for our future together. You've changed my life and I'm so happy' Ben joined Hollyoaks in 2016 as evil Nick Savage. He left the soap the following year when his character was sent to prison for raping Ellie Nightingale It comes after fellow Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle hit the headlines recently after he reportedly returned to London and signed up to celebrity dating app Raya According to The Sun, one picture showed the actor cuddling a quokka and another of him running shirtless through a street. A source said: 'It's like he's saying I'm cuddly, hot and very available. 'His profile popped up a couple of weeks ago. It says he's an actor who lives in LA but was visiting London. 'Given how good he looks, I bet he had loads of people swiping on his profile.' Ricky is best known over here for playing Calvin Valentine on Hollyoaks. After his character was killed off in 2010, Ricky relocated moved and has starred in shows including The 100 and American Gods. Married At First Sight UK star Jess O'Connor, known as Jess Potter, has welcomed her first child with her fiance TJ O'Reilly. The dental hygienist, who shot to fame on the E4 show in 2022, underwent four gruelling rounds of IVF before revealing earlier this year that she was expecting a baby. Jess had previously suffered three miscarriages and a failed adoption and has been open about her battle with infertility. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Jess shared the happy news that she and TJ has welcomed a baby girl called Mia Jane O'Reilly after 12 hours of labour and five days in hospital. She shared an adorable picture of baby Mia along with snaps from her hospital bed after giving birth. 'After 5 days at hospital, 4 days in early Labour, 12 hours of active labour... a lot of screaming. I had the birth I've always wanted...,' she wrote. 'Mia Jane OReilly 6lbs 6oz born 4:51am 23rd July. You're perfect in every kind of way.' Married At First Sight UK star Jess O'Connor, known as Jess Potter, has welcomed her first child with her fiance TJ O'Reilly, she revealed on Instagram on Wednesday Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Jess shared the happy news that she and TJ has welcomed a baby girl called Mia Jane O'Reilly after 12 hours of labour and five days in hospital Almost 24 hours before, Jess had shared a picture of herself in her hospital gown before going into active labour. She captioned it: 'Waters went 8am, on hormone drip, had epidural, only progressed 2cm in 12 hours, waiting for the doctor.' Announcing her pregnancy in January, Jess shared a sweet video and wrote: 'After almost 3 years, 3 failed IVF cycles, 4 losses, and hundreds of injections Our journey has been filled with heartache, hope, and resilience. But today, were overwhelmed with gratitude to share with you: 'Our miracle baby O'Reilly arriving July 2025! This little heartbeat is proof that dreams do come true, no matter how long the road may be. 'Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. For anyone still waiting, we see you, and were holding space for your story. With love, Jess & Tom .' Jess set up a GoFundMe page to raise 10k for the successful IVF round in February of last year. She took to social media at the time to reveal she was planning to ask members of the public for help in funding her treatment after three failed rounds of IVF. Days after revealing her attempt at adopting with her fiance TJ O'Reilly had been rejected, she took to Instagram and TikTok to confirm they were seeking public funding after spending 15k on three rounds and losing three babies. The dental hygienist, who shot to fame on the E4 show in 2022 (pictured), underwent four gruelling rounds of IVF before revealing earlier this year that she was expecting a baby She shared an adorable picture of baby Mia along with snaps from her hospital bed after giving birth 'After 5 days at hospital, 4 days in early Labour, 12 hours of active labour... a lot of screaming,' she said In a heartbreaking turn of events, Jess revealed she was receiving abuse from followers in the wake of her announcement, with some cruel critics branding her 'a scrounger' and claiming she should 'save her own money'. Despite criticism, she did however garner a whopping 1,825 of her 10k goal from 164 patrons, within 17 hours of going live, and continues to ask for cash from fans. Jess, who became engaged to TJ in October, has been candid about her fertility journey, with her social media documenting her failed IVF bids. Earlier this week, she revealed their attempts at adoption had failed as they have not been a couple long enough - leading to her GoFundMe attempt. Taking to Instagram, she shared a selfie with her boyfriend and added a caption reading: 'Rightwere doing it!! GO FUND ME!! I know its A LOT to ask and of course were not expecting anything but we really do want one more shot at IVF... 'We need further tests which (one test alone) costs 2000. Our embryos would need to be moved to another clinic which again is very costly. Then a new IVF protocol and hopefully [fingers crossed] a 4th (and final) transfer 'Praying that we get our happy ever after. All Ive ever wanted is to be a mum and I just really want another shot at this!... 'So if anyone can help in anyway I will be SO grateful!!!! - will keep everyone updated with everything as we go along of course ! Link is in bio if u are able to donate at all'. Jess, who became engaged to TJ in October, has been candid about her fertility journey, with her social media documenting her failed IVF bids Almost 24 hours before, Jess had shared a picture of herself in her hospital gown before going into active labour On the GoFundMe page, Jess penned: 'Hi, my names Jess and for the past 2 years me and my partner Tom have been trying for a baby. We have been unsuccessful... 'We have had IVF three times resulting in 3 pregnancy losses. We would love to have another go at having a family, as being parents is all we have ever wanted but, we have spent over 15K and have no more savings... 'IVF costs a ridiculous amount and after 3 losses we would have to do further investigations to try and find out why we cannot have a successful pregnancy which cost thousands alone... 'Once we have discovered what could be causing all this heartache we would love to have another round of IVF... 'We would need to move our embryos to another clinic that specialises in reoccurring pregnancy loss which again is very costly... 'If anyone can help us in anyway to get near our goal of possibly having a child to love and complete us then we would be eternally grateful. x... 'All i've ever wanted is to be a mum and this has been the hardest 2 years of my life. It's drained the life out of me and the fact the money is causing another strain is heartbreaking. If anyone could help we would really appreciate it #IVFWARRIOR... 'I will be posting regular updates on tests we will be having and results and hopefully we can start a new round of IVF before the summer. Thanks again <3'. Julia Butters, who shot to fame aged 10 in Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood, was spotted on this week's buzziest red carpet. In the 2019 Quentin Tarantino film, she featured as a plucky child actress called Trudi Fraser who works with Leonardo DiCaprio's has-been Western star Rick Dalton. She made an unforgettable impression, earning a shower of nominations from outfits like the Critics' Choice Movie Awards and the Hollywood Film Critics Association. Hopping from one legendary director to another, Julia then landed a supporting role in Steven Spielberg's semiautobiographical 2022 movie The Fabelmans. Now 16, Julia is part of the cast of the new Freaky Friday sequel Freakier Friday, and attended the film's glittering Los Angles premiere this Tuesday. She posed at the iconic El Capitan Theater amid a cavalcade of famous faces, including the motion picture's leads Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, who respectively play Julia's mother and grandmother. In Once Upon a Time... In Hollywood, Julia Butters, then 10 years old, played a plucky child actress who works with Leonardo DiCaprio's has-been Western star Rick Dalton Julia comes from a showbiz family as the daughter of animator Darrin Butters, who has worked on films like Frozen, Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph and Moana. She herself started acting in commercials as a little girl before making her TV series debut with a guest shot on Criminal Minds in 2014, the year she turned five. Her first feature film was the 2016 action extravaganza 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, directed by Michael Bay and starring John Krasinski. Julia's big break arrived shortly thereafter when Quentin Tarantino cast her in Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood as a child actress on a TV Western. She has admitted that when she first showed up on set, she 'didn't know' who Quentin was and 'didnt know who anybody else was, either,' up to and including her globally recognized co-stars Leo, Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie. Her mother Lorelei had to explain to her that 'everyone here is famous,' Julia shared in a Vanity Fair interview around the time of the film's release. Audiences and critics alike were enchanted by her performance, as was Leo, who gushed publicly that Julia was like a young Meryl Streep. She joined her castmates on the awards show circuit and charmed fans by bringing a packed meal to the Oscars, which had a 70 percent plant-based dinner menu. Now 16, Julia is part of the cast of the new Freaky Friday sequel Freakier Friday, and attended the film's glittering Hollywood premiere on Tuesday She is pictured with her co-stars (from left) Manny Jacinto, Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Sophia Hammons and Chad Michael Murray at the event In the sequel, Lindsay's character has a daughter and a stepdaughter-to-be, and the three of them - plus Jamie Lee's character - wind up in a four-way body swap Julia charmed fans by bringing a packed meal to the 2020 Oscars, which had a 70 percent plant-based dinner menu, saying: 'I don't like some of the food here' 'I don't like some of the food here,' she remarked, by way of explaining the turkey sandwich she was carrying in her $2,495 Marzook purse. In the intervening years, her roles have included a character based on Steven Spielberg's sister Anne in the filmmaker's 2022 picture The Fabelmans. Her career continued apace with a voice role last year on the Monsters, Inc. spin-off show Monsters at Work - and now with her star turn in Freakier Friday. Freaky Friday, which came out in 2003, was based on a novel by Mary Rodgers, the daughter of The Sound of Music and Oklahoma! composer Richard Rodgers. Jamie Lee and Lindsay starred respectively as a mother and daughter who switch bodies, enabling them to develop a greater understanding of each other. In the sequel, Lindsay's character has a daughter and a stepdaughter-to-be, and the three of them - plus Jamie Lee's character - wind up in a four-way body swap. Julia plays the daughter and Disney Channel actress Sophia Hammons plays the stepdaughter in Freakier Friday, which bows in theaters August 8. Authorities have confirmed that Malcolm-Jamal Warner was swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when he accidentally drowned during their Costa Rica vacation. According to police, surfers leapt to action after spotting the late actor, best known for his role of Theo Huxtable in sitcom The Cosby Show, and his little girl 'struggling' in the ocean after getting caught by a rip current. After diving in to help, law enforcement told ABC News that one surfer 'used his board to bring Warner's daughter to safety and a volunteer lifeguard pulled Warner and another surfer to shore.' Warner, who died of asphyxia by submersion, was then given 45 minutes of CPR. Unfortunately, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene by authorities. He was 54. The father and daughter were swimming near Cocles, a beach in Limon, Costa Rica, before tragedy struck. Authorities have confirmed that Malcolm-Jamal Warner was swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when he accidentally drowned during their Costa Rica vacation The outlet noted that both surfers survived the harrowing ordeal on Sunday. Daily Mail has reached out to Warners representatives for comment, but they have not yet responded. Prior to his passing, Warner made a conscious effort to keep his daughter and wife out of the spotlight, apart from the occasional social media post. For privacy reasons, he chose not to publicly disclose his daughter or wife's names. Earlier this week, officials announced that a man left in critical condition was trying to save the actor. A spokesman for The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) revealed the Good Samaritan had entered the water to help Warner after he was swept away by a rip current. A statement obtained by People confirmed the unidentified 35-year-old man had no personal connection to the actor beforehand and was simply on the beach at the time Warner got into difficulty. Warner was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limon province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. After diving in to help, law enforcement told ABC News that one surfer 'used his board to bring Warner's daughter to safety and a volunteer lifeguard pulled Warner and another surfer to shore' Surfers leapt to action after spotting the late actor and little girl 'struggling' in the ocean after getting caught by a rip current First responders from Costa Rica's Red Cross found Warner without vital signs when they attended the scene of the 'water related incident' around 2.10pm on Sunday. Per the OIJ, Warner's body will be 'removed from the Judicial Morgue by a funeral service company hired and authorized by Mr. Warner's family.' According to TMZ, his remains are scheduled to leave Costa Rica on Thursday and will arrive in Los Angeles on Friday morning A source told the outlet that the actor's body was 'turned over by the Judicial Morgue on Wednesday morning, following the completion of his autopsy.' Following Warner's shock death, lifeguards from Playa Grande a beach community located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica released a statement saying they were not present due to lack of 'resources.' 'We deeply regret the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner at Playa Grande. He was swept away by a strong rip current and died by drowning,' the Caribbean Guard, Costa Rica's volunteer lifeguard association, shared via Facebook on Monday. 'It all happened very quickly, and although there were people on the beach who entered the water to rescue him, they did not arrive in time.' Warner, who died of asphyxia by submersion, was then given 45 minutes of CPR 'He was pulled from underwater without vital signs, and despite CPR maneuvers being performed on the beach, resuscitation was unsuccessful.' The Guard added that Playa Grande is one of their 'most challenging beaches,' noting the presence of signs in English and Spanish that warn of the 'danger of death due to drowning.' Though the Guard has patrolled there 'over the past few years,' they alleged that they were 'not present' at the time of Warners death. 'Due to recent aquatic incidents in Playa Negra, we had redirected resources there and to Chiquita, another iconic beach known for its strong currents,' they shared in the statement. They then made an appeal to Costa Ricas president, Rodrigo Chaves Robles, and the government. Unfortunately, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene by authorities. He was 54 upon his passing The Costa Rican National Police reported that Warners body was discovered near Cocles, a beach in the Limon province (Playa Cocles pictured above) Following Warner's shock death at 54, lifeguards from Playa Grande released a statement saying they were not present due to lack of 'resources' 'From Caribbean Guard, a volunteer lifeguard association, we make an urgent appeal to the President of the Nation, the national government, the Municipality of Talamanca, and the entire Caribbean community to continue joining forces to minimize this problem, which, sadly, is on the rise ACROSS THE ENTIRE COUNTRY.' 'We do everything within our reach. We have saved numerous lives in recent years, and if Caribbean Guard didnt exist, the number of drownings would be counted in dozens. We give everything we have to minimize the risks, but without help from the government, clear public policies, and strong support from local business owners, this will continue to happen.' On Sunday, the Costa Rican Red Cross received a 9-1-1 alert about a water incident at Playa Grande, Cahuita, Limon. In response, three ambulances were sent to the scene, as per Us Weekly. Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department told Us Weekly that their preliminary investigation indicated Warner 'appeared to have entered the sea and was apparently swept away by a current.' Warner had been in Costa Rica since July 13. Warner was best known for his iconic role as Theodore Huxtable, the only son of Cliff Huxtable, on the beloved NBC sitcom The Cosby Show. The actor, best known for his role as Theodore Huxtable on the beloved NBC sitcom, appeared in all eight seasons from 1984 to 1992 (seen in 2006) He appeared in all eight seasons from 1984 to 1992, earning widespread acclaim and becoming a household name. At the time, Warner was just a teenager, but his performance earned widespread acclaim, including a nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series at the 1986 Primetime Emmy Awards. His character, Theo, was based on Bill Cosbys real-life son, Ennis Cosby, and was portrayed with depth and sensitivity. In the show, Theo is diagnosed with dyslexia after struggling academically during his freshman year at New York Universityan arc that resonated with many viewers. Beyond The Cosby Show, Warner carved out a successful and diverse career in both comedy and drama. He starred as Malcolm McGee in the UPN sitcom Malcolm & Eddie (19962000) opposite Eddie Griffin, and later headlined BETs Reed Between the Lines from 2011 to 2015 as Dr. Alex Reed. His television credits also included recurring roles and guest appearances on shows like Sons of Anarchy, Jeremiah, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Community. Warner also voiced the Producer character on the educational childrens series The Magic School Bus. Inter Alia, Lyttelton, National Theatre, London Rating: Has lightning struck twice? Rosamund Pike was sensational on Wednesday night as a High Court judge in a new play at the National Theatre by Australian writer Suzie Miller the woman who wrote that other hit play about the law, Prima Facie, starring a similarly sensational Jodie Comer in 2022. Intriguingly, Inter Alia is a mirror image of Prima Facie. Where Comer was Tessa Ensler, a have-it-all barrister defending rape suspects, Pike is Jessica Wheatley, a High Court judge trying and sentencing the same. Both plays have Latin titles and run for 100 minutes without an interval. Both are directed by Justin Martin and designed by Miriam Buether. And both turn the tables on their heroines to create devastating moral dilemmas. The difference is that, unlike Prima Facie, Inter Alia isn't entirely a monologue. We first encounter Pike as a clever, light-touch judge, feminising an alpha-male profession with her 'soft skills'. Rosamund Pike (pictured) is sensational as a High Court judge in a new play Inter Alia at the Lyttelton, National Theatre, London Then we discover her at home as a crusading super-mum: marinating veg, sorting laundry and doing the ironing all before heading back to court and 'the manosphere'. Pike's Jessica is a force of nature, going out on karaoke nights with girlfriend barristers. But like every good middle-class mother she's also riven with guilt about not being good enough. And although her supportive husband Michael (Jamie Glover) is a sensitive yet adventurous lover, the god of her idolatry is her son Harry (Jasper Talbot). And it's because of Harry that her seemingly perfect life falls apart, despite best-practice parenting, including warning him about social media and online porn. It's reminiscent of Netflix's smash hit Adolescence, so no prizes for guessing why the wheels come off Jessica's dream. The fact that we can see it coming a mile off simply adds to the sense of dread in Martin's helter-skelter production. The only thing that rankled with me is the play's presumption that we are enchanted by Jessica's middle-class values and 'parenting style'. The work is by the same Australian writer, Suzie Miller, who created the award winning Prima Facie starring Jodie Comer (pictured) Even so, Inter Alia whose title means 'among other things' plays out like a Greek tragedy. Both the male characters are reduced to benign stereotypes. Michael is a basically good, if corner-cutting husband. And Harry is a basically good, if desperate-to-fit-in son. But Pike... she blazes alone: multitasking in the kitchen and in her judge's chambers, walking a mental tightrope and talking us through her 360-degree collapse. Increasingly uncomfortable to watch, just like Prima Facie it will keep the chattering classes chattering long into the night. For the first time since the pandemic more than half of Fortune 100 employees must be present in the office five days a week. It is a decisive repositioning with only 5 percent forced into a total return to the office just two years ago in 2023. Now 54 percent of staff working for Fortune 100 companies - the biggest companies in America - are fully in-office and 41 percent are flexible. Larger companies are leading the charge, with smaller operations still favoring flexible work, new data has revealed. Starbucks has been among the recent household names that have demanded its corporate workers return to its Seattle headquarters for at least four days a week. Google and Amazon have also pushed their employees to come back to in-person work, citing alleged productivity benefits. Corporate real estate remains a tale of two markets with high end rents in Miami, New York City and San Francisco at record highs, according to the report. However, office vacancies across the country continue to persist at more than 22 percent. Starbucks' CEO, Brian Niccol, said the company's expanded return-to-office mandate 'helps us build and strengthen our culture' The amount of office space available has fallen by 700,000 square feet in the last quarter alone, the report from commercial real estate and investment management company Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) revealed. The dramatic drop indicates the effect of demolitions and the growing number of office buildings that have been converted into apartment blocks. The largest companies can afford to pay for slick buildings with luxury amenities to lure their workers back. Smaller companies, on the other hand, are less inclined to pay rents for an older building their staff are reluctant to visit. Other than the biggest companies in the country, most firms are actually maintaining their flexible working policies. Some 51 percent of employees with remote-capable jobs were working hybrid in 2025, down slightly from 52 percent in 2023, according to recent data from Gallup Poll. The story looks similar for those working completely remotely, with 28 percent working exclusively at home now compared to 29 percent in 2023. Experts argue that the biggest companies in America are pushing for workers to return to the office even if they lose talent because they can afford to do so. Gen Z are the most enthusiastic about office attendance, according to a recent survey Google is forcing some remote workers to return to the office for at least three days a week (Pictured: Google's corporate headquarters in California) 'Amazon can lose 1,000 talented IT workers with no problem,' Mark Ma, associate professor of business administration at the University of Pittsburgh, told Fortune. 'There is still a lineup of young college graduates from maybe Carnegie Mellon or other excellent universities who still want to work for Amazon because that's the Magnificent Seven,' he explained. 'But the smaller firms, it is harder for them to do it because once they lose some important employees, maybe no one else in their firm can do the job.' It comes as separate data from JLL revealed that Gen Z, who have been characterized by many as work shy, are actually the most eager to get back into the office. Those born between 1997 and 2012 attend the office 3.1 days a week, compared to older age groups who show up between 2.5 and 2.7 days a week, a survey from the company found. Many Gen Z employees have only known remote or hybrid work, having entered the workforce during or after the pandemic. Delta Air Lines is under fire from lawmakers who say the carrier's new AI ticket-pricing plans could mean higher fares for ordinary Americans already buckling under rising costs. America's second-largest US airline by daily flights says it's expanding a pilot program that uses computers to help set fares. By the end of the year, 20 percent of all fares will be set AI in partnership with Fetcherr, a pricing company. Democratic senators Ruben Gallego, Mark Warner and Richard Blumenthal fired off a letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian demanding to know if its AI tools are designed to hike fares up to each passenger's personal 'pain point.' A Delta exec previously boasted the system can predict 'the amount people are willing to pay for the premium products related to the base fares,' sparking fears of a digital price squeeze. Delta insists it isnt using personal data to target individual passengers, saying dynamic pricing has been standard for decades and that all customers see the same fares and offers in all retail channels. The airline says AI is only being tested to forecast demand, factor in thousands of market variables in real time, and speed up manual pricing adjustments. Its not the first AI pricing storm to hit the airline industry. Back in January, Blumenthal and other lawmakers grilled Frontier and Spirit over alleged seat fee manipulation, but the low-cost carriers never answered. Delta said it is using AI tools to figure out how much each customer is willing to pay to get on their flights 'This is a full reengineering of how we price and how we will be pricing in the future,' Glen Hauenstein, Delta's president, said during a June 10 earnings call. 'We like it a lot, and we're continuing to roll it out.' Consumer advocates are warning that the program could be 'predatory' for consumers and could spell the end of 'fair' pricing. If the tech lands smoothly, Delta says it could eventually hand over nearly all pricing decisions to its new digital co-pilot. Hauenstein said the AI is still in a 'heavy testing phase,' and reiterated the company will not rush the program out to its customers if issues arise. Airlines have long offered different prices for consumers, even for the same journey, based off factors including how far in advance they buy the ticket and whether they shop directly or with a comparison-shopping site. But AI is now supercharging changes to pricing models. 'AI isn't just optimizing business operations, but fundamentally rewriting the rules of commerce and consumer experience,' Matt Britton, author of Generation AI, told Fortune. 'For consumers, this means the era of 'fair' pricing is over. The price you see is the price the algorithm thinks you'll accept, not a universal rate.' The AI announcement comes as Delta made some major news about its profits forecast. Delta's CEO, Ed Bastian, said customers cut back on domestic economy seats amid economic uncertainty In April, the company pulled its financial guidance, saying the American economy was going through too much turmoil to determine how much money the company would make. Ed Bastian, the company's CEO, said consumer confidence 'certainly took a big dip in the early part of the year and then again in April, after the Liberation Day announcements were made.' But now the company has reinstated its profit guidance after it beat Wall Street's expectations for the second quarter of the year. Still, the company is facing some customer headwinds. Delta said that domestic economy seat sales fell 5 percent in the previous quarter. It will cut some domestic flights from the schedule in August. A Walmart employee was stunned to see the price of shrimp double overnight. When the worker shared a photo on Reddit showing a jump from $4.98 to $9.99 it quickly went viral. Commenters dubbed it a case of 'shrimpflation,' blaming recent tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. 'I don't really get into politics but I know whatever is going on is screwed up,' the South Carolina-based worker wrote. Several shoppers claimed tariffs and 'corporate greed' were the key players behind the unbelievable price rise. Others claimed the cost rose because it's the 'start of shrimp season,' and that the price tag has not risen in all of the chain's 10,000+ stores. Price fears were highly talked about for months after Walmart CEO Doug McMillon sounded the alarm on grocery prices last year. Things got worse in the months to follow, and employees went viral for leaking photos of price changes after tariffs forced Walmart to raise product costs. A South Carolina Walmart employee discovered prices for a shrimp and sauce product jumped 100% Several commenters claimed Walmart's 'corporate greed' was a reason behind the price hike Walmart and Target executives had issued a tariff warning a month before the price hikes became a reality. 'We had a productive meeting with President Trump and his team and appreciated the opportunity to share our insights,' Walmart said of the meeting. The meeting may not have been as useful in the eyes of shoppers who caught a peek of the dreaded price hikes in May. Employees in a string of Reddit posts showed the cost of popular items jumped as much as 80%. Some of the employees' photos included a $3.44 can of Great Value cocoa powder that rose to $6.18 and a $49.97 Hasbro-brand baby doll that used to cost $34.97. The warnings grew drastically last month, and some employees claimed over 15,000 items were repriced in a single store. Workers who aren't thrilled about the price changes may have been the lucky ones since tariffs were a factor in Walmart's decision to slash 1,500 US jobs. Customers have since threatened to boycott the company over the price increases, leaving Reddit users to suggest visiting other stores. Employees and shoppers have been stunned by new product prices over the last few month Target was amongst the top Walmart substitutes in the eyes of employees and shoppers. However, its staff members are just as fearful as those employed at Walmart. Chaos erupted in May after a Target employee posted a photo of a $17.99 USB-C cord that used to be $9.99. 'It's happening,' the worker wrote about the 80% growth. More and more Target employees have since blown the whistle on other products, and claimed that 'everything's going up.' Other chains that fell victim to tariffs include Macy's and Chinese online retail brands Shein and Temu. DailyMail.com has reached out to Walmart for comment about the product. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC lowered its holdings in Amentum Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AMTM Free Report) by 13.9% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 80,559 shares of the companys stock after selling 12,963 shares during the period. Crestwood Advisors Group LLCs holdings in Amentum were worth $1,466,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Principal Financial Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Amentum by 18.3% in the first quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 712,172 shares of the companys stock valued at $12,962,000 after purchasing an additional 110,123 shares during the period. Amalgamated Bank boosted its stake in Amentum by 12.3% during the 1st quarter. Amalgamated Bank now owns 43,366 shares of the companys stock valued at $789,000 after acquiring an additional 4,756 shares during the last quarter. KBC Group NV boosted its stake in Amentum by 14.3% during the 1st quarter. KBC Group NV now owns 7,339 shares of the companys stock valued at $134,000 after acquiring an additional 918 shares during the last quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC bought a new position in Amentum during the 1st quarter valued at $615,000. Finally, New York State Teachers Retirement System boosted its stake in Amentum by 11.6% during the 1st quarter. New York State Teachers Retirement System now owns 138,486 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,520,000 after acquiring an additional 14,364 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 39.93% of the companys stock. Get Amentum alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms have recently issued reports on AMTM. Citizens Jmp started coverage on shares of Amentum in a research report on Monday, May 12th. They issued an outperform rating and a $30.00 price target on the stock. Bank of America started coverage on shares of Amentum in a research report on Tuesday, June 10th. They issued a neutral rating and a $24.00 price objective on the stock. Truist Financial cut their price objective on shares of Amentum from $31.00 to $24.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 14th. BTIG Research initiated coverage on shares of Amentum in a research report on Tuesday, April 15th. They issued a buy rating and a $30.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on shares of Amentum in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. They set an underweight rating and a $19.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Amentum currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $25.22. Amentum Stock Up 0.9% Shares of AMTM opened at $24.96 on Wednesday. Amentum Holdings, Inc. has a one year low of $16.01 and a one year high of $34.47. The company has a 50-day moving average of $22.66 and a two-hundred day moving average of $21.00. The company has a current ratio of 1.56, a quick ratio of 1.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.01. Amentum (NYSE:AMTM Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 6th. The company reported $0.53 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.48 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $3.49 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.44 billion. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Amentum Holdings, Inc. will post 2.1 earnings per share for the current year. Amentum Profile (Free Report) Amentum Holdings, Inc provides engineering and technology solutions to address challenges in science, security, and sustainability. It serves various markets, such as energy and environment, space, intelligence, defense, civilian, commercial, and international markets. The company was incorporated in 2010 and is headquatered in Chantilly, Virginia. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AMTM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Amentum Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AMTM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Amentum Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Amentum and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Richardson Financial Services Inc. lessened its stake in shares of American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) by 21.5% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 219 shares of the payment services companys stock after selling 60 shares during the period. Richardson Financial Services Inc.s holdings in American Express were worth $59,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Brighton Jones LLC grew its stake in shares of American Express by 24.4% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 6,481 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $1,924,000 after buying an additional 1,273 shares during the period. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG grew its stake in shares of American Express by 24.9% in the 4th quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG now owns 2,633 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $781,000 after buying an additional 525 shares during the period. GHE LLC grew its stake in shares of American Express by 2.7% in the 4th quarter. GHE LLC now owns 17,021 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $5,052,000 after buying an additional 447 shares during the period. Hillsdale Investment Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of American Express in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $68,000. Finally, Haverford Trust Co boosted its position in shares of American Express by 3.3% during the 4th quarter. Haverford Trust Co now owns 18,119 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $5,378,000 after purchasing an additional 572 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.33% of the companys stock. Get American Express alerts: American Express Stock Up 0.6% Shares of NYSE:AXP opened at $304.65 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $213.43 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.38, a PEG ratio of 1.62 and a beta of 1.25. American Express Company has a fifty-two week low of $220.43 and a fifty-two week high of $329.14. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $304.19 and its 200-day simple moving average is $291.04. The company has a quick ratio of 1.69, a current ratio of 1.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80. American Express Announces Dividend American Express ( NYSE:AXP Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 18th. The payment services company reported $4.08 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.86 by $0.22. The firm had revenue of $17.86 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.70 billion. American Express had a net margin of 14.78% and a return on equity of 32.87%. The firms revenue was up 9.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $3.49 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that American Express Company will post 15.33 earnings per share for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be given a $0.82 dividend. This represents a $3.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.08%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, July 3rd. American Expresss dividend payout ratio is presently 23.02%. Insider Buying and Selling In other news, insider Glenda G. Mcneal sold 3,019 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $264.66, for a total value of $799,008.54. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 10,919 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,889,822.54. The trade was a 21.66% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Howard Grosfield sold 9,450 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.50, for a total transaction of $2,603,475.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 9,402 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,590,251. This represents a 50.13% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.20% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating on shares of American Express in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Wells Fargo & Company set a $327.00 price objective on shares of American Express in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Redburn Atlantic upgraded shares of American Express from a sell rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price objective for the company from $270.00 to $255.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of American Express from $260.00 to $342.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, July 11th. Finally, Citigroup restated a neutral rating and issued a $327.00 price objective (up from $300.00) on shares of American Express in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, sixteen have assigned a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, American Express currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $311.05. Read Our Latest Research Report on AXP About American Express (Free Report) American Express Company, together with its subsidiaries, operates as integrated payments company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean, and Internationally. It operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AXP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for American Express Company (NYSE:AXP Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for American Express Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Express and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ProAssurance Corporation (NYSE:PRA Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus rating of Reduce from the five brokerages that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation and four have given a hold recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $21.50. A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen assumed coverage on ProAssurance in a research report on Monday, May 19th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on ProAssurance from $18.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, May 8th. Raymond James Financial cut ProAssurance from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 10th. Citigroup cut ProAssurance to a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 3rd. Finally, Citizens Jmp cut ProAssurance from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 3rd. Get ProAssurance alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on PRA ProAssurance Stock Down 0.3% Shares of NYSE:PRA opened at $23.78 on Wednesday. ProAssurance has a 52-week low of $11.25 and a 52-week high of $23.95. The stock has a market cap of $1.21 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.99 and a beta of 0.12. The businesss 50 day moving average is $23.23 and its 200 day moving average is $20.19. The company has a quick ratio of 0.26, a current ratio of 0.26 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. ProAssurance (NYSE:PRA Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 6th. The insurance provider reported $0.13 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.19 by ($0.06). The firm had revenue of $236.28 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $272.85 million. ProAssurance had a return on equity of 4.51% and a net margin of 3.72%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 4.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.08 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that ProAssurance will post 0.8 EPS for the current year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On ProAssurance Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. State of Alaska Department of Revenue boosted its holdings in ProAssurance by 7.8% in the 2nd quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 30,552 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $697,000 after buying an additional 2,207 shares during the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its holdings in shares of ProAssurance by 50.7% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 3,123 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $71,000 after purchasing an additional 1,050 shares during the last quarter. Ellsworth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of ProAssurance during the 1st quarter worth approximately $955,000. Acadian Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of ProAssurance during the 1st quarter worth approximately $237,000. Finally, Jane Street Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of ProAssurance by 70.0% during the 1st quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 72,944 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,703,000 after purchasing an additional 30,028 shares during the last quarter. 85.58% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. ProAssurance Company Profile (Get Free Report ProAssurance Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides property and casualty insurance, and reinsurance products in the United States. The company operates through Specialty Property and Casualty, Workers Compensation Insurance, and Segregated Portfolio Cell Reinsurance segments. It offers professional liability insurance to healthcare providers and institutions, and attorneys and their firms; medical technology liability insurance to medical technology and life sciences companies; and custom alternative risk solutions, including assumed reinsurance, loss portfolio transfers, and captive cell programs for healthcare professional liability insureds. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for ProAssurance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ProAssurance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. City National Bank of Florida MSD boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 12.7% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 914 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 103 shares during the period. Eli Lilly and Company comprises approximately 0.7% of City National Bank of Florida MSDs holdings, making the stock its 25th largest holding. City National Bank of Florida MSDs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $755,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Egerton Capital UK LLP lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 75.4% in the first quarter. Egerton Capital UK LLP now owns 492,808 shares of the companys stock worth $407,015,000 after purchasing an additional 211,827 shares during the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 7.0% during the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 4,717 shares of the companys stock worth $3,896,000 after buying an additional 309 shares during the period. Advisors Preferred LLC purchased a new position in Eli Lilly and Company in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,738,000. Richardson Financial Services Inc. raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 13.3% in the first quarter. Richardson Financial Services Inc. now owns 376 shares of the companys stock worth $311,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Close Asset Management Ltd boosted its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 42.5% during the first quarter. Close Asset Management Ltd now owns 58,966 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,682,000 after acquiring an additional 17,586 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research analysts have commented on the stock. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, June 28th. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, May 2nd. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Hsbc Global Res cut shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Guggenheim boosted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $936.00 to $942.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, July 11th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and sixteen have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $1,012.56. Eli Lilly and Company Trading Up 1.9% Shares of LLY opened at $776.47 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $735.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 63.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.10 and a beta of 0.40. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.06. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $767.03 and a 200-day simple moving average of $800.17. Eli Lilly and Company has a 1-year low of $677.09 and a 1-year high of $972.53. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $3.34 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.64 by ($1.30). Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 22.67% and a return on equity of 85.51%. The business had revenue of $12.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.77 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.58 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 45.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current fiscal year. Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a $1.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.77%. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio is currently 48.82%. Eli Lilly and Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. (OTCMKTS:CIBEY Get Free Report) issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday. The company reported $0.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, Zacks reports. The business had revenue of $559.01 million for the quarter. Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. Stock Performance OTCMKTS CIBEY opened at $1.80 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $1.63 and a 200 day moving average of $1.51. Commercial International Bank has a 1 year low of $1.35 and a 1 year high of $1.84. Get Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. alerts: About Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. (Get Free Report) Further Reading Commercial International Bank (Egypt) SAE. provides financial products and services in Egypt. The company operates in four segments: Corporate Banking, Investment, Retail Banking, and Assets and Liabilities Management. It offers current and saving accounts, business accounts, time deposits, and certificates of deposit; car, personal, travel, solar, education, and overdraft loans; fund investment management; mortgages services; and insurance products. Receive News & Ratings for Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Commercial International Bank (Egypt) S.A.E. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC increased its stake in Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE:CARR Free Report) by 7.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 16,929 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,219 shares during the quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLCs holdings in Carrier Global were worth $1,073,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Carrier Global by 2.5% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 17,357,770 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,181,300,000 after buying an additional 420,081 shares during the period. Brown Advisory Inc. lifted its position in shares of Carrier Global by 82.6% in the 1st quarter. Brown Advisory Inc. now owns 9,673,979 shares of the companys stock worth $613,330,000 after purchasing an additional 4,377,402 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in shares of Carrier Global by 16.7% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 8,847,377 shares of the companys stock worth $603,922,000 after purchasing an additional 1,266,137 shares during the period. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Carrier Global during the 4th quarter worth approximately $588,029,000. Finally, UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC raised its stake in shares of Carrier Global by 15.6% during the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 6,930,061 shares of the companys stock worth $473,046,000 after acquiring an additional 936,892 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.00% of the companys stock. Get Carrier Global alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Carrier Global In related news, Director Maximilian Viessmann sold 4,267,425 shares of Carrier Global stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.30, for a total value of $299,999,977.50. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 54,341,534 shares in the company, valued at $3,820,209,840.20. This trade represents a 7.28% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Company insiders own 7.20% of the companys stock. Carrier Global Price Performance Shares of NYSE CARR opened at $76.50 on Wednesday. Carrier Global Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $54.22 and a fifty-two week high of $83.32. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $73.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is $67.87. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.78. The stock has a market cap of $65.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.84, a P/E/G ratio of 2.07 and a beta of 1.31. Carrier Global (NYSE:CARR Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $0.65 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.58 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $5.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.17 billion. Carrier Global had a return on equity of 18.10% and a net margin of 25.45%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 3.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.51 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Carrier Global Corporation will post 2.99 EPS for the current year. Carrier Global Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Monday, July 21st will be paid a $0.225 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, July 21st. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.18%. Carrier Globals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 13.93%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Robert W. Baird cut their price objective on shares of Carrier Global from $88.00 to $85.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Carrier Global from $65.00 to $75.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, May 5th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $79.00 target price on shares of Carrier Global in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on shares of Carrier Global from $86.00 to $87.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 20th. Finally, Melius Research raised Carrier Global to a hold rating and set a $90.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, July 1st. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Carrier Global presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $84.65. View Our Latest Research Report on CARR Carrier Global Company Profile (Free Report) Carrier Global Corporation provides heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security, and building automation technologies in the United States, Europe, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. It operates through three segments: HVAC, Refrigeration, and Fire & Security. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Carrier Global Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Carrier Global and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Profitability This table compares Hugoton Royalty Trust and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Hugoton Royalty Trust N/A N/A N/A Hugoton Royalty Trust Competitors 57.69% 1,199.90% 167.41% Risk and Volatility Hugoton Royalty Trust has a beta of -0.73, indicating that its stock price is 173% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Hugoton Royalty Trusts competitors have a beta of 0.32, indicating that their average stock price is 68% less volatile than the S&P 500. Get Hugoton Royalty Trust alerts: Institutional & Insider Ownership 17.0% of Hugoton Royalty Trust shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 30.4% of shares of all OIL US RYLTY TR companies are held by institutional investors. 5.0% of shares of all OIL US RYLTY TR companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Valuation and Earnings Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Hugoton Royalty Trust $11.53 million N/A 0.56 Hugoton Royalty Trust Competitors $82.48 million $18.27 million 28.14 This table compares Hugoton Royalty Trust and its competitors revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Hugoton Royalty Trusts competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Hugoton Royalty Trust. Hugoton Royalty Trust is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Summary Hugoton Royalty Trust competitors beat Hugoton Royalty Trust on 8 of the 8 factors compared. Hugoton Royalty Trust Company Profile (Get Free Report) Hugoton Royalty Trust operates as an express trust in the United States. It holds 80% net profits interests in various natural gas producing working interest properties in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming under conveyances. The company was founded in 1998 and is based in Dallas, Texas. Receive News & Ratings for Hugoton Royalty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hugoton Royalty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT Get Free Report) announced a jul 25 dividend on Monday, July 21st, RTT News reports. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 31st will be given a dividend of 0.0304 per share by the oil and gas company on Thursday, August 14th. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:CRT opened at $9.60 on Wednesday. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust has a 52-week low of $8.88 and a 52-week high of $13.31. The company has a market capitalization of $57.60 million, a PE ratio of 9.70 and a beta of 0.11. The company has a fifty day moving average of $9.91 and a 200-day moving average of $10.41. Get Cross Timbers Royalty Trust alerts: Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 14th. The oil and gas company reported $0.30 EPS for the quarter. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust had a net margin of 87.50% and a return on equity of 243.41%. About Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Cross Timbers Royalty Trust operates as an express trust in the United States. It holds 90% net profits interests in certain producing and nonproducing royalty and overriding royalty interest properties in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico; and 75% net profits working interest in four properties in Texas and three properties in Oklahoma. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cross Timbers Royalty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH increased its holdings in Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL Free Report) by 141.5% during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 9,387 shares of the technology companys stock after buying an additional 5,500 shares during the period. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OHs holdings in Dell Technologies were worth $856,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Dell Technologies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $455,029,000. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in Dell Technologies by 10.5% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 27,960,560 shares of the technology companys stock worth $3,222,175,000 after purchasing an additional 2,662,407 shares in the last quarter. Michael & Susan Dell Foundation purchased a new stake in Dell Technologies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $265,052,000. Janus Henderson Group PLC boosted its position in Dell Technologies by 160.5% in the 4th quarter. Janus Henderson Group PLC now owns 3,027,066 shares of the technology companys stock worth $348,814,000 after purchasing an additional 1,865,013 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its position in Dell Technologies by 224.4% in the 4th quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 1,564,196 shares of the technology companys stock worth $180,257,000 after purchasing an additional 1,082,087 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.37% of the companys stock. Get Dell Technologies alerts: Dell Technologies Stock Performance NYSE DELL opened at $124.48 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $117.32 and a 200 day moving average price of $105.85. Dell Technologies Inc. has a one year low of $66.25 and a one year high of $147.66. The company has a market cap of $84.50 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.85, a P/E/G ratio of 1.05 and a beta of 1.02. Dell Technologies Dividend Announcement Dell Technologies ( NYSE:DELL Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 29th. The technology company reported $1.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.68 by ($0.13). Dell Technologies had a negative return on equity of 226.48% and a net margin of 4.63%. The company had revenue of $23.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $23.17 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.27 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 1st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, July 22nd will be paid a $0.525 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, July 22nd. This represents a $2.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.69%. Dell Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 33.49%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research firms have commented on DELL. TD Cowen upped their price objective on Dell Technologies from $120.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. Barclays increased their target price on Dell Technologies from $116.00 to $123.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. Raymond James Financial increased their target price on Dell Technologies from $144.00 to $150.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. Mizuho increased their target price on Dell Technologies from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, May 19th. Finally, KeyCorp started coverage on Dell Technologies in a research report on Thursday, June 26th. They set a sector weight rating on the stock. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and sixteen have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $140.06. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Dell Technologies Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Director Iv (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 600,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, July 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $127.56, for a total value of $76,536,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 980,295 shares of the companys stock, valued at $125,046,430.20. This represents a 37.97% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO Michael S. Dell sold 10,000,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, June 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $122.27, for a total transaction of $1,222,700,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 25,912,241 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,168,289,707.07. This trade represents a 27.85% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 12,917,063 shares of company stock worth $1,573,509,812. 42.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About Dell Technologies (Free Report) Dell Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, markets, sells, and supports various comprehensive and integrated solutions, products, and services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) and Client Solutions Group (CSG). Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DELL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Dell Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dell Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR Get Free Report) is projected to release its Q2 2025 earnings data after the market closes on Thursday, July 24th. Analysts expect Digital Realty Trust to post earnings of $1.73 per share and revenue of $1.44 billion for the quarter. Digital Realty Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 7.050-7.150 EPS. Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.77 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.73 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $1.41 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.43 billion. Digital Realty Trust had a net margin of 7.65% and a return on equity of 2.07%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.67 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect Digital Realty Trust to post $7 EPS for the current fiscal year and $8 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Digital Realty Trust alerts: Digital Realty Trust Stock Performance Shares of DLR stock opened at $179.45 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.92, a quick ratio of 1.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81. Digital Realty Trust has a 12 month low of $129.95 and a 12 month high of $198.00. The company has a market cap of $60.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 167.71, a PEG ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 0.95. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $172.44 and a 200 day moving average price of $163.85. Digital Realty Trust Dividend Announcement Insider Transactions at Digital Realty Trust The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 13th were given a $1.22 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 13th. This represents a $4.88 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.72%. Digital Realty Trusts dividend payout ratio is presently 456.07%. In other Digital Realty Trust news, Director Mark R. Patterson sold 175 shares of Digital Realty Trust stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $176.50, for a total transaction of $30,887.50. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 6,522 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,151,133. The trade was a 2.61% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Company insiders own 0.17% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Digital Realty Trust A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Digital Realty Trust stock. Empowered Funds LLC raised its holdings in Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:DLR Free Report) by 9.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 6,784 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 584 shares during the quarter. Empowered Funds LLCs holdings in Digital Realty Trust were worth $972,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.71% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes DLR has been the topic of a number of research reports. Mizuho boosted their target price on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $177.00 to $191.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, June 17th. New Street Research upgraded shares of Digital Realty Trust to a hold rating in a report on Monday, April 28th. Bank of America started coverage on shares of Digital Realty Trust in a research report on Monday, May 19th. They issued a buy rating and a $210.00 target price for the company. Citigroup cut their target price on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $188.00 to $174.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a $193.00 target price (up previously from $190.00) on shares of Digital Realty Trust in a research report on Friday, April 25th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $187.16. Get Our Latest Research Report on Digital Realty Trust About Digital Realty Trust (Get Free Report) Digital Realty Trust, Inc operates as a real estate investment trust, which engages in the provision of data center, colocation and interconnection solutions. It serves the following industries: artificial intelligence (AI), networks, cloud, digital media, mobile, financial services, healthcare, and gaming. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Digital Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Digital Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PETROTEQ ENERGY (OTCMKTS:PQEFF Get Free Report) and DT Midstream (NYSE:DTM Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends and risk. Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for PETROTEQ ENERGY and DT Midstream, as provided by MarketBeat. Get PETROTEQ ENERGY alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score PETROTEQ ENERGY 0 0 0 0 0.00 DT Midstream 2 3 6 0 2.36 DT Midstream has a consensus price target of $109.27, indicating a potential upside of 9.72%. Given DT Midstreams stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe DT Midstream is more favorable than PETROTEQ ENERGY. Earnings and Valuation Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio PETROTEQ ENERGY N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A DT Midstream $981.00 million 10.31 $354.00 million $3.67 27.14 This table compares PETROTEQ ENERGY and DT Midstreams gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation. DT Midstream has higher revenue and earnings than PETROTEQ ENERGY. Insider & Institutional Ownership 0.0% of PETROTEQ ENERGY shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 81.5% of DT Midstream shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.9% of PETROTEQ ENERGY shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.3% of DT Midstream shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Profitability This table compares PETROTEQ ENERGY and DT Midstreams net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets PETROTEQ ENERGY N/A N/A N/A DT Midstream 34.96% 8.46% 4.12% Risk & Volatility PETROTEQ ENERGY has a beta of 216.11, indicating that its stock price is 21,511% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, DT Midstream has a beta of 0.78, indicating that its stock price is 22% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary DT Midstream beats PETROTEQ ENERGY on 8 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks. About PETROTEQ ENERGY (Get Free Report) Petroteq Energy Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the oil sands mining and processing operations in the United States. It holds rights to mine, extract, and produce oil and associated hydrocarbons and minerals from oil sands containing heavy oil and bitumen under mineral leases covering approximately 1,671,91 acres in the Asphalt Ridge area of Utah, including 320 acres held under the TMC Mineral Lease and an additional 1,351.91 acres held under three Temple Mountain State of Utah's School and Institutional Trust Land Administration Leases. The company also operates rights under five leases covering lands consisting of approximately 5,960 acres situated in Uintah, Wayne, and Garfield Counties, Utah. In addition, it is developing a blockchain-powered supply chain management platform for the oil and gas industry. The company was formerly known as MCW Energy Group Limited and changed its name to Petroteq Energy Inc. in May 2017. Petroteq Energy Inc. was founded in 2010 and is based in Sherman Oaks, California. About DT Midstream (Get Free Report) DT Midstream, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated natural gas services in the United States. The company operates through two segments, Pipeline and Gathering. The Pipeline segment owns and operates interstate and intrastate natural gas pipelines, storage systems, and natural gas gathering lateral pipelines. This segment also engages in the transportation and storage of natural gas for intermediate and end-user customers. The Gathering segment owns and operates gas gathering systems. This segment is involved in the collection of natural gas for delivery to plants for treating, to gathering pipelines for further gathering, or to pipelines for transportation; and provision of associated ancillary services, including compression, dehydration, gas treatment, water impoundment, water transportation, water disposal, and sand mining. It serves natural gas producers, local distribution companies, electric power generators, industrials, and national marketers. The company was incorporated in 2021 and is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. Receive News & Ratings for PETROTEQ ENERGY Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PETROTEQ ENERGY and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. W.G. Shaheen & Associates DBA Whitney & Co raised its holdings in Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW Free Report) by 3.4% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 166,675 shares of the medical research companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,454 shares during the period. Edwards Lifesciences comprises approximately 1.3% of W.G. Shaheen & Associates DBA Whitney & Cos holdings, making the stock its 26th largest holding. W.G. Shaheen & Associates DBA Whitney & Cos holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $12,081,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH increased its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 11.5% in the first quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 1,395,100 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $101,117,000 after buying an additional 143,841 shares during the period. Ignite Planners LLC bought a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences in the first quarter worth $2,226,000. Lindbrook Capital LLC grew its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 23.0% in the first quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 5,159 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $374,000 after purchasing an additional 963 shares in the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 0.7% in the first quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 132,817 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $9,626,000 after purchasing an additional 879 shares in the last quarter. Finally, J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 220.2% in the first quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 11,224 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $814,000 after purchasing an additional 7,719 shares in the last quarter. 79.46% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts: Edwards Lifesciences Trading Down 0.2% EW stock opened at $76.42 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $44.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.92, a PEG ratio of 3.84 and a beta of 1.11. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a twelve month low of $58.93 and a twelve month high of $88.28. The company has a quick ratio of 3.66, a current ratio of 4.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06. The business has a fifty day moving average of $76.50 and a 200-day moving average of $73.44. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Edwards Lifesciences ( NYSE:EW Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, April 23rd. The medical research company reported $0.64 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.60 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $1.41 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.40 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 16.62% and a net margin of 75.48%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 6.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.66 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current year. Several brokerages recently weighed in on EW. Wall Street Zen cut Edwards Lifesciences from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, May 16th. Evercore ISI raised their price target on Edwards Lifesciences from $73.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Robert W. Baird increased their price objective on Edwards Lifesciences from $72.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Canaccord Genuity Group raised their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $71.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Friday, April 25th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $75.00 to $81.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating, twelve have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $81.00. View Our Latest Report on EW Insider Activity at Edwards Lifesciences In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Donald E. Bobo, Jr. sold 2,570 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $77.40, for a total value of $198,918.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president directly owned 50,356 shares in the company, valued at $3,897,554.40. This represents a 4.86% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Larry L. Wood sold 8,950 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $75.23, for a total value of $673,308.50. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 206,900 shares of the companys stock, valued at $15,565,087. This trade represents a 4.15% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 30,848 shares of company stock valued at $2,314,488 over the last quarter. 0.34% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Edwards Lifesciences Company Profile (Free Report) Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Edwards Lifesciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Edwards Lifesciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Forbes J M & Co. LLP decreased its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report) by 12.3% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 9,484 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 1,326 shares during the quarter. Forbes J M & Co. LLPs holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $578,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Capital International Investors grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 7.5% in the 4th quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 45,866,624 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,593,940,000 after buying an additional 3,218,865 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 2.7% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 44,391,247 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,505,967,000 after buying an additional 1,187,231 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $1,989,525,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 59.9% in the 4th quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 32,079,246 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,814,341,000 after buying an additional 12,011,983 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 8.6% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 26,865,073 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,638,501,000 after buying an additional 2,131,205 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.41% of the companys stock. Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated a neutral rating and set a $55.00 price target on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. Wall Street Zen lowered Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, June 6th. William Blair reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on Bristol Myers Squibb from $36.00 to $34.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, Piper Sandler started coverage on Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $65.00 price objective for the company. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have given a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $57.69. Insider Transactions at Bristol Myers Squibb In other news, EVP Samit Hirawat bought 4,250 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 25th. The shares were bought at an average price of $47.58 per share, for a total transaction of $202,215.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the executive vice president owned 83,513 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,973,548.54. This trade represents a 5.36% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 0.07% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Performance Shares of NYSE BMY opened at $48.06 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $47.47 and a 200 day moving average price of $52.89. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 52 week low of $41.90 and a 52 week high of $63.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.65, a quick ratio of 1.17 and a current ratio of 1.28. The stock has a market capitalization of $97.80 billion, a PE ratio of 18.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.44 and a beta of 0.36. Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.80 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.50 by $0.30. The firm had revenue of $11.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.77 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 87.62% and a net margin of 11.38%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 5.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted ($4.40) earnings per share. Analysts predict that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 3rd will be paid a $0.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 3rd. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.16%. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is 92.88%. Bristol Myers Squibb Profile (Free Report) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Garner Asset Management Corp cut its stake in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR Free Report) by 13.6% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,712 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 586 shares during the quarter. Garner Asset Management Corps holdings in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF were worth $388,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in IJR. Bank of America Corp DE grew its holdings in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 3.4% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 32,066,508 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,694,703,000 after acquiring an additional 1,052,941 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC grew its holdings in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 2.9% during the 4th quarter. FMR LLC now owns 22,780,536 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,624,773,000 after acquiring an additional 643,669 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 18,162,200 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,092,649,000 after purchasing an additional 394,713 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company MN lifted its position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 6.4% in the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 17,170,579 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,978,394,000 after purchasing an additional 1,028,818 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 9.6% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 9,344,933 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,076,723,000 after purchasing an additional 819,408 shares during the period. 66.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF alerts: iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Stock Up 1.1% iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF stock opened at $112.83 on Wednesday. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF has a 12-month low of $89.22 and a 12-month high of $128.61. The firms fifty day moving average is $108.49 and its 200 day moving average is $108.28. The company has a market capitalization of $82.16 billion, a PE ratio of 16.52 and a beta of 1.15. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Profile iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, formerly iShares S&P SmallCap 600 Index Fund, seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors SmallCap 600 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of publicly traded securities in the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IJR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Dividends Global Industrial pays an annual dividend of $1.04 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.8%. Global Industrial pays out 65.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Industrial Services companies pay a dividend yield of 1.3% and pay out 53.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Global Industrial has increased its dividend for 9 consecutive years. Volatility & Risk Global Industrial has a beta of 0.8, meaning that its stock price is 20% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Global Industrials rivals have a beta of 1.16, meaning that their average stock price is 16% more volatile than the S&P 500. Get Global Industrial alerts: Valuation and Earnings This table compares Global Industrial and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Global Industrial $1.32 billion $61.00 million 17.38 Global Industrial Competitors $9.76 billion $637.30 million 17.89 Profitability Global Industrials rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Global Industrial. Global Industrial is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. This table compares Global Industrial and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Global Industrial 4.67% 21.85% 11.47% Global Industrial Competitors -13.96% 10.84% 3.41% Insider & Institutional Ownership 31.2% of Global Industrial shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 57.2% of shares of all Industrial Services companies are held by institutional investors. 65.3% of Global Industrial shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 19.1% of shares of all Industrial Services companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Summary Global Industrial rivals beat Global Industrial on 6 of the 11 factors compared. About Global Industrial (Get Free Report) Global Industrial Company operates as an industrial distributor of various industrial and maintenance, repair, and operation (MRO) products in North America. It offers storage and shelving, safety and security, carts and trucks, HVAC and fans, furniture and decor, material handling, janitorial and facility maintenance, workbenches and shop desks, tools and instruments, plumbing and pumps, office and school supplies, packaging and shipping, lighting and electrical, foodservice and retail, medical and laboratory, motors and power transmission, building supplies, machining, fasteners and hardware, vehicle maintenance, and raw materials. The company offers industrial and MRO products under the Global, GlobalIndustrial.com, Nexel, Paramount, Interion, and Absocold trademarks. It serves businesses; state, local, and private educational organizations; and government entities through relationship marketers, e-commerce sites, signature campaigns, and catalogs. The company was formerly known as Systemax Inc. Global Industrial Company was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Port Washington, New York. Receive News & Ratings for Global Industrial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Global Industrial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM Get Free Report) is one of 33 publicly-traded companies in the AEROSP/DEFENSE industry, but how does it compare to its rivals? We will compare Howmet Aerospace to similar companies based on the strength of its risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, earnings, profitability, dividends and institutional ownership. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Howmet Aerospace and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Get Howmet Aerospace alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Howmet Aerospace 0 4 13 0 2.76 Howmet Aerospace Competitors 393 2146 3338 121 2.53 Howmet Aerospace currently has a consensus price target of $150.44, suggesting a potential downside of 18.04%. As a group, AEROSP/DEFENSE companies have a potential upside of 4.65%. Given Howmet Aerospaces rivals higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Howmet Aerospace has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals. Insider & Institutional Ownership Risk and Volatility 90.5% of Howmet Aerospace shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 53.5% of shares of all AEROSP/DEFENSE companies are held by institutional investors. 1.1% of Howmet Aerospace shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 10.4% of shares of all AEROSP/DEFENSE companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Howmet Aerospace has a beta of 1.43, indicating that its share price is 43% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Howmet Aerospaces rivals have a beta of 1.20, indicating that their average share price is 20% more volatile than the S&P 500. Profitability This table compares Howmet Aerospace and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Howmet Aerospace 16.64% 27.25% 11.48% Howmet Aerospace Competitors -410.20% -70.19% -13.98% Dividends Howmet Aerospace pays an annual dividend of $0.40 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.2%. Howmet Aerospace pays out 13.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, AEROSP/DEFENSE companies pay a dividend yield of 1.6% and pay out 39.1% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Howmet Aerospace has increased its dividend for 5 consecutive years. Valuation and Earnings This table compares Howmet Aerospace and its rivals revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Howmet Aerospace $7.43 billion $1.16 billion 59.79 Howmet Aerospace Competitors $18.93 billion $730.78 million 9.47 Howmet Aerospaces rivals have higher revenue, but lower earnings than Howmet Aerospace. Howmet Aerospace is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry. Summary Howmet Aerospace beats its rivals on 10 of the 15 factors compared. About Howmet Aerospace (Get Free Report) Howmet Aerospace Inc. provides advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries in the United States, Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Italy, Canada, Poland, China, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Engine Products, Fastening Systems, Engineered Structures, and Forged Wheels. The Engine Products segment offers airfoils and seamless rolled rings primarily for aircraft engines and industrial gas turbines; and rotating and structural parts. The Fastening Systems segment produces aerospace fastening systems, as well as commercial transportation, industrial, and other fasteners; and latches, bearings, fluid fittings, and installation tools. The Engineered Structures segment provides titanium ingots and mill products, aluminum and nickel forgings, and machined components and assemblies for aerospace and defense applications; and titanium forgings, extrusions, and forming and machining services for airframe, wing, aero-engine, and landing gear components. The Forged Wheels segment offers forged aluminum wheels and related products for heavy-duty trucks and commercial transportation markets. The company was formerly known as Arconic Inc. Howmet Aerospace Inc. was founded in 1888 and is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Receive News & Ratings for Howmet Aerospace Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Howmet Aerospace and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC lifted its holdings in Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE Free Report) by 9.3% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 12,530 shares of the utilities providers stock after buying an additional 1,065 shares during the quarter. HighPoint Advisor Group LLCs holdings in Sempra Energy were worth $944,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC grew its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 1.5% during the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 8,194 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $719,000 after buying an additional 124 shares during the period. MJP Associates Inc. ADV grew its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 2.1% in the 4th quarter. MJP Associates Inc. ADV now owns 6,195 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $543,000 after purchasing an additional 125 shares during the period. Legacy Financial Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 5.0% in the 4th quarter. Legacy Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 2,639 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $232,000 after purchasing an additional 126 shares during the period. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. grew its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 8,169 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $583,000 after purchasing an additional 133 shares during the period. Finally, Wesbanco Bank Inc. grew its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 5.1% in the 1st quarter. Wesbanco Bank Inc. now owns 3,212 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $229,000 after purchasing an additional 156 shares during the period. 89.65% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Sempra Energy alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades SRE has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and issued a $88.00 price target (up previously from $87.00) on shares of Sempra Energy in a research note on Wednesday, June 18th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on Sempra Energy from $77.00 to $75.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, April 15th. BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on Sempra Energy from $78.00 to $81.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, May 12th. Citigroup lowered their price objective on Sempra Energy from $93.00 to $70.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 9th. Finally, Barclays set a $71.00 price objective on Sempra Energy and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $80.75. Sempra Energy Stock Up 1.6% Shares of NYSE:SRE opened at $79.81 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $52.03 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.54, a PEG ratio of 2.11 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a quick ratio of 0.51, a current ratio of 0.57 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89. Sempra Energy has a 12-month low of $61.90 and a 12-month high of $95.77. The businesss 50 day moving average is $75.93 and its 200 day moving average is $75.89. Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 8th. The utilities provider reported $1.44 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.32 by $0.12. Sempra Energy had a return on equity of 8.55% and a net margin of 22.15%. The business had revenue of $3.80 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.90 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.34 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 4.5% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Sempra Energy will post 4.76 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Sempra Energy Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 26th were given a dividend of $0.645 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 26th. This represents a $2.58 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.23%. Sempra Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 56.70%. Insider Activity at Sempra Energy In related news, insider Diana L. Day sold 8,015 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.26, for a total transaction of $595,193.90. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 16,969 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,260,117.94. The trade was a 32.08% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.27% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Sempra Energy Company Profile (Free Report) Sempra operates as an energy infrastructure company in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Sempra California, Sempra Texas Utilities, and Sempra Infrastructure. The Sempra California segment provides electric services; and natural gas services to San Diego County. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SRE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Sempra Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sempra Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Burney Co. decreased its holdings in Iron Mountain Incorporated (NYSE:IRM Free Report) by 1.4% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 152,148 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 2,127 shares during the period. Burney Co. owned approximately 0.05% of Iron Mountain worth $13,091,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in IRM. Oak Thistle LLC lifted its position in shares of Iron Mountain by 189.2% during the 1st quarter. Oak Thistle LLC now owns 20,886 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,797,000 after purchasing an additional 13,665 shares during the last quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS lifted its position in shares of Iron Mountain by 1.7% during the 1st quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 98,916 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $8,577,000 after purchasing an additional 1,700 shares during the last quarter. B&I Capital AG purchased a new stake in Iron Mountain in the first quarter valued at $6,596,000. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd increased its stake in Iron Mountain by 73.8% in the first quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd now owns 47,980 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,128,000 after purchasing an additional 20,376 shares during the period. Finally, Allianz Asset Management GmbH increased its stake in shares of Iron Mountain by 12.6% during the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 55,250 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,754,000 after acquiring an additional 6,197 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.13% of the companys stock. Get Iron Mountain alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities analysts recently issued reports on IRM shares. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Iron Mountain from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 18th. Truist Financial began coverage on shares of Iron Mountain in a research note on Tuesday, April 8th. They set a buy rating and a $95.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Barclays increased their price target on shares of Iron Mountain from $118.00 to $121.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 27th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Iron Mountain presently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $121.71. Iron Mountain Price Performance NYSE IRM opened at $99.41 on Wednesday. Iron Mountain Incorporated has a 12 month low of $72.33 and a 12 month high of $130.24. The company has a market capitalization of $29.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 242.47 and a beta of 1.08. The companys fifty day moving average price is $100.03 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $95.52. Iron Mountain (NYSE:IRM Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The financial services provider reported $1.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.16 by $0.01. Iron Mountain had a net margin of 1.97% and a negative return on equity of 201.62%. The company had revenue of $1.59 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.59 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.10 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 7.9% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts anticipate that Iron Mountain Incorporated will post 4.54 EPS for the current year. Iron Mountain Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 3rd. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 16th were issued a dividend of $0.785 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. This represents a $3.14 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.16%. Iron Mountains dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 765.85%. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, CEO William L. Meaney sold 69,125 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $100.36, for a total value of $6,937,385.00. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director Walter C. Rakowich sold 900 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, June 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $99.97, for a total value of $89,973.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 36,515 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,650,404.55. This represents a 2.41% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 240,007 shares of company stock worth $23,649,959. Insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock. Iron Mountain Profile (Free Report) Iron Mountain Incorporated (NYSE: IRM) is a global leader in information management services. Founded in 1951 and trusted by more than 240,000 customers worldwide, Iron Mountain serves to protect and elevate the power of our customers work. Through a range of offerings including digital transformation, data centers, secure records storage, information management, asset lifecycle management, secure destruction and art storage and logistics, Iron Mountain helps businesses bring light to their dark data, enabling customers to unlock value and intelligence from their stored digital and physical assets at speed and with security, while helping them meet their environmental goals. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Iron Mountain Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Iron Mountain and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF (NYSEARCA:IGM Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $114.99 and last traded at $114.84, with a volume of 298381 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $114.60. iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF Stock Performance The firm has a market cap of $6.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.08 and a beta of 1.18. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $107.48 and a 200 day moving average price of $100.75. Get iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF during the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Larson Financial Group LLC lifted its position in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF by 581.0% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 286 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 244 shares during the period. Aptus Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. CX Institutional acquired a new stake in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF during the 1st quarter worth approximately $27,000. Finally, Creative Capital Management Investments LLC acquired a new stake in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $28,000. About iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF iShares North American Tech ETF, formerly iShares S&P North American Technology Sector Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, of the United States-traded technology companies, as represented by the S&P North American Technology Sector Index (the Index). Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. China's police chief meets Belarusian interior minister Xinhua) 13:19, July 23, 2025 China's State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong meets with Ivan Kubrakov, Interior Minister of Belarus, in Beijing, capital of China, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Ye) BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- China's State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong met with Ivan Kubrakov, Interior Minister of Belarus, in Beijing on Tuesday. Wang said that under the strategic guidance of the presidents of the two countries, China-Belarus relations have been growing soundly and steadily. Wang called on both sides, guided by the important consensus between the two heads of state, to deepen practical law enforcement and security cooperation in areas such as safeguarding political security and combating transnational organized crime. The two sides should also enhance security for projects of Belt and Road cooperation, and contribute more to the development of the China-Belarus all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership, Wang said. For his part, Kubrakov expressed Belarusian side's willingness to strengthen cooperation and jointly safeguard the security of both countries. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWF Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $436.69 and last traded at $436.84, with a volume of 89776 shares. The stock had previously closed at $434.26. iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Trading Down 0.6% The company has a market cap of $113.31 billion, a PE ratio of 33.43 and a beta of 1.08. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $411.02 and its 200-day simple moving average is $391.79. Get iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of IWF. Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 1.5% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 30,562,347 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $12,273,227,000 after purchasing an additional 456,535 shares during the last quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 722,329.3% during the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 17,851,227 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $7,579,274,000 after acquiring an additional 17,848,756 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 9,688,217 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,498,319,000 after acquiring an additional 68,243 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 5.2% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 7,116,045 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,857,662,000 after acquiring an additional 349,222 shares during the period. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 3.0% during the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,383,487 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,161,901,000 after acquiring an additional 157,559 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 75.33% of the companys stock. iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Company Profile iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment returns that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 1000 Growth Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of equity securities of Russell 1000 index issuers with relatively higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MCF Advisors LLC trimmed its holdings in Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI Free Report) by 42.8% in the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 357 shares of the communications equipment providers stock after selling 267 shares during the quarter. MCF Advisors LLCs holdings in Motorola Solutions were worth $156,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH raised its holdings in Motorola Solutions by 4.9% during the first quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 260,622 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $114,103,000 after purchasing an additional 12,234 shares in the last quarter. Hartford Funds Management Co LLC raised its holdings in Motorola Solutions by 12.9% during the first quarter. Hartford Funds Management Co LLC now owns 2,552 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $1,117,000 after purchasing an additional 292 shares in the last quarter. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC raised its holdings in Motorola Solutions by 3.3% during the first quarter. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC now owns 8,281 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $3,609,000 after purchasing an additional 262 shares in the last quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC grew its position in Motorola Solutions by 3.9% during the first quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC now owns 4,467 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $1,956,000 after buying an additional 166 shares during the period. Finally, Gallacher Capital Management LLC grew its position in Motorola Solutions by 24.2% during the first quarter. Gallacher Capital Management LLC now owns 955 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $418,000 after buying an additional 186 shares during the period. 84.17% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Motorola Solutions alerts: Motorola Solutions Stock Up 0.1% MSI stock opened at $421.47 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $416.94 and its 200-day simple moving average is $430.26. The firm has a market capitalization of $70.35 billion, a PE ratio of 35.18, a P/E/G ratio of 3.62 and a beta of 0.95. Motorola Solutions, Inc. has a 12 month low of $385.17 and a 12 month high of $507.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.42, a current ratio of 1.20 and a quick ratio of 1.03. Motorola Solutions Announces Dividend Motorola Solutions ( NYSE:MSI Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The communications equipment provider reported $3.18 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.01 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $2.53 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.52 billion. Motorola Solutions had a net margin of 18.67% and a return on equity of 160.93%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $2.81 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Motorola Solutions, Inc. will post 13.55 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Investors of record on Friday, June 13th were paid a dividend of $1.09 per share. This represents a $4.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.03%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 13th. Motorola Solutionss payout ratio is 36.39%. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Motorola Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of Motorola Solutions from $570.00 to $515.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research report on Monday, July 7th. They set a peer perform rating on the stock. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, May 28th. Finally, Barclays lowered their target price on shares of Motorola Solutions from $527.00 to $511.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, May 5th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $510.67. Read Our Latest Analysis on MSI Insider Activity In related news, CAO Katherine A. Maher sold 1,073 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $418.68, for a total transaction of $449,243.64. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 804 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $336,618.72. This represents a 57.17% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders own 1.44% of the companys stock. Motorola Solutions Company Profile (Free Report) Motorola Solutions, Inc provides public safety and enterprise security solutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices and infrastructure, as well as the implementation and integration of systems, devices, software, and applications for government, public safety, and commercial customers who operate private communications networks and video security solutions, as well as manage a mobile workforce. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MSI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Motorola Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Motorola Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mount Lucas Management LP bought a new stake in Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund bought 7,080 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $1,402,000. Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Roundview Capital LLC grew its holdings in shares of Packaging Corporation of America by 25.1% in the first quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 1,606 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $318,000 after purchasing an additional 322 shares during the period. SYM FINANCIAL Corp raised its holdings in Packaging Corporation of America by 8.7% in the first quarter. SYM FINANCIAL Corp now owns 1,527 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $302,000 after acquiring an additional 122 shares in the last quarter. Oak Thistle LLC acquired a new stake in Packaging Corporation of America in the first quarter valued at approximately $1,203,000. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS increased its stake in Packaging Corporation of America by 8.0% in the first quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 44,630 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $8,882,000 after purchasing an additional 3,300 shares during the last quarter. Finally, VCI Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in Packaging Corporation of America in the first quarter valued at approximately $846,000. 89.78% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Packaging Corporation of America alerts: Packaging Corporation of America Trading Up 2.0% NYSE:PKG opened at $205.39 on Wednesday. Packaging Corporation of America has a 1 year low of $172.72 and a 1 year high of $250.82. The stock has a market cap of $18.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.48, a PEG ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 0.82. The business has a fifty day moving average of $195.07 and a 200-day moving average of $200.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a current ratio of 3.28. Packaging Corporation of America Dividend Announcement Packaging Corporation of America ( NYSE:PKG Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 22nd. The industrial products company reported $2.31 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.21 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $2.14 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.12 billion. Packaging Corporation of America had a return on equity of 20.08% and a net margin of 10.09%. Equities analysts predict that Packaging Corporation of America will post 10.44 earnings per share for the current year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Investors of record on Friday, June 13th were paid a $1.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 13th. This represents a $5.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.43%. Packaging Corporation of Americas payout ratio is 52.30%. Analyst Ratings Changes PKG has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Truist Financial lifted their price objective on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $237.00 to $239.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 17th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Packaging Corporation of America from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, April 6th. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded shares of Packaging Corporation of America from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their target price for the company from $245.00 to $205.00 in a research note on Monday, June 16th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $180.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, UBS Group boosted their target price on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $200.00 to $210.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Packaging Corporation of America currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $217.80. Get Our Latest Report on PKG Packaging Corporation of America Company Profile (Free Report) Packaging Corporation of America engages in the production of container products. It operates through the following segments: Packaging, Paper, and Corporate and Other. The Packaging segment offers a variety of corrugated packaging products, such as conventional shipping containers. The Paper segment manufactures and sells a range of papers, including communication-based papers, and pressure sensitive papers. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PKG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Packaging Corporation of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Packaging Corporation of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hydro One Limited (TSE:H Free Report) Equities research analysts at National Bank Financial issued their Q2 2025 earnings per share estimates for Hydro One in a report released on Monday, July 21st. National Bank Financial analyst P. Kenny anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of $0.53 for the quarter. The consensus estimate for Hydro Ones current full-year earnings is $2.06 per share. Get Hydro One alerts: A number of other research analysts also recently issued reports on H. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on Hydro One from C$46.00 to C$50.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Friday, May 9th. CIBC reduced their price objective on Hydro One from C$52.00 to C$51.00 in a report on Monday. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on Hydro One from C$46.00 to C$53.00 in a research note on Friday, May 9th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on Hydro One from C$47.00 to C$52.00 in a report on Friday, May 9th. Finally, Raymond James Financial dropped their price objective on shares of Hydro One from C$48.00 to C$45.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 17th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Hydro One presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$50.10. Hydro One Stock Performance Shares of H stock opened at C$48.86 on Wednesday. Hydro One has a 12 month low of C$41.06 and a 12 month high of C$53.98. The firm has a market capitalization of C$29.29 billion, a PE ratio of 25.76, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.17 and a beta of 0.34. The company has a current ratio of 0.58, a quick ratio of 0.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 140.53. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of C$49.38 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$48.10. Hydro One Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Investors of record on Monday, June 30th were given a dividend of $0.3331 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, June 11th. This is a positive change from Hydro Ones previous quarterly dividend of $0.31. This represents a $1.33 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.73%. Hydro Ones payout ratio is currently 66.44%. Hydro One Company Profile (Get Free Report) Hydro One operates regulated transmission and distribution assets in Ontario. The areas largest electricity provider serves nearly 1.5 million customers. Transmission accounts for roughly 60% of the companys rate base, with distribution accounting for the remainder. Hydro One operates a small telecom business, Acronym Solutions, with annual revenue contributing less than 1% to consolidated results. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Hydro One Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hydro One and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oak Thistle LLC grew its holdings in shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE Free Report) by 85.6% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 24,538 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 11,317 shares during the quarter. Oak Thistle LLCs holdings in Alexandria Real Estate Equities were worth $2,270,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. boosted its stake in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 6.0% in the 4th quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,119 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $207,000 after purchasing an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc. raised its position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 5.8% in the 4th quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc. now owns 2,300 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $224,000 after buying an additional 126 shares during the last quarter. Private Trust Co. NA raised its position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 19.2% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 925 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $86,000 after buying an additional 149 shares during the last quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC raised its position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 16.4% in the 1st quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,084 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $99,000 after buying an additional 153 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Investor s Fiduciary Advisor Network LLC raised its position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Investor s Fiduciary Advisor Network LLC now owns 4,941 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $457,000 after buying an additional 180 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 96.54% of the companys stock. Get Alexandria Real Estate Equities alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages recently issued reports on ARE. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their price objective on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $114.00 to $100.00 in a research note on Monday, May 12th. Wedbush decreased their price objective on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $104.00 to $76.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price objective on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $100.00 to $82.00 in a report on Friday, April 11th. BNP Paribas Exane decreased their price objective on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $111.00 to $85.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, April 29th. Finally, Baird R W decreased their price objective on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $129.00 to $102.00 in a report on Thursday, June 12th. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Alexandria Real Estate Equities currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $99.54. Alexandria Real Estate Equities Price Performance Shares of ARE stock opened at $80.66 on Wednesday. Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. has a 1-year low of $67.37 and a 1-year high of $125.63. The stocks 50-day moving average is $73.19 and its 200 day moving average is $84.88. The company has a market cap of $13.95 billion, a P/E ratio of -620.45, a PEG ratio of 6.60 and a beta of 1.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 0.22 and a quick ratio of 0.22. Alexandria Real Estate Equities (NYSE:ARE Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, July 21st. The real estate investment trust reported $2.33 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.29 by $0.04. Alexandria Real Estate Equities had a negative return on equity of 0.05% and a negative net margin of 0.33%. The company had revenue of $737.28 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $748.02 million. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.36 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was down .6% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts predict that Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. will post 9.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Alexandria Real Estate Equities Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 30th were paid a $1.32 dividend. This represents a $5.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.55%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 30th. Alexandria Real Estate Equitiess payout ratio is 694.74%. Alexandria Real Estate Equities Profile (Free Report) Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc (NYSE: ARE), an S&P 500 company, is a best-in-class, mission-driven life science REIT making a positive and lasting impact on the world. As the pioneer of the life science real estate niche since our founding in 1994, Alexandria is the preeminent and longest-tenured owner, operator, and developer of collaborative life science, agtech, and advanced technology mega campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations, including Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, San Diego, Seattle, Maryland, and Research Triangle. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ARE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE:ARE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Alexandria Real Estate Equities Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alexandria Real Estate Equities and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oak Thistle LLC lifted its position in shares of Unum Group (NYSE:UNM Free Report) by 7.3% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 20,883 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 1,422 shares during the period. Oak Thistle LLCs holdings in Unum Group were worth $1,701,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Fifth Third Bancorp raised its position in shares of Unum Group by 4.0% in the 1st quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 3,558 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $290,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares in the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Unum Group by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 6,536 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $478,000 after acquiring an additional 143 shares in the last quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC raised its position in shares of Unum Group by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 18,211 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,330,000 after acquiring an additional 147 shares in the last quarter. Private Trust Co. NA raised its position in shares of Unum Group by 7.3% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 2,757 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $225,000 after acquiring an additional 187 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Belpointe Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Unum Group by 2.1% in the 4th quarter. Belpointe Asset Management LLC now owns 9,151 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $668,000 after acquiring an additional 189 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.57% of the companys stock. Get Unum Group alerts: Unum Group Price Performance UNM stock opened at $80.63 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $80.34 and a 200-day moving average price of $78.28. Unum Group has a 52-week low of $51.80 and a 52-week high of $84.48. The firm has a market capitalization of $14.06 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.50, a PEG ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 0.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31, a quick ratio of 0.30 and a current ratio of 0.30. Unum Group Increases Dividend Unum Group ( NYSE:UNM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The financial services provider reported $2.04 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.19 by ($0.15). Unum Group had a return on equity of 14.17% and a net margin of 12.31%. The company had revenue of $3.09 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.34 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.12 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 3.4% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts forecast that Unum Group will post 9.14 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 25th will be given a dividend of $0.46 per share. This is an increase from Unum Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.28%. Unum Groups payout ratio is presently 19.79%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently commented on UNM shares. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on Unum Group from $83.00 to $85.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. UBS Group set a $89.00 price target on Unum Group and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Barclays set a $96.00 price target on Unum Group and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, July 7th. Piper Sandler lifted their price target on Unum Group from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on Unum Group from $97.00 to $105.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 1st. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $90.14. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on UNM Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, EVP Elizabeth Claire Ahmed sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $80.00, for a total value of $800,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 51,170 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,093,600. This represents a 16.35% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.93% of the companys stock. Unum Group Profile (Free Report) Unum Group, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial protection benefit solutions primarily in the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, and internationally. It operates through Unum US, Unum International, Colonial Life, and Closed Block segment. The company offers group long-term and short-term disability, group life, and accidental death and dismemberment products; supplemental and voluntary products, such as individual disability, voluntary benefits, and dental and vision products; and accident, sickness, disability, life, and cancer and critical illness products. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Unum Group (NYSE:UNM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Unum Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Unum Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Oak Thistle LLC acquired a new stake in MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET Free Report) during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 70,851 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $5,689,000. MetLife makes up 1.1% of Oak Thistle LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 3rd biggest position. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Brighton Jones LLC grew its position in shares of MetLife by 9.0% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 4,240 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $347,000 after buying an additional 351 shares during the last quarter. Sei Investments Co. grew its position in MetLife by 7.1% during the 4th quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 435,847 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,687,000 after purchasing an additional 28,848 shares during the last quarter. Interchange Capital Partners LLC purchased a new position in MetLife during the 4th quarter worth $224,000. CoreFirst Bank & Trust purchased a new position in MetLife during the 4th quarter worth $259,000. Finally, EntryPoint Capital LLC purchased a new position in MetLife during the 4th quarter worth $422,000. 94.99% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get MetLife alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms have recently commented on MET. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and issued a $97.00 target price (up previously from $94.00) on shares of MetLife in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of MetLife from $94.00 to $98.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 2nd. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their price objective on shares of MetLife from $95.00 to $94.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on shares of MetLife from $92.00 to $94.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of MetLife from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, May 24th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $95.50. MetLife Trading Up 1.6% NYSE MET opened at $77.58 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $78.96 and its 200-day simple moving average is $79.82. MetLife, Inc. has a 52 week low of $65.21 and a 52 week high of $89.05. The company has a current ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55. The stock has a market cap of $52.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.61, a PEG ratio of 0.62 and a beta of 0.85. MetLife (NYSE:MET Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The financial services provider reported $1.96 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.00 by ($0.04). The company had revenue of $18.57 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $18.06 billion. MetLife had a net margin of 6.08% and a return on equity of 20.89%. The companys revenue was up 15.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.83 earnings per share. Equities research analysts predict that MetLife, Inc. will post 9.65 EPS for the current fiscal year. MetLife Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, August 5th will be given a dividend of $0.5675 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, August 5th. This represents a $2.27 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.93%. MetLifes dividend payout ratio is currently 36.91%. MetLife declared that its Board of Directors has initiated a share buyback plan on Wednesday, April 30th that authorizes the company to repurchase $3.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the financial services provider to reacquire up to 5.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are often a sign that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued. MetLife Company Profile (Free Report) MetLife, Inc, a financial services company, provides insurance, annuities, employee benefits, and asset management services worldwide. It operates through six segments: Retirement and Income Solutions; Group Benefits; Asia; Latin America; Europe, the Middle East and Africa; and MetLife Holdings. The company offers life, dental, group short-and long-term disability, individual disability, pet insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, vision, and accident and health coverages, as well as prepaid legal plans; administrative services-only arrangements to employers; and general and separate account, and synthetic guaranteed interest contracts, as well as private floating rate funding agreements. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for MetLife Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MetLife and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Obermeyer Wealth Partners grew its stake in Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A Free Report) by 42.8% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,870 shares of the medical research companys stock after purchasing an additional 860 shares during the quarter. Obermeyer Wealth Partners holdings in Agilent Technologies were worth $336,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its stake in Agilent Technologies by 0.6% during the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 9,306,805 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,250,276,000 after buying an additional 59,781 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 7,002,671 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $938,291,000 after purchasing an additional 53,992 shares during the period. Pictet Asset Management Holding SA raised its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Pictet Asset Management Holding SA now owns 5,341,870 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $624,888,000 after purchasing an additional 128,131 shares during the period. Deutsche Bank AG raised its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 0.9% in the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 4,436,700 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $596,026,000 after purchasing an additional 38,348 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 12.3% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 4,192,790 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $563,259,000 after purchasing an additional 457,713 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.42% of the companys stock. Get Agilent Technologies alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research firms recently issued reports on A. Evercore ISI lifted their target price on Agilent Technologies from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price target on Agilent Technologies from $135.00 to $116.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Monday, April 21st. UBS Group reduced their price target on Agilent Technologies from $150.00 to $130.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, May 29th. Leerink Partners boosted their price objective on Agilent Technologies to $135.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 30th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Agilent Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, June 28th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $139.77. Agilent Technologies Stock Up 3.9% Shares of NYSE:A opened at $116.43 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $116.04 and a 200-day moving average of $122.00. The company has a market capitalization of $33.07 billion, a PE ratio of 28.75, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.40 and a beta of 1.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a quick ratio of 1.60 and a current ratio of 2.09. Agilent Technologies, Inc. has a 52-week low of $96.43 and a 52-week high of $153.84. Agilent Technologies (NYSE:A Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 28th. The medical research company reported $1.31 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.26 by $0.05. Agilent Technologies had a net margin of 17.59% and a return on equity of 25.92%. The company had revenue of $1.67 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.63 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.22 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 6.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts predict that Agilent Technologies, Inc. will post 5.58 EPS for the current fiscal year. Agilent Technologies Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 23rd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, July 1st will be given a dividend of $0.248 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, July 1st. This represents a $0.99 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.85%. Agilent Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 24.44%. Insider Buying and Selling In other Agilent Technologies news, CEO Padraig Mcdonnell sold 1,508 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $117.44, for a total transaction of $177,099.52. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 37,448 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,397,893.12. This represents a 3.87% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock. Agilent Technologies Profile (Free Report) Agilent Technologies, Inc provides application focused solutions to the life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets, Diagnostics and Genomics, and Agilent CrossLab. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers liquid chromatography systems and components; liquid chromatography mass spectrometry systems; gas chromatography systems and components; gas chromatography mass spectrometry systems; inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry instruments; atomic absorption instruments; microwave plasma-atomic emission spectrometry instruments; inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry instruments; raman spectroscopy; cell analysis plate based assays; flow cytometer; real-time cell analyzer; cell imaging systems; microplate reader; laboratory software; information management and analytics; laboratory automation and robotic systems; dissolution testing; and vacuum pumps, and measurement technologies. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding A? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Agilent Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agilent Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Poplar Forest Capital LLC bought a new position in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:VWO Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 7,589 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $343,000. Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of VWO. Northern Trust Corp grew its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 64.6% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 41,809,891 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,841,308,000 after acquiring an additional 16,414,518 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE raised its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 6.6% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 107,088,490 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $4,716,177,000 after buying an additional 6,672,276 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 3.2% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 67,813,025 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $2,986,486,000 after buying an additional 2,076,998 shares in the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 767.3% in the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,234,019 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $101,112,000 after buying an additional 1,976,432 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 20.8% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 11,202,192 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $507,011,000 after buying an additional 1,930,209 shares in the last quarter. 67.19% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF alerts: Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF Stock Performance Shares of NYSEARCA VWO opened at $50.76 on Wednesday. Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF has a 52-week low of $39.53 and a 52-week high of $51.07. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $48.62 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $46.05. The stock has a market cap of $93.94 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.08 and a beta of 0.69. Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF Company Profile The Fund seeks to track the performance of the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index, that measures the return of stocks issued by companies located in emerging market countries. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLC trimmed its stake in iShares Silver Trust (NYSEARCA:SLV Free Report) by 15.9% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 8,300 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 1,569 shares during the quarter. Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLCs holdings in iShares Silver Trust were worth $257,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of SLV. Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in iShares Silver Trust in the first quarter valued at $25,000. Anderson Financial Strategies LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Silver Trust in the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new position in iShares Silver Trust during the 4th quarter valued at about $30,000. Vermillion Wealth Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares Silver Trust during the 4th quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, Kentucky Trust Co boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Silver Trust by 185.7% in the first quarter. Kentucky Trust Co now owns 1,000 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 650 shares during the period. Get iShares Silver Trust alerts: iShares Silver Trust Stock Performance Shares of SLV opened at $35.72 on Wednesday. iShares Silver Trust has a twelve month low of $24.25 and a twelve month high of $35.82. The firm has a market cap of $18.77 billion, a PE ratio of -8.51 and a beta of 0.59. The firms 50 day moving average price is $32.47 and its 200 day moving average price is $30.30. iShares Silver Trust Profile iShares Silver Trust (the Trust) owns silver transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust. The Trusts each share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in its net assets. The assets of the Trust consist of silver held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares Silver Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Silver Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Retirement Income Solutions Inc bought a new position in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm bought 1,441 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $229,000. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Perigon Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in Philip Morris International by 0.4% during the 1st quarter. Perigon Wealth Management LLC now owns 14,087 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,236,000 after purchasing an additional 60 shares in the last quarter. TBH Global Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 0.9% during the first quarter. TBH Global Asset Management LLC now owns 6,932 shares of the companys stock worth $1,100,000 after buying an additional 61 shares during the period. Capital Advisors Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 2.1% during the first quarter. Capital Advisors Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,005 shares of the companys stock valued at $477,000 after buying an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. Lloyd Advisory Services LLC. increased its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Lloyd Advisory Services LLC. now owns 2,032 shares of the companys stock valued at $323,000 after acquiring an additional 64 shares during the period. Finally, Western Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Western Wealth Management LLC now owns 4,446 shares of the companys stock valued at $706,000 after acquiring an additional 64 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 78.63% of the companys stock. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts have recently commented on the stock. Bank of America upped their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $182.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $175.00 to $190.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. UBS Group set a $181.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Finally, Citigroup restated an overweight rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Tuesday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Philip Morris International currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $186.73. Philip Morris International Trading Down 8.0% PM stock opened at $166.01 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $178.83 and its 200 day moving average is $159.09. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12-month low of $108.00 and a 12-month high of $186.69. The stock has a market cap of $258.39 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.23, a PEG ratio of 2.59 and a beta of 0.51. Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $10.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.33 billion. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 8.43% and a negative return on equity of 122.40%. Philip Morris Internationals quarterly revenue was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.59 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current fiscal year. Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 27th were given a $1.35 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 27th. This represents a $5.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.25%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio is currently 111.34%. About Philip Morris International (Free Report) Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Richardson Financial Services Inc. cut its position in shares of iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:HYG Free Report) by 3.4% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 28,330 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 985 shares during the quarter. iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF accounts for about 1.7% of Richardson Financial Services Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 9th largest holding. Richardson Financial Services Inc.s holdings in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF were worth $2,235,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Wayfinding Financial LLC bought a new stake in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF in the first quarter valued at $34,000. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV raised its position in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 59.9% in the first quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 494 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $39,000 after acquiring an additional 185 shares in the last quarter. Rathbones Group PLC acquired a new stake in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $218,000. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $250,000. Finally, Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. lifted its holdings in iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 17.2% in the 1st quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. now owns 3,374 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $266,000 after acquiring an additional 495 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF alerts: iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Trading Up 0.2% NYSEARCA HYG opened at $80.50 on Wednesday. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $79.69 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $79.15. The company has a market cap of $17.02 billion, a PE ratio of 10.79 and a beta of 0.43. iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF has a 1 year low of $75.08 and a 1 year high of $80.73. iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Profile iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to track the investment results of the Markit iBoxx USD Liquid High Yield Index (the Index), which is a rules-based index consisting of liquid the United States dollar-denominated, high yield corporate bonds for sale in the United States, as determined by the index provider. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares iBoxx $ High Yield Corporate Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Summit Wealth Partners LLC trimmed its position in iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IWS Free Report) by 4.5% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,926 shares of the companys stock after selling 90 shares during the quarter. Summit Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF were worth $243,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. UNIVEST FINANCIAL Corp bought a new position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $1,543,000. Washington Trust Bank lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF by 55.4% during the 1st quarter. Washington Trust Bank now owns 17,597 shares of the companys stock worth $2,217,000 after buying an additional 6,276 shares during the period. Foundation Wealth Management LLC PA bought a new position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $278,000. Nuance Investments LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF by 623.8% during the 4th quarter. Nuance Investments LLC now owns 128,916 shares of the companys stock worth $16,657,000 after buying an additional 111,105 shares during the period. Finally, Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF by 347.7% during the 4th quarter. Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC now owns 54,688 shares of the companys stock worth $7,073,000 after buying an additional 42,472 shares during the period. 80.17% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF alerts: iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF Price Performance iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF stock opened at $136.61 on Wednesday. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $131.04 and a 200 day simple moving average of $128.37. iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF has a one year low of $108.85 and a one year high of $140.95. The company has a market capitalization of $13.69 billion, a PE ratio of 19.11 and a beta of 1.08. About iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell Midcap Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell Midcap Value Index (the Value Index). The Value Index measures the performance of the mid-capitalization value sector of the United States equity market. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IWS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IWS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell Mid-Cap Value ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kidder Stephen W increased its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 44.8% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 970 shares of the investment management companys stock after acquiring an additional 300 shares during the quarter. Kidder Stephen Ws holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $530,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Prestige Wealth Management Group LLC lifted its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 1.1% in the 4th quarter. Prestige Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 1,659 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $950,000 after purchasing an additional 18 shares in the last quarter. Wynn Capital LLC grew its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 0.3% during the 1st quarter. Wynn Capital LLC now owns 5,877 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $3,211,000 after purchasing an additional 20 shares during the period. 1900 Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. 1900 Wealth Management LLC now owns 777 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $425,000 after purchasing an additional 20 shares during the period. Register Financial Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 2.5% during the 1st quarter. Register Financial Advisors LLC now owns 805 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $440,000 after purchasing an additional 20 shares during the period. Finally, World Equity Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 0.9% in the first quarter. World Equity Group Inc. now owns 2,330 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,273,000 after buying an additional 20 shares during the period. 71.21% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets GS has been the subject of several research reports. HSBC reiterated a reduce rating and issued a $627.00 target price (up previously from $558.00) on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Citigroup increased their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $550.00 to $700.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday. Wall Street Zen upgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 12th. JMP Securities reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $600.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $560.00 target price on the stock. in a report on Friday, April 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have issued a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, The Goldman Sachs Group currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $660.00. The Goldman Sachs Group Trading Down 0.7% NYSE:GS opened at $701.04 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $215.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.45, a P/E/G ratio of 1.50 and a beta of 1.35. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $647.01 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $601.27. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 1 year low of $437.37 and a 1 year high of $726.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26, a current ratio of 1.12 and a quick ratio of 0.68. The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The investment management company reported $10.91 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $9.82 by $1.09. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 12.37% and a return on equity of 13.84%. The firm had revenue of $14.58 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.53 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $8.62 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 14.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 EPS for the current year. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be given a $4.00 dividend. This is a boost from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.28%. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is presently 35.26%. The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. W.G. Shaheen & Associates DBA Whitney & Co lifted its position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report) by 5.4% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 37,741 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after buying an additional 1,921 shares during the quarter. W.G. Shaheen & Associates DBA Whitney & Cos holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $6,265,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Wedbush Securities Inc. increased its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 10.6% during the 1st quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc. now owns 18,416 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $3,057,000 after purchasing an additional 1,768 shares in the last quarter. J. W. Coons Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 14.8% in the first quarter. J. W. Coons Advisors LLC now owns 3,574 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $593,000 after buying an additional 460 shares during the last quarter. WESPAC Advisors SoCal LLC raised its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 1.2% in the 1st quarter. WESPAC Advisors SoCal LLC now owns 12,787 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $2,123,000 after purchasing an additional 154 shares in the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC raised its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 2.4% in the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 74,247 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $12,325,000 after purchasing an additional 1,775 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Advisors Preferred LLC lifted its position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 408.4% during the first quarter. Advisors Preferred LLC now owns 1,566 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $264,000 after purchasing an additional 1,258 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 16.51% of the companys stock. Get Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing alerts: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Trading Down 1.8% NYSE:TSM opened at $234.47 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.22 trillion, a P/E ratio of 26.74, a P/E/G ratio of 1.15 and a beta of 1.29. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $212.72 and a 200 day simple moving average of $193.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a current ratio of 2.39 and a quick ratio of 2.18. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a 12-month low of $133.57 and a 12-month high of $248.28. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The semiconductor company reported $2.47 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.13 by $0.34. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a net margin of 42.91% and a return on equity of 34.53%. The company had revenue of $30.07 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $28.50 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.48 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 44.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts predict that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th will be given a dividend of $0.6499 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 16th. This represents a $2.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.11%. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio is presently 28.16%. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research analysts have commented on TSM shares. Barclays reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $240.00 target price (up previously from $215.00) on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and issued a $270.00 price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Susquehanna set a $265.00 price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and gave the company a positive rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $258.33. Get Our Latest Research Report on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (Free Report) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wealth Alliance LLC decreased its position in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG Free Report) by 18.8% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,120 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after selling 492 shares during the period. Wealth Alliance LLCs holdings in EOG Resources were worth $272,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EOG. Meridian Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in EOG Resources during the 1st quarter valued at about $200,000. Lindbrook Capital LLC boosted its holdings in shares of EOG Resources by 74.6% during the first quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 5,132 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $658,000 after purchasing an additional 2,193 shares during the period. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its position in EOG Resources by 3.0% during the first quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 43,346 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $5,559,000 after purchasing an additional 1,245 shares in the last quarter. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp increased its stake in EOG Resources by 4.8% in the 1st quarter. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp now owns 30,162 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $3,868,000 after buying an additional 1,384 shares during the period. Finally, IFP Advisors Inc increased its stake in EOG Resources by 84.3% in the 1st quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 24,185 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $3,102,000 after buying an additional 11,064 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.91% of the companys stock. Get EOG Resources alerts: EOG Resources Trading Up 1.2% EOG opened at $117.92 on Wednesday. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 1-year low of $102.52 and a 1-year high of $138.18. The stock has a market capitalization of $64.36 billion, a PE ratio of 10.94, a PEG ratio of 9.12 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a current ratio of 1.87, a quick ratio of 1.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $117.82 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $121.26. EOG Resources Increases Dividend EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The energy exploration company reported $2.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.75 by $0.12. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 22.35% and a net margin of 26.14%. The business had revenue of $5.84 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.92 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.82 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 31st. Investors of record on Friday, October 17th will be paid a dividend of $1.02 per share. This is a positive change from EOG Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.98. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 17th. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.46%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 36.18%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Stephens started coverage on EOG Resources in a report on Tuesday, June 17th. They set an equal weight rating and a $137.00 price target for the company. Barclays lifted their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $137.00 to $140.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Morgan Stanley set a $135.00 price target on shares of EOG Resources and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating on shares of EOG Resources in a report on Sunday, June 22nd. Finally, Scotiabank raised shares of EOG Resources from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and reduced their price objective for the company from $150.00 to $130.00 in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $139.81. View Our Latest Research Report on EOG Resources Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, COO Jeffrey R. Leitzell sold 3,951 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $119.65, for a total transaction of $472,737.15. Following the sale, the chief operating officer owned 45,739 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,472,671.35. This trade represents a 7.95% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. 0.13% of the stock is owned by insiders. EOG Resources Company Profile (Free Report) EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for EOG Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EOG Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A Cold War-era armoured building close to the Mull of Kintyre is set to see action again as the base for a cutting-edge rocket test and teaching facility. MachLab is a new facility located in a business park on the site of the former RAF Machrihanish airbase, which is close to Campbeltown. Established by University of Glasgow researchers, MachLab received nearly 500,000 in industry funding, including a matching contribution from the UK Space Agency. It aims to support the research and development of new rocket engines capable of delivering up to one tonne of thrust. Researchers from academia and industry will be able to fire experimental rocket designs and gather data on their performance using MachLabs custom-built test stand. MachLab will also help establish the UKs next generation of rocket engineers through specialist training, including a University of Glasgow-led programme called Rocketry Research Teaching Training, or R2T2. The programme, also funded by the UK Space Agency, will bring rocketry students from all over the UK to MachLab to develop their skills and test new rocket designs. Dr Krzysztof Bzdyk and Professor Patrick Harkness, of the University of Glasgows James Watt School of Engineering, partnered with space technology experts Exotopic to design and build the MachLab facility. Machlab forms part of Exotopics growing R&D infrastructure at the Machrihanish site, and the Glasgow researchers are continuing to collaborate with their counterparts at Exotopic on the delivery of the operational service. Professor Harkness said: MachLab is ready to play a key role in the UKs strategy to return to vertical launch, ensuring that students and researchers can access hotfire facilities in a safe and controlled environment. MachLab will allow us to co-operate with other countries establishing or re-establishing their access to space. We have already had visitors from South Africa, and we expect to welcome partners from Australia in the near future. The UK is returning to vertical launch, and will be going to the stars. We are building that future here, today. Jack Tufft and Jack Davies are PhD students at the University of Glasgow, working on space propulsion. They were key members of the MachLab team. Jack Davies said: Being part of the team to make this facility come to fruition has been a great experience and it will enable research for spaceflight and planetary landing. The facility has already hosted an initial test-fire of new 3D-printed rocket engines with an advanced cooling system, designed by Jack Tufft and supported by funding from the UK Space Agency. The TORC-1, -2, and -3 engines use a high-strength aerospace alloy made from copper, chromium and zirconium and were built to explore use of topology optimisation in regenerative cooling channel design, which can improve performance by making the engines lighter and more efficient. The design was supported by ToffeeX, a physics-driven generative design software platform, and by Aconity3D GmbH, who specialise in the development of state-of-the-art and beyond machines for additive manufacturing. In the future, MachLab will enable the development of rocket engines using solid, liquid and cryogenic propellants designed to carry payloads into space. The rocket test stand in MachLabs fortified lab allows researchers to fire prototype rockets while they remain safely locked down and stationary. The lab was originally built in the late 1980s as part of a refuelling complex for US Air Force strategic bombers. MachLabs specialist data-collection equipment provides researchers with detailed readings of temperature, propellant consumption, chamber pressure, and other key metrics to help them understand and refine their designs. Dr Bzdyk said: MachLab has been two years in the making, with all the systems required to operate a liquid bipropellant rocket engine being created from the ground up. Were excited to be ready to start making our mark in rocket research, development and teaching in Scotland. Patrick and I are very grateful to our colleagues Jack Davies and Jack Tufft, and the many others who have helped us in countless ways since work on MachLab began began. Andy Grey, CEO of Exotopic, said: This has been a fantastic opportunity to partner with some of the UKs leading researchers at the University of Glasgow to develop a world-class facility that provides a key capability within our unique aerospace R&D offering at Machrihanish airbase. We are looking forward to welcoming national and international researchers from academia and industry to our site, growing this R&D service, and creating more jobs and opportunities in the area. Matt Archer, Director of Launch at the UK Space Agency, said: Facilities like MachLab strengthen our launch ecosystem, helping build the skills, infrastructure and innovation needed for a resilient UK launch capability. By supporting rocket engine testing and inspiring future engineers, it lays the groundwork for the UK to lead in launch. The UK Space Agency is proud to have supported MachLabs development as part of our broader commitment to growing the UKs launch sector. Oh dear, poor old Barack Obama could be in real trouble here if the alleged accusations by the Trump team of treason are true. Obama could now be jailed for alleged treason. Documents released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence reveal that Obama tried to subvert the election of President Trump during the 2016 election by spreading fake dossiers claiming collusion with Russia. This level of treason usually results in a jail term, but due to Obamas position, it may be impossible to action the treason. Declassified Evidence of Obama Administration Conspiracy to Subvert President Trumps 2016 Victory and Presidency Read the file here Supporters of Obama say that the former president would not be phased about going to prison, even if it was for 30 or 40 years. He would have a great time there because of the thriving LGBTQP community, and he would also receive conjugal visits from Big Mike. I dont think this Trump alleged treason BS is phasing him at all. Bring it on, is what I hear from the Barry team, a Democrat insider revealed on Wednesday. In a series of diplomatic engagements, Singapore has strengthened its strategic alliances with European and regional partners, finalizing comprehensive agreements with France and Indonesia. These collaborations aim to enhance defense capabilities, explore new technological frontiers, and promote regional stability within a complex global landscape. Get alerts: A Landmark Partnership with France Singapore has elevated its relationship with France to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), the first such agreement with a European nation. The upgraded pact, which builds upon a strategic partnership signed in 2012, was announced during a state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron. The enhanced alliance will deepen cooperation in critical areas, including civilian nuclear energy, defense technology, intelligence sharing, and the development of artificial intelligence. During a joint press conference, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the importance of like-minded countries working together in an uncertain world. The CSP is designed to deepen collaboration in established sectors while expanding into new areas, such as decarbonization and digitalization. As part of the agreement, Singapore will leverage Frances extensive expertise in nuclear energy as it explores this option for its future energy needs. France is a global leader in the field, generating approximately 70 percent of its power from nuclear sources. The two nations signed agreements to cooperate on safety, workforce development, and emergency preparedness related to atomic power. The defense pillar of the relationship has also been significantly reinforced. The countries will enhance cooperation in defense technology and establish a senior officials dialogue. A key component of this is a General Security Agreement that facilitates the sharing of classified information, thereby supporting deeper security cooperation in counter-terrorism and cybersecurity. Strengthening Regional Defense with Indonesia Concurrently, Singapore has strengthened its defense relationship with its close neighbor, Indonesia. Following a meeting in Jakarta between Indonesian Deputy Minister of Defense Donny Ermawan and the Chief of Defence Force of the Singapore Armed Forces, Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, the two nations agreed to expand bilateral defense cooperation. The collaboration will feature joint military exercises across all three domains: land, sea, and air. A notable new area of focus is cyber defense. Indonesian officials expressed keen interest in exploring this field, particularly given Singapores recent establishment of its Digital Intelligence Service, which concentrates on cyberspace. While specific details of the initiatives were not made public, the stated goal is to enhance the military capabilities and defense posture of both countries, contributing to overall regional stability. A Future-Focused Foreign Policy These recent agreements reflect a concerted effort by Singapore to build a network of diverse and robust international partnerships. The parallel focus on traditional military cooperation and emerging technological challenges, such as AI and cyber threats, demonstrates a forward-looking approach to national and regional security. The pact with France also extends beyond defense, encompassing collaboration on digital policy, aviation, and maritime affairs. This includes plans for an International Avionics Lab in Singapore, to be developed in collaboration with the French aerospace company Thales, as well as knowledge exchange on the decarbonization and digitalization of maritime ports. Analysts note that these moves enable Singapore to expand its interests and explore alternative pathways to prosperity, thereby reducing its vulnerability to geopolitical tensions between major world powers. By strengthening ties with key players in Europe and ASEAN, Singapore is actively reinforcing its commitment to a rules-based international order and a stable, multilateral global system. The Western Trusts Human Milk Bank service based at the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen is making a fresh appeal for more donor mums to come forward over the busy summer months and help to provide essential lifesaving donor breast milk for babies in Neonatal Units throughout the whole of Ireland. Susan Rogers, Lead Nurse for Public Health at the Western Trust expressed her thanks to all our Human Milk Bank donors for their support. She said: "We are indebted to our donor mums who have continued to provide essential donor breast milk for babies in neonatal units in hospitals throughout the whole of Ireland. The Human Milk Bank staff are working very hard to ensure this vital service remains available to all our vulnerable premature babies as the demand for donor expressed breast milk at this time is exceptionally high. Susan continued: We are continuing to experience a high demand for human milk over the summer period. Last year the Human Milk Bank provided over 1,000 litres of donor breast milk to units across 27 hospitals throughout Ireland. This precious lifesaving donor milk has helped 783 premature babies, of which 223 were either a twin or a triplet. Breast milk gives premature and sick babies the best possible start in life as it helps build their immune system, their eye and brain development and prevents against devastating diseases which can affect premature or low birth weight babies. We have been very busy processing requests for donor milk to neonatal units across the province and in the Republic of Ireland over the past number of months. It is essential that we recruit donors on a continual basis. I would appeal to expectant mums to consider becoming a donor and for anyone to help spread the word about the Human Milk Bank as this is the best way to help us recruit new donors! We are also extremely grateful for the support of the Voluntary Blood Bikers, who continue to help support the transport of this much needed donor breast milk in all weather conditions. Susan added: We have so many wonderful supporters who kindly help us raise awareness of our Human Milk Bank service on social media channels. This helps us to spread the word throughout Ireland of the need for donor mums to come forward to keep this vital service going. A man has appeared at Derry Magistrates Court charged with arson at the address of his former partner as well as a number of domestic violence offences. Trevor Kelly (39) of no fixed abode was charged with, on July 21, stealing two bank cards and fraud by false representation. He was also charged with, on the same date, assaulting police, arson, possession of cannabis, trespassing, abusive behavior and, on July 18, assaulting his former partner. Police initially responded to a report from a friend of the injured party that she had allegedly been self-harming. Police arrived and found her to have a black eye that she said had been caused by Kelly. Police were later recalled to the same address following reports of a fire. The fire department told them that they believed the fire to be deliberate. Kelly was said to have been at the scene with alcohol, watching the police and fire response. Police subsequently arrested him and found cannabis on his person. While in police custody, Kelly was said to have assaulted an officer. It was also found that the injured party had a restraining order out against Kelly for previous domestic offences. She told police that Kelly had allegedly been with her and drinking when they began to argue and Kelly was said to have assaulted her. Kelly denied the charges and claimed that he hadn't seen the injured party. The court heard that Kelly had 96 previous convictions, including for arson and domestic violence against previous partners. READ NEXT: Benone beach one of UK's 'most loved beaches' according to the public Police objected to bail as they believe there is a risk of reoffending and interfering with witnesses. Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that the evidence linking Kelly to the arson was 'circumstantial', saying that Kelly was simply in the area drinking at the time. Bail was refused and he will appear again on August 14. A former BBC Panorama journalist has said covering Bloody Sunday in his 20s inspired his decades-long career. Peter Taylor, 82, from Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, subsequently dedicated a large portion of his working life to documenting events in Northern Ireland. During the Troubles he interviewed republican and loyalist inmates in a notorious prison which he said had not been accessed before, or in the same way since. He also tracked down and spoke to an MI5 officer who he said was central to getting the IRA to commit to peace in a secret mission. As he was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE), Mr Taylor told the Princess Royal that his first assignment in Northern Ireland was covering Bloody Sunday for ITVs This Week. On January 30 1972, British soldiers shot dead 13 civil rights protesters on the streets of Derry. Speaking to the PA news agency at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, after being honoured for services to journalism and public service broadcasting, he said: I remember being shocked at what happened and feeling guilty that I knew nothing, or very little, about the background to the conflict. I remember that day thinking I better start trying to find out, so I spent the past 50 years trying to do exactly that. It took him nearly 10 years of work to get permission to make a documentary inside the high-security Maze Prison housing paramilitaries, which is no longer in operation. It was otherwise known as Long Kesh and was the site of 1981 hunger strikes. People serving sentences for murder and a whole series of dreadful atrocities were inside, Mr Taylor said, adding that he gained their trust to be interviewed. The conversations were conducted without prison officers oversight, he added. At Windsor Castle, the former BBC journalist told PA: In the end, when they saw the film they were glad that they had taken part because it gave a different view of the contribution that they were potentially prepared to make towards peace. You know youve succeeded when you get that kind of reaction, when theyre clearly expecting to take you to the cleaners for what youve done, and they say wasnt bad for a Brit. He earned the trust of major figures including former IRA commander Martin McGuinness, whose funeral he attended, and Ian Paisley, previous leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), whose memorial he was invited to. The aim was to get behind the mask and that required them trusting me, but me trusting them to be as straight as they were prepared to be. They knew I had a job to do, so when I asked really difficult questions which in most cases they tried to answer, they knew that was part of my job they didnt take it personally, but they knew what I was trying to do. Another major scoop was accessing the back channel between MI5 and the IRA leadership. The security service ran a secret mission designed to encourage the IRA to stop killing people and engage in the political process, he said. The MI5 officer, unearthed by Mr Taylor and his team, was part and parcel of that process. He flatly denied working for MI5 when Mr Taylor first approached, but the journalist left his calling card and a book he had written titled The Provos: The IRA And Sinn Fein. Around 20 years after Mr Taylor first started working on the story, the officer wrote to him and said he had watched his documentary My Journey Through the Troubles. He said, if there are any gaps in your knowledge that you would like to sort out, Im now prepared to talk to you. Mr Taylor travelled to interview him on the condition of anonymity. Fewer programmes like Mr Taylors are now made because of lack of funding, he said, adding that his did not attract huge viewing figures. My worry is that public service broadcasting and the climate in which I grew up and learned my trade is under threat, he told PA. It needs finances. What we do, people like me try and do, is to help people understand and make political choices and pass judgments on these extremely difficult, complex issues. The publics appetite is changing too, he said, adding: People just grow weary of bombs, mayhem, murder, bad news. Young people need to carry the torch onwards, which is a hard ask because getting jobs and story commissions is increasingly difficult, he said. Peter Taylor will take part in a special evening of conversation as part of Feile Derry 2025's debates and discussions programme. Mr Taylor will be joined by former political prisoner, hunger striker and Sinn Fein elected representative Raymond McCartney for an in-depth conversation about the story behind the headlines. The event will take place on August 11 at 7.00pm at Culturlann Ui Chanain. The two men first met in 1990 in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh during the filming of Enemies Within - a documentary by Steve Hewlett that featured interviews with both republican and loyalist prisoners. Raymond McCartney Peter Taylor has spent over five decades reporting on the conflict in Ireland, documenting the people, the politics, and the long path to peace. Tickets for this event are free and can be accessed here: eventbrite.co.uk/e/peter-taylor-in-conversation-with-raymond-mccartney-tickets-1478091364059 This conversation with Raymond McCartney is one of the key highlights of Feile 2025s biggest-ever programme, with hundreds of events taking place right across the city from August 6 to 15. The full programme can be viewed at: feilederry.com/feile-2025 The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), which is the leading European professional organisation for medical oncology, has presented the North West Cancer Centre (NWCC) at Altnagelvin with ESMO accreditation as a Designated Centre of Integrated Oncology & Palliative Care for 2025 - 2027. North West Cancer Centre is the first cancer centre in Northern Ireland to receive this prestigious accreditation which was presented to NWCC staff during the ESMO world congress at Barcelona. This prestigious programme recognises cancer centres that provide the highest standard of integrated oncology and palliative care services, with the goal of improving research, education and clinical practice by setting standards for service development. The NWCC was awarded this accreditation by fulfilling 13 strict criteria based on recommendations from the World Health Organization on the provision of palliative care for patients with cancer. Geraldine McKay, Director of Unscheduled Care, Medicine, Cancer and Clinical Services at the Western Health and Social Care Trust said: Congratulations to all our staff at North West Cancer Centre and all those who support them in achieving this accreditation. READ NEXT: Man charged in Derry Court with arson at address of his former partner "This really is global recognition of the high quality and compassionate care that our staff provide to our cancer and palliative care patients each and every day." Speaking about the global recognition, Dr Raafat Malek Abdelsayed, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at NWCC said: We are honoured to receive the ESMO certification, which is granted only to outstanding oncology centres in the world. "At the NWCC we are dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer care, integrating oncology and palliative care services seamlessly." A celebration event took place at the North West Cancer Centre on Friday 18th July 2025. This was attended by Neil Guckian, Western Trust Chief Executive, Dr Tom Frawley; Western Trust Chair and Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council Ruari McHugh, to celebrate this prestigious achievement. The mother of a teenage girl killed in a road collision in Bangor paid an emotional tribute to her beautiful princess during her funeral. Mourners at Tuesdays service for 16-year-old Jaidyn Rice were encouraged to wear the schoolgirls favourite colour pink as they gathered at St Andrews Presbyterian Church in Bangor, Co Down. The young Army cadet, who was a year 12 student at Priory College, died after being struck by a car on the West Circular Road in Bangor on the night of Tuesday July 8. Her mother Elaine delivered the first of a series of tributes from family and friends during the funeral service. She said half of her heart would now always be carried by her daughter. Please hold tight to it, princess, and know that Im with you always, she said. Please never let go and keep it safe for me when we are together again. I just want you to know that Im so, so, so proud of you forever, and I love you with all of my heart forever and ever, to the moon, stars and back again. It has been an absolute pleasure to be your mummy. I dont want to say goodbye to you, Jaidyn. I cant, so Im just going to say I will see you soon, baby. Sleep tight, my beautiful princess. I hope and pray youre at peace. Youre the bravest soldier that ever lived and heaven has gained the most beautiful, precious angel ever. I hope everyone is looking after you up there. I cant wait to be with you again. Good night. I love you. Ill see you soon. Jaidyns younger brother Kenley also paid tribute, as did her grandmother Judith Rice. The schoolgirls boyfriend, her best friend, her Army Cadet leader and her school principal were among others to address the service. Reverend Ian McKee, who conducted the funeral, said Jaidyn was loved deeply and adored absolutely. Her untimely death has devastated the family circle and shocked the whole community right to the core, he said. Jaidyn was a beautiful, very special young lady. She loved, apparently, the colour pink, hence her pink bible and the pink coffin. Im told if she could have had her way, she would have dyed her pet hamster pink, too. Her death has created a void in the lives of many and brought deep sorrow and overwhelming numbness for family and friends alike. After the service, Jaidyns pink coffin was brought to Clandeboye Cemetery for burial. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has pledged to fund new arts and cultural programmes that will see more island-wide productions, tours and exhibitions on both sides of the border. Mr Martin said programmes will be launched later in the year to help communities celebrate the diversity across the island. In the annual Seamus Share Home Place lecture, at Navan Fort in Armagh, Mr Martin spoke of conversations he had with the former deputy first minister of Northern Ireland and a founder of the SDLP. Mr Martin said Mr Mallons wise words inspired him when he announced the Shared Island Initiative some five years ago. Orla Mallon, daughter of Seamus Mallon said; It is an honour that Taoiseach Micheal Martin TD, a good friend of my late father, will deliver the annual Seamus Mallon Lecture. pic.twitter.com/x4QtNTlA7J The John and Pat Hume Foundation (@humefoundation) July 22, 2025 Then, as now, I drew on Seamuss wise words to encapsulate why we need to do more to accommodate and understand each other across the different and often interwoven communities of this island, Mr Martin said in his speech. The Fianna Fail leader listed projects and initiatives to connect both sides of the border, including an hourly train service from Dublin to Belfast, which he said brought a 50% increase in passenger numbers. He also cited the Narrow Water Bridge project, a Shared Destinations tourism programme, the Ulster Canal restoration and island-wide enterprise and biodiversity programmes as ways of connecting different communities. Because, as Seamus perfectly described it, this is and will always be our shared home place, Mr Martin added. Our focus on fostering people-to-people interaction is also now moving to a higher level. To meet the scale of the demand and the potential there is now, to foster connections in every domain, and to involve and benefit every town and community on this island. We are continuing and expanding the Shared Island Civic Society Fund and island-wide Creative Ireland programming. We are this year initiating major new arts and cultural heritage programmes, backed with more than 20 million euro from the Government of Ireland out to 2030. This will see more island-wide productions, tours and exhibitions across all arts spheres and a new Ireland-UK cultural partnership for institutions and audiences to engage more with the culture and heritage of both our countries. Earlier on Tuesday, Mr Martin visited the Middletown Centre, which works with children and young people with autism and is funded by the Irish Government and Stormont. The centre is doing excellent work, not only through providing services and supports, but also in terms of contributing to the broader body of knowledge on autism, through their essential research, he added. It is also a shining example of practical North-South co-operation in action. It was established by the two departments of education, north and south, in 2007, and is funded by both departments. It demonstrates the strength of collaboration on this island, and what can be achieved by working together. A former BBC Panorama journalist has said covering Bloody Sunday in his 20s inspired his decades-long career. Peter Taylor, 82, from Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, subsequently dedicated a large portion of his working life to documenting events in Northern Ireland. During the Troubles he interviewed republican and loyalist inmates in a notorious prison which he said had not been accessed before, or in the same way since. He also tracked down and spoke to an MI5 officer who he said was central to getting the IRA to commit to peace in a secret mission. As he was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE), Mr Taylor told the Princess Royal that his first assignment in Northern Ireland was covering Bloody Sunday for ITVs This Week. On January 30 1972, British soldiers shot dead 13 civil rights protesters on the streets of Londonderry. Speaking to the PA news agency at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, after being honoured for services to journalism and public service broadcasting, he said: I remember being shocked at what happened and feeling guilty that I knew nothing, or very little, about the background to the conflict. I remember that day thinking I better start trying to find out, so I spent the past 50 years trying to do exactly that. It took him nearly 10 years of work to get permission to make a documentary inside the high-security Maze Prison housing paramilitaries, which is no longer in operation. It was otherwise known as Long Kesh and was the site of 1981 hunger strikes. People serving sentences for murder and a whole series of dreadful atrocities were inside, Mr Taylor said, adding that he gained their trust to be interviewed. The conversations were conducted without prison officers oversight, he added. At Windsor Castle, the former BBC journalist told PA: In the end, when they saw the film they were glad that they had taken part because it gave a different view of the contribution that they were potentially prepared to make towards peace. You know youve succeeded when you get that kind of reaction, when theyre clearly expecting to take you to the cleaners for what youve done, and they say wasnt bad for a Brit. He earned the trust of major figures including former IRA commander Martin McGuinness, whose funeral he attended, and Ian Paisley, previous leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), whose memorial he was invited to. The aim was to get behind the mask and that required them trusting me, but me trusting them to be as straight as they were prepared to be. They knew I had a job to do, so when I asked really difficult questions which in most cases they tried to answer, they knew that was part of my job they didnt take it personally, but they knew what I was trying to do. Another major scoop was accessing the back channel between MI5 and the IRA leadership. The security service ran a secret mission designed to encourage the IRA to stop killing people and engage in the political process, he said. The MI5 officer, unearthed by Mr Taylor and his team, was part and parcel of that process. He flatly denied working for MI5 when Mr Taylor first approached, but the journalist left his calling card and a book he had written titled The Provos: The IRA And Sinn Fein. Around 20 years after Mr Taylor first started working on the story, the officer wrote to him and said he had watched his documentary My Journey Through the Troubles. He said, if there are any gaps in your knowledge that you would like to sort out, Im now prepared to talk to you. Mr Taylor travelled to interview him on the condition of anonymity. Fewer programmes like Mr Taylors are now made because of lack of funding, he said, adding that his did not attract huge viewing figures. My worry is that public service broadcasting and the climate in which I grew up and learned my trade is under threat, he told PA. It needs finances. What we do, people like me try and do, is to help people understand and make political choices and pass judgments on these extremely difficult, complex issues. The publics appetite is changing too, he said, adding: People just grow weary of bombs, mayhem, murder, bad news. Young people need to carry the torch onwards, which is a hard ask because getting jobs and story commissions is increasingly difficult, he said. 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. This week on GeoWatch: Nvidia's H20, TSMC, and Pegatron Chair Nvidia's H20 chip gets the green light for China after US policy shifts; TSMC breaks records and joins the trillion-dollar club; and Taiwan's tech community quietly backs a grassroots recall movement tied to democratic and cross-strait concerns. 1. Nvidia's H20 chip cleared for China Nvidia's H20 AI chip, previously restricted under U.S. export controls, has reportedly been cleared for sale to China following a significant policy reversal by the Trump administration. The decision reflects a confluence of political lobbying, strategic positioning, and ongoing trade negotiations. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang played a central role, warning US officials that continued restrictions would push Chinese companiessuch as Huaweito develop domestic alternatives and lock out US suppliers from a vital growth market. Huang argued that the H20 is a lower-tier chip, substantially less powerful than Nvidia's top AI products sold elsewhere, and that continued bans would harm US tech leadership. Support also came from David Sacks, a prominent tech investor and advisor to the White House on AI policy. Sacks reportedly echoed concerns about China's AI capabilitiesparticularly Huawei's CloudMatrix 384 systemand advocated for a more nuanced approach to export policy. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is said to have tied the approval to broader trade talks, calling it a strategic move to ensure Chinese developers remain dependent on US technology. Trump reportedly gave final approval after a meeting with both Huang and Sacks earlier this month. Jensen Huang in Beijing. Credit: AFP 2. TSMC joins the US$1 trillion club Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) delivered blockbuster second-quarter results, riding a wave of global demand for AI and high-performance computing chips. Revenue reached a record US$30.07 billionup 38.6% year-on-yearwith net income surging over 60%. The company's 3nm and 5nm technologies now account for more than 70% of its wafer revenue. CEO C.C. Wei confirmed mass production of 2nm chips will begin in the second half of 2025, with capacity expansions also accelerating in the US and Japan. The momentum helped push TSMC's market capitalization past the US$1 trillion mark for the first time, briefly peaking at US$1.2 trillion based on ADR performance. The company became the first Asian firm since PetroChina in 2007 to sustain such a valuation. 3. Taiwan's recall election draws tech industry attention A wave of grassroots-led parliamentary recall campaigns is shaking Taiwan's political landscapeand drawing support from parts of the tech sector. The movement, targeting several Kuomintang (KMT) lawmakers, has been characterized by its organizers as a defense of democratic integrity and legal process. One high-profile supporter is Robert Tsao, the outspoken former UMC co-founder, who has backed the recalls while denying coordination with the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Tsao criticized recent legislative maneuvers by KMT lawmakers as authoritarian and procedurally unjust, claiming they undermine the rule of law and benefit Beijing's strategy to sow chaos in Taiwan before any military aggression. Another notable voice is Pegatron Chairman T.H. Tung, who returned to his hometown of Hualien to publicly support the recall of local KMT legislator Fu Kun-chi. Tung emphasized the need to make room for younger political talent, calling the vote a potential "milestone in democratic progress." While business leaders typically avoid political involvement, the recalls have sparked quiet support among tech workers as well. Posts on social media platforms like Threads show engineers from TSMC, UMC, Broadcom, Micron, and other companies openly backing the movementthough many remain cautious about discussing politics at work. T. H. Tung, Chairman of Pegatron. Credit: Digitimes Article edited by Jerry Chen A psychiatric report on Riad Bouchaker, who is charged with attempting to murder three children and assaulting a care worker during an incident in Dublin, is being assessed by the prosecution, a court has been told. Mr Bouchaker, of no fixed abode, was charged with the attempted murder of two female children and one male child. He was also charged with the assault causing serious harm to a care worker. He was further charged with three counts of assault causing harm as well as the possession and production of a 36cm kitchen knife. The incident happened at Parnell Square on November 23 2023. A senior counsel for Mr Bouchaker told the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday that a psychiatric report has been made available to the DPP. A prosecution barrister said that the report is being assessed by Dr OConnell. Mr Justice Paul McDermott put the matter back for mention to October 22. Justice McDermott told the court on Wednesday that cases involving young children should be given priority and noted the ages of the complainants. A five-year-old girl and a woman in her 30s were left in a critical condition in hospital after the attack near a school on November 23. Two other young children, a five-year-old boy and six-year-old girl, were also injured. The attack happened hours before a riot broke out in the city centre of the capital. Former TD Colm Keaveney has been banned from driving for four years after he refused to provide a blood or urine sample to gardai following a late-night road incident in Boyle, County Roscommon. Keaveney, a former Labour TD for Galway East who later joined Fianna Fail, lost his Dail seat in 2016 but returned to politics in 2019 when he was elected to Galway County Council. Mr Keaveney, aged 54, of Milltown Road, Tuam, County Galway, appeared before Judge Sandra Murphy at Carrick-on-Shannon District Court, where he pleaded guilty to two charges: failing to provide a specimen under Section 12 of the Road Traffic Act, and failing to stop after a collision under Section 106. The incident occurred on October 11, 2024 when gardai observed a Ford Focus being driven without lights through Boyle. The car veered to the wrong side of the road before colliding with a white vehicle waiting at a junction. READ NEXT: Irish holidaymakers hit with Status Red flood warning in popular holiday destination The State solicitor told the court the driver, identified as Mr Keaveney, did not stop after the collision and continued driving before eventually pulling over on St Patrick Street in the town. When approached by gardai, the court heard Keaveney was unsteady on his feet, had glassy eyes, and smelled of alcohol. He was arrested and taken to Carrick-on-Shannon garda station, where he refused to provide a blood or urine sample to a designated doctor, despite a formal demand. His solicitor told the court that Keaveney had no previous convictions and had been dealing with significant personal difficulties, including the recent loss of both parents. He also suffered from chronic back pain due to previous spinal surgery and had requested to see his own doctor at the garda station, which was not possible. He has three children, two adult and one infant. Mr Keaveney is not the sort of person you would expect to see before the court, she remarked, noting his cooperation and the absence of any previous convictions. Judge Murphy imposed a 250 fine and a four-year disqualification from driving. Several other charges, including driving without insurance or a licence, were struck out after valid documentation was provided. Colm Keaveney was charged on June 11, 2024, with driving under the influence of drugs, relating to an alleged incident on June 12, 2023. Keaveney began his political career on Tuam Town Council in 1999 and was first elected to Galway County Council in 2004. He was elected to Dail Eireann in 2011 as a Labour TD and served as party chairman during a turbulent time marked by austerity. He lost the Labour whip in 2012 after voting against the governments Social Welfare Bill, citing matters of conscience. In 2013, he resigned from Labour and joined Fianna Failbecoming the first sitting TD to cross directly between the two parties. Though he lost his Dail seat in 2016, he was re-elected to Galway County Council in 2019, where he currently serves. A local independent Louth bookstore has secured a grant of up to 5,000 as part of the Books At One Community Fund 2025. Roe River Books in Dundalk was successful following a national call for submissions to deliver interesting and innovative community initiatives. The announcement of the store came as Books At One announced that 21 stores across the country would receive funding as part of the Books At One Community Prize Fund. Each winning independent Irish bookstore will receive a grant of up to 5,000 to deliver a unique community engagement initiative that reimagines how bookshops can serve as creative and social hubs across Ireland. The Books At One Community Fund, supported by The One Foundation, was launched to support independent bookshop owners in helping bring creative ways to connect with their local communities, where they may not have had the resource or finance to do previously. READ NEXT: Closing date for Louth Business Awards fast approaching Whether through inclusive cultural events, youth workshops, or storytelling festivals, the initiative will assist independent bookstores to bring innovative ideas to life which will benefit their local communities. Chairperson of The One Foundation Eoghan Stack said: Books At One are delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Community Fund. "This fund was developed to support independent bookstore owners in creating new and interesting ways their store could be used for community engagement, creating more welcoming spaces that reflect the voices in their local towns. "We believe the power of a bookshop goes far beyond bookshelves and look forward to seeing how these ideas come to life across the country." The winning ideas will be brought to life over the coming months, across towns and cities with events and activities that put people and stories at the heart of community life. For further information or to follow the progress of these projects, visit www.booksatone.ie or follow @books_at_one on Instagram Dundalk Chamber has welcomed the ringfencing of 36 billion for housing and water infrastructure and the 24 billion that has been allocated for transport under the National Development Plan. The Chamber said: While specific projects under the NDP will be announced closer to the Budget, we take this opportunity to reiterate our call for the Drogheda-Dundalk-Newry region to retain its current strategic status. Positioned at the heart of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC), this cross-border region has the potential to serve as a vital counterbalance to the concentrated growth in both Dublin and Belfast. With the right infrastructure investment, the region can offer high-quality living, sustainable population growth, and economic resilience. This region has the largest urban population within one hour's reach and already possesses much of the critical infrastructure needed to support continued growth. However, persistent bottlenecks must be addressed through targeted investment under the NDP. In their submission they outlined four key priority areas: Infrastructure Upgrades: Immediate investment is required in water and wastewater treatment facilities, particularly upgrading the Dundalk Wastewater Treatment Plant to meet environmental standards. Enhanced water supply is also essential to meet the needs of a growing population and industrial base. Transport and Connectivity: Improved public transport and stronger road and rail links throughout the DBEC are critical. This includes better cross-border mobility and direct air connectivity to both Dublin and Belfast airports. Housing and Enabling Infrastructure: Delivering homes where people want to live requires unlocking zoned land by prioritizing enabling infrastructure such as electricity, water, and transport. Support for modern construction methods and more flexible planning policies is also essential to meet housing demand and ensure affordability. Sustainable Spatial Development: Planned expansion of Dundalks urban core and its surrounding villages should be guided by balanced and sustainable spatial strategies to support long-term, resilient growth. We also emphasise the importance of completing the Port Access Northern Cross Route (PANCR) in Drogheda, a project vital not only for Drogheda but for the future development of County Louth as a whole, they said. Read Next: Louth TD says War on Drugs Is lost without new health-led approach Chamber President Hanna McDonnell stated: "This Plan must further support our long-term vision now recognised in the NDP of the M1 region functioning as a 'linear city' that warrants the same level of investment and policy focus as Irelands existing cities." Paddy Malone, PRO of Dundalk Chamber, added: "This review offers the Government a chance to make stronger commitments to the M1 Corridor and the wider Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor, reinforcing both regional development and the Shared Island Initiative." Louth County Council has been asked for an update on the remit of the Disability Officer in the county, in an aim to help improve the lives of those with a disability in Louth. Cllr Pearse McGeough raised the matter at the Louth County Council July meeting, and in comments to the Dundalk Democrat following the meeting, said that, "people with disabilities feel left behind. Local authorities including Louth meet their requirements regarding the law around services and infrastructure but is it enough to just do the bare minimum? What I would like to do is find out what engagement there is across the services with disability groups, advocates or constituents." The Sinn Fein councillor continued, "I deal with the Disabled Grants section on behalf of constituents and have found the application form and process can be very bureaucratic but the staff in that section are always very helpful and willing to assist so I just want to ensure there is consistency across the services for disabled or vulnerable people. Lets make this county better for everyone and no-one knows better than they what is needed. Cllr McGeough also asked the local authority for a possible presentation by the Disability Officer, at an upcoming meeting, to understand more about their role. Read also: Louth councillor welcomes support for motion on Israeli War Bonds There has been some criticism of the shortage of detail in the Governments 112bn revised national development plan (NDP) and its lack of funding proposals specific to Cork. The revised NDP covers infrastructure funding for housing, energy, water, and transport projects between 2026 and 2030. Approximately 30bn of the overall 112bn is new funding, with some coming from the Apple tax settlement and the sale of AIB shares. Housing is the centrepiece, with funding of up to 36bn. Transport will receive 24bn, of which 2bn is to kickstart Dublins Metrolink. Some 3.5bn is earmarked for electricity services, with 4.5bn going to Uisce Eireann. Some Cork opposition TDs criticised the NDPs lack of specificity, and the absence of local plans. Donnchadh O Laoghaire, Sinn Fein TD for Cork South Central, said the lack of reference to Cork was a huge concern to him. The national planning framework talks about Cork being the fastest-growing city in Ireland, but you cant deliver on that without a very significant investment in infrastructure, without commitment to the Cork Luas, the elective hospital, and so on, and I do think the NDP is far too thin on detail, he said. Michael Collins, Independent Ireland TD for Cork South-West, said the plan was big on ambition but short on detail and he accused the Government of being far too fond of headlines. Once again, when you strip back the headlines and look at the detail, West Cork has been left out of the conversation entirely, he said. Eoghan Kenny, Labour Party TD for Cork North Central, described the lack of detail as disappointing, and cited the Cork-Limerick motorway, the Mallow relief road, and the Cork Luas as projects that needed urgent attention. These are three vital pieces of infrastructure for Cork, they are vital for our city and county to grow and develop, but once again we are in the dark about real and tangible delivery on these projects, he said. However, Government TDs were quick to defend the NDP and point to the increased funding allocations. Jerry Buttimer, minister of state and Fine Gael TD for Cork South-Central, said the NDP was not necessarily meant to be area-specific. For me, whats important is that we have the allocation of capital investment so that we will be able to do what we have said we will do in terms of infrastructural development, he said. Seamus McGrath, Fianna Fail TD for Cork South-Central, said the 112bn was an unprecedented investment in capital programmes. As a Cork representative, I will be doing everything I can to make sure that Cork benefits from that, under the various headings of housing, transport, energy, and infrastructure, he said. Padraig OSullivan, Fianna Fail TD for Cork North-Central, said that while the plan did not go into specific project details, Government had committed further funding to existing commitments. Any suggestions or inferences that Cork projects are in some way dropping off from the existing development plan are false and, as usual, scaremongering from the usual quarters, he said. A Cork senator has welcomed the beginning of the annual Farm Safety Week, which aims to raise awareness of the dangers and risks that are present on the farm. Run by the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) in conjunction with farming organisations across the UK, Farm Safety Week runs until this Friday, July 25. The objective of Farm Safety week is to raise awareness of the dangers and risks that are present on the farm. Speaking about Farm Safety Week 2025, Cork North West Fine Gael Senator Eileen Lynch, who comes from an agricultural background, said: Having grown up on a farm myself, I know that there are hazards involved in almost every activity and area on the farm. That includes machinery, equipment and livestock. It is vital that we take this week to raise awareness surrounding these dangers and ensuring safety on the farm at all times. Ms Lynch added: We are very lucky to have had so many brave survivors come forward and share their stories. Each story told goes a long way to promote farm safety and hopefully save many others from the numerous dangers that they face on the farm on a daily basis. Having people share their experience is a great help in raising awareness and hopefully preventing accidents The IFA provides resources in relation to farm safety, including information about the dangers that can be faced on the farm, the area of child safety on farms, and information about farmers mental health and wellbeing. In regard to farmers mental health and wellbeing, the IFA also has a guide for farmers on how to deal with stress in all areas of life. Less than 1% (1 out of 104) of rental properties in Cork allowed pets on one of the biggest rental search platforms, Daft.ie, Dogs Trust have said, as a Cork DAWG spokesperson says they have seen people bawling crying giving up their pets but saying that its homelessness or the dog. Dogs Trust says the number of surrender requests they have received because owners cannot find pet-friendly accommodation has increased by 112% in the past five years nationally. It has launched a petition to urge the Government to change the law and stop allowing blanket bans on pets in tenancy agreements, and is appealing for more signatures as it is set to close on Friday. Maire OSullivan, a spokesperson for Dog Action Welfare Group (DAWG) in Cork, said increasing problem: We have a lot of people who say: I love my dog, I dont want to part with my dog; however its homelessness or the dog. Weve seen people living in their car because theyve refused to give up their dogs, and weve seen people saying they cant survive this housing crisis anymore so theyre going abroad and they have to give up their dog. "These are much beloved pets who should have a home, and its devastating for a family who might have been living in a house for 15 years having to tell their kids theyre moving and one member of the family isnt going with them. Ms OSullivan said the situation is hard for everyone: The amazing thing about dogs is how adaptable they are, they live in the moment. "Ive had rescues in my own home who have come from very bad circumstances but now live happy lives. "Dogs make the best of every situation and will fall in love with their new owner as well, so its probably harder for the people. She explained that there is a huge overpopulation of dogs in the country in general at the moment. If you have a little bichon, theyre very easy to be rehomed, so its the collie or lurcher or alsatian that doesnt get to come out of the pound who is most affected. "Were overwhelmed with puppies at the moment, so this is just another pressure on rescue dogs. Ms OSullivan explained that if adopting from DAWG, they ask for a signed letter of permission from landlords to help avoid this occurring, but it doesnt prevent the problems arising when someone has to leave their rental home and find a new one. She said: We had a lot of post-pandemic rehoming that probably hid the eviction ban wave, but we definitely see a steady flow of this issue. Its one thing somebody dumping a dog, but its another thing when somebody is bawling crying its really upsetting and you feel like a monster taking the dog away, but youre cleaning up the pieces of a broken system. More and more people in the Irish economy are renting, so the rental market needs to become more attuned to long-term family homes, and dogs are part of that. Sarah Lynch, the policy, compliance and research manager at Dogs Trust, said: The current rental laws dont provide enough protection for tenants who are dog owners Families are being forced to make an impossible choice, and find a new home for the dog they consider part of the family. Visit dogstrust.ie/petition for further information and to sign the petition. There sits the most dangerous woman in America, said West Virginia district attorney Reese Blizzard. She comes into a state where peace and prosperity reign... crooks her finger, and 20,000 contented men lay down their tools and walk out. The year was 1902, and Mother Jones was on trial for ignoring a court order that banned meetings by striking miners. It wasnt the first time the union organiser would fall foul of the law, and it wouldnt be the last, with the prospect of prison holding no fear for her. I can raise more hell in jail than out, she was fond of saying. Mick Lynch, then general secretary of the RMT in Britain, who addressed the opening of the 2023 Mother Jones Festival at the Firkin Crane. Picture: Eddie OHare A year later, she would raise more hell by leading thousands on the so-called March of the Mill Children to the Long Island summer home of the then US president, Theodore Roosevelt, protesting the brutal child labour practices which saw one sixth of all American children under the age of 16 working full-time jobs. PERSONA In many ways, Mother Jones was a persona that Mary Jones assumed, wearing drab, old-fashioned black dresses and pretending to be far older than her 60 or so years, speaking in a lilting Irish brogue which would fall away when she was angered. Mother Jones was born Mary G Harris on Cork citys northside, possibly on Blarney St, the second of five children, to Richard Harris, a tenant farmer, and Ellen Cotter, a native of Inchigeelah. Marys exact date of birth is unknown, but she was baptised by Fr John OMahony in the North Chapel on August 1, 1837. Author and professor Elliott J Gorn, actress Kaiulani Lee, author Marat Moore, Jim Fitzpatrick of the Cork Mother Jones Committee, author and film maker Prof Rosemary Feurer, Brian McGee of the Cork Archives, and Gerard OMahony, Richard T Cooke, and Ted Tynan of the Cork Mother Jones Committee, at the inaugural Spirit of Mother Jones Festival, gathered around the baptism font in the North Cathedral where Mary Harris was baptised on August 1, 1837. Picture: Martin Duggan Little is known of her early life in Cork my people were poor, she states in her autobiography and she and her family fled the aftermath of the Great Famine during her teen years, travelling to the New World, to Canada, where she and her family suffered discrimination as immigrant Catholics. She never forgot her own people, though, writing of them: For generations they had fought for Irelands freedom. Many of my folk have died in that struggle. She studied at the Toronto Normal School, eventually travelling south to Monroe, Michigan, where, in 1859, at the age of 23, she took up a teaching job in a convent, where she earned $8 a month, but it was a job she found depressing. She moved on, becoming a dressmaker, first in Chicago, and then in Memphis, Tennessee, where in 1861 she married George E Jones, an organiser with the National Union of Iron Moulders. Six years later, in 1867, tragedy struck, and she lost her husband, and their four children, three girls and a boy all under the age of five, to a yellow fever epidemic in Memphis. BATTLE CRY Years later, what became perhaps her most famous utterance served as her battle cry: Mourn the dead, and fight like hell for the living. She returned to Chicago, and dressmaking. Barely four years later, she lost her home, her belongings, and her business, in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Becoming a volunteer in the effort to rebuild the city, she joined the thriving Knights of Labour, where she became involved in organising strikes. When that movement disbanded amidst violence and fears of anarchism, she joined the United Mine Workers (UNM) and the Socialist Party of America, leading strikers on the pickets while exhorting that working men deserved a wage that would allow women to stay home to care for their kids. She was, perhaps oddly, uninterested in the cause of womens suffrage, claiming you don't need the vote to raise hell, and she was vehemently opposed to abortion. She believed the empowerment of the working class to be more important than the empowerment of women, but when accused of being anti-womens rights, she retorted: Im not an anti to anything which brings freedom to my class. She was jailed in 1913 for her part in the West Virginia Paint Creek mine strike, sentenced by a military court which she refused to recognise - to 20 years in the state penitentiary. She was released after 85 days under house arrest. Months later, she was arrested as an organiser of what became known as the Colorado Coalfield War, again serving time in prison. Shandon Shawlies Mary Crowley, Mary Twomey, and Emily Keating at the opening of the 2018 Spirit of Mother Jones Festival at the Maldron Hotel Shandon on John Redmond St. Picture: Jim Coughlan Denounced on the floor of the US senate as the grandmother of all agitators, she retorted: I hope to live long enough to be the great-grandmother of all agitators. She remained a union organiser into the 1920s, continuing her fight for better pay and conditions for workers, and constantly highlighting the scandal of child labour. In May of 1930, Mother Jones celebrated what she declared was her 100th birthday, the moment captured for posterity on newsreel, and that winter, on November 30, she died in Silver Springs, Maryland, probably aged 93. She was buried in the Union Miners Cemetery in Mount Olive, Illinois. Kate OShea and sisters Saibh and Liath McGelligott dressed as child labourers in the Cork Community Artlink and Foroige Group Blarney St staging of a March of the Mill Children pageant during the 2019 Spirit of Mother Jones Festival at Shandon. This years festival will take place in and around Shandon until Saturday. Picture: Larry Cummins Her legacy lives on, and she is seen by some as a secular patron saint of the labour movement. Earlier this year, on a visit to Cork, US senator and former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders retraced her footsteps on Shandon, saying: As Mother Jones said: We mourn the dead, but we fight for the living, and if there was ever a time in the modern history of our planet, now is the time to fight for the living. In 2010, on International Womens Day, Ted Tynan, Workers Party councillor for the north-east ward, proposed a plaque be erected by Cork City Council on John Redmond St. The Mother Jones plaque in Shandon. It was unveiled on August 1, 2012, the 175th anniversary of the baptism of Mary Harris, the most dangerous woman in America. The 2025 Spirit of Mother Jones Festival will take place in and around Shandon over three days from Thursday, July 24 until Saturday, July 26. See motherjonescork.com for details. The final night of the West Cork Literary Festival very nearly solved the political crux of the summer who could unite the entire country as president? Would you run? former RTE broadcaster Ryan Tubridy probed BBC star Graham Norton, in the hour-long interview that was the closing event of a hugely successful festival, on Friday night. Dont you have to do it for, like, 14 years? replied Graham, sprightly adding: Id do it for two! But the Bandon man quickly clarified his comment with: I really think it ought to be someone who lives here. That statement opened up another query which went unasked does Graham not intend to retire to his lovely Ahakista home if he ever decides to throw in the towel at the Beeb? It had been billed as a meeting of two great talk masters and it was undoubtedly the hottest ticket in town. Ryan certainly found himself at the receiving end of one of televisions quickest wits. Introducing the event, Tubridy joked it was like Dublins 46A, you wait for two former chat show hosts to come along and quick as a flash Norton interjected: I am not a former chat show host is there something you know that I dont? Something in the British press today?! It was the first of many quips about Tubridys troubles which the Dublin man tried to brush off, saying he had opted to leave the Friday night talk show to turn down the volume a bit on his career. That didnt work out too well, life is not linear, thats for sure, he laughed. In the unsurprisingly hilarious chat between the two men, Graham also revealed that his next book was inspired by a footstool he saw in a New York junk shop, with the names of children embroidered into it and the story will be set between America and Ireland. He was so taken by the stool that he bought it immediately and brought it home with him. Have you ever done that before? asked Ryan, referring to the purchase of an item that would inspire a best-seller. Eh, no, Ive never based a book on an embroidered footstool, replied Graham, with a characteristically sharp retort. A Cork TD has welcomed confirmation from Bus Eireann and the Department of Education that a new school bus service will be in operation for Rockchapel National School during the forthcoming academic year. The announcement comes after ongoing engagement between Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul OShea and the Department of Education in recent months. The new service has been confirmed as there are enough eligible pupils applied and paid on time, meeting the criteria required to activate a dedicated route. Mr OShea said the announcement is a welcomed addition to the local community. This is fantastic news for the families of Rockchapel and the surrounding area. School transport has long been a concern for rural communities and Im delighted that the need here has been acknowledged and acted upon. Mr OShea added: I want to thank the families who engaged early with me on this matter and the application process. "Their timely action helped ensure that this service could be progressed without delay. I will continue to work closely with the Department and Bus Eireann to ensure this service is in place for the start of the school year. The Department of Education has also confirmed that the procurement process is now underway to secure a driver and a suitable vehicle for the route. After this is finalised, the families involved will be contacted directly with further information. The DPP decided that an alleged assault at a building site in Ballincollig in December 2022 was too serious to be dealt with at district court level. Sergeant John Kelleher said the Director of Public Prosecutions decided that the case against Adrian Murray of 3 Courtown Park, Knocknaheeny, Cork, should be heard by indictment at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. There was also DPP consent to a signed plea of guilty being entered at Cork District Court and the accused being sent forward for sentencing at the circuit court. GREAT ISLAND The charge against the 32-year-old is brought under Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act and states that on December 6 2022 at Great Island, Ballincollig, Cork, he assaulted another man causing him harm. Defence solicitor Eddie Burke asked for a precis of the evidence, a copy of the memo of interview with the accused and CCTV of the alleged incident, if available, so that the defence could consider its position. Warning: Some readers may find this content distressing A woman who was raped and abused by her brother, who is six years older than her, at the family home in Youghal, eventually got the courage to report it to gardai so that he would not hurt anyone else in the future. Today Niamh Herbert recalled sitting in her car outside garda stations trying to find the courage to report on what had happened to her from the age of six, at the hands of her brother, Emmett Baylor. Detective Garda Yvonne Cashman said sexual assaults and rapes were carried out on occasions when she was aged from six to nine, and he was 13 to 16, the age difference between brother and sister being just over six years. The rapes occurred in the latter part of this three-year period. They were both adopted. Their father gave a character reference for his son at todays sentencing hearing. Det. Garda Cashman said Emmett Baylor, 47, worked with Irish Lights, four weeks at sea, four weeks off, but had lost his job as a result of this case. He is not married and does not have children. Defence senior counsel Alice Fawsitt said the defendant was as young as 12 when the offences on which he was convicted commenced and had emotional difficulties at that time. She said he was about to be promoted by Irish Lights but lost his job. She said he has no alcohol or addiction issues and he did not accept the guilty verdict of the jury. She asked for as much leniency as possible. His father Brendan Baylor gave a character reference for his son in court today. VICTIM EVIDENCE Niamh Herbert presented her own victim evidence from the witness box: Standing here today and giving this statement is personal and painful. I was just a little girl when you started to abuse me, and made me a victim. You trapped me for years in a cycle of fear and terror. Countless nights I lay in bed frozen in fear, counting footsteps, terrified of what might come next and those memories haunt me to this day. The terror didn't stop when the sexual abuse ended. I still grieve for the childhood and youth you stole from me, for the years of innocence and joy I will never get back. Your abuse was calculated. You knew exactly what you were doing, and you knew it was wrong. I carried your secret for years. The shame, the blame, the unbearable weight of your crime was sat on my shoulders. At just 13 years old, I turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain and quiet the torture in my mind. I was angry and empty, drinking to blackout, crying myself to sleep. I would wrap my scarves around my face, put my head inside my pillowcase and hope I wouldn't wake up in the morning. Niamh Herbert pictured with supportive family and friends outside the courthouse on Anglesea Street, Cork City. She has waived her right to anonymity in connection with the rape case involving her brother, Emmett Baylor. Picture Chani Anderson. I often wonder what my life would have been like if I had lived in safe and loving home, but I'll never know. Due to your abuse I have suffered with anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, panic attacks, and sensory distress. I have to take mental health medication and sleeping tablets. I will need to take them for the rest of my life. From 2018 onwards I spent many nights parked outside the Garda station, willing myself to find the courage and strength to walk inside and tell them what you had done to me. In the end, it wasn't courage or strength that made me take that step. It was guilt. The crushing fear that you might be hurting other children. I knew I would never truly rest unless I spoke out. "I knew I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I didn't. You prey on peoples vulnerability and fear. When that doesn't work, you turn to lies and manipulation, trying to gain sympathy to serve yourself. I am a grown woman now and you can't hurt me anymore. 'I WILL FINALLY HAVE PEACE' I would like to thank the jury for believing me, bringing justice through a guilty verdict. I will finally have peace knowing I did everything I could to speak the truth. I hope that from this day forward Emmett Baylor will never have the opportunity to harm another person again. I want to acknowledge all of the professionals who worked on this case inside and outside the courtroom, especially Detective Garda Yvonne Cashman. I'm forever grateful to the family that stood by and supported me through it all; My husband Paul, my brother Martin, Norma and Sarah. To my dear friends also, you know who you are. Det. Garda Cashman outlined the background to the case where Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford and a jury heard the case last month at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork and the jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts against Emmett Baylor of Hilltop, Youghal, County Cork, on a number of charges including sexual/indecent assaults and oral rapes. Readers may find the details disturbing. Emmett Baylor indecently assaulted her at the family home in Youghal. On five separate occasions when she was in bed he got into her bed, underneath the covers, put her hand on his penis and masturbated himself He sexually assaulted her in the living room (interfering with her vagina). There were five oral rapes where he put his penis in her mouth when she was crying, Det. Garda Cashman testified. Ms Justice Lankford said there was a lot to take into consideration before imposing sentence and she adjourned finalisation until 2 p.m. July 30 at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork. Emmett Baylor was remanded in custody until then. Ms Herbert waived her right to anonymity. Prosecution senior counsel Ray Boland referred to a recent Supreme Court case and said there was no legal prohibition to identifying Emmett Baylor. - If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services. American writer Tara Westover once said: Education is not so much about making a living, as making a person. Your college years wont just give you a degree in x, y or z, they also set you up for the person youre becoming in all aspects of your life. Whether you move out, stay at home, move country or stay in the same county, the first year of college involves a lot of change! However, it is from that change, or at least from figuring out how to adapt, that we grow. I started Law BCL in UCC last September and here are the things I have learnt. I hope I can give some insight into my perspective of being a college student in Cork. The main thing Ive taken away is to interact and converse with as many people as you can. I know that can seem overwhelming and nerve-racking, it certainly did to me! Even so, try to spark up a conversation with the person beside you. Most of those conversations will go to the back of your mind, but at least youve introduced yourself to someone you might come across again. On the flipside, that quite simple tip also gained me some of my best friends and my closest relationships to date. Thats where the next piece of advice comes in. Whilst you should be friendly and talk to as many people as you can, its OK to be more selective about who you spend more time with. College brings with it the potential to make so many friends which is one of the best things about my university experience so far. But they should be the kind of people who support you, reflect your values, who you have fun with, respect, feel most like yourself with, and the ones you trust. As a fellow law student here in Cork, Faye Clancy, reflected: You get to decide who you want to surround yourself with, you pick your circle. Psychologists believe who we are, our personalities, and how we behave are influenced most significantly by the five people we spend most time with. So, take a moment to think of who those people are; hopefully, they align with the person you believe yourself to be. Getting used to living with roommates can be a huge change for many. Niamh Finn, a Psychology student, has just returned home to Cork from inter-railing with three of her first-year roommates at university in Galway. Your roommates can be a great support network, and Niamh recommended taking a walk in the city together and getting to know not only where the local shop and amenities are, but also each other. Everyone encourages you to meet people and socialise when you start college, but it can seem confusing or daunting to figure out how to actually go about that. I found that joining societies or clubs was a great place to start. I thought it was particularly beneficial to join a group related to my course, the Law Society, then something separate, the Global Justice Society. This helped me get to know people on my course but also expand my contacts. As an added bonus, getting involved in extracurriculars builds up your CV for applying to internships and career opportunities. Another way to meet people is to say yes to social events, whether its a quiz, a night out, going for dinner, balls, the list goes on. Going out and having fun, whatever that looks like for you, is one of the greatest parts of college and Ive already made incredible memories. Whilst youre out, try to be aware of your surroundings and look out for others. A major, practical takeaway from my first year came from completing the Bystander Intervention programme and learning about ways to actively interrupt harassment and violence. Next, I learnt about studying! My approach to learning for a Law exam and for the Leaving Cert last year were quite different. It took time to adapt to studying a whole new area of content, terminology, concepts, and ideas. Not only are you diving into a new, specific field, you also need to adjust to reading lists, different methods you might need to study for college exams, the format of the essays, submitting assignments and so on. Looking back on the first months, I would have told myself to always try to engage with the course and material, even if youre unsure youre doing it the right way. The best way to do that is to keep going to lectures, prepare for and attend tutorials, but definitely do give yourself some grace for not knowing it all - you wouldnt be here if you already did! On that point, dont rely on AI, Chat GBT and Copilot. These can be fantastic tools, that young people need to get our heads around. However, Ive learnt to think of college as your training. Its not just about regurgitating a paragraph for an exam youll have forgotten in a week, its about building up your legal knowledge and more importantly, your skills to be able to work in the field, even when the work itself evolves and adapts - as the law does. I can only imagine this same sentiment applies to the majority of other courses. I also got a part-time job in a law firm in the first semester, and it has really pushed me to learn as I go, to believe in my abilities, and has helped me connect my course to what it would actually be like as a job in practise. It has also given me the chance to begin figuring out what I would and, conversely, would not like from my career in the future. A huge lesson Ive learnt is the reminder that experienced professionals have gone through being a student too, so are willing to give you advice. Ive reached out to judges, barristers, solicitors, legal executives, Phd researchers and more, all of whom have been generous with their time and happy to lend a hand. From this, Ive learnt your degree is a pathway into so many possibilities. That choice once overwhelmed me, but now its the choice and possibilities that excite me about college. Walk the path with inquisitiveness, rather than running to one destination without stopping along the way. Living alone certainly comes with a lot more freedom and added responsibility. However, even if you stay at home for college, you have to navigate balancing lectures and coffee dates and nights out and time to relax and meetings and of course, commuting. Probably the most tangible thing Ive learnt this year is to develop my time management. Balance is key and its important to find that in a way that works for you. As I navigated orientation, I was fortunate enough to have had friends a few years older than me who had been through all this before. Eve Lonergan, studying Journalism in Galway, was a huge help to me. In short, college is all about learning. About yourself, about others, about the world, about society, and about your degree. So the best advice I can give you, that I wholeheartedly plan on following myself for the rest of my college years, is to soak up as many experiences, perspectives, lessons and knowledge as possible to learn as much as you can muster! Sometimes, its hard to figure out whats really going on behind the scenes. On the one hand, theres all this sound and fury over the Occupied Territories Bill. Ireland is standing up to the might and fury of Israel and the USA to bring in legislation banning goods from illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine. Yes, Ireland is on the side of the angels here and its not alone. Last summer, for example, the international Court of Justice ruled that Israels 57-year-old occupation of Palestinian territory in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem was illegal. Subsequent to that, a resolution was passed by the UN General Assembly with 124 states, including Ireland, voting in favour. This calls on states to take steps towards stopping the importation of products originating in the Israeli settlements. So, Ireland is on the side of the angels with this Bill, then? But, on the other hand, heres the Department of Justice flatly denying entry to 33 Palestinian children and young teenagers scheduled to enjoy a tour of our country. Are we still on the side of the angels, or am I missing something here? Our stance on the Occupied Territories Bill has certainly brought us criticism, externally and internally. We have been accused (and this according to none other than the U.S ambassador to Israel) of taking a dive into a vat of Guinness and suffering from some kind of diplomatic intoxication over this legislation. Of course, Ambassador Mike Huckabees outrageous and deeply offensive piece of Paddy-stereotyping turned into a perfect example of the Law of Unintended Consequences. Because far from cowing the peasants into submission, the sheer tide of Irish fury occasioned by his comments was acidic. You might get away with that kind of vitriol in todays Washington, Mike, but it wont go down well here. Once you get an Irish back up, thats it, youre screwed. End of story. (And, Mike, your colourful intervention got so very many backs up. Diplomats, it might be advisable to remember, are normally people who are very skilled in the ancient and complex art of diplomacy. And for very good reasons, they generally dont get involved in name-calling.) On the domestic front, the employers group, IBEC, also has concerns about the Occupied Territories Bill. IBEC is concerned about the international perception of the bill, expressing strong reservations about the potentially damaging economic implications the legislation may have for the business sector here. It describes the legislation as mere symbolism and moral positioning, and warns that the legislation will succeed only in banning miniscule amounts of trade. Meanwhile, Professor Brigid Laffan, chancellor of Limerick University, has coolly observed that Ireland, as a small state with limited influence, should perhaps be more hard-nosed and avoid endangering its diplomatic capital by passing this legislation. On top of all of this, but not overtly connected to it, is the reported irritation within the EU about Irelands failure to spend enough money on defence. This is something that we really dont think nearly enough about. As of last year, Ireland had the lowest defence spend of 38 European countries. Our naval service is barely able to put to sea, our air corps is grounded after dark, and the army is notoriously hampered by little things like inadequate funding, personnel shortages, and outdated equipment. Irelands failure to address these issues is clearly a matter of concern within the EU, especially in terms of the increasingly volatile, rapidly changing geopolitical environment, and a growing focus on collective security. We spend just 0.2% of GDP on defence (a level of expenditure which has been described as a bad joke). Our many EU partners in NATO have agreed to increase their target spend from 2% to 3.5% (plus another 1.5% on critical national infrastructure and resilience.) And here we are - a well-meaning, outspoken, yet very poorly-defended little island on the periphery of Europe - appearing to deliberately poke a very big and very angry bull. We refuse to spend anywhere near the same as our allies on defence, but at the same time we seem to be provoking hornet nations in what might be perceived as a complacent expectation that our far better-armed allies, who have invested heavily in equipping their own armed forces, will rush in to protect us in the event of a backlash. Em, just as we were forced to depend on other nations to rescue Irish citizens from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in 2021 because we didnt have the, er, resources? In the context of all this and maybe, now, Im over-thinking it - was some level of doubt starting to creep in about the wisdom of passing the Occupied Territories Bill at a time when so much scary stuff is happening across the wider global stage? Thankfully, Ambassador Huckabee has provided us with something to distract us from such dark ponderings. But really. Jokes aside. What is going on? All that hullabaloo over the Occupied Territories Bill and Irelands support for the Palestinian cause and then the Department of Justice denies entry to 33 Palestinian children and young teenagers scheduled to arrive in Dublin for a planned tour of the country? In the end, the group cancelled the trip and they all went to a summer camp in Jordan instead. A bit odd, that, dont you think? Like I said, hard to get your head around it. But what do I know? The US government agency in charge of designing and maintaining nuclear weapons was among those breached by a hack of Microsoft's SharePoint server software, Bloomberg reported. However, attackers weren't able to obtain any sensitive or classified information, according to an unnamed source with knowledge of the matter. The breach occurred at the National Nuclear Security Administration, an arm of the Energy Department responsible for producing and dismantling nuclear arms. "On Friday, July 18th, the exploitation of a Microsoft SharePoint zero-day vulnerability began affecting the Department of Energy," a spokesperson told Bloomberg. "A very small number of systems were impacted. All impacted systems are being restored." The exploit only affects SharePoint for on-premises servers. The Department of energy said it was minimally impacted because it widely uses Microsoft M365 cloud "and very capable cybersecurity systems," the spokesperson added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Microsoft blamed the attack on state-sponsored Chinese hackers. They reportedly exploited flaws in SharePoint document management software and were able to access and control systems and steal security credentials and tokens. "It's a dream for ransomware operators," Google's Threat Intelligence Group said, adding that the flaw allows "persistent, unauthenticated access that can bypass future patching." Attackers also accessed the US Education Department and Florida's Department of Revenue, along with government systems in other nations including the Middle East and Europe. Microsoft announced on Monday that it had released a new security patch "to mitigate active attacks targeting on-premises [and not online] servers." After largely focusing Google I/O 2025 on the ways the company wants Gemini to change everything from searching the web to filmmaking, Google is finally ready to launch new hardware. The next Made by Google event is on the books for August 20, and Google has already confirmed what at least one of its new Pixel 10 phones will look like. Google seems dead-set on making a big splash at this event, too. On the Friday before Made by Google, the company dropped a video on X noting that a number of "special guests" were participating, including Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Curry, Lando Norris and the Jonas Brothers. What they all will have to do with a phone launch remains to be seen. Google remains as leak-prone as ever, so nearly all the new hardware the company is expected to announce has all ready been reported on in one form or another. With that in mind and after sifting through what has leaked, here's what Google will show off at the Pixel 10 launch even in New York City on August 20. Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL and 10 Pro Fold Android Headlines / Onleaks Google's invitation for the event says that the company is sharing "the latest on our Pixel phones, watches, buds and more, which more or less confirms the company will introduce a slate of products that's similar to what it launched in 2024. That means a Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL and Pixel 10 Pro Fold are absolutely on the menu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Google's tease of the Pixel 10 confirmed what leaked renders have already signaled: the company isn't abandoning the new design language the Pixel 9 established. The pill-shaped camera bump and flat front display will still be present on the Pixel 10, and the real changes will be in the details, like for example, how the flat sides of the Pixel 10 join with the phone's back. Those subtle changes will apparently also include the thickness of the Pixel 10s. While both the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL and 10 Pro Fold will use the same sized OLED screens as their Pixel 9 counterparts, they'll be housed in thicker and heavier bodies, according to Android Headlines. Google's new Pixels are also supposed to come in new colors. The Pixel 10 will come in "Frost" (a royal blue), "Lemongrass" (a yellow), "Indigo" (a light purple) and "Obsidian" (a dark gray), while the Pixel 10 Pro / Pro XL will come in Obsidian, "Porcelain" (off-white), "Moonstone" (a bluish gray) and "Jade" (a light green). Less information is known about the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, though recent leaks suggest it'll come in Moonstone and Jade, as well. Android Headlines The most visible external change that'll be introduced on the Pixel 10 is the addition of a new telephoto camera. The new telephoto camera is a 11-megapixel 5x telephoto, Android Authority reports, similar to the one on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Meanwhile, the Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL are expected to feature a 50-megapixel wide, 48-megapixel ultrawide, 48-megapixel telephoto and 48-megapixel selfie cameras. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold could feature a different lineup, with a similar main camera, but 12-megapixel ultrawide and telephoto cameras, and 11-megapixel selfie cameras. Inside the new phones, Google is laying the groundwork for future performance gains with a new Tensor G5 chip. It's likely be much more power-efficient thanks to the company switching to a 3nm design produced by TSMC. Reports suggest the chip might not be all that different in terms of raw power, but the Tensor G5 is likely designed to be extra capable when it comes to using local AI features. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As far as timing goes, it's worth noting that the latest rumors indicate that the Pixel 10, 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL will be available about a week after the event, on August 28. But the Pixel 10 Pro Fold (as well as the Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a aren't expected for more than a month after that. Those devices are rumored to be on sale as of October 9. While global tariff turmoil could justify a price increase, Google is reportedly keeping things consistent with the Pixel 10 family. They'll offer similar storage options, come in at the same prices and include the same freebies and incentives. The Pixel 10 will come with six months of Google AI Pro and Fitbit Premium, along with three months of YouTube Premium. Meanwhile the Pixel 10 Pro models will get a year of Google AI Pro, six months of Fitbit Premium and three months of YouTube Premium. The prices and storage options for the phones should breakout down as follows: Pixel 10: 128GB ($799), 256GB ($899) Pixel 10 Pro: 128GB ($999), 256GB ($1,099), 512GB ($1,219), 1TB ($1,449) Pixel 10 Pro XL: 256GB ($1,199), 512GB ($1,319), 1TB ($1,549) Pixel 10 Pro Fold: 256GB ($1,799), 512GB ($1,919), 1TB ($2,149) Pixel Watch 4 91mobiles / Onleaks The third time was the charm for the Pixel Watch 3, so the main task Google has with the Pixel Watch 4 is to not squander the solid base it already has. Leaks for the company's new smartwatches have been limited so far, but renders of the Pixel Watch 4 shared by 91mobiles do suggest Google has a few changes planned. Namely, much like the company's phones, the new Pixel Watch seems like it'll be a little bit thicker and come with smaller bezels. The Pixel Watch 4 should be available to purchase in the same 41mm and 45mm sizes as before, but in new colors including a Moonstone option to match the Pixel 10 and with a brighter display. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thicker frame will also help the smartwatch fit a larger battery and a new wireless charging system, according to Android Headlines. Rather than charge through a puck with pogo pins like the Pixel Watch 3, the Pixel Watch 4 will use a wireless charging stand that could fill it up even faster. Beyond that, Google has already indicated how Wear OS is evolving. The new Wear OS 6 update is debuting on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, and will presumably be available on the Pixel Watch 4 at launch. It includes built-in access to Gemini, among other tweaks. Given Google also manages the Fitbit Premium subscription, it wouldn't be all that surprising if the Pixel Watch 4 gets some exclusive fitness tracking features, too. Pixel Buds 2a Billy Steele for Engadget Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Google launched the Pixel Buds Pro 2 last year, and it typically doesn't update its premium earbuds on a yearly cadence. So instead, Tom's Guide reports Google might pair the Pixel 10 with the Pixel Buds Pro 2 in a new color, and save its new hardware announcements for a sequel to the Pixel Buds A-series called the Pixel Buds 2a. Unlike the company's premium wireless earbuds, the A-series Pixel Buds have historically skimped on things like active noise cancellation to hit a lower price. There's little reporting on where Google will take the Pixel Buds 2a, but you can expect the new earbuds to come in some of the new colors being introduced on the Pixel 10. Pixelsnap The Qi2 wireless charging standard is available for all phone makers to use, but it hasn't been widely adopted among Android phone makers. Qi2 uses magnets to offer improved charging speeds, just like Apple's MagSafe, and the Pixel 10 could mark Google's adoption of Qi2 through a new feature called "Pixelsnap." A report from Android Authority suggests the Pixel 10 will include the necessary magnets to make Qi2 happen, and will be introduced alongside a lineup of Pixelsnap accessories. New leaked images showing a Pixel 10 charging with a magnetic charging puck that looks a lot like Apple's MagSafe charger adds even more credence to the rumor. Advertisement Advertisement If you need even more convincing, the Wireless Power Consortium has announced that its faster Qi2 25W charging is coming to "major Android phones." It would make sense if Google's Pixel 10s were included considering runs Android itself. Gemini and other exclusive software features Gemini is Google's current favorite, and the company is pushing the AI assistant everywhere it makes sense. The last few Pixel Drops Google's regular Pixel-focused software updates have primarily included Gemini features. It would make sense for Google to include a few more software exclusives on the Pixel 10. Google is hosting the Pixel 10 launch event on August 20 at 1PM ET / 10AM PT. The company has invited press to attend in person, and you can read coverage of everything Google announces right here on Engadget. Update, August 6, 12:15PM ET: Added information about the timeline for when Google's new hardware is expected to arrive. Advertisement Advertisement Update, July 30, 2:30PM ET: Added information on pricing for the Pixel 10 lineup and new details on Qi2 support. Update, July 24, 3:44PM ET: Added details on the Pixel Watch 4's display, new colors and charging stand. Erik Menendez, the younger of the Menendez brothers at 54, is out of prison much sooner than anyone would have imagined, although not for the best of reasons. "I don't want to give away the whole story," his attorney, Mark Geragos, told TMZ . "Erick is suffering from a serious health issue right now." The lawyer added that the situation is serious enough that he decided to ask California Governor Gavin Newsom to grant him an immediate pardon. "I'm not going to violate HIPAA (which protects patient privacy in the United States) or attorney-client privilege or anything like that, but if there's anyone who should be granted parole, especially now, with the hearing just a month away, it's Erik," he added. He also hinted that Erik is being treated for an undisclosed problem. "It's a serious condition. I think he needs to be out and focus on the hearing." It was later revealed that Erik Menendez ended up in the hospital for kidney stones, also known as renal calculi. This is a relatively common health problem, which in most cases is not serious, although if the stones are very large, they may require hospitalization to break them up or reduce their size with laser treatment. If this doesn't work or they become lodged in the urinary tract, surgery is sometimes required, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Diseases . If this is Erik's situation, he may require a slightly longer hospital stay and extensive recovery. Perhaps this is what Garagos was referring to, although there has been speculation on social media about an even bigger health issue that could convince Newsom to grant him an immediate pardon. And Lyle? Adding to the questions about Erik's "serious" health problem are doubts about the future of his brother Lyle Menendez. The brothers are viewed by the public as a unit; they have the same lawyers, led by Garagos, and have handled the early release process together. However, the truth is that they were sentenced separately, as each had his own trial. Until a decade ago, they were in different prisons and were prohibited from communicating with each other. The Menendez family's legal team is currently exploring the possibility of a government pardon, and it's unknown if they will be granted one, whether it will be granted to both men, or at the same time. A new sentence and early release on bail are also a possibility. All cases were expected to be resolved before September. Things may have changed, but we still have to wait. Support Us Your Support will ensure EPWs financial viability and sustainability. The EPW produces independent and public-spirited scholarship and analyses of contemporary affairs every week. EPW is one of the few publications that keep alive the spirit of intellectual inquiry in the Indian media. Often described as a publication with a social conscience, EPW has never shied away from taking strong editorial positions. Our publication is free from political pressure, or commercial interests. Our editorial independence is our pride. We rely on your support to continue the endeavour of highlighting the challenges faced by the disadvantaged, writings from the margins, and scholarship on the most pertinent issues that concern contemporary Indian society. Every contribution is valuable for our future. (Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante) Akkodis is joining forces with leading European partners to create innovative traffic management solutions that enhance sustainable urban mobility across Europe. VIENNA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Akkodis, a global digital engineering company and part of the Adecco Group, is proud to participate in the EU-funded FEDORA[1] project (Federation of Network Optimisation Services, Simulation Foresights, and Data Alchemy for Adaptable, Agile, Secure, and Resilient Multimodal Traffic Management). Coordinated by ERTICO ITS Europe, the initiative, officially launched on June 1st, brings together a strong consortium of institutions focused on solving today's pressing mobility challenges. The FEDORA project addresses key limitations in current traffic management systems, including a lack of orchestration when addressing multi-modal needs in structured integration protocols and in the incorporation of real-world traffic complexities. These gaps have led to suboptimal performance in managing mobility services and a divergence from the EU's sustainability targets. To tackle these challenges, FEDORA will develop a federated digital platform that enables advanced, real-time sensing and forecasting of transport supply and demand, supporting more efficient, sustainable movement of people and goods. At the operational level, FEDORA will offer a collaborative data space from which advanced data processes using interconnected service and tools can be developed. It will also focus on the development of advanced traffic management optimization services and a multi-modal simulation environment to create and assess future mobility scenarios. The approach will be validated through six thematic demonstrations in diverse contexts, including Vienna, the Basque Country, Reggio Emilia, Nicosia, Budapest, and Copenhagen, addressing varying urban and rural conditions, infrastructure maturity levels, and multimodal mobility service availability. The demonstration phase is set to start in summer 2026, with Vienna as the first pilot city. Akkodis brings proven expertise to FEDORA, having previously coordinated the Horizon 2020-funded MobiDataLab project, which advanced data sharing among mobility stakeholders across Europe. The methodologies and cloud-based service platform developed in MobiDataLab now serve as a foundation for FEDORA's data space and will be expanded as part of the new initiative. FEDORA is anticipated to deliver several outcomes that will significantly improve the transport network and traffic oversight. It aims to enhance the multimodal transport system, ensuring efficient door-to-door mobility for both passengers and goods. Additionally, the initiative will develop effective solutions for secure data sharing across different transport modes, fostering a dynamic and responsive management framework. "Akkodis is committed to leveraging its expertise in digital engineering to contribute to the success of the FEDORA project. By collaborating with ERTICO, the City of Vienna, and a strong network of partners, Akkodis aims to improve the efficiency of decarbonized transport solutions in complex environments, promoting their desirability in order to support the EU's vision for sustainable mobility," comments Tanguy Deren, Director of Innovation at Akkodis France. Contacts Anne Friedrich SVP, Global Head of Communications, AkkodisE. anne.friedrich@adeccogroup.com Meldina Kurti Director, Business Partner Communications Germany, AkkodisE. meldina.kurti@akkodis.com Maria Sole Quaglio External Communications Manager Germany, AkkodisE. maria-sole.quaglio@akkodis.com About Akkodis Akkodis is a global digital engineering company and Smart Industry leader. We enable clients to advance in their digital transformation with Consulting, Solutions, Talent, and Academy services. Headquartered in Switzerland and part of the Adecco Group, Akkodis is a trusted tech partner to the world's industries. We co-create and pioneer solutions that help to solve major challenges, from accelerating the clean energy transition and green mobility, to improving user and patient centricity. Empowered by a culture of inclusion and diversity, our 50,000 tech experts across 30 countries combine best-in-class technologies and cross industry knowledge to drive purposeful innovation for a more sustainable tomorrow. We are passionate about Engineering a Smarter Future Together. akkodis.com | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook| X About The Adecco Group The Adecco Group is the world's leading talent company. Our purpose is making the future work for everyone. Through our three global business units - Adecco, Akkodis and LHH - across 60 countries, we enable sustainable and lifelong employability for individuals, deliver digital and engineering solutions to power the Smart Industry transformation and empower organizations to optimize their workforces. The Adecco Group leads by example and is committed to an inclusive culture, fostering sustainable employability, and supporting resilient economies and communities. The Adecco Group AG is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland (ISIN: CH0012138605) and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ADEN). https://www.adeccogroup.com/ [1] This project has received funding from a Research and Innovation Action under Horizon Europe Framework with Grant Agreement No 101203465. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736167...Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2598662... View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/advancing-sustainable-mobility-through-innovative-traffic-management-solutions-and-collaborative-data-integration-akkodis-announces-participation-in-eu-funded-project-fedora-302511126.html 1 Una familia de turistas se cuela en el recinto de lobos de Cabarceno y es grabado por un tiktokerr MARIETTA, Ohio Bob Lane drives through the steep hills of Athens County, pointing to access roads where his gas wells are. These conventional wells and others nearby have been producing gas for him and other property owners for decades. But today, these wells are no longer producing gas. Instead, they contain fracking wastewater. Fracking wastewater, known as brine waste, is a byproduct of unconventional oil and gas drilling. It is stored in Class II injection wells as a way to isolate the fluid from getting into the environment, reports the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Brine contains heavy metals and radioactive substances that can damage the environment and public health if it leaks into water or onto land, according to the EPA. Incidentally, brine waste has migrated out of these wells into conventional gas wells around Marietta, Ohio. Lane and Bob Wilson, owner of Wilson Energy LLC., have been fighting for six years to get the wastewater out of their wells, filing a lawsuit against injection well companies in 2019. But since then, little has been done, and now more landowners in Washington and Athens counties are finding that distinct brine stench wafting up from their gas wells. Residents are also becoming concerned that the migration of brine waste into gas wells could contaminate municipal water sources. The Warren Community Water and Sewer Association, a water service provider servicing 2,500 homes and businesses in Marietta, held a public meeting on July 15 at Warren High School to address these concerns. Bob Wilson and I would probably end up giving all of our wells away if we could find somebody to take them, Lane said. But its our farmland and (could be) everything else in the area if this continues. Barrels of brine As of 2024, there were 17 injection wells in Washington County, according to ODNR. Washington County is tied for second-most injection wells per county in Ohio after Trumbull County, with 19, said Karina Cheung, spokesperson for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources the regulatory body responsible for these wells. In 2023, 5.9 million barrels of brine were injected into wells in Washington County. Ohio accepts brine waste from a number of states, including Pennsylvania and West Virginia. As of 2025, Ohio has 232 active injection wells more than its two neighboring states combined. Ohio accepted 11,212,266 barrels of brine waste from other states in 2024, and, in total, 32,936,244 barrels of this wastewater were injected into injection wells in the state last year, according to Cheung. She notes these numbers could be higher, as companies are still sending in their 2024 reports. Lane believes injection wells are leaking because the state is accepting and injecting too much brine waste. He also questions why other states do not want this brine waste: If it has no effect on drinking water or anything else, why in the world are they hauling it over 100 miles from up in Pennsylvania, clear down here to Washington County? Why dont they drill disposal (injection) wells up there and put it in the ground up there? Brine in wells Lane, owner of Bob Lanes Welding Inc., grew up on a beef farm and orchard in Marietta, Ohio. He invested in his first gas well with a friend in 1978. In the mid 80s, he bought 72 more wells out of a bankruptcy court in Columbus. Wilson has worked in the oil and gas industry since he was 15 years old. Thats all Ive ever done, he said. He has worked in all sectors of the oil and gas industry, from drilling wells and laying pipelines to wellhead production and now owning them. Wilson has owned his own gas wells since 2000. But in 2019, he started noticing water in his gas wells, something that has halted his ability to produce gas. Wilson approached Lane, who also owned wells nearby, about the issue. Wilson and Lane reached out to ODNR about the problem, but according to Wilson, the agency didnt believe it could be brine waste. Lane then reached out to then-Ohio state Rep. Jay Edwards, who visited the well sites and put pressure on the ODNR to investigate the issue. Later that year, an ODNR inspector took samples from 15 of Lane and Wilsons wells. The results, released in June 2020, found that brine waste had migrated from the nearby Redbird #4 injection well into 28 gas production wells. According to the report, the Ohio Shale Formation, where the Redbird #4 injection well is located, has a low permeability, meaning that with a high enough amount of pressure, this fluid can escape its intended storage space. In July 2021, ODNR later concluded from a study that water wells within a one-half-mile radius did not have brine waste contamination. As of May 2020, Redbird #4 injection well stopped injecting into the Ohio Shale Formation, but has continued injection operations into a deeper formation, the Bass Islands/Salina Group injection zones, reports ODNR. Wilson and Lane filed a lawsuit in 2019 against several injection well companies, including Tallgrass Energy Company and Deeprock Disposal Solutions, and named Deeprocks former CEO Brian Chavez, now an Ohio state senator and chair of the states energy committee. But, six years later, Lane and Wilson have yet to see their day in court. The lawsuit has been appealed twice, most recently by Tallgrass in the Ohio Supreme Court, said Lane. Meanwhile, Wilson and Lane are continuing to see their wells flooded. Wilson lost another well to brine waste just a month ago, and another is on the way, he said. Today, Wilson, who owns 170 gas wells in Washington County, Ohio, has had 45 of these wells flooded. Lane, who owns 65 wells, has had eight flooded with brine water. But now, Lane and Wilson arent the only ones seeing brine waste in their wells. Gas well owners Jack Chamberlain and Joe Wigal recently reported their wells in Marietta, Ohio, to have what they suspect is brine waste from nearby injection wells, reports the Buckeye Environmental Network. Chamberlains gas well hadnt been producing for years, when suddenly he discovered his well full of water. Meanwhile, Wigal and his family have relied upon their domestic gas well for generations to heat their home; now, Wigal is unsure what to do. The biggest problem is this was our only sole form of gas, this is heating the home and, you know, it comes down to Are we going to cook things tonight? or Are we going to take a hot shower? because its a gas hot water tank and gas stove, Wigal told Buckeye Environmental Network. This video was produced by Buckeye Environmental Network. Learn more at info@benohio.org, and find Buckeye Environmental Networks YouTube channel here. The meeting As more gas well owners continue to see brine water filling their wells, Marietta residents and those in surrounding areas are concerned that this brine water could migrate into local water sources like Warren Townships and the city of Mariettas wells. PFOA, a per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) known as a forever chemical, was recently found in Warren Townships water wells, according to Warren Community Water and Sewer Associations Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report for 2024. A spokesperson for the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency told Farm and Dairy that it cannot conclude the source of the PFOA contamination but that Warren Community Water is working with an engineer to remove the PFAS, and this plan is currently under review by the agency. This is not the first time Ohio residents have had concerns about brine waste getting into drinking water. In April 2024, the Ohio Oil and Gas Commission ruled that K&H Partners must suspend operations at three of its injection wells in Athens County after ODNR identified that the wells were leaking, and brine fluid was migrating underground, posing a threat to Athens Countys water sources. The Warren Community Water and Sewer Association recently held a meeting, hosted in conjunction with Buckeye Environmental Network, that brought together residents, environmental advocates and local water officials to address concerns about brine waste contaminating local water sources. It was a follow-up to a meeting held in May with residents concerning injection wells. The association also met with the state in June about the threats brine waste could have on drinking water, said Randy Beardsley, a member of the associations board of trustees, at the meeting. Government officials said well operators are following the states rules for injection wells. New, stricter rules would be necessary to fix the problem of brine migration, said Beardsley. Many speakers at the meeting emphasized the need for residents and landowners to speak up, especially those with gas wells flooded with potential brine waste. Silence is acceptance, said Steve Hutchinson, member of the Warren Community Water and Sewer Associations board of trustees, at the meeting. What I mean by that is, everyone in this room, if you want things to change, we need each and every person in here to contact ODNR. The impacts At the meeting, Beverly Reed, a member of the Buckeye Environmental Network, also discussed the impacts that brine migration has had on landowners with gas wells. Folks depend on these wells for heat, for energy, for their homes, and theyre losing that, Reed said. Lane mentioned that at many of the properties where he drilled wells, landowners were previously using wood or propane to heat their homes. The thing that they valued most was heating their house in the winter and not having to cut firewood anymore, Lane said. Reed also mentioned landowners are now faced with the financial burden of connecting to a natural gas line and plugging their wells. Wilson is concerned that he will be tasked with pumping out and disposing of the brine waste and, later on, having to plug the wells. He added he did not cause this problem, and those responsible for it should pay for the cleanup. Lane emphasized that he loved drilling, and supports the gas industry but believes in responsible drilling. Doing something like this to future generations, putting their water supply in jeopardy, everything they might have worked for all their life in jeopardy, their property in jeopardy, Lane said. This is wrong. Retailer Iceland has U-turned on its broken promise and pledged to go cage-free by 2027 following pressure from animal welfare campaigners. The supermarket chain has recommitted to removing cages from its egg supply chain after facing backlash from the Humane League UK for abandoning its original 2025 goal. Iceland first promised to go cage-free in 2016, citing customer preference for eggs from non-caged hens. However, earlier this year the retailer reversed its decisionuntil now. The retailer's updated pledge applies only to whole shell eggs, not those used as ingredients in other products. All other major UK supermarkets remain on track to meet the 2025 cage-free deadline. Sean Gifford, managing director of the Humane League UK, welcomed the renewed commitment but urged the retailer to act sooner. After breaking their original promise to stop keeping hens in cruel cages by 2025, Iceland is finally doing the right thing. Of course, wed rather they move faster than 2027. "But we welcome their renewed commitment and thank all those who took action to make this happen. Mark our words: well be holding Iceland to this promise, and making sure no hen is left behind. The renewed pledge comes after widespread campaigning by the charity, including a petition spearheaded by actress Joanna Lumley and signed by over 70,000 people. I believe that the British public are committed to seeing farmed animals treated with kindness and decency, said Ms Lumley. However, there is no better symbol of cruelty to farmed animals than a hen in a cage. Activists also staged demonstrations at Iceland stores across the UK and held protests outside the companys headquarters in Deeside, intensifying public scrutiny. Only one in four waste crime are being reported, despite more than half of farmers and landowners falling victim, the Environment Agency has warned. Farmers are being urged to report all incidents of illegal waste dumping, as figures show that nearly three-quarters of waste crime goes unreported. The stark warning comes as the agency publishes its latest National Waste Crime Survey, revealing that 57% of landowners and farmers have been impacted by waste crime, yet only 12% reported the most recent offence they experienced. Illegal waste dumping often orchestrated by organised criminal gangs continues to plague rural land and private property. The waste industry, landowners, and farmers who responded to the survey estimate that 35% of waste crime is linked to organised crime groups, drawn by lucrative profits. It follows a major investigation last year which saw three men convicted for dumping more than 26,000 tonnes of baled waste at 17 locations across England. The criminals had posed as legitimate operators, offering low-cost waste disposal to waste sites before abandoning the materials. Earlier this year, a Hertfordshire farmer was forced to pay out thousands of pounds after clearing 40 tonnes of illegally dumped waste from her land. Under a new plan laid out recently by the government, rogue operators dealing in illegal waste could face up to five years in prison. Steve Molyneux, deputy director for waste regulation at the Environment Agency, emphasised the serious damage caused by illegal waste activity, describing it as a toxic crime that harms communities, the environment, and the wider economy. He said: The Environment Agency is determined to use all our powers and resources to stop waste criminals, but we cannot achieve this alone. Our survey shows almost three quarters of waste offences go unreported, so we urge industry and the public to help us stop waste criminals faster by sharing what they know about the people carrying out these heinous crimes. The financial and environmental impact of the crime on farmers, landowners and the waste industry is immense. According to the survey, 52% reported losses exceeding 50,000 from illegal waste sites, while 44% suffered costs due to illegal waste exports. Sam Corp, head of regulation at the Environmental Services Association, highlighted the scale of the problem, pointing to the fact that over half of British farmers and landowners have been affected by illegal waste dumping. He said: The survey findings are further evidence of the waste crime epidemic facing the UK, much of which is perpetrated by organised crime groups. It is essential that we all exercise our duty of care to ensure waste does not fall into criminal hands and that, across society, we report all waste crime when we see it to help the authorities identify and stop the culprits. Support for Welsh farmers converting to organic has been officially reinstated this week under the new Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). For the first time since 2022, farmers can now apply for financial assistance to begin the two-year process of transitioning to organic methods, following the Welsh governments unveiling of the SFS. The move has been welcomed by organic campaigners as a boost for nature-friendly farming and domestic food security. Support for farmers already operating organically was reinstated in 2024 after pressure from the Welsh Organic Forum. However, until now, no support has been available for new entrants to organic production. The SFS, set to fully launch in 2026, includes an "Optional Layer" of actions, with organic conversion among them. The conversion period is often the most financially challenging stage for farmers, as they must adhere to organic standards without yet being able to market produce as organic. Under the scheme, a range of payment rates will be available depending on farm type, and up to 500 per year will be offered to cover certification costs during the transition. Haydn Evans, Head of Farming Cymru at the Soil Association and chair of the Welsh Organic Forum, praised the development. He said: We are delighted to see Welsh government recognising the many benefits that organic farming delivers for the environment by reopening this vital support for organic conversion. "This welcome commitment reflects decades of the governments investment in healthy soils, nature-rich farms and pioneering food businesses via support for organic. "It also provides much needed reassurance and clarity to all farmers across Wales who can now look to invest in sustainability on their farms with more confidence. The organic market has seen a decade of growth but for too long we have seen this demand largely being met by imports with organic farmland remaining largely static." The application window for organic conversion opens today and closes on 12 September. Applications can be made online via the Welsh government website. This support is part of a broader overhaul of agricultural funding in Wales. The SFS will replace the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), which is being phased out by 2028. At a time when everyone is just seeking Insta-worthy pictures (so much so that cafes are designed with this in mind, not the food) and where each person has become a blogger thanks to a phone camera, what if someone says travel does not have to be about postcard-perfect pictures or struggling to get leave to do it, but about curiosity and courage? Wouldnt we take notice. Enter entrepreneur Ankitha Rajendran traveller, storyteller, and founder of Journeys With Ankitha. She brings in a refreshing and honest perspective with her travels to 108 countries in her debut memoir, Why Not? (Indie Press). Travelling across different lands solo, Ankitha took on all the challenges of safety and possibilities as she went from Afghanistan to Syria and Gabon to Turkmenistan. More than anything, I hope this book inspires at least one person and helps shift how people think. This book is for anyone whos ever been told you cant whether by society, fear, or circumstance. For me, travel wasnt an escape but a way to fully embrace life, she shares. We present to you a slice from one of her travels the excerpt on The Democratic Republic Of Congo. Democratic Republic Of Congo August 2023 When you feel the tug of the wild, listen its the voice of something ancient calling you home. Jane Goodall Wild and Raw. Theres something about these words that stirs a primal yearning. They conjure images of untouched wilderness, the kind that speaks in whispers and roars, beckoning you to step beyond the comforts of the known. The Democratic Republic of Congo, the first chapter in this category, is the very embodiment of wild and raw a place that refuses to be tamed, demanding to be experienced on its own terms. Ankitha Rajendran Nestled in the heart of Central Africa, the DRC is a land of contrasts, its vastness stretching across more than 2.3 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest country on the continent. With Kinshasa as its bustling capital a city of over 17 million people, pulsating with life, it feels almost paradoxical that just beyond the urban sprawl lies one of the worlds last true wildernesses. Image: Shutterstock; For representative purposes only The very word Congo rolls off the tongue like a whispered secret, a place that exists somewhere between the mystical and the real. Before I even set foot on its soil, the Democratic Republic of Congo had already taken root in my imagination a labyrinth of dense rainforests, murmuring rivers, and shadowed trails where life unfolds in ways both ancient and untamed. As the plane descended into Kinshasa, I felt a pull deep within, as if the land itself was summoning me, daring me to come closer, to listen to its heartbeat. This was a place where time didnt merely pass; it draped itself over the land, thick and languorous, entwined with the vines and the lives they cradled. My journey began in the embrace of the Congo Basin, an emerald world that stretched beyond the horizon. Towering trees arched like cathedral spires above me, their leaves whispering a language older than words. The air was heavy with the scent of earth, damp and fertile, a living testament to the millions of stories that had played out here, of survival, resilience, and quiet rebellion. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purpose only I had come to Congo chasing the echoes of its incredible biodiversity, but it was more than scientific curiosity that led me here. This was a pilgrimage, a quest to encounter the soul of a place that holds one of Earths greatest treasures: its rainforests. These sprawling, pulsating lungs of the planet were a world unto themselves, sheltering creatures that felt like mythical beings come to life. The gorillas were what drew me in most fiercely. Id seen them before, in Ugandas Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, but the thought of meeting them again in Congo stirred the same breathless anticipation. Gorillas, with their dark, soulful eyes, seemed to hold a mirror to humanityreminding us of what we share and what we stand to lose. Yet, Congo was not just about its iconic wildlife. It was the Okapi, slipping like a whispered secret through the underbrush; the countless birds, their plumage a kaleidoscope of impossible hues; and the hidden creatures whose names I might never know, but whose existence enriched this lush, breathing masterpiece. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purpose only Every step I took deeper into the forest was a step away from the known and toward something elemental. The guide Emmanuel, one of the guardians of this sanctuary, spoke of his land with reverence while I added, Did you know that Congo is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet? Did you know the Congo River is the deepest river in the world? This river, the second longest in Africa, wasnt just a geographical marvel; it was the lifeblood of the country. Flowing through the equator, the Congo River Basin feeds the worlds second-largest rainforest, a lush expanse that regulates the Earths climate. To trek through its dense foliage is to step into the lungs of the planet. Gorilla Encounters The morning began before the sun had risen, the air buzzing with quiet energy and the thrill of expectation. Today was more than an adventure it was a pilgrimage into the untamed world of mountain gorillas. As the first streaks of light painted the horizon, I laced up my boots and adjusted my backpack. The journey ahead promised to test both my endurance and my spirit. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purposes only By a little past 7 a.m., I stood at the edge of the national park, where sunlight streamed through the canopy in golden shafts, casting an ethereal glow on the forest floor. Every breath was heavy with moisture, tinged with the scents of damp earth and blossoming greenery. Around me, the jungle hummed with life a chorus of chirping birds, buzzing insects, and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures. Mosi, my guide, moved with the surety of someone who had walked these paths for nearly two decades. His presence was reassuring, a living link between this raw, unpredictable wilderness and my cautious steps. Keep your eyes open and your steps light, he said with a grin, his voice carrying a note of excitement. Out here, theyll find you as much as youll find them. The trail wound through a kaleidoscope of textures and colors: gnarled roots curling out of the earth like ancient fingers, ferns brushing against my legs, and towering trees cloaked in emerald moss. Each step was a sensory immersion the crunch of leaves underfoot, the soft brush of vines against my arms, and the occasional burst of color as butterflies flitted by in hues of electric blue and fiery orange. Congo is like that, wild and raw, Mosi said, stepping effortlessly over a fallen log. Its untamed, yet everything here has a place, a rhythm. Even us. His words hung in the air, a reminder that we were merely guests in this ancient, intricate ecosystem. Suddenly, Mosi stopped. His body tensed, head tilted as though catching a whisper from the forest itself. Listen, he murmured, raising a finger for silence. I held my breath, ears straining against the cacophony of birdsong and rustling leaves. Then, faint and deep, it came a low, resonant rumble that seemed to reverberate through the trees. A gorillas call. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purpose only The air grew thick with anticipation as we moved forward, each step cautious, deliberate. The forest seemed to close in around us, vines hanging like green curtains and the canopy above weaving a living roof. The light dimmed, creating a sense of intimacy, as though the jungle was drawing us into its secret heart. And then, there they were. Through a break in the foliage, I saw them a family of gorillas nestled in a sunlit clearing. My heart leapt, a rush of awe and disbelief washing over me. A mother sat serenely, cradling her baby against her chest. Her powerful arms, capable of immense strength, held the tiny creature with infinite tenderness. Nearby, a juvenile swung playfully from a low-hanging branch, its laughter-like calls blending with the forest symphony. Look, Mosi whispered, motioning for me to kneel. I sank behind a shrub, peering through its leaves like a voyeur into an extraordinary moment. The mother gorillas eyes caught mine deep, liquid pools of warmth and ancient wisdom. She scanned her surroundings with calm vigilance, her gaze both protective and curious. The baby, no larger than a human toddler, clung to her fur, its tiny hands gripping tightly as if seeking security in this vast, untamed world. To the left, a young male ventured closer to us, his glossy black coat shimmering in the dappled sunlight. He moved with a mix of confidence and curiosity, plucking wildflowers from the forest floor with meticulous care. One by one, he tossed them into the air, the petals catching the light as they floated down like confetti a spontaneous celebration of lifes simple joys. Can you believe how close we are? Mosi murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. I nodded, unable to tear my eyes away. The gorillas interactions were mesmerizing gentle touches, playful nudges, and an unspoken bond that seemed to radiate from their every movement. It was as though the world had narrowed to this single, perfect moment, leaving behind the chaos of modern life. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purpose only The mother gorilla shifted slightly, adjusting her baby as she let out a soft grunt. The juvenile, emboldened by a burst of energy, scampered toward the young male, who greeted it with a playful shove. Their laughter-like sounds filled the clearing, a melody of innocence and connection. Time felt suspended as I watched, each second stretching into an eternity of wonder. Here, in the heart of the forest, life unfolded in its purest form uncomplicated, unhurried, and profoundly beautiful. Out here, Mosi said softly, his words heavy with meaning, were not just visitors. Were witnesses. And maybe, just maybe, protectors too. As the family of gorillas began to move, melting back into the emerald embrace of the forest, I felt a pang of longing. This was their worldwild, raw, and breathtakingly free. And for a fleeting moment, I had been part of it. The realization was humbling, a reminder of our shared responsibility to preserve the fragile, magnificent tapestry of life that binds us all. Secure your visa, yes. Pack your essentials, certainly. But more than that, pack your capacity to listen. Bring your willingness to be vulnerable, to learn, to let this land and its people change you. Image: Shutterstock; For representational purpose only Travel is not always a search for the spectacular; sometimes, it is a pilgrimage into the raw, unfiltered essence of what it means to be human. And in the Congo, that essence will meet you at every turn in the laughter of children, the courage of a mother, the wisdom of a guide, and the wild, indomitable spirit of the land itself. When you leave, you will not leave unchanged. And that is the greatest gift this journey can offer. Why Not? Author: Ankitha Rajendaran Publisher: Indie Press Pages: 297 Price: Rs 399 Ebook available Also Read: Find Out Why This Book Should Be In Every Bakers Kitchen US President Donald Trump has announced a trade framework with Japan, imposing a 15-per cent reciprocal tariff on goods imported from the latter. We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90 per cent of the Profits, Trump posted on his social networking platform Truth Social. President Donald Trump has announced a trade framework with Japan, imposing a 15-per cent reciprocal tariff on goods imported from the US. Japan will invest $550 into the US, which will receive 90 per cent of the profits, Trump posted on Truth Social. He also announced a trade deal with the Philippines that would impose a tariff of 19 per cent on its goods, while US items would face no tariffs. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of JobsThere has never been anything like it, he noted. The United States will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan, he added. Japan would open its economy to American autos and rice, the Presidents post said. The 15-per cent tariff on goods imported from Japan is less than the 25-per cent rate that Trump, in a recent letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said would be levied beginning August 1. Important details of the deal, however, remained unclear from his social media post. Trump also announced a trade framework with the Philippines that would impose a tariff of 19 per cent on its goods, while American products exported to that country would face no tariffs. He also reaffirmed his 19-per cent tariffs on Indonesia. The United States ran a $69.4 billion trade imbalance on goods with Japan last year, according to the US Census Bureau. It had a trade imbalance of $17.9 billion with Indonesia and an imbalance of $4.9 billion with the Philippines. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) Diljit Dosanjh has recently been in the news due to his upcoming movie, Sardaar Ji 3. The movie is a sequel to the first two instalments of the horror-comedy franchise. However, the movies release is in jeopardy due to the casting of Pakistan actress Hania Aamir. Now, Diljit has taken to social media to seemingly address the debacle with the release.He shared a cryptic post about another movie, but fans cannot help but relate it to the current debacle. Censored before release? Diljits story has been doing rounds on social media and has created quite the stir online. Many are convinced that the actor indirectly shared his response for the current issues hes facing with Sardaar Ji 3.However, the post is for Punjab 95, a movie on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. It revolves around extra-judicial killings of Sikh men in the 1990s. As the censor board has asked for 120 cuts in the film, Khalras widow, Paramjit Kaur Khalra, had opposed the same. Diljits Instagram story is about the battle regarding Punjab 95 but it has also stirred serious speculations.As for Sardaar Ji 3, the latest reports suggest that the movie wont be releasing in the Indian theatres. It will hit the theatres overseas on June 27, 2025. The criticisms come amid India and Pakistans ongoing tensions, related to Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. Hania had also shared a post with alleged anti-India remarks, which had sparked quite the debate. Social media users had also urged Diljit to not work with the Pakistani artiste in Sardaar Ji 3.Not just Hania, many other Pakistani artistes social media accounts have been banned in India. The accounts of Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Mawra Hocane and more have been banned, owing to the tensions between the two neighbouring countries. The release of Fawad and Vaani Kapoors film Abir Gulaal has also been pushed indefinitely. Veteran theatre legend Ratan Thiyam, one of Indias most influential dramatists, passed away in Imphal early Wednesday. He was 77. According to state officials, Thiyam breathed his last at around 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences after a prolonged illness. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian theatre, especially in the Manipuri performing arts scene, where he was a pioneering voice. He founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal in 1976, which became a hub of theatrical innovation. Under his guidance, the group performed across India and internationally, showcasing Manipuri traditions to audiences worldwide. Thiyam also served briefly as the Director of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, from 1987 to 1988, shaping a generation of actors and theatre-makers. Awarded the Padma Shri in 1989, Thiyam was known for his unique style of storytelling, blending traditional Manipuri theatre with experimental forms, poetic symbolism, and deep cultural reflection. Over the years, his work gave Manipuri theatre global recognition and brought new dimensions to Indian drama.He founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal in 1976, which became a hub of theatrical innovation. Under his guidance, the group performed across India and internationally, showcasing Manipuri traditions to audiences worldwide. Thiyam also served briefly as the Director of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, from 1987 to 1988, shaping a generation of actors and theatre-makers. The Manipur government issued a formal statement mourning his death, saying, We mourn the passing of Padma Shri recipient and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, Ratan Thiyam, a towering figure in Indian theatre and a cultural icon of Manipur. Tributes poured in from across the country. Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh called Thiyam a true luminary of Indian theatre and added, His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty. Thiyams theatre often explored philosophical, spiritual, and socio-political themes. His most celebrated plays include Chakravyuh, Urubhangam, and Andha Yug, where he fused Indian mythology with modern-day reflections. His productions were known for their powerful visuals, minimalist sets, and deep emotional impact. Beyond his artistry, Ratan Thiyam was also admired for his calm wisdom, disciplined craft, and commitment to cultural preservation. His legacy continues through his students, his writings, and the stagecraft he revolutionized. India has lost a cultural gem, but Ratan Thiyams work will continue to inspire artists and audiences for generations. U.S. grapples with dire wildfire season in financial strain Xinhua) 13:20, July 23, 2025 WASHINGTON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The United States endures one of its most intense wildfire seasons in over a decade after U.S. President Donald Trump slashed federal funds for firefighting, environment and climate action programs amid rising government deficit. WORSE WILDFIRE SEASON The 2025 wildfire season ranks among the most active on record. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, more than 41,000 wildfires have burned nearly 3 million acres as of late July -- well above the 10-year average. Major blazes include Oregon's megafire engulfing over 95,000 acres, California's Madre Fire burning more than 80,000 acres, and Arizona's White Sage Fire scorching approximately 58,000 acres. These crises unfold amid significant cuts to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) workforce. A Reuters investigation found the agency lost around 5,000 employees -- roughly 15 percent of its workforce -- in just five months due to buyouts and early retirements. Field reports suggest that the loss of support staff forced some firefighters into administrative roles and contributed to supply shortages on the front lines. The Trump administration also sought to cut funding for NASA's Earth science programs, including satellite missions critical to wildfire monitoring and environmental response. Although Congress restored much of this funding, Science magazine and other observers noted that the repeated attempts to reduce funding have created long-term uncertainty for climate data continuity and fire risk planning. SOARING DEFICIT Despite these cutbacks, the Trump administration has aggressively pursued its "Big and Beautiful" infrastructure agenda -- spotlighting border walls, highways, and rural broadband expansion. Significant funding has reportedly been authorized for select projects, though many remain underfunded or stalled. This surge in spending coincides with declining federal revenues and ballooning deficits. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects a 1.9 trillion dollar deficit in fiscal year 2025 -- approximately 6.2 percent of GDP -- and pegs federal debt held by the public at nearly 100 percent of GDP this year, expected to surpass post-World War II highs by 2027. Over the next decade, cumulative deficits are expected to reach 21 trillion dollars, with public debt climbing to 122 percent of GDP by 2034. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the service reached nearly 99 percent of its goal to hire over 11,300 firefighters by mid-July -- on par with last year's levels. USFS Chief Tom Schultz has mobilized all "red-carded" wildfire personnel and will rehire some with buyout offers. However, New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich criticized the sweeping buyouts and temporary rehiring of probationary USFS staff, calling the approach "gutting" the service. Firefighter groups report firefighters continue to fill non-fire roles such as answering phones, cleaning toilets, mowing lawns and further straining operations. POLICY PARADOX As the United States faces one of its most severe wildfire seasons in years, experts warn against a troubling disconnect in federal policy. Despite escalating wildfire risks driven by climate change, critical funding for firefighting and climate science has been reduced even as infrastructure spending surges. This imbalance threatens the nation's ability to protect communities and ecosystems effectively. With frontline firefighting capacity shrinking amid soaring expenditures, emergency readiness and fiscal stability are both at risk. Analysts caution that failing to invest adequately in fire prevention jeopardizes not only today's safety but also the country's long-term resilience. As federal debt is surpassing post-war levels -- projected to exceed 120 percent of GDP in the coming decade -- experts stress the urgent need to balance fiscal discipline with essential investments in public safety and climate resilience to safeguard national security and environmental health. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 22, 2025) - Highland Critical Minerals Corp. (CSE: HLND) (FSE: U8X) ("Highland" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its intention to undertake a strategic reorganization of certain of the Company's mineral exploration assets and entities pursuant to which the Company proposes to spin-out (the "Spin-Out") shares of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Highland Red Lake Corp. ("Highland Red Lake"), which holds an unexercised option to acquire a 100% interest in mining claims in the Red Lake District of Ontario initially comprised of 3,366 hectares with a further option to acquire an additional 3,050 hectares (the "Red Lake Option"). It is the view of the Company, that the Spin-Out is in the best interest of its shareholders and the most effective way to unlock the value of the Red Lake Option as well as its Sy gold property in Nunavut and its lithium Church property in Ontario while enhancing shareholder value in Highland. The intention to undertake the Spin-Out was prompted, in part, by Highland's desire to separate its Red Lake Option from its other mineral properties located in diversified territories and in distinct geological events, and to enable the capital markets to value the Red Lake Option in the highly prolific Red Lake Mining District separately from its other properties, with a view to increasing shareholder value for each corporate entity. In connection with the Spin-Out, Highland Red Lake. In addition, the Company believes that separating Highland Red Lake is expected to accelerate the development of all of its mineral opportunities as it reduces the capital requirements of Highland as a parent company yet still provides opportunity for the specific funding of Highland Red Lake and what management believes to be its highly prospective exploration and development opportunity driven in part by a surging gold market. The recently announced $150,000 initial exploration program on the Red Lake Optionis in addition to the previously announced summer lithium exploration expenditures on the Company's Church Property in the Quetico District of Ontario, Canada consisting of a mobile metal ions soil sampling program designed to identify lithium anomalies on areas of the Church property where field crews have established there is no exposed bedrock. The Church Project is strategically located in a lithium-rich area, surrounded by high-grade pegmatite projects, with significant infrastructure to support exploration and development. Highland is also presently reviewing various data sources including historical reports by past professionals and explorationists as the Company plans to initiate an exploration program in the near future for what it believes is a highly prospective Sy property in Nunavut, the extent of which will be subject to budgeting. Edward Yew, CEO of Highland states, "Due to recent significant corporate developments by the Company acquiring both the Sy property located in the Yathkyed Lake Greenstone Belt in Nunavut, Canada and the Highland Red Lake Option located on the famed Red Lake greenstone belt in Ontario, Canada added to the Company's lithium exploration Church Property in the Quetico District of Ontario, Canada we now have two new highly prospective gold properties located in two established gold production areas of Canada. Continued exploration and development of all three mineral opportunities in a timely manner may stress our capital resources." "We believe that this spinout makes sense for our shareholders as it is designed to enable the shareholders of record of Highland to benefit from direct ownership in two companies each holding highly prospective mineral opportunities. Management is optimistic about the future of each resulting company and believes the Highland shareholders of record should share in the result." The Spin-Out, is anticipated to be effected by way of a share capital reorganization effected through a plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") pursuant to the arrangement provisions of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). The proposed reorganization would involve, among other things, Highland transferring shares of Highland Red Lake (the "Consideration Shares") to shareholders of record of Highland. Under the Arrangement, Highland's shareholders will receive the Consideration Shares and new shares of Highland, on a pro rata basis, in exchange for existing shares of Highland. It is also anticipated that Highland will retain a portion of the Consideration Shares.. Upon completion of the Spin-Out, Highland Red Lake will become a "reporting issuer" in the same jurisdictions in Canada that Highland is a reporting issuer. In connection with the Spin-Out, Highland Red Lake intends to undertake one or more private placement offerings of securities to raise proceeds to develop the Red Lake Option and for general working capital purposes. It is expected that completion of the Spin-Out will be subject to a number of conditions which are customary for similar transactions including, but not limited to, shareholder approval and approval of the Supreme Court of British Columbia (the "Court"), as well as other standard closing conditions. There can be no assurance that the Spin-Out will be completed as proposed, or at all. Highland will have no obligation to proceed with the Spin-Out, and may elect, at its sole discretion, not to proceed with the Spin-Out for any reason whatsoever. Final terms of the Spin-Out, the Record date and determination to proceed remain subject to, among other things, further tax and securities considerations, and Highland expects to provide a further update to shareholders in due course. In connection with the Spin-Out, Highland expects to enter into a definitive agreement with Highland Red Lake to set out the terms of the Spin-Out within the next 30 days. In connection therewith, Highland intends to file its initial submissions with the "Court" to obtain an interim order to call a shareholder's meeting to, among other things, approve the Spin-Out. Highland plans to complete the Spin-Out early in the 4th quarter of 2025. Additional details regarding timing of the Spin-Out will be provided in future news releases. Further details will be provided in a management information circular (the "Circular") to be prepared and filed in connection therewith. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Circular to be prepared in connection with the Spin-Out, any information released or received with respect to the foregoing matters may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Highland Red Lake should be considered highly speculative. ABOUT HIGHLAND CRITICAL MINERALS CORP. Highland is a mineral exploration and development company. Its activities consist of acquiring and exploring, mining properties to enhance shareholder value as it proceeds with the exploration work on the Church Property among other mining properties it may acquire and develop. For more information, please visit https://highlandcritical.com Forward-Looking Statements Management cautions that past results or discoveries on properties near Highland's may not necessarily indicate mineralization on the Company's property. This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this new release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's plans, expectations, and anticipated activities with respect to the Company's planned exploration programs on the Red Lake Gold Camp and Church Property, anticipated exploration expenditures, potential for mineralization or discovery, the Company's future exploration and development activities, and the timing and focus of planned work. 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. The Company has applied several material assumptions in making such forward-looking statements, including without limitation: the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; the Company's ability to secure additional financing on acceptable terms, or at all; risks related to unanticipated operational or technical difficulties; changes in exploration plans due to a variety of contingencies; the interpretation and actual results of current and future exploration activities; risks relating to government regulation and permits, environmental laws, changes in commodity prices, and general economic, financial, market, and business conditions; the possibility of cost overruns, unforeseen liabilities, and other related risks; and general economic, market, and business conditions. Forward-looking information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include risks relating to: the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; the availability of financing; the results, timing, and success of exploration activities; the results of third-party evaluations; changes in project plans as contingencies arise; unanticipated operational difficulties; interpretation and actual results of exploration activities may differ from expectations; regulatory and permitting approvals; and general economic, market, and business conditions; risks relating to the mining industry; and other risk factors discussed in the Company's long-form prospectus dated May 9, 2025. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Disclaimer This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or any securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States unless registered under the 1933 Act and any applicable securities laws of any state of the United States or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements is available. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259724 SOURCE: Highland Critical Minerals Corp. As a pioneer in automotive technology, BWI Group has carved out a legendary path of iterative breakthroughs at the very frontier of chassis engineering. When BWI Group invented and launched the MagneRide magneto-rheological damper in 2002, the company has propelled MagneRide on an extraordinary voyage of technical innovation-an adventure of innovation, challenge and bold breakthroughs. Every generation of MagneRide embodies BWI Group's relentless pursuit of sharper vehicle dynamics and superior ride comfort. Constant innovation drives the company to perfect its craft, ensuring that each new iteration delivers a palpably better driving experience. MagneRide has elevated vehicle handling and comfort while widening its reach from exotic super-cars and premium nameplates to a far broader market. First Generation: Started from laboratory magic The story begins in a laboratory brimming with curiosity and ambition. In 2002 the first-generation MagneRide damper was mass produced for the very first time, endowing the debut application-the Cadillac STS-with unprecedented handling prowess. Second Generation: Reinforced system favoured by super-cars The second-generation MagneRide damper entered the market in 2006. Upgraded magneto-rheological fluid and a newly designed piston armed the system for both enhanced comfort and assured control in varied conditions. Europe's top super-car marques soon extended olive branches, validating MagneRide's unparalleled competitiveness in the high-performance arena. Third Generation: Leap with speed passion In 2011, the third-generation MagneRide damper's evolution came with dual-coil technology pushing response frequency to 1,000 adjustments per second. Meanwhile, dual-layer sealing made the system more durable, and slashed maintenance costs. Fourth Generation: Benchmark in smart-drive era Arriving in 2020, the latest generation of MagneRide suspension system once again stunned the industry and raised the bar for future mobility. Thanks to a cutting-edge ECU, wheel-end accelerometers and an IMU, magneto-rheological fluid reacts in a lightning-quick 0.5 millisecond. BWI Group's proprietary algorithmic refinements significantly enhance vehicle stability, ushering in a brand-new driving paradigm. The latest MagneRide suspension system endures more than 300,000 km of gruelling service and operates flawlessly in extremes ranging from -30 C to 105 C. It conquers every environment beyond the laboratory, and many flagship models have adopted the system. The fourth generation MagneRide suspension system paves the way for boundless possibilities in automotive innovation. From the inaugural invention, through the benchmark-setting fourth generation, every stride attests to BWI Group's tireless quest for technical excellence and precise understanding of market needs. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250716302718/en/ Contacts: aneta.kwiatkowska@bwigroup.com Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie. Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht. In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter. Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR MEDIA RELEASE Baar, Switzerland--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Half-Year 2025 Results To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10892/259751_figure1.png Download PDF Increased profitability despite subdued revenues HALF-YEAR 2025 HIGHLIGHTS Revenue at CHF 225.4m, -6.5% (- 4.6% organic FX adj.). Healthcare segment grew 7.5% (organic FX adj.) driven by Dental and Surgery. Consumer & Industrial segment declined 10.9 % organic FX adj. on low commercial activity and project delays in Beauty Adj. EBITDA margin at 19.9%, +80 bps YoY on higher Dental volume and continued gross profit margin improvements in Industry Segment gross profit margin up 390 bps to 47.9%, positively impacting EBIT as a percentage of revenues (+170 bps) Free Cash Flow at CHF 11.4m (+50.9% yoy); Operating Net Cash Flow (ONCF) at CHF 15.3m (-24.1% yoy) reflecting inventory build-up mainly in Dental to mitigate potential tariff impact (-24.1% yoy) reflecting inventory build-up mainly in Dental to mitigate potential tariff impact Well on track with Growth and Efficiency program: CHF 15m savings impact secured, CHF 8.5m realized in first half 2025 and 70 efficiency initiatives initiated Acceleration of cost out initiatives and CHF 3m additional actions identified, specifically targeted at Beauty business unit Strengthened leadership team: new CHRO, CTO and Business Unit Head Drug Delivery Revised 2025 revenue guidance: decline similar to that seen in H1 2025 (FX adj.) Confirmed 2025 profitability guidance: adjusted EBITDA margin 18% to 19% Confirmed mid-term guidance: CAGR in revenue of above 4%, adj. EBITDA margin of above 20% CEO Rene Willi said: "We are on track with our strategy to pivot to high growth/high margin healthcare businesses. We have significantly improved profitability, which on the one hand is driven by strong growth in our most profitable Healthcare businesses Dental and Surgery, and on the other hand, by the impact of our Growth and Efficiency program. Our group revenues have been impacted by lower Beauty sales, which were the result of lower commercial activity, project delays and a high comparable in H1 2024. We have accelerated additional cost out measures of CHF 3m targeted at our Beauty business unit to maintain our high profitability levels." Revenue key figures To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10892/259751_figure2.png GROUP REVIEW In the first half of 2025, medmix generated revenue of CHF 225.4 million, 6.5% lower year-on-year. Foreign exchange rate effects of -2.0% negatively impacted underlying organic volume growth during the period which stood at -4.6%. Compared to the second half of 2024, however, Group revenues declined by -7.1% on a reported basis and by -5.1% organically. Healthcare segment revenue grew strongly in the first half of 2025, with two of the three Healthcare business units delivering robust year-on-year organic growth well above market rates, Surgery 26.1% and Dental 10.1%. Adverse impacts from Drug Delivery offset some of this growth. Healthcare segment revenues increased by 6.2% on a reported basis and 7.5% organically, with the difference of -1.3% entirely due to foreign exchange effects. Dental business unit organic revenue grew 10.1% year-on-year due to successful growth outside the historically strong impression material sector, resulting in above market growth additionally supported by stronger market conditions. Sequential organic revenues were down slightly 0.3%, partly due to uncertainty generated by US tariffs timing. Drug Delivery business unit revenue declined by 4.9% organically as H1 2024 included some non-repeat project milestones due to close out of a customer project. Surgery business unit revenue saw a 26.1% organic increase due to a lower base in H1 2024. Our customer base is growing as we move our commercial and manufacturing HQ to Atlanta. A continuation of the positive growth trajectory of the Dental and Surgery business units' revenue is expected in the second-half, at a more normalized level. The second source impact in the Drug Delivery business unit will again partly offset this growth. Consumer & Industrial segment organic revenue declined by 10.9%, driven by continued weakness in the Beauty markets and overall low consumer confidence. Industry business unit revenue reached CHF 63.5 million in the first half of 2025, organically 1.3% lower versus the first half of 2024. Sequentially, the Industry business unit delivered robust organic growth of 5.6% as we continue to deliver our full portfolio from our plant in Valencia and expand our greenLine offering. Management remains cautious of the global economic landscape and its impact on the Industry business unit. Beauty business unit organic revenue declined year-on-year by 17.7% to CHF 73.8 million, due to project delays and lower commercial activity in our business. In comparison, H1 2024 saw Beauty's highest half-year revenue in five years, where it benefited from a high level of launch activity after the lifting of covid restrictions. We expect this slower activity to continue in the second half. We have seen an increase in customer projects activity in Q2 2025, which will provide revenue growth momentum in 2026. Additionally, medmix has accelerated decisive cost-out measures to adapt the cost base to business volume and protect profitability. Gross profit margin, segment gross profit Segment gross profit, which does not include shared cost and cost absorption, grew by 1.6% to CHF107.9 million, despite a decline in Group revenues, delivering a strong margin of 47.9%. Healthcare segment gross profit increased by CHF 3.9 million, a growth of 7.5% year-on-year, in line with the revenue growth. Resulting segment gross profit margin was a strong 62.7%. Dental and Surgery segments margin growth was partly offset by the profit pressure from the Drug Delivery business unit as it remains in ramp-up mode, with more projects than commercial product sales. Consumer & Industrial first-half segment gross profit decreased by 4.0% year-on-year, due to the impact of decrease in Beauty volumes. Importantly, the segment delivered a robust gross profit margin of 38.3%, an increase of 370bps year-on-year, driven by operational efficiencies from our Growth and Efficiency program, driving margin expansion across both Industry and Beauty business units. Adjusted EBITDA Group Adjusted EBITDA was CHF 44.9 million, a decrease of 2.5% year-on-year, with our Growth and Efficiency program limiting the impact on profitability resulting from lower revenues. While there was a decline in the absolute Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin was 19.9%, having grown sequentially for two consecutive halves, compared to 19.1% in H1 2024 and 19.2% in H2 2024. The group delivered a robust profitability improvement of 80bps year-on-year, offsetting the impact of lower volumes and additional investments made in our Growth and Efficiency program. The year-on-year and sequential improvement is primarily driven by the continuation of strong Dental volumes and operational efficiencies in Consumer and Industrial segment. EBIT increased year-on-year from CHF 12.9 million to CHF 15.7 million, EBIT as a percentage of revenues increased 170bps to 7.0%. Net income Net income increased by CHF 1.4 million to CHF 6.9 million (thereof CHF 6.8 million attributable to shareholders of medmix AG) from CHF 5.6 million (thereof CHF 5.2 million attributable to shareholders of medmix AG) in the prior period. Operating Net Cash Flow (ONCF) Operating Net Cash Flow for H1 2025 decreased to CHF 15.3 million compared to the same period a year ago (CHF 20.1 million) mainly due to inventory build-up in the Dental business unit while Free Cash Flow increased from CHF 7.6 million in H1 2024 to CHF 11.4 million in the first half of 2025, mainly due to lower CAPEX, which may however increase in the second half. GROWTH & EFFICIENCY PROGRAM Our Growth and Efficiency program launched in 2024 aims at enhancing growth by re-allocating resources to our strategic priorities and improving our performance by strategically reducing costs. With CHF 15 million savings impact secured and CHF 8.5 million realized in the first half of 2025, we are on track with our goal for H1 2025. We have implemented 70 efficiency initiatives, such as reducing headquarters and support functions or automating productions processes in our factories. We will also continue to invest in our sales organization and in R&D, which will ensure we remain at the forefront of innovation in both our segments. This program will not impact our ability to maintain our innovation pace and quality standards and will ultimately lead to an increase in our service levels. STRENGTHENED LEADERSHIP TEAM In the past half year, we have significantly strengthened our management team with seasoned leaders. Jasper Den Ouden joined medmix as of March this year as Chief Human Resources and Sustainability Officer. Jasper brings extensive international HR leadership experience. He most recently served as Chief Human Resources Officer at SR Technics Group in Zurich where he led HR for 2,200 employees and drove key initiatives in digital transformation, talent development, ESG and organizational change. We are also very happy to welcome Francisco Faoro and Oliver Haferbeck to our Executive Leadership Team. Oliver was appointed as the new Head of Drug Delivery Business Unit in June. He brings a wealth of international leadership experience in the healthcare and medical technology sectors. Most recently, he served as Head of Gerresheimer Advanced Technology and CEO of Sensile Medical AG, where he led innovation in advanced drug delivery systems. His tenure at Gerresheimer was marked by a strong focus on strategic growth, technological advancement, and operational excellence. Francisco Faoro joined medmix as Chief Technology Officer in May. Francisco brings extensive international leadership experience in technology and innovation. He held multiple senior leadership roles at Straumann Group, successfully preparing'multiple implant innovations creating significant growth momentum. Prior to his tenure in the dental field, Francisco had several managerial positions in brand management and product development within the orthopedic and polymer processing industries. OUTLOOK Based on H1 2025 actuals and our outlook for the full year, we now expect a full year revenue decline similar to that seen in H1 2025 on an FX adjusted basis. Our 2025 guidance for profitability with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 18-19% remains unchanged, as does our mid-term guidance -over a three-year period- with a compound annual growth rate in revenues of above 4% and an adj. EBITDA margin above 20%. Key figures To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10892/259751_figure3.png The medmix half-year report is available to download here. Half-year 2025 results presentation Webcast participation medmix management will present the half-year results 2025 as a webcast on July 23, 2025, at 08:30 CET . A webcast invitation was sent to medmix news subscribers early July. If you have not received it and wish to participate, please click here to pre-register by 08:00 CET latest to receive the link to the webcast and dedicated dial-in details. Webcast playback The playback of the webcast will be available shortly after the event under the same link. Key dates in 2025/2026 February 26, 2026 Full-year results 2025 About medmix medmix is a global leader in high-precision delivery devices. Our customers benefit from a dedication to innovation and technological advancement that has resulted in over 900 active patents. Our 14 production sites worldwide together with our highly motivated and experienced team of nearly 2,700 employees provide our customers with uncompromising quality, proximity, and agility. medmix is headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. Our shares are traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX: MEDX). www.medmix.swiss Disclaimer This document may contain forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, projections of financial developments, market activity, or future performance of products and solutions containing risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to change based on known or unknown risks and various other factors that could cause actual results or performance to differ materially from the statements made herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259751 SOURCE: medmix AG CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The commodity currencies such as Australia, the New Zealand and the Canadian dollars strengthened against their major counterparts in the Asian session on Wednesday amid improving risk sentiment, following global trade developments as markets await potential trade deals between the U.S. and its partners ahead of the August 1 deadline. Market sentiment also improved after U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a 'massive' trade deal with Japan eased concerns about the tariff war. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened nations with an enormous 35% tariff on its imports to the U.S. if a deal is not reached by August 1, with countries forcing themselves to arrive at a 'good deal.' Trump has threatened to hit most of the EU bloc's exports with 30% tariffs, leaders are focused to avert the enormous levies. Reports suggest that the bloc is planning to retaliate if the ongoing talks fail. In economic news, data from Westpac-Melbourne institute showed that Australia's Leading Index's six-month annualized growth rate decreased from 0.11 percent in May to 0.03 percent in June. In the Asian trading today, the Australian dollar rose to 8-day high of 0.6569 against the U.S. dollar and a 2-day high of 96.56 against the yen, from yesterday's closing quotes of 06554 and 96.17, respectively. If the aussie extends its uptrend, it is likely to find resistance around 0.66 against the greenback and 98.00 against the yen. Against the euro and the Canadian dollar, the aussie edged up to 1.7881 and 0.8929 from Tuesday's closing quotes of 1.7913 and 0.8915, respectively. The aussie may test resistance around 1.77 against the euro and 0.90 against the loonie. The NZ dollar rose to a 9-day high of 0.6015 against the U.S. dollar, from Tuesday's closing value of 0.5999. The next possible resistance level for the kiwi is seen around the 0.61 region. Against the yen and the euro, the kiwi advanced to 2-day highs of 88.35 and 1.9530 from yesterday's closing values of 88.03 and 1.9569, respectively. If the kiwi extends its uptrend, it is likely to find resistance around 89.00 against the yen and 1.93 against the euro. Against the Australian dollar, the kiwi edged up to 1.0931 from yesterday's closing value of 1.0925. On the upside, 1.10 is seen as the next resistance level for the kiwi. The Canadian dollar rose to nearly a 3-week high of 1.3594 against the U.S. dollar, from Tuesday's closing value of 1.3605. The loonie may test resistance around the 1.34 region. Against the yen and the euro, the loonie advanced to 2-day highs of 108.24 and 1.5955 from yesterday's closing quotes of 107.88 and 1.5969, respectively. If the loonie extends its uptrend, it is likely to find resistance around 109.00 against the yen and 1.58 against the euro. Looking ahead, Canada new housing price index for June, U.S. MBA mortgage approvals data, U.S. existing home sales for June, U.S. EIA crude oil data and Eurozone flash consumer confidence for July are slated for release in the New York session. Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX 2025 AFX News Lhyfe is paving the way for crowdfunding in the green hydrogen sector by inviting the general public to support the development of its production sites. Lhyfe's initiative allows the general public to finance the decarbonisation of mobility and industry, while contributing to the energy sovereignty of local areas and their re-industrialisation. First campaign of its kind in green hydrogen production in Europe, with the participation of nearly 1,200 citizen investors and investment amounts ranging from 300 to 75,000 - a strong signal of public confidence in the sector. Nantes (France), 23 July 2025 - 7:30 am - Lhyfe (EURONEXT: LHYFE), one of the world pioneers in the production of green and renewable hydrogen for the decarbonisation of mobility and industry, announces the successful completion of his first crowdfunding campaign on the Lita.co platform. The campaign, launched in May, made it possible for the general public to invest in four of Lhyfe's sites in France and Germany. This is a first for Lhyfe, but also for the renewable green hydrogen production sector, responding to the growing popularity among the general public of this accessible format for investing and taking action. The initiative aimed at promoting a collective effort with respect to the energy transition. Nearly 1,200 people took part in the fundraising campaign, investing amounts ranging from 300 to 75,000, for a total of 2.5m raised through bonds. The average amount raised in Lita fundraising campaigns is typically around 0.5m, with an average of around 320 investors - these indicators were exceeded by Lhyfe, reflecting the success of this crowdfunding operation. This funding by the general public, through the emerging model of crowdfunding, comes in addition to the 53m project financing agreement signed in April 2025 with financial partners and also covering these four sites. Matthieu Guesne, founder and CEO of Lhyfe: "We would like to extend our warmest thanks to all those who took part in this initiative. Every day, our 200 employees work to decarbonise our society and to ensure the energy sovereignty and re-industrialisation of our regions. In doing this, we are creating jobs and business - we are delighted to involve the general public in this dynamic. We believe that it is important for citizens to have the opportunity to become involved in the development of this new, clean energy source, produced in the local area, for the local area. Together, we are laying the foundations for a more sustainable society. Thank you for your commitment!" About Lhyfe Lhyfe is a European group devoted to energy transition, and a producer and supplier of green and renewable hydrogen. Its production sites and portfolio of projects seek to provide access to green and renewable hydrogen in industrial quantities, and enable the creation of a virtuous energy model capable of decarbonizing entire sectors of industry and transport. In 2021, Lhyfe inaugurated the first industrial-scale green hydrogen production plant in the world to be interconnected with a wind farm. In 2022, it inaugurated the first offshore green hydrogen production pilot platform in the world. Since then, it has installed three new sites and currently has several sites under construction or expansion across Europe. Lhyfe is represented in 12 European countries and had 199 staff at the end of 2024. The company is listed on the Euronext market in Paris (ISIN: FR0014009YQ1 - LHYFE). More information on Lhyfe.com Contacts Lhyfe - Business press relations Nouvelles Graines Clemence Rebours +33 (0)6 60 57 76 43 c.rebours@nouvelles-graines.com Lhyfe - Financial press relations ACTUS Anne-Charlotte Dudicourt +33 (0) 6 24 03 26 52 acdudicourt@actus.fr Lhyfe - Investor relations LHYFE Yoann Nguyen ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: mZqaZpttZG7Jy3FpZsdqZ5KXamqWw2WXmmKampSeZcnKbW6WyW1mapfHZnJklm1r - 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-0-93185-250723_pr-lhyfe-closing-lita_eng.pdf This press release does not constitute a prospectus within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended, nor an offer to the public, and may not be communicated, published or distributed, directly or indirectly, in the United States (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States and the District of Columbia), Canada, Australia, Japan, South Africa or any other country in violation of the laws in force in the relevant jurisdiction. Chassieu (France), 23 July 2025 - 8:00 a.m. Amoeba (FR0011051598 - ALMIB), an industrial greentech specialized in the development of natural microbiological solutions based on the patented use of amoebae, announces the success of its capital increase to support its industrial and commercial rollout. The Company has therefore raised a gross amount of 14 million, including 9 million in cash contributed by institutional and individual investors, and 5 million by offsetting receivables. On this occasion, Benoit VILLERS, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Amoeba, said: "I would like to express my sincere thanks to the investors who have placed their trust in us and to our partners who have contributed to the success of this operation. We now have sufficient financial resources to support our industrial and commercial growth and create value for our shareholders based on our unique expertise, which is increasingly recognised by the leading names in the biocontrol and cosmetics industries." Terms and conditions of the Operation Total demand amounted to 14.5 million, with 89% coming from institutional investors (including the guarantors of the transaction) and 11% from individual investors via the PrimaryBid platform. In accordance with their commitments, Nice & Green has subscribed for 8 million, including 3 million in cash and 5 million in debt offset, and Koppert has subscribed for 0.8 million. The Operation, for a total amount of 13,999,999.11 including issue premium, was carried out through the issue, without preferential subscription rights and without priority period, of 17,273,287 new ordinary shares through two separate but simultaneous offers: Through an accelerated bookbuilding private placement (ABB) with institutional investors in France and Europe, managed by the Global Coordinator and Bookrunner, as well as by offsetting receivables, for up to 15,70,121 shares including the underwriters of the transaction, and Through a public offering to individual investors in France via the PrimaryBid platform, for a total of 2,003,166 shares. The price per new share for all offers is equal to 0.8105, corresponding to a discount of 20% compared to the average share price of the Company weighted by the volumes of the last five (5) trading days preceding 22 July 2025, which stood at 1.0131. The price per new share for all offers is 0.8105, corresponding to a discount of 20% on the average share price of the Company weighted by the volume of the last five (5) trading days preceding 22 July 2025, which stood at 1.0131. The settlement and delivery of the new ordinary shares to be issued under the Global Offering and their admission to trading on the Euronext Growth market of Euronext Paris are scheduled for 25 July 2025. The new ordinary shares will be of the same class and fungible with the existing shares, will carry all the rights attached to the existing shares and will be admitted to trading on the Euronext Growth market of Euronext Paris under the same ISIN code FR0011051598. Impact of the Operation on the shareholding structure Distribution of capital and voting rights prior to the launch of the capital increase: Shareholders Number of shares % of capital Number of voting rights % of voting rights Nice & Green 8,318,734 16.11% 8,318,734 16.12% Management 2,082,245 4.03% 2,082,245 4.03% Floating 41,211,618 79.80% 41,211,618 79,85% Self holding of shares 33,366 0.05% Total 51,645,963 100% 51,612,597 100% Distribution of capital and voting rights after the capital increase: Shareholders Number of shares % of capital Number of voting rights % of voting rights Nice & Green 18,245,110 26.47% 18,245,110 26.49% Management 2,082,245 3.02% 2,082,245 3.02% Koppert 987,045 1.43% 987,045 1.43% Floating 47,571,484 69.02% 47,571,484 69.06% Self holding of shares 33,366 0.05% - - Total 68,919,250 100% 68,885,884 100% Guarantee commitments It is specified that the guarantee commitments totalling 5.6 million that had been signed by certain investors (the "Guarantors") have been partially exercised up to 90% of their commitment. In consideration for their guarantee commitments, the guarantors received remuneration corresponding to 10% of the amount of their subscription commitment as a guarantee. Guarantor Allocation EUR Stock allocation Friedland 449,067.25 554,062 Gestys 179,627.06 221,625 Giga 44,907.37 55,407 Hamilton Stuart 89,813.94 110,813 Maitice Gestion 449,067.25 554,062 Sully Patrimoine 134,720.50 166,219 TreeCap BV 538,880.38 664,874 Vatel 898,133.69 1,108,123 Nice & Green 2,245,328.15 2,770,300 Abstention and retention commitments This transaction is supported by leading partners, including Nice & Green, Amoeba's reference shareholder, which holds approximately 16% of the capital prior to the transaction and 26% after the transaction, and which has chosen to recommit itself with a lock-up agreement covering its entire stake for 90 days. Financial intermediaries and advisors to the company TP ICAP Midcap is acting as Global Coordinator, Lead Manager and Bookrunner for the Reserved Offer. As part of the PrimaryBid Offer, investors were able to subscribe via the PrimaryBid partners listed on the PrimaryBid website (primarybid.fr). Lamy Lexel is acting as legal advisor. ACTUS finance & communication is acting as financial communications advisor. Risk factors The public's attention is drawn to the risk factors relating to the Company and its business, set out in Chapter 3 of the universal registration document filed with the Autorite des Marches Financiers (the 'AMF') on 17 April 2025, available free of charge on the Company's website (https://amoeba-nature.com/investisseur/). The occurrence of any or all of these risks could have a negative impact on the Company's business, financial position, results, development or prospects. The risk factors presented in this document are the same today. In addition, investors are advised to consider the following risks specific to this Global Offering: (i) the market price of the Company's shares may fluctuate and become lower than the subscription price of the shares issued under the Global Offering, (ii) the volatility and liquidity of the Company's shares may fluctuate significantly, (iii) sales of the Company's shares may take place on the market and have a negative impact on the market price of its shares, and (iv) the Company's shareholders could suffer potentially significant dilution as a result of any future capital increases necessary to provide the Company with additional financing. Disclaimer The Company states that, to the best of its knowledge, no potential investor is in possession of privileged information. This press release does not constitute a prospectus within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended, nor is it an offer to the public and may not be communicated, published or distributed, directly or indirectly, in the United States (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States and the District of Columbia), in Canada, Australia, Japan, South Africa or any other country in violation of the laws in force in the relevant jurisdiction. The Global Offering is not subject to a prospectus requiring approval by the AMF. About Amoeba : Founded in 2010, Amoeba is a greentech company based in Chassieu (Lyon, France) whose ambition is to become a major player in the treatment of microbiological risk based on the patented use of amoebae in the plant protection and cosmetics sectors. With know-how that is unique in the world and protected by numerous patents, Amoeba is currently the only company capable of exploiting the full potential of the Willaertia amoeba on an industrial scale and cultivating it in sufficient volumes to offer biological solutions that constitute a viable alternative to the chemical products widely used today. Amoeba is currently focusing on the global biocontrol market for plant protection and on the cosmetics market. As the marketing of plant protection products is subject to obtaining local regulatory authorisations, the Company has carried out the necessary regulatory procedures and filed registration dossiers in Europe and the United States. With regard to the active substance, it has already obtained approval in 2022 in the USA and a positive and definitive report from EFSA in Europe. Product approvals are expected in the coming months. The cosmetic application does not require prior approval from a competent authority in Europe or the United States. The cosmetic ingredient is already registered on the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list, paving the way for it to be marketed worldwide except in China, where local approval is required. Amoeba is listed on Euronext Growth (ALMIB). The company is a member of the Bpifrance Excellence network and is eligible for the PEA-PME scheme. For more information, visit www.amoeba-nature.com. Contacts: Amoeba ACTUS finance & communication Droit Devant Agency Chief Executive Officer Jean-Francois DOUCET +33 (0)4 26 69 16 00 jf.doucet@amoeba-nature.com Investor relations Pierre JACQUEMIN-GUILLAUME +33 (0)1 53 67 36 79 amoeba@actus.fr Financial press relations Serena BONI +33 (0)4 72 18 04 92 sboni@actus.fr Business and general public press relations Laetitia PINTO +33 (0)7 64 83 39 85 pinto@droitdevant.fr Disclaimer This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Amoeba which are based on its own assumptions and estimates and on information that is currently available to us. However, Amoeba gives no assurance that the estimates contained in such forward-looking statements will be verified, with these estimates subject to numerous risks, including the risks set forth in Amoeba's universal registration document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers) on April 17, 2025 under number D.25-0281 and available on the Amoeba website (www.amoeba-nature.com). The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Amoeba or not currently considered material by Amoeba . The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause Amoeba's actual results, financial conditions, performance, or achievements to be materially different from such forward-looking statements. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: xnCbaJlsk2zHmJyeZptom5VsapmWx5OdbpWYyGFxl8iZam2Sxm1hbJmWZnJklm1o - 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-0-93182-amoeba_cp_resultats-ak_vdef-eng.pdf Kunstliche Intelligenz, Magnificent Seven, Tech-Euphorie seit Monaten scheint an der Borse nur eine Richtung zu existieren: nach oben. Doch hinter den Rekordkursen lauert eine gefahrliche Wahrheit. Die Bewertungen vieler Tech-Schwergewichte haben historische Extremniveaus erreicht. Shiller-KGV bei 39, Buffett-Indikator auf Allzeithoch schon in der Dotcom-Ara war der Markt kaum teurer. Hinzu kommen euphorische Anlegerstimmung, IPO-Hypes ohne Substanz, kreditfinanzierte Wertpapierkaufe in Rekordhohe und charttechnische Warnsignale, die Erinnerungen an 2000 und 2021 wecken. Gleichzeitig drucken geopolitische Risiken, Trumps aggressive Zollpolitik und saisonale Borsenschwache auf die Perspektiven. Die Gefahr: Aus der schleichenden Korrektur konnte ein rasanter Crash werden und der konnte vor allem uberbewertete KI- und Chipwerte hart treffen. In unserem kostenlosen Spezial-Report zeigen wir Ihnen, welche Tech-Aktien am starksten gefahrdet sind und wie Sie Ihr Depot vor dem Platzen der Blase schutzen konnten. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Funding will deepen market presence, win enterprise clients, and scale AI Agent adoption across India, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa MUMBAI, India and SAN FRANCISCO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Gupshup, the global Conversational AI leader, today announced it has raised over $60 million in a funding round combining equity and debt financing from Globespan Capital Partners and EvolutionX Debt Capital. The funding will fuel the expansion of its Conversational AI and messaging platform as well as accelerate go-to-market execution across high-growth markets, including India, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa. This latest investment validates Gupshup's market leadership in helping businesses engage their customers through conversational AI experiences delivered via text messaging or voice. With 50,000+ customers in 130+ countries, Gupshup has consistently been recognized by industry analysts, including Gartner, IDC, and Juniper, for its outstanding AI capabilities and market leadership in the evolving Conversational AI landscape. Across marketing, sales, and support use cases, Gupshup is delivering measurable business impact such as substantially higher conversions and revenues, lower costs, and increased customer satisfaction. The funding will be strategically deployed to enhance sales velocity, product innovation, and deepen market presence across key verticals, globally. Gupshup is experiencing unprecedented demand for its platform, driven by the AI transformation across the world. "Gupshup has turned the vision of Conversational AI into an enterprise-scale reality. We're proud to support their next phase of growth as they expand across emerging markets. With deep AI expertise, robust infrastructure, and relentless execution, Gupshup is redefining how businesses engage customers", said Andy Goldfarb, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Globespan Capital Partners. "From India to UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil, Gupshup's Conversation Cloud and AI Agents are transforming customer and employee interactions. As Meta's Partner of the Year, they're building the foundation for AI-powered messaging at scale." "Gupshup has been the market leader at every stage of industry evolution from basic messaging to conversational AI across text and voice, which has led to consistent revenue growth and margin expansion," said Rahul Shah, Partner at EvolutionX Debt Capital. " Gupshup is well-poised to lead the AI transformation worldwide, and we are excited to work with them and support them in this journey. With this investment, we continue our strategy of investing in category-leading growth stage companies in Asia". "We're at an inflection point where AI Agents are transitioning from experimental technology to business-critical infrastructure, leading to extraordinary global demand for our solutions. Businesses recognize that conversational AI is driving enormous competitive advantages through superior customer experiences. This funding positions us to capture that global opportunity", said Beerud Sheth, Founder and CEO, Gupshup. The company's platform enables businesses to automate complex customer interactions while maintaining personalized, human-like conversations. Through solutions like Conversational AI Agents, Click to Chat Ads, AI Campaign CoPilot, Agent Assist, Personalize, and Campaign Manager, businesses can handle everything from product discovery and purchasing to customer support and retention, representing a significant evolution from traditional chatbots to autonomous agents. Gupshup's platform already powers 120 Billion+ messages annually for thousands of enterprises, with advanced AI capabilities that position it as the comprehensive solution for businesses seeking to implement conversational engagement at scale. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2735989/Gupshup_Technologies.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2182479/Gupshup_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/gupshup-raises-over-60-million-from-globespan-and-evolutionx-to-fuel-conversational-engagement-growth-and-market-expansion-302511742.html ODIOT SA Becomes a Patron of the Musee des Arts Decoratifs Paris, July 23, 2025 at 8:45 a.m. ODIOT SA (Euronext Access, FR0004152700 - MLODT) announces its commitment as a patron of the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, a landmark Parisian institution dedicated to promoting the heritage of decorative arts in France. By joining the museum's Partners Club, Odiot SA reaffirms its dedication to preserving French artistic heritage and passing on exceptional craftsmanship. This sponsorship is a natural continuation of the history of Maison Odiot, which is represented in the museum's collection by 33 silversmithing pieces and 176 drawings from the works of Jean-Baptiste-Claude Odiot. "It is an honor for Odiot to support the Musee des Arts Decoratifs, a place of memory and inspiration for today's and future generations of designers," said Gilles-Emmanuel Trutat, Chairman and CEO of Odiot SA. "Our commitment aims to foster dialogue between tradition and innovation and to contribute to the revival of the decorative arts." Odiot SA's support will contribute not only to the promotion of the museum's permanent collections and the organization of cultural and educational events for the Odiot SA Shareholder-Patrons Club, but also to the acquisition of Odiot pieces by the museum. About ODIOT SA ODIOT SA is the controlling holding company of ODIOT, a French luxury brand founded in 1690, and one of the most prestigious goldsmiths since the 18th century. A supplier to royalty, the Empire, and all European courts, ODIOT possesses unique expertise in creating exceptional decorative pieces and cutlery in precious metals (solid silver, vermeil, gold). ODIOT is distinguished as Company of Living Heritage (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant) by the French Minister of Economy. Investor Relations Contact: investors@odiotholding.com Press relations: odiotholding@aelium.fr ODIOT SA (Euronext Access, FR0004152700 - MLODT.FR) www.odiotholding.com ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: yJhyZ8mXl2vHyp6eYZtll2VqaWlpmJSZZpKWx5ebZsrKa2mSyJqSZpaYZnJklmpq - 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-0-93154-20250723_pr_odiotsa_mad_en.pdf DUSSELDORF, Germany, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- LenioBio GmbH has been awarded EU4Health funding by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), which implemented the corresponding call for proposals on behalf of the European Commission's Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA). The project will focus on further development of the cell-free protein expression system, ALiCE, as an innovative, rapid and on-demand medicine manufacturing technology with strategic value for Europe, fitting into the mission of HERA. The project has been awarded a grant of EUR 3.7M and commenced on 1stJuly 2025, continuing until late 2027. This EU4Health action contributes to the European Union's strategic objective to strengthen the availability, accessibility, and affordability of essential medicines. By supporting the development of innovative manufacturing processes, HERA aims to enable more efficient, cost-effective, scalable, sustainable, and environmentally cleaner production of medicines. LenioBio will contribute with a project titled "Innovative protein medicine biomanufacturing with Continuous-Modular ALiCE", where key goals for the project include: Scaling ALiCE lysate production by optimising process yields, increasing batch size and transitioning to continuous manufacturing lysate production by optimising process yields, increasing batch size and transitioning to continuous manufacturing Expanding ALiCE capabilities for targeted classes of protein medicines such as vaccines, multispecific antibodies and growth factors by engineering new functionalities and demonstrating modular protein production methods at scale capabilities for targeted classes of protein medicines such as vaccines, multispecific antibodies and growth factors by engineering new functionalities and demonstrating modular protein production methods at scale Laying the groundwork for GMP-grade lysate production by establishing analytical qualifications, quality systems, and regulatory filing package "This grant is another significant milestone for LenioBio. It enables us to scale our platform and broadens its application for medicine production, providing a future proof solution for the agile production of novel and complex proteins." said Andre Goerke, CEO of LenioBio. LenioBio's project has been awarded the STEP Seal by the European Commission. The STEP Seal is granted to proposals deemed strategically important for Europe's technological and health sovereignty (https://www.leniobio.com/press-release/leniobio-earns-prestigious-eu-step-seal-a-signal-of-excellence-for-investors/). ALiCE Cell-Free Protein Expression System is designed to scale seamlessly from research to production, enabling the rapid synthesis of complex proteins without relying on living cells. The platform is already supporting vaccine development and drug discovery by enabling fast, flexible protein production. With support from the EU4Health grant, LenioBio is now advancing ALiCE to meet the demands of clinical use and large-scale manufacturing. About LenioBio: LenioBio GmbH is a protein expression platform company committed to the advancement of transformative technology for the discovery, development, and large-scale production of proteins, unconstrained by the limitations of the cell. LenioBio was established as a legal entity in Germany in September 2016, with offices in Dusseldorf and R&D and production labs in Aachen. For more information about LenioBio, please visit our website at www.leniobio.com and follow LenioBio on LinkedIn. About EU4Health, HaDEA and HERA The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA) implements the vast majority of the EU4Health programme by managing calls for proposals and tenders from 2021 to 2027. The programme and its calls represent an ambitious response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but go beyond crisis response to address the resilience of European healthcare systems and contribute to a healthier Europe. EU4Health funds actions that include increasing the availability, accessibility, and affordability of medicines and medical products, boosting preparedness for cross-border health threats, and advancing innovation in healthcare. Learn more here (https://health.ec.europa.eu/funding/eu4health-programme-2021-2027-vision-healthier-european-union_en) The European Commission's Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) was established in response to lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. HERA supports projects that strengthen the EU's capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to serious health emergencies, ensuring the timely availability of critical medical countermeasures. Learn more here (https://health.ec.europa.eu/health-emergency-preparedness-and-response-hera_en) Media Contact: Akanksha Ranjit Marketing & Communications LenioBio GmbH a.ranjit@leniobio.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2735876/LenioBio_Health_Grant.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2735875/LenioBio_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/leniobio-secures-eur-3-7m-of-eu4health-funding-to-develop-alice-for-cost-effective-and-rapid-production-of-protein-based-medicines-302511105.html VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / BioNxt Solutions Inc. ("BioNxt" or the "Company") (CSE:BNXT)(OTC PINK:BNXTF)(FSE:BXT), a bioscience innovator specializing in advanced drug delivery systems, is pleased to announce the successful formulation of a sublingual thin-film prototype for its lead clinical stage candidate, BNT23001, using the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) cladribine. This proprietary thin-film formulation is being developed for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). The cladribine API was used by BioNxt's European drug development partner, Gen-Plus GmbH & Co. KG, based in Munich, Germany, to develop and produce prototype oral dissolvable films (ODFs). These initial formulations demonstrated promising characteristics in terms of drug loading, film uniformity, and disintegration time, confirming the suitability of cladribine for thin-film drug delivery. This formulation milestone strengthens the foundation for clinical batch manufacturing and further optimization, which are ongoing as part of BioNxt's strategy to initiate a human bioequivalence study in the second half of 2025. Strategic Milestone in BioNxt's Cladribine Development Path BNT23001 is designed to offer a patient-centric alternative to conventional oral cladribine tablets, such as Mavenclad, by delivering the drug through a rapidly dissolving sublingual film. This approach aims to improve treatment adherence, particularly for MS patients who experience dysphagia, a common symptom that affects the ability to swallow. BioNxt's proprietary thin-film platform enables precise and rapid drug absorption via the oral mucosa, offering potential advantages in bioavailability, convenience, and patient experience over traditional oral or injectable formats. In parallel with formulation progress, BioNxt continues to advance its intellectual property strategy. The company believes that continued validation of the product and further experimental data will support additional IP filings, with patent protection representing a key upcoming milestone for BNT23001. BioNxt has already initiated patent nationalization processes in Europe, the United States, and Canada. "The successful formulation of the first cladribine-containing thin-film prototype marks a major step forward in the clinical development of BNT23001," said Hugh Rogers, CEO of BioNxt Solutions. "It also underscores the strength of our drug delivery platform as we move toward human trials and eventual commercial readiness." BioNxt expects to continue formulation optimization and begin in vitro performance testing, with preclinical evaluation to follow as the Company advances toward regulatory readiness and potential out-licensing opportunities. About BioNxt Solutions Inc. BioNxt Solutions Inc. is a bioscience innovator focused on next-generation drug delivery technologies, diagnostic screening systems, and active pharmaceutical ingredient development. The Company's proprietary platforms-Sublingual (Thin-Film), Transdermal (Skin Patch), and Oral (Enteric-Coated Tablets)-target key therapeutic areas, including autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and longevity. With research and development operations in North America and Europe, BioNxt is advancing regulatory approvals and commercialization e?orts, primarily focused on European markets. BioNxt is committed to improving healthcare by delivering precise, patient-centric solutions that enhance treatment outcomes worldwide. BioNxt is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange: BNXT, OTC Markets: BNXTF and trades in Germany under WKN: A3D1K3. To learn more about BioNxt, please visit www.bionxt.com. Investor Relations & Media Contact Hugh Rogers, Co-Founder, CEO and Director Email: investor.relations@bionxt.com Phone: +1 778.598.2698 Web: www.bionxt.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bionxt-solutions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bionxt Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the development, testing, regulatory approval, and commercialization of BioNxt's sublingual drug products, as well as projected milestones, anticipated partnerships, and potential market opportunities. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to significant risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, many of which are beyond BioNxt's control. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, delays in regulatory approvals, negative outcomes from clinical trials, changes in market demand, fluctuations in funding availability, or disruptions in supply chains. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. BioNxt undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected include changes in market demand, regulatory developments, delays in clinical trials, fluctuations in financing availability, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen competitive pressures. Mavenclad is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by BioNxt Solutions Inc. SOURCE: BioNxt Solutions Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/bionxt-delivers-positive-results-in-patented-cladribine-sublingual-th-1051825 NMPA grants Syntellix product approval for the world's most important future market with more than 1.4 billion people Syntellix' product approval for China is the largest and most important success in the company's history; product approval in China was the company's most important strategic and operational goal Syntellix had previously already been granted the accelerated 'innovative pathway' by the NMPA due to the exceptional benefits of its products In total, product approvals for Syntellix products have accumulated to date in countries with more than 5.5 billion inhabitants; product approvals had already been achieved in 73 countries and regions on five continents before current success in China Development of the prioritized core markets of China, India, and ASEAN is being carried out via Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd in Singapore as manufacturing facility & sales hub Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd has been supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB); Syntellix AG targets IPO on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) Syntellix and Syntellix Asia CEO Claassen: "After 7 years of focusing on China, we have achieved what almost everyone considered impossible. As a startup with its operational heart in Singapore, we have written a pioneering story worldwide, whose global medical success can now no longer be stopped. I sincerely thank the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) for its far-sighted contribution to the operational and structural foundation of our rollout in Asia by providing expertise and financial support for the establishment and expansion of our production facility in Singapore, which will now also become an Asia-wide and global sales hub as planned." HANOVER, Germany, and BEIJING and SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Syntellix AG, parent company of Singapore-based, Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd, has received product approval for the People's Republic of China from the Chinese NMPA (National Medical Products Administration) in Beijing, which is responsible for the government regulation, registration, and monitoring of medical devices for the Chinese market. This product approval for the world's most important future market, with more than 1.4 billion people, is by far the greatest and most important success in the company's history. Syntellix AG had declared the development of the vast Chinese market its top strategic priority following Professor Dr Utz Claassen's assumption of office as CEO of the company. After Syntellix had already previously been granted the accelerated 'innovative pathway' by the NMPA due to the particular advantages of its products, the initial approval process has now been completed extremely successfully. It was the most complex, intensive, and sophisticated approval process Syntellix has ever undergone in terms of product safety and quality management systems. Syntellix now has obtained product approvals in countries with more than 5.5 billion inhabitants, or more than two thirds of the world's population. Syntellix had previously received product approvals in 73 countries and regions on five continents, including all of Europe, Australia and New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Israel, and Saudi Arabia, as well as fast-growing, demographically dynamic countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand, as well as the world's most populous country - India. China and India, with a combined population of almost 3 billion, open up entirely new dimensions of potential for the company in many respects. Syntellix' highly innovative bioabsorbable metallic implants are produced by Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd which is based in JTC's Tuas Biomedical Park. The Economic Development Board (EDB) had provided initial grants to Syntellix to support the establishment of its manufacturing presence and global sales hub in Singapore. With the product approval now achieved in China, labelled by German news platform 'Pressefeuer' a 'strategic triumph' that could revolutionize the world of biomedical engineering and is a decisive step for the Hanover-based company', Syntellix has achieved its most important strategic and operational goal. The strategic decision to develop the prioritized core markets of China, India, and ASEAN through Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd in Singapore, and to locate and expand the main production site in the ultra-modern and highly efficient island nation of Singapore, has proven to be both expedient and entirely correct. Establishing an Asia-centric production chain was strategically and operationally the right decision, as the production and sales hub in Singapore can supply and serve most of the world better and faster than from Germany or Europe. More than 3.5 billion people live in China, India, and the ASEAN region alone, which is more than 40 times the population of the Federal Republic of Germany, while at the same time experiencing significantly greater dynamics in terms of population growth, market growth, and economic power and perspectives. For this purpose - establishing and expanding production in Singapore, tapping into the South Asian, Southeast Asian, and East Asian markets, and obtaining the necessary product approvals, particularly in China, - Syntellix, CEO Professor, Dr Utz Claassen, who is also Executive Chairman & CEO of Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd in Singapore, relocated his residence from Germany to Singapore more than five years ago in consultation and coordination with the Supervisory Board of Syntellix AG. Syntellix CEO Professor Utz Claassen thus commented very positively on the product approval now achieved in China: "After more than 17 years of work and more than 7 years of focusing on China alone, we have achieved what almost everyone considered impossible. As a startup from Hanover with ist operational heart in Singapore, we have written a pioneering story worldwide, whose global medical success is now unstoppable. Those who win in China are strategically and operationally ideally positioned. The largest hospitals in China individually have higher patient volumes and more operations for our highly innovative products than most countries in the European Union. Without neglecting our homeland, we are proud and grateful to now be able to use our products, which are so beneficial for patients, users, and the healthcare system, in China, with its 5,000 years of cultural history, its magnificent medical tradition, and its unique future prospects. This is a game changer for our company, both qualitatively and quantitatively." Claassen emphasizes both the abstract and concrete positive conditions for the successful development of Syntellix' activities in Asia, and also specifically in Singapore, and he is grateful for the very positive environment here: "I would like to expressly thank our outstanding Chinese partners for their tremendous support and cooperation, and the NMPA for an outstandingly differentiated and structured approval process. I would also like to sincerely thank the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) for its far-sighted contribution to the operational and structural foundation of our rollout in Asia by providing expertise and financial support for the establishment and expansion of our production facility in Singapore, which will now also become an Asia-wide and global sales hub as planned. This will create many attractive jobs in Singapore and set new international standards in biomedical engineering under market conditions that are not found in Germany or Europe, and building on government funding from the Republic of Singapore." Syntellix AG, as a joint-stock company under German stockholding law already a public company, also targets an IPO on the Singapore Exchange (SGX), the preparations of which have already been ongoing for several years with the help of Singaporean banks and law firms, well supported by SGX management under the leadership of its CEO Mr Loh Boon Chye and coordinated by Ms Alice Gwee. About Syntellix: Syntellix AG, a global pioneer in biomedical engineering, materials, and life sciences, is the only company in the world with approvals for bioabsorbable metallic implants in more than 70 countries on five continents, tens of thousands of successful surgeries, and the highest level of patient satisfaction. Syntellix is a global protagonist and market and technology leader in the field of bioabsorbable metallic orthopaedic implants. The company has received numerous prestigious awards and prizes, including the Innovation Award of the German Economy, the German Healthcare Industry Future Award, the German Medical Award, the STEP Award, the "Innovator of the Year" award, the German Innovation Award in Gold, and the Sustainability Award as "Product of the Year." More than 50 medical and scientific publications have meanwhile documented the safety, efficacy, and reliability of the MAGNEZIX implants developed by Syntellix, which have been described as "advantageous" and even "clinically superior" to conventional titanium implants for numerous clinical applications. Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd in Singapore is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Syntellix AG. It is the operational heart of the group. The manufacturing facility for the highly innovative MAGNEZIX implants is located in Singapore, in JTC's Biomedical Park in Tuas. Syntellix Asia Pte Ltd, which in turn has the subsidiaries Syntellix China Pte Ltd, Syntellix Philippines Incorporated in San Juan City, and Syntellix India Private Limited in New Delhi and Jaipur, Rajasthan, serves not only the internationally leading medical hub of Singapore itself with its numerous world-class hospitals, but also major markets in countries throughout the ASEAN region, including Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia." Contact: T +49 511 270 413 50 F +49 511 270 413 79 info@syntellix.com www.syntellix.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/singapore-based-innovative-biomedical-start-up-achieves-strategic-triumph-to-conquer-chinese-med-tech-market-302511787.html RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As China and Saudi Arabia strengthen their ties to explore collaboration opportunities across all sectors, Chinese biopharmaceutical company Henlius is eager to grow deeper roots in Saudi Arabia and leverage its expertise to support the nation's industrial upgrade and transformation. Sheng Yanci, head of Henlius' Saudi joint venture subsidiary and also general manager of global strategy and project management office of Henlius, stated the Hong Kong-listed company, a subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, is establishing joint ventures in Saudi Arabia with SVAX, a subsidiary of the prominent Fakeeh Family business group, to develop, produce and commercialize biopharma products. The construction is progressing as planned. "Henlius will assist our partners in constructing production sites, transferring technologies, establishing quality control systems and implementing management systems," Sheng said. Founded in China in 2010, with focus on oncology, autoimmune and ophthalmic diseases, Henlius has been committed to expanding globally. So far, it has launched six products in China, while four approved in overseas markets. A total of five marketing applications are under review in China, the US and EU. Its products have been distributed in over 50 countries. Sheng said the decision to invest in Saudi Arabia is based on the strong growth potential of the healthcare market. "The local market is characterized by its small yet highly profitable nature," Sheng said. "Our initial entry into Saudi Arabia was facilitated with local distributors. The robust affordability in the region has bolstered our confidence to further localize our development and production." "Chinese say business success depends on three things - tianshi, dili and renhe, which means perfect timing, a promising and profitable market, and strong support. Saudi Arabia is just such a business destination," said Sheng. Looking ahead, Henlius will continue to support Saudi Arabia to develop its biopharmaceuticals chain. Through the joint venture, Henlius will look to extend to neighboring markets including North Africa, Turkiye and other Middle East countries. It will also try to bring Saudi Arabia's capital to China to boost its research and development. "China's biopharmaceutical businesses have a proven record of having high efficiency around the globe. Our venture in Saudi Arabia will extend beyond mere factory construction; it will encompass a comprehensive, long-term strategy aimed at leveraging our expertise to support the local industry," said Sheng. As one of the first Chinese biopharmaceutical companies to launch production in Saudi Arabia, Henlius will respect local culture and advocate cross-cultural communication to foster a mutually beneficial outcome, according to Sheng. So far, Henlius has made presence in nations and regions such as the US, Europe, Japan, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Latin America. The company successfully established collaborations in regional markets to swiftly localize its products and now operations. "As a company rooted in China, our vision extends beyond merely being present in China for the globe; we aim to be a global contributor. This is why we are placing significant emphasis on our endeavors in Saudi Arabia," said Sheng. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/henlius-leads-way-as-bilateral-ties-power-biopharmaceutical-growth-302511793.html EQS-News: CPI PROPERTY GROUP / Key word(s): Bond/Real Estate Final Results of the Tender Offer Memorandum 23.07.2025 / 09:56 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT RELATES TO THE DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION THAT QUALIFIED AS INSIDE INFORMATION WITHIN THE MEANING OF ARTICLE 7(1) OF THE MARKET ABUSE REGULATION (EU) 596/2014. NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY PERSON LOCATED OR RESIDENT IN THE UNITED STATES, ITS TERRITORIES AND POSSESSIONS, ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (THE "UNITED STATES") OR IN OR INTO ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS DOCUMENT. 23 July 2025 Further to the announcement made by CPI Property Group (the "Company") on 15 July 2025 (the "Launch Announcement") in relation to its invitation to holders (subject to certain offer and distribution restrictions) of its outstanding EUR 600,000,000 7.000 per cent. Senior Unsecured Green Notes due 7 May 2029 (ISIN: XS2815976126) (of which EUR 600,000,000 is currently outstanding) (the "Notes") to tender the Notes for purchase by the Company for cash (the "Offer"), the Company today announces (i) the Maximum Acceptance Amount, (ii) the aggregate nominal amount of the Notes validly tendered, (iii) the Final Acceptance Amount, (iv) the details of any Scaling Factor to be applied to Notes, and (v) the aggregate nominal amount of the Notes that will remain outstanding following completion of the Offer. The Offer was made on the terms and was subject to the conditions set out in the tender offer memorandum dated 15 July 2025 (the "Tender Offer Memorandum"). Capitalised terms used in this announcement but not otherwise defined have the meanings given to them in the Tender Offer Memorandum. Final Results The Expiration Deadline for the receipt of valid Tender Instructions in order for Noteholders to participate in the Offer was 4.00 p.m. (London time) on 22 July 2025. As at the Expiration Deadline, a total of (rounded to the nearest EUR 1,000) EUR 313,396,000 in aggregate nominal amount of Notes were validly tendered for purchase pursuant to the Offer. The Company has decided to set each of the Maximum Acceptance Amount and the Final Acceptance Amount at EUR 180,000,000 in aggregate nominal amount of Notes. Accordingly, as the aggregate nominal amount of Notes validly tendered for purchase exceeds the Final Acceptance Amount, the Company will accept all Notes validly tendered for purchase on a pro rata basis, with a Scaling Factor of 56.4344 per cent.. The expected Settlement Date for the Offer and payment of the Purchase Price and Accrued Interest Payment in respect of the Notes accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer is 25 July 2025. Following settlement of the Offer, EUR 420,000,000 in aggregate nominal amount of the Notes will remain outstanding. For Further Information A complete description of the terms and conditions of the Offer is set out in the Tender Offer Memorandum. Further details about the transaction can be obtained from: DEALER MANAGERS Banco Santander, S.A. Ciudad Grupo Santander Avenida de Cantabria s/n 28660 Boadilla del Monte Madrid Spain Attention: Liability Management Email: LiabilityManagement@gruposantander.com Barclays Bank Ireland PLC One Molesworth Street Dublin 2 Ireland D02 RF29 Attention: Liability Management Group Email: eu.lm@barclays.com Goldman Sachs International Plumtree Court 25 Shoe Lane London EC4A 4AU United Kingdom Tel: +44 207 774 4836 Attention: Liability Management Group Email: liabilitymanagement.eu@gs.com TENDER AGENT Kroll Issuer Services Limited The News Building 3 London Bridge Street London SE1 9SG United Kingdom Telephone: +44 207 704 0880 Attention: David Shilson Email: cpi@is.kroll.com Website: https://deals.is.kroll.com/cpi This announcement is released by the CPI Property Group and contains information that qualified as inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 ("MAR"), encompassing information relating to the Offer described above. For the purposes of MAR and Article 2 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/1055, this announcement is made by David Greenbaum, Chief Executive Officer at CPI Property Group. Disclaimer This announcement must be read in conjunction with the Launch Announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum. The offer period for the Offer has now expired and no further tenders of Notes may be made. No offer or invitation to acquire any securities is being made pursuant to this announcement. The distribution of this announcement, the Launch Announcement and the Tender Offer Memorandum in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this announcement and/or the Launch Announcement and/or the Tender Offer Memorandum comes are required by each of the Company, the Dealer Managers and the Tender Agent to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions. 23.07.2025 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases. Archive at www.eqs-news.com News Atos Renewed as a Google Cloud Partner Managed Service Provider, Supporting Continued Cloud Transformation and Innovation Paris, France - July 23, 2025 - Atos, a global leader in digital transformation and managed services, today announced the renewal of its status as a Google Cloud Managed Service Provider (MSP), reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two organizations. This renewal reaffirms Atos' continued excellence in delivering cloud-native services, scalable infrastructure solutions, and end-to-end digital modernization to enterprises worldwide. As a Premier Google Cloud Partner and a certified Google Cloud MSP, Atos will continue to provide advanced support, optimization, and AI-driven management of Google Cloud environments for customers across industries, accelerating their digital journeys to AI solutions and maximizing the value of their cloud investments. The renewed recognition highlights Atos' proven expertise in cloud migration, data analytics, AI, security, and application modernization. "We are proud to be renewed as a Google Cloud Managed Service Provider, a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and delivering measurable outcomes for our clients," said Alexa Vandenbempt, Head of Group Partnerships, Atos. "This renewal strengthens our long-standing strategic partnership and enables us to further support organizations in achieving agility, scalability and sustainable growth. This continues our momentum following our recent Google Cloud Partner of the Year Award for Crisis Response & Resilience." Google Cloud's MSP initiative recognizes partners that meet rigorous standards for technical proficiency, customer success, and service delivery. Atos' renewal follows a comprehensive audit of its capabilities, customer impact, and ongoing investment in Google Cloud technologies and talent development. This milestone builds on a decade-long collaboration between Atos and Google Cloud, which includes joint go-to-market initiatives including co-innovation labs, Bare Metal Solution, Google Cloud VMware Engine and Database Modernization for AI. For more information, please visit: Atos and Google Cloud - Atos *** About Atos Group Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands - Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris. The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space. Press contact Isabelle Grange | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0) 6 64 56 74 88 Attachment Dave Demski to Board of Directors and David Simon to Scientific Advisory Team BERN, CH / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / LEM Surgical, a developer of next-generation robotic technologies for hard tissue surgery, today announced two key additions to its leadership and advisory teams. Industry veteran Dave Demski has joined the company's Board of Directors, and renowned surgical technology strategist David Simon has joined the Scientific Advisory Team. Dave Demski Dave Demski Demski brings over two decades of experience in spine innovation and medical robotics. A founding executive of Globus Medical, he played a pivotal role in building one of the most successful spine companies in the world. He led the commercialization of ExcelsiusGPS, the market-leading robotic platform for spine surgery, as President of Emerging Technology. As CEO, Demski guided Globus from $600 million to nearly $1 billion in revenue, growing its market capitalization to over $8 billion. "I am passionate about the role robotics can play in improving outcomes and becoming the standard of care in spine surgery," said Demski. "While current technologies have delivered meaningful benefits, they represent only the beginning. The Supervised Autonomous Humanoid Robot being developed by Yossi and the team at LEM Surgical is truly transformational. I'm honored to help bring this technology to life." Joining the Scientific Advisory Board, David Simon brings 25+ years of global leadership at Medtronic, where he spearheaded the development and integration of enabling technologies in cranial and spinal surgery-including navigation, robotics, imaging, and data analytics. His expertise spans engineering, technology management, business development, and strategic planning. "The first wave of hard-tissue robotics has hit a ceiling due to legacy design choices and outdated architectures," said Simon. "LEM Surgical is pushing beyond those limits with a fundamentally new approach-enabling higher functionality, automation, and clinical value. I'm excited to contribute to a company redefining what robotic surgery can achieve." "Dave and David have been beacons of vision and technological innovation for decades, and we feel proud and honored to have them join us to help crystalize our mission to improve health and well-being by advancing the field of robotic surgery," said Yossi Bar, CEO and Founder of LEM Surgical. LEM Surgical is headquartered in Bern, Switzerland, with U.S. commercial operations based in Tampa, Florida. The company is focused on advancing robotic systems that elevate standards of care in spine and other hard tissue procedures. The company's flagship platform, the Dynamis Robotic Surgical System, is distributed through its U.S. subsidiary, LEM Surgical Inc. For more information, visit www.lemsurgical.com Media Contact:communications@lemsurgical.com SOURCE: LEM Surgical AG Related Images David Simon David Simon View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/lem-surgical-strengthens-leadership-with-two-medtech-veteran-executiv-1047349 Executive-interview video series from Rockwell Automation highlights how data-driven operations help grow capabilities, boost resilience and empower people ROME, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world's largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced that it has significantly extended its popular ROKStudios video series with new insightful content. Compelling viewing for industrial executives, the latest season includes interviews with a variety of business owners, CEOs, CTOs and senior executives, who share insights into how they and their companies are harnessing the power of digital technologies. "Digitalization is now a business imperative if you want to succeed in a modern industrial environment," explains Jan Van Den Bossche, regional vice president, technology & domain expertise, EMEA, Rockwell Automation. "There are now very few barriers to digital transformation, and the benefits - even in the short term - can be immense, as illustrated by the examples in these interviews. I urge people to watch the new series, as they will find commonality with their own business pressures, operational goals and financial outcomes." Videos in the new season include: Cristiana DiChio and Marcello Ciancio from Tetra Pak in separate interviews discuss digitally driven strategic thinking, and how their company is harnessing the power of AI to boost the resilience of its supply chains and to define its cybersecurity posture - both of which have been heavily supported through a collaboration with Rockwell Automation. Martina Stefanon, from IMA Digital and Simone Capponcelli from IMA E-Commerce, also in separate interviews, walk viewers through AI-powered services and modular automation, respectively, and how the IMA Group is using smart machines, operational data and analytics to foster constant performance improvements and create competitive advantages. Daniele Tocco, site director at Fluorsid, explains how his company has harnessed advanced process control to overcome raw material variability, which not only reduces consumption, but also underpins a new, lower-carbon approach to its operations. Graham Jennings, digital solutions director at inControl Systems explains how people and technology must work together to create a strong foundation for Industry 4.0 aspirations, suggesting that partnerships and culture turn control into a competitive edge. Paolo Panada, co-owner and CEO of HS Automation explains why automation should complement, not replace, human ingenuity, and how people and machines can work together, even in tough times, to innovate and extract mutual operational value. Kenneth Sjo Samuelsen, CTO/technical director at Mongstad Tavleteknikk discusses the challenges faced when addressing modern cyber legislation with legacy technologies. He explains how life-extension projects that prioritize digital workflows can deliver a new lease of life while setting the stage for future autonomous operations. Recorded at Rockwell's recent ROKLive EMEA event in Rome, the new videos - alongside others featuring executives and domain specialists from Rockwell Automation - join more than 100 previous recordings at the ROKStudios portal. About Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation, Inc (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 27,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries as of fiscal year end 2024. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2732655/Martina.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1981317/Rockwell_Automation_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/industry-leaders-define-the-digital-technologies-and-strategies-driving-business-critical-outcomes-302507057.html The rebrand brings Sustainability LIVE into full alignment with Sustainability Magazine, strengthening one of the world's leading platforms for sustainability leadership, innovation, and impact. LONDON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik, the global B2B digital media and events company, has revealed a refreshed brand identity for Sustainability LIVE. The new look will launch in March 2026 at the flagship event Sustainability LIVE: Net Zero, happening in London. The rebrand unifies Sustainability LIVE with its founding platform, Sustainability Magazine, creating a single, cohesive identity across both brands. While the magazine has always hosted the event, this updated visual system makes that relationship explicit, enhancing brand recognition and streamlining the experience for audiences, sponsors, and partners alike. "This rebrand is about connection," said Glen White, CEO and Founder of BizClik. "Sustainability LIVE and Sustainability Magazine have always shared the same mission. From March 2026, they'll share the same look and feel, and become a single, recognisable brand that's built for the future." A Unified Brand for a Global Sustainability Community Since its launch, Sustainability LIVE has grown into a trusted global platform for sustainability leaders, C-suite executives, and purpose-driven businesses. The new visual identity strengthens the connection between BizClik's award-winning events and the editorial authority of Sustainability Magazine, offering a more consistent and recognisable brand across digital and in-person touchpoints. When Will the New Branding Appear? The refreshed identity will officially debut at Sustainability LIVE: Net Zero, taking place on 4 - 5 March 2026 at the QEII Centre, London. It will then roll out across all future Sustainability LIVE events, marketing, and digital assets. The upcoming Sustainability LIVE London event, scheduled for 9 - 10 September 2025, will proceed under the existing branding. The rebrand does not affect event programming or partnerships for the 2025 calendar. What's Next for Sustainability LIVE? 2026 will mark a significant expansion of the Sustainability LIVE brand, with new global events and deeper integration into Sustainability Magazine's editorial coverage. From in-person summits to whitepapers, webinars, Sustainability TV, and podcasts, BizClik will continue to connect sustainability leaders with insight-driven platforms that inspire action and amplify impact. Get your Sustainability LIVE tickets here . About Sustainability LIVE Sustainability LIVE is a global platform by Sustainability Magazine which connects the world's most influential voices in climate action, ESG, sustainable business, and innovation. Through live events, multimedia content, and thought leadership, Sustainability LIVE drives forward the ideas and actions shaping a more sustainable future. About BizClik BizClik is a global B2B media and events company. It delivers results-driven content, world-class events, and strategic marketing solutions. Its leading platforms, including Sustainability Magazine and Sustainability LIVE, reach executive audiences across industries, helping businesses drive impact and growth. For more information, visit: www.bizclikmedia.com Subscribe to Sustainability Magazine here . Media Contacts Alice Page Commercial Promotions & Communications Director, BizClik alice.page@bizclikmedia.com Beckie Jordan Events Media Director, BizClik rebecca.jordan@bizclikmedia.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736046/Sustainability_LIVE.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bizclik-unveils-new-brand-identity-for-sustainability-live-launching-march-2026-at-sustainability-live-net-zero-302511812.html Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Sankamap Metals Inc. (CSE: SCU) ("Sankamap" or the "Company") proposes to complete a non-brokered private placement financing of up to 22,727,272 units ("Units") at a price of $0.22 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $5 million (the "Offering"). Each Unit will consist of one (1) common share (a "Share") and one-half (1/2) of a common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one (1) additional Share of Sankamap at an exercise price of $0.40 for a period of two years from the date or dates of closing of the Offering (a "Closing Date"). The gross proceeds from the sale of the Units will be utilized to fund exploration and development of Sankamap's projects, and for general working capital. Sankamap may pay finder's fees to arm's length finders (each a "Finder") in connection with this placement, which are expected to be up to 6.0% of the gross proceeds raised by such Finder, in cash, and share purchase warrants, on the same terms as the Warrants, to acquire common shares of Sankamap of up to 6.0% of the number of Units sold to a purchaser or purchasers introduced by the Finder(s). The Offering is subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") and any finder's fees payable will be issued in accordance with the policies of the CSE and applicable securities laws. All securities issued will be subject to a four-month and one day hold period. About Sankamap Metals Inc. Sankamap Metals Inc. (CSE: SCU) is a Canadian mineral exploration company dedicated to the discovery and development of high-grade copper and gold deposits through its flagship Oceania Project, located in the South Pacific. The Company's fully permitted assets are strategically positioned in the Solomon Islands, along a prolific geological trend that hosts major copper-gold deposits; including Newcrest's Lihir Mine, with a resource of 71.9 million ounces of gold (310 Mt containing 23 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t P+P, 520 Mt containing 39 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t indicated, 81 Mt containing 5 Moz Au at 1.9 g/t measured, 61 Mt containing 4.9 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t Inferred). Exploration is actively advancing at both the Kuma and Fauro properties, part of Sankamap's Oceania Project in the Solomon Islands. Historical work has already highlighted the mineral potential of both sites, which lie along a highly prospective copper and gold-bearing trend, suggesting the possibility of further, yet-to-be-discovered deposits. At Kuma, the property is believed to host an underexplored and largely untested porphyry copper-gold (Cu-Au) system. Historical rock chip sampling has returned consistently elevated gold values above 0.5 g/t Au, including a standout sample assaying 11.7% Cu and 13.5 g/t Au2; underscoring the area's significant potential. At Fauro, particularly at the Meriguna Target, historical trenching has returned highly encouraging results, including 8.0 meters at 27.95 g/t Au and 14.0 meters at 8.94 g/t Au3. Complementing these results are exceptional grab sample assays, including historical values of up to 173 g/t Au3, along with recent sampling by Sankamap at the Kiovakase Target, which returned numerous high-grade copper values, reaching up to 4.09% Cu. In addition, limited historical shallow drilling intersected 35.0 meters at 2.08 g/t Au3, further underscoring the property's strong mineral potential and the merit for continued exploration. With a commitment to systematic exploration and a team of experienced professionals, Sankamap aims to unlock the untapped potential of underexplored regions and create substantial value for its shareholders. For more information, please refer to SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), under Sankamap's profile. 1.Newcrest Technical Report, 2020 (Lihir: 310 Mt containing 23 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t P+P, 520 Mt containing 39 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t indicated, 81 Mt containing 5 Moz Au at 1.9 g/t measured, 61 Mt containing 4.9 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t Inferred) 2. Historical grab, soil and BLEG samples from SolGold Kuma Review June 2015, and SolGold plc Annual Report 2013/2012 3. September 2010-June 2012 press releases from Solomon Gold Ltd. and SolGold Fauro Island Summary Technical Info 2012 QP Disclosure The technical content for the Oceania Project in this news release has been reviewed and approved by John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol., a Qualified Person in accordance with CIM guidelines. Mr. John Florek is in good standing with the Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (Member ID:1228) and a director and officer of the Company. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS s/ "John Florek" John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol Chief Executive Officer Sankamap Metals Inc. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not approved nor disapproved this press release. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. These statements and information are based on facts currently available to Sankamap and there is no assurance that the actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking statements and information may be identified by such terms as "anticipates," "believes," "targets," "estimates," "plans," "expects," "may," "will," "could" or "would." Forward looking statements in this press release but are not limited to, statements with respect to the expectations of management regarding the Offering, the expectations of management regarding the use of proceeds of the Offering, closing conditions for the Offering, and no objection from the CSE in respect of the Offering. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these statements from coming to fruition include the CSE objecting to the Offering; the proceeds of the Offering may not be used as stated in this news release; Sankamap may be unable to satisfy all of the conditions to the closing required by the CSE. Sankamap does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or information except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259718 SOURCE: Sankamap Metals Inc. Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Sona Nanotech Inc. (CSE: SONA) (OTCQB: SNANF) (the "Company", "Sona"), an oncology-focused life sciences company developing innovative therapies based on its uniquely biocompatible gold nanorod technology, has received Nova Scotia Health Research Ethics Board ("REB") approval to conduct its proposed pilot human clinical trial study (the "Pilot Study") of its Targeted Hyperthermia Therapy ("THT") cancer treatment with late-stage melanoma patients. Sona's THT Pilot Study is being planned as a multi-centre clinical trial for 30-40 patients and is subject to, amongst other things, securing medical device Investigational Testing Authorization ("ITA") from Health Canada. Sona CEO, David Regan, commented, "Cases of melanoma have tripled in 30 years in Canada where over 1,300 people die every year from this disease. For that reason, we are excited to be laying the foundation for the next steps necessary to get our THT cancer treatment into clinics. With ethics approval to conduct a Pilot Study in Canada, we now look forward to the possibility of a study of our therapy with up to 40 patients suffering from late-stage melanoma, subject to regulatory approval." Sona's THT Pilot Study will be designed to incorporate various learnings from its current Early Feasibility Study and to help further evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of Sona's THT therapy with a larger pool of patients. The information developed from a Pilot Study would inform the design of a larger randomized potential 'pivotal' clinical study which would be subject to regulatory approval. The Pilot Study is anticipated to be begin in late 2025 or early 2026. About Sona Nanotech Inc. Sona Nanotech is developing Targeted Hyperthermia, a photothermal cancer therapy, which uses therapeutic heat to treat solid cancer tumors. The heat is delivered to tumors by infrared light that is absorbed by Sona's gold nanorods in the tumor and re-emitted as heat. Therapeutic heat (42-48C) stimulates the immune system, shrinks tumors, inactivates cancer stem cells, and increases tumor perfusion - thus enabling drugs to reach all tumor compartments more effectively. Targeted Hyperthermia promises to be safe, effective, minimally invasive, competitive in cost, and a valuable adjunct to drug therapy and other cancer treatments. Sona has developed multiple proprietary methods for the manufacture of gold nanoparticles which it uses for the development of both cancer therapies and diagnostic testing platforms. Sona Nanotech's gold nanorod particles are cetyltrimethylammonium ("CTAB") free, eliminating the toxicity risks associated with the use of other gold nanorod technologies in medical applications. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This press release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the anticipated applications and potential opportunities of Targeted Hyperthermia Therapy, and Sona's preclinical and clinical study plans. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions or estimates that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the risk that Sona may not be able to secure the remaining required regulatory approvals for the Pilot Study, enroll study participants in a timely manner, successfully obtain sufficient clinical and other data to submit regulatory submissions, raise sufficient additional capital, secure patents or develop the envisioned therapy, and the risk that THT may not prove to have the benefits currently anticipated. 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. Sona 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. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259671 SOURCE: Sona Nanotech Inc. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Volta Metals Ltd. (CSE: VLTA) (FSE: D0W) ("Volta" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Rare Earth Element processing and supply chain expert Alastair Neill and capital markets specialist Steve Stakiw to its advisory board. Alastair Neill, P.Eng., MBA Mr. Neill has over 30 years of experience in rare earth material engineering, separation, processing, and sales to global markets. He holds a degree in Materials Engineering from Western University and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University. His work in sourcing rare earth materials to and from China and managing joint ventures with Asian partners has made him a sought-after expert in the industry. He is currently a director for the Critical Minerals Institute (CMI) in Canada, and a director for Neoterrex Corporation (TSXV: NTX) and Nuinsco (NWI.CN). His experience also includes serving as Director of Business Development for Rare Earth Salts Separations and Refining, as Director at IBC Advanced Alloys (TSXV: IB) and Executive Vice President at Dacha Strategic Metals (formerly TSXV: DSM). Mr. Neill commented, "I'm excited to join Volta Metals at such a pivotal time in the development of North America's critical mineral supply chain. Volta's Springer Project is one of the most promising rare earth and gallium assets I've seen in Canada - with excellent infrastructure, strategic location, and the right metals for today's technology-driven world. The combination of rare earths and gallium is exceptionally rare, positioning Volta to play a key role in supplying the materials essential for electrification, defense, and clean energy. With China currently producing approximately 98% of the world's gallium, it's never been more important to establish secure, domestic sources. I look forward to supporting the team as they advance these high-potential assets in Ontario." Steve Stakiw Mr. Stakiw is an experienced mining executive and geologist with over 30 years in the mining sector, specializing in capital markets. He was recently CEO of Element 29 Resources (TSXV: ECU) and Senior Vice President at New Pacific Metals Corp. (TSX: NUAG). Prior to that, he was Vice President of Investor Relations and part of the original team that successfully grew Trevali Mining Corp. from an exploration-stage company, through development, into a mid-tier base metal producer with four operating mines on three continents and over a $1-billion market capitalization. He has helped build and strengthen marketing programs and expand both retail and institutional investor networks. Mr. Stakiw added, "I'm pleased to join Volta Metals in an advisory role as it continues to advance its position in the critical minerals sector. The acquisition of the Springer Rare Earth and Gallium Deposit and planned technical programs offer a compelling opportunity to unlock substantial value from this advanced rare earth project and its high-grade gallium potential." Kerem Usenmez, President & CEO of Volta, added, "We are very pleased to welcome Alastair Neill and Steve Stakiw as strategic advisors to Volta. Alastair's decades of rare earth experience - spanning engineering, separation, processing, and global marketing - will be instrumental as we advance our critical minerals portfolio in Ontario. His deep understanding of sourcing and refining rare earths, especially in relation to Asia and China, aligns perfectly with our vision to develop secure, domestic supply chains. Steve's experience and network will help us take Volta to the next level and develop our critical mineral projects further. With their guidance, we are well-positioned to unlock the full potential of our Springer Rare Earth and Gallium Project and our broader Ontario-based assets, including the Aki Project. Our team's insights will be a major asset as we build Canada's next-generation critical mineral company." Grant of Stock Options, DSUs, and RSUs The Company also announces that it has granted a total of 1,625,000 incentive options to its directors, officers, consultants, and advisors of the Company, 700,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") to the officers, and 550,000 deferred share units ("DSUs") to the directors, subject to CSE approval. Each option is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.11 for a period of 5 years from the date of the grant. The options vest 1/3 immediately and 1/3 annually thereafter. All options expire on July 22, 2030. The 700,000 RSUs will vest 1/3 annually starting after one year. ABOUT VOLTA METALS LTD. Volta Metals Ltd. (CSE: VLTA) (FSE: D0W) is a mineral exploration company based in Toronto, Ontario, focused on rare earth elements, gallium, lithium, cesium, and tantalum. It owns, has optioned and is currently exploring a critical minerals portfolio of rare earths, gallium, lithium, cesium, and tantalum projects in Ontario, one of the world's most prolific mining and mineral exploration districts. To learn more about Volta, its Springer REE & Ga and Aki critical minerals projects, please visit www.voltametals.ca. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD For further information, contact: Neither the CSE nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to product development, plans, strategies, and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. 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. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include: the risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators; the fact that Volta's interests in its mineral properties are options only and there are no guarantee that such interest, if earned, will be certain; the future prices and demand for lithium; and delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary approvals, permits and authorizations required to carry out its business plans. The reader is 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. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. 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 disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, other than as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259704 SOURCE: Volta Metals Ltd. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Copper Fox Metals Inc. (TSXV: CUU) (OTCQX: CPFXF) (FSE: HPU) ("Copper Fox" or the "Company") and its owned subsidiary, Desert Fox Minerals Co. ("Desert Fox"), are pleased to present an updated exploration model for its 100% owned Sombrero Butte project. The model integrates data from the 2024 geophysical and mapping programs, petrographic, mineralogical, geochronological and alteration studies, whole rock and trace element geochemistry, SWIR and high resolution airborne magnetic and radiometric surveys, and available public data. The use of trace element ratios and zircon geochemistry was used to distinguish between prospective (fertile) and non-prospective intrusive phases of the Copper Creek granodiorite. Elmer B. Stewart, President & CEO of Copper Fox commented: "The data compilation and updating the exploration model, provides the opportunity to prepare a Plan of Operations to conduct an exploratory drill program to test the large porphyry target located in the center of the project. The exploration model suggests a "near surface" highly evolved porphyry copper-molybdenum system exhibiting supergene enrichment of the copper mineralization and several episodes of high temperature hydrothermal fluids located in the same structural setting as the Copper Creek porphyry copper deposit to the north." Faraday Copper's Copper Creek porphyry copper deposit and Copper Fox's Sombrero Butte project are in the historically productive Copper Creek-Bunker Hill mining district, which contains breccia-pipe-hosted and porphyry-style copper mineralization, The Copper Creek porphyry copper deposit is located approximately three kilometers north of the Sombrero Butte project, Figure-1. Figure-1: Project location map (looking west) showing other porphyry copper deposits in relation to the exploration target and chargeability anomaly on the Sombrero Butte project. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2177/259709_709223d3b4d2a95f_001full.jpg Summary The updated exploration model supports the presence of a large, highly evolved porphyry copper system overlain by a relatively thin veneer of phyllic-altered andesitic volcanics and volcaniclastic sediments of the Glory Hole formation. The Copper Creek intrusive exhibits a diorite to granodiorite evolutionary trend consistent with other porphyry copper deposits in Arizona with SiO2 contents ranging between 52 to 70% SiO2 consisting primarily of porphyritic and non-porphyritic phases of hornblende-biotite granodiorite and biotite granodiorite with lesser amounts of quartz diorite, quartz monzonite and quartz syenite. The "near surface" porphyry copper target is characterized by quartz vein hosted copper-molybdenum mineralization that exhibits a strong spatial correlation to a central zone of potassic alteration and laterally widespread thermal metamorphism and phyllic alteration of the Glory Hole volcanics. The zone of potassic alteration hosts areas of quartz-magnetite, and magnetite veining (indicative of early potassic alteration) and prospective hypersaline fluid inclusions (liquid+vapor+daughter minerals) typically observed in the epizonal portion of porphyry copper deposits underlain by a coincident strong positive chargeability anomaly hosted in the Laramide age Copper Creek intrusive (Pb/U zircon ages of 62.97+/-0.01 Ma and 63.08+/-0.01 Ma.) and overlying Glory Hole volcanics, Figure-2. Figure-2: Schematic section (looking north-northwest) showing the Updated Exploration Model for the Sombrero Butte Project. The depth of reliable exploration for the 2024 geophysical survey is limited to 600m below surface. The anomalous chargeability and low resistivity signatures extend to depth below the 600m depth. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2177/259709_709223d3b4d2a95f_002full.jpg The updated exploration model highlights the following features typically seen in Laramide porphyry copper deposits in Arizona. The southern extension of the Copper Creek granodiorite consists primarily of porphyritic and non-porphyritic hornblende-biotite granodiorite and biotite granodiorite. The porphyry copper target and underlying 3,200 meter (m) long by 1,300m wide chargeability anomaly (>25 mrad) occupies the same structural setting as the Copper Creek porphyry copper deposit. A central potassic zone surrounded by widespread phyllic (the Limonite zone; oxidized quartz-pyrite-sericite veinlets) and lesser amounts of distal advanced argillic, propylitic and tourmaline alteration. Hypogene enrichment (i.e. bornite rimming chalcopyrite) of copper mineralization and magnetite rimming pyrite indicating several superimposed high temperature hydrothermal events. Hypersaline fluid inclusions with liquid+ vapor + solid phases of halite, hematite, chalcopyrite and anhydrite typically observed in epizonal portions of porphyry copper deposits. Multiple (120) breccia pipes including magmatic hydrothermal breccia containing high grade copper +/- molybdenum-gold-silver mineralization. Thermal metamorphism of the Glory Hole volcanics suggesting a relatively thin cover of Glory Hole volcanics overlying the Copper Creek granodiorite intrusive. General Geology The geology of the Sombrero Butte project consists of Precambrian age Pinal Schist, Laramide age Glory Hole volcanics and Copper Creek granodiorite and the Miocene age Galiuro volcanics, Figure-3. Figure-3: General geology of the Sombrero Butte project and section line for the updated exploration model. The red line on the map shows line of section for the exploration model shown in Figure-2. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2177/259709_709223d3b4d2a95f_003full.jpg Structural Setting The Copper Creek porphyry copper deposit is located between the Holy Joe fault and the Blind Thrust fault. Modelling of high-resolution magnetic data delineated several north-northwest trending, west dipping (55 to 65), regional scale magnetic features, three of which exhibit a strong correlation to the Range Front fault, the Blind Thrust fault and the Holy Joe fault. The porphyry exploration target and chargeability anomaly occupy the same structural setting on the Sombrero Butte project, Figure-4. Figure-4: Structural setting of the chargeability anomaly and interpreted regional faults underlying the Sombrero Butte project. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2177/259709_709223d3b4d2a95f_004full.jpg Petrographic/Mineralogical Studies These studies identified the following mineralogical and alteration features indicative of a porphyry copper system. Widespread potassic (K-spar) alteration and quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite veins associated with the K-spar alteration. Hypogene enrichment evidenced by bornite encroaching inward on core zones of chalcopyrite. Sulfide mineralization postdates the thermal metamorphism of the Glory Hole Volcanics. Samples where the paragenetic sequence shows later stage magnetite rimming and replacing pyrite, an unusual pattern, in that porphyry-related hydrothermal systems generally evolve from a low oxidation-low sulfidation state to high oxidation and sulfidation states. Fluid Inclusion Studies Fluid-inclusions in porphyry copper deposits are considered to be indicative of epizonal intrusions which are the most favorable parents for porphyry copper mineralization and provide direct information about the hydrothermal fluids that transport metals and form deposits. The fluid inclusions identified at Sombrero Butte are a) vapor, b) liquid+vapor and c) liquid+vapor+daughter minerals. The presence of hypersaline inclusions (liquid+ vapor+ daughter minerals) suggests the intrusive source achieved saturation and phase separation (i.e. "boiling") into a vapor-rich phase and a high salinity brine phase. The locations of samples from the Sombrero Butte project with hypersaline fluid inclusions are shown in Figure-5. Figure-5: Distribution of samples used in fluid inclusion studies showing locations of samples with Hypersaline fluid inclusions. Hypersaline fluid inclusions are restricted to the various phases of the Copper Creek granodiorite. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2177/259709_709223d3b4d2a95f_005full.jpg Breccia Systems Five different styles of breccias occur within the porphyry target at Sombrero Butte. These mineralized and non-mineralized breccias occur as vertically dipping pipes exhibiting different textural, geochemical associations, alteration patterns, degrees of leaching, and weak to intense argillic alteration. The Breccia pipes at the northwest end of the project occur within an 800m by 800m area within potassic and phyllic altered porphyritic and non-porphyritic hornblende-biotite granodiorite, biotite granodiorite and Glory Hole volcanics. Several of these breccia pipes were tested by diamond drilling between 2006-2008. Selected weighted average grade for mineralized intervals from these breccias are shown in Table-1. Table-1: Selected weighted average grades from 2006-2008 diamond drilling at Sombrero Butte as reported in the NI 43-101 Technical Report of the Sombrero Butte Project, Pinal County, Arizona, USA, dated May 12, 2010, prepared by Rodney A. Blakestad, J.D., C.P.G. Breccia DDH ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Cu (%) Mo (%) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Magna SB-02 280 368 88 0.663 0.012 0.009 0.561 Campstool SB-03 430 492 62 0.566 0 0.044 0.100 Sunset SB-05 10 40 30 3.570 0.001 0.005 4.050 Audacious SB-14 0 86 86 1.158 0.001 0.007 0.412 Magna SB-23 276 358 82 0.815 0.003 0.020 0.485 Magna SB-23 446 506 60 1.010 0.022 0.067 3.015 Victors SB-33 4 26 22 1.562 0.004 0.124 5.509 Note: The intervals in the above table are based on drill core lengths and do not represent true thickness of the mineralized intervals. Analytical Procedures Age dating (U/Pb zircon, based on 12 determinations) of samples was performed by the Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research located in Vancouver, British Columbia (CA-TIMS U-Pb isotopic data). Whole rock and trace element sample preparation and analytical results were completed by ALS Canada Ltd at its facilities in Vancouver, British Columbia. Sample analyses utilized ALS's codes ME-MS61L for trace elements, MS61L-REE for Rare Earth elements and ME-ICP for Whole Rock element analyses. Historical analytical results from the 2006-2008 drilling preformed by Bell Copper were generated by Activation Laboratories using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analyses ("INAA") and Inductively Coupled Plasma mass spectrometry ("ICP") analytical techniques. Both Bell Copper and Activation Laboratories employed various standards and blanks in their respective QA/QC programs. Vancouver Petrographics located in Langley, British Columbia, prepared the thin sections, completed cobaltinitrite staining of cut block and provided petrographic descriptions of the thin sections. Qualified Person Elmer B. Stewart, MSc. P. Geol., President and CEO of Copper Fox, is the Company's non-independent, nominated Qualified Person pursuant to National Instrument 43-101, Standards for Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has approved the scientific and technical information disclosed in this news release. About Copper Fox Copper Fox is a Canadian resource company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: CUU) focused on copper exploration and development in Canada and the United States. The principal assets of Copper Fox and its wholly owned Canadian and United States subsidiaries, being Northern Fox Copper Inc. and Desert Fox Copper Inc., are the 25% interest in the Schaft Creek Joint Venture with Teck Resources Limited on the Schaft Creek copper-gold-molybdenum-silver project located in northwestern British Columbia and the 100% ownership of the Van Dyke oxide copper project located in Miami, Arizona. For more information on Copper Fox's other mineral properties and investments visit the Company's website at copperfoxmetals.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors Elmer B. Stewart President and Chief Executive Officer 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 news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and forward-looking information within the meaning of the Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Forward-looking information is identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "budgets," "could," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts", "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements regarding; an updated exploration model; preparation of a Plan of Operations to conduct an exploratory drill program; presence of a large, highly evolved porphyry copper system. In connection with the forward-looking information contained in this news release, Copper Fox and its subsidiaries have made numerous assumptions regarding, among other things: the geological advice that Copper Fox has received is reliable and is based upon practices and methodologies which are consistent with industry standards; and the reliability of historical reports. While Copper Fox considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause Copper Fox's actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. Known risk factors include, among others: the updated exploration model may not be accurate; the Plan of Operations may not get completed or filed as planned; an exploratory drill program may not happen as planned or at all; the presence of a large highly evolved porphyry copper system may not be as estimated; the financial markets and the overall economy may deteriorate; the need to obtain additional financing and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; and uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals. A more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing Copper Fox is disclosed in Copper Fox's continuous disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedarplus.ca. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and Copper Fox disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events, or developments, except as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259709 SOURCE: Copper Fox Metals Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF) (FSE: E1K) ("LVG" or the "Company") announces that further to its news release dated July 3rd 2025 the Company, having received TSX Venture Exchange approval, has issued to debenture holders an aggregate of 228,872 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Shares") at a price of $0.195 per Share, as determined in accordance with the terms of the $750,000 of convertible debentures issued on July 26, 2024 and August 8, 2024. The issuance of shares satisfies the Company's obligation to pay an aggregate of $44,630 in interest accrued on the convertible debentures up to June 30th 2025. About Lake Victoria Gold (LVG): Lake Victoria Gold is a rapidly growing gold exploration and development company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol LVG. Leveraging our unique position and experience, the Company is principally focused on growth and consolidation in the highly prolific and prospective Lake Victoria Goldfield in Tanzania. The Company has a 100% interest in the Tembo project which has over 50 thousand meters of drilling and is located adjacent to Barrick's Bulyanhulu Mine. The Company also holds a 100% interest in the Imwelo Project which is a fully permitted gold project west of AngloGold Ashanti's Geita Gold Mine. With historical resource estimates and a 2021 pre-feasibility study, the project is fully permitted for mine construction and production, positioning it as a near-term development opportunity. LVG has assembled a highly experienced team with a track record of developing, financing, and operating mining projects in Africa with management, directors and partners owning more than 60% of the shares. Notably, the Company is grateful for the validation that comes with the support and equity investment from Barrick and recent strategic partnership with Taifa Group. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including: the completion of transaction and obtaining regulatory approval for the transaction. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond LVG's control, including risks associated with or related to: receipt of all regulatory approvals; the state of financing availability; the volatility of metal prices and LVG's common shares; actual exploration or development plans and costs differing materially from the Company's estimates; and other risks disclosed in the Company's public filings. LVG's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. LVG does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities LVG will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259716 SOURCE: Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. The second prototype outer vertical target High-heat-load sample of an outer vertical target TOKYO, July 23, 2025 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501, "Hitachi") and the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology ("QST") began developing a second prototype, a full-scale mockup of an outer vertical target*1 which is one of the most important components of a divertor in January 2022. Divertors are important pieces of components used in the ITER fusion*2 experimental reactor that is under construction in Southern France. With streamlining the production method through measures such as the introduction of an automatic welding system as detailed below, we completed the second prototype in March 2025. Furthermore, we today announce that a high-heat-load sample of an outer vertical target has passed the rigorous certification test by the ITER Organization, which constructs and operates ITER as an international organization. Hitachi's production technologies have earned significant recognition following the preceding company which completed the first prototype with QST in July 2024.*1 QST will deliver 58 outer vertical targets to the ITER Organization. The preceding company manufactured 18 of these. The company that will manufacture the remaining 40 targets will be decided later.*2 Fusion is the source of the energy that keeps the sun shining. To realize fusion energy on Earth, it is necessary to use nuclear fusion reactions where deuterium, tritium and other light atomic nuclei fuse in a plasma state and become heavier atomic nuclei such as helium. Lithium, the raw material for tritium, and Deuterium are abundantly available in seawater. Additionally, the generation of fusion energy does not result in the generation of CO2. For this reason, fusion energy is expected to fundamentally solve energy and environmental issues. See *5 regarding plasma.Utilizing the technologies and knowledge obtained through the production of the prototype, Hitachi and QST will continue to contribute to the promotion of the ITER Project and also cooperate in the development of technologies for realizing fusion energy in the future. In addition, Hitachi seeks to provide divertors and similar in-vessel components to fusion energy-related startups and a prototype fusion reactor for which QST is investigating the design.Outline of ITER and divertorsTo realize fusion energy, seven regions including Japan, Europe, the United States, Russia, South Korea, China and India are promoting the ITER Project, a large international project aimed at conducting scientific and technological demonstrations of fusion. With the goal of achieving full operation through nuclear fusion burning, the ITER experimental reactor is under construction in Saint-Paul-les-Durance, France. Japan is taking on important roles such as the development and production of major pieces of ITER components including divertors and toroidal field coils (TF coils). QST is the ITER Project's agent in Japan and it promotes the procurement of equipment.The divertor is one of the most important components of a tokamak*3 and other magnetic confinement*4 fusion reactors. Divertors play an important role in maintaining the stability of the nuclear fusion reaction and exhausting impurities such as fuel residue and the helium generated by the nuclear fusion reaction in the reactor core plasma.*5 Divertors are the only tokamak devices capable of directly receiving plasma. They are used in a severe environment where they are exposed to heat load and particle load from the plasma. For this reason, special materials such as tungsten are used to make them. Tungsten has a high-melting-point but it is difficult to machine. Moreover, the plasma-facing surfaces are precisely shaped, requiring high-precision machining and assembly technologies to achieve the correct overall shape, inclination, steps and gaps that are accurate to 0.5 mm or less. It is believed that divertors are the hardest piece of the ITER in-vessel components to manufacture.*3 The method, represented by ITER and JT-60SA, retains an ultra-high temperature plasma that is more than 100 million degrees or higher within a strong magnetic field in a vacuum, and nuclear fusion reactions occur within the plasma. See *5 regarding plasma. See *11 for information about JT-60SA.*4 Fusion plasma is at very high temperature and cannot be kept in a conventional container, but it retains positively or negatively charged ions and characteristically becomes entangled in magnetic fields (lines of magnetic force). Using these characteristics, a magnetic confinement fusion reactor forms a basket-like magnetic field to retain plasma.*5 Plasma is one of the four basic states of matter. It is the fourth state next to solid, liquid and gas. When matter is exposed to very high temperatures or a strong electromagnetic field, atoms break down and separate to positively charged ions and negatively charged electrons, and they form plasma.The heat load on divertors reaches a maximum of 20 megawatts per square meter. This is equivalent to the surface heat load that an asteroid probe is exposed to when entering the atmosphere and much more than the surface heat load the space shuttle was subjected to. Outer vertical targets need to have a strong mechanical structure because they are subject to strong electromagnetic forces that can reach an approx. maximum of 16.5 tons. The establishment of technology for making divertors resistant to high heat loads and huge electromagnetic forces is a very important part of increasing the power output of fusion reactors, reducing the size of the reactors or increasing their magnetic fields in the future.Characteristics of the technology for the production of the second prototypeQST leads the manufacturers' material development efforts, regarding them as key technology for enabling divertors to withstand heat load that can be as high as 20 megawatts per square meter. Consequently, the company established methods of producing tungsten monoblocks*6 which do not break even under heat load, and copper alloy cooling pipes which are kept strong by maintaining high thermal conductivity while limiting the coarsening of their crystal grain. To bond these materials together, a brazing*7 technology that is resistant to high heat load has also been developed.*6 This is one of the components of the outer vertical targets that are a combination of tungsten, a metal that is resistant to heat load, and a copper buffer material.*7 A method of bonding metals. The technology uses a metal called a brazing material to bond base materials to each other. In contrast, welding is a method of bonding metals by welding a base material.By combining technologies and experience which are accumulated over many years in the nuclear energy business, Hitachi has developed a defect-free, high-quality welding technology for special materials and a non-destructive technology for inspecting restricted and complex shapes, and repeated demonstration testing has shown that Hitachi has achieved the high-precision machining and assembly technology that is accurate to 0.5 mm or less, a requirement of the ITER Organization. To rationalize production processes and costs, an automatic welding system optimized specially for divertors was introduced for welding thick, high-strength stainless steel. Instead of manual work, a robotic arm with a welding torch attached is combined with a device that controls the position of the object to be welded in synchronization with the movement of the robotic arm, resulting in higher quality welding at low cost.The special materials necessary for outer vertical targets are procured by QST from material manufacturers and are supplied to Hitachi which uses the special materials provided by QST to machine and assemble outer vertical targets in a strictly quality-controlled process. QST maintains and uses a high-temperature helium leak test facility*8 for the in-vessel components of fusion reactors that is the only one of its kind in Japan, and it independently conducts final tests to ensure the quality of the divertors.*8 The test facility uses helium gas to check for leaks with high precision at a high temperature of 250'C which is the environment that divertors will be used in.Initiatives implemented by Hitachi and QST to dateTo date, Hitachi and QST have been developing and manufacturing an ultra-high-voltage power supply system*9 with a voltage of 1 million volts for neutral beam injectors*10 for ITER. Currently, a system is being tested in Italy. Production of the devices to be delivered to France has commenced at Hitachi's factory. To realize fusion energy quickly, efforts are under way in Japan to reinforce neutral beam injectors for JT-60SA,*11 the world's largest superconducting tokamak device built jointly by Japan and Europe in parallel with the ITER Project.*9 The system supplies the power needed to actuate neutral beam injectors.*10 The device for injecting high-energy hydrogen atoms into plasma to heat the plasma. It heats the plasma to an ultra-high temperature of more than 100 million degrees, the temperature at which a nuclear fusion reaction occurs.*11 For information about JT-60SA, see the explanation about the JT-60SA Project on the website of the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology.Website about Hitachi's fusion businesshttps://www.hitachi.co.jp/products/energy/nuclear/accelerator/index.htmlAbout Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT(Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors - Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries - and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com.About LumadaAbout the National Institutes for Quantum Science and TechnologyThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) was established in April 2016 to promote quantum science and technology in a comprehensive and integrated manner. QST leads the world in 3 fields of research and development. Research on Quantum Technology Basis aims to create high functionality materials and devices utilizing high end laser technology. Research on Quantum Biological science aims to elucidate biological processes based on quantum science and technology. Research on Innovative Diagnosis and Treatment for Cancer and Dementia and other symptoms aims to realize a society of healthy longevity through heavy ion therapy, high precision diagnosis utilizing PET and treatments using targeted isotope therapy. Furthermore, the operation and maintenance of 3GeV-class synchrotron radiation facility "NanoTerasu" will be conducted as a national center of core high radiation medical assistance with public-private partnership leading technical development and human resource development in radiation medicine. Visit us at https://www.qst.go.jp/Contact information for Hitachi, Ltd.Business ContactTaku OyamaProject Management GroupFusion and Accelerators Development CenterGroup Leader Senior EngineerHitachi, Ltd+81-294-55-3420taku.oyama.ke@hitachi.comContact information for National Institutes for Quantum Science and TechnologyBusiness & Media ContactQST International Affairs and Public Relations Section,Department of International Affairs and Public Relations+81-432-06-3026info@qst.go.jpSource: Hitachi, Ltd.Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. Stevanato Group S.p.A. (NYSE: STVN), a global provider of drug containment, drug delivery, and diagnostic solutions to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and life sciences industries, announced today that it has secured 200 million in financing through agreements with BNL BNP Paribas, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), and Banco BPM. These fundings are intended to support the Company's ongoing capital expenditure projects in Cisterna di Latina (Italy) and Fishers (Indiana, U.S.). The financing agreements bolster Stevanato Group's capacity expansion efforts and the scaling of commercial production to support customers' growing biologics programs. CDP has committed 50 million to enhance the production of pre-filled syringes and set-up future capacity for ready-to-use (RTU) cartridges at Stevanato Group's Italian plant in Cisterna di Latina. Additionally, BNL BNP Paribas has provided 100 million, and Banco BPM has contributed 50 million, both aimed at scaling pre-filled syringe production at the company's facilities in North America (Indiana) and Italy, as well as completing the ongoing construction for device manufacturing in Fishers. "These agreements are an important element to Stevanato Group's financial strategy, allowing us to capitalize on robust customer demand and support the Company's long-term growth objectives," stated Marco Dal Lago, Chief Financial Officer of Stevanato Group. "We are committed to supporting our customers' biopharmaceutical programs with our unique value proposition of offering integrated solutions across the pharmaceutical value chain, helping to enable our customers to meet and exceed their program objectives." BNL BNP Paribas and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti have renewed their support for Stevanato Group to achieve long-term organic growth objectives in its key end-markets. Gianluca Mariani, Head of Industrial Manufacturing, Large Corporate Banking at BNL BNP Paribas: "Our support for Stevanato Group reflects our commitment to partnering with companies that invest in innovation, sustainability and global expansion. Stevanato Group is a leading example of excellence in its sector, and our goal is to make our domestic and international platforms available to contribute to the growing ambitions of the Company in the coming years." "We are proud to once again support the growth plans of Stevanato Group, a leading Italian company active in the pharmaceutical sector, which is strategic for the Country," stated Marco Roberto Pessione, Head of Corporate Coverage at CDP. "We firmly believe in the value of companies that invest in research, quality, and sustainable development, and that make a tangible contribution to the growth of the national economy. We remain committed to standing alongside these businesses, providing effective financial instruments to support their growth and consolidation plans both in Italy and internationally." "We are proud to support a company like Stevanato Group, a symbol of Italian industrial excellence worldwide, in its solid and innovation-driven growth journey," said Enrico Lemmo, Head of Corporate Banking North-East at Banco BPM. "This financing reflects our commitment to backing projects that create value locally while strengthening the international competitiveness of Italian enterprises." Forward-Looking Statements This press release may include forward-looking statements. The words "growing," "enhancing," "intended," "are seeing," "are committed," "achieve," "enable," and similar expressions (or their negative) identify certain of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are statements regarding the Company's intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, the investments the Company expects to receive, the expansion of manufacturing capacity, the Company's plans regarding its presence in the U.S. market, business strategies, the Company's capacity to meet future market demands and support preparedness for future public health emergencies, and results of operations. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company's present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Forward-looking statements involve inherent known and unknown risks, uncertainties and contingencies because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future and may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond the Company's ability to control or estimate precisely, such as future market conditions, currency fluctuations, the behavior of other market participants, the actions of regulators and other factors such as the Company's ability to continue to obtain financing to meet its liquidity needs, changes in the political, social and regulatory framework in which the Company operates or in economic or technological trends or conditions. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. Except as required by law, the company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. About Stevanato Group Founded in 1949, Stevanato Group is a leading global provider of drug containment, drug delivery and diagnostic solutions to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and life sciences industries. The Group delivers an integrated, end-to-end portfolio of products, processes and services that address customer needs across the entire drug life cycle at each of the development, clinical and commercial stages. Stevanato Group's core capabilities in scientific research and development, its commitment to technical innovation and its engineering excellence are central to its ability to offer value added solutions to clients. To learn more, visit: www.stevanatogroup.com. BNL BNP Paribas With more than one hundred years' experience, BNL BNP Paribas is one of the main Italian banking groups and one of the most well-known brands in Italy, where it operates all over the Country. It offers a wide range of products and services to meet the diverse needs of its clients (individuals, businesses, and public administrations). Since 2006, BNL has been part of BNP Paribas, a Group present in 63 countries with approximately 183,000 employees, including over 146,000 in Europe, where it operates in four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy, and Luxembourg. BNP Paribas holds key positions in its major business segments: Commercial, Personal Banking Services; Investment Protection Services; and Corporate Institutional Banking. Like the entire Group, BNL BNP Paribas is particularly committed to economic, social, and environmental sustainability; a strategy that epitomizes the Bank's ambition to generate, through its business, a positive impact on clients, employees, and the community, contributing to a more sustainable future. About CDP Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is the National Promotional Institute which has been supporting the Italian economy since 1850. The main goal of CDP is to accelerate the industrial and infrastructural development of Italy to boost its economic and social growth. CDP focuses its activities on sustainable development at local level, supporting the innovation and growth of Italian enterprises, also in the international arena. It partners local authorities, in a financing and advisory capacity, to create infrastructures and improve services of public value. CDP also participates actively in international cooperation initiatives to realize projects in developing countries and emerging markets. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is entirely financed by private capital, through the issuing of Postal Savings Bonds and Postal Savings Passbooks, and through issues on national and international financial markets. About Banco BPM On 1 January 2017, two large so-called 'popolari' banks, Banco Popolare and Banca Popolare di Milano, merged and transformed into a joint stock company (S.p.A.). The Banco BPM Group was established: a solid entity, with over 20,000 employees, 1,400 branches and around 4 million customers. Banco BPM, which today is Italy's third largest financial services group in terms of assets, has a deeply rooted presence in the regions of Northern Italy, including those with the highest industrial concentration in Europe. A widespread network serving households and businesses, an in-depth knowledge of the markets and innovative solutions underpin the strength of Banco BPM, which is active in various areas of the banking sector private and investment banking, asset management, bancassurance also through the Group's subsidiaries. Banco BPM's business model focuses on its people and their skills, enhanced by constant training. The Group operates in the tradition of 'popolari' banks, generating profitability for its shareholders and creating value for all its stakeholders in the areas in which it is present, so as to play a leading role in the sustainable and inclusive development of the country. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723635774/en/ Contacts: Media Stevanato Group Caterina Tripepi: caterina.tripepi@stevanatogroup.com Cassie Gonzales: stevanatoUS@teamlewis.com Nicolo Marcon: stevanatoita@teamlewis.com Investor Relations Stevanato Group Lisa Miles: lisa.miles@stevanatogroup.com Media Relations BNL BNP Paribas: francesco.deconciliis@bnpparibas.com; Phone: +39 06.42925362 Media Cassa Depositi e Prestiti: ufficio.stampa@cdp.it Phone: +39 06.42213990 www.cdp.it Media Relations Banco BPM: stampa@bancobpm.it Phone: +39 366-7864226 DELRAY BEACH, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Luxury Vinyl Tiles Market by Type (Rigid, Flexible), Product Type (Click LVT, Glue-down LVT), Distribution Channel (Retail Stores, Online Retail), End-use Sector (Residential, Commercial), & Region - Global Forecast to 2030", luxury vinyl tiles market is expected to reach USD 21.12 billion by 2030 from USD 17.74 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 3.56% during the forecast period. The construction sector is experiencing rapid growth, which is expected to boost the luxury vinyl tiles market. The rising number of residential and commercial buildings, along with increased renovations and maintenance work, will contribute to the growing demand for LVTs. Additionally, the urban population's desire for decorative interiors-driven by enhanced lifestyles-may further accelerate growth in the LVT market. Browse in-depth TOC on "Luxury Vinyl Tiles Market" 350 - Tables 50 - Figures 300 - Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=105150640 Rigid type of luxury vinyl tiles to be the fastest-growing segment in the market The rigid segment has recently become the leading category in terms of value. Rigid-type LVT is recognized for its durability, offering resistance to dents, scratches, and temperature fluctuations. This feature makes it particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas and environments with higher moisture levels. One of the main advantages of rigid-type LVT is its compatibility with various existing subfloors, including concrete, plywood, and previous flooring materials. It can be installed easily using either a click-lock or glue-down method. This straightforward installation process not only reduces labor costs but also saves time, making it a popular choice among industry professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Click LVT segment to register the fastest growth during the forecast period Click LVT is recognized as one of the fastest-growing segments in the LVT market. Its rising popularity can be attributed to several key factors, including an easy installation process, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. This type of flooring is particularly favored for both residential and commercial use. The innovative click-lock mechanism allows for quick, glue-free installation, significantly reducing labor time and costs. This feature is especially beneficial for renovation projects, making Click LVT an appealing choice for those looking to update their spaces efficiently. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=105150640 Heavy-duty vehicles segment to account for largest market share during the forecast period The sales of LVT is experiencing significant growth within retail distribution channels, largely attributed to enhanced in-store experiences, increased consumer trust, and better accessibility. Retail environments, especially large home improvement chains and specialized flooring stores, allow customers to physically see, touch, and compare various LVT products. This tactile engagement not only helps customers make informed decisions but also boosts their confidence in the quality and design of the products. Residential sector to account for the largest market share during the forecast period The residential sector stands out as the leader in terms of both value and volume. The growth of the luxury vinyl tiles market in the residential segment is largely driven by a variety of home renovation and maintenance projects. As spending on residential construction is expected to increase significantly, particularly in the dynamic and rapidly developing regions of the Asia Pacific and Latin America, a notable trend of urbanization is taking place. This urbanization not only transforms landscapes but also accelerates the growth rate of residential construction, surpassing the growth in more established markets in developed regions. Request Customization: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=105150640 North America to hold the largest market share during the forecast period North America is recognized as the leading region in this market, dominating in terms of both volume and value. The continuous growth of residential and commercial construction activities in the US and Canada, particularly in recent years, has significantly increased the demand for floor and wall covering materials. Among these, luxury vinyl tiles have gained popularity due to their durability, versatility, and affordability. Furthermore, the rising trend of renovation and remodeling projects across North America has further intensified the demand for luxury vinyl tiles. The report profiles key companies such as Mohawk Industries, Inc. (US), Tarkett (France), Shaw Industries Group, Inc. (US), Interface, Inc. (US), Gerflor (France), Forbo Group (Switzerland), Armstrong Flooring (US), Mannington Mills, Inc. (US), Responsive Industries Ltd. (India), and LX Hausys (South Korea). Get access to the latest updates on Luxury Vinyl Tiles Companies and Luxury Vinyl Tiles Market Size Browse Adjacent Market: Building and Construction Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Flooring Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Ceramic Tiles Market - Global Forecast to 2030 Ceiling Tiles Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Underwater Concrete Market - Global Forecast to 2028 Heavy Construction Equipment Market - Global Forecast to 2030 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/luxury-vinyl-tiles-market-worth-21-12-billion-by-2030--exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302511848.html March journal release details faster recovery, lower risk, and real-time patient input. TAMPA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / What if a woman could downsize and reshape her breasts without a single breath of general anesthesia? A newly published video article in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (March 21, 2025) documents exactly that: a fully conscious, comfortably numb breast-reduction technique created by Tampa plastic surgeon Meegan Gruber, MD, PhD. Co-authored with Canadian educator Donald H. Lalonde, MD, the paper, "Wide Awake Breast Reduction," combines tumescent liposuction with immediate skin and gland excision, all under local anesthesia. Over seven years and dozens of cases, Dr. Gruber reports zero conversions to general anesthesia, no drains, and next-day pain scores averaging 1-2 of 10 on non opioid medication. "Patients sit up mid-procedure so we can fine-tune nipple position and symmetry in real time," Dr. Gruber said. "They walk out clear-headed, avoid nausea, and resume light activity within 48 hours, outcomes impossible with traditional intubation." Why It Matters Safety first - Eliminates airway manipulation, aspiration risk, malignant hyperthermia, and most thromboembolic events. Economic win - Fewer staff, no post-anesthesia unit, reduced pharmaceutical costs. Broader eligibility - Opens breast surgery to patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia or live in regions lacking full OR infrastructure. Patient empowerment - Awake patients help gauge gravity effects, shift positions for comfort, and leave surgery feeling in control of their bodies. The publication arrives as consumer interest in minimal-anesthesia procedures explodes. Industry forecasts predict a 35 percent jump in awake cosmetic surgeries nationwide by 2028, driven by shorter downtime and rising skepticism over heavy sedation. How the Technique Works Tumescent infiltration - Dilute lidocaine-epinephrine-ropivacaine solution numbs tissue and minimizes bleeding. Liposuction first - Rapid, nearly bloodless removal of lateral breast fat creates a clean dissection plane. Skin & gland excision - With the patient upright and alert, redundant skin and dense tissue are trimmed to target volume. No drains, no twilight drugs - Patients eat a light breakfast, take oral Tylenol and antibiotics, and remain fully conscious throughout. Seven years of data show no need for postoperative narcotics in most cases and no unplanned hospital transfers. Contraindications are limited to extreme anxiety, extensive scar tissue, or cardiac arrhythmias aggravated by epinephrine. A Patient's Voice Lisa M., 37, who lost 80 pounds before surgery, calls the experience "liberating": "I chatted with Dr. Gruber, saw my new shape before closure, and best of all never felt groggy. I was back to work in three days." The Bigger Picture With invitations to present at next month's American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Korea's KPS meeting, Dr. Gruber aims to train colleagues worldwide. "Wide-awake breast reduction proves we can make surgery safer, simpler, and more patient centric," she said. "It's the future and the future is wide awake." About Gruber Plastic Surgery Gruber Plastic Surgery, located in Tampa, FL, is led by Dr. Meegan Gruber, MD Ph.D., a board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for her pioneering work in awake surgery. Dr. Gruber, also the star of "Awake Surgery," which you can stream today on TLC GO, HBO MAX, Hulu, Discovery+, and other streaming platforms, integrates advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to deliver safe, comfortable, and natural-looking results with minimized recovery time. Specializing in awake surgeries, the clinic offers a range of state-of-the-art procedures. Dr. Gruber is committed to innovation and education, ensuring precision and safety in every treatment, while enhancing patient confidence through individualized care and surgical expertise. SOURCE: Gruber Plastic Surgery Related Images Gruber Plastic Surgery Gruber Plastic Surgery View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/game-changer-peer-reviewed-%22awake-breast-reduction%22-showcases-tampa-s-1049073 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Onyx Gold Corp. (TSXV: ONYX) (OTCQX: ONXGF) ("Onyx" or the "Company") is pleased to announce drill results for five (5) additional drill holes from the Company's drill program (the "Program') at the Argus North Zone ("Argus North"), a newly identified gold zone located on its 100% owned Munro-Croesus Project ("Munro-Croesus" or the "Project"), 75 km east of Timmins, Ontario. The results reported today are from five step-out drill holes completed on a cross-section located 50 metres ("m") east of the Argus North discovery-hole section. This follows the June 2025 release of four drill holes from the discovery section, which included a highlight intercept of 91.0 metres grading 1.8 grams per tonne "g/t" gold ("Au"), with a higher-grade interval of 32.0 metres of 4.0 g/t Au in hole MC25-168 (see Company news release dated June 26, 2025). Highlights 52.2 m grading 2.2 g/t Au including 5.2 m of 5.1 g/t Au, and a second deeper intersection of 61.3 m of 1.5 g/t Au including 6.6 m grading 4.2 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-178 for a total cumulative width of 113.5 m of mineralization . 66.8 m grading 1.4 g/t Au including 4.0 m of 6.6 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-179, a 50 m up-dip step-out from drill hole MC25-178. 50.4 m grading 1.9 g/t Au starting at 6.1 m downhole (approximately 4 m vertically from surface) , including 4.0 m of 5.9 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-180, a 50 m up-dip step-out from drill hole MC25-179 Results to date demonstrate excellent continuity of wide intervals of strong gold mineralization now defined over 200 m vertically and extending right to surface The Company has completed 26 drill holes (assays announced for nine holes to date), totaling approximately 9,000 m of the 10,000 m phase 1 program. Current drill program expanded from 10,000 m to 25,000 m. "These latest results from Argus North continue to highlight strong gold grades over broad widths and confirm that the zone remains open for expansion," said Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO. "We are particularly encouraged by the mineralization intersected essentially at surface as this enables mechanical stripping to expose and sample the zone in outcrop: another useful exploration tool. We are mobilizing an excavator to site now and are look forward to the additional insights we can gather from surface work." "With results from just nine drill holes reported to date at Argus North, we're already defining a zone with notable grade and continuity that remains open along strike and down-plunge. Based on these results, we've expanded the drill program to further test this emerging zone and to explore additional high-priority targets across the broader Munro-Croesus project through the second half of the year." Discussion of 2025 Argus North Results The Argus North Zone is located on the western half of the Munro-Croesus project, 150 m north of the regional Pipestone Fault, a major structural corridor known to host significant gold deposits. Hole MC24-163, the discovery drill hole at Argus North reported earlier this year, returned 69.6 m grading 3.4 g/t Au, including 34.5 m grading 5.4 g/t Au, including 9.5 m grading 13.9 g/t Au (see Company news release dated April 10, 2025). Argus North is situated 100 m north of the east-west trending main Argus Zone, which is a separate 750 m x 200 m near-surface bulk tonnage target (e.g. 1.0 g/t Au over 63.3 m and 0.5 g/t Au over 136 m). Mineralization at Argus North is hosted within a strongly brecciated structural zone with 3-10% fine-grained disseminated pyrite and distinct pyritic stringers that extend into the host mafic variolitic basalts. Halos of strong albitization, strong silicification, and locally moderate sericitization are associated with the mineralized zones, often intruded by 1 to 7 m thick quartz feldspar porphyritic intrusions. Drilling to date indicates an east-southeast strike and a steep southerly dip to the Argus North structural zone, which may represent a secondary splay off the regional scale Pipestone Fault. Gold mineralization at Argus North has been delineated between surface and 200 m vertical depth, 50 m in an east-west direction, and remains open along strike and down-plunge. The five drill holes reported in this news release are all located on the same north-south cross-section, 50 m east of previously reported drill holes MC24-163/168/171 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2) with approximate 50 m step-outs up-dip and down-dip. The drilling to date has continued to return promising results with holes MC25-178, MC25-179 and MC23-180 all intersecting 50-to-67-meter widths of consistent gold mineralization as reported below and in Table 1: 52.2 m grading 2.2 g/t Au , in hole MC25-178 (50 m east of drill hole MC25-168), including 32.2 m grading 3.0 g/t Au, including 5.2 m grading 5.1 g/t Au , AND 61.3 m grading 1.5 g/t Au, in hole MC250178, including 31.6 m grading 2.0 g/t Au, including 6.6 m grading 4.2 g/t Au 66.8 m grading 1.4 g/t Au, in hole MC25-179 (50 m up-dip from MC25-178), including 22.8 m grading 3.3 g/t Au, including 4.0 m grading 6.6 g/t Au 50.4 m grading 1.9 g/t Au starting at 6.1 m downhole , in hole MC25-180 (50 m up-dip from MC25-179), including 24.5 m grading 3.4 g/t Au, including 4.0 m grading 5.9 g/t Au 36.3 m grading 0.4 g/t Au , in hole MC25-173 (60 m down-dip from MC25-178), including 1.9 m grading 3.7 g/t Au 1.1 m grading 12.0 g/t Au, in hole MC25-175 (50 m down-dip from MC25-173), with other individual zones returning 1.1 to 2.5 m widths grading 1.1 to 3.5 g/t Au. Next Steps The Company has completed 26 drill holes totalling ~9,000 m to date as part of its fully funded Phase 1 drill program at the Argus Zone. Ongoing plans include step-out drilling along strike on 50 m to 100 m spaced cross-sections designed to extend the limits of the known gold mineralization. The Company's Board of Directors has approved a 150% increase in the size of the Program from 10,000 to 25,000 m based on the strong results to date at Argus North. Additional drilling will continue to systematically step out east and west along the key prospective variolitic basalt flows immediately north of the Pipestone Fault and to target other high-priority targets over the large 109 km2 Project area. In addition, the Company plans to excavate the near-surface mineralization intersected in the top of hole MC25-180 using mechanical stripping to complete detailed mapping and sampling of outcrop. The Company also plans to complete ground-based direct-coupled induced polarization ("DCIP") geophysical surveying to infill the 200 m spaced gridlines completed in winter of 2021-2022 over Argus Main and Argus North. The Munro-Croesus Project The Munro-Croesus Project is located along Highway 101 in the heart of the Abitibi greenstone belt, Canada's premier gold mining jurisdiction (Figure 3). This large, 100% owned land package includes the past-producing Croesus Gold Mine, which yielded some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario. Extensive land consolidation from 2020-2025 has unified the patchwork of patented and unpatented mining claims surrounding the Croesus Gold Mine into one largely coherent package and enhanced the project's exploration potential. The Project covers 109 km2 of highly prospective geology within the influence of major gold-bearing structural breaks. Bulk-tonnage gold deposits located in the immediate region include the Fenn-Gib gold project being developed by Mayfair Gold Corp. that contains an Indicated Resource of 4.31 Moz at 0.74 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 141 koz at 0.49 g/t Au, and the Tower Gold Project being developed by STLLR Gold Inc. that contains an open pit Indicated Resource of 4.46 Moz at 0.92 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 8.29 Moz at 1.09 g/t Au1. Figure 1 - Cross-Section Highlighting Drill Holes Reported in this Release - Looking East To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/259733_9e117a5e54045861_001full.jpg Figure 2 - Plan Map Highlighting Argus North Zone Drill Holes Reported in this Release To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/259733_9e117a5e54045861_002full.jpg Figure 3 - Location of the Munro-Croesus Gold Project, Ontario To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/259733_9e117a5e54045861_003full.jpg Table 1 - Significant Assay Results from 2025 Drilling Completed at the Argus North Zone Target From To Length Au Drill Hole (m) (m) (m) (g/t) Argus North MC25-173 26.8 39.0 12.2 0.5 Including 26.8 27.4 0.6 4.3 And Including 37.0 38.0 1.0 1.8 And 219.4 240.5 21.1 0.5 Including 219.4 230.1 10.7 0.8 Including 225.0 230.1 5.1 1.1 And 259.9 296.2 36.3 0.4 Including 259.9 261.8 1.9 3.7 And Including 295.2 296.2 1.0 3.5 And 324.2 325.9 1.7 1.2 MC25-175 6.0 7.5 1.5 1.8 And 34.0 35.5 1.5 1.9 And 57.0 59.5 2.5 1.1 Including 58.5 59.5 1.0 1.6 And 169.3 170.4 1.1 1.1 And 247.0 248.1 1.1 12.0 And 289.0 291.0 2.0 1.6 Including 289.0 290.0 1.0 2.2 And 309.5 311.0 1.5 3.5 MC25-178 71.9 124.1 52.2 2.2 Including 91.0 123.2 32.2 3.0 Including 91.0 104.0 13.0 3.8 And including 118.0 123.2 5.2 5.1 And 147.0 208.3 61.3 1.5 Including 151.0 182.6 31.6 2.0 Including 162.0 168.6 6.6 4.2 And including 180.0 182.6 2.6 4.7 And Including 193.9 207.2 13.3 1.9 Including 193.9 199.0 5.1 2.4 MC25-179 13.8 73.0 59.2 0.3 Including 13.8 48.0 34.2 0.4 Including 15.8 18.8 3.0 1.4 And Including 58.0 61.0 3.0 1.4 And 101.0 167.8 66.8 1.4 Including 115.7 138.5 22.8 3.3 Including 115.7 125.7 10.0 4.4 Including 118.7 122.7 4.0 6.6 And Including 133.5 138.5 5.0 3.8 MC25-180 6.1 56.5 50.4 1.9 Including 32.0 56.5 24.5 3.4 Including 32.0 35.0 3.0 9.1 And Including 43.0 46.0 3.0 5.1 And Including 52.5 56.5 4.0 5.9 *Intersections are reported as drilled width; true width is estimated to be 70-90% of drilled width. About Onyx Gold Onyx Gold is an exploration company focused on well-established Canadian mining jurisdictions, with assets in Timmins, Ontario, and Yukon Territory. The Company's extensive portfolio of quality gold projects in the greater Timmins gold camp includes the Munro-Croesus Gold property, renowned for its high-grade mineralization, plus two additional earlier-stage large exploration properties, Golden Mile and Timmins South. The Golden Mile 140 km2 property is located 9 km northeast of Newmont's multi-million-ounce Hoyle Pond deposit in Timmins. The Timmins South 187 km2 property is located to the south and southeast of Timmins and surrounds the Shaw dome structure. Onyx Gold also controls four properties in the Selwyn Basin area of Yukon Territory, which is currently gaining significance due to recent discoveries in the area. Onyx Gold's experienced board and senior management team are committed to creating shareholder value through the discovery process, careful allocation of capital, and environmentally/socially responsible mineral exploration. On Behalf of Onyx Gold Corp. "Brock Colterjohn" President & CEO For further information, please visit the Onyx Gold Corp. website at www.onyxgold.com or contact: Additional Notes: Starting azimuth, dip and final length (Azimuth/-Dip/Length) for the five drill holes reported today are noted as follows: MC25-173 (000/45/414), MC25-175 (000/52/399), MC25-178 (000/45/372), MC25-179 (000/45/312) and MC25-180 (000/45/228). Samples of drill core were cut by a diamond blade rock saw, with half of the cut core placed in individual sealed polyurethane bags and half placed back in the original core box for permanent storage. Sample lengths typically vary from a minimum 0.2-meter interval to a maximum 1.5-meter interval, with an average 0.5 to 1.0-meter sample length. Drill core samples were delivered by truck in sealed woven plastic bags to ALS Geochemistry laboratory facility in Timmins, Ontario for sample preparation with final analysis at ALS Geochemistry Analytical Lab facility in North Vancouver, BC. ALS Geochemistry operate meeting all requirements of International Standards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015. Gold is determined by fire-assay fusion of a 50-gram sub-sample with atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Samples that return values >10 ppm gold from fire assay and AAS are determined by using fire assay and a gravimetric finish. Various metals including silver, gold, copper, lead and zinc are analyzed by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectroscopy, following multi-acid digestion. The elements copper, lead and zinc are determined by ore grade assay for samples that return values >10,000 ppm by ICP analysis. Silver is determined by ore-grade assay for samples that return >100 ppm. All ALS Geochemistry sites operate under a single Global Geochemistry Quality Manual that complies with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. ALS Geochemistry follows the quality management and operational guidelines set out in the international standards ISO/IEC 17025 - "General Requirement for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories" and ISO 9001 - "Quality Management Systems". The Company maintains a robust QA/QC program that includes the collection and analysis of duplicate samples and the insertion of blanks and standards (certified reference material). Ian Cunningham-Dunlop, P.Eng., Executive Vice President for Onyx Gold Corp. and a qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Fenn-Gib Gold Project and Tower Gold Project mineral resources compiled from public sources and are provided for general information purposes. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in adjacent properties and they are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploration thereof. Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the potential significance of results from the new Argus North discovery are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project param as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although 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 outlook 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/259733 SOURCE: Onyx Gold Corp. Val-d'Or, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Vision Lithium Inc. (TSXV: VLI) (OTCQB: ABEPF) (FSE: 1AJ2) (the "Company" or "Vision") is pleased to report the discovery of multiple high-grade Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum ("LCT") pegmatite dikes on its Sirmac Property located 40 km west of Sayona's Moblan lithium deposit near Chibougamau, Quebec. The sub-vertical north-trending dikes are spread out over a 5+ km distance along an apparent east-northeast trend referred to as the "Assinica LCT Trend". Vision has identified three significant mineralized dikes to date along this trend, each with significant lithium, cesium and tantalum values. Winsome Resources' SC dike occurrence is in line with this trend where all pegmatites encountered are mineralized. The Winsome SC mineralized pegmatites are located outside the property and are not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the property. Geologically and structurally, they appear to be part of the same east-northeast LCT pegmatite trend. On Vision's claims, the SC dike is the southern continuation of Winsome's SC dike where significant widths of LCT mineralization have been reported. The dike can be followed for at least 40 metres south of the boundary before going under overburden, but it likely continues further south. Vision collected six continuous channel samples ranging from 0.5 to 8.3 m, with sample lengths limited by overburden cover. Pegmatite Name Channel Sample Length m Li2O % Cs2O % Ta ppm SC Dike R1+R2 8.3 1.60 0.32 203 SC Dike R3 0.5 0.92 0.51 278 SC Dike R4 1.6 1.51 0.18 398 SC Dike R5 4.5 1.34 0.29 184 SC Dike R6 2.6 2.18 1.89 251 Note: Cs2O% = (Cs ppm/10 000) *1.06; Li2O% = (Li ppm/10 000) *2.153 A second LCT pegmatite dike was discovered 1.2 km west of the SC dike by Innovexplo geologists mandated by Vision for this exploration program. This dike is the northerly extension of the two narrow dikes discovered last year by Vision which returned high-grade cesium values (see Vision press release November 26, 2024). The new outcrops are well-exposed a hundred metres north of the original discovery and continue several hundred metres further northward. Overburden covers most of the dike and sampling of the entire dike could not be completed. Vision expects that the dike is likely much larger than what is visible and what has been sampled. Pegmatite Name Channel / Grab Sample Length m Li2O % Cs2O % Ta ppm Central Dike main outcrop area R7 2.0 1.64 1.98 496 Central Dike main outcrop area R8+R9 7.2 1.76 1.02 594 A number of grab rock samples were collected south of the Central Dike main outcrop area (towards the 2024 discovery) with the following results: 2.11% Li2O, 2.04% Cs2O and 263 ppm Ta 1.59% Li2O, 1.22% Cs2O and 244 ppm Ta 2.77% Li2O, 0.14% Cs2O and 104 ppm Ta 0.69% Li2O, 1.39% Cs2O and 201 ppm Ta (2024) 0.19% Li2O, 1.94% Cs2O and 264 ppm Ta (2024) 0.62% Li2O, 0.89% Cs2O and 257 ppm Ta (2024) A number of grab rock samples were also taken north of the main outcrop with the following results: 1.85% Li2O, 0.46% Cs2O and 202 ppm Ta 3.23% Li2O, 0.16% Cs2O and 121.5 ppm Ta 2.01% Li2O, 0.28% Cs2O and 73.6 ppm Ta 2.83% Li2O, 2.44% Cs2O and 252 ppm Ta 1.94% Li2O, 0.33% Cs2O and 173.5 ppm Ta 1.36% Li2O, 0.76% Cs2O and 434 ppm Ta A third significant dike was discovered almost 4 km west of the Central Dike. This new dike is not well exposed but is clearly several metres wide, north-trending and with a high-angle dip. The sampling team could only take representative grab rock samples of this LCT occurrence: 0.14% Li2O, 0.08% Cs2O and 174 ppm Ta 2.81% Li2O, 0.54% Cs2O and 234 ppm Ta 1.23% Li2O, 1.02% Cs2O and 470 ppm Ta Yves Rougerie, President & CEO comments: "These new Vision Lithium discoveries suggest the existence of a major east-northeast mineralized trend which hosts multiple lithium, cesium and tantalum-rich LCT dikes, and likely includes the Winsome SC occurrence. Vision's claims cover over 5 km of this trend and new claims staked by Vision east of Sayona's Gariteau claim block could also cover the trend. Isolated mineralized LCT pegmatite outcrops and historical drill-intersected dikes on Vision's claims are further indications of the potential for discovery along this new trend. The area is generally low relief, overburden covered and may host concealed major dikes near to very-near surface. The similarity between all the dikes discovered to date and the high grades encountered are very positive for this Project going forward. Follow-up work will likely include additional prospecting and sampling, soil sampling, renewed magnetic surveys, targeted gravity surveys and drilling. We are excited and looking forward to advancing this excellent Project." The exploration program was coordinated with Innovexplo of Val d'Or, Quebec, a member of Norda Stelo. The discoveries leading to the recognition/identification of the Assinica Trend are the result of the exploration proposals and expertise of the Innovexplo team led by Aurelien Eglinger, Ph.D. A whole new corridor/swarm of LCT pegmatite dikes is possible in this area, with potentially economic lithium, cesium and tantalum dikes. Future exploration by Vision will focus on the Assinica Trend to develop its exciting potential. Figure 1: Regional location and generalized geology for the Sirmac LCT Pegmatite Property, Quebec. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11052/259762_13406acad494bbf2_001full.jpg Figure 2: Assinica LCT Pegmatite Trend with location of new dike discoveries. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11052/259762_13406acad494bbf2_002full.jpg Figure 3: SC dike (white outcrops) at the Vision Lithium/Winsome Resources claim boundary. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11052/259762_vl20250723fig3.jpg Figure 4: Spodumene crystals from the SC dike. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11052/259762_13406acad494bbf2_012full.jpg Figure 5: Central Pegmatite and channel sampling cuts with Li2O values. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11052/259762_13406acad494bbf2_013full.jpg QA/QC The sampling program was planned and supervised by InnovExplo Inc. Samples were transported from the Sirmac Project to the ALS Global's facility in Val-d'Or, Quebec by InnovExplo personnel. The approximately 1.5 to 3.0 kg grab samples were crushed to 70% less than two millimetres (CRU-31), riffle split, and pulverize split to better than 85% passing 75 microns (PUL-31). Samples were assayed for lithium + 33 element by ICP-AES (ME-MS89L). InnovExplo Inc. and Vision Lithium are independent of ALS Global Laboratory. The scientific and technical information in this release has been reviewed and approved by Yves Rougerie, Geologist, President and CEO of the Company. Mr. Rougerie is a "qualified person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource, and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. About Vision Lithium Inc. Vision Lithium Inc. is a junior exploration company focused on exploring and developing high quality mineral assets including lithium and copper in Canada. The Company is led by skilled and qualified mineral exploration experts and business professionals with a deep understanding of the battery materials market, which is driven by lithium-ion batteries. Vision Lithium completed a positive PEA on its Sirmac lithium project in 2023. The Company is committed to discovering new, world-class assets and bringing these assets to production, starting with its advanced Sirmac lithium property in Quebec and Godslith lithium property located in Manitoba, and a group of base metal rich Ni-Cu-Co and/or Cu-Zn-Ag-Au properties in eastern Quebec and New Brunswick. For further information on the Company, please visit our website at www.visionlithium.com or contact us at info@visionlithium.com. NEITHER THE TSXV NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSXV) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. For additional information, please contact: To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259762 SOURCE: Vision Lithium SecurityBridge, the creator of the Cybersecurity Command Center for SAP, today announced the acquisition of CyberSafe, a UK-based pioneer in multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO) solutions for SAP users. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in SAP security innovation, as CyberSafe's flagship TrustBroker products will further enrich the SecurityBridge platform capabilities. A two-way integration enables customers to transition from password-based authentication to multi-factor authentication across the SAP technology stack, with full insight into the SAP application layer. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723384838/en/ SecurityBridge, the leading SAP security software provider, acquires MFA and SSO software company CyberSafe. "SAP's native security lacks the depth today's threat landscape demands," said Christoph Nagy, CEO and Co-founder of SecurityBridge. "This acquisition reinforces our mission to ensure no SAP system or customer is ever compromised. By integrating TrustBroker with our platform, we enable customers to apply passwordless MFA across all SAP workflows, without compromising usability. However, customers can still use TrustBroker products standalone." With a glowing global customer base spanning all industry segments and over three decades of cybersecurity expertise, CyberSafe brings deep authentication capabilities and a proven track record in enterprise-class identity protection. The TrustBroker products offer secure single sign-on (SSO), policy-based MFA during login, and step-up authentication (SUA), utilizing leading MFA applications, such as Microsoft Entra MFA (formerly Azure MFA), Okta, PingID, Duo, RSA SecurID, and TOTP/HOTP apps. Once integrated with SecurityBridge, TrustBroker products will act upon real-time threat signals, such as anomalous logon behavior, suspicious devices, and past user activity, to determine when MFA enforcement is necessary, thereby adding contextual intelligence to SAP user authentication. "For over three decades, CyberSafe has been at the forefront of integrating SAP user authentication with existing infrastructure, such as Microsoft Active Directory," said Tim Alsop, Managing Director of CyberSafe. "Joining forces with SecurityBridge facilitates building new products and enhancing existing products while leveraging the growing adoption of modern authentication methods. I am also looking forward to being able to deliver integration with the SecurityBridge platform, so that our TrustBroker products can offer contextual and risk-based MFA." The combined platform offering behavior-based enforcement policies with MFA takes SAP security to a new level by: Automatically enforcing MFA when users return after long periods of inactivity (e.g., 90+ days). Prompting MFA for logins outside of a user's standard working hours. Enforcing MFA when logins originate from devices not previously associated with the user. Requiring additional authentication for users with past suspicious behavior or flagged activity. Triggering MFA when access occurs from devices used by multiple individuals. These context-aware measures will seamlessly adapt authentication requirements to each situation, reducing user friction during normal activity while strengthening protection against abnormal or high-risk access attempts. About CyberSafe CyberSafe is a leading global security software vendor, providing mature, proven, standards-based solutions that enable true enterprise-class single sign-on (SSO), policy-based multi-factor authentication (MFA), and step-up authentication (SUA) for mission-critical SAP business applications. In 1991, the company pioneered the first commercial Kerberos-based security product, including being the first to provide critical security interoperability between Microsoft Windows and non-Microsoft operating systems and applications. More recently, CyberSafe has pioneered step-up authentication for SAP users, a feature not available from any other software vendor. The TrustBroker products are flexible and leverage existing infrastructure to minimize implementation and ongoing costs. About SecurityBridge SecurityBridge is the leading provider of a comprehensive, SAP-native cybersecurity platform, enabling organizations worldwide to protect their most critical business systems. The platform seamlessly integrates real-time threat monitoring, vulnerability management, and compliance capabilities directly into the SAP environment, enabling organizations to protect their data's integrity, confidentiality, and availability with minimal manual effort. It provides a 360 view of the SAP security situation and is characterized by user-friendliness, rapid implementation, and transparent licensing. SecurityBridge has a proven track record, including an excellent customer rating and over 7,500 secured SAP systems worldwide. The company is committed to innovation, transparency, and customer focus, ensuring that SAP users can confidently navigate the evolving landscape of SAP security threats. For more information, please visit www.securitybridge.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723384838/en/ Contacts: Patricia Franco SecurityBridge press@securitybridge.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - AVANTI GOLD CORP. (CSE: AGC) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has appointed Martin Pawlitschek as a Director of the Board of the Company. Martin is a geologist and mining executive with over 30 years of international experience in mineral exploration, resource development and mining investment with significant experience in the mining sector in Africa and brings a wealth of experience that will help propel the growth of the Company. "We are delighted to welcome Martin to the Board of Avanti. Martin brings with him invaluable experience and knowledge of the African mining industry and will make a significant contribution to the company's trajectory," said Sir Sam Jonah, Chairman of the Board of Avanti Gold. About Martin Pawlitschek Mr. Pawlitschek, has extensive experience in the mining sector, particularly in Africa including in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Sanu Gold Corp. (CSE: SANU), an exploration company focused on gold assets in Guinea, West Africa, with the largest shareholders including Montage Gold (TSX: MAU), Lundin Family, and Anglogold Ashanti PLC (NYSE: AU). Martin has significant experience in Africa, including early-stage exploration programs that led to the discovery of the Sabodala Gold Mine in Senegal. He also served as Exploration Manager in the Democratic Republic of Congo, overseeing a very large kimberlite and base metal exploration programs, covering vast tenement holdings on the Kasai Carton. Earlier in his career, Mr. Pawlitschek held senior roles with BHP Billiton, focused on gold, copper, and diamond exploration across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. He has also worked extensively in Australia's Yilgarn and Victorian gold belts in both exploration and underground mine geology roles. From 2014 to 2022, Mr. Pawlitschek served as Senior Vice President, Geology at Appian Capital Advisory LLP, a London-based mining private equity firm with over US$2 billion in assets under management at the time. In this role, he led geological due diligence, technical assessments, and exploration oversight on investments in gold, base metals, and critical minerals globally, including several projects with successful exits. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours, First Class) in Applied Geology from the University of Technology Sydney and a Master's in Petroleum Engineering from the University of New South Wales. Mr. Pawlitschek is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). Colin Porter Colin Porter will be stepping down as a Director of the Company but will continue in his role as Vice President, Exploration. He will lead all of Avanti's exploration programs, including further work on the Misisi Project. "The Board thanks Colin for his valuable contributions as a Director and looks forward to supporting him in his ongoing role as we continue to advance the Misisi Project," said Sir Sam Jonah. About Avanti Gold Corp. Avanti Gold Corp. is a gold exploration company focused on advancing its portfolio of high-potential projects in Africa. The Company's flagship asset, the Misisi Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, hosts the Akyanga gold deposit, which contains an Inferred Mineral Resource of 44.3 million tonnes at an average grade of 2.37 g/t gold, totaling 3.1 million ounces of gold. The Misisi Project covers three contiguous 30-year mining leases totaling 133 km along the Kibara Gold Belt, a 55-kilometre-long gold-bearing trend in a prolific metallogenic province. On behalf of the Board of Directors AVANTI GOLD CORP. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) 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. This press release contains forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, opinions and estimates of the date such statements are made based on information available to them at that time. Forward-looking information may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the appointment of directors. Generally, forward looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the actual results of current exploration activities; other risks of the mining industry and the risks described in the annual financial form of the Company. Although 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 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company notes that mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259707 SOURCE: Avanti Gold Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQB: APAAF) (FWB: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce two significant funding achievements that will directly support its 2025 Saskatchewan exploration programs. Saskatchewan TMEI Grant Approval - Loranger Property Appia has been approved for and received a $98,355.52 grant cheque through the Saskatchewan Targeted Mineral Exploration Incentive (TMEI) program. The TMEI grant provides eligible exploration companies with funding equal to 25% of qualifying exploration costs--including diamond drilling, downhole surveys, logging, and geophysical surveys--incurred within Saskatchewan. In 2024, Appia completed three diamond drill holes on its high-priority Loranger Rare Earth Element & Uranium property, with two holes confirming REE and uranium mineralization. Deficiency Deposit Refund - Otherside Property Appia has also received a full refund of $126,542.57 relating to the deficiency deposit originally posted on its Otherside property in February 2024 to allow the company to hold 100% ownership over the property. Following this in October 2024, Appia completed an airborne gravity gradiometer and magnetic survey over the Otherside property. This survey not only qualified for more than enough work expenditure to fully satisfy the 2024 expenditure commitment, but to also qualified the Company for a total refund of the initial $126,542.57 deposit. "On behalf of Appia, I would like to sincerely thank the Government of Saskatchewan for their ongoing support--both for the $98,355.52 TMEI grant approval and reimbursement of the $126,542.57 Otherside deficiency deposit. Their commitment to exploration allows us to reinvest these funds into our 2025 drill programs at several of our Saskatchewan properties. The province's leadership in uranium mining--helping Canada supply roughly 15 % of the world's mined uranium--and its emergence as North America's premier rare-earth jurisdiction, make this province the ideal partner for advancing critical-mineral exploration," said Tom Drivas, CEO of Appia. Use of Funds Appia intends to apply both the TMEI grant and deficiency deposit--totaling $224,898.09--toward its 2025 Saskatchewan exploration initiatives. Priority programs include follow-up drilling and geophysical surveys on the Otherside and Alces Lake properties, advancing the Company's objective to delineate high-grade rare earth and uranium targets in the Athabasca Basin region. For more information regarding the Saskatchewan Targeted Mineral Exploration Incentive (TMEI), please click here. For more information regarding the Saskatchewan Mineral Tenure Registry Regulations, please click here. About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release - Click HERE) which is 42,932.24 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See January 11th, 2024 Press Release - Click HERE) The Company is also focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, and exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 94,982.39 hectares (234,706.59 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Appia has 168.4 million common shares outstanding, 207.7 million shares fully diluted. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For more information, visit www.appiareu.com As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (X, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259712 SOURCE: Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Standard Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: STND) (OTCQB: STTDF) (FSE: 9SU0) ("Standard Uranium" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a summary of positive results from an airborne Time Domain Electromagnetic ("TDEM") survey completed on its 12,265-hectare Corvo Uranium Project ("Corvo", or the "Project") earlier this year. The Project is currently under a three-year earn-in option agreement with Aventis Energy Inc. ("Aventis") (CSE: AVE). Highlights: Refined EM Conductors : The modern TDEM dataset confirms and improves previously defined EM conductors on the Project, outlining 29 kilometres of prospective exploration strike length across the Project. Multiple high-priority target areas along the conductors have been identified based on overlapping historical geochemical surveys, sampling, and existing drill hole uranium intercepts. Integrated Target Development: The results of the recent airborne TDEM survey are currently undergoing further digital processing and modeling to prioritize target areas for inaugural drilling in 2026. Maiden Drill Program: A diamond drill program is being planned for Q1 2026 to begin testing targets developed and ranked through the detailed exploration and geophysical programs executed in 2025. "Upgrading and confirming the presence of conductive corridors across the Project is an ideal first step in our exploration efforts at Corvo. Along with the recently completed prospecting and sampling program this month, we've confirmed the presence of at least 29 kilometres of conductive stratigraphy as well as multiple radioactive occurrences at surface," commented Sean Hillacre, President & VP Exploration of Standard Uranium, "We look forward to receiving our prospecting assay results as we complete the first NI 43-101 report on the Project and plan our next phase of geophysical surveys building towards targets for the 2026 drill program." Figure 1. Regional map of the Corvo Project. The Project is located 45 km northeast of Atha Energy's Gemini Mineralized Zone ("GMZ") and 60 km due east of Cameco's McArthur River mine. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/259717_efa2eaf104202b79_001full.jpg Corvo - 2025 Exploration Summary From February 22 to March 16, 2025, the Company contracted Axiom Exploration Group Ltd. in partnership with New Resolution Geophysics to carry out a helicopter-borne Xcite TDEM and total field magnetic survey over the 12,265-hectare Corvo Project. The survey covered all 13 mineral claims of the Project, totalling 1,670.5 line-kms with a traverse line spacing of 100 m and tie-line spacing of 1,000 m over a ~122.65 km2 area. The helicopter-assisted survey was flown using the 30Hz Xcite TDEM system that simultaneously collects time domain electromagnetic, and magnetic data. The extensive survey was aimed to detect, locate, and characterize anomalous conductive and magnetic responses across the Corvo Property to aid in future exploration drill hole targeting. The survey was completed on schedule, on budget, and successfully gathered high-resolution data to depth that will be key to identifying exploration targets under glacial cover through the delineation of conductive trends possibly related to packages of graphite and/or sulphide-bearing metasedimentary rocks commonly associated with uranium mineralization. Subsequent inversion, interpretation, and modeling of the recently acquired data in 3D software will allow the Company to prioritize newly identified exploration targets for follow-up diamond drilling programs. The survey results confirm and improve upon the previously defined conductive corridors on the Project that overlap with historical geophysical and geochemical anomalies, in addition to drill holes with known uranium intercepts. The magnetic survey component of the TDEM survey contributes to definition of potential fault systems and structural trends not previously identified across the Project. Supplementary geophysical surveys are being designed to further refine drill targets for an inaugural drill program. The Company plans to complete a high-resolution ground gravity survey across the main conductive trends on the Project, aiming to identify potential hydrothermal alteration halos which could be related to basement-hosted uranium mineralization. From July 4 to July 16, 2025, the Company's technical team completed a detailed mapping, prospecting, and sampling program to ground-truth historical uranium showings at surface. Collected grab samples have been transported to Saskatchewan Research Council Geoanalytical Laboratories in Saskatoon, SK for geochemical analysis. Results will be released and incorporated into the first NI 43-101 technical report on the Project. The Company believes the Project is highly prospective for the discovery of shallow, high-grade basement-hosted uranium mineralization akin to the Rabbit Lake deposit and the recently discovered Gemini Mineralized Zone. Located just outside the current margin of the Athabasca Basin, Corvo boasts shallow drill targets with bedrock under minimal cover of glacial till. Several outcrop showings of mineralized veins and fractures are present on the Project, notably the Manhattan Showing that returned historical sample results up to 59,800 ppm U at surface1 and has never been drill tested. Figure 2. Summary map showing modern TDEM conductor traces on the Corvo project with Reduced to Pole (RTP) Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) in the background. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/259717_efa2eaf104202b79_002full.jpg *The Company considers uranium mineralization with concentrations greater than 1.0 wt% U3O8 to be "high-grade". **The Company considers radioactivity readings greater than 300 counts per second (cps) to be "anomalous". Qualified Person Statement The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed, verified, and approved by Sean Hillacre, P.Geo., President and VP Exploration of the Company and a "qualified person" as defined in NI 43-101. Historical data disclosed in this news release relating to sampling results from previous operators are historical in nature. Neither the Company nor a qualified person has yet verified this data and therefore investors should not place undue reliance on such data. The Company's future exploration work may include verification of the data. The Company considers historical results to be relevant as an exploration guide and to assess the mineralization as well as economic potential of exploration projects. Any historical grab samples disclosed are selected samples and may not represent true underlying mineralization. References 1 SMDI# 2052: https://mineraldeposits.saskatchewan.ca/Home/Viewdetails/2052 & Mineral Assessment Report MAW00047: Eagle Plains Resources Inc., 2011-2012 About Standard Uranium (TSXV: STND) We find the fuel to power a clean energy future Standard Uranium is a uranium exploration company and emerging project generator poised for discovery in the world's richest uranium district. The Company holds interest in over 233,455 acres (94,476 hectares) in the world-class Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan, Canada. Since its establishment, Standard Uranium has focused on the identification, acquisition, and exploration of Athabasca-style uranium targets with a view to discovery and future development. Standard Uranium's Davidson River Project, in the southwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, comprises ten mineral claims over 30,737 hectares. Davidson River is highly prospective for basement-hosted uranium deposits due to its location along trend from recent high-grade uranium discoveries. However, owing to the large project size with multiple targets, it remains broadly under-tested by drilling. Recent intersections of wide, structurally deformed and strongly altered shear zones provide significant confidence in the exploration model and future success is expected. Standard Uranium's eastern Athabasca projects comprise over 42,384 hectares of prospective land holdings. The eastern basin projects are highly prospective for unconformity related and/or basement hosted uranium deposits based on historical uranium occurrences, recently identified geophysical anomalies, and location along trend from several high-grade uranium discoveries. Standard Uranium's Sun Dog project, in the northwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, is comprised of nine mineral claims over 19,603 hectares. The Sun Dog project is highly prospective for basement and unconformity hosted uranium deposits yet remains largely untested by sufficient drilling despite its location proximal to uranium discoveries in the area. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations; timing of the Company's exploration programs; and estimates of market conditions. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. 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. Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are highlighted in the "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's management discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2024. Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Company's actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein. Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation: that the transaction with the Optionee will proceed as planned; the future price of uranium; anticipated costs and the Company's ability to raise additional capital if and when necessary; volatility in the market price of the Company's securities; future sales of the Company's securities; the Company's ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the success of exploration, development and operations activities; the timing and results of drilling programs; the discovery of mineral resources on the Company's mineral properties; the costs of operating and exploration expenditures; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); uncertainties related to title to mineral properties; assessments by taxation authorities; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements and the assumptions made with respect thereto are made as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259717 SOURCE: Standard Uranium Ltd. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Romios Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: RG) (OTC Pink: RMIOF) (FSE: D4R) ("Romios Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it is proceeding with a non-brokered private placement of up to 25 million working capital units ("WC Units") priced at $0.02 per WC Unit for up to $500,000 (the "Offering"). Each WC Unit comprises one (1) common share of the Company priced at $0.02 and one full common share purchase warrant (a "WC Warrant") entitling the holder to acquire one (1) common share for three years exercisable at a price of $0.05 until two years following the closing of the Offering (the "Closing") and at $0.06 until the third anniversary of Closing. Funds will be used for exploration and working capital. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four month and one day hold period. The transaction is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. No funds from the sale of the WC Units will be used for payments for investor relations activities. Up to 20% of the funds raised may be paid to non-arm's length parties for services provided to the Company following the Closing subject to the availability of funds. The funds from the sale of the WC Units will be allocated as to $50,000 to maintain the Company's properties in Nevada and the balance for general working capital. Two insiders of the Company have subscribed for 5,500,000 WC Units for $110,000 and insiders may subscribe for a further 2,000,000 WC Units for a total of up to $150,000 of the Offering. The insider private placements are exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1) (a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration for the securities of the Company which will be issued to the insiders will not exceed 25% of its market capitalization. The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. About Romios Gold Resources Inc.: Romios Gold Resources Inc. is a progressive Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in precious and base metal exploration, focused primarily on gold, copper and silver. The Company holds a 100% interest in the Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property plus four additional claim blocks in northwestern Ontario and extensive claim holdings covering several wholly-owned porphyry copper-gold prospects in British Columbia's "Golden Triangle", the most significant of which is the near road-accessible, drill-ready Trek South prospect, considered by many among the best new-to-science, undrilled porphyry prospects in the province. Additional interests include two former producers in Nevada: the Kinkaid claims in the Walker Lane Trend covering numerous shallow Au-Ag-Cu workings over what is believed to be one or more porphyry centres, and the Scossa mine property in the Sleeper Trend which is a former high-grade gold producer. The Company retains an ongoing interest in several properties including a 2% NSR on McEwen Mining's Hislop gold property in Ontario; a 2% NSR on Enduro Metals' Newmont Lake Au-Cu-Ag property in BC, and the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Copperhead Resources Inc. ("Copperhead") whereby Copperhead can acquire a 75% ownership interest in Romios' Red Line Property in BC. For more information, please click here for Romios' website. This news release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. N OT FOR DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, RELEASE, OR PUBLICATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259749 SOURCE: Romios Gold Resources Inc. Startup Introduces AI-Powered Voice-Based Cognitive Screening and Care Planning Platform, Guided by Expert in Aging, Neuropsychology and Implementation Science RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / CaringAI, a healthcare AI company advancing how dementia is detected and managed, today announced its official launch alongside the appointment of Dr. Stephanie Ruth Young, M.Ed., Ph.D., as Clinical Research Advisor. CaringAI's first product, a phone-optimized cognitive screening and care planning platform, uses speech-based AI to overcome barriers for clinicians, caregivers, and the millions of older adults at risk for cognitive decline. CaringAI Logo As CaringAI launches, Dr. Young's deep clinical and research expertise provides critical oversight and guidance to ensure the technology meets both scientific and practical care thresholds. Dr. Young is a licensed psychologist and Assistant Professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, in the Department of Medical Social Sciences. She specializes in cognitive aging, neuropsychological assessment, and the implementation of technology in clinical care settings. As Principal and Co-Investigator on several NIH-funded grants, including the MyCog and MyCog Mobile projects, she has led efforts to embed innovative cognitive screening tools into real-world clinical workflows, bringing translational experience that directly supports CaringAI's mission. "Dr. Young brings a rare combination of clinical, academic, and implementation experience that will help ensure our tools are not only evidence-based, but practical for real-world care," said Justin Mason, CEO of CaringAI. "Her leadership in cognitive aging research and her work integrating technology into frontline settings directly supports our mission to make dementia detection more accessible, scalable, and aligned with the needs of older adults, caregivers, and clinical teams." Later this month, Dr. Young will present new research on improving dementia detection in primary care at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) in Toronto. "CaringAI's approach reflects what's urgently needed in cognitive health: accessible, evidence-based tools that fit within the realities of care delivery," said Dr. Young. "I'm excited to support a solution that reaches older adults through a simple and familiar medium - a telephone - without sacrificing clinical quality." Co-founded with FutureSight Ventures, CaringAI brings together leaders in clinical research, dementia care, and artificial intelligence. Its product suite is designed to support early detection, care coordination, and real-time decision-making: CaringAI Listen TM : A phone-first, multimodal voice agent that delivers structured cognitive assessments and passively analyzes speech to generate DSM-5-aligned cognitive reports and care recommendations. CaringAI PlanTM: A care planning assistant powered by dementia-specific research and navigation guidelines, enabling care teams to build customized, evidence-based plans based on screening results or existing patient needs. Dr. Young's appointment underscores the company's commitment to scientific rigor, real-world usability, and patient-centered design, serving the needs of those often overlooked in traditional dementia care models. About CaringAI CaringAI is a healthcare AI company transforming how dementia and cognitive decline are identified, assessed, and supported. Its solution includes a phone-based cognitive assessment powered by speech-optimized AI and structured tasks, an AI-driven care planning assistant for care teams, and optional dementia care navigation services for practices that need them. Built for real-world clinical workflows, CaringAI enables earlier detection, coordinated care, and better outcomes for patients, caregivers, and health systems. About FutureSight Ventures FutureSight is a venture studio located in Toronto and San Francisco that co-founds and funds vertical B2B AI SaaS companies with value-driven entrepreneurs. Backed by top-tier investors, FutureSight provides capital, strategy, and product support to help companies scale from idea to impact. SOURCE: CaringAI View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/caringai-launches-voice-based-dementia-care-platform-appoints-dr.-ste-1050550 New languages and productivity enhancements strengthen DeepL Voice as enterprise adoption accelerates worldwide NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DeepL, a leading global Language AI company, today announced several updates to its live speech translation solution, DeepL Voice, including expanded language support and advanced meeting productivity features, with Zoom Meetings integration coming soon. As adoption accelerates among enterprises such as Inetum, Cybozu and Brioche Pasquier, these enhancements further position DeepL Voice as an essential solution for seamless multilingual communication in today's global workplace. "Global businesses can't afford to be slowed down by language barriers. That's why over 200,000 business customers trust DeepL to help them communicate clearly every day," said Jarek Kutylowski, CEO and Founder of DeepL. "These new updates to DeepL Voice enable teams to communicate in additional languages, including Mandarin Chinese, and stay productive with easy access to post-meeting transcripts and translations. And with upcoming availability on Zoom Meetings, we're making real-time, multilingual communication even more seamless, accessible and impactful for global teams." Language barriers create daily friction for global businesses - nearly 70% report operational issues caused by language gaps in areas like internal collaboration, customer service and IT, and 61% say these challenges have slowed or limited their international growth. Launched in November 2024, DeepL Voice addresses this challenge by empowering multilingual speech translation in real time, both virtually and in person. DeepL Voice for Meetings provides translated captions during virtual meetings, while DeepL Voice for Conversations offers instant speech translation on mobile for dynamic face-to-face interactions. Today's updates unlock even more capabilities for DeepL Voice, including: Expanded language coverage: DeepL Voice now supports spoken input in three additional languages - Mandarin Chinese, Ukrainian, and Romanian - adding to its existing lineup (English, German, Japanese, Korean, Swedish, Dutch, French, Turkish, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Italian). Translated captions are available in 35 languages supported by DeepL Translator, with new additions Vietnamese and Hebrew. DeepL Voice now supports spoken input in three additional languages - Mandarin Chinese, Ukrainian, and Romanian - adding to its existing lineup (English, German, Japanese, Korean, Swedish, Dutch, French, Turkish, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Italian). Translated captions are available in 35 languages supported by DeepL Translator, with new additions Vietnamese and Hebrew. Enhanced meeting productivity features: Full transcripts and translations from meetings to streamline notes, minutes and follow-up tasks can be downloaded with dedicated admin controls to maintain enterprise-level security and compliance. In addition, DeepL Voice for Meetings will soon be available for Zoom Meetings, expanding beyond its existing Microsoft Teams integration to make multilingual communication accessible on one of the world's most widely used virtual meeting platforms. For in-person interactions, DeepL Voice for Conversations continues to be available on iOS and Android. Amid this momentum, DeepL Voice is gaining traction among global enterprises such as Inetum, Cybozu and Brioche Pasquier, who are integrating the solution to break down language barriers and accelerate collaboration. Inetum, a global IT consultancy with nearly 28,000 employees in 19 countries, leverages DeepL Voice to assign consultants based on expertise rather than language fluency, ensuring the right skills are matched to the right projects and strengthening international teamwork. "[With DeepL Voice], we can distribute our internal support teams across different countries, so that we can respond to any employee, regardless of language," said Sebastien Dumon, CTO team member, Inetum. By leveraging proprietary AI models specifically tuned for real-time speech translation, DeepL Voice delivers the accuracy, quality, and security that businesses worldwide depend on to power critical communications. Security and data privacy are central to DeepL Voice, which adheres to the enterprise-grade standards DeepL is known for. For more information on DeepL Voice, visit https://www.deepl.com/products/voice. About DeepL DeepL is on a mission to break down language barriers for businesses and individuals everywhere. Over 200,000 customers and millions of individuals across 228 global markets trust DeepL's Language AI platform for human-like translation in both written and spoken formats, as well as natural, improved writing. Designed with enterprise security in mind, companies around the world leverage DeepL's AI solutions, specifically tuned for language, to transform business communication, expand markets, and improve productivity. Founded in 2017 by CEO Jaroslaw "Jarek" Kutylowski, DeepL now has over 1,000 passionate employees and is supported by world-renowned investors including Benchmark, IVP, and Index Ventures. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736271/DeepLVoiceForZoom_wLanguages.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/deepl-expands-real-time-voice-translation-capabilities-with-new-features-and-upcoming-zoom-integration-302511788.html RALEIGH, N.C., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Edge One Capital discloses its proposal for BuzzFeed by Varun Gupta. BuzzFeed is at a crucial moment, where it has the chance to create sustainable, long-lasting value. Despite possessing a formidable brand equity, a substantial media footprint, and a wealth of underutilized intellectual property, BuzzFeed has dramatically underperformed relative to its potential. The public markets have lost confidence, not because of a lack of opportunities, but due to missed execution, governance inefficiencies, and strategic inertia. BuzzFeed can unlock substantial shareholder value through a bold, modern transformation across four key areas: 1. Establish a Digital Asset Treasury Strategy BuzzFeed's current balance sheet position, combined with its cultural cache and brand resonance among digital-native audiences, makes it a unique candidate to lead the next era of media and crypto convergence. A growing number of public companies-from MicroStrategy to Strive Asset Management-have adopted digital asset strategies not merely as hedges, but as capital appreciation tools and balance sheet enhancers. BuzzFeed can allocate a portion of its treasury to Bitcoin or Solana, establishing a Digital Asset Treasury (DAT). This would: Signal strategic forward-thinking to investors Tap into new asset appreciation trends while diversifying the balance sheet. Attract a new demographic of crypto-native retail and institutional shareholders. BuzzFeed could pursue partnerships with firms aligned with these goals, such as Strive Asset Management, co-founded by Vivek Ramaswamy. Strive is currently going public via Asset Entities, offering a potential alignment of interests. Additionally, BuzzFeed could look to Michael Saylor's playbook at MicroStrategy, whose Bitcoin-centric capital allocation has radically transformed its investor base and market perception. Solana presents a unique opportunity not only to grow asset value but also to create staking rewards, which can generate cash flow. BuzzFeed can go further: acquiring or merging with smaller, cash-rich, or crypto-native companies to consolidate treasury capital while entering new ecosystems and monetizing community engagement through NFTs, creator-based DAOs, or crypto rewards. 2. Immediate Corporate Governance Reforms Are Needed BuzzFeed's current corporate governance model has been criticized for its dual-class share structure, lack of board independence, and inadequate capital allocation discipline. As activist investors, we see this not only as a risk but as a problem that can be solved. We urge the Board to: Sunset or significantly reform the dual-class structure to restore voting equality Appoint independent directors with experience in digital finance, tokenomics, AI, and blockchain strategy. Tie executive compensation more directly to shareholder returns and operational milestones, without immediate vesting. Improve transparency on strategic decisions and resource allocations, particularly regarding BuzzFeed, HuffPost, and new AI initiatives. If these changes are not made proactively, BuzzFeed risks continued stagnation in its stock price and potential shareholder revolt. One of the unspoken challenges in fixing BuzzFeed's corporate governance is that any meaningful reform could put Jonah Peretti and other insiders at personal risk-risk of losing control, influence, or even their positions entirely. It's understandable why there might be hesitation. Addressing corporate governance challenges will help restore investor confidence and expand access to capital markets for new investors, while also creating opportunities for BuzzFeed. Even a start or attempt to address corporate governance challenges will bolster investor confidence. BuzzFeed has chosen to remain silent on many of the issues that investors, such as Bill Pulte, have brought up. Craven avoidance of engagement must be replaced with open and constructive dialogue with all investors. 3. Monetize Intellectual Property Through Products and Tokenization BuzzFeed has decades of IP, formats, and viral characters that remain underutilized. From Tasty and Quiz brands to BuzzFeed Unsolved, this content has potential far beyond ad revenue. The Company should explore: Tokenizing digital IP via NFTs, limited edition creator access passes, or interactive Web3 fan experiences Licensing characters, brands, and formats for physical product lines, games, or metaverse integrations Exploring blockchain-based revenue sharing with creators to deepen loyalty and unlock new monetization models Launching a BuzzToken or TastyCoin tied to exclusive content access, physical merchandise, or fan voting Additionally, partnering with platforms like Solana could give BuzzFeed a first-mover advantage in media-token convergence, with minimal upfront cost and maximum community upside. 4. Repair Investor Relations In the last three quarters, the company's earnings calls have been alarmingly short and uninformative, with one lasting under nine minutes. This level of engagement is simply not enough-if BuzzFeed wants investor support, it must demonstrate that it is putting in the effort to earn it. To repair credibility and expand its valuation multiple, BuzzFeed must start by holding substantial quarterly calls, providing full Q&A time, discussing financials, AI investments, the BF Island timeline (which has been delayed), and monetization efforts. These changes will rebuild investor confidence and revive support for the stock. BuzzFeed is a brand with extraordinary cultural cache and financial upside-if bold action is taken. Through a digital asset treasury strategy, governance reform, IP monetization, and improved investor relations, BuzzFeed can shift from stagnation to revival. This is not a media company in decline; it is a modern digital brand waiting to be reborn through better leadership and sharper strategic execution. Previous Press Releases: Edge One Capital Sends Letter to BuzzFeed Demanding Overhaul of Governance and Corporate Board Edge One Capital Highlights Concerns about BuzzFeed's Governance in Series of Letters to Management Edge One Capital Takes Stake in BuzzFeed Previous Letters: To view the First Letter, click here . To view the Second Letter, click here . To view the Third Letter, click here . About Edge One Capital: Edge One Capital is an investment firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina, with an emphasis on deep long-term value for all of its investments. For more information, please contact info@edgeonecapital.com or visit www.edgeonecapital.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2469641/Edge_One_Capital_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/buzzfeeds-digital-asset-treasury-strategy-and-monetization-efforts-proposed-by-edge-one-capital-302511410.html Paris, France, Cambridge, USA, July 23, 2025 - TISSIUM, a MedTech company pioneering biomorphic programmable polymers for tissue reconstruction, today announced the commercial launch of COAPTIUM Connect in the United States, following its recent DeNovo marketing authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This milestone marks a new chapter for TISSIUM as it enters its commercial phase in the U.S. market. COAPTIUM Connect, the first product in TISSIUM's nerve repair portfolio, introduces a novel atraumatic solution for sutureless nerve coaptation. By reducing surgical complexity and eliminating the need for microsutures, the product is designed to improve outcomes in peripheral nerve repair procedures. "The U.S. launch of COAPTIUM Connect is a major inflection point for TISSIUM," said Christophe Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of TISSIUM. "We are now executing on our mission to bring multiple transformative technologies from the lab to the OR, delivering meaningful improvements for patients and surgeons." Governance Evolution to Support Innovation and Commercial Growth in Tandem In parallel with the commercial rollout led by Chris Crisman, TISSIUM's Chief Commercial Officer, the Company is implementing a targeted organization evolution of its executive governance to support its transition from clinical-stage focused organization to include global commercial operations while developing multiple novels surgical solutions in multiple surgical verticals. Effective immediately: Thomas Chabanis, previously General Counsel, is appointed General Counsel & Chief Ethics, Compliance & Quality Officer, reflecting the company's commitment to operational excellence, quality, and sustainable growth, Dr. Maria Pereira, previously Chief Innovation Officer, is promoted to Deputy CEO and Chief Innovation Officer. She will oversee the full innovation lifecycle, from scientific ideation throughout regulatory approval, ensuring alignment between Innovation, Research & Development and product strategies across the full portfolio of TISSIUM current and future innovative solutions, Christophe Bancel, TISSIUM's Chief Executive Officer, will have a sharpened focus on downstream functions post-approval, including commercial execution, market access, manufacturing scale-up, and long-term strategic positioning. "This organization change reflects our deliberate evolution into a fully integrated medtech platform" added Christophe Bancel. "Maria's elevation and Thomas' expanded role strengthen our leadership as we scale across innovation and commercialization in tandem. This is a critical step toward building a long-term leader in atraumatic tissue repair". About TISSIUM TISSIUM is a clinical and commercial stage MedTech company based in Paris, France, Cambridge, USA, and with a manufacturing site in Roncq, France. The company is pioneering a proprietary platform of fully biosynthetic, biomorphic, programmable, elastomeric polymers designed to address critical unmet needs in atraumatic tissue repair and tissue reconstruction. TISSIUM's diversified pipeline includes seven products across three core verticals: sutureless nerve repair, atraumatic hernia repair, and cardiovascular sealants. Each solution is designed to optimize tissue repair through controlled and consistent procedures with specialized delivery and activation devices to maximize the performance and usability of its products. Founded in 2013, TISSIUM is built on breakthrough research and intellectual property originating from the laboratories of Professor Robert Langer (MIT) and Professor Jeffrey M. Karp (Brigham and Women's Hospital). For more information, please visit www.TISSIUM.com and follow us on LinkedIn: TISSIUM. *** Contacts Investor relations Romain Attard - Chief Financial Officer rattard@tissium.com Attachment Rimouski, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Puma Exploration Inc. (TSXV: PUMA) (OTCQB: PUMXF) (the "Company" or "Puma") has initiated a 3,500 metres drill program on its Lynx Gold Zone ("LGZ"), part of the Williams Brook Gold Project in Northern New Brunswick. This initial 3,500 metres of drilling at the Lynx Gold Zone is part of the fully funded $2M exploration program and 5,000-metre drilling program devised in collaboration with Kinross Gold for 2025. The program is designed to follow up on drilling information and results gathered by Puma from 2021 to 2023 and is aimed at intersecting new gold mineralization, delineating lithological contacts and providing more insights on structural patterns. The current drilling plan covers an area of 700 metres by 480 metres by 225 metres. Puma's President and CEO, Marcel Robillard, commented, "We're excited to see the drill turning again at the Lynx Gold Zone with our partner Kinross Gold. We anticipate that our 2025 drilling program will not only demonstrate the quality of the deposit at Lynx but also highlight the potential of the entire 40,000 ha project." Following the initial 3,500-metre program at Lynx, a subsequent 1,500-metre program will target the best prospects on the property, based on the results of the ongoing 2025 trenching, stripping, surface channel sampling and the current drilling program. Figure 1: Location of the main gold zones at the Williams Brook Gold Project To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3398/259753_91c6b0cce4710b5d_001full.jpg Image 1. Drill arriving on site To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3398/259753_91c6b0cce4710b5d_002full.jpg LYNX GOLD ZONE The Lynx Gold Zone ("LGZ"), discovered in 2020 by high-grade surface sampling, was subsequently confirmed to extend to depth by drilling. The high-grade gold mineralization at Lynx is characterized by finely disseminated gold in quartz (veins, veinlets, stockworks, breccias) affected by pervasive supergene alteration. With only 16,123 metres of drilling, the gold mineralized and alteration envelope at the Lynx Gold Zone currently measures 750 metres along strike, 100 metres in width, and 175 metres in depth. Highlights of drilling programs at the Lynx Gold Zone In 2021, the inaugural 2,300 metres drilling program returned 5.55 g/t gold over 50.15 metres from surface, including two high-grade gold veins with 9.88 g/t gold over 8.60 metres and 46.94 g/t gold over 3.85 metres in hole WB21-02 (see September 15, 2021, News Release). In 2022, a follow-up 10,348 metres drilling program confirmed near-surface gold zones (0-75 metres depth) 200 metres from the initial discovery. Highlights included 34.93 g/t gold over 3.00 metres within a wider zone assaying 6.47 g/t gold over 16.90 metres in hole WB22-25; 22.28 g/t gold over 3.20 metres within a wider gold intercept of 3.97 g/t gold over 22.10 metres in hole WB22-36 and 51.73 g/t gold over 1.85 metres and 10.70 gold over 2.00 metres in hole WB22-66 (see April 28, 2022, June 8, 2022; and September 29, 2022 News Releases). In 2023, 24 holes (3,475 metres) successfully extended the width and length of the high-grade gold shoots to 250 metres downhole depth and demonstrated the continuity of mineralization over long intervals (see October 19, 2023, October 31, 2023, and November 16, 2023 News Releases for the results below); TABLE 1. Highlights of high-grade gold assays at the Lynx Gold Zone Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length* (m) Au (g/t) WB21-01 4.00 6.10 2.10 12.71 WB21-02 7.20 10.20 3.00 8.33 WB21-02 13.70 15.80 2.10 28.52 WB21-02 45.60 49,45 3,85 46.94 WB21-03 55.90 58.10 2.20 7.81 WB21-05 26.00 28.00 2.00 12.64 WB21-06 46.80 49.70 2.90 16.92 WB21-09 16.30 18.00 1.70 15.52 WB21-12 28.60 32.40 3.80 6.93 WB21-16 80.00 88.35 8.35 5.11 WB21-17 107.00 111.65 4.65 4.85 WB22-25 2.00 5.00 3.00 34.93 WB22-26 25.50 27.10 1.60 14.06 WB22-35 14.90 17.50 2.60 5.83 WB22-36 3.80 7.00 3.20 22.28 WB22-36 16.40 18.00 1.60 6.70 WB22-39 26.50 29.00 2.50 11.71 WB22-58 11.70 12.90 1.20 16.85 WB22-60 40.00 40.60 0.60 21.00 WB22-66 32.00 34.00 2.00 10.70 WB22-66 66.50 68.35 1.85 51.73 WB22-88 58.00 58.20 0.20 47.20 WB22-91 7.00 10.75 3.75 10.96 WB22-94 52.80 53.55 0.75 19.10 WB22-94 59.20 59.80 0.60 14.19 WB22-96 56.90 60.50 3.60 14.90 WB22-101 21.45 22.00 0.55 9.09 WB22-110 6.40 17.20 10.80 0.53 WB23-125 42.05 92.90 50.85 1.05 WB23-128 95.15 95.65 0.50 16.10 WB23-129 45.25 48.45 3.20 10.36 WB23-131 53.80 59.75 5.95 1.39 WB23-132 85.50 89.65 4.15 3.18 WB23-133 30.95 61.80 30.85 0.59 WB23-136 37.15 39.20 2.05 10.38 WB23-137 2.71 33.66 30.95 0.67 WB23-139 89.95 153.00 63.05 2.49 WB23-140 4.00 7.00 3.00 5.21 WB23-140 129.35 158.70 29.35 1.19 WB23-142 58.85 82.00 23.15 5.15 WB23-142 90.70 91.00 0.30 9.61 WB23-143 94.45 95.00 0.55 16.05 WB23-144 72.85 76.85 4.00 2.32 WB23-144 153.00 162.05 9.05 2.55 WB23-145 80.35 86.00 5.65 10.81 WB23-145 169.65 174.75 5.10 9.91 WB23-145 246.00 249.00 3.00 1.01 *Stated lengths in metres are downhole core lengths and not true widths. True widths will be calculated once more drilling confirms the geometry of the quartz-sulphide system. Qualified Person The scientific and technical content of this press release has been prepared, reviewed, and approved by Mr. Dominique Gagne, P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). On-site quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) measures Drill core samples reported in this release were bagged, sealed and sent to ALS Chemex in Moncton, New Brunswick, where each sample was crushed and pulped before being fire-assayed (Au-ICP21). The remaining coarse reject portions of the samples remain in storage for further work or verification as needed. As part of its QA/QC program, Puma inserted external gold standards (low to high-grade) and blanks every 20 samples in addition to standards, blanks, and duplicates. All samples over 10 g/t gold or with abundant visible gold were analyzed with a gravity finish (Au-GRA22). Check assays were routinely performed for samples with visible gold to ascertain the gold content of the mineralization zone. About the Williams Brook Project The Williams Brook Project (40,225 ha), optioned to Kinross Gold Corp (see October 24, 2024 News Release), comprises the Williams Brook, Jonpol and the Portage Properties. To earn a 65% interest in the project, Kinross will finance a minimum of $16.75 M in exploration expenditures over the next five years (including a firm commitment of $2 M with at least 5,000 metres of drilling in the first 18 months (2025-2026). About Puma's Assets in New Brunswick Puma has accumulated an impressive portfolio of prospective gold landholdings strategically located close to roads and infrastructure in Northern New Brunswick, including the Williams Brook Project and the new McKenzie Gold Project. Both are located near the Rocky Brook Millstream Fault ("RBMF"), a major regional structure formed during the Appalachian Orogeny and a significant control for gold deposition in the region. Puma's work to date has focused on the Williams Brook property, but prospecting and surface exploration work on its other properties have confirmed their potential for significant gold mineralization. Figure 2: Puma's landholdings and ownership in Northern New Brunswick To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3398/259753_91c6b0cce4710b5d_003full.jpg About Puma Exploration Puma Exploration is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on identifying and developing a pipeline of precious metals projects in New Brunswick, near Canada's Renowned Bathurst Mining Camp. Puma has a long history in Northern New Brunswick, having worked on regional projects for over 15 years. Puma's successful exploration methodology, which combines traditional prospecting methods with detailed trenching and cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, has been instrumental in facilitating an understanding of the region's geology and associated mineralized systems. Armed with geophysical surveys, geochemical data, and consultants' expertise, Puma has developed a cost-effective exploration tool to discover gold at shallow depths and maximize drilling results. 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 press release may contain forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve several known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Puma to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made, except as required by law. Puma undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. The quarterly and annual reports and the documents submitted to the securities administration describe these risks and uncertainties. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259753 SOURCE: Puma Exploration Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Origen Resources Inc. (CSE: ORGN) (FSE: 4VXA) (the "Company") is pleased to provide the following update on its exploration plans for 2025 across its diverse portfolio of precious, base and battery metal projects. Exploration Plans for 2025 Los Sapitos Origen is planning to follow up on its successful exploration program at Los Sapitos with a geophysical program over the newly identified areas of interest recently announced. This program will help delineate the basin configuration and guide future drilling. Wishbone The Company intends to complete a Lidar survey over the property that will aid in defining drill targets. Origen's team will also be following up on last years successful program that yielded gold at the new 'Lake' showing with a boulder sample returning 164.7 ppm gold1. Of the 37 samples collected last year, 11 returned greater than 1 ppm gold and 26 greater than 0.1 ppm gold. A boulder containing Chalcopyrite returning 14.6% Copper1 was found along the southern edge of the glacier close to where Origen Geologists found 203 ppm gold in a rounded boulder1 of float in 2023. Two additional samples returned 6.5 ppm and 5.7 ppm gold were collected from veins near the eastern edge of the Central Glacier and trend under the ice1; these areas will be prioritized in the 2025 field program with work including hand trenching and additional sampling. 1Grab samples are by definition selective. Grab samples are solely designed to show the presence or absence of mineralization, and are not intended to provide nor should be construed as a representative indication of grade or mineralization at the Wishbone Project. Project Generation Origen's team has been working on identifying critical metals and REE projects within Europe and the Americas. Several potential acquisitions have been identified to-date and will require additional investigation and site visits this year to confirm their merit. "Project generation is the key to the Company's future success and a cornerstone of our business plan. We have successfully been able monetise 5 of our generated projects over our short corporate existence. Our strength is new project generation and we intend to capitalise on this to build shareholder value moving forward," states Gary Schellenberg, CEO. Financing The Company intends to undertake a non-brokered private placement financing for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $750,000 (the "Offering"). The Offering will consist of 15,000,000 units (each a "Unit") at a price of $0.05 per Unit. Each Unit will be comprised of one Share and one share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder to acquire one additional Share in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.075 per Share for a period of 18 months from the date of issuance. All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be issued pursuant to one or more prospectus exemptions available to the Company and will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance as required under applicable securities laws. Closing of the Offering will be subject to customary closing conditions that include applicable CSE filings and approvals. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for general working capital and exploration expenditures. The Company may pay finder's fees in connection with the Offering to eligible arm's length finders in accordance with CSE policies and applicable securities laws. None of the securities sold in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and no such securities may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About Origen Origen is fully focused on its 100% interest in the Los Sapitos Lithium project in Argentina and its 100% owned gold-silver Wishbone project in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, along with a property portfolio of three 100% owned precious and base metal projects in southern British Columbia. Thomas Hawkins, P.Geo., a director of the Company and a Qualified Person as that term is defined in NI 43-101 has prepared, supervised the preparation or approved the scientific and technical disclosure in the news release. On behalf of Origen, Gary Schellenberg CEO and Director 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. Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular, references to project generation and possible results thereof, and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259742 SOURCE: Origen Resources Inc. DUBAI, UAE, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bybit , the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, released a new decentralized finance (DeFi) report , encapsulating significant shifts in the sector with real-world assets (RWA) and decentralized exchanges (DEXs) as new drivers. Unlike the frenzy of DeFi Summer of 2020, institutional adoption and utility-focused applications are fueling today's market. Key Insights DeFi's Institutional Play: Regulatory clarity stemming from events such as the GENIUS Act and Circle's IPO has spurred institutional interest in DeFi lending and tokenized assets. Backed by the mainstreaming of stablecoins, DeFi's integration with traditional finance has been driven by institutional interest. Total DeFi lending deposits reached $67.8 billion across platforms including Aave, Morpho, and Maple Finance. RWA platforms like Securitize, Ondo Finance, and Franklin Templeton are enabling yield opportunities backed by US Treasuries, bridging crypto and mainstream investing. Regulatory clarity stemming from events such as the GENIUS Act and Circle's IPO has spurred institutional interest in DeFi lending and tokenized assets. Backed by the mainstreaming of stablecoins, DeFi's integration with traditional finance has been driven by institutional interest. Total DeFi lending deposits reached $67.8 billion across platforms including Aave, Morpho, and Maple Finance. RWA platforms like Securitize, Ondo Finance, and Franklin Templeton are enabling yield opportunities backed by US Treasuries, bridging crypto and mainstream investing. DEXs Challenge Centralized Players: Hyperliquid leads perpetual futures trading with $1.27 trillion in year-to-date volume, showing DEXs can play in the same league as CEXs. This has encouraged hybrid platforms like Byreal, which combine CEX liquidity with DeFi transparency. Hyperliquid leads perpetual futures trading with $1.27 trillion in year-to-date volume, showing DEXs can play in the same league as CEXs. This has encouraged hybrid platforms like Byreal, which combine CEX liquidity with DeFi transparency. Divergent Performance: While RWA and DEX sectors flourish, AI-related DeFi (DeFAI) tokens face declining interest and liquid staking growth remains constrained by token volatility. The report approaches the state of play in DeFi with sector highlights from all aspects, demonstrating DeFi's transition toward utility-focused applications anchored in real-world use cases. As institutional RWA adoption accelerates and hybrid solutions emerge, DeFi positions itself as on-chain financial infrastructure, combining centralized finance performance with decentralized transparency. Bybit / TheCryptoArk / BybitReport About Bybit Bybit is the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 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/2736707/Source_Bybit_CoinGecko.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2267288/5427653/Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybit-defi-report-rwa-and-dexs-thrive-despite-cooling-market-activity-302511953.html AALMV Wins NSF Phase II Grant to Launch DroneWolf.AI-Revolutionizing Physics and AI Education Through Drone Missions ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / AALMV (Advancing Applied Learning for Mission Victory) has been awarded a prestigious $1,025,369 Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to commercialize DroneWolf.AI, a cutting-edge educational platform using drone missions to teach physics, AI, and robotics. Drone Thermal Sensor over firefighters Students learn to operate, tweak and design new ways to use drones/sensors to help first response mission DroneWolf.AI transforms how students learn by immersing them in mission-critical drone scenarios to master AP Physics concepts and build certified technical skills. By simulating real-world challenges in robotics, automation, and machine learning, the platform bridges education and workforce readiness. DroneWolf.AI is a product of AALMV's deep roots in hands-on STEM learning through its nonprofit partner SOFWOLF (Warrior Outdoor Leadership for the Future), whose programs have helped students earn FAA Remote Pilot in Command certifications, learn Python, and gain exposure to real-world STEM applications in first responder and military contexts. With this NSF Phase II award, AALMV will expand from its base at the Maritime and Defense Technology Hub in St. Petersburg, Florida. The platform will serve schools and advanced manufacturing programs across Tampa Bay, Central Florida, and the Space Coast-regions central to U.S. defense readiness and innovation. "DroneWolf.AI is more than a teaching tool-it's a competitive framework where students develop and track AI models, test physics-based solutions in drone simulations, and gain real credentials," said Sara Moola, Founder and CEO of AALMV. "Thanks to NSF's support, we are building the next generation of mission-ready engineers and innovators." DroneWolf.AI integrates with CollegeBoard's AP Physics standards, edX lectures, and technical certifications such as Python and RPIC. It is supported by mentors and engineers from organizations like Lockheed Martin Skunkworks, Ford Advanced Manufacturing, and the U.S. Coast Guard. About AALMV: Advancing Applied Learning for Mission Victory is a mission-driven company dedicated to equipping students with applied physics, AI, and robotics skills through immersive drone-based education. About SOFWOLF: Founded in 2012, Warrior Outdoor Leadership for the Future is a nonprofit that delivers outdoor engineering, leadership, and STEM training to youth, with a special focus on military families. www.dronewolf.ai | www.sofwolf.org Contact Information Mike Vaughn mvaughn@sofwolf.org 813.943.6568 SOURCE: Sara E Moola View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/education/competitive-machine-learning-framework-to-teach-physics-and-robotics-for-workforce-readin-1051593 BATON ROUGE, LA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Vista Consulting has officially unveiled Vista Institute, a groundbreaking online education platform designed exclusively for plaintiff law firms. This innovative platform addresses a critical need for on-demand, customized learning that helps law firms optimize operations, enhance team performance, and drive growth. Vista Consulting Team- Vista Institute Vista Institute Logo The launch comes after decades of observing significant gaps in the marketplace for tailored legal education. Many small to mid-sized plaintiff law firms struggle to access industry-specific resources that support continuing education and operational improvement. Vista recognized this challenge and set out to create a solution that combines flexibility, expertise, and transformative insights. "Our work with firms revealed a common theme," said Mary Ellen Murrah, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer of Vista Consulting. "Plaintiff law firms need education resources that are practical, relevant, and adaptable to their unique challenges. Vista Institute is our answer to this demand: a platform built to empower firms to thrive in an increasingly competitive industry." Custom Learning, Anytime and Anywhere Unlike traditional training programs, Vista Institute delivers a fully customizable learning experience. The platform offers a wide range of courses designed to tackle critical areas for plaintiff law firms such as client intake, case management, reporting, leadership, and marketing. Firms can access content on-demand, allowing team members to learn at their own pace and test their knowledge without disrupting daily operations. Key features include: Expert-led video courses and modules. Downloadable resources and role-specific training paths. Interactive quizzes to reinforce learning. Increasing Efficiency and Driving Results At its core, Vista Institute is a business growth tool. Each course is designed to deliver strategies that lead to measurable outcomes. For example, firms looking to improve their intake process can follow step-by-step guidance to optimize lead conversion, while leadership courses focus on building stronger, more cohesive teams. Early adopters of the platform have reported noticeable improvements. Tina Jones, Office Manager and Marketing Director for Long & Long Attorneys, said, "Vista Institute has been my ultimate survival guide. Having their expert knowledge at my fingertips has completely transformed how I lead my law firm. From accounting and HR to data analysis and talent acquisition, every critical piece of running a successful practice is just a click away. The post-presentation Q&As are pure gold, providing actionable insights I can implement immediately. Thanks to Vista Institute, I've not only streamlined my operations, but also elevated my ability to lead with confidence and clarity. It's like having the ultimate roadmap to managing a thriving plaintiff law firm." Transforming the Education Landscape for Law Firms The introduction of Vista Institute marks a shift in how plaintiff law firms approach continuing education. By offering a platform that emphasizes customization, accessibility, and measurable results, Vista aims to set a new standard in the legal industry. "Law firms need more than generic advice and outdated training tools," added Vista's CEO Tim McKey. "They need resources that reflect the unique dynamics of plaintiff law practice. Vista Institute delivers exactly that." About Vista Consulting Vista Consulting specializes in helping plaintiff law firms optimize their operations and achieve greater success. With decades of industry experience, Vista has become a trusted partner for firms seeking data-driven solutions and practical operations guidance. For more information about Vista Institute and how to get started, visit https://vistainstitute.vistact.com/ SOURCE: Vista Consulting Team View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/vista-institute-launches-revolutionizing-education-for-plaintiff-1049975 Company Launches U.S. and European CLO Rankings Octus, the essential credit intelligence and data provider for the world's leading buy-side firms, investment banks, law firms, and advisory firms, today announced its comprehensive recap of the collateralized loan obligation (CLO) market for the first half of 2025. The company also introduces its CLO League Tables with rankings data of top participants across the U.S. and European markets, further enhancing transparency and analytical capabilities for market participants. "The first half of 2025 presented a complex and dynamic landscape for the CLO market, highlighted by significant volatility, evolving policy shifts, and strategic global reallocations," said Hugh Minch, Managing Editor, CLO Insights at Octus. "Our in-depth analysis provides critical clarity amidst these challenges, and with the launch of the Octus CLO League Tables, we are excited to deliver an unprecedented level of insight into manager and arranger activity, empowering our clients to make even more informed decisions." Key Trends and Developments from H1 2025 Identified by Octus Data: Market volatility sparked by tariff announcements : The U.S. tariff announcement in April led to a sharp selloff in the leveraged loan market, with transportation, home furnishings, and automotive sectors experiencing the largest average loan price declines in the U.S. CLO liabilities widened sharply but retraced most of their losses following the tariff pause, with the volatility ultimately presenting buying opportunities as spreads reset at more attractive levels. : The U.S. tariff announcement in April led to a sharp selloff in the leveraged loan market, with transportation, home furnishings, and automotive sectors experiencing the largest average loan price declines in the U.S. CLO liabilities widened sharply but retraced most of their losses following the tariff pause, with the volatility ultimately presenting buying opportunities as spreads reset at more attractive levels. Global reallocation and European momentum : U.S. investors are actively reallocating capital into European CLOs, particularly into equity and mezzanine tranches. This shift is driven by relative value, wider liability spreads, higher modeled equity returns, and perceived macro stability, all contributing to expectations of strong issuance volumes through early July. : U.S. investors are actively reallocating capital into European CLOs, particularly into equity and mezzanine tranches. This shift is driven by relative value, wider liability spreads, higher modeled equity returns, and perceived macro stability, all contributing to expectations of strong issuance volumes through early July. Divergence in fundamentals and pricing : Despite modest improvements in interest coverage ratios, CLO portfolio revenue growth declined to 4.74% in Q1 U.S. from 6% in Q4 2024, and net leverage slightly increased in the first quarter of 2025. This divergence highlights the increasing importance of manager quality and defensive positioning as idiosyncratic risk rises across sectors. : Despite modest improvements in interest coverage ratios, CLO portfolio revenue growth declined to 4.74% in Q1 U.S. from 6% in Q4 2024, and net leverage slightly increased in the first quarter of 2025. This divergence highlights the increasing importance of manager quality and defensive positioning as idiosyncratic risk rises across sectors. Surging insurance demand amid regulatory uncertainty : Insurers significantly increased CLO allocations by $14 billion in the past year, with CLOs now comprising over 6% of life insurers' balance sheets. This strong demand, particularly for AAA and AA-rated tranches, is driven by capital efficiency and low duration risk. However, proposed NAIC changes could reshape CLO tranche allocations, potentially pushing investors higher up the capital stack. Octus Strengthens CLO Coverage with Global Team Expansion and New CLO Rankings: Octus has significantly expanded its global CLO team with dedicated coverage and support for the market, further solidifying its commitment to providing unparalleled credit intelligence. "Consistent with the company's strategy to cover all segments of the global credit market, Octus' dedicated CLO coverage team is now global with eight editorial members based in London and New York. This further highlights the company's expertise in a very attractive segment of the credit market," said Adelene Lee, Executive Editor, Global Credit Initiatives. This expansion underpins the launch of the company's comprehensive CLO League Tables below. These rankings provide granular insights into manager performance across both the U.S. and European markets, including: Top Global CLO Managers (U.S. and Europe) : Blackstone ($58.88bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($52.32bn), Carlyle ($48.64bn), Golub ($42bn), BlackRock ($40.71bn) : Blackstone ($58.88bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($52.32bn), Carlyle ($48.64bn), Golub ($42bn), BlackRock ($40.71bn) Top CLO Arranging Banks (Global) : Bank of America ($38.41bn), Citi ($26.72bn), BNP Paribas ($25.1bn), JPMorgan ($24.13bn), Morgan Stanley ($21.78bn) : Bank of America ($38.41bn), Citi ($26.72bn), BNP Paribas ($25.1bn), JPMorgan ($24.13bn), Morgan Stanley ($21.78bn) Top U.S. BSL CLO Managers : Blackstone ($39.17bn), Carlyle ($36.55bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($31.59bn), UBS Asset Management ($30.33bn), CIFC Asset Management ($29.86bn) : Blackstone ($39.17bn), Carlyle ($36.55bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($31.59bn), UBS Asset Management ($30.33bn), CIFC Asset Management ($29.86bn) Top U.S. Private Credit CLO Managers : Golub ($29.16bn), Antares ($13.28bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($7.76bn), AllianceBernstein ($7.67bn), BlackRock ($7.51bn) : Golub ($29.16bn), Antares ($13.28bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] ($7.76bn), AllianceBernstein ($7.67bn), BlackRock ($7.51bn) Top European CLO Managers : CVC (13.46bn), Blackstone (11.6bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] (11bn), KKR (10.11bn), BlackRock (9.93bn) : CVC (13.46bn), Blackstone (11.6bn), Apollo [Redding Ridge] (11bn), KKR (10.11bn), BlackRock (9.93bn) Top U.S. BSL CLO Arranging Banks : Bank of America ($32.02bn), Citi ($18.99bn), JPMorgan ($14.93bn), Wells Fargo ($14.32bn), Morgan Stanley ($13.61bn) : Bank of America ($32.02bn), Citi ($18.99bn), JPMorgan ($14.93bn), Wells Fargo ($14.32bn), Morgan Stanley ($13.61bn) Top U.S. Private Credit CLO Arranging Banks : Wells Fargo ($5.97bn), BNP Paribas ($5.34bn), Societe Generale ($4.06bn), Deutsche Bank ($3.71bn), Natixis ($2.89bn) : Wells Fargo ($5.97bn), BNP Paribas ($5.34bn), Societe Generale ($4.06bn), Deutsche Bank ($3.71bn), Natixis ($2.89bn) Top European CLO Arranging Banks : Jefferies (7.67bn), BNP Paribas (7.15bn), JPMorgan (6.31bn), Bank of America (5.14bn), Morgan Stanley (4.94bn) Access the full CLO rankings report here. "The introduction of our CLO League Tables is a game-changer for the industry," added Darren Maharaj, Vice President of Data Strategy and Development. "By providing transparent, data-driven rankings, we are equipping investors with a powerful tool to assess manager quality and strategies, which is more critical than ever given the nuanced market conditions." Looking Forward to a Busy Q3 2025, Especially in the Insurance Sector: CLO managers anticipate a busy Q3, particularly in Europe, ahead of potential tariff reimplementation. Octus emphasizes that defensive credit selection, active portfolio management, and structural discipline will remain top priorities for navigating the evolving landscape. CLOs continue to be an essential component in insurance portfolios, offering attractive yield, capital efficiency, and structural protection. Octus will continue to deliver exclusive visibility into CLO fundamentals, track insurer allocation trends, and support clients through market analytics and portfolio health checks. To view the most recent example of Octus' ongoing, expert CLO coverage, access the company's latest report: Portfolio Analytics Wrap: Beyond Fundamentals What's Really Driving CLO Pricing. About Octus Founded in 2013, Octus, formerly Reorg, is the essential credit intelligence and data provider for the world's leading buy-side firms, investment banks, law firms, and advisory firms. By surrounding unparalleled human expertise with proven technology, data, and AI tools, Octus unlocks powerful truths that fuel decisive action across financial markets. Visit octus.com to learn how we deliver rigorously verified intelligence at speed and create a complete picture for professionals across the entire credit lifecycle. Follow Octus on LinkedIn and X. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723107461/en/ Contacts: Media Drake Manning drake.manning@octus.com Mike Deleo OctusPR@icrinc.com Flatiron Health's expanded partnerships fuel real-world data research to transform cancer care across Europe and Asia Flatiron Health, a leading healthtech company dedicated to improving cancer care and advancing research using real-world data (RWD), today announced that its international oncology research network has tripled in size across the UK, Germany, and Japan over the past year-a milestone that marks an unprecedented acceleration in global cancer research collaboration and impact. Flatiron Health entered international markets to address the growing unmet need for high-quality, real-world oncology data that is reflective and representative of patient populations, practice patterns, and care settings globally. In just five years, Flatiron established a global network of more than 30 leading academic medical centers, hospitals, universities, and community sites across Europe and Japan that contribute deidentified patient data to Flatiron's real-world database. Notable partners include Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, University Hospitals Of Leicester NHS Trust, and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in the UK; Klinikum Stuttgart in Germany; and the National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Cancer Center Hospital, Nagoya University Hospital, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Institute of Science Tokyo Hospital in Japan. Furthermore, Flatiron also supports a broader group of data users to maximize the generation of impactful evidence, such as its collaboration with University Hospital Essen in Germany, where Flatiron multinational RWD was used for research published in Nature Cancer and presented at ASCO GU. "The unprecedented expansion of our global network will continue to support improvements to local cancer patients' care and novel multinational research-fundamentally changing what's possible for our partners and the patients they serve," said Nathan Hubbard, Chief Business Officer at Flatiron Health. "Our partners are already unlocking answers to complex research questions-answers that traditional data sources can't support. By leveraging this expanded real-world evidence, which spans from understanding standards of care and treatment patterns to informing HTA and regulatory decisions, this momentum is improving cancer care for patients worldwide." Flatiron has authored seven research studies incorporating its multinational RWD within the past two years powered by Flatiron's Trusted Research Environment (TRE) (Powered by Lifebit CloudOS)-a secure platform that enables access to patient-level data at scale. In research published in ESMO Real World Data and Digital Oncology, Flatiron Health researchers, software engineers, and medical oncologists local to each geography came together to characterize oncology RWD in the UK, Germany, and Japan. The work demonstrated how Flatiron's TRE enables cross-country cohort analyses, while maintaining local data control and compliance. The methods and approach described in this paper enable global researchers with the tools to investigate treatment patterns and outcomes across diverse healthcare systems, fostering high-quality, multinational evidence generation. "Flatiron is committed to building research cohorts that are reflective and representative of the real-world oncology populations and local care standards," said Hideaki Bando, MD, Chief, Division of Drug and Diagnostic Development Promotion at National Cancer Center Hospital East. "Increased understanding of how different cancers impact different geographical areas is critical to generate robust evidence to inform targeted treatment strategies worldwide." While Flatiron's international oncology network marks significant progress in enabling robust research across these regions, many countries outside the UK, Germany, and Japan still lack access to locally-available oncology datasets that are representative, methodologically sound, and recent enough for research needs. To help address these remaining gaps, Flatiron established Flatiron FORUM (Fostering Oncology RWE Uses and Methods), a global consortium that brings together biopharma and academic partners to collaboratively advance a portfolio of research studies focused on the transportability of oncology data across borders. Through Flatiron FORUM, participants co-develop concrete use cases, apply new methodologies, and rigorously validate the transportability of outcomes between regions and diverse healthcare systems-including countries beyond the UK, Germany, and Japan. This collaborative approach addresses critical challenges in regulatory science and access, ultimately supporting better evidence generation and improved outcomes for patients worldwide. "Flatiron's real-world data is a powerful complement to the UK's cancer registries, adding new clinical depth and recency that help fill critical evidence gaps," said Prof. Geoff Hall, Professor of Cancer Medicine Digital Health and Consultant Oncologist at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK. "Through the combined strength of Flatiron's global oncology research network and Flatiron FORUM, we are unlocking richer insights for both local innovation and multinational research-ultimately supporting more informed clinical breakthroughs, regulatory decisions, and better outcomes for patients across the UK and worldwide." Flatiron is committed to expanding research access to increasingly representative oncology patient cohorts across the UK, Germany, and Japan, complementing its already extensive US cohorts. This expansion supports a growing set of use cases for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to answer critical questions about cancer care-driving the next era of global oncology research. For more information about Flatiron's global network and research initiatives, visit flatiron.com. About Flatiron Health Flatiron Health is a healthtech company expanding the possibilities for point of care solutions in oncology and using data for good to power smarter care for every person with cancer. Through machine learning and AI, real-world evidence, and breakthroughs in clinical trials, we continue to transform patients' real-life experiences into knowledge and create a more modern, connected oncology ecosystem. Flatiron Health is an independent affiliate of the Roche Group. Flatiron.com @FlatironHealth View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723622243/en/ Contacts: Flatiron Health Media Contact Nina Toor press@flatiron.com Fully Unmanned- CURECA, the 100% Automated Diagnostic System Defining the Future Gold Standard, Debuts in Chicago, July 28-31 Unifying global diagnostic data - STAgora, the big data platform set to transform the future of diagnostics Offering early access to the new diagnostic paradigm, pilot partnerships with selected institutions engaged by year-end SEOUL, South Korea , July 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Seegene Inc., a global leader in molecular diagnostics, announced today that it will unveil its fully automated PCR testing system, CURECA, and its data analytics platform, STAgora, at ADLM 2025 (Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine), the world's largest diagnostics conference, taking place in Chicago from July 28 to 31. With the introduction of these new technologies, Seegene declares a transformative shift in the global diagnostics paradigm. Automating every step of PCR Testing for enhanced efficiency and accuracy CURECA is the world's first system to fully automate the entire PCR testing process - from sample storage and pre-treatment to nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and result analysis - without any human intervention. Designed for 24/7 continuous operation, the system minimizes human error and dramatically improves the consistency and reliability of the test results. A key breakthrough lies in its fully automated prep module, which addresses one of the most burdensome and error-prone stages in laboratory workflows. Pre-treatment has traditionally been a major challenge, particularly when dealing with diverse sample types such as urine, blood, sputum, and stool. Lab technicians often carry out repetitive manual tasks over extended hours, and variations in skill level can result in inconsistent outcomes. Stool samples, especially, have posed serious automation barriers due to their high viscosity and particulates, requiring heavy manual handling. The prep module of CURECA system is the first to fully automate pre-treatment process across all major sample types - including stool - overcoming longstanding obstacles in laboratory operations. This innovation reduces labor demands, expands sample throughput, and enhances overall operational and cost efficiency. It also shifts the role of laboratory personnel from manual processing to higher-level responsibilities, such as data analysis and clinical interpretation - helping labs better leverage their workforce in high volume, 24/7 continuous testing environments to provide sustainable high quality testing results. In addition, the prep module of CURECA system is applicable beyond PCR diagnostics. It supports pre-treatment for other disciplines, including clinical chemistry and immunoassays, marking a significant step forward in automation across the broader diagnostics market. Its modular architecture allows for flexible configuration and deployment tailored to the size, layout, and needs of each laboratory. STAgora - Real-Time Global Data Integration & Analysis Empowering Personalized Care Also unveiled at ADLM 2025, STAgora is Seegene's statistical platform that collects and analyzes real-time PCR diagnostic data to support clinical decision-making. By aggregating test data uploaded from hospitals around the world, the platform provides integrated insights into regional infection trends, hospital-level positivity rates, and patterns of co-infection. It also offers more than 40 statistical tools tailored for clinical support. With STAgora, healthcare providers can compare individual patient test results with local and regional epidemiological data, enabling more precise, data-driven treatment strategies. The platform allows clinicians to evaluate infection trends at both patient and community levels, improving the accuracy and speed of diagnosis and care planning. By delivering rapid, reliable insights through this kind of comprehensive analysis, STAgora is expected to become an essential analytical tool for clinical decision-making. Expanding Global Collaboration via Technology Sharing and Strategic Partnerships Building on its presence at ADLM 2025, Seegene aims to broaden access to CURECA and STAgora by offering early pilot experiences and establishing new global partnerships. Earlier this year, CURECA attracted strong interest at ESCMID Global 2025, one of Europe's leading clinical microbiology and infectious disease congresses. To strengthen its R&D and manufacturing capacity in the United States, Seegene has established local subsidiaries, including Seegene Technologies and Seegene CURECA. "CURECA and STAgora are more than just diagnostics instrument or software-they represent a new global standard that will redefine diagnostics in clinical settings around the world. We will continue to share the many technological assets we've built over the years and based on this, we are committed to driving fundamental innovation across the global diagnostics ecosystem." Said Daniel Shin, Executive Vice President, Chief of Global Sales & Marketing at Seegene. Disclaimer The product is currently in a pre-commercialization phase. The configuration presented at ADLM 2025 is for demonstration purposes only and may differ in functionality, specifications, and components from the final commercial version. This material is intended solely to introduce the technology and does not constitute an advertisement for product sales. About Seegene Seegene has more than 20 years of dedicated experience in R&D, manufacturing, and business related to syndromic real-time PCR technologies. This expertise was particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when Seegene provided over 340 million COVID-19 tests to more than 100 countries worldwide. The core feature of Seegene's syndromic real-time PCR technology is the ability to simultaneously test for 14 pathogens that cause similar signs and symptoms in a single tube with quantitative information. Visit: Seegene.com and follow linkedin.com/company/seegene-inc Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2737402/Image__Seegene_unveils_the_world_s_first_unattended_PCR_automation__igniting_a_global_diagnostic_par.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1357790/Seegene_logo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/seegene-unveils-the-worlds-first-unattended-pcr-automation-igniting-a-global-diagnostic-paradigm-shift-at-adlm-2025-302513027.html Cloud-native platform now supports data residency requirements in the UK and Canada, enabling enhanced identity threat protection and compliance Organizations in the UK and Canada gain actionable visibility into identity-based threats across hybrid environments ATLANTA, July 23, 2025, the global leader in identity security protecting Paths to Privilege, today announced the local hosting availability of its Identity Security Insights solution in the United Kingdom and Canada. This strategic expansion meets growing global demand for advanced identity security and enables organizations in these regions to align with local data residency preferences while gaining enhanced protection from identity-based threats. This expansion ensures that UK and Canadian organizations can now benefit from Identity Security Insights' unique ability to provide a unified, cloud-native view of their entire identity landscape. The solution utilizes AI/ML to correlate accounts (human and service) into unified identities and helps uncover hidden paths to privilege and misconfigurations in customers' environments across identity providers and cloud platforms (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS). It also offers contextually rich, threat-aware, and prescriptive recommendations and detections, along with out-of-the-box reporting and visualizations, empowering organizations to proactively identify and address critical identity vulnerabilities. "Expanding local hosting of Identity Security Insights to the UK and Canada marks a critical step in our mission to help organizations worldwide strengthen their identity security posture," said Sam Elliott, SVP of Products at BeyondTrust. "The increasing complexity of cyber threats necessitates robust and adaptable identity security measures. By making Identity Security Insights hosting available in these key regions, we empower more organizations to proactively defend against sophisticated attacks, uncover hidden vulnerabilities, streamline compliance efforts, and ultimately protect their most critical assets with greater precision and confidence." "Our customers in Canada increasingly require cybersecurity solutions that respect local data residency laws without sacrificing advanced functionality," said Chris Kelly, Partner - Chief Operating Officer at Arancia, a BeyondTrust partner. "With Identity Security Insights now locally available, we can deliver enhanced protection and actionable intelligence that aligns with our clients' compliance needs. This is a win for both security operations teams and end users who rely on seamless, secure access." BeyondTrust Identity Security Insights has garnered industry recognition, including recognition as a Tech Innovator by CRN and contributing to a leadership position in the KuppingerCole Leadership Compass for Identity Threat Detection and Response. Its expanding customer base underscores the increasing global market need for comprehensive identity security. Organizations can learn more about BeyondTrust Identity Security Insights and access a complimentary assessment here. About BeyondTrust BeyondTrust is the global identity security leader protecting Paths to Privilege. Our identity-centric approach goes beyond securing privileges and access, empowering organizations with the most effective solution to manage the entire identity attack surface and neutralize threats, whether from external attacks or insiders. BeyondTrust is leading the charge in transforming identity security to prevent breaches and limit the blast radius of attacks, while creating a superior customer experience and operational efficiencies. We are trusted by 20,000 customers, including 75 of the Fortune 100, and our global ecosystem of partners. Learn more at www.beyondtrust.com. Follow BeyondTrust: X: https://twitter.com/beyondtrust Blog: https://www.beyondtrust.com/blog LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beyondtrust Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beyondtrust For BeyondTrust: Mike Bradshaw Connect Marketing for BeyondTrust P: Pacvue's strategic partnership is the first of its kind with a top 3 European grocery retailer LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pacvue today announced a strategic partnership with Unlimitail, the retail media network serving over 35 leading retailers across Europe and Latin America. This collaboration will expand Pacvue clients' self-service capabilities by enabling brands and agencies to activate campaigns across Unlimitail's network via Pacvue's commerce operating system. It also unlocks incremental demand by opening access to global and regional budgets through Pacvue's platform. The partnership will begin with Carrefour, the number one grocery player in Europe, with campaigns launchable starting this summer in France. This integration reflects the increasing maturity of Europe's retail media landscape and aligns with the best practices established in the most advanced markets. It also showcases Unlimitail's and Pacvue's continued investments in creating a more unified, standardized, and accessible ecosystem through streamlined platforms and partner integrations. Through this integration, Pacvue now offers streamlined access to Carrefour France's onsite media inventory, allowing brands and agencies to seamlessly plan, launch, and optimize retail media campaigns with greater precision, efficiency, and control. The partnership will progressively expand to other countries and other retailers in Europe. Strategic Impact for brands and agencies This partnership, enabled by Unlimitail's exclusive retail media offering and ad tech infrastructure, positions Pacvue clients to capitalize on the growth of the European retail media market with more personalized campaigns, real-time optimization, and access to one of the region's most influential grocery retail media channels. This partnership will bring key benefits to brands: Access to exclusive retail media inventory: Activate campaigns across Unlimitail onsite media inventories, starting with Carrefour in France. Reach shoppers in high-impact placements throughout the whole purchase journey. Activate campaigns across Unlimitail onsite media inventories, starting with Carrefour in France. Reach shoppers in high-impact placements throughout the whole purchase journey. Performance measurement powered by transactional data: Use Pacvue's platform to monitor and optimize campaigns in real time, with performance insights enriched by retailer's transactional data. Use Pacvue's platform to monitor and optimize campaigns in real time, with performance insights enriched by retailer's transactional data. Streamlined access to a top-tier retail media networks: Leverage Pacvue's platform to easily activate and manage campaigns across one of Europe's most influential retail media networks and advanced retailers, with centralized visibility and control. This global connectivity for brands and agencies will bring Europe closer to the most mature markets in retail media. "At Unlimitail, our mission is to make omnichannel retail media simpler, smarter, and more impactful for brands. Partnering with Pacvue, the worldwide leading Commerce platform, does exactly that, by allowing us to expand the accessibility of our retailer's inventories to more global agencies and advertisers. This global connectivity, powered by Pacvue tools, is a significant step in steering the European markets towards the most mature countries in retail media. More than ever, we are committed to lead the way in helping brands put retail media at the core of their Marketing & Commerce strategies," declares Thibault Hennion, COO of Unlimitail. Victor De La Fuente, the Head of Global eCommerce at Nestle, shared, "We're thrilled about the opportunities this partnership between Unlimitail and Pacvue brings. Accessing and managing Carrefour's data through the Pacvue solution marks a significant advancement in our retail digital media initiatives across Europe, enhancing operational efficiency and driving performance." Unlocking Carrefour's Retail Media Ecosystem This partnership will start by providing access to Carrefour inventories in France. Carrefour.fr welcomes close to 17 million unique monthly visitors, with nearly 2 million new visitors added in the past year (source: Mediametrie net ratings, February 2025). In France, 1 in 4 people now visit the retailer regularly, with 97% of shoppers still shopping through the website at least 2 years after their first purchase (source: Kantar). With such a loyal and high-traffic environment, Unlimitail and Carrefour offer a strong foundation for performance. According to Unlimitail's latest benchmark study, Retail Media Decoded, Sponsored Product campaigns in Europe on grocery reach an average click-through rate around 1,0%, with 1-1 ROAS above 3x and Halo ROAS around 6x, demonstrating the power of well-executed activations and their impact not only on products, but brands as a whole. Pacvue's Investment in European Expansion This announcement comes as Pacvue deepens its investment in Europe with the appointment of Mark James as VP, Head of EMEA. With over 15 years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, James will support the company's continued growth and localized value for brands across the region. The partnership with Unlimitail underscores Pacvue's commitment to expanding its European footprint. Backed by Mark James' 15+ years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities and foster them for clients in the EMEA region. Pacvue CRO Ross McNab commented: "Mark is the ideal leader to drive Pacvue's growth across the EMEA region. He has deep expertise in retail media and a proven track record. Coupled with our partnership with Unlimitail, this is a big leap forward in our mission to give brands a competitive advantage through cutting-edge retail media capabilities." Romain Schneider, eRetail Media Director at WPP, underscored what this move signals for the brands and advertisers: "We're always looking for innovative, scalable ways to drive meaningful outcomes for our clients at WPP. The partnership between Pacvue and Carrefour represents a significant advancement for retail media in Europe. Access to Carrefour's high-traffic, data-rich ecosystem via Pacvue's platform gives our brands unprecedented precision, speed, and control in campaign execution." About Unlimitail, The Retail Media Powerhouse Unlimitail is a global retail media platform enabling brands and retailers to deploy simplified, unified, and optimized retail media strategies. Through deep consumer insights, omnichannel campaign activation, and end-to-end measurement, Unlimitail helps drive visibility and generate sales. The company stands out for its advanced advertising technologies through Epsilon Retail Media, offering unified onsite and offsite solutions, as well as its global reach and premium data assets. Unlimitail aggregates over 2 billion monthly page views and connects more than 220 million addressable customers worldwide through 35 retail partners. For more information, visit www.unlimitail.com Unlimitail Communications Department: communication@unlimitail.com About Pacvue Pacvue is the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement. The company's first-to-market platform drives incrementality, profitability and market share for brands, while turning insights into actionable recommendations. Backed by a global team of experts, Pacvue works with over 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers worldwide including Amazon, Walmart, Target and Instacart. With the incorporation of Pacvue's enterprise solution with Helium 10 for SMBs, Pacvue is now the most comprehensive commerce and retail media platform available in the market. Founded in 2018, their global presence includes locations in Chicago, Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Shanghai and Tokyo. Media Contact: pacvue@samsonpr.com Customers in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland Can Now Purchase the Daisy Petal Perfusion Bioreactor System Sunflower Therapeutics (Sunflower), a public benefit corporation transforming global access to protein manufacturing capacity for diverse applications, announced today that it has engaged Alflow Scandinavia A/S as its exclusive distributor for the Daisy Petal Perfusion Bioreactor System in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. This marks Sunflower's first commercial partnership in Europe, representing a key step in its international growth strategy. "Expanding into Europe with a trusted and innovative partner like Alflow allows us to support a broader community of scientists and biomanufacturers," said Dr. Kerry Love, CEO and co-founder of Sunflower Therapeutics. "Alflow's team brings a deep technical knowledge that aligns with our ongoing product commercialization goals and our objective of making protein manufacturing more intuitive, cost-effective, and efficient. We're excited to work with their team to bring our technology overseas to new markets." Sunflower's innovative Daisy Petal is a breakthrough technology designed for high-efficiency protein production using an intuitive, single-use assembly. The system features a disposable stirred tank reactor with an integrated in-vessel cell retention device that enables continuous biomass feeding, fluid harvesting, and perfusion, which results in significantly higher space-time yields compared to traditional fed-batch fermentation. "Partnering with Sunflower Therapeutics allows us to bring a truly novel bioreactor solution to the Nordic market," said Jacob Rosenkrands, CEO of Alflow Scandinavia A/S. "We are committed to offering our customers solutions that make a measurable difference. The Daisy Petal system stands out by combining simplicity, scalability, and performance and we look forward to supporting our customers in bringing it into practice." Sunflower's bioprocessing software suite, compliant with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for use in regulated biomanufacturing, includes HelianthOS, Nursery, and Harvest. These tools enable walkaway automation of fermentation processes, easy development of process recipes with no coding, and the secure storage of process data generated by the Daisy Petal System. Together, these three elements provide a cohesive ecosystem that enables efficient and intuitive operations throughout an entire campaign. To learn more about the Daisy Petal, contact Alflow Scandinavia A/S at https://www.alflow.dk/. About Sunflower Therapeutics Sunflower Therapeutics is a unique biotech with a mission to transform bioeconomies worldwide by creating accessible solutions for protein product development and commercial manufacturing. Using our core technologies an efficient host, data-driven methods and Contract Research Organization (CRO) services for process development, and continuous biomanufacturing equipment our team aims to democratize bioprocessing. About Alflow Scandinavia A/S Alflow Scandinavia A/S is a Danish team of flow technology experts that delivers high-quality components, technical advice, and works in close collaboration with customers in the pharma, food, and single-use industries. With more than 25 years of experience, the company turns expertise into reliable solutions that create value, ensure safety and deliver flow that makes a difference. Visit: www.alflow.dk. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723029561/en/ Contacts: Media: Greenough Communications Tiffany Keenan VP of Healthcare and Life Sciences sunflowertx@greenoughagency.com Global Actuarial Leader to Strengthen Risk Insight, Capital Strategy, and Predictive Capabilities Across the Enterprise WESTFIELD CENTER, Ohio, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Westfield, a U.S.-based property and casualty insurance company, has announced the appointment of Dan Thomas as Senior Vice President, Chief Actuary. In this executive leadership role, Thomas will oversee the enterprise-wide actuarial function, leading strategic initiatives that enhance pricing governance, reserving, capital modeling, and advanced predictive analytics to drive business performance and long-term financial strength. Based in Westfield's New York City office, Thomas will provide thought leadership and technical expertise to support underwriting, finance, strategy, and risk management across Westfield's global portfolio of personal, commercial, surety, and specialty lines. He will also serve on key enterprise governance committees and lead efforts to modernize actuarial capabilities in support of profitable growth, innovation, and operational excellence. Thomas joins Westfield from Tokio Marine Holdings, where he was the Chief International Actuary, leading a global team of over 500 reserving, pricing, financial reporting, and capital modeling actuaries across the enterprise. A fully credentialed property/casualty actuary, Thomas brings deep expertise in financial reporting and regulatory frameworks, and has regularly advised boards, CEOs, and global executive committees. Prior to Tokio Marine, Thomas led the U.S. Property & Casualty Actuarial Services practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he introduced innovative service models to meet evolving industry demands. He is a respected thought leader in actuarial science, risk analytics, and industry benchmarking, making Thomas a frequent speaker at notable insurance conferences, educational seminars, and advising senior stakeholders across the globe. "Dan brings a rare combination of technical depth, global leadership experience, and strategic acumen to this role," said Joe Kohmann, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer at Westfield. "His ability to translate complex actuarial insights into clear, actionable strategies will enhance our enterprise decision-making, support our business partners, and strengthen our ability to navigate a dynamic risk landscape." "Westfield is a well-positioned, performance-driven company with clear strategic ambitions, and I'm excited to contribute to its continued success," said Thomas. "The actuarial function plays a critical role in shaping the strategic and financial future of the company. I look forward to partnering across the enterprise to deliver insights that elevate decision-making, deepen our risk understanding, and support long-term, profitable growth." Thomas' appointment reflects Westfield's continued investment in data-driven insights, financial strength, and modern actuarial leadership as the company positions itself to sustain success in a rapidly evolving insurance environment. About Westfield Founded in 1848, Westfield is a global leader in property and casualty insurance, delivering superior risk insights and innovative solutions to customers through a portfolio of insurance products. Westfield underwrites commercial, personal, surety and specialty lines of coverage through a network of leading independent agents and brokers in the United States and specialty products through Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1200. As a mutual insurance company with nearly 3,000 employees, Westfield has revenues in excess of $4 billion and more than $11 billion in assets. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736140/Westfield_Insurance_Dan_Thomas.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/751030/Westfield_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/westfield-appoints-dan-thomas-as-senior-vice-president-chief-actuary-302511989.html TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Forward Water Technologies Corp. ("FWTC" or the "Company") (TSXV:FWTC) is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a contract dated June 26th, 2025 for a technology evaluation project with a Fortune 500 Europe company having global operations. The project will assess of the effectiveness of FWTC's iFO water treatment technology for treating wastewater from product manufacturing. The client is dedicated to the continuous improvement of the sustainability profiles of all their global operations. As part of that initiative, they have been striving to maximize the efficiency of their water use and reuse systems. Enlisting FWTC as a potential technology supplier, the client and FWTC will collaborate to demonstrate how FWTC's iFO treatment process can aid in furthering the best possible water re-use capabilities. FWTC will intake source-water from the client's current operations at its engineering facility in Sarnia ON and treat that water for maximum recovery. C. Howie Honeyman, CEO of FWTC says, "our expectation is we will recover over 90% of the process water as clean water suitable for re-use. Importantly, due the nature of the in-coming process water which is not suited to other membrane treatments such as reverse osmosis, this effort will illustrate the positive impact FWTC's iFO system can have on large scale industrial processes." About Forward Water Technologies Corp. Forward Water Technologies Corp. is a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to saving the earth's water supply using its patented Forward Osmosis technology. The Company was founded by GreenCentre Canada, a leading technology innovation centre supported by the government of Canada. The Company's technology allows for the reduction of challenging waste streams simultaneously returning fresh water for re-use or surface release. The Company's mandate is to focus on the large-scale implementation of its technology in multiple sectors, including industrial wastewater, oil and gas, mining, agriculture and ultimately municipal water supply and re-use market sectors. In addition, the Company has initiated early-stage R&D for the treatment of food and beverage process streams. For more information, please visit www.forwardwater.com. For more information or interview requests, please contact: C. Howie Honeyman - Chief Executive Officer howie.honeyman@forwardwater.com 1-519-333-5888 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. Caution Concerning Forward Looking Information This press 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 press 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. FWTC cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of FWTC, including those described in FWTC's disclosure documents available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader is 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 FWTC. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and FWTC does not undertake to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by securities law. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. SOURCE: Forward Water Technologies Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/forward-water-technologies-corp.-announces-preliminary-technology-evaluation-contract-1051893 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / At the Social Labor & Convergence Program's (SLCP) recent Stakeholder Meeting in New York, Joleen Ong, Cascale's senior director of brand and retailer membership, joined a panel of industry experts to share insights on key issues impacting the apparel industry. The "Data Insights and Industry Perspectives" panel was moderated by Anna Burger, SLCP board member, and included Robert Reid, senior manager, corporate social responsibility at Randa Accessories, and Ana Chiu, senior director at PVH Corp. Ong highlighted the collaboration between Cascale and SLCP and its pivotal role in laying the foundation for an even more targeted, deeper, and impact-driven approach to improving social performance in global supply chains. Delving deeper into Cascale's collaborative work with SLCP, Ong highlighted the Higg Facility Social & Labor Module (Higg FSLM), which is built on SLCP's Converged Assessment Framework (CAF), underpinning Cascale's Support Decent Work for All strategic pillar and reflecting its commitment to champion workers' rights, ensure fair purchasing practices, and streamline audits to foster safe and equitable workplaces. Ong shared insights from the recent update to the Higg FSLM and CAF v1.7, noting that the update enhances risk assessment and regulatory alignment to deliver greater transparency through credible, actionable social and labor compliance data, driving decent working conditions across global supply chains. She noted that the CAF, which is available in 60 countries, forms the backbone of the Higg FSLM, making it Cascale's preferred tool for streamlining assessments, reducing audit duplication, and obtaining credible and actionable data. Highlighting the benefits of convergence, Ong referenced Cascale's Better Buying Purchasing Practices Index (BBPPI) survey, which features a "Win-Win Sustainable Partnership" section that gathers manufacturers' insights on how convergence supports outcomes such as a living wage and health and safety investments. Now, with Better Buying under Cascale, we can link purchasing practice feedback directly to SLCP data patterns. For example, the BBPPI found that: 60% of suppliers reported monetary savings from CAF adoption 24% used those savings to increase wages - a direct indication that reduced audit fatigue is helping to unlock resources for remediation and improvement. She observed the growing momentum toward convergence: the average SLCP assessment is now shared 2.96 times - a 16% increase from last year-signaling a shift from proprietary tools toward shared trust in the Converged Assessment Framework (CAF). Tools like the Higg FSLM enable multi-brand recognition of a single verified assessment, reducing duplication, building facility ownership of data, and fostering collaboration. At the same time, social compliance professionals must assess factory risk before production begins-but existing data from converged assessments can often provide these insights without requiring additional questionnaires. Key factors include the number of migrant or contract workers, gender ratios, factory location, and the presence of other buyers - all evaluated against internal codes of conduct and issue criticality. Common "showstopper" risks include fire safety and forced labor issues. Pre-audit questions can help flag concerns, such as: Do factories in China built before 1998 have automatic fire sprinklers installed, in line with the updated fire code introduced that year? In countries where migrant labor is common such as Taiwan, Malaysia or Japan, have migrant workers paid recruitment fees? In Southern India, are wages paid regularly rather than in lump sums, given known risks of Sumangali schemes? Converged assessments make this type of pre-screening possible, helping teams prioritize due diligence and focus more time on meaningful remediation-especially when paired with the FSLM's risk-based prioritization logic. Ong concluded by sharing how human rights due diligence enhances long-term business resilience by fostering stable and reliable supplier relationships. She advocated for a collective, risk-based approach across industry initiatives to reduce audit fatigue and enable more meaningful resource allocation, thereby achieving lasting improvements. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cascale on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cascale Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cascale Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Cascale View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/cascale-highlights-collaboration-and-risk-based-due-diligence-at-1051897 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / BCM One, a leading provider of NextGen Communications and Managed Services for IT leaders and resellers, today announced a strategic partnership with Solgari to enhance its Microsoft Teams voice offering with a fully integrated, AI-powered contact center solution. Solgari will be added to BCM One's Pure IP Enterprise Voice portfolio, expanding its capabilities for global Microsoft Teams deployments. Solgari extends Microsoft Teams with omnichannel capabilities including voice, messaging, intelligent routing, and AI assistance, delivered natively within the Microsoft ecosystem. The solution deploys in hours, eliminating the need for custom integrations, while enabling businesses to scale customer engagement across teams, channels, and locations. This partnership gives BCM One customers a streamlined path to modernize contact center operations using the tools they already rely on. With faster time to value and built-in AI functionality, businesses can improve service quality, reduce overhead, and deliver consistent, high-touch experiences at scale. "Partnering with Solgari aligns seamlessly with BCM One's commitment to delivering impactful technology solutions," stated Michael Nowak, General Manager for BCM One Enterprise Solutions. "By joining forces, we aim to empower businesses to optimize their customer interactions within the Microsoft ecosystem while driving operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences. This represents a significant leap forward in revolutionizing customer interactions within the Microsoft Teams environment." "This valued partnership with BCM One enables us to bring our AI-powered, Microsoft-native contact center solution to even more businesses across North America," said John Colgan, CEO of Solgari. "Together, we're enabling organizations to transform how they connect with customers-seamlessly, intelligently, and entirely within the Microsoft tools that are already a fundamental part of their daily workflows." ### ABOUT BCM ONE Founded in 1992, BCM One is a leading global provider of NextGen Communications and Managed Services that IT leaders and resellers rely on to simplify the delivery of cloud-based voice and managed connectivity to power the critical network infrastructures of businesses globally. Serving over 20,000 customers worldwide and 5,000+ channel partners and resellers, BCM One offers telecom solutions to small to enterprise level business via the following solutions: Enterprise Voice for MS Teams, Cisco Webex and Zoom; UCaaS; Global Managed Connectivity; SIP Trunking; Managed SD-WAN; Security; and Technology Expense Optimization. BCM One prides itself on its long-standing client relationships backed by their mission statement, "To Provide a World-Class Experience with Every Human Interaction." To learn more about BCM One, visit www.bcmone.com. For Media Inquiries: Paula Como Kauth, Chief Marketing Officer, BCM One Office: 212.906.7255 | pckauth@bcmone.com SOURCE: BCM One View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/telecommunications/bcm-one-and-solgari-partner-to-deliver-ai-driven-customer-engagement-in-microsof-1051461 DELRAY BEACH, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Nuclear Medicine Software Market, valued at US$887.5 million in 2024 stood at US$970.0 million in 2025 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 9.0% from 2025 to 2030, culminating in a forecasted valuation of US$1,491.5 million by the end of the period. This growth is mainly driven by the increasing demand for early and accurate diagnostics, as precision imaging is essential for treatment planning. The growing focus on personalized medicine is accelerating adoption, as the software assists in creating customized treatments using detailed imaging and patient data. Additionally, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions is generating a strong need for early and accurate diagnostics. The integration of automated dosimetry tools is further enhancing safety and treatment precision, streamlining complex radiation planning processes. Regulatory bodies are responding with a proactive and evolving approach, issuing standardized yet stricter oversight frameworks that emphasize transparency, real-world validation, and patient safety. This supportive environment is helping mitigate the risks associated with the deployment of nuclear medicine software and encouraging broader adoption across global healthcare systems. The nuclear medicine software market is recording numerous innovations in imaging, AI integration, and the growing demand for personalized care. Modern software tools support a range of functions, including image reconstruction, data analysis, dosimetry, and workflow coordination. These solutions are increasingly designed with enhanced flexibility, improved interoperability, and enabled remote access. Enhanced PACS platforms, mobile accessibility, and automated documentation are also contributing to more efficient and reliable care delivery. Altogether, these advancements create new opportunities for innovation and growth across the field. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=212176442 Browse in-depth TOC on "Nuclear Medicine Software Market" 400 - Tables 120 - Figures 350 - Pages By application, the nuclear medicine software market has been segmented into diagnostic, therapeutics, emergency & stat workflows, and clinical research. Among these, the diagnostics segment commanded the largest market share, which can be attributed to the widespread use of PET and SPECT imaging across various therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiology, and neurology. Diagnostic imaging serves as the foundational base for nuclear medicine. Growing patient awareness and the increasing demand for early disease detection drive segment growth over the forecast period. Radiology departments are integrating software solutions for image acquisition, reconstruction, quantification, and automated interpretation while making significant investments in PACS integration and AI/ML integrated diagnostic platforms. Furthermore, the surge in cancer screening programs in developed markets and the clinical need for multi-modality image fusion are boosting the growth of diagnostic applications. Lastly, patient-centric reimbursement frameworks across North America and European countries for diagnostic imaging has further contributed to the segment's growth. By end-user, the nuclear medicine software market has been segmented by end users into healthcare providers, pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies, medtech companies, and other end users. Among these, the pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies segment accounted for the largest market share due to the expansion of theranostics and radiopharmaceutical R&D. These companies use nuclear medicine software solutions for clinical trial imaging, personalized dosimetry, and treatment response analytics. Globally, the targeted radiotherapeutics pipeline is expanding and requires advanced software solutions for regulatory-compliant image analysis, data management, and multi-center trial data harmonization. As nuclear medicine becomes integral to precision oncology drug development, software adoption among pharmaceutical and biotech companies is expected to accelerate significantly. By geography, the nuclear medicine software market has been segmented by region into North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Among these, North America is dominant due to the availability of advanced healthcare infrastructure, significant adoption of imaging technologies, and strong regulatory and reimbursement frameworks. Furthermore, the US and Canada have a large installed base of PET and SPECT systems and are readily adopting AI-integrated imaging platforms, cloud-based PACS, and dosimetry planning software. The expanding use of theranostics in cancer treatment-especially for prostate and neuroendocrine tumors-and strong collaborations between hospitals, academic centers, and pharmaceutical companies further fuel the demand for software in both diagnostics and therapeutics. In addition, North America hosts a substantial number of clinical trials for radiopharmaceuticals, which positively impacts the region's growth. Lastly, the presence of leading market players such as GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, and Philips is boosting the market growth. Request Sample Pages : https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=212176442 The report profiles key players such as GE HealthCare (MIM Software Inc.) (US), Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Lantheus Holdings, Inc. (EXINI Diagnostics AB) (US), Brainlab AG(Germany), Mirada Medical(UK), DOSIsoft SA(France), Hermes Medical Solutions (Sweden), INVIA, LLC (US), and Canon Medical Systems Corporation (Japan). The growth of the nuclear medicine software market is due to the increasing adoption of advanced analytics, dosimetry solutions, cloud-native platforms, and mobile and remote access solutions. The shift toward more personalized and efficient care models has further propelled the use of software that enhances clinical workflows, supports treatment planning, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards, particularly in the emerging field of theranostics. Ongoing technological advancements, including AI and mobile-enabled platforms, are enhancing data analysis, imaging precision, and remote access capabilities. As healthcare systems continue to evolve globally, there is a rising demand for flexible and dependable software that can integrate smoothly into medical infrastructure and support expanding diagnostic, therapeutic, and clinical research demands. The nuclear medicine software market is influenced by two key strategies: the integration of AI and advanced analytics to enhance existing solutions, and strategic partnerships that expand access to advanced diagnostic solutions and streamline clinical workflows. Additionally, under technological innovations, theranostics-a combination of therapy and diagnostics using targeted radiopharmaceuticals-is significantly transforming the nuclear medicine software landscape. Theranostics is driving progress in imaging, treatment planning, personalized dosimetry, and workflow orchestration. Businesses are rapidly integrating AI/ML capabilities into nuclear medicine solutions to improve diagnostic precision and workflow efficiency. For instance, GE HealthCare's 2024 launch of the Voluson Expert Series models 22, 20, and 18 showcases the expanding industry focus on AI-driven automation in nuclear medicine and other medical imaging fields. AI features reduce manual labor, evaluate complicated imaging data, and identify anomalies early, especially in complex specialties such as oncology. Similarly, the market is witnessing a surge in collaborations and partnerships. For example, the seven-year Care Alliance between GE HealthCare and Sutter Health, which was launched in 2024, aims to expand access to advanced imaging technologies throughout California. This initiative focuses on providing complete patient care and improving nuclear medicine infrastructure by using AI-integrated diagnostic tools across PET/CT, SPECT/CT, MRI, CT, and X-ray systems For more information, Inquire Now! Related Reports: Nuclear Medicine Market Infectious Disease Diagnostics Market Healthcare IT Market Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Market IoT Medical Devices Market Get access to the latest updates on Nuclear Medicine Software Companies and Nuclear Medicine Software Market Size About MarketsandMarkets: MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. 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Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nuclear-medicine-software-market-worth-1-491-55-million-by-2030-with-9-0-cagr--marketsandmarkets-302511835.html New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - DesignRush, a leading B2B marketplace that connects brands with top agencies, is now accepting submissions for its August 2025 Design Awards. From now through August 22, agencies and creatives from around the world are invited to submit their best work for a chance to gain industry recognition, build social proof, and strengthen credibility - all crucial for winning future clients and projects. Submissions are now open - from July 23 through August 22 - across six major categories: Website Design Logo Design Print Design App Design Packaging Design Video Design Each submission is carefully reviewed by DesignRush's esteemed international jury of design experts, using a transparent evaluation framework built around six core metrics: impact, creativity, functionality, execution, branding, and user experience. Over a dedicated one-week judging period, each juror scores entries on a 1 to 10 scale, with the average score determining the winners. Award-winning projects and agencies are showcased on DesignRush's website, newsletter, and social media channels, putting them in front of thousands of industry decision-makers and potential business partners. To see the level of work that earns acclaim, you can check out our latest roster of Design Award winners featuring standout projects across all categories. Join these award-winning agencies and get the recognition you deserve. Here's what past winners have to say: "The Award brought around 200 users to our site within a month and got us a project worth USD 25k." - Jean Massad, Lift Agency Design Lead and Founder "The process of applying for the Award was quick and easy without any hassle and the Awards Manager was fantastic throughout." - Charlotte Burrows, Slice Design Senior Account Manager "Being featured in the Awards has grown our online traffic considerably and given us further credentials when talking to our clients." - Terry Cole, Graphic Brands Creative Director Right now, designers, studios, and creative teams looking to showcase their best work can submit their designs for consideration in any of the six categories. About DesignRush DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace and media platform connecting businesses with agencies through expert reviews and agency ranking lists, awards, knowledge resources, and personalized agency recommendations for vetted projects. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259776 SOURCE: DesignRush Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Golden Sky Minerals Corp. (TSXV: AUEN) ("Golden Sky" or "The Company") is pleased to announce the results of its 735 line-kilometre helicopter-borne ZTEM (Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetic) and aeromagnetic geophysical survey over the Gnome and Semlin Targets on the Rayfield Property. This survey represents Phase 1 of the Company's 2025 exploration program and was designed to refine geological understanding and guide targeting for Phase 2, which will focus on follow-up exploration on these two targets. The program successfully delineated a large, high-resistivity geophysical anomaly interpreted to represent an intrusive batholith that extends from the Semlin target to the Gnome target, providing strong geological continuity across the broader project area. This intrusive body is interpreted to play a key role in the metal fertility and hydrothermal alteration setting occurring throughout the region, and further supports the potential for a district-scale porphyry system. At the Gnome target zone, exploration has outlined a broad multi-element soil anomaly (Cu-Au-Zn-As-Mo) measuring approximately 1.8 km by 1.5 km, open to the southeast, highlighting strong potential for additional mineralized extensions. This geochemical footprint is indicative of a robust hydrothermal system and supports the presence of a buried porphyry target at depth, a target that has been further corroborated by results from the 2025 ZTEM geophysical survey. The Gnome area was historically explored as a molybdenum prospect, but has undergone only limited modern drilling, leaving much of the target underexplored (see Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4). Surface sampling has outlined polymetallic mineralization hosted in chalcedonic quartz-carbonate veins containing disseminated pyrite and chalcopyrite. One such vein returned notable grades of 0.35% Cu, 8.9 g/t Ag, and 4.8 g/t Au (historical sample), demonstrating the high-grade potential of near-surface mineralization. Widespread phyllic and propylitic alteration occurs across the target area. Of particular significance is the close spatial relationship between surface mineralization and a prominent, eastward-dipping resistive geophysical anomaly identified through 3D inversion of resistivity data (Figure 2). This large, high-resistivity feature extends at depth beneath the Gnome target and exhibits geometry and scale consistent with preserved porphyry systems, where resistivity highs commonly reflect zones of intense silicification and quartz veining. The fact that mineralization and phyllic-propylitic alteration occur along the margins of this anomaly further supports the interpretation that the resistive zone may represent the core or apical region of a buried porphyry system, potentially preserved due to limited erosion. This strong geophysical signature not only enhances the geological model for the Gnome target but also provides a reliable vectoring tool for guiding deeper drilling and identifying additional mineralized zones along strike and at depth. Further support for a porphyry model is provided by the results of drill hole 72455, which intersected 0.1% Cu over the final 68 metres, suggesting the hole may have intersected the outer margin of a porphyry core (Figure 2). In addition, the target zone is marked by several magnetic, gravity, and radiometric anomalies, all exhibiting characteristics consistent with alkalic copper-gold porphyry systems within the Quesnel terrane. The Semlin target zone lies along the interpreted edge of a large, high-resistivity batholith (2025 ZTEM geophysical survey) - a geologic setting often associated with porphyry-style mineralization. This newly uncovered area was first exposed by road construction and is marked by a strong multi-element soil anomaly (Cu-Au-Zn-As-Mo) extending roughly 1.4 km by 0.9 km. Due to extensive overburden, historical exploration in the area has been minimal. However, initial rock sampling in 2022 returned encouraging results, including mineralized Nicola Group basalt containing up to 10% pyrite and trace chalcopyrite occurring along fractures and within quartz-carbonate veins. One sample of sulphide-rich vein material assayed 55 ppb gold, 0.2% copper, and 135 ppm molybdenum. Geological mapping confirmed the presence of an intrusion of monzonitic to dioritic composition, in contact with the surrounding basalt, located near the southwestern edge of the soil anomaly. This intrusion is situated within a high-resistivity geophysical anomaly (Figures 1 and 3) and contains disseminated pyrite within the intrusion and associated quartz veins along the dike margins. These findings reinforce the potential for a significant mineralized system along the batholith contact at Semlin. Follow-up exploration is being planned to further evaluate this promising target. The convergence of strong geochemical, geological, and geophysical indicators renders the Gnome and Semlin targets as having high-priority for follow-up exploration. Further groundwork is planned, including extending the soil sampling grids and performing ground-based induced-polarization (IP) and magnetic surveys. These are to be followed by a diamond drill program (permit-pending). The ~52,000-hectare Rayfield property is located in the Quesnel terrane, British Columbia's primary copper-producing belt, which hosts Teck Resources' Highland Valley Mine, Imperial Metals' Mount Polley Mine, Centerra Gold's Mount Milligan Mine, and Kodiak Copper's MPD Project. The road-accessible Rayfield copper-gold property is located approximately 20 kilometers east of the town of 70 Mile House, British Columbia, and is accessible year-round by well-maintained service and logging roads extending from BC Highway 97. John Newell, President and CEO of Golden Sky Minerals, states: "Our recent ZTEM survey results significantly strengthen the case for a large, district-scale copper-gold porphyry system at the Gnome and Semlin targets. We now have robust, multi-layered evidence, geophysical, geochemical, and geological, pointing to a buried porphyry center at the Gnome target. Additionally, Semlin is emerging as a second, highly prospective and underexplored porphyry target. This is the most compelling indication yet of the presence of a substantial porphyry system at these targets, and we are eager to move into the next phase of exploration to unlock its full potential." Figure 1: Extent of ZTEM geophysical survey with a 2D inversion of resistivity data at 200m depth (purple outlines high resistivity). A large batholith is defined by high resistivity that extends from the Semlin to the Gnome zones. A large NE-trending fault is interpreted to separate the two main intrusive bodies. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11793/259777_c3593ea5545128ac_004full.jpg Figure 2: A cross section of the 3D inverted resistivity over the Gnome and Semlin zones. Both zones exhibit lower resistivity (i.e., higher conductivity) adjacent to more resistive bodies, which are interpreted as causative intrusions responsible for the alteration and mineralization intersected in historic drilling (Gnome) and rock/soil samples (Semlin). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11793/259777_c3593ea5545128ac_005full.jpg Figure 3: Simplified geological interpretation from the ZTEM geophysical survey. Zones with high resistivity are interpreted to be intrusions. Much of the property is interpreted to be covered by younger Eocene age Kamloops Group stratigraphy (conductive), with "windows" exposing the underlying Triassic Nicola Group stratigraphy. There is a close association between elevated resistivity and Cu-in-soils values. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11793/259777_c3593ea5545128ac_006full.jpg Figure 4: Gnome target zone showing 2D inverted resistivity geophysical survey and historic drilling. Intense faulting is observed in many historic drillholes, with an overlying silica breccia with elevated values in Cu, Zn, Au, As, Mo, Ag. Diorite dikes occur at depth with elevated porphyry-style mineralization. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11793/259777_c3593ea5545128ac_007full.jpg About Golden Sky Minerals Corp. Golden Sky Minerals Corp. is a well-funded junior grassroots explorer engaged in the acquisition, assessment, exploration, and development of mineral properties located in highly prospective areas and mining-friendly districts. Golden Sky's mandate is to develop its portfolio of properties to the mineral resource stage through systematic exploration. The drill-ready properties include Hotspot and Lucky Strike, both in Yukon, Canada. In addition, the drill-ready Rayfield Copper-Gold Property in southern British Columbia, and the staking of the Auden Property in Ontario, add to the company's substantial early-stage Canadian property pipeline. The company was incorporated in 2018 and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. More information can be found at the Company's website at www.goldenskyminerals.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD John Newell, President and Chief Executive Officer Carl Schulze, P. Geo., Consulting Geologist with Aurora Geosciences Ltd, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for Golden Sky's British Columbia exploration projects, and has reviewed and approved the technical information in this release. 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 Statements contained in this news 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. In certain cases, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as "anticipates", "expects", "understanding", "has agreed to" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "would", "occur" or "be achieved". Although Golden Sky has attempted to identify important factors and risks that could affect Golden Sky and may cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in Forward-Looking Information, there may be other factors and risks that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including, without limitation: inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting drill results and other exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Golden Sky's expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title and permitting matters; labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, including to fund any exploration programs on its projects; that Golden Sky may not be able to confirm historical exploration results and other risks set forth in Golden Sky's public filings at www.sedarplus.ca. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, Golden Sky has applied several material assumptions, including the assumption that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner. 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, Golden Sky 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259777 SOURCE: Golden Sky Minerals Corp. DELRAY BEACH, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Blood Pressure Cuffs Market, valued at US$0.6 billion in 2024 stood at US$0.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 9.0% from 2025 to 2032, culminating in a forecasted valuation of US$1.3 billion by the end of the period. The increasing global burden of chronic non-communicable diseases, including hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders, primarily drives the expansion of the blood pressure monitoring market. These conditions significantly increase blood pressure levels, necessitating consistent monitoring and management. Moreover, heightened public and clinical awareness of hypertension and its associated complications has led to greater demand for effective diagnostic and monitoring solutions. Concurrently, market growth is further supported by continuous technological advancements and product innovation by key industry players. These developments include introducing non-invasive, automated, and wearable blood pressure monitoring devices to improve accuracy, usability, and patient compliance. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=14931460 Browse in-depth TOC on "Blood Pressure Cuffs Market" 376 - Tables 50 - Figures 309 - Pages By type, the blood pressure cuffs market is divided into automated and manual segments. Appropriately validated automated blood pressure measuring devices (BPMDs) are considered the preferred standard for clinical diagnosis and management of hypertension. The growth of the automated segment is primarily fueled by the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases and the widespread adoption of advanced technologies that offer greater accuracy, ease of use, and efficiency in blood pressure monitoring. By end users, the blood pressure cuffs market is segmented into hospitals, home care settings, ambulatory care centers, urgent care centers, primary centers, and other end users. As of 2024, the hospitals segment accounted for the largest market share. The large share of the segment can be attributed to the higher purchasing power of hospitals. Hospitals are equipped with advanced monitoring technologies and follow standardized clinical procedures, which ensure reliable blood pressure readings. The growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and the increasing number of hospital admissions, especially among the elderly population, further drive demand for high-quality blood pressure cuffs in these settings. By geography, the blood pressure cuffs market is segmented into five regional segments: North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period. This rapid expansion is driven by several key factors, including emerging economies such as China, India, and Japan, which are experiencing a surge in healthcare demand. The rising incidence of chronic illnesses, particularly hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, combined with a growing awareness of early diagnosis and disease prevention, is fueling market growth in the region. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=14931460 The prominent players in the blood pressure cuffs market include OMRON Corporation, Inc. (Japan), Baxter International, Inc. (US), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), GE HealthCare Technologies, Inc. (US), and McKesson Corporation. (US), B Braun Melsungen AG (Germany), Halma plc (Uk), OSI Systems, Inc. (US), American Diagnostic Corporation (US), Medline Industries, LP. (US), Microlife Corporation (Switzerland), BIOS Medical (UK), ACCOSON (UK), CellBios (India), and Midmark Corporation (US), among others. BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC. (US): Baxter International Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a broad range of essential healthcare products, including diagnostic & patient monitoring technologies and respiratory care devices. These products are used in diverse healthcare environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, ambulatory surgical centers, physicians' offices, and home care settings under medical supervision. The company operates globally through four main segments: Medical Products and Therapies, Healthcare Systems and Technologies, Pharmaceuticals, and Kidney Care. The Healthcare Systems and Technologies segment-connected care solutions, collaboration platforms, monitoring systems, and diagnostic tools such as blood pressure cuffs-is a key component of Baxter's overall strategy. OMRON CORPORATION (JAPAN) OMRON Corporation is a global leader known for offering a diverse portfolio of products across multiple industries. The company operates through four primary business segments: Industrial Automation, Healthcare Business, Social Systems, Solutions and Service Business, and Device & Module Solutions Business. OMRON Healthcare Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Omron Corporation, specializes in medical devices and health management solutions. This division is recognized as a market leader in cardiovascular care, respiratory health, pain management, remote patient monitoring, and home healthcare equipment-particularly blood pressure monitors. MCKESSON CORPORATION (US) McKesson Corporation and its subsidiaries are a prominent provider of diverse healthcare services dedicated to improving patient health outcomes worldwide. The company operates through four main business segments: US Pharmaceutical, Prescription Technology Solutions (RxTS), Medical-Surgical Solutions, and International. The Medical-Surgical Solutions segment plays a key role in delivering a wide range of medical-surgical products-including blood pressure cuffs-as well as logistics, distribution, and support services to various healthcare providers such as physician offices, surgical centers, nursing homes, hospital labs, and home health care agencies. McKesson collaborates with manufacturers and channel partners to effectively serve these markets, focusing on key sectors such as primary care, extended care, government, and other healthcare markets. For more information, Inquire Now! Related Reports: Pulse Oximeter Market Patient Monitoring Devices Market Home Healthcare Market Respiratory Care Devices Market Pressure Monitoring Market Get access to the latest updates on Blood Pressure Cuffs Companies and Blood Pressure Cuffs Market Size About MarketsandMarkets: MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook . Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/blood-pressure-cuffs-market-worth-1-3-billion-in-2032-with-9-0-cagr--marketsandmarkets-302511914.html Bakelite announced today the successful acquisition of Sestec, a Poland-based company renowned for its sustainable, protein-based adhesives for wood and composite products. This strategic move significantly enhances Bakelite's position as a sustainability leader in the adhesive industry. The acquisition of Sestec, whose adhesives are 100% bio-based and designed to advance environmental stewardship, aligns with Bakelite's commitment to sustainability and innovation. By integrating Sestec's technology, Bakelite expands its portfolio of sustainable adhesive solutions on a global scale and continues to assist customers in achieving their sustainability commitments. "This acquisition is a transformative step for Bakelite," said JP Aucoin, President CEO of Bakelite. "Sestec's innovative, bio-based adhesives will not only broaden our product offerings but also reinforce our dedication to providing sustainable solutions. This positions us to continue to stay ahead of the increasing global demand for sustainable adhesives." Sestec's adhesive systems, which include applications for MDF, HDF, particleboard, OSB, straw and fiberboard, and plywood, will now be part of Bakelite's extensive product portfolio. The acquisition includes, in addition to their innovative technology, Sestec's administration office in Krakow, and Laboratory Production facility in Trzebinia. "Sestec represents the future of adhesives-bio-based and sustainable. The acquisition enables Bakelite to scale our technology globally while maintaining our commitment to sustainable innovation," said Klaus Hofmann, the CEO of Sestec. "Integrating Sestec's natural adhesive technologies enhances Bakelite's ability to continue to meet the increasing demand for sustainable materials solutions," added Hans Edelmann, Sestec Board Member and Co-Founder. About Bakelite: Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Bakelite is a leading global integrated producer of thermoset specialty resins, solutions and engineered thermoset molding compounds serving a variety of segments and end markets across geographies. Additional information about Bakelite and its products is available at www.bakelite.com. About Sestec: Founded in Poland with roots in German-Polish R&D collaborations, Sestec is the innovator behind one of the world's first 100% bio-based adhesive systems for panels such as MDF, HDF, OSB, and particleboard. Their solutions reduce VOC emissions, cut fossil carbon inputs, and support sustainable wood-based manufacturing (sestec.pl) View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723865773/en/ Contacts: For More Information: John Branham, Vice President Talent Communications John.Branham@bakelite.com +1 404-749-2516 Clinton Hasell appointed Chief Business Officer, leading UK and European data centre site development, core business operations and enterprise reporting functions. A Board-level executive with over 30 years' commercial and process experience across the data centre, telecoms and digital infrastructure sectors, Clinton's role will ensure the organisation operates with maximum efficiency, resilience and continuity. Previously held roles as Executive Group Director, Europe, Global Switch and senior leadership roles at Interxion and Digital Realty between 2011 and 2021. LONDON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kao Data, the specialist developer and operator of data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing, has today announced that Clinton Hasell has been appointed as the company's new Chief Business Officer. A seasoned, Board-level executive with over 30 years of commercial and operational expertise across the data centre, telecoms, and digital infrastructure sectors, Clinton has been named Chief Business Officer to spearhead the optimisation of Kao Data's core business operations. This includes the key responsibility for the company's strategic technology deployments and enterprise-level reporting - ensuring Kao Data operates with enhanced resilience and readiness to scale in line with its ambitious growth trajectory. Within his new role, Clinton will also lead the development function for Kao Data's advanced infrastructure platform, aligning the organisation's UK and European expansion plans with strategic, data-driven and AI accelerated insights to bridge Kao Data's core business objectives across AI, Cloud, and Enterprise with measurable, performance-focused outcomes. Further, by connecting end-to-end process optimisation with intelligent data, the role will also enable smarter, more informed decision-making and support the company's investment strategy - ensuring that Kao Data scales with precision, agility, and with sustained value for both its customers and investors. "I am excited to move into my new role as Chief Business Officer, and to work together with both our C-Suite and our talented organisational teams to help drive the company's growth objectives from inception to delivery," said Clinton Hasell, Chief Business Officer, Kao Data. "Kao Data has established a market-leading position as a data centre developer and operator at the bleeding edge of AI deployment and it's fitting we use the power of AI and advanced computing to deliver true business transformation." "On behalf of the company and our Board, I am delighted to welcome Clinton Hasell to the Senior Management Team as our new Chief Business Officer, and at a time of transformation and evolution for the company," said David Bloom, Founder and Executive Chairman, Kao Data. "Clinton has been a key part of our team for some time within a consultancy capacity, and it's a fantastic endorsement of our future plans and ambitions that we have permanently secured his contribution as we develop new sites to scale our data centre platform across the UK and Europe." Prior to joining Kao Data, Clinton was a key member of the Global Switch management team where, as Executive Group Director, Europe, he was responsible for maximising profitable growth across its European division. He also held senior leadership roles at Interxion, from its $1bn IPO in 2011 to its $8bn acquisition by Digital Realty Trust in 2020, which was one of the most high-profile acquisitions in the history of the data centre industry. Clinton's appointment as Chief Business Officer begins immediately. For more information about Kao Data - visit the website. About Kao Data Kao Data leads the industry, pioneering the development and operation of UK and European data centres engineered for AI and advanced computing. With hyperscale-inspired facilities east and west of London, and northern England's largest data centre planned for Greater Manchester, we are home to technology's most demanding computing infrastructure. Its award-winning, NVIDIA DGX-Ready certified data centres are designed, engineered, and operated by one of the industry's most respected teams. Together, this provides colocation customers deploying mission-critical AI, enterprise, and cloud workloads with a secure, scalable, and sustainable compute environment, backed by a guarantee of 100% uptime. Kao Data's data centre portfolio includes more than 160 MW of IT load, either currently operational, under development or planned - all of which is under-pinned by the highest energy efficiency, sustainability and ESG credentials. Backed by leading international investors, and with several pioneering 'industry firsts' to our name, Kao Data represents the future in industrial scale, high-capacity data centres for AI and the next generation of compute. Kaodata.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kao-data-appoints-clinton-hasell-as-new-chief-business-officer-302512077.html BlackRock American Income Trust Plc - Portfolio Update PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, July 23 BLACKROCK AMERICAN INCOME TRUST PLC (LEI:549300WWOCXSC241W468) All information is at 30 June 2025 and unaudited. Performance at month end with net income reinvested One Month Three Months Six Months One Year Three Years Five Years Net asset value 1.8 -1.2 -1.7 -0.2 15.1 52.2 Share price -0.7 0.6 0.1 3.1 18.0 59.2 Russell 1000 Value Index 1.8 -2.2 -3.1 4.9 27.1 73.1 Russell 1000 Value Index (Net 15% WHT Total Return)* 1.7 -2.3 -3.3 4.6 25.8 70.3 *The Company's performance reference index (the Russell 1000 Value Index) may be calculated on either a gross or a net return basis. Net return (NR) indices calculate the reinvestment of dividends net of withholding taxes using the tax rates applicable to non-resident institutional investors, and hence give a lower total return than indices where calculations are done on a gross basis. As the Company is subject to the same withholding tax rates for the countries in which it invests, the NR basis is felt to be the most accurate, appropriate, consistent and fair comparison of performance returns for the Company. At month end Net asset value - capital only: 207.16p Net asset value - cum income: 207.39p Share price: 194.00p Discount to cum income NAV: 6.5% Net yield1: 4.7% Total assets including current year revenue: 117.0m Net gearing: 0.3% Ordinary shares in issue2: 56,431,142 Ongoing charges3: 1.06% 1 Based on two quarterly dividends of 2.00p per share declared on 1 August 2024 and 13 November 2024 for the year ended 31 October 2024, one quarterly dividend of 2.00p per share declared on 1 April 2025 and one quarterly dividend of 3.03p per share declared on 15 May 2025 for the year ending 31 October 2025 and based on the share price as at close of business on 30 June 2025. Excluding 38,930,163 ordinary shares held in treasury. The Company's ongoing charges calculated as a percentage of average daily net assets and using the management fee and all other operating expenses excluding finance costs, direct transaction costs, custody transaction charges, VAT recovered, taxation and certain non-recurring items for the year ended 31 October 2024. Sector Analysis Total Assets (%) Financials 22.2 Industrials 14.1 Health Care 12.8 Information Technology 11.8 Consumer Discretionary 8.9 Communication Services 7.3 Consumer Staples 7.0 Energy 5.6 Utilities 4.2 Real Estate 3.2 Materials 3.0 Net Current Liabilities -0.1 ----- 100.0 ===== Country Analysis Total Assets (%) United States 100.1 Net Current Liabilities -0.1 ----- 100.0 ===== # Top 10 Holdings Country % Total Assets JPMorgan Chase United States 3.1 Alphabet United States 2.8 Berkshire Hathaway United States 2.8 Walmart United States 2.6 Amazon United States 2.5 Bank Of America United States 2.3 Morgan Stanley United States 1.8 Charles Schwab United States 1.8 Medtronic United States 1.7 Pfizer United States 1.7 Travis Cooke and Muzo Kayacan, representing the Investment Manager, noted: For the month ended 30 June 2025, the Company's NAV rose by 1.8% in sterling terms, in line with the Russell 1000 Value Index, which gained 1.7%. However, the share price lagged, declining by 0.7% over the same period in sterling terms. At the sector level, an overweight position in Health Care was particularly beneficial, with positioning supported by value and momentum signals. In particular, an overweight exposure in Cardinal Health contributed, as the stock rallied following its Investor Day, where the company's raised earnings guidance reaffirmed strong long-term growth targets and expanded its share buyback programme. An underweight allocation to Real Estate was less successful; however, this was not driven by allocation, as the sector faced only modest headwinds over the month. Instead, the underperformance stemmed almost entirely from an overweight position in Equinix, which shed 18% of its market value following the announcement of aggressive capital expenditure plans and lowered guidance for future earnings growth during its Analyst Day2. At the signal level, sentiment-oriented insights continued their strong performance, particularly through guiding strong selection in Financials. Once again, insights leveraging text mining of management earnings calls delivered robust results, as did slower-moving short interest signals. In contrast, quality signals - particularly those evaluating balance sheet strength via metrics such as expected default frequency - were less effective over the month. These signals were wrongfooted by a broad-based risk-on rally, driven by falling rate expectations and renewed soft-landing optimism. Investor appetite shifted toward higher-beta, more speculative names, with fundamentals like leverage and earnings stability temporarily overshadowed by liquidity-driven sentiment and momentum in growth assets3. Positioning Changes At the sector level, the largest buy was of Industrials, which moved from a small underweight position to a modest overweight, driven by strong momentum and sentiment signals. Real Estate was the largest trim, driven by negative views from quality signals. 1Cardinal Health, "Cardinal Health Details Momentum and Updated Long-Term Value Creation Plans at Investor Day", June 2025 2Reuters "Equinix shares fall as revenue, capital spending forecast disappoint investors", June 2025 3Reuters, "Trading Day: Markets 'run it hot'", June 2025 Source: BlackRock. 23 July 2025 Latest information is available by typing blackrock.com/uk/brai on the internet, "BLRKINDEX" on Reuters, "BLRK" on Bloomberg or "8800" on Topic 3 (ICV terminal). Neither the contents of the Manager's website nor the contents of any website accessible from hyperlinks on the Manager's website (or any other website) is incorporated into, or forms part of, this announcement. FRANKLIN, NJ / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Silver Scott Health, Inc. a division of Silver Scott Mines, Inc. (OTC Pink:SILS) is pleased to announce that renowned psychotherapist, media personality, and certified relationship expert Jill Dictrow, LMFT will be bringing her signature blend of wisdom, wit, and real-world advice to the readers of Peachhim.com and Eggplanther.com as a featured monthly columnist, the companies announced today. With a clinical background that spans over a decade in private practice and therapeutic outreach - including counseling lifers in California prisons and starring as host of Discovery Life's Sex in Public - Dictrow offers a rare combination of psychological depth, empathy, and cultural awareness. Her columns will address everything from intimacy and identity to mental health and modern masculinity and femininity, often shaped by anonymous reader questions submitted through both sites. "I'm thrilled to be contributing to platforms like Peachhim and Eggplanther that are committed to honest conversations about mental, emotional, and sexual wellness," said Dictrow. "We live in a time when people are craving connection and clarity - and I'm here for all of it: the awkward, the funny, the painful, and the transformational." Peachhim.com, a hub for women's sexual health and wellness, and Eggplanther.com, a pioneering men's health and vitality resource, will publish Dictrow's insights in a cross-platform format. The partnership aims to normalize dialogue around mental health, aging, desire, relationships, and the challenges unique to both male and female audiences navigating life in today's digital age. Dictrow brings a powerhouse resume to the role. A licensed marriage and family therapist practicing in Los Angeles and via telehealth with Rula Mental Health, she has also provided therapy at institutions including San Quentin State Prison and the California Institution for Women. A long-time advocate for LGBTQ+ clients, she has held clinical roles at The Center in Long Beach and South Bay Center for Counseling. In parallel with her therapy work, she has a rich media background including writing, producing, and appearing in unscripted television and stage productions. Visitors to Peachhim.com and Eggplanther.com will soon be able to submit questions confidentially for potential inclusion in future columns - ensuring that Dictrow's commentary is not only expert-driven but deeply rooted in the real concerns of the community. For updates and upcoming articles, visit www.peachhim.com and www.eggplanther.com . About Silver Scott Health Silver Scott Health, Inc. Is a division of Silver Scott Mines, Inc. (OTC Pink:SILS). The Company's mission is to create affordable healthcare options across the spectrums of care for Americans. The Company looks to fill in the gaps that large companies deem unprofitable and unworthy of attention. The company is redeveloping www.affordabletelehealthplan.com and has plans for additional healthcare launches this year. Forward Looking Statements This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected and projected. Words such as expects, believes, anticipates, intends, estimates, seeks and variations and similar words and expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements with respect to revenues, earnings, performance, strategies, prospects and other aspects of the businesses of Silver Scott Mines are based on current expectations that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Media Contact: Stuart Fine Silver Scott Health stuartfine@silverscottmines.com 908-356-9852 SOURCE: Silver Scott Mines Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/banking-and-financial-services/jill-dictrow-lmft-joins-peachhim.com-and-eggplanther.com-as-monthly-1051927 A strategic move to accelerate focus on Premiumization and Innovation Regulatory News: Press Release Paris, 23 July 2025 Pernod Ricard (Paris:RI) is pleased to announce the signing by Pernod Ricard India Private Limited (Pernod Ricard India) of a definitive agreement to sell its Imperial Blue business division to Tilaknagar Industries Ltd (TI), a leading player in the spirits market in India. This sale strengthens Pernod Ricard India's portfolio, enabling the business to fully tap into premiumization trends and support sustained, profitable growth. As Pernod Ricard's second-largest market, India is a strategic priority, and this realignment improves the ability to capitalize on the country's strong macroeconomic fundamentals and long-term potential. Upon closing, the transaction is expected to be immediately and meaningfully accretive to Pernod Ricard India's operating margin and net sales growth rate. Pernod Ricard's active portfolio management is a key contributor to its dynamic growth across categories and geographies. The transaction is the result of the Group's continuous assessment of its strategic opportunities, in line with its long-standing commitment to deliver sustainable value to its shareholders, employees, clients and partners. Alexandre Ricard, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard, stated: "We are pleased to announce the sale of the Imperial Blue business division, a strategic move to sharpen our focus on more profitable and faster growing brands in India, like in the rest of the world. This transaction represents a win-win for all stakeholders involved, both at the global and local level. It fuels our ambition to succeed even further in one of our top markets. This will further streamline our operations as we continue to invest in India's outstanding growth." Jean Touboul, CEO of Pernod Ricard India added: "By exiting the Admix Value segment, this disposal will allow Pernod Ricard India to unlock further profitable growth and sharpen its focus on premiumization and innovation. It will also enable the company to allocate resources more effectively toward high-growth brands such as Royal Stag, which has already surpassed the 30-million cases milestone, Blenders Pride, and international brands like Chivas, Jameson, Absolut, and Ballantine's. Driving the next phase of growth, we are entering an exciting new chapter, one that will see bold innovations and an expanded premium portfolio tailored specifically for the evolving Indian consumer." The transaction remains subject to the approval from the Competition Commission of India, and closing is expected to occur within the coming months. About Pernod Ricard Pernod Ricard is a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, blending traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art brand development, and global distribution technologies. Our prestigious portfolio of premium to luxury brands includes Absolut vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine's, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur and Mumm and Perrier-Jouet champagnes. Our mission is to ensure the long-term growth of our brands with full respect for people and the environment, while empowering our employees around the world to be ambassadors of our purposeful, inclusive and responsible culture of authentic conviviality. Pernod Ricard's consolidated sales amounted to 11 598 million in fiscal year FY24. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices. About Tilaknagar Industries Limited Tilaknagar Industries is one of India's leading alcoholic beverage companies, with a rich legacy spanning over 90 years. Founded in 1933 by Shri Mahadev L. Dahanukar as Maharashtra Sugar Mills, TI has, over the years, transformed into a major player in the India Made Foreign Liquor ("IMFL") industry having a manufacturing footprint of 21 units across 12 states. TI's brand portfolio straddles multiple categories, featuring two 'Millionaire' brandy brands Mansion House and Courrier Napoleon along with a strong presence in whisky, rum, and gin through Mansion House Whisky, Madiraa Rum and Blue Lagoon Gin. Recently, TI has expanded into the luxury segment with Monarch Legacy Edition Brandy View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723245054/en/ Contacts: Pernod Ricard Investors Florence Tresarrieu Global SVP Investor Relations and Treasury +33 (0) 1 70 93 17 03 Edward Mayle Investor Relations Director +33 (0) 6 76 85 00 45 Ines Lo Franco Investor Relations Manager +33 (0) 1 70 93 17 13 Media Emmanuel Vouin Head of External Engagement +33 (0) 1 70 93 16 34 Jessica Whyte Media Relations Manager +33 (0) 6 76 93 73 73 BANGALORE, India, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AI Search Browser Market is Segmented by Type (Function Extension Plug-in Based on Existing Browser, Native Browser), by Application (Free, Paid): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2031. The global market for AI Search Browser was valued at USD 1923 Million in the year 2023 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 5209 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 15.3% during the forecast period. Claim Your Free Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-38Q18484/Global_AI_Search_Browser_Market_Research_Report Major Factors Driving the Growth of AI Search Browser Market: The global AI search browser market is witnessing rapid growth driven by personalization demands, productivity enhancements, and multimodal search adoption. Native AI browsers and plug-in extensions are revolutionizing how users discover and consume content. The transition from keyword-based to context-aware, conversational search is reshaping the user experience. Rising enterprise adoption, privacy concerns, and AI integration with existing tools are further supporting market penetration. With active investments and continued innovation in LLMs and natural interfaces, the AI browser ecosystem is poised for large-scale disruption. As users prioritize intelligent, ethical, and efficient digital experiences, the AI search browser market is expected to sustain high growth momentum. Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-38Q18484/global-ai-search-browser TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE AI SEARCH BROWSER MARKET The emergence of AI-powered native browsers is a major driver of the AI search browser market. These browsers are designed from the ground up with integrated AI engines that offer personalized recommendations, semantic understanding, and natural language interaction. Unlike conventional browsers that rely on keyword-based search, native AI browsers understand user intent, context, and behavior to deliver relevant and efficient search results. They also integrate voice and visual search functionalities, making them more accessible and intuitive. Enhanced privacy features, AI-generated summaries, and adaptive interfaces improve user experience, especially for research, shopping, and learning. As users seek intelligent browsing alternatives, native AI browsers are becoming a preferred choice, boosting adoption across consumer and enterprise segments. Function extension plug-ins based on existing browsers are accelerating the AI search browser market by offering scalable, low-barrier entry into AI-enhanced browsing. These plug-ins retrofit conventional browsers with AI capabilities, enabling personalized search, summarization, ad filtering, and contextual search insights. Users benefit from AI-driven tools without needing to switch browsers, which improves acceptance and market penetration. Enterprises are leveraging such plug-ins to improve productivity, integrate task automation, and streamline workflows. These plug-ins also support cross-browser compatibility and customization, allowing developers to target a wider user base. As AI integration becomes essential for knowledge retrieval and task assistance, the demand for browser-based plug-in solutions is steadily expanding. Paid versions of AI search browsers are playing a crucial role in market expansion by offering advanced features that appeal to power users and enterprises. These premium models include enhanced privacy tools, real-time AI support, access to proprietary large language models, productivity tools, and ad-free experiences. Paid models help AI browser companies monetize innovation and fund continuous AI training and development. Corporate users particularly value paid browsers for secure internal knowledge search, collaborative tools, and regulatory compliance features. Subscription-based pricing also encourages recurring revenue and platform stickiness. The steady shift of users willing to pay for intelligent, distraction-free, and highly personalized web experiences is fostering strong commercial growth in this segment. One of the most significant factors driving the AI search browser market is the increasing consumer demand for personalized browsing and search results. Traditional search engines often provide generic links, requiring users to sift through information manually. AI browsers, however, analyze user behavior, context, interests, and intent to deliver tailored results, summaries, and content recommendations. This personalization drastically reduces the time and effort needed to locate information. AI features such as memory-based responses, learning user preferences, and session continuity create an adaptive browsing experience. As content consumption becomes more nuanced, the demand for smart, responsive search tools grows, making AI browsers essential in day-to-day information discovery. The global shift toward knowledge-based work and remote learning environments is fueling demand for AI-enabled browsing tools. Knowledge workers and students increasingly rely on web content for research, data collection, and real-time insights. AI search browsers streamline information discovery by summarizing articles, extracting key points, and generating references. This eliminates manual filtering and boosts productivity. Educational institutions and e-learning platforms are integrating AI search interfaces to offer students intuitive, context-aware research tools. As the line between learning and working blurs in digital ecosystems, smart browsing becomes vital, positioning AI browsers as indispensable companions in modern intellectual and academic workflows. The growing adoption of multimodal and voice-based interactions is a key factor driving the AI search browser market. Users are increasingly using voice commands, images, and videos for search queries, especially on mobile devices and smart assistants. AI browsers support these evolving behaviors through natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and speech recognition technologies. Multimodal search enhances accessibility and caters to users with diverse needs, including visually impaired or language-diverse populations. As users expect instant and relevant results across formats, AI browsers with multimodal capabilities offer superior experiences. This shift toward intuitive, hands-free, and interactive search modalities strengthens the appeal of AI-based browsing platforms. Claim Yours Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-38Q18484&lic=single-user AI SEARCH BROWSER MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS Regionally, North America leads the AI search browser market due to early AI adoption, a mature SaaS ecosystem, and strong investments in AI innovation. The U.S. is home to major players driving browser-based AI integration. Europe follows, fueled by data privacy awareness and regulatory compliance driving demand for ethical AI alternatives. The Asia-Pacific region is emerging rapidly, with China, India, and South Korea fostering AI startups and government-backed digital transformation. Key Players: Free GOOGLE INC Perplexity 360 Inc. Microsoft Apple OpenAI Algolia Meta Kunlun Wanwei EXA The Browser Company Brave Software Inc Andonix Andy Konwinski Meta Sota Felo AI Idoubi Purchase Regional Data: https://reports.valuates.com/request/regional/QYRE-Auto-38Q18484/Global_AI_Search_Browser_Market_Research_Report SUBSCRIPTION We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans. DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS! - The global market for Search Engine was valued at USD 204760 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 421420 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 11.0% during the forecast period. - The global Enterprise Artificial Intelligence market is projected to grow from USD 1568.3 Million in 2024 to USD 6769.1 Million by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27.6% during the forecast period. - The global market for AI Content Generation was valued at USD 1744 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 9245 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 27.3% during the forecast period. - The global market for Data Science and Predictive Analytics was valued at USD 4474 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 14880 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 19.0% during the forecast period. - The global market for Edge AI Software was valued at USD 1139 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 5266 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 24.8% during the forecast period. - The global market for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Corporate Training was valued at USD 465 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 1803 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 21.7% during the forecast period. - The global market for AI Gateway was valued at USD 3084 Million in the year 2023 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 8721 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 14.3% during the forecast period. - Conversational AI Tool Market - Desktop Web Browser Market - Generative AI Market - AI-based SEO Tools Market DISCOVER OUR VISION: VISIT ABOUT US! 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GET A FREE QUOTE Valuates Reports sales@valuates.com For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225 WhatsApp: +91-9945648335 Website: https://reports.valuates.com Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/ Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@valuatesreports6753 https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese https://valuatesreportspanish.blogspot.com/ https://valuateskorean.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesgerman.blogspot.com/ https://valuatesreportjapanese.blogspot.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082232/Valuates_Reports_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ai-search-browser-market-to-hit-usd-5209-million-by-2030-driven-by-native-ai-and-personalized-search--valuates-reports-302512110.html NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / By Danny O'Hare Air traffic is now recovering from the COVID downturn. The challenge for many airports is how the traffic can be managed more sustainably and efficiently while considering emissions and the needs of local communities. Additional capacity from new runways and ground infrastructure is expensive and can be subject to lengthy and complicated planning. In some cases, it's simply not possible. Experience with the Intelligent Approach system-initially developed for London Heathrow and now operating at Toronto Pearson and Amsterdam Schiphol-is a great showcase, demonstrating that technology really can help. Just ask the airports, airlines and air traffic controllers that use it. What is Intelligent Approach? Intelligent Approach is a suite of controller tools, jointly developed by Leidos and navigation service provider NATS. The system safely optimises arrival spacing to maximise runway capacity, enabling increased operational resilience, reducing fuel burn and CO2 emissions, and delivering better on-time performance. It can be integrated into any air traffic management system, providing dynamic separation indicators for air traffic controllers to maximize available runway capacity. Intelligent Approach simplifies the separation of aircraft for air traffic controllers, offering capacity gains usually equivalent to two or three additional landings per hour per runway. The Time Based Separation functionality automatically adjusts spacing based on real-time wind data downlinked directly from each aircraft. This has been shown to reduce the impact of headwinds on runway capacity by over 60%. For air traffic controllers using the tools, the concept is simple. The controllers are presented with a dynamic indicator, which shows the minimum safe separation that should be used and is automatically adjusted for aircraft type and real-time wind conditions. The indicator also automatically shows the controllers if the lead aircraft will need more time to allow it to exit the runway and considers the compression that happens when the lead aircraft slows to its landing speed, providing accurate indicators all the way to the runway threshold. What are the benefits of using Intelligent Approach? In January 2023, Amsterdam Schiphol became the most recent airport to adopt the technology, immediately seeing a significant capacity and operational resilience benefit. After a year in use, LVNL (the Netherland's air traffic service provider) has reported three to six additional landings per hour on each of its runways under headwind conditions. The additional tactical capacity has allowed increased use of the noise preferential runway at Schiphol, reducing noise impact on local communities. Soon after implementation, LVNL CEO Michiel van Dorst commented, "By implementing RECAT-TBS, we contribute to improving the residential quality and living environment for people living in the local community by using the most noise sensitive runways less. We also achieve safer and better throughput in landing air traffic flows which results in airlines suffering less from delayed flights during high winds at Schiphol." At Heathrow, Intelligent Approach is enabling savings of some 45,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum and significantly improving the airport's operational punctuality. A British Airways operations director described it as essential to maintaining efficient operations and providing the best service possible to the airline's passengers. Toronto Pearson is seeing similar benefits, with early data showing a reduction of 6% or more in spacing between both wake and non-wake pairs. It is anticipated that this will lead to a corresponding increase in runway capacity in both high wind and indeed, low wind conditions. And that's not the end of the story. With the typical payback period for the cost of Intelligent Approach being measured in a few months, not years, more airports are adopting this technology. Discover more about Intelligent Approach View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Leidos on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Leidos Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/leidos Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Leidos View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/intelligent-air-traffic-technology-boosts-efficiency-at-major-ai-1051965 AMPRIOR, ON / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Plaintree Systems Inc. today announced its intention to initiate an orderly wind-down of the business and operations of its wholly owned subsidiary, Summit Aerospace USA Inc. Following its closure, Plaintree will proceed with the liquidation of Summit's assets. The primary reason for the decision is due to a material reduction in business from one of Summit's major customers, which business is unlikely to recover. This decision also reflects the Company's ongoing commitment to operational efficiency and strategic alignment. By streamlining its business and focusing on core growth areas, Plaintree aims to position itself for long-term success and value creation for shareholders. In fiscal 2025, the revenue generated by the Summit Aerospace USA Inc. business was $2,408,450 and represented 10.1% of Plaintree's consolidated revenue and its net loss before income tax and other expenses was $416,058 representing 52.4% of the consolidated net loss before income tax and other expenses. Summit Aerospace USA Inc. represents 11.7% of Plaintree's consolidated total assets. "This was not a decision we made lightly," said David Watson, CEO of Plaintree Systems. "Summit Aerospace has contributed significantly to our journey, and we are proud of what our U.S. team has accomplished. However, after a careful consideration of the likelihood of future business, the decision is the correct one for Plaintree at this time. By completing this transition, it enables us to reallocate resources and pursue new opportunities for our continuing businesses with greater agility." It is the current plan to totally cease Summit's operations on or about August 15, 2025. The wind-down and asset liquidation will be conducted in a structured manner to ensure minimal disruption to employees, customers, and stakeholders. Plaintree remains committed to transparency and will provide timely updates as the process unfolds. About Plaintree Systems Plaintree has two diversified product lines consisting of Specialty Structures and Applied Electronics. The Specialty Structures Division includes the Triodetic Group with over 40 years of experience, is a design/build manufacturer of steel, aluminum and stainless steel specialty structures such as commercial domes, foundations for unstable soil conditions and flood zones, for free form structures, barrel vaults, space frames and industrial dome coverings, and Spotton Corporation, a design and manufacturer of high end custom hydraulic and pneumatic valves and cylinders. The Applied Electronics Division includes the legacy Hypernetics, Summit Aerospace USA Inc. and Elmira Stove Works Inc. businesses. Hypernetics was established in 1972 and is a manufacturer of avionic components for various applications including aircraft antiskid braking, aircraft instrument indicators, solenoids, high purity valves and permanent magnet alternators. Summit Aerospace USA Inc. provides high precision machining to the aerospace and defense markets. Our facility includes 5 axis CNC precision machining of complex castings and large ring parts such as turbine and assembly shrouds as well as assembly & pressure seals. Summit will support requirements from concept, prototype and throughout production. Elmira Stove Works Inc a manufacturer of high-end heritage and retro-styled kitchen appliances under the brand names "Northstar", "Fireview" and "Heritage". Plaintree's shares are traded under the symbol "NPT". Shareholders and Investors can access Company information on CSE's website and receive full Company disclosure monthly. For more information on Plaintree or to receive stock quotes, complete with trading summaries, bid size and ask price, brokerage house participation, insider reports, news releases, disclosure information, and CSE and SEDAR filings, visit the CSE website at www.cnsx.ca or the Company's website at www.plaintree.com. Plaintree is publicly traded in Canada on the CSE (NPT) with 12,925,253 common shares and 18,325 class A preferred shares outstanding. This press release may include statements that are forward-looking and based on current expectations. The actual results of the company may differ materially from current expectations. The business of the company is subject to many risks and uncertainties, including changes in markets for the company's products, delays in product development and introduction to manufacturing and intense competition. For a more detailed discussion of the risks and uncertainties related to the company's business, please refer to documents filed by the company with the Canadian regulatory authorities, including the annual report of the Company for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024 and related management discussion and analysis. Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release. For further information: Rob Turley, CFO (613) 623-3434 x2282 SOURCE: Plaintree Systems, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/plaintree-systems-inc.-announces-strategic-wind-down-of-u.s.-subs-1051990 Press release Paris, 23 July 2025 at 18h Exail Technologies achieved very strong growth in the 2nd quarter 2025, both in revenue and order intake. The acceleration of maritime robotics programs and the increase in navigation system deliveries were the two main drivers of revenue growth. In both areas, Exail Technologies benefits from its technological leadership built over the past 15 years, which is proving highly relevant in rapidly expanding markets. The defense sector is making a significant contribution to commercial expansion, with the signing of numerous sovereign programs during the quarter, particularly in Europe and Asia. This momentum is complemented by the trend observed among civil customers, who are gradually integrating drone systems such as the DriX into their maritime operations and adopting advanced navigation solutions. Order intake reached 125 million, up +51%, driven notably by mine countermeasure programs won recently. Navigation system sales also continued to grow at a strong pace. Revenues of the 2nd quarter and 1st semester 2025 by segment (in million of euros) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Var. m Var. % H1 2025 H1 2024 Var. m Var. % Order intake 125 83 +42 +51% 612 162 +450 +279% Consolidated revenues 126 83 +43 +52% 220 163 +58 +35% Navigation & Maritime robotics segment 100 64 +36 +56% 171 125 +46 +37% Advanced technologies segment 30 23 +7 +31% 56 44 +12 +27% Structure & intra-group eliminations -3 -4 - - -6 -6 - - Backlog at the end of the period 1 100 630 +471 +75% 1100 630 +471 +75% Order intake for the 2nd quarter 2025: 125 million, up +51% The 2nd quarter 2025 was marked by several commercial successes in maritime robotics for defense. The group sold UMIS drone systems for mine countermeasures and DriX surface drones for a new maritime surveillance application. Navigation system sales remained strong across both defense and civil applications. The Navigation & maritime roobotics segment generated 90 million in orders, up +64% compared to the 2nd quarter 2024. Commercial successes in maritime robotics Exail secured several major drone system contracts in the 2nd quarter 2025, primarily for defense applications. These include, in particular, the following programs: For a mine countermeasure modernization program in an Asia-Pacific navy, Exail was selected to supply multiple MIDS systems (Mine Identification and Disposal Systems), totaling several dozen robotic systems. The same client had also ordered Exail navigation and positioning systems for the same application. Following an international tender, Exail Technologies was selected by the Indonesian Navy to supply several robotic systems for its underwater mine countermeasure program. The navy will be equipped with a next-generation UMIS solution, including surface and underwater drones[1]. A first order for a fleet of drones for a new naval application. A European navy has ordered five autonomous DriX surface drones, which will be used to carry out maritime surveillance missions. This success marks an important milestone in the operational deployment of drones for ISR missions (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance). Navigation systems: more than 45 M of order intake, up c.15% Sales of navigation and positioning systems saw a clear increase this quarter, supported by strong trends across all markets: naval defense, land defense, civil maritime operations, and space applications. Land and airland defense applications were significant drivers of growth for the quarter. In this rapidly expanding market, Exail is gaining market share thanks to its mastery of fiber optic technology, which is increasingly being used to equip vehicles as well as tactical aerial drones. Another engine of growth this quarter came from civil maritime operations, particularly fueled by increasing activity in the North Sea in the field of marine energy and offshore construction. Among the notable orders of the quarter, we can highlight the following: Several orders were placed to equip tactical aerial drones with the latest generation of ultra-compact UmiX 40 systems. The UmiX series represents the world's most compact high-performance inertial measurement unit. These orders include a contract in Spain for Airbus SIRTAP drones as well as an order to equip a very large number of aerial drones in Europe There were also several significant orders for navigation systems dedicated to land defense, from the Advans range. The inertial navigation units sold are intended for a variety of applications such as anti-drone systems, equipping light-armored vehicles, or mobile surveillance systems and radars. The Advanced technologies segment recorded 35 million in orders in the second quarter of 2025, a 25% increase. The commercialization of optical fibers was one of the sigificant contributors to this performance, with a growing number of small unitary orders from both civil and defense clients. In addition, a new multi-million-euro order in the field of simulation was recorded this quarter for the defense sector in France. Revenues growing +52% in the 2nd quarter 2025 Exail Technologies achieved revenue of 126 million in the second quarter of 2025. This excellent absolute performance is further boosted in relative growth by a favorable base effect (the second quarter of 2024 was disrupted by the intense commercial activity at the start of 2024). Navigation & maritime robotics segment: 100m, up +56% The revenue increase in the second quarter is the combined result of progress on numerous mine countermeasure programs and significant deliveries of navigation systems. The contribution from maritime robotics programs continues to strengthen, driven by the multitude of contracts won. The BENL program, intended for the Belgian and Dutch forces, has entered its delivery phase. Other programs, such as the first phase of the French program or the program for the Emirati Navy, are also beginning to generate significant revenue. Production of DriX surface drones is also accelerating, supported by sales in recent quarters. The activity has been reinforced by the success of the new 16-meter DriX version and recent developments for new applications in surveillance missions. Deliveries of navigation systems increased again this quarter by more than 20%, thanks to rapid growth in production capacity. This performance is all the more remarkable given that the second quarter of 2024 was already particularly strong. This solid industrial control supports commercial activity and continues the positive momentum of market expansion for this business line. Advanced Technologies Segment: 30 million, or +31% revenue The activity of this segment involves developing cutting-edge components and products (notably special optical fibers, optical modulators, on-board equipment) that are sold directly to third parties or integrated into the systems of the first segment. The increase in business volume mainly comes from external clients, in connection with the orders mentioned previously. This performance includes about 0.7 million in revenue from Leukos, a company acquired at the end of December 2024 and integrated into the Advanced Technologies segment. Outlook Growth in the second quarter has been exceptional. Combined with the very strong performance in the first quarter, this allows for the anticipation of a very significant increase in current EBITDA in absolute terms. The change in working capital requirements has also been well contained, whereas traditionally the first half of the year is less profitable and consumes more cash than the second half. This first part of the year demonstrates the strength of the company's technological differentiators, enabling it to fully benefit from a favorable market context, especially in the defense sector. Exail Technologies thus confirms its 2025 targets announced at the beginning of the year: double-digit revenue growth and current EBITDA growth outpacing that of revenue. About Exail Technologies Exail Technologies is a high-tech defense company specializing in autonomous robotics and navigation systems, with strong vertical integration across its fields. The group offers maritime drone systems, particularly for underwater mine countermeasures, and inertial navigation systems using cutting-edge fiber optic gyroscope technology. Exail Technologies ensures performance, reliability, and safety for its civilian and military clients operating under harsh conditions, generating revenues in nearly 80 countries. The company primarily generates revenue in the defense sector but also serves civilian customers. Exail Technologies is listed on Euronext Paris Compartment B (EXA) and the OTCQX trading market (EXALF). The company is part of the Euronext Tech Leaders segment, which includes over 110 leading or high-growth tech companies in their respective fields. It is also included in the MSCI Global Small Caps index www.exail-technologies.com Contacts : Investors Relations Hugo Soussan Tel. +33 (0)1 44 77 94 86 h.soussan@ exail-technologies.com Anne-Pauline Petureaux Tel. +33 (0)1 53 67 36 72 apetureaux@actus.fr Media Relations Manon Clairet Tel. +33 (0)1 53 67 36 73 mclairet@actus.fr [1] For standard administrative reasons relating to the signing of the contract, this order is included in the order intake for the third quarter. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: m5xrlMpvZ5uVxpxxZMllbZZrmW1klpOXbGXHmJeaZp+UmZpllGqWmZycZnJkl2Vs - 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-0-93206-cp_exail-technologies_ca-q2-2025_en.pdf CHICAGO, IL / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Visterra Landscape Group, one of the nation's fastest growing commercial landscaping platforms, today announced all six operating Visterra partner companies were honored with prestigious Safety Recognition Awards by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). The program reflects NALP's dedication to creating and maintaining safe work environments in the lawn and landscape industry and designed to reward lawn and landscape industry companies that consistently demonstrate their commitment to safety. Specific Visterra partner company awards included: Full Care, Overall Safety Achievement - Gold GroundsPRO, Overall Safety Achievement - Gold H&M Landscaping, Overall Safety Achievement - Silver Oberson's Nursery & Landscape, Overall Safety Achievement - Silver Dyna-Mist, Overall Safety Achievement - Bronze Riverside Services, Overall Safety Achievement - Bronze Visterra President and CEO Alan T. Handley stated that both customers and employees are more inclined to work with organizations that cultivate safe workplaces and view safety as an ongoing commitment, not merely a compliance requirement, upheld through the personal accountability of every employee. "Our steadfast commitment to safety-demonstrated through our comprehensive policies, training initiatives, and consistent daily operations-is integral to our core company values. We are privileged to once again be recognized by NALP for our safety accomplishments across all platform companies," Handley said. "We will continue to promote a strong safety culture that prioritizes the well-being of every employee, and we sincerely value the collective dedication of our field staff, supervisors, and management teams whose contributions are essential to these achievements." Visterra demonstrates a strong commitment to safety through initiatives such as weekly executive safety meetings, safety circle discussions, AI-powered vehicle cameras, comprehensive CPR and first aid training for all field staff, OSHA compliance training, and strict use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. Additionally, Visterra acknowledges outstanding safety practices by recognizing Safety All-Stars from each partner company every quarter, based on nominations from supervisors and executive management for exemplary safety performance. Companies entering NALP's Safety Recognition AwardsProgram are required to submit a copy of their OSHA 300A Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses report and their year-end vehicle insurance claims summary report. Each company is evaluated on the number of accidents, number of days that employees are away from work, and number of employee injuries and illnesses. In addition, a checklist was used to rate the company's complete safety program. About NALP The National Association of Landscape Professionals is the national trade association and leading voice for the $150 billion landscape industry, which employs more than 1 million professionals. NALP helps shape policy and regulations and provides industry-leading education, training, and resources that help industry companies reach their highest potential. For more information, visit www.landscapeprofessionals.org. ABOUT VISTERRA LANDSCAPE GROUP Visterra Landscape Group is a premier commercial landscaping platform, safely delivering expert landscape maintenance, enhancement, construction, sweeping and critical winter services with a reputation for excellence in client service. Visterra ranks among the 30 largest landscape service providers and 12th largest snow and ice removal companies in North America. Visterra is a repeat winner of both Lawn and Landscape's Best Places to Work in Landscaping and National Association of Landscape Professionals' Safety Recognition Awards. With incumbent partner leaders guiding day-to-day operations, Visterra continues to grow its platform with a team that prioritizes employee safety, well-being and dynamic career opportunities. Visterra partner companies include Riverside Services and Herzog Landscape Solutions in the Northeast; Dyna-Mist in the South, and Oberson's, GroundsPRO, Full Care, H&M Landscaping and Cru Cutters serving the greater Midwest. For more information visit www.vlgllc.com. ### Contacts: Media: media@vlgllc.com M&A: inquiry@vlgllc.com SOURCE: Visterra Landscape Group View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/visterra-landscape-group-partner-companies-score-six-national-sa-1051989 PRESS RELEASE - REGULATED INFORMATION HYBRID SOFTWARE GROUP: 2025 INTERIM REPORT Cambridge (UK), 23 July 2025 (18.00 CEST): Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) announces it has published its half year report and unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2025. The full document is available to download from the financial reports section of the Company's web site at https://hybridsoftware.com/investors/financial-reports. Mike Rottenborn, Hybrid Software Group CEO comments, "Hybrid Software Group delivered a solid performance in the first half of 2025, with all three reporting segments in line with our budget for revenue and operating profit at mid-year. Beginning with the Printing Software segment, we have repeatedly mentioned that 2024 opened with 3.3 million in revenue from the renewal of a large OEM contract in Japan. With no similar renewal in Q1 of 2025, our figures looked weak compared to 2024. This has normalised in Q2 with the launch of Mako Apex, a new variant of our Mako software that supports Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to render complex graphics much faster than Central Processing Units (CPUs). This allows our OEM customers to increase the performance of their software while reducing the total computing cost, and sales of Mako Apex are driving new contracts in Q2 and beyond. In addition, OEM royalties from the sale of digital presses which incorporate the Harlequin RIP and/or SmartDFE, our patented AI-optimised Digital Front End software, continue to build. Moving to the Printhead Solutions segment, the good results from Q1 continued in the second quarter. Business in China remains strong, but we also see significant growth in Europe and North America and a reduced dependence on sales to our largest customer in China. Sales continue to grow in the additive manufacturing (3D printing) space, where inkjet plays a significant role. The chip shortage is over: manufacturing costs are under control and margins have improved significantly. We continue to introduce new printhead drivers for our customers and have an exciting development pipeline which bodes well for the future prospects in this segment. The Enterprise Software segment continues to perform well. In comparing our first half figures to last year, it is important to remember that the largest trade fair for the printing industry, Drupa, took place in May and June of 2024. Hybrid Software closed a lot of business during Drupa but that left the sales pipeline relatively weak in the third quarter, and we did not see a recovery until October of last year. The current situation is much better. Enterprise Software sales increased more than 7% in the first half of 2025 and the pipeline looks promising as we enter Q3. Our BrandZ business continues to grow as a supplier of software solutions to brands and CPGs while supplying complementary software to the printers and trade shops which also service these brands." Financial highlights (unaudited) For the six months ended 30 June In thousands of euros 2025 (unaudited) 2024 (unaudited) Revenue 26,592 26,922 Operating profit 2,210 2,344 Profit before tax 1,415 1,870 Tax credit 223 281 Profit for the period 1,638 2,151 EBITDA from continuing operations 5,431 6,483 Adjusted operating profit 3,953 4,383 Adjusted net profit 3,189 3,998 Cash and cash equivalents 11,159 8,041 Loans & borrowings (4,400) (6,900) Net cash 6,759 1,141 About Hybrid Software Group Through its operating subsidiaries, Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) is a leading developer of software and electronics for labels & packaging and industrial print manufacturing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, and hundreds of packaging printers, trade shops, and converters worldwide. Hybrid Software Group PLC is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are colour technology experts ColorLogic, printing software developers Global Graphics Software , enterprise software developer HYBRID Software, 3D design and modelling software developers iC3D, the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists Meteor Inkjet , and pre-press workflow developer Xitron. Contacts H1 2025 impacted by weaker demand Revenue for H1 2025 to 13.4 million, -57% vs. H1 2024 Order intake at end-June 2025 reached 10.2 million, -67% vs. H1 2024 Launch of AutonoMEA, an innovative solution combining energy generation and storage in June 2025 Mitigating customer sensitivity to electricity price volatility and enhancing energy sovereignty by aiming up to 80% autonomy Structuring of the Group to improve commercial and operational efficiency Appointment of two Deputy Chief Executive Officers in charge of Business Development and Innovation and in charge of Operations and Human Resources Cash position to 11.6m1 as of June 30, 2025 vs. 16m as of December 31, 2024 Regulatory News: Groupe OKWIND (FR0013439627 ALOKW), which is specialized in the design, manufacture and sale of smart energy generation and management systems dedicated to self-consumption, today announces its revenue for the first half of 2025, ended June 30, 2025. Louis MAURICE, Founder and Chairman of Groupe OKWIND, states:"The first half of 2025 was marked by regulatory changes and lower electricity prices. This overall environment was not conducive to new investment projects in the solar sector, resulting in a wait-and-see attitude from many of our prospects, particularly in the Farm sector. Therefore, we continued to implement strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing our sales momentum, including the launch of AutonoMEA last June. Our new high value-added solution integrates several technological components (next-generation solar trackers, smart battery storage system, and an advanced energy monitoring system), representing a major differentiator for the Group. Concurrently, we have reinforced our executive leadership team with the appointment of two Deputy CEOs. These efforts are expected to support a return to a sustainable growth trajectory in the coming quarters." Activity for the first half of 2025 in million 30/06/2025 30/06/2024 Change In % Revenue 13.4 31.4 -57% of which BtoB 11.7 27.7 -58% of which BtoC 1.8 3.7 -53% In the second quarter of 2025, Groupe OKWIND recorded revenue of 7.2 million, compared to 16.3 million in Q2 2024, bringing total revenue for the first half of 2025 to 13.4 million, a 57% decrease compared to the first half of 2024. The revenue breaks down as follows: 87% of revenue from the BtoB segment: 11.7 million, down 58%, - 13% of revenue from the BtoC segment: 1.8 million, down 53%. In the Farm business line, the Group OKWIND's core market, commercial momentum was significantly affected by the decline in electricity prices, as was the Individual Customers business line. In total, firm order intake amounted to 10.2 million at end-June 2025. The backlog totaled 19.2 million as of June 30, 2025. As of June 30, 2025, the Group's available cash position1 stood at 11.6 million. Key Highlights of H1 2025 During the first half of 2025, Groupe OKWIND implemented key measures to support the recovery of its commercial momentum: Launch of AutonoMEA: a self-consumption solution to boost energy independence Amid a shifting market landscape increasingly favorable to self-consumption solutions that are not eligible for public subsidies (with the ARENH mechanism set to end in 2026, gradual phase-out of public support for photovoltaic installations, etc.), Groupe OKWIND introduced AutonoMEA, a comprehensive and innovative energy self-consumption offer. Combining next-generation solar trackers, smart battery storage, and an advanced monitoring system, this new offer, designed to deliver up to 80% energy autonomy, supports the Group's strategy to enhance the energy sovereignty of its clients. As a strong differentiator, AutonoMEA also represents a significant growth driver, particularly within the installed base (over 5,000 installations in France), offering strong potential for the deployment of dedicated storage solutions. AutonoMEA reflects the Group's ability to deliver disruptive technological solutions that operate independently of public subsidies. Strengthening of governance Groupe OKWIND has decided to reorganize its executive team with the appointment of Valentin MAURICE as Deputy CEO for Business Development and Innovation, and Steven MOUTY as Deputy CEO for Operations and Human Resources. With their in-depth knowledge of the Company, both will leverage their experience to drive the Group's development. Outlook Over the medium term, Groupe OKWIND aims to leverage its new organization and the commercial rollout of its new offer to reinitiate a growth trajectory. Next financial announcement: Publication of 2025 Half-Year Results and Third Quarter Revenue, on October 21, 2025 About Groupe OKWIND Founded in 2009 by Louis Maurice, Chairman and CEO, the French Group OKWIND is the expert in individual and collective self-consumption of energy. Its global approach and cutting-edge technology aim at enhancing the energy independence and sufficiency of farms, companies, local authorities and private individuals. Every day, the OKWIND Group strives to deploy local, controlled, stable, low-carbon, fixed-cost energy to accelerate and optimize the ecological transition. The Group designs, develops and deploys complete green energy management solutions (local solar production, self-consumption, excess energy recovery, improved consumption practices). By becoming producer-consumers (prosumers), OKWIND customers can generate their own energy, control their production and regulate their electrical processes. Historically based in the Great West of France, 30km from Rennes (Torce), the OKWIND Group is close to its customers, with several agencies and work centers throughout France. In 2024, the OKWIND Group generated consolidated revenue of 57.1 million and today has 235 employees, with more than 5,000 installations throughout France. For more information: www.okwind.fr 1 Cash and cash equivalents include available cash, bank overdrafts, short-term marketable securities and term deposits View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723124164/en/ Contacts: Groupe OKWIND Investor Relations investors@okwind.fr NewCap Thomas Grojean/Aurelie Manavarere Investor Relations okwind@newcap.eu T.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 NewCap Nicolas Merigeau Media Relations okwind@newcap.eu T.: +331 44 71 94 98 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Parvis Invest Inc. (TSXV: PVIS) ("Parvis" or "the Company"), a technology-driven private investment platform, today announced that Roy Murad has stepped down from the Company's Board of Directors, effective July 21, 2025. The Company extends its sincere thanks to Mr. Murad for his contributions and wishes him well in his endeavours. Parvis is pleased to announce the appointment of Noah Murad as Director effective July 21, 2025. Noah Murad is the Managing Partner of Bluestar Equity, a private family investment office owned by the Murad Family. He brings extensive experience in private markets and long-term capital stewardship. Noah holds a BA from Western University and an MBA from Athabasca University. "We are delighted to welcome Noah to the Board as we scale the business and pursue new opportunities," said David Michaud, Chief Executive Officer of Parvis. "His expertise and connectivity within the Canadian capital ecosystem will be invaluable as we advance our strategic objectives." About the Company Parvis is a technology-driven investment platform dedicated to democratizing access to institutional-quality opportunities. Utilizing AI and blockchain technology, Parvis streamlines the investment process, making it more accessible and efficient. Headquartered in Vancouver, Parvis operates with experts in Toronto, Vancouver, Kelowna, and Montreal. For more information, visit www.parvisinvest.com and SEDAR+. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information generally refers to information about an issuer's business, capital, or operations that is prospective in nature, and includes future-oriented financial information about the issuer's prospective financial performance or financial position. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" or similar expressions and includes information regarding: execution and integration of the investment offerings; and the Company's business plans and role in the investment industry. To develop the forward-looking information in this news release, the Company made certain material assumptions, including but not limited to: prevailing market conditions; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; and the ability of the Company to execute and achieve its business objectives. 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 assumes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information in this news release, unless it is required to do so under Canadian securities legislation. 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. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. Follow us on social media: Instagram: @ParvisInvest Facebook: ParvisInvest LinkedIn: Parvis To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259793 SOURCE: Parvis Invest Inc. CANNES, France, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2025 edition of CANNES GALA - a cultural honours ceremony held in official collaboration with the Cannes Film Market "Marche du Film" at the Cannes Film Festival - was officially unveiled to the world, once again bringing together an extraordinary gathering of global leaders, creators, and innovators under the theme "Honest and Noble." CANNES GALA is a platform designed to honour individuals and organizations whose work significantly contributes to the evolution of the global content industry - spanning cinema, music, technology, performing arts, space exploration, and cultural heritage. The highlight of the evening was the Preuve du Do Ceremony, honouring six exceptional individuals for their outstanding contributions. Preuve du Do is a distinction bestowed upon individuals and organizations who have profoundly shaped the evolution of the global content industry. The honour was presented by the following distinguished figures: Ado (Japan) - Music Ado's work, created under anonymity, has illuminated an era shaped by repression and solitude, becoming a foundational voice for a new generation of creators. Maverick Space Systems (USA) - Space Recognised for pioneering missions bridging the arts and space engineering. Mitsubishi Pencil Co. (Japan) - Animation Celebrated for decades of support to the animation industry through their iconic pencils. Gavin Wood (UK) - Technology Recognised for advancing Web3 and decentralised internet innovation. LEGO Group (Denmark) - Toy & Education Honoured for inspiring generations of creative minds globally. Julie Taymor (USA) - Performing Arts Celebrated as a pioneer of multidisciplinary stage and film direction. The ceremony also featured an exceptional cultural performance: Noh "Yugao," led by Shonosuke Okura, a designated Living National Treasure of Japan, in combination with Japanese Ikebana by Ryota Hagiwara (Produced by Mucha-Kucha). A charity auction was held in support of artists with disabilities, with proceeds going to relevant institutions and programs, reinforcing CANNES GALA's mission to support diversity and inclusion within the creative industries. While the MET GALA and the GRAMMY Awards celebrate excellence in fashion and music, CANNES GALA establishes a distinct cultural space within the content industry - honouring creators and visionaries who inspire across disciplines. The next edition of CANNES GALA is already being prepared. We look forward to welcoming you back to Cannes in May 2026. CANNES GALA Chairman: Taichi Executive Producer: Ryo Nakatsuji Producer: Takuro Ando Director: Ippei Nishihara Produced by NOMA Media Contact CANNES GALA Ryo Nakatsuji info@cannes-gala.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2737038/CANNES_GALA_2025.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736749/CANNES_GALA_2025.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/at-the-cannes-film-festival-cannes-gala-2025-honours-global-cultural-contributions-302512243.html "A strategic overview of biophotonics innovations, market trends, and cross-industry applications shaping the future of healthcare and life sciences." BOSTON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest study from BCC Research, "Biophotonics: Technologies and Global Markets" was valued at $62.6 billion in 2024 and it is expected to grow from $68.4 billion in 2025 to reach $113.1 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% from 2025 to 2030. The report offers a comprehensive look at the biophotonics market, examining its growth across applications like imaging, sensing, and light-based therapies. It analyzes usage trends in medical diagnostics, therapeutics, and testing, as well as regional dynamics across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other global markets. Market drivers, challenges, and innovations in material design are discussed, along with insights into leading companies and their offerings. This report is particularly relevant today as the biophotonics market is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technological advances and increased demand for healthcare. Innovations in optical technologies are expanding the scope of biophotonics across multiple industries, particularly in non-invasive diagnostics and therapeutic applications. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases further fuels the need for advanced, precise, and less intrusive medical solutions. In this dynamic environment, staying informed about market trends and emerging opportunities is crucial for stakeholders aiming to leverage the full potential of biophotonics. The factors driving the market's growth include: Growing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The increasing global burden of chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases is driving demand for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Biophotonics offers precise, real-time imaging and monitoring solutions that support early detection and effective treatment, making it essential in modern healthcare. Rising Demand for Non-Invasive Diagnostics: Patients and clinicians prefer non-invasive diagnostic methods for their safety, comfort, and efficiency. Biophotonics technologies such as optical coherence tomography and Raman spectroscopy enable accurate, painless diagnostics, reducing the need for surgical procedures and improving patient outcomes. Advances in Optical Technologies: Rapid innovation in lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems has enhanced the performance and accessibility of biophotonics tools. These advances allow for higher resolution, faster data processing, and integration with AI, expanding their use in both clinical and research settings. Expansion into Non-Medical Applications: Biophotonics is finding applications in industries like agriculture, food safety, environmental monitoring, and forensics. Its ability to detect biological and chemical changes makes it valuable for quality control, pollution detection, and security, broadening its market reach. Increasing Penetration of Personalized Medicine and Precision Healthcare: As healthcare moves toward personalized and precision approaches, biophotonics plays a key role by enabling molecular-level diagnostics and targeted therapies. Its capabilities support tailored treatment plans based on individual patient profiles, aligning with the future of medicine. Request a sample copy of the global market for biophotonics report. Report Synopsis Report Metric Details Base year considered 2024 Forecast period considered 2025-2030 Base year market size $62.6 billion Market size forecast $113.1 billion Growth rate CAGR of 10.6% from 2025 to 2030 Segments covered Application, Technique, End Use and Region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World (Latin America and the Middle East and Africa) Countries covered U.S., Canada, Germany, U.K., France, Japan, China and India Market drivers Growing prevalence of chronic diseases. Rising demand for non-invasive diagnostics. Advances in optical technologies. Expansion into non-medical applications. Increasing penetration of personalized medicine and precision healthcare. Interesting facts: In vitro biophotonics accounted for 72% of the biophotonics market in 2024 because of the rising need for early disease detection, better optical imaging technologies, and increased use of personalized medicine. North America accounted for 52.8% of the biophotonics market in 2024 thanks to its strong technical infrastructure, sizable investments in research, and demand from healthcare, life sciences, and biotech industries. Growth was also boosted by partnerships and innovations from leading companies Thermo Fisher Scientific, Danaher Corp., and Hamamatsu Photonics. Combining biophotonics with nanotechnology has led to major improvements in ultra-sensitive diagnostic tools and targeted treatments. This has made disease diagnosis more accurate and helped create personalized treatment plans that improve patient outcomes. Emerging startups Lithium Lasers DYSIS Medical Inc. Sascan Meditech Pvt Ltd The report addresses the following questions: What is the projected size and growth rate of the market? - The market is projected to reach $113.1 billion by the end of 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.6% during the forecast period. Which factors are driving the growth of the market? - The key factors driving the market include the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, rising demand for non-invasive diagnostics, and advances in optical technologies. Which market segments are covered in the report? - The four market segments covered are application, technique, end use and region. Which end-use segment will be dominant through 2030? - The medical diagnostics end-use segment is expected to dominate the market through 2030, driven by the increasing demand for non-invasive and real-time diagnostic techniques, advancements in optical imaging technologies, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Which region has the largest market share? - North America holds the largest share of the global market, due to its advanced technical infrastructure, sizable R&D investments, and demand from sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, and biotech. Market leaders include: BECTON DICKINSON BIOPHOTONICS DIAGNOSTICS GMBH EXCELITAS TECHNOLOGIES CORP. GLENBROOK TECHNOLOGIES HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K. IDEX IPG PHOTONICS CORP. ISMO BIOPHOTONICS PVT. LTD. LUMA BIOPHOTONICS OLYMPUS CORP. OXFORD INSTRUMENTS OZ OPTICS LTD. THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC INC. TOPTICA PHOTONICS AG ZEISS Related reports: Photonic Integrated Circuits: Global Markets with Special Focus on Silicon Photonics: The report offers a comprehensive overview of the photonic integrated circuits (PICs) market, examining key components such as transceivers, lasers, modulators, detectors, MUX/DEMUX, and optical amplifiers. It highlights their application across sectors like optical communication, sensing, biophotonics, and signal processing. The study provides regional insights spanning North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World, while analyzing market dynamics, including drivers, challenges, and emerging trends. It also emphasizes advances in material design and performance and concludes with analysis of the competitive landscape. Medical Imaging: A BCC Research Outlook: The report offers a detailed analysis of the medical imaging market, covering key product types such as X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT, nuclear imaging, and emerging modalities like optical and photoacoustic imaging. It provides sales forecasts segmented by product, application, and end user, while examining regional dynamics, market drivers, and the competitive landscape. The study also highlights technological innovations shaping the future of medical imaging. Purchase a copy of the report direct from BCC Research. For further information on any of these reports or to make a purchase, contact info@bccresearch.com. About BCC Research BCC Research market research reports provide objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities. Our experienced industry analysts' goal is to help you make informed business decisions free of noise and hype. Contact Us Corporate HQ: 50 Milk St., Ste. 16, Boston, MA 02109, USA Email: info@bccresearch.com Phone: +1 781-489-7301 For media inquiries, email press@bccresearch.com or visit our media page for access to our market research library. Any data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183242/5428508/BCC_Research_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/biophotonics-strategic-market-and-tech-overview-302512258.html Tendam is Spain's second-largest apparel group by market share and one of Europe's leading omnichannel apparel groups. Tendam's 12 well-established owned fashion brands offer diversity and international exposure, further deepening the Group's presence in consumer-focused industries. The transaction, valued at AED 5.6 billion ( 1.3 billion) enterprise value, positions Multiply Group as a key player in the global Retail Apparel landscape. Multiply Group (ADX: MULTIPLY), the Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company that invests in and operates businesses globally, today completed its first major investment in Europe with the acquisition of a majority stake in Tendam, Spain's second-largest apparel group by market share1. The deal doubles Multiply's operational EBITDA post-consolidation and expands its model to acquire standout businesses, unlock potential through capital and tech, and deliver sustained market leadership. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723669640/en/ Multiply Group Completes Acquisition of Tendam, Doubling Operational EBITDA and Expanding Global Footprint (Photo: AETOSWire) As one of Europe's leading omnichannel apparel groups, Tendam operates more than 1,800 points of sale and runs successful digital loyalty programmes in over 80 markets, including Spain, Portugal, France, the UAE, and Latin America, making it well-positioned in the evolving retail landscape. From affordable fashion to premium styles, the company's diversified portfolio of 12 established brands caters to multiple customer segments through its leading fashion brands such as Women'secret, Springfield, Cortefiel and Pedro del Hierro, among others. Multiply now has a majority interest of 67.91% in Castellano Investments S.A R.L. ("Company") (the owner of Tendam Brands S.A.U. and other subsidiaries), with Llano Holdings S.A R.L. and Arcadian Investments S.A R.L., the corporate investment vehicles for CVC Funds and PAI Partners, remaining as minority shareholders. With this investment, Multiply Group deepens its investments in consumer-focused industries and establishes a presence in the retail and apparel sector, with Tendam becoming a platform business under Multiply's Retail Apparel vertical. Multiply will lead the next growth phase of Tendam. This growth is predicated on further international expansion across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. Embedding AI across all aspects of the business, from sourcing to customer operations, will support this growth journey and will leverage the digital infrastructure the company already has in place. In addition, Multiply will support the business on targeted M&A to introduce new brands and categories. Samia Bouazza, Group CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, said: "This acquisition marks Multiply Group's strategic entry into the retail and apparel sector. By securing a controlling interest in a leading omnichannel platform, we are investing in a future-focused, high-performing business model backed by an outstanding management team. Built on strong, well-established owned brands, the platform offers the agility and vision to expand into new categories and scale emerging brands globally. With our expertise in creating synergies, deploying AI, and driving strategic M&A, we are poised to accelerate growth and unlock long-term value for our shareholders." From a strategic standpoint, the acquisition offers Multiply Group a significant opportunity to leverage Tendam's strong brand platform and proven performance to drive future growth, supported by favourable consumer tailwinds in the global apparel retail market. Jaume Miquel, Chairman and CEO of Tendam, highlighted: "Today we are starting a new era. Together, shareholders and management team will fully deploy the Tendam potential, extending our brands to new formats, markets and channels supported by advanced artificial intelligence and digital technology, delivering stronger growth and profitability through a unique, unrivalled omnichannel brand ecosystem." Since 2020, driven by its proven management team, Tendam has recorded steady, quarter-on-quarter growth, strengthening its business model in core markets while expanding its international presence. At the end of June 2025, the company reported last twelve months sales of 1.4 billion and EBITDA post-IFRS 16 of 340.7 million. Multiply Group has been advised by Greenhill (a Mizuho affiliate), Hogan Lovells and KPMG on the transaction. Castellano and its current shareholders have been advised by Uria Menendez. Ramon Hermosilla Abogados and Latham Watkins LLP were legal advisors to Tendam on this transaction. ABOUT MULTIPLY GROUP Multiply Group PJSC is an Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company that globally invests and operates in transformative, cash-generating businesses. Known for its trademark growth mindset, Multiply Group will continue to deploy capital across its two distinct arms, both of which follow a disciplined approach to investing and ensure consistent, sustainable value creation for our shareholders in the short, medium and long term. Multiply, the investments and operations in long-term strategic verticals, currently investing and operating in Mobility, Energy Utilities, Media Communications, Wellness Beauty, and Retail Apparel. Anchor investments provide long-term recurring income, through which bolt-on acquisitions are made. Multiply+, the Group further engages in opportunistic, sector-agnostic investments, via mainly minority stakes in private and public markets. For more information, visit www.multiply.ae. About Tendam Tendam is a leading European multibrand, omnichannel vertical apparel retailer and Spain's second largest player by market share. It operates in the premium mass-market segment and is built on a fully-integrated, customer-centric, data-driven ecosystem. The Company currently has 12 own brands: Women'secret, Springfield, Cortefiel, Pedro del Hierro, Hoss Intropia, Slowlove, High Spirits, Dash and Stars, OOTO, HI&BYE, Milano, and the children's clothing line Springfield Kids. Tendam also sells close to 200 curated third-party brands through its multibrand, omnichannel platform. Currently, Tendam operates in more than 80 countries through more than 1,800 points of sale (including directly-operated stores, corners and franchises) and online, with 33 websites for eight of its own brands, six apps, and other third-party websites and marketplaces. Tendam's corporate website is available at www.tendam.es 1 The acquisition of Tendam's businesses in Bosnia and Herzegovina will not become effective until it is authorised by the relevant competition authority, which is expected to be received shortly. Source: AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723669640/en/ Contacts: For further information, please contact: Wassim El Jurdi Multiply Group E: wassim@multiply.ae Rawad Khattar Weber Shandwick M: +971 56 336 2131 E: rkhattar@webershandwick.com Regulatory News: SFL (Paris:FLY) has published its Interim Financial Report for the six months ended 30 June 2025 and filed it with France's securities regulator, Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF). The document can be viewed at the SFL website, www.fonciere-lyonnaise.com, in the "Publications" section under "Results". About SFL Referent in the prime segment of the Parisian commercial real estate market, Societe Fonciere Lyonnaise stands out for the quality of its property portfolio, which is valued at 7.7 billion and is focused on the Central Business District of Paris (cloud.paris, Edouard VII, Washington Plaza, etc.), and for the quality of its client portfolio, which is composed of prestigious companies. As France's oldest property company, SFL demonstrates year after year an unwavering commitment to its strategy focused on creating a high value in use for users and, ultimately, substantial appraisal values for its properties. With its sights firmly set on the future, SFL is committed to sustainable real estate with the aim of building the city of tomorrow and helping to reduce carbon emissions in its sector. Stock market: Euronext Paris Compartment A Euronext Paris ISIN FR0000033409 Bloomberg: FLY FP Reuters: FLYP PA S&P rating: BBB+ stable outlook View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723357945/en/ Contacts: SFL Thomas Fareng T +33 (0)1 42 97 27 00 t.fareng@fonciere-lyonnaise.com www.fonciere-lyonnaise.com The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation Has Awarded 47 Villages of Fort Belvoir Residents With Academic Scholarships FORT BELVOIR, VA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation , a non-profit affiliate of The Michaels Organization , recently celebrated the awarding of $437,500 in scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year to 47 residents living at The Villages of Fort Belvoir , on-post housing owned and managed by Michaels. 2025 Fort Belvoir Michaels Scholars Michaels' 2025 Fort Belvoir Scholars pose with their awards alongside Colonel David J. Stewart, Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander and David Dentino, SES, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing and Partnerships "An education can change the world, and this scholarship is just the beginning of that journey," said David Dentino, SES, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing and Partnerships. "This is a phenomenal way for The Michaels Organization to give back to the community and to continue being more than just a housing provider." "Michaels is deeply committed to supporting our military families- not only by providing quality housing, but also by ensuring our residents have the resources they need to pursue their dreams," said John Zurlo, Senior VP of Investment Management for The Michaels Organization. "As the children of service members, these students have already made sacrifices for our country, and it is a privilege for us at Michaels to support their academic success." The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation provides grants to residents to use toward their pursuit of higher education at any accredited college, university, or vocational training program in the nation. Scholarships are awarded annually and students may reapply each year of their undergraduate education for continuing grants. All foundation funds are raised through voluntary contributions by corporations, companies, families, private trusts, and individuals throughout The Michaels Organization's business network. All donations are then matched $2 for every $1 by The Michaels Organization's Founder and Chairman, Michael J. Levitt, and his wife, Pat Levitt. Among this year's scholars awarded at Fort Belvoir is Alejandra Escobar, a rising senior at Texas A&M University studying mechanical engineering. With her degree, Alejandra hopes to make everyday life more environmentally friendly. Another scholar, David Speilman Jr., will be transferring to Georgetown University in the fall to continue his Computer Science degree. After graduation, David plans to serve as a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger, proudly continuing a family tradition of military service. Michaels has been a Department of Defense private-sector partner since 2004 and began offering scholarships for military residents in 2006. Since then, the Foundation has awarded over $6 million to Michaels' military residents - almost $2 million of which has been to Fort Belvoir residents. Fort Belvoir's scholarship awards are a part of the greater $2.4 million awarded by the Foundation, which was announced in June as benefiting residents of Michaels' military and affordable communities. In total, the Foundation has awarded $19 million across programs for Michaels' affordable, military, and student housing communities within its portfolio. ### About The Michaels Organization Michaels is a national leader in residential real estate, offering full-service capabilities in development, property and asset management, construction, and investment. Serving more than 200,000 residents in more than 600 communities across 39 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Michaels is committed to crafting housing solutions that jumpstart education, civic engagement and neighborhood prosperity, and to creating Communities That Lift Lives. About The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation The Michaels Educational Foundation is a non-profit affiliate of The Michaels Organization, established to administer scholarships to Michaels residents. The scholarship program was the first of its kind in the affordable housing industry when it was created and since its inception, the program has expanded to include residents of Michaels' military and student living communities and is monumental to The Michaels Organization's mission of Creating Communities that Lift Lives. SOURCE: The Michaels Organization View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/real-estate/villages-of-fort-belvoir-residents-receive-437k-in-academic-scholarships-1052045 EQS-News: United Terra Enterprises PLC / Key word(s): Bond United Terra Enterprises PLC Announces Mandate for Senior Notes 23.07.2025 / 19:59 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, U.S. PERSONS (AS DEFINED IN REGULATION S UNDER THE U.S.SECURITIES ACT OF 1933), OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD BE UNLAWFUL OR WOULD BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS United Terra Enterprises PLC Announces Mandate for Senior Notes Schaan Liechtenstein, July 23, 2025. United Terra Enterprises PLC ("UTP") announced today that it has engaged Abalone Capital Ltd and Countryserv International Inc. as Co-Dealers and Lead Managers for up to USD 150 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes due 2030 ("Notes"), in a private offering that is exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The Notes are expected to be issued at an issue price of 100%. The sale of the Notes begins today and is expected to close on July 31, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The roadshow has commenced and the Company is holding meetings with investors. The Notes will be senior unsecured obligations of UTP and will be guaranteed, jointly and severally, by certain of UTP's direct and indirect subsidiaries and, on a limited basis, by certain of the Issuer's major shareholders. Interest on the notes will be payable semi-annually on July 30 and January 30 of each year, beginning on January 30, 2026. Proceeds from the Notes will be utilized to repay existing indebtedness and for general purposes and (depending on the amount of the proceeds) to advance UTP's business in both conventional oil production and the renewable energy sector in Europe. The Notes are expected to be issued outside the United States to persons that are not U.S. persons as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"), In addition, the Notes may not be offered, sold, delivered, or otherwise made available to any investor in any Member State of the European Economic Area that does not qualify as a qualified investor within the meaning of Art. 2 (e) Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017 ("Prospectus Regulation") except pursuant to an exemption from a requirement to publish a prospectus under the Prospectus Regulation. The Custodian for the Notes will be DTCC. An application will be made for acceptance by Euroclear Bank and Clearstream Banking. The Notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction. The Notes are not rated by any rating agency. UTP is undertaking no obligation to list the Notes on an exchange, but plans to list the Notes on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange after placement. Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, any state securities commission nor any other U.S. or non-U.S. securities authority, has approved or disapproved the Notes or passed upon or endorsed the merits of the offering of the Notes or the accuracy or adequacy of the offering memorandum. The offering memorandum has not been approved by any authority in its capacity as competent authority under the Prospectus Regulation or any other regulation. For additional information, please contact Peter Krempin either via email info@unitedterra.enterprises or by telephone at +423 236 40 10. About United Terra Enterprises PLC United Terra Enterprises is an international energy company engaged in the upstream oil and gas sector and the transition to renewable energy. The company is focused on establishing a responsible balance between conventional energy sources and the protection of the environment. https://unitedterra.enterprises Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, about UTP and UTP's industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding the expected closing of the offering of the Notes and the anticipated use of the net proceeds from the offering of the Notes, and effects thereof, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as "anticipate," "believe," "contemplate," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "going to," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," or "would" or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. UTP cautions you that the foregoing may not include all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release. You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. UTP has based the forward-looking statements contained in this press release primarily on its current expectations and projections about future events and trends, including its financial outlook, macroeconomic uncertainty, and geo-political conflicts, that it believes may continue to affect UTP's business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties related to: UTP's financial performance; the ability to attain and sustain profitability; the ability to generate and sustain positive cash flow; the ability to attract and retain users, partners, and advertisers; competition and new market entrants; managing UTP's growth and future expenses; compliance with new laws, regulations, and executive actions; the ability to maintain, protect, and enhance 's intellectual property; the ability to succeed in existing and new market segments; the ability to attract and retain qualified team members and key personnel; the ability to repay or refinance outstanding debt, or to access additional financing; future acquisitions, divestitures, or investments; and the potential adverse impact of climate change, natural disasters, health epidemics, macroeconomic conditions, and war or other armed conflict, as well as risks, uncertainties, and other factors described in "Risk Factors" in UTP's offering memorandum. In addition, any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on assumptions that UTP believes to be reasonable as of this date. UTP undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Disclaimer This press release does not constitute or form part of any advertising, offer, recommendation or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for, any securities in any jurisdiction, nor shall part, or all, of this press release or its distribution form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract or investment decision in relation to any securities. This press release is not a prospectus. Any offers of the Notes will be made only by means of an offering memorandum regarding the offering of the Notes. 23.07.2025 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases. Archive at www.eqs-news.com MIRAMICHI, NB / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / SLAM Exploration Ltd. ("SLAM" or the "Company") (TSXV:SXL) announces that its board of directors has approved the grant of incentive stock options (the "Options") to directors, officers, employees and consultants to acquire a total of 2,900,000 common shares in the capital of the Company at an exercise price of $0.08. All Options were granted pursuant to the Company's 10% rolling stock option plan (the "Plan") and are subject to the terms of the Plan, the applicable grant agreements and the requirements of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Options are exercisable for a five-year term expiring July 22, 2030. About SLAM Exploration Ltd: SLAM Exploration Ltd. is a publicly traded resource company with a 40,000-hectare portfolio of mineral claim holdings in the mineral-rich province of New Brunswick. The Company commenced its 2025 exploration season with a new bedrock gold discovery on its Jake Lee Gold Project, reporting four samples grading between 18.50 g/t and 75.90 g/t gold (see news release dated May 20, 2025), followed by eight samples ranging from 7.42 g/t to 94.80 g/t ( see news release dated July 9, 2025). On July 18, 2025, the Company reported a highly chargeable deep conductor situated between the Granges and the Logan zones from the first line of its 2025 Induced Polarization ("IP") survey. This deep anomaly is associated with a 64.90-meter core interval grading 1.49% copper equivalent ("CuEq"), from 23.60 meters to 88.50 meters in drill hole GW2402, within the Granges zone (CuEq calculated using an 85% recovery rate based on assay results disclosed in the Company's news release dated August 7, 2024). .The 2025 exploration program on the Company's Goodwin copper-nickel-cobalt project continues with additional lines of IP survey. The IP survey is designed to refine drill targets within and surrounding the Granges, Logan and Farquharson copper nickel cobalt zones. SLAM operates as a project generator and expects to receive significant cash and share consideration in 2025. Notably, on February 28, 2025 Slam received $9,000 in cash and 1,200,000 shares of Nine Mile Metals Inc. (CSE:NINE) pursuant to the Wedge project agreement. On March 29, 2025, the Company also received a cash payment of $60,000 and 180,000 shares of a private company pursuant to the Ramsay gold agreement. The Company retains net smelter return (NSR) royalties on both projects and expects additional cash and share payments. To view SLAM's corporate presentation, click SXL-Presentation. Additional information is available on SLAM's website and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Follow us on X @SLAMGold. Qualifying Statements: Mike Taylor P.Geo, President and CEO of SLAM Exploration Ltd., is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, and has approved the contents of this news release. Forward-Looking Information: Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements, which involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, the forward-looking statements require management to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. There is significant risk that the forward-looking statements will not prove to be accurate, that the management's assumptions may not be correct and that actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Generally forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "anticipate", "will", "expect", "may", "continue", "could", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect which, without limiting the generality of the following, include: the state of the equity financing markets in Canada and other jurisdictions; the receipt of regulatory approval; risks inherent in exploration activities; volatility and sensitivity to market prices; volatility and sensitivity to capital market fluctuations; and fluctuations in metal prices. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof or the dates specifically referenced in this press release, where applicable. Except as required by applicable securities laws and regulation, SLAM disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. 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. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CONTACT INFORMATION: Mike Taylor, President & CEO Contact: 506-623-8960 mike@slamexploration.com Jimmy Gravel, Director Contact: 902-273-2387 graveldevelopments@gmail.com SEDAR+: 00012459E SOURCE: SLAM Exploration Ltd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/slam-grants-stock-options-1052111 Rio Tinto and Empresa Nacional de Mineria (ENAMI), a state-owned Chilean mining company, signed a binding agreement to form a joint venture to develop the Salares Altoandinos lithium project in the Atacama region. The signing follows a 23 May announcement of Rio Tinto's nomination as the preferred partner for the project. As previously announced, Rio Tinto has agreed to acquire a controlling 51% interest in the project and provide up to $425 million cash and non-cash contributions including its Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) Technology. The cash contributions will include staged spending to sole fund the pre-feasibility study and further studies, subject to the joint venture progressing through investment stage-gates. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Rio Tinto Minerals Chief Executive Sinead Kaufmann said: "We are continuing to execute our strategy of building a world-class lithium portfolio to position Rio Tinto as a global leader in the responsible supply of critical minerals essential to the energy transition. The Salares Altoandinos project represents a significant opportunity to develop a large-scale, long-life, low-cost lithium brine resource. We are committed to the highest environmental standards and to ensuring any potential development is guided by transparent, respectful, and ongoing engagement with local communities in Chile's Atacama region." View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250723534247/en/ Contacts: Please direct all enquiries to media.enquiries@riotinto.com Media Relations, United Kingdom Matthew Klar M +44 7796 630 637 David Outhwaite M +44 7787 597 493 Media Relations, Australia Matt Chambers M +61 433 525 739 Michelle Lee M +61 458 609 322 Rachel Pupazzoni M +61 438 875 469 Media Relations, Canada Simon Letendre M +1 514 796 4973 Malika Cherry M +1 418 592 7293 Vanessa Damha M +1 514 715 2152 Media Relations, US Jesse Riseborough M +1 202 394 9480 Investor Relations, United Kingdom Rachel Arellano M: +44 7584 609 644 David Ovington M +44 7920 010 978 Laura Brooks M +44 7826 942 797 Weiwei Hu M +44 7825 907 230 Investor Relations, Australia Tom Gallop M +61 439 353 948 Phoebe Lee M +61 413 557 780 Rio Tinto plc 6 St James's Square London SW1Y 4AD United Kingdom T +44 20 7781 2000 Registered in England No. 719885 Rio Tinto Limited Level 43, 120 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 Australia T +61 3 9283 3333 Registered in Australia ABN 96 004 458 404 riotinto.com Category: General NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- J.F. Lehman & Company ("JFLCO"), a leading alternative asset manager focused exclusively on the aerospace, defense, maritime, government, environmental and infrastructure sectors, announced today that investment affiliates have sold Narda AcquisitionCo., Inc. ("Narda-MITEQ" or the "Company") to Amphenol Corporation ("Amphenol", NYSE: APH). Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Narda-MITEQ is a leading global designer and manufacturer of advanced radiofrequency ("RF") and microwave components and subsystems for defense and commercial end markets. The Company's highly engineered solutions facilitate the conditioning, management and transfer of RF and microwave energy in demanding operating environments across a variety of electronic warfare, signals intelligence, radar, communications and test and measurement applications. Upon acquiring Narda-MITEQ in 2021, JFLCO successfully partnered with a new management team led by Bob Tavares to improve operations, augment research and development activities and revitalize Narda-MITEQ's sales and marketing strategy to accelerate growth. The Company also executed the acquisition of Intelligent RF Solutions, LLC in December 2021 to expand Narda-MITEQ's product suite and customer base. Glenn Shor, Chairman of Narda-MITEQ and Partner at JFLCO said, "We are proud of our continued partnership with Bob and his team, as well as the significant strategic initiatives they executed to improve the Company's competitive positioning under our stewardship." Bob Tavares, Chief Executive Officer of Narda-MITEQ, commented, "Through our partnership with the team at JFLCO, we have achieved tremendous organizational and process transformation resulting in significant operational and commercial improvements for our customers and employees. We are excited to build on our successes with our new partners at Amphenol." "This transaction reflects management's successful execution of our collective strategic plan to expand the Company's product portfolio, grow sales and strengthen Narda-MITEQ's value proposition with its customers," added Ben Hatcher, a Narda-MITEQ Director and Principal at JFLCO. "We wish them continued success with Amphenol." KippsDeSanto served as exclusive financial advisor to Narda-MITEQ and JFLCO, while A&O Shearman (lead legal) and BakerHostetler (government) provided legal counsel. About J.F. Lehman & Company, Inc. Founded in 1992, J.F. Lehman & Company focuses exclusively on investing in the aerospace, defense, maritime, government and environmental industries. The firm has offices in New York and Washington, D.C. http://www.jflpartners.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/349934/j_f__lehman___company_logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/jf-lehman--company-completes-sale-of-narda-miteq-302512359.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Dr. Mike DeGagne, President and Chief Executive Officer, Indspire and his team, joined David Clarke, Head of Government Affairs, TMX Group, to close the market to celebrate the launch of two bursaries in support of Indigenous post-secondary students. Cannot view this video? Visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk_FxX4HNB8 Indspire is an Indigenous national charity that celebrates Indigenous excellence and invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada. In partnership with Indigenous, private and public-sector stakeholders, Indspire educates, connects, and invests in Indigenous people so they will achieve their highest potential. Indspire serves Indigenous students in rural and remote communities as well as urban centres across Canada. With the support of our funding partners, we disburse financial awards, deliver programs, and share resources with the goal of increasing graduation rates for Indigenous students. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259849 SOURCE: Toronto Stock Exchange Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Tenet Fintech Group Inc. (CSE: PKK) (OTCQB: PKKFF) ("Tenet" or the "Company"), an innovative analytics service provider, owner and operator of the Cubeler business development platform, today announced that the completion of the audit of the Company's year-end 2024 financial statements (the "Financial Statements") would be further delayed to align with the annual tax audit of the Company's Chinese subsidiaries. The subsidiaries' tax audit is an annual requirement for Tenet's Chinese operating entities. It is typically conducted alongside the audit of the Company's year-end financial statements, as both audits rely on similar financial information. This year, however, Tenet was unable to synchronize the two audits because of the delay in the start of the audit of its Canadian operations, resulting in additional delays to file the Financial Statements. Tenet has revised the timeline for filing the Financial Statements to August 2025, with a precise filing date to be communicated by the end of this month. About Tenet Fintech Group Inc.: Tenet Fintech Group Inc. is the parent company of a group of innovative financial technology (Fintech) and artificial intelligence (AI) companies. All references to Tenet in this news release, unless explicitly specified, include Tenet and all its subsidiaries. Tenet's subsidiaries offer various analytics and AI-based products and services to businesses, capital markets professionals, government agencies and financial institutions either through or leveraging data gathered by Cubeler, a business development platform where analytics and AI are used to create opportunities and facilitate B2B transactions among its members. Please visit our website at: https://www.tenetfintech.com/. For more information, please contact: Follow Tenet Fintech Group Inc. on social media: X: @Tenet_Fintech Facebook: @Tenet LinkedIn: Tenet YouTube: Tenet Fintech Forward-looking information Certain statements in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of Tenet to be materially different from the outlook or any future results, performance or achievements implied by such statements. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that could affect the forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, holding company with significant operations in China; general economic and business conditions, including factors impacting the Company's business in China such as pandemics and COVID-19; legislative and/or regulatory developments; Global Financial conditions, repatriation of profits or transfer of funds from China to Canada, operations in foreign jurisdictions and possible exposure to corruption, bribery or civil unrest; actions by regulators; uncertainties of investigations, proceedings or other types of claims and litigation; timing and completion of capital programs; liquidity and capital resources, negative operating cash flow and additional funding, dilution from further financing; financial performance and timing of capital; and other risks detailed from time to time in reports filed by Tenet with securities regulators in Canada. Reference should also be made to Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) in Tenet's annual and interim reports, Annual Information Form, filed with Canadian securities regulators and available via the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR+) under Tenet's profile at www.sedarplus.ca, for a description of major risk factors relating to Tenet. Although Tenet has attempted to identify certain factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking statements reflect information as of the date on which they are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect future events, changes in circumstances, or changes in beliefs, unless required by applicable securities laws. In the event the Company does update any forward-looking statement, no inference should be made that the Company will make additional updates with respect to that statement, related matters, or any other forward-looking statement. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in 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/259872 SOURCE: Tenet Fintech Group Inc. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Syntheia Corp. (CSE: SYAI) (syntheia.ai) (the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of up to $4,200,000 through the issuance of up to 35,000,000 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.12 per Unit (the "Offering"). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.16 until the date that is five years from the closing of the Offering (the "Expiry Date"), subject to an accelerated expiry in the event the volume weighted average trading price of the Common Shares exceeds $0.20 for 20 consecutive trading days, the Company may, within 10 business days of the occurrence of such event, deliver a notice to the holders of the Warrants accelerating their Expiry Date to a date that is not less than 30 days following the date of such notice and the issuance of a press release by the Company announcing the acceleration notice (the "Accelerated Exercise Period"). Any unexercised Warrants shall automatically expire at the end of the Accelerated Exercise Period. Gross proceeds raised from the Offering will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes as well as to satisfy part of the cash consideration payable to the vendor in connection with the acquisition of certain assets of Call Centre Guys Inc. as previously announced by the Company on July 4, 2025 (the "Transaction"). Closing of the Offering is subject to receipt of all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals, including the approval of Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE"). In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay 8% finders' fees in cash and/or 8% in Units or a combination of both, as permitted by the CSE. The securities issuable in connection with the Offering and the Transaction are subject to a hold period equal to the later of: (i) four months and one day from the date of closing of the Offering; and (ii) 10 Trading Days (as such term is defined in the policies of the CSE) from the date a Form 52-104F4 Business Acquisition Report, with audited financial statements of the business acquired pursuant to the terms of the Transaction, is filed in connection with the Transaction. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Syntheia Syntheia Corp. is an early-stage artificial intelligence technology company, channeling its efforts into refining and expanding its proprietary, conversational AI-based platform (the "Syntheia AI Platform"). The Syntheia AI Platform represents the integration of natural language processing ("NLP") technology, enabling it to not only understand but also respond to human language with accuracy. The Syntheia AI Platform, a generative, AI-powered algorithm equipped with a human-like voice, boasts self-learning capabilities derived from NLP methodologies. Currently in beta testing, the Syntheia AI Platform is crafted to offer a suite of automated solutions, particularly for retail-focused businesses where customer interaction and service are key to operations. At the heart of the Syntheia AI Platform is its use of AI to emulate human cognitive processes, combined with a sophisticated large language model, which is integral for interpreting and generating human-like language responses. Cautionary Statement Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The securities of the Company have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259833 SOURCE: Syntheia Corp. While Andy Byron has resigned as CEO, he is negotiating his exit package with Astronomer, which has resulted in the delay of the company issuing the statement Astronomers CEO Andy Byron garnered eyeballs recently after he was caught cozying up with the companys HR head Kristin Cabot on the Coldplay concert kiss cam in Boston. After their intimate moment went viral on social media, Astronomer has placed the duo on leave and opened an investigation into the matter. While Andy has resigned as CEO, he is negotiating his exit package with Astronomer, which has resulted in the delay of the company issuing the statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While the details are still unclear, it is said that Andy has secured an exit package. As per reports, Bryon was making $469,000 to $690,000 per year, excluding bonuses. As per the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), a report in 2023 said that the average compensation to association CEOs amounted to over 10 months of base pay is being 8.2 median. So, according to that, the yearly base salary of Byron comes to $500,000 and monthly $41, 666. In a post on LinkedIn, the software startup confirmed the news of his resignation. Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and the Board of Directors has accepted," the statement released on Saturday reads. As stated previously, Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met," it added. Coldplays Chris Martin offered concertgoers a friendly warning before Jumbotron Song in Wisconsin #Coldplay pic.twitter.com/8FuVufUAcR Ian Seggie (@IanDSeggie) July 20, 2025 Coldplays Chris Martin also issued a hilarious statement amid the fiasco. He said, How were going to do that is were going to use our cameras and put some of you on the big screen. A cartoon featuring The Simpsons has gone viral on social media. Its the exact cartoon that recreates that viral pose of Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shes no stranger to Botox either shes been using it for years but is said to be very conservative with it to ensure she never looks frozen-faced," the source added Angelina Jolie has often been described as the most beautiful woman in the world. This year, she has turned 50 and as per reports, to continue looking this gorgeous, she has been undergoing anti-aging treatment. A source close to the actress said, Angelina has always been religious about protecting her skin from the sun. That has definitely helped her stay youthful-looking. But of course, shes had some help from her dermatologist too. This past year, she decided to really make self-care a priority because she wanted to look her absolute best for this next decade. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Jolie has opted for a couple of serious laser treatments to really smooth out her overall texture and tighten things up. The results have been fantastic. Shes no stranger to Botox either shes been using it for years but is said to be very conservative with it to ensure she never looks frozen-faced, the source added. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie got married on August 23, 2014 and filed for divorce a decade later, shocking their fans. Jolie accused the actor of emotional and physical abuse. Their altercation on a flight back in 2016 was the first glimpse of a tumultuous relationship that was on the brink of crumbling apart. The F1 actor has now spoken about his phase post the divorce in a recent interview and said, I needed rebooting. I needed to wake up in some areas. Pitt added, I was pretty much on my back, on my knees. I was really open to I was trying anything that anyone threw at me. It was a particularly difficult time. Everyone was so open, it gave me permission in a way to go, OK, Im going to step out on this edge and see what happens, revealed the actor. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He added, Then I just really grew to love it. The experience, Pitt added, stood in stark contrast to his upbringing in Missouris Ozarks, where emotional suppression was the norm and everythings great. Filmed over the course of nearly four years, Asia is spotlighted as a focus of a major BBC wildlife series for the first time Presented by Sir David Attenborough, the BBCs latest landmark series Asia is set to premiere across BBC Player in India on July 18. The series trailer features original music by K-pop icon SEVENTEEN and award-winning composers Jacob Shea and Laurentia Editha for Bleeding Fingers. Filmed over the course of nearly four years, this is the first time that Asia - home to the highest mountain range, the deepest ocean, the tallest jungles, and the biggest cave became the focus of a landmark BBC wildlife series**.** The series also prominently features Indias most remarkable landscapes and the story behind the majestic elephants living in the high-altitude tea plantations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From the vast Gobi Desert to the jungles of Borneo, and from the polar wilderness of Siberia to the coral seas of the Indian Ocean, this series will showcase the breath-taking variety of Asias wildest places. Across seven one-hour episodes, audiences will journey through Asias most stunning landscapes, witness a wealth of wildlife, and uncover stories of extraordinary unseen animal behaviour. In the foothills of the Himalaya, amidst forests of bamboo, well come across Asias shyest and possibly cutest mammal: the red panda. In Nepal, well follow rhinos playing kiss chase in a bizarre courtship ritual. Five thousand metres up on the Tibetan Plateau, well witness a lone wolf relentlessly hunting a herd of antelope for hours on end. In Sri Lanka, well join elephants that have learnt to become highway thieves holding up buses to get food from the passengers. And in the rich waters of the Western Pacific, well swim with sea snakes that have learnt to team up with fish to hunt. Filming locations include Lake Baikal, the oldest and deepest lake in the world; the vast taiga forest that stretches across northern Russia; the Lut Desert in Iran; the jungles of Borneo; the coral seas of the Indian Ocean and several bustling Asian cities: Tokyo, Bangkok, Taipei, Bhopal, Hanoi and Singapore. The series will also explore the conservation challenges facing the continent and shine a light on the potential solutions being championed by the regions conservation heroes. In the final episode, the team joins a 24-hour wildlife rescue team saving Sunda pangolins in urban Singapore. Asia will stream on BBC Player starting July 18th on Tata Play Binge and with an ad on subscription on Prime Video India. The awe-inspiring series showcased Asias grandeur with a two-minute series trailer featuring an original uplifting track, with vocals by SEVENTEENs DK and SEUNGKWAN. The music transports the viewer on an emotional journey through Asia with the orchestral swells from the renowned Bleeding Fingers accompanying the breath-taking imagery. Asia is made by BBC Studios Natural History Unit, co-produced with BBC America, France Televisions and ZDF. The Executive Producer is Roger Webb, and the Series Producer is Matthew Wright. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Reverse-ageing enthusiast Bryan Johnson is known for his rigorous attempts to slow down ageing. In 2021, he launched Project Blueprint, a personal anti-ageing programme that costs $2 million (over Rs 17 crore) annually. However, he has now said he may shut it down or sell the anti-ageing company. He says that managing it while staying true to his personal beliefs has become overwhelming The 47-year-old biotech entrepreneur is known for his intense efforts to delay ageing. Image: Instagram Reverse-ageing enthusiast Bryan Johnson has said he may shut down or sell his anti-ageing company, Blueprint. Known for promoting the Dont Die ideology, Johnson has been on an unusual mission to stay young and live longer. ALSO READ | What is total plasma exchange, the procedure that Bryan Johnson underwent to remove toxins? He now says balancing his company with his personal beliefs has become too much. Is he stepping away from the business? Heres what we know: STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Is Bryan Johnson selling his anti-ageing company? The 47-year-old biotech entrepreneur is known for his intense efforts to delay ageing. In 2021, he launched Project Blueprint, a personal anti-ageing plan that, according to him, costs $2 million (over Rs 17 crore) each year. At one point, Johnson even used blood transfusions from his son in a bid to slow ageing. He eventually stopped after six months, saying he found no real benefit. His company offers various wellness products. But Johnson now feels that managing a business centred on longevity no longer fits with promoting his Dont Die belief system. Johnson has been on an unusual mission to stay young and live longer. Instagram In an interview with Wired, he said, Honestly, I am so close to either shutting it down or selling it, and mentioned he has been talking to people about this. I dont need the money, and its a pain-in-the-a** company, he added. Johnson said he had only launched the business because friends kept asking about the supplements he was using. Blueprint has been a pain in my ass. It's kept me from not focusing on the single thing Im consumed with: how does the human race survive the rise of super intelligence. Every minute spent dealing with problems like why a supplier shipped us something out-of-spec (now pic.twitter.com/1x4yXJvSV6 Bryan Johnson (@bryan_johnson) July 23, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It just evolved in a way where I was trying to do people a solid. The problem is now people see the business and give me less credibility on the philosophy side, he said. I will not make that trade-off. It is not worth it to me. So yeah, I dont want it, he added. ALSO READ | Walked naked, discussed erections: Bryan Johnsons workplace behaviour exposed However, in a recent post on X, Johnson clarified, The truth is that I need Blueprint. The world needs Blueprint. It is the practical manifestation of Dont Die. He added, The interview referenced was 3 months ago. Since then, Ive explored the options. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Why Bryan Johnson wanted to step away from Blueprint Earlier this year, The New York Times reported that Blueprint was falling short of its monthly break-even mark by at least $1 million. Johnson, however, denied that the company was in financial trouble. They painted it like we are in some kind of emergency financial situation. That is not the case. We are break-even Weve had profitable months, weve had loss months, he said. He now feels that running a business takes away from his core aim: challenging how people think about death. Johnson says he no longer wants to compromise his philosophical beliefs for commercial success. Though there has been speculation that financial pressure may be behind his move, Johnson insists his reasons are rooted in values, not money. He says he is close to deciding whether to sell or shut down Blueprint. His focus, he says, will now shift to turning Dont Die into a full-fledged movement. Bryan Johnson & the Dont Die ideology The millionaire on a mission to live forever has made his Dont Die slogan widely known through various ventures, including a Netflix documentary. In a recent interview with MIT Technology Review, Johnson spoke about his Dont Die initiative and his vision to turn it into a religion. When asked why he felt the need to start one, he said, Were in this new phase where [because of advances in AI] were trying to reimagine what it means to be human. It requires imagination and creativity, and open-mindedness, and thats a big ask. Approaching that conversation as a community or a lifestyle doesnt carry enough weight or power. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Religions have proven, over the past several thousand years, to be the most efficacious form to organise human efforts, he added. The entrepreneur explained that the Dont Die religion centres on the idea that the human body is sacred. What were really trying to say is: Existence is the virtue. Existence is the objective. If someone believes in God, thats fine. People can be Christian and do this; they can be Muslim and do this. Dont Die is a yes, and to all groups. Notably, at 19, Johnson spent two years in Ecuador as a missionary with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On returning to the US, he completed a BA in International Studies from Brigham Young University in 2003, followed by an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2007. His breakthrough came after founding Braintree in 2007, a payment processing firm that served clients like Airbnb, Uber, and GitHub. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After acquiring Venmo in 2012, Braintree was sold to PayPal in 2013 for $800 million. Johnson made around $300 million from the deal. But it was his full-time involvement in Project Blueprint that shifted his public image from entrepreneur to anti-ageing crusader. His startup offered tools to promote youthfulness through supplements, diagnostics, and food products. His unconventional obsession with reversing ageing has earned him a following of over 4 million across YouTube, Instagram, and X. How a Chinese town guards its prehistoric legacy Xinhua) 13:54, July 23, 2025 KUNMING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Beneath the clear waters of Fuxian Lake in southwest China's Yunnan Province, nestled amid beautiful surrounding hills, lies a 518-million-year-old record of early animal life, so vital a discovery that it has quietly transformed the place into a guardian of ancient history. The vivid blues catch the eye first. From the heights of Chengjiang, Fuxian Lake -- plunging over 150 meters at its deepest -- stretches out like a sapphire cradled by hills. Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) explorer and travel writer Xu Xiake once marveled at its legendary clarity, yet the lake's true wonder lies beyond its submerged mysteries. It is a living pact between a community and deep time, etched into the hills that surround it. The name "Chengjiang," meaning "clear river," is no coincidence. This small county-level city in Yunnan nestles within a landscape defined as "70 percent mountains, 20 percent water and 10 percent flat land." Its global legacy rests on Maotianshan Mountain, an unassuming hill resembling a straw hat. On July 1, 1984, paleontologist Hou Xianguang split open a slab of yellow shale and revealed a pristine Naraoia fossil. Since then, the Chengjiang Fossil Site has, for over four decades, yielded early Cambrian treasures, fossils from more than 20 phyla and over 300 species, 80 percent of them previously unknown to science. Nearly all existing animal phyla on Earth can trace their ancestral roots to this remarkable "cradle of life." In 2012, it became China's first fossil-related World Heritage site, hailed as one of the world's most important fossil assemblages and the most remarkable discoveries of the 20th century. Walk along the shoreline of Xiaowan Village today, and the pact comes into view. White-walled, dark-tiled guesthouses step gently down toward the eastern edge of Fuxian Lake, with no high-rises to disrupt the view. This quiet restraint lets nature take centre stage. Traces of deep time reveal themselves in subtle ways, with Cambrian fossils embedded in pocket parks and street corner designs. Even village homes built decades ago unknowingly hold fossils. Elders recall digging local soil to make bricks and using unusual stones to steady tables or weigh down pickle jars. Only years later did they realize these were remnants of ancient life dating back hundreds of millions of years. "Height is controlled, views are left open," said Li Yong, director of Chengjiang's natural resources bureau. "The goal is to protect everyone's right to see the lake and the surrounding hills." His guiding principle -- ecological priority, compact efficiency -- requires grey bricks and white walls, aiming to minimize visual disruption and blend architecture into the landscape. Restraint brings lasting rewards. Fuxian Lake boasts Class I water quality, the highest standard in China, while its shores are now lined with bike paths and dotted with kayaks. Maotianshan Mountain is thriving, with mining banned and forests steadily returning to its slopes. On the northern shore of Fuxian Lake, the world natural heritage museum of the Chengjiang Fossil Site houses more than 50,000 specimens. Visitors peer closely at the delicate segments of Naraoia and the lunging form of Anomalocaris. "We put a great deal of thought into the exhibition design, with a 4D cinema and VR/AR experience zones that bring ancient fossils to life," said Wang Han, the museum's executive vice curator. "Visitors feel as if they've traveled through time, witnessing the Cambrian explosion firsthand." (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) A critical flaw in Microsofts SharePoint software allowed China-linked hackers to breach dozens of systems worldwide, including US federal agencies and the nuclear weapons agency. Though no classified data has been confirmed stolen, the breach has put into the spotlight Microsofts security practices and Beijings alleged cyber-espionage efforts A hooded man holds a laptop computer as blue screen with an exclamation mark is projected on him in this illustration picture taken on May 13, 2017. Representational Image/Reuters A newly uncovered vulnerability in Microsofts SharePoint server software has led to a significant cybersecurity intrusion involving government agencies and private organisations around the world. Among the most high-profile victims is the US National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) the agency that manages the countrys nuclear arsenal. Although current assessments indicate that no classified or sensitive nuclear information has been compromised, the intrusions have revealed serious flaws in software security practices. What happened? The breach emerged after Microsoft announced that hackers were actively exploiting a flaw in on-premises versions of its SharePoint platform a workplace collaboration system widely used across both public and private sectors. The flaw allowed attackers to remotely access servers, steal credentials, extract cryptographic keys, and potentially install persistent backdoors for further exploitation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This type of vulnerability, classified as a zero-day when first discovered due to the absence of an immediate fix, offered attackers access to internal systems that were not hosted on Microsofts cloud infrastructure. More from Explainers Why is the Trump administration destroying nearly $10 million worth of contraceptives? Microsoft released partial mitigation guidance earlier this month but only issued comprehensive patches for all affected SharePoint versions on Monday, by which time attackers had already begun exploiting the flaw. The issue does not affect cloud-hosted versions of SharePoint, but organisations that maintained self-managed SharePoint installations have been exposed to considerable risk. How is China involved? Microsoft publicly disclosed that at least three threat actors based in China tracked as Linen Typhoon, Violet Typhoon, and Storm-2603 were actively using the vulnerability to attack internet-facing SharePoint servers. Two of these groups are believed to be associated with Chinese intelligence agencies, while the third remains under investigation. In a blog post published Tuesday, Microsoft stated, As of this writing, Microsoft has observed two named Chinese nation-state actors, Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon, exploiting these vulnerabilities targeting internet-facing SharePoint servers. In addition, we have observed another China-based threat actor, tracked as Storm-2603, exploiting these vulnerabilities. This revelation comes amid a broader cyber exploitation campaign believed to involve multiple hacking entities. According to Microsoft and private security firms involved in the investigation, groups not connected to China have also begun leveraging the same SharePoint flaw to infiltrate targets. These actors have varying motivations, including data theft, espionage and ransomware deployment. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Its critical to understand that multiple actors are now actively exploiting this vulnerability, Charles Carmakal, Chief Technology Officer at Googles Mandiant Consulting, told The Washington Post. We fully anticipate that this trend will continue, as various other threat actors, driven by diverse motivations, will leverage this exploit as well. Who in the US has been impacted? Investigators have confirmed that at least two US federal agencies have been impacted by the breach, with one US official involved in the incident response saying the number could rise to four to five or more as the situation unfolds. A second official confirmed that the number of affected agencies is likely greater than what has been publicly acknowledged so far, reported The Washington Post. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) was among the institutions infiltrated, according to a Bloomberg report. Although preliminary assessments suggest that no classified nuclear-related data was accessed, the fact that the agency responsible for safeguarding nuclear weapons was breached has intensified concerns in national security circles. Eye Security, a private cybersecurity firm, reported that at least 54 organisations have suffered breaches related to the SharePoint exploit. The victims include a private US university, a California-based private energy provider, and a federal health agency. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Investigators have also found evidence linking US-based compromised servers to IP addresses inside China during the active exploitation window last weekend. Despite the mounting evidence implicating Chinese hacking groups, the US government has not officially attributed the campaign to Beijing. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have acknowledged their involvement in addressing the breach but have refrained from commenting on attribution or the total number of agencies affected. The White House has also declined to issue a statement on Chinas possible role. How has Beijing responded to the allegations? The Chinese Embassy in Washington responded to inquiries about the incident by reiterating its standard position on cybercrime: China firmly opposes and combats all forms of cyber attacks and cyber crime a position that is consistent and clear, a spokesperson said. At the same time, we also firmly oppose smearing others without solid evidence. This statement echoes prior Chinese responses to cyber espionage accusations by Western governments. Although China did not deny the allegations outright, it maintained that it is a victim of cyber intrusions as well. Security researchers assisting US federal investigators have pointed out that some of the early victims were organisations with a strategic interest to the Chinese government. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD One analyst noted that network activity from affected SharePoint systems was traced to IP addresses geolocated in mainland China. We assess that at least one of the actors responsible for this early exploitation is a China-nexus threat actor, said Carmakal, whose firm is directly involved in the response effort. How is Microsoft dealing with the breach? Critics argue that Microsoft has failed to adequately safeguard its widely used software, despite its central role in supporting sensitive systems across government and industry. Government agencies have become dependent on a company that not only doesnt care about security, but is making billions of dollars selling premium cybersecurity services to address the flaws in its products, said US Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in response to the latest incident. Democratic lawmakers from the House Homeland Security Committee have requested briefings from Microsoft and CISA concerning Microsofts use of China-based engineers for servicing some US government systems. This is not the first time Microsoft has faced questions about its security posture in the context of Chinese cyber espionage. In 2023, Chinese-linked actors exploited a different Microsoft vulnerability to gain access to emails of the US ambassador to China and the US Commerce Secretary. That breach prompted a federal review panel to sharply criticise Microsofts security practices. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD More recently, the Pentagon announced a review of its entire cloud infrastructure, following reports that engineers based in China had been offering technical support for certain Department of Defense systems. Microsoft has now patched all vulnerable versions of SharePoint impacted by the flaw. The company stated that it is working closely with CISA, the US Department of Defences Cyber Defence Command, and other global cybersecurity partners to mitigate the damage. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the company has been coordinating closely with key stakeholders and is urging customers to implement all security updates immediately. Beyond patching the flaw, experts recommend that organisations conduct thorough internal reviews. This includes replacing cryptographic keys, deploying advanced anti-malware tools, and auditing systems for signs of compromise. According to Palo Alto Networks, organisations using SharePoint may also have seen spillover effects into other Microsoft services like Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, and Office, which are often integrated into SharePoint workflows. The SharePoint exploit is already being described as one of the most serious cybersecurity incidents of US President Donald Trumps second term. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Also Watch: With inputs from agencies Kristin Cabot, who was spotted at a Coldplay concert canoodling with Andy Byron, former CEO of the firm Astronomer and her boss, is part of an elite Boston Brahmin family in Massachusetts. But who are these Boston Brahmins? And how is Kristin linked to them? Kristin Cabot was spotted at a Coldplay concert canoodling with Andy Byron, former CEO of the firm and her boss. Image courtesy: X Kristin Cabot has been in the spotlight these past few days. Cabot was spotted at a Coldplay concert canoodling with Andy Byron, former CEO of the firm and her boss. While a couple being on a kisscam at a rock concert is no big deal, the problem is that Cabot and Byron were cheating on their spouses. Cabot and Byron have both been mercilessly taken to task over the past few days. a, while Kristin thus far has not. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Cabot, interestingly, is by marriage part of the wealthy Cabot family who themselves are in the Boston Brahmins. But who are the Boston Brahmins? What do we know about them? Lets take a closer look: Who are they? The term Boston Brahmins was coined by Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Holmes, who was a famous author and poet, used the phrase in his 1861 novel Elsie Venner. It refers to the creme de la creme of Boston society the moneyed, educated elite. Holmes in his book referred to these families as The Brahmin caste of New England. This was a pointed reference to India and the caste system prevalent here at the time. Ironically, Holmes son Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. These Massachusetts families could be identified by a few things. Firstly, by their roots. They were nearly all descended from the Puritans who came over from England to the new world in the 1600s to escape religious persecution. Second, they made their fortune as merchants and financiers. These families attend the same schools and colleges, particularly Harvard, and usually marry each other. They have names such as Cabot, Adams, Coffin, Eliot, Emerson, Endicott, Forbes, Gardner, Holmes, Lawrence, Lowell, Otis, Parkman, Peabody, Phillips, Putnam, Quincy, Weld, Wigglesworth, and Winthrop. They are known for their philanthropy and infamous for having their own British-sounding dialect. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They like to think of their city as the Athens of America. They, above all, value culture and education. The term Boston Brahmins was coined by Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Image courtesy; Armstrong & Co There are only two ways of becoming a Boston Brahmin being born into such a family or marrying into it. Those belonging to Boston Brahmin families must be mentioned in the newspaper at birth, when getting married and at death. The Boston Brahmins have long been the subject of fascination for historians and authors. This is as much for their traditions as their place in American pop culture. However, not everyone is enamoured of them. Harriet Martineau, a sociologist who visited Boston in the 1830s, remarked that they were perhaps as aristocratic, vain, and vulgar a city, as described by its own first people, as any in the world. Martineau said their ideals and philosophies stood opposed to egalitarian ideals and inclusive citizenship. It must also be noted that the Boston Brahmins fought to keep immigrants out of America. They founded the Immigration Restriction League in 1894 which sought to bar the Irish and impose a literacy test for newcomers and the puritanical Ward Society. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Today, Boston Brahmins are usually found living in posh areas like Beacon Hill and adhering to their dress code which is known around the world as preppy. Image courtesy: NewtonCourt However, they also founded a number of fine institutions including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Peabody Essex and Isabella Stewart Gardner museums, WGBH, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Boston Athenaeum. Their influence began to fade with the arrival of Irish, Jewish and Italian immigrants. Today, they are usually found living in posh areas like Beacon Hill and adhering to the Boston Brahmin dress code which is known around the world as preppy. What do we know about the Cabots? Kristin is married to Andrew Cabot, the sixth-generation owner of spirits firm Privateer Rum. The firm was founded by his ancestor also named Andrew Cabot (1750-1791). Andrew was a merchant, rum distiller and successful American privateer during the American Revolution. The Cabots are an extremely high-profile Boston Brahmin family. According to the New York Post, a local poem regarding their status in society goes thus And this is good old Boston, the home of the bean and the cod, the Lowells talk only to Cabots, and the Cabots talk only to God". Their wealth initially came from the carbon black" industry, which is critical in tyre manufacturing. They were also involved in shipping and various other industries. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, they also made some of their money in the slave and opium trade. In 1972, the Cabot familys fortune was estimated at $200 million. Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot. Image: Astronomer That would be worth $15.4 billion today. The family has donated to Harvard University, MIT, Norwich University, and the Perkins School for the Blind. Kristin and her husband Andrew live in a $2.2 million house in Massachusetts. She joined Astronomer, a US data analytics firm, as Chief People Officer. She has two decades of experience in her field. She has also served as advisory board member for Privateer Rum since September 2020. Kristin was previously married to Kenneth C Thornby. She filed for divorce from Thornby in 2018. The marriage ended in 2022. Astronomer initially attempted damage control, saying in a statement, Although our visibility may have shifted dramatically overnight, our offerings and dedication to our clients remain unchanged". However, Byron resigned as CEO of Astronomer over the weekend, while Kristin has been put on leave. Byrons wife Megan Kerrigan removed his surname from her social media accounts including Facebook. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With rising child deaths and mass hunger gripping Gaza, aid groups and the UN accuse Israel of obstructing life-saving humanitarian supplies. As over 1,000 are killed trying to reach food, and hospitals run out of medicine, is the world witnessing a man-made famine unfold? Gaza is currently in the grip of a rapidly worsening hunger crisis, with multiple independent reports confirming that severe malnutrition and starvation are claiming lives particularly of children. Aid organisations, global leaders, and UN agencies are now issuing urgent appeals for immediate international action to halt the growing catastrophe, while also raising concerns about deliberate interference with humanitarian operations. Over the past few weeks, at least 21 children have reportedly died from starvation-related conditions, according to Mohammed Abu Salmiya, head of Gazas Al-Shifa Hospital. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These deaths occurred in several medical facilities across Gaza, including Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah and Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis. Gazas Health Ministry has also stated that more than 100 individuals, mostly children, have died while exhibiting signs of hunger and malnutrition though the exact cause of each death was not individually confirmed. The crisis, which escalated significantly following a full blockade imposed by Israel in March, has now reached what humanitarian experts are calling unprecedented levels. According to Carl Skau, deputy director of the World Food Program, the situation in Gaza City alone is the worst he has ever seen. What is contributing to the crisis in Gaza The blockade on Gaza, imposed by Israel following the collapse of ceasefire talks in March, cut off all humanitarian aid for nearly two months. Though some aid shipments resumed in late May, multiple aid organizations say the flow remains dangerously limited. Ross Smith, emergency director for the World Food Program, reported that nearly 100,000 women and children are currently suffering from severe acute malnutrition, and approximately one-third of Gazas entire population is going days without food. Gazas local food production was largely destroyed early in the war, and with over 2 million residents dependent almost entirely on external aid, the blockade has crippled their access to essential supplies. According to aid groups, food, clean water and medical equipment are being stockpiled near Gazas border but remain undelivered due to what they describe as Israeli-imposed delays and restrictions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Palestinians gather to receive food from a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, in Gaza City, July 22, 2025. File Image/Reuters In a joint statement released by 111 humanitarian organisations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council, and Refugees International, the groups called for immediate steps to end what they described as a siege resulting in mass starvation. The statement read: As the Israeli governments siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families. With supplies now totally depleted, humanitarian organisations are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes. The organizations asserted: The Government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death. Their demands include the lifting of all administrative barriers, the opening of all land crossings, an end to military-controlled aid distribution, and a return to a UN-led humanitarian response. They also urged states to consider measures such as halting arms transfers to Israel. What is the controversy over aid access Amid the worsening food crisis, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) a private organisation operating under Israeli military coordination has taken over large portions of the aid distribution system. Since its launch on May 26, GHF has distributed more than 1.4 million food packages. However, its presence has been highly controversial. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD GHF operates four humanitarian hubs across Gaza. The UN and leading aid groups have refused to cooperate with the organisation, citing fears that its design and operations prioritise Israeli military objectives and violate humanitarian norms. As a result, GHFs aid hubs have become flashpoints of violence and desperation. According to the UN human rights office, over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed while attempting to obtain food, with 766 of those deaths occurring near GHF sites, and an additional 288 reported near UN and other aid convoys. Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the UN human rights office, told AFP, As of July 21, we have recorded 1,054 people killed in Gaza while trying to get food; 766 of them were killed in the vicinity of GHF sites and 288 near UN and other humanitarian organisations aid convoys. Palestinians gather to receive food from a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, in Gaza City, July 22, 2025. File Image/Reuters Photos and testimonies from inside Gaza show children suffering from severe wasting, dehydration, and signs of acute anemia. Infants have reportedly died of hunger in recent weeks. On July 21, Gazas civil defence agency confirmed that three infants had died of severe malnutrition the previous week alone. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How Gaza is dealing with the situation Gazas already fragile healthcare system has been pushed to the point of collapse. Hospitals, overwhelmed by casualties from gunfire and bombing, are unable to cope with the added burden of patients suffering from hunger-related complications. Khalil al-Deqran, spokesperson for Gazas Health Ministry, reported that 600,000 people in the enclave are now showing symptoms of malnutrition, including 60,000 pregnant women. Abu Salmiya confirmed that new cases of hunger and malnutrition were being admitted every moment to Gazas few remaining functioning hospitals. He warned, We are heading towards alarming numbers of deaths due to the starvation inflicted on the people of Gaza. The UN human rights office added, Many people were arriving at Gazas hospitals in a state of severe exhaustion caused by a lack of food. Others are collapsing in the streets. Many more may be dying unreported These deaths and the horrendous physical and psychological suffering caused by hunger are the result of Israels interference with and militarization of humanitarian assistance. Is it a man-made famine in Gaza? Determining whether Gaza is experiencing famine is a technical process governed by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). According to IPC standards, an area qualifies as being in famine when at least two of three key criteria are met: At least 20 per cent of households face an extreme lack of food. A minimum of 30 per cent of children aged six months to five years are acutely malnourished. Two adults or four children per 10,000 people die daily due to starvation or related illness. While no official famine declaration has been issued for Gaza, experts note that the necessary data is difficult to collect due to Israeli restrictions on access. The IPC has stated that famine declarations often come too late only after a large number of deaths has already occurred. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Global calls for a ceasefire Growing international outrage has prompted action from global leaders. On Monday, the governments of 25 countries, including Canada, France, Australia, and UK, issued a joint statement demanding an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of Israeli hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access. They accused Israel of the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children. The statement also criticised the GHF distribution model, which is supported by the US under the Trump administration, but has not received endorsement from other governments or international relief organisations. People march along 42nd Street as they participate in a Stop Starving Gaza Now protest during the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in New York City, US, July 22, 2025. File Image/Reuters The US government announced $30 million in funding for GHF earlier this month and urged others to support it, stating that it was the only method of delivering aid without risk of Hamas diversion. However, GHF has not disclosed any information regarding its management or links to any government, despite repeated media inquiries. As the siege continues, conditions for Gazas population, particularly children, deteriorate daily. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies Jagdeep Dhankhar surprised many when he announced his resignation on Monday (July 21) as vice president and chairman of Rajya Sabha. The 74-year-old cited health as the reason for his departure. But political observers note that theres more to it his decision to accept the oppositions notice on Justice Varma could have factored into his exit. There is also speculation about his closeness to Congress and AAP leaders He was meant to serve until August 10, 2027. However, 74-year-old Jagdeep Dhankhar surprised one and all when the vice president of India announced his resignation at 9.25 pm on Monday, July 21 two years before his term ended. The now former vice president cited his health and medical advice as the reasons for his departure. However, not everyone, especially the opposition, is buying it. The Congress has said that theres more than meets the eye. In fact, Congress Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi told the Indian Express, The sudden resignation, and the cryptic tweets of PM Narendra Modi. It shows the unease in the relationship between the government and the Constitutional post of V-P. It seems like a game of one-upmanship. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Others in the opposition have also raised questions as to whether health was truly the reason for Dhankhars exit. So, what went wrong? Was politics behind the cause of Dhankhars resignation? Did he fall out with the government which he had been often accused of being biased to? What did Dhankhar say about his resignation? After presiding over the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Dhankhar made an unscheduled visit to Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, throwing the house staff into a tizzy. According to a Times of India report, Dhankhar arrived at 9 pm at the presidential residence and held a hastily-arranged meeting with President Droupadi Murmu. As required by law, he then tendered his resignation to her. At 9.25 pm, he then broke the news to all, releasing his resignation letter to the public, which read: To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution. He also wrote, As I leave this esteemed office, I am filled with pride in Bharats global rise and phenomenal achievements and hold unwavering confidence in her brilliant future. The move came as a surprise to many within political circles. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh even wrote on X, The sudden resignation of the vice president and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is as shocking as it is inexplicable. No doubt Mr Dhankar has to give topmost priority to his health. But clearly there is far more to his totally unexpected resignation than meets the eye. This is not the time for speculation though. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Differences with the government? However, those who observe Indian politics very closely suggest that there were signs of a chasm between Dhankhar and the ruling government. The biggest proof of a rupture between the two was Dhankhars decision on Monday in the Rajya Sabha. On Monday, the first day of the Monsoon session, Dhankhar accepted a notice by the opposition to remove High Court Justice Yashwant Varma at whose house bundles of cash were allegedly found. When told by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal that a similar motion was in the Lok Sabha, he directed the Secretary General to verify if a similar motion was moved in the Lower House. On Meghwals confirmation that a notice had also been submitted in the Lok Sabha, Dhankhar asked the Secretary General to take necessary steps in this direction. Dhankhar, then said that according to the Judges (Inquiry) Act, when notices of a motion are submitted on the same day in both the Houses of Parliament, a committee to examine the charges levelled against the judge would be constituted jointly by the Lok Sabha Speaker and the Rajya Sabha Chairman. Many speculate that Dhankhars decision to accept a motion to impeach Justice Varma didnt sit well with the BJP. File image/PTI Many speculate that Dhankhars decision didnt sit well with the BJP. As one source told NDTV that the move went against the governments plan to introduce the motion in the Lok Sabha. Moreover, the government was upset because they believed that Dhankhars stand diluted the governments leadership on the matter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Political observers also note that there were other signs that all wasnt well between Dhankhar and the government. For instance, BJPs leader in the Rajya Sabha JP Nadda strong intervention during the debate on Operation Sindoor. Nothing will go on record, only what I say will go on record, Nadda was heard saying while pointing towards Dhankhar. The Congress states that this was an insult of the Chairman, a claim dismissed by Nadda, who stated that his comments were directed at the opposition. Theres also the fact that JP Nadda and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju skipped Dhankhars 4.30 pm meeting of the business advisory committee, upsetting the vice president. However, Nadda has clarified, The Vice Presidents office was intimated about our inability to attend the meeting. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modis statement on Dhankhars exit seemed to be a give away. The PM wished the latter good health and thanked him for serving the country in various capacities. Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar with Leader of Opposition (Rajya Sabha) Mallikarjun Kharge during a meeting at Parliament House, in New Delhi. File image/PTI A closeness to AAP and Congress? But beyond these reasons, there are some speculating that Dhankhars meeting with Congress and AAP leaders could have also played a factor in his resignation. On July 15, the Vice Presidents Office posted a 44-second video of Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, paying Dhankhar a visit at the V-P Enclave. Moreover, a day before the start of the Monsoon Session, Dhankhar met Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal at his residence. Its important to note that Kejriwal is not an MP. This has raised many questions as until recently Dhankhar was often criticised by the opposition for being a government stooge and even faced an impeachment notice, threatening to remove him as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for allegedly being partisan to them. What awaits Dhankhar? Now, that the President has accepted his resignation and it has been notified, Dhankhar will leave the VP Enclave and move into a government bungalow sanctioned to him. He (Dhankhar) will be offered a Type VIII bungalow in Lutyens Delhi or another area, an official said. The Type VIII bungalow is usually allotted to senior Union ministers or presidents of national parties. With inputs from agencies Kerala has planned to euthanise seriously ill stray dogs as cases of attacks by the animals rise. The stray dog menace is plaguing India, with the Centre recently telling the Lok Sabha that over 37 lakh cases of dog bites were reported last year and suspected casualties from rabies stood at 54. Despite laws, why is the country unable to tackle the issue? Kerala has decided to euthanise diseased stray dogs amid rising cases of attacks on humans by the animals. The move has sparked a never-ending debate about the right ways to address the dog menace in the country. The problem of dog bites and rabies-related deaths has also reached Parliament. While there are laws to curb the stray dog population, India is struggling to tackle the menace. Lets take a closer look. Kerala to euthanise sick strays The Kerala government is planning to launch mobile sterilisation units in 152 blocks and allow the euthanasia of seriously ill animals, Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh said last week. The Kerala government has invoked Section 8 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Animal Husbandry Practices and Procedures) Rules, 2023, to justify its move. The provision empowers the Centre or state government to euthanise any sick animal that is mortally wounded or in a physical condition that it shall be cruel to keep it alive. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Only a registered veterinary practitioner can determine the dogs condition and consent has to be taken from the owner or custodian of the animal in writing. This comes as stray dogs, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, bit 1.65 lakh people in the first five months of 2025. As many as 17 casualties have been reported due to dog attacks in Kerala. Kerala has 2.89 lakh stray dogs and 8.36 lakh domesticated canines, Indian Express reported, citing the 2019 livestock census. Indias stray dog population India has a stray dog population of about 6.2 crore, according to the State of Pet Homelessness Index of India, 2023. At around 20 lakh, Uttar Pradesh had the largest population of stray dogs. India witnessed 1.6 crore cases of dog bites between 2019 and 2022. As many as 30 lakh cases were reported in 2023 and 21.95 lakh in 2024. The South Asian country reports an alarmingly high number of deaths due to stray dog bites. More than 55,000 people succumb to dog attacks globally every year. India accounts for 36 per cent of global rabies deaths and 65 per cent of the fatalities in South Asia, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO) data. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal this year found that three in every four animal bites were dog bites in India, with the country estimated to record over 5,700 human deaths each year due to rabies. Recently, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying SP Singh Baghel informed the Lok Sabha in a written reply that India saw a total of 37,17,336 dog bite cases in 2024, while 54 people were suspected to have died from rabies. On Tuesday (July 22), Congress MP Karti Chidambaram raised concerns about the stray dog menace, writing in a post on X: We cant ignore this any more! STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Why India is struggling to tackle stray dog menace Dogs are mans best friends. However, the unchecked growth in stray dog population has become a problem in India. Media reports are full of headlines of dogs attacking humans, especially children. Such incidents spread panic among parents who worry for their childrens safety. Some are forced to stop using public spaces amid fears of dog bites. In 2001, India introduced Animal Birth Control (ABC) rules to lay down guidelines to control the street dog population through humane measures such as sterilisation and vaccination. It mandated corporations to sterilise, not kill, street dogs. The rules were upgraded in 2023, including banning relocation of street dogs. A stray caught for sterilisation from a particular place has to be released at the same location after the sterilisation surgery. However, the programme has not been implemented effectively. Due to a crunch of funds or infrastructure, some cities have not rolled out the ABC rules. In other cases, there is a lack of municipal bodies and animal welfare organisations. Stray dogs sit on a deserted street, in New Delhi, India, September 9, 2023. File Photo/Reuters The stray dog question also ignites the war between animal lovers and gated societies and resident welfare associations (RWAs). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Animal lovers feed the stray dogs, while RWAs want them to be removed from the area. In every city, there is a very small minority that says, remove the dogs. Theres an equally small pro-animal lobby. And then we have the silent majority of 85 per cent, who just keep quiet, Chinny Krishna, founder of Blue Cross of India, told The Hindu in 2023. Some cases of botched surgeries, including those without anaesthesia, have made feeders wary. There is also little post-operative care for the strays despite guidelines. However, ferocious stray dogs are making it harder for people to go about their day without being concerned about attacks. I used to support feeding strays. But after my niece got chased on her cycle, I just want them gone, Rita, a college student from Keralas Thrissur, was quoted as saying by Mathrubhumi. Animal lovers argue that dogs get aggressive due to abuse, hunger, or territorial fear. I have had dogs all my life, and especially stray dogs have been my friends ever since I was a kid. Im very sure that stray dogs never bite out of the blue. They bite only out of fear, hunger, pain, or if theres a history of abuse theyve had to go through. These animals survive in very harsh conditions and constantly have to manage on the streets without proper shelter, food, water, or kindness from people. Many people mistreat these animals, and thats what makes them defensive. Theyll do anything to protect themselves and their territory, so whenever they feel threatened, they attack or growl, Ann George, a content writer from Ernakulam, told the Malayalam newspaper. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ: A Paw-fect Farewell to Ratan Tata: How the stray dogs of Mumbai have lost their best friend Whats the solution? The human-animal conflict can be managed. Experts say the effective implementation of ABC rules can check the surge in stray dog population. Public awareness about rabies, proper surgeries and care of dogs and putting an end to animal abuse could help in dealing with the problem. India can also look at the Netherlands, which managed the stray dog issue without killing the animals. Its Collect, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return policy, which began in the 1990s, has prevented the growth of feral dog populations. Today, the European country is free of stray dogs. India aims to eliminate rabies by 2030. But only sustained efforts, effective implementation of ABC rules and proper waste management to reduce food sources for dogs can help meet the goal. With inputs from agencies Prime Minister Narendra Modi is off for his fourth trip to the United Kingdom. The visit, which begins today (July 23), is expected to witness the signing of a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Modis discussions with British PM Keir Starmer will also touch upon a range of bilateral issues including security and technology PM Narendra Modi will hold talks with British PM Keir Starmer on a range of issues. File Photo/Reuters Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on an official visit to the United Kingdom on Wednesday (July 23). The trip is expected to witness the signing of a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK. The two sides had concluded negotiations for the trade agreement on May 6. During his trip, Modi will discuss various issues with British PM Keir Starmer concerning bilateral relations. From the UK, PM Modi will depart for Maldives for a state visit from July 25-26. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As the Indian leader begins his two-nation tour, heres whats on the agenda during the UK visit. Recent uptick in India-UK ties The relations between India and the UK have been on the rise in recent years. The Strategic Partnership between the two countries was elevated to Enhanced Partnership for the Future in 2010. The historical ties have got a boost since Brexit. In 2021, India and the UK upgraded their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They also adopted Roadmap 2030 to boost the relations in trade and investment, defence and security, and people-to-people contact and so on. In 2023, India and the UK established the 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue. Last year, they launched the Technology Security Initiative. In May, New Delhi and London concluded talks to reach a bilateral Free Trade Agreement deal, discussions for which first began in January 2022. Business ties have also enhanced between India and the UK, with goods trade surpassing $23 billion in 2024-25, Indian Express reported, citing data by Indian government sources. PM Modi in the UK PM Narendra Modi, who is on his fourth visit to the UK, will hold discussions with his British counterpart Keir Starmer on a range of bilateral issues. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in the official announcement. The Indian leader is also slated to meet King Charles III. PM Narendra Modi interacts with Britains Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the G20 summit at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in November 2024. File Photo/Reuters During the visit, PM Modi will review the state of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people to people ties, the MEA said. PM Modi is also likely to interact with business leaders in the UK. FTA, Khalistan & more A key part of PM Modis UK visit is the finalisation of the trade agreement between the two countries. India and the UK are expected to sign the FTA on July 24. We are working on legal scrubbing and other last-minute work that needs to be done, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told a press conference on Tuesday, ahead of PM Modis visit. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The India-UK FTA would eliminate duties on 99 per cent of Indian exports to Britain, including key sectors such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery and auto parts and engines. In return, India will reduce or remove tariffs on 90 per cent of British products, including medical devices and alcoholic beverages. According to British estimates, the India-UK FTA will enhance bilateral trade by 25.5 billion annually by 2040. PM Modi had announced the trade deal with the UK on May 6, calling it ambitious and mutually beneficial. The UK government has described the agreement as the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will accompany PM Modi to London for the signing of the India-UK FTA. The talks will reportedly feature matters related to security and technology. India is likely to raise the issue of a surge in Khalistani threat in the UK. The presence of Khalistani extremistswe have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. This should be a matter of concern for our partners as well, Misri told the media. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Modi had flagged the issue to Starmer on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada in June. The two leaders had also interacted during the G20 Summit in Brazil last year. The extradition of fugitives could also be among the top agendas during PM Modis UK visit. India is seeking the extradition of Lalit Modi, Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya, who are wanted for financial fraud, from the UK. There are a few questions related to fugitives from Indian law and justice in the UK. These have been a matter of discussion between both sides, and we continue to make the case for these fugitives to be rendered to India. Obviously, there is a legal process that such requests and such issues go through in the other country, and we continue to follow up very closely with our partners in the UK on these matters, the Indian foreign secretary said. With inputs from agencies STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Indian Air Force (IAF) is ready to bid adieu to its MiG-21 fighter jets after over 60 years of service. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark-1A aircraft will replace the ageing planes. Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the new version of Tejas is an indigenous 4.5 generation, multi-role combat aircraft powered by the American GE F404 engine India is retiring its MiG-21 fighter jets after 62 years of service. These aircraft are being replaced by the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark-1A. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to phase out MiG-21s by September this year and replace them with the indigenously developed newer Tejas fighter jets. Currently, there are only two MiG-21 squadrons 36 warplanes in operation, both at the Nal Air Base in Rajasthan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Heres a look at the Tejas fighter jets replacing Indias longest-serving fighter plane. MiG-21s to fly no more First inducted in 1963, MiG-21 is a single-engine, single-seater multi-role fighter/ground attack aircraft. Designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau (OKB) of the erstwhile Soviet Union, the fighter jet bolstered the Indian Air Force over the years. It was deployed during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War, 1999 Kargil War and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. MiG-21 was also used during the 2019 Balakot air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan. The then Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, piloting a MiG-21, had shot down a F-16 fighter jet of Pakistan during an aerial combat. An Indian Air Force MIG-21 aircraft Dornier flies during the inaugural day of the five-day Aero India 2019 airshow at the Yelahanka Air Force station, in Bangalore on February 20, 2019. File Photo/AFP While MiG-21 was the IAFs backbone, it came to be infamously known as widow-maker or the flying coffin due to several crashes over its decades of service. About 500 MiG-21s have crashed in the last 60 years, resulting in the death of 170 pilots, as per government data. Over 20 aircraft have crashed since 2010. Now, the IAF will phase out its ageing MiG-21s that remain in service. Indian Air Force to phase out the MiG-21 fighter jet by September this year. The squadrons operating the aircraft are currently in Nal air base in Rajasthan. The LCA Mark 1A aircraft would be replacing the MiG-21s in the IAF, a defence official was quoted as saying by ANI. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tejas Mk-1A to boost Indias defence The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A is an indigenous 4.5 generation, all-weather and multi-role combat aircraft. Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), these fighter jets are designed for deployment in high-threat aerial environments. The Tejas Mk-1A has several upgrades over the Tejas Mk-1 version, including Israel EL/M-2025 AESA Radar, Advanced Electronic Warfare Suite with a jammer, and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) capabilities. A homemade digital fly-by-wire flight control computer has been integrated into the Tejas jet. These fly-by-wire systems replace mechanical flight controls in an aircraft with an electronic interface. In a significant development towards Tejas Mk1A programme, the digital fly-by-wire flight control computer (DFCC) was integrated into prototype LSP7 and successfully flown on February 19, the defence ministry said earlier. The combat aircraft has about nine hard points to carry different types of weapons, including the Israeli-built Derby missiles and the indigenous ASTRA missile. The Tejas Mk1A will have an advanced electronic RADAR, warfare and communication systems, additional combat capability and improved maintenance features, according to HAL. The aircraft is capable of air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike missions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In February 2021, the Defence Ministry signed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with HAL for procuring 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets for the IAF. It said it is also in the process of procuring 97 more of these warplanes for around Rs 67,000 crore. However, the delay in the delivery of Tejas MK-1A has frustrated the air force. Even Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flagged the issue. In August 2021, HAL placed an order with Americas GE Aerospace for 99 F404 engines worth Rs 5,375 crore to power the Tejas Mk-1A. The first of these jet engines finally delivered to HAL in April, after a delay of over a year. The US company is running behind schedule to provide the engines for the Tejas fighter jets by two years. We are working with our partner HAL and suppliers to resolve constraints and deliver F404-IN20 engines for the LCA Mk1 programme, GE Aerospace said, as per Financial Express. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Twelve Tejas Mk-1A are expected to be rolled out this year. The US firm will deliver 10 engines by the end of 2025. It takes about a month to integrate the engines and do the tests. The process first involves building the fuselage, then getting the lobing and piping done, followed by combining the landing gear, a government official told Indian Express. After integrating the engines, the ground runs, including the high-speed runs, are carried out for all thorough checks, the official added. The IAF is counting on the advanced Tejas jets as the number of its fighter squadrons has plunged to 31 from an official sanctioned strength of 42. With inputs from agencies On Tuesday (July 22), thousands of people gathered for anti-government protests across Ukraine. This includes hundreds in the capital Kyiv as well as Lviv and Dnipro. The demonstrations started after Ukraines parliament passed a bill that gives the president more oversight over two anti-corruption bodies Ukrainians protest in the first wartime rally against a newly passed law, which curbs independence of anti-corruption institutions. Reuters Ukraine is up in arms. This time over actions of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This is the first anti-government protests in Ukraine since the start of the war in 2022. But what happened? Why are Ukrainians angry at Zelenskyy? Lets take a closer look: What happened? On Tuesday (July 22), thousands of people gathered for anti-government protests in Ukraine. This includes hundreds in Ukraines capital of Kyiv, as well as Lviv, and Dnipro. This came after Ukraines parliament, known as the Rada, passed a bill that gives the president and his inner circle more oversight over its anti-corruption bodies. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The bill gives Ukraines prosecutor general Ruslan Kravchenko control of two offices the National Anti-Corruption Bureau ( Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (Sap). Kravchenko, who is close to Zelenskyy, can now handpick prosecutors and even shut cases. The development comes days after Zelensky reshuffled his war-time Cabinet in what is being viewed as a bid to consolidate power. We chose Europe, not autocracy, one poster read. My father did not die for this, said another. Signs such as Veto the law, Protect the anti-corruption system, protect Ukraines future and We are against it were also seen. But Zelenskyy has refused to back down. The Ukrainian president signed the bill into law on Tuesday. Zelenskyy claimed both agencies would still function and added that they needed to be cleared of Russian influence. Many say the law undermines the independence and authority of these two offices. Reuters He claimed the agencies had been lying dormant. There is no rational explanation for why criminal proceedings worth billions have been hanging for years, he added. He said Kravchenko would ensure the inevitability of punishment for lawbreakers. Ukraines secret service on Monday held two Nabu officials on suspicion of links to Russia. They also searched other agency employees in allegations unrelated to the matter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What do critics say? Many say the law undermines the independence and authority of these two offices. Even the agencies themselves came out against it. In effect, if this bill becomes law, the head of Sapo will become a nominal figure, while Nabu will lose its independence and turn into a subdivision of the prosecutor generals office, the agencies said in a joint statement on Telegram before Zelenskyy signed the bill into law. They say this is a backward step for Ukraine, which has been riddled with corruption in the past. Kyiv depends highly on the flow of funds from the West to keep its fight with Russia going. Its allegations of corruption also stand in the way of it joining the European Union. They point out that Ukraines anti-corruption agencies were set up a decade ago under pressure from the West. This came after Russias invasion of Crimea in 2014 and was a prerequisite for Ukraine and the West moving closer together. The EUs enlargement commissioner, Marta Kos, called the vote a serious step back for Ukraine. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Independent bodies like NABU & SAPO are essential for Ukraines EU path. Rule of Law remains in the very center of EU accession negotiations, Kos wrote on X. The European Union is concerned about Ukraines recent actions with regard to its anti-corruption institutions, added European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier. Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a former comedian, came to office vowing victory over corruption. AP The EU provides significant financial assistance to Ukraine, conditional on progress in transparency, judicial reform, and democratic governance. Politicians, activists and diplomats accuse Ukraines leader of favouring loyalists and using wartime powers against critics. Corruption is a problem in any country, and it must always be fought," Ihor Lachenkov, a blogger and activist with 1.5 million followers, told NPR. Ukraine has far fewer resources than Russia in this war, he said. If we misuse them, or worse, allow them to end up in the pockets of thieves, our chances of victory diminish. All our resources must go toward the fight. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After all, Zelenskyy, a former comedian, came to office vowing victory over corruption. Those who swore to protect the laws and the Constitution have instead chosen to shield their inner circle, even at the expense of Ukrainian democracy, said veteran Oleh Symoroz. Symoroz, who lost both legs after being wounded in 2022, is in a wheelchair. Instead of setting an example of zero tolerance for corruption, the president is using his power to take control of criminal cases involving his allies, he added. Ex-Ukraine foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba called the development a bad day for Ukraine. The Ukrainian branch of Transparency International criticised parliaments decision, saying it undermines one of the most significant reforms since what Ukraine calls its Revolution of Dignity in 2014, and damages trust with international partners. The group had urged Zelenskyy to veto the law, warning that otherwise he would share responsibility with the Rada for dismantling Ukraines anti-corruption infrastructure. But the Ukraine government is unmoved. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Taras Kachka, Ukraines deputy prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration, has claimed that tackling corruption remains a priority. All core functions remain intact, he said of the agencies. With inputs from agencies The four men were identified as: Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, Zeeshan Ali, and Mohd Faiq. They were reportedly connected through a social media app and had Pakistan ties The arrest comes as a major development in Indias crackdown on terror activities. (Source: PTI) The Gujarat Polices Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Wednesday (July 23) nabbed four men, aged 20 to 25, suspected of ties to Al Qaeda and planning attacks on major targets across India. The arrests took place in Gujarat, Delhi, and Noida; with two suspects caught in Gujarat and one each in Delhi and Noida. The four men were identified as: Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, Zeeshan Ali, and Mohd Faiq. They were reportedly connected through a social media app. Authorities are digging deeper, and early investigations suggest the group had cross-border connections. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Al Qaeda strengthening presence in region A recent UN report warned that Al Qaeda is strengthening its regional arm, Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), to expand its reach in places like Jammu and Kashmir, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The 32nd report from the UN Security Councils Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, released this week, stated, one Member State assessed that Al-Qaeda is shaping AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent) to spread its operations into neighbouring Bangladesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Myanmar. The report estimates Al Qaeda has about 200 fighters in the region, led by emir Osama Mehmood. It also noted, The group uses Afghanistan as an ideological and logistical hub to mobilise and recruit new fighters while covertly rebuilding its external operations capability, even though its ability to carry out large-scale attacks is currently limited, while its intent remains strong. ATS DIG Sunil Joshi said they received information on June 10th that five accounts on Instagram were spreading ideologies of Al Qaeda in the country. DIG Joshi said: Gujarat ATS Dy SP Harsh Upadhyay received information on 10th June that there are 5 Instagram accounts which are propagating the ideologies of Al Qaeda in the country. They were sharing their content on a religious basis, against democracy, against India. The input was shared with senior officials. A technical team was formedTotal 4 accused were identified. Of them, Fardeen Shaikh is r/o Ahmedabad, Mohd Faiq is r/o Delhi, Zeeshan Ali is r/o Noida and Saifullah Qureshi is r/o Modasa. All these 4 were monitoredIt was found that not just their social media but also their physical movement is suspicious. A big team was formedAt the end of the operation, we were able to arrest all four suspects, the officer said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We checked a lot of data on their phone. They were disseminating a lot of content of Al Qaeda across IndiaA sword and Al Qaeda material were seized from Fardeen. They formed different groups on Instagram and promoted terrorist ideologies, they created content for the implementation of Shariat instead of democracy in India. Mohd Faiq was in contact with a few Pakistani Instagram accounts which provided him material for jihadi activitiesWe have invoked Sections 13, 18 , 38, 39 of UAPA and Sections 113, 152, 196 and 68 of BNS and registered FIR. Saifullah and Fardeen were produced before the Court today and they have sent to 14-day remand, he said. The remaining two accused will be produced before Court tomorrowWe have recovered documents on Operation Sindoor from Fardeen. Also, the posts they made at that time on Operation Sindoor were anti-Indian Govt, pro-Pakistani and instigating material on religious basis India has extended its ban on Pakistani aircraft entering Indian airspace till August 23, 2025, amid heightened border tensions and ongoing security concerns. The move comes alongside a fresh airspace alert ahead of a major Indian Air Force drill near the Pakistan border. India has extended its ban on Pakistani aircraft entering Indian airspace until August 23, 2025, citing security reasons. A fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued on Tuesday, regarding the decision. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, confirmed the extension on X, stating that it aligns with ongoing strategic and security considerations. The move comes after Pakistan recently prolonged its own ban on Indian flights through its airspace. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) announced that the restriction for Indian carriers will remain in effect until 5:19 am (IST) on August 24. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, India has also issued a NOTAM for a major Indian Air Force (IAF) exercise scheduled between July 23 and 25 in Rajasthan, along the IndiaPakistan border. The drill will span regions from Barmer to Jodhpur. The recent NOTAM restricting civilian flights comes in the wake of increased tensions along the IndiaPakistan border, following Pakistans drone and missile intrusions during Operation Sindoor. The Pakistani attacks had targeted Rajasthans border districts Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Sri Ganganagar. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists. A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is typically issued to clear specific airspace of civilian aircraft during military operations. Such notices were also issued during previous periods of heightened conflict with Pakistan to prevent any commercial aircraft from entering potential conflict zones a precaution to avoid civilian casualties during aerial engagements. This visit by the DG of Israels Ministry of Defence marks a pivotal step in India-Israel defence relations and reinforces both sides commitment to enhance their strategic partnership, the statement added. India and Israel on Wednesday concurred to work towards developing an institutional framework for further deepening their defence ties. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held a bilateral meeting with Director General, Israels Ministry of Defence, Major General (Res) Amir Baram in New Delhi during which the two sides agreed to further strengthen the bilateral defence cooperation with a long-term perspective, officials said. They concurred to work towards developing an institutional framework for further deepening of defence ties, the Indian defence ministry said in a statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Israel DG condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and conveyed full support for Indias fight against terrorism, it said. Singh reiterated Indias zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, condemned the October 7, 2023 terror attacks on Israel and called for the release of all hostages. The two sides also reviewed the progress of the ongoing defence collaboration activities since the last Joint Working Group meeting held in India in July 2024. This visit by the DG of Israels Ministry of Defence marks a pivotal step in India-Israel defence relations and reinforces both sides commitment to enhance their strategic partnership, the statement added. The Special Task Force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh Police has arrested a man for running a fake embassy of Westarctica in Ghaziabad. The STF said that the man, identified as Harsh Vardhan, had been pretending to be a diplomat and operated vehicles with fake diplomatic number plates. Two of the four cars with fake diplomatic numberplates recovered from a fake embassy of Westarctica busted by the Uttar Pradesh Police on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Ghaziabad, UP, India. (Photo: ANI screengrab) The Uttar Pradesh Police has arrested a man for running a fake embassy in the states Ghaziabad district and pretending to be an ambassador. The UP Polices Special Task Force (STF) on Tuesday cracked down on the fake embassy of Grand Duchy of Westarctica in Ghaziabads Kavi Nagar area. The STF arrested a man identified as Harsh Vardhan for running the fake embassy, falsely posing as a diplomat, and operating cars with fake diplomatic number plates. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Westarctica is a micronation that claims sovereignty over Marie Byrd Land in western Antarctica. No country or international organisation like the United Nations (UN) has recognised Westarctica as a sovereign state. Micronations are self-declared entities that claim to be sovereign states and have their own flag, constitution, currencies, and leaders, and usually comprise small territories like a farmhouse. However, they do not have any international recognition. STORY | UP STF busts fake embassy in Ghaziabad, man running 'West Arctica' consulate held READ: https://t.co/MCOoecq1bZ VIDEO: (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/o53UtZt1pw Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2025 The STF has found that Harsh used edited photos showing him with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu to fool people into believing that he was indeed a diplomat, according to CNN-News 18. Other than Westarctica, Harsh claimed to be a diplomat of micronations Seborga, Polynivia, and Ladonia, as per the report. Fake embassy, fake passports, fake ambassador and a real fraudster Harsh used to run the fake embassy of Westarctica from the address of KB-35 Kavi Nagar, Ghaziabad, according to Dainik Jagran. The STF found multiple vehicles from his possession that had fake blue numberplates such numberplates are only used by diplomatic vehicles accredited by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Notably, one cannot open an embassy, high commission, or function as a diplomat without being accredited by the Union government. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The STF also recovered Rs 44,70,000 in cash, currency of various countries, blue numberplates of 20 countries, and four cars with blue numberplates, among other things, from his possession, according to Jagran. The STF cracked down on Harsh after receiving information that people were being duped by an embassy functioning in Kavi Nagar of Ghaziabad, as per the newspaper. The STF cracked down on the fake embassy after confirming with central authorities that it was indeed a fake embassy and Harsh was a fraud, the report said. As per the report, Harsh had been taking money from people with the promise of giving them jobs abroad and had even got people fake diplomatic passports of Seborga. August 5, 2025, marks one year since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India, following a wave of violent unrest across Bangladesh that left widespread destruction and countless lives lost. Many in the country had hoped that her departure would bring a return to order and stability. Instead, the situation has deteriorated sharply, with law and order collapsing on multiple fronts. A stark example of this is the recent violence in Gopalganj a traditional stronghold of the Awami League (AL) and home to a significant Hindu minority, comprising nearly 40 per cent of the population of the area. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The National Citizen Party (NCP), which is believed to enjoy open backing of the ruling dispensation of Muhammad Yunus, in active collaboration with Jammat-e-Islami (JeI) and other communally fanatical parties, resorted to unprovoked violence in attacking the Awami League activists in Gopalganj in an ostensible bid to weaken the AL bastion and demoralise the Hindu population, keeping aloft the communal frenzy. Several people were killed by the security forces, and at the time of writing the column, the city is filled with tension and uneasy calm notwithstanding the imposition of stringent prohibitory orders and security forces resorting to indiscriminate firing resulting in deaths and injuries, and the paramilitary forces and the army are seen in clear visuals protecting the NCP and Jammat activists in the hold of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to save them lest their crime be exposed. This spurt of violence in Gopalganj signals that the law and order machinery is still far from satisfactory. Also, according to a prominent Dhaka Daily, Prothom Alo (July 17), the commemorative march marking the July 2024 uprising was planned well in advance by the NCP and its affiliates, and the authorities were obviously indifferent to any wake-up calls or straws in the wind. This also shows complete failure of the intelligence apparatus of the government. Interestingly, the advisor in charge of law and order, Lieutenant General (Retired) Jahangir Alam Chowdhary, is not only an army veteran but also headed the then Bangladesh Rifles (BDR), now renamed as Bangladesh Border Guards (BGB). The ineptitude on the part of the general speaks of a complete lack of oversight in reining in the disturbing law and exercising order and control over the national intelligence with far-reaching security implications. Now, two things are glaring and cant be ignored. One, the Hindus will be more vulnerable in Gopalganj in particular, and the cascading effects of the ensuing violence are likely to reverberate in other Hindu pockets in Bangladesh, where they could possibly be the target of violence, with their places of worship and immovable property more vulnerable to the communal elements. Two, with the tacit support of the interim regime under Muhammad Yunus, anti-AL forces, including the NCP and the Jammat, in all probability, will be emboldened to take on the AL cadres in order to further decimate them. And three, by implication, it is largely believed that the AL and Sheikh Hasina, perceived to be India-inclined, anti-India rhetoric will escalate further amongst the vernacular media and other quarters of the political and social entities. After dwelling upon the Gopalganj violent clashes, which are still fresh in minds, exposing the governments abject failure to contain public order and lawlessness, it would be imperative to examine what all happened within the year post-Hasinas departure from Dhaka. Subsequent to Hasinas departure, complete anarchy prevailed all over Bangladesh, indicating there was no government control or semblance of any law and order. The communal elements, robbers, and criminals had a field day for several months, looting and vandalising at their free will. There were hundreds of prisoners, including hardened criminals, who escaped from the prison, and not only that, there were outrageous lootings of the armouries, broad daylight dacoities, and murders. In addition, the communal elements attacked various minority groups, including Ahmadiyas, Shias, Sufis, etc, and their places of worship were openly desecrated and vandalised. Hindu places of worship were targeted in particular, and many temples were attacked, and their idols were defiled and destroyed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While stock taking of the major violent happenings in Bangladesh during the post-Hasina period, it would also be pertinent to highlight the lawlessness when the unbridled violent mob brought down the residence of the father of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, looting all the pieces kept in the residence-turned-museum and destroying precious possessions reminiscent of the bloody freedom struggle of 1971. Analytically, this shows the mindset of a large number of ungrateful people who shamelessly tampered with history, destroying all evidence of the Liberation War. Sadly, the government, the military, and various arms of police forces were mute witnesses to the destruction, leading the people to believe that there was indeed a government complicity in turning a blind eye when the perpetrators carried out this mindless violent act. Under the circumstances, it would also appear desirable to touch upon some other occurrences in the aftermath of Hasinas departure from the political scene, which had a profound negative impact on the social, political, and cultural fabric of Bangladesh. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The most disturbing development was the present regimes steady proximity towards Pakistan, which once unleashed such highhandedness with immense ferocity by committing genocide in 1971 without so far tendering any apology for the large cases of violation of Bengali women by Pakistani occupation forces and the grotesque inhuman acts on the Bengalis before the liberation. While it is politically alright for Bangladesh to befriend Pakistan, amnesia should not be to the extent of conveniently forgetting atrocities once so viciously committed. To illustrate further, it would perhaps be politically unwise to observe Pakistans founder Muhammad Ali Jinnahs 76th death anniversary being held in the National Press Club, Dhaka, in the presence of the Pakistani Deputy High Commissioner. It may be recapitulated that Jinnah, who was anti-Bengali and anti-Bangla, always opposed the use of the Bengali language in place of Urdu. In sum, involving the Pakistani High Commission and remembering Jinnah is indeed a departure from the past and an endorsement of Jinnahs two-nation theory and anti-Bangla ideology. This has also hit hard the secular forces within Bangladesh, the progressives and liberals as well as the freedom fighters and pro-liberation forces. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In another development post Hasina, there were demands for renaming one of the hostels of Dhaka University to Allama Muhammad Iqbal, who was chiefly responsible for supporting the idea of a separate Pakistan. This trend also merits a close watch as to whether the intelligentsia of Bangladesh is moving towards a direction with Pakistani leanings. In a different vein, it would also appear that there is a subtle move to remove the powerful presence of Tagore amongst the Bangladeshi minds, as he had influenced Bengalis in a big way in the fields of music, dance, literature, drama, etc. A mob vandalised the historic Rabindra Kacharibari in Bangladeshs Sirajganj district, which has an ancestral mansion of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, and attacked the auditorium on the mansion premises and assaulted its director in the month of June this year. Following the attack, authorities in Bangladesh shut down the site and formed a probe panel to investigate the incident. It could, however, be an eyewash. It is an irony that this act of vandalism drew more criticism in India than in Bangladesh. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, another unfortunate incident has come to the fore, which speaks poorly of the Yunus administration and its vision to keep things under control. The old heritage ancestral property belonging to film icon Satyajit Rays paternal grandfather, Upendra Kishore Ray Chowdhury, was demolished in the district of Mymensingh in Bangladesh very recently to make way for a new semi-concrete structure for Shishu Academy. This bizarre step has naturally hurt the sentiments of hundreds and thousands of Satyajit Rays fans all over India, leading the governments of India and West Bengal to protest and stop the demolition. Such an outrageous act on the part of the Bangladesh authorities also shows that the Yunus-led administration in Bangladesh is completely insensitive to the sentiments of heritage and ancestral property of Upendra Kishore Ray Chowdhury, who was a noted writer and academic, plus a prominent and progressive social reformer. The strong appeal by the Indian side has forced the government of Bangladesh to rethink the demolition, as it would again expose the present Bangladesh regime in a dim light. Such a glaring amiss, which was perhaps unthinkable during the previous regime, and, therefore, it is important to highlight this while auditing the performance of the present regime in the last nearly one year. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In an ultimate assessment, it is clear in the preceding year, the present regime has failed to meet peoples expectations in the maintenance of law and order, safety and security of the minorities and their places of worship and properties, controlling the communal and fundamentalist forces, or even checking the economic downturn. The government, according to the analysts, has also failed miserably to improve ties with India, with no signs of any improvement. The government-controlled media continues to be hostile and biased amid a sharp rise in human rights abuses as charged by many. It is likely that these factors will play a dominant part in the upcoming elections scheduled some time next year. In fact, a large segment of the population is so miserable and disillusioned that they are silently wanting Hasinas rule back again, perhaps for an orderly and tranquil regime with their dignity intact. The writer is a retired IPS officer, adviser NatStrat, Bangladesh watcher and a security analyst. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On July 18, Wickremesinghe issued an emergency order to remove demonstrators who were occupying the presidential secretariats entry gate People around the country staged mass protests as they waited in lengthy lines for fuel and other necessities due to a severe foreign exchange shortage. Reuters A three-member Supreme Court bench in Sri Lanka concluded on Wednesday that declaring a state of emergency in July 2022 to stop months of public demonstrations violated basic rights. Three petitions were filed by civil society organisations in August 2022, alleging that then-acting President Ranil Wickremesinghes decision to declare a state of emergency on July 18, 2022, violated constitutional rights. In April 2022, the island nation announced its first sovereign default since its independence from Britain in 1948. The unexpected financial crisis prompted the then-president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to resign from his position in 2022 amid civil unrest. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD People around the country staged mass protests as they waited in lengthy lines for fuel and other necessities due to a severe foreign exchange shortage. On July 9, Rajapaksa fled the country and later resigned, allowing Wickremesinghe, the then-prime minister, to become acting president. On July 18, Wickremesinghe issued an emergency order to remove demonstrators who were occupying the presidential secretariats entry gate. The petitioners stated that the proclamation lacked sufficient reasons and was intended to stifle dissent. The court found 2-1 in favour of the petitioners, ordering the state to pay legal fees. PM Modi in the Maldives: India continues to play a key development role in the Maldives through major infrastructure projects, from bridges to renewable energy Despite India and the Maldives undergoing a period of political recalibration under President Mohamed Muizzu, the long-standing development partnership between the two nations remains defined by key infrastructure projects that have transformed the archipelagos urban connectivity. Over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, India has funded and implemented a string of high-impact projects, ranging from bridges and roads to ports and renewable energy systems under its broader Neighbourhood First policy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Here are seven of the biggest infrastructure projects India has built or is building in the Maldives: Greater Male connectivity project Indias largest development project in the Maldives, the $500 million Greater Male Connectivity Project is a game-changer for the island nation. Funded through a $100 million grant and $400 million line of credit from India, the 6.74 km bridge and causeway network will connect the capital Male with three neighbouring islandsVillingili, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi, enhancing connectivity for nearly half of the Maldivian population. The project is being executed by Indias Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. Hanimaadhoo international airport expansion With a financial package of $136 million under Indias Line of Credit, the expansion of Hanimaadhoo International Airport in northern Maldives is aimed at boosting regional tourism and trade. The project includes a new 2.46 km runway and passenger terminal capable of handling 1.3 million passengers annually. Addu roads and reclamation project India has committed $200 million to revamp infrastructure in Addu City, the second-largest urban centre in the Maldives. The project includes road development and land reclamation works which are vital for economic development and climate resilience in the southernmost atoll. Gulhifalhu port development India is supporting the first phase of the Gulhifalhu Port project, designed to become a key transhipment and commercial hub for the Maldives. It aims to decongest Males existing port and strengthen the logistics infrastructure of the capital region. Water and sanitation projects across 34 islands With a $100 million Indian grant, water and sanitation infrastructure is being developed on 34 remote islands across the Maldives. These projects are essential for public health and sustainable living in one of the worlds most climate-vulnerable nations. Social housing units in Hulhumale India has funded the construction of 2,000 affordable housing units in Hulhumale under an $80 million Line of Credit. Executed by NBCC (India) Ltd, the project aims to ease housing shortages and improve urban living conditions in the rapidly expanding capital region. Renewable energy projects across the Maldives In line with the Maldives climate goals, India has helped install rooftop solar panels in government buildings, street lighting systems and hybrid renewable energy projects across various islands. India also assisted with a project to set up solar-battery-diesel hybrid systems on 11 islands. Indias enduring development role Despite recent diplomatic friction over the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and a tilt towards China by the current Maldivian administration, these projects stand as a testament to Indias long-term developmental footprint in the Maldives. Indian-funded infrastructure not only supports the Maldivian economy but also reinforces regional stability and shared prosperity. July 24, 2025, 05:35:10 (IST) Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Three African nations represent 84% of the continent's Mpox cases, official says A significant concentration of the Mpox outbreak is occurring in Africa, where just three countries represent 84% of all cases on the continent, Premium Times says in a report. This development places considerable strain on the public health systems and national budgets of the affected nations, potentially diverting funds from other key development sectors and impacting investor confidence. The situation is a critical test for regional bodies like the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to coordinate an effective response and secure equitable access to vaccines. The outbreak also reinforces the strategic importance of ongoing initiatives across the continent to bolster local vaccine manufacturing and enhance health sovereignty, drawing on lessons from previous crises such as COVID-19 and Ebola. Modi is set to be greeted by cheering groups of community leaders, students and parliamentarians gathered in anticipation on the outskirts of London Diaspora groups in the UK have geared up for Prime Minister Narendra Modis arrival in the UK on Wednesday evening for a historic visit that centres around the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and refresh of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Modi is set to be greeted by cheering groups of community leaders, students and parliamentarians gathered in anticipation on the outskirts of London. They expressed excitement around the FTA that is expected to be signed during the bilateral discussions between PM Modi and British PM Keir Starmer on Thursday. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During my meeting with Prime Minister Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, we will have the opportunity to further enhance our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and job creation in both countries, Modi said in his departure statement earlier on Wednesday. He highlighted the significant progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in recent years and noted that the collaboration between the two countries spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties. During his visit, Modi will also have an audience with King Charles III at one of his royal estates. Its a very significant visit because a historical agreement is being done between India and the UK, said Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) diaspora group. Its a great achievement for both governments, and especially for the Indian diaspora, which is excited to see the Prime Minister here after so many years. Hes again here for a very short visit, but at least we get a chance to greet him, he said. This week marks Modis fourth visit to the UK, following visits in 2015, 2018 and 2021 for the COP26 Summit in Scotland. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thursday will mark his third bilateral meeting with Starmer, following meetings on the sidelines of the G20 Summit last year and the G7 Summit in Canada last month. Prime Minister Modi has infused a new sense of optimism, energy and vibration to this relationship. There is so much happening between our countries, said Lord Rami Ranger, prominent British Indian entrepreneur and House of Lords peer. India has leapfrogged in the last 10 years. Under Prime Minister Modis leadership, we are now equal. This Free Trade Agreement will be good for the world, good for Britain because Indias economy is growing 6-7 per cent and the British economy is not going as fast, but now we can grow together, he said. The negotiations for the FTA, which aims to double bilateral trade to USD 120 billion by 2030, were completed on May 6 and announced by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer in a phone call at the time. The formal sign off on Thursday follows Cabinet approval in India and will then proceed for a lengthy ratification process by the British Parliament. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From London, Modi will travel to the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu as the Guest of Honour of the island nations independence celebrations. Multiple families of victims of the Air India 171 crash in the United Kingdom have received wrong bodies of their deceased relatives, according to a report. Members of Indian Army's engineering arm prepare to remove the wreckage of an Air India aircraft, bound for London's Gatwick Airport, which crashed during take-off from an airport in Ahmedabad, India. Reuters Multiple British families of Air India 171 crash have received wrong bodies, according to a report. On June 12, the London-bound AI 171 flight crashed shortly after take-off in Gujarats Ahmedabad. Out of the 260 deceased, 52 were British nationals. Their remains were identified by genetic testing and dental records and transported to the United Kingdom. The Daily Mail has now reported that the identification and transportation of bodies was botched up in multiple cases. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These errors came to light after Inner West London coroner Dr Fiona Wilcox sought to verify the remains of British nationals transported from India by matching their DNA with samples provided by the families, as per the newspaper. Multiple families receive wrong bodies, remains: Report In at least two cases, families of deceased got wrong bodies and remains, according to The Mail. In one case, relatives had to abandon funeral plans after they learnt that the coffin they received contained the wrong body. In another case, remains of multiple persons were wrongly put together in a coffin and given to a family. In the second case, the remains were separated and the family went ahead with the funerals with the remains that were identified with their relative. The newspaper reported that there are fears that there could be more such cases where families could have been handed over wrong bodies or remains. It said that an enquiry was taking place in the matter and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was expected to raise the matter with Indian PM Narendra Modi, who embarked on a visit to the UK on Wednesday. After the publication of the story, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that it was working with British authorities in the matter. We have seen the report and have been working closely with the UK side from the moment these concerns and issues were brought to our attention. In the wake of the tragic crash, the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements. All mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased. We are continuing to work with the UK authorities on addressing any concerns related to this issue, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Victims families flag lack of transparency The Mail reported that one relative criticised the lack of transparency and oversight in the identification and handling of remains and said that there were calls for a British-run ID unit to be flown in to Ahmedabad. Our loved ones were British citizens. They deserved better in life. They certainly deserved better in death, the relative said. The families told the newspaper that they did not see their deceased relatives, but had to rely entirely on the labelling provided by Indian authorities. On their part, the Indian authorities took DNA samples and also referred to dental records to determine which body or remains belonged to whom. Nobody looked at the remains. We werent allowed to. They just said this is your mother or father and gave us a paper label with an ID number on it. We had to take their word for it. Its horrific that this could have happened, but what could anyone do? Altaf Taju from Blackburn, whose London-based parents were killed along with their son-on-law Altafhusen Patel, told the newspaper. The protesting students demanded accurate publication of identities of the dead and injured, compensation for families and an immediate halt to the use of outdated and unsafe training aircraft by the Bangladesh air force Students shout slogans during a protest near the site of the Monday crash of a Bangladesh air force training jet into a school, demanding accountability, compensation for victims' families and the halt of training flights, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. AP Hundreds of students protested Tuesday near the site of the crash of a Bangladesh air force training jet into a school in the nations capital, demanding accountability, compensation for victims families and the halt of training flights. The ongoing unrest over Mondays crash shut down traffic in parts of Dhaka, a city still recovering from last years student uprising that ousted the prime minister as the interim government seeks to restore order and organize elections next year. Some students entered the countrys administrative headquarters and were dispersed with tear gas and stun grenades. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On Wednesday, the death toll from the crash rose to 32, including at least 29 students, two teachers who died from burns, and the pilot on his first solo flight. Officials said 171 people, mostly students at Milestone School and College and many with burns, were rescued as the jet crashed into a two-story building. On Tuesday, the death toll was 31 but another person died overnight, authorities said. As Bangladesh declared Tuesday a day of national mourning, the military launched an investigation into the crash in Dhakas densely populated Uttara neighborhood. The civil aviation authority was not directly involved. High Court judges on Tuesday asked the government to form a technical committee to investigate as well. The protesting students demanded accurate publication of identities of the dead and injured, compensation for families and an immediate halt to the use of outdated and unsafe training aircraft by the Bangladesh air force. They accused security officials of beating them and manhandling teachers on Monday. The exact number of people killed and injured must be made public, an ex-student of the school, who refused to provide his name, told The Associated Press at the scene. The military and the office of Bangladeshs interim leader Muhammad Yunus said there was nothing to hide regarding casualties and they were coordinating with all concerned. There was no response to the other allegations. The students became furious after two senior government officials Law Adviser Asif Nazrul and Education Adviser C.R. Abrar arrived at the scene, forcing them to take cover for several hours inside the campus before security forces escorted them out. Other groups of students forced them to go back. In the evening, after nine hours, most students and the confined advisers left campus amid heavy security. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Elsewhere in Dhaka, students broke through security barricades and entered the Bangladesh Secretariat complex, the countrys administrative headquarters. Security officials used stun grenades and tear gas to disperse them. Jamuna TV said about 80 students were injured after security officials charged them with batons. The students demanded the resignation of Abrar, who they said delayed announcing that public exams were being canceled during Tuesdays mourning. Abrar didnt publicly address the allegation. The chaos spread in nearby areas. Haunted by the tragedy Yesterday, when the plane was approaching, the sound was so loud you cant even imagine it felt like eardrums were about to burst. Within five seconds, the plane crashed right in front of me here, said Smriti, a student who only gave one name. Suddenly, I saw flames rising fiercely upward from the building, the 11th grader said. When I got here, I saw some children lying with their limbs spread out, some of their lifeless bodies scattered around. Can you save them? Tell me, will they ever be able to return to their parents arms again? she asked. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On Tuesday, 78 people, mostly students, remained hospitalized, said Sayeedur Rahman, a special assistant to Yunus. Twenty deaths were reported initially, and seven people died of injuries overnight, authorities said. Another four deaths were reported later Monday, the military said. Maherin Chowdhury, a teacher who rescued more than 20 students from the burning school, died from severe burns, her colleague Tanzina Tanu said Tuesday. Doctors said late Monday that the condition of about two dozen injured remained critical. A blood donation camp was opened at a specialized burn hospital where most were being treated. Twenty bodies have been handed over to their families, with some possibly needing DNA matching after they were charred beyond recognition. India was working to send a team of medical experts, including burn specialists and nurses, to Dhaka, the countrys Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. A team of burn-specialist doctors and nurses with necessary medical support are scheduled to visit Dhaka shortly to treat the victims. They will make an assessment of the condition of patients with recommendation for further treatment and specialized care in India as necessary. Additional medical teams may also follow depending on their preliminary assessment and treatment, it said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India has had chilly relations with Bangladesh since last years student uprising. The plane reported a malfunction The Chinese-made F-7 BGI training aircraft experienced a technical malfunction moments after takeoff from the A.K. Khandaker air force base at 1:06 p.m. Monday, according to a military statement. The pilot, Flight Lt. Mohammed Toukir Islam, made every effort to divert the aircraft away from densely populated areas toward a more sparsely inhabited location, the military said. It was the pilots first solo flight as he was completing his training. It was unclear if he managed to eject before the jet hit the building. The school, about an 11-kilometer (7-mile) drive from the air force base, is in a densely populated area near a metro station with numerous shops and homes. It is the deadliest plane crash in the Bangladeshi capital in recent memory. In 2008, another F-7 training jet crashed outside Dhaka, killing its pilot, who had ejected after he discovered a technical problem. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Chinese AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group Co. Ltd, manufactured the F-7 BGI and it is the final and most advanced variant in the Chengdu J-7/F-7 aircraft family, according to the company website. Media reports say Bangladesh ordered 16 aircraft in 2011, and they were delivered by 2013. It is the license-built version of the Soviet MiG-21. Former President Barack Obamas office has dismissed Donald Trumps claim that Obama committed treason during the 2016 election, calling the allegation baseless and an attempt to distract from the facts Former US President Barack Obama and US President-elect Donald Trump speak ahead of the state funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral on January 9, 2025 in Washington, DC, US. File Image/Pool via Reuters Former President Barack Obamas office has forcefully rejected Donald Trumps accusation that Obama committed treason during the 2016 election, calling the claim bizarre, ridiculous, and a weak attempt at distraction. In a rare statement issued on Tuesday, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said, Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Rodenbush added, These bizarre allegations are baseless and a clear effort to divert attention. Nothing in the recently released document contradicts the well-established conclusion that Russia sought to influence the 2016 election but did not alter any votes. These findings were reaffirmed in a 2020 bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee report led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Trump had earlier accused Obama of treason, claimingwithout evidencethat the former president led a scheme to falsely tie him to Russia and sabotage his 2016 campaign. The remarks came after Trump referenced comments made by his intelligence chief, Tulsi Gabbard, who on Friday suggested that Obama-era officials could face prosecution over their handling of intelligence assessments on Russian interference. She declassified documents and said the information she was releasing showed a treasonous conspiracy in 2016 by top Obama administration officials to undermine Trump. Its there, hes guilty. This was treason, Trump said on Tuesday. They tried to steal the election, they tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobodys ever imagined, even in other countries. Amid geopolitical tensions and Communist Partys policies, Amazon has become the latest Western technology giant to scale back operations in China. Lately, IBM, Microsoft, and Apple, among others, have reduced their activities in China and have relocated operations. With the closure of its Shanghai artificial intelligence (AI) lab, Amazon has become the latest Western technology giant to reduce its footprint in China. The Financial Times has reported that Amazon has shut down Amazon Web Services (AWS) AI lab at Shanghai and has dissolved the entire team. In the wake of geopolitical tensions with the United States and repressive policies of the Communist Party, Western tech giants have sought to reduce their activities in China in recent years and relocate many of their operations, including manufacturing of devices. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While the number of roles affected is not exactly known, the newspaper reported sources as saying that Amazon has more than 10,000 employees in China and the AWS at its peak had more than 1,000 staffers in the country. Amazon spokesperson Brad Glasser said, Weve made the difficult business decision to eliminate some roles across particular teams in AWS. These decisions are necessary as we continue to invest, hire, and optimise resources. Previously, analysts had said that Trump's policies could mean reduced inbound investment, mergers, and acquisitions for China as a result of tariffs and geopolitical tensions. Amazon scales back in China over geopolitical tensions Wang Minjie, a scientist at Amazon Web Services (AWS) Shanghai lab, said on social media that his team was being dissolved due to strategic adjustments amid US-China tensions, according to FT. Over the past six years, Ive had the privilege of leading the team through the golden era of foreign research labs [in China], Wang further said. Amazon is the latest Western tech giant to cut back its operations and presence in China in recent years. Last year, IBM shut down its research and development (R&D) division in China because of regulatory issues and declining revenue. The closure affected around 1,000 jobs. Last year, Microsoft also asked hundreds of employees to relocate from China. In recent years, Apple and Dell have moved a large chunk of their manufacturing outside of China. Last year, around 15 per cent of all Apple iPhones were made in India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ: Amid Trump's tariff war, US law firms shut shop in China with bleak investment outlook There are multiple reasons for such exits, ranging from the US-China tensions to Chinas policies. Firstly, As a result of Western export controls, it has become difficult for China-based researchers to collaborate with peers outside of the country. Export controls have also sought to block Chinas access to most advanced hardware. Secondly, geopolitical tensions and lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, have also led companies to reduce their dependence on China and move at least manufacturing elsewhere. This diversification of manufacturing and supply chains has been dubbed as China-plus one strategy. An 83-year-old woman from Norfolk died of sepsis after her pet dog licked an open leg wound. The infection, caused by the bacteria pasteurella multocida, highlights the hidden health risks of close contact with pets, especially for vulnerable individuals An 83-year-old woman from Attleborough, Norfolk, died of sepsis after a domestic dog licked her leg wound, according to News18. On June 29, June Baxter, who her family described as very frail yet independent and strong-willed, hurt her leg while using a commode at home. Caitlan Allin, her granddaughter and primary caregiver, arrived after the incident, when her pet dog licked the open wound. The injury was treated at Baxters house by paramedics, who repositioned damaged skin and dressed the wound, according to the Norfolk Coroners Court. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, her health worsened the next day and she was sent to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, where blood tests indicated an illness caused by pasteurella multocida, a bacteria often found in the mouths of domestic animals such as dogs and cats. Despite medical care, Baxter died in the hospital on July 7 from acute sepsis. She also had underlying medical ailments, such as liver, kidney, and heart problems, which made her recuperation even more difficult, the court heard. Coroner Johanna Thompson declared her death accidental, citing an illness caused by a domestic dog lick. This case highlights the possible dangers of coming into contact with animal faeces, especially for people who already have health issues. The European Union and the United States are heading towards a trade deal that would result in a broad tariff of 15% applying to EU goods imported into the United States. The European Union and the United States are nearing a trade agreement that would introduce 15 per cent tariffs on European imports, mirroring a deal struck earlier this week between US President Donald Trump and Japan, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday. While negotiations continue, the EU is also preparing a countermeasure, a potential 93 billion euro ($109 billion) package of retaliatory tariffs with rates reaching up to 30 per cent should talks fail to produce a deal before the August 1 deadline, the report said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Neither the White House nor a European Union spokesperson responded to Reuters requests for comment. Reuters also said it could not independently confirm the FT report. Earlier on Wednesday, the European Commission reiterated that its priority remains finding a negotiated settlement with Washington to avoid the 30 per cent tariffs President Trump has threatened to impose on EU goods beginning August 1. In 2024, US imports of vehicles and auto parts from Japan exceeded $55 billion, while the figure from the EU stood at 47.3 billion euros ($55.45 billion). By contrast, US-made cars have a limited share in both the EU and Japanese markets. German Chancellor Merz greeted French President Macron in Berlin and stated that the two European leaders will debate trade policy, on which we are hearing in these minutes that there could possibly be decisions' German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron hold talks in the library of the Villa Borsig, guesthouse of the German Foreign Ministry, in Berlin. AFP German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope Wednesday that EU and US negotiators gathering in Washington are making progress in their efforts to end the transatlantic trade dispute. Merz greeted French President Emmanuel Macron in Berlin and stated that the two European leaders will debate trade policy, on which we are hearing in these minutes that there could possibly be decisions. US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 30% tariff on European products if the transatlantic partners do not reach an agreement by August 1. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The EU has attempted to resolve trade issues with Washington through discussions, while developing precise measures for reprisal if necessary. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday that Washington was making progress on the tariff negotiations, with talks planned between the blocs top trade negotiator and his American counterpart. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovics talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Wednesday afternoon came after Brussels said it was readying to pull the trigger on more than $100 billion in counter-tariffs should negotiations fail. Bessent, who is among the top US officials engaging with its key trading partners, sounded an optimistic note on Bloomberg Television. Talks are going better than they had been, he said. I think that we are making good progress with the EU. An Indian student in Adelaide, Australia, has been hospitalised with serious injuries after a violent assault that is being investigated as a possible racist attack. The incident has sparked outrage in the Indian community and renewed concerns over the safety of international students. An Indian international student has been hospitalised with serious injuries after a brutal assault in Adelaide, Australia an incident now under investigation as a possible racially motivated attack. The case has sparked outrage within the Indian community and reignited concerns over the safety of international students in Australia. Brutal attack in the city centre The victim, 23-year-old Charanpreet Singh, was attacked on the night of July 19 near Kintore Avenue, a central area in Adelaide, while he and his wife had stopped to view the Illuminate light installations. According to reports, a group of five men pulled up beside Singhs car, demanded he move his vehicle, and began hurling racial abuse, allegedly shouting, F** off, Indian* before launching a violent assault. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Singh was punched through the car window, dragged out, and beaten with both fists and weapons, including metal knuckles. I tried to fight back, but they beat me until I was unconscious, Singh later told 9News from his hospital bed. He was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital, where doctors found brain trauma, facial fractures, a broken nose, and severe eye injuries, requiring surgery and an overnight stay. Police launch investigation South Australia Police responded shortly after 9:20 pm and found Singh badly injured. A 20-year-old man from Enfield was arrested the next day and charged with assault causing harm, but was later released on bail. Authorities are still searching for the four remaining attackers. Police have recovered CCTV footage from the area, which is well-monitored due to its proximity to the University of Adelaide and cultural landmarks. A video of the assault has also gone viral on social media, further fuelling public anger. From his hospital bed, Singh said the attack left him shaken not just physically, but emotionally. Things like this make you feel like going back You can change your body, but you cant change the colour of your skin, he said. Strong condemnation The incident has drawn condemnation from South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, who called it deeply disturbing. Any evidence of a racial attack is completely unwelcome in our state. Its not who we are, and not where the majority of our community stands, the Premier said. The Indian community, both in Australia and back home, has called for stricter action and better protections for international students facing racial discrimination and violence abroad. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to a report, the killings have brought the total number of victims of violence in the Arab sector to 136 in 2025 A series of separate incidents on Tuesday night resulted in the murder of three people in Israel. The killings have brought the total number of victims of violence in the Arab sector to 136 in 2025. According to a report by Israel National News, in Jaffa, a 51-year-old man was fatally shot near a local cafe. Paramedics from Magen David Adom (MDA) who arrived at the scene confirmed the man had gunshot wounds and pronounced him dead. Yissachar Weiss, an MDA paramedic, said that the victim was found unconscious with penetrating injuries and that the wounds were fatal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Another incident involved a woman, approximately 40 years old, who was discovered shot dead in a wadi near Arara Banegev. MDA personnel also confirmed her death at the scene. Police have detained four suspects for questioning, including the womans son, brother and two other relatives. The suspected motive is an internal family feud, as per police reports noted by Israel National News. In Lod, a man in his 30s was shot dead inside his car. MDA teams found him in critical condition and declared him dead shortly thereafter. MDA EMT Mendy Amitai described the scene as utter chaos, noting that the victim was unconscious, without a pulse and not breathing, with penetrative wounds to his body. Amitai added that the injuries were too severe, leading to the declaration of his death at the scene. Police have launched investigations into the separate incidents. The rise in violence in the Arab sector continues to be a pressing issue, with the recent murders adding to the already high number of victims this year. The two sides discussed measures aimed at advancing effective border management and sustaining peace and tranquillity, building on understandings reached during the 23rd round of the Special Representatives (SR) Talks held in 2024 A man walks inside a conference room used for meetings between military commanders of China and India, at the Indian side of the Indo-China border at Bumla, in the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, November 11, 2009. Reuters File India and China held the 34th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on Border Affairs (WMCC) in New Delhi on Wednesday (July 23), in a fresh bid to sustain momentum on de-escalation efforts along the Line of Actual Control. The Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (East Asia) Gourangalal Das, while the Chinese side was headed by Hong Liang, Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to a statement released by Indias Ministry of External Affairs, both sides reviewed the situation in the border areas and expressed satisfaction with the general prevalence of peace and tranquillity, noting progress toward gradual normalisation of bilateral ties. Push for phased disengagement and SR-level talks The two sides discussed measures aimed at advancing effective border management and sustaining peace and tranquillity, building on understandings reached during the 23rd round of the Special Representatives (SR) Talks held in Beijing in March 2024. That round saw National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi agree to a phased withdrawal at remaining friction points like Depsang and Demchok. The WMCC talks also prepared the ground for the 24th round of the SR Talks on the India-China boundary question, which is expected to be held in India later this year. The SR mechanism functions as a higher-level political dialogue to resolve the boundary dispute. Meeting follows two high-level ministerial visits The timing of the meeting adds to its significance, coming after two important bilateral exchanges this year. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar travelled to Beijing in January 2025, followed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singhs engagement with his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers meeting in April. India and China have maintained multiple layers of engagement to navigate ongoing tensions in eastern Ladakh. While large-scale disengagement has been achieved at some points, talks remain deadlocked at several locations. With inputs from agencies India has strongly hit back at Pakistans FM Ishaq Dar at the United Nation as Islamabad of promoting terrorism while preaching peace in the international forum. In a sharp rebuttal, India described Pakistan as a serial borrower from the IMF and a nation steeped in fanaticism and terrorism." India on Tuesday sharply took a dig at Pakistan while responding to its Foreign Minister Ishaq Dars remarks at the United Nations Security Council, calling out Islamabads duplicity and long-standing support for terrorism. In a scathing remark, India said Pakistan is steeped in fanaticism and terrorism and a serial borrower from the IMF. Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, drew a sharp contrast between the two neighbours, stating, On one hand there is India a mature democracy, a surging economy, a pluralistic and inclusive society. At the other extreme is Pakistan, steeped in fanaticism and terrorism and a serial borrower from the IMF. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD #IndiaAtUN PR @AmbHarishP delivered s statement at the @UN Security Council High Level Open Debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes. @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/A3jp6ojkJy India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) July 22, 2025 Zero tolerance for terrorism must be universal Taking a direct jab at Pakistan, often described as a global exporter of terror, Harish underlined the importance of universally upholding core principles as the UNSC debates international peace and security. Foremost among these, he said, is the commitment to zero tolerance for terrorism. It ill behoves the member of the Council to offer homilies while indulging in practices that are unacceptable to the international community, Harish said, without naming Pakistan directly, but leaving little doubt about the target. Presiding over the UNSC Open Debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes, Pakistans Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar opened the session by calling for urgent global cooperation through multilateral frameworks. In an ironic twist, as a country long accused of harbouring terrorism and using it as a foreign policy tool, Pakistan sponsored a resolution, adopted by the Security Council, urging nations to resolve disputes through peaceful means such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration, judicial settlement, or other non-violent tools. Todays debate is both timely and critical, Dar said. Multilateralism is not merely a diplomatic convenience; it is the need of the hour. The peaceful settlement of disputes is not just a principleit is the lifeline of global stability. Dar repeats propaganda on water issue Using the global platform to once again rake up the Indus water treaty issues, Dar accused India of unilaterally suspending the water-sharing agreement, saying that it affects millions in Pakistan. It is most unfortunate and regrettable that India has chosen to illegally and unilaterally hold this treaty in abeyance on baseless grounds, with the intent of choking water flow to 240 million Pakistanis who depend on it for their livelihood and survival, he said. Pahalgam terror attack by Pak-backed terrorists Dars comments comes months after 22 April brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, where Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent people, mostly tourists. India will start issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals again from July 24, the Indian Embassy in Beijing said on Wednesday. This is the first time in five years such visas are being granted since the 2020 Galwan clashes. (File) Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Reuters In a major development, India will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals starting July 24 the first time in five years since the 2020 Galwan clashes, the Indian Embassy in Beijing announced on Wednesday. This move marks a significant step toward normalising ties, as tourist visas had been suspended following the deadly border clashes and subsequent standoff in eastern Ladakh. Earlier this year, both countries had agreed in principle to restart direct flights, resume visa issuance, and allow Indian pilgrims to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, signaling a cautious thaw in IndiaChina relations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The announcement came after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri undertook a two-day visit to Beijing, reflecting renewed diplomatic engagement between the two Asian powers. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit followed the understanding reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during their meeting in Kazan last October. Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and agreed on several people-centric initiatives to stabilise and improve ties. The MEA also noted that both sides agreed to hold an early meeting of the IndiaChina Expert Level Mechanism to restart cooperation on hydrological data sharing and other matters related to trans-border rivers. Jaishankar-Xi meet during SCO summit In a continuation of high-level engagement, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with President Xi Jinping in Beijing earlier this month as part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers delegation. During his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Jaishankar emphasised the need for a long-term, steady approach to resolving outstanding issues, especially those related to the border and the restoration of people-to-people ties. Its incumbent on both sides to address border issues, normalise exchanges, and avoid trade restrictions, Jaishankar posted on X following the meeting. He added that mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity are key to placing the relationship on a positive trajectory. 2020 Galwan clashes and long military stand-off In June 2020, long-standing tensions between India and China flared into a deadly confrontation in the Galwan Valley along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The clash erupted leading to a brutal hand-to-hand fight. Though no firearms were used, soldiers engaged in savage combat using stones, iron rods, and nail-studded clubs. The confrontation resulted in the death of 20 Indian soldiers, including a commanding officer. China later confirmed four fatalities on its side, though independent assessments suggested the actual number may have been significantly higher. The incident marked the first combat fatalities along the India-China border since 1975 and triggered one of the most serious military standoffs between the two nations in decades. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Indias harsh response to the clashes In response, India rapidly strengthened its military posture across eastern Ladakh, deploying additional troops to key locations including Galwan, Pangong Tso, Gogra, and the Shyok Valley to deter further incursions and secure strategic positions. Simultaneously, the government accelerated infrastructure development under the IndoChina Border Roads initiative, with the DarbukShyokDBO (DSDBO) road becoming a logistical lifeline for troop mobility and supply. On the diplomatic front, India and China engaged in multiple rounds of high-level talksranging from corps-commander level meetings to foreign office consultations. These discussions resulted in a phased disengagement at several friction points by mid-2021, although full resolution remained elusive. The diplomatic process continued through 2024, reflecting the complex nature of the standoff. Parallel to military and diplomatic actions, India also launched economic countermeasures. It banned over 300 Chinese mobile apps, including TikTok, and imposed tighter scrutiny on Chinese investments, aiming to reduce economic dependency and safeguard national security. The Galwan clash thus reshaped Indias strategic approachmilitarily, diplomatically, and economicallyin its dealings with China. The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the (nuclear) sites, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said. He was in New York for meetings at the UN. Iran on Wednesday (July 23) confirmed that it had agreed to allow a team from the International Atomic Energy Agency to visit the country in the coming weeks. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the team from the United Nations nuclear watchdog would discuss relations between IAEA and Tehran. The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the (nuclear) sites, Gharibabadi said. He was in New York for meetings at the UN. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD IAEA has said that its chief Rafael Grossi is actively engaging with all the parties involved in the Iran nuclear issue." Concerns after Israel, US strikes IAEA officials have stressed the urgency of restoring access to Iranian nuclear facilities after last months air strikes by Israel and the United States, which targeted key components of Irans nuclear infrastructure. Those attacks, aimed at impeding Tehrans ability to develop a nuclear weapon, have severely disrupted the IAEAs ability to verify the status of enriched uranium stocks and other critical components of Irans nuclear programme. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities remain peaceful and that no effort is underway to develop atomic weapons. Gharibabadi said Irans Atomic Energy Organization is still assessing damage from the attacks. We do not know what has happened there because of the risks of the radiation, he said. Our Atomic Energy Organization is assessing, actually, the damages to the nuclear installations, and we are waiting to receive their report. Diplomatic concerns have mounted over the fate of some 400 kg of highly enriched uranium, with the IAEA yet to receive an update from Iran regarding the materials status. The watchdog has deemed full resumption of inspections essential to rebuilding international confidence. Iran reluctant to share data with IAEA Gharibabadi claimed the IAEA has not formally inquired about the uranium and added, we cannot say anything now because we do not have any valid and credible report from (Irans) Atomic Energy Organization. The comment shows Tehrans continued reluctance to share data in the absence of what it deems a secure inspection environment. In June, the IAEA sparked Iranian ire by stating on the eve of the Israeli strikes that Tehran was in violation of non-proliferation treaty commitments, complicating the possibility of progress in any renewed talks over Irans nuclear programme. Looking ahead, Gharibabadi said he would meet counterparts from Britain, France and Germany in Istanbul on Friday. These countries, along with China and Russia, remain signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal from which the United States withdrew in 2018. The agreement traded sanctions relief for restrictions on Irans atomic activities. Alongside this track, Iran and the US have engaged in five rounds of indirect negotiations mediated by Oman since the beginning of the year. With inputs from agencies The stakes are higher now with growing numbers of malnutrition deaths in the Palestinian territory casting a spotlight Israels refusal to allow in more aid Israeli troops patrol the border fence with Syria near the Druze village of Majdal Shams in the Israel-annexed Golan Heights. AFP Mediators have been shuttling between Israeli and Hamas negotiators since July 6 as they scramble to end nearly two years of war in Gaza where fears of mass starvation are growing. Through 21 months of fighting both sides have clung to long-held positions preventing two short-lived truces being converted into a lasting ceasefire. The stakes are higher now with growing numbers of malnutrition deaths in the Palestinian territory casting a spotlight Israels refusal to allow in more aid. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With pressure for a breakthrough mounting, Washington said top envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Europe this week for talks on a Gaza ceasefire and aid corridor. US officials said he might head on to the Middle East. As the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates drastically, are the two sides closer to reaching an agreement? What do warring parties want? After more than two weeks of back and forth, efforts by mediators Qatar, Egypt and the United States are at a standstill. The proposal on the table involves a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 10 living hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas insists any agreement must include guarantees for a lasting end to the war. Israel rejects any such guarantees, insisting that Hamas must give up its capacity to fight or govern as a prerequisite for peace. The cold hard truth is that for domestic political considerations neither (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu nor Hamas leaders in Gaza have an interest in seeing a swift outcome and a comprehensive ceasefire, said Karim Bitar, a lecturer in Middle Eastern studies at Pariss Sciences Po university. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Both would have to answer serious questions from their own constituencies, he added. Is the war affecting the talks? While Israeli officials have said they are open to compromise, troops have expanded their operations this week into areas of Gaza that had largely been spared any ground offensives since the war began in October 2023. Israeli media have reported that Hamas negotiators in Doha have been unable to communicate directly with the military leadership in Gaza to approve Israeli pullback maps. Logistical issues compound existing rifts within the militant group. There are technical aspects which are quite difficult to overcome because there is a growing disconnect between Hamas leadership in Gaza and the negotiators in Doha, Bitar said. For Andreas Krieg, a Middle East analyst at Kings College London, the talks are technically progressing, but in practical terms, they are approaching a stalemate. What is on the table now is effectively just another prisoner swap deal, not a real ceasefire deal, he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Hamas faces a dilemma: it is under pressure to secure some Israeli concessions but on the other hand, it faces an increasingly desperate humanitarian situation. The leadership may be debating how far it can compromise without appearing to surrender politically, he said. Will starvation spur a deal? More than two million people in Gaza are facing severe food shortages, with more than 100 NGOs warning of mass starvation. On Tuesday, the head of Gazas largest hospital said 21 children died of malnutrition and starvation in three days. Humanitarian pressure is mounting fast, Krieg said, with Hamas facing rising desperation among the population, which could force it to accept an interim deal to alleviate suffering. But even if Hamas makes concessions, Israel has the upper hand and there can be no lasting ceasefire unless it wants one. Unless the United States and Qatar increase significantly their pressure on Israel, I am afraid that this round of negotiations will fail like the previous rounds, Bitar said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Israels President Isaac Herzog visited the Gaza strip on Wednesday and told soldiers that there were intensive negotiations about returning the hostages in Gaza, adding that he hopes that they will soon hear good news. Palestinian children wait for a meal at a charity kitchen in the Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on July 22, 2025. Image- AFP President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday dismissed claims that Israel is to blame for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, asserting that the country is operating within the bounds of international law in its ongoing war with Hamas. We are acting here according to international law. We are providing humanitarian aid according to international law, Herzog told troops during a visit to the Palestinian territory his first time there since the war began in October 2023, according to a presidency statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He blamed militant group Hamas and its people for trying to sabotage this aid in a bid to obstruct Israels military campaign. Israels Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the military and Defense Ministry agency overseeing humanitarian aid to Gaza, stated that approximately 950 truckloads of supplies are currently awaiting pickup by the United Nations on the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom and Zikim border crossings. WATCH: 950 trucks worth of aid, currently waiting in Gazafor international organizations to pick up and distribute to Gazan civilians. This is after Israel facilitated the aid entry into Gaza. pic.twitter.com/aQTR7Sryhs LTC Nadav Shoshani (@LTC_Shoshani) July 22, 2025 An official from COGAT noted that the aid stockpiled at the crossings is sufficient to meet Gazas food requirements for about two and a half weeks. At this stage, we have not observed signs of starvation, the official said, but we recognise the need for immediate action to stabilise the humanitarian conditions. He acknowledged that while food might not be reaching all areas effectively, this was a problem that needed addressing. His remarks followed what he described as a thorough evaluation of the humanitarian situation in the enclave. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The official added that COGAT had been engaged in discussions with UN representatives to coordinate the distribution of the growing volumes of aid that have entered Gaza but remain undelivered. According to him, while there are no barriers preventing aid from reaching the border crossings and entering the territory, the primary challenge lies in its distribution. Although an agreement was reached to deliver between 70 and 80 truckloads on Tuesday, only 30 were actually moved into Gaza, he said. The UN, however, has consistently argued that COGAT has denied its requests for permission to collect and distribute the aid, also citing the hazardous and complicated situation on the ground as a major obstacle to effective distribution. With inputs from agencies Despite his business-as-usual demeanour, Ishiba is under increasing pressure to resign after the LDP and junior coalition partner Komeito lost their majority in Sundays election in Japans 248-member upper house, shattering his grip on power Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba promised on Wednesday to remain in power to supervise the implementation of a new Japan-US tariff pact, amid media speculation and rising calls for his resignation following his governing partys historic setback. At party headquarters, Ishiba met with senior members of his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), as well as former Prime Ministers Taro Aso, Fumio Kishida, and Yoshihide Suga. He later told reporters that they did not discuss his resignation or a new party leadership contest, but rather the election results, voter dissatisfaction, and the urgent need to avoid party discord. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Despite his business-as-usual demeanour, Ishiba is under increasing pressure to resign after the LDP and junior coalition partner Komeito lost their majority in Sundays election in Japans 248-member upper house, the smaller and less powerful of Japans two chambers of parliament, shattering his grip on power. It followed a defeat in the more powerful lower house in October, and his coalition now lacks a majority in both chambers of parliament, making it much more difficult for his administration to adopt programs and exacerbating Japans political instability. Despite calls from within and beyond his party for his resignation, Ishiba says he plans to remain on to address important issues, such as tariff discussions with the United States, in order to avoid creating a political vacuum. Ishiba keeps saying he is staying on. What was the publics verdict in the election all about? said Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the surging Democratic Party for the People, or DPP. At the LDP, a group of younger lawmakers led by Yasutaka Nakasone started a petition drive seeking Ishibas early resignation and renewal of party leadership. We all have a sense of crisis and think the election results were ultimatum from the voters, he said. Japanese media reported that Ishiba is expected to soon announce plans to step down in August. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The conservative Yomiuri newspaper said in an extra edition on Wednesday that Ishiba had decided to announce his resignation by the end of July after receiving a detailed report from his chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, on the impact of the US tariffs on the Japanese economy, paving the way for a new party leader. Ishiba denied the report and said that he wants to focus on the US trade deal, which covers more than 4,000 goods affecting many Japanese producers and industries. He welcomed the new agreement, which places tariffs at 15% on Japanese cars and other goods imported into the US from Japan, down from the initial 25%. Still, local media are already speculating about possible successors. Among them are ultraconservative former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, who lost to Ishiba in September. Another conservative ex-minister, Takayuki Kobayashi, and Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former popular Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, are also seen as potential challengers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Sundays election, voters frustrated with price increases exceeding the pace of wage hikes, especially younger people who have long felt ignored by the ruling governments focus on senior voters, rapidly turned to the emerging conservative DPP and right-wing populist Sanseito party. None of the opposition parties have shown interest in forming a full-fledged alliance with the governing coalition, but they have said they are open to cooperating on policy. People expressed mixed reaction to Ishiba, as his days seem to be numbered. Kentaro Nakamura, 53, said that he thought its time for Ishiba to go, because he lacked consistency and did poorly in the election. The (election) result was so bad and I thought it would not be appropriate for him to stay on, Nakamura said. I thought it was just a matter of time. But Isamu Kawana, a Tokyo resident in his 70s, was more sympathetic and said if it wasnt Ishiba who was elected prime minister last year, the result would have been the same. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I think he got the short end of the stick, Kawana said. The drills aim to test the navys readiness for unconventional operations, the use of long-range weapons, and advanced tech like unmanned systems, Russia said A view shows Russian warships during major naval drills, which are conducted by the Russian Navy in the Pacific and Arctic oceans and in the Baltic and Caspian seas, at an unknown location, in this still image taken from video released July 23. Source: Reuters Russia kicked off large-scale naval exercises dubbed July Storm on Wednesday (July 23), involving over 150 ships and 15,000 personnel across the Pacific and Arctic oceans, as well as the Baltic and Caspian seas, according to the defence ministry. The drills aim to test the Navys readiness for unconventional operations, the use of long-range weapons, and advanced tech like unmanned systems, Moscow said. The ministry explained, At sea, the crews of the ships will practice deployment to combat areas, conducting anti-submarine operations, defending areas of deployment and economic activity. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Theyll also focus on repelling attacks by air attack weapons, unmanned boats and enemy drones, ensuring the safety of navigation, striking enemy targets and naval groups. The exercise includes over 120 aircraft and 10 coastal missile systems, led by Navy chief Admiral Alexander Moiseev. Despite ranking as the worlds third most powerful navy after China and the US, Russias fleet has faced significant losses in the Ukraine conflict. Russias gains on battlefield In Ukraine, Russian forces have captured Pokrovsk, a critical logistical hub, after over a year of fierce fighting, marking a major blow to Kyiv. Russian troops have entered the city, a key flashpoint on the front line, and are conducting search-and-destroy missions, though they havent fully entrenched, according to The Kyiv Independent. If Russia solidifies control, it would be a significant victory for the Armed Forces of Russia (AFR) and raise serious concerns about Kyivs ability to hold ground in Donetsk Oblast amid Russias intensifying summer offensive. The Ukrainian monitoring group DeepState and frontline troops, cited by The Kyiv Independent, reported that Russian forces broke through from the Zvirove direction, exploiting weak infantry positions and inaccurate situational reporting. This triggered an urgent Ukrainian response to contain the breach and prevent the situation from spiralling into disaster, as per DeepState. While its unclear how firmly Russian forces are established in Pokrovsk, their entry after a year of effort spells trouble for Kyiv. The situation echoes last years fall of Avdiivka, when US funding for Ukraine dried up, leaving its skies vulnerable to a massive Russian barrage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Mwangi said that he and his allies are terrorists hunters and they are hunting Ruto Kenyan human rights activist Boniface Mwangi talks to his wife Njeri Mwangi from a steel caged dock after he was charged with unlawful possession of ammunition over his alleged role in deadly anti-government protests in June, at the Kahawa Law Courts in Kiambu County, Kenya July 21, 2025. Reuters After court appearance, outspoken Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has rejected the governments attempt to connect him to anti-government protests, calling it a weak and desperate attempt to silence dissent. According to a report by Africanews, Mwangi appeared in court on Monday, facing charges of unlawful possession of ammunition, a case that stems from his alleged involvement in youth-led demonstrations that have taken place across the country for months. The charge sheet accuses Mwangi of illegally possessing three tear gas canisters. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Njanja Maina, Mwangis lawyer, has firmly denied the allegations, dismissing them as fabricated. The Kenya Human Rights Commission has also denounced the case, calling it a trumped-up accusation. Shortly after the hearing, Mwangi was released on bond. Outside the court, he delivered a defiant message to journalists, calling President William Ruto a real terrorist. Mwangi stated, Because we are terrorising Rutos heart and Ruto knows that hes going home, because Ruto is a real terrorist. So we guys are not terrorists, were terrorists hunters. Were hunting Ruto to leave power because hes killing us and were tired of being killed by our government. According to Africanews, the arrest followed a raid on Mwangis home over the weekend. During the raid, his wife, Njeri Mwangi, said that security agents seized electronic devices and spoke of terrorism and arson. Many had feared Mwangi would be charged with terrorism. In court, Mwangi distanced himself from organising the recent protests, giving credit to young Kenyans the Gen Z movement for leading the charge. These kids are saying we want real change and thats why theyre protesting. They are so brave that when they leave their homes, they even write obituaries, Mwangi said. So this route tying to personalize the struggle for a better Kenya, about personality, it is very weak. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The protests initially began in mid-2024 after President Ruto proposed a controversial set of tax increases. Since then, demonstrators have broadened their demands to include action against corruption and what they describe as the regimes broken promises to ordinary Kenyans. As activists prepare for fresh demonstrations on August 8 dubbed nane-nane Mwangi has made it clear that the fight for a more accountable government is far from over, even as the state seeks to silence its critics through legal pressure. The Stargate Project launched with presidential fanfare and billion-dollar pledges, but six months later, it has no data centres and little to show for its promise (File) An aerial view shows construction underway on a Project Stargate AI infrastructure site, a collaboration between three large tech companies OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle - in Abilene, Texas, US, April 23, 2025. Reuters In January this year, the Stargate Project emerged with a sweeping promise: a $500 billion investment in AI infrastructure intended to cement US dominance in artificial intelligence, create hundreds of thousands of jobs and serve national security. Spearheaded by OpenAI, SoftBank, Oracle and MGXlaunched with great fanfare at the White House alongside President Donald Trumpthe initiative was positioned as the most ambitious tech infrastructure plan in American history. But six months on, the ambitious programme has yet to secure a single major data centre deal, according to The Wall Street Journal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Early pledges, delayed action At its inception, Stargate projected a rapid deployment of $100 billion and plans for 10 gigawatts of computing capacity spread across multiple massive data centres. However, insiders now say those goals have been drastically scaled back, The Wall Street Journal report said. The new, much-reduced target involves the construction of a single, smaller facilitypossibly in Ohio by the end of 2025. The delay stems from disagreements between the projects lead partners, OpenAI and SoftBank, especially over where to locate the data centres and how to implement them. Conflicting visions between partners While both companies publicly maintain a united front, tensions reportedly simmer behind the scenes. Sam Altman of OpenAI and Masayoshi Son of SoftBank have diverged on key elements, including site selection and whether to rely on SoftBank-backed SB Energy properties. OpenAI has pressed ahead on other infrastructure deals independently, most notably a separate arrangement with Oracle that bypasses SoftBank altogether. That deal alone involves building 4.5 gigawatts of data centre capacity, triple what Stargate was expected to deliver in the near term. OpenAI finds alternative routes Even as Stargate stalls, OpenAI has not slowed its pursuit of infrastructure expansion. Its partnership with Oracle includes massive power and compute capabilities spread across US locations, reportedly consuming as much energy as two Hoover Dams. Coupled with earlier agreements like one with CoreWeave, OpenAI has already nearly matched the 5 gigawatts of capacity initially tied to Stargates $100 billion rollout. This suggests OpenAI is building its AI infrastructure with or without Stargates formal structure in place. SoftBanks high stakes gamble Masayoshi Son remains committed to the vision, despite Stargates stumbling start. According to The Wall Street Journal, the Japanese billionaire say he is still bullish on OpenAI and even interested in increasing his investment. Earlier this year, SoftBank committed a record-setting $30 billion to OpenAIa move that pushed the company to sell assets and take on additional debt. For Son, the Stargate project is not just a financial venture but a strategic attempt to finally cement SoftBanks relevance in the AI revolution after missing early bets on major players like OpenAI and facing high profile failures in other sectors. Elon Musk recently weighed in on the projects faltering momentum. Responding to social media speculation about the delays, Musk remarked, They simply dont, referencing earlier claims that SoftBank lacks the necessary funds. Musk had previously suggested that SoftBank had secured less than $10 billion of the $500 billion requireda claim that reignited debate over the projects financial grounding. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Public posturing versus private realities In a recent SoftBank event, both Son and Altman made a public appearance via video, reaffirming their commitment to building 10 gigawatts of AI data centres. Altman described it as a wonderful partnership, and both parties issued a joint statement promising that they were moving at hyperscale and speed. However, such optimistic messaging contrasts with the reality that, as of mid-2025, Stargate has not finalised even one major data centre agreement. From acquiring land and energy to sourcing high-performance chips and managing financing, the process is slow and capital-intensive. Stargates own teams are said to be evaluating new, lower-cost designs for their proposed Ohio facility, but no formal construction has begun. Oracles CEO Safra Catz confirmed on a recent investor call that Stargate had not yet been formally established as a legal entity, casting further doubt on its operational status. Political spotlight President Trumps administration had touted Stargate as a symbol of Americas resurgence in technological leadership. With its White House launch, the project was strategically positioned to highlight Trumps commitment to economic growth, innovation and job creation. But the delays in execution are now raising questions about the projects feasibility. Despite repeated assurances of urgency, Stargates progress does not appear to align with the administrations timelines or rhetoric. The Trump administration has even declared a national energy emergency to remove regulatory barriers. Yet Stargate, meant to be the flagship of this national push, has not delivered as expected. A vanishing dream? While Stargates immediate ambitions have shrunk dramatically, those involved insist the long-term vision remains intact. OpenAI, for its part, continues to emphasise the need for large-scale investment in compute infrastructure, describing it as essential for advancing toward artificial general intelligence (AGI). Some elements of the original vision have taken shape albeit outside Stargates framework. In Abilene, Texas, where Oracle and OpenAI have already begun development, Nvidia AI hardware has been delivered and early-stage training is underway. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The site has generated thousands of construction and support jobs, offering a glimpse of what Stargate aspired to achieve. Yet these successes are largely independent of SoftBank exposing the fragmentation of what was once pitched as a unified mega-project. Stargate was conceived as a moonshot, combining public support, private capital and cutting-edge technology to catapult the US into AI supremacy. Six months later, the reality appears far messier. Whether Stargate eventually fulfills its bold promise remains unclear. The venture, for now, stands as a symbol of the tension between a much-touted ambition and the slow, tangled grind of implementation. The talks referred to the recent Sri LankaPakistan Bilateral Defence Dialogue held in Islamabad in April, highlighting its importance in reinforcing defence sector partnerships across multiple domains. The Chief of General Staff of the Pakistan Army Lieutenant General Syed Aamer Raza paid a courtesy call on Sri Lankas Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara and discussed strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. Raza is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka. The visiting delegation received a warm welcome and engaged in a cordial and constructive dialogue. His discussions with Jayasekara on Tuesday centred on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, with a particular focus on capacity building and the exchange of best practices, the Ministry of Defence here said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Both parties emphasised the significance of enhancing preparedness and resilience, especially in the context of natural disaster response, the ministry said in a statement. He also paid courtesy calls on Defence Ministry Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha. Sri Lankan officials acknowledged Pakistans long-standing support in the form of military training opportunities extended to Sri Lankan personnel, which have played a pivotal role in professional development and fostering regional collaboration. The talks referred to the recent Sri LankaPakistan Bilateral Defence Dialogue held in Islamabad in April, highlighting its importance in reinforcing defence sector partnerships across multiple domains. Sindh Chamber of Agriculture (SCA) alleged that a new 45 per cent income tax on farm earnings was introduced under pressure from the IMF and threatened of a widespread wheat cultivation boycott in protest In a development reflecting rising rural frustration at mounting economic pressures in Pakistans farm belt and potentially spelling a world of trouble for food security in the cash-strapped nation, Sindhs largest agricultural body said it would mount a legal challenge against a new 45 per cent income tax on farm earnings, branding the levy unconstitutional, illegal and unethical. The Sindh Chamber of Agriculture (SCA) warned of a widespread boycott of wheat cultivation in protest, escalating tensions between farmers and the provincial government. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The chamber convened in Pakistans Hyderabad on Tuesday (July 22) under the leadership of its patron-in-chief, Dr Syed Nadeem Qamar, to formalise its response. It alleged the tax was introduced under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with the move drawing strong resistance from growers who argue that poor returns on crops leave no room for additional fiscal burdens, Dawn reported. Farmers attending the meeting said they were struggling to receive adequate prices for their produce and slammed the governments tax move as unjustified. The SCA responded by instructing farmers across Sindh to refrain from paying the new tax, adding that if authorities attempted arrests, millions of other farmers would also court arrest. We are ready to face imprisonment, but will not pay the agricultural income tax, the groups leaders declared. Participants vowed full-scale defiance, comparing their treatment unfavourably to industrialists, who they said had been granted tax exemptions. The SCA also declared a boycott of wheat cultivation for the 2025-26 season, citing inadequate support prices. Instead of sowing wheat, the SCA said farmers would switch to alternative crops such as mustard, nigella (kalonji), sunflower and other oilseeds. The group said growers were unable to recover their costs due to low wheat prices and declared 2025-26 a boycott year for the staple crop. The chamber also raised alarm over a 40 per cent decline in cotton output, forecasting a total yield of no more than four million bales. It said that although the Sindh agriculture minister had pledged a support price of Rs11,000 per maund, farmers were currently receiving just Rs6,500. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The SCA called for the immediate removal of an 18 per cent local tax on cotton and demanded a 25 per cent tariff on imported cotton to encourage domestic production. At the same time, it voiced concern over the surging cost of key inputs, noting a PKR 22 per litre jump in diesel prices and a PKR 600 increase in DAP fertiliser per bag over just a fortnight. Such rising costs, paired with stagnant farmgate prices, were pushing cultivators to the brink. The chamber warned that this squeeze signalled a deliberate destruction of the agricultural sector and called on the authorities to reverse the price hikes on diesel, fertiliser, seeds and pesticides immediately. Farmers were urged to register for the governments Benazir Hari Card via local administrative offices to access welfare benefits. The chamber also demanded that existing subsidies of PKR 10,000 per acre currently applied to sunflower and canola be extended to mustard and rapeseed crops as well. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The meeting included senior figures from Sindhs farming leadership, including Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority Chairman Kabool Khatian, general secretary Zahid Bhurgari and agricultural organisers from across the province. Pakistans imports from India climbed to $220.58 million in FY25, a rise from $206.89 million the previous year. Meanwhile, exports to India stayed flat at $1.43 million Despite a breakdown in ties over the past few years, Pakistans trade with India has significantly increased in the financial year ending March 2025, with imports witnessing major growth, leading to a wider trade imbalance. Pakistans imports from India climbed to $220.58 million in FY25, a rise from $206.89 million the previous year, reported Dawn, citing data from the State Bank of Pakistan. In FY24, imports from India grew by 6.62 per cent to $206.89 million, up from $190.04 million the year before. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, exports to India stayed flat at $1.43 million in FY25. In FY24, exports to India jumped to $3.669 million from just $0.329 million the previous year. It shows that while trade between the two neighbours increased during the current financial year, the deficit also grew for Pakistan, as imports outvalued exports by over $200 million. Pakistans trade deficit swells The trade deficit with nine neighbouring countries ballooned by 29.42 per cent in FY25, reaching $12.297 billion compared to $9.502 billion the year prior. In FY24, the deficit was $9.506 billion, a 49 per cent increase from $6.382 billion the previous year. Despite some export growth, the overall trade gap with regional partners widened, largely due to higher imports from China, India, and Bangladesh during this period. Exports to Afghanistan, Bangladesh increased Pakistans exports to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka saw strong growth in July-June FY25, but exports to other countries, particularly China, continued to slide. Total exports to nine countriesAfghanistan, China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldivesedged up by 1.49 per cent to $4.401 billion in July-June FY25, from $4.336 billion the previous year. However, imports surged by 20.66 per cent to $16.698 billion in FY25, compared to $13.838 billion in the prior fiscal year. Trade gap with China widened Breaking it down, imports from China rose by 20.79 per cent to $16.312 billion in FY25, up from $13.504 billion the previous year. In FY24, imports from China hit $13.506 billion, a 39.78 per cent increase from $9.662 billion the year before. China dominates the regions imports, with India and Bangladesh contributing smaller shares. On the export side, Pakistans shipments to China fell by 8.6 per cent to $2.476 billion in FY25, down from $2.709 billion in the same period of the previous fiscal year. Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharifs call for meaningful dialogue with India is met with scepticism in New Delhi, given a long history of peace talk offers followed by betrayal. India remains firm: no talks without concrete action against terrorism. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said his country was ready for a meaningful dialogue with India to resolve all outstanding issues. However, the statement follows a familiar and recurring pattern that has left India deeply sceptical. New Delhi views such peace overtures from Islamabad as part of a well-worn script, historically been followed by betrayal and hostile actions. Sharif made the remarks during a meeting with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in Islamabad, where the two discussed regional affairs and bilateral ties. According to an official statement, Sharif expressed his appreciation for the UKs role in de-escalation of tensions during the Pakistan-India standoff and reiterated that Pakistan was ready for a meaningful dialogue with India on all outstanding issues. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The comments come in the wake of Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7 to target terror and military infrastructure in Pakistans territories following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. However, Indias position remains firm: any dialogue must centre around Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and an end to cross-border terrorism. Indian officials have consistently warned against falling into the trap of rhetoric-driven diplomacy from Pakistan that lacks sincerity and follow-through. A pattern of peace talk offers followed by betrayal Pakistans leadership has a long history of extending olive branches publicly while permitting or orchestrating actions that sabotage the very idea of peace. 1999 Kargil War: Just months after then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited Lahore in a ground-breaking peace initiative with Nawaz Sharif, Pakistani troops and militants, under the guidance of General Pervez Musharraf infiltrated Indian territory in Kargil, triggering a bloody conflict that cost hundreds of lives. 2001 Agra Summit: After the Kargil betrayal, India cautiously resumed dialogue. But the summit collapsed and in December that year, terrorists from Pakistan attacked the Indian Parliament, a strike that nearly brought the two nations to the brink of war. 2008 Mumbai Attacks: Another major setback came after years of back-channel diplomacy and confidence-building measures. The 26/11 attacks, carried out by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives, left 166 people dead and shattered any remaining trust. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Post-Uri and Pulwama attacks: In more recent years, terror attacks in Uri (2016) and Pulwama (2019), again linked to Pakistan-based groups, were met with Indian military responses, surgical strikes and airstrikes in Balakot, respectively that further cementing Indias view that engagement with Pakistan has repeatedly been undermined by acts of terror. Indias cautious stance The Indian government has been saying unequivocally that talks cannot proceed under the shadow of terrorism. Without visible, verifiable action from Pakistan to dismantle terrorist networks operating from its soil, India remains unwilling to resume any substantive dialogue. In this context, Sharifs latest outreach is being viewed in New Delhi not as a genuine diplomatic move but as part of a familiar playbook, one where calls for peace serve as a smokescreen for strategic inaction or deception. A senior US State Department official on Tuesday (July 22) confirmed that a Pakistani delegation is scheduled to visit Washington for a bilateral meeting US has confirmed that a Pakistani delegation is set to visit. Representational image/Reuters A senior US State Department official on Tuesday (July 22) confirmed that a Pakistani delegation is scheduled to visit Washington for a bilateral meeting, but stopped short of saying whether the US would play any role in resolving the long-standing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly over Kashmir. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce responded to a question at a press briefing about Donald Trumps past offer to mediate on Kashmir, an offer the US president had linked to his claim of having helped prevent a military conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We have Pakistan who is going to be here for a bilat, and Ill participating in that, so Im looking forward to that as well, said Tammy Bruce. The remarks came in response to a question that linked Trumps mediation offer with the United States stated willingness to encourage direct communication between India and Pakistan on issues such as the Indus Water Treaty (IWT). The reporter asked whether contentious matters like Kashmir would also be on the agenda. The upcoming bilateral talks follow a rare one-on-one lunch hosted by Trump for Pakistans military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, marking a significant moment in Washington-Islamabad ties. Trumps claims on ceasefire and trade Since May 10, when Trump took to social media to announce that India and Pakistan had agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire after a long night of talks mediated by the United States, he has repeatedly claimed credit for defusing the crisis. He has also said on multiple occasions that he told the South Asian rivals that the United States would do a lot of trade with them if they deescalated tensions. India, however, has firmly denied any American involvement in the ceasefire. Officials in New Delhi have maintained that the agreement was reached bilaterally through direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of the two countries. No talk of mediation, says India A long-anticipated meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Leaders Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, in June did not materialise as Trump cut short his visit and returned to Washington. However, before Modi concluded his own visit, the two leaders had a 35-minute telephonic conversation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, speaking from Kananaskis, said PM Modi clearly conveyed to Trump that at "no point" during the days following Operation Sindoor was there any discussion, at any level, on an India-US trade deal or any proposal for mediation by the US between India and Pakistan. The upcoming bilateral meeting in Washington is expected to cover a wide range of regional and strategic issues, though it remains unclear whether Kashmir will feature in the discussions. With inputs from PTI Interestingly, the resolution said that terrorism remains a persistent scourge at a time when Pakistan is the council chair for the month of July. Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, is the council president this month The UN Security Council has adopted a draft resolution to settle disputes peacefully and urged member states to utilise mechanisms outlined under Article 33 of the UN Charter, including negotiation, enquiry, and mediation. Peace is a choice, and the world expects the Security Council to help countries make that choice, the UN Chief Antonio Guterres said during a debate on promoting international peace. Interestingly, the resolution said that terrorism remains a persistent scourge at a time when Pakistan is the council chair for the month of July. Pakistans Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ishaq Dar, is the council president this month. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The resolution calls for enhancing efforts by all regional and sub-regional organisations for peaceful settlement of disputes and to strengthen cooperation between these organisations and the United Nations. Dar rakes up Kashmir Multilateralism is not merely a diplomatic convenience, it is the need of the art. It is time to return to the spirit of San Francisco, where the Charter was born out of the ashes of war and with a hope for peace," Dar said. During his address, the Pakistani minister mentioned Kashmir as an internationally recognised disputed territory" and called Indias decision to put the Indus Waters Treaty into abeyance regrettable and unjustified." Dar pushed the UNSC to find a resolution for the Kashmir issue based on what he called relevant Security Council resolutions. India hits back Meanwhile, India has hit back at Dars statement at the UNSC, with Ambassador Harish saying, On one hand, there is India a matured democracy, a surging economy, a pluralistic and inclusive society. At the other extreme is Pakistan, steeped in fanaticism and terrorism, and a serial borrower from the IMF. #IndiaAtUN PR @AmbHarishP delivered s statement at the @UN Security Council High Level Open Debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes. @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/A3jp6ojkJy India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) July 22, 2025 It ill behoves the member of the Council to offer homilies while indulging in practices that are unacceptable to the international community," he added. UK PM Keir Starmer is set to host Modi at Chequers, the British prime ministers official country residence located about 50 km northwest of London PM Narendra Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. (Image: AFP/File) Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in London during the early hours of Thursday (July 24). He is on a two-day visit to the UK and is seeking to strengthen defence, trade and technology ties. The formalisation of a long-awaited free trade agreement (FTA) is expected to dominate the agenda. The agreement, hailed as a landmark development, is likely to provide a major boost to economic ties between the two nations. VIDEO | United Kingdom: PM Narendra Modi (@narendramodi arrives in London for his 2-day visit. (Source: Third Party)#London pic.twitter.com/OVhWwJdM7x Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trade minister Piyush Goyal will accompany Modi for the formal signing. This will be Modis fourth visit to the UK since he took office in 2014. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade, energy, security, health and education issues. Starmer will host Modi at Chequers, the British prime ministers official country residence located about 50 km northwest of London. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds are expected to sign the FTA in the presence of both leaders, according to people familiar with the matter. India and the UK reached an agreement on the FTA in May after nearly three years of negotiations. The deal will eliminate tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports and make it easier for British firms to sell products such as whisky and cars in the Indian market, while expanding the overall trade basket. The deal is expected to offer full market access for Indian goods across all sectors. Officials said tariff elimination would apply to around 99 per cent of tariff lines, covering nearly the entire trade value between the two countries. In addition to the FTA, described as the UKs most significant trade deal since its departure from the European Union, the two sides concluded a double contribution convention, exempting Indian employers from making social security payments in Britain for their workers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD More to come Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday (July 23) called the development positive, noting that it would make cross-border travel easier People look at a portrait of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Museum of the Communist Party of China in Beijing on February 23, 2025. Representative image/AFP China has welcomed Indias move to start issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens again from July 24. Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday (July 23) called the development positive, noting that it would make cross-border travel easier. We take note of Indias resumption of tourist visas for Chinese citizens. This is a positive move. Easing cross-border travel is widely beneficial. China will maintain communication and consultation with India to further facilitate travel between the two countries, the MFA posted on X. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Earlier this year, reports surfaced that India and China had agreed in principle to restart direct flights, resume visa issuance, and revive the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for pilgrims, marking a step toward mending ties strained since the 2020 border clashes. Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently spent two days in Beijing, a sign of renewed diplomatic efforts between Asias two biggest economies. As agreed between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at their meeting in Kazan in October, Foreign Secretary and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister HE Mr Sun Weidong reviewed the state of India-China bilateral relations comprehensively and agreed to take certain people-centric steps to stabilise and rebuild ties, the Ministry of External Affairs stated in a release. The two sides decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the summer of 2025, it added. The release also noted, They also agreed to hold an early meeting of the India-China Expert Level Mechanism to discuss the resumption of the provision of hydrological data and other cooperation pertaining to trans-border rivers. Jaishankars visit to China This month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing during a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) event. In talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Jaishankar stressed a long-term approach to resolving issues. Incumbent on us to address aspects related to the border, normalising people-to-people exchanges and avoiding restrictive trade measures and roadblocks, he posted on X afterwards. Confident that on the foundation of mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity, ties can develop along a positive trajectory, he added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India-China tensions Tensions flared after a military standoff in eastern Ladakh began in May 2020, escalating with a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley that June. Over the past nine months, India and China have worked to normalise relations, culminating in the end of the military face-off along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in October last year. However, while troops have disengaged from key friction points, full de-escalation remains pending, with each side still stationing 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC in eastern Ladakh. Last years meeting between Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan set a hopeful tone for improving and developing China-India relations. The surge follows South Koreas first annual increase in births in more than a decade, which was fuelled by an increase in marriages. In 2024, the number of babies increased by 8,300, or 3.6%, to 238,300 from the previous year South Korea registered record birth rate growth during the first five months of the year. File image/ AFP South Koreas birth rate increased at a record pace in the first five months of the year, according to a statistics agency official who spoke with AFP on Wednesday. The country has one of the worlds highest life expectancies and lowest birth rates, posing a significant demographic concern. Seoul has invested billions of dollars in programs to encourage women to have more children and maintain population stability. The number of newborns for the JanuaryMay period stood at 106,048, a 6.9 percent increase, the highest growth rate since such data collection began in 1981, said Kang hyun-young from Statistics Korea. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The surge follows South Koreas first annual increase in births in more than a decade, which was fuelled by an increase in marriages. In 2024, the number of babies increased by 8,300, or 3.6%, to 238,300 from the previous year. April in particular saw a jump, with year-on-year increase of 8.7 percent and a total of 20,717 births that month. The most recent result represents a dramatic contrast to early 2024, when the number of newborns fell by 2.7% from the previous year between January and May. In May, the fertility rate, or average number of kids a woman is projected to have in her lifetime, was 0.75. The country needs a fertility rate of 2.1 children in order to maintain the countrys population of 51 million. At current rates, the population will nearly halve to 26.8 million by 2100, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington in Seattle. Marriage correlation The increase is attributable to a rise in the number of women in their early 30s, leading to an overall increase in marriages, Kang told AFP. In South Korea, there is a strong correlation between marriage and childbirth, which has driven the increase in births during the first five months, she added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In 2024, the country saw a 14.8 percent on-year increase in the number of marriages, with more than 220,000 couples tying the knot. Many government benefits designed to support child-rearing do not cover parents who are not legally married. Analysts say there are multiple reasons for the low birth rate, from high child-rearing costs and property prices to a notoriously competitive society that makes well-paid jobs difficult to secure. The double burden for working mothers of managing the brunt of household chores and childcare while also maintaining their careers is another key factor, they say. In a bid to reverse the trend, the South Korean government offers cash subsidies, babysitting services, and support for infertility treatment. Neighbouring Japan is grappling with the same issue it has the worlds second-oldest population after Monaco, and the countrys relatively strict immigration rules mean it faces growing labour shortages. India-UK relations have deepened under PM Modi through a strategic roadmap, growing trade and investment, an impending FTA, enhanced defence and tech cooperation, educational partnerships, healthcare workforce ties and sustained political engagement, laying the foundation for a comprehensive and future-ready partnership. From a shared colonial past to a dynamic, forward-looking partnership, India-UK relations have undergone a strategic transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership. In recent years, bilateral ties have evolved beyond symbolism with concrete progress across trade, defence, education and technology. Here are seven key developments that have defined India-UK relations during Modis tenure. Strategic partnership and Roadmap 2030 India and the UK elevated their bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, guided by the ambitious Roadmap 2030 which covers cooperation across trade, defence, education, health and climate action. High-level political engagement has underpinned this partnership with frequent meetings between Prime Minister Modi and UK counterparts including Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak, and Keir Starmer. Other key engagements include President Droupadi Murmus visit to London for Queen Elizabeth IIs funeral, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhars attendance at King Charles IIIs coronation and PM Modis meetings with UK leaders during G7 and G20 summits. Speaker Om Birla also visited the UK in January 2025 further strengthened parliamentary exchanges. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Free Trade Agreement in focus India and the UK have long maintained strong economic ties, underpinned by institutional mechanisms like the India-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) and the Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD). These forums have facilitated deeper trade and financial cooperation. A major milestone was the conclusion of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Double Taxation Avoidance Convention in May 2025 after three years of negotiations. The FTA, one of Indias most comprehensive covers 26 chapters including goods, services, digital trade, IPR and labour standards. Bilateral trade reached 43 billion in 2024, with the UK being the 6th largest investor in India (FDI of $35 billion) and nearly 1,000 Indian firms operating in the UK. The Indian diaspora and corporate presence in both countries have further bolstered this growing economic partnership. Bilateral trade crosses $55 billion Trade volumes between the two nations have seen remarkable growth. By 2024, bilateral trade surpassed $55 billion, driven by growing demand for Indian goods and services in the UK and rising British exports to India. Both countries have also committed to increasing trade by investing in innovation, digitalisation, and sustainable practices. Robust investment flows The UK remains a major foreign investor in India with cumulative FDI exceeding $36 billion. British firms have expanded operations in Indias manufacturing, services and fintech sectors. Conversely, over 1,000 Indian companies now operate in the UK, creating jobs and contributing majorly to the British economy. The presence of Indian firms like Tata, Infosys and Wipro in the UK showcases the depth of this economic engagement. Defence and technology cooperation India and the UK share a broad defence relationship encompassing joint military exercises, defence technology cooperation, defence education, procurement and promotion of the Make in India initiative. Key joint exercises include Exercise Konkan 2023 (naval), Cobra Warrior 2023 (air), Ajeya Warrior 2023 (army), and participation in Tarang Shakti 2024. Regular exchanges of subject matter experts further strengthen operational synergy. In science and innovation, the UK has become Indias second-largest international research partner with joint projects worth 300400 million. During the India-UK Science and Innovation Council (SIC) held in April 2023, both sides signed MoUs in cutting-edge areas such as quantum tech, AI, clean energy and pandemic preparedness. The two countries also launched the India-UK Net Zero Innovation Virtual Centre, focused on industrial decarbonisation and green hydrogen solutions. India was recognised as a partner country under the UKs International Science Partnership Fund, extending the legacy of the Newton-Bhabha partnership. Health and education Health cooperation between India and the UK gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through the AstraZenecaSerum Institute of India vaccine partnership, which highlighted the countries joint capability in addressing global health challenges. In 2022, both governments signed the India-UK Framework Agreement for Collaboration on Health Care Workforce, facilitating training and recruitment of Indian nurses and healthcare professionals. By 2023, over 60,000 Indians were working in the UKs NHS, making them the second-largest nationality group after British citizens. In education, bilateral ties have deepened through growing student exchanges and institutional collaborations. Nearly 170,000 Indian students are currently studying in the UK, supported by increased visa issuances. The UK has also begun to invest directly in Indias higher education ecosystem, with the University of Southampton opening a campus in Gurugram, the first under Indias New Education Policy (NEP). People-to-people ties People-to-people linkages have flourished, aided by the Migration and Mobility Partnership (MMP) and the Young Professional Scheme, which allows youth from both countries to live and work for up to two years. The Indian diaspora, numbering over 1.6 million in the UK, continues to act as a cultural and economic bridge. Sharif announced a slew of new security measures that his government will take to make Pakistan a business-friendly nation for Chinese nationals Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif react after unveiling a plaque to mark the completion of the New Gwadar International Airport, during a ceremony at the Prime Minister's House in Islamabad, Pakistan October 14, 2024. (Photo: Reuters)/Representational image. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that the police force will be given military-level training in order to protect Chinese nationals residing in the country for business purposes. Sharif announced a slew of new security measures that his government will take to make Pakistan a business-friendly nation for Chinese nationals. The confidence of Chinese companies in the Pakistani economy is extremely important for our economic future. The prime ministers comments came as both countries expand the scope of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In recent days, several Chinese citizens living in various parts of the country have come under attack. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What other measures will be taken? Sharif said that since China is our friendly country, it is a priority of the government to take care of any Chinese national residing in Pakistan. He emphasised that with the progress of CPEC, ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan had become even more critical. He directed that priority measures be implemented at all airports to ease their arrival and departure. Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi said that the entire country is working towards providing safety to Chinese nationals, as different states are constructing, what the government has called, a safe city. Chinese nationals are also being provided with security escort facilities for travel, according to a report by Dawn. Chinese nationals attacked in Pak Thousands of Chinese nationals are employed at China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) sites and major infrastructure projects across regions including Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where they have frequently been targeted in attacks reportedly carried out by militants, including the BLA and the Pakistani Taliban. According to official figures from Pakistans National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), at least 20 Chinese citizens have been killed and 34 injured in 14 terrorist attacks across the country since 2021. Trump on Tuesday announced what he called a massive trade deal with Japan, claiming it would bring $550 billion in Japanese investment and impose a 15 per cent reciprocal tariff. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday(local US time) unveiled what he described as a massive trade agreement with Japan, with tariff rates set at 15 per cent. He claimed the deal would bring $550 billion in Japanese investments to the US and introduce a 15 per cent reciprocal tariff. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the agreement also includes expanded trade access for American cars, trucks, rice, and other agricultural products. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We just completed a massive deal with Japan, perhaps the largest deal ever made, Trump wrote. Japan will invest, at my direction, 550 billion dollars into the United States, which will receive 90 per cent of the profits. This deal will create hundreds of thousands of jobs, there has never been anything like it. He added, Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their country to trade including cars and trucks, rice, certain agricultural products, and other items. Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs to the United States of 15 per cent. The announcement came shortly after Trump met Japans top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, at the White House on Tuesday. While the 15 per cent tariff is lower than the 25 per cent Trump initially proposed, it goes against Tokyos earlier demand for a complete exemption from US tariffs. The new duties are expected to take effect from August 1, in line with other reciprocal tariffs Trump is rolling out against major economies. Uncertainty around the deal had grown earlier in the week following a major electoral setback for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishibas ruling Liberal Democratic Party in the upper house elections. It remains unclear whether the 15 per cent tariff will be compounded with Trumps previously proposed 25 per cent levy on automobiles and 50 per cent duty on steeltwo key export sectors for Japan and major sticking points in bilateral trade talks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Negotiators from the island-nation reached the US on Wednesday for tariff talks, as the delegation hopes to clinch a deal with US counterparts. The fourth round of talks is being attended by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun and trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni As US President Donald Trump secured trade deals with two Asian countries back-to-back, Taiwan is hurrying to get in line and seal its own agreement with Washington as the August 1 deadline nears. Negotiators from the island-nation reached the US on Wednesday for tariff talks, as the delegation hopes to clinch a deal with US counterparts, a source has told Bloomberg. The fourth round of talks is being attended by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun and trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The source said that discussions between the two sides have been constructive so far, adding that the final tariff rate will ultimately be decided by Trump. The Taiwanese delegations visit comes as the countrys neighbours successfully reached trade deals with the US as announced by the president. Japan and Philippines seal the deal Trump announced Tuesday a massive trade deal with Japan. He said that under the deal, Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90 per cent of the Profits. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said that the autos levy had been cut to 15 per cent, sending Japanese car stocks soaring, with Toyota and Mitsubishi up around 14 percent each. The Nikkei rose 3.5 percent. Trump agreed Tuesday to reduce threatened tariffs on the Philippines, but only by one percentage point, after what he termed a successful meeting with his counterpart Ferdinand Marcos. The Japan agreement, along with another pact with the Philippines also announced on Tuesday, means Trump has now secured five agreements since his administration promised in April 90 deals in 90 days. US-Taiwan trade Taiwans increasing dependence on the US market has heightened its urgency to reduce tariffs. Last year, Taiwan recorded a trade surplus of around $65 billion with the US, driven by strong demand for tech products essential to the AI boom. In April, Trump imposed a 32 per cent tariff on Taiwanese goods before pausing it. This gave Taipei the time to hammer out a deal with the US. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Taipei had also committed to increasing investment in the US and tightening export control loopholes on high-tech products, an area of concern for Washington as it seeks to limit Chinas technological advances amid fears that Beijing could gain a military advantage. With inputs from agencies Trump announced a new trade agreement with the Philippines following talks at the White House with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, with tariff rates at 19% on imports and zero on exports. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 22) announced a new trade deal with the Philippines after a high-level meeting at the White House with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called the agreement a major step forward in strengthening economic ties between the two countries. President Ferdinand Marcos, of the Philippines, is just leaving the White House We concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs, Trump wrote. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump said the Philippines would pay a 19 per cent tariff under the new deal. He also highlighted the military aspect of the partnership, saying, We will work together militarily He [Marcos Jr.] is a very good and tough negotiator. Balancing ties with China In their Oval Office meeting, both leaders also discussed how the Philippines plans to navigate its diplomatic ties with both the United States and China. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he is likely to visit China in the near future, amid efforts to stabilise trade and security ties between the worlds two largest economies US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are seen during an engagement on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in 2019. (Photo: Reuters) US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he is likely to visit China in the near future, amid efforts to stabilise trade and security ties between the worlds two largest economies. President Xi has invited me to China, and well probably be doing that in the not-too-distant future, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. A little bit out, but not too distant. And Ive been invited by a lot of people, and well make those decisions pretty soon. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The potential trip, which has yet to be finalised, could coincide with Trumps scheduled visit to Asia later this year. According to sources cited by Reuters, one option under consideration is a bilateral meeting with Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, set to take place in South Korea from October 30 to November 1. Another possible occasion would be a Beijing ceremony on September 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, which Russian President Vladimir Putin is also expected to attend. If confirmed, meetings between Trump and either Xi or Putin would mark the first in-person encounters since Trumps second inauguration on January 20. Neither the White House nor Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commented publicly on the reports. Meeting Marcos, eyeing Beijing Trumps remarks came during a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a key U.S. ally in the Pacific region. Trump noted that he had convinced Marcos to steer away from Chinese influence. The country was maybe tilting toward China for a period of time, but we un-tilted it very, very quickly, he said. I dont mind if he gets along with China because were getting along with China very well. Since taking office in 2022, Marcos has sought closer defence ties with Washington amid escalating tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea. The US and the Philippines share a mutual defence treaty dating back over 70 years, potentially drawing Washington into any maritime conflict between Manila and Beijing. Trade standoff and tariff deadline Despite recent overtures, Washington continues to view Beijing as its primary strategic rival. Since Trumps return to office, he has reignited a protectionist agenda, resuming tariff battles that first began during his previous term. Chinas support for Russia, tensions over Taiwan, the opioid trade, and the use of exit bans on US citizens remain key sources of friction. Nonetheless, Trump has recently struck a more conciliatory tone, describing his relationship with Xi as healthy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The president has floated a plan for a universal 10 per cent tariff on all imports, with higher rates for specific countries. Chinese goods currently face a 55 per cent tariff the highest among US trade partners. Trump has given both countries until August 12 to negotiate a durable tariff agreement. Whether an upcoming visit to Beijing helps break the impasse remains to be seen. With the withdrawal from the Unesco, President Donald Trump has abandoned yet another multilateral institution, making his disdain for multilateralism clear. Here we explore other institutions that he has quit and how these withdrawals empowered US adversaries. President Donald Trump has withdrawn the United States from Unesco over the institutions purported woke policies and support for Palestine. While the Trump administration has pitched the withdrawal from Unesco and other such organisations as part of the America First agenda, such exits have actually helped US adversaries like Russia and China to expand their global footprint by filling the vacuum created by the US withdrawal. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) is the latest organisation that Trump has withdrawn from. He h as previously withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Paris climate agreement, and a host of bilateral and multinational treaties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ: Is Trump really a master dealmaker? Here's how his 1st term's deals played out These withdrawals are rooted in Trumps disdain for multilateralism that has seen him even ditch alliances that have been central to US foreign and defence policies for generations. Trumps long war on multilateralism Trump began the war on multilateralism and has continued it in his second term. In 2017, Trump withdrew from the Paris climate agreement, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), and Unesco. In 2018, Trump withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal that the previous Barack Obama administration had negotiated with Iran along with the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, France, China, Russia, and Germany. In his second term in 2025, Trump has also withdrawn from the WHO, the UN human rights body, and the UN Palestinian agency. Trump has also withdrawn from the Paris climate agreement and Unesco that the United States had joined under the previous Joe Biden administration. Trump has also essentially withdrawn from the security commitment to Europe under the blanket of Nato. In the run-up to the 2024 election, he had said he would encourage Russia to do whatever the hell they want to European Nato allies if they would not do his bidding. In addition to putting into question the US commitment to Nato, Trump has also indicated he could abandon Aukus, a security partnership for the Indo-Pacific region with the UK and Australia that involved making nuclear submarines for Australia. Trumps Department of Defence has initiated a review of the pact. Trump goes after woke UN and hands China a victory The Trump administration has based the withdrawal from Unesco on two topics it has weaponised: purported wokeness and criticism of Israel. White House Deputy Spokesperson Anna Kelly said that Trump withdrew from Unesco because the organisation supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Separately, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said that Unescos agenda was to advance divisive social and cultural causes and that the organisations decision in 2011 to admit the State of Palestine as a Member State is highly problematic, contrary to US policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organisation. Irrespective of whatever the Trump administration may say, the only beneficiaries of such withdrawals have been US adversaries like China and Russia. Power does not remain in vacuum and if the United States would any place, either a strategic theatre like Europe or multinational organisation like the UN, China is going to increase the footprint there and increase its influence and dominance, according to Prof Tej Pratap Singh, a scholar of China at the Department of Political Science, Banaras Hindu University (BHU). ALSO READ: Is Trump on a mission to make China great again? Trump has nearly shut down foreign aid via USAID and paralysed a host of humanitarian programmes in Africa, erasing goodwill generated over decades of hard work across the administrations of both the parties. By killing American goodwill and giving China an opening to expand influence is a self-goal the withdrawal from Unesco is the latest such self-goal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Developing countries need assistance. If the United States withdraws, China will reach out to these nations and they will be glad to have Chinese support. China has been making inroads in Africa for many years and the US withdrawal is set to increase that. India has been countering Chinese influence in the Global South but countering China needs joint efforts and, in the absence of US involvement, China is set to make good gains, Singh previously told Firstpost. The Trump administration is preparing to eliminate the legal and scientific cornerstone of the federal governments climate change policy. A draft Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal, not yet public, would rescind the 2009 endangerment finding that identified greenhouse gas emissions as a threat to human health and welfare. Legal foundation of climate policy targeted As reported by The New York Times, two individuals familiar with the draft explained that the EPA intends to roll back the finding without directly challenging the scientific consensus that emissions from fossil fuels contribute to global warming. Instead, the administration reportedly plans to argue that the EPA exceeded its legal authority when it issued a sweeping declaration under the Clean Air Act. The endangerment finding, developed during the Obama administration in response to a 2007 Supreme Court ruling, provided the legal basis for federal rules limiting emissions from vehicles, power plants and industrial sources. If repealed, the decision would not only nullify existing environmental protections but also prevent future administrations from reinstating similar measures without starting over legally and scientifically. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tailpipe emission rules also in crosshairs The draft rule also includes a proposal to revoke federal limits on vehicle emissions that were designed to speed up the transition to electric cars. The transportation sector is currently the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the US. The EPA is expected to argue that such regulations, based on the endangerment finding, cause harm to consumers by limiting vehicle choice and increasing prices rather than improving public health. Reports described the EPAs framing as an economic onesuggesting that federal efforts to reduce carbon emissions come at too great a financial cost. Administrator Lee Zeldin, in earlier remarks reported by The Washington Post, emphasised the need to balance environmental goals with energy security and economic freedom, framing the review of the endangerment finding as part of the administrations broader deregulatory agenda. Environmental and legal experts cited by both newspapers have expressed deep concern over the proposed rollback. The New York Times noted that critics see this move as a direct challenge to the Supreme Courts Massachusetts vs EPA decision, which concluded that greenhouse gases are pollutants that must be regulated under the Clean Air Act. Legal analysts told The Washington Post that any attempt to withdraw the endangerment finding could unravel the EPAs authority to act on climate altogether. Some believe the rule is unlikely to survive in court but warn that even temporary setbacks could paralyse climate action. Political motives? Behind the scenes, the proposal appears to have been shaped by former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, according to The Washington Post. Clark, who was involved in legal opposition to greenhouse gas regulations during the Bush administration, is believed to be a principal architect of the repeal. His past criticisms of the endangerment finding, especially its alleged failure to weigh economic consequences, have reportedly informed the draft rules legal strategy. Instead of contesting climate science outright, the rule reportedly focusses on legal technicalitiesarguing that the EPAs authority should be limited to addressing specific pollutants in narrowly defined contexts. This approach is designed to bypass the robust scientific basis of the original finding while aiming to avoid direct confrontation with the broader consensus on climate change. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A coordinated deregulatory effort The attempt to repeal the endangerment finding is one of many efforts by the Trump administration to reverse environmental protections. As The New York Times reported, the administration has already rolled back rules targeting emissions from fossil fuels, discouraged electric vehicle development and withdrawn the US from international climate commitments. David Doniger of the Natural Resources Defence Council, speaking to The Washington Post, was one of several legal experts who characterised the move as a strategy to weaken the Clean Air Act by denying the well-documented risks of climate pollution. Others noted that this rule could become the centrepiece of the administrations climate legacyone that seeks to neutralise not just current regulations, but future ones as well. While the draft rule has not yet been formally released, the EPA was submitted to the White House for review on June 30. Once published, it will undergo a period of public comment, and potentially litigation, before becoming final. The outcome of this regulatory shift could have lasting consequences not only for current efforts to reduce emissions but also for Americas long-term ability to respond to the growing climate crisis. Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler and his British counterpart, John Healey, signed a MOU during a defence industry show in Istanbul, according to the Turkish Ministry of National Defence Turkey, a NATO member, has long sought to purchase 40 Eurofighter planes produced by a collaboration of British, German, and Italian businesses. File image/ AP Turkey and Britain inked a preliminary deal on Wednesday for the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter planes to Turkey, marking a significant step forward in Ankaras goals to modernise its air fleet. Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler and his British counterpart, John Healey, signed a memorandum of understanding during a defence industry show in Istanbul, according to the Turkish Ministry of National Defence. Turkey, a NATO member, has long sought to purchase 40 Eurofighter planes produced by a collaboration of British, German, and Italian businesses. Germany apparently first rejected the transaction but eventually changed its position. Britain oversaw discussions on behalf of the group. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to a statement from Turkeys defence ministry, the pact brings the two countries one step closer to a full agreement on the Typhoon. Both Ministers welcome signature as a positive step towards bringing Turkey into the Typhoon club and share a mutual ambition to conclude the necessary arrangements as soon as possible, it added. Britains BAE Systems, a part of the consortium, hailed the agreement and stated that it will continue to work with the Turkish and British governments to finalise the procurement deal. Turkish authorities have stated that they are currently negotiating price and technical details, having received an initial bid and want to submit a counter-proposal. Turkey is also looking to return to the US-led F-35 fighter jet program, from which it was expelled in 2019 after purchasing Russian-made S-400 missile defence systems. The US said the systems presented a threat to the F-35s. Turkey is also building a homegrown fifth-generation fighter plane, the KAAN, which is expected to be operational in 2028. Ahead of the meeting of Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Turkey for the third round of direct talks, the Kremlin has set the tone by saying that any miracle should not be expected today. The talks come at a time when Russia has intensified the war with increased aerial attacks and advances on the ground. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces via videoconference at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow on April 26, 2025. AP Photo The Kremlin set the tone for the meeting between Russian and Ukrainian officials on Wednesday by saying that no one should expect any miracles. Ukrainian and Russian delegations will meet on Wednesday evening in Turkey's Istanbul for the third round of direct talks. The talks will take at a time when Russia has intensified the war with increased aerial attacks and advances on the ground. In yet another sign that Russia is not giving importance to todays talks, Vladimir Putin has decided to send a relatively low-ranking official, Vladimir Medinsky, as the head of its delegation. The Ukrainian delegation will be led by Rustem Umerov, who until recently served as the defence minister and currently serves as security council secretary. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ: With Russias terms to Ukraine, Putin seeks surrender not a peace deal In the last round of talks, both the sides exchanged their terms for the end of the war. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy offered concessions, Russian leader Putin reiterated his maximalist demands that made it clear that he did not want a peace deal but Ukraines capitulation. Dont expect miracles: Kremlin downplays talks Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said ahead of the talks that no should expect any breakthrough in the category of miracles. Peskov made it clear that talks for Russia were not an attempt to reach middle ground but to impose maximalist terms on Ukraine. We intend to pursue our interests, we intend to ensure our interests and fulfil the tasks that we set for ourselves from the very beginning, Peskov said. Peskov also refused to indicate the timeline to reach an agreement with Ukraine to end the war. When asked about the expectations with talks, Peskov said, No one expects an easy road. It will be very difficult. Ukraine & Russia to aim for low-hanging fruits Even though Ukraine and Russia are meeting today, no major breakthrough is expected. Both the sides will try to reach understandings on issues like the repatriation of hostages or bodies that help them politically at home. For Ukraine, Zelenskyy said ahead of the talks that the agenda will be the return of prisoners of war, the return of the children abducted by Russia, and the preparation of a leaders meeting. The talks will take at a precarious moment for Ukraine that has been torn apart with the new law passed by Zelenskyys party that essentially kills the independence of the countrys anti-corruption agencies. For the first time since Russian invasion of Ukraine, thousands of people are demonstrating in several parts of the country, including near the presidential office in Kyiv, amid outrage against the law. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The law, which Zelenskyy said is critical to keeping Russian spies out of these agencies, has not just outraged Ukrainians public and civil society, but has also alarmed the European Union (EU). Observers have said that the law could hamper Ukraines eventual accession to the EU. The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement, paving the way for its formal signing during Prime Minister Narendra Modis upcoming visit to the United Kingdom. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Keir Starmer. Modi, who annoiunced the Free Trade Agreement on social media, said he is looking forward to welcoming Starmer to India. Reuters The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modis scheduled visit to the United Kingdom, where he is expected to formally sign the deal with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on June 24. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will also accompany him for the great milestone completion. Although the agreement was announced on May 6, the full text was held back pending final legal review. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The trade pact, however, will only take effect once it is ratified by the British Parliament. PM Modis trip includes a four-day visit to the UK and the Maldives, beginning Wednesday. The deal comes after years of political upheaval in the UK, which saw three different Prime Ministers before the Labour Party returned to power with a strong majority. This marks Indias first major trade deal with a Western nation since it opted out of the China-led RCEP in 2019. The agreement is set to boost access for Indian exports, especially in textiles and leather, while also addressing concerns over the UKs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) that could impact Indias metal exports. In return, India will allow phased entry of high-end British cars and whisky. The Commerce Ministry said the FTA covers almost all of Indias export interests, with tariffs eliminated on about 99% of trade lines, representing nearly the entire trade value. It aims to strengthen ties between Indias and the UKs advanced services sectors. The pact includes chapters on trade in goods and services, innovation, intellectual property, government procurement, and also finalizes a social security agreement between the two countries. PM Modis trips aim to boost trade and defence ties, with a major highlight being the anticipated signing of a landmark India-UK free trade agreement Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (July 23) departed for a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives. In the first leg of the visit, the PM will visit the UK from July 23 to 24. From there, he will fly to the Maldives before concluding his four-day trip. #WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and Maldives. PM Modi will pay an official visit to the United Kingdom from 23 24 July. In the second leg of his visit, PM will undertake a State Visit to Maldives from July pic.twitter.com/vGzrsSuPaU ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modis trips aim to boost trade and defence ties, with a major highlight being the anticipated signing of a landmark India-UK free trade agreement during his London visit. The foreign tour comes amidst the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, which started on July 21. In the Maldives, the PM will be the guest of honour at the nations Independence Day celebrations. In the UK, hes scheduled for in-depth discussions with Starmer and a meeting with King Charles III on July 23-24. This marks PM Modis fourth UK visit since taking office. On Thursday (July 24), Starmer will host Modi at Chequers, the British prime ministers countryside retreat, about 50 km northwest of London. According to sources cited by news agency PTI, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and his UK counterpart Jonathan Reynolds are expected to finalise the free trade agreement in the presence of both leaders. India approves Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with UK Indias Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), just a day before Modis scheduled visit to the United Kingdom. Although the agreement was announced on May 6, the full text was held back pending final legal review. The trade pact, however, will only take effect once it is ratified by the British Parliament. This marks Indias first major trade deal with a Western nation since it opted out of the China-led RCEP in 2019. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The agreement is set to boost access for Indian exports, especially in textiles and leather, while also addressing concerns over the UKs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) that could impact Indias metal exports. In return, India will allow phased entry of high-end British cars and whisky. The Commerce Ministry said the FTA covers almost all of Indias export interests, with tariffs eliminated on about 99% of trade lines, representing nearly the entire trade value. It aims to strengthen ties between Indias and the UKs advanced services sectors. Ukraines Parliament, Verkhovna Rada, approved a contentious legislation that significantly undermines the autonomy of the countrys key anti-corruption bodies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a contentious bill weakening the countrys anti-corruption bodies despite widespread protests against his government in Kyiv. On Tuesday, Ukraines Parliament, Verkhovna Rada, approved a contentious legislation that significantly undermines the autonomy of the countrys key anti-corruption bodies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office. The development comes at a time when Zelenskyys critics are saying that Ukraine is slipping into authoritarianism as the government ignores corruption and malpractices within the system due to the long-drawn-out war. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The weakening of the anti-corruption bodies will grant sweeping powers to Ukraines prosecutor general, leaving it to the governments discretion which cases are pursued and which are slid under the carpet. The vote drew sharp criticism from the heads of both agencies and a top EU official, and spurred the largest public protests since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Veto, veto, veto! Meanwhile, Kyiv is witnessing widespread protests against Zelenskyys government, which has come under suspicion of abusing its powers in recent days. Around 1,500 protestors gathered next to Zelenskyys presidential administration complex in the capital city and shouted slogans like Shame and Veto the law, while waving placards denouncing the bill. We dont want to be like Russia. Zelenskyy is still our president. But when he does the wrong things we will say so, one of the protestors said, according to The Guardian. Protesters assembled in a park directly beneath the ornate 19th-century House of Chimeras, a striking example of rococo architecture. The crowd included students, young activists, and army veterans, some wrapped in blue and yellow Ukrainian flags. Among those present were Kyivs mayor, Vitali Klitschko, and his brother Wladimir, both showing their support. Zelenskyy orders raids against officials While Russia and Ukraine trade fire along the border, Kyiv is running a separate campaign against Zelenskyys critics. Last week, Ukraines State Bureau of Investigation conducted raids in the home and offices of the former infrastructure minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, and anti-corruption activist Vitaliy Shabunin. Authorities have defended the raids on the grounds of an alleged corruption case against Kubrakov, while Shabunin has been accused of fraud and abandoning his military post, according to a report by the Financial Times. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Concerns are mounting among officials and observers, including Kubrakov and Shabunin, and observers over the growing concentration of power in the hands of President Zelenskyy and his office. Critics warn that wartime conditions have allowed unchecked authority and sidelined key democratic reforms. India on Tuesday said it is providing all possible support to Nimisha Priya and her family and is in touch with friendly governments after her execution in Yemen was put on hold just a day before it was scheduled on July 16. The Indian government on Tuesday said it is providing all necessary support to Nimisha Priya and her family after her planned execution in Yemen was postponed just a day before it was scheduled on July 16. Describing the case as sensitive, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has extended legal aid, appointed a lawyer for the family, and ensured regular consular access. He added that the government remains in close touch with local Yemeni authorities and Priyas family to help resolve the matter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Weve made efforts to help the family reach a mutually acceptable solution with the victims family, Jaiswal said, adding that India has also reached out to friendly governments to seek further assistance. The execution was deferred by Yemeni authorities following these efforts. The Ministry said it will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide all possible help. Jaiswals remarks came days after the Centre told the Supreme Court that only Nimisha Priyas family could take steps to seek a pardon from the victims kin, and that external organisations may not be effective in the process. Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Palakkad, Kerala, was sentenced to death in 2020 for the 2017 murder of a Yemeni national. Her appeal was rejected by Yemens Supreme Judicial Council in November 2023. Her execution, originally set for July 16, was halted following the intervention of Grand Mufti of India, Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar, who reached out to religious leaders in Yemen urging them to consider mercy for the 38-year-old. While China is looking to use this summit as an opportunity to highlight its multilateralism and growing relationship with the EU, which will mark its 50th year, the bloc is looking to bring up Chinas trade surpluses and alleged supplies of dual-use goods for Moscows war A delegation of leaders from the European Union is set to lead trade talks in China as tensions between the two sides remain palpable over Beijings support to Russia in the Ukraine war. While China is looking to use this summit as an opportunity to highlight its multilateralism and growing relationship with the EU, which will mark its 50th year, the bloc is looking to bring up Chinas trade surpluses and alleged supplies of dual-use goods for Moscows war. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD China is the key enabler of Russias war in Ukraine, EUs top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, told the Financial Times ahead of the summit on Thursday. Whats on the agenda? European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are expected to spend considerable time with Xi Jinping during the one-day visit, which will feature a summit and working lunch, followed by a meeting and banquet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The summit comes less than a week after the EU adopted a sweeping new package of sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war, looking to pile more pressure on the Kremlin by lowering a price cap for Moscows oil exports. And in talks with EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic on Tuesday, the Chinese commerce ministry said Commerce Minister Wang Wentao made solemn representations regarding the inclusion of two Chinese financial institutions in the EUs 18th round of sanctions against Russia. Why is EU and China clashing? Kallas listed a number of issues the bloc has flagged to China, including trade imbalances and economic coercive practices and dominance in critical raw materials, chemicals and consumer drones. Meanwhile, Xi declined an invitation to fly down to Brussels, where the summit was meant to be held this year, a move that has not been received positively by the EU. Chinas trade surplus with the EU reached a record high of nearly 400 billion in 2022 and has stayed elevated since then. European officials have accused Chinese manufacturers of flooding their markets with surplus low-cost goods, while European businesses continue to voice frustration over limited access to the worlds second-largest economy. OPPO has confirmed the extension of its strategic partnership with camera manufacturer Hasselblad. The announcement, made at an event in Gothenburg, Sweden, follows a four-year collaboration focused on OPPOs flagship Find Series. The two companies are currently co-developing their next-generation mobile imaging system, with the stated aim of establishing new benchmarks for mobile imaging quality. Four Years of Collaborative Development The partnership between OPPO and Hasselblad is characterized by extensive technical co-development. Over the past four years, their respective R&D teams have worked together on each new Find series smartphone. This collaboration has resulted in a range of imaging tools designed to integrate the Hasselblad experience into mobile devices. Notable innovations from this partnership include the re-engineered Hasselblad Natural Color Solution for mobile, a Hasselblad Portrait Mode that emulates the bokeh effect of classic Hasselblad lenses, and a professional Master Mode tailored to match the color characteristics of the Hasselblad X2D. The collaboration also introduced creative features such as the Hasselblad XPAN Mode, which reproduces the 65:24 wide aspect ratio of the original camera. OPPOs Trajectory in Mobile Imaging During the event, OPPO reviewed its 17-year history of innovation in mobile imaging. Key milestones highlighted include the introduction of the first stacked CMOS sensor in the OPPO Find 5 in 2012, the implementation of pixel binning with the OPPO R9 in 2016, and the debut of the first periscope telephoto camera in 2017. Beginning with the Find X6 Pro, OPPO has focused on improving imaging quality across hardware, software, and aesthetics with each new generation of its Find X camera flagships. This approach is exemplified in the latest flagship, the Find X8 Ultra. The device features an advanced Penta Camera System with a True Chroma Camera and an AI Bokeh Engine for precise subject cutouts and natural-looking portraits. Additionally, the new Master Mode offers ultra-clear 50MP JPEG Max and 16-bit 50MP RAW Max formats, designed to maximize image quality. These features underscore OPPOs stated commitment to advancing mobile photography. We can expect more details about the imaging technology when the Find X9 series arrives later this year. Regarding the partnership, Pete Lau, Chief Product Officer at OPPO, said: The partnership with Hasselblad is built on a shared passion for innovation and a commitment to delivering the ultimate imaging experience. Over the past four years, we have brought the truly professional, legendary camera experience of Hasselblad to OPPOs global users. With the extension of our collaboration, we will push the boundaries of mobile imaging even further. International Maritime Organization looks forward to China's continued support: secretary-general Xinhua) 14:05, July 23, 2025 LONDON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said Monday that he appreciates China's participation in the organization's work and looks forward to China's continued support. Chinese Ambassador to Britain Zheng Zeguang on Monday informed Dominguez of the Chinese government's decision to establish a Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the IMO, and presented Dominguez with the instrument of full powers appointing him as China's permanent representative to the organization. As a Category A member of the IMO Council, China has firmly upheld and practiced true multilateralism, and has been actively committed to achieving the IMO's mission of "safe and efficient shipping on clean oceans," Zheng said. The establishment of China's permanent mission will help further deepen China's exchanges and cooperation with the IMO Secretariat and its members, making new contributions to advancing international maritime cooperation and building a maritime community with a shared future, he said. The IMO is a UN specialized agency responsible for maritime safety and security, prevention of marine pollution from ships and related legal matters. Headquartered in London, the IMO currently has 176 member states and three associate members. China resumed its lawful seat as an IMO member state in 1973 and has served as a Category A member of the organization's Council since 1989. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) 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. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has filed a lawsuit against a Mesa County Sheriff's Deputy who cooperated with federal immigration enforcement during a June 5 traffic stop that led to the detention of a 19-year-old Utah college student. Mesa County Sheriff's Investigator Alexander Zwinck stopped Caroline Dias Goncalves in Interstate 70 in the Fruita area, saying Dias Goncalves was following a semi-truck trailer too closely. During the stop, Zwinck questioned Dias Goncalves about her accent, according to body camera footage of the stop. Multiple Daily Sentinel reporters have reviewed the footage and did not detect any accent. Dias Goncalves was born in Brazil but moved to the U.S. at age seven. He also had Dias Goncalves sit in the passenger seat of his vehicle while speaking with her. She has no criminal record. Dias Goncalves, a University of Utah student, was then detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement following the stop, and was held in ICE custody fin an Aurora facility or 15 days, an experience she described as "the hardest of my life" in a statement. Weiser said in a press conference Tuesday Zwinck uploaded a picture of Dias Goncalves's driver's license and other identifying information to a Signal chat group titled "GJ Highway Hitters" that included state and federal law enforcement. Dias Goncalves was stopped and detained by ICE following that post. Weiser said Tuesday Zwinck had been part of the chat since at least November 2024 and knew there were federal immigration officers in the chat. The federal officers told Zwinck that Dias Goncalves was a Brazilian national with no criminal history and an expired visa, according to Weiser. According to Weiser, Zwinck stalled during the stop of Dias Goncalves, which gave ICE agents information about her car and pointed ICE agents in the direction she was traveling. "The deputy knowingly acted to assist federal immigration officers in immigration enforcement after the deputy knew the driver wasn't involved in any criminal activity and had no outstanding warrants or the like," Weiser said. After the stop, according to Weiser, Zwinck sent a message in the chat that said "nice work." The Mesa County Sheriff's Office said in a previous tatement it is no longer part of the chat. Colorado State Patrol was part of the Signal chat but has also said it has removed itself from the chat. According to Weiser, Zwinck's actions were in violation of a Colorado state law that prohibits local law enforcement from sharing immigration information with ICE. Zwinck engaged in this type of behavior on multiple occasions, Weiser said, leading a colleague to comment Zwinck was going to be named "ERO (Enforcement and Removal Operations, a division of ICE) interdictor of the year." According to Weiser, Zwinck was warned in an email in January that Colorado law restricts local law enforcement's ability to cooperate with ICE and support immigration enforcement. A complaint has been filed in Mesa County District Court against Zwinck in his personal capacity, Weiser said. Weiser said Tuesday the complaint is the first instance of Colorado's law against sharing information with federal immigration authorities being enforced. Monetary penalties are possible, Weiser said, but it's unclear where exactly the suit will end up. He said the main goal is for law enforcement officers to know the state of Colorado is serious about enforcing the laws in question. Weiser said Colorado law is clear that state agencies and political subdivisions are not authorized to participate in federal immigration enforcement, and thet Zwinck overstepped his job duties. "Federal immigration enforcement is the job of the federal government, not Colorado law enforcement," Weiser said. The complaint also mentions other instances of Zwinck providing information to ICE, including a June 10 incident in which "After being told that the individual had overstayed a visa and that the federal immigration officers 'would want him,' Deputy Zwinck responded, 'Oh my gosh. We better get some bitchin [sic] Christmas baskets from you guys.' Zwinck has been put on administrative leave pending an administrative investigation by the Sheriff's Office. Thursday Night Partly cloudy skies early will become overcast later during the night. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. TikTok could be tool for China to sway Taiwanese youth during wartime: Experts ROC Central News Agency 07/22/2025 09:57 PM Taipei, July 22 (CNA) Experts in information warfare on Tuesday warned that China could use TikTok to influence young people in Taiwan, particularly in a pre-war or wartime scenario, during a seminar in Taipei on Beijing's propaganda efforts targeting Taiwan. "We believe TikTok poses a significant national security risk during the gray zone period," said Lee Chih-te (), former chief of the now-disbanded Asia Fact Check Lab, citing findings from interviews and research. The gray zone period Lee referred to is a phase characterized by coercive actions -- such as disinformation operations and military intimidation -- by China that fall short of open conflict with Taiwan. Speaking at a seminar held by Academia Sinica's Institute of Sociology, Lee said that in March 2024, TikTok launched a large-scale campaign targeting its users in the United States, just as then-U.S. President Joe Biden backed legislation requiring the Chinese parent company of the short-form video app to divest its U.S. operations or face a ban. "When users in the U.S. opened TikTok on their phones, everyone received the same message -- asking them to call their congressional representatives, say they needed TikTok, and urge them to oppose the legislation," Lee said. That incident showed that TikTok has the ability to mobilize users, he said. "I have no doubt that, when needed, TikTok users in Taiwan could one day open the app and see messages claiming that Taiwan's military has already surrendered," Lee said. He added that other possible messages could urge people to refuse military service by claiming that multiple regions had already fallen. Lee, a veteran journalist, said such a scenario could "very well happen during the gray zone period," particularly when combined with footage of active-duty Taiwanese military personnel waving China's flag while in uniform on military bases -- material uncovered during recent espionage investigations in Taiwan. He said Taiwan needs to have the technical means and legal tools in place to respond to such scenarios, warning that if authorities allow this to continue in the name of internet freedom, the country could be caught unprepared when such an incident occurs. Eric Hsu, a researcher at Doublethink Lab -- an NGO that studies Chinese influence operations -- also addressed TikTok's impact on Taiwanese youth, presenting findings from a qualitative study published in May that drew on in-depth interviews with 16 Tiktok users aged 15 to 18. It was observed that users on TikTok continue to push political content in implicit ways, embedding narratives that imply "unification would have little impact on Taiwan," according to the report. Among the interviewees, some believed that the lifestyles of people in Taiwan and China are not that different, "so even if unification happened, it might not have much impact on ordinary people like themselves," he said. "One interviewee said that the only one who might end up unlucky was (President) Lai Ching-te ()," Hsu added. Explaining such a mindset, Hsu said the Chinese side likely recognizes that it is relatively difficult to get people in Taiwan to voluntarily give up their Taiwanese identity or abandon democratic values. "Their goal has always been to pave the way for unification by creating the perception that it would be a painless process," he said. (By Sunny Lai) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Contracts Contracts For July 22, 2025 AIR FORCE F.K. Horn GmbH & Co.KG, Kaiserslautern, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0003); SKE Support Services GmbH, Goldbach, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0004); Wayss & Freytag Ingenieurbau AG, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0005); J&J Maintenance Inc., doing business as J&J Worldwide Services, Mclean, Virginia (FA5613-25-D-0006); Wolff & Muller Government Services GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0007); MICKAN Generalbaugesellschaft Amberg mbH& Co.KG, Amberg, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0008); and PORR Government Services GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany (FA5613-25-D-0009), were awarded a combined ceiling of $950,000,000 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple-award construction contract for construction services. This contract provides for a streamlined execution method for a broad range of sustainment, maintenance, repair, alteration, renovation, and minor construction projects to include residential and commercial work for the Kaiserslautern military community and Spangdahlem Air Base areas. Work will be performed within the Federal Republic of Germany and is expected to be completed by July 21, 2034, if all options are exercised. These contracts were competitive acquisitions and seven offers were received. Fiscal 2025 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $22,705 ($3,244 per awardee) are being obligated at time of award. The 700th Contracting Squadron, Kapaun Air Station, Germany, is the contracting activity. Deloitte & Touche LLP, Arlington, Virginia, was awarded a $25,009,233 firm-fixed-price contract for Secretary of the Air Force, Financial Management and Comptroller Chief, financial improvement and audit remediation services. This contract provides for day-to-day implementation of the financial improvement and audit readiness program and compliance with annual statements and audit mandates as required by the Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990 and the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2024. Work will be performed in the National Capital Region and is expected to be completed by Nov. 30, 2025. This contract was a sole source acquisition. Fiscal 2025 Air Force operations and maintenance in the amount of $25,009,233 are being obligated at time of award. The Air Force District of Washington, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, is the contracting activity (FA7014-25-F-0190). ARMY Mead & Hunt, Dlz, & Olsson JV, Middleton, Wisconsin (W912ES-25-D-A001); and HDR Bergmann JV, St. Louis Park, Minnesota (W912ES-25-D-A002); and Jacobs-AECOM-St. Paul A JV, Arlington, Virginia (W912ES-25-D-A003); and HNTB-Arcadis River Solutions JV, Kansas City, Missouri (W912ES-25-D-A004), will compete for each order of the $200,000,000 firm-fixed-price contract for architectural and engineering services. Bids were solicited via the internet with nine received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of July 31, 2030. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul, Minnesota, is the contracting activity. NAVY Northrup Grumman Systems Corp., Melbourne, Florida, is awarded a $140,827,737 modification (P00110) to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N0001918C1037). This modification adds scope to provide non-recurring engineering efforts to support the production of five Japan configuration E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. This modification includes Foreign Military Sales (FMS) to Japan. Work will be performed in Melbourne, Florida (70%); Owego, New York (16%); Liverpool, New York (5%); Baltimore, Maryland (3%); Marlborough, Massachusetts (2%); Orlando, Florida (2%); and various locations within the continental U.S. (2%), and is expected to be completed November 2028. FMS funds in the amount of $140,827,737, will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competed. Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity. Dynetics Inc., Huntsville, Alabama, is awarded a $24,863,649 hybrid, other transaction agreement to manufacture, deliver, and support six Medium Range Air Defense Radar Production Representative Model systems. The hybrid agreement also covers other direct costs and associated engineering, new equipment training, reach back support, and program management support, all necessary materials, and supplies. Work will be performed at Huntsville, Alabama (87.5%); and Woodlake, California (12.5%), and is expected to be completed in September 2027. The maximum dollar value is $24,863,649. America's Mid-Band Initiative Team Spectrum 5G (AMBIT/5G) funds in the amount of $12,972,729; and fiscal 2025 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $11,890,920, are obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The requirement was procured under the authority of 10 U.S. Code 4022 as a follow-on agreement to the prototype agreement M67854-23-9-0023. Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-25-9-0122). Metalex Manufacturing Inc. (Metalex),* Cincinnati, Ohio, is awarded a $10,592,560 cost-plus-incentive-fee and cost-plus-fixed-fee completion contract (N0016725C0007) for the qualification and machining of improved advanced hybrid rotors. Work will be performed in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is expected to be completed by October 2027. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $33,214,154. If all options are exercised, work will continue through August 2031. Fiscal 2025 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $10,592,560 will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured under the authority of 10 U.S Code 3204(a)(3)(A) as implemented by Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-3 via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with one offer received. Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division, West Bethesda, Maryland, is the contracting activity. DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Oshkosh Defense LLC, Oshkosh, Wisconsin, has been awarded an estimated $8,814,253 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for diesel engines. This was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 U.S. Code 3204 (a)(1), as stated in Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The performance completion date is Oct. 5, 2031. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2025 through 2030 Army working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime, Warren, Michigan (SPRDL1-25-D-0065). UPDATE: SDV Office Systems LLC, doing business as SDV Medical,* Fletcher, North Carolina (SPE2D1-25-D-0006, $360,000,000), has been added as an awardee to the multiple award contract for medical equipment and accessories for the Defense Logistics Agency Electronic Catalog, issued against solicitation SPE2DH-21-R-0002 and awarded Feb. 10, 2022. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. *Small business https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4252214/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address MARCORSYSCOM explores cutting-edge boot designs to enhance warfighter lethality US Marine Corps News 18 Jul 2025 | Clinton Firstbrook, MARCORSYSCOM Office of Public Affairs & Communication Marine Corps Systems Command MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- To enhance the lethality of individual Marine warfighters, 25 School of Infantry-West instructors will spend the summer testing a new design for Marine Corps Systems Command's (MARCORSYSCOM) Optional Boot Program. This model, which features lighter weight materials, unique drainage ports for improved breathability, and improved ergonomics to reduce leg and back injuries, follows a similar evaluation that took place earlier this year at Camp Lejeune, N.C., where Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion tested footwear that included advanced orthotic technology. "The entire process takes about six months," explained Todd Towles, team lead for Clothing and Equipment, Combat Service Support Equipment (CSSE). "It's all about determining the fit, form, function, and durability; all at a reasonable price point for the Marines." The Optional Boot Program ensures only the highest-performing footwear makes it to the field. The process begins with a detailed visual inspection assessing color shade consistency, proper height, weight, and overall workmanship. After passing this initial review, boots undergo four months of rigorous field testingworn daily by active-duty Marines in demanding conditions. "Never satisfied with the status quo, the Marine Corps always looks for ways to improve the warfighter experience," said Force Recon Company Senior Enlisted Advisor Master Sgt. Andrew Perryman, 2d Reconnaissance Battalion. "If a product isn't meeting the standard then it's cut from the inventory." Alongside this summer's real-world evaluation, which will determine if the boots dry faster to allow for better foot health, lab testing further validates durability, comfort, and quality, reinforcing the Corps' commitment to providing Marines with superior equipment designed to weather the most challenging missions. "We see the Optional Boot Program as a way to access the best technology and give Marines more options on fit, performance, and availability on the shelves," said Maj. Joshua Foster, project officer for CSSE. "We need a diverse set of vendors to ensure we can sustain the fleet's needsthat has been a serious challenge based on supply chain and quality issues over the last several years." The program office for Combat Support Systems (CSS) plays a crucial role in life cycle management for all clothing and individual equipment issued to Marines supporting global operations. From concept development through testing, procurement, fielding, and sustainment, this office ensures that every item meets the toughest standards for performance and durability in extreme environments. The Marine Corps' rigorous evaluation protocolsoften conducted in the most austere conditionsset a high mark. "Our primary concern is equipping our Marines with quality gear, when they need it," said Towles, a Marine veteran who has worked with MCSC for almost 20 years. "Anything less and we're failing them." "Through joint clothing boards, we can share test data and lessons learned across DoD. We also seek to adopt equipment tested by the other services to save the Marine Corps on costs and evaluation time; especially when tasks or environments are common among service members. It is a great partnership," remarked Foster. This collaboration increases the buying power of the Marine Corps and Joint Force. Illustrating that point, by continuing to push for quality and performance, the CSS team recently identified the delivery of deficient US-made footwear. "Once we discovered the issue, the program office along with the boot vendor did an MCX-enterprise inspection and identified all stock not acceptable by Marine standards," said Towles. Nearly 25 percent of the boots were returned to manufacturersultimately preventing Marines from buying substandard gear. "We were disappointed with them missing the mark, but pleased with their response," said Towles. "Our vendors understand that the Marine Corps has high standards when it comes to our uniform items, even if the materials are part of an optional purchase. The vendors understand the Marine Corps has a high bar and they will be dropped from the program and removed from our shelves if they do not maintain quality." In a briefing last Spring, Col. Paul Gillikin, discussed several key factors impacting this product line such as competition, supply chain, and quality assurance. "Over the last several years, the Marine Corps and Department of Defense has been challenged in uniforms, uniform accessories, personal protective gear, and footwear," said Gillikin, program manager for CSS. "Starting with COVID production and supply chain issues, many of our domestic industry partners could not keep up with demand due to staffing shortfalls, access to materials, or quality." Gillikin, who has served as the program manager for CSS for two years, explained there have been several instances of acute and long-term issues with uniform items while his team sought new, innovative technologies to improve the performance of Marines while lowering costs. "We have a great relationship and a lot of successes with our vendors, however, corrective actions and quality assurance problems with some have been a burden that distracts us from seeking better equipment," he said. "The optional certification program allows us to reach both U.S. and [Trade Agreement Act] manufacturers with a low barrier to entry for vendors and low-cost testing for the Marine Corps. In the long term, an increased number of vendors leads to lower prices and greater innovation. We as a [Department of Defense] enterprise have to be sensitive to that and stimulate a diverse array of manufacturers to include domestic and TAA compliant sources. The bottom line is that the Optional Boot Program incentivizes competition and challenges vendors to actively manage their supply chains and produce the best technology at a lower cost for Marines." Currently, most optional boots that are approved to wear, and available for purchase, fall between $189 to $399 retail. "When I talk with Marines around the fleet, they bring up affordability, access, and quality of materials," said Gillikin. "It's an important factor to Marines, and some are struggling financially. Cost is already a central metric for me, but it takes on a whole different level when you talk with younger Marines that are trying to support a family." To this end, CSS recently screened additional domestic and Trade Agreement Act (TAA) compliant materials. Gillikin also said their communication efforts include potential future needs of the Marines Corps as well. "We expect the next war to be a heavily contested environment where stockpiling and additional sources of supply will be vital," he said. "For risk reduction, my team has war-gamed multiple scenarios for building prepositioning stockpiles using domestic and TAA manufacturers along with direct shipping TAA compliant gear straight into theater during conflict into areas such as the First Island Chain and High North. We need to keep all options on the table - competition directly supports operational effectiveness and readiness." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US and NZ Army Leaders Strengthen Strategic Partnership By U.S. Army Pacific Public Affairs July 22, 2025 WAIOURU, New Zealand -- United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) Commanding General, General Ronald P. Clark, met this week with New Zealand Chief of Army, Major General Rose King, to reaffirm the strong and enduring military relationship between the two nations and advance efforts to bolster security cooperation, readiness, and interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region. Over the course of the senior leaders' and their delegations meeting in Wellington, as well as a visit to the NZ Army's training and cultural home in Waiouru, it reflected the deepening defence relationship between both countries, rooted in shared democratic values and more than a century of military cooperation dating back to the First World War. "Our armies have stood side by side in every major conflict of the past century," said Clark. "Today, that legacy continues as we build the integrated landpower network required to meet today's challenges and preserve peace in the Indo-Pacific." Their meeting underscored not only the historical depth of the U.S.-New Zealand Army partnership, but also the shared commitment to preparing their forces for the challenges of a rapidly evolving regional security environment. "New Zealand values its close and enduring relationship with the US Army," said King. "Our cooperation is not just historical - it's operational, forward-looking, and grounded in trust. Together, we are preparing our forces to meet shared challenges across the region with agility, adaptability and purpose." Discussions focused on building further interoperability, advancing combined readiness initiatives, and the U.S. Army's recent transformation efforts. The leaders emphasised the critical role both armies play in shaping a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially as the region faces evolving threats and strategic competition. The meeting occurred as both nations' armies participated in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia, where close to 700 New Zealand Defence Force troops trained alongside U.S., Australian, and other allied forces. The exercise demonstrated growing interoperability across air, land, maritime, cyber, and space domains. King highlighted New Zealand's commitment to maintaining a modern, combat-ready force capable of deploying globally and regionally. The New Zealand Army - 4,200 active and 2,000 reserve soldiers strong - regularly integrates seamlessly with allied partners across combined missions and operations, supports United Nations peacekeeping operations and delivers humanitarian assistance across the Pacific when called upon. "We know that we can't contribute mass and scale, but we pride ourselves on the quality of our soldiers and our leaders, who regularly deploy to, and add significant value to multinational deployments and operations," King said. "To that end, it's been great to be able to share some insight with Clark and his team around how we go about training our people." As part of its publicly announced modernisation efforts through the New Zealand Government's Defence Capability Plan, the New Zealand Army is pursuing upgrades to its Javelin anti-tank missile system, investing in a Network Enabled Army to improve its digital communications and command-and-control interoperability, and planning the replacement of aging vehicle fleets to enhance mobility and sustainment in the field. "New Zealand is a stalwart partner in the Pacific," said Clark. "Whether in exercises like Talisman Sabre or standing shoulder to shoulder in peacekeeping operations, our soldiers share trust built on action, not just words." This sentiment was echoed by Major General King, who emphasised the operational value of combined training and the practical steps both armies are taking to improve regional preparedness. "Participating in Talisman Sabre alongside U.S. and Australian forces showcases our commitment to operational readiness and deepening interoperability," said King. "These exercises strengthen our collective capability to respond quickly and effectively in the regionwhether in conflict, crisis, or humanitarian need." Both generals acknowledged the strategic importance of the Pacific Islands region and affirmed their role in promoting regional security, development, and sovereignty. This visit underscored the enduring strength of the US-New Zealand partnership - one forged in the trenches of the First World War, battle-tested in the Pacific during the Second World War and reaffirmed today through shared purpose and mutual respect. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Swiss Government Press release Published on 22 July 2025 Bern, 22.07.2025 -- Switzerland is procuring five IRIS-T SLM systems for ground-based air defence. These will protect the population from medium-range threats from the air. The procurement is part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI). The contract for Switzerland has now been signed between the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the German Armed Forces and the manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG, after the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse gave authorisation to do so. An important milestone for the integrated air defence of Switzerland was achieved with the signing of the contract for cooperative procurement of IRIS-T SLM systems as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI). The prerequisite for cooperative procurement of the systems as part of the Initiative was participation in a programme agreement, approved by the Federal Council on 20 June 2025 and signed by National Armaments Director Urs Loher. With this programme agreement, Switzerland authorised the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the German Armed Forces (BAAINBw), to sign the procurement contract with Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG for Switzerland. Protection from medium-range threats With five IRIS-T SLM systems, the Swiss Armed Forces is closing a key capability gap and strengthening resilience to modern threats from the air. The system supplements the procurement of the combat aircraft F-35A and the ground-based air defence Patriot for longer ranges. The future system for medium-range ground-based air defence (GBAD MR) will be operated as a part of the Integrated Air Defence (IAD). It aims to repel air threats at various distances and flight altitudes, in particular combat aircraft, drones and cruise missiles. The system will operate both in separate as well as in joint air defence zones with combat aircraft and have a high survivability rate. One important goal is to establish the geospatial cruise missile defence as well as an early warning capability against rocket, mortar and artillery attacks (RAM). The system will also take over tasks of the short-range anti-aircraft gun, which is to be decommissioned. An offset agreement has been concluded between armasuisse and the German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG. This includes the obligation of executing compensation transactions to the usual extent and according to the offset policy of armasuisse with Swiss companies. A guarantee credit of 660 million Francs was approved for GBAD MR in the 2024 armament programme. According to current planning, the investments amount to 660 million Francs as well as a further 10 million from the PEB credit for development, testing and procurement preparation. The project thus remains within the planned financial framework. The contract value for cooperative procurement of IRIS-T SLM systems as part of the programme agreement European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) amounts to around 500 million Francs. In addition to the five IRIS-T SLM systems, the cooperative procurement contract also includes the provision of logistics vehicles for mobile repair, the provision of spare parts as well as the loading and unloading of guided weapons. In addition, spare parts, test devices, guided weapons, a training station and an initial training for the Swiss Armed Forces will be provided. IRIS-T SLM systems The system IRIS-T SLM from the German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG is one of the most powerful medium-range air defence systems worldwide. It offers operating ranges of up to 40 kilometres and reaches heights of up to 20 kilometres. The system has simultaneous multi-target engagement capability and with the TRML-4D sensor from Hensoldt possesses the latest AESA radar technology (Active Electronically Scanned Array). The open architecture also enables integration in national system landscapes. The modular construction allows for flexible scaling, from selective object protection to comprehensive spatial protection. Project "GBAD MR" The project "GBAD MR" is a procurement project for renewing important anti-aircraft systems of the Swiss Armed Forces. The renewal will close an existing gap in capability in the defence of stand-off weapons, to combat approaching targets at a medium distance and thus expand long-range ground-based air defence with the Patriot system. Systems currently in use will soon reach the end of their useful life. The project GBAD MR started in 2019 and is currently in the conceptual stage. It will be carried out as an accelerated procedure, also known as "fast track", and is scheduled for completion in 2032. Where possible, the system will be procured in the standard configuration of the country of origin (Germany). Adjustments will only be made where they are necessary for the connection to existing Swiss systems, for example regarding operational picture and C2 systems. According to current planning, the first fire unit will be delivered from the end of 2028. Further fire units and logistical resources, and gradually system integration, will be delivered in the years 2029 to 2031. Career military personnel will be trained from 2027, while the militia will be trained or retrained on the systems from 2029. The logistical and training infrastructures will be built up between 2028 and 2031. The capability will also be built up gradually. Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for operations as part of the maintenance of air sovereignty (PASO) should be achieved as quickly as possible. Full Operational Capability (FOC) will be achieved after delivery of the last fire unit and comprehensive trials and readiness testing. Taiwan says aid to Israeli settlement still under discussion ROC Central News Agency 07/22/2025 04:45 PM Taipei, July 22 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Tuesday that a potential donation to a medical project in an Israeli settlement is still under discussion and would be focused solely on humanitarian assistance, amid concerns it could violate international norms. At a news briefing in Taipei, MOFA spokesperson Hsiao Kuangwei () said discussions about the donation were still ongoing and centered solely on humanitarian and medical cooperation. Taiwan is not involved in investment or trade activities in the area, he said. Hsiao's comments came days after the South China Morning Post cited experts as reporting that Taiwan's pledged donation to the Nanasi Medical Center in Sha'ar Binyamin, located in the occupied West Bank north of Jerusalem, could violate international law. The report also indicated that Taiwan could become the first foreign government to make a direct financial contribution to Israeli settlements. The international community generally regards Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal under international law, a position the Israeli government disputes. According to the spokesperson, discussions on medical cooperation in the West Bank began during a visit by Taiwan's representative to Israel, Abby Lee (), to the Binyamin Regional Council in early July, at the invitation of Israeli lawmaker Ohad Tal. Tal, a member of the far-right National Religious Party-Religious Zionism, also visited Taiwan in May. While Taiwan is not a member of the World Health Organization (WHO), it continues to uphold the agency's principle of promoting public health across borders, Hsiao said. He added that healthcare has been been a key focus of cooperation since Taiwan and Israel signed an agreement on the issue in 2006. Taiwan hopes to offer humanitarian assistance to people worldwide who lack access to medical resources, he said, adding that this was the purpose of Lee's visit to the Israeli settlement. (By Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/kb NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address United States Unseals Civil Action Filed Against Approximately $2M in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising Tuesday, July 22, 2025 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs The Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia today announced the unsealing of a civil forfeiture action against approximately $2 million dollars in digital currency held by Tether Limited (Tether) and Binance Holdings LTD (Binance) accounts connected with Buy Cash Money and Money Transfer Company (BuyCash), a Gaza-based money transfer business that was involved in financially supporting Hamas - a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) - as well as its agents and collaborators. "Terrorist organizations like Hamas and their affiliates rely on shadowy financial networks to fund their deadly operations," said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. "By seizing millions in cryptocurrency, the Justice Department is aggressively dismantling the financial infrastructure of terrorism and refusing to allow our digital currency platforms to become safe havens for terrorist financing." "The forfeiture action executed today is an example of how diligently our office works to prevent any actions from taking place that support foreign terrorist organizations," said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. "Our partnership with other law enforcement agencies strengthens us to uphold the safety of the American people from entities that threaten the security of our citizens." "The forfeiture action unsealed today demonstrates that no matter what lengths terrorism financers take to obscure their illegal transactions, the FBI will aggressively disrupt the transmission of illicit proceeds intended to support designated terrorist organizations like Hamas," said Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office. BuyCash, and one of its owners, Ahmed M. M. Alaqad, have been suspected of supporting various terrorist organizations including Hamas, ISIS, Al-Qaida affiliates and others. After the October 2023 attacks on Israel, BuyCash and Alaqad were designated as having materially supported Hamas under Executive Order 13224 by the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). Since 2017, BuyCash and Alaqad have supported several foreign terrorist organizations. In 2017, BuyCash was used for the procurement of large quantities of online infrastructure on behalf of ISIS. In September 2019, BuyCash was used to receive funds from a known Al-Qaida affiliate. In 2019, law enforcement identified various instances where BuyCash, with the direct support of Alaqad, directly aided in the transfer of fiat currency to known individuals and entities in support of Hamas. In June 2021, Israel's National Bureau for Counter Terrorist Financing seized various digital currency accounts connected to Hamas and the Izz-al-Din Qassam Brigades, including one involving BuyCash. The complaint describes a detailed scheme whereby users utilized BuyCash to fund accounts held by Tether and Binance to obfuscate their financial support of international terrorist organizations, including Hamas. Before and after the October 2023 attacks, one account was reported to have received at least $4 million to support Hamas. The government's forfeiture action targets multiple accounts previously seized from Tether and Binance connected to BuyCash and removed approximately $2 million dollars from streams of funds supporting international terrorism. A civil forfeiture complaint contains mere allegations. The burden to prove forfeitability in a civil forfeiture proceeding is upon the government. The FBI Washington D.C. Field Office is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rajbir S. Datta and Thomas Saunders for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Allison Ickovic of the Criminal Division's Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Deputy Chief Alicia Cook of the National Security Division. Critical assistance was provided by Paralegal Specialists Brian Rickers, Gina Torres, and the Department of Justice's Office of International Affairs. Topics: Counterterrorism National Security Components: Criminal Division Criminal - Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section Criminal - Office of International Affairs Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Security Division (NSD) USAO - District of Columbia Press Release Number: 25-768 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli regime kills 14 Palestinians in western Gaza IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 The Israeli regime's warplanes bombarded Palestinian refugees at Al-Shati camp, resulting in 14 deaths and several injuries in western Gaza, according to Lebanon's Al Mayadeen TV channel. The Health Ministry in Gaza also reported that the Israeli regime has killed 100 Palestinians per day in direct attacks over the past three months, as reported by Qatar's Al Jazeera TV network. According to the ministry, the average death toll among children in Gaza has been 28, as the number of those affected by starvation continues to grow. Over the past 48 hours, 20 people lost their lives due to severe hunger. Dozens of children have been affected by Guillain-Barre syndrome, but there is no possibility of treating them. The World Health Organization declared on Monday that the Israeli regime raided one of its buildings in Deir al-Balah City, located in the center of the Gaza Strip, which was the residence of its staff. The organization also stated that during this raid, its medical equipment warehouse was completely destroyed. UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, Michael Fakhri, warned about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. He described the situation as horrific, saying that such hunger is unprecedented in modern world history. Secretary-General of the [Persian] Gulf Cooperation Council, Jasem Al Budaiwi, condemned the intensification of the blockade on the Gaza Strip by the Israeli regime. He held the regime directly responsible for the humanitarian disaster in the besieged region. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign minister: Gaza remains a symbol of resistance and oppression IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in a message has described attacking lines of starving people waiting to receive a piece of bread, a sip of water, and humanitarian aid as a clear example of war crime and crime against humanity. Gaza remains a symbol of resistance and oppression, and it has once again been proven by the astonishing and tireless perseverance of its men, women, and children amid the 22 months of crimes committed by the terrorist Israeli regime, Araqchi wrote on his X account on Monday. The criminal Israelis have spared no means, not even the shameless tactic of imposing forced thirst and hunger on the defenseless people of Gaza. Yet, as always, they have failed to break their firm determination, he added. The international community and the so-called human rights advocates in the West must be held accountable for the bloodshed of 1,000 innocent people trapped in the U.S. and Israeli regime's death traps at aid distribution centers, as well as for over 600 needy individuals who have fallen victim to the cruel 140-day siege due to shortages of medicine, food, and water in Gaza, Araqchi said. History and awakened human consciences will rightly judge this inaction, he stated. 9376**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran and Turkey call for urgent action to stop Israeli crimes in Gaza IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, have stressed the need for immediate end to the Israeli genocide of Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip. Araqchi and Fidan discussed and exchanged views on bilateral issues as well as regional and international developments during a telephone call, late on Monday. The talks specifically focused on the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza amid intensified Israeli attacks against the defenseless Palestinians, as well as the regime's military aggression against Syria. The top Iranian diplomat strongly condemned the ongoing Israeli crimes and genocide in Gaza, especially by depriving them of water and food. He called for serious mobilization and action by Islamic countries, including by holding a summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and activating a regional consultative mechanism to stop the genocide and confront Israel's warmongering. The Turkish foreign minister, who holds the chairmanship of the OIC, also denounced the crimes and aggressions of the Israeli regime against Gaza and Syria, emphasizing a coordinated action by Islamic countries to stop these criminal actions. 4399**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Aboul Gheit welcomes joint statement urging immediate cessation of war in Gaza: "The statement reflects a global consensus. What is now needed is to translate words into action and pressure" League of Arab States Date: 22/07/2025 Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, welcomed the statement issued on 21 July by 25 countries, including 18 member states of the European Union, as well as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, Japan, Norway, and New Zealand, calling for an immediate end to the war on Gaza. The statement noted that "the suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new levels of depth," and unequivocally condemned "the inhumane killing of civilians, including children, while trying to meet their basic needs for water and food." Gamal Roshdy, the Secretary-General's official spokesperson, quoted Mr. Aboul Gheit as saying that the statement reflects a global consensus rejecting the continuation of Israel's ethnic cleansing plan, which has reached unprecedented levels of dehumanisation and disregard for human life. What is needed now is to translate words into action and apply real pressure on the occupying power to stop the ongoing massacre of Palestinians in Gaza, especially after the number of victims killed outside aid distribution centers exceeded 800shot in cold blood while waiting for the bare minimum required for survival. The spokesperson stated that Israel is acting with extreme cruelty to implement its forced displacement strategy, through the daily killing of Palestinians and rendering their continued presence in the Strip untenable by means of starvation, denial of basic necessities, evacuation orders, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. He added that the international community must take meaningful and effective steps to end this ongoing massacre and to confront the occupying power's blatant, shameful, and unprecedented defiance of international humanitarian law, which disregards even the most fundamental humanitarian principles. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address As part of the international momentum generated under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, in support of Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara and the Autonomy Plan, the Portuguese Republic expresses "its full support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the most serious, credible and constructive basis to settle this dispute." Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tuesday 22 July 2025 This position was expressed in the Joint Statement signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, and the Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, following their meeting on Tuesday in Lisbon. Portugal recognizes the importance of this issue for Morocco, as well as the serious and credible efforts undertaken by the Kingdom within the framework of the United Nations to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, the Joint statement notes. The two ministers reaffirmed their support for UN Security Council Resolution 2756, which emphasizes the role and responsibility of the parties in seeking a realistic, pragmatic and lasting political solution based on compromise, the document adds. Through its new stance, Portugal sends a clear message reflecting its adherence to the international consensus around Morocco's autonomy Plan, in line with the strong international dynamic driven by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Security Council Adopts Pakistan-Sponsored Resolution on Peaceful Settlement of Disputes Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs The Security Council today unanimously adopted Pakistan-sponsored resolution on "Strengthening Mechanisms for Peaceful Settlement of Disputes". The adoption of the resolution in the Security Council session, presided over by the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, is a noteworthy development. The resolution is an important contribution to the promotion of international peace and security through the use of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention measures and dispute resolution by peaceful means. The Security Council Resolution 2788 (2025) seeks to strengthen mechanisms for peaceful settlement of disputes, as envisaged in Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter, and urges member states to utilize peaceful means for settling disputes. The resolution calls upon the member states to take necessary measures for the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions for peaceful settlement of disputes. Member states and the United Nations have been encouraged to explore ways and means to prevent disputes from escalating including but not limited to timely diplomatic efforts, mediation, confidence-building and facilitation of dialogue at the international, regional and subregional levels. The resolution calls for enhancing efforts by all regional and subregional organizations for peaceful settlement of disputes and to strengthen cooperation between these organizations and the United Nations. As an active member of the Security Council, Pakistan seeks to contribute to the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security including through peaceful settlement of disputes. The adoption of Pakistan-sponsored resolution would serve as an important instrument to achieve these goals for peace and security at the regional and global level. Islamabad 22 July 2025 216/2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 28 countries condemn Israel over "suffering of civilians in Gaza" People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 15:29, July 22, 2025 LONDON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-eight countries and the European Union Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management issued a joint statement on Monday, condemning Israel for the suffering of civilians in Gaza. "The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths. We condemn the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians," said the statement. "It is horrifying that over 800 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid." "The Israeli Government's denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable. Israel must comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law," the statement added, urging an immediate end to the war in Gaza. The statement called on the Israeli government to "immediately lift restrictions on the flow of aid and to urgently enable the UN and humanitarian NGOs to do their life-saving work safely and effectively." Signed by the foreign ministers of Britain, France, Italy, Canada, Japan, and other Western countries, the statement also opposes any attempts to alter the territorial or demographic status of the occupied Palestinian territories. In response, the Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected the statement as being "disconnected from reality" and accused Hamas of being "the only party responsible for the lack of a deal for the release of hostages and a ceasefire." "The statement fails to focus the pressure on Hamas and fails to recognize Hamas's role and responsibility for the situation," the ministry said in an announcement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Marcos admin unwavering in asserting PH rights over WPS Philippine News Agency By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora July 22, 2025, 7:53 pm MANILA -- The Philippines will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights and interests over the West Philippine Sea. This was the commitment President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. promised to the Filipino people in his 3rd State of the Nation Address - a policy statement that continues to guide government action over the resource-rich water. In instances where Philippine maritime missions are met with aggressive and dangerous Chinese actions, Manila is unyielding in airing its strong protest. Equally committed to maintaining peace without compromising the country's position, the Marcos administration exerts the same amount of effort at defusing tensions by keeping its communication lines for dialogue open. More tangibly, Marcos in the past year signed two laws - the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act - effectively reinforcing the Philippines' sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over the West Philippines Sea. The Philippine Maritime Zones Act had explicitly defined the extent of the country's internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone, and continental shelf that are fully in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, which favored the Philippines and invalidated China's "nine-dash line" claim. The Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, meanwhile, designates the sea lanes and air routes suitable for the continuous and expeditious passage of foreign ships and aircraft through or over its archipelagic water and the adjacent territorial sea. The law was signed to prevent arbitrary international passage in the Philippine archipelago. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is also advancing the standard naming of the 131 features in the Kalayaan Island Group. Before the Chief Executive's 4th SONA on July 28, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) would sustain a Philippine maritime policy that is firmly rooted on international law. "Being on the right side of the rules-based order and international law makes it easier for others to join us in taking a stand and forming a tight bond that can withstand illegal and unfounded claims and aggressive actions at sea," she said in her first keynote remarks on maritime perspectives as the new Philippine chief diplomat on July 11. "The waters may continue to be rough and turbulent, but together we can steady the sails and navigate through obstacles, as we defend the rules-based order in the maritime domain," she added. In her recent press engagement, Lazaro said the Philippines would also leverage partnership and alliances with like-minded countries to bolster the country's position and at the same time strengthen its capacities. As the country deepens security cooperation with several states, it has since forged a number of visiting forces agreements and at least 11 bilateral maritime dialogues. It also established the historic trilateral maritime dialogue with Japan and the United States and grew the number of states joining its multilateral maritime cooperative activities in the West Philippine Sea. "All of these demonstrate that the Philippines does not stand alone, and can rely on its partners in order to maintain regional peace and security," Lazaro said. On the multilateral front, the official said Manila is similarly committed to the conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea by 2026. The COC had been in the works for years and, if adopted between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), would provide a set of rules to manage tension in the disputed South China Sea. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Korea hopes to deliver first 3 of 12 fighter jets to PH by 2028 Philippine News Agency By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora July 22, 2025, 6:02 pm MANILA -- South Korea is shooting to deliver the first three of the 12 FA-50 Block 70 light combat aircraft to the Philippines before the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s term in 2028, South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa said on Tuesday. The Philippines last month signed the USD700 million contract to acquire the 12 fighter jets from Korea Aerospace Industries, Ltd. (KAI) as it seeks to enhance its air defense capabilities. "This additional purchase, the 12 FA-50s, we believe it will make a significant improvement also for the Air Force of the Philippines," Lee said in a luncheon meeting with the press in Makati City. "The first batch will be delivered, we hope, before the end of the term of the Marcos administration." The comprehensive package includes mission equipment, integrated logistics support, and a training and logistics information system. The Korea-made combat jet represents the latest evolution of the FA-50 platform, featuring advanced avionics, modern radar systems, and extended operational range. Its delivery will be carried out in phases over the next five years, with full completion targeted by 2030. South Korea and the Philippines' defense cooperation continues to grow as the two nations elevated their partnership into a "strategic" one in October 2024. On top of the additional 12 combat jets, the Philippines recently acquired the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), built by South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries. Amid global instability, Lee assured Filipinos that South Korea would stand as a "reliable partner" of the Philippines. "As fellow maritime nations, we share an abiding interest in maintaining peace and stability, as well as upholding a rules-based order in the South China Sea and beyond," he said. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Araghchi: Iran to continue repatriating undocumented Afghans respectfully Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 7:01 PM Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reaffirmed Iran's commitment to repatriating Afghan refugees residing in the country without proper legal documentation, calling on the international community to fulfill its responsibilities and provide the required assistance in this matter. Araghchi made the remarks during a meeting with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi in Tehran on Tuesday, as they discussed the latest status of interactions between the two sides, including concerning Afghan refugees. Highlighting the country's decades-long role in hosting Afghan refugees, Araghchi underscored the Iranian government's commitment to facilitating their voluntary return and providing a dignified repatriation process for those residing without valid documents. The top Iranian diplomat also put a premium on cooperation between Afghanistan and the United Nations to expedite the process of repatriating illegal nationals and to create employment and living opportunities for Afghan citizens in their own country. Grandi, for his part, expressed gratitude for Iran's long history of excellent cooperation with the UNHCR and its service to Afghan refugees. He also presented a report on his recent visit to Kabul and discussions with officials of the acting Afghan government regarding the situation of Afghan refugees in Iran and the process of their voluntary return to Afghanistan. Grandi expressed hope that, given the cooperation and coordination between the two neighboring countries, the voluntary return of Afghan nationals would proceed in a manner that upholds their rights and dignity. Iran began deporting Afghan refugees in late June following the 12-day Israeli war of aggression against the country. On Sunday, Malek Hosseini, who leads employment affairs at Iran's Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare, said that less than 700,000 Afghan refugees have left Iran as part of a program to deport the refugees. The official said that less than 10% of the Afghan refugees, or nearly 434,000 people, have the legal documents to live and work in Iran. The comments come against the backdrop of reports suggesting that Iran has been deporting Afghan refugees on a mass scale after some Afghan nationals were arrested on charges of facilitating the Israeli aggression on Iran. Iranian security officials say the Afghans arrested in recent weeks are suspected of involvement in sabotage and espionage operations carried out by the Israeli regime in Iran. However, economic experts have warned that any plan for the mass deportation of Afghans from Iran could seriously harm the country's labor market. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas decries regional 'silence' as Gaza faces catastrophic hunger Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 6:40 PM The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has voiced surprise at the "silence" of Arab and Islamic countries amid Israel's ongoing genocidal campaign and deliberate starvation of civilians across the Gaza Strip. In a statement released on Tuesday, Hamas said the 'deafening silence' of the Muslim rulers emboldens "war criminal" Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to persist in his policies of "starvation and genocide." "We are appalled by the official Arab and Islamic silence in the face of the systematic genocide and criminal starvation policies inflicted upon our people in Gaza." Hamas added that official responses and positions from Arab and Islamic states fall far short of the scale of the catastrophe confronting more than 2.25 million people in Gaza. "We affirm that the official reactions do not match the magnitude of the disaster facing two and a quarter million human beings," the resistance movement stated. The Palestinian group reiterated its rejection of all forms of normalization with the occupying Israeli regime. "We demand that Arab and Islamic nations sever all forms of ties with the fascist occupation entity, close its embassies, and expel Zionist ambassadors. Hamas also strongly censured the US-led push for the normalization of Arab-Israeli relations. "We demand abolishing all normalization agreements, isolating and ostracizing this criminal entity, and forcing it to halt its crimes against our oppressed Palestinian people." The resistance movement also said that the time had come to break the chains, open the crossings, and deliver relief to the starving people in the blockaded territory. "Our people are starving and dying of hunger while thousands of aid trucks are piling up on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing." The statement comes as Gaza's population continues to suffer from a severe shortage of food and essential supplies due to Israel's total aid blockade and relentless aggression. The United Nations has issued a stark warning over the growing food crisis in Gaza, saying starvation is now a "horrific reality" for children and families trapped under Israeli siege. "People in Gaza are starving to death," the UN said in a social media post on Tuesday. It noted that its children's agency, UNICEF, has warned that deadly malnutrition among children is reaching "catastrophic levels". With aid scarcity, many in Gaza are risking their lives daily to access limited food supplies at distribution points run by the controversial US- and Israeli-backed GHF, where more than 1,000 people have been killed since late May. Since the Israeli regime launched its genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza in October 2023, the territory's Health Ministry has reported numerous cases of children dying from starvation and dehydration. By blocking the entry of aid into Gaza, Israel has imposed sweeping restrictions on food, medicine, fuel, and humanitarian relief. As a result, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians now face the threat of death amid widespread starvation and the total collapse of healthcare services. The genocidal war has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and left over 142,000 others injured. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Malnutrition and starvation kills 21 Palestinian children in past 72 hours Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 4:58 PM At least 21 children died from "malnutrition and starvation" across the Gaza Strip in the past 72 hours, the head of the Al-Shifa Hospital confirms. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of the Al-Shifa hospital said on Tuesday that, "These deaths were recorded at various hospitals in Gaza, including Al-Shifa in Gaza City, Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah and Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis." Abu Salmiya warned that new cases of malnutrition and starvation were arriving "every moment" at Gaza's remaining functioning hospitals. "We are heading towards alarming numbers of deaths due to the starvation inflicted on the people of Gaza," he added. Over 900,000 children in Gaza are currently facing hunger, with at least 70,000 entering the stage of clinical malnutrition. Gaza's civil defense agency reported on Sunday that at least three infants died from "severe hunger and malnutrition" in the past week. Various medical sources across Gaza have confirmed that the cases of severe hunger and malnutrition are continuously growing. A "terrifying surge in fatalities" is imminent, they warned, as the humanitarian crisis deepens under the Israeli regime's blockade and ongoing military escalation. They further stressed that patients with chronic conditions including diabetes and kidney disease are increasingly at risk, with many suffering life-threatening complications caused by prolonged starvation. "The deliberate starvation of civilians is causing widespread medical emergencies ... This is not just a crisis, it is a collapse of human survival conditions in Gaza," a Palestinian health worker said. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned on Monday that "the last lifelines keeping people alive are collapsing" in Gaza, and that there were growing reports of adults and children suffering from severe malnutrition. World Food Program's (WFP) Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, who visited Gaza City in early July, called the situation "the worst" that he had ever seen. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), all major regions of Gaza suffer from Phase 4 famine (Emergency Level), which means households have large food consumption gaps, high levels of malnutrition, and excess mortality. On Monday, more than two dozen countries, including Israeli allies, Australia, Britain, Canada, and France, urged an immediate end to the war and the free flow of humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave. Since the start of Israel's genocidal campaign in Gaza on October 7, 2023, the regime has murdered more than 59,106 Palestinians and wounded 142,511, most of whom are children and women. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump withdraws US from UNESCO over Palestine's admission Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 3:45 PM The United States has decided to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the second time for its decision to admit Palestine as a member state. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly announced the decision in a statement on Tuesday. Kelly said the reason was UNESCO's support for initiatives that are considered inconsistent with US interests. "President Trump has decided to withdraw the United States from UNESCO - which supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November," Kelly said. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce also emphasized that remaining in UNESCO is not in its national interests, accusing the organization of having "a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with the America First foreign policy". She went on to say that the admission of Palestine as a member state by UNESCO is viewed as highly problematic and goes against the US policy, contributing to an increase in anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed deep regret over Trump's decision to withdraw from the organization, but added that it was anticipated and UNESCO has prepared for it." She also noted that the agency had taken steps to diversify its funding sources, with only approximately 8% of its budget coming from Washington. The withdrawal from the Paris-based agency is scheduled to take effect on December 31, 2026. The move is a blow to UNESCO, which was founded after World War II with the aim of promoting peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. The US withdrew from UNESCO during Trump's first term but rejoined under former US President Joe Biden. Trump's US withdrawal from UNESCO, which went into effect in late 2018, came seven years after the Obama administration suspended funding to UNESCO after Palestinians were admitted as a member while claiming that the agency promoted "anti-Israeli policy." The US previously withdrew from UNESCO under the Reagan administration in 1984 because it viewed the agency as "mismanaged and corrupt." The US rejoined in 2003, before leaving again under Trump. Washington has persistently tried to block and challenge cultural efforts by other UNESCO members based on its own worldview and self-serving interests. It has also used its influence to represent and defend the openly racist policies of the Zionist regime occupying Palestine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU threatens action as Israel fails to uphold Gaza aid pledges Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 2:02 PM The European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, says "all options are on the table" if Israel fails to deliver on its pledges to facilitate humanitarian aid in Gaza. Kallas said in a post on X on Tuesday that Israel's "killing of civilians seeking aid in Gaza is indefensible." The EU's top diplomat said she spoke with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar "to recall our understanding on aid flow and made clear that the IDF (Israeli forces) must stop killing people at distribution points." Earlier this month, the European Union said it had reached an agreement with Tel Aviv to allow greater access to Gaza. "All options remain on the table if Israel doesn't deliver on its pledges," Kallas warned. According to a document prepared for EU member states and seen by Reuters, the options include suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement which governs trade relations as well as lesser measures such as halting technical cooperation projects. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also wrote on X: "Civilians cannot be targets. Never." "The images from Gaza are unbearable," she said. "Civilians in Gaza have suffered too much, for too long. It must stop now. Israel must deliver on its pledges." Between May 27 and July 21, Israeli forces killed at least 1,054 Palestinians while they were trying to access food at so-called aid distribution points established by the US and Israel, the UN Human Rights Office said Tuesday. "Palestinians in Gaza are dying of starvation or by bullets from the Israeli army while trying to get food, "The horrific physical and psychological deaths and suffering caused by hunger are the result of Israel's interference in aid delivery and the militarization of humanitarian assistance," the statement said. On Monday, the foreign ministers of 28 nations and the EU's humanitarian aid commissioner condemned Israel for "the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel 'intentionally' starving people of Gaza, ignoring ICJ orders to stop: UN official Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 9:46 AM The head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in the occupied Palestine says the Israeli regime is intentionally starving the people of Gaza and ignoring orders from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to stop. "People in Gaza who have survived bombs and bullets are starving. Yesterday, Israeli forces again fired on crowds waiting for aid trucks. Hospitals report >80 people killed," Jonathan Whittall wrote on his X account on Tuesday. He added that "2.1 million people in Gaza are crammed into just 12% of the territory, wasting away without enough food or clean water to survive." "This death and suffering is preventable. And if it's preventable, but still happening, then that suggests to me that it's intentional," he noted. He underscored that more than a year ago, Israel was ordered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) "to not deliberately inflict on Palestinians conditions of life calculated to bring about their physical destruction in whole or in part." According to Whittall, Israel was also ordered to immediately facilitate large-scale humanitarian aid into Gaza through additional land crossings in close cooperation with the UN. "Yet Gaza is being starved. Malnutrition is soaring. Hospitals lack essential supplies and are collapsing under relentless waves of casualties," he noted, adding that "a ceasefire is overdue, but that alone won't end this atrocity. All orders of the court must be implemented." This comes as Israel on Sunday withdrew the residency permit of Whittall who has been an outspoken critic of the Israeli regime's genocidal actions and has condemned the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Since the Israeli regime launched its genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza in October 2023, the territory's Health Ministry has reported numerous cases of children dying from starvation and dehydration. Through its blockade of Gaza, Israel has imposed sweeping restrictions on the entry of food, medicine, fuel, and humanitarian relief. Human rights organizations say the blockade is central to Israel's ongoing campaign of genocide in the Palestinian territory. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands more are at risk of death due to widespread food insecurity and the collapse of healthcare services. According to Gaza's health ministry, the genocidal war has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and left over 142,000 others injured. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen strikes Israel's Ben Gurion airport with 'Palestine 2' hypersonic missile Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 8:09 AM The Yemeni Armed Forces have launched a hypersonic ballistic missile against Israel's key airport in support of Palestinians enduring the occupying regime's brutal aggression on the besieged Gaza Strip. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, Yemen's Armed Forces spokesman, said in a statement on Tuesday that a "Palestine 2" hypersonic ballistic missile targeted Ben Gurion International Airport in the occupied territories "in response to the crime of genocide perpetrated by the Zionist enemy against our people in the Gaza Strip." Saree underlined that the military operation "successfully achieved its goal, thanks to Allah, causing millions of ... usurping Zionists to flee to shelters and halting airport operations." The spokesman also praised Yemen's honorable and historic stance in supporting and backing the oppressed Palestinian people and rejecting foreign hegemony over the Arab and Islamic nation. "Our operations are ongoing and will not cease until the aggression against Gaza stops and the siege is lifted," he added. The strike triggered warning sirens across several areas in the occupied territories early Tuesday morning, with the Israeli military claiming that it had intercepted a missile launched from Yemen. The operation came hours after the Yemeni Armed Forces "successfully" targeted key strategic sites deep inside Israel using five drones. Earlier on Monday, Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a senior member of the Political Bureau of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement, warned that the country will escalate its retaliatory operations if the Israeli regime intensifies its attacks on Yemen. Since the onset of the genocide in October 2023, Yemeni forces have carried out scores of operations in support of the war-hit Gazans, striking targets throughout the occupied Palestinian territories, in addition to targeting Israeli ships or vessels heading towards ports in the territories. The regime launched the war after Gaza's resistance fighters waged the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against the Zionist entity in response to the regime's decades-long campaign of bloodletting and devastation against Palestinians. The regime's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran, Turkey FMs urge Muslim world to take action against ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 6:11 AM Iran and Turkey's foreign ministers have called on the world's Muslim nations to take stern action to help end the Israeli regime's 21-month-long war of genocide on the Gaza Strip. The remarks were made during a Monday phone call between Abbas Araghchi and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, whose country currently holds the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)'s rotating presidency. The former strongly condemned the Zionist regime's escalation of the genocide that has claimed the lives of more than 59,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, since its onset in October 2023. He singled out the regime's depriving Gazans of food and water so it could weaponize starvation to further intensify the warfare's deadly effects. The top diplomat called for serious mobilization and immediate action on the part of Muslim countries, including by convening an OIC summit and activating regional consultative mechanisms that are aimed at stopping the genocide. Such collective efforts should also address the regime's other deadly atrocities throughout the West Asia region, he added, referring to Tel Aviv's simultaneous deadly escalations against Lebanon and Syria, among other countries. For his part, Fidan similarly condemned the Israeli assaults on Gaza and Syria, and stressed the need for prompt and coordinated action by the Muslim nations to halt the regime's acts of deadly aggression. The call came as the regime retains its tight control over the entry of direly-needed supplies into the coastal sliver that has reduced their inflow to almost zero. According to UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, one million children are starving throughout the territory amid the situation. As a supposed means of alleviating the dire situation, the regime has set up so-called aid distribution points throughout Gaza, where hungry Palestinians would swarm in desperate need for food supplies under Israeli gunfire. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas hails UK-led call to end Gaza war, urges 'concrete actions' to stop Israel's starvation policy Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 4:44 AM The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has welcomed a joint statement issued by the United Kingdom and 24 other countries calling for an immediate end to the Israeli regime's war on Gaza and the urgent entry of humanitarian aid. Israeli allies the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada and 21 other countries, plus the European Union, said in a joint statement on Monday that suffering in the Gaza Strip had "reached new depths" and that the war "must end now." In their statement, released on Monday, they condemned "the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children, seeking to meet their most basic needs of water and food." "The Israeli [regime's] aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity," the countries said. "The Israeli [regime's] denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable. Israel must comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law." In a statement later in the day, Hamas said the joint statement's recognition of Israel's starvation policy as a blatant violation of international humanitarian law marks an important step toward global accountability. The resistance movement praised the statement's condemnation of the killing of more than 800 Palestinian civilians at US-Israeli aid distribution points, which it said "confirms the brutality of this mechanism, its criminal objectives of killing and humiliating our people, the urgent need to dismantle it and hold its operators accountable." It said the declaration adds to international recognition of the "fascist occupation government's" systematic violations against civilians, including a starvation campaign that has already killed over 70 children and threatens mass fatalities amid worsening famine. The group called on the signatories to turn their words into "concrete actions" to end the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, halt the genocide, and ensure the immediate and sustained delivery of life-saving aid. Israel launched the war on Gaza after Hamas led a surprise operation against the regime on October 7, 2023, in response to intensified Israeli violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. According to Gaza's health ministry, the genocidal war has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and left over 142,000 others injured. Since late May, 875 people have been killed by Israeli forces in the strip while trying to get food. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah chief slams global silence on Gaza, calls for boycott of Israel Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 7:23 PM The head of the Hezbollah resistance movement has condemned global inaction in response to the genocide in Gaza, urging Arab and Islamic nations to halt all forms of normalization with Israel and to impose sweeping sanctions on the regime. In a statement issued Tuesday, Sheikh Naim Qassem denounced the US-Israeli aggression against Gaza, describing its "excessive savagery, genocide, and starvation" as having "exceeded all human and moral standards." He portrayed the humanitarian catastrophe in the besieged Palestinian territory as a "mass killing of the starved," accusing international leaders and institutions of complicity through their inaction. "It is not enough for twenty-five countries to call for a halt to the war against Gaza," Qassem stated, referring to a joint call made Monday by 25 Western nations, including Britain, France, and Canada, for an immediate ceasefire. "Statements and condemnations do not absolve them of responsibility. What is needed is action, measures to end the massacres and crimes by imposing sanctions on the Israeli entity, isolating it, prosecuting it, and halting all forms of engagement." Qassem emphasized that the primary burden lies with Arab and Islamic governments and peoples, urging them to reject normalization efforts and take tangible steps in support of Palestine. "Stop normalization. Close enemy embassies. Prevent trade exchange. Rally to support Palestine and Gaza, even with the bare necessities of life. When America sees you united and speaking with one voice alongside the Palestinian people, it will retreat," he said. He warned that global silence would be recorded in history as a moment of disgrace, citing the Quran: "Indeed, the wrongdoers will not succeed." "History will inscribe this shame upon the leaders of humanity and their institutions, at a time of cruel starvation and mass killing," he declared. Concluding his message, Qassem issued a warning to those who remain silent: "The injustice of America and Israel will ultimately reach those who remain silent in the face of oppression." The Hezbollah chief said Israel's "savagery and arrogance" would eventually lead to its collapse. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ranking Member Shaheen Statement on U.S. Withdrawal from UNESCO Senate Foreign Relations Committee July 22, 2025 WASHINGTON -- Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on President Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO): "The Trump Administration's decision to withdraw the United States from the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is short-sighted and a win for China. UNESCO works on critical issues from combatting anti-Semitismthe only UN agency with this specific mandateto identifying and maintaining World Heritage Sites. In the United States alone, there are 26 World Heritage Sites across 21 states that boost local economies and celebrate iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, the Everglades and the Grand Canyon. "As I highlighted in the recently released Committee minority report, The Price of Retreat, when President Trump withdrew the United States from UNESCO during his first term, we saw what happened: China became the largest financial contributor, increased its staff at the agency and advanced its Belt and Road Initiative. Since rejoining in 2023based on bipartisan support in Congressthe United States has been able to counter China's influence, including by redirecting UNESCO's digital learning programming away from Chinese control. By being a member of UNESCO, the United States worked to shape global rules on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in line with U.S. values and American business interests, advanced Holocaust education, protected Ukrainian cultural heritage and expanded access to STEM education for women and girls in Africa. "A U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO paves the way for China to advance global tech and AI standards that benefit Chinese companies and products. Not having a seat at the table will come at a cost to American companies and the American people." Under President Biden, the U.S. rejoined UNESCO in 2023 with strong bipartisan backing in Congress not only to support the agency's mission, but to also push back against growing Chinese influence. During the years the U.S. was absent, China filled the leadership vacuum by expanding its financial contributions, staffing presence and policy influence within the agencyparticularly in global education and technology governance. UNESCO plays a central role in setting international standards on artificial intelligence, promoting press freedom and combatting hate speech and Holocaust denial. U.S. participation has ensured that these efforts reflect democratic values and support American interests. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenian Opposition Demands Criminal Case Against Pashinyan Over Threats to Church Sputnik News 20250722 The Armenian Revolutionary Federation opposition party, also known as Dashnaktsutyun, has demanded that the country's Prosecutor General's Office open a criminal case against Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan over his plans to attack the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC). On Sunday, Pashinyan hinted that he was going to hold a rally against the hierarchy of the AAC in Vagharshapat, also known as Etchmiadzin, where its spiritual center is located. He described it as a "spiritual meeting" and called on his supporters to prepare for it. For almost two months, Pashinyan has been demanding the resignation of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, threatening to take concrete actions. "We demand that the Prosecutor General and investigating authorities open a criminal case against Nikol Pashinyan and adduce him as an accused, and that the police and the national security service prevent the head of the executive branch from preparing serious and especially serious crimes, without becoming complicit in large-scale lawlessness," the opposition party said on social media. Dashnaktsutyun said that Pashinyan's planned rally was a preparation for serious and aggravated crimes. Such actions, it said, will obstruct the operations of the spiritual center of the Armenian Church - the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The party said that Pashinyan's appeals contain signs of criminally punishable acts, including the use or threat of violence, hostage-taking of the Catholicos, forcing him to resign, inciting mass unrest. The party urged citizens not to take part in Pashinyan's unconstitutional and illegal provocations, warning that any march on the patriarchal residence could lead to acts of hooliganism, mass unrest and other criminal offenses. Describing the AAC as a cornerstone of Armenian identity and national survival, Dashnaktsutyun said that the public must be ready to defend the church and its clergy by legal means, rejecting any attempt to undermine its authority. Relations between the Armenian authorities and the Armenian Apostolic Church deteriorated after Pashinyan posted offensive remarks about the Church on social media in late May. He proposed changing the procedure for electing the Catholicos of All Armenians and granting the state a decisive role in the process. Businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, who defended the Armenian Apostolic Church, was arrested, sparking outrage among Armenians worldwide. They told Sputnik that the political persecution of the church and its supporters was unacceptable. Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan, head of the Sacred Struggle movement who led protests to demand Pashinyan's resignation in 2024, was also arrested. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The United States Withdraws from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) US Department of State Press Statement Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson July 22, 2025 Today, the United States informed Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the United States' decision to withdraw from UNESCO. Continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States. UNESCO works to advance divisive social and cultural causes and maintains an outsized focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy. UNESCO's decision to admit the "State of Palestine" as a Member State is highly problematic, contrary to U.S. policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization. Continued U.S. participation in international organizations will focus on advancing American interests with clarity and conviction. Pursuant to Article II(6) of the UNESCO Constitution, U.S. withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2026. The United States will remain a full member of UNESCO until that time. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Rubio's Call with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson July 22, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce: Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today. The Secretary and Prime Minister discussed their shared goals for stability and economic growth in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. The Secretary underscored the need for dialogue and regional stability. Secretary Rubio commended Ethiopia's economic reforms, highlighting their potential to expand opportunities for U.S. trade and investment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Sanctions Houthi-Linked Petroleum Smuggling and Sanctions Evasion Network U.S. Department of the Treasury July 22, 2025 WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating two individuals and five entities that profit through money laundering and importing petroleum products into territory controlled by Ansarallah, commonly known as the Houthis. The Iran-backed Houthis gain hundreds of millions of dollars annually by working with Yemeni businessmen to tax petroleum imports, generating critical revenue that funds the Houthis' destabilizing activities in the region. Today's action targets a network of individuals and their companies located across Yemen and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who are among the most significant importers of petroleum products and money launderers that benefit the Houthis. "The Houthis collaborate with opportunistic businessmen to reap enormous profits from the importation of petroleum products and to enable the group's access to the international financial system," said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Michael Faulkender. "These networks of shady businesses underpin the Houthis' terrorist machine, and Treasury will use all tools at its disposal to disrupt these schemes." Today's action is being taken pursuant to the counterterrorism authority Executive Order (E.O.) 13224, as amended, and builds on a series of OFAC actions targeting Houthi revenue generation and weapons procurement over the past year, including on June 17, 2024, July 31, 2024, October 2, 2024, December 19, 2024, March 5, 2025, April 2, 2025, April 28, 2025, and June 20, 2025. The U.S. Department of State designated Ansarallah, commonly known as the Houthis, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) on February 16, 2024, and subsequently re-designated the group as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 5, 2025. HOUTHI PETROLEUM AND FUEL COMPANIES The Houthis work with privately owned companies to ensure continued shipments of petroleum products into areas they control in Yemen. Once in Yemen, the Houthis profit even further by controlling the selling price of these petroleum products to the Yemeni people, typically at a significant markup. Muhammad Al-Sunaydar (Al-Sunaydar), who manages a network of petroleum companies between Yemen and the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most prominent petroleum importers in Yemen. Al-Sunaydar manages Arkan Mars Petroleum Company for Oil Products Imports (Arkan Mars), which has an agreement with the Houthis to import gas and oil, including Iranian petroleum products, for the terrorist group through the Houthi-controlled Hudaydah and Ras Isa ports in Yemen. As of June 2025, Iranian-affiliated companies were involved in facilitating payments between the Iranian government and Houthi-affiliated oil companies, including Arkan Mars. As a part of Al-Sunaydar's network, Arkan Mars Petroleum DMCC and Arkan Mars Petroleum FZE are UAE-based companies associated with Arkan Mars that have been involved in exporting oil to Yemen. All three of the Arkan Mars companies coordinated the delivery of approximately $12 million dollars' worth of Iranian petroleum products with the Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industry Commercial Company (PGPICC) to the Houthis via Ras Isa port in Yemen. PGPICC was designated by OFAC pursuant to E.O. 13382 for being owned or controlled by Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industry Co. (PGPIC). PGPIC was itself designated pursuant to E.O. 13382 that same day for having provided financial support to Khatam al-Anbiya, the engineering conglomerate of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Yahya Mohammed Al Wazir launders and raises money for the Houthis. Between November and December 2024, Al-Saida Stone for Trading and Agencies (Al-Saida) spent approximately six million euros across five payments to purchase bulk coal, presumably to import into Yemen. Al-Saida's public advertisement of itself as a stationery wholesaler in Sana'a, Yemen is at odds with repeated large volume payments for coal and is typical of the behaviors of a front company. Amran Cement Factory is a Houthi-controlled entity that has been providing the terrorist group with money laundering and earning capabilities. In addition, as of March 2025, the Houthis have directed production of cement from Amran Cement Factory to the mountainous Saada region in northern Yemen as part of a larger Houthi effort to develop and fortify military, weapons storage, and ammunitions caches. Muhammad Al-Sunaydar, Arkan Mars Petroleum Company for Oil Products Imports, Arkan Mars Petroleum DMCC, Arkan Mars Petroleum FZE, Yahya Mohammed Al Wazir, Al-Saida Stone for Trading and Agencies, and Amran Cement Factory are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the Houthis. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated or blocked persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked persons. Violations of U.S. sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on U.S. and foreign persons. OFAC may impose civil penalties for sanctions violations on a strict liability basis. OFAC's Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines provide more information regarding OFAC's enforcement of U.S. economic sanctions. In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities involving designated or otherwise blocked persons. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated or blocked person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person. Furthermore, engaging in certain transactions involving the persons designated today may risk the imposition of secondary sanctions on participating foreign financial institutions. OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on opening or maintaining, in the United States, a correspondent account or a payable-through account of a foreign financial institution that knowingly conducts or facilitates any significant transaction on behalf of a person who is designated pursuant to the relevant authority. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, or to submit a request, please refer to OFAC's guidance on Filing a Petition for Removal from an OFAC List. Click here for more information on the persons designated and any property identified as blocked today. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa and the UN, at the UN Security Council debate on peace and security. From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Lord Collins of Highbury Published 22 July 2025 Location: United Nations, New York Delivered on: 22 July 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered) Mr President, the United Kingdom thanks Pakistan for convening this timely debate at a time when multilateralism faces unprecedented strain. As the Secretary-General has said, the world is witnessing more conflict than at any time since the founding of the United Nations. From Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine to the protracted crisis in Gaza, the international community is being tested. Our response must strive for peace and be guided by the principles of the UN Charter. Multilateralism remains the best tool we have to meet the shared challenges of the 21st century. And this Council, as the UN organ with the primary responsibility for international peace and security, should play a central role. That includes through a collective commitment to the rule of law, including international humanitarian law, and to the peaceful settlement of disputes. These are not abstract ideals. They are principles by which we could collectively prevent and resolve conflict. That is why the United Kingdom has kept these principles at the heart of its foreign policy. But as we mark the UN's 80th anniversary, we must seize this moment to revitalise the peace and security architecture, champion human rights, and strengthen the UN development system and humanitarian architecture to ensure all three pillars are collectively fit for purpose. We should make full use of the UN's mediation and conflict prevention capabilities. In Sudan, we continue to urge the warring parties to engage meaningfully with existing diplomatic initiatives, including the United Nations' mediation efforts to achieve a lasting national ceasefire and political solution. Here and elsewhere, we need the UN to help address the root causes of conflict. Peace operations should be more adaptable, politically attuned and better coordinated with other UN and regional actors, leveraging new technologies and local expertise. We must focus not only on brokering peace but on sustaining it. The UN's efforts to verify the implementation of the Peace Agreement in Colombia is a good example of this work in the field. And here in New York, we can make better use of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture to support national efforts to sustain peace. Underscoring this, we must recall that crucially, sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive peace processes, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women. Mr President, the UN Charter is our shared foundation. In this moment of global uncertainty, we must recommit to multilateralism, not as a slogan, but as a strategy. The United Kingdom stands ready to work with all Member States to this end, including to uphold peace, security, and the rule of law. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Peace is a choice': UN chief urges diplomacy as wars spread from Gaza to Ukraine By Vibhu Mishra 22 July - Warning that the world is failing to uphold international law as wars stretch from Gaza to Ukraine, UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres urged all nations to choose diplomacy over division and recommit to settling disputes peacefully. This is the only sustainable path to global security, he told ministers at a high-level open debate of the Security Council on Tuesday. The Secretary-General emphasised that the UN Charter's tools - negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and more - remain a lifeline when tensions escalate, grievances fester and states lose trust in each other. These tools are needed now more than ever, he stressed, as conflicts rage and international law is violated with impunity. "The cost is staggering - measured in human lives, shattered communities and lost futures. We need look no further than the horror show in Gaza - with a level of death and destruction without parallel in recent times." The risk of starvation looms and aid operations are being denied the space and safety to function. UN premises, such as the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the World Health Organization (WHO)'s main warehouse, have been hit despite parties being notified of their locations. "These premises are inviolable and must be protected under international humanitarian law - without exception," Mr. Guterres reiterated. Peace is a choice - make it From Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar, "conflict is raging, international law is being trampled, and hunger and displacement are at record levels," he continued, adding that terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime also remain "persistent scourges" pushing security further out of reach. "Peace is a choice. And the world expects the Security Council to help countries make this choice." Mr. Guterres pointed to the UN Charter's bedrock obligation in Article 2.3 that "all Members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means", and to Chapter VI, which empowers the Security Council to support "negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice." Action 16 of last year's Pact for the Future urges states to recommit to preventive diplomacy, he said, commending Pakistan - the Council President for July - for tabling a resolution encouraging fuller use of those tools, which was adopted unanimously at the meeting. P5 must overcome divisions Security Council members - "in particular its permanent members" - must overcome divisions, the Secretary-General said, reminding them that even during the Cold War, Council dialogue underpinned peacekeeping missions and humanitarian access, and helped prevent a third world war. He urged members to keep channels open, build consensus and make the body "more representative" of today's geopolitical realities with more inclusive, transparent and accountable working methods. Mr. Guterres also urged deeper cooperation with regional and subregional organizations. Mediation can work even amid war, he said, noting that Tuesday marked three years since the signing of the Black Sea Initiative and a related memorandum with Russia that enabled grain movements during the conflict in Ukraine. Renew commitment to multilateralism States must honour their obligations under the Charter and international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law, and uphold the principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence, Mr. Guterres said. "As we mark the 80th anniversary of our Organization and the Charter that gave it life and shape, we need to renew our commitment to the multilateral spirit of peace through diplomacy," he said. "I look forward to working with you to achieve the international peace and security the people of the world need and deserve." Security Council open debate A signature event of the Pakistani presidency, Tuesday's open debate was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The session aimed to assess the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for pacific dispute settlement, examine best practices and explore new strategies for tackling protracted conflicts. It also sought to enhance cooperation with regional organizations, boost capacity-building and resource mobilisation, and align future efforts with the conflict-prevention vision outlined in the Pact for the Future. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza: UN staff now fainting from hunger, exhaustion; WHO worker detained 22 July - Worrying alerts from United Nations staff in the Gaza Strip who have been fainting from hunger and exhaustion over the past 48 hours have increased fears for people's survival in the devastated enclave, UN humanitarians said on Tuesday. "Doctors, nurses, journalists, humanitarians, among them UNRWA staff, are hungry...fainting due to hunger and exhaustion while performing their duties," said Juliette Touma, Director of Communications with the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA. Speaking from Amman, she stressed that seeking food "has become as deadly as the bombardments". The development comes as the UN human rights office, OHCHR, announced on Tuesday that more than 1,000 Palestinians have now been killed by the Israeli military while trying to get food in the Strip since the so-called Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) started operating on 27 May. "As of 21 July, we have recorded 1,054 people killed in Gaza while trying to get food," said OHCHR spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan. "766 of them were killed in the vicinity of GHF sites and 288 near UN and other humanitarian organizations' aid convoys." Mr. Al-Kheetan noted that the finding came from "multiple reliable sources on the ground, including medical teams, humanitarian and human rights organizations. It is still being verified in line with our strict methodology." The foundation's hubs are supported by the US and Israeli authorities and started operating in southern Gaza on 27 May, bypassing the UN and other established non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Aid relief is not a job for mercenaries "The so-called GHF distribution scheme is a sadistic death-trap," UNRWA's Ms. Touma said. "Snipers open fire randomly on crowds as if they're given a license to kill." Quoting a statement by UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini, Ms. Touma called the scheme a "massive hunt of people in total impunity". "This cannot be our new norm. Humanitarian assistance is not the job of mercenaries," she added. The UNRWA spokesperson insisted that the UN and its humanitarian partners have the expertise, experience and available resources to provide safe, dignified and at-scale assistance. "We have proven it time and again during the last ceasefire," she said. Living conditions in the Strip have reached a new low as prices for basic commodities have increased by around 4,000 per cent. For Gaza's inhabitants who have lost their homes and been displaced multiple times, they have no income and find themselves completely deprived of essentials. $200 for a bag of flour Ms. Touma highlighted the testimony of a colleague on the ground who had to walk for hours to buy a bag of lentils and some flour, paying almost $200 for it. On Monday, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said that a quarter of Gaza's population faces famine-like conditions. Almost 100,000 women and children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition and need treatment as soon as possible. Vital everyday items such as diapers are scarce and costly, at about $3 each. Mothers have resorted to using plastic bags instead while one father "said that he had to cut one of his last shirts to give his daughter sanitary pads", Ms. Touma said. "We at UNRWA have stocks of hygiene supplies, including diapers for babies and for adults waiting outside the gates of Gaza," Ms. Touma stressed, insisting that the agency has 6,000 trucks loaded with food, medicines and hygiene supplies waiting in Egypt and in Jordan to be allowed into the enclave. Urgent ceasefire call She reiterated the UN's calls for "a deal that would bring a ceasefire, that would release the hostages, that would bring in a standard flow of humanitarian supplies into Gaza under the management of the United Nations, including UNRWA." Humanitarian operations in the enclave are being pushed into an "ever-shrinking space", said World Health Organization (WHO) spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic. Briefing journalists in Geneva, he condemned three attacks on Monday on a building housing WHO staff in Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza as well as the "mistreatment of those sheltering there and the destruction of its main warehouse". "Staff and their families, including children, were exposed to grave danger and traumatised after airstrikes caused a fire and significant damage," Mr. Jasarevic said, adding that Israeli military entered the premises, "forcing women and children to evacuate on foot" towards the coastal shelter of Al Mawasi amid active conflict. Screened at gunpoint The WHO spokesperson said that staff and family members were "handcuffed, stripped, interrogated on the spot and screened at gunpoint". Two staff and two family members were detained and while three were later released, one WHO employee remains in detention for reasons unknown to the organization. Mr. Jasarevic called for the release of the detained staff member and insisted that "no one should be held without charges and without due process." The latest evacuation order for the area has impacted several WHO premises and compromised its presence on the ground, "crippling efforts to sustain a collapsing health system," Mr. Jasarevic added, and "pushing survival further out of reach for more than two million people". The Israeli military operation in Deir Al-Balah on Monday also caused an explosion and fire inside WHO's main warehouse, which is located within the evacuation zone in the central Gazan city, "part of a pattern of systematic destruction of health facilities", the agency's spokesperson said. According to Gaza's health authorities, since the start of the war in October 2023, some 1,500 health workers have been killed in the Strip. Some 94 per cent of all health facilities have been damaged and half of Gaza's hospitals are "not functional at all", Mr. Jasarevic said. "The chance to prevent loss of lives and reverse immense damage to the health system slips further out of reach every day," he stressed. Visa denials Spotlighting further challenges to the humanitarian operation in Gaza, the WHO spokesperson pointed to an increase in the denial of visas by Israeli authorities for emergency medical teams seeking to enter the Strip since the breakdown of the latest ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on 18 March. He said that 58 international staff for the emergency medical teams, including surgeons and critical medical specialists, have been denied access. UNRWA's Ms. Touma highlighted the fact that ever since the agency's Commissioner-General was denied entry to Gaza in March 2024, he has not been allowed back into the Strip. He has also not received a visa from Israel to enter the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, for more than a year. The UNRWA spokesperson also deplored the lack of access for international media to the enclave. "It certainly is time, if not long overdue, for international media to go into Gaza precisely to look into the facts and to help with reporting first-hand information on the horrors that people in Gaza are living through," she said. Rapid collapse of critical lifelines UN humanitarians continue to highlight the rapid collapse of critical lifelines in Gaza amid ongoing hostilities. Local authorities said more than a dozen children and adults died from hunger in the past 24 hours, UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reported on Tuesday. "Hospitals have admitted people in a state of severe exhaustion caused by a lack of food, and others are said to be collapsing in the streets," it said. "This is on top of continued reports of people being shot, killed or injured while simply trying to find food - food that is only being allowed into Gaza in quantities that are far too small." Furthermore, in many cases where UN teams are permitted by Israel to collect supplies from closed compounds near border crossings, civilians approaching the trucks come under fire, despite repeated assurances that troops would not be present or engage. OCHA said "this unacceptable pattern is the opposite of what facilitating humanitarian operations should look like," underscoring that "absolutely no one should have to risk their life to get food." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN laments US withdrawal from educational and cultural agency 22 July - The United States announced on Tuesday that it will leave the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which will take effect at the end of December 2026. "I deeply regret President Donald Trump's decision to once again withdraw the United States of America from UNESCO," Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of the Paris-based agency, said in a statement. In New York, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that the Secretary-General joins Ms. Azoulay "in deeply regretting the decision by the United States." The US first withdrew from UNESCO in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan and didn't rejoin for two decades. Fourteen years after re-entry, the first Trump administration withdrew from the organization in 2017, but the decision was reversed under President Joseph Biden in 2023. Ms. Azoulay underscored that "this decision contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism," and she highlighted that this decision would affect UNESCO partners in the United States, including communities seeking site inscription. A White House press statement on the withdrawal said the decision had been taken to protect American interests from UNESCO's work to advance "divisive social and cultural causes." The statement also said the organization is focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which it described as "a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy." The statement also specifically cited UNESCO's decision to admit the State of Palestine as a Member State as problematic, contrary to US policy and fuelling the United Nations' "anti-Israel rhetoric". Ms. Azoulay in her statement denied these claims that UNESCO is "anti-Israel," highlighting the organization's work in Holocaust education and combating antisemitism. "UNESCO is the only United Nations agency responsible for these issues, and its work has been unanimously acclaimed by major specialized organizations," she said, including American organizations such as the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC. Diversifying funding in preparation Ms. Azoulay stressed that this announcement was anticipated, and the organization has prepared accordingly, highlighting major structural reforms in recent years, including the diversification of funding sources. "The decreasing trend in the financial contribution of the US has been offset," she explained. Despite the US now representing eight per cent of the organization's budget, UNESCO's budget has steadily increased thanks to donations from member states and private contributors, the latter of which have doubled since 2018. "Today, the Organization is better protected in financial terms," she said. Continuing US partnerships "UNESCO's purpose is to welcome all the nations of the world, and the United States of America is and will always be welcome," Ms. Azoulay emphasised. The organization will continue to work with its US partners in the private, academic and non-profit sectors, and it will pursue discussions with the US Government. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Haiti, Sudan, Ukraine, Afghanistan UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Occupied Palestinian Territory UN facilities struck in Deir al Balah OCHA warns that intense hostilities in Gaza continue with no let-up, as does the rapid collapse of the last lifelines keeping people alive. Earlier today, local health authorities said that in just the past 24 hours, more than a dozen children and adults had died from hunger. Hospitals have admitted people in a state of severe exhaustion caused by a lack of food, and others are said to be collapsing in the streets. This is on top of continued reports of people being shot, killed or injured while simply trying to find food - food that is only being allowed into Gaza in quantities that are far too small. OCHA warns that in many cases where UN teams are permitted by Israel to collect supplies from closed compounds near Gaza's crossings, civilians approaching the trucks come under fire - despite repeated assurances that troops would not be present or engage. This unacceptable pattern is the opposite of what facilitating humanitarian operations should look like. Absolutely no one should have to risk their life to get food. Health facilities, which play a critical role in managing nutrition and casualties, must be supported. Instead, they cannot address these challenges properly, given the decimation of healthcare in Gaza. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with more than 2,000 trauma injuries over the past four days alone, according to the local authorities. Some have reported not having enough intravenous fluids. Due to lack of fuel, the Nasser Medical Complex and the oxygen unit supplying hospitals in the south are at risk of shutting down. In recent days, UN facilities in Deir al Balah were struck. The coordinates of these sites had been shared with all relevant parties to this conflict. In a statement by the World Health Organization (WHO), it was reported that the agency's operations were compromised by the destruction of a warehouse, located within the evacuation zone, and an attack on a facility sheltering staff and their families. The staff residence was attacked three times, exposing employees and families, including children, to grave danger. According to WHO, in addition to air strikes that caused fire and damage, Israeli troops entered the premises. Women and children were forced to evacuate on foot toward Al Mawasi amid active conflict. Male staff and family members were handcuffed, stripped, interrogated and screened at gunpoint. WHO said that one of their employees remained in detention as of earlier today; this is out of four people detained - two personnel and two family members. WHO added that its main warehouse - now destroyed and looted - had been a key hub for medical supplies, most of which are now depleted. The agency said that the attack fits a broader pattern of systematic destruction of health facilities. In a statement, the Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office for Project Services, Jorge Moreira da Silva, reported that the UNOPS premises in Deir al Balah were hit, causing structural damage and cutting off power from both their generator and solar panels. There is also no running water at the site. Mr. Moreira da Silva noted that this is the same location that was hit by a tank in March, when a UNOPS colleague was killed. While about 1,000 families fled in the initial hours after an Israeli displacement order was issued for parts of Deir al Balah over the weekend, no updated estimate is yet available. This is because the teams that normally track population movements are themselves affected: Some have been newly displaced, while others remain under heavy bombardment and face communication blackouts due to cable damage. Colleagues report that - like everyone else in Gaza - they are hungry and exhausted. They can only confirm that many people have fled under fire, and many others have stayed, despite the massive risks, because there is simply nowhere safe to go. About 88 per cent of Gaza is either subject to displacement orders or located within Israeli-militarized zones. The 12 per cent that remains is already overcrowded and underserved. However, the UN remains in Deir al Balah - its hub for humanitarian operations - with staff spread across dozens of premises, all of them with coordinates shared with the parties. UN premises are inviolable, and all civilian objects must be protected under international humanitarian law - in all circumstances. Haiti Thousands flee armed violence in Artibonite department OCHA remains deeply concerned over escalating violence in Haiti's Artibonite department, which has triggered a new wave of displacement. The International Organization for Migration reports that nearly 15,000 people fled after armed attacks on 16 July in the communes of Dessalines and Verrettes. Most sought safety in Poste Pierrot, a remote area of Dessalines, where they are being hosted by local families, putting further pressure on already vulnerable communities. The security situation in the commune of L'Estere is also worsening. Further clashes erupted there between armed groups and local self-defense groups on Saturday, leading to additional displacement and damage to civilian property. This followed a series of coordinated offensives by armed groups between 14 and 17 July across several areas in the Artibonite department, including Liancourt, Jean Denis, Desarmes, Montrouis and Grande-Saline. In addition to casualties, preliminary reports indicate that homes and vehicles were destroyed. Displaced families are in urgent need of hygiene supplies, food, emergency shelter, medical assistance and other essential items. However, OCHA warns that ongoing insecurity continues to severely restrict humanitarian access, making it difficult to reach the most affected communities. In addition to access constraints, this year's humanitarian response plan for Haiti is the least funded of the country appeals coordinated by the UN, significantly limiting efforts to provide life-saving assistance at the required scale.* This latest displacement adds to an already dire situation nationwide. Nearly 1.3 million people are displaced - the highest number ever recorded in Haiti due to violence and insecurity. OCHA reiterates the urgency of scaling up humanitarian support and protection for displaced families in Artibonite and across the country. The UN continues to work with its partners and authorities to improve access, mobilize additional funding, and ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those most in need - despite the increasingly constrained operating environment. *Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Haiti with urgent support. Sudan UN, partners plan scaled-up support for hundreds of thousands displaced in Tawila OCHA reports that the UN and its partners have revised and scaled up plans to respond to the overwhelming needs of more than 380,000 displaced people in the locality of Tawila, in Sudan's North Darfur State. This includes 327,000 people - mostly women and children - who fled the famine-stricken Zamzam camp and surrounding areas following the outbreak of hostilities in mid-April. The updated plan aims to increase life-saving assistance over the next three months, with a focus on food, healthcare, water, sanitation, shelter and protection. An estimated US$120 million is urgently needed to implement the plan and scale up the response, which has been unable to keep up with growing needs, despite relatively reliable access to the area for the UN and its partners. The health situation in North Darfur is also deteriorating rapidly. Humanitarian partners warn that cholera, measles, malaria and trauma cases are surging in Tawila, as well as in El Fasher and Kebkabiya. Widespread internet disruptions and a lack of rapid diagnostic tests are severely hindering disease surveillance, while insecurity has forced the closure of more than 32 health facilities. Critical shortages of vaccines, essential medicines and surgical supplies are pushing the health system to the brink, leaving thousands without access to life-saving care. Meanwhile, displacement continues to take a deadly toll. The government's Humanitarian Aid Commission in Northern State reported that last week, 17 displaced people - including women and children - died of thirst and dehydration after their vehicle broke down in the desert. The group was fleeing conflict in Tina, North Darfur, en route to Ad-Dabah. In total, more than 40 people were reported missing during the nearly three-week journey across unforgiving terrain, underscoring the extreme risks civilians face when fleeing violence. In South Darfur, markets are reeling from sharp price increases, driven by flooding and seasonal rivers that have cut off supply routes from Chad and Northern State. In Nyala, the state capital, the price of a 50-kilogram sack of sugar has reportedly risen by 21 per cent in just one month, while wheat flour prices have jumped by 31 per cent - deepening food insecurity for already vulnerable families. The hunger crisis in Sudan is having a disproportionate impact on women. Food insecurity is deepening fastest among households headed by women, with severe hunger nearly doubling in just one year - from 14 per cent in 2024 to nearly 26 per cent earlier this year. Today, three quarters of female-headed households in Sudan are food insecure, and nearly half report poor food consumption - almost double the rate from the year before, according to assessments by the UN and its partners. Meanwhile, the UN remains deeply concerned over escalating violence in the Kordofan region. In West Kordofan State, at least five civilians were killed and several others injured in drone strikes on fuel markets in Al Fula and Abu Zabad towns yesterday, according to local reports. Massive fires destroyed both markets, sparking panic among the population. OCHA urgently calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel, unimpeded access across conflict lines and borders, and increased international support to address the spiraling humanitarian needs across Sudan. Ukraine Civilian casualties, widespread damage reported after latest attacks OCHA reports that hostilities in Ukraine yesterday and into the early hours of today killed at least five civilians, including a child, and injured 76 others, including four children, according to authorities. Widespread damage was reported across Ukraine, with numerous residential buildings, a theatre, a church, three schools, a shopping centre, a petrol station, agricultural property, and more than a dozen civilian vehicles destroyed or damaged. Essential services were also disrupted. Meanwhile, strikes in the Sumy and Donetsk regions, in the east of the country, continue to drive displacement. OCHA warns that the humanitarian situation in the town of Pokrovsk and nearby villages in the Donetsk region is worsening as fighting nears. Authorities say all critical infrastructure has been destroyed, and about 1,400 people remain, with most of them taking shelter in basements. Local authorities are maintaining a few water points and distributing food and medicine, but fuel delivery is impossible, and the last shops are expected to close. Authorities are urging civilians to evacuate, although these efforts are highly constrained and carried out by specialized police in armoured vehicles. Humanitarian partners are supporting evacuees in transit centres with cash and other assistance. In the Dnipro region, support from the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund is helping aid organizations assist newly displaced people at a transit centre in Pavlohrad City. This includes providing psychosocial support, legal aid, and help with recovering lost documents. Last week, nearly 400 people, including over 80 children, received aid at the centre, which now supports more than 200 people daily. Afghanistan UN Relief Chief fast-tracks support amid surge in returns from Iran Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher has allocated $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to scale up life-saving assistance at Afghanistan's border, amid an alarming surge in returns from Iran in recent weeks. The new funding will help expand support for the most vulnerable - including women and children - as they arrive and in their areas of return. During the first 12 days of July alone, some 339,000 people returned from Iran to Afghanistan, according to UN agencies - bringing the total number to 1.1 million so far this year. Families account for over 60 per cent of the total returns from Iran, and 43 per cent of those returning are children under the age of 18, including a growing number of unaccompanied and separated children - raising serious protection concerns. The majority of the recent returnees are traveling onward to the urban centres of Herat and the capital Kabul, and many need urgent support. The new arrivals are also putting further pressure on already vulnerable host communities, as services are limited and resources scarce in many areas where people are returning. The UN and its partners are responding to the escalating needs wherever and whenever possible. So far this year, nearly 600,000 people have received food assistance at the border upon their return, with over 500,000 receiving health support. However, additional funding is sorely needed. Halfway through the year, the Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for Afghanistan is less than a quarter funded, with a funding gap of over $1.8 billion. OCHA continues to call on donors to support the people of Afghanistan. Posted on 22 July 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Adopting Resolution 2788 (2025), Security Council Seeks to Bolster UN Toolkit on Peaceful Conflict Resolution Meetings Coverage Security Council 9962nd Meeting (AM) SC/16125 22 July 2025 'Peace Is Choice,' Says Top UN Official as Delegates Debate Peace Mechanisms under Chapter VI of UN Charter "Peace is a choice, and the world expects the Security Council to help countries make that choice", said the United Nations chief during an open debate on promoting international peace and security through multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes. At the outset of the meeting, the 15-member organ unanimously adopted draft resolution 2788 (2025) (to be issued as document S/RES/2788(2025)) aimed at strengthening mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes By its terms, the Council urged all Member States to utilize effectively the mechanisms for pacific settlement of disputes, as outlined in Article 33 of the UN Charter, including negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice. It also expressed its readiness to utilize the investigative mechanism provided in Article 34 of the UN Charter. Furthermore, it called on Member States to support the Secretary-General's mediation and preventive diplomacy efforts, which should involve well-trained, impartial and geographically and linguistically diverse mediation experts, and to enhance cooperation with regional and subregional organizations. It also emphasized the importance of inclusive participation of women and youth in conflict prevention and dispute resolution efforts. As well, the resolution requested that the Secretary-General submit recommendations for further strengthening the mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes one year after its adoption, and that the Council convene an open debate to review them. "The architects of the United Nations Charter recognized that the peaceful resolution of disputes is the lifeline when geopolitical tensions escalate, unresolved disputes fuel the flames of conflict, and States lose trust in each other," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The UN Charter outlines several key tools including Chapter VI for fostering peace, he said, also referencing Action 16 of the Pact of the Future, which calls on Member States to recommit to all mechanisms of preventive diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes. "This is needed now more than ever," he stressed. From Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar, and many other parts of the world, conflict is raging, international law is being trampled, and hunger and displacement are at record levels, he continued. Pushing security further out of reach, terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime remain persistent scourges. While divisions and escalatory discourse obstruct the Council's ability to act effectively, there have been some inspiring examples of forging solutions to global problems, he said, spotlighting the Black Sea Initiative and the Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian Federation. From the Sevilla Conference on Financing for Development, to the Oceans Conference in Nice, to the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction and the Cybercrime Treaty, multilateral progress is being made. Likewise, the Pact for the Future, adopted in 2024, demonstrates a clear recommitment to strengthening the UN's collective security system, with a particular emphasis on prioritizing preventive diplomacy and mediation. Underscoring the need to ensure that "this Council reflects the world of today, not the world of 80 years ago", he said it should be more representative of today's geopolitical realities. Also, Member States must honour their obligations under international law, he asserted, noting the critical contribution of the International Court of Justice. Diplomacy while not always successful in preventing conflicts, violence and instability holds the power to stop them, he emphasized. While competition between States is "a geopolitical reality", cooperation anchored in shared interests and the greater good is "the sustainable pathway to peace", he underscored. [...] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary-General's remarks to the Security Council - on Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes United Nations Secretary-General 22 July 2025 Mr. President, Excellencies, I want to thank Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Pakistan for convening today's open debate. The topic of today's debate shines a light on the clear connection between international peace and multilateralism. Eighty years ago, the United Nations was founded with a primary purpose to safeguard humanity from the scourge of war. The architects of the United Nations Charter recognized that the peaceful resolution of disputes is the lifeline when geopolitical tensions escalate... when unresolved disputes fuel the flames of conflict...and when states lose trust in each other. The Charter lays out a number of important tools to forge peace. Article 2.3 of the UN Charter is clear: "All Members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endangered." Chapter VI of the Charter is equally clear on the specific responsibilities of this Council to help ensure the pacific settlement of disputes "by negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice." Action 16 of the Pact of the Future calls on Member States to recommit to all the mechanisms of preventive diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes. I commend Pakistan for utilizing its presidency to put forward a resolution urging all Member States to make full use of these tools in our collective pursuit of global peace. This is needed now more than ever. Around the world, we see an utter disregard for if not outright violations of international law including international human rights law, international refugee law, international humanitarian law, and the UN Charter itself, without any accountability. These failures to uphold international obligations are coming at a time of widening geopolitical divides and conflicts. And the cost is staggering measured in human lives, shattered communities, and lost futures. We need look no further than the horror show in Gaza -- with a level of death and destruction without parallel in recent times. Malnourishment is soaring. Starvation is knocking on every door. And now we are seeing the last gasp of a humanitarian system built on humanitarian principles. That system is being denied the conditions to function. Denied the space to deliver. Denied the safety to save lives. With Israeli military operations intensifying and new displacement orders issued in Deir al-Balah, devastation is being layered upon devastation. I am appalled that UN premises have been struck - among them facilities of the UN Office for Project Services and the World Health Organization, including WHO's main warehouse. This is despite all parties having been informed of the locations of these UN facilities. These premises are inviolable and must be protected under international humanitarian law - without exception. From Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar, and many other parts of the world, conflict is raging, international law is being trampled, and hunger and displacement are at record levels. And terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime remain persistent scourges pushing security further out of reach. Diplomacy may not have always succeeded in preventing conflicts, violence and instability. But it still holds the power to stop them. Mr. President, Peace is a choice. And the world expects the UN Security Council to help countries make this choice. This Council is at the centre of the global architecture for peace and security. Its creation reflected a central truth. Competition between states is a geopolitical reality. But cooperation anchored in shared interests and the greater good is the sustainable pathway to peace. Too often, we see divisions, entrenched positions and escalatory discourse blocking solutions and the effectiveness of the Council. But we have also seen some inspiring examples of finding common ground and forging solutions to global problems. For example, today marks three years since the signing of the Black Sea Initiative and the Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian Federation efforts that show what we can achieve through mediation and the good offices of the United Nations, even during the most challenging moments. And we've seen many other recent examples. From the Sevilla Conference on Financing for Development, to the Oceans Conference in Nice, to the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction and the Cybercrime Treaty, to the Pact for the Future adopted last year. The Pact, in particular, demonstrates a clear re-commitment by the world to strengthen the United Nations collective security system. Drawing from the New Agenda for Peace, it prioritizes preventive diplomacy and mediation all areas where this Council can play a vital role. As we look to the theme of today's debate, I see three areas where we can live up to the Pact's call to renew our commitment to and the world's faith in the multilateral problem-solving architecture. First this Council's members, in particular its permanent members, must continue working to overcome divisions. The majority of situations on the Security Council's agenda are complex and resist quick fixes. But even in the darkest days of the Cold War, the collective dialogue and decision-making in this Council underpinned a common and effective system of global security. One that successfully deployed a range of peacekeeping missions. One that opened the door for vital humanitarian aid to flow to people in need. And one that helped prevent a Third World War. I urge you to summon this same spirit by keeping channels open, continuing to listen in good faith, and working to overcome differences and building consensus. We must also work to ensure that this Council reflects the world of today, not the world of 80 years ago. This Council should be made more representative of today's geopolitical realities. And we must continue improving the working methods of this Council to make it more inclusive, transparent, efficient and accountable. I urge you to continue building consensus to move the intergovernmental negotiations forward. Second this Council must continue strengthening cooperation with regional and subregional partners. The landmark adoption of Security Council Resolution 2719 supporting African Union-led peace support operations through assessed contributions is a good example of how we can join efforts with regional organizations to support more effective responses. I also commend this Council's steps to strengthen and re-build regional security frameworks to encourage dialogue and advance the peaceful settlement of disputes. Troisiemement, les Etats Membres doivent honorer leurs obligations en vertu du droit international, y compris la Charte des Nations Unies, le droit international des droits humains et le droit international humanitaire. Le Pacte pour l'avenir appelle tous les Etats Membres a respecter leurs engagements envers la Charte, ainsi que les principes de respect de la souverainete, de l'integrite territoriale et de l'independance politique des Etats. Tous ces principes sont ancres dans le droit international et reposent sur l'engagement de donner la priorite a la prevention des conflits et au reglement pacifique des differends par le dialogue et la diplomatie. Le Pacte reconnait egalement la contribution essentielle de la Cour internationale de Justice, qui fetera son 80eme anniversaire l'annee prochaine. Monsieur le President, A l'occasion du 80eme anniversaire de notre Organisation et de la Charte qui lui a donne vie et forme, nous devons renouveler notre engagement envers l'esprit multilateral de la paix par la diplomatie. Je me rejouis de travailler avec vous en ce sens, afin de parvenir a la paix et la securite internationales que les peuples du monde entier esperent et meritent. Je vous remercie. [all-English] Mr. President, Excellencies, I want to thank Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Pakistan for convening today's open debate. The topic of today's debate shines a light on the clear connection between international peace and multilateralism. Eighty years ago, the United Nations was founded with a primary purpose to safeguard humanity from the scourge of war. The architects of the United Nations Charter recognized that the peaceful resolution of disputes is the lifeline when geopolitical tensions escalate... when unresolved disputes fuel the flames of conflict...and when states lose trust in each other. The Charter lays out a number of important tools to forge peace. Article 2.3 of the UN Charter is clear: "All Members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endangered." Chapter VI of the Charter is equally clear on the specific responsibilities of this Council to help ensure the pacific settlement of disputes "by negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice." Action 16 of the Pact of the Future calls on Member States to recommit to all the mechanisms of preventive diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes. I commend Pakistan for utilizing its presidency to put forward a resolution urging all Member States to make full use of these tools in our collective pursuit of global peace. This is needed now more than ever. Around the world, we see an utter disregard for if not outright violations of international law including international human rights law, international refugee law, international humanitarian law, and the UN Charter itself, without any accountability. These failures to uphold international obligations are coming at a time of widening geopolitical divides and conflicts. And the cost is staggering measured in human lives, shattered communities, and lost futures. We need look no further than the horror show in Gaza -- with a level of death and destruction without parallel in recent times. Malnourishment is soaring. Starvation is knocking on every door. And now we are seeing the last gasp of a humanitarian system built on humanitarian principles. That system is being denied the conditions to function. Denied the space to deliver. Denied the safety to save lives. With Israeli military operations intensifying and new displacement orders issued in Deir al-Balah, devastation is being layered upon devastation. I am appalled that UN premises have been struck - among them facilities of the UN Office for Project Services and the World Health Organization, including WHO's main warehouse. This is despite all parties having been informed of the locations of these UN facilities. These premises are inviolable and must be protected under international humanitarian law - without exception. From Gaza to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar, and many other parts of the world, conflict is raging, international law is being trampled, and hunger and displacement are at record levels. And terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime remain persistent scourges pushing security further out of reach. Diplomacy may not have always succeeded in preventing conflicts, violence and instability. But it still holds the power to stop them. Mr. President, Peace is a choice. And the world expects the UN Security Council to help countries make this choice. This Council is at the centre of the global architecture for peace and security. Its creation reflected a central truth. Competition between states is a geopolitical reality. But cooperation anchored in shared interests and the greater good is the sustainable pathway to peace. Too often, we see divisions, entrenched positions and escalatory discourse blocking solutions and the effectiveness of the Council. But we have also seen some inspiring examples of finding common ground and forging solutions to global problems. For example, today marks three years since the signing of the Black Sea Initiative and the Memorandum of Understanding with the Russian Federation efforts that show what we can achieve through mediation and the good offices of the United Nations, even during the most challenging moments. And we've seen many other recent examples. From the Sevilla Conference on Financing for Development, to the Oceans Conference in Nice, to the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction and the Cybercrime Treaty, to the Pact for the Future adopted last year. The Pact, in particular, demonstrates a clear re-commitment by the world to strengthen the United Nations collective security system. Drawing from the New Agenda for Peace, it prioritizes preventive diplomacy and mediation all areas where this Council can play a vital role. As we look to the theme of today's debate, I see three areas where we can live up to the Pact's call to renew our commitment to and the world's faith in the multilateral problem-solving architecture. First this Council's members, in particular its permanent members, must continue working to overcome divisions. The majority of situations on the Security Council's agenda are complex and resist quick fixes. But even in the darkest days of the Cold War, the collective dialogue and decision-making in this Council underpinned a common and effective system of global security. One that successfully deployed a range of peacekeeping missions. One that opened the door for vital humanitarian aid to flow to people in need. And one that helped prevent a Third World War. I urge you to summon this same spirit by keeping channels open, continuing to listen in good faith, and working to overcome differences and building consensus. We must also work to ensure that this Council reflects the world of today, not the world of 80 years ago. This Council should be made more representative of today's geopolitical realities. And we must continue improving the working methods of this Council to make it more inclusive, transparent, efficient and accountable. I urge you to continue building consensus to move the intergovernmental negotiations forward. Second this Council must continue strengthening cooperation with regional and subregional partners. The landmark adoption of Security Council Resolution 2719 supporting African Union-led peace support operations through assessed contributions is a good example of how we can join efforts with regional organizations to support more effective responses. I also commend this Council's steps to strengthen and re-build regional security frameworks to encourage dialogue and advance the peaceful settlement of disputes. And third Member States must honour their obligations under international law, including the UN Charter, international human rights law and international humanitarian law. The Pact for the Future calls on all Member States to live up to their commitments in the UN Charter, and the principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the political independence of states. All grounded in international law, and a commitment to prioritizing prevention of conflict and the peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. The Pact also recognized the critical contribution of the International Court of Justice, which celebrates its 80th anniversary next year. Mr. President, As we mark the 80th anniversary of our organization and the Charter that gave it life and shape, we need to renew our commitment to the multilateral spirit of peace through diplomacy. I look forward to working with you in this important effort, to achieve the international peace and security the people of the world need and deserve. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coast Guard national security cutter returns to California following 121-day Bering Sea patrol United States Coast Guard Press Release | July 22, 2025 ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) returned to their Alameda home port Wednesday following a 20,000-nautical-mile, 121-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea. Munro departed Alameda mid-March and operated throughout the Bering Sea during a months-long Alaska Patrol in support of the Coast Guard's Arctic District. The crew provided U.S. maritime presence in the region while patrolling along the maritime boundary line between the United States and Russia, supporting U.S. strategic interests in the North Pacific Ocean by promoting maritime governance and enforcing domestic fishery regulations. Munro conducted 32 boardings of commercial fishing vessels to ensure compliance with U.S. law, preserve the integrity of U.S. fish stocks, encourage sustainable fishing practices, and maintain a level playing field within the U.S. exclusive economic zone. Exemplifying interagency coordination, Munro hosted a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration law enforcement officer aboard, enhancing enforcement efforts to protect the $6 billion Alaskan fishery. Munro also served as the primary search and rescue (SAR) asset in the Bering Sea. During the patrol, the crew conducted more than 100 flight evolutions with three separate aircraft, qualifying eight pilots and increasing SAR readiness in the region. Most notably, Munro collaborated with Forward Operating Station Cold Bay, Alaska, to respond to a long-range SAR case. During the operation, Munro served as a "lily pad," refueling the Coast Guard helicopter at sea and maximizing its on-scene search time in the vicinity of Nunivak Island, more than 300 nautical miles from Cold Bay, for two people reportedly in the water from an overturned skiff. The Coast Guard's efforts to secure Arctic waterways aim to ensure American security, prosperity and freedom in the face of evolving Arctic security challenges and risks. "Munro is happy to be home after a long and successful patrol," said Munro's commanding officer, Capt. Jim O'Mara. "Our job in the Bering Sea was to keep U.S. mariners safe, protect the economic integrity of the U.S. exclusive economic zone, and uphold the border control and territorial integrity of the U.S. Arctic. I can proudly say that we accomplished that mission on all fronts. We're excited to return home to our friends and families after four months of hard work." Enhancing international collaborations, Munro hosted two Royal Canadian Navy exchange officers aboard for the four-month patrol. While aboard, the officers sharpened their seamanship skills, earning certifications as underway officer of the deck after an intensive qualification process that allowed them to lead the bridge team and navigate the cutter. Commissioned in 2017, Munro is a Legend-class national security cutter named for Signalman First Class Douglas A. Munro, the only Coast Guardsman awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in 1942, sacrificing himself in the defense, rescue and evacuation of a U.S. Marine battalion from Point Cruz at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Coast Guard Base Alameda is the home port for four national security cutters which are 418-feet long, 54-feet wide and have a 4,600-long-ton displacement. They have a top speed of 28 knots, a range of 12,000 nautical miles and can hold a crew of up to 170. Munro routinely conducts operations throughout the Pacific, where the cutter's combination of range, speed and ability to operate in extreme weather conditions provides the mission flexibility necessary to conduct vital strategic missions. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Millions risk losing access to humanitarian food assistance amid funding slowdown in South Sudan World Food Programme 22 July 2025 JUBA, South Sudan -- The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has reached over two million people with life-saving assistance in South Sudan so far this year. However, a severe funding shortfall threatens ongoing support, placing millions at risk of losing aid. Below is an update on food security and WFP operations in South Sudan, including a quote from WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, who recently returned from South Sudan: Food Security Situation Half the population of South Sudan - 7.7 million people - are facing severe hunger. Of these, 83,000 people are facing catastrophic levels of hunger (IPC5) - the highest classification of food insecurity - including: 32,000 people in Upper Nile State where fierce fighting since March has displaced thousands and severely limited humanitarian access. Nasir and Ulang counties in Upper Nile are at risk of deteriorating into famine. 39,000 who have returned to South Sudan fleeing conflict in Sudan. A record 2.3 million children are at-risk of malnutrition - with conflict areas in Upper Nile and flood-affected areas such as Bentiu among the most impacted. Progress has been achieved where conditions allow for humanitarian access: In Uror county, Jonglei state, all pockets of Catastrophic hunger (IPC5) were alleviated this year as WFP was able to consistently deliver assistance. In ten other counties where conflict and insecurity subsided, crop production increased - improving the food security situation. Sustained peace and humanitarian support are vital to cement these gains. Due to raging conflict in neighboring Sudan, nearly 1.2 million people have fled to South Sudan since April 2023, many arriving hungry, malnourished and traumatised. WFP Response WFP has supported two million of the most vulnerable people in South Sudan this year, including over 300,000 impacted by the escalation of conflict in Upper Nile. In July, WFP conducted airdrops to access the most remote parts of the Greater Upper Nile region, including areas at risk of famine. To date, we have delivered 430 metric tons of food, and airdrops are ongoing to reach 40,000 people. Vital river convoys on the White Nile River have resumed after access was granted for the first time in months due to fighting. On 16 July, a river convoy carrying 1,380 mt of life-saving food assistance from WFP and other non-food items transported on behalf of the humanitarian community, departed Bor destined for Upper Nile state. River routes are the most cost-effective way to move food assistance at scale in South Sudan where infrastructure is severely limited. The WFP run United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) continues to serve seven destinations in Upper Nile including Maban, Maiwut, Malakal, Mandeng, Mathiang, Renk, and Ulang - providing life-saving cargo and access to the most remote areas. Upper Nile state has been significantly affected by a cholera outbreak. Since March, the WFP-led Logistics Cluster has airlifted 109 metric tons of cholera-related supplies to locations in Upper Nile and Unity states. Funding outlook and challenges Severe funding shortfalls mean WFP can reach just 2.5 million people with regular assistance - only 30 percent of people facing severe hunger - across the country with emergency food assistance. WFP urgently requires US$274 million to maintain support for just the 2.5 million most acutely food insecure through the end of the year - providing only 50 percent rations to these communities in most cases. Further reductions in rations and assistance will be necessary in September if additional funds are not urgently received. Limiting food aid to the most vulnerable families risks undoing recent fragile gains. Notes to editors: WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, visited South Sudan on 17-20 July, the following quotes may be attributed to him: "The scale of the humanitarian needs in South Sudan is staggering. But the scale of suffering here does not make headlines. Whether it's families trapped every year by flooding in Unity state or others trapped by conflict in Upper Nile state - millions of mothers, fathers, and children spend each day fighting hunger to survive. WFP is here, providing whatever assistance we can, however we can. But rising needs and shrinking resources are forcing us to scale back, even in places where people are on the brink of famine. WFP has the expertise, the teams, and the capacity to deliver, even in the most remote and challenging environments, but without sufficient funding, and a period of peace, our hands are tied. This is a country endowed with natural resources and a vibrant youthful population. It is time to unlock its full potential." # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. withdrawal contradicts fundamental principles of multilateralism: UNESCO head People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:30, July 23, 2025 UNESCO director-general expressed regret over the U.S. decision, rejecting the stated reasons. PARIS, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Audrey Azoulay, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said on Tuesday that U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism. Deeply regretting the decision made by U.S. President Donald Trump, Azoulay warned that the withdrawal might affect foremost UNESCO's partners in the United States, in particularly communities seeking site inscription on the World Heritage List, Creative City status, and University Chairs. On Tuesday, the United States announced a decision to withdraw from UNESCO by the end of December 2026, just two years after rejoining the organization. This marks the third time Washington has exited UNESCO. According to a statement by the U.S. State Department, the withdrawal was prompted by what Washington perceived as UNESCO's tendency to "advance divisive social and cultural causes," particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. Photo taken on July 11, 2025 shows the U.S. Department of State building in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) In response, the UNESCO director-general expressed regret over the U.S. decision, rejecting the stated reasons. She emphasized that UNESCO remains a "rare forum for building consensus through concrete, action-oriented multilateralism." "These claims also contradict the reality of UNESCO's efforts, particularly in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism," she added. Despite the loss of funding from the United States, Azoulay affirmed that the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO in 2026 will not affect the organization's normal operations, as its financial position has been significantly strengthened. "We have implemented major structural reforms and diversified our funding sources. Thanks to the efforts made by the Organization since 2018, the decline in U.S. financial contributions has been effectively offset," she stated. Azoulay also emphasized that UNESCO has intensified its efforts to take meaningful action wherever its mission can contribute to peace, reaffirming the critical importance of its mandate, even in the wake of the last U.S. withdrawal under President Trump in 2017. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Planned Subic ammo plant 'very important' for US, PH -Trump Philippine News Agency By Darryl John Esguerra July 23, 2025, 8:00 am MANILA -- United States President Donald Trump underscored the strategic importance of the proposed ammunition manufacturing facility in Subic Bay in Zambales, saying it would boost both Philippine defense capabilities and US military readiness. "It's very important. Otherwise, we wouldn't have approved it," Trump said early Wednesday (Manila time) during a press conference at the White House after his bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who is in the US for a three-day official visit. "We need ammunition. We're going to end up in a few months, we'll have more ammunition than any country has ever had... missiles, the speedy ones, the slow ones, the accurate ones we have everything." The proposed joint project, which will be built in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, is part of a broader US-Philippines defense cooperation agenda under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), amid rising tensions in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region. The US House Committee on Appropriations ordered its Department of Defense, State Department, and the International Development Finance Corp. to assess the feasibility of establishing such facility in Subic Bay. Self-reliant defense Marcos clarified that the ammunition production initiative is part of the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP), with US support aimed at helping the Philippines build up its own capacity. "This is actually (the US) assisting the Philippines in what we call our self-reliance defense program, which is to allow us to be self-reliant and to be able to stand on our own two feet, whatever the circumstances that occur in the future," Marcos said. On the issue of potentially hosting more US missile systems, Marcos noted that any military modernization effort is a response to the evolving security environment. "We would certainly like any kind of military spending we would wish that it wasn't necessary, but it is," he added. The Subic site, a former US naval base turned commercial hub, has long been considered a strategic location due to its proximity to the West Philippine Sea, a resource-rich area within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone that overlaps with the vast South China Sea, which is being claimed entirely by China. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNRWA Commissioner-General on Gaza: Silencing voices UNRWA 23 Jul 2025 From Philippe Lazzarini, the UNRWA Commissioner-General as posted on his official X account (previously known as Twitter) As if banning international media is not enough. Humanitarian workers are also banned when they report on atrocities committed in Gaza and elsewhere in the occupied Palestinian territory. The denial of a visa to our colleague from OCHA oPt is the latest in a pattern of restrictions. Since the beginning of the war, the Israeli authorities have increasingly denied or failed to renew visas for UN staff, including Humanitarian Coordinators, heads of UN agencies, and staff of International NGOs. In addition, legislative restrictions to intimidate Israeli Human rights organisations were adopted. All UNRWA international staff have not been granted visas for nearly six months now. I, too, have been denied entry to Gaza since March 2024 after the ICJ ruling, and to the West Bank including East Jerusalem since June 2024. Visas must be granted to humanitarian staff to support the work of their Palestinian colleagues. Coupled with the ongoing ban of international media to enter Gaza, these visa denials are deepening the spread of dis-information and increasing de-humanization of the people in Gaza. Background Information: UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The United Nations General Assembly established UNRWA in 1949 with a mandate to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to registered Palestine refugees in the Agency's area of operations pending a just and lasting solution to their plight. UNRWA operates in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, The Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Tens of thousands of Palestine refugees who lost their homes and livelihoods due to the 1948 conflict continue to be displaced and in need of support, nearly 75 years on. UNRWA helps Palestine Refugees achieve their full potential in human development through quality services it provides in education, health care, relief and social services, protection, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address First firing for Australian NASAMS By Captain Lyndon Harvey 22 July 2025 The Australian Army's air and missile defence capability took a step forward during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 when 16th Regiment's National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) fired two AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles in the Northern Territory. The surface-to-air missile system was deployed to the remote Bradshaw Field Training Area, some 600 kilometres south of Darwin, where 16th Regiment soldiers successfully shot down a simulated cruise missile threat several kilometres away and thousands of feet in the sky. 111 Battery Air and Missile Defence Operator Gunner Seth Allen said the thrill of a live-fire wasn't lost on the regiment's soldiers. "Honestly, it's an honour being that close," Gunner Allen said. NASAMS forms part of the inner tier of Defence's integrated air and missile defence: a network of ships, fighter aircraft and surface-to-air missiles designed to protect Australia from airborne threats such as enemy missiles or aircraft. Major Talal Moutrage, in his role as an Air Defence Artillery Fire Control Officer, is a subject matter expert within the Air Command and Control Agency, integrating defensive fires into the joint air battle. "We provide the critical integration with joint partners to ensure the protection of friendly aircraft and control the effective delivery of land defensive fires against airborne threats," Major Moutrage said. It was the third successful live fire for the air defence regiment, after the AIM-9 Sidewinder was tested from the high-mobility launcher at Woomera Test Range earlier this year. Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, held across Australia from July 13 to August 4, is the largest Australia-US bilaterally planned, multilaterally conducted exercise. More than 40,000 military personnel are taking part in activities across Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales and Papua New Guinea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippine focus on territorial defence operations By Warrant Officer Class 2 Max Bree 22 July 2025 When a contingent of Australian reconnaissance soldiers was preparing to patrol with their Philippine counterparts, they were shocked to see how little the Filipinos carried. While each Aussie typically had a heavy pack laden with equipment, rations and water, only one man in each Philippine section carried a pack. Mostly containing rice and water. They headed out with no rations so the Philippine soldiers could show Australians how to get water from cane sugar and coconuts, along with what fruit and animals they could eat. They were then shown how to cook it in a bamboo trunk. "That was pretty cool considering we're so heavily reliant on rat packs and they will go on patrol and take basically nothing and survive out there," recon section commander Corporal Callum Scott-Mills said. Recon soldiers from 5th/7th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, were training with recon troops from the Philippine's 4th and 10th Infantry Divisions, at Camp Kibaritan in Mindanao, during May and June. The groups also shared how they each conduct operations - the Australians work from observation posts, while the Filipinos conduct recon in force for counterinsurgency. "A platoon goes out and services one single objective, whereas in Australia it's a lot more five-to-six-man patrols," Corporal Scott-Mills said. "We don't normally go out seeking the enemy. We're there to collect information." The Australians emphasised that recon objectives could be met while remaining under a certain detection threshold, and this could support territorial defence operations. Corporal Scott-Mills was heartened the Filipinos were happy to consider new ideas, given many had recent fighting experience. "They took on board the different approach to recon, because it would be easy to fob off some dudes like us who haven't had combat deployments," Corporal Scott-Mills said. The Australians covered things such as mitigating against enemy drones, thermal and infra-red detection equipment - things not often considered in counterinsurgency, but are important in a conventional conflict. When the training started, Corporal Scott-Mills was unsure how the language barrier would affect training, but said the groups got closer as time went on. "It's good when they're receptive to your training and we get really good training back," he said. "We've got our own visual tracker and combat survival courses but being taught by people who've done it [in] real-time was awesome. "They were insanely good at operating in the jungle, we weren't amateur, but they were a lot better than us." Corporal Scott-Mills finished his time in the Philippines wanting to incorporate some of their ideas for less equipment into Australian patrols. "Philippine patrolling is super fast and they can sustain themselves for a long time," he said. "And it's got me thinking, are we carrying too much over what we actually need?" The activity was part of the Joint Australian Training Team - Philippines (JATT-P) program. In 2025, JATT-P will feature more than 20 training activities and exchanges between the ADF and Philippine armed forces, more than double the activities in 2024. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu Has a Phone Call with Director General of Political and Security Affairs of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Frederic Mondoloni Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: July 21, 2025 19:40 On July 21, 2025, Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu had a phone call with Director General of Political and Security Affairs of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Frederic Mondoloni at the latter's request, and they had an exchange of views with a focus on the Iranian nuclear issue. Ma Zhaoxu emphasized that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved through political and diplomatic means, and that all parties should resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible to prevent the situation from escalating. Iran's right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy should be guaranteed. China is ready to continue to play a positive and constructive role in this regard. China and France agreed to maintain close communication on the diplomatic resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address HK police to follow up with investigations into 'soft resistance' case in local book fair Global Times By Chen Qingqing Published: Jul 22, 2025 11:10 PM Some anti-China activists advocating for "Hong Kong independence" took advantage of the Hong Kong Book Fair to openly provoke and organize a so-called "reading everywhere - Hong Kong independent book fair and bookstore festival," where they promoted "an atmosphere of soft resistance," local media outlet Hong Kong Wen Wei Po reported on Tuesday. In response, the Hong Kong Police Force told the Global Times on Tuesday that it will follow up with investigations and actions based on evidence, actual circumstances and case requirements, and handle the matter in accordance with the law. According to the Wen Wei Po's investigation, some areas in Sham Shui Po, where the "independent book fair" was held, appeared to be a stronghold of remnants from the black-clad violence movement in 2019. The participating bookstores, along with more than 20 nearby eateries and retail stores, were turned into a "soft resistance" industrial cluster. The "book fair" was used to drive business for these other shops. During the visit, reporters discovered that many stores were filled with various propaganda products, using subtle language or innuendo to promote "soft resistance." For example, they slightly altered the slogans from the "black-clad violence" movement, printing them on postcards and stickers, and re-selling pens that previously carried such slogans but had been modified. Restaurants and retail stores also displayed promotional posters for the "independent book fair," and the cultural products on sale carried clear incitement undertones. "The circle of soft or implied resistance is an evil phenomenon. Hidden and hatred messages threaten the community," Chu Kar-kin, a veteran commentator based in the HKSAR and member of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday. "These rule-breakers intend to classify the consumers by labeling, which is obstructive and harmful to the social harmony and unity. They should stop such selfish acts. They should not incite others," Chu said. National security risks often manifest in the form of "soft resistance," using seemingly unrelated topics as entry points to spread division and manipulate public sentiment through public opinion, online platforms or cultural infiltration, Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keun was quoted as saying in a report by the local media RTHK on Tuesday. Tang noted that the Security Bureau will adopt a multi-pronged approach to address national security risks, including soft resistance. It will also expedite the issuance of guidelines outlining how government personnel should fulfill their responsibilities in safeguarding national security while performing their duties. Additionally, the bureau will assist the public in recognizing the true nature of national security threats and the tactics of soft resistance, the official said. According to Article 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, any person who commits an act with "seditious intent" including promoting "Hong Kong independence" or making veiled threats to national security may be committing a criminal offense, Willy Fu, a law professor who is also the director of the Chinese Association of Hong Kong & Macao Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday. "If a bookstore possesses or sells such materials, law enforcement authorities have the right to investigate in accordance with the law and may pursue prosecution based on the circumstances," the legal expert said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM responds to question about 'US govt employee prevented from leaving China' Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 22, 2025 04:39 PM When asked whether more information could be provided regarding the US State Department's statement that a US government employee has been prevented from leaving China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a press conference on Tuesday, "I have no specific information to provide." Guo stressed that China upholds the rule of law and handles exit and entry affairs in accordance with the law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese FM responds to Bessent's claims that trade talks with China could include its Russia, Iran oil purchases Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 22, 2025 03:37 PM In response to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's claim that the next round of US-China talks could include Chinese purchases of Russian and Iranian oil, spokesperson from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Guo Jiakun, said on Tuesday that on the issue of tariffs, China's position has been consistent and clear. "We hope the US will work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their phone call, make full use of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism, enhance mutual understanding through dialogue and communication, reduce misunderstandings, strengthen cooperation, and promote the stable, sound, and sustainable development of China-US relations," he added. For specific details, please refer to the competent authorities, Guo noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China releases OW5 laser anti-drone system target shooting footage Global Times By Fan Wei Published: Jul 22, 2025 10:44 PM China's state-owned arms firm Norinco Group on Monday held an offensive and defensive drill, featuring its trade-oriented ground-based unmanned and anti-unmanned combat systems at a test site in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. During the event, China's OW5 laser weapon system demonstrated its capability to intercept incoming aerial targets using directed energy as a counter-unmanned strategy. The OW5 laser weapon system is a high-mobility vehicle-mounted low-altitude anti-drone system, designed to protect key locations and convoys from drone threats. It integrates radar and optoelectronics for rapid and precise target detection, aiming and tracking, with no need for ammunition supply, fast strike speed and high accuracy, operating independently or in cooperation with other systems. "The OW5 laser emitter can track moving targets, whether they are low, small, slow-level drones. It can burn out drone circuits within several kilometers in seconds. The laser incurs minimal costs and does not require ammunition," said Ben Chi, an expert from Norinco. Ben said the OW5 also has a strong capability for rapid target switching. When faced with multiple drones, it can quickly switch targets after taking down one in a matter of seconds. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on July 22, 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: July 22, 2025 17:11 CCTV: A recent report said that the project value under the BRI in the first six months of this year is greater than the total for the whole of 2024, hitting a record high. Some media and scholars say that China's increased engagement with countries under the BRI contrasts starkly with the approach of the U.S., which is imposing bruising tariffs on trading partners around the world. And BRI countries saw "an opportunity to deepen ties with China." What's your comment? Guo Jiakun: Belt and Road cooperation has now entered a new stage of high-quality development. From Eurasia to Africa and Latin America, and from physical connectivity to institutional connectivity and people-to-people connectivity, the fruits of cooperation have benefited the people from over 150 countries. The Jakarta-Bandung high speed railway has served more than 10 million passengers. China-Europe Railway Express has provided over 110 thousand freight train services, and the first ever two-way voyage between Chancay and Shanghai through the new land-sea corridor between China and Latin America has been completed. The installed capacity of photovoltaic power plants jointly built by China and Africa totaled over 1.5 gigawatts. "Small and beautiful" projects like the Luban Workshops and the juncao technology have led households to a road to prosperity. After the development of more than a decade, and built on the advancements in connectivity, Belt and Road cooperation expands to a platform for trade and industrial cooperation, assisting more countries to integrate into the international industrial chain and safeguarding the stability and resilience of global supply chain. In Belt and Road cooperation, China follows the principles of "planning together, building together, and benefiting together," the philosophy of open, green and clean cooperation, and the goal of pursuing high-standard, people-centered and sustainable cooperation, and is committed to promoting the modernization of all the countries. China is ready to work with all parties to strive for solid progress in pursuing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation for common development and a win-win future. Bloomberg: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the next round of U.S.-China talks could include a discussion of China's purchases of Russian and Iranian oil. We're wondering whether the Foreign Ministry has any comment. Guo Jiakun: On tariffs, China's position is consistent and clear. We hope the U.S. will work with China to implement the important common understandings reached by the two presidents during the phone call, give play to the role of the economic and trade consultation mechanism, build up consensus, reduce misunderstanding, and step up cooperation through communication and dialogue, and promote the steady, sound, and sustainable development of bilateral relations. For anything specific, I'd refer you to competent authorities. EFE: The China-EU Summit is taking place in Beijing this week. How does the Chinese government assess the current state of China-EU relations? Does China consider that this week's summit with the European Union reflects a strengthening of bilateral ties amid increasing global trade tensions? Guo Jiakun: This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the EU, and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. Over the past 50 years, China-EU relationship has become one of the most influential bilateral relationships in the world. The fruitful China-EU cooperation has boosted each other's development and progress, bringing tangible benefit to nearly 2 billion Chinese and EU people, making important contribution to world peace and development, and setting a fine example of mutually beneficial cooperation in the era of economic globalization. The China-EU relationship is now at a critical juncture of building on past achievements and opening up a new chapter. The relationship faces both new opportunities and new challenges. In an increasingly turbulent international landscape with rising unilateralism and protectionism, the upcoming China-EU Summitan occasion to enhance strategic communication and deepen dialogue and cooperationis good not only to our two sides but also to the world as a whole. China stands ready to work with the EU, through a successful summit, to send out a positive message of China and the EU being committed to strengthening partnership and upholding multilateralism and open cooperation. AFP: The U.S. State Department confirmed that an employee of the U.S. government was made subject to an exit ban in China. Can you give us more information on that? Guo Jiakun: I have no details to share. China upholds the rule of law and handles entry and exit affairs in accordance with the law. AFP: Yesterday, a Chinese-born American researcher admitted the theft of trade secrets from the U.S., including technologies designed to detect nuclear missile launches. What is the Foreign Ministry's comment? Guo Jiakun: I'm not familiar with what you mentioned. AFP: Yesterday the U.S. defense secretary reaffirmed the U.S.'s defense commitment to the Philippines, saying that it extends to armed attacks on the Philippines' Coast Guard vessels in the South China Sea. What is China's comment? Guo Jiakun: Whatever cooperation the U.S. and the Philippines have, it should not target or harm any third party, still less incite confrontation and heighten tensions in the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US military officials' hype over China's influence in Africa is 'repeated groundless rhetoric aimed at advancing US geopolitical and commercial interests' Global Times By Chen Qingqing Published: Jul 23, 2025 12:56 PM Some members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee have once again hyped up China's influence in Africa, according to US media reports. In the view of several Chinese military and geopolitical experts, such repeated and outdated rhetoric is groundless, as China has never sought to establish a military presence in Africa. The real reason behind the US military's narrative of "China expanding its military presence in Africa" is to fabricate the so-called "China military threat theory" as a pretext for its own military involvement in the continent, experts said. Committee chairman Roger Wicker said during a Tuesday hearing that Africa was increasingly at the center of a great-power rivalry and is seeing more activity from China, "which is expanding its military footprint on the continent," and seeks to destabilize the continent through so-called disinformation campaigns, according to US military news site Stars and Stripes. China has never sought to establish a military presence in Africa. Our activities on the continent have always been carried out at the invitation of local countries, aimed at assisting them in counterterrorism efforts and strengthening their national defense capabilities, Song Zhongping, a Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times on Wednesday. "For example, the support base China established in Djibouti is primarily intended to safeguard the security of sea lanes in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters, and to support regional peace and stability," Song said, noting that the base also plays a role in ensuring the effective participation by Chinese personnel in UN peacekeeping missions in Africa. All of China's military-related activities in Africa are undertaken to fulfill international responsibilities and help maintain regional security. China has never sought to establish military bases or expand military influenceour approach is fundamentally different from that of countries like the US, which maintains overseas bases dominated by military objectives, Song noted. Senior member of the committee, Jack Reed, said in his statement that America's adversaries are forging trade relationships in Africa while simultaneously eroding US influence on the continent, according to the Voice of America. In recent years, China has proposed the Global Security Initiative and strengthened its cooperation with Africa in investment, financing, and infrastructure development, gradually extending that collaboration into the security domain, Song Wei, a professor at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times on Wednesday. "For China, participating in African security affairs is not only an important expression of its responsibilities as a major power, but also a means to help address regional instability and the threat of terrorism. It is worth emphasizing that China has always advanced its peacekeeping efforts under the framework of the UN and has never engaged in so-called 'military infiltration' like the US," Song Wei said. China will firmly support Africans in seeking African solutions to African problems. The African people are the true masters of the African continent, and have the wisdom, ability and right to solve their own problems, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in a joint press conference with his Nigerian counterpart Yusuf Tuggar in January. China will firmly support Africa in strengthening its peace and security capacity, establish and implement a Global Security Initiative partnership with African countries create demonstration zones for the initiative, and advance security-building partnership actions, said Wang. The US military's hype over the so-called "growing Chinese military presence in Africa" is, in fact, an attempt to manufacture the "China military threat" narrative, providing a pretext for its own military involvement in Africa, Song noted. "It also seeks to push African nations to rely on the US and purchase American-made weapons to serve its own geopolitical and commercial interests. The essence of such manipulation is to advance US geopolitical strategynot to genuinely support Africa's peace and development," the Chinese expert said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Transcript of Special Briefing by MEA on Prime Minister's visit to the UK & Maldives (July 22, 2025) India - Ministry of External Affairs July 22, 2025 Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I welcome you to this special press briefing by Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri on Prime Minister's upcoming visit to the UK and Maldives. We are also joined by Shri Puneet Agrawal, Additional Secretary IOR Region in the Ministry of External Affairs, as also Shri Piyush Srivastava, Additional Secretary Europe West Division in the Ministry of External Affairs. With that, I invite Foreign Secretary Sir to make his opening remarks on the visit. Sir. Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary: Thank you. Good afternoon to all of you. You would have already seen the press release that was issued a couple of days ago with regard to Prime Minister's upcoming visits to the United Kingdom and the Maldives. So let me just supplement those with a little bit more information. The Prime Minister will be embarking on an official visit to the United Kingdom tomorrow, the 23rd of July, for discussions during the visit with the Rt. Hon. Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. And during the visit, he will also call on His Majesty King Charles III. There is also, during the visit, interaction that is planned with business leaders, both from India and the United Kingdom. This will be Prime Minister's fourth visit to the United Kingdom since assuming office. He has visited previously in 2015 and 2018, and he was there in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have already met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and more recently, just last month, in June, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. And of course, they've been in touch on the phone a number of times. This visit, though a short one, will give both leaders the opportunity to review the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship and discuss ways to strengthen it further, and also discuss issues that are of regional and global relevance. The India-UK partnership, as you're aware, was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, and since then has seen regular high-level political exchanges, and both sides remain committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels. Apart from the summit-level engagements, there are regular engagements at the level of External Affairs Minister and his counterpart, the British Foreign Secretary, and there are several other institutional mechanisms at ministerial level, dealing with strategic issues, financial, economic, energy-related issues, as well as science and technology. In the contemporary times, the sectors of business, technology, research, education, innovation, the knowledge economy have emerged as key pillars of our bilateral cooperation. The Technology Security Initiative, for instance, which is coming up to its one-year anniversary, was signed last year and is a major indicator of where we are taking our ties in critical and emerging technologies sphere. The University of Southampton, some of you would be aware, recently opened a campus in Gurugram, just last week actually, and this is the first foreign university to open a campus in India under the New Education Policy. Just for your information, there are several other UK universities, apart from universities in other countries ... several other UK universities that are also considering opening campuses in India under the same policy. Some other facts and figures about this very important relationship are bilateral trade crossed $55 billion in 2023-24. The UK is also the sixth largest investor in India, with a cumulative investment of $36 billion. Interestingly, India itself is a large source of Foreign Direct Investment in the UK, with a cumulative investment of close to $20 billion. There are close to a thousand Indian companies in the UK that provide employment to nearly 100,000 people and have a cumulative revenue of over $91 billion. The other important aspect I wanted to point to was the UK-India infrastructure financing bridge, which is coordinated between NITI Aayog on our side and the City of London on the UK side, and this mechanism works to avail UK expertise in mobilizing finance for green infrastructure projects and in the renewable energy sector in India. In the defense sector, we are seeing regular interactions and exercises amongst all three branches of the armed forces. We have placed military instructors at each other's military academies, and one of the more significant partnership projects that we have embarked on in recent times is the agreement to look at electric propulsion capability between the two countries. In the health sector, all of you would be aware of the flagship cooperation between our two countries, whereby the Serum Institute of India partnered with Oxford University to develop the Covishield vaccine. More recently, the same two partners have come together to co-develop a malaria vaccine, which was approved by the WHO in 2023. The UK, as I said, continues to be a very large research and innovation partner for India. I mentioned the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) a short while ago, and some of the key areas in which the TSI works are telecom, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, advanced materials, and quantum computing. One of the most important, probably the foundational aspects of this relationship is the living bridge that connects India and the UK, people of Indian origin in the UK, nearly 1.8 million strong Indian diaspora, which has contributed to strengthening bonds of friendship between our two countries, but has also made extremely valuable contributions to UK economy and society. Let me turn to Prime Minister's visit to Maldives, which will take place on the 25th and 26th of July 2025. This is a state visit that he will be embarking on at the invitation of His Excellency President Muizzu of the Maldives. You would recall that President Muizzu was on a state visit to India in October 2024. Before that, he had come to India for the swearing-in ceremony of the new government that had been elected. And Prime Minister and Dr. Muizzu had met earlier as well in Dubai for the COP meeting. The Prime Minister on this occasion will be the guest of honor at celebrations to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the independence of the Maldives, which is on the 26th of July 2025. As a coincidence, 2025 also happens to be the year when our two countries, India and the Maldives, are observing and marking 60 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The Prime Minister's state visit also happens to be the first state visit of a head of government that President Muizzu is hosting in his presidency since he assumed the office in November 2023. Prime Minister, as you are aware, has been to Maldives earlier in 2018 and 2019, and this would be his third visit to the Maldives. Maldives is, as you all know, a very close partner in our neighborhood, a very important partner in India's Neighborhood First policy, and as part of the MAHASAGAR vision of India, which is Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. We have always been the first on hand to respond to the needs of Maldives in times whenever it has faced crises, natural or manmade. There has been a robust political relationship which as discussed, bolstered by regular visits at high levels. I referred to President Muizzu's visit here in October 2024, when the two leaders adopted a joint vision for an India-Maldives comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. This joint vision, in a sense, has become the guiding framework for our ties, and this year, already in the first six months, we have seen nearly half a dozen ministerial-level visits from the Maldives. The Speaker of the Maldives Parliament has visited India. In fact, the very first engagement this year that the External Affairs Minister held was with the Foreign Minister of the Maldives. On the economic front, India is one of the largest trading partners of the Maldives. Bilateral trade is nearly $500 million, and India continues to be ... Indian investors remain part of sectors such as tourism in the Maldives and other economic activities. On the economic front, one recent development which I would like to share with you is that both countries are in discussions to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement and an Investment Treaty as well. And new areas of cooperation, including renewable energy, fisheries, et cetera, are also being worked on. One of the largest areas of bilateral cooperation is the development partnership between the two countries. India has been a traditional development partner of the Maldives, executing various initiatives through a mix of lines of credit at concessional rates, grants, buyer's credit facilities, as also conducting capacity-building programs in a number of areas. The flagship project that is underway currently is the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which has the potential to be an infrastructure game changer in the Greater Male region, connecting four islands of the Maldives. There are also projects underway in the area of roads, airports, fisheries processing units, and others. We are also alleviating the pressure by helping with social housing as per the needs and priorities of Maldives. And you would be aware also that we've extended a considerable amount of emergency financial assistance to the Government of Maldives, including through instruments such as the twin currency swap arrangements that were done when President Muizzu was also here for 400 million US dollars, as well as 30 billion Indian rupees. In addition, the State Bank of India has continued to re-subscribe to Maldives treasury bills. Maldives is also one of the largest beneficiaries of our capacity-building programs, and through scholarships and trainings that we take this forward. We also have, between the two countries, robust defense and security cooperation. India continues to assist Maldives in building its capacity, train Maldives' defense personnel, and a lot of this is done through regular training programs, naval exercises between the two countries. We've been helping Maldives enhance its capacity for EEZ surveillance and maritime domain awareness through the provision of ships and assets. And the two countries are also cooperating under the ambit of the Colombo Security Conclave. The program of the Prime Minister in the Maldives will include, of course, holding the bilateral official meetings with the Maldives President. There are some infrastructure projects that will be inaugurated. The details of that are still being finalized, and we will also make some announcements in terms of some new initiatives. The relationship with the Maldives is comprehensive and multifaceted. It's been paid attention to by leadership at the highest levels, and we believe that this visit by the Prime Minister will contribute further to consolidating these strong ties and contribute to peace, prosperity, and security in the Indian Ocean region that both of us inhabit. So let me stop there. If you have any questions, I'll try and respond to them. Sumita: Sir, could you please comment on the reports that suggest that there could be a signing of the FTA document by the Prime Minister, and if a date could also be confirmed? And the likely outcomes that you're expecting, particularly with respect to the Prime Minister's visit to the United Kingdom? Thank you. Rishabh, Times Now: Good afternoon, Sir. This is Rishabh from Times Now. I have two questions, one on UK and one on Maldives. First, sir, will there be discussions around the fugitives who are right now in the United Kingdom? I'm talking about like Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi, as well as Vijay Mallya. And in Maldives, will there be discussion around hydrographic survey and also the defense partnership when we are talking? Will there be return of Indian troops for the maintenance of the platforms that India has given to Maldives? Sidhant Sibal, WION: Hi, Sir. Sidhant from WION. Sir, on UK, how much there will be discussion on the Khalistani issue, which has been a concern for India in the past? The Khalistani extremists have been indulging in vandalization of the Indian mission and all those developments. On Maldives, my question is a very generic question because one year ago, the relationship was looking very bad. What basically transpired in terms of this major turnaround in the relationship that today we are seeing the relationship going in a very positive direction? Krishnamohan Sharma, Bharat Express: Sir, Krishnamohan Sharma, Bharat Express se. UK aur India ke beech mei extradition treaty hain, but bahot saare challenges is baat ko le kar face kiye jate hain ki hamare yahan jo prisoners' ki conditions hain woh thick nahi hain, aur is bahane se bahot saare fugitives wahan se yahan pe bheje nahi jate hain, is pe koi charcha hogi kya? [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, Krishnamohan Sharma from Bharat Express. There is an extradition treaty between the UK and India, but many challenges are faced stating that the conditions of our prisons here are not considered adequate. And using this as a reason, many fugitives are not sent back from there to here. Will there be any discussion on this? Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary: Thank you. I think your question with regard to the FTA with the UK, you are aware that there was a conversation on the 6th of May between the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of the UK where an announcement had been made that the two sides had concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement and other issues. Since then, the two sides have been in very close touch with each other. There is the obvious legal scrubbing, et cetera, that any such agreement needs to go through. We are continuing to work on those and last-minute work on that is continuing. And let me just say at this stage that we will update you on the final details related to this at the appropriate time. There are a few questions related to fugitives from Indian law and Indian justice in the UK. These have been a matter of discussion between both sides, and we have continued to make the case for these fugitives to be rendered to India. Obviously, there is a legal process that such requests and such issues go through in the other country, and we continue to follow up very closely with our partners in the UK on these matters. The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists and bodies close to these people is again something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. We will continue to do so. This is a matter of concern not only to us, but it should be a matter of concern to our partners as well, because this impacts social cohesion and social order in these other countries as well. Aap ka jo saval tha prison conditions ko leke, iske bare mein bat chit hoti rahi hai aur dono desh ke jo andruni mamlo ke vibhag hain jo Mantralay hain humari taraf se Gruh Mantralay hai, unki taraf se jo Mantralay hai, unke beech mein in chezo ke upar bat chit chal rahi hai, aur aage bhi chalti rahegi. Aur humari koshish ye rahegi ki unko dikhlane ke liye ki ye sab chezen jo hum unse humari jo mange hain unko pura kiya ja sakta hai aur unke jo kuch vichar hain inko unko hum dekh sakte hain, aisi bat nahi hai ki Bharat mein log nahi laye gaye hain aap jante hain recently Tahawwur Rana ko extradite kiya gaya tha usme bhi aisi chezen thi. Ye kam hum kar sakte hain, ye koi badi bat nahi hai. [Approximate Translation: Answer in Hindi] Your question was regarding prison conditions. This matter has been under discussion, and the internal affairs departments of both countries on our side, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and on their side, their respective department have been in talks on these issues, and such discussions will continue going forward. Our effort will be to demonstrate that the concerns they've raised can be addressed, and that the requests we've made to them can be fulfilled. It's not the case that people haven't been extradited to India as you know, recently Tahawwur Rana was extradited, and similar issues were involved in that case too. This is something we are capable of doing. Finally, I think Sidhant had a question on the turnaround in the Maldives. It's a question of working hard at a relationship. There will always be events that will impact or try to intrude on the relationship. But I think this is testimony to the kind of attention that has been paid to the relationship and including attention at the highest levels that has been paid to the relationship. We've continued to work at it, and I think the result is there for you to see. I think we have also been in very close discussions with our partners in the Maldives to provide clarity and assurances about what it is that we want to do bilaterally, and I think the result is there for all to see. With regard to the assets that we have provided them, they continue to function there with the appropriate personnel to manage them and to assist the Maldives authorities in using them for the best possible results. Keshav Padmanabhan, ThePrint: Foreign Secretary, thank you. This is Keshav Padmanabhan from ThePrint. I have two questions, if you permit me. One on the UK, one on Maldives. On UK, sir, there have been a lot of conversations within NATO countries, of which UK is a founding member, on secondary sanctions on India due to the war between Russia and Ukraine, the EU has come up with the latest sanction package. So how do you see this discussion on the Russia-Ukraine war being raised during the meeting between the two Prime Ministers, and whether there will be any pushback on the actions that the UK may think on taking against India with regards to this? On Maldives, sir, like you mentioned, there's been a large development partnership, the twin instruments of 400 million US dollars plus 3,000 crores as currency swap agreements from last year, as well as 100 million dollars in aid that's been rolled over. So, are you looking at expanding the development aid during the Prime Minister's visit? And can you give us a sense of how much of, for example, the currency swap agreements have been operationalized and utilized to give us a better sense of that partnership? Thank you, sir. Ayushi Agarwal, ANI: Sir, this is Ayushi Agarwal from ANI. Sir, any progress in timeline or establishing a Maldivian consulate in Bangalore; an Indian consulate in Addu that were announced in October last year during President Muizzu's visit to India? Siddhant Mishra, CNN-News18: Hi Foreign Secretary, I'm Siddhant from CNN News 18. Sir, my question is that will we be explaining to our partners ... UK about TRF's role in Pahalgam terror attack? Will we be using this opportunity? Thank you. Niraj, News 18 India: Sir, Namaste. Niraj hoon News 18 India se. Maldive ke sath do saal pahle samband jab bigde the to Bharatiya paryatakon ki sankhya, Maldive jane walen jo the, unki sankhya me bahut girawat aayi thi. Uske baad Maldive sarkar ne bahut koshish bhi ki thi ki Bharat se paryatak jae. Bharat ka kya expectation Maldive se hai ki jyada paryatak waha pahunche? Bharat kya expect karta Maldive se? [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, Namaste. I'm Niraj from News18 India. When relations with the Maldives had deteriorated two years ago, the number of Indian tourists traveling to the Maldives saw a significant decline. After that, the Maldivian government made considerable efforts to encourage Indian tourists to visit. What are India's expectations from the Maldives in this regard? Does India expect more tourists to travel there? What exactly does India expect from the Maldives? Rishikesh, PTI: Sir, Rishikesh from PTI. Will there be any meeting with opposition leaders in Maldives? And the second question, with the public debt of Maldives reaching around 135% of the GDP, and also Maldives have to pay around 1.6 billion dollar by next year. So, is there any proposals to assist Maldives in this regard so that they could avoid default? Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary: With regard to the question on discussions with the UK on what are obviously developments in which they are interested, we would also want to exchange thoughts and opinions on these issues. We have not yet seen any actions by the UK so far as matters related to secondary sanctions etc. are concerned. In any case, we have made very clear our view with regard to secondary sanctions. I think what you are pointing to in terms of the recent announcement by the European Union, we have been very clear that in so far as energy security is concerned, it is the highest priority of the government of India to provide energy security for the people of India and we will do what we need to do with regard to that. On energy related issues itself also, as we have said previously, it is important not to have double standards and to have a clear-eyed perception of what the global situation is in so far as the broader energy market is concerned and where the providers of energy goods are located and where they are going to come from and who needs energy at what point in time. I think these matters are not appreciated sufficiently. We do understand that there is an important and serious security issue that is confronting Europe, but the rest of the world is also there and is also dealing with issues that are existential for the rest of the world. And I think it is important to keep balance and perspective when talking about these issues. In so far as expanding the development partnership with the Maldives is concerned, as I said, there are a number of initiatives that are being looked at and during the visit, please stay tuned, there are likely to be further announcements related to the development partnership itself. On consulates in each other's countries, these matters continue to be discussed between the two sides. We are in very close touch on these. We will update you on the developments on these. On the TRF role in Pahalgam, you are aware of recent developments also in that regard. The United States State Department has recently designated the TRF as a foreign terrorist organization and a specially designated global terrorist and a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. I am sure our UK colleagues are updated on this development, but this will give us the opportunity to share further views on issues such as cross-border terrorism and the need to respond in resolute fashion to such challenges. Niraj, aapka prashn tha ki jo Maldives mein paryatako ki sankhya hai unko badhane ke vishay mein hamari kya apeksha hai Maldives se. Aapko shayad jankari hogi iske bare mein ki dono desho ke beech kuch samay se baat chit chal rahi hai kai aise vishayon pe jo isme sahuliyat pradan kar sakte hain, jaise humne jahan tak trade ka sawal hai waha to local currency settlement system ki baat chit dono desho ke beech mein chal rahi hai, jahan tak paryatan ka sawal hai waha pe UPI jo kai aur desho ke sath hamara samjhota hua hai, Maldives ke sath bhi iske bare mein ek samjhota karne pe baat chit chal rahi hai isse paryatko ko kafi sahuliyat pahunch sakti hai aur jaisa hum hamesha kehte aa rahe hain isse paryatko ki jo sankhya hai usko badhava mil sakta hai, toh in chezo pe aage baat chit hogi aur is yatra ke dauran bhi is pe hum baat chit karna chahenge. [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Niraj, your question was about what expectations India has from the Maldives regarding increasing the number of tourists. You might already be aware that discussions have been ongoing between the two countries on several issues that could help facilitate this. For example, in terms of trade, both countries are in talks about establishing a local currency settlement system. As far as tourism is concerned, discussions are also underway about introducing UPI (Unified Payments Interface) in the Maldives similar to agreements we've made with other countries. This could provide significant convenience to tourists. And as we have always maintained, such steps can help boost the number of tourists. So, these discussions will continue, and we also intend to raise these matters during this visit. On meetings with opposition leaders, there are a number of meetings that are being planned. We'll update you as the visit comes closer on what exactly the itinerary will be. And in so far as the issue related to the financial stability of Maldives is concerned; it is a fact that it has faced a stressful financial environment, and that is why we have been giving a helping hand to Maldives in order to stabilize the financial situation. Our recent assistance has led to accretion in the foreign exchange position of the Maldives, and it is this accretion, as a matter of fact, that has been cited by international financial organizations, including the IMF, as a positive factor that has helped Maldives stave off outcomes that could be difficult for it. This is a dynamic situation. We remain in close touch with our friends and partners in the Maldives to see what else we can do. In any case, as far as the swaps are concerned, my understanding is that the 400 million dollar swap line has been drawn almost completely. Now, perhaps the 30 billion rupee Indian swap line will also be drawn upon. We will keep you posted on these developments as well. Pranay Upadhyaya, TV Today: Pranay Upadhyaya from TV Today. Two clarifications. One on India-UK FTA. If you can give us the volume of this FTA, and which are the tariff lines and the areas excluded from this FTA? On India-Maldives, there have been some infrastructure projects that got stalled due to the strain between the two countries in the recent past. What are the status of those projects? And what do we expect? How do we insulate our infrastructure projects and investment of India in the Maldives? Neeraj Kumar Dubey, PrabhaSkashi: Sir namaskar, main Neeraj Dubey PrabhaSakshi se. Sir Bharat ke sahyog se Maldives mein kai sari vikas pariyojana chal rahi hain to pradhanamantri apne daure ke dauran kya kisi vikas pariyojana ka shilanyas udghatan karne wale hain, khas tor par Bharat ke sahyog se jo Maldives ka Raksha Mantralay ka naya bhavan bana hai uske bare mein. [Approximate Translation: Question in Hindi] Sir, Namaskar. I am Neeraj Dubey from PrabhaSakshi. With India's support, several development projects are currently underway in the Maldives. During the Prime Minister's visit, is he expected to inaugurate or lay the foundation stone for any such development projects particularly the new building of the Maldivian Ministry of Defence that has been constructed with India's assistance? Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary: So, Pranay, insofar as the FTA exclusions are concerned; I think you might point this question at the Ministry of Commerce. They will be able to give you a more comprehensive answer on it. All I would say is that, from my knowledge of the negotiations when they were going on, is that this is a significant agreement. And therefore, the inclusions of tariff lines are likely to be, as and when you see the final details ... are likely to be equally significant. So, by implication, I think the exclusions may not be that many. On Maldives projects, I think at the present moment, all the projects are underway. And I don't see any project that is facing any significant difficulty. Work is underway on all the projects. Aur jahan tak ye sawal hai ki jo yatra ke dauran koi udghatan honge kisi projects ke, jaisa maine kaha kai projects hain jo ek tarah se samapan ke nikat hain aur agar sari details tab tak ho jati hain toh ho sakta hai ki udghatan ho ya koi ghoshna ho unke bare mein. Aapne MNDF ka zikr kiya, aap sahi hain ye ek building hai jis pe kafi kam hua hai ho sakta hai ki sari cheezen, jo formalities hain wo tab tak puri ho jaye aur iske bare mein bhi koi ghoshna ki ja sakti hai, lekin jo final details hai hum usko uske bare mein aapko update karte rahenge. [Approximate Translation: Answer in Hindi] As for the question regarding whether any project inaugurations will take place during the visit. As I mentioned, there are several projects that are nearing completion. If all the details are finalized by then, it is possible that some inaugurations or announcements may take place. You mentioned the MNDF (Maldives National Defense Force) building. You're right that significant work has been done on that project. It's possible that all formalities related to it may be completed in time, and an announcement could be made regarding it as well. However, we will keep you updated on the final details as they become clear. Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson: With that, ladies and gentlemen, we come to the close of this press briefing. Thank you very much. We shall keep you updated on both the visits. Thank you. New Delhi July 22, 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Araqchi explains Iran's conditions for negotiations with the U.S. IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- A member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Parliament quoted Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi a saying if sanctions are lifted and Iran's right to use peaceful nuclear technology is respected, indirect negotiations with the United States will be held before raising the issue of snapback. In an interview with IRNA, Yaqoub Rezazadeh said about the meeting of the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Parliament on Tuesday that Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran Mohammad Eslami were guests of the commission and they discussed and exchanged views on the process of negotiations, the importance of Iran's missile power as a key player in the negotiations, and attention to the country's defense capabilities. He added that in this meeting, the Foreign Minister mentioned that talks with Russia on nuclear issues are planned, and that talks at the level of deputy foreign ministers between Iran and the European Troika on the Iranian nuclear program will be held on Friday in Istanbul, Turkey. Rezazadeh said the Foreign Minister emphasized that if sanctions are lifted and Iran's right to use peaceful nuclear technology is respected, indirect negotiations with the United States will be held before raising the issue of snapback in October. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran to present stance on snapback mechanism at Istanbul talks: Deputy FM IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 New York, IRNA -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of Iran Kazem Gharibabadi says Iran will outline its position on the snapback of sanctions on the country during a meeting with the European trio in Istanbul on Friday. Speaking to IRNA on Tuesday, Gharibabadi said the talks follow recent contacts between the foreign ministers of the three European countries and the E.U. foreign policy chief with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. "We agreed to meet on Friday morning in Istanbul to discuss diplomatic issues and the matter of the snapback mechanism ... and naturally we will present our position," he said. Gharibabadi strongly criticized any attempt to invoke the mechanism, describing it as "a completely unlawful measure." He added, "The snapback mechanism has no legal basis. The J.C.P.O.A. has not been implemented for seven years, and after the U.S. withdrawal, the Europeans also suspended their obligations. What exactly do they now want to demand from Iran?" The senior diplomat emphasized that Iran would use the Istanbul meeting to explain the risks involved in any such European move. "We have already warned about the consequences of this action and will reiterate our position," he said, adding that Iran seeks to explore "mutual solutions to manage the situation." 4354**4353 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran will not give up uranium enrichment program: Araqchi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 22, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has reaffirmed that Iran will not give up its uranium enrichment program despite Israeli-U.S. strikes targeting its nuclear facilities last month. In an interview with Fox News aired on Monday, Araqchi dismissed U.S. attempts to block all enrichment capabilities, saying enrichment has turned into a source of national pride in Iran. "We cannot give up enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride," he said. "Our enrichment is so dear to us." He also said that the damage to Iran's nuclear facilities caused by the U.S. strikes last month was "serious," adding that the extent of the damage "is now under evaluation by our atomic energy organization." Backed by the United States, Israel launched a war of aggression against Iran on June 13, assassinating several high-ranking military commanders and nuclear scientists, as well as more than 1,000 civilians. The U.S. directly joined the war a week later, when it attacked three nuclear sites in Iran in blatant violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). In response, the Iranian Armed Forces pounded key Israeli targets across the occupied territories, as well as the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest U.S. military base in West Asia, forcing a halt to the illegal assault. Araqchi further said if the U.S. wants to deprive Iran of its legitimate rights, including enrichment, "that is not going to happen." "We remain committed to below 5% [enrichment] to produce fuel for nuclear power plants, and we also enriched up to 20% because we have a research reactor in Tehran, which is called the Tehran Research Reactor (TRR)," he explained. "So we are enriching uranium for our own needs, and we once went up to 60% and that was after the sabotage in our nuclear facilities." 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address E3's potential snapback activation lacks legal ground: Iran deputy FM Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 4:03 PM Tehran has once again warned that the European parties to the JCPOA lack legal authority to invoke the deal's snapback mechanism to restore UN sanctions on Iran. Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran's deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs, expressed interest in a negotiated settlement over the fate of the 2015 agreement, which unraveled when the United States exited from it in 2018. Gharibabadi told reporters on the sidelines of his visit to the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday that "any attempt to invoke this mechanism would be completely illegal." The three European signatories, along with China and Russia, are the only remaining parties to the 2015 nuclear deal after the US withdrawal. "From our point of view," the Iranian diplomat stated, "the snapback process has no real legal standing." "The JCPOA has not been implemented for seven years, and European countries ceased fulfilling their commitments after the United States withdrew from the agreement," he explained. "Now what can they claim?" he asked. "Are they going to say what Iran failed to implement? Did they themselves implement the JCPOA so that they can now demand compliance from the Islamic Republic of Iran?" Gharibabadi said Tehran has already informed the European parties of the repercussions of such a move and will continue discussions on July 25 at a meeting in Istanbul. "Our effort will be to see what common solutions we can reach to manage the situation." On his discussions with UN diplomats, Gharibabadi said he has held talks on the E3's stance with various delegations, including the "Friends of the UN Charter" group of more than 20 countries. The deputy foreign minister said he will continue to underscore the "desperate efforts" by the three European states to invoke the snapback mechanism and update UN member states on Iran's diplomatic efforts and on which parties have betrayed diplomacy. Another focus of his discussions is the US-Israeli aggression against Iran. Gharibabadi said it is important for countries to "hear the realities firsthand." "The Zionist regime has engaged in deceptive tactics over the past few Security Council sessionsfor example, claiming the right to self-defense, alleging that Iran poses a threat and should have been attacked preemptively, or insisting they adhered to international law and did not target civilians," he said. "It is necessary to address these deceptions through close contact with other countries, issue the required warnings, and provide accurate and detailed information to international organizations and states," he noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US-Israeli aggression against Iran 'historic test' for UN Security Council: Deputy FM Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 5:32 AM Iran's deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs says the US-Israeli aggression against the country is a blatant crime and a "historic test" for the United Nations Security Council to stand up to such acts. Kazem Gharibabadi, who is in New York to hold political consultations and participate in two high-level UN Security Council meetings on Monday, made the remarks during a briefing meeting with representatives from more than 110 UN member states. He detailed the scope of the military aggression by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran's territorial sovereignty, highlighting its severe implications for international peace and security. He identified Israel as the primary source of regional insecurity and instability over the past eight decades, underscoring that the regime has conducted "more than 3,000 terrorist operations, displaced over seven million Palestinians, martyred hundreds of thousands, and detained more than one million Palestinians.'" Highlighting the dangerous nature of Israel's nuclear arsenal, he emphasized that the regime is "not party to any disarmament or non-proliferation treaties and maintains hundreds of nuclear warheads in its stockpiles." He underscored Iran's peaceful nuclear programconstantly monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) while exposing the hypocrisy of Israel, which for over 30 years has peddled lies to the world and the US about an Iranian nuclear bomb that has never existed. "Where is this so-called bomb?" he challenged. "How absurd is it that a regime drenched in aggression, criminality, and brutalityarmed to the teeth with every weapon of mass destructiondares accuse a committed NPT member state?!'" He noted widespread global condemnation of the US-Israeli aggression on Iran's nuclear facilities, while criticizing three European states, the UK, France, and Germany, as well as international bodies for their complicity. "The Security Council, the IAEA Board of Governors, and others abdicated their duties through either silence or bias toward this blatant violation of international law." "Doesn't this dangerous silence send a message to countries ... that if you are not a member of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, you will not be held accountable, and you will also enjoy privileges and immunity?!" At the meeting, the attendees emphasized the need to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter, confront double standards, and support the legitimate right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to defend itself. Israel 'primarily targeted civilians' In a meeting with Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, the president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in New York, Gharibabadi strongly rejected the regime's claim of 'self-defense' regarding its recent military aggression against Iran, calling it a blatant lie. He added that the Israeli aggression was contrary to the UN Charter and lacked any legal or international legitimacy. Gharibabadi underlined that during the aggression, which resulted in the martyrdom and injury of nearly 7,000 Iranian citizens, most of whom were civilians, the occupying regime violated all established principles and norms of international law. The ICRC head, for her part, stressed the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation with the Islamic Republic. Referring to the good relations between the ICRC and the Iranian Red Crescent Society, Egger noted that some medical aid has already been sent to Iran. On June 13, Israel launched a blatant and unprovoked act of aggression against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and killing civilians. On June 22, the United States also entered the war and bombed three Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, in a clear violation of international law and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Two days later, Iran, through its successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, managed to impose a halt to the illegal assault. E3 bears full responsibility for snapback consequences In another meeting with the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations, Gharibabadi dismissed the recent remarks by E3 (Germany, France and the Britain) regarding the snapback mechanism as legally untenable. He warned that "any attempt to reactivate the snapback mechanism for concluded Security Council resolutions will only exacerbate tensionswith Western parties bearing full responsibility for the consequences." The snapback mechanism was included in UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which endorsed the Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the JCPOA. It allows any one party to the deal to trigger a process that restores all previous UN sanctions on Iranwhich were lifted under the accordif Tehran is found to be in "significant" breach of its obligations. Gharibabadi added that Iran will "firmly defend its sovereignty, independence, and national interests in face of any aggression." At the meeting, representatives from various countries, including, Russia, China, Palestine, Venezuela and others, broadly supported Iran's positions with regard to the recent US-Israeli aggression. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC Aerospace Force vows cast-iron resolve to uphold flag of resistance Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 10:19 PM The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC)'s Aerospace Force has vowed that the force would remain firmly committed to the path of resistance in the face of hegemonic oppression by global arrogant powers. "Iran's Armed Forces, especially the IRGC and its Aerospace Force, see themselves as the flag-bearers of this movement and will always strive to uphold and raise this flag," Brigadier General Majid Mousavi told a televised interview on Tuesday. He attributed the force's determination to continue on this path to the nation's broad support for the cause of resistance. "The great nation of Iran, whom we serve, is the backbone of this path," the commander noted. Mousavi described Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei as the only authority capable of outlining the lofty level of respect that the nation deserved. "Only the Leader can truly define the status and dignity of the people because they (the nation) have always been attentive to his command." He identified Ayatollah Khamenei as the rightful inheritor of the legacy of the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution, which the Aerospace Force would try its utmost to preserve. "Until the end of our lives and as long as there is blood in our veins, we will carry on this great responsibility of guarding the Islamic Revolution," he said, noting that the force viewed the Revolution in a "civilizational" light. The commander paid tribute to his predecessor, Brigadier General Amir-Ali Hajizadeh, who was martyred during an unprovoked Israeli was against the Islamic Republic last month as well as Brigadier General Hassan Tehrani Moghaddam, who served to make indispensable contributions to the force's enhancement. Iran's Armed Forces, including the Aerospace Force, launched at least 22 phases of determined counteroffensives in the face of the war, targeting many critical Israeli nuclear, military, and industrial sites. The retaliation that deployed hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones forced the Israeli regime to request a ceasefire only after 12 days into the war, despite receiving unprecedented American military and intelligence support throughout the course of the aggression. Concluding his remarks, Mousavi further underlined the responsibility that was borne by those, who had taken over the mission of the country's defense after the untimely loss of such dedicated figures as Hajizadeh. Their legacy of "courage and jihad (struggle)" remains alive across the IRGC's operations, he said, adding, "Those who remain on this path bear a great mission on their shoulders." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Araghchi says Iran will not give up its right to enrichment Iran Press TV Tuesday, 22 July 2025 2:23 AM Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has emphasized that the country has no intention of abandoning its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, despite recent military aggression by the United States and its regional ally, Israel. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Araghchi stated that it is clear Iran will not "give up enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists" and a source of national pride. When asked whether any enriched uranium had been preserved from the American strikes, Araghchi said he had "no detailed information," but noted that Iran's Atomic Energy Organization is "trying to evaluate what has exactly happened to our nuclear material, to our enriched material." US President Donald Trump has repeatedly described the strikes as a success, reaffirming on Saturday that all three targeted sites were "completely destroyed." Regarding talks with the United States, Araghchi indicated that Tehran is open to discussions but has no plans for direct negotiations with Washington at this time. He pointed out that Iran is willing to undertake any confidence-building measures necessary to demonstrate that its nuclear program is peaceful, in exchange for the lifting of US sanctions. "We are ready to do any confidence-building measures needed to prove that Iran's nuclear program is peaceful" in exchange for lifted US sanctions, he added, while stressing that any future nuclear agreement must include the right to enrichment. On June 13, Israel launched a blatant and unprovoked act of aggression against Iran, assassinating numerous high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians. More than a week later, the United States joined the conflict by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites, an action which constitutes a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). In response, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories, as well as the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest US military base in West Asia. On June 24, through successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, Iran managed to halt the illegal assault. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran May Consider Direct Talks With US in Case of Equal Approach - Foreign Minister Sputnik News 20250722 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - Iran may consider engaging in direct negotiations with the United States in the future if Washington is ready for equal talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. "Not for the time being, but maybe in the future. Everything depends: if the United States is ready to be with Iran on an equal footing, on mutual respect and based on mutual interests," Araghchi told Fox News when asked whether Tehran will be ready for direct talks with Washington in the future. "Obviously, we cannot give up our enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride. Our enrichment is so dear to us," the foreign minister emphasized. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to Launch More Strikes on Iran's Nuclear Facilities 'If Necessary' - Trump Sputnik News 20250722 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump has said that the United States will carry out new strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities "if necessary." "Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, on the Iran Nuclear Sites: 'Damages are very severe, they are destroyed.' Of course they are, just like I said, and we will do it again, if necessary! ... Fake News CNN should immediately fire their phony 'reporter' and apologize to me and the great pilots who 'OBLITERATED' Iran's nuclear sites," Trump said on social media on Monday. On June 13, Israel launched a military operation against Iran after accusing it of secretly pursuing a nuclear weapon. Airstrikes targeted nuclear facilities, military leadership as well as air bases and killed several military commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran rejected the allegations and retaliated. The United States conducted a one-time attack on Iranian nuclear sites on June 22. Tehran struck the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in response but said it had "no intention of further escalation." Trump suggested Iran had "let off steam" by attacking the Qatari base, opening a potential path to peace in the Middle East. He announced that Israel and Iran had agreed to a ceasefire that formally ended the "12-day war" on June 24. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gharibabadi: Any attempt to activate snapback mechanism is abusive and illegal IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jul 23, 2025 New York, IRNA -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi has stressed that the aggression against Iran is a historic test for the United Nations Charter, and said that the three European countries lack legal status. Gharibabadi made the remarks at the high-level meeting of the UN Security Council in New York on Tuesday. He said that the three European countries lack legal standing, and since they have not fulfilled their key obligations under the JCPOA and supported the aggressor in the recent aggression, any attempt to activate the snapback mechanism, especially on an agreement that has not been implemented for 7 years, is considered abusive and illegal and must be rejected. The full text of statement by Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi is as follows: Statement by H.E. Dr. Kazem Gharibabadi Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran at the United Nations Security Council Open Debate Entitled: "Promoting international peace and security through multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes" (New York, 22 July 2025) In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful Mr. President, Distinguished Delegates, At the outset, I wish to express my appreciation to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, in his capacity as President of the Security Council, for convening this important meeting. In the current delicate global context, the subject under discussion assumes a significance greater than ever before. Regrettably, the international community is increasingly confronted with the rise of unilateralism, the instrumentalization of sanctions, the flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, and a growing disregard for the rule of international law. Mr. President, In Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 32, the Holy Qur'an says, and I QUOTE:"We decreed to the Children of Israel that if anyone kills a personunless in retribution for murder or spreading corruption in the landit is as if he kills all mankind, while if any saves a life it is as if he saves the lives of all mankind."UNQUOTE. Since the establishment of the United Nations and throughout the eight decades of the Security Council's operations, more than three hundred wars and armed conflicts have transpired, resulting in tens of millions of casualties and injuries. Dozens of legitimate governments have been overthrown as a consequence of foreign interventionsprimarily by the United States. In its capacity as a permanent member of the Council, the U.S. has vetoed more than eighty draft resolutions of the Security Council. The Israeli regimewhich has gone so far as to weaponize even food and water against innocent civilianshas, over the past eight decades, carried out more than 3,000 terrorist operations, displaced over seven million Palestinians, martyred and wounded hundreds of thousands, and imprisoned more than one million Palestinians. This is the very same regime that has launched military aggressions against its neighbors, remains a party to none of the international instruments on disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and maintains hundreds of nuclear warheads in its arsenal. And you are well aware of the catastrophic consequences that the possession of nuclear weapons by such a criminal regime entails for international peace and security. During this very same period, and notwithstanding the United States' unconditional support for this regime and its exercise of the veto against more than fifty-five draft resolutions submitted to the Security Council in response to the regime's atrocities, over five hundred and fifty resolutions have been adopted against it by the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Security Council, and the Human Rights Council. Yet none has been implementeddue to the political shielding extended by certain States that purport to champion human rights and the cause of international peace and security. Mr. President, With such a heinous record of crime and aggression, in the early hours of 13 June 2025, the Zionist regimeunder the command of a war criminal against whom an arrest warrant has been issued by the International Criminal Courtlaunched an act of aggression, in flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations and the fundamental principles of international law, initiating armed attacks against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The United States, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, subsequently and in full complicity with the aggressor regime, conducted a series of strikes against three of Iran's safeguarded, peaceful nuclear installations under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency. In a statement steeped in deceit, the representative of the regime, addressing this Council on 20 June, claimed that the military aggression against Iran had been carried out in full conformity with international law, in adherence to the principles of distinction and proportionality, and that only military targets had been struck. I hereby inform the Security Council that the military aggression and campaign of familial assassinations carried out by the regime in question have resulted in the martyrdom of 1,100 individuals, including 132 women, 45 children, and 26 members of medical and healthcare personnel; the injury of 5,750 others; the destruction of more than 8,200 residential units; 17 hospitals and healthcare facilities; 11 ambulances; and various other civilian infrastructures within the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This criminal regime targeted Evin Prison in Tehran, martyring over 70 innocent individuals, including family members of detainees. In another act of aggression, in an attempt to assassinate a university professor, the regime martyred 15 members of his family. In yet another armed assault, the very same regime struck a 14-story residential building, martyring 60 people, among them 20 children. Mr. President, In a letter dated 27 June addressed to the President of the Security Council, the representative of the United States, in an audacious attempt to justify its aggression against Iran's safeguarded, peaceful nuclear facilities, shamelessly claimed that the strikes had been conducted within the framework of Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, allegedly to neutralize the threat posed by Iran's nuclear program to the Israeli regime and international peace and security. Allow me to address these populist and deceitful assertions directly: First, the Islamic Republic of Iran has not, over the course of recent centuries, initiated armed aggression against any State. We have not threatened the United States with military attack. We maintain no military bases in proximity to the United States. In stark contrast, the United States possesses over 5,000 nuclear warheadsan inhumane weapon it has, in fact, employed against innocent civilians in Japan. It operates more than 700 military bases across over 130 countries, with several hundred thousand deployed forces. It has established multiple military installations in the Persian Gulf region and around the borders of Iran. Thus, who is truly the threat to international peace and securityIran, or the United States? Second, Iran's nuclear program has always been exclusively peaceful in nature and has remained subject to the most rigorous oversight of the International Atomic Energy Agency. For over three decades, the Zionist regime has propagated the claim that Iran seeks to develop nuclear weapons, thereby deceiving certain countries and manipulating public opinion. But where, indeed, is this alleged nuclear bomb? Is it not patently absurd that a regime which itself possesses every category of weapon of mass destruction, is party to none of the relevant international instruments, and whose eight-decade record is replete with aggression, atrocity, and barbarism, now levels unfounded accusations against a State Party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons?! Third, the invocation of the right of self-defense under Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations is legally valid only where an armed attack has occurred. In the absence of such an attack, any resort to force constitutes an act of aggression. Neither the United States nor the Zionist regime had been subjected to armed attack by the Islamic Republic of Iran. Distinguished Delegates, While the majority of nations condemned the aggression perpetrated by the Zionist regime and the United States against my country, it is deeply regrettable that three European States, the Security Council, the Board of Governors, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and its Director General, adopted a partisan stance and failed to fulfill their respective responsibilities. One must take heed of the fact that the Islamic Republic of Iran was subjected to aggression by two nuclear-armed regimes, yet the United States and its allies obstructed the issuance of any resolution in both the Security Council and the IAEA Board of Governors. The Chancellor of Germany described the Israeli regime's aggression as QUOTE"the dirty job" on their behalf. The French Minister of Defense openly admitted to military participation in support of the regime. The British Prime Minister, in politically motivated and baseless remarks, sought to legitimize the attacks by portraying Iran's peaceful nuclear program as a threat. The IAEA Director General, rather than condemning these assaults, still remains preoccupied with seeking inspections of the targeted facilitiesostensibly to assess the extent of the damage inflicted upon Iran's nuclear installations through the attacks. Such silence, such complicity in aggression and deliberate inaction have all gravely imperiled the rule of law at the international level. Is this the multilateralism and maintenance of international peace and security that this Council claims to uphold? Is this the justice that the Charter promised to humanity? If the Security Council is incapacitated in the performance of its duties, then what institution remains to safeguard international peace and security? An attack on safeguarded nuclear facilities constitutes a grave crime. What message does the failure of the Board of Governors and the Security Council to issue a resolution of condemnationand the refusal of the Director General of the IAEA and certain permanent members of the Security Council to denounce the attackssend to Member States of the Agency? Why have these States and institutions remained silent in the face of the Zionist regime's refusal to adhere to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and its continued development of a nuclear weapons program? Does this silence not convey to countries such as Iran the troubling message that, should they remain outside the Non-Proliferation Treaty, they would not only bear no obligations, but would in fact be rewardedand enjoy complete impunity? Under international law, the commission of an internationally wrongful act entails international responsibility, and the responsible party is under an obligation to make full reparation and to offer assurances and guarantees of non-repetition. Alongside the legitimate and resolute defense of its people and territory, the Islamic Republic of Iran will pursue all of its rights to the realization of justice through diplomatic, legal, and judicial avenues available under international law, including recourse to international courts and tribunals. States are prohibited from recognizing situations resulting from violations of peremptory norms of international law; failure to observe this prohibition gives rise to their international responsibility. The acts of aggression by the Israeli regime and the United States against Iran constitute a violation of the jus cogens norm prohibiting aggression. Third States are under an obligation not to recognize such acts as lawful, nor to extend any assistance or support for the maintenance of such an unlawful situation. Mr. President, A nuclear-armed State Party to the NPT, together with a nuclear-armed regime outside the framework of the NPT, has launched a military attack against the nuclear facilities of a State Party to the NPTfacilities that were fully subject to the safeguards regime of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Now, three European Statestwo of which are permanent members of the UN Security Council and have themselves violated the provisions of this very Council's Resolution 2231have openly declared their intention to reinstate Security Council sanctions that were initially imposed two decades ago in connection with the very same facilities that are claimed to have been destroyed, and which were subsequently terminated pursuant to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (or JCPOA). Such an extraordinary level of double standards and disregard for the principles and purposes of the United Nations Security Councilon the part of its own membersis truly inconceivable. The three European States lack legal standing; and, given their failure to fulfill key obligations under the JCPOAas well as their support for the aggressor during the recent acts of aggressionany attempt to trigger the snapback mechanism in relation to an agreement that has not been implemented for seven years constitutes a clear abuse of process and is legally invalid. Such an attempt must be unequivocally rejected. Mr. President, We firmly believe that peace is not achieved through bombs and coercion, but through respect for rights, justice, and diplomacy. The normalization of aggression must be unequivocally rejected. The Security Council must not be reduced to a tool at the service of the interests of particular powers; rather, it must serve as the guardian of justice, peace, and security for all nationsirrespective of their size, power, or political orientation. Regrettably, it must be stated with the utmost clarity that the Security Council has either been unable or unwilling to respond appropriately and resolutely to blatant acts of aggression against the national sovereignty of certain States, military occupations, genocide, unlawful economic blockades, and the sponsorship of State terrorism. The list of these failures is long and deeply troubling. History shall be the judge of whether the Security Council has faithfully discharged its solemn responsibilities toward the world's nations. The window for reform, reconsideration, and a return to the foundational principles of the United Nations Charter remains openbut that window will not remain open indefinitely. Mr. President, Distinguished Delegates, Iran is a peace-loving nationbut let there be no miscalculation. We stand united and resolute in the face of aggression and will exact a heavy toll upon any aggressor. The recent acts of aggression occurred while we were engaged in nuclear negotiations with the United Statesan undeniable indication that the U.S. was not negotiating in good faith and that the nuclear issue serves merely as a pretext. The enemies of Iran have set their sights on the independence and national unity of our country. Yet, our powerful armed forces and united people have utterly dashed their hopes. Iran stands proud and steadfast. We did not seek warbut we shall defend our people and homeland with the ferocity of a lion. The aggressors must know that their conspiracies shall failand it is Iran that shall endure. Thank you for your attention. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Consultation between Minister Akazawa and Secretary Lutnick Ministry of Foregn Affairs of Japan July 22, 2025 On the evening of July 22, local time, for over 2 hours, Mr. AKAZAWA Ryosei, Minister in charge of Economic Revitalization of Japan, visiting Washington D.C., the United States of America, held a consultation with the Honorable Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Commerce of the United States of America. The overview is stated in the attached Cabinet Secretariat press release. (Reference) Attachment Cabinet Secretariat Press Release ( English (PDF) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japan - Papua New Guinea Summit Meeting Ministry of Foregn Affairs of Japan July 22, 2025 On July 22, commencing at 3:00 pm for approximately 50 minutes, Mr. ISHIBA Shigeru, Prime Minister of Japan, held a Japan-Papua New Guinea Summit Meeting with Hon. Mr. James Marape, Prime Minister of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, who was paying a visit to Japan as an official Guest of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The overview of the meeting is as follows. Prime Minister Ishiba sincerely welcomed Prime Minister Marape's visit to Japan on the occasion of Papua New Guinea's National Day of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, on July 21, and expressed his desire to further strengthen relations with Papua New Guinea, that will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. In response, Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he received during his visit to Japan and his desire to further develop the relationship between the two countries. Regarding bilateral relations, Prime Minister Ishiba stated that Japan has been contributing to the development of Papua New Guinea in a wide range of areas, including education, infrastructure development, agriculture, forestry and fisheries, and that notes on provision of facilities and training vessels to the National Fisheries University were signed and exchanged last month. Expressing his appreciation for the understanding of the project for collecting the remains of the war dead, he also stated that security cooperation has been progressing, and that he would like to materialize cooperation through OSA (Official Security Assistance). In response, Prime Minister Marape expressed his understanding and cooperation for the project for collecting the remains of the war dead and his gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their cooperation with Papua New Guinea. In addition, conveying Japan's strong support for the unity of the Pacific Islands region and the "2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent" of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Prime Minister Ishiba stated that Japan would steadily implement the commitments Japan made at the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM10) and continue to be a trusted partner of the PIF members including Papua New Guinea. Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his support for Papua New Guinea's candidacy to host APEC in 2033. He also expressed his expectation for Papua New Guinea's participation in the GREENEXPO 2027. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Following the successful intelligence based operation conducted by the security forces in Kalat District of Balochistan on 19 July 2025, during which 4 x terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan were sent to hell; on 21 July 2025, a deliberate sanitization operation was conducted in the surrounding areas. Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan Rawalpindi - July 22, 2025 No PR-228/2025-ISPR Following the successful intelligence based operation conducted by the security forces in Kalat District of Balochistan on 19 July 2025, during which 4 x terrorists belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Hindustan were sent to hell; on 21 July 2025, a deliberate sanitization operation was conducted in the surrounding areas. During the conduct of the operation, four more terrorists of Fitna al Hindustan were hunted down and successfully neutralized. Terrorist hideout was also busted and a large quantity of weapons, ammunition and explosives was recovered. Security Forces of Pakistan, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts by Indian proxies at sabotaging peace, stability and progress of Balochistan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting with Minister of Justice Konstantin Chuychenko The President had a working meeting with Minister of Justice Konstantin Chuychenko in the Kremlin. The Minister of Justice reported on the results of the 13th International Legal Forum in St Petersburg. The discussion also touched on the development of the advocacy system and the professionalisation of legal counsels. July 22, 2025 14:00 The Kremlin, Moscow Minister of Justice Konstantin Chuychenko: Mr President, I would like to briefly report on the results of the International Legal Forum. The level of participation was excellent. We welcomed 23 ministers of justice this year, compared to 20 last year. Nearly 6,000 participants attended the event, including 17 heads of judicial systems from various countries and six prosecutors-general. It was a very high-level meeting, with representatives from academia and the business community also taking part. Around 130 panel discussions and roundtables were held on a wide range of legal issues. The plenary session was titled The Law: Lessons of the Past for the World of the Future. Once again, we had a very high-calibre group of participants. Notably, the President of Interpol also attended and spoke at the plenary session. We intend to continue developing this forum, and I believe it has already become a leading international platform in the field of jurisprudence, and we must strive to maintain its status. If I may, I would also like to say a few words about the Russian advocacy system. It is a vital institution of our civil society. Currently, the legal profession comprises 75,000 practising lawyers. Regional bar associations have been established in all constituent entities of the Russian Federation, including the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. Our lawyers play an active role in providing free legal aid; 10,000 of them are involved in this work and have delivered 155,000 consultations in 2024 alone. I would also like to note that we are working on enhancing the professionalism of legal counsels. After extensive discussions, we reached the conclusion, supported by all the relevant bodies, that this effort should be based within the bar. Citizens have a constitutional right to qualified legal assistance, and we believe that only organisations with established professional and ethical standards can fulfil this mission. The bar meets these requirements. We therefore approached the Government with a proposal, and it has supported our initiative to begin drafting the necessary legislation. It is also worth highlighting the strong involvement of lawyers in the special military operation. Fifty-eight were mobilised, and another 218 volunteered to serve. These are significant figures that reflect the deep civic commitment of the Russian legal community. Sadly, 24 lawyers have lost their lives and 36 have been wounded. Vladimir Putin: 75,000 lawyers? Konstantin Chuychenko: Yes, 75,000 currently in practice. But if we proceed with the proposed reforms to professionalise legal representation through the bar, I believe we may eventually reach 100,000. Vladimir Putin: Good. <...> NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Republic of Mozambique Maria Lucas 22 July 2025 14:04 1238-22-07-2025 Your Excellency Madame Minister, Friends, It is an honour and privilege for us to welcome you in Moscow. This is not the first time you visit our capital city, since you have already been here as Deputy Minister and also as co-chair of the Intergovernmental Commission for Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation. During the brief face-to-face conversation we had just a few moments ago, we recalled the history of the relations between our countries. They go all the way back to the era of the national liberation struggle. I think that since that time our countries have proven more than once that we share a reliable and time-tested partnership. One month ago, we marked 50 years of diplomatic relations. It is quite telling that our countries established these ties on the same day when Mozambique proclaimed its independence. I keep warm memories of my visits to your capital. In fact, I have visited it several times, with the latest trip in 2023. I would like to extend our gratitude to all our friends in Mozambique for their care, hospitality and, importantly, for the constructive approach we have been following when working together in the spirit of mutual respect and by seeking to balance our interests. Our respective presidents and foreign ministers maintain regular contacts, which consistently deliver tangible results, including in terms of identifying additional objectives for our bilateral economic and humanitarian cooperation, assisting Mozambique in enhancing its defence capabilities, as well as in terms of regional and international agendas. I am certain that our today's discussion on bilateral and international matters will benefit both our countries. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Sees West's Line of Escalating Tensions, Including in Nuclear Sphere - Kremlin Sputnik News 20250722 Russia sees the West's policy of escalating tensions, including in the nuclear sphere, and is monitoring the situation in order to outline tasks to ensure security, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday. "We see a line towards escalation of tensions, towards militarization, including nuclear militarization. Our relevant departments are monitoring the development of events in this area and formulating tasks to ensure our security against the backdrop of what is happening," Peskov told reporters, answering a corresponding question from Sputnik. Today there is no basis for holding the summit of the leaders of the Nuclear Five countries, the spokesman added. Moscow hopes that a new round of talks with Ukraine will take place this week, Peskov said. "We hope that it [the third round] will be this week, as soon as we are ready, we will make a statement on the dates," Peskov told reporters. When asked about a timeframe for a possible agreement on the Ukrainian settlement, the official said that it depends on many factors. Russia and Ukraine will have to discuss complex topics during the negotiations, including draft memoranda on the settlement, the Kremlin spokesman said. "The topic of negotiations is quite complex. In addition to other issues, of course, it will be necessary to discuss those very draft memoranda that we exchanged during the second round," Peskov told reporters. The issue of the Ukrainian settlement is so complex that reaching an agreement on conducting exchanges of prisoners of war or returning the bodies of the dead soldiers is already a result, the spokesman added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Interior Minister, UK Home Secretary Discuss Security Cooperation Saudi Press Agency Monday 26/01/1447 London, July 22, 2025, SPA -- Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz met in London on Monday with United Kingdom (UK) Secretary of State for the Home Department Yvette Cooper. The two officials discussed several security-related matters between the two countries' interior ministries. Following the initial meeting, the interior minister and the UK home secretary held a discussion to explore ways to enhance cooperation between the two ministries. Prince Abdulaziz affirmed that the meeting aimed to strengthen security cooperation in line with the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to advancing cooperation with the UK in combating all forms of organized crime and to fostering the exchange of expertise between specialists on both sides. Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud also highlighted the progress in security cooperation through signed agreements, stressing the importance of continuing to strengthen joint security efforts to meet the aspirations of both governments in the security field. The two sides also discussed several items on the agenda during the meeting. Following the meeting, the interior minister and the UK home secretary signed agreements pertaining to future security cooperation between their respective ministries. The two meetings were attended by senior officials from the Saudi Ministry of Interior and the UK Home Department. -- SPA 02:13 Local Time 23:13 GMT 0008 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Can Iran Exploit Sectarian Clashes To Regain A Foothold In Syria? By Kian Sharifi July 22, 2025 Amid deadly fighting between Druze fighters and Bedouin tribal militias in Syria's southern province of Sweida, one question looms: can Iran use these sectarian clashes to reclaim the influence it built during a decade of civil war? For years, Iranian commanders and their proxies underpinned Bashar al-Assad's government, turning Syria into a land corridor that linked allied groups in Iraq and Lebanon. But since the abrupt collapse of the Assad dynasty last December and the partial withdrawal of Russian forces, Tehran's dominance has weakened. Syria's interim president, former rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, has struggled to rein in competing factions, creating openings -- and risks -- for Tehran in the south. The recent violence erupted after the abduction of a Druze merchant and retaliatory kidnappings, which quickly spiraled into widespread bloodshed. Both sides carried out attacks and reprisal killings. When Syrian government forces intervened, they were accused of siding with the Bedouins, sparking direct clashes with Druze fighters and allegations of extrajudicial killings, looting, and arson in areas inhabited by the Druze, a religious minority long concentrated in southern Syria with a tradition of self-governance and ambivalent ties to the state. A cease-fire brokered on July 19 between the government, Druze militias, and Bedouin tribes halted a week of fighting that killed more than 1,000 people. For now, that truce holds, but only tenuously. Power Vacuums And Old Playbooks Iran's long-standing strategy relies less on overt deployments and more on cultivating local militias and proxy commanders. When violence flared in western Syria in March, some accused Tehran of stoking unrest, noting that several militia leaders had been trained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC). At the same time, Iranian officials have positioned themselves as defenders of Syrian sovereignty, condemning Israeli air strikes as "unhinged aggression" and warning against Western interference. The aim is not purely military; it is also to rebuild political capital among Syrians exhausted by war and wary of foreign domination. Yet Tehran faces steep obstacles. The Druze, who form the majority in Sweida, remain deeply distrustful of Iran and its Shi'ite proxies. Local Sunni tribes, locked in their own struggles, show little interest in outside patronage. Challenges And Risks Adding to these difficulties is Israel's renewed assertiveness. Since the fall of Assad's government, Israeli forces have intensified strikes on suspected Iran-aligned targets near the occupied Golan Heights, vowing to block any re-entrenchment. Israeli officials have even framed some attacks on Syrian positions as protecting the Druze. Complicating matters further is Syria's fractured local landscape, where shifting loyalties and the rise of warlord rule make any Iranian gains volatile and short-lived. Meanwhile, Iranian allies elsewhere -- particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon -- have been weakened by heavy losses in recent fighting with Israel. Beyond Syria, Iran's network of armed proxies has stepped up activity. Houthi forces in Yemen recently ended months of calm in the Red Sea with strikes on two commercial vessels. In Iraq, Iran-aligned militias are suspected of disrupting oil production in the Kurdistan region. And in recent months, Syrian forces and the Lebanese Army have intercepted multiple rocket shipments bound for Hezbollah, which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and other Western countries. These actions highlight Tehran's resolve to sustain its proxy network as a core element of its deterrence strategy. Even if large, regular arms shipments are no longer feasible, Iran is intent on signaling that it remains influential and far from the weakened power some might assume. For now, Tehran's approach in Syria is likely to be incremental and indirect, shaped by dwindling resources and heightened scrutiny. Rather than dramatic moves, it will lean on covert arms transfers and efforts to rebuild local alliances. Yet as long as Israel is watching, Iran's bid to reestablish a strong foothold in Syria will remain fraught and uncertain. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-syria-druze- clashes-return-israel/33480821.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 Lai calls for democratic cooperation amid authoritarian threats ROC Central News Agency 07/22/2025 07:41 PM Taipei, July 22 (CNA) President Lai Ching-te () on Tuesday called for deeper cooperation among democracies in the face of growing authoritarian threats, during separate meetings with visiting European and Irish parliamentary delegations. Speaking to members of the European Parliament's Special Committee on Foreign Interference in all Democratic Processes (EUDS) in Taipei, Lai underscored the need for democracies to share experiences and collaborate on cybersecurity, media literacy and societal resilience. Lai's meetings with the two delegations were held behind closed doors, and the Presidential Office issued press statements featuring remarks from both Lai and the visiting parliamentarians after the meetings. The president noted that both Taiwan and the European Union have been targets of "information interference" and "infiltrations from external forces" aimed at swaying elections and sowing social division. On Taiwan's side, he said the government's efforts to build societal resilience have involved multiple areas of government -- including domestic and foreign affairs, defense and information security -- as well as collaboration with the private sector. "The efforts made by democratic countries are not intended to confront anyone, but to safeguard their cherished way of life," the president said. Echoing that sentiment, Nathalie Loiseau, chair of the EUDS, said both Taiwan and the EU have faced similar threats, including disinformation, cyberattacks, and gray-zone tactics, referring to coercive actions that fall short of open armed conflict. The EU and Taiwan should strengthen cooperation in countering such threats from authoritarian regimes, added Loiseau, whose group is tasked with monitoring threats posed by foreign actors attempting to interfere in democratic systems. Loiseau is leading a delegation that also includes MEPs Engin Eroglu, chair of the Delegation for Relations with the People's Republic of China; Tomas Zdechovsky, Micha Wawrykiewicz, Kathleen Van Brempt, and Marketa Gregorova. In a separate meeting later the same day with a cross-party delegation from Ireland, Lai stressed that Taiwan continues to prove itself a trustworthy democratic partner, especially as authoritarianism expands globally. He made the remarks during a meeting with the delegation led by John McGuinness, deputy speaker of Dail Eireann, the lower house of the Irish Parliament. Lai highlighted shared values and alignment in technology and economic policies, expressing hope that Taiwan and Ireland can work together to build a values-based semiconductor supply chain. McGuinness, who is leading a five-member delegation to Taiwan from July 20-26, noted that both sides can collaborate on artificial intelligence and expand bilateral trade. (By Teng Pei-ju) Enditem/AW NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. House passes bill on deterring Chinese aggression against Taiwan ROC Central News Agency 07/22/2025 11:48 AM Washington, July 21 (CNA) The U.S. House of Representatives on Monday passed a bill that seeks to deter Chinese military action by exposing the corruption of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials in the event of military action against Taiwan. This bipartisan Taiwan Conflict Deterrence Act was introduced in early February by Republican Lisa McClain and Democrat Brad Sherman, targeting members of the CCP's Politburo Standing Committee and other senior officials whose duties involve matters related to Taiwan. The bill requires that "the Secretary of the Treasury publish a report on financial institutions and accounts connected to senior officials of the People's Republic of China, to restrict financial services for certain immediate family of such officials, and for other purposes." The bill authorizes the treasury secretary to prohibit CCP officials from accessing funds in U.S. financial institutions, and requires that an unclassified summary or portions of the report be made public on the Treasury Department's website and social media accounts in Chinese and English. The bill also requires the treasury secretary to prohibit financial institutions from conducting significant transactions with the immediate family members of the aforementioned officials. "The United States cannot afford to be complacent in the face of growing Chinese aggression," McClain said before the bill's voice vote on Monday. "As a proud representative from the state of Michigan, a state that knows the value of manufacturing, trade and international stability, I know firsthand how vital peace in the Indo Pacific to American jobs and our economy is," she said. The Republican lawmaker later described Taiwan as a democratic partner and a key player in the global supply chain, in particular semiconductors. "This bill sends a clear and bipartisan message, if the CCP rages war against Taiwan, there will be consequences," McClain said. "We're talking real, targeted consequences for corrupt CCP elites, their financial dealings and offshore accounts will be exposed and published for the Chinese people to see," she said. The bill needs to be passed by the Senate before it can be signed into law by the U.S. President. The Taiwan Conflict Deterrence Act was unanimously passed by the House in the previous session, but it did not make it on to the Senate's agenda. (By Chung Yu-chen and Ko Lin) Enditem/ls NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/07/22 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Date 6 a.m. Jul. 21 (Mon.) to 6 a.m. Jul. 22 (Tue.) (UTC+8) 2. PLA activities 8 PLAN ships and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities. 3.Illustration of flight path is not provided due to no PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan were detected during this timeframe. 1140722_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/07/23 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Date 6 a.m. Jul. 22(Tue.) to 6 a.m. Jul. 23(Wed.) (UTC+8) 2. PLA activities 4 sorties of PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN ships and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 2 out of 4 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities. 1140723_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window] 1140723_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan [Open a new window] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK-Egypt Strategic Partnership: 22 July 2025 A Strategic Partnership between the UK and Egyptian governments. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street Published 22 July 2025 The UK and Egypt share deep, historic ties. We partner across multiple fields, from climate change to global security, trade and investment to tourism, underpinned by rich people-to-people and cultural connections. However, both countries aspire to strengthen this co-operation in pursuit of shared prosperity and greater regional and global security. The Governments of Egypt and the UK have therefore committed to elevating the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. This commitment marks a significant milestone and will enable both governments to strengthen and systematise existing collaboration in line with shared interests and priorities such as trade and investment, irregular migration, regional security and responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UK and Egypt will launch the Strategic Partnership during a visit to Cairo by the Prime Minister in the autumn of 2025. To unlock new mutual growth opportunities and strengthen economic ties, the Prime Minister and President Sisi will jointly chair an Investment Conference convening key British and Egyptian businesses. The UK Government looks forward to building the Strategic Partnership with Egypt to enhance the prosperity and security of our citizens. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK Carrier Strike Group contributes to Exercise Talisman Sabre The UK Carrier Strike Group has led a major British contribution to the large multinational exercise in Australia. From: Ministry of Defence and The Rt Hon John Healey MP Published 22 July 2025 More than 3,000 British forces are taking part in the largest military exercise Australia has ever hosted, as the UK's Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) demonstrates Britain's unwavering commitment to Indo-Pacific security. The Carrier Strike Group is in Australia as part of Operation Highmast, the major global deployment that demonstrates Britain's strategic commitment to the Indo-Pacific. From British Gurkhas to US Marines to Australian Defence Force amphibious specialists, Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 serves as one of the deployment's key moments, bringing together multinational forces to strengthen and test how nations can work together to safeguard global trade routes and maintain regional stability. Spanning across a vast area in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland, and New South Wales, the Australian-US led biennial exercise is bigger than ever, involving over 35,000 military personnel from 19 nations - making Talisman Sabre the largest exercise of the CSG's deployment and one of the largest military exercises in the world this year. For the first time, offshore activities will also be conducted in Papua New Guinea. Defence Secretary John Healey said: The historic bonds between Britain and Australia run deep, and through AUKUS and exercises like Talisman Sabre we are strengthening these ties for the challenges of tomorrow. Our commitment to the Indo-Pacific is unwavering, as this huge military exercise demonstrates. The unprecedented scale showcases the growing importance of cooperation in addressing shared challenges. We will continue to work alongside our closest allies to maintain the security and stability that underpins global prosperity. Commodore James Blackmore said: This is a real demonstration of the UK and our partners' warfighting capabilities. As the first UK-led multinational Carrier Strike Group to Talisman Sabre this is a powerful demonstration of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. Exercise Talisman Sabre is also an opportunity for the UK to develop new levels of integration between systems and capabilities with the US, Australia, and other partners, enhancing our interoperability even further and to unprecedented levels. All three branches of the UK Armed Forces are engaged, with the Royal Marines playing a central role throughout the exercise alongside a Ranger Battalion from the Army and RAF Voyager aircraft. The exercise strengthens operational cooperation with international partners, ensuring our collective ability to maintain the rules-based international order that underpins global trade and security. The Royal Navy, alongside its AUKUS partners, is testing cutting-edge sub-sea and seabed warfare capabilities, showcasing interoperability across our navies. Additionally, for the first time, AUKUS nations will demonstrate the ability to remotely control Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XL-UUVs) from a remote operating centre. Through DSTL via the Resilience Autonomy and AI Technology collaboration, nations tested autonomy-enabled systems able to find and strike an advancing adversary. This experimentation provided a realistic combat environment for AUKUS to operate as an AI-enabled, integrated force, exploiting cutting-edge technology to ensure strategic advantage against a range of simulated adversaries. The CSG25 deployment reinforces the government's Plan for Change by strengthening international partnerships that underpin economic growth and national security, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad. Operation Highmast occurs against the backdrop of the government's landmark commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.6% of GDP. This historic investment underpins the government's mission-led approach to securing Britain's future, providing the economic stability necessary for growth whilst ensuring the UK maintains cutting-edge capabilities such as the Carrier Strike Group to meet emerging global threats. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New section "Military Personnel" added to the classifier of occupations Ukraine Government Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, posted 22 July 2025 17:25 The Ministry of Economy has introduced a new section, "Military Personnel," to the National Classifier of Occupations. The occupations in this section apply exclusively to military personnel and operational reserve reservists of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the State Special Transport Service, and the National Guard of Ukraine. "For the first time since Ukraine's independence, the professions of military personnel have been formalised in the Classifier of Occupations. This step will not only enhance transparency in the personnel policy of the Armed Forces and other military formations but also ensure proper recognition of the complexity and importance of military service. Formalising these professions is a key element in building a modern, professional army capable of effectively performing tasks, including in the context of a full-scale war, and integrating into Euro-Atlantic structures," commented Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture Tetiana Berezhna. The professional titles of military personnel in the Classifier of Occupations are divided into three main categories: Officer corps; Sergeant (non-commissioned officer) corps; Enlisted personnel. Specific qualification requirements (level of military education), military rank, and military occupational speciality for each position are determined by the staffing structure of military units, in accordance with the requirements of governing documents. The "Military Personnel" section does not apply to military personnel of special-purpose law enforcement agencies, the Security Service of Ukraine, the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine, or the State Guard Department of Ukraine. The section was developed by specialists from the Central Research Institute of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Main Directorate of the National Guard of Ukraine, with consultation from the Ministry of Economy and approval from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine. Background The Classifier of Occupations includes professional job titles (professions, positions, occupations) systematically grouped into professional categories based on the nature and complexity of the work performed, qualifications (level of education, specialisation), and aligned with the hierarchy of the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Protests Erupt As Ukraine Tightens Control Over Anti-Corruption Agencies, Raising International Alarm By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 22, 2025 Ukrainian lawmakers have approved a tightening of restrictions on two crucial anti-corruption agencies, heightening concerns over the country's commitment to rooting out deep-seated graft. A total of 263 deputies in the 450-seat Verkhovna Rada voted in favor of a law that limits the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anticorruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). The law, brought forward by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's the Servant of the People Party, makes the Prosecutor-General the de facto head of SAPO, effectively stripping the agency's chief of their authority. It also allows the Prosecutor-General to unilaterally close cases involving top officials and lets the Prosecutor General reassign cases being investigated by NABU to other agencies. "With this decision, Parliament not only strips society of one of the greatest achievements since the Revolution of Dignity -- independent anti-corruption institutions -- but also undermines the trust of Ukraine's international partners," Transparency International Ukraine said in a note after the approval. "The only way to reverse the damage is for the President to veto the law. Otherwise, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will share responsibility with the Verkhovna Rada for dismantling Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure." Demonstrators gathered in Kyiv, Dnipro, and other Ukrainian cities to protest against the bill. The legal changes come on the heels of a crackdown on NABU itself. On July 21, Ukraine's domestic security agency, the SBU, arrested two NABU officials -- one on suspicion of spying for Russia, the other over alleged business ties to Russian entities -- and carried out dozens of searches targeting agency employees. The SBU claimed some officials had connections to banned political groups, including a fugitive Ukrainian lawmaker's former party. NABU, which has led high-profile investigations that embarrassed senior officials, said the operation went far beyond legitimate security concerns, extending to unrelated issues such as years-old traffic violations. The agency warned that the scope of the crackdown had effectively paralyzed its mission. Transparency International called the raids an example of "massive pressure" on Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions. The ambassadors of the Group of Seven nations in Kyiv, who met with NABU's leadership shortly afterward, issued a statement expressing "serious concerns" and said they would raise the matter directly with government leaders. The latest moves have reignited broader fears that Ukraine's deeply rooted problems with corruption are not being tackled, with efforts to promote accountability and transparency facing pushback from powerful vested interests. Last week, Vitaliy Shabunin, one of Ukraine's most prominent activists on corruption issues and the number 2 at NABU, was in court for allegedly systematically evading military service while claiming army pay worth $1,200 per month and illegally using a military vehicle. Investigators said Shabunin could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of the charges. His supporters have called the charges "absurd," noting that he was absent from his unit because he was seconded to work at NABU, on an official government anti-corruption body. "The case results from either the "complete incompetence of officials" or a "targeted attack aimed at putting pressure on Vitaliy Shabunin, who, while serving in the military, continued to criticize the work of state bodies," a statement by 59 Ukrainian non-governmental organizations issued on July 15 said. Even a lawmaker from Zelenskyy's own party, Anastasia Radina, described the case as a "selective miscarriage of justice." International perceptions of corruption in Ukraine are key to the country maintaining confidence from allies who have supported Kyiv in its war against invading Russian forces. Corruption remains a persistent internal threat, illustrated by a series of scandals in recent years involving the Defense Ministry, national prosecutors, and wealthy businessmen. Zelenskyy's landslide election victory in 2019 was widely seen as another push to try to move society beyond old habits: away from bribery and kickbacks -- big and small -- and toward transparency and accountability. Russia's war has made it more difficult. During the invasion, defense planners have been raked over the coals for several eye-popping procurement scandals. Transparency International, whose corruption perception ratings are closely watched around the world, said Ukraine had improved markedly in recent years due to "reforms aimed at European integration and the fulfillment of international obligations." However, the country slipped last year, the group said, because reforms have been "implemented only formally," or the implementation was "being deliberately stalled." Overall, Ukraine rated in 105th place out of 180 countries in the organization's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index -- ahead of Russia and Belarus but behind Moldova, Hungary, and Romania. The United States was in 28th place. With reporting by Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-control-anticorruption- agencies-concern-graft-russia-war/33480917.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 Russian Strikes On Cities Across Ukraine Kill Child Ahead Of New Round Of Peace Talks By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 22, 2025 KYIV -- Russian air strikes targeted several Ukrainian cities early on July 22, leaving one child dead and at least two dozen injured a day ahead of a fresh round of peace talks expected in Turkey. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address late on July 21 that preparations for another prisoner exchange with Russia, along with the peace talks planned for July 23, were under way. Two days earlier, Zelenskyy said he had sent Moscow an offer to hold a new round of talks in the coming week after negotiations between the countries last month made no progress toward ending the ongoing war. The Kremlin has yet to confirm the date or location for the next round of talks, saying only that it was waiting for more details while adding that the two sides still held "diametrically opposed" positions on ways to end the long, deadly conflict. If the sides do meet in Turkey, it would be the first face-to-face gathering in seven weeks. The Turkish government said the talks will be held in Istanbul. "There is our draft memorandum -- there is a draft memorandum that has been handed over by the Ukrainian side. There is to be an exchange of views and talks on these two drafts, which are diametrically opposed so far," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on July 21. The Kremlin has said it welcomes new talks but that the "most important thing for us is to achieve our goals. Our goals are clear, obvious. They have not changed." It also has insisted that any peace agreement sees Ukraine cede control and withdraw from four regions that Russia illegally annexed in September 2022 but never fully captured. Kyiv must also renounce its bid to join NATO and accept strict limits on its armed forces -- demands Ukraine and its Western allies have flatly rejected. Russian state news agency TASS quoted an unnamed source as acknowledging the next round of talks was likely to be in Turkey but could be held on July 24 or 25. US President Donald Trump in recent weeks has voiced frustration over the lack of progress on a cease-fire and last week gave Moscow a 50-day deadline to agree to a deal or face tougher sanctions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has turned down calls from Zelenskyy to meet him in person and has often questioned the elected Ukrainian leader's legitimacy. Previous rounds of talks were held in Istanbul, on May 16 and June 2. Those talks led to prisoner swaps and the exchange of remains of fallen soldiers but no apparent movement on a potential cease-fire. Meanwhile, during the night of July 21-22, Russia struck the Ukrainian regions of Sumy in the northeast, Odesa in the south, and Kramatorsk in the east. According to Oleksandr Honcharenko, the head of the Kramatorsk military administration, a boy born in 2015 was killed and five others wounded when a Russian glide bomb struck an apartment building. The city of Sumy also saw several wounded when five apartment buildings caught fire during an air attack, while more than 20 drones attacked the coastal city of Odesa, leaving more than a dozen casualties, including a child. Despite mounting evidence to the contrary, Russia claims it is not targeting civilian infrastructure with its air strikes. Ukrainian authorities and international agencies, such as the United Nations and the European Union, have accused Russia of intentionally targeting civilians, in what they say amounts to war crimes. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-putin- trump-zelenskyy-turkey-corruption-arrest/33480207.html/a> 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 Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's answer to a Rossiya Segodnya question on the second anniversary of RIA Novosti frontline reporter Rostislav Zhuravlev's death 22 July 2025 17:41 1239-22-07-2025 Question: How would you comment on the second anniversary commemorating the death of RIA Novosti frontline reporter Rostislav Zhuravlev? What is the Russian Foreign Ministry's stance on Kiev's ongoing attacks on Russian journalists? Will Moscow seek to bring those responsible for Zhuravlev's death to justice? Maria Zakharova: Exactly two years ago, we lost Rostislav Zhuravlev, a talented frontline journalist. Like many of his colleagues from other media outlets covering the events on the frontlines during the special military operation, he died in the line of duty. Targeted by the Kiev regime's militants, Rostislav was hit by a high-precision cluster munition from a US-made HIMARS - clear proof of a premeditated, cold-blooded attack. As a media representative, protected under international law as part of the civilian population, he was deliberately chosen as a target. This is further evidence - among many - of the Kiev regime's terrorist nature. The fact that weapons supplied by Western countries are used to kill unarmed civilians, including journalists, cameramen, frontline reporters, and media technicians, makes them complicit in these brutal crimes. Their silence - the lack of condemnation for Zelensky's criminal regime on the part of his Western sponsors - only compounds their guilt. The relevant international organisations also share responsibility for these atrocities. Their silence, or hollow statements instead of swift, decisive action - concrete measures to stop such crimes - only emboldens the Ukro-Nazis, encouraging further terrorist attacks. Russian law enforcement is conducting thorough investigations into every attack on our journalists, whether by militants from Ukrainian armed units or by the Kiev regime saboteurs operating far behind the front lines. No perpetrator will escape justice: every individual involved in these crimes will be identified, hunted down, and punished. For our part, we keep pushing, consistently and relentlessly, for the respective international bodies to do their job. These organisations must act conscientiously, impartially, and honestly under their own mandates to ensure safe working conditions for all journalists without exception, including in conflict zones, and to protect them from targeted violence. We won't let these multilateral forums whitewash the truth or distort the reality of the special military operation while their inaction enables the Kiev regime's heinous atrocities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lavrov Issues Strong Warning Against Goading Ukraine Into Acts of Terrorism Sputnik News 20250722 All attempts to incite Kiev to commit terrorist acts will receive an adequate response, Moscow will achieve all its goals, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday. "Constant incitement of the Kiev regime to continue provocations, continue terrorist acts against civilian objects, against peaceful citizens of Russia ... these actions do not stop. Of course, they will receive a worthy rebuff. Russia will achieve all those goals," Lavrov told reporters following talks with his counterpart from Mozambique. Key Lavrov's statements after talks with the Mozambican Foreign Minister Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas: Trump's reasonable approach, including his willingness to engage in dialogue, will not go unnoticed in Europe. Europe has become rabid and part of the "international disgrace" toward Russia. Incitement of the Kiev regime to carry out terrorist attacks will receive a fitting response. Any threats from Germany toward Russia cause concern for any reasonable person. Historical lessons must not be forgotten, but they have been poorly learned by the current generations of Germans and French. The next session of the Russian-Mozambican intergovernmental commission will be held in 2026 in the Mozambique's capital of Maputo. Russia is ready to consider any requests from Mozambique regarding the republic's defense capabilities in the field of counterterrorism. The second Russia-Africa ministerial conference is planned for this year in Egypt. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Armed Forces Take Control of Novotoretskoye in DPR Sputnik News 20250722 Russia's Tsentr group of forces have taken control of the settlement of Novotoretskoye in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday. "As a result of resolute actions, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces liberated Novotoretskoye (Donetsk People's Republic)," the ministry said in a statement. Russia's Tsentr group of forces has eliminated up to 365 Ukrainian soldiers over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday. "The losses of the Ukrainian armed forces amounted to up to 365 servicepeople, two combat armored vehicles, two cars, and six field artillery pieces," the ministry said in a statement. Russia's Yug group of forces has eliminated up to 215 Ukrainian soldiers and the Zapad group has eliminated more than 210 Ukrainian troops, the ministry added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vasyl Maliuk at meeting with G7: SSU will continue to root out russian agents in any state agency of Ukraine Security Service of Ukraine 21:11, 22 July 2025 In times of war, the SSU's priority is to fight russian agents and prevent the influence of enemy special services on any government institution of Ukraine. At the same time, the SSU acts exclusively in line with the law and in the interests of the national security of our state. This was stated by the Head of the Security Service of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk at a meeting with representatives of the G7 member states, which was also attended by Prosecutor General of Ukraine Ruslan Kravchenko and Head of the State Bureau of Investigation Oleksii Sukhachov. 'In the conditions of the full-scale war, the presence of russian agents in any state agency is completely unacceptable. There are no exceptions for us, and we will continue to eradicate hostile influence wherever we can. NABU needs to be cleansed of the influence of enemy intelligence services. We will continue to do this together with the Bureau's leadership, supporting them in this,' said Vasyl Maliuk. The Head of the Security Service thanked the G7 member states for their cooperation during the full-scale invasion and support of Ukraine in such a difficult and historic time. Vasyl Maliuk added that the SSU and the Prosecutor General's Office have collected a solid evidence base on all suspected NABU employees. Yesterday, the Security Service detained a russian 'mole' in one of the Bureau's elite units, as well as the head of the NABU's interregional detective departments, suspected of aiding the aggressor state. In addition, MP Fedir Khrystenko, a fugitive from the OPZZh, was served a notice of suspicion in absentia. He is suspected of high treason. According to the investigation, he directly influenced the activities of the anti-corruption agency. 'The proper procedural supervision was provided, and the legitimacy of all the evidence collected was checked. All investigative actions were carried out in full compliance with the requirements of the current legislation. The court also confirmed the legitimacy of the evidence and the validity of the suspicions. For the Prosecutor General's Office, as well as for our colleagues from the SSU and the SBI, compliance with the law is paramount. And we act exclusively within the limits and in the way prescribed by law,' said Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko. The G7 representatives received exhaustive answers to their questions about the work of Ukraine's law enforcement agencies and, in particular, the recent special operation by the SSU and the PGO to neutralise russian influence on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine. 'The SBI, the SSU and the PGO continue to work together to combat crimes in the highest echelons of power. And we will do our job efficiently, regardless of the structures and positions of our suspects,' said Oleksii Sukhachov, Director of the State Bureau of Investigation. Vasyl Maliuk also discussed with the representatives of the G7 states the recent results of the Service's combat work. The SSU Head provided details of the unique special operation Spider Web, which resulted in hitting 41 russian strategic aircraft, as well as the third attack on the Crimean bridge. The SSU Head noted that the SSU Centre of Special Operations 'A' is in the top 3 of the best Defence Forces units in striking enemy equipment using UAVs. The SSU's combat units are constantly destroying the enemy at the front and in its deep rear. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Court finds validity of SSU and PGO materials on NABU officials and places both Bureau officials under arrest Security Service of Ukraine 18:30, 22 July 2025 After reviewing the materials of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office, the court placed under arrest both NABU officials who were detained yesterday on suspicion of working for russian special services and doing business with russia. The court chose the most severe measure of restraint for the defendants, recognising the validity of the evidence base collected by the SSU and the PGO against the officials of one of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies. The term of detention for both defendants will be 60 days without bail. Yesterday, the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine conducted a joint special operation to neutralise the kremlin's influence on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine. During the day, dozens of investigative and procedural actions were taken against the suspects and their associates. As a result of the comprehensive measures, two current officials of the Bureau were served suspicion notices: an employee of the NABU Central Office, who, according to the investigation, works in the most elite closed unit 'D-2' and spied for the russian special service; Ruslan Mahamedrasulov, one of the heads of the NABU's Interregional Detective Departments, who, according to the case, has contacts with representatives of the aggressor country and helps his father, an entrepreneur, to conduct illegal trade with russia. Also, during the documentation of russian influence on the Bureau, the current MP from the now banned OPZZh party, Fedir Khrystenko, was served with a suspicion in absentia. According to the investigation, this MP was a top russian fsb agent (resident) and was responsible for strengthening russian influence on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). One of his contacts was the head of the NABU's detective unit, Oleksandr Skomarov, with whom Khrystenko is in close contact. In 2022, during a full-scale invasion, Skomarov's wife was recorded travelling abroad in a car belonging to Khrystenko's wife. Skomarov participated in the competition for the head of another law enforcement agency of Ukraine - the Bureau of Economic Security. The investigation found that if he won the competition, Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskyi hoped that Skomarov, as the new head of the BES, would help to close the criminal proceedings against him. This information was confirmed by evidence of Kolomoiskyi's correspondence with one of his subordinates. However, Kolomoiskyi is not the only oligarch whom fsb agent Khrystenko tried to help. It has been documented that NABU detectives helped another Ukrainian businessman, Ihor Kolomoiskyi's business partner, Hennadii Boholiubov, escape. In particular, two employees of the Bureau, Skomarov's subordinates, accompanied the fugitive oligarch when he crossed the state border of Ukraine: they were in the next compartment of the train "for safety". According to the investigation, the relevant 'special operation' was also organised by Fedir Khrystenko. During the searches at the residences of Khrystenko, a member of the banned OPZZh party, the investigators found materials from NABU criminal proceedings, including documents on covert surveillance of the suspects, as well as questionnaires of candidates for detectives, which indicates russian influence and systemic leaks of information from the anti-corruption agency. The suspects have been served suspicion notices under several articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine in connection with all the facts uncovered: Part 1 Article 111 (high treason); Part 2 Article 28, Part 1, Part 2 Article 111 (high treason committed by prior conspiracy by a group of persons under martial law); Art. 111-2 (aiding and abetting the aggressor state); Part 3 Article 362 (unauthorised actions with information processed in electronic computers, automated systems, computer networks or stored on the carriers of such information, committed by a person who has the right to access it); Part 2 Article 369-2 (abuse of influence). Investigations are ongoing to establish all the circumstances of the crimes and bring the perpetrators to justice. The offenders face between 12 years in prison and life imprisonment with confiscation of property. The operation is conducted under the supervision of the Prosecutor General's Office. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SSU exposes another seven russian agents preparing terrorist attacks against Ukrainian military and law enforcement Security Service of Ukraine 16:30, 22 July 2025 The Security Service of Ukraine has prevented a new series of terrorist attacks in Ukraine. As a result of pre-emptive actions, seven FSB agents who were preparing to kill Ukrainian defenders with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were detained. The perpetrators were recruited by the occupiers through Telegram channels looking for "easy money". They included three minors. In Dnipro, the SSU counterintelligence exposed two 14-year-old classmates from the town of Kamianske who tried to blow up a National Police patrol car. Following the instructions of a russian intelligence officer, the young men arrived in the regional center, where they took an IED from a cache and placed it under a parked law enforcement car. SSU officers exposed the minors and detained them when they were going to remotely activate the explosives. Three more russian agents were detained in Kryvyi Rih. One of them is a 30-year-old drug addict who used to commit thefts and, after being recruited, manufactured an IED and placed it in a cache in the city. The other two, 18-year-old locals, took explosives from this cache by order of the russians and installed them among the garages to blow up a Ukrainian serviceman. A 14-year-old schoolgirl was exposed in Poltava region who made an IED on the instructions of the occupiers. The girl then hid it in an apartment to which she was sent by her handler. After that, officers of the russian special services planned to conduct a terrorist attack against a Ukrainian serviceman at the said site. The SSU Counterintelligence prevented another terrorist attack in Chernihiv region. This happened thanks to a 17-year-old teenager who contacted the SSU chatbot Burn the FSB-man in advance and informed about the intentions of the occupiers to recruit him to detonate an IED. A 25-year-old drug addict from Vasylkiv, Kyiv region, who arrived in Kamianets-Podilskyi to commit a terrorist attack on the order of the FSB, was exposed in Khmelnytskyi region. The offender was detained red-handed when he placed explosives under the wheel of an AFU vehicle near an apartment building. SSU investigators have notified the offenders of suspicion of committing crimes under two articles of the CCU: - 111.2 (high treason committed under martial law); - 258.2 (terrorist act). The suspects are in custody facing from 12 years in prison to life imprisonment with confiscation of property. The operations were carried out by the SSU Offices in Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Chernihiv and Khmelnytskyi regions under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor's Offices. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SSU and PGO uncover new facts of leakage of classified information from NABU: searches at OPZZh party member's home reveal materials of covert investigations and profiles of NABU detectives Security Service of Ukraine 11:00, 22 July 2025 The Security Service of Ukraine has uncovered new facts of leakage of classified information from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU). During investigative measures at home of the MP from the banned OPZZh party, Fedir Khrystenko, who is suspected of collaborating with the russian FSB and was notified of high treason, the SSU has found NABU materials containing official and classified information. His close relatives now live in the said house. In particular, the SSU has seized documents of covert surveillance of the persons involved in criminal proceedings investigated by the NABU, as well as dozens of application forms of candidates for NABU detectives. Moreover, the profiles contained data on Ruslan Mahamedrasulov, the head of the Bureau's Interregional Detective Department, who, according to the investigation, has contacts with representatives of the aggressor country and helps his father, an entrepreneur, conduct illegal trade with russia. There was also a profile of former NABU detective Tymur Arshavin, who fled Ukraine outside official checkpoints in 2024 and has not returned since. To remind, yesterday MP Khrystenko, who left the territory of Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, was served in absentia with a notice of suspicion under Articles 28.2, 111.1, 111.2 (high treason committed by prior conspiracy by a group of persons under martial law) and 369-2.2 (abuse of influence) of the CCU. According to the investigation, the FSB recruited him during the presidency of Yanukovych. Khrystenko was a liaison of collaborator Armen Sarkisian (aka Armen Horlivskyi), who died in the Moscow bombing, and has close contacts with FSB resident "watching" for the so-called DNR Yurii Ivaniushchenko (aka Yura Yenakiievskyi). Fedir Khrystenko has close relations with the NABU senior officials, including Ruslan Mahamedrasulov, the head of the Bureau's Interregional Detective Department, who was detained by the SSU yesterday on suspicion of doing business with russia and contacts with ruscists. In addition, Khrystenko contacts the head of the NABU detective unit, Oleksandr Skomarov. According to investigators, NABU detectives subordinate to Skomarov facilitated the escape abroad of Ihor Kolomoisky's business partner, Hennadii Boholiubov. It has been established that this "special operation" was also organized and led by Fedir Khrystenko. The SSU is taking comprehensive measures to establish all the circumstances of possible infiltration of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau by russian intelligence services. The investigation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General's Office. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Anti-Corruption Infrastructure Will Work, Only Without Russian Influence - It Needs to Be Cleared of That - Address by the President President of Ukraine 23 July 2025 - 01:33 I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians! It's been a long emotional day. We held a meeting with our negotiation team. Rustem Umerov will lead the delegation at the next meeting with the Russian side. We have agreed on what exactly the agenda of the meeting should be and which topics are key for Ukraine. The release of our people from Russian captivity must continue. And it's exactly right now that the necessary procedures for a new exchange have already begun - tomorrow we are expecting our people to return. I truly hope everything goes well for us tomorrow. We are doing our best, including with the help of our partners, international mediators, we are doing our best to secure also the release of civilian hostages and the return of our children abducted by Russia. The task is to work towards a ceasefire. This is what the whole world is urging Russia to do. The task is to work on organizing a leaders' meeting. This is something that could bring us closer to peace. Ukraine has never wanted this war. And it is Russia that must end this war that it started itself. I am grateful to all our partners who are helping. Our delegation includes everyone capable of addressing every necessary detail. There were also important decisions today regarding our defense aimed at increasing the safety of our cities and our communities. We now have new contracts for interceptor drones. It's in addition to the drone production volumes we've already purchased, including from partners. There are four more significant contracts worth over UAH 3 billion. Our military, along with the Ministries - primarily Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal and First Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov - are working on this; and there must be more defensive drones. We are also securing all necessary contracts for frontline drones - the ones that are most effective. And we will definitely continue our deep strike program - I have approved new volumes. And, of course, this is a major contribution: Russian logistics, Russian military facilities, everything that works for aggression - these are all legitimate targets. There were reports from the front - especially our Pokrovsk direction and some other areas in the Donetsk region. The situation is difficult, but I am grateful to each of our units for their resilience, for clearing our land of occupier, and for real results in defending our state, our cities, and our people. Defense is not a ritual word - it is concrete defense of Ukraine's frontline positions, the protection of people's lives, and the concrete defense of the Ukrainian national interest to end the war with dignity, in a way that preserves Ukraine's independence. And that will happen. I thank everyone who is fighting and working for the sake of the Ukrainian state and Ukrainian people. I thank all those who are helping. One more thing. I spoke with NABU Director Semen Kryvonos, SAPO Prosecutor Oleksandr Klymenko, Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko, and Head of the Security Service of Ukraine Vasyl Maliuk. We discussed various challenges, all of them. The anti-corruption infrastructure will work, only without Russian influence - it needs to be cleared of that. And there should be more justice. Of course, NABU and SAPO will work. And it is important that the Prosecutor General is determined to ensure that in Ukraine the inevitability of punishment for those who go against the law is actually ensured. This is what Ukraine really needs. The cases that have been lying dormant must be investigated. For years, officials who have fled Ukraine have been casually living abroad for some reason - in very nice countries and without legal consequences - and this is not normal. There is no rational explanation for why criminal proceedings worth billions have been "hanging" for years. And there is no explanation why the Russians can still get the information they need. Important is - without Russians. Important is - to have an inevitability of punishment and that society really sees it. And one more point - so that there are no fakes or information manipulations. Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft today - a French machine, a very effective one - one of our Mirage jets. The pilot managed to save himself, and this was not a Russian shoot-down. We will make our army stronger. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES CALGARY, Alberta, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Uranium Corp. (CSE: GURN | FRA: Q3J) (the Company) announces a non-brokered private placement financing (the Offering) of a Company (each, a Unit), minimum of 6,666,666 units of the Company (each, a Unit) up to a maximum of 10,000,000 Units, at a price of C$0.15 per Unit, for gross minimum proceeds of C$1,000,000 and gross maximum proceeds of C$1,500,000. Each Unit shall be comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a Share) and one Share purchase warrant (Warrant), with each Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one Share at a price of C$0.20 for a period of 24 months from Closing (as defined herein). Closing of the Offering is anticipated to occur on or about August 11, 2025 (Closing), subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals. The net proceeds of the Offering are intended to be used for exploration activities, for general administrative expenditures, and for general working capital purposes. Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions (NI 45-106), the securities issuable under the Offering will be offered for sale to purchasers resident in all of the provinces of Canada (except Quebec) pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A.2 of NI 45-106 (the LIFE Exemption). As such, the securities issued to subscribers will not be subject to resale restrictions in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. This Offering is not an amendment to, or an extension of, the offering originally announced in the Companys news release dated June 10, 2025. The Company has chosen to discontinue that offering. The offering document originally filed by the Company on June 10, 2025, in connection with such offering document is hereby withdrawn by the Company. There is an offering document dated July 22, 2025, related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at https://www.globaluranium.com. The offering document contains further details regarding the Offering, including additional detail regarding the expected use of proceeds therefrom. Prospective investors in the Offering should read this amended and restated offering document before making an investment decision. The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any United States 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 any available exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable United States state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. ABOUT GLOBAL URANIUM CORP. Global Uranium Corp. focuses on exploring and developing uranium assets primarily in North America. The Company currently holds key uranium projects: the Wing Lake Property in the Mudjatik Domain of Northern Saskatchewan, Canada; the Northwest Athabasca Joint Venture with Forum Energy Metals Corp. and NexGen Energy Ltd. in the Northwest Athabasca region of Saskatchewan, Canada; the Astro Uranium Project with Cosa Resources Corp in the eastern Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan; and the Great Divide Basin District Projects, the Gas Hills District Projects, and the Copper Mountain District Projects in Wyoming, USA. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ungad Chadda CEO and Director 587-330-0045 info@globaluranium.com 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 belief 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 Offering, including the total amount of securities sold to the offering, anticipated proceeds, the expected use of proceeds, satisfaction of conditions to closing, and the closing (including the proposed closing date) of the Offering, if it is to close at all. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including the assumption that the Company will close the Offering on the timeline anticipated, will raise the anticipated amount of gross proceeds from the Offering and will use the proceeds of the Offering as anticipated. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of the Companys management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts 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: the risk that the Offering does not close on the timeline expected, or at all; the risk that the Company raises less than the anticipated amount of gross proceeds from the Offering; the risk that the Company does not use the proceeds from the Offering as currently expected; risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to receiving requisite permits and approvals, changes in project parameters or delays 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; that mineral exploration may be unsuccessful or fail to achieve the results anticipated by the Company; operational risks; regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits; financing, capitalization and liquidity risks; title and environmental risks; and risks relating to the failure to receive all requisite regulatory approvals. 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 Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release. Chinese researchers bring oracle bone inscriptions back to life People's Daily Online) 15:13, July 23, 2025 Photo shows an oracle bone inscription. (Photo courtesy of Anyang Normal University) At the oracle bone inscription information processing key laboratory at Anyang Normal University in central China's Henan Province, a wall showcases the progress of research on Jiaguwen, or oracle bone inscriptions, through technology, bringing these ancient characters to life and highlighting the deep history of Chinese civilization. To bring Jiaguwen into modern life, Liu Yongge, head of the key laboratory, and his team have dedicated 25 years to invigorating these ancient characters. In the lab's meeting room hangs a piece of calligraphy that reads, "Endangered but not forgotten; obscure but not lost." It was penned in the fall of 2023 by a teacher from a primary school in Beijing. Liu recalled that summer he received an unexpected call from the school. A teacher had seen the lab's set of physical exercises designed based on oracle bone inscriptions online and wanted to visit. That fall, the school principal led a team to the lab, and the calligraphy was written by a teacher with a passion for brushwork. Liu, who previously was a teacher at the department of computer science at Anyang Normal University, once spent three years making it possible to type out Jiaguwen on the computer. Then, he joined the oracle bone inscription image and text database project applied by Professor Han Jiangsu at the same university in 2004. A student practices radio gymnastics inspired by Jiaguwen, or oracle bone inscriptions on the campus of Anyang Normal University in central China's Henan Province. (Photo/Huo Yaping) "I spent eight years working on this project, digitizing rubbings, research materials, and books to make them easily accessible to scholars," said Liu. As the research deepened, a new initiative was launched to integrate the oracle bone inscription literature, catalog, and character databases. Open to the public in 2019, the platform offers free access and now houses 5,086 characters, 6,234 character forms, and over 30,000 research papers. Liu said that the lab will continue to expand its data, using high-definition imaging, micro-trace enhancement, and 3D modeling to develop a comprehensive oracle bone inscription model. It will also leverage AI for data analysis, including character recognition, shape analysis, and the creation of a knowledge graph. Soon, Liu and his team will travel to France to capture high-definition images of oracle bones at four museums. "This project not only preserves oracle bone inscriptions but also supports ongoing research," Liu said. Using high-definition, macro photography, and 3D modeling, they will take over 150 photos of each oracle bone for comprehensive data collection, enabling digital restoration and preservation. Photo shows the WeChat mini-program of "amazing oracle bone inscription." (Photo courtesy of Anyang Normal University) Nearly 160,000 oracle bones have been unearthed at the Yin Ruins in Anyang, now housed in over 180 institutions worldwide, including museums, libraries, research institutes, and universities. Over time, many have weathered, broken, or even lost their inscriptions, making digital preservation an urgent task. "In addition to France, we also aim to digitize over 400 oracle bones stored in Germany this year," said Liu, who added that last year, they brought back digital data for eight oracle bones from South Korea. Liu and his team are also working to integrate oracle bone inscriptions into daily life. The set of physical exercises designed based on oracle bone inscriptions, launched by Liu's lab, is based on 19 oracle bone inscriptions. Combining ancient characters, music, dance, and physical exercise, it has been promoted in cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. "Only by giving people the chance to engage with oracle bone inscriptions can we help them recognize, understand, and eventually love it," Liu said. "This way, it won't remain a niche subject." (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- STACK Infrastructure (STACK), the digital infrastructure partner to some of the worlds most innovative companies and a leading global developer and operator of data centers, today announced the successful close of an AUD $1.3 billion green financing facility to fund the next phase of development at its MEL01 hyperscale campus in West Melbourne, Australia. The facility was fully underwritten by five Mandated Lead Arrangers and Underwriters (MLAUBs): Deutsche Bank, MUFG Bank, Natixis, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation, and Societe Generale. Since Q2 2024, STACK has executed more than $2 billion in financings to support its operations in Australia. To date, STACK has raised more than $36.1 billion in capital globally, demonstrating strong institutional confidence in STACKs long-term strategy and its ability to support customers digital infrastructure growth across key global markets. This transaction demonstrates STACKs strategic execution in Asia Pacific and highlights our ability to align with long-term capital partners who share our vision, said Preet Gona, Chief Executive Officer of STACK APAC. We remain committed to our clients hyperscale demand in one of the regions most rapidly growing digital infrastructure markets. The structure of the facility enhances STACKs ability to scale efficiently in response to demand. By leveraging high-quality, income-generating assets, STACK secured favorable terms that enable continued investment in critical infrastructurereinforcing its role as a premier digital infrastructure partner in Asia Pacific and across a globally diversified platform. With operations spanning four countries in the region and an expanding footprint across key international markets, STACK continues to execute on its long-term global growth strategy. About STACK Infrastructure STACK is a proven, trusted partner for the worlds most innovative companies, designing, developing, and operating sustainable global digital infrastructure. Backed by an unmatched record of reliable delivery and development expertise, STACK brings speed, scale, certainty, and responsibility to the demands of a rapidly evolving digital infrastructure landscape. For more information about STACK, please visit: www.stackinfra.com. Media Contact: Sammer Khalaf press@stackinfra.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea3103a6-bd49-4c3c-bcdf-2b71da907b7b NEWTOWN, Pa., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating data privacy claims regarding an incident at Compumedics USA, Inc. (Compumedics). Compumedics learned of a data breach on or about March 22, 2025. If you would like to discuss this case with a lawyer, please click HERE. About Compumedics USA, Inc Compumedics USA, Inc. is a healthcare technology company that creates diagnostic tools for sleep studies, brain monitoring, and blood flow analysis. It operates as the U.S. branch of Compumedics Limited, a medical device firm based in Australia. What happened? On or about March 22, 2025, Compumedics experienced a disruption of its IT systems due to an unauthorized intruder. An investigation revealed that between February 15 and March 23, 2025, an unknown party accessed certain systems and may have viewed or copied files containing sensitive information. The compromised data may include names, birth dates, demographic details, medical record numbers, diagnosis and treatment information, provider names, Social Security numbers, health insurance details, and results from sleep studies. Approximately 318,150 individuals were affected by this data breach. How can I protect my personal data? If you receive a data breach notification concerning Compumedics, you should take steps to protect yourself against identity theft and fraud by regularly reviewing your account statements and monitoring your credit reports for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating a class action lawsuit to seek legal remedies for individuals whose sensitive personal data may have been compromised as a result of the Compumedics data breach. For more information, please contact: Marc H. Edelson, Esq. EDELSON LECHTZIN LLP 411 S. State Street, Suite N-300 Newtown, PA 18940 Phone: 844-696-7492 ext. 2 Email: medelson@edelson-law.com Web: www.edelson-law.com About Edelson Lechtzin LLP Edelson Lechtzin LLP is a national class action law firm with offices in Pennsylvania and California. In addition to cases involving data breaches, our lawyers focus on class and collective litigation in cases alleging securities and investment fraud, violations of the federal antitrust laws, employee benefit plans under ERISA, wage theft, and consumer fraud. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions. Equinor (OSE:EQNR, NYSE:EQNR) delivered an adjusted operating income* of USD 6.53 billion and USD 1.74 billion after tax* in the second quarter of 2025. Equinor reported a net operating income of USD 5.72 billion and a net income of USD 1.32 billion. Adjusted net income* was USD 1.67 billion, leading to adjusted earnings per share* of USD 0.64. Solid financial results Strong operational performance and production growth Higher US onshore gas production capturing higher prices Stable cost and capex in line with guidance Balance sheet remains robust through lower price environment Strategic progress Delivered key milestones on Johan Castberg, Johan Sverdrup phase 3 and Fram South/Troll Announced divestment of the Peregrino field in Brazil for USD 3.5 billion Financial close of Baltyk 2 & 3 offshore wind projects in Poland Empire Wind 1 project development back in execution. Impairments driven by regulatory changes for future offshore wind projects leading to a loss of future synergies on South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, and increased exposure to tariffs Capital distribution Ordinary cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share, third tranche of share buy-back of up to USD 1.265 billion Expected total capital distribution of USD 9 billion in 2025 Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA: We are on track to deliver production growth in 2025 in line with our guidance. Strong operational performance and Johan Castberg reaching plateau are key contributors this quarter. In todays volatile markets we stay committed to being a long-term energy provider to Europe. Last year, we strengthened our onshore gas portfolio in the US and this has created substantial value this quarter, with a fifty percent increase in gas production at prices almost eighty percent higher than the same time last year. We continue to progress our portfolio in renewables, and the Empire Wind 1 project development is back in execution. We have reached financial close for the Baltyk 2 & 3 offshore wind projects in Poland at favourable terms, contributing to strong returns. Solid production Equinor delivered a total equity production of 2,096 mboe per day in the second quarter, up 2% from 2,048 mboe in the same quarter last year. On the Norwegian continental shelf the operational performance was strong. New production from the Johan Castberg field reaching plateau and Halten East contributed. Together, this offset natural decline, impact from the turnaround at Hammerfest LNG and maintenance at the Kollsnes processing plant. The acquisition of additional interests in US onshore assets in 2024, and higher production from these assets, contributed to a 28% increase in oil and gas production from US in the second quarter, compared to the same period last year. The production from the international upstream segment, excluding US, is down compared to the same quarter last year, due to exits from Nigeria and Azerbaijan in 2024. Higher production in Brazil, and new wells in Argentina and Angola, contributed positively. The total power generation from the renewable portfolio was 0.83 TWh. The increase compared to second quarter last year is due to ramp up of power production from Dogger Bank A and new production from the onshore wind farm Lyngsasa in Sweden which was acquired in first quarter 2025. In the quarter, Equinor completed 5 offshore exploration wells on the NCS with 2 commercial discoveries. Strong financial results Equinor delivered an adjusted operating income* of USD 6.53 billion and USD 1.74 billion after tax* in the second quarter of 2025. The results are affected by lower liquids prices, which were partially offset by higher gas prices and higher production. The reported net operating income of USD 5.72 billion is down from USD 7.66 billion in the same quarter last year. This is impacted by an impairment of USD 955 million due to regulatory changes causing loss of synergies from future offshore wind projects and increased exposure to tariffs. Of this, USD 763 million is related to Empire Wind 1/South Brooklyn Marine Terminal project and the remainder is related to the Empire Wind 2 lease. Equinor realised a European gas price of USD 12.0 per mmbtu and realised liquids prices were USD 63.0 per bbl in the second quarter. Adjusted operating and administrative expenses* are stable from the same quarter last year. Strong operational performance generated cash flows provided by operating activities, before taxes paid and working capital items, of USD 9.17 billion for the second quarter. Equinor paid two NCS tax instalments totalling USD 6.85 billion in the quarter. From August, the payments of tax on the NCS will be changed to ten installments annually, and for third quarter Equinor expects to pay two installments of NOK 19.7 billion each. Cash flow from operations after taxes paid* ended at USD 1.94 billion. Organic capital expenditure* was USD 3.40 billion for the quarter, and total capital expenditures were USD 3.58 billion. The net debt to capital employed adjusted ratio* was 15.2% at the end of the second quarter, compared to 6.9% at the end of the first quarter of 2025. The calculation of net debt ratio includes the effect of the Norwegian states share of the share buy-back, at USD 4.26 billion paid in July. Strategic progress Since the end of the last quarter, Equinor progressed projects to facilitate long-term production and value creation on the Norwegian continental shelf. The plan for development and operation on Fram South was submitted and final investment decision was made on Johan Sverdrup phase 3 in the North Sea which are expected to increase the recoverable volumes from the field by 40-50 million boe. After less than three months in production, the Johan Castberg field in the Barents Sea reached plateau on 17 June. The same month, an oil discovery estimated at approximately 9-15 million barrels was made in the area and can contribute with additional reserves for the field. Equinor and Centrica signed a long-term gas sales agreement of 55 TWh of natural gas per year for a period of 10 years, demonstrating the importance of long-term gas supplies from the NCS to support the UKs energy security. Equinor continues to high-grade its international portfolio. In the quarter, the sale of the Peregrino field in Brazil for USD 3.5 billion was announced. Equinor will focus on the start-up of the Bacalhau field expected on stream later in 2025 and progressing the Raia gas project. New exploration acreage in the Santos basin was awarded. Financial close was announced on the Baltyk 2 and Baltyk 3 offshore wind projects with financing packages totalling EUR 6 billion. The wind projects are located offshore Poland with an expected total capacity of 1.4 GW. Competitive capital distribution The board of directors has decided a cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share for the second quarter of 2025, in line with communication at the Capital Markets Update in February. Expected total capital distribution for 2025 is USD 9 billion, including a share buy-back programme of up to USD 5 billion. The board has decided to initiate a third tranche of the share buy-back programme of up to USD 1.265 billion. The tranche will commence on 24 July and end no later than 27 October 2025. The second tranche of the share buy-back programme for 2025 was completed on 17 July 2025 with a total value of USD 1.265 billion. All share buy-back amounts include shares to be redeemed by the Norwegian state. *For items marked with an asterisk throughout this report, see Use and reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures in the Supplementary disclosures. Further information from: Investor relations Bard Glad Pedersen, Senior vice president Investor relations, +47 918 01 791 (mobile) Press Sissel Rinde, Vice president Media relations, +47 412 60 584 (mobile) This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act Attachments Approval based on INAVO120 data showing the Itovebi (inavolisib)-based regimen more than doubled progression-free survival compared with palbociclib and fulvestrant alone 1 Up to 40% of ER-positive breast cancers have a PIK3CA mutation and are associated with poor prognosis; this approval helps address an urgent unmet need 2-4 Itovebi is the first PI3K-targeted therapy to significantly extend survival, reinforcing the need for biomarker testing at diagnosis5 Basel, 23 July 2025 - Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today that the European Commission has approved Itovebi (inavolisib), in combination with palbociclib (Ibrance) and fulvestrant, for the treatment of adult patients with PIK3CA-mutated, oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, following recurrence on or within 12 months of completing adjuvant endocrine treatment. Itovebi is the first treatment of its kind to improve survival outcomes for those living with PIK3CA-mutated, ER-positive advanced breast cancer, said Levi Garraway, MD, PhD, Roches Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development. Therefore, the Itovebi-based regimen may help address an important unmet need for people with this subtype of breast cancer. The approval is based on results from the phase III INAVO120 trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in October 2024, which showed a 57% reduction in the risk of disease worsening or death (progression-free survival [PFS]) with the Itovebi-based regimen compared with palbociclib and fulvestrant alone (15.0 months vs. 7.3 months; hazard ratio [HR]=0.43; 95% CI: 0.32-0.59, p<0.001) in the first-line setting.1 The PFS benefit was consistent across all pre-specified subgroups and the Itovebi-based regimen was well tolerated, with no new safety signals observed.1 These results were reinforced by the INAVO120 final overall survival analysis that showed the Itovebi-based regimen reduced the risk of death by 33% (stratified HR=0.67; 95% CI: 0.480.94, p-value=0.0190 [boundary=0.0469]).5 Additionally, the treatment regimen substantially delayed the time to chemotherapy by approximately two years compared with palbociclib and fulvestrant alone (stratified HR=0.43; 95% CI: 0.30-0.60).5 These data were presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting and published in the New England Journal of Medicine in May 2025. Beyond INAVO120, Itovebi is currently being investigated in three company-sponsored phase III studies (INAVO121, INAVO122, INAVO123), all in PIK3CA-mutated, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in various combinations.6-8 We are exploring additional studies in breast cancer and other tumour types with the hope of providing the benefit of this targeted therapy to more people with PIK3CA mutations. About Itovebi TM (inavolisib) Itovebi is an oral, targeted treatment that has been shown to provide well-tolerated and durable disease control in people with PIK3CA-mutated, hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, advanced breast cancer, who often have a poor prognosis and are in urgent need of new treatment options.1,4,9 Itovebi has been designed to help minimise the overall burden and toxicity of treatment and is differentiated from other PI3K inhibitors due to its high potency and specificity for the PI3K alpha isoform versus other isoforms, and unique mechanism of action that facilitates the degradation of mutated PI3K alpha.10,11 In addition to the European Commissions approval, the Itovebi-based regimen is also approved for the treatment of adults with endocrine-resistant, PIK3CA-mutated, HR-positive, HER2-negative, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in the United States, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, United Arab Emirates, China and Taiwan, with data from INAVO120 under review with several other global health authorities. About the INAVO120 study The INAVO120 study [NCT04191499] is a phase III, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the efficacy and safety of Itovebi (inavolisib) in combination with palbociclib and fulvestrant versus placebo plus palbociclib and fulvestrant in people with PIK3CA-mutated, hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer whose disease progressed during treatment or within 12 months of completing adjuvant endocrine therapy and who have not received prior systemic therapy for metastatic disease.12 The study included 325 patients, who were randomly assigned to either the investigational or control treatment arm.12 The primary endpoint is progression-free survival, as assessed by investigators, defined as the time from randomisation in the clinical trial to the time when the disease progresses, or a patient dies from any cause.12 Secondary endpoints include overall survival, objective response rate, and clinical benefit rate.12 Beyond INAVO120, Itovebi is currently being investigated in three company-sponsored phase III clinical studies in PIK3CA-mutated locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer in various combinations: in combination with fulvestrant versus alpelisib plus fulvestrant in HR-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer post cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitor and endocrine combination therapy (INAVO121; NCT05646862). 6 in combination with pertuzumab plus trastuzumab for subcutaneous injection (SC) versus pertuzumab plus trastuzumab for SC and optional physician's choice of endocrine therapy as a maintenance treatment in HER2-positive disease (INAVO122; NCT05894239). 7 in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitor and letrozole versus placebo plus a CDK4/6 inhibitor and letrozole in the first-line setting in PIK3CA-mutated HR-positive/HER2-negative, endocrine-sensitive breast cancer (INAVO123; NCT06790693).8 About oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer ER-positive is a subtype of hormone receptor (HR)-positive breast cancer, the most prevalent type of all breast cancers, accounting for approximately 70% of cases.13,14 A defining feature of ER-positive breast cancer is that its tumour cells have receptors that attach to oestrogen, which can contribute to tumour growth.15 People diagnosed with ER-positive and HR-positive metastatic breast cancer often face the risk of disease progression and treatment side effects, creating a need for additional treatment options.14,16,17 The PI3K signalling pathway is commonly dysregulated in HR-positive breast cancer, often due to activating PIK3CA mutations, which have been identified as a potential mechanism of intrinsic resistance to standard of care endocrine therapy in combination with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors.9 About Roche in breast cancer Roche has been advancing breast cancer research for more than 30 years with the goal of helping as many people with the disease as possible. Our medicines, along with companion diagnostic tests, have contributed to bringing breakthrough outcomes in human epidermal growth factor 2-positive and triple-negative breast cancers. As our understanding of breast cancer biology rapidly improves, we are working to identify new biomarkers and approaches to treatment for other subtypes of the disease, including oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, which is a form of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, the most prevalent type of all breast cancers.13,14 About Roche Founded in 1896 in Basel, Switzerland, as one of the first industrial manufacturers of branded medicines, Roche has grown into the worlds largest biotechnology company and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics. The company pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop medicines and diagnostics for improving and saving the lives of people around the world. We are a pioneer in personalised healthcare and want to further transform how healthcare is delivered to have an even greater impact. To provide the best care for each person we partner with many stakeholders and combine our strengths in Diagnostics and Pharma with data insights from the clinical practice. For over 125 years, sustainability has been an integral part of Roches business. As a science-driven company, our greatest contribution to society is developing innovative medicines and diagnostics that help people live healthier lives. Roche is committed to the Science Based Targets initiative and the Sustainable Markets Initiative to achieve net zero by 2045. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. For more information, please visit www.roche.com. All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. References [1] Turner NC, et al. Inavolisib-Based Therapy in PIK3CA-Mutated Advanced Breast Cancer. NEJM. 2024;391(17):1584-96. [2] Cizkova M, et al. Gene expression profiling reveals new aspects of PIK3CA mutation in ERalpha-positive breast cancer: major implication of the Wnt signaling pathway. PLoS One. 2010;30;5(12):e15647. [3] Schagerholm C, et al. PIK3CA mutations in endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Scientific Reports. 2024;14:12542. [4] Fillbrunn M, et al. PIK3CA mutation status, progression and survival in advanced HR+/HER2- breast cancer: a meta-analysis of published clinical trials. BMC Cancer. 2022;22(1):1002. [5] Jhaveri KL, et al. Overall Survival with Inavolisib in PIK3CA-Mutated Advanced Breast Cancer. 2025;40454641. [6] ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Inavolisib Plus Fulvestrant Compared With Alpelisib Plus Fulvestrant in Participants With HR-Positive, HER2-Negative, PIK3CA Mutated, Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer Post CDK4/6i and Endocrine Combination Therapy (INAVO121) [Internet; cited 2025 June]. Available from: https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05646862. [7] ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Inavolisib in Combination With Phesgo Versus Placebo in Combination With Phesgo in Participants With PIK3CA-Mutated HER2-Positive Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer (INAVO122) [Internet; cited 2025 June]. Available from: https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05894239. [8] ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Inavolisib Plus CDK4/6 Inhibitor and Letrozole vs Placebo + CDK4/6i and Letrozole in Participants With Endocrine-Sensitive PIK3CA-Mutated, Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer (INAVO123) [Internet; cited 2025 June]. Available from: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06790693. [9] Anderson E, et al. A Systematic Review of the Prevalence and Diagnostic Workup of PIK3CA Mutations in HR+/HER2 Metastatic Breast Cancer. Int J Breast Cancer. 2020;2020:3759179. [10] Juric D, et al. A phase I/Ib study of inavolisib (GDC-0077) in combination with fulvestrant in patients (pts) with PIK3CA-mutated hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative (HR+/HER2) metastatic breast cancer. Presented at San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, 2020 December 7-10; San Antonio, USA. Abstract #P5-17-05. [11] Hong R, et al. GDC-0077 is a selective PI3K alpha inhibitor that demonstrates robust efficacy in PIK3CA mutant breast cancer models as a single agent and in combination with standard of care therapies. Cancer Res. 2018;78(4):4-14. [12] ClinicalTrials.gov. A Study Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Inavolisib + Palbociclib + Fulvestrant vs Placebo + Palbociclib + Fulvestrant in Patients With PIK3CA-Mutant, Hormone Receptor-Positive, Her2-Negative, Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer (INAVO120) [Internet; cited 2025 June]. Available from: https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04191499. [13] National Cancer Institute: Surveillance, Epidemiology and Ends Result Program. Cancer Stat Facts: Female Breast Cancer Subtypes [Internet; cited 2025 June]. Available from: https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/breast-subtypes.html. [14] Lim E, et al. The natural history of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Oncology (Williston Park). 2012;26(8):688-94,696. [15] Wu VS, et al. From bench to bedside: What do we know about hormone receptor-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer? J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2015 Sep;153:45-53. [16] Tomas R and Barrios CH. Optimal management of hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer in 2016. Ther Adv Med Oncol. 2015;7(6):304-20. [17] Galipeau N, et al. Understanding key symptoms, side effects, and impacts of HR+/HER- advanced breast cancer: qualitative study findings. J Patient-Rep Outcomes. 2019;3(1):10. Roche Global Media Relations Phone: +41 61 688 8888 / e-mail: media.relations@roche.com Hans Trees, PhD Phone: +41 79 407 72 58 Sileia Urech Phone: +41 79 935 81 48 Nathalie Altermatt Phone: +41 79 771 05 25 Lorena Corfas Phone: +41 79 568 24 95 Simon Goldsborough Phone: +44 797 32 72 915 Karsten Kleine Phone: +41 79 461 86 83 Kirti Pandey Phone: +49 172 6367262 Yvette Petillon Phone: +41 79 961 92 50 Dr Rebekka Schnell Phone: +41 79 205 27 03 Roche Investor Relations Dr Bruno Eschli Phone: +41 61 68-75284 e-mail: bruno.eschli@roche.com Dr Sabine Borngraber Phone: +41 61 68-88027 e-mail: sabine.borngraeber@roche.com Dr Birgit Masjost Phone: +41 61 68-84814 e-mail: birgit.masjost@roche.com Investor Relations North America Loren Kalm Phone: +1 650 225 3217 e-mail: kalm.loren@gene.com Attachment Order intake at 4.1 billion. Rolling Stock book-to-bill ratio back at 1.0x Sales at 4.5 billion, up 2.8% vs. last year, of which 7.2% organic Fiscal year 2025/26 outlook and medium-term ambitions confirmed 23 July 2025 Over the first quarter of 2025/26 (from 1 April to 30 June 2025), Alstom booked 4.1 billion of orders. The Groups sales reached 4.5 billion in the quarter, up 2.8% vs. last year. Foreign exchange represented a 2.7% headwind on sales, owing to the appreciation of the euro against major currencies compared to the same period last year. Scope was a 1.5% headwind thanks to the sale of the North American conventional signalling business last year. Therefore, the Groups organic sales increased by 7.2% vs. last year. The backlog, as of 30 June 2025, settled at 92.3 billion, providing strong visibility on future sales. Key figures Reported figures (in million) 2024/25 Q1 2025/26 Q1 % Change Reported % Change Organic Orders received1 3,645 4,075 +11.8% +13.6% Sales 4,389 4,514 +2.8% +7.2% Geographic and product breakdowns of reported orders and sales are provided in Appendix 1. Alstoms commercial performance is off to a good start. First-quarter orders have surpassed the 4 billion mark, with a strong view on the pipeline for the second quarter, bolstered by momentum in North America. All product lines have contributed to organic sales growth, particularly with projects in Germany beginning to ramp up. We confirm guidance for this fiscal year and Alstoms medium-term ambitions. Stability and visibility underscore the resilience of our business and our teams, said Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Chief Executive Officer of Alstom *** Detailed review During the first quarter of 2025/26 (from 1 April to 30 June 2025), Alstom recorded 4,075 million in orders, compared to 3,645 million over the same period last fiscal year. Over three months, orders for Services, Signalling and Systems reached 42% of the total order intake. On a regional level, Europe accounted for 85% of the Group total order intake. In France, Alstom received an order from SNCF Voyageurs for 96 additional RER NG trainsets for the RER D line, under the framework agreement signed in 2017. Financed by Ile-de-France Mobilites, the order is worth approximately 1.7 billion. The contract brings the total number of RER NG trainsets ordered to 262. In Bulgaria, Alstom, leading the BULEMU consortium, signed a contract with the Ministry of Transport and Communications for the supply of 35 Coradia Stream interregional electric trains and 15 years of maintenance services. The contract is valued at 720 million, with Alstoms share amounting to 600 million. Sales were 4,514 million in Q1 2025/26 (from 1 April to 30 June 2025) versus 4,389 million in Q1 2024/25 (up 2.8% on a reported basis and 7.2% on an organic basis). Rolling Stock sales reached 2,416 million, representing an increase of 3% on a reported basis and 5% on an organic basis, driven by the ramp-up of projects in Germany, alongside continued strong execution in France, the US, and Italy. Services reported 1,070 million of sales, stable on a reported basis and up 2% on an organic basis, supported by a ramp-up of projects in Germany, Italy and South Africa and continuous execution in North America. Signalling sales stood at 603 million, down 5% on a reported basis, impacted by the sale of the North American conventional signalling business last year. Sales were up 9% on an organic basis, marked by execution progress across all regions, particularly in France, Italy, and Germany. For Systems, Alstom reported 425 million sales, up 25% on a reported basis and 36% on an organic basis, benefiting from a strong ramp-up of turnkey projects in Brazil and the Philippines, as well as sustained activity in Mexico and France. The book-to-bill ratio is 0.9x over the quarter. *** Key project deliveries During the first quarter of 2025/26, Alstoms teams delivered key milestones across all regions. In France, the first metro train for Grand Paris Express Line 18 was delivered, and Omneo trains entered service on the MarseilleToulonNice line. In the UK, a new Aventra fleet belonging to the Adessia product family began operations for London Northwestern Railway, and, in Sweden, Alstom executed the first commercial deployment of ERTMS. In India, metro services commenced in Kanpur and Indore, enhancing urban mobility. In the U.S., Alstom delivered the first Innovia automated people mover to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. *** Assumptions for FY 2025/26 The outlook for FY 2025/26 is based on following main assumptions: Supportive market demand Number of cars produced stable vs FY 2024/25 Mitigating US tariffs impact Outlook for FY 2025/26 Group and Rolling Stock book-to-bill ratio above 1.0x Sales organic growth between 3% to 5% aEBIT margin around 7% Free Cash Flow generation to be within the 200 to 400 million range Seasonality driving consumption FCF of up to (1)bn in H1 2025/26 Over the three years from FY 2024/25 to FY 2026/27, the Group expects to deliver at least 1.5 billion in free cash-flow, despite Contract Working Capital being a headwind over that period. *** Medium-term ambitions are confirmed as per the May 14, 2025, full year announcement. *** Financial calendar 13 November 2025 2025/26 Half-Year Results *** Conference Call Alstom is pleased to invite the analysts to a conference call presenting its first quarter orders and sales for the fiscal year 2025/26 on Wednesday 23 July at 8:30 am (Paris time), hosted by Bernard Delpit, EVP and CFO. A live audiocast will also be available on Alstoms website: Alstoms first quarter orders and sales for FY 2025/26. To participate in the Q&A session (audio only), please use the dial-in numbers below: France: +33 (0) 1 7037 7166 UK: +44 (0) 33 0551 0200 USA: +1 786 697 3501 Canada: 1 866 378 3566 (toll free) Quote ALSTOM to the operator to be transferred to the appropriate conference. *** ALSTOM, Adessia, Aventra, Coradia Stream, Innovia and Omneo are protected trademarks of the Alstom Group About Alstom Alstom commits to contribute to a low carbon future by developing and promoting innovative and sustainable transportation solutions that people enjoy riding. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, Alstom offers its diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. With its presence in 63 countries and a talent base of over 86,000 people from 184 nationalities, the company focuses its design, innovation, and project management skills to where mobility solutions are needed most. Listed in France, Alstom generated sales of 18.5 billion for the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2025. For more information, please visit www.alstom.com. Contacts Press: Philippe MOLITOR - Tel.: +33 (0)7 76 00 97 79 philippe.molitor@alstomgroup.com Thomas ANTOINE - Tel.: +33 (0) 6 11 47 28 60 thomas.antoine@alstomgroup.com Investor relations: Cyril GUERIN - Tel.: +33 (0)6 07 89 36 16 cyril.guerin@alstomgroup.com Guillaume GAUVILLE - Tel: +44 (0)7 588 022 744 guillaume.gauville@alstomgroup.com Estelle MATURELL ANDINO - Tel: +33 (0)6 71 37 47 56 estelle.maturell@alstomgroup.com Jalal DAHMANE - Tel: +33 (0)6 98 19 96 62 jalal.dahmane@alstomgroup.com This press release contains forward-looking statements which are based on current plans and forecasts of Alstoms management. Such forward-looking statements are relevant to the current scope of activity and are by their nature subject to a number of important risks and uncertainty factors (such as those described in the documents filed by Alstom with the French AMF) that could cause reported results to differ from the plans, objectives and expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. These such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and Alstom undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release does not constitute or form part of a prospectus or any offer or invitation for the sale or issue of, or any offer or inducement to purchase or subscribe for, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for any shares or other securities in the Company in France, the United Kingdom, the United States or any other jurisdiction. Any offer of the Companys securities may only be made in France pursuant to a prospectus having received the approval from the AMF or, outside France, pursuant to an offering document prepared for such purpose. The information does not constitute any form of commitment on the part of the Company or any other person. Neither the information nor any other written or oral information made available to any recipient, or its advisers will form the basis of any contract or commitment whatsoever. In particular, in furnishing the information, the Company, the Joint Global Coordinators, their affiliates, shareholders, and their respective directors, officers, advisers, employees or representatives undertake no obligation to provide the recipient with access to any additional information. APPENDIX 1A GEOGRAPHIC BREAKDOWN Reported figures 2024/25 % 2025/26 % (in million) 3 months Contrib. 3 months Contrib. Europe 2,570 70% 3,472 86% Americas 318 9% 258 6% Asia / Pacific 237 7% 330 8% Middle East / Africa 520 14% 15 0% Orders by destination 3,645 100% 4,075 100% Reported figures 2024/25 % 2025/26 % (in million) 3 months Contrib. 3 months Contrib. Europe 2,494 57% 2,672 60% Americas 894 20% 833 18% Asia / Pacific 624 14% 652 14% Middle East / Africa 377 9% 357 8% Sales by destination 4,389 100% 4,514 100% APPENDIX 1B PRODUCT BREAKDOWN Reported figures 2024/25 % 2025/26 % (in million) 3 months Contrib. 3 months Contrib. Rolling stock 1,410 39% 2,365 59% Services 1,199 33% 751 18% Systems 119 3% 128 3% Signalling 917 25% 831 20% Orders by product line 3,645 100% 4,075 100% Reported figures 2024/25 % 2025/26 % (in million) 3 months Contrib. 3 months Contrib. Rolling stock 2,338 53% 2,416 54% Services 1,073 24% 1,070 24% Systems 341 8% 425 9% Signalling 637 15% 603 13% Sales by product line 4,389 100% 4,514 100% APPENDIX 2 - NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INDICATORS DEFINITIONS This section presents financial indicators used by the Group that are not defined by IFRS or other generally accepted accounting principles. 1.1. Orders received A new order is recognised as an order received only when the contract creates enforceable obligations between the Group and its customer. When this condition is met, the order is recognised at the contract value. If the contract is denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the reporting unit, the Group requires the immediate elimination of currency exposure using forward currency sales. Orders are then measured using the spot rate at inception of hedging instruments. Book-to-Bill The book-to-bill ratio is the ratio of orders received to the amount of sales traded for a specific period. Gross margin % in backlog Gross Margin % in backlog is a KPI that presents the expected performance level of firm contracts in backlog. It represents the difference between the sales not yet recognized and the cost of sales not yet incurred from the contracts in backlog. This % is an average of the portfolio of contracts in backlog and is meaningful to project mid- and long-term profitability. Adjusted Gross Margin before PPA Adjusted Gross Margin before PPA is a KPI that presents the level of recurring operational performance. It represents the sales minus the cost of sales, adjusted to exclude the impact of amortisation of assets exclusively valued when determining the PPA in the context of business combination as well as significant, non-recurring one off items that are not expected to occur again in subsequent years. EBIT before PPA Following the Bombardier Transportation acquisition and with effect from the fiscal year 2021/22 condensed consolidated financial statements, Alstom decided to introduce the EBIT before PPA KPI aimed at restating its Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) to exclude the impact of amortisation of assets exclusively valued when determining the PPA in the context of business combination. This KPI is also aligned with market practice. Adjusted EBIT Adjusted EBIT (aEBIT) is a KPI that presents the level of recurring operational performance. This KPI is also aligned with market practice and comparable to the Groups direct competitors. Since September 2019, Alstom has opted for the inclusion of the share in net income of the equity-accounted investments into the aEBIT even though this component is part of the operating activities of the Group (because there are significant operational flows and/or common project execution associated with these entities). This mainly includes Chinese joint ventures, namely CASCO joint venture for Alstom as well as, following the integration of Bombardier Transportation, Alstom Sifang (Qingdao) Transportation Ltd., Jiangsu Alstom NUG Propulsion System Co. Ltd. aEBIT corresponds to Earning Before Interests and Tax adjusted for the following elements: net restructuring expenses (including rationalisation costs) tangibles and intangibles impairment capital gains or loss/revaluation on investments disposals or controls changes of an entity any other non-recurring items, such as some costs incurred to realise business combinations and amortisation of an asset exclusively valued in the context of business combination, as well as litigation costs that have arisen outside the ordinary course of business and including the share in net income of the operational equity-accounted investments. A non-recurring item is a significant, one-off exceptional item that is not expected to occur again in subsequent years. Adjusted EBIT margin corresponds to Adjusted EBIT expressed as a percentage of sales. EBITDA + JV dividends EBITDA before PPA plus dividends from joint ventures is the EBIT before PPA, before depreciation and amortisation, with the addition of the dividends received from joint ventures. Adjusted net profit The Adjusted Net Profit KPI restates Alstoms net profit from continued operations (Group share) to exclude the impact of amortisation of assets exclusively valued when determining the PPA in the context of business combination, net of the corresponding tax effect. This indicator is also aligned with market practice. Free cash flow Free Cash Flow is dened as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures including capitalised development costs, net of proceeds from disposals of tangible and intangible assets. Free Cash Flow does not include any proceeds from disposals of activity. The most directly comparable financial measure to Free Cash Flow calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS is net cash provided by operating activities. Free Cash Flow conversion rate Free Cash Flow Conversion ratio is computed as Free Cash Flow of the period divided by the adjusted net profit of the same period. Alstom uses the Free Cash Flow conversion ratio to measure its ability to convert adjusted net profit into Free Cash Flow in a defined period. Funds from Operations Funds from Operations FFO in the EBIT before PPA to Free Cash Flow statement refers to the Free Cash Flow generated by Operations, before Working Capital variations. Contract and Trade Working Capital Contract Working Capital is the sum of: Contract Assets & Liabilities, which includes the Customer Down-Payments Current provisions, which includes Risks on contracts and Warranties Trade Working Capital is the Working Capital that is not strictly contractual, hence not included in Project Working Capital. It includes: Inventories Trade Receivables Trade Payables Other elements of Working Capital defined as the sum of Other Assets/Liabilities and Non-Current provisions Net cash/(debt) The net cash/(debt) is defined as cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and other current financial asset, less borrowings. Pay-out ratio The pay-out ratio is calculated by dividing the amount of the overall dividend with the Adjusted Net profit from continuing operations attributable to equity holders of the parent, Group share as presented in the management report in the consolidated financial statements. Organic basis This press release includes performance indicators presented on a reported basis and on an organic basis. Figures given on an organic basis eliminate the impact of changes in scope of consolidation and changes resulting from the translation of the accounts into Euro following the variation of foreign currencies against the Euro. The Group uses figures prepared on an organic basis both for internal analysis and for external communication, as it believes they provide means to analyse and explain variations from one period to another. However, these figures are not measurements of performance under IFRS. Q1 2024/25 Q1 2025/26 (in million) Reported figures Exchange rate and scope impact Comparable Figures Reported figures % Var Rep. % Var Org. Orders 3,645 58 3,587 4,075 11.8% 13.6% Sales 4,389 178 4,211 4,514 2.8% 7.2% 1 Non - GAAP. See definition in the appendix. Attachment Societe Generale to act as market maker for 21Shares Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs on key German and Eastern Europe fund platforms, expanding institutional access to crypto Zurich, 23 July 2025 21Shares AG, one of the worlds leading issuers of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), is pleased to announce it has entered into an ETP market making fund platform agreement with Societe Generale, a leading institutional player in exchange traded products, to enhance liquidity across 21Shares ETPs on fund platforms for investors in Germany and Eastern Europe. As part of the agreement, Societe Generale will support the trading of 21Shares Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs (ABTC, CBTC, AETH, CETH) by providing over-the-counter liquidity on key fund platforms in Germany and Eastern Europe. These platforms, typically operated by major financial institutions, serve as critical infrastructure for institutional trading. By joining these platforms, where Societe Generale acts as a market maker, 21Shares flagship crypto products will now be accessible to a wider base of professional investors, expanding institutional reach across Germany and Eastern Europe. We are thrilled to partner with Societe Generale, a major player in the European ETF space, as we continue to expand access to our ETPs, said Alistair Byas-Perry, Global Head of Capital Markets & EMEA Investment at 21Shares. By bringing liquidity to our Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs, Societe Generale is helping us advance our mission to deliver the most efficient and trusted crypto investment solutions to the market. "Societe Generale is excited to partner with 21Shares, a leading provider of cryptocurrency ETPs, to support the trading of their Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs on fund platforms. This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing innovative liquidity solutions and enhancing access to a wide range of ETFs and ETPs for our clients," said Martina Schroettle, Head of ETF Sales Trading UK at Societe Generale. The partnership is expected to enhance liquidity, execution quality, and ease of access for German and Eastern European institutional investors navigating the digital asset market. For more information on 21Shares full product suite, visit www.21shares.com . Notes to editors About 21Shares 21Shares is one of the worlds leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. 21Shares listed the worlds first physically-backed crypto ETP in 2018, building a seven-year track record of creating crypto exchange-traded funds that are listed on some of the biggest, most liquid securities exchanges globally. Backed by a specialised research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21Shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions. 21Shares is a member of 21.co, a global leader in decentralized finance. For more information, please visit www.21Shares.com . Media Contact Matteo Valli matteo.valli@21shares.com DISCLAIMER This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice. This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful. This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States. Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the Order); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as relevant persons); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuers Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuers website under www.21Shares.com. The approval of the Issuers Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuers Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand. This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the FinSA) and not a prospectus. The 2024 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with BX Swiss AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2024 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG's website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectus or https://21shares.com/ir/kids). ### San Francisco, USA, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) Market is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.90%, reaching a market value of approximately USD 24,097.31 million by 2032. TPUs, or Tensor Processing Units, are highly specialized application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) originally developed by Google to address the increasing demands of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) workloads. Unlike traditional CPUs and GPUs, Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) are engineered to accelerate tensor operationsthe core of neural network training and inferenceby efficiently executing large-scale matrix multiplications with minimal power usage. This specialized architecture makes TPUs ideal for deep learning across industries such as healthcare (advanced imaging diagnostics), finance (algorithmic trading and fraud detection), automotive, and telecommunications. On the government front, federal support is strong: the FY 2025 U.S. budget proposes hundreds of millions for foundational AI R&D via the NSF, AI talent initiatives, and the National AI Research Resource pilot. Additionally, in May 2024, Senate leaders called for at least USD 32 billion per year in nondefense AI funding to maintain U.S. leadership. These commitments, combined with private-sector uptake, are accelerating TPU adoption nationwide. Grab a Complimentary Sample Report PDF @ https://analystviewmarketinsights.com/request_sample/AV3789 Market Key Players- Detailed Competitive Insights Amazon Web Services, Inc. Google Inc. Graphcore IBM Corporation Intel Corporation Micron Technology Microsoft Corporation NVIDIA Corporation Qualcomm Technologies Xilinx Inc. Others Why TPUs Are Gaining Momentum Unlike general-purpose CPUs and GPUs, TPUs are engineered specifically to handle large-scale matrix operations required in artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Their architecture is tailored to perform these operations with superior efficiency and lower energy consumption, making them a preferred choice for AI model training and inference. This specialized capability enables significantly faster processing of data, accelerating development cycles in AI and reducing infrastructure costs. With the AI industry poised to contribute over $14 trillion to the global economy by 2035, the demand for high-performance, scalable, and energy-efficient computing solutions like TPUs is accelerating. These processors are already widely adopted in data centers, cloud AI platforms, and AI research environments, acting as the backbone for high-speed machine learning tasks. Widespread Adoption Across Key Sectors The impact of TPUs extends across multiple industries: Healthcare: Enhancing diagnostics, image recognition, and real-time patient data analysis. Enhancing diagnostics, image recognition, and real-time patient data analysis. Finance: Powering fraud detection systems, algorithmic trading platforms, and real-time risk analytics. Powering fraud detection systems, algorithmic trading platforms, and real-time risk analytics. Automotive: Enabling autonomous driving systems through high-speed data processing. Enabling autonomous driving systems through high-speed data processing. Manufacturing & Logistics: Driving real-time automation and predictive analytics in smart factories. Cloud platforms like Google Cloud TPU, AWS Inferentia, and Microsoft Azure AI Infrastructure are offering TPUs as-a-service, allowing organizations to scale their AI capabilities without hefty hardware investments. Driving the Future of Edge Computing and IoT The role of TPUs is also expanding into edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) deployments. These chips enable AI models to operate locally on edge devices, reducing data transmission delays and enhancing real-time decision-making. In smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and connected devices, TPUs are crucial for low-latency, high-efficiency AI operations at the network edge. As smart infrastructure and IoT ecosystems expand, TPUs will become even more integral in delivering real-time intelligence, particularly in mission-critical environments such as traffic management, remote diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. Competitive Strategies and Market Trends To remain competitive, key players in the TPU market are investing in: Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with cloud providers and AI software developers to integrate TPUs seamlessly into broader ecosystems. Collaborating with cloud providers and AI software developers to integrate TPUs seamlessly into broader ecosystems. Product Innovation: Designing next-gen TPUs with enhanced performance for tasks like generative AI, large language models, and advanced analytics. Designing next-gen TPUs with enhanced performance for tasks like generative AI, large language models, and advanced analytics. Vertical Integration: Major tech firms such as Google, Amazon, and Apple are increasingly bringing TPU development in-house to optimize cost, performance, and control over their AI stacks. A notable trend is the rise of custom TPU designs, where companies develop hardware specifically tailored to niche AI applications. Whether it's accelerating natural language processing or optimizing vision models for robotics, these customized chips deliver precise performance gains. Market Outlook and Future Prospects With AI adoption accelerating across multiple industries, the demand for Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) is expected to grow exponentially. According to projections from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the global AI market could reach USD 190.6 billion by 2025, positioning TPUs as a foundational technology in this expansion. Designed for high-speed, energy-efficient processing of complex tensor operations, TPUs enable faster training and deployment of advanced AI models. As businesses increasingly adopt data-driven strategies, TPUs are powering applications across healthcare, finance, automotive, and telecommunications, improving efficiency, decision-making, and scalability. This unique capability ensures TPUs will remain integral to the next wave of AI innovation. TABLE OF CONTENT: 1. Tensor Processing Unit Market Overview 1.1. Study Scope 1.2. Market Estimation Years 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Market Snippet 2.1.1. Tensor Processing Unit Market Snippet by Deployment 2.1.2. Tensor Processing Unit Market Snippet by Application 2.1.3. Tensor Processing Unit Market Snippet by End User 2.1.4. Tensor Processing Unit Market Snippet by Country 2.1.5. Tensor Processing Unit Market Snippet by Region 2.2. Competitive Insights 3. Tensor Processing Unit Key Market Trends 3.1. Tensor Processing Unit Market Drivers 3.1.1. Impact Analysis of Market Drivers 3.2. Tensor Processing Unit Market Restraints 3.2.1. Impact Analysis of Market Restraints 3.3. Tensor Processing Unit Market Opportunities 3.4. Tensor Processing Unit Market Future Trends 4. Tensor Processing Unit Industry Study 4.1. PEST Analysis 4.2. Porters Five Forces Analysis 4.3. Growth Prospect Mapping 4.4. Regulatory Framework Analysis 5. Tensor Processing Unit Market: Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions 5.1. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic 5.2. Impact of Russia-Ukraine War 5.3. Impact of Middle East Conflicts 6. Tensor Processing Unit Market Landscape 6.1. Tensor Processing Unit Market Share Analysis, 2024 6.2. Breakdown Data, by Key Manufacturer 6.2.1. Established Players Analysis 6.2.2. Emerging Players Analysis Unlock insights into territorial performance, business segmentation, and player analysis.@ https://www.analystviewmarketinsights.com/reports/report-highlight-tensor-processing-unit-market Key Report Benefits: In-depth analysis of top market players and strategic initiatives Comprehensive regional outlook and growth hotspots Insights into emerging TPU applications in cloud, edge, and industry-specific solutions Future projections and competitive landscape assessments Browse more Reports from AnalystView Market Insights: Automotive Hinges Market Wire-to-Board Connector Market Medical Connectors Market In-Wheel Motor Market Dublin, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Epilepsy Drugs Market Growth Analysis - Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The epilepsy drugs market, valued at USD 8.19 billion in 2024, is experiencing a robust growth trajectory. Driven by the rising prevalence of epilepsy and neurological disorders across major markets, the sector is poised to expand at a CAGR of 4.40% from 2025 to 2034, with projections indicating a market size of USD 12.60 billion by 2034. Epilepsy Drugs Market Overview Epilepsy, a neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures, continues to affect millions around the globe. The pressing demand for innovative antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) has prompted pharmaceutical companies to intensify research and development efforts. The market benefits from advancements in personalized medicine and diagnostic technologies, coupled with growing awareness initiatives about available treatments. As healthcare infrastructure in developing regions improves, the epilepsy drugs market is geared for substantial growth. Epilepsy Drugs Market Growth Factors Regulatory Approvals as Key Milestones In January 2024, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare approved Fycompa (perampanel), an injectable AED developed by Eisai Co., Ltd, for situations where oral administration is temporarily infeasible. As the only AMPA receptor antagonist-based AED, Fycompa now offers an alternative for uninterrupted treatment during specific situations. This development aligns with Eisai's focus on enhancing life quality for epilepsy patients, driving market expansion by addressing diverse patient needs globally. Surge in Drug Development Initiatives October 2023 marked a pivotal advancement with the investigational medication XEN1101, which significantly reduced seizure frequency, as revealed by a phase 2b clinical trial at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Offering a novel potassium-channel opener mechanism, XEN1101 provides a breakthrough in epilepsy treatment. These promising results are expected to drive market growth as this innovative treatment receives increasing acceptance from patients and healthcare providers. Pharmaceutical companies benefit from expanded market opportunities, fostering global advancements in epilepsy care. Epilepsy Drugs Market Trends Rising Prevalence The increasing incidence of neurological disorders, including epilepsy, fuels the global epilepsy drug market growth. Advancements in Drug Development Significant investments in R&D by pharmaceutical companies aim to introduce enhanced AEDs, offering better efficacy and fewer side effects, thereby bolstering market growth. Demand for Generic Drugs The introduction of generic drugs following patent expirations of several prominent AEDs has heightened market competition and cost-effectiveness. Rising Awareness Efforts to reduce the stigma associated with epilepsy are encouraging more individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment, bolstering market growth. Epilepsy Drugs Market Segmentation Segmentation by seizure type includes focal, generalized, non-epileptic, and others, with focal seizures leading the market. Drug generations are divided into first, second, and third, with first-generation drugs dominating due to established efficacy and cost-effectiveness. The oral route of administration remains the most preferred due to convenience and patient acceptance, facilitating efficient drug delivery and seizure management. Regional Insights The United States leads the market due to factors like advanced healthcare infrastructure and significant investments in innovative drug therapies. Japan and India are witnessing steady growth due to rising prevalence, improving infrastructure, and increasing awareness. Leading Players Key players in the market include GlaxoSmithKline Plc, Eisai Co., Ltd, Novartis AG, among others. These companies actively contribute to the market through strategic initiatives, patent analysis, and clinical trials. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 400 Forecast Period 2025 - 2034 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $8.19 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2034 $12.6 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.4% Regions Covered Global For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3jgs3c About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Dublin, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Oral Care Market by Product (Toothbrush (Manual, Electric, Battery), Toothpaste (Paste, Gel), Mouthwash, Dental Accessory), Application (Dental Clinic), Distribution Channel (Consumer Store, Pharmacy, eCommerce), & Region - Global Forecast to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The oral care market is projected to reach USD 53.29 billion by 2030 from USD 37.21 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2025 to 2030. The oral care market is influenced by a variety of factors, primarily encompassing both health-related issues and consumer preferences. A significant catalyst for market growth is the rising incidence of dental pathologies, including dental caries, periodontal diseases, and tooth hypersensitivity, often stemming from inadequate oral hygiene practices. This surge in dental disorders subsequently drives demand for oral care products. Additionally, the proliferation of dental professionals globally enhances access to dental care services and fosters greater awareness of oral hygiene practices, motivating consumers to utilize various oral care products. Technological innovations in the sector, such as electric toothbrushes and AI-powered devices that analyze brushing patterns and provide real-time feedback, are further propelling market expansion by offering more efficient alternatives to traditional oral care methods. The increasing consumer inclination towards aesthetic enhancements, such as teeth whitening solutions, is also contributing to the growth of the global oral care industry, reflecting a dual focus on health and aesthetics. By product type, the toothpaste segment commanded the largest market share in 2024 In the oral care market, the toothpaste segment commands the largest market share due to its essential role in daily oral hygiene. This product type is globally recognized for its diverse range of benefits, encompassing aesthetic enhancement through whitening formulations, cavity prevention, plaque management, gum disease mitigation, breath freshening, and alleviation of dental sensitivity. The combination of affordability and widespread availability, coupled with consumer trust in established brands, reinforces toothpaste's dominant market position. Additionally, endorsements from dental professionals advocating the use of toothpaste at least twice daily further enhance its market stability and consumer adherence to oral care routines. By application, the homecare segment held the largest share in the global oral care market in 2024 In the oral care market, the homecare segment commands the largest share. This category encompasses the most accessible, cost-effective, and routinely utilized products designed for the maintenance of oral hygiene. These items serve as a primary defense against oral diseases that arise from inadequate oral care practices. Products within the homecare segment include essential tools such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash, all of which are pivotal in preventing caries and the accumulation of plaque, conditions that can exacerbate oral health issues. Furthermore, the increasing recommendations from dental professionals have significantly bolstered the demand for these homecare products, underscoring their importance in the overall oral health regimen. By distribution channel, the consumer stores segment held the largest oral care market share in 2024 Consumer retail outlets dominate the oral care market due to the confluence of established brand familiarity and specialized product knowledge. These stores offer significant accessibility, thereby enhancing convenience for consumers who require timely access to oral care products. With a diverse range of brands and product categories available, these establishments cater to varying consumer needs and budgetary constraints. The ability for consumers to physically inspect products prior to purchase engenders a sense of immediate gratification. Moreover, consumer stores ensure prompt product availability, effectively addressing last-minute purchasing needs. The cultivation of customer loyalty and trust further solidifies consumer preference for these retail environments. By region, the Asia Pacific accounted for the largest regional market share in 2024 The dominant position of the Asia Pacific region in the oral care market can be attributed to several interrelated factors. The region has experienced a significant population increase, which consequently drives up demand for oral care products. Coupled with rising disposable income levels, consumers are now more willing to invest in oral health solutions. Moreover, heightened awareness regarding oral hygiene, spurred by government initiatives and recommendations from dental professionals, has resulted in increased consumption of various oral care items. Additionally, advancements in product formulations, particularly in the realm of tooth whitening pastes, cater to consumer preferences, especially those focused on aesthetic outcomes. These elements collectively reinforce the robust growth trajectory of the oral care market in Asia Pacific. Research Coverage The report examines the oral care market, aiming to estimate its size and future growth potential across various segments, including product type, application, distribution channel, and region. Additionally, the report features a competitive analysis of key players in the market, providing details on their company profiles, service offerings, recent developments, and essential market strategies. Key players in the oral care market are Colgate-Palmolive (US), Procter & Gamble (US), Haleon (GSK) (UK), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Kenvue (Johnson & Johnson) (US), Unilever (UK), 3M (US), Lion Corporation (Japan), Church & Dwight (US), Sunstar Suissee SA (Switzerland), Perrigo (Dublin), Orkla (Norway), Dabur (India), Katjes International (Germany), LG Household and healthcare (South Korea), Kao Corporation (Japan), Danaher Corporation (US), Himalaya Wellness Company (India), Young Innovations Inc (US), Ultradent Products (US), Hain Celestial Group (US), Supersmile (US), Closys (US), and Hawley & Hazel (BVI) Co. Ltd. (Hong Kong). Reasons to Buy the Report The report will assist both market leaders and new entrants by providing information on revenue estimates for the overall oral care market and its subsegments. It will help stakeholders understand the competitive landscape, allowing them to better position their businesses and develop effective go-to-market strategies. Additionally, the report offers insights into the current market trends and outlines key drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities. This report provides insights into the following pointers: Analysis of key drivers (rising incidence of dental diseases, increasing number of practicing dentists, technological advancements in oral care products), restraints (increasing number of product recalls), opportunities (growing trend of online purchasing and e-commerce and rising awareness about oral hygiene), challenges (adverse effects of teeth whitening products on oral health) Market Penetration: This includes extensive information on products offered by the major players in the global oral care market. The report includes various segments in product type, application, distribution channel, and region. Product Enhancement/Innovation: Comprehensive details about new product launches and anticipated trends in the global oral care market. Market Development: Thorough knowledge and analysis of the profitable rising markets by offering, product type, application, distribution channel, and region. Market Diversification: Comprehensive information about newly launched products, expanding markets, current advancements, and investments in the global oral care market. Competitive Assessment: Thorough evaluation of the market shares, growth plans, offerings of products, and capacities of the major competitors in the global oral care market. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 319 Forecast Period 2025-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $37.21 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $53.29 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.4% Regions Covered Global Market Dynamics Drivers Rising Incidence of Dental Diseases Rise in Number of Practicing Dentists on Global Scale Technological Advancements in Oral Care Products Restraints Product Recalls Opportunities Rising Trend of Online Purchasing and E-Commerce Growing Awareness About Oral Hygiene Challenges Adverse Effects of Teeth Whitening Products Industry Trends Artificial Intelligence and IoT in Oral Care Market Reimbursement Scenario Companies Profiled Colgate-Palmolive Company Procter & Gamble Haleon Group of Companies Koninklijke Philips N.V. Kenvue Unilever Solventum Lion Corporation Church & Dwight Co, Inc. Sunstar Suisse S.A. Perrigo Company plc Dabur International Orkla Dentaid Ltd. Katjes International LG Household & Health Care, Ltd. KAO Corporation Himalaya Wellness Company Young Innovations, Inc. Ultradent Products Inc. GC Corp. Hain Celestial Group (Jason Natural Products, Inc.) Supersmile Closys Hawley & Hazel (BVI) Co. Ltd. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/v3avlw About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Austin, TX, USA, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Custom Market Insights has published a new research report titled Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Size, Trends and Insights By Product Type (Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava filters, Permanent Inferior Vena Cava Filters), By Material (Non-Ferromagnetic Material, Ferromagnetic Materials), By Application (Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism, Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism), By End Users (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Emergency Care Centers), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20252034 in its research database. According to the latest research study, the demand of global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market size & share was valued at approximately USD 895.82 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 974.16 Million in 2025 and is expected to reach a value of around USD 2,094.10 Million by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 8.88% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034. Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-free-sample/?reportid=71354 Overview According to industry experts at CMI, the implementation of new strategies and technologies by manufacturers presents lucrative opportunities for players in the Inferior Vena Cava Filter Market during the forecast period. Furthermore, the growing significance of organized retailing is expected to drive the future growth of the market. Key Trends & Drivers Shift Toward Retrievable Filters: Given concerns about chronic complications engendered by permanent implants, we have a growing trend for the use of retrievable or temporary IVC filters. Physicians and patients prefer a device that can be pulled out as soon as the risk of an embolism has diminished, or if an undue adverse situation arises, including migration of filters, fracture, or perforation. Advances in retrieval techniques and follow-up protocols have resulted in enhanced success rates and thus a rising trend of clinical indications for retrieval. This appears to be the new trend supported by evolving clinical guidelines and regulatory agencies that promote retrieval, onward to manufacturers who innovate for a safer, easy-to-dispose filter that is application-wise beneficial for both temporary protection and long-term anesthetic. Technological Advancements in Filter Design: The new technologies offer one of the most important trends in the IVC filter market. The manufacturers are working on the next-generation filters with better biocompatibility along with the anti-migration properties and enhanced structural integrity. The better placement and retrievability are ensured via shape memory alloys such as nitinol, self-centring mechanisms, and non-ferromagnetic materials. Newer designs intend to lower the risk of thrombosis and trauma to the vena cava. These filters are getting safer and more effective, thereby building a lot of confidence amongst physicians to encourage their acceptance by different patient populations, including trauma, surgical, and oncology patients with varying thromboembolic risk. Rising Use of IVC Filters in Outpatient and Ambulatory Settings: The shift towards the outpatient care has resulted in the increased usage of the IVC filters in the ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) along with the outpatient departments (OPD). The minimally invasive filter placement procedures allow same-day discharge and are suitable for select non-emergency cases such as for scheduled surgery or cancer treatment. This explains the virtue of cost-efficiency, patient turnover, and hospital stays. Now that there is an international focus not only on the reduction of procedural costs but also on maintaining quality of care throughout, IVC filter procedures have become one of the few surgical interventions amenable to outpatient provision owing to which their potential for growth in usage and in the market in general is greater in developed countries with advanced ambulatory care infrastructure. Request a Customized Copy of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-customization/?reportid=71354 Increasing Awareness of Pulmonary Embolism and VTE Risks: The rising concerns among the healthcare workers along with the general public pertaining to venous thromboembolism (VTE) and pulmonary embolism (PE) has been augmenting the chances of early diagnosis and timely intervention. Educational activities, clinical training, and enhanced diagnostic imaging aid quick detection of patients at risk, especially in trauma, orthopedic, and oncology departments. This knowledge of the morbidity and mortality effects of PE has inclined more clinicians to search for IVC filters in justified cases. Being proactive, this consequently enlarges the patient base for these devices and prompts hospitals and clinics to stock them for emergency or elective filter placements. Expansion in Emerging Markets: Increasing acceptance of IVC filters is witnessed in emerging markets all through Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of the Middle East and Africa, given the improvements in healthcare access, infrastructure, and awareness. Growing investment in public and private hospitals, medical tourism, and a burgeoning middle class are hence propelling the demand for better vascular interventions. Also, increasing incidences of lifestyle diseases and surgical operations in these regions predispose the development of anticoagulant-based treatment methods. International and regional players aim to capture these markets via low-cost, easy-to-install filter variants and through partnerships for localizing manufacturing and distribution. Integration of Digital Tracking and Follow-Up Systems: To cater the issue of the unretrieved temporary vascular filters, the integration of a digital tracking system and EHR alerts is increasingly being implemented for follow-up management. These systems remind the clinicians when filters have been placed, thereby allowing them to monitor when it needs to be retrieved or followed up and ensuring that the patient complies with it. The new approach improves patient outcomes, and fewer long-term complications set with the regulatory focus on retrieval monitoring. Increasingly, hospitals and device companies are adopting software tools and data-driven solutions to dish out improved procedural follow-up. This trend helps to enhance the safety and accountability of retrievable IVC filter use and encourage its responsible usage on a wider scale. Report Scope Feature of the Report Details Market Size in 2025 USD 974.16 Million Projected Market Size in 2034 USD 2,094.10 Million Market Size in 2024 USD 895.82 Million CAGR Growth Rate 8.88% CAGR Base Year 2024 Forecast Period 2025-2034 Key Segment By Product Type, Material, Application, End Users and Region Report Coverage Revenue Estimation and Forecast, Company Profile, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Recent Trends Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America Buying Options Request tailored purchasing options to fulfil your requirements for research. (A free sample of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.) Our Free Sample Report Consists of the following: Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2024 updated report. The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package. About 220+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research) Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on the Request. Updated Regional Analysis with a Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2025 Includes Tables and figures have been updated. The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis Custom Market Insights (CMI) research methodology (Please note that the sample of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.) Request a Customized Copy of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ SWOT Analysis Strengths: IVC filters are highly effective in preventing acute pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients who have contraindications to anticoagulation (blood thinners) or in whom anticoagulation has failed. The increasing global prevalence of conditions like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and PE, driven by factors such as an aging population, rising rates of obesity, cancer, major surgeries, and prolonged immobility, directly fuels the demand for IVC filters as a preventive measure. Weakness: A significant weakness is the ongoing debate and concern from medical regulatory bodies (like the FDA) and studies regarding the long-term efficacy and potential complications of IVC filters, especially if left implanted for extended periods. Despite the shift to retrievable filters, actual retrieval rates remain inexplicably and unacceptably low in many real-world scenarios. There is evidence of overuse and inappropriate placement of IVC filters in patients who could be adequately managed with anticoagulation, potentially exposing them to unnecessary risks without clear benefit. Opportunities: Continued public and professional awareness campaigns about VTE risks and preventive strategies will drive appropriate demand for IVC filters. Integration of AI-assisted imaging tools for more accurate placement and real-time monitoring of filter position and function can improve patient outcomes and increase adoption rates. Leveraging telemedicine and remote monitoring technologies for post-implantation follow-up can improve retrieval rates and reduce complications by ensuring timely intervention. Threats: Continued or increased regulatory warnings and tightening of guidelines based on new clinical evidence could further restrict the indications for IVC filter use, leading to a decline in implantation rates. As new and safer anticoagulants become available and physicians become more comfortable managing patients on these medications, the need for IVC filters may decrease, particularly in prophylactic settings. The Extensive media coverage of filter complications and lawsuits can lead to negative public perception, discouraging patients and physicians from considering IVC filters. Request a Customized Copy of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Key questions answered in this report: What is the size of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market and what is its expected growth rate? What are the primary driving factors that push the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market forward? What are the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Industry's top companies? What are the different categories that the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market caters to? What will be the fastest-growing segment or region? In the value chain, what role do essential players play? What is the procedure for getting a free copy of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market sample report and company profiles? Key Offerings: Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20252034 Market Dynamics Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Leading Trends Market Segmentation A detailed analysis by Types of Services, by End-User Services, and by regions Competitive Landscape Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors Buy this Premium Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Research Report | Fast Delivery Available - [220+ Pages] @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Regional Analysis The Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market is segmented into various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Here is a brief overview of each region: North America: North America holds a leading position in the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness of thromboembolic disorders, and widespread availability of interventional procedures. The region benefits from strong clinical guidelines, a high volume of surgeries, and a significant aging populationall contributing to increased demand for IVC filters. The United States represents the largest national market for Inferior Vena Cava IVC filters, driven by a high burden of venous thromboembolism, well-established hospital systems, and advanced interventional radiology capabilities. The countrys strong emphasis on evidence-based care and early adoption of innovative medical technologies supports widespread use of both retrievable and permanent filters. Europe: Europe is a significant market for Inferior Vena Cava IVC filters, supported by a growing geriatric population and a steady rise in cardiovascular and thromboembolic disorders. Countries such as Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront due to advanced healthcare systems and high awareness among clinicians. European regulatory frameworks, though strict, ensure patient safety and encourage the use of high-quality devices. Increasing adoption of minimally invasive procedures and greater integration of IVC filters in treatment protocols are driving demand. However, variations in healthcare access and reimbursement across the region pose moderate challenges to uniform market expansion. Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market, fueled by expanding healthcare infrastructure, a large at-risk population, and rising awareness of venous thromboembolism. Countries like China, India, and Japan are investing in advanced medical technologies and increasing the availability of interventional procedures. The growing burden of sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and aging populations further contributes to the rising incidence of pulmonary embolism. While cost sensitivity and regulatory diversity remain challenges, ongoing improvements in diagnostic and treatment capabilities are positioning Asia-Pacific as a high-potential market for both retrievable and permanent IVC filters. LAMEA: The LAMEA region presents emerging opportunities for the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market, driven by gradual improvements in healthcare access, rising incidence of thromboembolic diseases, and growing adoption of modern medical technologies. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and Mexico are seeing increased filter usage due to urbanization and the expansion of private healthcare. In the Middle East and Africa, rising investments in healthcare infrastructure and the growth of medical tourism are fostering market development. However, limited access to specialized care, lower awareness, and constrained healthcare budgets in several areas remain key challenges for widespread market penetration. Request a Customized Copy of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ (We customized your report to meet your specific research requirements. Inquire with our sales team about customizing your report.) Still, Looking for More Information? Do OR Want Data for Inclusion in magazines, case studies, research papers, or Media? Email Directly Here with Detail Information: support@custommarketinsights.com Browse the full Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Size, Trends and Insights By Product Type (Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava filters, Permanent Inferior Vena Cava Filters), By Material (Non-Ferromagnetic Material, Ferromagnetic Materials), By Application (Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism, Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism), By End Users (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Emergency Care Centers), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20252034 Report at https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ List of the prominent players in the Inferior Vena Cava Filter Market: Abbott Braun Melsungen AG Boston Scientific Corporation Canon Medical Systems Cardinal Health Cook Esaote SpA General Electric Company Hologic Inc. Koninklijke Philips N.V. Samsung Healthcare Shimadzu Corporation Siemens Healthcare Private Limited Stryker Terumo Europe NV Others Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Spectacular Deals Comprehensive coverage Maximum number of market tables and figures The subscription-based option is offered. Best price guarantee Free 35% or 60 hours of customization. Free post-sale service assistance. 25% discount on your next purchase. Service guarantees are available. Personalized market brief by author. 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Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 2025 2034 Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Market: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Market Size, Trends and Insights By Derived Cell Type (Hepatocytes, Fibroblasts, Keratinocytes, Amniotic Cells, Others), By Application (Drug Development, Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Disease Modelling, Toxicology Research), By End-Use (Academic & Research Institutes, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies, Others), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 2025 2034 The Inferior Vena Cava Filter Market is segmented as follows: By Product Type Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava filters Permanent Inferior Vena Cava Filters By Material Non-Ferromagnetic Material Ferromagnetic Materials By Application Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism By End Users Hospitals Ambulatory Surgical Centers Emergency Care Centers Click Here to Get a Free Sample Report of the Global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Regional Coverage: North America U.S. Canada Mexico Rest of North America Europe Germany France U.K. Russia Italy Spain Netherlands Rest of Europe Asia Pacific China Japan India New Zealand Australia South Korea Taiwan Rest of Asia Pacific The Middle East & Africa Saudi Arabia UAE Egypt Kuwait South Africa Rest of the Middle East & Africa Latin America Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America This Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Research/Analysis Report Contains Answers to the following Questions. Which Trends Are Causing These Developments? Who Are the Global Key Players in This Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market? What are Their Company Profile, Product Information, and Contact Information? What Was the Global Market Status of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market? What Was the Capacity, Production Value, Cost and PROFIT of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market? What Is the Current Market Status of the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Industry? What's Market Competition in This Industry, Both Company and Country Wise? What's Market Analysis of Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market by Considering Applications and Types? What Are Projections of the Global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Industry Considering Capacity, Production and Production Value? What Will Be the Estimation of Cost and Profit? What Will Be Market Share, Supply and Consumption? What about imports and exports? What Is Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Chain Analysis by Upstream Raw Materials and Downstream Industry? What Is the Economic Impact On Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Industry? What are Global Macroeconomic Environment Analysis Results? What Are Global Macroeconomic Environment Development Trends? What Are Market Dynamics of Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market? What Are Challenges and Opportunities? What Should Be Entry Strategies, Countermeasures to Economic Impact, and Marketing Channels for Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Industry? Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Reasons to Purchase Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Report provides qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on segmentation involving economic and non-economic factors. Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market report outlines market value (USD) data for each segment and sub-segment. This report indicates the region and segment expected to witness the fastest growth and dominate the market. Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Analysis by geography highlights the consumption of the product/service in the region and indicates the factors affecting the market within each region. The competitive landscape incorporates the market ranking of the major players, along with new service/product launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions in the past five years of companies profiled. Extensive company profiles comprising company overview, company insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis for the major market players. The Industry's current and future market outlook concerning recent developments (which involve growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and restraints of both emerging and developed regions. Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Market Includes in-depth market analysis from various perspectives through Porter's five forces analysis and provides insight into the market through Value Chain. Reasons for the Research Report The study provides a thorough overview of the global Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market. Compare your performance to that of the market as a whole. Aim to maintain competitiveness while innovations from established key players fuel market growth. Buy this Premium Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Research Report | Fast Delivery Available - [220+ Pages] @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ What does the report include? Drivers, restrictions, and opportunities are among the qualitative elements covered in the worldwide Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market analysis. The competitive environment of current and potential participants in the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market is covered in the report, as well as those companies' strategic product development ambitions. According to the component, application, and industry vertical, this study analyzes the market qualitatively and quantitatively. Additionally, the report offers comparable data for the important regions. For each segment mentioned above, actual market sizes and forecasts have been given. Who should buy this report? Participants and stakeholders worldwide Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market should find this report useful. The research will be useful to all market participants in the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter industry. Managers in the Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter sector are interested in publishing up-to-date and projected data about the worldwide Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter market. 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Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube Contact Us: Joel John CMI Consulting LLC 1333, 701 Tillery Street Unit 12, Austin, TX, Travis, US, 78702 USA: +1 737-734-2707 India: +91 20 46022736 Email: support@custommarketinsights.com Web: https://www.custommarketinsights.com/ Blog: https://www.techyounme.com/ Blog: https://businessresearchindustry.com Blog: https://www.technowalla.com/ Blog: https://marketresearchtrade.com/ Buy this Premium Inferior Vena Cava IVC Filter Research Report | Fast Delivery Available - [220+ Pages] @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/inferior-vena-ceva-ivc-filter-market/ Ibrutinib is the first approved Brutons tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor to demonstrate statistically meaningful outcomes versus autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for the frontline treatment of transplant eligible patients with mantle cell lymphoma1 Data from the Phase 3 TRIANGLE study defines the fixed-duration ibrutinib-based regimen as a new standard of care (SOC) with significantly improved overall survival and failure-free survival versus ASCT1 BEERSE, BELGIUM, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Janssen-Cilag International NV, a Johnson & Johnson company, today announced that the European Commission (EC) has approved an indication extension of IMBRUVICA (ibrutinib) in frontline mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).1 The approval is for ibrutinib in combination with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone (ibrutinib + R-CHOP) alternating with R-DHAP (or R-DHAOx)* without ibrutinib, followed by ibrutinib monotherapy, for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated MCL who would be eligible for autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT).1 MCL is still an aggressive, incurable disease and patients suffer under the burden associated with transplant, said Martin Dreyling, M.D., Ph.D., Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.** As a targeted therapy, ibrutinib represents an opportunity to improve long term outcomes earlier in the treatment pathway. Patients now have a new standard of care in first line treatment that not only offers prolonged survival but also avoids short and long-term toxicities associated with high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant. "For more than a decade, ibrutinib has been the standard of care in relapsed or refractory MCL, transforming patient outcomes in later lines. Today's approval for frontline use offers patients facing this aggressive blood cancer improved survival outcomes from the outset of treatment, said Ester in 't Groen, EMEA Therapeutic Area Head Haematology, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine. This milestone reinforces our commitment to evolving treatment paradigms in haematological malignancies through targeted, science-driven innovation. The approval for ibrutinib is supported by data from the open-label, randomised, Phase 3 TRIANGLE study conducted by the European MCL Network (NCT02858258).2 It evaluated 870 patients across three treatment arms to assess whether the addition of ibrutinib to chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) with or without ASCT could improve outcomes, when compared to ASCT + CIT alone, and potentially remove the need for transplant in patients with previously untreated MCL who were eligible for ASCT.2 At a median follow-up of 55 months, the findings demonstrated that treatment with ibrutinib plus CIT delivered significantly superior failure-free survival (FFS) while omitting the burden of ASCT (77 percent vs 68 percent at 54-months respectively; hazard ratio [HR], 0.639; 98 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.4280.953; two-sided p=0.0068) and that ibrutinib + CIT provided significantly longer overall survival versus ASCT plus CIT (88 percent vs 78 percent at 54-months respectively; HR, 0.522; 95 percent CI, 0.3410.799; two-sided p=0.0023).1 The overall safety profile of the ibrutinib + CIT regimen was consistent with the previously known safety profile of ibrutinib.3 The most common (>5 percent) Grade 3-5 adverse events observed in the ibrutinib + CIT arm (N=265) compared with the ASCT + CIT arm (N=268) were blood and lymphatic system disorders (64.9 percent vs 75.0 percent), neutrophil count decrease (24.2 percent vs 23.1 percent), platelet count decrease (29.4 percent vs 33.2 percent) and infections and infestations (28.7 percent vs 23.1 percent).3 Until now, fit patients with mantle cell lymphoma have only had the option of frontline treatment with ASCT and chemotherapy. Were incredibly proud that with this approval, ibrutinib has become the first alternative therapy for this patient population after demonstrating superior outcomes compared to the current standard of care, said Jessica Vermeulen, Vice President, Lymphoma & Leukemia Disease Area Stronghold Leader, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine. This approval reinforces our ongoing commitment to haematological malignancies, and the power of our collaborations with academics and researchers to bring cutting edge science to areas of high unmet need. About the TRIANGLE Study TRIANGLE (NCT02858258) is an ongoing, European, randomised, open-label, Phase 3 investigator initiated study (IIS) led by the European MCL Network.2 It compared three treatment arms: ibrutinib combined with standard induction immunochemotherapy with or without autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) followed by 2-year fixed-duration ibrutinib therapy versus induction immunochemotherapy followed by ASCT.2 The trial enrolled 870 patients with previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).2 The primary endpoint was failure-free survival (FFS).2 Overall survival (OS) and safety and tolerability were also assessed as secondary endpoints.2 The age for participation was 18 years and 65 years for patients who were suitable for high-dose treatment.2 The study was conducted by the European MCL Network across 14 countries.2 About Ibrutinib Ibrutinib is a once-daily oral medication that is jointly developed and commercialised by Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie company.1 Ibrutinib blocks the BTK protein, which is needed by normal and abnormal B-cells, including specific cancer cells, to multiply and spread.4 By blocking BTK, ibrutinib may help move abnormal B-cells out of their nourishing environments and inhibits their proliferation.5 Ibrutinib is approved in more than 100 countries and has been used to treat more than 325,000 patients worldwide.6 There are more than 50 company-sponsored clinical trials, including 18 Phase 3 studies, over 11 years evaluating the efficacy and safety of ibrutinib.1,7 In October 2021, ibrutinib was added to the World Health Organizations Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML), which refers to medicines that address global health priorities and which should be available and affordable for all.8 Ibrutinib was first approved by the European Commission (EC) in 2014, and approved indications to date include:1 As a single agent or in combination with rituximab or obinutuzumab or venetoclax for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) As a single agent or in combination with bendamustine and rituximab (BR) for the treatment of adult patients with CLL who have received at least one prior therapy As a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory MCL As a single agent for the treatment of adult patients with Waldenstroms macroglobulinaemia (WM) who have received at least one prior therapy, or in first line treatment for patients unsuitable for chemo-immunotherapy. In combination with rituximab for the treatment of adult patients with WM In combination with R-CHOP alternating with R-DHAP (or R-DHAOx)* without ibrutinib, followed by ibrutinib monotherapy, for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated MCL who would be eligible for autologous stem cell transplant For a full list of adverse events and information on dosage and administration, contraindications and other precautions when using ibrutinib please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics. About Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) MCL is an aggressive, incurable type of blood cancer that spreads quickly and originates from the B lymphocytes, a functional component of the human immune system.9 The overall incidence of MCL globally is approximately 1-2 cases per 100,000 persons per year and it has a higher prevalence in men than women.10 MCL is diagnosed at a median age of 65 years and while patient outcomes have dramatically improved over the latest few decades, MCL remains a difficult disease to treat with patients relapsing or becoming resistant to therapy.10 About Johnson & Johnson At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com/emea. Follow us at www.linkedin.com/company/jnj-innovative-medicine-emea. Janssen-Cilag International NV, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Janssen-Cilag Limited, Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Janssen Research & Development, LLC are Johnson & Johnson companies. Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of IMBRUVICA. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialise, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; changes in behaviour and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnsons most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in the sections captioned Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Item 1A. Risk Factors, and in Johnson & Johnsons subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at http://www.sec.gov/, http://www.jnj.com/ or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments. *R-DHAP refers to rituximab, dexamethasone, high-dose cytarabine (Ara-C) and cisplatin; R-DHAOx refers to rituximab, dexamethasone, high-dose cytarabine (Ara-C) and oxaliplatin.1 **Professor Martin Dreyling, M.D., Ph.D., Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, has provided consulting, advisory, and speaking services to Johnson & Johnson; he has not been paid for any media work. 1 European Medicines Agency. IMBRUVICA Summary of Product Characteristics. July 2025. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/imbruvica-epar-product-information_en.pdf. Last accessed: July 2025. 2 ClinicalTrials.gov. ASCT After a Rituximab/Ibrutinib/Ara-c Containing induction in Generalized Mantle Cell Lymphoma. NCT02858258. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02858258. Last accessed: July 2025. 3 J&J Data on File (RF-471208). Extension of Indication Variation Assessment Report. July 2025. 4 Turetsky A, et al. Single Cell Imaging of Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Using an Irreversible Inhibitor. Sci Rep. 2014;4:4782 5 de Rooij MF, et al. The Clinically Active BTK Inhibitor PCI-32765 Targets B-Cell Receptor- and Chemokine-Controlled Adhesion and Migration in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Blood. 2012. 119(11):2590-2594 6 J&J Data on File (RF-419273). Patients Treated on Imbruvica Worldwide. May 2025. 7 Pollyea DA, et al. A Phase I Dose Escalation Study of the Btk Inhibitor PCI-32765 in Relapsed and Refractory B Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Use of a Novel Fluorescent Probe Pharmacodynamic Assay. Blood. 2009. 114(22): 3713 8 World Health Organization. WHO Prioritizes Access to Diabetes and Cancer Treatments in New Essential Medicines Lists. Available at: https://www.who.int/news/item/01-10-2021-who-prioritizes-access-to-diabetes-and-cancer-treatments-in-new-essential-medicines-lists. Last accessed: July 2025. 9 Jain P. and Wang M. L. Mantle cell lymphoma in 2022-A comprehensive update on molecular pathogenesis, risk stratification, clinical approach, and current and novel treatments, American Journal of Hematology. 2022; 97;5:63856. 10 Dreyling, et al. Newly diagnosed and relapsed mantle cell lymphoma: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Annals of Oncology, 2017; 28:62-71 CP-529638 July 2025 TORONTO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- McEwen Inc. (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX) (McEwen, "MUX" or the "Company) is pleased to announce the discovery of high-grade mineralization approximately 200 meters West of the Froome Mine, which is the current source of production at the Fox Complex. This discovery will extend our mining at Froome. Highlights from Drilling at Froome West: Intercepts along the Froome West high-grade plunge (refer to Figures 2 and 3): Hole 25PR-G424 returned 36.0 g/t gold over 10.0 m (including 160.0 g/t gold over 2.2 m ), and 9.3 g/t gold over 7.8 m . over (including over ), and over . Hole 25PR-G399 returned 6.7 g/t gold over 3.4 m . over . Hole 25PR-G381 returned 15.0 g/t gold over 6.6 m and 4.9 g/t gold over 2.2 m. Extending mineralization further West (refer to Figures 2 and 3): Hole 25PR-G390 returned 11.7 g/t gold over 2.4 m and 18.5 g/t gold over 0.5 m , representing drill intercepts of two of the stacked mineralized zones stepping out to the West. over and over , representing drill intercepts of two of the stacked mineralized zones stepping out to the West. Hole 25PR-G413 returned 22.1 g/t gold over 1.8 m. Unless specified as core widths (CW), all assay intervals in this press release are presented as true widths (TW). The mineralization we see at Froome West occurs as several sub-vertical, stacked mineralized lenses which can often lead to increased flexibility during mining. Within these lenses we are seeing a concentration of high grade in a roughly 15 to 25 meters wide, vertically oriented trend (or plunge). Gold mineralization remains open to the West and at depth, which encourages further exploration in both directions. Froome West mineralization is similar in style to that seen at the Black Fox deposit (approx. 900 meters to the East and shown in Figure 1), characterized by structurally controlled, stacked, sub-vertically dipping quartz-carbonate veins, with occurrences of visible gold (VG) and showing a steep high-grade plunge. Total historical production at the Black Fox and Froome mines is 1.1 million gold ounces. The exploration program at Froome West will continue drilling to test deeper (along the down-dip extension of the high-grade plunge), and laterally (westward along strike), to evaluate broader regional mineralization trends. Figure 1 below provides an aerial view showing the location of the Froome West mineralization in relation to the Froome Mine deposit currently being mined and the historic Black Fox Mine, including its open pit and underground workings. Future mining activities at Froome West will continue to use the existing infrastructure currently used for mining operations at the Froome Mine. Figure 1. Aerial View of the Locations of Froome West, Froome Mine and Historical Black Fox Mine Mining infrastructure development on four levels is planned and already underway at Froome West, starting from the existing workings at the producing Froome Mine and extending 200 meters toward the West zones. This is shown in blue in Figures 2 and 3. The new infrastructure will allow for access and testing for extensions of the Froome West mineralization. Table 1 lists the new drilling results for Froome West that are presented in this press release. Table 1. Froome West Drill Results Highlights Hole ID From (m) To (m) Core Width (CW) (m) True Width (TW) (m) Grade Au (g/t) Uncapped Au x TW (g/t x m) Uncapped 25PR-G380 167.0 169.0 2.0 1.4 15.9 21.7 25PR-G381 158.0 161.0 3.0 2.2 4.9 10.8 And 173.0 182.0 9.0 6.6 15.0 99.4 25PR-G382 181.8 185.7 3.9 3.1 16.0 49.5 And 190.5 195.0 4.6 3.6 10.8 39.2 25PR-G383 176.1 183.4 7.3 5.0 6.5 32.6 And 210.1 213.0 2.9 2.0 8.9 18.0 25PR-G384 183.8 191.0 7.2 4.7 4.7 21.9 And 215.6 222.0 6.5 4.2 3.9 16.3 And 229.8 234.0 4.2 2.7 3.6 9.9 25PR-G390 132.8 133.7 0.9 0.5 18.5 10.0 And 192.2 196.0 3.8 2.4 11.7 28.1 25PR-G393 154.2 158.0 3.9 2.3 5.7 13.4 25PR-G394 129.2 133.0 3.8 3.0 7.4 22.0 25PR-G399 113.8 120.0 6.2 3.4 6.7 23.1 25PR-G400 37.8 45.2 7.4 5.2 6.2 31.8 25PR-G401 120.0 133.4 13.4 8.8 5.2 46.2 25PR-G402 232.0 240.0 8.0 3.5 3.7 12.8 25PR-G406 190.6 194.6 4.0 2.0 4.2 8.4 And 228.2 241.0 12.9 6.4 3.4 21.6 25PR-G411 152.1 156.9 4.8 2.8 3.4 9.3 25PR-G413 56.0 58.7 2.7 1.8 22.1 39.0 25PR-G416 194.5 196.3 1.7 1.1 14.7 16.1 25PR-G424 103.0 121.0 18.0 10.0 36.0 360.0 Including 115.0 119.0 4.0 2.2 160.0 355.2 And 126.0 140.0 14.0 7.8 9.3 72.9 The long section view A-A in Figure 2 below (location shown on Figure 1) shows the outline of the mineralized zones at Froome West and the locations of the drill hole intercepts listed in Table 1 above. The high-grade plunge is identified by the darker orange vertical lines, located to the Eastern side, close to the planned early infrastructure, and shows the potential expansion of the mineralized zone both to depth (down-dip) and to the West along strike. Figure 2. Long Section View A-A Looking East Northeast, Showing the Newly Discovered Froome West Mineralization (Orange), Including the High-Grade Plunge (Bright Orange), 200 Meters from the Froome Mine Operations, Where We Are Currently Mining (Olive Green and Green) The cross-section view B-B in Figure 3 below (location shown in Figure 1) shows the stacked lenses seen at Froome West. The section also shows the planned and current infrastructure (in blue), along with some of the notable drillhole intercepts received for this drilling campaign. Figure 3. Cross Section View B-B' Looking Northwest, Showing the Stacked Mineralized Zones West of Froome Mine and Notable Drill Hole Intercepts This discovery of high-grade mineralization will extend the mining at Froome and provide more optionality in our mine plan for the Fox Complex. As mentioned in previous announcements (see our June 5th press release and the Annual Meeting presentation from June 19th, 2025), our Stock Mine is part of the mine plan for the Fox Complex and is expected to come into commercial production in 2026. We are excited at the potential of what Froome West holds, in an area of our property that is relatively underexplored; our current mineralization model extends to a depth of 250 meters and remains open both at depth and to the West. The nearby Black Fox Mine historically produced nearly 1 million gold ounces, from mining that extended down to 800 meters below surface. With geology and mineralization styles comparable to those seen at Black Fox, which encountered mineralization as deep as 1,000 meters, the Froome West area has the potential to lead us to the discovery of a deposit of similar scale and significance, said Chief Geologist Rob Glover. A table of drill results at Froome West up until July 16th, 2025 that includes hole locations and alignments is available on the Companys website and can be accessed by clicking here. Technical Information Technical information pertaining to the Fox Complex exploration contained in this news release has been prepared under the supervision of Robert Glover, P.Geo., McEwen Ontarios Chief Geologist, who is a Qualified Person as defined by SEC S-K 1300 and Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects." The majority of the analyses reported herein were submitted as whole core samples and assayed by the photon assay method at the accredited laboratory MSA Labs (ISO 9001 & ISO 17025) in Timmins, Ontario, Canada. Additional analyses reported herein were submitted as whole core samples and assayed by the Fire Assay method at the McEwen Mine Assay Lab in Timmins, Ontario, Canada. ABOUT MCEWEN McEwen provides its shareholders with exposure to gold, copper and silver in the Americas by way of its three mines located in the USA, Canada and Argentina and its large advanced-stage copper development project in Argentina. It also has a gold and silver mine on care and maintenance in Mexico. Its Los Azules copper project aims to become one of the worlds first regenerative copper mines and is committed to carbon neutrality by 2038. Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner, has personally invested US$205 million in the companies and takes a salary of $1/ year. He is a recipient of the Order of Canada and a member of the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame. His objective for MUX is to build its share value and establish a dividend, as he did while building Goldcorp Inc. McEwen's shares are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol "MUX". CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, including "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements and information expressed, as at the date of this news release, McEwen Inc.'s (the "Company") estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results. Forward-looking statements and information are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies, and there can be no assurance that such statements and information will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, political, economic, social and security risks associated with foreign operations, the ability of the Company to receive or receive in a timely manner permits or other approvals required in connection with operations, risks associated with the construction of mining operations and commencement of production and the projected costs thereof, risks related to litigation, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves, foreign exchange volatility, foreign exchange controls, foreign currency risk, and other risks. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information included herein, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See McEwen Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the caption "Risk Factors", for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information regarding the Company. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement. The NYSE and TSX have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by the management of McEwen. Want News Fast? Subscribe to our email list by clicking here: https://www.mcewenmining.com/contact-us/#section=followUs and receive news as it happens!! WEB SITE SOCIAL MEDIA www.mcewenmining.com McEwen Facebook: facebook.com/mceweninc LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mceweninc CONTACT INFORMATION X: X.com/mceweninc 150 King Street West Instagram: instagram.com/mceweninc Suite 2800, PO Box 24 Toronto, ON, Canada McEwen Copper Facebook: facebook.com/ mcewencopper M5H 1J9 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcewencopper X: X.com/mcewencopper Relationship with Investors: Instagram: instagram.com/mcewencopper (866)-441-0690 - Toll free line (647)-258-0395 Rob McEwen Facebook: facebook.com/mcewenrob Mihaela Iancu ext. 320 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-mcewen-646ab24 info@mcewenmining.com X: X.com/robmcewenmux Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d11cd4c4-276c-4ad8-8e35-5d99046cf6eb https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7955b61-1191-4b74-a7b2-e443e0799b1a https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1a5877cf-0801-45eb-a8e3-c91e379c796e CHICAGO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- October Three, an industry-leading actuarial, defined benefit strategy, and administration consulting firm, announced today the Companys expansion with a new office in Indianapolis, Indiana. Located on the 24th floor of the OneAmerica Tower, the Indianapolis team will be focused on serving over 200 retirement plans. Indianapolis will be home to the Companys public plan practice which will be branded under the McCready name, as well as non-public plans serviced under the October Three brand. Most of the team members were previously employed with McCready and Keene, which was acquired from OneAmerica in April. Headquartered in Chicago, October Three also has offices in Jacksonville, Dallas and New York, along with remote workers throughout the country. With the recent resurgence of interest in cash balance plans, particularly market-based cash balance plans, weve seen a lot of growth in our business, said Jeff Stevenson, CEO of October Three. Expanding our resources by adding new staff and a new office allows us to better meet the growing demand, particularly in the Midwest. Theres a lot of financial expertise in the Indianapolis area, said Carter Angell, an Indianapolis-based Partner and member of October Threes leadership team. Opening an office in Indianapolis bolsters our ability to attract talented actuaries and consultants who can provide the top-tier consulting our clients expect. October Three is a recognized market leader in cash balance and innovative defined benefit plan designs. The Companys mission is to solve the retirement crisis by improving access to sustainable lifetime retirement income for American workers. October Threes O3 PRIME plan design provides security and flexibility by combining the best advantages of a defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan. The result is a market-based cash balance plan tightly integrated with a 401(k) that reduces risk and complexity for businesses while producing up to 30 percent more lifetime income for employees compared to what a DC plan alone can provide. About October Three: October Three Consulting, LLC is a full service actuarial, consulting and technology firm that is re-engineering defined benefit plan strategy, management and administration to meet the needs of the modern and future workforce. The companys O3 PRIME plan is based on cutting-edge technology, risk analysis and data-driven insights to minimize financial risk and volatility while maximizing employees potential for predictable retirement income. For more information, please follow October Three on LinkedIn and visit our website at octoberthree.com. Media Contact: Sean Harris media@octoberthree.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Myriad Uranium Corp. (Myriad or the Company) (OTCQB: MYRUF) (CSE: M) (FSE: C3Q), a uranium exploration company with an earnable 75% interest in the Copper Mountain Uranium Project in Wyoming, USA, and a 100% interest in the Red Basin Project in New Mexico, today announced that Thomas Lamb, CEO, will present live at the Metals & Mining Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on July 24, 2025. DATE: July 24, 2025 TIME: 2:30 PM ET LINK: REGISTER HERE Available for 1x1 meetings: July 25 and July 28, 2025. This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com . Upcoming Project Catalyst An important upcoming project catalyst is the assay of roughly 1,500 additional samples from late 2024 drilling. The results, if broadly positive, could confirm extensive entirely new mineralization at Copper Mountain that is largely unaccounted for by gamma and DFN probe measurements due to the effects of secular disequilibrium (a state where the radioactive decay products of uranium are not in equilibrium with their parent uranium isotopes). Positive results could significantly enhance the grades and interval thicknesses, which in turn could enhance the resources and economics of the project. Union Pacific was already on track to develop the project into a large-scale uranium mine in the late 1970s. Important details are discussed in the recent news release viewable here. About Myriad Uranium Corp. Myriad is a uranium exploration company advancing the Copper Mountain Uranium Project in Wyoming, USA, where it holds an earnable 75% interest. Copper Mountain hosts multiple known uranium deposits and past-producing mines, including the Arrowhead Mine, which produced 500,000 lbs of UO during the 1950s and 60s (Cramer et al., 1977a, and subsequent references). The project was extensively explored and developed by Union Pacific in the late 1970s, resulting in the identification of seven uranium deposits and fifteen additional prospects. A detailed mine plan was prepared to supply uranium for proposed reactors by California Edison, but operations were halted in 1980 due to collapsing uranium prices before mining could commence. To date, approximately 2,000 boreholes have been drilled at Copper Mountain. Union Pacific is estimated to have invested US$78 million (2024 dollars) into exploration and development, including significant historical resource estimates. These historical figures, if validated and expanded, could position Copper Mountain as one of the largest uranium projects in the United States. The property also offers substantial exploration upside. In addition, Myriad recently secured, subject to a planned geophysical survey in 2025, a 100% interest in the Red Basin Uranium Project in New Mexico. Red Basin contains shallow historical uranium resources and offers strong potential for resource expansion (Chamberlin, 1981). The announcement regarding the Red Basin acquisition can be viewed here and a subsequent announcement regarding an expansion of the Companys acreage to encompass ~800 of 1,050 historical boreholes in the basin can be viewed here. Our Crux Investor overview page including recent interviews can be viewed here. The Companys presentation can be viewed here. News releases regarding historical drilling can be viewed here and here. A news release summarising recent chemical assays of 2024 Copper Mountain drilling can be viewed here. Myriad also has a 50% interest in the Millen Mountain Property in Nova Scotia, Canada, with the other 50% held by Probe Gold Inc. For further information, please refer to Myriads disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), contact Myriad by telephone at +1.604.418.2877, or refer to Myriads website at www.myriaduranium.com. About Virtual Investor Conferences Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors. Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors. CONTACTS: Myriad Uranium Corp. Thomas Lamb CEO +1 (604) 418-2877 tlamb@myriaduranium.com Korean Intellectual Property Office Grants Two Patents on Materials & Process for Manufacturing P-100 and P-200 Silicon Battery Technology Integrating & Optimizing P-200 Series for Short-Duration, High-Capacity Electronics, Drone, and Defence Technology Lower Battery Validation Barrier for Electronics Expected to Expedite Silicon Technology Adoption Timeline TORONTO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NEO Battery Materials Ltd. (NEO or the Company) (TSXV: NBM) (OTC: NBMFF), a low-cost silicon anode materials developer that enables longer-running, rapid-charging lithium-ion batteries, is pleased to announce that the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) has issued Notice of Allowances for two patents regarding the P-100 and P-200 silicon battery materials. NEO is in efforts to integrate the P-200 series for short-duration, high-capacity drone and defence-tech applications. With applications submitted in June 2023, KIPO has granted the Notice of Allowance to the Company regarding patents named Silicon-Based Active Anode Material for Lithium Secondary Battery and Manufacturing Method Thereof I (Silicon Patent I) and Silicon-Based Active Anode Material for Lithium Secondary Battery and Manufacturing Method Thereof II (Silicon Patent II). The patents will be duly issued and registered upon the completion of post-filing documentation. The two patents are the first intellectual property rights independently developed by NEO aside from the existing patents licensed and developed in tandem with the Yonsei University-Industry Foundation. Both Silicon Patent I and Silicon Patent II protect the material properties and proprietary manufacturing process of the P-100 and P-200 products, respectively: Silicon Patent I secures the critical phase of milling low-cost metallurgical silicon to form a core-shell composite structure between the silicon core and an amorphous silicon oxide layer Silicon Patent II secures the nanocoating and additive technology to create a uniform, thin polymer nanolayer on the Silicon Patent I core to manufacture the core-shell composite structure P-200 Series: Targeting Integration for Drone and Defence-Tech Battery Applications In addition to ongoing efforts with the P-300N line for high cycle life, the Company is directing technical resources toward integrating the P-200 series for short-duration, high-capacity electronics. Offering an industry-leading capacity of 2,500 mAh/g, compared to the average pf 1,300 mAh/g, the P-200 is suitable for use in batteries for drones, defence technology systems, remote-controlled devices, and similar electronics. Due to lower validation barriers for electronics compared to larger applications like electric vehicles, NEO expects that the P-200 series to have an expedited adoption timeline in existing electronics battery systems, commented Dr. J.S. Jeoung, SVP of Cell Development. Targeting the electronics sector provides a strategic entry point with reduced commercialization friction, potentially enabling earlier revenue generation. NEO can also further access additional commercialization channels while continuing to advance long-cycle life products like the P-300N. About NEO Battery Materials Ltd. NEO Battery Materials is a Canadian battery materials technology company focused on developing silicon anode materials for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, electronics, and energy storage systems. With a patent-protected, low-cost manufacturing process, NEO Battery enables longer-running and ultra-fast charging batteries compared to existing state-of-the-art technologies. The Company aims to be a globally-leading producer of silicon anode materials for the electric vehicle and energy storage industries. For more information, please visit the Companys website at: https://www.neobatterymaterials.com/. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Spencer Huh Director, President, and CEO For Investor Relations, PR & More Information: info@neobatterymaterials.com T: +1 (437) 451-7678 This news release includes certain forward-looking statements as well as management's objectives, strategies, beliefs and intentions. All information contained herein that is not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. Generally, such forward-looking information can be identified notably by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: volatile stock prices; the general global markets and economic conditions; the possibility of write-downs and impairments; the risk associated with the research and development of advanced and battery-related technologies; the risk associated with the effectiveness and feasibility of technologies that have not yet been tested or proven on commercial scale; manufacturing process scale-up risks, including maintaining consistent material quality, production yields, and process reproducibility at a pilot or commercial scale; compatibility issues with existing battery chemistries and unforeseen the risks associated with entering into and maintaining collaborations, joint ventures, or partnerships with battery cell manufacturers, original equipment manufacturers, and various companies in the global battery supply chain; the risks associated with the construction, completion, and financing of commercial facilities including the Windsor and South Korean facilities; the risks associated with supply chain disruptions or cost fluctuations in raw materials, processing chemicals, and additive prices, impacting production costs and commercial viability; the risks associated with uninsurable risks arising during the course of research, development and production; competition faced by the Company in securing experienced personnel and financing; access to adequate infrastructure and resources to support battery materials research and development activities; the risks associated with changes in the technology regulatory regime governing the Company; the risks associated with the timely execution of the Companys strategies and business plans; the risks associated with the lithium-ion battery industrys demand and adoption of the Companys silicon anode technology; market adoption and integration challenges, including the difficulty of incorporating silicon anodes within battery manufacturers and OEMs systems; the risks associated with the various environmental and political regulations the Company is subject to; risks related to regulatory and permitting delays; the reliance on key personnel; liquidity risks; the risk of litigation; risk management; and other risk factors as identified in the Companys recent Financial Statements and MD&A and in recent securities filings for the Company which are available on www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking information is based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made, including but not limited to, continued R&D and commercialization activities, no material adverse change in precursor prices, development and commercialization plans to proceed in accordance with plans and such plans to achieve their stated expected outcomes, receipt of required regulatory approvals, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the 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. Such forward-looking information has been provided for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company's business, operations, research and development, and commercialization plans and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is made as of the date of this presentation, and the Company does not undertake to update such forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of theTSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. San Antonio, TX, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Endeavors, the largest Veteran-serving nonprofit in Texas, and K9s For Warriors, the nations leading provider of trained Service Dogs for Veterans experiencing mental health trauma, are launching a new initiative to further support Veterans before, during, and after being paired with a Service Dog. The Strength in Step program offers evidence-based behavioral health case management, suicide prevention trainings and tools, and virtual wellness resources to Veterans participating in the K9s For Warriors program across the nation. For some of our heroes, the transition home from military service can be isolating. The period following discharge or during extended wait times for supportcan leave Veterans vulnerable to depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. This program addresses suicide risk with proactive supportive services designed to assist a Veteran from the moment they are accepted into the K9s For Warriors program, paired with a life-changing Service Dog, and long after. A Service Dog can save a lifeand so can timely care. Endeavors is honored to launch the Strength in Step program to support Veterans awaiting connection to these lifesaving resources and those who have already began their journey with a Service Dog, said Karah Smith, Director of Suicide Prevention and Community Services at Endeavors. Strength in Step brings Veterans the care they need right nowcompassionate case management, emotional wellness tools, and suicide prevention supportso they feel valued, connected, and ready for the next phase in their healing journey. Endeavors will provide at-risk Veterans identified by K9s For Warriors with personalized case management to develop step-by-step action plans toward mental and emotional health. In addition, team members at K9s For Warriors will receive suicide prevention training through the Endeavors CARF Certified Zero Suicide Initiativea nationally recognized approach to building psychological safety within care organizations. A Service Dog is a vital tool in the healing process for many Veterans suffering from invisible wounds, not the end of it and our commitment to each Warrior extends far beyond the pairing of a Veteran and Service Dog, said Retired U.S. Marine Veteran Kevin Steele, Chief Program Officer at K9s For Warriors. But we also know that every day spent waiting to receive a Service Dog from us can feel impossible. Partnering with Endeavors allows us to bridge that critical gap, so Warriors receive the care, connection, resources and stability they deserve while they wait for their future battle buddy. Community members seeking information about Strength in Step are encouraged to email info@endeavors.org. About Endeavors Headquartered in San Antonio, Endeavors is a national service organization that has been assisting vulnerable populations since 1969. Endeavors offers an array of services and programs supporting children, families, migrants, Veterans, and those struggling with mental illness, disabilities, disasters, or emergencies. Endeavors serves people in crisis with personalized services. For more information visit: www.endeavors.org. About K9s For Warriors Determined to end Veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization that provides trained Service Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma at no financial cost to the Veteran. Backed by groundbreaking scientific research from the University of Arizonas OHAIRE Lab, the program demonstrates how Service Dogs can help mitigate symptoms of PTSD while simultaneously restoring confidence and independence. Founded in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, K9s For Warriors is committed to saving lives at both ends of the leash by primarily rescuing dogs and pairing them with Veterans in need. The organization is also dedicated to raising awareness about Veterans mental health and driving policy-level reform. To date, K9s has paired more than 1,000 Veterans with life-changing Service Dogs and rescued more than 2,000 dogs. Find more information at www.k9sforwarriors.org | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn # ## COLLEGE STATION, Texas, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Former Students, the official alumni association of Texas A&M University serving approximately 600,000 members of the Aggie Network, is proud to announce a new corporate partnership with Verizon, one of the worlds leading providers of technology and communications services that power and empower how people live, play and work. This partnership will support The Associations mission to engage, connect and serve the worldwide Aggie Network. We are excited to welcome Verizon as a valued corporate partner of The Association of Former Students, said Scot Walker 90, Vice President at The Association of Former Students. Verizon shares The Associations commitment to fostering connections within the worldwide Aggie Network. Their support will enhance our ability to do just that. As part of this partnership, Verizon will provide financial support to The Association of Former Students to advance programs, resources and experiences for the Aggie Network. Verizon will be onsite at many of the special events and former students may receive occasional updates and promotional materials from Verizon. Verizon is honored to support the worldwide Aggie Network and The Association of Former Students, said Michelle R. Miller, Senior Vice President at Verizon. This partnership will ensure Texas A&M former students and friends remain connected and engaged wherever life takes them. For more information about The Association of Former Students and its corporate partnership program, visit tx.ag/PartnerProgram. The Association of Former Students, established in 1879, is the official alumni organization of Texas A&M University. The Association connects hundreds of thousands of members of the worldwide Aggie Network with each other and the university, and provided $16.1 million in impact to university scholarships, awards, traditions and student activities and recognition for students, faculty, staff and former students in 2024. For more information, visit www.AggieNetwork.com . CONTACTS: Scot Walker 90 Vice President, The Association of Former Students SWalker90@AggieNetwork.com (979) 845-7514 Ashley Rea Senior Manager - Communications, Verizon ashley.rea@verizon.com (469) 673-6382 Dublin, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market was valued at USD 29.50 billion in 2024, driven by the increasing prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis across the globe. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.60% during the forecast period of 2025-2034, reaching a value of USD 46.26 billion by 2034. A surge in obesity rates, increasing awareness concerning rheumatic disorders, and the rising geriatric population have significantly contributed to the market growth. Additionally, the rise in generic drug approvals and growth in clinical trials reflects the ongoing expansion of the market. Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Growth Drivers Growing Prevalence of Rheumatoid Arthritis Drives the Market Demand A significant driver in the market includes the growing prevalence of the disease. Recent data reveals that around 1.5 million people in the United States are affected by rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, females are reported to be nearly three times more likely to develop the autoimmune condition as compared to males. Research has shown that early treatment can put the disease into remission, reflecting the importance of effective therapeutics to manage the condition. Thus, with the rising cases of the disease, the market demand for these drugs is expected to witness a rise. Further, the increasing aging population which is at a higher risk of developing the disorder is poised to influence the market landscape. Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Trends Rising Entry of Generic Drugs Supports the Market Expansion In August 2023, an Indian multinational pharmaceutical company Zydus Lifesciences Limited received the United States US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval to manufacture and market its generic Indomethacin suppositories (50 mg strength), a non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory drug used for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. The FDA also granted a 180-day competitive generic therapy (CGT) exclusivity to market the generic treatment drug as it deemed there is inadequate generic competition for the drug in the United States market. The rise in the approval of generic therapeutics indicated for rheumatoid arthritis is likely to improve the accessibility of treatment alternatives to the growing patient pool, which is projected to bolster the market growth in the forecast period. Surge in Clinical Trials of Novel Therapies to Meet the Rising Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Demand One of the major market trends is the growth in clinical trials of new and advanced rheumatoid arthritis medications which are anticipated to enhance patient outcomes and stimulate market expansion. In October 2023, a United States-based biotechnology company Rise Therapeutics revealed that the regulatory agency FDA has accepted its investigational new drug (IND) application that will allow initiation of the Phase I clinical trial of R-2487 intended for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. In the single and repeat-dose clinical study enrolling 36 subjects, the cellular immunotherapy R-2487 will be assessed for tolerability, drug exposure, safety, and clinical activity. It is reported that the clinical activity of R-2487 will be evaluated by measuring improvement in rheumatoid arthritis disease severity and other biomarkers. The development of such oral immunotherapy treatments that can facilitate ease of delivery of protein-based biologics therapy and are available at reduced costs are projected to positively impact the market dynamics. Rising Preference for Combination Therapies is Projected to Boost Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Size Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis manage inflammation in the affected patients and can ease associated symptoms like pain and stiffness. However, sometimes a single drug is not sufficient to treat this autoimmune disease. In such cases, patients are prescribed with more than one drug to effectively control the symptoms. For example, a treatment that combines ethotrexate with leflunomide or methotrexate with sulfasalazine is reported to be the most effective two-drug combinations of conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) . The rising demand for combination therapies due to their ability to provide better clinical benefits is anticipated to fuel the market size. Advances in Personalized Medicine is Likely to Elevate Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Value The rising advancements in personalized treatment approaches supported by robust research initiatives is resulting in tailored therapies that can improve patient outcomes. Biomarkers are increasingly employed as key tools in the development of personalized medicine towards rheumatoid arthritis to accurately predict the patient's disease phenotype and response to treatment. Further, the growing innovation in omic technologies and clinical study design is expected to accelerate rheumatoid biomarker discovery, which is likely to amplify the demand for precision medicine, thereby stimulating market growth. Key Questions Answered in the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Report What was the rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market value in 2023? What is the rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market forecast outlook for 2025-2034? What are the regional markets covered in the report? What is market segmentation based on product type? What is the market breakup based on sales type? What is the market breakup by route of administration? What are the various distribution channels present in the market? What are the major end users in the market? What are the major factors aiding the rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market demand? How has the market performed so far and how is it anticipated to perform in the coming years? What are the market's major drivers, opportunities, and restraints? Which regional market is expected to lead the market share in the forecast period? Which country is expected to experience expedited growth during the forecast period? How does the prevalence and incidence of rheumatoid arthritis affect the market landscape? What are the major rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market trends? How does the rise in the geriatric population impact the market size? Which product type will dominate the market share? Which sales type is expected to have a high market value in the coming years? Which route of administration will experience the highest demand in the market segment? Which distribution channel is poised to cover a major market share? Which end user is anticipated to drive market growth? Who are the key players involved in the rheumatoid arthritis therapeutics market? What clinical trials are undergoing in the market? What is the patent landscape of the market? What are the current unmet needs and challenges in the market? How are partnerships, collaborations, mergers and acquisitions among the key market players shaping the market dynamics? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 400 Forecast Period 2025 - 2034 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $29.5 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2034 $46.26 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.6% Regions Covered Global Leading Players in the Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market The key features of the market report include patent analysis, grants analysis, clinical trials analysis, funding and investment analysis, partnerships, and collaborations analysis by the leading key players. Pfizer Inc Amgen Inc Bristol-Myers Squibb Company F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd UCB S.A. Gilead Sciences, Inc Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH Novartis International AG Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc AbbVie Eli Lilly and Company Celgene Corporation Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Segmentation Market Breakup by Product Type Biologics Non-Biologics Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Synthetic Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (SDMARDs) Others Market Breakup by Sales Type Prescription Over The Counter (OTC) Others Market Breakup by Route of Administration Oral Parenteral Market Breakup by Distribution Channel Hospital Pharmacy Retail Pharmacy Online Market Breakup by End User Hospitals & Clinics Research and Academic Laboratories Others Market Breakup by Region United States EU-4 and United Kingdom Germany France Italy Spain United Kingdom Japan India For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/p6wvcd About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Austin, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Oilfield Equipment Rental Market Size was valued at USD 23.53 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 31.80 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 3.84% over the forecast period of 2025-2032. Growing oil demand and shale exploration fuel rising preference for flexible and cost-effective oilfield equipment rental solutions globally The oilfield equipment rental market is gaining momentum due to rising offshore and shale exploration activities and higher crude oil prices. U.S. Energy Information Administration data shows domestic crude production increased from 11.9 million barrels per day in 2022 to over 12.4 million in 2023, highlighting stronger drilling demand. In April 2023, Halliburton invested $250 million to expand its rental fleet, reflecting corporate optimism. A growing shift toward cost-efficient rental models over large capital investments, paired with digital monitoring advancements, continues to strengthen the market. Download PDF Sample of Oilfield Equipment Rental Market @ https://www.snsinsider.com/sample-request/7895 The U.S. Oilfield Equipment Rental market is valued at USD 7.31 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach a value of USD 9.58 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of approximately 3.44% in the forecast period of 2025 to 2032. In the US, growth is driven by booming shale exploration, cost-effective rental models, and an increasing number of active drilling rigs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, over 5,000 drilling permits were approved in 2023, highlighting rising operator confidence and fueling further demand for rental equipment solutions. Key Players: Halliburton Technip Baker Hughes Transocean Bechtel Corporation National Oilwell Varco Schlumberger McDermott International Inc. COSL - China Oilfield Services Limited Petrofac Oilfield Equipment Rental Market Report Scope: Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2024 USD 23.53 Billion Market Size by 2032 USD 31.80 Billion CAGR CAGR of 3.84% From 2025 to 2032 Base Year 2023 Forecast Period 2025-2032 Historical Data 2021-2023 Report Scope & Coverage Market Size, Segments Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Regional Analysis, DROC & SWOT Analysis, Forecast Outlook Key Drivers Digital Transformation Drives Innovation in Oilfield Equipment Rental Industry, Enhancing Efficiency and ROI Through Smart Drilling Solutions. If You Need Any Customization on Oilfield Equipment Rental Market Report, Inquire Now @ https://www.snsinsider.com/enquiry/7895 By Type, Drilling Equipment dominated the Oilfield Equipment Rental Market in 2024, with a 48% Market Share. The dominance is due to higher drilling rig deployments across North American shale and offshore fields, alongside rising investments in unconventional reservoirs. Major rental firms like Weatherford and Superior Energy saw rental revenue growth in 2023, while Baker Hughes introduced high-torque rental drill strings to reduce downtime in deeper wells. Renting advanced tools offers operational flexibility and lower capital risk, making drilling equipment indispensable for operators seeking faster project completion and efficiency in increasingly complex drilling environments. By Application, Onshore Application dominated the Oilfield Equipment Rental Market in 2024, with a 69% Market Share. The dominance is due to a surge in hydraulic fracturing projects, rapid well development, and standardized rental equipment benefiting onshore sites. The US Permian Basin alone had over 2,000 active wells in 2023, driving demand for fishing tools and pressure control systems. Onshore drilling enjoys quick fleet replacement and competitive pricing, unlike offshore projects. In May 2023, Nabors Industries expanded rental services in West Texas, driven by growing rig demand, reinforcing onshore applications as the key driver of rental market growth. By Region, North America dominated the Oilfield Equipment Rental Market in 2024, Holding a 42.00% Market Share. The dominance is due to mature shale plays, high rig activity, and an established rental services culture. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, there were on average 621 active rigs in 2023, up from the previous year. Firms like Precision Drilling invested in digital monitoring to enhance equipment performance and reduce downtime. The preference for operational efficiency, short payback periods, and reduced capital expenditure keeps fueling strong demand across key formations like the Permian, Eagle Ford, and Bakken. Recent Developments In June 2025, Baker Hughes contributed its Surface Pressure Control (SPC) product line to a new JV where Cactus will own 65%. This carve-out optimizes Baker Hughes rental portfolio while leveraging Cactus operational expertise in wellhead equipment rentals. Buy Full Research Report on Oilfield Equipment Rental Market 2025-2032 @ https://www.snsinsider.com/checkout/7895 About Us: SNS Insider is one of the leading market research and consulting agencies that dominates the market research industry globally. Our company's aim is to give clients the knowledge they require in order to function in changing circumstances. In order to give you current, accurate market data, consumer insights, and opinions so that you can make decisions with confidence, we employ a variety of techniques, including surveys, video talks, and focus groups around the world. RADNOR, Pa., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that securities class action lawsuits have been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (Hims & Hers) (NYSE: HIMS) on behalf of those who purchased or otherwise acquired Hims & Hers securities between April 29, 2025, and June 23, 2025, inclusive (the Class Period). The lead plaintiff deadline is August 25, 2025. CONTACT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP: If you suffered Hims & Hers losses, you may CLICK HERE or copy and paste the following link into your browser: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/hims-hers-health-inc?utm_source=Globe&utm_medium=PR You can also contact attorney Jonathan Naji, Esq. by calling (484) 270-1453 or by email at info@ktmc.com. DEFENDANTS ALLEGED MISCONDUCT: The complaints allege that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the companys business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Hims & Hers was engaged in the deceptive promotion and selling of illegitimate, knockoff versions of Wegovy that put patient safety at risk; (2) as a result, there was a substantial risk that Hims & Hers collaboration with Novo Nordisk would be terminated; and (3) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants positive statements about the companys business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. Please CLICK HERE to view our video or copy and paste this link into your browser: https://youtu.be/xuStgUOFgE8 THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: Hims & Hers investors may, no later than August 25, 2025, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Hims & Hers investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE OR GO TO: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/hims-hers-health-inc?utm_source=Globe&utm_medium=PR ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com. CONTACT: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 280 King of Prussia Road Radnor, PA 19087 info@ktmc.com May be considered attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP (Scott+Scott), an international shareholder and consumer rights litigation firm, has filed a securities class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC (Reckitt or the Company) (OTC: RBGLY), and certain of its former and current officers and/or directors (collectively, Defendants). The Class Action asserts claims under 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78j(b) and 78t(a)) and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (17 C.F.R. 240.10b-5) on behalf of all persons other than Defendants who purchased or otherwise acquired Reckitt American Depositary Shares (ADSs) between January 13, 2021, and July 28, 2024, inclusive (the Class Period), and were damaged thereby (the Class). The Class Action filed by Scott+Scott is captioned: Elevator Constructors Union Local No. 1 Annuity & 401(K) Fund v. Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC, et al., Case No. 1:25-cv-4708. CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS ONGOING CLASS ACTION BY THE AUGUST 4, 2025 DEADLINE Reckitt is a United Kingdom-based, global consumer goods company. To date, over 500 state and federal products liability lawsuits have been filed against Reckitt and its competitor, Abbott Laboratories (Abbott), claiming that they failed to adequately warn that premature infants consuming cow milk-based formulas, such as Reckitts Enfamil and Abbotts Similac, have an increased risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a life-threatening intestinal disease that affects premature or low birth weight infants. The Class Action alleges that, during the Class Period, Defendants made misleading statements and omissions regarding the Companys business, financial condition, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to warn investors and consumers: (1) that preterm infants were at an increased risk of developing NEC by consuming Reckitts cows milk-based formula, Enfamil; (2) of the attendant impact on Reckitts sales of Enfamil and Reckitts exposure to legal claims; and (3) as a result of the above, Defendants positive statements about the Companys business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. The market began to learn the truth on March 15, 2024, when, in the case captioned Watson vs. Mead Johnson Co., Case No. 21-L-1032 (Ill. Cir. Ct. Oct. 28, 2021), a jury in St. Clair County, Illinois, returned a $60 million verdict in the first NEC lawsuit to be tried to a verdict. The jury found that Mead Johnson was negligent and failed to warn the decedents mother of the increased risk her preterm infant could develop NEC by consuming cows milk-based formula. On this news, the price of the Companys ADSs fell $1.87, or nearly 14%, from a closing price of $13.31 per share on March 14, 2024, to a closing price of $11.44 per share on March 15, 2024. Then, on July 29, 2024, the market continued to learn the truth when, in the case captioned Gill v. Abbot Laboratories, Inc., Case No. 2322-CC1251 (Mo. Circ. Ct. Jun. 23, 2023), a jury in St. Louis, Missouri, concluded that Abbotts specialized formula for premature babies led to a baby developing NEC and awarded the plaintiff $495 million. On this news, the price of the Companys ADSs fell $1.02, or nearly 9%, from a closing price of $11.66 per share on July 28, 2024, to a closing price of $10.64 per share on July 29, 2024. ARE YOU A POTENTIAL CLASS MEMBER ELIGIBLE TO RECOVER? CLICK HERE BY THE AUGUST 4, 2025 DEADLINE If you purchased Reckitt ADSs during the Class Period and were damaged thereby, you are a member of the Class and may be able to seek appointment as lead plaintiff. If you wish to apply to be lead plaintiff, a motion on your behalf must be filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York no later than August 4, 2025. The lead plaintiff is a court-appointed representative for absent class members of the Class. You do not need to seek appointment as lead plaintiff to share in any Class recovery in the Class Action. If you are a Class member and there is a recovery for the Class, you can share in that recovery as an absent Class member. If you wish to apply to be lead plaintiff, please contact attorney Nicholas Bruno at (888) 398-9312 or at nbruno@scott-scott.com. What Can You Do? You may contact an attorney to discuss your rights regarding the appointment of lead plaintiff or your interest in the Class Action. You may retain counsel of your choice to represent you in the Class Action. About Scott+Scott Scott+Scott is an international law firm known for its expertise in representing corporate clients, institutional investors, businesses, and individuals harmed by anticompetitive conduct or other forms of wrongdoing, including securities law and shareholder violations. With more than 100 attorneys in eight offices in the United States, as well as three offices in Europe, our advocacy has resulted in significant monetary settlements on behalf of our clients, along with other forms of relief. Our highly experienced attorneys have been recognized for being among the top financial lawyers in 2024 by Lawdragon, WWL: Commercial Litigation 2024, and Legal 500 in Antitrust Civil Litigation, and have received top Chambers 2024 rankings. In addition, we have been repeatedly recognized by the American Antitrust Institute for the successful litigation of high-stakes anticompetitive claims in the United States. To learn more about Scott+Scott, our attorneys, or complex case resolution, please visit www.scott-scott.com. This may be considered Attorney Advertising. CONTACT: Nicholas S. Bruno Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP 230 Park Avenue, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10169 (888) 398-9312 nbruno@scott-scott.com Ivry-sur-Seine, France, July 23, 2025 Fnac Darty continues to implement its buyback program Fnac Darty continues to implement the share buyback program authorized by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 28, 2025 for a total of 600,000 shares. The purchase agreement announced on June 11, 2025 with the investment service provider Natixis is the subject of an amendment signed today. By this amendment: The deadline is now September 30, 2025. The maximum amount to be purchased is increased to 10 million, at the latest at maturity. The other terms and conditions set out in this agreement remain unchanged, in particular the unit purchase price of the shares may not exceed the maximum price of 80 set by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 28, 2025. CONTACTS ANALYSTS/INVESTORS Domitille Vielle Head of Investor Relations domitille.vielle@fnacdarty.com +33 (0)6 03 86 05 02 Laura Parisot Investor Relations Manager laura.parisot@fnacdarty.com +33 (0)6 64 74 27 18 PRESS Benedicte Debusschere Head of Media Relations and Influence benedicte.debusschere@fnacdarty.com +33 (0)6 48 56 70 71 Attachment Q2 2025 Energy production +13% and turnover up +11% Q2 2025 turnover at 147.7 million euros Energy Sales: Growth in production +13% (to 1.3 terawatt-hours) despite a higher curtailment in Brazil. Turnover decrease of -13% (-7% at constant exchange rates), mainly penalised by a price effect arising from the end of short-term contracts at high prices (effects of early production 1 ), and by an unfavourable EUR/BRL exchange rate relative to 2024, resulting in turnover of 81.7 million euros ), and by an unfavourable EUR/BRL exchange rate relative to 2024, resulting in turnover of 81.7 million euros Services to third parties: Strong growth driven by construction of power plants, particularly in Ireland, Spain and the United Kingdom, combined with growth in Operation and Maintenance, increasing Services turnover to 65.9 million euros. Turnover have been restated for the Equipment Procurement segment, which was discontinued in the first half of 20252 Operational indicators of production and capacity as of June 30, 2025 Energy production up in the first half of 2025: +14% to 2.4 terawatt-hours, despite Brazilian curtailment 3 of 268 gigawatt-hours, for a total of 14% of Brazilian production (10% of total production) of 268 gigawatt-hours, for a total of 14% of Brazilian production (10% of total production) Capacity in operation and under construction: +7% at 3.3 gigawatts including 2.5 gigawatts in operation and 0.8 gigawatt under construction Capacity operated for behalf of third-party clients: +20% to 7.7 gigawatts 2025 operational objectives Capacity in operation and under construction of around 3.6 gigawatts (+10% compared with 2024) including around 3 gigawatts in operation (+20%) with most of commissioning at the end of 2025 Production of around 5.2 terawatt-hours (+10% compared with 2024) SPRING Transformation Plan: update on the diagnostic The diagnostic phase is now finalised as of June 2025 remains the definition of the current action, which will be presented jointly with the presentation of the 2025 half-year results Voltalia (Euronext Paris, code ISIN: FR0011995588), an international player in renewable energy, publishes today its 2025 second quarter turnover. Voltalia continues to grow in the first half of the year with an increase in turnover, driven by our Services activities, which mitigated the temporary downturn in Energy Sales. This momentum, combined with a 14% increase in production and a portfolio of operating power plants totalling 3.3 gigawatts, reflects our solid underlying operating indicators. In line with our business activities, we are finalising our SPRING strategic plan, whose actions will be presented in September for immediate implementation, with the aim of strengthening our competitiveness and agility in the face of the sectors swift evolution. In this rapidly changing renewable energies market, Voltalia is fully mobilized to transform these challenges into levers for sustainable and profitable growth.", declares Robert Klein, CEO of Voltalia. Second-quarter (Q2) and first-half 2025 turnover In million euros Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Var. at current exchange rates Var. at constant exchange rates H1 2025 H1 2024 Var. at current exchange rates Var. at constant exchange rates Energy Sales 81.7 93.9 -13% -7% 152.1 166.6 -9% -2% Services 65.9 38.9 +69% +70% 104.8 70.1 +50% +50% Turnover 147.7 132.9 +11% +16% 257.0 236.7 +9% +13% REVIEW OF ACTIVITIES First-half 2025 turnover reaches 257 million euros, up +9% at current exchange rates (+13% at constant exchange rates). Whilst Energy Sales were down -9% at current exchange rates, growth was driven by Services to third parties, which were up by 50% at current exchange rates (+50% at constant exchange rates). Energy Sales and Services account for 59% and 41% respectively of first-half 2025 turnover. By geographic region, 64 % of half-year turnover was generated in Europe, 30% in Latin America and 6% in Africa. Second-quarter 2025 turnover reaches 147.7 million euros, up +11% (+16% at constant exchange rates), driven by the +69% increase in Services for third party customers (+70% at constant exchange rates), which mitigated the temporary -13% decline in Energy Sales. Energy Sales and Services account for 55% and 45% respectively of second-quarter 2025 turnover. ENERGY SALES Operational Indicators Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Var. H1 2025 H1 2024 Var. Production (in GWh) 1,257 1,111 +13% 2,373 2,084 +14% Production curtailment (in GWh) 181 268 Capacity in operation (in MW) 2,524 2 452 +3% Capacity in operation and under construction (in MW) 3,279 3 057 +7% Wind load factor in Brazil 33% 27% +6pts 33% 27% +6pts Wind load factor in Brazil without curtailment 40% 33% +7pts 39% 31% +8pts Solar load factor in Brazil 24% 22% +2pts 24% 23% +1pt Solar load factor in Brazil without curtailment 29% 27% +2pts 29% 27% +2pts Wind load factor in France 19% 20% -1pt 24% 24% stable Solar load factor in France 12% 17% -5pts 11% 14% -3pts Solar load factor in Egypt and Jordan 32% 31% +1pt 27% 26% +1pt Solar load factor in Albania 31% 30% +1pt 22% 22% stable Solar load factor in the UK 26% 22% +4pts 19% 15% +4pts Solar load factor in Portugal 26% 25% +1pt 19% 20% -1pt First-half 2025 turnover from Energy Sales reaches 152.1 million euros, down -9% (-2% at constant exchange rates). The average EUR/BRL rate was 6.30 in the first half of 2025, compared with 5.49 in the first half of 2024. Second-quarter 2025 production reaches 1,257 GWh, up +13% compared with second-quarter 2024 from 1,111 GWh. The rise in production is due to higher resource levels in Brazil and increased operating capacity, notably from Helexia in Europe and Brazil. Operating capacity is 61% in Latin America, 36% in Europe and 3 % in the rest of the world. Quarterly analysis production by country In Brazil, production increases by +17% due to a better level of resources than in 2024, despite an increase in curtailment in the second quarter of 2025 (181 GWh). In France, production falls by -20% due to the combined effect of disposals in 2024 4 and a less favourable solar resource than in the second quarter of 2024. and a less favourable solar resource than in the second quarter of 2024. In the rest of the world, production is up +3% due to the combined effect of better resource levels in the United Kingdom and Albania, and new capacity commissioned in Italy. Helexia's production continues its rapid growth (+31%), in Europe and Brazil. Second-quarter 2025 turnover from Energy Sales reaches 81.7 million euros, down -13% (-7% at constant exchange rates). The capacity increase coupled with better resource levels in Brazil did not offset the cumulative unfavourable effects of (i) the price impact in France and Albania, in which Voltalia benefited in 2024 from the favourable effects of high prices on early production5, (ii) the EUR/BRL exchange rate and (iii) curtailment in Brazil. SERVICES6 In million euros Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Var. at current exchange rates Var. at constant exchange rates H1 2025 H1 2024 Var. at current exchange rates Var. at constant exchange rates Turnover from Development and Construction 57.8 32.3 +79% +79% 89.5 57.9 +55% +55% Turnover from Operation and Maintenance 8.1 6.6 +23% +26% 15.3 12.2 +26% +29% Total Turnover from Services 65.9 38.9 +69% +70% 104.8 70.1 +50% +50% First-half 2025 turnover from third-party Services reaches 104.8 million euros, up +50% (+50% at constant exchange rates). The Development and Construction segment grew by +55% to 89.5 million euros, and the Operation and Maintenance segment by +26% to 15.3 million euros. To be noted that in the first half of 2025, Voltalia initiated the winding down of its Equipment Procurement business segment. First-half 2025 turnover and second quarter 2025 turnover (as well as comparative periods) have been restated for the discontinued Equipment Procurement business segment7. Second quarter 2025 turnover from third-party Services reaches 65.9 million euros, up +69% (+70% at constant exchange rates). Third-party Development and Construction turnover reaches 57.8 million euros, up +79% (at current and constant exchange rates), boosted by the growth in third-party construction activity, which recorded a +65% turnover increase (at current and constant exchange rates). Projects currently under construction in Ireland, Spain and the United Kingdom collectively represent more than 800 MW. Operation-Maintenance turnover for third-party customers reaches 8.1 million euros, an uplift of +23% (+26% at constant exchange rates) compared with the second quarter of 2024. Capacity operated on behalf of third parties reached 7.7 GW (up +20%), thanks to new contracts particularly in Portugal and Brazil. RECENT ANNOUNCEMENTS Update on the Brazilian power grid Curtailment in Brazil during the first half of the year amounted to 268 GWh (i.e. 14% of Brazilian production and 10% of total production over the period). It was higher than the half-year estimates. During the presentation of its 2024 annual results, Voltalia stated that its 2025 operating targets included an assumption of 10% curtailment in 2025 in Brazil8 (compared with 21% in 2024). A Working Group (WG) set up by the Comite de Surveillance du Secteur Electrique (CMSE) to limit curtailments impact, is pursuing its actions. As a result, the ONS (Operateur National du Systeme Electrique) has enabled the transmission of a greater volume of energy. The aim is to exploit wind generation to a greater extent, thereby reducing curtailments and the use of thermal power plants. Voltalia remains confident of a favourable outcome, in the medium term, to the legal and contentious actions undertaken for compensation, however, given this evolving context, no compensation has been included for 2025. Update on the Cacao power plant On April 29, 2025, a sawmill adjacent to the Cacao biomass plant (Cacao Biomasse Energie) in French Guiana caught fire. Although the smoke detection and fire protection systems were functioning correctly, the fire severely damaged the sawing line (not owned by Voltalia S.A) and the two biomass feed conveyors. Following the incident, technical and industrial assessments have been carried out to precisely evaluate the options to limit the impact on plant operations. Based on these analyses, the plant is expected to be out of operation for an estimated six to twelve months, which could represent a potential loss of around 6 million euros in turnover by 2025, excluding recourse to third parties, including insurance companies, which are currently being analysed. SPRING TRANSFORMATION PLAN: UPDATE ON THE STRATEGIC BUSINESS REVIEW The diagnostic phase of the SPRING transformation plan, initiated at the beginning of 2025 by the new general management, was finalised in June, as previously announced9. An action plan is currently being drawn up, aimed at creating sustainable conditions for profitable growth in line with the company's mission. The conclusions of this initial phase will be presented at the time of the half-yearly results, along with the roadmap for implementing the diagnostic recommendations. Expected to have an initial impact as early as 2025, this roadmap will serve as a guide to ensure effective, structured implementation of the recommended actions. SPRING is thus a strategic lever for strengthening Voltalia's sustainable and profitable growth trajectory, based on a clearer organisation focused on value creation. 2025 OPERATIONAL TARGETS Voltalia confirms its operating targets for 2025: Approximately 3.6 gigawatts of capacity in operation and under construction (+10% compared with 2024), of which approximately 3 gigawatts in operation (+20%), with the majority commissioned by the end of 2025 Production of around 5.2 TWh (+10% compared with 2024), including a 10% curtailment assumption in Brazil (compared with 21% in 2024) UPCOMING EVENTS Half-Year Results 2025 and SPRING transformation plan presentation, on September 4, 2025 (before trading) followed by a 10am (CET) in-person event with live webcast PROSPECTIVE STATEMENTS This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts. These statements include projections and estimate and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations, services, product development and potential, and statements regarding future performance. These forward-looking statements may often be identified by the words "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "intend", "estimate" or "plan", as well as by other similar words. Although Voltalia's management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond Voltalia's control, that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainties inherent in the evolution of the selling price of electricity produced by Voltalia, the evolution of the regulatory environment in which Voltalia operates as well as the competitiveness of renewable energies and other factors that may affect the production capacity or profitability of Voltalia's production sites as well as those developed or identified in Voltalia's public filings with the Autorite des marches financiers including those listed in section 2.2 "Risk Factors" of Voltalia's 2024 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorite des marches financiers on April 2, 2025. Voltalia undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking information or statements, except as required by law. Capacity in operation as of June 30, 2025 In MW Wind Solar Biomass Hydro Hybrid June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 Albania 140 140 140 Belgium 23 23 21 Brazil 773 750 12 1,535 1,494 Egypt 32 32 32 France 81 260 5 346 341 French Guiana 14 7 5 23 48 49 Greece 20 20 17 Hungary 24 24 22 Italy 24 24 17 Jordan 57 57 57 Netherlands 60 60 60 Portugal 82 82 77 Romania 13 13 8 Spain 30 30 27 United Kingdom 57 32 89 89 Total 854 1,587 7 9 67 2,524 2,452 Capacity under construction as of June 30, 2025 Name of the project Capacity (MW) Technology Country Bolobedu 148 Solar South Africa Cafesoca 8 Hydro Brazil Clifton 45 Solar United Kingdom East gate 34 Solar United Kingdom Helexia 9 Solar Belgium Helexia 113 Solar Brazil Helexia 7 Solar Spain Helexia 22 Solar France Helexia 1 Solar Hungary Helexia 5 Solar Poland Helexia 1 Solar Portugal Higher Stockbridge 45 Solar United Kingdom Le Deffend 6 Solar France Los Venados 20 Solar Colombia Sarimay Solar 126 Solar Uzbekistan Seranon 8 Solar France Sinnamary (battery) 1 Storage French Guyana Sinnamary (SBE) 10 Biomass French Guyana Spitalla Solar 100 Solar Albania Terres Salees 11 Solar France Voltalia Mobility - Yusco 36 Solar France Total 755 Production as of June 30, 2025 In GWh Wind Solar Biomass Hydro Hybrid June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 Albania 132 132 136 Brazil 1,108 487 24 1,619 1,398 Egypt 39 39 38 France 74 41 2 118 140 French Guiana 6 10 16 25 Greece 13 13 15 Helexia Brazil 119 119 44 Helexia Europe 169 169 147 Italy 3 3 0 Jordan 65 65 65 Portugal 43 43 45 United Kingdom 37 37 30 Total 1,182 1,154 10 2 24 2,373 2,084 Quarterly production (Q2) 2025 In GWh Wind Solar Biomass Hydro Hybrid Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Albania 93 93 90 Brazil 557 235 13 804 690 Egypt 22 22 22 France 29 25 2 57 69 French Guiana 3 1 5 9 Greece 8 8 12 Helexia Brazil 57 57 24 Helexia Europe 114 114 107 Italy 2 2 0 Jordan 40 40 39 Portugal 29 29 28 United Kingdom 26 26 22 Total 586 654 1 2 13 1,257 1,111 About Voltalia (www.voltalia.com) Voltalia is an international player in renewable energies. The Group produces and sells electricity from its wind, solar, hydro, biomass and storage facilities. It has 3.3 GW of capacity in operation and under construction, and a portfolio of projects under development with a total capacity of 17.4 GW. Voltalia is also a service provider, supporting its renewable energy customers at every stage of their projects, from design to operation and maintenance. A pioneer in the business market, Voltalia offers a comprehensive range of services to businesses, from the supply of green electricity to energy efficiency services and the local production of its own electricity. With more than 2,000 employees in 20 countries on 3 continents, Voltalia has the capacity to act globally on behalf of its customers. Voltalia is listed on the Euronext regulated market in Paris (FR0011995588 - VLTSA) and is included in the Enternext Tech 40 and CAC Mid&Small indices. The company is also included, amongst others, in the MSCI ESG ratings and the Sustainalytics ratings. Voltalia Email: invest@voltalia.com T. +33 (0)1 81 70 37 00 Press Relations Seitosei.Actifin - Jennifer Jullia jennifer.jullia@seitosei-actifin.com T. +33 (0)1 56 88 11 19 1 Early generation: power sales in a short-term contract that precedes the entry into force of the long-term contract. In the case of Karavasta (Albania), the short-term contract was negotiated at a higher price than the long-term contract, such as Sud Vannier (France). 2 During the first half of 2025, Voltalia initiated the discontinuation of its Equipment Procurement business. At the end of June 2025, the criteria for qualification as a discontinued operation within the scope of IFRS 5 were fulfilled. Consequently, turnover for 2025 and 2024 have been restated for the Equipment Procurement business. 3 For a transmission system operator, curtailment implies limiting the transmission, for a given period, of all or part of a power plant's electrical production potential, to maintain the network's stability. 4 December 9, 2024 press release. 5 Early generation sales benefiting from electricity sales under a short-term contract that precedes the entry into force of the long-term contract. In the case of Karavasta, turnover in 2024 benefited from a short-term contract with a premium price over the first-half 2025 contract, which in turn benefits from a premium price over the terms of the long-term contract due to enter into force in the second half of 2025. 6 Services: Third-party services. 7 In accordance with IFRS 5. 8 March 13th, 2025 press release 9 March 13th, 2025 press release Attachment Calgary, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Litus, the critical mineral and battery metal company developing patented, ground-breaking technology to address some of the worlds biggest energy challenges, has just announced its lithium extraction pilot unit is now deployed in the field. This milestone represents a major leap in the scale-up of Litus LiNC, the companys patented, one-step, environmental nanotechnology solution for lithium extraction. The Litus LiNC pilot deployment follows the commissioning of Lituss in-house nanomaterial production facility in Calgary, capable of scaling 500 times per day, validated over a twenty-month period. Litus designed and built this facility to ensure access to its proprietary nanocomposite, optimized for each brine. We are confident in our technology and our unique ability to extract lithium, said Dr. Ghada Nafie, CEO and Co-Founder of Litus. This pilot represents a key validation step. With every successful scale-up, we move closer to commercial deployment and to redefining whats possible in lithium extraction. From the Lab to the Field: A Decade of Innovation Almost ten years ago, as the world was embracing the concept of an energy transition, researchers at the University of Calgary were laying the groundwork for the future of energy. At a time when electrification was still emerging and lithium prices were modest, Dr. Nafie, along with co-founders Dr. Pedro Pereira-Almao and Dr. Gerardo Vitale, were developing a nanotechnology solution that later would be used for more efficient and sustainable lithium extraction. Founded in 2019 and launched in 2021, Litus set out with a clear mission: to create a simple, one-step solution that could selectively extract lithium, preserve water resources, and minimize environmental impact. This vision resulted in the patented Litus LiNC, a groundbreaking direct lithium extraction (DLE) solution that has now successfully scaled from lab to field. As lithium prices surged due to rising energy transition targets and unprecedented demand from the automotive and clean tech sectors, many DLE companies emerged with promising lab concepts, but this technology failed to scale. Litus broke that trend. The companys team of world-class researchers and commercialization experts understood the challenge from the beginning: any viable solution had to be robust, scalable, cost-effective, and high-performing. Game-Changing Performance The Litus LiNC pilot unit is a plug-and-play modular system designed for easy integration into existing infrastructure. It requires minimal water and energy, operates with low environmental impact, and extracts lithium with up to 99.5% recovery rates and up to 99% rejection, in brines as low as 30 ppm, for lithium so pure it can easily be upgraded and send to battery manufacturers. This performance makes Litus LiNC uniquely effective in extracting lithium from oil and gas produced water and geothermal brines, in sources previously deemed uneconomical. As the system scales, it offers customers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to tap into new revenue streams, regardless of market conditions. Litus LiNC is profitable when lithium prices are low, and unstoppable when prices are high, said Dr. Nafie. Litus is more than a technology company its a bold vision for the future of clean energy. Built on a foundation of rigorous scientific research, real-world validation, and deep industry experience, Litus is committed to making energy more accessible, abundant, and environmentally responsible. The company has earned international recognition for its innovation, including Cleantech Groups 50 to Watch, Foresight 50, and presentations at ADIPEC, the Chile-Canada Mining Innovation Summit and COP 28. Litus is backed by strategic support from organizations including NRC-IRAP, MICA, Emissions Reduction Alberta, SDTC, Alberta Innovates, The Firehood, MaRS and Foresight. About Litus: Litus is a critical minerals and battery metals company developing patented nanotechnology solutions to meet global energy demands. Its flagship product, Litus LiNC, is a patented, one-step lithium extraction system that economically harvests lithium from low-concentration brines. With operations in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, Litus is accelerating the transition to clean, secure energy systems. Media contact: Dalyce Semko 403-869-3259 d.semko@open2america.com Attachments CHICAGO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- YMCA of the USA (Y-USA), the national resource office for the nearly 2,600 Ys across the country, will welcome Greg Waibel as its new Chief Operating Officer next month. In this role, Waibel will oversee Y-USAs finance, technology and human resources functions, and the network of staff and partners responsible for providing services and support to YMCAs. Waibel joins Y-USA after four-and-a-half years as President and CEO of the YMCA of Honolulu, where he led the organization through a period of recovery and then significant growth following the COVID-19 pandemic. He previously spent 15 years with the YMCA association now known as YMCA of the North in Minnesota, concluding his tenure as COO after also serving as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Operations. Before starting his career in the Y, Waibel spent 13 years in the private sector in various leadership roles, including four years leading South American operations for an international company specializing in environmentally sustainable products. Greg is a proven and respected leader in the YMCA Movement. He brings to Y-USA strong financial acumen, extensive and diverse operations experience and a deep commitment to the Ys mission and values, said Suzanne McCormick, Y-USA President and CEO. He is a smart, thoughtful and empathetic leader, and I know he will be a great addition to our team. Waibel earned a masters degree in business administration from the University of Minnesotas Carlson School of Management, and a bachelors degree in accounting from the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. About the Y Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where theyre from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Ys goal is to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across 10,000 communities nationwide. Learn more at ymca.org. Contact: YMCA of the USA 312-419-8418 media@ymca.net Southfield, Michigan, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sun Communities, Inc. (NYSE: SUI) (Sun or the Company), a real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns and operates, or has an interest in, manufactured housing ("MH") and recreational vehicle ("RV") communities (collectively, the "properties"), today announced that its Board of Directors (the Board) has appointed Charles D. Young as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 1, 2025. Mr. Young, who will also join the Companys Board of Directors, succeeds Gary A. Shiffman, who previously announced his planned retirement from the role of CEO after a distinguished 40 years leading Sun. Mr. Young is a seasoned senior real estate and investment executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in real estate operations, development, and investment management. Since March 2023, he has served as President of Invitation Homes Inc., the nations premier single-family home leasing and management company. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of Invitation Homes, as well as in senior roles at Starwood Waypoint Homes and Mesa Development. Earlier in his career, he worked at Goldman Sachs in real estate principal investment and M&A. Mr. Young holds a BA in Economics and an MBA from Stanford Universitys Graduate School of Business. He is on the Board of Directors of Floor & Decor (NYSE: FND) and serves on the Stanford University Board of Trustees. As part of our planned management succession, we conducted a rigorous and thoughtful selection process, and Charles is highly qualified to be Sun Communities new CEO, said Tonya Allen, co-Chair of the Boards CEO Succession Planning Committee. Charles brings a deep understanding of real estate operations, strategy, and leadership. His track record of success across both public and private platforms makes him uniquely positioned to lead Sun through its next phase of growth. Meghan Baivier, Sun Communities Lead Independent Director, said, On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Shiffman for his dedication leading Sun for over 40 years. Under his guidance, Sun Communities has grown into a leading MH and RV platform, positioning the Company for continued success as it enters this next chapter. Mr. Shiffman will serve as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board effective October 1, 2025. Gary A. Shiffman, Chairman and CEO of Sun Communities said, I am very proud of what we accomplished building and leading Sun, and I am confident we are well-positioned to continue to execute on our strategic priorities. I am incredibly excited to welcome Charles to Sun as our CEO to take our vision forward, and I look forward to a smooth transition and supporting the Company and our team members. Mr. Young added, I am honored to join Sun Communities as CEO and member of its Board of Directors, where I will partner with the talented professionals who have built the Company into an industry leader with a preeminent MH and RV portfolio. I look forward to building on the strong foundation established by Gary and the team while delivering long-term value for shareholders, residents, and team members. Under Mr. Shiffmans leadership, Sun Communities executed its initial public offering (IPO) in 1993 and has since achieved significant growth while driving substantial shareholder value. During his tenure as CEO, the Company: Grew to a market capitalization of over $16.5 billion from its approximately $100 million IPO; Expanded its 31-property portfolio into a leading owner and operator of more than 500 MH and RV communities across North America and the United Kingdom; Delivered a total return of over 4,100% from its 1993 IPO through June 30, 2025, including an over 150% total return for the ten years ended June 30, 2025; and Generated Same Property average annual NOI growth of 5.3% for the past 25 years without a negative year-over-year Same Property NOI quarterly performance. About Sun Communities, Inc. Sun Communities, Inc. is a REIT that, as of March 31, 2025, owned, operated, or had an interest in a portfolio of 502 developed properties comprising approximately 174,850 developed sites in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains various "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and the Company intends that such forward-looking statements will be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. For this purpose, any statements contained in this press release that relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, trends or prospective events or developments and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts are deemed to be forward-looking statements. Words such as forecasts, intend, goal, estimate, expect, project, projections, plans, predicts, potential, seeks, anticipates, should, could, may, will, designed to, foreseeable future, believe, scheduled, "guidance", "target" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward looking statements contain these words. These forward-looking statements reflect the Companys current views with respect to future events and financial performance, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, both general and specific to the matters discussed in or incorporated herein, some of which are beyond the Companys control. These risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the Companys actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Details of potential risks that may affect the Company are described in the Companys periodic reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the Risk Factors section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statement was made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements included or incorporated by reference into this document, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in the Company's expectations or otherwise, except as required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on the Company's behalf are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. For Further Information at the Company: Fernando Castro-Caratini Chief Financial Officer (248) 208-2500 www.suninc.com Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q2 Metals Corp. (TSX.V: QTWO | OTCQB: QUEXF | FSE: 458) (Q2 or the Company) announces today that it has entered into an agreement pursuant to which Canaccord Genuity Corp., as sole agent (the Agent), in connection with a best efforts private placement of 20,000,000 common shares of the Company that qualify as flow-through shares (within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Tax (as defined below) (the FT Shares) at a price of $1.00 per FT Share (the Offering Price), for gross proceeds of up to $20,000,000 (the Offering). In addition, the Company will grant the Agent an option to sell up to an additional 5,000,000 FT Shares at the Offering Price to raise additional gross proceeds of up to $5,000,000 (the Agents Option) on the same terms and conditions as set out herein. The Agents Option is exercisable in whole or in part at any time, up to the closing date. The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Shares, pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Tax Act), to incur (or be deemed to incur) eligible Canadian exploration expenses that qualify as flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures (as both terms are defined in the Tax Act) (the Qualifying Expenditures) related to the Companys projects in Quebec, on or before December 31, 2026, and to renounce all the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares effective December 31, 2025. In the event the Company is unable to renounce Qualifying Expenditures effective on or prior to December 31, 2025 to the subscribers for the FT Shares purchased in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the FT Shares and/or the Qualifying Expenditures are otherwise reduced by the Canada Revenue Agency, the Company will indemnify each FT Share subscriber for any additional taxes payable by such subscriber as a result of the Companys failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures or or as a result of the reduction, as agreed. The Offering is expected to close on or about August 14, 2025, or such other date as the Company and the Agent may agree and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals including the conditional approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions (NI 45-106), the FT Shares will be offered for sale to purchasers resident in Canada and/or other qualifying jurisdictions pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106 (the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption). The securities issued to Canadian resident subscribers in the Offering will not be subject to a hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at www.q2metals.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. persons unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. United States and U.S. person have the meaning ascribed to them in Regulation S under the 1933 Act. ABOUT Q2 METALS CORP. Q2 Metals is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the Cisco Lithium Project located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee, James Bay, Quebec, Canada. The Cisco Project is comprised of 801 claims, totaling 41,253 hectares, with the main mineralized zone just 6.5 km from the Billy Diamond Highway, which transects the Project. The Town of Matagami, rail head of the Canadian National Railway, is approximately 150 km to the south. The Cisco Project has district-scale potential with an initial Exploration Target estimating a range of potential lithium mineralization and grade of 215 to 329 Mt at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38% Li 2 O, based only on the first 40 holes drilled to date. Drill testing continues with mineralization open at depth and along strike with potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Mineralized Zone. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025 as the Company works towards a maiden resource estimate. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Alicia Milne Jason McBride Chris Ackerman President & CEO Investor Relations Manager Corporate Development Alicia@Q2metals.com Jason@Q2metals.com Chris@Q2metals.com Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560 E-mail: info@Q2metals.com WWW.Q2Metals.com Follow the Company: Twitter , LinkedIn , Facebook , and Instagram Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believes, expects, anticipates, intends, estimates, plans, may, should, would, will, potential, scheduled or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Companys properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to closing of the Offering, use of proceeds of the Offering, tax treatment of the FT Shares, the Companys proposed summer exploration and drill programs, drilling results on the Cisco Project and inferences made therefrom, the preparation of an exploration target on the Cisco Project, the potential scale of the Cisco Project, the focus of the Companys current and future exploration and drill programs, the scale, scope and location of future exploration and drilling activities. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, reallocation of proposed use of funds, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled Risk Factors in the Companys Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedarplus.com . Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law. Neil McCallum, B.Sc., P.Geol., a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCallum is a director and the Vice President Exploration for Q2 Metals. 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. Investors can contact the law firm at no cost to learn more about recovering their losses LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC ("Reckitt Benckiser" or the "Company") (OTC: RBGLY) investors of a class action representing investors that bought securities between January 13, 2021 and July 28, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Reckitt Benckiser investors have until August 4, 2025 to file a lead plaintiff motion. Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portnoy, by phone 310-692-8883 or email: lesley@portnoylaw.com, to discuss their legal rights, or click here to join the case. The Portnoy Law Firm can provide a complimentary case evaluation and discuss investors options for pursuing claims to recover their losses. CASE ALLEGATIONS: Reckitt Benckiser is a U.K.-based global consumer goods company. In 2017, the company acquired Mead Johnson Nutrition for $19.7 billion. According to the class action lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) preterm infants faced an increased risk of developing Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) from consuming Reckitt Benckisers cows milk-based infant formula, Enfamil; and (ii) the company failed to adequately warn consumers and investors of the associated health risks, potential impact on Enfamil sales, and the companys legal exposure. The Complaint further alleges that on March 15, 2024, a jury in Watson v. Mead Johnson Co., Docket No. 21-L-1032 (Ill. Cir. Ct.), returned a $60 million verdict against Mead Johnson. The jury found the company negligent for failing to warn a mother about the risk of NEC from cows milk-based formula. Following the verdict, Reckitt Benckisers American Depositary Shares (ADSs) dropped nearly 14%. Then, on July 29, 2024, in a related case (Gill v. Abbott Laboratories, Inc., Docket No. 2322-CC1251, Mo. Cir. Ct.), a Missouri jury awarded $495 million in damages over NEC caused by a competing formula for premature infants. On this news, Reckitt Benckisers ADSs fell nearly 9%, according to the Complaint. Please visit our website to review more information and submit your transaction information. The Portnoy Law Firm represents investors in pursuing claims against caused by corporate wrongdoing. The Firms founding partner has recovered over $5.5 billion for aggrieved investors. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Lesley F. Portnoy, Esq. Admitted CA and NY Bar lesley@portnoylaw.com 310-692-8883 www.portnoylaw.com Attorney Advertising ROCKVILLE, MD, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UgenticAI, an AI holding company, has closed $4 million in funding to expand its growing portfolio of agentic AI companies, businesses that use AI to autonomously execute complex business functions such as sales, content creation, and customer support. With four acquisitions already completed and multiple additional deals in progress, UgenticAI is focused on building an AI ecosystem designed for real business impact, not just automation for its own sake. The companys mission is distinct: identify or develop agentic AI companies, not just tools, and bring them under one umbrella to scale. Agentic AI refers to systems that can act independently, make decisions, and complete workflows with minimal human oversight. This differs from traditional AI applications, which often require user prompting and manual oversight to function effectively. Filling a Critical Gap in AI Adoption While artificial intelligence continues to dominate headlines, a significant portion of the market remains underserved. According to UgenticAIs analysis of data from Gartner and McKinsey, there are over 450 million small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) worldwide, and 76% of them still havent meaningfully adopted AI tools. Thats even though global SMB software spend has surpassed $1.6 trillion and continues to grow. Most AI startups are not solving full business problems; theyre building features. We believe the real opportunity lies in building or acquiring agentic AI companies that serve entire business functions, said Anik Singal, CEO of UgenticAI. The reality is stark: nearly 90% of AI startups fail, often because they lack distribution, a viable business model, or dont go beyond single-use capabilities. UgenticAIs strategy is to change that narrative by acquiring companies with established traction or building new ones from scratch, always with a focus on delivering tangible results to businesses. A Holding Company Model for the Agentic AI Era UgenticAI operates as a holding company, meaning it doesnt just invest in AI; it owns and operates a portfolio of AI-driven businesses. This structure enables centralized resources, shared infrastructure, and unified strategic direction, while allowing each subsidiary to grow independently. The company currently has four companies under its umbrella, with two more software launches in development. Each entity focuses on a specific function, such as automating outreach for sales teams or deploying autonomous chat solutions for customer support. These are not experimental concepts but operational businesses with growing customer bases and measurable impact. By integrating these companies, UgenticAI aims to offer SMBs a full-stack suite of agentic AI services that can operate cohesively saving time, reducing labor costs, and enabling scalability. Investment Through Diversification Rather than backing a single AI idea, UgenticAI offers accredited investors access to a broader portfolio, effectively spreading risk across multiple ventures. This approach mirrors traditional investment models in real estate or venture capital, but with a focused theme: operational AI companies. The $4 million raised to date has enabled acquisitions, team expansion, and infrastructure development. The company reports that three additional deals are in negotiation, signaling further portfolio expansion in 2025. An IPO target of $350 million within 2.5 years is in motion, with a longer-term vision of building a $3 billion-plus AI conglomerate. Educating the Market on Agentic AI A key part of UgenticAIs mission is to shift how businesses, particularly SMBs, understand and adopt AI. While many AI tools on the market serve as assistants or single-task enhancers, agentic AI solutions go further. They are built to replace full-time roles with autonomous software agents that learn, adapt, and act without constant oversight. This form of AI, while still emerging, is quickly gaining traction as businesses face rising labor costs, scaling challenges, and increasing pressure to do more with less. Agentic AI isnt about eliminating jobs for the sake of it, Singal emphasized. Its about enabling businesses to do things they simply couldnt afford or scale before. By focusing on usability, accessibility, and direct business value, UgenticAIs portfolio companies are designed specifically for the needs of SMBs, a demographic often left behind in major tech shifts. Further details about UgenticAI and its development roadmap are available at https://ugenticai.com. About UgenticAI UgenticAI is a Maryland-based holding company focused on acquiring and launching agentic AI companies. Its portfolio-driven approach enables small and medium-sized businesses to access scalable AI solutions that replace core business functions, not just assist with tasks. Backed by $4M in funding, the company is actively building toward a $350M IPO, offering accredited investors diversified exposure to operational AI ventures. Media Contact Company Name: UgenticAI Contact Person: Anik Singal Email: anik@ugenticai.com Phone: 240-200-4222 Country: United States Website: https://ugenticai.com Vancouver, July 22, 2025 - VanadiumCorp Resource Inc. (TSX-V: VRB) (FSE: NWNA) (OTC: VRBFF) ("VanadiumCorp" or the "Company") announces the appointment of Dr. James Tansey to the Board of Directors, effective July 21, 2025. Dr. Tansey brings extensive experience in impact investing, and his appointment aligns with VanadiumCorp's strategic focus on critical metals, sustainable mining and renewable energy. Dr. Tansey currently serves as the founding CEO of Carbon Done Right Developments Inc. and was previously the founder and CEO of NatureBank Asset Management, where he led landmark carbon credit initiatives including the Great Bear Rainforest project and the first carbon-neutral Olympic Games (Vancouver 2010). His expertise aligns directly with VanadiumCorp's commitment to low-carbon operations and renewable energy. In addition to his leadership in carbon markets, Dr. Tansey has played a pivotal role in advancing critical mineral technologies. As a founding advisor to Syniad Innovations, he has supported the commercialization of low-energy nickel extraction and advanced materials-key technologies for the clean energy transition and sustainable mining. Dr. Tansey's extensive experience in ESG governance and policy includes service on the BC Clean Energy Advisory Task Force, the Federal Social Finance Committee, and advisory roles with the United Nations Environment Programme. His insights into Indigenous partnerships, sustainable finance, and stakeholder engagement will further strengthen VanadiumCorp's board oversight. "Dr. Tansey's expertise will be instrumental as we move forward. We are confident that his insights will strengthen our Board and support our long-term vision." said Kristien Davenport, CEO and President of VanadiumCorp. The company also announces the resignation of Mr. Brian Gusko from the Board of Directors, effective July 16, 2025. The Company thanks Mr. Gusko for his contributions and wishes him well in his future endeavors. About VanadiumCorp Resource Inc. VanadiumCorp is a Canadian Critical metals exploration company owning 100% of two strategic properties in Quebec: The Iron T and the flagship Lac Dore property. The company is advancing innovative technologies to extract vanadium-titanium and potentially high-grade iron from its vanadiferous titanomagnetite projects. The successful implementation of these technologies is expected to ensure a stable, long-term supply of the company's critical metal deposits, which include vanadium feedstock for electrolyte production. Our initial electrolyte facility, located in Val-des-Sources, Quebec, will serve a dual purpose: evaluating the quality of the outputs and facilitating the initial production of electrolytes. Furthermore, the company intends to expand its production of electrolytes for the international market, specifically for long-duration Vanadium Flow Batteries (VRBs). On behalf of the Board of VanadiumCorp Resource Inc. "Kristien Davenport" President, CEO and Director VANADIUMCORP RESOURCES INC. For more information, please visit the company website www.vanadiumcorp.com Email: info@vanadiumcorp.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This document may contain forward-looking statements (including "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) regarding, among other things, VanadiumCorp's business. and the environment in which it operates. In general, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipates", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "forecast", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "could" or "will be taken", "occur" or "will be achieved". VanadiumCorp relies on a number of assumptions and estimates to make these forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, the ability to acquire the necessary permits and authorizations to advance the Lac Dore property to the production stage, the ability to add to existing resources at Lac Dore through drilling, the costs associated with the development and operation of its properties. These assumptions and estimates are made in light of forecasts and conditions that are considered relevant and reasonable based on available information and current circumstances. A number of risk factors may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or results of such exploration and/or mine development to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, whether such discoveries will result in commercially viable quantities of such mineralized materials, the ability to modify project parameters as plans continue to be refined, the ability to execute planned future exploration and drilling programs, the need for additional financing to continue exploration and development efforts, changes in general economic, market and business conditions, and other risks outlined in VanadiumCorp's latest Annual Information Form under the heading "Risk Factors" and in its other public documents. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and such information is inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are difficult to predict and that may be beyond VanadiumCorp's control. Although VanadiumCorp has attempted to identify important risks and factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors and risks that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. In addition, all forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. VanadiumCorp 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 securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this disclaimer. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. Newlox Gold Ventures Corp. (the "Corporation") is pleased to announce that it intends to raise gross proceeds of up to $2,000,000 through a non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") of up to 28,571,429 units (the "Units") of the Corporation at a price of $0.07 per Unit. Each Unit shall consist of one common share ("Share") in the capital of the Corporation and one common share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company (each a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.12 per Warrant Share for a period of 36 months following the date of issuance. The Corporation is also pleased to announce that three (3) insiders intend to participate in the Private Placement in the aggregate amount of $585,000. The insiders that will be participating are: Mr. Dent for $140,000, Mr. Benevides for $420,000 and Mr. MacKay for $25,000. Any participation by insiders in the Private Placement will constitute a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Corporation expects such participation will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the Units subscribed for by the insiders, nor the consideration for the Units paid by such insiders, is expected to exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to fund the Corporation's current operations in Costa Rica and for general working capital. The non-brokered private placement is subject to all necessary regulatory approvals. The securities being issued in the private placement will be subject to a four-month hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. About Newlox Gold Ventures Corp. Newlox Gold Ventures Corp. is an emerging precious metals producer dedicated to the recovery of gold and silver from artisanal and small-scale mining operations across Latin America. The Company leverages technology to recover precious metals while remediating historical mine waste and contributing to local economic development. For further details, please contact: info@newloxgold.com 647.848.5843 Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release). Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "anticipated", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Newlox is subject to significant risks and uncertainties 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 statements contained in this release. Newlox cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements and Newlox assumes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect actual events or new circumstances. VANCOUVER, July 23, 2025 - Aventis Energy ("Aventis" or the "Company") (CSE: AVE | FRA: C0O0 | OTC: VBAMF) is pleased to provide a summary of results from an airborne Time Domain Electromagnetic ("TDEM") survey (the "Program") completed on its 12,265-hectare Corvo Uranium Project ("Corvo", or the "Project") earlier this year. Highlights: Refined EM Conductors: The modern TDEM dataset confirms and improves previously defined EM conductors on the Project, outlining 29 kilometres of prospective exploration strike length across the Project. Multiple high-priority target areas along the conductors have been identified based on overlapping historical geochemical surveys, sampling, and existing drill hole uranium intercepts. Integrated Target Development: The results of the recent airborne TDEM survey are currently undergoing further digital processing and modeling to prioritize target areas for inaugural drilling in 2026. Maiden Drill Program: A diamond drill program is being planned for Q1 2026 to begin testing targets developed and ranked through the detailed exploration and geophysical programs executed in 2025. Mandeep Parmar, Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company, commented, "Confirming conductive corridors at Corvo represents a crucial initial step at the Project, and we anticipate further findings in the coming months to further our understanding of the Project. Additionally, we eagerly await results from prospecting assays as we work towards completing the first NI 43-101 report on the Project. Following the receipt of our prospecting assays, we will look to prepare for the next phase of geophysical surveys aimed at identifying targets for the 2026 drilling program." Figure 1. Regional map of the Project. The Project is located 45 km northeast of Atha Energy's Gemini Mineralized Zone ("GMZ") and 60 km due east of Cameco's McArthur River mine. Corvo - 2025 Exploration Summary From February 22 to March 16, 2025, the Company contracted Axiom Exploration Group Ltd. in partnership with New Resolution Geophysics to carry out a helicopter-borne Xcite TDEM and total field magnetic survey over the 12,265-hectare Corvo Project. The survey covered all 13 mineral claims of the Project, totalling 1,670.5 line-kms with a traverse line spacing of 100 m and tie-line spacing of 1,000 m over a ~122.65 km2 area. The helicopter-assisted survey was flown using the 30Hz Xcite TDEM system that simultaneously collects time domain electromagnetic, and magnetic data. The extensive survey was aimed to detect, locate, and characterize anomalous conductive and magnetic responses across the Project to aid in future exploration drill hole targeting. The survey was completed on schedule, on budget, and successfully gathered high-resolution data to depth that will be key to identifying exploration targets under glacial cover through the delineation of conductive trends possibly related to packages of graphite and/or sulphide-bearing metasedimentary rocks commonly associated with uranium mineralization. Subsequent inversion, interpretation, and modeling of the recently acquired data in 3D software will allow the Company to prioritize newly identified exploration targets for follow-up diamond drilling programs. The survey results confirm and improve upon the previously defined conductive corridors on the Project that overlap with historical geophysical and geochemical anomalies, in addition to drill holes with known uranium intercepts. The magnetic survey component of the TDEM survey contributes to definition of potential fault systems and structural trends not previously identified across the Project. Supplementary geophysical surveys are being designed to further refine drill targets for an inaugural drill program. The Company plans to complete a high-resolution ground gravity survey across the main conductive trends on the Project, aiming to identify potential hydrothermal alteration halos which could be related to basement-hosted uranium mineralization. From July 4 to July 16, 2025, the Company completed a detailed mapping, prospecting, and sampling program to ground-truth historical uranium showings at surface. Collected grab samples have been transported to Saskatchewan Research Council Geoanalytical Laboratories in Saskatoon, SK for geochemical analysis. Results will be released and incorporated into the first NI 43-101 technical report on the Project. The Company believes the Project is highly prospective for the discovery of shallow, high-grade basement-hosted uranium mineralization akin to the Rabbit Lake deposit and the recently discovered Gemini Mineralized Zone. Located just outside the current margin of the Athabasca Basin, Corvo boasts shallow drill targets with bedrock under minimal cover of glacial till. Several outcrop showings of mineralized veins and fractures are present on the Project, notably the Manhattan Showing that returned historical sample results up to 59,800 ppm U at surface1 and has never been drill tested. Figure 2. Summary map showing modern TDEM conductor traces on the Project with Reduced to Pole (RTP) Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) in the background. *The Company considers uranium mineralization with concentrations greater than 1.0 wt% U 3 O 8 to be "high-grade". **The Company considers radioactivity readings greater than 300 counts per second (cps) to be "anomalous". Qualified Person Statement The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed, verified, and approved by Sean Hillacre, P.Geo., President and VP Exploration of Standard Uranium and a "qualified person" as defined in NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure in Mineral Projects. Historical data disclosed in this news release relating to sampling results from previous operators are historical in nature. Neither the Company nor a qualified person has yet verified this data and therefore investors should not place undue reliance on such data. The Company's future exploration work may include verification of the data. The Company considers historical results to be relevant as an exploration guide and to assess the mineralization as well as economic potential of exploration projects. Any historical grab samples disclosed are selected samples and may not represent true underlying mineralization. References 1 SMDI# 2052: https://mineraldeposits.saskatchewan.ca/Home/Viewdetails/2052 & Mineral Assessment Report MAW00047: Eagle Plains Resources Inc., 2011-2012 On Behalf of the Board of Directors Mandeep Parmar Interim Chief Executive Officer, Director +1 (604) 229-9772 info@vitalbatterymetals.com Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of Aventis, future growth potential for Aventis and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of uranium, copper, gold and other metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; Aventis' ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the Canadian securities laws. Statements, other than statements of historical fact, may constitute forward looking information and include, without limitation, statements with respect to the Project and its mineralization potential; the Company's objectives, goals, or future plans with respect to the Project; statements with respect to the Program; and the Company's anticipated exploration program at the Project. With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions regarding, among other things, the geological, metallurgical, engineering, financial and economic advice that the Company has received is reliable and are based upon practices and methodologies which are consistent with industry standards. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. Known risk factors include, among others: fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of well results and the geology, continuity and grade of uranium, copper, gold and other metal deposits; uncertainty of estimates of capital and operating costs, recovery rates, production estimates and estimated economic return; the need for cooperation of government agencies in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs or in construction projects and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; increased costs and restrictions on operations due to compliance with environmental and other requirements; increased costs affecting the metals industry and increased competition in the metals industry for properties, qualified personnel, and management. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Photos accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca3617b9-5e26-4d70-998e-a4b3382e727c https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/048fdd92-c27a-48d9-9ffd-4a3bcfa85267 Vancouver, July 23, 2025 - Belmont Resources Inc. (TSX.V: BEA; FSE: L3L2) ("Belmont" or the "Company") announces the appointment of Patrick Brandl as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2025. Mr. Brandl will succeed George Sookochoff, who has stepped down from his executive role to pursue other professional opportunities. Mr. Sookochoff will continue to serve as a member of Belmont's Board of Directors, ensuring continuity during the leadership transition. Mr. Brandl has been a Director of Belmont Resources since 2023 and brings over a decade of experience in corporate governance, project oversight, and strategic development within the resource sector. He also represents HMS Bergbau AG, a global commodities firm and recent major shareholder of Belmont, signaling a closer alignment between the Company's leadership and its long-term financial and strategic partners. This appointment supports Belmont's ongoing commitment to advancing its key exploration projects, strengthening its capital position, and creating long-term value for shareholders. Mr. Brandl will serve in the interim capacity while the Board undertakes a formal search for a permanent President and CEO. About Belmont Belmont has assembled a portfolio of highly prospective copper, gold, lithium, uranium and rare earths projects located in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Washington and Nevada States. Flagship projects: Come By Chance (CBC) Property: A 2,000 meter drilling program was recently completed. Core logging is ongoing with drill samples being sent to the analytical laboratory on a regular basis. Athelstan-Jackpot (A-J) Gold - British Columbia: A-J Gold Project, which includes two past producing gold mines-Athelstan and Jackpot-that yielded 7,600 ounces of gold and 9,000 ounces of silver (Minfile 082ESE047). Key highlights of the project include: Extensive Surface Gold Mineralization: A 1,500-meter gold trend with widespread surface gold mineralization has been identified. Exploration Focus: Belmont is investigating the potential for economic gold grades in mineable surface and near-surface ore zones along this trend. Crackingstone Uranium -Located in Saskatchewan's uranium-rich Athabasca Basin. Exceptional High-Grade Uranium Potential: The property has demonstrated historic grab sample grades of up to 15.6% U?O?. Previous mining on the site produced 11 tons at an average grade of 2.3% U?O?. (A Qualifying 43-101 Report On the Crackingstone River-Ruza Property Beaverlodge District SE of Uranium City Saskatchewan for Belmont Resources Inc. By R.A. Bernatchez, P. Eng. Consulting Geologist, July 11, 2006) Extensive Mineralized Corridors: Three major conductive and structural mineralized corridors, totaling 10 kilometers in length, have been identified and are associated with high-grade uranium occurrences. Comprehensive Drilling Program: Belmont has submitted a permit application for a two-year drilling initiative, which includes 40 drill holes totaling 10,000 meters. This program reflects the company's confidence in the property's potential to host significant uranium resources. Situated just six kilometers from Uranium City, the Crackingstone property benefits from excellent infrastructure, including road access, power availability, and logistical support. Belmont's exploration efforts also include evaluating rare earth element (REE) potential on the property, further enhancing its strategic importance. Our Option Partner: Lone Star Copper-Gold - Washington State: 50% optioned to Australian Marquee Resources ASX:MQR; MQR has spent $2.5M in drilling, completed new resource in Dec. 2022 and a PEA in November 2023. (BEA NR Nov. 29, 2023) Kibby Basin Lithium - Nevada State: 80% optioned to Australian Marquee Resources ASX: MQR; project located 60 kilometers north of the lithium rich Clayton Valley Basin. MQR has spent $2.5M in drilling in 2022 for potential deep seated lithium brine. 2022 Drilling confirmed high levels of lithium-bearing sediments along with dissolved lithium in the groundwater. (BEA NR Dec 8, 2022). NI 43-101 Disclosure: Mr. Laurence Sookochoff, P.Eng., independent consultant for Belmont Resources Inc., is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content in this news release. On Behalf of the Board "George Sookochoff" George Sookochoff, President/CEO george@belmontresources.com C: 604-505-4061 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This Press Release may contain forward-looking statements that may involve a number of risks and uncertainties, based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of exploration and other risk factors beyond its control. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Companies forward-looking statements and expectations. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that we may not be able to obtain regulatory approval; that we may not be able to raise funds required, that conditions to closing may not be fulfilled and we may not be able to organize and carry out an exploration program in 2025, and other risks associated with being a mineral exploration and development company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results differed from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. Barcelona closes in on post-2026 F1 future Barcelona has taken a key step towards securing its place on the Formula 1 calendar beyond 2026, as Madrid prepares to take over the title of Spanish Grand Prix from next year. Lando Norris, Spanish GP 2025 McLaren The Catalan Government confirmed on Tuesday that it has formally authorised Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya's operators to intensify negotiations with Formula One Management, with economic minister Miquel Samper and circuit boss Josep Lluis Santamaria set to lead the talks. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has repeatedly said two races in Spain are possible, and Barcelona is pushing for a long-term deal under the rebranded title of the Barcelona-Catalunya GP from 2026 onwards. With Madrid locked in to host the Spanish GP from 2026 to 2035, the Montmelo round would be held in June, with both events expected to coexist on the record 24-race calendar. We have been working for some time to ensure that Formula 1 continues to be held in Catalonia, said Catalan president Salvador Illa, who visited the paddock during the 2025 Spanish GP. It's an event that allows us to showcase the best of Catalonia and brings prosperity and wealth to our homeland. Barcelona's case is strengthened by recent circuit upgrades totalling more than 50 million euros, and by the appointment of Fernando Alonso as an official ambassador. The government and circuit operator Fira Circuit, which took over day-to-day management in 2024, are seeking a 10-year extension with FOM. Samper has said all scenarios remain on the table, including possible rotation with other F1 venues, but the preferred outcome is a permanent renewal. There is no urgency, he said earlier. It's better to work quietly, with maximum discretion, to achieve the best possible agreement. (GMM) Mekies may keep Verstappen at Red Bull says Ralf Ralf Schumacher believes Red Bull's shock leadership shake-up has significantly improved the chances of Max Verstappen staying with the team beyond 2025. Max Verstappen, British GP 2025 Red Bull Speaking on Sky Deutschland's Backstage Boxengasse, Schumacher praised Red Bull's new direction following Christian Horner's abrupt sacking and the installation of Laurent Mekies as team principal. Red Bull made a brilliant move putting Mekies in charge, said Schumacher. It brought something to the team. In a short time, the mood changed a lot, the approach became completely different. Schumacher has been one of Horner's most vocal critics throughout the team's recent internal turbulence, which coincided with growing speculation Verstappen could jump ship to Mercedes. But he now sees a 180-degree shift. I think the summer break will be used to weigh the options: is it Red Bull, or is Mercedes the better option under the new regulations? Max, his father, and his manager will sit down in classic style and decide. He also suggested that with Horner gone, Red Bull may finally be able to recruit high-level technical staff who had previously avoided working under the former boss. That was a problem before. With Horner at the helm, a number of established Formula 1 names didn't want to participate, Schumacher said. He believes Verstappen could be persuaded to stay if Red Bull can demonstrate a clear technical plan for 2026. If there's a list that can be presented to Max - 'this is where we're going, it'll take a year' - then I can definitely see him staying. It's like Alonso with the Newey-Honda project. The former Williams driver also pointed out that Verstappen has never raced for another F1 team and remains emotionally tied to Red Bull. He owes everything to Red Bull. If everything is good here, why leave? Meanwhile, rumours continue to swirl about Mercedes, with Verstappen allegedly meeting Toto Wolff during the summer and George Russell potentially making way. I can't see Russell being Max's first choice as a team-mate, Schumacher added. Russell, however, shrugged off the speculation: I have thick skin, and quite honestly, I don't care what's written or what rumours are being spread. I prefer to concentrate on my work. (GMM) Vettel cool on FIA presidency talk, weighing post-F1 future Sebastian Vettel says it would be "unprofessional" to commit to the idea of becoming FIA president, despite Ross Brawn previously tipping the retired four-time world champion as a future candidate. Sebastian Vettel, French GP 2022 Aston Martin Racing I don't know enough about the responsibilities of an FIA president, Vettel told Auto Motor und Sport. "From a Formula 1 perspective, you only get to see part of it. I have a little understanding, but not enough to assess it. It would be unprofessional to say now: yes, I can imagine that. The 38-year-old has already ruled out returning to F1 as a driver, but continues to leave the door open for a Le Mans or WEC campaign. What I really miss is the competition, those intense moments where important decisions have to be made, he said. But that doesn't mean I'll never drive anything again. Vettel remains in contact with Red Bull and did not deny interest in the possibility of eventually replacing Dr Helmut Marko as advisor. I know Helmut very well, and we're in contact, he said. If that were to become more concrete, I would first have to realise what kind of task I would be facing. A decision would depend heavily on that. He also sees value in mentoring young drivers, much like Mark Webber's role with Oscar Piastri. As a young talent, it can be extremely valuable to have someone who helps - not with braking points, but on the mental side, Vettel explained. You can't mould a driver into the next Hamilton or Schumacher. It's more about perceiving the person and helping develop their own strengths. (GMM) Zandvoort denies track damage ahead of Dutch GP Dutch Grand Prix organisers have dismissed reports that the Zandvoort Formula 1 circuit was damaged by severe flooding this week. Charles Leclerc, Dutch GP 2024 Ferrari On Monday, torrential rain hit the town of Zandvoort, with water levels reaching up to 50 centimetres in some areas. Images quickly circulated online showing flooded access roads and water accumulating near the banked final corner, prompting concerns about the circuit's readiness for the race scheduled at the end of August. However, circuit management has now issued a strong denial. Yesterday's heavy rain sparked some fake news about damage to the circuit, the track stated on Tuesday. "Early this morning our team inspected the entire layout. While some sand and water had accumulated on parts of the track, it was promptly removed. The surface is dry, clean, and 100 percent race-ready. The statement also confirmed that F1 Academy sessions have been running without issue. In fact, since this morning the F1 Academy has been out on track for their scheduled practice sessions without any issues. All sessions are running exactly as planned. See you at the circuit! Earlier, Dutch media and German outlet TZ reported that the municipality had intentionally opened an emergency reservoir at the circuit to prevent flooding in the city centre. A local spokesperson explained: The water reservoir in the centre is full. Therefore, the emergency reservoir at the racetrack was opened to absorb additional water. The gravel bed at the final corner was reportedly affected, but the circuit insists any impact was minor and temporary. Zandvoort is set to host the Dutch GP at the end of August, with the venue set to drop off the calendar after 2026. (GMM) Featured US$7.1bn mineral revenue was generated in Ghana in 2024 Graphic Online Business News Jul - 23 - 2025 , 15:00 Ghana's mining sector generated US$7.1 billion in mineral revenue, with US$4.9 billion returned to the country through the Bank of Ghana and commercial banks, according to the Ghana Chamber of Mines. This revenue represents 70.8 percent of the total earnings from the Chamber's producing member companies. The mining sector also contributed a GH17.7 billion (approximately US$2.1 billion based on the current exchange rate) in revenue to the government, a 51.2 per cent increase from 2023. This was published by the Ghana Chamber of Mines in line with its commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in the extractive sector in relation to mining sector-related payments to the government along with disclosures of expenditure by its producing member companies on key mining inputs and corporate social investments for the year 2024. The total fiscal payments attributable to the mining and quarrying sector it said amounted to GH17.7 billion in 2024, which translates into 24.3 percent of direct domestic tax revenues. This performance it said reaffirmed the sector's position as the largest contributor to tax revenue from economic activities. In the same vein, mineral export proceeds remained the largest source of foreign exchange earnings for Ghana in 2024 it said. The mining sector generated US$11.9 billion in revenue, surpassing the combined export earnings from crude oil (US$3.9 billion) and cocoa (US$1.9 billion), and exceeding inflows from inward remittances (US$6.7 billion). It said the Bank of Ghana figures show that, the sector accounted for 58.4 percent of gross merchandise export earnings in 2024. This underscores the mining sector's central role in Ghana's external trade performance. Out of the US$7.1 billion in mineral revenue generated by the Chamber's producing member companies in 2024, a total of US$4.9 billion was returned to Ghana through the Bank of Ghana and commercial banks. This represents 70.8 percent of their earnings in 2024. These proceeds remain a major source of foreign exchange liquidity for the domestic financial system. their aning in o2d The inflows to the central bank comprised forex sales under the Mandatory Surrender Requirement regime and the voluntary forex purchase initiative, while the inflows to the commercial banks were made exclusively through voluntary forex sales. Additionally, the Chamber's producing member companies sold 358,218 ounces of gold to the Bank of Ghana under its Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) in 2024. The Chamber's continued support for the Bank's voluntary forex and gold purchase initiatives significantly contributed to bolstering the Bank's reserve position and enhancing the relative stability of the Ghanaian Cedi. As part of its efforts to deepen local content and leverage the mining sector to catalyse broad-based socio-economic development, the Chamber's producing members spent US$5.5 billion on procuring goods, services, fiscal obligations, and initiatives. Of this amount, US$3.5 billion was spent on goods and services and US$28 million on corporate social investments in 2024. Table 1.0 provides a summary of mining sector-related payments and key expenditure of the Chamber's producing mines. Breakdown: Total Mineral Revenue: US$7.1 billion generated by the Ghana Chamber of Mines' producing member companies. Revenue Returned to Ghana: US$4.9 billion, representing 70.8% of the total revenue. Government Revenue Contribution: GH17.7 billion (approximately US$2.1 billion), a significant increase from GH11.7 billion in 2023. Sector's Importance: The mining sector is the largest contributor to tax revenue and the largest source of foreign exchange earnings for Ghana. Foreign Exchange: Mineral export proceeds surpassed combined earnings from crude oil and cocoa, and even inward remittances. Sector Contribution to GDP: While the text doesn't explicitly state the sector's contribution to GDP, it mentions the total fiscal payments of GH17.7 billion represent 24.3 percent of direct domestic tax revenues, highlighting its fiscal importance. Featured 81 Candidates apply to run in Camerouns presidential elections BBC Africa International News Jul - 23 - 2025 , 13:22 2 minutes read It's a record number: 81 candidate applications to run in the presidential elections set for October this year were made to Cameroun's national body in charge of organising elections by the deadline on last Monday at midnight. Among the hopefuls are many second-time runners. After breaking away from supporting President Paul Biya earlier this year, Bello Bouba Maigari is running in a presidential race for the second time in his political career. The same goes for Maurice Kamto and Cabral Libii, with both also changing political party affiliations for the elections. The flood of applications meanwhile remains dominated by men: out of the 81 total applications, only seven female candidates declared their intention to run in the presidential elections, among them Eliane Veronique Eboutou and independent candidates, Mbengono Zouame Epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine and Genevieve Zeh Amvene. Biya's grip on power is unlikely to be broken. Among the men, it is the incumbent President and oldest head of state in Africa Paul Biya who dominates the list. The 92-year-old, who has held power for the past four decades, recently declared his intention to run for office again despite growing concerns over his health and ability to lead the country. Some local media speculated that the number of candidates could point to a growing wish for political change from the population, as well as a fracturing of Cameroun's political landscape. Despite Biya's age, the President's grip on power is unlikely to loosen through elections whose democratic nature is doubted, according to analysts. Last week, Biya also reshuffled top military ranks in what was seen as a way to ensure his renewed run for the presidency would have the army's backing. The country now waits for the decision of the electoral council, set to approve or reject each application in the coming weeks.The final list of candidates can be published at the latest 60 days before the election. Next article: BBC radio presenter dies in car crash while on holiday with family Featured French President Macron files defamation suit against US influencer Candace Owens bbc.com International News Jul - 23 - 2025 , 19:12 2 minutes read French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte have filed a defamation lawsuit against right-wing influencer Candace Owens, who claims that France's first lady was born male. The suit, filed Wednesday in the US state of Delaware, said Owens has been spreading "outlandish, defamatory, and far-fetched fictions". Owens has regularly repeated the claims on her popular podcast and social media channels, and in March 2024 stated that she would stake her "entire professional reputation" on her belief that Mrs Macron "is in fact a man". The BBC contacted Owens for comment. A conspiracy theory which has circulated for years in fringe online spaces alleges Mrs Macron was born male under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which belongs to her brother. Owens has spread the conspiracy theory to her large audiences including nearly 7m followers on X. Earlier this year she released a video series titled Becoming Brigitte. The Macrons said in a statement released by their attorneys that they asked Owens repeatedly for a retraction, but "ultimately concluded that referring the matter to a court of law was the only remaining avenue for remedy". "Ms Owens' campaign of defamation was plainly designed to harass and cause pain to us and our families and to garner attention and notoriety," the statement said. "We gave her every opportunity to back away from these claims, but she refused." The suit alleges Owens "disregarded all credible evidence disproving her claim in favor of platforming known conspiracy theorists and proven defamers." It also accuses Owens of falsely alleging the French president and his wife are blood relatives and that Emmanuel Macron was installed in office by a secret CIA plot. Owens worked for conservative organisations including the student group Turning Point and media outlet Daily Wire before launching her independent podcast in 2024. She has since spread rumours or suggested that conspiracies lie behind things such as Covid vaccines, the Holocaust and the moon landings. The lawsuit also names her Delaware-headquartered companies and asks for unspecified damages. Under US law the Macrons will have to prove "actual malice" meaning that the defendant knew the information was false, but published or broadcast it anyway. In September a French court found two women guilty of libel for spreading the false claims about Brigitte Macron, however that decision was overturned on appeal earlier this month, according to the AFP news agency. Owens is married to George Farmer, a British-American entrepreneur and the son of Baron Michael Farmer, a House of Lords peer and former Conservative Party treasurer who has distanced himself from some of Owens' views. Featured Education Minister pledges support for out-of-school children Severious Kale-Dery Education Jul - 23 - 2025 , 09:57 2 minutes read The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has reaffirmed the governments commitment to reintegrating vulnerable out-of-school children into society through skills training and inclusive education. Speaking at the Father Campbell Foundation in Weija, one of the key implementing centres under the Ghana Education Outcomes Project (GEOP), Mr Iddrisu assured learners that the Ministry of Education would continue to support them beyond training. Father Campbell Foundation The Father Campbell Foundation, led by Rev. Fr Andrew Campbell, is a key implementing partner under GEOP. The Foundation currently caters for 170 out-of-school youth, many of whom have lived on the streets. The learners undergo a six-to nine-month accelerated programme in literacy and numeracy, followed by certified, competency-based training in skills aligned with their interests, supporting them to build sustainable livelihoods. With support from trained social workers, educators and healthcare professionals, the Father Campbell Foundation provides holistic care that meets the educational, emotional and social needs of its learners. We will not abandon you. Through apprenticeship and vocational training, the ministry will support you to become independent and contribute meaningfully to society, he told the learners. The minister pledged to provide the necessary infrastructure to expand the programmes intake from 170 to 1,000 children. Father Campbells selfless work is restoring dignity and giving hope to children society once ignored. These are the kinds of interventions that demonstrate the power of compassion combined with structure. As a ministry, we are committed to supporting this vision, Mr Iddrisu added. He praised Rev. Fr Campbell and his team for their unwavering dedication to transforming the lives of street-connected children through education, care and shelter. GEOP Mr Iddrisu said GEOP, supported by the World Bank and other development partners, was a results-based education initiative aimed at reintegrating out-of-school youth aged 15 to 18 into productive pathways. He said the initiative was part of GEOP's broader objective to improve education outcomes in Ghana, particularly for out-of-school children. By providing vulnerable out-of-school street children with access to education and skills training, GEOP is empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and create a brighter future for themselves, Mr Iddrisu explained. Some of the learners shared emotional stories of their experiences living on the streets and expressed gratitude for the opportunities, care and sense of purpose the Foundation has given them. The Ministry of Education reiterated its plan to scale up similar interventions across the country to ensure that vulnerable children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities. Featured 202 trafficked Ghanaians rescued, repatriated from Nigeria Foreign Minister Beatrice Laryea Jul - 23 - 2025 , 19:00 1 minute read A total of 202 Ghanaian nationals who fell victim to human trafficking and a scam syndicate operating in Nigeria have been rescued and repatriated, according to Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister revealed that the victims were linked to operations believed to be run by the Q-Net group, a notorious recruitment and trafficking network. Our missions in Nigeria have successfully repatriated 202 Ghanaians78 through the Abuja Mission and 124 via the Lagos Mission, Mr Ablakwa said. He further raised concerns about an estimated 500 Ghanaian nationals who are reportedly being held against their will in Abidjan, Cote dIvoire. Diplomatic efforts are currently underway to identify and safely bring them back home. According to the Minister, investigations have revealed that some of the ringleaders behind the Q-Net operations in Cote dIvoire are themselves Ghanaiansformer victims of the same scamwho are now exploiting others in a desperate attempt to recover their personal losses. The traffickers lure unsuspecting compatriots under the pretext of facilitating their travel to France or other European countries for lucrative job opportunities. Victims are first brought to supposed transit countries like Nigeria or Cote dIvoire, where the scammers claim visa processing is quicker than in Ghana, he explained. He assured Parliament that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with national and international security agencies, is intensifying efforts to dismantle the trafficking networks and implement lasting solutions to what he described as a deeply troubling trend. Next article: NACOC says it is planning operation to clamp down on children in cannabis farms Featured Galamsey: Government to deploy 530 new Blue Water Guards to fight illegal mining Mohammed Ali Jul - 23 - 2025 , 12:56 2 minutes read The government is set to deploy 530 newly trained Blue Water Guards this week as part of a nationwide effort to tackle illegal mining and help restore Ghanas polluted rivers. The deployment, scheduled for Friday, July 25, 2025, will bring the total number of trained personnel under the initiative to over 1,000. Speaking at a press conference nicknamed "Government Accountability Series" on Wednesday [July 23, 2025] the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the Blue Water Guards will operate as a non-confrontational, intelligence-led force to protect water bodies from further damage caused by illegal mining. Mr Buah explained that the Blue Water Initiative was launched within the first 120 days of the current administration and forms part of the government's plans to address galamsey and improve environmental protection. The deployment strategy is community-centred. These officers work closely with local people to raise awareness while quietly gathering intelligence on environmental threats, Mr Buah said. He announced that the second phase of the programme will begin shortly. It will involve what he called the de-chemicalisation of polluted rivers; removing harmful substances and gradually restoring water bodies to cleaner conditions. The government has set a target to train 2,000 Blue Water Guards by the end of 2025. Although the impact of illegal mining continues to be felt in communities along the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers, the Ministry says early feedback from the first phase of the deployment points to increased community cooperation and intelligence sharing. We are beginning to see real behavioural change where Blue Water Guards have been deployed, Mr Buah said. This is not just enforcement. This is national renewal. The Blue Water Initiative is one of several natural resource and environmental programmes being rolled out by the Ministry. Others include the Tree for Life reforestation campaign, the Responsible Cooperative Mining scheme, and reforms in land administration services. Previous article: FDA Ghanas disclaimer on purported approval of COA 72 for clinical trials as an anti-HIV drug Featured Graphic, NIC, GIA Insurance fair Timothy Ngnenbe Jul - 23 - 2025 , 06:43 3 minutes read All is set for the 2025 edition of the Insurance Fair on Thursday at the Accra Mall meant to create awareness and bolster the countrys insurance sector. Scheduled to take place at the Accra Mall Food Court in Accra, the event is expected to bring together hundreds of insurance sector players, state and corporate institutions, as well as individuals to explore opportunities within the sector. The annual event is being held jointly by the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), the National Insurance Commission (NIC) and the Ghana Insurers Association (GIA). This years fair will be held on the theme: Boosting insurance in the formal and informal sectors of Ghana. Opportunities The Director, Marketing and Sales of GCGL, Franklin Sowa, explained that the fair would start from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day, from Thursday to Saturday, and would have adequate arrangements for thorough engagement with insurers and patrons. "There are a lot of knowledge gaps on insurance that need to be addressed. There are questions that are begging for answers, and people do not know where to go; they do not know who to ask; so this fair provides the opportunity to deal with those concerns, he stressed. Mr Sowa explained that the insurance fair was meant to create a platform for key players in the insurance industry to interact with members of the public and present innovative products to them. He said insurance packages in key areas such as property, life, vehicle, travel, fire, and investment would be explored to help patrons to know the potential liabilities in those areas and the need to take insurance cover. Commitment Mr Sowa said the insurance fair was part of efforts by GCGL to create awareness about insurance and generate interest in the industry. We see a robust insurance sector as one of the key pillars that will help to drive development across all sectors, and that is why Graphic sees it necessary to help grow that sector so that the country can reap the benefits, the Director, Marketing and Sales said. He called on state and non-state actors to actively participate in the fair to send a positive signal about the critical role the industry played in national development. Having an insurance cover is a protection against risk; a protection that shifts your liability to the third party and gives you peace of mind to focus on what you really would love to do," he stressed. GCGLs relevance Mr Sowa said that because GCGL was a relevant media house with information and data of every sector of the country, it would use that leverage to mobilise key stakeholders to project a sector as important as the insurance industry. "Over the years, we have been publishing supplements on the insurance industry in the Daily Graphic. We found that there is the need to create a platform where insurers and the general public can engage, he said. He added that the fair would help grow the insurance market "so that as the market grows, we will all benefit from it as a country. "We are a news house, and this fair is to reinforce our relevance and reinforce our brand strength as a relevant media platform, Mr Sowa added. Featured Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe: Kusasi chief shot dead in Asawase Gilbert Mawuli Agbey Jul - 23 - 2025 , 12:11 3 minutes read Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi Chief in the Ashanti Region has been shot dead by unknown assailants at Asawase, a Kumasi suburb. He was reportedly attacked on Tuesday night by the unknown assailants. The development has heightened the security situation in the area. Until his death, the late chief also served as the Kaadi Divisional Area Chief in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region. According to some eyewitnesses, the unidentified gunmen, each riding a motorbike, reportedly approached the chief on Tuesday evening and shot him at close range, and fled the scene. Police statement A police statement said investigations are ongoing The statement noted that the victim was initially rushed to the Manhyia District Hospital and later referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. In response to the incident, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Mr Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe; the Regional Crime Officer, ACP Mr Ebenezer Boyor; and a team of officers visited the crime scene. During the inspection, two empty shells suspected to be from an AK-47 assault rifle were recovered and documented. The Regional Police Command has assured that every effort was being made to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous crime. We therefore urge the public to remain calm and call on anyone with relevant information to contact the nearest police station or reach us through our emergency lines: 191, 18555, and 112, the statement concluded. Condolences Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Asawase, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Kusasi community in the Ashanti Region, and the entire traditional leadership of the Kusaug area. He said: This heinous act is not only an attack on a revered traditional authority but also a grievous wound to the peace and security we all cherish. He assured the family and the people of Ghana that the security agencies were fully committed to ensuring the swift apprehension of the perpetrators, who would be made to face the full rigours of the law. We remain resolute in protecting every citizen and upholding the rule of law. I call on all residents, particularly within the Asawase constituency and its environs, to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies by providing any information that may assist in the ongoing investigations, he stated. Mr Mohammed-Mubarak, who also serves as the Minister for the Interior, urged the public to stand together to ensure that justice is served and that peace prevails in the constituency and across the nation. May Allah grant the late chief eternal rest and strengthen his family and community during this difficult time, he added. Security presence In the aftermath of the incident, security at the late chiefs residence has been intensified by personnel of the Ghana Police Service. The increased presence is intended to assure residents of their safety following the brazen attack by the gunmen. Grief and mourning Scores of residents and neighbours gathered at the late chiefs residence on Wednesday morning upon hearing of his tragic death. Family members and mourners were inconsolable, with many weeping uncontrollably as they paid their respects. Next article: How a lady tracked, seduced her aunt's killer on Facebook and got him arrested Featured NACOC says it is planning operation to clamp down on children in cannabis farms Mohammed Ali Jul - 23 - 2025 , 12:45 4 minutes read The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) says it is preparing to launch targeted intelligence-led operations in the Volta Region to help dismantle cannabis farms where schoolchildren are reportedly being used as labourers. Some basic school pupils in parts of the Volta Region are now skipping classes to work as labourers on marijuana plantations for very low wages, the President of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs (VRHC), Togbe Tepre Hodo IV, recently revealed at a meeting of the House. He described the situation as dreadful, saying the trend posed a very bleak future for the region. Togbe Tepre Hodo, who is the Paramount Chief of Anfoega, said this at a general meeting of the VRHC in Ho. He said young people were cultivating the weed with impunity in Vakpo and Wusuta in the North Dayi District and Gbefi in the Kpando Municipality. The President of the VRHC said the plantations were spreading rapidly, adding that the region risked losing normal young people sooner than later. Some of the children are offered the substance to smoke on the farms, and once addiction sets in, they would definitely drift off-course, Togbe Tepre Hodo lamented. Togbe Hodo, therefore, called on law enforcement agencies to step in immediately to curb the menace. Read also: Children abandon school for marijuana farms in VR NACOC's reaction Reacting in a radio interview on Citi FM on Wednesday, [July 23, 2025] the Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations at NACOC, Francis Opoku Amoah, said NACOC was planning to launch an operation on that. Mr Amoah condemned the development, saying the involvement of minors in such illegal activities violates Ghanas narcotics and labour laws. It is a wrong thing for young people who are supposed to gain knowledge, who are supposed to be educated, and who are supposed to become future leaders to engage in activities that are not lawful, he said. Mr Amoah noted that although the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), permits regulated cultivation of industrial hemp with a THC content of less than 0.3 per cent for medicinal or industrial purposes, no licence has been granted for such activity in Ghana. Even as we are talking now, the Minister for the Interior hasn't given anybody authorisation to cultivate hemp with 0.3 per cent THC, he stated. Once Parliament passes the fees and charges, anybody interested can apply, but for now, no such approval exists. On the situation in the Volta Region, Mr Amoah said the Commission had already destroyed more than 50 acres of illegal cannabis farms in the area in previous years. He said NACOC continues to receive weekly intelligence reports and is working closely with the Ghana Police Service, the National Intelligence Bureau, and the National Security Secretariat to step up enforcement. We are going to hit the Volta Region and make sure that we are not just hitting there, but were getting the results that will make people know that, yes, you cannot go close to cannabis, which by our law is prohibited and unlawful, Mr Amoah said. He explained that NACOCs operations will go beyond clearing the farms, targeting the full network behind the illicit trade. This includes financiers, recruiters, storage sites, and distributors. When you go and burn the farm, there are still people who store the product and sell it. So we are making sure that once we move in, we attack all these fronts to achieve maximum results, he added. Mr Amoah said the Commission, under the leadership of its Executive Secretary, Brigadier General Maxwell Bobamante, is working to confront drug-related threats, particularly those involving children. This is a serious issue. It is a serious matter that we do not joke with at all, he said. The Commission also called for support from traditional leaders and community members to help curb the growing use of children on illegal drug farms and its impact on education and youth development. Next article: Nii Adama Latse II loses case at Supreme Court; Order to restore his name onto national register of chiefs quashed Featured Sammy Gyamfi: GoldBod CEO files GH10million defamation suit against Afia Schwarzenegger Kweku Zurek Jul - 23 - 2025 , 18:40 2 minutes read Samuel Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, has initiated legal proceedings against media personality Valentina Nana Acyeiwaa, known as Afia Schwarzenegger, at the Accra High Court. The lawsuit, filed by Gyamfi's legal representatives at Sustineri Attorneys PRUC, seeks GH10 million in damages for alleged defamatory statements made in a TikTok video. Court documents cite specific claims by Schwarzenegger regarding Gyamfi's personal life and financial dealings. In the video in question, Schwarzenegger stated in Asante Twi: "Tell Sammy Gyamfi's wife that I am greeting her. Her husband is still buying cars for girls in Legon... I am holding the list... Even his wife's younger sister has bought a house in the US." These statements were submitted to the court with an official English translation. Gyamfi's legal team contends these remarks constitute defamation, alleging they falsely portray their client as engaging in improper relationships and financial misconduct. The filing includes requests for general damages, exemplary damages totalling GHS 10 million, and a permanent injunction against further similar publications. The plaintiff has additionally demanded a retraction and public apology to be published in the Daily Graphic newspaper for three consecutive days, as well as on all platforms where the original content appeared. In response to the lawsuit, Schwarzenegger in a Tiktok video indicated she does not intend to contest the legal action, adding that Mr. Gyamfi should be congratulated on his expected victory. The court has issued an eight-day deadline for Schwarzenegger to formally respond to the writ following service of documents. Next article: Government rolls out new Lands Commission offices in 90 districts, targets 30-day processing Featured Shock as mother allegedly murders 2 children in suspected mental health crisis Beatrice Laryea Jul - 23 - 2025 , 15:16 2 minutes read The quiet of Monday morning was shattered on July 21 along Unity Road in Trans Ekulu, Enugu, Nigeria, when neighbors made a horrifying discovery: two young childrena four-year-old girl and her three-month-old baby brotherwere found dead in their home, allegedly killed by their mother. The suspect, identified as Chidima Arinze, is believed to have committed the act at her residence, No. 47 Unity Road, in what police have described as one of the most disturbing domestic incidents in recent memory According to police sources, the tragic event unfolded around 9:00 a.m. when the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Trans Ekulu Division received a distress call. Officers were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the lifeless bodies of Esther Arinze, aged 4, and Chibusoma Arinze, just 3 months old. Both children reportedly bore injuries consistent with wounds inflicted by a sharp object. The scene was promptly secured, and forensic documentation was carried out before the suspect was taken into custody without resistance. The childrens remains were conveyed to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT), Parklane, where medical personnel confirmed their deaths. Their bodies have since been deposited at the hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy. Preliminary investigations are ongoing at the Trans Ekulu Police Division. The case is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a more in-depth and discreet inquiry. While no official motive has been established, early speculation from residents suggests the possibility of a postpartum mental health crisis, though this remains unconfirmed. This is something weve never seen before in our neighborhood, said a resident who requested anonymity. She was quiet and kept to herself. No one had any idea she might have been struggling. The Enugu State Police Command has assured the public of a thorough and sensitive investigation. We recognize the emotional gravity of this case, a senior police official said. Investigators are examining all angles, including the psychological condition of the suspect. The Trans Ekulu community remains in shock and mourning over the tragic loss. We are heartbroken, said a neighboUr. Two innocent children are gone, and their mother is in custody. There are no winners in this. Next article: See the areas that will be affected by ECGs planned maintenance on Thursday, July 24, 2025 Featured Nii Adama Latse II loses case at Supreme Court; Order to restore his name onto national register of chiefs quashed Justice Agbenorsi Jul - 23 - 2025 , 17:21 5 minutes read The Supreme Court has quashed the order directed at the National House of Chiefs in Kumasi to restore Nii Tackie Adama Latse II onto the national register of chiefs as the Ga Mantse. In a ruling Wednesday [July 23, 2025], a five-member panel of the apex court which had Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang as its president, was of the view that before making the order to restore Nii Latse IIs name onto the register, the Kumasi High Court judge, Justice Frederick Tetteh, did not give Nii Tackie Teiko a notice and hearing, thereby violating the rule of natural justice. This comes after the apex court upheld a certiorari application filed by counsel for the Nii Tackie Tsuru, Professor Peter A. Atupare. The court said that the High Court did not afford Nii Tackie Tsuru his constitutional right to be heard in proceedings that directly affected his rights and interests as Ga Mantse. Related: Nii Adama Latse II wins appeal: Court orders House of Chiefs to restore him to register - But Ga Mantse office says King Teiko Tsuru II remains Chief Appeal On June 12, 2025, the Court of Appeal ordered the National House of Chiefs to restore Nii Adama Latse onto the national register of chiefs as the Ga Mantse (the Paramount Chief of the Ga State) within 14 days. That was after it upheld a High Court ruling, which first gave the order in November 2021. In its unanimous decision, the three-member panel of the second-highest court of the land held that the National House of Chiefs removed Nii Adama Latses name from the register without any evidence that he had been validly destooled, a prerequisite for removing a chiefs name from the national register. The National House of Chiefs, Kumasi, removed the name of Nii Latse II from the national register without any evidence that he was dead, had been deposed or had abdicated or that an adjudicatory body had ordered the removal of his name. The decision of National House of Chiefs, Kumasi was ultra vires, constituted an abuse of power and amounted to a wrong exercise of discretion, thereby constituting an error of law, the three-member panel of the court ruled when it dismissed the National House of Chiefs, Kumasis appeal against the November 2021 High Court decision. Read also: Nii Adama Latse II wins appeal: Court orders House of Chiefs to restore him to register - But Ga Mantse office says King Teiko Tsuru II remains Chief Background In April 2021, Nii Adama Latse II learnt that his name had been expunged from the National Register. To ascertain his status, counsel for Nii Adama Latse applied for a search with the National House of Chiefs, Kumasi, which confirmed that, indeed, his name had been expunged. He then instructed his lawyer to write a letter of objection, demanding the restoration of his name in the register by April 27, 2021, but the National House of Chiefs, Kumasi, refused. Following this, Nii Adama Latse, whose name was originally part of the register after submitting his enstoolment form from the Ga Traditional Council, filed a motion in a form of a judicial review at the High Court in Kumasi, seeking an order directed at the National House of Chiefs, Kumasi to restore his name onto the register as the Ga Mantse. This relief was granted by the High Court, but unsatisfied with the ruling, the National House of Chiefs, Kumasi, went to the Court of Appeal to challenge the High Court ruling, which ordered the restoration of Nii Adama Latses name in the register. Their main argument was that the High Court was not the proper forum to seek a judicial review; hence, it was not clothed with the jurisdiction to hear the matter. It is this appeal that has been dismissed by the Court of Appeal, affirming the High Courts order for Nii Adama Latses name to be restored. Statement By a press statement issued on June 13, 2025, the Office of King Tackie Teiko Tsuru refuted claims that the ruling confers chieftaincy legitimacy on Nii Adama Latse. It emphasised that the judiciary did not have jurisdiction to determine matters affecting chieftaincy titles, which were the exclusive purview of the Judicial Committees of the Traditional Councils and the Regional and National Houses of Chiefs. The Court of Appeal did not and could not declare Nii Adama Latse II as Ga Mantse, the statement read. The court merely upheld an administrative order specifically, an order of mandamus compelling the National House of Chiefs to follow due legal process in maintaining or removing names from the National Register, it said, adding that the substantive matter regarding who rightfully occupies the Ga Mantse Stool remains unresolved and is still pending before the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs. The statement further called on the media and the public to treat with caution the widespread interpretations of the ruling. We urge all well-meaning GaDangme citizens and residents of the Ga State to remain calm and not be swayed by misinformation, the statement said. Next article: Undelivered passports pile up at application centres due to inaccurate details Previous article: Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts visits Nkyinkyim Museum to explore strategic collaboration Featured TI Ahmadiyya SHS: Police arrest student for stabbing classmate over mobile phone dispute Kwadwo Baffoe Donkor Jul - 23 - 2025 , 16:43 1 minute read Iddrissu Ibrahim, a final-year student of the TI Ahmadiyya Senior High School in Wa, was stabbed last night by a fellow student. Ibrahim is reported to be in critical but stable condition and is currently receiving treatment at the Wa Regional Hospital. The incident occurred around 9 pm on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, following an argument between the two students over a video recording allegedly made of the suspect. The Upper West Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police Darko Offei Lomotey, confirmed the incident to GraphicOnline. Arrest The suspect has since been arrested and is in police custody assisting with investigations. The police have also deployed plain-clothed personnel to the school as part of their ongoing inquiries. It is alleged that Ibrahim filmed the suspect without his knowledge. When the suspect confronted him and demanded that the video be deleted, Ibrahim reportedly refused and ignored the warning. This led to a confrontation, during which the suspect allegedly stabbed Ibrahim with a knife. Previous article: How a lady tracked, seduced her aunt's killer on Facebook and got him arrested Featured 'You were right, I was wrong' Charlotte Osei recalls humble moment with Atta Mills Mohammed Ali Jul - 23 - 2025 , 12:18 2 minutes read Former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mrs Charlotte Kesson-Smith Osei, has recounted what she described as a rare act of humility by the late President John Evans Atta Mills, calling it a powerful lesson in leadership that listens. Speaking at the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Lecture held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Mrs Osei said that during her time in public service under Professor Millss administration as chairperson of the National Commission on Civic Education (NNCE), she once challenged a presidential decision she believed was wrong. According to her, the President responded calmly and, months later, privately admitted she had been right. We argued as lawyers, and he told me, When youre president, you see things very differently, she told the audience. Eventually, in one of the matters, months later, I got a message from him, he said, You were right, and I was wrong. That was an emotional moment for me and a great lesson in leadership. Mrs Osei, who was appointed by President Mills in 2011 as Chair of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), shared the experience to highlight the late Presidents integrity and openness to dissent; qualities she said are increasingly rare in todays public leadership. Power that fears criticism is already bankrupt, she said, adding that Professor Millss willingness to admit error, even in private, revealed the strength behind his quiet leadership style. The memorial lecture, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), was organised by the John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage. The event drew government officials, academics, former appointees, and members of the diplomatic community to reflect on the legacy of the late President. Mrs Osei delivered her address under the theme Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic, speaking from the perspective of a former student and mentee. She described Professor Mills as someone whose humility and moral clarity remained consistent, whether as a teacher, president, or private citizen. She said his ability to remain grounded while holding high office had a lasting impact on her own approach to public service. In a world of noise, integrity is a silent superpower, she said. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but the most thoughtful. Professor John Evans Atta Mills died in office on July 24, 2012. He is remembered for his calm demeanour, democratic ideals, and insistence on inclusive governance. Featured 15-member Local Government Council inaugurated Timothy Ngnenbe Politics Jul - 23 - 2025 , 05:57 3 minutes read The sixth governing council of the Local Government Service (LGS) has been constituted, with a charge on members to explore innovative policies that will make local governance the engine of the countrys development. The 15-member council, which is chaired by a former Ambassador of Ghana to Germany, Akua Sena Dansua, has also been tasked to make the reset agenda of the government reflect in enhanced grassroots participation in the countrys democratic process. The Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, swore the council into office today (July 15), underscoring the need to take the LGS to a higher pedestal. Council members Some of the members of the council are Buipewura Mahama Abdulai Jinapor II, National House of Chiefs; Amin Abdul-Rahaman, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs; Prof. Nicholas Awortwi, Director, ILGS; Dr Audrey Smock Amoah, National Development Planning Commission; Inusah Shirazu, Ministry of Education, and Dr Koku Awoonor-Williams, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Health. The rest are Prof. Lord Mensah, Local Government Service; Michael Harry Yamson, District Assemblies Common Fund; Alfred Asiedu Adjei, National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana; Mahamood Shakil Kpedau, Local Government Workers Union, and Christopher Kwaku Dapaah, a member. Context The LGS Council was set up in accordance with section 49 of the Local Government Act, 2016 (Act 936), which established the LGS. Section 50 of Act 936 puts out the membership of the LGS Council to include persons drawn from offices and departments of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAS) and Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs), Office of the Head of Local Government Studies (OHLGS) and other persons that may be deemed needed for the effective running of the council. As spelt out in Section 51 of Act 936, the objective of the LGS is to ensure effective administration and management of the decentralised local government system in the country. Diligence Mr Ibrahim said achieving the mandate as provided for in Act 936 would require the members of the Council to work together with stakeholders within the local governance space. He said it was imperative for the Council to bring their expertise from various fields to bear to promote efficiency, professionalism and accountability in the local governance process. The Local Government Service represents the frontline of governance, the conduit through which the aspirations of our people are translated into tangible outcomes. Its impact reverberates across every community, influencing livelihoods, promoting inclusion and driving development, he said. Assurance For her part, Ambassador Dansua said the council was aware of the onerous responsibility on its shoulders and would stop at nothing to ensure effective local government. She said, daunting as the mandate looked, the council would go all out to make a lasting impact on the delivery of local government services in the country. Ghanaians are looking up to us to rekindle the spirit of participation at the local level, and I assure the President that we will deliver on the job and excel, she said. Previous article: Who is Professor Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, the US trained surgeon and MP for Essikado-Ketan who has been nominated as Deputy Health Minister Featured Dont abuse trust of people - Speaker tells MP for Ablekuma North Nana Konadu Agyeman & Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Politics Jul - 23 - 2025 , 08:57 3 minutes read The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has sworn the National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament, Ewurabena Aubynn, into office. She was sworn in after the Speaker had read a communication dated July 14, 2025, from the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa, informing the Clerk to Parliament about the election of the new MP. Her swearing-in has now increased the number of female legislators in the House to 41, a development the Speaker described as a blessing. Her presence has now enabled the NDC Caucus to hold two-thirds of the membership in the House, a figure that allows the Majority to proceed freely and without obstruction in every decision-making process. Ms Aubynn obtained 34,090 votes to defeat her sole contender, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who polled 33,881 votes. Even before she was sworn in, the Minority Caucus expressed their unwillingness to participate in the process and walked out. The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, told the House that we cannot be part of the swearing-in process, but we would engage in other businesses in the House. People trust Soon after she was sworn in, Mr Bagbin congratulated her on being the youngest MP in the Ninth Parliament. He, however, urged her to be punctual in the House, remain calm, listen more, learn from colleagues, and read everythingnot only the Constitution and the standing orders. Read everything because you are now the hope of the people in the constituency, and they are looking up to you to do something to improve their lives. It is a trust, and I pray you do not abuse it; four years is just a day, and you will go back to them, and they will assess you this time based on your performance. So please do not be misled by anyone; you fought the battle, and others only supported you, but it was your picture and name on the ballot box. So, do not allow anyone to change who you are, he said. Mr Bagbin told the new MP that her constituents voted for her even though on a party ticket and, therefore, advised her to dedicate herself to the people and be the woman that you are. Use majority wisely The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, expressed his excitement that the people of Ablekuma North Constituency now had an MP after a long struggle. He said the aspirations of the people and their preferred choice to have an MP represent them in Parliament had been fulfilled. Mr Ayariga stated that the NDC, for the first time in a long while, held two-thirds of the membership in the House. Mr Speaker, with this number, we can do many good things for this country and carry out significant constitutional reforms to improve this country. We will use it wisely, properly and we will make sure that these numbers inure to the benefit of Ghanaians, he said. Featured Mahama Cares: Parliament passes Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, 2025 Parliament of Ghana/Facebook Politics Jul - 23 - 2025 , 07:19 1 minute read Parliament has passed the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, popularly known as the Mahama Cares Programme, under a certificate of urgency. Presenting the report of the Health Committee to the House, the Chairman, Nawaane Kurt Mark noted that the purpose of the Bill is to establish the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to mobilise resources to finance and support the provision of specialised medical care for the treatment of persons with chronic diseases and to provide for the management of the fund. He added that the Government has identified key challenges and gaps in access to specialised medical care in the country. These challenges include the concentration of specialist services in urban areas, limited diagnostic equipment, inadequate data systems, and the high cost of treating chronic diseases, which often leads to catastrophic household expenditure. He pointed out that households with patients with chronic diseases risk falling into poverty within five years of diagnosis. "The Bill, therefore, seeks to provide statutory backing for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and set out the arrangements for management of the Fund," he stated. The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, was at hand to suggest proposed clauses to amend the Bill at the consideration stages before the passage of the Bill. Featured Who is Professor Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, the US trained surgeon and MP for Essikado-Ketan who has been nominated as Deputy Health Minister Daily Graphic Politics Jul - 23 - 2025 , 08:57 2 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama last week nominated the Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan, Professor Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, as Deputy Minister of Health, continuing his administration's commitment to appointing seasoned professionals to key positions. The appointment brings Prof. Ayensu-Danquahs significant medical expertise to the Ministry of Health, at a time when health has become central to the Presidents administration following the launch of the Ghana Medical Trust, christened Mahama Cares. The National Democratic Congress Member of Parliaments (MP) is expected to complement the astute Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to prosecute President Mahamas bold vision for the health centre. Stellar credentials Prof. Ayensu-Danquahs impressive credentials span clinical practice, academia and public health across two continents. A first-time MP, she is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced fellowship training in trauma, burns, and reconstructive surgery. She also holds medical degrees from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and the University of Southern California, along with a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, all in the United States of America. The Essikado-Ketan lawmaker currently maintains active medical licences in California, Michigan and Maryland in the United States. She also operates a private surgical facility in Accra and serves as an Adjunct Professor of Surgery at the University of Utah's Center for Global Surgery. Humanitarian impact Beyond her impressive clinical work, Prof. Ayensu-Danquah has made substantial contributions to Ghana's health care through her Healing Hands Organisation. The non-governmental medical organisation provides free surgical and medical care to underserved communities and donates essential medical equipment to rural health facilities. Her commitment to public health governance is evident through her service on the Technical Advisory Committee on the Safety of Vaccines and Biological Products of Ghana's Food and Drugs Authority, and her role as a board member of Days for Girls International Ghana. Professional recognition The distinguished surgeon is a fellow of multiple prestigious medical colleges, including the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the International College of Surgeons, and the West African College of Surgeons. Featured Vice President calls for national reflection and recommitment to Mills Better Ghana vision Mohammed Ali Politics Jul - 23 - 2025 , 12:41 2 minutes read Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged Ghanaians to renew their dedication to the values and vision championed by the late President John Evans Atta Mills, particularly the Better Ghana Agenda. Speaking at the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Anniversary Commemorative Lecture held in Accra on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Professor Opoku-Agyemang said the late Presidents ideals of inclusivity, peace, and good governance remain relevant in shaping the countrys development path. Professor Mills was a gift to Ghana, she said, describing him as a leader defined not by spectacle but by quiet strength, deep compassion, and an unshakable belief in the potential of every Ghanaian. She added that the Better Ghana Agenda was more than a government policy. In her view, it represented a national vision in which every citizen, regardless of background, could have a fair chance to succeed. She said that vision prioritised education, youth development, and gender inclusion; areas that, according to her, still require deliberate attention today. Professor Opoku-Agyemang noted that the current administration was building on the foundation laid by the late president. She encouraged both leaders and citizens to reflect on how they could carry forward his values through their work and actions in everyday life. The event, held under the theme Atta Mills: A Case Study for the Fourth Republic, also featured a keynote address by former Electoral Commission Chairperson Mrs Charlotte Osei. Attendees included the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Bagbin; National Democratic Congress Chairman, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketiah; the General Secretary of the NDC, Mr Fifi Kwetey; members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. Professor Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged the role of the John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Heritage, led by Mr Alex Segbefia, in preserving the legacy of the late president. She also recognised the contribution of the Mills family in keeping his memory alive. As we move forward as a nation, she said, let us hold fast to the principles of the Asomdweehene. Let us build a Ghana where peace prevails, where integrity is non-negotiable, and where service to the people is the highest calling. President John Evans Atta Mills died in office on July 24, 2012. He was the first sitting head of state in Ghanas history to pass away while serving, and is remembered for his calm disposition, democratic values, and commitment to fairness and social inclusion. The chile-pepper string lights of First Avenue, two stories worth of them, have long been the beacon of the East Villages Indian-food corridor, the compact shorthand to generations of New Yorkers for the whole variegated sub-continental cuisine. (When a friend of mine first moved to town, he frequented a restaurant he only ever knew as Chile Pepper.) Its no huge slight to these restaurants to say that in the years since they first appeared, the Indian-food scene has expanded dramatically in variety and quality, and now we are enjoying a masala boom. Jazba, Kanyakumari, Passerine, and Chatti have all opened in the past couple of years. Our Assam runneth over. At the forefront of this charge is Unapologetic Foods, the restaurant group that opened Adda Indian Canteen in Long Island City in 2018. In the most diverse and most Indian borough, Adda was cheap and cheerful but no less ambitious or uncompromising for that. The ecstatic reception of Adda led to the opening of Dhamaka in 2021 and, later that year, Semma, with a style closer to fine dining. Like Junoon before them, where Unapologetics executive chef, Chintan Pandya, once cooked, these restaurants yanked Indian food to echelons, and neighborhoods, where it had often been unfairly overlooked. Now they seem as Manhattan as any of their neighbors. On a recent Friday night, waits at Semma were hours long; I spotted Google CEO Sundar Pichai and the great comic actress Poorna Jagannathan gliding to their tables. When Unapologetic decided this year to move Adda to a storefront on First Avenue Chile Pepper Way it felt like a statement of purpose. Adda has now been reconfigured from its scrappier origins into a recognizable sibling of Semma and Dhamaka. Long Island City was version one, but this isnt version two, Pandya told me. Its version eight, nine, or ten. What Unapologetic has managed to do is to take the lessons learned at its blockbuster hits and apply them to its firstborn without softening the focus. Adda hasnt bowdlerized or gentrified much in the move from Queens. Pandya has always insisted on serving a number of dishes that might cow timid diners: testicles and kidneys at Dhamaka, snails and intestines at Semma, and goat brain here at Adda with enough success that the night I tried to order it, it had sold out. Even then, Pandya is a chef willing to meet many of his customers where they are. We couldnt go to Manhattan without butter chicken, he said. So this Addas calling card is a reservation-only $42-per-person Butter Chicken Experience. Adda doesnt stint on bells and whistles rolling chutney carts followed by pretty chaatwallas with cigarette-girl trays of street-food chaats (fried lotus root one day, potato another) and the BCE is its maximal expression. Performed tableside, its almost more experience than chicken: a tin-can smoker for the bird (with a choice of wood chips) and a customized sauce built on a cart in front of diners eyes. Butter is a non-negotiable, of course, but which butter? Youll taste three pickled tomato, fenugreek, and smoked chile before deciding which will be melted, with yet more unaccented butter, into your sauce, plus more to crown the finished plate. The usual cuboid hunks of breast meat are here a halved or quartered chicken, which moves, post-smoking, into a tableside Le Creuset (everything at Adda is Le Creuset, like an influencer fantasy) to meet tomatoes, butter, cream, and more honey than I needed to know about. (I stopped counting dipper lashings at three.) The result is so richly creamy, so thick with butter, that my lips were moisturized by the third bite. Its recognizably a relation of the butter chicken of a million Seamless orders but more yielding and flapping dangerously close to too rich and too sweet. It is saved by a slow creep of chile heat and a blessedly earthy sidecar of dal. Butter chicken may be a Manhattan prerequisite, but I dont believe its the best way to experience Adda. The restaurant still has to do some of the work of luring unaccustomed diners to its wilder ways I think I like this better with my eyes closed, admitted a friend while drinking his shochu-and-yogurt Raita cocktail but greater rewards await them on the other side. Id run back for Addas baby-goat biryani (scraggly shreds of braised leg hidden among the sweetly frizzled onions in a fluffy tower of basmati rice) or the paneer khurchan (a ruddy, brick-red stew of homemade cheese in a sprightly coriander-brightened tomato-and-pepper sauce). Ill confess to a fondness for the squeaky cheese cubes of more workaday places, but Addas paneer doesnt so much melt in your mouth as it scatters like a cloud. The chef de cuisine, Neel Kajale, boasts that if anyone can make a more tender paneer than his, hell comp their meal. The paneer comes from the vegetarian menu, which could float its own restaurant. Not every dish rises to these heights. A coconut-curry stew, served with a choice of fish sea bass, mackerel, or the more authentically Indian pomfret was tough and bony. (The latter is the fishs fault, but the former is the restaurants.) What should have been a showstopper shank of lamb, which a server hoists to standing with a skewer, the better to appreciate the braised meat falling off the bone, was indeed succulent and gamy in its korma-spiced cashew sauce, but it needed more spice to balance its chocolaty richness. . . Clockwise from top left: Adda's exterior, the Butter Chicken Experience, inside, the sigdi prawn. Hugo Yu. Clockwise from top left: Adda's exterior, the Butter Chicken Experience, inside, the sigdi prawn. Hugo Yu. These are nits, not tragedies, quickly assuaged with the swoop of a flaky fried paratha through any and every dish of sauce, and if anything is not spicy or sharp enough, theres always the ready adulteration of ones chosen chutneys: the Indian salt and pepper, as the chutney-cart driver will remind you. The long railroad-style space is festive and bright with the usual Unapologetic decor Indian-newspaper-headline wallpaper abutting prismatic walls and a bubbly Hindi soundtrack. Drinks are given more priority than at the other restaurants with a longer and judiciously chosen wine list, house beers made in collaboration with Brooklyns Transmitter Brewing, and a number of involved themed cocktails. (I didnt bring myself to order the $32 trio of chutney-inspired cocktails, including an onion-flavored one, and theres a $36 special to complement the butter chicken thats only available with the Experience.) It all suggests that despite Unapologetics significant corporate footprint (in addition to the restaurants already mentioned, the group runs Naks nearby, Rowdy Rooster, Masalawala & Sons in Brooklyn, and a biryani-delivery service), it hasnt resorted to merely syndicating itself. Adda isnt set to unseat Semma as the jewel in the companys crown. Given its homier ambitions, thats likely by design. Its a welcome addition in its own right, and a happy elevation of the old Indian corridor. Theres not a chile light to be found, but might one be ripe for reclamation? We accept many different kinds of celebrations. Just click on the button below and submit a form. Go to forms Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Gov. Arnold I. Palacios died late Wednesday night, hours after he was airlifted to Guam following a medical incident in the morning. He was 69. Lt. Gov. David Apatang, who will be sworn in as CNMI governor, said Palacios passed away peacefully and was surrounded by loved ones. Governor Palacios leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, perseverance, humility, visionary leadership, and a deep love for the Commonwealth and its people, Apatang said. He will be remembered as a unifier, a steady hand during times of challenge, and a leader who never wavered in his belief in the strength and resilience of the people he served. John Oliver Gonzales, the communications and policy advisor to the governor, confirmed Palacios passed away at 10:37 p.m. at the Guam Regional Medical City. Palacios, who is supposed to turn 70 on Aug. 22, served as the CNMIs 10th governor starting in January 2023. He has a long and checkered political career even before being elected governor in 2022. He previously served as the CNMIs 12th lieutenant governor, a Senate president and vice president, and speaker of the CNMI House of Representatives. Palacios also served as secretary of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources. The current CNMI Senate President, Dennis Mendiola of Rota, will also be sworn in as CNMI lieutenant governor. Collapsed Apatang said Palacios collapsed at his Capitol Hill office before lunch hour Wednesday. I was actually performing my [duties]. And then all I heard was the ambulance and the [Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services] people that were up there running. So, I was kind of curious whats happening. So, I went up and checked, and he was being wheeled out. And thats all that I know, Apatang told the Pacific Daily News. Palacios was initially transported to the Commonwealth Health Center Corp. on Saipan for evaluation as a precautionary measure after he experienced a medical incident, the governors office said. By Wednesday afternoon, the governors office said Palacios was in stable condition, in good spirits, and interacting normally with his medical team and family. After the initial assessment, the medical team at CHCC recommended that the governor be medically transported to Guam for additional specialized care, the governors office said. Apatang thanked the U.S. Air Force for accommodating their request that Palacios be medevaced to Guam. In an interview after Palacios was airlifted to Guam, Apatang said he wishes the governor a speedy recovery. I told him in there that we will be praying for him so he can come back to us again. Hopefully things will turn out for the better for our people here in the Commonwealth, he said. Apatang then asked the CNMI community to pray for Palacios recovery. I am deeply in sorrow and I join Wella and the families grief during this time of mourning as we pray and remember my friend, Governor Palacios, for his sacrifice and life of public service for all, Apatang later said. Palacios was born on Saipan on Aug. 22, 1955. He attended Mt. Carmel School. He attended Portland State University in Oregon and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Management. During his time in the CNMI Legislature, Palacios championed legislation and policies on natural resources, environmental conservation, economic development, and federal relations. He was a member of the Governors Section 902 Consultation team in 2016, when he helped articulate the CNMIs position on labor, immigration, and U.S. military buildup proposals. As Senate president, he created the Office of Planning and Development, which establishes development objectives, standards, and principles for the CNMIs desired land use for residential, recreational, agricultural, commercial, and industrial needs, according to the National Governors Association. While the Air Force's Resolute Force Pacific is still ongoing on Guam and nearby areas, the Navy is also kicking off its annual exercise called Citadel Pacific on Guam. Citadel Pacific 2025 will be held from July 28 to Aug. 1, according to U.S. Naval Base Guam, which will participate in this annual "Commander, Naval Installations Command force protection exercise." Exercise Citadel Pacific 2025 is not in response to any specific threat, but is a regularly scheduled exercise, Naval Base Guam said in a release Wednesday. The annual operational exercise is designed to enhance the readiness and capability of the installation to respond to internal or external threats, it said. "Measures have been taken to minimize disruptions to normal base operations, but there may be times when exercise events cause increased traffic around the installation, occasional delays in base access, and gate closures," Naval Base Guam said. Area residents may also see increased first responder activity associated with the exercise. Advanced coordination has taken place with local law enforcement and first responders, Naval Base Guam said. As part of the exercise, the Giant Voice, GV, public address systems at Naval Base Guam installations will be activated, and residents in surrounding areas will hear exercise announcements regarding force protection conditions throughout the week. "The use of the GV system adds realism to the exercise," Naval Base Guam added. Haiti - Education : Declaration of Commitment in favor of school canteens The Ministry of National Education (MENFP), in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), organized a consultation workshop on the resilience of the National School Meal Program (PNCS) in Petion-ville on July 18. This is a national initiative aimed at finding alternative solutions to this problem, in a context where nearly 5.7 million Haitians are experiencing food insecurity. At the opening of the workshop, Augustin Antoine, Minister of National Education, once again emphasized the importance for the Haitian government to continue working closely with its partners to increase the number of meals offered to children in schools, before announcing an increase in the budget allocated to school meals for the 2025-2026 academic year. According to Minister Antoine, the national food crisis requires the implementation of innovative, local, and urgent solutions to stem it or at least reduce its impact, particularly in schools. "A child who doesn't eat can't learn, just as a teacher who doesn't eat can't teach," declared the Minister, who believes that only the fight for education can free the country from the multidimensional crisis it is experiencing. Vernet Joseph, the Minister of Agriculture, welcomed this initiative as a strategic response, given the vulnerability of the number of households facing food insecurity. He advocated for the continued use of local products in school cafeterias. This represents "an added value for the national economy [...] Feeding our children with products from our agriculture strengthens the link between agriculture, national production, and rural development. Furthermore, it represents a great opportunity to create added value in rural areas, generate jobs, support farmers' incomes, and revitalize the countryside." Kevenot Dorvil, General Coordinator of the PNCS, believes that it is in this difficult context that action must support the country's various public policies. For him, the signing of the "Declaration of Commitment" calls for addressing the humanitarian emergency by carrying out concrete actions under the aegis of the National Council of the Coalition for School Feeding. For Clement Rouquette, Program Manager at the WFP office, the school canteens are the perfect example of a successful partnership between the sovereign power of the State, which sets a clear direction in terms of public policies, and the implementation capacity of the World Food Programme, stating, "WFP will always be at your side to support this dynamic and support the efforts of the Haitian government, in the service of Haitian children, families, and producers." At the end of this activity, which brought together representatives of public institutions, international cooperation agencies, and Haitian civil society, a "Declaration of Commitment" was signed, addressing technical and financial support for school feeding programs. This commitment commits to promoting, by 2030, a set of measures that can be broken down into five categories. Category 1 : Ensure structural financing for the national school canteen program for sustainable food sovereignty Strengthen the development of agricultural value chains specific to the needs of school canteens and increase contributions and financing from the private sector by strengthening public-private partnerships, among other things. Category 2 : Capacity Building for Stakeholders Strengthen the institutional, technical, and operational capacities of the PNCS, both at the central and decentralized levels, by implementing a capacity building plan developed based on a capacity gap analysis; Support research and the academic sector in developing and disseminating innovative solutions adapted to the Haitian context, training qualified human resources for the sector, and developing and implementing harmonized national standards for school infrastructure, in consultation with operators, among others. Category 3 : Multisectoral Coordination, Integration, and Innovation Strengthening synergy of action among all stakeholders involved in implementing the school feeding program; Institutionalizing the National Council on the Resilience of the School Meal Program, among others. Category 4 : Coordination, Monitoring, Accountability, Knowledge Management Establishing, among other things, a transparent monitoring and evaluation mechanism, including clear and precise indicators. Category 5 : Communication and Awareness-Raising HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Two police officers killed and an armored vehicle set on fire On the afternoon of Tuesday, July 22, a Haitian National Police (PNH) armored vehicle, patrolling Liancourt, a commune in Artibonite, fell into a deadly trap set by heavily armed bandits from the "Gran Grif" gang. Despite a heroic defense, they succumbed to the sheer number of attackers and their firepower. The death toll was high : at least two police officers from the Departmental Law Enforcement Unit (UDMO) were killed, a third is missing, and only the driver managed to escape. A civilian scout accompanying the police was also fatally injured. The armored vehicle was set on fire. Information confirmed by Lionel Lazarre, Deputy Spokesperson for the PNH, IBC Airways : Passenger Flights in September The Director General of the National Airports Authority (AAN), Yves Ducarmel Francois, met with IBC Airways' Representative in Haiti, Dimitri Fouchard, to analyze and evaluate the company's operations at Antoine Simon Airport in Les Cayes. Following the meeting, it was agreed to initially prioritize cargo operations before considering passenger transport at a later date. A technical mission is expected this Wednesday to validate the location of two 40-foot containers for cargo logistics and two 20-foot containers for future administrative offices. The AAN announced that international passenger flights will resume operations at Antoine-Simon Airport 60 days after July 28, the scheduled start date for temporary development work. At least 13 armored vehicles destroyed since June 2024 According to police sources, since June 2024, at least 13 armored vehicles belonging to the Haitian National Police (PNH) have been burned or destroyed across the country during clashes with armed groups. Denial from the owner of Safari Motors Haitian entrepreneur Alan Zuraik, owner of Safari Motors, has categorically denied rumors that he was arrested and deported from the United States by U.S. immigration officials (ICE). He denounces a disinformation campaign aimed at damaging his reputation. However, he admits to being briefly questioned by immigration authorities upon entering the U.S. National Compas Direct Week/B> Monday, July 21, 2025, at the NH El Rancho Hotel, the national week celebrating the 70th anniversary of Compas Direct (July 21-26) officially kicked off. A rich program of conferences and performances in three cities: Port-au-Prince, Cap-Haitien, and Milot, on the theme : "Gad devan : Onore, Ankadre, Bati pou demen" The Faculty of Applied Linguistics is no longer occupied On Tuesday, July 22, the Rectorate of the State University of Haiti (UEH) regained control of the former premises of the Faculty of Applied Linguistics (FLA), previously occupied by displaced families fleeing armed violence. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45392-haiti-tuesday-of-the-nation-update-on-the-relocation-of-displaced-families-video.html HL/ HaitiLibre Despite Apple's increasing difficulties in shipping specialists and materials from China to India to set up production there, the proportion of iPhones manufactured on the subcontinent is growing steadily. According to a new study by the market research institute Canalys, quoted by Yahoo, production rose by 53 percent to 23.9 million iPhones within a year. Currently, between 16 and 17 percent of all Apple phones are said to come from India, with some observers even talking about 20 percent. An important milestone is 2027: Apple wants to have reached 25 percent by then. Anzeige More and more production in India The plan remains to manufacture almost all iPhones destined for the USA on the subcontinent to avoid possible punitive tariffs on Chinese goods as part of the ongoing trade war between the USA and China. The problem is that the Trump administration has long opposed this plan and wants Apple to manufacture iPhones in the USA. However, Apple's course towards India continues undeterred with the help of its suppliers. The Group's most important manufacturer, Foxconn, plays a central role here, as do other contract manufacturers from Taiwan and increasingly also from India itself. Since last year, high-end models such as the iPhone 16 Pro have also been assembled in the country. With the iPhone 17 this fall, all models except for the very thin Air are to roll off the production line directly on the subcontinent. Apple's iPhone business has recently improved again, with the number of devices delivered in the first quarter increasing by 13 percent, despite a difficult market environment. Increased interest in the iPhone 16 Meanwhile, Apple's exports from India are growing rapidly. In May, it was reported that the value had increased by over 100 percent. Apple has already become an important asset for the Indian economy, as demonstrated by the positive treatment of the company by the political leadership when Apple CEO Cook is in the country. At the same time, Apple also seems to be succeeding in selling more products in India, which is now the world's most populous nation. Canalys also stated that the iPhone 16 recently sold well and accounted for 55% of total sales. However, Apple currently (Q2 2025) only ranks 6th among all smartphone sellers in India. Anzeige Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden (bsc) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. Even before Microsoft has released the first patches for the serious "ToolShell" vulnerability in self-hosted versions of Sharepoint, the installations of around 100 organizations have been compromised. This was reported by the news agency Reuters, citing the security company Eye Security, which made the vulnerability public and analyzed the attacks on it. Meanwhile, the Washington Post, citing Google's security department Mandiant, adds that at least one of the actors responsible for the first wave of attacks has been traced back to China. According to one of these initial analyses, most of the compromised installations were located in the USA and Germany. Anzeige Read also Critical Sharepoint security vulnerability: First patches are available heise Security The existence of the critical vulnerability in the on-premise versions of Sharepoint was made public by Microsoft at the weekend. Even then, the US company stated that it was aware of attacks on the vulnerable servers, but there was initially no patch. Microsoft merely stated that users should protect themselves with "Microsoft Defender Antivirus". The first updates were later made available for two SharePoint versions, but their installation alone is not enough to provide protection. Microsoft expressly points out that the ASP.Net "machine keys" must always be rotated after the update, which involves an IIS restart. While Microsoft, those responsible for Sharepoint installations and the IT security industry continue to work on securing the vulnerability, the search is on for those who have exploited it. TechCrunch quotes an IT security expert who has observed that the first attacks were directed against a comparatively small number of targets. Now that the vulnerability has become known, many more are likely to be involved in the attempted attacks. There was repeated talk of around 9000 to 10,000 vulnerable Sharepoint instances before the patches became available. The first victims included a large energy company and several government institutions in Europe, the Washington Post quotes findings from Eye Security. (mho) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. Police now suspect three individuals of defamation and have sent the case files to separate prosecutors for review, according to Svenska Yle . One suspect had already been referred to prosecutors in April. Two further suspects were identified and added during the course of the investigation. Helsinki police have concluded their preliminary investigation into a wave of racist abuse directed at Daniela Owusu , who was selected as Finlands 2024 Lucia. Owusu, whose father is Ghanaian and mother is Finnish, became the first non-white person to hold the traditional title of Lucia, a cultural figurehead chosen each year by public vote. Her appointment last November triggered an online backlash that included over 100 racist comments and private messages aimed at her directly. Organisers received thousands more. The Lucia tradition, celebrated annually on 13 December, is coordinated by the health and welfare NGO Folkhalsan, representing Finlands Swedish-speaking minority. The role includes ceremonial appearances at Helsinki Cathedral and a procession through the city. The abuse Owusu received drew national attention. Finnish President Alexander Stubb called the attacks shocking and unequivocally wrong at the time. Owusu began receiving hate messages on 14 November, the same day her selection was announced. A news story in Ilta-Sanomat triggered a surge of abusive posts on the Finnish online forum Ylilauta. Content from that platform, along with videos on TikTok, formed the basis of the police investigation. In a statement to Svenska Yle, Owusu said she welcomed the fact that police had identified some of those responsible. I was expecting more to be identified, but its hard to track people online. Thats why I didnt have particularly high expectations, she said. She also shared examples of the messages, which included racial slurs and calls for her to leave the country. Speaking earlier this summer on Yle Vega, Yles Swedish-language radio station, she recalled one message reading: Get out of here, fucking gingerbread, fucking Muslim, fucking immigrant. Detective Inspector Juha-Matti Suominen, who led the investigation, declined an interview request. In an email response to Svenska Yle, he described the case as routine and not technically difficult. He did not comment on why more suspects had not been identified. Following her nomination, Owusu said she hoped to show young people in Finland that the Lucia title is not limited by heritage or ethnicity. I want to be a role model and prove that anyone can be Lucia, she said at the time. HT Rajala represented Finland at last weeks EU Foreign Affairs Council, where member states formally discussed sanctions against Israel for the first time. He responded to questions from Yle on behalf of Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen , who declined an interview. Pasi Rajala , State Secretary to Finlands Foreign Minister and Defence Minister, confirmed that Finland does not support freezing the EUs association agreement with Israel. The Council discussed EU-Israel relations amid mounting pressure to respond to the situation in Gaza. Over 20 EU states, including Finland, have jointly called for an end to the fighting. Recent reports have alleged Israeli forces killed civilians seeking food aid in Gaza. The humanitarian situation has prompted condemnation across EU capitals. In a statement to BBC, Valtonen said: If this is not a war crime, I dont know what is. Despite such statements, Finland does not currently back freezing the association agreement, which grants Israel trade and research benefits in exchange for adherence to international human rights standards. Most EU countries support continuing dialogue with Israel. Lasting solutions that ensure both Israeli and Palestinian rights and security require diplomacy and political negotiation, Rajala said in a written response to Yle. The agreement is considered strategically important for Israel. The EU is its largest trading partner, and the agreement allows Israel tariff-free access to European markets and eligibility for joint EU projects. Rajala said Finland remains open to reviewing the human rights clause in the agreement but confirmed that the Council made no decisions on the matter last week. He added that Finland supports extending sanctions to violent Israeli settlers and is also open to the Swedish proposal to apply sanctions at ministerial level. Finland supports the idea of targeting violent actors, including ministers, but EU-wide consensus on such measures has not been achieved, he said. The EUs foreign policy decisions require unanimity, which has so far blocked efforts to escalate measures. According to diplomats, divisions within the EU reflect broader political sensitivities among member states. Finlands own government is also divided on Israel policy. While members of the National Coalition Party and the Swedish People's Party show sympathy towards recognising Palestinian statehood, the Christian Democrats and Finns Party oppose such steps. The internal division has led to cautious public messaging. Valtonen has not taken a clear position on tightening the EU-Israel agreement and avoided a direct answer when asked by STT. By contrast, Rajalas comments mark a slightly more direct approach from the Finnish side. He also stressed that all decisions on sanctions are made collectively at EU level. Finland adjusts its policy according to joint EU decisions, he said. The association agreement has faced criticism from human rights groups, who argue that Israel is in breach of its human rights obligations under the pact. Several EU lawmakers have called for its suspension following Israels military actions in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian access. Talks between the EU and Israel have continued regarding aid deliveries. Rajala acknowledged the urgency: It is essential that aid actually reaches Gaza. The humanitarian situation is completely unsustainable. The EU has repeatedly called for unrestricted humanitarian access and condemned actions that obstruct relief efforts. Rajala took up his current post in spring 2024 after serving at Finlands embassy in Washington. He advises both Valtonen and Defence Minister Antti Hakkanen, playing a key role in foreign policy coordination. His remarks underline Finlands cautious stance in a politically sensitive EU debate. While opposing a freeze of the agreement, the government has not ruled out supporting further targeted measures. For now, Finland continues to seek a balance between diplomatic engagement and supporting accountability in the region, aligned with EU decision-making. HT According to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza, 10 people died of malnutrition in the past 24 hours alone, bringing the total to 111 since October 2023. Health officials say the true toll may be higher, as hospitals are unable to reach many areas. More than 100 humanitarian organisations have warned that mass starvation is spreading across Gaza, accusing Israel of obstructing the delivery and distribution of critical supplies. The warning comes amid growing reports of civilians dying from hunger and a sharp rise in malnutrition-related deaths. UN agencies have described the situation as a collapse of basic humanitarian conditions. Starvation is knocking on every door, said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called the crisis a horror show without parallel in recent times. Israel claims it has facilitated the entry of supplies, pointing to 950 trucks' worth of aid waiting at Gazas border. Footage released by an Israeli army spokesperson shows stockpiled goods inside Gaza. However, humanitarian agencies say much of that aid remains inaccessible due to Israeli restrictions, active conflict zones, and lack of safe passage. A joint statement by 115 aid groups, including Save the Children and Medecins Sans Frontieres, describes the situation as a total siege. They say workers are starving and unable to safely deliver food to civilians. The UN-led humanitarian system has not failed, it has been prevented from functioning, the statement reads. The crisis has led to dozens of fatalities among those seeking aid. In recent weeks, over 1,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed while queuing at distribution points. Witnesses say Israeli forces have repeatedly opened fire near aid convoys, despite assurances of safety. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Tuesday that people are now collapsing in the streets due to hunger. Many are unable to access food kitchens, and even basic items like flour and lentils are priced far beyond reach. At Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Dr Ahmad al-Farra said his paediatric unit is overwhelmed with starving children. We feared we would reach this point, and now we have, he said. Dr Deirdre Nunan, a Canadian surgeon working in Gaza, told the BBC that malnourishment is affecting both patients and medical staff. Our nurses dont have enough energy to stand through their shifts, she said. Even healthy adults are now skin and bones. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 30,000 children in Gaza are malnourished. In one case, a child aged five was mistaken for a toddler due to extreme undernourishment, according to WHO representative Dr Rik Peeperkorn. Markets in Gaza are nearly empty. A simple meal of lentils and bread can cost over 600 shekels (150), according to residents. Humanitarian workers say cash assistance from abroad is no longer effective due to commission fees exceeding 50%. Despite the presence of warehouses stocked with food and water, agencies say they are unable to move supplies due to ongoing military operations and lack of Israeli approval for secure delivery routes. The US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has taken over aid coordination since May, replacing international groups. The UN has criticised the GHF-led system as militarised and dangerous for civilians. A recent attempt by international workers to distribute aid in northern Gaza ended with dozens of deaths. On Sunday alone, at least 67 people were killed while waiting for UN aid trucks. Another 39 died a day earlier in separate incidents. In its latest update, the UN said that nearly 88 percent of Gaza is either under evacuation orders or within militarised zones. The entire population of over two million people is now concentrated in less than 50 square kilometres. Aid agencies are demanding an immediate ceasefire, the opening of all land crossings, and a UN-led delivery mechanism. Those we serve are wasting away, the joint letter reads. HT The identities of the EU delegates have not been disclosed. Talks come amid pressure from the United States, which has threatened to impose tariffs of up to 30 percent on EU goods if no agreement is reached by early August. Donald Trump announced on Tuesday evening that representatives from the European Union will arrive in Washington on Wednesday for trade talks with the United States. Europe is coming tomorrow. The day after that, some other countries, Trump said during a White House appearance. That is a hard deadline, Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce, said in a statement on Sunday. Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commissioner for Trade, met last week in Washington with Lutnick and Jamieson Greer, the US Trade Representative. According to Financial Times sources, Sefcovic presented a negative assessment of those discussions to EU ambassadors. The planned negotiations follow months of strained relations between the US and EU over subsidies, digital taxes, and agriculture. Washington has continued to press for increased EU purchases of American liquefied natural gas and for the removal of regulatory barriers on US agricultural exports. In the same statement on Tuesday, Trump also announced a trade agreement with Japan. According to him, the deal includes Japanese investments worth $550 billion into the United States. The agreement sets a 15 percent reciprocal tariff and also includes terms on energy trade, especially liquefied natural gas. Japan is opening up to trade in automobiles, trucks, rice, and certain agricultural products, Trump wrote on his platform Truth Social. He added that negotiations between the US and Japan on energy will continue. The White House said that further meetings with Asian and European trade partners are scheduled later this week. Trump has increased pressure on both Asian and European allies in recent months as part of a broader effort to reduce the US trade deficit. The administration has warned of new tariffs and trade restrictions if negotiations do not yield results. The talks with the EU take place under the shadow of similar threats that preceded the 2018 US-China tariff conflict. The Office of the US Trade Representative has said it expects discussions with the EU to focus on industrial goods, services, digital trade, and regulatory alignment. No formal agenda has been published. A White House official said further updates will follow after initial talks on Wednesday. The European Commission has not issued a public response to Trumps announcement. A spokesperson declined to confirm who would attend the talks or the EUs objectives. HT Protesters gathered outside the presidential office in Kyiv, shouting Veto! Veto! in an appeal to President Volodymyr Zelenskyi , who had already signed the law into effect late Tuesday night. Mass demonstrations broke out in Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities on Tuesday following the signing of a new law that reduces the independence of the countrys key anti-corruption institutions. The legislation grants expanded oversight powers to a presidentially appointed prosecutor, undermining the autonomy of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). The protests are the largest seen in wartime Ukraine since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. Demonstrations were reported in Lviv, Dnipro and Odesa alongside the capital. An 18-year-old student named Vladislava told Reuters in Kyiv, I dont want power to be centralised again. Weve seen where that leads. Another protester, 21-year-old biology student Anastasia, told Politico, The war brought tragedy, but it also showed that our country wants something better. We cant let that progress slip. The demonstrations come at a sensitive moment in Ukraines relationship with the European Union. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos described the law as a serious step backward. She said on X that fighting corruption was a condition for Ukraines membership bid. EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius also criticised the decision, saying that trust between the people and the leadership is more important in war than modern weapons. The legislation was passed by parliament earlier on Tuesday. NABU director Semen Kryvonos had urged Zelenskyi to veto the law, warning it would dismantle the countrys anti-corruption framework. The request was denied. Thousands took to the streets within hours of the announcement. Police presence remained minimal, and the protests were largely peaceful despite the ongoing martial law. The Kyiv Independent reported that the crowd in the capital was the largest public mobilisation since early 2022. Video footage showed hundreds of demonstrators forming a human chain along key government buildings. Ukraines diplomatic partners responded quickly. A Western diplomat told Reuters the law signalled that Ukraines leadership was testing the limits of its international support. There has been no official response from Zelenskyi beyond his brief statement on Instagram, in which he defended the anti-corruption reforms. The infrastructure must be protected from external influence, he wrote. The laws adoption follows mounting frustration inside Ukraine over slow investigations into high-level corruption. Over recent months, several senior officials have faced accusations of mismanagement or abuse of office. Public anger escalated after reports that presidential control over NABU and SAPO would increase, effectively bringing their operations under the executive branch. EU officials stressed that transparency and the separation of powers remain central conditions for Ukraines EU integration. Protesters in Kyiv said they would continue demonstrations until the law is overturned or amended. We came to show we wont accept this, said Stephan, a law student. There was no other choice. Ukraines National Police said no arrests were made and that protest activity was being monitored under wartime regulations. As of Wednesday morning, the atmosphere in Kyiv remained calm. According to Jussi Karakoski, an advisor at the Finnish embassy in Kyiv, the city centre showed no signs of disturbances despite the overnight protests. Local media reported that new rallies are planned for later in the week. Activist groups have also called for international monitoring and statements from Ukraines Western allies. In parallel, peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are scheduled to begin in Istanbul. Ukrainian officials have confirmed the topic of prisoner exchange will be discussed, but both sides have expressed doubt about reaching broader agreements. The laws passage has shifted domestic focus away from diplomacy and back to internal governance and democratic standards. Critics say the presidents move risks alienating international partners and weakening public trust at a critical time. HT Laurel Park is fed up with pace of FEMA aid Laurel Park Mayor Carey O'Cain is shown speaking at the ribbon cutting for the Ecusta Trail on July 18. Throughout the mountains, small towns thrashed by Hurricane Helene have it bad. In Henderson County, none was harder hit than Laurel Park, and the mayor is past losing patience with the pace of federal disaster aid. Related Stories The mayor, Carey OCain, vented to his peers during a meeting last week of the Local Government Committee for Cooperative Action. We have a list of 175 items that are Hurricane Helene related, he said. They amount to anywhere from $20,000 to well over a million dollars each. Were facing about $15 million worth of repair, and we have a $4 million (annual town) budget. So were reaching out to whatever avenues that we can to try to get aid. Although the town has received $2.5 million in low- or no-interest loans, we dont know if they would be forgivable or not, he said. We hope so. Turning to the elected leaders of the county and its four other towns, OCain said: Laurel Park, in all of our applications, has received zero money from FEMA, and yet I see reports all the time that were way ahead and this administration has taken care of us. We feel left out, and our citizens are getting more angry about it all the time that were not repairing roads and damaged land, he continued. We have 25 landslides on our mountain. We have about 25 culverts and washed out roads on our mountain. So we were hit pretty hard, and theyre anxious to get these roads back open. Turning to county commission Chair Bill Lapsley, OCain asked, Have you received any money from FEMA? The answer is yes, he responded. Weve probably got $16 million, in that range, mainly for debris removal. But we have four or five projects that we have submitted application for reimbursement. We were actually the first community in Western North Carolina to apply so we are very frustrated with the response, OCain said. County Manager John Mitchell said he shared OCains frustration and worries whether the total cost of debris removal alone expected to exceed $50 million will be reimbursed. Its a thing which keeps me awake at night and which we talk about at the county commissioners (meetings) all the time, he said. One of the reasons that the county commissioners leaned forward and brought on some additional staff is so that we can get this pipeline moving. Russia said that it expected talks with Ukraine later on Wednesday in Istanbul to be "difficult", downplaying expectations of a breakthrough at a meeting between the two sides after nearly three and a half years of war. Delegations from the two countries have left for Istanbul and are expected to begin talks in the evening. The two sides previously met in Istanbul in May and June, but managed to agree only on exchanges of prisoners and soldiers' bodies. US President Donald Trump last week gave Russia "50 days" to end the war or face sanctions, but the Kremlin has not indicated it is willing to compromise on its demands. "No one expects an easy road," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters when asked about his expectations for the talks. "It will be very difficult," he added. Ukraine said it hoped the two sides would discuss the release of prisoners and lay the ground for a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Moscow has said that "a lot of work" is needed before even discussions can take place about possible talks between Putin and Zelensky, who last met in 2019. The two sides have radically different positions for ending the conflict. Russia has called on Ukraine to effectively retreat from the four Ukrainian regions Moscow claims to have annexed in September 2022, a demand Kyiv has called unacceptable. Ukraine has ruled out any negotiations on territory until after a ceasefire and says it will never recognise Russia's claims over occupied territory -- including Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014. Russia's full-scale invasion, launched in February 2022, has ravaged swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine, killing tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians. Ukraine said former defence minister Rustem Umerov, who currently serves as security council secretary, would head its delegation. The Kremlin said it would send political scientist Vladimir Medinsky to lead its negotiating team. Medinsky, who led the Russian delegation in the two previous rounds of negotiation, is not seen as a powerful decision maker and has been described by Ukraine as a puppet. At the last talks on May 16 and June 2, the two sides agreed to large-scale prisoner exchanges. They also exchanged their draft terms for ending the conflict, which the Kremlin said were "diametrically opposed". Wednesday's talks come as the White House ramps up pressure on Russia to agree a compromise. Trump announced last week he was giving Russia until September to strike a peace deal with Ukraine or face bruising sanctions. The US leader has been trying to broker an end to the war since his inauguration in January, but has failed to extract any concessions from the Kremlin, despite repeated phone calls with Putin. Russia has meanwhile intensified its bombardment of Ukrainian towns and cities, while advancing across several different areas of the front line. Between late Tuesday and early Wednesday, Russia fired 71 drones at four different regions of Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian air force. The Russian defence ministry said Wednesday it had captured the village of Varachyne in Ukraine's northern Sumy region. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last month called on both sides not to "shut the door" on dialogue. Tulsi Gabbard is promising to release more documents after Barack Obama's office dismissed her claims of a "treasonous conspiracy" as "ridiculous" and politically motivated. Gabbard, now serving as director of national intelligence, released a report last week claiming Obama-era officials, including Obama, orchestrated a coordinated push to exaggerate Russian election interference in 2016 to damage Donald Trump. She called it a "manufactured intelligence document" that laid the groundwork for a "years-long coup," according to the Daily Beast. Nonpartisan analysts have pushed back on the claims, saying they misrepresent key facts. A bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee report from 2020, led by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, affirmed that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to help Trump, but found no evidence of a conspiracy or any impact on vote tallies. Obama's office issued a rare public statement, calling Gabbard's allegations a "weak attempt at distraction" and reiterating that "nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes." On Tuesday night Gabbard went on Newsmax to defend her claims, escalating them further. "We will be releasing further documents tomorrow that will refute that statement," she said. She also cited past public comments by Hillary Clinton and former CIA Director John Brennan as proof that the Obama administration helped shape the narrative. "Obama's CIA Director John Brennan says there is strong consensus among us to support the CIA claim Russian hackers aided Donald Trump's election," she said. Trump, who is facing renewed scrutiny over his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein, has amplified Gabbard's claims. Over the weekend, he posted more than a dozen times about Obama, including an AI-generated video of the former president being arrested. During a closed-door meeting with GOP lawmakers, Trump praised Gabbard as the "hottest person in the room" and added, "She has all the documents... You've found things that nobody thought we'd ever find." Originally published on Latin Times In a 911 call made during the home invasion of an "American Idol" producer that resulted in two deaths, someone can be heard begging not to be shot. The bodies of "American Idol" music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, rock musician Tom DeLuca, were discovered on July 14 after they were shot during a July 10 home invasion. Two calls about a burglary were connected to the couple's address the day of the shooting, according to a search warrant affidavit obtained by the Los Angeles Times. In the second call, the caller could be heard saying, "Please don't shoot me," according to the warrant. The call came about 40 minutes after a neighbor called 911 at around 4 p.m. about a potential break in. Although the caller identified themself as a resident, police did not specify if the caller was believed to be Kaye, DeLuca or actually the suspect, who police noted called 911 himself during the incident. Authorities were dispatched to the home the same day of the calls, but were unable to access the home, which was locked and showed no signs of forced entry, according to a felony complaint obtained by PEOPLE. Four days later, police returned to conduct a welfare check. After spotting a trail of blood in the home, police entered the home and found Kaye and DeLuca's bodies shot in the head in separate rooms, police sources told PEOPLE. The Los Angeles Police Department arrested Raymond Boodarian, 22, a day later after police said he identified himself in a call to authorities. He was charged with two counts of murder and one count of residential burglary with a person. During a town hall with local residents Monday night, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the weapon used in the murders belonged to the now-deceased couple, NBC Los Angeles reported. Boodarian's arraignment is scheduled for August 20. Originally published on Latin Times Ukraine's top intelligence official is naming names when it comes to U.S. allies, singling out members of Donald Trump's team who he says have become the country's most vocal advocates. Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's military intelligence service, offered rare praise for key Trump-era officials in a recent interview with the Kyiv Post, despite growing concerns about how a second Trump presidency might affect aid. He credited U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg and Secretary of State Marco Rubio with taking a clear and consistent stance: that continued support for Ukraine is in the United States' strategic interest. Budanov noted that while Trump's position on Ukraine has fluctuated, he has never been an outright opponent. The first American weapons deliveries to Ukraine came during his presidency, he said, and current support reflects pressure applied through diplomacy and ongoing dialogue with Trump's inner circle. Leading that effort, Budanov said, is Kellogg. A retired lieutenant general and former national security adviser under Trump, Kellogg has long pushed for a tougher U.S. posture toward Russia. Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, he has lobbied for long-range missiles, fighter jets, and advanced air defense systems for Ukraine. He has also backed a post-war Marshall Plan and joined negotiations with Western leaders on Ukraine's reconstruction and long-term security. "His position is absolutely clear," Budanov said. "The United States must lead the effort to achieve a just peace." During a recent visit to Ukraine, Kellogg met with top defense officials and inspected Russian weapons systems containing Western-made electronics. Budanov said Kellogg's first-hand view of how sanctions are being bypassed could help persuade other U.S. officials to tighten enforcement. Looking ahead, Budanov said he believes the U.S.-Ukraine relationship will remain strong regardless of who is in the White House. "America is our friend," he said, responding to a question about who could be called "Ukraine's best friends" in Trump's camp. Originally published on Latin Times Set in the vibrant heart of Hungary's capital, just steps from the iconic St. Stephen's Basilica, the newly opened Radisson Collection Hotel, Basilica Budapest brings together historic grandeur and contemporary luxury. With this debut, the brand enters the Hungarian market and sets a bold tone for modern hospitality in Central Europe. Budapest's newest address of distinction Housed in a meticulously restored neoclassical building, formerly a school, the hotel blends its layered past with modern sophistication. Just 50 meters from St. Stephen's Basilica, many of the 71 individually styled rooms and suites offer direct views of the landmark, providing guests with an unforgettable sense of place. Each room features custom-made furnishings, curated artwork, high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush robes, creating a refined yet comfortable experience for business and leisure travelers alike. The hotel also features a boutique fitness area and two private boardrooms that can be connected for intimate meetings or creative sessions. From morning rituals to sunset revelry Those everyday moments - the first coffee of the day, a spontaneous lunch, or a shared dinner - are elevated across the hotel's three distinct dining venues. The Collection Cafe & Lounge offers a street-facing, vintage-inspired space for barista coffee, house-made pastries, and seasonal bites, perfect for a relaxed start to the day or a casual meet-up. The Arc, a bright, all-day bistro, offers international comfort dishes alongside local wines, crafted cocktails, and cold-pressed juices. As the sun sets, ISSEI Skybar & Restaurant becomes the hotel's signature stage, blending Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei cuisine with breathtaking views over Budapest. With its striking design, bold flavors, and curated music evenings, ISSEI offers a rooftop experience that's as much about ambiance as it is about taste. Discover Budapest: A city of character and contrasts Budapest is a city that enchants with contrasts, where imperial architecture meets modern creativity, and historic cafes give way to ruin bars and contemporary galleries. Guests at Radisson Collection Hotel, Basilica Budapest are ideally placed to explore both sides of the Danube: from the Buda Castle District to Pest's dynamic neighborhoods such as the Jewish Quarter and Liberty Square. The city's year-round cultural calendar includes the Sziget Festival, Budapest Art Market, and its celebrated Christmas markets. Whether visiting for business, leisure, or cultural discovery, guests can expect inspiration at every turn and a stay defined by style, comfort, and connection. Experience every season in style From spring festivals and Danube cruises to autumn art shows and festive winter lights, Budapest offers a vibrant backdrop in every season. Whether sipping espresso at dawn or cocktails at golden hour, every stay at Radisson Collection Hotel, Basilica Budapest is framed by one of Europe's most iconic views. For bookings and more information, visit radissonhotels.com. Hotel website Pacifica Hotels, a leading owner and operator of boutique hotels across California and Hawaii, announces a new promotion this quarter. Angel Gonzalez has been promoted to General Manager at Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria. Bringing nearly a decade of experience in boutique and resort properties along California's Central Coast, Gonzalez is known for his hands-on, guest-first leadership style. He previously served as General Manager at Fireside Inn and held the same role at Pelican Inn & Suites, where he advanced through key positions starting in 2016. Before joining Pacifica Hotels, Gonzalez worked at The Tides Oceanview Inn & Cottages, gaining valuable expertise in front office operations, guest services, and team management. Fluent in Spanish and highly adaptable, he excels at creating elevated guest experiences while building motivated, service-driven teams. Pacifica Hotels, a leading owner and operator of boutique hotels across California and Hawaii, announces a new promotion this quarter. Grace Petralia, an award-winning hospitality professional with over 25 years of experience in event management, catering, and hotel sales, has been promoted to Area Director of Sales for Pacifica Hotels in San Diego. In this role, she now oversees La Jolla Cove Hotel and Wayfarer San Diego, two of the region's most sought-after coastal properties. Petralia previously served as Director of Sales for La Jolla Cove Hotel, where she exceeded her annual revenue target by 178% and was named Sales Leader of the Year among more than 30 properties. Prior to joining Pacifica, she held senior sales roles at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in San Diego, specializing in weddings and social events, and at Bekkers Catering, managing large-scale events and daily operations. UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced an appointment to strengthen its leadership team, held by an accomplished female executive - Katharina Dein has been promoted to Vice President Commercial. Katharina Dein was the first member of the GHA Commercial team back in 2013, overseeing a growing portfolio of brands and building strong relationships. Dein has been instrumental in many initiatives, including the development of an online training platform for hotels used by tens of thousands of people across the world. In her new role as Vice President Commercial, Dein will broaden her scope of responsibilities, placing emphasis on optimising the performance of newly integrated properties during their critical launch phase. In addition to overseeing brand onboarding, she will work with the Development team to assess potential new brands while also being involved with identifying and then rolling out new products and services to the alliance's member brands. Leveraging her expertise and holistic understanding of the business, she will play a key role in shaping the value proposition for GHA's member brands. With women making up nearly two-thirds of the total GHA workforce and 60% of the leadership team, the alliance stands out as a leader in championing female representation in the hospitality industry. This appointment comes at a time of strong growth for GHA, with new brands such as Cinnamon Hotels (Sri Lanka), Sunway (Malaysia), and Rotana (UAE) joining in 2025 as the alliance continues to expand and innovate in the travel and hospitality space. UAE-headquartered Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced an appointment to strengthen its leadership team, held by an accomplished female executive - Andrea Krenn takes on the new Senior Vice President Communications role. Andrea Krenn, appointed Senior Vice President Communications, has led global public relations efforts for GHA since 2021, bringing a wealth of international experience in corporate communications and media relations to the company with previous positions held at Atlantis, The Palm and Dubai Tourism before founding her own consultancy. Her strategic approach has strengthened GHA's brand awareness and media presence, supporting the alliance's growth across key markets. In this role, she will continue to lead GHA's global communications strategy to further elevate the alliance's visibility and reputation. With women making up nearly two-thirds of the total GHA workforce and 60% of the leadership team, the alliance stands out as a leader in championing female representation in the hospitality industry. This appointment comes at a time of strong growth for GHA, with new brands such as Cinnamon Hotels (Sri Lanka), Sunway (Malaysia), and Rotana (UAE) joining in 2025 as the alliance continues to expand and innovate in the travel and hospitality space. Luxury consumption in China is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by younger, more dynamic consumers and evolving preferences that go beyond traditional notions of wealth display. This shift is particularly evident in the hospitality sector, where luxury hotels now cater to a deeper desire for sensory and emotional experiences. Despite this growing demand, however, research to date has shed little light on how sensory stimulation shapes luxury hotel experiences or how cultural factors influence consumers responses to luxury. Working with a co-author, Professor Kam Hung and Professor Cathy Hsu of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) explore the multi-sensory dimensions of luxury consumption. Their findings offer guidance for hoteliers seeking to craft meaningful and memorable experiences for their guests. Luxury spending is on the rise in China, which is one of the worlds largest luxury markets. Its evolution is marked by a growing appetite for high-end goods amongst the younger generation and diverse consumer segments with dynamic preferences. Luxury consumption is not static , say the authors. Chinese consumers display a growing attention to decor, leisure, and dining experiences, timeless and chic items, as well as experiential luxury and personalised services. These trends have profoundly influenced the hospitality industry, given Chinese consumers growing interest in luxury travel and hotels potential to offer indulgent experiences. Luxury hotels provide more than high-end facilities to serve guests functional needs , the researchers tell us. These establishments seek to fulfil visitors social, cultural, and emotional needs via sensory stimulation. However, we still know too little about how hotel offerings can enable such connections between customers and hotels. To date, the theory most frequently used to study luxury hotel experiences has been that of conspicuous consumption purchasing high-end goods or services to display ones wealth, prestige or social status. Yet luxury consumption is increasingly understood as a complex construct with multiple dimensions, such as self-actualisation, transformation, sustainability, escapism, hedonic value and authenticity. Among these new dimensions of luxury accommodation , say the researchers, all relate to the exclusive moment when one can sense or feel oneself . It is thus important to examine the multi-sensory modalities of hotel offerings to provide a holistic picture of the luxury hospitality experience and its underlying mechanisms with important implications for marketers and hoteliers. After all, as the authors note, customers feelings about luxury purchases are vital for deep and enduring personbrand links . In addition, the researchers note, few studies have explored luxury from the cultural perspective . For example, disparities exist between Chinese and Western luxury consumers, with the former tending to be younger and the latter more individualistic. However, trends are quick to evolve. As China develops socioeconomically , warn the researchers, scholars may need to reconsider the attributes of modern Chinese society rather than relying on presumptions when studying experience consumption . Together, these research gaps have created a larger lacuna in understanding. Chinese individuals perceptions of the luxury hospitality experience in connection with hotel offerings that stimulate such experiences remain unexplored, especially from a sensory-stimulating standpoint , explain the authors. Hoteliers may not realise how guests view luxury and have experiences with hotel offerings. Seeking to fill these gaps and generate actionable insights for hotel practitioners, the researchers adopted an innovative mental imagery perspective to explore Chinese consumers sensory experiences in luxury hotels. What type of sensory stimulation from luxury hotel offerings might define Chinese consumers experiences? they asked. How do Chinese consumers perceive experiential consumption in luxury hotels? Mental imagery afforded a novel lens through which to address these questions. Examples [] in daily life include daydreaming , the authors explain. This ubiquitous mental event enables people to re-experience the past or to envision the future. It thus has an important part to play in consumer decision-making and behaviour. a field in which it has been extensively studied. Surprisingly, however, mental imagery has received little attention in the hotel context, even though customers often encounter hotels for the first time through their imaginations. To capture this important construct, the researchers adopted the Zaltman metaphor elicitation technique (ZMET), which uncovers information that cannot be easily expressed in words (i.e. using visual and sensory images). This approach is well suited to exploring consumers multisensory experiences during luxury hotel stays , the authors note. Using ZMET, they interviewed 16 participants who had either stayed or engaged in a consumption experience at an upscale hotel within the previous 12 months. Before the interviews, the participants were asked to choose photos depicting their most memorable luxury experiences at hotels and their reactions to these experiences. During the interviews, they were invited to describe the feelings tied to these images; deconstruct the sensory elements of taste, touch, sound, smell and sight; craft visual stories of their ideal stay; and create mental maps to illustrate the key aspects of their experiences. Meticulous analysis of the interview data both verbal and non-verbal revealed three categories of experiences described by the participants: supportive, personal/social and affective. Supportive experiences encompassed hotel guests direct experiences drawn from sensory interactions amid exclusive services, spectacular views, dining experiences, artistic decor, hotel ambience, large spaces, and facilities , the researchers report. These supportive experiences in turn prompted personal/social experiences such as social connections in situations like family gatherings and me time while alone. Affective experiences manifested from personal/social experiences , the researchers add. Participants reported feeling comfortable, relaxed, happy, peaceful, healed and prestigious. In terms of supportive experiences, exclusive services such as customised complimentary gifts representing extraordinary service quality rarely found in low-end hotels made the guests feel happy, healed, respected and more. Exquisite dining experiences were a source of comfort and relaxation, and large spaces also afforded a sense of privacy. Turning to personal/social experiences, guests felt that the cleanliness of luxury hotels provided a safe environment for their children, while others relied on luxury hotels to provide a comfortable experience for senior family members. Some of the participants valued the opportunity to enjoy me time and temporarily escape from the everyday while travelling alone. Feeling relaxed was the most common affective experience among the luxury hotel guests, triggered by spectacular views, ambience and exclusive services. Happiness came second, prompted by the senses of taste and smell, followed by comfort, which was usually connected with smell and touch. Interestingly, feeling prestigious was the least frequently reported affective experience, inconsistent with the conspicuous consumption theory of luxury purchasing. With the rise of luxury consumption in China, this study provides much-needed insights into Chinese consumers luxury experiences in hotel settings via mental imagery, accounting for multiple sensory modalities and using both verbal and nonverbal data. The findings provide solid evidence of the interdependence of experience constructs in high-end hotel settings. Put simply, consumption experiences evolve out of one another , the researchers tell us. Together, these findings have important implications for the luxury hotel sector, in China and beyond. When marketing experiential products, advise the authors, practitioners should view consumers as emotional beings to create pleasant experiences . The top three experience stimulators in this study were exclusive services, facilities and artistic decor, each of which should be prioritised. As exclusive services were the most important trigger of guests happiness, luxury hotels should strive to go above and beyond to offer an exemplary service. Kam Hung, Cathy H.C. Hsu and Xiaotao Yang (2024). Constructing a Sensory Model of Chinese Luxury Hotel Experiences from Mental Imagery Perspective. Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing, Vol. 41, Issue 6, pp. 791810. About PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management For more than four decades, the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has refined a distinctive vision of hospitality and tourism education and become a world-leading hotel and tourism school. Ranked No. 1 in the world in the "Hospitality and Tourism Management" category in ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024 for the eighth consecutive year; placed No. 1 globally in the "Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services" category in the University Ranking by Academic Performance in 2023/2024 for seven years in a row; rated No. 1 in the world in the "Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism" subject area by the CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017; and ranked No. 1 in Asia in the "Hospitality and Leisure Management" subject area in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, the SHTM is a symbol of excellence in the field, exemplifying its motto of Leading Hospitality and Tourism. The School is driven by the need to serve its industry and academic communities through the advancement of education and dissemination of knowledge. With a strong international team of over 90 faculty members from 21 countries and regions around the world, the SHTM offers programmes at levels ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees. Through Hotel ICON, the School's groundbreaking teaching and research hotel and a vital aspect of its paradigm-shifting approach to hospitality and tourism education, the SHTM is advancing teaching, learning and research, and inspiring a new generation of passionate, pioneering professionals to take their positions as leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry. Website: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/shtm/. Tiffany Chan Marketing Manager at School of Hotel and Tourism Management Hong Kong PolyU How safe do LGBTQ+ people feel when travelling? Where is social acceptance most noticeable? For the first time, together with Diversity Tourism and A3M Global Monitoring, ITB Berlin has conducted a survey among queer travellers. While Canada and Spain are consistently perceived as safe, social acceptance in Germany remains rather cautious, despite equal legal rights. The USA on the other hand reflects a deep divide where regional differences are evident. A3M has now published its latest LGBTQ+ Risk Map 2025 documenting developments worldwide. ITB Berlin, the Worlds Leading Travel Trade Show, has long set standards when it comes to highlighting and documenting diversity in tourism. As a trailblazer in this field, together with Diversity Tourism, consultants for LGBTQ+ tourism and diversity marketing, and the security analysts A3M Global Monitoring, it was first to undertake a comprehensive survey of queer travellers experiences. The survey, titled Perceptions and Experiences of LGBTQ+ Travellers, was conducted between December 2024 and April 2025. Its findings will also be incorporated into topics at the upcoming ITB Berlin from 3 to 5 March 2026. The survey specifically targeted queer travellers from the ITB and LGBTQ+ community (via newsletter, social media, the website and the LGBTQ+ travel portal Tomontour.de) and contained 16 questions about subjective perceptions of social acceptance, equal legal rights, safety in dealing with authorities, experiences with the police, healthcare systems and use of social networks. In addition, in-depth interviews were conducted with LGBTQ+ tourism experts and frequent travellers. The aim was not only to look at the overall legal situation, but above all to capture individual perceptions of safety and the actual experiences of queer people on their regular travels reflecting a broader scope and offering more detail. The survey for the first time offers a deeper insight into the personal experiences of queer travellers worldwide an important step towards putting objective safety ratings into the context of personal perspectives. Irrespective of not being statistically representative it provides a robust qualitative basis. We take the findings very seriously and will incorporate them into further developing our LGBTQ+ segment at ITB Berlin. We are fully committed to promoting LGBTQ+ travel not just during the trade show but 365 days a year. Ramona Zaun, LGBTQ+ commissioner at ITB Berlin Initial findings: Strong signals but not without challenges Canada and Spain top the list of countries perceived as safe for travel. In both countries, 100 % of respondents confirm that LGBTQ+ people are treated with respect. Showing affection in public is also considered unproblematic in Spain (90 %) and Canada (71 %). The majority experience the police as supportive in both countries. In contrast, the verdict on the USA is mixed: only around one-third agree that queer couples can openly show affection and that the police are LGBTQ+ friendly. What is particularly striking is the widely divergent ratings an indication of significant regional differences between progressive cities and more conservative regions. The views on Germany are ambivalent. Despite progressive legislation, social acceptance is seen as half-hearted. Only around half of respondents feel at ease as LGBTQ+ people in public or say they are treated equally by the authorities. One key finding is that not all groups within the LGBTQ+ community feel equally safe. In almost all countries, differences were noted between gay men and transgender or intersex people the latter group experiencing discrimination much more often. Note: the overall feedback (123) for the survey was high. However, in the case of 18 of the 36 countries examined only one rating was given. To provide a minimum valid basis for subjective views only countries with at least four ratings were assessed. A closer look at the findings The one-hour expert interviews confirmed many of the surveys findings and provided further context: In South America , for example in Brazil, Chile and Peru , queer travellers generally experience a high level of tolerance in tourist regions despite some restrictive legislation. , for example in and , queer travellers generally experience a high level of tolerance in tourist regions despite some restrictive legislation. In China and Dubai too the authorities are often pragmatic as long as queer travellers behave discreetly. and too the authorities are often pragmatic as long as queer travellers behave discreetly. Transgender and intersex people face particular challenges worldwide, for example unrecognised gender entries in passports or untrained staff at security checks face particular challenges worldwide, for example unrecognised gender entries in passports or untrained staff at security checks Obstacles are mounting particularly in the USA , where recognition of non-binary identities has been reversed. , where recognition of non-binary identities has been reversed. In Spain on the other hand social acceptance is described as being firmly established cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and areas on the Mediterranean as well as the Canary Islands are considered particularly LGBTQ+ friendly. on the other hand social acceptance is described as being firmly established cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and areas on the Mediterranean as well as the Canary Islands are considered particularly LGBTQ+ friendly. One interesting observation is that younger queer travellers from Western societies react more sensitively to restrictions on public behaviour, whereas members of the older generation, having grown up with discrimination, are more willing to adapt on their travels. Right now the safety situation for queer travellers is changing rapidly in some parts not just in legal terms but in society as well. Many LGBTQ+ people now live more confidently and openly and with that there is a growing need for safety guidance. Legal frameworks on their own are frequently not enough. What matters is how safe people actually feel at a destination. That is precisely where our joint survey comes in. Thomas Bomkes, managing director of Diversity Tourism und LGBTQ+, and tourism adviser to ITB Berlin The survey is to be conducted annually in future in order to systematically track developments. Positive developments in 2024/2025 Dominica : Decriminalisation of homosexual acts by the Supreme Court (April 2024). : Decriminalisation of homosexual acts by the Supreme Court (April 2024). Namibia : The High Court declared the criminalisation of same-sex acts unconstitutional and repealed the relevant laws. (June 2024). : The High Court declared the criminalisation of same-sex acts unconstitutional and repealed the relevant laws. (June 2024). Germany : Since November 2024 the new Self-Determination Act has strengthened the rights of transgender, intersex and non-binary people. : Since November 2024 the new Self-Determination Act has strengthened the rights of transgender, intersex and non-binary people. Thailand: Legalisation of same-sex marriages in January 2025. Setbacks in human rights Iraq : Introduction of harsh criminal laws against homosexuality in April 2024. : Introduction of harsh criminal laws against homosexuality in April 2024. Mali : New laws criminalising same-sex relationships in December 2024. : New laws criminalising same-sex relationships in December 2024. Trinidad and Tobago : Repeal of an earlier liberal ruling in March 2025 homosexuality is now a criminal offence again. : Repeal of an earlier liberal ruling in March 2025 homosexuality is now a criminal offence again. Georgia: Wide-ranging anti-LGBTQ+ legislation introduced in September 2024. Outlook: A network for queer travellers safety A3M plans to set up an international network for LGBTQ+ travellers safety which will collect and provide access to experiences, data and recommendations to ensure better visibility, safety, and respect worldwide. Cvent, a global industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, successfully hosted the fourth edition of Cvent Accelerate Sydney at The Fullerton Hotel on Wednesday, 16 July 2025. The event attracted over 460 event planners, marketers, and hospitality professionals, setting a new attendance record and highlighting the growing momentum in the MICE industry. Cvent Accelerate Sydney equipped attendees with essential skills and insights to thrive in the evolving events industry. They gained practical knowledge on leveraging the latest event technology to create memorable experiences and drive business growth. Industry-experts led sessions highlighted strategies for designing, engaging and crafting impactful events, emphasising the importance of creativity and innovation. Attendees learned effective collaboration techniques and sponsorship strategies to enhance event success and manage costs. The event offered a comprehensive understanding of how to adapt to industry changes, ensuring attendees are well-prepared to deliver exceptional events that resonate with their audiences and achieve organisational goals. Attendees also explored Cvents innovative AI-powered solution, CventIQ. This solution offers a suite of intelligent features designed to enhance attendee experiences and optimise event management. Participants experienced firsthand the benefits of AI-enabled personal assistants, customised session recommendations, and streamlined networking opportunities. With the successful completion of Cvent Accelerate Sydney, Im thrilled to see the powerful impact its had on both our attendees and the broader MICE industry. This years event marked a clear strategic shift toward Event-Led Growthreframing events from operational tasks into engines of customer acquisition and retention. Attendees walked away with tangible insights on how to position events as primary channels for driving growth, rather than supplementary tactics. By highlighting the fusion of technology, strategy, and community, Cvent Accelerate empowered industry leaders to create unforgettable experiences that deliver real business outcomes and long-term brand loyalty. Jack Ukil, Country Head, Australia, Cvent While customer engagement and experience have become critical factors in redefining event management, Cvent Accelerate showcased the transformative power of blending events, MarTech, and data to enhance customer engagement. Insights around event retention, planning, management, and technology's role in advancing sustainability goals fostered greater collaboration among venues, organisers, and suppliers. Innovators shared insights on using attendee foot traffic to generate power and implementing aeroponics to reduce food waste. Additionally, Cvent, in partnership with ZEERO Events, continued its commitment to sustainability at Cvent Accelerate with an initiative to plant 283 trees in Mozambique's mangrove reforestation project. This effort, along with investments in UN Renewable Energy Projects, will reduce 46 tons of CO2e. In addition to this, 115 trees were gifted, achieving further reduction of 18,871 kg of CO2e by replacing traditional promotional items with ZEERO Events tree swag for attendees. Cvent Accelerate continues to strengthen the fabric of the event industry in its fourth year, fostering collaboration and creating a dynamic space for professionals to exchange ideas and strategies. Extended Stay America, the leading mid-priced extended stay hotel brand family in the United States, today announced the launch of Client Connect, the first business travel program designed exclusively for extended stay business travelers. The new program brings together the company's comprehensive suite of business travel services under one unified program, offering personalized partnerships, competitive rates and streamlined booking solutions. As the leader in extended stay for over 30 years, we've built our success on truly connecting with our clients and understanding their unique needs and challenges. Our clients tell us that what sets Extended Stay America apart is the high touch service our team provides to travel planners and genuine care we provide to guests. Client Connect formalizes that relationship-first approach, bringing together our collective services under one dedicated program that deepens our partnership with travel managers and business travelers. Kelly Poling, Chief Commercial Officer, Extended Stay America Addressing Unique Extended Stay Needs and Challenges Client Connect was developed in response to the distinct needs of business travelers requiring accommodations for weeks or months. Unlike traditional business travel programs focused on shorter-term stays, Client Connect offers solutions tailored to construction crews, traveling nurses, military personnel and other professionals with extended stay requirements. The program provides dedicated account management, affordable rates with increased savings on longer stays, flexible policies including easy stay extensions. Client Connect also features streamlined booking through a business-friendly website and mobile app, plus a Direct Bill Program that simplifies invoice management and payment processing for business travel managers. As the leader in the extended stay space, we know our clients need more than just accommodations they need a true partner who understands their business challenges and provides proactive solutions that keep their teams productive and comfortable. Client Connect delivers exactly that with cost-effective solutions, policies, and client-focused support that makes managing longer stays easier. Tim Horan, Group Vice President, Extended Stay America Three Decades of Extended Stay Leadership Extended Stay America is the industry pioneer in extended stay business travel, with over three decades of experience serving diverse industries from healthcare and construction to government and military. Client Connect leverages Extended Stay America's nationwide network of more than 700 locations, each featuring amenities designed for longer stays, including fully equipped kitchens, spacious, fully-furnished suites, free wi-fi, free breakfast,*onsite guest laundry, and pet-friendly accommodations. The program is available immediately to business clients, andwill serve as the foundation for even more new enhancements currently in development that will further expand Client Connect's value for extended stay travelers and planners. For more information about Client Connect, visit www.esa.com/client-connect. About Extended Stay America Extended Stay America is the leading mid-priced extended stay hotel brand in the U.S., with more than 700 hotels. Committed to delivering value and genuine goodness to every guest at every location, the Extended Stay brand family includes Extended Stay America Premier Suites, Extended Stay America Suites, and Extended Stay America Select Suites. For more information or to book, please visit www.esa.com and follow @ExtendedStay. Global Asset Solutions has released the latest version of its online training course with additional features including a new commercial module. The course draws on the decades of experience gained by Global Asset Solutions as it grew to be the largest independent asset manager in EMEA and APAC, with assets under management worth over $20bn. The companys continuing involvement in the sector means that the course remains up-to-date, providing real tangible examples, addressing current issues and trends. Hotel asset management has moved into the mainstream as an essential aspect of a hotels operations, drawing on specialist knowledge to optimise a property. The programme ensures that graduates are able to make decisions critical to a propertys optimisation, based on market knowledge and in-depth experience. Alex Sogno, CEO, Global Asset Solutions The additional segment of the course explores key financial tools used by hotel asset managers, as well as emphasising the importance of integrating revenue management, sales, and marketing. Using real-life case studies, the chapter highlights how strategic commercial decisions influence guest experience, profitability and team motivation. The online course includes classes, testing and case studies, concluding in an assessment. The course certificate is awarded by Global Asset Solutions and the International Luxury Hotel Association. This certificate is tailored towards hotel owners, bankers, investors, lenders, operators (e.g., regional VP or GMs), students and anyone involved in hotel real estate who wants to update their skills and learn about asset management. This course was initially built as an academic program, but since rewritten and improved to current business environment, with concrete professional experiences. The course, which is fully supported by the highly-qualified GAS team, also offers a Merit Access Program of discounted fees to select students to encourage and reward dedication and talent worldwide. This program is open to any individual who can demonstrate strong motivation, relevant experience, and shows the ambition to grow in the field. Enroll here About Global Asset Solutions Global Asset Solutions operates worldwide providing independent hotel asset management services. Clients include PE firms, institutional investors, sovereign funds and family offices, with over $20bn of assets managed in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The company leans on decades of experience in the luxury sector to deliver bespoke solutions which allow investors to grow their asset value and realise the potential of their assets. www.globalassetsolutions.com Navigating the AI-Driven Search Landscape: New SEO Strategies for Hotels - By Trish Leighton - Image Credit Vizergy The world of search is evolving, and fast. As Vizergys Senior Manager of Search, over the past year Ive seen significant shifts in Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs), largely driven by the integration of Artificial Intelligence. For hotels, understanding and adapting to these changes isn't just an option it's essential for maintaining visibility and driving direct bookings. My team of highly skilled SEO pros has been working diligently to crack the code on these changes and find the best ways to move the needle in the AI space. Weve been testing some tactics and have seen some significant results so far with a few of our strategies. The drastic changes weve seen over the last year can be overwhelming, but were here to help you understand and create an action plan moving forward. The New Face of the Search Engine Results Page (SERP) Historically, weve seen the same key elements in the Search Engine Results Page (SERP): ads placed at the top, a map or local listings beneath, and organic results taking up the rest of the page. A knowledge graph or Google Business Profile (GBP) for branded searches is on the right and pagination on the bottom. Now you'll find a richer, more complex landscape with significantly less space for traditional organic results. We're seeing more map packs, carousel ads, "People Also Ask" sections, and crucially, new "More hotels" sections featuring additional metasearch ads. Organic listings are often pushed further down the page, often below the fold, requiring users to scroll extensively. Take this search for hotels near a landmark in San Antonio, for example: Were only seeing a handful organic search results, which is a substantial reduction in the number of organic results weve been shown in the past. Google has also removed the pagination and changed the experience to a continuous scroll in many searches. But this isnt anything new Google changes this landscape frequently aiming to deliver a rich set of search results. Therefore, we must focus efforts on ways to get visibility within these facets of the landscape since ads and features dominate SERPs far more than organic results. What is Googles AI Overview? The most prominent new player in Google search is the AI Overview. Depending on the query, this AI-generated summary can appear at the top of the SERPs for a significant percentage of searches. The AI Overview is comprised of a variety of sources including hotel and attraction websites as well as online publications and other travel-related or relevant websites. The existence of the AI overview has already shown to lead to a reduction in website clicks since its intelligent and well-developed answers tend to answer the query right there in the results instead of requiring further action. However, we dont anticipate to see a huge shift in click-through-rate for lower funnel travel searches since the user would still need to take some action to complete a purchase in the end. From Keywords to Conversations: Shifting Search Behavior The rise of AI in search means a fundamental shift in how users search and, consequently, how we should optimize. While traditional keyword research still has its place, the emphasis is now on understanding and answering conversational, intent-based queries. People are asking longer, more detailed questions, expecting AI to provide highly relevant, comprehensive answers. They can also ask follow-up questions to refine their answers. Instead of just optimizing for "hotels near Disneyland," think about queries like: "Where can I stay for the Warped Tour in Orlando?" or "I need a family-friendly hotel with a pool near Yosemite." Your content needs to address these specific problems and provide detailed solutions. Optimizing for AI: Your New SEO Toolkit I know youre probably thinking, Okay, great. How do I get our website to show up in the AI results? 1. Master Schema Markup This is the "language" search engines speak. Implementing specific schema for hotels, restaurants, events, and attractions helps search engines (and AI) quickly understand the context and details of your pages. By connecting your hotel to nearby venues or on-site services through schema, you significantly increase your chances of appearing in AI Overviews for relevant queries. This is particularly powerful when your property is genuinely relevant to the search. For example, the page about your onsite wedding venue can contain hotel markup, event venue markup, and also markup for particular attributes and amenities, like catering services, wedding packages to take advantage of, the onsite restaurant and spa for the rehearsal dinner and bridal party, and so much more. This provides extensive details and context for search engines to match queries related to wedding experiences. 2. Rethink Your Content Strategy Be Detailed & Specific : Provide rich, factual content that directly answers potential guest questions. Balance engaging brand voice with concrete information. : Provide rich, factual content that directly answers potential guest questions. Balance engaging brand voice with concrete information. Structure is Key : Use clear headings (H1s, H2s), lists, and organized formats to make your content easily digestible for both users and AI crawlers. : Use clear headings (H1s, H2s), lists, and organized formats to make your content easily digestible for both users and AI crawlers. Leverage FAQs : A well-structured FAQ section is gold. Beyond administrative questions, include answers to common guest queries about local points of interest, amenities, or unique hotel features. These are often cited in "People Also Ask" sections and AI Overviews. : A well-structured FAQ section is gold. Beyond administrative questions, include answers to common guest queries about local points of interest, amenities, or unique hotel features. These are often cited in "People Also Ask" sections and AI Overviews. Strong Homepage & About Page: Ensure your homepage is detailed with amenities and room summaries and use your About page to provide rich historical or unique selling point content. 3. Cultivate Citations While not always easy to obtain, mentions and links from high-authority industry sources (like travel publications or local tourism boards) can significantly boost your credibility and help you appear in AI-powered results, even if your site isn't directly sourced. The Bottom Line The digital landscape is constantly evolving, but by focusing on providing detailed, structured, and accessible content, leveraging powerful schema markup, and understanding user intent, hotels can continue to thrive. It's about meeting your guests where they are in the new, conversational world of AI search. Trish is the Senior Manager, Search Marketing Services at Vizergy Digital Marketing. Connect with Trish on LinkedIn. About Vizergy Digital Marketing For over 25 years, Vizergy has served the hospitality industry with leading marketing technologies and exceptional service for clients worldwide. Vizergys platform is easy to use, turnkey, and SMART continually enhanced to help hotels compete within the market and maximize revenue. By leveraging a data-first approach, hospitality marketing is not only the mission, but Vizergys sole focus. Reach out to our team for more information. Image Credit A3M Global Monitoring ITB Berlin, Diversity Tourism, and A3M Global Monitoring have released findings from a survey conducted between December 2024 and April 2025, examining the safety perceptions of LGBTQ+ travelers. The survey, titled "Perceptions and Experiences of LGBTQ+ Travellers," gathered responses from the LGBTQ+ community via newsletters, social media, and the Tomontour.de travel portal. It included 16 questions focusing on social acceptance, legal rights, safety with authorities, and experiences with police and healthcare systems. The survey results indicate that Canada and Spain are perceived as the safest destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers, with respondents reporting high levels of respect and acceptance. In Canada, 100% of participants reported receiving respectful treatment, while 90% in Spain felt comfortable showing affection in public. Both countries were also recognized for supportive police interactions. Conversely, the United States presented mixed results, with only about one-third of respondents feeling comfortable displaying affection or finding the police LGBTQ+ friendly. The survey highlighted significant regional disparities, with progressive cities differing from more conservative areas. In Germany, despite progressive legal frameworks, social acceptance remains cautious. Approximately half of the respondents felt at ease in public or believed they were treated equally by authorities. The survey also revealed disparities within the LGBTQ+ community, with transgender and intersex individuals facing more frequent discrimination compared to gay men. The feedback, collected from 123 participants, was deemed robust, though only countries with at least four responses were included in the analysis. Expert interviews conducted alongside the survey provided additional context. In South America, countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Peru demonstrated high tolerance levels in tourist regions despite restrictive legislation. In China and Dubai, authorities were described as pragmatic if travelers remained discreet. However, challenges persist for transgender and intersex travelers, particularly regarding unrecognized gender entries in passports and the lack of training for security staff. The survey's findings will be incorporated into the upcoming ITB Berlin event scheduled for March 3-5, 2026, and will inform future developments in the LGBTQ+ travel segment. A3M Global Monitoring has also published its LGBTQ+ Risk Map 2025, documenting global developments in LGBTQ+ rights. Positive changes noted in the map include the decriminalization of homosexual acts in Dominica and Namibia, and the legalization of same-sex marriages in Thailand. However, setbacks were observed in Iraq, Mali, Trinidad and Tobago, and Georgia, where new laws have restricted LGBTQ+ rights. A3M plans to establish an international network for LGBTQ+ traveler safety, aiming to enhance visibility, safety, and respect worldwide. The survey will be conducted annually to track ongoing developments systematically. Discover more at ITB Berlin. Clark Art Presents Discussion on Ground/work Sculpture WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. On Saturday, July 26 at 1 pm, the Clark Art Institute presents the first installment in the Ground/work 2025: A Close Look discussion series. In these events, through guided conversation and reflection, participants consider how each artist's work is in active dialogue with the Clark's natural environment. On July 26, a Clark educator leads a close examination and in-depth discussion around the outdoor sculpture Gathering My Thoughts by British artist Laura Ellen Bacon. Using willow branches that are tied, looped, and woven together, Bacon's process evokes basket-weaving and the nest-building of birds. This event meets at the Lunder Center at Stone Hill. The Classical Beat: Late July is High Season for Tanglewood, Sevenars By late July, the peak of the summer classical music festival high season has arrived, anchored by concerts at Tanglewood in Lenox and at Sevenars Concerts in South Worthington; both festivals offer sure-fire and enticing, yet diverse and innovative contemporary programming. Offerings this week include revelatory chamber and orchestral works, with the focus on the 5-day Tanglewood Festival of Contemporary Music in Ozawa Hall and at the Linde Center Studio E (read below for the details). Boston Symphony performances include classical works by Bach, Mahler. Mendelssohn and Saint-Saens, as well as a major Festival highlight: the not-to-be-missed premiere in the Shed on Saturday, July 26 of a Piano Concerto composed by John Williams for Emanuel Ax and the Boston Symphony, conducted by maestro Andris Nelsons. TANGLEWOOD FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC Grammy Award-winning composer Gabriela Ortiz curates the Tanglewood's annual five-day Festival of Contemporary Music, from Thursday, July 24-Monday, July28. "She is one of the most vibrant and visionary voices in music today. Her music bridges both tradition and innovation, drawing inspiration from both Mexican folk music and political and social themes." Her works form the core of this summer's Festival, which also includes compositions by other major figures in contemporary Mexican music: Chavez, Ortiz, Lavista, Roldan, and Marquez. Read on for concert details covering July 25-27: Friday, July 25, Shed, at 8:00 p.m.: Maestro Andris Nelsons leads the BSO in a program of Bach (the 'Air' from the Orchestral Suite No. 3,) Mahler (the tragic 'Adagio' from the composer's unfinished Symphony No. 10,) and two works of Mendelssohn the beloved Violin Concerto, with soloist Maria Duenas, and the concluding overture "Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage." Saturday, July 26, Shed, at 8:00 p.m.: In an auspicious premiere, John Williams' Piano Concerto, with soloist Emanuel Ax will receive its performance with the BSO under the baton of Maestro Nelsons. Fittingly, Gustav Mahler's jubilant Symphony No. 1 concludes the program. Sunday, July 27, Shed, at 2:30 p.m.: The immensely popular pianist Lang Lang is the soloist in Saint-Saens' Piano Concerto No. 2. The program opens with Gabriela Ortiz' "La Calaca" for string orchestra and concludes with Beethoven's arcadian Symphony No. 6 ('Pastoral.') Andris Nelsons directs the Boston Symphony. For tickets to all Tanglewood events, call (888) 266-1200, or go online at tanglewood.org. SEVENARS MUSIC FESTIVAL Sunday, July 28, at 4:00 p.m. Sevenars Concerts presents its third program, featuring the Springfield Chamber Players clarinet quintet. Described as "a feast of music," the program includes works by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Alexander Borodin, Paul Chihara, and Bernard Herrmann. The quintet members are Springfield, MA Symphony Orchestra musicians. Sevenars' performances take place in The Academy, located at 15 Ireland Street just off Rte. 112 at Ireland Street, South Worthington, MA. For information, call 413-238-5854 (please leave a message for return call.) Online: sevenars.org. Admission is by donation at the door (suggested $20.) Refreshments are included. As always, the place to be for great classical and stimulating new music is right here in our own intimate corner of the world - the Berkshires - a designated "cultural capital," where artistic boundaries are nonexistent. The Bidwell House Museum: Plan, Form and Construction SHEFFIELD, Mass. Architectural historian Eric Gradoia will discuss the Bidwell House Museum as an example of 18th century New England domestic architecture. The talk will be held on July 26 at 11 am at the Bidwell House Museam. This in-Person event costs $15 for members and $25 for Non-Members $25. Via zoom the event is free for members and $15 for non members. According to a press release: The Bidwell house is a fascinating example of New England vernacular architecture. A product of several building campaigns, the core of the house was built c.1760, with additions made to it at different times throughout the 19th century. This talk will look at the Bidwell house as a regional example of eighteenth century domestic architecture, using it to explore common house types and floor plans of the period, along with the materials and technology used in the construction of these homes. Eric Gradoia is an Architectural Historian with the Albany firm of Mesick, Cohen, Wilson, Baker Architects. Prior to his current position, Mr. Gradoia was the Director of Historic Preservation at Historic Deerfield, where he was responsible for the repair and restoration of the museum's fifty-five buildings which range in age from the early eighteenth-century to the late twentieth-century. Mr. Gradoia has worked as an adjunct faculty member in the Historic Preservation Program at Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island and the Boston Architectural College (BAC). Early in his career, Mr. Gradoia worked as project manager for the Massachusetts Preservation Projects Fund (MPPF), administered by the Massachusetts State Preservation Office. Gradoia has his undergraduate degree in Historic Preservation from Roger Williams University and his M.S in Historic Preservation from the University of Vermont. As a graduate student, Gradoia participated in the US/ICOMOS International Exchange Program as an intern with the National Trust in North Yorkshire, England at Fountains Abbey. Gradoia's primary expertise is in 17th, 18th, and 19th century vernacular architecture, construction technology, and domestic conveniences. This lecture will be in-person at the Bidwell House Museum and will also be viewable via Zoom. Zoom attendees must register in advance in order to receive the Zoom link and due to limited space at the Museum, we do ask in-person attendees to also register in advance. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Chinese authorities warned comedians against stirring up gender discord in the Asian country after a video of a performer talking about her marriage went viral. In a notice issued over the weekend, the Zhejiang provincial publicity department criticised comedy shows for becoming a "battlefield" and simplifying gender issues into opposition between men and women. The authorities called out The King of Stand-up Comedy show on streaming platform iQiyi but did not name any comedian. The caution came after a number of recent performances by women comedians related to gender bias gained popularity in the country. Womens rights in China remain a contentious issue, with the government accused of systematically dismantling almost all expressions of independent feminist activism over the past decade, including the MeToo movement. Criticism is fine, the notice on WeChat said but stressed that it should be constructive rather than revolve around gender opposition for the sake of being funny. It suggested that instead of "mocking blindly confident men, comedy was much better used exploring the social causes for this mentality. "Instead of blindly ridiculing 'materialistic women', it is better to reflect on how consumerism shapes gender roles," it added. "We sincerely hope that the rising stand-up comedy scene can become more rational and profound, with less division and more understanding." The King of Stand-up Comedy featured a performance earlier this month by 50-year-old comedian Fan Chunli, popularly known by her stage name Fangzhuren, that revolved around her marriage and why she had left her husband. Members of the audience were moved to tears and clips from the show went viral on Chinese social media. The Zhejiang warning was criticised on social media for being overly sensitive when "something is discussed from a female perspective". "Simply stating the facts now counts as inciting conflict between men and women? a commentator on Weibo asked. The Independent has reached out to iQiyi for comment. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A court in Hong Kong has ruled in favour of a transgender individual who challenged a regulation criminalising the use of bathrooms that do not align with their chosen gender identity, a step toward recognising the rights of transgender people in the Chinese financial hub. Judge Russell Coleman on Wednesday suspended the effect of the ruling for a year. The suspended ruling is to consider whether it wishes to implement a way to deal with the contravention. The judge said the rules banning transgender people from using the bathroom matching their gender identity are discriminatory and violate the right to equality under Hong Kongs Basic Law. He said in the judgment that the regulations and "drawing the line of a person's biological sex at birth create a disproportionate and unnecessary intrusion into the privacy and equality rights". The decision came on the complaint of a person identified as K, who was born a woman and identifies as a man in 2022. K launched a legal petition to allow transgender people to use public toilet that aligns with their identified gender. K called to expand the exemption in the Public Conveniences (Conduct and Behaviour) Regulations to those transgender people who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and have a medical need to undergo the process of living in their identified gender. This is a matter of the line-drawing, which seems to me to be a question for the government or legislature to address, Mr Coleman wrote in his judgment. He said the matter of drawing a line between a female person and a male person is an answer not appropriately given by the courts, and is more appropriately a matter for legislation. Currently, only children under 5 years old accompanied by an opposite sex adult can enter a public washroom designated for the opposite sex. Those violating the rule face a fine of up to 2,000 Hong Kong dollars (about $255). This marks the latest step towards recognising the rights of LGBTQ+ people in Hong Kong, which has in recent years revised policies for the community after legal challenges. Earlier this year, Hong Kongs government proposed a registration system that would recognise same-sex partnerships formed overseas, granting such couples more rights in the city. In 2023, Hong Kong's top court ruled that full sex reassignment surgery should not be a prerequisite for transgender people to have their gender changed on their official identity cards. In April 2024, activist Henry Tse, who won the legal battle in 2023 and received his new ID card reflecting On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Taiwanese are casting their votes on Saturday in the islands largest-ever recall election targeting nearly a fifth of its lawmakers, all from the main opposition party. The polls outcome could shift the balance of power and offer president Lai Ching Tes Democratic Progressive Party a brief window to take control of parliament. Voters were waiting in line at schools, temples and community centres to cast their ballots early on Saturday in the high-stakes election. Polling stations opened around 8.00am local time (0000GMT) and are set to close at 4pm, with results expected the same day. open image in gallery ( AFP via Getty Images ) Although Taiwans ruling Democratic Progressive Party won the presidential election last year, the China-friendly Nationalists, also known as the KMT, and the smaller Taiwan People's Party garnered enough seats to form a majority bloc in the islands parliament. The unprecedented recall vote is being led by civic groups who accuse the opposition Kuomintang of working against Taiwans interests by reducing key budgets, especially for defence, and pushing legislation to weaken the government. They accuse the KMT lawmakers of acting in line with Chinas interests, reducing its ability to deter Chinese military threats. However, the KMT denies having a pro-China stance, maintaining that its exercising its constitutional duty to scrutinise government policy and curb waste. Party officials say the recall campaign is politically motivated and an attempt by Mr Lais party to impose dictatorship and undermine the will of voters who delivered the opposition and its allies a legislative majority in last years election. open image in gallery A voter leaves a booth during voting for the recall election at a polling station in Taipei on July 26, 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images ) The KMT holds 52 seats, while the ruling DPP holds 51 seats in Taiwans 113-member parliament. The KMT and the smaller Taiwan Peoples Party, along with independent allies, now control 62 seats, compared to the ruling partys 51. For the DPP to secure a majority, it would need to oust at least six KMT lawmakers and win all by-elections, which would be held within three months following the announcement of results. This shift enabled the opposition to stall the governments legislative agenda and block proposed spending increases, particularly in areas like defence. A total of 24 opposition lawmakers now face recall votes on Saturday, with seven more votes scheduled for 23 August. open image in gallery Two dozen Taiwanese opposition lawmakers and a mayor are facing recall votes ( AFP via Getty ) For the unprecedented recall to pass, over a quarter of eligible voters in the electoral district must vote in favour of the move, with the total number of supporters exceeding those against. The KMT can nominate new candidates or field the same ones, many of whom represent strongholds with safe margins. Ruling party leaders have been actively campaigning for the recall campaign. Mr Lai urged party members last month to back the campaign, although he did not personally join the trail. Critics of the KMT argue the recalls are necessary to counter what they see as the partys alignment with Beijings agenda. Chinese state media and officials have publicly condemned the recall campaign, echoing KMT arguments and accusing Mr Lai of authoritarianism. Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office, described the recalls as part of Mr Lais alleged campaign to suppress the opposition and govern through dictatorship under the guise of democracy. open image in gallery People vote at a local temple used a polling station during the recall election in Taipei on July 26, 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Taiwans Mainland Affairs Council dismissed Mr Fenglians remarks, claiming the Chinese Communist Partys attempt to influence Taiwans democratic process was evident and clear. "Recall in Taiwan is a civil right guaranteed by the constitution, and it is up to the people of Taiwan to decide who should or should not be removed from office, it said in a statement, citing findings from local research body IORG documenting over 400 instances of Chinese state media content criticising the recall as green terror or authoritarian. Robert Tsao, a billionaire backing the recall effort, said Chinas interference only confirmed the KMTs ties to Beijing. It shows they are together with the Communist Party. It helps us, he said at a recent rally. KMT officials distanced themselves from the support voiced by China, insisting the party neither solicited nor welcomed Beijings backing. We feel the same way as all the people of Taiwan - this is our business, said party spokesperson Crystal Yang. It is the two parties, the DPP and the KMT, fighting for public support... It has nothing to do with the mainland. Tony Lin, who chairs the KMTs Culture and Communication Committee, defended the partys engagement with China, stating it was necessary for keeping diplomatic channels open in the absence of dialogue between Beijing and Mr Lais administration. We are pro-communication, he said. Not pro-Beijing. The recalls come at a time of heightened cross-strait tensions, with China ramping up military exercises and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan. Despite repeated offers for talks, Mr Lais government has been spurned by Beijing, which labels him a separatist. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Air India grounded an aircraft for inspection after a fire broke out in its auxiliary power unit, or APU, shortly after landing in New Delhi on Tuesday. The fire was detected while passengers were disembarking flight AI315 from Hong Kong, the airline said in a statement. The incident occurred while passengers had begun disembarking and the APU was automatically shut down as per system design, an airline spokesperson said. The APU is installed at the rear of the aircraft and serves as a backup power source. It is primarily used to start the main engines and operate critical onboard systems while the aircraft is on the ground. Passengers de-boarded safely but the aircraft, which landed in Delhi at 12.31pm local time, was damaged, the airline said. Flight tracking service Flightradar24 identified the affected aircraft as an Airbus A321. This was the third Air India scare in two days. A flight from the southern city of Kochi veered off a rain-soaked runway in Mumbai on Monday. All passengers got off safely but the aircrafts engine and runway infrastructure were damaged. The plane was grounded and both pilots de-rostered. A few hours later, flight AI2403 from Delhi to Kolkata aborted take-off at high speed after a technical issue was detected. The pilots stopped the aircraft, and all 160 passengers were safely disembarked. The flight was rescheduled for later in the evening. These incidents come amid heightened scrutiny of flight safety following last months deadly Air India crash in Ahmedabad that killed 260 people. A preliminary investigation report released a month after the crash revealed the Boeing Dreamliners fuel control switches flipped from run position to cutoff within seconds of the take-off. The report said that one of the pilots was heard on the cockpit voice recorder asking the other why he had cut off the fuel. The other responded that he hadnt. The report caused an uproar with pilot associations accusing the investigators of indirectly blaming the pilots for the crash. A subsequent report in The Wall Street Journal suggested that pilot error could have played a role in the incident. However, Indian authorities condemned the report as speculative and irresponsible. Meanwhile, Air India said it found no problems with the fuel control switch mechanisms across its Boeing 787 and 737 fleet during inspections carried out after the Ahmedabad crash. Indias Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau expects to give a final report detailing its investigation into the crash within a year. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice India will resume granting tourist visas to Chinese nationals from Thursday in a new step to normalise Delhis ties with Beijing, officials announced on Wednesday. The diplomatic restoration of tourist visas comes after a gap of five years due to degradation of ties between India and China following a 2020 military clash between their troops along the disputed Himalayan border. The embassy of India in China issued a statement on Wednesday and said that Chinese citizens can apply for a tourist visa to India after completing an online application, scheduling an appointment and personally submitting their passport and other important documents needed to obtain a visa. These documents can be submitted to the Indian visa application centres in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou in south Chinas Guangdong province. Please be informed that all passport withdrawal requests for applications submitted in the India Visa Application Centre in Beijing must be accompanied by a passport withdrawal letter, the embassy statement said. The statement was also shared on the embassys social media platform Weibo. Indian Armed Forces and Peoples Liberation Army soldiers clashed in the Himalayan regions Galwan Valley in June 2020. At least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers were killed in the neighbours' first deadly military confrontation since 1975. Both armies came to blows and engaged in a physical clash over Chinas two tents and observation towers that India said were built on its side of the de-facto border, and which its troops set on fire after they were discovered by a patrol. About 900 soldiers of both sides were involved in the hand-to-hand combat that followed, when they beat each other with rocks and wooden sticks embedded with nails. Chinese president Xi Jinping and India prime minister Narendra Modi meet on the sidelines of the Brics summit in Kazan, Russia ( China Daily ) The skirmish caused Indo-China ties to plummet to their lowest in decades as New Delhi and Beijing took steps to pause their bilateral engagements and trade. New Delhi heightened scrutiny of investments from China, banned popular Chinese mobile apps, and cut direct passenger air routes to China. According to Indias defence minister Rajnath Singh, the military stand-off showed Chinas disregard for a two-way pact between both the countries. China suspended visas to Indian citizens and other foreigners around the same time due to the Covid-19 pandemic but lifted those restrictions in 2022, when it resumed issuing visas for students and business travellers. Tourist visas for Indian nationals remained restricted until March this year, when both countries agreed to resume direct air service. However, both Asian giants have taken steps to improve their relations in the past one year, with India and China holding several high-level talks between the top leaders Chinese president Xi Jinping and prime minister Narendra Modi. The two met in Russia in October. In July this year, India's foreign minister told his Chinese counterpart that both countries must resolve border friction, pull back troops and avoid "restrictive trade measures" to normalise their relationship. Beijing has acknowledged Delhis latest positive move, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. "China is ready to maintain communication and consultation with India and constantly improve the level of personal exchanges between the two countries," he said. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Indian prime minister Narendra Modi is travelling to the UK to formally sign a free trade agreement amid global trade tensions sparked by Donald Trumps tariffs. The long-awaited signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, agreed in May after three years of negotiations and described variously as landmark and historic, is the centrepiece of the visit. Mr Modis two-day state visit, starting Wednesday, is his fourth to the UK and comes at a pivotal moment for both nations. For India, it offers a chance to diversify trade and diplomatic partnerships. For the UK, still grappling with post-Brexit trade issues, the deal represents a rare economic breakthrough. Mr Modis trade minister, Piyush Goyal, is accompanying him for the formal signing, an Indian commerce ministry official said. This is a significant agreement," Vikram Misri, India's foreign secretary, told reporters on Tuesday, adding that legal vetting of the deal was near completion. open image in gallery File. Narendra Modi, center, walks with Trinidad and Tobago prime minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar upon his arrival in Piarco on 3 July 2025 ( AP ) Mr Modi is meeting his counterpart Keir Starmer for wide-ranging talks on trade, defence, security and technological cooperation as well as climate. He is likely to meet King Charles as well. While the trade deal remains the focal point, the trip is also aimed at resetting bilateral ties, deepening strategic cooperation, and amplifying people-to-people links. The agreement, expected to boost a 42.6bn trading relationship, was finalised after 14 formal rounds of negotiations. Mr Goyal earlier called the deal a turning point in Indias outward economic engagement and a win-win for both economies. Mr Starmer hailed it as a bold step forward for Global Britain, projecting it to boost GDP by 4.8bn annually and potentially support over 30,000 new jobs. Under the deal, the UK agreed to eliminate or phase out tariffs on over 99 per cent of Indian exports, including textiles, auto parts, leather goods, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products. India in turn agreed to cut tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods. It agreed to significantly lower levies on British exports like Scotch whisky, Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles, luxury cosmetics, and certain high-tech goods. British cars, which currently attract tariffs of over 100 per cent in India, will see duties reduced to 10 per cent. The deal also offers tariff concessions on medical devices, pharmaceuticals, aircraft components, and electronic goods. In return, Indian manufacturers are expected to gain access to the UK market for electric and hybrid vehicles, the commerce ministry official said. open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves puts a label on a whisky bottle during a visit to the Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery in Tranent, East Lothian, to mark the UK-India trade deal ( Andrew Milligan/PA Wire ) The UK is an important market for Indian exporters," said Ajay Sahai, director general of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, adding the pact would boost trade and provide access for Indian sectors like textiles, footwear, marine and engineering products. Beyond trade, Mr Modi and Mr Starmer are likely to discuss bolstering the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, originally launched in 2021. Mr Modi is also scheduled to meet leaders of the Indian diaspora, estimated at over 1.7m. The free trade deal had to undergo parliamentary scrutiny in the UK and a review by the Indian cabinet before it could come into force. The Indian cabinet approved the deal on Tuesday after a legal scrubbing of its text. The British parliament is yet to approve it. Sensitivities remain around issues that are either unresolved or that have been quietly sidestepped for now. India has firmly excluded agriculture from the scope of the deal, a politically and economically sensitive sector that sustains more than 40 per cent of the countrys workforce. This longstanding red line reflects New Delhis resistance to exposing its farmers to foreign competition and has complicated talks with other major partners, including the US. Among the more controversial provisions is Indias commitment to gradually lower tariffs on certain British imports such as Scotch whisky and luxury vehicles. While these sectors are crucial for the UK, Indian manufacturers, particularly in the alcohol industry, have warned a flood of high-end imports could affect the market and harm homegrown brands. Mr Modis trip to the UK is part of a two-nation tour. From the UK, he will visit the Maldives for his third trip to the island nation and first since Mohamed Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, became president in November 2023. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Japanese prime minister Shigeru Ishiba has denied reports he plans to announce his resignation over a historic defeat of his ruling party in a weekend election, saying instead he wanted to make sure a new tariff agreement with the US is appropriately implemented. The denial comes amid local media reports that he has informed his close aids that he is preparing to step down by the end of August following a significant electoral defeat and the conclusion of a high-stakes trade agreement with the US. Mr Ishiba has been under growing pressure to step down as his ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior coalition partner, Komeito, lost their majority in the 248-member upper house, the smaller and less powerful of Japan's two-chamber parliament on Sunday, shaking his grip on power and Japan's political stability. The loss means Mr Ishiba's ruling coalition, which also lost a majority in the more powerful lower house in October, now lacks a majority in both houses of parliament, making it even more difficult for his government to achieve any policy goals and worsening Japan's political instability. Mr Ishiba had announced his intention to stay on to tackle pressing challenges, including tariff talks with the US, without creating a political vacuum, sparking calls from inside and outside his own party for a quick resignation to respond to the election results. Japans Yomiuri newspaper had earlier reported that Mr Ishiba told his inner circle on Tuesday that he would explain how he planned to take responsibility for the election results once trade negotiations with the US had been resolved. open image in gallery Japan's prime minister Shigeru Ishiba attends a cabinet meeting at the prime minister's office in Tokyo on 22 July 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images ) The Mainichi and the Sankei newspapers also reported that his formal announcement is expected next month, once key national events conclude. On Wednesday, US president Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that he had finalised a massive trade deal with Japan involving $550bn in Japanese investments into the US economy. The agreement also includes a reduction of tariffs on Japanese goods from a proposed 25 per cent to 15 per cent. "This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan, he wrote on Truth Social. Mr Ishiba responded cautiously when asked about the impact of the deal on his political future. He said he will make a decision on resigning after closely studying the tariff deal just struck with the US. I cant say until I scrutinise the outcome of the agreement, he told reporters, adding that he intended to speak with Mr Trump once he had been briefed by Japans chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa. The 68-year old leader said media reports that he had already decided to resign were "completely unfounded", Reuters reported. Mr Ishiba chose not to quit straight after the election to prevent political instability as a 1 August deadline for clinching the trade deal approached, a source close to the prime minister told Reuters, asking not to be identified because they are not authorised to talk to the media. The prime minister, who met party heavyweights and former prime ministers Taro Aso, Fumio Kishida and Yoshihide Suga on Wednesday at party headquarters, told reporters afterwards that they did not discuss his resignation or a new party leadership contest. They only discussed the election results, shared the sense of crisis and confirmed the need to avoid party discord, he said. Auto exports, which represent more than a quarter of Japans total exports to the US, will also see reduced tariffs under the agreement, Mr Ishiba noted, calling the 15 per cent rate the lowest figure among countries that have a trade surplus with the US. Despite widespread calls for him to step down, the prime minister had argued that it would be irresponsible to vacate his position amid ongoing economic challenges. I will stay in office and do everything in my power to chart a path toward resolving these challenges, Mr Ishiba said in a news conference on Monday. He is expected to meet senior LDP figures and three former prime ministers later on Wednesday to discuss the implications of the election results and his likely resignation. open image in gallery Japan's prime minister Shigeru Ishiba meets with members of the media following the announcement of a Japan-US tariff agreement, at the prime minister's office in Tokyo on 23 July 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Once Mr Ishiba formally steps aside, the ruling party must organise a leadership election to select his successor. However, with the LDP-Komeito coalition no longer holding a majority in either house of parliament, the new leader may face difficulty securing the required support in a parliamentary vote to become prime minister. August is traditionally a politically significant month in Japan. This year, it includes commemorations of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the anniversary of the end of World War II on 15 August, and the Tokyo-hosted international conference on African development from 20 to 22 August. Sources suggest Mr Ishiba is likely to resign only after these events have concluded. Meanwhile, Mr Ishibas approval ratings have dropped sharply in recent days, with a major national poll showing support for his administration falling to just above 20 per cent a threshold often considered unsustainable for a sitting government. What this means is that were sort of entering a period of speculation as to whos going to be the next leader, William Chou, deputy director of the Japan Chair at the Hudson Institute, told Bloomberg. Right now its just a lot of speculation. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has sentenced eight members of Imran Khans party to 10 years in jail each for inciting protests that targeted military sites following the former prime ministers arrest in 2023. Mr Khan faces a separate trial on similar charges, with prosecutors accusing him and fellow PTI party leaders of instigating the unrest that saw protesters attack government and military sites, including the armys headquarters in Rawalpindi and a senior commanders residence in Lahore. Tuesdays ruling has no direct bearing on Mr Khans ongoing trial, Reuters reported. The convicted PTI members include officials of the partys previous provincial government in Punjab such as Yasmin Rashid, Ejaz Chaudhry, Mehmoodur Rashid, and Umar Sarfraz Cheema. The trial was held behind closed doors in a prison in Lahore city. The sentencing of its eight prominent members is the latest in a wave of prosecutions targeting Mr Khans PTI following his ouster in 2022. Defence lawyers plan to appeal, citing inconsistencies in the rulings against people charged with the same offences. Its surprising that six people were acquitted while eight were convicted, even though they were all charged under the same allegations, defence counsel Burhan Moazzam said. Among those acquitted was PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The former foreign minister remains in custody on separate charges. Imran Khans supporters shout slogans after he is sentenced to 14 years in prison, in Peshawar, Pakistan, on 17 January 2025 ( EPA ) After Mr Khans arrest on corruption charges on 9 May 2023, thousands of his supporters stormed military installations in a dramatic escalation of unrest triggered by his ouster the previous year. The ensuing clashes left 10 people dead in the capital city of Islamabad and led to the arrests of around 4,000 people. Mr Khans supporters, who accused the powerful military of orchestrating his ouster through a no confidence vote, targeted an airbase, multiple cantonments, the residence of a senior general, and the army headquarters after the leader was forcibly removed from a courtroom and taken into custody. Mr Khan, 72, completes two years in prison next month. He faces around 150 charges, ranging from corruption to terrorism. His party claims all the cases filed against him are politically motivated. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump announced that the US had reached a deal to levy a 19 per cent import tariff on the Philippines following what he described as a "beautiful visit" by president Ferdinand Marcos Jr to the White House. The tariff rate is just shy of the 20 per cent Mr Trump had threatened to impose on Americas key Southeast Asian ally earlier this month but higher than the 17 per cent set when he first declared sweeping tariffs for dozens of countries in April. Mr Marcos Jr called the trade deal with the US a "significant achievement" but noted that some details were still to be worked out. The announcement of a loose framework of a deal comes as the two allies seek closer security and economic ties in the face of shifting geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific region. It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby the Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19 per cent Tariff," Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He called Mr Marcos Jr a "very good and tough negotiator. Donald Trump displays a chart showing his 'Liberation Day' tariffs on 2 April ( Getty ) Mr Marcos Jr, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet Mr Trump in his second term, told reporters at the start of his White House meeting that the US was his nations strongest, closest, most reliable ally. The Philippines is faced with China's assertive presence in the South China Sea where Manila and Beijing have clashed over the hotly contested Scarborough Shoal. Mr Trump said the "very big numbers" in the trade agreement would only grow larger. The US had a deficit of nearly $5bn (3.7bn) with the Philippines last year on bilateral goods trade of $23.5bn (17.3bn). The US president has upended global trade flows by levying tariffs on nearly every trading partner, with almost all nations slapped with a 10 per cent tariff in April and many facing steep additional levies from 1 August. Philippine officials had said Mr Marcos Jr intended to stress to Washington that Manila must become economically stronger if it was to serve as a truly robust US partner in the Indo-Pacific. Gregory Poling, a Southeast Asia expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, told Reuters it was too early to say much about the Philippines trade deal since no details had been released, as was the case with similar pacts with Indonesia and Vietnam. "At the end of the day, I don't think the Philippine government is sweating the final number so long as it keeps Philippine-made goods competitive with those of its neighbors, which this does," Mr Poling said. Mr Trump previously announced a 19 per cent tariff for Indonesia and 20 per cent for Vietnam. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Filipino couple didnt let a typhoon deter them from celebrating their wedding day. Despite knee-high water flooding their church, Filipino couple Jade Rick Verdillo and Jamaica Aguilar decided to go ahead with their scheduled wedding. The couple exchanged their vows on Tuesday in front of friends and family inside the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos in Bulacan province, according to reports. open image in gallery Bride Jamaica Agular prepares to enter the flooded Barasoain church for her wedding in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines on Tuesday, 22 July 2025 ( AP ) The church had flooded after relentless rains, intensified by Typhoon Wipha, swept across the region as part of a deluge that submerged large swathes of the Philippines. The couple had anticipated the risk but refused to let it derail their plans. We just mustered enough courage, Mr Verdillo told the Associated Press. We decided today because it is a sacrifice in itself. But there will [be] more sacrifices if we dont push through today. open image in gallery Newlyweds Jade Rick Verdillo, centre, and Jamaica Aguilar pose with a kiss as guests cheer at the flooded Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines ( AP ) Ms Aguilar glided down the aisle in a flowing white gown, her train trailing across the water, as Mr Verdillo stood waiting at the altar, solemn and proud in his traditional Barong Tagalog a traditional Filipino formal garment worn by men. They have been together for ten years. open image in gallery Guests attend a wedding at the flooded Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines ( AP ) The pictures from the wedding showed guests with rolled-up trousers wading through knee-deep water. Inside the flooded Barasoain Church, pews stood partially submerged as friends and family sat with water lapping at their ankles. open image in gallery A wedding guest holds a flower during the wedding at the flooded Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines on Tuesday, 22 July 2025 ( AP ) The groom said: I feel that challenges wont be over. Its just a test. This is just one of the struggles that weve overcome. The photos also captured the brides train floating on the water, a child offering flowers barefoot, and guests smiling through the flood. open image in gallery Groomsmen and guests stand knee deep in floodwaters wearing the traditional Barong Tagalog at Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines ( AP ) Despite the storm, family and friends waded through floodwaters inside the church to attend the ceremony. You will see love prevailed because even against weather, storm, rains, floods, the wedding continued, said Jiggo Santos, a wedding guest. Its an extraordinary wedding. open image in gallery Newlyweds Jade Rick Verdillo (right) and Jamaica Aguilar walk hand in hand during their wedding at the flooded Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province, Philippines on Tuesday, 22 July 2025 ( AP ) On 30 July 2023, another Filipino couple, Dianne Victoriano and Paulo Padilla, were also married in the flood-hit Barasoain Church, wading through ankle-deep water to exchange vows. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, more than 80,000 people remain in emergency shelters following weekend floods and landslides that killed at least three people. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Eight members of the Paris-based Chur dEnfants dIle-deFrance were taken to Massachusetts hospitals Monday night after experiencing seizurelike symptoms midway through their concert at St. Pauls Church in Harvard Square. The youth chorus, whose members are between 11 and 13 years old, was performing as part of their U.S. tour when crews were alerted around 7:30 p.m. to a child suffering from a seizure inside the Cambridge church. When firefighters arrived, they found the child seated outside the entrance, breathing but distressed. Almost immediately, seven more children began to exhibit similar seizurelike behavior, Cambridge Fire Chief Thomas Cahill told WCVB. "This was somewhat unusual," Cahill said. "It was a routine medical call that quickly escalated into transporting eight children to the hospital. Not common." All eight children were taken to nearby hospitals and have since been released. Still, officials cannot identify a cause for the children falling ill, but say those in attendance had complained of smelling something unusual before the children began showing symptoms. open image in gallery Eight children in a French choir performing at a Boston church fell ill. The crowd reported an odor, but investigators said they found nothing out of the orinary. ( Cambridge Fire Dept. ) open image in gallery All eight kids have been released from the hospital after being treated. ( Cambridge Fire Dept. ) In response, the fire departments hazardous materials unit conducted a full environmental sweep of the church, performing airquality tests and ventilating the premises. The findings showed no hazardous substances present. "We are in the process of clearing the building to turn it back over to Harvard University at this time," Cahill told the outlet. About 70 other attendees at the concert were unaffected, the department said. St. Pauls Church confirmed the choirs appearance, describing the performance as a mix of sacred, secular and popular French music. The church offered no further comment beyond acknowledging the incident. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Teeth marks seen on the leg bone of a so-called terror bird, which were predators 13 million years ago, suggest it may have been killed by an even bigger reptile. The enormous, flightless birds were found in the Americas and could reach up to 3 metres tall. They had powerful legs and vicious beaks which could tear the flesh of its prey. In a fossilised leg bone of one of the huge birds, four deep teeth marks have been discovered, prompting professor Andres Link of the University of the Andes in Colombia to search for what might have been the birds killer. Researchers now believe it was a caiman. open image in gallery Scientists scanned teeth marks in the leg bone and compared it with teeth of crocodile-like predators ( Link et al/Biology Letters ) Terror birds were undoubtedly at the top of the food chain, says Prof Link in the study published by journal Biology Letters. But this evidence shows us that they could also fall as prey of large caimans when approaching large water bodies. Maybe they went there to look for prey or [were] moving across this complex ecosystem. Using 3D scan of the bites, scientists were also able to reconstruct the possible battle between the terror bird and another reptile - a battle the bird appears to have lost. To discover which animal might have killed the terror bird, scientists created a digital model of the tooth marks by scanning the surface of the fossil, which they then compared with the teeth of ancient predators from the region. open image in gallery The bird may have already been dead when it was discovered by the caiman, researchers said ( Link et al/Biology Letters ) Theres no evidence of gnawing and the marks are rounded and in [a] line, more similar to those inflicted by crocodiles and caimans, professor Link said, with the scientist ruling that it was unlikely to be a mammal behind the attack. The bones, which were first found more than 15 years ago in Colombias Tatacoa Desert, provide rare evidence of an interaction between two of the top predators on the continent 13 million years ago. But the research team notes that they cant rule out the possibility that the bird was already dead at the time it was apprehended by the caiman, and that the tooth marks could be evidence of scavenging by the reptile. open image in gallery Scans of the terror bird bone discovered in Colombia ( Link et al/Biology Letters ) "There is no sign of healing in the bite marks on the bone," explained professor Link. "So if it wasn't already dead, it died in the attack. That was the last day that bird was on this planet - then a piece of its leg bone was found 13 million years later." These types of tooth traces are more common than people think, said Carolina Acosta Hospitaleche of the National University of La Plata in Argentina. Last year, she discovered tooth marks on a smaller and older terror bird fossil, around 43 million years old, from Argentina. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A woman and two children who died in a shooting in Co Fermanagh are understood to be a mother and her son and daughter. The mother is aged in her 40s, but the ages of her two children have not yet been confirmed. A fourth person, a man, is in a serious condition in hospital after the incident in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge. All four people are members of the same household and all four suffered gunshot wounds, police said. A murder investigation has been launched and police are probing a triple murder and attempted suicide line of inquiry. Superintendent Robert McGowan said that the suspect has a limited footprint with police. They were all from the same household, he said. I am keen first and foremost to express my sympathy to the family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock and who will struggle to come to terms with their unimaginable loss, he said. Detectives have now commenced a murder investigation and are working at pace to determine the circumstances. This is a quiet rural location and Im aware that this tragic event will have sent shockwaves of sadness throughout the community. Officers remained at the scene, which has been cordoned off, on Wednesday evening. Police are probing a triple murder and attempted suicide line of inquiry. The ages of the victims have not yet been released. Maguirestown is a small village about three miles from Eniskillen. It had a population of 940 at the 2021 Census. open image in gallery The part of Maguiresbridge where the people were shot is a rural, quiet area ( PA ) Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said: The news from Maguiresbridge is tragic and deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the victims, their relatives and the local community in Fermanagh. The shooting was truly shocking, Democratic Unionist Party assembly member Deborah Erskine said. [It] has stunned the entire community. She urged people not to speculate about the shooting, and to allow police to investigate. The area of Maguiresbridge where this has happened is a rural, quiet area and everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning, Ms Erskine said. My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning. This morning I was speaking to police dealing with the incident. I paid tribute to the emergency services at the scene. I also appeal for privacy to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations. open image in gallery Police on the scene following the shooting ( PA ) Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen similarly said she urged people not to speculate on the details of this tragic and shocking incident. My thoughts are with the victims and their families at this tragic time, she said. I am in contact with the police around this ongoing situation. A number of roads were closed while police carried out their investigations, Ms Cullen said. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said it received a 999 call at 8.21am on Wednesday. Three emergency ambulances, one rapid response paramedic, two ambulance officers and an ambulance doctor were dispatched. Following assessment and initial treatment at scene, one patient has been taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast by Air Ambulance and another to South West Acute Hospital by Ambulance, the service 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A brave vascular surgeon who told insurers he had his legs amputated due to sepsis has been charged with fraud. Neil Hopper, 49, who carried out hundreds of amputations before having his own legs removed below the knees, is accused of telling insurers that the leg injuries were the result of sepsis and were not self-inflicted, intending to make a gain. He has also been charged with encouraging someone else to remove the body parts of others. Mr Hopper, of Truro in Cornwall, appeared before Cornwall Magistrates Court in Bodmin on Wednesday, charged with two counts of fraud by false representation, and a charge of encouraging or assisting in the commission of grievous bodily harm. It is alleged that between 3 June and 26 June 2019, Mr Hopper dishonestly made a false representation to insurers. open image in gallery Hopper had been employed as a surgeon at Royal Cornwall Hospital ( PA Archive ) It is also alleged that between 21 August 2018 and 4 December 2020, Hopper bought videos from The EunuchMaker website showing the removal of limbs, which encouraged [website ringleader] Marius Gustavson to remove body parts of third parties. He was remanded in custody until his next court appearance at Truro Crown Court on 26 August. In 2020, Hopper was named one of the bravest people in Britain after winning the Against All Odds title at the Amplifon Awards for Brave Britons 2020, in a virtual ceremony hosted by BBC Breakfast. Speaking of his experience of having his legs amputated at the time, he said: I do quite a lot of amputations, and the one thing that kept going around in my mind was power tools, because you use power tools. The thought of power tools being used on me was icky. It was really weird. open image in gallery Hopper has not worked at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust since March 2023 ( Instagram ) Following his operation, he decided to pursue his childhood dream of becoming an astronaut and made the European Space Agency's shortlist for a para-astronaut, but was later eliminated from the process. Hopper has not worked at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust since March 2023, and the charges are not connected to his work. The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Services interim orders tribunal placed restrictions on his practice the following month while the General Medical Council investigated, and he has been suspended from the medical register since December 2023. A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, where Mr Hopper has been employed, has worked closely with Devon and Cornwall Police throughout the investigation. A hospital trust spokesperson added: The charges do not relate to Mr Hoppers professional conduct and there has been no evidence to suggest any risk to patients. Mr Hopper worked at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals from 2013 until he was suspended from duty in March 2023, following his initial arrest. Former patients with any questions or concerns about their treatment can contact the Royal Cornwall Hospitals patient experience team. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A man who was jailed for 19 years in 2016 for subjecting a girl to a campaign of violent rape in Rotherham has been found guilty of raping another vulnerable teenager in the town. Sageer Hussain, 39, was one of three men found guilty of rape at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday following a trial which heard how he targeted his victim 25 years ago, the National Crime Agency (NCA) confirmed. Hussain is already serving a lengthy sentence after he was jailed for 19 years in 2016 for raping a 13-year-old girl in the South Yorkshire town. He will be sentenced again in November after was found guilty on Wednesday of raping a girl alongside two other men Kessur Ajaib and Mohammed Makhmood who were convicted of raping a second teenager. The convictions are the latest to arise out of the NCAs Operation Stovewood, which is the huge investigation into child sexual exploitation in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013. A jury heard how the girl Hussain raped was about 14 at the time and is now in her 30s. Hussain, who was about the same age, led her down an alleyway in Rotherham town centre and said he would not let her back out unless she had sex with him. Prosecutors told the jury how Hussain raped her with two other people present, one female and one male. (Left to right) Kessur Ajaib, Mohammed Makhmood and Sageer Hussain ( National Crime Agency /PA Wire ) They said she cried throughout the ordeal as her exit was blocked. The second girl was also about 14 when Ajaib and Makhmood raped her, the court heard. Prosecutor Andrew Bailey told the jury how Ajaib was about 18 when he raped her in an alleyway. Mr Bailey said Makhmood, who was about 18 or 19 at the time, raped the same girl in an old graveyard in Rotherham as she fought against him. He said that he called her a slag and a dirty b**** before spitting at her and laughing. Mr Bailey said she did not dare tell anyone. The offending took place between 1999 and 2002, the court heard. Hussain is due to be sentenced again on November 7, the NCA confirmed. Ajaib and Makhmood are due to be sentenced on November 21. All three were remanded in custody by Judge Charles Thomas. NCA senior investigating officer Alan Hastings said: Ajaib, Hussain and Makhmood subjected two young girls to devastating acts of sexual abuse, the consequences of which the victims have lived with for almost 25 years. Those victims have now, at last, had their voices heard and their accounts believed. While this could never eradicate the suffering caused by their attackers, I hope it will pave the way for the women to move forward with their lives. Liz Fell, specialist prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Services organised child sexual abuse unit, said: These men deliberately exploited the victims youth and vulnerability to manipulate and control them. They sexually abused the victims, who were children, in the most horrendous way. The treatment these young girls endured was appalling they were attacked in isolated locations and subjected to humiliation and verbal abuse. The NCA says Operation Stovewood is the single largest law enforcement operation of its kind in the UK and has identified more than 1,100 children involved in the exploitation. The agency said 46 people have now been convicted. Ajaib, 43, of Walter Street, Rotherham, was found guilty of one count of rape and one of indecent assault. He was found not guilty of a further count of rape. Makhmood, 43, of Falding Street, Rotherham, was found guilty of one count of rape. Hussain, 39, formerly of Rotherham and currently a serving prisoner, was found guilty of one count of rape. He was acquitted of two counts of raping the girl who was raped by the other two defendants. Hussain was jailed in 2016 alongside seven other men by the same judge who had previously sentenced his brothers Arshid, Basharat and Bannaras to 35, 25, and 19 years in prison respectively. The judge in 2016 heard how Hussains victim, who was abused by all eight of the co-defendants, had complained to police in 2003 but the inquiry was dropped, partly because she was so terrified of her abusers. Judge Sarah Wright told the eight men: She was targeted, sexualised and subjected to acts of a degrading and violent nature. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Information about asylum hotel locations will be shared with food delivery companies to tackle suspected hotspots of illegal working, the Home Office have said. A new agreement with Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats will see information about high-risk areas shared to help them uncover abuse on their platforms and quickly suspend accounts. Currently delivery riders discovered to be sharing their accounts with asylum seekers have their profiles suspended. The latest measures hope to crack down further on the practice. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: Illegal working undermines honest business, exploits vulnerable individuals and fuels organised immigration crime. By enhancing our data sharing with delivery companies, we are taking decisive action to close loopholes and increase enforcement. The changes come alongside a 50% increase in raids and arrests for illegal working under the Plan for Change, greater security measures and tough new legislation. The information sharing from the Home Office is aimed to prevent illegal working ( PA Wire ) The Home Office added that the gig economy firms have also been increasing real-time identity and right to work checks which has led to thousands of workers being taken off the platforms. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp claimed last month to have found evidence of people working illegally for the food delivery firms during a visit to a hotel used to house asylum seekers. Asylum seekers in the UK are normally barred from work while their claim is being processed, though permission can be applied for after a year of waiting. Delivery firms met Home Office bosses earlier this month to discuss the concerns of abuse in the sector. The three delivery companies said they were fully committed to working with the Home Office and combatting illegal working. Ministers promised a nationwide blitz to target migrants working illegally as part of efforts to deter people from coming to the UK from France. Officials hope to tackle the pull factors attracting migrants to the UK alongside the deal struck by Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this month to send some people who reach England in small boats back to France. More than 23,500 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the English Channel so far in 2025, a record for this point in the year. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The arrest on terrorism charges of a 67-year-old man for holding up the front cover of Private Eye at a pro-Palestine protest is mind-boggling, Ian Hislop, the magazines editor, has said. Pensioner Jon Farley, a former head teacher at a primary school, was arrested at a silent protest in Leeds on Saturday after police accused him of supporting Palestine Action, a proscribed organisation. The government voted earlier this month to designate the protest outfit a terrorist organisation after some of its members allegedly sprayed red paint at British fighter jets at RAF Brize Norton. The proscription afforded Palestine Action the same legal status as Isis, Al-Qaeda and far-right outfit National Action. The Private Eye cover held up by Mr Farley at the protest contained the words: Palestine Action Explained. Unacceptable Palestine Action: Spraying military planes with paint. Acceptable Palestine Action: Shooting Palestinians queueing for food. At the bottom of Mr Farleys poster, the words Private Eye, no 1653 were written. West Yorkshire police arrested the pensioner under section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000. He had never been detained before. [Police officers] picked me up, grabbed me, and took me to the side, and I ended up sitting on the pavement, the 67-year-old told The Guardian. I think thats when they said something about the placard. And I said: Well its a cartoon from Private Eye. I can show you. Ive got the magazine in my bag, by which time, they were putting me in handcuffs. A fellow protester later pointed out to the police that the latest edition of Private Eye was on sale at a nearby newsagents. Mr Farley spent six hours in detention being questioned by counter-terror police. He was allowed to leave under bail conditions that he refrain from attending Palestine Action rallies. Mr Farley says he has never attended a Palestine Action rally, and it would be illegal to hold such a meeting. He pointed out that 32 Palestinians were shot while queueing for aid on the day he was arrested. He described the incident as evidence of a whole atmosphere of intimidation, adding that he believed the police were making up the law. Mr Hislop, defending the front cover, said it was quite blatantly an example of freedom of speech. Asked about the arrest of Mr Farley, he said: I did think it was mind-boggling. I mean, ludicrous. He obviously couldnt believe it and the immediate response in the office was that someone said: Well, the jokes have been criminal for ages. Mr Hislop described the cover as a very neat and funny little encapsulation about what is and isnt acceptable, and its a joke about I mean, its quite a black joke but about the hypocrisies of government approach to any sort of action in Gaza. So its not difficult to understand. Its critical, but it is quite clearly a joke. Seems to me absolutely extraordinary that someone could be arrested for holding it up. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice British sailors are being warned to be cautious after a sailboat was rammed by orcas off the coast of northern Spain. Two sailors on a French yacht were rescued by the Spanish coastguard on Monday after reporting being attacked by killer whales at around 2pm. The incident happened around two miles from the town of Deba, near Bilbao, local media reports. Though the pair were taken to shore safely, rescuers said incidents in the region were uncommon and that they had not been called to assist in an orca attack in the Basque Country before. Such incidents are more common further south in the orca alley of the Strait of Gibraltar. British experts have now advised sailors to be cautious and familiarise themselves with what to do if they encounter orcas, as the attack in Spain comes just weeks after Iberian orcas were first spotted in Cornish waters. open image in gallery Such incidents are more common further south in the orca alley of the Strait of Gibraltar. ( Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Professor Volker Deecke, professor of wildlife conservation at the University of Cumbria, did not rule out that such incidents seen near Spain could happen in British waters. He told The Telegraph: "UK sailors transiting the hotspots should definitely familiarise themselves with the guidance. The same guidance applies for sailors encountering any killer whales in Cornish waters." Guidance includes turning off boat engines and lowering sails if orcas are spotted. Skippers are also advised to turn off autopilot and echo sounders, and not to make loud noises. Other recommendations include staying in shallow waters, which makes it harder for orcas to ram rudders of boats. Despite being referred to as killer whales, orcas belong to the dolphin family. They can grow up to eight metres long and weigh up to six tonnes. Most experts believe orcas are not displaying aggression during the incidents and are instead attacking out of boredom. For some unknown reason, the killer whales have developed a penchant for breaking the rudders of sailboats and once they have achieved this, they leave the boat alone, Prof Volker Deeke told The Telegraph. During interactions, the animals remain cool, calm and collected without any of the behavioural signs of aggression such as splashing, or vocalisations. The Independent has contacted the Spanish coastguard 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A pantomime dame has hit out at a councils attack on her library storytime events for families after they were postponed over protest concerns. Mama G, who is an LGBTQ+ campaigner and a former Britain's Got Talent contestant, said she was devastated when she received the news her performances in Suffolk libraries this summer have been postponed after seven years of storytelling there. Personally, I find it really sad because its an attack on what I love, she told The Independent. All youre doing is cancelling a pantomime. The reason theyre worried is the message is one of positivity and inclusivity. Suffolk Community Libraries, which is run by Suffolk County Council, said the move had been made in light of extreme negative reactions to similar events in other areas, including protests. They described the decision as operational, not political, and said the events have been postponed to allow for an additional risk assessment to be carried out. Mama G who describes herself as a storytelling pantomime dame who goes all over the country telling children and families about being who you want and loving who you are said she organised the three days of events in Suffolk back in April. open image in gallery Mama G describes herself as a storytelling pantomime dame who goes all over the country telling children and families about being who you want and loving who you are ( Mama G / Petite Pantod ) But last week, she said she was told her sessions had been postponed after council members had raised concerns in light of other previous protests elsewhere. They advised me I should assume theyre cancelled and should look for further work, she said, adding that she believed this was a decision made by the council, not the libraries. The council said the events have been postponed, not cancelled, and that the decision would have been made regardless of whether the library service was managed by the council. The council has every right to do this, Mama G said. Its just really hard not to think about it as why has this particular council decided to take action against a performer who promotes positivity for everyone but has an affinity to the LGBTQ+ community. I wouldnt necessarily saying they were censoring [me]... but that is something that plays on your mind. Mama G said she was especially upset because she had worked for Suffolk libraries during periods of protest elsewhere, such as those that have broken out around Drag Queen Story Hour, and never had a problem. She added that, as a self-employed worker, she had lost out on days worth of income. open image in gallery A protester outside the Tate Britain, which was hosting a Drag Queen Story Hour in 2023 ( PA Wire ) My initial feeling, I was quite numb when they told me, [because] I love pantomime and sharing such a positive message, said Mama G, who is now set to perform in Haverhill, Ipswich and Stowmarket instead. She described her work as focused on educating children about inclusivity and understanding others with a view to creating a more respectful and empathetic world. Speaking of the current inflammatory and divisive nature of society, she said: What were seeing now is a reaction [from] people who didnt have an education about LGBTQ+ things and inclusivity. Referencing the councils decision, she said: It just seems a shame that rather than saying these events must happen and we must do everything to mitigate any negativity, is they decided to postpone them... If theyre concerned about sections of the library community being upset, its doubly important for these events to go ahead. Krystal Vittles, Head of Library Service for Suffolk Community Libraries, said: Due to extreme negative reactions to similar events in other areas, including protests and disruption, we have postponed these events and are currently carrying out an additional risk assessment. This is an operational decision as a precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our staff, residents, and local communities. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Councils should be granted greater control over council tax, MPs have warned, arguing that the current disconnect between local charges and service quality risks undermining the very foundations of local democracy. An inquiry into the financial sustainability of local government concluded that interim powers should be devolved to councils, ahead of a more comprehensive overhaul of what it described as "the most unfair and regressive tax in use in England today". The Commons Housing, Communities and Local Government Committees report recommended that individual authorities be empowered to revalue properties in their areas, define property bands, set the rates for those bands, and apply discounts. Beyond council tax, the report suggested that a broader devolution of fiscal powers, such as the ability to apply a tourist tax, should also be considered to address the growing financial strain on local government, exacerbated by austerity measures introduced in the 2010s. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner recently voiced her support for "more push" towards fiscal devolution, aligning with the governments commitment to transfer central decision-making to local areas. Furthermore, the committee advocated for replacing central government ringfencing of funding with "a rigorous outcomes-based system of accountability". This would ensure local authorities are held responsible for achieving agreed outcomes within their overall budgets, rather than simply meeting spending targets. open image in gallery Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner recently said she wanted more push towards fiscal devolution as part of the Governments pledge to transfer central decision-making to local areas ( Getty Images ) Council tax bill rises hit 5 per cent in April for the third year in a row, as almost all councils increased bills up to, or close to, the maximum permitted. The revaluation of properties has long been called for, with council tax bands in England still based on property values in 1991. The Institute for Fiscal Studies found that the most expensive properties (Band H) attract three times as much tax as the least valuable (Band A) despite being worth more than eight times more now, as prices have risen most in affluent areas. Council tax is therefore both increasingly out of date and arbitrary, and highly regressive with respect to property values, it added. A recent analysis commissioned by the County Councils Network found allowing councils to administer and retain taxes generated locally would boost funding for services by more than 4 billion in many areas and supercharge economic growth. Florence Eshalomi, Labour chair of the committee said: When residents are paying more and more in taxes but seeing less and less in regular, everyday services, such as libraries and fixing potholes, then trust in local democracy is at risk of being undermined. Government in England is overcentralised. The current financial pressures on local government are also driven largely by mandatory, high-cost, demand-led services, such as social care and special educational needs or disabilities, where councils have little control over these needs. Councils are trapped in a straitjacket by central government, with local authorities lacking the flexibility or control to devise creative, long-term, preventative solutions which could offer better value for money. If, as a country, we are going to deliver growth and improve local services, Westminster needs to ease its grip and let councils have more power to control their own affairs and be accountable to their own electorates. open image in gallery The revaluation of properties has long been called for, with council tax bands in England still based on property values in 1991 ( PA Archive ) The report also called called for the Government to reconsider its decision to freeze local housing allowance rates and extend its support for local authorities to acquire new housing stock through the local authority housing fund. Responding to the findings, the Local Government Association (LGA) said the findings provide further evidence of the fragile state of local government finances. Pete Marland, chair of the LGAs economy and resources board, said: Greater financial certainty and a simpler funding system are important. However, all councils remain under pressure and face having to increase council tax bills to try and protect services at the same time as making further cutbacks. A sustainable, long-term financial model for local government must lead to all councils having adequate resources to meet growing cost and demand pressures. London Councils, which represents the capitals 32 boroughs, said the report shows change is long overdue, but raised concerns over the Governments plans for changing the way funding is distributed. Claire Holland, chair of London Councils, said: The Governments plans to reform council funding are pivotal for ensuring local areas receive funding that genuinely matches their levels of need and enables them to cope with fast-rising costs and pressures. Its right that the Government is targeting deprivation in the new formula, but we are concerned that the measures used in the current proposals will not sufficiently account for Londons extreme housing poverty. This could mean London is left without the funding we need to deliver vital local services and return to financial stability. open image in gallery A graphic showing the average rise in council tax in England for band D properties ( PA Graphics ) A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: The Government is taking decisive action to fix the broken council funding system, so local leaders can deliver the vital public services their communities rely on. We have announced over 5 billion of new grant funding for local services on top of the 69 billion already made available this year to boost council finances, and we will go further to reform the funding system to make it fit for the future. This will ensure councils get the support they need and protect residents from further costs by keeping a 5% limit on the amount council tax can be raised without a referendum. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Taliban has denied that the rights of a British couple being held in a prison in Afghanistan are being violated. This comes after claims from the couples family and the UN that they are in desperate need of healthcare and were chained to murderers in maximum-security facilities. Peter and Barbie Reynolds, both in their 70s, were arrested in early February and taken from their home in central Bamiyan to Kabul, the Afghan capital. The couple run a group that provides education and training programmes. They have been held without charge, their family said. On Monday, human rights experts from the UN called for the couples release, warning that their health was quickly deteriorating. The experts said the pair were at risk of irreversible harm or death. open image in gallery Peter and Barbie Reynolds are being held by the Taliban ( Family handouts/ The Independent ) On Wednesday, at a media briefing in Kabul, the Talibans Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi rejected those allegations. They are in constant contact with their families, he said. Consular services are available. Efforts are underway to secure their release. These steps have not yet been completed. Their human rights are being respected. They are being given full access to treatment, contact and accommodation. Mr Muttaqi did not say what steps were being taken to secure the Reynolds release. open image in gallery Talibans Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi speaks to the media about the Peter and Barbie Reynolds case ( AP ) The couples time in detention has included time in a maximum-security facility and later in underground cells, without sunlight, according to the UN experts. They were then moved to above-ground cells at the General Directorate of Intelligence in Kabul. Peter needs heart medication and, during his detention, he has had two eye infections and intermittent tremors in his head and down his left arm. He also recently collapsed, the experts said. Barbie, meanwhile, suffers from anaemia and remains weak. Officials from the UK Foreign Ministry visited the couple on 17 July, family members said. Peter and Barbie sleep on a mattress on the floor, while Peters face is red, peeling and bleeding, likely due to the return of skin cancer that urgently needs removing, they said in a statement. We, their four adult children, have written privately to the Taliban leadership twice, pleading for them to uphold their beliefs of compassion, mercy, fairness, and human dignity," the children said. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The son of a British couple currently being held by the Taliban has shared an insight into the harsh conditions his parents have faced. Barbie Reynolds, 76, and her husband Peter, 80, were arrested by the Taliban on 1 February when they were returning to their home in Bamyan province in central Afghanistan. They have spent five and a half months in detention without being charged and were held separately in a maximum-security prison until eight weeks ago. Originally they were taken into local stations and transferred to Kabul put in a maximum security prison where they were separate, their son, Jonathan Reynolds said. Mum was in a women's prison my dad was in a mens prison with about 10,000 men where he was chained to murderers and criminals. open image in gallery Barbie Reynolds, 76, and her husband Peter, 80, were arrested by the Taliban on 1 February when they were returning to their home in Bamyan province in central Afghanistan. ( rebuildconsultants.com ) They were then transferred to the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI), with the promise of release within two to three days, but this has turned into on for months. The children said their parents had better conditions at the GDI but that they still had no bed or furniture and they have grave concerns about the health of their elderly parents. The last contact the children had with their parents was in June when their mother said their father's health was rapidly deteriorating. open image in gallery The British couple was living in Afghanistan for the past 18 years, running education and training projects and decided to remain in the country even after the Talibans takeover in 2021. ( Family handout/The Independent ) Its very painful hearing your elderly parents and their health failing so much and so fast and nobody seems to be able to turn the key and release them, Mr Reynolds said. My father who has had a number of historic minor heart attacks, now some minor Parkinsons seem to have developed. He has shaking in his hands arms and face to the point he was on the floor and he couldnt get up and his whole body was shaking. My mum had to call some prison guards to help get him back onto his mattress pad on the floor - they dont even have beds. My mum has numbness in her body. Her hands and feet going blue, partly because of malnutrition and some kind of anaemia. open image in gallery The last contact the children had with their parents was in June when their mother said their father's health was rapidly deteriorating. ( Family handout/The Independent ) He added: The reality is they may die in that prison and this is why Im pleading with whoever has the ability to release them and bring them home now. The British couple was living in Afghanistan for the past 18 years, running education and training projects and decided to remain in the country even after the Talibans takeover in 2021. In a statement on Monday, UN human rights experts said the Reynolds couple was at risk of irreparable harm or even death without access to adequate medical care. A spokesperson for the Foreign Office said: We are supporting the family of two British nationals who are detained in Afghanistan. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The government has admitted that slashing foreign aid spending will likely see global deaths rise as it confirmed the cuts will fall disproportionately on women and girls education and on projects across Africa. Its own assessment of the cuts impact said: Any reductions to health spending risk an increase in disease burden and ultimately in deaths, impacting in particular those living in poverty, women, children and people with disabilities. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has set out cuts of 575m in 2025-26. The government is cutting aid spending by 40 per cent in total, from 0.5 per cent to 0.3 per cent of Gross National Income by 2027. That is around 6bn, meaning the deepest cuts are still to come. Spending on health overall is set to drop by 46 per cent from 975m to 527m in 2025-26. This includes health security the type of work designed to prevent future pandemics. The pot also includes sexual and reproductive health and the Ending Preventable Deaths Support Programme, designed to stop avoidable deaths of women, newborns and children. Both face cuts as yet undefined. Spending on education, gender and equality will fall by 42 per cent, or 200m, with girls education funding specifically almost halving to 186m. That includes the closure of a girls education programme in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which the government said would have negative impacts on 170,000 children in post-conflict rural areas. Spending in Africa overall will fall from 1.6bn to 1.4bn, while spending in Europe will rise slightly. The worlds most marginalised communities, particularly those experiencing conflict and women and girls, will pay the highest price for these political choices, said Gideon Rabinowitz, director of policy and advocacy at Bond, the UK network for international development organisations. At a time when the US has gutted all gender programming, the UK should be stepping up, not stepping back. Sarah Champion, the Labour MP who chairs the Commons International Development Committee, said the changes will hurt education, health, social protection and support for women and girls, which she described as the pillars of healthy and secure societies. And Andrew Mitchell, the former deputy foreign secretary, said: The fact that a Labour government has made these cuts which will undoubtedly lead to numerous deaths amongst very vulnerable people is an affront to the internationalist reputation of the Labour Party and will do huge damage to the UKs reputation as a reliable development leader in the poorest parts of the world. The FCDO report confirmed the UK will send 1.8bn to the World Banks International Development Association (IDA) providing grants and low-interest loans to low-income countries in part of a shift in funding towards big multi-country spending programmes including the global vaccine alliance Gavi. This means less money going from the UK directly to projects in specific countries. Despite making cuts of roughly half a billion pounds, its encouraging to see that the government is prioritising multilateral spend and honouring its pledge to the World Bank. Yet, it is unfortunate that Africa home to over two-thirds of those in extreme poverty will receive under half of FCDOs country and regional budget, said Ian Mitchell, a senior policy fellow at the Centre for Global Development. Keir Starmers minister for development said the government was modernising its approach with the cuts ( House of Commons/UK Parliament ) If the government is to achieve its manifesto mission to tackle poverty, it will need to focus its budget where poverty exists and give African countries greater priority in its subsequent allocations, he added. Mr Rabinowitz said that, while he welcomed the consistent funding for certain humanitarian crises, vaccines and the World Bank, it is clear that the government is deprioritising funding for education, gender and countries experiencing humanitarian crises such as South Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia. While the government has committed to protecting spending for Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine, other crisis-hit countries face significant cuts. The plans also see a halving in spending on girls education as well as reductions in spending on womens health, including sexual and reproductive health, and health emergencies. ActionAid UK co-CEO Hannah Bond said she was, deeply alarmed by plans to slash girls education funding. This will almost inevitably push more girls out of school and into forced child marriages, denying them their rights and choices. While some humanitarian spending is being prioritised, Ms Bond added that slashing funding to women-led organisations working on peace and security would cut what is often the only lifeline for those facing violence, hunger, and displacement and calling out violations of human rights abuses, including in Gaza and Ukraine. Leading charities have previously raised the alarm that programmes supporting girls and women would be in the firing line. The UK has been a leader in funding sexual and reproductive health, including family planning, and the withdrawal of the US from funding these services has left a huge gap. It remains to be seen whether key programmes increasing access to contraception around the world, like the Womens Integrated Sexual Health (WISH) initiative, will be protected. While the governments own impact assessment makes it clear that, where cuts fall, they will have negative impacts on equality, the report claimed overall spending demonstrated, disproportionate impacts on equalities have been avoided. Minister for development Baroness Jenny Chapman said: We are modernising our approach to international development. Every pound must work harder for UK taxpayers and the people we help around the world and these figures show how we are starting to do just that through having a clear focus and priorities. The UK is moving towards a new relationship with developing countries, becoming partners and investors, rather than acting as a traditional aid donor. We want to work with countries and share our expertise from world leading science to the City of London to help them become no longer dependent on aid, and organisations like the World Bank and Gavi are central to how we can work with others to solve some of the biggest challenges of our time: humanitarian disasters, pandemics and the climate crisis. More details on where further cuts will fall are expected later in the year. This article was produced as part of The Independents Rethinking Global Aid project 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Michael Gove has branded concerns made by Angela Rayner about a repeat of last years summer of violence as a big mistake, claiming it could tacitly encourage riots. The former Tory cabinet minister, who was Ms Rayners predecessor as the secretary of state responsible for communities, added that history showed warning violence could break out made it inevitable. His comments follow a no holds barred briefing the deputy prime minister gave to cabinet colleagues on Tuesday, where she linked economic woes and immigration to community tensions and said the government needed to acknowledge the publics real concerns about societal changes, as well as falling living standards. She was speaking following violent scenes in Epping, Essex where protesters have clashed near the Bell Hotel which is believed to contain asylum seekers. open image in gallery Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner (PA) ( PA Wire ) Noting that 17 of the 18 areas with riots last year sparked by the Southport murders were among the poorest in the UK, she told colleagues that while Britain was a successful multi-ethnic, multi-faith country, the government had to show it had a plan to address peoples concerns and provide opportunities for everyone to flourish. Mr Gove, who is now editor of The Spectator, comes with significant ministerial experience in dealing with community tensions and riots. As a former justice secretary he was also responsible for the law courts and in 2011 during the riots which broke out in London he was a key member of David Camerons cabinet as education secretary. open image in gallery Michael Gove (Jordan Pettitt/PA) ( PA Archive ) Speaking on ITV This Morning, he said: I think this is a mistake on Labour, to brief this out, I think it is a big mistake, it reminds me of what happened in the 1970s when [former US president] Jimmy Carter when America was going through difficult times said this country is in the grip of a malaise. You do not, if you are the government, accentuate the negative in this way and you certainly dont suggest to people that violence might be about to break out in this way. Asked about comments made by Reform leader Nigel Farage appearing to sympathise with protesters in Epping, he said: I think it is understandable why Nigel Farage says it but I dont believe that anyone should be doing anything to anticipate or to seek to in any way say this is inevitable. Because that either tacitly encourages or makes the government seem at the mercy of events. Of course you deal with migration, of course the government can and should do more to show that people are being deported and asylum seekers are being processed effectively. But the key rule in politics is show, don't tell. You give hope, you do not double down on despair. On Wednesday the Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said she did not expect another summer of riots, but added that the government needs to be "very, very vigilant". But she blamed Labour for the strains on social cohesion highlighted by Ms Rayner. The Conservative leader said: "I'm surprised it's taken her this long to actually understand what is going on." On a visit to north-west London she said the local Hillingdon Council had a 17 million deficit because it has had asylum seekers "dumped on their doorstep". "Yvette Cooper is waving things through. Rachel Reeves is not providing the money. I'm not surprised. Angela Rayner is saying the social fabric is fraying, but she needs to do something about it," Ms Badenoch 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Protesters surrounded an empty hotel in Londons finance district after false rumours online suggested it was being used for migrants from another hotel, where riots have broken out. The Home Office has earmarked more than 400 beds at the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf, which it says it will use to house migrants at 81 per night per person. Protesters gathered at the site on Tuesday after social media posts claimed migrants were being moved there from the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, which has been the scene of violent protests over the past few days. So far, 10 people have been arrested in connection with that disorder, which was sparked when an asylum seeker was charged with sexual assault. Tommy Robinson, the far-right activist, is among those who claimed online that migrants were being transferred to the London hotel from Epping. The rumours sparked protests and counterprotests, with police drafted to the scene on Tuesday, despite the hotel currently sitting empty. open image in gallery Police attended as demonstrators gathered outside the hotel ( Getty ) Demonstrators had also seized on online claims that migrants were being housed at 400 a night, five times more than the actual cost, which the government will not be charged until migrants move in. Asylum seekers are not being removed from The Bell Hotel in Epping, a Home Office spokesperson said. Reform MP Lee Anderson was accused of further stoking division by attending the protest outside the Canary Wharf hotel and warning of an influx of illegal migrants. What are we playing at? he asked on social media. He posted a clip in which he said he is absolutely furious and that families across the UK would not be able to afford a nights stay in the hotel. Care4Calais head of advocacy Charlotte Khan hit out at Mr Anderson for his video. She said: The truth is, MPs should be more responsible than to sow division and hatred in our communities. She added: MPs ... who spread misinformation and hate that dehumanises refugees should be held accountable for their role in encouraging violence and racism on our streets. Nathan Phillips, head of campaigns at the charity Asylum Matters, hit out at the demonstrations which he said had morphed into yet more racist violence. In that context, its clear how disgracefully dangerous and utterly irresponsible it is for an MP to use his platform to identify a site where people are about to be housed and encourage his followers to protest against it. Its appalling that theres no accountability for an elected official who actively encourages the exact same sort of protests that have led to violence and arrests in Epping this week. In Essex, local Conservative MP Dr Neil Hudson warned that the riots were a crisis that has reached boiling point. open image in gallery Reforms Lee Anderson said he was furious ( Getty ) Essex Police made 10 arrests after more than 500 gathered outside the hotel, with rioters attacking police vans and injuring a police officer. On Sunday night, two security guards working at the Bell Hotel were also attacked at a bus stop, and are recovering in hospital. Giving an update to the media in Chelmsford on Wednesday, Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said: I want to thank the people of Epping, I want to thank the people of Essex. I also want to thank all those who have turned up to protest and express their views peacefully and lawfully, because there have been many of those. What has been unacceptable has been the people who have come to Epping and committed violence, who have attacked people who work at the hotel, who have attacked officers, who have damaged property and who have caused fear and disruption to the people of Epping. That is not tolerable, it will not be tolerated, and to that end, we have made 10 arrests. He appealed to the people of Essex to help us to do our job and make sure everyone can express their rights and their views safely and peacefully. The latest demonstrations come a day after Angela Rayner issued an ultimatum to Sir Keir Starmer, warning that the UK faces a repeat of last years summer riots unless the government shows it can address peoples concerns. The deputy prime minister said economic insecurity, immigration, the increasing time people spend online, and declining trust in institutions were having a profound impact on society. And, amid fears this summer could see riots similar to those in the wake of the Southport murders last year, Ms Rayner said it was urgent Sir Keir delivers tangible improvements to living standards. Of the 18 places hit with the worst rioting last summer, Ms Rayner noted that 17 are among the countrys most deprived areas. Michael Gove on Wednesday branded the comments about a repeat of last summers violence a big mistake which could tacitly encourage fresh riots. The Tory ex-minister said Ms Rayner was right to acknowledge concern across the country about immigration and living standards and encourage the government to prove it can deliver. But Mr Gove told ITV: I think this is a mistake on Labour, to brief this out, I think it is a big mistake, it reminds me of what happened in the 1970s when [former US president] Jimmy Carter, when America was going through difficult times, said this country is in the grip of a malaise. You do not, if you are the government, accentuate the negative in this way and you certainly dont suggest to people that violence might be about to break out in this way. A spokesperson for Tower Hamlets Council, the authority responsible for Canary Wharf, called on the government to ensure that there is a full package of support for those staying at the hotel. We are working with the Home Office and partners to make sure that all necessary safety and safeguarding arrangements are in place, they added. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Londons status as a global financial hub has been left fragile by Brexit, the boss of Goldman Sachs has warned. David Solomon, chairman and chief executive of the bank, said it is diverting staff away from London to rival cities such as Paris, Frankfurt and Munich. Speaking to Skys The Master Investor Podcast with Wilfred Frost, he said: "The financial industry is still driven by talent and capital formation, and those things are much more mobile than they were 25 years ago. "London continues to be an important financial centre. But because of Brexit, because of the way the world's evolving, the talent that was more centred here is more mobile. Goldman Sachs chief executive David Solomon said Brexit has put Londons status at risk ( AFP via Getty Images ) "We as a firm have many more people on the continent. Detailing the banks shift in focus from London to other European cities, Mr Solomon said: If you go back, you know, ten years ago, I think we probably had 80 people in Paris. You know, we have 400 people in Paris now... And so in Goldman Sachs today, if you're in Europe, you can live in London, you can live in Paris, you can live in Germany, in Frankfurt or Munich, you can live in Italy, you can live in Switzerland. "And we've got, you know, real offices. You just have to recognise that talent is more mobile." Goldman Sachs has around 6,000 employees in the UK. Mr Solomon also warned Rachel Reeves against further tax hikes, particularly on the wealthy, which could see more of the banks staff leave the UK. Amid mounting calls for the chancellor to unveil a wealth tax, with Ms Reeves looking for ways to raise billions in her Budget this autumn, Mr Solomon warned: If you don't set a policy that keeps talent here, that encourages capital formation here, I think over time you risk that. "Incentives matter if you create tax policy or incentives that push people away, you harm your economy. The bank chief said he has sympathy for the chancellor ahead of her Budget, welcoming her focus on economic growth. And now we have to see the action steps that actually follow through and encourage that, he added. Home Office minister Seema Malhotra blamed former prime minister Liz Truss for undermining Britain as a place to do business. Ms Malhotra told Sky News: There's been a sense of urgency coming out of the Treasury since we came into government last year, and that is because we saw the damage over 14 years, but most recently, since the Liz truss premiership, the damage that was done to our economy, to our reputation around the world, to the confidence of investors. And what I've seen while we've been in government is a government that is extremely and completely focused on how we rebuild our economy, but also how we work with our the City of London, with our financial services, because this is a jewel in the crown for the UK, And I believe that with the chancellor and with our government working in partnership, once again, with British industry, that we will see that confidence restored. The chair and chief executive of Goldman Sachs, David Solomon, has told Sky News that Londons status as one of the worlds pre-eminent financial centres is fragile, because of the continuing effects of Brexit, increased competition from other European centres, and the tax treatment of the US investment banks most highly paid staff. Although Solomon cuts a rather remote figure with concerns far removed from the average British family, the fact is that financial services and the City are such a significant part of the economy that his remarks carry some serious implications for the economy, and thus the living standards of all. So hes worth listening to. What is at issue? Solomon points out that his bank, one of the largest in the world, has more people employed in continental Europe and proportionally fewer in London than was the case before Brexit. As a result, the UK doesnt enjoy the spending these absent workers would otherwise inject into the local economy. Even in its current fragile state, the financial services sector contributes about 44bn to the Exchequer, not far off the entire defence budget, and it could be even more, given the right conditions. The temptation for ministers is to change rules on tax and regulatory rulebooks, to boost banking profits and thus tax revenues, social spending and investment. We may term this Rachels Dream. Whats wrong with London? Solomon is fairly clear that Brexit put up too many barriers with the EU in the financial sector, so relocation of certain functions and staff became inevitable. Tax and incentives are also significant factors in the leakage of people and money abroad to rival centres. The abolition of non-dom status under the Conservatives, with additional tax liabilities added by Labour, Solomon says, has also depopulated the UK tax base. Incentives matter. If you create tax policy or incentives that push people away, you harm your economy in Goldman Sachs today, if youre in Europe, you can live in London, you can live in Paris, you can live in Germany, in Frankfurt or Munich, you can live in Italy, you can live in Switzerland. The government has already softened the former non-doms tax obligations; paying inheritance tax is a particular concern for the super-rich. Thus far, the Labour left hasnt objected much. What else does this major investor want? Lighter regulation, as also suggested by the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, in her Mansion House speech last week. In particular, he wants the rules introduced in the aftermath of the global financial crisis of 2008, which keep high street retail banking and casino investment banking separate, to be reformed: Its a place where the UK is an outlier, and by being an outlier, it prevents capital formation and growth. Whats the justification for being an outlier? Why is this so difficult to change? Its hard to make a substantive policy argument that this is like a great policy for the UK. So why is it so hard to change? Well, why is it so hard to change? Its precisely because the UK has such an outsized financial sector compared to the size of its GDP that leaves the government and British taxpayers badly exposed if banks overextend themselves and have to be rescued with public funds as happened before with Northern Rock, RBS, HBOS et al. Put simply, given the national debt, another banking crash could collapse the British public finances. The governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, is alive to the dangers. He said only this week that such ring fencing rules needed to be kept in place: I do think the ring-fencing regime is an important part of the structure of the banking system. It makes the resolution of banks if theyre in trouble much easier, and it benefits, particularly in terms of the UK, consumers, business and households. Who will win? The Bank is operationally independent, and has to be to maintain confidence, so no chancellor would be reckless enough to undermine its status (as happened, in a different context, with the infamous Truss mini-Budget of 2022). However, the chancellor in the final analysis sets the Banks remit, with parliamentary authority, and can prevail on a governor to contemplate change. Bailey hasnt ruled out reform, but banking supervision is a delicate and complex task, and there is much devilment in the detail. There will probably be some compromise and consequent quiet deregulation because the government is so desperate to boost growth, even if it means the system taking on more risk. No one will notice such boring developments unless/until they go wrong. If they do, and if the Starmer government is still in charge, then the Labour Party would collapse along with the banks. How much of a gamble are Starmer and Reeves ready to take on the likes of Goldman Sachs getting it right? As the old saying goes, the most dangerous words in finance are this time, its different. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Reform UK councillors have come under fire over plans to spend 150,000 on political advisers despite vowing to cut costs. George Finch, the 19-year-old leader of Warwickshire county council, put forward the plans, which were narrowly approved, on Tuesday. The money would pay for publicly funded political advisers for Reform and the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, the two next largest parties on the council. Despite losing a vote over climate change, Reform pushed through the 150,000 spending plans. open image in gallery George Finch pushed the spending plan through on Tuesday ( Facebook ) Green councillor Sam Jones told The Guardian: Reform have had a sniff of power, theyre making it so clear that they never cared a jot for the will of their supporters. No to overpaid, unelected bureaucrats before the election, but yes to up to 150,000 of unfunded spending on political assistants now the campaigning is over. And Lib Dem councillor George Cowcher said: These proposals are all about spending some money so they can have a chum in their group and I think that is not particularly helpful given the financial state of this council. The spending plans come after Reforms success in the May local elections, during which it campaigned on a promise of cutting costs and boosting efficiency. open image in gallery Nigel Farage has promised Reform will cut costs at councils ( Getty ) It has copied Elon Musk and Donald Trumps Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) unit, sending teams of software engineers and data analysts into local authorities to identify wasteful spending. Reforms Doge unit is led by former party chairman Zia Yusuf, who quit and then returned to a prominent role in the party after 48 hours following a row over calls to ban the burqa. Sending the Doge unit into Kent county council last month, Mr Yusuf said: For too long British taxpayers have watched their money vanish into a black hole. Their taxes keep going up, their bin collections keep getting less frequent, potholes remain unfixed, their local services keep getting cut. Reform won a historic victory on a mandate to change this. As promised, we have created a UK Doge to identify and cut wasteful spending of taxpayer money. Our team will use cutting-edge technology and deliver real value for voters. open image in gallery Zia Yusuf is in charge of Reforms Doge unit ( PA Wire ) The row over political advisers at Warwickshire county council threatens to undermine the partys promise to ruthlessly cut costs and save local taxpayers cash. Mr Finch defended the plans, challenging councillors who opposed not to take advantage of the funding. Mr Finch took over Warwickshire county council temporarily after the previous council leader, also a member of Reform, resigned just weeks after being elected. On Tuesday he was voted in as the leader of Warwickshire County Council, which has 1.5bn of assets and a budget of around 500m. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Children could face two-hour limits on social media like TikTok and Snapchat as part of a government plan to crack down on compulsive phone use, the science and technology secretary has said. Peter Kyle, who is due to make an announcement in the autumn, warned of the effects on young peoples sleep and their ability to focus on studying for exams, saying he was concerned about the overall amount of time kids spend on these apps as well as their content. Among the ideas being seriously considered are a two-hour cap per platform, while a night-time or school-time curfew has also been discussed, according to reports. Last year, Australia passed a law to ban all under-16s from social media, although the UK is not expected to go that far. It comes as a new survey showed one in five children spend at least seven hours a day using phones and tablets. Mr Kyle said he was looking very carefully about the overall time kids spend on these apps. I think some parents feel a bit disempowered about how to actually make their kids healthier online, he told Sky News. I think some kids feel that sometimes there is so much compulsive behaviour with interaction with the apps, they need some help just to take control of their online lives, and those are things Im looking at really carefully. We talk a lot about a healthy childhood offline. We need to do the same online. I think sleep is very important, to be able to focus on studying is very important, he added. He added that he wanted to stop children spending hours viewing content which isnt criminal, but its unhealthy, the overuse of some of these apps. I think we can incentivise the companies and we can set a slightly different threshold that will just tip the balance in favour of parents not always being the ones who are just ripping phones out of the kids hands and having a really awkward, difficult conversation around it, he added. Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle ( PA ) It comes after Angela Rayner warned on Tuesday that time spent online is a major factor in the weakening social cohesion in the UK, along with deprivation and immigration. Warning that the UK faces a repeat of last years summer riots unless the government shows it can address peoples concerns, the deputy prime minister said that the issue was having a profound impact on society. She told colleagues: Economic insecurity, the rapid pace of de-industrialisation, immigration and the impacts on local communities and public services, technological change and the amount of time people were spending alone online, and declining trust in institutions was having a profound impact on society. TikTok and Snapchat have been approached 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Watch live as Brian Kohberger is sentenced for murdering four college students in Idaho. University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, were stabbed to death by the 30-year-old in a frenzied attack at their college home on November 13, 2022. On Wednesday (23 July), Kohberger will be sentenced after admitting to the killings for the first time at a plea-deal hearing to avoid the death penalty. In pleading guilty, Kohberger waived all rights to an appeal. The students had enjoyed a Saturday night out in the small college town of Moscow before returning in the early hours. As most of the roommates in the house slept in the six-bedroom home, Kohberger - dressed in all-black with a balaclava - broke in around 4am and crept through the kitchen sliding door before killing the four students. Prosecutors said theres still no known connection between the victims and Kohberger, who had been planning the murders for months. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice French President Emmanuel Macron, and his wife Brigitte Macron, have filed a defamation lawsuit against Candace Owens over the far-right influencers relentless and unjustified smear campaign falsely accusing Brigitte of being born a man. The 219-page defamation complaint, filed in Delaware state court Wednesday, accuses Owens of proliferating demonstrably false claims across her platforms, including in an eight-part podcast and on social media, designed to feed a frenzied fan base in pursuit of fame. These lies have caused tremendous damage to the Macrons, according to the Macrons lawsuit, which names Owens as well her business entities, which are incorporated in Delaware. The false claims have subjected the Macrons to a campaign of global humiliation, turning their lives into fodder for profit-driven lies, the complaint says. Owens has dissected their appearance, their marriage, their friends, their family, and their personal history twisting it all into a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade, the complaint alleges. The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale. Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications. It is invasive, dehumanizing, and deeply unjust. open image in gallery The Macrons have filed a defamation lawsuit against American podcaster Candace Owens, who is accused of spreading baseless conspiracy theories accusing Brigitte Macron of being a transgender woman ( POOL/AFP via Getty Images ) The 22-count complaint, filed in Superior Court, seeks damages against Owens and her companies, including punitive damages. The Independent has requested comment from a representative for Owens, who is expected to respond to the allegations on Wednesday's podcast. Brigitte Macron was previously awarded 6,750 ($9,149) in damages last year after two other far-right influencers falsely accused her of being a transgender woman. In that case, Amandine Roy and Natacha Rey were ordered to pay damages to France's first lady as well as her brother, Jean-Michel Trogneux, after the women amplified bogus claims that Brigitte Macron had never existed and that her brother had changed gender and assumed that identity. open image in gallery Brigitte Macron has been the subject of several conspiracy theory-driven transvestigations baselessly alleging she is a trans woman. She was awarded damages in Paris Criminal Court over similar claims last year ( REUTERS ) For years, baseless conspiracy theories have proliferated across social media accusing prominent women from Former First Lady Michelle Obama to Taylor Swift of secretly being transgender, so-called transvestigations that thread anti-trans rhetoric into a web of far-right conspiracy theories. The Macrons lengthy complaint in Delaware connects the case to Owenss long history of far-right conspiracy theories including debunked antisemitic tropes and attempts to minimize the Holocaust to her attacks against the French first lady, which Owens has monetized on her YouTube channel, garnering millions of views. The episodic nature of her Becoming Brigitte series resembles serialized true crime investigations, lending themselves to remixes across other platforms like TikTok, where Owenss claims have racked of tens of millions of views. Owens published the series and related X posts with reckless disregard for the truth, according to the Macrons, who are represented by attorneys with the firms Farnan LLP and Clare Locke LLP. Owens was repeatedly presented with credible, verifiable evidence disproving her claims including documentation, public records, and direct outreach from the Macrons, the lawsuit states. Instead of correcting the record, she doubled down. ... Owens, fully aware of the truth, has not only declined to retract her statements but has actively expanded on them. She has built a brand on provocation, not truth, the complaint alleges. Her content is not intended to inform but to inflame and attract attention through sensationalism and conspiracy theories, it claims. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Columbia University has announced disciplinary action against students who participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The protests included one inside the Ivy League schools main library before final exams in May and an encampment during alumni weekend in 2024. A student activist group said that nearly 80 students were told they have been suspended for one to three years, or expelled. Columbia confirmed sanctions issued by a university judicial board also include probation and degree revocations. The move comes as the Manhattan university is negotiating with President Donald Trump's administration to restore $400 million in federal funding. The administration pulled the funding, cancelling grants and contracts, in March because of what it described as the university's "failure to squelch antisemitism on campus" during the Israel-Hamas war that began in October 2023. open image in gallery A group of protesters in support of Palestinians march away from Columbia University on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 ( AP ) Columbia has since agreed to a series of demands laid out by the Republican administration, including overhauling the universitys student disciplinary process and adopting a new definition of antisemitism. Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community, the university said Tuesday. And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of university policies and rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences. It did not disclose the names of the students who were disciplined. In May, Columbia said it would lay off nearly 180 staffers and scale back research in response to the loss of funding. open image in gallery Protesters gather across the street from the main gates of Columbia University on May 21 ( AP ) Those receiving non-renewal or termination notices represent about 20 per cent of the employees funded in some manner by the terminated federal grants, the university said. A student activist group said the newly announced disciplinary action exceeds sentencing precedent for prior protests. Suspended students will be required to submit apologies in order to be allowed back on campus or face expulsion, the group said, something some students will refuse to do. We will not be deterred. We are committed to the struggle for Palestinian liberation, Columbia University Apartheid Divest said in a statement. open image in gallery Columbia graduate student Mahmoud Khalil was detained in March and is now suing the Trump administration ( AP ) Columbia was at the forefront of U.S. campus protests over the war in spring 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators set up an encampment and seized a campus building in April, leading to dozens of arrests and inspiring a wave of similar protests nationally. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has cut funding to several top U.S. universities he viewed as too tolerant of antisemitism. The administration has also cracked down on individual student protesters. Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a legal U.S. resident with no criminal record, was detained in March over his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. He is now suing the Trump administration, alleging he was falsely imprisoned, maliciously prosecuted and smeared as an antisemite. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Delta Airlines transatlantic flight bound for New York City was canceled when the pilot was arrested after she failed a breathalyzer test, police have told the Swedish media. The pilot was charged with suspicion of drunkenness and taken into custody at Stockholms Arlanda Airport around 9:00 am local time Tuesday, according to police spokesperson Nadya Norton, to Swedish daily newspaper Aftonbladet. The newspaper reported that the pilot is from the U.S. In a statement to The Independent, a spokesperson for Delta said that there was no pilot intoxication and that she has been released from custody. We continue to work with authorities to review what occurred, the statement added. The nearly nine-hour Delta Air Lines flight 205 was due to arrive in the U.S. at around 1 p.m. Eastern time. According to Aftonbladet, the suspect is a pilot from the U.S. ( AFP/Getty ) The woman has been detained and is in custody pending a prosecutor's review, according to ABC New York. A prosecutor now has 72 hours to decide whether to charge or release her. Under Swedish law, the pilot could face a fine or up to six months in jail for a "normal violation." If the blood alcohol level is significantly high, the penalty can go up to two years in prison. Police informed ABC News that, in this incident, it did not appear to be the case. In a statement, Delta Air Lines said it will fully cooperate with authorities, "as nothing is more important than the safety and security of our customers and people. We apologize to our customers for the disruption to their travel, and teams are working to get them to their destinations as soon as possible." Pilots in the U.S. are required to adhere to an 8-hour bottle to throttle rule, meaning they must not fly while under the influence, and must not fly while using any drug that could adversely affect safety, according to Federal Aviation Administration guidelines. The passengers on the morning flight were entitled to receive $705 in cash compensation because of the incident, according to aviation site View From The Wing. The compensation, which covers all passengers who were on board the 226-seat Boeing 767-332 aircraft, will cost Delta approximately $160,000, thanks to European Union rule 261, which covers lengthy delays and inconvenience. Costs associated with temporary lodging, meals, and any possible disruption to follow-on flights are not included in the payout, VFTW reports. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency mandates random alcohol testing for flight and cabin crew operating out of EU member states, as per Regulation 2018/1042. However, this incident is reportedly not the first case of alleged intoxication to occur, as two Delta flight attendants working on Deltas flight 49 from Amsterdam to New York JFK were also arrested for failing a breathalyzer in November 2024. The Independent contacted Delta Airlines and Swedavia 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, planned to head to the Middle East as the U.S. tries once again to reach a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, the State Department's spokesperson said Tuesday. Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters that Witkoff was going to the region with a strong hope that the U.S. can deliver a ceasefire deal as well as a new humanitarian corridor for aid distribution. I would suggest that we might have some good news, but, again, as we know, this could be a constantly changing dynamic, said Bruce, who didnt have other details about where Witkoff would be going or what he had planned. Three U.S. officials said Witkoff is traveling to Europe this week to discuss a range of issues, including Gaza and the push for a ceasefire, but they had no details about Middle East stops and did not share where specifically Witkoff would travel to and when. The officials were not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The State Department press office didnt respond to messages seeking more details on Witkoffs travel, and it wasnt immediately clear what his schedule would be this week. A breakthrough in talks on a ceasefire deal has eluded the Trump administration for months as conditions worsen in Gaza. The territory had its deadliest day yet for aid-seekers in over 21 months of war, with at least 85 Palestinians killed while trying to reach food Sunday. The Israeli army has said it fired warning shots, but says the reported death toll was greatly inflated. The United Nations food agency accused Israeli forces of firing on the crowd of Palestinians seeking humanitarian aid. Bruce said the incident that took place while civilians were trying to reach aid entering through the Zikim crossing with Israel is absolutely horrible" and reinforced why the U.S. is pushing for a new humanitarian corridor to be created as part of any truce. The sides have held weeks of talks in Qatar, reporting small signs of progress but no major breakthroughs. Officials have said a main sticking point is the redeployment of Israeli troops after any ceasefire takes place. The U.S. plan calls for a 60-day truce, during which Hamas would release some hostages while Israel would free Palestinian prisoners and allow a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza. During the 60 days, the sides are also to begin negotiations on a permanent end to the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas yields power and is disarmed, while Hamas says it will not release all of the hostages until the war is over. It is seeking assurances that Netanyahu will not resume the war after the 60 days, as he did in March after an early ceasefire expired. Hamas is holding 50 hostages 20 of whom are believed to still be alive. ___ Amiri reported from New York. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The largest great white shark ever tagged by an ocean research group in the Atlantic has been spotted just off the coast of Massachusetts. Contender, a mature male shark measuring 13.8 feet and weighing around 1,653 pounds, emerged near Nantucket on July 18. Shark Week 2025, an annual programming block from Discovery, coincidentally began two days later on July 20. The sharks tag pinged around 100 miles south of Boston and 30 miles from Cape Cod a popular tourist destination. The powerful animal was tagged on January 17, around 45 miles off the coast of Florida and Georgia, in order to help researchers and conservationists. Contender, the largest Great White shark tagged in the Atlantic, has been spotted off the coast of Massachusetts ( OCEARCH ) Contender then headed up to the Outer Banks in North Carolina, which researchers say is typical of great whites. It is believed the stop may be due to rich food resources in the region and gives the animal time to prepare for a journey north that could be more than 1000 miles. According to Ocearch, Contenders name is in honor of Contender Boats, a longtime partner of the research group, whose industry-leading sport fishing and pleasure boats enable its research missions. Contender is the largest male white shark ever caught, SPOT tagged, released and now studied in the North West Atlantic white shark population. The tag, which pings when the sharks dorsal fin breaches the surface, will last for five years. Researchers estimate Contender to be about 32 years old, with great whites typically living between 30 and 40 years. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that some creatures can reach the age of 70. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Los Angeles area family of Latino renters suing their landlord over a 2024 eviction claim they were met with a thinly veiled threat that they would be picked up by immigration agents, amid the ongoing, high-profile campaign of raids across the city. Its not fair for him to take advantage of that, former tenant Yicenia Morales told The Los Angeles Times. I was born here. I have a birth certificate. I pay taxes. I was already depressed over the eviction, she added. Now Im hurt, embarrassed and nervous as well. Will he really call ICE on us? Its racist, her attorney, Sarah McCracken, added in an interview with the paper. Not only is it unethical and probably illegal, but its just a really wild thing to say especially since my clients are U.S. citizens. The controversy stems from a June message from attorney Rod Fehlman, whom Morales and her lawyers at the firm Tobener Ravenscroft said they saw in state records was the legal point of contact for landlord Celia Ruiz and her real estate agent David Benavides. Alleged ICE-related threat to renter suing ex-landlord comes as immigration agents have conducted large-scale operations across Los Angeles area ( Getty ) In the midst of a back-and-forth over the case in June, Fehlman sent an aggressive message referencing recent arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, McCracken said. It is also interesting to note that your clients are likely to be picked up by ICE and deported prior to trial thanks to all the good work the Trump administration has done in regards to immigration in California, Fehlman told the renters legal team in email after being served this summer, according to McCracken. Fehlman told The Independent he cannot comment on ongoing litigation, but said the message was taken out of context. Instead of a threat, he said, he was warning Moraless San Francisco-based lawyer about the ongoing pattern of ICE agents arresting immigrants at courthouses and immigration offices. My email mentions nothing about Ms. McCracken's client's citizenship, Fehlman wrote in an email. This is an ongoing problem in Southern California and a sad reality that litigants have been picked randomly at Courthouses. It is unfortunate that this comment has been taken out of context intentionally by Ms. McCracken's firm and used to defame my office. (The real estate agent named in the suit responded to the complaint with a different law firm than Fehlmans, according to the Times, and the renters have been unable to serve the landlord with the complaint yet. Fehlman did not respond to a question regarding which parties he was or had been representing in the eviction dispute.) McCracken told The Independent she was taken aback by her exchanges with Fehlman. This case doesnt involve my clients race or ethnicity or immigration status, or at least it didnt until he made that comment, she said. We just thought it was irrelevant and an inappropriate way to try and get an edge in the case. The Independent has contacted Morales for comment. Real estate agent Benavides, when reached by The Independent, hung up. On Tuesday, California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned that discriminating, retaliating against, or attempting to influence tenants based on their immigration status, including by reporting tenants to immigration services, is illegal. California tenants no matter their immigration status have a right to safe housing and to access housing documents in a language they can understand, Bonta said in a statement. I will use the full force of my office to go after those who seek to take advantage of California tenants during an already challenging time. McCracken said she has encountered landlords making verbal comments about ICE to tenants in the past. Now, however, she said people seem emboldened to make boundary-pushing spoken and written comments about race and immigration status to renters under the second Trump administration, based on what she has heard from potential clients and legal colleagues. Renters have faced threats over their immigration status predating the second Trump term, too. In 2019, a New York judge fined a landlord $5,000 and ordered the payment of $12,000 in damages to a tenant who was threatened with ICE if they didnt pay rent, thought to be the first such case in the country. Earlier this year, an Illinois judge ruled on a similar case, dating back to 2022. Under the Trump administration, with its mass expansion of military-style immigration raids, unscrupulous individuals have also allegedly impersonated ICE to achieve unsavory ends, including a January incident in which a North Carolina man allegedly pretended to be an immigration agent to coerce a woman into having sex. ICE impersonators have also allegedly harassed businesses and intimated motorists. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Former President Barack Obama has released a rare statement on Russia-gate after President Donald Trump accused him of committing treason. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement published by multiple outlets Tuesday. The allegations against Obama stemmed from a report issued Friday by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Gabbard claimed Obama and his top officials committed treasonous conspiracy in the investigation surrounding Russias interference in the 2016 election. Russia has denied meddling in the election and Trump has insisted the assessments about the interference are a hoax. open image in gallery Former President Barack Obama called the Trump administrations allegations about Russia-gate' bizarre after President Donald Trump accused him of committing 'treason.' ( Getty ) The national intelligence director said she was referring Obama administration officials, including ex-FBI director James Comey, to the Justice Department for prosecution over allegations they had manufactured intelligence to substantiate the idea that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to help Trump beat Obamas former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The anti-Obama rhetoric continued when Gabbard appeared on Maria Bartiromos Fox News show Sunday Morning Futures over the weekend and accused the former president of orchestrating a years-long coup to keep Trump from the White House. Trump shared a fake, AI- generated, video of Obama being arrested and thrown in jail on his Truth Social account Sunday. In the Oval Office Tuesday, Trump accused his predecessor of treason. "It's there, he's guilty. This was treason," Trump said, according to Reuters. "They tried to steal the election, they tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobody's ever imagined, even in other countries." Trump did not provide any evidence to back up his claims. open image in gallery "It's there, he's guilty. This was treason," Trump said of Obama in the Oval Office Tuesday, following his administration's claims that the former president was involved in a conspiracy to keep him out of the White House ( AFP/Getty ) After days of accusations and threats of prosecution being hurled at Obama the former president released a statement. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, Rodenbush said. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, he added. Rodenbush also mentioned the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committees 2020 report that found Russia used resources, including Republican political operative Paul Manafort and the WikiLeaks website, to try to influence the 2016 election in Trumps favor. The report did not conclude the Trump campaign engaged with Russia to help carry out the alleged conspiracy. open image in gallery The allegations against Obama stemmed from a report issued Friday by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard ( Getty ) The new allegations against Obama come as the Trump administration is embroiled in its own conflict surrounding the handling of government files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Gabbard called Obamas statement the art of deflection in a Fox News interview Tuesday. She then repeated her earlier talking points: "Led by President Obama, there was an effort to create a document that would serve as a foundation for what would be a years-long coup against President Trump, therefore trying to subvert the will of the American people. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Artificial intelligence chatbots are increasingly becoming digital companions for teenagers, offering advice on everything from fashion to party planning, a new study suggests. This trend is exemplified by Kayla Chege, a 15-year-old high school student in Kansas, who consults ChatGPT for guidance on back-to-school shopping, makeup colours, low-calorie choices at Smoothie King, and ideas for her Sweet 16 and her younger sisters birthday party. While the honours student makes a point not to have chatbots do her homework and limits her interactions to mundane questions, interviews with The Associated Press and a new study indicate that teenagers are increasingly interacting with AI as a companion, offering advice and friendship. "Everyone uses AI for everything now. Its really taking over," Ms Chege said, reflecting on the impact of AI tools on her generation. "I think kids use AI to get out of thinking." For the past couple of years, concerns about cheating at school have dominated the conversation around kids and AI. But artificial intelligence is playing a much larger role in many of their lives. AI, teens say, has become a go-to source for personal advice, emotional support, everyday decision-making and problem-solving. AI is always available. It never gets bored with you open image in gallery Bruce Perry, 17, uses artificial intelligence in school assignments and for personal questions ( Associated Press ) More than 70 per cent of teens have used AI companions and half use them regularly, according to a new study from Common Sense Media, a group that studies and advocates for using screens and digital media sensibly. The study defines AI companions as platforms designed to serve as digital friends, like Character.AI or Replika, which can be customised with specific traits or personalities and can offer emotional support, companionship and conversations that can feel human-like. But popular sites like ChatGPT and Claude, which mainly answer questions, are being used in the same way, the researchers say. As the technology rapidly gets more sophisticated, teenagers and experts worry about AIs potential to redefine human relationships and exacerbate crises of loneliness and youth mental health. AI is always available. It never gets bored with you. Its never judgmental, says Ganesh Nair, an 18-year-old in Arkansas. When youre talking to AI, you are always right. Youre always interesting. You are always emotionally justified. All that used to be appealing, but as Nair heads to college this fall, he wants to step back from using AI. Nair got spooked after a high school friend who relied on an AI companion for heart-to-heart conversations with his girlfriend later had the chatbot write the breakup text ending his two-year relationship. That felt a little bit dystopian, that a computer generated the end to a real relationship, said Nair. Its almost like we are allowing computers to replace our relationships with people. How many teens are using AI? New study stuns researchers open image in gallery Bruce Perry, 17, shows his ChatGPT history at a coffee shop ( Associated Press ) In the Common Sense Media survey, 31 per cent of teens said their conversations with AI companions were as satisfying or more satisfying than talking with real friends. Even though half of teens said they distrust AI's advice, 33 per cent had discussed serious or important issues with AI instead of real people. Those findings are worrisome, says Michael Robb, the studys lead author and head researcher at Common Sense, and should send a warning to parents, teachers and policymakers. The now-booming and largely unregulated AI industry is becoming as integrated with adolescence as smartphones and social media are. Its eye-opening, said Robb. When we set out to do this survey, we had no understanding of how many kids are actually using AI companions. The study polled more than 1,000 teens nationwide in April and May. Adolescence is a critical time for developing identity, social skills and independence, Robb said, and AI companions should complement not replace real-world interactions. If teens are developing social skills on AI platforms where they are constantly being validated, not being challenged, not learning to read social cues or understand somebody elses perspective, they are not going to be adequately prepared in the real world, he said. The nonprofit analysed several popular AI companions in a risk assessment, finding ineffective age restrictions and that the platforms can produce sexual material, give dangerous advice and offer harmful content. The group recommends that minors not use AI companions. A concerning trend to teens and adults alike open image in gallery Telzers research has found that children as young as 8 are using generative AI and also found that teens are using AI to explore their sexuality and for companionship ( Associated Press ) Researchers and educators worry about the cognitive costs for youth who rely heavily on AI, especially in their creativity, critical thinking and social skills. The potential dangers of children forming relationships with chatbots gained national attention last year when a 14-year-old Florida boy died by suicide after developing an emotional attachment to a Character.AI chatbot. Parents really have no idea this is happening, said Eva Telzer, a psychology and neuroscience professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. All of us are struck by how quickly this blew up. Telzer is leading multiple studies on youth and AI, a new research area with limited data. Telzers research has found that children as young as 8 are using generative AI and also found that teens are using AI to explore their sexuality and for companionship. In focus groups, Telzer found that one of the top apps teens frequent is SpicyChat AI, a free role-playing app intended for adults. Many teens also say they use chatbots to write emails or messages to strike the right tone in sensitive situations. One of the concerns that comes up is that they no longer have trust in themselves to make a decision, said Telzer. They need feedback from AI before feeling like they can check off the box that an idea is OK or not. Arkansas teen Bruce Perry, 17, says he relates to that and relies on AI tools to craft outlines and proofread essays for his English class. If you tell me to plan out an essay, I would think of going to ChatGPT before getting out a pencil, Perry said. He uses AI daily and has asked chatbots for advice in social situations, to help him decide what to wear and to write emails to teachers, saying AI articulates his thoughts faster. Perry says he feels fortunate that AI companions were not around when he was younger. Im worried that kids could get lost in this, Perry said. I could see a kid that grows up with AI not seeing a reason to go to the park or try to make a friend. Other teens agree, saying the issues with AI and its effect on childrens mental health are different from those of social media. Social media complemented the need people have to be seen, to be known, to meet new people, Nair said. I think AI complements another need that runs a lot deeper our need for attachment and our need to feel emotions. It feeds off of that. Its the new addiction, Nair added. Thats how I see 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trumps administration hailed a prisoner exchange with Venezuela as a diplomatic success that brought home 10 Americans who were wrongfully detained" there. The men there were hostages, according to a statement from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee shared by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Those Americans are now free and back in our homeland, Rubio said. But one of those men is an American-Venezuelan dual citizen who was convicted of murdering three people in Spain in 2016, according to Venezuelan court records and statements from officials in Madrid. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, 55, was sentenced in Venezuela in January 2024 to 30 years in prison after he was convicted of killing three people in Madrid in 2016. He was accused of escaping to his home country, where he was arrested and prosecuted in 2018. Venezuela prohibits the extradition of its citizens, and Venezuelans can be tried for crimes committed outside the country. Images shared by the U.S. State Department show Ortiz with other Americans who were imprisoned in Venezuela smiling together and waving small American flags as they returned to America on July 18. The Trump administration negotiated a prisoner swap with Venezuela that returned 252 Venezuelans imprisoned in El Salvador in exchange for 10 Americans who were returned to the United States. Among them is Dahud Hanid Ortiz, second from right, who is accused of murdering three people in Spain ( US Embassy in Venezuela ) A spokesperson for the State Department refused to confirm his identity. The United States had the opportunity to secure the release of all Americans detained in Venezuela, many of whom reported being subjected to torture and other harsh conditions, the spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent. For privacy reasons, I wont get into the details of any specific case. Ortiz, a former U.S. Marine who served in the Iraq War, reportedly killed three people in Usera, a working-class district in the south of the Spanish capital in 2016. His alleged target was Victor Salas, a lawyer who was in a relationship with his ex-wife who he had threatened to kill, according to records reviewed by El Pais. Ortiz is accused of killing two female employees at the firm and a client he mistakenly believed was Salas. According to Argentinian outlet Infobae, Ortiz used a combat knife and an iron bar to stab and bludgeon the victims, then set the lawyers office on fire. Following their deaths, Ortiz returned to Germany, where he was living at the time, and then travelled to Latin America, where he was arrested. We all feel like weve been deceived, betrayed and let down, Salas told Spanish program Vamos a Ver on Tuesday. We feel deceived because Dahud Hanid Ortiz was never a political prisoner. He was a murderer who was convicted and sentenced by the Venezuelan authorities. The case record makes it quite clear that hes a criminal. He told TeleMadrid that the governments of Donald Trump and Maduro have just handed a killer his freedom someone whos a real danger to society without anyone bothering to provide a real explanation. The prisoner exchange also saw the release of dozens of Venezuelans that the Trump administration had deported to a brutal prison in El Salvador after accusing them of being alien enemies deployed by that countrys government to invade the U.S. Under the deal, 252 Venezuelans including men who were accused of being Tren de Aragua gang members and summarily deported to El Salvadors Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT were returned to their home country. Those deportees were imprisoned at the facility for more than four months. Trump officials had labelled those men the worst of the worst criminals, and alien enemies who committed warfare on U.S. soil yet they were released in Venezuela, and could be brought back to the United States under court orders. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Justice Department officials told President Donald Trump earlier this year that his name, among others, appeared in the Jeffrey Epstein documents, according to a report. Attorney General Pam Bondi informed the president in May that his name appeared in the documents, senior officials told the Wall Street Journal. His name was one of many high-profile figures in the files, the outlet reported. However, a mention in the file does not mean there was wrongdoing. One official told the outlet that hundreds of names are in the documents. This is another fake news story, just like the previous story by The Wall Street Journal, White House communications director Steven Cheung told the paper. Last week, the Journal published a report claiming that Trump gave Epstein a 50th birthday card containing a sexually suggestive drawing and a message suggesting the men shared secrets. The president vehemently denied the claims and sued the paper and its owners for $10 billion. open image in gallery Donald Trump was told in May that his name appeared in the so-called Epstein files, a report claims ( NBC News ) During the May meeting, Trump was told that DOJ officials didnt plan to release any more documents related to investigation because the material contained child pornography and victims personal information, the outlet reported. The president then said he would defer to the Justice Departments decision against making any further disclosures. The revelation comes as the president tries to distance himself from the late financier and the fanfare surrounding the case. Last month, Elon Musk, formerly known as Trumps first buddy claimed that Trumps name appeared in the files. The billionaire later deleted that tweet. Trump has publicly denied that he was named in the files. Attention around the case has bubbled up since the DOJ released a July 6 memo that said the department would make no further disclosures in the case. Even MAGA and prominent Republicans have since called for increased transparency around the handling of the case. The July 6 memo stung to some, including Trumps MAGA following, who had been anticipating more revelations in the case ever since Trump promised on the campaign trail to declassify the files. Earlier this year, Bondi said she had a truckload of files to review from the FBI. In February, she even said the client list of high-profile associates linked to the sex offenders trafficking scheme was sitting on her desk. That month, she also released Phase 1 of the files, a tranche of documents that included mostly publicly available information. open image in gallery Earlier this year, Bondi said she had a truckload of files to review from the FBI. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Amid mounting public pressure, the president asked Bondi to make public any pertinent grand jury transcripts. Bondi then asked the judges overseeing the cases of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, the financiers former girlfriend who is now serving 20 years behind bars for her role in a scheme to abuse girls with Epstein. Experts have noted that releasing the transcripts would only account for a small portion of the files at play. On Wednesday, a federal judge in Florida rejected a request from the Trump administration to unseal the grand jury transcripts related to an investigation into Epstein in the state in the mid-2000s. A judge in New York quickly followed with a similar order. Justice Department officials are planning to meet with Maxwell in the coming days, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Tuesday. Later that day, the House Oversight Committee approved a subpoena for Maxwell. Trump said that the subpoena for Maxwell "sounds appropriate" during questions from reporters at the White House. Trump has been trying to keep an arms length from the case, but his frustration has shown through. The president reportedly hung up on a reporter after 30 seconds on the phone Tuesday after he asked about unearthed archived photos showing Epstein attending the presidents 1993 wedding to Marla Maples. Youve got to be kidding me, Trump said before hanging up, CNN reported. Trump has also claimed the Epstein files were a hoax cooked up by the Democrats. Last week, he went so far as to attack his past supporters in a Truth Social post for buying into this bulls***, hook, line and sinker. He slammed: Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats work, dont even think about talking of our incredible and unprecedented success, because I dont want their support anymore! 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. Last week, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche asked judges in Florida and New York to release transcripts from grand jury proceedings that resulted in indictments against Epstein and Maxwell, saying, Transparency to the American public is of the utmost importance to this Administration. However, appeals from both the Trump administration and Maxwell were denied Wednesday by two separate judges. The evidence the Trump administration hoped to unseal, however, likely wouldnt reveal much, according to experts, who say prosecutors try to provide just enough to get charges not introduce an entire investigation. U.S. Judge Robin L. Rosenberg in West Palm Beach wrote in her ruling that the request to release the documents related to an investigation into Epstein from 2005 to 2007 did not meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under federal law that could make them public. Grand jury proceedings are typically done in secret and kept from public view. Meanwhile, New York federal Judge Paul A. Engelmayer wrote in a filing that Maxwell, who requested access to grand jury transcripts in her case, has not shown, or attempted to show, that the grand jury materials in her case are apt to reveal any deficiency in the proceedings leading to her indictment. Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. ( US District Court for the Southern District of New York ) Engelmayer wrote there was no compelling necessity for Maxwell to review her grand jury transcripts, which the Trump Administration has also requested to unseal. The Court will review these transcripts expeditiously. In the event the Court determines it would benefit from Maxwells commentary as to discrete aspect of these transcripts, the Court stands ready to make that excerpt, or a synopsis thereof, available to her counsel to facilitate counsels briefing, Engelmayer wrote. Engelmayer continued: But there is no justification for Maxwell to obtain the extraordinary relief of plenary access to the grand jury transcripts in her case. Both rejections come about a week after the Justice Department asked the judges to release the records, likely in a move to appease the MAGA base of President Donald Trump, many of whom believe the government has not been transparent with their investigation into Epstein. While Trump ran on the promise that more information would be released about Epstein and his associates, he has since reversed course, with Attorney General Pam Bondi releasing a joint memo with the FBI indicating there would be no more information shared about the financiers conviction. In 2008, Epstein made a deal with federal prosecutors in Florida that would let him avoid more serious federal charges and instead plead guilty to state charges of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and solicitation of prostitution. Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He later died by suicide in Manhattan federal court while awaiting trial. Maxwell was later convicted at trial and sentenced to 20 years in prison. After news of the rejection was made public Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters she would let the president speak to whether he wants to see an appeal. With reporting from the Associated Press. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Trump administration officials have awarded a $1.26 billion contract to build a sprawling tent camp to detain immigrants at an Army base in Texas. The 5,000-bed facility at Fort Bliss, once complete, will be the largest immigration detention facility in the country. The deal, awarded to Virginia-based contractor Acquisition Logistics Company, was first reported by The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg News. The contractor, which has previously done supply chain work for the military, does not appear to have past detention experience, according to a review of records by Bloomberg. The Army is paying $232 million worth of the contract, per the outlet. open image in gallery 5,000-bed facility at Fort Bliss in Texas would be largest immigration detention center in country, as Trump administration expands detention system with $45 billion in new funding ( US Department of Defense/AFP via ) The deal comes after a previous $3.8 billion contract to build a tent camp at Fort Bliss was awarded, then retracted earlier this year. The contracted detention center adds to capacity in the area, where there is an existing Immigration and Customs Enforcement tent facility in use in northeast El Paso. Critics argue that tent-based detention camps suffer from poor conditions. Detainees say that at a Florida detention center dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, hastily constructed out of tents and trailers on a defunct air strip, they were given no water, maggot-infested food, and exposed to mosquitoes. Civil rights groups have sued over conditions at the facility, alleging detainees were denied due process and legal counsel. open image in gallery The Trump administration has expanded the militarys role in immigration system, including by using the Guantanamo Bay naval base to house migrant detainees ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Since taking office, the Trump administration has embarked on a mass expansion of immigration-related spending. The White Houses signature One Big, Beautiful Bill spending package includes an unprecedented $45 billion worth of detention-related funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which has already used Fort Bliss as a hub for deportation flights. As of last week, more than 56,000 people were in immigration detention across the country, and the administration has said its further investments could increase bed capacity to 100,000. The military reportedly has plans to use bases in Indiana and New Jersey to further expand detention capabilities. open image in gallery Fort Bliss is already a hub for deportation flights ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) With this spike in detention comes worsening conditions in immigrant detention centers, according to critics. Video from inside a New York City detention facility shows about two dozen people on a cement floor with nothing but emergency blankets near a partially exposed toilet Look how they have us like dogs in here, the person filming the videos can be heard saying in Spanish. At least 14 people have died this fiscal year in immigration detention, outpacing past administrations. Outside of detaining immigrants, the Trump administration has made marked use of the military in other areas of immigration policy, including conducting deportation flights, sending Marines into the streets of Los Angeles to respond to anti-immigration raid protests, and creating new military border zones where troops can arrest border-crossers. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ian Maxwell, the brother of jailed Jeffrey Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, has thanked President Donald Trump for making a positive statement about his sister in 2020 and showing her humanity. Appearing on Piers Morgan Uncensored on Tuesday to discuss the revived furore over Epstein after Trumps Justice Department said that no client list belonging to the late billionaire pedophile existed, Ian Maxwell once more defended Ghislaine, who was jailed in 2022 for her role in the disgraced financiers sex trafficking operation. Asked by Morgan whether she had pulled the wool over your eyes regarding her involvement in Epsteins crimes, Maxwell responded: No, I believe my sister. open image in gallery Ian Maxwell appears on Piers Morgan Uncensored on Tuesday July 22 2025 ( Piers Morgan Uncensored ) Ive known her [for] 60 years, Piers. You know, Im not going to suddenly say she started pulling the wool. I dont think so. I dont believe so. Not for a second. Pivoting to Trump, Maxwell said: President Trump was asked the only time, I believe, in public at the tail end of his presidency, so, you know, November, December 2021 [sic] about Ghislaine and he said, You know, I dont know much about it, but I wish her well. And I dont think that anyone else showed the slightest piece of humanity, not anybody at that time, and yet he did. He didnt need to. Hes the president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world. He couldve just sloughed it off. He didnt. He made a positive statement. I am very grateful to that and I know Ghislaine was too. The comment Maxwell referred to was actually made by Trump in July 2020 when Ghislaine was arrested and charged with sex trafficking. I havent really been following it too much, the president said at the time. I just wish her well, frankly. Ive met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach. And I guess they lived in Palm Beach. But I wish her well. Asked about it a month later by then-Axios reporter Jonathan Swan, Trump doubled down and said: I wish her well, Id wish you well, Id wish a lot of people well. Good luck. Let them prove somebody was guilty. Her boyfriend died in jail and people are still trying to figure out how did it happen? Was it suicide? Was he killed? And I do wish her well. Im not looking for anything bad for her. Im not looking bad for anybody. The president remains under pressure to explain his past friendship with Epstein after the Justice Departments attempt to draw a line under the case sparked an angry backlash from his own supporters, with many pointing to Attorney General Pam Bondis declaration earlier this year that his case file was sitting on my desk waiting to be reviewed as suggesting its release was imminent. open image in gallery Mug shot of Ghislaine Maxwell taken at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York City ( Federal Bureau of Prisons ) Archive photos and video indicate that Trump and Epstein knew each other socially in New York and Florida from the 1980s to the early 2000s, and the president is on record as praising the abuser as a terrific guy. However, he has since distanced himself and is currently suing The Wall Street Journal for alleging that he once sent him a lewd hand-drawn birthday card. The president has tried hard to change the narrative over the last two weeks, attacking numerous old foes on social media in scattergun fashion, rebuking his own past supporters for dwelling on the subject, and complaining to the press at a recent cabinet meeting: Are you still talking about Jeffrey Epstein? This guy's been talked about for years. Are people still talking about this guy, this creep? Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced on Tuesday that, at the direction of AG Bondi, he had contacted Ghislaines legal counsel about arranging an interview with her and declared: No one is above the law and no lead is off-limits. Trump signaled his approval of that step in the Oval Office shortly afterwards, saying it sounded appropriate. Meanwhile, a panel of judges has ruled that more information is needed before they can rule on the release of grand jury testimony related to Epstein, and House Speaker Mike Johnson has declined to hold a House vote on whether to order the release of all federal files on him until after Congresss summer recess. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer has issued a subpoena ordering Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of Jeffrey Epstein, to testify from prison in Florida. Comer set Maxwells deposition date for August 11 as the Trump administration faces mounting criticism over the Epstein files. Maxwell is set to be interviewed at the Federal Correctional Institution Tallahassee, where she is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in helping Epstein recruit, groom, and abuse young girls. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also announced Tuesday he has contacted Maxwells attorneys to set up a meeting with her. Comer said the Justice Department is cooperating and will help facilitate the deposition at the prison. Some have called for Maxwell to testify to shed light on if any other people were involved with Epsteins actions. The subpoena comes after Speaker of the House Mike Johnson questioned whether Maxwells testimony will be truthful. If they see fit to bring in Ghislaine Maxwell for testimony, thats fine, Johnson told reporters Wednesday. I will note the obvious concern, the caveat that Chairman Comer and I and everyone has, that, can she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? open image in gallery Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Maxwell on Wednesday and plans a prison interview next month. ( US District Court for the Southe ) I mean, this is a person whos been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts and acts against innocent young people, he added. I mean, can we trust what shes going to say, even if she raises her hand and says that shell testify under oath? Maxwells attorney, David Markus, told The Independent he understands the general concern that Congress should vet witnesses, but says Johnsons worries are unfounded in this case. If Ms. Maxwell agrees to testify before Congress and not take the 5thand that remains a big ifshe would testify truthfully, as she always has said she would and as she will with Mr. Blanche, Markus wrote. The truth should not be feared or preemptively dismissed. No previous prosecutor from the Southern District of New York or elsewhere has had the courage to meet with Ms. Maxwell and ask her these important questions. As for the Congressional subpoena, Ms. Maxwell is taking this one step at a time, he added. She looks forward to her meeting with the Department of Justice, and that discussion will help inform how she proceeds. open image in gallery Speaker of the House Mike Johnson told reporters Wednesday he's skeptical about whether Maxwell will be truthful if she testifies before Congress ( Getty Images ) Johnson said the House will go on its annual summer recess beginning Wednesday. The break comes as Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna a Republican and Democrat, respectively lead a charge to force a vote that would compel the Justice Department to release more information on Epstein. Earlier this month, the Justice Department and FBI released a memo claiming that Epstein did not have a client list, even though Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested it was on her desk months prior. The memo also confirmed the financier died by suicide while in jail in August 2019, after years of conspiracy theories surrounding his death. The memo stated there would be no further disclosure related to the Epstein investigation. Trump has defended Bondi and his administration amid backlash from both sides of the aisle. He also directed Bondi to begin the process of unsealing grand jury testimony related to the Epstein investigation. The Justice Department has since requested that the testimony be unsealed. Judges in Florida and New York rejected the requests Wednesday. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Minnesota Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar has denounced the Republican Party after House Speaker Mike Johnson declined to hold a vote on the release of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein before Congress breaks for its summer recess. The pedophile protection party is shutting down Congress just to avoid voting on the release of the Epstein files, Omar wrote on X on Tuesday. Despite risking President Donald Trumps ire by calling for the release of the files himself last week on a podcast, Johnson has since changed course and said on Monday the administration needed space to vet the documents in question due to their likely sensitivity. open image in gallery Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar has lambasted Republicans over their refusal to hold a vote on the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files ( Getty ) Speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill, Johnson was asked whether the House of Representatives would get to vote on whether or not to release the files and answered: If further congressional action is necessary or appropriate, then well look at that... I dont think were at that point yet, because we agree with the president. A day later, he called an early start to representatives five-week recess, leaving no time for a vote on the matter until their return in September, by which point other matters may be considered more pressing. The American people are best served by putting an end to Democrats side shows, Johnson said at a press conference defending his manoeuvre. Thats what were doing by not allowing the Rules Committee to continue with that nonsense this week. Were done being lectured on transparency. Omar, who is regularly targeted by conservatives, was by no means the only member of Congress to attack Johnson over the decision. open image in gallery House Speaker Mike Johnson at Tuesdays press conference ( AP ) Her ally, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, wrote on X: Ummm so let me get this straight: Republicans have ground Congress to a halt and are considering adjourning the entire House for six weeks to avoid releasing the info they have on Epstein? What is going on here? Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, an anti-Trump Republican rebel who has drafted legislation of his own calling for the release of the files, addressed the House GOP leader in a post on X that read: Speaker Johnson, why are you running cover for an underage sex trafficking ring and pretending this is a partisan issue? MAGA voted for this. There could be some movement in the interim on the Epstein case, which has bitterly divided his base and left him scrambling to change the national conversation amid awkward questions about his past friendship with the financier. open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein died after taking his own life in a New York City jail in August 2019 ( Florida Department of Law Enforcement ) A panel of federal court judges is currently weighing up whether relevant grand jury transcripts can be released at Attorney General Pam Bondis request. Meanwhile, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has announced that he is attempting to arrange a meeting with the pedophiles jailed accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell. Trump signaled his apparent approval of that step in the Oval Office on Tuesday, saying it sounded appropriate. The House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee has also voted to subpoena Maxwell. This is progress. We will not stop fighting until the Epstein files are released. Trump and Bondi must stop blocking the American people from the truth, Oversight Committee Democrats wrote on X. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Vice President JD Vance was met with boos from a crowd in Nantucket, Massachusetts, who trolled him with poster-sized photos of his face in a well-known meme, inflatable couches and plush cats in what was called a MeowTucket protest. The protest, promoted heavily by Amanda McGonigle, who is behind the Instagram account catsonacouch, was meant to disrupt Vances time on the island as he headlined a Republican fundraising dinner. In keeping with the Instagram accounts theme, many of the signs mocked Vance by referencing online jokes or memes about the vice president. That includes cats a reference to Vances controversial childless cat lady comment during the campaign. Trump drew ire during the campaign for saying the country was being run by "a bunch of childless cat ladies. There were also couches at the protest a reference to a fictitious rumor that Vance had sex with a couch. Protestors even set up an inflatable couch underneath a massive tarp that contained an image of a popular Vance meme as a photo opportunity at MeowTucket. As Vances motorcade drove by, crowds of people yelled fascist and called for Vance to leave. open image in gallery Vice President JD Vance faced an unwelcome greeting on Nantucket by protesters mocking him with references to cats and couches. ( AP ) Signs brought to the protest said phrases such as In America, the law is king and fascists not welcome. To expand the mockery, protesters wore shirts with cats on them and held up cat masks to their faces. The protest was organized was several groups. McGonigle used her popular Instagram account, which is dedicated to fighting fascism, along with mocking Vance, to promote MeowTucket. Ahead of the protest, McGonigle also distributed thousands of Wanted posters featuring meme photos of Vance. McGonigle says the purpose of her account was to surpass Vances number of followers, but also took on the new mission of constantly trolling him so he does not know a moment's peace for the next three and a half years at least. Vances time on Nantucket, an island known as a summer vacation haven for the wealthy, was brief. The vice president hosted a Republican National Committee fundraiser ahead of the 2026 midterm election season. Tickets to the ritzy dinner were a minimum of $100,000 The event brought in a reported $3 million, according to the New York Post. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The federal judge overseeing Kilmar Abrego Garcias criminal case on smuggling charges has ordered his release from jail before trial, finding that prosecutors failed to show any evidence that his history or arguments against him warrant ongoing detention. That order arrived moments after another federal judge overseeing his wrongful deportation case blocked Donald Trumps administration from immediately arresting and deporting him after he is released from jail. But he wont be released just yet. Attorneys for Abrego Garcia asked a magistrate judge for a 30-day pause on any order for his release so they can evaluate options as they brace for immigration officers to arrest and remove him a second time. The judge granted that request Wednesday. Federal prosecutors have sought to bring his criminal case to trial as soon as possible, brushing up against demands from immigration officials who told the courts they plan to arrest and deport him before a trial even begins. Abrego Garcia has pleaded not guilty, and a trial is set to begin January 27, 2026. open image in gallery The judge overseeing Kilmar Abrego Garcias criminal case has ordered his release from pretrial detention, while another federal judge has blocked ICE from immediately deporting the Salvadoran immigrant who has been at the center of Trumps anti-immigration agenda ( AP ) Abrego Garcias high-profile wrongful removal case has been at the center of Trumps anti-immigration agenda, dovetailing with the administrations defiance of court orders and open hostility to the judges ruling against them. The Trump administration spent weeks insisting Abrego Garcia would never be allowed back into the country after admitting he was wrongfully deported to a Salvadoran prison in March. Yet he was abruptly flown back to the U.S. last month to face a criminal indictment in Tennessee. In recent court hearings in two different states, lawyers for the Department of Justice said they would only move forward with his criminal prosecution if he remains in custody while awaiting trial. On Wednesday, Tennessee District Judge Waverly D. Crenshaw said the government fails to show by a preponderance of the evidence let alone clear and convincing evidence that Abrego is such a danger to others or the community that such concerns cannot be mitigated by conditions of release. At bottom, the judge wrote, the Government fails to provide any evidence that there is something in Abregos history, or his exhibited characteristics, that warrants detention. Maryland District Judge Paula Xinis, meanwhile, has blocked Immigration and Customs Enforcement from immediately detaining Abrego Garcia once he is no longer in federal custody. She also ordered ICE to give him 72 hours notice if officials decide to deport Abrego Garcia to a so-called third country, or anywhere other than his native El Salvador. The administration has done little to assure the Court that absent intervention, Abrego Garcias due process rights will be protected, Xinis wrote. Defendants defiance and foot-dragging are, to be sure, the subject of a separate sanctions motion, she noted in her ruling. Defendants returned Abrego Garcia much the same way they had removed him in secret and with no advance notice, she added. Accordingly, the Court shares Plaintiffs ongoing concern that, absent meaningful safeguards, Defendants may once again remove Abrego Garcia from the United States without having restored him to the status quo ante and without due process. open image in gallery Kilmar Abrego Garcia fled El Salvador as a teenager in 2011. He was wrongfully deported in March, violating a court order, and sent to a brutal prison in his home country before he was abruptly returned to the US to face a criminal indictment ( via REUTERS ) Abrego Garcia was 16 years old when he fled gang violence in El Salvador in 2011 and illegally entered the U.S. Now 29, he was living and working in Maryland with his wife and child, both U.S. citizens, and two children from a previous marriage, when ICE agents arrested him in March. He was jailed inside El Salvadors notorious Terrorism Confinement Center for several weeks before he was moved to a smaller jail in the country. Government lawyers admitted in court documents that he was removed from the country due to a procedural error, and several federal judges and a unanimous Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to facilitate his return. A 2019 order from an immigration judge had blocked his removal to El Salvador over humanitarian concerns, and Supreme Court justices unanimously agreed the Trump administration had illegally defied that order. Still, the government spent weeks battling court orders while officials publicly said he would never step foot in the United States, characterizing him as a serial abuser and criminal gang member. Emails and text messages provided to members of Congress appear to show that administration officials and government lawyers were sympathetic to his wrongful removal and made efforts to get him out of El Salvador before the case made headlines, causing major headaches for the White House. A two-count indictment in Tennessee accuses Abrego Garcia of participating in a years-long conspiracy to illegally move undocumented immigrants from Texas to other parts of the country. He faces one count of conspiracy to transport aliens and one count of unlawful transportation of undocumented aliens. But in their request to keep him in jail before trial, federal prosecutors also claim he is a member of transnational gang MS-13 and personally participated in violent crime, including murder. Prosecutors also claim he abused women and trafficked children, firearms and narcotic, and there is also an ongoing investigation into solicitation of child pornography. Abrego Garcia is not facing any charges on those allegations, and Judge Crenshaw argues that the government failed to link those allegations to evidence that implicates Abrego Garcia. The judge also said that to buy the governments argument that he is a member of MS-13, he would have to make so many inferences from the Governments proffered evidence in its favor that such conclusion would border on fanciful. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Information sent by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on the commercial messaging app Signal to senior officials and a journalist came from a classified email labeled SECRET, the Pentagons watchdog has been informed. The classified message was also headed as NOFORN meaning that it was not to be seen by foreign nationals according to several people familiar with the matter, who spoke to The Washington Post. The incident, described by critics as a significant security breach and which has become known as Signalgate in the media, occurred in March of this year. Hegseth is accused of sharing details of imminent U.S. military operations in Yemen with a group chat, which included cabinet members such as Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and, unwittingly, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg. open image in gallery Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is accused of sharing details of imminent U.S. military operations in Yemen with a group chat, which included cabinet members and, unwittingly, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Goldberg was added by mistake by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who has since resigned his post. The reporting that the information Hegseth is accused of sharing on the chat came from a file marked SECRET/NOFORN is at odds with the stance taken by the Trump administration in the aftermath of the incident, that no classified information was divulged. Signalgate is now being investigated by the Defense Department inspector generals office at the request of both Republican and Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. According to The Post, the strike plans were shared in a classified email to more than a dozen defense officials by General Michael Kurilla, Commander of the United States Central Command, who is in charge of U.S. military operations in the Middle East. The Independent has not separately verified The Posts reporting. The sources cited by the outlet said Kurilla had sent the message over a classified system, the Secret Internet Protocol Router Network, or SIPRNet, per government regulations. In a statement shared with The Independent, chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said: "This Signal narrative is so old and worn out, it's starting to resemble Joe Biden's mental state. open image in gallery Journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was added to the secret group chat by mistake by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz (pictured), who has since resigned ( AP ) The Department stands behind its previous statements: no classified information was shared via Signal. As we've said repeatedly, nobody was texting war plans and the success of the Department's recent operations from Operation Rough Rider to Operation Midnight Hammer--are proof that our operational security and discipline are top notch, the Pentagon spokesperson said. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly added, Information related to this successful mission is not classified, and the Houthis have since agreed to a ceasefire. This Administration has proven that it can carry out missions with precision and certainty, as evidenced by the successful operations that obliterated Irans nuclear facilities and killed terrorists. Its shameful that the Washington Post continues to publish unverified articles based on alleged emails they havent personally reviewed in an effort to undermine a successful military operation and resurrect a non-issue that no one has cared about for months. At a House Armed Services Committee hearing in June, Hegseth did not respond to questions about whether the information he shared had come from classified systems. Classifications of any information in an ongoing operation that was successful are not things that would be disclosed in a public forum, he said. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Democratic and Republican Lawmakers are asking the Trump administration to unfreeze nearly $6 billion in federal education funding, voicing concern that it could force some school districts to close. In a rare bipartisan push across local, state, and federal lines, officials have asked the administration to release billions in federal funding that support essential K-12 and adult education programs particularly for low-income and English as a second language students. So far, 10 Republican senators and 18 Democratic governors have sent letters to Education Department Secretary Linda McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Secretary Russell Vought encouraging them to release funding. Among the Republicans is Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who told ABC News she was concerned about schools in her home state that have already struggled to stay open. "Many of our school districts have already made really hard decisions about closing schools," Murkowski said. "I wish I could say that we were really solid on the state level, but we're not. And now there's questions on the federal level as well. open image in gallery Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have asked the Trump administration to release billions in funding allocated to K-12 school programs and warn it could lead to school closures. ( Getty Images ) On June 30, the Department of Education informed school districts across the country that it would not release $6.9 billion that would typically be done on July 1. The department said it was reviewing federal funding because it had been grossly misused to subsidize a radical left-wing agenda. Nearly two weeks later, on July 18, the administration said it would release $1.3 billion in those federal frozen funds allocated toward after-school programs but the other $5.5 billion remains in limbo. The Independent has asked the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget for comment. Already, school districts are looking at making cuts as they struggle to prepare for the upcoming school year. In Tallahassee, Florida, Leon County School District Superintendent Rocky Hannah said the possibility of school closures is on the table to solve the school districts financial issues which have only been made worse by federal funding cuts. Were going to look at enrollment data and school zones to see if that could potentially be of financial benefit to us, Hanna told the Tallahassee Democrat. Of course, we do not want to do that, but all options are on the table, including the merging of school sites. open image in gallery On June 30, the Department of Education informed school districts across the country that it would not release $6.9 billion that would typically be done on July 1. Some of that has been distributed, but not all. ( Getty Images ) A spokesperson for the Palm Beach County School District told WPTV that the ongoing delay in releasing these funds poses significant challenges and could necessitate the elimination of essential services for our students and educators. In their letter to McMahon and Vought, Republicans said freezing funds was contrary to President Donald Trumps desire to shut down the Department of Education in order to return education to the states. The decision to withhold this funding is contrary to President Trump's goal of returning K-12 education to the states. This funding goes directly to states and local school districts, where local leaders decide how this funding is spent, because as we know, local communities know how to best serve students and families. Withholding this funding denies states and communities the opportunity to pursue localized initiatives to support students and their families, the 10 Republicans wrote. Multiple school districts in Murkowskis home state have sued the Trump administration for withholding funds, arguing that it violates the Impoundment Control Act, among other constitutional provisions. Murkowski told ABC News she is very worried. "If your literacy skills are weak, if you're working on your English skills, I mean, these are all things that are keeping people out of the workforce at a time when we're trying to get people into it," Murkowski said. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump would have forced Bryan Kohberger to publicly explain why he killed four Idaho college students after the cold-blooded killer declined to share his motive during his sentencing hearing. After sharing a message from the White House to the families of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, who were brutally stabbed to death inside an Idaho home in 2022, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that if it were up to Trump, more would be done to deliver justice. "If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, Leavitt said, despite there being no obligation for Kohberger to share a motive for the crime. The horrifying November 2022 killings of the four University of Idaho students shocked the college town of Moscow and captivated national audiences due to the sheer violence with no clear motive. Kohberger maintained his innocence for over two years until July 2, when he abruptly took a plea deal. With the deal, he pleaded guilty to all four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, and became no longer eligible for the death penalty. "While Life Imprisonment is tough, it's certainly better than receiving the Death Penalty but, before Sentencing, I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders," Trump wrote on Truth Social after the plea deal. "There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING." open image in gallery Shortly after Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison, the White House said Trump would have forced him to tell why he committed the murders. ( AP ) The plea deal also included no obligation for Kohberger to share his motive, apologize or express remorse. While defendants can use their statement during a sentencing hearing to express remorse, or explain their actions before their sentencing, the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantees the right to remain silent during sentencing hearings, meaning they can choose not to speak at all. Judge Steven Hippler on Wednesday handed Kohberger four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. Kohberger remained quiet during the hearing, held in Boise, Idaho, speaking only to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court and divulge why he committed the horrific murders. Parents who took children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, an emotional Hippler said. The judge acknowledged the families desire to learn why Kohberger committed the murders, but said the public may never learn the reasoning. By continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency. We give him power, Hippler said. The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave. open image in gallery If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. ( via REUTERS ) During the emotional, nearly three-hour-long hearing, the parents, grandparents, siblings and two surviving roommates of the four slain students confronted Kohberger as he sat, largely uninterested, wearing an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs. Even the Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson was moved to tears by the case as he recommended Kohberger spend the rest of his life behind bars. Kohbergers defense attorneys announced last week that they would not be releasing any statements for the sentencing. After he changed his plea to guilty, both sides agreed to a proposed sentencing of four consecutive life sentences without parole, in addition to 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A reporter asked President Donald Trump about newly unveiled photos tying him to Jeffrey Epstein but the call only lasted 30 seconds before the president reportedly hung up. Unearthed archived photos capturing Jeffrey Epstein attending Trumps 1993 wedding to Marla Maples at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, published by CNN, reveal fresh insights into their relationship as the president tries to distance himself from the late financiers case. When CNN reporter Andrew Kaczynski called Trump to ask about the photos, the president gave an abrupt response: Youve got to be kidding me. He then repeatedly called the network fake news and, after 30 seconds, hung up, the outlet reported. White House Communications Director Steven Cheung told CNN in a statement: These are nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious. The fact is that the president kicked him out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, Cheung added. open image in gallery A CNN reporter says president Donald Trump hung up on him when he called to ask about new photos showing Jeffrey Esptein attending Trumps 1993 wedding. ( Getty ) CNN also uncovered footage from a 1999 Victorias Secret fashion event of Trump and Epstein chitchatting. Other photos widely available also show the two men together at the runway show, the outlet noted. Trumps 30-second phone call comes days after the president sued the Wall Street Journal for a report claiming that he allegedly gave Epstein a bawdy birthday card for his 50th birthday. The card contained sexually suggestive drawing and a reference to secrets both men shared, the publication alleged. Trump has vehemently denied the claims and sued the WSJ and its owners for $10 billion for defamation. The recent reports linking Trump to Epstein come as the White House attempts to quell the uproar over the so-called Epstein files. His MAGA supporters erupted after the Justice Department released a July 6 memo stating no further disclosures were necessary after the "exhaustive" review the department conducted. The memo led to demands for increased transparency from both MAGA world and Congressional Republicans after Attorney General Pam Bondi revealed there was a trove of documents to be reviewed in the case. Just months earlier, she said was examining a truckload of evidence the FBI had provided on the case, noting the client list of high-profile associates linked to the sex offenders trafficking scheme was sitting on her desk. open image in gallery A protester holds a sign outside the White House demanding the release of all files related to the Epstein case ( AFP via Getty Images ) Her office in February released Phase 1 of the Epstein files roughly 100 pages of documents, most of which were already publicly available. A mix of outrage and disappointment bubbled up among right-wing influencers. Still, many anticipated more information about the convicted sex offender was coming. Then, the July 6 memo deflated any lingering hope. It stated there was no evidence that a client list existed and that Epstein had died by suicide in his New York City jail cell in 2019. Amid internal Trump administration clashes and an uproar online, the president requested Bondi to release the grand jury transcripts in the cases of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, the financiers former girlfriend who was sentenced to 20 years behind bars following her 2021 conviction for her role in a scheme to abuse girls with Epstein. Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche filed motions to unseal the grand jury transcripts a move that experts say amounts to only a fraction of the Epstein files. The judges overseeing the cases have now asked for more information, including statements from Maxwell and the victims about the disclosures, before proceeding. The Trump administration will meet with Maxwell in the coming days, Blanche announced Tuesday. If Ghislane Maxwell has information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims, the FBI and the DOJ will hear what she has to say, the deputy AG said. Not long after Blanches announcement Tuesday, the House Oversight Committee approved a subpoena for Maxwell. Trump said the subpoena" sounds appropriate" during questions from reporters at the White House. Close Trump on Epstein: 'Talk about Clinton, not Trump' 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A lawyer for Ghislaine Maxwell, the accomplice of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, says his client is unsure whether shell comply with a congressional subpoena to testify about his abuse of girls and whether others were involved. We have to make a decision about whether she will do that or not, her attorney David Oscar Markus told Politico. Thats been scheduled for the week of August 11th and we havent gotten back to them on whether well do that. The lawyers comments came after he and Maxwell met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in Tallahassee, where shes serving 20 years behind bars for her role in Epsteins scheme to sexually exploit girls, to discuss the Epstein case that has rattled the Trump administration for weeks. Maxwell had initiated the meetings and was granted a form of limited immunity to talk to the Justice Department, ABC News reported. Upon arriving in Scotland for a golfing trip, the president said: A lot of people asking me about pardons ... this is no time to be talking about pardons. The president, who has never been accused of wrongdoing in the Epstein case, has tried to distance himself from his former friend. House Democrats are now trying to get the so-called birthday book that has been at the center of recent fallout. In a letter to Epsteins estate, they asked for a complete, unredacted copy of the book by August 10. The Wall Street Journal first detailed a reported Trump letter in the book. Trump has sued the outlet for $10 billion over the report. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump announced that four states, which experienced disasters over the last six months, would receive funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency despite previously threatening to eliminate the federal agency. Taking to Truth Social Tuesday, the president announced he would unlock millions in federal funding for Indiana, which experienced deadly tornadoes in March; Michigan, which experienced ice storms in March; Kentucky, which experienced flooding and tornadoes in April and May; and West Virginia, which experienced flooding and tornadoes in June. The announcement arrives after the president has signaled his desire to phase out FEMA and the administration has been scrutinized for its response to the devastating floods in Texas that killed more than 130 people. Trump has reportedly indicated he wants to return disaster response to the states by removing FEMA as the lead in response. Instead, the president hopes to make local and state officials the primary leaders while using FEMA as financial support. In January, Trump claimed FEMA had not been productive for years and pushed responsibility onto the states for handling disaster response. open image in gallery President Donald Trump said he would unlock federal funding to four states that experienced deadly storms over the last six months. ( Getty Images ) White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson previously said in a statement that federal assistance was always intended to supplement state actions, not replace those actions. FEMAs outsized role created a bloated bureaucracy that disincentivized state investment in their own resilience, Jackson said. However, since then, the president has softened his stance, reportedly backing away from language that indicated he was going to shut down the decades-old agency. While the funding is slightly delayed, state leaders expressed gratitude for it. Im glad to have received word from President Trump committing federal funds to help Northern Michigan communities impacted by the historic ice storm damage earlier this year, Governor Gretchen Whitmer said on X. We have more details to gather, but Im grateful for this response to my requests of the White House. Northern Michigan experienced deadly ice storms in March that left at least six people dead. Homes and infrastructure also experienced damage due to the heavy ice. open image in gallery Severe flooding hit parts of Kentucky in April and led to the deaths of at least 31 people. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Trump, who said it was his honor to approve federal funds for the state, and would give $50 million to assist in recovery. Indiana Governor Mike Braun thanked Trump for his approval of $15.1 million in funding, which will go toward assisting recovery after a string of tornadoes hit the state in March. In announcing the states funding, Trump also reminded people that he won BIG in the state in the 2016, 2020 and 2024 presidential elections. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear wrote on X that he was grateful to the president and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem for providing a total of $56 million in disaster response. At least seven people died in April after the state experienced devastating flooding. At least 31 people died in May after deadly tornadoes swept across the state as well. This support is essential to helping these communities rebuild, and I am grateful to the president and @SecNoem. I also told @POTUS that the @FEMA team members on the ground are doing great work supporting Kentuckians. We will provide more details soon, Beshear wrote. Patrick Morrisey, the governor of West Virginia, praised Trump and the administration for providing us with another tool to help these communities make a full recovery. Trump said he would provide $11.7 million in federal funding to support recovery after heavy rains brought flooding in June. At least nine people died as a result of the floods. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice More and more wealthy people may turn to President Donald Trumps proposed $5 million Gold Card visa program as birthright citizenship is under threat, a new report claims. Trump issued an executive order earlier this year seeking to end birthright citizenship, which is safeguarded by the U.S. Constitution, for parents who are in the U.S. illegally. A U.S. District Judge has since blocked the order, but the Supreme Court could still hear another case on the issue. Ali Jahangiri, head of the EB5 Lending Alliance, told Newsweek the interest in Gold Cards and EB-5 visas which can grant permanent residence to certain foreign investors could skyrocket if birthright citizenship is restricted or removed. "Removing or restricting birthright citizenship would close a loophole used by many foreign nationals and shift demand toward investment-based and merit-based immigration pathways like EB-5 and Gold Cards, which provide more secure, legal, and long-term immigration solutions for wealthy families looking to secure a future for their children in the U.S, Jahangiri said. President Donald Trump holds a $5 million Gold Card. More wealthy families could opt for the Gold Card option as birthright citizenship is threatened ( AFP/Getty ) The Gold Card costs $5 million, while the EB-5 program grants green cards to foreign nationals who invest a minimum of $800,000 in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 jobs. It also offers a direct path to permanent residency for the investor, their spouse and any children under 21. The Gold Card program could grant families who would have considered birth tourism another path to legal residency and citizenship, Jahangiri said. Birth tourism refers to the act of traveling to a country to give birth in order to secure U.S. citizenship for the child. The administration launched the Gold Card website in June. The site allows users to enter their contact information so they can be notified the moment access opens. Trump first proposed the idea in February, then touted it again in April as economists warned about the economic impacts of his sweeping tariffs. About 700,000 people were on the waiting list as of last month, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told the Financial Times. In March, Lutnick told the All In podcast the administration had sold 1,000 Gold Cards, adding that Trump had estimated that they could sell one million cards in total. The Independent has contacted the White House and Commerce Department for comment on the status of the Gold Card program. Lutnick said the revenue from the cards will help pay down the $36 trillion national debt. Some experts told The Washington Post earlier this month that the program is unlikely to take off, noting legal challenges are likely and Congressional approval could be a barrier. In response, Commerce Department spokesperson Kristen Eichamer told the Post that Lutnick is determined to follow through on President Trumps vision to create a Gold Card visa program that will raise unprecedented revenues for the United States. "There does not appear to be broad or coordinated support within Congress for the program, even among Republicans, due to concerns relating to the viability of the program and its optics," Morgan Bailey, a former senior official at the Department of Homeland Security, told Newsweek. The Gold Card is also already appearing on the application for Global Entry, a program operated by Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-approved U.S. citizens, green card holders and travelers from some countries to enter a fast lane at the airport. Those who apply for Global Entry using a foreign passport are currently given an option to say that they have submitted an application for a Trump Card Visa, Wired reported in May. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump received a gift from an unexpected source on Monday: Hunter Biden. No, it wasnt a laptop this time. Instead, it came in the form of two podcast interviews in which a fiery Biden went on expletive-laden tirades against everyone from George Clooney to the president of El Salvador while swinging at his fathers political enemies. The former presidents son, apparently unsatisfied with damaging his fathers bid for re-election, may now be doing the same to his post-presidential reputation. The 55-year-old Biden calmly explained the process for cooking crack cocaine before devolving into angry rants against people who questioned his familys judgment. Biden appeared for an interview with former All Gas No Brakes host Andrew Callaghan, sitting down for three hours and riffing on a wide range of topics, but centering a good amount of focus on the downfall of the Biden campaign in 2024. He verbally attacked Democrats for abandoning his father. He argued the disunity among voters over Joe Bidens withdrawal was the leading factor that caused millions to stay home, not the general disgust voters showed towards a party that seemingly covered up Bidens decline, or the political consequences of the U.S.-supported carnage in Gaza. open image in gallery Hunter Biden attacked George Clooney, the Pod Save America co-hosts, and even Nancy Pelosi in a fiery interview with Andrew Callaghan ( YouTube - ) Regarding Bidens performance at a June debate with Trump, where he appeared confused and unable to finish sentences at times, his son chalked up to the following revelation: the presidents doctors had him on Ambien. He's 81 years old. He's tired as s**t. They give him Ambien to be able to sleep. He gets up on stage and he looks like he's a deer in the headlights. And it feeds into f*****g story that anybody wants to tell. After personally attacking Pod Save America co-hosts and George Clooney, it became clear: this was an airing of grievances by Hunter. Kamala Harris, his fathers former running mate, and the progressive wing that sacrificed some of their credibility with their base, were the only Democrats spared his wrath. The centrist wing of the party he labeled weak-kneed cowards and backstabbers. It begs the question, then: why is Hunter Biden making multiple podcast appearances and stirring up negative headlines for Democrats at a time when President Donald Trump and his administration are under fire from MAGA over the release of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein? Mondays press tour by the former first son was ill-timed, though it didnt fully break through the multi-day news cycle surrounding Epstein. On Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported the contents of a birthday card Ghislaine Maxwell allegedly compiled for Epstein in 2003. Trump has strongly denied that he ever wrote anything for the card and has sued the outlet and Rupert Murdoch over the report. The Epstein coverage has continued this week, but if theres anyone with the power to provide a distraction, its Hunter Biden furiously threatening to invade El Salvador while discussing his former crack habits. His mere presence in the news cycle is also a reminder of his fathers pardon. Biden carried on through much of 2024 vowing not to let his son escape justice on tax and gun charges, even as there were no plans by the DoJ to charge him for his documented drug abuse. That promise fell apart, and Hunter is now free and unburdened to hamstring those he perceives as having betrayed his family at the worst possible time. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump boasted Tuesday that he had made a massive deal with Japan that would generate thousands of jobs and billions of dollars for the U.S. The president announced the trade framework perhaps the largest Deal ever made in a Truth Social post Tuesday, revealing that a 15 percent tax on goods imported from Japan had been agreed. In the post Trump said Japan would invest at my direction $550 billion into the U.S. and would open its economy to American-made vehicles as well as rice and other things. But further details remained scant. The 15 percent tax on imported Japanese goods is a significant drop from the 25 percent rate that Trump, in a recent letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said would be levied starting on August 1. open image in gallery President Donald Trump shakes hands with Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The president announced a massive trade deal with the nation on Tuesday ( REUTERS ) This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it, the president posted on Truth Social, adding that the United States will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Thank you for your attention to this matter! Early Wednesday in Tokyo, Japanese Prime Minister Shigera Ishiba confirmed the new trade agreement, saying it would benefit both sides and help them work together. The government was determined to protect national interests, Ishiba told reporters, per the Wall Street Journal. Trumps announcement appeared to excite investors, with the benchmark Nikkei the Tokyo stock market climbing 2.6 percent to its highest in a year, with shares of automakers also surging. open image in gallery Early Wednesday in Tokyo, Japanese Prime Minister Shigera Ishiba confirmed the new trade agreement, saying it would benefit both sides and help them work together. The government was determined to protect national interests, Ishiba told reporters ( AP ) Toyota grew by more than 11 percent, with Honda and Nissan both up more than 8 percent. But American automakers were less buoyed with the deal, with concerns raised over low import levies from Japan, compared to tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico remaining at 25 percent. Matt Blunt, head of the American Automotive Policy Council, said, "Any deal that charges a lower tariff for Japanese imports with virtually no U.S. content than the tariff imposed on North American-built vehicles with high U.S. content is a bad deal for U.S. industry and U.S. auto workers. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trumps intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard took over the White House briefing room Wednesday to continue pressing her narrative about a coup supposedly launched by Barack Obama. The latest conspiracy has been pressed by both Gabbard and President Donald Trump since the weekend as the administration returns to the Russiagate investigation as an apparent diversion while Trump is facing uproar from his base over his administrations efforts to tamp down on speculation surrounding the death and crimes of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted pedophile. In early July, the Department of Justice and FBI declared in a joint statement that no client list detailing Epsteins co-conspirators could be found within the DOJs files; the statement also reiterated the agencies conclusion that Epstein died by suicide in 2019. On Wednesday, the presidents weeks-long effort to find a distraction to turn his bases focus from that statement resulted in the director of the U.S. intelligence community declaring behind the White House podium that former President Obama ordered intelligence assessments to be doctored to include the assertion that Russia was working directly to elect Trump. Gabbard called the investigation into Trumps 2016 campaign a years-long coup orchestrated by the former president, something that Obama dismissively rejected in a rare statement this week condemning the Trump administrations latest claims. open image in gallery Director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard accused Barack Obama of launching a 'coup' over intelligence committee assessments of Russian interference in U.S. elections ( AFP/Getty ) There is irrefutable evidence that detailed how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false, Gabbard told reporters. They manufactured findings from shoddy sources, they suppressed evidence and credible intelligence that disproved their false claims. They disobeyed traditional trade craft intelligence community standards, and withheld the truth from the American people, she said. In doing so, they conspired to subvert the will of the American people, she continued, later asserting that the supposedly serious changes to ODNI assessments (which in reality do not show a difference in conclusion) amounted to a years long coup against the incoming president United States, Donald Trump. Gabbards report, released last week, closely followed an article from the Wall Street Journal purporting to contain a note from Trump to Epstein as part of the latters 50th birthday celebration in 2003. The note, framed as an imagined dialogue between the two men, alludes to a shared secret between the two. The U.S. president strongly denied the notes authenticity and swiftly filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the WSJ, its parent company News Corp and founder Rupert Murdoch, among others. With the Jeffrey Epstein saga consuming more and more of the media atmosphere every day, the White House turned late last week to Barack Obama and the FBI investigation into his first campaign for the presidency as Trumps aides seek to move the news cycle along. The memo authored by Gabbard last week, which she summarized on Tuesday, accuses the Obama administration of lying to the American public about Russias supposed interest in seeing Trump elected. In reality, straight-news coverage of the 2016 election largely centered around the reality, verified by both the FBIs special counsel investigation headed up by Robert Mueller and a bipartisan probe conducted by the Senate Intelligence Committee. Russian-backed hackers struck the servers of the Democratic National Committee in 2016, then published those materials online in an effort to damage the candidacy of Hillary Clinton. Russian influence campaigns on social media spanned a wide range of efforts including backing Trump, opposing Clinton, and disseminating misinformation. Gabbards memo also mischaracterized the general assessment of the American intelligence community in 2016: that Russian intelligence agents had not attemped to directly influence vote totals through the hacking of election infrastructure, a finding which her office seemed to conflate with an absence of any Russian influence efforts altogether. open image in gallery Former President Barack Obama has released a rare statement on 'Russia-gate' after President Donald Trump accused him of committing 'treason.' ( Scott Olson/Getty Images ) On Wednesday, the director of national intelligence backed away from that conflation entirely. She and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted that it was the Trump administrations view that Russian actors had interfered in the 2016 election through the use of social media botnets and other means to sow distrust and chaos, but without any clear goal or motive. There was no explanation to what end Russia was supposedly sowing distrust and chaos, by hacking the servers of one major political party and not the other, if not with the aim of benefiting the party not forced to explain damaging internal emails which fueled accusations from Clintons critics in the party that the DNC establishment favored her. Gabbard also dodged questions about what steps the Trump administration would take from here, or why the president and his allies had waited until statutes of limitations had likely expired on any criminal charges that could rise from the matter (were Trumps allegations of misconduct actually true). She referred questions about possible criminal charges to the Department of Justice and Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose own future in the administration is already on possibly shaky ground as the criticism of her declaration about the Epstein case continues to fester. Neither she nor Leavitt could explain why the Senate Intelligence Committee (including now-Secretary of State Marco Rubio) did not find that the Obama administration had improperly changed any ODNI assessments in its report released in 2020. Justice Department officials have been notably quiet amid the clamoring from the White House for retribution against Obama and top members of his administration, including Clinton, his director of national intelligence James Clapper, and FBI director James Comey. Bondi has announced no plans to launch a new investigation into the matter, and Gabbard herself can only refer evidence to the DOJ for review. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is leaving town early this week to dodge a vote on a bipartisan resolution that would force the administration to release the Epstein files, and Trump is increasingly swinging at longer and longer lists of his perceived foes as the pressure from his base ramps up and accusations of a cover-up grow louder. In a now-deleted Truth Social post, Trump even bashed his supporters who support calls to investigate Epsteins accomplices weak and claimed he didnt need their support. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Greek authorities ordered the evacuation of several villages after a major forest fire broke out near the city of Corinth on Tuesday amid soaring summer temperatures. More than 180 firefighters, supported by a fleet of 15 aircraft and 12 helicopters, were battling the fast-moving blaze in a pine forest in mountainous terrain west of Athens, officials said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or deaths as fire crews worked through the night, fanned by gusty winds and a stubborn heatwave that has pushed temperatures to around 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) across much of Greece. Emergency alerts were sent to residents in affected villages, asking them to leave their homes as flames approached. Agia Kyriaki, Etos Steko, and Imeros Pefkos among the communities evacuated. Earlier on Tuesday, a firefighting helicopter crashed into the sea while responding to a separate wildfire near Athens. The three crew members were rescued and transferred to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to authorities. Greece is prone to wildfires during the summer, when hot, dry weather, strong winds, and a changing climate regularly combine to create high fire risks. Firefighters try to extinguish a major forest fire in the village of Karteri, near Corinth, west of Athens, Greece, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Vasilis Psomas) ( AP ) The fire department has responded to dozens of wildfires already this season, with officials repeatedly warning that extreme weather and longer droughts are fueling the frequency and intensity of such events. In recent years, deadly blazes have devastated parts of the country. In 2018, a massive fire swept through the seaside town of Mati, east of Athens, trapping people in homes and on roads as they tried to flee. More than 100 died, including some who drowned while trying to swim away. On the island of Crete and other areas, thousands of residents and tourists were evacuated from fires earlier this month. Additional communities on the island, including beachfront villages, were also evacuated as the fire advanced, while health officials placed local hospitals on high alert due to smoke inhalation cases among elderly residents. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A popular beach in the Spanish island of Majorca has been evacuated after an animal, initially thought to be a shark, ravaged a tourists leg. An Italian woman, 85, rushed out of the water with a bloody gash on her left calf at Palma beach around 11.30am local time on Tuesday, local media reported. Two ambulances swiftly arrived and treated the woman at the scene, before she was rushed to a private clinic with skin loss and a severe wound. The incident took place at the Balneario 6 section of the beach. open image in gallery Analysis of the bite, which had no teeth marks, suggested a bluefish was responsible (stock image) ( Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Police said her muscle tissue was not harmed but her skin had been ripped off. Lifeguards evacuated the beach and conducted a deep search to find the responsible animal using boats. Local environmental councillors supported the search, local media said. The animal was not found so lifeguards restored the green flag about an hour later. Initial reports suggested a shark was responsible but analysis of the bite, which had no teeth marks, suggested it was a bluefish instead. Our hypothesis is that the attack may have been caused by a bluefish, marine biodiversity expert Aniol Esteban told local press based off photos. The bluefish is a large and predatory fish with a powerful jaw. It is often found in the Mediterranean during hotter months. open image in gallery If not a bluefish, a triggerfish may have been responsible (stock image) ( Getty Images/iStockphoto ) The species is not known to regularly attack humans but it can be aggressive when it is feeding or feels threatened. Environmental changes and increasing water temperatures are also believed to push some marine species closer to the shore. Experts have also suggested a triggerfish could have been responsible. Triggerfish have an aggressive bite and are increasingly prevalent in Balearic shores. It comes after a man died after a shark attack off the Mediterranean coast of Israel in April. The remains, discovered after a two-day search, were identified as those of the victim, whom Israeli media named as Barak Tzach, a man in his 40s and a father of four. open image in gallery The Italian woman was rushed to a clinic after the attack (stock image) ( Getty Images/iStockphoto ) The number of shark bites recorded around the world last year is markedly down from 2023, according to The Florida Museum of Natural Historys International Shark Attack File database. In 2024, there were only 47 unprovoked attacks, down by 22 from the previous year and well below the 10-year average of 67. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A surfer was badly injured after he was attacked by a shark off the Canary Islands. The man was using a hydrofoil board about two miles west of Fuerteventura on Sunday when the incident occurred in open waters. The Los Molinos area is known for occasional shark sightings. After attacking his board, the shark sunk his teeth into the surfers leg, leaving behind two bloody wounds above the knee, local media reported. He managed to scramble back to the shore for safety and was later treated by emergency services. Spanish TV channel Antena 3 described the wounds as deep. While several shark species, including hammerheads and angel sharks, are known to swim in the area, they do not typically attack humans. Beachgoers have been warned to proceed with caution (stock image) ( AP ) Authorities have warned beachgoers to proceed with caution when venturing far from the shore, local media said. The shark attack is the latest in a series of similar incidents as holidaymakers head to the seaside. Earlier this week, a savage fish attacked an 85-year-old Italian woman while swimming in Majorcas Palma beach. And in April, a man died after a shark attack off the Mediterranean coast of Israel. The remains, discovered after a two-day search, were identified as those of the victim, whom Israeli media named as Barak Tzach, a man in his 40s and a father of four. Environmental changes and increasing water temperatures are believed to push some marine species closer to the shore. In a close encounter with a shark, beachgoers are advised to maintain eye contact and slowly move away, according to Florida Museums International Shark Attack File. If the shark tries to bite you: Hit the shark in the eyes and gills - sensitive areas that can be hurt regardless of personal strength; Hit the shark on the snout and push away - water-resistance weakens your punch, the file added. However, the number of shark bites recorded around the world last year is markedly down from 2023, according to the shark attack database. In 2024, there were only 47 unprovoked attacks, down by 22 from the previous year and well below the 10-year average of 67. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice At least 10 people have been killed and many other injured while battling wildfire in Turkey, the government in the country has said. Those who lost their lives were firefighters and rescue workers battling the fires in northwestern Turkey. The five forestry workers and five members of the AKUT rescue organization died while trying to put out the wildfire raging through a forested area of Eskisehir province, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said. At least 14 other rescuers and forestry workers were hospitalized. The deaths bring the number of fatalities in wildfires that have flared amid strong winds, high temperatures and dry conditions so far in the country this year to 13. The minister said the wind suddenly changed direction, causing the flames to shift rapidly and surround the forest workers. President Erdogan paid tribute to the victims ( AP ) It was not immediately clear what caused the fire. Yumakli said firefighters were currently battling seven wildfires in Turkey, including the one in Eskisehir, adding that extreme heat and volatile wind conditions also were expected in Turkey on Thursday. Starting tomorrow, we are facing extraordinary temperatures and extreme wind shifts. Once again, I call on all 86 million citizens to be vigilant and exercise extra caution," he said. In a message of condolence to the families, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the victims had fought to protect our forests at cost of their lives. Two prosecutors were assigned to investigate the incident, the country's justice minister said. Turkey has been battling wildfires since June 26. An elderly man and two forestry workers were killed in a wildfire that raged near the town of Odemis, in Izmir province, earlier this month. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hundreds of people gathered in Ukraines capital Kyiv to lodge their protest with the Volodymyr Zelenskys administration for passing a controversial bill tightening restrictions on its anti-corruption agencies, presenting the war-hit nation with its biggest domestic turmoil since the Russian invasion in February 2022. Ukraines parliament on Tuesday passed amendments to allow the countrys general prosecutor, appointed by the president, strict control over two anti-corruption bodies the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (Sapo). President Zelensky, whose party holds a majority in parliament, approved the amendments late on Tuesday. The changes would allow the general prosecutor to transfer cases from the agencies and reassign prosecutors. In his nightly televised address, Zelensky said the corruption fighting agencies would continue to function "but without any Russian influence". "It all must be cleansed," he said. In the morning, he met officials including the heads of Nabu and Sapo and said he would unveil a new plan to fight corruption within two weeks. "We hear society," he wrote on Telegram. "We all have a common enemy, the Russian occupiers, and the protection of the Ukrainian state requires sufficient strength of the law enforcement and anti-corruption systems, and therefore a real sense of justice." The move has alarmed the country as this could result in granting more power to Ukraine's chief prosecutor Ruslan Kravchenko, also seen as a Zelensky loyalist, to reassign corruption probes to investigators of their preference. Shortly after the bill was cleared in parliament, hundreds of people gathered in Kyiv carried placards to protest. Protests also broke out in other cities like Dnipro, Lviv and Odesa. We chose Europe, not autocracy, read one placard by a demonstrator. Another read: My father did not die for this. open image in gallery Protesters hold placards during a demonstration calling for the Ukrainian president to veto a law passed by parliament that reduces the powers of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) in downtown Kyiv ( AFP via Getty Images ) The vote was denounced on social media as a betrayal of Ukraines decade-long geopolitical ambition. The protests echoed the long-standing sentiment of fighting corruption in Ukraine as critical to erasing a legacy of Russian rule. Vladyslava Kirstyuk, 18, said memories of her childhood in occupied eastern Ukraine, after Russia's covert invasion in 2014, left a strong impression. "I know what it means for one person to have all the power, when nothing is transparent and everything is working against you," she said. "I don't want it to be the same for us here." open image in gallery This photograph shows a projection reading Veto the law on a building facade during a demonstration calling for the Ukrainian president to veto a law passed by parliament that reduces the powers of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) in downtown Kyiv ( AFP via Getty Images ) Mr Zelensky also said he had spoken to Nabu chief Semen Kryvonos and other top prosecutors. Mr Kryvonos had urged the Ukrainian president to not sign the fast-tracked bill, which he called an attempt to "destroy" Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure. The two agencies Nabu and Sapo were set up in the country after the 2014 Maidan revolution toppled a pro-Russian president and set Kyiv on a Western course. They are credited for their work to tackle corruption and graft in Ukraine during the war, levelling charges against lawmakers, ministers and a former deputy head of Zelensky's administration. Last week, we ran an editorial warning of an anti-democratic backslide in Ukraine. Today, its happening in plain sight. This isnt what our people have been fighting and dying for, and its devastatingly unfair to them, said Olga Rudenko, the chief editor of Ukrainian publication The Kyiv Independent. Ukraine is also facing backlash from anti-graft campaigners who have been alarmed since the government charged a top anti-corruption activist this month with fraud and evading military service. The move has been dubbed as political retribution by authorities for exposing corrupt officials. Rooting out endemic corruption and graft is critical for Ukraine to join the European Union and also a key condition to receive western aid at a time the country is battered by war. The European Union enlargement commissioner Marta Kos said she was "seriously concerned" by Tuesday's vote. "The dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABU's independence is a serious step back," she said, adding that rule of law was at "the very centre" of EU accession talks. The issue risks antagonising Kyiv's most loyal allies at a particularly risky time, when it is trying to smooth over the relationship with Washington, where President Donald Trump has frequently criticised Zelensky. "Ukraines anti-corruption institutions are vital to its reform path. Restricting them would be a significant setback," Dutch foreign minister Caspar Veldkamp said in a post on X. Benjamin Haddad, France's European Affairs minister, said it was not too late to reverse the decision. Yaroslav Zheleznyak, from Ukraine's opposition Holos party, said that he and several other lawmakers would propose a bill "to overturn this big shame that was adopted and signed", and also challenge the law in the Constitutional Court. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thousands of people, including veterans, took to the streets of Kyiv on Tuesday evening to protest against Volodymyr Zelenskys anti-corruption measures. The demonstrations, which have reportedly spread to Lviv and Dnipro, are the first public protests against the Ukrainian president since the Russian invasion in February 2022. Some of those outside Mr Zelenskys presidential office claimed Ukraine was turning into Russia, with placards reading Welcome to Russia, according to reports. We chose Europe, not autocracy, read one placard held by a demonstrator. Another read: My father did not die for this. So why are people protesting, and what are the anti-corruption measures? The Independent takes a closer look below. open image in gallery The demonstrations, which have reportedly spread to Lviv and Dnipro, are the first public protests against the Ukrainian president since the Russian invasion in February 2022 ( AFP/Getty ) Follow the latest updates on the Ukraine war here What are the anti-corruption measures? Kyiv has toughened restrictions on two anti-corruption agencies at the centre of the governments reform drive, rolling back their autonomy in favour of tighter executive control. Stamping out endemic graft a form of political corruption is a requirement for Kyiv to join the European Union as well as to secure billions in Western aid. Amendments passed on Tuesday grant the general prosecutor, appointed by the president, strict control over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) of Ukraine and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office. open image in gallery Kyiv has toughened restrictions on two anti-corruption agencies at the centre of the governments reform drive ( AFP/Getty ) The vote came a day after Kyivs domestic security agency arrested two Nabu officials on suspicion of ties to Russia and conducted sweeping searches into agency employees on other grounds. Mr Zelensky, whose party holds a majority in parliament, approved the amendments late on Tuesday. Anti-corruption bodies would continue to function but without any Russian influence, the president said. Why are people protesting? Demonstrator Vladyslava Kirstyuk, 18, said memories of her childhood in occupied eastern Ukraine, after Russias covert invasion in 2014, left a strong impression. I know what it means for one person to have all the power, when nothing is transparent and everything is working against you, she said. I dont want it to be the same for us here. Oleksiy Goncharenko, an opposition MP who voted against the measure, said the bill was about the end of the independence of anti-corruption bodies inside Ukraine, blaming the personal choice of President Zelensky. open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky has promised to tackle corruption ( AP ) What has been the reaction? The vote drew sharp criticism from the heads of both agencies and a top EU official, and spurred the largest public protests since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Writing on X, EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos said she was seriously concerned by Tuesdays vote. The dismantling of key safeguards protecting Nabus independence is a serious step back, she said, adding that the rule of law was at the very centre of EU accession talks. Benjamin Haddad, Frances European affairs minister, said it was not too late for Ukraine to reverse its decision to roll back the autonomy of two anti-corruption agencies at the centre of the countrys reform drive. A Western diplomat familiar with Ukraines reform effort described the developments as the most dangerous moment yet for the independence of anti-corruption authorities. The Ukrainian side is testing the limits more and more, the diplomat said, referring to the patience of Kyivs allies. After the protests, Mr Zelensky met anti-corruption and security officials on Wednesday and promised the creation of a joint plan to fight corruption within two weeks. We all hear what society is saying. We see what people expect from state institutions and ensured justice and the effective functioning of each institution, he said. I spoke to my 75-year-old mother in Gaza just days ago. Her voice trembled not just from fear this time, but from the sheer weight of hunger. She told me that my brother and nephew had returned to Jabalia, where our family home once stood before it was reduced to rubble by Israeli bombs. They had remembered that there were three cans of beans somewhere beneath the wreckage left behind in the chaos of displacement. So they made a decision: to go back. From nine in the morning until four in the afternoon, under the scorching July sun, they dug. With bare hands. In an area still designated by the Israeli military as a combat zone. They knew they could be shot. They knew the air could be torn apart at any moment by a drone strike. But they had no choice. They were starving. And this is what it has come to: Palestinians risking death to dig through the ruins of their own homes, not to bury the dead, but to unearth a few cans of beans. My sister, meanwhile, spent hours searching for something anything to feed her four children, who are aged from 10 and 16. She came back empty-handed, except for some grass. Thats what she gave them that day. There was nothing else. What is happening in Gaza is not famine. This is not some cruel twist of nature. It is not the result of drought or the climate crisis, or a supply chain breakdown. This is manmade starvation. Deliberate. Calculated. Imposed. The head of Gazas largest hospital said 21 children have died due to malnutrition and starvation in the Palestinian territory in the past three days. Twenty-one human beings reduced to statistics. Humanitarian agencies warn that a quarter of a million people in Gaza are now at starvationrisk thresholds, and without immediate assistance, the situation is expected to worsen sharply. We are watching a slow, deliberate process of extermination, carried out not only with bombs but with hunger, with deprivation, with the systematic destruction of everything that makes survival possible. The UN has warned that Gaza is on the brink of full-scale famine. But famine is not just looming it is here. I write this from London, where I have lived for 22 years. I work in finance and have a comfortable home in Islington, where I am sitting at a table. I walk to the kitchen and open a fridge that hums with abundance. I boil water for tea. I walk past shops and markets with shelves overflowing. And I feel sick. Sick with guilt. Sick with helplessness. I eat and choke on the shame of it. I sleep and wake feeling like Ive abandoned my own blood. My brother is digging through the rubble of our bombed home for canned food, while I feel the softness of my mattress beneath me. My sister feeds her children grass, while my 10-month-old son in London spits out peas because hes decided he doesnt like them. open image in gallery Ahmed (centre) with his siblings Nour, Mahmoud, Nidaa and Raed, whose daughter Juri was killed by an Israeli strike a couple of months ago at the age of six ( Supplied ) There is no moral universe in which what is happening in Gaza can be justified. On Monday, David Lammy and his counterparts from 24 other nations, including France, Canada and Australia, urged Israel to lift restrictions on the flow of aid into Gaza. In a joint statement shared on Monday afternoon, the politicians said: The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths. The Israeli governments aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability, and deprives Gazans of human dignity. The nations condemned the current aid delivery model, backed by the Israeli and American governments, which has reportedly resulted in IDF troops firing on Palestinian civilians in search of food on multiple occasions. Asked for his personal reaction to the scenes in Gaza, the foreign secretary told BBC Breakfast: I feel the same as the British public: appalled, sickened. I described what I saw yesterday in parliament as grotesque. And yet, my government the British government continues to sell weapons to Israel. It provides diplomatic cover at the UN. It repeats the tired lines about Israels right to defend itself while my family and thousands like them are being starved to death. This isnt passive complicity. To me, this is active participation. open image in gallery Ahmed says he cannot describe the torment of knowing his loved ones are suffering in Gaza ( Supplied ) Starvation is being used as a weapon of war and Britain is helping to fund the siege. Our politicians speak of peace and stability while backing a regime that bombs bakeries, shoots at aid convoys, and turns food into a battlefield. They speak of balance while Gaza wastes away. What kind of balance exists when one side controls the skies, the borders, the water, the electricity, the food, the very air? Only days ago, there were reports of Israeli forces opening fire on a crowd of starving Palestinians waiting for flour. At least 93 people were killed. Shot while trying to eat. Some died with empty sacks still clutched in their hands. What crime had they committed? Hunger? Every day in Gaza, survival is a form of resistance. Every bite is a battle. Every day my family remains alive is an act of defiance against a world that has accepted their death as inevitable. After the 25-truck convoy carrying vital food assistance came under fire from Israeli tanks, snipers and other gunfire shortly after passing the final checkpoint, the World Food Programme said: Gazas hunger crisis has reached new levels of desperation. People are dying from lack of humanitarian assistance. Malnutrition is surging, with 90,000 women and children in urgent need of treatment. Nearly one person in three is not eating for days. I cannot describe the torment of knowing my loved ones my mother, my father, my sisters, brother, nieces and nephews are starving while the world watches and does nothing. Knowing that the country you now live in, pay taxes to, and try to call home is directly involved in their suffering. The guilt doesnt go away. It shouldnt. open image in gallery Every day in Gaza, survival is a form of resistance: starving Palestinians wait for a meal provided by a charity kitchen ( AFP/Getty ) Because we are enabling what is happening. With silence. With money. With political cowardice. The children of Gaza are not starving because the world cant help. They are starving because the world has chosen not to. Because their lives have been deemed expendable. Because Palestinians are not seen as fully human. And because many in the West still believe that Israeli power must be protected at all costs, no matter how many innocents it crushes. I write because I have no other weapon. I write because my voice is the only thing left to send across the border. I write because if I dont, then the silence wins. But I also write to ask: what will you do? One day, this will end. One day, the dust will settle. The graves will be counted. And Gaza will ask: Where were you? What did you do while we starved? And I will ask too. Because my family is starving. My people are starving. And the world is watching. And if you look away, you are part of it too. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Babies that were just whispers of skin and bone died as their mothers were too starved to produce milk to feed them. Now even the medics trying to treat the malnourished at Shifa Hospital in north Gaza are so hungry and sick themselves that some have fainted and been treated with intravenous fluids. Palestinian health officials say at least 111 people have died of hunger during the conflict, including 80 children, most of them in recent weeks and 10 in the last 24 hours alone. Even people trying to get food from aid sites are putting their lives at risk. The UN human rights office said on Tuesday that more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor. As more than 100 human rights groups and charities demand more aid for Gaza in a letter published on Wednesday, a doctor has revealed the scale of the horror as the besieged enclaves food crisis continues to deepen. open image in gallery Children push to receive a hot meal at a charity kitchen in the Mawasi area of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip ( AFP/Getty ) Shifa Hospitals director, Mohammed Abu Salmiya, told The Independent that at least three children have died from malnutrition on his own wards alone. The children arrived in a critical condition. They were just skin and bones. All vital organs were failing. They were on their last gasp, he said in desperation. There is no baby formula. There is no food. Even the milk in the mothers breasts has dried up. He said his own staff are also hungry, working day and night shifts with no food, and often unable to help. Some medical staff were admitted to the hospital to receive intravenous fluids, he added. open image in gallery Charities have warned the crisis is only getting worse ( AFP/Getty ) The head of the UNs Palestinian refugee agency said on Tuesday that its staff, as well as doctors and humanitarian workers, were fainting on duty in Gaza due to hunger and exhaustion. No one is spared: caretakers in Gaza are also in need of care. Doctors, nurses, journalists and humanitarians are hungry, UNRWA commissioner general Philippe Lazzarini said. Khaled Mohammed Al-Nabrisi is a doctor in Deir al-Balah, an area that is now under evacuation orders. Deir al-Balah has been suffering before, and now it is suffering even more due to the evacuation, he said. The hospitals 200 beds now exceed 500. The intensive care units have been expanded from 10 beds to 17, with an occupancy rate of 200 percent. Hundreds of cases of malnutrition... are now arriving at the emergency room. Our staff has become part of the suffering. Many children are now suffering from meningitis, a disease caused by overcrowding and crowding in a small area. They believed that Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital was safe from evacuation. open image in gallery Mona al-Raqab lifts the shirt of her 5-year-old son, Osama al-Raqab, revealing signs of malnutrition and worsening cystic fibrosis ( AP ) Israeli forces have, according to Palestinian health officials, killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in its unprecedented bombardment of Gaza in response to attacks on Israel by the Hamas militants that killed 1,200 people and captured at least 250 hostages in October 2023. The latest Israeli strikes killed at least 21 people late on Tuesday and early Wednesday. But for the first time since the war began, Palestinian officials say people are now dying of hunger by the dozens. A top UN official has blamed Israel for subjecting Gaza to a forced starvation with its blockade on aid. On Tuesday, the United Nations secretary general, Antonio Guterres, called the situation for the 2.3 million residents of the Palestinian enclave a horror show as the humanitarian system has collapsed. Rights groups like Amnesty International have said there is evidence pointing to Israels continued use of starvation to inflict genocide against Palestinians. open image in gallery Palestinians hold onto an aid truck returning to Gaza City ( AP ) The joint statement from 115 organisations, including Amnesty, said: Doctors report record rates of acute malnutrition, especially among children and older people. Illnesses like acute watery diarrhoea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and adults are collapsing on the streets from hunger and dehydration. The UN-led humanitarian system has not failed, it has been prevented from functioning. With access denied, we are blocked from reaching those in need, including our own exhausted and starved teams. At the same time, there have been multiple massacres at food distribution points. The World Food Programme said crowds of Palestinians desperate to get aid from a rare WFP convoy that entered Gaza on Sunday came under fire from Israeli tanks, snipers and other gunfire. Eyewitnesses told The Independent they were shelled and shot while trying to get bags of flour. In total, the UN has confirmed that more than 870 Palestinians have been killed while trying to seek aid at distribution points. open image in gallery Smoke and flames rise from a residential building hit by an Israeli strike, in Gaza City ( Reuters ) The Independent reached out to the Israeli military for comment but has yet to receive a reply. Israel has repeatedly and vehemently denied committing any crimes in Gaza, including weaponising hunger or targeting civilians at aid distribution points. The Israeli authorities have repeatedly accused Hamas of stealing aid to fuel its own warfare. On Wednesday, an Israeli government spokesperson denied Israel had caused famine and insisted a man-made shortage was engineered by Hamas. Gaza does not face a humanitarian crisis, it faces a Hamas crisis, David Mencer said in a daily briefing. Hamas steals the aid, they prolong the war - they are to blame. Hamas has seized control of over 25,000 aid trucks going into Gaza. Israel will not let Hamas starve Gaza and blame Israel. The world must see through this cruel manipulation. It is a tragedy that children in Gaza are suffering... but they are suffering at the hands of Hamas. The real tragedy is that the UN says little about Hamas using Gazans as human shields. The UNs silence is shameful. open image in gallery Injured Palestinians are transferred to an ambulance after being wounded while waiting for aid ( AP ) But the situation on the ground has become so horrifying that Israel is facing mounting pressure from its allies to end the war and allow unfettered aid in. On Tuesday, the UKs foreign secretary David Lammy suggested in interviews with broadcasters that Israel could face further sanctions from the UK if it does not agree to a ceasefire in Gaza, adding he feels appalled and sickened by Israels actions. The day before, he had joined counterparts from 24 other nations, including Canada and Japan, in issuing a rare blunt statement warning that the suffering of civilians in Gaza had reached new depths, and urging Israel that the war must end now. Writing in the New Statesman last week, Lord Sumption said there was a strong case that Israel is guilty of war crimes. I have no ideological position on this conflict, he wrote. But I sometimes wonder what Israels defenders would regard as unacceptable, if the current level of Israeli violence in Gaza is not enough. It is impossible for any decent person to be unmoved by the scale of arbitrarily imposed human suffering, or the spectacle of a powerful army brutally assaulting a population already on its knees. This is not self-defence. It is collective punishment, in other words revenge, visited not just on Hamas but on an entire population. It is, in short, a war crime. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, meanwhile, said on Tuesday that images of civilians killed during the distribution of aid were unbearable and urged Israel to deliver on pledges to improve the situation. Aid agencies and news organisations have sounded the alarm about their staffers. The journalists association of the French wire service Agence France-Presse warned on Monday that staff working with the agency in Gaza are at risk of starvation and that without intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die. open image in gallery Displaced Palestinians receive donated food at a community kitchen in Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip ( AP ) The Norwegian Refugee Council said its aid stocks were now depleted and some of its own staff were starving. Our last tent, our last food parcel, our last relief items have been distributed. There is nothing left, its director Jan Egeland told Reuters. Israel is not yielding. They just want to paralyse our work, he said. On the ground, civilians said they are nearing the end. Three days ago, flour almost disappeared, and the price of a kilo reached $50 [37], said Ihab Abudallah, a university lecturer who has to support a family of nine. We are in a situation where we cannot buy food even if we have money. Wajih Al-Najjar, 70, from Gaza City, who is supporting a family of 13, said that a kilo of rice had reached $30 [22] and a kilo of sugar had reached nearly $100 [74]. We have all become hungry and can barely eat one meal a day if we can afford it, he said. People are forced to go to death in search of some aid. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Get Simon Calders Travel email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A picturesque Algerian coastal town, renowned for its stunning Mediterranean vistas, has become the unlikely epicentre of a cultural clash over men's swimwear. Chetaibi, a town of 8,000 residents, thrives on seasonal tourism, drawing thousands to its turquoise waters, rocky coves, and forested hills each summer. This economic reliance has historically fostered a welcoming atmosphere. The mood is warm, welcoming, colorful, bustling no hostility toward bathers, not in words, not in looks, Salah Edine Bey, a long-time resident, said. People here have a tradition of hospitality. open image in gallery Vendors walk on the beach in Algiers ( AP ) But a shift came earlier in July when the town's mayor issued a decree, catching vacationers and local businesses off guard. The order banned beachgoers from wearing Bermuda shorts, deeming the attire "indecent" in contrast to the longer, looser styles favoured by more conservative male beachgoers. These summer outfits disturb the population, they go against our societys moral values and sense of decency, Mayor Layachi Allaoua wrote. The population can no longer tolerate seeing foreigners wandering the streets in indecent clothing." open image in gallery People enjoy the beach in Algiers ( AP ) The order sparked immediate backlash from officials, including in the regional capital Annaba, who called on the mayor to revoke it. The mayor reversed the decree within two days. On Facebook, he insisted his order was not driven by Islamist pressure, but by a desire to preserve peace and tranquility for both residents and guests. Still, the episode tapped into deeper tensions over religion, identity, and public space in a country that remains haunted by a civil war that killed an estimated 200,000 people throughout the 1990s. The conflict began in 1991, when the army canceled elections that an Islamist party was set to win. The so-called black decade ended long ago. But it left unresolved some underlying friction between political Islam and Algerias military-backed secular state. Even though Islamists lost the war in the 1990s, they never gave up on their invasive and intrusive ideological project, which has gained ground in society, sociologist Redouane Boudjemaa said. For some, the beach debate echoed that earlier era, when Islamist-run municipalities tried to reshape public life in line with religious doctrine. open image in gallery A family on a beach in Algiers ( AFP/Getty ) For many Algerians, particularly in underserved regions, political Islam remains popular not out of extremism, but as a reaction to corruption, inequality, and distrust in state institutions. While Islamist parties have mostly fared poorly at the ballot box, they play a large role in daily life, filling social and moral voids. In neighboring Jijel, residents have roped off parts of the beach for mass prayers, with videos of the scenes circulating online and dividing opinion. For Halim Kabir, it is a stark reminder of the past. In the 1990s, Islamists who won local elections in Jijel imposed stricter rules on public behavior. Today, cars parked near the beach have been vandalised, with warnings telling beachgoers to go sin elsewhere. Its provocation, Kabir said. An attempt to drive away visitors from other regions. Said Boukhlifa, a former senior official at the Ministry of Tourism, warned that conservative groups are exploiting Algerias economic troubles, as falling gas revenues strain the state, to expand their influence. That, he said, could undermine the countrys ambitions to grow its tourism sector. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Met Office has issued a new yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across the south of the UK. The forecasters warned residents of Brighton and Hove, East Sussex and Kent to expect heavy showers and thunderstorms on Wednesday afternoon. The yellow warning came into force as soon as it was issued at 12.52pm and will remain in place until 5pm. open image in gallery The yellow warning came into force as soon as it was issued at 12.52pm and will remain in place until 5pm ( Met Office ) The Met Office said slow-moving heavy showers and thunderstorms will hit parts of Kent and Sussex through Wednesday afternoon. It said some places will miss the downpours, but where they do occur 20 to 25mm of rain is likely in less than an hour, with a chance of 30 to 40mm falling over one to two hours in a few locations. This is likely to lead to some surface water flooding and disruption, while lightning strikes may be an additional hazard. The forecaster said the showers and thunderstorms are expected to slowly die out on Wednesday evening. open image in gallery It is the latest in a series of weather warnings issued for most of the country over the weekend ( PA Wire ) It is the latest in a series of weather warnings issued for most of the country over the past weekend. An amber danger to life alert came into force for London, parts of the South and southeast England on Saturday. Downpours were seen across the capital in what was the first amber warning issued for London since January 2024. There were six weather warnings in place on Sunday for either rain or thunderstorms, and three on Monday. The wet weather comes after a dry and hot spring and three heatwaves so far this summer, which left four regions of England in drought. England recorded its driest March to June period since 1893, according to the Environment Agency, and dry ground can make flooding more likely as it is unable to absorb as much water. Met Offices full five-day forecast: Wednesday Scattered showers today across western and southern parts with the showers potentially turning heavy and thundery into the afternoon. A mix of bright spells and a few light showers elsewhere. Feeling warm in any sunshine. Wednesday evening Showers slowly fading, though a few continuing across East Anglia and southwest England. Otherwise, a mix of cloud and clear spells, with perhaps some patchy drizzle in north-west Scotland. Thursday Rain and showers developing across eastern England during Thursday, but mostly dry elsewhere. Brightest conditions in the west and feeling warm once again in any sunshine. Outlook for Friday to Sunday: Largely dry and fine across the South and East on Friday and Saturday, with patchy rain elsewhere. Showery in the North on Sunday, with potentially some heavy rain developing further south. The drone delivery company Manna says it has received 400 signatories to a letter of support for the service in the Dublin 15 area, following weeks of claims and counterclaims over noise pollution. It comes after an order from Fingal County Council requiring Manna to dismantle a drone base in a car park at Junction 6 in west Dublin which, the council said, had no planning permission for use as a commercial drone facility. Japanese exporters hit with 15pc tariff as US trade deal struck Stocks up on certainty for car makers removes threat of trade disruption US president Donald Trump. Photo: Getty Jennifer A. Dlouhy, Josh Wingrove and Yoshiaki Nohara Bloomberg Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 09:43 President Donald Trump reached a trade deal with Japan that will impose 15pc tariffs on imports including automobiles from the key American ally, while creating a $550bn fund to make investments in the US. After years of campaigning, so-called Forgotten Farmers now recognised as Long Established Young Farmers have finally been offered long-awaited support from the Department of Agriculture. Stock Image: Getty. After years of being left behind by agricultural policy, the group of farmers long known as the Forgotten Farmers are finally getting a long-promised support a once-off payment of up to 5,000. Glyn Egan: Sheep farmers are calling it quits you cant blame them Big changes are needed or many more will throw in the towel 'Sheep Shepard' Glyn Egan on his farm at Barnastooka, Kilgarvan, County Kerry. Photo: Don MacMonagle Farming Independent Glyn Egan Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 08:42 Its been a pretty busy time down on the farm lately. We were fortunate enough to have a dry spell, which was ideal for getting things done outside. latest | Principal tells of sadness at loss of vibrant and much loved pupils in Fermanagh suspected murder-attempted suicide Victims named as Vanessa Whyte and her two children, James (14) and Sara (13), who lived in Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh A man who also suffered gunshot wounds remains in a serious condition in hospitalMs Whyte (40s) was originally from Ennis, Co Clare, and worked as a veterinary surgeonPSNI make direct appeal to family and friends of victimsPolice confirm 999 call was made from the family home Mum and children killed in Maguiresbridge shooting tragedy named locally Ralph Riegel and Niamh Campbell Thu 24 Jul 2025 at 17:31 The school of two children killed in a suspected Fermanagh murder-attempted suicide have told of their sadness and loss of the vibrant and much valued pupils. Double killer Frank McCann has been seen back on the streets of Dublin despite a parole board turning down his latest bid for freedom on the grounds he still poses a threat to society. Biologists have long thought feathers first evolved so that creatures such as birds could better regulate their body temperature, but UCC research on a fossil reptile suggests a different explanation. Questions about the long-held thermo-regulation theory for why feathers evolved on Earth follows analysis by Maria McNamara, Professor of Palaeontology at UCC, and UCC colleagues of the soft tissue of a 247-million-year-old reptile fossil, Mirasaura grauvogeli. latest | 1bn VAT reduction for restaurants to be delayed until July 2026 in bid to allow for other tax cuts Trump tariffs now expected to land at 15pc and cause economic blow Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe launching the Summer Economic Statement. Photo: Collins Gabija Gataveckaite Thu 24 Jul 2025 at 09:03 The 1bn reduction in VAT for the hospitality sector is to be delayed until July 2026 in a bid to give ministers more room for other tax cuts in the Budget. Would-be spy who dreamt of being like 007 is found guilty of offering to work for Russia Money was the motivation for man infatuated with MI5 and MI6 who was caught in sting operation Howard Phillips was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in May last year. Photo: PA Harry Stedman Press Association Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 A British man who dreamt about being like James Bond has been found guilty of trying to spy for what he believed to be Russian intelligence service agents. Maire Treasa Ni Cheallaigh: Sorry, Cork fans but if you are a true supporter, you stay to the bitter end This is not a dig at Rebel County supporters, but the sight of many of them leaving early in the All-Ireland hurling final brought to mind one of sports great unwritten laws Fans cheer during the pre-game parade before Sunday's All-Ireland hurling final at Croke Park. Photo: Sportsfile Maire Treasa Ni Cheallaigh Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Legend has it that when Teddy Sheringham scored an injury-time equaliser against Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final in Barcelona, the late George Best had already left the Nou Camp, and therefore also missed the winner scored by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, that brought the historic treble to Manchester United. Ive never had the urge in life to climb a mountain, but to build the mountain. A snapshot of the philosophy of Chupi Sweetman, founder of bespoke jewellery brand Chupi, who was keen to take her first steps in the business world at a young age. My brother and I ran a little food business when we were maybe like 12 or 13, just a little country market, she says on the latest episode of the Money Talks podcast. I started my womenswear label, properly, [when] I was about 14 or 15. I sold my first piece in Temple Bar when I was 15 and then opened my first stall when I was 16 paid my way through school and college on that market. Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 24th From there, Sweetman was scouted for a top design job, working across Dublin and London. Twenty years later, her namesake brand is her daily focus. Youve got to be pragmatic and understand that you cant win every day, she says, adding that entrepreneurship isnt a straight line. Weve had some of the most incredible highs we've also had some of the most incredible lows. On this episode of Money Talks, Sweetman opens up about her childhood and her dads affair with my mums sister. When Dad left, there was no money. And I genuinely mean no money, she tells host Katie Byrne. Yet her mother, writer Rosita Sweetman, never let her two children feel the financial strain she was under. I look back at the photographs really underestimating how poor we were, but we didn't feel it, she says. How did she pay the mortgage? How did she put a roof over our heads? I really genuinely believe there was nothing I could have asked her for that she wouldn't have figured out a way to have gotten to. Sweetman also reflects on her long journey to parenthood, and the cost of undergoing fertility treatment. "I just thought you did IVF and had a baby. I was so naive. I thought you'd go do a cycle and then you'd get your baby... But each cycle in theory is about 5,500. Realistically, it's more like 10 [cycles]. So we were, it was about 45,000 having our daughter. I would've paid it 10 times over... she is absolutely priceless, she says of her daughter Aya, who is now five. But also, how unbelievable that there's a price on it. Money Talks is available wherever you get your podcasts, with new episodes released on Wednesdays. The content of this podcast is for information purposes and does not constitute investment advice or recommendation of any investment product. For nearly 400 years, the Barne Estate in Tipperary has been under the ownership of the Thomson-Moore family, going all the way back to 1654. Today, the future of the 750-acre property is the subject of a trial that has seen a bitter land dispute play out before the High Court. John Magnier, the bloodstock billionaire, and two of his children, are seeking to enforce a handshake deal agreed between Mr Magnier and Richard Thomson-Moore to buy Barne Estate. Mr Magnier contends that the 15m deal agreed in his Coolmore home in Tipperary on August 22, 2023 with Mr Thomson-Moore is binding. He argues that a later 22.5m deal Mr Thomson-Moore and his family trust agreed with Maurice Regan, the US-based Kerry building tycoon, is unlawful. Today on The Indo Daily, in the first of a two-part special, Fionnan Sheahan is joined by Mark Tighe, journalist with the Sunday Independent, to discuss one of the most dramatic and colourful cases to hit the Irish courts in recent memory. Senator Nicole Ryan has expressed concerns over the proposed development of a new IPAS accommodation centre in Macroom, citing a lack of community consultation and growing pressure on local services. Planning was recently granted for additional accommodation for international protection applicants (IPAs) in Macroom, despite objections raised by some locals. Cork-based Peppard Investments Limited received conditional permission to construct two buildings to provide 20 apartment-style units for temporary accommodation for IPAs at Lower Codrum at the western outskirts of the town. Planning was also granted for the demolition of an existing dwelling and outbuilding, to allow for construction. The development will serve as additional accommodation at the existing Macroom Accommodation Centre at the Riverside Park Hotel. It will be built on the eastern site adjacent to the former hotel. Planners granted permission for the development of the temporary accommodation on June 19, subject to 23 conditions. The Sinn Fein senator said she has been contacted by numerous constituents in recent days who feel decisions are being made about their town without any public input, consultation, or transparency. Speaking on the matter Ms Ryan said residents have highlighted persistent local challenges such as pressure on schools and transport. Macroom is already home to existing IPAS accommodation. People are understandably asking whether the town has the capacity to accommodate further expansion without significant investment in services and infrastructure. Residents have also highlighted persistent local challenges, including a boil water notice that has remained in place for years and pressure on schools, transport, and other community services, she added. Senator Ryan emphasised that Macroom is a welcoming town, but said existing residents and new arrivals deserve proper resources and supports. This is not about opposing those in need. Macroom is a warm and welcoming town. But both existing residents and new arrivals deserve proper planning, resources, and supports. Thats the only way to ensure everyone can thrive. I have been in contact with the Department of Integration and Cork County Council to ask whether any public consultation or community engagement took place before progressing the application and Im still waiting on a reply. I have also asked them whether a formal assessment of Macrooms local capacity has been carried out and whether additional resourcing or support will be provided if the proposal proceeds, she added. This is about fairness and respect, said Senator Ryan. The people of Macroom deserve answers, not silence. They deserve to be included in decisions that affect their town, not left in the dark. I will keep pushing the Department of Integration and Cork County Council until the people of Macroom get their answers. Senator Eileen Lynch (Fine Gael) subsequently provided an update on the situation to The Corkman: I appreciate that much scaremongering has gone on in regards to the recent planning application which was granted to Peppard Investment. I have been working with Minister Colm Brophy (Minister of State with special responsibility for Migration) on this matter and I confirm that there is currently no application to IPAS for this property to be used for temporary accommodation. Nor was this planning application lodged at the request of or with the knowledge of IPAS. If the development is to be used at a later date, an application will have to be lodged with IPAS. There is no guarantee this would be granted, but there is no application for this at the moment, she added. The Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill officially opened her party colleague John Paul OSheas new constituency office in Kanturk. Minister Carroll MacNeill TD joined Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul OShea for the official opening on Strand Street on Tuesday, July 22. The Minister for Health performed the ribbon-cutting at a special evening attended by local members, community representatives and supporters. The office will serve as a vital resource for people across Cork North West, providing assistance on a wide range of local and national issues including healthcare, housing, agriculture, social protection, and more. Deputy OShea was joined on the day by his constituency team, Cllr Tony OShea and Sinead Mernagh, who will be based at the office and available to support constituents with any queries and advice. Mr OShea said the new constituency office represents his commitment to staying connected and accessible to the people he serves. Im very proud to open it in Kanturk, a town at the heart of our constituency. "Im especially grateful to my team of supporters right across Cork North West for their ongoing support sine being elected to the 34th Dail. I also want to thank my good friend and colleague Minister Carroll MacNeill for joining us to mark the occasion, he added. The Minister for Health praised Deputy OSheas strong community focus and energy in the constituency. John Paul is a passionate advocate for his constituents and brings real energy to his work for Cork North West. Its great to see this new office officially open, offering constituents direct access to support and advice. The new office which will be open from Monday to Friday, from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm will also act as a hub for community engagement, featuring a community noticeboard promoting local events, initiatives, and services. The contact number for the new office is 029 20264 and the email address is johnpaul.oshea@oireachtas.ie A man who is charged with the murder of a mother-of-two in Mallow has appeared again before Mallow District Court on separate previous charges relating to public order and the possession of drugs. Joseph Butler, 42, of The Belfry, Bridewell Lane, Mallow, who last week saw his case for the alleged murder of Paula Canty at his address in January of this year sent forward to the central criminal court by Mallow District Court, was again before the court, this time via video link from Cork Prison. A key priority for the proposed Mallow Relief Road is to ease the chronic traffic congestion that has blighted the town in recent years. Cork projects must be prioritised, stated a Cork TD who expressed concerns over the lack of detail on future plans for the Mallow Relief Road and the Cork-Limerick motorway. Labour Party TD for Cork North Central Eoghan Kenny expressed his disappointment at the lack of detail in the 112bn National Development Plan (NDP) which was announced on Tuesday, July 22. The announcement focused on the funding allocations between 2026 and 2030 for each Department. Highlights from the announcement include: The Department of Housing has been given the biggest envelope of money to work with between 2026 and 2023, a total of 35.95 billion. Of that, 7.68 billion will go towards water infrastructure. Some 3.5bn will be set aside for electricity and upgrading the grid for ESB networks and Eirgrid, the Department of Transport will receive 22.3 billion under the plan and the Department of Health will have 9.25 billion to spend. The projects to be prioritised over the next five years for each Department were not part of the announcement. Deputy Kenny said it was disappointing that more clarity was not provided on the many infrastructure projects both in Cork and nationally. With all the hype of the renewed National Development Plan, it is disappointing how little detail has been provided when so many vital infrastructure projects lie in limbo. The Cork TD said no detail was provided on the Cork-Limerick motorway. Commuters, businesses, and workers remain in the dark about the development of the Cork-Limerick motorway, with no detail provided on future funding for the project. This investment in infrastructure is a vital piece in the future development of Cork and Limerick and serves to alleviate dire traffic congestion and deliver on much needed infrastructure in the counties. The lack of clarity on the Mallow Relief Road also disappointed Deputy Kenny: Once again, we have little light at the end of the tunnel for the Mallow Relief Road with no detail on this project. Mallow continues to resemble a car park with the congestion issues persisting from the main street to all connecting roads around the town. From a climate perspective Mr Kenny was disappointed with the lack of detail on the Cork Luas. Given the targets that have been set for 2030 and 2050 to reduce our emission, the lack of detail on the Cork Luas from the announcement does not inspire confidence that this government is serious about investment in public transport in Cork, nor does it inspire confidence that government have a priority to reduce our emissions and increase climate friendly ways of travel for Cork commuters. These are three vital pieces of infrastructure for Cork. They are vital for our city and county to grow and develop, but once again we are in the dark about real and tangible delivery on these projects, he added. There has been yet another delay in the development of a new school building for Cholaiste Mhuire in Dublin A major school building project in Dublins north inner city has ground to a halt, with the contract for Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuires long-promised school on Dominick Street formally terminated on July 1. The development, part of the Governments National Development Plan, was intended to deliver a 16-classroom primary school on a brownfield site. However, the project has faced repeated delays due to what the Department of Education describes as unforeseen issues with the location. These include archaeological sensitivities, underground services linked to the Luas line, and structural challenges involving a neighbouring protected building. Under the contracts suspension provisions, work was formally paused on May 23 and a conciliation process followed. A Department spokesperson confirmed this week that it ultimately opted to end the contract following careful consideration of the need to ensure compliance with statutory obligations. The project had initially regained momentum in 2024 with the appointment of a dedicated project manager. While progress was made during the second half of that year, delays worsened over the winter and into 2025, eventually leading to a full site shutdown. Labour TD for Dublin Central, Marie Sherlock, said the school community has been let down again after years of temporary accommodation. June 2025 was the long awaited date for the new school building for Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire on Dominick Street, she said. Now well looking at 2026 and thats only if everything else goes to plan. The ball has been dropped by the Department of Education in getting this project done and its outrageous that it should fall to school management and the wider school community to have to chase it up. The Department said it is working closely with school management and has sourced interim accommodation nearby on Cathal Brugha Street. Refurbishment works are under way at this site, with plans to relocate the school community there after the October mid-term break. The temporary facility will include appropriate teaching spaces, sensory supports, office space, and outdoor access. Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon raised concerns in the Dail about the lack of clarity for parents. I raised the completely unacceptable delays to Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuires new building during Topical Questions, he said. In response, the Minister claimed the Department has been in regular contact with parents at the school, a claim that parents themselves have strongly refuted. Officials say they remain in regular contact with the school authorities and are exploring all options to move forward with the delivery of the permanent new school building. This article was amended at 12.55pm on July 23, 2025, to correct the fact that Marie Sherlock is now a TD for Dublin Central An Taisces Clean Coasts photography competition saw 1,178 images from 560 photographers Sean Berry's image"Kick about at the Beach" is the perfect portrayal of a summers evening in Ireland by the coast; a 'Connecting with the Coast' finalist. Mark Simpson was a finalist in 'Connecting with the Coast' with his perfectly timed capture of an evening walker along Sandymount Beach in Dublin. Darragh Gormans image "Play" placed third in 'Connecting with the Coast', a perfectly timed shot of a surfer and their instructor playing in the surf at Rossnowlagh Beach in Donegal Tom Ormond's photo Humpback Whale" came in first place in the 'Wildlife and the Coast' category as part of the 2025 Clean Coasts Love Your Coast Photography Competition. taken at Donegal Bay it is a rare capture of these fascinating marine mammals at sunset. Helen Black's Photo "Let there be Light" Taken in Glendasan Co. Wicklow came first place in the Source to Sea Category of the 2025 Love Your Coast Photography Competition Sean Bruen's photo Balbriggan Lighthouse Blowing a Gale" came 1st place in the 'Coastal Landscape' category of the 2025 Clean Coasts Love Your Coast Photography Competition capturing one of the iconic storms we experienced in January of this year at the Lighthouse in Balbriggan "Tompot Blenny" was captured by Ivan Donoghue at Hook Head in Wexford;a finalist in the 'Underwater' category. Richard Boyle's image "Ripples" displays the stunning colours and textures of ripples across the rocks at Seafield Bay Beach in Wexford: a finalist in the 'Coastal Landscape' category Maria Quigleys photo "Embrace The Water" taken at Coliemore Harbour Co. Dublin was the 1st Place Winner in Connecting to the Coast Category and Overall Winner of Photograher of the Year Winner at Love Your Coast Photography Competition 2025 The beauty of the Irish coast was front and centre at a prestigious awards ceremony which honoured the work of over 500 photographers from around the country. An Taisces Clean Coasts announced the winning photographers of the 2025 Love Your Coast photography competition at an awards ceremony in EPIC, Dublin, which showcased the Irish Coast in all its wonder, captured by some of the best photographers in Ireland. Now in its 16th year, the competition celebrates the immense beauty and heritage of the coast and waterways that Clean Coasts volunteers work tirelessly to protect. This year, Dublin photographer Maria Quigleys photograph, "Embrace the Water", was named the overall winner of the Clean Coasts 2025 Love Your Coast photography competition with her photo also taking first place in the new Connecting with the Coast category. The photo dreamily illustrates the subject Bobby, in the golden soft morning light during his daily swim. Maria explained the process of capturing her photo I took this photo on January 9, 2025, when the sea was 7C and ice covered the slipway. "Bobby, swims daily in the morning time all year-round, usually at Coliemore Harbour, his favourite spot. He says that missing a swim ruins his day. I was lucky to take the photo as the sun was rising at that time. Love Your Coasts 2025 finalists Dublins Sean Bruen took first place in the Coastal Landscape category with his photo titled Balbriggan Lighthouse Blowing a Gale, which he took at Lambeecher, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Helen Black of Co. Wicklow swept first place in the Source to Sea category with her photo Let there be Light taken at Gelndasan, Co. Wicklow. Mark OLeary was the winner of the Underwater category with his photo The Giants which was captured at Loop Head, Co. Clare and the Wildlife and the Coast category winner was Tom Ormond with his photo titled Humpback Whale taken at Donegal Bay, Co. Donegal. Sean Bruen's photo Balbriggan Lighthouse Blowing a Gale" came 1st place in the 'Coastal Landscape' category of the 2025 Clean Coasts Love Your Coast Photography Competition capturing one of the iconic storms we experienced in January of this year at the Lighthouse in Balbriggan Four photographs in total taken in county Wexford secured places as finalists in 2025, shining a spotlight on the diverse wildlife and beauty of the model countys coast. Richard Boyle's image "Ripples" displays the stunning colours and textures of ripples across the rocks at Seafield Bay Beach in Wexford, securing a finalist spot in the 'Coastal Landscape' category. "Shag" by Stephen Dunbar, a finalist in the Wildlife and the Coast category captures a dark and fascinating portrait of the coastal bird on the Saltee Islands off the Wexford Coast. Helen Black's Photo "Let there be Light" Taken in Glendasan Co. Wicklow came first place in the Source to Sea Category of the 2025 Love Your Coast Photography Competition Also taken on the Saltee Islands and securing a finalist spot int the Wildlife and the Coast category, Des Glynn's "Rock Pipit" was captured as the small bird catches insects amongst the fauna. A finalist in the 'Underwater' category, "Tompot Blenny" was captured by Ivan Donoghue at Hook Head. This year over 560 photographers entered a total of 1,178 photos for a placement in the top three in one of five categories and their share of the 5,000 prize fund and for a shot at the coveted title of Photographer of the Year. The five distinct categories this year focused on showcasing the interconnectedness of Irelands waterways and how people, place and nature all connect with Irelands vital blue spaces, be it by the beach, lake, or river. Two new categories were introduced this year to highlight this theme of Connection; Connecting with the Coast, and Source to Sea, alongside firm competition favourites of Coastal Landscape, Wildlife and The Coast, and Underwater. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has been proud to support the Love Your Coast Awards for many years. Love Your Coast provides a powerful forum for Irelands most creative photographers to showcase our spectacular and beautiful coast and seas. The visual legacy that has been built up over the years will provide a powerful record for the future. Support for this inspiring programme is transferring to the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment who welcome and look forward to ongoing engagement with An Taisce in the coming years. Clean Coasts is also sponsored by Failte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority. Initiatives from associated Clean Coasts groups and the Green Coast Awards act as custodians for Ireland's beaches, seas, and marine life. These initiatives ensure that the Irish coastline and beaches are maintained and managed appropriately for visitors and local communities to continue to responsibly enjoy. Darragh Gormans image "Play" placed third in 'Connecting with the Coast', a perfectly timed shot of a surfer and their instructor playing in the surf at Rossnowlagh Beach in Donegal An Taisces Clean Coasts Programme Manager, Bronagh Moore said "The Love Your Coast photography competition, has once again received outstanding submissions which is a testament to the hugely talented photographers we have in Ireland and how they can so creatively capture the stunning beauty of our coastline and waterways. "We introduced two new categories this year to highlight our unique connection to the water and its journey from source to shore, and it proved to be hugely popular. You can see from the beauty of the photographs, why our community groups are so motivated and work tirelessly to care for and protect our coastline, marine life and waterways. The Love Your Coast photography competition aims to promote connection to Irelands coastal beauty and character, as captured through the lens of talented photographers who take part in the competition year after year. Sean Berry's image"Kick about at the Beach" is the perfect portrayal of a summers evening in Ireland by the coast; a 'Connecting with the Coast' finalist. Finalists shortlist and winning photo details by category: Coastal Landscape 1st Place: Sean Bruen Balbriggan Lighthouse Blowing a Gale, taken at Lambeecher, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin 2nd Place: Kevin Grace, Dun Laoghaire Pier Sunrise, taken at Dun Laoghaire Pier, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin 3rd Place: Brendan Alexander, Milky Way over the Murder Hole, taken at Murder Hole Beach, Downing, Co. Donegal Finalists: 4. Richard Boyle, Ripples, taken at Seafield Bay Beach, Co. Wexford 5. Ann Bruen, Moonrise Magic taken in Greenore, Co. Louth. 6. Ciaran Willmore, Light Breaker, taken at Clogher Head, Co. Kerry 7. Nina Finn-Kelcey, Moon Over Cromane, taken at Cromane Lower, Killorglin, Co. Kerry 8. Noel O Neill, Minard Castle and Snow Capped Reeks, taken at Minard Castle Lispole, Tralee, Co. Kerry 9. Adrian Fingleton, Milky Way, taken on Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow 10. Michael Linehan, Twin Lights, taken at Great South Bull Wall, Co. Dublin. Richard Boyle's image "Ripples" displays the stunning colours and textures of ripples across the rocks at Seafield Bay Beach in Wexford: a finalist in the 'Coastal Landscape' category Source to Sea 1st Place: Helen Black, Let there be Light, taken at Glendasan, Co. Wicklow 2nd Place: Felix Sproll, Rainbow Island, taken at Pine Island, Connemara, Co. Galway 3rd Place: Aoife Hester, Mirror Lough, taken at Kylemore Lough, Connemara, Co. Galway Finalists: 4. Lorraine Schilder, Sunrise on the Boyne, taken at Slane Bridge, Slane, Co. Meath 5. Adrian Hendroff, Lower Lake Aurora, taken in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow 6. Magnus Huber, Lough Inagh, taken at Lough Inagh, Connemara National Park, Co. Galway 7. Michael Goulding, Machair Dunes at Sunrise, taken at Machair Dunes, Mulranny, Co. Mayo 8. Terry Conroy, River Coming Home, taken at Keem Beach, Achill, Co. Mayo 9. Zoe Lynch, Beyond the Wall, taken at The Guinness Lake, Lough Tay, Ballinastoe, Co. Wicklow 10. Barry Murphy, Beautiful Autumn Waterfall, taken in Glenmalure, Co. Wicklow Mark Simpson was a finalist in 'Connecting with the Coast' with his perfectly timed capture of an evening walker along Sandymount Beach in Dublin. Connecting with the Coast 1st Place: Maria Quigley, Embrace the Water, taken Coliemore Harbour, Dalkey, Co. Dublin. Also, winner of the overall Photographer of the Year Award 2025 2nd Place: Martin Byrne, Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, taken at White Bay Beach, Co. Cork. Joint 3rd Place: Darragh Gorman, Play, taken at Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal Joint 3rd Place: Sasha Coen, Out of my Depth, taken at Murder Hole Beach, Sheephaven Bay, Co. Donegal Finalists: 5. Kevin Doyle, Golden Surge, taken at Tramore Beach, Co. Waterford 6. Mark Simpson, Evening Walk, taken at Sandymount Beach, Co. Dublin 7. Sean Berry, Kick about at the Beach, taken at Gyles Quay Co. Louth 8. Dave Stanley, What a Wonderful World, taken in Bettystown, Co. Meath 9. Shauna Ward, Yolanda in the Sea, taken at Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo 10. Felix Sproll, Jumping over the Moon, Blackrock Diving Tower, Salthill, Co. Galway "Tompot Blenny" was captured by Ivan Donoghue at Hook Head in Wexford;a finalist in the 'Underwater' category. Underwater 1st Place: Mark O'Leary, The Giants, taken at Loop Head, Co. Clare 2nd Place: Shazia Waheed, Blue-rayed Limpets, taken at Pollock Holes, Kilkee, Co. Clare 3rd Place: Annegret Pfuetzner, Firework Anemone, Kilbricken, Co. Galway Finalists: 4. Stephen Frawley, Dancing in the Light, taken at Sandycove, Co. Dublin 5. Anna Kellagher, Cloaked Hermit Crab, taken in Portmagee, Co. Kerry 6. Brian Casey, Want to Play?, taken in Dalkey Island, Co. Dublin 7. Derek Bolton, Emerald Jewel, taken at Small Sovereign Island, Oysterhaven Bay, Co. Cork. 8. Eabha Hughes, Hiding in Plain Sight, taken in Kilkee, Co. Clare. 9. Ivan Donoghue, Tompot Blenny, taken at Hook Head, Co Wexford 10. John Bennett, Camouflage and Calm, Nature's Illusionist, taken at Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork Tom Ormond's photo Humpback Whale" came in first place in the 'Wildlife and the Coast' category as part of the 2025 Clean Coasts Love Your Coast Photography Competition. taken at Donegal Bay it is a rare capture of these fascinating marine mammals at sunset. Wildlife and the Coast 1. 1st Place: Tom Ormond, Humpback Whale, taken at Donegal Bay, Co. Donegal. 2. 2nd Place: Dan Ryan, Death At Dusk, taken at Dungarvan Harbour, Co. Waterford 3. 3rd Place: Christopher Howes, Sealed with a Kiss, taken at Brides Head, Wicklow Town, Co. Wicklow Finalists: 4. Stephen Dunbar, Shag, Saltee Islands, Co. Wexford 5. Des Glynn, Rock Pipit, Great Saltee Island, Co. Wexford 6. Anna Kellagher, Sunbathing Lizard, Derrynane Co. Kerry 7. Fabienne Perrin, Cormorant Twin, taken at Ireland's Eye, Co Dublin 8. Piotr Rak, Scavenger, Taken at North Bull Island Nature Reserve 9. Christopher Martin, Grey Seal Meal, taken at the River Lee, in Cork City 10. Christopher Howes, Star Fisher, taken at Arklow South Beach, Arklow, Co. Wicklow The Lecture focused on Irelands Place in the World of 2040 and took place at the historic cable station on Valentia Island Pictured from left: Sean Pairceir, Brown Brothers Harriman, Mary-Rose Stafford, Valentia Cable Station Foundation, Lara Pairceir, entrepreneur, businessman Denis O'Brien, Leonard Hobbs, chairman Valentia Cable Station Foundation, and James Maloney, MP at the House of Commons in Canada. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan Minister of State Michael Healy Rae addressing the audience at the Valentia Lecture. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan From left, Pat Stafford, director of engineering at Stafford Crane Group, Phoenix, Ryan O'Meara TD, Padraig Rice TD. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan From left: Pat Stafford, director of engineering at Stafford Crane Group, Phoenix, Ryan O Meara TD, Padraig Rice TD. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan From left: Kate Hickey, Ireland Canada Business Association, John Griffin, Cable Station Foundation, Leonard Hobbs, chairperson at Valentia Transatlantic Cable Foundation, Mary Rose Stafford, Valentia Cable Station Foundation, Mark Faherty, Kerry Group, Digicel founder Denis O'Brien and Kevin Fitzgibbon, National Maritime College Of Ireland. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan At the 9th Annual Valentia Lecture from left: Thomas and Fidelma Cregan with Caragh Curran, chatting with chairman and founder of Digicel Group, Denis O'Brien. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan From left, Mark Faherty, Kerry Group, Mary Rose Stafford, Valentia Cable Station Foundation chatting with Ronan Deasy and Jane Deasy. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan Denis O'Brien speaking at the Valentia Lecture. Photo by Valerie O'Sullivan Denis O'Brien in conversation with James Maloney, MP at the House of Commons in Canada, Minister Michael Healy-Rae, T.D.,and Ireland's Ambassador to Canada, John Connanon. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan Pictured at the ninth edition of the Valentia Lecture: Thomas and Fidelma Cregan with Caragh Curran, managing director of Sustainable Tourism Consultants . Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan Irish businessman Denis OBrien was among the well-known names who spoke at the ninth edition of the Valentia Lecture, which was a hugely successful two-day event. The prestigious lecture took place last Thursday and Friday at the historic cable station on the island. It focused on Irelands Place in the World of 2040. The event is held each year to commemorate the worlds first transatlantic cable, which was laid between Valentia Island and Newfoundland in 1858. The laying of this cable was marked by a message across the ocean, from Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom to President James Buchanan of the United States of America. This years edition of the lecture saw a number of keynote speakers provide a range of perspectives on history, the arts, media, politics, society, technology and business. The speakers included historian Professor Jane Ohlmeyer of Trinity College Dublin, journalist Mick Clifford, Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae, as well as Denis OBrien. Each of the speakers presentations were followed by a panel discussion with four of Irelands future leaders, all aged in their 30s - the same age as Cyrus Field when he led the transatlantic cable project in the late 1800s. More than 30 of the future leaders, with expertise in business, politics, academia, media, government, arts and sport, participated in panels. The Irish Ambassador to Canada, John Concannon, also visited the Lecture alongside James Moloney, MP at the House of Commons in Canada. The Canadian Embassy in Dublin was represented at the event by the head of political and public affairs, Mr David Kyffin. A number of Dail deputies from all over the country and prominent business executives were also in attendance at the event. Kerry Mayor Mike Foley welcomed the guests to Valentia at a gala dinner at the Royal Hotel and Ambassador Concanon delivered a special after-dinner address. The successful event was supported by investment banking company Brown Brothers Harriman. This article was updated at 4pm on August 6 to include further information. Leslie ODonnell, Denis Ferry and Highland Radio presenter Lee Gooch reached Kerry and erected a number of flags along the way. The people of The Kingdom awoke on Wednesday morning to find Donegal flags had been erected in the county thanks to a brave trio of Donegal men. Leslie ODonnell, Denis Ferry and Highland Radio presenter Lee Gooch made their way to Kerry and planted Donegal flags at prominent locations across the country. The men covered 1,200 kilometres, 18 counties, and more than 30 flags were proudly displayed ahead of the All Ireland Final in Croke Park on Sunday when Donegal take on Kerry. In Kerry, the men planted flags at the Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence and at various streets in Killarney while they also hit Enniskillen, Leitrim, Cavan, Mayo and Galway. The Donegal flags erected at the Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence. The trio undertook the brave challenge as part of their latest fundraiser in aid of Zach McCrossan (Letterkenny) and Cassie Sheridan (Creeslough), who are both undergoing treatment for leukaemia in the Netherlands. The men have recently completed a whirlwind three-day fundraising challenge driving from Malin Head to Mizen Head, then from Lands End to John OGroats. Now, ahead of the All-Ireland Final, the trio took their iconic Donegal-branded Mercedes out for one last road trip. The Donegal flags flying in Co Kerry. The trio left Highland Radio at 4pm on Tuesday and headed south to Kerry, planting Donegal flags in well-known spots along the route and meeting supporters along the way. Weve been lucky to drive some incredible roads over the years, from deserts in Africa to frozen lakes in Alaska, said Denis and Leslie. But this ones different. Its about two amazing kids, the generosity of Donegal people, and showing pride in our county on and off the pitch. Leslie ODonnell, Denis Ferry and Highland Radio presenter Lee Gooch made their way to Kerry and planted Donegal flags at prominent locations across the country. The original trip raised over 14,000 online, with even more collected along the journey, and the fundraiser is still going strong. To top it off, the lads are raffling the very Mercedes that completed the trek. Tickets are just 10, and all proceeds go directly to support Zach and Cassies families. The trio putting up flags during their fundraising drive. Theyre also calling out for venues and volunteers across Donegal to help sell raffle tickets in the weeks ahead. From petrol stops and hugs to homemade buns and brown envelopes, people were unreal, added Denis. Now were putting the flags up for Donegal and hopefully raising even more to help these two wee legends. To donate to the fundraiser, visit the Gofundme page here. Kerry fast-food restaurant standing up for Palestinians with boycott of popular drinks company The boycott originated from the owners interest in respecting human rights Jumbo's Family Restaurant owners Damien O'Mahony & Jade O'Mahony with staff members Michelle Mulvihill, Brandon Morrissey. Photo by John Kelliher Jack Joy Kerryman Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 07:31 A Kerry fast-food restaurant is standing up for Palestinians by refusing to sell the popular products of a drinks company reported to have a franchise operating in illegal Israeli settlements. Niall Daly (28) to tried to purchase motorbike from jailed Jonathan Dowdall in 2015 A man who was waterboarded and had his life threatened by former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall has admitted a number of money laundering and forgery charges at Castlebar Circuit Court. Niall Daly (28), of Meadow Park, Westport Road, Castlebar, formerly known as Alexander Hurley, could face jail time after pleading guilty to 20 counts of money laundering, deception and forgery. Jonathan Dowdall and his father, Patrick Dowdall, falsely imprisoned and threatened to kill Hurley who later changed his name to Niall Daly in January 2015. During the three-hour ordeal, the Dowdalls tied him to a chair, waterboarded him, and threatened to chop him up and feed him to dogs and remove his fingernails with a pliers. The father and son were jailed in 2022 for facilitating the murder of Kinahan gang member David Byrne during the 2016 Regency Hotel shooting. Born in Romania, Daly was adopted by an Irish family in Athlone, where he lived from the age of three. He was 18 when he was falsely imprisoned by the Dowdalls after they invited him to dinner at their home on the Navan Road in Dublin. Daly was seeking to buy a motorbike from Jonathan Dowdall, who believed he was being duped by Daly after researching various scamming allegations against him. Daly, who has 14 previous convictions 11 for theft, two for road traffic offences and one for failing to appear in court has lived in Mayo in recent times. Tuesdays sitting of Castlebar Circuit Court was told that Daly had engaged in foolish and unsophisticated offending, which involved bouncing cheques written in his own name from accounts that detailed his name and correct address. Investigating garda Ronan McIntyre told the court that KBC report on August 25, 2020, that Daly tried to open a financial account using a fraudulent mobile phone bill. The bank would have been at a loss of 3,500. Following inquiries, an Ulster Bank account was identified where Daly attempted to cash 12 cheques that bounced due to insufficient funds. The cheques were later lodged when Mr Daly opened an overdraft. There were six parties injured by these activities, into which two complaints were lodged. The court also heard that 29 cheques were written and bounced due to insufficient funds in a PTSB account registered to Daly. On July 14, 2022, 20,000 of a loan was transferred to Mr Dalys An Post account from an account belonging to his father, Dermot Hurley. When contacted by Advanced Finance, Mr Hurley said he knew nothing about the loan. Daly used the money to buy three motorbikes. These were later returned, one of which had 5,000 miles on its clock. Niall Daly, formerly known as Alexander Hurley. Photo: Sunday World Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 24th Defence barrister Mark Ryan, acting on instruction from solicitor Helena Walsh, described his client as a very flawed human being who had engaged in unacceptable behaviour. The court heard that Daly was employed as an accounting technician for a UK-based company and has displayed traits of narcissistic personality disorder. He has been referred by his GP for counselling and was deemed to be at low risk of reoffending by the probation services. Describing his actions as a pattern of serious but foolish and unsophisticated offending, Mr Ryan said his client wished to apologise to his victims and intended to repay the 20,000 he owes his father. Judge Eoin Garavan did not accept that Daly was at low risk of reoffending, citing past incidents where he had stolen from his father, his neighbour and former employers. This man is absolutely fundamentally dishonest, said Judge Garavan, and his history shows that he doesnt really care who he cons. Based on his reading of Dalys probation report, Judge Garavan formed the view that Daly believed he did not have to do anything to address his behaviour. He indicated a two-year custodial sentence and two one-year sentences to run concurrently, but he adjourned imposing a sentence until next year. He also requested restitution and ordered that Daly undertake counselling. I believe his narcissistic nature is such that he will do this again, remarked Judge Garavan, before adjourning the matter until next year. This article was amended at 6.55pm on July 24, 2025, to clarify that sentencing was adjourned pending a further hearing. The R332 remains untouched as no contractor has been appointed for planned upgrade works Mayo County Council may have to return 1.2m in funding to the Department of Transport as delays stall planned upgrades to the R332 Kilmaine to Tuam (Foxhall) road. The project, which received funding in March 2025 as part of a 40.5m allocation for regional and local roads in Mayo, has yet to see a contractor appointed. No work has commenced to date. At the monthly meeting of the Claremorris and Swinford Municipal District, councillors were told that it is unlikely a contractor will be appointed until the last quarter of 2025, meaning that it would be a challenge to fully spend the 1.2m by the end of the year. The issue of the R332 was raised by Cllr Damien Ryan, who stressed the importance of getting the upgrade works carried out as soon as possible. The road isnt just about this municipal district. Everybody south of Castlebar, theyre using it. People are gravitating towards Ballinrobe and picking up on the R332 in Kilmaine and picking up on the motorway in Tuam - thats the access to Dublin, he said. R332 is a key part of the route people in South Mayo use to reach Dublin. It runs from Kilmaine eastward through Tuam, where it connects with the N17. From there, drivers can continue on various motorways straight to Dublin. Cllr Ryan continued: Its critical that work gets underway while the weather is good and contractors are out on the ground. Its 8km of essential infrastructure, its a regional road but its more than that, the traffic count on it is absolutely huge. It is getting to a stage of deterioration and it needs attention, I will be putting pressure on Minister Calleary and Junior Minister Dillon to make sure there is an allocation again next year to complete these works. Councillors Patsy OBrien and Alma Gallagher seconded his comments. Director of Services Tom Gilligan, told the meeting that no contractor had been appointed to the project yet, and informed councillors that it will be challenging to spend the 1.2m before the end of the year. We do have processes and procedures to go through in relation to finding contractors. I accept there has been a delay in relation to the Tuam Foxhall road, but the reality is we probably wont find a contractor until the last quarter. In relation to the allocation we got, I have to be honest with you, it will be extremely challenging to spend that money, he said. In response, Cllr Ryan insisted that as public representatives they cannot and will not accept losing any money allocated to them, We were long enough looking for money and I certainly want it spent. We need to be in a position to accept an allocation in 2026 to complete the upgrade. The people cant wait any longer, this piece of infrastructure has been needed for years. We have to spend the money we have, Whether we have to convene other meetings or not, it has to move on. Were complaining were not getting enough, but by God theres no money going back. Well suffer next year because of our inability to spend what we got, he said. The 40.5m allocated in 2025 was a significant increase from the previous two years. In 2024 the county was granted 36.7 million, and in 2023 it was 29.3m. This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme The largest ever Government investment in Mayos rural water services will benefit 20 Group Water Schemes. Pictured: Callow Lake in Foxford co Mayo which will received 2.89m from the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme. The programme aims to improve water infrastructure across rural Group Water Schemes (GWS). 20 GWS across Mayo will benefit from the funding, which is the largest Government investment to date for water services in the county. The funding will support a range of projects in Mayo, including source protection measures, water treatment upgrades, leakage reduction and prevention, new community water connections, as well as the formal taking-in-charge of four Group Water Schemes and Group Sewerage Schemes in Mayo. 2.89m was granted to Callow Lake GWS for water conservation and leakage reduction. Cllr Neil Cruise from Foxford spoke to the Irish Independent and welcomed the funding. He mentioned there is a lot of pipe work that needs to be replaced due to ongoing leakage issues, This news is wonderful for the greater east Mayo area, this is funding that is hugely required. It is very welcomed news to help solve the ongoing issues, make things better for the environment, and protect the water. Cllr Cruise made a motion at the last Mayo County Council meeting to develop a LIFE project in the Pontoon area, to help preserve water quality in Lough Conn and Lough Cullin, similar to the ongoing LIFE project in Lough Carra. Lough Carra GWS also received 1.2m to improve water efficiency and reduce losses. Cllr Donna Sheridan from Castlebar said that todays announcement is great news for communities in the Castlebar Municipal District. It is so important that we protect our water sources and ensure the highest standards in our water treatment. We must ensure that communities across Castlebar Municipal District have the benefit of high water infrastructure and water services, This funding, and the completion of these projects, will allow GWS to continue to improve the quality, quantity, and reliability of the water services across Mayo. Over 7.5m has been allocated to support the taking-in-charge of dozens of group water and sewage schemes across the county, to help ensure long-term sustainability and public oversight. Minister of State, Alan Dillion TD, welcomed the significant investment saying: This vital funding will support the development and maintenance of essential water and sanitation services, ensuring that rural households have access to clean, safe, and reliable drinking water, The Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme is not only about improving quality of life, it also supports economic activities such as agriculture, livestock farming, and tourism, all of which depend on reliable water resources, This is one of the most significant investments in rural water infrastructure ever seen in Mayo. It will directly benefit thousands of households, improve water quality, reduce leakage, and ensure that rural communities have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water services. This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme. Around the Districts Social dance Social Dance in the Loftus Hall, Ballymote, Sunday, August 3, at 8.30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Music by the Frank Nelson Band. Please come and support. Admission 10. Community lotto There was no jackpot winner of the Ballymote Community lotto jackpot on Sunday, July 13. Numbers drawn were 9, 12, 13 and 24 there were seven match-three winners, names of winners displayed locally. Next jackpot draw of 4,600 will take place on July 27 Envelopes for Ballymote Community lotto are now on sale in Ballymote and District Credit Union, John Doddys Bar and Lounge, Alan OSullivan Butchers. 2 for one line/row, 5 for three lines/rows. Online sales will continue as normal. The draw takes place every two weeks on Sunday night. Thank you for your continued support. Sympathy Sympathy is extended to the family, relatives and friends of Dympna Frizzell, Ballinacarrow and formerly Ballymote; Noreen Gildea, Riverstown and formerly Ballymote, whose deaths occurred recently. Keash Garland Festival King of the hill is part of the Keash Garland Festival and will take place on Saturday, July 26. Both routes are challenging but offer wonderful views of keash and the surrounding countryside. We will also host a 5K family walk on the day, with all proceeds from our events going towards Gurteen/Culfadda/Keash Community First Responders/Defibrillator Group, who offer an invaluable service to our local area and outside. Registration is available online or on the day at Eastern Harps GAA Clubhouse from 5.30 p.m. 10K run starts at 7 p.m., 5K run starts at 7.20 p.m. with our 5K walkers starting at 7.10 p.m. your support is greatly appreciated. On Sunday, July 27, we will host our annual Garland Sunday Family Fun Day at Fr Kevin Memorial Park at 2 p.m. Ballymote Community Park fundraiser Ballymote Community Park fundraiser continues with our draw for 80,000 cash or a new camper van see more at eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=winanewcamper.ie/638884266477372459 Unknown 0. Our teams will continue selling tickets door to door in Ballymote. Thank you for your ongoing support. Ballymote Tidy Towns update Our Pride of Place 2025 competition is open with judging in mid August. With your help we can start street clean-ups by focusing on a different street every week. Please text 087 6796056 to volunteer for street clean-ups or with weekly jobs. Finally its judging time please keep your premises tidy especially at this time. Concert Conor McDonagh, Ryan Sheridan, Sinead Johnston and Conor Connolly are no strangers in traditional music circles. They will grace the stage in the Coleman Music Centre in Gurteen, Co. Sligo on Wednesday, July 30, at eight.pm. Tickets are now on sale 18. To book: call 071 9182599 or see colemanirishmusic.com. Ballymote FRC An activator poles walking group meets at Ballymote Family Resource Centre every Tuesday from 10.11 a.m. Acitvator poles are useful for improving stability, reducing impact on joints and increasing muscle strength. Please contact Ballymote FRC at 071 9197818 for more details. Iyengar yoga classes are running at Ballymote FRC This class is running Thursday evenings starting at 6.30 p.m. Please ring Therese on 086-3230197 to book a place. A psychotherapist qualified in the fields of adolescent counselling, ADHD/ADD, Self-esteem, therapeutical play skills and parenting is available at Ballymote FRC. Please contact Maura on 083-3417974 for more details. Notes Anyone who wishes to have news items included in the notes, please email miriamsfinn@eircom.net or phone 085 7561547.The deadline for submission of notes is 5pm on Thursdays. Carraroe Garland Weekend at Tobernalt Carraroe Programme Theme: Prayer Our Connection with God Friday, July 25 10 a.m. Morning Mass in Carraroe church United in Prayer Private pilgrimage in preparation for the weekend. Saturday, July 26 6.30 p.m. Individual Confession. 7 p.m. Evening Mass Honour our faith Sunday, July 27 6 a.m. Dawn Mass Pilgrimage in Prayer 10 a.m. Morning Mass Remembering our deceased, family, relatives and friends. midday Mass Healing through Prayer Traffic Directions: Please note that Stewards and Gardai on duty for Garland Weekend. A one-way system of traffic will be in operation to help traffic flow and parking at the Holywell. Please follow their directions during the weekend. Parking will be available at the Water glades along with the Holywell area. Vandalism at Weighbridge It is sad that someone deliberately destroyed one of the Water Butts at weighbridge. We ask the wider community to keep a watch for such unwelcome behaviour and report such to the Gardai. Our local Community Garda Mark Connor has been informed of this event. Anyone can contact him at Sligo Garda station; leave a message and he will call you back. Mark will also visit people in their own homes to discuss issues. Walk in Unity from St Annes Church A Camino from St Annes in Sligo to the Holy Well will take place on Sunday, July 28, beginning at 4.45 a.m. and arriving at the Holy Well for the 6 a.m. dawn Mass. All welcome. Community Centre Closed To facilitate painting of Community Centre it will be closed for week July 21 to July 25-for more info contact carraroe@holywellsligo.com Phone 071 9162136, Mobile: 087 8198466. Church Sacristan Carraroe Church needs a new sacristan to help with the running of the various ceremonies throughout the year. This is a paid post with approximately 20 hours per week. Full training will be provided. Contact parish office: 071 9162136, Mobile: 087 8198466 for further information. Please note: The Holy Well History and Heritage book is available at the church Bookstand in Carraroe or Liber Bookshop with a full account of the Holy Well down through the years. Mass Cards/Bouquets also available. for further information contact carraroe@holywellsligo.com 071 9162136, Mobile 087 8198466. Website: holywellsligo.com. EV Charging Facility in Carraroe Its good to see a new charging facility is now available at the Applegreen Shop in Carraroe. Well done to Applegreen for making the facility available in the area. Defibrillators The Cadra defibs are all registered with the National Ambulance service which will advise any callers of nearest one to you. All must be checked to ensure all are in working order on a weekly basis. It would be appreciated if a volunteer would take on the role of checking and share the load. You can email your willingness to cadrasligo1@gmail.com or telephone 089 2459123. Exercise Sessions in Carraroe Our Exercise sessions are cancelled from July 21 to July 25 to facilitate painting of Community Centre. We have a WhatsApp text group specifically for the Walking and Exercise sessions. All welcome to join as it is the method we update people for more info ring 089 2459123 or email cadrasligo1@gmail.com. St John GAA Lotto Jackpot: 7,800. Draw now takes place on Mondays. Tickets are available in the following outlets:Molly Fultons, Cannings, Pearse Road, Christies Supermarket Pearse Road, Applegreen Petrol Station Carraroe, or any club member. You can also play online at St Johns GAA webpage. Blessed Carlo - New Shrine at the Holy Well. The shrine to Blessed Carlo is now completed at the Holy Well. This shrine reminds us that the Holy Well is for all generations and all people. Blessed Carlo will be canonised on September 7. Carraroe Bus Timetables Cadra has published and circulated a A4 sheet of local link bus timetables for easy reference. We have printed some and left them in Church Porch for anyone with difficulty printing. We would encourage as many residents a s possible to use the service to ensure we can retain it and expand in future. Dancing in Carraroe Community Centre. Learn to Dance Jive, waltz, Quick Step in Carraroe Community Centre each Wednesday at 8 p.m. Social dancing from 9.00 p.m. to 11 p.m. =A8CFor more information call Frank at 087 9809432. News/Events Contact To have events/news items included in Carraroe section contact 087 2222835 or email carraroesligonews@gmail.com not later than Friday am each week. Cloonacool Music Session The monthly music session held in the community centre each month will take place in July on Thursday 24. This promises to be a great night with many holiday makers at home in the parish at that time. Clothes Collection This collection, in aid of the community centre, is now complete. It was a fantastic collection and special thanks is issued to all who contributed bags of clothes. Heritage Book Micilin na mBo, the recent publication by the newly formed Cloonacool Heritage Group remains on sale locally, at the Mill Community cafe and at Surlis SuperValu, Tubbercurry. The book has proved very popular and is now in very short supply. Jack and Jill The recent fundraiser organised by Margaret McIntyre in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation was a huge success. A massive thank you to the Mill Cafe and all who helped on the day of the event. An amazing 2,805.63 was raised for this great charity. Irish summer class Junior Cycle Irish Course: suitable for first-3rd years, August 6 and 7.10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Banada. Call or text Siobhan at 087 6151581 to book or for further enquiries. Notes Email notes to cloonacoolnotes@gmail.com by 6 p.m. on Thursday. Minister Marian Harkin has welcomed the revised National Development Plan (NDP), which outlines a record 275.4 billion in total investment from 2026 to 2035. The updated plan, published by Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Jack Chambers, includes an additional 34 billion in capital funding compared to the original 20212030 framework. This brings the total investment to 102.4 billion over the next five years, with a further 100 billion earmarked through to 2035. This revised NDP represents the most substantial capital allocation in the history of the State, aiming to secure Irelands future and deliver on vital infrastructure projects. This is a once-in-a-generation investment that must deliver real progress for people in Sligo, Leitrim and south Donegal said Minister Harkin The revised NDP focuses on transformational infrastructure across key sectors including housing, water, energy, and transport, alongside major investments in health, disability services, and education. Speaking after the launch Minister Harkin said I support the plans emphasis on Balanced/Equitable regional development, ensuring all parts of the country benefit from this investment. This is absolutely crucial for me because we have seen a history of underinvestment in the Northern and Western region. "This Review commits to ensuring a 50:50 distribution of future growth as outlined in the National Planning Framework and this will mean more investment in infrastructure, roads, rail, water, electricity, the construction of homes for families and individuals in the region and the provision of adequate services especially in healthcare and education including lifelong education which relates to my Department. "We also need to ensure sensible, long-term planning, particularly in the face of global trade tensions and ongoing economic uncertainty. Equally investing in childrens disability services and expanding access to childcare and school places is an important part of the plan. Follow Independent Leitrim on Facebook In regard to her own Department she stated: Investing in further education and vocational training to meet the growing demand for construction workers required to deliver the expanded pipeline of national projects is central to the delivery of housing. "My departments emphasis on expanding the number of apprenticeships especially in construction and green skills will play a central role here and combined with the drive to embed modern methods of construction in our apprenticeship courses we hope to see an acceleration of construction delivery in the next number of years. Each Government Department has now been charged with delivering essential infrastructure, and I will continue to ensure that the revised NDP achieves meaningful outcomes for the people of Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal, she said. Two men duped into money laundering for Dublin crime gang after Sligo company duped out of 39,000 Company was defrauded out of 39,000 with one of the accused told if he didnt co-operate, then three Kinahans would visit his mum The case was heard at Sligo Courthouse. Emma Gallagher Sligo Champion Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 05:00 Two men who were duped into money laundering for a criminal organisation appeared before Judge Mary OMalley Costello on Friday. Visitors can now experience IKEAs largest store outside of Dublin, over eight times larger than other Plan and Order Points in Ireland, offering an enhanced design experience, immediate access to 100 popular home essentials including KALLAX units and RASKOG trolleys, alongside a convenient Click and Collect service for any IKEA item purchased online. Photography: David Clynch Photography IKEA Irelands Jayne Owen Gauld (Market Manager), Naomi Peck (Deputy Market Manager), and Miranda Lyons (Market Development Leader) celebrate with Minister Mary Butler and Minister John Cummins at the official opening of the new IKEA Waterford Plan and Order Point at Tramore Road Business Park. IKEA's largest store outside Dublin was formally opened by Mayor Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Minister Mary Butler, Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, and Minister John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. They celebrated this milestone alongside IKEA Ireland Market Manager Jayne Owen Gauld, Deputy Market Manager Naomi Peck, and Market Development Leader Miranda Lyons, supported by local councillors and IKEA co-workers. Photography: David Clynch Photography Ikea has now opened its seventh plan and order point in Ireland, located in Waterford at Tramore Road Business Park, creating 15 new jobs. Spanning 840sqm, the Waterford plan and order point is Ikea's largest store outside Dublin and is meticulously designed to inspire, according to the company. It is over eight times larger than all other existing plan and order points in Ireland, which typically range from 70-100sqm. The significant size allows for a more expansive and immersive customer experience, showcasing a selection of inspirational and affordable kitchen ideas, alongside a comprehensive appliance studio, said a spokesperson. Ikeas commitment to the local economy is further underscored by the recruitment of 15 new co-workers from the Waterford area who will support customers in designing their dream homes. Among these, five are dedicated Ikea design specialists who will provide expert home furnishing advice, guiding customers through the design, delivery, and installation of their ideal spaces. Customers can book an appointment at Ikea.ie, or drop in to the store, to start their design with one of the five Ikea design specialists. IKEA's largest store outside Dublin was formally opened by Mayor Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Minister Mary Butler, Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, and Minister John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. They celebrated this milestone alongside IKEA Ireland Market Manager Jayne Owen Gauld, Deputy Market Manager Naomi Peck, and Market Development Leader Miranda Lyons, supported by local councillors and IKEA co-workers. Photography: David Clynch Photography Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd While retaining its core focus on bespoke kitchen, wardrobe, and living room storage planning, the Waterford store features 100 Ikea products available for immediate purchase, including popular accessories like Kallax units and Raskog trolleys, allowing customers to walk away with items on the same day. Additionally, the store provides a convenient click and collect service for any Ikea item ordered online, and serves as an in-store returns location. For efficiency, the new location operates on a cashless basis, accepting card and digital payments only. Jayne Owen Gauld, market manager for Ikea Ireland said: This represents a pivotal moment in our mission to make Ikea more accessible and convenient for everyone across Ireland. Waterford is a truly vibrant city, and we are confident that this new format, with its dedicated planning expertise, immediate product availability, and seamless Click and Collect service, will perfectly cater to the needs of this wonderful community and the entire Southeast. We are excited to become a valuable and active member of the Waterford community. Ikea Waterford plan and order point welcomed its first customer, Liam Byrne, from the local area, who received a special gift to mark the occasion from Ikea Ireland marketing manager Deborah Anderson. Photography: David Clynch Photography Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Seamus Ryan said: This marks the beginning of Ikeas expansive plans across Ireland and we are delighted that Waterford is the location that has been chosen for the largest Ikea store outside of Dublin. As a city committed to innovation and sustainable growth, we are pleased to see Ikea bringing their global reputation for accessible and modern living solutions to Waterford. We wish Ikea Waterford every success in the months and years ahead. I have no doubt this new Plan and Order Point will be well used by the citizens of Waterford. Follow Independent Waterford on Facebook Government Chief Whip and junior minister Mary Butler said: The fact that such a renowned and reputable multinational company such as Ikea has chosen our county to expand its Irish footprint is a huge vote of confidence in the economic robustness of Waterford City and the South East region. Junior minister for local government and planning John Cummins added: Its a clear vote of confidence in Waterford as a hub for growth and opportunity and this investment will deliver economic benefits, create jobs and enhance Waterfords profile as a destination for global brands, like Ikea. I want to commend Ikea for their continued expansion here in Ireland. In recent years their investment has provided a wide range of innovative products to customers, and I know my colleague Alan Dillon, minister of state for small business, retail and employment looks forward to continuing to work with Ikea into the future. Meetings due to take place in Kiltealy and The Ballagh amid claims from some residents that not enough consultation took place There have been concerns regarding traffic and the lack of footpaths in Ballaghkeene for a number of years. Wexford County Council (WCC) is to hold public information evenings in The Ballagh and Kiltealy to discuss two separate Safe Routes to School schemes which have caused consternation in their respective communities. The primary schools in both villages have been awarded funding for schemes which, should they proceed, will see new pedestrian crossings and speed ramps constructed outside each school. In addition, the works will lead to the widening of footpaths, narrowing of roads, and tightening of junctions in the two villages. However, those living in The Ballagh and Kiltealy have voiced their discontent regarding the schemes with many accusing the organisation behind The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) initiative (An Taisce) of not engaging with the public prior to finalising its plans. In the Ballagh, a public meeting saw 64 per cent of those in attendance reject the proposed scheme in their village, while in Kiltealy there have been 92 submissions made by members of the public raising concerns about the layout of the scheme and how it will affect residents. With the council under increasing pressure to liaise with the public, director or roads Eamonn Hore has announced that two information evenings will be arranged in the villages between August 5-15. In a letter issued to all relevant stakeholders, Mr Hore said that following these meetings a decision will be made to proceed with the Safe Routes to School plans or not to proceed with the plans. Wexford County Council would like to see all representatives of the village who have an interest in Safe Routes to Schools, including parents, residents and business owners attend at these meetings. We all aim to keep the children safe. Mr Hore also drew attention to the fact that the delivery plan and audits for the schemes were presented to each schools board of management on February 19 (Ballaghkeene) and March 4 (Kiltealy) and that the latter also included a walkability audit carried out in the village with students and the Green Schools Travel Officer. The decision to meet with the public comes after local councillors chose to go in committee to discuss the schemes at two district meetings last week. On Tuesday morning last, at the July meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD), cathaoirleach Councillor Barbara Anne Murphy proposed that the media be asked to leave so that councillors could discuss the Kiltealy safe routes scheme privately. Cllr Jackser Owens objected to this proposal and the matter was put to a vote with Cllrs Aidan Browne, Pat Kehoe, and Trish Byrne voting to go in committee, and Cllr Owens, and John ORourke voting to hold the discussion with members of the media present. As a result the subsequent discussion was held privately. Later that day, at the Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District (GKMD) councillors held a private meeting with members of the community from The Ballagh prior to their public meeting. The media was not invited to attend the private meeting. However, at the county council meeting a day prior, some discussion on the schemes took place under the full glare of the assembled press. Some residents in Kiltealy strongly oppose the safe routes to school scheme proposed for the village. Councillor Paddy Kavanagh was the first to raise the topic, contending that neither he, nor the people he represents, had been consulted regarding the Ballaghkeene scheme. I have no objection to the SRTS, its a fabulous initiative, its putting in ramps and safety features into villages where its long overdue, he said. This is something which would have constantly been raised about The Ballagh in the past. But if An Taisce is coming to a village to alter that village permanently, it should consult with those living locally. Its engineers met with the school, the principal, the parish priest, the parents association, and the board of management; they also consulted with some of the businesses which were directly affected, and those people were of the opinion that these engineers were going to come back to them. But they never came back. "On the day we voted on this at our last district meeting in Gorey, there wasnt even a map for the elected representatives to consult. It would have been so much easier for those engineers if theyd had a public meeting with the people of the parish who are going to be affected by these works for years and years to come. I am not for or against this, but I would like to see some safety measures going in for the schoolchildren and to slow the traffic going through the village. But the local people have to have their say. Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy meanwhile, believed a public information event was the only way to counteract a lot of what she described as misinformation and disinformation which had been circulated in Kiltealy. People need to know whats actually proposed and what the options are and the difference it would make to the village, she said. Theres an organised no campaign in Kiltealy which is difficult to overcome. People feel intimidated by it. While events later in the week would suggest Mr Hore agreed that there was a need for a public information event, he remained of the opinion that the relevant bodies had received due warning of the proposed plans. On April 9 an email was sent to the councillors with all the relevant documentation, including every single plan, the drawings, all the proposed works, and the locations of the pedestrian crossings, he said. On June 16 there was a meeting with the post office, the local shop, and the landowners, and on June 17 there was a report made to the GKMD with the active travel team in attendance. Insisting he had not received any detailed maps in April, Cllr Kavanagh felt that an effort had been to made to slip the scheme by unnoticed. Any maps I have seen since (at the local meetings) were all on A4 sheets, something major like this should be put on the wall in a hall, and be big enough for people to see it properly, he said. It seems like An Taisce was trying to keep the plans closely under wraps and have it on view for a minute amount of time. Thats a sad indictment of the way the councillors have been used. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Schemes. Gardai are carrying out ongoing patrols of the rural Wexford village following a stabbing. An Garda Siochana is appealing to those who may have witnessed a Wexford man being stabbed several times to come forward with information. On July 10, Gardai responded to the emergency call where a man (30s) from New Ross was attacked with a knife. Just before midnight in the Templeshelin area of Adamstown, Co. Wexford, multiple stab wounds were inflicted to the mans face and chest. Upon the arrival of the emergency services, the man was brought to hospital where its believed he required over 100 stitches, however, while his injuries were described as very serious, they were not life-threatening and he was later discharged. Gardai have since been carrying out patrols in the rural area as they monitor the situation. There are definite lines of enquiry ongoing and gardai are calling for those who may have witnessed the incident or are in possession of information, to make themselves known to New Ross Gardai. Separately, gardai are also aware of the theft of items from outside The Cracked Teaport in New Ross town centre. Last week two women were seen taking fairy lights and ornaments from outside the cafe. However, these were all later returned to the staff after an appeal was made on Facebook. Owner Tina Gaffney said she was grateful for the support she received from the community following the event. A Wexford man who attempted to kiss a woman he didnt know when he was drunk was ordered to pay 10,000 in compensation when he appeared before Gorey District Court. Harold Stephenson (25) of Larch Hill, Inch, Gorey, Wexford, was charged with assaulting the woman on December 10, 2023, in the 64 Nightclub in Gorey, Co Wexford. The court heard that 25-year-old Stephenson was on a night out with his friends on December 10 2023 when the incident occurred at 64 Nightclub in Gorey. Gorey Courthouse. Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd The CCTV from the pub was shown to the court which shows Stephenson put his arm around he victim and attempt to kiss her. The older woman was on a night out with her family at the time and the parties were not known to each other. Stephenson was arrested on February 23 2024 in relation to the offence but due to the level of alcohol he had consumed on the night he had no recollection of the incident. Garda OFarrell told the court that he had spent some time explaining the allegation to Stephenson due to his lack of memory of the night. However, once the accused was shown the CCTV footage he accepted responsibility and was apologetic for his actions. Gardai confirmed that the accused has one previous conviction which is road traffic in nature and that he was fully cooperative at all times during the investigation. Garda OFarrell confirmed he would have no concerns about Stephenson going forward as he has not come to the attention of An Garda Siochana since. Justin McQuade BL, barrister for the accused, told the court Stephenson had just finished his masters, he is of good character, and is essentially a good lad. He read a passage from the accuseds statement of interview were he is asked if he meant to offend, upset, or assault the injured party to which the young man replied definitely not. Mr. McQuade BL pointed out to the court that Stephenson thought the woman would see the funny side of it but now understands his mistake and that not everyone has the same sense of humour. Inspector Darragh Jennings informed the court the woman had prepared a victim impact statement which he read to the court on her behalf. The womans statement informed the court that since the night in question she was stressed, angry, sad, and emotionally drained. She set out how she now feels nervous in social situations and had begun taking taxis home from events so as to avoid strangers on public transport. The woman, who is self employed, stated that she had suffered financially due to the stress and sleepless nights as she had to take days off work. Mr. McQuade BL submitted to the court that Stephenson acknowledges this was a regrettable incident and that alcohol played a role but it does not excuse his actions and he accepts that young men should behave in the appropriate manner. The barrister stated that the injured party had eluded to a financial loss in her statement and the accused was prepared to offer 8,000 by way of compensation. He reiterated Stephensons cooperation in the investigation as well as the fact he made early admissions and plead guilty saving the woman needing to enter the witness box and give evidence. Judge Kevin Staunton stated that upon viewing the CCTV these are the actions of a drunken yaw. He went on to say that alcohol played a huge factor and he has no doubt that if drink had not been taken this incident would not have occurred. He describe the matter as quite disgusting and highlighted how his obnoxious drunk behaviour was frightening for the injured party. Judge Staunton stated it was appalling for Stephenson to be dancing with his friends and then to grab and try kiss this woman as it appeared he was out of his mind with drink. However. Judge Staunton accepted the apology given by the accused was genuine. Judge Staunton concluded the accused did something incredibly stupid and horrible, he therefore convicted Stephenson and ordered him to pay 10,000 compensation to the injured party. If this amount was paid by September 1 then section 1(2) of the Probation Act would apply and the man would enter into a 12 month bond to be of good behaviour. Judge Staunton also ordered the defendant to attend as directed by the Probation Services all engagements and programmes dealing with the issue of consent in terms of physical contact. Judge Staunton said he hopes Stephenson learns from this as if he re-offends in a similar manner he will serve a prison sentence. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim, who was born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation, with her big brother Lee. Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim, who was born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation, with her brothers Matthew and Lee. Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim, who was born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation. Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim, who was born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation. The parents of a five-month-old Wicklow girl with a rare condition that requires a liver transplant to save her life are overwhelmed by an outpouring of public support that has raised over 30,000 towards the costs of travelling to London when a donor liver becomes available. Born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation, which affects her liver and other vital organs, Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim has already endured so much despite her young age, but has done so with a smile on her face. Millie Doyle-Keegan from Aughrim, who was born with biliary atresia with splenic malformation. Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd The Kasai procedure to address the condition sadly didnt work for baby Millie, whose liver continues to fail. The only option remaining is a liver transplant at Kings College Hospital in London, which comes with huge travel costs, time off work, accommodation in London and ongoing medical care. To help ease the burden on Sarah and her husband Richie Keegan so they can focus on Millie and their two young boys, Lee and Matthew, Sarahs friend Heather launched a GoFundMe page that has raised 30,554 in just two weeks. When the surgery didnt work, I was embarrassed about doing a fundraiser, but Heather pressed home that we had a sick child, and people wanted to help, Sarah said. Theres lots of bills to pay, so were completely overwhelmed by everyones generosity. Its almost too much. People are contacting us in the village to do fundraisers, but we dont want to take advantage of the situation, so we told them its fine. We were just looking for a bit of help, and have had so much already. From the beginning, it wasnt even about the money its about being told by the hospital that nothing was wrong with Millie, and the situation shes in, she added. Read more Appeal launched to save life of five month-old Wicklow baby with rare condition I was initially told theres nothing wrong at one hospital, before hearing from Crumlin Hospital three days later that she has biliary atresia with splenic malformation. For something so rare, Ive met a few people through different connections with the same condition, so its great to highlight that this happens. People have reached out to me, including a woman whose son has the same condition and had his transplant, offering support and advice. Were so grateful. We were never expecting this. The family will fly to London in August for an assessment, after which Millie will go on a liver transplant list. From then on, they must be on alert 24/7 and ready to fly at a moments notice. If they ring to say the liver is available, theres an ambulance 20 minutes away, we have to be ready to get to the ambulance, go straight to the airport and on to London, Sarah said. Read more Appeal launched to save life of five month-old Wicklow baby with rare condition We could wait one or two years. If her condition worsens, shell be moved up. Im praying someone in the family will match her. Im so blessed she has just taken everything in her stride. It gives us hope for the future. Shes such a good baby, and you can really see her personality shining through. To support baby Millie, visit gofund.me/da6d1c6c Representatives from the Galway Wool Co-Op and Avoca celebrate their new partnership. Avoca has crafted a new partnership with the Galway Wool Co-Op that will see the iconic Wicklow mill, one of Irelands oldest in operation, become the first retail partner of rare, native Irish wool. All 4.5 tonnes of yarn from Galway Wool Co-Ops 2025 harvest will be sold exclusively to Avoca and woven into clothing and homewares for a 100pc native Irish wool collection, debuting as part of the brands autumn-winter collection. Known for its colourful weaves and dedication to supporting Irish producers, for Avoca this partnership is an exclusive collaboration, also supporting a full farm-to-textile journey, championing homegrown materials and traditional Irish craftsmanship in a contemporary way. The announcement comes as Galway Wool Co-Op prepares for the 2025 Meitheal, where wool will be harvested from a rare-breed sheep before being transformed into yarn. The Galway Wool Co-Op was founded five years ago with a mission to restore and celebrate native Irish wool from a rare breed of sheep called The Galway. The strong, white fleeces from this sheep are affectionately known in Irish as bainin. Thanks to the tireless work of The Galway Breeders Sheep Association, with support from the Department of Agriculture, the Galway sheep has been saved from the brink of extinction. Since its establishment, the Co-Op has been committed to achieving a fair and consistent price for the wool that reflects the hard work put in by each grower. Avocas support through the business partnership ensures that this fair pricing is maintained and offers increased commercial opportunities for wool growers across Ireland, preserving this wonderful native breed. Speaking ahead of the harvest, Avoca managing director Brian Handley said that they are so proud to work with The Galway Wool Co-Op as their first ever commercial partner. As one of Irelands oldest mills, we are keenly aware of the challenges faced by local wool growers, so we are delighted to be able to support the Co-Op in a meaningful way while bringing this beautiful, sustainable product to our customers, Mr Handley said. Landowners in the upper Aughrim River catchment and the Aughrim community are set to collaborate on a new EU Horizon project called SpongeWorks that will seek to restore the upper Aughrim Rivers ability to slow down water flow. Wicklow County Council, in partnership with the Wicklow Uplands Council, the East Wicklow Rivers Trust and LAWPRO, has been selected to participate in the project, which aims to improve how Europe manages water, land and climate risks, as one of eight associated regions, chosen from over 70 applications. Each participating region will develop strategies to implement sponge measures - nature-based solutions that help retain water, reduce flood and drought risks and restore ecosystems. Wicklows project specifically focuses on restoring the upper Aughrim Rivers ability to slow down water flow. The SpongeWorks team in Wicklow look forward to collaborating with landowners in the upper Aughrim River catchment and the Aughrim community to identify opportunities and co-create solutions that will benefit everyone involved. Wicklow is the only region from Ireland selected for this project and will collaborate with areas from Germany, the Netherlands, France, Greece, Hungary, Belgium, Italy, Finland, Spain, Ukraine and Montenegro. All participating regions will work together, sharing knowledge and building mutual capacity. The goal is to implement sponge measures that can be scaled up, supported by new tools for their execution and the inclusion of sponge strategies into local governance and planning. SpongeWorks is a leading initiative in Horizon Europe for nature-based climate adaptation, bringing together 28 partners and 23 knowledge institutions. The project is focused on developing practical, scalable solutions for the implementation of sponge measures, addressing key issues related to effectiveness, financing, governance and stakeholder engagement. The name SpongeWorks reflects the capacity of our soils and habitats ability to absorb excess rainfall like a sponge. Sponge measures aim to protect and enhance the landscapes capacity to absorb rainfall, releasing it more slowly back into our rivers. Wicklow County Council chief executive Emer OGorman stated that the Aughrim River project will strengthen partnerships in addressing the challenges of building climate resilience in our river catchments. This initiative will lead to reduced flooding, improved water quality, soil protection and restoration of biodiversity, she said. Better water retention in the uplands will also ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year. A fundraiser has been launched to send 12 budding sailors on a life-changing voyage with Sail Training Ireland from Arklow to Wales this August aboard the tall ship Maybe. Supported by County Wicklow Partnership, SSE Renewables, Wicklow County Council, The Vault Youth Centre, Arklow Sailing Club, and Marine Healthfoods Ltd, the Celtic Tide voyage will see 12 people aged 13 to 17 years make their maiden voyage across the Irish Sea, sailing for 16 hours from Arklow Harbour to its twinned town of Aberystwyth. To raise funds for the experience, which builds confidence, teamwork, resilience, and leadership, participants have set a goal of collecting 1,200 before the end of July, with all donations made via their fundraising page entered into a raffle with spot prizes donated by local supporters. Having spearheaded the initiative, councillor Peir Leonard has appealed to the public to support the once-in-a-lifetime trip via donations or by contributing raffle prizes. The young people involved, who will sail the ship under the guidance of the great team at Sail Training Ireland, are holding a raffle with some great prizes, she said. If anyone has any unused gifts or vouchers that they would like to donate to the raffle, please get in touch. To help fund the trip, visit sailtrainingireland.enthuse.com/celtictide or scan the QR code on Cllr Leonards Facebook page. Around the Districts Christ Church Bray, church of Ireland. Services of Worship for this Sunday the Sixth Sunday after Trinity: 8.30 a.m. Holy Communion; 11 a.m. Morning Worship. The congregation should be aware that all services are live-streamed via churchservices.tv/christchurchbray. Bray Methodist Church Worship for this Sunday: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship with Creche and Sunday School. Bray Presbyterian Church Worship for this Sunday: 11.30 a.m. Sunday Worship. Christian Assembly Church Worship for this Sunday: 10.45 a.m. Morning Worship; 6.30 p.m. Evening Service of Bible teaching, singing, and fellowship. Wednesdays: 8 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible study. Monthly Ladies Meeting: For details see: christianassemblybray.com. Cornerstone Church at the Well Worship this Sunday: 11 a.m. Bray Christian Outreach Free hot meals, Clothes, sleeping bags, toiletries etc, are available in Bray Methodist Church on Sundays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Holy Redeemer Parish The Bray Enniskerry Partnership: Our community that encompasses the churches of Curtlestown, Enniskerry, Glencree, Kilmacanogue, Holy Redeemer, St Peters. Our Lady Queen of Peace, and St Fergals, warmly embraces people of good will across Bray, Enniskerry and beyond. Holy Redeemer Parish: Call 01 2868413. Website: holyredeemerbray.ie; Email office@holyredeemerbray.ie. Mass Times: 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday No Mass on Tuesday. Sunday Masses: 6 p.m. Vigil Mass on Saturday and on Sunday at 10.30 a.m. and 12Noon. To book a Mass, please call into the sacristy before or after our Masses. Parish office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. If you need to contact us, please email office@holyredeemer.ie. Music at Mass on Sundays: 10.30 a.m. Folk Group; midday Gaudium Choir (Mainly Latin Church Music) on the first Sunday of the Month; midday on other Sundays of the Month: Parish Choir (Mainly English Church Music). St Peters Parish, Little Bray St Peters Church Mass Times: Sunday: 9 a.m. (Irish Mass), 11.30 a.m. Holy Days: 11 a.m. First Friday: 11 a.m. Parish office: parish office opening hours are Monday: 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.; Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish Parish Website: queenofpeace.ie. Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30 p.m. on Saturdays and 10.30 a.m. and midday on Sundays. St Fergals Parish, Ballywaltrim Masses Online: For Masses broadcast from other churches go to churchservices.tv/churches or churchservices.tv/.ie. For Live Mass from St Annes Parish, Shankill go to http://stannesparishshankill.com/live-video/; Live Mass from St Brigids Parish, Cabinteely, cabinteelyparish.ie/parish-services/web-cam/; live Mass from St Marys, Popes Quay, Cork: dominicanscork.ie/live-Mass/; EWTN, the Catholic can be viewed on Sky 588 and on Virgin Media 815; EWTN LIVE on the web: ewtnireland.com/watch-live/; HSE Website: hse.ie/eng/. Mass Times: Mass times are 9.30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. No morning Mass on Thursdays and Saturdays. Saturday: 7 p.m. Vigil Mass; Sunday: 8 a.m. and 10.30 a.m. Irish Railway Record Society (Co. Wicklow members) Bray and North Wicklow readers interested in joining the Irish Railway Record Society which holds lectures on various aspects of Irelands railway history and heritage, can obtain a membership application form by post (SAE appreciated) from the Dublin Area Representative, The Irish Railway Record Society, Hueston Station Dublin eight, or by emailing: memberhip@irrs.ie. Members and researchers are asked to note that the Societys library will be closed next Tuesday night and on all the Tuesday nights in August, re-opening on Tuesday nights in September and October. Bray Library Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday till 8.30 p.m. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website. The library is involved in Imbolc, the Community Seed Arc programme, where one can get seeds for a variety of plants and after they flower, donate seeds from them for the programme. As always, you can have seeds sent to your local Wicklow Library branch by emailing your branch and requesting up to four packets. English Conversation Classes take place in the library every Monday (except Bank Holiday Mondays) from 11 a.m. to midday the next meeting of the Bray Library Crime Book Club takes place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12, check in branch for the book being discussed. Bray Library Comic Book Club for ages nine to 11 meets for one hour each morning at 10 a.m. from Monday, August 11, to Friday, August 15, To book a place email braylib@wicklowcoco.ie. Ballywaltrim Library Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday. The library can be contacted at 01 2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website. Borrowers can renew their books online at any time. Parents and carers of children are reminded that library staff cannot supervise your children so you must stay with your children at all times for their safety and other library users. Adult Scrabble takes place every Monday from 3 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. no booking is required. Tummy-Time for Babies takes place every Monday from10.30 a.m. to midday no booking required. FAST Fun Accessible Sensory Toys: our new collection of sensory toys is available to borrow by all adult Wicklow County Council Library patrons. The FAST catalogue can be accessed online or in the library and can be requested by email, telephone call or in person. The library is involved in Imbolc, the Community Seed Arc programme, where one can get seeds for a variety of plants and after they flower, donate seeds from them for the programme. As always, you can have seeds sent to your local Wicklow Library branch by emailing your branch and requesting up to four packets. Bray Cualann Historical Society. Next Wednesday (July 30) Brian White, chairman of the Bray Cualann Historical Society, the local history society for Bray and North Wicklow, will gives visitors from Dublin, California, with which Brays is twinned, a guided tour of the Town Hall at 8 p.m. and a short talk about Bray and its American Connections. For Heritage Week 2025, by kind permission of the Bray Municipal District, Brian White will give guided tours on The Windows of the Town Hall as part of the Societys contribution to Heritage Week 2025, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20, and at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, Due to a restriction on the number who can take part in each visit, the Mermaid Theatre has agreed to manage a booking system and those members and non-members wishing to take part must book with the Mermaid Theatre call 01 272 4030 or via mermaidartscentre.ie. There is no booking fee but booking is essential to these tours In1880 Lord Meath presented the people of Bray and the Bray Township Commissioners with a Town Hall and Market Place at a cost of nearly 7000. The Town Hall contains 30 stained glass windows which trace the history of the Brabazon Family from 1120 to 1884. In the meantime events taking place in the coming week include: today (Wednesday) there is a free guided tour of Collecting Irelands History; Libraries and the recovery of lost records exhibition at 1.10 p.m. in the Royal Irish Academy, 19 Dawson Street, Dublin two. Admission is free but advance booking is required via library. Info@ria.ie. Advancing to Thursday, July 31, William OBrien will present Speranza and Son: Jane and Oscar Wilde, drawing room rebels at 6.30 p.m. in Dalkey Library, Castle Street, Dalkey, Co. Dublin. Admission is free but booking is required call 01 2855277 or email dalkeylib@dlrcoco.ie. New Book from Rob Goodbody Rathmines Library was the venue last Thursday night for the launch by Senator Michael McDowell of the latest book from local historian Rob Goodbody titled Dublins Industrial Heritage: From Sandymount Strand to Crumlin Road which is the first in a three-volume series of richly illustrated books written for the general reader. Unpacking the history of Dublins industrial heritage down through the ages, each book covers a specific geographical area: Volume I, Dublin South-East; Volume II, Dublin South-West; Volume III, North Dublin city and suburbs. The series builds on the Dublin City Industrial Heritage Record, a desktop and fieldwork survey compiled by Dublin City Council between 2006 and 2009 (now available on heritagemaps.ie) with new research by the author. Industrial Heritage embraces the surviving evidence of societys social, economic and technological development from the onset of industrialisation to the recent past. It shows how people have responded to technological change and to cycles of industrial growth and decline over time. This volume by Rob Goodbody covers the industrial heritage of the South-East area of Dublin, exploring the now radically transformed south Docklands and key sites along the Dodder, the Poddle and Grand Canal, and sites in the south city centre, Ringsend, Sandymount, the Poolbeg Peninsula, Ballsbridge, Rathmines, Ranelagh, Milltown and Dartry, Clonskeagh and Harolds Cross. Rob Goodbody, who is the current Hon. President of the Rathmichael Historical Society, is a building historian with a background in historical geography, geology, local history and building conservation. He was a founder member of both the Mining Heritage Trust of Ireland and the Industrial Heritage Association of Ireland. Over the years he has led many walks to the lead workings at Ballycorus, Glendalough and Glendasan and has delivered lectures to local interest groups, mining heritage organisations, and conferences. Irish Girl Guides There is a very large IGG presence in Bray and Enniskerry, with waiting lists for all groups. Leaders are urgently needed, so if you are interested in working with young children and have some spare time on a Monday, Thursday, or Friday evening, do get in touch. If you are interested in your daughter joining Ladybirds or Brownies do get in touch as spaces sometimes become available for September. (Ladybirds ages 5-7; Brownies ages seven 10; Guides and Senior Branch 10-plus) email belmontbrowniesbray@gmail.com. Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Club On Tuesday the Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Club had twenty eight members on the seafront enjoying beach games organised by leader Mike. Meantime leader Paul was being interviewed for a large article in the Bray People for a near future issue. Bray Divers Sub-aqua club Bray Divers Sub-aqua club based in Greystones Harbour are having a great season underwater at the present. Underwater visibility is in excess of eight metres and the fish life variety is absolutely fantastic especially in the shallow places around Greystones. The club is preparing to recruit up to 10 new members starting on October. Persons joining on that date will get three months extra free membership. Call Albert at 087 6756439 for details. The Beach Festival on Bray Seafront is a huge attraction for visitors and locals, and especially businesses. It is a pity that all the old shelters are not in good repair, and that the Cliff Walk is not open. And there you have it, were the straight-up, knockout words used to announce the completion of the mural to two local Bray heroes, Katie Taylor and Daina Moorehouse, which now adorns the wall of Ballywaltrim Community Centre in Bray. The artwork, painted by local artist Adam J Connors, while a fitting homage to two of Brays sporting legends, is also a real testament to the collective community spirit that prevails in the neighbourhood. With the slogan placed between the two boxers, When Dreams Become Reality, it will have a lasting impact, fitting once again, given it wasnt the easiest of battles for this particular dream to become a reality either. There were a lot of driving forces behind it, from the inspiration of Paul Treacy, manager of the community centre, to the dogged perseverance of local councillor Dermot OBrien, as well as Ashling Smith (Pilates with Ash), who spearheaded the fundraising drive. Even the crew at Chadwicks in Bray deserves a mention for sponsoring the use of the scissor lift which helped hoist Adam to great heights to complete the work. Of course, none of it would have been possible without the wishes of the two subjects, who gave it a wholesome blessing and a seal of approval. "Its complete, Daina posted on the Facebook page. Absolutely delighted what an honour to be beside the legend herself, big thank you to Connect Ballywaltrim South Bray. The genesis for the idea of the mural goes back to last year, when the community held a homecoming event for Daina after the Paris Olympics. Ashling expressed an interest in her business community sponsoring the project, and, as Paul explained, we roped Adam in and we got on to Councillor Daisy and stakeholders and it's taken almost a year to get over the line. "But we finally got there, he said. So the idea is that two Olympians came from the same community, and it was just a way of kind of putting it out there and celebrating their achievements, because they do inspire young people in the area. And it's a nice way to celebrate that. Once permission was granted by the council in June, it was decided that a competition should be opened to involve the young people in the community in devising a suitable slogan. The winner, a member of the youth project, was Darcy Crinnion, who came up with the befitting words: When Dreams Become Reality. Paul said everyone has been thrilled with the result. It was a no-brainer for Ashling, when she offered to take over the fundraising side of the project. "I started out my business in Ballywatrim Community Centre, she said. They've always been really great to me. So I approached Paul and said I'd be interested. And I went back to my Pilates community and told them what was happening and would they be in. And it was a resounding yes from everybody, she said. "They wanted to support it. So over the long winter, through planning applications etc, we waited and waited and waited. And when we got the go-ahead, the money just came pouring in for us. But at no stage was it a given. Similar projects in other areas, I believe, have been refused. But Daisy O'Brien was a real driving force behind getting this through. So it was an absolute privilege to be able to support this for our two Olympic athletes. It was also a privilege for the man on the scissor lift, Adam J Connors, who said: Such an honour to paint a mural of these two Bray legends in their own neighbourhood. Got to spend a couple of weeks in the area, met the nicest people and one thing is for sure, every single person there has so much love for them. A number of cases were heard before Bray District Court and Wicklow Disctrict Court recently. A man charged with trespassing followed a young woman and had planned to do something malicious, the court has heard. Trespasser given jail time Rudolph Krok (25) of The Simon Community, Dundalk, Co Louth pleaded not guilty with the judges intervention after Mr Krok refused to enter a plea to a charge of trespassing. The incident took place at Ballywaltrim Lodge, Killarney Road, Bray, Co Wicklow. The court heard Mr Krok stalked a young girl from Dealz in Bray to her home at Ballywaltrim Lodge, Killarney Road, Bray, Co Wicklow, when the young lady got to her home, she ran into her home and her father came outside to meet Mr Krok outside of the driveway of the property. Mr Traynor told the court that he didnt look to me like he had good intentions. Mr Traynor confronted the man, and he slowly made his way up the driveway and fled the scene, while the incident was arising Ms Traynor, the victims mother, had called the police. The gardai apprehended Mr Krok a short distance from the scene of the incident. Krok made no comment when charged. Judge David Kennedy heard that the defendant has not engaged with a psychiatric evaluation order by the court and refused to make any comment. Judge Kennedy sentenced Mr Krok to the maximum sentence of 11 months imprisonment. Mr Kroks reply to his sentence was when am I getting out. Woman fined for stolen diesel A woman has been fined for stealing from a service station in Bray. Margaret McCarthy (48) of 5 Aughmore Lane Halting Site, Shankill, Dublin, appeared before the court in relation to a theft, which occurred on September 8, 2024 at Circle K Beechwood, Dublin Road, Bray. The court heard the defendant stole fuel worth 20.12. Her solicitor said McCarthy was under serious financial pressure and struggling to support her children. She later reimbursed the garage for the stolen diesel. The judge imposed a 500 fine with a period of five months to pay. Drug charges adjourned till later date A 19-year-old man has appeared before Bray District Court charged with multiple drug offences. Adam Travers (19), of 28 Keepers Road, Drimnagh appeared in connection with his arrest on June 27, 2024, at Farrenkelly Road, Greystones. He is facing two charges of possession of drugs for the sale or supply, involving cocaine and cannabis, and two other charges of simple possession. The court heard that Travers has struggled to engage with the probation service, his solicitor told the court the accused had recently started a new job but there was some confusion about the start date. Judge David Kennedy expressed scepticism about Travers commitment and character warning that any messing around from Mr Travers and I will impose a sentence. The matter was adjourned until October 20. Man flees from car wreck A Wicklow man was disqualified from driving for two years after fleeing the scene of the incident. Joseph OBrein (25), of Bridge Cottage, Woodstock Road, Newtownmountkennedy, appeared before the court in relation to four motoring offences which occurred in Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow on June 7, 2021. These included two counts of hit and run, one for failing to remain at the scene and another for failing to give information, along with dangerous driving and failure to report the incident. The court heard OBrein, now four years older, is now married with three young children and runs a successful landscaping business. His solicitor said he was eager to avoid a conviction and move on with his life. Judge David Kennedy imposed a 250 fine and disqualified him from driving for two years. Dangerous driving A bench warrant was issued for a Wicklow woman wanted on numerous driving charges. Amy Savage (20) of 97 Ashwood, Roundwood, Co Wicklow, failed to appear in front of Bray District Court on various driving charges. On January 22, 2024 at junction 18 of the M11 in Wicklow, Ms Savage failed to give appropriate information and on September 7, 2024 at Fitzwilliam Road, Ballynerrin Lower, Wicklow, Ms Savage was charged with another four offences, including non-display of insurance disc and failure to display NCT. Judge David Kennedy heard that this wasnt the first warrant to be ignored by Ms Savage. He noted Ms Savages absence and issued a bench warrant. Overstayed visa A Brazilian woman was arrested after overstaying her visa unlawfully. Amanda Souza (29) with an address at 41 Seapoint Court, Bray, Co Wicklow appeared before Bray District Court charged with remaining in the state after her date of departure, Ms Souzas solicitor told the court that his client had flights booked and planned to return to Brazil on August 18. Judge David Kennedy ordered Ms Souza to appear again at Bray District Court on September 15. Drunk man wants to travel A 23-year-old man has avoided a criminal conviction after a public order offence in Bray. Callum Kennedy, of 12 St Killians Crescent, Bray, Co Wicklow, appeared before Wicklow District Court charged with public intoxication and threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace. The offence occurred on May 25, 2025, on Strand Road, Bray, where Kennedy was arrested by gardai after reports of aggressive behaviour in a public area. The court heard that Kennedy was heavily intoxicated at the time but has since expressed remorse for his actions and said that it would never happen again. Mr Kennedys solicitor told the court her client had previously worked in Australia and wanted to return soon, so wanted no criminal conviction as it would hamper his chances of obtaining a future visa. He offered to compensate the state as an alternative to conviction. Judge David Kennedy declined an application for legal aid but accepted his willingness to take responsibility. The judge ordered Kennedy to pay 1,200 by September 1 and indicated that a conviction would not be recorded if the sum was paid in full. Mum charged with theft A Wexford mother who stole over 60 worth of groceries and alcohol has been spared jail. Amy Gavin (32), of Newbridge, Camolin, Gorey, Co Wexford, appeared before Wicklow District court, where she pleaded guilty to a charge of theft from Pettitts Supermarket, Wexford Road, Arklow. The court heard that on the June 14, 2022, Gavin stole items valued at 62.10, including alcohol, from the supermarket. Judge David Kennedy was told that Ms Gavins kids are currently in care and her ex-partners alcohol issues lead to her shoplifting. Her solicitor said she was willing to pay compensation and had no excuse for her action, describing the offence as regrettable. The judge imposed a 10-month suspended sentence and a 500 fine, warning Gavin that a custodial sentence would be imposed if she comes before the court again. Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme Indias civil aviation minister has criticised western media outlets for attributing blame in the Air India flight AI171 crash before the conclusion of an official investigation, calling such speculation premature and driven by vested interests. Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu expressed full confidence in Indias Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is leading the probe into the June 12 crash in Ahmedabad that killed 260 people, making it the deadliest Indian aviation disaster in four decades. The comments come ahead of Indian prime minister Narendra Modis trip to the UK. He will be in London today and tomorrow where he is slated to meet his British counterpart, Keir Starmer. The aircraft crashed into a medical college hostel in a residential area of Ahmedabad. Among the dead, 52 were British nationals. The sole survivor was a British man, Vishwash Kumar Ramesh. AAIB has made an appeal to all, especially western media houses, which may have a vested interest in the kind of articles they are trying to publish. I believe in AAIB. I believe in the work that they are doing, he said, according to the Indian Express. The minister commended the AAIB for decoding the aircrafts black box domestically, describing it as a huge success, as previous incidents typically required the data to be sent abroad for analysis. Mr Kinjarapus remarks came days after the AAIB publicly urged both the media and the public to refrain from spreading premature narratives about the crash. Its director general, GVG Yugandhar, noted that the preliminary report aimed only to present early findings and did not apportion blame. He also criticised irresponsible reporting by international media, accusing them of selectively using unverified information to suggest pilot error. The preliminary report, released on July 12, revealed that both fuel control switches of the Boeing 787-8s engines moved from run to cut off within one second, moments after take-off, leading to an immediate loss of power. The cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking the other why the fuel was cut off, to which the second replied that he had not done so. The document does not state who, if anyone, moved the switches, using the neutral term transitioned and offering no conclusions on intent or fault. It also notes no technical fault in the aircraft. However, some international reports implied pilot error, prompting backlash from Indias aviation fraternity. We will never forgive this monster family of woman savagely murdered by husband as she pushed their baby son in pram Habibur Masum jailed for life after he stabbed Kulsuma Akter at least 25 times and cut her throat. Husband who killed wife in knife attack as she pushed pram jailed for life Samuel Montgomery Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 A mother who was murdered by her husband as she pushed their baby in a pram in West Yorkshire had been able to predict her own death, a judge has said. Dominique Pelicot, the French man jailed last year for drugging and raping his wife, could avoid prosecution for a separate murder due to lost evidence, it has emerged. Police officers are not able to find clothes found at the scene of the murder of 23-year-old estate agent Sophie Narme, who was raped and strangled in 1991, according to Paris Match. Putin wants us to panic. How Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukraine Aerial attacks on Ukraine now often break records, with 741 in one day French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot looks at a Ukrainian-made Bulava unmanned aerial system in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photo: Reuters Bryony Gooch UK Independent Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Russias aerial strikes on Ukraine have massively increased since June, with intense peaks. Figures show that the six most concentrated attacks have taken place in the past month. Putin accused of stalling talks to capture more land Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his offer to meet with Russias Vladimir Putin and negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, but hopes of progress were low as delegations prepared to hold another round of talks. Hope of a new era for Syria shattered as sectarian conflict continues in southern city of Sweida The death toll is still climbing amid ongoing clashes between Druze militia and Bedouin tribes Bedouin fighters in the village of Busra al-Harir, north-west of Sweida city. Photo: AP Bel Trew UK Independent Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 Just a few months into the tentative rebirth of a new Syria, a bloody sectarian conflict is once again raging in the volatile southern borderlands. War now threatens to tip the country over the edge and spill into an already unstable region. Palestinian mother Alaa Al-Najjar mourns her three-month-old baby Yehia, who died due to malnutrition amid a hunger crisis, according to medics, at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip July 20, 2025. REUTERS/Hatem Khaled More than 100 largely aid and rights groups on Wednesday called for governments to take action as hunger spreads in Gaza, including by demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the lifting of all restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid. In a statement signed by 111 organizations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Refugees International, the groups warned that mass starvation was spreading across the enclave even as tons of food, clean water, medical supplies and other items sit untouched just outside Gaza as humanitarian organizations are blocked from accessing or delivering them. Cattleman accused of swindling investors in ghost cows ruse A class action lawsuit is underway against three financial institutions for enabling the scheme Brian McClain allegedly inflated the number of cattle he had, and engaged investors in a Ponzi scheme. Photo: Getty Graig Graziosi UK Independent Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 06:30 A Kentucky cattleman allegedly conned dozens of investors out of $100m (85m) with promises of non-existent ghost cattle and the profits from their slaughter before taking his own life. EU and US move toward trade deal that could include a 15pc baseline tariff on EU goods with possible exemptions White House quiet on report of possible EU deal EU plans 93bn in counter-tariffs if no deal reached Trump seeks more trade deals before next week's deadline US Treasury cites Japan's unique financing for lower auto tariffs US, China trade negotiators to speak next week US president Donald Trump. Photo: AP Philip Blenkinsop and Trevor Hunnicutt Reuters Wed 23 Jul 2025 at 22:23 The European Union and the US are moving toward a trade deal that could include a 15pc US baseline tariff on EU goods and possible exemptions, two European diplomats said on Wednesday, potentially moving president Donald Trump closer to another major trade agreement on the heels of the one he just unveiled with Japan. How Irish orphan Nicholas Rossi created lies of a childhood in Dublin and faked his own death, but is finally facing justice in the US Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students in the US who were murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as his sentencing hearing took place. What now after your Leaving Cert results? Heres how to plan your next steps whether you got top points or not Indias PLI Schemes Clears 806 Projects, Drives US$20 Billion in Investment Electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles lead Indias Production Linked Incentive (PLI) -backed manufacturing push, with 806 projects and US$2.4 billion in incentives disbursed. As of July 21, 2025, India has approved a total of 806 applications under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, covering 14 strategic sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, telecom, textiles, and automobiles. The PLI scheme was first announced in 2021 with a total outlay of INR 1.97 trillion (US$22.8 billion). It is designed to strengthen Indias industrial base and reduce import dependency by incentivizing companies that show credible investments and output. Investment realization and employment generation According to the Minister of State (MoS) for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, investments worth INR 1.76 trillion (US$20.3 billion) have been realized across 14 sectors by March 2025. These projects collectively generated over INR 16.5 trillion (US$190.9 billion) in production and sales output. It has also boosted employment, with more than 1.2 million direct and indirect jobs generated across participating sectors. The pharma sector turns into a net exporter of bulk drugs The pharmaceutical industry has leveraged the PLI scheme to its advantage, building self-reliance in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and drug manufacturing. India, which was a net importer of bulk drugs worth INR 19.3 billion (approximately US$223.3 million) in FY 2021-22, transitioned to a net exporter, recording INR 22.8 billion (approximately US$263.9 million) in exports by FY 2024-25. According to the Commerce Ministers reply in Parliament, pharmaceutical sales under this PLI scheme have exceeded INR 2.66 trillion (approximately US$30.7 billion) over the first three years, including exports worth INR 1.7 trillion (approximately US$19.6 billion). Surge in mobile manufacturing and exports The electronics manufacturing sector, a flagship focus of the PLI initiative, has also recorded sharp gains. In the mobile device manufacturing segment, production has increased by approximately 146 percent, rising from INR 2.13 trillion (US$24.6 billion) in FY 2020-21 to INR 5.25 trillion (US$60.7 billion) in FY 2024-25. Additionally, mobile phone exports have risen by almost eight times, growing from INR 228.70 billion (US$2.6 billion) in FY 2020-21 to INR 2 trillion (US$23.1 billion) in FY 2024-25. See also: India Manufacturing Tracker 2025 Indias textile exports see moderate expansion In textiles, export growth has been steadier but positive. As of March 2025, man-made fiber (MMF) exports reached US$6 billion in FY 2024-25, up from US$5.7 billion the previous year. Technical textile exports have also risen, increasing to US$3.36 billion from US$2.99 billion over the same period. The growth has been slower than in other sectors due to competition from other cost-competitive exporters like Bangladesh and Vietnam. PLI scheme incentives disbursed across 14 sectors Until June 2025, a cumulative incentive amount of INR 215.34 billion (US$2.4 billion) has been disbursed under the PLI schemes. These disbursements are tied to verifiable output milestones and capital deployment. The Union Budget for FY 202526 has also earmarked continued funding across the active PLI sectors. PLI scheme Budget estimates FY 2025-26 (US$ million) Electronics manufacturing and Information Technology (IT) hardware 1,041.7 Automobiles and auto components 326.2 Pharmaceuticals 28.3 Textile 132.8 White goods (ACs and LED lights) 51.4 Specialty steel 35.3 National Program on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery storage 18.0 Source: PIB In brief The PLI scheme has moved well beyond its pilot stage, with high participation across over 14 important sectors. It has seen over US$21 billion in realized investment and credible progress in production and exports. Electronics manufacturing under the PLI scheme has more than doubled in four years, and mobile exports have increased over eightfold. The pharmaceutical sector has shifted from importing bulk drugs to exporting them. (US$1 = INR 86.39) Read more: India Updates Specialty Steel PLI Scheme to Drive Investments Bryan Kohlberger murdered four people in November Wow they are really given it to this loser (Bryan Kohberger), as he sits. To hear families impacted by their murder. Kaylees sister gave it to him good. pic.twitter.com/DY4pBy3xJ1 Do that whats right (@Debbie340961744) July 23, 2025 Bryan Kohlberger pled guilty to avoid the death penalty Bryan Kohberger took more than 4 innocent lives. He forever destroyed their loved ones lives too. He took their innocence. He took their outlook on the world. He took their inner peace. He took their sense of safety. He took their best friends. May he suffer. Brie (@briesies89) July 23, 2025 For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Youre basic. said the sister of Kaylee Goncalves to Bryan Kohlberger, the University of Idaho murderer who killed four students, three of them female, in their sleep. Kohlbergers sentencing hearing occurred on July 23, after hed taken a guilty plea to all charges in exchange for avoiding the death penalty.Kaylee Goncalves was one of the women murdered at Bryan Kohlbergers hands, and her sister and mother had nothing nice to say about the culprit in their victim impact statements. Kohlberger was called a clown and a joke, with Kaylees mother going as far as openly hoping that Kohlberger had a hard time in prison, where hed be forgotten, discarded, used and erased.Bryan Kohlberger received additionally condemnation from Kaylees grandmother, who accused the convicted killer of destroying the family in the cloak of darkness, pointing out that the survivors of Kaylees family would be suffering their own life sentence. Kaylees other grandmother stated that Bryan didnt take Kaylees light, but spread it into the world.A recurring sentiment among the impact statements delivered was a sense of regret that Bryan Kohlberger would not be put to death.Bryan Kohlberger is a former graduate student of Criminal Justice at the University of Idaho.On November 13, 2022, he infiltrated a rental house near the university campus, and killed all the four female students inside, reportedly in their sleep. University of Idahos students were tipped off that something had gone wrong when shelter in place text alerts began to circulate. The victims that were stabbed by Bryan Kohlberger were Maidson Morgen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves and Ethan Chapin.Bryan Kohlberger is alleged to have used his knowledge of forensics to cover up for his crimes by deep cleaning his car. Kohlberger initially declined to say anything following his arrest and arraignment, causing him to plead not guilty by default.Kohlberger would change his plea to guilty, however, when evidence against him began to mount, with a knife sheath with his DNA being found at his home, and video evidence placing his car at the scene. As part of the plea deal, Kohlberger will face four life sentences and waive his right to an appeal. The United States embassy threatens visa revocation If you are arrested for assault, domestic violence, or other crimes while in the United States, your U.S. visa may be revoked, and you may be ineligible for future U.S. visas. A visa is a privilege, not a right one that can be revoked if you break the law. pic.twitter.com/PatOwfuLHT U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) July 22, 2025 Donald Trumps immigration crackdown dogged by due process concerns NBC News: The 5th Amendment says everyone deserves due process Donald Trump: It might say that, but if you're talking about that, then we'd have to have a million or two million or three million trials. @atruparpic.twitter.com/n86jOkqTtB The Intellectualist (@highbrow_nobrow) July 12, 2025 For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. The United States embassy in India has issued a stark warning regarding the countrys visa conditions on its X account. The embassy warns that anyone arrested for violent crimes such as assault or domestic abuse could have their visa revoked immediately and be blacklisted from future visa applications.The embassy closed with the following statement: A visa is a privilege, not a right one that can be revoked if you break the law."This warning comes on the heels of the Donald Trump administrations increasingly hardline stances on immigration, which have been exemplified by the incredibly contentious mass deportation program that is currently ongoing. The Embassy had issued another warning earlier this month after an Indian immigrant was arrested for shoplifting at Target.The US Embassys statement makes the dire consequences of violating visa conditions incredibly clear.Historically, United States immigrants have been held to high standards when it comes to the consequences of breaking the law. These crimes dont just include the serious, violent offences such as domestic violence and assault that are mentioned in the Embassys statement. Other crimes such as larceny, embezzlement, robbery and burglary can and have led to serious consequences faced by United States immigrants.Donald Trumps crackdown on immigrants has come under severe scrutiny, however, because of allegations that the President has not followed due process when detaining and deporting many of the migrants that are being rounded up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).Donald Trumps mass deportation operation, which is being managed by Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller, as well as Border Czar Tom Homan, has apprehended and deported thousands of immigrants, and even alleged United States citizens, out of the country.Many of these detainees have wound up in detention centers such as CECOT or the Terrorism Confinement Center in El Salvador. Donald Trumps approach to deterring immigration been sharply criticized by his opponents, who accuse him of violating due process and punishing innocent people with no criminal record. Anti-ICE protests led to a massive flashpoint in Los Angeles in June 2025, where the National Guard and United States Marines were eventually mobilized to quell he crowds. The India-UK free trade agreement benefits India's labor-intensive industries #WATCH | London, UK | Speaking on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at the India Global Forum, Union Minister Piyush Goyal says, "It is unfair to call it a giveaway. Indian people add value to the UK economy when they come here..." "This is not something we raised after pic.twitter.com/vTQBzVbSwK ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2025 The India-UK agreement is yet to be ratified by the UK parliament India, UK concludes FTA; An elated UK PM releases video of his telephonic talks with PM Modi. Calls FTA historic pic.twitter.com/dzjB41g6k6 Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 6, 2025 For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Indias Union Cabinet finally approved the countrys free trade agreement with the United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 22. This agreement, formally called the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, will be formally signed by Indias Commerce and Industry minister Piyush Goyal, along with Britains counterpart Jonathan Reynolds on July 24.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will be there to witness the proceedings. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement aims to smoothen out trade hurdles between India and the United Kingdom by imposing a zero-duty regime on Indian exports such as textiles, leather goods and footwear. The United Kingdom will also face reduced tariffs on luxury exports such as Scotch whiskey and premium cars.The free trade agreement that was just approved by Indias Union Cabinet is focused on bolstering Indias most labor-intensive industries. Textiles, leather goods and footwear continue to have high production costs due to the labor-intensive process required to ensure product quality. If the United Kingdom imposes zero import duties on these industries, a whole new market will open up.This trade agreement is part of a wider effort by Narendra Modis government to maximize export opportunities for Indian industries, as well as attract foreign investment. As Indian exports become more profitable and sough-after, Indian enterprises may garner additional funding and investment from foreign parties.Likewise, the reduced tariffs on the UKs luxury goods ensure that the markets of that country open up to a new customer base of wealthy Indians.From 2024 to 2025, the value of Indias exports to the United Kingdom has risen by 12.6% to $14.5 billion. The value of imports India received from the UK grew by 2.3% to $8.6 billion.While Indias cabinet has approved of the bilateral free trade agreement, the United Kingdom has its own process of ratification, which will occur after the signing ceremony on July 24. Due to the Labor partys majority in the parliament, this process seems unlikely to face any hiccups.Aside from the trade agreement on goods and services, India and the United Kingdom have also inked out an agreement on Social Security, known as the Double Contribution Convention. This will allow Indians who have short-term work contracts in the United Kingdom to avoid double contributions to their social security funds, ensuring they keep more of their earnings.The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement has been a long time in the making, with negotiations on the pact concluding on May 6. This agreement is projected to double the value of bilateral trade between the two nations to $120 billion by 2030. OnePlus 15 launch: OnePlus 15 launch timeline in India (Expected) OnePlus 15 expected specifications OnePlus 15 rumour roundup: India launch, price, specs and more to expect ( Image credit : It is rumoured to be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip | Credit: OnePlus ) OnePlus 15 expected price Rs 69,999 Rs 80,000 The onePlus 15 launch timeline leak is stirring excitement in the tech community, with reliable rumours that it will debut alongside the newly tipped Ace 6 series. Expert whispers suggest the OnePlus 15 will arrive powered by the next-gen Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, and accompanied by a 6.78inch flat LTPO AMOLED display, designed to emphasise usability over flash.Leaked details also hint at a bold shift in hardware strategyOnePlus may drop its longtime Hasselblad camera partnership in favour of an in-house image system, while preserving flagship-wide triplelens cameras and fast charging support.As anticipation builds, the OnePlus 15 becomes a thoughtfully designed powerhouse. Read on to discover why this could set a new tone for future OnePlus flagships.As per information provided by Weibo user Digital Chat Station (translated from Chinese), the OnePlus 15 is expected to debut in. This indicates that the smartphone manufacturer from Shenzhen intends to release the successor to the OnePlus 13 almost a year after its introduction in China.A significant change noted by well-known tipster Digital Chat Station is the transition to a flat display moving away from the curved screens in recent OnePlus flagship models. The 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display is anticipated to have a 1.5K resolution, slightly lower than the 2K (QHD+) screen of the OnePlus 13. Nevertheless, the new design includes ultra-slim and symmetrical bezels, similar to the sleek edges found on contemporary iPhones.Although the details of the design are not yet known, initial speculation suggests a slim and minimalist structure. Should OnePlus keep reducing the thickness of its devices with the OnePlus 13 measuring 8.5mm the 15 could be even slimmer without compromising battery size.The device might be powered by Qualcomms rumoured Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, known internally as the SM8850. Benchmarks reveal remarkable performance, with the chip achieving a score of 3.8 million on AnTuTu and offering a 25 per cent enhancement in Geekbench 6 relative to its predecessor. There are also claims that it is constructed using TSMCs 3nm (N3P) process, which offers enhanced efficiency and power. Considering that the OnePlus 13 had configurations with up to 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, it is likely that similar or even higher specifications will be available.In terms of cameras, specifics remain unclear. As per Digital Chat Station, the OnePlus 15 will feature a triple-lens rear camera system with a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens. Nonetheless, another trustworthy source of leaks, Smart Pikachu, has proposed that the periscope lens might be a 200-megapixel sensor. If this is the case, it would represent a huge advance in OnePluss zoom and imaging functions.For its basic version, the OnePlus 13 was introduced for. Although the OnePlus 15 might come with multiple improvements, the price may not increase significantly. Although there are no confirmations, the OnePlus 15 may have a starting price ofWhile it appears probable that OnePlus will launch in China this October as per its usual release cycle, we are still five months away from the official reveal. This allows for ample adjustment of hardware and features before unveiling the final model. A 23-year-old Indian international student, Charanpreet Singh, is recovering in hospital after a horrifying and racially charged attack in central Adelaide that left him unconscious and traumatised. The vicious ambush took place near Kintore Avenue around 9:22 pm on Saturday, July 19, while Singh was out with his wife to see the citys light displays. Indian student left battered in shocking street assault According to reports, five men emerged from another vehicle and allegedly began shouting racial slurs before launching into a violent assault. Singh was punched, stomped, and struck with what appeared to be metal knuckles or sharp weapons. Eyewitnesses and CCTV footage suggest the attackers used racist language, reportedly yelling, F--- off, Indian, before beating him. You can change anything... but not your colour Speaking from his hospital bed, Singh recounted how a petty parking dispute escalated into an attack that seemed fuelled by hate. He shared how helpless he felt hearing the slurs thrown at him before the fists began flying. You can change anything in your body, but you cant change the colours, he said, visibly shaken by the trauma. The brutal assault resulted in multiple facial fractures and suspected brain trauma. Singh was swiftly rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital, where he remains under medical care. His injuries and words have struck a chord across the Indian diaspora in Australia, with many expressing fear and frustration over repeated acts of racial violence. Police launch investigation, one attacker charged South Australia Police responded to the scene shortly before 9:30 pm and confirmed Singh was found with visible facial injuries. A 20-year-old male suspect from Enfield has since been arrested and charged with assault causing harm. Investigations are ongoing, with CCTV footage being examined and appeals made for more witnesses to come forward. Premier Peter Malinauskas publicly condemned the attack, stressing that racism and violence have no place in the state. This kind of behaviour is completely unwelcome, he stated, calling the incident deeply disturbing. A chilling trend of racist attacks on Indians abroad This horrifying incident in Adelaide mirrors another attack the same day in Dublin, Ireland, where an Indian man in his 40s was hospitalised after being assaulted by a group of teenagers hurling false accusations and racist abuse. These incidents have reignited a growing conversation about racial safety for Indians abroad, especially international students. It seems BTS can't catch a break - even when they're not involved, their names are dragged into controversies they never signed up for. In the age of idol survival shows, it's become almost routine for trainees to name-drop BTS, praising them as role models and inspirations. But behind the praise, not all intentions are as pure as they seem. Enter Boys Planet II contestant Peng Jin Yu - a name now sparking outrage across fan communities. The trainee is being slammed for hypocrisy after dancing to Jungkook's hit Seven in a promotional challenge, despite having a history littered with alleged hate against the BTS member and several girl group idols. Fans have branded his move as "performative clout-chasing", accusing him of trying to ride the BTS wave for fame after once throwing stones. What has angered many isn't just the past comments - it's the silence, the lack of accountability, and the sudden switch from hate to idol worship when the cameras are rolling. One thing is clear: the internet doesn't forget - and ARMY definitely won't either. a contestant on Boys Planet Peng Jin Yu, is JK anti who wrote hate comments and was shady against jungkook and gg groups but hes doing JK challenges right now to promote himself anyone who writes malicious messages against fellow idols should not be eligible. @mnetplus pic.twitter.com/nDTqCoftdI jungkook thinker (@97JKZONE) July 22, 2025 About Peng Jin Yu and his hate for BTS Jungkook On June 12, 2025, Peng Jin Yu was introduced as a contestant on Mnet's survival show Boys Planet II, joining as an individual trainee. But it didn't take long for controversy to catch up with him. As his profile began circulating online, so did a wave of resurfaced hate comments - and fans were quick to uncover troubling patterns from his past. Soon after, it was revealed that Peng Jin Yu is a proud BLACKPINK fan, which in itself isn't an issue - K-pop fans are free to love who they love. But what has ignited outrage is that, as a self-proclaimed BLINK, Peng allegedly used his stan account to spread hate against BTS, fueling the long-standing ARMY vs. BLINK fanwar. And it didn't stop there - he also reportedly targeted other female groups in the industry with disturbing remarks. #BOYS2PLANET Peng jin-yu's problematic past : 1. As a Blackpink fan he compared Aespa members to dogs, trended hate hashtags 3. Harrassed Tzuyu for her flag in incident, dragged TWICE for "being Pro Taiwan independence" 3. Called Jungkook a "wild boar", "poor and violent" [+] https://t.co/pMKyWM5pKO 4 JeanXx 4 (@twice_mixx) July 22, 2025 Among the most shocking claims, Peng once compared aespa members to dogs, trended hateful hashtags, and even harassed TWICE's Tzuyu over the Taiwan flag controversy - accusing the group of "promoting Taiwanese independence." But perhaps most incendiary of all were his comments about BTS' Jungkook. Fans dug up old posts where Peng allegedly called Jungkook a "wild boar," "poor," and "violent." He also reportedly spread false dating rumours, claiming Jungkook should "bow down to Lisa." Has Peng Jin Yu apologized? Technically - yes. But fans aren't buying it. What's being called an "apology" came in the form of a direct message to a fan who confronted him. The message read: "Babe calm down. I havent been in fandom for a while. TBH I dragged so many people but didnt really hate anyone. Wasnt it idols being dragged into fanwars between fans? If you hate my actions, I apologize, ok?" the apology in question, no wonder theyre not spreading it https://t.co/Y7sQWoKZYN pic.twitter.com/dyZkVVqfXg Moz (@itzaboutime) July 23, 2025 The tone struck many as dismissive, vague, and insincere - not a real apology, but a casual brush-off of serious allegations. ARMY reacts What's made the situation worse is Peng Jin Yu's recent participation in TikTok dance challenges to Jungkooks songs like Seven - despite his past remarks. The move has been slammed by fans as shameless, hypocritical, and blatantly opportunistic. - Seven (jungkook) - deja vu (tomorrow x together) pic.twitter.com/Xc4PBs8hyo PENG JINYU GLOBAL (@PengJinYuGlobal) June 11, 2025 ARMY and other K-pop fans have since taken to social media, demanding accountability and questioning how someone with such a history can suddenly act like a supporter. As backlash intensifies, one question looms large: How far will some go for fame - and how long will fandoms stay silent? For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here. Back in 2019, BTS were at the height of their global dominance, sweeping awards left and right - almost effortlessly. But despite their reign, competition within the K-pop world remained fierce, and not every fan was thrilled with the results. Fast forward to today, a new fanwar has erupted over the 'Best Dance Performance - Male Group' award from the 2019 MAMA Awards, which BTS won for their smash hit Boy With Luv featuring Halsey. SEVENTEEN, who were also nominated that year for their powerful track Fear, had their fans - Carats - feeling their group was unfairly "robbed" of the title. Tensions have now resurfaced after an Instagram post revisiting the debate went viral. What ignited the flames further? SEVENTEEN's Hoshi, leader of the group's performance team, liked the post - sparking a fresh clash between ARMY and Carats across social media. BTS winning the Best Dance Performance Male Group award at the 2019 MAMA Awards pic.twitter.com/6Y0ubt5yYH archive 93 (@mygrchive) July 22, 2025 SEVENTEEN's Hoshi likes an Instagram video Hoshi recently liked a video post that read: "Never forget SVT's performance 'Hit' at the 2019 MAMA, right after they lost the 'Best Dance Performance' award." On the surface, it looked like a nostalgic nod to his group's performance - but the comments underneath the post told a different story. Carats were seen claiming BTS didn't deserve the win that year, suggesting they only won because of their popularity. That, paired with Hoshi's like added fuel to the fire. A screenshot of Hoshi's like was shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), with one viral post reading, "He's about to enlist so he just doesn't gaf anymore," racking up over 22,000 likes. The drama had officially begun - especially since many ARMYs hadn't even seen the original video until the screenshot started spreading. SEVENTEEN's Hoshi likes an Instagram video. Credit: X Did Hoshi really throw shade at BTS? It's all speculation, but ARMY believe Hoshi's like may have been a subtle jab at BTS, especially given the years-long debate over the 2019 award. Carats, however, insist it was innocent. Some said he may have simply appreciated his group's performance, while others pointed out the caption was in English - implying he might not have understood the post's tone or the fan commentary that followed. begging everyone to put themselves in hoshi's place. a normal person who doest gaf about fanwars liking a video of his group's dance performance with a caption saying they fucking killed it on stage even after losing the award for dance IM BEGGING HIS FANS' VIEWS ARE NOT HIS OWN hoshi misser (@hoshkoo) July 22, 2025 Still, ARMYs pushed back, saying even if Hoshi didn't intend to start anything, the tone of the post - and especially the comments beneath it -clearly suggested that BTS didn't deserve the win. That was enough to reopen old wounds. Carats knew that Hoshi was acting shady and they approved of it by giving the tweet 22K likes. They thought he was funny and real. I saw the comments But after we knew about it, they started creating excuses for him because they realized how bitter and unprofessional he looked pic.twitter.com/TmhTD331FZ J7K (@_here4jk) July 22, 2025 ARMY vs Carats: A fanwar reignites Soon, the situation spiraled. As the screenshots went viral, the original Instagram post and the X tweet were both deleted - possibly an attempt to cool the fire. But the damage was already done. What started as a like turned into a full-on fanwar, with Hoshi caught in the middle. Whether it was a genuine mistake or quiet shade remains unknown - but speculation have been running wild, and K-pop Twitter is once again divided. Both sides have shared their own narrative with ARMY being loud on why Boy With Luv deserved the award and won it on merit. That's how that one came to post "Drink responsibly" for an endorsement during the height of Yoongi's hate train and his fandom turned it into Yoongi shade... pic.twitter.com/nOhOiMr431 Wotteo's Bestie is living for Spring 2026 (@Wotteosbestie) July 22, 2025 They already are (Ss not Mine) https://t.co/bIxYsZWUiv pic.twitter.com/A2eFfKQrUt ruby (@3_FOR875) July 22, 2025 More about BTS and SEVENTEEN military enlistment While all seven BTS members - Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook - have completed their mandatory military service and were discharged by July 2025, SEVENTEEN is still in the process of enlisting, with members serving one by one. The group's leader and eldest member, S.Coups, has been officially exempted from military duty due to health reasons. Jeonghan was the first among SEVENTEEN to enlist, beginning his service on September 26, 2024. Wonwoo followed on April 3, 2025. Up next are Hoshi and Woozi, who are both scheduled to begin their service in September 2025. Woozi will enlist on September 15, followed by Hoshi on September 16. Before heading off, the duo will take part in their final official activities, including a fan concert and a video call fan signing event to bid farewell to fans. As for the rest of the group, Joshua is exempt from military service due to his U.S. citizenship, while Jun and The8 are also not required to enlist, as they hold Chinese citizenship. DK is expected to enlist before turning 30 on February 18, 2027. Mingyu must do so by April 6, 2027, while Seungkwan's deadline falls before his 30th birthday on January 16, 2028. Dino, the youngest Korean member, must enlist by February 11, 2029. Vernon, though born in the United States, holds dual citizenship including South Korean nationality, which requires him to serve. He must enlist by February 18, 2028, before he turns 30. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here. Omniscient Reader: The Prophet, the much-awaited live-action adaptation of the hit web novel Omniscient Readers Viewpoint, premiered in South Korea on July 23. Directed by Kim Byung-woo and based on the best-selling story by Sing Shong, the film stars a powerhouse cast, including Lee Min Ho, Ahn Hyo Seop, Chae Soo Bin, Shin Seung Ho, Nana, and BLACKPINK's Jisoo. With a fan-favourite story and some of the industrys most popular names attached, many hoped this would finally be the live-action adaptation that did justice to the source material. Unfortunately, early viewer reactions, particularly from the fans of the webtoon, suggest otherwise. What is Omniscient Reader: The Prophet about? The film follows Kim Dokja (played by Lee Min Ho), a seemingly ordinary man who finds himself living inside the world of a web novel hes been reading for years. In a world where readers become players and scenarios determine survival, Dokja must use his knowledge of the novel to outsmart deadly challenges and navigate a universe controlled by godlike constellations. Its a story of survival, fate, and morality, packed with twists and layered characters. On paper, it sounds like a thrilling cinematic experience. But fans of the original material are feeling let down by how it was adapted for the big screen. Fans of Omniscient Readers Viewpoint react: They butchered it (Spoilers Ahead!) The films release triggered a flood of reactions online, especially from long-time readers of the original web novel. The Reddit community dedicated to Omniscient Readers Viewpoint has now become a space where fans are voicing their frustration, disappointment, and confusion over the films many unexpected changes. One Reddit user wrote a detailed review of the live adaptation, writing, They butchered it. So bad it will give you brain damage from watching it. All your fears about live action? Justified. The user also pointed out major character shifts. Dokja, originally portrayed as cunning and morally grey, is now just a nice guy. His manipulative streak, a key part of his arc, is completely erased. The list of missing elements from the source material is long, as shared by the fan, who said, no omniscient readers viewpoint ability, no fourth wall, and no bookmark skill. They also noticed missing characters and lore, oversimplified plotlines, and a final boss battle that felt completely off-tone. I dont think the director even read the source material, the viewer wrote. He missed the point and somehow turned the central theme into teamwork. Another Redditor said, They made it extremely short, ending it by the third scenario. I expected at least the Theatre Dungeon. This isnt it. Multiple viewers expressed their frustration at the film ignoring iconic moments, changing character dynamics, and turning deep lore into a more surface-level fantasy flick. Some even questioned how much of the original story was actually read by the creators. Global release dates for Omniscient Reader: The Prophet Despite the backlash, the movie is now on track for international rollouts. Heres when you can catch Omniscient Reader: The Prophet in your country: July 30 Indonesia July 31 Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand August 1 United States, Canada, Vietnam If youre planning to watch, you may want to go in with lowered expectations, especially if youre a long-time fan of the web novel. While the visuals and cast performances might be worth the watch, just be prepared for a version of Omniscient Reader that takes its own path. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here. In a country where farming is often bound by tradition and generations till the same soil in the same way, a few individuals rise above the conventional thought process of what agriculture can be. They are not just farmers; they are innovators, visionaries who see potential far beyond just growing crops. One such changemaker is Milan Singh Vishwakarma, a visionary farmer from the Mahasamund district of Chhattisgarh, whose journey from modest beginnings to financial success through lac farming is inspiring a new wave of agri-entrepreneurs in India. Inspiring journey from traditional crops to a new path From having limited income, Milan has transformed his life through lac farming and now cultivates and sells Kusumi and Rangini for Rs 700 per kg. According to Krishi Jagran, over the years, his commitment and innovative approach not only changed his own fortunes but also reshaped how farming possibilities are looked at. Earning Rs 700 per kilogram: How Milan Singh makes lakhs annually from 26 acres of lac farming Milan Singh's journey began in a modest farming family, and with education only up to the 12th grade, he started by cultivating conventional crops like paddy and pulses. However, the combination of low returns and rising input costs soon made it challenging to sustain his livelihood. Determined to find a more viable and sustainable path, Milan began exploring alternatives, and that search led him to an age-old yet underutilised agricultural innovation that would transform his future called 'lac farming.' Today, Milan Singh cultivates lac on 26 acres of land, planting host trees such as Palash, Ber, and Semialata that support the lac insects. He gradually moved away from the traditional monocropping practices; he started mixing farming by growing vegetables, pulses, and oilseeds alongside lac. This approach not only helps in promoting crop diversity but also boosts income stability by securing a more profitable farming model. Lac farming involves cultivating lac insects on host trees like Palash | Credit: Freepik Cultivates two major varieties of lac Kusumi lac: The two harvest cycles for Kusumi lac are July to January and January to July. It attracts higher costs in the market and is known for its superior quality. The two harvest cycles for Kusumi lac are July to January and January to July. It attracts higher costs in the market and is known for its superior quality. Rangini Lac: This is usually picked in July and November, and then again in November and July. Even though Ragini Lac is a profitable business, the off-season months provide significant difficulties. Yields, earnings, and market advantages In ideal temperatures between 17 and 36 degrees Celsius, Milan Singh obtains impressive yields: Kusumi Lac: 6 to 10 quintals per acre 6 to 10 quintals per acre Rangini Lac: 8 to 20 quintals per acre (especially on Ber trees) With the market price averaging around Rs 700 per kilogram, Milan benefits from direct trader visits to his farm, eliminating transportation costs and allowing him to keep a larger portion of profits. This efficient system helps Milan Singh generate lakhs of rupees in net income annually, just from lac farming. Milan Singh's journey is an example of pioneering change While most farmers in his region continued to rely on paddy and seasonal crops, Milan Singh chose a different path. His determination, resilience, and strong bond with the land helped him step into the largely overlooked realm of lac farming, which is a traditional resin cultivation practice with ancient origins and untapped promise in today's market. From facing hardships to earning national recognition, it's just incredible. His story may help in reshaping what modern farming in India can look like. FAQs Q. What is lac farming, and why is it important? A. Lac farming involves cultivating lac insects on host trees like Palash, Ber, and Semialata to produce natural resin called lac. It offers a sustainable and profitable alternative to traditional crops. Q. How has Milan Singh Vishwakarma benefited financially from lac farming? Milan Singh cultivates Kusumi and Rangini lac on 26 acres, achieving yields up to 20 quintals per acre. With lac selling at around Rs 700 per kilogram. Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic voice behind Black Sabbath and one of heavy metals biggest names, has passed away at the age of 76. Known for his wild stage presence and unique growl, Ozzy helped shape the sound and chaos of rock music. He died peacefully, surrounded by family, just weeks after his emotional farewell concert. While fans across the world are paying tribute to his legacy, many are also remembering his controversies over the years. The Father of Heavy Metal was once caught in a lawsuit due to one of his songs. One of the most talked-about controversies in his career was the court case involving his song Suicide Solution and a teenagers tragic death. The Suicide Solution lawsuit: A controversy that shook the metal fraternity Back in the 1980s, Ozzy faced a court case that shocked the music world. In 1984, a 19-year-old boy named John McCollum from California took his own life after listening to Ozzys song Suicide Solution. His parents believed the song pushed him towards suicide and filed a lawsuit against Ozzy and his record labels, Jet and CBS. "Suicide Solution" Randy Rhoads /Ozzy Osbourne. En Memoria RANDY RHOADS (December 6, 1956 - March 19, 1982) Se fue, pero no se olvida. pic.twitter.com/KDL4jZtdbw Caro (@SacredSerenity_) March 19, 2025 The song, from his 1980 album Blizzard of Ozz, was meant to warn against alcohol abuse. But McCollums parents claimed it had dangerous, hidden messages. They said the song could influence young listeners who were already struggling. The court didnt agree. In 1986, a judge threw out the case. He said song lyrics are often poetic or symbolic and not meant to be taken literally. The court ruled Ozzy had the right to write about dark topics under free speech laws. The judge also warned that blaming musicians for tragedies could hurt creative freedom. August 7, 1987. A Los Angeles judge favored Ozzy Osbourne after being sued by a Canadian family for the song ''Suicide Solution'', after the death by suicide of his 19-year-old son John McCollum, who at pick up his body, he had headphones on with a cassette where the song appears pic.twitter.com/sbb01hRJw5 (@HeavyMetal_999) August 7, 2024 Ozzy always said Suicide Solution was about the dangers of alcohol, inspired by the death of his friend, AC/DCs Bon Scott. Still, the lawsuit stayed in the public memory for decades, especially for those who questioned how music affects mental health. How did Ozzy Osbourne die? Ozzy Osbourne died on Tuesday at the age of 76. In recent years, his health had declined. In 2020, he revealed he had Parkinsons disease and had suffered a serious fall, which worsened his condition. Despite these setbacks, Ozzy made a stunning return for a farewell show in July 2025. It would be his last. His family confirmed his passing in a heartfelt statement, asking for privacy and remembering him as a man who was deeply loved. It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and pic.twitter.com/WLJhOrMsDF Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) July 22, 2025 Ozzys career was filled with ups and downs, but his impact on music remained powerful till the end. Ozzy Osbournes death has left fans heartbroken, but also asking questions. The Black Sabbath legend passed away at 76, just weeks after performing what now feels like a final goodbye. The cause of death hasnt been confirmed. But given his long-standing health issues and earlier statements, many fans believe this was a planned, peaceful exit. Social media platforms like X, Reddit, and Facebook are filled with people saying the Prince of Darkness went out on his own terms. And once you read their posts, it doesn't feel like a wild theory. It feels like the internet has already made peace with the truth. The internet runs wild with conspiracy theories behind Ozzy Osbourne's death Theories began swirling right after his final performance. Streets are saying Ozzy went ahead with his euthanasia plan and the Farewell show was his own funeral. It doesnt get any more metal than that one user said. Streets are saying Ozzy went ahead with his euthanasia plan and the Farewell show was his own funeral. It doesnt get any more metal than that 999 (@itsKAROMEL) July 22, 2025 While another user on X said, This was 100% medical aid in dying. He was rich and had the means to do it quietly and with his family. Sharon discussed it openly in an interview with the Mirror in 2023. He was too sick, nothing else could kill him. That concert was the most metal goodbye ever. Another tweet read, Absolutely mad news to hear, heard he had himself euthanized in Switzerland because absolutely nothing else could kill that absolute legend. Could Ozzy Osbourne have been euthanised? Both he and wife Sharon have been documented talking about it. Sharon said: We believe 100% in euthanasia so have drawn up plans to go to the assisted suicide flat in Switzerland if we ever have an illness that affects our brains. If pic.twitter.com/qLfetHS59q Jacqui Deevoy (@JacquiDeevoy1) July 23, 2025 Fans believe Ozzy went to Switzerland, where euthanasia is legal, and passed away peacefully. While nothing is confirmed, the tone online is less about rumours and more about closure. Ozzy had Parkinsons, constant pain, and multiple cancelled shows and looked physically worn in his last appearances. Ozzy Osbournes wife Sharon had once said they would consider euthanasia in Switzerland This theory has weight because of what Ozzy and Sharon have said in the past. Back in 2020, Sharon told The Sun, If I cant take care of myself and have no quality of life, I dont want to be here. She had also said to The Mirror that We believe 100% in euthanasia so have drawn up plans to go to the assisted suicide flat in Switzerland if we ever have an illness that affects our brains. If Ozzy or I ever got Alzheimers, thats itwed be off. This was 100% medical aid in dying. He was rich and had the means to do it quietly and with his family. Sharon discussed it openly in a interview with the Mirror on 2023.https://t.co/cue92ae4ZY https://t.co/1MyC6wDe3J Council DM Lunga (@DNDMLunga) July 22, 2025 She even confirmed they would consider assisted dying in Switzerland if it came to that. Ozzy, too, had said he never wanted to live like a vegetable. These werent random thoughts. They were plans. And now, fans think those plans may have just been carried out, quietly and with dignity. Prince Harry and Meghan Markles much-publicised Netflix deal is officially wrapping up. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex signed a multi-year production agreement with the streaming giant back in 2020, reportedly worth around $100 million. But as the deal approaches its September expiration, both parties have confirmed it will not be renewed. The news, first reported by The Sun and later confirmed by sources to People, marks a turning point in the couples media journey post-royal exit. Why Netflix isnt renewing the Sussexes' $100M contract Harry and Meghans Netflix deal comes to an end after nearly five years| Credit: Netflix According to multiple reports, the decision not to extend the deal wasnt fuelled by drama or fallouts. A Hollywood source told The Sun, Theres no animosity from either side. Things have just run their course. Netflix is said to be shifting away from mega-deals in general, focusing instead on first-look or project-based agreements. A similar strategy shift affected Netflixs arrangement with Barack and Michelle Obamas Higher Ground Productions. While Harry and Meghans partnership delivered some initial hits, the overall volume and impact of content reportedly fell short of expectations. Not enough content and underwhelming performance One of the key reasons behind the non-renewal appears to be the lack of consistent, high-performing content. While the couple produced a few projects under the deal, including the record-breaking Harry & Meghan docuseries, Netflix insiders expected more regular output. Meghans lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, made some waves at launch, even cracking the global Top 10 for a brief moment, but engagement tapered off. According to Netflixs July 2025 Engagement Report, the series ranked No. 383 with 5.3 million views since March. Another project, Polo, executive-produced by the couple, garnered just 500,000 views and ranked at No. 3,436. Season 2 of With Love, Meghan will still release this fall, as it was filmed alongside Season 1. How did fans react to the development? Reddit users werent surprised by the news and had a lot to say. One person wrote, Its not being renewed because they didnt deliver as much content as Netflix expected, and it wasnt a major success. Season 2 of Meghans show was filmed alongside Season 1, so the streaming platform didnt need to renew it separately. The show wasnt a big hit, but honestly, thats not surprising. Launching a lifestyle series in todays political and social climate feels tone-deaf and out of touch. Comment byu/popnona from discussion inpopculturechat Another user commented, I like her, but shes no Martha or Ina, and the stuff she was doing on her show was very basic. Netflix was expecting more, and stuff thatd have been fine on a lifestyle blog like The Tig 10 years ago isnt going to work in todays environment. Comment byu/popnona from discussion inpopculturechat Some reactions were harsher, with one user saying, I still cant believe they kept giving them this much money for subpar content, while another sarcastically added, Im sure this will give them the privacy they so desperately want. Comment byu/popnona from discussion inpopculturechat Comment byu/popnona from discussion inpopculturechat A quick look at what they produced Despite the mixed results, the couple did deliver several projects under their Netflix banner, Archewell Productions. The biggest hit was clearly Harry & Meghan, a six-part docuseries that chronicled their exit from royal life and became Netflixs most-watched documentary debut ever. Harry and Meghan was their biggest Netflix hit| Credit: Netflix Other projects included the animated series Pearl (which was later cancelled), the short documentary Heart of Invictus focusing on veterans and the Invictus Games, Live to Lead featuring interviews with global changemakers, and Polo, which flew under the radar. Meghans With Love, Meghan lifestyle series was the fifth and latest release from the deal, offering a glossy peek into her life in Montecito with celebrity guests and branded products. With Love, Meghan premiered in March this year to mixed reviews| Credit: Netflix So is it over between Meghan-Harry and Netflix? Although their multi-year Netflix deal is ending, this doesnt necessarily mean the end of their relationship with the platform. Season 2 of With Love, Meghan is still set to release in fall 2025 with Chrissy Teigen as the first confirmed guest. Meghans lifestyle brand As Ever continues to partner with Netflixs CPG division, and Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos described the collaboration as a big discovery model for the company. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Among thousands of saffron-draped sadhus and common people, heading to Haridwar for the Kanwar Yatra, one stands out, Hoshi Takayuki, 41, a former Japanese entrepreneur who once ran a chain of 15 beauty product stores in Tokyo. But now? He is Bala Kumbha Gurumuni, a Lord Shiva devotee on a soul-searching journey through Uttarakhand. From Tokyo to Trishul: The unlikely yogi tale of Hoshi Takayuki What sparked this transformation? A spiritual rollercoaster that started two decades ago in Tamil Nadu. During a trip, Takayuki stumbled upon a Nadi astrology centre, yes, the ancient palm-leaf-reading thing, and the predictions apparently blew his mind. He was told that he had once lived as a Himalayan sage and was destined to return to Hindu spirituality. Talk about a plot twist. A Lord #Shiva devotee, Takayuki has built two shrines in the deity's honour; but his spiritual journey began 20 years ago with a trip to #TamilNadu, where an astrological reading "revealed his past life". Details here https://t.co/NQKSgAHAsf pic.twitter.com/6pj8n4fDOF The Times Of India (@timesofindia) July 23, 2025 Dreams, destiny, and a full-blown Shiva obsession Back in Tokyo, Takayuki said he dreamt of being in Uttarakhand in another lifetime. That one dream set off a chain reaction. He soon handed over his business empire to his followers (power move, honestly) and dedicated himself entirely to a spiritual life. Fast-forward to today, he has transformed his Tokyo home into a full-fledged Shiva temple and even constructed a second shrine. He now goes by his spiritual name, which he said was revealed in a second Nadi reading, Bala Kumbha Gurumuni. Kanwar Yatra, ashrams, and big plans for India Takayuki is not walking this path alone. He is currently in India with a squad of 20 followers, offering free food to fellow kanwariyas in a Dehradun camp. According to his long-time friend and Japan-based Indian consultant Ramesh Sundriyal, Takayuki is planning to set up an ashram in Uttarakhand and has already bought 35 acres in Puducherry to build a majestic Shiva temple. The spiritual influencer, because lets be honest, he kind of is onesays he still feels deeply connected to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand and is convinced he lived there in a past life. He is still searching for what he calls his lost village. Now that is what you call a full-circle reincarnation arc. Sohei Kamiya, a popular YouTuber-turned-politician, is currently making waves in Japanese politics. Also known as Japans Donald Trump, Kamiya has emerged as a major figure after his far-right party, Sanseito, shocked many by winning 14 seats in the recent Japan election. This surprising success has not only raised eyebrows domestically but also drawn comparisons to populist leaders like Donald Trump himself. From Fringe Candidate to Political Force The rise of Sohei Kamiya marks a significant shift in Japanese politics. His party, Sanseito, which started out on the fringes during the COVID-19 pandemic, has now become a strong force in the countrys upper house. In 2022, Sanseito held just one seat. But in the latest Japan election, the party secured 1415 seats in the 248-member House of Councillors, dramatically increasing its influence. This unexpected gain has weakened Prime Minister Shigeru Ishibas coalition, placing Kamiya in a position to influence national legislation. Unlike mainstream parties, Kamiya prefers building alliances with other fringe groups instead of aligning with the ruling coalition. Who Is Sohei Kamiya? Born on 12 October 1977 in Takahama, Fukui Prefecture, Sohei Kamiya holds a law degree and has had a varied career. Before entering politics, he worked as an English teacher, supermarket manager, and later became popular on YouTube, where he posted political videos questioning government policies. His official political career began as a member of Suita City Council in Osaka. He was part of the Liberal Democratic Party from 2012 to 2015, later serving as an independent until he founded Sanseito in 2020. Sohei Kamiyas Career and the Birth of Sanseito Sohei Kamiya, leader of Japan's far-right populist Sanseito party, places a red paper rose on the name of an elected candidate | Credit: AP Sanseitoalso known as the Party of Do It Yourselfwas launched in April 2020 during the pandemic by a group of citizens frustrated with Japans existing political choices. Since its foundation, Sohei Kamiyas career has been closely tied to the growth of this party. As the Secretary General and key strategist, he has been its public face and driving force. The partys ideology includes Japanese nationalism, right-wing populism, and a firm anti-immigration stance. It also opposes LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality initiatives, and COVID-19 vaccines and maskspositions that have helped it gain popularity among right-leaning voters. In 2022, Sanseito officially gained national party status by earning more than 2% of the national vote and winning one seat. Their success has now grown significantly, with 14 seats won in the 2025 Japan election. Why Is Kamiya Called Japans Donald Trump? Sohei Kamiya has earned the nickname Japans Donald Trump due to his populist rhetoric, controversial statements, and anti-establishment attitude. Like Trump, he positions himself as a voice for "ordinary people" and frequently criticises the government, media, and global institutions. His speeches often echo nationalist and xenophobic themes. During his campaign, Kamiya referred to Japans reliance on foreign workers as national doping, suggesting that immigration weakens national identity. He also drew criticism for saying, Only young women can have children, a statement that many labelled as sexist and out of touch. Furthermore, he proposed that terminally ill patients should bear the full cost of life-prolonging treatmentsanother stance that stirred public outrage. Controversies and Criticism Sohei Kamiya, leader of Japan's far-right populist Sanseito party | Credit: AP Like Trump, Sohei Kamiyas career has been filled with controversies. He has made questionable historical claims, including suggesting that only American troops were responsible for Okinawan civilian deaths during the Battle of Okinawaignoring the role of Japans own military. His party also came under fire when one of its candidates appeared on Russias Sputnik News, leading to suspicions about pro-Russia leanings. However, Kamiya denied these allegations and called it a misunderstanding. What Lies Ahead for Sohei Kamiya? With the momentum from the recent Japan election, Sohei Kamiya and his party are expected to continue influencing Japans political direction. As their online presence grows and their nationalist message resonates with certain voters, Kamiya is solidifying his place as a powerful new figureone that many now call Japan's Donald Trump. Whether his rise will bring lasting change or fuel deeper divisions remains to be seen. But whats certain is that Sohei Kamiyas career is just getting started, and the world is watching. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Kaylee Goncalves was one of the four University of Idaho students brutally murdered in their off-campus home in a gruesome Idaho murder case in November 2022. The case drew national attention for its shocking details and the months-long search that led to the arrest of Bryan Kohberger. Nearly three years later, on July 23, 2025, Kohberger stood before the victims families during a tense sentencing hearing. Among those in court was Kaylees sister, who looked him in the eye and spoke from a place of pain, love, and fury. Her words brought back focus to who Kaylee was beyond the headlines, beyond the horror. What happened on the night of the Idaho murders? On the night of November 12, 2022, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin had attended a Sigma Chi party. They returned to Xanas rental home on King Road around 1:45 a.m. Surveillance footage and phone records later placed the time of the murders between 4 a.m. and 4:25 a.m. A DoorDash order was delivered around 4, and Xana was on TikTok just minutes before the attack. Bryan Kohberger has confessed to the 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. pic.twitter.com/8mFsB1SZN8 Pop Crave (@PopCrave) July 2, 2025 That morning, four promising lives were taken in their sleep, mostly. Some had defensive wounds; each was stabbed repeatedly. Two other roommates in the house survived, untouched. The man accused of the gruesome murders is Bryan Kohberger. A criminology Ph.D. student from Washington State University, just nine miles away from where the students lived. His DNA was found on a knife sheath at the scene. Surveillance footage and cellphone records tied him to the neighborhood. He had visited the area at least 12 times before the attack. Still, no clear motive has been confirmed. During sentencing, Kaylees sister confronted Bryan Kohberger and didnt hold back In a Boise courtroom this week, Alivea Goncalves took the floor and the entire room listened. Her voice didnt shake. Her words didnt soften. Addressing Kohberger directly, she said, Im going to call you exactly what you are: sociopath, psychopath, murderer. Her statement wasnt scripted, it felt like it had been building inside her since that awful November morning. Sit up straight when I talk to you, she said. Then came the questions, raw, burning ones. Did you prepare for this? Did you plan? Why my sisters? Did you start shaving your eyebrows before or after? And then, a line that echoed through the room: The truth is, youre basic. #BryanKohberger #IdahoMurders #Idaho4 #IdahoStudentMurders Sister of Kaylee Goncalves; Let me be very clear, if you hadnt attacked them in their sleep in the middle of the night like a paedophile, Kaylee wouldve kicked your fcking ass DAMN Olivia Goncalves pic.twitter.com/uKq7OGx5Og Adriienne F (@imadriienne) July 23, 2025 She went on: Youre not important. Dont try to convince yourself that you matter just because someone said your name out loud. The courtroom applauded soon after. Alivea ripped into his perceived intelligence, If you were so smart, would you be here now? and stripped him of the power he may have thought he had. Her words were brutal, unfiltered, and devastating. They didnt just speak for her family. They screamed for every family whos ever buried a child taken by violence. Who was Kaylee Goncalves? She was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority, and she was inseparable from her best friend Madison Mogen, her sister in every sense. Theyd grown up together, laughed together, and tragically, died together. The two were found alongside friends Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin on Nov. 13, 2022, in a brutal and senseless killing that stunned the country. Kaylee Goncalves was a bold, protective, and endlessly driven individual (Credits: Instagram/@kayleegoncalves) Her sister, Alivea Goncalves, described Kaylee as a fighter for fairness, someone who couldnt stand injustice, even in small ways. She had everything going for her, Alivea said. She didnt hold back not with love, not with life, not with anything. More about Bryan Kohberger's sentencing Bryan Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. Each murder charge carries a life sentence. His trial has been long-awaited, with DNA evidence, cellphone tracking, and digital purchases, including a military knife, all playing into the prosecutions case. He has pleaded guilty, however, the motive is yet to be established. Bryan Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary (Credits: X/@RollingStone) Autopsy reports confirmed that all four victims were likely asleep during the attack. The two roommates who survived, still unnamed publicly, have not spoken out in depth. Investigators havent identified why they were spared or if the killer even knew they were there. ET Deepinder Goyal's net worth is now estimated to be $1.9 billion Forbes's How did Zomato's Deepinder Goyal add Rs 2000 crore as Eternal shares hit a record? @Uttupaaji ( Image credit : Zomato's Deepinder Goyal add Rs 200 crore as Eternal shares hit | Credit: X | @Uttupaaji ) Revenue generated from the food delivery segment rose by over 16 per cent FAQs Q. What does this mean for Eternal? Q. How many shares does Deepinder Goyal have? For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Deepinder Goyal, the Zomato CEO, is once again making headlines as the billionaire's net worth has jumped by around Rs 2000 crore in just 2 days. According to anreport, following a blistering rally in Eternal shares, Deepinder Goyal got Rs 2,000 crore richer in just 2 days, on Tuesday.As per the report, the investors have reacted positively to the rapid expansion of Blinkit, the quick commerce division of Eternal, leading to a surge of over 21 per cent in the company's shares over the past two days.The stock even reached a new all-time high of Rs 311.60 on the NSE. Eternal's 42-year-old founder and CEO, Goyal, who is a self-made billionaire, has seen the value of his 3.83 per cent stake in the company rise to Rs 11,515 crore as a result of it.According tolist of real-time billionaires, the IITians' net worth is $1.9 billion (Rs 15,820 crore)Meanwhile, during the whole day, the Eternal shares surpassed the R 3 lakh crore market capitalisation mark. Additionally, now it is more valuable than the likes of Wipro, Tata Motors, Nestle, and Asian Paints.The impact was not only seen on Blinkit, but the boom in Eternal share also positively impacted the rival company Swiggy, which rallied over 7 per cent during the day.On Tuesday, shares of Eternal jumped over 21 per cent in the past 48 hours, hitting a new record high of Rs 311.60 on the NSE, reported India Today.The rally came despite the company reporting a 90 per cent year-on-year fall in its consolidated net profit for the quarter ended June 2025 (Q1FY26). The net profit stood at Rs 25 crore, down from Rs 253 crore in the same period of the previous year.Following the release of Eternal's first-quarter financial year 2026 earnings, the share price experienced a significant rise. In the first quarter of FY26, Zomato's parent business reported a 90 per cent year-over-year drop in net profit to Rs 25 crore.However, during the reviewed quarter, its operating revenue rose by 70 per cent year over year to Rs 7,167 crore. The increase in Eternal's share price was further reinforced by positive management remarks.For Q1 FY26, the company noted a rapid commerce revenue of Rs 2,400 crore, up approximately 155 per cent YoY from Q1 FY25's revenue of Rs 942 crore. The meal delivery segment's revenue increased by more than 16 per cent year over year to Rs 2,261 crore.The spike in share price pushed Eternal's market capitalisation past Rs 3 lakh crore, making it more valuable than rival companies Wipro, Tata Motors, Nestle, and Asian Paints.The sudden rally transition translated into a significant wealth gain for Eternal CEO Deepinder Goyal, who holds nearly 369,471,500 shares in the company. A fugitive Moldovan oligarch, Vladimir Plahotniuc, who is implicated in a $1 billion bank fraud, has been arrested in Athens after it was discovered he was living in a luxury villa and had obtained fraudulent Greek identity documents, police said. Mr. Plahotniuc, 59, was arrested Sunday at Athens International Airport as he was attempting to board a flight to Dubai . His associate, Constantin Tutu, a 38-year-old former kickboxer also wanted internationally, was arrested with him. Police had tracked the two men to a villa in the coastal suburb of Saronida. A search of the property yielded approximately 155,000 euros in cash, 17 fake passports from various countries, and four high-value luxury watches. Investigators found that Mr. Plahotniuc had managed to obtain a genuine Greek passport and ID card using forged paperwork. Mr. Tutu was also found with forged Romanian and Bulgarian travel documents. The two men are scheduled to appear before a prosecutor on Wednesday. iefimerida.gr Generali Hellas announced the signing of an agreement for the acquisition of the Euroclinic Group from Akkadia Holdings Limited. The investment is part of the strategic plan Lifetime Partner 27: Generali Hellas announces acquisition of Euroclinic Group - Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against re-electing President Bola Tinubu in 2027, declaring that well all be dead and buried if the president secures a second term. Amaechi made the remarks on Tuesday, while addressing members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition in Rivers State. The former Rivers State governor decried the manipulation of election results in the state and urged party members to actively resist such actions ahead of the 2027 general elections. Advertisement He said, Our state is notorious for writing results, and we must stop them from writing results. When they say results have already been written, it discourages voters from coming out. We should encourage people to come out and vote for the removal of the current government or we will all die of hunger. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/sycophants-around-tinubu-are-deceiving-him-things-are-not-okay-adamu-garba.html He also criticized the current state of the country under Tinubus leadership, warning of worse to come: Currently, Nigerians are complaining in President Tinubus first tenure; imagine what the second tenure will be like. Then, youll be dead and buried. Amaechi further called on ADC members to intensify grassroots mobilization, urging them to return to their wards and begin registration drives to ensure active participation in the electoral process. We will form a committee that will go from local government to local government, ward to ward to ascertain the number of people we have, he stated. A bill seeking to bar public servants and their families from using private schools and hospitals has passed first reading at the House of Representatives. The bill, sponsored by the lawmaker representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, Amobi Ogah, was proposed during plenary on Tuesday. Addressing newsmen after the plenary session, the legislator said that the bill would prevent conflict of interest, maintain public trust, and ensure high, uncompromised standards and integrity of public schools and healthcare centres. Advertisement The lawmaker also recalled that the nations foremost politicians, including Ahmadu Bello, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Tafawa Balewa, attended public schools before Nigeria gained independence in 1960. READ MORE: National Assembly Forwards Tax Reform Bills To Tinubu For Final Approval He added that Nigerians spent at least $29.29 billion on foreign medical expenses during the eight years of the late former President Muhammadu Buharis administration. Amobi said: This bill represents a watershed moment for our country. Its imperative that we eliminate conflicting interests and compel public officials to actively engage in revamping the very institutions they oversee, instead of fleeing to private alternatives. In 2023 alone, $218.87m was spent on foreign education, while the first quarter of 2024 recorded an additional $38.17m outflow for the same purpose. Despite allocating N1.34tn to the health sector in the 2024 budget, Nigerians still channel over $1bn abroad annually for healthcare. This is unsustainable. If we could remove the fuel subsidy, then we must equally find the courage to reform our public institutions. This bill is more than just legislation; its a call to national rebirth. We must put an end to the culture of medical and educational tourism among public servants and reinvest in what we have. Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that Governor Ademola Adeleke was rejected because his defection bid was driven by desperation and would damage the partys image. The claim was made in a statement issued on Wednesday, by the state APC chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, in Osogbo. Lawal said Governor Adelekes alleged move to join the APC was not borne out of conviction but fear of electoral defeat in 2026. Advertisement It was the fear of the impending 2026 election defeat that motivated the governor to desperately seek in our party an asylum for his political survival, he stated. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/sycophants-around-tinubu-are-deceiving-him-things-are-not-okay-adamu-garba.html He further accused Adeleke of running from the consequences of alleged financial mismanagement. Those who knew Governor Adeleke is running from the wrath of the Osun State electorate, after mismanaging close to N1 trillion in 30 months of his administration, are the ones who rejected his repugnant overtures and deceptive proposal to join the APC, he added. Lawal also claimed that Adelekes defection plan was a calculated move to stain the APCs integrity and credibility. In a situation where an entry is suspected to tarnish the image of the party and create a public perception crisis, the party is at will to foreclose such a destructive entry, he said. He criticised Adeleke for allegedly pretending to support President Bola Tinubu in Abuja while funding media attacks against him in Osun. You cannot be criticizing President Tinubu behind closed doors and still claim to be his ally in public, he concluded. Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, on Tuesday, warned that his administration may confiscate any farmland that becomes a source of communal violence. The warning came during a visit to Lamurde Local Government Area, which recently witnessed bloody clashes between two neighbouring communities over a disputed piece of land. The violence, which erupted on July 5 and persisted for several days, led to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of many residents. Advertisement Governor Fintiri, accompanied by senior officials and security operatives, visited the affected areas, including Waduku, Lakan, and Rugange. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/drama-as-security-agents-deny-senator-natasha-entry-into-national-assembly.html While addressing the residents, the governor expressed deep concern over the continued hostilities. I urge you to sheath your swords, forgive one another, and live together in peace. This government will not tolerate further violence, he said. He declared that the government would not hesitate to take control of any land fueling conflict. You must not trespass on land that does not belong to you. Land disputes will not be allowed to fuel further bloodshed, Fintiri emphasized. During the visit, emotional pleas for peace were made by community leaders. At Waduku, Mr. Danladi Kotohula of the Bachama community blamed law enforcement, saying, The DPO did not intervene early enough to prevent this from getting out of hand. In Lakan, Mr. Hygimus Mangu of the Chobo community lamented the loss of harmony between both sides, saying, These two communities have lived in peace for decades, even intermarried. We must return to that unity. Governor Fintiri assured victims that the government would do all it takes to restore peace and protect lives. Number of All Progressives Congress senators in the National Assembly increased to 70, following defection of four lawmakers from Peoples Democratic Party. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that Senator Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Senator Oluwole Olubiyi (Osun Central), Senator Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom North East), and Senator Samson Ekong (Akwa Ibom South), announced their exit from the opposition during plenary. It was gathered that their resignation letters were read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday. Advertisement With the latest switch, the composition of the 10th Senate now stands as follows: APC 70, PDP 28, Labour Party 5, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) 1, Social Democratic Party (SDP) 2, and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) 1. In his resignation letter, Senator Bassey( Akwa Ibom) invoked Sections 40 and 68(1)(g) of the Nigerian Constitution and said his defection was deeply considered and imperative. He said: This decision has become imperative in view of the prevailing political developments both in my constituency and within the party structure, which has been fractured beyond redemption. Senator Samson Ekong also defended his decision, linking it to political shifts in Akwa Ibom. He said: Politics is a game of interest, and if I may add, circumstances. READ MORE: 2027: Gov Adeleke, Osun PDP Endorse Tinubu For Second Term In Akwa Ibom State, the earth has moved with the convergence of principal political players on the APC platform. My people have high hopes for commensurate reward systems from the APC power matrix. Meanwhile, the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, described the defections as a demonstration of democratic principles in action. He said: For us, it is not just about the numbers. We have a serious job ahead to ensure that members and stakeholders remain committed to the ideals of our party. We are doing everything possible to move Nigeria to the next level, and we do not take this momentum for granted. Suspected armed robbers have shot and killed a police sergeant, Aminu Yusuf, in Benin City, Edo State, during an attack on a convoy escorting a Chinese expatriate from a bank. The incident occurred on Tuesday, at about 2:45 pm along First East Circular Road, shortly after the expatriate had completed a cash withdrawal from a commercial bank on Sapele Road. The late officer was attached to a private company as part of an official police assignment. The gunmen, numbering four, reportedly trailed the vehicle from the bank and opened fire on the sergeant before he could respond. Advertisement The robbers attacked them while they were returning from the bank with cash running into millions. They shot Sergeant Aminu and fled with his AK-47 rifle bearing breech number BD 347851, 30 rounds of ammunition, and an undisclosed amount of money, a police source confirmed. The money was packed in a Ghana-Must-Go bag, another source familiar with the case revealed. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/its-easier-to-break-apc-than-my-bond-with-peter-obi-datti-baba-ahmed.html It was a well-coordinated operation. They knew the route and timing of the escort movement. The officer was rushed to a specialist hospital in Benin City but was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains have since been deposited in the mortuary. As of press time, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Command, Moses Yamu, was yet to issue an official statement. However, a senior officer said, A manhunt has been launched. We are working with available intelligence to arrest those behind this brutal attack. This is a direct assault on the police. We will not rest until the culprits are brought to justice, he added. A 15-year-old boy, Yau Adamu, has been arrested for allegedly killing a 19-year-old Fulani youth, Barau Beli, following a violent clash over a farmland in Auno village, Kafin Hausa Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was confirmed in a statement by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Jigawa State Commandant, Bala Bodinga. According to the commandant, The suspect, Yau Adamu, allegedly confronted Barau after he was caught grazing livestock on his fathers farmland. The situation escalated into a violent confrontation. Advertisement Bodinga added that, The altercation turned deadly when Yau allegedly struck Barau with a stick, causing serious internal injuries. He was rushed to the Kafin Hausa General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/corrupt-political-actors-frustrating-refineries-in-africa-dangote.html He noted that operatives of the command responded swiftly and arrested the suspect at the scene. Our officers from the Kafin Hausa Division acted promptly and ensured the suspect did not escape. He is now in custody and will face justice, Bodinga said. He further stressed the need for peaceful coexistence, especially in areas prone to farmer-herder conflicts. We condemn this tragic incident in its entirety. I urge all communities to embrace dialogue and lawful means of settling disputes. Violence is never the answer, he said. Bodinga confirmed that the case has been transferred to the Jigawa State Police Command for thorough investigation and possible prosecution. He urged residents to remain calm and support authorities. By working together, we can ensure justice is served and prevent such occurrences in the future, he concluded. Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has reignited political tension with fresh remarks mocking supporters of Labour Party leader, Peter Obi. Addressing a cheering crowd in Benin City on Tuesday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governor defended his earlier warning to Obi, saying his critics were deliberately twisting his words for political gain. Just one word, and everybody was crying. I simply said, Dont come to Edo without telling me, Okpebholo declared, drawing laughter and applause from his audience. Advertisement He continued, I dont know which one is paining them. Is it because I said they dont have shishi? Didnt they say they dont have shishi? So why are they crying now? READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/youre-not-bigger-than-nigerias-constitution-natasha-tells-akpabio.html The governor was responding to backlash over a previous statement in which he warned that Obi would be responsible for whatever happens to him if he entered Edo State without his permission. Many Nigerians viewed the remark as a direct threat to the former Anambra governor and 2027 presidential hopeful. However, Okpebholo dismissed the claims. They said I threatened him, but I only gave advice. Is it now a crime to advise someone? If Peter Obi wants to come to Edo, let him inform the host. Thats respect. Thats protocol, he said. He also took aim at online commentators. They sit on Twitter and abuse me morning to night. But who is feeding them? Who gave them phone? The same person theyre crying for said he doesnt do money politics. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over the recent controversy surrounding former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obis visit to the state. Speaking during the commissioning of new Edo Line transport terminal on Tuesday in Benin City, Mr. Wike said that Obi should stop politicising governance matters. The former Rivers State governor said that Okpebholo did not bar Obi from entering Edo but only requested prior notice for security coordination. Advertisement The FCT Minister urged Governor Okpebholo to remain firm in his decisions, stating that he has his support. He said: Leadership is not easy. As a leader, you are a dustbin, people throw all kinds of things at you. READ MORE: 2027: Peter Obi Is No Threat To APC Edo Commissioner Ive watched on television recently unnecessary debates. That is why I say Nigerians forget history. When I was governor, when Peter Obi was coming to my state, he notified me. I provided logistics, vehicles for him to use. Because at that level, as a presidential candidate, if he does not tell you and anything happens, the governor will be held responsible. And people should stop politicking when the truth is being told. Obi, knowing fully well that with their so-called coalition, anything can happen, will accuse the governor that he was behind it. Someone might cause harm, and theyll blame the governor, saying he knew a coalition member was coming. If the man said he wont listen to you, its okay. Youve done your work. People play to the gallery. Governor Okpebholo had warned Mr. Obi to give him a prior notification before entering Edo State, citing security concerns, a development which most opposition parties described as threat to human rights. The Senate, on Tuesday, approved President Bola Tinubus request to secure over $21 billion in external loans for the 20252026 fiscal cycle. This is intended to finance key infrastructure and developmental projects under the 2025 Appropriation Act. The approval followed the adoption of a report presented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, Senator Haruna Manu. Advertisement He stated that the borrowing plan, which would be executed through multilateral and bilateral institutions such as the World Bank, African Development Bank, and Islamic Development Bank, is vital for economic recovery and national growth. These loans are targeted at priority sectors like power, health, education, water resources, and agriculture, Manu said. It is not reckless borrowing; it is a strategic financial move aimed at stimulating the economy. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/disputed-lands-will-be-seized-if-violence-continues-in-adamawa-gov-fintiri.html Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, defended the decision, stressing that the loan was necessary to implement critical parts of the budget. We are not borrowing for luxury. We are borrowing to invest in roads, schools, and healthcare systems. This is a path to sustainable development, he said. Akpabio also addressed concerns about Nigerias growing debt profile. Yes, we are concerned about the debt burden, but what is more dangerous is failing to invest in our economy, he added. The Senate will ensure strict oversight to monitor disbursement and project execution. Senator Adamu Aliero, a ranking lawmaker, also voiced support, saying, Without adequate funding, the goals of the 2025 budget will remain on paper. This is a step towards practical implementation. Former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, has accused President Bola Tinubu of deploying state institutions to intimidate opposition figures and weaken Nigerias democracy. Lamido made the claim on Tuesday, during a media briefing at his office in Kano. He warned that Nigeria was drifting into authoritarianism under Tinubus leadership, likening the presidents actions to those of an emperor. Today, Tinubu is using state institutions to crush the opposition through intimidation, blackmail, harassment, and government patronage, Lamido alleged. Advertisement He cited the case of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who reportedly faced corruption charges from the EFCC but saw them disappear after joining the APC. A clear example is Okowa after joining the APC, those charges disappeared, he said. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/07/lp-crisis-i-may-consider-running-for-president-in-2027-datti-baba-ahmed.html Lamido further accused the government of orchestrating divisions among the countrys regions for political gain. They are separating the North Central from the rest of the North, dividing South East and South South all for political advantage, he noted. He also expressed doubts over ongoing efforts to form a political coalition against the APC, describing it as a gathering of individuals, unlike the organic merger in 2014 that birthed the APC. For me, any coalition must define clear parameters It should be for democracy, unity, stability, security, and prosperity, he said, while declaring his loyalty to the PDP. I remain in the PDP. I cannot walk out of my skin. PDP is my legacy. Controversial Nigerian social media personality, VeryDarkMan, has slammed his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, for warning him to stop putting himself in risky or dangerous situations. Adeyanju had taken to X (formerly Twitter) to express concern over VeryDarkMans bold activism, noting that people tend to quickly move on if something tragic happens. He wrote: I call VDM every time to be careful and stop taking unnecessary risks but he doesnt listen most of the time. If anything happens to you today, everyone has moved on by tomorrow. We only overrate ourselves, Nigerians dont rate anybody. Advertisement READ MORE: VeryDarkMan Shares Sneak Peek Of His Newly Acquired NGO Office The comment sparked reactions online, with many suggesting tension between the lawyer and his client. Reacting in an Instagram video on Tuesday, VeryDarkMan condemned the statement, saying he expected better from someone he regarded as a fellow activist. He said: Im really disappointed by this tweet from my lawyer about me. First thing first, Im really disappointed in my lawyer, Deji Adeyanju. Im so disappointed in you for this post especially because you are a comrade. If it was an ordinary Nigerian that say this thing I would have assumed they dont know better. He acknowledged the truth in the idea that Nigerians may move on after a persons death, but argued that it is a universal reality. Its true that Nigerians will move on if anything happens to me today, but is there anyone that will die and Nigeria will not move on? Jesus Christ died, the world moved on. Catholic Pope died, the world moved on and a new Pope was installed. Buhari died, the world has moved on. Who do you think is special, you? He went on to describe the mindset behind such caution as fearful and unproductive. Ultimately, anybody wey open his mouth talk that thing is a coward. I swear to God, any human for this country wey open his mouth to say Nigeria will move on if you die is a coward. And trust me, that is a word those politicians have put out there to scare people from talking. Like I said, this na coward talk. He added that risk is unavoidable, even for those who live quietly. I have the platform. Some people self wey no dey take risks, them they come kill them for their house. Look at what happened in Benue, Borno, Taraba, Delta State, Enugu. You think you are important? We are all nothing. You add so much importance to your life when you are nothing. The Microsoft C++ Code Analysis tool has been updated to provide better tracking, justification, and overall management of warning suppressions. These improvements lead to a more maintainable and robust code base, according to Microsoft. Improvements to Microsoft C++ Code Analysis were detailed in a July 15 blog post. Enhancements to warning suppression offer improved auditability and review, enhanced code maintainability, better management of technical debt, and consistency across suppression mechanisms, Microsoft said. With the updates to the static analysis tool, which is integrated into the Visual Studio 2022 17.14 IDE, support for gsl::suppress has been updated to align with the latest C++ Core Guidelines syntax. Warnings now can be suppressed by using the gsl::suppress attribute. In this stock photo, a business person completes financial tasks. Dividing financial duties among staff is one way to avoid theft problems, Gene Marks writes. Read more Employee theft can become a big issue for small businesses. How can you protect your money and your assets? The first thing is understanding how it occurs. Theft can come from multiple directions. A Business.org survey of 700 small business owners found that 22% said they had experienced theft from their own staff. Organizations lose 5% of their revenue to fraud each year, a 2024 report from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners found. Advertisement David Anderson, a forensic accountant based in Philadelphia, calls it the fraud triangle, referring to three elements that are necessary for fraud to occur. These are pressure, opportunity, and rationalization, Anderson said. As long as youve got those three factors present, then you run the risk of a trusted person committing fraud and stealing money from the business. Owners often lack financial oversight, Anderson said, and that creates opportunities for an employee to commit fraud. Many small business owners are excellent at their trade, he stressed, but not at managing finances, leading them to delegate too much control. They bring in someone who they trust to handle the financial side, and pretty much stay away from it, he said. That potentially creates problems. Tone at the top To overcome these challenges, Anderson said, its critical to set the right tone at the top. Owners who cut corners or behave unethically create an environment where employees feel justified in stealing, he said. If you are not being honest, employees see that and rationalize their own fraud. Anderson recalled a client whose employee had stolen $1.5 million. That person said: The owners were defrauding the banks, so I figured I can do it, too. Segregate duties If youre running a small business, youre probably wearing a lot of hats, which means you are likely asking a bookkeeper or accountant to do financial work for your company. But the more you delegate, the more you open yourself up to risk. To mitigate this, business owners must take an active role in safeguarding their finances through strong internal controls, said Adrienne Straccione, a CPA with the local accounting firm Wouch, Maloney & Co. LLP. Its important to have someone other than the bookkeeper perform key reviews like bank reconciliations to reduce opportunities for fraud, she said. You never want the person whos cutting the checks and making the deposits to also be the one thats reviewing bills and approving bills and also doing the bank statements. Watch cash Other practices like reviewing bank statements monthly can make a big impact. Have the bank statement sent directly to you or log in once a month and look at your bank balances and statements, Anderson said. When it comes to cash, Straccione said, simple tools like Positive Pay a service offered by many banks can help identify potentially fraudulent transactions. If a company doesnt take advantage of this service, theyre leaving themselves open to the risk that some checks may be cashed fraudulently, she said. Straccione runs an audit trail of transactions for the year to check what things have changed after an original transaction was entered. These types of reports are common in most mainstream accounting systems, she said. Require vacations Both Anderson and Straccione strongly recommend requiring employees particularly those in the financial areas of the company to take vacations. When an employee is out of the office, others perform their responsibilities. Its not only a good way to cross-train people but also to provide another set of eyes on the transactions. A majority of the instances weve heard where fraud has occurred is discovered when the bookkeeper goes away, Straccione said. When someone else is doing the work, its not uncommon for questions to be asked. Its also important to watch external signs like lifestyle changes, which can signal possible fraud. Look for unexpected spending habits or possessions among staff which can be red flags, Anderson says. You might want to ask yourself why is my accounting clerk is driving a BMW on a $40,000 salary, or how is my cashier affording to buy expensive clothing. Be aware of external fraud Its important to be aware of external fraud and scams, which are a growing threat to small businesses due to their increasing sophistication. Theres been a lot of buzz in the news lately about AI being used to create fake voices and making sure that youre talking to the right person on the other end is very important, Straccione said. Its also important people on the accounting side of the business look closely at email requests and confirm that theyre receiving these requests from a legitimate email address from a known supplier or customer. In the end, its still the owners responsibility to be involved and be wary. Small business owners have to keep their eyes open, Straccione said. Its your money, and some things cant be completely delegated. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel (center, left) and U.S. Attorney David Metcalf (center, right) are outside Federal Court Wednesday, July 23, 2025 after Hassan Elliott, who fatally shot Philadelphia SWAT Cpl. James OConnor IV in 2020, was sentenced to 75 years in federal prison. Read more The man who fatally shot Philadelphia SWAT Cpl. James OConnor IV in 2020 while attempting to avoid apprehension for another homicide was sentenced Thursday to 75 years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Juan R. Sanchez said that Hassan Elliott had committed horrendous crimes that left dozens of people, and even the community at-large, wounded. Advertisement Elliotts conduct intentional conduct has caused tremendous harm, Sanchez said. Elliott, 26, pleaded guilty earlier this year to murder and racketeering charges, admitting that the killing of OConnor was just one of a series of crimes he and several other people committed to advance the interests of their violent Frankford-based drug gang, known as SG1700. For several years before he shot OConnor, prosecutors said, Elliott and other members of the gang dealt crack and marijuana and used bloodshed to boost their business. Between 2018 and 2019, prosecutors said, Elliott killed three men and shot nine more people including several unwitting bystanders often because he was seeking to settle perceived grudges or avenge purported insults against him or other SG1700 members. The wave of criminal conduct reached a bleak end in March 2020, when OConnor and a team of SWAT officers arrived at a Frankford apartment to arrest Elliott on a warrant for one of those earlier homicides. Elliott, knowing he was being pursued by police, grabbed a .22-caliber rifle and began firing through a bedroom door, striking OConnor in the neck and an arm. OConnor a son and father of city police officers was taken to Temple University Hospital and declared dead not long afterward. He was posthumously promoted to sergeant. Elliott, meanwhile, was taken into custody by OConnors colleagues. Dozens of OConnors coworkers on Thursday packed two courtrooms to show their support for him and his relatives. And OConnors daughter and widow testified during the hearing, telling Sanchez that Elliott had destroyed their sense of peace and safety and caused them to lose sleep, spend birthdays at the cemetery, and have fears of being shot when they walk up staircases. You took something I was not ready to let go of, his widow, Terri OConnor, said to Elliott through tears. You took away our future. Elliotts attorney, Patrick Egan, acknowledged that the case was an absolute tragedy. But he said Elliott had an exceptionally difficult upbringing: born to teenage parents with mental health and substance abuse issues, placed in a group home as a child, and later sent to the now-closed Glen Mills Schools, where Egan said Elliott was sexually assaulted by a guard. Elliott told Sanchez that he knew his actions were wrong, but that he was exposed to violence from a young age and almost viewed it as normal. He apologized to his victims, calling his actions messed up, but said: This is whats going on every day where Im from. This is what happens every day. Dont make it right, but for some reason I thought everything I did out there was for the right cause, he added. Sanchez did not buy that argument. You victimized and terrorized a whole community and innocent people who had nothing to do with gang activity, who had done no harm to anyone, he said. And Elliott smirked at times during the hearing, causing Sanchez to say it affirmed his decision to impose a significant penalty. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said afterward that Elliott should be under the damn prison. Youre looking at a guy whos a psychopath, hes a mass murderer. Lets call him what [he] is, Bethel said. U.S. Attorney David Metcalf said Elliott deserves every day that hes going to spend in prison. Were satisfied with the result here today, but its not a good day, Metcalf said. A good day would be one where Sgt. OConnor and the other victims were still here with us. The penalty Sanchez imposed was at the top end of a plea agreement that prosecutors reached earlier this year with Elliotts attorneys. Both sides had agreed to recommend a prison sentence of between 55 and 75 years. Still, the penalty was well below what Elliott had faced at one point during his prosecution: As recently as 2023, before Elliott had decided to plead guilty, then-U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero said her office was leaving open the possibility of seeking a death sentence. Why did Elliott kill OConnor? The shooting of OConnor occurred early on the morning of March 13, 2020, when SWAT officers went to the 1600 block of Bridge Street to arrest Elliott on a murder warrant for a homicide authorities believed he and another man Khalif Sears had committed a year earlier. As police climbed a flight of stairs toward Elliotts apartment, he started shooting toward the SWAT team, striking OConnor. Elliott was ultimately arrested while OConnor was taken to the hospital. Authorities also apprehended Sears and two other men in the apartment, which they said was littered with guns and drugs. Elliott, however, was the only person accused of shooting at police that morning. Within days, the case became engulfed in controversy. Then-U.S. Attorney William McSwain blamed District Attorney Larry Krasner for OConnors death, saying Krasners office had let Elliott off the hook a year earlier by dropping a drug case against him. Krasner denied that, saying the fate of the drug case was not significant because his office by then had already approved the more serious murder warrant. Months later, McSwain filed federal charges against Elliott and the others in the apartment at the time of the shooting. And three years after that, McSwains successor, Romero, announced an expanded racketeering case against Elliott, Sears, and two other men, accusing them of participating in a string of violent episodes to advance the interests of SG1700. What other crimes did Elliott commit? Beyond the murder of OConnor, prosecutors said Elliott and Sears killed Kaseem Rogers on Dec. 3, 2018; Tyrone Tyree on March 1, 2019; and Dontae Walker on Aug. 22, 2019. Two of the killings were over perceived beefs or arguments, prosecutors said, while the shooting of Tyree occurred as Elliott and Sears tried to rob him. And Elliott shot nine other people who survived, prosecutors said, including several who had nothing to do with Elliott or SG1700 such as a man who was sitting on his porch smoking a cigar when he was shot 10 times, and a woman driving her car through the neighborhood when Elliott opened fire, mistakenly believing a rival gang member was behind the wheel. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Stram on Wednesday read statements from several of those who were shot. One said she is all but certain to develop early arthritis in her right hand due to her bullet wound, while the man shot on his porch said he spent 18 months in the hospital after bullets tore through his head and neck. I wasnt in a gang, I wasnt selling drugs in the wrong place, the man said in his letter, according to Stram. I was simply on my porch smoking a cigar when you opened fire and changed my life forever. Both Elliott and Sears pleaded guilty in January. Elliott has also since been charged with assaulting another prisoner with a shiv while he was behind bars in a Brooklyn federal detention center. Elliott was the first of the SG1700 members to be sentenced. Prosecutors have recommended that his codefendant, Sears, face a prison term of 35 to 50 years. The two other men charged in the racketeering indictment Kelvin Jimenez and Dominique Parker were found guilty by a jury in March. And although neither was accused of even being present for OConnors killing, their decision to take their case to trial means they could face the stiffest penalties of all: Each faces a maximum sentence of life behind bars. Terri OConnor said after Elliotts hearing that she and her relatives were relieved to have this proceeding behind them. More than five years after the crime, she said, they can finally try to look forward. We get to live life and enjoy and take Jimmys memories with us, she said. He would be proud of where weve all been and what were doing to keep his legacy alive. Jesse Watters is the face of Fox News, for better or worse. Watters, a Philly native who grew up in Germantown and East Falls, began as a production assistant at the network in 2001 and is now one of its most-watched stars, drawing more viewers on any given night than conservative stalwarts Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham. Advertisement One of President Donald Trumps loudest cheerleaders, Watters, 47, is a youthful bomb-thrower, faithfully playing the hits on a network where all the opinion hosts bend over backward to paint the administration in a positive light. Brian Stelter, CNNs chief media analyst, has referred to Watters as the networks prime-time extremist." But Watters also has a playfulness and a willingness to poke fun at himself often through disapproving texts from his liberal Philly mom that some of the more self-serious hosts at Fox News lack. He has the snark of Bill OReilly, the conspiratorial thinking of Lou Dobbs, and the masculinity fixation of Tucker Carlson, said Dannagal Young, a University of Delaware professor who has studied the impact of humor and rage in political media. Think of him as 2025s Rush Limbaugh, just one thats succeeding in the televisual space because of his boyish good looks. Watters currently stars on two of the networks most-watched shows Jesse Watters Primetime and The Five, which he cohosts alongside Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino, and rotating Democrats Jessica Tarlov and Harold Ford Jr. The Five, basically the networks answer to The View, is Fox News most-watched show, averaging 3.8 million viewers last quarter. It was also the most-watched program on all of cable television, though that is becoming a less impressive feat each month due to the long-term trend of cord cutting. (Since May, more people in the U.S. have streamed television using services like YouTube and Netflix than watched broadcast and cable combined, according to Nielsen.) Jesse Watters Primetime also scored big with viewers, averaging 3.4 million a night during the second quarter of 2025, making it the networks second-most-watched show. Over at MSNBC, Rachel Maddow averaged about 2 million viewers a night, but her show airs only one night a week. CNNs most-watched prime-time show was Erin Burnett OutFront, which averaged just 610,000 viewers. Watters landed the networks coveted 8 p.m. slot in 2023 after Fox News fired Tucker Carlson, continuing a trend of elevating homegrown talent whose top loyalty is to the network and its pro-Trump, anti-Democrat programming strategy. Watters odd mix of interests was apparent on his show Tuesday night, which mixed unfounded conspiracy theories about former President Barack Obama with dating advice for men intimidated about approaching women. All while avoiding talk of Trumps connection with Jeffrey Epstein, which has been a growing controversy in Washington. Jesse is just the latest version of the time-tested Fox outrage genre what they call analysis programming that uses hyperbole and sarcasm to identify the latest threat to conservatives, fan the flames of the latest conspiracy theory, and continue the networks support of the MAGA agenda, Young said. Watters and Fox News currently facing a lawsuit over Trump call Watters and Fox News are currently facing a $787 million lawsuit from California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who claims the network and its most-watched host knowingly lied about the details of a phone call with Trump during the peak of immigration protests in Los Angeles. Newsom claims Watters knowingly lied about the timeline of his calls with Trump to defend the president. Newsom demanded a retraction and an on-air apology from Watters, who offered a half-hearted correction. We thought the dispute was about whether there was a phone call at all when he said without qualification that there was no call. Now Newsoms telling us what was in his head when he wrote the tweet, Watters said. He didnt deceive anybody on purpose, so Im sorry, he wasnt lying. He was just confusing and unclear. Next time, governor, why dont you say what you mean. Fox News had hoped the correction would persuade Newsom to drop his lawsuit. In a letter sent to Newsoms lawyers Friday and obtained by The Inquirer, Foxs lawyers, Torridon Law PLLC, called the lawsuit meritless and demanded it be dropped following Watters clarification. If the Governor fails to withdraw the lawsuit as pledged, Fox News will pursue all remedies available against Governor Newsom in his individual capacity not against his campaign account, the letter says. Our client cannot bring a frivolous lawsuit in his personal capacity and expect his donors funds to shield him from the financial consequences. Breaker Medias Lachlan Cartwright was first to report on the letter. Gov. Newsoms transparent publicity stunt is frivolous and designed to chill free speech critical of him, Fox News said in a statement. Why $787 million? Its the same amount Fox News agreed to pay Dominion Voting Systems to settle a defamation lawsuit centered on the networks false claims about the 2020 election. And Newsom does not appear interested in stopping his lawsuit. Discovery will be fun, Newsom said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times. See you in court, buddy. Not Watters first brush with controversy Like many Fox News hosts, Watters has a long history of making controversial statements followed by half-hearted apologies. Watters has promoted false theories about the 2020 election and was forced to walk back his praise of QAnon, a group of conspiracy theorists who believe Democrats and Hollywood celebrities are engaged in human trafficking and child abuse. He was also forced to walk back inappropriate comments about former Vice President Kamala Harris and attacks on Muslims and Arab Americans, and he took an abrupt two-day vacation in 2018 after making a sexually suggestive remark about Trumps daughter Ivanka. In 2021, Anthony Fauci called on Watters to be fired after the Fox News host directed a crowd of conservatives to ambush the former top White House adviser and go in for the kill shot. Less than a month later, Watters was promoted to prime time. I work at Fox. I wanna see disarray on the left, Watters said at the time on The Five. Its good for America. Its good for our ratings. Carlos Aviles (right), a pharmacy technician and president of Temple Allied Professionals, and Marty Harrison (left), a nurse and president of Temple University Hospital Nurses Association, speak during a PASNAP rally outside Temple University Hospital on Wednesday. Read more A loud bang from just outside Temple University Hospital rang through the emergency department, around the same time as a man burst in from the street and barricaded himself in a bathroom. People in the waiting area that afternoon, a relatively quiet Sunday in July, dove for cover. Staff quickly ushered patients into secured rooms. Advertisement An announcement came over the loudspeakers throughout the hospital: Active shooter code silver. It was just terrifying, said Marie LoPresti, who was on duty as the emergency departments head nurse and called 911. We didnt know who he was; we didnt know if he had a gun. The incident was defused within half an hour. Temple University Police took into custody a man who did not have a weapon. Police did not find evidence of a shooting outside the hospital. Shaken hospital staffers called for stronger security measures and more staff training at a rally Wednesday held outside the emergency department and organized by PASNAP, the union that represents Temple nurses and technicians. The union is in the process of negotiating new contracts for about 2,700 nurses and techs, and said safety will be among their top priorities. Hospital administrators acknowledged that episode was scary for those in the emergency department, but told The Inquirer that medical staff followed protocol to issue an alert at the first sign of danger. And campus police acted appropriately to confirm there was not an active shooter in the building. These types of scenarios are challenging, said Shane McDevitt, vice president of facilities at Temple University Health System. You can never prepare enough for them. While no one was hurt, nurses at one of Philadelphias busiest trauma centers say the incident highlights the routine dangers they are exposed to and that they feel unprepared to handle. Workplace violence is common in healthcare, with 81% of nurses reporting being punched, kicked, spat at or threatened in the last year, according to a survey by National Nurses United, the largest union representing registered nurses. Healthcare workers across the Philadelphia region have raised concerns about workplace safety at the areas hospitals. Active shooters at hospitals are rare, but are among the most serious safety events staff may encounter. In 2021, a certified nursing assistant fatally shot a coworker at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Inspira Medical Center in Vineland was briefly locked down in 2023 for reports of an active shooter, who died by suicide without harming anyone else. We dont expect Temple to stop the violence in North Philly, but we expect them to provide the safest environment possible for staff and patients, said LoPresti, who is part of the unions bargaining committee. READ MORE: I went home with blood all over me: At Philly hospitals, health-care workers face routine violence Nurses want more safety training Wednesdays rally drew about 50 Temple nurses, techs, and supporters, who gathered outside the hospital to demand better work conditions. That wasnt a special day. We get attacked, we get harassed, its unsafe, Carlos Aviles, a tech at Temple and president of Temple Allied Professionals, said to a crowd gathered at the corner of Broad and Ontario Streets. What are we going to do about it? Nurses said they want Temple to do more drills for active shooters and other situations they may encounter on the job. They also want Temple to increase police staffing inside the emergency department, and improve weapons detection technology. The emergency department has scanners to detect weapons, but they often miss knives and guns, said LoPresti, the veteran emergency department nurse working during the recent shooter scare. LoPresti said she has also asked administrators to enforce rules that ban people from congregating outside the emergency department doors. Often when a patient arrives with a gunshot wound, family and friends will gather outside to wait for news, sometimes setting up lawn chairs on the pavement. She thinks that shootings that have occurred so close to Temples doors were retaliation shootings targeting someone in the crowd. Temples emergency protocol Temples protocol is designed to empower staff members to act quickly in an emergency, said McDevitt, Temples vice president of facilities. Any staff member can issue an emergency alert that is sent within the hospital and to the administrative team, he said. Overhead announcements are aired repeatedly through the hospitals speakers every five minutes until the scene is deemed safe. We would rather them act immediately and err on the side of caution, McDevitt said. It is the police officers job to investigate whether the threat is legitimate. That means officers often respond to a call that, upon investigation, is not what was reported, said Jennifer Griffin, chief of police and vice president for public safety at Temple University. Through feedback from its safety committee, the hospital has transitioned to windows with bulletproof glass. Public entrances are monitored, and staffers use separate, locked entrances. The hospital includes questions about active shooter scenarios in training throughout the year, McDevitt said. After responding to the recent active shooter concern, police determined there was no threat and health system administrators sent a systemwide email clarifying what happened, Temple said. Staff were offered emotional support resources, and leadership visited the emergency department for a formal debrief. Immigration agents are seen on video as they arrest five Guatemalan men near 20th Street and Morris Street, in Philadelphia, July 6, 2025. Read more One week after chants of show your face echoed across the parking lot as more than a dozen, mostly masked ICE agents arrested 14 people at Super Gigante grocery store in Norristown, Democratic state lawmakers are preparing legislation to ban Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from wearing masks when making arrests or detainments in Pennsylvania. The use of the face coverings to make agents unidentifiable while making arrests in immigrant communities has become a national flashpoint in recent weeks, as Democratic lawmakers challenge President Donald Trumps efforts to make good on his campaign promise of mass deportations. It remains unclear whether state law would successfully dictate restrictions on federal ICE agents. Advertisement Its putting everybody at risk, because nobody knows whos who, said Stephanie Benson, an organizer with Unides Para Servir Norristown, who watched in the parking lot as masked agents, some wearing blue jeans, T-shirts and tactical vests, shuffled people into unmarked cars. Democratic state lawmakers and advocates worry more incidents they describe as marked by confusion and chaos will ensue as the federal government infuses an extra $75 billion into ICE, including $30 billion to support arrests and deportations. ICE operations continue to surge across the state. Agents arrested nearly 5,000 people in Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania between the start of the second Trump administration and late June. Between May 22 and June 26, average daily arrests doubled to 51 a day from their previous average of 26 a day. The states average monthly rate of removals from the United States has also soared since Trump took office, with an 81% increase from President Joe Bidens administration. That uptick comes as some polls show support slipping for the deportation agenda that helped Trump win the support of American voters in November. This month alone in Philadelphia, ICE officers have detained people at their homes, after asylum court appointments, and at expanded workplace enforcement checks. Concerns about safety amid increased detainments led two Venezuelan groups to drop out of Philadelphias July Fourth celebrations. Masking contributes to ICE officers general lack of formal identification, such as badge numbers, according to Peter Pedemonti, co-director of the New Sanctuary Movement. As a result, people dont know whos abducting their father, he said. The lack of clarity around individual identities, coupled with ICE officers general refusal to identify themselves when asked to do so, leads to uncertainty about the specific group or agency carrying out the operation, Pedemonti and Benson said. A lot of times [ICE agents] are impersonating police. They have police vests, they use sirens, even if its not a vehicle thats actually a police vehicle, Benson said. The Philadelphia Police Department works with federal agencies through several multiagency task forces, but no PPD officers work with ICE-led task forces, according to Sgt. Eric Gripp, a spokesperson for the department. PPD is currently reviewing its task force agreements to strengthen guidance to ensure that everyones roles remain clear and fully consistent with Mayors Executive Order 5-16, which limits local cooperation with civil immigration enforcement, he said. When asked for comment on the common practice of ICE agents wearing masks and plain clothes, Gripp responded, the operational decisions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement including decisions related to uniforms or tactical gear are solely at the discretion of that agency. In Philadelphia, people have taken advantage of ICE officers lack of clear identification by impersonating them to commit crimes. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner in June charged a man with ICE agent impersonation during a robbery in Northeast Philadelphia. Pedemonti said others have impersonated ICE agents in attempts to extort money from vulnerable immigrants. The soon-to-be-proposed bill, known as the Officer Visibility Act, is expected to require government agents in the state to wear official uniforms and badge numbers and prohibit face coverings unless they are used for medical reasons or warranted, undercover work. The proposal is part of efforts to increase public safety and public trust in law enforcement by providing transparency about officers identities, according to the bills authors, Rep. Paul Friel (D., Chester) and Rep. Rick Krajewski (D., Philadelphia). The legislation would tighten criminal penalties for impersonating law enforcement in violent situations, and tighten civil penalties for government officials concealing their identities, according to a July 17 memo. Lawmakers expect to introduce the bill in the coming weeks. This is the first step we can be taking to giving people some basic tools to defend their civil liberties, Krajewski said. Elsewhere in Harrisburg, state Sens. Nikil Saval (D., Philadelphia) and Amanda Cappelletti (D., Montgomery) are working together to propose similar legislation in the Senate. In an interview, Saval raised concern about what the increase in federal spending on immigration enforcement could mean for civil rights. There is a huge increase in recent funding to what is essentially a secret police force that is terrorizing our communities which to me, is reminiscent of Jim Crow, he said. Friel and Krajewski were inspired to work on the legislation by a bill moving through the California state legislature to make it a misdemeanor for law enforcement officers to wear masks while performing official duties. New York and Massachusetts lawmakers have also introduced similar pieces of legislation. It remains unclear to Krajewski whether or not federal ICE officers would defy a state law under the Trump administration. I cant speak with certainty that the federal government is going to obey our legislation because we have seen them defy orders regularly, but that doesnt mean that we shouldnt put out these positions and make statements and try and advocate, Krajewski said. ICE will continue allowing its officers to wear masks on operations, its director Todd Lyons told CBS News on Sunday. Im not a proponent of the masks, he said. However, if thats a tool that the men and women of ICE to keep themselves and their family safe, then I will allow it. Lyons called for elected officials to hold people accountable for doxxing or threatening ICE officers, in addition to introducing legislation to ban masks. If we had that kind of support and had those laws or regulations in place, that we can hold those folks accountable to give ICE agents and officers and other law enforcement officers the peace of mind that someone that does threaten their life or their families or doxes them will be held accountable, he said. But Benson says recording and photographing ICE agents has nothing to do with doxxing them. Were doing it to document civil rights abuses for immigrants and the broader community, she said. Elena Eisenstadt is an intern with the Pennsylvania Legislative Correspondents Association. She can be reached at eisenstadtelena@gmail.com. Gov. Josh Shapiro arrives in the spin room at the Convention Center following the debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, followed by one of his communications staffers, Press Secretary Manuel Bonder. Read more You can learn a lot about Gov. Josh Shapiro from his social media accounts. Or, at least, you can see what the potential presidential contender and his staff want you to know. From short clips in which he touts his support for raising the minimum wage and preserving abortion rights to videos in which he reacts to residents messages, the scope of the Pennsylvania governor offices social media operation has broadened significantly since Shapiro, a first-term Democrat, took office in 2023. Advertisement Shapiros social media machine is fueled by a staff that has nearly doubled in size since his predecessor, Gov. Tom Wolf, left office. Counting his communications, press, web, and social media staffers, 21 employees are dedicated to promoting Shapiros image, touting his achievements, and communicating his views as governor. By comparison, Shapiros 2026 reelection campaign team currently has just one full-time staffer, according to campaign finance reports. But Shapiro has leaned on other means to promote his message ahead of next years reelection campaign: his government-run communications team and his official government social media accounts. The state-funded teams have pumped out more than 120 videos on Instagram since June 1. Recent posts show Shapiro at the U.S. Open with a social media influencer, hanging out with chocolate characters at Hersheypark, and meeting newlyweds taking wedding photos outside the state Capitol. Another video shows Shapiro with a fading smile. The caption reads, POV: you just ate your last Uncrustable, referring to a popular PB&J snack that has been the subject of multiple recent videos on Shapiros accounts. The communications staff includes Shapiros communications director, press secretary, a press staff, and digital strategists who work on his social media accounts. There are multiple positions dedicated to outreach to social media influencers. Shapiro has also created a new Next Generation Engagement commission, mainly composed of county commissioners, meant to address the needs of younger Pennsylvanians by reviewing state programs that affect young people and making recommendations to the governor. It is also among the directors responsibilities to help communicate what the Shapiro administration is doing to help younger generations. Social media has become an increasingly popular option for politicians seeking to get their name in the public conversation. Philadelphia elected officials recently spent $2 million on billboards, television advertisements, and mailers. Democratic Mayor Cherelle L. Parker recently finalized a $120,000 contract with an Erie-based public relations firm, and City Council members spent nearly $200,000 on mailers to promote their work. National figures speculated to be considering a run for the White House in 2028, such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom, have been using the internet to get their names across the country. Newsoms official press office runs an X account that criticizes political opponents and promotes Newsoms political views. Shapiros social media use, as well as its cost, has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers and government watchdogs, who have argued it is not where taxpayer dollars should be spent. In total, Shapiros communications, press, and social media staff cost taxpayers nearly $3 million per year. Twelve of these staffers make more than $100,000 per year, with some earning as much as $190,000. Eric Epstein, founder of government watchdog group Rock the Capital, criticized that spending in a statement to The Inquirer, saying he sees Shapiros use of social media as more of a way for Shapiro to promote himself, rather than to communicate with the public, amid his rising national profile. The Governor should not be using tax dollars to promote his image and run for president, he said. The Governor should spend more time on the ground communicating to the legislature and get a budget done on time. Shapiros press secretary, Manuel Bonder, said in a statement to The Inquirer that the robust media team is part of an effort to better communicate with the public and make government services easier to access. He added that Shapiro has held more than 300 news conferences to communicate with Pennsylvanians directly since taking office. The Governor believes there should be no wrong door to access state government, and the states top priority should be serving Pennsylvanians and meeting people where they are online, through efficient services, and in their communities, Bonder said. Shapiro has separately established an office of digital experience, called CODE PA, with the goal of improving the states web presence and making government services easier to access. Earlier this year, Shapiro proposed hiking the offices funding in his budget proposal. The budget for the governors office as a whole increased 69% in Shapiros first 2 years in office, from just below $7 million during Wolfs last year in office to $11.6 million in the latest state budget. Shapiro in February proposed a further increase to $12 million for 2026. Commonwealth Media Services, the state agency that provides video, audio, and photography services for state agencies, including the governors office, has also grown since Wolf left office, from 24 to 32 staffers. Data provided to the Senate Appropriations Committee and shared with The Inquirer show that out of 1,180 requests from state agencies to Commonwealth Media Services, more than 1,000 came from the states executive branch, with 422 of the requests coming directly from the governors office. As lawmakers and Shapiro continue to negotiate the states annual spending this month, Republicans who control the state Senate have made it clear they want to see spending cuts to address the states multibillion-dollar budget deficit. And they are looking at Shapiros communications office as one place to find some dollars. State Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R., York) questioned the role of Shapiros communications staff and their use of social media during a Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing in March. She referenced videos by Shapiros team in which the governor dances with podcasters and another that depicts Shapiro as multiple video game characters. She criticized his social media use as frivolous, arguing it provides little value to taxpayers. Budget Secretary Uri Monson defended Shapiros social media use during the hearing, saying the governor is trying to get information out to as many people as possible in different ways. But Phillips-Hill said she sees it as a prime example of government overspending. In an interview with The Inquirer, Phillips-Hill criticized the amount it costs to run Shapiros communications teams, calling it inappropriate. Is this an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars? Because now hes hiring staff for showtime, when what we really need is substance, she said. She also questioned Shapiros use of TikTok, citing cybersecurity concerns due to the apps Chinese ownership. Phillips-Hill is the primary sponsor of a bill that passed the Senate last month that would ban state employees from installing TikTok on state-owned devices, an action some state agencies have already taken. Vincent DiFonzo is an intern with the Pennsylvania Legislative Correspondents Association. He can be reached at difonzo.vincent@gmail.com. The federal Office for Civil Rights prompted the Philadelphia School District to implement reforms in late 2024, after an investigation found multiple incidents of harassment that administrators had failed to address. That kind of protection is gone since the Trump administration gutted the OCR in March, writes AJ Ernst. Read more When a Philadelphia parent discovered their child was facing antisemitic harassment at school last year including Nazi salutes and swastikas they had a place to turn for help. The federal Office for Civil Rights stepped in, conducted an investigation, and in December 2024, forced the Philadelphia School District to implement reforms after finding over 200 incidents of harassment that administrators had failed to address. Less than three months later, that kind of protection offered by the OCR is essentially gone. Advertisement In March, the Trump administration gutted the federal office, firing nearly half its workforce and shuttering seven regional offices, including the one that covers Philadelphia. While officials maintain the office is still protecting childrens civil rights, the numbers tell a different story: complaints are up 9%, while resolved cases are down 40% in just the first months since the cuts. Families have been left stranded as skeleton staff buckle under mounting demands. This catastrophic rollback comes as stubborn inequalities remain entrenched in school systems. Without federal oversight, they can continue unchecked. Whats at risk In 2013-14, federal data revealed, among other findings, that Black students were nearly four times as likely to be suspended as white students. The Obama administration issued guidance, which was rescinded by the Trump administration, warning that such disparities could trigger investigations. Philadelphia, with high rates of racial disparities at the time, was among 52 major districts investigated, creating pressure to reform processes. As a result of initiatives like the school diversion program, and policies such as restricting suspensions for kindergarten to second graders, Philadelphia lowered its suspension rate from 11.5% in 2013 to 5.7% in 2023. It is unlikely any of it could have happened without the OCRs data and enforcement. Most places arent like Philadelphia Philadelphia collects and reports its data through accessible school profiles managed by the Division of Evaluation, Research, and Accountability. But researchers at Arizona State University found that only seven states Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Michigan, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee earned an A grade for that kind of data transparency. Thirty-four states, plus Washington, D.C., received a C or worse. For more than five decades, the Civil Rights Data Collection has captured data on students equal access to educational opportunities, collecting information disaggregated by race, gender, disability status, and English learner classification from all public schools across the United States. This data has empowered families and provided advocates with actionable information: which students were being denied access to advanced classes, which schools were overdisciplining students with disabilities, and which districts were systematically failing their most vulnerable populations. Now, that evidence-gathering infrastructure is crumbling, with education officials withdrawing the proposed 2025-26 data collection and providing no updates on its future. In places without transparent data, patterns of discrimination can easily go unaddressed. Utahs Davis School District doesnt publicly report data by race or demographic, and therefore allowed incidents of racial harassment to go unaddressed for years until a federal investigation exposed hundreds of documented slurs and physical assaults against Black and Asian American students. Going forward, Utahs inadequate data collection will be the only measure available unless families and advocacy organizations demand transparency and accountability from state and local authorities, and develop independent monitoring systems to fill the gaps. Another example is Louisiana, which has a suspension rate nearly twice the national average, but doesnt disaggregate its data by race (one of the reasons it earned a failing grade for transparency). Federal data have revealed that while Black students represent only 45% of enrollment, they are overrepresented in disciplinary actions accounting for 67% of suspensions, 69% of expulsions, and 68% of arrests. This kind of disparity persists in other states, such as Mississippi, South Carolina, and Alabama. The need for federal oversight becomes even clearer when you consider that corporal punishment explicitly designed to cause physical pain remains legal in 14 states, mostly in the South, where Black students are disproportionately affected by it. The Trump administration claims freedom as its motivation for disbanding OCR offices, but are students in the Davis School District less free to learn because federal investigators intervened to stop racial harassment? Should we expect states with deep-rooted inequality to stop addressing long-standing issues if they know the OCR cannot act? The administration has gone beyond staffing cuts its fundamentally changing how civil rights laws work. Recent policy changes eliminate disparate impact enforcement, meaning schools can no longer be investigated for policies that harm students of color unless officials prove intentional discrimination. This echoes Andrew Johnsons post-Civil War approach of federal withdrawal from civil rights enforcement, which helped usher in the Jim Crow era. When information disappears, so does accountability. Philadelphias progress shows whats possible when federal pressure prompts local change, but that model is at risk as federal oversight vanishes. Without data to expose problems and federal authority to address it, institutional discrimination can continue unnoticed and unchallenged. The future of educational equity depends on our willingness to notice, to challenge, and to demand data transparency from our schools. And that begins by restoring the kind of data collection and enforcement only the OCR can provide. AJ Ernst worked as a teacher and administrator in Philadelphia for 13 years and has his doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. Last week, President Donald Trump joined Sen. Dave McCormick and Gov. Josh Shapiro at Carnegie Mellon University to announce $90 billion of investment in Pennsylvania as a hub for energy and artificial intelligence. There was criticism, especially from those concerned about environmental impacts. But overall, the event spoke to the value of coordination among government, the business community, and higher education institutions in seeding a thriving economy. This formula works beyond AI, too. Advertisement Like the academic researchers and diverse companies gathered at CMU, international students and scholars are a vital ingredient in Pennsylvanias global economic leadership. Trump understands this. On the campaign trail, he pledged to ensure every international student would graduate with a green card. In June, he asserted that he has always been in favor of Chinese international students, who he observed are good for our schools and good for our country. At his best, the president distinguishes between competition with the Chinese government which was a core feature of last weeks event and other critical issues such as international student recruitment and talent development in the U.S. As we write this from opposite sides of Pennsylvania which hosts the fourth-largest population of international students from China we know we are all better off when Americans and Chinese learn, trade, research, and innovate together. Overall, Chinese presence in Pennsylvania is relatively small in comparison with other states. Still, from Philadelphia to Harrisburg to Pittsburgh, and across the state, Chinatowns, Chinese-owned businesses, and community organizations flourish as part of a broader population of Asian Americans, who make up a bit more than 3% of the commonwealth. The thousands of Chinese students and scholars who come to Pennsylvania to pursue scholarly opportunities contribute to our thriving regional communities and campuses. Even when alumni leave immediately after graduation, we benefit through stable trade and collaboration. In 1919, CMUs first doctoral graduate was Chinese international student Yisheng Mao. He returned to China to be the father of modern bridge engineering there, completing the Qiantang River Bridge in 1937. That year, China was an ally in the run-up to U.S. involvement in World War II. Shanghai became a safe haven for Jews fleeing Germany and Austria. In the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia regions, numerous Jewish families trace their ancestors refugee journeys across Europe, to Shanghai, then to the United States and Pennsylvania. People move to flee persecution, find stability, and seek opportunity. Societies prosper when they offer people stable guarantees of economic and democratic freedoms. Unfortunately, increasing suspicion, condemnation, instability, and visa denials undercut individual student opportunities and the market position of many Pennsylvania colleges and universities, which contribute billions to the commonwealth economy. But with basic government facilitation of legal exchange and travel, there are three things universities and colleges can do well to continue nurturing smart, peaceful exchange and economic growth. First, higher education institutions create and cultivate knowledge that clarifies reality, subjecting sloppy narratives to hard facts and critical analysis. We must rigorously analyze government actions and power politics while also understanding that we are all part of a shared global heritage. Chinese inventors first developed paper, the compass, and gunpowder. Those goods spread through that perennial human truth: people move, they trade, they seek opportunity. One of our states top exports mushrooms was first cultivated in China in the seventh century. In the United States, we were founded and have grown through immigration. Alumni who stay embody President Ronald Reagans insight that We lead the world because, unique among nations, we draw our people our strength from every country and every corner of the world. And by doing so, we continuously renew and enrich our nation If we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost. These and other truths undermine the false pretense of insisting it is us or them. Second, U.S. colleges and universities create conditions for people from diverse backgrounds to connect across real and perceived differences. A study of three decades of Chinese students in America demonstrated that the vast majority of alumni hold positive attitudes toward the U.S. More than 85% said they found Americans friendly and welcoming, and that they would choose to study here again if given the opportunity. Friendships and opportunities for collaboration result over time. These positive relationships support a third key function of higher education: research and innovation that address critical global challenges. Researchers rarely operate in isolation. The COVID-19 vaccine was developed through swift, global scientific collaboration, including at the University of Pittsburgh. This kind of innovation and cooperation is never inevitable; the World Economic Forum recently warned that deteriorating U.S.-China relationships threaten a major setback to global scientific progress. Against that warning, Shapiro and McCormick aim to make Pennsylvania a leader in AI and innovation. That aspiration will be advanced by building upon the commonwealths history as a place of thoughtful immigration, complemented by deliberate exchange of ideas and development of new knowledge in leading colleges and universities. We flourish when we identify clear goals and pursue them together. We must insist that our leaders, regionally and nationally, continue to facilitate safe and legal immigration, including opportunities for university students, researchers, and scholars. Eric Hartman is director of the executive doctorate in higher education management at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education. Jessica Sun is a higher education professional who has worked on international programs in the Pittsburgh region for more than a decade. Tourists lined up to see the Liberty Bell at Independence National Historical Park on July 4. 2024. Exhibits in the park and panels discussing the bell's history were flagged for review in accordance with a Trump administration order directing National Parks Service staff to identify language and historical depictions that inappropriately disparage Americans past or living. Read more At Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, the Trump administration will soon decide whether to remove displays addressing the history of slavery. The park is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and the Presidents House memorial that commemorates the nine enslaved people whom George Washington brought to Philadelphia from his home at Mount Vernon. Advertisement The site will play a key role in the nations 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026, which have received millions of dollars in state and municipal investment and are expected to attract large numbers of out-of-state visitors. The displays were flagged for review in accordance with an executive order from President Donald Trump directing National Park Service staff to identify language and historical depictions that inappropriately disparage Americans past or living, according to internal documents obtained by the New York Times. The order also directed the secretary of the interior to provide sufficient funding, as available, to restore Independence Hall ahead of the coming Semiquincentennial celebration. The Trump administration gave parks and historical sites until last week to submit materials for review. Last month, it also instructed staff to display QR codes and signs asking visitors to report inappropriate content. In the documents reviewed by the New York Times, Independence National Historical Park employees raised concerns about an exhibit panel discussing the Fugitive Slave Act of 1793, which required all states, including free states, to return enslaved people who had escaped from other states. They said an illustration depicting George Washingtons hands signing the act, while a group of white men attack four Black men in the background, may need revision. Another exhibit, about freedom and slavery at the Presidents House, was also submitted for review. Meanwhile, at the Liberty Bell, staff highlighted a panel discussing the bells extensive travels to expositions and celebrations around the country during the post-Reconstruction period, saying it referred to systemic and violent racism and sexism that existed at the time. Trumps executive order also called out Independence National Historical Park in particular, claiming that the Biden administration had sponsored training by an organization that advocates dismantling Western foundations and interrogating institutional racism and pressured National Historical Park rangers that their racial identity should dictate how they convey history to visiting Americans because America is purportedly racist. The Trump administration has said it will remove inappropriate content by Sept. 17. Managing Director Adam Thiel during graduation ceremonies for the police academy Class #402 of the Philadelphia Police Department and Temple University Police Department on June 17, 2024. Read more Philadelphia Managing Director Adam K. Thiel whose job entails overseeing agencies including the prisons, fire, water, and streets departments is taking a break from city government this summer to go on military leave, Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration confirmed Wednesday. Tiffany W. Thurman, Parkers chief of staff, said that the administration is supportive and proud that he serves his country. Thiel is scheduled to return to his job in the fall, Thurman said. Advertisement His military service to his country reflects very positively on the values of the Parker administration, she said. His military service makes him a better prepared and efficient managing director. Thiels last day on the job before going on leave was during the eight-day city workers strike that ended two weeks ago. The administration did not announce his departure. Michael Carroll, the deputy managing director for transportation and infrastructure, has replaced Thiel on an interim basis, Thurman said. The Managing Directors Office is as productive and efficient in providing services to residents as it has been since the beginning of Mayor Parkers administration, Thurman said. Thiel is a major in the Army Reserve, according to his LinkedIn profile. As a military government specialist (38G/5Y) in the U.S. Army Reserve, Major Thiel helps provide emergency management subject matter expertise to combatant commands and partner nations, Thiel wrote in his profile. Thurman declined to say where Thiel is on active duty, citing operational security reasons. The managing director is essentially the citys chief operating officer, and oversees almost all of the departments through which residents interact with city government. Thiel, who was fire commissioner under former Mayor Jim Kenney, became managing director in January 2024, when Parker took office. He joined the Army Reserve in August 2024, according to his LinkedIn. At the time of his appointment, neither Parker nor Thiel publicly mentioned that he might go on military leave during his tenure as managing director, a high-profile role that involves running everyday city services while also being front and center during emergencies. Parkers office did not respond to a question on whether the mayor was aware Thiel had planned to go on leave for military duties before she appointed him to be the No. 2 official in city government. He already has plenty on his plate. Thiel runs two consulting firms he founded Pantheon Global Strategies and FACETS and teaches courses at universities. Last year, while serving as managing director, he earned $305,000 in income from Pantheon and FACETS, and $7,000 from lecturing work at George Mason University, according to financial disclosure reports. That combined income was slightly higher than his $310,000 city salary last year. FACETS is publicly advertised as a fire safety consultancy. Thiel has refused to discuss Pantheons work in any detail or disclose its clients. This year, Thiel is listed as a candidate for a masters degree in philosophy in organizational dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania, according to the schools website. That would be his third graduate degree. Thiel is also listed as a health innovation fellow for the Aspen Institute, an Eisenhower Fellow, and an advisory board member for the UL Research Institutes, a fire safety organization. Last year, he disclosed about $2,500 in travel costs linked to those professional development roles. Our emotional attachment to cars stems from their role as extensions of the self. They carry our memories, represent our freedom, and often reflect our identity. This connection deepens when we start to relate to cars almost as if they have personalities of their own. Our shared experiences with them, the way they feel to drive, the sounds they make, and their appearance can all evoke emotions and shape how we see them, not just as machines but as companions in our lives, he said. Nose-to-tail collisions are the most common type of crash on our roads. Theyre expensive, occur frequently, but most importantly, many are preventable, Kennedy said. Many of the safety features drivers are turning off, like collision warning and automatic emergency braking, are really effective at preventing these types of crashes, along with many others including reversing into another vehicle or object such as a trolley or bollard. The aftermath of the event was witnessed by hotel security and police officers, who found Germani and Al-Khoury visibly distressed and bound on the shop floor. Despite later revelations that the event had been fabricated, Al-Khoury has consistently denied being part of the plan and has maintained that she was traumatised by the incident. The defence argued otherwise, but the prosecution urged the jury to believe her version of events, describing her account as sincere and credible. Professional Risk Underwriting (ProRisk) has announced its acquisition of Brisbane headquartered Xenon Underwriting, a property focused agency. A ProRisk media release said the deal will result in a combined business of 50 staff in four offices across Australia with a gross written premium (GWP) of more than $100 million. North Queensland is on the frontline of extreme weather, and were taking decisive action to be there for our customers when they need us most, he said. This new regional hub in Townsville and our fleet of disaster response hubs are game-changers. The dispute over Mr Dainton's evidence arose after he informed AMP he would be overseas with his partner and her family for much of the scheduled trial period, including a cruise and an 89th birthday celebration for his partners father. AMP sought to have him testify remotely via his laptop, but failed to issue a subpoena to compel his attendance - an omission that became a central issue in the courts ruling. According to some sources the average attrition rate for Australian businesses is about 18%, with some industries experiencing rates as high as 23%. Newberry said his firms relatively low rate can be attributed to positives including a supportive culture and manageable workloads. The importance of having dedicated and well-trained personnel with appropriate caseloads remains paramount regardless of State or Scheme, to ensure the best support for injured workers and employers, he said. The suspect fled the scene, but surveillance footage captured images of a silver Toyota Prius near the property around the time of the attack. Investigators traced the vehicle to Sarasota Pathology, a medical courier firm where Roberts had worked. The company later confirmed that Roberts, then serving as a courier supervisor, had no scheduled work or reason to be in Lake Wales at the time. In December 2024, First American Title Insurance Co. terminated its appointments with Peak Title Agency following the agencys failure to cooperate with an audit request. The regulator said the agencys noncooperation continued into March this year, when it did not respond to a DIFS notification about a routine audit. The agency allegedly failed to comply with an April order to produce financial records. What followed was years of navigating leadership through trial, error, and reflection. Looking back, Skantharaja said she grew in her role not by mastering perfection, but by embracing vulnerability: learning when to ask for help, how to build authentic relationships, and how to make decisions from a place of strength rather than fear. The growth was driven by a combination of renewal rights transactions and new underwriting teams that contributed to increased activity across its platforms. The GWP for the period was split between $452 million from the US and $438 million from international operations. This represents a 21.5% year-over-year increase in the US and a 5.4% increase internationally. The appellate panel ruled that the phrase any form of radiation was as broad and clear as it sounds. EMF radiation, they wrote, is radiation within the plain meaning of the term, and the exclusions use of any form left little room for argument. The court declined to apply interpretive doctrines that might have narrowed the exclusion, stating that no ambiguity existed in the first place. AXA XL has also continued to expand its excess casualty leadership across US regions. In January, the company promoted Richard Burggraf to head of excess casualty for the East Zone. Based in New York, Burggraf is responsible for underwriting umbrella and excess liability business with limits up to $50 million. That policy, however, only provided UIM coverage to people defined as insureds. In this case, since the named insured was a corporation, the policy specified that only individuals occupying a covered vehicle at the time of the incident qualified. The contract defined occupying as being in, upon, getting in, on, out or off a covered vehicle. ACE denied the claim on the basis that Rahimzadeh, on a bicycle, did not meet the definition. The acquisition is part of the companys continued expansion strategy in the region and adds to its portfolio of insurance and advisory services. The acquired book of business will be integrated into Hilb Groups Southeast operations, where it will contribute to the firms existing retirement and employee benefits offerings. A recent analysis by S&P Global Market Intelligence reveals that the pace of growth in the U.S. excess and surplus lines market slowed to 13.4% in 2024, down from 14.5% a year earlier. While growth stayed up in double digits in both years, the jumps paled in comparison to a 32.3% rate of growth recorded in 2021, according to the S&P GMI 2025 U.S. Excess & Surplus Market Report published in June. The E&S market continues to grow at a faster pace than the U.S. P/C industry as a whole, even as its pace of expansion slowed in 2024, said Tim Zawacki, principal insurance analyst, S&P Global Market Intelligence. Earlier this year, S&P GMI reported that overall P/C premiumsacross standard and E&S businessgrew by 8% in 2024. Focusing on E&S premiums, Zawacki noted that national growth in the E&S residential and commercial property lines moderated in 2024, increasing by 15.4%, compared to the over 20% year-over-year growth rates observed in each of the prior five years. Weakness in commercial property rates in catastrophe-exposed geographies could lead to a continued slowing in the E&S markets expansion in 2025, Zawacki said. In spite of the diminishing E&S growth last year, 2024 was still the sixth straight year of double-digit growth overall (across all lines), S&P GMI said in its 2025 U.S. Excess & Surplus Market report, which also shows changes in E&S market share and growth rates for each of the last 20 years, lists the top 25 E&S writers in 2024, and delivers information on leaders and 2024 E&S market share by line and state. For full-year 2024, the U.S. E&S direct premiums written reached nearly $100 billioncoming in at $98.2 billion across all lines, up from $86.6 billion in 2023 and $75.5 billion in 2022. As in prior years, the bulk of E&S premiums in 2024 were written within various liability coverages ($51.3 billion, or 52.2%), several property lines of business ($31.7 billion, or 32.3%), and commercial auto ($5.7 billion, or 5.8%). E&S premiums represented 9.5% of the U.S. total direct premiums written in 2024. Whats Driving the Slowdown? The line-of-business reports included in S&P GMIs analysis reveal that the 15.4% jump in E&S premiums for commercial property and homeowners lines in 2024 marked the slowest pace of growth since 2018 (9.3%). In 2023, the E&S property growth rate had surged to 40.6%. In contrast, E&S liability premium growth, after slowing to 4.3% in 2023, returned to double-digit growth in 2024. The overall 2024 E&S liability growth rate was 12.4% across four lines (other liability-claims made, other liability-occurrence, medical professional, and product liability). Analyzing top players in the various lines, S&P GMI found that Berkshire Hathaway Group, the second biggest E&S property writer (behind STARR Cos.)and the largest writer across all E&S linesactually shrunk its E&S property premiums 1.5% to $4.0 billion in 2024 across four property lines (fire, allied, commercial multi-peril/non-liability, and homeowners). Contributing to the decline, Berkshires E&S allied lines premiums fell by 17.1% to $1.5 billion, according to S&P GMIs calculations. In contrast, in 2023, Berkshires E&S premiums for allied lines soared by 66.4%. Across all writers, homeowners, the smallest of the E&S property lines, saw outsized growth of 45.2% in 2024, rising to $3.2 billion from $2.2 billion in 2023. This jump was fueled by an 86% increase in Californias domestic E&S homeowners premiums, which climbed to $962.1 million. Across all E&S property lines, geographies with significant exposures to hurricanes and wildfires reported the largest annual E&S growth rates last year, S&P GMI reported. Geographically, the S&P GMI analysis tracks the growth in each states share of E&S premiums relative to the total property market since 2019, finding changes of more than 10 percentage points in Hawaii, South Carolina, and California. Views of the 2025 E&S Property Market Separately, at the S&P Global Ratings 41st Annual Insurance Conference in early June, specialty insurers writing commercial property on E&S paper discussed 2025 changes in the market and their appetites for E&S commercial property risks. Marc Adee, chair and chief executive officer of Crum & Forster Holdings Corp., highlighted recent market movement toward shared and layered business, which he said generally has broader terms and tends to be cheaper. The push to write this business occurred even after the January 2025 fires in California had put a fair dent in a lot of carriers resultswhen a subdued approach to the market would have been anticipated. The speed with which that market moved down might indicate that maybe some of the people that were moving the capacity from homeowners found something they liked better on the commercial lines side, Adee said. But that market moved hard and fastand in a strange way, he suggested, later encouraging investors and analysts at the conference to weigh what risk models are showing against how the market is moving. The different versions of the models keep creeping up the return periods. While modeled expected losses are trending in the upward direction, commercial property rates are going down. I would suggest that doesnt make a lot of sense other than just theres a lot of capital chasing, and not as much business as [carriers] might want, he said. Its just an interesting moment on the commercial property side[and its] a little bit of a head-scratcher why people find that as attractive as they do at the moment. C&F, he said, dialed back a lot on property just within the last quarter, adding that E&S companies can turn on a dime. Carl Lindner III, co-chief executive officer of American Financial Group, reported that AFG writes a broad range of property in different parts of its specialty businesses. I think overall after quite a few years of increases that our property books are pretty adequate. Were still getting price increases that exceed loss ratio trends on a good number of those businesses. [But] there are some businesses, on the E&S side, where prices are more flat, he said. As much as anything, were trying to get the proper insurance-to-value where we can. That really adds to the profitability of property lines. Lindner continued: Were not a homeowners writer, and traditionally weve had lower relative catastrophe volatility on the hurricane and earthquake side than our peers. Im a Christian, and if you think God can do whatever he wants wherever he wants with whatever frequency, we think its hard to really adequately price coastal property and things like earthquake, he said, reporting that AFGs 1-in-500-year exposure in hurricane and earthquake is roughly 2% of equity. Were not as regulated, and I think we can pick and choose how we want to write property. While AFG will write coastal and earthquake, the choice to write that property business might be made when its part of a larger book of business, he indicated. Back to the 2024 Leaderboards Both AFGs P/C insurance subsidiary, Great American Insurance Group, and Fairfax Financial Group, which includes C&F, were among the top writers of E&S business across all lines in 2024, according to S&P GMI, although neither showed up among the top 10 for any of the property lines analyzed. Both groups grew overall direct E&S written premiums by about 9% last year. Great American ranked No. 22 in overall E&S premiums with about $1.4 billion reported for the year. Fairfax, which includes Allied World and Odyssey Res Hudson in addition to the C&F companies, ranked third with $4.4 billion. Ranking above Fairfax are Berkshire and AIG, with $8.5 billion and $5.6 billion in 2024 direct E&S premiums, respectively. (Editors Note: S&P GMIs U.S. E&S ranking does not include Lloyds.) Among growing E&S writers, Berkshire recorded the lowest overall growth rate at 0.8% last year, while two top 25 E&S insurersMunich Re and Zuricheach reported E&S premium drops. The declines pushed each down six spots in the rankings, with Munich falling to 20th and Zurich to 23rd. Retaining its second-place spot on the overall ranking (and a lead rank in product liability), AIG saw its 2024 E&S premium leap nearly 13% in 2024, following a 9% jump in 2023. In terms of overall E&S growth, the biggest sprinters in 2024 were The Hartford and Chubb, each growing around 20%, followed by Kinsale, Travelers, and W.R. Berkley. W.R. Berkley, with $3.8 billion of its $4.2 billion 2024 E&S direct written premiums coming from the four liability lines analyzed by S&P GMI, became the largest E&S liability writer, surpassing Berkshire, the report notes. Combining growth rates from the latest S&P GMI analysis of E&S leaders with those in a report published last year at the same time (based on 2023 writings), Carrier Management finds that the groups with the biggest overall growth rates across the two-year period were Starstone, Travelers, Kinsale, Starr Cos., and AXIS. S&P GMIs Methodology The S&P GMI E&S report is derived from data running the S&P Global Market Intelligence E&S market share templates, P&C-Market Share (All exhibits) and P&C-Market Share (E&S Lines), the report notes in an introduction explaining the methodology. Template results are based on U.S.-domiciled entities that submit regulatory statements to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and excludes so-called alien surplus lines insurers that are domiciled outside the U.S. but write domestic business, including certain Lloyds of London syndicates. According to S&P GMI, the data is derived from Schedule T of annual and quarterly statutory statements for individual entities to identify those companies that list their status as not licensed, eligible surplus lines, or domestic surplus lines insurer. The data was compiled on April 17, 2025. This article was originally published in Carrier Management, Insurance Journals sister publication. Topics USA Trends Excess Surplus Pricing Trends AIG On March 14, 2024, I made a blog post titled Do You Have The Right Kind of Insurance? The article was initiated by an email I received through my website from a professional photographer who claimed that one of his photographs was posted on my website without his permission. I was told that, to stop the legal process that had already begun for copyright infringement, I should deposit bitcoin or ethereum funds in a crypto wallet address. The email smelled intensely of being a scam, so I started to investigate the claim. First, I determined that the photographer was indeed a real person and, according to one news account, he had actually (and successfully) sued someone for copyright infringement. So, I contacted the photographer and forwarded the email to him. Literally within minutes, he responded with, Sorrywe are both victims of phishing. Anything that requests payment via bitcoins is going to be a scam. In my blog post, I said, I have photos on my website, but they are either license-free images provided through the WordPress platform or, in a few instances, photos for which I received express permission to reproduce. What I learned recently is that using license-free or royalty-free images is not a guarantee of immunity from a copyright infringement claim. On May 23 of this year, I received an email from someone at PicRights International Inc. alleging that I had posted an image owned by Agence France-Presse (AFP). They asked for proof that I had licensed a photo of five penguins that was copyrighted by AFP. If I could not produce such proof, they demanded that I remove the image immediately from my website AND pay, via credit card or PayPal, $534 for the past use of the image on a blog post titled Insurance Is NOT a CommodityReal Life Example #2,146: Acquired Autos. So, as before, I initiated my own investigation and found that PicRights had initiated such actions against a lot of people, based on information I found in a Google search. One individual claimed he refused to pay and was hit with a lawsuit that cost him $7,000 in attorney fees to settle. The information I found led me to believe this might be a legitimate claim. PicRights is a Canadian-based firm that provides licensing compliance services to intellectual property owners. AFP is a French International news agency with locations around the world. So, the organizations involved in this matter appeared to be legitimate. The email was also very detailed and included attachments and links for resolving the claim. In addition, several days later I received a hard copy of the email in the form of a letter that was dated May 21, 2025. So, along with other information I had gathered, I concluded that this was not a scam but rather a real claim for copyright infringement because I had not licensed the image from AFP. Over the years, I have published literally thousands of articles, seminar manuals, and six books. I have never deliberately and knowingly included any copyrighted material without express permission. Sometimes, others have allowed me to use their material gratis with an attribution, such as some photos in my book 20/20 Vision: Why Insurance Doesnt Cover the COVID 19 Pandemic. In other instances, Ive actually paid to reproduce images. For example, in my book Presentation Skills for the Unprofessional Speaker, I included several cartoons for which I paid a fee to reproduce. In a string of correspondence with the representative from PicRights, I explained that any unlicensed use of the AFP photo was unintentional on my part. I knew that was immaterial from a legal standpoint, but I was looking for a little sympathy. And, not only was my misuse innocent, but I also had reason to believe it was permissible. WordPresss website touts the benefit of royalty-free images from Unsplash, Pixaby, Pexel, and other sources that change over time. What I discovered that meant was that I dont have to pay WordPress, Unsplash, Pixabay, etc., for such images but that doesnt mean I dont have to pay someone else if a copyrighted image is posted on one of the sources. This isnt clear in the terms and conditions on both the WordPress or Unsplash websites. I contacted both WordPress and Unsplash multiple times and never got a response from either of them. In addition, the name of the person who submitted the photo to Unsplash was shown on their website and I tracked her down. According to the short bio on Unsplash, she is a professional wildlife photographer that has traveled the world. She told me via email that this was HER photo, but when I told her that PicRights disputed that, she never responded to subsequent emails. I made a final appeal to PicRights, again explaining that I myself had been the past victim of people deliberately taking presentations I had made and delivering them as their own and others incorporating significant passages from a book of mine without attribution. However, in this case, once again, I felt like I was an innocent victim and that the entity that should be pursued is Unsplash and/or WordPress, who provided the platform that enabled the distribution of intellectual property without a valid license. Unfortunately, my appeal fell on deaf ears, but PicRights was agreeable, under the circumstances, to reducing the $534 claim by 30%. Long story short, I settled the claim and moved on even though I felt like the victim of shake-down. So, what does this have to do with insurance and risk management? First of all, you can insure the copyright infringement peril. However, such policies may have a deductible and, otherwise, is it worth it to file a $300-plus claim? Second, there are other risk management approaches that can be used. In my case, looking to the future, I chose Avoidance. I spent a long day deleting every image on my website that I had downloaded through the WordPress platform. I also practice loss prevention by being more diligent to ensure I dont even innocently incorporate the intellectual property of others in anything I produce. Do you or your employer have a website that uses royalty-free images? If so, be aware that there are organizations using image search apps and even more sophisticated bots to patrol the internet. Have you had an experience similar to mine? If so, feel free to share your story in the Comments section or send an email. Finally, Id be interested in what you think about this practice of going after the little guy. Recently, I spoke at a conference on ethics, and one of the issues I discussed was that an act can be legal but unethical or arguably ethical but illegal. In my case, this was legal, but was it ethical or moral? A 2-month-old law in New Hampshire that makes it harder to sue gunmaker Sig Sauer was discussed in court Monday, but it hasnt yet been incorporated into the latest case accusing the company of negligence. Attorneys for Sig Sauer argue the law should apply to the case, filed in March, even though the law didnt exist at the time. Lawyers for the plaintiffs disagree, saying the law has zero implication and only applies to future lawsuits against the gunmaker The law was created by the Republican-led Legislature in response to mounting lawsuits faced by the gunmaker over its popular P320 pistol. The lawsuits say the gun can go off without the trigger being pulled, and many of the plaintiffs are current and former law enforcement officers who say they were wounded by the gun. Sig Sauer, which is headquartered in Newington and employs over 2,000 people in the state, said the gun is safe and the problem is user error. Several large, multi-plaintiff cases have been filed since 2022 in New Hampshires federal court, representing nearly 80 people who accuse Sig Sauer of defective product design, marketing, and negligence. Thats in addition to lawsuits filed in other states. They say the P320 design requires an external mechanical safety, a feature that is optional. The most recent New Hampshire case, representing 22 plaintiffs in 16 states, was filed in March. A judge heard arguments Monday on Sig Sauers motions to dismiss the lawsuit or break it up and transfer it to districts where the plaintiffs live. Judge Joseph LaPlante, who has yet to rule on the motion, mentioned the new law, which prohibits product liability claims against Sig Sauer and other gun manufactures based on the absence or presence of the external safety and several other optional features. Claims can still be filed over manufacturing defects. Doesnt this new law make it more advantageous for you to keep this case here? he asked an attorney for the gunmaker, Christopher Monson. After Monson said Sig Sauer hasnt yet prepared a formal filing related to the new law, LaPlante pointed out a possible problem with the wording of the laws effective date. The law says it shall apply to cases filed on or after May 23, and that it shall not affect any claim that has been fully adjudicated, settled, or dismissed before that. It does not, however, specify whether pending cases are affected. I know youre not making the argument yet, but youre going to, so it makes me wish someone took a closer look at that before passing it, he said. New Hampshire was the chosen location because federal rules allow lawsuits against a company in its home state, the plaintiffs attorneys say. Those lawsuits have been assigned to one federal judge in Concord. Sig Sauer is trying to decentralize the case, they say. Sig Sauer has prevailed in some cases. It has appealed two recent multimillion-dollar verdicts against it, in Pennsylvania and Georgia. A judge recently allowed the Pennsylvania verdict to stand, but vacated $10 million in punitive damages awarded to the plaintiff. Photo: A Sig Sauer P320 handgun is held by a Maine gun shop owner, Tuesday, June 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits New York Citys former interim police commissioner has filed a $10 million defamation claim against Mayor Eric Adams for reportedly suggesting he was mentally unfit for the job of top cop. The filing comes less than a week after the ex-commissioner, Thomas Donlon, sued Adams and his top deputies, accusing them of operating the department as a criminal racket that rewarded unqualified loyalists and punished whistleblowers. Donlon said he was sidelined for trying to clean up the corruption. After that lawsuit was filed, Adams privately told members of a nonprofit business advocacy group at a meeting that hed fired Donlon, 71, from his brief stint as commissioner last fall because he was rapidly deteriorating mentally, according to attendees. Donlon cited news reports about those comments in his legal claim. The departments former top spokesperson, Tarik Sheppard, who was also named in Donlons lawsuit, told reporters that his former boss was going through some cognitive issues and believed there was this conspiracy against him. Their comments amounted to a defamatory public character assassination intended to weaponize mental health to silence a whistleblower, Donlons attorney, John Scola, said Monday. A spokesperson for Adams dismissed the allegation as yet another frivolous attempt to seek compensation at the taxpayers expense after Mr. Donlon was rightfully removed from the role of interim police commissioner. Donlon, a former FBI official, was appointed by Adams in September to lead a department reeling from overlapping federal investigations and high-level resignations. He was replaced by the current commissioner, Jessica Tisch, in November. During his short tenure, federal authorities searched Donlons home for decades-old documents that he said were unrelated to his work at the department. He has not been publicly accused of wrongdoing in connection with that search. In his short time as commissioner, Donlon said he uncovered systemic corruption by members of the mayors inner circle, including a scheme to reward unqualified loyalists with lucrative promotions in exchange for political favors. In his lawsuit, Donlon accused Sheppard of misappropriating the commissioners rubber stamp signature to give himself a raise, then threatening to kill Donlon when confronted about it. Sheppard, who left the department in May, has denied that allegation. In a statement last week, a spokesperson for Adams, Kayla Mamelak Altus, described Donlons claims as absurd. These are baseless accusations from a disgruntled former employee who when given the opportunity to lead the greatest police department in the world proved himself to be ineffective, she said. The defamation claim adds to a recent spate of litigation brought by police officals against Adams, focusing scrutiny on his leadership as he seeks re-election on a platform emphasizing managerial competence and public safety. Earlier this month, four high-ranking former NYPD officials brought separate lawsuits accusing Adams and his deputies of allowing rampant corruption and cronyism within the police department. In response to those suits, a spokesperson for Adams said the administration holds all city employees including leadership at the NYPD to the highest standards. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. A man with a history of arrests at pro-Palestinian protests was charged Monday with setting fire to 11 New York City police vehicles last month. Jakhi McCray, 21, of Brooklyn pleaded not guilty to arson in U.S. District Court. A criminal complaint unsealed Monday said McCray was recorded on surveillance video scaling a fence to a private lot for reserve New York Police Department vehicles in Brooklyns Bushwick neighborhood shortly before 1 a.m. on June 12. A police officer arrived about a half hour later to find the vehicles on fire and the suspect fleeing through a hole in the fence, it said. The complaint said a lighter and a pair of sunglasses containing McCrays fingerprints were found at the scene, along with fire starters that had been placed under some undamaged vehicles. Police estimated the replacement cost of the vehicles at $800,000. McCrays attorney, Ron Kuby, said his client, whom he described as an activist, was ordered released on the arson charge but remained in police custody on a separate misdemeanor count in Manhattan. After the vehicles were torched, Mayor Eric Adams suggested the suspect was connected to protests in Los Angeles, New York and elsewhere over the Trump administrations immigration enforcement agenda. Setting police vehicles ablaze is not a form of protest it is a federal crime, Joseph Nocella Jr., U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said in a news release Monday. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics New York Law Enforcement A climate change case against Italian energy group Eni can continue, the countrys top appeals court has ruled, in a jurisdiction case that had been raised by environmental groups Greenpeace Italia and ReCommon. The judgment, which the two organizations published on Tuesday, affirms that Italian courts have jurisdiction to hear climate litigation cases, including those involving emissions from Enis foreign subsidiaries. This historic ruling confirms that climate justice is possible in Italy, Greenpeace Italia and ReCommon said in a joint statement. The organizations originally filed suit in May 2023, alleging that Enis decades-long fossil fuel operations contributed significantly to climate change, causing both current and future damage. They asked the court to ascertain Enis responsibility for past and future environmental harm and also wanted to force the energy group and its key investors to rethink their climate strategy. State lender CDP which owns stakes in groups deemed strategic by the government and the ministry of finance were named as co-defendants as they own a combined 31.8% of Eni. In June last year Greenpeace Italia and ReCommon asked the top appeals court for clarification on climate litigation, to be sure that the Rome court has jurisdiction on such cases. After this ruling, the case will return to the Rome civil court. Eni said it was satisfied with the decision. The proceedings can finally resume before the court of Rome, where the unfounded theories put forward by Greenpeace and ReCommon regarding the alleged responsibility of Eni for climate change-related damages will be dismantled, the energy group said. (Reporting by Francesca Landini; editing by Alvise Armellini and David Holmes) Munich Re has named Dr. Christoph Jurecka (50) as chairman with effect from Jan. 1, 2026, succeeding Dr. Joachim Wenning (60), who has decided to retire at the end of the year. Jurecka has been with the group since 2011, initially as a member of the Board of Management of ERGO Group AG. In 2019, he joined Munich Res Board of Management as chief financial officer. Succeeding Jurecka as CFO is Andrew Buchanan (47) who has been appointed to the Board of Management, effective Jan. 1. Originally from South Africa, Buchanan joined Munich Re in 2011 and has been CFO of the companys reinsurance field of business since 2017. In a separate appointment, Robin Johnson (57) has been named to the Board of Management, with effect from Aug. 1, 2025. He will assume the new role of Munich Res chief technology officer (CTO). Originally from the United Kingdom, Johnson has been with the group since 2017 as chief information officer for the reinsurance field of business. In 2023, he assumed an additional role as CTO on the Board of Management of ERGO Group AG. Johnson is also chair of the Board of Management of ERGO Technology & Services Management AG. Munich Re said that Wenning announced that for personal reasons he does not wish to continue in his role on the Board of Management beyond Dec. 31, 2025. He instead has decided to retire upon completion of the Ambition 2025 strategy program. (With its group Ambition 2025, Munich Re has specified a series of financial targets for the next five years.) The Supervisory Board expresses its gratitude to Joachim Wenning both for his outstanding performance over the decades he has worked at Munich Re and for his eight-year tenure at the helm, according to Dr. Nikolaus von Bomhard, chair of the Supervisory Board, in a statement. Dr. Wenning will be succeeded by Christoph Jurecka who has extensive experience in all primary insurance and reinsurance activities of the group in addition to his recognised expertise in finance. The changes to the Board of Management set the course for Munich Res sustained success, von Bomhard continued. The 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a judgment in favor of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and against Omaha, Nebraska-based Werner Trucking on July 10, the EEOC announced last week. The EEOCs lawsuit alleged Werner violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when it refused to hire a qualified deaf truck driver because he was deaf. In September 2023, a Nebraska jury agreed and awarded $75,000 in compensatory damages and $36 million in punitive damages. The U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska entered judgment in favor of EEOC, reducing the jurys award to the statutory cap of $300,000 and awarding back pay and prejudgment interest. The district court also ordered injunctive relief requiring Werner to report certain information about deaf applicants to the EEOC. Werner appealed to the circuit court, arguing the district court erred by: granting a directed verdict on the issue of causation; granting summary judgment in EEOCs favor on certain affirmative defenses; making several adverse evidentiary rulings against Werner; denying Werners motions for judgment as a matter of law; granting injunctive relief, and awarding prejudgment interest. The appellate courts thorough opinion systematically analyzed each point the company raised on appeal. [D]iscerning no error, the courts three-judge panel unanimously affirmed the judgment in its totality. The appellate decision caps almost seven years of litigation. The EEOC filed suit (EEOC v. Drivers Mgmt, LLC and Werner Enterprises, Inc., Case No. 8:18-cv-00462) in U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska in 2018. As in all EEOC cases, the agency first attempted to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its administrative conciliation process. Topics Trucking The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plans to reverse its scientific determination that greenhouse gas emissions endanger public health, removing the legal foundation that underpins all major climate regulations, two sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters. Reversal of the endangerment finding would gut one of the most consequential federal standards that had enabled the U.S. to tackle climate change by regulating vehicles, industries, and energy-producing facilities that emit heat-trapping greenhouse gases. Without the finding, the EPA could more easily undo major regulations limiting greenhouse gas emissions, the sources said. An EPA spokesperson said the agency sent its proposal for reconsidering the endangerment finding to the White House Office of Management and Budget for review on June 30 and it is being reviewed by other federal agencies. The proposal will be published for public notice and comment once it has completed interagency review and been signed by the Administrator, an EPA spokesperson said in an email. The Washington Post first reported on the decision. The International Court of Justice on Wednesday issued a landmark advisory opinion saying greenhouse gas emissions pose an existential threat to the world and countries must cooperate on concrete emission reduction targets. One source said the proposal would focus on EPAs legal authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, not the scientific basis for it. Lawyers have said that challenging the scientific basis of the finding would be difficult because the body of evidence that humans are causing climate change is unequivocal. It would be a shocking dereliction of a clear statutory duty to protect the public and an indefensible denial of overwhelming science. Also a national embarrassment, said Sean Donahue, a lawyer with Donahue, Goldberg & Herzog, who has represented environmental groups in cases before the Supreme Court. The U.S. is the largest historical greenhouse gas emitter and currently the No. 2 emitter after China. The U.S. Supreme Court, in its landmark Massachusetts vs. EPA case in 2007, said the EPA has authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and required the agency to make a scientific finding on whether they endanger public health. In 2009, the EPA under former President Barack Obama issued a finding that emissions from new motor vehicles contribute to pollution and endanger public health and welfare. It was upheld in several legal challenges and underpinned subsequent greenhouse gas regulations. The EPA declined to take action on the endangerment finding during President Donald Trumps first term as industry raised concerns. The current Trump administration set its sights early on the endangerment finding. In January, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin told his confirmation hearing the agency has authority but not an obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. In March, the EPA launched a review of the finding, obeying a day-one executive order by Trump. White House budget director Ross Vought said the review was long overdue because the finding had led to regulations that he said harmed the economy. Zeldin announced over two-dozen de-regulatory actions aimed at driving a dagger straight into the heart of the climate change religion. Topics Pollution The Texas Senate is doubling down with its attempt to ban hemp-derived THC, setting up another showdown with the House, where lawmakers are more amenable to regulating the substance than eliminating it from recreational use. Senate Bill 5 by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, would create a blanket ban on products containing any detectable amount of any cannabinoid other than cannabidiol and cannabigerol, better known as CBD and CBG, non-intoxicating components of cannabis. This bill would eliminate the majority of hemp products, including those that are legal under the federal definition. The bill would make the manufacturing, delivering or possessing with the intent to provide consumable hemp products a third-degree felony offense, as well as create misdemeanor offenses for providing consumable hemp by courier, delivery, or mail service. Possession of hemp products will be considered a misdemeanor offense. However, a person caught illegally possessing the products for the first time will not face charges under the bill. The bill passed the Senate State Affairs Committee unanimously on Tuesday and advanced to the full chamber. Perry said that the state has tried to regulate hemp, but its not being enforced. We will regulate it by banning it because we have tried regulation, said a visibly frustrated Perry during Tuesdays hearing on the bill. Gov. Greg Abbott has asked lawmakers to prioritize hemp regulatory issues during the 30-day special session that started on Monday. SB 5 is essentially a revival of Senate Bill 3 from this years regular legislative session, which lawmakers passed but Abbott vetoed. Abbott in his veto urged lawmakers to instead regulate hemp sales similarly to liquor sales, by prohibiting sales near places frequented by children, and prohibiting sales to anyone under the age of 21, with strict penalties for any retailer that fails to comply. The hemp industry has largely been amenable to these restrictions. Although reports circulated during the hearing on Tuesday suggesting that Abbott had suddenly changed his mind and wants a full ban, his press secretary Andrew Mahaleris said the governor supports a ban for those under 21, with a full ban on extraordinarily dangerous synthetic products. Adults should be able to access heavily regulated, nonintoxicating levels of hemp, and there should be strict legal enforcement of hemp that exceeds 3.0 milligrams total THC per serving, he said in the statement. The Governor will continue working with the legislature to establish a framework that meets those goals. Abbotts veto came after immense pushback from hemp supporters, including veterans and chronically ill people, who said hemp has been a cheaper and more accessible alternative to the medical marijuana program. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who was a large supporter of a THC ban, lambasted the veto as an attempt to legalize adult-use cannabis. During the hearing, several senators took the opportunity to take shots at pro-hemp supporters, accusing them of using veterans as a battering ram to protect an illegal market. Its just slimy and dishonest, said Sen. Bob Hall, R-Edgewood. Hall and others started to question and encourage law enforcement to begin arresting hemp consumers and retailers without the passage of SB 5, since this was an illegal market. Steve Dye, Allen police chief who has pro-actively cracked down on hemp in his city, said not many police chiefs want to go after hemp due to potential lawsuits and not many district attorneys want to prosecute these substances, but he believes a ban will force many businesses to close, making it easier to control hemp. It would take decades, in our opinion, and millions of millions of dollars to hire and train agents to understand chemistry, potency threshold, lab testing and labeling compliance, and they will never be able to keep pace with the retailers, wholesalers and shippers, Dye said. Other lawmakers called hemp products gas station heroin, suggested that the Uvalde shooter might have had mental problems due to marijuana usage, called retailers modern day trap-houses, and indicated that THC might cause dementia in older people. Its especially concerning given your recent investment in the dementia institute of Texas. Itd be counterproductive to fund dementia prevention while also expanding access to products that may increase dementia risk, said Lindy McGee, a member of the Texas Pediatric Society. Perry, throughout the hearing, emphasized that he needed a strong showing of support to implement this ban, suggesting police chiefs encourage school district leaders to support the effort and encourage other groups to talk about the damage caused by THC in hopes of reaching Abbott. Perrys call comes after months of massive response from THC supporters about the damages a ban would do to the economy and to ailing Texans, many of whom signed up to speak on Tuesday. Ramona Harding, a Navy veteran, told lawmakers about how she was raped while in the service, leading to her drug and alcohol addiction. After her two brothers died from alcohol poisoning, her family and medical professionals recommended she move to hemp, and she says its the only thing keeping her alive. If you pass this, I dont know what I am going to do. I promised my husband I wouldnt kill myself, she said. Other veterans accused lawmakers of betraying their conservative values and dismissing polls that show a majority of Texans dont want a ban. This is turning Texas into a nanny state, said Mitch Fuller, a representative for Texas VFW. This is about the alcohol lobby and the pharmaceutical lobby. You want to talk about poison. Pharmaceuticals are the poison. Farmers, lawyers, retailers, parents, real estate agents, and others testified before lawmakers, taking exception to how they have been described by Perry and others. They said a ban restricts the freedoms of Texans and goes against the spirit of the state. We followed every rule, food grade standards, lab testing, licensing and more, and now we are being accused of targeting children, working with cartels, and being terrorists, said John Elmore, a hemp farmer in Texas. As a Texan, I never expected this level of misdirection from people we were supposed to trust. Some hemp advocates resigned themselves to the prospect of another ugly fight this special session. I am not here with any naivety. I know I am not going to change your minds, said Zach Crow, an attorney who represents businesses operating in hemp and cannabis markets. But marijuana and cannabis are not the boogieman you are making it out to be. My clients dont sell THC to children, period, and we would like to see those people in jail. This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2025/07/22/texas-thc-senate-ban-abbott-hemp/. The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org. Photo: Photo: Texas Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, speaks during a public hearing on his bill to ban THC at the Capitols Senate Chambers on Tuesday. Credit: Ronaldo Bolanos/The Texas Tribune Topics Texas Politics General Motors Insurance announced this week it has expanded to three more states: Arkansas, Colorado and Louisiana. General Motors Insurance is available for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and/or Cadillac vehicles with a model year 2016 or newer. GM says that the product can save drivers money with its in-vehicle technology, accident forgiveness and deductible waiver. Connected vehicle data provides information about driving behavior and mechanical operation of the vehicle, according to General Motors Insurances website. This information includes driving time of day and duration, miles driven, speed, change in speed and seat belt usage. General Motors Insurance is available in 17 states altogether. The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) said in a statement that General Motors-affiliated insurance entities have been issued certificate of authority to write motor vehicle insurance in Louisiana since 2006 and is not a new market entrant. In December 2024, GM National Insurance Company submitted a new private passenger auto insurance product for review and approval by the LDI. The LDI found the companys manual rates and rules in compliance with the LDIs File and Use review process in February 2025 and approved the companys policy form filing in March 2025, LDI said. The program became effective in July. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry celebrated General Motors Insurances entry into the state, connecting the programs launch with the lawmakers tort reform efforts in the recent legislative session. General Motors Insurance coming to Louisiana is a testament to the work we accomplished this legislative session to bring about real insurance reform, said Landry in a statement. Louisiana families deserve more options in this mandated market, and we are incredibly proud to welcome GM to our state. I am confident this is just the beginning of a more consumer friendly insurance market. Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple said in a separate statement that lawmakers passed several great legal reform bills but added that the the great step made this year is not the end of the race. I look forward to working with the Legislature to continue identifying the areas of our legal system that make us an outlier and addressing those distinctions to align our legal system with best state practices, thereby enacting the meaningful legal reforms that our citizens deserve, Temple said. If we want to see change in our market, it starts with meaningful change in our legal environment. This story has been updated with a statement from the Louisiana Department of Insurance. Topics Louisiana Central Baptist Church of Albany, Georgia, suffered roof damage during a hailstorm in 2014. Its insurance carrier, Church Mutual Insurance, determined that the roof had only minor damage that could be repaired. It offered $2,300 for the work. After the deductible, the payout amounted to just $1,303. The church objected, providing contractor estimates of about $1.4 million to replace the roofs on the sprawling, three-winged church building. The congregation sued the insurer and years later, after a second storm and extensive litigation, a jury awarded $1.7 million against Church Mutual. The insurer appealed and, this week, the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the jury verdict and found that the trial court had not erred in allowing the award. Finding no basis to revisit the evidentiary ruling and no error in the courts denial of post-trial relief, we affirm the judgment based on the jurys verdict, the appeal court judges wrote in the July 21 opinion. A key issue in the appeal was Church Mutuals argument that the house of worship had never mentioned that, after Hurricane Michael in 2018, it had obtained another roof replacement bid of $718,469 well below the first estimate. The church was at that time insured by AmTrust North America and the church filed a claim on the wind damage. Failing to disclose that to Church Mutual during the litigation amounted to material misrepresentation, Church Mutuals attorneys contended. The churchs lawyers explained that the original, Church Mutual insurance policy stipulated repair and replacement of comparable kind and quality. Since much of the church roof material was asbestos and was no longer manufactured, contractors had estimated the cost of a replacement using slate, an expensive material. But the later estimate, after Hurricane Michael, was not for comparable-type roofing material, the court explained. Also, Church Mutuals legal team made a crucial mistake by not fully objecting to the trial courts exclusion of evidence of the Baptists alleged misrepresentation, effectively barring that defense on appeal, the 11th Circuit judges noted. The trial judge had found that the insurer had not shown that the churchs omission of the second claim was a misrepresentation. In sum, the record shows an intent by the insurance company to abandon the misrepresentation defense, appellate Judge Frederico Moreno wrote in the opinon. Accordingly, the issue is not preserved for appeal, and we may not opine on the courts decision to exclude evidence of the alleged misrepresentation. The jury arrived at the $1.7 million figure after hearing testimony from a contractor who noted that plans for tariffs on steel and oil had significantly raised the cost of building materials and repairs. Church Mutual withdrew an objection to that assertion during the trial. After benefiting from oral argument, we find no error in the district courts rulings and affirm the jurys verdict, the appeals court noted. The full opinion can be seen here. Similar Court Ruling: Kentucky Supreme Court Overturns Escape Clause Meaning, Affirms Roof Collapse in 2024 State Auto P&C Church Case Topics Georgia DARIEN, Ga. (AP) Black landowners from a tiny island community returned to a Georgia courtroom, urging a judge to let them move forward with a lawsuit that accuses local officials of illegally weakening protections for one of the Souths last Gullah-Geechee communities founded by freed slaves. Residents and landowners of Hogg Hummock on Sapelo Island have yet to see a judge weigh the merits of their discrimination case nearly two years after they first sued McIntosh County. They say county commissioners targeted a mostly poor, Black population with 2023 zoning changes that benefit wealthy white land buyers and developers. So far, the case has been bogged down by technicalities. A judge last year dismissed the original lawsuit, citing legal errors unrelated to its alleged rights violations. On Friday, a lawyer for McIntosh County asked a judge to also throw out an amended version of the suit, saying it failed to state a legal conflict within the courts jurisdiction and missed critical deadlines set by state law. The zoning rules being challenged doubled the size of homes allowed in Hogg Hummock, one of a dwindling number of small communities started by emancipated island slaves known collectively as Gullah, or Geechee in Georgia scattered from North Carolina to Florida. Scholars say these peoples separation from the mainland caused them to retain much of their African heritage, from their unique dialect to skills and crafts such as cast-net fishing and weaving baskets. Hogg Hummocks few dozen remaining residents and their advocates say the changes will bring unaffordable tax increases, threatening one of Americas most historically and culturally unique Black communities. Were in limbo, said Richard Banks, who owns the Sapelo Island home of his late father, built on land passed down in his family for generations. You dont know what decisions you have to make in regard to your property. The lawsuit by the Southern Poverty Law Center asks a judge to declare the zoning changes violate the landowners constitutional rights to due process and equal protection by discriminating against them on the basis of race. It also accuses the county of violating Georgia laws governing zoning procedures and public meetings. McIntosh Countys lawyers deny commissioners violated anyones rights. But they argue the lawsuit should be dismissed without getting into those claims. They say fears of hypothetical tax increases dont present a valid legal conflict for a judge to decide. Theres no allegation that existing businesses must close, attorney Patrick Jaugstetter said in court Friday. Theres no evidence that any current use of a property must cease. Jaugstetter also said the refiled lawsuit came too late, well beyond Georgias 30-day deadline for challenging zoning decisions and its six-month deadline for alleging violations of the open meetings law. Malissa Williams, a lawyer for the Black landowners, said those deadlines were met by the original lawsuit filed in 2023. They should be allowed to challenge the (zoning) amendments because they will have a ripple effect on every aspect of their lives, Williams said. Senior Judge F. Gates Peed did not rule from the bench Friday. He asked both sides to submit proposed orders by the end of August. A second legal battle between Sapelo Island residents and county officials is pending before the Georgia Supreme Court. A decision is expected by mid-November on whether residents can attempt to repeal the 2023 zoning changes by forcing a special election. A scheduled referendum last fall was halted by a lower court judge, who ruled the vote was illegal. Photo:A sticker celebrating the Geechee heritage as passengers board a ferry to the mainland from Sapelo Island. (AP Photo/David Goldman, File) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Claims Georgia The death of an unarmed 52-year-old man who died after an Alabama police officer kneeled on his neck was ruled a homicide by a county coroner, according to an official autopsy reviewed by The Associated Press. The finding led lawyers representing Phillip Reeders family on Monday to compare his death to that of George Floyd in 2020. The report issued by the Jefferson County medical examiners office concludes Reeder, of Irondale, Alabama, died last August of heart failure associated with cocaine use and restraint during altercation. Officers in the Alabama suburb 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Birmingham were dispatched to a local highway just after 5 a.m. on August 6, 2024, after one of Reeders colleagues called 911 to report a medical emergency, according to Reeders wife, Sandra Lee Reeder. Phillip Reeder, who owned a construction company, was driving home from a job in Memphis, Tennessee, she said. At the time, police said Reeder was wandering in and out of traffic when they approached him, according to AL.com. Body camera video of Reeders death has not been released publicly, but Sandra Lee Reeder and her attorneys said they reviewed it last week. A 2023 state law that governs release of police recordings says the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency may choose to not disclose the recording if it would affect an active law enforcement investigation. An email seeking comment from the Irondale police chief was sent Monday morning. Sandra Lee Reeder said that the body camera footage shows her husband running from police when they arrived. Police then shocked Reeder with a Taser, placed him in handcuffs and laid him on his stomach, she said. One officer put his knee on Reeders neck for over three minutes, she said. Sandra Lee Reeder said her husband can be heard saying I cant breathe three times. The autopsy said Reed had multiple non-leathal wounds and bruising from the attempted arrest by the police. Sandra Lee Reeder said she could see he was bleeding from his face in the video. Reeder was unresponsive when the officer rolled him over onto his back, according to the coroners report. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital just after 6:30 a.m. Harry Daniels, an attorney for the Reeder family, compared the fatality to the death of George Floyd in 2020, which prompted months of protests and widespread scrutiny over police tactics. This world was captivated and shocked about what happened in 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 2024, the exact same thing happened, Daniels said at a news conference outside Irondale City Hall on Monday. Daniels said that the only difference between what happened to Reeder and Floyd is race: Reeder was white and Floyd was Black. Reeder may have committed misdemeanor disorderly conduct by wandering into traffic, but it is not warranted for a knee in the back that is deadly force, he said. Reeders two sons said that they also reviewed the body camera video of their fathers last moments this month after almost a year of asking the local police department and state agency for more information. What I have gone through these past 11 months should not happen to any 19-year-old, Zachariah Phillip Reeder said. Photo: This undated photo shows Sandra Lee Reeder and husband Phillip Reeder. (Mike Wukela via the AP) Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Law Enforcement Alabama As Europe revisits its economic strategy spurred by calls to make Europe competitive again it must move beyond stylised contrasts and ask what it takes to build and scale technological capacity today. That requires a sharper research agenda: one that explores how mid- and high-tech sectors reinforce each other, how industrial ecosystems function, and how Europes competition policy fits into a world shaped by the large-scale industrial strategies of China and the United States. For three decades, the EU externally anchored its trade and industrial policy. It implemented the Washington Consensus with vigour: pursuing open trade and imposing strict limits on state aid. A stringent at least on paper competition policy followed: EU firms became leaner through global competition, and domestic markets more competitive via imports. European producers thrived, especially in industrial exports cars, planes, machinery thanks to a well-functioning internal market for goods. The single market gave firms scale at home, enabled value chains stretching from Germany and Sweden to lower-wage member states, and allowed production to be unbundled: design and engineering in high-skill regions, components in Central and Eastern Europe. But in services, especially digital, Europe fell behind. As Draghi warns, the continent is stuck in a mid-tech trap. While big tech drives US R&D, most private R&D in Europe is concentrated in autos, pharma and machinery just as it was 20 years ago. Europe overdid openness: selling industrial gems like robot maker Kuka to China and letting promising IT firms get scooped up by US tech. But the deeper problem lies in fragmented services and capital markets. Debate over Europes response is muddled by false choices. Some argue Europe cannot compete with China in capital- and scale-intensive sectors and should retreat to tradable niches. Others insist the old playbook still works: liberalise labour and product markets, deepen capital markets and let R&D-intensive firms emerge on their own. But in a world where the US and China tilt markets through subsidies, protected demand and scale advantages, Europe cannot remain agnostic about sectoral structure. It needs industrial policy not just for start-ups, but for strategic sectors under pressure and commensurate competition policy. First, Europe must rethink trade policy and align it with industrial strategy. The EU is using its traditional trade deal smarts to clinch deals with Mercosur and is even considering joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). But new free trade agreements (FTAs) have limits. The US still drives half of global trade deficits and remains the critical source of end demand for surplus economies like Europe. As the US turns inward, Europe must boost internal demand for growth raising questions about how to target fiscal tools. This is no longer a Ricardian trade world. Comparative advantage assumes countries shift into areas where they are relatively best and stop producing what others do better. But China climbs the tech ladder while clinging to low-end manufacturing, shutting out emerging markets. Comparative advantage now stems less from natural endowments than from industrial policy and investment. China is willing to run long-term losses to dismantle others advantages and build its own. And it does not share demand with trading partners: its imports of manufactured goods relative to GDP have fallen since its 2001 WTO accession, aided by local content rules and subsidies. Chinese firms can produce over 50 million cars annually, with global demand at 85-90 million. Domestic demand is 25 million; exports are six million. The idle capacity will be pushed abroad. This goes beyond cars. China dominates global output in crude steel, solar wafers, battery chemicals, shipbuilding and active pharmaceutical ingredients. It is climbing into robotics, industrial machinery and aerospace. Scaling regardless of demand causes deflationary pressure and premature deindustrialisation elsewhere. This threatens sectors where Europe still leads and the ecosystems on which its high-tech future depends. Chip tool maker ASML may be a crown jewel, but it depends on suppliers like Zeiss (lenses) and Trumpf (lasers) with business beyond semiconductors. If those firms lose scale, shift production to China or see margins eroded, Europes chip tool ecosystem could unravel. Europe needs tougher trade defences. Exports to the US and China together account for just over 4% of EU GDP important, but less so than Europes internal market. Higher public investment from Germany and other low-debt countries can lift demand, and Europe exporting over 300 billion in savings annually can afford it. But to prevent this demand from leaking to Chinese firms, the EU must deploy safeguards. With Chinas US $1.1 trillion trade surplus and its exports increasingly redirected from the US to Europe, that risk is rising. Industrial policy with European preferences can help raise returns and reduce risk for EU firms. The challenge is to do this while preserving EU competition and keeping markets and industrial policy incentives open to allies. The second challenge is to better understand the interplay between mid-tech and high-tech sectors. Over the past two decades, IT and manufacturing have delivered the highest productivity growth in Europe. Yet the debate often falls into a false dichotomy: bet on high-tech start-ups or accept mid-tech decline. Europe lacks capacity in chip design, enterprise software and AI where R&D intensity is highest. But Europe retains global strengths in mid-tech pharma, cars, clean tech, aviation and machinery even against Chinese state-backed rivals. Aerospace exports exceed 100 billion a year. Clean tech exports are 4% of German GDP. The idea that only venture capital-backed firms drive innovation ignores how ecosystems work. Even Tesla relied heavily on US subsidies. R&D in machinery, chemicals and transport can generate broader productivity gains than R&D in IT or finance. Manufacturing innovation creates tangible tools other sectors depend on. These sectors seed the next generation. ASML emerged from Philips, which began as a lightbulb maker; Airbus came from national aerospace champions. Siemens helped build Germanys clean tech base. Understanding how the old births the new should be a focus of research. The third challenge is to redesign EU competition policy. In Chinas decentralised model, many firms are supported in emerging sectors, and fierce competition selects winners. In the USs centralised model, the state backs a few flagship projects, with private capital helping winners scale. Europe sits awkwardly between, with decentralised state aid lacking clear priorities or sufficient funds and no EU-level pooling of research. Europe risks spreading resources too thin to move the needle. To compete, Europe needs the best of both models: strategic focus and EU-level pooling, with space for national experimentation. EU industrial policy must also reflect global dynamics and internal market gaps. In sectors where global competition tends towards oligopoly and the single market functions well, fostering European champions can strengthen the bloc. In such cases, industrial policy can support scale without undermining competition. This does not apply to digital and other services, where the single market remains fragmented. There, national champions risk becoming sharks in small ponds. In conclusion, Europe suffers from the persistent illusion that tweaking framework conditions will fix productivity and innovation, and sectoral composition will sort itself out. But if over-reliance on low-R&D sectors is part of the problem, how can it be solved without sectoral policy when the US and China actively distort global markets? Europe still has time but only if it abandons the idea that markets alone will deliver. Chinas industrial policy has been remarkably successful. Europe can protect its mid-tech R&D base, modernise industry, and build high-tech capacity but only if it acts decisively. That requires a sharper research agenda to map sectoral ecosystems, track spillovers and scale, and guide industrial and competition policy. The European Commission has proposed nature credits, a system whereby private investors can pay landowners who make biodiversity and ecological restoration efforts. However, it is likely to be many years away. In 2021, the commission proposed a not dissimilar carbon credits system, but its planned adoption for carbon farming is not expected until 2026. Nature credits would enable investment into nature-positive actions by a company, a financial institution, a public entity or a citizen, who wants cleaner ecosystems, risk reduction, improved reputation and higher social acceptability. For example, a landowner restoring wetlands or extending forest areas could be paid for nature credits, valued and certified by an independent organisation. The commission says nature and carbon credits are complementary but distinct. Nature credits would help to protect and restore biodiversity and ecosystems, whereas carbon credits focus primarily on carbon sequestration and reducing emissions. And carbon credits are based on the well-established metric of tonnes of CO-equivalent emissions or sequestration, whereas nature credits will need multiple new metrics and indicators to reflect site-specific biodiversity outcomes. Nevertheless, the commission says there are clear synergies, particularly for carbon farming activities with biodiversity co-benefits. The commission envisages nature credits offering new income opportunities for farmers, foresters, fishers, landowners and local communities that restore ecosystems. And a wide range of potential buyers and investors is envisaged, from private companies and financial institutions to small investors and public entities. The commission invited businesses, scientists, governments, and civil society to help shape nature credits with their feedback between now and September 30. Meanwhile, the commission will establish a new nature credits expert group. Also, the EU is piloting nature credit initiatives in France, Estonia, and Peru. Nature credits could be generated by those who undertake restoration or maintenance actions, for example, a group of farmers or land managers working together to restore or enhance a natural area. An independent certifier would review their project plan, implementation methods, and intended impacts. If the project complies, it receives a certificate recognising its high quality. This certificate enables verified nature credit tradable units to be sold on to companies, public authorities, or citizens. Revenue from the nature credits goes back to the land managers, rewarding them and enabling reinvestment. For companies, nature credits can make their production processes more nature-friendly, increase creditworthiness, and facilitate access to financing. "They can help de-risk their supply chains, reduce insurance premiums, and meet corporate biodiversity goals," according to the commission, which says nature credits are beneficial for financial institutions, for example, because of the core biodiversity financial risks such as reduced yields due to decline in pollination, erosion and loss of soil fertility, increase in pest attacks, floods and droughts, etc. Nature credit markets are still in their early stages globally. However, global demand for biodiversity credits is predicted by the commission to reach up to 155bn. "If the EU captures some of this demand, it could contribute to closing the estimated 37bn annual biodiversity funding gap in Europe." The commission says EU countries are already testing or implementing nature credit approaches, with France, Finland, and Ireland having initiated government-led efforts, while in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, and Sweden, pilots are led by civil society, land managers, or financial actors. Green assist pilots include, for example, experimentation on wetland in France. Commission president von der Leyen said: "We have to put nature on the balance sheet. That's exactly what nature credits do. When well-designed, they will provide an efficient, market-driven instrument that encourages the private sector to invest and innovate. "With investment and innovation, we generate revenue for those who work to protect nature, including our farmers, our landowners, our foresters." The Sounds From a Safe Harbour (SFSH) festival has announced another raft of artists heading to Cork in September. Having previously revealed headliners such as Beth Orton and Jon Hopkins, organisers of the biennial event have added a diverse mix of other concerts, including Co Clare rapper God Knows, and former Gloaming duo Caoimhin O Raghallaigh and Thomas Bartlett. Unique Limerick artist Bobby Fingers also makes his first appearance in Cork, after transforming himself from Mr Chrome of the Rubberbandits via a series of weird and wonderful videos on YouTube. Nobody is quite sure what the Fingers experience will involve, but we're told: "There will be a band. There may be some art. There will definitely be jokes. Maybe a book reading. No raffle." Irelands media regulator has given Elon Musk-owned X until Friday to explain why it hasnt implemented age controls to watch pornography on the social media platform. Coimisiun na Mean has said it will take further action if it finds evidence that X is not complying with its obligations to keep children safe online. We expect platforms to comply with their legal obligations, the regulator said. Non-compliance is a serious matter which can lead to sanctions, including significant financial penalties. Companies that breach these obligations could face fines of up to 20m or 10% of its annual turnover, whichever is greater. On Monday, Part B of Coimisiun na Means Online Safety Code came into force. This part of the code involves video-sharing platforms under the Irish regulators remit to enforce effective ways of ensuring someone is over age to view adult content on their platform. As well as X, other sites subject to these rules include Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Coimisiun na Mean has already written to X expressing concerns on how it is adhering to Part A of the code. On Wednesday, it again said it had concerns about Xs compliance, particularly given platforms had a nine-month lead-in time. Under Part B of the Code, video-sharing platforms that allow pornography must use effective age assurance to ensure that children are not normally able to access it," it said. Based on an initial review of the X platform, we cannot see evidence of measures taken to comply with this age assurance requirement. We have further concerns about Xs compliance with other parts of the Code, including but not limited to, the availability of parental controls. The regulator added that it would continue to review all the platforms under its remit and take enforcement action if necessary. A "narco boat" swayed on a winch as the Atlantic swell rolled in on Tragumna pier, Cork, as men struggled to load it into an articulated lorry after many of them had already endured almost 48 hours on rough, dangerous seas. The speedboat, with three powerful engines and modified to evade detection, had allegedly failed to catch up with the alleged mothership, a legitimate Panamanian flagged cargo vessel called the Cool Explorer off Britain's south-west coast to collect some 59m worth of cocaine. It returned to Tragumna in the early morning of March 14, 2024, after just under 48 hours at sea during a weather warning, having covered 985km. Frustrated shouts could be heard in shaky video footage captured by one of the accused on a phone and shown to the Special Criminal Court on Tuesday. "This is some mission here mate", an Irish voice could be heard saying in one video as they struggled to load the rigid inflatable boat (RIB) onto the articulated truck trailer. I dont give a fuck, Im not taking the blame for any of this, the Irish voice said in one video. A suspected major drug smuggling operation, involving some 850kg cocaine worth an estimated 59m which gardai believe ultimately washed up on beaches in Denmark, had failed that night. Charting waypoints Devices subsequently seized by gardai from 10 men arrested in West Cork, including phones with the highly encrypted Graphene operating system, contained images that showed waypoints in Denmark near where the cocaine washed ashore. Waypoints charted on the Active Captain app showed locations plotted out in the Irish Sea and the English Channel just south of Land's End. A screenshot found on a seized phone seems to show the location of the Cool Explorer, taken from a marine traffic app which helps monitor the position of cargo vessels. It was to pass by Lands End in the south of Britain around March 12, 2024. On March 14 and 15, the Cool Explorer passed an area of Denmark called Sjllands Odde. Some 850kg of cocaine was discovered subsequently washed up on beaches in the area. GPS units attached to the bags matched the co-ordinates used by the Cool Explorer, the court heard. Gardai believe that the rigid inflatable boat left Tragumna on March 12, 2024, in a failed bid to meet the Cool Explorer a legitimate cargo vessel to pick up some 850kg of cocaine while at sea. Seven of the 10 men arrested in connection with the alleged operation have now pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import drugs. They are Dutch national Kiumaars Ghabiri, aged 52; Serbian national Aleksander Milic, aged 28; and Spanish nationals Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz, aged 45; Juan Antonio Gallardo Barroso, aged 56; Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega, aged 36; Angel Serran Padilla, aged 40; and Anuar Rahui Chairi, aged 42. 'Co-operative of groups' The accused operated in a cell structure, Inspector Joseph Young told the Special Criminal Court. A Dutch Iranian cell, an Irish cell, and a Spanish cell were involved in the operation, the court heard. The Dutch Iranian cell served a logistical support role in the conspiracy enterprise, Insp Young said. And gardai believe that a co-operative of groups had proprietary rights over the illicit cargo, believed to be some 58m of cocaine that subsequently washed up on the Danish coast. Milic, from Belgrade, was a notary or representative for the Irish cell on the rigid inflatable boat, Insp Young said. Part of his role was to provide fuel to the boat, Insp Young said. He was not in a managerial role, I think the purpose of a notary role for the group is to place a representative on the boat to oversee and see that things went to plan Following his arrest on the morning of March 14, he had medical help for problems with his teeth he suffered on rough seas on the open-topped, low profile speed boat. He had no seat in the vessel, unlike the other Spanish crew, and had no helmet or gumshield to protect him. He also had debts in Serbia, defence barrister Seamus Clarke said. The Spanish cell had first travelled to Holland in February 2024. Barroso allegedly brought the rigid inflatable boat there and they all were in the area while the boat was modified in a warehouse. The speedboats modification would classify it as a narco boat" Inspector Young said. It was probably modified to conduct drug trafficking at sea, with blackened equipment and a low profile in the water, designed not to be detected, he said. Selfies taken in Holland showed some of the men lounging on couches, smiling, and giving peace signs to the camera. Another photo showed all of them enjoying dinner and wine together around a table in a chalet in Holland. Mr Sanz and Mr Chairi appeared in many photos together, retrieved from multiple devices, and they travelled together from Lisbon to Dublin. One selfie showed them smiling as they set off, sitting next to each other in an airplane at the beginning of their ill-fated operation. 'Modest means' Mr Barroso was involved in the procurement of the rigid inflatable boat and transported it to Holland, the State alleges. He knew Mr Ortega and Mr Padilla, the court heard. Mr Barrosos wife died while he was in prison, leaving their 12-year-old daughter without her parents and being taken into the care of family, the court heard. Mr Ortega, a mechanic, had previously worked for a company which was contracted to by police in Gibraltar to fix cars and boats. However, he had been unemployed for the 11 months prior to March, 2024, defence barrister Brendan Grehan said. Mr Ortega, his long-term partner, and their daughter were a family of modest means, with Mr Ortegas social welfare payments of 1,500 a month due to run out. His partner earned 1,600-1,700 a month cleaning hotels. Mr Padilla, also a father, had struggled with cocaine addiction and had lapsed into abuse again before taking the Tragumna job, defence barrister Michael Bowman said. He was hired for his experience at sea and had no proprietary interest in the cargo, Mr Bowman said. He had previously been in the army, but left due to psychological issues. He had also worked in construction and with his father who was a butcher. Mr Ghabiri, allegedly part of the Dutch-Iranian cell, provided logistical support in the enterprise, Insp Young said Born in Tehran, his home was hit by a bomb from Saddam Husseins Iraqi regime. It killed his parents and his six siblings when he was nine-years-old, defence counsel Keith Spencer said. He was injured in the blast but survived, and was taken in by an uncle and other family members. He later suffered persecution and escaped Iran to Rotterdam in Holland, where he subsisted in a refugee centre. He worked menial jobs, picking tomatoes and flowers and cleaning toilets in the underground. He had very little education and his literacy was quite poor, Mr Spencer said. However, he was a skilled cook with a good work ethic and had subsequently worked in Spain as a chef. His sister had contracted cancer and needed support which was a factor in pushing him to take this job, Mr Spencer said. His guilty plea came very early and his involvement was not of someone at the upper echelons of this type of conspiracy, and he was not standing to profit a huge deal from it, Mr Spencer said. Childhood trauma Mr Sanz also suffered trauma in his childhood, defence barrister Elizabeth OConnell said. Although he grew up in a middle class family, his father was an architect and his mother also had a good professional position, his parents split up very acrimoniously when he was 10 years old. He and his father moved to a small village outside Cadiz, and the relationship with his other parent ruptured completely. He also lost all contact with his sister for 17 years. This was a huge trauma to Mr Sanz, and he was effectively let run wild by his father as his sole guardian. Although he had a business bringing people out on boat trips to see dolphins, his early trauma and unstable childhood had disrupted his life tragically. His seafaring knowledge led to his being asked by a Portuguese operative to ensure that the boat was operational and got to the water when needed, the court heard. He said he was to be paid 15,000 for the foiled Tragumna operation, but said he never received payment. Mr Sanz was not a person of means, and he rented an apartment with his wife who works in an airport. The Spanish were brought in as a "job lot", the defence barrister for Mr Chairi, Emmett Boyle, said. His client was employed as a subcontractor to fulfil a specific service and was not at management level, Mr Boyle said. Mr Chairi survived modestly in Malaga, and certainly does not live a lavish lifestyle, Mr Boyle said. Mitigation in the mens sentence hearings will continue in the Special Criminal Court on Wednesday. Taoiseach Micheal Martin has emphatically ruled himself out of running in the presidential election. The Fianna Fail leader had been suggested as a contender in the race for the Aras, but he has now said his hat will not be in the ring. When asked if he would be in the running to replace Michael D Higgins, Mr Martin said he was "definitely not" going to run. A lot of names have been floated in association with Fianna Fail," Mr Martin told RTE's Morning Ireland. "I'm not responsible for the flotation of any of those names, just to make that very clear. "I was elected. I went to the people to say I wanted to serve Cork South Central and I wanted to lead Fianna Fail into Government. I made that obligation to the public, and that's the context. "No disrespect to the presidency or anything, but I gave commitments to the people that I would serve in Dail Eireann for the next five years and that is what I'm going to do." He said Fianna Fail will decide on what it will do in the presidential election in the coming weeks and he is taking soundings from the parliamentary party on the matter. Fianna Fail last ran a candidate in 1997 with Mary McAleese. Hanafin seeks backing for presidential run It comes as former minister Mary Hanafin has written to members of the Fianna Fail parliamentary party seeking their backing for a presidential run. Ms Hanafin, a former Fianna Fail TD for Dun Laoghaire and former education minister, has expressed interest in recent weeks in contesting the election. Last week, she told the McGill Summer School it would be an insult if Fianna Fail did not run a candidate in the election, which is widely expected to take place in October. In a message sent to members of the Fianna Fail parliamentary party, seen by the Irish Examiner, Ms Hanafin asked for their support in seeking a nomination. I believe strongly that Fianna Fail should contest this election to ensure our values are reflected in the debates on the future of our country, she said. After 30 years as an elected Fianna Fail representative, including 11 as a Government Minister, I would like to express my interest in contesting this election. We do not know yet what the selection process will be but I look forward to setting out my vision at that stage. In the meantime, I will continue to attend events around the country, make good use of time and hopefully meet you on my travels. I look forward to speaking with you personally and I wish you a well deserved rest and enjoyable holiday. However, the Irish Examiner understands there is little support in the party for Ms Hanafin, with one party member saying she did not have a hope of getting on the ticket. Another TD said she would not have many fans within the party. It is unclear if the Taoiseach is supportive of the idea, with reports suggesting earlier this week that Ulster University president Deirdre Heenan is his preferred candidate. Mr Martin on Wednesday denied that he had been in contact with Ms Heenan. Other names in the mix for the Fianna Fail nomination include former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan and footballers Packie Bonner and Niall Quinn. The Irish Examiner reported on Monday that Eamon O Cuiv was another name being touted as a possible Fianna Fail presidential candidate. The former Galway West TD said he is waiting for the party to confirm it is running a candidate. However, the partys candidate is not expected to be confirmed until September. So far, Independent TD Catherine Connolly and former European Commissioner Mairead McGuinness have announced that they will run. Ms Connolly has the backing of the Social Democrats and People Before Profit, while Ms McGuinness will be Fine Gael's candidate for the presidential election. The election must take place on or up to 60 days before November 11, 2025. Michael Buerk's iconic BBC report from Ethiopia in 1984 was not the first to raise the famine alarm bell. Brothers Kevin and Mike Doheny from Ballinalacken, Co Laois, who worked with Concern in Ethiopia had been pleading with broadcasters to film the unfolding catastrophe. While the main networks including the BBC deemed it unsafe to send a crew, the Dohenys persuaded an independent cameraman, Paul Harrison, to travel to Ethiopia in July 1984. Later, back in London, when Harrison was transferring the film to tape at Visnews, the horrific famine footage was seen by a journalist from ITN. It was shown that night on their bulletins with a caption asking for donations to be sent to Concern in Dublin and was later picked up by French, Irish, Canadian and Australian media. It wasnt until October that year that Michael Buerk went to Ethiopia, and while he was not the first reporter to cover the crisis, his broadcast, with harrowing images shot by Kenyan cameraman Mohammed Amin, produced one of the most powerful television reports of the late 20th century. Bob Geldof saw the reports and decided that something, anything, had to be done. Band Aid was born, culminating in eight Live Aid concerts that raised 150 million, (equivalent of 490 million today) for famine relief and development in Ethiopia and elsewhere in Africa. The full impact of Live Aid on famine relief has always generated debate but, without question, it not only raised desperately needed funds (Concern alone received 11 million for food supplies for both Ethiopia and Sudan that saved thousands of lives), it also raised an extraordinary level of public awareness, sparking a global movement that led to increased aid spending and policy changes. As Geldof put it: We took an issue that was nowhere on the political agenda and. were able to address the intellectual absurdity and the moral repulsion of people dying of want in a world of surpluses. Bono, having performed with U2 at Live Aid in London, travelled with his wife, Ali Hewson, to Ethiopia at the end of 1985 where they visited the Concern team in Wollo, the epicentre of the famine. Geldof and Bono, true Irish humanitarian activists, clearly attuned to Irelands own deeply troubled history of famine, embarked on a lifetime journey that took them from charity fundraising to tackling the deeper structural causes of poverty. 40 years on from the momentous Live Aid concerts, while the narrative and conversations around humanitarian work have changed to be more inclusive and representative, the commitments to end global poverty and hunger have weakened. We have more data, technology and better resources but in a world that is more dangerous, more brutalized, with hunger and starvation on the rise, empathy and action is in short supply. Gaza, Haiti, Yemen, South Sudan and many more contexts are already in what is called "catastrophic food insecurity", one step away from starvation. Sudan, now more than two years into a horrific war has become the worlds largest hunger crisis. Famine has been declared in north Darfur and is threatened in 13 other parts of the country. Twenty years ago, when I worked in Darfur, I saw how the horror of conflict and suffering shocked the world and yet when I returned last year, a new generation of Sudanese were reliving the same hell; except, this time, the world is failing to pay adequate attention or provide sufficient resources. Across the globe, humanitarian needs are rising as resources are diminishing. Apart from a handful of donors, including Irish Aid, which have stayed the course, funding levels for humanitarian and development work, already in decline, hit a new crisis level this year. The magnitude and suddenness of funding cuts from major donors means that, at best, 114 million people, 38% of the total number of people in need of humanitarian assistance globally (299.7 million) will be assisted this year, and then only if the $29 billion required to assist them is immediately forthcoming. And this is the problem - as of June 30, just $5.96 billion has been received. In contrast, global military expenditure reached a record high of $2.718 trillion last year, and this figure is set to be surpassed this year. Seventy years on from his Chance for Peace" speech, US President Dwight D. Eisenhowers words ring ever more true: "Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket signifies, in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. Across the world, humanitarian actors and civil society are working relentlessly to respond to the escalating needs of conflict-affected populations. However, the lifeline that is humanitarian assistance can only be stretched and cut back so far. It is already at breaking point. If this trend of underfunding for humanitarian crises continues, millions of people in dire, life-threatening circumstances cannot and will not be reached with food, water, shelter, and protection. Many of them will die. It is that simple, that brutal, and totally preventable. Political self-interest We are failing, not just on resource mobilisation, but also at a political level. Human suffering is repeatedly sidelined by political self-interest. World leaders failed to agree an adequate climate finance deal at COP29 to help those countries that suffer the greatest impact of climate change. The UN Security Council has consistently failed in its mandate to maintain peace and security, refusing to call for immediate ceasefires, the protection of civilians, and the safe delivery of humanitarian aid in places such as Gaza and Sudan. The horrific images from Michael Buerks report which shocked the word into action 40 years ago continue to be played out on our TVs and social media which pound us with even more disturbing images spurring public outrage and demands for political action. Yet with all our digital technology, reporting is highly selective. Little attention is given to the millions of people who struggle in the crises such as those in Sudan, and so many other parts of the world where there are still children dying in their mothers arms, there are still people desperate for grains of wheat in the sand. They remain out of sight, out of mind, and marginalised from public and political attention. Live Aid broke the deafening silence around famine in Ethiopia. The enduring power of its message of empathy and action should inspire renewed calls for global solidarity in the face of ongoing challenges. We all have a role to play and as the UN turns 80 this year, we must urge member states to put empathy and action at the heart of every decision, and live up to its claim to be the one place on Earth where all the worlds nations can gather together, discuss common problems, and find shared solutions that benefit ALL of humanity. FKA Twigs and Shia LaBeouf have agreed to settle her lawsuit alleging LaBeouf was physically and emotionally abusive to her during their relationship. A lawyer for FKA Twigs, whose legal name is Tahliah Barnett, filed a request in Los Angeles Superior Court to dismiss her case against the 39-year-old American actor with prejudice, meaning it cant be filed again. A joint statement said: Committed to forging a constructive path forward, we have agreed to settle our case out of court. While the details of the settlement will remain private, we wish each other personal happiness, professional success and peace in the future. First filed in 2020, the case had several trial dates scheduled in the years since, but those were always delayed well in advance. The two met and became a couple in 2018 after 37-year-old English singer and actor Barnett was cast in a supporting role in Honey Boy, an autobiographical film about LaBeoufs upbringing as a child actor. After an early charm offensive from LaBeouf, the relationship became a living nightmare, her lawsuit said. She said LaBeouf put her in a constant state of fear and humiliation, once slammed her into a car, tried to strangle her and knowingly gave her a sexually transmitted disease. She said he also isolated her from family and friends, demanded absolute fealty and was angrily jealous of everyone from waiters shed been polite with to her ex-fiance Robert Pattinson. She said that her experience was part of a pattern for LaBeouf. Shia LaBeouf hurts women, the suit said. He uses them. He abuses them, both physically and mentally. He is dangerous. LaBeouf said in a statement just after the lawsuit was filed that he had been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years. I have a history of hurting the people closest to me. Im ashamed of that history and am sorry to those I hurt. But he denied the accusations in the lawsuit in a 2021 filing, saying any injuries done or damages incurred by Barnett were not his doing. LaBeouf is best known for his roles in 2007s Transformers and in 2008s Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull. He also starred in the 2019 film The Peanut Butter Falcon and in last years Megalopolis. Known for her genre-bending musical styles, FKA Twigs worked as a backup dancer for other artists before releasing her studio debut, LP1, in 2014. She followed it with 2019s Magdalene and Eusexua from earlier this year. As an actor, she appeared in 2024s The Crow. Congress will subpoena Ghislaine Maxwell, the imprisoned sex trafficker who was a close associate of the notorious pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, to testify amid a political firestorm over the Trump administrations decision not to release its remaining Epstein files. Tennessee Republican Tim Burchett introduced a motion to compel Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence in a Florida prison for crimes related to the Epstein case, to testify before the House oversight committee. The move appears to skirt an announcement early on Tuesday that officials from the Department of Justice are also planning to meet with Maxwell. We got to send a message to these dirt bags, Burchett said in a statement posted on X, referring to the list of clients and other Epstein enablers who are assumed to be included in the remaining Epstein files, the details of which are not publicly known. Weve just got to get to the bottom of this thing, folks. Its four years and we dont need to tolerate this stuff any more. Soon after Burchetts announcement, Mike Johnson, the Republican House speaker, said he was shutting down operations in the chamber early, sending lawmakers home before a five-week summer recess. They were scheduled to leave Washington for their districts on 24 July and be out through the month of August, but will now leave a day earlier. The decision comes as Democrats and a handful of Republicans continue to press for files related to Epstein, sending regular legislative schedules into chaos. Were not going to play political games with this, Johnson said at a news conference. Separately, a New York judge has ordered that the Trump administration must send more documents to support its call to release secret grand jury testimony from the 2021 Maxwell prosecution. T he Epstein issue has plagued the Trump administration. Picture: AP Photo/Alex Brandon Judge Paul Engelmayer said New York federal court would like to expeditiously resolve the Trump administrations request, but that it could not do so due to a number of missing submissions, including why disclosure is being sought in the particular case and what specific information is being sought for disclosure, he wrote. Engelmayer said the government must file a memorandum of law no later than 29 July and ordered Maxwell and the victims to file their positions on the proposed disclosure by 5 August. The Epstein issue has plagued the Trump administration as the presidents own supporters buck him and clamor for more information, and as details continue to emerge about Trumps personal connections with Epstein, who was a friend of his for many years until they fell out. Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump had sent Epstein a lewd drawing along with a suggestive dialogue between the two men. The Trump administration responded by suing the newspaper and its owner, Rupert Murdoch. Epstein issues splits Capitol Hill The issue has also riven Capitol Hill. On Tuesday, the Republican-led House of Representatives, led by Trump ally Johnson who recently undermined the president by calling for the release of all files, only to back down several days later voted to start its summer holiday early in order to avoid Epstein-related votes planned for Thursday. Burchett said he had introduced the motion directing James Comer, chair of the committee, to authorize and issue a subpoena for Maxwell. Comer was down with it, Burchett said. I believe hes going to issue the subpoena. Hes a stand-up guy. He also acknowledged that he would receive blowback, and folks up here are going to be mad at me, but ultimately and with all sincerity, Im gonna answer my creator on this issue. Burchett told Axios that he did not consult Trump before calling on the committee to subpoena Maxwell. He has previously written to Comer urging him to bring Maxwell in to testify. Shes the last one standing, he told the publication. Theres nobody else alive that can tell us anything. He also said he believes Maxwell could tell us the operation, how it went down, who were the supporters of it Ultimately Id like to see justice. Justice department sending US deputy attorney general to meet Maxwell The announcement came hours after the justice department said it was planning to send Todd Blanche, the US deputy attorney general, to Florida to meet with Maxwell. Lawyers for Maxwell said on Tuesday evening in a court filing that they had spoken to Blanche, Reuters reported. Last week, Trump directed the attorney general, Pam Bondi, to ask a court to release all relevant grand jury testimony in Epsteins case. Maxwell attorney David Oscar Markus confirmed on X that we are in discussions with the government and that Ghislaine will always testify truthfully. On Tuesday morning, Blanche also released a statement, posted by Bondi, saying that he plans to meet with Maxwell in the coming days. Blanches statement also defended the departments early July release, saying it was as accurate today as it was when it was written. - The Guardian A cruise liner carrying Israeli tourists has been forced to reroute to Cyprus after being turned away from the Greek island of Syros after a quayside protest over the Gaza war. Around 1,600 Israeli passengers on board the Crown Iris were prevented from disembarking amid safety concerns when more than 300 demonstrators on the Cycladic isle made clear they were unwelcome over Israels conduct of the war and treatment of Palestinians in Gaza. The head of the World Health Organization said on Wednesday that a large proportion of Gazas population was staving, while aid organisations urged Israel to ease its aid blockade as more Palestinians died of hunger. A large proportion of the population of Gaza is starving. I dont know what you would call it other than mass-starvation - and its man-made, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. At least 10 people had died from starvation in the last 24 hours, bringing the toll from hunger to 111, including 80 children, Gazas health authority said on Wednesday. More than 100 aid agencies had earlier issued a warning that mass starvation was spreading across Gaza and urged Israel to let humanitarian aid into the besieged strip to alleviate the growing human-made hunger crisis. A letter signed by 109 agencies including Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam International and Amnesty International says the Israeli government is blocking humanitarian organisations from effectively distributing life-saving aid. Just outside Gaza, in warehouses and even within Gaza itself tons of food, clean water, medical supplies, shelter items and fuel sit untouched with humanitarian organisations blocked from accessing or delivering them, the agencies wrote. The Government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death. The statement quoted an aid worker in Gaza who said: Children tell their parents they want to go to heaven, because at least heaven has food. The letter comes as increasing numbers of people in Gaza have begun dying from lack of food, the result of a starvation crisis that aid groups warned for months was imminent. Reports of people fainting from hunger on the long-walk towards the few aid distribution points and pictures of corpses with ribs jutting out have become commonplace. Palestinians carry sacks of flour unloaded from a humanitarian aid convoy that reached Gaza City from the northern Gaza Strip, on Tuesday, July 22. Picture: AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi Daily aid distribution averages the equivalent of about 28 trucks of humanitarian goods. Before the war, about 500 trucks of aid were let into Gaza to feed its more than 2 million residents. As starvation spreads, Israeli killings of civilians has increased. One person was killed by Israel every 12 minutes in July, making it one of the deadliest months of the Gaza war, an analysis of UN data revealed. On Wednesday, Israeli strikes killed at least 21 people, more than half of which were women and children, Palestinian health authorities said. The Israeli military said it was deepening activity in Gaza City and north Gaza. Among the dead were two Palestinian journalists, Tamer al-Zaanin, and Walaa al-Jabari, who was pregnant, bringing the number of media workers killed in the territory to 229 since the start of the war. Israel has extended the detention of Dr Marwan al-Hams, the acting director of Gazas field hospitals, until the end of the month, Associated Press reported. Hams was arrested earlier this week and is suffering from a gunshot wound to his leg that he had reportedly sustained during his detention. Aid in Israel is now distributed by the US and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), whose sites have been described by UN officials as death traps. Previous Guardian reporting chronicled the dangers faced by Palestinians seeking aid from GHF sites. Palestinians carrying pans gather to receive hot meals, distributed by a charity organisation in Gaza City. Picture: Khames Alrefi/Anadolu via Getty Images The GHF claims it prevents the Palestinian group Hamas from stealing aid via its aid distribution points, a point echoed by Israel. Humanitarians have widely condemned the organisation for what they say is a violation of aid principles and potential complicity in the war crime of weaponising starvation. UN officials report that the Israeli military has killed more than 1,000 Palestinians trying to reach food distribution sites since the end of May. Israel has killed at least 72 Palestinians in the past 24 hours according to the Gaza health ministry. Israel also attacked World Health Organization facilities in Deir al-Bahah, and cancelled the visa of the most senior UN aid official in Gaza. Read More Government must stand firm on Israel's illegal occupation and genocide in Gaza Strip As Israeli military activity in Gaza intensified, momentum for a ceasefire seemed to be growing. The US envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff was heading to Rome on Wednesday, where he is expected to meet the top Israeli adviser, Ron Dermer, and Palestinian negotiators. If progress is made on the deal, Witkoff will head to Doha, where indirect negotiations have been taking place between the two parties. Over the past week, gaps have been slowly bridged between Hamas and Israel on the ceasefire deal, though serious obstacles still remain. An Israeli source said it was still awaiting a Hamas response, which was expected in the coming day. On 21 July, 28 countries including the UK and other Israeli allies, issued a statement calling for an end to the war in Gaza and labelling the Israeli governments denial of essential humanitarian assistance as unacceptable. The statement also spoke against Israeli settler violence in the West Bank, as well as Israeli plans to move Palestinians into a humanitarian city, which has been described by a former Israeli prime minister as a concentration camp and tantamount to ethnic cleansing. The statement, while strongly worded, did not threaten sanctions or mention any concrete policy steps that would be taken against the Israeli government if it did not change course. Wednesdays letter from the humanitarian organisations calls for direct action. Piecemeal arrangements and symbolic gestures, like airdrops or flawed aid deals, serve as a smokescreen for inaction. They cannot replace states legal and moral obligations to protect Palestinian civilians and ensure meaningful access at scale, it says. Israels military said it views the transfer of humanitarian aid into Gaza as a matter of utmost importance, and works to facilitate its entry in coordination with the international community. It has denied accusations it is preventing aid from reaching Gaza and has accused Hamas of stealing food, an allegation Hamas denies. More than 59,000 people have been killed in Gaza by Israels military campaign there, which started after the Hamas-led attack on 7 October, 2023 in which about 1,200 people were killed. The Guardian Syrias interim government has requested Turkeys support to strengthen its defence capabilities, Turkish officials said. It follows sectarian violence over the past two weeks that have increased tensions in Syria and drawn intervention by Israel. The defence ministry officials said that Syria has also sought assistance to combat terrorist organisations, including the so-called Islamic State group. Turkey which has long expressed readiness to assist Syria was working towards providing training, advisory services and technical support to help strengthen Syrias defence capacity, the officials added. A convoy of ambulances and buses arrives at a checkpoint in a village in southern Syria on its way to Sweida (Omar Sanadiki/AP) Tensions escalated in southern Syria last week, with violent clashes erupting between Bedouin Arab tribes and Druze militias in the province of Sweida. The conflict triggered Israeli air strikes on convoys of government forces in Sweida and on the Ministry of Defence headquarters in central Damascus, which Israel justified as efforts to protect Druze communities. Turkey, which strongly supports Syrias interim government led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, has been seeking a defence agreement with Syria that could reportedly include establishing Turkish military bases on Syrian territory. Ankara also backs an agreement reached between the interim Syrian administration and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate into Syrias national army. Implementation of the deal has stalled, with a major sticking point being whether the SDF would remain as a cohesive unit in the new army or be dissolved completely. Bedouin fighters gather in a village in southern Syria (Omar Sanadiki/AP) On Tuesday, Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan warned Kurdish and other groups in Syria against exploiting the tensions to pursue autonomy, stating that any attempt to divide Syria would be viewed as a direct threat to Turkeys national security and could prompt intervention. Turkey considers the SDF a terrorist organisation because of its association with the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which has waged a long-running insurgency in Turkey. The defence ministry officials said Turkey expects the SDF to follow through on its commitments under the agreement, adding that Turkey would be following the situation. The situation in Syria has increased tensions between Turkey and Israel. In April, Israel struck five cities in Syria, including more than a dozen strikes near a strategic air base in the city of Hama, where Turkey reportedly has interests in having a military presence. Israel accused Turkey of trying to build a protectorate in Syria. Lady Gaga, Coldplay and Alice Cooper are among the music artists who have honoured the Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne, by paying tribute to him during live concert performances. The death of the music star, who fronted heavy metal band Black Sabbath, was announced in a statement to the PA news agency saying he was with his family and surrounded by love. His Black Sabbath band mates Terence Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi and Bill Ward led tributes to Osbourne alongside fans from his home city of Birmingham and celebrity friends including Kiss star Gene Simmons and Queen guitarist Brian May. His death at the age of 76 comes just weeks after Osbourne took to the stage for a farewell concert at Villa Park in Birmingham a stones throw from where the band was formed in 1968. The Back to the Beginning concert featured performances from Anthrax, Metallica and Guns N Roses, with Osbournes Black Sabbath bandmates the last to appear on stage. Lady Gaga Lady Gaga paid tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, wearing a t-shirt and playing his debut solo single Crazy Train (Ian West/PA) US pop star Lady Gaga took to the stage in an Ozzy Osbourne t-shirt as she ended her first Mayhem Ball show in San Francisco on Tuesday. Well miss you Ozzy, she said, as Osbournes song Crazy Train played in the background. Crazy Train was released in 1980 as Osbournes debut solo single, which featured on his debut solo album, Blizzard Of Ozz. The Bad Romance singer, 39, is currently touring her latest studio album, Mayhem, across the US and Canada. Coldplay Chris Martin performed a rendition of Black Sabbaths Changes during a show at Nashville in tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne (Aaron Chown/PA) During a concert in Nashville, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin led a rendition of Changes by Black Sabbath in tribute to the heavy metal star. Okay Ozzy we love you, wherever youre going, thank you for everything, he said after playing the tune on a piano. The song was originally released in 1972 as part of the Vol4 Black Sabbath album, and was re-released in 2003 as a duet with Osbournes daughter, Kelly, containing revised lyrics. Singer Yungblud, who has hailed Osbourne as the greatest of all time, played the song during his farewell concert on July 5. Alice Cooper US rockstar Alice Cooper described Osbourne as an unmatched showman and cultural icon in a social media post that said the band had found out about his death minutes before going on stage in Cardiff, Wales. Cooper and his band dedicated the show to Osbourne and posted a clip of them shouting Ozzy before going onto the stage. Following the show, Cooper summed up his thoughts and said: The whole world is mourning Ozzy tonight. Over his long career, he earned immense respect among his peers and from fans around the world as an unmatched showman and cultural icon. I always saw Ozzy as a cross between the prince of darkness, which is the persona his fans saw, and the court jester. That was the side that his family and friends saw. He was and will continue to be a rock n roll legend. Rock n Roll is a family and a fraternity. When we lose one of our own it bleeds. I wish I would have gotten to know my brother Ozzy better. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and the rest of the Ozzy brood our prayers are with you tonight. A titanic boulder has crashed, but rock will roll on. Ghost Swedish rock band Ghost dedicated their New York show at Madison Square Garden to Osbourne. In a video posted to social media, frontman Tobias Forge said: Were going to dedicate tonights show to the memory of the life and laughter of Ozzy Osbourne. For being the Prince of Darkness, he sure gave us a lot of light. So were going to tap into that tonight and take it forward. Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students in the US who were murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as his sentencing hearing took place. This world was a better place with her in it, Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University at the time. You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, Steve Goncalves said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for four counts of first-degree murder in the brutal stabbing deaths of Ms Mogen, Ms Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin early on November 13 2022. He was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary. The defendant pleaded guilty earlier this month, just weeks before his trial was due to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Kohberger broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, and Kohberger chose not to speak at the hearing. Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, took the light they carried into each room. He is a hollow vessel, something less than human, Mr Mortenson said. A body without empathy, without remorse. Mr Mortenson and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks and anxiety after the attack. I slept in my parents room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Ms Funke wrote in a statement read by a friend. I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or Im about to lose someone else that I love. Bryan Kohberger stabbed four University of Idaho students to death (Kyle Green, Pool/AP) Alivea Goncalvess voice did not waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the killings, including what her sisters last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are, Alivea Goncalves said. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Kohbergers mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defence table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogens grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. Police initially had no suspects in the killings, which terrified the rural western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. A knife sheath left near ms Mogens body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, investigators said, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect and accessed mobile phone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings. A doctor has pleaded guilty to giving Matthew Perry ketamine in the month leading up to the Friends stars overdose death. Dr Salvador Plasencia became the fourth of the five people charged in connection with Perrys death to plead guilty. He stood next to his lawyer and admitted guilt to four counts to Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett in a federal court in Los Angeles. Plasencia, 43, was to have gone on trial in August until the doctor agreed last month to plead guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine, according to the signed document filed in federal court in Los Angeles. He spoke only to answer the judges questions. When asked if his lawyers had considered all the possibilities of pleas and sentencing in the case, Plasencia replied: Theyve considered everything. Matthew Perry died in October 2023 (PA) He had previously pleaded not guilty, but in exchange for the guilty pleas prosecutors have agreed to drop three additional counts of distribution of ketamine and two counts of falsifying records. Prosecutors outlined the charges in court before the plea, and said, as Plasencias lawyers have emphasised, that he did not sell Perry the dose that killed the actor. They described, and Plasencia admitted, that Perry froze up and his blood pressure spiked when the doctor gave him one injection, but Plasencia still left more ketamine for Perrys assistant to inject. Perry was referred to only as victim MP. The charges can carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, and there is no guarantee Plasencia will get less, but he is likely to. He has been free on bond since shortly after his arrest in August, and will be allowed to remain free until his sentencing on December 3. Plasencia left the court with his lawyers without speaking to reporters gathered outside. The only remaining defendant who has not reached an agreement with the US Attorneys Office is Jasveen Sangha, who prosecutors allege is a drug dealer known as the Ketamine Queen and sold Perry the lethal dose. Her trial is scheduled to begin next month. She has pleaded not guilty. According to prosecutors and co-defendants who reached their own deals, Plasencia illegally supplied Perry with a large amount of ketamine starting about a month before his death on October 28 2023. According to a co-defendant, Plasencia in a text message called the actor a moron who could be exploited for money. Perrys personal assistant, his friend, and another doctor all agreed to plead guilty last year in exchange for their co-operation as the government sought to make their case against larger targets, Plasencia and Sangha. None have been sentenced yet. Perry was found dead by the assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. The medical examiner ruled that ketamine, typically used as a surgical anaesthetic, was the primary cause of death. The actor had been using the drug through his regular doctor in a legal but off-label treatment for depression, which has become increasingly common. Perry, 54, began seeking more ketamine than his doctor would give him. Plasencia admitted in his plea agreement that another patient connected him with Perry, and that starting about a month before Perrys death, he illegally supplied the actor with 20 vials of ketamine totalling 100mg of the drug, along with ketamine lozenges and syringes. He admitted to enlisting another doctor, Mark Chavez, to supply the drug for him, according to the court filings. I wonder how much this moron will pay, Plasencia texted Chavez, according to Chavezs plea agreement. After selling the drugs to Perry for 4,500 dollars, Plasencia allegedly asked Chavez if he could keep supplying them so they could become Perrys go-to, prosecutors said. Perry struggled with addiction for years, dating back to his time on Friends, when he became one of the biggest stars of his generation as Chandler Bing. He starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer for 10 seasons of the hit show from 1994 to 2004. With Germany at the helm and regional tensions mounting, the diplomatic window may be closing Braga, Portugal and San Marcos, Ca. (Special to Informed Comment, Feature) France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the European signatories of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Iran Deal of 2015, known as the E3 are now actively considering the reactivation of its so-called snapback mechanisman unprecedented diplomatic step that would restore sweeping United Nations sanctions on Iran and effectively isolate it from the global economy. The E3 will meet with Iran this Friday 25 July in Istanbul, and if they choose the snapback option after this meeting it could be the last straw that pushes Iran to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). By restoring the legal authority of international sanctions, the snapback would remove existing political barriers to further military operations against Irans nuclear program. Western officials, including senior figures in NATO, have privately acknowledged that a multilateral sanctions framework could serve as a platform for more forceful action. For Israel, long skeptical of international diplomacys ability to curtail Irans nuclear progress, such a shift would offer both justification and cover for future strikes, destroying facilities and activities it deems sanctions have not curtailed. For the United States, it could legitimize a more assertive role, even without a formal return to the JCPOA. Tehran has long warned that any move to restore U.N. sanctions would be viewed as a red line. Among the potential scenarios under discussion in Iranian political and military circles are a formal withdrawal from the NPT, an acceleration of uranium enrichment well beyond the current 90 percent threshold, or retaliatory action by proxy groups in Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. Each option carries significant risksboth for the region and for the global nonproliferation regimebut Irans leaders may conclude that, with diplomacy unraveling, escalation is the only remaining leverage. Europes Nonproliferation Policy For more than two decades, Europes approach to Irans nuclear program has been shaped by a combination of geographic anxiety and strategic caution. Given their proximity to the Middle Eastand thus to the potential fallout of any nuclear or military escalationEuropean powers have consistently perceived Irans nuclear ambitions as a direct regional threat. Unlike the United States or Israel, however, European states have been wary of pursuing counter-proliferation through military force. After the chaotic outcomes of Western interventions in Iraq and Libya, European policymakers grew increasingly convinced that diplomacynot confrontationwas the only viable path forward. When the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed in 2015 during the Obama administration, European capitals greeted it as a diplomatic triumph, finally offering a framework to cap Irans nuclear program under an international inspections regime, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The IAEA repeatedly confirmed Irans compliance, reinforcing Europes confidence in the deal. Iran never actually received the sanctions relief promised to it for dismantling 80% of its civilian nuclear enrichment program, since the US Congress refused to lift third-party sanctions, preventing substantial European trade with and investment in Iran. When the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, European signatories of the JCPOA sought to distance themselves from Washingtons maximum pressure campaign. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom even established a financial mechanism known as INSTEX, intended to allow trade with Iranparticularly for humanitarian goodsoutside of the U.S.-dominated financial system. The effort was symbolic, and ultimately ineffective, but it underscored Europes broader commitment to preserving diplomacy. Now, however, the tone has shifted. With the Islamic Republics uranium enrichment levels reaching 60% (95% is needed for a bomb) and international inspectors increasingly restricted, European patience appears to have run out, especially amid reports that Irans stockpile of highly enriched uranium might have survived the 12-Day war. With the U.S. and Israel having dealt a devastating blow to Irans nuclear infrastructurewithout sparking a regional war or imposing any direct risk to European soilthe calculus in Europe is shifting. With little left of Irans nuclear program to defend, European powers appear ready to re-align with Washington, politically supporting the U.S. effort to push for a new agreementthis time, one that likely leaves no room for Iranian enrichment capabilities at all. Germany, Israels staunchest ally in the EU, has emerged as the most vocal proponent of reactivating the snapback clause. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, addressing Irans nuclear issue, went even further to say that attacking Irans nuclear facilities was dirty work that Israel did for us. French and British officials have expressed cautious agreement, signaling that Europe may be on the verge of aligning with U.S. priorities after nearly a decade of divergence. Originally embedded in the JCPOA and enshrined in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231, snapback allows any participant of the original nuclear agreement to unilaterally trigger the reimposition of all U.N. sanctions on Iran. Once activated, the mechanism bypasses the need for a new Security Council vote and automatically reinstates sanctions that were lifted in exchange for Irans compliance with the nuclear accord. Crucially, neither Russia nor Chinaboth permanent members of the Councilcan veto the measure, a safeguard deliberately designed to avoid diplomatic deadlock. The Iranian Reaction For Iran, the stakes are high. The return of U.N. sanctions would bring back a host of punitive measures: a total arms embargo, severe restrictions on its ballistic missile program, prohibitions on nuclear research, and tight limits on oil exports and financial transactions. While the country has grown accustomed to U.S. sanctions, which were unilaterally reimposed in 2018 following Washingtons withdrawal from the JCPOA under President Donald Trump, the reactivation of snapback would internationalize Irans isolation and compel compliance even from reluctant actors like China, India, and Turkey. Unlike American sanctions, which rely heavily on secondary enforcement and financial coercion, U.N.-mandated sanctions would be legally binding for all member states. As the international community weighs the activation of snapback, a defining moment approaches. What was once a fragile agreement aimed at de-escalation is now becoming a vehicle for confrontation. Whether this shift will bring resolution or deepen the regions volatility remains uncertain. But the message from Europe, particularly from Berlin, is increasingly clear: the window for negotiation is closing, and a new phase of confrontation may already be underway. By Ciara Smart, University of Tasmania (The Conversation) Love them or hate them, theres no doubt Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap are having a moment. Their music delivered in a powerful fusion of English and Irish is known for its gritty lyrics about party drugs and working-class life in post-Troubles Ireland. More recently, the group has made headlines for its outspoken support for the Palestinian people. British police have charged member Liam Og O hAnnaidh (known by his stage name Mo Chara) with a terrorism offence. O hAnnaidh was charged in May, after being accused of displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London concert in November. KNEECAP Fine Art (Glastonbury 2025) Please enable JavaScript play-sharp-fill Embed Copy and paste this HTML code into your webpage to embed. KNEECAP - Fine Art (Glastonbury 2025) But this isnt the first time an Irish republican group has courted controversy for backing other oppressed peoples. This has been happening for almost two centuries. Unsanitised and vocal support Ireland is composed of 32 counties. Twenty-six are in the Republic of Ireland, while six are part of the United Kingdom in Northern Ireland. When the British government withdrew from most of Ireland in 1921, the Irish Free State was largely Catholic, while Northern Ireland was more heavily Protestant. But these divisions are becoming increasingly irrelevant. While Ireland is still split across two nations, public support for Irish unity remains strong, particularly among citizens of the Republic. Kneecaps members are from Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. They are also fierce republicans, which means they want to see Ireland united as one nation. One of their most popular songs, Get Your Brits Out, calls for the British states withdrawal from Northern Ireland. The group has experienced a meteoric rise in recent years, helped by a semi-autobiographical film released last year. They have reclaimed the term Fenian, often used as an anti-Irish slur. Their decision to rap in Irish is also a cultural milestone, as the language was suppressed in Northern Ireland for most of the 20th century, only achieving official language status in 2022. Despite being undeniable provocateurs, they claim they arent interested in reigniting Catholic-Protestant conflict. They celebrate the similarities between both groups, rather than highlight their differences. O hAnnaidhs alleged terrorism offence came after he waved a Hezbollah flag at a London gig and chanted Up Hamas, up Hezbollah. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are considered terrorist groups in Britain. He will face court on August 20. Irish-Maori solidarity Kneecap is carrying on a long tradition of Irish groups who faced controversy for denouncing the oppressive acts of powerful states. In the 19th century, several Irish nationalist groups expressed solidarity with other colonised peoples, especially Maori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Groups such as the Irish Republican Brotherhood (whose members were called Fenians) arguably saw Maori and Irish as co-victims of a tyrannical state. Irish nationalist newspapers often wrote sympathetically about the colonisation of New Zealand, and tried to inspire Ireland to resist British subjugation, like Maori seemed to be doing. In July 1864, the Fenian newspaper The Irish People stressed British hypocrisy. It wrote, savages we call [Maori], using the arrogant language of civilisation, but, honestly, they deserve to be characterised by a much better word. It also scoffed at the unconquerable propensity of the Anglo-Saxon to plunder the lands of other people a propensity which manifests itself most strikingly alike in Ireland and New Zealand. Similarly, in December 1868, the nationalist newspaper The Nation contrasted valiant Maori with terrified British. It sarcastically described Maori as rebels (men fighting for their own rights on their own soil) and mocked the British forces as valiant men who could bully a priest. The article finished on a sombre note: Mere valour will in the end go down before the force of numbers and the cunning of diplomacy. Rumours of a secret rebellion Other Irish leaders, such as the nationalist Michael Davitt, saw inspirational parallels between the nonviolent campaign of Charles Stewart Parnell, the 19th century leader of the Irish Home Rule movement, and Maori leader Te Whiti-o-Rongomai. In Ireland, Parnell encouraged poor tenant farmers to pause rent payments to their British landlords. In New Zealand, Te Whiti encouraged Maori to dismantle colonially-constructed fences and plough the land for themselves. Both were arrested in 1881 within three weeks of each other. So strong was the sense of kinship between Irish and Maori that, in the 1860s, there were persistent rumours of a joint Irish-Maori rebellion reported in the media and even New Zealands parliament. In March, 1869, the conservative New Zealand newspaper Daily Southern Cross reported a large number of Maori have decided on joining the Fenian Brotherhood, and have adopted the green flag as their national emblem. Later that year, the paper reported the supposed Fenians told a Maori resistance group that, like the Maori, they hate the British rule, and are prepared to make common cause [] to overthrow that rule in New Zealand. However, these rumours were probably no more than a conspiracy fuelled by racist anti-Irish paranoia. Actions and outcomes Any tangible results of cross-cultural sympathy from 19th century Irish nationalists were mixed, at best. My ongoing research shows solidarity with Maori was partly motivated by humanitarian motives, but was also often used to make a point about Ireland. Protest, Digital, ChatGPT, 2025 Identifying with another oppressed peoples within the context of a corrupt empire was a powerful way to argue for improved political recognition within Ireland. Irish nationalists generally didnt do much other than declare their sympathy. Kneecap, on the other hand, seems willing to bear the legal and financial consequences of being vocal about human rights abuses in Gaza. Some of their shows have been cancelled, and funding providers have withdrawn. While curated rebellion can be lucrative in show-business, Kneecap says the controversy following them is a distraction. They insist the world should focus squarely on Gaza instead. Ciara Smart, PhD Graduand in Australasian Irish History, University of Tasmania This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. ( Middle East Monitor ) In Gaza, mornings no longer begin with the sound of explosions but with the quiet, urgent cries of hunger. Mothers wake to infants with no milk. Children search for scraps to ease empty stomachs before the bombs return to flatten what little hope remains. This isnt exaggeration. Its a grim, documented reality. Gaza is not only under bombardment its under siege. And the weapon now cutting deepest is starvation. Because hunger is silent, the world looks away, as if a slow death does not count. For months, Gazans have faced a dual siege: daily airstrikes and international indifference. Border crossings remain closed. Those searching for food are shot. Humanitarian supply lines are systematically broken. Bread has become a fantasy. Water is a daily fight. Medicine, a rare miracle. Humanitarian catastrophe no longer captures it. Whats unfolding now is a deliberate campaign of starvation one that meets every definition, legal and moral, of genocide. Footage smuggled out of Gaza shows children collapsing while queuing for bread, families surviving on weeds, mothers dividing a single loaf between four hungry children. Its not the bombs killing them its the slow wasting of malnourished bodies. The people of Gaza are not asking for the impossible. They are asking for a shred of global conscience. But what hurts even more than the hunger is the silence. In the early days of the assault, Western leaders issued cautious statements: calls for restraint, reminders of international law, expressions of concern. But those voices have since faded. Forgotten. Buried in old press releases. No action followed. No policies changed. Instead, support for Israel intensified. Some governments even suspended funding to the UNs main relief agency, UNRWA in the middle of Gazas collapse. Have you ever heard of a government withdrawing aid from a humanitarian agency while children are starving? It happened. And it happened quietly. As Nelson Mandela once said: To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity. Today, Gaza is being punished not only with bombs, but with hunger a form of collective punishment enabled by an international consensus too timid to speak out. You wont find this consensus in official statements, but youll see it in every sealed border, every empty bowl, and every child who cries from thirst. According to UN agencies: Food insecurity has reached catastrophic levels. Over 90 per cent of children in Gaza are malnourished. Infant deaths from starvation and dehydration are now a daily reality. Yet the world remains still. Worse still, some governments continue to justify Israels actions under the banner of self-defence as if using starvation as a weapon were somehow legitimate. But it isnt just the West that bears responsibility. Egypt too must answer for its role. The Rafah crossing Gazas only exit not controlled by Israel has been shut for months. Cairo waits for Tel Avivs permission to let aid in or patients out. When will we stop pretending this is neutrality? This is complicity. Al Jazeera English: Many Palestinians in Gaza are just skin and bone: Doctor Please enable JavaScript play-sharp-fill Embed Copy and paste this HTML code into your webpage to embed. 'Many Palestinians in Gaza are just skin and bone': Doctor And what of the Arab governments who have normalised ties with Israel? Some have remained silent. Others have gone further, publicly strengthening relations while Gaza starves. At least the West doesnt claim kinship. But these regimes do while doing nothing to stop the suffering of fellow Palestinians. As former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan once warned: When food becomes a weapon, humanity itself has collapsed. Gaza is facing that collapse and the international system is allowing it to happen. Yet despite everything, Gaza endures. Its people turn hunger into defiance. They resist, even when stripped of everything. In Gaza, dignity isnt found in comfort its found in survival. Gaza 46, Digital, Midjourney / IbisPaint, 2025 But lets be honest: Israel cannot sustain this alone. It relies on silence. On selective outrage. On diplomatic cover. And that is exactly what it gets from world powers who claim to care about human rights but choose which victims matter. So who is really standing with Gaza? Not governments. Not institutions. But ordinary people. Protesters. Citizens. The ones who still have a conscience and refuse to look away. Gaza doesnt want pity. It wants justice. It demands an end to the genocide and accountability for those who enable it. The question is no longer: What is happening? We know. The question is: Who will act? And when history is written who will be remembered for their silence? Because silence, in the face of starvation, is not neutrality. It is complicity. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. Via Middle East Monitor Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Noble Plains Uranium Corp. (TSXV: NOBL) (OTCQB: NBLXF) (FSE: INE0) ("Noble Plains" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has staked an additional 16 mineral claims covering approximately 320 acres on the eastern side of its existing Shirley East Project in Wyoming's Shirley Basin. This strategic expansion increases Noble Plains' footprint in one of the most historically productive and actively resurging uranium districts in the United States. The newly staked claims are located directly adjacent to lands held by Uranium Energy Corp (UEC) and are underpinned by historical aerial data showing over 174 drillholes. The tight clusters of past drilling activitystrongly correlated with zones of higher uranium mineralization in the 1980's, are the key target areas of the newly staked projects. "This staking expands our presence in a district that has already proven its value," said Paul Cowley, CEO of Noble Plains Uranium. "We identified this area through historical aerial datasets that revealed concentrated legacy drill patterns. These patterns are closely associated with higher mineralized zones and staking these claims allows us to consolidate a highly prospective area next to a major uranium player." Figure 1 - Newly Staked claims with Historical Drill hole locations The Shirley Basin produced over 51 million pounds of uranium between 1960 and 1992 and is now seeing a resurgence in development and investment. By extending the Company's existing project area, Noble Plains not only strengthens its land position but also unlocks exploration efficienciesleveraging permitting, logistics, and future resource delineation across a broader claim package. This expansion is consistent with the Company's focused strategy: to build a pipeline of uranium pounds in the ground by targeting brownfield and historically mineralized projects in top-tier U.S. jurisdictions with ISR (In-Situ Recovery) potential. Noble Plains' Shirley Basin holdings now include the Shirley Central and the expanded Shirley East project growing the companies footprint with both near-term drill targets and long-term growth potential. The Company is actively advancing multiple properties across Wyoming's Powder River and Shirley basins, with field programs and permitting underway for planned drilling in 2025. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, "Paul Cowley", CEO "Drew Zimmerman", President This news release includes certain forward-looking statements as well as management's objectives, strategies, beliefs and intentions. 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 including the Company's ability to strengthen market engagement and build long-term shareholder value and the anticipated enhancement of governance and strategic capabilities through the appointment of Ms. Meleger. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management. All forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, fluctuating commodity prices, competitive risks and the availability of financing, as described in more detail in our recent securities filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and we caution against placing undue reliance thereon. We assume no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements except as required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Vancouver, B.C. TheNewswire - July 23, 2025 Belmont Resources Inc. (TSX.V: BEA; FSE: L3L2) (Belmont or the Company) announces the appointment of Patrick Brandl as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2025. Mr. Brandl will succeed George Sookochoff, who has stepped down from his executive role to pursue other professional opportunities. Mr. Sookochoff will continue to serve as a member of Belmonts Board of Directors, ensuring continuity during the leadership transition. Mr. Brandl has been a Director of Belmont Resources since 2023 and brings over a decade of experience in corporate governance, project oversight, and strategic development within the resource sector. He also represents HMS Bergbau AG, a global commodities firm and recent major shareholder of Belmont, signaling a closer alignment between the Companys leadership and its long-term financial and strategic partners. This appointment supports Belmonts ongoing commitment to advancing its key exploration projects, strengthening its capital position, and creating long-term value for shareholders. Mr. Brandl will serve in the interim capacity while the Board undertakes a formal search for a permanent President and CEO. About Belmont Belmont has assembled a portfolio of highly prospective copper, gold, lithium, uranium and rare earths projects located in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Washington and Nevada States. Flagship projects: Come By Chance (CBC) Property: A 2,000 meter drilling program was recently completed. Core logging is ongoing with drill samples being sent to the analytical laboratory on a regular basis. Athelstan-Jackpot (A-J) Gold British Columbia: A-J Gold Project, which includes two past producing gold minesAthelstan and Jackpotthat yielded 7,600 ounces of gold and 9,000 ounces of silver (Minfile 082ESE047). Key highlights of the project include: Extensive Surface Gold Mineralization: A 1,500-meter gold trend with widespread surface gold mineralization has been identified. Exploration Focus: Belmont is investigating the potential for economic gold grades in mineable surface and near-surface ore zones along this trend. Crackingstone Uranium Located in Saskatchewan's uranium-rich Athabasca Basin. Exceptional High-Grade Uranium Potential: The property has demonstrated historic grab sample grades of up to 15.6% UO. Previous mining on the site produced 11 tons at an average grade of 2.3% UO. (A Qualifying 43-101 Report On the Crackingstone River-Ruza Property Beaverlodge District SE of Uranium City Saskatchewan for Belmont Resources Inc. By R.A. Bernatchez, P. Eng. Consulting Geologist, July 11, 2006) Extensive Mineralized Corridors: Three major conductive and structural mineralized corridors, totaling 10 kilometers in length, have been identified and are associated with high-grade uranium occurrences. Comprehensive Drilling Program: Belmont has submitted a permit application for a two-year drilling initiative, which includes 40 drill holes totaling 10,000 meters. This program reflects the companys confidence in the propertys potential to host significant uranium resources. Situated just six kilometers from Uranium City, the Crackingstone property benefits from excellent infrastructure, including road access, power availability, and logistical support. Belmonts exploration efforts also include evaluating rare earth element (REE) potential on the property, further enhancing its strategic importance. Our Option Partner: Lone Star Copper-Gold Washington State: 50% optioned to Australian Marquee Resources ASX:MQR; MQR has spent $2.5M in drilling, completed new resource in Dec. 2022 and a PEA in November 2023. (BEA NR Nov. 29, 2023) Kibby Basin Lithium Nevada State: 80% optioned to Australian Marquee Resources ASX: MQR; project located 60 kilometers north of the lithium rich Clayton Valley Basin. MQR has spent $2.5M in drilling in 2022 for potential deep seated lithium brine. 2022 Drilling confirmed high levels of lithium-bearing sediments along with dissolved lithium in the groundwater. (BEA NR Dec 8, 2022). NI 43-101 Disclosure: Mr. Laurence Sookochoff, P.Eng., independent consultant for Belmont Resources Inc., is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content in this news release. On Behalf of the Board George Sookochoff George Sookochoff, President/CEO This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. C: 604-505-4061 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This Press Release may contain forward-looking statements that may involve a number of risks and uncertainties, based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of exploration and other risk factors beyond its control. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Companies forward-looking statements and expectations. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that we may not be able to obtain regulatory approval; that we may not be able to raise funds required, that conditions to closing may not be fulfilled and we may not be able to organize and carry out an exploration program in 2025, and other risks associated with being a mineral exploration and development company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results differed from those projected in the forward-looking statements. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xali Gold Corp. (TSXV:XGC) ("Xali Gold or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed strategic data compilation studies on the Sarape silver-gold Project (Sarape or the Project), in Northern Mexico under option from Advanced Lithium Corp. (AALI). Xali Gold optioned the Sarape Project believing that it covers the northerly extension of a trend of multiple low-sulphidation veins systems including the high-grade silver and gold system at the Las Chispas Mine roughly 20 km to the southwest (Figure 1). Prior to Las Chispas being sold to Couer Mining Inc. (Couer) by SilverCrest Metals for C$2.4 billion, Las Chispas was estimated to contain Proven and Probable Reserves of 33.5M ounces (oz) of silver (Ag) and 357,000 oz of gold (Au). Two extensive vein structures found on Sarape appear to be typical of low-sulphidation epithermal systems like those at Las Chispas, where mineral-rich fluids deposit silver and gold within a specific zone known as the boiling zone. Within this zone, the highest-grade mineralization often occurs in secondary shoots controlled by structural features. This type of epithermal system is common in northern Mexico and includes notable examples like Coeurs Las Chispas Mine, First Majestic Silvers Santa Elena Mine and Bear Creek Minings Mercedes Mine (Figure 1), which share similar geological characteristics. Since optioning Sarape, Xali Golds exploration team, Enrique Bernuy and Matthew Melnyk, have been compiling and reviewing all historical drill data available and have identified boiling zone textures in drill core that increase with depth. These findings, together with anomalous levels of silver and gold found on surface and in drilling to date, have been compared to many other prolific systems visited by our team in Argentina, Mexico, Peru and Chile (such as El Oro (8M oz Au), Calcatreu (1M oz Au Equivalent (Eq)), Los Gatos (2.9M oz Au & 135.2M oz Ag), Cerro Vanguardia (1.8M oz Au), Promontorio (140.8M oz Ag Eq), Troique (11.2M oz Au Eq)) for both major and junior companies. All of this is key to designing the exploration work required to delineate the best drill targets. We are very pleased that our exploration team has been able to recognize key vectors to precious metals bearing boiling zones occurring below and lateral to previous drilling. We optioned the project having recognized that key aspects of two known veins on Sarape indicate excellent potential to host high grades of silver and gold mineralization similar to Las Chispas and many other low-sulphidation systems in deposits and mines both in Mexico and elsewhere. Now we have several key vectors, including geochemistry, lithologies, alteration, and vein textures to direct our exploration and drilling, says Joanne Freeze, Xali Gold President and CEO. This gives us a clear path forward, and we look forward to the next phase of work, including detailed geological mapping, re-logging of historic drill core, targeted sampling, and the delineation of drill targets to fully assess Sarapes potential. Joanne Freeze will participate in a webinar hosted by Adelaide Capital at 2:00 pm ET today (Wednesday, July 23rd) to discuss the Sarape Project in more detail. Questions can be submitted during the session or in advance to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lLTBiIwzSZ2gQM-QRUhpMQ. The webinar livestream will also be available to watch on the Adelaide Capital YouTube Channel, where a replay will be posted after the event: https://bit.ly/adcap-youtube. Figure 1: Sarape location map showing proximity to major producing mines The Sarape Project is located in the Rio Sonora Valley of northern Mexico and comprises two main epithermal veins - Sarape and Chiltepin - that lie on either side of an uplifted block of volcanic rock. Many vein exposures and drill intersections display high-level low-sulphidation epithermal features and elevated gold-silver values. The highest-grade samples reported from surface were 3.63 grams per tonne (gpt) Au and 10.25 gpt Ag over 0.5m at the Sarape vein and 3.66 gpt Au and 177 gpt Ag over 1.0m from the Chiltepin vein. The Sarape vein, which varies in width from 3 to 12 metres (m), has been mapped and sampled over a strike length of 5000m, of which only 1.2km has been drill tested. Previous drilling on the project, from 2019 to 2020, included 19 holes targeting the Sarape Vein of which nine intersected the vein. The Chiltepin Vein, which averages 3m in width on surface, has been traced over a strike length of 2500m and occurs south of the Sarape Vein. Two holes drilled between 2019 and 2020 targeted the Chiltepin vein, and anomalous levels of gold and silver were intersected. Highlights from previous drilling on the Sarape Vein showed elevated gold and silver values which are typical for levels above the boiling zone in low-sulphidation systems and confirm that the epithermal fluids are precious metal-bearing. Results include: 0.52 gpt Au and 10.7 gpt Ag over 4.26m (76.50m to 80.76m) in SAR19-02 0.55 gpt Au and 31.0 gpt Ag over 1.4m (201.60m to 203.00m) in SAR19-04 0.31 gpt Au and 20.7 gpt Ag over 1.47m (302.05m to 303.53m) in SAR19-05 0.57 gpt Au and 24.3 gpt Ag over 2.24m (261.46m to 263.70m) in SAR19-06 0.22 gpt Au and 5.5 gpt Ag over 11.57m (295.43m to 307.00m) in SAR19-08 1.49 gpt Au and 7.4 gpt Ag over 6.75m (93.90m to 100.65m) in SAR19-012 The comprehensive review of historical data includes drill core photos, logs, assays, and geological maps. Most of the historical exploration and all previous drilling have focused on the central portion of the Sarape Vein. This analysis revealed that textures typically associated with the boiling zone are present in the historically drilled area (Photos 1 - 3), and a fence of drill holes suggests that these textures improve with depth, indicating that the full boiling zone is likely preserved below the current levels of drilling. Additionally, drilling along strike has intersected the vein but likely only the upper part of the mineralized zone, indicating that the system may gently to moderately plunge, which is consistent with other regional deposits (Figure 2). Supporting this interpretation are low gold-silver ratios, classic boiling textures, near-equal proportions of quartz and calcite, and anomalous antimony-gold-silver values. Together, these features suggest that the exposed veins on the Project represent the upper levels of a low-sulphidation epithermal system, with the potential for stronger mineralization at depth. These deeper zones now represent compelling targets for follow-up drilling. Additionally, since epithermal veins often occur in clusters, the Sarape Project also remains open for further exploration to identify additional near-surface and blind veins. Photo 1: Banded, rhythmic, colloform, crustiform texture in Hole SAR19-04 (24.68m of 0.18 gpt Au and 8.9 gpt Ag). Photo 2: Boiling Texture Quartz replacing carbonate lattice calcite in Hole SAR19-04. Photo 3: Colloform, banded texture in Hole SAR19-05 Figure 2: Long section of Sarape Vein Future Exploration Xali Gold is planning an exploration program to better delineate drill targets by surface mapping, core re-logging and re-sampling. In the historic drill core, particular focus will be given to vein textures, cross-cutting relationships between vein phases, and any visible signs of mineralization. Where appropriate, samples will be collected for assay to better understand how each vein phase contributes to mineralization. A 3D geological model will then be developed to accurately represent the vein geometry, structural framework, and historical drill results. This model, along with insights from mapping and regional analogues, will form the basis for drilling by Xali Gold. Additional information about the Sarape Project, including the terms of the agreement with AALI, can be found in the February 28th, 2025 News Release and on the Xali Gold website. About Xali Gold Xali Gold holds several gold and silver projects in both Mexico and Peru. Xali Gold has recently acquired the right to earn a 49% interest in the Sarape silver-gold Project (Sarape), in Northern Mexico from Advanced Lithium Corp. The Sarape Project is located in the Rio Sonora Valley of northern Mexico, a prolific gold-silver mining district that includes First Majestic Silvers Santa Elena/Ermitano Mine, Premier Gold Mines Mercedes Mine and Coeur Minings Las Chispas Mine. The Sarape Project is located approximately 20 km northeast of the Las Chispas Mine which was recently purchased by Coeur for C$2.4 billion. Xali Gold recognizes the Project's immense potential and plans to leverage our expertise in low-sulphidation epithermal gold systems such as El Oro, to unlock its full value. Las Chispas, Ermitano and Sarape have similar geological settings, occur within the same structural corridor and are all low-sulphidation epithermal vein projects. Las Chispas and Ermitano are high-grade gold and silver mines, with low costs of production and generate remarkable free cash flow. The Companys flagship project, El Oro, is a district scale historic producer of gold and silver. While the Companys main goal at El Oro is to make a new discovery, similar to the multi-million ounce (oz) gold and silver ore bodies mined historically, the Company has entered into two agreements with third parties for the rights to produce gold and silver from specific shallow areas of the El Oro Project which are expected to bring in cash flow and open up underground access for drilling. The El Oro property hosts 20 veins with past production and more than 57 veins in total, with two veins alone producing approximately 6.4M ozs of gold and 74M ozs of silver from mining that averaged only 200m depth (Ref. Mexico Geological Service Bulletin Nr. 37, Mining of the El Oro and Tlalpujahua Districts, by T. Flores in 1920). With renewed interest in gold and silver exploration in South America, Xali Gold has recently been reviewing high-sulphidation gold targets with features similar to Yanacocha and Pierina, within proven high-sulphidation epithermal belts in Peru. Joanne Freeze, CEO of Xali Gold was the Qualified Person for the Pierina project from discovery to purchase by Barrick. The Company maintains other properties in Peru. Xali Gold is dedicated to being a responsible community partner. Joanne C. Freeze, P.Geo., President and CEO is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 for the projects discussed above. Ms. Freeze has reviewed and approved the contents of this release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. On behalf of the Board of Xali Gold Corp. Joanne Freeze P.Geo. President, CEO and Director For further information please contact: Joanne Freeze, President & CEO Tel: + 1 604-512-3359 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-looking Information This news release may contain forward-looking information (as such term is defined under Canadian securities laws) including but not limited to historical production records and resource estimates. While such forward-looking information is expressed by Xali Gold in good faith and believed by Xali Gold to have a reasonable basis, they may address future events and conditions and are therefore subject to inherent risks and uncertainties including those set out in Xali Golds MD&A. Factors that cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking information include, without limitation, gold prices, results of exploration and development activities, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of materials and equipment, timeliness of government approvals, potential environmental issues, availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Xali Gold expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Route 109 Resources Inc. (TSXV: RTE) (OTCQB: MRIRF) (FSE: 8M0) ("Route109" or the "Company") announces results from its 2025 winter drilling program on Dunlop Bay property confirming the presence of a Au-Cu-Mo porphyry-style mineralized system related with the Dunlop Bay intrusion. The 2025 winter program included two drillholes designed to test the eastern tip of the Dunlop Bay Intrusion (see drillhole BD-25-31 and BD-25-32 on Figure 1). Those drillholes intersected intrusive rocks that returned anomalous Au-Cu-Mo results. A similar base metals package that was found and assay results were released previously released for Dunlop Bay West (see May 29, 2025 Route109 Press Release). The information obtained from these drill holes (Table 1) coupled with historical information (Table 2, GM 48615 and GM 44938) allow the company to conclude that a part of the mineralization found on the Dunlop Bay property is related to a porphyry-style system which is atypical of the Matagami region. Figure 1: 2025 Dunlop Bay property drilling program planned collars. Results presented in Table 1, compared with previously released information from Dunlop Bay North, Clairet and Dunlop Bay West (see May 29, 2025 Route109 Press Release), show two different styles of mineralization. Dunlop Bay West, located near the intrusion contact and drillholes 31 and 32, located within the Dunlop Bay intrusion, both reveal enrichment in Mo-Cu-Au when compared to the Clairet and Dunlop Bay North areas, located more distally from the intrusion and hosting a much more classical VMS-related base metal enrichment. Robert Pryde, CEO of the company said: "We are quite excited by the evidence of porphyry-style mineralization within the Dunlop Bay property. Over a three-year period, RTE has been actively exploring for high-grade gold and silver within the Abitibi Greenstone belt complexes in the Matagami region. These results show the exploration potential of the property which needs to be followed up with additional geophysics and drilling targeting the porphyry system." DDH From To Length Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Mo (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) BD-25-31 18.5 19 0.5 7.05 11.6 569 5 17 88 34 34.5 0.5 0.024 0.25 157 136 7 80 50 50.5 0.5 0.291 0.25 136 7 4 96 52 52.5 0.5 0.048 0.25 206 1620 3 103 57.5 58 0.5 0.391 0.7 173 9 3 100 72.9 73.4 0.5 0.152 0.25 1130 6 2 92 72.9 73.4 0.5 0.152 0.25 1130 6 2 92 192 192.5 0.5 0.136 0.25 389 23 4 71 BD-25-32 41.8 43 1.2 0.126 0.25 34 1 7 32 49.2 51.7 2.5 0.427 1.47 95.32 11.12 0 24.6 58.5 60 1.5 0.219 0.25 55 2 3 27 63 63.7 0.7 0.344 0.25 12 2 2 25 73.5 74.1 0.6 0.706 1.3 67 5 10 42 98.4 99.3 0.9 0.11 0.5 420 3 5 56 104.6 108.45 3.85 0.242 2.38 1283.97 12.86 0 36.52 133.5 134.1 0.6 0.205 1.7 11 2 7 39 Table 1: Best results from drillholes BD-25-31 and BD-25-32 located within the Dunlop Bay intrusion. As displayed in Figure 1 and Table 1, several gold intersections were encountered in the Dunlop Bay Intrusion by historical drilling. This winter program further validates the presence of gold in the intrusion as well as demonstrates the presence of Cu and Mo in association with the gold. Table 2: Highlights from historical drilling located within the Dunlop Bay intrusion (source: GM 48615 and GM 44938). As shown in Table 2 and Figure 2, both drill holes returned several gold showings (going up to 7.05 ppm Au, 11.60 ppm Ag, 569 ppm Cu over 0.5 meter in drillhole BD-25-31), copper (0.13% Cu over 3.85 meters in drillhole BD-25-32), and molybdenum (going up to 1620 ppm Mo over 0.50 meter in drillhole BD-25-31). Note that drillhole BD-25-31, drilled westward, intersected a diorite intrusive body (low content of potassic felspar, see Figure 3A) while BD-25-32, drilled eastward, intersected a syenite intrusive body (up to 85% feldspar, mostly potassic, see Figure 3B). Due to overburden thickness a 38-meter untested gap, which hosts the contact between the two intrusive units, as of yet remains unexplored. Figure 2: Cross section looking at N341 showing drill hole BD-25-31 and BD-25-32 geology and assay. Core photos presented in Figure 3B, show the syenite as mainly massive, medium to coarse grained and hosts several intervals containing veinlets, sericite-albite-silicification and/or hematisation alterations. The diorite presented in Figure 3A is described as massive, medium to coarse grained and with a weak to moderate epidote, calcite and local potassic alterations. For both drillholes, intervals returning gold, copper, and molybdenum are correlating with observed veinlets and alterations. This type of mineralization is not common to the immediate Matagami area, the best example in Archean rocks is the Cu-Au-Mo system in the Chibougamau area, in the NZV of the Abitibi belt, Quebec (Labbe et al., 2006). The characteristics of these porphyry deposits include: 1) networks of veinlets and fractures mineralized with pyrite + chalcopyrite + Mo, 2) massive sulfide lodes of kilometric extent bordered by chlorite and sericite alteration, 3) different generations of hydrothermal breccia, and 4) "inter-mineralization" dykes (Pilote et al., 1998). It is noteworthy that mineralization in the Dunlop block is interpreted to be genetically related to a porphyry system (Dunlop West, Pluton and the NW2 2023 trenches) and shares similar characteristics to the "Chibougamau" type, Porphyry such as: massive sulfide lodes, veins, breccia-hosted sulfides and sulfide disseminations. Figure 3: A) Dioritic rock from BD-25-31; B) Syenitic rock from BD-25-32. It is interpreted that mineralization of the Dunlop West, Pluton and the NW2 2023 trenches are genetically related to the same porphyry system: 1) Porphyry types are commonly huge mineralized systems as exemplified by the Chibougamau area. 2) All the showings are aligned along a >2km long N-S trend, coincident with a N-S high mag trend (Figure 4). This trend is mostly untested by drilling. 3) The Dunlop Bay showing can also be included in the N-S trend (Figure 4), where mineralized loads are NW trending, whereas the Marcelle vein also curves to an N-S strike westward. 4) Finally, because the pluton is late tectonic, mineralization was fed from below. Consequently, the showings are interpreted to be the upper part exposures of a more developed and continuous mineralization at depth. This new interpretation of the N-S trending mineralizing system opens up the exploration potential along an N-S trend over a 2km long strike length". Laurentia Exploration of Saguenay Quebec was responsible for the drilling program, core logging and sample selection for geochemical sampling and assay. Figure 4 - Dunlop Bay Property 2025 Drilling Results Prospective Porphyry outline in Red Qualified Person Maxime Bouchard, Geo, M.Sc. (OGQ #1752), an independent Qualified Person as defined by Canadian NI 43-101 standards, has reviewed, and approved the geological information reported in this news release. The exploration and soil program were planned and supervised by Maxime Bouchard. The Qualified Person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on the Property, particularly regarding historical drill results. However, the Qualified Person believes that drilling and analytical results were completed to industry standard practices. The information provides an indication of the exploration potential of the Property but may not be representative of expected results. About Route 109 Resources Inc. Route 109 Resources Inc. is a junior Canadian mining exploration company with the primary objective to acquire, explore, and develop viable gold and base metal projects in the mining-friendly jurisdiction of Quebec, Canada. Route109 is currently fully focused on its 100% interest in the two projects, both located in the prolific Abitibi greenstone belt: King Tut Project consists of 120 contiguous claims on 5,206 hectares Dunlop Bay Project consists of 76 mineral claims that cover 4,226 hectares Route109 common shares trade under the symbol "RTE" on the TSX-V and under the symbol 8M0 on the Frankfurt Exchange. 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. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (as defined under applicable securities laws), based on management's best estimates, assumptions, and current expectations. Such statements include but are not limited to, statements with respect to the plans for future exploration and development of the King Tut and Dunlop Bay properties and the acquisition of additional exploration projects. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts" , "anticipates" "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the King Tut and Dunlop Bay projects; risks related to general economic conditions, actual results of current exploration activities, unanticipated reclamation expenses; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; fluctuations in prices of metals including gold; increases in market prices of mining consumables, possible variations in resource estimates, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes, title disputes, claims and limitations on insurance coverage and other risks of the mining industry; delays in the completion of exploration, development or construction activities, changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations, and political and economic developments in areas in which the Company operates. 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. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as require by law. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. Please refer to the Company's most recent filings under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca for further information respecting the risks affecting the Company and its business. References: LABBE, J.-Y. - PILOTE, P. - LAMOTHE, D. 2006 - Evaluation du potentiel mineral pour les gites porphyriques de Cu-Au-Mo de l'Abitibi. Ressources naturelles et Faune, Quebec, EP 2006-03. 46 p. PILOTE, P. - ROBERT, F. - KIRKHAM, R.V. - DAIGNEAULT, R. - SINCLAIR, W.D., 1998 - Mineralisations de type porphyrique et filoniennes dans le Complexe du lac Dore - les secteurs du lac Clark et de l'ile Merrill. Dans : Geologie et metallogenie du district minier de Chapais-Chibougamau; editeur : P. Pilote. Ministere des Ressources naturelles, Quebec; DV 98-03, page 71-90. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - AVANTI GOLD CORP. (CSE: AGC) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has appointed Martin Pawlitschek as a Director of the Board of the Company. Martin is a geologist and mining executive with over 30 years of international experience in mineral exploration, resource development and mining investment with significant experience in the mining sector in Africa and brings a wealth of experience that will help propel the growth of the Company. "We are delighted to welcome Martin to the Board of Avanti. Martin brings with him invaluable experience and knowledge of the African mining industry and will make a significant contribution to the company's trajectory," said Sir Sam Jonah, Chairman of the Board of Avanti Gold. About Martin Pawlitschek Mr. Pawlitschek, has extensive experience in the mining sector, particularly in Africa including in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Sanu Gold Corp. (CSE: SANU), an exploration company focused on gold assets in Guinea, West Africa, with the largest shareholders including Montage Gold (TSX: MAU), Lundin Family, and Anglogold Ashanti PLC (NYSE: AU). Martin has significant experience in Africa, including early-stage exploration programs that led to the discovery of the Sabodala Gold Mine in Senegal. He also served as Exploration Manager in the Democratic Republic of Congo, overseeing a very large kimberlite and base metal exploration programs, covering vast tenement holdings on the Kasai Carton. Earlier in his career, Mr. Pawlitschek held senior roles with BHP Billiton, focused on gold, copper, and diamond exploration across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. He has also worked extensively in Australia's Yilgarn and Victorian gold belts in both exploration and underground mine geology roles. From 2014 to 2022, Mr. Pawlitschek served as Senior Vice President, Geology at Appian Capital Advisory LLP, a London-based mining private equity firm with over US$2 billion in assets under management at the time. In this role, he led geological due diligence, technical assessments, and exploration oversight on investments in gold, base metals, and critical minerals globally, including several projects with successful exits. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours, First Class) in Applied Geology from the University of Technology Sydney and a Master's in Petroleum Engineering from the University of New South Wales. Mr. Pawlitschek is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG). Colin Porter Colin Porter will be stepping down as a Director of the Company but will continue in his role as Vice President, Exploration. He will lead all of Avanti's exploration programs, including further work on the Misisi Project. "The Board thanks Colin for his valuable contributions as a Director and looks forward to supporting him in his ongoing role as we continue to advance the Misisi Project," said Sir Sam Jonah. About Avanti Gold Corp. Avanti Gold Corp. is a gold exploration company focused on advancing its portfolio of high-potential projects in Africa. The Company's flagship asset, the Misisi Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, hosts the Akyanga gold deposit, which contains an Inferred Mineral Resource of 44.3 million tonnes at an average grade of 2.37 g/t gold, totaling 3.1 million ounces of gold. The Misisi Project covers three contiguous 30-year mining leases totaling 133 km along the Kibara Gold Belt, a 55-kilometre-long gold-bearing trend in a prolific metallogenic province. On behalf of the Board of Directors AVANTI GOLD CORP. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) 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. This press release contains forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, opinions and estimates of the date such statements are made based on information available to them at that time. Forward-looking information may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the appointment of directors. Generally, forward looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; the actual results of current exploration activities; other risks of the mining industry and the risks described in the annual financial form of the Company. Although 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 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. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company notes that mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Burlington, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Silver Bullet Mines Corp. (TSXV: SBMI) (OTCQB: SBMCF) ('SBMI' or 'the Company') is pleased to announce the opportunistic arms' length acquisition of the past producing high grade gold mine known as the King Tut Mine in Arizona ("King Tut"). The Company acquired King Tut for very low cash terms with no shares to be issued to the vendor, and no royalty of any kind was granted. No finders fees were paid. The Company had a distinct advantage over any other potential purchaser as it has direct access to on-the-ground knowledge and experience at King Tut. Ron Murphy (the Company's VP Mining) and his brother Dan Murphy, the mill manager for the Company at its mill in Globe, Arizona, mined King Tut as part of a team during the 1980's. They say and the Company believes they extracted and processed mineralized material at King Tut, and sold the resulting gold. SBMI has not been able to find any documentation with respect to production at King Tut, which is part of the reason for the low acquisition cost. King Tut comprises approximately 80 acres and is located on BLM land less than 50 miles from the Company's fully functional mill site in Globe, Arizona. The Company is currently evaluating the potential to increase the land position. King Tut provides the following: Immediate production potential of high grade gold Excellent infrastructure Significant exploration potential When last in production, according to Dan Murphy and Ron Murphy, ongoing grades averaged 0.5 oz/ton gold with assay results as high as 3 oz/ton gold, making the King Tut one of the highest grade gold properties in the area. The Company relies on these verbal reports to support its thesis to acquire King Tut and to support its thesis for future exploration and mining. The Company cannot show that a Qualified Person (as that term is used in NI43-101) supervised the collection or processing of the material at that time. Ron and Dan Murphy have advised they visually inspected the King Tut vein, and they report it is very high grade and 2 to 3 feet wide containing free gold. The adit currently extends less than 100 feet and might need safety work. Currently there is a stockpile of approximately 400 tons of waste material at King Tut. As part of its due diligence review of King Tut, the Company transported roughly 50 tons of that material to its mill for processing. Assay results from that material averaged 0.3 oz/ton gold and ran as high as 1.8 oz/ton gold. Panned material from King Tut waste rock Recovery in this sample of material was 90% and a concentrate grade of 38 oz/ton gold was achieved. SBMI feels this is an incredible opportunity to complement the Super Champ Mine material and increase potential revenue generation at a very low cost. Management believes the Company's risk is minimal on this transaction. The Company has all the necessary equipment and infrastructure to commence the processing of the King Tut material immediately without affecting other production operations. The Company believes it will not be difficult to find a buyer of the end product, whether as a concentrate or as dore bars. The initial plan is to mine and ship 50 tons per day from King Tut to the mill for processing. The King Tut material will be kept separate from Super Champ material. John Carter, SBMI CEO, states, "This once again demonstrates the effectiveness of our business model and the importance of having an incredible team that can identify, evaluate, perform due diligence, and transact quickly and efficiently. This is an opportunistic low risk transaction with what we see as a very high upside." The Company believes these types of acquisitions, along with its already owned properties, will provide a secure and low risk supply of precious metals and exploration opportunities. SBMI continues to mine from the lower adit at the Super Champ in anticipation of processing material in the very near future. The Company is also completing its evaluation of the surface work at the Washington Mine in Idaho where mining is expected to continue in August. Finally, the Company advises a total of 1,410,407 shares were issued at $0.15 for the payment of interest and extension fees related to the promissory note, representing a total of $211,561, effective June 20, 2025. QAQC Readers are cautioned samples are random by nature and may not be representative of the remainder of the King Tut vein. All samples above were analyzed by SBMI at its facility near Globe, Arizona. They were processed through the Lab Jaw Crusher, Lab Hammer Mill and Splitter Box into an aliquot. Most of the pulverized aliquot was mixed with a flux and flour combination and melted in a crucible at 1,850 degree Fahrenheit, with the remainder being logged and archived. Upon cooling, the poured melt was in the form of a metal button and slag, following which a bone ash cupel was utilized to eliminate the lead in the button to form a bead. The bead was then weighed, following which a solution of 6 to 1 distilled water to nitric acid was utilized to dissolve the gold in the bead at approximately 175 degrees Fahrenheit. A much more detailed description of the process and a picture of the assay lab can be found at https://silverbulletmines.com/qa-qc-assay-lab/. Mr. Robert G. Komarechka, P.Geo., an independent consultant, has reviewed and verified SBMI's work referred to herein, and is the Qualified Person for this release. Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain statements that may constitute forward-looking statements as they relate to SBMI and its subsidiaries. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts but represent management's current expectation of future events, and can be identified by words such as "believe", "expects", "will", "intends", "plans", "projects", "anticipates", "estimates", "continues" and similar expressions. Although management believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be correct. By their nature, forward-looking statements include assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual future results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. If and when forward-looking statements are set out in this new release, SBMI will also set out the material risk factors or assumptions used to develop the forward-looking statements. Except as expressly required by applicable securities laws, SBMI assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. The future outcomes that relate to forward-looking statements may be influenced by many factors, including but not limited to: the impact of SARS CoV-2 or any other global virus; reliance on key personnel; the thoroughness of its QA/QA procedures; the continuity of the global supply chain for materials for SBMI to use in the production and processing of mineralized material; the results of exploration and development activities; the results of mining and mill operations; shareholder and regulatory approvals; activities and attitudes of communities local to the location of the SBMI's properties; risks of future legal proceedings; income tax matters; fires, floods and other natural phenomena; the rate of inflation; counterparty risk with respect to the Buyer; availability and terms of financing; distribution of securities; commodities pricing; currency movements, especially as between the USD and CDN; effect of market interest rates on price of securities; and, potential dilution. SARS CoV-2 and other potential global pathogens create risks that at this time are immeasurable and impossible to define. Mineralized Zone Extended to Surface Now Reaches Over 200 M Vertically, Drill Program Increased to 25,000 M Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 23, 2025) - Onyx Gold Corp. (TSXV: ONYX) (OTCQX: ONXGF) ("Onyx" or the "Company") is pleased to announce drill results for five (5) additional drill holes from the Company's drill program (the "Program') at the Argus North Zone ("Argus North"), a newly identified gold zone located on its 100% owned Munro-Croesus Project ("Munro-Croesus" or the "Project"), 75 km east of Timmins, Ontario. The results reported today are from five step-out drill holes completed on a cross-section located 50 metres ("m") east of the Argus North discovery-hole section. This follows the June 2025 release of four drill holes from the discovery section, which included a highlight intercept of 91.0 metres grading 1.8 grams per tonne "g/t" gold ("Au"), with a higher-grade interval of 32.0 metres of 4.0 g/t Au in hole MC25-168 (see Company news release dated June 26, 2025). Highlights 52.2 m grading 2.2 g/t Au including 5.2 m of 5.1 g/t Au, and a second deeper intersection of 61.3 m of 1.5 g/t Au including 6.6 m grading 4.2 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-178 for a total cumulative width of 113.5 m of mineralization. 66.8 m grading 1.4 g/t Au including 4.0 m of 6.6 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-179, a 50 m up-dip step-out from drill hole MC25-178. 50.4 m grading 1.9 g/t Au starting at 6.1 m downhole (approximately 4 m vertically from surface), including 4.0 m of 5.9 g/t Au, in drill hole MC25-180, a 50 m up-dip step-out from drill hole MC25-179 Results to date demonstrate excellent continuity of wide intervals of strong gold mineralization now defined over 200 m vertically and extending right to surface The Company has completed 26 drill holes (assays announced for nine holes to date), totaling approximately 9,000 m of the 10,000 m phase 1 program. Current drill program expanded from 10,000 m to 25,000 m. "These latest results from Argus North continue to highlight strong gold grades over broad widths and confirm that the zone remains open for expansion," said Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO. "We are particularly encouraged by the mineralization intersected essentially at surface as this enables mechanical stripping to expose and sample the zone in outcrop: another useful exploration tool. We are mobilizing an excavator to site now and are look forward to the additional insights we can gather from surface work." "With results from just nine drill holes reported to date at Argus North, we're already defining a zone with notable grade and continuity that remains open along strike and down-plunge. Based on these results, we've expanded the drill program to further test this emerging zone and to explore additional high-priority targets across the broader Munro-Croesus project through the second half of the year." Discussion of 2025 Argus North Results The Argus North Zone is located on the western half of the Munro-Croesus project, 150 m north of the regional Pipestone Fault, a major structural corridor known to host significant gold deposits. Hole MC24-163, the discovery drill hole at Argus North reported earlier this year, returned 69.6 m grading 3.4 g/t Au, including 34.5 m grading 5.4 g/t Au, including 9.5 m grading 13.9 g/t Au (see Company news release dated April 10, 2025). Argus North is situated 100 m north of the east-west trending main Argus Zone, which is a separate 750 m x 200 m near-surface bulk tonnage target (e.g. 1.0 g/t Au over 63.3 m and 0.5 g/t Au over 136 m). Mineralization at Argus North is hosted within a strongly brecciated structural zone with 3-10% fine-grained disseminated pyrite and distinct pyritic stringers that extend into the host mafic variolitic basalts. Halos of strong albitization, strong silicification, and locally moderate sericitization are associated with the mineralized zones, often intruded by 1 to 7 m thick quartz feldspar porphyritic intrusions. Drilling to date indicates an east-southeast strike and a steep southerly dip to the Argus North structural zone, which may represent a secondary splay off the regional scale Pipestone Fault. Gold mineralization at Argus North has been delineated between surface and 200 m vertical depth, 50 m in an east-west direction, and remains open along strike and down-plunge. The five drill holes reported in this news release are all located on the same north-south cross-section, 50 m east of previously reported drill holes MC24-163/168/171 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2) with approximate 50 m step-outs up-dip and down-dip. The drilling to date has continued to return promising results with holes MC25-178, MC25-179 and MC23-180 all intersecting 50-to-67-meter widths of consistent gold mineralization as reported below and in Table 1: 52.2 m grading 2.2 g/t Au , in hole MC25-178 (50 m east of drill hole MC25-168), including 32.2 m grading 3.0 g/t Au, including 5.2 m grading 5.1 g/t Au , AND 61.3 m grading 1.5 g/t Au, in hole MC250178, including 31.6 m grading 2.0 g/t Au, including 6.6 m grading 4.2 g/t Au 66.8 m grading 1.4 g/t Au, in hole MC25-179 (50 m up-dip from MC25-178), including 22.8 m grading 3.3 g/t Au, including 4.0 m grading 6.6 g/t Au 50.4 m grading 1.9 g/t Au starting at 6.1 m downhole , in hole MC25-180 (50 m up-dip from MC25-179), including 24.5 m grading 3.4 g/t Au, including 4.0 m grading 5.9 g/t Au 36.3 m grading 0.4 g/t Au , in hole MC25-173 (60 m down-dip from MC25-178), including 1.9 m grading 3.7 g/t Au 1.1 m grading 12.0 g/t Au, in hole MC25-175 (50 m down-dip from MC25-173), with other individual zones returning 1.1 to 2.5 m widths grading 1.1 to 3.5 g/t Au. Next Steps The Company has completed 26 drill holes totalling ~9,000 m to date as part of its fully funded Phase 1 drill program at the Argus Zone. Ongoing plans include step-out drilling along strike on 50 m to 100 m spaced cross-sections designed to extend the limits of the known gold mineralization. The Company's Board of Directors has approved a 150% increase in the size of the Program from 10,000 to 25,000 m based on the strong results to date at Argus North. Additional drilling will continue to systematically step out east and west along the key prospective variolitic basalt flows immediately north of the Pipestone Fault and to target other high-priority targets over the large 109 km2 Project area. In addition, the Company plans to excavate the near-surface mineralization intersected in the top of hole MC25-180 using mechanical stripping to complete detailed mapping and sampling of outcrop. The Company also plans to complete ground-based direct-coupled induced polarization ("DCIP") geophysical surveying to infill the 200 m spaced gridlines completed in winter of 2021-2022 over Argus Main and Argus North. The Munro-Croesus Project The Munro-Croesus Project is located along Highway 101 in the heart of the Abitibi greenstone belt, Canada's premier gold mining jurisdiction (Figure 3). This large, 100% owned land package includes the past-producing Croesus Gold Mine, which yielded some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario. Extensive land consolidation from 2020-2025 has unified the patchwork of patented and unpatented mining claims surrounding the Croesus Gold Mine into one largely coherent package and enhanced the project's exploration potential. The Project covers 109 km2 of highly prospective geology within the influence of major gold-bearing structural breaks. Bulk-tonnage gold deposits located in the immediate region include the Fenn-Gib gold project being developed by Mayfair Gold Corp. that contains an Indicated Resource of 4.31 Moz at 0.74 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 141 koz at 0.49 g/t Au, and the Tower Gold Project being developed by STLLR Gold Inc. that contains an open pit Indicated Resource of 4.46 Moz at 0.92 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 8.29 Moz at 1.09 g/t Au1. Figure 1 - Cross-Section Highlighting Drill Holes Reported in this Release - Looking East Figure 2 - Plan Map Highlighting Argus North Zone Drill Holes Reported in this Release Figure 3 - Location of the Munro-Croesus Gold Project, Ontario Table 1 - Significant Assay Results from 2025 Drilling Completed at the Argus North Zone Target From To Length Au Drill Hole (m) (m) (m) (g/t) Argus North MC25-173 26.8 39.0 12.2 0.5 Including 26.8 27.4 0.6 4.3 And Including 37.0 38.0 1.0 1.8 And 219.4 240.5 21.1 0.5 Including 219.4 230.1 10.7 0.8 Including 225.0 230.1 5.1 1.1 And 259.9 296.2 36.3 0.4 Including 259.9 261.8 1.9 3.7 And Including 295.2 296.2 1.0 3.5 And 324.2 325.9 1.7 1.2 MC25-175 6.0 7.5 1.5 1.8 And 34.0 35.5 1.5 1.9 And 57.0 59.5 2.5 1.1 Including 58.5 59.5 1.0 1.6 And 169.3 170.4 1.1 1.1 And 247.0 248.1 1.1 12.0 And 289.0 291.0 2.0 1.6 Including 289.0 290.0 1.0 2.2 And 309.5 311.0 1.5 3.5 MC25-178 71.9 124.1 52.2 2.2 Including 91.0 123.2 32.2 3.0 Including 91.0 104.0 13.0 3.8 And including 118.0 123.2 5.2 5.1 And 147.0 208.3 61.3 1.5 Including 151.0 182.6 31.6 2.0 Including 162.0 168.6 6.6 4.2 And including 180.0 182.6 2.6 4.7 And Including 193.9 207.2 13.3 1.9 Including 193.9 199.0 5.1 2.4 MC25-179 13.8 73.0 59.2 0.3 Including 13.8 48.0 34.2 0.4 Including 15.8 18.8 3.0 1.4 And Including 58.0 61.0 3.0 1.4 And 101.0 167.8 66.8 1.4 Including 115.7 138.5 22.8 3.3 Including 115.7 125.7 10.0 4.4 Including 118.7 122.7 4.0 6.6 And Including 133.5 138.5 5.0 3.8 MC25-180 6.1 56.5 50.4 1.9 Including 32.0 56.5 24.5 3.4 Including 32.0 35.0 3.0 9.1 And Including 43.0 46.0 3.0 5.1 And Including 52.5 56.5 4.0 5.9 *Intersections are reported as drilled width; true width is estimated to be 70-90% of drilled width. About Onyx Gold Onyx Gold is an exploration company focused on well-established Canadian mining jurisdictions, with assets in Timmins, Ontario, and Yukon Territory. The Company's extensive portfolio of quality gold projects in the greater Timmins gold camp includes the Munro-Croesus Gold property, renowned for its high-grade mineralization, plus two additional earlier-stage large exploration properties, Golden Mile and Timmins South. The Golden Mile 140 km2 property is located 9 km northeast of Newmont's multi-million-ounce Hoyle Pond deposit in Timmins. The Timmins South 187 km2 property is located to the south and southeast of Timmins and surrounds the Shaw dome structure. Onyx Gold also controls four properties in the Selwyn Basin area of Yukon Territory, which is currently gaining significance due to recent discoveries in the area. Onyx Gold's experienced board and senior management team are committed to creating shareholder value through the discovery process, careful allocation of capital, and environmentally/socially responsible mineral exploration. On Behalf of Onyx Gold Corp. "Brock Colterjohn" President & CEO For further information, please visit the Onyx Gold Corp. website at www.onyxgold.com or contact: Additional Notes: Starting azimuth, dip and final length (Azimuth/-Dip/Length) for the five drill holes reported today are noted as follows: MC25-173 (000/45/414), MC25-175 (000/52/399), MC25-178 (000/45/372), MC25-179 (000/45/312) and MC25-180 (000/45/228). Samples of drill core were cut by a diamond blade rock saw, with half of the cut core placed in individual sealed polyurethane bags and half placed back in the original core box for permanent storage. Sample lengths typically vary from a minimum 0.2-meter interval to a maximum 1.5-meter interval, with an average 0.5 to 1.0-meter sample length. Drill core samples were delivered by truck in sealed woven plastic bags to ALS Geochemistry laboratory facility in Timmins, Ontario for sample preparation with final analysis at ALS Geochemistry Analytical Lab facility in North Vancouver, BC. ALS Geochemistry operate meeting all requirements of International Standards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015. Gold is determined by fire-assay fusion of a 50-gram sub-sample with atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Samples that return values >10 ppm gold from fire assay and AAS are determined by using fire assay and a gravimetric finish. Various metals including silver, gold, copper, lead and zinc are analyzed by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectroscopy, following multi-acid digestion. The elements copper, lead and zinc are determined by ore grade assay for samples that return values >10,000 ppm by ICP analysis. Silver is determined by ore-grade assay for samples that return >100 ppm. All ALS Geochemistry sites operate under a single Global Geochemistry Quality Manual that complies with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. ALS Geochemistry follows the quality management and operational guidelines set out in the international standards ISO/IEC 17025 - "General Requirement for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories" and ISO 9001 - "Quality Management Systems". The Company maintains a robust QA/QC program that includes the collection and analysis of duplicate samples and the insertion of blanks and standards (certified reference material). Ian Cunningham-Dunlop, P.Eng., Executive Vice President for Onyx Gold Corp. and a qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Fenn-Gib Gold Project and Tower Gold Project mineral resources compiled from public sources and are provided for general information purposes. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in adjacent properties and they are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploration thereof. Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the potential significance of results from the new Argus North discovery are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project param as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although 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 outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. Human Rights Watch on Wednesday condemned Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels for deadly attacks that sank two commercial vessels this month, calling them violations of the laws of war. The Huthis struck the Magic Seas and Eternity C cargo ships in the Red Sea, part of a campaign against maritime traffic they accuse of having links to Israel, launched over the Gaza war. Fifteen people -- including four confirmed dead -- remain missing after the July 7 attack on the Eternity C. The Yemeni rebels claimed to have "rescued" an unspecified number of crew, whose whereabouts are still unknown. The attacks were "violations of the laws of war amounting to war crimes", Human Rights Watch said in a statement, adding it found "no evidence that the ships were military targets". "They deliberately attacked commercial vessels that could clearly be identified as civilian," the New York-based group said, adding that "detaining rescued crew members is also prohibited". Rebel leader Abdel Malek al-Huthi justified the attacks, saying both ships belonged to companies serving Israeli ports. But HRW said the ships had no connection to Israel and were not heading there. The Magic Seas was en route to Turkey from China carrying fertiliser and steel billets when it was attacked on July 6. The Eternity C was heading to Saudi Arabia from Somalia after delivering humanitarian aid for the United Nations World Food Programme. "The Huthis have sought to justify unlawful attacks by pointing to Israeli violations against Palestinians," said Niku Jafarnia, HRW's Yemen and Bahrain researcher. "The Huthis should end all attacks on ships not taking part in the conflict and immediately release the crew members in their custody," she added. Since November 2023, the rebels have carried out more than 100 attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, according to the Joint Maritime Information Centre, run by a Western naval coalition. HRW said it had previously found those actions to be war crimes. It also warned of environmental risks, citing findings by Wim Zwijnenburg of Dutch peace organisation PAX. Zwijnenburg said satellite imagery showed large oil slicks trailing from the sites where both vessels sank, threatening wildlife in a protected nature reserve off Eritrea's coast. Oil was also reportedly washing ashore near a fishing community, he was quoted as saying. Amnesty International said on Thursday that Iran fired widely-banned cluster munitions at Israel during a war between the two countries in June, in attacks that endangered civilians. "Last month, the Iranian forces fired ballistic missiles whose warheads contained submunitions into populated residential areas of Israel," the human rights group said, citing new research. The organisation said it analysed photos and videos showing cluster munitions that, according to media reports, struck inside the Gush Dan metropolitan area around Tel Aviv on June 19. On top of that, the southern city of Beersheba on June 20 and Rishon LeZion to the south of Tel Aviv on June 22 were also "struck with ordnance that left multiple impact craters consistent with the submunitions seen in Gush Dan", Amnesty said. "By using such weapons in or near populated residential areas, Iranian forces endangered civilian lives," said Erika Guevara Rosas, senior director at Amnesty International. "Iranian forces' deliberate use of such inherently indiscriminate weapons is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law." Cluster munitions explode in mid-air and scatter bomblets. Some of them do not explode on impact and can cause casualties over time, particularly among children. Neither Iran nor Israel is among more than a hundred countries that are party to the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions, which prohibits the use, transfer, production and storage of cluster bombs. Amnesty said international law "prohibits the use of inherently indiscriminate weapons, and launching indiscriminate attacks that kill or injure civilians constitutes a war crime". Israel and Iran fought a 12-day war sparked by an Israeli bombing campaign on June 13. Israel said the strikes were aimed at preventing the Islamic republic from developing a nuclear weapon, an ambition Tehran has consistently denied. Kennesaw State student researcher streamlining manufacturing automation through digital twin technology KENNESAW, Ga. | Jul 23, 2025 Carter Corbin Aiming to create systems where machines and their virtual counterparts communicate in real time, Carter Corbin and a team of Kennesaw State University students are advancing smart manufacturing by combining robotics and digital twin technology. Studying mechatronics engineering in Kennesaw States Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, Corbin is part of a growing number of undergraduates contributing to applied research that mirrors the challenges and solutions shaping todays tech-driven industries. He is currently investigating how real-time system feedback can make automation smarter and more adaptable. In simple terms, a digital twin is a virtual version of a physical machine, Corbin said. What makes our system unique is that both the digital and physical models update in real time. If I move something in the virtual environment, the real machine reacts, and vice versa. The teams project simulates a small-scale conveyor process using a puck and robotic arm. The digital and physical systems mirror each other, allowing researchers to test operations and diagnose problems without disrupting production. It is more than just a simulation, Corbin said. We can collect live data and prevent costly mistakes before they happen. Corbin collaborates daily with undergraduate peers, graduate students, and a Ph.D. candidate. His contributions earned him co-authorship on a paper being submitted to the ASME IMECE 2025 conference, focusing on digital twins in manufacturing system integration. Ph.D. candidate Gershom Richards, who co-leads the research team, said the work has implications far beyond the lab. With more than two years of experience developing digital twin systems, he sees the technology as a game-changer for manufacturing. Digital twins are poised to be the next evolution of simulation technologies, he said. They centralize complex tasks while enabling integrated multiphysics simulation and system visualization, providing more accurate data and improving the decision-making process for both operators and machines. Originally from McDonough, Georgia, Corbin discovered KSUs mechatronics engineering program after transferring from Gordon State College. Encouraged by a friend and drawn to a field that blends mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, he quickly found his path. Ive always wanted to be an engineer, Corbin said. But I also wanted to study something that stood out from the crowd. Mechatronics felt more dynamic than a traditional engineering degree. His interest deepened after he took a fluid power course with associate professor David Guerra-Zubiaga, which introduced him to hands-on automation projects. He began a directed study focused on building a digital manufacturing twin. Carter is an outstanding student who is consistently ranked at the top of his class, Guerra-Zubiaga said. He has demonstrated strong research leadership in collaboration with both graduate and Ph.D. students. One of the most challenging parts of his current research project has been integrating various hardware components with Siemens programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which serve as the backbone of industrial automation systems. Weve faced compatibility issues, he said. It took trial and error to get it all working, but it was a valuable learning experience. After graduating in Spring 2025, Corbin will begin KSUs Master of Science in Intelligent Robotic Systems program in the fall as a graduate research assistant and hopes to eventually pursue a Ph.D. in robotics. Corbin also plans to explore Robot Operating System (ROS) 2 with assistant professor Muhammad Tanveer. ROS 2 is used for robotic simulation and real-time communication in mobile systems. While Corbins research team still seeks an industry partner, the lab uses real-world tools and systems supported by Siemens, including PLC trainers, safety interlocks, and sensor modules. This research is preparing us for the problems well face in the field, Corbin said. Were not just learning the theory. Were applying it. Story by Raynard Churchwell Photo provided Related Stories A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - The Ministry of Interior has launched investigations into what could be another case of religious radicalisation, following a disturbing discovery at a secluded homestead in the Binzaro area of Kilifi County. In a statement issued on Tuesday morning, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that the operation was triggered by a tip-off from vigilant members of the public. Security and intelligence officers raided a five-acre property suspected of harbouring radical religious activity. During the operation, four individuals were rescued, including a 50-year-old man reported missing in Siaya in April, his 40-year-old wife, and two other females aged 40 and 19. Preliminary assessments indicate the individuals may have been held under the influence of radical teachings, said Murkomen. In a chilling twist, officers recovered two human skulls and a freshly deceased body of an unidentified adult male in a nearby thicket. The remains were transported to the Malindi Sub-County Hospital Mortuary for preservation and forensic analysis. The main suspect is in custody, along with three individuals identified as the compound's managers. Three others were also arrested in connection with the questionable sale of the property, as investigations continue into the legality of the transaction. The DCI in Malindi has secured protective custody for the rescued victims and applied for warrants to conduct a comprehensive forensic sweep of the scene. Murkomen praised local residents for their timely alert and reaffirmed the Government's commitment to confronting radical indoctrination that endangers lives under the guise of faith. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - In a gripping cross-border operation, FBI agents have arrested a 20-year-old murder suspect in Kenya and extradited him to the United States to face charges over the fatal shooting of 67-year-old Yuam Ming outside a Costco store in Tukwila, Washington. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Seattle, the suspect identified as Salman Haji, is now being held at King County Jail, with bail set at a staggering Ksh647.5 million (USD 5 million). He and an alleged accomplice, also aged 20, are facing multiple charges, including murder, robbery, and attempted robbery. The incident occurred on January 26th, 2024, as Ming and her sister were loading groceries into their car. The suspect reportedly attempted to snatch the sisters purse and, in the struggle, shot and killed Ming. The accomplice is alleged to have been waiting in a stolen Porsche SUV used as the getaway vehicle. Just five days after the crime, the main suspect fled the U.S, prompting a months-long international manhunt. U.S. authorities worked closely with Kenyan law enforcement and Interpol to trace and apprehend him. Court filings suggest the suspect fled shortly after being named on social media as a person of interest. The case against him includes surveillance footage, dashcam video, witness statements, and forensic evidence. He now awaits trial in Washington State, where prosecutors are expected to seek a stiff sentence if convicted. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan national who had been facing execution in Saudi Arabia, has been released and is expected to return home soon. This was confirmed on Tuesday by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Korir Singoei. Munyakho, who converted to Islam and now goes by the name Abdulkareem, was released from Shimeisi Prison in the Governorate of Mecca at 10 a.m. local time, following the satisfaction of a judicial decree. Our Mission in Riyadh has confirmed that Steve performed his Umrah (minor pilgrimage) upon release, PS Singoei announced in a post on X. Munyakho had been working as a warehouse manager when he was involved in a fatal altercation with a Yemeni colleague in April 2011. He was sentenced to death by beheading and was scheduled for execution in May 2023. His release followed months of high-level negotiations involving Kenyan diplomats and religious leaders. In March, UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar revealed that a $1 million (approximately Ksh.129 million) settlement was reached, with the sum paid by the Muslim World League - a Saudi-based international Islamic NGO. Omar disclosed that President William Ruto personally engaged Dr. Muhammad Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the League, during his visit to Kenya. Dr. Al-Issa also attended a state Iftar dinner at State House in Nairobi, where discussions reportedly gained momentum. Munyakhos case gripped national attention after his mother, veteran journalist Dorothy Kweyu, pleaded with President Ruto to intervene and save her son from execution. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Nelson Havi, has accused Chief Justice Martha Koome of paving the way for the misuse of terrorism charges against Kenyans arrested during recent anti-Government protests. Havis remarks come in the wake of mass arrests tied to the June demonstrations, where hundreds of protesters were charged with terrorism-related offences and given steep bail terms. She labeled an arson in Kikuyu as terrorism. On what yardstick did she make that determination? Taking the cue, Renson Ingonga, like Bernard Chunga before him, began the crackdown. We are back to the 1980s, Havi posted on X. His comments refer to CJ Koomes June 26th visit to the Kikuyu Law Courts, which were set ablaze during protests a day earlier. At the time, Koome condemned the arson as an act of terrorism, noting, The extent of this damage is not just an act of criminal elements, but an act of terrorism. She added that no judicial records were lost, thanks to the Judiciarys digitized Case Tracking System. Havis concerns echo warnings from civil rights groups, including the Katiba Institute, which said: We are deeply concerned by the continued misuse of the Prevention of Terrorism Act to manage public order... This practice undermines Kenyas criminal justice system and jeopardizes critical international partnerships. The debate highlights growing concerns over the criminalization of protest and freedom of expression in Kenya. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - Former Cabinet Secretary and President Rutos ex-Advisor, Moses Kuria, has publicly condemned remarks made by Kikuyu MP and National Assembly Majority Leader, Kimani Ichungwah, concerning the marriage of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. In a statement issued via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Kuria urged political leaders to maintain a clear boundary between public discourse and private family life. During a rally on Sunday, July 20th, Ichungwah questioned Gachaguas leadership by mocking his relationship with his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi. "Huyu amekaliwa na bibi... ataambia nini wanaume wenzake?" Ichungwah allegedly said, implying Gachagua was "controlled" by his wife. Ichungwah went on to claim that Pastor Dorcas is allegedly having a secret affair with a Bishop. While he didnt name the man of the cloth, he hinted that the affair was well-known among insiders. Bibi yake ata ako na bwana mwingine - Bishop, Ichungwah said. Kuria responded sharply: Hon Kimani Ichungwah is grossly out of order for dragging Pastor Dorcas Rigathi into the mud only because of her husband. He emphasized the need for a version of the Geneva Convention in Kenyas political landscape, one that protects families from becoming collateral in political battles. He added, Since the next phase of this war will be vicious and bloody, let us... KEEP FAMILIES OUT OF POLITICS! Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - Naivasha Member of Parliament, Jayne Kihara, has made explosive claims alleging that President William Ruto routinely offers cash rewards to leaders who attend meetings at State House. Speaking during an interview on K24 on Tuesday, July 22nd, Kihara claimed that every leader who attends a meeting with the President receives Ksh 100, 000 as a fuel allowance. She further alleged that consistent attendance guarantees continued payouts. "President William Ruto believes in bribing people. Ive experienced it personally. When we go to State House, we get Ksh100,000 for petrol as appreciation money. If you want it to continue, you just keep going, Kihara stated. She went on to describe the Head of State as someone who "believes in money" and alleged that anyone who gets close to him is likely to be bribed. While President Ruto frequently hosts delegations at State House, often described as developmental and inclusive engagements, the vocal MP, an ally of former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua, dismissed that narrative. She accused regular attendees of being driven by perks rather than national interest. Kihara, who was among leaders arrested during the recent Saba Saba protests, reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for change. She urged the youth to register in large numbers and turn up in the 2027 General Elections to vote out the current leadership. No amount of intimidation will stop us from demanding better leadership, she said. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - President William Ruto has led a heartfelt show of support following the untimely passing of beloved comedian Zakaria Kariuki, widely known as KK Mwenyewe. The Head of State contributed Ksh1 million towards the funeral arrangements of the late comedian, who rose to fame for his uncanny impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Senior State House official, Dennis Itumbi, shared the update on his official X account, revealing that other leaders also stepped in. "President Ruto has contributed Ksh1 million. While I was sitting here, I asked how much was remaining in the budget, and I was told it's KSh1.2 million. Now, with Ksh1.5 million, havent we already covered that? I have all that money with me, but Ive requested to go and give it to his mother, said Itumbi. Other contributions to KK Mwenyewes funeral included: Ksh200,000 from Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, Ksh200,000 from Kikuyu MP, Kimani Ichingwah, and Ksh100,000 from Lari MP, Mburu Kahangara. The tribute came during a candle lighting ceremony held on July 21st, where content creators gathered to honour KKs life and legacy. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - President William Rutos Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs, Professor Makau Mutua, has sparked national debate with his fresh proposal to overhaul Kenyas matatu industry, just days after the Presidents son, George Ruto, unveiled a highly customized matatu dubbed Mood. Taking to his X account, Mutua proposed the reintroduction of reliable, clean, and punctual public buses, similar to the now-defunct Kenya Bus Service (KBS), as a solution to restore sanity on city roads. Lets return road sanity to Kenyas major cities and towns by introducing reliable, clean, and timely buses (aka KBS), he posted. Mutua further recommended that the Government licenses only a limited number of matatus - all of the same model and colour. He also doubled down on his earlier call to ban boda bodas from urban areas. License LIMITED number of matatus same model, same colour (no strange camouflage or weird lights), and ban boda boda. No pain, no gain, he wrote. His proposals have been met with mixed reactions online. While some Kenyans support the push for order and safety, others view the suggestions as extreme - especially given the popularity of the flashy, graffiti-covered matatus among the youth. The legal scholars timing has raised eyebrows, coming less than a week after George Ruto launched Mood, a pimped-out matatu showcasing everything Mutua seems to oppose in the sector. Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - A cheeky video of two elderly Kikuyu women, popularly known as wamamaz, has taken social media by storm after they openly declared theyre on the hunt for a young, energetic man (aka Ben 10) to "entertain" them. In the now-viral clip, the playful pair express their disappointment in their former flame, Kevin, citing his unbearable pride. Maringo ya Kevin hatuwezani, one laments, before announcing: Audition! Audition! If youre a Ben 10 looking for a good time na hauna mambo mingi send us your pictures. The other chimes in with a straight face: And your sizes, so we know what you possess. While this is just a skit, many netizens believe it mirrors a growing trend. For years, wealthy older men (wababa) have been known to pursue younger women. Now, it seems wamamaz are flipping the script - unapologetically. Whether satire or subtle truth, one things clear, these wamamaz know what they want, and theyre not afraid to ask for it. Watch the video. Are you a young, lonely guy? These nuns are searching for someone like you pic.twitter.com/U5oPsgRsqp Mike Sonko (@MikeSonko) July 21, 2025 The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - A family is grappling with unimaginable grief following the tragic and mysterious death of their daughter, Paschalia Chep Nabwiree, who had been reported missing earlier this month. Paschalia, 21, was last seen on July 1st in Nairobis Central Business District (CBD), after which she vanished without a trace. Her disappearance sparked a frantic search by her loved ones, who took to social media with her photos and heartfelt appeal for her whereabouts. For nearly three weeks, hope remained that she would be found safe. But on the third week, the familys worst fears were confirmed when her lifeless body was discovered under mysterious circumstances. The police have since launched a full murder investigation and are appealing to the public for any leads that could help uncover what happened to Paschalia and bring the perpetrators to justice. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, July 22, 2025 - A group of young Kenyans took to the streets of Nairobi in a bold display of discontent, carrying a framed portrait of former President Uhuru Kenyatta while chanting Uhuru tunakumiss!, a nostalgic call highlighting growing frustration with the current leadership. In a video shared online, the group is seen waving the portrait and criticizing President William Rutos administration over what they described as poor leadership and failed promises. Their chants were laced with regret, openly admitting they wished they had listened to Uhurus warning ahead of the 2022 General Elections. One man was heard saying, We didnt listen, but now we see. Ruto must go in 2027. The video quickly gained traction on social media, sparking debate about the rising disillusionment among Kenyas youth, particularly in the face of economic hardship, unemployment, and surging cost of living under the current regime. Kenyans cry on live camera saying they miss Uhuru Kenyatta. pic.twitter.com/Fz38ytgIU0 Captain Dominic Omondi (@CaptainDominicO) July 21, 2025 The Kenyan DAILY POST Gordon Deegan The judge in the Niall Gilligan assault case has asked the jury in the case to make a fresh start in their deliberations this morning. At Ennis Circuit Court on Wednesday, Judge Francis Comerford sent the jury out at 10.40am to resume their deliberations. In the case, Mr Gilligan (48) of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge denies the assault causing harm with a stick of a then 12-year-old boy at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5th 2023. On Tuesday, the jury deliberated for 2 hours and 47 minutes before they returned to the court just before 5pm, and the jury foreman asked Judge Comerford: What is the next step if we are not unanimous? In court this morning, Judge Comerford told the jury: I would ask you a fresh start and consider matters again and talk through the issues." Judge Comerford told the jury if they have a question or want to communicate any difficulties, they can come back into court. Judge Comerford said that he would call the jury back in the course of the morning to confirm where they are and consider whether to move on to the next stage or not. On Tuesday, Judge Comerford told the jury: "It is always preferable that you try to reach a unanimous verdict - that is the ideal and it is better than any alternative." The jury commenced their deliberations at 12.33pm on Tuesday, and before they commenced, Judge Comerford told them that they should make their decision in the case after a cold, direct, forensic determination of the facts. In his closing speech to the jury on Monday, counsel for Mr Gilligan, Patrick Whyms BL, said in no way is Mr Gilligan trying to suggest that he was entitled to punish the boy as was suggested and said that the injuries sustained by the boy are clearly regrettable. Mr Whyms said that on the evening at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Mr Gilligan didnt know that he was dealing with a child and did not create this situation. Mr Whyms (instructed by solicitor, Daragh Hassett) said that Mr Gilligan "was at the end of his tether" by the vandalism being done to a vacant property he was trying to sell. Putting forward the defence of reasonable force against the charge, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan was at the Jamaica Inn hostel on the night of October 5th in the dark and believed that he was under siege. He said: Believing himself under threat and needing to protect himself and his property, Niall Gilligan needs to make an instant decision, and so we are here." Mr Whyms said, And Mr Gilligan, a family man who has young children and no previous convictions, gives a clear story which hasnt changed and an entirely credible, fulsome account of what happened." Earlier in her closing speech on Monday, Ms Sarah Jane Comerford BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) told the jury: This is a story of a man who lost his cool. She said: Instead of picking up the boy after he slipped and bringing him out to his car and driving him home and telling his parents, he hit him and lost it and he was angry and frustrated. Ms Comerford said that the alleged assault in broad daylight is the action of a man who took out his anger and frustration on a child. There is no evidence that his injuries were caused by anything other than his interactions with Niall Gilligan. Ms Comerford said that Niall Gilligan lost control and punished the boy for the damage and inconvenience caused to his property on a morning when he had to clean up human faeces and urine from his property. Tom Tuite A 43-year-old man has been charged with attacking a Swiss tourist on a busy bus in south Dublin after he stood in the section reserved for buggies and wheelchairs. Richard O'Mahoney, of Rathgar Avenue, Dublin 6, is accused of assault causing harm on January 4th, 2023. He appeared at Dublin District Court, where Judge Treasa Kelly accepted jurisdiction after hearing an outline of the case facts. She remanded the accused on bail to appear again in September to enter a plea. The court heard the incident occurred on a Dublin Bus on Rathgar Road, Rathgar, Dublin 6, at around 6:30 pm. A Swiss national and his wife had been visiting their daughter in Dublin for Christmas. After spending the day in the city centre with his wife, daughter and her boyfriend, they boarded a bus to Churchtown. The bus was busy, all seats were taken, and the complainant stood in the area for buggies or wheelchairs. Along the journey, a man, allegedly the accused, boarded with a woman, and he was pushing a buggy with a small baby. It was claimed that he pushed the buggy into the tourist's legs three or four times while speaking to the Swiss national, who did not understand because he did not speak English. It was alleged that later Mr O'Mahoney and the woman with him, who was now pushing the buggy, went to get off the bus. However, the accused allegedly turned around, approached the man and began punching him until other passengers intervened. The incident was allegedly captured on CCTV. The Swiss man suffered a swollen eye, tinnitus in his left ear, and a fractured nose, the court heard. A MAN who did two drive offs from Kildare filling stations whilst in the throes of addiction at the time, was given a chance by the judge and fined just 200 with six months to pay after the court heard how he had done rehab and was starting a job in two weeks time. Appearing in Athy District Court recently was Stephen Cassin (43) with an address on Mellowes Road, Finglas, Dublin 11. Mr Cassin pleaded guilty to the a theft of 63 from Circle K Moorefield, Newbridge on 17 December 2023, and the theft of 60 worth of fuel from Conlons Garage on the Dublin Road in Athy just five days earlier. After hearing his 11 previous convictions were all for road traffic offences, his solicitor Brian Larkin began his mitigation. He explained how Mr Cassin was in the throes of addiction at the time but has successfully a course of rehab at Merchants Quay Ireland (MQI). What was he addicted to? Women? remarked Judge Desmond Zaidan. Well, he has five kids, replied Mr Larkin. It was coming up to Christmas, and he fell back into addiction, he added. I started at 12 years of age, said Cassin. Thats very sad, said the judge. My mam was an alcoholic, and I was put in a home, said Cassin. Raised by Tusla? asked the judge. He starts a job in two weeks time, and though he cant pay back the money today, if you were to give him some time? offered Mr Larkin. The judge agreed, and fined him 200, giving him six months to pay. Ive been good to you, but youve got to lead by example, said the judge. Thats exactly what Im trying to do, said Mr Cassin. You dont want history to repeat itself, go and talk to your kids, concluded the judge. Five Kilkenny hospitality employers have made the cut to be named amongst Irelands Best Workplaces in Hospitality in 2025. Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, Pembroke Kilkenny and Mount Juliet Estate are listed alongside the iNUA Hotel Collection (Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel) and PREM Group (Hoban Hotel Kilkenny). For Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, the honour comes as the hotel recently marked a milestone of over 1,000 years of combined staff service, recognising the loyalty and dedication of its long-serving team. READ NEXT: Fears over new Kilkenny City road scheme ahead of new school opening Mary ONeill, People & Culture Manager at Newpark Hotel, said people are the heart of everything we do. These awards are a reflection of the culture weve built - and most importantly, the people who make Newpark such a special place to work, she added. Irelands Best Workplaces in Hospitality, compiled by Great Place to Work Ireland, celebrates hotels dedicated to the innovative, customer focused, high performing, and forward-thinking cultures developed by hotels within Ireland's dynamic hospitality industry. SEE ALSO: 'Its just totally unacceptable' - Kilkenny cemetery back in the headlines Based on extensive employee feedback, with over 8,000 hospitality employees invited to participate in the survey over the past year, this recognition highlights the organisations paving the way for a more supportive and sustainable future for hospitality in Ireland. In an industry renowned for its demanding pace and intense customer focus, these organisations demonstrate how prioritising employee wellbeing directly enhances the guest experience. By championing staff development, equitable rewards, and a culture of trust and appreciation, they foster workplaces where employees take pride in delivering memorable service securing a powerful competitive advantage and driving long-term growth. DON'T MISS: 'I cant please everyone' - celebrity Kilkenny chef opens up The aim is to highlight employers who are committed to creating an outstanding work environment. Using the global standard Best Workplaces methodology as its basis, this recognition for these five Kilkenny employers will serve as a key differentiator to highlight these organisations as employers of choice in an increasingly competitive talent market. FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE Mount Carmel Supported Care Home celebrated a remarkable milestone last weekend, marking its 40th anniversary with the launch of a new book, Ill Never be Lonely Again, written by Frank McKenna. The book traces the origins and history of Mount Carmel which, for four decades, has provided sheltered accommodation for people from Callan, Kilmanagh, Cuffesgrange, Mullinahone and beyond, those no longer wishing or able to live entirely independently but not yet requiring full nursing care. From its inception, Mount Carmel has welcomed countless residents and staff, each contributing to its enduring spirit and many families remain deeply grateful for the compassionate care their loved ones received within its walls. This significant occasion paid heartfelt tribute to the visionaries who conceived the project in 1978, steering it from bold idea to cherished reality: Bishop Peter Birch, Canon John Kennedy, Paddy Clancy, Seamus Horgan, Martin OHalloran, Maisie Condon, Father Liam Cassin, and numerous others who invested their time and expertise. The legacy of Mount Carmel, and other similar homes, is woven into the fabric of Ossory Social Services, pioneered by the late Bishop Birch. The Sisters of Mercy, who shaped the ethos and daily running of the home, most notably Sister Loretto Crowley, Sister May Lynch and Sister Bernadette. SEE ALSO: Councillors oppose rezoning of Castlecomer land away from housing Saturdays celebrations began with the planting of a commemorative tree at Mount Carmel, donated by Callan Co-op, and the unveiling of a plaque from Molloys Sculptures, paying homage to the Sisters of Mercy and their steadfast service from 1978 to 2014. Matt Doran, acting as MC, invited Father Liam Cassin to officially launch the book and reflect on the formidable efforts which brought the home into being, especially in an era when Callan was undertaking several major fundraising endeavours. Sister Loretto gave a moving account of her experiences managing Mount Carmel from its very beginnings, sharing stories of the first residents and the community that grew around them. Frank McKenna then recounted his journey researching the book, which began as an article but quickly expanded as he unearthed stories and interviews with those instrumental in the homes history. The loss of wonderful servants in recent times of Mary Egan and Maisie Condon before the books launch was keenly felt and respectfully acknowledged. The event also marked the 30th anniversary of the Mount Carmel Bungalows, with a touching anecdote from one of the first bungalow residents who, after 27 years, moved to the main house and exclaimed: Ill never be lonely again. These words resonated deeply with Frank McKenna and inspired the title of the book. The celebration concluded with refreshments, music courtesy of Kilmanagh musicians, and a touch of dancing, complemented by the support of local businesses such as Keoghs Bakery and SuperValu. The book is now available in local outlets, offering the community an enduring record of Mount Carmels place in local history. TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS NZ First announced: New Zealand First has today introduced a members bill which would make it law that government buildings can only display the official flag of New Zealand. Government buildings are for all New Zealanders and should not be hijacked to force cultural, woke, or divisive political ideology down the throats of others says New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters. This legislation would ban symbols and flags of politically motivated ideology and division from being displayed on government buildings. New Zealand First believes in one country, one people, one flag says Mr Peters. The Display of Flags (Government Premises) Bill would restrict flags being displayed on Crown buildings, local authority properties, and state schools to the official flag of New Zealand. Only in specific circumstances could an officially recognised flag of another country or territory being hosted on official business be displayed. This bill would make it illegal for Government House to show the royal flag, when the King is in residence. It would also stop the vice-regal flag being shown. Schools would not be able to host the flags of other countries as part of their educational programme. No government building could display a sporting flag (such as the All Blacks Silver Fern) as part of an official victory parade. It would also prevent the New Zealand Red Ensign, the New Zealand White Ensign, the Royal New Zealand Air Force Ensign and the New Zealand Civil Air Ensign from being used. Local authorities would no longer be allowed to display their official city flags. The Olympics flag would also be banned. So really this is a very silly bill. Jeffery Durbin appears in court during his January trial at the Boone County Courthouse. A jury found him guilty of sexual assault and kidnapping, and an appeal for a new trial was denied Tuesday. An Air Tractor AT-402A crop duster plane snagged a power line and crashed in Boone County, Missouri, west of Centralia on Tuesday, July 22. The incident knocked out power for more than 1,000 customers. The pilot of the plane, a man from Huntsville, was seriously injured and flown to Universi Brand new Subaru cars sit in a storage lot on March 24, in Richmond, California. The US and Japan have reached a trade agreement, President Donald Trump announced on July 22. 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. Vivienne Clarke Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke has been defending plans to cut VAT for the hospitality sector. The tourism sector is a very important part of the economy. At this point in time, over 200,000 people are employed in it. It's a 9 billion sector. And it's so important to try and keep that sector sustainable, he told RTE radios Today show. We've seen over the last number of years a very significant number of independent small food outlets and coffee shops come under pressure, many restaurants closing their doors. But this is a jobs measure to sustain the employment in that sector, which is critically important to me as Minister for Tourism and critically to get that regional balance because many of these jobs are located in regional parts of Ireland and it's so important that we have that growth in those key sectors. Mr Burke said that the cut in VAT would be a stimulus measure. It is a viability measure, they are under significant pressure. We've had a lot of additionality from government, part of it over the last three years, in terms of regulatory requirements in the trajectory to a living wage and sick pay in so many areas that have put significant pressure on the sector and have reduced their margins. I've been in coffee shops and indeed restaurants where I've seen their margins diminish and some making a very significant loss that they weren't the prior year, considering in many cases their trade and turnover has sustained. So critically it's very difficult to ask everyone to pass it on but we need to ensure that we keep the jobs in the first place and that's the prism I look through when I have a sustainability piece like this. This is to protect all of those over 200,000 jobs. To try and grow the sector because there's a very exciting new tourism plan which we'll be bringing out in September and part of that will be an all-island food strategy and also giving Failte Ireland the power to develop the restaurant sector as well. The Minister said that the best value for money would be to sustain jobs. We've learned one thing in this economy and we've proven it. And we have been almost Teflon as a government on this. We've pushed 90,000 jobs into the economy over the last 12 months. And considering when we're at or about full employment, to put 90,00 extra households with additional income into them with more jobs is very significant. We have a huge amount of jobs, almost 600,000 put in since the pandemic. And that's been the premium of this government, because for any household, the route to give you a chance and opportunity to realise your ambition in life is a job. And the more good quality jobs we get into the economy as well, that's what I'm focused on with many of the different sectors we're working on, trying to ensure that we have the building blocks to sustain the high-level of high-quality jobs we have in our economy. CONSTRUCTION has officially commenced on a new advanced science building at South-East Technological Universitys (SETU) Carlow campus on Kilkenny Road as part of a major 380 million national education infrastructure initiative. The 6,100 square metre facility will feature new science and health science laboratories, clinics and a 40-metre indoor sprint track, designed to support an increase in science, technology and engineering students at the Carlow campus. The project is part of the Higher Education PPP Programme Bundle 2, which will deliver state-of-the-art educational facilities across five third-level campuses nationwide by mid-2028. The other campuses receiving new buildings are SETU Waterford, Technological University of the Shannon in Limerick and Atlantic Technological University campuses in Letterkenny and Galway. The initiative is being delivered through a public-private partnership between construction company BAM and investment partner Invesis, with BAM handling design and construction, while BAM FM provides long-term facilities management. Bank of Ireland has committed 94 million as part of a lending consortium financing the project, which was procured by the National Development Finance Agency on behalf of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. Minister James Lawless marked the milestone, saying the projects demonstrate the governments commitment to achieving regional balance and delivering lasting educational infrastructure. These state-of-the-art facilities will have a transformative impact on SETU and the region, minister Lawless said. SETU president professor Veronica Campbell described the Carlow project as representing a substantial investment in the university and the future of technological higher education in Ireland. Both projects align with local and regional planning goals, contributing to SETUs ambition for the south-east to become a UNESCO Learning region with a strong, innovation-driven economy, professor Campbell said. Keith Williams, director of capital projects at SETU, stated that the commencement of construction marks a significant milestone for the university and underscores its commitment to creating a sustainable future for SETU and the wider south-east region. The Higher Education PPP Programme, announced in 2017, is delivering 11 new STEM facilities across multiple campuses nationwide, with all buildings in this second bundle expected to be completed by mid-2028. AN appeal against the sentence imposed on a driver who killed Laois student Joe Drennan is set to be heard in November. A hearing date of 6 November was set in the Court of Appeal today, where the case of DPP v Kieran Fogarty was listed for mention. There was a local and national outcry last January, when the killer received concurrent sentences for unrelated offences, meaning that he would effectively serve no jail time for Joes horrific death. The 21-year-olds heartbroken family from Knocknagad, Camross, Mountrath described the concurrent sentence as an insult and immediately called on the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to appeal. As a Justice for Joe campaign gathered huge support, it was confirmed in February that the DPP would appeal the sentence imposed on driver Kieran Fogarty at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court the previous month. The upcoming appeal was sought by Joes parents Tim and Margeurite, who were utterly devastated by the concurrent sentence given to Fogarty for the University of Limerick students death. His grieving dad said that Fogarty had left Joe to die like a dog on the street. After the sentencing hearing, the family said they were disgusted by the concurrent jail term, which completely destroyed our lives for a second time in 15 months. In a handwritten statement after the hearing, Tim wrote: Joe was pinned under the car, while Fogarty sat on top of him wiping his DNA from the vehicle. He offered no assistance and just ran away, leaving him to die under the car. All we ask is that Joe has his own sentence - the maximum under law - because of the way he was left to die. My world and that of my family was destroyed that day. The familys Justice for Joe campaign saw massive support for public protests in Laois, with marches in Camross and Mountrath, as well as solidarity events at the University of Limerick and outside the Dail, an online petition and a visit to the DPPs office in Dublin by Drennan family members. Fogarty was speeding, texting and filming on a mobile phone before he lost control of a car that struck Joe near the university gates in Castletroy, while the award-winning journalism student was waiting at a bus stop on Friday 13 October, 2023. Fogarty offered no assistance to Joe but instead fled the scene, after trying to wipe his DNA from the vehicle. The 21-year-old from Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick, was given a six-and-half-year sentence for dangerous driving causing death, together with an eight-year term for discharging a firearm as part of a gangland feud. Judge Colin Daly initially indicated that the eight-year term would run consecutively, resulting in a prison sentence of 14-and-a-half-years. However, after a prosecuting barrister sought clarification, the judge ruled that the sentences would be concurrent. An online petition calling for reform of consecutive sentencing laws, set up by the family last February, was signed by nearly 15,000 people. Speaking at the Mountrath march that month, Joes sister Sarah said: While we cant bring him back, we can honour him by making sure that no other family suffers the same injustice. A MEMORABLE outdoor concert in Portlaoise brought young and not so young together for a feast of music in OMoore Place. Music on the Green saw local children and the Community Choir join forces for an uplifting celebration, which marked the culmination of a week of musical workshops. The workshops were organised by Laois Partnership Companys SICAP (Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme) team, in collaboration with Music Generation Laois (MGL). Throughout the week, children enjoyed free music workshops, where they learned songs and explored instruments in a fun and inclusive environment, as part of an initiative funded by SICAP and Healthy Ireland. Their efforts culminated in a shared performance alongside the Community Choir, showcasing the power of music to unite and uplift. Children from Laois Partnership Companys childcare centres also took part in the event, contributing to the joyful and collaborative spirit of the occasion. The concert was attended by about 100 people, reflecting the strong sense of community in OMoore Place and surrounding areas. SICAP aims to help disadvantaged communities overcome barriers to social inclusion, with services ranging from childcare assistance to after-school and youth projects, mental health initiatives, projects addressing substance abuse and community health programmes. Laois Partnership Company implements SICAP for the county, providing targeted assistance to marginalised communities and individuals such as the unemployed, residents of deprived areas, individuals with disabilities, single-parent families, low-income earners, members of the Traveller and Roma communities and other disadvantaged groups. See more photos from the event in the next edition of the Laois Nationalist, in shops and online on Tuesday 29 November More than 1,300 South Easton folks lost power Tuesday, May 13, 2025, after an explosion at a substation cut service to properties. Courtesy photo In response to growing frustration from residents over frequent power outages, Easton City Councilman Frank Pintabone has been working to find a solution to the problem. According to Pintabone, progress seems to be on the horizon. He said his concerns heightened following two incidents in May: an underground equipment failure and an explosion at a substation. Both caused significant outages across the city. An outage on Jan. 4, which left residents on Pine Street without power, also prompted concern. In response to these incidents, Pintabone and Mayor Sal Panto Jr. met with Met-Ed and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. We are dedicated to providing a positive customer experience and reliable electric service for our Met-Ed customers in Easton, Met-Ed spokesman Todd Meyers told lehighvalleylive.com. While not every outage can be prevented, we are investing in upgrades to limit the frequency, duration and scope of electric service disruptions. According to Pintabone, overgrown trees and vegetation have interfered with power lines, especially during storms. He added that aging equipment is another issue. Meyers confirmed that vegetation has been a major contributing factor. He explained the company is trimming trees along more than 400 miles of overhead power lines in the Easton area to maintain clearances to reduce the number and duration of tree-related outages. Met-Ed has developed an action plan identifying capital projects in 2025 and 2026 focused on upgrading the Glendon Substation and associated circuits, which have been linked to a large share of Eastons reliability problems. These projects include transformer replacements, cable and equipment upgrades, and system-wide vegetation management. We plan to replace the transformer and other key equipment at the Glendon Substation starting in spring 2026, Meyers said. When complete by the end of the year, the project should improve electric service reliability for about 14,400 Met-Ed customers across Easton. Equipment upgrades Met-Ed is pursuing other short-term upgrades, such as installing two remote control switches on lines that feed Eastons north side near North 13th Street and Bushkill Drive. Meyers said one of the switches is already in place and the second is expected later this summer. These switches will allow operators to reroute electricity more quickly during outages. Work is also underway to replace a circuit breaker in a substation serving about 900 customers on South Side Easton. Met-Ed is also conducting a full-scale assessment of Downtown Eastons underground electrical network. We plan to kick off a major, multi-year project to modernize Eastons network in 2026, Meyers said. Substations and streetlights Pintabone also noted that Met-Ed has begun relocating a substation in South Sides Highlands neighborhood to a more accessible location near Morgan Hill Road, which is expected to improve reliability for about 500 customers. A lot of times, only the Highlands went out, and its because theyre on that substation, Pintabone said. The majority of us are on [the Glendon substation]. [Met-Ed] informed us that they have identified that, and theyre already putting in a new substation over there. As part of a broader statewide initiative, Met-Ed also plans to convert 85,000 traditional streetlights to energy-efficient LEDs over the next decade. We will continue to review and rectify streetlight outages in Easton and plan to convert older lights in the city to long-lasting, energy-efficient LED streetlights as part of our statewide plan, Meyers said. Improving communication Communication between Met-Ed and the city is another area Pintabone has worked to improve, particularly when it comes to streetlight repairs and outage updates. Even as simple as street lights. When a resident calls me, I put the work order in immediately, he said. It might be three, four days, the light still isnt working. Did they get out there? Is there a bigger problem? We dont know. Pintabone emphasized that residents deserve to be informed, and he will continue monitoring the situation closely. Meyers said Met-Ed will continue sharing updates with stakeholders. The reason I made the call was because it seems to be happening way too often now, Pintabone said. And I dont think I was getting answers that our residents deserved. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Chelsea McClure can be reached at cmcclure@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on instagram at @chelsealehighvalley. Bryan Kohberger, facing first-degree murder charges in the deaths of four University of Idaho students last fall, is taken by sheriff's deputies from the Monroe County Courthouse in Stroudsburg, Pa., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. Steven M. Falk/The Philadelphia Inquirer File Photo via AP UPDATE: A judge Wednesday ordered Bryan Kohberger to serve life in prison without parole for killing four University of Idaho students in their rental home in 2022. Kohberger was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary and assessed $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. He has waived his right to appeal. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as his sentencing hearing began Wednesday. This world was a better place with her in it, Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University at the time. You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, Steve Goncalves said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Judge Steven Hippler was expected to order Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for the brutal stabbing deaths of Mogen, Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin early on Nov. 13, 2022. The defendant pleaded guilty early this month, just weeks before his trial was to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Kohberger, who attended DeSales University and had other ties to the Lehigh Valley, broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, though Kohberger was to be given an opportunity to speak later in the hearing. Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, took the light they carried into each room. He is a hollow vessel, something less than human, Mortenson said. A body without empathy without remorse. Mortenson and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks and anxiety after the attack. I slept in my parents room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Funke wrote in a statement read by a friend. I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or Im about to lose someone else that I love. Alivea Goncalvess voice didnt waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the killings, including what her sisters last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are, Alivea Goncalves said. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Kohbergers mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogens grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. Police initially had no suspects in the killings, which terrified the rural western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. A knife sheath left near Mogens body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, investigators said, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect and accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvanias Monroe County about six weeks after the killings. Both the investigation and the case drew widespread attention. Discussion groups proliferated online, members eagerly sharing their theories and questions about the case. Some armchair web-sleuths pointed fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Misinformation spread, piling additional distress on the already-traumatized community. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Defeat a Demogorgon in the Upside Down with Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever in this limited-edition, Stranger Things-inspired Nike Rebel edition jersey. You can shop the Stranger Things Rebel Collection on Fanatics here. Fanatics launch includes Clark, Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell jerseys, t-shirts and a fleece pullover hoodie. The jerseys spooky, red-and-black hued retro design pays tribute to the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana complete with a Stranger Things font. Heres a list of items available from the Stranger Things Rebel Collection via Fanatics: The Fever first teamed up with Netflix on a Stranger Things-inspired uniform back in 2021. Season 5 of Stranger Things premieres on Netflix with Volume 1 on Nov. 26, 2025. Check out the official, teaser trailer for the shows final chapter below: Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Phillipsburg Municipal Building at 120 Filmore St., in the former Freeman Elementary School. Town Council and Land Use Board meetings are held in the community room at 535 Fisher Ave. Glenn Epps Phillipsburg officials are considering selling the towns wastewater system after a financial report revealed the sale could generate approximately $21 million, while the aging infrastructure requires millions in urgent repairs. The town council has scheduled a public hearing for Wednesday night to review findings presented by Phoenix Advisors, following the towns acceptance of a Sewer System Evaluation Report at a June 11 meeting. Laois County Council have issued a tender in search of a marketing company to promote the J17 National Enterprise Park in Portlaoise. The Business Support Unit of Laois County Council is searching for a company to 'coordinate information gathering' and 'develop and deliver a comprehensive, multi-channel campaign' that will promote the enterprise park as a premier business location. The Portlaoise park consists of 270 acres of enterprise/industrial zoned lands which includes lands owned by Laois County Council, IDA and private ownership. Two large companies have expanded to the business park in recent months. Midland Steel, based in Mountmellick recently opened a vast new plant in J17 National Enterprise Park in Portlaoise to produce its unique FasterFix Ready Mesh, doubling its workforce to about 140 employees. BNL Sciences, part of the international company Caldic, recently announced their intentions to build a new plant in the park. "Tenders are invited from suitably qualified and experienced companies," the tender read. Payment for this six month contract is a whopping 130,000, excluding VAT. The deadline for applicants is Monday July 28 at 4pm. The Enterprise Park is a strategically positioned Enterprise and Employment zone situated directly at the M7/M8 motorway interchange," the Council said. "The J17 National Enterprise Park is focused on heavy, light and ICT industry, trade warehousing, distribution, logistics and other uses associated with the transport industry. "Located directly on the M7/M8 National Motorway Network it enables easy access to Cork, Limerick and Dublin including Dublin Airport and Port within one hour," they finished. A date has been set down for the appeal of the sentence imposed on the man who killed Laois student Joe Drennan. It was announced in February that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was appealing the sentence given to Kieran Fogarty in Limerick Circuit Criminal Court in January. READ MORE: Laois man claims 1,000,000 lotto jackpot The case of DPP v Kieran Fogarty was listed for mention in the Court of Appeal, sitting in Dublin, this Wednesday. A hearing date of November 6, 2025, was set down. Fogarty was speeding, texting and filming on a mobile phone prior to losing control of his car which struck Joe in Castletroy on October 13, 2023. The award-winning journalism student was waiting at a bus stop after finishing work in a nearby restaurant. Fogarty (pictured below) fled the scene after attempting to wipe his DNA from the car. He didnt offer any assistance to Joe who was pinned under the car. Fogarty, aged 21, Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick, received a six-and-half-year sentence for dangerous driving causing the death of Joe, aged 21. Judge Colin Daly then handed down an eight-year sentence for shooting up a house as part of a gangland feud to be served consecutively. This would have meant Fogarty receiving a 14-and-a-half-year jail term. Judge Daly then said it was to be served concurrently after prosecuting barrister John O'Sullivan sought clarification. The total of eight years imprisonment was backdated to October 23, 2023, when Fogarty first entered custody. Members of the Drennan family from Knocknagad, Camross, Mountrath said after the sentencing hearing they were disgusted. They said Fogarty would not serve anything for Joes death and it was an insult. The family said the jail sentence imposed on Fogarty has completely destroyed our lives for a second time in 15 months. They say Joe was never in trouble a day in his life but now after his death he has been mixed up in serious criminality through the sentences imposed. The family immediately called on the DPP to appeal the sentence. There were protests outside the Dail, a visit to the DPP office by members of the Drennan family and gatherings in solidarity with the family in University of Limerick. Joes dad, Tim, in a handwritten statement after the sentencing hearing, wrote: Joe was pinned under the car while Fogarty sat on top of him wiping his DNA from the vehicle. He offered no assistance and just ran away leaving him to die under the car. All we ask is that Joe has his own sentence - the maximum under law - because of the way he was left to die. My world and that of my family was destroyed that day. Limerick gardai were also extremely disappointed at how the sentencing hearing was handled in January. The investigation was one of the largest and most extensive in the Limerick Garda Division in recent years. Local gardai hoped that the conclusion of the case would bring the bereft family some comfort to see Fogarty serve a jail sentence for killing their beloved Joe. They supported the Drennan family completely in their campaign for the sentence to be appealed and have supported them in any way they could. The organisers of a Laois parade, paid by public donations, have left some of their hired entertainers unpaid, but are refuting suggestions of wrongdoing. Mountmellick St Patricks Day parade and Boglands Festival was organised both this year and in 2022, by two local people, Jason McInerney and Martina Kelly. They have refused to publish accounts as requested by several local people, instead alleging that there is a character assassination campaign underway. They have instead shared a half hour video statement on social media, reading out accounts and giving reasons for not paying their contractors. The organisers who call their group Mountmellick Central Hub, held a weekend of events for the public to enjoy, including live music and family entertainers. See photos of the 2025 Mountmellick St Patrick's Day Parade here. Their fundraising had included door to door collections and cash sponsorship from many Mountmellick businesses. Mr McInerney now claims that it totalled 8,531.11, but that the event cost 11,881.11, a shortfall of over 3,000. He further claims that eight businesses including stall vendors, owe them a total of 2,300. He said he regrets that 3,200 of their bills remain unpaid. I acknowledge those people that are waiting on funds from us. Youve done your duty and you provided a service that was asked of you. I wholeheartedly apologise to you that its taken this long to settle these accounts. As you can see we have been left in a precarious position here, Mr McInerney said. A video still of the statement by Jason McInerney and Martina Kelly who run Mountmellick Central Hub. He is critical of Laois County Council for not giving them a festival grant, either for their 2022 event or this year. However he confirms why. In 2022 the council asked for us to have the same name for our bank account, our group and our tax reference number. That opened a can of worms, something we never thought we would have to go through. A few days before St Patricks Day this year we received our tax registration update and were able to put our details on that account. We sent the application this morning (July 21) for the third time with a letter explaining that we cant pay our suppliers. We have asked them to pay us in 14 days or give an adequate response. If we do not receive a satisfactory response we will have no option but to start legal proceedings, Mr McInerney said. He said they also applied for grants from other groups including the National Lottery but have been unsuccessful. Mr McInerney further stated that they have 800, plus 170 in a Gofundme account that is currently unretrievable. Both Mr McInerney and Ms Kelly insist they have done no wrong. My intention has been pure. My team has given nothing but their heart. Its so disrespectful, he said. Ms Kelly criticised the commenters online as keyboard warriors saying I pay my bills. They announced intentions to continue running the parade in 2026, and to apply for a grant from Laois Partnership. The issue came to the public forum in July when the Mountmellick community was asked to put pressure on the group to pay its bills, by a Kerry based animal roadshow business, in a Facebook post. The parade was a great success for the public at the expense of companies like myself who came all the way from Kerry, Ms Marie Lennon Fleming said. It spurred a big reaction, both of sympathy to out of pocket entertainers, and of concern, calling on the parade organisers to display their accounts and their grant applications. Well known Laois entertainer Clown Jeca also claims that he has still not been paid for his work at the 2022 parade. See interview with Clown Jeca in the current issue of Laois Live magazine. Clown Jeca at the Folly Festival. Photo: Alf Harvey He told the Leinster Express / Laois Live that it is the first time in his 25 years living in Ireland not to get paid. He promised me payment in a few days. I never received this payment and I discovered that, like me, several people at the time also did not receive their payments. He, like others on the committee, blocked my number. Read also: IN PICTURES: Laois GAA fans out in force to support All-Ireland team "To my indignation I discovered that this year the same people involved in 2022 were at the front of this year's Mountmellick St Patrick's parade. I, who for years have had the mission of making people laugh and happy, I saw myself again getting very upset with injustices like this one, Jeca said. Laois County Council gave the following comment. Laois County Council has received no written correspondence in relation to the Boglands festival and therefore has no comment to make on the matter. 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. An animal rescue charity caring for the swans rescued from a Laois oil spill have issued a new update. Kildare Wildlife Rescue (KWR) recently saved a family of swans from a lake in Kilminchy on July 10, and are currently rehabilitating the birds. Meanwhile, another family of swans was rescued by the group from an oil spill in Kilbogget Park, Co Dublin. Pictured: One of the Laois swans is examined by KWR following the oil spill. Photo: KWR "Our dedicated team at Kildare Wildlife Rescue has been working tirelessly, especially after receiving an urgent call about the devastating spill at Kilbogget Park, caused by an incident during a diesel delivery by Bank of Ireland," the charity has shared. "In response to this, Bank of Ireland has stepped forward, acknowledging the situation and generously donating 10,000 to support our rescue efforts. "We are incredibly grateful for this contribution, which will directly assist in the rehabilitation of the swan family," the group said. "Its been a challenging time. We are saddened to report that one of the cygnets did not survive due to the severity of the oil spill. The rehabilitation of oiled birds is an intensive process, requiring careful monitoring and gradual recovery. "Our team remains focused on nurturing the remaining swans and ensuring their road to recovery is as smooth as possible. "As we continue to monitor wildlife at Kilbogget, were also caring for another swan family from a recent spill in Kilminchy, Portlaoise," they updated. "Both families have undergone washing by our skilled team and will stay at our centre until theyre fit and ready for their safe return home. "This busy period for our organisation has seen a remarkable increase in wildlife distress calls, with a 40% rise compared to last year. "Our team is working harder than ever, but we could not do it without the support of our incredible community. We rely almost entirely on donations from the public and the tireless efforts of our volunteers, who juggle their passion for wildlife with their everyday jobs. We will keep you updated on these beautiful swans," the group finished. The group have said that the swans cannot be released until the spills are cleared up, and if they are released at another location they will fly back to their original home and risk being exposed to oil again. He said that often the birds cannot survive the added stress of being kept in captivity, being cleaned and being handled by humans for too long. KWR urge people in Kilminchy to keep their dogs on leads, as they may chase sick birds back into the water. Kildare South Fine Gael TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has said that 744,222 will be allocated between five projects in Kildare to deliver essential water and wastewater infrastructure. Minister Heydon said this allocation is part of national funding of 73.9m which has been allocated to 291 water projects across the county, under the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 20242026. READ NEXT: GALLERY: The Gerard Manley Hopkins International Festival 2025 launch in Newbridge, Kildare Todays announcement is great news for communities in Kildare. Its so important that we protect our water sources and ensure the highest standards in water treatment. We must ensure that communities across Kildare have the benefit of high-quality infrastructure and water services, the Minister said. The successful Kildare projects under this round of funding are Lipstown-Narraghmore Group Water Scheme, Usk Gormanstown Group Water Scheme, Ballindoolin Group Water Scheme, Sherlockstown Common Group Water Scheme and Bishopscourt Group Water Scheme. The Rural Water Programme delivers improvements to private domestic water and wastewater services in areas of rural Ireland where there are no public water services", Minister Heydon added. This funding and the completion of these projects will allow Group Water Schemes to continue to improve the quality, quantity and reliability of the water services across Kildare. The allocation of 73.9m for 291 projects across the country will directly benefit 63,000 rural households and will address a wide range of needs such as water quality and infrastructure upgrades. Concluding, Minister Heydon said: Fine Gael is working hard to improve our infrastructure to ensure more homes can be built. This funding to improve our water and waste water facilities will go a long way to supporting communities in Kildare. Woodbine Books in Kilcullen has secured a grant of up to 5,000 as part of the Books At One Community Fund 2025. The Kilcullen bookstore was the successful Kildare nominee following a national call for submissions to deliver interesting and innovative community initiatives. The announcement of the store came as Books At One today announced that 21 stores across the country would receive funding as part of the Books At One Community Prize Fund. Each winning independent Irish bookstore will receive a grant of up to 5,000 to deliver a unique community engagement initiative that reimagines how bookshops can serve as creative and social hubs across Ireland. The Books At One Community Fund, supported by The One Foundation, was launched to support independent bookshop owners in helping bring creative ways to connect with their local communities, where they may not have had the resource or finance to do previously. Whether through inclusive cultural events, youth workshops, or storytelling festivals, the initiative will assist independent bookstores to bring innovative ideas to life which will benefit their local communities. Recipients of the Books At One Community Prize Fund 2025 are: The Secret Bookshelf, Carrickfergus, Antrim Banner Books, Kilrush, Clare Antiquity @ The Time travellers, Skibbereen, Cork Fermoy Books, Fermoy, Cork Fermoy Books, Fermoy, Cork Leaf and Bower, Ballincollig, Cork Leaf and Bower, Ballincollig, Cork Midleton Books, Midleton, Cork Midleton Books, Midleton, Cork Philips Bookshop, Mallow, Cork Philips Bookshop, Mallow, Cork Quay Books, Limerick City, Limerick Quay Books, Limerick City, Limerick Bridge Books, Dromore, Down Bridge Books, Dromore, Down Books Upstairs, Dublin Books Upstairs, Dublin Charlie Byrnes, Galway Charlie Byrnes, Galway Kennys Bookshop & Art Gallery, Galway Kennys Bookshop & Art Gallery, Galway Dingle Book Shop, Dingle, Kerry Dingle Book Shop, Dingle, Kerry Woodbine Books, Kilcullen, Kildare Woodbine Books, Kilcullen, Kildare The Reading Room, Carrick On Shannon, Leitrim The Reading Room, Carrick On Shannon, Leitrim Roe River Books, Dundalk, Louth Roe River Books, Dundalk, Louth Castle Books, Castlebar, Mayo Castle Books, Castlebar, Mayo Bookworm, Thurles, Tipperary Bookworm, Thurles, Tipperary Halfway up the Stairs, Greystones, Wicklow Halfway up the Stairs, Greystones, Wicklow Tales for Tadpoles, Bray, Wicklow Tales for Tadpoles, Bray, Wicklow Red Books, Wexford Town, Wexford Books At One are delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Community Fund. This fund was developed to support independent bookstore owners in creating new and interesting ways their store could be used for community engagement, creating more welcoming spaces that reflect the voices in their local towns. We believe the power of a bookshop goes far beyond bookshelves and look forward to seeing how these ideas come to life across the country said Eoghan Stack, Chairperson of The One Foundation. The winning ideas will be brought to life over the coming months, across towns and cities with events and activities that put people and stories at the heart of community life. For further information or to follow the progress of these projects, visit www.booksatone.ie or follow @books_at_one on Instagram READ NEXT: 37m solar farm approved for this Kildare region With works nearly completed at Aghoo Bridge, Cllr Gary Prior said that councillors have been made aware of "some cracks and movement" and asked if a structural engineers report has been carried out by Leitrim County Council on Aghoo Bridge, particularly in light of the works recently undertaken by Waterways Ireland. He said there appeared to be new cracks and signs of movement in the original stonework of the bridge and requested the council provide the findings and outline any recommended actions arising from the report. The Leitrim Observer previously reported that the underpass construction at Aghoo Bridge on the R204 in Ballinamore has run nine weeks over schedule and cost almost half a million euro. READ MORE: Current south Leitrim water system is 'crumbling' - councillors speak out The official response said that as part of the Aghoo Pedestrian Underpass Project, a Condition Survey is required on completion of all site works which includes pre and post construction work surveys. The pre-condition survey identified that while there were no major structural defects, there were a number of minor defects including but not limited to cracks to the parapet walls and leaning of the parapet walls. The post-condition survey has yet to be fully completed and an update will be provided when the document is drafted. READ MORE: Carole Coleman on swapping the newsroom for a new path Cllr Paddy O'Rourke supported the motion and asked about the "concrete bumpers that were added in" and was told that they were crash barriers and would be clad with stone. He also asked if the fencing on the Ballinamore side of the bridge "is as good as it's going to get in terms" and was told it was temporary until the crash barriers are installed. Cllr Prior asked about Drumreilly side and "if the crash barrier takes the whole bend in" and was told that it did. He added: "Just that in frosty conditions, it could be dangerous." The family of Leitrim pensioner Liam Farrell is set to meet with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris on July 31 in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, in a bid to finally receive answers about the investigation into his death. This meeting, which will be one of Harris' final official duties before stepping down, follows the family's ongoing campaign to have the case reopened. Liam Farrell, 87, was found dead at the back of his home near Rooskey on January 11, 2020. His body was discovered severely bruised and bloodied, with signs suggesting a violent attack. The post-mortem examination concluded that Farrell died from a heart attack caused by severe coronary disease, but the circumstances surrounding his death raised suspicions. The inquest returned an open verdict, leaving the family with unanswered questions about whether the case had been treated as a potential crime. In response to the family's concerns, Garda Commissioner Harris ordered a peer review of the initial investigation. The review resulted in 23 recommendations, though no new inquiry was launched. Among the suggestions was the controversial proposal to consult an expert on Labrador behavior to determine if Farrells dog, Marley, had removed his shoes and socks. The Farrell family was left stunned by this suggestion and expressed frustration with the lack of progress. They now hope that Commissioner Harris will provide the much-needed answers during their upcoming meeting. The Farrells said they plan to press Harris on the progress made since the peer review, particularly seeking clarification on the investigations handling. "We dont want to get out ahead of the meeting but we are not going to let our father's case rest until it has been properly investigated," said Peter Farrell, one of Liam's sons. The family is determined to ensure that Liam Farrells death is fully examined and that the original investigation is thoroughly scrutinized. READ MORE Former TD Colm Keaveney banned from driving for four years Two people have died and two people have been seriously injured in a shooting incident in Co Fermanagh. Police said the incident happened in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge, and that officers were at the scene which had been cordoned off. A Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesperson said they could confirm that two people had died, and two people were being treated in hospital for serious injuries. READ NEXT: 'We're truly shattered' - Tributes paid to young Irish man who died in France Our officers are at the scene of a shooting incident within the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge. Two people have died, and two people are being treated in hospital for serious injuries. An update will follow. Full details: https://t.co/pUxBBqocQD pic.twitter.com/WyA0oQRpkG Police Fermanagh and Omagh (@PSNIFermOmagh) July 23, 2025 We can advise there is no ongoing risk to the public, they said. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said they received a 999 call at 0821 on Wednesday, and dispatched three emergency ambulances, one rapid response paramedic, two ambulance officers and an ambulance doctor to the scene. Following assessment and initial treatment at scene, one patient has been taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast by Air Ambulance and another to South West Acute Hospital by Ambulance, they said. Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Pat Cullen expressed her deep shock. Firstly my thoughts are with the victims and their families at this tragic time, the Sinn Fein representative said. I am in contact with the police around this ongoing situation. Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen has expressed her deep shock following the reports that two people have died in Fermanagh this morning.@patcullen9 https://t.co/6UdtSM09oI Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) July 23, 2025 Police are currently at the scene of an incident outside Maguiresbridge and there are a number of road closures while they carry out their investigations. I would urge people to not speculate on the details of this tragic and shocking incident. READ NEXT: ALERT: Recall issued on popular dinners sold in most Irish supermarkets amid bacteria fears DUP MLA Deborah Erskine described a truly shocking incident which has stunned the entire community. The area of Maguiresbridge where this has happened is a rural, quiet area and everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning, she said. My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning. This morning I was speaking to police dealing with the incident. I paid tribute to the emergency services at the scene. I also appeal for privacy to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations. GalleryFollowing the Trump administration's announcement at the end of June that it would suspend its financial support to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Le Monde is presenting the work of German photographer Nanna Heitmann, who documented what is set to be both the first and last HPV vaccination campaign in Nepal. A few days after arriving at the White House, US President Donald Trump abruptly froze US foreign development aid. The measure was quickly followed by the gradual dismantling of USAID, the main instrument of American humanitarian diplomacy, resulting in the complete suspension of many international aid grants. To confirm his administration's intentions, US Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared on June 26 that the government was suspending its partnership with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. He warned, "Until Gavi considers all available science and re-earns public trust, the United States will not contribute further funding." Gavi said it had received $300 million from the US in 2024. This winter, photographer Nanna Heitmann followed the first large-scale HPV vaccination campaign in Nepal, funded by Gavi. Around 1.6 million girls between the ages of 10 and 14 received the vaccine. The assignment also gave Heitmann the opportunity to meet communities often far from the spotlight and media attention, especially in Timang, a Himalayan village located at 2,615 meters above sea level. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in the world and is responsible for many cases of cervical cancer. Its impact is greatest in low and middle-income countries, where reaching at-risk populations through vaccination is particularly challenging. With the withdrawal of US support, this first vaccination campaign may well be the last. You have 0% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close A DATE has been set down for the appeal of the sentence imposed on the man who killed University of Limerick Journalism student Joe Drennan. It was announced in February that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was appealing the sentence given to Kieran Fogarty in Limerick Circuit Criminal Court in January. READ MORE: 'She lived for her son:' Grieving Limerick family pays tribute to 'larger than life' mother The case of DPP v Kieran Fogarty was listed for mention in the Court of Appeal, sitting in Dublin, this Wednesday. A hearing date of November 6, 2025, was set down. Fogarty was speeding, texting and filming on a mobile phone prior to losing control of his car which struck Joe in Castletroy on October 13, 2023. The award-winning young student was waiting at a bus stop after finishing work in a nearby restaurant. Fogarty (pictured below) fled the scene after attempting to wipe his DNA from the car. He didnt offer any assistance to Joe who was pinned under the car. Fogarty, aged 21, Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick, received a six-and-half-year sentence for dangerous driving causing the death of Joe, aged 21. Judge Colin Daly then handed down an eight-year sentence for shooting up a house as part of a gangland feud to be served consecutively. This would have meant Fogarty receiving a 14-and-a-half-year jail term. Judge Daly then said it was to be served concurrently after prosecuting barrister John O'Sullivan sought clarification. The total of eight years imprisonment was backdated to October 23, 2023, when Fogarty first entered custody. Members of the Drennan family from Knocknagad, Camross, Mountrath, Co Laois said after the sentencing hearing they were disgusted. They said Fogarty would not serve anything for Joes death and it was an insult. The family said the jail sentence imposed on Fogarty has completely destroyed our lives for a second time in 15 months. They say Joe was never in trouble a day in his life but now after his death he has been mixed up in serious criminality through the sentences imposed. The family immediately called on the DPP to appeal the sentence. There were protests outside the Dail, a visit to the DPP office by members of the Drennan family and gatherings in solidarity with the family in University of Limerick. Joes dad, Tim, in a handwritten statement to the Limerick Leader after the sentencing hearing, wrote: Joe was pinned under the car while Fogarty sat on top of him wiping his DNA from the vehicle. He offered no assistance and just ran away leaving him to die under the car. All we ask is that Joe has his own sentence - the maximum under law - because of the way he was left to die. My world and that of my family was destroyed that day. Limerick Live learned that Limerick gardai were also extremely disappointed at how the sentencing hearing was handled in January. The investigation was one of the largest and most extensive in the Limerick Garda Division in recent years. Local gardai hoped that the conclusion of the case would bring the bereft family some comfort to see Fogarty serve a jail sentence for killing their beloved Joe. They supported the Drennan family completely in their campaign for the sentence to be appealed and have supported them in any way they could. A JURY has found former All-Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler, Niall Gilligan not guilty of assaulting a then 12 year old boy with a stick almost two years ago. At Ennis Circuit Court today, the jury of seven men and five women delivered a majority 'not guilty' verdict against the charge that Mr Gilligan (48) of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge had assaulted causing harm of the boy with a stick at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5, 2023. Mr Gilligan sat impassively in the court as the court registrar read out the not guilty majority verdicts in the case concerning the assault causing harm charge and producing a stick under Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act at the same location on the same date. Two women in the Gilligan family group seated at the back of the court to support Mr Gilligan wept as the 'not guilty' verdicts were called out while the parents of the then 12 year old sitting on the opposite side of the court left the courtroom shortly after the verdicts were announced. READ MORE: Date fixed for appeal of the sentence received by Limerick killer of Joe Drennan The jury delivered their majority 'not guilty' verdict after five hours and three minutes of deliberations and returned to the court 48 minutes after Judge Francis Comerford directed shortly after mid-day on Wednesday that they could deliver a majority 11-1 or 10-2 verdict. Shortly before 1pm, the foreman replied yes when asked by the court registrar had at least 10 of the jury reached a verdict in the case. The jury reached their verdicts after five days of evidence, closing speech by lawyers from both sides and the judge's charge in the case. Judge Comerford thanked the jury for the careful deliberations you have taken. Mr Gilligan spoke briefly with his legal team of solicitor, Daragh Hassett and Patrick Whyms BL in the body of the court before leaving the courtroom. A farmer and auctioneer in Sixmilebridge, Mr Gilligan was not on legal aid for the case and will have to pay his legal bill from the six-day long trial from his own resources. In his closing speech to the jury, counsel for Mr Gilligan, Mr Whyms said on the evening at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Mr Gilligan didnt know that he was dealing with a child and did not create this situation. Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan "was at the end of his tether" by the vandalism being done to a vacant property he was trying to sell. Putting forward the defence of reasonable force against the charge of assault causing harm, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan was at the Jamaica Inn hostel on the night of October 5 in the dark and believed that he was under siege. He said: Believing himself under threat and needing to protect himself and his property, Niall Gilligan needs to make an instant decision and so we are here." Mr Whyms said: And Mr Gilligan, a family man who has young children and no previous convictions gives a clear story which hast changed and an entirely credible, fulsome account of what happened." Mr Whyms said to the jury: Did Niall Gilligan use such force as was reasonable in the circumstances as he believed them to be and if he did then no offence was committed. In his prepared statement at Shannon Garda Station in February 2024 on the alleged assault, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan has given a perfectly plausible account in an otherwise impeccably accurate description of what occurred which placed the boys inside the building when he met them. On the medical evidence, Mr Whyms said: Nobody wants to see a child being injured and it would be much better if that didnt happen and the boy was injured in this case." He said: There doesnt seem to be much room for argument that he was injured from the actions of Niall Gilligan. Mr Whyms said that a displaced fracture of a finger on the boys left hand is the only fracture in this case. He said: There is an un-displaced fracture of a finger - that is not a good thing to happen but that it is what happened He said: There were injuries and there were sustained in the incident but by and large, most were cleared up in the week and the last one was pretty well cleared up in two weeks." Mr Whyms said that the injuries dont look nice on the photographs - there is no getting away from that and injuries that are photographed immediately after don't look nice. Mr Whyms said that the injuries sustained by the boy are clearly regrettable. A VOLATILE and unhinged man with a propensity for extreme violence, who sleeps with a gun by his side, fired a shot during a robbery in Limerick city with staff members fearing for their lives. Detective Garda Enda Clifford said the accused showed no remorse for the staff in the shop and he had to be tasered and pepper sprayed such was his resistance to arrest. READ MORE: Jury returns not guilty verdict in case where Clare hurler Niall Gilligan was accused of assaulting a child Polish man David Pejas, aged 33, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to a total of five charges - having a firearm with intent to commit robbery, robbery and reckless discharge of a firearm at CEX Electronics, Cruises Street on April 8, 2024. Pejas also pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances at Ballycasey Court, Shannon on April 12, 2024. They are airguns designed to resemble Heckler and Koch USP and CZ 75 P-07 semi-automatic pistols. Prosecuting barrister John OSullivan, instructed by State solicitor Padraig Mawe, outlined the evidence at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court with the assistance of Det Garda Clifford. Mr Pejas entered CEX Electronics at 10.30am on April 8, 2024 and waited until customers left. Mr OSullivan said a female staff member went to assist Pejas but he was mumbling in a language she didn't understand. She apologised and sensed that this man got aggravated by this. Her supervisor came over to offer assistance and the man continued mumbling. They couldnt understand what he was saying. They thought he was talking about a video game. He became extremely aggressive, produced a gun and pointed it directly at two staff members. The female staff member thought she was going to be shot dead on the spot. She stated, It's hard to explain the fear I had at that moment. I feared for my life and for the life of my colleague. I ducked down just below the level of the counter and I heard a loud bang. She knew at that point that he had fired a gun, said Mr OSulivan. Pejas had shot at a TV hanging behind the counter. He demanded two Apple iPhones - 13 and 15 Pro Max -but when the female went to the window where the phones were, she froze as she was shaking with fear. The male staff member got the phones and gave them to Mr Pejas who began screaming to give him phone chargers. The accused demanded cash, saying b*****d I will shoot you. The male employee gave him 270 and Pejas left the shop. The two iPhones cost 1,270 and 780. Mr OSullivan said the two staff members were both convinced they were going to be shot. The female said she had nightmares, lost her appetite and went to her GP who prescribed medication to help with sleep and anxiety. She feared she wouldnt see her family again, said Mr OSullivan. Det Garda Clifford said the armed robbery had a profound effect on the young woman and she left her employment with CEX Electronics. After the robbery, Pejas got a taxi to Shannon and paid the driver for the fare. Det Gard Clifford said gardai commenced a large investigation and surveillance operation in Shannon which led to Pejas being identified as a suspect. Gardai raided a house in Ballycasey Court, Shannon on April 12, 2024 with the assistance of the Armed Support Unit. Mr OSullivan said five doors at the property had to be breached due to resistance bands. Det Garda Clifford said gardai hadn't encountered them before A taser and pepper spray had to be utilised such was the resistance we were met by Mr Pejas upon entering the bedroom, said Det Garda Cifford. Gardai recovered the two phones and two firearms. Pejas made full and frank admissions when interviewed by gardai. He told them, A smart man knows he doesn't have to say much when he sees panic. Det Garda Clifford said Pejas told them he discharged the shot to create panic. Pejas told gardai he was desperate at the time and when he is desperate, he has to do a robbery. No house, no job, no money. Now I have big problem, Pejas told gardai. I should have just shown the gun. That would be enough. I should not have shot. 364 days of the year I am normal, just one day I am mad, he said during questioning. Pejas said he purchased the imitation firearms from a Polish military website and got them couriered into the country concealed in clothing, wrapped in cardboard. He said he was lucky to get the firearms into the jurisdiction and fully aware they are illegal, said Mr OSullivan. Pejas told gardai he had been homeless for the previous two weeks and had only stayed in the house in Ballycasey Court, Shannon the previous night. He stated he used the money he stole to pay rent, always has a gun by his side even when he is sleeping, identified himself on CCTV and acknowledged his actions were crazy. Gardai asked Pejas what would he say to the two staff members now. He said the man was very smart and cheeky and the girl was very scared. Det Garda Clifford: There was no remorse. Pejas told gardai he slept with a weapon beside him. The court heard Pejas has seven previous convictions for robbery in Poland and Ireland, as well as thefts. He is somewhat volatile and unhinged with a propensity for extreme violence and there is appropriate concern for the safety of others, said Mr OSullivan. Det Garda Clifford agreed. Pejas has been in custody since April 12, 2024. READ MORE: Date fixed for appeal of the sentence received by Limerick killer of Joe Drennan Lorcan Connolly SC, who represented Mr Pejas, said there was a gap of nine years between Pejas convictions for robbery in Poland and Ireland. Det Garda Clifford concurred. Mr Connolly said one of the guns seized was described by garda ballistic experts as in poor condition. The shots smashed the TV screen which was hanging above the desk. Whether it was in poor condition or not, it was working well, replied Det Garda Clifford. The detective agreed with counsel that Pejas told them he had lost his accommodation, his job and was desperate. Mr Connolly said Pejas put it to the detective that it was "inevitable" his client would be caught. Det Garda Clifford agreed, saying there was a huge amount of CCTV harvested. In mitigation, Mr Connolly said Pejas has no previous convictions for violence or firearms offences, made full admission to gardai and has pleaded guilty. I want to apologise, on Mr Pejas behalf, to the staff members on the day in question. This was an offence that was born out of a situation where he had lost his accommodation, his job, and was in a very precarious position. It happened in broad daylight in an area well covered with CCTV and easily detected. He did not conceal his identity. The court is aware of situations where somebody comes in with a moustache and fake beard, all sorts of things, and on occasion they're not located. It happened at 10.30 in the morning. It was not a sophisticated operation, said Mr Connolly, who described Pejas as a loner. He respectfully requests leniency and mercy. He knows he is in a difficult corner, said Mr Connolly Judge Daly said he has much to consider and adjourned passing sentence on Pejas to a future date. *** READER DISCRETION ADVISED *** A YOUNG woman from County Limerick who was sexually abused from the age of 10 by a man in his 40s, who later fled the jurisdiction, said she can still hear his voice whisper, Don't tell, dont tell, it is our little secret. Limerick Circuit Criminal Court heard that the man sexually assaulted her at a location named in court, and after swimming and actively groomed her for the purpose of his own sexual gratification. He sent her photos of his penis and she sent him photos of her vagina and a video of her masturbating at his request. READ MORE: Shot fired in Limerick store by 'unhinged' robber who sleeps with a gun by his side The man, who is now aged in his 50s, cannot be named due to reporting restrictions. He was charged with 31 offences. He pleaded guilty to six sample charges - three sexual assaults, two sexual exploitation of a child and one possession of child sex abuse images. Prosecuting barrister John OSullivan, instructed by State solicitor Padraig Mawe, outlined the evidence with the assistance of Garda Mark McGauley. Mr OSullivan said the abuse started in 2010 when she was 10-years-old. It continued until 2015. She saw him touch his penis with his hand. It was not the first time this happened. He said she was 'beautiful' and a 'special girl'. He actively groomed her for his own sexual gratification, said Mr OSullivan. The abuse progressed to the accused putting the victims hand on his penis and he would put his fingers into her vagina. He told her, This is our little secret, said Mr OSullivan. The prosecuting barrister said in the summer of 2011 the defendant brought the victim swimming. Afterwards they went for a walk and lay down on the grass. He put his hand inside her underwear and put two fingers inside her vagina, said Mr OSullivan. He said the accused and victim would communicate via Facebook and Viber late at night when everyone was asleep. The accused requested the victim send photos of her vagina. She sent him 20 photos of her vagina and one video of her masturbating. He sent her 10 photos of his penis. Mr OSullivan said the photos and video were not recovered as the accused told the victim to delete them which she did. The accused told her when she was 18 they would go to Spain and go further". She didnt want that, said Mr OSullivan. The barrister said on another date the accused asked the victim to kiss his penis and he kissed her vagina. I asked him to stop. It felt weird, the victim told gardai. The child sex abuse emerged in 2015. A formal complaint to gardai was made in 2016 and the victim was interviewed by specialist gardai. The accused was arrested in 2017. Gardai discovered 120 images of child sex abuse (not of the victim) on his phone. The DPP instructed the victim be charged in 2018. Mr OSullivan said if it was a trial it would be contended he fled the jurisdiction. Mark Nicholas SC, who represented the accused, objected, saying his client left the jurisdiction. Counsel said he bought a property and ran a business. The accused was arrested on foot of a European Arrest Warrant and was extradited back to Ireland in 2024 where he has been remanded in custody since. The young woman, now in her 20s, read out her victim impact statement. She said the abuse has permanently shaped her into the woman she is today as she suffers from severe depression, anxiety and complex post traumatic stress disorder. She said she experienced flashbacks almost daily. He will never truly understand what he did to me. He stole my childhood and he stole my adulthood because I will never cleanse the memories from my mind, she said. The victim said her lifelong dream was to travel the world but she became consumed with fear that she would encounter her abuser in another country after he left the jurisdiction. The abuse continues to filter into my daily life in unexpected ways and trigger me. A song he used to play might play in a shop and it instantly transports me back, memories of what he did would surge into my mind. I can still hear his voice whisper, Don't tell, dont tell, its our little secret. I want the court to fully understand what I've suffered, what my life is truly like, what happened to me is not going and it never will. I am a true victim of child sexual abuse - it permeates everyday and everywhere I go. READ MORE: Date fixed for appeal of the sentence received by Limerick killer of Joe Drennan Mr Nicholas, for the accused, said she read the victim impact statement eloquently and the mitigation he gives, on behalf of his client, doesnt take away from that. He said it was an awfully regrettable breach of trust. Mr Nicholas said his client is aged in his 50s, has pleaded guilty, and did charity work. He cited a psychological report which put the defendant at a below average risk of reoffending. Counsel read out a letter of apology from the accused in which he expressed his remorse and shame. A member of the victims family said from the body of the court: We dont accept your apology. Judge Colin Daly said he wished to take the matter under consideration and adjourned sentencing to Monday, July 28. McCarthy Insurance Group has completed a full refurbishment of its Newcastle West office, marking another milestone in the companys long history of serving communities across Ireland. The renovated branch, located on Bridge Street, is the groups 16th office nationwide and forms part of its continued growth in the region. The refurbishment comes as McCarthy Insurance Group strengthens its presence in Limerick with the recent acquisition of John Neville Insurances Ltd., based in Askeaton. John Neville Insurances was known particularly for its expertise in horse and equestrian insurance. Its offerings included horsebox and horse lorry cover, point-to-point handlers and trainers insurance, and private horse-owner liability policies - specialist products that have served the equine community across Limerick and beyond. With John Neville Insurances now integrated into McCarthy Insurance Groups Newcastle West branch, customers can expect the same local service they have come to rely on, combined with the wider support and resources of McCarthy Insurance Group. The branch now caters for the full range of McCarthy Insurance Group products, including personal insurance such as motor and home, life cover, pensions, financial planning, health insurance, farm insurance, and business insurance for companies of all sizes. This ensures customers have access to tailored advice and solutions for every stage of personal, life, and business needs under one roof. As part of this integration, McCarthy Insurance Group is delighted to welcome new team members Kate Murray and Gillian Mortell, who join the Personal Lines team, along with Sarah Fitzgerald, who joins the branchs Administration team. Pictured: Branch Manager Sarah Nolan Branch Manager Sarah Nolan said: Were absolutely delighted with the positive response from the town of Newcastle West to our recent renovation, acquisition, and the arrival of new team members. Its an exciting new chapter for us, and we look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new customers. Our dedicated local team remains committed to offering competitive premiums, trusted advice, and personalised insurance solutions that meet the needs of our community. Established in 1952 by Charlie and Eily McCarthy, the group has grown from a small local broker into one of Irelands largest insurance brokers, employing around 200 staff nationwide. CEO of McCarthy Insurance Group Brendan Harrington said: This refurbishment and expansion reflect our ongoing commitment to local communities like Newcastle West. Were proud to continue growing while keeping that strong local connection at the heart of what we do. The refurbishment reflects McCarthy Insurance Groups commitment to providing local, expert insurance advice while investing in the communities it serves. Visit www.mig.ie for more information. *Sponsored Content Audiences in Limerick and beyond will have the chance to enjoy the newest piece by choreographer Philip Connaughton, Id Like to Get to Know You, created to mark the 15th anniversary of the Step Up Dance Project. The show will premiere at Dance Limerick on Wednesday the 30th of July and will run for two more days before moving to Dublin, where the cast will offer a studio performance at DanceHouse. Step Up Dance Project is a programme of professional development for Irish and Ireland-based recent dance graduates and early-career dance professionals in partnership between the Arts Council of Ireland, Dance Limerick, the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick and Dance Ireland. Each year, the selected artists spend their summer in the context of Dance Limerick and the Irish World Academy, training and refining their skills as performers with a different choreographer each year, as well as guest teachers, artists and mentors. The aim of the programme is to help develop and showcase the work of the next generation of Irish dance talent. To date, over 80 dancers have benefited from the programme, building vital networks and gaining the experience necessary to sustain a professional career in dance. Photos by Luca Truffarelli Choreographer Philip Connaughton and rehearsal director Lucia Kickham have been working with dancers Alice Gavigan, Sophie Gray, Ciara Hannon, Luke Maziarek and Catriona OConnor to create a piece to celebrate the culmination of this 15th edition of the programme. Id Like to Get to Know You explores the often-impossible task of bridging the gap between the artist and the outside world. At the heart of all of Connaughtons choreographywhether explicit or understatedlies a deep thread of isolation. The very impulse to perform arises from his own longing to reconnect with something that feels lost. The beauty of the work is not in resolving this tension, but in the attempt itselfin striving for the impossible, in refusing to give up, in the sheer act of doing. Performances will also bear the imprint of all the artists that the dancers get to work with during the programme, widening their horizons and exploring new movement languages. Guest teachers like Mary Nunan, Mufutau Yusuf and Justine Cooper a.o. are an integral part of the Step Up journey and this year for the first time, the participants have had the chance to participate in the Moving in Collaboration International Intensive with Luail Irelands National Dance Company. For two weeks, they will explore music and dance alongside other performers from the National company as well as Maiden Voyage Dance and over ten international choreographers and composers, bringing in a wealth of influences to the work. Audiences are welcome to experience this energetic, surprising, unexpected dance piece that will give you food for thought and laughter! Performances take place on Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st at 7.30pm, Friday 1st August at 1pm at Dance Limerick Performance Space, and Saturday 2nd of August at DanceHouse, Dublin. Tickets can be bought at dancelimerick.ie Step Up Dance Project is a partnership between the Arts Council /. An Chomhairle Ealaion, Dance Limerick, Dance Ireland and the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick. The Step Up Placement Programme is in partnership with Luail- Irelands National Dance Company. For more information visit www.dancelimerick.ie Dance Limerick, Johns Square, V94 E6H2 You can also join our mailing list here: https://mailchi.mp/d1c7a52d4436/join-our-mailing-list. *Sponsored Content LIMERICKS TUS Gaelic Grounds is gearing up to open their gates to music fans from all over Ireland on Saturday, August 23 for the anticipated The Big Day Out. With an already jam packed lineup, they have added another exciting addition to the line up. READ MORE: Chart-topping rock band head to Limerick for first release in 14 years BASSHUNTER, one of the biggest selling acts of the noughties, will take to the Gaelic Grounds stage joining Blue, Peter Andre, Whigfield, and many more. He topped the Irish charts for an unprecedented five weeks in 2008 with his floor filler Now Youre Gone. Since then BASSHUNTER has headlined sold out shows all over the country ever since. Speaking of Irish crowds, BASSHUNTER said, I just do better shows and have the best time when I come to Ireland. I do dozens of shows all over the world every year but the crowd reaction in Ireland to the music is always bigger and better as is the afterparty. Big Day Out will be MCed by Mark Mc Cabe and with more acts to be announced, the return of the Silent Disco, a brand-new site layout with new areas, and more bars, The Big Day Out is the throwback party of the summer. Two proxy advisory firms have recommended that shareholders vote against the appointment of Anant Ambani, Hital Meswani and Dinesh Kanabar to the board of Reliance Industries Ltd, India's most valuable company. Institutional Investor Advisory Services India Ltd (IiAS) and Stakeholder Empowerment Services (SES) have issued recommendations against the resolutions, citing issues around compensation and, in one case, a conflict of interest. Also Read | Anant Ambani appointed as whole-time member of Reliance Industries Ambani, 30, the youngest son of Reliance chairperson Mukesh Ambani, has less than a decade of experience in the relevant work, the proxy advisor said in a note, which recommended against his appointment as a whole-time director on the companys board. He was appointed as a non-executive, non-independent director of the company in October 2023. Incidentally, this was also opposed by IiAS. IiAS has also flagged the lack of clarity or caps on his proposed compensation, and the performance metrics which will determine his variable payout. Reliance has not disclosed how it benchmarked Anant Ambanis remuneration, as per IiAS. Lastly, the proxy advisory firm has objected to the proposal to reimburse expenses incurred by Anant Ambani for travelling, boarding and lodging during business trips, adding that some of these expenses were personal and should be borne by Ambani himself. Hital Meswani, a Reliance veteran who has been on the companys board since August 1995, has also found himself in the crosshairs of the proxy advisory firm, which has recommended voting against his re-appointment as a whole-time director. The reason was again linked to his proposed compensation, which was about 25 crore in FY24. Also Read | Anant Ambani to get THIS amount as salary as Executive Director of Reliance While we support Hital Meswanis reappointment as whole-time director, we do not support the resolution because the terms of his proposed remuneration are unclear," read the IiAS report dated 17 July. The resolutions to ratify the two appointments are ordinary; this means they will pass if half of the shareholder votes cast are in favour. Promoters control 50.07% shareholding in Reliance Industries making it likely that the resolution will sail through. What may face some challenge is the special resolution to ratify the appointment of Dinesh Kanabar, chief executive officer (CEO) and founder of Dhruva Advisors, as an independent director on Reliances board. Three-fourths of the shareholder votes cast would need to be in his favour. IiAS has opposed Kanabars reappointment citing Dhruva Advisors' ongoing engagement with Reliance Industries, which could result in a conflict of interest. The proxy advisor has instead recommended his appointment as a non-executive non-independent director. Also Read | SC to examine service tax on Reliance charter flights for executives A second proxy advisory firm, InGovern, has also raised similar concerns regarding the compensation of Anant Ambani and Hital Meswani, and the conflict of interest with Dinesh Kanabar. While InGovern has recommended shareholders to vote for the recommendations, it has urged that shareholders seek clarity from the Reliance Industries board on these concerns. Mint has reviewed the IiAS and InGovern reports, which were shared by an investor on the condition of anonymity. This publication has not reviewed the SES report, but seen its voting recommendations, which were shared by the same investor. Reliance Industries did not comment on this story. Kanabar did not respond to messages seeking comment. However, the oil-to-telecom major responded to the proxy advisory firms, and its response was carried by these firms as an addendum to their reports. Anant Ambani has been a part of the Reliance Group since 2015, and has had exposure to key facets of Reliances oil-to-chemicals business, including crude sourcing, refinery and downstream unit operations and supply and trading of products, the company wrote to the proxy advisors. His experience at the company over the years and the mentorship of the companys senior leaders over the years has given him the relevant experience and maturity to add value to board deliberations, it said. Regarding compensation, Reliance said the aggregate compensation to executive directors was less than 0.15% of the net profit of the company. The company has also restricted the compensation of all executive directors to 1% of the net profit, it said. The Companies Act, 2013 permits 5% of net profit as the remuneration permitted to each whole-time director and 10% of net profit for all of them together as the statutory limit. Reliance Industries also clarified that its business with Dhruva Advisors is relatively small, amounting to 2 crore in FY25. This was less than half a percent of Dhruvas gross revenue. The e-voting period on the resolutions started on 30 June and ended on the evening of 29 July. The outcome will be disclosed by 31 July. Reliance Industries, formerly called Reliance Textiles Industries, went public in 1977. The same year, Mukesh Ambani, then 20, joined its board. Reliance ended that year with a revenue of 70.8 crore and a profit of 1.3 crore. Mukesh Ambani took over as chair of Reliance in 2002 following the death of Dhirubhai Ambani. Reliance revenue then was 65,061 crore, and it reported a profit of 4,014 crore. Last year, Reliance ended with a revenue of 1,071,174 crore and a profit of 81,309 crore. Some of the country's other successful and revered family-owned companies have also seen the induction of family members at a young age. Azim Premji was 21 when he took over as the Chair of Wipro in 1966, while Kumar Mangalam Birla became the chairman of Aditya Birla Group in 1995 when he was 28. Proxy advisory firms advise institutional investors like mutual funds, insurers and pension funds on voting on resolutions put forth by their investee companies. Over the years, proxy advisors like IiAS, SES and InGovern have come to play an important role in enhancing corporate governance within companies. However, a higher promoter ownership in family-owned companies means many such resolutions sail through despite proxy firms recommending otherwise. A case in point: In March, TVS Group supremo Venu Srinivasans continuation in dual non-executive plus executive roles at flagship two-wheeler maker TVS Motor Co. Ltd was opposed by all three proxy advisory firms. Still, the resolution was passed by an overwhelming majority. Infosys Ltd grew the fastest among Indias five largest information technology services companies, reporting its best first-quarter performance in four years defying a slowdown in tech spending and macroeconomic uncertainty. Infosys reported $4.94 billion in revenue for the April-June periodup 4.46% from the preceding three months and 4.82% from a year earlierexceeding the $4.86 billion that analysts polled by Bloomberg had expected on average. Much of this increase in business was from energy companies, which made up 27% of the companys incremental revenue of $211 million. Infosys also raised the lower end of its revenue guidance for 2025-26 to 1-3% in constant currency terms, higher than the flat-3% growth it had projected in April, which was its slowest revenue guidance in at least a decade. Constant currency does not take currency fluctuation into account. HCL Technologies Ltd, too, recently increased the lower end of its full-year guidance. It now expects revenue growth of 3-5% in constant currency terms for FY26, up from its April projection of 2-5% growth. For the ongoing second quarter, Wipro Ltd expects either a revenue decline or a growth of up to 1%. Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, Indias largest IT vendor, and Tech Mahindra Ltd do not provide guidance. Much of the boost in Infosyss guidance is because of its acquisitions of US-based MRE Consulting and Australian cybersecurity services firm The Missing Link for about $98 million, both of which were announced earlier this year. Revenue from these two acquisitions make up almost 0.4% of the companys overall revenue growth, according to Infosyss management. Macro headwinds TCS fared the worst among Indias five largest IT services companies in the first quarter with a 0.59% sequential decline in revenue to $7.42 billionits worst first-quarter performance in 5 years. HCL Technologies, the countrys third-largest IT outsourcer, ended the June quarter with revenue of $3.55 billion, up 1.34% sequentially, while Tech Mahindra, the fifth-largest, saw its revenue grow 0.97% to $1.56 billion. Fourth-largest Wipro ended with $2.59 billion in revenue, down 0.35% sequentially. Infosyss management sounded sanguine on the companys future. With the current outlook, we have seen a lot of the discussion on the economy worldwide having come to more stable situations but still seems that it's not fully settled," said Salil Parekh, chief executive of Infosys, during the companys post-earnings press conference on Wednesday. Parekhs view was similar to that of his peers at TCS, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra, which have blamed macroeconomic uncertainties for delayed decision-making and project implementation by customers. However, HCLTechs management has said the macroeconomic environment is stable, with some sectoral variations. Infosyss operating margins in the first quarter were not much to cheer about. The company reported profitability of 20.8%, down 20 basis points sequentially, making Infosys the third large Indian IT outsourcer to slash its margins. (One basis point is a hundredth of a percentage point.) HCLTech and Wipros operating margins narrowed 160 basis points and 20 basis points to 16.3% and 17.3%, respectively. On the other hand, TCS and Tech Mahindras operating margins widened 30 basis points and 60 basis points to 24.5% and 11.1%, respectively. Infosyss big wins Infosys expects growth to pick-up in the next few quarters. Chief financial officer Jayesh Sanghrajka said the company raised the lower end of its full-year projections on the back of a strong quarter and strong deal wins". Parekh said the optimism was based on Infosys securing more consolidation deals from clients, especially in the US, its biggest market. We are seeing clients are selecting us more and more when they are looking at consolidation, because inherently, clients see Infosys as delivery, as very strong and stable, and also providing new ideas, especially on AI, for improvements into their business," said Parekh. Infosys reported large deal signings worth $3.8 billion in the first quarter, up 46% sequentially. While TCS has said that it expects IT spending by clients to resume once there is clarity in the market, Tech Mahindra has given mixed signals, its management saying that it is too soon to predict revenue growth or even a recession. HCLTech and Wipro are optimistic of a better second half in FY26 on the back of recent deal wins and a strong order pipeline. Infosyss Q1FY26 results reflect beat on revenues with a 4.46% (quarter-on-quarter) USD revenue growth with internals suggesting that it (growth) is not aided by any sequential rebound in pass-through revenues," said Manik Taneja, executive director for IT services at Axis Capital. However, a point of concern was Infosyss net profit, which fell 0.49% sequentially to $809 million in the June quarter. Infosys is the fourth large IT outsourcer to report a fall in net profit for the first quarter. Tough road ahead Infosys increased its headcount by 210 to end the June quarter with 323,788 employees. HCLTech cut headcount by 269 people to end the first quarter with 223,151 employees, while Tech Mahindras headcount fell by 214 to 148,517 employees. Wipro also reduced headcount in the first quarter, by 114 people to 233,232 employees. TCS is the only top IT outsourcer in the country to have added headcount during the June quarter, up by 5,090 people to end the period with 613,069 employees. Three of the countrys five largest IT outsourcers cutting headcount signals a tougher road ahead. More headcount in an IT services company implies more demand for their IT services. The decrease in headcount comes in the backdrop of a tariff war started by US President Donald Trump coupled with geopolitical uncertainties. These can force large Fortune clients, many of which count Infosys as their IT vendor, to hold their IT spending. Infosys shares were up 1.26% at $18.49 apiece on the New York Stock Exchange at 6:04 pm IST. On NSE, before its results were announced, Infosys ended Wednesday down 0.76% at 1,558.90 each, while the Nifty IT index gained 0.16%. Also Read | Shrinking margin leaves HCLTech stock with no room for error Also Read | Tech Mahindras Q1 positives overshadowed by macro blues Also Read | Wipro starts the year slow but pins hopes on large deals New Delhi: The government is likely to solely focus on completing the strategic sale of IDBI Bank by December and push its disinvestment plans for other public sector undertakings (PSUs) to the last quarter of FY26, two people aware of the matter said. The move aims to avoid market crowding and ensure sufficient investor appetite, they said. The IDBI Bank transaction is expected to fetch about 50,000 crore for the central government and Life Insurance Corp. of India, which together hold over 94% in the bank, the people said. The key stakeholders plan to divest a total of 60.72% stake in the lender. There has been no major asset monetization or stake sale in the first quarter and the second quarter of the current fiscal could also remain subdued, the first person said. "While the stake sale in IDBI Bank is likely to fetch about 50,000 crore, another 10,000-15,000 crore could come from offers for sale of equity in other listed public sector undertakings," the first person added. Mint had reported earlier that there were as many as eight strategic disinvestment plans at various stages, including stake sales in BEML Ltd, Shipping Corp. of India Ltd, HLL Lifecare Ltd, Projects & Development India Ltd, and Indian Medicines Pharmaceutical Corp. Ltd. The government is in the final stages of disinvestment in IDBI Bank. An inter-ministerial group has approved the share purchase agreement detailing the terms of the sale, paving the way for the government to invite financial bids, said the second person, who asked not to be identified. "The proposal will be discussed by the core group of secretaries on disinvestment for clearance, after which financial bids are likely to be invited in September-October," the second person added. Potential suitors for the IDBI Bank stake include Fairfax India Holdings (promoter of CSB Bank), Emirates NBD, and Kotak Mahindra Bank. A finance ministry spokesperson did not respond to an emailed query on the disinvestment plans. Spokespersons for Fairfax India Holdings, Emirates NBD, and Kotak Mahindra Bank did not respond to requests for comment. Transaction timeline Both people aware of the stake sale plan said the latest timeline for the transaction looks broadly on track. The privatization plan for IDBI Bank was first announced in the Union Budget for FY22, but it has been delayed multiple times over the years. IDBI Bank shares were up over 2% at 97.44 on the BSE on Wednesday, extending this years gains to about 27%. The lenders market capitalization exceeds 1 trillion. The government stopped setting a separate target for disinvestment in FY24. The Budget estimate for miscellaneous capital receipts (MCR), which includes proceeds from equity sales and public asset management, is pegged at 47,000 crore for FY26. In FY25, these receipts were at 33,000 crore, lower than the 50,000 crore pegged in the Budget. "On the stake sales planned in other PSUs, there has been little progress so far and they could be taken up in the coming quarters, depending on market conditions. Some of the planned divestments will be taken up once the IDBI Bank sale is completed. That said, the Centre is confident of exceeding the 47,000 crore MCR target for FY26, buoyed by the IDBI transaction and other stake sales," said the first person cited above. "Divestment proceeds in FY26 are expected to reach a multi-year high." Also Read | Disinvestment: The government must take a clear stance on PSE stake sales The government's disinvestment receipts had touched a record of over 1 trillion crore in FY18, largely due to the stake sale in Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd and the listing of central public sector enterprises. The government sold its entire 51.1% stake in HPCL to Oil and Natural Gas Corp. for 36,915 crore. Disinvestment proceeds were at 84,972 crore in FY19 and 50,300 crore in FY20, according to data from the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management. (Bloomberg) -- Frances Dassault Aviation SA reiterated it wants to lead the Franco-German next-generation Future Combat Air System fighter jet, giving it sweeping oversight over the project thats caused friction with partner Airbus SE. Chief Executive Officer Eric Trappier said his company would like to pilot the program with the ability to choose subcontractors and drop any of those that dont perform. Trappier, speaking in a press conference in Paris on Tuesday, denied reports that Dassault was seeking an 80% share in the FCAS project. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will seek to quell growing friction over the fighter jet program when they meet for high-profile consultations in Berlin on Wednesday. Dassault is jointly developing the FCAS warplane with Airbus SE and Spains Indra Sistemas SA. Berlin has opposed attempts by Dassault to take a larger share of the project, and Germanys aviation lobby, BDLI, said it risks dooming the joint European fighter jet plan. In stark contrast, British defense company BAE Systems Plc is speeding ahead with the development of its next-generation Tempest fighter jet, with test aircraft on track to fly within three years. The program includes Italys Leonardo SpA, Japanese partners, Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc and missile company MBDA. Also, Swedens Saab AB program to build the Gripen D fighter jet is gaining momentum after struggling to win sales from other countries. Earlier this year, Trappier said he backed a leading role on FCAS, pointing to Dassaults experience when it pulled from a venture project in the 1980s and went solo to build the Rafale fighter jet. Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine has heightened Europes focus on territorial security, while President Donald Trump has prodded NATO allies to boost military spending, even as he raises doubts about the US commitment to the regions defense. As European governments supersize defense budgets, some are considering alternatives to American-made weapons such as Lockheed Martin Corp.s F-35. The US, China and Russia are also developing sixth-generation aircraft, which are likely to include enhanced stealth, sensor and autonomous capabilities as well as the improved ability to coordinate with other aircraft and drones. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com The protest will begin with demonstrations on July 23 at all Principal Chief Commissioner/Chief Commissioner/Principal Commissioner stations across 18 regions. "The chronic indifference of the administration towards our pressing issues has compelled us to initiate this protest," stated the JCA in a letter to CBDT Chairman dated July 21, 2025.On July 29, JAF has planned for half-day dharnas and demonstrations at all major tax offices and suspension of all reports except those for Parliamentary questions and court orders. There will also boycott of outreach programs and non-participation in official meetings, both physical and virtual and black flag demonstrations if CBDT members visit field offices.According to the JCA from 5 to 7 August, there will be extended daily dharnas and a complete halt to search and survey operations, including TDS surveys and a full-day walkout on August 8. The JCA highlighted multiple unresolved issues affecting 97% of the department's workforce. The recent Annual General Transfer (AGT) orders issued on July 16 have "aggravated prevailing discontent" by ignoring deserving cases involving genuine compassionate grounds. The long-standing practice of transferring officers back to home regions after cooling-off periods has been "abruptly discontinued."Delays in the overdue Cadre Review and Restructuring exercise continue to cause "acute stagnation" across Group C and B cadres. A committee report on career progression for non-IRS cadres reportedly ignored JCA proposals.Multiple promotion and regularisation issues remain unresolved, including regularisation of Assistant Commissioners (2024 batch) pending with UPSC for over six months, Ad-hoc promotions in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh regions, All-India Income Tax Officer seniority list preparation delays and non-financial upgradation issues for 2008-2011 batches. Personal care and grooming startup Bombay Shaving Company's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shantanu Deshpande, in a social media post, predicted that the premium skincare brand, Minimalist, will die or cease to exist in the next three to five years. Also Read | Hindustan Unilever gets CCI approval to acquire Minimalist for 2,955 crore I am willing to bet that the brand Minimalist will die (or cease to exist in any meaningful way) in the next 3-5 years, said Deshpande in his recent LinkedIn post. This view from Deshpande comes months after the premium skincare brand was sold to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) giant Hindustan Unilever (HUL) in January 2025. Why does Deshpande think Minimalist will die? Shantanu Deshpande said that the founders of the skincare brand are gone and the firm was sold for nearly 3,000 crore in Janaury 2025. He even supported the founders and said that it was the right thing to do and he would have done the same. The founders are gone. They sold for a whopping 3000 cr, made 2000 cr for themselves, 1000 cr for others, and have left. It was the right thing to do. I would have done the same, said Deshpande in his post, highlighting that the CEO who sponsored the deal is now gone. Also Read | HUL acquires skincare brand Minimalist for 2,955 crore Deshpande emphasised the risk of alienating the brand further, as the new CEO will reportedly be using a combination of focus on the core and the innovation part. A new CEO is at the helm of a struggling giant. There will be a combination of 'focus on our core' + 'innovate and build ourselves for the consumer' that will further alienate an orphaned brand, he claimed in his post. Competitive risk In his post, Shantanu Deshpande said that the skincare brand is not hard to copy and highlighted that the industry competitors will ensure the premiumisation in the space. Competition is quick to swoop in. Not hard to copy a copycat, frankly. :) Competition will ensure premiumisation - another strategic lever for new CEO - will be tough. I myself have seen 10 pitch decks in this space, said Deshpande. Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) and Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) will be key factors in the impatience, which is likely to lead to the operations ceasing to exist in the potential future. There will soon be impatience around ROAS and eventually ROCE. And the plug will be pulled at some point, invariably, he said. A brand at 400-500 cr, profitable, well run - will likely become a zombie business (there but why no one knows) with the shareholders being 3,000 cr poorer. The Bombay Shaving Company CEO also emphasised that Minimalist is under 1 per cent of the FMCG giant HUL's market capitalisation. So who even cares he said. I so so so badly hope I'm wrong, said Shantanu Deshpande in his post. By Byron Kaye SYDNEY, July 23 (Reuters) - National Australia Bank's chief executive said on Wednesday that he just had to "get through" media coverage of investor complaints about his management style and drinking at customer events. The Australian Financial Review reported on July 15 that at an investor lunch last month, some major investors in the bank had questioned whether Andrew Irvine, CEO since April 2024, should strengthen his leadership skills and curtail his drinking at events. The complaints prompted the board of the country's biggest business lender and third-largest mortgage provider to increase mentoring and provide more leadership development, the AFR said. NAB's board has said it stands by Irvine. "I'm not going to beat around the bush, especially when media is quite personal and public: it was hard for me and for my family," Irvine said in his first public remarks since the report. Speaking at a conference held by the Australian Banking Association, an industry body he chairs, Irvine said public figures should expect scrutiny. "I've just got to get through it and I plan on doing that", he said, adding that he was energised by a "noble purpose in what we do, helping people navigate their financial lives". Scrutiny of CEO conduct in Australia has been intense over the past year. The CEO of logistics software company Wisetech Richard White stepped down after allegations about aspects of his personal life, though he has since become the company's executive chair. Mineral Resources said late last year its billionaire founder, Chris Ellison, would leave within 18 months after an internal probe found he used company resources for his personal benefit and evaded taxes. (Bloomberg) -- PDD Holdings Inc.s move to switch to a Hong Kong-based auditor may indicate the Chinese e-commerce firm is preparing to apply for a second listing there, according to two analysts. The parent company of budget shopping app Temu said in a filing on Wednesday that it has tapped Hong Kong-based auditors of Ernst & Young for a review of its financial statements this year. The firm previously worked with Beijing-based Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP. Such a shift likely suggests that PDD is pursuing a listing in Hong Kong over coming months, according to Citigroup analyst Alicia Yap. If this proves to be true, we believe this could be viewed as a positive catalyst for the share price, she said. PDD did not immediately reply to an emailed request for comment outside of office hours. PDDs American depositary receipts rose as much as 5.6% to the highest in two months. The firm is among the relatively few US-listed Chinese names that have yet to list in Hong Kong, a group that also includes retailer Vipshop Holdings Ltd. and tutoring firm TAL Education Group. Companies like Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., JD.com Inc. and Baidu Inc. have already secured a second listing in Hong Kong amid persistent concerns that they could get booted off American exchanges. In April, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said all options are on the table when asked about potential delistings of Chinese companies. A second listing would potentially enable investors of Chinese firms to convert ADRs to Hong Kong shares in the event of a US delisting. Upgrading the Hong Kong listing to a primary status like what Alibaba did last year will also allow mainland buyers to tap into the stock. Felix Wang, an analyst at Hedgeye Risk Management, noted that companies preparing to list in Hong Kong often engage with local auditors to comply with regulatory requirements. That was the case for both Alibaba and JD.com when they sought Hong Kong listings, he said. One of the frustrations on PDD in the past is the company not interested in issuing a secondary IPO to expand its investor base, Wang said in a note. Is PDD changing its mind on listing in HK? It can only help with investor sentiment. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg Opinion) -- Retailing for as little as $10, Indias beloved Kolhapuri sandals are a staple in wardrobes across the sub-continent. So when luxury brand Prada SpA debuted a new type of footwear at Milan Fashion Week that bore a stark resemblance to them, it didnt take long for the fury to build online. The saga underscores how much power the South Asian giants digital tribe holds, where online outrage regularly influences public debate especially when citizens perceive their heritage is under attack. International firms eyeing one of the worlds fastest-growing markets should weigh the risks of these cultural missteps. The Italian fashion houses troubles began when it introduced its menswear collection in June. The sandals, described as leather footwear, displayed an open-toe braided pattern that was strikingly similar to Kolhapuri sandals made in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. (Your columnist has several pairs of Kolhapuris in her wardrobe.) Historically, the sandals were produced for specific communities. For farmers who worked in the fields, they were robust and able to withstand wear-and-tear; for the courtier class and nobles they were more delicate and ostentatious. In 2019, the footwear was awarded the Geographical Indication status, viewed as a mark of authenticity. (Other Indian items to have received this tag include Darjeeling tea and Alphonso mangoes.) But Prada didnt credit India for the designs, prompting a brutal social media backlash. The nationalistic sentiment whipped up by this controversy boosted sales of the traditional sandals. The countrys online community is renowned for its digital ferocity it accused the brand of cultural appropriation, and the furor forced the fashion house into damage control mode. It issued a statement saying it recognized the sandals were inspired by traditional Indian footwear. The luxury brands experience is a reminder that in India, foreign firms have to be aware of how reputational risk could affect future revenue. Internet penetration is rising, with 55% of the population connected. Social media is growing fast, too: Its estimated the worlds most populous nation is home to 462 million social media users. India is a rising global power, one international brands are keen to break into. But local and foreign firms face various challenges: Bureaucracy, shoddy infrastructure and unique consumer behaviors that include a fierce defense of Indias rich heritage. All of these factors require a tailored approach. Success in the market lies in the ability to balance local authenticity and global appeal and the willingness to learn to love and speak to India, as Francois Grouiller, chief executive officer of the luxury consultancy IndLux recently noted. Foreign brands cant afford to ignore Indias luxury market, which reached $7.74 billion in 2023, and is projected to approach $12 billion by 2028, a recent Kearney report notes. Other estimates predict the sector could more than triple by 2030, growing to upward of $85 billion. The number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals people with a net worth of at least $30 million is expected to grow by 50% by 2028. These forecasts come with the obvious caveats most notably, there is still a huge wealth gap in the country. While the 100 million wealthiest people are splurging, 400 million of their middle-class counterparts have cut back. Global economic conditions are becoming less supportive, as US President Donald Trumps sweeping tariffs fuel trade tensions and put pressure on future growth. Still, viewing consumers as a long-term opportunity rather than just a short-term play would help these firms thrive. Even more important is understanding that India is home to a diverse market with distinct needs. Some brands have grasped this already high-end jeweler Bulgari SpA offers a pricey Mangalsutra necklace inspired by a chain traditionally worn by married women tapping into the desire for luxury with home-grown sensibilities. The Italian brand is not the first and neither will it be the last to fall foul of cultural norms. Earlier this year, Gucci made the mistake of calling Bollywood star Alia Bhatts custom-made sari-lehenga (a fusion of the traditional sari with a long skirt) a gown. Another online frenzy was set off in May, when a viral social media trend was criticized for calling the dupatta a traditional South Asian shawl a Scandinavian scarf. Prada doesnt own any retail stores in India, depending instead on the super-rich diaspora and wealthy Indians who travel overseas. But the firm which has seen its shares lose about 30% since February as investors took fright at its purchase of Versace isnt taking any chances. In a conciliatory move, its now working with traditional artisans to understand the history behind the famed Kolhapuris. The luxury fashion house has learned the hard way that cultural fluency is no longer a nice to have its central to business survival. More From Bloomberg Opinion: This column reflects the personal views of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Karishma Vaswani is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asia politics with a special focus on China. Previously, she was the BBC's lead Asia presenter and worked for the BBC across Asia and South Asia for two decades. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion (Bloomberg) -- EFG International AG said a weakening dollar mostly eroded the value of its assets by 11.7 billion Swiss francs ($14.8 billion) in the first half of the year as the Swiss bank reported a 36% gain in net profit. Revenue-generating assets shrank 2% from a year earlier to 162.3 billion francs, with net new assets and favorable market performance helping cushion the foreign-exchange impact, the Zurich-based firm said in a statement on Wednesday. We are mindful of the challenges ahead, in particular the structural weakness of the US dollar and the expected interest-rate cuts, Chief Executive Officer Giorgio Pradelli said. The only way to mitigate is to become more productive, to improve the net commission income and to reduce the cost income ratio. Im afraid there is no silver bullet. With a 45% stake, Greeces Latsis family is the main shareholder of EFG, which competes with Swiss wealth managers including Julius Baer Group Ltd. and Vontobel. Earlier this year, the bank said it was buying smaller rival Cite Gestion in a deal that will add approximately 7.5 billion francs to assets under management. In May, Pradelli told Bloomberg TV that the bank has been scouting for acquisitions but sees a dearth of targets. Net income jumped to 221 million francs in the first half of 2025, bolstered by a recovery in insurance. It added net new assets of 5.4 billion francs. Shares of the bank gained as much as 5.2% on Wednesday. EFG also said it would repurchase 9 million shares by the end of July 2026, valued at around 140 million francs. The move would neutralize the dilution of new shares issued as part of variable compensation for staff and management. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg) -- The number of companies and organizations compromised by a security vulnerability in Microsoft Corp.s SharePoint servers is increasing rapidly, with the tally of victims soaring more than six-fold in a few days, according to one research firm. Hackers have breached about 400 government agencies, corporations and other groups, according to estimates from Eye Security, the Dutch cybersecurity company that identified an early wave of the attacks last week. Thats up from roughly 60 based on its previous estimate provided to Bloomberg News on Tuesday. The security firm said that most of the victims are in the US, followed by Mauritius, Jordan, South Africa and the Netherlands. The National Nuclear Security Administration, the US agency responsible for maintaining and designing the nations cache of nuclear weapons, was among those breached, Bloomberg reported earlier. The hacks are among the latest major breaches that Microsoft has blamed, at least in part, on China and come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing over global security and trade. The US has repeatedly criticized China for campaigns that have allegedly stolen government and corporate secrets over a period spanning decades. We estimate that the real number might be much higher as there can be many more hidden ways to compromise servers that do not leave traces, Eye Securitys co-owner Vaisha Bernard said in an email to Bloomberg News. This is still developing, and other opportunistic adversaries continue to exploit vulnerable servers. The organizations compromised in the SharePoint breaches include many working in government, education, and technology services, Bernard said. There were smaller numbers of victims in countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. The security flaws allow hackers to access SharePoint servers and steal keys that can let them impersonate users or services, potentially enabling deep access into compromised networks to steal confidential data. Microsoft has issued patches to fix the vulnerabilities, but researchers cautioned that hackers may have already got a foothold into many servers. Microsoft on Tuesday accused Chinese state-sponsored hackers known as Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon of being behind the attacks. Another hacking group based in China, which Microsoft calls Storm-2603, also exploited them, according to the company. The Redmond, Washington company has repeatedly blamed China for major cyberattacks. In 2021, an alleged Chinese operation compromised tens of thousands of Microsoft Exchange servers. In 2023, another alleged Chinese attack on Microsoft Exchange compromised senior US officials email accounts. A US government review later accused Microsoft of a cascade of security failures over the 2023 incident. Eugenio Benincasa, a researcher at ETH Zurichs Center for Security Studies who specializes in analyzing Chinese cyberattacks, said members of the groups identified by Microsoft had previously been indicted in the US for their alleged involvement in hacking campaigns targeting US organizations. They are well known for their extensive espionage, he said. Its likely that the SharePoint breaches are being carried out by proxy groups that work with the government rather than Chinese government agencies directly carrying out the hacking, according to Benincasa. Private hacking companies in the country sometimes participate in hacker for hire operations, he added. Now that at least three groups have reportedly exploited the same vulnerability, its plausible more could follow, he said. China is against all forms of cyberattacks and cybercrime, the Chinese Embassy in Washington said in a statement on Tuesday. We also firmly oppose smearing others without solid evidence, the embassy said. We hope that relevant parties will adopt a professional and responsible attitude when characterizing cyber incidents, basing their conclusions on sufficient evidence rather than unfounded speculation and accusations. According to Microsoft, the hacking group Linen Typhoon was first identified in 2012, and is focused on stealing intellectual property, primarily targeting organizations related to government, defense, strategic planning, and human rights. Violet Typhoon, first observed in 2015, was dedicated to espionage and primarily targeted former government and military personnel, non-governmental organizations, as well as media and education sectors in the US, Europe, and East Asia. The hackers have also used the SharePoint flaws to break into systems belonging to the US Education Department, Floridas Department of Revenue and the Rhode Island General Assembly, Bloomberg previously reported. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Packaged food and beverage maker Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) on Wednesday said that coffee prices are currently on a downward trajectory, though ongoing volatility necessitates close monitoring following a period of significant surge. In the March quarter, TCPL had noted that prices of Arabica coffee were 97% higher year-on-year, while Robusta coffee prices were up 56%. Prices of Arabica and Robusta types of coffee beanshave moderated significantly, yet remain volatile, according to the company's investor presentation released Wednesday. Also Read | Cocoa, coffee recover but post weekly losses amid demand woes The issue with falling coffee prices is your trailing inventory, that is the whole catch, because you're sitting with inventory and selling it at a lower price. It will stabilize at a point in time. We are probably close to the bottom on the margins front. We are fairly well hedged in coffee, we've taken a small charge this quarter on the mark to market. We'll have to see one more quarter, and of course it largely depends on where the coffee prices finally settle. If they are roundabout where they are currently, we'll see probably one more quarter of pain, and then we should get back to the historical margins that we had in business, Sunil DSouza, Managing Director and chief executive officer of Tata Consumer Products said during the companys post-earnings call on Wednesday evening. Despite the global price drop impacting profitability, TCPL's India coffee business reported revenue growth of 67% on the back of a 33% increase in volumes. The company sells coffee under brands such as Tata Coffee Grand, Eight O'Clock Coffee, Sonnets by Tata Coffee and Tata Coffee Gold, competing with players like Nestle India and Hindustan Unilever in the packaged coffee market. The maker of Tata Salt and Tata Tea reported a 15% jump in quarterly net profit, reaching 332 crore, up from 289.25 crore in the corresponding period last year. Consolidated revenue for the three months ended 30 June grew 10% year-on-year to 4,779 crore. Also Read | The fine art of making Vietnamese coffee The India branded business recorded a 6.8% volume growth, with the core India business, encompassing both tea and salt, reporting double-digit growth. During the quarter, we recorded double-digit growth in the core India business across both tea and salt, backed by volume growth. Tata Sampann continued its strong trajectory, with new launches & innovations performing well. However, unfavourable weather impacted volume growth in the ready-to-drink business. While transitory issues impacted growth in Capital Foods and Organic India, our focus now turns to delivering on our aspirations in these businesses through ramping up advertising, innovation and distribution expansion, DSouza said. On the tea front, where the company sells brands like Tata Tea and Tetley, TCPL stated that prices remain favourable, though the outlook is cautiously optimistic. According to the companys investor presentation, North India tea prices are moderately lower compared to the same period last year due to robust crop supply in the region, while South India tea prices continued to soften. Consolidated Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) for the June quarter declined by 8%, primarily attributed to higher tea costs in India and coffee price corrections in the non-branded segment. TCPL also has a large overseas business. It also sells staples and breakfast cereals. If you look at the crop itself, I think we are already ahead in North India compared to last year... Now, we do expect this year to be normal, even the IMD forecast a normal rainfall season, and if that happens, there's no reason for us not to go back to the tea cropping levels of 2023, and therefore the pricing to start unwinding, he said. Meanwhile, the company's cafe chain business under Starbucks reported positive same-store sales growth during the quarter, with overall revenue for the segment growing 6%. Same-store sales growth was positive, except during May when regional geopolitical tensions flared up and impacted store operating hours in specific geographies. Starbucks operates 485 stores in India. (Bloomberg) -- UBS Group AG is reviewing the role of six relationship managers who sold complex currency derivatives to Swiss clients who didnt fully understand the risk, according to people familiar with the matter. Some of the bankers have already departed the bank, said one of the people, who like the others asked for anonymity to discuss the private information. The situation of the remaining advisers is still being assessed, the people said. We have completed a review of this matter and determined that a very small number of clients in a few locations in Switzerland experienced unexpected effects from the US tariff-related market volatility in April 2025, a spokesperson for UBS said. From the outset we have taken this matter seriously and have looked at each client case individually, the spokesperson said, declining to comment on the fate of the advisers. UBS is trying to put the issue to rest after the losses from the contracts caused an uproar in Switzerland. It has made what it called goodwill payments to clients it views as not having fully understood the risks associated with the complex investment products. The banks swift response comes at a delicate time for its relations with Swiss politicians. It is lobbying to mitigate the Swiss governments proposal for more stringent capital requirements, a move that it has called extreme. The Financial Times reported earlier this month that UBS made about 100 payments to Swiss customers who suffered losses from the contracts. The products sold by the Swiss bank were tailored to professional and high-risk investors, who agreed to regularly exchange dollars for Swiss francs at a fixed rate, as long as the rate stayed within certain bounds, Reuters previously reported. The wild moves in April left clients with losses that in some cases exceeded the amount invested, lawyers who represent affected clients told Bloomberg News. Some of those clients have yet to have their situation discussed with the bank. The Swiss Association for the Protection of Investors has said that in several of the cases there were significant losses or even margin calls. Private clients with medium to large assets were particularly affected, including older people without specialist knowledge, the group said. Most of those have reached an agreement with UBS, General Secretary Arik Roeschke told Bloomberg. He said that while he heard of UBS clients being compensated for 80%-90% of their losses, the terms remain unclear because clients signed a non-disclosure agreement as part of the settlement. One of the people familiar said the payments are determined on a case-by-case basis and often land around the 50%-70% range. (Adds political context in sixth paragraph.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com American short-seller Viceroy Research on Wednesday said that the promoters of the Vedanta Group were siphoning margins from listed group company Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) by supplying commodity goods to it at inflated prices on an exclusive basis. It alleged that Minova Runaya Pvt. Ltd (MRPL), a 49% promoter-owned entity, has an exclusive contract with HZL for the supply of products including resin capsules, rock bolting systems and wire mesh. Used in mining, these products are typically commoditized and low-margin, but MRPL was selling them at a 30% mark-up to HZL, the short-seller alleged, adding the company does little manufacturing itself. HZL was MRPLs only customer, Viceroy added. This company (MRPL) has only one purpose, to buy commoditized products, slap a 30% markup on them, and then sell them to a captured HZL, the short-seller said in its note, adding that there was more to come. Also Read: Vedanta rejects Viceroy Research's 2,500 crore loan routing claim Between FY21 and FY24, Minova Runaya made an aggregate revenue of 553 crore with a profit of 92 crore, the short-seller disclosed citing the companys regulatory filings. Vedanta, HZL deny charges Vedanta has denied all allegations. The said short sellers have consistently shared extremely ill-informed reports with misleading information, a Hindustan Zinc spokesperson said. The latest allegations disregard the stringent governance protocols followed by Hindustan Zinc, the spokesperson said. Earlier, former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud said in a legal opinion to Vedanta that Viceroy's report lacked credibility and is based on dubious credentials. He further said the report contains serious, reputationally damaging allegations. Shares of Vedanta and HZL had fallen following the publication of Viceroy's first report on 9 July, but have since recovered and not reacted to its subsequent eight reports. Hindustan Zinc's shares gained 0.82% to close at 446.9 on the BSE on Wednesday. Vedanta Ltd's shares settled 1.12% higher at 455.6. The benchmark Sensex closed 0.66% higher. Viceroy Research has a short position of undisclosed size on the debt of London-based group holding company Vedanta Resources. MRPLs ownership, contract terms While the Vedanta Group holds a 49% stake in MRPL, the remaining 51% stake in the company is held by Minova Minetek, which is a Hyderabad-based manufacturer of mining, quarrying and construction equipment, as per private company data platform Tracxn. Also Read: Short-seller Viceroy accuses Vedanta promoters of hidden stake via welfare trust MRPL has a long-term sales contract with HZL, which provides it with strong revenue visibility, Crisil Ratings noted in November 2024, when it rated HZLs long-term debt as A- with a stable outlook. As per the contract, HZL must procure its entire ground support product requirement from MRPL. This ensures healthy utilisation for the manufacturing capacities of MRPL, the rating agency had noted. MRPL was onboarded by Hindustan Zinc as a reliable supplier for ground support after undergoing due screening processes and approvals from the Audit Committee and Board, as per the company spokesperson. The company has developed solutions that meet the unique specifications and standards of Hindustan Zincs underground mines, they said. Transactions with MRPL were supported by benchmarking by independent firms, they said. Red flags in MRPLs books Regarding the lack of MRPL's manufacturing capabilities, Viceroy noted that the company's accounts acknowledge that it manufactured nothing until at least FY24. "Even then, the only product it manufactured was wire mesh, a product so simple and cheap that a fully automated line can be set up for under 1 crore, the short-seller said. Top representatives from the European Union will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other key leaders Thursday, their first in-person summit since 2023 thats exposing a divide between the bloc and Beijing just months after earlier signs of a possible detente. Tensions spanning trade to the war in Ukraine are casting a pall over an event that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-EU diplomatic ties. The meeting has been cut short from two days to one at Beijings request, Bloomberg News has reported, with the venue changed from Brussels to the Chinese capital after Xi refused to travel to Europe for the talks. The Chinese leader as well as Premier Li Qiang will meet throughout the day with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the head of the European Council, Antonio Costa, according to an EU official. The meeting follows the EUs summit with Japan held in Tokyo Wednesday. While there are no plans to issue a joint communique, the EU intends to release a statement listing the main messages it delivered, according to people familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The tensions on display this week contrast with hope at the height of the trade war unleashed by Donald Trump for China to repair ties with the EU. Back then, Beijing appeared to be positioning itself as a more reliable partner as Trump alienated the bloc. Now, deep disagreements are once again marring the relationship. Tensions flared in April with Beijings decision to impose export controls on rare earth magnets, which shook European car companies and other sectors. Brussels also takes issue with what it considers as Beijings support for Moscow. The EU on Friday sanctioned two Chinese banks and five China-based companies as part of its latest measures against Russia. Trade ties are another source of frustration. The Asian nations goods trade surplus reached almost $143 billion in the first half of this year, a record for any six-month period, according to data released last week. The EU inflamed trade tensions when it imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles last year in a bid to ward off a flood of cheap imports. In response, China launched anti-dumping probes into European brandy, dairy and pork. With assistance from Iain Rogers and Jorge Valero. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. AI-driven B2B messaging platform Gupshup has raised $60 million (about 518 crore) in a new funding round, comprising a mix of equity and debt financing, as it gears up for a public market debut in the next 12 to 24 months. The new round saw participation from investors including Globespan Capital Partners and EvolutionX Debt Capital, the latter of which has joined Gupshups cap table for the first time. The funds will be split equally between working capital and growth initiatives. As a B2B company, Gupshup often sees a lag between signing on customers and receiving payments for services renderedsometimes with a delay of a few monthsmaking working capital crucial. Growth capital helps us move fast when we spot an opportunity. Even if returns take a quarter or two, it's worth it," said Beerud Sheth, founder and CEO of Gupshup, in an interview with Mint. Also read: Beyond the layoffs: Startup hiring cools as AI, money worries sweep businesses IPO in the works The company plans to file for an initial public offering within the next 12 years and is already in talks with bankers, lawyers, and accountants. It has also strengthened governance structures, adding three independent directors to its board, including Lorrie Norrington last year. The company is currently domiciled in the US with an India entity. Sheth sees India as an attractive proposition and is evaluating a shift back to the country. We have substantial revenues in India and a lot of customers. We're a well known brand here and a lot of investors here understand how WhatsApp works. Therefore, it could be an attractive listing. We're optimising for investor understanding," said Sheth. India currently accounts for about 70% of Gupshups revenue, with the rest coming from markets like the Middle East, Brazil, Mexico, and Southeast Asia. Also read: Mint Explainer: Why startups will continue to be plagued by moonlighting Valuation resets In 2021, Gupshup raised $340 million from the likes of Tiger Global, Fidelity, Malabar Investments, and others, pushing its valuation past $1 billion. The company used those funds to pursue acquisitions and ramp up R&D between 2021 and 2022. It acquired five companies between September 2021 and June 2022 including Dotgo, a communications-platform-as-a-service and customer engagement platform; AskSid, an AI-based conversational platform; and Active.ai, a provider of omnichannel conversational engagement solutions. However, its worth pointing out that valuations have come off their peaks for several startups since 2021-22, and Gupshup is no different. Fidelity, which invested $16.2 million during the unicorn valuation round has slashed the value of its own stake by over 65% since it made the investment. According to the asset management company, Gupshup is now worth $486 million, as per its disclosure in December 2024, TechCrunch reported. Meanwhile, Tracxn data shows that as of August 2024, the company is valued at $500 million. Asked whether the latest round reflected an updated valuation, Sheth said, I think there's no valuation sort of implied by this round. Our revenues have more than tripled from our last funding round and our profitability has grown substantially. When you do a priced equity round, then valuations are different." Gupshup's India entity revenue from operations in FY23 stood at 1,618.6 crore, a 42% increase over the previous fiscal, according to Tracxn data. Profit and Ebitda also went up to 49.2 crore and 92.9 crore, a 23% and 31% increase respectively. Also read: What if AI didnt need the internet? Indian semiconductor startups have an answer The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed a plea filed by Kalanithi Maran and KAL Airways challenging a Delhi High Court order that had rejected their claim seeking 1,323 crore in damages from SpiceJet. A bench of Justices P. S. Narasimha and Atul S. Chandurkar refused to interfere with the high courts decision. SpiceJet shares shot up nearly 7% in noon trading post the apex court's decision, and we at 40.71 apiece on BSE. The Sensex was up 0.42%. Maran and KAL Airways had challenged the Delhi High Courts 23 May order that had dismissed their appeals due to delays. The division bench of Justices C. Hari Shankar and Ajay Digpaul had refused to condone a 55-day delay in filing and a 226-day delay in re-filing their appeals, calling their conduct a calculated gamble and accusing them of deliberately concealing information from the court and SpiceJet. Condonation of delay refers to seeking the courts permission to file a case or appeal after the legal deadline has lapsed. Under the Limitation Act, parties typically have 90 days to file an appeal from a single judges decision to a division bench. If they miss this deadline, they must explain the delay to seek condonation, which the Delhi High Court did not accept in this case. In 2015, Maran and KAL Airways transferred their entire stake in SpiceJet to Ajay Singh for a nominal 2 amid a financial crisis that had nearly shut the airline. As part of the deal, Singh, who became SpiceJet's chairman and managing director, took over liabilities worth 1,500 crore. Maran and KAL Airways had also paid 679 crore to SpiceJet for issuing convertible warrants and preference shares. However, these were never issued under Singhs management, prompting Maran to approach the Delhi High Court in 2017 seeking a refund. Arbitration award and court challenges In July 2018, an arbitration panel of three retired Supreme Court judges rejected Marans claim for 1,323 crore in damages but ordered a refund of 579 crore plus interest. Both sides challenged parts of this award under the Arbitration Act in the Delhi High Court. In 2023, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh upheld the arbitral award, directing SpiceJet and Singh to refund 308 crore for warrants and 270 crore for preference shares, along with applicable interest. SpiceJet challenged this ruling before a division bench. In May 2024, the division bench granted relief to SpiceJet by remanding the case to the single judge for fresh consideration, putting the 270 crore refund on hold. Maran and KAL Airways approached the Supreme Court against this remand decision, but their plea was dismissed in July 2024. They then refiled their long-pending appeals against the single judges 2023 order, leading to the high court division benchs May 2025 dismissal due to delays. In a stock exchange filing on 26 May, SpiceJet welcomed the high courts decision. New Delhi: Formal jobs and self-employment are on the rise in India while the youth unemployment is below the global average, the statistics ministry said on Wednesday. The ministry stated that formal employment is rising steadily, with nearly 13 million net subscribers for provident fund getting added in FY25 under the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), more than double the number in FY19. Since September 2017, more than 77.3 million net subscribers have joined, including nearly 2 million in April 2025 alone indicating a strengthened formal workforce and greater social protection coverage, the ministry stated. A structural shift is also underway: Periodic Labour Force Survey data indicates that self-employment increased from 52.2% to 58.4%, while casual labour declined from 24.9% to 19.8%, the ministry said, adding that this reflects a move toward entrepreneurial, autonomous livelihoods, supported by government initiatives. The ministry also said Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 years and above has increased from 49.8% in 201718 to 60.1% in 202324. During the same period, the worker-population ratio (WPR) rose from 46.8% to 58.2%, while the unemployment rate declined sharply from 6% to 3.2%. These indicators suggest greater absorption of the workforce into productive employment. Notably, the youth unemployment rate fell from 17.8% to 10.2%, which is lower than the global youth unemployment rate of 13.3% as per International Labour Organisations World Employment and Social Outlook 2024, the ministry stated. The ministry cited Reserve Bank of Indias database to say total employment in the country increased from 475 million in 201718 to 643 million in 202324an addition of 168 million jobs over six years. The ministry also said, quoting PLFS estimates, that the average daily wage for casual labourers (excluding in public works) increased from 294 in JulySeptember 2017 to 433 in AprilJune 2024. The average monthly earnings of regular salaried employees rose from 16,538 to 21,103 during the same period. These upward trends demonstrate not only increased income levels but also enhanced job stability and quality, the ministry said. The recent rise in agricultural employment is linked to strengthened rural activity and policy support, including 122.5 crore in funding for agri-startupsdriving innovation and sustainability in the sectorit said. Indias demographic dividend is being actively cultivated through targeted initiatives, which aim to bridge the gap between education and employment, the ministry said. The economy is also witnessing job growth in emerging sectors such as startups, global capability centres (GCCs), digital services and the gig economy, creating new and diverse employment opportunities for the youth, it added. With China enforcing stringent controls on rare earth magnet exports, India has intensified its global outreach to safeguard the critical mineral supply chains, the government told Parliament on Wednesday. The government has initiated bilateral talks with Brazil and the Dominican Republic, and has also deepened engagement with multilateral platforms to build cooperation around rare earth elements and critical mineral security, Jitendra Singh, minister of state (independent charge) for science and technology, and the department of atomic energy, said. Apart from other portfolios, Singh also holds charge of the ministry of earth sciences. The union ministry of mines is engaged in these inter-governmental talks to sign memorandums of understanding, while the ministry of external affairs has tapped into relevant stakeholders to alleviate challenges arising from China's stranglehold over rare earth magnets, the minister's statement said. Rare earth magnets, essential to sectors like defence, electronics, clean mobility and renewable energy, have become a focal point of global strategic competition, with China holding a dominant position in their processing and trade. India has exported 18 tonnes of rare earth minerals over the last decade, the minister's written reply to Parliament said. It said India has approximately 7.23 million tonnes of rare earth oxides, which are processed to make magnets used in key strategic sectors such as defence, electronics, renewable energy, and clean mobility. "Additionally, Geological Survey of India (GSI) has augmented 482.6 Mt resources of REE (rare earth elements) ore at various cut-off grades in 34 exploration projects," the government said. Also Read | India may ease auto local norms amid magnet supply crisis Indias push for rare earths It said the mines ministry has initiated talks with mineral-rich nations such as Australia, Argentina, Zambia, Peru, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Cote DIvoire as well as international organizations, such as the International Energy Agency (IEA). The ministry is also engaging with platforms such as the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), and the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). India's engagement with multilateral platforms is largely dependent on the US. The MSP is a US-led alliance of 14 countries, including India, and was set up in 2022 to secure critical mineral supply chains by reducing dependence on any one particular country. The IPEF is a similar US-led alliance of 14 countries, focusing on collaborative policies on trade, supply chains, clean energy, and decarbonisation. The iCET is a bilateral agreement between India and the US for collaboration in technology, including artificial intelligence and semiconductors. "Critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, titanium, rare earth elements, etc., are demand intensive due to their strategic uses in various sectors, viz., electric vehicles, renewable energy and defence," the government said. "In case of any further development in rare earth mineral exports to Japan, efforts shall be undertaken to mitigate the disruptions," the government statement said. India had suspended its rare earth mineral export to Japan after China halted export of magnets made of the same material, according to a Reuters report on 15 June, citing unnamed sources. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom to further strengthen India-UK bilateral relations from July 23-24. PM Modi is visiting the UK on an invitation from his counterpart Keir Starmer, the Ministry of External Affairs said. During his two-day visit to the UK, PM Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer are likely to sign the historic free trade agreement between India and Britain that was announced earlier in May. Trade minister Piyush Goyal will accompany Modi for the formal signing, a commerce ministry official was quoted as saying by Reuters. Here is all you need to know about the India-UK FTA. What is the India-UK FTA? India signed a historic free trade agreement with the UK on May 6 this year, closing talks and finalising deals that started in 2022. The ambitious FTA is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade, generate new avenues for employment, raise living standards, and improve the overall well-being of citizens in India and UK, the PMO had said in May. Talks over a free trade deal between India and Britain were initially launched in January 2022. However, negotiations were irregular given that Britain had four prime ministers in the last three years. Also Read | Asean stonewalling progress of FTA review talks with India: Official In such free trade agreements, two countries either eliminate or significantly reduce customs duties on most items traded between them. Norms for promoting trade in services and bilateral investments are also eased in these agreements. Free trade agreements are generally signed by commerce ministers of two countries and come into effect once the signing and ratification by both countries are done. What deals are on the pipeline? The India-UK FTA has a target to double trade between the two economies to $120 billion by 2030. The deal aims to increase bilateral trade by a further $40 billion by 2040. The India-UK pact aims to eliminate duties on labour-intensive Indian exports such as leather, footwear and clothing, while easing imports of UK products like whisky and cars. UK products that are sold around the world will benefit from cut tariffs into India. This includes tariff reductions on products such as cosmetics, whiskies, as well as on other agri-food products such as gin, soft drinks, and lamb, the UK government said in a statement. The India-UK FTA will also make it easier for UK businesses to trade with and in the Indian market. Faster processing at customs, reductions in technical barriers to trade, agreements to recognise and facilitate digital systems and paperless trade, and reaffirmations of standards in areas like sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) will all contribute to increased trade openness and facilitation while protecting UK standards and providing greater certainty for exporters, as per the statement. Washington DC [US], July 23 (ANI): Following her first nomination at Emmy Awards and Golden Globe 2025, for her performance in HBO's 'The Penguin', Cristin Milioti has inked a deal to star in 'Buddy', directed by Casper Kelly, reported Deadline. The film has been described as a horror movie written by Kelly and Jaime King. The makers have not yet revealed the details of the plot. Drawing appreciation for her role of Sofia Falcone in 'The Penguin,' Milioti has also recently been seen reprising her role as Nanette Cole in Black Mirror's 'USS Callister: Into Infinity.' Recently, she also joined the FX pilot 'Seven Sisters', where she stars opposite Elizabeth Olsen, as reported by Deadline. Meanwhile, Cristin Milioti has joined the cast of Netflix's animated feature 'In Your Dreams'. 'The Penguin' actress onboards the cast of Simu Liu and Craig Robinson, as well as Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, Elias Janssen, Gia Carides, Omid Djalili, SungWon Cho and Zachary Noah Piser, as per Variety. Set to be released later this year, 'In Your Dreams' follows Stevie and her brother, Elliot, as they journey into the absurd landscape of their own dreams. If the siblings can withstand a snarky stuffed giraffe, zombie breakfast foods and the queen of nightmares, the Sandman will grant them their ultimate dream come true...the perfect family, as reported by Variety. Alexander Woo co-wrote the story with Erik Benson and Stanley Moore and made his animated feature directorial debut with this film. Woo said, "Cristin is an EGOT-level talent. She can sing. She can act. I haven't seen her dance, but I'm sure she could give Ginger Rogers a run for her money. You believe every performance Cristin gives and that's every director's dream come true," as quoted by Deadline. After Madhya Pradesh Chief Mohan Yadav, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta declared Anupam Kher's film 'Tanvi The Great' tax-free, praising its narrative of inclusion. In a post on X, CM Rekha Gupta wrote, I am pleased to share that the Delhi Government has declared the film 'Tanvi the Great' tax-free in the state. With an impactful narrative of inclusion, the film is an inspiring story of a young, 'special' girl-Tanvi, who is determined to achieve her dreams against all odds. She further noted, Tanvi's story is emotional and inspirational. We are committed to promote films that strengthens the spirit of Rashtra Seva, ignites patriotism, and awakens the conscience of the nation. Best wishes to the entire team of the film. Gupta also posted a photo with Kher and actress Shubhangi Dutt from the recent film screening in the national capital. Film Tanvi made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh On Monday, CM Mohan Yadav declared the film tax-free in Madhya Pradesh. "Today, I had the opportunity to watch the film *Tanvi The Great* with the renowned actor and director Shri @AnupamPKher ji in Bhopal. I announce that the film will be made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh," he wrote in a post on X. The announcement came after actor and director Anupam Kher met Yadav. Following their meeting and after watching the film together, Yadav declared it would be made tax-free in the state. He described it as a "touching" film dedicated to the "struggle, determination, and dreams of an autistic girl." An official informed PTI that the film's lead actor, Shubhangi Dutt, and young artist Viraj Aggarwal were also there. CM Yadav praised Kher for creating a "film with a meaningful purpose." Additionally, Kher gifted his book "Different But No Less" to the CM during the event. About Tanvi The film, which is centred on the Indian Army and autism, narrates the story of a young girl living with her mother and grandfather. Motivated by her late father, she is committed to joining the armed forces. Apart from Shubhangi Dutt and Viraj Aggarwal, the star cast also includes Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Karan Tacker, Arvind Swami, Nasser, and British actor Iain Glen. Washington DC [US], July 23 (ANI): 'The Night Agent' actress Arienne Mandi has joined the cast of 'Chicago PD' as a series regular for Season 13, reported Deadline. According to Deadline, Mandi will play Chicago P.D. officer Naomi Kerr. She is a former soldier and military contractor who is said to thrive in dangerous situations. The actress character in the series is described as a fearless outsider who keeps her cards close to the vest. Names and character descriptions could be changed at any stage of production, reported Deadline. Chicago P.D. follows the men and women of the Chicago Police Department's elite Intelligence Unit, combatting the city's most heinous offences, which include organised crime, drug trafficking, high-profile murders and beyond. According to Deadline, Naomi arrives at a particularly chaotic time for the team, following the murder of Deputy Chief Charlie Reid (Shawn Hatosy), orchestrated by Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe). Although Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) and Officer Dante Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) are off the hook for the latter's affair with his CI and the former covering it up, there's no telling what the fallout will be just yet. LaRoyce Hawkins and Patrick Flueger also star in this thriller series. Meanwhile, Toya Turner has exited the NBC police procedural as Kiana Cook and will not appear in Season 13. "I'm grateful for the time I had bringing Kiana to life. Thank you to everyone who welcomed me so warmly," said Toya Turner as quoted by Deadline. Mandi currently stars in Season 2 of Netflix's 'The Night Agent'. She co-stars in Guy Nattiv's award-winning feature 'Tatami', which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Washington, US automakers are concerned about President Donald Trump's agreement to tariff Japanese vehicles at 15%, saying they will face steeper import taxes on steel, aluminum and parts than their competitors. We need to review all the details of the agreement, but this is a deal that will charge lower tariffs on Japanese autos with no US content, said Matt Blunt, president of the American Automotive Policy Council, which represents the Big 3 American automakers, General Motors, Ford and Jeep-maker Stellantis. Blunt said in an interview the US companies and workers definitely are at a disadvantage because they face a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum and a 25% tariff on parts and finished vehicles, with some exceptions for products covered under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement that went into effect in 2020. The domestic automaker reaction reveals the challenge of enforcing policies across the world economy, showing that for all of Trump's promises there can be genuine tradeoffs from policy choices that risk serious blowback in politically important states such as Michigan and Wisconsin, where automaking is both a source of income and of identity. Trump portrayed the trade framework as a major win after announcing it on Tuesday, saying it would add hundreds of thousands of jobs to the US economy and open the Japanese economy in ways that could close a persistent trade imbalance. The agreement includes a 15% tariff that replaces the 25% import tax the Republican president had threatened to charge starting on Aug 1. Japan would also put together $550 billion to invest in US projects, the White House said. The framework with Japan will remove regulations that prevent American vehicles from being sold in that country, the White House has said, adding that it would be possible for vehicles built in Detroit to be shipped directly to Japan and ready to be sold. But Blunt said that foreign auto producers, including the US, Europe and South Korea, have just a 6% share in Japan, raising scepticism that simply having the open market that the Trump administration says will exist in that country will be sufficient. Tough nut to crack, and I'd be very surprised if we see any meaningful market penetration in Japan, Blunt said. Major Japanese automakers Toyota, Honda and Nissan did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the trade framework, nor did Autos Drive America or the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, organisations that also represent the industry. There is the possibility that the Japanese framework would give automakers and other countries grounds for pushing for changes in the Trump administration's tariffs regime. The president has previously said that flexibility in import tax negotiations is something he values. The USMCA is up for review next year. Ford, GM and Stellantis do have every right to be upset, said Sam Fiorani, vice president at consultancy AutoForecast Solutions. But Honda, Toyota, and Nissan still import vehicles from Mexico and Canada, where the current levels of tariffs can be higher than those applied to Japanese imports. Most of the high-volume models from Japanese brands are already produced in North America. Fiorani noted that among the few exceptions are the Toyota 4Runner, the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester, but most of the other imports fill niches that are too small to warrant production in the US. There will be negotiations between the US and Canada and Mexico, and it will probably result in tariffs no higher than 15%, Fiorani added, but nobody seems to be in a hurry to negotiate around the last Trump administration's free trade agreement. SCY SCY The bodys internal clock gets out of sync with the local time when we cross time zones, leading to jet lag. This wasnt the birthday greeting I had in mind: a 6 a.m. alarm blaring in my ear. I had taken the day off for a milestone birthday (lets not put a number on it) but here I was, bleary-eyed and grumpy, thanks to a jet-lag app I was testing for a family trip to Greece the following day. Sleeping in is one of my favorite pastimes. But when a friend traveled to India on a business trip with no jet lag after using an app, I figured it was worth a try. Jet lag is temporary but real. When we cross time zones, our circadian rhythmthe bodys internal clock, which regulates just about every function in our bodiesgets out of sync with the local time. That can lead to fatigue, insomnia, headaches and brain fog. Though it poses no serious health risks, jet lag can hamper, or ruin, a vacation or business trip. So hacks from glasses to light boxes to supplements abound. Jet lag is worse heading east than west. Our internal clocks adjust about an hour a day, so transitioning to Greek time, a seven-hour difference, can take a week. Not ideal when your trip is only eight days. But I wasnt the only body clock under consideration. I was traveling with a teenager who regularly stays up past 1 a.m. and a tween who cant sleep past 8 a.m. My husband, who wakes up an hour earlier than me, tried the app, too. Age differences and jet lag arent well studied, but Dr. Jamie Zeitzer, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, says young kids often adjust faster. Teens may, too, for a different reason. Theyre just so tired they can sleep whenever," he says. Sleep routine There are a number of apps that try to tackle jet lag. For example, StopJetLag gives light, sleep, meal and activity advice starting three days before travel. It costs $78 a trip. Flykitt, which is $99 for the first trip, includes five supplements, blue-light blocking glasses and sleep and eating advice. It revolves around the principle that pressure changes during flights can trigger inflammation for several days. I settled on an app called Timeshifter because the first trip was free and it focused on light exposure, with optional melatonin and caffeinetwo tools I already use. Mickey Beyer-Clausen, the CEO of Timeshifter, and chief scientist Steven Lockley say the app shifts your circadian clock three to four hours a day. So on a trip from New York to Athens with a seven-hour difference, I should be able to shift in 1.5 to two days. Preparations for the trip started a few days in advance. I logged my sleep habits (11 p.m. to 7 a.m.) and enthusiastically signed on to using caffeine and melatonin. Day one was easy. It was pretty much my normal schedule but then came an alert: Avoid light from 9 to 10 p.m. And ruminate over midlife in the dark? Instead, I chose to read on my Kindle. Bad call. According to Timeshifter it would have been better to watch TV or read a book in a dimly lighted room wearing sunglasses. The next day, my birthday, started with a 6 a.m. wake-up and an unusually early bed time: 9 p.m. When a friend showed up with a surprise cake just before then we were thrown off. The next day was worse: a 5 a.m. wake-up for me, 4 a.m. for my husband. We persevered. I only had two hours for caffeine and guzzled it. By the time my 17-year-old son woke hours later, I snapped at him to finish packing. He barked back, Whats the point of this app if youre just jet lagged before the trip? Just be tired and youll sleep on the plane." Did he have a point? In the air Once on the plane, I was exhausted but the app didnt have me sleeping for another two hours. I dozed for maybe an hour. The rest was restless half-sleep with constant peeks at the flight map and time. Thats fine, says Lockley, who formerly worked as a sleep researcher at Harvard Medical School. More important than sleeping, is avoiding light. Its not about sleep, its about the circadian clock," he says. Its the dark that matters," he adds. Health columnist Sumathi Reddy with her family on a trip to Greece. We landed in Athens at 6 a.m., caught a connecting flight, and by 2 p.m. were on Milos. The Timeshifter alerts popping up were still on New York Time so we ignored them (a temporary kink Beyer-Clausen says was fixed). As tempted as we were to nap, the Aegean Sea lured us in for a swim. Greeks eat late, so dinner was at 8 p.m. Timeshifter said bedtime was 11 p.m. By the time we got back at 10 p.m. I could barely keep my eyes open. The app called for a 7 a.m. wake-up but I was on vacation! We set the alarm for 9. (TimeShifter says its adding a feature for a vacation sleeping pattern.) We all slept through the night. From there, the plan was simple: sunshine and caffeine in the morning; limited light before bed; and bed time pushing 11 p.m. When the shift to New York began a few days later, calling for limited light over breakfast, I decided to mostly ignore the recommendations. A four-hour delay on the flight home threw everything off anyway. I paid a price for the neglect: The workweek was a blur of nodding off at my desk, falling asleep by 9 p.m., and waking up before dawn. So was the pre-trip prepearly morning birthday wake-up and allworth it? I think so. I may have transformed into a grumpy, morning person but the payoff was a postcard-perfect Greek island vacation. Im ready to do it again in September for a girls trip to Spain. Write to Sumathi Reddy at Sumathi.Reddy@wsj.com Morgan Stanley is being probed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority over whether the Wall Street giant properly vetted its clients for money-laundering risks. The probe by Wall Streets self-regulator focuses on the firms clients, risk ranking and other practices from October 2021 through September 2024, according to people familiar with the matter. It adds to the possible fines Morgan Stanley is already facing from federal investigations into its anti-money-laundering practices. Finra has been asking for information on U.S. and international clients in Morgan Stanleys sprawling wealth-management business and the division that houses its trading desks, the people said. One of Finras requests has been for information on politically exposed clients, including senior foreign political figures, their relatives or close associates, and the Morgan Stanley representatives who were assigned to those accounts. The probe is part of a deep dive by Finra, which isnt a government agency but is responsible under federal law for supervising broker-dealers and has the power to fine members that are in violation of its rules. Morgan Stanley has been working to fix its client-screening practices after the Federal Reserve for years flagged concerns about risk-management controls in the firms wealth-management unit. The cleanup efforts have included shutting down thousands of accounts, pulling back from Venezuela and other Latin American countries, and expanding its restrictions on the types of clients it is willing to onboard, The Wall Street Journal previously reported. The Journal in November reported on widespread breakdowns in Morgan Stanleys due diligence reviews and its wooing of clients from countries known for financial corruption and drug trafficking. Thousands of accounts in its wealth-management unit displayed high-risk characteristics for money laundering, tax evasion or other potentially illegal behavior, according to a 2023 bank document viewed by the Journal. A Morgan Stanley spokesman said the company has made substantial investments in its anti-money-laundering and other client-vetting programs over the past several years that are benefiting its business. Like all large banks, he said, Morgan Stanley is subject to routine, recurring and often overlapping exams by several regulators. The existence of these supervisory exams and the back and forth with our regulators is not unique to Morgan Stanley, nor is it an indication of an issue in our business or controls," the spokesman said. Finra is focused on the risk profiles of clients on whose behalf Morgan Stanley handled or traded securities, the people said. That has included questions about clients on its digital-trading platform E*Trade, its private bank and its institutional securities group that trades on behalf of large clients. Morgan Stanley has received at least six requests from Finra for large troves of data, including one in recent weeks. Finra has also asked for organizational charts and reporting lines in the firms anti-money-laundering, financial-crimes and sanctions teams. Some employees voiced concerns inside Morgan Stanley about the completeness and accuracy of the information being provided to Finra, the people said. The firm provided additional data after the regulator found some of the banks responses lacking. The Justice Department and the Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network have also been investigating the banks anti-money-laundering practices, the Journal previously reported. Those probes have focused on its wealth-management department, which is largely made up of E*Trade and financial advisers. At least some of the probes have sought data on foreign politicians or people connected to them. Some of the federal probes have found Morgan Stanley took on and kept clients despite easy-to-spot signs of risk, such as news reports alleging they were involved in illegal activities, according to people familiar with the matter. Morgan Stanley has received some good news from the Fed: The regulator gave a clean bill of health to how E*Trade and the deposit-taking arms of the digital-trading platform and Morgan Stanley vet the identity of new customers, according to some of the people. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has found that thousands of wealth management accounts didnt undergo sufficient enhanced due diligence on a recurring basis, some of the people said. Accounts that undergo enhanced due diligence reviews are generally considered to be high risk. By late last year, Morgan Stanley found that it had clients that fell outside the firms internal risk-appetite statement, which outlines the types of clients the firm wants to avoid, the people said. As part of its probe, Finra has also asked for information on Morgan Stanleys tool that scores clients on their riskiness and flags whether they should undergo a deeper review. That tool wasnt turned on for E*Trade clients until early 2024, the Journal previously reported. The lapse came after Morgan Stanley had turned off a similar tool for E*Trade shortly after the firm acquired the trading platform. Write to AnnaMaria Andriotis at annamaria.andriotis@wsj.com Rising summer temperatures have softened Europes resistance to air conditioning and touched off a new political fight about the wisdom of installing the technology everywhere, U.S.-style. A heat wave that hit Western Europe in June and July spurred a run on air conditioners in appliance stores across the region. The scorching temperatures came unusually early, before many Europeans had a chance to decamp to the beach for summer vacation, exposing vulnerabilities in the cities where most people live. More than 1,000 French schools closed partially or completely because they lacked air conditioning. Criticism quickly arose from politicians on the right who said authorities have left the continent woefully under-air conditioned. Marine Le Pen, the leader of Frances far-right National Rally party, proposed a major campaign to install air conditioning in schools, hospitals and other institutions. In the U.K., the Conservatives urged Londons Labour Party mayor to eliminate rules that restrict how air conditioning can be included in new housing. In Spain, the far-right Vox party has been highlighting air-conditioning breakdowns to criticize the countrys establishment parties. Public services are unable to function due to a lack of air conditioning, unlike dozens of countries around the world," Le Pen said. The government is still out of touch." French authorities pushed back. Energy minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher said large-scale air conditioning would heat up streets with the machines exhaust, making heat waves worse. Its a bad solution," she told reporters during the last heat wave, flanked by the perspiring prime minister, Francois Bayrou. We should air-condition for vulnerable people to give them a break, but on the other hand we shouldnt do it everywhere." Extreme heat is the biggest climate-change danger facing Europe, marring the continents once-mild summers with heat waves that are becoming more frequent and intense. Adapting to it is expected to require huge investments and a major shift in European attitudes toward air conditioning, which many have long regarded as a luxury that Americans use to excess. Abroad, the contrast is striking: the United States is investing several billion dollars to modernize the air conditioning of its schools, while hospitals there are already largely air-conditioned," read legislation proposed by French conservatives this month that would require air conditioning installed in institutions across the country. A resident at an eldercare facility in Belgium is helped to keep cool during a heat wave in Europe in July. The prospect of U.S.-style air conditioning sends shivers through some Europeans. In France, media outlets often warn that cooling a room to more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit below the outside temperature can cause something called thermal shock," resulting in nausea, loss of consciousness and even respiratory arrest. That would be news to Americans who expect indoor temperatures to be cooled to around 75 degrees even when it is near 100 outside. Others fear respiratory infections that might result from spending long periods in air-conditioned rooms. Europeans who are particularly concerned about climate change want to avoid using electricity for air conditioning that would generate additional greenhouse-gas emissions. Still, the requirement to stay cool is overcoming such skepticism. Europe is the fastest-warming continent, heating twice as much as the global average since the 1980s, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Last month was the hottest June in Western Europe on record, according to Europes Copernicus Climate Change Service. Experts say more air conditioning is a necessity to prevent thousands of people from dying during heat waves. Death aside, Europeans from London to Madrid have increasingly decided they dont want to endure another heat wave in an apartment that isnt air-conditioned. I have the impression that it is getting hotter and hotter every year," said Sophie Berto, an analyst who has lived in Paris for a decade. Berto broke down this year and snagged the last air conditioner at an appliance store in central Paris. Maybe because I wasnt here in previous years, but now it is too hot." A thermometer in Paris in early July shows a record temperature of 111 degrees Fahrenheit. Air conditioning is expected to drive up annual power demand substantially in southern Europeone study predicted an increase of around 10% in Italy by 2050. In Northern Europe, reduced need for heating in winter should offset some of the additional energy demand in the summer; but there the grid is expected to come under new stress from government plans to replace natural-gas heating with electric heat pumps, devices that can be used to either warm or cool. The dynamics are putting pressure on the continent to ensure it has enough renewable electricity sources to meet surging demand. Some environmentalists and scientists say Europe can keep cool without relying on air conditioning on a massive scale. Incorporating more greenery into buildings and streets can lower extreme temperatures in cities. Designing buildings to allow ventilation can reduce the need for air conditioning, as can installing shutters that block sunlight from entering the building. Yet regulations that require such measures have become a target in the current political debate. In London, construction firms must consider cooling design features before including air conditioning in new buildings. Andrew Bowie, a Conservative member of Parliament, this month called for Mayor Sadiq Khan to end the ridiculous restrictions on air-conditioning units in new builds in London." We must move away from this poverty mindset on reducing energy usage," he said. The mayor is not banning air conditioning," said a spokeswoman for Khan, adding that his development plan recommends developers install other forms of ventilation in new homes, which help to lower energy costs for households." French officials want to expand geothermal heating and cooling systems to avoid the need for traditional air conditioning. Such systems circulate water from deep underground, removing heat from buildings into the ground in the summer and putting it back in the winter. The process is much more efficient than normal air conditioning and avoids sending heat into the air. The upfront investment, however, is significant and possibly prohibitive for installation in buildings that are more than a century old and common in Europes old-world capitals. Chateau Pontet-Canet, a winery near Bordeaux, has installed such a system that worked perfectly during the last heat wave, cooling the propertys wine tanks, cellar and offices, said technical director Mathieu Bessonnet. The ecological problem is whether we should air-condition or not," Bessonnet said. Wine is our business, and we dont want to make vinegar. So we have to air condition The idea of consuming energy to air-condition for comfort, well, that is what remains absurd." Write to Matthew Dalton at Matthew.Dalton@wsj.com President Trumps immigration-enforcement tactics have been defined by a muscular use of executive power with little precedent. Now, a federal judge is tasked with deciding whether to curtail that approach against foreigners in the U.S. legally. U.S. District Judge William Young in Boston wrapped up a closely watched trial this week on the administrations targeting of international students engaged in campus activism. Following a series of high-profile arrests of pro-Palestinian protesters, faculty groups are pressing a broad legal effort to head off similar future arrests. The litigation taps into rarely explored legal tensions between the governments latitude to set the terms for foreigners living legally in the U.S. and the rights of those residents while they are here. Two weeks of testimony, including from government witnesses, offered a rare public window into the extraordinary measures the administration has taken against immigrants at elite universities. The challengers, led by the American Association of University Professors, say the administrations efforts to revoke green cards and visas from pro-Palestinian campus activists amount to proof of a policy of ideological deportation" that has terrified noncitizens in higher education and chilled their speech. It is stifling dissent," said Alexandra Conlon, a lawyer for the academics, in closing arguments on Monday. That is the goal." Lawyers for the administration say there is no such policy. They also say that the government has long held far-reaching power to order the removal of noncitizens to protect the foreign-policy interests of the U.S. and that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is using it lawfully now. Foreigners in the U.S. dont have the same protections as Americans when it comes to protesting, the Justice Department says. The answer to the question of whether aliens and citizens have equivalent rights under the First Amendment is no, theyre not equivalent," Justice Department lawyer Ethan Kanter said in the governments closing presentation. Government witnesses testified that a tiger team" at the Department of Homeland Security was given a list of 5,000 protesters to examine, most of whose names were taken from the website Canary Mission, which claims it documents people and groups that promote hatred of the USA, Israel and Jews." That team, which included analysts reassigned from counterterrorism intelligence work, produced around 200 reports on protesters to send to the State Department for Rubio to consider, said a DHS official, Peter Hatch. Hatch said some of those reports were created about international students who attended protests but werent suspected of having committed a crime. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents involved in some of the arrests testified that in decadeslong careers they had never seen the government attempt to deport anyone on the order of the secretary of state, or under similar circumstances. Government lawyers argued throughout the trial that the administration wasnt mounting a campaign to target international students or professors because of their political viewpoints. But government witnesses also testified about the administrations willingness to order the deportation of people largely on the basis of what it considers to be antisemitic speech that is at odds with U.S. foreign-policy interests. The judge, a Reagan appointee, has offered several observations that suggested skepticism of the governments position. For example, Young said, criticisms of the state of Israel arent antisemitism, theyre political speech, protected speech," and added that he didnt see criticism of the state of Israel as tantamount to support for Hamas either. He also expressed concern over immigration agents use of masks, saying that a common-sense inference was that this was intended to spread fear. A handful of noncitizen faculty testified to experiencing panic after government efforts to deport Columbia University students and green-card holders Mahmoud Khalil and Mohsen Mahdawi, along with Yunseo Chung, a lawful permanent resident who has been in the U.S. since she was 7 years old. Often mentioned, too, was the arrest of Rumeysa Ozturk, a student visa holder at Tufts University. In each of those cases, judges have sided with the students and criticized the governments actions as overreachthough Khalil, Mahdawi and Ozturk each spent weeks in detention before being freed. Nadje Al-Ali, an anthropology professor at Brown and director of its Center for Middle East Studies until 2024, testified that she had flown to visit her mother in a care home in Germany, and heard soon after landing that Khalil had been taken into detention. She recalled thinking, Oh, my God, I just left the country. Whats going to happen when I get back?" She said she returned earlier than she had planned from Europe, contacted an immigration lawyer to keep in touch with her as she re-entered the U.S., and carefully curated her social media so that it was all dogs, cats and recipes." Justice Department lawyers pointed out that none of the academics who testified had been contacted by government officials about their activities or political views, and that Al-Ali hadnt been detained at Bostons Logan airport on her return and hadnt been subject to more than cursory questioning. Youngs decision is expected in the coming weeks. Write to Louise Radnofsky at louise.radnofsky@wsj.com The Trump administration is using its global trade wars to advance the interests of the U.S. technology industry, seeking to prevent foreign countries from targeting American internet firms. The administration hopes to use the threat of tariffs and access to the U.S. economy to stop multiple countries from imposing new taxes, regulations and tariffs on American tech companies and their products ahead of a self-imposed Aug. 1 deadline, when higher levies are scheduled to take effect for dozens of trading partners. Measures targeting Americas internet giants remain a sticking point in discussions with Brazil, South Korea and the European Union, according to people familiar with the discussions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are scheduled to meet Friday in Washington with South Koreas trade and finance ministers. President Trumps abrupt termination of trade talks with Canada last month over that countrys proposed digital-services tax highlighted his administrations focus on the dominance of the American tech sector. Canada quickly rescinded the tax to salvage trade discussions. The emphasis on protecting Americas internet companies abroad follows a yearslong campaign by tech companies, which have warned that what they call unfair taxes and regulations overseas could restrict the amount they can invest in the U.S. The U.S. approach to foreign digital taxes represents a win for an industry that nevertheless faces issues with the Trump administration domestically, including antitrust challenges and the impact of tariffs on their businesses. The companies have done a very good job at making the big tech agenda America first," said Nu Wexler, a public affairs consultant who previously worked at tech companies including Meta Platforms and Google. Many companies and executives donated millions of dollars to Trumps inauguration. Google CEO Sundar Pichai was among tech leaders in attendance for President Trumps inauguration in January. Tech companies have found allies on digital trade in Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Bessent and Greer. In the deal with Indonesia, U.S. negotiators secured commitments that the Jakarta government would drop plans to tariff electronic goods such as movies or software downloads. Similar commitments have been secured from Vietnam, say people familiar with the plans, though the administration has yet to release documentation of that deal. The administration is committed to delivering on Trumps pledge to defend innovative U.S. companies from unfair practices overseas, White House spokesman Kush Desai said. Brazil is focused on resuming trade talks, not retaliatory measures, a government official said. The European Commission, which is in charge of EU trade policy, declined to comment. The South Korean and Vietnamese embassies didnt respond to requests for comment. Veterans of the first Trump term say the president has long opposed efforts from other countries to tax and regulate U.S. tech companies, even as he often battles them on the home front. Trump sees this as a way for other countries to grab revenue unfairly from U.S. companies," said Everett Eissenstat, a former deputy director of the National Economic Council. When the European Union imposed hefty fines on Google and other tech companies in his first term, Trump referred to the blocs then-competition czar as a tax lady" who really hates the U.S." The U.S. initiated probes of digital taxes in countries including France in 2019 that stalled during the Biden administration. Countries have long tried to allocate more of Silicon Valleys profits from digital advertising and online activities to their territories. Many are ramping up regulations for taking down misinformation, promoting transparency and keeping minors safe online. Some are trying to strengthen antitrust laws. Vice President JD Vance attended an AI summit in February in Paris. The Biden administration hoped a multilateral process would address digital-services taxes, but that effort stalled. Many tech executives felt former President Biden ignored the rise of overseas regulations. The U.S. government has finally acknowledged there is a fire we must put out," said Matt Schruers, chief executive officer of the Computer & Communications Industry Association trade group. Skeptics say the administration is battling for an already thriving industry that doesnt need its support while overlooking other segments of the economy that are more exposed to tariffs. Democrats have criticized Trumps ties to tech and cryptocurrency executives. After Trump was elected the second time, tech leaders including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Googles Sundar Pichai made pilgrimages to Trumps Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. Curbing what they said were harmful policies overseas consistently came up in the conversations, people familiar with the conversations said. As administration officials threatened eye-watering tariffs on goods from many countries, they also demanded that those governments relax some of their tech restrictions. In March, India withdrew its digital-services tax. India and the U.S. are still negotiating, but Trump has said he thinks a deal is close. Canadas digital tax was seen as a bellwether because it could have encouraged other countries to follow through on similar measures. Ottawas levy was expected to cost U.S. tech companies about $3 billion and included a retroactive component back to 2022. President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney last month at the G-7 summit in Alberta, Canada. In late June, Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney clashed over the digital tax at a Group of Seven summit in Canada. Some tech companies were preparing to make the payments when Trump stepped in just before the deadline. The two sides havent yet reached a trade deal, and Carney has indicated U.S. tariffs might remain in place even with an agreement. Last week, shortly after Trump said he would impose 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods, Greer initiated a tariff investigation on Brazil under a section of U.S. trade law targeting unfair trade practices. Trump cited the countrys legal action against Jair Bolsonaro, Brazils former president and one his political allies. The investigation includes Brazils digital-trade and electronic-payments practices, the latest salvo cheered by the tech sector. This is a very acute focus right now," CCIAs Schruers said. Write to Amrith Ramkumar at amrith.ramkumar@wsj.com and Gavin Bade at gavin.bade@wsj.com Bank holiday today, July 23: A number of schools in Noida have declared a holiday today, July 23, on account of Sawan Shivratri. They also cited likely traffic congestion due to the ongoing Kanwar Yatra as a reason to shift some classes online, according to s report by the Hindustan Times. Work this in mind, customers may worry that banks are also closed on July 23 for Sawan Shivratri. They added not. As per the official bank holidays list for 2025, issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), today is not a holiday. Notably, there are a number of holidays for banks across India during the week, including for the Buddhist festival of Drukpa Tshe-zi in Gangtok, and the Saturday and Sunday weekend leaves. There is also a likely long weekend this week, so check with your local bank branch for their official schedule. The second and fourth Saturdays and all Sundays are weekly holidays for all public and private banks across India, including the State Bank of India (SBI). Besides this, there are a total of seven listed bank holidays in July this year. The RBI and state governments create a list of holidays for banks, taking into account national and local occasions, operational requirements, religious celebrations and other cultural observances. The central bank makes the announcement through its official website and notifications to banks and other financial institutions. You can continue to use online or mobile banking services even on national holidays unless notified to users for technical or other reasons. For cash emergencies, ATMs are open for withdrawals, app and UPI function as usual. Bank holidays in July 2025: FULL State-wise holiday list calendar July 3 (Thursday) Kharchi Puja Banks will be closed in Agartala to celebrate Kharchi Puja, a Hindu festival in Tripura dedicated to fourteen deities called Chaturdasha Devata. July 5 (Saturday) Guru Hargobinds Birthday Banks will be closed in Jammu and Srinagar to mark Guru Hargobinds Birthday, the sixth of the ten Sikh Gurus. July 6 (Sunday) Banks closed pan-India. July 12 (Saturday) Banks closed pan-India for second Saturday. July 13 (Sunday) Banks closed pan-India. July 14 (Monday) Beh Deinkhlam Banks will be closed in Shillong for Beh Deinkhlam, a festival celebrated by the Jaintia tribe in Meghalaya. July 16 (Wednesday) Harela Banks in Dehradun will be closed for Harela, a festival celebrated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and some parts of Himachal Pradesh. India's banking regulator, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, cancelled the licence of the Karnataka-based Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank due to the institutional lender's lack of earning prospects. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), vide order dated July 22, 2025, has cancelled the licence of The Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd., Karwar. Consequently, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business on July 23, 2025, said the RBI. Also Read | Digital banking not mandatory for other services: RBI draft As per the announcement, the Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank will cease to conduct banking business effective the end of business hours on Wednesday, 23 July 2025. The central bank also flagged that the Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank does not have adequate capital to comply with the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act of 1949. The bank does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. As such, it does not comply with the provisions of Section 11(1) and Section 22(3)(d) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, said RBI in an official release. Also Read | RBIs guidelines on loan prepayment to come into force from Jan 1 RBI has also requested the Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Karnataka, to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator for the institutional lender. What will happen to the depositors? Depositors who have parked their money in the Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank will be entitled to receive an insurance claim deposit of up to 5 lakh from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC). The bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full, according to the RBI release. The RBI data also showed that 92.9% of the co-operative bank's depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC. Also Read | RBI highlights domestic resilience amid global headwinds As on 30 June 2025, the DICGC has already paid 37.79 crore of the total insured deposits under the provisions of Section 18A of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on the willingness received from the concerned depositors of the bank, said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its official release. RBI also highlighted that, given the current situation of the institutional lender, they have taken the decision to bar the licence of the bank in the matter of public interest. Bengaluru: Singularity AMC, the investment firm backed by veteran investor Madhusudhan Kela, is raising capital from select investors seeking exposure to portfolio companies with significant presence in high-growth manufacturing sectors. The fund is mandated to support sectors such as renewable energy, energy storage, transmission and distribution, battery materials, critical energy minerals, defence, electronics, semiconductors, medical devices, nuclear energy, and aerospace and automotive components. The deal size will range between 250 crore and 500 crore alongside co-investors who will invest in high-growth manufacturing companies," said Yash Kela, founder and chief investment officer of Singularity. We are aggressively investing in the sector and we believe that there is great potential to invest capital and get scalable exits." Founded in 2016, the firm has invested in several manufacturing companies such as Lohum CleanTech, HEG Ltd, Qucev, Sterling and Wilson Data Center and Silver Consumer Electrics, among others. Some of these companies may eye a public listing in the coming year, charting a viable route for exits for Singularity. New class of sector-specific funds Singularitys push comes as a growing number of investors look to tap Indias manufacturing potential. While sector-specific funds remain relatively uncommon in Indias investment ecosystem, their rise suggests a shift in strategy as firms pursue more targeted exposure to high-growth verticals. Over the past year, several firms with significant exposure to manufacturing have launched new funds to tap into the sectors potential, even as they continue to invest across other verticals, according to data from Venture Intelligence. These include Amicus Capital, Trident Growth Partners, RevX Capital, Veloce Opportunities Fund, Finnolve, Folks Motor, and Arka Investment Advisory. Amicus Capital has raised $171 million in its first close for a fund targeting $200 million. Trifecta Capital has raised $120 million toward a $240 million goal, while Trident Growth Partners has secured $117 million toward a target of $234 million. While these funds maintain diversified strategies, each has significant exposure to the manufacturing segment. Even smaller firms are reorienting strategies to tap the opportunity. Capital-A, a seed-stage investor, has pivoted its $50 million second fund to focus on manufacturing and deeptech. Founder and lead investor Ankit Kedia attributed the move to macroeconomic tailwinds in the country which are pointing towards a very strong manufacturing sector". Other sectors, including proptech, media and climate tech, have also seen increased interest from sectoral funds over the past year. While such strategies have existed in the Indian investment landscape for some time, they are increasingly coming to the fore as investors seek to make more focused bets on sunrise industries to maximize returns. This uptick in activity comes as private equity and venture capital investors look to identify the next wave of companies that will strengthen supply chains and accelerate Indias shift toward an export-led economy. Several large manufacturing deals have materialized this year. VIP Industries raised $206 million in a round led by Multiples. Euler Motors secured $75 million from GIC and British International Investments, while Scimplify raised $40 million in a deal led by Accel and Omnivore Partners. Rangsons Aerospace also raised capital in a round led by ValueQuest. According to Venture Intelligence, firms have raised close to $1.9 billion in 2025 so far, about 60% of last years total of $3.2 billion across 123 deals. Also Read | Sebi should allow VCs to tap into retail investors' growing risk appetite Macroeconomic tailwinds and policy push The momentum reflects a shift triggered by pandemic-era supply chain disruptions, which exposed Indias reliance on imports and prompted a policy and capital push toward local manufacturing. Several venture capital firms and startups began aligning their focus accordingly. We are seeing strong tailwinds from the China-plus-one strategy, which is driving both domestic and global demand for more resilient, distributed, and technology-enabled supply chains," said Prashant Prakash, partner at Accel. Accel recently announced its eighth fund with a $650 million corpus, and has identified manufacturing as one of its key focus areas. The firm has previously invested in companies such as Zetwerkwhich derives most of its revenue from international marketsautomated composite manufacturer Fabheads, and Nabhdrishti Aerospace, a gas turbine engine company. Motilal Oswal Alternates, another firm leaning into the shift, has strengthened its team over the past two years to sharpen its focus across various manufacturing sub-segments. Defence, electronics, automotive and other components are getting added to the entire manufacturing sector," said Prakash Bangla, managing director at the firm, adding that the construction and building materials segments are also expected to pick up. Government initiatives have also played a catalytic role. In 2020, a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme was launched across 14 sectors, including medical devices, pharmaceuticals, IT hardware, and drones, with a total outlay of 1.97 trillion. As of August last year, realized investments stood at 1.42 trillion, according to an official release. However, earlier this year, Reuters reported that the government does not plan to extend the scheme beyond its current scope, citing delays in subsidy payouts and difficulties in ramping up production in some sectors. What it helped with was to get the ecosystem running. For folks who wanted to build and survive, they've found a way to do it," said Kedia, adding, Any business that depends on PLI was never a business to start with." He cautioned that while industries like smartphones, pharma and electronics manufacturing services (EMS) are blue-chip, manufacturing startups must build clear differentiators or risk margin compression across the board. Still, investor interest remains buoyed by targeted policy interventions. Earlier this year, the government launched a new PLI scheme focused on EMS sector, with a proposed investment of 59,300 crore and projected incremental production of 4.6 trillion. EMS players, whose components serve defence, medical devices, and consumer appliances, are already seeing traction. Aerospace and defence, medical devices and semiconductors will be split 40:40:20. India is going to be a huge driver for our semiconductor vertical," said Kaushik Mudda, founder and CEO of Ethereal Machines. Currently, about 80% of the company's revenue comes from exports to other nations. The precision manufacturing startup, backed by Peak XV Partners and Steadview Capital, expects its revenue mix to shift as the national manufacturing focus deepens. Defence and aerospace account for 70% of revenue, while medical devices make up 20%. General engineering and semiconductors contribute 5% each. The flip side of the EMS sector, according to Kedia, is concentration risk, where a company's revenue is concentrated to one or two clients. If they lose those, they risk going under. Eventually, for the EMS ecosystem to thrive and survive, they'll need a mix of large, medium and small customers, so they can de-risk and not have more than 10% concentration from one client." Also Read | Russian Billionaire Fights VC in Court Over Troubled Partnership Opportunities and gaps Still, challenges remain as India attempts to position itself as a credible alternative to China. Experts say it may take another 10 to 15 years to close the capability gap. At the moment, we still rely on China when it comes to tools and tool designing. The other aspect is top-end talent to actually set up plants in sectors like EMS. For a sector like semiconductor manufacturing, we still hardly have the engineers available," said Amarjeet Singh Makhija, partner and markets lead advisory for startups and unicorns at PwC India. Capital-As Kedia noted that we dont necessarily need cheap labour to compete with China. We are seeing that there are ways to automate it, and that's the lever playing out in many startups today, and this will further drive investments in the space." Recent data underscores the tension between bullish sentiment and the real economy. Indias manufacturing activity rose to a 14-month high in June, with the HSBC PMI climbing to 58.4 from 57.6 in Maywell above its long-run average of 54.1. Yet the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) tells a more muted story. Industrial output grew just 1.2% in May, the slowest pace in nine months. Manufacturing, which accounts for nearly 78% of the index, expanded only 2.6%, down from 3.1% in April and sharply below the 5.1% growth seen a year earlier. As capital, policy, and global demand converge, investors are betting that Indias next manufacturing leap will be built not just on cost arbitragebut on capability. MUMBAI : India achieved its target of blending up to 20% ethanol into petrol in March 2025five years ahead of the 2030 deadline. Now, the government has grown more ambitious: It wants to blend more ethanol into petrol. But why is India using more ethanol-blended petrol like E20? How does it affect our vehicles? Most importantly, can it reduce the harm caused by fossil fuels? Mint explains: Why is India blending ethanol with petrol? Primarily, to reduce our import bill and emissions. In 2003, India started a pilot programme to blend ethanola byproduct of sugarcaneinto petrol to reduce carbon emissions from the fuel's use. By 2019, the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was extended to all of India (except the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep). Also Read | Why India should not divert its food security rice stocks to ethanol The ethanol blending helps the country reduce its crude oil imports and bring down its foreign-exchange outflow. Where are we on our ethanol blending programme? As of 2025, all commercially available petrol in India is blended with ethanol (up to 20%). We reached this target five years earlier than the planned 2030 deadline. Now, the government is planning to hike blending targets to 27% by 2030 and sell E27 petrol by 2030, reported The Times of India on 17 July. The ministry of petroleum and natural gas (MoPNG) denied the report, saying it had not made a decision on higher ethanol blending yet. However, in June, the ministry of road transport published a notification proposing changes in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, that will allow automakers to manufacture flex fuel vehicles. These can run on E85petrol containing 85% ethanol. Has ethanol blending delivered on its objectives? Yes, at least according to the government. Indias greenhouse gas emissions reduced by 19.2 million tonnes between 2014 and July 2021, showed the latest ministry of petroleum and natural gas estimates. The ministry said the country also saved over 26,000 crore in foreign exchange by cutting its reliance on crude oil imports during the period. So, whats the fuss about E20 and higher ethanol-blended petrol? Consumers arent enthused about buying petrol blended with ethanol for a number of reasons. Also Read | India steps up push for ethanol as fuel, automakers seek differential pricing First, burning ethanol produces less energy than petrol, so E20 and other blends affect car mileage. This means car owners are forced to buy more petrol to travel the same distance. Second, despite blending ethanol with petrol and saving on import costs, the government has not reduced petrol prices; oil marketing companies continue to retail the fuel at above 100 per litre in most major cities. Third, engines of older vehicles may not be compatible with E20 and newer blends that the government may introduce next. For customers, ethanol-blended petrol may be reducing the lives of their vehicles with no discernible savings in fuel costs. But isnt it worth the reduced emissions? Perhaps. Environmentalists say there are second- and third-order effects to producing ethanol-blended petrol in India. As farmers grow more sugarcane to convert to ethanol and sell to the government, land and water resources in delicate areas come under pressure, adding to environmental stress. Instead, the government should focus on turning biomass from existing activitiessuch as wood chips and crop residueto make more ethanol. In 2021, the Niti Aayog said a relatively small" part of ethanol procurement came from non-sugar sources. Besides, vehicle makers will need to invest in upgrading the engines of their newer cars so that they can run on petrol blended with more ethanol. Energy experts say the government must also determine how to promote electric vehicles alongside ethanol-blended fuel-run vehicles. Are carmakers ready for this upgrade? Perhaps. In March, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers told the MoPNG that carmakers could reduce the loss of engine efficiency due to E20 petrol with some modifications in engine hardware and tuning. At any rate, the ministry said that E20 had only a marginal reduction" in fuel efficiency of cars made for E10 and calibrated for E20. Manufacturers are getting ready for newer fuel norms. At Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, leading carmakers, including Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, and Mahindra & Mahindra, showed flex-fuel cars that can run on E85 and higher grades of ethanol-blended petrol. New Delhi: State-owned Oil India Ltd is in talks with global exploration and production (E&P) majors, including ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies and Petrobras, to jointly explore hydrocarbon blocks in India, said two people in the know of the developments. Oil India's one-on-one talks with these companies are largely focused on a possible partnership for the 10th round of auctions under the country's Open Average Licensing Policy (OALP-X). In this round, the government plans to offer 2.5 lakh sq. km. area for exploration. The OALP-X round was launched in February and the deadline for submission of bids is 31 July. According to one of the people cited above, there is likelihood of an extension of the deadline. Talks are underway with major global players, Total, ExxonMobil and Petrobras. It is being looked at if Oil India can get a partner for the upcoming 10th round of auctions for deep and ultradeep water blocks," said the person mentioned above. The partner would also have the option to come together for blocks bagged in the previous round (ninth)." Also Read | Oil prices fall as tariff deadline looms Queries sent to Oil India, TotalEnergies, Exxonmobil, and Petrobras remained unanswered till press time. Apart from this, Oil India is also scouting for a technical service partner in its old and legacy oilfields, where it is looking to increase production. In an interview to Mint in May, Ranjit Rath, chairman and managing director of Oil India, had said several overseas national as well as private oil companies have shown interest in jointly bidding for blocks in the upcoming auction round. We have several engagements currently going on," Rath had said. With some of them, we have got NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) signed, and we are having data exchanges," the chairman said. In February, the Maharatna company had signed a memorandum of understanding with Petrobras, Brazils state-owned oil firm, to collaborate in the exploration and production of hydrocarbon resources in Indias offshore regions. Global collaborations are critical to bring in expertise for deep and ultra deepwater blocks. For shallow water and onshore exploration and development, most of the companies have the required technologies. But in the case of deep and ultra deepwater blocks, there are challenges in every stage, exploration, development and production, due to the ocean weight, the pressure that the ocean creates," said Gaurav Moda, partner and energy sector leader at EY-Parthenon India. Only a few global players have the expertise to explore and produce oil from such blocks. They also require different kind of equipment compared to shallow water and onshore exploration and extraction." Noting the urgency in India's aim to harness its domestic reserves, Moda said that rather than trying to indigenously develop such technologies, striking a partnership with a global player would be more beneficial. Under the OALP-IX round, Oil India bagged nine blocks, adding 51,000 sq. km. to its exploration portfolio. Three of the blocks--one each in Cambay, Mahanadi and Assam Shelf basins--were won in partnership with its public sector peer Oil and Natural Gas Corp Ltd (ONGC), while another six were acquired on its own. ONGC, together with UK-headquartered BP plc and Reliance Industries Ltd, won the bid to explore Saurashtra basin under OALP-IX, marking BP's foray into India's upstream oil and gas space. Oil India's move to scout for global partnerships is in line with the government's push to attract overseas investments in the upstream space in a bid to raise local production and reduce the country's dependence on imports. During his visit to Vienna for the 9th OPEC International Seminar earlier this month, union minister for petroleum and natural gas Hardeep Singh Puri met chiefs of global energy giants and discussed potential collaborations in light of Indias ambitious E&P plans. The minister had said India is set to explore nearly 2.5 lakh sq. km. in new offshore and onshore areas under OALP-X, which will make it one of the worlds largest bidding rounds. Also Read | How China curbed its oil addictionand blunted a US pressure point In FY25, Oil India produced 3.46 million tonne (MT) of crude and natural gas, amounting to 3.25 MT of oil equivalent. This took its total hydrocarbon production to 6.71 MT of oil equivalent, the highest ever for the company. It aims to achieve oil and gas production of 10-12 MT of oil equivalent by the end of the decade. In 2020, under the third round of auctions, Oil India had won two blocks in the Andaman basin, touted as an oil-rich region. Flight diversions, choked toilets, broken seats, and now, a fatal crash. Air India has been in the news for all the wrong reasons since the Tatas took charge from the government. Passengers believed the Tata Group had a magic wand that could turn around a beleaguered airline in a jiffy. Alas, it was not to be. The turnaround is taking longer than expected. A large part of the delay is due to prevailing market conditions and supply chain issues. Air Indias repeated announcements about refurbishment and revamp since the takeover have only heightened anticipation. Also Read | Air India says no issues in locking mechanism of fuel control switches in Boeing fleet Cut to June 2025. The focus has suddenly shifted to safety above all else after the deadly crash of AI171 at Ahmedabad, which occurred within seconds of take-off. Social media has been abuzz ever since, with chatter centring on Boeing, Dreamliners, and Air India. Much of it, however, is unfounded in the absence of solid proof. Passengers are also said to be avoiding the airline or specific aircraft types, but data confirming this is not yet available. Now, three incidents involving Air India have made headlines. Is there a break to this cycle of horrid news for the airline? A runway excursion, APU fire, and rejected take-off On Monday, 21 July, AI2744 from Kochi to Mumbai had a runway excursion while landing in Mumbai. The aircraft briefly left the runway before returning to the paved surface and taxiing to the gate under its own power. An official statement said that passengers disembarked normally. The aircraft was VT-TYA, an all-economy class jet that was inducted into Vistara and later moved to Air India after the merger. The four-year-old aircraft has since been grounded in Mumbai. Photos circulating on social media showed a damaged engine nacelle, damage to the wheels, and grass remains that the aircraft likely picked up while off the runway. This could have been much worse, but the pilots saved the day. Mumbais monsoons have a history of triggering runway excursions every few years. The main runway has been closed in the past following excursions by SpiceJet in 2019 and Turkish Airlines in 2011. The city was experiencing heavy rain on Monday. On Tuesday, 22 July, AI315 from Hong Kong to Delhi experienced an auxiliary power unit (APU) fire shortly after landing and parking at the gate. The incident occurred while passengers had begun disembarking, and the APU was automatically shut down, as per system design. The aircraft suffered some damage, but all passengers and crew members disembarked safely. According to an airline statement, the aircraft has been grounded for further investigation, and the regulator has been duly notified. The aircraft in question was VT-TVG, one of Air Indias four Airbus A320s. Meanwhile, a DelhiKolkata flight experienced a rejected takeoff. Such incidents are standard safety procedures executed by pilots within all operational limitations. On 21 July, when VT-TVA was scheduled to fly to Kolkata as AI2403, it had to abort takeoff due to a technical issue and return to the gate. A replacement aircraft departed with a delay of nearly four hours. The plane has since returned to service. Tail Note Call it coincidence or otherwise, all three aircraft involved in these incidents are former Vistara A320 family now operated by Air India. While the runway excursion and APU fire could have turned serious, the rejected take-off received disproportionate attention, simply because it involved Air India. Such events occur routinely across the world and with other Indian carriers as well. Also Read | 9 showcause notices issued to Air India over 5 violations in last 6 months: Govt Still, this poses a serious concern for Air India, especially with both the flying and non-flying public forming opinions based solely on headlines. For brand Air India, this is bad news. On 18 July, CareEdge Ratings downgraded 150 crore worth of TruCap Finance bonds to 'D', or default, along with 750 crore of long-term bank facilities. The ratings agency cited the companys failure to pay interest and principal on its non-convertible debentures (NCDs) due on 16 July. The development has left a trail of retail investors in distress, as these bonds were widely distributed via online bond platform providers (OBPPs) such as Golden Pi, Grip Invest, Alitifi (by Northern Arc), and BondsIndia. These NCDs were first issued in January 2024 via Northern Arc, with subsequent tranches distributed through other platforms. Originally rated BBB and offering coupon rates of 13-13.5%, the bonds were sold in ticket sizes as low as 1 lakh. TruCap, a listed non-banking financial company focused on gold and loans for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), saw its stock plunge 61.4% over the past year (as of 18 July). The company was in the process of being acquired by the Marwadi Chandrana Group, but delays in committed fund transfers played a role in precipitating the default. A person familiar with the matter estimated that around 1,100 investors were impacted, adding that the total outstanding principal owed to retail investors stands at around 55 crore. A spokesperson for TruCap said the company is committed to repaying all dues in full. The company has 370 crore of net debt outstanding, of which 270 crore is not NCDs. As for the default of 72 crore of NCDs, the company repaid 15% between 18 and 21 July, the spokesperson said. TruCap has been at the centre of acquisition talks in recent months. InCred Finance was set to purchase its gold loan portfolio via a slump sale in February, but the transaction did not materialize as the Marwadi Chandrana Group wanted to acquire the entire company along with the gold portfolio. As on May 31, 2025, TruCap Finance Ltds liquidity profile remained stretched given the debt repayments of 103 crore over the next three months against unencumbered cash and cash equivalents of 57 crore," CareEdge Ratings said in a note accompanying its downgrade. However, CareEdge Ratings had drawn comfort from the expected collection of 92 crore during the same period, fund infusion of 10 crore from the existing promoters and of 100 crore from the Marwadi Chandarana Group (MCG), of which the first tranche of 50 crore was expected by June 15, 2025, and the remaining 50 crore scheduled in July 2025," it added. The delay in debt servicing was due to non-receipt of committed funds and premature redemption of NCDs, which resulted in a liquidity squeeze for TruCap, CareEdge said, adding that its rating action was based on its policy on default recognition. View Full Image (Mint Graphics) Bonds break trust Some online bond platform providers had already flagged concerns. We had disabled trading in TruCap on Bondbazaar due to its small size and lack of operational information," said Suresh Darak, chief executive of Bondbazaar. Wint Wealth and IndiaBonds also did not list the TruCap bonds. CareEdge Ratings had issued warnings even before it downgraded TruCap bonds to D. The companys gearing levels also deteriorated due to erosion in net worth as on March 31, 2025. The ratings continue to reflect constraints arising from TruCap Finance Ltds (TFL) moderate resource profile and persistent asset quality challenges, particularly within its unsecured business loan segment," CareEdge said in a note dated 4 June. Moreover, the company reported covenant breaches with certain lenders during FY25, although waivers were obtained in some instances." TruCap Finance swung to a net loss of 66.60 crore in FY25 from a net profit of 11.71 crore in FY24. This was primarily because the companys credit cost rose significantly to 72.80 crore in FY25 from 4.11 crore in the previous year, CareEdge said in its June report. Also Read | Mutual fund mis-selling: What the first public disclosures reveal As on March 31, 2025, TFL reported GNPA (gross non-performing asset) and NNPA of 3.70% and 2.20% on AUM (assets under management) respectively, compared to levels of 1.32% and 0.83% reported, as on March 31, 2024 primarily attributed to decline in AUM, driven by portfolio run-off and limited disbursement during FY25," the rating agency said. Further the company is also experiencing increased stress among the unsecured business loan segment, in line with the industry," CareEdge added. Ajai James, a software consultant based in Cochin, Kerala, invested 3 lakh in TruCap bonds through one of the online bond platforms on 15 May 2024 as he sought to diversify from equities. But on 16 July 2025, instead of receiving his principal and interest, he received an email from the bond platform announcing the default. The company and its promoters are currently evaluating all viable options to address this situation and have assured stakeholders that they are committed to an early resolution," the online platform said in its email to TruCap bond investors. I heard bonds are safer than stocks. I figured that might not actually be correct," said James over a phone call to Mint. Default or delay? CareEdge had first rated TruCaps bond and long-term bank facilities BBB (positive) in January 2024 but downgraded it one notch to BBB- in February 2025. Another downgrade in June 2025 brought the rating to BB+, two notches below investment grade, giving investors the right to demand early redemption. Catalyst Trusteeship Ltd, the bond trustee, said in an email to investors that TruCap had requested debenture holders to waive this right, but failed to obtain the majority approval in time. The issuer then committed to making full repayment on 16 July 2025. That deadline passed without payment, and the expected funding from the Marwadi Group did not come through. The Marwadi Groups open offer for TruCap shares remains live. Following the default, Catalyst indicated that TruCap had begun making partial repayments5% of outstanding dues were cleared on 18 July and another 10% on 21 July. I would not call this a default. I would rather call it a payment delay," said an executive at one of the online platforms that sold TruCap bonds, speaking on condition of anonymity. The original due date was on a later date. The recent delay was due to mandatory early closure of the NCDs due to a covenant breach." The first signs of trouble had emerged as far back as October, when TruCap started breaching covenants linked to its bond agreements. But despite mounting financial pressures and rating downgrades, TruCap managed to meet its obligations until the missed payment on 16 July this year. A meeting of debenture holders has been scheduled for 8 August to decide the next course of action. Catalyst did not respond to queries fromMint. There is no clarity yet on what steps is Catalyst planning. Regulators have so far remained silent. AMint query to the Securities and Exchange Board of India went unanswered. Risk meets retail The incident has reignited debate around the role of online bond platforms and the suitability of direct bond investments for retail investors. Retail investors should consider the potential risks associated with bonds and not focus solely on the coupon rates offered by bond issuers," said Abhishek Kumar, a Sebi-registered investment adviser and founder of Sahaj Money. Usually, bond issuers who offer higher coupon rates do it to compensate for the higher risk of default associated with those bonds." OBPP acts as a matchmaker between retail investors and bond issuers. However, they are compensated through fees collected from bond issuers to promote the bonds, so the entire risk is borne by the investors and not by OBPP. Retail investors should consider all this before investing directly in these bonds," Kumar added. Nikhil Aggarwal, founder of Grip Invest, pointed out that all investments carry risk. Developments at TruCap seem to be the result of a delay in receiving equity financing combined with an earlier-than-expected redemption of the bonds. Since the underlying loan portfolio of nearly 1,000 crore continues to repay interest and principal, the next 8-10 weeks will showcase the final impact to investors," Aggarwal said. Vishal Dhawan, another Sebi-registered investment adviser and founder of Plan Ahead Wealth Advisors, said most investors may be better off investing in debt mutual funds unless they have the ability to dedicate time to their bond portfolio. Retail investors can consider investing in bonds provided they have the ability to keep track of the changes in financials of the companies issuing the bonds, and the constant shifts in ratings that may accompany them as well. Chasing the highest yields may not be a good strategy as the sustainability of returns along with principal payback are critical determinants." said Dhawan. Indiqube Spaces IPO: The initial public offering (IPO) of Indiqube Spaces Limited has opened today. Bidding for the public issue will begin today at 10:00 AM, which means the Indiqube Spaces IPO subscription status will become available in the public domain. The Indiqube Spaces IPO will remain open until 25 July 2025. This means the public issue will remain open from Wednesday to Friday. The tech-driven workplace solution company has declared the Indiqube Spaces IPO price band at 225 to 237 per equity share. The book build issue is proposed for listing on the BSE and the NSE. The workplace solution company aims to raise 700 crore from this public offer, of which 50 crore is reserved for offer for sale (OFS). The remaining 650 crore is aimed through the issuance of fresh shares. Ahead of the Indiqube Spaces IPO subscription opening date, the company's shares are also available in the grey market. According to market observers, shares of the company are available at a premium of 23 in the grey market today. This means Indiqube Spaces IPO GMP today is 23. The expected Indiqube Spaces IPO listing price in the grey market today is 260 ( 237 + 23), which signals nearly 10% listing gain for investors, if this trend continues on the share listing date, which is most likely on 30 July 2025. Indiqube Spaces IPO subscription status As of 5 pm, the Indiqube Spaces IPO have been subscribed 2.54 times on the second day of bidding. The retail segment and NII have been subscribed 6.90 times and 1.84 times so far; meanwhile, QIB was subscribed 1.42 times. Indiqube Spaces IPO details: Top 10 facts you should know 1] Indiqube Spaces IPO GMP today: According to market observers, the company's shares are available at a premium of 8 in the grey market today. 2] Indiqube Spaces IPO price: The company has declared an IPO price band of 225 to 237 per equity share. 3] Indiqube Spaces IPO date: The public issue will open on 23 July 2025 and remain open until 25 July 2025. 4] Indiqube Spaces IPO size: The company aims to raise 700 crore from its initial offer, of which 650 crore will be raised through the issuance of fresh shares, and the remaining 50 crore will be reserved for the OFS. 5] Indiqube Spaces IPO lot size: A bidder can apply in lots, and one lot of the public issue comprises 63 company shares. 6] Indiqube Spaces IPO allotment date: The most likely date for finalising share allocation is 26 July 2025. However, in case of any delay on 26 July 2025, we expect the next Indiqube Spaces IPO allotment date to be 28 July 2025. 7] Indiqube Spaces IPO registrar: MUFG Intime India Private Limited (Link Intime) has been appointed the official registrar of the book build offer. 8] Indiqube Spaces IPO lead managers: ICICI Securities and JM Financial have appointed the initial offer lead managers. 9] Indiqube Spaces IPO listing date: The public issue is proposed for listing on the BSE and the NSE, and the most likely date for share listing is 30 July 2025. Indiqube Spaces IPO: Apply or not? 10] Indiqube Spaces IPO review: Advising investors to apply for the long-term, Anshul Jain, Head of Research at Lakshmishree Investment, said, "The Indiqube Spaces IPO opens from July 2325 with a price band of 225237 per share and a lot size of 63 shares (~ 14,931). The company aims to raise 1,100 crore, with 462.6 crore allocated for expansion and 93 crore for debt repaymenthighlighting a strong growth push. Institutional confidence is evident from anchor investors committing 314 crore at the upper price band. Financially, IndiQube has shown progress, with FY25 revenue growing by ~27% and net loss nearly halving, but it remains loss-making with 140 crore in red. Risks tied to the commercial real estate sector, such as lease cost volatility and occupancy trends in a hybrid work environment, could impact future performance. While the IPO reflects ambition and investor backing, the lack of profitability and sector sensitivity calls for caution. The issue looks reasonable for growth-focused investors with a mid- to long-term outlook." On whether one should apply for the public issue or not, Gaurav Goel, Founder & Director at Fynocrat Technologies, said, "Indiqube Spaces is a notable player in the managed workspace segment, with a stronghold in Bengaluru and growing traction among IT/GCC clientele. The company has scaled revenue and EBITDA well, supported by high occupancy levels and a differentiated value-added offering. However, its profitability remains under pressure, with consistent losses even after accounting adjustments. Despite reporting a healthy RoCE, free cash flow generation remains limited, a key concern in asset-heavy business models. Additionally, the business is geographically concentrated and exposed to risks from oversupply or shifting demand dynamics in the southern region. With no strong visibility on near-term profits or capital efficiency at the net level, the IPO offers little incentive for investors at this stage. While the managed office sector has long-term potential, we believe this opportunity is best watched from the sidelines." The market capitalisation of the Indiqube Spaces IPO is 4977.12 crore. As of 31 March 2025, the company's ROE was nearly -2.20%, ROCE was a little over 34%, and the debt-equity ratio was around -110.60. The company's EBITDA Margin was around 58%. Since the company posted net losses in FY23, FY24, and FY25, most experts say the IPO cannot be valued on a traditional P/E basis. Shares of AT&T Inc. slumped on Wednesday in pre-market session after the companys profit forecast for the year 2025 fell short of Wall Street estimates. The telecom company said it expects adjusted earnings of $1.97 to $2.07 a share, lower from the Streets forecast of $2.09 on average. Also Read | Verizon Wins FCC Nod for Frontier Deal After Ditching DEI AT&T stock fell 3.7% in pre-market trading on Wednesday after closing at $27.42 on Tuesday. The stock is up 20% so far this year through Tuesdays close. Second Quarter Earnings AT&T said its earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 rose to 54 cents a share. Its revenue surged 3.4% to $30.8 billion. It reported free cash flow of $4.4 billion. The company added fewer fiber customers than expected in the second quarter, stoking concerns about intense competition and eclipsing a surge in wireless subscribers fueled by its discounted bundles. Texas-based AT&T added 243,000 fiber customers in the June quarter, as compared to 261,000 customers during the January-March period. Its bundled plans helped the company add 401,000 net monthly bill-paying wireless phone subscribers in the second quarter. Also Read | Apple, Google Face Beefed Up UK Rules to Rein In Mobile Power Fiber Optic Network The company said it is spending heavily to advance its fiber optic network across the United States and will use cash savings from President Donald Trumps tax and spending bill to accelerate those plans. AT&T further said it expects to realize $6.5 billion to $8 billion of cash tax savings through 2027 as a result of the bill. It plans to invest $3.5 billion of these savings into building out its fiber internet network to a pace of 4 million locations per year by the end of 2026. To expand its wired footprint, the telco is in the process of acquiring Lumen Technologies Inc.s consumer fiber unit. AT&Ts rival Verizon raised the lower end of its annual profit forecast, as strong demand for its higher-tier plans powered better-than-expected second quarter earnings. Mumbai: Indias auto and auto ancillary stocks are on a teareven as sales sputter and supply chain clouds gather. Some lesser-known auto component makers have posted triple-digit stock market gains in the past three months, eclipsing marquee vehicle manufacturers and defying a cautious outlook for the industry. Shares of Frontier Springs have soared 151% in the past three months, Lumax Auto Technologies is up 110%, and Kinetic Engineering has gained 90%, outpacing commercial vehicle makers Force Motorss 85% and SML Isuzus 78% gains. One of the key drivers behind the rally, analysts say, is liquidity. Flush markets and improved risk appetite have lifted not just autos, but other sectors as well. Hopes of a festive season demand rebound, coupled with a potential trickle-down from banks following the Reserve Bank of Indias 50-basis-point rate cut, have added to the optimism. Still, it hasnt been a smooth ride for all auto and auto ancillary stocks. Containe Technologies (-28%), Ola Electric (-23%), Atul Auto (-9%), GNA Axles (-11%), and JBM Auto (-9%) have seen corrections over the past three months, while the Nifty Auto index has risen 7.2%. Hyundai Motor India fared better with 26% gains in the past three months, followed by Mahindra and Mahindra (17%), TVS Motor Co. (4%), Bajaj Auto (2%), and Maruti Suzuki India (6%). Some market participants caution that if the expected rate cut transmission to borrowers or retail loan growth fails to play out, auto stocks could be in for a sharp pullback. Key Takeaways Despite muted demand and supply chain issues, some auto and auto component stocks have surged, posting significant gains in recent months driven by market liquidity, rate cuts, and hopes of a festive season demand recovery. Analysts, however, caution that earnings and demand do not fully support such optimism. Supply chain vulnerabilities, especially the shortage of rare earth magnets from China, threaten productionimpacting both electric and conventional vehicles. While companies have inventory buffers through July, prolonged disruption could affect new launches and margins. Auto sales, especially two-wheelers and commercial vehicles, showed year-on-year declines in Q1 FY26. Soft demand, higher costs, weak global sales, and potential for discounting could pressure operating margins further if conditions dont improveraising the risk of a valuation disconnect The current surge is drawing attention because it runs counter to the broader outlook: domestic vehicle demand remains muted, supply chain risks from a rare-earth-magnet shortage are mounting, and analysts warn of earnings pressure in the September quarter if the disruption persists. While some investors see the issue as temporary, others worry the rally may be running ahead of fundamentals. A 15 July report by BNP Paribas showed mutual funds slightly trimmed their overweight position in the auto sectorto 7.7% in June from 8.0% in May. Foreign institutional investor exposure dipped to 6.9% from 7.0% in the same periodbut market experts explained that this doesnt necessarily mean FIIs exited auto stocks, and could reflect allocations to other sectors instead. Foreign portfolio investors, meanwhile, pumped in $553 million in auto stocks in June, up from just $11 million in May, according to NSDL data. Prior to that, FPIs were net sellers in the auto sector for nine straight months, from August 2024 through April 2025. Supply chain concerns Rare earth magnet supply remains a key concern. These magnetscritical for both electric vehicles (EV) and internal combustion drivetrain componentsare used in electric motors, oxygen sensors, lasers, and a wide array of industrial and medical applications. China dominates this supply chain, and its recent decision to restrict exports of certain rare earth materials has raised alarm across global auto markets. In June, Maruti Suzuki and Bajaj Auto said they had sufficient magnet inventory through July. Kumar Rakesh, analyst at BNP Paribas, said there is no immediate earnings risk from the rare earth crisis, as most companies are believed to have sufficient inventory through July. Investors largely expect the issue to be resolved by then," he said, adding that if new model launches get delayed, that could be a warning sign. But concerns persist. On 11 June, Reuters reported that Maruti had slashed near-term production targets for its debut EV, the e-Vitara, by two-thirds due to magnet shortages. Rakesh added that the pressure may not be limited to EVs. Even ICE vehicles could feel some pressure," he said, referring to conventional vehicles run on internal combustion engines. Companies are already exploring alternative sourcing options and diversifying supply chains, Rakesh added. For now, it looks more like a short-term disruption than a long-term threat." Despite the rare-earth crisis and current weak demand, there are expectations of demand bouncing back in the upcoming festive season, led by rural India, said Jay Kale, executive vice president and auto analyst at Elara Capital. The hope that the the crisis will be short-lived has fuelled momentum, he said, adding, Valuations are no longer cheap and any miss on the festive season demand pickup could affect stock prices." Also Read | Auto dealers concerned about vehicle supplies amid rare earth magnet crisis Sourcing under scrutiny In an earnings call on 30 April, Vivek Vikram Singh, managing director and group chief executive of SONA BLW Precision Forgings, flagged near-term supply chain risks. In India, while we are working with the industry and the government and the Chinese embassy to speed up the process of importing magnets from China, were also evaluating alternate materials, including Ferrite, different grades of magnets, different technologies, as well as different supply sources," he said. Singh warned the disruption could hit global auto production in the short term. The threat of a rare earth minerals shortage is real, and the impact could be visible in the near term, especially for EVs," said Rajat Chandak, senior fund manager at ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund. He added that alternate sourcing arrangements are being explored, but scaling them will require government support. One option available to OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) is to import the entire motor, rather than just the magnets or rare earth minerals," he said. TVS Motor Co., for a second month in a row, flagged a similar concern in its June update, noting that magnet availability remains a challenge in the short to medium term". Its EV sales dropped to 14,400 units in June from 27,976 in May. Also Read | India may ease auto local norms amid magnet supply crisis Demand remains sluggish Soft domestic demand is adding to the auto sectors complexity. Growth in FY26 is expected to remain in low single digits across most auto segments, said Arun Agarwal, vice presidentfundamental research, at Kotak Securities. Tractors may hold up slightly better than passenger vehicles, but overall momentum is weak, he said. Sales data for the April-June quarter released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) earlier this month showed mixed trends. Passenger vehicle sales crossed the 1 million mark, reaching 1.01 million units, but due to weaker sales toward the end of the quarter volumes declined 1.4% year-on-year. Two-wheeler sales fell 6.2% to 4.67 million units, largely due to inventory corrections across the industry. Three-wheeler sales in the financial first quarter hit a record 165,000 units, up 0.1% year-on-year, driven by the passenger carrier segment. Commercial vehicle sales declined marginally by 0.6% to 223,000 units. Looking ahead to Q2, the overall industry outlook remains cautiously optimistic," Siam said. While challenges may persist in the near term, a few positive indicators could support a recovery: the upcoming festive season may lift demand for passenger vehicles and two-wheelers; above-normal monsoons could boost rural income and entry-level vehicle sales; and the Reserve Bank of Indias 100-basis-point (bps) rate cuts this year could eventually improve affordability and consumer sentiment. However, the supply-side challengesespecially the recent export licensing requirement from China on rare earth magnetshave been a concern for OEMs of all categories," Siam said. Agarwal cautioned that prolonged softness could force automakers to resort to discounting, putting margins under pressure. Low volumes hurt operating leverage, putting further pressure on profitability," he said. Earnings on watch Kotak Institutional Equities expects auto companies it covers to report 1% revenue growth for the first quarter, supported by mid-single-digit growth in vehicles and price realization gains, partly offset by deeper discounts and weak global sales. We expect Ebitda margins to decline by 210 bps (year-on-year), driven by higher discounts, commodity headwinds (tires), higher advertisement spends and tariff-related hits," the brokerage said in a 2 July report. For auto ancillary companies, the revenue outlook appears slightly stronger. Kotak expects 6.6% year-on-year revenue growth in the first quarter, driven by low- to mid-single-digit growth in vehicles and mid- to high-single-digit gains in replacement segments like tyres and bearings. Tractor-linked volumes are expected to rise in the low teens. However, even ancillaries arent immune to pressures. Kotak expects Ebitda margins to decline 60 basis points year-on-year due to weaker product mix (batteries), raw material headwinds (tires), and a weaker export mix. The brokerage added that companies with exposure to the global auto market are likely to report weak numbers, given decline in production volumes, especially in the US. Auto makers will begin reporting their June-quarter earnings on 23 July, with Force Motors scheduled to announce first. Investors will be watching closely to see whether earnings justify the recent stock gainsor reveal signs of overreach. Indian equity benchmarks closed on a flat to negative note on 22 July, with the Nifty slipping 30 points, or 0.12%, to settle at 25,060. Despite a positive start, the indices failed to sustain early gains, ending the session under pressure from broad-based selling. All sectoral indices closed in the red, with Media (-2.5%), PSU Bank (-1.6%), Realty (-1%), Pharma (-0.9%), and Auto (-0.6%), reflecting cautious sentiment across sectors. Two stock recommendations for today by MarketSmith India: Krn Heat Exchanger And Refrigeration Ltd (current price: 849.90) Why its recommended: Strong financial performance, expansion plans and capacity enhancement, established clientele, and export growth. Key metrics: P/E: 126.20 | 52-week high: 1,012.00 | Volume: 75.52 crore Technical analysis: Bounced back from its 100-DMA on above-average volume. Risk factors: Customer concentration risk, supplier dependency, liquidity and working capital concerns, and intense industry competition. Buy: 849.9 Target price: 980 in two to three months Stop loss: 790 Garware Technical Fibres Ltd (current price: 961) Why its recommended: Leadership in technical textiles, export-focused business model, and rising demand in aquaculture. Key metrics: P/E: 39.46 | 52-week high: 984 | Volume: 30.08 crore Technical analysis: Horizontal trendline breakout Risk factors: Export dependency and currency volatility, raw material price volatility. Buy at: 961 Target price: 430 in two to three months. Stop loss: 363 How Nifty 50 performed on 22 July Markets remained range-bound and closed nearly flat, reflecting a pause amid mixed cues. After a positive start, the Nifty gradually lost momentum in the first half and moved sideways for the remainder of the session. Most major sectors ended in the red, with Pharma, Realty, and Auto leading the decline. The broader indices followed suit, each shedding nearly 0.5%. The advance-decline ratio stood at 1:1, indicating a balanced market breadth. The index successfully reclaimed both its 50-DMA and the key psychological level of 25,000, signalling a potential shift in sentiment. The intraday reversal pattern, along with the formation of a bullish candle near the 50-day SMA, suggests that the ongoing pullback may continue in the near term. On the daily chart, the relative strength index (RSI) has turned sideways and is approaching 47, indicating signs of a reversal. However, the daily MACD remains in a downtrend with a negative crossover above the zero line, highlighting that bearish undertones persist. According to O'Neils methodology of market direction, market status has been downgraded to an "Uptrend Under Pressure" as Nifty breached its "50-DMA" and the "distribution day count" rose to five. The index managed to hold above its 50-DMA in a volatile session, ultimately closing flata sign of indecision among traders and investors. To regain bullish momentum, a decisive breakout and sustained close above 25,300 is essential. On the downside, failure to hold above 24,900 could lead to further weakness, with potential support levels at 24,750 and 24,500 in the coming sessions. How Nifty Bank performed yesterday On Tuesday, the Nifty Bank started the day on a positive note. However, as the session progressed, heightened volatility led the index to slide into negative territory. A bearish candle was formed on the daily chart, with a higher-high and higher-low price structure. The index breached its 21-DMA, signalling a shift in the prevailing trend. Despite this, the market continued to display caution, with price action indicating indecision among traders. The momentum indicator, RSI, dipped slightly and hovered around 51, reflecting a neutral market sentiment. Meanwhile, the MACD remained above its central line, though it continued to show a negative crossover. Traders should monitor key levels closely for any potential breakouts or further consolidation. According to ONeils methodology of market direction, the Nifty Bank remains in a 'Confirmed Uptrend', a status it has successfully maintained over the past few weeks. Also Read | Margin pain hits HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, but one of them has a bigger buffer The Nifty Bank is currently trading comfortably above its 50-DMA, facing resistance near 57,500. The 50-DMA continues to serve as a crucial support zone, helping to cushion near-term declines. A sustained close below this level could trigger a further downward move to 55,000. Conversely, a decisive close above 57,500 may open the door for a fresh upward move toward 58,500. MarketSmith India is a stock research platform and advisory service focused on the Indian stock market. It offers tools and resources to help investors make informed decisions based on the CAN SLIM methodology, founded by legendary investor William J. O'Neil. You can access a 10-day free trial by registering on its website. Trade name: William ONeil India Pvt. Ltd. Sebi Registration No.: INH000015543 Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Eternal share price extended its gains for the third consecutive session on Wednesday. In the previous session, the stock jumped over 10% to hit a fresh 52-week high of 311.60 apiece on the BSE. The rally lifted Eternals market capitalisation to over 3 lakh crore, positioning it among the top 26 companies in the Nifty 50 index. The shares of food delivery giant Zomatos parent company has surged 18% over the past three sessions, and have now surpassed the market capitalisation of several established names, including Wipro ( 2.72 lakh crore), Tata Motors ( 2.52 lakh crore), Coal India ( 2.40 lakh crore), Bajaj Auto, Asian Paints, and Nestle India. State-run PowerGrid Corporation was trading with a market value near 2.78 lakh crore. Eternal share price has witnessed significant growth since its stock market debut on July 23, 2021, exactly four years back. The company was listed at 116 per share on the NSE, a 52.63% premium over its IPO issue price of 76, giving it a market cap of over 1 lakh crore on listing day. Since then, Eternal has become part of the benchmark Nifty 50 index and has outpaced several legacy companies in terms of market value. Eternal Q1 Results: Blinkit Emerges as Growth Driver Zomatos parent company reported a 90% year-on-year (YoY) decline in net profit during the first quarter of FY26, falling to 25 crore. Despite the plunge in profit, revenue from operations surged 70% YoY to 7,167 crore during the quarter. For the first time, Blinkits net order value (NOV) exceeded that of Eternals core food delivery business on a full-quarter basis. The company noted that, on an annualised basis, total NOV across its B2C businesses has reached nearly $10 billion, with Blinkit now contributing close to 50% of that figure. Blinkits Q1 FY26 revenue jumped to 2,400 crore, compared to 942 crore in the same quarter last year. Gross order value (GOV) for Blinkit grew 140% YoY. The business also showed improvement on the profitability front, with adjusted EBITDA loss narrowing to 162 crore from 178 crore in Q4 FY25. Eternal once again surprised us positively on Blinkit. This time though, the surprise was more on management commentary than the reported numbers, as it was quite a contrast to the cautious tone post Q4FY25 results, JM Financial said. Notably, the company stated that Blinkit's EBITDA losses have peaked both in margin and absolute terms and that its transition to an inventory-led model over the next 23 quarters could improve margins by approximately 100 basis points (as a percentage of NOV), while requiring only limited working capital. Eternal also indicated plans to nearly double Blinkits dark store count from 1,544 to 3,000, further highlighting its aggressive expansion strategy. Some Operational Misses Despite the strong performance of Blinkit, there were some concerns in Eternals Q1 results. The adjusted EBITDA margin for the food delivery business contracted sequentially for the first time in 14 quarters. Additionally, there was an unexpected rise in investments in Bistro a venture operated by Blinkit. Nonetheless, JM Financial believes the positives in Blinkit are likely to outweigh the misses in other businesses. The brokerage firm reiterated Eternal as its preferred pick with a Buy rating on the stock, and an unchanged target price of 320 June 2026, implying a price-to-earnings ratio (PER) of 75x. Eternal Share Price Performance Eternal share price has gained 18% in one month and more than 25% in three months. The stock has rallied 35% over the past six months, while it has risen 9% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. Eternal share price has delivered multibagger returns of 273% in two years and a staggering 460% in three years. At 1:50 PM, Eternal share price was trading 0.37% higher at 300.95 apiece, with a market-cap of 2,90,427.30 crore, on the BSE. Mumbai [India], : Indian stock markets continued their upward momentum on Wednesday, with both key indices, the Nifty 50 and the BSE Sensex, posting early gains. This positive movement came as investor confidence received a major boost following the recent trade agreement between the United States and Japan. The Nifty 50 index opened at 25,138.50, registering a gain of 77.60 points or 0.31 per cent. Similarly, the BSE Sensex began the day on a stronger note at 82,429.66, rising by 242.85 points or 0.30 per cent. Experts attributed the bullish sentiment to the recent US-Japan deal, which settled tariffs at 15 per cent on Japanese goods, instead of the previously feared 25 per cent. This has lifted investor morale across Asian markets. Ajay Bagga, Banking and Market Expert, told ANI, "Indian markets have held key support levels despite the twin headwinds of tariff uncertainty and weak earnings. The Japan deal raises hopes for a US-India deal in the ballpark 15 per cent range. That could be a huge catalyst for short covering and could lead to a regaining of the September 2024 all-time highs in the Indian markets. Today is promising to be a positive day, with massive inflows from DIIs countering the continued FPI outflows." The US-Japan deal is expected to lead to a short squeeze in Japan, with Japanese automaker stocks reportedly rising as much as 15 per cent in early Tokyo trade. The market now anticipates that similar deals may be announced with other major economies such as the EU and India, providing further support to global equity markets. Despite the positive open, technical analysts remained cautious. Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, noted, "The Nifty ended down 30 points to close at 25,061. Technically speaking, the market did break above the first hurdle at 25,144 yesterday but wasn't able to close above it, and that's not a good sign. To reiterate, unless we break 25,340 on a closing basis, bulls have very little going for them from these levels. Asian cues are positive due to Japan securing a trade deal with the US." In the broader market, indices on the NSE showed mixed trends. The Nifty 100 was up by 0.15 per cent, while the Nifty 200 gained 0.10 per cent. However, the Nifty Midcap index fell by 0.14 per cent, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 declined by 0.33 per cent. Sector wise performance was also mixed. The Nifty Auto index surged by 1 per cent, supported by gains in Japanese automobile stocks. Nifty Metal gained 0.36 per cent, while Nifty PSU Bank posted a 0.16 per cent increase. On the downside, the Nifty FMCG, IT, and Media indices registered losses. Commenting on the technical outlook, Vikram Kasat, Head, Advisory, PL Capital said, "The tug of war between the bulls and the bears continues. Nifty is failing to cross and sustain above the 40HEMA, which has now moved lower to 25,104. Sustaining above the 40HEMA and closing above the high hourly high of 25,182 can hint towards a trend reversal as it would reinforce a higher top, higher bottom formation. The low of 24,882 will be an important support level." As the markets digest the implications of the US-Japan deal, all eyes are now on potential trade developments involving India, which could serve as a further trigger for the next leg of the market rally. Indian stock market today: Frontline indices, the Sensex and the Nifty 50, clocked healthy gains on Wednesday, July 23, supported by positive global cues and buying in select heavyweights, including HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank. The Sensex opened at 82,451.87 against its previous close of 82,186.81 and rose 600 points, or 0.73 per cent, to an intraday high of 82,786.43. The NSE counterpart Nifty 50 started the day at 25,139.35 against the previous close of 25,060.90 and reclaimed the 25,200 mark, climbing 0.70 per cent to an intraday high of 25,233.50. Finally, the Sensex closed 540 points, or 0.66 per cent, higher at 82,726.64, while the Nifty 50 ended the day at 25,219.90, up 159 points, or 0.63 per cent. The BSE Midcap index rose by 0.24 per cent, while the Smallcap index ended with a nominal gain of 0.05 per cent. The overall market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms rose to 460.35 lakh crore from 458.45 lakh crore in the previous session, making investors richer by almost 2 lakh crore in a day. What drove the Indian stock market higher? The Indian stock market clocked healthy gains on buying in select heavyweights, including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Bharti Airtel, Reliance Industries, and Bajaj Finance. Positive global cues after US President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with Japan also influenced sentiment. Trump said the US and Japan had finalised a trade deal, under which a 15 per cent tariff will be levied on Japanese imports into the US. A deal with Japan has rekindled hopes that the US may soon settle deals with other major economies, including India and China. News agency PTI reported that a team of US trade officials will visit India in August for the next round of talks on the proposed bilateral trade pact between the two nations. Experts highlight another key factor keeping the market resilient: better-than-expected Q1 results from financial majors. For example, the Q1 results of ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank suggest that Street expectations of a subdued quarter for banking majors may have been overblown. "A significant takeaway from the early Q1 results is the improving prospects of banking and digital stocks. In banking, the market will be choosy with focus on the high-quality private sector banks, particularly ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank," VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments, observed. "Q1 results of Eternal and Paytm indicate steady growth potential of the digital stocks, which have a long runway of growth. Investor interest in the digital segment will remain high despite the high valuations," said Vijayakumar. Ajit Mishra, SVP of research at Religare Broking, underscored that the recovery is being driven primarily by strength in banking majors, while heavyweights from other key sectors are showing signs of stabilisation following the recent correction. Nifty's technical outlook On the technical front, the Nifty 50 formed a bullish candle on the daily charts, indicating positive sentiment in the market. According to Shrikant Chouhan, the head of equity research at Kotak Securities, for positional traders, the 50-day SMA (simple moving average) at 25,060 and 25,100 would act as key support zones. "As long as the market trades above these levels, the bullish sentiment is likely to continue. On the higher side, the 20-day SMA or 25,325 could serve as the immediate hurdle for the bulls. A successful breakout above these levels could push the market towards 25,40025,475," said Chouhan. Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, highlighted that the Nifty has moved above the 21-day EMA on the daily timeframe, indicating an increase in bullish sentiment. He further underscored that the RSI on the daily chart is in a bullish crossover and rising above the 50 mark, further reinforcing the positive momentum. "In the short term, sentiment is likely to remain optimistic. On the higher side, Nifty may move towards 25,500, while support is placed at 24,900. A break below this level could weaken the current trend," said De. Read all market-related news here Read more stories by Nishant Kumar Shares of low-cost carrier SpiceJet soared 6 percent in intra-day trading on Wednesday, July 23, after the Supreme Court dismissed the special leave petitions filed by Kalanithi Maran and KAL Airways in a long-running legal dispute. The apex court upheld the Delhi High Court's decision to reject their 1,323 crore damages claim against the airline, providing much-needed legal relief to the financially stressed carrier. SC Dismisses Damages Claim A Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Atul S Chandurkar dismissed the special leave petitions filed by KAL Airways and its promoter Kalanithi Maran, effectively closing the door on their efforts to seek damages from SpiceJet over a failed share transfer deal. "Both the special leave petitions are dismissed," the court stated, marking a definitive end to the appeal process. Earlier, the Delhi High Court had declined to condone a 55-day delay in filing and a 226-day delay in re-filing the appeal, citing what it called a calculated gamble by the appellants and accusing them of deliberately concealing facts from the court and SpiceJet. The concept of condonation of delay is governed by the Limitation Act, which typically allows 90 days to file an appeal; any delay beyond that requires a credible explanationsomething the courts said was lacking in this case. Case Timeline and Background The dispute originated in 2015 when Maran and KAL Airways transferred their 58.46 percent controlling stake in SpiceJet to its original founder Ajay Singh. The transfer came at a time when the airline was facing a severe financial crisis, prompting Singh to take over operations and liabilities. Maran and KAL later claimed they had paid for convertible warrants and preference shares worth over 1,300 crore, which they alleged were never issued. The case went into arbitration, where an initial ruling favoured KAL Airways. However, the Delhi High Court subsequently set aside the arbitral award, a decision that was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2024. Following this, KAL Airways and Maran attempted to revive their damages claim through the High Court and later the apex courtboth of which rejected their appeals. According to legal news platform Bar and Bench, the Supreme Court found the appellants conduct to be lacking in good faith and part of a deliberate litigation strategy, rather than a result of negligence or delay. SpiceJets Response and Financial Snapshot SpiceJet had earlier welcomed the Delhi High Courts decision, stating that a panel of three retired Supreme Court judges had already examined and rejected the damages claim. The airline reiterated that Marans repeated attempts to revive the case amounted to judicial overreach. The ruling comes at a time when SpiceJet is grappling with financial stress and a shrinking market share amid multiple operational challenges. As of March 2025, the airline reported a net worth of 683 crore, supported by a 500 crore equity infusion from its promoter group, which included 294 crore added in the March quarter. The airline has also entered strategic partnerships with StandardAero and Carlyle Aviation to accelerate engine overhauls and fleet expansion. As part of its summer schedule, SpiceJet launched 24 new domestic flights and added new destinations such as Dehradun, Porbandar, and Tuticorin. By the end of 2025, the airline aims to operate a fleet of 52 aircraft, most of which will be leased on wet or dry terms. Stock Price Movement Following the Supreme Court verdict, SpiceJet shares rose as much as 6 percent to an intra-day high of 40.42. However, the stock remains over 49 percent below its 52-week high of 79.90, touched in September 2024. It recently hit a 52-week low of 37.87 earlier this month. Over the past year, the stock has declined by 30 percent. The share price has remained under pressure in 2025, falling 12 percent in June and 6.4 percent in May. While April saw a brief recovery with an 8.4 percent gain, the preceding months were also negativedown 11.8 percent in January, 6 percent in February, and 3.4 percent in March. July so far has seen a marginal decline of 0.3 percent. Stock market today: India's stock benchmarks opened higher on Wednesday, following the upward trend in their Asian counterparts after the US disclosed a trade agreement with Japan, raising hopes for additional deals. Nevertheless, the ongoing uncertainty regarding the interim trade agreement between India and the US, ahead of President Donald Trump's August 1 deadline, restrained the advances in the Indian market. The Nifty 50 increased by 0.22% to reach 25,122.75 points, while the Sensex climbed 0.30% to 82,430.50 as of 9:15 IST. Japanese stocks spearheaded the rally in Asian markets on Wednesday following the announcement of the trade agreement. MSCI's widest index for Asia-Pacific stocks, excluding Japan, also rose by 0.7%. Also Read | Breakout stocks to buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends five shares to buy Nifty 50 Outlook by Sagar Doshi, Senior Vice President- Research, Nuvama Professional Clients Group Nifty 50 Nifty 50 has entered a consolidation zone once again, though broader trend indicates upside from current levels, but absence of tailwinds are keeping the index in range. We continue with our view on a broad consolidation between 24,800 and 25,320 for the balance of this week, given the chart structure and positioning based on derivative data. On the options front as well, given tomorrow weekly expiry, highest call and put writing is seen at 25,200 and 24,800 respectively, furthering our stance on rangebound play for this week. Bank Nifty After reclaiming its resistance of 56,750 in Mondays session, the index is now eyeing for a break above 57,100 to allow momentum on the long side on Bank Nifty 50. Outperformance against Nifty 50 which has been the powering the underlying current on this index, a close above 57,100 is now essential for the outperformance to continue. On the flip side, closing below 56,200 could allow downward pressure on the index. Also Read | Breakout stocks to buy or sell: Sumeet Bagadia recommends five shares to buy Stock Picks: Stocks To Buy on Wednesday- Sagar Doshi On stocks to buy on Wednesday, Sagar Doshi of Nuvama recommended three stocks - Balkrishna Industries Ltd, Hindalco Industries Ltd, and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M). Balkrishna Industries (BUY): LCP: 2,756.90; SL: 2,680; TGT: 3,030 Balkrishna Industries share price has given a cup and handle breakout on daily chart at the start of this week. This pattern has been in place from the start of this calendar year marking an end of its 6 month consolidation. Given the set up this suggests for a 10-12% upside from current levels. Hindalco Industries (BUY): LCP: 690; SL: 668; TGT: 730 Hindalco share price has given a 9 month trendline breakout same time last month, but the stock had been missing follow through, a retest and back to the breakout price has made way for a follow through to play out. Stock has also sustained above its 200 DMA for four consecutive weeks now, enabling for further upside on charts. M&M (BUY): LCP: 3,257.20; SL: 3,150; TGT: 3,600 Breaking out from its 5 month consolidation, M&M share price had shown early signs of reclaiming its all-time high given the cup and handle breakout last month. A retest of the same neckline has also been complete furthering the stance for another 10-12% upside from CMP. M&M has also given highest ever closing yesterday on daily charts. On Tuesday, 22 July, the Indian stock market moved in a narrow range as investors took a cautious stance, reflecting a consolidative phase after recent gains. While the benchmark indices closed marginally in the red, the underlying tone of the market remained rotational, with select sectors showing resilience and leadership. Top three stocks recommended by Ankush Bajaj for 23 July: ONE 97 COMMUNICATIONS LTDCurrent price: 1,051.05 Why its recommended: ONE 97 COMMUNICATIONS LTD has given a rectangle breakout at the 1,050 level on the daily chart, indicating a shift from consolidation to an upward trend. On lower timeframes, the MACD is at 15.75, reflecting strong bullish momentum and increasing buyer interest. The breakout is accompanied by positive price action and volume confirmation, enhancing the probability of a continued up-move. Key metrics Breakout zone: Rectangle breakout on daily chart around 1,050 Pattern: Range breakout with bullish strength on lower timeframe MACD: Positive at 15.75, showing rising momentum Volume: Supporting the breakout, indicating conviction Technical analysis: With the breakout confirmed and momentum building up, the stock shows potential to rally toward the 1,095-1,105 zone in the near term. Risk factors: A close below 1,030 will invalidate the breakout and may signal short-term weakness. A disciplined stop-loss at 1,030 is recommended. Buy at: 1,051.05 Target price: 1,0951,105 Stop loss: 1,030.00 DALMIA BHARAT LTDCurrent price: 2,320.20 Why its recommended: DALMIA BHARAT LTD has shown strong bullish behaviour backed by technical momentum. The RSI is at 73, indicating strong buying interest, while the MACD at 40.75 signals sustained upward momentum. On lower timeframes, the stock has broken out from a triangle pattern, confirming the beginning of a new leg higher. Key metrics Breakout zone: Triangle breakout on lower timeframes Pattern: Triangle breakout with strength RSI: Strong at 73, indicating bullish pressure MACD: Positive at 40.75, highlighting upward momentum Technical analysis: With a confirmed breakout and momentum support, DALMIA BHARAT is likely to head toward 2,4002,420 in the short term. Risk factors: A close below 2,280 may invalidate the bullish setup. Keep a firm stop-loss at 2,280. Buy at: 2,320.20 Target price: 2,4002,420 Stop loss: 2,280.00 UPL LTDCurrent price: 722.85 Why its recommended: UPL LTD has broken out of a triangle pattern on the daily chart, signalling a bullish continuation. The RSI at 72 indicates sustained buying strength, and the MACD at 14.28 confirms rising momentum. This alignment of pattern and indicators makes the case for an upside rally compelling. Key metrics Breakout zone: Triangle breakout on daily chart Pattern: Bullish triangle breakout RSI: High at 72, showing consistent buying interest MACD: Positive at 14.28, signaling strong upward push Technical analysis: With a well-formed pattern and solid indicator alignment, the stock is likely to head toward 800 in the near term. Risk factors: A close below 684 would invalidate the bullish view. A protective stop-loss is essential at 684. Buy at: 722.85 Target price: 800.00 Stop loss: 684.00 Market wrap The Nifty 50 slipped slightly by 29.80 points or 0.12%, closing at 25,060.90, while the BSE Sensex edged down by just 13.53 points or 0.02%, ending at 82,186.81. The Nifty Bank also eased by 196.75 points or 0.35% to settle at 56,756.00, despite some pockets of buying in financial counters during intraday trade. Sector-wise, the action remained stock- and theme-specific. PSU banks declined 1.57%, the Realty sector dipped 1.01%, and the Pharma sector slipped 1.00%, indicating a mild bout of profit-taking. On the other hand, strong interest continued in defensive and consumption-led themes. The consumption index gained 0.46%, the services sector rose 0.23%, and the finance index climbed 0.01%, helping cushion the broader market. On the stock front, Eternal stood out with an impressive 10.34% rally, while HDFC Life Insurance and Hindalco added 1.46% and 1.15% respectively, supported by positive institutional sentiment and stability in the financial and metals space. Conversely, Shriram Finance (-2.36%), Eicher Motors (-2.13%), and Jio Financial (-2.03%) faced selling pressure, showing signs of rotation away from recent outperformers. Nifty technical analysisdaily and hourly The Nifty ended Tuesdays session on a muted note, closing at 25,060.90, down 29.80 points or 0.12%. The index opened on a strong note but gradually lost momentum through the day, ending in negative territory. Despite the intraday weakness, the Nifty managed to hold above the psychological support level of 25,000, reinforcing its role as a crucial near-term base. View Full Image The Nifty managed to hold above the psychological support level of 25,000. From a technical perspective, the Nifty continues to trade above its 40-day exponential moving average (25,042) but remains below the 20-day simple moving average, which stands at 25,324. This configuration suggests that while the index is holding ground, upside strength remains constrained unless it decisively breaks and sustains above the 20-DMA. On the hourly chart, the index is currently positioned above the 20-hour SMA (25,036) but still below the 40-hour EMA (25,104), indicating consolidation within a narrow range and a lack of clear directional bias in the short term. View Full Image The Nifty continues to trade above its 40-day exponential moving average but remains below the 20-day simple moving average. Momentum indicators are showing signs of cooling off. The daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) has eased slightly to 46.65, suggesting a mild loss of strength in the ongoing trend. The hourly RSI also stands at 47, reflecting softening intraday momentum. On the MACD front, the daily MACD has dropped to +14, showing a deceleration in upward momentum, while the hourly MACD remains negative at -9, which reinforces the view that short-term trend strength is lacking. In the derivatives space, the options data continues to paint a bearish picture. Total Call open interest stands at 168.7 million, significantly higher than the total Put OI of 119.1 million, resulting in a net difference of 49.6 million. This skew in favour of Calls indicates overhead supply and suggests limited room for upside unless fresh buying emerges. The Put-Call Ratio (PCR) remains low at 0.71, reflecting continued caution among traders. Looking at strike-wise data, the highest Call OI lies at the 25,100 level, with fresh additions at 25,200, both of which are now key resistance levels to watch. On the Put side, the highest OI is parked at 25,000, with fresh writing seen at the 25,050 strike, signalling that traders expect the index to hold above these levels. However, the change in OI is notably skewed, with Call OI rising by 35.9 million and Put OI increasing by just 5.254 million, resulting in a net change of 30.7 milliona clear indication that bearish sentiment has intensified in the near term. Also Read | Margin pain hits HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, but one of them has a bigger buffer India VIX remained largely unchanged, keeping volatility expectations low and supporting a wait-and-watch stance among participants. In summary, while Nifty has managed to defend the 25,000 mark, the inability to cross above the key resistance zone of 25,100-25,324 is keeping the broader structure neutral with a slight bearish tilt. The immediate support lies in the 25,000-24,950 zone, and a breach below this could attract fresh selling pressure, dragging the index towards 24,700. On the upside, a sustained move above 25,324 will be necessary to reinstate bullish momentum. Until then, traders are advised to remain cautious and avoid aggressive long positions in the absence of a clear breakout. Ankush Bajaj is a Sebi-registered research analyst. His registration number is INH000010441. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantee performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. TSC India IPO: The initial public offering (IPO) of TSC India opened for subscription on July 23 and closed on July 25. Through this SME IPO, the company plans to raise 25.89 crore, with a price band set between 68 and 70 per share. TSC India IPO Subscription The TSC India IPO was booked 73.21 times as of the third day of the bidding process. The retail investor portion was subscribed 66.47 times, while the non-institutional investor (NII) category saw a subscription of 133.17 times. As of the latest update, the qualified institutional buyer (QIB) segment was booked 40.03 times. TSC India GMP today The company's shares were trading at a 12 premium in the grey market, suggesting a positive listing. Based on this, the estimated listing price remains at 82, as 17% listing pop. One must note that grey market premium is only an indicator of how the company's shares are performing in the unlisted market and can change quickly. About the IPO TSC India Limited's initial public offering (IPO), entirely a fresh issue comprising 36.98 lakh equity shares, is open for subscription with no offer-for-sale (OFS) component. The IPO is aimed at raising funds to support the companys working capital requirements, issue-related expenses, and general corporate purposes. Retail investors looking to subscribe were required to apply for a minimum of 2,000 shares, with the minimum investment set at 2.72 lakh, equivalent to two lots (4,000 shares). The price band and issue size position it within the higher investment bracket for SME IPOs. Ahead of the issue opening on July 22, 2025, TSC India successfully raised 7.35 crore through anchor investors, underscoring initial institutional confidence in the offer. The IPO allotment status is expected to be finalised on Monday, July 28, with equity shares likely to be credited to successful applicants' Demat accounts by Tuesday, July 29. Refunds for unsuccessful applicants will also be processed the same day. The company is scheduled to make its market debut on the NSE SME platform on Wednesday, July 30. The IPO is being managed by Expert Global Consultants Private Limited as the book-running lead manager, while Bigshare Services Pvt Ltd serves as the registrar. Prabhat Financial Services Ltd is acting as the market maker for the issue. TSC India Limited operates in the B2B travel management space, offering air ticketing services to travel agents, corporations, and tour operators. While the company has reported steady growth in top-line numbers in recent periods, analysts have raised concerns about margin sustainability due to a highly competitive and fragmented industry. Market expert Dilip Davda from Chittorgarh.com gave the IPO a may apply rating. He noted that while the company has demonstrated growth, static bottom-line figures for FY24 and FY25 and high competition in the segment are potential red flags. Davda advised well-informed investors to consider parking moderate funds for the medium term. About the Company Incorporated in 2003, TSC India Limited has established itself as a leading player in the B2B and corporate travel management space, offering end-to-end air ticketing solutions tailored to client needs. With a strategic focus on delivering cost-effective and streamlined travel services, the company collaborates with a wide network of airlines and travel agents. TSC India handles all aspects of business travel planningfrom flight bookings to curated corporate itinerariescatering to travel agencies, tour operators, and corporate clients across India. Its presence spans multiple cities including Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, New Delhi, and Pune, underscoring its expanding national footprint. With over 2,100 clients registered as of June 30, 2024, the companys operations reflect high volume and efficiency. TSC India manages more than 420 bookings daily, 3,000 weekly, and 12,000 monthly, showcasing its robust backend systems and trusted customer service. Earlier this year, during the Manch Theatre Festival in Mumbai, Sapan Saran, founding member of the theatre company Studio Tamaasha and actor Sukant Goel addressed a set of young theatre enthusiasts. They shared their journeys through the labyrinths of Mumbais theatre ecosystem. Though their stories were vastly different, they had one thing in commonserendipitious beginnings that led them to strong mentors. For instance, it was a chance meeting with Satyadev Dubey which led Goel to embark on a decade-long career on stage. But such instances are only few and far in between. What about avenues for regular guidance and mentorship for aspiring theatre practitioners? Should you opt for workshops or head straight to a theatre school? Or make a beeline to the auditions and learn as you go? Saran admits that in an unorganised industry, there is no set answer. This is where the aptly-named Pehela structured programme for theatre beginners by Studio Tamaashacomes in. In a city where actor training programmes can be found by the dozen, Pehel makes its intentions clearit is not a skill development initiative but one that introduces beginners to the requirements and ecosystem of theatre in Mumbai. In fact, the posters dont reveal the name of the director-facilitator for the batch. It is Sarans attempt to make sure that the marketing aligns with the intention of the programme. Spread over four days, starting on the first Monday of every month, every batch is guided by a director. The first one was held in May this year. They are a mix of experienced names like Sunil Shanbag, Saran herself, and Sukant Goel, and young makers like Vaishnavi RP, Atif Ally Dagman, and Nikhita Singh. The first part of the programme introduces participants to the history of Mumbai theatre and all the information they need to understand the system they are looking to inhabit. The second half is reserved for scene work. We want the program to have a tangible element. Scene work is for actors, directors and playwrights. You discuss motives and characters," Saran explains, adding, It also helps them see that there is a certain level of skill required to pursue any avenue of theatre. Plus, they do something together that helps build bonds." For ultra-high-net-worth families, a foreign education for their children is now a default milestone in their long-term planning. It is not just an academic decision but also a strategy for global mobility, wealth planning, and legacy building. Today, nearly every HNI family either has a child studying overseas or one preparing for it. This journey for a family is centred around numerous financial decisions and hence regulations. Following is a breakdown of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations, key tax implications and strategic planning steps required to help families approach international education in a compliant and future-ready manner. As costs rise and global regulations evolve, a well-structured approach has become more essential than ever. Also Read | Understanding the investment biases of ultra-high-net-worth individuals The Indian regulatory framework For UHNI families with diverse portfolios, family offices or international holdings, funding their childs education can be a complex process. It includes coordinating multiple sources of funding, managing international bank accounts in the childs name and offshore investments. Navigating these complexities requires clarity on the regulatory framework set by the RBI. Under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), governed by the RBI, students going abroad for education are classified as non-resident Indians (NRIs) from the time they leave India, provided their intention is to stay abroad for an uncertain period, even if the course has a defined duration. This decision was made considering that many students work part-time or receive scholarships, making them financially independent from their families in India. Once designated as NRIs, they are entitled to a range of benefits: Students can receive remittances from close relatives in India based on a simple self-declaration Remittances of up to $1 million from sale proceeds or balances in Indian accounts Continuation of educational loans availed in India before departure Access to all other NRI facilities under FEMA Keeping these benefits in consideration, UHNI families can plan their wealth management and international mobility goals efficiently. Also Read | Funding your future: The essential guide to education loans in India Considerations for UHNI families UHNI families typically have more complex wealth structures and longer planning horizons. Here are a few ways in which they can ensure a smooth and compliant process, keeping all their goals in mind: Think about education early on: Consider the childs international education as part of broader goals such as global citizenship, future residency and succession planning. Use the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) effectively: LRS allows individuals to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for purposes including tuition fees and living expenses. Once classified as NRIs, students can receive remittances of up to USD 1 million from Indian accounts. Time the switch to NRI status: Examine the time at which the student should adopt NRI status. Parents must plan finances carefully before the students residential status changes to non-resident, as gifts from resident parents to an NRI child are capped under the LRS limit. Establishing offshore trusts, utilizing the familys investment vehicles and restructuring ownership of international assets before the child transitions to NRI status are some ways to future-proof compliance and control. Factor in rising international tuition fees and visa policies: Several countries have recently revised tuition fee structures, often creating a stark difference between local and international students. For example, Canada now charges international students nearly five times the fee domestic students pay. Countries like Norway and Finland, previously known for free or subsidised education, now charge non-EU students upwards of 13,000 and 4,000 to 18,000 respectively. Meanwhile, English-taught programs in countries like Czech Republic or Sweden can cost up to 18,500 annually. Post-study work visa policies also vary widely. The US offers Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 visa holders, with extensions for STEM graduates; the UK provides a 2-year Graduate Route (3 for PhDs); Canada allows up to 3 years under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP); and Australia permits stays of 2 to 6 years based on degree level and location. Other countries like Germany, Finland, Ireland and Singapore offer temporary work permits or pathways to long-term residence depending on employment. These dynamics influence decisions such as long-term residency, making strategic education planning even more critical for UHNI families. Alternatively, families may choose to explore residency or citizenship by investment to reduce the impact of rising fees and visa limitations. Also Read | Indias elite is embracing overseas investments to unlock global wealth Ensure that all the tax and foreign worker programs are clearly understood in the host country. Choosing the right country and leveraging tax-efficient funding structures can help optimize both educational outcomes and wealth preservation. For UHNI families, it is imperative that they work with experienced, multi-jurisdictional advisors like immigration consultants, private bankers and wealth managers, and cross-border tax experts to align their children's education journey with broader legacy, wealth transfer and mobility goals. This ensures long-term compliance in asset structuring across jurisdictions. Ashvini Chopra, head family office solutions, Avendus Wealth Management. Views are personal. Gujarat's Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested four persons allegedly linked to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) a banned terror outfit - in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, news agency PTI reported. "Four persons linked to the proscribed terror outfit have been arrested," the anti-terror agency said in a statement. The arrested accused have been identified as Mohd Faiq from Delhi, Mohd Fardeen from Ahmedabad, Sefullah Kureshi from Modasa in Aravalli, and Zeeshan Ali from Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Confirming the arrests, Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi told news agency ANI that all four suspects were under surveillance for activities suspected to be connected to AQIS, a proscribed terror outfit affiliated with Al Qaeda. Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), a regional branch of the Al Qaeda network, has been active in spreading extremist ideology and recruiting individuals across South Asia. The arrest marks a significant step in Indias ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, following the deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives --most of them tourists. On Saturday, the Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) unit carried out raids at several locations across the Valley in connection with a terror-related case. According to police, operations were conducted at ten sites in Budgam, Pulwama, Ganderbal, and Srinagar, leading to the detention of ten suspects. Last year, the Delhi Police, in coordination with security forces from Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, successfully dismantled a terror module allegedly inspired by al-Qaeda. The operation led to the arrest of 14 individuals who were reportedly planning a series of high-profile terrorist attacks. According to a statement from the Delhi Police, The module, as per the current state of operations, was being led by one Dr Ishtiyaq of Ranchi (Jharkhand), and it was aspiring to declare 'khilafat' and execute serious terrorist activities within the country. Acting on critical intelligence inputs, the multi-state operation exposed the modules structure and intentions in August last year. The suspects were reportedly trained in handling weapons and radical ideology at different undisclosed locations. During the operation, six suspects were apprehended in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, where they were undergoing weapons training. Eight more individuals were taken into custody from various locations in Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh for further interrogation. Police also seized arms, ammunition, and extremist literature linked to the module's plans. In a deeply disturbing incident, a 23-year-old Indian man, Charanpreet Singh, was brutally assaulted and left unconscious on a street in Adelaide. The alleged racist attack occurred on Saturday night near Kintore Avenue in the heart of the city, reportedly following a car parking dispute. According to 9News, Singh was verbally abused with racial slurs before being repeatedly punched and left to die by the roadside. "They just said 'f--- off, Indian', and after that they just started punching," Singh told 9News from his hospital bed. "I tried to fight back, but they beat me until I was unconscious." This incident is the latest in a disturbing pattern of racially motivated violence targeting Indian nationals abroad. Recently, an Indian IT professional in Dublin was similarly assaulted and humiliated by a gang. Also Read | Indian man brutally beaten and stripped in racist attack in Dublin The young man sustained severe injuries, including brain trauma and multiple facial fractures. He was immediately rushed to hospital and remains under medical care. South Australia Police arrested a 20-year-old man from Enfield on Sunday and charged him with assault causing harm. However, the other attackers managed to flee the scene and are yet to be identified. Adelaide Police are now reviewing CCTV footage and have appealed to the public for assistance in locating the remaining assailants. Singh, who is a student in Adelaide, said the ordeal has left him deeply shaken. "Things like this, when they happen, it makes you feel like you should go back," he said. You can change anything in your body, but you can't change the colours. South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas strongly condemned the attack: "Any time we see any evidence of any racial attack, it is completely unwelcome in our state and just not consistent with where the majority of our community are at." Indian techie brutally beaten and stripped in racist attack in Dublin An Indian man in his 40s was hospitalised following a brutal and racially motivated assault in Tallaght, a suburb of Dublin, late on Saturday evening. The victim, who had arrived in Ireland only three weeks prior and is reported to work for Amazon, was viciously attacked by a group of teenage males after being falsely accused of inappropriate conduct near a childrens playground. Cash discovery row: Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai on Wednesday recused himself from hearing a plea filed by Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court. The petition challenges the in-house committee report that indicted Justice Varma following the recovery of a large amount of unaccounted cash from his official residence in Delhi. Also Read | Justice Yashwant Varma approaches SC over impeachment move in cash haul case Legal news website Bar and Bench reported that Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who appeared on behalf of Justice Varma, mentioned the matter before the CJI for urgent listing. "This raises some constitutional issues. If it can be listed as early as possible," Sibal requested. In response, CJI Gavai clarified why he would not be hearing the matter. "It will not be possible for me to take up this matter because I was also part of the committee. We will list it," the CJI stated. CJI Gavai was perhaps referring to his involvement in the process of initiating in-house action against Justice Varma during the tenure of former CJI Sanjiv Khanna. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union government is mulling an impeachment motion in the Parliament to remove Justice Varma from office. In his plea before the top court, Justice Varma has sought a declaration that the recommendation made by the former CJI Khanna for his removal as High Court judge be declared unconstitutional. Justice Varma has challenged the in-house procedure for investigating complaints against judges, arguing that it creates a parallel, extra-constitutional mechanism that "derogates" from the law that exclusively vests the power to remove High Court judges in the Parliament. He has contended that the In-House procedure lacks the safeguards provided under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. Justice Varma Cash Discovery Row On March 15, firefighters called to the Justice Varma bungalow in central Delhi discovered piles of burnt cash. Justice Varma has denied any link to the cash, and labelled allegations of impropriety against him and members of his family "preposterous". In what could be a plot straight out of a Netflix drama, a man was busted by Uttar Pradesh Police's Special Task Force (STF) for running a full-fledged embassy of a non-existent nation of West Arctica. The diplomatic scam was exposed when the UP STF raided a rented accommodation in Ghaziabad which was lined up with multiple luxury cars with diplomatic number plates. His diplomatic dreams did not stop at West Arctica! The accused, identified as Harsh Vardhan Jain a resident of Kavi Nagar in Ghaziabad of Uttar Pradesh also claimed to be the ambassador of Saborga, Poulvia, and Lodonia. The man had everything in his possession from stamps to photos (morphed) with prime ministers and presidents to forged passports of micronations. The only thing missing? Real nations. Also Read | Nithyananda made up Kailasa, now his followers are caught grabbing land in Bolivia: Here's what happened According to ADG Law and Order, Uttar Pradesh, the authorities during the raid also uncovered 12 diplomatic passports of micronation countries. Forged documents with the seal of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Two forged PAN cards. Thirty four seals of different countries and companies. Two forged press cards. Eighteen fake diplomatic number plates. 44,70,000 in cash. 44,70,000 in cash. Foreign currency of many countries. Documents of many companies. According to the STF's Noida unit, preliminary investigations suggest that Harsh Vardhan Jain was engaged in brokering deals by falsely promising job placements for companies and individuals in foreign countries. Also Read | Where is Nithyananda's fictional country Kailasa? He is also suspected to be involved in running a hawala racket through shell companies, the agency said. The accused also used morphed photos showing him with the prime minister, the president, and other dignitaries to mislead people. In 2011, Harsh Vardhan Jain was booked in a case related to the recovery of an illegal satellite phone. A doctor charged with giving Matthew Perry ketamine in the weeks leading up to the Friends star's overdose death is expected to plead guilty Wednesday. Dr Salvador Plasencia would be the fourth of five people charged in connection with Perry's death to plead guilty. Plasencia was to have gone on trial in August until the doctor agreed last month to plead guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine, according to the signed document filed in federal court in Los Angeles. He had previously pleaded not guilty, but in exchange for the guilty pleas prosecutors have agreed to drop three additional counts of distribution of ketamine and two counts of falsifying records. Also Read | Matthew Perry death: Doctor who supplied ketamine to actor to plead guilty Plasencia's attorneys emphasised in an email after he reached his agreement that he was not treating Matthew Perry at the time of his death and the ketamine that caused Mr Perry's death was not provided by Dr Plasencia. The remaining charges can carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, and there is no guarantee he'll get less, but he's likely to. Plasencia has been free on bond since shortly after his arrest in August. He will not be sentenced until a future hearing. The only remaining defendant who has not reached an agreement with the US Attorney's Office is Jasveen Sangha, who prosecutors allege is a drug dealer known as the Ketamine Queen and sold Perry the lethal dose. Her trial is scheduled to begin next month. She has pleaded not guilty. Also Read | Doctor to plead guilty to supplying ketamine to Friends star Matthew Perry According to prosecutors and co-defendants who reached their own deals, Plasencia illegally supplied Perry with a large amount of ketamine starting about a month before his death on October 28, 2023. According to a co-defendant, Plasencia in a text message called the actor a moron who could be exploited for money. Perry's personal assistant, his friend, and another doctor all agreed to plead guilty last year in exchange for their cooperation as the government sought to make their case against larger targets, Plasencia and Sangha. None have been sentenced yet. Perry was found dead by the assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. The medical examiner ruled that ketamine, typically used as a surgical anesthetic, was the primary cause of death. The actor had been using the drug through his regular doctor in a legal but off-label treatment for depression, which has become increasingly common. Perry, 54, began seeking more ketamine than his doctor would give him. Plasencia admitted in his plea agreement that another patient connected him with Perry, and that starting about a month before Perry's death, he illegally supplied the actor with 20 vials of ketamine totaling 100 mg of the drug, along with ketamine lozenges and syringes. He admitted to enlisting another doctor, Mark Chavez, to supply the drug for him, according to the court filings. I wonder how much this moron will pay, Plasencia texted Chavez, according to Chavez's plea agreement. After selling the drugs to Perry for $4,500, Plasencia allegedly asked Chavez if he could keep supplying them so they could become Perry's go-to, prosecutors said. India has sent a medical team consisting of two specialists and a nursing assistant from Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital, to assist with the treatment of the burn victims of the Bangladesh plane crash tragedy, that occurred on July 21. The team landed in Dhaka on Wednesday. They will begin their work at a designated hospital treating the patients from Thursday morning (July 24), reported ANI. The team's visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurance to extend all possible assistance and support to Bangladesh in the wake of the training jet crash in Dhaka that killed at least 29 people, and injured 171 others. Dhaka plane crash The tragic incident occurred after a Bangladesh Air Force training jet F-7 smashed in northern Dhaka's Milestone School and College premises, shortly after takeoff. Most of the people injured in the crash are students who are now admitted in various hospitals in Dhaka. Among those injured were teachers, school staff, firefighters, police, army, maids, electricians, and others, reported PTI. PM Narendra Modi condoles deaths On July 21, PM Narendra Modi had expressed condolences at the loss of lives in the tragic air crash in Dhaka and had conveyed assurances of support and assistance. "A team of burn-specialist Doctors and Nurses with necessary medical support are scheduled to visit Dhaka shortly to treat the victims", the Indian High Commission in Dhaka had said in a Facebook post. Onlookers gather at the gravesite of Md Ashikur Rahman Umair and two others who died after a military training jet crashed into their educational institution, in Dhaka on July 23, 2025. Grief gave way to anger in Bangladesh on July 22, a day after a fighter jet crashed into a school, killing 31 people, mostly children, in the country's deadliest aviation accident in decades. Most of the victims were pupils who had just been let out of class when the Chinese-made F-7 BJI aircraft slammed into the Milestone School and College. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN / AFP) "They will make an assessment of the condition of patients with recommendations for further treatment and specialised care in India as necessary", it added. How did the F-7 fighter jet crash? The Bangladesh Air Force F-7 fighter jet crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in Dhaka on Monday afternoon, shortly after takeoff. The jet was being piloted by Bangladeshi Air Force Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam Sagar, who had also died in the crash. The Maharashtra government has challenged a Bombay High Court judgment acquitting all 12 convicts in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts case in the Supreme Court on grounds including that the recovery of RDX from an accused was disbelieved on a "hyper-technical ground" that the seized explosives were not sealed with a lac seal. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis-led government rushed to the top court on July 22, a day after the high court acquitted all 12 accused, saying the prosecution utterly failed to prove the case against them and it was "hard to believe" that the accused had committed the crime. Earlier on Tuesday, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, on behalf of the state government, mentioned the plea before an apex court bench headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai and sought an urgent hearing. The court agreed to hear it on July 24. Seven blasts had ripped through Mumbai local trains at various locations on the western line on July 11, 2006, killing more than 180 persons and injuring several others. Nineteen years later, the Bombay High Court on Monday acquitted all 12 accused, saying the prosecution utterly failed to prove the case and it was "hard to believe theycommittedthe crime". The state government, in its appeal against the Bombay HC verdict, has raised several serious objections to the high court's order of acquittal. 'HC overlooked the validity of approvals' The plea asserts that due procedural safeguards under Section 23(2) of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) were observed, including proper sanctioning by senior officers like prosecution witness (PW) no. 185 Anami Roy, news agency PTI reported. It said the high court overlooked the validity of these approvals despite no substantial contradiction in the prosecution's evidence. The plea has assailed the high court's rejection of the recovery of 500 grams of RDX from one of the accused on the ground that it lacked a lac seal. The plea has said that RDX, being highly inflammable, was not sealed for safety reasons and the recovery was duly sanctioned and documented. Also Read | Bombay HC acquits all 12 accused in 7/11 Mumbai train blasts case "That, the Hon'ble High Court has disbelieved the recovery of 500 gms of RDX from Accused No. 1 on a hyper-technical ground that the RDX which was seized was not sealed with a lac seal. It will be pertinent to note that the same was not sealed with a lac seal because RDX is an inflammable substance, according to the PTI report. "It is pertinent to note that the High Court records that the sanctioning authority for explosive substances has been examined by the prosecution. However, the Hon'ble High Court has not found any infirmities in the evidence of PW 26, who is the sanctioning authority under the Explosive Substances Act for seizure of RDX from Accused No. 1. Therefore, the High Court has erred in disbelieving the recovery of RDX from Accused No. 1," the plea has said. It has also disputed the high court's dismissal of the confession of an accused for lacking minute details, such as the date of arrival of the Pakistani co-conspirators in India, the description of the six Pakistanis and information like whether they had trained in terrorist camps. "The entire confessional statement has been disbelieved which is an unacceptable conclusion," the plea has said, adding that omissions regarding the identities and origins of the Pakistani co-conspirators do not invalidate the overall confession. The appeal also challenges the high court's disregard of the recovery of detonators and explosive granules from another accused, pointing out that these items cannot be easily procured or planted, and their evidentiary value should not have been dismissed over technicalities. The petition says the high court failed to address the validity of the convictions under various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and relevant provisions of the Explosive Substances Act. It says the high court ignored key findings and legal interpretations from previous landmark judgments. Falls under MCOCA provisions The plea addresses the defence's contention that the accused did not meet the definition of "continuing unlawful activity" under the MCOCA because earlier offences were punishable by less than three years. Also Read | SC to hear Maha plea against acquittal of 12 in 7/11 Mumbai blasts case The plea cites Supreme Court precedents, saying the conspiracy and scale of the attack clearly fall under MCOCA provisions. Of the 12, five were sentenced to death and seven to life imprisonment by a special court. One of the death-row convicts died in 2021. More than 180 people were killed when seven blasts ripped through Mumbai local trains at various locations on the western line on July 11, 2006. A Doha-bound Air India Express flight was forced to return to Calicut International Airport on Wednesday morning, approximately two hours after its departure, owing to a technical fault, the airline confirmed. The flight, IX 375, carrying 188 passengers including pilots and crew, took off from Calicut at around 9:07 am but landed back at 11:12 am after the crew noticed a technical issue mid-air. There was some technical issue in the aircrafts cabin AC. It was not an emergency landing, an airport official clarified. The passengers were safely deboarded upon return. Also Read | Air India flight's tail catches fire after landing at Delhi airport An Air India Express spokesperson described the return as a precautionary landing due to a technical error. One of our flights returned to Kozhikode after take-off due to a technical issue, the airline spokesperson said in an official statement. The airline acted promptly to manage the disruption. We arranged an alternative aircraft on priority, provided the guests with refreshments during the delay and the flight has since departed. We regret the inconvenience and reiterate that safety remains our top priority in every aspect of our operations, the statement added. Further, the spokesperson reassured passengers that the alternate flight was scheduled to depart by 1:30 pm. Till then all arrangements, like food and water, have been made for the passengers at the airport, the spokesperson confirmed. Air India Express emphasised that it is committed to maintaining the highest standards of passenger safety and operational reliability. Airport officials also indicated that engineers would either rectify the technical issue or an alternative aircraft would be used to complete the journey. This incident adds to the growing list of precautionary landings in recent months, underscoring the importance of stringent safety protocols within Indian aviation. Air India says no issues in locking mechanism of fuel control switches in Boeing fleet Air India said Tuesday that preliminary inspections found no issues in the locking mechanism of fuel control switches for select Boeing aircrafts. The announcement followed a preliminary investigation into last months Air India plane crash that the switches shifted and flipped within seconds, starving both engines of fuel. Air India operates a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners for long-distance operations, while subsidiary and low-cost unit Air India Express operates the Boeing 737 jets for short-haul flights. Also Read | Air India says no issues in locking mechanism of fuel control switches in Boeing fleet The airline inspected its entire fleet of both types of aircraft. In the inspections, no issues were found with the said locking mechanism, the airline's statement said. At 87, when most choose rest and retirement, Inderjit Singh Sidhu chooses public service, with a broom and a garbage bag in hand. A retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Punjab Police, Sidhu superannuated in 1996. Nearly three decades later, hes still serving, this time, by cleaning up his neighbourhood in Chandigarhs Sector 49. Every morning at 6 am, Sidhu sets out to collect litter from the streets, disturbed by the daily sight of garbage piling up in the area. Sidhu, who lives in the IAS-IPS Officers Cooperative Society, said he repeatedly complained to civic authorities, but no action followed. So I decided to do it myself, he told ANI. There is no shame in cleaning. Cleanliness is next to godliness. Sidhu, a 1964-batch IPS officer, now uses a bag or even an abandoned rickshaw to gather waste and dispose of it properly. What began as a solo effort has slowly turned into a neighbourhood movement: one that his family and fellow residents now support. While some initially called him crazy, his quiet determination has changed minds. Upset that Chandigarh doesnt always top the Swachh Survekshan rankings, it came second in 2024-25, Sidhu says the City Beautiful should aim for the number one spot. If you visit foreign countries, their streets are spotless. Why cant ours be the same? he said. Though he calls his contribution a small one, Sidhu says it brings him deep satisfaction. I like a clean place, so I clean. Ill keep doing it as long as I can. Industrialist Anand Mahindra, in his recent tweet, also praised Sidhu's powerful act of service. Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra wrote on X (formerly Twitter), He says he wasnt happy with the low rank Chandigarh got in the Swachh Survekshan listing, Mahindra posted. But instead of complaining, he chooses action...a quiet, persistent belief in a better world...Purpose doesnt retire. Service doesnt age. Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a four-day visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives today, July 23. The visit to the UK is at the invitation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, while the state visit to the Maldives is at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu, the Ministry of External Affairs said. Leaving for UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III, Modi said in his departure comments on X. The focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits to Britain and the Maldives will be shoring up trade and defence cooperation with the formalisation of the landmark India-UK free trade deal set to be the key outcome of his trip to London. PM Modi's foreign trip comes in the middle of Monsoon Session of Parliament that began on July 21. The prime minister will first travel to the UK on Wednesday on a two-day trip and then visit the Maldives primarily to grace the island nation's Independence Day celebrations as "guest of honour". PM will leave from India at around 1 pm today to reach London at 12. 15 AM (IST) on July 24. Meetings with PM Starmer, King Charles III According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, besides holding wide-ranging talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Modi will also meet King Charles III during his July 23-24 visit to the UK. This is PM Modi's fourth visit to the UK since assuming office. Starmer is set to host Modi on Thursday, July 24, at Chequers, the official country residence of the British prime minister, 50 km northwest of London. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and his British counterpart Jonathan Reynolds are likely to sign the free trade agreement (FTA) in the presence of the two prime ministers, people familiar with the matter were quoted as saying in a PTI report. British firms to export whisky, cars, other products In May, India and the UK sealed the FTA that is expected to benefit 99 per cent of Indian exports from tariffs and will make it easier for British firms to export whisky, cars and other products to India, besides boosting the overall trade basket. The trade deal, firmed up after three years of negotiations, is expected to ensure comprehensive market access for Indian goods across all sectors and India will gain from tariff elimination on about 99 per cent of tariff lines (product categories) covering almost 100 per cent of the trade values, according to officials quoted by PTI Along with the FTAthe biggest the UK has done since leaving the European Unionthe two countries also sealed a double contribution convention. It provides for employers of Indian workers to be exempt from paying social security contributions in the UK. "This visit, though a short one, will give both leaders the opportunity to review the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship and discuss ways to strengthen it further, and also discuss issues that are of regional and global relevance," Misri said at a media briefing earlier this week. A day ahead of Modi's UK trip, PM-led Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the India-UK free trade agreement, paving the way for the much-awaited formal signing of the pact during Modis visit to London on 24 July, said two government officials, asking not to be identified. When asked whether the FTA would be formally signed during PM Modi's visit to the UK, Misri said work on it is continuing, and it is last-minute. "We are continuing to work on those and last-minute work on that is continuing," he said. The India-UK bilateral trade crossed USD 55 billion in 2023-24. The UK is the sixth largest investor in India, with a cumulative investment of USD 36 billion. India's investments in the UK are close to USD 20 billion, and some 1,000 Indian companies operating in Britain provide employment to almost 100,000 people. Extensive security arrangements The British side is understood to have made extensive security arrangements, including sensitising security agencies to Indian concerns, to avert any attempt by pro-Khalistan elements to disrupt PM Modi's visit or organise protests. The foreign secretary said defence, technology, research, innovation and education have emerged as key pillars of India-UK cooperation. "In the defence sector, we are seeing regular interactions and exercises amongst all three branches of the armed forces. We have placed military instructors at each other's military academies," he said. The foreign secretary also mentioned the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) between the two sides, which is focused on cooperation intelecom, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, advanced materials, and quantum computing. Maldivian Independence Day on July 26 During his July 25-26 trip to the Maldives, Modi will hold extensive talks with President Mohamed Muizzu and inaugurate several India-assisted development projects in the island nation. The prime minister will also be the guest of honour at the Maldivian Independence Day celebrations on July 26. "The prime minister's state visit also happens to be the first state visit of a head of government that President Muizzu is hosting in his presidency since he assumed the office in November 2023," Misri said. "The Maldives is a very close partner in our neighbourhood, a very important partner in India's Neighbourhood First policy, and as part of the MAHASAGAR vision of India, which is Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions," he added. Misri also mentioned the India-Maldives joint vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership' that was finalised last year. "This joint vision, in a sense, has become the guiding framework for our ties," he said. Reset of bilateral ties The prime minister's visit to the Maldives is seen as important as it marks a significant reset of bilateral ties that had come under severe strain after Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, became president in November 2023. Also Read | PM to visit UK on July 23 to formalise landmark free trade deal, then Maldives Misri attributed the turnaround in the relationship to India working hard on the ties with the island nation. This visit, though a short one, will give both leaders the opportunity to review the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship and discuss ways to strengthen it further. "It's a question of working hard at a relationship. There will always be events that will impact or try to intrude on the relationship. But I think this is testimony to the kind of attention that has been paid to the relationship and including attention at the highest levels that has been paid to the relationship," he said. PM's itinerary for July 23 1 PM IST: Departure for London 7.45 PM (Local Time) 12.15 AM (IST July 24) Arrival in London Sawan Shivratri 2025: Sawan Shivratri, one of the most significant festivals for Hindus, is celebrated in the holy month of Shravan as per the Hindu lunar calendar. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the festival falls on the 14th day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in Shravan. This year, it will be observed on Wednesday, July 23. Sawan Shivratri is observed during the month of Shravan, while Maha Shivratri marks the convergence of both Shiva and Shakti, as per Hindu's Drik Panchang. Though both are important festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, they are different. On Sawan Shivratri, devotees fast, pray and do rituals to receive Lord Shivas blessings. Happy Sawan Shivratri 2025: 30 + wishes, messages, WhatsApp status and quotes to share with your loved ones: May Lord Shiva shower you with strength, wisdom, and endless blessings. Wishing you a blissful Happy Sawan Shivratri! 2. On this sacred day of Sawan Shivratri, may your prayers be answered and your heart be filled with peace and devotion. Har Har Mahadev! 3. May the divine grace of Lord Shiva bless your life with happiness, prosperity, and good health. Happy Sawan Shivratri! 4. Lets celebrate the glory of Lord Shiva and seek his guidance on the path of truth and righteousness this Sawan Shivratri. Om Namah Shivaya! 5. On this holy occasion, Om Namah Shivaya! May this Shivratri bring peace to your heart. 6. Har Har Mahadev! May Lord Shiva bless you with health, wealth, and prosperity on this auspicious Sawan Shivratri. 7. Wishing you a Happy Sawan Shivratri filled with devotion, peace, and joy. 8. May Bholenath fulfill all your desires and shower his divine blessings on this holy day. 9. Lets chant Om Namah Shivaya and purify our hearts. Happy Sawan Shivratri! 10. On this sacred day, may Lord Shiva remove all obstacles from your life. Har Har Mahadev! 11. Sending you warm wishes for a spiritually fulfilling and peaceful Sawan Shivratri. 12. May the divine blessings of Lord Shiva guide you to success and happiness. 13. Wishing you and your family strength, love, and blessings this Sawan Shivratri. 14. Let the calmness of Shiva bring peace into your home and heart. 15. Celebrate the glory of Shiva and find strength in his blessings. Happy Sawan Shivratri! 16. May this Sawan Shivratri light the path of truth, devotion, and love in your life. 17. On this holy night, may Shiva bless your soul with calmness and inner strength. 18. Let Lord Shiva's trident destroy your sorrows, and his blessings uplift your spirit. 19. Meditate on Shiva and let go of all your worries. Om Namah Shivaya. 20. In the month of Sawan, may you be drenched in devotion and divine grace. 21. Sawan Shivratri ki hardik shubhkamnayein! 22. Har Har Mahadev! Stay blessed always. 23. Celebrate the divine presence of Bholenath in your life. 24. Shiv ki kripa bani rahe tum par sadaiv. 25. Sawan ka mahina, Shiv ka naam Har Har Mahadev! 26. May the sacred chants of Om Namah Shivaya echo in your soul and bring you eternal bliss this Sawan Shivratri. 27. On this divine occasion, may your heart be filled with devotion and your home with Lord Shivas blessings. Har Har Mahadev! 28. On this divine night, may Shiva's blessings guide your path and protect you always. Om Namah Shivaya! 29. Wishing you and your family a blessed and blissful Maha Shivratri. Har Har Mahadev! 30. Let the power of Lord Shiva destroy all your sorrows and bring happiness and love. Happy Shivratri! Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has reportedly tied his political future to the outcome of tariff negotiations, even as US President Donald Trump announced that a deal had been struck with Japan. According to the Yomiuri newspaper on Wednesday, Ishiba will decide whether to remain in office once the fate of the trade talks is clear. Meanwhile, Mainichi newspaper reported that Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is expected to announce his resignation by the end of August. Donald Trump Announces Massive Trade Deal with Japan President Donald Trump announced a long-awaited trade agreement with Japan on Tuesday night, a framework between allies and major trading partners that appeared elusive just weeks ago. In a post on Truth Social posted on Wednesday Asian hours, US President Donald Trump said he had just completed a "massive" deal with Japan that included $550 billion in investments into the United States. We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made, Trump said on Truth Social. Also Read | A populist party that began on YouTube helped disrupt Japans ruling coalition As part of the deal, US importers will pay 15% reciprocal tariffs on Japanese goods exported to the United States. Japan also will invest $550 billion dollars into the United States, the president said. Trump added that the US will receive 90% of the profits. He did not specify how those investments would work or how profits would be calculated. No official term sheet has been released. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%, Trump posted. What Did Japan's Embattled Ishiba Declare? Following Donald Trump's announcement of a trade deal with Japan, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed his readiness to meet or speak by phone with Trump after receiving a briefing on the details from Japan's top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, who is currently in Washington for trade discussions. Ishiba told reporters, "I can't say until I scrutinise the outcome of the agreement," when asked how the deal with Washington might influence his decision to resign. The Yomiuri newspaper reported that Ishiba intends to visit the United States by the end of July to hold talks with President Trump. Japans chief negotiator Akazawa is engaged in the eighth round of talks in the US. Also Read | Japan bonds drift higher as traders assess fiscal fallout from coalition defeat In explaining his decision to stay on, Ishiba has stressed the need to avoid creating a political vacuum as Japan faced challenges including difficult trade negotiations with the US that would have a huge impact on the export-reliant economy. "I will stay in office and do everything in my power to chart a path toward resolving these challenges," Ishiba said in a news conference on Monday, adding that he intended to speak directly with Trump as soon as possible and deliver tangible results. Ishiba is expected to meet ruling party heavyweights later on Wednesday for discussions on the election outcome. The recent upper house elections in Japan, held on Sunday, have significantly weakened Ishibas domestic standing. Although the prime minister has cited the trade talks as a reason for wanting to remain in office, the conclusion of an agreement with the US seems likely to pave the way for his resignation following the historic electoral defeat. Shigeru Ishiba Faces Mounting Opposition Following the election loss, support for Shigeru Ishibas administration has plunged with a major poll showing his approval rate slightly above 20%, a level thats historically been considered dangerously low for an administration to continue. Ishiba is facing growing opposition from within his Liberal Democratic Party for his vow to stay in power despite the ruling coalition's bruising defeat in Sunday's upper house election. According to Yomiuri, Ishiba told his close associates on Tuesday evening that he would explain how he would take responsibility for the election loss once a solution was reached on trade negotiations. US on Trade Talks With Japan Before Donald Trump's declaration of 15% tarrif deal with Japan, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested the two sides may be getting closer to an agreement. The talks are going very well, Bessent said on Fox Business on Tuesday, adding that a historic election loss for Ishiba has given them a bit of impetus to get things done over the next couple of months. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Wednesday dismissed social media rumours suggesting that Jagdeep Dhankhar's official residence has been sealed and that he has been asked to vacate it immediately. The government agency categorically stated that these claims are false. "It is being widely claimed on social media that the Vice Presidents official residence has been sealed and the former VP has been asked to vacate his residence immediately. These claims are fake. Dont fall for misinformation. Always verify news from official sources," the PIB said in an official statement. The clarification comes as Dhankhar stepped down from the post of Vice President - the countrys second-highest constitutional office --on Monday. Just two days after Dhankhar's unprecedented resignation, reports surfaced that his family had begun packing their belongings. The 74-year-old leader had moved into the newly built Vice President's Enclave on Church Road in April last year. The residence, part of the Central Vista redevelopment project, had served as his official home and workplace for the past 15 months. Now, with his term ending early due to health concerns, the former Vice President is set to move into a new government bungalow - most likely a Type VIII accommodation in Lutyens Delhi - typically allocated to senior Union ministers and national party leaders. He (Jagdeep Dhankhar) will be offered a Type VIII bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi or another area, an Urban Development Ministry official said on Tuesday. Dhankhar resigned from his post citing health concerns. However, the Congress on Tuesday claimed that the reasons behind his resignation as Vice President go "far deeper" than the stated health issues. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, July 23, clarified the Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices to small and micro traders, saying the state government would not pursue tax notices issued to traders for arrears on exempted goods and services over the past three years. Siddaramaiah said the old tax arrears, linked to the UPI payments, will not be pursued, provided all such traders register under the GST and begin paying GST moving forward, PTI mentioned. Asserting that there was a confusion, Siddaramaiah said the Central government has decided to impose a one per cent tax on these individuals. Following this, traders agreed to call off their planned strike on July 25 in the city. The protest had been triggered by tax notices linked to Unified Payment Interface (UPI) transactions, with traders in parts of Bengaluru and across Karnataka calling for a boycott of UPI payments. Also Read | Wait, What! Vegetable trader gets 29 lakh GST notice in Haveri, Karnataka I called a meeting with small traders and others to discuss the issue of notices being issued to small traders, as notices were being issued to those with a turnover of more than 40 lakh. Around 9,000 notices were issued, Siddaramaiah said. TRADERS MUST REGISTER Siddaramaiah also emphasised that the traders must register with the Commercial Tax Department. The Central government has decided to impose a one per cent tax on these individuals... There was confusion among small traders about thisWe will not collect taxes from traders dealing in exempted goods, even if notices have been issued. I have also instructed officials not to pursue cases related to notices for clearing arrears from the past two to three years," he said. "Traders must register. Registration is mandatory because everyone needs to be brought within the tax net," he said. The chief minister also clarified that there was no need for registration for exempted goods. Bryan Kohberger, the former criminology PhD student who pleaded guilty to the brutal 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students, is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday (July 23) in Boise, Idaho. The hearing, beginning at 9 a.m. Mountain Time, is expected to last all day and could stretch into Thursday to allow time for victim impact statements. Kohberger, 30, admitted earlier this month to killing Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. In return for his guilty plea and waiver of appeal rights, prosecutors dropped the pursuit of the death penalty and instead recommended four consecutive life sentences without parole. Questions still remain While the sentence is largely a foregone conclusion, the hearing offers the victims families and surviving roommates a platform to express their pain. However, many families remain anguished by the lack of answers. Kohberger has never explained his motive, and investigators have not publicly speculated on why he targeted the King Road rental house in Moscow, Idaho, or why two surviving roommates were spared. A silent defendant? Under Idaho law, Kohberger will have a final opportunity to address the court before sentencing a moment often used by defendants to express remorse. However, it remains unclear whether he intends to speak. Even President Donald Trump weighed in this week, writing on Truth Social: I hope the judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. Evidence: DNA, cell data, and surveillance Prosecutors detailed a methodical investigation that led to Kohbergers arrest in Pennsylvania weeks after the killings. DNA from a knife sheath found at the crime scene matched genetic material retrieved from Kohbergers familys trash. His Amazon account revealed a purchase of a military-style knife eight months before the crime. Investigators also cited cellphone records and surveillance footage showing a white Hyundai Elantra matching Kohbergers car repeatedly passing by the victims home on the night of the attack. Cellphone data also placed him in the neighborhood multiple times before November 13, 2022. No evidence of sexual assault Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson ruled out certain motives during the July 2 plea hearing. According to him, there is no indication of a sexual component or sexual assault in these crimes. Despite this, many details remain shrouded in mystery due to sealed court documents and a sweeping gag order imposed to preserve Kohbergers right to a fair trial. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to use import restrictions to pressure foreign suppliers into reducing drug prices. Speaking at the White House during an event with Republican lawmakers, Trump further warned pharmaceutical companies that they would face a lot of problems if they did not agree to lower drug prices in the US. Trump pledged to reduce what consumers pay for prescription drugs. Drug companies will have a lot of problems if they dont agree to bring prices down, he said, hinting at plans to use trade policy as leverage. We are going to get drug prices down We will use import restrictions to force foreign suppliers to cut drug prices. The US President's statement comes more than a month after he signed a broad executive order in June directing drugmakers to lower the prices of their prescription drugs to align with what other countries pay. The order said the Trump administration will give drugmakers price targets within a month and, if they fail to make significant progress, may pursue regulatory actions or measures like importing medicines though analysts and legal experts say such steps would be difficult to implement. Does Donald Trump's drug order affect India? India plays a key role in supplying pharmaceutical products to the US, including generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). According to a report by The Times of India, New Delhi supplies around 35 per cent of all generic drugs prescribed in the US. Therefore, Trump's order to force foreign drugmakers to cut drug prices using import restrictions could significantly affect them, given that India and the US have not signed a trade deal yet. However, in June, Crisil Ratings had said Donald Trump's executive order on reducing prescription drug prices will have a limited impact on Indian pharma companies. Citing the reason behind its observation, the credit rating firm in its report said that despite India exporting over half of its pharmaceutical output, the bulk comprises low-priced generic drugs, which already operate on razor-thin margins, leaving little room for further price cuts to materially affect revenues. API exports (15 per cent of India's pharma exports) are expected to be broadly unaffected, as it is not a major cost for high-margin originator drugs, abating concerns of pricing pressure, the report said. In an exciting news for Pizza lovers, Pizza Hut stated that it will offer one-topping personal pan pizzas at for just $2 on Tuesdays. The offer is valid for carryout orders only and does not require any additional purchase. Customers can get up to four $2 pizzas per person, available both in-store and via the Pizza Hut app, the company told USA Today. Although the offer is available nationwide, customers are encouraged to verify whether their local Pizza Hut is taking part in it. The promotion originally launched on July 8. The Personal Pan Pizza holds a special place in the hearts of our guests, and we are celebrating the love and passion for this iconic fan-favorite with $2-Buck Tuesday, USA Today quoted Melissa Friebe, the chief marketing officer of Pizza Hut US as saying. She added, The response has been nothing short of incredible and we are even selling out of Personal Pan Pizzas at thousands of restaurants across the country. Our goal is to give guests more of what they love and this offering has proven to do just that." The company has not revealed the duration of this offer or till when it will last. Pizza Hut is selling its Hut Lovers Pizzas for $12.99 each. You can choose from Spicy Hawaiian Lovers, Meat Lovers, Pepperoni Lovers, or Veggie Lovers. Each deal includes one large pizza. This offer is available for a limited time. You can order in-store, for carryout, or on the Pizza Hut app. Bryan Kohberger, who pleaded guilty earlier this month to the brutal 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students, was formally sentenced on Wednesday (July 23) to four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. The sentencing hearing in Idahos Fourth District Court brought raw emotion, powerful victim impact statements, and a final but unsatisfying legal conclusion for families still grappling with unanswered questions. Judge: Unfathomable and senseless act of evil Judge Steven Hippler delivered the sentence in accordance with the plea agreement: four life sentences to run consecutively for the murders, plus 10 years for burglary and $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. Fighting back emotion, Hippler described the attack as senseless slaughter. The world and this court unmasked this unfathomable and senseless act of evil that has caused immeasurable pain and loss, Hippler said. Kohberger, dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit, remained stone-faced and spoke only once when asked if he wanted to address the court. I respectfully decline, he said. Prosecutor: Sentences honor victims individuality Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson grew emotional as he placed four framed photos of the victims Ethan Chapin, 20; Xana Kernodle, 20; Madison Mogen, 21; and Kaylee Goncalves, 21 one by one in front of the judge. We can never undo the horror of what occurred, Thompson said. These sentences must run consecutively to recognize the unique individuality of each of these beautiful lives. Thompson later explained the plea deal was offered to avoid lengthy appeals and delays. Victims' family members confront Kohberger Dozens of family members and friends addressed Kohberger directly, expressing anger, devastation, andin rare momentsforgiveness. Steve Goncalves (Kaylees father): Today we are here to finish what you started, he told Kohberger, who nodded slightly in response. You tried to break our community, but you failed. Kristi Goncalves (Kaylees mother): You will always be remembered as a loser, an absolute failure Hell will be waiting. Alivea Goncalves (Kaylees sister): You didnt win. You just exposed yourself as the coward you are Masters degree? Youre a joke a complete joke. Forgiveness, faith, and pain from Kernodle family Several members of Xana Kernodles family spoke through tears some offering forgiveness, others condemning Kohberger. Cara Northington (Xanas mother): Jesus allowed me to forgive you, even if you never showed remorse. You dont deserve our good memories. Randy Davis (Xanas stepfather): He has tainted his own family name. I hope you feel my energy, he said, pounding his chest. Go to hell. Kim Kernodle (Xanas aunt): I have forgiven you but I do have questions. Any time you want to talk, no judgment. Jeff Kernodle (Xanas father): When she was gone, I realized how important she was. She influenced me more than I ever thought. Mogen family: Evil does not deserve our time Maddie Mogens family described her as a joyful light who brightened every gathering. Scott Laramie (Maddies stepfather): Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Karen Laramie (Maddies mother): His acts are too heinous Society needs to be protected against this evil. Ben Mogen (Maddies father): She was the only great thing I ever did I just love you, Maddie, and I wish you were still here. Survivors relive trauma Both surviving roommates provided powerful testimony about the ongoing psychological toll of the attack. Dylan Mortenson (in-person): I was too terrified to close my eyes I made escape plans everywhere I went. He may have shattered parts of me, but Im still putting myself back together. Bethany Funke (via statement): The worst day of my life, and I know it always will be For a year I slept in my parents room. Why me? Why did I get to live and not them? Kohbergers family watches in silence Kohbergers mother and sister sat quietly near the defense table. His mother wept at times, particularly when Maddie Mogens grandmother extended sympathy toward them. His father, who had attended Kohbergers plea hearing earlier this month, was absent. Final judgment, lingering mystery Despite the sentence, many questions remain. Kohberger has never offered an explanation for his actions, and investigators have not publicly disclosed a motive. As the courtroom emptied, families clung to memories of the four young lives stolen. Also Read | Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for Idaho quadruple murders A federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from detaining or deporting Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 22-year-old immigrant who was previously deported to El Salvador in violation of a court order. The ruling comes amid growing legal and political tensions over Abrego Garcias case, which has become a flashpoint in debates over US immigration enforcement. Court orders federal protection and supervision US District Judge Paula Xinis issued the order on Wednesday, barring Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from taking Abrego Garcia into custody if he is released from jail in Tennessee, where he is awaiting trial on human smuggling charges. She also mandated that the US government give three business days notice before initiating any new deportation proceedings against him. Judge Xinis further ordered that Abrego Garcias previous federal supervision status be reinstated a condition that had allowed him to live and work legally in Maryland for several years while reporting regularly to immigration officials. That status was abruptly revoked when he was deported to El Salvador in March, despite a 2019 immigration judges ruling that protected him from being returned to that country due to potential gang-related threats. Defendants have done little to assure the Court that absent intervention, Abrego Garcias due process rights will be protected, Xinis wrote in her ruling. Human smuggling charges and legal battle The human smuggling case stems from a 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee, where Abrego Garcia was found driving a vehicle with nine passengers. Authorities suspected smuggling but allowed him to continue driving. He was later charged, and his defense attorneys are now seeking his release from jail pending trial but only on the condition that he wont be immediately detained or deported by ICE. On Wednesday, US District Judge Waverly Crenshaw ruled that Abrego Garcia is eligible for release under specific conditions that would address concerns about flight risk and public safety. However, his legal team has asked the court to delay that release until further protections are in place. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes, who had previously supported his release, signed an order postponing it for 30 more days. Legal and political fallout Abrego Garcia became a symbol of what critics say are overreaches of the Trump administrations immigration policies after he was wrongfully deported to El Salvador in March. His American wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, is now suing the Trump administration in Maryland court, seeking to block another deportation and to hold federal officials accountable for violating a 2019 court ruling that protected him from removal to El Salvador. US authorities argue that Abrego Garcia, who entered the US illegally in 2011, remains eligible for deportation based on a separate 2019 ruling but they insist they wont send him back to El Salvador. Instead, theyve suggested deporting him to a third country such as Mexico or South Sudan, citing alleged ties to the MS-13 gang a claim his legal team strongly disputes. The court has not yet ruled on the legality of his original deportation, but the Maryland judges order represents a significant rebuke of the administrations handling of the case and signals deeper scrutiny into the broader enforcement practices under Trump-era policies. Ahorities have confirmed, as per multiple media reports, that the body of Eliotte Heinz, a 22-year-old graduate student at Viterbo University, Wisconsin, was discovered in the Mississippi River on Wednesday (July 23), ending a desperate four-day search that gripped the La Crosse community and beyond. Heinz was last seen in the early hours of Sunday (July 20), after leaving Broncos Bar in downtown La Crosse around 2.30 am. Surveillance footage later showed her walking along the Mississippi River waterfront around 3.30 am., located just three-quarters of a mile away. She never made it home. Her body was recovered just before 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday near Brownsville, Minnesotamore than 12 miles downstream from her last known locationaccording to the La Crosse Police Department. Authorities are awaiting autopsy results to determine the official cause of death, and the investigation remains ongoing. Community rallies in search effort In the days following her disappearance, Heinzs family, friends, and local volunteers mounted an intensive search campaign. Flyers were posted, home security footage was requested, and multiple search parties combed the riverbanks and surrounding neighborhoods. Heinzs cellphone was recovered by friends during the search, her mother confirmed. Viterbo University, where Heinz was pursuing a degree in mental health counseling, shared messages from the family on social media, urging the public to come forward with any potential leads. Her family had appealed for residents to check home surveillance video from early Sunday morning between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., stressing that even the smallest detail could make a difference. A tragic ending This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search, La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said in a statement. Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends, and all those who knew her. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin, and nationally to locate Eliotte. Earlier in the week, Heinzs parents had grown alarmed when they couldnt reach their daughter Sunday morning and immediately contacted authorities. As the search intensified, the community mobilised to hand out posters and support the ongoing efforts. In a heartfelt statement, the Heinz family thanked the public for their overwhelming support: The outpouring of support in the search for Eliotte has been overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and encouragement from the community and beyond. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard ignited a political firestorm on Wednesday (July 23), alleging that former President Barack Obama and his national security team engineered a contrived narrative that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election to aid Donald Trump. There is irrefutable evidence that details how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false, Gabbard said during a tense White House press briefing. They knew it would promote this contrived narrative selling it to the American people as though it were true. It wasnt. Politicisation of intelligence alleged Gabbards claims follow the release of newly declassified intelligence documents that, according to her, expose efforts by the Obama administration to politicise intelligence findings. She said the materials show there was no direct information proving that Russian President Vladimir Putin actively supported Trump in 2016. All [the documents] come back to and confirm the same report: There was a gross politicization and manipulation of intelligence by the Obama administration intended to delegitimize President Trump even before he was inaugurated, Gabbard stated. Ultimately, they sought to usurp the will of the American people. Referral to DOJ and FBI Gabbard confirmed that the declassified material has been referred to federal law enforcement agencies for further investigation. We have referred and will continue to refer all of these documents to the Department of Justice and the FBI, she said. The evidence that we have found, and that we have released, directly point to President Obama leading the manufacturing of this intelligence assessment. There are multiple pieces of evidence and intelligence that confirm that fact. Trump joins the accusation A day earlier, President Donald Trump directly accused Obama of being the ringleader behind the 2016 Russia probe, escalating his long-standing claims that the investigation was politically motivated. Gabbard alleges treasonous conspiracy by Obama-era officials to undermine Trump in 2016 Gabbard on Friday in her explosive claim said that former President Barack Obama and senior members of his administration orchestrated a treasonous conspiracy to delegitimize Donald Trump ahead of the 2016 presidential election. No matter how powerful, every person involved in this conspiracy must be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Gabbard said in a statement. We must ensure nothing like this ever happens again. ODNI memo names former intelligence chiefs The released memo from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) identifies several high-profile intelligence figures allegedly involved in reviewing and crafting the intelligence communitys assessment of Russian meddling in the election. The names include former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, former CIA Director John Brennan, and former FBI Director James Comey. Gabbard claims these officials collaborated to create a politically motivated assessment intended to delegitimise Trumps presidency even before he was sworn in. Barack Obama hits back Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush dismissed the allegations as absurd. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Rodenbush said in a statement. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced that the United States and Japan have reached a trade agreement, which includes a 15 per cent tariff to be imposed on goods imported from Japan into the US. The deal would include $550 billion of Japanese investments in the United States, Trump said in a post on Truth Social, and added that Japan would increase market access to American producers of cars, trucks, rice and certain agricultural products, among other items. The US President, however, made no mention of easing tariffs on Japanese automobiles, which account for more than a quarter of all the country's exports to the United States and are subject to a 25% tariff. "We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90% of the Profits. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things," Trump said. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%. This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Thank you for your attention to this matter! Trump's announcement follows a meeting with Japan's top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, at the White House on Tuesday, according to a person familiar with the matter. Japanese auto stocks rise The US-Japan trade deal announcement by Trump pushed stocks in Japan higher, led by big gains in automakers as Honda, Toyota and Nissan all of whom rose 6% or more while US equity futures also gained ground. A measure of carmakers on the Topix index gained as much as 5.7%, the biggest advance among 33 industry groups, reported Bloomberg. US Attorney General Pam Bondi told President Donald Trump in May that his name appeared in Justice Department files related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday (July 23), citing senior administration officials. It has triggered fresh scrutiny around Trumps past ties to Epstein. The White House quickly dismissed the claims as fake news. Nothing in the files warranted further investigation or prosecution, said AG Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in a joint statement, avoiding direct reference to the Journals allegations. As part of our routine briefing, we made the President aware of the findings, the DOJ said, after filing a motion to unseal grand jury transcripts. Justice Department memo dismisses further Epstein probe Earlier this month, the DOJ released a memo concluding there was no basis to continue probing the Epstein case, effectively halting investigations. That reversal from earlier promises of transparency has angered many of Trumps supporters, who demanded full disclosure of Epsteins high-profile connections. However, US District Judge Robin Rosenberg denied the Justice Departments request to release sealed transcripts related to federal investigations from 2005 and 2007, ruling that the material did not qualify for release under federal rules. Political fallout intensifies The controversy has deepened whats become a political liability for Trump. After years of speculation and conspiracy theories about Epsteins alleged ties to powerful figures, Trump now finds himself under growing pressure from his own base. Last week, The Wall Street Journal published a 2003 birthday note allegedly sent by Trump to Epstein that read: Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret. Trump responded by suing the Journal and its parent company, owned by Rupert Murdoch, claiming the letter is a fake. Epstein files divide Republicans Amid the escalating tension, House Speaker Mike Johnson abruptly adjourned Congress a day early this week, avoiding a vote on a bipartisan resolution calling for full release of Epstein-related documents. The move temporarily blocked an effort led by both Democrats and Republicans to force the DOJs hand. DOJ eyes other Epstein records While the Florida court denied the DOJs request, federal prosecutors still have pending motions in New York to unseal transcripts tied to Epsteins later indictments and those of his associate, Ghislaine Maxwell. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking and other charges. Epsteins death, lingering questions Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. Though the official cause of death was confirmed by the medical examiner, doubts have persistedespecially among Trump supportersfueling speculation of a cover-up. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that the US and Japan will form a joint venture in order to develop a liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Alaska. However, a Japanese official denied being aware of such plans. Trump's announcement came moments after he announced a trade deal with Japan, reducing tariffs to 15 per cent on goods including auto parts. Japan became the first country to strike a trade deal with the US that would also reduce auto tariffs. Trump had earlier threatened to impose a 25 per cent tariff on Japanese goods starting August 1. What is the US-Japan LNG deal? It was not immediately clear whether Trump was referring specifically to the proposed $44 billion Alaska LNG project. That project would consist of an 800-mile (1,300-km) pipeline carrying gas to a planned liquefaction plant for export. Trump's announcement of the venture came in comments to lawmakers at the White House where he discussed his trade deal with Japan. "We concluded the one deal ... and now we're going to conclude another one because they're forming a joint venture with us at, in Alaska, as you know, for the LNG," Trump told the lawmakers. They're all set to make that deal now. The METI official, who oversees resource development, said the agency is working to confirm Trump's comments. Several companies from Japan have expressed an interest in buying LNG from the project, along with Thailand's PTT and India's GAIL. JERA and Tokyo Gas, Japan's two biggest LNG buyers, have expressed their interest in the Alaska LNG project but said they would need to assess specific conditions, including costs, before moving forward. But when asked about the joint venture mentioned by Trump, a JERA spokesperson said they could not confirm it. (Bloomberg) -- Irans government confirmed that last months US military strikes forced it to stop uranium enrichment and said its open to indirect talks with Washington about the future of the Islamic Republics nuclear program. Enrichment has now stopped because damages are serious and severe, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview with Fox News that aired Monday. Obviously we cannot give up our enrichment because its an achievement of our own scientists, but its also now a question of national pride. Irans right to enrich uranium was a major stumbling block in the last round of talks with the Trump administration that were scuttled by Israel when it began bombing the Islamic Republic on June 13. The US in May hardened its position from accepting low levels of uranium enrichment by Iran to insisting that Tehran dismantle its enrichment capability entirely. Iran says it wants to enrich uranium to the low levels needed for civilian purposes, such as fueling nuclear-power plants. Tehran advanced its nuclear program significantly after Trump quit a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers in his first term, triggering concerns in the West that the Persian Gulf nation may try to develop a nuclear weapon. Araghchis comments came as questions linger over the level of damage caused by a massive bombing raid ordered by US President Donald Trump on three key nuclear sites in Iran on June 22. If the goal is to make sure that Iran will never have nuclear weapons, that is achievable, he said when asked about his countrys ability to reach any agreement with the US. But if the goal is to deprive Iran from its rights, including the right of enrichment, I think well have difficulty. The Islamic Republic is prepared to provide any confidence-building measure needed to prove that its atomic program will remain peaceful forever, said Araghchi, who also leads Irans negotiations on its nuclear program. Iran continues to cooperate with the United Nations nuclear watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency and the countrys atomic energy organization is currently evaluating the full extent of the damage caused by last months air strikes, Araghchi said. The US attack came toward the end of Israels 12-day military assault on Iran that targeted nuclear sites, military generals, critical infrastructure, commercial and residential districts in Tehran, hospitals and a prison housing hundreds of political detainees. More than 1,000 Iranians, mostly civilians, were killed by Israels strikes. At least 29 Israeli civilians died in Irans subsequent missile attacks. While the two countries agreed to a ceasefire on June 24, the risk of another confrontation remains high as Israel continues to threaten Iran with further attacks. Tehran insists it will continue its nuclear program as well as support for armed groups that challenge Israeli and US interests in the Middle East. Not Over Israels military campaign against Iran is not over, the Israel Defense Forces said on Tuesday. In addition to the proposed indirect talks with the US that Araghchi referred to, Iran agreed to hold discussions with France, the UK and Germany on Friday about its nuclear program. Iranian officials are also continuing parallel discussions with their Russian and Chinese counterparts. Any settlement for Irans nuclear program should include enrichment because thats our right and well never give it up, Araghchi told Fox. Iran also will maintain its missile program, which is still in very good shape despite attacks by Israel on Iranian air defenses. Thats our most reliable means of defense, Araghchi said. I can tell you our missiles are of a deterrent nature, they are for defense, not offense, and I can assure you Irans missiles will never have a nuclear warhead. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Ghislaine Maxwell, the former British socialite and convicted sex offender, may be ready to speak out about her long-standing association with Jeffrey Epstein. According to a report in the New York Post, Maxwell is expected to meet US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to explore the possibility of a deal in exchange for cooperation with federal authorities. Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year sentence at a low-security prison in Florida, was convicted in 2021 for recruiting and grooming young girls for Epstein, who died by suicide in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking. Also Read | Jeffrey Epstein whistleblower says she warned FBI about Donald Trump decades ago Shes going to make a deal, said noted lawyer Alan Dershowitz, who once represented Epstein. Thats how it works. They make deals with mafia members, and theyll likely do the same here. Who Is Ghislaine Maxwell? Ghislaine Maxwell is the daughter of late British media tycoon and former Member of Parliament Robert Maxwell, who once owned the Daily Mirror and publishing giant Macmillan. Known for her elite connections, Ghislaine was a regular in high society circles and even counted Britains Prince Andrew among her close friends, often being spotted at royal residences, including Windsor Castle, the news agency AP reported. However, her life took a dramatic turn after her fathers mysterious death in 1991, when he fell off his yacht. Investigations later revealed that Robert Maxwell had embezzled millions from his companies pension funds, sending shockwaves through the UK. It was soon after his death that Ghislaine Maxwell was seen seated beside American financier Jeffrey Epstein at a memorial service, marking the beginning of a controversial partnership. Maxwell reportedly dated Epstein and later became a key figure in his inner circle, managing his multiple residences and staff. She has since been convicted for her role in Epsteins sex trafficking operation and is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence in the US. Also Read | DOJ seeks testimony from Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell Why her testimony matters Legal experts believe Maxwell could hold critical information about the full scope of Epsteins sex trafficking operation, including names of both victims and alleged perpetrators. Some of Epsteins victims were reportedly forced to recruit others, further complicating the case. Maxwell, often referred to as the Rosetta Stone of the Epstein scandal, is believed to have deep insight into both Epsteins circle and his finances. Though she has largely remained silent, Maxwell has indicated through her brother Ian Maxwell that she is willing to testify before a Congressional committee. If that happens, it would mark the first time her full version of events is heard by federal authorities. Until now, she has maintained her innocence and refused plea negotiations. Back in spotlight amid renewed scrutiny The case has resurfaced after the US Justice Department announced plans to release information from recent FBI raids on Epsteins properties, only to later reverse the decision. This renewed focus has made Maxwells account more significant than ever. The Justice Department has maintained there is no existing client list linked to Epsteins alleged network. Maxwells brother, Ian, has echoed that claim, stating that what some refer to as a list was merely a high-profile address book, not evidence of trafficking. He also insists that his sister should never have been prosecuted, citing Epsteins 2007 plea deal in Florida, which promised immunity to his co-conspirators. However, New York prosecutors successfully argued that the deal was not applicable outside Florida. Unsafe jail conditions, ongoing appeals Maxwell has been incarcerated since 2022 at the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee. Her family has repeatedly raised concerns over her safety, citing poor living conditions, solitary confinement, and a lack of adequate staffing at the prison. With her legal appeal options dwindling, barring a final petition to the US Supreme Court, Maxwell may now be more inclined to cooperate in hopes of a sentence reduction. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, who has previously dismissed the Epstein case as a hoax, responded to the news of possible cooperation by saying, It sounds appropriate to do, yeah, according to Politico. Erik Menendez, one of the infamous Menendez brothers convicted of killing their parents in 1989, has been hospitalised with a serious medical condition, prompting his attorney to seek his temporary release from prison ahead of a crucial parole hearing next month. Menendez, 57, has been serving a life sentence without parole alongside his brother Lyle for the murder of Jose and Mary Louise Kitty Menendez in their Beverly Hills mansion. The case gained national attention in the 1990s due to its shocking nature and televised trial, with the brothers claiming they acted in self-defense after enduring years of sexual abuse by their father. Parole hearing in August In a recent development, a judge resentenced Erik and Lyle to 50 years to life, rendering them immediately eligible for parole. Their hearings are scheduled for August 21 and 22 before the California state parole board. Any decision to release them will require final approval from Governor Gavin Newsom. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation confirmed that Erik was transferred to an outside medical facility on Friday and remains there in "fair condition." While the nature of his illness has not been disclosed, attorney Mark Geragos described it as a serious medical condition and is urging authorities to grant Erik a furlough, similar to those granted to certain inmates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Legal challenges continue The hospitalisation and upcoming parole hearings come amid renewed legal scrutiny of the Menendez case. Just last week, a Los Angeles judge ordered local prosecutors to justify why the brothers convictions should not be reexamined in light of newly surfaced evidence that may support their long-standing claims of sexual abuse by their father. The order was issued in response to a habeas corpus petition filed in May 2023, separate from their resentencing proceedings. Defense attorneys argue that the new evidence further substantiates the brothers' original defense that they acted out of fear and trauma, not greed. Prosecutors, however, have consistently maintained that the murders were financially motivated. By Andrew Goudsward and Luc Cohen WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Kilmar Abrego, the migrant whose wrongful deportation to El Salvador made him a symbol of President Donald Trump's aggressive immigration policies, won two key victories in U.S. courts on Wednesday but will remain behind bars on human smuggling charges for now. In dual rebukes to the Trump administration after Abrego was brought back to the U.S. to face the charges, one federal judge ruled that he must be released on bail, and another ruled that authorities must give his lawyers three days' notice before they try to deport him again to a different country. These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the governments lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmars due process rights," Abrego's lawyer Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg said in a statement. Still, Abrego will remain in criminal custody in Tennessee for at least 30 days. His lawyers, while pushing for his release on bail, had asked that any such order be delayed given the risk that immigration authorities could swiftly detain and deport him upon his exit from jail. Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin in a statement accused Abrego of being a member of the Salvadoran gang MS-13 and said he "will never walk Americas streets again." Abrego denies being part of the gang. Abrego, 29, a Salvadoran migrant who had been living in Maryland, was deported and imprisoned in El Salvador in March despite a 2019 judicial ruling that he could not be sent there because of a risk of gang persecution. That prompted Trump's critics to argue that his administration was infringing on legal rights as it moved aggressively to deport millions of migrants living illegally in the U.S. Abrego then challenged that deportation in a civil lawsuit before U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Greenbelt, Maryland. The U.S. Supreme Court in April upheld Xinis' order that the administration facilitate Abrego's return. In June, U.S. officials brought Abrego back to the U.S. after securing an indictment accusing him of transporting migrants in the U.S. illegally as part of a smuggling ring. Abrego has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has been held in criminal custody in Tennessee since his return. His lawyers have accused the Trump administration of bringing the charges to cover up violations of his rights. U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes in Nashville, Tennessee last month granted Abrego's request to be released ahead of his trial. But Abrego's lawyers later asked Holmes not to release Abrego right away, citing the risk he would be detained and deported to a country other than El Salvador. Federal prosecutors challenged Holmes' ruling. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw rejected that challenge, writing that prosecutors had not shown sufficient evidence that Abrego posed a public safety threat or was a flight risk to justify his continued detention ahead of trial. But he said the government was entitled to another hearing over whether to detain Abrego due to their allegation that he sometimes transported children. After Crenshaw's order on Wednesday, Holmes said she would delay her order for release by at least 30 days. In a simultaneous decision on Wednesday, Xinis ruled that if Abrego is released from criminal custody, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement could not detain him in Tennessee. She also ruled that his immigration case must be returned to Maryland, and that he must be notified at least three days before any deportation to a third country. On Xinis' ruling, McLaughlin said, "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest someone who is subject to immigration arrest under federal law is insane." Xinis' order did not bar immigration authorities in Maryland from taking him into custody. Type VIII government bungalow, 2 lakh pension, free air and rail travel, free healthcare and personal assistants are some of the perks Jagdeep Dhankhar will receive after resigning as the Vice President of India. Jagdeep Dhankhar shocked the nation when he tendered his resignation on the first day of Parliament's Monsoon Session. A day later on Tuesday, July 22, sources privy to the developments around the former Vice President said that the Dhankhars have also started packing their belongings to soon move out of the Vice President's Enclave in New Delhi. As a former vice president, he is entitled to a government bungalow a Type VIII bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi or another area. Not just a government bungalow, Jagdeep Dhankhar will also be entitled to a pension and other facilities even after his resignation, a Live Hindustan report said. According to the Vice President's Pension Act, a retired Vice-President shall be entitled to travel anywhere in India, by the highest class, by air, rail or steamer, accompanied by spouse or a companion or relative. Jagdeep Dhankhar would also be entitled to free healthcare, along with a private doctor. Dhankhar will be assigned two personal assistants (PAs), while his wife will receive the services of a private secretary. The government will also cover the electricity and water bills for the bungalow allotted to the former Vice President. Also Read | Vice President election: NDA vs Opposition, who has the edge? According to the 2018 Budget, the Vice President's salary was hiked to 48 lakh per annum and they are entitled to receive 50-60 per cent of their salary in the form of pension. Therefore, Jagdeep Dhankhar might receive more than 2 lakh as pension amount. Dhankhar resigned from his post on Monday, citing health concerns. However, the Congress on Tuesday claimed that the reasons behind his resignation as Vice President go "far deeper" than the stated health issues. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared on Wednesday (July 23) that the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a fundamental human right, in a landmark advisory opinion on climate change. The decision is being seen as a potential turning point in international environmental law. The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is therefore inherent in the enjoyment of other human rights, said ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa, delivering the courts conclusion. The case was led by Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation severely threatened by rising sea levels, and was backed by over 130 countries. Vanuatus Attorney General Arnold Kiel Loughman reminded the court during earlier hearings, The stakes could not be higher. The survival of my people and so many others is on the line. Advisory opinion not binding While the courts ruling is non-binding, legal experts say it opens the door to a cascade of lawsuits and policy shifts. The 500-page opinion responds to two major questions: What are states legally obligated to do under international law to mitigate climate change? And what consequences do they face for failing to act? The UN General Assembly had requested the advisory opinion in 2023 after sustained lobbying from island nations at the frontlines of the climate crisis. The courtroom in The Hague, known as the Great Hall of Justice, was packed during the announcement, with activists holding signs reading: Courts have spoken. The law is clear. States must ACT NOW. Legal basis for global accountability This opinion provides an authoritative interpretation of international law that governments can no longer ignore, said Joie Chowdhury, senior attorney at the Center for International Environmental Law. Its not just about future targets it also tackles historical responsibility. According to Chowdhury, the decision can now serve as the foundation for further legal actions including domestic lawsuits and bilateral or multilateral investment agreements. States may also return to the ICJ to hold other countries accountable for climate inaction or harm. Vanuatu Minister: Global agreements moving too slowly Vanuatus Minister for Climate Change, Ralph Regenvanu, welcomed the decision, calling it a legal tool for nations like his that have been sidelined in international climate negotiations. The agreements being made at an international level between states are not moving fast enough, he told the Associated Press. This opinion gives us a path forward. The decade leading up to 2023 saw global sea levels rise by an average of 4.3 centimeters, with even greater increases in some Pacific regions. Global temperatures have already risen by 1.3 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, largely due to fossil fuel emissions. Opposition from big emitters While the decision marks a victory for vulnerable nations, major emitters like the United States and Russia have opposed the idea of legally binding emission reductions through international courts. Both are key petroleum-producing nations and have resisted efforts to enshrine climate responsibilities as enforceable international law. Also Read | Italy and Algeria agree to tackle terrorism and migration at summit Officials from Russia and Ukraine ended a third round of formal negotiations in Istanbul with an agreement to swap more prisoners but little sign of progress on a deal to halt the war. Ukraine proposed a summit of the leaders of the two countries by the end of August that should also include US President Donald Trump and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Ukrainian delegation leader, Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, told reporters after the talks late Wednesday. Theres no point to a summit without first having negotiated a peace deal, Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who led Moscows delegation, told a news conference in response. It doesnt make sense to meet in order to discuss it all over again from scratch, he said. Medinsky said the two sides had agreed to a new exchange of about 1,200 prisoners, and Russia had also proposed returning the bodies of 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers. While the Russian and Ukrainian negotiating positions are quite distant from each other, they had agreed to continue contacts, Medinsky said. Russia proposed establishing three working groups on political issues, humanitarian questions and military matters, he said. Umerov said Ukraine continues to insist on a full and unconditional ceasefire to allow for peace talks. It was up to Russia to demonstrate a constructive and realistic approach, he said. Umerov and Medinsky met for direct talks ahead of the main group negotiations that lasted for less than 40 minutes. The ultimate aim is a ceasefire that will pave the way to peace, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said in televised comments at the start of the meeting. Turkey is ready, as ever, to support the process. The latest discussions took place after Trump issued a 50-day deadline for Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire, and threatened very severe secondary sanctions against countries that buy Russian oil and gas if he fails to comply. Trump also said the US would send additional military aid to Ukraine including Patriot air defense systems that will be paid for by Kyivs European allies. Russia has unleashed record drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities in recent weeks, prompting Trump to accuse Putin of a lack of sincerity in diplomacy to end the war. He talks nice and then he bombs everybody in the evening, Trump said. The previous rounds of Istanbul talks between Ukraine and Russia in June and May led to exchanges of prisoners, but no progress in negotiations to end the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. GLOBAL PREVIEW: Istanbul Talks Unlikely to Yield Ukraine Peace Russia has rejected calls from Ukraine and its US and European allies for a ceasefire to allow for peace talks. The Kremlin is maintaining hardline demands for Kyiv to accept a neutral status and to withdraw its forces from four regions of eastern and southern Ukraine that Moscow is claiming but doesnt fully occupy. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. An internal investigation commissioned by the World Economic Forum (WEF) has revealed a troubling pattern of workplace misconduct by its founder, Klaus Schwab, over the past decade. As first reported by The Wall Street Journal, the probeinitiated in April following a whistleblower complaintalleges bullying, inappropriate behavior toward female employees, and unauthorized personal spending. In one instance, Schwab reportedly sent a late-night email to a senior female executive in June 2020, asking: Do you feel that I am thinking of you? According to the news outlet, investigators cited the message as potentially inappropriate and indicative of a broader culture of favoritism and fear under Schwabs leadership. Lavish travel, gifts flagged Schwab and his wife, Hilde Schwab, are alleged to have submitted over $1.1 million in travel expenses, much of which investigators flagged as questionable. These included first-class flights for Hildewho held no formal role at the Forumand personal trips to Venice, Miami, Seychelles, and Morocco totaling around $63,000, with minimal evidence of business activity, WSJ reported. Investigators also noted 14 hotel massages billed to the World Economic Forum through corporate cards or junior staff, though Schwab said he reimbursed about half and had instructed aides to bill him personally. Throughout this journey, Hilde and I never used the Forum for personal enrichment, Schwab said in a statement via a spokesman. He maintained that any mistakes were unintentional and pledged to repay any misallocated funds after the probes final report. Culture of intimidation and discrimination Interviews with over 50 current and former staff painted a picture of an organization ruled by fear. Schwab allegedly sidelined pregnant women and older female employees, affecting their careers and mental well-being. One source described Schwabs leadership style as operating the Forum like his fiefdom, using intimidation to maintain control. Legacy under threat Schwab, 87, stepped down, ending his 55-year tenure as WEFs chief. The Swiss law firm Homburger, leading the investigation, is expected to finalize its findings by August-end and submit them to Forum trustees and potentially Swiss prosecutors, WSJ reported. Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday raised eyebrows over former US President Donald Trump's recurring claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. Speaking on Trumps repeated remarks, Gandhi asked, Why is he saying it so many times? The comment came after US President Donald Trump once again claimed credit for stopping a potential nuclear conflict between the two South Asian neighbours, India and Pakistan, allegedly using trade threats as leverage. Echoing Rahul Gandhis concerns, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh strongly criticised the Narendra Modi-led government for its silence on Trumps statements and its failure to provide clarity on key national security matters, including the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Ramesh noted that Trumps claim has now reached a milestone. The claims of a ceasefire made by Trump have reached their silver jubilee with the US President reiterating them 25 times in the last 73 days, he said. In a post on X, Jairam Ramesh accused the Prime Minister of avoiding critical debate: As the Modi government continues in its refusal to give firm dates for a debate on Pahalgam-Sindoor in Parliament and as the Modi government persists in its refusal to commit to a reply by the PM in the debate, President Trump reaches the silver jubilee, the quarter-century mark on his claims. He has trumpeted 25 times in the last 73 days, but the Prime Minister of India is totally quiet finding time only to travel abroad and to destabilise democratic institutions at home. Donald Trumps latest claim restated his supposed role in preventing a major war: We have stopped wars between India and Pakistan. They were probably going to end up in a nuclear war. They shot down five planes in the last attack. It was back and forth, back and forth. I called them and I said no more trade if you do this. They are both powerful nuclear nations. Who knows where that would have ended up, and I stopped it, he said. For three days last week, Osama Bshnak Radwan and his family cowered in their townhouse as rockets, artillery and bullets pulverized their Syrian enclave. Then, five armed men in military fatigues arrived at their gate. Come out, Druze! Come out, you dogs!" the men shouted, according to Radwan, whose family belongs to the Druze religious minority that lives along Syrias southern border. The gunmen eventually left the gate but they entered the house next door, where they killed more than a dozen members of his extended family, he said. The killings were part of a wave of sectarian violence between Sunni Muslim Bedouins and Druze that swept through Sweida, a majority Druze province, last week. The fighting prompted Israeli warplanes to strike Syrian government forces in what Israel said was an attempt to defend the Druze. The clashes have exposed the seams in the patchwork of tribes, religions and ethnicities in Syria, where a fragile new government, dominated by Sunni Muslims, took power eight months ago. The violence lays bare the challenges of Israels stated vision for Syria as a loose federation of autonomous states with a weak central government. Analysts say a lack of strong centralized rule will entrench sectarian divides. Even as Syrias fledgling leadership has gained international acceptance, sanctions relief and investment, it has struggled to protect its minorities and unify the nation. The divisions have sparked concerns that the nation could descend into further conflict, driven by deeply entrenched political, ethnic and religious schisms. On Tuesday, a fragile cease-firethe fourth declared in a weekappeared to be holding amid pressure from the Trump administration, Turkey and Arab nations, though residents said Sweida remained tense. The fighting marked at least the fourth time sectarian strife has escalated into serious violence since the fall of Bashar al-Assads regime in December. The Wall Street Journal reconstructed the events of last weeks cascading violence through interviews with witnesses, community leaders and residents from both the Druze and Bedouin populations, as well as analysis of dozens of social-media posts and videos. A shared history and spiraling conflict For several centuries, the Bedouin and Druze, whose religion stems from an early offshoot of Shiite Islam, have lived together in southern Syria, at times sharing each others traditions. They fought together against French colonialist rule in the 1920s. But the two communities have also clashed over land rights and other disputes. The current upheaval began on July 11 when an armed Bedouin gang kidnapped a Druze vegetable merchant, stealing his wares, car and roughly $700 in local currency. The man was beaten as his captors yelled religious insults. The merchants relatives then kidnapped Bedouin tribal members in Sweida, leading Bedouin tribesmen to kidnap more than a dozen Druze. The tit-for-tat attacks escalated and by the time the merchant was released and tribal mediations began two days later, the violence had spread across Sweida province and attracted fighters from across the country. Hundreds of armed Arab Bedouin tribesmen descended on Sweida on July 13. They had to pass through dozens of government checkpoints, mostly run by Sunni Muslim forces, from as far away as Hama, Homs in the north, and on the other side of the country to the east near the Iraqi border in Deir Ezzour. There, dozens of young men were filmed entering a white trailer truck guarded by armed fighters. These are the people of Deir Ezzour," one man with a regional accent said in the video, according to footage verified by Storyful, which is owned by News Corp, the parent company of The Wall Street Journal. We are coming for you Druze." Syrian government forces moved into Sweida to restore order but many Druze, who say the government collaborates with the Bedouins, saw their arrival as an invasion. Druze say they distrust Syria interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and his forceswho are former al Qaeda-linked jihadists who toppled Assadand describe their feelings of exclusion from the Sunni Muslim-dominated government. A spokesman for Sharaas office didnt respond to a request for comment. In a July 19 televised address, Sharaa described the Bedouin tribes as "a symbol of noble values and principles," and praised their nationwide mobilization to defend their community. In the same speech, he referred to Druze militias as outlaws." Israel, which has a large Druze population, said the Syrian governments intervention was an attempt to harm Druze communities. Cultivating ties with Syrias Druze is an essential part of Israels strategy to create a demilitarized buffer zone populated by Israel-friendly Druze along its border with southern Syria to prevent cross border attacks on Israeli citizens. The community, however, is divided over Israels entry into Syria and the Sharaa government. Some fear being viewed as collaborators if they support Israel, while others say Israels involvement keeps Syria weak. Some Druze say they want to give Syrias new leaders a chance to unify the nation. When Syrian government troops reached Sweida on July 14, their tanks came under attack from Israeli warplanes. Meanwhile, Druze militias battled both government forces and Bedouin fighters. Syrias Defense Ministry announced the death of at least six of its soldiers after an ambush by unlawful groups," a term they use to refer to Druze militias. On July 15, the next day, a government-announced cease-fire fell apart after influential Druze leader Hikmat al-Hijriwho has strong ties to the Druze in Israelrefused to give it his backing, accusing government forces of continued attacks against Druze civilians. We are being subjected to a campaign of complete extermination," he told his followers in a video. We must resist this barbaric assault with every means available." Dont let them be the ones to kill us The surge of sectarian bloodletting intensified, as artillery and rockets pounded Sweida, with hundreds of Druze and Bedouin civilians killed, according to the United Nations. Thousands of Druze residents of Sweida fled toward the Jordanian border, while others escaped to the countryside. At Radwans residence where he and his family hid, his 20-year-old daughter made a plea. Dad, for Gods sake, if they get in and want to kill us, kill me yourself," Radwan recalls her saying. Strangle us, hit us on the head. Just dont let them be the ones to kill us." When the gunmen arrived at their compound, they fired and shouted Allahu akbar," meaning God is great, Radwan recalls. All of us were frozen," he says. We couldnt cry or make a sound. God protected us. They shut the gate and walked away." After gunfire next door, one of his wounded family members sent a voice message to the family WhatsApp group. Only a few are still breathing," the family member said in the message heard by the Journal. The men killed at least 13 members of Radwans family that day. On Friday, Volker Turk, U.N. High Commissioner for human rights, said that his office had documented the attack. Armed individuals affiliated with the interim authorities deliberately opened fire at a family gathering," he wrote. A spokesperson for Sharaas office didnt respond to a request for comment. By the end of July 15, bodies were piling up outside the main hospital in Sweida, according to video footage verified by Storyful. The hospital itself was attacked by armed groups, killing and wounding medical staff, according to the U.N. The next day, Israel turned up the pressure, using its warplanes to strike the military headquarters in Damascus and areas near the presidential palace, taking the spiraling violence to a new phase. Syrias leadership and some of Sweidas top Druze leaders later reached a more comprehensive cease-fire deal calling for Sweida province to be integrated into the Syrian state and for Druze factions and religious leaders to maintain security. Hijri again rejected the offer. The violence raged on. The government later agreed to pull its forces from Sweida, following mediation with Israel conducted by the U.S., Turkey and Syrias Arab neighbors. After government forces withdrew, we began recovering the bodies," said Wajiha Hajjar, a prominent Druze lawyer in Sweida who returned to the province on Friday after having fled to the Jordanian border. There were summary executions where people were dragged from their homes and shot in the streets." she said. Villages in the western countryside were gone. Homes were burned down." Other residents described similar scenes. Sectarian violence resurges Once government forces pulled back, some Druze militias renewed attacks on Bedouin neighborhoods, including targeting children, according to Bedouin community leaders and residents. The Druze, the Hijri, have displaced us from our homes and burned down mosques," said Nahi Sweiti, 27 years old, a Bedouin farmer and sheep herder, using a term to describe Hijris followers. After the defense forces pulled out from Sweida, the armed gangs of Hijri started killing and executing people from the tribes, regardless of whether it was men, women, or children." More Bedouin fighters left Deir Ezzour for Sweida. Some said they were coming for Hijri. Sharaa said that Syrian troops had withdrawn from Sweida to de-escalate tensions but that the horrifying campaign of violence" that had followed constituted a clear violation of those understandings." He promised to hold accountable all those who committed crimes and violated the lawregardless of their affiliation." A top Hijri militia leader denied the accusations. There were reactions, but to kill and slaughter this did not happen," said Firoz Naeem in an interview. The government, he said, is colluding with the Bedouin to target Hijri to divide the Druze. We are open to dialogue with all communities, but someone who calls you a disbeliever, an infidel, how are we going to feel safe?" Naeem added. We have a legitimate right to defend ourselves." Over the weekend, after another cease-fire mediated by the U.S., Syrian forces returned to Sweida to try to restore order. Israel stopped its air campaign on the condition that the Druze would be protected. The truce remains fragile amid an emerging humanitarian crisis, including nearly 100,000 people displaced, says the U.N. Sectarian hate speech targeting both Druze and Bedouin remains rampant online. Syrias Interior Ministry this week said the government had begun evacuating hundreds of Bedouin families from Sweida in buses toward Daraa, a province where Sunni Muslims dominate. Write to Sudarsan Raghavan at sudarsan.raghavan@wsj.com (Bloomberg) -- Iran has not ruled out withdrawing from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons if the United Nations were to reimpose sanctions, a lead Iranian negotiator said ahead of nuclear talks this week. Thats still on the table, Deputy Foreign Minister for International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi told reporters on Wednesday, referring to the prospect of Iran pulling out of the treaty. If Iran were deemed in violation of the agreement, the UN Security Council could reinstate broad sanctions via process known as the snapback. Im quite confident that if the snapback is triggered, Iran will not show more restraint in this regard, Gharibabadi said. Gharibabadi added that Tehran has not made any decision to withdraw from the treaty, which seeks to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons by prohibiting members from acquiring them. Iran is set to hold talks with the UK, France and Germany the three European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal on Friday, after they threatened to reinstate international sanctions via the snapback process. Once triggered, the snapback mechanism which is due to expire in October allows for 30 days of negotiations before sanctions are restored. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot last week announced the possibility of reimposing sanctions by the end of August if Iran fails to reach a deal limiting its nuclear program. Meanwhile, Gharibabadi said Iran has agreed to allow a technical team from the International Atomic Energy Agency into the country in the coming weeks. While the IAEA team will not visit the nations nuclear sites, they will discuss a new modality in their relationship, he said. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Election Commission of India said on Wednesday, 23 July, that it has started the process of electing a new Vice President of India. The announcement comes after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned as Vice President on 21 July, opening the contest for his successor. The MHA vide its Gazette Notification S.O. 3354 (E) dated July 22, 2025 has notified the resignation of Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President of India, the poll panel said in a statement on Wednesday. The Election Commission of India, under Article 324, is mandated to conduct the election to the office of the Vice President of India. The Election to the office of the Vice President of India is governed by The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the rules made thereunder, namely The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Election Rules, 1974. Dhankhar, 74, assumed office in August 2022, and his tenure was till 2027. Dhankhar's abrupt resignation followed a day of surprising developments in the Rajya Sabha for the government, as an opposition-sponsored notice for a motion to remove Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma was submitted to him and he mentioned it in the House. Accordingly, the poll panel said it has already started preparing for the Vice Presidential Elections in 2025 and that the election schedule will follow soon. The poll panel also said that it has already started major pre-announcement activities, including preparing the Electoral College, finalising returning and assistant returning officers, and preparing and disseminating background material on all previous Vice Presidential elections. How is the Vice President Elected? According to Articles 63 to 71 of the Constitution and the Vice-President (Election) Rules, 1974, a formal election must be held within 60 days of Dhankhar's resignation and before 19 September 2025. The electorate or the electoral college comprises all members of both Houses of Parliamentelected and nominatedusing a proportional representation system via a single transferable vote. The MPs will cast a single transferable vote with a secret ballot. The electoral college currently has 788 MPs, 588 in Lok Sabha and 245 in Rajya Sabha. The Election Commission will announce the date of polls. The ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance(NDA) has a majority in the electorate, which includes the members of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Therefore, the probable names will likely be considered in the coming days. Who will be the next Vice President? One of the past governors, a seasoned organisational leader, or one of the Union ministers might become the next Vice President. Harivansh Narayan Singh, the Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha who is chairing the House in V-Ps absence, is among the frontrunners for the post. Some reports suggested that the L-G of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, or Delhi L-G VK Saxena, are also in the race, apart from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Dhankhar's resignation comes as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in the process of electing its new national president, replacing JP Nadda. Some reports say the saffron party may get a new president after 15 August. Dhankhar's predecessor was M Venkaiah Naidu, a former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president who was in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet when the party tapped him for the key constitutional position in 2017. What is the eligibility for a V-P? A person contesting for the post of Vice President has to be a citizen of India, at least 35 years old, qualified to be elected to the Rajya Sabha and a registered voter anywhere in India. The person must not hold any office of profit under the Union or state government, except positions like President, Governor, or Minister. Dhankhar's three-year tenure was marked by frequent run-ins with opposition parties in the Rajya Sabha, but his voluble commentary, often on contentious issues, sometimes left the government less than amused. The Election Commission of India said on July 23 that it has started the process of electing a new Vice President. The announcement comes two days after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from the post, opening the contest for his successor. Dhankhar, 74, assumed office in August 2022. His five-year term would end in August 2027. Dhankhar's abrupt resignation means a new Vice President has not been elected within the next two months. While the Election Commission has yet to announce the poll schedule, sources say the country will likely have a new Vice President by the end of August. Dhankhars resignation has set off a wave of speculations about his potential successor. One of the past governors, as Dhankhar was of West Bengal before taking the vice president's office, or a seasoned organisational leader or one of the Union ministers the BJP has a large pool of leaders to choose from for the position. Dhankhar's resignation comes as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in the process of electing its new national president, replacing JP Nadda. According to some reports, the saffron party may get a new president after 15 August. Whenever the election happens, the ruling National Democratic Alliance and the opposition INDIA bloc will field their candidates for the top post. The electorate for the Vice Presidential election comprises all members of both Houses of Parliament, using a proportional representation system via single transferable vote. The MPs will cast a single transferable vote with a secret ballot. The electoral college currently has 788 MPs- 588 in Lok Sabha and 245 in Rajya Sabha. Numbers in NDA favour The ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has a majority in the electorate, which means the NDA candidate will be the next Vice President of India At present, the effective strength of both Houses is 782, and the winning candidate will require 392 votes, considering that all eligible voters exercise their franchise. In the Lok Sabha, the BJP-led NDA enjoys the support of 293 of the 542 members. The ruling alliance has the support of 129 members in the Rajya Sabha, assuming that the nominated members vote in support of the NDA nominee, which has an adequate strength of 240. Overall, the ruling alliance has the support of 422 members in both houses, as opposed to the requirement of 394. Harivansh Narayan Singh Among the frontrunners from the NDA camp is Harivansh Narayan Singh, a Janata Dal (United) MP who has been the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman since 2020. Harivansh has been temporarily filling the role of Rajya Sabha chair until the election of the next Vice President of India. In the 2020 Deputy Speaker Elections, Harivansh defeated Opposition candidate and RJD leader Manoj Jha. Karpoori Thakur's son Ram Nath Thakur Among the names doing the rounds, Ram Nath Thakur Minister of State for Agriculture and son of former Bihar chief minister Bharat Ratna Karpoori Thakur is also being seen as a frontrunner. BJP chief JP Nadda is believed to have met Thakur on Wednesday, two days after Dhankhar quit. Thakur belongs to the Nai (barber) community, which falls under the ati-pichhara category. His pick as Vice President is seen as a strategic move ahead of upcoming elections in Bihar. Nitish Kumar Nitish Kumar's name has also been floating around for the post. However, the JD-U chief will have to leave the CM chair, months before the elections, so Kumar seems an unlikely candidate. Yet, NDA ally Upendra Kushwaha suggested that Nitish Kumar step down as CM to make way for the next generation. Manoj Sinha Manoj Sinha will complete five years as the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu and Kashmir this August, fuelling speculation about his candidature as Vice President. Sinha is a former MP, Union minister and an old BJP hand from Uttar Pradesh's Purvanchal region. Union Ministers and Tharoor Two Union Ministers Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Health Minister JP Nadda have also been suggested as contenders. Also Read | Watch Viral Video: What Jagdeep Dhankhar said about his retirement ten days ago Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has also emerged as a contender for some. To be a VP, Tharoor, who has an uneasy relationship with the Congress party, will have to leave his Lok Sabha MP seat. Dhankhar's abrupt resignation has set off a wave of speculation about his potential successor. Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan is also counted in the list. A former Congress and Janata Dal MP, Khan left Congress in 1986 over the Shah Bano case. Before Bihar, he was Governor of Kerala. Parliament Monsoon Session: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak in Parliament on Operation Sindoor next week, reports said on July 23. News agency ANI said Operation Sindoor will be discussed in Parliament next week and in the Rajya Sabha on July 29. The decision was taken during the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the upper house on July 23. However, the government has denied the Opposition's demand for a farewell speech by former vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar. The government agreed to the Opposition's demand that the seven MPs who would be retiring be allowed to make farewell speeches. Also Read | Parliament Session: Both houses adjourned as INDIA bloc protests Bihar SIR Earlier, the Business Advisory Committee meeting of the Lok Sabha was held on Monday. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union government has agreed to a 16-hour discussion in the Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack. However, this discussion will likely be taken up next week after PM Modi returns from his UK-Maldives tour. The opposition INDIA bloc has, however, insisted that the debate should start this week and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi must reply. Protests by Opposition parties disrupted both houses of Parliament on all the three days of session so far. A report in NDTV said PM will speak in Parliament next week. Rahul questions PM's silence Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence over US President Donald Trump's repeated "ceasefire" claims. Suggesting that one can't hide from reality, he said that the entire world knows that Trump announced a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan. "How can the Prime Minister give a statement? Kya bolenge PM, ki Trump ne karwaya hai? (What will he say? That Trump has announced it? He can't say it, but it is the truth. The entire world knows that Trump has announced a ceasefire. We can't hide from reality," Gandhi told reporters here. "This is not only about a ceasefire. There are several major issues that we would like to discuss related to defence, defence manufacturing, and Operation Sindoor. The condition is not normal; the entire nation knows," he added. Gandhi said the Prime Minister has not been able to provide a single response to Trump's claims about a ceasefire, which he has reiterated 25 times so far. This came after a recent statement made by Donald Trump, where he repeated his claims of "stopping the war between India and Pakistan" in the name of trade deals. Amazon is reportedly winding down its artificial intelligence research lab in Shanghai, marking a significant shift in the tech giants strategic direction in China. The lab, established in 2018 by Amazon Web Services (AWS), has been central to the companys AI research efforts in the region, but now faces closure as part of a broader restructuring, according to a report by theFinancial Times. The move follows recent job cuts across AWS, with Amazon last week confirming that it had reduced hundreds of roles globally. While the company did not directly address the closure of the Shanghai lab, a spokesperson reiterated that some positions were being eliminated across AWS. The spokesperson declined to comment specifically on the FT report. Amazon maintained that the recent layoffs arenot primarily driven by the companys increasing reliance on generative AI tools, a statement that appears to contrast with CEO Andy Jassys previous warning of potential workforce reductions linked to the growing adoption of AI technologies. According to theFinancial Times, Wang Minjie, a scientist formerly based at the Shanghai AI lab, suggested in a WeChat post that the team was being dissolved due to strategic adjustments amid US-China tensions. While the exact number of staff affected remains unclear, the decision underscores the mounting operational challenges faced by American tech firms in China. The development comes at a time of heightened scrutiny from Washington on US businesses operating in China, as geopolitical friction between the two global powers continues to escalate. These tensions, coupled with tighter regulatory oversight, appear to be influencing strategic decisions by multinational corporations. Amazon has yet to publicly confirm the closure of the Shanghai lab or provide further details regarding its future presence in China. By the close of March, Amazon was said to be the second-biggest private employer in the United States, trailing only Walmart Inc. The companys total headcount stood at approximately 1.56 million. While most of these roles involve warehouse operations such as packing and logistics, more than 350,000 employees are in corporate roles. Local 3 News was there as crews unloaded the set on Tuesday morning. More than half of the Tennessee Valley Authority workforce is represented by unions, which often lobby on TVA's behalf. Workers are pictured by the flex equipment storage building at the Watts Bar Nuclear Plant in Spring City, TN. The ISPCA invited Chanelle Pharma to the National Animal Centre on Friday, July 18 to see first-hand the work they do, and acknowledge the national flea and worm awareness campaign, as well as the importance of volunteering at the Centre. Calling the partnership of a corporate and charity together as marvellous, the day gave the opportunity for Chanelle Pharma staff to participate in some tasks around the Centre, such as dog-walking and deep cleaning rabbit hutches. Read more: Longford Teagasc advisor outlines multiple benefits of creep grazing for suckler calves The beginning of the day had a presentation by Cillian, who runs the Longford Centre. The presentation was an overview of the work done by the ISPCA. He explained that over 1,500 animals are helped annually. In 2024, 2,741 complaints were made to the Helpline, as well as 37 convictions by ISPCA Inspectors in the same year. As Cillian said: Our Inspectors would prefer to check something out and find it to be nothing than not to check. The presentation celebrated the presence of the Animal Care Assistants, who are considered the core of the animal centre. Cillian described them as everyday heroes for doing all the early morning feeds to late check-ins, as well as all the jobs in-between. It also gave some backstory to the ISPCA, how it started in 1949, with the National Animal Centre founded in 2002. The four centres are Longford, Mallow, Wicklow and Donegal, with the motto of: Rescue, Rehabilitation and Responsible Rehoming. Carmel Murray, who manages digital marketing for the ISPCA, explained what happens when animals arrive at the Centre from their Inspectors. Animals first go into our isolation area first where they are accessed and checked for health issues and treated for any injuries by the vet. They are vaccinated, neutered, microchipped and treated for parasites. There is strict barrier nursing in our isolation areas to contain any concerns such as mange, so these areas are restricted, and staff wear PPE so there is no cross contamination. We regularly admit animals suffering from parasite infestation, which is easily preventable by regularly treating animals for worms and fleas etc. Once the animals get the all-clear, they then into the main area as they go through their rehabilitation journey in preparation for rehoming. Cillian also showed the dogs in a round enclosed sand arena, which is in a field opposite the kennels. Cillian, whose expertise is also in dog behaviour, explained how this is a great facility and can be used if it is rainy, but we can let the dogs play off lead; and this is great for a meet and greet for prospective dog adopters who want to see if their current dog is compatible with them. Cillian did a training and dog behaviour demonstration for the Chanelle team, which was warmly received. Russell Good from Chanelle Pharma commented: Were very grateful first and foremost. I think the ISPCAs mission is to be surrounded by animal health and to be the gatekeepers of animal health in Ireland. Likewise, Chanelle Pharmas mission is to enhance the lives of animals worldwide and we export a lot as well. We manufacture. Thats our business model. Were the largest manufacturer of generic medicines for the animal health industry in Ireland. Having offices in Jordan and Portugal as well, Chanelle Pharma donated a cheque in the amount of 23, 549 to the ISPCA, which was received with a group photo outside the main house. This initiative, in partnership with Chanelle Pharma, aimed to highlight the importance of regular flea and worm treatments for pets. Every Fleaway Plus that was purchased led to 50c being given to the ISPCA, which led to this successful campaign result. Read more: Advice for Longford farmers with cattle over serious disease with warmer months If you are considering expanding your pet family, get in touch with the ISPCA by email at rehoming@ispca.ie and call 043 33 25035 if you are interested in becoming an ISPCA Volunteer. For more information visit www.ispca.ie Local residents and a councillor have highlighted concerns about an imminent planning application for a second solar farm in the Ballymahon area with the burden on local people described as being 'too much'. The Foigha Solar Concern Group has asked whether local people in the greater Ballymahon area are to be "we to be 'completely industrialised' by two large-scale solar farm projects and a 'massive' wind farm near Kenagh. Read more: Decision on Family resource Centre for Longford due in the autumn BNRG, an Irish-owned leader in clean renewable energy, in partnership with Plan Energy Developments, recently announced its intention to seek planning permission for a 94-megawatt solar farm near Ballymahon. It comes just under seven months after another company Foigha Solar Farm Ltd, a subsidiary of BayWa r.e. Ireland, lodged a planning application last December to develop a solar farm on a 130-hectare site in the townlands of Cornacarta, Doonacurry, Foygh, Kilcommock Glebe, Ledwithstown and Tirlickeen. Brian Egan (50), a married father of two who lives in the centre of Kenagh and works from his business in the Tirlickeen area is relatively close to both proposed projects. "It is too much, I think it's bringing down the countryside and rural Ireland is being taken away. In February 2025, a request for further information was issued in relation to the proposed Foigha Solar Farm project. Residents have raised concerns in relation to this application in relation to visual impact fears, glare and noise, potential biodiversity loss and poor public consultation. It was previously estimated residents in up to 100 houses may be impacted. Mr Egan is not a member of any group and he has described himself as a 'concerned citizen'. He said his home in Kenagh and his tyre business in Terlicken will be close to both proposed solar farms. "I won't be able to see it from my house and I live about half a mile away, but my issue is I think there should be a law against having these solar farms on prime agricultural land." Mr Egan attended a recent information evening on the proposed BNRG development on Wednesday, July 16, but it did little to ease his concerns. "On the proposed two sites there, you are looking at about 600 acres. "An average family farm in Ireland is about 80 acres so you could say there are six to seven family-sized farms gone." Mr Egan claimed just a stone's throw away from the second proposed solar farm in Foigha is 5,000 acres of 'bog' and he believes the developments will dominate the landscape and hamper food production. "The devaluing of people's property is a concern, some of these solar farms will be going right up to the front and back doors of houses and decreasing their houses." A spokesperson on behalf of The Foigha Solar Concern Group said they are 'dismayed' that plans are well underway to submit planning permission for a second 250 acre solar farm at Terlicken. This area is being inundated with renewable energy projects with a massive windfarm project in the planning stages also. We are questioning, how much is too much for this rural area of South County Longford? Are we to be completely industrialised with a massive wind farm on the Lanesboro side coming up to parts of Kenagh, particularly Mosstown and then onto The Foigha Solar Farm and across the road to the Terlicken Solar Farm? This seems grossly unfair on local residents who would see their lives completely changed. Independent Councillor Mark Casey said he is not against renewable energy but the proposed projects are "just two big for the rural area. We are trying to promote tourism in Corlea there, and we are trying to get people to go on the canal and get people out and active again. And we're putting in these massive monstrosities? BNRG have said the areas for their solar farm had been carefully selected to minimise local impact, using existing agricultural land with good access to regional roads and proximity to the national electricity grid. A public consultation period began on July 12 to inform the local community about the project and gather feedback and there was a public information clinic in Ballymahon on Wednesday, July 16 where the company said residents had an opportunity to meet experts from the development team. Further information is available at www.bnrgballymahon.com. A BNRG spokesman said their project remains at an early, pre-planning stage. No planning application has been submitted, and community feedback will help inform design changes. We initiated community engagement early to gain an understanding of local views and concerns. Many residents expressed positive reaction to the proposed project, while others raised valid concerns. We appreciate both." Read more: Longford farmers unhappy over claims of private land flooded with EU programme A spokesperson from BayWa r.e. Ireland gave a response to concerns raised: Since submitting our initial application in December 2024, we have taken on board the feedback from local residents and Longford Council. Right now, were in the process of preparing a formal response, and at the same time, were putting together updated information for residents to explain whats changed, what weve heard, and how were responding to those concerns. That will include more detail on things like visual impact, biodiversity, and how the project sits within the wider area. We want to be open about what were doing and keep people informed along the way. Id encourage anyone with questions or concerns to reach out to us directly. Gardai arrested and charged a man following a public order incident at a Ballymahon housing estate over the weekend and they are separately investigating a nearby criminal damage incident which occurred several hour later. The first incident occurred at 10pm when Gardai received a report of a public order incident and a disturbance at St Matthew's Park. Officers subsequently arrested a man, in his 30s, in connection with the incident a short time later and he appeared in court on Sunday afternoon. READ NEXT: Two solar farms are 'grossly unfair' as Longford concerns are highlighted Separately, just over three hours after the public order incident Gardai received a complaint in relation to a criminal damage incident, which is presently being investigated. A Garda spokesman said, "Gardai arrested and charged a man, aged in his 30s, following a Public Order incident at St Matthews Park, Ballymahon, Longford, at approximately 10pm on July 19th, 2025. "The man appeared before Longford District Court on Sunday afternoon, 20th July 2025. READ NEXT: Longford man with 109 convictions denied bail after appearing in court "As this matter is now before the courts, An Garda Siochana is not in a position to comment further at this time. "Separately, Gardai received a report of criminal damage at a housing estate in Ballymahon, Co Longford, which occurred between 12:15am and 1:30am on the July 19th 2025. "Investigation ongoing." A family-run garage in Longford has marked its one-year anniversary as a First Stop partner with the installation of striking new signage to the tune of 7,000 - and the results are already turning heads. McKeon Tyres, a trusted name in the Longford community for nearly 20 years, is celebrating 12 successful months with First Stop by unveiling bold new branding at its site, in a visual statement thats already driving greater visibility, increased customer traffic and a renewed sense of momentum. Read more: Longford ISPCA celebrates nationwide campaign with Chanelle Pharma for awareness The business, run by the McKeon family, has long been known for its personal approach and tailored service for its customers. But according to branch manager Erin Duffy, the move to First Stop has added a premium layer to everything they do. The signage has been a gamechanger for us, Erin said. Its elevated our presence and it has coincided with more traffic on the forecourt. You can see the First Stop branding clearly from the road and its sparked more conversations with new customers. Just from speaking with people coming in, its clear that its made a big difference. Signage is just one of the many areas of support now being enjoyed by McKeon Tyres, as part of First Stops strategic package. From e-commerce enablement and Google My Business management through to product exclusivity and marketing toolkits, the garage now benefits from the backing of a national brand, all while staying rooted in the local community. First Stop takes care of the digital side of the business, which has taken a huge amount of pressure off us, Erin added. We can focus on delivering great service in the garage, knowing the website, Google profile and even online bookings are being handled in the background. Its been a real value-add. McKeon Tyres offers a broad range of services beyond just tyre fitting, including diagnostics, servicing, wheel alignment, brake repairs, exhausts, MOTs, mobile tyre services and even 24-hour breakdown assistance - along with commercial and fleet tyre support. First Stop Ireland Territory Manager Celine May said: Its been fantastic to work with such a forward-thinking, family-run business like McKeon Tyres. They embody the same values we believe in: trust, professionalism and local service backed by national strength. Were proud to support them and look forward to building on this momentum together. Read more: Longford RFC are thrilled for the hugely successful Fittest Superstars event First Stop Ireland now boasts 53 locations across the country and is targeting 10 more new partners by the end of the year, offering the same transformative support to independent garages who want to grow with confidence. For more information about First Stop Ireland and McKeon Tyres, visit https://www.firststop.ie/ Athlone Midland Samaritans are inviting members of the public to attend their awareness stand at Longford Shopping Centre this coming Thursday, July 24. We would be delighted to talk to anyone who would like to hear more about the work of Samaritans or who might be interested in becoming a Samaritan volunteer, said a spokesperson for the organisation ahead of the event. Athlone Midlands Samaritans is urging people to reach out for help after one recent caller revealed how he inspired a new campaign. Athlones Nathan Green (pictured below) said Samaritans helped me through the darkest moments when he was struggling and going through a tough time. Last year he completed a 24-hour silence for Samaritans Awareness Day - held on July 24 - to show the Samaritans are there 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on freephone 116 123 or by email at jo@samaritans.ie. The awareness day inspired 'Shush For Samaritans' one of four 24-hour challenges for supporters to raise funds for the charity, this July. Funds raised will support branches across Ireland including Athlone Midland Samaritans. Nathan (22) said: I was always seen as the bubbly, outgoing one - always trying to put a smile on peoples faces. But that didnt mean everything was always fine behind the scenes. Like many others, I went through times when I struggled. And during those moments, Samaritans were there. They were the voice at the end of the phone when I felt like I had no one else. Sometimes I called in tears, other times just needing someone to listen. I never felt judged - only supported. Those calls helped me through the darkest moments, and looking back now, I truly believe they played a part in shaping the person Ive become." Samaritans is the charity that prevents suicide through the power of human connection. Anne McGrath, Branch Director with Athlone and Midland Samaritans, commented: Samaritans Awareness Day is such an important date for us we want to get the message out that Samaritans are here 24 hours a day, for anyone in crisis and struggling to cope, on freephone 116 123. It remains a challenging time for many people and we want to remind the public that they are not alone. Our volunteers are here at any time of day or night, whatever they are facing. You can contact Samaritans FREE at any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit and the number wont show up on your phone bill. *SPONSORED CONTENT Local News By Chris Boyle Published: July 23 2025 New York Continues Momentum of Broadband Access after Trump Administration Slashes All Funding for Digital Equity and Education Programs. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the re-release of the ConnectALL Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications (RFA), committing over $5 million in State funding to continue New York's digital equity grantmaking after federal funding was terminated by the Trump administration in May 2025. The ConnectALL Digital Equity Program will award grants across the state to support digital equity and inclusion projects that provide New Yorkers with devices, skills, and awareness needed to make use of affordable, reliable broadband service. Applications are due August 25, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET and must be submitted through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application Portal at https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa. Digital access is essential for success in todays world whether its applying for a job, completing schoolwork, accessing health care, or staying connected to loved ones. In New York, we believe that access to affordable, reliable internet is a basic right, not a luxury, Governor Hochul said. Thats why we are taking action to ensure every New Yorker has the tools, skills, and support they need to thrive in the digital age. No matter the challenges, we will continue forging ahead investing in communities, strengthening partnerships, and delivering on our promise of a more connected and equitable future. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, Digital equity is essential to economic mobility, educational access, and full participation in modern life. New York State remains unwavering in our commitment to ensuring that every community urban, rural, and everything in betweencan connect to the resources and opportunities the digital world offers. Through continued investment, strong partnerships, and innovative strategies, we are moving forward to close the digital divide and build a more inclusive future for all New Yorkers. Governor Hochul also announced a campaign to educate New Yorkers on the low-cost internet service options available under New York States Affordable Broadband Act (ABA) the nation's first legally mandated low-cost broadband option. Under the ABA, internet service providers are required to offer internet connections for $20/month or less and to promote and provide enrollment guidance to consumers. By re-releasing the Digital Equity Program RFA, ConnectALL reaffirms the Governors commitment to address barriers to internet adoption and access and enhance the opportunities and security for New Yorkers using the internet by: Increasing access to affordable broadband subscriptions Providing access to internet devices Expanding digital literacy programs Protecting the privacy and safety of residents, and Ensuring the accessibility of government services ConnectALL will work with state and local partners to promote enrollment in low-cost internet options secured for eligible consumers through the Affordable Broadband Act. This groundbreaking legislation has earned national recognition, with ConnectALL winning the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) Community Broadband and Digital Equity Award for 2025 Broadband Visionary/Legislative Achievement of the Year. ConnectALL will partner with New York City and State agencies to engage with eligible households, make them aware of low-cost internet plans, and support their enrollment. This partnership will implement a multi-channel outreach strategy that includes multilingual flyers, text campaigns to households receiving public benefits, summer street and back-to-school outreach, information via NYC 3-1-1, and a plain language self-enrollment guide, among other actions. In addition, the State is investing $500,000 in 2-1-1 NY, a subsidiary of the United Way New York, to launch ABA support for 2-1-1 callers with screenings and targeted enrollment guidance for up to 10,000 low-income households seeking reduced-cost internet services outside of New York City. Expanding New York's Digital Infrastructure Governor Hochul has made expanding broadband access a cornerstone of her administration's efforts to create a more equitable New York. Through the ConnectALL initiative, New York State is investing over $1 billion to transform the state's digital infrastructure, enhance competition among providers, and ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. To date, ConnectALL has overseen the successful launch and implementation of several programs to advance broadband access, including: The Digital Equity Program is implementing the $50 million New York State Digital Equity Plan to close the digital divide. The Plan outlines New Yorks statewide strategy to increase its capacity to improve digital literacy and digital job readiness skills, facilitate access to affordable internet and devices, enhance digital privacy and safety, and make government services more accessible through the internet. The Municipal Infrastructure Program has awarded over $242 million to support construction of open access municipal broadband networks across the state. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury under the American Rescue Plans Capital Projects fund, facilitates a variety of models of municipal broadband and public-private partnerships to provide New Yorkers with affordable, high-quality service options. Information on projects funded through this program is available on the ConnectALL Projects Dashboard (Beta) The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program will bring new broadband infrastructure to homes in affordable and public housing leveraging federal support from the U.S. Treasury Departments Capital Projects Fund as part of an overall $100 million investment. Information on projects funded through this program is available on the ConnectALL Projects Dashboard (Beta) The ConnectALL Deployment Program will provide funding for internet service providers to reach unserved and underserved locations, drawing on an allocation of $664.6 million in federal funding as described in the ConnectALL Broadband Deployment Initial Proposal. ConnectALL is currently accepting applications and prequalification applications with information available on the ConnectALL website. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: July 23 2025 Rabies is Rare in Humans, but Endemic in New York Wildlife; Precautions Include Avoiding Contact with Bats, Raccoons, Foxes and Stray Cats. On Tuesday, July 22, Nassau County Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman made a formal declaration that rabies now presents a imminent public health threat to local residents. This comes after 25 cases of rabid animals have been confirmed within the county's borders since July 2024, including animals such as raccoons and feral cats. The resurgence of rabies in Nassau County, with its high population density and after nearly a decade of absence, represents a serious and evolving public health concern, said Gelman. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman echoed Gelman's sentiments, saying With this declaration, we are taking decisive action to safeguard our residents, their families, and their pets from this dangerous virus." In addition, the New York State Department of Health is urging New Yorkers to take precautions to prevent exposure to rabies, especially during summer months. Rabies is a deadly disease caused by the rabies virus. The Department strongly advises against handling wild and stray animals and encourages immediate medical care if exposed. Iraqi Prime Minister Shia al Sudani (far right) met with Brigadier General Kevin Lambert (far left), the incoming commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, and other top US officials on July 21. (Iraqi Prime Ministers Office) Brigadier General Kevin Lambert took over as the new commander of the anti-Islamic State coalition of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) in a ceremony in Iraq on July 21. Lambert assumes the role at a complex time and will likely oversee significant changes and challenges to the mission in Syria and Iraq over the next year. US Central Command head General Michael Erik Kurilla attended the handover ceremony. The outgoing commander, Major General Kevin Leahy, had assumed command of the mission in August 2024. Commanders of CJTF-OIR serve for a year, so the transfer to Lambert was expected. Maj. Gen. Leahy was the 11th commander of CJTF-OIR since the task force was formed in 2014 to reclaim land stolen by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, dismantle the groups network, and protect the population from its violence and influence, the US military noted. The office of Iraqi Prime Minister Shia al Sudani announced meeting with the new US commander on the same day of the handover, underscoring the importance that the US-led mission continues to hold for Iraqs leadership. On July 21, Sudani received Kurilla, Leahy, and Lambert at his office, along with US Charge dAffaires Steven Fagin. The meeting included a review of cooperation between Iraq and the International Coalition, its various phases of development, and preparations for transitioning to bilateral security relations with coalition member states, the Iraqi Prime Minister Media Office stated. Sudani also discussed developments in Syria and their implications for regional security. The US has forces in Syria and Iraq as part of the campaign against the Islamic State (IS). In Iraq, the US partners with the Iraqi Army as well as the Peshmerga security forces of the autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government. In Syria, the US partners with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in eastern Syria and also maintains a small garrison at Tanf in southern Syria. Sudani stressed the importance of maintaining stability, avoiding triggers that could escalate conflicts, and upholding the sovereignty of states. He also emphasized the importance of diplomacy, a declaration that comes a month after the US supported a Qatar-backed ceasefire that suspended the 12-Day War between Israel and Iran, which included one round of US airstrikes on Iran. The conflict affected Iraqi airspace, forcing commercial flights to divert. In addition, drone attacks began in Iraq on June 24 in the wake of the war and have continued over the last month. The US and UK, as well as the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), have called for the drone attacks, which have targeted radar sites and energy facilities, to be investigated. Many analysts believe that Iraqs Iran-backed militias are behind the attacks, and the KRG has explicitly placed the blame on them. During the July 21 handover ceremony at Union III base in Baghdads Green Zone, Leahy noted that CJTF-OIR is a coalition, which includes Iraq, thats significantly diminished the ability of ISIS to conduct operations in Iraq and Syria, or export violence around the region and the world. Leahy said that the enduring defeat of the Islamic State continues to require perseverance. I look forward to strengthening our partnerships as we maintain pressure on defeating Daesh in Iraq and Syria, Lambert added. The U.S.-led coalition continues its mission to build, maintain, and sustain counterterrorism partner capacity to repress ISIS remnants in Syria and Iraq, a US military statement about the handover noted. Lambert will oversee significant potential changes to the mission in Syria and Iraq. In Syria, the US has withdrawn from several posts in the last six months. It has been re-deploying and consolidating forces in the wake of the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime and a deal announced in March between the SDF and the new transitional government in Damascus. Although CJTF-OIR does not specify the precise posts the US continues to use in Syria, Turkeys Anadolu Agency reported in June that the US is restructuring its military presence in northeastern Syria by reducing troop levels and shuttering multiple bases, scaling down from eight to three installations, with plans to consolidate operations at a single base in the future. The report also claimed that the US continues to operate at Omar oil field near the Euphrates River, as well as near Shaddadi and Qasrek, which is northwest of Hasakah. The US has backed and facilitated the SDFs outreach to the Damascus government. However, recent clashes in Suwayda Governorate between pro-government forces and Syrias Druze minority may delay the planned SDF integration into the new Syrian security forces. In late 2024, an estimated 2,000 US personnel were present in Syria. There have also been limited numbers of French and British forces in the country operating with CJTF-OIR, but it is unclear how many remain. In April, French Army Brigadier General Olivier Celo, the director of civil affairs for CJTF-OIR, went to Tanf to meet with Syrian Free Army (SFA) commander Colonel Abu Turki. The SFA unit in Tanf, which was backed and trained by the US-led coalition for more than half a decade, recently became part of the new Syrian armys 70th Division. The groups last public operation as the SFA was in late April. In Iraq, the US has maintained an estimated 2,500 troops over the last year. They are deployed at Union III, Al Assad Airbase, and several posts in the Kurdistan region. In 2024, the Pentagon announced that coalition forces were entering a new phase that would involve withdrawing from locations in Iraq and conclude by September 2025. In mid-July, Estonia became the latest country to withdraw its forces from a role in CJTF-OIR in Iraq. It is unclear whether the September timeline will be met. The US-backed train and equip program for Iraq appears likely to continue. However, the final details on funding for that program and others in Iraq and Syria will need to wait until the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act is passed. In the Kurdistan region, the new CJTF-OIR commander will continue to work with the Kurdish Peshmerga as they work towards reform and unification of their units. Lambert, a 1993 University of North Georgia graduate, previously served as the deputy commanding general of maneuver for the US Armys 3rd Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart, Georgia, as well as the V Corps deputy commanding general of support from July 2023 to May 2024. He has been deployed to Haiti, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan and worked with the Saudi Arabian National Guard, according to a US military biography. Lambert recently served as the commanding general of the US Army Security Force Assistance Command, where he was involved in exercises with the 3rd Security Force Assistance Brigade, a unit that has played a key role in advising the Peshmerga in northern Iraq. Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024). iPhones are built to last a long time, which means that there are a lot of Lightning-equipped iPhones still in use, even though Apple replaced the Lightning port on its iPhones with USB-C in 2023 with the iPhone 15. And with USB-C connectors and cables becoming more and more ubiquitous, Lightning iPhones can leave you unable to connect if you dont have an adapter handy. Ken Pillonels new invention makes life easier for Lightning iPhone users. His company, Obsoless, is offering the iPh0n3 USB-C Protection Case, which has a built-in Lightning-to-USB-C adapter, so you never have to worry about carrying one around with you. The case has a Lightning connector inside that works with the USB-C port on the corner of the case. It supports fast charging, data transfers, and CarPlay, but devices that draw power from the iPhone through the port (like some USB-C speakers or headphones) will not work. The cases is available only in strong dark gray, but it does work with MagSafe. Obsoless states the the case is available for iPhones as old as the iPhone XS, but many of the cases made during the first production run are sold out. A second run is in the works, with availability by the end of August. Of the inventory remaining, prices range from CHF 43.90 (Swiss francsOboless is in Switerzerland) for an iPhone 13 mini case to CHF 49.90 for an iPhone 14 Pro Max case. Thats about $55 and $63, respectively. The prices do not include shipping. Learn more about the iPh0n3 USB-C Protection Case by watching the YouTube video below. Pillonel made headlines four years ago when he modified an iPhone X (or Xs) and replaced the Lightning port with USB-C. He eventually sold that iPhone and started a business making accessories that are sold through Obsoless. If you dont care about the mod and just want an iPhone case for your brand-new iPhone, check out our guide for the best iPhone 16 cases for 16 & Plus, 16 Pro & Pro Max, 16e. BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- China has stepped up credit support for technology companies this year, with half of the sector's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) receiving loans by the end of the second quarter, official data showed Tuesday. The proportion of tech SMEs receiving loan support increased 3.2 percentage points compared to the same period last year, according to the People's Bank of China (PBOC), the country's central bank. Outstanding loans to tech SMEs in both local and foreign currencies stood at 3.46 trillion yuan (about 484 billion U.S. dollars) by Q2, surging 22.9 percent year on year. This growth rate outpaced overall loan growth by 16.1 percentage points, the PBOC said in a report. Outstanding loans to high-tech firms in both local and foreign currencies rose 8.2 percent year on year, 1.4 percentage points higher than the overall loan growth rate, the report showed. The report also indicated stronger credit support for the country's green transition, with outstanding green loans in both local and foreign currencies reaching 42.39 trillion yuan by the end of the second quarter, an increase of 14.4 percent from the beginning of this year. By Mata Press Service Two new federal reports have reignited the national debate over immigration and housing, with both offering different perspectives on what and who is driving Canadas rental crisis. The first, from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), suggests that immigration and international student caps are already having an impact. In its Mid-Year Rental Market Update, released July 8, CMHC states: In some centres, vacancy and availability rates are rising in newly built rental units, while rent growth is slowing. The agency points directly to recent federal decisions: We believe that recent changes to immigration targets and a cap on the number of international students allowed in the country will cause rental demand to slow. In cities like Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, CMHC notes that newly completed rental buildings are taking longer to fill, with landlords offering signing bonuses and free rent to attract tenants. Rent expectations over the next 12 months declined across most regions, particularly in new buildings, the report states. Despite these signs of cooling, affordability remains a major concern. In Vancouver, renters are spending 17.8 percent of their income on housing, while in Toronto, the number sits at 16.4 percent, according to the report. But just weeks before CMHCs findings, a separate federal study delivered a different conclusion. The Immigration and Housing Prices report, published on June 20 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in collaboration with Statistics Canada, examined census data from 2006 to 2021. It found that while immigration did contribute to rising rents and housing prices, its impact was modest compared to other drivers especially in smaller cities and rural areas. Immigration explains roughly 11 per cent of the increase in housing prices and rents, the study concluded. For larger cities with over 100,000 residents, the impact was more pronounced 21 per cent of housing price growth and 13 per cent of rent increases could be attributed to newcomers. However, the researchers stressed that immigration is just one of many factors affecting affordability. The real issue, they say, is Canadas chronic underbuilding: In the long term, sustained increases in demand without commensurate increases in supply can lead to upward pressure on prices. This disconnect between short-term easing and long-term structural failure is now central to Canadas immigration and housing policy and to Prime Minister Mark Carneys plan to align the two. Since taking office earlier this year, Carney has positioned himself as a centrist reformer determined to make immigration sustainable. He plans to slow the pace of newcomers but not abandon Canadas historic commitment to welcoming them. In practical terms, that means: Reducing the number of temporary residents from about 6.2 per cent of the population to 5 per cent by 2027 Keeping permanent resident admissions below 1 per cent of the total population, bringing levels down to 365,000 annually by 2027 Capping international student visas and linking future approvals to a regions available housing and job market Carney has also promised stronger federal oversight of schools and employers that rely heavily on foreign talent. In a May mandate letter, he called for returning overall immigration to sustainable levels and attracting top global talent to help build Canadas economy. For many Canadians, the CMHC data may appear to justify these actions. After all, fewer newcomers mean less competition for housing and in some cases, lower rents. But as the IRCCStatsCan study makes clear, immigration has been only a part of the housing story, and not always the largest part. The deeper problem is Canadas consistent failure to build enough homes, fast enough, to keep up with demand. Immigration made that gap visible it didnt create it. Both reports suggest that trying to manage housing affordability through immigration caps alone is shortsighted. The CMHC data shows that even with fewer international students and slower population growth, affordability remains out of reach for many. And the IRCCStatsCan report warns that if supply doesnt increase, any demand reduction will only offer short-lived relief. In other words, without a surge in housing construction, policy changes that reduce immigration may weaken Canadas long-term economic prospects without solving its affordability crisis. The numbers reinforce that reality. Purpose-built rentals, even when vacant longer, still come at a premium. In many markets, new units rent for 25 to 40 per cent more than older stock, keeping them out of reach for many newcomers, especially those on student visas or working lower-wage jobs. Immigration didnt cause the housing crisis it exposed it, said an immigration policy researcher. Weve had decades of underbuilding, especially rental housing. Slowing immigration may ease demand in the short term, but it also weakens the workforce we need to build more homesand cutting their numbers wont fix it, he said. An affordable housing analyst in Vancouver said the CMHC report shows a slight cooling, but the big picture hasnt changed. Affordability is still terrible because we dont have enough homes. Immigration caps wont fix that. They might just make us feel like were doing something when were not, he said. By Rochelle Baker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Danny Masuzumi Sr. shakes his head, recalling the jumble of emotions he experienced as a raging wildfire bore down on the remote Kahsho Got'ine community of Fort Good Hope, NWT. A year ago, local leaders, other emergency personnel, Masuzumi and his team of Indigenous Guardians had to make a terrifying decision to evacuate with most of the community living alongside the east bank of the Mackenzie River or stay and fight the fire along with territorial wildfire crews. They chose to stay. We had no hoses, no pumps, no nothing, said Masuzumi, executive director of the K'ahsho Got'ine Foundation that manages the protection of the communitys new Indigenous and Territorial Protected Area with the help of its Guardian team working on the ground to monitor and care for lands and waters. It was kind of overwhelming how a person can feel when something is coming right at you and could destroy your community, Masuzumi said. While the Kahsho Gotine leadership scrambled to obtain necessary firefighting equipment, Masuzumi and the Guardians, along with another 30 or so residents, teamed up to protect their homes or evacuate residents. Some community members had recently completed basic wildfire training from Yukon First Nations Wildfire, an organization working to deepen and develop Indigenous firefighting capacity in the north, Masuzumi said. The team rounded up water trucks and other heavy equipment and started putting firebreaks in place to protect the community. While most residents were transported to nearby communities, the Guardian crew also evacuated almost 100 residents and cared for them at a fish camp across the river that theyd been setting up for an elders and youth cultural exchange. It was round-the-clock work in difficult conditions, Masuzumi said. It was a really busy, really overwhelming two days of fighting the fire. While buildings in the community were saved from the blaze sparked by an unattended campfire the wildfire burned for three weeks, preventing residents return and scorching more than 8,200 hectares of land before people were given the all clear to return July 6. The wildfire underscored the value of Guardian involvement in a community-led response, Masuzumi said. He added the Kahsho Gotine Guardians could do more if they were funded year-round not just for their environmental monitoring, but as wildfire stewards who work in cooler months to prevent, reduce the intensity and frequency of blazes, and lead recovery and restoration efforts in their territory after climate disasters. The longstanding process of extinguishing all fires, instead of letting them burn naturally, has led to the build-up of dead wood and brush, increasing the severity of fires when they occur, said Indigenous fire stewardship expert Amy Cardinal Christianson. Replanting after logging with a single species of tree that is often more combustible has also fuelled the intensity of fires, said Christianson, also a policy expert with the Indigenous Leadership Initiative (ILI). However, cultural burning, an Indigenous practice of setting selective fires in wet, cooler seasons, helps reduce catastrophic fires and protect important natural areas. Indigenous people have been living on the Canadian landscape for millennia in forests that need fire, she said. However, traditional fire stewardship isnt well-supported by government policies or funding, Christianson said. In some seasons, hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars go into fighting wildfires, but little actually goes into prevention or mitigation, Christianson said. We see having Guardians as a really cost-effective way to employ people on the land in a way that achieves big benefits." Australia is leading the way by including traditional fire stewardship as part of their Indigenous Ranger program, she said. Indigenous people [in Canada] have really demonstrated they want to be more involved in decision-making about fire in their territories, Christianson said. Its imperative that fire management is included in the Kahsho Got'ine land-use plan being developed for the new Tsude Niline Tuyeta conservation area, Masuzumi said. But sourcing the money from territorial or federal governments or conservation agreements by applying for time-consuming, short-term grants is always an issue. We always have to scratch our heads and figure out where the funding is going to come from, he said. Wildfire training and certification is also controlled by outside agencies not typically geared to Indigenous communities' needs or aligned with their values, Christianson said. For example, the firefighting course the Kahsho Got'ine took wasnt recognized at the time the wildfire threatened their community. Provinces and territories control who is a certified firefighter, and theres a growing push from Guardians and nations that want to develop training and firefighting objects suited to their needs, Christianson added. Standard wildfire suppression prioritizes human life and buildings and infrastructure while leaving wildfire to tear across open landscapes. However, all Indigenous communities have natural areas vital to their well-being that need to be included in fire management, Masuzumi said. When we have fires out in our territory just like in every other First Nations territory we all have burial sites or traditional areas where we go, he said. We always try to protect those areas because those are sacred to us. Water is also part of the equation, said Masuzumi, who has taken samples from important lakes in his territory for over a decade. The water thats from a lake thats got burnt trees is not the same, he said. It takes a long time for water to turn back to its normal state. Our elders say we have to fight the fire around lakes because the fish are going to die. So, the government doesn't understand those kinds of things, right? They look at it from a different perspective. Theres increasing public conversation about Indigenous fire stewardship after the recent string of savage wildfire seasons, but that hasnt resulted in concrete changes on the ground, Christianson said. Long-term sustainable funding for Guardians to manage wildfire concerns, Indigenous-focused fire training, or the protection of culturally important areas when fighting fires isnt taking place, Christianson said. We're seeing a lot of talk, but not action in the way that we want, which is recognizing Indigenous sovereignty to the land and to fire management in our territories, and being able to make important choices, she said. Masuzumi agreed. Our job as guardians is to make sure were going to take care of the environment, he said. We have the training to prevent [wildfires] from getting worse. We have to be the first line of action. Rochelle Baker / Local Journalism Initiative / Canada's National Observer. SPRINGFIELD Ska lovers rejoice. Fans of the genre can get their fill of music at the second annual Pioneer Valley Ska Festival on Friday and Saturday at 52 Sumner in Springfield. The former church will host ska bands from all over New England, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma and beyond. Not quite sure what ska is and think you might want to give the festival a try? An Acushnet man has died after he was pulled from the water at a Fairhaven beach Tuesday night, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn IIIs office said. At around 5:01 p.m., first responders received a 911 call about a possible drowning at Seaview Avenue near the boat ramp, Quinns office said in a statement. Police and EMS found Wayne Silveira, 77, who was unconscious after he was pulled out of the water, with someone at the beach performing CPR, the statement read. Silveira was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead, Quinns office said. Silveiras death is not considered to be suspicious. Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to Quinns office and Fairhaven police continue to investigate the incident. A homicide arrest warrant was issued for a man who faces charges in connection with a fatal double shooting that killed two teenagers in a Brockton parking lot in March, while two accomplices were charged in court, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruzs office said Wednesday. Davinci Leonard, 22, faces two counts of first-degree murder and four gun charges in connection with the shooting deaths of 15-year-old Brockton resident Tymari Albertson and 18-year-old New Bedford resident Cevannah Alvarez at Westgate Mall on March 22. As investigators continue to search for Leonard, the U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward for any information that will lead to his location, Cruzs office said in a statement. Two other men arrested in connection with the shooting were arraigned in Plymouth Superior Court on Wednesday, Cruzs office said. Quincy resident David Mosley-Lott, 32, was charged with one count each of accessory after the fact and intimidation of a witness. Jaylen Speed, 24, of Dorchester, was charged with accessory after the fact. A judge held both men on $50,000 bail and ordered them to wear a location-monitoring bracelet, stay in their respective homes and stay away from witnesses. Speeds next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 13, with Mosley-Lotts scheduled for Aug. 14. Leonard, Mosley-Lott and Speed were all indicted late in June. Brockton police received a 911 call about a shooting outside the Chipotle at Westgate Mall shortly after 7 p.m. on March 22, the district attorneys office said previously. At the scene, they found Albertson with two gunshot wounds and Alvarez with one. Mosely-Lott is suspected of letting Leonard sleep at his home after the shooting and ordering a woman to dispose of her cell phone after police contacted her about the incident, Cruzs office previously said. Preliminary findings by Brockton police and Massachusetts State Police investigators indicate Leonard as the shooter, Cruzs office said Wednesday. Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of Davinci Leonard is asked to call Massachusetts State Police at 1-800-527-8873. The firing of two long-time Market Basket executives by the companys board of directors on Tuesday was "among the worst decisions that could be made," the grocery store chains CEO said in a statement Tuesday evening. Earlier in the day, Board Member Steven Collins called the Tewksbury-based companys operations manager, Joe Schmidt, and grocery supervisor, Tom Gordon, to inform them of the boards decision to remove them from their positions, Market Basket CEO Arthur T. Demoulas said. The chief executive plans to use all efforts to reverse this heartless and unwarranted decision. In addition to being men of strong character, these are two of the brightest and best grocery store operators in the business, and their extraordinary work has been key to building this company and its culture, his statement reads. Schmidt and Gordon could not be reached for comment Tuesday evening. Demoulas, Schmidt and Gordon have all been on paid leave since late May at the behest of the board, which cited concerns that the three executives were planning a work stoppage in the hopes of protecting Demoulas from being fired. The CEO responded by quickly denying the boards claims, calling it a facade for a hostile takeover of the grocery store chain. Schmidt and Gordon also told news outlets at the time that they expected to soon lose their jobs. On Tuesday, the board of directors reiterated accusations that Schmidt and Gordon were encouraging Market Basket employees to engage in workplace disruptions despite being asked to stop, The Boston Globe reported. The board also claimed the two executives told their colleagues they could lose their bonuses in the event of Demoulas firing, the newspaper wrote. In turn, the CEO used his statement to criticize three of the boards four members by name and again characterized their actions as a part of an effort to forcibly gain control of the company. Steven Collins of Exeter Capital doesnt understand this companys culture. Nor do his fellow board members Jay Hachigian of Gunderson Dettmer and Michael Keyes of Intercontinental Real Estate, his statement reads. To them, Tom, after 50 years with the company, and Joe after 39 years, are easily cast aside. They are just collateral damage in this pre-planned coup. Collins, Hachigian and Keyes previously accused Demoulas of improperly trying to line up his children to succeed him, as well as not providing certain financial information or access to top executives to the board claims which Demoulas and his allies have repeatedly denied, the Globe reported. The boards fourth member has consistently voted in the CEOs favor. Absent from Demoulas rebuff was mention of his three sisters, who, according to the Globe, are fighting with their brother over control of the roughly $8 billion-a-year grocery store chain. Each sister owns 20% of Market Baskets shares, giving them majority control while they act as a unit, the newspaper reported. Another 28% of the company is owned by their brother, and the rest is owned by a trust benefitting their grandchildren. Demoulas was previously fired from his position in 2014, but returned after Market Basket employees protested his ousting for two months. The backlash from the companys workforce ultimately enabled the buying out of other Demoulas family members shares in Market Basket by the CEO and his sisters. This story was co-published with Puente News Collaborative, KTEP public radio in partnership with the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York (CUNY). Puente News Collaborative is a bilingual nonprofit newsroom, convener, and funder dedicated to high-quality, fact-based news and information from the U.S.-Mexico border. This story first appeared on palabra, the digital news site by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. As Trump revokes sanctuary protections, El Pasos bishop and allies mobilize but funding cuts and arrests threaten their mission By Adelina Romero & Rebecca Raghunath | Edited by Angela Kocherga & Alfredo Corchado EL PASO, TEXAS Seven months into President Donald Trumps second term, sweeping changes to federal immigration policy have escalated deportations, cut millions of dollars in federal funding to nonprofits providing legal aid for immigrants, and revoked protections for sensitive spaces, including churches. Here in El Paso, faith leaders and organizations that have long provided resources for migrants are raising alarms over policies they say are instilling fear and undermining humanitarian efforts. People are afraid to go out for groceries. Theyre afraid to go to church, said El Pasos Catholic Bishop Mark Seitz. I really dont believe fear adequately describes it. Its terror. The issue of immigration has morphed into mass protests in Los Angeles and multiple cities across the country against sweeping ICE raids that include work sites and other locations. At least one person was on church property when they were picked up by agents, according to reports. Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native and a descendant of Sicilian immigrants, has called for the protection of immigrants, the poor, and the most vulnerable, following the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. No one is exempt from ensuring the dignity of every person, the pontiff said. From the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed, citizens and immigrants alike. In rescinding the policy, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said, The Trump administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense. Sensitive locations For Bishop Seitz, the dioceses mission to protect the vulnerable has never been clearer as the Trump administration carries out what critics, including Seitz, have called mass deportations based on racial profiling. It was the intention of the administration so that people would leave to appeal to those who dont want anybody in this country except people that look like them, Seitz said. You have to be constantly worried. Constantly on guard. Bishop Seitzs pin says, Defending migrants cuz the Pope said so, referencing the late Pope Francis advocacy for immigrant rights. Photo by Adelina Romero/Puente News Collaborative In October of 2021, the Biden administration expanded the definition of sensitive locations to protected areas that imposed greater restrictions for ICE to enter spaces such as schools, healthcare facilities, social services establishments, disaster relief centers, and places of worship. Now, no space is off-limits. On his first day of his second term, President Trump rolled back the nonpartisan sensitive locations policy, dating back to the Clinton administration, which encouraged immigration and customs agents to use good judgment to engage in enforcement in sensitive areas. The policy reversal has sparked multiple lawsuits from faith groups across the country, including the Quakers in Maryland and in Oregon, arguing that the new policies violate the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and the First Amendment. In January, a federal judge in Maryland blocked parts of Trumps executive order. U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang ruled that the policy imposed a real and substantial burden on religious organizations that historically aid immigrants. The burden imposed by the policy is far from speculative, Chuang wrote in his opinion. It is already happening. In the border city of El Paso, one of the largest binational communities in the country, the immigration crackdown has sowed fear among many people of color, generating multiple protests. More than 80 percent of El Pasos population is Hispanic. Hundreds joined a downtown El Paso march organized by faith-based groups March 24, 2025, to protest mass deportations under the Trump administration. Photo by Aaron Montes/Puente News Collaborative A moment of hopeful resistance This spring, Bishop Seitz led a candlelight vigil through downtown El Paso to Sacred Heart Church, which served as a shelter for migrant families during a large influx of immigrants seeking asylum in 2022. He was joined by faith leaders from across the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Vatican. It was a moment of creative, hopeful resistance, said Dylan Corbett, executive director of the grassroots community organization Hope Border Institute in El Paso. The testimony of people affected by these policies has to be at the center of our response. In a militarized region, that resistance comes with growing risks, as faith-based nonprofits fear they could be swept up in a crackdown. Operation Lone Star is Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts border enforcement initiative, which included the deployment of 10,000 National Guard troops and Texas state troopers along the U.S.-Mexico border. Faith-based nonprofit organizations fear they could face consequences for providing humanitarian aid to undocumented immigrants. Weve got a target on our back now, Corbett said. They may go after us for smuggling or trafficking charges. That threat became real last June when Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton attempted to shut down Annunciation House, which provides temporary shelter to migrants in El Paso. Paxton called the Catholic organization a stash house and requested records detailing those who received services. Annunciation House pushed back, arguing that disclosing those records, which include medical files and sensitive personal information, would violate clients privacy rights and the organizations religious freedom. El Paso Bishop Mark Seitz greets Guatemalan immigrant Wilson Juarez during an immigrant solidarity vigil March 24, 2025, at Sacred Heart Church in El Paso, Texas. Photo by Aaron Montes/Puente News Collaborative In late May, the Texas Supreme Court ruled unanimously that Paxton has the authority to demand records needed to proceed with his lawsuit targeting the shelter. The court, however, did not address the merits of the case. Meanwhile, advocates say that some migrants, including asylum seekers with pending cases, are increasingly choosing to go back to their home countries rather than risk arrest. What they are returning to may be worse in terms of the actual danger to their lives, but somehow to be in a place like the United States today feels more dangerous, said Seitz. As the threat of mass deportation looms, Corbetts Hope Border Institute has pivoted to help migrants plan voluntary returns to their home countries. We helped a family get back to Venezuela safely, said Corbett. Thats where we are now, not just defending peoples right to stay, but helping them leave with dignity when they no longer feel safe here. Indigenous dancers at an interfaith migrant solidarity march led by Bishop Mark J. Seitz on March 24, 2025, in El Paso, Texas. Photo by Aaron Montes/Puente News Collaborative Legal aid in crisis Estrella del Paso, the legal aid ministry of the Catholic Diocese, holds know-your-rights workshops, which are now conducted with caution since many are afraid to attend in person. If people need to know your rights presentation remotely or they need to do a consultation remotely cause theyre scared, we can make those accommodations, said Melissa Lopez, Estrellas executive director. At a time when their services are in high demand, the nonprofit organization lost $5 million in federal funding and had to furlough nearly half its staff. We were a team of 78, Lopez added. Now, 30 of those positions are on furlough. In early May, the organization received a $25,000 emergency grant from the Border Refugee Assistance Fund, a joint initiative of Bishop Seitz and the Hope Border Institute, to help sustain workshops and pay for legal representation for asylum seekers. This grant is a lifeline not just for our organization, but for the thousands of vulnerable people we serve, said Lopez in announcing the funding. Calling this an urgent time of unprecedented demand for legal representation, Seitz said the gospel challenges the faithful to stand with the vulnerable and ensure that hope and justice remain alive at our border. I dont think Im speaking about politics. Im speaking about faith. Politicians are messing with my faith, he added. Former President Barack Obama talks with then-President-elect Donald Trump before the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. AP Former President Barack Obama issued a rare public rebuke of President Donald Trump on Tuesday, slamming his successor for spreading an outrageous theory that Obama administration officials had taken part in a conspiracy to undermine Trump after his 2016 victory. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard declassified documents earlier this week that she said showed the Obama administration had manufactured evidence to push an investigation into whether Russia attempted to boost Trump in the 2016 election. Gabbard said Obama officials undermined the legitimacy of President Trump, essentially enacting a years-long coup against him. Trump went further Tuesday, saying without evidence, This was treason. They tried to steal the election, they tried to obfuscate the election, he said in the Oval Office, according to Reuters. Patrick Rodenbush, an Obama spokesperson, said in a statement that out of respect for the office of the presidency, the former president does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one, Rodenbush said. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, he continued. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Obama has often avoided direct criticism of Trump. On Monday, an Obama spokesperson declined to comment when asked by the Washington Post about a video shared by Trump on Truth Social, the social media website he owns. The video, evidently created by artificial intelligence, depicted Obama being arrested in the Oval Office while Trump looked on and grinned. It went on to show Obama behind bars in a prison cell, with the caption no one is above the law. At first glance, the latest Boston Globe/Suffolk University poll is nothing but blue skies for Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. Consider these numbers alone: The Democratic incumbent holds a solid 59%-29% lead over her main challenger, philanthropist Josh Kraft, with just about a month to go before Septembers preliminary election. It was the third such poll to show Wu with a commanding lead. The Democratic incumbent held a 43%-29% lead in an Emerson College poll in February. And Wu led Kraft 53%-21% in an April canvass by Saint Anselm College. Voters gave Wu overwhelmingly high marks for her job performance in the new Suffolk poll, with nearly two-thirds of respondents (64.6%) saying they either strongly or somewhat approve of Wus job performance as she runs for another term in City Hall. And even if Wu isnt publicly saying anything, city voters clearly see their mayor with a national profile tipped for greater things, with 47% saying theyd vote for her if she ran for governor or U.S. Senate somewhere down the road. All those numbers are a problem for Kraft, a political newcomer whos never run for office before. The son of billionaire New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft is undoubtedly well-connected witness the deep-pocketed super PAC thats been blitzing the airwaves, your devices and Interstate 93 at rush hour, with anti-Wu attack advertisements. A panel truck, paid for by the pro-Josh Kraft super PAC 'Your City, Your Future' spreads the word during a rush hour traffic jam on Interstate 93, heading toward the Tip O'Neill Tunnel on Thursday, July 17, 2025. John L. Micek/MassLive A pro-Wu super PAC also has been spending heavily on the Democratic incumbents behalf, according to a MassLive analysis of campaign filings. The politics of it all Still, that initial batch of poll numbers is a vivid reminder that the biggest challenge facing any candidate looking to bump off a popular incumbent is that they need to provide a compelling why. Thats particularly true in a city that hasnt sent an incumbent mayor packing since 1949. And that mayor had to be the notorious James Michael Curley. Six months into his first campaign, and with the polls consistently favoring Wu, there are strong indications that Krafts message or his candidacy has yet to penetrate the voting publics consciousness. In a statement, Krafts camp shrugged off the polling, arguing that the numbers would move in his direction the more that voters get to know him. Josh didnt get into the mayors race because of what polling says, and nothing has changed his focus on continuing to show up in Boston neighborhoods, talk to residents and listen to the concerns of many people who are disappointed with this mayor and the direction the city is going, the campaign said, adding that the only numbers that count in the end are votes. That begs the question of what Kraft and his deep-pocketed allies have been doing since he jumped into the race on a cold day in February. But its also the middle of July, and voters traditionally are not the most plugged in at this time of the year. So theres that. The 3 big numbers to watch A deeper dive into the poll suggests that there is territory that can actively be contested if Kraft can effectively seize the moment and if a crack appears in Wus machine-like campaign. The first one is public education. There are few issues where voters feel as deeply passionate or are more opinionated about than their local schools. A clear majority of respondents (56%) gave a thumbs-down to the Boston Public Schools, compared to the 29% of those polled who rated them as excellent or good. Just 11% were undecided. Krafts education platform calls for opening up more seats in the citys competitive exam schools, a switch to a hybrid-elected and appointed school committee, and bringing back a parents office in City Hall. More than half of the respondents to the Suffolk poll (51.8%) said they favored that hybrid school committee model. And city voters overwhelmingly supported an elected panel in 2021. Then theres housing, perhaps the most vexing and pressing public policy challenge facing elected officials from Beacon Hill on down. More than a quarter of respondent (26%) said housing was their top issue this campaign season. Respondents said, 52% to 45%, that they find the city mostly affordable. Even still, two-thirds of respondents said they favored some kind of rent control, while 28% apiece said the city should ease zoning rules and use public money to encourage housing construction. Wu and Kraft butted heads last week over the high price of housing in the city during a candidates forum hosted by the Massachusetts Affordable Homeownership Alliance, MassLive previously reported. The two candidates shared their respective visions and plans to reduce housing costs. Both candidates agreed that housing is too expensive in the city, but they disagreed on the most effective ways to tackle the problem. With ICE agents in the streets, the broader nationwide debate over immigration also remains an area of deep voter interest. Wu staked out her ground early on, making nationwide headlines in March with an impassioned defense of the citys policies before a U.S. House panel. Nearly 8 in 10 respondents said they support the citys decade-old Trust Act, which limits law enforcements cooperation with federal immigration authorities. And more than two-thirds of respondents (66%) said the citys police force generally do a good job and treat people of different races fairly, even if there are a few bad apples in the ranks. The two candidates have staked out similar ground, with Kraft saying he was onside with Wus approach. And thats made it harder for him to differentiate himself on a key issue. The fact that, in a high-stakes environment, Michelle Wu stood up for Boston and stood up to Trump-supporting members of Congress and did well is a huge advantage for her, Democratic consultant Mary Anne Marsh told MassLive earlier this year. The lightning round A batch of smaller questions in the poll also shines a pretty significant light on city voters mood this campaign season. And they all go back to that key argument for any challenger looking to unseat an incumbent: A compelling why. More than half of all respondents (52%) said they disagreed with the contention that Wu speaks well, but is not a good manager of day-to-day city services. And 60% said they agreed that while Wu has had her challenges, Kraft was not the answer. And while the citys business communitys disenchantment with Wu is well documented, voters arent buying the arguments of a constituency they believe mostly lives outside the city limits: Nearly six in 10 (59%) said they didnt think Wu was hostile to the business community. The polls open at 7 a.m. on Sept. 9 for this years preliminary election. The meter is running for Kraft to make those closing arguments. Red Sox rookie Roman Anthony has struck out eight times in the last two games. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire via Getty Images PHILADELPHIA On Monday, the Red Sox went to extra innings against the Phillies despite being mowed down by ace Zack Wheeler and striking out a total of 16 times. Tuesday represented a different story. Boston could get nothing going against breakout star Cristopher Sanchez, who recorded 12 strikeouts in a complete game as Philadelphia won, 4-1. Sanchez allowed just four hits including two infield singles and the only Boston runner to get past third base was Rob Refsnyder, who homered to lead off the fourth. Oof, said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. Electric. Hes one of the best pitchers in the big leagues. His fastball is unique. His changeup is, too. Today, he was on point. The command, the extension, the movement, the changeup. That was one of the best Ive seen in a while. The Red Sox, who bludgeoned the pitching staffs of lowly teams like Washington and Colorado to put a 10-game winning streak before the All-Star break, have quickly cooled at the plate to start the second half. In five games against the Cubs and Phillies, the Sox have scored just 10 runs, with six coming late in Sundays win. In the four losses, Boston has scored a total of four times. BETTING: The over/under for Wednesdays Red Sox versus the Phillies is set at 8.5 on The over/under for Wednesdays Red Sox versus the Phillies is set at 8.5 on BetMGM . Our comprehensive list of the best Massachusetts sportsbook promos will help you pick a sportsbook to use. That solid starters like Chicagos Colin Rea and Shota Imanaga and Philadelphias Zack Wheeler and Sanchez have pitched those games is no coincidence. Its part of the schedule, Cora said. Weve got to show up tomorrow and win a game. Red Sox hitters have struck out 28 times over 19 innings in the two losses at Philadelphia. On Tuesday, Sanchez used a three-pitch mix to generate 19 swings-and-misses, including 14 on his changeup. He was commanding the sinker and the changeup really good, said catcher Carlos Narvaez, who was 0-for-3 with a strikeout. Mixing the slider a little bit. The changeup was nasty. I faced him last year. I kinda knew what was my approach but the changeup was really good today. Rookie Roman Anthony had been surging before arriving at Citizens Bank Park, hitting .338 with a homer, eight doubles and a .901 OPS in his previous 21 games (88 plate appearances). But against top-line pitching, he has struggled mightily, going 1-for-9 with eight strikeouts in Philadelphia. Sanchez got him four times Tuesday. Good pitching, execution, said Cora. Hell be OK. The task for the Red Sox doesnt get much easier Wednesday with talented lefty Jesus Luzardo on the hill for the Phillies. Boston can only hope hes not as dialed in as Sanchez. Thats the reason they (the Phillies) are good, Cora said. If we want to play in October, we have to find a way to hit those guys. Yesterday, we battled, did a good job against Wheeler. We had our chances. Tonight, I think he was outstanding. Youve got to tip your hat. Ashley Spring speaking out at a protest against ICE and WPD outside of Worcester City Hall. Adam Bass A disqualified Worcester School Committee candidate who sprayed water from a baby bottle on a Worcester police officer during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation on May 8 will no longer face charges of using a dangerous weapon. Worcester Police Officers arrested Ashley R. Spring on Eureka Street on May 8, the same day U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested a 40-year-old Brazilian mother of three at the same location. By Mata Press Service Four journalists from across the Indo-Pacific will soon be travelling to Canada under a new initiative by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) aimed at strengthening global reporting on Canadas role in the region. The inaugural Indo-Pacific Media Fellowship program, backed by the Government of Canada, offers selected reporters up to C$10,000 each to conduct fieldwork in the country. Over the next year, the fellows will develop a series of original stories focused on key sectors like innovation, education, clean energy, and trade. The fellows, chosen through a competitive application process, will each spend up to three weeks in Canada researching their stories. APF Canadas 202526 Indo-Pacific Media Fellows are: Undral Amarsaikhan from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, plans to create a three-part multimedia series titled Lessons from Canada, exploring how Canadas innovation ecosystem, climate resilience strategies, and education models can inform and inspire Mongolia and other Indo-Pacific countries. She is exploring field research opportunities in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Trang Bui from Hanoi, Vietnam, plans to produce a three-part series with data visualizations that explore the impact of Canadian firms looking to Vietnam to decouple from the U.S. on industries, supply chains, and consumers in Vietnam, with a focus on the interconnected solar panel industry and Canadian beef and pork. She is exploring field research opportunities in Ontario and Alberta. Kiran Jacob from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, plans to produce three in-depth stories exploring how Canadas Indo-Pacific Strategy is building economic bridges with Asia with a focus on building sovereign artificial intelligence compatibilities, synergies in hydrogen and clean energy transitions, and how small and medium enterprises can better grow, scale, and access each others markets. He is exploring field research opportunities in Ontario and British Columbia. Yogi Tujuliarto from Jakarta, Indonesia, plans to create three feature television reports and a longform article exploring how Canadas clean energy sector creates and supports green jobs, and to explore lessons, challenges, and innovations in hydro, wind, and solar initiatives in Canada that can inform Indonesias transition strategies as it seeks to reach net-zero by 2060. He is exploring field research opportunities in Ontario and British Columbia. 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The biennial event has seen the past two years flow by so quickly. While the world has all changed, changed utterly, Covie Week will provide a little dusting of beauty. Good companionship is guaranteed. All events are free and everyone is welcome. A poetry book launch is the opening night feature with the aptly titled Basket of Gems by Mary C Reilly. Fellow poet Susan Kelly (The Octagon) will do the launching honours on Marys fourth book with music from Michael Halloran and Aisling Smyth. The venue is Matt Molloys Yard Bar at 7pm. Former Mayo News proprietor, the late Joe Berry, will be honoured on Friday, July 25 on the South Mall where Toby Gibbons and his Westport Trout Anglers colleagues host a Junior Fishing Competition and Demonstration. All are meeting outside the Garda Station at 4pm. Fishing gear will be provided for the youngsters. Adults can take a Garland Friday amble up the Reek! Later on Friday evening at 7pm the Clew Bay Heritage Centre at the Quay hosts an Open Night for all. Artefacts, implements and historical records may be viewed and examined. The current Westport Historical Society annual Cathair na Mart Journal will also be launched. Departed and much lamented Covies will be remembered at Mass in St Marys Church at 10am on Saturday, July 26. Later, the Library will host a Westport People and Places photographic exhibition at 2pm. Pictures include Westport Rugby Club (100 years old) and St Patricks Drama Group (60 years old). Sunday Reek Sunday attention is turned to the graveyard in the grounds of Westport House (behind Hotel Westport with entrance via Church Street). Remembrance Hour has been a graveyard feature of Covie Week. The ancient headstones of the Demesne graveyard list members of the Browne family and the famous Captain William Houstoun. Hear his story and the stories of those laid to rest in the grounds of the original Church of Ireland, now in ruins. READ MORE: Mayo youth group hit out at council neglect Joe McNally (1925-2019), who taught swimming and water safety lessons to hundreds of Covies, will be remembered on Monday, July 28, at 7pm at The Point with a Swim For Joe. All are invited to take a thanksgiving dip on the centenary of Joes birth. Later that Monday evening at 8.30pm, Charlie Keating will host The Friends of Olcan, an evening of music, song and story in Matt Molloys in honour of Olcan Masterson, renowned musician, composer and folklorist, who passed away last year. Tuesday, July 29, sees Genie Keating, Ollie Whyte, Tanya Whyte and Eddie Browne to the fore with a presentation of old Westport photos in the Town Hall. It starts at 5pm, please note the time! It promises to be an interesting trip down memory lane that will pull on the heartstrings as well as challenge our recall abilities! It will be a really exciting night with a special closing treat of a ten-minute clip of be there! A free walking tour of Westport town is on Wednesday morning, starting from The Clock at 11am (and every Wednesday during the summer). It is hosted by members of Westport Historical Society and will provide interesting facts and figures about the town we love so well. On Wednesday at 8pm in the Town Hall (upstairs), James Kelly will enlighten all about plans for Westport Courthouse, which is currently under the stewardship of Westport Historical Society. The town centre building will be a great asset for locals and visitors alike. James will outline what facilities are available and all the background work that needs to be done before any member of the public can even cross the threshold! Proceedings end on Thursday, July 31 from 3pm in Blousers Pub, James Street with Tea, Cakes & Poetry. Tom OGrady will host the event (quietly, as is his wont!). He is not expected to break into verse, just be his usual cheerful self, ensuring the kettle is on the boil for those who take the event title literally! Yellow Tops from the angels in Currys Cottage will also feature to the sound of Paddy Guthrie, Brendan McKeown and others enjoy the week. A local Mayo family are hoping to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society in honour of their mother. On Wednesday, July 31, 2020, Geraldine Brett passed away following a brave battle with lung cancer. READ MORE: Mayo based barman cleared of manslaughter of 60-year-old man Geraldine was loved and cherished by all who knew her, and in particular her family circle. In the days leading up to her passing, the night nurses from the Irish Cancer Society were on hand to assist the family, and Geraldine in her time of utmost need. The professional manner with which the nursing team treated both Geraldine struck a chord for her children, as they went about their work to bring dignity, peace, and comfort to her. "Their presence allowed us to spend precious time with Mum at home, surrounded by love," said her daughter, Ashlea Diamond. Now, five years on, the family are trying to give back to the organisation who provided a helping hand. On Saturday, August 2, at 11am, Aughagower Community Centre will host a coffee morning, with all funds going to the Irish Cancer Society. On the day, there will also be a raffle, as well as a chance to have a chat and remember the life of Geraldine. All funds from the coffee morning will go directly to the Irish Cancer Society. The family have set an ambitious target of raising 2,000 for the cause. However, with ten days to go until the event, they have already surpassed the 60 per cent mark, having amassed 1,252 at the time of writing. Those interested in donating can do so by clicking here. Tourists were stunned to witness polar bears eat a dead whale in the Arctic on July 11. Source: Facebook/Quark Expeditions Surrounded by a frozen and unforgiving landscape, tourists recently watched on as two polar bears picked apart the carcass of a dead whale floating among icebergs in the frigid Arctic. Stunning images of the "unforgettable moment" were captured from the passenger vessel, with a marine biologist on board telling Yahoo News Australia it was "the best sighting of this kind" in the 18 years he's worked as a guide. "Our guests got to witness two bears near a dead whale floating amongst the ice," marine biologist Mikolaj Golachowski explained. "It was a foggy day, so everything kept coming in and out of view. But then it cleared and we saw a bear (most likely a female) walking close to the ship, heading towards the carcass, then spending about an hour on top of it, feeding. ADVERTISEMENT "After that, she left to disappear into the returning fog... It does happen, but in my 18 years of working as a guide in the Arctic, this was the third and by far the best sighting of this kind. Reasonably close and long. "That was amazing!" he said. Marine biologist Mikolaj Golachowski said the scene was 'amazing'. Source: Facebook/Quark Expeditions The moment on July 11 was cherished for how special it was, and it's scenes like this that are seeing more travellers keen to throw some warm clothing into a suitcase and jet off to the ends of the Earth. As a result, Polar tourism is booming as more and more visitors flock to the once out-of-reach environment. But the trend has raised concerns about the potential costs to the environment. "Interest in travelling to the Arctic has grown year on year over the last few years," a spokesperson for Quark Expeditions, a tour company specialising in Arctic and Antarctic travel, told Yahoo News. ADVERTISEMENT While the company focuses primarily on tourism around the North Pole, between 14-16 per cent of people exploring Antarctica with the company are Australians, it said. Tourists flock to polar regions as 'sustainability' is questioned Both the Arctic and Antarctica are experiencing booms in tourism, and scientists are urging authorities to focus on sustainability as demand skyrockets. Antarctica While tourism to Antarctica remains exclusive and very expensive, it has slowly started to grow in popularity. Visitors have increased more than tenfold in the last 30 years, according to data from the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. ADVERTISEMENT Unchecked tourism growth in the southern polar region is cause for concern, scientists say. Approximately two-thirds of Antarctic tourists land on the continent, threatening fragile ecosystems there by compacting soils, trampling vegetation, introducing non-native microbes and disturbing breeding colonies of birds and seals. Darla Hatton MacDonald and Elizabeth Leane, both professors at the University of Tasmania, explained the polar region is already under increased pressure due to climate change, and tourism will only exacerbate the issue, tipping the delicate ecosystems into decline. Tourism in the Arctic and Antarctica continues to boom. Source: Facebook/Quark Expeditions The Arctic In June, United Airlines commenced direct flights from the US to Greenland to accommodate the growing interest in polar explorations. The 2,200-metre runway recently built at Nuuk airport also expands options for tourists eager to travel to the country, without the commitment of flying first to Denmark or Iceland and changing at a remote airport in Kangerlussuaq. ADVERTISEMENT However, cruise ships remain the most popular mode of transport, with tourists heading for the Arctic via Norway. More than 1.5 million cruise passengers visit Norwegian ports every year, according to the Norwegian Coastal Administration. Elina Hutton, Arctic tourism researcher, said the influx of tourism is damaging sensitive polar ecosystems. She believes Arctic governments need to put tighter controls on cruise ships to restrict the number of visits, throwing into question whether tourism should be embraced, Reuters reports. "Do we need to be able to travel everywhere? Do we need to be able to fly to Antarctica and cruise to the North Pole? I know it would be fun but is it something that we need to be able to do?" she said. "It can't be sustainable." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. When I tested the Galaxy Z Fold 6 last year, I came away feeling a little underwhelmed. It wasnt a bad phone by any means, but it just felt like another safe, incremental update. This year, though, the Galaxy Z Fold7 has completely changed my mind. It finally feels like a proper flagship one that just happens to fold. Its slimmer, lighter, more polished, and easily Samsungs best effort yet. Yes, the 1,74,999 price is steep, but if youre willing to splurge, the experience is unlike anything else. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Design & Build Samsung The Galaxy Z Fold7 is hands down Samsungs sleekest and lightest foldable so far. The second I picked it up, it just felt different in a good way. When folded, its 8.9mm thick, and when you open it up, it thins down to just 4.2mm. At 215g, its actually lighter than the Vivo X Fold5, Honor Magic V5, and even Samsungs own Galaxy S25 Ultra. For something that unfolds into a full-on tablet, thats seriously impressive. Samsungs also tweaked the hinge this year. Its smoother and more rounded, and while theres a bit of resistance when opening it, it feels intentional probably to keep things sturdy over time. That said, the slimmer body makes it a little harder to wedge your finger in and open it up. I noticed this especially after using the slightly chunkier Vivo X Fold5, which was way easier to unfold. The new design has sharper corners and a more prominent camera bump, which makes the phone wobble a fair bit when its lying flat. Another change is the removal of S Pen support, which might be a bummer for some power users. Personally, I didnt really miss it, but if youre someone who uses the stylus a lot, this might sting. Samsung That aside, its clear Samsung put a lot of love into this one. The Fold7 is built with tougher Advanced Armor Aluminum around the frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the back, and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 on the front a noticeable upgrade. Its also got an IP48 rating, meaning it can handle a bit of dust and even a quick dip in water. The matte finish on the rear does a decent job at keeping fingerprints away, and the colours this year are super clean Blue Shadow, Jet Black, and Silver Shadow. I tried out the Blue one, and it hits that sweet spot between subtle and stylish. As for buttons and ports, everythings where it should be. The power button on the side doubles up as a fast, reliable fingerprint scanner, and you can also use it to trigger Gemini. Up top, youve got the speaker grille, mics, and SIM tray, while the bottom houses another speaker, more mics, and the USB-C port. Everything just feels tight and well put together exactly what youd expect from a premium foldable like this. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Cover & Inner Displays Samsung For the longest time, I felt like Samsungs foldables absolutely nailed the inner screen but kind of treated the outer one like an afterthought. On the Z Fold 6 and earlier models, the cover display always felt too narrow, too cramped just not something I enjoyed using. But with the Galaxy Z Fold7, that finally changes, and honestly, its a huge relief. This time around, the outer screen actually feels usable. Its a 6.5-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a way more practical 21:9 aspect ratio, and the difference is instantly noticeable. Typing no longer feels like a finger gymnastics session, and everything just feels more natural. Youre still getting the good stuff too 2,520 x 1,080 resolution, LTPO-powered 1120Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 2,600 nits. Even when I stepped out into blazing sunlight, the screen held its own. For the first time, I didnt feel like I had to open the phone every time I wanted to do something. Whether it was firing off a quick reply, checking directions, or doomscrolling through Instagram, the cover screen handled it all just fine. That said, I still found myself flipping it open more often than not because when you know theres a gorgeous 8-inch display waiting inside, its hard to resist. And speaking of that inner display its just as impressive, if not more so. Its a big 8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a resolution of 2,184 x 1,968, an adaptive 1120Hz refresh rate, and that same crazy 2,600 nits of peak brightness. There are a couple of changes this year though. First, Samsung has ditched the under-display selfie camera and gone back to a punch-hole cutout on the right panel. It does break up the all-screen look a bit, but honestly, I stopped noticing it after a while. The second and way more exciting change is the crease. Or rather, the near-disappearance of it. You can still spot it when the screens off, but while using the phone, it barely shows up and feels almost completely smooth when scrolling. That alone makes the whole experience feel so much more polished. Put together, both screens finally feel like they belong on the same premium device. Theres no more compromise just a seamless, gorgeous dual-display experience. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Performance and Battery Life Samsung The Galaxy Z Fold7 delivers the kind of performance youd expect from a top-tier flagship. Its powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip, backed by either 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and comes with up to 1TB of super-fast UFS 4.0 storage. In day-to-day use, the phone felt incredibly smooth. I could jump between dozens of Chrome tabs, messaging apps, and even games without any slowdowns or crashes. Even during more demanding tasks, like extended Genshin Impact sessions, the Fold7 stayed surprisingly cool. There was a bit of warmth, sure, but no noticeable throttling or dips in performance. Its one of the most stable Snapdragon 8 Elite phones Ive used so far. That said, power like this also demands strong battery backup and this is where Samsung could have done more. The Fold7 sticks with the same 4,400mAh battery as last years model. In my testing, a three-hour YouTube stream over Wi-Fi at full brightness on the main display drained the battery to 82 percent a slight improvement over the Fold 6s 78 percent in the same test, likely due to better efficiency from the new chip. Still, with rivals like Vivo packing 6,000mAh batteries into their foldables, Samsung needs to step up here. Charging is no better really. The Fold7 supports 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, which feels a bit behind the times for a 2025 flagship. You can hit 50 percent in about 30 minutes with the right charger, but as usual, Samsung doesnt include one in the box. The phone does support Qi2 wireless charging, but without built-in magnets, you wont get the satisfying snap-on accessory experience youd find with MagSafe-style solutions. Overall, performance is excellent, but the battery and charging story still leaves a bit to be desired. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Software & AI Samsung The Galaxy Z Fold7 ships with Samsungs new One UI 8 layered on top of Android 16, and it comes with a massive promise: seven years of OS and security updates. Thats right up there with Google's Pixel series with the best long-term software support youll find on any phone today. One UI 8 focuses on polishing the experience, especially across Samsungs core apps. The Calendar app now separates Events and Reminders into different tabs, making things easier to manage. My Files has a cleaner Categories section with refreshed icons, while the Reminders app gets a visual revamp. Even the Gallery adds a Private Album for sensitive photos, plus subtle UI tweaks that feel more refined. Of course, the Fold7 continues to embrace everything that makes foldables special. Flex Mode turns the device into a mini laptop for hands-free use. DeX mode still transforms the phone into a desktop-like setup when plugged into a larger screen. The Edge Panel and dock let you quickly jump between apps or launch your favourite app pairs. Multitasking is smooth you can run three apps side-by-side, with a fourth floating as a pop-up. AI features get a serious boost this year. Gemini Lives new real-time visual search can analyse whatevers in front of your camera or on your screen. Whether youre trying on outfits, shopping, or navigating apps, Gemini can break things down and help you take action. Circle to Search also gets smarter, letting you pull up tips or background info during gameplay without having to exit the app. Another cool upgrade is the new Side-by-Side comparison tool in generative editing. It lets you edit images while keeping the original visible, so you can compare changes in real time. Its simple, handy, and makes photo editing feel a lot more intuitive. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Camera Performance Samsung The Galaxy Z Fold7 brings some serious upgrades to its camera game, and this time, its not just about folding screens. The rear setup now includes a massive 200MP main sensor, the same one used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. And yep, it shows. Daytime shots come out sharp, colourful, and punchy, though Samsung still leans a bit on the sharpening. By default, youll get 12MP binned images, but if you want all the pixels, the full 200MP mode is just a tap away. Low-light shots were surprisingly solid too. I found the night images stayed sharp, with well-balanced exposure and white balance that didnt swing too warm or cold. The 3x telephoto lens may not have changed much on paper, but in practice, I noticed better clarity and sharpnessup until you zoom beyond 3x, where it starts to lose detail. Portraits look great, especially when using the telephoto lens. The edge detection is on point, and the blur feels natural, not artificial. The 12MP ultrawide finally supports autofocus now, which lets you take decent macro shots, though it still struggles with edge distortion in wider landscape shots. Samsung Up front, both the cover and inner displays feature 10MP selfie cameras. The inner one ditches the old under-display trick and switches to a regular punch-hole this year, which results in much clearer and sharper selfies. Video recording is the best Ive seen on any foldable. Footage looks crisp and vibrant, especially when played back on the Z Fold7s gorgeous displays. Samsungs new ProVisual Engine adds always-on 10-bit HDR+ support, which boosts colour, contrast, and focus tracking. You can go all the way up to 8K at 30fps, but I stuck with 4K 60fps for smoother, more usable footage. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Review: Verdict Samsung The Galaxy Z Fold7 is the first foldable that genuinely feels complete to me. Its slimmer, lighter, and finally hits that sweet spot between cool tech and everyday practicality. The wider cover screen actually feels usable now, and I found myself loving the big inner display for watching movies or running multiple apps. The cameras dont feel like an afterthought either, which is a win. Sure, its still super expensive, and some will miss the S Pen. Battery life and charging could also be better. But overall, this feels like the Fold Ive been waiting for. Pros of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7: OPPO seems to have put a lot of effort into conceptualising the OPPO Reno 14. I guess the focus was to offer a well-rounded device that genuinely looks and feels smart. Let me share more about this smartphone, so you can assess if it fits the bill for you. OPPO Reno 14 Review: First Impressions & Design OPPO The OPPO Reno 14 exudes a premium vibe. After all, it uses premium aerospace aluminium to ensure a solid and high-quality feel. The back panel of the device has a velvet glass or matte finish, which I liked. I remember testing OPPOs limited edition Manish Malhotra phone and realising that OPPO puts in a lot of effort to design a premium and sturdy back panel. Even though this phone comes with a 6000mAh battery, it still feels light and comfortable to hold. Be it IP66, IP68, or even IP69 ratings, this one has it all, so you dont need to think twice before using it in the rain or taking it to the beach. OPPO Reno 14 Review: The Display OPPO While the Reno 14 Pro has a bigger display, I find the display size of 6.57-inch just perfect. Im anyway a fan of small displays, so this one is perfect for users like me who are looking for a smaller display. The 1.5K AMOLED panel supports a 120Hz refresh rate. You also have HDR+ support with 3840Hz PWM dimming for all your binge-watching on Netflix without worrying too much about your eyes. Though I suggest you opt for a larger screen like a TV for binge-watching, this one will do a good job in case you need to catch up with your favourite show while travelling. OPPO Reno 14 Review: Performance OPPO I was a bit sceptical as this one has MediaTek Dimensity 8350, unlike the Dimensity 8450, which powers the Pro version. The experience is buttery smooth for my daily tasks, social media browsing, gaming, and app usage in general. However, gaming is where the OPPO Reno 14 surprised me for real, where I did feel some thermal throttling and heating after an hour of gameplay. It reminded me of my time with the OnePlus 13 when I had a great time playing games on a smartphone for long durations. However, my gaming session did not include all kinds of games. For hardcore games like Genshin Impact sessions over an hour, it heated up after 30 minutes of play time. Theres UFS 3.1 storage, which is pretty standard across phones with the same price tag. OPPO Reno 14 Review: Camera Performance OPPO This is where the OPPO Reno 14 shines as the main camera setup offers a 50MP main camera with OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation) and a 50MP 3.5x optical periscope telephoto lens with OIS. The results are quite remarkable, as its able to capture details along with premium-looking portraits and zoomed shots. The low-light shots are also impressive, as I could get good clarity. The zooming capabilities are another highlight, where I could digitally zoom up to 120x with impressive clarity. Though there are slight colour shifts compared to the main sensor, the OPPO Reno 14 still manages to produce good photos. OPPO The selfies taken from a 50MP selfie camera are among the best I have seen particularly in the way it highlights natural skin tones and offers excellent dynamic range. Low-light results are no different, so it's a big step up from previous Reno phones for sure. I could record 4K videos at 60fps from the rear camera setup as well as the selfie camera, and the results were impressive. The video stabilisation is a big highlight for me, where the stability was the best among other phones in this price range. You can even do underwater photography with physical keys. There are plenty of practical AI tools to enhance your photography. AI Recompose, AI Perfect Shot, AI Eraser, Reflection Remover, AI Unblur all of them give great results. OPPO Reno 14 Review: Battery Life & Charging OPPO Having a 6000mAh battery is a game-changer. I was getting 1.5 to 2 days of normal use, with 8-12 hours of screen-on time. I could charge the phone from 0 to 100% in around 47 minutes. However, unlike the Pro version, theres no wireless charging. OPPO Reno 14 Review: Additional Features OPPO The software experience is fluid and feels optimised. It has all the usual AI features to summarise or translate your calls and articles, along with other features, and they work efficiently. The dual speakers are loud and clear. Haptic feedback is good as well, and the IR Blaster works seamlessly across home appliances like AC, TV, etc. Unfortunately, it has many pre-installed apps to ruin your premium experience and I despise such tactics in a phone that cost more than INR 35K. OPPO Reno 14 Review: Verdict An Air Force command is temporarily barring the use of issued Sig Sauer sidearms amid an investigation into the death of an airman at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming over the weekend. The active-duty Security Forces airman, assigned to the base's 90th Security Forces Squadron, "died on base while on duty" in the early morning hours Sunday, a news release from the base said. While the identity of the service member has not yet been made public, nor has the circumstances of their death, Air Force Global Strike Command, or AFGSC, issued an immediate order pausing the use of 9mm Sig Sauer M18 handguns as a result of the incident. "Air Force Global Strike Command has paused use of the M18 Modular Handgun System, effective July 21, 2025, until further notice," Charles Hoffman, an AFGSC spokesperson, told Military.com. "This decision was made following a tragic incident at F.E. Warren AFB, WY, on July 20, 2025, which resulted in the death of a Security Forces airman." Read Next: Army Eyeing Replacement for M240B Machine Gun The Sig Sauer M18 is part of the firearm manufacturer's P320 series, which has faced legal scrutiny after reported allegations of unintentional discharges among civilians, law enforcement and within the military. Air Force Global Strike Command is now doing a full inspection of the handguns. "Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC Safety office," Hoffman added. A July 21 memo issued by Gen. Thomas Bussiere, head of Air Force Global Strike Command, that leaked online, and was confirmed as authentic and accurate by AFGSC, called for the M4 carbine rifle to be used as a replacement in the wake of the investigation. New Hampshire Public Radio obtained nine incident reports of unintended discharges of Sig Sauer M17s and M18s -- two military variants of the handgun -- according to an in-depth investigation published last year. An August 2024 FBI report requested by the Michigan State Police, and recently made public, examined an incident in which an officer's M18 "fired uncommanded" while it was holstered. It detailed that, while the weapon in question "did not independently provide evidence of an uncommanded discharge, it does indicate that it may be possible" under certain conditions. Sig Sauer, in a scathing news release in March responding to the ongoing lawsuits and media reports regarding the discharges, fought back against the allegations. "The P320 CANNOT, under any circumstances, discharge without a trigger pull -- that is a fact," the news release detailed. "The allegations against the P320 are nothing more than individuals seeking to profit or avoid personal responsibility." Sig Sauer did not respond to a Military.com email seeking comment by publication time. "While the investigations are underway, AFGSC is collaborating with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to conduct a thorough review of the M18 and develop appropriate corrective measures," Hoffman said. "Furthermore, Security Forces combat arms airmen at all AFGSC bases will conduct 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety concerns." Related: The Army's New 9mm Handgun is Finally Approved for Full Material Release Fort Carson announced Tuesday Gate 19 will temporarily close Aug. 1 about two years after an $11 million Colorado Department of Transportation project to pave the road to the gate. The base made the decision in part because the overall number of soldiers on base is down with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team deployed to the Southern border while the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade is scheduled to deploy to the Middle East, said Dee McNutt, a spokeswoman for Fort Carson. The aviation brigade members are some of the main users of the gate because it provides closer access to the Butts Army Airfield. "We will continuously reevaluate. This was a decision today based on current conditions and manpower," McNutt said. She expects the investment in the road will be valuable into the future. Base staff made the changes after examining traffic and resource data, and speaking with experts, a news release said. Fort Carson's Museum Slated for Potential Closure The 4th Infantry Division Museum outside Fort Carson's gate 1 is slated for closure as the Army Museum Enterprise shutters museums nationally. El Paso County paved Charter Oak Ranch Road in 2022 and fully finished the road that leads to Gate 19 in 2023. It included drainage infrastructure, settling ponds, and a retaining wall. The road had crumbling pavement, poor drainage, a steep grade and narrow lanes. Opening Gate 19 was meant to ease congestion at Fort Carson's Gate 20, The Gazette previously reported. The investment in Charter Oak Ranch Road is part of a package of four projects known as the Military Access Mobility and Safety Improvements. The final project focused on widening South Academy Boulevard is still going on. The package of projects was funded through a federal grant, Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority, El Paso County and CDOT. Some Pikes Peak regional road projects wrap up; construction along I-25 scheduled through 2024 Road crews will be clearing off Colorado 94 and the road to Fort Carson Gate 19 as construction wraps up, while more concrete barriers and orange cones are in store for Interstate 25 south of Academy Boulevard through 2024. In addition to closing Gate 19, the base is changing operations at Gates 5 and 6. Gate 5 near Titus Boulevard and Colorado 115 will be open 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. seven days a week. Gate 6 on Wilderness Road east of Colorado 115 will be open 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Gate 19 near Charter Oak Ranch Road will be closed until further notice. During closure times, community members can use Gates 1, 3, 4 and 20. "We understand this change may cause inconvenience throughout the installation. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we manage all available resources," said Col. Erik Oksenvaag, Fort Carson garrison commander. This story has been updated to state the closure of Gate 19 is temporary and El Paso County paved Charter Oak Ranch Road. Fort Carson to swap tanks for more Strykers with planned departure of 3rd Armored Brigade In two or three years, Fort Carson is expected to swap its 3rd Armored Brigade for a stryker brigade at Fort Hood. The Texas-based fort will welcome 3rd Armored Brigade to its roster of heavy brigades. The move will change Fort Carson's identity, making it the largest home of strykers in the country. 2025 The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.). Visit www.gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Military Family GI Promise Act seeks to expand educational opportunities to the dependents of veterans, particularly children born or adopted later in their military careers. Both veterans, Rep. Cory Mills, R-Florida, and Rep. Eugene Vindman, D-7th, introduced the bipartisan measure last week in the U.S. House. The bill seeks to fix a reported outdated Department of Defense policy that prevents service members from transferring their earned Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to their children, according to a release. The Post-9/11 GI Bill helps veterans and their dependents pay for college, graduate school and training programs. The Military Family GI Bill Promise Act would allow eligible service members and veterans to transfer their GI Bill benefits to dependents at any time and remove the requirement for additional obligated service once transfer eligibility has been met, the release stated. Under current law, service members can only transfer GI Bill benefits while on active duty and must commit to four additional years of service after reaching six years in uniform. Transfers must also be made only to dependents already registered in the reporting system, excluding children born or adopted after separation or 10 years of service, unless the member reenlists. The bill maintains all current retention incentives including the provision that members complete six years of service before eligible to transfer benefits. Seventh District constituents spoke in favor of the measure, in comments provided through the local congressman's office. Chris from Spotsylvania County stated, "After serving for 11 years, earning the GI Bill benefit, and waiting to start a family until after leaving active duty, I was shocked to discover I had lost the ability to transfer my benefits to my children. The policy is completely unfair and penalizes single service members, who in many cases aren't in a position to even think about starting a family." Isaac from Spotsylvania County stated he and his wife made a conscious decision to not have children while he was on active duty. "My heart and mind at that time was with giving 100% to my country. I retired from active duty in 2013 and used my Post 9/11 GI Bill for graduate school. In 2016, we had an amazing daughter. I hope to transfer the remaining education benefit to her and supplement her VA 529. This bill would help me worry less about needing to work well into my 60's to provide an education for her." Liz from Prince William County said the Post 9/11 GI Bill funded her education and transformed her future. "Because of this legislation, I earned a Master of Science degree in Psychology with dual specialization, equipping me to serve my community in ways that once felt out of reach. This is proof that investing in veterans isn't charity--it's nation-building." Under current law, if a service member earns the ability to transfer GI bill benefits, but retires or is honorably discharged before they start a family, they lose the ability to transfer those benefits, according to Vindman. "That is just plain wrong. This bill is a commonsense fix to an unfair policy and upholds the promise we made to those who serve," he said. The Republican from Florida said he was proud to co-sponsor the legislation that protects earned benefits. "I firmly believe that these heroes deserve the flexibility to transfer their hard-earned Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to their dependents, regardless of when those dependents are added to their family," said Rep. Mills. "This commonsense legislation removes unnecessary barriers and ensures that our military families are not penalized for growing later in their careers. By preserving the current retention incentives while allowing transfers at any time, we are keeping our promise to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation," Mills said. According to Vindman's office, Mills is a staunch conservative but recognized the good the GI Bill expansion will do. Supporters hope to see more folks sign on in short order once the measure is pushed following the August recess, according to a spokesperson. House Passes Defense Appropriations bill; Vindman Votes No According to the National Republican Congressional Committee, Vindman is a radical Democrat who voted against the DOD Appropriations Act last week they said would strengthen national security, support the troops and combat fentanyl. The funding passed by House Republicans includes $500 million for Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs, $122.5 million for U.S.-Israel joint development programs and a 3.8% pay raise for military families starting Jan. 1, 2026, according to the committee. "While Republicans are delivering results for our servicemembers and families, out of touch Democrat Eugene Vindman continues putting partisan politics over national defense. Virginians deserve leaders who will defend our country, not cave to the radical left," said NRCC Spokeswoman Maureen O'Toole. Congressional Democrats on the Appropriations Committee in a July 18 statement called it the "Republicans' dangerous 2026 Defense funding bill," saying the measure "undermines democracy at home and abroad and includes harmful policy riders that divide our nation." According to Dems, the funding will weaken Ukraine, promote disinformation and limit abortion access. Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Betty McCollum (D-MN) said the bill "contains several poison pill provisions that undermine our military's readiness, including a policy rider that would make it difficult for service women and families to receive reproductive healthcare. It contains provisions that disenfranchise lesbian, gay, and transgender service members. These provisions will not go unnoticed by our service members, and I fear they will harm recruitment and retention should they become law," she said. In a statement Sunday, Vindman addressed his defense appropriations no vote saying as a congressman his greatest responsibility is ensuring the safety of the nation. He said the Republican spending bill eliminates 45,000 Department of Defense employees and defunds counterterrorism efforts. "I'll continue to fight extreme partisan efforts, like this bill, that put politics and partisanship over common sense policies," said Vindman. The military veteran and freshman congressman born in Soviet Ukraine said the spending bill would "abandon our own national security interests by excluding $300 million in security assistance for Ukraine -- a gift to Putin at a time when we should be standing with our allies. "This bill undermines our national security, hurts our military's readiness, and shortchanges those who serve our country," Vindman said. 2025 Culpeper Star-Exponent, Va. Visit www.starexponent.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. LONDON When a schoolboy going for a run found the ribs of a wooden ship poking through the dunes of a remote Scottish beach, it sparked a hunt by archaeologists, scientists and local historians to uncover its story. Through a mix of high-tech science and community research, they have an answer. Researchers announced Wednesday that the vessel is very likely the Earl of Chatham, an 18th-century warship that saw action in the American War of Independence before a second life hunting whales in the Arctic and then a stormy demise. I would regard it as a lucky ship, which is a strange thing to say about a ship thats wrecked, said Ben Saunders, senior marine archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology, a charity that helped community researchers conduct the investigation. I think if it had been found in many other places, it wouldnt necessarily have had that community drive, that desire to recover and study that material, and also the community spirit to do it, Saunders said. Uncovered After 250 Years The wreck was discovered in February 2024 after a storm swept away sand covering it on Sanday, one of the rugged Orkney Islands that lie off Scotlands northern tip. It excited interest on the island of 500 people, whose history is bound up with the sea and its dangers. Around 270 shipwrecks have been recorded around the 20-square-mile (50-square-kilometer) island since the 15th century. Local farmers used their tractors and trailers to haul the 12 tons of oak timbers off the beach, before local researchers set to work trying to identify it. That was really good fun, and it was such a good feeling about the community everybody pulling together to get it back, said Sylvia Thorne, one of the islands community researchers. Quite a few people are really getting interested in it and becoming experts. Dendrochronology the science of dating wood from tree rings showed the timber came from southern England in the middle of the 18th century. That was one bit of luck, Saunders said, because it coincides with the point where British bureaucracys really starting to kick off and detailed records were being kept. And so we can then start to look at the archive evidence that we have for the wrecks in Orkney, Saunders said. It becomes a process of elimination. You remove ones that are Northern European as opposed to British, you remove wrecks that are too small or operating out of the north of England and you really are down to two or three and Earl of Chatham is the last one left. Wars and Whaling Further research found that before it was the Earl of Chatham, the ship was HMS Hind, a 24-gun Royal Navy frigate built in Chichester on Englands south coast in 1749. Its military career saw it play a part in the expansion and contraction of the British Empire. It helped Britain wrest control of Canada from France during the sieges of Louisbourg and Quebec in the 1750s, and in the 1770s served as a convoy escort during Britains failed effort to hold onto its American colonies. Sold off by the navy in 1784 and renamed, the vessel became a whaling ship, hunting the huge mammals in the Arctic waters off Greenland. Whale oil was an essential fuel of the Industrial Revolution, used to lubricate machinery, soften fabric and light city streets. Saunders said that in 1787 there were 120 London-based whaling ships in the Greenland Sea, the Earl of Chatham among them. A year later, while heading out to the whaling ground, it was wrecked in bad weather off Sanday. All 56 crew members survived more evidence, Saunders says, that this was a vessel blessed with luck. Community Effort The ships timbers are being preserved in a freshwater tank at the Sanday Heritage Centre while plans are discussed to put it on permanent display. Saunders said that the project is a model of community involvement in archaeology. The community have been so keen, have been so desirous to be involved and to find out things to learn, and theyre so proud of it. Its down to them it was discovered, its down to them it was recovered and its been stabilized and been protected, he said. For locals, its a link to the islands maritime past and future. Finding long-buried wrecks could become more common as climate change alters the wind patterns around Britain and reshapes the coastline. One of the biggest things Ive got out of this project is realizing how much the past in Sanday is just constantly with you either visible or just under the surface, said Ruth Peace, another community researcher. LOBATERA, Venezuela Carlos Uzcategui tightly hugged his sobbing wife and stepdaughter on Wednesday as the morning fog in western Venezuela lifted. The family's first embrace in more than a year finally convinced him that his nightmare inside a prison in El Salvador was over. Uzcategui was among the migrants being reunited with loved ones after four months in prison in El Salvador, where the U.S. government transferred them -- accusing them of being members of a foreign gang in the U.S. illegally -- in one of its boldest moves to crack down on immigration. Every day, we asked God for the blessing of freeing us from there so that we could be here with family, with my loved ones, Uzcategui, 33, said. Every day, I woke up looking at the bars, wishing I wasnt there." "They beat us, they kicked us. I even have quite a few bruises on my stomach, he added before later showing a mildly bruised left abdomen. The migrants, some of whom characterized the prison as hell, were freed Friday in a prisoner swap between the U.S. and Venezuelan governments, but the latter sequestered them upon arrival to their country. Venezuela's president, Nicolas Maduro, and other officials have said many of the immigrants were physically and psychologically tortured during their detention in El Salvador, airing on state television videos of some of the men describing the alleged abuse, including rape, severe beatings and pellet-gun wounds. The narratives are reminiscent of the abuses that Maduros government has long been accused of committing against its real or perceived, jailed opponents. As the men reached their homes, they and their relatives shared deeply emotional moments in which sad tears and happy tears rolled down their cheeks at the same time. Uzcategui's wife, Gabriela Mora, 30, held onto their home's fence and sobbed as she saw the military vehicle carrying him approach after a 30-plus-hour bus ride to their mining community nestled in Venezuela's Andean mountains. She had set up gifts and decorations in their living room, including a star-shaped metallic blue balloon with a Happy Fathers Day greeting that his stepdaughter had saved since the June holiday. We Met a Lot of Innocent People The 252 men ended in El Salvador on March 16 after the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to pay $6 million to the Central American nation to house them in a mega-prison, where human rights groups have documented hundreds of deaths and cases of torture. Trump accused the men of belonging to the violent Tren de Aragua street gang, which originated in Venezuela. The administration did not provide evidence to back up the accusation. However, several recently deported migrants have said U.S. authorities wrongly judged their tattoos and used them as an excuse to deport them. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello on Friday said only seven of the men had pending cases in Venezuela, adding that all the deportees would undergo medical tests and background checks before they could go home. Arturo Suarez, whose reggaeton songs surfaced on social media after he was sent to El Salvador, arrived at his family's working-class home in the capital, Caracas, on Tuesday. His sister hugged him after he exited a vehicle of Venezuela's intelligence service. It is hell. We met a lot of innocent people, Suarez told reporters, referring to the prison he was held in. "To all those who mistreated us, to all those who negotiated with our lives and our freedom, I have one thing to say, and scripture says it well: Vengeance and justice is mine, and you are going to give an account to God Father. The Associated Press could not verify the abuse allegations that Suarez and other migrants narrated in the videos aired by state media. Attorney General Tarek William Saab on Monday said he had opened an investigation against El Salvador President Nayib Bukele based on the deportees' allegations. Bukele's office did not respond to requests for comment. Appointment to Seek Asylum The men left El Salvador as part of a prisoner exchange with the U.S., which received 10 citizens and permanent residents whom Maduros government had jailed over accusations of plotting to destabilize Venezuela. Mora said her husband migrated after the coal mine he had long worked at halved his pay and their street food shop went out of business in 2023. Uzcategui left Lobatera in March 2024 with an acquaintance's promise to help him find a construction job in Orlando. On his way north, Uzcategui crossed the punishing Darien Gap that separates Colombia and Panama, and by mid-April he had reached Mexico City. There, he worked at a public markets seafood stall until early December, when he was finally granted an appointment through a U.S. government smartphone app to seek asylum at a border crossing. But Uzcategui never walked free in the U.S., where authorities regarded his tattoos with suspicion, Mora said. He was sent to a detention center in Texas until he and other Venezuelans were put on the airplanes that landed in El Salvador. Still, she said she does not regret supporting her husband's decision to migrate. Its the countrys situation that forces one to make these decisions, she said. If (economic) conditions here were favorable..., it wouldnt have been necessary for him to leave to be able to fix the house or to provide my daughter with a better education. This file photo shows Michigan State University entomology graduate student Tim Harrison as he holds a spotted lanternfly in the backyard of a home in Toledo, Ohio, in October 2024. The invasive pest moved from Toledo into five southeast Michigan counties. (Garret Ellison | MLive) Garret Ellison LANSING, MI A free webinar will teach participants what to do if they find an invasive pest known for killing plants and feasting on fruit crops now spreading across southeast Michigan. In short, state officials want you to kill it. Then report it. Localized infestations of spotted lanternflies have been reported in southeast Michigan, specifically in Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, and Wayne counties. The invasive insect is native to eastern Asia and feeds on fruit, ornamental and woody trees. Related: The spotted lanternfly: A major nuisance coming to Michigan backyards Agriculture and environmental officials fear the invasive species will continue to spread farther across the state, threatening Michigans black walnut, river birch, willow, sumac, and red maple trees, plus grape vineyards, and apple and peach orchards. The risk is particularly great where the insects preferred host plant, the tree of heaven, is found growing, often because of intentional landscaping. Tree of heaven is another noxious and invasive species first imported into the United States in the 18th century from China. This file photo from October 2024 shows how spotted lanternflies blacken a tree-of-heaven trunk at a site in Toledo, Ohio. (Garret Ellison | MLive) Garret Ellison Entomology expert Deborah McCullough, professor at Michigan State University, will discuss the spotted lanternflys life stages, tree of heaven identification, and the impacts of spotted lanternfly on trees and people during a free, state-hosted webinar. Spotted lanternfly is an unwelcome invader that will annoy residents in areas with high populations, McCullough said in a released statement. Participants in the free webinar will learn how to manage spotted lanternfly infestations should the invasive bugs arrive in their communities. The webinar will begin at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 29. Registration can be found online through the states Not MI Species website. The next topic in the webinar series will be about how climate change is increasing native and invasive threats to Michigans trees. That event will be on Aug. 27. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra has activated the Bat Signal on the side of the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center ahead of its upcoming "Batman" concert. Photo provided by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra DETROIT - The Caped Crusader has been summoned in Detroit. The Bat Signal has been activated ahead of the Detroit Symphony Orchestras upcoming Batman concert. All week long, the Bat Signal is lighting up the exterior of the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, located at 711 Woodward Avenue, from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are available for the Batman 1989 concert taking place on Friday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. The concert features the iconic Danny Elfman score. It will be conducted by Lucas Waldin. The DSOs summer programming also includes concerts featuring Yacht Rock music and Disneys The Lion King animated motion picture. The Yacht Rock concert took place yesterday. The Lion King show is on Sunday, January 27 at 3:00 p.m. also conducted by Waldin. Tickets are available. HOLLAND, MI -- When Captain Darryl Holtz hauls the Wine Seller III down the Lakeshore, he has to leave extra time at the gas pump. Not for fuel or snacks, but because he knows hell get a least a few questions about the cool wooden boat hes got hitched. The sleek, cold-molded mahogany hull turns heads as the wooden exterior gleams in the sunlight. The boat mirrors pre-World War II craftsmanship, but this is no antique. The Verano is the latest blend of tradition and technology zipping around the Lakeshore this summer. On a sunny, summer day the Veranos voyage from Torch Lake to Lake Macatawa is a bit of a homecoming. The new company, Verano Boat Works, comes from the wooden boat restoration company, The Wooden Runabout Co. in Holland. The large garage with the hand-painted sign sitting off of the Blue Star Highway wouldnt catch your eye unless the doors were open. Inside is a time machine to the 1940s. Wooden boats inspired by, and some actually made by, iconic boat manufacturer Chris Craft are being sanded down for clients around the country. A year ago, the Verano was a passion project for co-owners Michael Teusink and Kirk Wingard. The two have been restoring and rebuilding wooden boats for 20 years. They mastered the old-school craft and then tinkered with it until it made sense for the modern world. Their boat holds up to 21st century standards and maintenance not to mention its got a whole lot more horsepower. Learning those techniques in the restoration world and admiring designs and wanting to tweak things is really what led us to come up with our own design, Teusink said. The Verano V25 built by Verano Boat Works on display in Holland, Mich. The mahogany wooden boat is nearly 25 feet long, with modern features and an Ilmore Inboard Engine and Transmission with 435 horsepower with a max speed of 55 MPH. Veranos parent company, The Wooden Runabout Co. has been building and restoring wooden boats since 2006. This is the first boat they have completed under the Verano company. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com Holtz, head of sales and deliveries at Elk Rapids Marina, is part of the team distributing this new take on a Michigan classic. Up North, the Verano debuted at the marinas Traverse City boat show and then showed off at the annual Boyne Thunder poker run. Holtz is all smiles when he talks about the Verano. Hes captained thousands of boats and yet he cant pick just one thing he loves most about this one. Its the 435 horsepower engine, the sound system, the joystick steering that makes anyone look like a dock pro. The list goes on. The short answer: Its a lot of fun to drive. The Verano V25 built by Verano Boat Works on display in Holland, Mich. The mahogany wooden boat is nearly 25 feet long, with modern features and an Ilmore Inboard Engine and Transmission with 435 horsepower with a max speed of 55 MPH. Veranos parent company, The Wooden Runabout Co. has been building and restoring wooden boats since 2006. This is the first boat they have completed under the Verano company. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com After spending approximately 4,000 hours crafting the Verano, Teusink has a list of his own. For him, its meeting the challenge of curves. Theres not a straight line on it, he said. Hours were spent shaping the front cover board to make it appear like one piece. Mahogany was sliced into 10 pieces and then painstakingly bent with hundreds of clamps of different sizes. Curving to look like one piece allowed them to match the grain all around and follow the curve of the boat creating something both satisfying and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The same can be said for the stainless-steel windshield and the giant carved piece of mahogany that became the dashboard. Each were a personal challenge to Teusink and Wingard and their team. The best part of building a dream boat? Moving onto the next one, Teusink said. I started life as a history teacher and when I was doing that I had to wonder am I doing a good job? In 20 years will these kids come back and say, you made a difference, he said. The work I do now, at the end of the day I can see that it was well done. The Wooden Runabout Co. co-owner Mike Teusink poses for a portrait inside their workshop in Holland, Mich. on Thursday, July 10, 2025. The company has been restoring and building wooden boats since 2006. In 2024 the small company launched Verano Boat Works, which is focused on building premier modern wooden boats. Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com Elk Rapids Marina owner Lewis Cooper learned about Wooden Runabout Co. at the Grand Rapids Boat Show, recommended by a group of wooden boat enthusiasts. The next day, Cooper came by the shop and saw the Verano when it was about 70% finished. By the end of the day, the boat was his, Teusink said. Together, they formed a partnership to make the marina the exclusive dealer of the new classic. But first, Cooper, and his wife and co-owner, Susie, got to have fun putting the bells and whistles onto their new showboat. The 25-foot boat was outfitted with blue leather seats, teak floors and hidden phone chargers. The Coopers wanted to keep the vintage aesthetic though. So theres no screen displays or huge speakers. When it came to the details, they wanted it traditional, and chose classic knobs for the dashboard. While the Coopers and Elk Rapids staff are certainly enjoying ripping across Torch Lake, ultimately everything is for sale. As is, this first model of the Verano Boat Works V25 is priced around $429,000, Holtz said. Pricing varies based on customization, but will start around $350,000, he said. Elk Rapids Marina has two locations, the main location on Elk Lake and a second Traverse City location on the Boardman River. LOS ANGELES - SEPTEMBER 22: (L to R) Actors David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, Courteney Cox Arquette, Jennifer Aniston and Matt LeBlanc pose backstage during the 54th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium on September 22, 2002 in Los Angeles, California. Aniston won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for "Friends." (Photo by Robert Mora/Getty Images) Getty Images LOS ANGELES -- A doctor accused of illegally providing drugs to actor Matthew Perry pleaded guilty Wednesday to four counts of distribution of ketamine, in relation to Perrys death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia entered his pleas Wednesday after previously agreeing to a plea deal in order to avoid going to trial. Plasencia, 43, faces up to 40 years in prison; however, it is expected that his sentence will be significantly less, the Associated Press reports. Still, the plea bargain does not include a guarantee of a shorter sentence. As part of the deal, prosecutors agreed to drop three additional counts of distribution of ketamine and two counts of falsifying records. Perry was found dead in his hot tub at his Los Angeles home on Oct. 28, 2023. Perrys death was determined to have been caused by a ketamine overdose. While prosecutors agreed that Plasencia did not sell Perry the dose that killed him, the doctor did provide the drug to Perry, knowing that he was a drug addict. Plasencia admitted to charging Perry thousands of dollars for doses of the drug which is primarily used as a surgical anesthetic. Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry, the doctors attorney, Debra White, said in an emailed statement to the AP after the hearing. He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution. Dr. Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction. Plasencia began providing ketamine to Perry about a month before his death. A co-defendant in the matter said Plasencia referred to Perry as a moron who could be exploited for money. Plasencia is one of five people who have been charged in connection with Perrys death. Plasencia is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 3. MICHIGAN -- President Donald Trump has committed federal funds to help Northern Michigan recover from a March 29 ice storm that caused severe damage in Northern Michigan. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced late Tuesday, July 22, on Facebook that she had received word from President Trump directly, committing federal funds to help Northern Michigan communities impacted by the historic ice storm damage earlier this year. Trump, in a Truth Social post, said he committed $50 million in public assistance funds. Earlier this year, Whitmer declared a state of emergency related to the ice storm for 10 counties: Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac and Alpena. State and federal authorities estimated the damage to public property and infrastructure at $137 million, according to Michigan State Police. The estimate does not include damage to private property. A state police official at the time described the damage as catastrophic. Immediately after the ice storm, more than 100,000 homes and business were without power. The exact form of federal aid coming to Michigan was not immediately clear. This weeks recalls and consumer warnings at Americas largest retailer include millions of above ground pools with a compression strap that can serve as a step, giving children access and posing a drowning hazard. With thousands of products on shelves and available online, Walmart serves millions of Americans; 90% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles of a Walmart store. When a product it sells is recalled, there can be widespread effects. Labeling mistakes, safety concerns, defects and contamination can all cause recalls on food, prescriptions and other products. Walmart and Sams Club are committed to the health and safety of our customers and members and to providing products that are safe and compliant, all supported by our health and wellness, product safety, and food safety professionals, the company said in a statement. In the event of a product recall, we work swiftly to block the item from being sold and remove it from our stores and clubs. Here are the latest recalls for products sold at Walmart and Sams Club: Food recalls Kayem Foods Inc. recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Sausage products due to possible contamination with plastic pieces - This recall includes 24,173 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken sausage that may be contaminated with pieces of plastic. The product was sold at Walmart stores in Alabama, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. RELATED: USDA issues highest recall warning for sausages sold nationwide Danone US LLC voluntarily recalls YoCrunch brand yogurt with topper for possible contamination with plastic pieces - Plastic pieces were found in the toppers. The product was sold at Walmart stores nationwide. RELATED: Yogurt cups recalled because they could contain sharp plastic pieces Mondelez Global LLC voluntarily recalls RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches, individual wrappers mislabeled as cheese variety - This recall includes select carton sizes of RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches. While the boxes are labeled correctly as containing peanut butter, some of the individual packages inside the box may be incorrectly labeled as cheese crackers and missing the peanut allergy warning, posing an allergen risk. They were sold at Walmart stores nationwide. Kraft Heinz Foods Company recalls 367,812 pounds of turkey bacon products - The recall includes fully cooked turkey bacon that could be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. The recall involves the Oscar Mayer brand bacon that was sold in various packaging sizes at select Walmart Stores and Sams Clubs. Affected states include Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and West Virginia. RELATED: National recall issued for 367,000 pounds of turkey bacon that can cause a serious infection Medication recalls Product recalls RELATED: Do you have one of the 5 million pools being recalled after multiple children drowned? Some of these recalls may also affect other retailers. Click the links to see complete details. ANN ARBOR, MI The mood was celebratory Tuesday in the Ann Arbor City Club as Ann Arbor honored a local volunteer and his dog for finding 82-year-old Ralph Yang alive after hed been missing for more than 50 hours. Ben (Osenbaugh) was out there, but with great humility, and his trusty partner, Dolly, Police Chief Andre Anderson said. Dolly was there, standing there right with him, assisting him as he conducted a search. Just an awesome situation. At a ceremony July 22, the city recognized many police officers along with Osenbaugh and Dolly for their heroism. Police officers gave Osenbaugh a Life Saving Award plaque, and Mayor Christopher Taylor and police officers spoke, commemorating Yang and Osenbaugh, while Dolly received cake and medal. Osenbaugh, 39, and the golden lab found Yang, a former University of Michigan professor of chemical engineering, just before 9 p.m. June 25 off Newport Road. Yang was subject of a community search after he had gone missing the evening of June 23 in northwest Ann Arbor, near Pin Oak and White Oak drives, when he went on a walk and didnt return. When Osenbaugh found Yang, he had no visible injuries. Yangs wife Frances, in a brief interaction with reporters Tuesday, described Yangs condition as good, but did not comment further. Ralph Yang did not make any public statements. He and Osenbaugh shook hands at the start of the ceremony. Thats why we joined the search effort, Osenbaugh said of seeing Yang doing well. Thats why we got involved. Thats all that really matters at the end of the day. And so to actually see him and shake his hand and see that hes up and about and doing well with physical therapy and all that, its amazing. Its a really good feeling. Osenbaugh had seen a community notice that Yang was missing on NextDoor. About an hour after he joined the search, he spotted Yang face down in a creek near where hed gone missing, he said. Osenbaugh frequently runs in the area and went off the path. I started to search in that area and just kind of stood in the right area at the right time and had a vantage point to Dr. Yang right off that road down in the creek, Osenbaugh said. Read more: Missing Ann Arbor man found alive after 3-day search Osenbaugh is 6 feet, 6 inches tall, and his stature helped him see Yang, Anderson said. I went out there and when I was next to Ben, Ben said, I saw him over here, and I can tell you I was standing right next to him, and I could not see where (Yang) was at because the foliage was so high, Anderson said. Only someone of his height and stature could see where Dr. Yang was located. And so that is fantastic. Osenbaugh joked he is glad his height was useful for more than changing lightbulbs, and he applauded all the volunteers and police officers who helped with the search. Anderson commended Yang, too, for his strength during the time he was missing. You are incredible, Anderson said. Your history with the University of Michigan, all the students (who) youve taught over the years, your wife having to drag you away from teaching because you just wanted to keep on, shows the resilience that you have. You withstood extreme heat, humidity, as well as a rainstorm that occurred. Strong. Really strong. Osenbaugh was just honored to help the police achieve their goal in finding Yang, he said. I showed up that day to help, Osenbaugh said. So, Im just proud I was part of a heroic effort of a community to find the end goal of getting Dr. Yang back home safe, which has happened. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page. Ypsilanti Community High School and ACTech have been officially green-lit as an International Baccalaureate school with a career-related program. (MLive file photo) Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com YPSILANTI, MI Ypsilanti Community High School and ACTech bear a new designation as part of an effort to expand academic offerings thats tied to a multi-million-dollar federal grant. Community and ACTech, located at the high school, have been officially green-lit as an International Baccalaureate school with a career-related program. Board Chair Andy Freeman, left, nterim President Shaunda Richardson-Snell, middle and Board Relations Coordinator Jordan Keyser, right, sit during the meeting, Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, in the Regional Technology Center Auditorium, Room 1005, on the campus of Mott Community College. (Nico Mendoza | MLive.com) MASON, MI An Ingham County judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Mott Community College Education Association that challenged the board of trustees hiring of college President Shaunda Richardson-Snell. MCCEA filed the lawsuit challenging the legality of the boards November 2024 vote to offer Richardson-Snell the contract despite an alleged conflict of interest that later surfaced. GENESEE COUNTY, MI The village of Gaines typically has less than 400 residents. But on a single weekend every year, that figure swells when the rodeo comes into town. Hundreds saddled up for two days of everything rodeo from July 18-19 this year when the 22nd annual Gaines Community Rodeo was held at Pine Hill Park. The event brought professional rodeo action with roughly 200 participants, local flavor, and a strong sense of community purpose. Attendees belted out the national anthem on Saturday night, followed by rodeo events including Team Roping, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc, Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway Roping, Barrel Racing, and Tie Down Roping. Those in the crowd -- man decked out in boots and cowboy hats -- oohed and awed along during every competition, regardless of if the participants were successful or not in their event. A concessions area was packed, so much so that organizers had to order more pizza before the events kicked off Saturday night. This years rodeo was sanctioned under the Flying Star Rodeo Hero Services Series, a move that not only opened the door to a wider range of competitors but also supports a Grand Rapids-based veteran and first responder nonprofit. Brian Wendt, now in his ninth year organizing the event, said his motivation comes from the lasting impact the rodeo has on the community. What it does for the community is what keeps me motivated, he said. Between seeing families come and enjoy and hearing their feedback, thats one aspect. And hearing from the contestants themselves that Gaines is one of their favorite rodeos to ride in because of our hospitality. Being a part of the Knights of Columbus and seeing the effect we have when we donate money to a house fire or when we set up a wheelchair ramp for someone who needs it. All of that keeps me going. The rodeo is hosted by Knights of Columbus Council #12186. Over the last three years, the event has raised more than $105,000, which has been donated back into the community. The money has supported local nonprofits such as MI Turning Point in Shiawassee County, which helps veterans and people experiencing homelessness, as well as area food pantries and individual families facing crises, including those whove lost their homes to fires. Donations have also gone to St. Joseph Church in Gaines. Levi Klum comes to the rodeo every year. I love the bull riding, said the 28-year-old Gaines resident. Its gotten really big. A lot more riders, a lot more people here. A lot better of an event than when it started. Aside from the action inside the arena, Klum enjoys the atmosphere that comes along with the event overall. You get a little bit of everybody here and everyones here just to have fun and watch the rodeo, he said. And, you know, some people that arent used to being out in the country get to know what its like to be in the country with the community and the morals. So, its a good time. A view of the Podunk House in Fenton Township on Tuesday, July 22. The township is currently developing plans to improve the Pioneer Museum and Podunk House with grant funds from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Nick Taylor | Ntaylor@Mlive.com FENTON TWP, MI One of the oldest houses in Genesee County and its accompanying museum are set to undergo several improvements thanks to a recent grant. Fenton Township officials applied for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunitys Community Museum Grant program in January and were officially awarded $136,806 for improvements to the Pioneer Museum and Podunk House this month. This is going to be able to allow Podunk to actually become the museum that it really deserves to be, said Fenton Township Supervisor Vince Lorraine. Its a great place. The Pioneer Museum and Podunk House is overseen by the Pioneer Memorial Association of Fenton and Mundy Townships, which was established in the 1960s amid plans to demolish the house, which John Cook built for George Thorp in 1836. The settlement of Podunk was founded by George Judson and is now part of Mundy Township, according to his great-great-grandson, Hewitt Judson, who serves as treasurer of the Pioneer Memorial Association. The Podunk House is believed to be the second-oldest house in Genesee County and served as the areas first post office. We still have the original post office box where they used to put the mail and all that, Madsen said. The museum also houses a collection of artifacts, including old tools, that have been donated over the years. Former Podunk House owners William Watkins and his wife deeded the home to Clarence Miller, George H. Judson, Russel Judson, and Harvey Swanbeck, who helped save the building from being destroyed. George H. Judson is Hewitt Judsons father and Russel Judson is Hewitt Judsons cousin. The Podunk House was built in Mundy Township and was moved to the corner of Torrey and Ray roads around the same time that the Pioneer Memorial Association was formed. The house and museum are now located at 2436 N. Long Lake Road in Fenton Township Everything inside is exactly how it was when it was moved, Madsen said. The Podunk House has garnered national attention, and Madsen said she spoke with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer about the house just a few days ago. Additionally, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson has visited the museum. Ive been with the group about 10 years, Pioneer Memorial Association Trustee Madsen said of the association. In the last five years, or even the last three years, our interest has really piqued within the community. Attendance at the Pioneer Memorial Associations meetings has also been up recently, Madsen said. Sometimes theres 15 to 20 people in there, Madsen said. Weve had more volunteers and people calling and asking what they could do to help. We kind of pride ourselves on that, knowing that the community is really behind us and wanting to get more involved in it. Preliminary plans for grant-funded improvements to the Pioneer Museum and Podunk House include connecting the property to municipal water and sewer systems as well as the addition of a full kitchen, serving areas, bathrooms, and a play area. The museum property does not currently have running water or cooking facilities. Additionally, the Pioneer Memorial Association would like to add a dehumidifier to the Podunk House, which was recently connected to electricity, and make the property more accessible for visitors with disabilities. One of the museums goals as it prepares to undergo these improvements is to partner with local schools, such as Lake Fenton Schools, to organize educational trips to the Podunk House, Hewitt said, noting that Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad provides a similar experience for area students. I think its going to be a place that people want to go see, Lorraine said. All that sort of stuff is really going to make a huge difference. The Fenton Township Parks and Recreation Committee will develop plans for the project and present them to the township board. Hewitt said plans for the project are still subject to change, noting the scope of the project was initially too large. Im assuming that theyre going to have to pitch in a little bit of extra money to get the water and sewer in, and theyve indicated that theyre amenable to doing that, he said of the township. Township officials are still working to determine a timeline for the project and estimate the total cost of improvements. However, Hewitt Judson he expects work on the project to begin this fall or next spring. In addition to offering occasional tours at the Podunk House, the Pioneer Memorial Association hosts Pioneer Day each year. It was started in 1969 as a tribute to the old pioneer picnic that was done starting in the 1830s by the early pioneers of Fenton Township, Hewitt Judson said. The event features tours of the museum property and is meant to teach attendees about what life was like for pioneers in the 19th century. This year, Pioneer Day will be held at the Pioneer Museum and Podunk House from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 6. This year, I believe our goal is to use a food truck and then next year have our own facility that we can prepare our own food again, Hewitt Judson said. Additional information about the Pioneer Museum and Podunk House is available online at pioneerassociation.weebly.com. GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Since becoming vegan two years ago, Grand Rapids resident Tiffany Coleman has been searching for the best local spots to dine out with her family. She told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press its been difficult finding reliable, 100% vegan eateries. Thats why she decided to open Go Vegan GR in May inside the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, located at 435 Ionia Ave. SW. We can always find vegan options, but it was only burgers, Coleman said of her and her fiance Sie Greens hunt for the best vegan restaurant in West Michigan. We wanted to create a place where we can bring people in, have handhelds something quick that tastes good and not too expensive. Coleman said she moved to the area from Ann Arbor in 2017. As an experienced entrepreneur, shes done everything from catering and launching an online clothing boutique to a tax business and credit repair. Despite her diverse business background, shes always been attracted to the food industry, as she loves to cook. Now that she no longer eats meat, shes focused on changing the narrative. Her fiance, who has been vegan for over 10 years, has been offering himself as a taste tester for Colemans new vegan creations. We tested it on the whole family, she said. I even got my 6-year-old, who is a meat-eater, to try it. Once I knew I could convince him, I knew I had something because hes very picky. Coleman said it took a lot of trial and error in the kitchen, whipping up recipes and sauces, seeing what worked and what didnt. She settled on a vegan menu with hints of the South that keeps people returning, even people traveling out of state to try the food. The restaurants most popular items are its Zodiac-themed handhelds. The main 12 handhelds are named after a Zodiac sign, with some of them named after her family members birthday month. Because Coleman is a Virgo, her go-to is the Virgo Nation Burger for $14. It comes with a charred and seasoned Impossible burger patty, drizzled in barbecue sauce, layered with a crispy onion ring, and smoked meatless bacon on a pretzel bun. Go Vegan GR also offers French fries, sweet potato fries, hearty salads, fresh-pressed juice, vegan boneless wings, vegan shrimp, vegan crab cakes, a vegan Philly cheesesteak with vegan chopped cheese and vegan chicken nuggets. The general price range is from $2-$16. View the full menu online. The thing about me is I season my food, and people love it, Coleman said. If you go online and look at our reviews, people rave about the flavors. We have already established a customer base, which is awesome. She said some customers who are used to meat questioned if some of the food was vegan because of the nostalgic taste. A prime example is the Libra Tip The Scale Philly for $14. Its loaded with jackfruit, sauteed onions, peppers, mushrooms, vegan cheese and special sauce. Coleman said one customer has come in over five times for the vegan cheesesteak. Even if youre not plant-based or vegan, you have options here when you want to try something different, she said. The fact that weve had such a warm welcome, I think Go Vegan GR will be around for a long time. Hours of operation for the new eatery are from 11 a.m. to 7:30 pm. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. In a Tuesday, July 22 Jackson City Council meeting, councilmembers passed a resolution to honor the legacy and service Griffin provided the city during his years in office, as the city treasurer and as a dedicated servant to the Jackson community. Mary Lewandowski| MLive.com JACKSON, MI Jackson officials honored former city mayor Martin Marty Griffin and discussed plans to fill the city treasurer position. In a Tuesday, July 22 Jackson City Council meeting, councilmembers passed a resolution recognizing the legacy and service Griffin provided the city during his years in office, as the city treasurer and as a dedicated community servant. Griffin, also a former state representative, died July 12, after battling pancreatic cancer. He was 63. Mayors are forever, Mayor Daniel Mahoney said. Once youre mayor, even when youre not elected, that desire to help the community is one that never goes away. City Manager Jonathan Greene expressed his condolences to the Griffin family and noted Griffin had been a mentor to him since he came to Jackson. He said Griffin cannot be replaced but reminded city councilmembers they have 60 days to fill the treasurer position. Griffin was appointed Jacksons treasurer in 2018, and remained in the position until his death. In the next couple of weeks, Greene said he will put together a timeline for finding a replacement. Greene said a job posting will be listed on the citys website and City Council will review qualified applicants. City Councils next meeting is at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 19 on the second floor of Jackson City Hall, 161 W. Michigan Ave. City council members will either decide to host a special meeting for the treasurer appointment or lump it with the August meeting, Greene said. The sucky part about dealing with this is we have to move on, but we dont have to forget, were always going to tell good stories, Greene said. Griffin graduated from Lumen Christi Catholic High School in 1980 and later earned a degree in communications and political science from the University of Michigan. At 33, he became the mayor of Jackson and served from 1995 to 2006 and 2011 to 2013, becoming the citys longest-serving mayor. In 2006, voters elected Griffin to the Michigan House of Representatives, and he represented the 64th District from 2007 to 2011. Griffin was a big supporter of the citys parks department during his time in office. His first city job was as a lifeguard at the then-operational Ella Sharp Park pool, and he served on the Parks and Recreation Commission. During his years as mayor, Griffin previously highlighted the development of Essex Park, water and sewer agreements with Blackman Township and improvements to city parks and the downtown as some the biggest accomplishments under his leadership. Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page. JACKSON, MI School uniforms will continue to be the standard at the Sharp Park Academy for the upcoming school year. The schools uniform policy will continue on unchanged, Jackson Public School Superintendent Jeremy Patterson announced during Tuesdays school board meeting, July 22. Democrat Brandell Adams in July 2025 officially launched his campaign for the vacant 35th District seat in Michigans Senate. BRIDGEPORT TWP, MI And then there was a primary challenger. One week after Democrat Pamela Pugh announced her candidacy for the 35th District seat in Michigans Senate, fellow Democrat Brandell Adams officially launched his campaign for the vacant seat. The pair so far remain the lone Democrats to file for the seat, left open in January when voters sent Kristen McDonald Rivet to the U.S. Congress. Adams is no stranger to politics or filling vacant elected positions. The Bridgeport Township Board of Trustees appointed him as a trustee in October 2021 after fellow Democrat Heather Wilson resigned her position. Adams then won an additional two terms via the votes of his constituents, including during the 2024 election. The 35-year-old Bridgeport Township native said he resigned his trustee post there to dedicate his time to pursuing the state Senate seat, which encompasses parts of Bay, Midland and Saginaw counties. I think folks in this district are looking for something new, something energetic, Adams said. Folks want to see the next generation of leadership start to take responsibility. Over the last 10 years, Ive shown what kind of leader I am. Adams leadership roles include serving in volunteer and leadership positions for the Saginaw County Democratic Party for 11 years. Since November 2024, he has served as the groups chairman. Adams said, if elected to the state Senate, he would address policy to guarantee children receive access to high-quality public education, safeguard local investments, and winning industries back to restore mid-Michigans historic reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse. Its unclear when Adams and his competition for the seat will appear on ballots. While Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has the power to call a special election to replace McDonald Rivet, the governor has not announced such plans. If no special election takes place, the seat would appear on ballots in 2026, with a new term set to begin in January 2027. The vacant state Senate seat has served as a focus of scrutiny for officials with local entities and political figures who have requested Whitmer call a special election. The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Midland Business Alliance and Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce have formally requested the governor call for a special election in an open letter. Adams said he is eager to provide representation for District 35 in the state Senate. Among the issues he said provide the most pressing need for a senators influence: the budget shortfalls school districts such as Bay City Public Schools face while navigating uncertainties in state lawmakers education plan. Theres no one to push for these teachers and for our school districts in the region in the state Senate, Adams said. I wish we had a strong advocate to communicate that in Lansing on the Senate side. Adams and Pugh are the lone Democrats to announce their candidacy for the open seat. Republican Chadwick E. Twillman, an Arizona native who lives in Michigan, is the lone Republican to file for the state Senate seat as a Republican. On Sunday, Israeli soldiers opened fire on a crowd of hungry Palestinians who rushed a food convoy as it entered Gaza, leaving at least 94 dead, and 150 wounded. Heres how one witness described it: Suddenly, tanks surrounded us and trapped us as gunshots and strikes rained down we were trapped for around two hours, said Ehab Al-Zei, who told the Associated Press that he hadnt eaten bread in 15 days. I will never go back again. Let us die of hunger, its better. The dead and wounded, we are told by Israels military, were hit by warning shots. A day earlier, on Saturday, they killed 32 Palestinians at another food station. The use of live ammunition to gun down unarmed people seeking food has become routine. Before the weekends slaughters, the United Nations estimated 875 had been killed while trying to secure food as of June 15. This is heartbreaking stuff, and not just for the Palestinians. Its heartbreaking for many Americans to watch Israel lose its soul like this. This is a country that was once easy to admire, a safe haven for Jews, finally, and a heroic story of survival against the odds. It was a country that tried, for a time, to find a path towards peace. Americans in both political parties offered fulsome support. What happened to that Israel? Now, children in Gaza are starving to death, and the few hospitals that have survived the bombings dont have enough medicine to treat the of flood of wounded civilians. Palestinians are forced to move, again and again, pitching tents amid the rubble as they dodge Israeli bombardments. It is a campaign that former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert describes as indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians. Should we dismiss him as antisemitic? How about the actor Mandy Patinkin, whose voice broke as he pleaded in anguish with his fellow Jews to stop this rampage? How could it be done to you and your ancestors and you turn around, and do it to someone else? he asked. Like many Americans, Ive had it. Each year, Gallup polls show that Israel is driving away more of us, especially among Democrats, who are now three times as likely to sympathize with Palestinians as with Israelis. Among all Americans, just 46 percent now say they sympathize more with Israel, a record low. The ferocious tactics in Gaza ensure that number will keep dropping. The Netanyahu government has turned Gaza into a hellscape that looks like Hiroshima in 1945, leaving more than 60,000 dead, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than half of them women and children. Will this continue until every last Hamas fighter is killed or flushed from the tunnels? This has gone way past self-defense. Netanyahus defense minister, Israel Katz, has ordered bulldozers to prepare a camp in southern Gaza that he says will eventually confine all 2.1 million Palestinians in the strip, with no option to leave unless another country takes them in. If people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave, Netanyahu says. Were working with the United States very closely about finding countries that will seek to realize what they always say that they wanted to give the Palestinians a better future. There is a term for this: ethnic cleansing. And Netanyahus talk about free choice is thin gruel when hes doing all he can to make life in Gaza unbearable. If this is self-defense, how do we explain the record expansion of Jewish settlements on the West Bank since Oct. 7, and the violence against Palestinians there, who played no role in the attack? According to the United Nations, 964 West Bank Palestinians have been killed by soldiers and settlers since Oct. 7, with nearly 3,000 homes bulldozed. Earlier this month, 15 cabinet members signed a petition calling for the outright annexation of that territory. No, this is not self-defense. This is driven by a far-right dream to establish direct Israeli rule from the river to the sea. I miss the old Israel. Under Olmert in 2008, and under Prime Minister Ehud Barack in 2000, Israel offered meaty concessions in search of a two-state solution, including ceding West Bank territory and dismantling some settlements. The Palestinians turned them down, an epic failure of leadership. They blew it again when they elected Hamas to run Gaza after Israel unilaterally withdrew in 2005, dismantling 21 settlements there. But Israel has changed. A two-state solution is off the table, West Bank settlements are expanding at a record pace, and Israelis overwhelmingly support the brutality in Gaza. A recent poll from Pew Research Center found that 39 percent of Israelis say the response has been about right and another 34 percent believe it has not gone far enough. For now, Israel is in no danger of losing its lifeline to America. The discontent thats showing up in polls has not reached the halls of Congress, beyond progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders, who has called for an end to military aid. But Democratic voters are peeling off in large numbers, and so are young people in both parties. We are witnessing a moral abomination. The sooner we end our support for it, the better. Moran is a national political columnist for Advance Local and the former editorial page editor/columnist for The Star-Ledger of Newark, N.J. He can be emailed at aquinas1222@gmail.com. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 22, 2025, GEESPACE, a satellite technology and commercial services company under Geely Holding, announced a strategic partnership with Cao Cao Mobility, Geely's shared mobility platform, according to press releases from both parties. The new collaboration aims to enhance the safety and connectivity of autonomous driving by leveraging the satellite services of the Geely Future Mobility Constellation, ensuring that service vehicles remain "always online, never out of reach." Photo credit: Cao Cao Mobility As part of the partnership, the two companies will jointly explore the application of global satellite communications and high-precision positioning in autonomous fleet management and operations. Vehicles operating on Cao Cao Mobility's autonomous driving platform will be equipped with GEESPACE's satellite-based solutions by default. This marks the first time GEESPACE's satellite communication and positioning technologies are being deployed at scale for autonomous vehicle management, laying the groundwork for broader satellite data service applications in next-generation mobility solutions like Robotaxis. Founded in 2018, GEESPACE has focused on independently building and operating low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations to support large-scale commercial applications. The company has launched 30 satellites into orbit, enabling satellite service coverage for 90% of the globe around the clock. It has also established more than 5,000 ground-based high-precision positioning stations across China, forming a globally connected, vertically integrated, and automotive-grade satellite service system. Under the new partnership, GEESPACE will provide Cao Cao Mobility with key technologies and servicesincluding satellite communications, high-precision positioning, self-developed chips, modules, terminal devices, and algorithm platforms. The companies will work together to create a closed-loop data architecture from satellites to in-vehicle terminals, integrating operational data to overcome technological and data silos in traditional supply chains. This collaboration will drive the deployment and scale-up of satellite-powered solutions in Robotaxi fleets and future mass-produced vehicles. GEESPACE CEO Wang Yang emphasized that the future of smart mobility goes beyond ground infrastructure, asserting that only an integrated system spanning space and Earth can offer the seamless connectivity and safety required for Robotaxis. "By working closely with Cao Cao Mobility across satellite services, chipsets, vehicle integration, and real-world deployment, we are building the communications backbone for a truly 'always connected' Robotaxi experience," Wang said. "This is more than a technical collaborationit's an upgrade to the entire mobility ecosystem." Cao Cao Mobility CEO Gong Xin highlighted that safety is both the fundamental premise and ultimate challenge of autonomous driving commercialization. "By integrating satellite technologies with intelligent vehicle systems, we're creating an innovative multi-layered safety redundancy framework," Gong noted. "This partnership reflects our commitment to user safety and our resolve to shape the future of secure mobility." The partnership represents a significant step toward enabling large-scale Robotaxi deployment with built-in safety redundancy. It also exemplifies the efficiency of Geely's integrated intelligent mobility ecosystem. As a leading shared mobility brand under Geely, Cao Cao Mobility has already built a fully self-developed closed-loop system that combines purpose-built vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and a ride-hailing platform. Through this collaboration, the two companies aim to fuse satellite and vehicle systems into a unified data networkpioneering a new "sky-space-ground" mobility architecture. The financial package offered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for a proposed semiconductor facility included a number of items lawmakers wouldve eventually had to sign off on. (MLive file photo) Charlie Nick | MLive.com Michigans $6.24 billion incentive package offered to SanDisk for now-dead plans to build a semiconductor factory near Flint wouldve faced stiff resistance from Republican lawmakers. It was a bad deal for taxpayers, so Im glad to see that it fell through in its current state, said state House Appropriations Chair state Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton Township. Imagine if somebody is investing $6 billion and the company doesnt think thats a good return on their investment with that? Theres a problem with the project. State economic development officials released details of their proposed incentive package to SanDisk following Gov. Gretchen Whitmers announcement last week that the $63 billion project fell through after the California-based chip manufacturer backed out. Whitmer said massive economic uncertainty at the national level drove SanDisks decision. The package offered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation included a number of items lawmakers wouldve eventually had to sign off on, from nearly $2 billion in cash grants for SanDisk to a new tax credit program that wouldve saved SanDisk an estimated $3.34 billion. If those items went before lawmakers, Bollin said she wouldve expected a lot of pushback, and not just from Republicans, on what she called an unprecedented offer. The incentive package appears to be the largest publicly known offer Michigan has made to court a single project to the state. It was offered amid a years-long competitive battle with other states and nations for the project, said MEDC spokesperson Otie McKinley. The proposed investment by SanDisk would have represented the largest project announcement in the states history, and the incentive package put forth was aligned with an investment of that magnitude, McKinley said. Michigans second-highest offer appears to be the $4 billion incentive package pitched to Amazon to have the online retail giant build its second U.S. headquarters in Detroit, the Detroit News reported. Amazon went with Virginia instead. The SanDisk project would have consisted of up to four semiconductor fabrication facilities on the states 1,300-acre megasite in Mundy Township. MEDC officials estimate it wouldve created an estimated 9,400 jobs, with another 5,000 being supported during peak construction. An MEDC-commissioned study showed Michigan would eventually make back its investment on the project sometime after more than two decades, even with the proposed sweeping tax breaks. Locally, revenue would be generated by $10 million annual payments from SanDisk and other payments in lieu of taxes. The project falling through was a disappointment to many who saw it as a way to increase jobs, wages and investment in the Flint region. The only money allocated by the Legislature for the project was $259 million to purchase and ready the site, and many are hopeful another project will find a home there. Bollin said House Republicans want to see investment in Michigan and a renaissance in American manufacturing, like President Donald Trump has pledged. The SanDisk project, and the incentives offered, were not the right move, though, she said. We have a declining population. We have an aging population. We still have infrastructure that is not in the best condition, she said. There are plenty of things for us to be investing general fund dollars in and to a project thats going to suck up so much money with an uncertain future, it just doesnt seem wise to do that. Bollin expressed concern about the proposed relocation of a school and housing to make way for the project. She also said there were exaggerated projections about the chip plant, that there were inadequate clawbacks for taxpayer dollars and that it was a huge amount of money to benefit one company. Do we want to bring manufacturing these products to the United States and have it done by American companies? Absolutely, she said. Do we want to work towards that in being a state that attracts those supportive of what the initiative is at the federal level with President Trump? Absolutely. But this was not the right solution or project to encounter that at this scale. State Rep. Steve Carra, R-Three Rivers, chairs the House Committee on Corporate Subsidies and State Investments, which looks at how taxpayer-funded incentives are used to attract business to the state. He said the SanDisk project falling through was a great victory for the state of Michigan. This is just another example of companies looking to get massive taxpayer-funded bribes to come to Michigan and deals that dont come to fruition like they are promised to, they dont deliver on the results that theyre supposed to, Carra said. The way to attract businesses and good projects, Carra said, isnt through these eye-watering billion dollar incentive packages but through a better business environment. That includes quality infrastructure like roads and energy, lowering taxes and cutting regulations. Bollin and Carra said they want to see MEDCs power reined in when it comes to negotiating these deals and how it uses taxpayer dollars. Though not an official state department, MEDC operates as a quasi-state agency, using both state and private dollars to fund economic development initiatives and projects. The organization also manages the Pure Michigan campaign. The agencys mission is to achieve long-term economic prosperity for Michiganders through investments in communities, enabling job growth and promoting the states image. Carra said his committee is looking into legislation that would shed more light on these incentive packages being offered by the MEDC. Theyve been given the ability to oversee these corporate handouts without the legislature being able to get that information and of course the people of Michigan not knowing the details but us in the legislature not knowing a sufficient amount of the details of what goes into these deals, Carra said, and the more transparency that we can bring to these projects, the more we can communicate with the people of Michigan about whats actually going on. McKinley said the opinions of lawmakers factored into the incentive package offered. ... We have worked closely with our bipartisan colleagues in the legislature to gauge their opinions, perspectives, and considerations to put forth an incentive package that would bring this level of investment to the state, he said. Bollin wants to see tighter constraints on these massive projects and any state funds put toward them, along with ensuring money that is allocated by the Legislature can be pulled back if a project changes. No. 1, I would pull back the reins on them and their autonomy and Id get the MEDC back to work in the Lansing office, she said. House Republicans have sought to end remote work for state employees. Bollin also wants to see the potential return on investments for these projects measured early on. MEDC sponsored an economic and fiscal impact study for the SanDisk project that was completed March 2025. That study showed the state would, even with its massive incentive package, see more state revenues coming in through taxes than it had spent on the project. The study estimated the project would add $5.31 billion to the states Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and create numerous indirect jobs. United States Representative Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, will not be running to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate. Joel Bissell | MLive.com ZEELAND, MI -- U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, will not be running to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate. Huizenga announced the decision through a post on X, saying the decision was made after conversations with his wife, family and President Donald Trump. U.S. Sen. Gary Peters announced he will be retiring when his term ends in December 2026 after 10 years as senator. Huizenga has not yet announced whether he will be seeking reelection to represent Michigans 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Michigans 4th District includes all of Allegan and Van Buren counties and portions of Berrien, Calhoun, Kalamazoo and Ottawa county. Holland, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Portage are among the cities included in the district. Huizengas term ends in December 2026. Every time Bill has considered running, he sits down with his wife, Natalie, and their children and they have a family discussion, said Brian Patrick, communications director for Huizengas office. They just havent had (the conversation) yet. With Huizenga out of the running to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate, the field of Republican candidates has narrowed, which includes former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers. Several Democratic lawmakers have also announced plans to run for the seat being vacated by Peters, including U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, former gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed and State Sen. Mallory McMorrow. State Sen. Sean McCann, D-Kalamazoo, has announced plans to run for the U.S. House seat Huizenga currently holds. McCann has served as a state senator since 2018. Huizenga beat Democrat Jessica Swartz in the 2024 race for the seat 55% to 43%. Swartz is among the Democrats running again in 2026, along with Diop Harris. The Las Vegas Aces and the Atlanta Dream are back in action tonight following the All-Star break, as the two teams are set to face off at 10 p.m. ET. Fans can watch tonights contest on ESPN with streaming available through FuboTV, Sling and DirecTV. Streaming Options Streaming Options Price/Month Free Trial Deal FuboTV $84.99 Yes $20 off the first month Sling $45.99 N/A Half off the first month DirecTV $89.99 Yes $30 off the first month The Aces are 11-11, putting them eighth in the WNBA standings. Las Vegas star Aja Wilson has been electric since returning from a wrist injury, putting up 34 and 37-point performances back-to-back. Cheyenne Parker-Tyus has been ruled out for tonights game and Jackie Youngs playing status will be a game-time decision due to a left hip injury. The Dream currently have the fifth-best record in the league at 13-9. Rhyne Howard remains sidelined for the Dream with a knee injury and is not expected to return until August. Tonights game will serve as the first meeting between these two teams this season. WNBA Las Vegas Aces (11-11) vs. Atlanta Dream (13-9) When: Tuesday, July 22 Where: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada Time: 10 p.m. ET Channel: ESPN Dangerous waves and currents will develop on Lake Michigan today from Muskegon northward up the shoreline. Graphic provided by the National Weather Service MUSKEGON, MI - As the heat starts to soar today, it will feel like a great day to be at the beach. But the wind is creating currents and wave action that could make swimming dangerous. The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards advisory, noting dicey conditions from Muskegon beaches and shoreline areas stretching north toward the Leelanau Peninsula. Dangerous waves and currents will develop on Lake Michigan today from Muskegon northward up the shoreline, NWS meteorologists in the Grand Rapids office said. Winds will increase to around 20 mph on the lake, which will build waves to 3 to 5 feet. Dangerous swimming conditions are expected to develop. South sides of south piers will be the most hazardous locations to swim. Even beaches south of Muskegon are hoisting red flags as conditions get more dangerous. Grand Haven State Park staff around lunchtime today shared an update on beach conditions on its social media page. They told people there were 3-foot waves off the beach there and Red Flag conditions were present. U.S. National Weather Service (in) Grand Rapids Michigan has issued a beach hazards statement for Muskegon County and north. While we are just outside of that hazards statement area, we are seeing a slow but steady increase in winds as well as increased water current activity throughout out the length of the beach. Swimming (is) not advised. We know its hot today, keep an eye on Holland State Parks page too, they arent too far away and may have different water conditions since theyre further south." A life ring on the beach at Meinert Park that spans 182 acres of forested dune and beach along Lake Michigan in Northern Muskegon County, Michigan. Joel Bissell | MLive.com Here is the information from the Beach Hazards statement issued by the NWS: Dangerous swimming conditions are expected along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Mason, Oceana and Muskegon counties through late tonight, according to a beach hazards statement. Strong south winds around 20 mph are creating high wave action and dangerous currents that pose significant risks to swimmers. Waves are expected to reach 2 to 5 feet, with the highest waves near Big and Little Sable Points this afternoon. Strong currents can pull swimmers into deeper water, while high waves may sweep people off piers. The south sides of south piers are particularly dangerous today, including Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon. Piers may be heavily swamped by waves, adding to the hazardous conditions. Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story based on data from the National Weather Service. It was reviewed, edited and expanded by MLive staff. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 23, Chinese autonomous driving company Pony.ai announced that public road testing of the ARCFOX T5 powered by its Gen-7 autonomous driving system (namely, Pony.ai's seventh-generation autonomous vehicle model) has officially begun in Beijing. This milestone comes just half a month after the same model was approved for testing in Shenzhen, following earlier authorization in Guangzhou. Photo credit: Pony.ai The simultaneous greenlight in China's three leading megacities marks a strong start for Pony.ai's plan to deploy a Robotaxi fleet of 1,000 units by the end of this year. The rollout of multiple seventh-generation models across Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen underscores the robustness and versatility of Pony.ai's L4 autonomous driving solution. The vehicles are being put to the test in diverse urban environments that vary widely in traffic behavior, road layouts, and climate conditionshighlighting the system's adaptability, platform stability, and scalability. In Beijing alone, the seventh-generation autonomous vehicle fleet is already conducting routine operations within a 225-square-kilometer autonomous car demonstration zone. These efforts are expected to enrich mobility options for local residents while contributing to the city's broader push for smarter, more efficient urban transportation systems. The licensed ARCFOX T5 vehicles are co-developed by Pony.ai and BAIC BJEV, and first debuted at the AUTO SHANGHAI 2025 this April. Built natively on BAIC BJEV's BEV (battery electric vehicle)-dedicated platform, the model supports full-stack redundancy required for L4 autonomy. It is equipped with Pony.ai's Gen-7 integrated hardware-software system. The vehicle houses 34 sensors across six categories, including LiDAR, cameras, millimeter-wave radar, microphones, water sensors, and collision detectors. This comprehensive sensor suite enables full-scenario, all-weather, and round-the-clock autonomous driving capabilities that span urban roads, highways, and ring roads. At the heart of the technology is Pony.ai's "world model + virtual driver" framework, which allows the system to safely navigate variable lighting, complex road conditions, and rare long-tail edge cases. Notably, with a 70% reduction in autonomous driving hardware costs compared to earlier generations, the new vehicle delivers smoother, safer performance in challenging scenariossuch as narrow street stops, emergency vehicle yielding, sudden pedestrian intrusions, low-light environments, and toll booth passages. Saurav Pandey is the Deputy Manager of Content at Moneycontrol, specialising in content strategy, execution and performance analysis. He integrates advanced SEO techniques to deliver high-impact, data-driven content formats. His expertise spans various beats, including education, career, science and others, where he adopts a technical approach to optimise visibility, improve search rankings, and drive organic traffic growth. He can be reached out at Saurav.Pandey@nw18.com. Saurav Pandey 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 Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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 On a closed test track, a prototype intelligent vehicle moves forward slowly. A group of engineers stands nearby, not watching the steering wheel or sensors, but fixated on the real-time signals streaming across their monitors. This is another simulation test underway at NVIDIA's AI Systems Inspection Lab. You may not have heard of this lab yet, but it's where NVIDIA and its partners validate the safety integration of their products with core elements of Halos. And Halos? It's not a product name it's a safety framework. A bold attempt by NVIDIA to rebuild the safety foundation for intelligent assisted driving and create a system worthy of trust. photo credit NVIDIA NVIDIA Halos is a full-stack safety framework for intelligent vehicles, integrating hardware, software, AI models, simulation environments, and validation services. At its core is the concept of physical AIa safety architecture that spans the full process from cloud training to in-vehicle deployment. Starting from infrastructure, NVIDIA first introduced the world's first AI Systems Inspection Lab. On that foundation, it gradually evolved Halosa comprehensive safety system that stretches from cloud to edge to vehicle. 1. AI Systems Inspection Lab: From Setting Standards to Earning Trust In January 2025, NVIDIA unveiled the industry's first AI Systems Inspection Lab at CES. More than a symbolic milestone, it is certified by ANAB under ISO/IEC 17020, and integrates six key domains into a single framework: functional safety (ISO 26262), safety of intended functionality (ISO 21448), cybersecurity (ISO 21434), AI functional safety (ISO PAS 8800, ISO/IEC TR 5469), and relevant UN regulations (UN-R 79, 13-H, 152, 155, 157, and 171). photo credit NVIDIA Built to support partners using NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin and Thor platforms, the lab helps verify whether AI-driven vehicle systems meet the industry's most rigorous safety requirements. "Being a member of the AI Systems Inspection Lab means working at the forefront of automotive systems innovation and integrity," said Cristian Casorran Hontiyuelo, advanced driver-assistance system engineering and product manager at Ficosa. OMNIVISION, onsemi, and Continental have also joined, validating sensors, central compute modules, and chip interfaces. The methods developed and refined in the lab would go on to shape Halos. 2. The Birth of Halos: From Philosophy to Systemic Safety Engine In spring 2025, NVIDIA officially launched Halos at GTC. More than just a product, Halos embodies a "safety-first philosophy"not adding safety as an afterthought, but building it in from the first line of code. Halos integrates all of NVIDIA's core technologies: DRIVE AGX platforms (compute), DriveOS (operating system), DGX (AI model training), Omniverse and Cosmos (simulation), and the Inspection Lab (compliance and validation). photo credit NVIDIA The Halos architecture spans the full lifecycle from design and deployment to validation and comprises four essential pillars Platform Safety: Halos features a safety-assessed system-on-a-chip (SoC) with hundreds of built-in safety mechanisms. It also includes NVIDIA DriveOS software, a safety-certified operating system that extends from CPU to GPU; a safety-assessed base platform that delivers the foundational computer needed to enable safe systems for all types of applications; and DRIVE AGX Hyperion, a hardware platform that connects SoC, DriveOS and sensors in an electronic control unit architecture. Algorithmic Safety: Halos includes libraries for safety data loading and accelerators, and application programming interfaces for safety data creation, curation and reconstruction to filter out, for example, undesirable behaviors and biases before training. It also features rich training, simulation and validation environments harnessing the NVIDIA Omniverse Blueprint for AV simulation with NVIDIA Cosmos world foundation models to train, test and validate AVs. In addition, it boasts a diverse AV stack combining modular components with end-to-end AI models to ensure safety with cutting-edge AI models in the loop. Ecosystem Safety: Halos includes safety datasets with diverse, unbiased data, as well as safe deployment workflows, comprising triaging workflows and automated safety evaluations, along with a data flywheel for continual safety improvements demonstrating leadership in AV safety standardization and regulation. AI Systems Inspection Lab: First of its kind to be accredited by ANAB, NVIDIA AI Systems Inspection Lab inspects and verifies the integration of partners' products with NVIDIA Halos' safety elements Most importantly, Halos standardizes, modularizes, and formalizes these capabilities into a reusable toolkitsupporting full-lifecycle safety across data generation, training, simulation, deployment, and OTA updates. "Halos is not just a technology stackit's a philosophy that makes every phase of development traceable, testable, and explainable," said Riccardo Mariani, VP of Industry Safety, NVIDIA. 3. Process-Driven Safety: The Foundation of Halos The roots of Halos trace back to NVIDIA's early partnerships with TUV SUD and TUV Rheinland for DRIVE Orin and DRIVE AV platform certification. These collaborations helped formalize the "designverifydeploy" model, now embedded in Halos. The system is modular and developer-friendly: partners can build custom L3 solutions atop DRIVE OS or use Cosmos-based synthetic data to simulate edge cases all within Halos' structured framework. photo credit NVIDIA Use cases range from urban delivery to highway freight: Nuro uses Halos platform safety tools for redundancy and OTA risk management in its autonomous delivery fleet. Aurora integrates Halos algorithm modules to train and test L4 trucks under extreme weather conditions. Waabi adopts Halos ecosystem layer to accelerate model iteration through a real-world + simulation data loop. These examples show how Halos' physical AI security model supports scalability and domain adaptation. 4. Halos Beyond Cars: Expanding into Robotics At GTC Paris in June 2025, NVIDIA announced the expansion of Halos beyond assisted driving now including robotics under its AI safety framework. In June 2025 at GTC Paris, NVIDIA extended Halos beyond vehicles into robotics. photo credit NVIDIA Companies like Boston Dynamics, Advantech, Trimble, and Easyrain have joined the Lab ecosystem: Boston Dynamics validates emergency behavior and autonomous movement of its Atlas robot; Advantech uses Halos to test logistics robots under dynamic warehouse conditions. This reflects Halos' broader mission: building trust in physical AI systems across industries, from streets to factories. At the GTC Paris conference held on June 11, NVIDIA officially announced the expansion of its Halos framework from a focus solely on intelligent driving to encompass the broader robotics ecosystem, aiming to enhance safety across the full development lifecycle of AI-powered machines. Specifically, the Halos AI Systems Inspection Laboriginally designed for intelligent drivingnow also supports the functional safety assessment of robotics platforms. With this broadened scope, several leading companies have joined the Halos Lab ecosystem, including Bosch, active safety developer Easyrain, positioning solutions provider Trimble, mobile robotics pioneer Boston Dynamics, IoT and embedded systems specialist Advantech, logistics operator ArcBest, autonomous agriculture innovator Bluewhite, safety radar manufacturer Inxpect, intelligent motion control solution provider NexCOBOT, and motion technology company Synapticon. This marks a shift in Halos' rolefrom a symbol of automotive-grade safety to a foundational trust framework for all AI systems that engage in real-world physical decision-making. 5. China: A Regulatory Window of Opportunity In late 2024, China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued new regulations requiring type approval for L3+ driving systems. These policies prioritize explainability, system traceability, and AI cybersecurityexactly the areas Halos addresses. NVIDIA has aligned Halos with these evolving compliance needs. Without binding partners to any commercial stack, Halos provides modular toolssimulation, data governance, validation APIsthat help Chinese OEMs and suppliers navigate this new regulatory terrain. Conclusion As intelligent technologies accelerate the transformation of the automotive industry, bringing AI into vehicles takes more than just leaps in algorithm accuracy. The real challenge lies in building a standardized, sustainable safety framework that the entire industry can rely on. That's precisely the thinking behind NVIDIA's Halos system. By connecting platform design, AI model training, simulation testing, and regulatory compliance, Halos weaves safety into every stage of vehicle development. The road to smarter mobility may be long, but with Halos, the journey is fasterand far more secure. Vaani Kapoor on OTT debut with Mandala Murders: The long format lets you go deeper as an actor Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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 Priyansh Verma 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 Shaleen Agrawal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept In August 26 edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: It's silver's moment to shine, lucrative domestic manufacturing would stem fert... Moneycontrol Pro Panorama | How to keep calm and bank on Paytm walks away from DLG: Why fintech major is ditching guarantees in lending for good 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 HELSINKI, July 22 (Xinhua) -- China's shipbuilding industry offers advanced technology, competitive pricing, and a strong focus on energy efficiency and emissions reduction. These strengths, combined with Europe's maritime expertise, can support win-win cooperation, said Thomas Doepel, CEO of Finnish shipping company Finnlines. Doepel, in an interview with Finnish business daily Kauppalehti published on Tuesday, praised Finnlines' latest vessels built in China, describing them as a major step forward for both the company and the broader maritime sector. "The introduction of these ships could halve emissions per transported unit," he said, noting that the improvements reflect not only the technological progress of Chinese shipyards but also position Finnlines ahead of tightening international regulations. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is expected to decide this October on a potential emissions trading system for the global shipping industry, which would reward vessels with lower emissions, said Doepel, indicating that Chinese shipbuilding industry's focus on energy-saving and emission-reduction technologies can play an important role in supporting the shipping sector's green transition. Headquartered in Helsinki, Finnlines is Finland's largest shipping company and operates mainly in the Baltic Sea. It carries over a million passengers each year, with freight transport accounting for 85 percent of its revenue. Over the past 20 years, the company has invested two billion euros (2.35 billion U.S. dollars) in new vessels. All of its most recent ships have been built in China, including three more ordered earlier this year. Doepel attributed the choice to China's large-scale production capacity and cost advantages. "European shipyards simply lacked the capacity to deliver such a large order on schedule, while Chinese yards offered excellent conditions," he said. He stressed that the decision was pragmatic rather than political. "China has developed strong capabilities in shipbuilding, and cooperation with them brings clear benefits," he said. "That doesn't mean we should neglect Europe's own shipbuilding sector -- we need both openness and strategic foresight." On calls to decouple from China, Doepel was firm: "We cannot isolate others without isolating ourselves. The Chinese are hardworking and capable -- there is much we can learn from each other." He added that Finnish and European maritime expertise remains globally relevant, even when shipbuilding is carried out abroad. "Europe should understand that trade and interdependence can be tools for managing risk and driving shared growth." Doepel concluded that Europe's maritime cluster still holds world-class know-how, and that cooperation between China's advanced shipbuilding and Europe's technical expertise can jointly support the development of the global maritime industry, Kauppalehti reported. (1 euro = 1.17 U.S. dollar) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 21, Wuhan Weineng Battery Asset Co., Ltd. (Mirattery), a battery asset management company backed by NIO and CATL, signed strategic cooperation agreements with the Wuhan's Optics Valley Smart Manufacturing Industry Park Construction Service Center (Optics Valley) and Hubei Science Technology Investment Group Co., Ltd. (HBSTI) respectively, according to a post on Mirattery's WeChat account. The parties will deepen collaboration across multiple areas including battery asset management, industrial investment, and capital markets. HBSTI, a major shareholder of Mirattery, has further increased its investment during Mirattery's Series C funding round, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Mirattery's business prospects. Leveraging the solid industrial foundation, world-class business environment, and cutting-edge research and talent advantages of Optics Valley, Mirattery established the comprehensive research institute in 2022, which in 2025 becomes an internship and practice base for Huazhong University of Science and Technology, one of China's first "Double First-Class" universities. Photo credit: Mirattery As Mirattery's founding shareholder and a key industry investor in Optics Valley, HBSTI has injected powerful momentum into Mirattery's establishment and development, helping Mirattery rapidly grow into a leading player in the field of battery asset management. Since its founding nearly five years ago, Mirattery has already managed more than 27GWh of operational battery assets, serving over 350,000 users. Photo credit: Mirattery This new agreement marks a significant upgrade in the ongoing collaboration between Mirattery and Optics Valley. Moving forward, Mirattery will continue to uphold the principle of mutual benefit and deepen its involvement in the high-quality development of Optics Valley, a national-level high-tech zone. By firmly rooting itself in Optics Valley's fertile development grounds, Mirattery aims to enhance the region's scientific and technological innovation capabilities and industrial strength, contributing to the establishment of a globally leading new energy industry hub in Optics Valley. GST council needs to decide on compensation cess by October as loan repayment nears completion Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com Meghna Mittal 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 It's business as usual for Jane Street, at least globally; hiring mode on, no mention of SEBI order on site Ashish Rukhaiyar 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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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 Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Paras Bisht A financial journalist with over 10 years of experience, specialising in tracking stock market movements and fundamental developments that impact investors and the broader economy. A keen observer of global financial markets, I regularly engage with leading market voices to write stories. At Moneycontrol, I focus on decoding market trends, policy shifts and economic changes, driven by a constant passion to learn, analyse, and share knowledge with my readers. Paras Bisht USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Veer Sharma 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 Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On July 22, FAW Jiefang Automotive Co., Ltd. ("FAW Jiefang")the commercial vehicle arm of FAW Groupformally signed an enhanced strategic cooperation agreement with TELD, a major Chinese operator of charging infrastructure, according to a post on FAW Jiefangs WeChat account. The two parties pledged to jointly advance the development of a global ecosystem for new energy commercial vehicles, with a focus on accelerating the transition toward low-carbon, sustainable transportation across international markets. Photo credit: FAW Jiefang Under the agreement, FAW Jiefang and TELD will integrate their respective strengths to drive forward key initiatives in product deployment, charging infrastructure network expansion, and operational innovation. A core objective is the global rollout of more than 10,000 charging terminals for heavy-duty trucks, the construction of 100 microgrid-based charging stations, and a cumulative charging capacity target of 50 billion kilowatt-hours. The collaboration also covers multiple fronts. In terms of product innovation, the two sides will co-develop new charging technologies, including high-power and automated charging solutions. On the infrastructure front, the partnership will explore integrated microgrid models that combine solar generation, energy storage, and vehicle-to-grid charging to enhance energy efficiency and utilization. Digitally, the companies aim to build a joint data-sharing platform to improve maintenance workflows and elevate the user experience. The partnership also has a strong global ambition: both parties will work together to expand into overseas markets, aligning their international strategies and deployment efforts. Additionally, the agreement includes potential capital cooperation initiatives, leveraging both firms industry leadership and market influence to deepen long-term strategic synergies. Tata Motors, M&M, Maruti gain up to 3% as US-Japan trade deal sparks optimism for India ties Veer Sharma USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *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 Viswanath Pilla is a business journalist with 16 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, Pilla covers pharma, healthcare and infrastructure sectors for Moneycontrol. J Jagannath 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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She focusses primarily on insurance, banking, taxation and financial planning Preeti Kulkarni 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 Ashish 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. 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I Accept Shiladitya Pandit 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 President Donald Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hold a bi-lateral meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington DC on July 22. Photo: VCG (Global Times) During a meeting at the White House on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump told visiting Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, "I don't mind if he gets along with China, because we're getting along with China very well." The comment was seen by the media as catching Marcos off guard, interpreting it as a stunning message to the Philippine president regarding China. When asked how he plans to balance his country's relationships between the U.S. and China, Marcos said there was no need to balance. "Our strongest partner has always been the US," said Marcos. However, in response, Trump said "We're getting along with China very well. And I don't mind if the president dealt with China, you know, because I think he has to do what's right for his country." "I've always said, you know, make the Philippines great again. Do whatever you need to do, but [if] you're dealing with China, wouldn't bother me at all," said Trump. Marcos is hoping that his meeting with Trump will help secure Manila's status as a key Asian ally and lead to a more favorable trade deal before the August 1 deadline, Reuters reported. The Associated Press also noted that the Philippine president's three-day visit underscores the importance of the US-Philippines alliance at a time when tensions between China and the Philippines remain high over disputes in the South China Sea. After meeting with Marcos, Trump announced a reduction in tariffs on the Philippinesbut it was merely a token one percent cut. Trump said on Truth Social that the US would impose a 19 percent tariff rate on the Philippines, only down from a 20 percent tariff he threatened starting August 1. In return, he said, the Philippines would have an open market and the US would not pay tariffs. Trump wrote that Marcos' visit was "beautiful," and it was a "Great Honor" to host such a "very good, and tough, negotiator," AP reported. Global Times Siddharth Chakravorty 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 Yeeshu 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. 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 Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Dixon expects swift clearance for China JVs, to file new component applications next week Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 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 Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. 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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 Former Rolls-Royce cars of Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan slapped with Rs 38 lakh fine thanks to KGF Babu Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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 Sonalee Borgohain 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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The award ceremony will be held on August 1 to mark the 105th death anniversary of Tilak, an iconic leader of the freedom movement, trust president Dr Rohit Tilak said at a press conference here. 'It's extremely wrong to ...': Fadnavis on speculations after Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar's praises 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. 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I Accept 'Serial borrower from IMF, steeped in fanaticism': India rips into Pakistan during UN debate Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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 Tejashwi Yadav hints at possibility of Bihar poll boycott over SIR exercise: Whats the point? 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 'You're just a kid': Nitish Kumar chides Tejashwi Yadav over remarks on SIR in Bihar Assembly Chhabi Kala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Acquittal of 7/11 suspects calls for an intense review of Indias anti-terror mechanism C Uday Bhaskar is Director, Society for Policy Studies, New Delhi. 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 State fisheries managers are overseeing a project on the lower Madison River this fall to rebuild a disappearing island. While building a bigger island may seem like a strange way to boost trout numbers, the plan is to provide more spawning and nursery habitat in a stretch of the famed stream where the channel has widened over the past 50 years. In part due to this change in habitat, brown and rainbow trout populations below Bear Trap Canyon have been declining. Our management goal is about 2,500 fish per mile, and we're down to about 1,000, said Mike Duncan, Region 3 fisheries manager for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. From the time period of about 2000 to 2015 we were bouncing around that management goal, and then after about 2015 we've consistently been at between 1,500 and 1,000 per mile. This isnt the only proposal Madison fisheries partners are looking at to help trout populations in the river. A proposal to reconnect side channels between Lyons Bridge and Varney Bridge fishing access sites south of Ennis is being considered in 2026 and 2027. Six old side channels were identified for possible restoration to improve spawning and rearing habitat on this upper section. Formed in Yellowstone Park The Madison River is a jewel in the crown of Montanas popular trout streams. Born in Yellowstone National Park, when the Firehole and Gibbon rivers join, it gushes about 180 miles to meet the Jefferson and Gallatin rivers near Three Forks to form the mighty Missouri River. More than 100 years ago, the Madison was altered by dams. First, the Madison Dam was built in 1905 in the narrow canyon below what is now Ennis Lake. Farther upstream, and just below the Yellowstone boundary, Hebgen Dam was finished in 1917. With the two dams in place and mountain snowpack decreasing, the lower Madison has seen less spring runoff. Before the dams, high flows would flush gravel downstream to refresh the spawning beds where fish lay their eggs. The effect has been especially pronounced on a stretch of river just upstream from the Red Mountain Campground along Highway 84, and downstream from the popular Warm Springs fishing access site. This section of river, from Warm Springs to Blacks Ford, tends to see a lot of use from recreational floaters, sometimes referred to as the bikini hatch. Where the island building is proposed has long been one of the better spawning areas in the lower Madison River. Rainbow trout lay their eggs in the spring while brown trout are fall spawners. Good dams or bad dams? Given this situation in the lower Madison, it would be easy to conclude that dismantling the dams would restore stream flows and naturally regenerate spawning gravels, helping wild fish reproduce. But that ignores the extended period of drought that has struck southwest Montana. This is the new normal, Duncan said, noting fisheries biologists in his region are trying all different ways to keep cold water in streams to preserve Montanas famed trout fisheries. These steps include pumping warm water out of the Big Hole and Jefferson rivers for irrigators in exchange for them not using cold water from the Wise River, a tributary to the Big Hole, and Parsons Slough, which enters the Jefferson. So we can kind of rework things and get little gains here and there, Duncan said. Dams like those on the Madison, as well as Clark Canyon Dam on the Beaverhead River, can release cooler water downstream on hot summer days to ensure trout dont overheat. Temperatures above 80 degrees can be lethal. That's why the Madison can maintain the fishery it does and is as resilient as it is, Duncan said. It ebbs and flows, but that upper Madison even on really bad drought years like 2021 is still usually pretty flush with cold water and plenty of it. Other tailwater fisheries, ones below dams, that are thriving include the Missouri River below Holter Dam and the Bighorn River downstream from Yellowtail Dam. So while taking out dams or providing a bypass channel can restore migratory fish passage on rivers like the lower Yellowstone and Clark Fork rivers, it may have a debilitating effect on trout and angling tourism, a multi-million-dollar industry in Montana. Cool water releases Balancing releases from reservoirs to keep rivers flush is no easy task. Fights have long erupted over the management of Yellowtail Dam where lake users felt their needs were being ignored to the benefit of deep-pocketed fly anglers on the Bighorn River. In 2021 when NorthWestern Energy which manages Hebgen and Madison dams miscalculated and the lake was drawn down, resort business owners were livid at the loss of income at the end of summer when docks and boat launches were left high and dry. This year saw flows into Hebgen Lake hit close to a record low, established during the 1930s Dust Bowl era. Flows were so bad Yellowstone Park officials shut down fishing on the Madison and its tributaries in early July due to warming waters. This appears to be an unfortunate trend, as last year the Hebgen inlet saw 42 days of water temperatures hitting 73 degrees or warmer. That matched the lower river near Three Forks, 2,000 feet lower in elevation. With less water flowing into Hebgen Lake, the dams operators were faced with reducing flows in the Madison or not filling up the lake. Gauges that measure river flows show the upper Madison dropping below 400 cubic feet per second in much of June as Northwestern held water back to fill Hebgen Lake. Under its federal license, NorthWestern must keep the lake at an elevation of 6,530.26 feet during the summer, through Oct. 1, but also must ensure the Madison River never gets above 80 degrees by releasing pulses of cold water from its two reservoirs. In 2024, there were 40 calls for pulse flows to cool the stream. On average since 2015, there have been 28 calls each summer for cooler flows. In low water years like this one, the balancing act proves especially difficult. This task could grow more challenging if predictions of climate change continue to prove true. The 2017 Montana Climate Assessment forecast more 90-degree temperatures and fewer days of freezing in the coming decades. Snowpack, as the report noted, is already 20% to 80% lower than in the 1950s. A 2023 study on the economic impacts of a warming climate showed Montana could see a loss of more than 8,800 jobs and $263 million in labor earnings by 2040. How to beat the drought Duncan called the island-building project a pretty big swing that will cost thousands of dollars. A temporary bridge will be constructed to haul gravel to increase the islands size. River Design Group, which has an office in Whitefish, will perform the construction work. NorthWestern Energy, FWP and the Bureau of Land Management are sharing the costs and oversight of the island work. We're going to have to start getting creative and be willing to pursue some bigger projects if we're going to really move the needle with some of these mainstem fisheries, Duncan said. And so this is the first stab at that. Medicines and Prescription: Pause before you pop the pill 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 Ankita Sengupta 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 IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to return to India on this date 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 MC Science Desk Read the latest and trending science newsstay updated on NASA, ISRO, space missions, planets, asteroids, black holes, AI, quantum physics, galaxy discoveries, and more exciting breakthroughs. A Climate Clue from the Past: Its dimensions point to an earlier, warmer, denser ancient climateshedding light on the history of Earth's climate. (Image: AI) Named After a Serpent King: Its name commemorates Vasuki, the great serpent of Hindu mythology. (Image: AI) Slow, Silent Predator: Vasuki used ambush tactics and constrictionnot venomto catch prey like catfish and turtles. (Image: AI) From the Eocene Epoch: This ancient predator lived 56 million years ago, thriving in swampy habitats. (Image: AI) Fossils First Spotted in 2005: Scientists discovered 27 huge vertebrae more than two decades ago, remarkably well-preserved in rock. (Image: Sunil Bajpai/Debajit Datta (fossils); Nix Illustration/CC BY-SA 4.0) Concealed in Gujarat's Ground: The fossil was uncovered deep in Kutch's Panandhro Lignite Mine, entombed under ancient earth layers. (Image: Reuters) Vasuki Indicus Uncovered: Scientists dig up one of Earth's longest snakes, entombed for centuries under Gujarat's ground. (Image: AI) Sheetal Kumari USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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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. 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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 Aabhas Sharma 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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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 Ankita Chakravarti 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 OpenAI has agreed to pay Oracle $30 billion every year, here's why 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 Aabhas Sharma 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 1/12 In the heart of Indias grasslands and arid plains, a singular creature glides across the horizon with quiet nobilitythe blackbuck. With its corkscrew horns and sharply contrasting coat, this antelope is not only a symbol of natural elegance but also a silent guardian of India's vanishing open landscapes. Far from the spotlight reserved for tigers and elephants, the blackbucks presence offers an equally stirring encounter for the patient traveller. These antelopes prefer vast, undisturbed habitatslandscapes where the sky hangs low over sweeping grasslands and the stillness is broken only by the sound of wind and hooves. For those seeking the refined thrill of wildlife observation, the following ten locations in India offer the rare pleasure of seeing blackbuck roam freelyuntethered, wild, and breathtaking. (Image: Canva) 2/12 1. Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, Gujarat Often referred to as the Blackbuck Capital of India, Velavadar is a conservation triumph. The parks uninterrupted golden savannahs play host to hundreds of blackbucks, offering visitors an arresting tableau of natural motion and form. (Image: Canva) 3/12 2. Ranibennur Blackbuck Sanctuary, Karnataka Set amidst the Deccan Plateaus gentle contours, this sanctuary combines grassland with rocky outcrops. The blackbuck population here is healthy and active, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike. (Image: Canva) 4/12 3. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan Perched on the edge of the Thar Desert, Tal Chhapar is a grassland gem where blackbucks co-exist with harriers and desert foxes. Best explored at sunrise, the sanctuary presents some of the most photogenic sightings imaginable. (Image: Canva) 5/12 4. Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh Kunos recent rewilding efforts have brought it into the limelight, but few know it shelters a flourishing blackbuck population. Its mixed habitat of scrub, grassland, and forest edge supports excellent biodiversity. (Image: Canva) 6/12 5. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan Though better known for its tigers, Ranthambore also offers occasional glimpses of blackbuck along its fringes. These sightings, rare and fleeting, lend a touch of the unexpected to a typical safari. (Image: Canva) 7/12 6. Desert National Park, Rajasthan Here, the elegance of the blackbuck stands out against the starkness of shifting dunes and sun-bleached earth. Spotting them amidst such extremes is a poetic reminder of natures quiet resilience. (Image: Canva) 8/12 7. Rehekuri Blackbuck Sanctuary, Maharashtra A compact sanctuary in Ahmednagar, Rehekuri is an offbeat destination where one can observe blackbucks at remarkably close range. The sanctuary's efforts at community-driven conservation deserve wider recognition. (Image: Canva) 9/12 8. Gir National Park, Gujarat While the Asiatic lion is its star attraction, Girs less-explored stretches are home to blackbuck herds. For the keen observer, the park offers a rare dual-sighting possibility in a single days trail. (Image: Canva) 10/12 9. Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu A pocket of preserved grassland in southern India, Vallanadu is a quiet retreat where blackbucks thrive away from tourist crowds. Its peaceful terrain is best suited for those who enjoy solitude and silent tracking. (Image: Canva) 11/12 10. Nannaj Grasslands, Maharashtra Part of the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Nannaj is a lesser-known delight for blackbuck sightings. Its dry, open plains are particularly active during early mornings and post-monsoon months. (Image: Canva) Abhinav Gupta 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. 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I Accept China 'clearly' trying to interfere in Taiwan's democracy, Taipei says before recall vote Sonalee Borgohain 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 Chinas lead-laced lunch scandal: How over 230 children were poisoned and officials tried to bury the truth Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Pragya Trivedi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Rohit Singh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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 India and UK sign free trade agreement tomorrow: Whats in the deal and who benefits most Abhinav Gupta 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 Son reveals 'exact reason' behind Joe Biden's disastrous 2024 debate against Trump: 'They gave him Ambien ...' 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 This is the most unsafe country in the world, according to 2025 Safety Index Deblina Halder USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Trump says China trip likely not too distant as bilateral talks considered Pragya Trivedi 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 Turkey takes hypersonic leap with Tayfun Block-4: Why its 'brotherhood' with Pakistan poses new worry for India Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept US leaves UNESCO, says 'not in national interest': Israel backs move, China criticises Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept JERUSALEM, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese and Israeli scientists have developed a painless wearable device that monitors blood sugar and adjusts diabetes medication in real time, the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion) said Tuesday in a statement. The breakthrough, made with collaboration between Technion and Sun Yat-sen University, a public university in China's Guangzhou, and published in Nature Communications, uses microneedles to track glucose and metformin drug levels under the skin, according to the statement. Unlike finger-prick tests, the patch connects to a smartphone app that analyzes data and provides personalized treatment alerts. Testing showed it matches traditional methods' accuracy while detecting previously missed fluctuations. The system also models how factors like age and weight affect drug response, read the statement. Researchers highlight the new technology's potential to prevent dangerous complications like lactic acidosis by optimizing doses. Initial trials on diabetic mice proved successful, with plans to adapt the technology for heart disease and epilepsy management, read the statement. By Dr. Carrie Jerrell | Jul 23, 2025 Kentucky Poet Laureate Frank X Walker Walker will visit the Janice Mason Art Museum in Cadiz and the Curris Center Ballroom on Murray States campus for a reading and discussion of his literary work MURRAY, Ky. The Janice Mason Art Museum in Cadiz, with support from Genesis Express, will host its next ARTalks Series event with special guest Frank X. Walker on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 5:30 p.m. Walker will return to western Kentucky on Thursday, Sept. 4, for a reading and discussion of his literary work at 7:30 p.m. in the Curris Center Ballroom on Murray States campus. Both events are free and open to the public. Walkers Aug. 16 talk, titled From Word to Image and Back Again, will explore his history as a visual artist and the joys and challenges hes experienced working in both visual and literary art forms. A native of Danville, Kentucky, Frank X. Walker is the first African American writer to have been named Kentucky Poet Laureate. He has published 15 collections of poetry, including Turn Me Loose: The Unghosting of Medgar Evers, which was awarded the 2014 NAACP Image Award for Poetry and the Black Caucus American Library Association Honor Award for Poetry. His most recent work is Load in Nine Times, a collection of historical poetry that gives voice to Black Civil War soldiers. A lover of comics, Walker curated We Wear the Mask: Black Superheroes through the Ages, an exhibit of his personal collection of action figures, comics and related memorabilia at the Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center in Lexington, Kentucky, with subsequent showings at Purdue University and Western Carolina University. He recently returned to the world of visual art with a collection of new and early multimedia works, Black Star Seed: When Mi Cyaan Find Di Words, which was on exhibit at the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning in Lexington. Walker currently serves as professor of English and African American and Africana studies at the University of Kentucky. Walkers event in the ARTalks Series is co-sponsored by Genesis Express, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing supplemental support in the areas of education, culture, health, social and recreation for Trigg County community members of all generations. More information about Genesis Express can be found at www.genesisexpressinc.org. Walkers visit to the region is part of the Clinton and Mary Opal Moore Appalachian Writers Residency, organized through the Department of English and Philosophy at Murray State University and established with gifts from Shirley Moore Menendez, the late John C. Moore, Tom Moore, Nancy Moore Waldrop and Jayne Moore Waldrop in honor of their late parents and their familys eastern Kentucky roots. Clinton Elster Moore (1916-2008) and Mary Opal Moore (1922-2015) were born in eastern Kentucky Pike and Letcher counties, respectively but left the mountains in the early 1950s when they moved to far western Kentucky. They settled in Paducah, where they remained for the rest of their lives, but they always considered Appalachia their home. The Moore Residency was created to strengthen literary connections between Appalachia and western Kentucky while enhancing the creative and professional growth of students in the creative writing program at Murray State. It commemorates the Moores east-to-west journey in hopes of fostering creativity and understanding between two distinct regions in Kentucky connected by the Cumberland River. The Janice Mason Art Museum, located at 71 Main Street in Cadiz, is focused on bringing quality art, in all its forms, to the local community. Programming includes eight to 10 exhibits each year by artists from around the local area, region and the world representing a broad variety of media and genre. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. More information about the ARTalks Series or other museum events can be found at jmam.org, or by contacting the museum at 270-522-9056 or jmam.skit@gmail.com. UPDATE: Governor in stable condition, good spirits; will be transported to Guam for additional medical attention The Town of Tonawanda is getting help from a prominent local lobbying firm to win more state and federal financial support for the towns efforts to revive the former Huntley Generating Station site. The Town Board last week voted to hire Masiello Martucci Hughes and Associates, or MMH, at a cost of $5,000 per month for the next two years, or $120,000 total for the contract through 2027. One board member recused herself because her brother is a partner in the firm, though town officials insist the family connection played no role in the decision to retain MMH. The firm said in its proposal that it would work with state lawmakers and agencies to make sure a $20 million grant the town received for a new industrial water project arrives as soon as possible, and that it would seek additional funding opportunities to pay to clean up the Huntley property and prepare it for redevelopment. Finding a way to bring the Huntley site back to life has been a priority for town officials since 2016, when owner NRG Energy shut down the coal-fired power plant, and the town is engaged in a legal fight with NRG to take control of the property. State budget includes $20 million for Town of Tonawanda industrial water project The town sought state aid to cover the cost of a new system to carry raw water to businesses along the Niagara River that use this resource for their operations. We are about to enter into a critical stage of our Huntley eminent domain project and feel they are the best firm to handle the towns interests on this matter, Tonawanda Supervisor Joseph Emminger said in a statement to The Buffalo News. Town Republicans say they dont know whether pursuing the raw water project, or hiring a lobbying firm to help in that effort, makes financial sense, given the significant tax levy increase that the all-Democratic Town Board approved in the 2025 budget. How much more are the taxpayers going to spend? Town Republican Chair Scott Marciszewski asked in an interview. What are the positive results were going to see after continually putting taxpayer dollars into this effort? Masiello Martucci Hughes is one of Buffalos best-connected lobbying and government affairs firms. Its clients include Erie County Medical Center, Sheas Performing Arts Center, Modern Corporation and the City of Buffalo, Town of Amherst and Erie and Niagara counties. MMH is an ethical, reputable, successful firm that has several municipal clients, town spokesperson Kevin Keenan said in a statement. The firm is led by former Buffalo Mayor Anthony Masiello, a Democrat; veteran Republican operative and staffer Victor Martucci; and Michael P. Hughes, a former longtime Kaleida Health administrator. 'All about jobs': Tonawanda seeks up to $26 million from N.Y. for industrial water project Town officials say it's important for the state to support those companies, which include 3M and Evonik, because they're a major part of Tonawanda's and the region's economy. Hughes, who signed the contract on the firms behalf, did not respond last week to a message seeking comment. Martucci is the brother of Gina Santa Maria, the Town of Tonawandas deputy supervisor. She ran the July 14 Town Board meeting in the absence of Emminger, who was and remains on vacation. When it came time to vote on hiring Masiello Martucci Hughes, she abstained without telling the audience why. The rest of the board voted yes on the resolution. Santa Maria did not reply to a request for comment for this article. After The News contacted her, Keenan provided a response from the town. Councilwoman Santa Maria did the right thing by abstaining from the vote, the statement said. Keenan said it was Emminger who reached out to Masiello Martucci Hughes. The town previously retained Masiello Martucci Hughes, then known by a prior firm name, to get its assistance following the Huntley shutdown in 2016, well before Santa Maria was elected to the board in 2021. At the time, the lobbying firm won support in Albany for a mitigation fund that provided millions of dollars in state aid for the town and the Ken-Ton School District to replace tax revenue lost with the plant closing, town officials said. Emminger, who wasnt available for an interview, said in his statement that Masiello Martucci Hughes is one of several lobbying firms the town has employed in recent years. Professional services contracts, such as those entered into with lobbying firms, are not subject to a request-for-proposal bidding process, the town said. That makes it hard to know whether the agreement protects the interests of taxpayers, Marciszewski said. Was this the best price? he asked. Town officials have grown frustrated over the length of time it has taken to get the Huntley property cleaned up and in the hands of a new developer. The town tried to take over the property through eminent domain, withdrew the filing at NRGs request, then renewed this legal fight when nothing changed. Marc Romanowski, the towns outside counsel, said an appraisal of the propertys value should be completed by September. The town then would make an informal purchase offer to NRG, which would have 60 days to accept or reject the price for the 72 acres the town seeks, Romanowski said. NRG has exhausted its efforts to appeal the towns second eminent domain claim. The dispute could be subject to further litigation, he said, but only over the value of the property not whether the town has the right to take the Huntley site. However, he said he is optimistic that the town can reach a negotiated settlement with NRG. Either way, he said, he expects the town to take the property by the end of the year. The town has had informal contact with developers who may want to revive the Huntley site, but it is waiting for additional information before issuing formal requests for interest, Romanowski said. Its been an ongoing process, he said. Remediation is expected to take years, Romanowski said. A precise timeline wont be known until the town identifies the contaminants left behind, but one obvious concern is the amount of asbestos in the plant. Thats a known challenge for the site, he said. Who will pay for the cleanup is an open question, according to Romanowski, but it could be negotiated as part of an agreement transferring ownership from NRG to the town. MMH was hired to help the town obtain state and federal aid to help pay for this cleanup. The firm proposed assisting Tonawanda officials on strategy and messaging to win support in Albany and Washington, D.C., for public money for the remediation work. The lobbying firm also said it will help get a $20 million grant, included in this years state budget to pay for a water project in Tonawandas industrial corridor, into the towns hands. The town had asked for $26 million to cover the cost of a new system to carry untreated water to businesses along the Niagara River that rely on this resource for their operations. NRG continues to sell raw water to neighboring industries, even after shutting down the plant. The town has sought to find a way to provide raw water to those customers that doesnt rely on Huntley and NRG. A recent study determined it would cost $26 million to upgrade and expand the raw water system. The town previously said it would borrow the remaining $6 million for the project, which awaits the eminent domain takeover and design work before it can begin. The U.S. military legal establishment has big plans to use Gaza as a model for future large scale conflicts, including with China. As Colombian President Petro Gustavo said a The Hague Group Summit: Gaza is an experiment by the mega-rich trying to show all the peoples of the world how to respond to a rebellion of humanity; they plan to bomb us all. No one with any skepticism about Americas war machine and its intentions could have been happy to see this New Yorker headline: And the full article, if anything, is even worse. The piece starts with a portrait of Geoffrey Corn, a law professor at Texas Tech and a former judge advocate general in the U.S. Army where he was the U.S. Armys senior adviser on the laws of war, also known as international humanitarian law (I.H.L.), or the law of armed conflict (LOAC). From there it tells us of a delegation of retired three- and four-star generals, on a trip sponsored by the Jewish Institute for National Security of America that Corn joined which produced a report that found that the I.D.F.s implementation of civilian-risk mitigation reflects a good-faith commitment to comply with the laws of war, whereas Hamas acted as a pervasive and intentional violator of the law. But wait, theres more: This idea, that Israels conduct in Gaza is in line with the U.S. militarys understanding of its own legal obligations, has become the general consensus among American military lawyers and their allies in the academy in recent years. That is the argument at the heart of a new paper by Naz Modirzadeh, a professor at Harvard Law School and the founder of its Program on International Law and Armed Conflict. As Modirzadeh writes, in a forthcoming issue of the Harvard National Security Journal, the U.S. government has been evasive about whether Israel has violated the laws of war. Where some have seen hypocrisy and geopolitical calculation, credit for this should also be given to a deeper transformation within the U.S. military and its legal apparatus. In the past several years, the Department of Defense has become fixated on how the United States might fight a major war against an enemy that rivals the American military in force and technology. In such a scenarioknown as a large-scale combat operation, or L.S.C.O.combat would take place across land, sea, air, and into the thermosphere. Command of the air could not be taken for granted. Intelligence may be spotty. Casualties could soar into the hundreds of thousands, and whole cities could be flattened. In short, Modirzadeh writes, the U.S. military has begun preparing for an all-out war with China. And, with such conflagrations burning in the mind, LSCO lawyers, as Modirzadeh calls them, have been arguing that the laws of war are far more permissive than many of their peers and the public seem to appreciate. From that vantage, Gaza not only looks like a dress rehearsal for the kind of combat U.S. soldiers may face. It is a test of the American publics tolerance for the levels of death and destruction that such kinds of warfare entail. Well, that certainly opens up a world of possibilities, doesnt it. And if you think theres no possible comparison between the IDFs conflict with Hamas and the civilian population of Gaza and a potential war between the United States and China, you probably havent read China after Communism: Preparing for a Post-CCP China a new policy blueprint from The Hudson Institute. Its certainly an exercise in wishful thinking thats shocking in its malevolence and disconnection from reality. From the executive summary: While the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has weathered crises before, a sudden regime collapse in China is not entirely unthinkable. Policymakers need to consider what might happen and what steps they would have to take if the worlds longest-ruling Communist dictatorship and second-largest economy collapses due to its domestic and international troubles. With chapters written by experts in military affairs, intelligence, economics, human rights, transitional justice, and constitutional governance, this report examines the initial steps that should be taken in the immediate aftermath of the CCP regimes collapse and the long-term trajectory China might take after a stabilization period. Drawing on historical analysis, strategic foresight, and domain-specific expertise, this anthology describes these challenges as an exercise in possibilities. The different chapters explore how a single-party system collapses in key sectors of the country and how political institutions transform, as well as Chinas unique political, economic, and social situation. Taken together, they assess the daunting tasks of stabilizing a long-repressed country after it has collapsed, in addition to the forces shaping Chinas future. In so doing, the authors hope to offer policy recommendations for managing the risks and opportunities of a transition. China resident Arnaud Bertrand has a more concise summary of the report: which provides detailed operational plans for inducing Chinese regime collapse through systematic information operations, financial warfare, and covert influence campaigns, followed by detailed protocols for U.S. post-collapse management including military occupation, territorial reorganization, and the installation of a political and cultural system vassalized to the U.S. Bertrand, a French CEO who currently lives in China is admittedly a relentless booster of the CCCP, but that doesnt mean hes wrong when he points out that the report: reveals so much about the diseased soul of the American empire and some of the key reasons behind its decline the comical detachment from reality, the inability to learn from past failures, the zero-sum worldview, the denial of agency in others and, more than anything else, the fact that this report screams of desperation. Theres a common pattern well known to political sociologists: when groups face existential threats to their status and identity, they often exhibit compensatory extremism becoming caricatured versions of themselves as a defense against irrelevance. It was for instance famously the case with the Southern Confederacy prior to the American civil war, which responded to growing abolitionist pressure by becoming more fanatically committed to slavery and Southern honor than it had ever been before. This Hudson Institute report reads a bit like this: witnessing the end of American primacy, some in the imperial establishment are transforming into a grotesque caricature of themselves, taking every toxic aspect of U.S. foreign policy and amplifying them to absurd extremes, becoming more imperially ambitious and delusional than ever before, planning interventions of unprecedented scope and audacity as if doubling down on their worst impulses could somehow restore their fading dominance. As such, this report shouldnt be read as an actual blueprint for policy its analysis of China is so wildly detached from reality as to be completely worthless. Instead, it should be read as an anthropological specimen, a fascinating window into the fever dreams and neuroses of a dying empire, where the compensatory extremism strips away all pretense and reveals what American hegemony has always really been about just as the Confederacys fanatical doubling down on slavery exposed the moral rot that had always defined the system. Perhaps thats why Americas global standing has eroded so badly in recent years, per a recent survey of 111,273 people in 100 countries by the Alliance of Democracies Foundation. And as Yves posted this week, Americas allies in the Pacific, Japan and Australia are anything but enthusiastic about joining the U.S. in a war on China. But never fear, the RAND Corp. says, The Peoples Liberation Army remains focused on upholding Chinese Communist Party rule, not preparing for war. Ok, so even CNN was able to find that other experts scoffed at (RANDs) conclusions. Perhaps that was because RAND used Russia vs. Ukraine as an example of an army failing to effectively use its advanced armaments in battle. Or perhaps the seeming blindness of American military thought leaders has more to do with the personal profit motive than with an actual strategic assessment of the situation. As United Nations special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese said when her report From economy of occupation to economy of genocide, with Chris Hedges, The genocide in Gaza has not stopped, because it is lucrative. Its profitable for far too many. Jonathan Cook wraps it all up: The stakes in Gaza are high for western governments precisely because they are so high for the business world growing fat on Israels genocide. Governments and corporations have an overwhelming shared interest in protecting Israel from scrutiny and criticism: it serves as their colonial attack dog in the oil-rich Middle East, and it acts as a cash-cow for the weapons, surveillance and incarceration industries. Israels indispensability to the corporate sector and a captured western political class extends far beyond tiny Gaza. Israel is playing an outsize role as a war-industries incubator on a global battlefield in which the West seeks to ensure its continuing military and economic primacy over China. Last month the global business elite comprising tech billionaires and corporate titans, joined by political leaders, media editors, and military and intelligence officials met once again at the publicity-shy Bilderberg summit, this year hosted in Stockholm. Prominent were the CEOs of major defence suppliers and arms manufacturers such as Palantir, Thales, Helsing, Anduril and Saab. Drone warfare being used in innovative ways by key military clients like Israel and Ukraine was high on the agenda. The greater integration of AI into drones appears to have been a mainstay of the discussions. The subtext this year, as in recent years, was a supposed rising threat from China and an associated authoritarian axis comprising Russia, Iran and North Korea. This threat is seen chiefly in economic and technological terms. In May, Eric Schmidt, the former head of Google and a Bilderberg board member, wrote with alarm in the New York Times: China is at parity or pulling ahead of the United States in a variety of technologies, notably at the AI frontier. He added that the West was in a race against China over the imminent development of super-intelligent AI, which would give the winner the keys to control the entire world. Israels slaughter in Gaza is seen as playing a critical role in opening up the battlescape. The same corporations cashing in on the Gaza genocide stand to benefit from the more permissive environment legally and militarily created by Israel for future wars, ones where massacred civilians count only as incidental deaths. the genocidal violence being unleashed by Israel is opening up the legal maneuver space the space needed to commit crimes against humanity in full view. This is where much of the impulse comes from in western capitals to normalise the genocide present it as business as usual and demonise its opponents. The arms makers and tech companies whose coffers have been swollen by Israels genocide in Gaza stand to make far greater riches from a similarly devastating war against China. Whatever the script we are sold, there will be nothing moral or existential about this coming battle. As ever, it will be about rich people keen to get even richer. Ah ok, as Navin Johnson said, its a profit deal, suddenly it all makes sense. Yves here. While this article is accurate in defining a path that the Democrats could take to shore up their fading popularity, author Sean Mason does not appear to sufficiently appreciate that the Democrats decided to throw the working class over the side decades ago. One can point to different turning points, some in the 1960s (with the new found enthusiasm for the growth of well educated professionals), the 1980s, or at the very latest, Bill Clinton, who repeatedly threw lower-income voters under the bus, with measures like ending welfare as we know it, and his crime bill that intensified US mass incarceration. Let us also not forget that we have the great American heroine, Monica Lewinsky, to thank for Clinton not being able to pursue Social Security reform due to the scandal over his affair with her putting his Administration on the back foot. Admittedly, the press and punditocracy have done a good job of selling the bogus idea that better social safety nets and labor protections are not winners with voters. As reader Richard Kline wrote in 2012 in Progressively Losing: lets dispense with several basic misconceptions regarding why progressives are presently so unsuccessful. Progressive goals are not popular. Even with the systematically distorted polling data of the present, this is demonstrably untrue. Inexpensive health care, progressive taxation, educational scholarship funding, curtailment of foreign wars, environmental protection among others never fail to command majority support. It is difficult to think of a major progressive policy which commands less than a plurality. This situation is one reason for the lazy reliance upon electioneering by progressives, they know that their issues are popular, in principle at least. Rather childishly, they just want a show of hands then, as if that is what goes on really in elections America is a conservative society. That is demonstrably untrue on any historical analysis. Like the other points here, it is a meme invented and spread by the right wing itself. There are three grains of truth in the contention, however. More than some West European derived socio-cultures, there is an initial value placed in Christian profession; not faith, profession, and not an enduring one either.This makes the society seem from the outside more Christian, and hence conservative, than it is in fact. This has for the majority become the civil religion of Bellah, but is in effect a secularized form of Christian pilgrimism; one must profess to belong. Second, there are specific communities in American culture which are deeply conservative, notably most rural whites. Their society is in fact distinct from the culture of the county as a whole, something they understand but that the majority chooses not to. (This concept is argued, if slightly differently, by David Hackett Fischer in Albions Seed, an analysis I endorse and would extend.) The point being that their society in America is conservative, but American society as a whole is liberal if one does a sociological analysis. Third, American society is not radical because it is deeply suspicious of combinations, cabals, cliques, or factions who combine to advance their own interests as distinct from the broader public interest. There are deep socio-historical roots for this antipathy to faction, but they are real. One consequence of this, though, is that American society as a whole has generally been hostile to organized labor as a special interest. American society also has a bedrock attachment to personal property and personal libertyessential liberal values, one might add, not conservative oneswhich impede any advocacy of leveling or uniformitariansim; i.e. liberty always trumps equality. The flip side here, though, is that Americans are just as suspicious of sections, trusts, banksters, and oligarchs if they see them as an organized, self-interested force. This distrust is not a conservative preference. An issue for those seeking economic justice, as Sanders presidential bids and now the Mamdani mayoral campaign attest, is that a policy program that is genuinely soft s socialist, as in old-style European democratic socialist, elicits extremely aggressive pushback from the moneyed classes, not just the billionaires who have come to dominate political donations, but also the so-called professional managerial class which has become a strong, arguably a driving force, in the Democratic party. Perhaps I am lacking in imagination, but I dont see how Team Dem can hang on to most of its upper income, 1% and 0.1% voters and seriously push for policies that will make a big difference to the working class. Yawning income inequality had greatly widened the gap between their interests. The central role of money in politics means the Democrats wont abandon their established donors. However, what this article points to is more concerted efforts to promise things they wont deliver. It was a winning strategy historically. It worked for Trump. So expect an effort to craft a new improved version of tired, pandering policies. By Sean Mason, a data scientist and research associate at the Center for Working-Class Politics. His research focuses on analyzing large datasets to understand the appeal of progressive economic policies across demographic groups. Originally published at Common Dreams The Democratic Party has significant work to do if it hopes to bounce back from its 2024 electoral defeat. Making inroads with the working class is the only way possible, and a new report from the Center for Working-Class Politics and Jacobin shows that economic populism is the best path to bring them back into the party. The Democratic Party lost big in 2024, badly enough to raise the question: Where are the votes they need to win going to come from now, especially in purple states and districts? Major demographic groups, some of which were mainstays of the Democratic Party in the past, swung to the GOP, especially Latino men and even a significant number of Black men. By the time of the 2024 election, the Democratic Party had firmly committed to its strategy of appealing to suburban moderates at the cost of blue-collar voters. Back in 2016, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) famously said, For every blue-collar Democrat we lose in western Pennsylvania, we will pick up two moderate Republicans in the suburbs in Philadelphia, and you can repeat that in Ohio and Illinois and Wisconsin. Fast forward to 2025 and the Democratic Partys options for remaining competitive in swing districts seem more limited than ever. Is it too late for the party to turn back to the blue-collar voters it left behind years ago? Even more surprising, support for a millionaires taxpart of Mamdanis campaign but not his challenger Andrew Cuomoswas 44% among working-class 2020 Trump voters. Our new report, which analyzes responses to 128 survey questions from gold standard academic surveys, finds that championing progressive economic policies can reverse the exodus of blue-collar voters from the party. It can also help us understand why those policies resonate most with working class voters. Two key findings prove the potential of leaning more heavily into economic populism. First, contrary to what many might expect, the working class has become both more progressive on economic issues and less conservative on social issues in recent decades. From abortion and gun control to gay rights and views on racial inequality, the working class today is, if anything, more progressive than the working class that helped elect Barack Obama in 2008. What keeps this leftward shift from being a common part of narratives that describe the working class, however, is that the upper and middle classes have moved left at an even faster rate over the same time period, making it seem like working class voters have become more conservative over that time. Second, relative to the middle and upper classes, economic populist policies resonate more with working-class voters, while socially progressive policies resonate less. While our first finding means that the working class is still within reach of the Democratic Party, the second makes clear that campaigns centered on economically progressive policies maximize their chances of winning working-class votes. Our report shows the overwhelming popularity of a host of economic populist policies. Increasing the minimum wage, increasing government spending on healthcare and social security, protecting jobs with import limits, and spending more on the poor are all examples of policies that we found resonate with an overwhelming majority of the working class. Our analysis challenges oft-repeated stereotypes about the supposed conservative drift of the working-class. For example, there are many who seem certain that the economic policies that helped propel Zohran Mamdani to victory in New York Citys recent Democratic mayoral primary would be disastrous outside of the citys liberal bubble. That conventional wisdom doesnt hold up in polling. For example, we found that about 1 out of every 5 working-class people who voted for President Donald Trump in 2020 also favored a four-policy package that included increasing income taxes on million-dollar-per-year earners, federal spending on public schools, federal spending on social security, and the federal minimum wage. Even more surprising, support for a millionaires taxpart of Mamdanis campaign but not his challenger Andrew Cuomoswas 44% among working-class 2020 Trump voters. This is only one example, but weve identified quite a few ways Democrats can appeal to working-class voters without sacrificing a strong economic program. Our analysis shows that winning back working class votes from the GOP is still possible. And doing so does not require abandoning the bedrock principles of the Democratic Party by championing regressive social policies. It does, however, require leading with bread-and-butter economic policies that are overwhelmingly popular with working-class voters. The potential for the Democratic party to win back the support it needs to turn the tide on Trumpism is clear from our report. Lets hope the Democrats pay attention. POOP CEMETERY: Bill Gates DEMANDS all humans STOP POOPING or bury it to save Earth from Suns ever-increasing heat Microsoft has launched one of its most unconventional environmental initiatives yetinvesting in the underground storage of human and agricultural waste to curb its massive carbon footprint . As the company races to meet its goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030, it has partnered with a firm called Vaulted Deep, which specializes in a technology that injects bio-slurrysludgy, contaminated organic wastethousands of feet underground for permanent carbon removal. Microsoft backs underground waste storage to fight emissions : To combat its rising carbon footprintespecially from its energy-hungry AI data centersMicrosoft is investing in unconventional carbon removal methods, including injecting human and farm waste thousands of feet underground through a process developed by Vaulted Deep. : To combat its rising carbon footprintespecially from its energy-hungry AI data centersMicrosoft is investing in unconventional carbon removal methods, including injecting human and farm waste thousands of feet underground through a process developed by Vaulted Deep. Bio-slurry as carbon offset solution : Vaulted Deep collects bio-slurrya mix of human sewage, manure, and industrial sludgeand grinds it before pumping it 5,000 feet underground. The goal is to permanently sequester the carbon and methane these waste materials would otherwise emit into the atmosphere. : Vaulted Deep collects bio-slurrya mix of human sewage, manure, and industrial sludgeand grinds it before pumping it 5,000 feet underground. The goal is to permanently sequester the carbon and methane these waste materials would otherwise emit into the atmosphere. Ambitious climate goals amid surging emissions : Microsoft aims to be carbon negative by 2030 and to remove more greenhouse gases than it has emitted in its entire history by 2050. Between 2020 and 2024, the company emitted 75.5 million tons of CO? equivalent. : Microsoft aims to be carbon negative by 2030 and to remove more greenhouse gases than it has emitted in its entire history by 2050. Between 2020 and 2024, the company emitted 75.5 million tons of CO? equivalent. Controversial and creative climate strategies: In addition to waste burial, Microsoft is exploring other carbon-offsetting projects such as regrowing rainforests in Panama and burying emissions from trash incineration under the North Sea, reflecting a high-stakes effort to reconcile its green promises with its growing AI infrastructure. Poop coffins? Psychotic billionaire tech giant invests in underground human waste storage to supposedly "offset carbon footprint" This radical effort is in response to Microsofts surging greenhouse gas emissions, largely fueled by its rapidly expanding network of AI data centers, which require enormous amounts of electricity. From 2020 to 2024, Microsoft emitted more than 75 million metric tons of CO? equivalents. In order to reverse that trajectory, the company is banking on innovative carbon removal solutions that go beyond traditional offsets. Vaulted Deeps method involves collecting waste such as human sewage, livestock manure, and industrial sludge, then grinding it into a thick slurry before pumping it about 5,000 feet beneath the Earths surface. The concept is that, once sealed deep underground, this bio-slurry will no longer release carbon dioxide or methane into the atmosphere, two key greenhouse gases responsible for global warming. By preventing these emissions, Microsoft can earn carbon removal creditseach ton of carbon stored equaling one credit. Microsoft has committed to purchasing 4.9 million metric tons of durable carbon dioxide removal from Vaulted Deep over the next 12 years, beginning in 2026. This is part of a broader portfolio of emerging carbon removal technologies the tech giant is funding. Other ventures include regrowing tropical rainforests in Panama and capturing emissions from waste incineration in Norway to bury under the North Sea in repurposed oil wells. Vaulted Deep CEO Julia Reichelstein describes the technology as a practical way to solve two environmental challenges at once: disposing of problematic organic waste and removing atmospheric carbon. Many waste types used in this process are typically dumped on land or spread on farms, practices that can cause nutrient runoff and leach hazardous chemicals, such as PFAS, into groundwater. Though the idea of storing human waste underground may seem offbeat or even unsettling, proponents argue it's an effective and scalable strategy for long-term carbon removal. Critics, however, question the transparency, long-term safety, and ethics of such solutions, especially given the growing reliance on offset-based climate accounting instead of directly reducing emissions. Microsofts bold waste-to-carbon-credit investment underscores the scale of the tech industrys climate challenge and the increasingly unconventional tactics being explored to meet sustainability pledges. As the company ramps up its energy consumption to support AI development, it appears ready to go to great depthsliterallyto clean up its carbon legacy. Whether this poop-powered plan becomes a model or a misstep remains to be seen. Check out ClimateAlarmism.news for updates on psychotic billionaires like Bill Gates pretending like the earth is going to boil next year so they can take all our money and control us, while telling us to stop pooping in order to save the planet, along with the cows. Sources for this article include: ClimateDepot.com WSJ.com 1 WSJ.com 2 U.S. hotels ramp up background checks amid immigration crackdown, industry data shows Hotel hiring managers increased background check requests by 36 percent in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to Hireology, amid intensified federal immigration enforcement. The DHS reversed previous guidance in June, allowing ICE to resume workplace raids at farms, hotels and restaurants, sparking a wave of enforcement actions nationwide. Despite a 22 percent overall hiring increase across 1,000 hotel properties, frontline roles like housekeepers and cooks, heavily filled by immigrant workers, saw stagnant or minimal growth. Business leaders warn that the crackdown is worsening labor shortages in sectors dependent on foreign-born workers; 34 percent of housekeepers and 24 percent of cooks are immigrants, according to federal data. Under pressure to meet arrest targets, ICE has expanded operations, prompting both industry backlash and acknowledgment from President Donald Trump, who insists on deporting undocumented immigrants while attempting to shield certain industries. U.S. hotel hiring managers have dramatically increased background checks in the first half of 2025 due to mounting pressure on the hospitality industry as federal immigration enforcement intensifies. According to new data released by human resources platform Hireology, background check requests from hotel employers jumped 36 percent from January through June 2025 compared with the same period last year. In 2024, hotels directly employed more than 2.15 million people, according to the American Hotel and Lodging Association. This year, total hires across 1,000 hotel properties tracked by Hireology increased by 22 percent to over 8,000 workers, but growth in key roles such as front desk associates, housekeepers and cooks remained flat or saw only modest gains. The stagnation in hiring for these frontline positions is notable, as many of these jobs are disproportionately filled by foreign-born workers. Census Bureau and Tourism Economics data show that 34 percent of housekeepers and 24 percent of cooks are immigrants. "Companies are certainly far more cognizant of that than they've ever been, and they don't want to be caught up in or be accused of lax hiring practices when it comes to verification of immigration status," said Patrick Scholes, a Truist hotel equity analyst. (Related: Trump calls for FEMA to be abolished after agency blows $59 million on luxury hotels for migrants.) ICE raids trigger spike in hotel background checks The ramping up on background checks comes amid a new wave of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and heightened immigration enforcement under the second term of President Donald Trump. In June, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it would no longer uphold prior restrictions that discouraged ICE from conducting workplace raids at sites such as farms, hotels and restaurants. Agency officials instructed teams to resume worksite enforcement operations immediately. "Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard public safety, national security and economic stability," DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in June. "These operations target illegal employment networks that undermine American workers, destabilize labor markets and expose critical infrastructure to exploitation." ICE has since carried out operations at a construction company in Exeter, Pennsylvania, multiple sites in Brownsville, Texas, and a federally funded flood control project in New Orleans. Around 40 individuals were arrested last month in sweeps across Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, two wealthy Massachusetts vacation spots. Business leaders, particularly in agriculture and hospitality, argued that the crackdown is removing essential workers from jobs that are already difficult to fill. Trump acknowledged the complaints. "Our great Farmers and people in the Hotel and Leisure business have been stating that our very aggressive policy on immigration is taking very good, long time workers away from them, with those jobs being almost impossible to replace," the persident posted on his Truth Social platform. "We must protect our Farmers, but get the CRIMINALS OUT OF THE USA. Changes are coming!" Head over to InvasionUSA.news for related stories. Watch as illegal immigrants protest in New York for being forced to move locations. This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Huge! US Army manning NYC illegal 'migrant' hotels in direct violation of Posse Comitatus Act. FEMA spends $59M on luxury hotels for illegal immigrants as disaster victims suffer. Illegal immigrants in New York City are leaving their shelters to go door-to-door begging for money and food. Sources include: Reuters.com CNN.com Brighteon.com DNI Gabbard: Obama administration officials engaged in treasonous conspiracy Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard released over 100 pages of declassified documents, claiming they reveal a coordinated Obama-era effort to manipulate intelligence and undermine Donald Trump's presidency, calling it a "treasonous conspiracy." Gabbard cites a December 2016 intelligence report stating Russia did not impact election results, which she alleges was replaced with a revised January 2017 assessment influenced by the discredited Steele Dossier while sidelining dissenting views. Democrats sharply criticized Gabbard's claims as politically motivated, referencing Republican-led Senate reports confirming Russian influence operations (such as social media manipulation) without evidence of vote tampering. Gabbard urged the DOJ to investigate Obama-era officials including John Brennan and James Comey for their alleged roles in the conspiracy, vowing full transparency for accountability. The release reignites debate over 2016 election interference, polarizing opinions further amid calls for investigations, with the outcome hinging on whether findings withstand bipartisan scrutiny. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard has released a trove of declassified documents which, according to her, provide "overwhelming evidence" of a coordinated effort by the Obama administration to manipulate intelligence and undermine President Donald Trump's first term. Gabbard unveiled more than 100 pages of emails, memos and internal communications demonstrating a deliberate attempt by senior Obama-era officials to politicize intelligence and initiate the multi-year Trump-Russia collusion investigation. She described the actions as "a treasonous conspiracy to subvert the will of the American people." (Related: Mark Levin: Trump-Russia collusion hoax 'executed by the Obama administration'.) One of the key pieces of evidence is a draft President's Daily Brief dated Dec. 8, 2016, which stated that Russia "did not impact recent U.S. election results" through cyberattacks. This report, prepared by several U.S. intelligence agencies, found no evidence of voting interference. However, Gabbard said this document was suppressed and replaced with a new intelligence assessment released on Jan. 6, 2017, which claimed Russia had intervened in the election to help Trump. The revised assessment relied heavily on the discredited Steele Dossier and sidelined dissenting views within the intelligence community. "This was not intelligence gathering," she stated. "It was narrative building." The DNI forwarded the documents to the Department of Justice (DOJ). Gabbard likewise urged investigations into former Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan and former Federal Bureau of Investigation Director James Comey. Democrats dismiss DNI's accusation Democrats have vehemently pushed back against Gabbard's claims. Rep. Jim Hines (D-CT), ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, dismissed the DNI's accusation of treason as "baseless." He pointed to a report by the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee which concluded that Russia conducted probing operations of election systems and conducted influence operations to change public opinion. However, the GOP report found no evidence that Moscow's hackers attempted to change votes. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), ranking member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, criticized Gabbard's report. According to him, it compared two different things: Russian attempts to hack into voting systems and Russian influence operations meant to sway public opinion. "This is one more example of the director of national intelligence trying to cook the books," Warner said. The DOJ declined to comment on Gabbard's statements. Meanwhile, the Obama-era officials named in the report have not yet responded to requests for comment. Her release of the documents implicating the Obama administration has reignited the debate over the 2016 election and the role of intelligence in shaping public perception. As the political fallout continues, the question remains: Will these allegations lead to a deeper understanding of the events of 2016, or will they further polarize an already divided nation? Follow Conspiracy.news for more news about conspiracies against President Trump. Watch this clip of incumbent CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirming that the Obama administration commanded the Deep State coup against President Trump, beginning in 2016. This video is from the Oldyoti's Home Page channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Tulsi Gabbard warns: Weaponized government poses existential threat to democracy. ITS OFFICIAL: All J6 charges against Trump to be DROPPED, as requested by Special Counsel Jack Smith. The complete timeline of FBI/Obama/Comey/Clinton collusion and treason against Trump. Sources include: RT.com NYTimes.com POLITICO.com Brighteon.com Health Ranger Report: Tax law experts explain why the income tax needs to be ABOLISHED Peymon Mottahedeh of the Freedom Law School and ex-IRS agent Joe Banister argue the income tax is unconstitutional and illegitimate, citing no legal requirement for citizens of the 50 states to file. Mottahedeh hasn't paid taxes in 30+ years without IRS repercussions. The 1913 Federal Reserve Act and income tax symbiotically trap Americans in debt servitude. Banister reveals the tax's true purpose: Funding government debt, not public services. The IRS is accused of using complex laws and unlawful leaks (e.g., targeting political enemies) to instill fear and suppress resistance, calling it "financial terrorism." President Donald Trump's proposed income tax elimination could spark economic revival. Mottahedeh's Restore Freedom Plan crowdsources legal challenges to dismantle the system without bankrupting participants. Banister urges grassroots mobilization rooted in faith and community to end the tax, while Mottahedeh emphasizes educating Americans to reclaim liberty and hold government accountable. Tax law experts Peymon Mottahedeh and Joe Banister sat down with the Health Ranger Mike Adams to discuss the broader issues surrounding the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the American tax system at large. The conversation came on the heels of President Donald Trump's announcement to potentially eliminate the federal personal income tax. Mottahedeh kicked off the discussion by expressing his support for Trump's proposal. The founder and president of the Freedom Law School highlighted the corruption and illegitimacy of the current tax system. "The whole income tax system has been a scam on the American people because no law has ever required the people of the 50 states to file income taxes," Mottahedeh stated. His bold claim is backed by personal experience. Mottahedeh hasn't filed or paid income taxes for over 30 years, yet he remains unscathed by the IRS. Banister, formerly a decorated special agent of the IRS's Criminal Investigation Division, echoed Mottahedeh's sentiments. He recounted his awakening to the truth about the income tax and the Federal Reserve during his tenure at the IRS. The Federal Reserve and income tax were both established in 1913. The income tax was designed to service the debt created by the Federal Reserve, essentially making it a tool for the government to coerce citizens into funding its operations. (Related: Experts Joe Bannister and Peymon Join Mike Adams to reveal the Scam behind the Federal Income Tax System.) Adams challenged the conventional narrative that income taxes are necessary to fund government spending. He argued that the government can simply print money to cover its expenses, rendering the income tax unnecessary. Banister agreed, explaining that the government has other means of generating revenue. Tariffs, which were the primary source of funding for the federal government in the 19th century, are one example of the government's other revenue-generating policies. Mottahedeh further argued that the income tax is not only unnecessary, but also unconstitutional. He believes that the federal government has overstepped its bounds, becoming a bloated entity that siphons resources from hardworking Americans. He cited examples of government waste, such as the Department of Defense's inability to account for trillions of dollars and the revelation that only six percent of federal employees work a full 40-hour week. The conversation takes a darker turn as the panelists discussed the IRS's role as a tool of control and fear. Mottahedeh described the IRS as a corrupt system designed to enslave Americans, deterring them from standing up for their rights. He recounted instances where IRS agents have illegally leaked private tax information to the media, targeting political enemies. According to Banister, the complexity of the tax code and the IRS's often unlawful tactics create a climate of fear and ignorance among taxpayers. He believes the income tax system is a form of terrorism, paralyzing Americans with fear and preventing them from understanding their rights. The path to freedom: Ending the income tax Adams asked about the benefits of eliminating the federal income tax. Banister envisions a rejuvenated America, free from the fear and burden of the IRS. He believes the income tax system is a relic of the past, a remnant of a bygone era that no longer serves the interests of the American people. Mottahedeh offered a practical solution through his program, the Restore Freedom Plan. The program encourages Americans to unite and legally challenge the income tax system. He proposed a fund where participants contribute to support litigation efforts, ensuring that no one faces financial ruin for resisting the IRS. Mottahedeh emphasized that his motivation is not financial gain, but a desire to restore freedom and justice to America. As the interview concluded, Banister urged Americans to seize the opportunity presented by Trump's presidency. He called for a collective effort to end the income tax, emphasizing the importance of caring for one's neighbors and standing up for freedom. He believes embracing a mindset of service and sacrifice is crucial for achieving this goal. Mottahedeh echoed Banister's sentiments, expressing his hope that ending the income tax will be a significant step towards restoring America's founding principles. He encouraged Americans to educate themselves and take action, reminding them that the fight for freedom is a noble and worthwhile endeavor. Watch the full interview featuring Joe Banister, Peymon Mottahedeh and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Freedom Law School founder tells Dr. Lee Merritt: American people have been duped and deceived into becoming slaves Brighteon.TV. Big Banks shift the burden of losses to taxpayers through the Federal Reserve in the form of BAILOUTS. DOGE targets IRS in sweeping government efficiency push. Sources include: Brighteon.com FreedomLawSchool.org AgentForTruth.com Climbing CO? levels fuel agricultural triumphand spark a climate debate Rising CO? has supercharged global plant growth, boosting fruit yields and resilience to cold. Historical evidence shows temperature fluctuations linked to solar activity, not human emissions. IPCC climate claims face skepticism over flawed data and biased research selection. Trillions in global climate spending could be misdirected without measurable cooling. Scientists argue CO?s role in warming is overstated, with plants thriving under higher concentrations. Soaring carbon dioxide emissions, long branded as planetary poison, have paradoxically fueled a global greening of Earths vegetated areasand made fruit crops hardier. The findings, analyzed alongside climate skepticism, reveal a scientific and political divide reshaping the climate change discourse. Crops are booming A groundbreaking study in Nature Climate Change revealed that up to half of Earths vegetated land has greened since 1982, with CO? fertilization driving 70% of the change. This greening equates to an area twice the size of the United States, transforming landscapes from North Carolina strawberry fields to Icelands barren highlands. Rising CO? levels act as a carbon fertilizer, supercharging photosynthesis in plants. In greenhouses, tomato yields jump 80% when CO? reaches 1,000 ppma level far above todays 430 ppmand strawberries gain extra sugars. Even space exploration benefits: elevated CO? boosts vitamin content in lettuce grown in simulated Martian conditions. But the gains arent just in labs. Global warming itself aids agriculture. Extended growing seasons cut frost risks for orchards, with U.S. yields benefiting from a two-week longer growing period since the 1910s. Vulnerable crops like grapes and blueberries, which once perished in unseasonal freezes, now survive warmer springs. The long cold shadow of the Little Ice Age Historical context underscores crops fragility to cold. During the 550-year Little Ice Age (13001850), record-low temperatures strangled agriculture. Icelands farms collapsed, Chinas century-old orange groves vanished in Jiangxi Province, and apple trees in temperate zones struggled with erratic blooms. CO? didnt reverse the Little Ice Agebut human emissions since the 19th century have risen from just 280 ppm, aligning with Earths gradual recovery, said Dr. Patrick Moore, referencing his 2018 analysis. Plants we thought lost to cold are back, and theyre thriving thanks to CO? and warmth. This natural warming cycle, say skeptics, should be balanced against climate policies focused solely on curbing emissions. Why panic over a 0.05C cooling by 2050 if it costs $10 trillion? argues climate scientist Andrew Montford. Plants wont miss the CO?human prosperity might. Sunspot cycles, not CO?, control the thermostat Climate skeptics contend the temperature-CO? link is backwards. Solar activity, not fossil fuels, drives Earths climate cycles. Ice age and interglacial shifts stem from the suns fluctuating irradiance hitting critical latitudesa factor Harvard paleoclimatologist Martin-proxy Clark calls celestial climate steering. Peer-reviewed research by geologist William Jackson (2017) found no causal tie between historical temperature swings and CO? levels. During the 425-million-year record, CO? peaks often followed warming, lagging by centuries. CO? doesnt cause the temperatureits just along for the ride, added climatologist Edwin Berry. The IPCCs assertion that 70 ppm of todays CO? rise stems solely from humanity is garbage, said Berry, citing flawed carbon cycle models. Nature adjusts CO? flows automatically through oceans, soils and plantsa feedback loop humans cant control with energy taxes. Trillions spent, little to show: The cost of climate anxiety The fight against CO? carries staggering stakes. The U.N. estimates rich nations must spend 2,000 annually per person by 2030 to meet climate goals 5.5 trillion globallywhile lower-income regions brace for $330+ billion annually. Yet a 2023 analysis by The Epoch Times found U.S. energy costs have already surged 50% in renewables-first states like California, where wildfires accelerated by costly green energy gaps now burn forests annually. Advocates counter that foundering policies are sacrifices for the planets survival. But skeptics see a missed opportunity. Dumping $1 trillion yearly into fake solar farms wont stop Floridas hurricanes, said energy analyst Philip Blad. Lets invest in floodproofing Miami instead of hiding from shadowy climate chaos. A balanced future: Science over soundbites The debate centers on priorities. Proponents of urgent decarbonization cite vanishing islands and species. Skeptics highlight thriving agriculture and flawed modelsIowa corn yields hit record highs as CO? rises. Were not against climate sciencejust alarmism, said Dr. Jayaraj of the CO? Coalition. If we stop obsessing over CO?, maybe well fund drought-resistant crops for Sub-Saharan farmers or upgrade levees in Jakarta. As solar cycles shift and CO? levels climb, the climate debate rages onone Wisconsin orchard at a time. Sources for this article include: WattsUpWithThat.com AmGreatness.com TheEpochTimes.com Israeli tanks enter Deir al-Balah: A new phase in the Gaza conflict On July 21, Israeli tanks entered the southern and eastern districts of Deir al-Balah in Gaza, marking the first ground offensive in this area since the war began in October 2023. This move is driven by the belief that hostages may be held in these districts by Hamas. Deir al-Balah, already strained by the displacement of hundreds of Palestinians, has become a focal point of the conflict. The Israeli military's evacuation order has forced thousands to flee, worsening the humanitarian situation. The incursion has led to casualties, with at least three Palestinians killed and several wounded, as well as damage to critical infrastructure like houses and mosques. The WHO reported attacks on its facilities in Deir al-Balah, resulting in the detention of staff members and their families. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that at least 130 Palestinians were killed and over 1,000 wounded in the past 24 hours, one of the highest death tolls in recent weeks. The crisis is compounded by a growing hunger crisis, with at least 19 people dying from starvation. The international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire as the situation deteriorates. Talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt, with U.S. backing, are ongoing, but the escalating violence poses significant challenges. In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli tanks rolled into the southern and eastern districts of Deir al-Balah in Gaza on Monday, July 21. The move marks the first time such a ground offensive has targeted this area since the war began in October 2023. It comes as Israeli military officials believe that hostages, potentially still alive, may be held captive in these districts by the militant group Hamas. Deir al-Balah, a city already overwhelmed by the displacement of hundreds of Palestinians due to the 21-month conflict, has become a focal point of the Israeli military campaign. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued an evacuation order for residents, citing the need to dismantle Hamas's infrastructure and capabilities. However, this order has forced thousands of civilians to flee west towards the Mediterranean coast and south to Khan Younis, The incursion has resulted in heavy tank shelling, with local medics reporting that at least three Palestinians have been killed and several others wounded. The violence has not spared critical infrastructure, as houses and mosques have been targeted. Humanitarian crisis deepens The United Nations has expressed grave concern, as two of its guesthouses in Deir al-Balah were struck despite the organization having informed parties of their locations. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric emphasized the inviolability of UN premises and called for their protection, regardless of evacuation orders. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also reported that its staff residence and main warehouse in Deir al-Balah were attacked, resulting in the detention of two staff members and their family members. While three were later released, one staff member remains in custody. This incident underscores the increasingly perilous environment for humanitarian workers attempting to provide aid in the region. (Related: Israeli strikes kill 88 Palestinians in 24 hours as Gaza faces catastrophic hunger crisis.) The situation in Gaza is rapidly deteriorating, with Gaza's Health Ministry reporting that at least 130 Palestinians were killed and over 1,000 wounded in the past 24 hours alone. This is further compounded by a growing hunger crisis, with at least 19 people dying from starvation, according to the ministry. International response and calls for a ceasefire The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with growing calls for an immediate ceasefire. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his dismay at the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where "the last lifelines keeping people alive are collapsing." He has also urged Israel to allow and facilitate humanitarian relief efforts by the UN and other organizations. Health officials warn that hospitals are running out of essential supplies including fuel, food aid and medicine which could lead to a halt in vital operations. The conflict began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants launched an attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages back to Gaza. In response, the Israeli military campaign has killed over 59,000 Palestinians, according to health officials, displacing nearly the entire population and causing a severe humanitarian crisis. The recent attacks in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis, which have resulted in the deaths of at least 65 Palestinians, including 11 aid seekers, have further complicated efforts to secure a ceasefire. Talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt, with U.S. backing, are underway, but the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis pose significant challenges. The IDF's incursion into Deir al-Balah marks a critical juncture in the Gaza conflict. As the situation grows more complex and the humanitarian crisis deepens, the international community must intensify its efforts to bring about a ceasefire and address the urgent needs of the Palestinian people. Watch this shocking clip of the aftermath of an Israeli airstrike near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza struck amid conflict, raising concerns for civilians and Christian minority. Middle East tensions flare up as Netanyahu declares Israeli occupation of Golan Heights will be FOREVER. The new normal: U.S. shows unwavering support for Israels aggression, including its Syrian incursion. Sources include: Reuters.com NBCNews.com AlJazeera.com Brighteon.com Mexico mandates biometric digital ID system in major overhaul of national identification Mexico has made its previously voluntary CURP (Unique Population Registry Code) a mandatory digital ID, now embedded with biometric data such as fingerprints, iris scans and photographs via QR code. The new biometric CURP is being gradually introduced, with full adoption expected by February 2026. It aims to streamline access to public services and reduce identity fraud. The reform includes creating a centralized Unified Identity Platform within 90 days, integrating CURP with various government and private sector databases for real-time identity verification. Critics warn that the system lacks transparency and legal safeguards, with no requirement to notify citizens when their data is accessed. Rights groups fear it could enable mass surveillance and data misuse. Activists also caution that biometric CURP data could be shared internationally, possibly facilitating deportation agreements with U.S. agencies and expanding the reach of Mexican intelligence services. The Mexican government has formally mandated the use of a new biometric-based digital identification system, transforming the previously voluntary Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) into a compulsory digital ID. CURP, originally launched in 1996, served as a non-biometric personal identifier for both Mexican citizens and legal residents. It has been widely used for everything from filing taxes and registering companies to enrolling in school and applying for passports. Under the new law, CURP IDs will now include embedded biometric data like fingerprints, iris scans and photographs, encoded within a scannable QR code. CURP codes have traditionally been used to facilitate critical processes such as tax filing, company registration, school enrollment and passport applications. However, the enhanced version, set to fully roll out by February 2026, will streamline identification, reduce fraud and provide a centralized way to access public services. The digital ID overhaul is part of a broader initiative to consolidate numerous government databases into a single Unified Identity Platform. Under the law, the Ministry of the Interior and the federal Digital Transformation Agency have 90 days to launch the new platform, which will serve as a centralized identity hub for various public and private sector services. Once implemented, the platform will be integrated across institutions including banks, hospitals, schools and government agencies. This will allow them to verify individuals' identities in real time using the upgraded CURP credentials. (Related: U.K. government to launch digital ID wallet this summer.) Mexico's biometric ID rollout sparks surveillance fears The Mexican government has maintained that the biometric CURP system is compliant with current privacy and cybersecurity laws. President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed criticism earlier this July, saying that any surveillance, such as wiretaps, must be authorized by a judge. The government has emphasized the potential for the Unified Identity Platform to assist in addressing Mexico's long-standing crisis of disappearances. The platform will be linked to the National Registry of Missing and Unlocated Persons and the National Forensic Data Bank, allowing for faster identification of bodies and the tracking of missing individuals. However, privacy advocates and human rights organizations have raised urgent concerns over a growing surveillance apparatus with limited transparency or safeguards. Critics argued that the mandatory nature of the new system and the lack of clear oversight mechanisms pose serious risks to civil liberties. One of the most contentious issues is that under the current law, government agencies are not required to notify citizens when their biometric data is accessed, used or shared. "This puts us in a massive surveillance ecosystem with no provisions to identify wrong use of data, data breaches, identity theft or acts of corruption," said Jose Flores, director of digital rights group R3D. Civil society groups, including Article 19, have also warned that the new ID system could give intelligence services, such as the National Intelligence Centre and the National Guard, unrestricted access to biometric data. This access, they argued, lacks the oversight and transparency necessary to prevent abuse. Rights organizations were also raising red flags about potential data-sharing arrangements with foreign governments. Activists warned that the CURP system could eventually be used to support deportation cooperation with U.S. law enforcement agencies by allowing biometric verification across borders. Visit PrivacyWatch.news for more stories like this. Watch this video to learn how the digital ID will control your life. This video is from the Data Dumper channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Digital ID system incoming: Nebraska now collecting citizens' digital health data. EU collaborates with foreign governments on digital ID. Australia following Communist Chinas footsteps with digital ID system. Sources include: ReclaimtheNet.org BiometricUpdate.com Brighteon.com Netanyahu apologizes for accidental strike on Catholic church in Gaza it was DELIBERATE Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Pope Leo XIV for the IDFs "accidental" strike on Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza, attributing it to "stray ammunition" and offering condolences for the three deaths and 10 injuries, including a priest linked to Pope Francis. Despite Israel's claims of unintentional harm, Cardinal Pizzaballa and others openly doubted the "mistake" narrative. The Vatican condemned Gaza's humanitarian crisis and reiterated calls for a ceasefire, though it avoided directly blaming Israel. The strike follows other IDF actions against Gaza's Christian minority, including the October 2023 bombing of Saint Porphyrius Church (18 killed) and damage to Gaza Baptist Church during the Al-Ahli Hospital explosion. Shelling resumed within 24 hours of Netanyahu's apology, killing 14 more. Gaza's vanishing Christian community (under 1,000 remaining) has served as a interfaith bridge. The Vatican's deployment of clergy to Gaza challenges Israel's blockade, while Pope Leo XIV's diplomacy contrasts with U.S. frustration, revealing allied fractures. With over 58,600 Palestinian deaths (70 percent women/children) since October 2023, the church attack underscores the paradox of Israel's campaign against Hamas: Massive civilian casualties, even in protected religious sites, rendering diplomatic apologies hollow amid famine and stalled ceasefires. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued an apology over the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) "accidental" strike on the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza on Thursday, July 17. The Israeli leader apologized to Pope Leo XIV the head of the Roman Catholic Church during a phone call on July 18. He described the strike as being caused by "stray ammunition" from Israeli tanks, and offered condolences to the casualties. The attack killed three Palestinians and injured 10 others including a priest who had maintained a close bond with Pope Francis, Leo's predecessor as pontiff. While Tel Aviv insists that the attack on the church was "unintentional," it has drawn rare Vatican-led condemnation and reignited scrutiny over the IDFs targeting of civilian shelters and houses of worship in its nearly nine-month campaign against Hamas. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, openly doubted Israel's claims of error after touring the damaged church Friday. "We are not a target. They say it was a mistake. Even if everybody here believes it wasn't," he told Corriere della Sera. The Holy See, while stopping short of directly blaming Israel, called Gaza's humanitarian crisis "dramatic" and renewed demands for a ceasefire. (Related: Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza struck amid conflict, raising concerns for civilians and Christian minority.) The incident is the latest in a pattern of lethal IDF actions against Gaza's Christian minority. In October 2023, Israel bombed the historic Church of Saint Porphyrius, killing 18 civilians. Days later, shrapnel from an airstrike damaged the Gaza Baptist Church during the controversial Al-Ahli Hospital explosion an event Israel attributed to a Palestinian rocket misfire. Despite Netanyahu's assurances to protect holy sites, Palestinian health officials report that Israeli shelling resumed within 24 hours of the church apology killing at least 14 more people overnight. Holy See vs. Tel Aviv: A diplomatic clash over Gaza Since October 2023, Gaza's Health Ministry considered reliable by the United Nations has documented over 58,600 Palestinian deaths, 70 percent of whom are women and children. Historical parallels underscore the significance of the church strike. Gaza's Christian community, already dwindling from 3,000 to under 1,000 since 2007, has long served as a bridge between faiths in the region. The Vatican's decision to dispatch high-level clergy to Gaza marks a symbolic challenge to Israel's blockade, with Pizzaballa vowing to maintain a Catholic presence "whatever happens." Meanwhile, the pontiff's diplomacy contrasts sharply with U.S. President Donald Trump's reported private frustration, highlighting growing fractures even among Israel's allies. As global scrutiny intensifies, the Holy Family Church attack crystallizes the enduring paradox of Israel's Gaza offensive. This campaign, ostensibly aimed at Hamas, continues to exact an unbearable toll on civilians including those under the sanctuary of centuries-old religious institutions. With ceasefire talks stalled and Gaza facing famine, diplomatic apologies ring hollow for families sifting through rubble whether in churches, hospitals or the ruins of their homes. Visit OutrageDepot.com for more similar stories. Watch this clip showing the aftermath of Israel's strike on the Abu Helou School in central Gaza. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: More than 300 KILLED in 48 hours as Israels assault on Gaza Strip continues. Israeli strikes kill 88 Palestinians in 24 hours as Gaza faces catastrophic hunger crisis. Former MEP condemns hypocritical EU for being "totally complicit" in Gaza genocide. Sources include: RT.com YnetNews.com APNews.com Brighteon.com Power crisis looms: PJM warns of grid collapse as AI servers and retiring plants collide PJM Interconnection's grid faces capacity crunch amid AI data center boom. I servers now consume twice as much power as older models, straining the eastern U.S. grid. Retired fossil fuel plants and renewable intermittency worsen reliability risks. Capacity auction costs surged to $14.7B, driven by data center electricity demand. Watchdog urges data centers to build self-generation to ease grid strain. The nations largest power grid, serving 65 million people across 13 states and Washington, D.C., has reached its operational limits, according to a warning from the independent watchdog Monitoring Analytics. The PJM Interconnectionspanning regions such as Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginias Data Center Alleyis grappling with insufficient capacity to meet rising demand, driven largely by energy-intensive artificial intelligence infrastructure. As summer heat triggers peak electricity use, regulators and industry experts now caution that data centers may need to generate their own power unless grid investments accelerate. The crisis underscores decades-long policy shifts toward renewable energy, fossil fuel plant retirements and the unexpected growth of hyperscale computing. The data center boom outpaces grid capacity The rapid expansion of AI data centers has become a critical factor in the grids strain. Advanced AI servers, such as Nvidias GB200 model, now consume 120 kilowatts per rackdouble the energy of older units. Multiplying these demands across thousands of servers in sprawling facilities has led to a perfect storm, pushing the grid past its limits. Loudoun County, Virginia, a global epicenter of data infrastructure, faces particular pressure. Joe Bowring, president of Monitoring Analytics, emphasized the urgency: There is simply no new capacity to meet new loads. The solution is to make sure that people who want to build data centers are serious enough about it to bring their own generation. Retired power plants leave gaps as renewables falter Compounding the issue, 21% of PJMs existing generating capacity will retire by 2030, driven by federal and state policies favoring decarbonization. While renewables like wind and solar have expanded, their intermittent nature creates reliability risks, especially during peak demand periods. Mondays capacity auction results, projected to exceed record highs, underscore the grids vulnerability: prices rose to $14.7 billion last year, with over $9.4 billion attributed directly to data center demand. The U.S. electric grid was once resilient due to coal and natural gas plants, which provided steady baseload power. However, aggressive closures of fossil fuel infrastructureas part of broader climate initiativeshave left the grid dependent on uneven energy sources. Market instability and the Mid-Atlantics grid stir Political and economic pressures are intensifying. Goldman Sachs recently declared that Mid-Atlantic power prices finally caught up to AIs load growth, while Marylands network has become so precarious that state officials warned of rolling blackouts. Pennsylvanias emergency intervention in Juneairdropping generators to stabilize Marylands gridhighlighted how interconnected and fragile the system has become. Summer 2025 has brought record-high wholesale power prices in PJM, outpacing even historically pricey markets on the West Coast. Bowring noted that future solutions must align grid expansions with data center development, including fast-tracked permits for facilities that bring their own generation. A crossroads for energy policy and technology The PJM crisis illustrates the high stakes of balancing innovation with infrastructure. Data centers, vital to AI growth, now face pressure to become energy-independent while regulators scramble to close capacity gaps. If unresolved, shortages could stifle technological progress and inflate consumer costs. As Bowring stressed, the path forward hinges on policymakers, tech firms and grid operators collaborating to ensure reliability without sacrificing progress. With summers peak demand still weeks away, the grids next test is as much about foresight as it is about survival. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com Bloomberg.com WorldTribune.com Starvation crisis deepens in Gaza as death toll from hunger surpasses 100, including 89 children At least 15 Palestinians, mostly children, died of starvation in Gaza in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 101 since the start of the blockade and ongoing military campaign. Since Israel sealed Gaza's main crossings on March 2, essential food and medical aid have been largely blocked. The U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), operating outside the United Nations (UN) framework, has faced harsh criticism for restricted and dangerous aid distributions. The UN reported that over 900 Palestinians have been killed and more than 60,000 injured while attempting to access GHF aid, with sites described as "mass death traps" due to Israeli and U.S.-affiliated attacks on desperate civilians. The World Food Programme (WFP) and Gaza authorities warn of catastrophic hunger affecting 1.25 million people. Over 96 percent of the population suffers from severe food insecurity, with 650,000 children under five at acute risk of malnutrition. The Palestinian Health Ministry, UNRWA and global medical organizations accuse Israel of deliberate starvation and possible crimes against humanity, demanding immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported on Monday, July 22, that at least 15 Palestinians, most of them children, have died from starvation in Gaza in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll from hunger and malnutrition to 101 since the beginning of the genocide in Gaza. According to several reports, since Israel's closure of Gaza's main border crossings on March 2, no significant quantities of food or medicine have reached the population through traditional humanitarian channels. While limited aid has been distributed by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) since late May, the initiative has come under fierce criticism from rights groups and United Nations (UN) officials for bypassing the UN and restricting aid to specific "safe zones" under military oversight. (Related: Gaza faces "catastrophic" famine with 93% of population in crisis, aid groups say.) The UN described these GHF aid sites as "mass death traps," where Israeli forces and U.S.-affiliated mercenaries have reportedly killed over 900 Palestinians seeking food and wounded more than 60,000. Another 46 individuals are still missing. In line with this, the latest data of the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor revealed that at least one Palestinian died of hunger every 80 minutes on Sunday, July 20, accusing Israel of implementing "a systematic starvation policy" against Gaza's two million residents. The UN and international humanitarian agencies echoed the alarm. The World Food Program (WFP) warned that one in three Gazans is now going days without food, with thousands "on the verge of catastrophic hunger." Gaza's Government Media Office estimated that 1.25 million people, more than half the enclave's population, are experiencing catastrophic hunger. Nearly the entire population, 96 percent, now faces severe food insecurity. More than 650,000 children under five are at "imminent and severe risk of acute malnutrition," the office added. "This is a generation being starved to death," said the director of Gaza's Al-Shifa Hospital, describing scenes of widespread collapse, memory loss and exhaustion among patients, most of whom are children. "We have 17,000 children suffering from severe malnutrition. We don't have enough beds or medicine." Medical professionals, including Dr. Suhaib al-Hams, director of the Al-Mawasi field hospital, are warning of an imminent "wave of deaths" from organ failure, with a growing epidemic of intestinal illness, exhaustion and memory loss attributed to prolonged hunger. International aid groups accuse Israel of crimes against humanity In line with the data, the Palestinian Health Ministry issued an urgent plea Monday: "This is a silent massacre. The Ministry of Health holds the Israeli occupation and the international community fully responsible. We urgently call for the immediate opening of all crossings to allow the entry of food and medicine," the ministry said. It held both the Israeli government and the international community responsible for the crisis, demanding the immediate and unconditional opening of all border crossings to allow food and medical aid to enter the besieged enclave. The UN's relief agency for Palestinian refugees, United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), also condemned the starvation as deliberate: "The Israeli Authorities are starving civilians in Gaza. Among them are one million children." Doctors Without Borders also issued a grave warning on Monday, saying the deliberate restriction and manipulation of humanitarian aid "may constitute crimes against humanity." The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned that Palestinians in Gaza now face "an acute risk of famine," stating, "No one should have to risk their life to get basic humanitarian assistance." Meanwhile, the WFP stated: "Only a massive scale-up in food aid distributions can stabilize this spiraling situation, calm anxieties and rebuild the trust within communities that more food is coming. An agreed ceasefire is long overdue." Visit Starvation.news for more stories about the ongoing hunger crisis in the Gaza Strip. Watch the video below to see how skin diseases, dysentery and hepatitis are spiking in Gaza due to the Israeli destruction of water facilities. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Netanyahu denies Gaza famine, claims detained Palestinians are "overweight" while Gaza children die from hunger. Israel accused of targeting aid workers and deliberately provoking famine in Gaza. UN World Food Program director warns there is "full-blown famine" in northern Gaza. German support for Israel waning amid mounting death toll and famine threat in Gaza. Israel is weaponizing FAMINE while destroying food system in Gaza, says UN human rights expert. Sources include: TheCradle.co APNews.com Brighteon.com Trump administration unveils secret MLK assassination files amid calls for transparency and respect President Donald Trump declassifies over 230,000 pages of records related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s 1968 assassination. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard spearheads the release, calling it a long-overdue reckoning with federal transparency. Files include FBI surveillance data, James Earl Rays prison communications and international tracking documents. Kings family urges empathy in engaging with the files, emphasizing their grief and concerns about weaponizing the materials. Additional releases on the RFK and JFK assassinations expected, alongside ongoing debates over government secrecy reform. President Donald Trumps administration has released more than 230,000 previously classified documents related to the assassination of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., marking a historic step toward fulfilling his executive order to declassify records on three high-profile Cold War-era assassinations. Directed by National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, the disclosure includes FBI surveillance logs, CIA tracking of suspect James Earl Ray and details of U.S.-U.K. collaboration during Rays extradition. The July 21 release coincides with heightened demands for federal accountability, as Trump has pledged to overturn classified status on every page of records tied to King, JFK and Robert F. Kennedys deaths. Gabbard described the move as no stone left unturned in addressing historical controversies that have haunted U.S. governance for decades. Critics, however, question the extent of new revelations, noting most documents merely confirm known facts about the FBIs surveillance of King and its flawed handling of his murder. Historical context and enduring questions Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, by James Earl Ray, a fugitive who pleaded guilty the following year but later recanted, alleging government conspiracy. Despite Rays 1998 death, lingering doubts persist over whether federal agencies, including the FBI, concealed evidence of broader involvement. The newly published materials include: FBI memo declassifications: Internal communications from 1965 to 1968 reveal surveillance targeting Kings Southern Christian Leadership Conference, though many files reaffirm prior disclosures about the Bureaus anti-communist bias. Rays prison records: Transcripts from Rays interviews and communications with a cellmate suggest discussions about assassination plans. International tracking: Canadian and U.S. police records detail Rays post-assassination escape route across North America. Gabbard emphasized the significance of digitizing decades-old records, calling the project a landmark effort to address historical gaps. The American people deserve clarity, she stated, though her office acknowledged some files remain redacted due to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) restrictions on sensitive sources. Family backlash and moral complexities Kings children, Bernice King and Martin Luther King III, expressed ambivalence toward the disclosures. While acknowledging the public right to truth, they petitioned for respectful engagement amid concerns the files would retraumatize their family. The grief is ongoing, they wrote on the social media platform X, urging users to avoid exploiting the materials for falsehoods or divisiveness. Critics argue the release prioritizes transparency over communal healing, noting the FBIs documented history of targeting Kings movement through illegal surveillance, racial profiling and disinformation campaigns. The tension reflects broader debates over how historical records shape national memory. Kings niece, Alveda King, endorsed the release as a step toward truth, contrasting the administrations actions with stalled probes into figures like financier Jeffrey Epstein. Bernice King amplified this demand on social media: Now, do the Epstein files? Political significance: Transparency as a battleground Trumps push for declassification has reignited discussions about executive power and systemic secrecy in U.S. governance. By targeting high-profile assassinations, his administration frames transparency as a virtue of conservative reform, contrasting with prior administrations often accused of over-classifying records. Yet skepticism lingers. While DNI Gabbard credited technological advancements for enabling large-scale digitization, independent researchers note the limited utility of many files. The House Assassinations Committees 1979 finding of likely conspiracy in Kings killing remains unchallenged, though the new data offers no smoking-gun evidence of broader government involvement. Looking ahead: The JFK and RFK releases The MLK files represent Phase I of Trumps broader agenda. Earlier 2025 releases included 3,000 JFK assassination records, with RFK documents scheduled for late-year publication. Gabbards team has cited tens of thousands more pages pending declassification, though nonpartisan groups like the Assassination Archives and Research Center warn of gaps in current archives. For now, the political optics overshadow scholarly impact. By making MLKs files public, Trump has simultaneously burnished his image as an anti-establishment icon and provoked urgent reflection on federal overreach. Whether the move heals wounds or reopens them remains unresolved. History is written in layers, said historian Taylor Branch in a recent interview. Today, weve just unveiled more of the undergrowth. Final analysis: A pivot for trust in governance The declassification of MLKs files underscores enduring national divisions over truth, power and accountability. While some view the move as overdue courage, others perceive it as performative theater. But for conservatives championing transparency as a core value, its significance lies in reaffirming faith in the system itselfeven as it confronts its own darkest chapters. Sources for this article include: YourNews.com Archives.gov CBSNews.com How a British Defense Ministry COVERUP endangers spies, soldiers, and Afghan allies In the quiet halls of power, where governments operate behind veils of secrecy, dangerous truths have a way of clawing their way into the light. A catastrophic British Defense Ministry leak once buried under legal gag ordershas erupted into public view, exposing not just bureaucratic incompetence but a chilling disregard for the lives of those most at risk. The identities of over 100 MI6 spies, special forces operatives, and Afghan allies were thrown into the wind like loose pages of a classified dossier, left to flutter into enemy hands. And while Westminster scrambled to silence the story, the fallout from this cover-up stretches far beyond the shadows, costing taxpayers billions and leaving blood on the hands of those entrusted with secrecy. This is more than a blunderits betrayal. Key points: Names revealed: The 2022 leak accidentally exposed more than 100 UK spies, special forces personnel, and military figures alongside thousands of Afghan collaborators whose lives are now in jeopardy. Gag order lifted: A High Court judge finally lifted a super injunction that suppressed the truth for years, allowing media to report the full scope of the catastrophe. Cover-up revealed: The UK Defense Ministry allegedly hid the breach from affected Afghans, failing to warn them of Taliban retaliation risks. Relocation chaos: Over 4,500 Afghans have since been evacuated in a secret, costly operation, with expenses projected to spiral into the billions. No accountability: Defense officials admit they still dont know if the leak has led to deathsbut the damage is undeniable. A ticking time bomb in a spreadsheet The chain reaction began with a single, devastating mistake. In February 2022, a British official inadvertently emailed a spreadsheet containing the names, contact details, and sensitive records of nearly 19,000 Afghans who had served alongside UK forces. Many were interpreters, guides, or intelligence sourcesindividuals left stranded when the U.S.-led war collapsed, now desperate for asylum before Taliban retribution. But hidden among these records were British operativessome still active, others retiredwhose affiliations should have stayed locked in classified vaults. The leak resurfaced more dangerously in 2023 when Afghan Facebook users posted fragments, threatening to release the rest unless officials paid ransom. British authorities, panicked, imposed a super injunctiona legal muzzle so severe that even acknowledging its existence could land journalists in prison. Why fight so hard to bury the truth? Because the exposure wasnt just negligenceit was reckless endangerment at the highest levels. The high price of silenced lies While the court gag order kept the public blindfolded, Whitehall orchestrated a scramble to save faceand lives. A covert relocation program evacuated thousands of Afghans connected to the leak, resettling them in the UK at staggering taxpayer expense. Judge Justice Chamberlain estimated the full operation could hemorrhage 7 billion, dwarfing initial projections. Yet the most damning revelation? Those whose names were leaked werent informedeven as the Taliban hunted them down. Defense Secretary John Healey issued a hollow apology, admitting he couldnt confirm if the breach had gotten anyone killed. Its a sanitized admissionone that reeks of bureaucratic evasion. Because in war zones like Afghanistan, where informants face torture and execution, silence equals death. Who pays for the failure? The architects of this disaster remain shielded by rank and red tape. No resignations. No prosecutions. Only thousands of displaced Afghans, betrayed allies, and compromised operatives left to shoulder the consequences. For whistleblowers and skeptics, this case confirms darker suspicions: Governments guard their reputations more fiercely than human lives. While ordinary citizens rage over misplaced tax pounds or leaked medical data, elite institutions operate with near immunityburying scandals that would crush corporations or civilians under lawsuits. But secrets rot in sunlight. The lifted injunction puts Westminster on notice: the era of absolute impunity is fracturing. If MI6 operatives and elite soldiers can be outed through sheer bureaucratic sloppiness, what does that say about the competenceor integrityof those promising national security? Sources include: RT.com BBCNews.com Enoch, Brighteon.ai UN accuses Israel of starving Gaza civilians as hunger deaths mount The UN accuses Israel of systematically blocking food and medicine deliveries to Gaza, causing a "man-made" crisis where civilians, including one million children, face starvation despite nearby stockpiles. At least 71 children have died from malnutrition since October, with 60,000 more showing starvation symptoms. Infants and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, with reports of deaths due to lack of food and medical care. Palestinians seeking aid face gunfire at militarized distribution sites. Nearly 900 Palestinians have been killed at these sites since late May, while Israel bars UN agencies like UNRWA from delivering stockpiled supplies. Overwhelmed hospitals report malnourished mothers giving birth prematurely, wounds failing to heal and up to five infants sharing a single incubator. Doctors warn of catastrophic outcomes if food is not allowed in. The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged war crimes and South Africa has brought a genocide case against Israel. Despite international outrage, Israel's siege continues, exacerbating collective punishment. The United Nations has accused Israel of deliberately starving civilians in Gaza, including one million children, by blocking food and medicine deliveries, while warehouses just kilometers away hold ample stock. As malnutrition-related deaths rise, particularly among infants and pregnant women, UN agencies warn the crisis is entirely "man-made" and could be halted immediately if Israel lifted its siege. Meanwhile, Palestinians scrambling for aid report being shot at militarized distribution sites. Palestinian health authorities report that at least 71 children have died from malnutrition since October, with 60,000 more showing symptoms of starvation. Over the past week alone, Gaza's civil defense agency documented at least three infant deaths from lack of food and medicine, signaling a grim new phase in the humanitarian collapse. "The heartbreaking cases were not caused by direct bombing but by starvation, the lack of baby formula and the absence of basic healthcare," said Mahmud Bassal, a Gaza civil defense spokesperson. Displaced father Ziad Musleh told AFP: "Our children cry and scream for food. They go to sleep in pain, in hunger, with empty stomachs. There is absolutely no food." The World Food Programme (WFP) describes Gaza as facing the worst hunger crisis it has ever recorded, with nearly one-third of the enclave's population enduring days-long food gaps. Meanwhile, the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) condemned Israel's blockade as "unconscionable," noting that families foraging for food face gunfire. (Related: From Famine to Farce: Gaza's 'Humanitarian' War Ensnares the World in Moral Quicksand.) International condemnation against Israel's systematic denial of aid grows Despite international law requiring civilian access to humanitarian aid, Israel has barred the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from delivering food into Gaza since March 2, even as the agency reports stockpiles sufficient for three months sit unused nearby. "Food is available just a few kilometers away," said UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini. "Lift the siege: allow UNRWA to bring in food and medicines." Instead, aid convoys have been bombed and militarized distribution sites run by the U.S.- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) have turned lethal. Nearly 900 Palestinians have been killed at GHF sites since late May, according to health officials. Medical Relief in Gaza director Mohammed Abu Afash told Al Jazeera: "Hunger is affecting everyone. The coming days could be catastrophic if food is not allowed in." Doctors Without Borders (MSF) confirmed neonatal units are overwhelmed, with malnourished mothers giving birth prematurely and up to five infants sharing a single incubator. Protein deficiencies have left wounds unhealed and infections prolonged, compounding Gaza's collapsed healthcare system. The scale of the crisis has drawn global condemnation. Last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense minister for alleged war crimes. South Africa has also brought a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Yet the starvation toll continues rising 18 Palestinians died from hunger in just the last 24 hours, per Gaza's Health Ministry. As UN agencies decry Gaza's "man-made" famine, Israel's blockade remains intact, exacerbating what experts call a deliberate strategy of collective punishment. With millions of lives at stake, calls for immediate intervention grow louder but for now, Palestinian civilians, especially children, remain trapped in an unrelenting cycle of deprivation and despair. Watch the video below that talks about massive starvation in Gaza. This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Israeli strikes kill 88 Palestinians in 24 hours as Gaza faces catastrophic hunger crisis. Gaza food hubs are being used to carry out WAR CRIMES: Nearly 800 Palestinians DEAD from Israeli death traps. UN official: Gaza's humanitarian collapse pushing civilians "back to pre-civilization" amid Israeli campaign. Sources include: MiddleEastEye.net YeniSafak.com Brighteon.com U.S. militarys grenade-dropping drone breakthrough exposes dire lag in modern warfare U.S. Armys recent display of a grenade-dropping drone highlights its staggering lag in drone warfare technology. Ukraine and non-state groups like ISIS have deployed similar or superior capabilities for years, with Ukraine now leading global advancements. Failed U.S. military tests in Alaska reveal systemic shortcomings in autonomous drone development and countermeasures. Pentagon reforms aim to speed drone acquisition, but bureaucratic hurdles persist. Trump-Zelensky talks propose a drone mega deal to piggyback on Ukraines battlefield-tested tech. The U.S. Armys recent announcement showcasing its first live-grenade drop from an unmanned aircraft system was swiftly mocked for its self-congratulatory tone. What rock have you been hiding under the last three years? demanded one critic, referencing Ukraines battlefield dominance in drone warfare, ISISs 2016 precedent and Mexicos cartel innovations. The Armys delayed progress serves as an indictment of U.S. military readiness as adversaries surge ahead. A game-changing capability, borrowed from 2016 The Armys demo in Germany routed out grenades via quadcopter dronesemulated tactics perfected by ISIS militants during the Battle of Mosul. By 2017, jihadists were deploying DIY drones to lob grenades and explosives at U.S. forces. In Syria, these tactics evolved, while Ukraines war against Russia has seen drone warfare escalate to industrial scale. Ukraines homemade Vampire and Zubr drones now strike up to 800 miles into Russian territory, neutralizing airbases and Black Sea fleets. Conversely, the Pentagons Artemis project, a $16 million initiative to develop counter-drone tech, faltered in Alaskas June tests: AeroVironments prototype crashed into a hill mid-jamming exercise. Dragoons Sender drone overshot its target, erupting in flames. [W]e just arent giving the [U.S.] warfighter what they need to survive today, Pentagon acquisition expert Trent Emeneker admitted, underscoring systemic failures. Behind the curve: Bureaucracy, budgets and battlespace ignorance The Armys tardiness stems from intertwining issues: Bureaucratic inertia: Despite Gen. Richard Clarkes 2022 warnings about quadcopter threats, institutional resistance delayed drone integration. Despite Gen. Richard Clarkes 2022 warnings about quadcopter threats, institutional resistance delayed drone integration. Strategic obtuseness: The Armys latest tank manual mocks Ukraines lessons by advising troops to spot drones via open hatches and shotgun shells. Anti-drone armor, standard on Ukrainian Abrams tanks since 2021, is only now under review for adoption. The Armys latest tank manual mocks Ukraines lessons by advising troops to spot drones via open hatches and shotgun shells. Anti-drone armor, standard on Ukrainian Abrams tanks since 2021, is only now under review for adoption. Civilian tech gaps: U.S. firms like Neros and Dragoon lag behind Ukraines rapid prototyping. During Operation Spider Web, 117 Ukrainian drones crippled four Russian airfieldsa feat unmatched by U.S. systems. The Office of Naval Researchs July report further warned: The U.S. approaches drone development with glacial efficiency; competitors iterate daily in real battlefields. A mega deal with Kyiv: Buying Ukraines war experience Amid failures, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth unveiled reforms to cut drone procurement red tape. Concurrently, President Trumps team is negotiating a $2.1 billion deal with Ukraine: Biden administration objections aside, Kyiv would license its drone tech to Washington in exchange for American weapons. This is a win-win, declared President Zelensky, whose forces have tested innovations under-withering Russian fire. The pact could leverage Ukraines adaptive edgeits drones are 83% cheaper than U.S. equivalents and boast superior AI targeting. Were trading asymmetric strategies, Emeneker noted. American industry must learn from Ukraines speed and resourcefulnessif its not too late. An air dominance role reversal For decades, the United States has prided itself as the global vanguard of military innovation, yet its drone technology now amounts to little more than a hollow echo of its past dominance. While Ukraine and Houthi rebels in Yemen have weaponized drones to transformative effectUkraine employing swarms for tactical strikes and relentless surveillance, while the Houthis have besieged Saudi and UAE infrastructure with low-cost, autonomous drones like swarm attacksthe Pentagon remains paralyzed by bureaucratic gridlock and outdated paradigms of warfare. The Armys infamous 2016 "grenade-dropping" drone experiment, which saw a defense contractor deploy modified drones to drop hand grenades, offers a stark metaphor for its broader failures: overcomplicated systems, exorbitant costs, and a disconnect from the realities of modern conflict. These issues are not merely technical but existential, marking a "Sputnik moment" that underscores the peril of lagging behind the curve. While Lieutenant General Rick Lynchs reforms and heightened U.S.-Ukraine diplomacy under the Trump and Biden administrations hint at solutions, the window for adaptation narrows daily. As President Zelensky charged last autumn, Our enemies fight tomorrows wars today. Shouldnt their allies follow? Without urgent modernization, the United States risks ceding battlefield supremacy to adversaries who wield simple, adaptable technologies with devastating precision. The Houthis asymmetric drone campaigns and Ukraines mastery of battlefield surveillance drones starkly illustrate this truthwarfare has evolved, but Americas military playbook remains frozen in the 21st centurys rearview mirror. Sources for this article include: TWZ.com TexAgs.com NYPost.com DefenseNews.com VAX CULT circumvents RFK Jr. new vaccine safety oversight and gets FDA to approve deadly COVID CLOT SHOT for KIDS Clot shots are back, and the FDA is still just as insidious as ever. Yes, the Vaccine Industrial Complex of America just cant be stopped. Poisonous jabs for all children always labeled as 95% safe and effective at all times, without any proper trials whatsoever. Fast track it. Call it an emergency. Skirt the authorities. Just get those toxins in those kids and feed that cash cow. Heres how it just went down. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted full approval to Modernas mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for children as young as six months oldwithout informing Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was reportedly on vacation at the time. The decision has ignited a political and administrative firestorm within the federal health agency, culminating in the abrupt firing of two top HHS aides. FDA Approved Moderna COVID Shot for Kids Without Kennedys Knowledge: While HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was on vacation, the FDA granted full approval for Modernas Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 11 years at risk for COVID, allegedly without briefing Kennedy or his deputy chief of staff. While HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was on vacation, the FDA granted full approval for Modernas Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 11 years at risk for COVID, allegedly without briefing Kennedy or his deputy chief of staff. Internal Dissent and Safety Concerns Raised: The approval came despite internal warnings from Moderna scientists regarding unacceptable toxicity in mRNA vaccines, including concerns about lipid nanoparticles and mRNA-induced proteins, raising questions about the approval process. The approval came despite internal warnings from Moderna scientists regarding unacceptable toxicity in mRNA vaccines, including concerns about lipid nanoparticles and mRNA-induced proteins, raising questions about the approval process. Top HHS Aides Abruptly Fired Post-Approval: Following the FDA decision, two of Kennedys top aidesChief of Staff Heather Flick Melanson and Deputy Chief of Staff Hannah Andersonwere fired in what CNN called a leadership shake-up; reports linked their removal to the unsanctioned vaccine decision. Following the FDA decision, two of Kennedys top aidesChief of Staff Heather Flick Melanson and Deputy Chief of Staff Hannah Andersonwere fired in what CNN called a leadership shake-up; reports linked their removal to the unsanctioned vaccine decision. Kennedy Allies and PACs Cite Internal Betrayal: Pro-Kennedy sources, including the MAHA PAC and Dr. Robert Malone, confirmed that neither Kennedy nor Stefanie Spears were informed of the decision, prompting a rapid leadership purge and signaling internal revolt over the vaccine approval. FDA Approved Moderna COVID Shot for Kids Behind Kennedys BackTwo HHS Aides Fired On July 10, Moderna announced that the FDA had approved a supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for its Spikevax vaccine, officially authorizing its use in children aged six months to eleven years who are considered at increased risk for COVID-19 by the highly corrupt vaccine industrial complex. This decision represents the full licensure of an mRNA COVID shot for pediatric use, a major policy shift with wide-ranging implications. Sources indicate that Kennedy, who oversees the FDA as Secretary of HHS, had no prior knowledge of the approval decision. His Deputy Chief of Staff, Stefanie Spears, was also reportedly kept in the dark. The lack of communication has raised serious concerns about internal transparency and chain-of-command violations at one of the nations most powerful public health agencies. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary is alleged to have moved forward with the approval while Kennedy was away, without briefing the Secretary or his office. The matter came to public attention on July 16 when journalist Emerald Robinson posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the FDA had bypassed Kennedy entirely. The fallout was swift. On July 17, CNN reported the dismissal of Kennedys Chief of Staff Heather Flick Melanson and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Hannah Anderson. While CNN did not explicitly link the firings to the FDA's vaccine approval, other sources have drawn a direct connection. MAHA PAC, a pro-Kennedy and pro-Trump political action committee, echoed Robinsons claims and connected the firings to the FDAs Moderna decision. Dr. Robert Malone, a vocal critic of mRNA technology and now a member of the restructured Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), confirmed the sequence of events. According to Malone, the Secretary and Spears were not briefed or read in on the FDAs move, and their return triggered a major reorganization of HHS leadership. The situation escalated further when Hannah Anderson, upon her dismissal, reportedly crashed her vehicle into Kennedys government-issued caran incident reflecting the heightened tensions within HHS. The approval itself is also under scrutiny. Modernas internal documents reportedly acknowledge significant toxicity concerns related to mRNA vaccine components, including lipid nanoparticles and protein production methods. Despite these flagged risks, the FDA moved ahead with full approval for pediatric use. The episode has exposed significant fractures within federal public health leadership and raised questions about decision-making transparency in matters of national health policy. It also underscores the politically charged nature of mRNA vaccine approvalsespecially when involving childrenand the increasingly visible rifts within the Biden administrations health apparatus. Bookmark plague.info to your favorite independent websites for updates on vaccines that function as their own plague, creating and spreading disease in children, teens and immune-compromised grandparents. Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news GatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com Modernity.news News / National by Staff reporter Irish Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond, arrived in Zimbabwe on Monday as part of his official visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic, trade, and development ties between Ireland and Zimbabwe.Richmond, who was in Zambia prior to his arrival, is expected to meet with Zimbabwean political leaders as well as members of the Irish community during his stay. His visit will focus on reinforcing Ireland's commitment to international development and exploring opportunities for deeper cooperation in health, education, and community development.The Irish Minister's Africa tour will culminate in his participation at the Ministerial Meeting of the G20 Development Working Group in South Africa later this week."Ireland is committed to building and strengthening our trade and development relations throughout Africa, and our continued commitment to development co-operation at a time of unprecedented crisis has been warmly received," Richmond said in a statement released ahead of his engagements in Zimbabwe.He highlighted the ongoing work of Irish Aid and Ireland's development partners, including Build It International and the Global Fund, which he said continue to make a significant impact on communities most in need."I look forward to seeing the impact of their programmes on the ground and to building on our strong relationship with Zambia and Zimbabwe at both the political and community level," Richmond said.While in Zimbabwe, Richmond is expected to engage with development partners such as SERVE and the Global Fund, with a particular focus on health and education initiatives. His itinerary includes a visit to Chegutu District Hospital, where he will tour an HIV treatment clinic as well as the maternal and neonatal ward to assess the impact of ongoing Irish-supported health programmes.The visit underscores Ireland's continued commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe through targeted development cooperation, particularly in the health and education sectors. Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. News / National by Staff reporter A senior government official has cautioned against allowing wealthy individuals to manipulate Zanu-PF structures through their donations, warning that the revolutionary party risks straying from its ideological foundations if it bows to the power of money over political principles.Writing in a widely circulated opinion piece, Richard Runyararo Mahomva, Director for International Communication Services in the Ministry of Information, said donations from private individuals, including captains of industry, are essential in supporting the party's operations but should not translate into influence or access to power.Mahomva's remarks come amid growing debate within Zanu-PF over the role of wealthy benefactors and their perceived attempts to leverage financial contributions to gain political capital. Party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa recently took aim at business tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei, accusing him of seeking political influence through his financial support.Mahomva noted that while donations sustain political parties worldwide, they are often motivated more by a desire to protect private wealth than by genuine ideological alignment. He warned that Zimbabwe's ruling party, with its rich liberation history, must guard against being "donated" to the highest bidder."Donations to political parties must be the reciprocal normalcy, particularly when the same sponsors benefit from a governing party's empowerment initiatives," Mahomva wrote. "But no matter the scale of donations - even billions - donors must not be excessively hyped as if their contributions are the first or finest boon to a decades-old institution."He drew a clear distinction between supporting the party financially and attempting to buy influence, warning that such tendencies could undermine the party's revolutionary credentials."Money alone cannot be the free pass to power. This would create a precedent for shutting poor but politically capable members of society out of serving their party," he said.Mahomva reminded readers that Zanu-PF's longevity stems from its ideological clarity and history of struggle, not from the size of its donors' bank accounts. He warned that reducing political leadership to financial muscle risks alienating the party's grassroots supporters and betraying the liberation values upon which it was founded."Zanu-PF defeated a wealthier imperialist state and the MDC's regime-change machinations through ideological precision and moral standing, not just big campaign coffers," he said.As Zanu-PF approaches its 62nd anniversary next month - a milestone that coincides with the nation's Heroes Day and Defence Forces commemorations - Mahomva urged the party to reflect on its revolutionary origins and not allow itself to be swayed by opportunistic elites."For some of us, Zanu-PF is our hope for the future and as such Zanu-PF must be protected from being engulfed by capital which supports private interests and no solid, tried and tested interests to jealously guard public revolutionary interests," he warned.The message is clear: while financial support remains welcome, Zanu-PF must not sell its soul to the highest bidder. Its future, Mahomva argued, lies in remaining loyal to the people, not to those with the deepest pockets. Due to scheduled maintenance from Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 10 PM to Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 2 AM, there may be interruptions for our News Gazette Digital subscribers. During this time frame, please click on any News Gazette website content without logging into your News Gazette Digital subscription account. Thank you for your patience during this scheduled maintenance. The Vagabonds from left, Thomas Edison, John Burroughs, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone pose on a waterwheel in August 2018 at an old mill in West Virginia during one of their annual road/camping trips. Introduction Virology and pathogenesis Ecological drivers of emergence Surveillance and detection Prevention and control strategies Veterinary interventions Human risk mitigation Ecological interventions Broader zoonotic implications Research gaps and future directions Conclusion References Further reading Climate change and habitat disruption are bringing bats, horses, and humans closer, fueling the spread of the Hendra virus. Discover how a One Health approach can break the chain of transmission and protect against future outbreaks. Hendra virus (HeV). Image Credit: Corona Borealis Studio / Shutterstock.com Introduction Hendra virus (HeV) is a member of the Henipavirus genus in the Paramyxoviridae family. HeV was initially discovered in 1994 during an outbreak of fatal respiratory illness in horses in Hendra, a suburb of Brisbane, Australia. The outbreak involved 21 horses, 14 of which died or were euthanized, as well as two human infections, including one fatality. Since the discovery of HeV, sporadic outbreaks have been reported throughout Queensland and New South Wales, primarily involving transmission from flying foxes to horses and occasionally from horses to humans. One case in a dog has also been documented, thus highlighting the potential for cross-species transmission of HeV.1,2 Virology and pathogenesis A newly identified variant emerged: In 2021, scientists discovered "Hendra virus genotype 2" (HeV-g2) circulating in Australian flying fox species, sharing only 84% genetic similarity with the original strain and already linked to horse infections. HeV is an enveloped, pleomorphic virus, with morphology ranging from spherical particles to elongated filaments. Both the attachment glycoprotein (G) and fusion protein (F) protrude outward from the viral membrane, enabling host cell entry through ephrin B2 and B3 receptors. The single-stranded, negative-sense, unsegmented viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) genome is bound by nucleocapsid proteins (N), which form a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex that antagonizes innate immune responses.4,5 The natural reservoir of HeV is the Pteropus species of fruit bats, which are otherwise known as flying foxes, in addition to P. alecto, P. poliocephalus, P. scapulatus, and P. conspicillatus species that also harbor HeV.6 Viral spillover to horses typically occurs when animals ingest or inhale food or water contaminated with bat excreta or urine. Human infection occurs through close contact with infected horses and their bodily fluids, such as blood, nasal discharge, and saliva. To date, no human-to-human transmission has occurred. Although rare, human disease is often severe and presents with influenza-like symptoms that may progress to encephalitis or respiratory failure. With a case fatality rate of 57% and no approved treatments, HeV remains a high-priority zoonotic pathogen requiring biosafety level 4 (BSL4) measures.7 Ecological drivers of emergence Dogs can also be infected: Beyond horses and humans, a confirmed 2011 case of an Australian Kelpie dog named Dusty developing Hendra virus antibodies after exposure to sick horses, leading to its euthanasia under government policy. HeV emergence is associated with ecological disruption, particularly habitat loss and climate change. Extensive land clearing for agriculture, mining, and urban development has fragmented natural habitats, thereby displacing flying foxes and increasing their proximity to human and horse populations.8 Drought, food scarcity, and stress from extreme temperatures disrupt patterns of bat foraging, migration, and roosting. This displacement forces flying foxes into orchards, paddocks, and backyards where horses can ingest contaminated excreta.3,8 Climate change is worsening high-risk spillover zones for HeV by shifting bat ranges, altering flowering patterns, and intensifying droughts. Poor eucalyptus flowering and habitat loss force flying foxes into urban areas, further increasing stress and viral shedding. Each of these factors increases the risk of spillover events, particularly during foaling season between August and December, which overlaps with the winter season in eastern Australia. The southward movement of Pteropus alecto into horse-dense regions, such as New South Wales Upper Hunter, highlights how climate-driven ecological changes are escalating zoonotic threats.9 Surveillance and detection Fatality rates are alarmingly high: approximately 60% for humans infected and 75% for horses infected, highlighting the virus's severity. Effective surveillance and early detection of HeV can prevent spillover events, thereby protecting human and animal health. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay can be used to measure HeV antigen levels in blood samples or swabs obtained from horses within four hours. Virus isolation from nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal swabs, as well as clotted blood samples, can also confirm the presence of HeV. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) can also be used to detect anti-HeV antibodies in clotted blood, providing evidence of past exposure or infection to aid in epidemiological tracking.10 Moreover, serological surveillance in bats and horses allows researchers to identify high-risk areas to subsequently inform vaccination and biosecurity strategies. Subclinical and intermittent infections in bats, as well as nonspecific or sudden symptoms in horses, complicate diagnosis and prevent the early detection of HeV. Limited bat surveillance, especially of key species like Pteropus Alecto, as well as inadequate diagnostic access in rural areas, can also lead to significant underreporting.10,11 Image Credit: CHANUN.V / Shutterstock.com Prevention and control strategies Veterinary interventions The Equivac HeV subunit vaccine, which consists of a soluble G glycoprotein, was initially developed in 2012 to prevent HeV transmission in horses. This vaccine schedule consists of two initial doses, a third dose administered six months later, and annual boosters. By inducing the production of protective antibodies, the Equivac vaccine protects horses from fatal infection while simultaneously interfering with the bat-horse-human transmission chain.11 However, vaccine uptake remains low due to mistrust of pharmaceutical companies, cost concerns, perceived low risk, and limited awareness. Misunderstandings about safety and efficacy further deter use. Addressing these barriers through transparent communication, incentives, and veterinary-led outreach could improve coverage while also protecting animal and human health in high-risk regions.12 Human risk mitigation Human risk mitigation for HeV is dependent upon the strict use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during equine care and autopsy, as infected horses can shed the virus, even before symptoms emerge. Full PPE that includes gloves, respirators or masks, gowns, face shields, and protective footwear is essential to protect veterinarians and handlers from exposure.13 Ongoing public health education for veterinarians and horse owners is also crucial. Key efforts include recognizing early symptoms, promoting vaccination, implementing basic biosecurity, and ensuring proper PPE use through regular training. Open communication fosters trust and encourages timely reporting, which reduces the risk of spillover.14 Australian scientists closer to Hendra virus vaccine thanks to an alpaca named Pedro | 7.30 Play Ecological interventions Outbreaks follow a distinct seasonal pattern: Termed "Hendra Season," spillover events predominantly occur between May and October in Australia, coinciding with large bat congregations in winter foraging habitats and favorable (warm, humid) conditions for the virus. Preventing HeV spillover requires ecological interventions that reduce contact between flying foxes and domestic animals. Preserving and restoring native bat habitats, such as replanting fruiting and flowering trees away from farms, can redirect bats from foraging near horses, thereby reducing the risk of viral shedding in paddocks.14 Establishing buffer zones between bat roosts and horse areas through fencing, relocating horses during peak bat activity, and placing feed and water away from bat-frequented trees can also be effective. These measures, combined with farm-level biosecurity practices, are crucial in high-risk regions to minimize the risk of spillover.12,14 Broader zoonotic implications HeV and Nipah virus (NiV) are closely related members of the Henipavirus genus that cause severe zoonotic outbreaks. Whereas HeV primarily affects horses and humans in Australia, NiV has led to fatal human infections in Southeast Asia, with mortality rates reaching 100% in some outbreaks.5,15 Genetic similarities between HeV and NiV, coupled with their broad host range, raise concerns about viral evolution or recombination. This is particularly worrisome amid habitat loss, climate change, and increased cross-species contact that create ideal conditions for adaptation and potential human-to-human transmission. These risks underscore the importance of a One Health approach, which considers the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health through coordinated surveillance, ecological protection, vaccination, and education, to prevent future spillovers.15 Research gaps and future directions Spillover prediction models must incorporate climate data, bat ecology, temperature, landscape forest cover, land-use changes, human population density, and horse management practices. Although a licensed equine vaccine is available, there is no approved human vaccine or antiviral therapy. Promising candidates, such as a subunit human vaccine and the monoclonal antibody m102.4, are still being evaluated for their safety, efficacy, and long-term protection as post-exposure treatments.15,16 Histologic and immunohistologic findings in Hendra virusinfected horse tissue. A) Hematoxylin and eosin staining shows systemic vasculitis affecting the lung. B) Immunohistologic examination, using polyclonal rabbit anti-Nipah N protein, indicates Hendra virus antigen in a blood vessel in the brain. Scale bars represent 50 m. 15 Longitudinal research is also needed to elucidate how climate change, nutritional stress, bat reproductive cycles, and habitat fragmentation influence viral shedding and transmission. These insights can be used to refine outbreak prediction and prevention strategies. International collaboration is essential to mitigate HeV outbreaks, given the global distribution of bats and their role in the emergence of viral zoonoses. Strengthening cross-border surveillance, data sharing, and coordinated research on diagnostics, vaccines, and treatments will enhance global readiness against HeV and other bat-borne pathogens.16 Conclusions Preventing future HeV outbreaks requires proactive, transdisciplinary action. Surveillance efforts must include ecological monitoring of reservoir species to enable early warning. Protecting and restoring bat habitats can further reduce humananimal interface and address root causes of spillover. A One Health approach, which combines veterinary science, ecology, climatology, public health, and social sciences, is essential for developing and implementing effective prevention strategies. Integrating ecological preservation with targeted surveillance and cross-sector collaboration has the potential to build stronger resilience against HeV and other emerging zoonotic threats driven by global environmental change. References Christopher C. Broder et al. (2013). A treatment for and vaccine against the deadly Hendra and Nipah viruses. Antiviral Research, 100 (1):8-13. DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2013.06.012, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166354213001691 Yuen KY et al. (2021). Hendra virus: Epidemiology dynamics in relation to climate change, diagnostic tests and control measures. One Health,12:100207. DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100207. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352771420303086?via%3Dihub Kessler MK et al. (2018). Changing resource landscapes and spillover of henipaviruses. Ann N Y Acad Sci., 1429(1):78-99. DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13910. https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nyas.13910 Christina L. Faust. (2023). Environmental variation across multiple spatial scales and temporal lags influences Hendra virus spillover. Journal of Applied Ecology, 60, 14571467. DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14415. https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2664.14415 Broder CC, Weir DL, Reid PA. (2016). Hendra virus and Nipah virus animal vaccines. Vaccine, 34 (30) 3525-34. DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.03.075. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0264410X1630072X Walsh, M.G., Wiethoelter, A. & Haseeb, M.A. (2017). The impact of human population pressure on flying fox niches and the potential consequences for Hendra virus spillover. Sci Rep 7, 8226. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08065-z. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-08065-z Baranowski K, Bharti N. (2023). Habitat loss for black flying foxes and implications for Hendra virus. Landsc Ecol., 38(6):1605-1618. DOI: 10.1007/s10980-023-01642-w. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10980-023-01642-w Eby P et al. (2023). Pathogen spillover driven by rapid changes in bat ecology. Nature, 613(7943):340-344. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05506-2. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05506-2 Goldspink LK, Edson DW, Vidgen ME, Bingham J, Field HE, and Smith CS. (2015). Natural Hendra Virus Infection in Flying-Foxes - Tissue Tropism and Risk Factors. PLoS One, 10(6):e0128835. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128835. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0128835 Edson D et al. (2015). Routes of Hendra Virus Excretion in Naturally-Infected Flying-Foxes: Implications for Viral Transmission and Spillover Risk. PLoS ONE, 10(10): e0140670. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140670. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0140670 Hazelton, B., Ba Alawi, F., Kok, J., and Dwyer, D. E. (2013). Hendra Virus: A One Health Tale of Flying Foxes, Horses and Humans. Future Microbiology, 8(4), 461474. DOI: 10.2217/fmb.13.19. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.2217/fmb.13.19 Jessica N Kropich-Grant, Kerrie E Wiley, Jennifer Manyweathers, Kirrilly R Thompson, and Victoria J Brookes. (2023). Communication Interventions and Assessment of Drivers for Hendra Virus Vaccination Uptake. Vaccines, 11, 936. DOI: 10.3390/ vaccines11050936. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/11/5/936 Middleton D. (2014). Hendra virus. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract., 30(3):579-89. DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2014.08.004. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749073914000625?via%3Dihub Plowright RK et al. (2024). Ecological countermeasures to prevent pathogen spillover and subsequent pandemics. Nat Commun., ;15(1):2577. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46151-9. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46151-9 Middleton D et al. (2014). Hendra virus vaccine, a one health approach to protecting horse, human, and environmental health. Emerg Infect Dis.;20(3):372-9. DOI: 10.3201/eid2003.131159. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/20/3/13-1159_article Jagadesh S. et al. (2025). Mapping global risk of bat and rodent-borne disease outbreaks to anticipate emerging threats. Sci Rep.;15(1):20534. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-05588-8. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-05588-8 Further Reading News / National by Staff reporter Magistrate Evia Matura is under legal scrutiny after she unlawfully released Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist and legislator Obert Manduna from custody, the National Prosecution Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA) revealed in a statement on Monday.Matura appeared in court on July 19 and was granted bail set at US$200. The court imposed strict conditions, including a ban on interfering with witnesses, a restriction to reside at a specified address, prohibition from visiting Tredgold Magistrates' Court, and a requirement to report fortnightly to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) offices.The 47-year-old magistrate, employed by the Judicial Service Commission at Bulawayo's Tredgold Magistrates' Court, faces a charge of criminal abuse of duty under section 174 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.According to the State, on July 2, 2025, Matura unlawfully remanded Manduna, who was then incarcerated at Khami Remand Prisons, out of custody in case CRB ACC 17/2025. This was despite her earlier decision on June 25, 2025, to deny Manduna bail in the same matter.ZACC's statement notes that Matura took the action without hearing a new bail application based on changed circumstances, and no bail receipt or High Court order authorising Manduna's release was presented.The prosecution alleges that Matura's conduct demonstrated favouritism towards Manduna, resulting in his unauthorized release. The case remains ongoing as the judiciary and prosecuting authorities continue their investigations. In a wholly new approach to cancer treatment, Northwestern University biomedical engineers have doubled the effectiveness of chemotherapy in animal experiments. Instead of attacking cancer directly, the first-of-its-kind strategy prevents cancer cells from evolving to withstand treatment - making the disease easier to target with existing drugs. Not only did the approach fully wipe out the disease to near completion in cellular cultures, but it also dramatically increased the effectiveness of chemotherapy in mouse models of human ovarian cancer. The study was published today (July 22) in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. "Cancer cells are great adapters," said Northwestern's Vadim Backman, who led the study. "They can adapt to almost anything that's thrown at them. First, they learn to evade the immune system. Then, they learn how to adapt to chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation. When they resist these treatments, they live longer and acquire mutations. We did not set out to directly kill cancer cells. We wanted to take away their superpower - removing their inherent abilities to adapt, to change and to evade." Backman is the Sachs Family Professor Biomedical Engineering and Medicine at Northwestern's McCormick School of Engineering, where he directs the Center for Physical Genomics and Engineering. He also is a member of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern University, the Chemistry of Life Processes Institute and the International Institute for Nanotechnology. Chromatin is key to cancer's survival Cancer has many distinctive features, but one trait underlies them all: its relentless ability to survive. Even as it is bombarded by the immune system and harsh medical treatments, cancer might shrink or slow its growth, but it rarely disappears. While genetic mutations contribute to this resistance, mutations occur much too slowly to explain cancer cells' rapid survival response. In a series of studies, Backman and his team discovered a fundamental mechanism that explains this ability. The intricate organization of genetic material, called chromatin, dictates cancer's ability to adapt and survive in the face of the most potent drugs. Chromatin - a group of macromolecules including DNA, RNA and proteins - determines which genes are suppressed or expressed. To fit the two meters of DNA that comprises the genome within just one hundredth of a millimeter of space inside a cell's nucleus, chromatin is packed extremely tight. Through a combination of imaging, simulations, systems modeling and in vivo experiments, Backman's team discovered that the three-dimensional architecture of this packing not only controls which genes are expressed and how cells respond to stress, but it also allows cells to physically encode memories of gene transcription patterns into the geometry of the packing itself. The genome's 3D arrangement acts like a self-learning system, much like a machine learning algorithm. As it learns, this arrangement constantly reshapes into thousands of nanoscopic chromatin packing domains. Each domain stores part of a cell's transcriptional memory, which dictates how the cell functions. Throughout one's life, these cell-specific chromatin domains are formed, strengthened by cellular experiences, stored and rewritten. Problems with this transcriptional memory can lead to diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease and might even drive aging. In the case of cancer, when chromatin packing is disordered, a cell demonstrates more plasticity - or an increased ability to adapt - enabling them to learn to resist treatments such as chemotherapy. Reprogramming chromatin to boost chemotherapy In the new study, Backman and his team developed a new computational model that uses physics to analyze how chromatin packing influences a cancer cell's odds of survival against chemotherapy. After applying the new model to various types of cancer cells and chemotherapy drug classes, the team found it could accurately predict cell survival - before treatment even began. Because chromatin packing is critical for cancer cell survival, the researchers wondered what might happen if they changed the packing architecture. Instead of developing new drugs, they screened hundreds of existing drug compounds to find candidates that could alter the physical environment inside cell nuclei to modulate chromatin packing. Ultimately, the team selected celecoxib, an FDA-approved anti-inflammatory drug that is already on the market. Often prescribed to treat arthritis and heart conditions, celecoxib has a side effect of altering chromatin packing. Several drugs, including celecoxib, can regulate chromatin and repress plasticity. With this approach, we now can design strategies that synergize with chemotherapy or other existing therapies. The important finding is the concept itself. This particular drug just proves the point." Vadim Backman, Northwestern University "This study opens up novel therapeutic avenues to treat cancer that can supplement existing treatments," said Rachel Ye, a graduate student in Backman's laboratory. "It is exciting to see how we are unraveling the mysteries of genome organization through multidisciplinary approaches, and this paper is a strong result of that effort." Experimental results According to Backman, celecoxib and similar drugs could become a new class of compounds, called Transcriptional Plasticity Regulators (TPRs), designed to modulate chromatin conformation to prevent cancer cells' adaptive abilities. The researchers found that combining celecoxib with standard chemotherapy caused a substantial increase in the number of cancer cells that died. After proving its effectiveness in cellular cultures, Backman and his team wanted to demonstrate its potential in a more realistic biological system. The team combined paclitaxel (a common chemotherapy drug) with celecoxib in a mouse model of ovarian cancer. The experiments revealed that the combination reduced the cancer cells' adaptation rates and improved the inhibition of tumor growth - outperforming paclitaxel alone. "The animal model that we used has incredible predictive power for what happens in humans," Backman said. "When we treated them with a low dose of chemotherapy, the tumors continued to grow. But, as soon as we combined the chemotherapy with the TPR candidate, we saw much more significant inhibition. It doubled the efficacy." By making chemotherapy more effective, the new strategy potentially could also enable physicians to prescribe lower doses of chemotherapy for their patients. Lower, yet still effective, doses could reduce the burden of chemotherapy's infamously difficult side effects. That would mark a significant improvement in patients' overall comfort and experience during cancer treatment. "Chemotherapy can be so hard on the body," Backman said. "A lot of patients, quite understandably, sometimes choose to forego chemotherapy. They don't want to suffer in order to live a few months longer. Maybe reducing that suffering would change the equation." Future directions for other diseases Backman only has focused on cancer so far, but he thinks modulating chromatin conformation might be the key to treating various complex diseases, including heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases and more. Although most cells in a multicellular organism share the exact same genome, there are hundreds of cell types such as bone, neurons, skin, heart tissue, blood and so on. Understanding the physical rules governing how so many different types of cells, with such different functions, can result from the same instruction set is crucial; the conformation of chromatin and the cellular transcriptional memory are what allow all of these different cell types to "remember" which genes to express in order to perform their particular cellular function properly and to work coherently with the cells around them. Backman posits that some complex diseases, rather than being caused entirely by genetic mutations, may be rooted both in mutations and in cells' losing their correct transcriptional memories. The loss of a cell type-specific transcriptional lineage in neurons has been associated with early stage neurodegeneration, for example. Cells can also forget which genes to express for normal function when they undergo stress, and that incorrect expression may then become written into the cellular memory, leading to loss of cell function or even disease. Reprogramming chromatin conformation could help restore cells' correct memories, potentially enabling them to return to a normal state. "In many diseases, cells forget what they should be doing," Backman said. "Many impactful diseases of the 21st century are, to a large extent, related to cell memory. Each cell in our body has several thousand chromatin domains, which are actual physical elements of transcriptional memory. The computational complexity that happens in every single cell is equivalent to a 1984 Apple computer. Cells maintain memory for a long time, but they can also develop spurious memories or lose memories. Cancer cells take that to the extreme. I think what we have found here is the source code of cell memory." The study, "Leveraging chromatin packing domains to target chemoevasion in vivo," was supported by the National Institutes of Health (grant numbers U54CA268084, U54CA193419, R01CA228272, R01CA225002, R01CA155284, R01CA165309, T32GM132604, T32GM008152 and T32HL076139), National Science Foundation (grant numbers EFMA-1830961, EFMA-1830968, EFMA-1830969, CBET-1249311, EFRI-1240416, DGE-0824162 and DGE-184216), the Lefkovsky Innovation Award and the Chicago Biomedical Consortium with support from the Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust. Answer ALS is proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking collaborative initiative aimed at accelerating AI-powered drug discovery for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. This effort, known as the Louisiana AI Drug Development Infrastructure for ALS (LADDIA), brings together leading institutions and innovators, including GATC Health, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, and Tulane University - a tech-bio innovator using validated AI models to accelerate drug discovery from large-scale multiomics data - to harness the power of artificial intelligence and one of the largest ALS datasets in the world. This initiative is made possible through a commitment from the State of Louisiana to advance neuroscience research and innovation across the state. By investing in LADDIA, Louisiana is helping to position itself as a national leader in the convergence of AI and biomedical discovery. At the center of this effort is Dr. Jeffrey Keller of Pennington Biomedical, working in close partnership with Dr. Aron Culotta of Tulane. Together, they will lead a coordinated statewide effort of connecting researchers with expertise in AI, drug discovery, neuroscience, and clinical care, while all working together to drive innovation toward ALS treatments. Currently, there are no known viable treatments for ALS, LADDIA's goal is to help change that trajectory. This is more than a research partnership, it's a strategic investment in the future of ALS discovery. By aligning Louisiana's top talent and institutions with cutting-edge AI tools and our open-access Neuromine Data Portal, we are enabling real-time collaboration that could help identify druggable pathways and translate data into breakthroughs." Clare Durrett, Executive Director of Answer ALS The initiative will roll out in two phases: Phase One focuses on building the collaborative foundation, recruiting local talent, aligning institutional strengths, and preparing the infrastructure for AI-enabled drug discovery. focuses on building the collaborative foundation, recruiting local talent, aligning institutional strengths, and preparing the infrastructure for AI-enabled drug discovery. Phase Two activates the foundation to advance collaborative projects, optimizing AI models, and generating high-impact scientific outputs across participating institutions. "With the gradual adoption of artificial intelligence in applications around the globe, to apply this incredible technology toward the pursuit of treatments for ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases is perhaps the most noble and worthwhile implementation of it," said Dr. Keller, who is the principal investigator of Answer ALS' open access data repository, Neuromine. "The open-access repository of the Neuromine Data Portal will be instrumental in this pursuit, and along with Dr. Culotta, I look forward to collaborating with researchers and AI experts to navigate currently unseen patterns to potential treatments." The ultimate goal is to identify and prioritize therapeutic targets using AI-driven insights from the Answer ALS' Neuromine Data Portal, the largest open-access ALS dataset in the world. "GATC is proud to partner in this important mission to leverage our proprietary AI platform to identify druggable ALS targets with high predictive accuracy," said a GATC Health president Dr. Rahul Gupta. "We believe this alliance of research data, academia and advanced AI is the new model for rapid discovery of novel therapeutics to treat diseases currently lacking effective treatment. The biomarkers identified through this collaboration will be shared with the research community, while also enabling GATC to pursue therapeutic development based on these discoveries." Benchmarks for the initiative include joint research publications, data-driven discoveries, and a shared roadmap for long-term collaboration, positioning Louisiana as a leader in AI-driven medical innovation. The model being driven by LADDIA and GATC also represents a scalable framework for applying AI to other complex diseases, from Alzheimer's to chronic pain, through public-private partnerships. "This important collaboration highlights the power of AI to transform healthcare," said Dr. Culotta. "Combining Tulane's expertise in AI and biomedical research with partners across the state, we aim to accelerate AI-driven solutions for ALS and other health challenges." Answer ALS remains committed to building the tools, data, and partnerships needed to end ALS. With the launch of LADDIA, another chapter in that mission begins. New genetic research shows a simple genetic test can predict whos most at risk for obesity, offering hope for early prevention, but also raises tough questions about genetic fairness and healthcare access. Study: Polygenic prediction of body mass index and obesity through the life course and across ancestries. Image credit: Andrii Yalanskyi/Shutterstock.com A recent study in Nature Medicine developed ancestry-specific and multi-ancestry polygenic scores (PGSs) for early prevention and targeted treatment of obesity. Researchers highlighted that PGSs could be implemented early in life to prevent obesity. However, performance of PGSs can vary significantly across different populations, and careful implementation is necessary to avoid widening health disparities. Obesity - a major public health threat Obesity is a chronic medical condition characterized by the accumulation of excessive body fat. It is considered a significant public health concern because it enhances the risk of developing many chronic diseases, which may reduce life expectancy. According to a recent prediction, more than half of the global population would become overweight or obese by 2035. Although scientists have developed multiple strategies to combat obesity, including intensive lifestyle interventions (ILIs), weight loss medications, and bariatric surgery, the associated risks of these approaches and inaccessibility to most people have limited their widespread implementation. Therefore, it is essential to develop an effective strategy that could help prevent obesity. Many children develop obesity, which may persist into their adulthood. Therefore, early predictors, such as genetic variants, could be extremely valuable in preventing obesity. Previous studies have highlighted the potential of PGSs in disease risk prediction and population screening. This predictive quality is based on their ability to capture an individuals inherited polygenic susceptibility to a trait or disease. It is essential to examine the circumstances in which PGSs for obesity may be helpful in risk prediction. A previous study demonstrated the use of PGSs for obesity based on a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of BMI in over 339,000 people of predominantly European ancestry. However, a PGS based on one ancestry population may not accurately reflect other ancestry populations. Using PGSs developed primarily in one ancestry group may result in lower prediction accuracy and worsen health inequities if not carefully addressed. About the study The current study exploited the findings of GWAS meta-analyses to develop a PGS for BMI. GWAS meta-analysis included summary statistics for BMI from over 200 studies from the GIANT consortium and 23andMe. The GWAS summary statistics encompassed over 5.1 million individuals from diverse populations. This diverse population included 71.1% of participants with European ancestry, 14.4% of Hispanic ethnicity with typically admixed ancestries, 8.4% of East Asian ancestry, 4.6% of African origin, and 1.5% with South Asian ancestry. Participants with closely aligned genetic relationships were grouped and referred to as having European-like ancestry (EUR), African-like ancestry (AFR), East Asian-like ancestry (EAS), American-like ancestry (AMR), and South Asian-like ancestry (SAS). It is worth noting that the authors acknowledged these groupings oversimplify the actual genetic diversity among participants. PRS-CS(x), a standard method for generating cross-population polygenetic risk scores, was used to develop ancestry-specific and multi-ancestry PGSs leveraging up to 1.3 million common variants. Study findings The current study identified the optimal genome-wide shrinkage parameter and linear combination weights for PRS-CS(x) that demonstrated highest explained variance for BMI in six ancestry subpopulations of the UK Biobank (UKBB), including individuals of Middle Eastern-like ancestry (MID). A random subset of 20,000 unrelated individuals was used for the EUR-tuning population. A multi-ancestry PGS that comprised five ancestry-specific PGSs (PGS LC ) generated best prediction scores. Compared to PGSs trained only with GWAS summary statistics, multi-ancestry PGS exhibited higher explained variance for BMI, ranging between 7.2% (AFR) and 17.5% (EUR), with a median of 14.0%. Except for the East Asian-like and European-like ancestry, performance of a PGS containing genome-wide significant variants was generally intermediate to that of the ancestry-matched and multi-ancestry PGSs. The prediction accuracy of PGS LC for BMI and obesity was also assessed in independent validation populations of 482,135 participants, from the UKBB, the Million Veteran Program (MVP), the Uganda General Population Cohort (GPC-UGR), and the BioMe Biobank. The current study highlighted that prevalence of obesity varies significantly across populations and cohorts. It must be noted that the mean BMI ranged between 22.2 kg m2 and 30.6 kg m2. The performance of the PGS LC was highest in participants with EUR ancestry from the UKBB, with an explained variance of 17.6%. In contrast, a lower PGS LC performance was found for African-like ancestry with explained variance of 6.3%, 5.1% in African American populations, and 2.2% in the GPC-UGR population from rural southwestern Uganda. Within EUR from the UKBB participants, the explained variance was marginally higher in males than in females. It was also found to be higher in younger participants than in those belonging to advanced age groups. Within the EUR population, the PGS LC demonstrated improved performance in differentiating between participants with and without obesity. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) increased with severity of obesity. The AUC for PGS LC was significantly larger on its own. BMI in children with higher genetic predisposition (PGS 10th percentile) increased faster than in those with lower genetic predisposition. The added value of the PGS for predicting BMI was greatest at a very young age, particularly up to age five, before BMI becomes a strong predictor of later obesity. In older children, measured BMI provides much of the predictive information, and the incremental value of PGS is smaller. Children's higher mean PGS is a well-established predictor of future obesity risk. To predict BMI in early adulthood, PGS in the first few years after birth was found to be a more reliable obesity predictor. PGS was also much more predictive of BMI than other body composition traits, such as body fat percentage or waist-to-hip ratio. The current study indicated that individuals with a higher PGS LC underwent greater weight loss during the first year in response to the ILI than the control group. However, these individuals were also more likely to regain weight after the first year, highlighting the importance of ongoing support for weight maintenance among those at higher genetic risk. Importantly, the authors stress that a higher genetic risk, measured by PGS, does not mean that obesity is inevitable. Individuals with a higher PGS may be particularly responsive to changes in environment and lifestyle interventions, and preventative strategies can be effective. The researchers caution that implementation of PGS-based risk tools must account for differences in predictive performance across populations, especially to avoid worsening health inequities among underrepresented groups such as those of African ancestry. There is future potential for PGSs to guide lifestyle interventions and new weight loss drug therapies, though more research is needed. Conclusions The current study demonstrates the potential of BMI PGSs as a tool for predicting adult obesity throughout life, particularly in early life. This tool can identify individuals at high risk of obesity, enabling the timely and effective implementation of preventive strategies. However, the use of PGS in clinical or public health practice must be accompanied by careful attention to population differences and ethical considerations of genetic risk prediction. Download your PDF copy now! A $1.1 million grant from the parent-caregiver-led Rare Bird Foundation to Weill Cornell Medicine is supporting the launch of a natural history study for a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that causes developmental delays and seizures called MEF2C Haploinsufficiency syndrome (MCHS). Currently, there are no specific therapies for MCHS, which affects about 400 people worldwide. Patients with the condition may experience developmental delays, difficulties communicating, and frequent seizures. The goal of the study, coined the Volare Study, is to collect vital information about the condition to lay the necessary groundwork for future clinical trials of therapies for MCHS. "The drive for this study comes from the parents of children with MCHS," said principal investigator Dr. Zachary Grinspan, director of the Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Weill Cornell Medicine and vice chair of health data science for the Department of Pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian Komansky Children's Hospital of Children's Hospital of New York. "They share a sense of urgency to bring treatments to their kids and to others who have the disease. It makes the work very personal and meaningful for our team." Dr. Grinspan will conduct the study with co-principal investigator Dr. M. Elizabeth Ross, the Nathan Cummings Professor of Neurology and head of the Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Development in the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute at Weill Cornell Medicine. They lead a multidisciplinary team that includes Dr. Jennifer Cross, a developmental pediatrician; Dr. Dara Jones, a pediatrician and physiatrist; and Ji-Sun Kim, a genetic counselor; as well as dedicated research staff Amelia Stone, Natalie Wayland and Natasha Basma. NewYork-Presbyterian provides additional support from their occupational therapy team to conduct assessments. Dr. Grinspan worked closely with the parent-advocates at the U.S.-based Rare Bird Foundation to meticulously plan the study. It will include an online registry, virtual patient cohort, and in-person cohort of patients who will travel to New York for medical and behavioral exams and collection of patient samples. The foundation will help offset family travel costs. Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center were recently designated a Rare Disease Center of Excellence by the National Organization for Rare Disorders, making it an ideal home for the Volare Study. There is a spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary work that is part of our DNA at Weill Cornell Medicine." Dr. Zachary Grinspan, Director, Pediatric Epilepsy Program, Weill Cornell Medicine In that spirit, a multidisciplinary team of clinicians and investigators will conduct intensive evaluations of each child participating in the study over multiple visits to provide baseline developmental trajectory information critical for measuring the benefits of new therapies in future clinical trials. For example, it should provide information on the normal progression of the condition, such as whether children's symptoms plateau or continue to worsen over time. Clinical trial investigators can use this information to create meaningful endpoints for clinical trials and measure how therapies alter the course of the disease. The Volare Study also establishes the infrastructure, clinician and scientific collaborations, and patient cohorts that will be needed to get future multicenter, multinational clinical trials running quickly for experimental therapies that are already in development. "Together with our international collaborators, we look forward to expanding the Volare Study across the globe and showcasing our patient population's eagerness to change the course of this devastating disease," said Isra Bhatty, director for strategic partnerships at the Rare Bird Foundation. Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy in the United Kingdom (UK), claiming approximately 3000 lives each year, corresponding to at least two percent of all cancer-related deaths.1 Image Credit: Nemes Laszlo/Shutterstock.com MM often goes undetected until its later stages because it presents with non-specific symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, bone pain, and recurrent infections.2,3 However, better awareness, timely diagnosis, and effective management of this challenging condition could help to improve patient outcomes. In fact, early diagnosis has the potential to be the most effective improvement in management available for MM patients, offering them the best chances of a better quality of life and long-term survival. This article examines the current challenges in diagnosing MM, and how advances in diagnostic technologiesand the systemic changes needed to introduce themcould help patients suffering from this disease. Understanding multiple myeloma MM is a malignant cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are a subset of white blood cells responsible for producing antibodies to combat infections, but when these cells become cancerous, they produce large amounts of monoclonal proteins (M proteins)commonly known as paraproteinsthat lack the ability to defend against infections.3 Furthermore, the proliferation of cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow suppresses the production of healthy blood cells, leading to low counts of red blood cells, other white blood cells, and platelets.3,4 MM can affect bones throughout the body, including the spine, skull, pelvis, and ribs, with symptoms caused by both the growth of the tumour itself (and its effects on the bone structure and the bone marrow microenvironment), and the effect of the monoclonal proteins on other organs. Even advanced MM symptoms are often non-specific and may be mistaken for the effects of aging or other diseases, leading to delayed diagnosis. Common signs include bone pain (especially in the back or ribs), fatigue, infections, weight loss, and breathlessness.3 As the disease advances, complications such as renal failure, high calcium levels, and bone lesions may developsummarized by the CRAB criteria: calcium elevation, renal dysfunction, anemia, and bone disease.5 MM typically affects those over 65, though its symptoms and progression can vary.6 Many patients are first diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor condition where plasma cells produce paraproteins without causing organ damage.7 Although MGUS is often discovered incidentally during routine blood tests, it carries a slightly reduced survival rate compared to healthy individuals, with around one percent progressing to MM each year.8 Regular monitoring is vital, as early detection of progression to symptomatic myeloma can prevent organ damage and improve outcomes. Image Credit: Nemes Laszlo/Shutterstock.com A heterogenous disease Excessive paraprotein production is a hallmark of multiple myeloma (MM), but the condition encompasses several distinct subtypes.9 The majority of MM cases (over 80 percent) involve the excessive production of an intact monoclonal immunoglobulin, most frequently of the IgG class, followed by IgA and then IgM. Alongside these subtypes, rarer forms marked by the overproduction of less common immunoglobulins such as IgD and IgE myelomas exist.10 These rare variants are often more aggressive than IgG and IgA types, requiring specific diagnostic strategies to identify and manage the disease effectively.11,12 In contrast, non-secretory myelomaa rare subtype affecting one to two percent of patientsis characterized by the production of little to no detectable paraproteins by traditional techniques.13 In addition to intact monoclonal immunoglobulins, many myeloma subtypes also produce other paraproteins, such as free light chains of the kappa () or lambda () types. In cases of light chain-only myelomawhich accounts for over 15% of patientsthe disease is defined by the exclusive overproduction of these free light chains. When excreted in urine, they are commonly known as Bence Jones proteins. The presence of serum free light chains (sFLC) is clinically significant and often associated with renal complications, including cast nephropathy and AL amyloidosis. Given the wide variability in myeloma subtypes, a tailored diagnostic and treatment strategy is essential for effective management. The importance of early diagnosis The treatment landscape for MM has undergone a significant transformation over the last two decades, driven by a deeper understanding of its molecular biology. However, early diagnosis remains a crucial element in optimal patient management. Advances in MM treatment, including the development of therapies such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators and monoclonal antibodies, have dramatically extended median survival times from around three years to eight to ten years. Yet, the complex and heterogeneous nature of the disease means that survival rates are heavily influenced by the stage at which it is diagnosed.15 Proactive detection of MM gives clinicians more opportunities to intervene before more significant complications arise, such as renal failure or vertebral fractures, significantly improving quality of life and survival. What's more, studies have shown that early-stage MM is less genetically diverse than advanced MM,16 making it more responsive to treatment. This means that treatment can start with less aggressive strategies, which are more tolerable for patients and reduce the potential for harmful side effects. Essentially, the earlier MM is identified, the more options are available to manage it effectively and prevent severe complications, thereby improving patient outcomes. Image Credit: Lightspring/Shutterstock.com Establishing diagnostic criteria While routine blood tests can flag early indicators of MM, such as anemia or elevated total protein levels, further investigations are required to accurately detect the production of a monoclonal protein, such as serum and urine electrophoresis, and sFLC analysis. Additionally, advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, may be employed to identify bone lesions or other organ involvement. The International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) first established formal diagnostic criteria for multiple myeloma (MM) and its precursor condition in 2003,17 with an update in 2014 that introduced new diagnostic markers to support earlier and more accurate detection.5 In 2009, the IMWG also recommended replacing traditional urine analysis with serum free light chain (sFLC) testing in all myeloma investigations.18 This guidance has since been echoed by other bodies, including NICE (NG35)19 in 2016 and the British Society for Haematology (BSH)20 in 2022, both of which support sFLC testing as a preferred alternative to urine testing. The diagnosis of MGUS is made when serum paraprotein levels are below 30 g/L, abnormal plasma cells make up less than 10 % of bone marrow cells, and there is no evidence of organ damage. In contrast, a diagnosis of active MM requires the presence of at least 10 % clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow along with one or more myeloma-defining events, as outlined in the CRAB or SLiM criteria. The SLiM criteria identifies MM in patients who meet any of the following: 60 % clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow A serum involved/uninvolved free light chain (FLC) ratio of 100, where the involved FLC is at least 100 mg/L Imaging evidence of one or more focal lesions measuring 5 mm or larger Together, these evolving diagnostic standards highlight the importance of integrating advanced testing methods to support early and accurate diagnosis. Improving diagnosis with sFLC assays Traditionally, serum and urine protein electrophoresis have been the mainstay methods for detecting paraproteins. However, urine electrophoresis has notable limitationsit lacks sensitivity, depends on the presence of free light chains in the urine, and is contingent on patient compliance in providing samples. These issues often lead to missed or delayed detection of light chain paraproteins, making the method unreliable for timely diagnosis. To improve diagnostic accuracy, the IMWG (Dispenzieri 2009)18, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) 201619, and the BSH in 202220, updated their recommendations advising the replacement of urine electrophoresis with sFLC assays. These blood-based tests offer higher sensitivity and precision and, because blood samples are routinely collected from all patients suspected of MM, they eliminate logistical challenges associated with urine collection. Unlike urine tests, sFLC assays can detect monoclonal free light chains in up to 97 percent of MM patients, making them especially useful in identifying light chain and non-secretory myelomaforms that often evade traditional methods due to low biomarker levels or lack of secretion.21,22 Diagnosing non-secretory myeloma is particularly difficult because it features low levels of paraprotein in the serum, often below the detection capabilities of standard tests. sFLC assays overcome this by quantifying free and light chains in the blood and identifying abnormal / ratiosa strong indicator of clonal plasma cell activity. These abnormal ratios have been found in around 70 percent of non-secretory myeloma cases, making sFLC a critical diagnostic tool for detecting this elusive subtype even when traditional paraprotein tests fail.23 Despite these proven benefits, sFLC assays are still not widely used in the early detection of MM. Many UK hospitals remain confined to monitoring disease progression, despite NICE, the British Society for Haematology (BSH), and the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) advocating their use for initial diagnosis.18-20 This highlights a significant gap between clinical guidelines and real-world practices. Frustratingly, budgetary constraints are often responsible for preventing labs from adopting sFLC assays for early diagnosis of MM, despite the best practice guidelines and clear evidence from trusts across the UK that have gone down this path. Healthcare systems and policymakers have the power to overcome this hurdle but need to recognize the long-term savings and key patient benefits associated with early diagnosis and realign budgets accordingly. Reallocating funds to prioritize prompt diagnosis is a complex but necessary step toward creating a more effective and patient-centric healthcare system. Encouragingly, many UK labs are already equipped to drive this transformation. Freelite assaysperformed on the Optilite* automated analyzerare already widely used for monitoring MM patients, yet their diagnostic potential remains largely underutilized. These tests were introduced in 2001 as the first commercially available automated immunoassay of their kind, and they were purposely designed to enhance diagnostic precision and reduce delays. Expanding the application of Freelite assays from monitoring to investigative purposes would therefore require minimal additional investment, as the necessary infrastructure is already in place. This small shift could yield major improvements, since automated testing enhances precision, reduces manual errors, streamlines workflows, and enables earlier detection, helping to minimise the costs and clinical burden of late-stage MM. Spearheading the future of myeloma diagnostics There has been significant progress in understanding and diagnosing MM, but healthcare systems have been slow to adopt best practices for early detection. Tools like sFLC assays, routinely used for monitoring, remain underutilized for diagnosis, despite their potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce costs associated with late-stage disease. Achieving meaningful change requires healthcare systems to prioritize timely detection, improve cross-department collaboration, and shift budgets toward preventive care. Industry leaders such as Binding Site, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, are instrumental in this shift, providing both advanced diagnostics and the advocacy needed to support widespread adoption, ultimately delivering better patient care. Embracing early diagnosis as the optimal solution for managing MM enables stakeholders to create a future where patients receive timely, life-enhancing care, while also alleviating the burden of late-stage disease on already overstretched healthcare systems. *Optilite and Freelite are registered trademarks of The Binding Site Group Ltd (Birmingham, UK) in certain countries. Not for use in the United States or China. References NationalInstituteforHealthandCareExcellence (2025). CKS is only available in the UK | NICE. (online) NICE. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/multiple-myeloma/background-information/prevalence (Accessed 18 Jul. 2025). NationalInstituteforHealthandCareExcellence (2025). CKS is only available in the UK | NICE. (online) NICE. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/multiple-myeloma/diagnosis/when-should-i-suspect-multiple-myeloma/https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/multiple-myeloma/background-information/prevalence (Accessed 18 Jul. 2025). Cancer Research UK. Myeloma symptoms | Cancer Research UK. (online) Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/myeloma/symptoms. Myeloma UK. Ask the Nurse: Myeloma and blood cells. (online) Available at: https://www.myeloma.org.uk/library/ask-the-nurse-myeloma-and-blood-cells/. Rajkumar, S.V., et al. (2014). International Myeloma Working Group updated criteria for the diagnosis of multiple myeloma. The Lancet. Oncology, 15(12), pp.e538-548. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1470-2045(14)70442-5. Myeloma UK. MGUS. (online) Available at: https://www.myeloma.org.uk/understanding-myeloma/related-conditions/mgus/. Ji, M., et al. (2023). Mortality in the US Populations With Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance. JAMA Oncology, 9(9), pp.12931293. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoncol.2023.2278. Hevroni, G., et al. (2024). From MGUS to multiple myeloma: Unraveling the unknown of precursor states. Blood Reviews, pp.101242101242. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.blre.2024.101242. International Myeloma Foundation (2021). Types of Myeloma. (online) International Myeloma Foundation. Available at: https://www.myeloma.org/types-of-myeloma. Pandey, S. and Kyle, R.A. (2013). Unusual myelomas: a review of IgD and IgE variants. Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.), (online) 27(8), pp.798803. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24133829/. Agbuduwe, C., et al. (2022). Clinical characteristics and outcomes of IgD myeloma: experience across UK national trials. Blood Advances, 6(17), pp.51135123. https://doi.org/10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007608. Beatriz Nafria Jimenez and Raquel Oliveros Conejero (2021). IgE multiple myeloma: detection and follow-up. Advances in Laboratory Medicine / Avances en Medicina de Laboratorio, (online) 3(1), pp.7984. https://doi.org/10.1515/almed-2021-0087. Brioli, A., et al. (2014). Serum free immunoglobulin light chain evaluation as a marker of impact from intraclonal heterogeneity on myeloma outcome. Blood, 123(22), pp.34143419. https://doi.org/10.1182/blood-2013-12-542662. Leung, N., et al. (2008). Improvement of cast nephropathy with plasma exchange depends on the diagnosis and on reduction of serum free light chains. Kidney International, (online) 73(11), pp.12821288. https://doi.org/10.1038/ki.2008.108. Cancer Research UK (2023). Survival | Myeloma | Cancer research UK. (online) Cancer Research UK. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/myeloma/survival. Bong and Esa, E. (2023). Molecular genetic aberrations in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma. Asian Biomedicine, (online) 17(4), pp.152162. https://doi.org/10.2478/abm-2023-0056. Criteria for the classification of monoclonal gammopathies, multiple myeloma and related disorders: a report of the International Myeloma Working Group. (2003). British Journal of Haematology, (online) 121(5), pp.749757. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2141.2003.04355.x. Dispenzieri, A., et al. (2008). International Myeloma Working Group guidelines for serum-free light chain analysis in multiple myeloma and related disorders. Leukemia, 23(2), pp.215224. https://doi.org/10.1038/leu.2008.307. NICE (2016). Overview | Myeloma: diagnosis and management | Guidance | NICE. (online) NICE. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng35. Sive, J., et al. (2021). Guidelines on the diagnosis, investigation and initial treatment of myeloma: a British Society for Haematology/UK Myeloma Forum Guideline. British Journal of Haematology, 193(2), pp.245268. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjh.17410. Katzmann, J.A., et al. (2009). Screening Panels for Detection of Monoclonal Gammopathies. Clinical Chemistry, 55(8), pp.15171522. https://doi.org/10.1373/clinchem.2009.126664. Dejoie, T., et al. (2016). Serum free light chains, not urine specimens, should be used to evaluate response in light-chain multiple myeloma. Blood, (online) 128(25), pp.29412948. https://doi.org/10.1182/blood-2016-07-726778. Drayson, M., et al. (2001). Serum free light-chain measurements for identifying and monitoring patients with nonsecretory multiple myeloma. Blood, 97(9), pp.29002902. https://doi.org/10.1182/blood.v97.9.2900. Author biography Dale Powner is the Country Manager for the UK, Ireland and Nordics at Binding Site, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, a company that provides products and solutions for diagnosing and monitoring blood cancers and immune system disorders. Since joining the company in 2010, Dale has held diverse roles, from Medical Science Liaison to Business Development Manager. He now leads regional operations, focusing on advancing diagnostics, promoting early detection and improving patient outcomes, particularly in multiple myeloma and related conditions. About Binding Site Binding Site, Part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, is committed to improving patient lives worldwide through education, collaboration and innovation. Binding Site provide diagnostic solutions that help doctors, clinicians and laboratory researchers across the globe diagnose and monitor blood cancers and immune system disorders. Founded by researchers at the University of Birmingham, Binding Site has continued to build on its strong scientific foundations, supporting research and development within its field and responding to the changing needs of patients, researchers, and clinicians for over 30 years. Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments. World Health Day is observed each year on April 7th to mark the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. The day serves as a global platform to raise awareness of major health challenges and the efforts being made to address them. In 2019, an estimated 262 million people worldwide were living with asthma, and 9.1 % of those affected were children aged 6 to 7,1 highlighting how early in life this chronic condition can begin. What is World Health Day? World Health Day raises awareness about key health concerns and encourages policies and efforts that improve healthcare access and quality. This is a global collaboration among governments, healthcare groups, and communities to improve health for all. Every year, the WHO chooses a topic that reflects current and global health issues. The theme of 2025 is "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures." This year's topic is pregnancy and early-life health interventions, emphasizing the significance of providing healthcare, education, and resources from infancy to guarantee a healthier future. World Health Day 2025 theme: "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures" While the theme focuses on pregnancy and early life, this article will discuss the need for an early asthma diagnosis in children to ensure they grow up with fewer health complications. What is asthma?2 Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation of the airways, which makes breathing difficult. It can affect people of all ages and usually starts in childhood. There is no cure, but simple treatments are available to help manage the symptoms. Asthma does not need to have a big influence on a person's life. Asthma is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that might change over time. Common symptoms include: Wheezing Breathlessness Chest Tightness Coughing Impact of asthma on children3 Asthma has a tremendous impact on a child's life. Symptoms can affect various aspects of life, such as decreased physical activity, missing school, anxiety, and stress. There are triggers which can cause asthma symptoms in children. Image Credit: NObreath The most prevalent causes include: Cigarette smoke Cold or flu Indoor and outdoor air pollution Allergies Cold, dry air Exercise Every child is different, and so are their asthma triggers. Symptoms dont always appear immediately; sometimes they can take hours to develop after exposure, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause. Once a trigger is identified, the best approach is to avoid it whenever possible. The importance of early diagnosis and monitoring Diagnosing asthma early is critical; many children go undetected or misdiagnosed, resulting in uncontrolled asthma and worsening symptoms over time. Asthma is one of the top three causes of emergency hospital admissions in the United Kingdom, with 75 % of these admissions preventable by implementing simple interventions such as monthly asthma evaluations, proper inhaler technique, and a written asthma action plan.4 Asthma diagnosis in children Traditional asthma tests like spirometry arent always practical for young children, as they may struggle to understand or perform the required breathing manoeuvres. As its non-invasive and easy to administer, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing offers a useful alternative for supporting asthma diagnosis in children. What is a FeNO test? FeNO testing is a non-invasive method for detecting airway inflammation, which is often present in allergic asthma. While small amounts of nitric oxide are normally found in exhaled breath, levels increase when the airways are inflamed. Devices like the NObreath make testing quick and straightforward: the patient simply inhales following an on-screen countdown, then exhales into the device to receive an immediate FeNO result. This test offers direct insight into airway inflammation, supporting more accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment plans. FeNO tests in children In November 2024, the British Thoracic Society (BTS), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) published a joint asthma guideline that recommended FeNO testing as the first-line test for diagnosing asthma in children. According to the revised NICE/BTS/SIGN guidelines, children and young people (ages 5-16) with asthma-like symptoms can be diagnosed if their FeNO values are 35 ppb or above.5 Detecting airway inflammation early is keyit can help prevent severe asthma attacks and support better long-term outcomes. The NObreath FeNO device The NObreath device is designed to make FeNO testing easy, especially for children. Its non-invasive, simple to operate, and features a bright, colourful design that appeals to younger users. The 10-second child mode and on-screen instructions, including engaging incentive animations, help ensure the test is performed correctly. Fully compliant with BTS/NICE/SIGN, American Thoracic Society (ATS), and European Respiratory Society (ERS) guidelines, NObreath offers a reliable way to assess airway inflammation, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed treatment decisions tailored to each childs needs. Image Credit: NObreath Conclusion Asthma can impair a child's physical health, education, and emotional well-being, but with early detection and proper management, children can enjoy healthy, active lives. On World Health Day 2025, let us focus on early asthma detection and help children have healthy beginnings for bright futures. References Global Asthma Network (2022). The Global Asthma Report 2022. (online) Global Asthma Network. Available at: https://globalasthmareport.org/burden/burden.php. WHO (2024). Asthma. (online) World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Childhood asthma: Make a plan to control attacks-Childhood asthma - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic. (online) Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhoodasthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351507 (Accessed 17 Jul. 2025). Jadav, E. (2023). Children and young peoples asthma fact sheet. (online) Transformation Partners in Health and Care. Available at: https://www.transformationpartners.nhs.uk/children-and-young-peoples-asthma-fact-sheet/. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2024). Recommendations | Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management (BTS, NICE, SIGN) | Guidance | NICE. (online) NICE. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245/chapter/Recommendations. About NObreath The NObreath is a FeNO device by Bedfont Scientific Ltd. which can be used to measure airway inflammation for the management and diagnosis of asthma. Our mission is to help improve asthma diagnosis & management of adults and children worldwide through FeNO measuring. Our purpose is to make FeNO measuring more accessible globally, with the creation of an effective yet cost-efficient FeNO device and equally low cost consumables. Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments. Delhi education minister attends orientation at school in Chirag Delhi Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood on Wednesday participated in an orientation programme held for the parents and children of the new academic session at Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya in Chirag Delhi, where he them of the governments commitment to providing a safe, modern and inclusive learning environment in the capitals public schools. Speaking at the event, Sood underlined that every child in Delhi deserves an equal and inspiring educational setting. Recommended Stories The Delhi government is working with full commitment at both the policy and infrastructure levels to raise the standard of education," he said, adding that the all-round development and safety of students remain a top priority. Addressing parents, teachers, and staff during the orientation programme, which included children from nursery, KG and Class I, Sood thanked the families for enrolling their children in government schools and said the presence of parents on campus is a vital part of building trust. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all You should know where your child comes every day, who teaches them, and what kind of environment they receive. These orientation sessions are meant to help you connect with the school and feel confident about the care your child receives here," he said. He said that the government is planning smart classrooms equipped with artificial intelligence, upgraded computer labs and other technologies over the next five years. Children will not only be exposed to new-age learning tools, but will also be equipped to face the future with confidence," he said. PTI SHB MNK MNK First Published: July 24, 2025, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds Delhi education minister attends orientation at school in Chirag Delhi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi Police busts cyber fraud syndicate; key accused arrested from Jaipur Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 22:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) The Delhi Police has busted a syndicate involved in duping people through fake stock market investment schemes and arrested one of its key operatives from Jaipur, an official said on Wednesday. The accused, Vishnu Kant Sharma (24) of Bikaner, Rajasthan, was arrested after a Delhi Polices cyber unit team conducted a raid. Recommended Stories According to the police, the complainant was added to a social media group where he was lured with the promise of guaranteed initial public offering (IPO) allotments at cheaper rates. He was then directed to a fake website and persuaded to invest money in several tranches. Over time, the complainant ended up transferring nearly Rs 40 lakh into various bank accounts," Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Vichitra Veer said. The investigation revealed that the defrauded amount was routed into multiple bank accounts. Technical analysis led the team to the accused in Jaipur. The team traced Sharma to a society in Jaipur and arrested him from the location. Sharma, who had moved to Jaipur in 2018 for government job preparation, initially traded furniture online. Later, he became involved in cyber fraud activities. He allegedly handled mule bank accounts into which cheated funds were transferred and used the funds to buy and sell cryptocurrency. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He used to provide bank accounts sourced through personal contacts and earned commissions in cryptocurrency. He was actively engaged in converting the cheated money into crypto assets and liquidating them," said the DCP. Police said some incriminating material has been recovered from the accused and further efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate. PTI BM BM AMJ AMJ First Published: July 23, 2025, 22:00 IST News agency-feeds Delhi Police busts cyber fraud syndicate; key accused arrested from Jaipur Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi seeks control of ITO barrage from Haryana to avert floods Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) The Delhi government will formally request the Haryana government to hand over control of the ITO barrage on the Yamuna River to bolster the citys flood management, officials said on Wednesday. When the flood hit the city in 2023, one of the factors contributing to it was several dysfunctional gates of the barrage. While the gates at the barrage have been repaired to prevent any flood-like situation like in 2023, and we are monitoring it, we will also be requesting Haryana to hand over," a government official said. Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma has approved the plan and is likely to take the matter up with Haryana, the official said. In the past too, the Delhi government has written to the neighbouring government to hand over the critical barrage. The ITO barrage is closest to the areas prone to flooding often, and malfunctioning of the five gates of the barrage due to heavy silting has been one of its major factors, the official said. As these gates on the east end of the barrage could not be opened at the peak water level of the Yamuna, the pressure was so high that the water started spilling onto areas, roads, and colonies situated along the river in the stretch between Wazirabad and ITO barrage," states an Irrigation and Flood Control department (I&FC) report on the flooding of 2023. There are 32 gates on the ITO barrage. Of the three barrages, the Delhi government controls only one in Wazirabad. The Okhla barrage is under the control of the Uttar Pradesh government. In 2023, due to unprecedented rainfall in the catchment area of the Yamuna, there was a huge runoff in the river. On July 13 that year, the highest flood level (HFL) at 208.66 metres was observed at the Old Railway Bridge, surpassing an earlier HFL of 207.49 metres recorded on September 6, 1978. Several areas were flooded for days, rendering many homeless. PTI SSM VN VN Recommended Stories First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:30 IST News agency-feeds Delhi seeks control of ITO barrage from Haryana to avert floods Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... ED books Myntra, directors in over Rs 1,654-cr FEMA violation case Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday said it has registered a FEMA case against Flipkart-backed e-commerce platform Myntra, linked companies and directors for FDI contravention" of over Rs 1,654 crore. The complaint has been filed under Section 16(3) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act after the federal agency received credible information" that Myntra Designs Private Limited, whose brand name is Myntra, and its related companies are doing multi-brand retail trade in the guise of wholesale cash and carry". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Recommended Stories This is in alleged violation of extant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) guidelines, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said. The case has been registered against the Bengaluru-headquartered Myntra, its linked companies and its directors. PTI NES DIV DIV First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:15 IST News agency-feeds ED books Myntra, directors in over Rs 1,654-cr FEMA violation case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Nomvula Mguni, the Bulawayo Metropolitan Member of Parliament, has fallen victim to theft after thieves broke into her car and stole US$600 along with several personal belongings at a popular stopover on the Harare-Bulawayo highway.The 62-year-old MP had parked her Honda Fit at the Rera Leisure Centre near Snake World at around 3pm while stopping for refreshments. Mguni left her handbag inside the locked vehicle, securing it with a remote control locking system.After enjoying her meal, she proceeded to a nearby hotel where she discovered the theft. Among the items stolen were the cash, a laptop, her handbag, a power bank, a purse containing bank cards, her national identity card, and her Parliament of Zimbabwe identity card.Efforts to reach National Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi for comment were unsuccessful.The theft has been formally reported at the Zimbabwe Republic Police Whitehouse Post under case number RRB 6499339 as investigations continue. Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 21 people, health authorities say Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Deir al-Balah (Gaza Strip), Jul 23 (AP) Israeli strikes in Gaza killed at least 21 people late Tuesday and early Wednesday. More than half of those killed were women and children, health authorities said. Desperation is mounting in the Palestinian territory of more than 2 million, which experts say is at risk of famine because of Israels blockade and nearly two-year offensive. A breakdown of law and order has led to widespread looting and contributed to chaos and violence around aid deliveries. Recommended Stories More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the Gaza Strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor, the UN human rights office said Tuesday. More than 100 human rights groups and charities signed a letter published Wednesday demanding more aid for Gaza and warning of grim conditions causing starvation. More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed during the Israel-Hamas war, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals. Its count doesnt distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. The U.N. and other international organizations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties. Here is the latest: Overnight strikes kill at least 21 One Israeli strike hit a house Tuesday in the northwestern side of Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to the Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The dead included six children and two women, according to the Health Ministrys casualty list. Another strike hit an apartment in the Tal al-Hawa area in northern Gaza, killing at least six people. Among the dead were three children and two women, including one who was pregnant. Eight others were wounded, the ministry said. A third strike hit a tent in the Naser neighborhood in Gaza City late Tuesday and killed three children, Shifa Hospital said. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the strikes. It blames Hamas for civilian casualties because the militants operate from populated areas. Human rights groups and charities demand more Gaza aid In the letter issued Wednesday by 109 human rights and charity groups, they warned of a dire situation pushing more people toward starvation. They said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away." The letter slammed Israel for what it said were restrictions on aid into the war-ravaged territory. It lamented massacres" at food distribution points, which have seen chaos and violence in recent weeks as desperation has risen. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death," the letter said. The letter called for aid to be scaled up as well as for a ceasefire. ` Israel says that it has allowed the entry of thousands of trucks since May and blames aid groups for not consistently delivering goods. (AP) NSA NSA First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:30 IST News agency-feeds Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 21 people, health authorities say Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Odisha CM seeks amicable resolution of Mahanadi water dispute with Chhattisgarh Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 22:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Bhubaneswar, Jul 23 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday said that the ongoing dispute with neighbouring Chhattisgarh over the distribution of Mahanadi water could be amicably resolved through negotiations between both states with the Centres support, an official statement said. Majhi, in a high-level meeting held at the state secretariat Lok Seva Bhavan, emphasised the resolution of the ongoing Mahanadi water dispute with Chhattisgarh. Recommended Stories The chief minister said that since the efforts being made to resolve the problem in the Central Water Commission are progressing slowly, it can be amicably resolved through negotiations between both states with the support of the central government," Majhi was quoted as saying in the statement issued by the CMO. Stating that the Central Water Commission can provide technical support in the negotiations, Majhi said this will resolve the long-standing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh and enhance the relations between the two states. On the sidelines of the All India State Water Resources Ministers Conference held in Rajasthan in February and on the occasion of the World Water Day held in Bhubaneswar in March, the Mahanadi water dispute was discussed between Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bishnu Deo Sai and his Odisha counterpart Mohan Charan Majhi. Both the chief ministers emphasised resolving the issue, it said. Wednesdays meeting reported that discussions are underway between officials of the two states. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Apart from Majhi, the meeting was attended by Advocate General Patrambar Acharya, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary of Water Resources Department Anu Garg, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Saswata Mishra, and senior officers and engineers of the Water Resources Department. The Mahanadi dispute was presently under the consideration of a tribunal. The Odisha government has alleged that Chhattisgarh has blocked the free flow of water in the Mahanadi River by constructing several barrages on the upstream. PTI AAM AAM ACD First Published: July 23, 2025, 22:30 IST News agency-feeds Odisha CM seeks amicable resolution of Mahanadi water dispute with Chhattisgarh Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tribes in Pakistans Kurram sign peace agreement Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 02:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Peshawar, Jul 23 (PTI) The tribes in Kurram district of Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Wednesday signed a peace agreement for a year in a tribal council, an official said. The tribal leaders in Kurram district came to terms on an eight-month peace agreement in March after violence stemming from decades-old land disputes had claimed at least 130 lives in the fragile district, with multiple efforts to establish peace between tribes. Recommended Stories A ceasefire agreement was reached following months of conflict in January. Kurram Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Khan, who chaired the jirga, told the media that the efforts of the administration, security forces, police and tribal leaders brought positive results after a long law and order situation in the district. A peace agreement was signed between the local tribes of Lower Kurram and Sadda for a year," he said. The jirga was held between the prominent tribal chiefs of the Ahle Sunnat and Tori Bangash tribes, including the participation of the additional deputy commissioner, officers of the security forces and police, and the assistant commissioners. The deputy commissioner said the tribal elders inked the agreement in the light of the Kohat agreement, adding all conditions of that agreement were to be considered. Khan said the tribal leaders declared the move a milestone for regional stability" and hoped for progress and long-standing peace. Speaking on the occasion, the deputy commissioner said the establishment of peace in Kurram district was possible only with the cooperation of regional elders and the immense sacrifices of the security forces for peace in the region were highly commendable. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He added that more steps would be taken for peace. At least 10,000 personnel of the army, police and other agencies performed security duty during Muharram in Kohat division, with the restive Kurram district handed over to the army due to a slew of sectarian killings in the past. PTI AYZ AS AS First Published: July 24, 2025, 02:30 IST News agency-feeds Tribes in Pakistans Kurram sign peace agreement Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump says China trip is not too distant as trade tensions ease Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 05:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Washington, Jul 23 (AP) President Donald Trump on Tuesday said a trip to China might be not too distant," raising prospects that the leaders of the worlds two largest economies may meet soon to help reset relations after moving to climb down from a trade war. Trump made the remarks while hosting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House, where he praised the fantastic military relationship" with Manila as the U.S. looks to counter Chinas influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Recommended Stories Yet, Trump still said the U.S. is getting along with China very well. We have a very good relationship." He added that Beijing has resumed shipping to the U.S. record numbers" of much-needed rare earth magnets, which are used in iPhones and other high-tech products like electric vehicles. Widely speculated about since Trump returned to the White House, a summit between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping would be expected to stabilize even for a short while a difficult relationship defined by mistrust and competition. Beijing believes a leader-level summit is necessary to steady U.S.-China relations and that Trump must be wooed because he has the final say on Americas policy toward China, despite more hawkish voices in his Cabinet, observers say. The question, however, is when. Danny Russel, a distinguished fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said Trump has consistently shown his hunger for a visit to China and that Beijing has used that to bolster leverage. As soon as the leadership in Beijing is satisfied that Trump will be on his best behavior and will accept terms for a deal that they think are favorable, they will give a green light to the visit," Russel said. Sun Yun, director of the China program at the Washington-based think tank Stimson Center, said a visit is in the making" with two sides likely to strike a trade deal. What Trump said might mean the visit would not be in September but potentially November, but still depends on whether they play ball on trade and other things we want," Sun said. Trumps campaign to impose tariffs on other countries kicked off a high-stake trade war with Beijing. China raised tariffs on U.S. goods to 125% in response to Trumps hiking the tax on Chinese goods to 145%. Both sides also imposed on each other harsh trade restrictions on critical products: China on rare earths, and the U.S. on computing chips and jet engine technology. Trade tensions, however, eased following two rounds of high-level talks in Geneva and London, when the two sides agreed to lower tariffs pending a more permanent deal by mid-August and pull back on trade restrictions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday on Fox Business Mornings with Maria" that he will be meeting with his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week to work on what is likely an extension" of the Aug. 12 deadline. I think trade is in a very good place with China," Bessent told host Maria Bartiromo. Hopefully, we can see the Chinese pull back on some of this glut of manufacturing that theyre doing and concentrate on building a consumer economy." He said he also expects to bring up Chinas purchases of Russian and Iranian oil and Beijings role in aiding Moscow in its war against Ukraine. Beijing has not announced any travel plans for Vice Premier He Lifeng, who led trade negotiations in both Geneva and London on behalf of the Chinese government, but it is not unusual for China to make such announcements closer to a travel date. In a possible friendly gesture, Beijing on Tuesday said it suspended an antitrust investigation into chemical maker DuPonts operations in China. Chinas State Administration for Market Regulation made the announcement in a one-line statement but gave no explanation for the decision. DuPont said in a statement that it is pleased" with Chinas action. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Chinese regulators launched the investigation in April against DuPont China Group, a subsidiary of the chemical giant, as part of Beijings broad, retaliatory response to Trumps sky-high tariffs. Beijing also has agreed to approve export permits for rare earth elements and rare earth magnets that U.S. manufacturers need to build cars, robots, wind turbines and other high-tech products. The U.S. has eased restrictions on some advanced chips and other technologies. (AP) AS AS First Published: July 23, 2025, 05:00 IST News agency-feeds Trump says China trip is not too distant as trade tensions ease Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UP: Thousands of devotees throng Shiva temples on Sawan Shivratri Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:39 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Varanasi/Sambhal(UP), Jul 23 (PTI) Shiva temples across the region were filled with crowds of devotees offering prayers on Sawan Shivratri, which coincided with the last day of the Kanwar Yatra on Wednesday. A large crowd of devotees has gathered at the temple since morning. Flowers are being showered on the worshippers," said Vishwa Bhushan Mishra, CEO of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Recommended Stories Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal assured that special surveillance" is being maintained through CCTV cameras and drones to ensure law and order. In Sambhal, the ancient Kartikeya Mahadev Temple, which reopened earlier this year after nearly 46 years, also saw a significant turnout of devotees. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Sub Divisional Magistrate Vikas Chandra, who performed jalabhishek at the temple, said that authorities are working hard to restore Sambhals lost identity. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to worship and perform jalabhishek at this ancient temple," Deepak Kumar, a devotee, said. PTI COR CDN SHS MPL MPL MPL MPL First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:39 IST News agency-feeds UP: Thousands of devotees throng Shiva temples on Sawan Shivratri Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UP unveils outreach strategy to attract investments ahead summit Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:56 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Lucknow, Jul 23 (PTI) After receiving investment proposals of over Rs 35 lakh crore during the 2023 Global Investors Summit, the Uttar Pradesh government is now rolling out an outreach drive to attract new investments, an official statement said. Invest UP, an investment promotion agency of the state, has crafted a comprehensive strategy, including national and international roadshows, to boost investor engagement, the statement said. Recommended Stories International roadshows will be held in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the UAE, Qatar, and Canada during September-October. While national-level roadshows will be organised across major Indian cities from December to early January 2026. The primary goal is to attract fresh investment proposals for the UP Global Investors Summit (GIS) scheduled for February 2026. The state government is set to organise the fifth Ground Breaking Ceremony (GBC-5) in November 2025, with an initial investment target of over Rs 5 lakh crore, the statement said. According to officials, this figure could rise to Rs 10 lakh crore. So far, Uttar Pradesh has implemented 16,478 projects worth Rs 12.10 lakh crore through previous GBCs. Of these, 8,363 projects worth Rs 4.33 lakh crore have already commenced commercial operations, while another 8,115 projects worth Rs 7.76 lakh crore are nearing operational rollout, the statement said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The outreach initiative aims to make UP a global investment destination through direct dialogue with investors, promotion of new policies, and active participation in international and national forums. The government is holding weekly meetings to update the strategy based on investor feedback. High-level meetings are also being held to generate new leads in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). PTI ABN ABN SHW First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:56 IST News agency-feeds UP unveils outreach strategy to attract investments ahead summit Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 10 Must-Read Books That Will Transform The Way You Manage Money Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 11:58 IST Money management is essential but rarely taught. The right books offer timeless insights and practical tips for every stage of your financial journey. Rich Dad Poor Dad shares key lessons on wealth. Understanding how to manage money is a crucial life skill, yet its often overlooked in traditional education. Whether youre just starting your financial journey or looking to sharpen your investment strategies, the right books can offer timeless wisdom and practical tools. Heres a carefully curated list of ten must-read money-management books that provide valuable insights on saving, investing, budgeting and building long-term wealth. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Recommended Stories This bestselling classic contrasts the financial philosophies of two father figuresone highly educated but financially unsuccessful, and the other a school dropout who built a business empire. Through compelling storytelling, Kiyosaki teaches readers how to adopt a mindset focused on asset-building and financial independence. The book challenges conventional views on work, education, and money, offering lessons that are as relevant today as ever. I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi Tailored for readers in their 20s and 30s, this practical guide offers a no-nonsense, step-by-step plan to achieve financial success. Ramit Sethi breaks down personal finance into four key pillarsbanking, saving, investing, and budgetingwhile encouraging readers to automate their finances and spend consciously. Its an empowering read for millennials aiming to build wealth while still enjoying life. The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey Dave Ramsey provides a structured approach to taking control of your finances through his baby steps" strategy. Packed with real-life success stories, this book is ideal for anyone looking to eliminate debt, build savings, and develop healthy money habits. Ramsey emphasises discipline, planning and commitmentcore values that drive long-term financial transformation. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Housels book explores the emotional and psychological factors that influence our financial decisions. Using 19 thought-provoking stories, he reveals that managing money well is less about intelligence and more about behaviour. This insightful read sheds light on why people often make irrational financial choicesand how to avoid them. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham Widely regarded as the definitive guide to value investing, this classic by Benjamin Graham teaches readers how to navigate market fluctuations and avoid emotional investing. Rather than offering tips for beating the market, Graham focuses on principles like margin of safety" and long-term thinking. The book includes commentary that applies his timeless lessons to modern investment scenarios. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S Clason Set in ancient Babylon, this enduring classic delivers financial wisdom through a series of engaging parables. Clason offers simple yet powerful lessons on saving, investing and managing debt. Its timeless principles continue to resonate with readers seeking to build wealth through disciplined habits and smart decision-making. The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J Stanley & William D Danko This eye-opening book reveals that most millionaires dont live flashy lifestyles. Instead, they practice frugality, invest wisely and live below their means. Stanley and Danko provide research-backed insights into the spending and saving habits of Americas wealthy, debunking myths and offering a roadmap to financial success. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C Bogle In this compact yet powerful guide, Vanguard founder John Bogle champions the benefits of low-cost index fund investing. He argues that the most effective way to grow wealth is through long-term, passive strategies rather than frequent trading. This is an essential read for anyone looking to build a solid, low-risk investment portfolio. The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins Originally written as a letter to his daughter, this book breaks down financial independence into easy-to-understand concepts. J.L. Collins emphasises the power of saving, frugality and investing in low-fee index funds. His straightforward advice makes it an excellent choice for those new to managing money or pursuing early retirement. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez This transformative book challenges readers to rethink their relationship with money. Robin and Dominguez promote a values-driven approach to spending, urging individuals to align their financial choices with their life goals. The book also introduces tools for tracking income and expenses to help readers achieve financial independence and greater life satisfaction. About the Author Business Desk A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:58 IST News business 10 Must-Read Books That Will Transform The Way You Manage Money Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Accredited Investor: Benefits, Eligibility And Why It Matters Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 19:26 IST Accredited investor status in India allows wealthy individuals to invest in exclusive financial products. Despite its perks, few use it due to a complex regulatory framework. In todays fast-moving financial world, new and special investment instruments have been emerging regularly. Amid a booming stock market and evolving financial services industry, the banks and non-banking financial companies are offering a wide range of products to meet the needs of customers across income groups. The financial services industry offers an opportunity to invest across multiple asset classes like equities, bonds, government securities, FDs, mutual funds, real estate and gold, among others. However, for certain investment instruments and high-end financial products, only a limited investors qualify to put their money. This is where an accredited investor status helps. Recommended Stories It is a special category for people with higher income or wealth. It allows them to invest in advanced products with fewer rules and more freedom. Lets break down what it means and why it matters: Who Can Be an Accredited Investor? To become an accredited investor in India, you must meet one of these rules set by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI): Earn Rs 2 crore or more in a year. Or have a net worth of Rs 7.5 crore, with at least Rs 3.75 crore in financial assets. Or earn Rs 1 crore a year and have a net worth of Rs 5 crore, with Rs 2.5 crore in financial assets. Why It Matters? 1. You Can Start Investing with Less Money Usually, to invest in high-end services like Portfolio Management Services (PMS) or Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), you need a lot of moneyRs 50 lakh or Rs 1 crore. But if you are an accredited investor, you can start with just Rs 1025 lakh, depending on the product. This makes it easier to invest in different types of instruments while leveraging the liquidity. 2. You Get Access to Special Investment Options Accredited investors can invest in products not available to regular investorslike venture capital, private equity, Special Situation Funds and even pre-IPO shares. Some of these are available with lower investment amounts, especially in GIFT City, which is Indias international financial hub. 3. More Control and Better Services Accredited investors often get customised financial services. They may get flexible plans, lower or performance-based fees, and advice that regular investors may not receive. These investors can also be more involved in how their money is managed. Why So Few People Use It Even though there are benefits, very few Indians have taken this path. As per an Economic Times report, India has only around 650 accredited investors, compared to over 24 million in the US. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all If you meet the criteria, becoming an accredited investor can open the door to better investment options with lower amounts, exclusive deals and more personalised services. It is a useful step for those looking to grow their money smartly. About the Author Business Desk A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More A team of writers and reporters decodes vast terms of personal finance and making money matters simpler for you. From latest initial public offerings (IPOs) in the market to best investment options, we cover al... Read More Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 19:26 IST News business Accredited Investor: Benefits, Eligibility And Why It Matters Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... PM Kisan 20th Installment Date: How To Register As A New Farmer To Receive Next Tranche Of Rs 2,000? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 17:10 IST PM Kisan 20th Installment Date 2025: The Rs 2,000 tranche, which was widely expected in June 2025, has been delayed this time, and there are no official words on this yet. Under the PM Kisan scheme, the central government provides financial assistance of Rs 6,000 annually to eligible farmers in three equal installments of Rs 2,000. PM Kisan 20th Installment Date 2025: As the wait for the 20th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme continues, over 9.8 crore registered farmers across India are checking their accounts and mobile phones for updates. The Rs 2,000 installment, which was widely expected in June 2025, has been delayed this time, with reports indicating a likely disbursement in July. However, there are no official words on this yet. While the existing beneficiaries await the 20th installment, new farmers who are yet to register still have an opportunity to enrol and become eligible for future installments. The government allows continuous registration under PM Kisan, provided the individual meets the schemes eligibility conditions. Recommended Stories Who Is Eligible for PM Kisan? To qualify for the PM Kisans 20th installment, one must: Be a citizen of India Own cultivable land Be a small or marginal farmer Not be a pensioner receiving Rs 10,000 or more per month Not have filed income tax Not be an institutional landholder. PM Kisan: How To Apply? A Step-By-Step Guide New registrations can be done online via the official portal or offline through Common Service Centres (CSCs). Heres a step-by-step guide for online registration: 1. Visit the portal at pmkisan.gov.in 2. Click on New Farmer Registration on the homepage. Youll be redirected to a form asking for Aadhaar Number, State, and Captcha Code. 3. Proceed to verify your Aadhaar using OTP. 4. Fill in the Application. Enter full name (as per Aadhaar), bank account number & IFSC code, mobile number, Land ownership details (Khasra/Khatauni, etc.). You may also be asked to upload land documents depending on your state. 5. Submit and Await Verification After submission, the application goes to the State Nodal Officer (SNO) for verification. Once approved, your name is added to the beneficiary list. PM Kisan: How To Check Beneficiary Status? Visit https://pmkisan.gov.in Click on Know Your Status Enter your registration number or Aadhaar number Check whether your name is on the beneficiary list Also ensure that your eKYC is completed, as it is mandatory for installment release. PM Kisan 20th Installment Date: When Will It Be Announced? Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to release the 20th installment of the PM Kisan scheme soon. However, no official date or the place of the event has been announced yet. The date will be announced on the official website of the PM Kisan scheme. PM Kisan 20th Installment Date: Why Is It Getting Delayed? The 19th Installment of the PM Kisan scheme was released in February. As the installment is generally released every four month, farmers were expecting it in June. However, the tranche has not been released yet till July 18, and no official reason has been given for the delay. Last year, the June installment was released before the month ended. Though the installment will be released soon, farmers are advised to check the official website of the PM Kisan scheme for any announcement. What Is The PM Kisan Scheme? Launched in 2019 after being announced in the Interim Budget by then Finance Minister Piyush Goyal, the PM Kisan scheme has become the worlds largest DBT scheme. Under it, eligible farmers receive Rs 2,000 every four months totaling Rs 6,000 annually in the following cycles April-July, August-November, and December-March. The money is deposited directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. How To Apply For PM Kisan Samman Nidhi? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Go to https://pmkisan.gov.in Click on New Farmer Registration Enter your Aadhaar number and captcha Fill in the details, click Yes Complete the form, submit it, and take a printout For any queries, you can call the PM-KISAN helpline numbers 155261 and 011-24300606. About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:09 IST News business economy PM Kisan 20th Installment Date: How To Register As A New Farmer To Receive Next Tranche Of Rs 2,000? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... IndiQube Spaces IPO Subscribed 93% On Day 1: Should You Apply? Check GMP, Price, Reviews Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 18:21 IST The GMP of the IndiQube Spaces IPO currently stands at 9.70%, indicating mild listing gains for investors. Indiqube Spaces Ltd IPO. IndiQube Spaces IPO GMP: The initial public offering of workplace solutions company IndiQube Spaces Ltd opened for public subscription today, Wednesday, July 23. It will remain open for bidding for three days till July 25. The price band of the mainboard IPO, which plans to raise Rs 700 crore, has been fixed in the range of Rs 225 to Rs 237 apiece. On the first day of bidding on Wednesday, the issue received a 0.93 times subscription, garnering bids for 1,51,10,739 shares as against the 1,62,79,682 shares on offer. The retail and NII participation stood at 3.63x and 0.83x, respectively. The QIB category has received a 0.06x subscription. Recommended Stories Also Read: GNG Electronics IPO Opens Today With 44% GMP: Should You Apply? The IPOs grey market premium currently stands at 9.70%, indicating mild listing gains for investors. IndiQube Spaces IPO Key Dates The IPO will remain open for subscription between July 23, 2025, and July 25, 2025. The share allotment will likely be finalised on July 28 (Monday), and the company is expected to be listed on both BSE and NSE on July 30 (Wednesday). IndiQube Spaces IPO Price & Lot Size The price band of the IPO has been fixed in the range of Rs 225 to Rs 237 per share. At the upper end of the price band, the companys valuation is nearly Rs 5,000 crore. For investors, the minimum lot size for the IPO is 63. It means investors will have to apply for a minimum of 63 shares or in multiple thereof. So, retail investors require a minimum capital of Rs 14,175 to apply for the IPO. IndiQube Spaces IPO GMP According to market observers, unlisted shares of IndiQube Spaces Ltd are currently trading at Rs 260 against the upper IPO price of Rs 237. It means a grey market premium or GMP of Rs 23, which is 9.70% over its issue price, indicating mild listing gains. The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price. IndiQube Spaces IPO: Should You Apply? Brokerages are divided on the IndiQube IPO, with views ranging from cautious optimism to outright avoidance. The company operates 115 centres across 15 cities and manages 8.4 million sq. ft. of flexible office space as of March 31, 2025. KR Choksey Finserv has a Neutral rating, noting that the IPO is fully priced in" compared to peers. It said, IndiQubes initial issue is priced at 8.4 times TTM EV/EBITDA versus domestic peer average of 12.2 times, and 47.4 times FY25 EV/Adjusted cash EBITDA." SBI Securities recommends Avoid, citing negative free cash flows and valuation concerns. The issue is valued at FY25 EV/Adj. EBITDA of 40.7 times, which is at a premium to listed peers like Awfis, which trades at 28.1 times," it said, advising investors to wait and track performance post-listing. Anand Rathi gave a Subscribe for long term rating, highlighting IndiQubes tech-driven hub-and-spoke" model and integrated platform MiQube. It said, Valued at a P/S of 4.7 times and EV/EBITDA of 14.6 times, we believe the IPO is fully priced but recommend subscribing for long-term growth." Arihant Capital also sees potential in the companys scalable, asset-light model. It said, With strong tenant retention and presence in cities like Bengaluru and Pune, the company is well-positioned to benefit from rising demand for flexible workspaces. We recommend a Subscribe for listing gain." Kunvarji Finstock pointed out that the company has been posting losses (weighted average EPS of -Rs 15.07) and thus cannot be valued on P/E basis. Still, it maintained a positive stance: Losses are due to Ind AS accounting; we recommend subscribing with a long-term view due to strong market presence and topline growth." SMIFS also recommended a Subscribe, supported by industry tailwinds and new offerings like Sustainability-as-a-Service. It said, While cash flow risks exist in the short term, IndiQubes service-led strategy and premium locations support a positive long-term outlook." IndiQube Spaces IPO: More Info The company is raising Rs 650 crore through issuance of fresh issue and promoters would offload shares worth Rs 50 crore under the Offer for Sale (OFS). WestBridge Capital, a key investor in the firm since 2018, is not divesting any stake in the OFS. IndiQube Spaces raised over Rs 314 crore from anchor investors, a day before its initial share-sale opens for public subscription. The company proposed to utilise the fresh capital to the tune of Rs 462.6 crore towards funding capex for setting up new centres, Rs 93 crore for repayment and rest for general corporate purposes. The company, which was incorporated in 2015, manages a portfolio of 8.40 million sq ft across 115 properties in 15 cities with a total seating capacity of 1,86,719 as of March 2025. This was a growth from 74 centres and 4.94 million Sq ft in March 2023. IndiQube serves 769 clients, out of which 44 per cent clients are Global Capability Centres. The company follows an enterprise-first strategy owing to which 63 per cent of its occupied area comes from clients who have leased over 300 seats. Further, 44 per cent of its revenue is generated from multi centre clients. Its diverse client mix includes Enphase, Myntra, Zerodha, NoBroker, upGrad, Siemens, Juspay, Perfios, Moglix, Ninjacart, Narayana Health and Allegis to name a few. On the financial front, the company reported a total income of Rs 1,103 crore in fiscal 2025, recording a CAGR of 35 per cent from fiscal 2023. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The company raised a total of Rs 324 crore in two funding rounds during 2018 and 2022. WestBridge Capital led the investment with Rs 190 crore, followed by Rs 131 crore from the promoters, and the rest came from angel investor Ashish Gupta. ICICI Securities and JM Financial are book-running lead managers to the issue.The equity shares are expected to be listed on July 30 on the BSE and NSE. About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris h... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:39 IST News business ipo IndiQube Spaces IPO Subscribed 93% On Day 1: Should You Apply? Check GMP, Price, Reviews Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter ZESA Holdings has launched a nationwide anti-vandalism initiative that will see the installation of surveillance cameras, alarms, and sensors on electricity transformers in a bid to curb the rampant destruction of power infrastructure and reduce financial losses.The announcement was made by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere during a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare yesterday. He said the initiative is being rolled out through ZESA's subsidiary, Powertel, and will introduce real-time monitoring systems to detect and prevent intrusions.Dr Muswere said the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) is leading the programme, which is targeting 47,000 transformers across the country. So far, installation has been successfully completed at 108 monitoring sites. He added that ZETDC will soon provide a framework that enables public participation in safeguarding the national electricity grid.Vandalism of electricity infrastructure has cost ZESA millions of dollars over the years, prompting the Government to introduce harsher penalties for perpetrators. The introduction of the surveillance technology marks a new phase in efforts to deter criminals and ensure a more stable power supply.In addition to anti-vandalism measures, Dr Muswere also gave an update on energy infrastructure projects being overseen by Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo as part of the Day 50 review of the second 100-day cycle of 2025. He said work was progressing well on several thermal and solar power plants aimed at increasing electricity generation capacity. These include projects in Hwange, Buhera, Beitbridge, and Chegutu districts.Dr Muswere further outlined developments within his own Ministry, which include the near-completion of two major documentary series. The productions, each with 25 episodes, explore Zimbabwe's development under the National Development Strategy 1 and the legacy of the Munhumutapa Empire. The episodes feature expert interviews, archival footage, and citizen stories, with 80 percent of post-production work reportedly finished.The Minister also noted significant progress in broadcasting and communication infrastructure. He said the Garahwa Community Radio Transmitter and Uninterrupted Power Supply Integration Project in Chipinge, Manicaland Province, has been completed and is now fully operational. Meanwhile, work is underway to upgrade Radio Zimbabwe's FM transmitter in Plumtree, with completion expected by the end of the current cycle.In Bulawayo, the establishment of a Heritage-Based Educational Radio Channel has reached 95 percent completion, with all major equipment installed and studio acoustic treatment finalised. In addition, the modernisation of Montrose Studios has been completed and is awaiting commissioning by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.Dr Muswere said all these developments reflect the Government's commitment to improving public services, safeguarding infrastructure, and preserving Zimbabwe's cultural and historical legacy through modern communication platforms. Infosys Q1 Results Today: Brokerages Expectations, Dividend, Other Key Updates To Watch Out For Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 09:32 IST Infosys Q1 Results FY26 Today: Infosys is set to announce its Q1FY26 earnings today (July 23), with analysts expecting a stable performance Infosys to announce Q1FY26 results today Infosys Q1FY26 Earnings Today: Infosys is set to announce its Q1FY26 earnings today (July 23), with analysts expecting a stable performance, buoyed by strong deal momentum, a recovery in the BFSI segment, and strategic investments in generative AI. However, wage hikes and acquisition-related expenses may weigh on margins in the near term. In a regulatory filing, the IT major stated that it will publish its results at approximately 3:45 PM, followed by a press conference at 4:15 PM and an investor/analyst call at 5:30 PM. The results will be available on the BSE and the companys investor relations website, with the press event also streamed live. Recommended Stories Infosys Q1FY26 Preview: 5 Key Things to Track Large Deal WinsAnalysts expect Infosys to report strong large deal ramp-ups and a healthy pipeline, which will remain a key driver of revenue and future growth. BFSI OutlookA recovery in BFSI spending, especially from US banks, is seen as a key tailwind. Brokerages note that the segment is emerging as a bright spot for the company. Margins Under PressureMargin pressures are expected due to wage hikes and the integration costs from recent acquisitions like MRE Consulting and Missing Link. However, Infosys is likely to stay within its guided EBIT margin range of 2022%, supported by operational efficiencies. Generative AI InvestmentInfosys continues to double down on generative AI initiatives, which analysts say could become a significant long-term growth lever. Guidance and Demand TrendsInvestors will closely track any updates to FY26 revenue guidance, pricing trends, and commentary on tech spending across verticals. Brokerage Expectations Anand Rathi: Infosys is expected to outperform peers in Q1FY26, backed by early signs of IT recovery and strength in the BFSI vertical. Positive cues from US banks and deal wins position Infosys and select mid-tier peers like LTIM and Mphasis for a strong quarter," the brokerage noted. Axis Securities: The firm expects QoQ revenue growth of 2.6%, aided by more working days and BFSI revival. However, operating margins are seen declining 120 bps QoQ due to wage hikes and elevated onsite costs. The brokerage also anticipates an upward revision in Infosyss FY26 revenue guidance to 13%, from the earlier 03% range. Q4FY25 Recap In Q4FY25, Infosys reported an 8% YoY rise in revenue to Rs 40,925 crore, while net profit declined 11.7% YoY to Rs 7,033 crore. Operating margins came in at 21%. The company reported $2.6 billion in large deal wins during the quarter, bringing FY25 total deal wins to $11.6 billion across 96 contracts 56% of which were net new. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The board had also recommended a final dividend of Rs 22 per share for FY25. 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. About the Author Aparna Deb Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:22 IST News business markets Infosys Q1 Results Today: Brokerages Expectations, Dividend, Other Key Updates To Watch Out For Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bengaluru Women Forced To Strip On Call During Digital Arrest By Fake Cops Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 21:46 IST Victims say they were kept on a video call for nine hours and forced to strip for a fake medical exam after being accused of money laundering by fraudsters posing as Mumbai police. In this representative AI-generated image, two women sit anxiously in a Bengaluru apartment during a coercive video call, as a faceless impersonator posing as police looms on screen, a reminder of the growing threat of digital arrest scams targeting women online. (IMAGE: IMAGEN 3 ENGINE) Two women in Bengaluru were blackmailed into stripping on a video call and cheated out of money by cybercriminals posing as Mumbai police officers in a fake digital arrest scam. The women, one of whom is a 46-year-old tech worker and the other a yoga instructor visiting from Thailand, were kept on a video call for nine hours on July 17. During the call, they were allegedly ordered to strip for what the fraudsters described as an online medical examination" to identify birthmarks and tattoos. The criminals secretly recorded the video and later used it to threaten the women, according to a police complaint accessed by news agency PTI. Recommended Stories The ordeal began when the two friends received a call from a person claiming to be an officer from Mumbais Colaba police station. The caller accused them of being involved in a money laundering case linked to Jet Airways. When the women denied the allegations, the fraudsters shared accurate details of one victims debit card to build trust. The scammers also sent forged documents, including an arrest warrant and a fake CBI ID card, the news agencys report said. These materials were convincing enough that the women believed they were dealing with real law enforcement officials. We werent allowed to leave the house, as they claimed we were under surveillance," the complainant said, according to PTI. The fraudsters then asked the women to transfer money to a bank account for verification purposes" and promised the amount would be refunded. The yoga instructor ended up transferring 58,447. The suspects later insisted on a medical clearance, during which they ordered the women to undress on camera. Claiming it was necessary to match identifying body marks, they coerced them into stripping, unaware that the video was being recorded. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Eventually, one of the women managed to call a friend who advised them to end the call and stop all transfers. When the scammers could not reconnect, they sent the women screenshots and video clips, threatening to leak them. Both women deleted the files and approached the East CEN police station, where a case was filed under the Information Technology Act and relevant sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police are investigating the scam and have urged the public not to share personal information or comply with video call demands from unknown callers posing as officials. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 21:46 IST News bengaluru-news Bengaluru Women Forced To Strip On Call During Digital Arrest By Fake Cops Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Good News For Mumbai: Tansa Becomes Third Lake To Overflow After Incessant Rain Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 19:42 IST According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Tansa Lake began to overflow at 5:40 pm on Tuesday evening The citys cumulative water stock has crossed 86.88% of its total storage capacity. (BMC) In welcome cheer for Mumbaiites, the Tansa Lake one of the citys seven key water sources started to overflow on Tuesday owing to the steady and strong rainfall in its catchment area over the past few days. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Tansa Lake began to overflow at 5:40 pm on Tuesday evening, boosting Mumbais water stock. This will ensure uninterrupted water supply in the coming months. Recommended Stories This is the third lake this season to reach full capacity. Earlier, on July 7, three gates of the Hinduhridayasamrat Shiv Sena Pramukh Balasaheb Thackeray Middle Vaitarna Reservoir were opened after the water level crossed the safe limit. Report of water stock in the seven lakes, supplying water to Mumbai, till 6am today.#MumbaiRains#MyBMCUpdates pic.twitter.com/Qp5DlePDQB Mumbai, BMC (@mybmc) July 23, 2025 Soon after, on July 9, Modak Sagar Lake also started overflowing. Now, with Tansa full, the citys cumulative water stock has crossed 86.88% of its total storage capacity. The Tansa dam, located in Shahapur Taluka of Thane district, is one of Mumbais oldest stone masonry dams and holds a special place in the citys water supply system. It has a maximum storage capacity of about 14,508 crore litres (145,080 million litres) an impressive figure that directly impacts lakhs of residents. The continuous downpour in the lakes catchment area has steadily pushed up the water levels in recent days. BMC engineers said that early today that all seven lakes together hold nearly 87% of their total storage capacity an encouraging sign when compared to dry years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Records show that Tansa Lake tends to fill up around this time. Last year, it started overflowing on July 24. In 2023, it overflowed on July 26, while in 2022, it reached its capacity as early as July 14. In 2021, Tansa overflowed on July 22, and in 2020, it reached its full mark on August 20. With more rain expected over the next few days, civic officials hope the other lakes will also fill up soon, ensuring that Mumbais vast population gets an uninterrupted supply of drinking water through the year. About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 19:42 IST News mumbai-news Good News For Mumbai: Tansa Becomes Third Lake To Overflow After Incessant Rain Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Do You Think Of Mumbai Metro-11 From Anik Depot To Gateway Of India? Tell MMRCL By August 20 Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 21:21 IST Mumbai Metro 11 will have underground stations covering areas such as Wadala Truck Terminal, Sewri, Byculla, Bhendi Bazaar, and Crawford Market, terminating near Gateway of India The project is financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has invited suggestions and objections from citizens on the proposed 17.5-km Metro Line-11, which will stretch from Anik Depot to Gateway of India, passing through key locations like Bhendi Bazaar and Nagpada. The project, financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is a key part of Mumbais expanding metro network and aims to enhance connectivity in the citys eastern and southern corridors. Recommended Stories Metro-11: Anik Depot to Gateway of India Metro Line-11 will have underground stations covering major areas such as Wadala Truck Terminal, Sewri, Byculla, Bhendi Bazaar, and Crawford Market, terminating near Gateway of India. Only Anik Depot will be at ground level. Metro Line 11 will link with Metro Line 4 (Wadala-Kasarvadavli), the Aqua Line, the Monorail, and major suburban railway stations like Byculla and CSMT, making it a vital interchange route in the citys public transport network. How will Metro-11 impact environment? MMRCL publishes report The MMRCL published the alignment and environmental and social impact assessment report for the proposed Wadala-Gateway of India underground Metro Line 11. According to the report, over 2,200 trees will either be cut or transplanted, and 796 structures are likely to be impacted by the construction work, affecting a total of 801 families, the FPJ reported. As per the social impact assessment report for this proposed metro 11, total permanent land requirement for the project is estimated at 24.65 hectares, including 15.85 hectares for the proposed depot at Anik Bus Depot, which will be developed jointly with the existing bus facility, the TOI reported. While most of the alignment is underground, the project will require land for entry/exit points and ancillary services. Temporary land usage of around 17.44 hectares is also planned during the construction phase. Efforts have been made to minimize displacement and land acquisition, with only 2.3 hectares of private land needed. However, the corridor will affect certain residential and commercial structures, including huts, and may result in relocation. Compensation will be provided as per the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, and in accordance with the MMRC and MUTP resettlement policies the report reads. How and where to give feedback on Metro-11? What happens after that? The report has been uploaded on MMRCs official website, and the corporation has invited objections and suggestions from citizens and stakeholders till August 20. This public consultation process is expected to guide final decisions and any possible changes to the project design or route. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Written suggestions or objections can be submitted until 6 PM on August 20, 2025 to the Director (Planning & Real Estate Development), MMRC, at the Bandra-Kurla Complex or via email on townplanningassist@mmrcl.com. A public hearing will be held following the consultation period, with details to be announced through newspapers. About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:56 IST News cities mumbai-news What Do You Think Of Mumbai Metro-11 From Anik Depot To Gateway Of India? Tell MMRCL By August 20 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi Sub-Inspector Goes On The Run With Rs 2 Crore, Travels To Goa, Manali With Girlfriend Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:17 IST A sub-inspector with the Delhi Police got the money released from the court by submitting fake documents and eloped with his girlfriend. Both of them are married. Delhi Police. (Representative Image) A sub-inspector with the Delhi Police, who helped solve several cyber fraud cases, allegedly stole Rs 2 crore and fled with his sub-inspector girlfriend. He is believed to have used the stolen money to travel to prominent tourist hubs like Goa, Manali and Jammu and Kashmir. According to a report by NDTV, the sub-inspector, identified as Ankur Malik, was posted at Cyber Thana, North-East district. He secured the release of the stolen money by obtaining a court order using fake complainants names, then redirected the funds to bank accounts belonging to his acquaintances. Recommended Stories The 2021 batch officer went on a seven-day medical leave and never returned. At the same time, sub-inspector Neha Punia of the same batch, posted at the GTB Enclave police station, also went missing. After a missing report was filed, an ensuing investigation revealed that Malik had siphoned off crores from cyber-fraud recoveries and had an affair with Punia. Both Malik and Punia are married Maliks wife resides in Baraut, Uttar Pradesh, while Punias husband lives in Delhis Rohini. Malik and Punia became friends in 2021 and allegedly planned the fraud around that time, as per the investigation. The police traced down the missing sub-inspectors through technical surveillance and intelligence inputs. The duo were tracked and arrested in Indore after four months of search, where it was revealed that they wanted to start a new life under fake identities. Gold worth Rs 1 crore, 11 mobile phones, a laptop, three ATM cards and other items were recovered from their possession. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Three others, identified as Mohammad Ilyas, Aafi alias Monu and Shadab, whose accounts were used by the accused to transfer funds were also taken into custody. Police said Malik knew no one would claim the money, so he got it released from the court by submitting fake documents and fled, NDTV reported. He vacationed with his girlfriend in Goa, Manali and other places. After reaching Indore, he bought gold in exchange for the cash to make it harder for authorities to track them, police said. They had intended to get fake IDs to start a new life in Madhya Pradesh. They are currently under interrogation. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:17 IST News new-delhi-news Delhi Sub-Inspector Goes On The Run With Rs 2 Crore, Travels To Goa, Manali With Girlfriend Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Priyadarshini Mattoo's Family Meets Delhi Home Minister, Strongly Objects To Killer's 'Premature Release' Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 21:57 IST In a letter to the minister, Priyadarshini's brother vehemently objects to the possible early release of Santosh Kumar Singh, convicted of raping and murdering the deceased in 1996 Santosh Singh is a convict in the rape and murder of Priyadarshini Mattoo. (File image) The family of Priyadarshini Mattoo, along with founding members of the Justice for Priyadarshini Mattoo Campaign", met Delhi home minister Ashish Sood on Wednesday and submitted a letter signed by Hemant Mattoothe deceaseds brotheralong with five others, including journalists and a lawyer. The letter was written following a recent Delhi High Court order directing the Sentence Review Board to re-evaluate its decision to reject the plea for premature release of Santosh Kumar Singh, who was convicted of raping and murdering Priyadarshini Mattoo. Recommended Stories In his letter to the Delhi home minister, Hemant strongly objects to the possible premature release of Santosh Kumar Singh, the man convicted of raping and murdering the 25-year-old law student in 1996. I write to you on behalf of countless citizens, particularly young women and their families across India, who continue to place their faith in the justice system to protect them from those who stalk, harass, violate, and silence them. This faith is now being tested by reports that the Sentence Review Board has been asked to reconsider the premature release of Santosh Kumar Singhconvicted for the brutal rape and murder of Priyadarshini Mattoo," Hemant Mattoo says. In an interview with News18 last week, Hemant had said that he would challenge and write to the government against the possible premature release of Santosh. I was stunned and very disappointed. I couldnt believe that he received some leniency. The Supreme Court had already commuted his sentence from the death penalty to life imprisonment. At that time, the impression was that life imprisonment would mean decades in prison," Hemant Mattoo told News18 in the interview prior to writing the letter. Since then, I have been following the case closelyespecially alongside my father until he passed away in 2016. After the 2008 High Court judgment that convicted him, he was in prison. But after a few years, he was shifted to an open jail where he could leave during the day and return in the evening." The letter cites a chilling history of stalking and harassment" that Priyadarshini endured before her murder. It describes Singhs dangerous pattern of obsessive, violent behaviour", including multiple police complaints filed by the victim in 1995, months before her brutal killing. On July 1, the Delhi High Court directed the Sentence Review Board to reconsider the rejection of a sentence review plea filed by Santosh Kumar Singh. This wasnt the first time the review board rejected his plea. Sood is the chairperson of the Sentence Review Board for Delhi. When News18 had asked whether he would ever be able to forgive Santosh, Hemant said, I dont think so. This has gone too far. One incident destroyed my family. My father died prematurely. My mother passed away prematurely. My other sister also passed away. Three family members are gone because of that one incident. I can never forgive him. He should have been hanged." In the letter written on Wednesday, he has called the crime one of premeditated malice," and referenced the 2006 Delhi High Court judgment that overturned Singhs earlier acquittal and handed him the death penaltylater commuted to life imprisonment by the Supreme Court. The case had sparked nationwide outrage and became a rallying cry for justice in crimes against women. The signatories argue that releasing Singh early would violate legal safeguards. Under Delhi Prison Rules, a life sentence in cases of rape and murder requires at least 20 years of imprisonment before remission can even be considered. They remind the government that remission is not a right, but a conditional privilege", quoting multiple Supreme Court rulings. The letter also warns of the risk of recidivism, citing several recent cases where convicted rapists reoffended after being granted early release. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Releasing Santosh Kumar Singh would send a chilling signal across India," the letter warns, urging the government not to reverse decades of hard-won public trust in the judicial system. The letter talks about government data. It states that with over 4.45 lakh crimes against women reported in 2022, such a release would not only endanger public safety but also undermine the governments commitment to gender justice. About the Author Ankur Sharma With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 21:57 IST News cities Priyadarshini Mattoo's Family Meets Delhi Home Minister, Strongly Objects To Killer's 'Premature Release' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 2006 Blast Acquittals Over Seal For RDX, Minor Details: What Maharashtra Said In SC Plea Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:15 IST Maharashtra Plea Against HC's 2006 Mumbai Train Blasts Case Acquittals: The Maharashtra government said the recovery of RDX was disbelieved on a "hyper-technical ground" The Maharashtra government has challenged the HC verdict in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts case. (PTI File) Maharashtra Plea Against HCs 2006 Mumbai Train Blasts Case Acquittals: The Maharashtra government on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court, challenging the Bombay High Court (HC) judgment acquitting all 12 accused in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts case. On July 11, 2006, seven blasts within a span of 11 minutes in the first-class compartments of Western Railway (WR) local trains left 189 dead and several injured. The MCOCA court in September 2015 convicted 12 of the 13 arrested in the case. Recommended Stories Mumbai Train Blasts Case Recap: 189 Deaths In 11 Minutes In 2006 To Acquittal Of 12 In 2025 Kamal Ansari (now dead), Mohammad Faisal Ataur Rahman Shaikh, Ehtesham Qutubuddin Siddiqui, Naveed Hussain Khan and Asif Khan were sentenced to death, while Tanveer Ahmed Mohammed Ibrahim Ansari, Mohammed Majid Mohammed Shafi, Shaikh Mohammed Ali Alam Shaikh, Mohammed Sajid Margub Ansari, Muzammil Ataur Rahman Shaikh, Suhail Mehmood Shaikh and Zameer Ahmed Rehman Shaikh were sentenced to life imprisonment. The HC on Monday acquitted all 12 accused, saying the prosecution utterly failed to prove the case and it was hard to believe they committed the crime". Disbelieved on hyper-technical ground: What Maharashtra government said in plea The Maharashtra government appealed against the HC judgment on grounds that the recovery of RDX from an accused was disbelieved on a hyper-technical ground" that the seized explosives were not sealed with a lac seal, the PTI reported. Earlier in the day, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, on behalf of the state government, mentioned the plea before an apex court bench headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai and sought an urgent hearing. The court agreed to hear it on July 24, according to PTI. The state government, in its appeal, has raised several serious objections to the high courts order of acquittal. The plea has asserted that due procedural safeguards under Section 23(2) of Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) were observed, including proper sanctioning by senior officers like prosecution witness (PW) no. 185 Anami Roy. It said the high court overlooked the validity of these approvals despite no substantial contradiction in the prosecutions evidence. #WATCH | Mumbai: On Bombay High Court acquitting all 12 people in relation to 2006 Mumbai train bombings, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, The verdict of the Bombay High Court is very shocking and we will challenge it in the Supreme Court." pic.twitter.com/N9aQJMvW9y ANI (@ANI) July 21, 2025 Lac seal for RDX: What Maharashtra government said in plea The plea mentioned the high courts rejection of the recovery of 500 grams of RDX from one of the accused on the grounds that it lacked a lac seal. The plea has said that RDX, being highly inflammable, was not sealed for safety reasons and the recovery was duly sanctioned and documented. That, the Honble High Court has disbelieved the recovery of 500 gms of RDX from Accused No. 1 on a hyper-technical ground that the RDX which was seized was not sealed with a lac seal. It will be pertinent to note that the same was not sealed with a lac seal because RDX is an inflammable substance. It is pertinent to note that the High Court records that the sanctioning authority for explosive substances has been examined by the prosecution. However, the Honble High Court has not found any infirmities in the evidence of PW 26, who is the sanctioning authority under the Explosive Substances Act for seizure of RDX from Accused No. 1. Therefore, the High Court has erred in disbelieving the recovery of RDX from Accused No. 1," the plea said, according to PTI. Minute details in confession: What Maharashtra government said in plea It has also disputed the high courts dismissal of the confession of an accused for lacking minute details, such as the date of arrival of the Pakistani co-conspirators in India, the description of the six Pakistanis and information like whether they had trained in terrorist camps. The entire confessional statement has been disbelieved which is an unacceptable conclusion," the plea has said, adding that omissions regarding the identities and origins of the Pakistani co-conspirators do not invalidate the overall confession. ALSO READ: Innocent In Jail In Train Blasts Case: Why Lincoln Lawyer & Ex-HC Judge Muralidhar Said This The appeal also challenges the high courts disregard of the recovery of detonators and explosive granules from another accused, pointing out that these items cannot be easily procured or planted, and their evidentiary value should not have been dismissed over technicalities. The petition says the high court failed to address the validity of the convictions under various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and relevant provisions of the Explosive Substances Act. It says the high court ignored key findings and legal interpretations from previous landmark judgments. The plea addresses the defences contention that the accused did not meet the definition of continuing unlawful activity" under the MCOCA due to earlier offences being punishable by less than three years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Citing Supreme Court precedents, the plea says the conspiracy and scale of the attack clearly fall under MCOCA provisions. With PTI Inputs About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:20 IST News cities 2006 Blast Acquittals Over Seal For RDX, Minor Details: What Maharashtra Said In SC Plea Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Are Schools And Colleges Closed In Telangana Today? Details Inside Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:12 IST A state-wide bandh has been called in Telangana today by student unions, raising questions about school and college closures. School, College Closure in Telangana Today? Check Latest Update Here. Telangana Schools Closed Today News: A state-wide bandh has been called in Telangana for today, Wednesday, July 23, by student groups including the All India Students Federation (AISF) and Students Federation of India (SFI). The protest is aimed at highlighting key issues in the education sector such as fee hikes, delayed scholarships, and poor infrastructure in government and aided institutions. The bandh has sparked uncertainty among students and parents over whether schools and colleges will remain open. While the Telangana government has not officially declared a holiday, many schools and junior colleges, both government and private, are likely to remain shut as a precautionary measure, according to Sakshi. Recommended Stories In the past, similar bandhs called by student unions have seen widespread support, with several institutions suspending classes to avoid disruptions and ensure student safety. The protesting student unions have listed several demands including: Immediate release of pending scholarships and fee reimbursements Infrastructure upgrades in government colleges Filling of vacant teaching and non-teaching posts Timely release of academic calendars and exam schedules Continuation of subsidies for student bus passes ALSO READ: Tamil Nadu School Leave: Public Holidays Announced On July 23-24 And July 28 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all TSRTC services have reportedly been expanded for students, but disruptions may still occur in some areas. Parents are advised to stay in touch with school authorities for updates and follow local news channels for the latest announcements. Even though July 23 is not a government-declared holiday, closures may vary by institution depending on the situation in their area. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:12 IST News education-career Are Schools And Colleges Closed In Telangana Today? Details Inside Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Fee Hike Wapas Lo: IIT Guwahati Campus Sees Strong Protest Over Revised Fees Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:42 IST IIT Guwahati students protested against the fee hike on Tuesday, chanting slogans and demanding a rollback of the revised semester fees for PhD, MTech, and BTech courses. IIT Guwahati students protest against steep semester fee hike, demand rollback of revised structure. The campus of IIT Guwahati witnessed strong protests on Tuesday, as hundreds of PhD research scholars and MTech students came together to oppose what they called an exceptionally high" fee hike for the new semester. Chanting slogans like Kam karo, kam karo, fee hike kam karo," and Fee hike wapas lo" students demanded the withdrawal of the revised fee structure, which has been implemented for PhD, MTech, and even BTech students starting the July-November 2025 semester. The protests intensified overnight after students claimed the administration failed to uphold assurances made during an open house meeting on July 17. That meeting, attended by the institutes director and senior deans, reportedly included a promise to address student concerns over the increased fee. Recommended Stories PhD Students Denied Registration For Not Paying Revised Fees July 22 was the scheduled date for semester registration for PhD students. However, many students refused to pay the revised fees, citing financial burden. When they turned up at their respective departments, they were allegedly barred from registering due to non-payment. This triggered an hours-long protest that began at 1 pm and continued till evening. According to students, the total fee for PhD scholars has gone up by Rs 10,900, from Rs 34,800 in the previous (Jan-May 2025) semester to Rs 45,700 for the current (July-Nov 2025) semester. In addition, students are opposing charges for hostel rent, arguing that they are eligible for House Rent Allowance (HRA). ALSO READ: NEET PG 2025: Aspirants Claim Error In City Slip, Says Details Only Sent About The State Key Fee Hikes Gymkhana fee: Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 Medical fee: Rs 100 to Rs 500 Hostel rent: Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 Hostel fund: Rs 600 to Rs 2,200 Electricity and water charges: Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all New fest fee: Rs 1,300 per semester The institute has not yet issued an official response. Students say they will continue protesting until their demands are addressed. About the Author Archit Gupta Archit Gupta is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18.com and a seasoned education journalist specialising in reporting on education and employment. He has covered a variety of education-related stories, including high-... Read More Archit Gupta is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18.com and a seasoned education journalist specialising in reporting on education and employment. He has covered a variety of education-related stories, including high-... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:41 IST News education-career Fee Hike Wapas Lo: IIT Guwahati Campus Sees Strong Protest Over Revised Fees Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025: Where And How To Check Results Once Out Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:14 IST Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025 is expected soon. Candidates can check their scores online at joinindianarmy.nic.in once the results are officially declared. Candidates can check the Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025 on joinindianarmy.nic.in once released. (PTI Image) Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025: The Indian Army will soon release the Agniveer recruitment exam result. The date and time of release of the results have not been confirmed yet, but candidates can expect their results anytime this week. Once declared, candidates who have appeared for the examination can check the results on the official website of Indian Army at joinindianarmy.nic.in. The Common Entrance Examination (CEE) was conducted from June 30 to July 10, 2025, in 13 languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Odia, Bengali, Urdu, Gujarati, Marathi, and Assamese. Recommended Stories The computer-based test followed an objective Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format. Depending on their application category, candidates were required to attempt either 50 questions in one hour or 100 questions in two hours. The Indian Army shared a detailed notification explaining the result process. It reads: Candidates will be shortlisted based on the cut-off applied to the written exam results in proportion to the available vacancies. The Roll Numbers of qualified candidates will be published on the Join Indian Army website. These shortlisted candidates will receive a second admit card for the remaining recruitment process as per the Rally Schedule of their respective Army Recruiting Offices. The Phase II admit card can also be downloaded under the candidates login on the portal." Where To Check Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025? Candidates can check the Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025 on the official website of the Indian Army recruitment portal: Official website: joinindianarmy.nic.in The result will be available region-wise and in PDF format. Candidates are advised to visit the official website regularly to stay updated on the release. ALSO READ: NEET PG 2025: Aspirants Claim Error In City Slip, Says Details Only Sent About The State How To Check Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025? Follow these simple steps to check your result: Step 1: Visit the official website: joinindianarmy.nic.in Step 2: Click on the link for Agniveer Result 2025" available on the homepage. Step 3: Select your region or rally zone to access the result PDF. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Step 4: Download the PDF and check for your roll number or registration ID. Step 5: Save or print the result for future reference. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:10 IST News education-career Indian Army Agniveer Result 2025: Where And How To Check Results Once Out Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter A long-observed but rarely explained tradition of Zimbabwe's presidency - the ceremonial send-off and reception of the Head of State at the airport - has come under the spotlight once again, this time with presidential spokesperson George Charamba offering detailed insight into its constitutional and symbolic significance.The explanation follows renewed debate after Vice President Constantino Chiwenga was seen at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport late at night, welcoming President Emmerson Mnangagwa back from his diplomatic tour of Equatorial Guinea, Japan, and Algeria.The custom, familiar to Zimbabweans through decades of images showing ministers and vice presidents lining up to receive the President, was often viewed as a form of political theatre - a show of loyalty and power rather than a procedural necessity.Charamba, responding on X (formerly Twitter), clarified that the practice is not mere pomp but a constitutional requirement tied to the transfer of executive power."It is protocol for an Acting President to be physically present at the point of exit when the President leaves the country and again at the point of entry upon his return," said Charamba."This is because the Head of State hands over instruments of power to the designated Acting President at departure and receives them back upon arrival. This handover and return are symbolised in the physical meeting and handshake at the airport, usually accompanied by military salutes from the Defence Forces."Charamba further noted that, without the designated Acting President present at the port of departure, the sitting President may not legally leave the country."Once the incumbent is airborne, the Acting President assumes power recognised even by the Defence Forces through an official salute. Upon the President's return, the reverse takes place."This explanation sheds new light on a ritual many Zimbabweans had long accepted as an unexplained norm, often critiqued as outdated and costly. The practice, it turns out, is rooted in protocol inherited from the British colonial system a tradition also maintained by other former British colonies such as Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania.Reports from the 1990s reinforce the historical consistency of the tradition. In one oft-repeated anecdote, the late Zanu-PF stalwart and legal scholar Eddison Zvobgo reportedly refused to get out of bed on a freezing winter morning to receive then-President Robert Mugabe at the Harare International Airport after one of his frequent foreign trips. Though Zvobgo was never Mugabe's deputy, senior ministers were routinely expected to attend such late-night returns.Despite its longevity, the tradition has come under increasing scrutiny, with critics arguing that it is an unnecessary relic in a modern republic, especially when such ceremonies take place in the early hours, incurring logistical and security costs.While many Zimbabweans had speculated about its purpose, Charamba's statement offers rare clarity. Still, questions remain about its relevance in a democratic system struggling with economic challenges, and whether it is time to reform or discard such colonial vestiges altogether. More Than 4.7 Lakh Pirated NCERT Books Seized Since 2024: Education Ministry To Rajya Sabha Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:07 IST The minister highlighted that the primary goal of NCERT is to ensure every student in India has access to high-quality textbooks at very affordable prices. The Minister of State reported that NCERT conducted 29 raids over the past year. (Representative/File Photo) Since 2024, over 4.7 lakh pirated NCERT textbooks have been confiscated nationwide, according to Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudharys written response in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. He noted that incidents of piracy involving NCERT textbooks have been reported from various regions across the country, according to a PTI report. Instances of piracy of NCERT textbooks have been received from different parts of the country. During the years 2024 and 2025, approximately 4.71 lakh pirated copies of NCERT textbooks have been seized in various operations across different states. Piracy is driven primarily by commercial motives of unscrupulous elements," Chaudhary said. Recommended Stories The main objective of NCERT is to provide quality textbooks at a very affordable price to the last student across the country, on a no-profit and no-loss basis," he added. Efforts To Combat Piracy The Minister of State reported that NCERT conducted 29 raids over the past year on premises involved in the production and sale of counterfeit books and illegal printing of NCERT watermarked paper. These operations resulted in the seizure of stock and machinery worth over Rs 20 crore. To tackle piracy, NCERT has adopted several proactive measures, including: Timely printing and delivery of textbooks Enhanced quality of paper and printing using modern machinery Promotion of online textbook sales through e-commerce platforms Utilisation of technology developed by IIT Kanpur top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Additionally, NCERT has tested a technology-based anti-piracy system, developed and patented by IIT Kanpur, on one million Class 6 books. NCERT has also taken several proactive measures to hit at the very root of piracy business, including a 20 per cent price reduction of NCERT textbooks, timely printing of NCERT textbooks, improved quality of paper and printing (using modern machines), promotion of online sale of textbooks through e-commerce platforms. NCERT has also conducted a pilot trial of a technology-based anti-piracy solution, on one million copies of a grade 6 textbook. This tech-based solution has been developed and patented by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur," Chaudhary said. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 20:02 IST News education-career More Than 4.7 Lakh Pirated NCERT Books Seized Since 2024: Education Ministry To Rajya Sabha Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... School Closed Today, July 23: Holiday In Many Districts Of UP, Telangana, Tamil Nadu & Kerala Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 09:06 IST School Closed Today: Several districts in UP, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Kerala have declared a school holiday today, July 23. Schools Closed Today, July 23, in Several States Due to Yatra, Bandh, Festival & Mourning.(Representational Image/Getty) Several states across India have announced school holidays for today, Wednesday, July 23, due to a mix of religious events, protests, and official mourning. Students in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Kerala will get the day off for different reasons. North India: Kanwar Yatra Leads To Closures Recommended Stories In Uttar Pradesh, several districts including Noida (Gautam Buddha Nagar), Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and nearby areas have announced school closures due to the Kanwar Yatra, which concludes today, July 23. The annual pilgrimage sees lakhs of Lord Shiva devotees carrying Ganga water, leading to heavy traffic and safety concerns across the state. In Noida, all schools from Classes 1 to 12 have been shut. Online classes were held on July 21 and 22, but physical classes will resume from July 24, according to district authorities. The decision was taken in view of anticipated road congestion and to ensure the safety of students. Other districts, including Baghpat and Saharanpur, had already closed schools since July 16 as part of precautionary steps during the peak days of the yatra. Officials have urged parents to follow updates from school administrations and avoid travel near key Kanwar routes due to expected traffic delays. ALSO READ: Are Schools And Colleges Closed In Telangana Today? Details Inside Tamil Nadu: Festival Holiday for Aadi Thiruvathirai In Ariyalur district, Tamil Nadu, schools are closed today for Aadi Thiruvathirai, a festival celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva. Students in the region also have holidays on July 24 and July 28, making this a festive week. Telangana: Student-Led Bandh Shuts Schools In Telangana, student unions have called a statewide bandh to protest rising fees and delays in scholarship payments. The government has not declared an official holiday, but many schools and junior colleges have chosen to remain closed today to avoid disruptions and ensure safety. Kerala: Public Holiday After Former CMs Demise In Kerala, the state government has declared a public holiday today in honour of former Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan, who passed away on July 21. Schools, colleges, and government offices will remain closed. The state is also observing three days of mourning, and the leaders funeral will take place in Alappuzha. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all What Parents Should Do? Since school closures vary by location and reason, parents are advised to check with local school authorities and follow local news for the latest updates. Some areas may have normal classes, while others may be shut due to precautionary reasons or local events. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 09:04 IST News education-career School Closed Today, July 23: Holiday In Many Districts Of UP, Telangana, Tamil Nadu & Kerala Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'SIR Exercise Dishonest': Tejashwi Hints At Poll Boycott, BJP Senses 'Fear Of Defeat' Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:13 IST Reiterating the stance taken by the Centre, the BJP in Bihar said the Election Commission is an independent institution and the voter list revision is a "transparent process" Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav during the monsoon session, in Patna on July 23. (Image: PTI) Leader of Opposition in the Bihar assembly and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday made a big statement, hinting at a possible boycott of the upcoming elections over the voter list revision exercise in the state. Tejashwi, fresh from a fiery debate with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over the special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in the state assembly, alleged that the ongoing exercise was dishonest" in nature. Recommended Stories Watch the video here: Patna, Bihar: When asked whether the opposition could mutually decide to boycott the elections, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav says, "That too can be discussed. We will see what the people want and what everyones opinion is" pic.twitter.com/6r9fI2pCi0 IANS (@ians_india) July 23, 2025 Asked if the opposition could mutually decide to boycott the elections, Tejashwi told news agency IANS: That too can be discussed. We will see what the people want and what everyones opinion is," adding, when everything has already been decided with dishonesty beforehandthen whats the point of having an election?" The BJP in Bihar, however, responded by taunting Tejashwi for being scared of losing the election. Reiterating the stance taken by the Centre, it said the Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent institution and the revision exercise is a transparent process". Tejashwi Yadavs statement of boycotting the elections reflects his frustration and fear of defeat. In a democracy, the voice of the people is supreme, and threatening to suppress it is undemocratic and irresponsible," said Bihar BJP spokesperson Neeraj Kumar. The Election Commission is an independent institution, and voter list revision is a transparent process, which Tejashwi is calling a conspiracy without any proof." The uproar in the Bihar assembly reflected the chaotic scenes from Parliament in New Delhi, where the opposition parties staged massive protests against the SIR during the ongoing monsoon session. There were repeated disruptions in both Houses as they demanded a discussion on the issue, with the Rajya Sabha finally being adjourned and the Lok Sabha also adjourned for the third consecutive day. WHAT IS THIS FEAR OF FAKE VOTERS Earlier in the day, Tejashwis remarks on the SIR exercise in the Bihar assembly irked Nitish Kumar, triggering a war of words between the two. The chief minister resorted to personal attacks even as members on both the opposition and ruling sides used unparliamentary language against each other. Tejashwi was making a statement on the revision exercise when Nitish intervened and called him a child". The situation escalated quickly, prompting speaker Nand Kishor Yadav to adjourn the proceedings till 2 pm, barely 30 minutes after the House had convened at 11 am. Wearing a black T-shirt as a mark of protest against the Election Commissions (EC) exercise in the state, he was allowed by the speaker to make a statement on the issue. We are not opposed to the special intensive revision per se, but how the Election Commission has been carrying out the exercise is objectionable. Why so late, when elections are just around the corner? They could have conducted it a few months earlier," he said. Only two-three per cent of voters in the state may have the documents that the EC is asking them to produce. What is this fear of fake voters? Does the EC mean to say fake voters have made Narendra Modi the PM and Nitish Kumar the CM. The EC has also not spoken of any foreign nationals in the voters list in its affidavit before the Supreme Court." He sought to know the fate of nearly 4.5 crore residents of the state who are registered as voters, and come during elections from the places where they are eking out a living. The EC has threatened to strike off the names of people who were not found at their registered addresses". YOU ARE A CHILD, YOU KNOW NOTHING Nitish, who seemed unhappy with the discussion being allowed, rose in his seat to intervene. You are a child. You know nothing of matters like these. Only three days are left of this last session of the House. Let it conduct legislative business. Whatever rubbish you want to speak, you may do it to your hearts content during elections", he said. When his (Yadavs) parents were chief ministers, they did nothing, neither for the women, nor for Muslims, nor any other section of society. The only woman who got something was his mother." The 75-year-old longest-serving CM of Bihar has for most part been a BJP ally, except for two short-lived alliances with the RJD-Congress combine. He further told Tejashwi that he left the Mahagathbandhan because the RJD leader was not performing well" as the deputy CM. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The CMs cabinet colleagues were seen tugging at his sleeves to make him sit. He has lately made headlines for unrestrained behaviour in public. When he finally sat, several from the opposition side were on their feet, and those on the ruling side engaged in a shouting match. (With agency inputs) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 19:07 IST News elections 'SIR Exercise Dishonest': Tejashwi Hints At Poll Boycott, BJP Senses 'Fear Of Defeat' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... China Bars Two US Citizens From Leaving: What Are Exit Bans And How Do They Work? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 16:11 IST China imposed exit bans on two Americans, a Wells Fargo executive and a US government employee. What are exit bans and how do they work? China's exit bans are sometimes imposed for political reasons, experts have warned. China imposed exit bans on two American citizens- a Wells Fargo executive and an employee of the US government- just weeks ahead of a key trade deadline between the two countries. Chinas Foreign Ministry confirmed that it had placed an exit ban on Mao Chenyue, a banker working for Wells Fargo, saying she was involved in a criminal case" and was required to cooperate with the investigation. Read more: China Blocks US Commerce Department Official, Wells Fargo Banker From Leaving Country Recommended Stories Separately, the US State Department said that China blocked a Commerce Department employee- specifically from the United States Patent and Trademark Office- from leaving the country. The US Embassy in Beijing said that it had raised concerns about the use of arbitrary exit bans" with Chinese authorities, saying such actions damage bilateral relations. What Are Exit Bans Used For? Exit bans are legal tools that prevent individuals- both Chinese citizens and foreigners- from leaving the country. In many cases, authorities justify their use to keep suspects or witnesses in place during investigations, particularly if they are deemed a flight risk. Chinas exit bans are sometimes imposed for political reasons or as leverage in civil disputes, diplomatic stand-offs or even to pressure foreign governments, experts have warned. James Zimmerman, a Beijing-based lawyer and former chair of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said, Most of the time, there is a legitimate legal basis for the exit bans. But there are indeed instances of misuse of the process by the government authorities, including for political reasons." Who Can Be Subject To Exit Bans? While suspects and witnesses in criminal cases are often the most obvious targets, China has extended exit bans to individuals who are not directly involved in legal proceedings. Foreigners with ties to investigations involving state-owned enterprises (SOEs) may also be barred from leaving. There are also high-profile examples of exit bans being used coercively. In 2018, two American citizens- Victor and Cynthia Liu- were prevented from leaving China for three years in what US officials described as an effort to pressure their father, a Chinese fugitive wanted for financial crimes, to return. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all How Has China Expanded Its Use Of Exit Bans? In recent years, China has passed or amended several laws that give authorities broader powers to impose exit bans, especially under the banner of national security. A major change came in 2023, when the country revised its counterespionage law to allow exit bans for anyone under investigation who might pose a national security risk after leaving the country- even if no charges have been filed. Location : China First Published: July 23, 2025, 16:11 IST News explainers China Bars Two US Citizens From Leaving: What Are Exit Bans And How Do They Work? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:33 IST India and United Kingdom are set to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Thursday during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to UK. The trade agreement is said to be the highlight of PM Modis visit to UK and his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Union Commerce minister Piyush Goyal is accompanying PM Modi for the signing of the much-anticipated trade deal between the two nations. Several sectors across the two nations are set to benefit from the India-UK FTA that aims at boosting economic ties between the two countries by reducing or eliminating tariffs, easing market access, and encouraging investment and collaboration across multiple sectors. Textiles and apparels, gems and jewellery are some of the top sectors that stand to gain from this bilateral agreement. Heres a look at what sectors will benefit from this FTA and how. 1. Textiles & Apparel With the elimination of tariffs (previously ranging from 8 to 12 per cent) on Indian garments and home textiles entering the UK, India will become more competitive against Bangladesh and Vietnam in the UK market. The projected export growth for this sector is expected to reach up to 40 per cent in the next three years. Key hubs for these exports include Tiruppur, Surat, and Ludhiana. 2. Gems, Jewellery & Leather Gold, diamond jewellery, and leather goods will gain duty-free access to the UK. This will provide a significant boost for MSME exporters and luxury product manufacturers. Additionally, markets in Europe will be expanded via UK channels. 3. Engineering Goods & Auto Components The UK will remove tariffs on Indian machinery, tools, and vehicle parts. This will enable India to integrate more deeply into the UK and EU automotive and precision engineering supply chains. Key growth hubs for these exports will be Pune, Chennai, and Gurgaon. 4. IT & Professional Services Visa liberalisation and mutual recognition of qualifications in engineering, architecture, and accounting will result in more Indian professionals working in the IT, finance, legal, and healthcare sectors in the UK. It is estimated that this will create 60,000 new service sector jobs over the next five years. 5. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices India will benefit from regulatory easing, especially on generic medicines. Indian pharmaceutical companies will receive quicker approvals in the UK, and the UKs NHS system will open further to affordable Indian generics. 6. Food Processing, Tea, Spices & Marine Exports The UK will eliminate duties on Indian processed foods, basmati rice, shrimp, spices, and tea. This will boost exports from regions such as Kerala, Assam, Gujarat, and West Bengal. Premium Indian food brands are expected to gain a larger retail footprint in the UK. 7. Chemicals & Specialty Materials There will be tariff cuts for agrochemicals, industrial chemicals, and plastics. India is expected to double its chemical exports to the UK by 2030, providing a strong push for manufacturers in Gujarat and Maharashtra. 8. Green Energy & Cleantech Joint ventures and technology sharing for solar, hydrogen, energy storage, and EV infrastructure will be established. The UK is expected to invest in Indias renewable energy sector, opening opportunities for Indian firms to co-develop green tech solutions. 9. Alcoholic Beverages (Benefit For UK) India will reduce tariffs on Scotch whisky from 150 per cent to 30 per cent over the next ten years. This will allow UK spirits greater market access, while Indian hospitality and consumers will benefit from lower prices. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India stands to gain through increased exports in textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and services, while also attracting UK investments in clean energy and digital sectors. For the UK, the deal opens access to one of the worlds fastest-growing consumer markets, especially for Scotch whisky, financial services, and education. Professional mobility and collaboration in technology and innovation are also key benefits. Overall, the FTA strengthens strategic ties and aims to significantly boost bilateral trade and employment in both economies over the next decade. MKBHD's Escobar Fold Scam Episode Comes To A Poetic End: A Complete Timeline Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 19:57 IST Marques Brownlee aka MKBHD had first made a YouTube video on Escobar Inc, a company 'selling' folding phones for dirt-cheap prices. YouTuber MKBHD had exposed Escobar Fold scam in 2020. The CEO of Escobar Inc. faces 20+ years in jail. (MKBHD / YouTube) The year is 2020. Marques Brownlee, aka MKBHD, a tech YouTuber, orders an Escobar Fold 1 a foldable smartphone with an enticing price tag of $349. Yes, the same Pablo Escobar dubbed as the Drug Lord" and King of Cocaine" from Colombia, who led the Medellin Cartel. The mans cocaine trafficking business made him one of the wealthiest criminals in the history books as he reached the pinnacle through corruption, violence, and criminal activities. The phone company, Escobar Inc., that the tech YouTuber came across was associated with Roberto de Jesus Escobar Gaviria, Escobars brother. The CEO and mastermind? Olof Kyros Gustafsson. Come 2025, Olof Kyros Gustafsson pleaded guilty to fraud and money laundering charges. Recommended Stories How did we get here? Lets examine the timeline of one of the most bizarre phone scams in tech history. MKBHD Shows Interest In 2019, Marques Brownlee came across tech articles about Escobar Inc. selling foldable smartphones for a fraction of the price, and he was intrigued. This was when he decided to order an Escobar Fold 1. From the photos, the phone reminded the YouTuber of Royole FlexPai. He sensed something fishy. Surprise, surprise. He never got the phone shipped to him. Brownlee then showed his viewers a glimpse of Escobar Inc.s non-professional" website, which should have been an easy giveaway that the company was indeed a scam. Remarkably, Escobars smartphone company" had already launched" yet another fold, the Escobar Fold 2. So naturally, Brownlee shelled out $400 from his pocket to get a hands-on the device which looked like a Samsung Galaxy Fold, for a fraction of its price. Also Read: 5000 mAh Long Life: Reddit Spots Hilarious Typo In Donald Trumps T1 Phone Comically enough, the YouTuber was scammed again. Disappointed yet not surprised, Brownlee tweeted that he had ordered Escobar Folds and had received none. The same day, the YouTuber was greeted with an Escobar Fold 2 waiting at his doorstep. (MKBHD / YouTube) Holding two phones that felt essentially the same, Brownlee peeled off the gold foil on the Escobar Fold 2 that revealed the Samsung logo underneath. How were the Escobars able to ship a $1800 Samsung Galaxy Fold for a mere $400? Brownlee, in his video, theorised that the company" was shipping the phone to influencers who they believed would speak about Escobar Inc. and give them the leverage needed to run the scam. The rest of the world that ordered and paid for the fold never received one. What they did receive was Pablo Escobars brother Robertos autobiography or certificate of ownership" which was later used as a proof" by Olof Kyros Gustafsson, the Escobar CEO, to show that the products had been delivered, thereby rejecting refund requests from these buyers, a report in Techspot stated. Then, there was another phone, the Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, which in reality was just an iPhone 11 Pro. FBI, 2024 In 2024, Brownlee, in a video, revealed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had reached out to him in 2020 to investigate the possible scam Escobar Inc. was running. The FBI investigated communications between the Escobar company and the YouTubers team, while also seizing the device sent to him for further examination. Gustafsson In Trouble top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Escobar companys CEO Gustafsson, reportedly faces up to 20 years in federal prison on charges of fraud and 10 years for money laundering. He will be sentenced on December 5. Additionally, Gustafsson has agreed to pay $1.3 million in restitution to the customers his company duped. The report further added that Gustafsson had laundered $3,07,000 and was busted in Spain in a joint raid conducted by US Internal Revenue Service agents and the Spanish police. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 19:55 IST News explainers MKBHD's Escobar Fold Scam Episode Comes To A Poetic End: A Complete Timeline Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... NISAR: Rs 13,000-Crore ISRO-NASA Satellite To Scan Entire Earth In 12 Days, Launch On July 30 Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 11:51 IST NISAR, the $1.5-billion ISRO-NASA satellite launching July 30, will track Earths changes in real time, revolutionising disaster response, climate research, and food security NISAR is a powerful monitoring tool that allows timely, data-driven decisions which can save lives and protect natural ecosystems. (News18) On July 30, 2025, a landmark satellite mission is set to take off from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, marking a historic moment in space cooperation between India and the United States. The mission, titled NISAR, short for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, is an ambitious Earth observation initiative jointly developed by ISRO and NASA. With a cost of Rs 13,000 crore ($1.5 billion), it will provide the most precise, detailed imaging of Earth ever attempted. This project not only strengthens bilateral space ties but is expected to revolutionise environmental monitoring, disaster prediction, and climate data analysis across the globe. Recommended Stories What Makes NISAR Special? NISAR will be the first satellite in the world to operate simultaneously on two radar frequencies: NASAs L-band and ISROs S-band. The satellite, weighing 2,392 kg, will be launched aboard ISROs GSLV-F16 rocket into a 743 km sun-synchronous orbit. This orbit allows the satellite to collect consistent data regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. NISAR will capture high-resolution images of Earths surface every 12 days, providing an unprecedented frequency of observations. A Record-Breaking Investment With a development cost of $1.5 billion, NISAR is the most expensive Earth observation satellite ever built. Its sheer scale and advanced technology justify the investment. The satellite includes a 12-metre-long mesh antenna, one of the largest ever used, and a cutting-edge dual radar system capable of detecting centimetre-level movements in Earths surface. From earthquake shifts to glacial changes and subsidence, the data collected will be critical for understanding and managing natural hazards. ISROs Strategic Role And Contribution Indias space agency, ISRO, is contributing around Rs 788 crore to the mission. But the benefits go well beyond finances. NISAR will significantly boost Indias ability to: Detect earthquakes, floods, and landslides early Monitor soil moisture and crop conditions to enhance agricultural planning Track glacier retreat, deforestation, and wetland changes Support disaster relief and climate policy formulation All NISAR data will be freely available worldwide, further elevating Indias stature in global scientific and climate research. How Do The Dual Radars Work? NISARs twin radars serve complementary functions: NASAs L-band radar observes land masses, forests, snow, and deep soil structures. ISROs S-band radar focuses on finer details, including crop structures, shallow soil layers, and surface anomalies. Together, they will produce images at a 5 to 10 metre resolution over a swath width of up to 242 kilometres, every 12 days. What Will NISAR Monitor? The satellite is engineered for real-time tracking of significant changes in the Earths surface, including: Earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic activity Ice sheet movement and glacier melt Deforestation, crop growth, and vegetation shifts Soil moisture, wetland status, and lake levels Disaster impact assessment following cyclones, floods, tsunamis, and wildfires This powerful monitoring tool will allow for timely, data-driven decisions that can save lives and protect natural ecosystems. A Mission For The Planet, Not Just India And USA NISAR is not just a symbol of India-US space cooperation, it is a mission for humanity. Its wide-ranging data will be vital for: top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Urban development Climate change mitigation Food and water security Environmental protection Defence and security planning As climate and environmental concerns grow more urgent, NISAR offers a new lens to understand our planetand act in time. First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:51 IST News explainers NISAR: Rs 13,000-Crore ISRO-NASA Satellite To Scan Entire Earth In 12 Days, Launch On July 30 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Ukraine Protests Zelenskyys New Anti-Corruption Law: Whats Behind The Backlash? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 16:48 IST Zelenskyy faces protests after signing a law weakening anti-corruption bodies NABU and SAPO, sparking fears it undermines Ukraine's EU aspirations and democracy. Around 1,500 protesters gathered outside the presidential administration in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing rare public protests and growing criticism from civil society and international allies after signing into law a controversial bill that weakens Kyivs core anti-corruption institutions. The move has shocked many Ukrainians, some of whom are comparing the moment to the countrys pre-2014 era of political opacity and authoritarian drift. What Is The New Law? Recommended Stories The legislation effectively undermines the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO)- bodies created to investigate and prosecute high-level corruption, including within the government and judiciary. The new law grants sweeping authority to the prosecutor general, allowing greater government control over which corruption cases are pursued. Crowds are surging in Kyiv with people protesting against the governments attacks on the anti-corruption institutions. Signs and Chants range from Ukraine will be saved by the armed forces and institutions and bring back Europe to we are f**** tired of the Office of President. pic.twitter.com/9nR1pQMpYp Mattia Nelles (@mattia_n) July 22, 2025 What Has Zelenskyy Said On The New Law? Zelenskyy defended the new law and said that it would not compromise the work of anti-corruption bodies but rather help cleanse" them of lingering Russian influence. He said, There must be more justice. Of course, NABU and SAPO will continue their work. Its also important that the prosecutor general be committed to ensuring real accountability for those who break the law. This is what Ukraine truly needs." Zelenskyy said he had consulted with NABU chief Semen Kryvonos and top prosecutors before making the decision. A protest against authorities decision earlier today to kill Ukraines anti-corruption infrastructure. First mass protest in Ukraine since full-scale Russian invasion. Video by @ukrpravda_news pic.twitter.com/bQDSNZtTlB Hlib Vyshlinsky (@hlib) July 22, 2025 What Ukrainians Are Saying On The New Law? Around 1,500 protesters gathered outside the presidential administration in Kyiv, chanting Shame!" and holding signs reading Veto the law." Protests also broke out in Lviv, Dnipro and Odesa where demonstrators included students, activists, veterans and prominent public figures who warned that the law could stall Ukraines progress toward joining the EU and pull the country back toward a more authoritarian model like Russia. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all What Has The International Reaction Been? Western supporters, including European officials, voiced concern as Marta Kos, the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, said dismantling NABUs independence was a serious step back" and could hurt Ukraines path to joining the European Union. Former US ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul and former Estonian president Toomas Hendrik Ilves echoed that sentiment. Location : Ukraine First Published: July 23, 2025, 16:48 IST News explainers Ukraine Protests Zelenskyys New Anti-Corruption Law: Whats Behind The Backlash? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Is The India-UK FTA, How Did It Come About & Why Its Being Called A Big Win For Both Sides? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:33 IST This Free Trade Agreement will be Indias most significant pact with a Western economy and the UKs most expansive trade deal since exiting the European Union PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations, according to the MEA. (Image: AFP/File) India and the United Kingdom have finalised a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that is poised to reshape their bilateral economic relationship. Finalised after nearly three years of negotiations and under multiple UK governments, the deal is set to be formally signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to London on July 24, 2025. Once in force, it will reduce or eliminate tariffs across a broad spectrum of goods, enhance access for services, and simplify regulations that have long hindered trade between the two countries. This FTA will be Indias most significant agreement with a Western economy and the UKs most expansive trade deal since exiting the European Union. The UK government has described it as the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade agreement it had signed since leaving the EU in 2020," according to a report by Reuters. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has called it a watershed moment in our trade diplomacy with the West" that opens up enormous opportunities for Indian businesses and professionals." Recommended Stories Heres a comprehensive look at what the IndiaUK FTA entails, how it came about, and what it means for businesses, workers, and consumers on both sides. How Did The India-UK FTA Come About? Talks around a deeper trade partnership between India and the UK began as early as 2021. In May that year, both countries agreed on an Enhanced Trade Partnership, which would lay the groundwork for a full-fledged FTA. Formal negotiations were launched in January 2022. The process, however, was not without its delays. Political transitions in both countries, including a change in prime ministers in the UK and Indias general elections, caused pauses in the process. After Keir Starmer became British Prime Minister in mid-2024, the negotiations regained momentum. By early 2025, the final stages of the agreement were underway. On May 6, 2025, both sides announced that the agreement had been finalised. The agreement was approved by the Union Cabinet on Tuesday and is scheduled to be formally signed on July 24, 2025, during Prime Minister Modis visit to London. The PM will be accompanied by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. What Are The Key Features Of The Agreement? The India-UK FTA is designed to cover more than just trade in goods. It includes commitments on services, investment facilitation, labour mobility, public procurement, and cooperation on technical standards. However, certain sectors such as agriculture and sensitive financial services have been kept out of its purview for now. One of the most important elements of the agreement is the reduction of tariffs. India has agreed to lower or eliminate duties on around 90 per cent of goods imported from the UK. In return, the UK will provide duty-free access to approximately 99 per cent of Indian exports. Among the headline announcements, India will significantly reduce tariffs on premium UK products. According to a report by Reuters, the import duty on Scotch whisky and gin will be reduced from 150 per cent to 75 per cent immediately, and further to 40 per cent over a 10-year period as part of the phased tariff schedule. British automobile exports will also benefit from a sharp reduction in tariffs, with duties dropping from over 100 per cent to 10 per cent under a specific quota. On the Indian side, sectors such as textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, chemicals, auto components, and engineering goods will gain from zero or reduced tariffs when entering the UK market. These sectors collectively account for a large share of Indias labour-intensive manufacturing base. The agreement also includes provisions for a social security exemption. Indian professionals working in the UK will now be exempt from making social security contributions for the first three years. According to government estimates, this exemption alone will save Indian workers approximately Rs 4,000 crore each year. How Will The FTA Help Indian Businesses? For Indian businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, the removal of tariffs offers a significant competitive edge. In the textiles sector, where Indian exports often face stiff competition from countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam, the new deal is expected to level the playing field. Indian exporters will now have better pricing power in the UK market, particularly in garments and home furnishings. The gems and jewellery sector, centred in cities like Surat and Mumbai, is expected to benefit from easier access and lower costs, making Indian exports more attractive in the UKs high-value market. Similarly, sectors like leather, handicrafts, and engineering goods are likely to see increased order volumes as duties drop and logistical barriers ease. Crucially, the agreement simplifies regulatory standards for various products. Technical barriers to trade, such as duplicative testing requirements or product certifications, will now be streamlined. This will reduce compliance costs and speed up market access for Indian manufacturers. India has also secured better mobility provisions for its professionals, including chefs, yoga instructors, musicians, and IT specialists. These professionals will be able to work in the UK under less restrictive visa conditions, although the exact modalities of this arrangement are expected to be outlined in a separate implementation document. Whats In It For The UK? For the United Kingdom, the deal marks a strategic win in the post-Brexit landscape. As the country looks to build new trade ties outside the EU, India, with its vast consumer base and growing middle class, offers a vital market. British exporters of premium goods like whisky, high-end automobiles, and medical devices will now face significantly lower entry barriers. The UK has also secured access to Indias public procurement market, which is estimated to be worth over Rs 38,000 crore annually. British firms will be able to bid for select Indian government contracts in non-sensitive sectors, a first for any trade partner. According to a report by Reuters, the UK government estimates that the agreement will add 4.8 billion a year to the UKs GDP by 2040. Separately, the World Economic Forum, in a 2025 trade insight paper, projected that bilateral trade between India and the UK could increase by up to $34 billion annually by 2040 as a direct outcome of the FTA. Consumers in the UK stand to benefit from cheaper imports of Indian textiles, processed foods, footwear, and pharmaceuticals. With tariffs removed, retailers and manufacturers can reduce prices or improve margins, potentially passing on the gains to end-users. What Has Been Left Out? While the deal covers a wide range of sectors, some sensitive areas have been consciously left out. Agriculture, in particular, has not been included, in line with Indias consistent approach in trade negotiations to protect domestic producers in this politically sensitive sector. Another unresolved issue is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which the UK has been exploring in alignment with emerging EU practices. India has expressed concerns about the potential impact of carbon-linked tariffs on key exports like steel, aluminium, and fertilisers, especially from energy-intensive manufacturing. These climate-related trade measures are not part of the FTA and may be revisited in future dialogues. The Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), though discussed in parallel, remains under negotiation. While the FTA includes investment facilitation provisions, a separate, standalone BIT is expected to follow. India has generally advocated for clearer protections against investor-state dispute misuse, particularly in taxation and regulatory matters, a position that has shaped its recent treaty models. For now, the BIT will be addressed through a separate track. What Are Experts Saying? British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described the FTA as the UKs most significant trade agreement since leaving the European Union," highlighting its strategic importance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a trade outreach in June, called it a new era of mutual benefit and shared prosperity" between the two democracies. The World Economic Forums Viraj Mehta described the deal as a template for the kind of ambitious, pragmatic trade deals India is now willing to pursue." Some economists have observed that the FTA also aligns with broader geopolitical goals, including efforts by both nations to reduce trade dependence on China. However, not all assessments have been glowing. UK-based think tank Chatham House noted that while the agreement is commercially important, it is not transformative," and advised London to embed its engagement with India within a more comprehensive Indo-Pacific strategy. When Will The India-UK FTA Come Into Effect? The final signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement is scheduled for July 24, 2025, during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to London. Once the ceremonial signing is complete, the agreement must undergo ratification by the UK Parliament under its treaty approval process. India has already granted Cabinet-level approval, and preparatory administrative work is underway on its side. Officials from both governments expect the FTA to come into force by mid-2026. In the meantime, technical working groups will be engaged in finalising implementation protocols, including phased tariff reductions, mobility arrangements, and public procurement access procedures. The Road Ahead With negotiations concluded and the signing scheduled, the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement now enters its ratification and implementation phase. Both governments aim to bring the deal into force by mid-2026, following legislative approvals and administrative readiness. Technical teams from both sides will coordinate on detailed implementation plans, including tariff schedules, mobility protocols, and procurement access frameworks. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all While the agreement covers a broad range of sectors, key areas such as agriculture, carbon taxation, and investment protection remain outside its current scope. These issues may be revisited in future negotiations, depending on evolving domestic and global priorities. The agreements impact on trade volumes, sectoral competitiveness, and investment flows will depend on how efficiently the two governments execute the agreed terms and how businesses respond to the new market conditions. About the Author Karishma Jain Karishma Jain, Chief Sub Editor at News18.com, writes and edits opinion pieces on a variety of subjects, including Indian politics and policy, culture and the arts, technology and social change. Follow her @kar... Read More Karishma Jain, Chief Sub Editor at News18.com, writes and edits opinion pieces on a variety of subjects, including Indian politics and policy, culture and the arts, technology and social change. Follow her @kar... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 12:30 IST News explainers What Is The India-UK FTA, How Did It Come About & Why Its Being Called A Big Win For Both Sides? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Who Is Conner Estelle And Why Is Internet Celebrating 'Fascist' Losing His Job? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 15:11 IST Connor Estelle has gone viral for admitting that he is a fascist which resulted in him losing his job. Connor Estelle, fired over controversial views, has started a fund raiser. (Jubilee / YouTube) A mans self-confession that he is a fascist resulted in him being fired from his job. Conner Estelle recently appeared on an episode of Jubilee where he faced journalist Mehdi Hasan. The episode titled 1 Progressive vs 20 Far-Right Conservatives" featured Hasan going against 20 far-right conservatives. The episode, uploaded on Sunday, has raked in upwards of 5 million views after the controversial views shared by some of the participants. However, it was Hasans interaction with Estelle that grabbed the most attention from social media users. Recommended Stories Heres the timeline of events that have unfolded thus far: Estelle Doesnt Hold Back Jubilee, a media company renowned for videos that bring together people with diverse perspectives to discuss social and political issues, encourages open dialogue through a shared platform. It recently released a 1-hour and 40-minute video featuring 20 far-right conservatives candidly sharing their beliefs. Conner Estelle, among the 20, gained notoriety after he confessed that he was a fascist. I, frankly, dont care being called a Nazi at all." When Hasan asked Estelle if he were a fan of the Nazis, the latter said: Well, they persecuted the church a little bit. I am not a fan of that." When quizzed about the persecution of the jews, Estelle responded by saying that he did not support any human beings dignity being assaulted as he identified as a catholic. On being asked if he condemned the Nazi persecution of the jews, Estelle, in a casual tone, said: I think there was a little persecution of the jews." His name is Connor James Estelle. Hes a Catholic commentator known as Pinesap."He said this to @mehdirhasan, and got fired from his job. Boo hoo. Ita semper fascistis. Thus always to fascists.#ItaSemperFascistis #MAGAHallOfShame #ConnorEstellepic.twitter.com/xp9LrVh2gq Turn Tennessee Blue. (@TurnTNBlue) July 22, 2025 The following day, Estelle appeared on a RiftTV podcast where he revealed that he had been fired from his job after his contentious views were aired on-air. Unfortunately, I lost my job as a result. And no one really is to be blamed for that. Its just the culture that kind of exists currently surrounding the manner in which you are cancelled for voicing," he said. GiveSendGo Estelle then started a fundraiser as an emergency fund" on GiveSendGo in a bid to raise $15K. Blaming the cancel culture and political discrimination, the fascist man hoped for donations from those who agreed with his beliefs and supported voicing such views as they were fully legal". My name is Connor and I was recently shown in the latest Jubilee episode, as a result, unfortunately I was subsequently released from my job. Im raising money as an emergency fund and for other expenses while I look for a new job. Unfortunately voicing fully legal traditional right wing political views results in real consequences. This is cancel culture and political discrimination on full display." (GiveSendGo) At the time of writing this, the fundraiser has exceeded the goal, and the raised amount is a touch over $34K. Internet Rejoices Estelles controversial digital footprint was dug by Internet sleuths who celebrated his recent unemployment but urged companies and potential employers to beware of his inflammatory posts and beliefs he exhibits in public. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Pinesap is Connor James Estelle from Colorado. Make sure everyone potentially hiring him knows he is a fascist. pic.twitter.com/X2hoDKyC7C truthlafayette (@truthlafayette) July 22, 2025 Connor Estelles shameless embrace of fascist ideology not only cost him his job but also exposed him as a dangerous relic of hate, unfit for any civilized workplace," a user on X wrote. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 15:11 IST News explainers Who Is Conner Estelle And Why Is Internet Celebrating 'Fascist' Losing His Job? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Bulawayo proportional representation legislator Thokozani Khupe has raised alarm over what she described as a lack of transparency and fairness in the selection of students at Mpilo School of Nursing, calling for urgent government intervention to ensure accountability.Speaking in the National Assembly last week, Khupe said there were growing concerns that many academically qualified applicants were being excluded from the selection process without explanation, with some not even being called for interviews."This raises serious concerns about the selection process," Khupe said, urging the Ministry of Health and Child Care to ensure that the admissions are inclusive and uphold regional balance."As a public institution, Mpilo School of Nursing should prioritise students from Bulawayo and surrounding areas," she said.Khupe further requested that the Minister of Health and Child Care present a detailed ministerial statement outlining the total number of applicants, the gender breakdown, and the criteria used to shortlist candidates."We need clarity on the selection process and whether regional balance was considered. Students who feel unfairly excluded from this opportunity deserve answers," she added.In response, Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda acknowledged the gravity of the concerns raised and assured that the minister would be instructed to issue a national statement addressing the issue."We will proceed to ask the Minister of Health to present a ministerial statement accordingly, and it should be national," Mudenda said.Khupe also noted that the controversy surrounding the admissions has stirred anxiety among students and community members in Bulawayo, who are eagerly awaiting clarity on how the selection process was conducted.Her intervention has brought renewed attention to long-standing grievances about regional marginalisation and lack of transparency in access to public training institutions, particularly in Matabeleland. Doha-Bound Air India Express Flight Returns To Calicut Due To Technical Glitch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:19 IST An Air India Express flight from Calicut to Doha returned due to a technical issue. The aircraft, with 188 passengers onboard, landed back safely around two hours after takeoff. An Air India Express flight (Photo: PTI) An Air India Express flight from Calicut returned to its origin two hours after takeoff on Wednesday after technical issues were detected on the aircraft. The Air India Express flight IX 375 had took off for Doha at nearly 9.05 am today, and landed back at Keralas Kozhikode airport at nearly 11.15 am, it was known. Recommended Stories There were 188 people on the flight, including the pilots and crew. There was a technical issue in the aircrafts cabin AC. It was not an emergency landing," news agency PTI quoted an official as saying. The passengers have been deboarded, he said and added that either the technical issue would be rectified or another aircraft would be arranged for the travellers to resume their journey. Later, in an official statement, a spokesperson for the airline said an alternative aircraft was arranged and departed. One of our flights returned to Kohzikode after take-off due to a technical issue," the spokesperson said. We arranged an alternative aircraft on priority, provided the guests with refreshments during the delay, and the flight has since departed," the airline statement said. We regret the inconvenience and reiterate that safety remains our top priority in every aspect of our operations," it added. This comes a day after an Air India flight operating from Hong Kong to New Delhi on Tuesday suffered an auxiliary power unit (APU) fire, shortly after the aircraft landed at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport. According to the airline, the incident occurred while the aircraft was parked at the gate and passengers had begun to disembark. Flight AI 315, operating from Hong Kong to Delhi on 22 July 2025, experienced an auxiliary power unit (APU) fire shortly after it had landed and parked at the gate. The incident occurred while passengers had begun disembarking, and the APU was automatically shut down as per system design," an Air India spokesperson said in a statement. The APU allows an aircraft to operate autonomously without relying on ground support equipment. Earlier, on Monday evening, a technical issue was detected during the take-off roll of Air India flight AI2403 from Delhi to Kolkata. The detection led the cockpit crew to abort the take-off in line with established safety protocols. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all All passengers were safely disembarked. ALSO READ | Air India Plane Catches Fire After Landing At Delhi Airport, Passengers Safe About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:03 IST News india Doha-Bound Air India Express Flight Returns To Calicut Due To Technical Glitch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Atheist Krishna, Famous Photoshop Artist Who Made PM Modi Laugh, Passes Away Due To Pneumonia Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 11:54 IST Atheist Krishna was a popular content creator known for his hilarious Photoshop memes. His work was acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and actor Akshay Kumar. Content creator Atheist Krishna passed away due to pneumonia. (Photo: X) Popular Photoshop artist and content creator Atheist Krishna, who was known for his humour-driven memes, passed away due to pneumonia, leaving his followers in shock as condolences poured in from other influencers. According to a social media user, Krishna had messaged him saying that he caught pneumonia, has water in his lungs and needs to be operated. It would be a miracle if I survive this," he said. On Wednesday, the user received a message from his brother, saying that Krishna had passed away. Recommended Stories Woke up to the terrible news of @Atheist_Krishna passing away. He was one of the kindest people I met on this platform. On 10th July, he told me he was unwell and needs to be operated. He caught pneumonia," the user said. Woke up to the terrible news of @Atheist_Krishna passing away.He was one of the kindest people I met on this platform. On 10th July, he told me he was unwell and needs to be operated.He caught pneumonia. At that time, he said it would be a miracle if I survive this." I pic.twitter.com/Fmo6AJFZhW tere naina (@nainaverse) July 23, 2025 Atheist_Krishna was originally from Odisha, later based in Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad. He rose to popularity after a spoof video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi dancing on stage before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which was proudly shared by the Prime Minister himself on X. Like all of you, I also enjoyed seeing myself dance. Such creativity in peak poll season is truly a delight! #PollHumour," the Prime Minister wrote in his post on X. Like all of you, I also enjoyed seeing myself dance. Such creativity in peak poll season is truly a delight! #PollHumour https://t.co/QNxB6KUQ3R Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 6, 2024 PM Modis likeness was superimposed over the original video of American rapper Lil Yachty making a stage entrance. The video came shortly after a similar video featuring West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee led to the issuing of notices to the X users who shared the clips. Krishna was a brilliant mind. Among his many remarkable works, this one stood out delivering its message with a gentle smile. Journey on, dear friend," said author and political commentator Anand Ranganathan. Shocked and stunned by the tragic news of the passing away of @Atheist_Krishna. Such a kind-hearted soul. Gone too soon.Krishna was a brilliant mind. Among his many remarkable works, this one stood out delivering its message with a gentle smile. Journey on, dear friend. pic.twitter.com/QmbM4wTavf Anand Ranganathan (@ARanganathan72) July 23, 2025 Krishna also received praise from Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, saying his splendid work had brought smiles to peoples faces. Kumar encouraged him to continue his work with his clean humour. I showed one of your memes to our Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he also had a hearty laugh Keep bringing a smile on peoples face with your clean and honest humour. You will receive a lot of blessings. Keep it up," Kumar said. Overwhelmed, Krishna had captioned the post, WOOOOOW!!!! This is the best thing that happened to me on Twitter. Thank you @akshaykumar Sir." Several celebrities and influencers on social media mourned the loss of the photoshop artist and expressed their condolences. Shocked to hear that @Atheist_Krishna, the Prince of funny Photoshop videos, is no longer with us.I dont know why he is gone so young, but I wish his soul travels well.Thanks for all the laughter. And goodbye.Om shanti. pic.twitter.com/ob9wbnfjS2 Abhijit Majumder (@abhijitmajumder) July 23, 2025 The timeline feels emptier today!@Atheist_Krishna wasnt just a master of visual satire, he was emotion wrapped in sarcasm and humour. His Photoshop jokes made us smile and laugh, but his silence today leaves a void. Youll be missed, Krishna. Om Shanti Rupali Ganguly (@TheRupali) July 23, 2025 The news of @Atheist_Krishnas passing is unbelievably shocking.His last tweet was on July 8, and this morning we hear about his demise. Life is truly unpredictable. He was so young. I dont know the reason, but it really feels like theres no certainty in life anymore. Om Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) July 23, 2025 Shocked to hear about the demise of @Atheist_Krishna. One of the OGs of Indian Twitter. Sagar (@sagarcasm) July 23, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Just came to know about the devastating news of the untimely death of @Atheist_Krishna.A great human, a gifted artist and a true son of Bharat Mata, he used to bring life to the old and damaged pictures of loved ones of many. Praying to MAHADEV for the sadgati of the departed pic.twitter.com/xnEYloxfdG Pranav Mahajan (@pranavmahajan) July 23, 2025 The timeline feels emptier today! @Atheist_Krishna wasnt just a master of visual satire, he was emotion wrapped in sarcasm and humour. His Photoshop jokes made us smile and laugh, but his silence today leaves a void. Youll be missed, Krishna. Om Shanti," said actress and BJP leader Rupali Ganguly. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:42 IST News india Atheist Krishna, Famous Photoshop Artist Who Made PM Modi Laugh, Passes Away Due To Pneumonia Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Balancing Faith & Ecology: Maharashtra Clears Way For Sea Immersion Of Big Ganesh Idols Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 15:44 IST The court was hearing the matter after concerns were raised over the ban on Plaster of Paris idols and the possible shift of all idol immersions to artificial ponds The state assured the court that strict measures will be taken to ensure that the immersion process is eco-friendly. (PTI) The Maharashtra government, in an important development for devotees and artisans alike, has informed the Bombay High Court that large Ganesh idols made by Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandals will continue to be immersed in the seajust as tradition demandswhile ensuring all necessary environmental safeguards. The states assurance came through an affidavit submitted on Wednesday, marking a balanced approach between cultural faith and ecological responsibility. The court was hearing the matter after concerns were raised over the ban on Plaster of Paris (POP) idols and the possible shift of all idol immersions to artificial ponds. Recommended Stories The POP ban had threatened the livelihoods of thousands of idol makers across Maharashtra, who have been crafting these traditional idols for generations. Recognising this, cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar pushed for a scientific review. The Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission, under the guidance of noted scientist Dr Anil Kakodkar, studied POPs impact on the environment and suggested solutions to manage its use responsibly. Based on Kakodkars report, the Union ministry of environment submitted its findings, leading to the lifting of the blanket ban on POP idols. The high court then asked the state government to clearly state its policy on idol immersion, especially for the large idols worshipped by big Ganesh Mandals that draw lakhs of devotees. On Wednesday, Advocate General Birendra Saraf appeared before Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne and presented the states stand. The government said big idols will be allowed to be immersed in the sea, upholding a legacy that Mumbai has cherished for over a century. However, domestic Ganesh idols below a certain height will still be immersed in artificial ponds, a practice that has helped reduce the load on natural water bodies. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The state also assured the court that strict measures will be taken to ensure that the immersion process is eco-friendly. This includes special zones, clean-up drives, and steps to prevent water pollution. For thousands of Mandals, artisans, and devotees, this news comes as a big relief. It keeps alive the spirit of Mumbais Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, while showing that tradition and environmental care can go hand in hand. The hearing on the matter will continue on Thursday. About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 15:44 IST News india Balancing Faith & Ecology: Maharashtra Clears Way For Sea Immersion Of Big Ganesh Idols Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bihar Electoral Roll Revision: Missing 56 Lakh Voters Will Be Dropped Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 18:13 IST The ECI said among the 56 lakh, at least 20 lakh are dead, 28 lakh permanently migrated, seven lakh registered at more than one place and one lakh untraceable The special revision is part of the ECs broader effort to ensure accuracy in the electoral rolls ahead of the elections to be held later this year. File pic/News18 With just two days left for the July 25 deadline to submit enumeration forms under Bihars Special Intensive Revision (SIR), at least one lakh electors remain untraceable, the Election Commission has found. In total, more than 56 lakh names are set to be dropped from the draft roll as of Wednesday. As per the data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), among the names which will be dropped from the draft roll, expected on August 1, at least 20 lakh are reported dead, 28 lakh permanently migrated, seven lakh registered at more than one place and one lakh untraceable voters. Recommended Stories Speaking to News18, a poll body official said that cleaning of the roll before the elections will eliminate bogus voting by removing names of the deceased, those who have shifted, duplicate entries, illegal migrants, and non-existent voters. The poll body on Wednesday evening shared that over 98% electors have been covered under the drive. #Facts revealed from #BiharSIR so far 18 lakh deceased electors reported 26 lakh electors shifted to different constituencies, and 7 lakh electors enrolled at two places Read more : https://t.co/MGn3BJEFfg pic.twitter.com/LVpO4vMYHA Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) July 22, 2025 A total of 7.17 crore electors have submitted the enumeration forms which also have been digitised. Just 15 lakh enumeration forms are remaining, the ECI said. The poll body also said that Bihar electors who are temporarily residing outside the state, and have not registered as electors elsewhere, can fill their form online at https://electors.eci.gov.in or through the ECINet mobile app, or take a printout of the form. They can fill and sign the printed form and send it to their BLO through a family member, or they can fill and sign their printed form and send the printed form to BLOs mobile via WhatsApp," the ECI added. The names of electors who have submitted the enumeration form will be included in the Draft Electoral Roll. Electors can confirm the submission of their forms at https://electors.eci.gov.in/home/enumFormTrack#. The Commission has sent SMS messages to all such electors whose mobile numbers are given in the enumeration forms," the ECI said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On August 1, at the completion of the first phase of SIR, the draft electoral roll will be published. If there is any error in the draft electoral roll, any elector or political party can file an objection regarding the inclusion of the name of any proposed elector with the concerned ERO or AERO of that Assembly Constituency by September 1. Similarly, if any eligible person does not find their name in the Draft Electoral Roll, they can file their claims up to September 1," the ECI said. The SIR drive is seen as a crucial step towards cleaning and strengthening Bihars electoral rolls ahead of the upcoming elections to be held towards the year-end. About the Author Nivedita Singh Nivedita Singh is a data journalist and covers the Election Commission, Indian Railways and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. She has nearly seven years of experience in the news media. She tweets @nived... Read More Nivedita Singh is a data journalist and covers the Election Commission, Indian Railways and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. She has nearly seven years of experience in the news media. She tweets @nived... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:13 IST News india Bihar Electoral Roll Revision: Missing 56 Lakh Voters Will Be Dropped Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Chaos On Delhi Streets As Kanwariyas Flout Rules; Cops Say 'Our Hands Are Tied' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:24 IST Residents across several areas said they felt unsafe and claimed police were deliberately avoiding action against the devotees Vehicles stuck in traffic jam due to movement of 'Kanwariyas' on the eve of conclusion of the 'Kanwar Yatra' during the holy month of 'Shravan', on the Delhi- Haridwar Expressway. (PTI photo) Residents in Delhi have alleged police inaction as large groups of Kanwariyas flouted traffic and noise rules during the Kanwar Yatra, causing widespread disruption and discomfort across the city. Despite multiple complaints from locals about loud music, traffic blockages, and unruly behaviour, especially during late hours, Delhi Police did not register a single FIR against Kanwariyas since Friday. Recommended Stories According to a report by Hindustan Times, residents across several areas said they felt unsafe and claimed police were deliberately avoiding action against the devotees. Complaints ranged from blaring boomboxes playing past 10pm to groups occupying parks and roads, with police allegedly choosing to look the other way. We have been asked by the top bosses to not take any strict action against kanwars. There is nothing we can do except politely ask them to adhere to the laws. Mostly, they dont but our hands are tied," said an assistant sub-inspector posted in South Delhi. A senior police officer said they had received nearly 250 complaints between Friday and Wednesday. Only a few minor cases were registered before the Yatra officially began on Friday, some of which involved people getting seriously injured. During the main days of the procession, no official cases were filed. Several residents said they had to change their daily behaviour to avoid any conflict. I didnt wear shorts in my locality while walking because some groups of kanwars were entering our locality to sit in our park. I felt extremely uncomfortable. Most of them were smoking," said a 28-year-old woman living near Apsara Border in Shahdara. Others shared their concerns about returning home late. My shift in the Gurugram office ends at 9:30pm. I usually reach home by 11:30pm and mine is the last stop. The last few days, I felt so uneasy and uncomfortable even when the driver and security guard were with me because these people are huge in numbers. I was worried something untoward wouldnt happen," said Shweta Arora, a resident of Kirti Nagar. Reports of violence were also recorded. The kanwariya who was touched by the vehicle wasnt even carrying the holy water. He was only walking but still they all got together and broke the cabs front view mirror. Three-four of us saved the cab driver from being beaten up. Police was called but they didnt take any action," said Pritam Pal Singh, a 55-year-old auto driver. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday had praised the arrangements made for the Yatra. She said grants were given to 374 Kanwar committees and that camps had been equipped with health services, electricity, toilets, and cleaning staff. She also announced that five lakh Kanwariyas would receive jute bags and Ganga water pails to promote eco-friendly practices. The Kanwar Yatra, which ended on July 23, involves devotees of Lord Shiva fetching holy water from the Ganges and offering it at local temples during the Shravan month. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:21 IST News india Chaos On Delhi Streets As Kanwariyas Flout Rules; Cops Say 'Our Hands Are Tied' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... CJI Gavai Declines To Hear Justice Varmas Plea, Directs Listing Before Another Bench Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 11:24 IST Chief Justice BR Gavai said it may not be proper for him to take up Justice Yashwant Varmas plea challenging the in-house panels findings in the cash-at-residence case. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai (News18) Chief Justice BR Gavai on Wednesday said it may not be proper for him to take up Justice Yashwant Varmas plea challenging the in-house panels findings in the cash-at-residence case. The top court added that it will constitute a bench to hear Justice Varmas plea. The matter was mentioned today before the bench of CJI BR Gavai, Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi. Recommended Stories Senior advocates, including Kapil Sibal, Mukul Rohatgi, Rakesh Dwivedi, Sidharth Luthra and Siddharth Aggarwal, appeared for Justice Verma and submitted that they have filed the petition on behalf of the Allahabad High Court Judge. Some constitutional issues are there. I request you to constitute a bench as soon as possible," the advocates mentioned. Responding to the request, CJI said that it may not be proper for him to take up that matter."We will just take a call and constitute a bench," he then told the counsel. In his petition, Justice Varma argued that the in-house probe panel reached its conclusions without granting him a fair chance to present his case. He claimed the panel acted with a pre-set approach, drawing adverse inferences despite lacking concrete evidence and by effectively shifting the burden of proof onto him. He has also contested former Chief Justice Sanjiv Khannas recommendation to the President and Prime Minister, calling for impeachment proceedings to be initiated against him. The case stems from the shocking discovery of a large stash of cash found at an outhouse of Justice Yashwant Varmas official residencethen serving as a judge of the Delhi High Courtduring a firefighting operation on March 14. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The incident triggered public outcry, prompting then Chief Justice Khanna to set up an in-house inquiry panel comprising Justice Sheel Nagu (then Chief Justice of the Punjab & Haryana High Court), Justice GS Sandhawalia (then Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court), and Justice Anu Sivaraman (Judge, Karnataka High Court). Following this, Justice Varma was sent back to the Allahabad High Court and was relieved of judicial responsibilities pending the outcome of the inquiry. First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:04 IST News india CJI Gavai Declines To Hear Justice Varmas Plea, Directs Listing Before Another Bench Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Conversion Mafia Busted: Inside UP Polices Operation In Kolkata To Rescue 'Agra Sisters' Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:42 IST News18 delves deep into Mission Asmita, uncovering how a mix of intelligence coordination, cultural camouflage, and digital surveillance helped crack the case. Follow us on: Police investigations have revealed that Abdul Rehman Qureshi, formerly Mahendra Pal, is not just a lone preacher but the alleged kingpin of a sprawling conversion syndicate that has radicalised and converted over 200 individuals across India in recent years. (Image: News18) Wearing kurta-pyjamas, skull caps, and blending seamlessly into a Muslim-dominated neighbourhood of Kolkata, a 48-member team of UP Police and ATS posed as daily wage workers and tenants for five days. Their target was a discreet safehouse where two radicalised sisters from Agra had taken shelter under the influence of a notorious conversion agent. The covert operation culminated in a dramatic rescue and the arrest of Abdul Rehman Qureshi, born Mahendra Pal, who police say is a key player in a sprawling religious conversion syndicate stretching across multiple states. News18 delved deep into the high-stakes rescue dubbed Mission Asmita, uncovering how a mix of intelligence coordination, cultural camouflage, and digital surveillance helped crack open a secretive network. The breakthrough comes just days after the sensational arrest of Chhangur Baba, another high-profile figure allegedly involved in a parallel conversion racket operating from a temple compound. Both cases, senior officials say, point to a deep-rooted national conspiracy that uses emotional and religious manipulation to radicalise and convert vulnerable individuals, particularly women. Recommended Stories Mission Asmita: Five Days, One Safehouse, and the Moment of Truth The rescue followed the mysterious disappearance of two sisters from Agra in March 2025. While an abduction FIR was initially lodged, clues pointed towards a deeper conspiracy. Intelligence inputs hinted that the sisters were being held and radicalised in a densely populated locality of Kolkata. The area was flagged as extremely sensitive known for hostility towards outsiders. To avoid confrontation and remain inconspicuous, Agra Police deployed Muslim personnel and instructed others to dress in ethnic Muslim attire. Over the next five days, the undercover team tried to locate the safehouse first by attempting to rent rooms, then by trailing outsiders making repeated visits to a particular home. Finally, the sisters were found both in hijab and resistant to leaving. Our purpose is fulfilled," they reportedly told police. But after counselling by female officers, the sisters agreed to return. The police moved them to a secure location where their phones were examined. What they found was disturbing chats, videos, and online material showing the extent of radical indoctrination. The Woman Who Lit the Spark, And the College Friendship That Enabled It The sisters descent into radicalisation began quietly in 2021 when the elder sister, Muskan (name changed), was pursuing her MPhil at Agras DEI College. There, she befriended a Kashmiri student named Saima, who slowly introduced her to Islamic practices sharing videos, gifting books on Islam, and encouraging her to wear the hijab. Muskan, once a regular temple-goer, began offering namaz at azaan and opposing rituals at home. Her familys concerns peaked when they confiscated her phone, but by then, she had already started using her younger sisters device inadvertently dragging her sibling into the same ideological vortex. Through Saima, the sisters connected with Ritu Banik, who had already converted and taken the name Mohammad Ibrahim. He ran Instagram pages that targeted young Hindu women with promises of safety, identity, and spiritual rebirth. It was Ibrahim who introduced them to Abdul Rehman and his underground network offering them a life free from oppression, police said. Abdul Rehman and a 200-Person Network with Global Ties Police investigations have revealed that Abdul Rehman Qureshi, formerly Mahendra Pal, is not just a lone preacher but the alleged kingpin of a sprawling conversion syndicate that has radicalised and converted over 200 individuals across India in recent years. His operations were not limited to Agra or Kolkata the network stretched across Delhi, Jaipur, Dehradun, West Bengal, and even as far as Goa. Among those arrested are Aysha, who was traced to a safehouse in Goa; Ritu Banik alias Mohammad Ibrahim, a key social media propagandist; and Osama, a handler who remains on the run. Digital evidence, including chats and propaganda material, suggests that one of the accused maintained contact with Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. The content accessed and shared among the group included AK-47 imagery, martyrdom glorification, and Islamic State-style messaging all signs that the sisters were not merely converts but being ideologically primed for possible terror deployment. A senior police official noted, Had they not been rescued in time, they may have been used for something much worse." This has prompted security agencies to reclassify the sisters not just as victims but potential recruits for future interrogation. With confirmed foreign funding, digital indoctrination platforms, and international collaborators involved, police have now invoked charges under the UAPA and organised crime sections of the IPC. A Red Corner Notice is being prepared for one Saud, a Canada-based suspect, as more arrests loom in what officials are now calling one of the largest coordinated religious conversion and radicalisation plots uncovered in recent times. From Shaheen Bagh to Phulat: The Shadow of Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui Abdul Rehman is believed to have taken over the operations after the 2021 arrest of Maulana Kaleem Siddiqui a prominent Islamic preacher who ran a powerful madrasa network from Phulat village in Uttar Pradesh. Siddiqui, whose institution once hosted high-profile guests like former CEC SY Quraishi and academic Anant Bhagwat, was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Allahabad High Court. His arrest left a leadership vacuum in the underground world of conversion syndicates, which, police believe, was quickly filled by Abdul Rehman. Under his leadership, operations shifted deeper into the digital realm with encrypted channels, fake identity recruitment, and cross-border funding becoming the norm. The Aftermath: Recovery, Rebuilding, and Red Flags The rescued sisters are now housed in a secure de-radicalisation facility. Their psychological state, officers say, is fragile but improving. The real challenge begins now not just legally but mentally," said an ATS official. They were deeply conditioned to reject family, nation, and everything they grew up with." Meanwhile, the UP Police and central agencies are expanding their net scanning call records, financial trails, and online groups that may have been used for indoctrination and recruitment. With links to terrorism, conversion mafias, and international propaganda confirmed, investigators say this is not the end its just the beginning. Following the arrest of Abdul Rehman, UP Police Commissioner Deepak Kumar announced in Lucknow that Rehman was identified based on confessions from earlier detainees. He confirmed Rehman was the 11th arrest in the inter-state conversion network and that police retrieved conversion-themed books and documents from his Delhi residence, including texts by Kaleem Siddiqui. The commissioner also revealed the networks reach: it operated across six states, allegedly converting over 200 individuals with backing from foreign sources, including the US, Canada, and Dubai. Legal actions under UPs anti-conversion law (BNS Sections 87, 111) and organised-crime provisions have been invoked. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At a press conference, Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna referred to the network as an inter-state love jihad racket, claiming it exploited emotional vulnerability through online radical content, facilitated conversions, and was funded via dark-web channels, echoing ISIS tactics. From a narrow bylane in Agra to a radical hideout 1,300 km away in Kolkata the journey of two sisters may have ended in rescue, but their case has blown the lid off a massive, well-oiled machinery of conversion, extremism, and international propaganda. The UP Police now says: Weve just scratched the surface." view comments First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:42 IST News india Conversion Mafia Busted: Inside UP Polices Operation In Kolkata To Rescue 'Agra Sisters' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Diplomat Of Nowhere: How One Man Turned A Ghaziabad Bungalow Into A Fake Embassy Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 15:42 IST Fake diplomatic plates, made-up passports, and an entire embassy for a country that doesnt exist inside the bizarre world of Baron Harsh Vardhan Jain UP Special Task Force have arrested Harsh Vardhan Jain, the 'baron' representing .Westarctica'. When the UP Special Task Force raided a plush bungalow in Ghaziabads Kavi Nagar this week, they didnt just bust a con. They walked straight into a theatre of the absurd, complete with national flags, high-end SUVs with diplomatic number plates, and Harsh Vardhan Jain, a man who claimed to be Indias official envoy to a country called Westarctica. Except Westarctica isnt a country. And Harsh Vardhan Jain is no diplomat. Recommended Stories Who Is Harsh Vardhan Jain? At 56, Jain has lived many lives, or at least claimed to. According to police, he introduced himself as the Ambassador of Westarctica", as well as the consul" of Seborga, Lodonia, and Poulvia all self-proclaimed micronations with no legal recognition. Jain posed as a Baron representing Westarctica, a micronation claiming territory in Antarctica, founded by a US Navy officer. While the nation" is not recognised by any government, Jain allegedly used its branding, fake titles, and ceremonial designations to build legitimacy in elite circles. In Ghaziabad, he rented a luxurious bungalow and operated it as Westarcticas so-called Consulate-General in New Delhi." The official Instagram handle of Westarctica even featured the property just days before the raid, claiming that Baron HV Jain" had been running the consulate since 2017 and regularly hosted charity events. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @westarctica.aq He drove high-end cars with fake diplomatic plates, handed out business cards and press credentials that looked official enough to pass casual scrutiny, and for a while, they did. Jain had an answer for everything, until someone asked real questions. What is Westarctica? Its not a real country. Not even close. Westarctica is a micronation established in 2001 by an American, Travis McHenry, who claimed a slice of uninhabited Antarctic territory. It has a website, a Grand Duke," and even a symbolic peerage system. But it is not recognised by the United Nations, the Indian government, or anyone with actual power. Jain used this fantasy to create his own. How He Pulled It Off: Titles, Props, And A Scripted Reality Jains Ghaziabad embassy" was convincing enough to fool more than a few people. The bungalow flew foreign flags. The cars bore plates marked DC" (Diplomatic Corps). There were official-looking documents on letterheads, fake IDs, forged seals, and even morphed photos with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former President APJ Abdul Kalam, and other big names. Officers say he used these to project legitimacy, lure people into business deals, and issue diplomatic appointments" to those willing to pay. Noida unit of UP STF busted an illegal embassy running in Ghaziabad and arrested Harsh Vardhan Jain, who was running an illegal West Arctic Embassy by taking a rented house in Kavinagar calling himself Consul/Ambassador of countries like West Arctica, Saborga, Poulvia, Lodonia pic.twitter.com/4xdFRi65DR ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 According to NDTV, Jain was also linked to shell firms that may have been used for hawala-like operations, offering job placements and foreign ties through his so-called embassies. What The Police Found The Special Task Force had been tracking Jain for weeks after receiving a tip-off. When they raided the property on July 22, they found enough to fuel an entire Netflix season: 4 luxury cars, including a Range Rover, Toyota Fortuner, and Skoda, fitted with fake diplomatic plates. 18 additional number plates, most bearing DC" or CD" tags used by real diplomats. 12 forged diplomatic passports from Westarctica and other non-existent nations. Rs 44.70 lakh in cash and multiple foreign currencies. 34 fake seals, two press cards, two PAN cards, and stacks of forged MEA letters, invitations, and nameplates. The NDTV report notes that many of the recovered documents carried seals and watermarks that mimicked official Indian ministries. His office" even had framed photographs of international visits and what appeared to be honorary credentials from fake foreign bodies. A History Of Shady Claims This wasnt Jains first run-in with the law. He was booked in 2011 for possessing an illegal satellite phone, a serious offence given national security concerns. According to reports, Jain once claimed he was close to controversial godman Chandraswami, and even boasted of ties to arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi. While some of this may be more self-fabrication, police say he has been building this persona for years, selling an illusion to unsuspecting victims, projecting himself as an elite global connector. He used the guise of diplomacy to influence businessmen, promise them access to international markets, and run a hawala network through shell companies," the police said in its statement to the press. How It All Fell Apart The UP STF had been tipped off by someone who grew suspicious of Jains credentials. A background check revealed no diplomatic accreditation, and certainly no listing of Westarctica" in MEA records. Surveillance confirmed the use of fake plates, and once the raid was approved, the pieces fell into place. He has now been booked under charges of forgery, impersonation, cheating, and criminal conspiracy, with the FIR registered at Kavi Nagar police station. Officials believe more people may be involved, especially in helping Jain produce documents, facilitate financial transactions, or spread the scam through social circles. Viral Fame, And Ridicule Since the bust, videos of Jains embassy" the luxury cars, the fancy flags, the fake seals have flooded social media. So have screenshots of his morphed images with global leaders. The internets response has been a mix of disbelief, sarcasm, and hilarity. Harsh Vardhan Jain ran a fake embassy! Thats enough internet for me today. Bloody hell. pic.twitter.com/SqHvxhUkQS Sayantan Bhaumik (@CEOBhaumik) July 23, 2025 Jain Sahab koi aur dukan khol lete, embassy ki dukan kholne ki kya jarurat thi. Soil and Salute (@RishiRahar) July 23, 2025 Harshvardhan Jain, posing as ambassador of Westarctica, with fake stamps, number plates.Nakli embassy bana Dali ye bhaisaheb ne. Indias got talent. pic.twitter.com/tIEUfCrznU Shining Star (@ShineHamesha) July 23, 2025 You mustve heard of people with a fake passport. Have you heard of anyone with a fake embassy?Meet His Excellency Harshvardhan Jain. https://t.co/wWRdk7kwZG Anomalist.Guru (@AnomalistG) July 23, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all To lure people in securing job overseas, Harshvardhan Jain used morphed pictures with world leaders and VIPs. Multiple high-end cars with diplomatic registration plates was also seized. pic.twitter.com/mrUZvHBf8K Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) July 23, 2025 While the internet laughs, the police are investigating a serious, sophisticated con that exploited digital gullibility and the enduring allure of power. For Harsh Vardhan Jain, the Baron of Westarctica, the show is finally over. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 15:33 IST News india Diplomat Of Nowhere: How One Man Turned A Ghaziabad Bungalow Into A Fake Embassy Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... ED Not A Supercop: Madras HC Slams Agency For Overreach, Quashes Rs 901 Crore Freeze Order Reported By : LawBeat Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:02 IST The court also rejected EDs reliance on alleged FEMA violations, saying such infractions dont automatically trigger PMLA provisions and can't be used as a 'backdoor' The bench clarified that even the filing of a chargesheet by the CBI does not automatically justify EDs entry unless it specifically establishes that proceeds of crime stem from a scheduled offence. In a sharp rebuke to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Madras High Court has quashed the agencys move to freeze Rs 901 crore in fixed deposits of RKM Powergen Private Limited, warning that the agency is not a super cop" empowered to investigate everything that comes to its notice. A division bench of Justices MS Ramesh and V Lakshminarayanan ruled that in the absence of a predicate offence, ie a scheduled offence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the ED has no jurisdiction to invoke its powers. Recommended Stories There must first be a scheduled criminal activity and proceeds arising from such activity. Only then does EDs mandate under PMLA begin, the bench clarified. The judgment comes as the latest twist in the long-running saga surrounding the contentious 2008 allocation of the Fatehpur East coal block, later cancelled by the Supreme Court in 2014 after it was revealed the block lay within a protected forest area. Although the CBI initially registered a case in 2014, it filed a closure report citing lack of evidence. However, a special court in 2017 ordered further investigation. Based on this, the ED had frozen RKMPs accounts in 2015, but that action was already struck down by the high court the same year. Despite the courts 2022 direction restraining further investigation under PMLA due to the absence of a predicate offence, the ED revived its probe after the CBI filed a supplementary chargesheet in 2023. That eventually led to the freezing of RKMPs fixed deposits in early 2025. Rejecting this fresh freeze, the high court found no new material or grounds to justify the EDs action. It pointed out that the agencys seizure memo merely parroted the statute without any application of mind. The court also rejected EDs reliance on alleged violations of FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act), saying such infractions dont automatically trigger PMLA provisions and cannot be used as a backdoor for initiating proceedings. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Importantly, the bench clarified that even the filing of a chargesheet by the CBI does not automatically justify EDs entry unless it specifically establishes that proceeds of crime stem from a scheduled offence. The court underscored the principle that without a predicate offence, the ED simply cannot act". Foreign investments made into RKMP, which ED previously questioned as potential round-tripping, were found to have been made transparently and with full disclosure to the RBI. About the Author Salil Tiwari Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:02 IST News india ED Not A Supercop: Madras HC Slams Agency For Overreach, Quashes Rs 901 Crore Freeze Order Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... How Harshvardhan Jain, Ambassador Of Westarctica, Became The Ultimate Con Star Of Ghaziabad Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:43 IST The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF), which arrested Harshvardhan Jain, said he was running a full-fledged fake consulate from his bungalow Harshvardhan Jain styled himself as a diplomat of fictitious nations. (News18) Who is Harshvardhan Jain? Until Tuesday, most people even in his own Ghaziabad neighbourhood barely knew. But now, the man who styled himself as a diplomat of fictitious nations and flaunted morphed photos with Indias most powerful leaders, stands exposed as the mastermind behind one of the most audacious cons in recent memory: a fake embassy of Westarctica operating from a rented home in Kavi Nagar. The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF), which arrested Jain on Tuesday, said he was running a full-fledged consulate" from his bungalow, complete with diplomatic number plates, forged Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) documents, fake passports of non-existent countries, and even bogus press credentials. Recommended Stories Jain claimed to be the consul or ambassador of Westarctica, Saborga, Poulvia, and Lodonia none of which are recognised as sovereign nations," said SSP Sushil Ghule, who led the STF raid. He used diplomatic insignias and paraphernalia to create an illusion of official legitimacy," he added. What was found in the raid? During the raid conducted by the STF at Harshvardhan Jains rented residence in Kavi Nagar, officers uncovered a stunning array of forged diplomatic paraphernalia and illegal assets. The team seized Rs 44.7 lakh in cash, along with foreign currency from several countries. Four high-end luxury vehicles were recovered, all bearing fake diplomatic number plates. In total, 18 such forged number plates were found. Additionally, the STF recovered 12 counterfeit diplomatic passports linked to various unrecognised micronations, including Westarctica and Saborga. The search also led to the discovery of forged documents bearing the seal of the MEA, 34 rubber stamps of foreign countries and reputed companies, two fake PAN cards, two bogus press credentials, and company records believed to be part of shell firms used in money laundering. According to officers, Jain had meticulously created the illusion of a legitimate diplomatic mission, complete with national flags, official-looking insignias, and even an office setup to mislead visitors and potential clients. How was illusion of Westarctica created? Jains most elaborate hoax was his association with Westarctica a self-declared micronation founded in 2001 by a former US Navy officer claiming a slice of unclaimed Antarctic land. Despite having no legal recognition, Westarctica maintains an online presence, and even its official Instagram handle had recently described Jain as Baron HV Jain," running the Consulate-General of Westarctica in New Delhi since 2017. He used that social media legitimacy as a shield," a senior STF officer said. Hed boast of charity events and diplomatic engagements, though none were real." What was Jains motive? Behind the theatrics was a more sinister racket. Jain allegedly promised overseas job placements and business opportunities in foreign countries. He took large sums from private individuals and companies, claiming to get them special diplomatic permissions or international licenses. He ran a broker network. People believed his promises because he looked the part from fancy cars to custom-made diplomatic suits," said ADG (Law & Order) Amitabh Yash. More troubling, Jain is suspected of running a hawala racket through a web of shell companies, some of which were used to move money under the guise of international development or investment. Jain has a shadowy past This isnt Jains first brush with the law. Back in 2011, he was arrested after an illegal satellite phone was recovered from him a serious offence under Indian law. That case, registered at the same Kavi Nagar police station, is still pending. Investigators also claim that Jain had previously been associated with controversial godman Chandraswami and international arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi, raising red flags about his past affiliations and the possible international links of his fraud. Whether or not he had actual links with these figures, the fact that he leveraged those names shows how calculated he was," said an STF official. What makes a real embassy? In light of the bust, police officials clarified what a legitimate embassy or consulate entails. A diplomatic mission is set up by a recognised government to represent its political, economic, and consular interests in another sovereign country," said ADG Yash. They issue visas, assist nationals, promote bilateral trade, and maintain international relations. Jains operation had no such authority." STF officials are now examining whether Jain had accomplices in India or abroad, and how many people he may have defrauded. Theyre also reviewing his digital footprint, especially social media handles that helped him project credibility. People assume what they see online is real Jain weaponised that assumption," said an officer involved in the probe. Has an FIR been lodged? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all An FIR has been lodged at the Kavi Nagar police station under sections related to forgery, impersonation, cheating, and violating the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act. Jain remains in custody, and investigations are ongoing. His so-called embassy may be gone," said an STF officer, but were still uncovering just how far this diplomatic fraud stretched." First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:17 IST News india How Harshvardhan Jain, Ambassador Of Westarctica, Became The Ultimate Con Star Of Ghaziabad Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has slammed Zanu-PF's affiliates, particularly the pro-party digital group Varakashi4ED, accusing them of fostering indiscipline, fueling factionalism, and undermining the party's ideological foundations.Charamba, who also serves as Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, made the remarks in a scathing statement this week, expressing deep concern over what he termed "growing indiscipline" within affiliate structures aligned with the ruling party."I was wistful about creating affiliates out of an affiliate," Charamba said, lamenting what he described as "loose management and fissiparous messaging" in the once-disciplined Varakashi4ED group. He said the current structure has allowed for a proliferation of unsanctioned voices that confuse Zanu-PF's messaging and unity.The Varakashi4ED was instrumental in mobilising online support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa during the 2023 general election. However, according to Charamba, the digital group has deviated from its original mandate and become a platform for infighting, personal ambition, and the promotion of individual agendas.His remarks come amid growing reports that several Zanu-PF affiliate groups have become factional battlegrounds, allegedly used by party members to campaign for preferred successors to Mnangagwa ahead of the 2028 elections. These platforms, critics say, are now being weaponised to curry favour with powerful factions instead of promoting the party's collective vision.Charamba specifically criticised the elevation of junior party members by affiliate platforms, arguing that all official communication must be led by the President."No subaltern pronounces policy or presents keynote addresses. Not even Vice-Presidents," he said, adding that loyalty to individual leaders other than Mnangagwa was eroding party cohesion. "There is quite some growing indiscipline in our messaging. That must stop forthwith."The presidential aide's statement follows mounting criticism of so-called zvigananda a group of wealthy elites within the party accused of using their financial clout to influence internal processes and secure leadership positions. Many within Varakashi4ED are reportedly aligned with this group, further deepening suspicions about its agenda.Political analysts have interpreted Charamba's comments as a direct intervention in the ongoing power struggles gripping Zanu-PF.Political analyst Pardon Taodzera said the remarks reveal nervousness within the highest echelons of the party."When you have different groups pledging loyalty to different leaders, it's a recipe for instability," Taodzera noted.Legal expert and academic Aaron Hamauswa said the evolution of Varakashi4ED mirrors the complex internal dynamics within the party."What began as a disciplined party defender has now developed its own power centres and internal contests," he said.Varakashi4ED is one of several affiliate groups that sprang up in support of Mnangagwa's political campaigns, alongside others like Young Women4ED, Mahwindi4ED, Boys DzaMudhara, and Vapositori4ED. These formations, while initially intended to broaden support, are increasingly seen as adding to the confusion and internal wrangling within Zanu-PF.Charamba's comments came a day after party national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa also raised concern about wealthy businessmen attempting to buy influence in the party using their money a development that further points to the internal pressure building around the issue of succession and factional loyalties.As Zanu-PF nears its elective congress in 2027 and the 2028 general elections, observers warn that unless the party reins in the growing influence of these affiliate groups, internal instability may deepen. Gujarat ATS Busts Terror Module, 4 Linked To Al-Qaeda In Indian Subcontinent Arrested Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 18:54 IST Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi said all four suspects were under surveillance for activities suspected to be connected to AQIS, a proscribed terror outfit affiliated with Al Qaeda The Gujarat ATS said the four accused are residents of Delhi, Ahmedabad, Modasa in Aravalli, and Noida in UP. (Image: ANI) The Gujarat Anti Terrorist Squad claimed to have busted a terror module with the arrest of four persons, with alleged links to Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent. According to officials, Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) is a banned terror outfit. Terror module affiliated with AQIS has been busted by the Gujarat ATS (Anti Terrorist Squad). Four persons linked to the proscribed terror outfit have been arrested," the ATS said in a statement. Recommended Stories The ATS identified the accused as Mohd Faiq from Delhi, Mohd Fardeen from Ahmedabad, Sefullah Kureshi from Modasa in Aravalli, and Zeeshan Ali from Noida in Uttar Pradesh. Confirming the arrests, Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi said all four suspects were under surveillance for activities suspected to be connected to AQIS, a proscribed terror outfit affiliated with Al Qaeda. Joshi said the operation was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs and coordinated surveillance. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In 2023, four Bangladeshi nationals were arrested from different parts of Ahmedabad for having links with the same terror outfit. (With agency inputs) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:54 IST News india Gujarat ATS Busts Terror Module, 4 Linked To Al-Qaeda In Indian Subcontinent Arrested Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Himanta Sarma Claims Assam's Muslim Population May Equal Hindus By 2041 | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 21:39 IST Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that it was not just opinion and cited census data to back his statement. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma quotes official data to highlight the rise in minority population in Assam. (IMAGE: PTI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday said the states Muslim population could reach parity with the Hindu population by 2041 if current demographic trends continue. Addressing a press conference following a cabinet meeting, Sarma referred to official figures from the 2011 Census, which showed that Muslims made up 34 per cent of Assams population. Of this, he said, 31 per cent were migrants who had settled in the state earlier." Recommended Stories This is not my opinion; these are the Census figures. As per the 2011 Census, Muslims account for 34 per cent of the population," Sarma said when asked whether indigenous Assamese Hindus could become a minority in the coming decades. Sarma on Monday had said that his state underwent major demographic changes compared to the 1951 demography of the state and said that Hindus will be a minority in Assam by 2041. VIDEO | Dibrugarh: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) says, Muslim population in Assam will be almost equal to Hindus by 2041 if the present growth continues"(Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/2D1IEnXZjT Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2025 If we see the Assams demography in 1951 and todays demography, it has reached at a stage that in next 10 years Assamese people will become minority here. Hindus will become minority in Assam in next 10 years. We must restore the community which is going to disappear, so that we are going to take a new resolution," Sarma said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He said that his government is committed to liberating every inch of Assams land from encroachment". Infiltration to Assam was started from 1930 and one Himanta Biswa Sarma cant change the 100 years old history, I cant solve the problem in just 4 years. After me, thousands will continue this responsibility. 100 years of faults cant be corrected by one Himanta Biswa Sarma. But we can sow the seeds of courage again in the community that is disappointed somewhere. Today illegal foreigners have been deported and land also recovered. Even in Dhubri like area our indigenous people have gotten back their rights," the Assam Chief Minister said, while speaking to ANI. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Guwahati [Gauhati], India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 19:27 IST News india Himanta Sarma Claims Assam's Muslim Population May Equal Hindus By 2041 | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Cabinet Approves India-UK Free Trade Deal, To Be Signed During PM Modi's Visit To London Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 07:08 IST India and the UK had announced the conclusion of negotiations for a free trade agreement in May to boost trade between the two countries to $120 billion by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his British counterpart Keir Starmer. (Reuters/File) The Cabinet on Tuesday approved the Free Trade Agreement between India and the United Kingdom, which will be signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to London on July 24, according to sources. PM Modi will embark on an official visit to the UK on Wednesday. The pact, officially called as Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, will be signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to London. The PM will be accompanied by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. Recommended Stories PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance. The text of the agreement is expected to be signed by the commerce ministers from both countries. We are working on the legal scrubbing and other last-minute work for the FTAThe UK is the sixth-largest investor in India, with cumulative investment of $36 billion. Interestingly, India is also a major investor in the UK, with nearly $20 billion in cumulative FDI," said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Tuesday. ALSO READ: India Sets Tone For PM Modis UK Visit: Fugitives, Khalistani Extremism Key Talking Points Highlights of India-UK Free Trade Deal One of Indias key demands, the double contribution convention pact, will ensure that professionals in either country are not forced to pay national insurance or social security contributions in both countries. According to the Union Commerce Ministry, it will exempt Indian employees on temporary work visas in the UK from making social security contributions for three years. This will lead to savings of around 20% of their salary and is expected to benefit more than 60,000 employees from the IT sector alone, it said. As per the agreement, India will reduce duty on UK whisky and gin from 150% to 75% and further to 40% in the 10th year of the deal. The tariffs on automotive products will go down from over 100% at present to 10%, subject to a quota. Further, India will gain from tariff elimination on about 99% of the tariff lines (or product categories) covering almost 100% of the trade value offering massive opportunities for an increase in the bilateral trade between India and the UK. Other goods with reduced import duties, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits. After the FTA is signed in the presence of both PMs, it will require approval from the British Parliament before coming into effect. However, the talks for the bilateral investment treaty (BIT) are still going on. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Indias exports to the UK rose by 12.6% to $14.5 billion, while imports grew by 2.3% to $8.6 billion in 2024-25. The bilateral trade between India and the UK increased to $21.34 billion in 2023-24 from $20.36 billion in 2022-23. (with PTI inputs) About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 06:55 IST News india Cabinet Approves India-UK Free Trade Deal, To Be Signed During PM Modi's Visit To London Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Delhi Weather Today: Intense Rain Batters Delhi-NCR, IMD Warns Of More Showers In Coming Days Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:53 IST Delhi-NCR saw another wet morning on Wednesday as heavy rain returned, disrupting traffic. According to the weather report today, IMD expects showers to continue through the week So far this July, Delhi has received 136.3 mm of rainfall, well short of the monthly normal of 209.7 mm. (Photo: PTI file) Delhi and parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to another wet morning on Wednesday, July 23, as heavy showers pounded the city for the second consecutive day, leading to widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions. Traffic jams were reported in several areas, including South Delhi, ITO, and the Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road. Recommended Stories The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the rain is likely to continue through the week. The city can expect generally cloudy skies along with very light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by occasional thunderstorms and lightning throughout the week. In a nowcast issued at 12:00 IST on Wednesday, the IMD said light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 3040 km/h, is likely across several parts of Delhi-NCR, including Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Dadri, Faridabad, Ballabhgarh, Loni Dehat, Indirapuram, Bahadurgarh, Gurugram, and Manesar. The forecast also mentioned the possibility of very light drizzle in some central and outer parts of Delhi over the next two hours. VIDEO | Rain lashes parts of Delhi. Visuals from Rakab Ganj.(Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/mPcBzXXmN8 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2025 The area near the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport also saw heavy rainfall, though flight operations remained normal, according to a public advisory issued by Delhi Airport authorities. The advisory noted that inclement weather conditions are expected as per the IMD forecast, but assured that on-ground teams are coordinating with all stakeholders to ensure smooth passenger movement. Travellers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. Meanwhile, Akasa Air issued its own travel advisory, urging passengers to plan for additional travel time and reach the airport well in advance to avoid last-minute delays. #TravelUpdate: Due to heavy rainfall in certain parts of Mumbai and Delhi, we anticipate slow moving traffic and congestion on roads leading to the airport.To ensure a seamless travel experience, we request you to plan for additional travel time to reach the airport well in Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) July 23, 2025 The short but intense spell of rain on Tuesday, July 22, had already led to severe waterlogging across key areas including Press Enclave Road, both carriageways of Anuvrat Marg near Qutub Minar metro station, and arterial stretches of MB Road near Sainik Farms, Saket Metro Station, Mathura Road near Ashram, Rohtak Road, Aurobindo Marg near IIT Delhi, and Najafgarh. Even stretches such as Lala Lajpat Rai Marg from Kalkaji, GT Karnal Road between Mukarba Chowk and Azadpur, and Guru Teg Bahadur Road saw waterlogging, although water drained within half an hour in some places, officials said. #WATCH | Delhi: Rain lashes parts of national capital.(Visuals from outside Indira Gandhi International Airport) pic.twitter.com/oC8RHM41vu ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 According to IMD data, Delhis base weather station at Safdarjung recorded 8.8 mm of rain between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm on Tuesday. Ridge in north Delhi saw the highest at 22.4 mm during the same period. Other areas reported the following rainfall: 22.2 mm at Rajghat, 14.2 mm at Lodhi Road, 13.5 mm in Pusa, 11 mm in Najafgarh, 1.5 mm in Ayanagar, and 0.5 mm in Palam. In the 24-hour period ending 8:30 am Wednesday, Ridge had logged a total of 64.8 mm. The maximum temperature on Tuesday was 32.6C at Safdarjung, which was 2.3 degrees below normal, while the minimum stood at 26C, a degree below normal. Relative humidity fluctuated between 83 and 100 per cent. Winds remained mostly calm with gusts reaching up to 30 km/h. So far this July, Delhi has received 136.3 mm of rainfallwell short of the monthly normal of 209.7 mm. The IMD classifies light" rainfall as up to 15.5 mm, moderate" as 15.6 to 64.4 mm, and heavy" as anything above 64.4 mm in 24 hours. While the capital has seen frequent rain spells this month, none have qualified as heavy" so far. Commuters bore the brunt of the disruptions. The downpour on Tuesday brought traffic to a crawl on major roads such as NH-8, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, ITO, and Lutyens Delhi. Parts of Janpath were waterlogged, with water entering roadside shops. Long traffic snarls were reported along the Mehrauli-Badarpur and Delhi-Ghaziabad corridors, with delays of over an hour in some places. From Nangloi to Najafgarh, traffic movement was severely affected. Social media was flooded with images and complaints of clogged roads and submerged footpaths. As rains triggered urban flooding, politics over Delhis civic management took centre stage. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Delhi government, calling the waterlogging a failure of the four-engine government". Just a 10-minute spell of rain on Tuesday brought Delhi to a standstill. Roads were flooded, traffic was paralysed, and chaos reigned everywheredespite BJP controlling all key agencies: NDMC, DDA, PWD, and MCD. When BJPs all four engines are junk, the vehicle doesnt move four times fasterit consumes four times the fuel and makes four times the noise," the AAP said in a statement. In response, Delhis urban development minister Ashish Sood hit back: Our CM goes from ITO to Barapullah to take corrective action. Their CM did not even come to Delhi secretariat. Their PWD minister went to jail for scams. Our PWD minister is working on-ground to tackle waterlogging. Is this waterlogging only due to our four-month-old government? We have been raising questions about the PWD scams by the previous government in desilting of drains. Waterlogging is a result of 10 years of corruption and neglect by the AAP government." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, the capitals air quality saw some respite thanks to the showers. According to the Centres Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the AQI stood at 88 (satisfactory) at 4 pm Tuesday, improving from 93 the previous day. The outlook suggests air quality will remain in the satisfactory" range till Friday, with a likely shift to moderate" thereafter. The IMD attributes the prevailing weather conditions to a monsoon trough currently hovering near the Himalayan foothills, which may keep the capitals skies overcast with on-and-off spells of rain for the rest of the week. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 09:32 IST News india Delhi Weather Today: Intense Rain Batters Delhi-NCR, IMD Warns Of More Showers In Coming Days Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Jilted Lover Kills Woman's Husband, Dumps Body In River After She Refused His Proposal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:03 IST The Navi Mumbai man would pressure her to marry him, the woman said in her police complaint. Navi Mumbai lover kills woman's husband In a shocking incident in Navi Mumbai, a disgruntled lover killed a womans husband, stuffed his body in a sack, and threw it in a river, the officials said. Aminur Ali Ahmed, 21, was arrested in connection with the incident. The married couple was identified as Fatima Mandal, 25, and Abubakar Suhadli Mandal, 35. Recommended Stories The couple lived in Navi Mumbais Vashi. According to the police, Aminur loved Fatima and had asked her to marry him time and again. When the husband did not return home from his office on Monday, the wife approached the police and filed a missing complaint. She also informed the police that Aminul had been forcing her to marry him. The police launched an investigation into the complaint and found that the husband had been killed by Aminul. The cops said that the accused stuffed the body in a sack and dumped it into a stream, and to destroy any evidence, he threw the clothes of the deceased in a drain. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Abubakars body was recovered from the creek on Wednesday. The police have arrested Aminul in connection with the murder and are searching for a friend whom the cops believe assisted him in the incident. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Location : Maharashtra, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 20:03 IST News india Jilted Lover Kills Woman's Husband, Dumps Body In River After She Refused His Proposal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'I Killed Her': MP Man Strangles Partner, Her Daughter; Scribbles Message On Wall With Lipstick Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:51 IST A man in Madhya Pradesh allegedly killed his partner and her 3-year-old daughter, sat beside their bodies overnight and wrote a message on the wall with lipstick. He was arrested. A representative image for the Madhya Pradesh Police (PTI) A man in Vidisha district in Madhya Pradesh was arrested after he allegedly killed his partner and her three-year-old daughter, then spent the entire night sitting next to their dead bodies, NDTV reported. He also scribbled a message on the wall using lipstick. The tragic incident happened in Ward Number 8 of Ganjbasoda and has left the local community stunned. Recommended Stories The accused, identified as Raja alias Anuj Vishwakarma, had been in a live-in relationship with 36-year-old Ramsakhi for a few months. Ramsakhi had separated from her husband before moving in with Anuj. The report quoted Anujs neighbours as saying that the couple used to argue often, but no one expected things to end in such a horrifying way. As the police arrived on the spot, they found a message on the wall, which read, I killed her she lied to me she had another relationship." According to the report, forensic experts confirmed the message was written shortly after the murders were committed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Commenting on the incident, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Prashant Chaubey told NDTV, The woman had been living apart from her husband and was staying with Anuj." Our investigation shows that both she and her child were strangled. The accused has been arrested and further inquiries are going on," he added. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:51 IST News india 'I Killed Her': MP Man Strangles Partner, Her Daughter; Scribbles Message On Wall With Lipstick Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:13 IST Mumbai Weather Forecast News, Rains Today Highlights: Mumbai woke up to heavy rain on Wednesday, with forecasts suggesting the wet spell will continue through the week. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for the city and adjoining districts for today, warning of heavy rainfall and gusty winds. The IMD had predicted generally cloudy skies with intermittent heavy showers for Mumbai and its suburbs. It had said wind speeds might reach 40-50 kmph in some areas. The weather also prompted some airlines to issue advisory for flyers. The rain also led to traffic snarls in several areas. The weather department has issued an orange alert for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall tomorrow. On Tuesday, the city recorded over 100 mm of rainfall for the second day in a row. The suburbs have received more than 200 mm of rain over the past 48 hours, easing the rainfall deficit that had built up earlier in the month. Between Monday and Tuesday morning, the Santacruz observatory recorded 108 mm of rain, while Colaba registered 40 mm. Here are the highlights: News18 Afternoon Digest: Updates On PM Modi's UK Visit, Vice President's Resignation & Other Top Stories Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:03 IST We are also covering: Indian student hospitalised after alleged racist attack in Australia; What happened to Tanushree Dutta? actress shocks fans with video. PM Modi will be in United Kingdom between July 23 and 24. (Pic: ANI) In todays News18 afternoon digest, we bring to you latest updates on Prime Minister Narendra Modis UK tour, Vice Presidents Jagdeep Dhankhar resignation and other stories. PM Modi Departs For UK, Free Trade Deal Likely To Be Signed During Visit Recommended Stories Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing key diplomatic and trade engagements. Read more Fake Westarctica Embassy Run By Ghaziabad Man Busted; Cars With Diplomatic Plates Seized The Noida unit of Uttar Pradeshs Special Task Force (STF) on Wednesday uncovered a fake embassy operating in Ghaziabad under the name Westarctica, a self-proclaimed micronation founded by a former US Navy officer but not recognised by any state. Read more How Dhankhars Unannounced Visit To President Murmu Left Rashtrapati Bhavan Staff Off-Guard In a move that left both the political establishment and the Rashtrapati Bhavan staff startled, former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar paid an unscheduled visit to President Droupadi Murmu shortly before announcing his sudden resignation. The visit, which took place without any prior notice, was seen as highly unusual for a leader of his stature. Read more Indian Student Hospitalised After Alleged Racist Attack In Adelaide: F**K off, Indian An Indian student, Charanpreet Singh, has been hospitalised after a violent and allegedly racially motivated attack in the heart of Adelaide, Australia. The shocking incident, reported by The Australia Today, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the safety of international students in the country. Read more What Happened To Tanushree Dutta? Actress Who Began #MeToo In Bollywood Shocks Fans With Video Tanushree Dutta is back in the headlines. A video of the Bollywood actress is all over social media in which she is seen crying inconsolably and claiming that she is being harassed". While the video has left netizens shocked and worried, do you know what has actually happened? Worry not, we have got you covered. Heres everything about the viral video of Tanushree Dutta you need to know: Read more top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India Women Create History, Become 2nd Team In The World After Australia To The Harmanpreet Kaur-led India have rounded off their tour of England by creating more history. On Wednesday, the tourists produced another impressive performance to beat their hosts by 13 runs in the third ODI and secure a series-winning 2-1 lead. Read more About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:03 IST News india News18 Afternoon Digest: Updates On PM Modi's UK Visit, Vice President's Resignation & Other Top Stories Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Not Your Fathers House': RJD MLA Triggers Chaos Amid SIR Debate In Bihar Assembly Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:30 IST RJD MLA's comment led the Speaker to adjourn the House, as tensions escalated between the ruling NDA and the Opposition during a heated debate over the SIR exercise. Ruckus in Bihar Assembly | ANI Image The third day of the Bihar Assemblys monsoon session descended into chaos after an RJD MLA, dressed in black to protest the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, remarked that the House doesnt belong to anyones father." RJD MLA Birendra Yadavs comment led the Speaker to adjourn the House, as tensions escalated between the ruling NDA and the Opposition during a heated debate over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Recommended Stories In response to the remark, Bihar Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav urged Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav to ask the RJD MLA to apologise for his statement. Earlier in the day, Grand Alliance members also staged a protest outside the main gate of the Bihar Assembly, raising slogans against both the State and Central governments. Yadav, who has been vocal against the electoral roll revision just ahead of the state assembly polls later this year, pointed out that the Supreme Court is hearing the matter. Yesterday, the Election Commission submitted an affidavit. Notably, there was no mention of illegal migrants being recorded in the voters list of the state," Yadav said, accusing the ruling camp of spreading a false narrative ahead of state polls. He also raised concerns over the Election Commissions decision to exclude Aadhaar, voter ID, and ration cards from the list of acceptable documents to verify voter eligibility. Meanwhile, Bihar BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal noted that the matter is sub judice before the Supreme Court and, therefore, refraining from making any comments would be appropriate. The matter is pending in the Supreme Court. The Election Commission is an independent constitutional body, and the Supreme Court is also looking into this matter. Till then, it is not right to give any statement on it," he said. The poll body submitted its affidavit in response to the Supreme Courts July 10 order, which had directed the Election Commission to submit its counter-affidavit by July 21. The case is scheduled for further hearing on July 28 before a vacation Bench comprising Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Joymalya Bagchi. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In its July 10 order, the Bench had declined to halt the electoral roll revision in Bihar and allowed the process to continue. It had also observed that, since the list of acceptable documents is not exhaustive, the Election Commission should consider including Aadhaar, the Electoral Photo Identity Card, and the ration card in the revision process. About the Author Ronit Singh Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be... Read More Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be... Read More Location : Bihar, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 12:30 IST News india 'Not Your Fathers House': RJD MLA Triggers Chaos Amid SIR Debate In Bihar Assembly Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Parliament Set To Discuss Operation Sindoor Next Week, PM Modi Likely To Intervene Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:54 IST Over the past week, Parliament has witnessed repeated sloganeering and disruptions, with the Opposition pressing for accountability and clarity on the governments response. The Monsoon Session of the Parliament was off to a stormy start. (PTI) A detailed discussion on Operation Sindoor has been scheduled in the Rajya Sabha on July 29, with 16 hours allotted for the debate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to intervene in the Operation Sindoor debate in both Houses of Parliament, according to sources. The motion to initiate the discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Rajya Sabha will be moved by BJP leader Shamik Bhattacharya. Recommended Stories The decision to allocate dedicated time was taken during a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) held earlier today. The move comes in response to persistent demands from the Opposition, which has been seeking a comprehensive discussion on both the Pahalgam incident and the governments Operation Sindoor, which followed the attack. Speaking about Centre agreeing to the Operation Sindoor debate in Parliament, Rahul Gandhi said: What will the Prime Minister say in Parliament? That Trump arranged the ceasefire? He cant say that, because the world knows its true. Trump has said it 25 times but who is Trump to interfere? Yet the PM doesnt respond. On one hand, the PM says we have won; on the other, he says Operation Sindoor is still ongoing." Gandhi added that no country supported India during the conflict. Responding to Rahuls remark, BJP leader Pradip Bhandari said: Rahul Gandhi doubts victory of our forces in Operation Sindoor! Pakistan should thank Rahul Gandhi for being more consistent in peddling Pakistani Narrative than Asim Munir." Over the past week, Parliament has witnessed repeated sloganeering and disruptions, with the Opposition pressing for accountability and clarity on the governments response. The upcoming debate is expected to be intense, with members from across party lines preparing to weigh in on the operation, its objectives, and its aftermath. On the other hand, the Business Advisory Committee has also allocated 16 hours for debate in Lok Sabha on Operation Sindoor. Opposition parties have been demanding the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the debate on Operation Sindoor. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Opposition has insisted that the two issues be addressed before the House takes up any other business. According to sources, the Treasury Benches noted during the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting that the Opposition had demanded the presence of both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the debate. Thats why the discussion has been scheduled for next week," a source said, reported Indian Express. The focus of the discussion will be Operation Sindoor, a high-precision military offensive carried out by Indian Army on May 7 in direct response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack. The operation involved coordinated strikes on terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:55 IST News india Parliament Set To Discuss Operation Sindoor Next Week, PM Modi Likely To Intervene Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Prominent Zimbabwean banker, academic and former Anglican bishop Dr Julius Tawona Makoni has lost ownership of his upscale Chisipite property in Harare following a long-running legal battle with his ex-wife, Pauline Mutsa Makoni.The mansion, situated at No. 5 Rietfontein Close in one of Harare's most affluent suburbs, was awarded to Pauline by the Supreme Court, overturning an earlier decision by the High Court in Harare which had blocked the enforcement of a divorce order granted by a British court.The couple, who married under Christian rites on 31 December 1983 in Harare and had two daughters, separated in October 2010 after nearly three decades of marriage. Pauline initiated divorce proceedings in England in June 2011, and a provisional order was granted in December 2013. A final divorce decree and property settlement followed in December 2014 in the High Court of Justice, Family Division, in London.Despite the English ruling awarding Pauline matrimonial property including the Chisipite mansion and another stand in Chishawasha Hills, Makoni challenged the enforceability of that judgement in Zimbabwe. He argued that the English court's decision contravened Zimbabwean public policy and lacked jurisdiction to deal with local assets.In March 2023, the High Court in Harare sided with Makoni, dismissing Pauline's application to register and enforce the English divorce order. The court also granted Makoni's earlier application declaring that the distribution of Zimbabwean property by a foreign court was inconsistent with local legal principles.However, Pauline appealed to the Supreme Court, which reversed the High Court ruling in October 2023. Justices Tendai Uchena and Alphas Chitakunye presided over the case, with Advocate Thabani Mpofu representing Pauline and Advocate Welshman Ncube appearing for Makoni.The Supreme Court ruled in Pauline's favour, allowing the English divorce order to be recognised and enforced in Zimbabwe. The court ordered Makoni to sign all necessary documents to transfer ownership of the Chisipite house and the Chishawasha Hills stand to Pauline within seven days. If he fails to comply, the Sheriff of the High Court is authorised to execute the transfers on his behalf. Makoni was also ordered to bear all associated transfer costs and legal fees for both applications.The judgement effectively ends a protracted transnational legal saga that played out over more than a decade in both Zimbabwean and British courts.Makoni, a former World Bank official and Bankers Trust executive, co-founded NMB Bank in Harare in 1994 and served as its CEO until 2004. He later moved to the UK, where he co-founded the London Trust Bank and became involved in several financial ventures. He also amassed a portfolio of high-end properties in London and served as Anglican Bishop of Manicaland from 2009.The couple's split became acrimonious after the discovery of Makoni's extramarital affair, which resulted in the birth of a son in 1996. Their legal proceedings were marked by high-profile legal representation and complex arguments over jurisdiction, public policy, and asset division across two continents.With this ruling, the Zimbabwean Supreme Court has reaffirmed the principle that foreign divorce orders involving matrimonial property can, under certain conditions, be enforced locallydelivering justice for Pauline and concluding one of the most high-profile divorce battles in Zimbabwe's recent legal history. 'Outstanding Thinker': PM Modi Pays Tributes To Lokmanya Tilak On 169th Birth Anniversary Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:16 IST Remembering Tilaks role in igniting the nationalist movement, the Prime Minister highlighted his belief in education and service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi | File Image: PTI Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak on his 169th birth anniversary, praising his courage and lasting contributions to Indias struggle for independence. Remembering Tilaks role in igniting the nationalist movement, the Prime Minister highlighted his belief in education and service. Recommended Stories Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of Indias freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others," PM Modi wrote on X. Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of Indias freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 23, 2025 Bal Gangadhar Tilak is remembered for promoting the concept of Swaraj, or self-rule, during British rule. A strong advocate of civil rights, he used journalism as a tool of resistance, founding the weeklies Kesari in Marathi and Mahratta in English. A scholar and philosopher, Tilak played a foundational role in shaping Indias early independence movement. He led the Indian Home Rule League after its formation in 1914 and co-signed the 1916 Lucknow Pact with Mohammed Ali Jinnah, which promoted Hindu-Muslim unity in the national movement. A scholar, lawyer, and journalist, Tilak played a pivotal role in awakening nationalist sentiments through his writings and public addresses. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all His iconic assertion"Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it"became a rallying cry that inspired countless Indians to join the freedom struggle. His deep connect with the people earned him the title Lokmanya," signifying the publics recognition of his leadership and vision. First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:15 IST News india 'Outstanding Thinker': PM Modi Pays Tributes To Lokmanya Tilak On 169th Birth Anniversary Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 15:20 IST Monsoon Session in Parliament Live: Both Houses have seen repeated disruptions in last two days. (PTI Image) Parliament Monsoon Session News Today Highlights: Both Houses were adjourned till Thursday after continuous slogans were being raised by opposition members over Bihars Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise and Operation Sindoor on the third day of the Parliament Monsoon Session 2025. The Oppositions protests demanding discussions on Pahalgam and Operation Sindoor have led to the adjournment of both houses. The INDIA bloc leaders have also protested against Bihars SIR issue outside the Parliament on Wednesday. Meanwhile, a detailed discussion on Operation Sindoor has been scheduled in the Rajya Sabha on July 29, with 16 hours allotted for the debate, according to sources. The decision to allocate dedicated time was taken during a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) held earlier today The parliamentary proceedings are also being held under the abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the position of Vice President on Monday, citing health reasons. Dhankhars move prompted a wave of speculation on his exit and successor in the second-highest office of the country. This monsoon session will span from July 21 to August 21, encompassing 21 sittings over 32 days. Both Houses of Parliament will be adjourned from August 12 to August 17 to facilitate Independence Day celebrations, and will reconvene on August 18. Follow Highlights Here: 'Punished For Going Digital': Panic In Karnataka As GST Notices Worth Lakhs Haunt Small Traders Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:37 IST From milk booths to vegetable vendors and tea stalls, shopkeepers are switching to cash-only payments overnight due to fear of GST scrutiny Across Bengaluru, signs have started popping up: No UPI, Only Cash". (AI-generated image) Across Karnataka, small traders and workers are increasingly on the edge as a wave of GST notices reaches even the most modest businesses. These GST notices will we also get one? My friend who is a flower seller got one. He doesnt even have the money to pay it. We work on daily wages, will they come and tax us too?" an auto driver asked News18, voicing a fear that now grips thousands of small traders and workers in the state. Recommended Stories The commercial tax department has been issuing the notices to small businessesbakeries, flower shops, kirana stores, tea stallswith some demands running into lakhs and even crores. When explained that the notices were only for those above a particular slab, the auto driver frowned and asked: I hope theyre not doing this to fund the bhagyas [guarantees] Were barely able to make ends meet." His suspicion echoed the sentiment of many who have seen the notices land at their doors, asking them to pay money to the government based on digital transactions alone. Across Bengaluru, signs have started popping up: No UPI, Only Cash." From milk booths to vegetable vendors and tea stalls, shopkeepers are switching to cash-only payments overnight due to fear of GST scrutiny. The Karnataka Karmika Parishath (KKP), a group representing unregistered small traders, has planned a state-wide protest on July 25, demanding immediate withdrawal of the notices. Under president Ravi Shetty Byndur, they have announced a complete shop bandh on July 25, calling the move arbitrary and illegal. They allege the department has sent retrospective notices for four years, even to those exempt from GST, using UPI data that doesnt reflect business income accurately. Bakery owners, condiment storekeeperseveryones got notices. They are threatening to stop the sale of essential goods like milk," said a protestor. UPI records, they claim, include personal and non-commercial payments too. The department was asleep since 2017. Now theyre waking up and asking for dues," said Shetty. Kirana store owner Pradeep, who earns just under Rs 14 lakh a year, received a notice claiming he owed Rs 65 lakh in GST. They said theyd check if its a mistake, but until then, I cant sleep. I have rent to pay, loans to clear, and my home to run," he told News18. Officers told him the demand was based on UPI trail data. Another official said he had no option but to pay because the transactions were all digitally recorded. We work hard and honestly, and now we are being punished for going digital," he added. If that wasnt enough, reports emerged of a small-time vegetable seller from Haveri, Shankargouda Hadimani, who runs a cart near the Municipal High School grounds and had received a GST notice for Rs 29 lakh. His alleged total digital transactions over four years were Rs 1.63 crore, most of it through UPI. He had no idea what to do, and the case has gone viral. The issue has spiralled but not without the blame-game, with the Congress and the BJP at each others throats. In the middle of the political slugfest are thousands of small traders, hawkers, and vendorsmany of whom are now locking up their UPI scanners, switching off their QR codes, and wondering how much their digital transactions and transparency are going to cost them next. Karnatakas deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said the GST problem lies with the BJP government at the Centre. The Centre fixed the Rs 40 lakh limit. Our GST offices issued notices to over 14,000 tradersincluding vegetable, flower, and tender coconut vendors. The BJP must withdraw these notices. Rahul Gandhi always opposed GST in this form. The Centre is pressuring states to collect it. Karnataka contributes one of the highest shares to the GST pool, but we dont want small businesses to suffer," he said. We have asked for more funds from the Centre for two years, but BJP MPs dont speak for Karnataka. For every Rs 100 we give, we get just Rs 13 back," he added. But the BJP has hit right back, saying the Congress was misleading the people of the state. Union minister for food, public distribution and consumer affairs Pralhad Joshi said the notices were issued by the state and not the Centre. It is Karnatakas own commercial tax department that issued these. The state government is pretending to be innocent to avoid blame. If this was a central move, it wouldve happened in other states too. Why only Karnataka?" he asked. Chief minister Siddaramaiah, who holds the finance portfolio, said he will take up the matter in the next GST Council meeting in Delhi. He instructed the commercial tax department to reach out to affected traders and said that misinformation was being spread. A top official of the department said the notices are not final tax demands and that they are only asking traders to share transaction details. The Congress government in Karnataka, having blamed the BJP-led Centre for the tax mess, has launched its own version of the Know GST campaign, a state-wide outreach programme to create awareness. The first workshop was held in Koramangala, Bengaluru, where officials said GST registration is mandatory for businesses with annual turnover exceeding Rs 40 lakh for goods and Rs 20 lakh for services. They claimed they had tracked 14,000 traders using UPI data and sent notices to those crossing thresholds. The department insisted the communications were not final tax demands but a step to verify transactions and register eligible traders. The traders, however, are furiousnot just at the size of the tax demands, but also at being asked to pay arrears for four years without warning. With traders stopping QR payments and shifting to cash, digital transactions across the city have taken a hit. BJP state president BY Vijayendra alleged that Siddaramaiah was using the GST dues to fill coffers and fund guarantee schemes. The state is cracking down on small traders and forcing them to cough up old dues with penalties. Theyre being pushed to the brink," he said. The department issued a statement on July 11 claiming that 98,915 taxpayers are registered under the composition scheme. Traders earning less than Rs 1.5 crore a year can opt for the scheme and pay just 1 per cent GST (0.5 per cent SGST and 0.5 per cent CGST). However, the department added that this scheme doesnt apply to unregistered turnover. They also cited Section 22 of the GST Act, 2017, which mandates GST registration for anyone exceeding the threshold, regardless of payment modecash, UPI, or otherwise. They reiterated that applicable taxes would be recovered from any trader who has received consideration beyond the limits. A helpline (1800 425 6300) has been set up for complaints, and workshops will expand state-wide. But many traders claim the notices clearly demand tax arrears from 202122 onwards, with amounts nearing Rs 40 lakh in some cases. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Byndur, however, dismissed the governments claim and said officials were threatening traders with penalties going back to 202122. He accused the government of trying to divide traders with this campaign just days ahead of the strike. Former chief minister and Haveri Lok Sabha MP Basavaraj Bommai said the move showed the states desperation. The state treasury is under stress due to shortfalls in the first quarter. These harsh steps have been ordered from the top," he said. About the Author Rohini Swamy Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18s digital platform. She has previously worked with t... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:37 IST News india 'Punished For Going Digital': Panic In Karnataka As GST Notices Worth Lakhs Haunt Small Traders Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Rajasthan Horror: Man 'Sacrifices' 5-Year-Old Nephew In Bizarre Bid To 'Control' Estranged Wife Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:55 IST Manoj Prajapat went to a tantrik to bring back his wife, who had fought with him and left his house. The tantrik told him to sacrifice his nephew and bring his blood. The man sought help from a tantrik to bring back his estranged wife. (Representative Image) In a horrifying incident from Rajasthan, a man sought the advice of a tantrik" and allegedly decided to sacrifice his five-year-old nephew to control" and bring back his estranged wife, who left him and went to live with her parents. The man, identified as Manoj Prajapat from Sarai Kalan village, was reportedly advised by a tantrik to sacrifice his nephew, bring his blood and Rs 12,000 for a ritual at midnight on Saturday (June 19). Recommended Stories Mahaveer Singh, SHO of Mundawar police station in Rajasthans Khairthal-Tijara district, said the tantrik, 38-year-old Sunil, told a desperate Prajapat that Goddess Kali demanded a sacrifice to bring back his estranged wife. Tu tere bhatije ki bali de (Sacrifice your nephew)," police quoted Sunil telling Prajapat as reported by The Indian Express. Prajapat then planned to abduct and kill the five-year-old son identified as Lokesh of his wifes sister to complete the ritual. His wife left for her parents home after repeated quarrels between them, where she opposed his addiction to intoxication, among other things, according to SHO Singh. Prajapat allegedly strangled the child to death on Saturday. The childs family, panicking after his disappearance, informed the local police. After an intensive search, police found the body near an abandoned house near the childs home. Lokesh was found dead and hidden in a haystack inside the abandoned house. Manoj allegedly took Lokesh to a dilapidated building on the pretext of buying him toffees. Police said Prajapat extracted the childs blood through injections, as per Sunils demands, and wanted to control and bring back his estranged wife through the ritual. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Initially, Manoj allegedly tried to mislead the police by staying at the crime scene and pretending to be concerned. However, the cops grew suspicious of Prajapat as he was the last person seen with the child and was also allegedly attempting to mislead the investigation. After interrogation, Prajapat confessed to the police about his actions and his motive behind the gruesome murder, and was promptly arrested on Monday. Sunil was arrested the next day. It is a heinous case. Their mind gets possessed while doing such acts," SHO Singh told The Indian Express. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Khairthal, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 12:55 IST News india Rajasthan Horror: Man 'Sacrifices' 5-Year-Old Nephew In Bizarre Bid To 'Control' Estranged Wife Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... SC Cancels Bail Of Woman Superintendent Accused Of Sexual Exploitation Of Patna Protection Home Inmates Reported By : LawBeat Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 02:47 IST The top court has said that the gravity of the allegations and procedural lapses in the bail process warranted intervention under Article 136 of the Constitution The appellant-victim contended that the accused deliberately used her official position to exploit women inmates and facilitated their abuse by powerful outsiders. File pic/PTI The Supreme Court on July 21 set aside a Patna High Court order granting bail to Vandana Gupta, a former superintendent of a protection home in Bihars Patna, accused of sexually exploiting women inmates, many of whom belonged to Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe communities. A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta held that the nature of the allegations and the surrounding circumstances made it imperative to cancel the bail and direct the accused to surrender within four weeks. The bench observed that the allegations against the accused were grave and, if established, reflected a gross misuse of public office. It was alleged that during her tenure as superintendent of the Uttar Raksha Grih in Gaighat, Patna, Gupta administered intoxicating substances to female inmates, subjected them to sexual exploitation and mental torture, and orchestrated their trafficking to influential individuals under the pretext of protection. Recommended Stories The court held that the release of the accused on bail could seriously undermine the trial process by posing a threat to key witnesses. It said that the conduct attributed to the accused was not only a betrayal of the institutional trust placed in her but also a possible obstruction to justice, especially considering her reinstatement to a similar position in another protection home following her release. The court was also critical of the procedural irregularity committed by the High Court in granting bail without compliance with Section 15A(3) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. This provision mandates that notice be issued to the victim before deciding a bail application in cases involving offences under the SC/ST Act. The bench held that the appellant-victim had not been made a party in the High Court proceedings, thereby denying her the right to be heard. Referring to the precedent laid down in Shabeen Ahmad v State of Uttar Pradesh & Anr (2025), the Supreme Court reiterated that cryptic bail orders, especially in serious matters involving abuse of power and violation of fundamental rights, cannot be allowed to stand. The bench stated that granting bail without assigning proper reasons in such cases not only offends judicial discipline but also has the potential to affect public confidence in the administration of justice. The bench emphasised that while cancellation of bail is not to be exercised routinely, it is justified where the nature of allegations shakes the conscience of the court and the liberty of the accused poses a threat to the integrity of the trial. The court observed that the nature of offences, coupled with the accuseds reinstatement, indicated her influence within the administrative structure, raising concerns about witness tampering and fair trial. The FIR in the case was registered in 2022 following the intervention of the Patna High Court, which had taken suo motu cognisance based on a media report highlighting the ordeal of the inmates. The investigation was also monitored by the High Court. The appellant-victim contended that the accused deliberately used her official position to exploit women inmates and facilitated their abuse by powerful outsiders. According to statements recorded under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, several women disclosed being sent out of the institution for non-consensual sexual acts and, in case of resistance, were drugged and assaulted within the premises. Further allegations pointed to unidentified men gaining access to the home and exploiting the inmates in collusion with the staff. After securing bail, Gupta was reportedly given charge of another protection home, a decision which the court noted demonstrated administrative complicity. While the State supported the victims plea, the standing counsel was unable to justify the governments action in reinstating the accused despite pending charges of serious misconduct and criminal offences. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In defence, Guptas counsel argued that she had spent nearly 500 days in custody since her arrest on August 27, 2022, and that a detailed evaluation of evidence at the bail stage could prejudice the pending trial. The court, however, dismissed these arguments, holding that the gravity of the allegations and the procedural flaws in the HCs order required urgent correction. Accordingly, the Supreme Court exercised its extraordinary jurisdiction under Article 136 of the Constitution to quash the High Courts bail order dated January 18, 2024. It also directed that adequate protection and support be extended to all victims involved in the case by the trial court and local administration. About the Author Sanya Talwar Sanya Talwar, Editor at Lawbeat, has been heading the organisation since its inception. After practising in courts for over four years, she discovered her affinity for legal journalism. She has worked previousl... Read More Sanya Talwar, Editor at Lawbeat, has been heading the organisation since its inception. After practising in courts for over four years, she discovered her affinity for legal journalism. She has worked previousl... Read More First Published: July 24, 2025, 02:47 IST News india SC Cancels Bail Of Woman Superintendent Accused Of Sexual Exploitation Of Patna Protection Home Inmates Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Shubhanshu Shukla Learns To Walk Again After Spending 18 Days In Space | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:46 IST Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, one of four astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission, launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 25. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla | Image: Instagram Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who returned from space on July 15 after nearly three weeks aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is now undergoing recovery and physical readjustment on Earth. Shukla, one of four astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission, launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 25. After spending nearly 20 days in microgravity, he and the team splashed down safely off the coast of California. Recommended Stories In a video shared on Instagram, Shukla is seen relearning how to walk, supported by two individuals as he takes slow, deliberate steps. I have received many messages wishing me a speedy recovery. I want to thank everyone and give a quick update," he wrote in the post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shubhanshu Shukla (@gagan.shux) He explained that during space travel, the body undergoes several physiological changes due to the absence of gravity, such as fluid shifts, changes in heart rate and balance, and muscle loss. Now, back on Earth, he said, the body has to adapt again. Though the rate of recovery varies for each astronaut, I was amazed at how quickly the human body begins to readjust," he noted. In the pursuit of the unknown (space), you get to know more about yourself." According to Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Shukla and the other three astronauts will remain in quarantine until July 23. The period will include medical monitoring and support to aid their re-adaptation. Minister Singh, in an interview with PTI, said Shuklas mission has provided India with valuable practical insights as it prepares for its human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. It has added to Indias capabilities and positioned us more strongly for future international space collaborations," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all During their stay aboard the ISS, Shukla and his crewmates conducted over 60 scientific experiments and outreach activities. Shukla is only the second Indian to travel to space, after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew in 1984. First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:46 IST News india Shubhanshu Shukla Learns To Walk Again After Spending 18 Days In Space | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Six Gelatin Sticks, Detonators Found Inside Bag Near Bengaluru Bus Stop Toilet, Probe On Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:27 IST The Kalasipalya Police Station, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, has launched an investigation into the matter The area was quickly cordoned off and a bomb disposal squad was rushed to the site. (Image via X) Panic gripped the busy Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand on Wednesday after an unattended carry bag containing six gelatin sticks and detonators was found outside a public toilet on the premises. The area was quickly cordoned off and a bomb disposal squad was rushed to the site. The suspicious bag was discovered around 2 pm, prompting immediate action from the police. According to officials, the explosive materials were kept separately inside the bag, raising alarm about a possible security threat. Recommended Stories Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), S. Girish, confirmed the incident and said, Six Gelatin sticks and some detonators (both separately)were found in a carry bag outside the toilet in Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand. FIR is yet to be registered." Bengaluru, Karnataka: Six gelatin sticks and several detonators were found in a carry bag placed outside the toilet at Kalasipalyam BMTC bus stand. Authorities are investigating the incident pic.twitter.com/GbmHkv8eHb IANS (@ians_india) July 23, 2025 The bag was spotted by passersby, who alerted local authorities. The Kalasipalya Police Station, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, has launched an investigation into the matter. DCP Girish visited the location and is personally monitoring the probe. While the materials have been safely removed, their source and intent remain unknown at this point. Officials said the investigation is still in its early stages, and more details will be shared once the contents are thoroughly examined and surrounding CCTV footage is reviewed. Kalasipalya is one of Bengalurus most crowded and communally sensitive areas, and the discovery of explosives has raised serious concerns among both residents and security agencies. The bus stand sees hundreds of commuters daily, making it a high-risk zone in such situations. This incident comes after a series of bomb scare last week when over 40 private schools in Bengaluru received threatening emails about possible explosives on their campuses, leading to evacuations, panic among parents, and temporary school closures in areas like Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Kengeri. While those threats were later declared hoaxes, the back-to-back incidents have put city authorities on alert. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Police have appealed to the public to stay calm and report any suspicious items or activity in crowded areas. The investigation into the Kalasipalya case is ongoing. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:41 IST News india Six Gelatin Sticks, Detonators Found Inside Bag Near Bengaluru Bus Stop Toilet, Probe On Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Small Vendors, Big Bills: Blame Game Begins As Vegetable Sellers, Milkmen Fear Hefty GST Burden Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:57 IST The Karnataka government blamed the Centres order in 2019 in the gazette to all governments regarding what should be done for those with a turnover of up to Rs 40 lakh Small traders and vendors are worst-hit by the GST notices. (PTI Image for Representation) A wave of distress is sweeping across Karnatakas small-time vendors and traders as Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices, demanding lakhs of rupees, continue to be issued based on digital transactions. The latest to be hit are a milk vendor in Bengaluru and a vegetable vendor in Haveri, both reeling from colossal GST demands, prompting the Karnataka government to shift blame squarely onto the Union government. Ravi, a milk vendor operating from Mariyammana Palya in Bengaluru, has been hit with a staggering Rs 23 lakh GST notice. This comes despite his reported turnover of Rs 59 lakh last year, with the notice specifically targeting transactions conducted within that period. Recommended Stories A bewildered Ravi expressed his dismay, stating: I am a milk vendor, how can I respond to a GST notice? I sell milk in the morning and then deposit it in the bank. They have sent a notice for Rs 1.03 crore in transactions on PhonePe and PayTM. How can I pay GST for this? They ask for 18%. They have sent the notice on WhatsApp and through a letter." Similarly, in Haveri, Shankargouda Hadimani, who runs Sairam Farm Fresh" as a vegetable vendor, has been slapped with a Rs 29 lakh GST demand. The department issued the notice via WhatsApp, citing over Rs 1 crore in digital transactions through Google Pay and PhonePe over the past four years. This has left Shankargouda in deep distress, especially as he primarily deals in fresh vegetables, which are largely GST-exempt. I have been in the vegetable and fruit business since 2021. When I first tried to get a GST number, I was told that vegetables and fruits dont require a GST number, and I could just continue my business as is. So, I obtained a municipal license, a vegetable license, and a fruit license, and started my business. Its been four years now, and Ive already done business worth Rs 1.63 crore. Now, Ive received a notice saying I need to pay a tax of Rs 29.63 lakh for that Rs 1.63 crore. How am I supposed to pay Rs 29 lakh? We are small vendors dealing in vegetables and fruits. If they ask us to pay Rs 29 lakh, where do we get it from? This is causing us a lot of trouble. I urge the authorities concerned and the government to resolve this issue. If they help us, we can continue our business smoothly. Otherwise, we will have to remove all UPI scanners and only deal in cash. This will also result in losses for me because my business will be reduced by half, leading to further difficulties." The Karnataka government has been quick to react, with deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar pointing fingers at the central government. The government of India has already issued an order in 2019 in the gazette to all governments regarding what should be done for those with a turnover of up to Rs 40 lakh. Why is BJP just watching this? This is their work. They should immediately withdraw this trouble caused to the poor," he said. Shivakumar also revealed the extent of the issue, stating, Already, the first notice has gone to 14,000 people. You all have noticed that Rahul Gandhi had already expressed his protest regarding this. The chief minister will call the officers and give whatever guidance is needed." Industries minister MB Patil echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the broad scope of GST. Now GST has been imposed on everything. Have they left out even bakeries from GST? So, there is confusion about that today. They will fix it today. They have put GST on bakeries and everything else, have they left anyone out? Have they left out even puffed rice? Whatever is packed, everything comes under it. Milk packets also come under it. Everything that is packed will come under GST. We are saying that the Union government is taking responsibility of all GST," Patil explained. However, former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai accused the state government of shying away from its responsibility in the matter. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In the context of accepting payments like UPI, they have given notices. I had said that the chief minister should intervene. I saw the chief minister giving a statement that it is a central tax and concerns them. The chief minister is shying away from his responsibility. GST decisions are not taken by the Union government alone. The central and state governments, all the states together, take decisions in the GST Council. Since the chief minister is also the finance minister, I once again urge him to do this work," he said. In response to the growing concern, Siddaramaiah is scheduled to hold a crucial meeting on Wednesday with GST and commercial taxes officials to discuss the ongoing issue of notices being sent to small traders and vendors across the state. For now, the outcome of this meeting is eagerly awaited by the beleaguered small business community in Karnataka. About the Author Harish Upadhya Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi... Read More Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 12:57 IST News india Small Vendors, Big Bills: Blame Game Begins As Vegetable Sellers, Milkmen Fear Hefty GST Burden Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Spoiled Rich Kids: Chhattisgarh HC Pulls Up State Govt, Police Over Highway Blockage For Reels Reported By : LawBeat Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:32 IST Taking suo motu cognisance of the event, the court directed the chief secretary of the state government to file his personal affidavit in the matter The issue relates to a viral video that surfaced on social media, showing six high-end Toyota Fortuner SUVs parked across the Ratanpur National Highway, their occupants filming stunt reels with bright lights and professional videographers. (Representational Image) The Chhattisgarh High Court has come down heavily on the state police for what it termed a disappointing" and lenient response to an incident where a group of affluent youths turned a national highway into a stunt set for social media content. Taking suo motu cognisance of the event, a division bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru directed the chief secretary of the state government to file his personal affidavit in the matter. Recommended Stories The issue relates to a viral video that surfaced on social media, showing six high-end Toyota Fortuner SUVs parked across the Ratanpur National Highway, their occupants filming stunt reels with bright lights and professional videographers. The incident, which was widely reported in the Hindi daily Haribhoomi on July 20, caused a traffic jam and inconvenience to commuters. One of the reels was reportedly posted by Vedant Sharma, son of influential figure Vinay Sharma. Despite the clear disruption and road safety hazards, police reportedly imposed only a Rs 2,000 fine per vehicle, without registering any case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Motor Vehicles Act, or the National Highways Act. The court found this response insufficient, particularly in light of the social status of the offenders. Time and again, mischief on public roads is committed not just by the uneducated but also by those from well-to-do and educated backgrounds. The indifference of the police, especially when the accused are privileged, sends a dangerous message," the bench remarked, calling out the authorities failure to take stern action". The court also recalled a similar recent episode involving the wife of a deputy superintendent of police, which it had taken seriously and flagged for top-level review. In this latest case, the judges noted that the police neither seized the vehicles nor acted under appropriate penal laws, despite clear grounds to do so. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Commenting on the apparent reluctance to act against spoiled rich kids," the court warned that such helplessness on the part of the police could foster lawlessness. The case will now be heard next on August 7. About the Author Salil Tiwari Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More Salil Tiwari, Senior Special Correspondent at Lawbeat, reports on the Allahabad High Court and courts in Uttar Pradesh, however, she also writes on important cases of national importance and public interests fr... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 20:32 IST News india Spoiled Rich Kids: Chhattisgarh HC Pulls Up State Govt, Police Over Highway Blockage For Reels Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Temples, Tourism, Tribute: Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Village Bateshwar Set For Grand Makeover Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 16:41 IST UP government has approved a Rs 27 crore project aimed at revitalising this culturally rich but lesser-known destination in the Agra district. The UP government aims to put Bateshwar firmly on Indias religious tourism map. (Image: UP Tourism) Bateshwar, a tranquil village located along the Yamuna River in Agra and known as the ancestral home of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is about to undergo a significant transformation. In an effort to promote spiritual tourism and honour Vajpayees legacy, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved a Rs 27 crore project aimed at revitalising this culturally rich but lesser-known destination in the Agra district. Officials noted that Bateshwar, often overshadowed by the global allure of the Taj Mahal, is home to a rare chain of 101 ancient Shiva temples that line the Yamuna River. Constructed in the traditional Nagara architectural style during the Pratihara dynasty, these temples are both sacred and architecturally significant. The governments objective is to establish Bateshwar as a notable destination on Indias religious tourism map. Recommended Stories The Bateshwar Blueprint Tourism department officials revealed that the Rs 27 crore package will be allocated to various components to improve spiritual infrastructure, ease access for pilgrims, and enhance civic amenities. Of the total allocation, Rs 19 crore will be dedicated to renovating the ghats, stretching from the revered Gopaleshwar Mahadev Temple to the cultural complex on the riverfront. The upgrades will include beautification, strengthening of embankments, safe access steps, aesthetic lighting, and viewing decks. The ghats are the heart of religious activity here, especially during the annual Bateshwar Fair. This facelift will make pilgrimages safer and more enriching," said Ashutosh Kumar, Assistant Director, Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department. To give Bateshwar a distinguished entry, two imposing gateways will be constructedone on the Firozabad Road and the other along the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. Designed to reflect the local cultural ethos and traditional temple motifs, these entrances will cost Rs 5 crore in total. Additionally, Rs 1 crore has been earmarked for installing modern eco-tourism signage in the Rapri region, which borders the National Chambal Sanctuary. These signages will not only aid navigation but also introduce visitors to the regions diverse heritage spiritual, natural, and historical," Kumar added. Basic infrastructure improvements worth Rs 2 crore will cover internal roads, street lighting, sanitation, and parking areas. Our aim is to make Bateshwar clean, accessible, and welcoming for all," he said. A Big Move for Locals For the residents of Bateshwar, the announcement has brought a wave of excitement and hope. This is the biggest thing to happen to our village in years," said Rajendra Vajpayee, a distant relative of the former PM who still resides in the original Vajpayee family home. Atalji never forgot Bateshwar, and now the state is remembering him through this project. It feels like justice to his memory," he added. Shopkeeper Shivam Tiwari, whose small stall sells puja items near the ghats, believes the changes will attract more visitors and improve livelihoods. During the annual fair, lakhs come, but for the rest of the year, its quiet. With new roads, lighting, and signs, even off-season tourism will improve," he said. Schoolteacher Manorama Mishra, who also runs a local heritage club for students, hopes the plan will also preserve the ecological sanctity of the area. The Yamuna here is still relatively clean. Its not like what you see in cities. If development is done sensitively, it can become a model of eco-spiritual tourism," she said. What Does the Tourism Minister Say? Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh stated that the project is part of a broader initiative to decentralise tourism in Uttar Pradesh and bring attention to lesser-known spiritual and cultural sites. Agra is synonymous with the Taj Mahal globally, but there is so much more in this region. Bateshwar, with its temple heritage and its connection to one of Indias tallest leaders, deserves prominence," said Singh. He mentioned that new tourism circuits are being developed, which include Kannauj, Braj, and now Bateshwar, aimed at empowering local communities and preserving cultural traditions. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Officials noted that the new travel circuit aims to attract not only domestic pilgrims but also international tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences beyond mainstream destinations. The UP Tourism department indicated that work on the project is expected to begin later this year, once detailed tenders and conservation plans are finalised. The district administration has already initiated preliminary surveys, and coordination with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is underway for work near protected monuments. As Bateshwar prepares to welcome a new wave of pilgrims and tourists, residents are hopeful that the transformation will not only boost their economy but also reaffirm the cultural and spiritual identity of a village closely tied to one of Indias most beloved leaders. Bateshwar has waited long for its due. Maybe now, under the light of these 101 temples and Ataljis legacy, our time has come," said 78-year-old Ram Dayal Dubey, a retired school principal and lifelong devotee at the ghats. First Published: July 23, 2025, 16:41 IST News india Temples, Tourism, Tribute: Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Village Bateshwar Set For Grand Makeover Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter The Zimbabwean government says it is prepared to deploy aircraft to combat the spread of quelea birds as part of urgent efforts to safeguard the country's winter wheat crop, which has now entered its critical reproductive phase.Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said heightened surveillance and control measures were already underway following sightings of quelea bird roosting sites in several parts of the country."Roosting sites are beginning to manifest and, over the weekend, we had sightings in Matabeleland North's Mary Ellen area, as well as in Plumtree," Prof Jiri said in an update issued this week.The quelea bird, often described as Africa's most destructive avian pest, poses a serious threat to grain crops, particularly wheat. The government has responded with intensified eradication campaigns, with more than 6,000 birds controlled in Goromonzi and over 40,000 neutralised in Chiredzi in recent days."This calls for us to expedite and increase surveillance and control," said Jiri, stressing that more aggressive measures would be deployed if necessary.He outlined Zimbabwe's preparedness to face the avian threat, highlighting that government had mobilised substantial resources for the campaign. These include 45 mist blowers, four vehicle-mounted sprayers, nine drones and a nationwide network of agriculture extension officers."Our extension officers were recently equipped with vehicles by President Mnangagwa. It's all systems go in terms of quelea control. We are ready and do not want to lose any of our wheat grain," Prof Jiri said."If necessary, aircraft will be deployed to ensure we reach quelea roosting sites as quickly as possible."The mobilisation comes at a critical moment for the agricultural sector. Zimbabwe is on course for a record winter wheat harvest, having surpassed its 120,000-hectare planting target for the 2025 season. As of mid-June, over 122,142 hectares of wheat had been planted, setting the stage for what authorities hope will be a bumper crop.The government has also encouraged farmers and local communities to report any sightings of the migratory birds so that swift action can be taken.With wheat now maturing in fields across the country, officials say decisive action in the coming weeks will be key to ensuring food security and protecting national grain reserves from the destructive pest. Trump Repeats 'Jets Downed' Claim, Says India-Pakistan Conflict Could've Gone Nuclear Curated By : Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:30 IST Trump, who has repeatedly said that he stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan through trade, again said that five jets were shot down during the fighting. US President Donald Trump (Reuters Image) Once again on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump was back with his claims that he stopped the war" between India and Pakistan. Reiterating his trade warning during the India-Pakistan hostilities, the US President again stated that five jets were shot down in May when tensions escalated between the two nuclear-powered countries. He also claimed that the conflict between India and Pakistan was probably going to end up in a nuclear war". Recommended Stories We have stopped wars between India and Pakistan. They were probably going to end up in a nuclear war. They shot down five planes in the last attack. It was back and forth, back and forth. I called them and I said no more trade if you do this. They are both powerful nuclear nations," Trump said, adding, Who knows where that would have ended up, and I stopped it" #WATCH | US President Donald Trump says, We have stopped wars between India and Pakistan. They were probably going to end up in a nuclear war. They shot down five planes in the last attack. It was back and forth, back and forth. I called them and I said no more trade if you do pic.twitter.com/r5BRaO11aF ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Since May, Trump has time and again taken credit for mediating the India and Pakistan war. While Pakistan gave him credit for his mediation, India has outrightly rejected the claims. Last week as well, the US President stated that around 4-5 jets were shot down during the India-Pakistan hostilities following the Pahalgam terror activity. However, the US President has not specified whether the jets belonged to India or Pakistan. Stopped More Conflicts In addition to India-Pakistan war, Trump claimed the US took out Irans entire nuclear capability and also stopped the conflict between Kosovo and Serbia. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all And a couple of others that we didnt stop a war, but we stopped what probably could have ended up in a war. We do that on the House as compliment of America. Okay, do you think (former US President Joe) Biden would do that? I dont think so. Do you think he ever heard of any of those countries? I dont think so," Trump said. About the Author Mahima Joshi Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 23, 2025, 09:35 IST News india Trump Repeats 'Jets Downed' Claim, Says India-Pakistan Conflict Could've Gone Nuclear Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What A Joke: Bengaluru CEO Rejects Boston Brahmin Analogy After Coldplay Kiss Cam Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 12:58 IST The term Boston Brahmin', which was meant to satirically evoke old-world privilege, has now drawn fire from caste-conscious discourse online. Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot were seen snuggling as the "kiss cam" zoomed in on them. (Photo: Instagram) Bengaluru CEO and writer Anuradha Tiwari, who previously stirred debate over her post on Brahmin genes," has now pushed back against the online chatter linking the Coldplay concert controversy to Brahmins, calling the connection bizarre. That Coldplay concert controversy has bizarrely been linked to Brahmins. What a joke! Didnt even know Boston Brahmins was a real term until I watched this video." Recommended Stories She also opened the ground for debate, asking: What do you all think?" That Coldplay concert controversy has bizarrely been linked to Brahmins. What a joke!Didnt even know Boston Brahmins was a real term until I watched this video. What do you all think? pic.twitter.com/AonGnOlIaZ Anuradha Tiwari (@talk2anuradha) July 22, 2025 Her tweet has sparked further discussion online, with many users expressing confusion over the term Boston Brahmin", which, despite its name, has no direct connection to Indian caste structures. The term resurfaced after media reports identified Kristin Cabot, the woman involved in the Coldplay kiss cam controversy, as part of the prominent Cabot family, historically associated with Bostons upper elite. According to several media reports, Kristin Cabot is married to Andrew Cabot, a descendant of one of the so-called First Families of Boston." The Cabots are considered part of the Boston Brahmins, a social class term coined in the 1860s by writer and physician Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. He used the phrase to describe the refined, wealthy, and influential Anglo-American families of Boston, likening their aristocratic stature to that of Hindu Brahmins in Indiaparticularly in terms of lineage, philanthropy, and cultural authority. Kristin and Andrew Cabots family legacy includes major business interests in shipping, carbon black manufacturing, and the historic Privateer Rum distillery, which Andrew now runs as its sixth-generation owner. Ironically, the term Boston Brahmin, which was meant to satirically evoke old-world privilege, has now unintentionally drawn fire from caste-conscious discourse online. How Did X Users React? The renewed spotlight on the term Boston Brahmin drew a wide range of reactions on social media, with many users expressing confusion, sarcasm, or historical insight. Abhinay Pandey, an X user, wrote: Never heard of a Boston Brahmin before and probably its not even a real thing. But the Brahmin-hate is so strong these days that even a CEOs affair gets blamed on them. " On the other hand, Amit Schandillia clarified the legitimacy of the phrase and said: Boston Brahmin is indeed a term. And quite a flattering one at that. Read up, youll love it." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Swayam Tiwari also weighed in, adding historical context. He said: Boston Brahmins were the wealthiest and most influential Americans in New England. The Rockefellers, etc., were all Boston Brahmins. So called because they were the direct descendants of the first English settlers." The thread of responses reflected a growing curiosity, and occasional confusion, among X users. About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 12:58 IST News india What A Joke: Bengaluru CEO Rejects Boston Brahmin Analogy After Coldplay Kiss Cam Row Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'What Is The Hurry': SC On Maharashtra's Early Listing Request For 7/11 Mumbai Blasts Plea Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 21:38 IST This is the second urgent request for an early listing of its plea against the Bombay HC acquittal verdict, that the Maharashtra government has made since yesterday The matter came up before the SC bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi. (Image: PTI/File) The Supreme Court on Wednesday questioned Maharashtras urgent request for an early listing of its appeal against the Bombay High Court verdict acquitting all 12 accused in the 2006 Mumbai trains blasts case. Also known as 7/11 in reference to the date July 11 it took place, it was one of the deadliest terror attacks in Mumbai that claimed 189 lives. A series of seven bomb blasts spanning over 11 minutes targeted the suburban railway, which is the citys lifeline. Recommended Stories This is the second request after Tuesday (July 22) that the Maharashtra government has made for early listing of its plea. The matter came up before the Supreme Court bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi. The Supreme Court observed that stay on acquittal is granted only in the rarest of rare cases", to which solicitor general Tushar Mehta representing the state government said it is indeed rarest of rare". See, what is the hurry? Eight are already released. Stay of acquittal is granted only in the rarest of rare cases," the bench observed, as per a report in Bar and Bench. The counsel replied: Perhaps we can convince your Lordships that this is indeed the rarest of rare." After Mehta sought an urgent hearing, the SC agreed to hear the plea on July 24. The state government rushed to the court a day after the Bombay HC acquitted all the 12 accused on July 21 (Monday). In its verdict, it said the prosecution utterly failed to prove the case against them and it was hard to believe" that they had committed the crime. In doing so, however, the high court set aside a September 2015 judgment of the MCOCA court that had imposed the death penalty on five of the 12 accused and had sentenced the remaining seven to life; one of the death-row convicts died in 2021. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all WHAT DOES THE GOVT APPEAL SAY? The state government, in its appeal, has raised several serious objections to the HCs acquittal order, highlighting that the recovery of RDX from an accused was disbelieved on a hyper-technical ground" that the seized explosives were not sealed. It has stated that due procedural safeguards under Section 23(2) of Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) were observed, including proper sanctioning by senior officers like prosecution witness (PW) no 185 Anami Roy. The plea said the HC overlooked the validity of these approvals despite no substantial contradiction in the prosecutions evidence. It has disputed the HCs dismissal of the confession of an accused for lacking minute details, such as the date of arrival of the Pakistani co-conspirators in India, the description of the six Pakistanis and information like whether they had trained in terrorist camps. The appeal further challenges the HCs disregard of the recovery of detonators and explosive granules from another accused, pointing out that these items cannot be easily procured or planted, and their evidentiary value should not have been dismissed over technicalities. It has stated that the HC failed to address the validity of the convictions under various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or UAPA, and relevant provisions of the Explosive Substances Act. The plea has also stated that the HC ignored key findings and legal interpretations from previous landmark judgments. It has addressed the defences contention that the accused did not meet the definition of continuing unlawful activity" under the MCOCA due to earlier offences being punishable by less than three years. Citing SC precedents, it added that the conspiracy and scale of the attack clearly fall under MCOCA provisions. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 21:38 IST News india 'What Is The Hurry': SC On Maharashtra's Early Listing Request For 7/11 Mumbai Blasts Plea Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Won't Go For Tax Recovery: Karnataka CM After Vendors Get GST Notices For UPI Transactions Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:14 IST Karnataka vendors had called for boycott of UPI transactions and announced a protest on July 25. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reacted to the development. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reacts to GST notices to vendors (PTI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday clarified that the state government would not recover taxes from street vendors selling exempted goods and services. This comes after a section of small and micro traders across the state objected to receiving GST notices linked to their UPI transactions. Several traders associations appealed to these businesses to boycott the UPI transactions and announced a statewide strike on July 25. Recommended Stories Siddaramaiah said that the traders have agreed to drop the protest that was called on July 25. Even if notices have been issued, we wont go for tax recovery. Traders have agreed to drop the protest called on 25th. We have asked for compulsory registration," the Chief Minister said. Small vendors and traders across the state raised serious concerns after getting GST notices from the commercial tax department for UPI-based transactions that exceeded Rs 40 lakh annually. They had urged the government to revoke these notices and demanded a relaxation in the enforcement of these rules for small-scale vendors. Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra earlier accused the Karnataka Commercial Tax Department of issuing GST notices to small and micro traders on the basis of revenue targets allegedly set by the Chief Minister. He urged the government to withdraw them. He also extended the BJPs support to the protest called by the traders across the state. The Commercial Tax Department issuing GST notices to small and micro traders has sparked widespread concern. These traders are deeply worried, while the chief minister and his ministers are attempting to shift the blame on the Centre," Vijayendra said. He also pointed out Siddaramaiahs earlier public statement that Karnataka must surpass Maharashtra to become number one in GST collection". The BJP leader said that the Chief Minister had set revenue targets for officials. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At a time when the state coffers are empty, the CM is pressuring tax officials to issue recovery notices. I urge the chief minister to immediately halt the issuance of these notices to small and micro traders and to withdraw those already served," he said. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:08 IST News india Won't Go For Tax Recovery: Karnataka CM After Vendors Get GST Notices For UPI Transactions Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bridal Reimagined: Why The Modern Indian Bride Is Saying Yes To Lab-Grown Sparkle Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:52 IST Lab-grown diamonds account for nearly 20% of the global diamond market and have overtaken mined stones in over half of U.S. engagement rings, as per market data Labgrown diamonds: Where once bridal jewellery was mostly about preserving family legacy, today its about reflecting personal identity Bridal jewellery has long been the crown jewel of Indian weddings, a gleaming symbol of heritage, family pride, and tradition passed down through generations. But today, a quiet revolution is underway. The modern Indian bride is no longer just wearing whats expected of her; shes curating her bridal story on her own terms. And at the heart of this transformation is a growing shift toward lab-grown diamonds brilliant, ethical, affordable, and deeply personal. As Indian weddings evolve from being tradition-bound spectacles to intentional, personalised celebrations, lab-grown diamonds are emerging as the stone of choice for a new kind of bride, one who values not just sparkle, but substance. Recommended Stories Todays brides are no longer simply inheriting tradition, theyre rewriting it," says Rupesh Jain, Co-Founder of Lucira, a homegrown lab-grown diamond jewellery brand leading this conscious-luxury shift. Lab-grown diamonds are leading the change as conscious, personal, and beautifully modern choices." A Global Trend with Local Momentum What was once a niche choice has now become a global phenomenon. Lab-grown diamonds account for nearly 20% of the global diamond market and have overtaken mined stones in over half of U.S. engagement rings, as per market data. In India too, the demand is rising, particularly among millennials and Gen Z couples looking to combine aesthetics with ethics. The idea of luxury has expanded," says Jain. For modern brides, its not just about carats and cost, its about clarity of conscience. Transparency, ethical sourcing, and environmental responsibility now matter just as much as the traditional Four Cs." This value shift is also deeply practical. With lab-grown diamonds priced up to 80% lower than mined diamonds of similar size and quality, couples are choosing to redirect wedding budgets toward experiences and investments such as dream honeymoons, new homes, or even long-term financial goals. The Personal Touch: Design Freedom and Customisation The appeal of lab-grown diamonds goes beyond price and sustainability, its also about unparalleled creative freedom. Without the limitations of sourcing, lab-grown diamonds offer endless possibilities in terms of design, cuts, and scale, allowing brides to be more expressive with their jewellery. Without the supply and pricing constraints of mined diamonds, brides are free to explore bespoke creations that feel personal and deeply expressive," Jain adds. At Lucira, that freedom is at the heart of every design." Vidita Kochar Jain, Co-founder of Jewelbox, echoes the sentiment and notes a surge in demand for customised, meaningful designs among Indian brides. Weddings have always been rooted in tradition," she says, but the modern bride is making space for jewellery that aligns with her individual style and values. Its not just about sparkle, its about self-expression, meaning, and intention." She shares an example, Recently, a bride commissioned a one-carat diamond cut in the shape of the letter A for her mangalsutra. Thats the kind of emotional storytelling and innovation thats easily possible with lab-grown jewellery." From Heirlooms to Identity: Reframing Bridal Jewellery Where once bridal jewellery was mostly about preserving family legacy, today its about reflecting personal identity. Brides are no longer content with one-size-fits-all sets dictated by tradition or family elders. They want jewellery that feels authentic, versatile, and aligned with who they are from engagement rings and wedding-day chokers to post-wedding trousseau pieces. Were witnessing a new kind of bridal expression conscious, confident, and contemporary," says Kochar Jain. And the appeal goes beyond aesthetics. Its also about the peace of mind that comes from knowing your jewellery is ethically sourced without compromising on quality or brilliance." At Jewelbox, brides are now choosing lab-grown diamonds not just for the engagement ring, but across the entire wedding look blending heirloom-inspired motifs with modern silhouettes and bold, fashion-forward cuts. Beyond the Big Day: Diamonds That Grow With You Another reason lab-grown diamonds are resonating with brides today is their versatility. Theyre not just made for the wedding album theyre made to be worn, styled, and lived in, long after the festivities are over. Whether its a statement solitaire worn to a work event or a delicate pendant styled with everyday outfits, lab-grown diamond jewellery easily bridges the gap between bridal and beyond. The question isnt whether lab-grown is the future," says Rupesh Jain. Its how you want to wear it." Conscious Is the New Classic In a culture where weddings are deeply tied to tradition and symbolism, lab-grown diamonds are giving Indian brides the chance to reclaim tradition on their own terms, keeping the sparkle, but infusing it with meaning, mindfulness, and individuality. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all For todays bride," says Vidita Kochar Jain, its not just about looking beautiful on her wedding day, its about making beautiful choices that reflect who she truly is." As sustainability, ethics, and storytelling become central to how we define luxury, lab-grown diamonds are no longer just an alternative." They are the new classic one that tells a story not just of love, but of intention and empowerment. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:52 IST News lifestyle Bridal Reimagined: Why The Modern Indian Bride Is Saying Yes To Lab-Grown Sparkle National Broadcasting Day 2025: Indias Radio Journey, Policies And Milestones Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 07:20 IST National Broadcasting Day marks the legacy of Indian radio, from IBC to Akashvani, and the evolution of broadcasting policies shaping Indias public communication landscape. National Broadcasting Day is celebrated annually on July 23. (AI generated image) National Broadcasting Day commemorates the evolution of the broadcasting landscape in India, highlighting the impact of broadcast services in the nations development and outreach since the establishment of the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) on July 23, 1927. The IBCs birth marks the start of organised radio broadcasting in the country, which is now celebrated as the annual National Broadcasting Day. National Broadcasting Day 2025: History and Significance Recommended Stories Four years after Indias radio journey began in June 1923 with the first transmission of the Radio Club of Bombay, the Indian Broadcasting Company was launched on July 23, 1927. IBC began organised radio broadcasting in India, paving the way for the All India Radios emergence in 1936. As India gained independence, the AIR expanded its wings across the country, adopting the name of Akashvani in 1956. The AIR strongly reflects the evolution of Indias state broadcasting services, operating across 591 stations and reaching 98% of Indias population, while offering its broadcasts in 23 languages and 146 dialects. During Indias independence struggle, the radio services acted as an influential tool in disseminating information, raising awareness and forging unity among the citizens. After India awoke to the light of freedom, the radio broadcast helped promote literacy, health awareness and agricultural knowledge, among other necessary information. Key Milestones In Indias Broadcasting Journey 1923 First radio broadcast by Radio Club of Bombay 1927 Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) established now celebrated as National Broadcasting Day 1930 Commencement of Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) 1936 Indian State Broadcasting Service became All India Radio (AIR) 1939 External Service started with Pushtu broadcast 1947 At Independence, AIR had six radio stations in India 1956 AIR officially renamed Akashvani 1957 Vividh Bharati Service launched 1969 Yuv-Vani service started from Delhi 1977 First FM Service inaugurated from Madras 1988 Introduction of National Channel 1997 Prasar Bharati Corporation came into existence 2000 Community Radio Stations commissioned in North-East India 2004 DTH Service of AIR & Doordarshan inaugurated 2006 Uplinking of DTH channels increased from 12 to 20 2011 FM Gold started 24-hour service 2012 Bangladesh recognizes Akashvani for its contribution in the Bangladesh Liberation War 2013 AIRs FM Rainbow celebrated its 20th anniversary 2014 AIR launched a new mobile app for live streaming of stations 2015 PM Modis Mann Ki Baat gained popularity on AIR 2016 AIR launched AIR News 247, a continuous news coverage service 2017 AIR launched a YouTube channel to reach a global audience 2018 AIR launched service on Amazon Alexa 2019 AIR revamped programming to include more youth-oriented content 2020 AIR played a key role in disseminating COVID-19 information 202123 Special programs on Independence Day, Republic Day, G20, etc. 2024 AIR introduced AI-based interactive services for listeners Source: PIB Broadcasting Policies In India Since its inception in the pre-independence days, the broadcasting policies in India have gone through a significant evolution, transforming from a strictly government-controlled functioning to a more liberalised and democratic framework. The policies have undergone necessary changes, based on Indias growth in various aspects as a country. They also uphold the right to freedom of speech and expression in the Indian Constitution. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The governments radio and television broadcasting has maintained a balance of public interest, national security and the demand for diversified content. Even today, as the landscape evolves fast through the digital age, Indias broadcasting landscape and its policies are expected to keep up with it. Source: PIB About the Author Lifestyle Desk Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi... Read More Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, relationshi... Read More fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:20 IST News lifestyle National Broadcasting Day 2025: Indias Radio Journey, Policies And Milestones Indians Can Now Travel Easier (And Smarter): The Most Exciting Visa Updates of 2025 Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:45 IST From visa-free getaways to remote work opportunities, new 2025 visa policies are opening exciting doors for Indian travellers across the globe. Passport ready? 2025 brings big visa wins for Indian travellersfrom digital nomad visas to visa-free island escapes. International travel just got a whole lot easier for Indian passport holders, thanks to several major updates in visa policies worldwide. From visa-free access to streamlined processing and new digital nomad opportunities, here are the key changes you need to know before planning your next getaway: 1. Remote Work Now Allowed on New Zealand Visitor Visa Recommended Stories Starting January 27, 2025, New Zealand has updated its visitor visa rules to permit remote work for up to 90 days during a stay of up to six months. This means if youre employed by a foreign company, you can work remotely while primarily enjoying New Zealand as a tourist. 2. South Africa Launches Express Visa via Tour Operators South Africa has introduced the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), allowing accredited tour operators to submit group visa applications directly. This move reduces the processing time to just three working days, offering a smoother experience for Indian group travellers. 3. Palau Grants Visa-Free Entry for Indians The island nation of Palau now offers Indian citizens visa-free access for short visits of up to 30 days. Although there are no direct flights from India, convenient connections through cities like Singapore, Manila, Seoul, and Taipei make it a reachable paradise for Indian tourists. 4. The Philippines Offers Dual Options for Visa-Free Travel The Philippines now grants visa-free entry to Indian nationals under two new provisions. Indians can visit for up to 14 days visa-free for tourism. Moreover, if you hold a valid visa or permanent residency from countries like the US, Japan, or within the Schengen zone, youre eligible for a 30-day visa-free stay. 5. US to Add USD 250 Visa Integrity Fee Indian travellers heading to the US should brace for increased costs. A new USD 250 (approximately 21,600) visa integrity fee" will apply to most nonimmigrant visas, including student and work categories. This will raise the total application fee to around USD 473 (roughly 41,000). The implementation date is expected to be around October 1, 2025. 6. US Student Visa Applicants Face Social Media Scrutiny Indian students applying for US visas will now be subject to mandatory social media disclosure. All handles and usernames used in the past five years must be declared, and applicants must keep their profiles public. Deactivating accounts or deleting posts just before applying may raise red flags. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 7. Slovenia to Welcome Indian Digital Nomads Slovenia is set to roll out its digital nomad visa on November 21, 2025. Indian remote workers employed by foreign companies can live in Slovenia for up to a year, with the option to bring their family. However, the visa is non-renewable, and a six-month break outside Slovenia will be required to reapply. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl... Read More fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. First Published: July 23, 2025, 08:45 IST News lifestyle travel Indians Can Now Travel Easier (And Smarter): The Most Exciting Visa Updates of 2025 Ved Vyas Temple: The Secret Stop Every True Shiva Devotee Must Visit Curated By : Translation Desk-Local18 Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:29 IST The ancient Ved Vyas Mahadev Temple in UP's Sahupuri holds a unique belief that sage Ved Vyas once cursed Kashi Vishwanath and began penance here, vowing to create a new Kashi Ved Vyas Temple in Mughalsarai houses a unique 'Vyas Shivling', with no Nandi statue outside. (Local18) The ancient Maharishi Ved Vyas Temple, also known as the Ved Vyas Mahadev Temple, is located in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh. This sacred site holds a distinct spiritual identity and deep-rooted beliefs associated with the sage Maharishi Ved Vyas. According to legend, after the Mahabharata war ended, Maharishi Ved Vyas arrived in Kashi (Varanasi) and sought blessings from Lord Vishwanath. However, he received no response from the deity. Disheartened and hurt, the sage sat in silence, fasting for several days. In his anguish, he cursed Kashi Vishwanath, declaring that worship at the temple would bear no fruit for devotees. Recommended Stories Following this, Ved Vyas moved to Sundarban in the Sahupuri region and began intense penance, vowing to establish a new spiritual centre, Vyas Kashi. Meanwhile, Lord Vishwanath, awakened from his samadhi, realised what had happened and sent Goddess Annapurna to soothe the sages anger. Disguised, the goddess arrived with 56 varieties of offerings. But Ved Vyas, sensing the divine presence, returned the food. To free his father from the burden of the curse, Lord Ganesha undertook rigorous penance. Eventually, Ved Vyass anger subsided, and the curse on Lord Vishwanath was lifted. As a result, Lord Ganesha was entrusted with assisting in the composition of the Mahabharata. Since then, a tradition of offering food to Maharishi Ved Vyas has continued at the temple. Temple priest Satya Prakash Tiwari told Local18 that the temple houses a unique Vyas Shivling with no Nandi statue outside, a rare feature in Shiva temples. It is also believed that ones pilgrimage to Kashi Vishwanath remains incomplete without visiting the Ved Vyas Temple. The temple sees a surge of devotees every Monday during the holy month of Shravan. Pilgrims arrive from various states including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Special Rudrabhishek rituals are also performed here during Sawan. A key highlight of this sacred site is that no devotee leaves hungry or thirsty. Lakhs of pilgrims visit daily, and the belief is strong that visiting the temple relieves all troubles. Ved Vyas himself is said to have established the temple, and his samadhi (final resting place) is located here. Devotees describe the experience as deeply spiritual. Santosh Jaiswal shared with Local18 that one feels a sense of peace upon entering the temple. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all I dont ask for anything, yet Mahadev fulfils all my wishes," said Lata Jaiswal, another devotee. Vikas Gupta added, This is a very old and divine temple built by Maharishi Ved Vyas himself. Just one visit can rid you of your problems." The Ved Vyas Temple continues to be a revered pilgrimage site where faith, myth, and divine grace come together to create a powerful spiritual experience. fashion, travel, News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Mughalsarai, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:29 IST News lifestyle Ved Vyas Temple: The Secret Stop Every True Shiva Devotee Must Visit Pawan Kalyan Breaks Silence On Quitting Films For Politics: Wont Act But Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:57 IST Pawan Kalyan, Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, prioritises administration over acting. He plans to finish pending films and focus on producing. Pawan Kalyan reveals if he is quitting politics. Actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan has clarified his future in cinema following his appointment as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in June 2024. Amid ongoing criticism over juggling his administrative responsibilities with film commitments, the Jana Sena Party chief has now addressed concerns and revealed where his priorities lie. In an interview with ABN, Kalyan said that although he attempted to complete his pending films before the elections, unforeseen political developments delayed the process. When I signed these three films, I had planned to complete them before the elections. However, I lost crucial time before the elections due to some political incidents," he explained. I asked the producers of all three films to forgive me because I needed a few more days to complete the films. Even after I came into power, I took time to shoot for films and only did it for two hours a day." Recommended Stories Kalyan is currently wrapping up work on three major films: Hari Hara Veera Mallu, They Call Him OG, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh. He confirmed that he has not taken on any new acting projects. I have completed shooting for OG and have around five days left to complete Ustaad Bhagat Singh. I will definitely not act anymore if I have political clashes because my priority is the administration and the Janasena Party," he stated. While distancing himself from acting, Kalyan hinted at continuing in the film industry in a different role. I need cinema for my financial sustenance. So, I will look to producing films in the future. Even if I do act, it will only be for two hours per day. But right now, I havent signed any more films." Among his upcoming releases, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, in production for over five years, will hit theatres on July 24, with paid premieres on July 23. Directed by Krish and Jyothi Krisna, the historical action drama stars Bobby Deol and Nidhhi Agerwal alongside Kalyan. Meanwhile, OG is helmed by Sujeeth, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh is directed by Harish Shankar. First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:56 IST News movies regional-cinema Pawan Kalyan Breaks Silence On Quitting Films For Politics: Wont Act But Suriya Greets Massive Crowd Outside His Home On 50th Birthday, Takes Selfie Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:29 IST Actor Suriya celebrated his 50th birthday on July 23, 2025, with fans outside his Chennai home. Videos went viral of him greeting fans and recording a selfie. Suriya greets fans outside his house. As actor Suriya celebrated his milestone 50th birthday on July 23, 2025, a sea of fans gathered outside his residence in Chennai to mark the occasion. Videos from the early morning celebration quickly spread across social media. It shows the actors overwhelmed reaction as chants of his name filled the street. In one of the widely shared clips, Suriya is seen in a simple white outfit, stepping out to greet the crowd. He smiles, folds his hands in gratitude, and waves to his fans as they cheer loudly from the packed street. A particularly heartfelt moment came when Suriya took out his phone and recorded a selfie video from a higher floor, showing the sheer volume of admirers assembled below. Love you all," he says in the video, blowing a flying kiss to the cheering crowd. Recommended Stories Take a look: Fans didnt just fill the road they climbed onto nearby structures and walls to catch a glimpse of the actor. One fan-recorded video from the street shows the crowd chanting his name. Suriya, who made his acting debut with Nerrukku Ner in 1997, has enjoyed a diverse filmography over the decades. While his recent outing Kanguva in 2024, in which he played both a warrior and a bounty hunter, underperformed with Rs 106.25 crore worldwide against its Rs 350-crore budget, he bounced back with Retro this year. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj, the film earned praise from critics and grossed Rs 96.97 crore globally. Currently, the actor is filming Karuppu with RJ Balaji, where he will once again portray dual roles. He has also signed a yet-untitled film with Venky Atluri, which will mark his debut in Telugu cinema. On Suriyas 50th birthday today, the teaser of Karuppu was released by the makers. It opens with power power-packed avatar of Suriya. The scene keeps on shifting. It is set against the village carnival. A voiceover adds gravitas, as Suriya makes a compelling entrance. Watch the teaser here: Karuppu, starring Suriya in the lead, is produced by Dream Warrior Pictures and written and directed by RJB, with cinematography by GK Vishnu and music by Sai Abhyankar. It is planned for release this October during Diwali. First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:29 IST News movies regional-cinema Suriya Greets Massive Crowd Outside His Home On 50th Birthday, Takes Selfie News / National by Staff reporter The founder of Mr and Miss Rural Zimbabwe, Esteemed Businesswomen Zimbabwe and Mental Voices Trust, Sipho Mazibuko, has been arrested for disorderly conduct, as she was planning on staging an illegal demonstration outside the Bulawayo magistrate's court this morning.She was arrested together with Mr and Miss Rural title holders, as well as her aides.Mazibuko, before being escorted onto a police van, claimed she was seeking justice for a 16-year-old rape victim."All the witnesses in the case are scared to testify because the accused's family has been threatening them," said Mazibuko.She alleged that the courts threatened to dismiss the matter if witnesses failed to testify.The case involves the complainant's uncle, a cross-border lorry driver who stands accused of repeatedly and heinously violating his 16-year-old niece under the false pretence of "healing" her ailing mother's undiagnosed illness.This alleged deceitful manipulation allegedly resulted in the accused raping the victim on 10 separate occasions.The horrific abuse came to light when a courageous whistle-blower from Mabheleni Village in Mbembesi,Matabeleland North Province reported to Mazibuko that a teenager was being abused by her uncle. Telangana Allows Price Hike For Pawan Kalyan's Hari Hara Veera Mallu Despite Pushpa 2 Tragedy Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 22, 2025, 19:02 IST The Telangana government approved a special premiere and ticket price hike for Hari Hara Veera Mallu. The film premieres on July 23, with increased prices until August 2. Pawan Kalyan in Hari Hara Veera Mallu. The Telangana government has approved a special premiere and ticket price hike for Hari Hara Veera Mallu, starring Pawan Kalyan. This comes just months after promising not to allow such benefits for films. In December 2024, after a tragic stampede at a Pushpa 2 promotional event left a woman dead and her son critically injured, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had declared in the Assembly, Until I am Chief Minister, I will not allow any privileges to the film industry." He had blamed the incident on unsafe crowd gatherings and promised to stop benefit and premiere shows. Recommended Stories But now, the government has made an exception for Hari Hara Veera Mallu. A new order allows a special premiere show on July 23 at 9 pm, a day before the films release, with ticket prices set at Rs 600. From July 24 to 27, multiplexes can charge Rs 200 extra and single screens Rs 150 extra. Between July 28 and August 2, multiplexes can hike prices by Rs 150, and single screens by up to Rs 106. The films producer, AM Rathnam, thanked Rohin Reddy, a close aide of the Chief Minister, for helping get the permission. He said, After the recent (Allu Arjun) incident in Telangana, we couldnt get ticket hikes and premieres. But thanks to (Revanth Reddys close aide) Rohin Reddy, who is present here, in this event we received clearance for special show." Pawan Kalyans highly anticipated pan-India historical action epic, Hari Hara Veera Mallu is set to release in theatres on July 24. Ahead of the grand premiere, the films producers have scheduled a pre-release event on July 21 in Hyderabad. Reportedly, the high-profile guest list includes ministers from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, as well as other significant film industry figures. As per a report by 123Telugu.com, the pre-release event for Hari Hara Veera Mallu will be held in the evening at Shilpa Kala Vedika in Hyderabad. The chief guests include Eshwar Khandre, Karnatakas Forest Department Minister; AP Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh; Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkatreddy; and popular directors such as Ss Rajamouli and Trivikram Srinivas, among others. They will share the dais with Pawan Kalyan. First Published: July 22, 2025, 19:02 IST News movies regional-cinema Telangana Allows Price Hike For Pawan Kalyan's Hari Hara Veera Mallu Despite Pushpa 2 Tragedy Opinion | A Call To Build A Drug-Free India Written By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:03 IST Addiction is not merely a chemical dependency; it is a symptom of inner unrest. Through simple practices, relaxation, meditation with yogic transmission, and a method called Cleaning, people begin to feel their inner space again. The Honble Prime Minister has called upon the nation to work together for a Viksit Bharat, a developed India, by 2047. A drug-free society is essential to this vision, where young people grow with health, purpose, and inner strength. This priority was reaffirmed in July 2025 during the Youth Spiritual Summit in Kashi, where the national pledge Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" was taken by leaders from government, spiritual organisations, and civil society. The Prime Ministers Office described it as a major step in building a drug-free India". According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India (201819), about 7.3 crore Indians were addicted to some form of substance, including 1.2 crore children. This alarming data prompted the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to launch the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration, with special attention on students and adolescents, our demographic dividend, and also among the most vulnerable groups. Recommended Stories The effects of this are visible in schools, colleges, homes, and neighborhoods across the country. As the NMBA newsletter rightly notes, educational spaces must remain drug-free, safe, and nurturing environments where students can thrive and contribute to a Viksit Bharat." India is preparing to celebrate 100 years of independence in 2047. For that vision to be realised, our youth must be strong, not just physically and intellectually, but also emotionally and spiritually. Yet many young hearts are quietly struggling. They are not merely hungry for success or recognition; they are hungry for connection. When connection is lost, other struggles begin to take root, like anxiety, fear, and addiction. Addiction is not merely a chemical dependency; it is a symptom of inner unrest. When the heart feels empty and the mind has no anchor, people reach outside for relief. Alcohol, drugs, screens, these become escapes from a deeper ache. We are seen asking, How do we fight addiction?" But the more urgent question is, How do we help our youth reconnect with themselves, with their hearts, and with the Source of peace within?" The Real Cure Begins With Reconnection When a person feels cut off, from meaning, from belonging, from inner strength, the mind becomes restless. The heart becomes numb. In this state, harmful habits thrive. Heartfulness addresses this root cause by restoring connection. Through simple practices, relaxation, meditation with yogic transmission, and a method called Cleaning, people begin to feel their inner space again. That space brings peace, clarity, and natural strength. Slowly, the need for escape vanishes. When we connect to the heart, and through it to the Source of peace within, life becomes meaningful again. This is the foundation for a drug-free life. We are not saying no". We are discovering a deeper yes". Our youth must be helped to say yes" to something real. That yes" begins with reconnection, with the heart, with higher purpose, and with the Source within. What the Kashi Pledge Says, and How We Support It The recent Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" pledge from Kashi brings together leaders across sectors, recognising that building a drug-free India requires participation from all stakeholders, especially the government, civil society, educators, spiritual groups, families, and especially the youth. It calls us to serve, cooperate, and act. At Heartfulness Institute, we fully accept this responsibility. For years, we have helped individuals find inner balance. When the mind is serene and the heart is strong, the pull of harmful habits fades. Our efforts are part of this national mission. The Pledge calls for campaigns in schools, youth-led clubs, de-addiction awareness, and partnerships with spiritual and cultural groups. Heartfulness is actively contributing in each of these areas and will continue to do so: Kanha Shanti Vanam: National Centre for Capacity Building in Support of NMBA Training and Institutional Development As a designated National Centre for Capacity Building, Kanha Shanti Vanam will support the training and development of personnel and institutions engaged in the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan across India. We will conduct orientation sessions, counselor training, and integrated retreats that integrate Heartfulness practices with preventive and recovery support systems. It is also our vision to establish a Manobal Kendra in every city in India, centers dedicated to developing inner resilience and strength, contributing to a truly Viksit Bharat. Youth leaders, educators, families, and frontline volunteers will be equipped to support those at risk and help build drug-free communities rooted in emotional and spiritual well-being. Each gathering will also reaffirm our collective commitment through the Kashi Pledge, strengthening the shared resolve to create a healthier, addiction-free India. Awareness in Schools and Colleges We guide meditation sessions and relaxation exercises that help students experience calm, even if only for minutes. This experience continues to shape who they are. Alongside these sessions, we facilitate the Kashi Pledge in classrooms and assemblies, allowing students and teachers to come together in a shared commitment toward a drug-free learning environment. Youth Clubs Through Heartfulness Youth Clubs, students meditate together, set positive goals, and support one another, creating networks of connection and belonging. Within these clubs, the Kashi Pledge becomes a natural part of the culture, an affirmation of their intent to live consciously and support one another in staying free from harmful influences. Outreach to Communities Our teams engage in prisons, rehab centres, and public events to share Heartfulness as a tool for both prevention and recovery. In each of these spaces, the Kashi Pledge will be introduced so that individuals can mark a turning point in their own journey toward balance and self-respect. Nasha Mukti App For those already struggling, our free app offers guided relaxation, short meditations, and progress tracking. It is a support tool and helps restore balance. Trainer Network Thousands of Heartfulness trainers across India offer one-on-one guidance, free of charge. Those seeking help can reach a nearby trainer. Support for Families Addiction affects entire families. We invite parents, spouses, and caregivers to attend sessions at our World Headquarters at Kanha Shanti Vanam for regular parenting sessions, so they can support recovery with patience and compassion. Training Volunteers We empower young volunteers to share these tools with peers, leading by their own transformation and example. Strength That Spreads A nations strength rests in the inner condition of its people. When hearts are strong, minds are clear, and actions are guided by conscience, a society becomes resilient. This kind of inner balance begins with sincere practice. Even one person living with awareness brings calm into their surroundings. Families, schools, and communities begin to reflect that calmness. Change happens through example. Heartfulness remains committed to nurturing this strength, person by person, in every corner of the country. From Stillness to Service The Kashi Pledge is a collective commitment. It invites all of us to rise with sincerity and care. Let us ensure that every child is seen. Let every home become a place of calm and guidance. Let every young person know where to turn for help and inner strength. We encourage parents, teachers, and community leaders to come forward. Begin with five minutes of meditation. Use the Heartfulness tools that are freely available. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This is how a culture of clarity and connection takes shape. One small act at a time. Firmly together. Kamlesh D Patel, aka Daaji, is the President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission and Global Guide of Heartfulness. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:03 IST News opinion Opinion | A Call To Build A Drug-Free India Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | Crystallising The Global South: PM Modis Vision For A New World Order Written By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:51 IST The Modi Doctrine does not speak of Indias prosperity and progress alone; it advocates shared prosperity and a shared future In the last decade, PM Modi has retrieved Indian diplomacy from the mindset that saw national interest as a secondary concern. (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modis recently concluded foreign tour, from July 2 to 9, covering two continents and five nations, was the longest such trip undertaken in ten years. The pace was unchanged. It was relentless and focused on realising Indias strategic and national interest goals. Apart from the many gains it made for India and for her global partnerships at many levels, this trip was crucial and symbolic on an important count. It served to reiterate and crystallise the philosophy and vision of the Global South", consistently articulated by PM Modi over the last five years. Pursuing Indias strategic and foreign policy goals and articulating a vision for a new global discourse and paradigm went hand in hand during PM Modis interactions and addresses on this long tour. The hard interests and dealings were not neglected. In fact, under Modi in the last decade, they have never been given up or jettisoned, while the deeper vision that can effectuate a global shift and change in the emerging new order was also stated through PM Modis emphasis on the Global South" paradigm. Recommended Stories Pandit Deendayal Upadhyayas thoughts on Indias foreign policy principles come to mind in this context. In a sharp analysis of the dominant paradigm of Indias foreign policy in the Nehru era, he articulated what could be said to be the driving goal of a nations foreign policy: It must be borne in mind," Upadhyaya wrote, that foreign policy is always a matter of policy and not one of principle. Protection and promotion of national interests is the principle which determines its formulation. So, when anyone insists on it with a vehemence that implies a secondary place of consideration for national interests, he errs." (Alignment vs Non-alignment, July 18, 1960) In the last decade, PM Modi has retrieved Indian diplomacy from this mindset which saw national interest as a secondary concern. He has made national interest the driving force and the touchstone of Indias diplomacy. Protection and promotion of national interests" has become the primary focus of Indias diplomacy under PM Modi. It is, as we argued in our assessment of PM Modis foreign policy in 2016, just two years after he assumed office, the foundational pillar of the Modi Doctrine." It signified a definite paradigm shift from Panchsheel to Panchamrit. Jawaharlal Nehrus Panchsheel was not backed by force and conviction; it was driven by defenseless pacifism. Modis Panchamrit is backed by strength, is dynamic and aims to see India emerge as a major power a power that matters. It is the foundation of PM Modis diplomacy. PM Modis Panchamrit foreign policy, as we had argued, stands on five pillars: Samman (dignity and honour), Samvad (greater engagement and dialogue), Samriddhi (shared prosperity, Suraksha (regional and global security), Sanskriti evam Sabhyata (cultural and civilisational linkages). It is a crystallised foreign policy doctrine and has had an effect and visibility on the ground. Let us look at some of these dimensions. Operation Sindoor reiterated PM Modis commitment to the Suraksha" dimension. Surgical strikes in response to the Uri terror attack in September 2016, Pulwama in 2019, and Pahalgam in 2025 have seen a quantum leap in technique and resolve. The ability and willingness to strike as distinct from the strike itself had left the world watching. No country disputed Indias right to strike to safeguard her security imperatives. It displayed the effectiveness of the Suraksha dimension and the commitment to it in the Modi Doctrine-driven foreign policy. The Suraksha dimension has been clearly visible in Indias response to Chinese adventurism in Doklam and Galwan. India dug in her heels and held her ground. Eventually, Samvad over the last few years, held on Indias terms, has seen a movement forward on the China front. The resumption of the Kailas Mansarovar Yatra is one of the signs of that renewed momentum. The emphasis on Suraksha in the Modi Doctrine is also visible in Indias determined and persistent stand that terrorism and its sources need to be called out globally. Prime Minister Modis unambiguous stand on international forums has elicited wide global support. His emphasis that condemnation of terrorism must be our principle, not a mere convenience" at the recently held BRICS summit received endorsement. The Rio de Janeiro Declaration Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance" came out strongly against the Pahalgam terror attack and spoke of combating terrorism in all forms, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens." It also urged all members to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism." The Sanskriti and Sabhyata cultural and civilisational linkages dimension has been most visible of late in the mega Dhammayatras" with Lord Buddhas sacred relics, undertaken over the last few months in the Buddhist countries of Southeast Asia. After a massive congregation in Thailand in February 2024, the sacred relics Dhammayatra in Vietnam in May 2025 saw over 14 million people congregate across various cities and from neighbouring countries to venerate and worship. Never since Samrat Ashokas time has India undertaken such a civilisational Dhammayatra of such magnitude. With PM Modis personal involvement, in pursuit of the vision of the Asian Century" inspired by the legacy and message of Buddha, such a Dhammayatra reflects Indias aspiration to renew special civilisational linkages and of her emergence as Viswamitra. PM Modis visit to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Temple at Anuradhapura in April this year demonstrated the commitment in the Modi Doctrine to renewing and relaying civilisational and cultural linkages under a new rubric. These symbolise Indias commitment to relationships defined by compassion, prosperity, and possibilities a commitment to partnerships that are beneficial and non-exploitative. PM Modis vision of the Global South" is driven by the essence of the Viswamitra narrative. The Modi Doctrine does not speak of Indias prosperity and progress alone; it advocates shared prosperity and a shared future. It envisages shared zones of prosperity. During his five-nation tour, PM Modi consistently spoke of the voice of the Global South." It was a tour that, among other things, further crystallised the Global South" framework for engagement over the next decade. He had earlier defined its core philosophy when he argued that Most of the global challenges have not been created by the Global South. But they affect us more" and that the search for solutions also does not factor in our role or our voice." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In this pan-continent tour, PM Modi reiterated this message of the need to search for global solutions by factoring in the role of the Global South" which is perhaps the most defining and future-oriented global narrative that can shape and influence the emerging new order. In the last decade, the narrative of the Global South" is thus among the most crucial additions to the Modi Doctrine. The author is chairman, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation, and a member of the National Executive Committee, BJP. The views expressed are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:51 IST News opinion Opinion | Crystallising The Global South: PM Modis Vision For A New World Order Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | The Reluctant Exit Of A Constitutional Nationalist Written By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:30 IST Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation may be effective immediately, but the echo of his voice in rulings and sharp interventions will remain in Parliaments conscience for years to come In a letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Jagdeep Dhankhar said he was resigning from the post of vice president and ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha with immediate effect, citing medical reasons. (Image: PTI/File) The sudden resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, citing health reasons, marks the end of a short but influential chapter in Indian constitutional life. At 74, Dhankhar has stepped down midway through his six-year tenure, joining the ranks of only two other vice presidents, VV Giri and R Venkataraman, who resigned before completing their terms, albeit for different reasons. But unlike his predecessors who left to assume the higher office of the president, Dhankhars exit is one of necessity, not political ambition. It is a moment of reflection for the Indian polity, especially for those who value articulation, constitutional clarity, and nationalist conviction in the upper echelons of public life. Recommended Stories Jagdeep Dhankhars career arc has been anything but conventional. A lawyer by training and a farmers son by identity, his rise through the political ranks was not driven by dynastic entitlement or ideological posturing. His greatest visibility came not during his years in Parliament or Cabinet, but as Governor of West Bengal. It was there, in the volatile political landscape of Bengal, that Dhankhar found his voice as a constitutional sentinel, one not afraid to call out the excesses of Mamata Banerjees regime. Where many governors chose silence or discretion in dealing with regional satraps, Dhankhar spoke with legal precision and unapologetic nationalism. His insistence on constitutional accountability rattled the state government and often set the tone for the national debate. That combative style carried into the Rajya Sabha after his election as vice president in 2022. At the time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had hailed him as a kisan putra" with deep knowledge of the Constitution and legislative procedure. It was no mere ceremonial endorsement. In a house that often witnesses theatrical opposition and walkouts, Dhankhar brought a lawyers rigour and a patriots candour. His ability to maintain order, invoke constitutional provisions with ease, and push back gently but firmly against unruly conduct made him a chairman who did more than wield the gavel. He wielded moral authority. In many ways, Dhankhars presence was the ideological complement to the BJP-led governments legislative agenda. Not in the sense of partisanship, he remained constitutionally non-aligned in his conduct, but in his understanding of Indias civilisational values and constitutional ethos. When the Opposition accused the government of undermining institutions, it was Dhankhar who reminded them often with surgical clarity of constitutional roles and responsibilities. He was not afraid to confront the constitutional illiteracy" of some members of Parliament and frequently used the Rajya Sabha pulpit to educate, not just adjudicate. What sets Dhankhar apart is that he was never a mere bureaucratic custodian of his office. He was an institution in motion, a living embodiment of the Constitutions intent to have checks and balances enforced with wisdom and resolve. Whether it was upholding parliamentary decorum or questioning judicial overreach, he spoke with an intellectual sharpness that kept both Houses of Parliament and courtrooms on their toes. He famously said that the basic structure doctrine" must evolve through discussion, not dogma, provoking necessary conversations about the limits of judicial supremacy. His resignation letter, while graceful and full of gratitude, conceals the weight of disappointment many constitutionalists and nationalist thinkers will now carry. The timing, too, is poignant. That Dhankhar administered oaths to new Rajya Sabha members earlier in the day, only to step down hours later, shows the deep sense of duty with which he served till the very end. It was not a quiet exit, but a dignified one. It is important to note that his resignation comes amidst recurring health issues, including a recent cardiac episode and a public fainting spell. This reminds us that even the most committed public servants are human and vulnerable. Prioritising health is not weakness; it is wisdom. Still, one cannot help but sense that his resignation has left unfinished the mission he seemed destined to carry forward: to redefine the role of vice president from being ornamental to being meaningfully constitutional. In an age where identity politics dominates the discourse and shouting matches often substitute for debate, Jagdeep Dhankhar brought to public life a rare blend of clarity, conviction, and constitutional rectitude. He never wore nationalism like a badge for electoral optics; it was embedded in his vocabulary, his decisions, and his worldview. He spoke not for votes but for values. For that alone, he will be missed. As India looks to find a successor, the bar he has set will be a difficult one to reach. The next vice president will inherit not just an office, but a legacy, one of fearless constitutional articulation, deep respect for Indias civilisational heritage, and a refusal to bow before political expediency. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In Jagdeep Dhankhar, the country saw a vice president who was more than a chairperson of the Upper House. It saw a guardian of the Constitution, a sentinel of propriety, and above all, a nationalist who believed that the rule of law is the bedrock of Bharats destiny. His resignation may be effective immediately, but the echo of his voice in speeches, rulings, and sharp interventions will remain in Parliaments conscience for years to come. The writer is a technocrat, political analyst, and author. He pens national, geopolitical, and social issues. His social media handle is @prosenjitnth. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. About the Author Prosenjit Nath The writer is an Indian technocrat, political analyst, and author. The writer is an Indian technocrat, political analyst, and author. First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:30 IST News opinion Opinion | The Reluctant Exit Of A Constitutional Nationalist Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 22, 2025, 19:18 IST 1 / 10 The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to retire its remaining Russian-made MiG-21 Bison fighter jets by September this year. (File Pic) 2 / 10 At present, the IAF operates two squadrons of the upgraded Bison variant. Sources have indicated that a formal farewell ceremony is being planned to honour the aircraft that has served the nation for decades and played a pivotal role in several key operations. (File Pic) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 10 The MiG-21, developed by the Soviet Mikoyan-Gurevich Bureau, was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963. As Indias first supersonic jet, it became a cornerstone of the countrys air defence capabilities. Since its induction, the IAF has operated over 870 MiG-21s. (File Pic) 4 / 10 The MiG-21 Bison, an upgraded version of the MiG-21bis, had been first inducted into service in 1976. According to several reports, the MiG-21 had completed its retirement period in the mid-1990s. (File Pic) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 10 The aircraft played a pivotal role in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan. (File Pic) 6 / 10 According to reports, the MiG-21 rose to iconic status in aviation history, with more than 11,000 units produced across various variants. (File Pic) ADVERTISEMENT 7 / 10 Its affordability, agility, and supersonic capabilities made it a favoured choice for air forces across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. (File pic) 8 / 10 Although the jets were originally scheduled for retirement earlier, their service tenure was extended due to delays in the delivery of the Tejas Mk1A aircraft. (File Pic) ADVERTISEMENT 9 / 10 Notably, during the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman flew a MiG-21 Bison and engaged in a high-profile dogfight with Pakistani jets. Only the Bison variant of the MiG-21 remains in service today. (File Pic) Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:21 IST At the inauguration of a new Swadesh store in Mumbai, Nita Ambanis heritage-inspired look exuded a rare poise and elegance. 1 / 7 Nita Ambani attended the inauguration of a new Swadesh store in Mumbai with her signature poise and traditional flair. (Image: Instagram) 2 / 7 For the occasion, Nita Ambani wore a beautifully woven gharchola saree in a soft blush-pink palette, crafted from fine Madurai cotton. Delicately embroidered borders and subtle touches of gold lent the saree a refined elegance. Dressed in the classic seedha pallu drape, her look paid tribute to Gujarats traditional textile heritage. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 7 The saree took nearly 10 months to complete, painstakingly handwoven by master craftsman Shri Rajshrundar from Rajkot. Styled by Manish Malhotra, it was paired with a phirozi blue silk kanchali blouse, which featured antique gold threadwork, adding an air of vintage regality. (Image: Instagram) 4 / 7 True to her signature style, Nita chose meaningful jewellery pieces, each carrying layers of familial significance. She wore an intricate gold bajubandh, an heirloom passed down from her maternal great-grandmother. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 7 A deeply personal piece, this armlet was also part of Nitas wedding trousseau and is now intended for her daughter Isha, and eventually, granddaughter Aadiyashakti. (Image: Instagram) 6 / 7 Her necklace was a true work of art: each section set in white gold, hand-painted to depict scenes from the life of Lord Srinath, celebrating devotion and craftsmanship alike. A pair of diamond-studded earrings and a stack of soft pink bangles tied the entire look together with understated sophistication. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:31 IST Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne has passed away at the age of 76, his family announced on Tuesday. Known for his larger-than-life persona and groundbreaking contribution to heavy metal music, the legend died just weeks after his farewell performance. 1 / 9 In a heartbreaking post on Instagram, the Osbourne family wrote: "It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis" (Image: Instagram) 2 / 9 Born John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham, England, Ozzy rose to global fame as the lead vocalist of Black Sabbath, whose sound laid the foundation for a darker, heavier brand of rock music in the 1970s. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 9 Known for his flamboyant stage anticsincluding the infamous moment he bit the head off a batOzzy embraced the Prince of Darkness" moniker and built a persona that was both terrifying and magnetic. (Image: Instagram) 4 / 9 He later enjoyed a successful solo career and became a reality TV star with The Osbournes, a show that gave fans an intimate look into his family life. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 9 Osbourne was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease in 2019 and had publicly spoken about his declining health in recent years. (Image: Instagram) 6 / 9 Despite his illness, he continued to perform and record music, remaining active in the industry until the very end. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT 7 / 9 His final public performance was part of a farewell event that drew emotional reactions from fans and peers alike, celebrating a career that spanned more than five decades. (Image: Instagram) 8 / 9 Tributes have already begun pouring in from musicians, celebrities, and fans across the world, remembering him not only as a musical trailblazer but also as a beloved father, husband, and friend. (Image: Instagram) ADVERTISEMENT Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 23:57 IST Reliance Industries chairman and managing director Mukesh Ambani visited the iconic BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in London along with his youngest son Anant Ambani and daughter-in-law Radhika Merchant on July 13. The visit came a day after Anant and Radhika celebrated their first wedding anniversary on July 12 this year. 1 / 6 Their visit to the temple shows the Ambani familys strong faith and commitment to tradition, which they continue to follow, amidst busy public lives. (CNN-News18) 2 / 6 The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in London is an architectural marvel, besides being a significant place of worship for the Hindu community in the UK. (CNN-News18) ADVERTISEMENT 3 / 6 Mukesh Ambani, Anant, and Radhika offered prayers at the revered Hindu temple and sought blessings. (CNN-News18) 4 / 6 "It was a pleasure to welcome Shri Mukesh, Shri Anant and Shrimati Radhika Ambani to Neasden Temple. They visited seeking darshan and blessings on the occasion of Anant and Radhikas first wedding anniversary a devout moment of faith, family, and gratitude," neasdentemple posted on Instagram. (CNN-News18) ADVERTISEMENT 5 / 6 Radhika and Anant tied the knot on July 12, 2024. The marriage ceremony was held at Mumbai's Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. (CNN-News18) August 26, 2025, 08:52 AM IST | Episode 33 In today's News18 Daily Digest: Election Commission releases new Bihar voter roll data showing over 99% documents received with seven days remaining before deadline as BJP continues attacking Rahul Gandhi for spreading lies; Dharwad case controversy deepens as whistleblower's wife alleges larger conspiracy claiming husband was influenced to make false charges, BJP demands NIA-CBI probe; politics enters Mysore Dasara festivities as Congress invites Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq for inauguration, sparking BJP criticism; fresh controversy erupts in Tamil Nadu after DMK ally VCK's Vani Arasu invokes Rama-Shambuka tale calling it caste oppression symbol; police seek custody of four accused in horrific Noida dowry death case as National Women's Commission steps in; Telangana CM Revanth Reddy admits state treasury empty, blames previous BRS government for financial crisis while BJP hits back calling it Congress governance failure; weather disruptions continue with Jammu schools closed in all 10 districts due to heavy rain, IMD warns of cloudbursts and flash floods over 48 hours; yellow alert also in Kerala, and more. Tune in for top news from India and around the world... Jagdeep Dhankhar's Sudden Exit Evokes 'Congress's Compassion', But Here's Why TMC Is Unmoved Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 07:00 IST The Congress anticipates that Dhankhar might eventually reveal damaging information about the government. However, sources say the government is prepared to counter this The TMC was keen on an impeachment motion against Jagdeep Dhankhar, but it failed due to duplicated signatures from two Congress MPs, which Trinamool sources claim was a deliberate act to protect Dhankhar. File pic Politicians often find opportunities in times of trouble, and Jagdeep Dhankhars resignation has become a contentious issue in Parliament. Opposition parties, especially the Congress, see it as a chance to challenge the government. Dhankhar, previously criticised by the opposition as a government puppet", is now the focal point of their efforts to defend him". The Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and Samajwadi Party have questioned his sudden resignation, speculating whether he was forced out. Dhankhars departure is now being used to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the government. Sources suggest that many secrets are emerging. Notably, the Trinamool Congress skipped the INDIA bloc meeting on Tuesday, despite its MPs being in the national capital. The TMCs absence is attributed to its long-standing animosity with Dhankhar. The party only engaged with him when he became vice president out of constitutional duty, but no TMC MP has had a close meeting with him in the past year and a half. Recommended Stories The TMC was keen on an impeachment motion against Dhankhar, but it failed due to duplicated signatures from two Congress MPs, which Trinamool sources claim was a deliberate act to protect Dhankhar. The Congress allegedly wanted two impeachment proceedings: one against Justice Varma and another against Justice Yadav. Dhankhar reportedly assured the party that he would look into it, though he was noncommittal. The PMs non-post on X regarding Shri Jagdeep Dhankars forced resignation has only added to the mystery of his abrupt exit. Surely the PM could have been a bit more gracioushe is, after all, the supreme master of hypocrisy. The kisanputra is being denied even a dignified Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) July 22, 2025 Sources say the government was not too concerned about the Kharge and Kejriwal meetings, but Dhankhars interest in a double impeachment alarmed it, especially as the ruling NDA planned to have one vote from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The credit for initiating the impeachment motion against Justice Varma is seen as a larger fight against corruption, something the government would not want to attribute solely to the opposition. The Congress, RJD, SP, and TMC were largely united in their stance, but sources say Trinamool has not forgiven the Congress for what it views as a failed impeachment attempt against Dhankhar. It believes the Congress was aligning with the vice president, whom it had always criticised as a government stooge". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Congress was quick to question Dhankhars sudden resignation. Jairam Ramesh, Priyanka Chaturvedi, and Tejashwi Yadav from the opposition all raised concerns, aiming to use the Dhankhar issue to attack the Prime Minister and the BJP. They view Dhankhar as a lesser enemy compared to the government. The Congress hopes to prove that the BJP does not tolerate dissent, drawing parallels with Satya Pal Malik, the former lieutenant governor of Jammu and Kashmir. The party anticipates that Dhankhar might eventually reveal damaging information about the government. However, sources say the government is aware of the Congresss strategy and is prepared to counter it. About the Author Pallavi Ghosh Pallavi Ghosh has covered politics and Parliament for 15 years, and has reported extensively on Congress, UPA-I and UPA-II, and has now included the Finance Ministry and Niti Aayog in her reportage. She has als... Read More Pallavi Ghosh has covered politics and Parliament for 15 years, and has reported extensively on Congress, UPA-I and UPA-II, and has now included the Finance Ministry and Niti Aayog in her reportage. She has als... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:00 IST News politics Jagdeep Dhankhar's Sudden Exit Evokes 'Congress's Compassion', But Here's Why TMC Is Unmoved Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter The city of Bulawayo is facing a troubling shift in its social landscape, as an increasing number of children living and working on the streets now originate from the city itself - a stark contrast to past trends when most street children came from outlying rural areas and other provinces.Child protection organisations and social workers are raising the alarm, seeking answers to what is pushing children from local suburbs such as Makokoba, Cowdray Park, Mbundane, Nkulumane, and Burnside onto the streets permanently."We used to have children coming from Masvingo, Mutare, Beitbridge, and Binga," said Sikholiwe Ncube, the Bulawayo Provincial Coordinator for Scripture Union Zimbabwe, during a visit organised by the National AIDS Council (NAC). "Now we are seeing children from our own backyards. It's concerning."The faces on the streets of Bulawayo today reflect a worrying transformation. No longer are they unfamiliar migrantsmany of the children are from homes just a few kilometres away, raising difficult questions about the health of the family unit and the socio-economic pressures faced by local communities.Ncube, who runs the Thuthuka programme for vulnerable children, said they are trying to understand whether the root causes lie in failing parenting, community disintegration, economic hardship or abuse.Dr Khanyile Mlotshwa, a scholar in Critical Studies, believes the trend signals a broader societal breakdown. "This may be an urban phenomenon where young people seek a living. Nevertheless, the family is clearly in a crisis. When children no longer feel like they belong, they go to the streets and take a shot at life from there," he said.Bishop Handsome Ncube of Glory Emmaus Ministries International offered another perspective, suggesting that Bulawayo's emergence as a major city is also playing a role."Bulawayo is now one of the big regional cities. What we are experiencing is a lot of people searching for economic avenuesincluding children," he said.He added that the collapse of the extended family system means fewer safety nets for vulnerable children. "Economic pressures have made guardianship a disappearing concept. People cannot afford to feed extra mouths."Residents like Emmanuel Sibanda of Emthunzini believe the reasons vary. "Some children are escaping poverty, others abuse, and some are drawn by the idea of freedom or fast cash," he said.According to Best Ndlovu, a child protection activist with Thuthuka, some children are not yet fully street-based but are transitioning toward that lifestyle. They leave home during the day to beg or work and return at nighta pattern that gradually erodes family ties.Ncube provided a striking example of this transition. "You'll see the same child in the morning, then later in the afternoon and even at night on the streets. They tell you they'll go home, but they never do. It's a pattern we see often," she said.Some children start on the streets innocentlyperhaps escorting a parent with a disabilityand end up seduced by the independence and camaraderie of street life."Eventually, the street becomes their habitat. Before long, they move to other cities. We've had children end up in Harare, who were just around Makokoba or Mbundane," Ncube added.While both boys and girls are affected, the majority of those living on the streets are boys. Some boys, according to Ncube, say they feel less valued at home. "In interviews, they say families prefer girls. Parents may push boys to go out and sell, while girls stay home."At the heart of efforts to respond to this crisis is Scripture Union's drop-in centre, where children can bathe, eat, do laundry, receive psychosocial support and reconnect with trusted adults."That's our entry point. From there, we learn about their stories and figure out how to support them," said Ndlovu. "You might think a child is just being rebellious, but often it's because they need help reconnecting with their family."Working with the Department of Social Development, Thuthuka has managed to reunify many children with their families. But reunification only works if the root causespoverty, abuse, school dropoutare addressed."We don't just send children back. We work with the families to resolve underlying issues. Some are child-headed households. Some children dropped out of school. We give food hampers, help them get IDs, access BEAM support, and more," Ndlovu explained.Alarmingly, many children disappear without their communities reporting them missing. "This silence is dangerous. Without missing person reports, we can't act quickly. Children disappear, and no one follows up," Ndlovu said.Thuthuka's holistic approach includes life skills training, trauma counselling, and peer-to-peer dialogue sessions like "brother-to-brother" and "sister-to-sister" to help youth process difficult experiences and reduce risky behaviour.Since its launch in 1995, the programme has reached more than 5,000 children, with an annual average of around 170. Many of these children have gone on to become professionalsincluding teachers, media workers, and even PhD holders."We don't name them because we don't want to stigmatise them. But the success stories are there," Ndlovu said.As Bulawayo grapples with this mounting crisis, social workers are urging the public not to shame or ignore children on the streets. Rather, they call for empathy, action, and a renewed community focus on protecting children before they disappear from their homes and into lives of hardship."Giving food to a street child doesn't encourage street life any more than feeding prisoners increases crime," Ndlovu concluded. "It's about reaching their heartsand giving them hope for something better." 8 Weeks In The Making: What Led To Jagdeep Dhankhars Surprise Resignation Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 18:48 IST Top sources confirm that the conflict between the Vice-President and the government reached a point of no return nearly eight weeks ago, around the end of April Speculation about Jagdeep Dhankhars quiet meetings with Opposition leaders remains, but sources close to the party say those were not the trigger. (File) Over 36 hours have passed since Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his constitutional post, yet the mystery surrounding his sudden departure continues to deepen. What began as silent friction behind closed doors is now erupting into a slow political unravelling, and it appears to be just the beginning. Top sources confirm that the conflict between the Vice-President and the government reached a point of no return" nearly eight weeks ago, around the end of April. Recommended Stories Alarmed by his growing assertiveness, and some unilateral decisions", which were perceived as increasing institutional independence, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activated its organisational redress system in a bid to contain the rift. Layered fallout as deadlock persists At least three senior leaders including two organisational heads were tasked with smoothing over the differences. But despite multiple rounds of quiet diplomacy and a series of discussions, the deadlock held. Eventually, the party began considering the most drastic step, a removal motion against a sitting Vice-President, something unprecedented in Indian parliamentary history. Faced with this possibility, Dhankhar decided to take control of the narrative and tendered his resignation to evade further humiliation and embarrassment". What followed in the hours immediately after his exit was telling in itself. Orders for transfers and other posting of IAS and IFS officers attached to the Vice-Presidents Secretariat were issued without delay, which apparently was a clear sign that the establishment was ready to move on, swiftly and without sentiment. Bulletproof car to VP enclave: Clash of titans Dhankhar has been the man who relentlessly took on the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and outside, while defending the governments position with near-daily consistency, and was often accused of blatant overreach in favour of the regime. This aspect made the resignation even more striking than anyone can fathom. The tipping points were layered. His alleged insistence on a bulletproof vehicle citing institutional dignity, a new palatial VP enclave that drew murmurs within the BJP leadership, and his active foreign trips all became pressure points. A look at the VPs engagement with foreign delegation, his counterparts of foreign nations and other call on programs started reducing from February onwards. In fact, post March, he did not have any call-on events at the VP enclave. His foreign trips were curtailed around the same time. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Added to this was his increasingly pronounced desire to project the Vice Presidents office as more than ceremonial, even quasi-autonomous, something that did not also sit well with the centralised style of governance. Speculation about Dhankhars quiet meetings with Opposition leaders remains, but sources close to the party say those were not the trigger. It was the tone, not the company," says a BJP insider. He was beginning to act as if the Vice-Presidents office came with its own political bandwidth," he added. About the Author Madhuparna Das Madhuparna Das, Associate Editor (policy) at CNN News 18, has been in journalism for nearly 14 years. She has extensively been covering politics, policy, crime and internal security issues. She has covered Naxa... Read More Madhuparna Das, Associate Editor (policy) at CNN News 18, has been in journalism for nearly 14 years. She has extensively been covering politics, policy, crime and internal security issues. She has covered Naxa... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:20 IST News politics 8 Weeks In The Making: What Led To Jagdeep Dhankhars Surprise Resignation Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Looting In Name Of GST': Notices To Karnataka Vendors Trigger Political Slugfest Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 20:56 IST Small and micro traders across Karnataka had objected to receiving GST notices linked to their UPI transactions. The BJP and JDS slammed the Congress government over the move. Politics heats up in Karnataka over GST notices to vendors (FIle Image) A political slugfest has erupted over GST notices issued to small traders and vendors on their UPI transactions in Karnataka, with the Opposition BJP and JDS accusing the Congress government of trying to pass on the blame to the Centre. A section of small and micro traders across the state had objected to receiving GST notices linked to their UPI transactions, and traders associations asked the businesses to boycott UPI transactions. They had also called for a statewide strike on July 25. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah later announced that the government wont recover tax from them. Recommended Stories Siddaramaiah said he held a meeting with small traders and discussed the notices. I called a meeting with small traders and others to discuss the issue of notices being issued to small traders, as notices were being issued to those with a turnover of more than Rs 40 lakh," he said. Around 9000 notices were issued. The central government has decided to impose a one per cent tax on these individuals There was confusion among small traders about thisTraders dealing in exempt goods shall not be registered compulsarilyOld tax arrears would not be pursuedThe delegation has agreed to withdraw the agitation called on July 25," the Chief Minister added. Opposition Slams Govt Over GST Notices The BJP lashed out at Siddaramaiah over the notices and said that his announcement that tax wont be collected from street vendors proves Karnataka government was imposing taxes on them. All these days, #TaxCM @siddaramaiah loudly claimed that the state government was not responsible for imposing taxes on small traders blaming the central government instead, and saying taxation wasnt the states domain. But now, he has announced that taxes will not be collected from small traders. This clearly proves that the @INCKarnataka government was the one imposing heavy taxes running a loot in the name of GST, with traders receiving tax notices worth lakhs," BJP Karnataka tweeted. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all JDS, a BJP ally, also slammed the Congress government over the issue, however, welcomed the governments step to withdraw the notices. @Siddaramaiah, who had been dismissing claims and saying that the state government had not issued notices to small traders, has finally admitted the truth. The Congress government, which had started collecting what people are calling the #GuaranteeSiddaramaiahTax in the name of GST to fill the empty treasury, has been forced to wake up after facing backlash from small traders and the public. In connection with the GST notices sent to small traders by the Commercial Taxes Department, the Chief Minister held a meeting to avoid further embarrassment," JDS tweeted. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 20:56 IST News politics 'Looting In Name Of GST': Notices To Karnataka Vendors Trigger Political Slugfest Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Mutton Party': Tejashwi Yadav Slams NDA Meet Menu Ahead Of Bihar Polls, BJP Hits Back Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 11:43 IST Tejashwi Yadav's reaction came in the wake of the BJP's attack on him in the past for eating non-vegetarian food during holy months. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. (Image: PTI/File) The poll battle in Bihar is getting intense day by day, with RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav sharing a video from an NDA meeting at the Assembly in Patna on Monday. The video shows a pot labelled Mutton Roganjosh in the dining area. The Kashmiri delicacy was served on the second Monday (Somvaar) amid the ongoing month of Sawan, considered sacred by a section of Hindus, who avoid non-vegetarian food during this month. Recommended Stories Yadavs reaction came in the wake of the BJPs attack on him in the past for eating non-vegetarian food during holy months. With Prime Minister Narendra Modis blessing, BJPs ministers and MLAs are feasting over mutton on Sawan Somvar," Yadav said in a post on X, accusing BJP of doing selective" politics. The Bihar cabinet has three ministers who consume 1 kg of mutton daily, but deliver long speeches on Sanatan, he said, adding, We have no problem with anyones food habits, but the Prime Minister is so selective. He is fine with his party leaders eating mutton, but when it comes to Opposition leaders, who do not eat meat during Saawan, he does not hesitate to use lies to turn their food habits into a national issue." BJP Hits Back Hitting back at Yadav, BJP spokesperson Manoj Sharma asked if Yadav has CCTV footage of who ate what. Should he be watching the food counter or working for Bihars development? Maybe the caterer served both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Whats the fuss?" he was quoted as saying by The Times of India. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Last week, the RJD leader had targeted the NDA and the Prime Minister over JDU leader and Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh also known as Lalan Singh hosting a mutton party. Earlier, in 2023, the BJP and its allies had slammed the RJD-Congress alliance over visuals of RJD patriarch and veteran politician Lalu Prasad Yadav hosting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for a mutton meal during the month of Saawan. About the Author Mahima Joshi Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Mahima Joshi, Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking team. Covering national stories and bringing breaking news to the table are her forte. She is deeply interested in Indian politics and a... Read More Location : Bihar, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 11:43 IST News politics 'Mutton Party': Tejashwi Yadav Slams NDA Meet Menu Ahead Of Bihar Polls, BJP Hits Back Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tagore Statue, Bangladesh Hindus & More: TMC Tries To Corner BJP With Tough Questions In Parliament Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:41 IST It appears that many Parliamentary questions listed by TMC MPs in both houses are aligning with the partys aggressive Bengali Asmita campaign against the BJP. TMC MPs Sagarika Ghose and Derek O'Brien. (Image: PTI) Days after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee led a protest march from Kolkatas College Street to Esplanade against the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states and threatened with a second Bhasha Andolan" (language movement), it appears that many Parliamentary questions listed by TMC MPs in both houses are aligning with the partys aggressive Bengali Asmita campaign against the BJP. On Thursday, TMCs Rajya Sabha MP Ritabrata Banerjee will put forth a question for the Ministry of Culture that may pose a challenge for the Bengal BJP. Banerjee will inquire whether there is indeed no statue of Rabindranath Tagore at the Jallianwala Bagh memorial. If the answer is affirmative, he will seek the reasons for its absence and question whether there are any plans to install Tagores statue at the memorial soon. Recommended Stories For those unfamiliar, Tagore returned his Knighthood in 1919 to protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which deeply moved him. Estimates of the dead vary from 379 to 1,500 or more. Every Bengali learns about Tagores revulsion from a young age. The TMC, aiming to harness the Bangaliyana sentiment, hopes for a straightforward answer devoid of political bias, which could sway voter sentiment in the state against the BJP. On Thursday, Sagarika Ghose listed an unstarred question for the Minister of External Affairs, seeking an answer that might unsettle the BJPs core voter base. She will ask about the steps taken to ensure that attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh are punished by the Government of Bangladesh, and request details of these measures if they exist, or the reasons for their absence if they do not. Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported 23 Hindu deaths in Bangladesh between early August 2024 and early 2025, linked to violence, along with 152 temple attacks. Between November 26, 2024, and January 25, 2025, there were 76 reported anti-Hindu incidents. Any careless response could have significant political repercussions, and the TMC is waiting patiently for such a slip. Ghose will also ask whether the Ministry is maintaining records on the number of individuals from the Hindu community who have been victims of attacks in Bangladesh. Furthermore, she will inquire if S Jaishankars External Affairs Ministry has taken up the matter with the Government of Bangladesh and whether any official fact-finding team has been sent or is planned to be sent to the neighboring nation currently facing civil disturbances. As TMC has intensified its attack on BJP, the BJP has also sharpened its counter by accusing TMC of helping Bangladeshis" obtain Indian documents. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, on Wednesday, in the Upper House, TMCs Parliamentary Leader in Rajya Sabha Derek OBrien listed unstarred questions to the Minister of Home Affairs. He asked for details of funds requested by states and disbursed under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for the rehabilitation of disaster-displaced people over the last five years, year-wise and disaster-wise. This question is significant because just a week ago, Mamata Banerjee accused the Centre of denying flood relief funds to West Bengal. She alleged that while Assam receives aid, West Bengal struggles with floods caused by water release from DVC reservoirs a charge the DVC denied. OBrien also inquired whether the Government plans to consult states for introducing any national framework aimed at the long-term rehabilitation of internally displaced people due to disasters, seeking details if such plans exist or reasons for their absence if they do not. This aligns with TMCs broader Bengali pride campaign. This monsoon session, TMC MPs have posed some tricky parliamentary questions. The ultimate outcome depends on the responses provided, determining whether TMC or BJP will have the last laugh. About the Author Anindya Banerjee Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep throat in ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:41 IST News politics Tagore Statue, Bangladesh Hindus & More: TMC Tries To Corner BJP With Tough Questions In Parliament Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Will You Do?: Hindi-Speaking Man Assaulted By MNS Workers For Refusing To Speak Marathi Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 22:10 IST Violent incidents relating to language have increased lately in Maharashtra. Several videos have surfaced, showing people getting assaulted for refusing to speak Marathi. Follow us on: Man assaulted for speaking Marathi in Nanded (CNN-News18) Violent incidents in the name of language are ceasing to die down, as yet another person was assaulted, allegedly by Raj Thackerays MNS workers, for not speaking Marathi. A video of the incident, which occurred in Maharashtras Nanded, has surfaced, showing a Marathi-speaking man confronting a Hindi-speaker and asking him to converse in the local language. Recommended Stories A public toilet attendant at Nandeds central bus stand charged women Rs 5 for using the facility. A Marathi man questioned this and recorded the exchange between the two. As he insisted that the attendant speak in Marathi, the latter said, I wont speak in Marathi. What will you do?" The man who shot the video also complained to the bus stand staff and then sent the footage to MNS workers, who, in turn, confronted the toilet attendant and slapped him. They forced him to publicly apologise for refusing to speak Marathi. The latest incident comes in a string of similar assaults in parts of Maharashtra, allegedly by MNS workers. The party has had a long-standing campaign of the use of Marathi in public spaces in Maharashtra. The violence in the name of language has seen a significant rise in recent weeks. A shopkeeper in Mumbai was assaulted on camera for not speaking in Marathi. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all An auto-rickshaw driver in Palghar was assaulted in public over his refusal to speak Marathi. Earlier on July 1, a street food vendor was slapped by the MNS workers for refusing to speak in the language. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More view comments Location : Nanded, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 22:10 IST News politics What Will You Do?: Hindi-Speaking Man Assaulted By MNS Workers For Refusing To Speak Marathi Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy iPhone 17 Air Launch In September: Design, Specs And Price Expected Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 07:30 IST iPhone 17 Air launch is widely awaited and we are not too far away from the big Apple iPhone launch event. iPhone 17 Air launch is widely expected along with the other models iPhone 17 series launch is widely expected in September and some reports have even suggested that Apple could unveil the new models on September 9 this year. The new lineup could have some interesting alterations, especially with focus on the rumoured iPhone 17 Air variant which might be similar to the Galaxy S25 Edge model from Samsung, focusing on a sleek design with premium finish. But this is Apple, and going by the noise around the iPhone 17 Air launch and its supposed features, the company could be putting a big bet on its premium badge at the back of this model. With the iPhone 17 launch not that far away, heres a detailed look at the iPhone 17 Air model and what it promises to bring to the market. Recommended Stories iPhone 17 Air Design The rumoured iPhone 17 Air is tipped to feature a slim design, which has become an unknown entity in the companys phone lineup these days. Apple could upstage these figures with the iPhone 17 Air and go for a 5.5mm frame with a device weighing under 150 grams. Reports say the slim or Air iPhone model will feature only a single camera at the back and front, and its biggest highlight is likely to be the aluminium slim design. The recent leaked images of the iPhone 17 Air model alongside the iPhone 16 Pro shows the difference in their size and these cutbacks should make it easy for Apple to pull through with the sleek design. iPhone 17 Air Specs The 17 Air version is heavily tipped to replace the Plus variant this year. It is expected to carry a 6.7-inch display which gives the right dimensions. The company should offer it with the latest A19 Pro chipset with 12GB RAM which makes it compatible with Apple AI features and Siri AI when it releases next year. For imaging, the iPhone 17 Air is tipped to come with a single rear camera and carry a really small battery pack. It seems the company is aware about the battery limitations, which is why it could bring a battery pack for this specific model, which means more money into its coffers. Accessories have become a big part of Apples business and this battery pack could be the icing on a costly cake. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all iPhone 17 Air Price With all these changes, a sleek body and aluminium finish, Apple is unlikely to go easy with the iPhone 17 Air price when it launches. Going by the market trends, we expect the new model to cost around Rs 1,20,999 for the base variant which puts it below the Pro models but slightly higher than the regular version. About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More Get latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:30 IST News tech iPhone 17 Air Launch In September: Design, Specs And Price Expected Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... WhatsApp On Windows 11 PC Is Losing Native App Support: What Happens Now? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 22, 2025, 14:33 IST WhatsApp web on Windows 11 is getting an overhaul from Meta that might get mixed views from the users. WhatsApp on Windows 11 is getting web-based overhaul WhatsApp on Windows 11 version is going to lose native app support and Meta has more or less confirmed this change with the latest beta update. The company is actually looking to replace the app with the web version of the messaging platform that many have used for years. In fact, Meta has rolled down the curtains for these changes with the latest WhatsApp beta version on Windows that says, updated how WhatsApp beta looks and works." This might sound like a minor alteration but Meta plans to change the dynamics that keeps WhatsApp running on Windows devices. Recommended Stories WhatsApp On Windows With Web Interface: What Changes The big change because of the move to web interface on WhatsApp will be evident when you start using the new version. The UI resembles that of the WhatsApp web platform and the company plans to bring more backend improvements to deliver a fast performance with less bugs facing the users. The decision to use the web version is basically being done so that Meta developers dont need to invest extra resources to maintain the native Windows app. The package within the web version will perform faster and the feature updates will be coming to users much quicker than before. Having said that, the whole purpose of bringing the WhatsApp native app for Windows was to make it run faster and consume less RAM on the system. The web version will need a Chrome, Edge or other browser to run the messaging app, which means more memory usage demands. If you have been using the WhatsApp native Windows app this change might feel drastic and take some time to adjust to the new version. However, those using the WhatsApp web will feel right at home with the new updated platform. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The latest Android beta update is the first version to come with WhatsApp ads, taking it one step closer to other Meta products like Instagram and Facebook. Users are seeing Status update ads in the beta version 2.25.21.11 that is available for select beta testers for now. Status update becomes the main hub for ads on WhatsApp and as you scroll through updates from different contacts, the messaging app will place an ad with a sponsored post label. About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More Get latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 22, 2025, 14:33 IST News tech WhatsApp On Windows 11 PC Is Losing Native App Support: What Happens Now? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbai Rains: Wall Collapse Sparks Landslide In Bhandup, Buildings Crumble Downhill | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 18:20 IST The video, recorded by locals and widely shared on social media, shows homes tumbling down the hillside as mud and debris slide rapidly The collapse brought down five houses built along the slope. (Screengrab via X) Heavy rains triggered a landslide in the Bhandup area of Mumbai after a large wall collapsed on a 50-foot hilltop behind Omega High School in Khindipada. The incident took place on Tuesday, and no injuries were reported. The collapse brought down five houses built along the slope. Footage of the dramatic incident was also caught on camera. Recommended Stories The video, recorded by locals and widely shared on social media, shows homes tumbling down the hillside as mud and debris slide rapidly. The landslide occurred suddenly, taking many by surprise. Some residents were seen escaping just moments before the collapse. Landslide Scare in BhandupHeavy rains triggered a wall collapse on a 50-ft hilltop in Khindipada, Bhandup (Mumbai) near Omega High School, bringing down five houses built along the slope. Footage of the incident, widely circulated on social media, captures the dramatic pic.twitter.com/vLp9J4dBCJ Social News Daily (@SocialNewsDail2) July 23, 2025 According to officials, continuous rainfall had weakened the protective retaining wall built around the hill. A visible crack developed in the structure, eventually leading to the collapse and the destruction of nearby houses. This mudslide in Bhandup should act as a warning sign," said Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad on X while sharing the video of the incident. Thankfully some of the houses here have already been evacuated. All necessary steps must be taken to prevent possible loss of life. Urge the authorities to be alert and audit any such vulnerable spots once again and ensure people are evacuated. Heavy rains have been predicted for today also, stay safe Mumbai," Gaikwad added. This mudslide in Bhandup should act as a warning sign. Thankfully some of the houses here have already been evacuated. All necessary steps must be taken to prevent possible loss of life. Urge the authorities to be alert and audit any such vulnerable spots once again and ensure pic.twitter.com/vAFTOHj3II Prof. Varsha Eknath Gaikwad (@VarshaEGaikwad) July 23, 2025 While emergency teams arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, no formal injuries or casualties were reported. Authorities have begun clearing debris and assessing the safety of nearby structures. City On Alert Amid Ongoing Rains The incident in Bhandup comes amid widespread heavy rainfall across Mumbai and neighbouring districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, warning of heavy to very heavy rain in isolated areas through Thursday. A red alert has also been issued for Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts. Mumbai recorded steady rainfall throughout Tuesday night and into Wednesday. Low-lying areas like the Andheri subway experienced waterlogging, while traffic was heavily affected on major roads, including the Eastern and Western Express Highways. According to the IMD, the downpour is a result of a low-pressure area forming over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify rainfall in Maharashtras Konkan region and ghat areas. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In the last 24 hours ending 8 am Wednesday, the citys island region recorded 47.77 mm of rain, with the eastern suburbs getting 33.10 mm and the western suburbs 53.92 mm. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google, News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: July 23, 2025, 18:19 IST News viral Mumbai Rains: Wall Collapse Sparks Landslide In Bhandup, Buildings Crumble Downhill | Watch Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... After 20 Chinese Killed In Pakistan In 4 Years, PM Sharif Now Promises Protection Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:23 IST Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif reviewed safety measures for Chinese citizens in CPEC projects. China urged Pakistan to act against militants after attacks on Chinese workers. Pakistan claimed that special security arrangements have been made for Chinese nationals, including security escort facilities for their travel. (Image: PTI/File) Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reviewed the safety arrangements of Chinese citizens who are involved in key projects, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Chinese citizens were targeted in Pakistan in several suicide attacks, of which many were claimed by groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in recent years. Recommended Stories Chairing a meeting on Tuesday, Sharif underlined that the confidence of Chinese companies in Pakistans economy is extremely" important for his countrys future. He said that the CPEC, which has now entered its second phase, is a crucial project for both countries, Dawn reported. Calling China a friendly country," the Pakistani premier said that the protection of Chinese citizens was a top priority of his government. Pakistan claimed that special security arrangements have been made for Chinese nationals, including security escort facilities for their travel. Attack On Chinese Nationals In Pakistan The ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was formally launched on April 20, 2015, when Pakistans Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chinas President Xi Jinping signed 51 agreements valued at around $46 billion. The CPEC is one of the largest investment schemes launched under the multi-billion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative. Thousands of Chinese citizens are working on project sites of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and major infrastructure projects across regions such as Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and have been frequently targeted in attacks launched reportedly by militants, the BLA and Pakistani Taliban. According to official data from Pakistans anti-terrorism body, the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), at least 20 Chinese nationals have been killed and 34 injured in 14 terrorist attacks across Pakistan since 2021. What China Said On These Attacks? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all China has increased diplomatic pressure on close ally Pakistan to take action against the militants responsible for repeated attacks on Chinese workers, warning these incidents pose a constraint" on Beijings investments under its Belt and Road Initiative. However, Pakistan, which is known to promote and breed terrorism, has done nothing concrete so far to stop such attacks. India has called out Pakistan on terrorism on global forums over the years, but China has always come to the rescue of its all-weather ally. About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19 Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:23 IST News world After 20 Chinese Killed In Pakistan In 4 Years, PM Sharif Now Promises Protection Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Working With UK: India Responds To Report Of Wrong Bodies Sent To Air India Victims Families Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 16:25 IST Some families of British victims of the Air India crash reportedly received wrongly identified remains. However, no similar repatriation errors were reported by families in India. Wreckage of the Air India plane that crashed moments after taking off from the Ahmedabad airport (Photo: PTI) India on Wednesday responded to a UK media report where British families of the Air India crash alleged that they received the wrong bodies of their loved ones killed in the June 12 tragedy. Indias Ministry of External Affairs said that Indian authorities are continuing to work with their counterparts in the UK on addressing these concerns. Recommended Stories MEAs Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, We have seen the report and have been working closely with the UK side from the moment these concerns and issues were brought to our attention. In the wake of the tragic crash, the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements." He said that all mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased. We are continuing to work with the UK authorities on addressing any concerns related to this issue," he added. Families of British Air India crash victims were sent wrong bodies, while some received commingled remnants of more than one person killed in the June 12 incident, the Daily Mail has claimed, even though no such blunder was reported in India. According to the report, some families have claimed the bodies of their loved ones were wrongly identified before being flown to their country. In some cases, families also received commingled remnants of more than one person, which had to be separated before the internment could go ahead. Two instances of mistaken identity have so far come to light, according to the report. It claimed the revelation was made after Inner West London coroner Dr Fiona Wilcox sought to verify the identities of the repatriated Britons by matching their DNA with samples provided by the families. Quoting aviation lawyer James Healy-Pratt, who represents many of the British families, the report stated that at least 12 of the British victims of the Air India crash were repatriated. Pratt told the publication that his team was waiting for a formal response from Air India and its emergency response contractors, Kenyons International Emergency Services, on the same. Air India Crash Air India flight AI 171, operated with Boeing 787-8, en route to London Gatwick, crashed soon after takeoff from Ahmedabad on June 12, killing 241 of the 242 passengers onboard and another 19 on the ground. All victims were identified, and their bodies were handed over to the families for the last rites. On Tuesday, Air India said it has completed the precautionary" inspection of the locking mechanism of the fuel control switch (FCS) on its Boeing 787 and 737 aircraft fleet, and no issues were found. Aviation safety regulator DGCA last week directed airlines to inspect the fuel switch locking system in their Boeing 787 and 737 planes by July 21 after the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) said in its preliminary report that fuel switches were cut off before the Air India plane crash last month. In its preliminary report on the Boeing 787-8 crash, AAIB said the fuel supply to both engines of the plane was cut off within a gap of one second, causing confusion in the cockpit soon after takeoff. Boeing 787s are part of Air Indias fleet, while B737s are operated by its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express. Besides these, other domestic carriers, IndiGo, Spicejet and Akasa, also have these types of aircraft in their operations. With this, the two airlines, Air India and Air India Express, have complied with the directives of the DGCA issued on July 14, Air India said in the statement. In 2018, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flagged the potential disengagement of the fuel control switch locking feature on certain models of Boeing aircraft, including 787s and 737s. It was mentioned in a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB), but there was no airworthiness directive, indicating that the issue was not a safety concern. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Air India has a total of 33 wide-body Boeing 787s, while Air India Express has around 75 narrow-body 737s. ALSO READ | Air India In Talks For $200 Million Bank Loan to Fund Boeing 777 Purchase: Report About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:37 IST News world Working With UK: India Responds To Report Of Wrong Bodies Sent To Air India Victims Families Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Police in Matabeleland South have arrested two men for allegedly smuggling 200 kilograms of dagga into Zimbabwe from South Africa through the Beitbridge Border Post.Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Chiratidzo Dube, confirmed the arrest of 26-year-old Benjamin Mutezo from Bulawayo and 39-year-old Jelous Moyo from Beitbridge in connection with the case.The suspects were apprehended on July 20, 2025, at around 2:30 PM after detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in Beitbridge received a tip-off about a Honda Fit vehicle believed to be transporting a large quantity of dagga. The contraband was reportedly being moved from the Forit area to a house in the Yellow Houses suburb of Beitbridge."Detectives waylaid the said Honda Fit, registration number AEY 1813, and intercepted it," said Insp Dube. "The second accused was driving the vehicle while the first accused was seated in the front passenger seat. A search was conducted, leading to the recovery of dagga packed in black and white plastics, stashed in carrier bags."Both suspects were immediately arrested and taken to the police station for further investigation.During questioning, Mutezo reportedly admitted to having purchased the dagga in South Africa for resale in Bulawayo. He said he had hired Moyo to assist in transporting the illegal substance to his uncle's house in Beitbridge, where part of the consignment had already been delivered.Police said the suspects then led detectives to the house, where an additional 100 kilograms of dagga were recovered, bringing the total weight of the seized contraband to approximately 200 kilograms.Insp Dube said investigations are ongoing and warned the public against engaging in drug trafficking and smuggling activities, which remain serious criminal offences under Zimbabwean law. Couple Arrested For Having Sex Mid-Air Inside Florida-Bound Flight In Front Of Two Children Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 23:22 IST Trista and Christopher were performing sexual acts mid-flight in their seats aboard a Florida-bound JetBlue flight. Danbury residents 43-year-old Trista L. Reilly and 42-year-old Christopher Drew Arnold were arrested for performing sexual acts mid-flight in their seats aboard a Florida-bound JetBlue flight. (IMAGE: X/Sarasota County Sheriff's Office) A couple from the US state of Connecticut was arrested after two children allegedly watched them perform sexual acts mid-flight in their seats inside a Florida-bound flight on Saturday. Danbury residents 43-year-old Trista L. Reilly and 42-year-old Christopher Drew Arnold were arrested after they exited the JetBlue flight which took off from New York and was headed to Sarasota, Florida, according to US-based news outlet WWSB. Recommended Stories The mother of the children informed the flight attended that her children witnessed two other passengers engaging in sexual activity in their seats. Authorities told WWSB that the flight attendant was directed to the area where Reilly and Arnold were sitting and the attendant witnessed Reilly making up-and-down movements with her head while she was face down on Mr. Arnolds lap". In the witness, the mother of the children said that even after the couple realized the two children were watching they didnt stop", according to a separate report by the CT Post. The two children then confirmed their accusations and told authorities that they directly observed the sexual acts. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The couple was arrested after the plane landed at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport around 11:30am Saturday morning (local time). Reilly and Christopher were charged with felony counts of lewd or lascivious exhibition in the presence of minors. Court records show they were released without bail and are due to be arraigned on August 15. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Sarasota, Florida First Published: July 23, 2025, 23:22 IST News world Couple Arrested For Having Sex Mid-Air Inside Florida-Bound Flight In Front Of Two Children Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Going Back Means Death: Fate of Afghans Promised US Resettlement Hangs In The Balance Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:52 IST Afghans who assisted US troops in their 2-decade presence in Afghanistan were promised a resettlement in the United States for a better life, however, their future hangs in limbo. Afghans promised US resettlement fear repatriation (AFP Image) The lives of over 250,000 Afghans who worked with the US forces in Afghanistan and were promised resettlement in the United States hang in limbo as the Trump administration is rolling back programmes that were created to assist them, according to a report. Those Afghans live in fear that if they are sent back to Afghanistan, they could face retribution from the ruling Taliban, The Washington Post reported. Recommended Stories Such repatriation efforts have already been set in motion in the United Arab Emirates, according to cables obtained by the US media outlet. The Afghans who are living in fear include a woman whose husband the Taliban regime assassinated after he was found fighting alongside the US military, a man who worked with NATO in Afghanistan and then went on to spend around a year like a prisoner" in Qatar, among thousands of others waiting in Afghanistan and 90 other countries. They were promised the possibility of a new life in the US after they worked with the US forces. Since President Donald Trump returned to office, the US has stopped processing refugees and cut government funding for Afghan flights through two executive orders. Officials said that this month, the State Department also laid off staff and shut down the office that helped Afghans move to the US. Moving back to Afghanistan would be my own death sentence", one Afghan in the UAE said, The Washington Post reported. I am not insisting that I must be taken to the United States. My only wish is, please do not hand me over to my executioners," he said on the condition of anonymity due to fear of retaliation from the Taliban. An official described internal deliberations and said, Wherever they end up, they end up. They are now another countrys problem." The White House denied that the Trump administration does not care about the fate of such Afghans who helped the US military. Trump said on Truth Social over the weekend that he would try to save" Afghans who are facing repatriation in the UAE. A senior administration official, who spoke anonymously about internal decisions, said the changes to how Afghan refugees are handled are meant to make sure the US only takes in people the government considers truly deserving. The official added that the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program is still processing about 900 cases each week. SIVs are designed to help Afghans who faced serious danger because they worked with the US. As of May 20, around 167,000 of the more than 250,000 Afghans eligible for resettlement were SIV applicants, the report said, citing a document. During the 20 years of US militarys presence in Afghanistan, American troops depended heavily on Afghan locals who worked as interpreters, soldiers, doctors, and civil society workers, among other roles. In 2006, the US created a legal way for these Afghans to move to America to lead a better and safer life. Since the Taliban retook full control in 2021, nearly 195,000 Afghans have been resettled in the US, according to Jessica Bradley Rushing, who was recently laid off as deputy director for communications and engagement at the State Departments Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE). When Trump retuned to office on January 20, 2025, over 250,000 Afghans across 90 countries were eligible for resettlement in the US, Rushing said. According to a State Department report dated May 20, the exact number stands at 269,124. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The State Department did not respond when asked if it had approved deportations from the UAE to Afghanistan, The Washington Post reported. The Taliban has, however, said that it welcomes the return of Afghans who are no longer eligible to stay abroad. About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:52 IST News world Going Back Means Death: Fate of Afghans Promised US Resettlement Hangs In The Balance Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Idaho Students Killer Bryan Kohberger Gets Life In Prison; Trump Says 'Judge Should've...' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 23:47 IST Donald Trump had weighed in saying that the judge should make Bryan Kohberger answer why he committed the murders. Bryan Kohberger, 30, appears for his sentencing hearing after he was convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four Idaho college students, at the Ada County Courthouse, in Boise, Idaho, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Bryan Kohberger, the University of Idaho Ph.D student, who murdered four Idaho college students, was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole on Wednesday by judge Steven Hippler at an Idaho court. Kohberger declined a chance to address the court and explain his motives, according to a blog post by the New York Times. Recommended Stories Judge Hippler said Kohberger was a coward" who had slithered" into a home in Moscow, Idaho and fatally stabbed Kaylee Goncalves (21), Madison Mogen (21), Xana Kernodle (20) and Ethan Chapin, (20). He had no known relationship to the victims. The 30-year-old also stabbed Dylan Mortensen, who survived the attack. Because of him, four beautiful, genuine, compassionate people were taken from this world for no reason," Mortensen was quoted as saying by the newspaper. Judge Steven Hippler handed down four life sentences, saying they would run consecutively. The kin of the deceased lashed out at Kohberger inside the court and said that they hoped he would face violence in jail and calling him a coward and a failure. Randy Davis, the stepfather of one of the victims, told him to go to hell". Kohberger agreed to four consecutive life sentences as part of a plea deal that allows him to avoid execution for the fatal stabbing of the four University of Idaho students early on November 13, 2022. Even President Donald Trump weighed in on the sentencing of Bryan Kohberger, the man convicted of murdering four University of Idaho students. In a post on social media, Trump wrote, I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING." White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed his sentiment at a briefing in Washington, saying, If it were up to the president, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls." But when given the opportunity to speak in court on Wednesday, Kohberger simply leaned forward and said, I respectfully decline." From the courtroom gallery, a family member of one of the victims responded aloud: Coward." Kohberger, a Ph.D. student at nearby Washington State University, was not identified as a suspect for several weeks. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Investigators used DNA from a knife sheath found at the crime scene to build a genetic family tree that eventually led to him. His background in criminology quickly drew public attention as he had studied high-profile murders and worked under an expert in serial killers. Text messages revealed that in the hours following the killings, the surviving roommates discussed seeing a masked person inside the house. However, they appeared unaware that a quadruple homicide had taken place. It wasnt until more than seven hours later, after other friends arrived, that a 911 call was placed. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Ada County, Idaho First Published: July 23, 2025, 23:47 IST News world Idaho Students Killer Bryan Kohberger Gets Life In Prison; Trump Says 'Judge Should've...' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... ISI-Khalistan Drug Nexus In Canada: A Geopolitical Crime Engine, Warn Intelligence Sources Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 13:56 IST Pakistan ISI is believed to have designed and now oversees a sophisticated narco-terrorism funding pipeline. Peel Regional Police seized 479 kilograms of cocaine valued at $47.9 million and arrested nine individuals. (Image: X/Peel Police) The ISIKhalistan drug nexus has evolved beyond a security threat into a multi-billion-dollar geopolitical industry, top intelligence sources have warned. These operations weaponise narcotics trafficking, diaspora politics, and Western legal loopholes to undermine India and its allies. According to intelligence officials, this syndicate is now acting as a powerful transnational cartel franchise under the strategic direction of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). ISI is believed to have designed and now oversees a sophisticated narco-terrorism funding pipeline. Intelligence sources assert this pipeline links Afghan heroin and Mexican cocaine through Canadian Khalistani extremists, using the proceeds to fund anti-India activities such as arms procurement, propaganda campaigns, and lobbying. Recommended Stories Major Drug Busts Reveal the Networks Scale A major breakthrough came during Project Pelican, where Canadian police seized 479 kilograms of Mexican cocaine worth $47.9 million. Intelligence officials confirmed the shipment was routed via USCanada trucking networks, facilitated by Khalistani operatives acting on ISI guidance. In 2023, Canadian authorities busted the Randhawa Super-Lab in British Columbia. Intelligence sources revealed the $485 million facility was producing fentanyl, meth, and cocaine at industrial scale comparable to Mexican cartel operations. The lab was capable of producing 95 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. RCMP investigators linked the lab to Khalistani networks, operating under the pretext of political activism. Criminal Fronts with Political Camouflage One key figure identified by intelligence is Surrey-based gangster Opinder Sian, closely associated with pro-Khalistan groups. Sian allegedly ran a global methamphetamine network, importing Chinese chemical precursors via Peng Zhou, manufacturing in Canada, and exporting through Los Angeles. Intelligence sources revealed his collaboration with Irish, Italian, and Mexican cartels created a global narco-web. Afghan heroin, smuggled by ISI handlers, is being funneled through Khalistani networks in Canada. Intelligence inputs indicate these profits are used not only to fund Khalistan secessionist activities but also to support Taliban operations, forming a dual-purpose destabilisation model targeting both India and NATO interests. Canadas Infrastructure and Laws Enable the Nexus Intelligence reports highlight that Vancouver ports receiving large volumes of Chinese goods are central to this pipeline. Punjabi gangs dominate the trucking routes across the US border and exploit Canadas liberal laws protecting extremist speech to maintain cover. Intelligence assessments indicate that narcotics proceeds are laundered through a combination of real estate investments, gurdwara donations, separatist referendums, and protest events. The 2024 unveiling of a Tamil Eelam monument in Brampton was cited as an example of how extremist fundraising masquerades as ethnic activism. Political Shielding and Transnational Laundering The laundering infrastructure in Vancouver and Toronto includes underground banking, cash-heavy logistics firms, and family-run businesses tied to extremist ideologies. Cross-border trucking dominated by Punjabi cartels facilitates the movement of drugs and arms, with secure storage hubs in Toronto and Windsor. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Intelligence agencies have also flagged ISI-linked financiers such as Haji Salim, a Dawood Ibrahim aide, as key intermediaries routing funds to both Khalistani and Tamil separatist groups. Political cover is allegedly secured by figures like Bilal Cheema, who, sources claim, has funneled money to Canadian politicians to shield the criminal-separatist alliance. According to top intelligence sources, pro-Khalistan lobbyists exploit Liberal Party patronage and immigration loopholes, embedding this ideological-criminal hybrid deep into Canadas political and economic ecosystem. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:56 IST News world ISI-Khalistan Drug Nexus In Canada: A Geopolitical Crime Engine, Warn Intelligence Sources Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... New Russian Law To Punish VPN Users, Track Search History For 'Extremist' Content Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 23:03 IST To define what constitutes 'extremist' content, the Ministry of Justice has released a list of over 500 pages. The legislation is part of a broader crackdown on digital freedoms in the country (Pexels/Representative Image) In a move to tighten internet censorship, Russia is working on a controversial new law that would punish individuals for searching online for extremist content. The legislation was approved by the State Duma, the lower house of Russias parliament, on July 22, and is now headed to the Federation Council for review, according to a report by Reuters. Once cleared, it will be sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin for final approval and is expected to come into effect on September 1. According to the Russian government, the law targets individuals who intentionally seek out banned or extremist content online, including those who use virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass existing internet restrictions. The legislation is part of a broader crackdown on digital freedoms in the country. Recommended Stories To define what constitutes extremist content, the Ministry of Justice has released a list of over 500 pages including topics deemed illegal. This includes references to Alexei Navalnys Anti-Corruption Foundation, the international LGBTQ+ movement, content supporting Ukraine, songs glorifying Ukrainian resistance, and even links to Meta Platforms, which operates Facebook and Instagram, both banned in Russia. Individuals found violating the new law by searching for restricted content may face fines ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles. Those found advertising or distributing VPN services could be fined 50,000 to 500,000 roubles. This legislation is the latest step in Russias growing efforts to control the internet. Since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian authorities have banned or limited access to several social media platforms and foreign tech companies. Under the new law, law enforcement agencies would also have the authority to monitor users search history and data from internet providers and mobile operators. Earlier, President Putin had called for restrictions on software and tech products from unfriendly countries," sparking fears that popular apps like WhatsApp could soon be banned. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The law has faced backlash from the public and opposition lawmakers. In the State Duma, 14.9% of lawmakers voted against the bill, while 22 abstained signaling internal dissent. Critics warn that the vague definition of extremist content leaves room for abuse and could be expanded at the governments discretion. Still, Sergei Boyarsky, head of the Dumas information technology committee, defended the legislation. The Business Day cited him saying, This bill concerns a narrow group of people who look for extremist content because they are already one step away from extremism." Location : Moscow, Russia First Published: July 23, 2025, 23:02 IST News world New Russian Law To Punish VPN Users, Track Search History For 'Extremist' Content Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 22:10 IST PM Modi UK Visit LIVE Updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to the United Kingdom, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. The highlight of PM Modis visit will be the signing of the India-UK FTA, which has been under negotiation for three years. This agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99 percent of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90 percent of British products. The FTA is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, from the current $60 billion mark. It will also make it easier for British firms to export products like whisky and cars to India. PM Modi will also hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance. After Posting About Dispute With Indian Staffer, Singapore Entrepreneur Dies; Cops Call It Unnatural Death Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 08:40 IST Jane said that the worker claimed she slipped and fell on an escalator while disposing of trash. However, Jane believed the fall was not real. The exact cause of her death has not yet been confirmed. (Facebook/@SumoSaladHV) Jane Lee, the owner of Sumo Salad located in Holland Village, Singapore, passed away on July 19. Her death came just one day after she posted on Facebook about a stressful experience with one of her employees. The Singapore Police Force is treating the case as an unnatural death" and has launched an investigation. The exact cause of her death has not yet been confirmed. On July 18, Jane wrote two emotional Facebook posts where she expressed frustration and disappointment. She claimed that an Indian employee, Sran Kiranjeet Kaur, had staged a fake accident in order to make a false injury claim and get compensation. According to Jane, the woman had only two days left in her work contract when the incident happened. Recommended Stories Jane said that the worker claimed she slipped and fell on an escalator while disposing of trash. However, Jane believed the fall was not real. She said the worker was supposed to leave work early that day but stayed back on purpose, suggesting it was part of a plan to fake the injury. I never imagined someone could go to such lengths and be so dishonest just for money," Jane wrote in one of her posts. Her words reflected how deeply the situation had affected her. The next day, news of Janes sudden death shocked many people in Singapores business community and beyond. The police are still trying to determine what exactly happened and if her death is connected in any way to the stress she described online. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This tragic event has raised concerns about workplace conflicts, mental health, and the pressures small business owners face, especially when dealing with legal and staffing issues. The investigation is ongoing. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:23 IST News world After Posting About Dispute With Indian Staffer, Singapore Entrepreneur Dies; Cops Call It Unnatural Death Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Terror Haven, Serial Borrower': India Slams Pakistan At UNSC Over Kashmir, Water Treaty Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 08:24 IST India reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and any attempt to question its sovereignty is unacceptable. India's fresh push in the UNSC for sanctioning TRF following the Pahalgam attack represents a key test of the international community's commitment against terrorism. File pic/AP India strongly rebutted Pakistans renewed attempt to internationalise the Kashmir issue and raise objections over the Indus Waters Treaty at the United Nations Security Council. Responding to Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dars remarks, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, called out Pakistans duplicity on issues of terrorism and international peace. Dar, while addressing the UNSC, claimed that Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory" and termed Indias recent moves on the Indus Waters Treaty regrettable and unjustified." He urged the UN to push for a resolution of the Kashmir issue based on what he described as relevant Security Council resolutions. Recommended Stories India hit back sharply. In his statement, Ambassador Harish underscored the stark contrast between the two nations. On one hand, there is India a matured democracy, a surging economy, a pluralistic and inclusive society. At the other extreme is Pakistan, steeped in fanaticism and terrorism, and a serial borrower from the IMF," he said. #IndiaAtUNPR @AmbHarishP delivered s statement at the @UN Security Council High Level Open Debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes. @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/A3jp6ojkJy India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) July 22, 2025 He further added that as the Council discusses peace and security, it must universally uphold the principle of zero tolerance for terrorism. It ill behoves the member of the Council to offer homilies while indulging in practices that are unacceptable to the international community," he remarked, in a direct reference to Pakistans record on sponsoring terrorism. India reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and any attempt to question its sovereignty is unacceptable. It also emphasised that the Indus Waters Treaty, a longstanding bilateral agreement, is not a matter for international arbitration unless Pakistan first addresses violations on its part. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This is not the first time Pakistan has attempted to use international platforms to raise the Kashmir issue. However, such efforts have largely failed to gather traction, with most global powers recognising the matter as bilateral. Indias firm and composed response reinforces its image on the global stage as a responsible democracy focused on growth and peace, while exposing Pakistans continued reliance on diversionary tactics. About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com as Chief Sub-Editor since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, includ... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:01 IST News world 'Terror Haven, Serial Borrower': India Slams Pakistan At UNSC Over Kashmir, Water Treaty Row Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump Admin Probes Harvard Over Student Exchange Program: 'National Interest First' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 22:00 IST The US State Department is investigating Harvard's eligibility to host foreign exchange visitors in the J-1 program. Donald Trump has escalated his crackdown on US universities. (File image/Reuters) The US State Department launched an investigation into Harvard Universitys eligibility to host foreign exchange visitors, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced, marking the latest escalation in US President Donald Trumps campaign against elite universities. To maintain their privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, sponsors must comply with all regulations, including conducting their programs in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States," Marco Rubio said, adding, The investigation will ensure that State Department programs do not run contrary to our nations interests." Recommended Stories The inquiry targets Harvards participation in the J-1 exchange visitor program, which allows foreign students, scholars and researchers to study or work temporarily in the US. While the specifics of the alleged violations remain undisclosed, the White House accused Harvard of harboring radical left" and antisemitic ideologies and failing to protect Jewish students on campus. Donald Trump Vs Harvard top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Since returning to the White House in January, Donald Trump has used federal funding and regulatory scrutiny to assert control over higher education institutions which he views as hostile to conservative values. Harvard, the oldest and wealthiest university in the country, has become a primary target. Earlier this year, the administration canceled hundreds of federal research grants at Harvard, claiming the school failed to adequately address complaints of antisemitic harassment. Officials have also threatened to revoke its accreditation, restrict international student visas and investigate alleged civil rights violations. A separate move by the Department of Education opened national origin discrimination investigations into five universities: the University of Louisville, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Miami, University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. The department said it would assess whether these institutions offered scholarships exclusively to students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or other undocumented students, potentially violating federal law. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 23, 2025, 22:00 IST News world Trump Admin Probes Harvard Over Student Exchange Program: 'National Interest First' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Donald Trump Eyes Kingmaker Role In 2026 Midterms, Will Vet Candidates, Plan Fundraisers Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 00:00 IST Trump is banking heavily on the success of his newly passed tax and spending legislation. Behind the scenes, Trump is expected to wield significant influence over GOP candidate selection (Reuters Image) US President Donald Trump has already begun laying the groundwork for a major push in the 2026 midterm elections. According to US broadcaster ABC News, a senior White House official confirmed Trumps direct involvement in the Republican Partys strategy, including fundraising, recruitment, and campaign planning. The Presidents goal is clear: to maintain the GOP majority in both chambers of Congress during the final two years of his presidency. Behind the scenes, Trump is expected to wield significant influence over GOP candidate selection. The report said he will back loyalists and block Republicans who have previously opposed or criticised him. The White House is also working to persuade key Republican lawmakers to stay in their current roles and avoid retirement or bids for other offices. Recommended Stories According to the White House source, Trump and key members of his Cabinet plan to tour major swing states to build support for the legislation and the broader Republican agenda. Vice President JD Vance has already kicked off early campaigning, recently appearing in Pennsylvania to promote the bill. Trump is banking heavily on the success of his newly passed tax and spending legislation, dubbed the Big Beautiful Bill, to power the GOP to victory. The bill was signed into law during this years Fourth of July celebrations at the White House, where Trump declared it as the biggest tax cut in the history of our country." The bill slashes funding for government programs such as Medicaid while boosting support for immigration enforcement. It also expands the child tax credit, which Trump hopes will appeal to working-class voters. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The bills political effectiveness is already being tested on the campaign trail. Gubernatorial candidates in Virginia and New Jersey are promoting the law with tailored messaging, allowing the GOP to assess which strategy resonates best with voters ahead of 2026. Additionally, Republican strategists are in the process of creating new fundraising vehicles to support GOP candidates nationwide. The Presidents inner circle is currently seeking a strong candidate for the New Hampshire Senate seat, following former Governor Chris Sununus decision not to run. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 24, 2025, 00:00 IST News world Donald Trump Eyes Kingmaker Role In 2026 Midterms, Will Vet Candidates, Plan Fundraisers Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter The curtain is set to fall on a music journey as Zimbabwean icon Thomas Mapfumo, fondly known as "The Lion of Zimbabwe," prepares to retire from live performances. A farewell show slated for August 23rd in Birmingham, United Kingdom, will mark the official end of a groundbreaking career that has spanned more than five decades.Mapfumo, the undisputed pioneer of Chimurenga music, has been a powerful voice for social and political change, fusing traditional Shona rhythms with modern sounds to create a genre that became the soundtrack of Zimbabwe's liberation struggle and post-independence era. His music gave voice to the oppressed and celebrated the cultural identity of the nation, earning him both admiration and controversy.Known affectionately as "Mukanya," Mapfumo's influence stretches far beyond Zimbabwe's borders. His lyrical defiance, often critical of political and social injustice, saw him exiled during Robert Mugabe's rule, but it also cemented his status as a cultural hero among Zimbabweans both at home and in the diaspora.As the Birmingham farewell concert draws near, tributes have poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and cultural commentators who describe Mapfumo's contribution as unmatched in shaping Zimbabwe's music and national consciousness. The show is expected to feature a stellar lineup of top Zimbabwean artists, all coming together to honour one of the country's greatest musical exports.Organisers say the event will be more than a concert - it will be a celebration of a lifetime dedicated to truth, resistance, and rhythm. From the revolutionary chants of Hokoyo to the soulful laments of Shumba, Mapfumo's catalogue has told the Zimbabwean story like no other.As he steps away from the stage, Mapfumo leaves behind a legacy that is both politically powerful and musically rich. Though he may no longer perform, his music - filled with wisdom, pride, and unflinching courage - will remain an eternal force.To Mukanya, the world says thank you - for the voice, the vision, and the unmatched contribution to African music and global consciousness. UK Woman Dies After Being Licked By Granddaughter's Dog: Here's What Happened Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 17:14 IST June Baxter, 83, from Norfolk, died from sepsis after her granddaughter's dog licked a wound on her leg. The woman passed away on July 7. (Image Credit: X) An 83-year-old woman from Norfolk died from sepsis after a domestic dog licked a wound on her leg. June Baxter, described as very frail" but independent and determined," sustained a leg injury on June 29 while using a commode at her home in Attleborough. The wound was later licked by her granddaughters dog, which ultimately caused a fatal infection, according to testimony presented at Norfolk Coroners Court. The inquest concluded that June Baxter died as a result of an accidental infection caused by pasteurella multocida- a bacterium commonly found in the mouths of domestic animals, including dogs. Coroner Johanna Thompson said, Mrs Baxter was in frail health. On 29 June she was found to have injured her leg at her home. On the following day she reported feeling unwell; she was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital where she was diagnosed with an infection which was subsequently identified to be arising from a domestic dog lick." Recommended Stories Paramedics initially treated the wound at her home, repositioning damaged skin and dressing the cut but June Baxters condition deteriorated rapidly. She was admitted to hospital the following day, where blood tests confirmed the presence of pasteurella multocida. Despite treatment, June Baxter Baxter developed severe symptoms of sepsis and died on July 7. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Secondary causes of death included pre-existing kidney, liver and heart conditions, the court was told. June Baxters granddaughter, Caitlan Allin- her primary caregiver- arrived after the injury occurred, at which point her dog licked the open wound. Coroner Thompson formally recorded a conclusion of accidental death. Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: July 23, 2025, 17:14 IST News world UK Woman Dies After Being Licked By Granddaughter's Dog: Here's What Happened Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UPI, FTA, Rs 30-Billion Swap Line: Indias Big Plans For PM Modis Maldives Trip As Ties Reset Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 10:52 IST Describing the turnaround in ties, foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Tuesday termed it 'a question of working hard at a relationship' Muizzu's bilateral visit last October resulted in a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was seen as the two nations considering the row as history. File pic/Reuters Its a question of working hard at a relationship," said foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Tuesday, describing the turnaround in relations with the Maldives since 2024, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis two-day trip to the archipelagic country this week. Recommended Stories New Delhi outlined several initiatives for the PMs trip, including an attempt to introduce UPI in the Maldives to boost tourism from India, a Rs 30-billion Indian swap line in progress, a free trade agreement under discussion, and a possible announcement regarding the MNDF (Maldives National Defence Force) building. This marks a significant change from 2024, when diplomatic relations had hit rock bottom. There will always be events that impact or try to intrude on the relationship. But this is testimony to the kind of attention paid to the relationship, including at the highest levels. Weve continued to work at it, and the results are visible. Weve also had close discussions with our partners in the Maldives to provide clarity and assurances about our bilateral intentions, and the results are evident," Misri said. The Maldives has been facing a stressful financial environment, and India is assisting it. Our recent assistance has improved the foreign exchange position of the Maldives, which has been cited by international financial organisations, including the IMF, as a positive factor that has helped the Maldives avoid difficult outcomes. My understanding is that the $400 million swap line has been almost completely utilised, and now the 30 billion rupee Indian swap line might also be drawn upon," Misri added. The foreign secretary mentioned that significant work has been done on the MNDF building project, and an announcement could be made soon. The Prime Ministers visit to the Maldives will be on July 25-26 at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. Muizzu was on a state visit to India in October 2024 and had previously attended the swearing-in ceremony of the new Modi government. PM Modi will hold bilateral meetings with the Maldives President and inaugurate some infrastructure projects. The Prime Minister will be the guest of honour at the celebrations commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Maldives independence on July 26, 2025. Coincidentally, 2025 also marks the 60th anniversary of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. This is Modis first state visit hosted by President Muizzu since he took office in November 2023. The PM has visited the Maldives in 2018 and 2019. The Maldives is a crucial partner in Indias Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision. Misri highlighted how India has always responded promptly to the Maldives needs in times of crisis, whether natural or manmade. Last year, Modi and Muizzu adopted a joint vision for an India-Maldives comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership. This joint vision guides our relations, and this year, in just the first six months, weve seen nearly half a dozen ministerial-level visits from the Maldives," Misri said. India is one of the Maldives largest trading partners, with bilateral trade nearing $500 million. Both countries are negotiating a free trade agreement and an investment treaty. New areas of cooperation, including renewable energy and fisheries, are also being explored," Misri said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The flagship project currently underway is the Greater Male Connectivity Project, which could be a game changer for infrastructure in the Greater Male region, connecting four islands. Other ongoing projects include roads, airports, and fisheries processing units. We are also alleviating pressure by helping with social housing based on the Maldives needs and priorities," said the foreign secretary. Twin currency swap arrangements were made when President Muizzu visited India in 2024, amounting to 400 million US dollars and 30 billion Indian rupees. Additionally, the State Bank of India has continued to re-subscribe to Maldives treasury bills," Misri said. About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:33 IST News world UPI, FTA, Rs 30-Billion Swap Line: Indias Big Plans For PM Modis Maldives Trip As Ties Reset Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Whenever We Dial, India Responds First': Ex-Maldives Minister On Diplomatic Ties Ahead Of PM Visit Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 22:32 IST PM Narendra Modi is travelling to the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu in what is being seen as a breakthrough in diplomatic ties after a spell of frostiness A year after diplomatic tensions with India, the Maldives is all set to welcome PM Narendra Modi for a State Visit on July 25 and 26. (Image: PTI/File) A year after diplomatic tensions with India, the Maldives is all set to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a State Visit on July 25 and 26. Expressing hope that this will turn things around, a former minister has praised New Delhi for being the first to respond whenever his country asks for help. Modi is travelling to the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu in what is being seen as a breakthrough in the ties between the two countries following a spell of frostiness. He will join the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the independence of the Maldives. Recommended Stories Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid noted India was always the first responder to the Maldives because Indians have a big heart". He said despite the tensions between the two countries, the rise in aid from India shows its maturity and generosity. The relationship between the Maldives and India has always demonstrated that India is the first responder. Whenever we dial the international line, India responds first. It is for many reasons. First and foremost, because Indian people have a big heart and they are always ready to assist the Maldives in the neighbourhood, they are most generous," Shahid said. He said India decided to keep the people-to-people relationship alive with the Maldives, with a thorough understanding that governments and political parties in power change but a solid foundation" cannot. India is so close to the Maldives geographically. Whenever anything of urgency and distress happens in the Maldives, India has never let us downthe increase in aid by the Indian government shows the generosity and maturity," he said. Shahid noted that it is important for the Maldives not to use its neighbours for its own political gains and respect its friends. It is important that we in the Maldives recognise that true friendship requires Maldivian political parties and leadership not to use our neighbouring countries as a punching bag for political convenience. The ground reality hits us quickly, easily and that is what we are seeing," he said. Modi, meanwhile, has expressed confidence that his visit to the Maldives will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting people and advancing Indias Neighbourhood First Policy. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. I look forward to my meetings with President Muizzu and other political leadership, to advance our joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, and to strengthen our cooperation for peace, prosperity and stability in the Indian Ocean Region," Modi said in a statement before he embarked on his four-day visit to the UK and Maldives. PMS VISIT WILL SET EVERYTHING RIGHT Shahid said it was unfortunate that there was a dip in tourism due to the diplomatic tensions between India and the Maldives. There is a huge market just next door to us. It is only natural that we tap into the economic boom that is taking place in India. It was unfortunate that there was a dip in Indian tourism around arrivals in the Maldives because of the diplomatic tensions. But I think the PMs visit this time will set everything right," he said. He said the current Maldivian government will recognise India as its genuine friend and both countries bear no ill will. The message that we are receiving shows that the current Maldivian government is ready to recognise the ground reality that India is a genuine friend and that India will always work to the greater good of its neighbours and there is no ill-will on the part of anyone. I am hopeful and I look forward to this visit by the PM to be a new beginning, a way to further consolidate the relationship between our two countries," he added. He further expressed contentment at the thawing of frozen ties between the two countries. He said the strain was due to an incorrect narrative of the current government. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all I am delighted by the PMs visit. The PMs visit this time goes beyond symbolism because the PM is making a State Visit coinciding with the 60th anniversary of our independence. He is going to be the guest of honour for the celebrations. This goes beyond symbolism because recently we have had very unfortunate diplomatic strain between the Maldives and India because of the narrative that the current government used during the elections," he added. (With agency inputs) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Male, Maldives First Published: July 23, 2025, 22:23 IST News world 'Whenever We Dial, India Responds First': Ex-Maldives Minister On Diplomatic Ties Ahead Of PM Visit Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... White House Announces Indonesia Trade Deal, Trump Calls It 'Huge Win' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 07:34 IST While the US will now sell American-made products to Indonesia at a zero tariff rate, Indonesia will pay 19% tariff on all of its products coming into the USA. US President Donald Trump (Reuters Image) The United States and the Republic of Indonesia on Wednesday agreed to a framework for negotiating an Agreement on Reciprocal Trade to strengthen bilateral economic ties, the White House said in a joint statement on Tuesday. Indonesia will eliminate approximately 99 percent of tariff barriers for a full range of US industrial and US food and agricultural products exported to Indonesia," according to the statement released by the White House. Recommended Stories While the United States of America will now sell American-made products to Indonesia at a zero tariff rate, Indonesia will pay 19 percent tariff on all of its products coming into the USA. The White House also stated that the two countries will negotiate facilitative rules of origin to ensure that the benefits of the agreement accrue primarily to the United States and Indonesia. Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, It is my Great Honor to announce our Trade Agreement with the Republic of Indonesia, as represented by their Highly Respected President, Prabowo Subianto. It is agreed that Indonesia will be Open Market to American Industrial and Tech Products, and Agricultural Goods, by eliminating 99% of their Tariff Barriers. The United States of America will now sell American-made products to Indonesia at a Tariff Rate of ZERO, while Indonesia will pay 19% on all of their products coming into the U.S.A. The Best Market in the World!" He further added that Indonesia will supply the United States with their precious critical minerals, as well as sign BIG Deals, worth Tens of Billions of Dollars, to purchase Boeing Aircraft, American Farm products, and American Energy. This Deal is a HUGE WIN for our Automakers, Tech Companies, Workers, Farmers, Ranchers, and Manufacturers. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" he added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The White House also noted that Indonesia will work to address barriers for US exports, including through the removal of import restrictions or licensing requirements on US remanufactured goods or their parts; the elimination of pre-shipment inspection or verification requirements on imports of US goods; and the adoption and implementation of good regulatory practices. In the weeks ahead, the United States and Indonesia will negotiate and finalise the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, prepare the Agreement for signature, and undertake domestic formalities in advance of the Agreement entering into force, the White House concluded. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 23, 2025, 07:18 IST News world White House Announces Indonesia Trade Deal, Trump Calls It 'Huge Win' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... WHO Alert: Chikungunya Virus Back After 20 Years, 560 Crore People At Risk | Prevention Tips Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: July 23, 2025, 14:32 IST Chikungunya resurfaces after 2 decades, with WHO warning millions across Asia and Europe now being at risk Chikungunya is primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during daylight hours and also transmit diseases such as dengue and Zika. (AI Generated/ News18 Hindi) In 2005, Chikungunya wreaked havoc across several countries, beginning in the Indian Ocean region and eventually affecting over half a million people. After seemingly fading away, the virus has now made a worrying comeback, prompting the World Health Organisation (WHO) to issue an urgent alert due to rapidly rising cases across Asia and Europe. 560 Crore People At Risk Worldwide Recommended Stories WHO Medical Officer Diana Rojas Alvarez has reportedly revealed that approximately 560 crore people across 119 countries are currently at risk. Chikungunya is transmitted by mosquitoes, especially those active during the rainy season. It can cause high fever, intense joint pain, and in rare cases, long-term disability. There is currently no vaccine available. Rapid Spread Mirrors 2005 Outbreak The 2025 surge has revived memories of the 2005 epidemic, which began on small islands such as La Reunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius. Today, up to 33% of La Reunions population has reportedly been infected. The virus has also spread to parts of Africa, including Madagascar, Somalia, and Kenya, with signs of epidemic growth in South-East Asia, particularly in India, where increased mosquito breeding during the monsoon season is heightening the threat. Europe Now Facing The Threat Health officials are especially concerned about the viruss spread into Europe, a region where Chikungunya was previously rare. This change is being attributed to global travel and climate change. Since May 1, France has reported around 800 cases, including 12 local transmissions, while Italy has also confirmed an infection. Aedes Mosquitoes: The Daytime Danger Chikungunya is primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during daylight hours and also transmit diseases such as dengue and Zika. These mosquitoes flourish in warm, humid conditions and are particularly difficult to control during rainy seasons. While many recover fully, joint pain can persist for weeks or even months. The elderly and those with existing health issues are at higher risk of complications. With no vaccine or cure currently available, the WHO stresses prevention as the best defence: Apply mosquito repellent Wear long-sleeved clothing Use mosquito nets Remove stagnant water around homes top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Global Call To Action The WHO has called on governments and health agencies worldwide to ramp up mosquito control, public awareness campaigns, and disease surveillance to avert a repeat of the 2000s crisis. Early action could be the key to preventing a global outbreak. First Published: July 23, 2025, 14:32 IST News world WHO Alert: Chikungunya Virus Back After 20 Years, 560 Crore People At Risk | Prevention Tips Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News / National by Staff reporter Allies of local business magnate Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei have launched a spirited defence of the controversial tycoon, following sharp criticism from Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa. The group, operating under the banner "Friends of Dr Tagwirei" and posting from the handle @ElderTagwirei, issued a strongly worded statement on Wednesday morning pushing back against what they labelled divisive attacks.The statement sought to distance Tagwirei from any suggestion of political ambition or subversion, reaffirming his loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling party. "Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei has never, at any point, attacked His Excellency the President or any member of the ZANU-PF leadership either directly or through proxies," the group declared. "His record speaks for itself: unwavering support for the President, consistent backing of ZANU-PF candidates, and tireless efforts to empower citizens through national programmes."Tagwirei, a prominent businessman with interests in energy, agriculture, and mining, has long been regarded as a powerful figure behind the scenes in Zanu-PF circles. His proximity to President Mnangagwa has drawn both admiration and controversy, with critics accusing him of wielding undue influence and benefitting from state-linked contracts.Tensions within the ruling party have recently escalated, with Mutsvangwa openly attacking what he described as a cabal of "economic opportunists" and "power-hungry elites" allegedly positioning themselves for leadership roles ahead of the 2028 general elections. Although Mutsvangwa did not name Tagwirei directly in his most recent remarks, allies of the businessman have interpreted the comments as thinly veiled jabs.In their response, Friends of Dr Tagwirei appeared to hit back with equal force, accusing some party officials of using public platforms to stir division. "If there are individuals who deserve scrutiny and corrective action, it is those who engage in divisive press conferences, leak confidential information to opposition actors and journalists, and exploit platforms like 'Geza' to undermine the President, the party, and government cohesion," the statement read.The group also issued a broader call for discipline within Zanu-PF, while criticising the use of liberation war credentials as a tool for asserting political dominance. "Liberation credentials are honorable, but they are not a free pass to leadership. Many Zimbabweans have parents who fought in the war, yet they do not assert political claims based on history alone," they said.The growing feud reflects deepening factionalism within Zanu-PF as debates over President Mnangagwa's possible 2030 term extension and succession prospects begin to intensify. Tagwirei's camp urged party members to "rise above pettiness" and recommit to national unity and development.Analysts say the public nature of these exchanges signals a volatile period ahead of the party's elective congress in 2027, where leadership ambitions are expected to come to the fore.Neither Mutsvangwa nor Tagwirei has issued a direct statement in response to the latest developments. CHINHOYI-BASED Chinese company Jian Shan Civil Explosives has lost a labour dispute, with the court ordering it to pay former employees. According to Tinavoishe Observare Takura, the lawyer representing the Zimbabwe Chemical, Plastic and Allied Workers Union, Jian Shan Civil Explosives presented its employees with contracts containing vague terms. He said before signing the contracts, the workers sought clarity and the Chinese company terminated the contracts of 11 employees. As legal counsel, I complained to the National Employment Council for Chemicals about the unfair dismissal and unfair labour practice of paying below the mandated minimum wages, he said. Munashe Murisa, Luke Kumunga, Nyarai Rusike, Kudzai Chiteya, Malvin Dzanwa, George Mushinyi, Irvine Chimbadzo, Confidence Nemakonde, Killford Gorosviba, Kelvin Mwanza and Matirasa Machingura are the affected workers. An award was made in favour of the claimants and we therefore applied for registration of the award at the Chinhoyi Magistrates Court, which was granted, Takura said. However, the employer filed a late application for review at the Harare Labour Court, but lost the matter. Jian Shan appealed against the award registration at the Chinhoyi High Court without serving the workers with papers and the application was dismissed due to lack of service. A writ of execution was issued to enforce the ruling through the messenger of court's office on July 16 this year. The workers are owed US$24 324,23. Company property was attached including a Foton Truck, two metal containers, a Chang Ving engine, heavy duty generator, forklift, 5 000-litre Jojo tank and a heavy duty drill. Newsday The detention of two Italian nationals in the controversial "Alligator Alcatraz" facility in Florida has ignited a political storm in Italy, with lawmakers demanding action over reports of harsh conditions and civil rights concerns. The men, Gaetano Mirabella Costa, 45, and Fernando Artese. 64, are facing "inhuman and degrading" treatment, according to Italian opposition lawmaker Laura Boldrini. Another Italian lawmaker, Angelo Bonelli, claimed the pair are "locked in cages" without basic rights, such as legal counsel, water, or proper food, the Washington Post reports. Italy's former prime minister Matteo Renzi accused Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government of prioritizing its relationship with President Trump over defending Italian citizens. Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin confirmed the Italians' detention, noting that Costa overstayed his tourist visa by nearly seven years, and Artese remained in the US about a decade past his authorized period. "Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, if you break the law, you will face the consequences," McLaughlin said in a statement to the Post. Costa told Italian media that he was detained by ICE after he spent six months in jail for domestic violence against his American ex-wife for possession of prescription drugs, CNN reports. Artese's family said he was detained after a traffic stop because of a warrant for failing to appear in court for a driving violation. They denied that he was in the country illegally, but said he was already planning to leave the US this year. Florida officials and Republican lawmakers have denied reports of poor conditions at the facility, established at a repurposed airport last month, but detainees and former guards have described shortages of water, leaky tents, and a mosquito-infested environment. "We are literally caged, like a chicken coop. There are 32 of us in a cage, the bathrooms are open and everyone sees you," Artese told Italian media a few days ago, per CNN. "I don't even have the chance to speak to a lawyer, or a judge. Get us out of this nightmare." Medically assisted dying can seem the "logical" and "compassionate" route when a terminally ill patient seems to have nothing but pain and suffering in their future, concedes journalist Louise Perry. But Perry, whose native UK recently saw its lawmakers greenlight plans to legalize assisted suicide, notes in her column for the New York Times that "every one" of the nations and US states in which medically assisted dying is permissible "has a total fertility rate below the replacement threshold." She adds: "I do not think this is a coincidence." To bolster her argument, Perry looks to the dystopian novel The Children of Men (made into a similarly named movie with Clive Owen), in which state-sanctioned mass suicides are forced upon the elderly and infirm, with Perry fearing that author PD James' "vision is already being realized" in the real world. That's because, per Perry, when fertility rates drop, so do the numbers of younger workers that fund social safety nets that take care of a society's older members. And that, in turn, leads to a "very clear problem," she writes. "The state, with its almighty power, is tasked with both paying for the support of the old and disabled and regulating their dying. Encouraging citizens to [undergo an assisted suicide] may seem like a cost-saving measure at a time when the financial burden of their care has never been greater." Add to that mix the fact that some nations are easing their criteria to qualify for an assisted suicide, and Perry sees the potential for bad news for society's most vulnerable members. Some (perhaps) good news for the US, though: "For all of the problems with the American health care system, its largely privatized structure means that it is less vulnerable to these perverse incentives." More here. A fire that killed 10 people at a Massachusetts assisted-living facility was unintentionally caused by someone smoking or an electrical issue with an oxygen machine, investigators said Tuesday. The state's deadliest blaze in more than four decades has highlighted the lack of regulations governing assisted-living facilities that often care for low-income or disabled residents, the AP reports. The state fire marshal, Jon Davine, said the presence of medical oxygen contributed to the spread of the July 13 fire at Gabriel House in Fall River. The blaze left some residents hanging out of windows of the three-story building screaming for help. "Please, there's truly no safe way to smoke. But smoking is especially dangerous when home oxygen is in use," Davine said at a news conference Tuesday. Georgia State U and Operation HOPE Program Fosters AI Literacy in Underserved Youth A pilot program co-led by Operation HOPE and Georgia State University is working to build technical, entrepreneurial, and financial-literacy skills in Atlanta-area youth to help them thrive in the AI-powered workforce. The AI Literacy Pipeline to Prosperity Project (AILP) kicked off earlier this month with a week-long summer camp for rising 9th11th graders hosted at Georgia State's J. Mack Robinson College of Business. Participants engaged in immersive, hands-on activities such as AI literacy bootcamps, design-thinking sprints, mentorship from local tech leaders, and opportunities to develop AI-driven prototypes, according to a news announcement. Students were taught by a multidisciplinary team of Georgia State faculty focused on innovation, finance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship, as well as industry experts from Atlanta's ecosystem of AI companies. "With AILP and our inaugural summer camp, we're planting the seeds of innovation and economic mobility where they're needed most," commented Brian Betts, President and CFO of Operation HOPE, in a statement. "Georgia State has been an exceptional lead partner in designing and executing the pilot, and we're equally grateful to the original coalition of thought leaders, from the AI Ethics Council to Atlanta's HBCUs, who helped shape this vision from the beginning." "It was exciting to collaborate with our GSU faculty and industry partners to shape every element of this experience, from program curriculum to student engagement, and to create such a transformative opportunity for these high school students to develop and deepen their AI literacy skills," said Dr. Jen Bailey, Robinson's associate dean for undergraduate programs, who led the curriculum design and program delivery for the AILP camp. "Their curiosity, creativity, and drive made this inaugural cohort a powerful reminder of what's possible when we invest early in the next generation of innovators." The AILP initiative is continuing to develop a range of programming, including K-12 immersion programs, AI-focused scholarships, apprenticeships and family support for workers displaced by automation, and plans to use the Atlanta pilot as a template that can be replicated nationally. It is supported by Georgia State University's student success model and Operation HOPE's "HOPE Inside" platform, which has generated more than $4.2 billion in economic activity for underserved communities across the United States. For more information, visit the AILP site. The president of the Philippines managed to secure a reduction in the US tariff rate on his country's exports Tuesday, but it wasn't a huge one. After meeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House on Tuesday, President Trump praised Marcos as a "very good, and tough, negotiator" and said the tariff rate would be lowered from 20% to 19%. Before his departure for the US, Marcos said his top priority would be reducing the tariff Trump announced earlier this month, the Manila Times reports. "It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs," Trump said in a post on Truth Social. "The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff." New Jersey's federal judges have chosen not to keep Alina Habba as the state's top federal prosecutor, ending her four-month stint as interim US attorney. The judges, in a brief order Tuesday signed by Chief US District Judge Renee Bumb, named Desiree GraceHabba's deputy and a career prosecutorto take over, the Wall Street Journal reports. No explanation was offered for the switch. Later Tuesday, however, Attorney General Pam Bondi said Grace had been "removed" as the assistant US attorney, reports the New York Times . "This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges," Bondi said in a post on X, "especially when they threaten the President's core Article II powers." Habba, once President Trump's personal attorney and a White House counselor, had been installed in March as a temporary pick. Her continued tenure past the 120-day limit depended on either Senate confirmation or a green light from the district's judges, neither of which materialized. Trump had sought to make her appointment permanent, but that process had yet to move forward in the Senate, the Journal reports. The decision followed weeks of controversy over Habba's qualifications and actions. Her critics, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, labeled her a "woefully unqualified political hack" and urged the judges to oust her. The Trump administration, however, stood by Habba, citing her independence and adherence to protocol. The judges' decision, made in a private vote Monday, may cause another showdown between the administration and the federal judiciary, and it's not clear whether the judges will be able to enforce their appointment of Grace, the Times reports. Dozens of peacocks and peahens known for wandering the grounds of a historic Art Deco hotel south of Sacramento, California, are missing, and the hotel staff said Tuesday they believe the birds were stolen. After a customer at the Ryde Hotel mentioned Sunday seeing two men grabbing one of the birds and putting it inside a cage on the bed of a pickup truck, the staff did a count and realized only four of their exotic birds remained, said David Nielsen, the hotel's general manager. "We're not sure why anyone would do anything like this, but the staff is absolutely heartbroken," Nielsen said. Authorities are investigating the case as a property crime, the AP reports. The male birds are valued at $2,000 each and the peahens at $1,000 each, said Sgt. Amar Gandhi, a spokesperson at the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office. The owner purchased five of the birds to wander the grounds 14 years ago. They reproduced "to the point that they became a signature of the hotel," Nielsen said. Staff fed them leftovers of filet mignon, prime rib, and salmon, and over time, the birds became tamer. They got used to people, and the employees began seeing them as pets, even naming some of them. Since the news about the missing birds became public, people have been calling the hotel with tips and possible sightings, including reports of neighbors with new peacock pets, Nielsen said. President Trump announced a trade framework with Japan on Tuesday, placing a 15% tax on goods imported from that nation. "This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it," Trump posted on Truth Social , adding that the United States "will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan." Key details remained unclear from Trump's post, such as whether Japanese-built autos would face a higher 25% tariff that Trump imposed on the sector. Reuters notes that autos make up more than a quarter of Japan's exports to the US. The US ran a $69.4 billion trade imbalance on goods with Japan last year, according to the Census Bureau. After a meeting with Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier Tuesday, Trump said the tariff on imports from that country would be reduced from 20% to 19%. The president is set to impose the broad tariffs listed in his recent letters to other world leaders on Aug. 1, raising questions of whether there will be any breakthrough in talks with the European Union. At a Tuesday dinner, Trump said the EU would be in Washington on Wednesday for trade talks. The Trump administration has a separate negotiating period with China that is currently set to run through Aug. 12 as goods from that nation are taxed at an additional 30% baseline. Thousands of Ukrainians rallied outside President Volodymyr Zelensky's office in Kyiv on Tuesday night, marking Ukraine's first major antigovernment protest since Russia's war began. The demonstrationa powerful response to new laws curbing the nation's anticorruption effortsdrew both civilians and soldiers, signaling a growing rift in the national unity that has defined Ukraine's wartime response. Protests were also seen in Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa, per the BBC . The protests erupted hours after Parliament, dominated by Zelensky's party, voted to give the presidentially-appointed prosecutor general sweeping power over Ukraine's anticorruption agencies, per the New York Times . The move, signed into law the same night, effectively reduces the independence of bodies tasked with investigating graft, a longstanding issue in Ukraine. Anger has been simmering since security services raided anticorruption offices that had been looking into Zelensky's inner circle on Monday, citing claims of Russian infiltration. Many see this as part of a broader pattern: recent weeks have seen crackdowns on independent media, activists, and watchdog groups, threatening what demonstrators believe has been a decade of progress toward more open government. Protesters, many of them young, gathered peacefully along the same hills above Maidan Square that saw mass anti-corruption protests in 2014, which led to the ouster of a Kremlin-aligned president. "This could be the destruction of 10 years of work by civil society," said one demonstrator, per the Times. "Our democracy is under attack," said another. "My father did not die for this," said a third, per the BBC. The government did not immediately address the protest. In an overnight address, Zelensky said anticorruption cases had been "lying dormant" for years and the new law would ensure "the inevitability of punishment" for lawbreakers. As food shortages in Gaza reach critical levels, Agence France-Presse is urgently appealing for its journalists to be allowed out of the besieged territoryraising alarm about both the physical toll on reporters and the looming loss of vital on-the-ground coverage. AFP is urging Israel to let its freelancers leave Gaza, citing an escalating hunger crisis that's making it nearly impossible for them to work, NPR reports. AFP's global news director, Phil Chetwynd, told NPR that reporters are so weakened by hunger and the constant search for food that simply getting to a story has become a struggle. "Constant headaches, constant dizziness," he said, describing their physical decline. The AFP journalists' union echoed these concerns, saying members can't recall ever fearing colleagues might die from starvation, citing one photographer who posted online, "My body is thin and I can't work anymore." Since Israel's blockade of Gaza following Hamas' 2023 attack, international journalists have been unable to enter the enclave independently, leaving locally based freelance reporters to shoulder the burden. The crisis comes as Gaza's 2 million residents continue to face severe shortages of food and water; health officials report 25 children have died from malnutrition in just the past week. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned the Security Council that "starvation is knocking on every door." At least 186 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the conflict began, most of them Palestinian. Press freedom advocates warn that as local journalists are pushed to the brink, the world risks losing its last independent eyes and ears inside Gazaa threat not just to information but to global accountability. French officials have backed AFP's call, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot pushing for the journalists' evacuation and pressing Israel to reopen access to international media. Israel has yet to respond to AFP's request. Oxfam says staffers who work for the charity in Gaza face similar starvation dangers, Al Jazeera reports. After a devastating crash that killed 260 people, Air India's inspection of its Boeing fleet has found no faults in the fuel switch locking mechanisms now under global scrutiny , the New York Times reports. As investigators search for answers, attention remains fixed on whator who caused the critical switches to move just seconds before disaster struck. On June 12, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787-8 bound for London, crashed shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, killing 260 people, including 19 on the ground. Investigators are still piecing together the cause, a process expected to stretch on for months or even years. Early findings from India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau highlight a key detail: the jet's fuel switches, which regulate the flow of fuel to the engines, were moved from the "RUN" position to "CUTOFF" seconds before the plane went down. That led to an immediate loss of power. Exactly how or why the switches were flipped remains unclear. Safety experts say it's improbable they changed position without human action, as they're equipped with locks to prevent accidental movement. In cockpit recordings, one pilot asks the other why he cut off the fuel supply, which the other pilot denies doing. Sources say the recording indicates it was the captain who cut off the fuel supply, but the AAIB says it's too early to draw conclusions, Reuters reports. Investigators noted that the crew tried to restore power, but the engines didn't respond in time to avert disaster. story continues below In the wake of the crash, Indian aviation regulators ordered airlines to examine the fuel switch locking mechanisms on all Boeing planes. Air India said these precautionary checks have now wrapped up, adding that "no issues were found" with the switches in its fleet. The investigation continues, with the focus remaining on whether mechanical failure or human error played a role. The Canadian girl allegedly killed by her father in upstate New York over the weekend was drowned, according to an autopsy conducted Monday. Preliminary findings released Tuesday indicate 9-year-old Melina Frattolin of Montreal died from asphyxia due to drowning and her death was a homicide, per the CBC . Her father, 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin, who was vacationing with the daughter of whom he did not have custody, has pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder and concealing a corpse, per the New York Times . Authorities say he falsely reported Melina had been abducted at Lake George on Saturday evening. Her body was ultimately found hidden under a log in a pond in Ticonderoga, about 30 miles east of Lake George, according to court documents. Investigators believe Melina was killed between 6:30pm Saturday, when she spoke to her mother on the phone, and 10pm, when her father reported her missing. The pair had been vacationing in New York and Connecticut since entering the US on July 11. New York State Police are now asking for the public's help in tracing the pair's movements. They've requested accounts and video from anyone who might have seen the father and daughter on Saturday evening along the section of Interstate 87 connecting Lake George and Ticonderoga. Frattolin was driving a 2024 gray Toyota Prius. The CBC reports he was $110,000 in debt related to his coffee business, and was suing his Airbnb business partners, seeking more than $85,000 in damages. Jeffrey Epstein's brother says President Trump is lying about his relationship with the late financier and sex offender while "trying to cover his butt." "I know that they were good friends and I witnessed it myself," Mark Epstein told CNN 's Erin Burnett on Tuesday. He said he understood why people tried to distance themselves from his brother after he was arrested on federal sex trafficking charges in 2019. Around that time, Trump claimed he "did not want anything to do with him," per the Daily Beast . But the truth is that they were formerly very close, says Mark Epstein, offering an account of a 1999 plane ride as an example. He says Jeffrey Epstein had told him about a crude joke Trump made about his sexual history and, during the plane ride a week or two later, made Trump repeat it. "Jeffrey asked him, 'How come you sleep with so many married women?' and Donald said, 'Because it's so wrong.'" "For Jeffrey to ask him that question, he would have to know that Donald slept with a lot of married women. And he probably got that information from Donald," Mark Epstein told Burnett. "That's not the kind of question you ask a casual acquaintance. That's a question you ask a good friend." Mark Epstein also accused Trump of lying about never having been in Epstein's office, saying Epstein's former employees "can testify that they saw Trump in Jeffrey's office on numerous occasions." Epstein accuser Maria Farmer has claimed Trump eyed her up in the financier's office in 1995, believing her to be a minor. Meanwhile, Mark Epstein says he wants to see some 15 hours of video footage of his brother, recorded by former Trump adviser Steve Bannon. The pair had been filming together before Epstein's arrest. In 2021, Bannon teased a documentary about Epstein, but it was never released. Bannon recently said he plans to release at least some of the footage "early next year," per NBC News. More details are emerging about Wess Roley, the 20-year-old Idaho man who authorities believe set a brush fire near Coeur d'Alene on June 29 and then ambushed firefighters who responded, killing two and wounding a third before turning the gun on himself. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris on Tuesday revealed that Roley had twice tried to join the US Armyin Arizona in 2023 and in Idaho a year laterbut didn't show up at the required appointments. Norris said that in May he walked into a Coeur d'Alene fire station thinking he could become a firefighter that same day and left in a "very, very frustrated and agitated state" after being told there was an application process. Norris said investigators discovered a handwritten note in Roley's truck addressed to his father. The Spokesman-Review reports it read: "Hello Father, I write this to you in a concerned effort that you may read this in upmost [sic] sincerity. Tomorrow, I shall go into battle if I survive it would be with upmost dishonor. I bid thee farewell, I hope that you shall live to the fullest extent as you have thus far. I beg that you do not fall into the traps of modern existence, with media and other false pleasantries that plague the minds of individuals today. Propaganda of sorts. You are a [sic] astounding individual and I wish you the best. Sincerely, Wess Roley." At his home, authorities also found a drawing depicting violence. Norris described the attack as "a premeditated ambush, a pure act of evil against the people we look to for help," reports NBC News. Norris said Roley set a series of fires around 1pm on the day in question then was asked by responding firefighters to move his vehicle around 1:40pm. Ten minutes later, Roley shot and wounded firefighter David Tysdal, and then fatally shot Battalion Chiefs John Morrison and Frank J. Harwood, who were sitting inside a fire truck, "within milliseconds." The men died instantly. Roley's body found in the woods several hours later. South Korean prosecutors have asked a judge to overturn a 78-year-old woman's 1964 conviction for defending herself during a sexual assault in a case that has lingered in the public consciousness for decades. At 18, Choi Mal-ja fought off her attacker by biting off part of his tongue after he forced it into her mouth, per the BBC . Yet in a ruling that has long been criticized, she received a 10-month suspended sentence for causing grievous bodily harm. Meanwhile, her attacker was convicted only of trespassing and intimidation, receiving a six-month sentence, suspended for two years. Back then, the court said Choi's actions "exceeded the reasonable bounds of legally permissible self-defense," per CBS News. There were even allegations that the court tried to get Choi to marry her attacker, per the Korea Herald. The case was largely forgotten until the global #MeToo movementand its powerful ripple effect in South Korea, which has seen widespread women's rights protestsspurred Choi to challenge her record. Choi's initial bid to clear her name began in 2020 but was rejected by lower courts. After sustained campaigning and an appeal, South Korea's top court finally ordered a retrial this year. Just before her hearing at the Busan District Court, Choi told reporters she hopes her case will help "future generations live in a world free from sexual violence." The prosecution began proceedings with an apology and asked the court to exonerate her, per the BBC. "We have caused Choi Mal-ja, a victim of a sex crime who should have been protected as one, indescribable pain and agony," said Chief Prosecutor Jeong Myeong-won. A ruling isn't expected until Sept. 10, though Choi expects the verdict will now be overturned. "We won!" she announced upon leaving court. "Justice is alive." A woman who killed her infant son in 1986 in Connecticut and went on to live a seemingly quiet, normal life with her family in Florida for more than three decades was sentenced Tuesday to five years of probation. Janita Phillips, 65, of Lake Mary, Florida, was charged with murder in 2021, after police said new DNA testing linked her to the crime. She pleaded guilty to a lesser manslaughter charge in April. The probation sentence was unusual in a child homicide case but warranteda peer-reviewed psychological assessment concluded Phillips experienced "extreme emotional distress" at the time of the killing, according to both the prosecutor and defense lawyer. Judge Gary White in Stamford, Connecticut, called it a case deserving mercy, reports the AP . When Phillips killed the infant, she and her husband had just moved into an apartment in Greenwich, Connecticut, with their eldest child after being homeless, and her husband had told her he didn't want another baby, her lawyer, Stephen DeLeo, said. The couple, who've been married for 42 years, were stressed about money and their ability to feed their family, DeLeo said. Phillips told police she hid the pregnancy from her husband and relatives, an arrest warrant said. Phillips and her husband have three children who are now adults. One of their sons is disabled and resides at an assisted living facility, while her husband has medical problems and she takes care of him, DeLeo said. "Incarcerating her would serve no purpose at this time," DeLeo said, adding that this was Phillips' only brush with the law. He also said she lost her insurance industry job because of the case. Phillips cried during the sentencing hearing and said she had a "deep sense of regret." She also said she took full responsibility, DeLeo said. The newborn, named Baby John by police, was found dead in a garbage truck on May 16, 1986, after workers had emptied a dumpster at the apartment building in Greenwich where Phillips lived. The medical examiner's office determined the baby was strangled shortly after being born. Greenwich police used DNA testing in 2020 that linked evidence found at the crime scene to the boy's mother. Eight children were hospitalized Tuesday evening in Cambridge, Massachusetts, after exhibiting seizure-like symptoms during a choir concert held at St. Paul's Parish. According to Fire Chief Thomas Cahill, the incident began around 7pm when a call came in about a child experiencing a seizure while participating in the free performance. The child was found alert on the church's steps when responders arrived. "That quickly escalated into seven other people having seizure-like symptoms," Cahill told WCVB . Attendees, including several students and adults, reported a strange odor inside the building. However, emergency crews detected nothing unusual upon arrival. All affected childrenages 11 to 13 and visiting from France as part of the distinguished Choeur d'Enfants d'Ile-de-France, per ABC News, were taken to local hospitals as a precaution. Cahill described the event as "somewhat unusual," noting that it was a standard medical call that rapidly became more serious, per WCVB. A hazmat team inspected the church but found no hazardous substances, reports WHDH, and the building was ventilated before being cleared for use. Roughly 70 others at the concert, including chaperones and other children, showed no symptoms and left safely. The hospitalized children appeared healthy prior to being hospitalized and were subsequently released. The cause of their sudden symptoms remains unknown. For the first time, the United Nations' top court has declared that failing to protect the planet from climate change could breach international law. The highly anticipated advisory opinion delivered in the Hague on Wednesday "is likely to determine the course of future climate action across the world," reports Reuters. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) called climate change an "urgent and existential" threat and emphasized that a "clean, healthy, and sustainable environment" is a fundamental human right, per the AP. "Failure of a state to take appropriate action to protect the climate system ... may constitute an internationally wrongful act," court President Yuji Iwasawa said. What you need to know: The State Department has launched an investigation into Harvard's handling of international visas, marking the third major federal action directed at the institution since it resumed talks with the Trump administration, per the New York Times. Secretary of State Marco Rubio notified Harvard President Alan M. Garber of the inquiry in a Wednesday letter, requesting a broad array of records related to the university's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program. This program issues visas to students, professors, researchers, and others for cultural and educational exchange. The orcas that have been targeting boats near Gibraltar for years appear to have widened their range. Two French sailors were rescued by the Spanish coastguard Monday after they sent out a mayday call, saying their yacht was being rammed by a pod of orcas off the coast of the Basque Country, People reports. They said the killer whales had damaged the vessel's rudder. They were taken to shore by the maritime rescue service and their boat, which was not in danger of sinking, was towed to the port of Getaria. This is the first known incident of its kind in the area, though the encounters have spread to other parts of the Spanish coast in recent years, especially Galicia, reports Sur . At least six vessels have been sunk and many others damaged since orcas began targeting yachts in 2020, though in the Strait of Gibraltar, attacks have fallen by around 90% since sailors started following recommendations including staying in shallower waters and not making loud noises to try to scare orcas away, the Telegraph reports. Javier Almunia, director of the Loro Parque Foundation, a conservation group, says the latest incident "can be explained by the same animals moving around the Iberian Peninsula" and there's no sign the behavior is spreading between pods. A study commissioned by the Spanish and Portuguese governments found that young orcas were targeting ships' rudders for fun, Sur reports. "From May 2020 to the same dates in 2024, there are at least 637 documented interactions between killer whales and boats. However, this behavior is more linked to play than to aggression," says marine biologist Naomi Rose. She says orcas are very intelligent, and "if they wanted to sink boats, they would succeed." The search for a missing grad student in Wisconsin came to a grim end on Wednesday. Authorities say the body of Eliotte Heinz was found in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, Minnesota, CBS News reports. She disappeared early Sunday after a night out with friends at a bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin. "This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search," La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said in a statement . "Our thoughts are with Eliotte's family, friends, and all those who knew Eliotte. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte." The La Crosse Police Department earlier said Heinz was last seen walking home along the Mississippi waterfront around 3:30am on Sunday, Fox News reports. Her mother said friends found her cell phone as they searched for her. Brownsville is about 15 miles downriver from La Crosse. Police say they are waiting for an autopsy to confirm the cause of death, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. Heinz had just started her second year of grad school at Viterbo University, a private Catholic university in La Crosse, reports WPR. The university thanked police and the many community members who assisted the search. "There are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of her," Viterbo University President Dr. Rick Trietley said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to Eliotte's family. We hold them in our prayers and stand with them in their grief." A federal judge in Florida has declined a request to unseal grand jury transcripts tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. US District Judge Robin Rosenberg pointed to existing precedent, stating that she lacked the authority to grant the request and that her "hands are tied," NPR reports. Rosenberg cited guidelines governing grand jury secrecy for the 11th Circuit, which includes Florida, reports the Washington Post . The Department of Justice had sought transcripts from investigations of Epstein in the state in 2005 and 2007. The denial comes after calls from President Trump, who suggested the transcripts be made public in response to critics seeking clarity on the scandal. Rosenberg underscored that legal exceptions allowing disclosure of grand jury materials are limited, and that the current petition did not meet those thresholds. Meanwhile, parallel efforts are underway in New York, where two federal judges are also considering DOJ motions to unseal similar records. The New York judges have set deadlines for the Justice Department to further justify its request, and for responses from parties connected to Epstein and his victims. The Wall Street Journal has come out with another report on President Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, though it's not clear whether the president will file another lawsuit . The Journal, citing "senior administration officials," reports that Justice Department officials found Trump's name appeared multiple times in FBI files on Epstein that Attorney General Pam Bondi had directed them to review. Bondi told the president in a May meeting that his name was in the files, as were those of many other high-profile figures, according to the Journal's sources. The newspaper notes that being in the files "isn't a sign of wrongdoing" and that its sources say there were hundreds of other names in the files. Bondi and her deputy, Todd Blanche, told the president that the "files contained what officials felt was unverified hearsay about many people, including Trump," the Journal reports. Bondi and Blanche told the Journal that they determined nothing in the files warranted further investigation. "As part of our routine briefing, we made the President aware of the findings," they said. White House spokesman Steven Cheung told CNBC that Trump kicked Epstein out of Mar-a-Lago and that the Journal's story is a "continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media." When Trump was asked by a reporter last week if Bondi had told him his name was in the files, he said, "No, no," Trump, adding, "She's given us just a very quick briefing, and in terms of the credibility of the different things that they've seen." The New York Times, citing a source close to Trump, reports that the White House isn't worried about the development because Trump's name appeared in the files Bondi released in February, most of which had been public for years. During his clash with the president last month, Elon Musk said Trump "is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public." TOKYO, Jul 23 (News On Japan) - A Chinese national enrolled in a graduate program at Kyoto University has been re-arrested for taking the TOEIC exam under another person's name, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police announced. The case is part of a broader investigation into a series of cheating incidents uncovered in recent months, with authorities now revealing the methods used in the scheme. According to investigators, the cheating involved an ultra-small device a gold-colored earpiece approximately 3 millimeters in diameter, about the size of a grain of rice that was inserted deep into the ear canal, making it nearly invisible from the outside. The device was confiscated by police on June 7th from ten Chinese nationals, both men and women, suspected of attempting to cheat during a TOEIC exam session. On July 23rd, police re-arrested 27-year-old Wang Likun on suspicion of impersonation. Wang allegedly used a miniature microphone hidden inside a face mask to transmit answers to test-takers wearing the concealed earpieces. Investigators also seized additional equipment, including pendant-style relay devices, and believe the operation was facilitated by a specialized intermediary company. Police suspect the scheme was part of a coordinated and organized effort involving multiple individuals and are working to uncover the full extent of the operation. Source: TBS FUKUI, Jul 23 (News On Japan) - Kansai Electric Power announced on July 22nd that it has resumed geological surveys in Mihama, Fukui Prefecture, as part of plans to construct a new nuclear reactormarking a major policy shift after a 14-year freeze following the Fukushima Daiichi disaster. President Nozomu Mori stated that the company had suspended on-site research for a replacement reactor at the Mihama facility after March 12th, 2011, but has now decided to restart the process. The company is considering installing an advanced Innovative Light Water Reactor, a next-generation reactor that is said to offer higher safety standards. The decision to proceed with construction will be based on the results of the geological survey, the reactors development progress, and a cost-benefit analysis. Currently, Mihamas Units 1 and 2 have been officially decommissioned, and Unit 3 is approaching its 50th year of operation. Geological surveys had originally begun in 2010 but were halted in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear crisis caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Executive Vice President Hitoshi Mizuta, who visited Fukui Prefecture on July 22nd, emphasized that discussions with local residents would be held carefully in cooperation with the town of Mihama. "Explaining this thoroughly and respectfully is essential," he said. Local reactions were mixed. A woman in her 30s expressed support, saying, "If this brings vitality to the town, Im in favor. I dont feel any additional concern." A woman in her 20s was more cautious: "Im not outright opposed, but I do feel uneasy. I just hope nothing like Fukushima happens again." The Mihama plant lies within a 30-kilometer radius that includes parts of Shiga Prefecture and Lake Biwa, making safety a concern not just for Fukui but for the broader Kansai region. With rising electricity costs and national energy security at stake, the impact on daily life is drawing increasing attention. Earlier this year, Japan's Cabinet approved a major reversal in energy policy. Since 2011, the government had been signaling a zero-nuclear policy for the 2030s. However, in February, it formally adopted a plan to maximize the use of nuclear energy. The shift comes amid fears that energy shortfalls could hinder Japans economic competitiveness. According to journalist Maiko Nakajima, the governments new approach is driven by rising power demand from digital infrastructure such as data centers and semiconductor factories. Electricity usage is expected to rise fourteenfold over the next decade as services like cloud computing expand. Global competition in AI and digital industries is pushing countries to secure stable energy supplies, with France even declaring its intention to link AI development with nuclear energy expansion. Despite these trends, safety and cost remain critical issues. The Mihama Unit 3 reactor is 49 years old, nearing the 60-year operational limit for nuclear facilities. Emergency evacuation plans for surrounding areas remain incomplete, and facilities to process spent nuclear fuel are still under development. Cost-wise, nuclear power remains cheaper than thermal but more expensive than solar, and building new reactors requires major capital investment. In the event of an accident, the financial risks are massivedecommissioning Fukushima Daiichi has cost around 8 trillion yen, with compensation adding significantly more. Nakajima explained that while initial construction costs will raise electricity bills in the short term, the long-term financial burden also hinges on whether disasters occur. Experts argue that Japan must aim for a balanced energy mix, using renewable energy as the main source and nuclear as a supplementary one. Commentator Takaoka added that although Kansai Electric is the project operator, it is ultimately the national government that gives final approval, underlining the role of state policy in shaping the nuclear revival. As the world shifts toward AI and data-intensive technologies, electricity supply becomes a cornerstone of national competitiveness. The decision to resume activity at Mihama is seen as part of this broader momentum. Fourteen years after Fukushima, changing public sentiment and government backing have enabled Kansai Electric to take the first step toward nuclear expansion once again. Source: YOMIURI KYOTO, Jul 23 (News On Japan) - In Ujitawara, a town in Kyoto Prefecture, residents are facing an unusual problem: monkeys are repeatedly snatching side mirrors from parked cars. The bizarre incidents began around the end of last year and have now surged to around 150 reported cases. To investigate why these monkeys are targeting car mirrors, a zoo that has long experience with primate care conducted a simple experiment. They installed mirrors in the enclosure to observe the animals behavior. The results shed light on the mystery, revealing the monkeys' strong interest in their own reflections as a likely factor. Holding onto a mirror, the monkey mystery is slowly being unraveled. Source: KTV NEWS FUKUOKA, Jul 23 (News On Japan) - To combat a rising number of voyeurism cases in Fukuokas Tenjin district, an anti-voyeurism mirror was installed on July 23rd beside an escalator at Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station. The mirror, designed to offer a wide field of view, is intended to raise public awareness and deter inappropriate photography on station premises. The initiative was led by the We Love Tenjin Council, a community organization comprising local businesses, which collaborated with police to implement the measure. A representative from the council said, Unfortunately, voyeurism is still happening daily. We hope this mirror will help reduce the number of victims and allow people to use the station with peace of mind. According to Fukuoka Prefectural Police, there were 110 reported voyeurism cases in the prefecture from January through the end of June this year10 more than the same period last year. Many of these incidents occurred on escalators or staircases. Source: FBS The partnership encourages Canadians to celebrate and host at any time of the year, with La Petite Fenetre Boursin; a surprise pop-up window for one day only in Toronto and Montreal. TORONTO, July 23, 2025 /CNW/ - Boursin is thrilled to announce a limited-time "cheeseboard" window experience celebrating the joy of gathering, in partnership with acclaimed Canadian chef Laurent Dagenais. Bel Group Canada (CNW Group) (CNW Group/Bel Group Canada) Boursin, known for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavours, is bringing its signature charm and its passion for gatheringto the streets of Toronto and Montreal with a surprise European-inspired activation: La Petite Fenetre Boursin. Partnering with celebrated Montreal-born culinary creator Chef Laurent Dagenaisknown for his viral recipes and effortless approach to entertainingBoursin is offering complimentary, chef-designed cheese boards in two beloved neighbourhood spots. For one day only, in Montreal on August 2 and Toronto on August 8, pedestrians passing by can enjoy complimentary, custom-designed cheese boards and take a moment to enjoy Boursin together. Inspired by Florence's iconic "wine windows" that surprise passersby with discreet sips from a hidden soiree, the La Petite Fenetre Boursin invites Canadians to experience that same sense of spontaneous connection. This summer, the Boursin window brings an unexpected moment of gathering and indulgence a delight designed to spark shared enjoyment. Each board contains a charming moment of surprise by centering around one of three delicious flavours: Fig & Balsamic, Garlic & Fine Herbs, Shallot & Chive and Basil & Chive. "I wanted to create something that felt indulgent but totally unpretentiouslike you're sharing a board with your best friends in the south of France," says Chef Laurent. "The idea behind this event is to inspire people to come together. Good food and meaningful gatherings aren't just for the holidays. We hope La Petite Fenetre Boursin encourages people to pause the hustle and bustle of everyday life, enjoy Boursin, and share quality time with one another." This summer, inspired by the joy of coming together, Chef Laurent channels his passion for hosting into every detail of the experience. His thoughtfully crafted boards are meant to surprise, delight, and spark connection; perfectly capturing Boursin's spirit of effortless entertaining. Just like Boursin, these boards are guaranteed to be instant crowd-pleasers, encouraging enjoyment in unison with friends and family on any day of the week. Event Details: Montreal: Date: Saturday, August 2 Saturday, August 2 Time: 1:30 PM 5:00 PM (while supplies last) 1:30 PM (while supplies last) Location: 957 Mont-Royal Ave E Toronto: Date: Friday, August 8 Friday, August 8 Time: 2:30 PM 6:00 PM (while supplies last) 2:30 PM (while supplies last) Location: 730 Queen Street West Whether you're planning a picnic, meeting a friend for coffee, or simply strolling by, the La Petite Fenetre Boursin invites you to pause, connect, and savour the moment. This summer, let Boursin and Chef Laurent surprise you with a delicious reminder that some of the best gatherings are the ones you didn't plan for. About Bel Group Canada Bel Group Canada inc. is a subsidiary of Bel Group, a world leader in branded cheeses and a major player in the healthy snack market with distribution in nearly 120 countries. Created in 2005 to boost the development of the Group's activities in Canada, The subsidiary now employs 275 people in Canada, contributing to the Group's mission of providing healthier and more responsible food for all. Its brands Boursin and The Laughing Cow are produced under subcontract in Canada with local partners and Babybel is produced at the company's plant in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec. Bel Canada Group also owns MOM Group, makers of GoGo squeeZ fruit pouches based in Toronto. To learn more, www.bel-canada.ca. To learn more about Bel Group, visit www.groupe-bel.com. SOURCE Bel Group Canada For more information, please contact: Emily Congiusti | 416-824-7058 The Volonaut Airbike flying motorbike is a breakthrough in personal air mobility and replicates the Star Wars Return of the Jedi Speeder Bike. Volonaut has not publicly released pricing or a launch date for the Airbike as of July 2025. They are located in Poland. UPDATE : An article covering comparing the latest flying cars and giant drone air taxis. Industry commentary and related eVTOL products suggest a potential price in the range of $90,000$150,000. There is a similar product Jetson ONE ($92,000$128,000) or higher. The Jetson ONE and Volonaut Airbike are recreational vehicles and are not allowed to fly in populated areas or controlled airspaces in the US due to the ultralight classification. Volonaut Airbike Technical specifications Empty vehicle mass: 30kg (66lbs) Top speed: 102km/h (63mph) in compliance with FAA Ultralight Max pilot mass: 95kg (209lbs) Propulsion: redundant jet turbines Flight time: max 10 minutes Fuel type: diesel, biodiesel, Jet-A1, kerosene Refuel time: under 1 minute Control: fully redundant flight computer enhanced stabilization License to operate: none required in the US in compliance with FAA Ultralight We are excited to share this raw flight footage including take-off and landing, all with real sound. No special effects, no CGI, no AI, pure engineering. Enjoy the future! A fully functional real-world "speeder bike" that so far only existed in sci-fi movies is finally here. pic.twitter.com/DNFcZdyrTr Volonaut (@Volonaut) July 23, 2025 Competing Jetson One Flying Car The Jetson ONE is primarily a recreational vehicle, not intended for urban commuting, and is restricted from flying in populated areas or controlled airspace in the US due to its ultralight classification Jetson ONE is a single-seat, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) personal aircraft developed by Jetson, a Swedish company. Weight: 86 kg (190 lbs) without batteries, 115 kg (253 lbs) including batteries. Dimensions: Length 2,845 mm, Width 2,400 mm, Height 1,030 mm. Power: 88 kW peak power (102 horsepower) from eight high-power electric brushless motors, each driving a propeller. Top Speed: 6364 mph (101102 km/h), software-limited. Flight Time: Up to 20 minutes, depending on pilot weight (max 95 kg/210 lbs) and conditions. Altitude: Up to 1,500 ft (457 m). Battery: High-discharge lithium-ion batteries, swappable, with a recharge time of ~1 hour at 230/240V or ~2 hours at 110V. Controls: Four-axis joystick (altitude with left hand, direction with right), with hands-free hover and auto-land functions. Safety Features:Redundant propulsion system (can fly with one motor down). Rapid-deployment ballistic parachute. LIDAR sensors for terrain tracking and obstacle avoidance. Race-car-inspired aluminum and carbon fiber safety cell with crumble zones. They are planning to build about 360 over the next two years and have sold all of those units. New orders for Jetson One starting in 2027. Chinese media tested ADAS and FSD in various scenarios, including highways and night driving. Tesla vision-based system significantly outperformed emerging Chinese brands like Huawei & Xiaomi, as well as traditional manufacturers. Even with LiDAR, competitors ADAS performance lags behind Tesla. Only 6 out of 34 other systems passed half of the tests (3 out of 6) and 24 passed one or none of the tests. Tesla had vehicles in the tests and Tesla had top performance by passing 5 out of 6 tests. The test scenarios were Sudden Steering by Lead Vehicle Highway Scenario Temporary Construction Zone Construction Zone with Stationary Truck Crashed Vehicle Spotted on Highway Aggressive Merge at On-Ramp Boar Darting Across Highway The construction zone with stationary truck, boar (wild pig) darting across highway and the aggressive merge at on ramp were problems for almost all of the systems. About half of China systems could pass one or none of the tests. NEWS: Chinese media tested ADAS in various scenarios, including highways & night driving. @Teslas vision-based system significantly outperformed emerging Chinese brands like Huawei & Xiaomi, as well as traditional manufacturers. Even with LiDAR, competitors ADAS performance pic.twitter.com/xW5CmmbnQ4 Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) July 23, 2025 Rankings Top Performers: Tesla Model 3 (2023 RWD Refreshed) 5/6 Tesla Model Y (2023 LR Refreshed) 5/6 Avita 12 (2025 Dual Motor Max) 3/6 Xiaomi SU7 (2025 Max) 3/6 IM LS6 (2025 625km Long Range Max) 3/6 Voyah FREE (2025 Ultra 6C Edition) 3/6 Zhiji LS7 (2024 Dual Motor 100kWh) 3/6 Leapmotor C11 (2025 YOU Edition 100kWh 4WD) 3/6 Mid-Tier: Aion RT (2025) 2/6 Geely Galaxy E8 (2025 520 Pro Light) 2/6 AITO M5 (2024 650 Smart Drive Pro) 2/6 Xpeng G6 (2024 Ultra Rear Drive) 2/5 Nio ET5 (2024 75kWh) 2/5 Low Performers: Li Auto L6 (2025 Max Smart Driving) 1/6 Xiaomi SU7 (2025 Standard Rear Drive Max) 1/5 Voyah Dreamer (2025 Ultra 6C Edition) 1/5 BYD Song L DM-i (2025 DM-i 80KM) 1/5 ICAR V23 (2025 501km Rear Drive) 1/5 Xiaomi SU7 Ultra (2025) 1/4 Nezha S (2025 305KM Edition) 1/4 BYD Seal 06 (2025 305KM Edition) 1/4 Rising Auto F7 (2024 100kWh) 1/4 Failed All Tests (0 Passes): Zeekr 001 (2025 YOU Edition 100kWh 4WD) 0/6 BMW 3 Series PHEV (2025 Long Range) 0/6 Cadillac CT6 (2024 900) 0/6 BYD Han EV (2025 701KM) 0/5 Nio EC6 (2024 530KM Light Sensing) 0/5 Changan Deepal SL03 (2025 Pro 730STI Dragon Edition) 0/5 GAC Aion Hyper GT (2025 Long Range Pro) 0/5 BYD Han DM-i (2025 125KM Light Sensing) 0/5 Zeekr 7X (2025 100kWh) 0/5 Xiaomi SU7 (2024 Light Sensing Max) 0/4 BYD Qin DM-i (2025 115KM) 0/4 Leapmotor C01 (2025 525KM High Speed) 0/4 Chery Arrizo 8 (2025 260T) 0/4 Jikrypton Star Era (2025 Max Drive Pro Edition) 0/4 firefly (2025 Lite) 0/4 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 A 14-year-old girl was seriously injured when a school bus struck her while she was on foot in Demarest Wednesday morning, the Bergen County Prosecutors Office said. The incident occurred at the intersection of Anderson Avenue and County Road at around 8:45 a.m., said Deputy Chief of Detectives Jeff Angermeyer. The bus was transporting children to Camp Ramaquois in Pomona, New York, on its usual route when it struck the girl, who is not a member of the camp, said Jared Gelb, camp director. No bus occupants were injured. The 14-year-old girl was airlifted to an area hospital, Angermeyer said. She was in serious but stable condition as of Thursday afternoon. The bus driver remained on the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, Angermeyer said. The bus is operated by First Student, Inc. A preliminary investigation suggested there is nothing criminal about the incident, Angermeyer said. We are wishing a speedy and full recovery to the person who was injured, Gelb said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Rebecca Heath may be reached at RHeath@njadvancemedia.com. A former parks and recreation director in Bergen County filed a whistleblower lawsuit Friday against officials in Cresskill, claiming he was fired after pointing out safety issues with the summer camp program. Jason Mitchell states in court papers he clashed with the woman hired to run several small camps in the summer of 2023 and was eventually terminated for airing concerns. The woman who ran the camps is a relative of Councilmember Kathy Savas and allegedly tried to use the connection to ignore Mitchells complaints, according to the lawsuit, filed in Superior Court of Bergen County. Mitchell claims the camp did not maintain appropriate staff-to-children ratios, failed to conduct proper background checks of staff hired to work with children, and didnt have protocols in place to ensure children went home with the correct caregivers. (Mitchell) reasonably believed these issues violated the law and/or the public policy of the State of New Jersey, the suit states. Savas and borough officials did not respond Tuesday to requests for comment on the lawsuit. The lawsuit states Mitchell raised his concerns with Borough Administrator Dianne Lavin, and several supervisors but no adjustments were made. Instead, the woman hired to run the camp allegedly told Mitchell she would use her political power to get Mitchell to stop raising safety issues, the suit says. Lavin, who is named as a defendant, did not respond to a request for comment. The lawsuit also alleges a former elected official with the borough made disparaging remarks about gay people in front of Mitchell, who has a gay brother, the suit states. (Mitchell) reasonably believed that these comments constituted discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, the suit says. The suit states Lavin informed Mitchell in July 2024 that the camp director would return on Aug. 12, 2024, and that borough officials did not wish for (Mitchell) to be employed anymore at that time, the suit states. Mitchell was terminated on Aug. 9, 2024, according to the lawsuit. In addition to wrongful termination, the lawsuit alleges Cresskill violated New Jerseys Conscientious Employee Protection Act, retaliated against Mitchell and allowed a hostile work environment to exist. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. A Camden County government contractor has been accused of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, in addition to weapons and drug offenses, the Camden County Prosecutors Office said. Robert Cormier, 50, of Cherry Hill was charged with second-degree counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute child sexual abuse material, and third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material. He was also charged with seven third-degree counts of possession of destructive devices, second-degree counts of manufacturing and distribution of controlled substances, as well as weapons offenses. A cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on April 8 led to a Snapchat and Gmail account associated with Cormier that possessed and distributed child sexual abuse material, the prosecutors office said. Cormier was arrested on June 13 after briefly barricading himself in a Barrington residence. A search of Cormiers Cherry Hill home, where he ran a government contracting business, led to firearms, large-capacity magazines, bomb making materials and suspected crystal methamphetamine, the prosecutors office said. Authorities also found a bomb disposal robot that belonged to the U.S. Navy. Cormier is being held at the Camden County Correctional Facility pending a court appearance. An attorney for Cormier did not immediately return a request for comment. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. A legally blind woman has filed a lawsuit against Burger King and its franchisee, alleging she was harassed and verbally abused by employees during a visit to a Cumberland County restaurant last year. Jennifer Bartholomew, 50, claims in court papers she was humiliated and denied proper service at the Burger King located on N. High St. in Millville on April 26, 2024. The suit, filed in state court, names Burger King, Inc., franchisee DEVS Foods 3, LLC, and several unnamed individuals and entities as defendants. A spokesperson for Burger King said the company does not comment on pending litigation. A spokesperson for DEVS Foods 3 did not respond to a request for comment. Bartholomew, of Millville, alleges she visited the fast food restaurant and asked for assistance due to her visual impairment. Instead, she received substandard service and was subjected to harassment and verbal assault in front of other patrons and employees, including a store and regional manager, alleges the suit. The complaint asserts that her treatment violated the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, which protects individuals with disabilities in public accommodations. According to the lawsuit, Bartholomew suffered emotional distress, humiliation and long-term psychological harm as a result of the incident. The complaint also claims Burger King failed to properly hire, train, and supervise its employees, and is seeking compensatory damages under multiple legal theories, including negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Bartholomews attorney Christopher T. Karounos, did not respond to requests for comment. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Diamond Tankard, former reality television star and granddaughter of gospel icon Ben Tankard, was arrested after hitting a woman with a rock-filled sock at a Walmart in Tennessee. (Mark DeLong/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images) NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via A former reality show star is now facing legal consequences for her alleged role in a violent fight inside a Walmart. Diamond Tankard, who appeared on Bravo TVs Thicker Than Water," was charged Saturday with theft of property and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by WVLT-TV. The charges stem from an incident in which Tankard, 21, struck a customer with a sock filled with rocks at a Walmart in Nashville, Tenn. Friday. Tankard was caught on video hitting a woman in the face with the rock-filled sock in the checkout lane of the grocery store. Footage of the fight shows Tankard sporting a pink top, pink camouflage pants and an ankle monitor repeatedly striking the victim until she became bloody in the face. Tankard allegedly took the victims $900 Louis Vuitton purse and $1,500 iPhone 14 during the melee, the report said. Paramedics treated the victim at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital for further examination. Tankard, granddaughter of gospeljazz icon Ben Tankard, posted a $25,000 bond and was released later that day. The 21-year-old appeared on the reality show that revolved around her grandfather and family as it ran for three seasons from 2013 to 2016. This is not Tankards first run-in with the law. She was charged with attempted first-degree murder after allegedly hitting a woman with her Range Rover outside a bar in Nashville in 2024. The ankle monitor she was wearing during Fridays occurrence is a result of the 2024 case. The Tennessee native is set to appear in court Aug. 22, according to USA Today. More entertainment news: Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Christopher Burch can be reached at cburch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SwishBurch. Find NJ.comon Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Matt Roloff, the star of TLCs Little People, Big World, and his longtime partner, Caryn Chandler, have split after eight years together. Roloff, 63, shared the tough news via Instagram on Tuesday, July 22. Caryn and I have decided to part ways & end our engagement. Lifes a continued journey and this is the right step for us at this time, he wrote. We remain amicable and will always appreciate the many wonderful memories we have shared. Your support means the world to me and Im committed to moving forward with positivity and trust in the path ahead. Much love to all. Back in April, Roloff shared Instagram photos of him and Chandler smiling together while enjoying a night out at Desert Diamond Casinos. The couple started dating in 2017 and got engaged in April 2023. Before sparking a romantic connection, Roloff and Chandler were friends and colleagues. Chandler managed the Roloff family farm for years. Matt was previously married to Amy Roloff from 1987 to 2016. The exes share four children: twin sons Jeremy and Zach, 35, daughter Molly, 31, and son Jacob, 28. The Roloff familys life was documented on the reality series Little People, Big World from 2006-2024. Matt and Amy both have dwarfism as does their son Zach. Matt and Amys divorce played out on the TLC series. Amy sold her portion of Roloff Farms back to Matt after their split. Matt initially said that he wanted his children to take over the property, but he later butted heads with Zach and while negotiating the sale. Zach also took issue with Chandlers involvement in the dispute. During the final season of Little People, Big World, Zach and his wife, Tori Roloff, stated that they had no plans for Chandler to meet their youngest son, Josiah, who was born in 2022. Zach told cameras that Chandler had interfered with family business. During the series finale of the show, which aired in April 2024, Zach said he doesnt have much of a relationship with his father after the farm dispute. READ MORE: Cosby Show child star dead at 54 Time might even it out, everything will be healed, itll just be different, he said. Roloff Farms is currently for sale. The Hillsboro, Oregon, home and property is listed for $2,895,000. While the other Roloff siblings have moved out, Jacob still lives and works on the farm along with his wife, Isabel, and their 4-year-old son, Mateo. Little People, Big World is available to stream on HBO Max. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/. The family of Amy Bradley, who went missing from a cruise ship in 1998, is still looking for her. Netflix Its been 27 years since Amy Bradley disappeared from the Rhapsody of the Seas Royal Caribbean cruise ship, and her family is still searching for her. Amys parents, Ron and Iva, and brother, Brad Bradley, were all interviewed for the Netflix docuseries Amy Bradley Is Missing, which premiered on July 16, 2025. The family has long been skeptical of the theory that then-23-year-old Amy fell or jumped off the cruise ship. They believe that she could still be alive somewhere. In the docuseries, Ron and Iva said there isnt a day that goes by where they dont think about Amys disappearance. You wake up thinking about it, go to bed thinking about it. Its just, everything around reminds you of her, said Ron. [I think about it] every day, Iva said. Not occasionally, not every other day, not once a month. Every day. Ron and Iva are now in their 70s. They still live in Virginia, and theyre still holding out hope that theyll see Amy again one day. We keep her car in the garage at home, Ron told cameras in the docuseries. We keep it out of the weather and keep it shined up so its going to be pristine when she gets here. And then shell get to drive it again. READ MORE: Binged Amy Bradley Is Missing? Heres 4 other true crime stories to watch (for free) Brad, who was 20 when Amy went missing, is now 47. I dont have children, and Ill be 48 in December. Subconsciously, I think Id have to admit, watching my parents lose a child was so traumatic for me that Im not willing to put myself in a position to go through that, Brad said in Amy Bradley Is Missing. Like his parents, Brad hasnt given up on finding Amy. In June, he launched a GoFundMe page to raise money to pursue credible leads, consult with experts, obtain legal support if needed, and travel wherever necessary to uncover the truth. Brad has also recently become active on X, posting theories and updates about Amys case. Please contact me if you have information or questions I can answer regarding my sister Amys disappearance, his X bio reads. Brad went out partying on the cruise ship with Amy the night before she disappeared. The siblings made it safely back to their familys suite, and Amy told Brad that she was going to sleep on the balcony for the fresh air. READ MORE: Where is Sherri Papini now? An update on the woman who allegedly faked her own kidnapping Ron was the last member of the Bradley family to see Amy alive. At around 5:30 am on the morning of March 24, 1998, Ron saw Amy asleep on the balcony. When he woke up again about half an hour later, Amy was gone. The Bradleys pleaded with cruise ship personnel to wait until Amy was found before letting passengers off the boat at their next stop, Curacao. But that didnt happen. Other guests were able to leave the ship before a thorough search concluded that Amy was nowhere to be found onboard. That made it nearly impossible to determine whether Amy fell or jumped off the boat, walked off herself, or was smuggled off. Multiple people claimed to have seen Amy alive since her disappearance, with reported sightings on Curacao, Barbados, and a website promoting prostitution. The reported sightings could point to Amy being a victim of sex trafficking. We all have this gut feeling that shes out there, Brad said in Amy Bradley Is Missing. Amy Bradley Is Missing is available to stream on Netflix. You can also watch other corresponding coverage about Amy Lynn Bradleys disappearance on Hulu, Peacock, and Sing TV. Over the years, the case has been on several true crime TV shows, like Unsolved Mysteries and Americas Most Wanted, among other programs. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/. 18 1 / 18 Behind The Scenes At AileyCamp Newark AileyCamper Austin Fisher stood in a rehearsal room at Newark Arts High School with dozens of eyes on her, held the barre with her right hand, arched her left arm above her head, and ever so gracefully bent backward at the waist. Austin, 12, a seventh-grader from South Orange, had just executed whats known in dance parlance as a back cambre and bras en couronne. The combination earned her the applause of 20 fellow campers and praise from the national director of AileyCamp, a network of 10 summer dance programs around the country named for the renowned dancer, choreographer and educator Alvin Ailey. How did that feel on your back? asked AileyCamp director, Nasha Thomas, who danced with Aileys troupe from 1986 to 1998. Thats how my back used to be years ago. Thomas, a Queens native who lives in South Plainfield, was visiting the camp in advance of an Aug. 6 performance by AileyCampers at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, an annual event at NJPAC that caps the local camps six-week summer program. The free camps partners are Arts High School, the Newark Board of Education, and NJPAC. Funding for the $250,000 annual program comes mainly from Prudential Financial and the Victoria Foundation, both based in Newark, plus additional donors. There are 85 campers in Newark this year. The first AileyCamp was founded in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1989, the year Ailey died. Newarks program began in 2011. Other camps are in New York, Atlanta, Baltimore, Seattle, Chicago, Miami, Berkeley, California, and Kansas City, Kansas. Dance genres include West African, modern, jazz and ballet. But beyond dance, the camp also offers classes in music, visual arts and personal development, helping kids ages 11 to 14 explore their creativity while developing self-confidence in a warm, respectful, and trusting environment. Classes are broken into groups of 15 to 20 campers each. Dance training or experience is not required to attend. The application process for summer 2024 begins in early spring. Visit the AileyCamp website for more information. Thomas sister, Devone DeNose, happens to be director of visual and performing arts for the Newark Public Schools district. DeNose was hired as an assistant principal at Arts High School after the AileyCamp program began there in 2011. DeNose later became principal of the school, before moving on to her district-wide job. It absolutely was a coincidence, said DeNose, who was at the school on Tuesday. So it was amazing that we were able to work together. On the stage of the Arts High School auditorium, Camila Leon-Gonzalez and Aracely Elise Mestres, who both live in Newark, were among two dozen campers in green AileyCamp T-shirts practicing modern dance steps accompanied by a percussionist. Aracely Elise Mestres, 15, who also lives in Newark, finished 8th grade in June at the districts Benjamin Franklin School and will stay at Arts High this fall, where shell transition from AileyCamper to member of the freshman class. Most dancers here at AileyCamp, and dancers all across the world, find dance as a way to express themselves, Arecly said. I love all dance styles, she added, I love jazz. Its such a fun, funky way to express yourself. Camila, wholl be a freshman at St. Vincent Academy in Newark, said jazz was also her favorite dance form, because of the improvising involved. She said learning individual steps or moves to incorporate them into an improvised sequence is a lesson that transcends dance and can be applied to almost any situation in life. And when youre dancing, Camila added, its not only about dance, because you learn discipline, you learn how to be confident in yourself. So when you go outside in the world, the real world, your confidence is way higher. You know how to walk. You have power within yourself. Nobody knows Jersey better than N.J.com. Sign up to get breaking news alerts straight to your inbox. Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com Filipino cuisine is known for its sweet, sour and savory balance. Jamaican food brings bold spice and heat. What happens when you bring the two cultures together? Bonneys in Metuchen, is writing a flavor story of its own by colliding Filipino and Jamaican cuisines. While husband and wife duo Damion Chambers and Jeanne Jordan opened their Central Jersey restaurant in early July, this isnt the first version of Bonneys. The couple was living in Los Angeles in 2021 when they decided to launch a business of their own one that blended Jordans Filipino roots with Chambers Jamaican heritage and drew on their shared professional kitchen experience. Left: Jeanne Jordan; Right: Damion Chambers. Owners of Bonney's in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni Jordan graduated from The Culinary Institute of America in 2010 and has worked at restaurants in Boston, San Francisco and New York City including two-Michelin starred restaurant Chefs Table at Brooklyn Fare. Chambers has a degree from the French Culinary Institute and has also worked at restaurants in New York City. Bonneys first opened as a street food pop-up in Los Angeles, serving their version of jerk chicken and pork and other small plates that fused both cultures together. It was just an idea, Chambers told NJ Advance Media. We started doing it out of the back of our car. We would drive downtown with all the grills and our boys in the back of our car. The couple moved back to New Jersey in 2022 Jordan is from Clark after her mother passed away. Jordan helped open restaurant and wine bar Justines on Hudson in New York while Chambers stayed home with the kids. But even in a state where no one knew Bonneys, the dream never faded. Bonney's storefront sign in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni Earlier this year, they were strolling through Metuchen and we taken aback by the towns charm. A vacant spot on Main Street sealed the deal. By March, they had the keys in hand. I didnt want Bonneys to be just another Jamaican restaurant, Chambers said. Its meant to be a mix of fusion. As a Filipino-American, Id never seen a mash-up quite like this, so I was curious to see how they would bring it all together. I started with a refreshing sorrel kalamansi juice ($6) a vibrant blend of Jamaican hibiscus tea and Filipino citrus that delivered a satisfyingly tart kick to start the meal. Coconut glazed plantains at Bonney's in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni The coconut-glazed plantains ($10) were beautifully caramelized and topped with slices of jackfruit. The dish struck a balance of nutty and sweet that felt both familiar and surprising. They were like a deconstructed turon, the beloved Filipino dessert consisting of fried banana spring rolls. Their version of lumpia ($7 for three pieces) was a far cry from the traditional take on the dish I grew up with, but was a standout nonetheless. Bonneys swaps the classic filling of ground pork, onions, garlic, carrots, and savory seasonings for curried beef, peas, and mozzarella cheese. They are served with a side of pepper jelly for dipping a bold play that still hits all the right notes. All this led up to the true star of the show: their jerk chicken and pork. Diners can try either on its own for $18, or get a half-and-half plate for $19 served with rice, tomato salad, yams and a selection of house-made sauces. As Jordan explained, this isnt your typical Jamaican jerk. To keep the fusion spirit alive, the meats are marinated in a blend that bridges both cultures: thyme, Scotch bonnets, scallions, garlic, ginger and Datu Puti, a Filipino brand of coconut vinegar. Jerk pork at Bonney's in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni The chicken and the pork came out with just the right amount of char thanks to their kitchens wood-fired grill, which added a nice smokiness on the outside while still preserving a tender, juicy interior. Instead of the fiery heat you might expect from traditional jerk, the spice here leaned into flavor with a deep savory warmth rounded out by the bright, tangy kick of coconut vinegar. But the flavor doesnt stop there. Their sauces one with a fermented chili blend and another made with Scotch bonnet peppers brought serious heat. I have a low spice tolerance, and they nearly brought tears to my eyes (in the best way). Smoked adobo brisket at Bonney's in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni Bonneys also had a special during my visit, a smoked adobo brisket ($22) a take on the beloved Filipino dish that braises meat in a sauce of vinegar, soy sauce, peppercorns and bay leaves. The delicate brisket infused those classic flavors but with an added smoky depth that made the savory flavor more deep and rich. The restaurant also offers a small selection of desserts. The sweet corn tiramisu ($8) layered mascarpone cheese and ladyfingers with a pronounced corn flavor a playful, unexpected twist on the classic Italian treat. Jordan says that dessert is a recipe inspired from her mom, who used to make corn cake for every family function. The minimalist atmosphere in the restaurant had plenty of seating inside and outside of the restaurant, dotted with colors of green and yellow throughout the space. Inside Bonney's in Metuchen, NJ (Lauren Musni|NJ Advance Media) Lauren Musni Fusion has become all too prevalent in the industry in recent years, and it certainly isnt an easy concept to pull off without feeling contrived. But Bonneys doesnt just pull it off Jordan and Chambers make it feel natural. They arent forcing flavors together for noveltys sake, theyve created a menu where Caribbean and Filipino ingredients speak the same language. Its thoughtful, personal and refreshingly original in an industry where fusion can often feel gimmicky. The couple says theyre planning to add more personal touches to the space, along with new, innovative dishes that will roll out as rotating specials. They dont have set hours yet, but they regularly post updates on their Instagram page about opening times, specials, and menu changes. This is more than a restaurant its a dream come true, a love letter to our roots and a promise to our kids," Jordan said. Lastly, (its) a dedication to my mom who taught us the importance of cooking from the heart is always felt with every bite. Related coverage Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Lauren Musni may be reached at lmusni@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Laurengmusni and on Instagram. FindNJ.comon Facebook. Former New York Giants LB Lorenzo Carter has retired. Lori M. Nichols | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Just before the Tennessee Titans began training camo, veteran edge rusher Lorenzo Carter retired. The team announced the news on Tuesday. He notified us yesterday that he will be retiring, Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi said. We wish him well. Carter,29, was a third-round draft pick of the Giants in 2018 out of Georgia, taken with the 66th overall pick. He played four seasons in New York before signing with the Atlanta Falcons during his free agency in 2022. He spent three years there and signed with the Titans in March of this year. Across 96 career games (62 starts) Carter recorded 278 tackles with 21.5 sacks,18 passes defensed, five forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Carter participated in the Titans offseason program, attending OTAs and minicamp before his retirement this week. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Bridget Hyland may be reached at bhyland@njadvancemedia.com. Aleh Shamko, 34, was seriously injured when a skydiving plane crashed July 2 in Gloucester County. (Provided Photo/Aleh Shamko) One moment, Aleh Shamko was strapped into his seat in a skydiving plane that was making an emergency landing in Gloucester County. The next moment, he was outside the crumpled aircraft with a badly mangled leg that he thought he might lose. At first, he felt nothing. Soon, he was screaming in pain. Shamko, a skydiving instructor, was aboard the plane carrying 15 people that crashed into a wooded area while attempting an emergency landing at Cross Keys Airport in Monroe Township on July 2. There were two pilots and 13 skydivers onboard. Some were seriously injured. But all survived. After seven surgeries, Shamkos leg is slowly mending and he hopes to be able to skydive again in a year. He remains in pain most of the time, he said, speaking from Cooper University Hospital in Camden. The doctors did a great job on putting it together. It doesnt look great still, but its there, he said of his leg. And Im going to walk and jump again soon. Firefighters responded after a small aircraft crashed just off the runway at Cross Keys Airport on July 2. Dave Hernandez | For NJ Advance Shamko described the close-knit skydiving community at Cross Keys as a family and said hes eager to return. The single-engine Cessna 208B operated by Skydive Cross Keys took off from the airport at 5:14 p.m. and had reached an altitude of 3,000 feet when the engine lost power, according to a preliminary report issued last week by the National Transportation Safety Board. The pilot brought the plane back to the airport and attempted to land, but the aircraft touched down near the end of the runway, the report said. The airplane approached the runway fast, floated, and touched down near the end. It traveled off the end of the runway and collided with trees about 700 feet beyond the runway, the report said. The plane continued about 250 feet through the trees before coming to a stop, according to investigators. Ten passengers and two crew members suffered serious injuries, while the three other passengers reported minor injuries, the agency said. The cause of the engine failure remains under investigation. This image taken from video provided by WPVI-TV/6ABC shows a small skydiving aircraft that went off the end of a runway at Cross Keys Airport in Gloucester County. AP Shamko had already done one tandem jump with a customer that day and was headed up for his second jump when trouble began, he said. There was some weird sound when we went up but I never knew exactly what happened, he said. He declined to elaborate on what occurred in the plane because of the ongoing investigation. He vividly recalls the harrowing emergency landing. The last thing I remember is two seconds before it happened, I realized, Oh my God, we are moving too fast on the runway, he said. I knew were gonna be in trouble in like two seconds and then it happened. I remember a loud sound. Then, he was in the woods. I appeared outside of the plane. No idea how it happened, he said. Shamko looked down at his mangled right leg. The end of my ankle was barely connected to the rest of the leg, he said. I knew right away, no more leg for me, but doctors saved it. Another jumper came up to him to try and help with his injury. Dude, were alive. Youre good. Breathe, his friend assured him. The fellow skydiver was in his underwear and Shamko later realized it was because he was using his clothing as tourniquets to treat the injured. Shamko remained conscious throughout the experience, but some pieces are still hazy. My body started to feel weak. At some point I started screaming because of the pain, he said. Aleh Shamko takes his first unassisted steps in the hospital as he recovers from the July 2 plane crash in Gloucester County. (Provided Photo/Aleh Shamko) Rescuers quickly arrived at the crash scene and a police officer put a tourniquet on his leg. Emergency responders worked to get everyone from the woods to waiting helicopters and ambulances. Shamko celebrated his 34th birthday in the hospital on July 11. He hopes to go home to Philadelphia sometime this week to continue his recovery. One other skydiver from the crash remains hospitalized in Camden with a leg injury more serious than his own, according to Shamko. This is my coworker and my friend and Im really scared for him, he said. Shamkos mother and father still live in his native Belarus and theyve been speaking each day with him via video calls. They came to visit in March and his dad joined him for a tandem skydive. While theyre worried for his safety, theyve been supportive. Weve got a great relationship. Ive got a lot of support from them, Shamko said. He also has his Belarusian and Ukrainian friends cheering him on as he recovers, he said. Skydiving began as a hobby for Shamko and he parlayed that into a job at Skydive Cross Keys, where hes worked as an instructor for a little more than two years. I like to say I turned my hobby into a full-time job, he said. Friends helped Aleh Shamko celebrate his 34th birthday at Cooper University Hospital as he recovered from the July 2 crash of a skydiving plane in Gloucester County. (Provided Photo/Aleh Shamko) His first skydiving experience was in his hometown of Minsk for his 20th birthday. It was a bucket-list moment, he said. He came to the United States eight years ago and got the idea to try another jump at Cross Keys. He was hooked. That was awesome. The moment of leaving the plane, the entire jump and then the minute of free fall. I loved it so much, he said. Its hard to explain. Youve gotta go do it to understand. His fellow skydivers at Cross Keys arent just co-workers, he said. Theyre a big family united by their love of skydiving. Thats what we call each other. Not just people from work. Its not jumpers. Were all family, he said. Cross Keys is a great place with great people. Hes been amazed by the support from friends, colleagues and complete strangers who have pitched in to help those injured in the crash. A GoFundMe had raised more than $35,000 for the injured as of Tuesday. A separate GoFundMe was created to help the other skydiver who remains hospitalized. He could end up losing his leg, according to a family member who created that fundraiser. Everyone Shamko knows who was involved in the crash is ready to jump again as soon as they are able. Lessons will be learned from the crash, he said, but it wont turn anyone off from their beloved sport. Thats my favorite thing to do. Were all gonna jump again, he said. Skydiving is not gonna stop because of it. We just need to learn for this not to happen again. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. The state's Office of Innovation helps sign up thousands of children for a summer food benefit. Canva When the Department of Agriculture wanted to identify and enroll thousands of children who were eligible for a summer food benefit, it contacted the Office of Innovation, an entity established six years ago to optimize the delivery of government services. The department had already added thousands of children to the program but needed additional technological support to sift through different databases and new applications to find more children who hadnt received the benefit, according to Rose Chamberlain, director at the state Department of Agricultures Division of Food and Nutrition. Thats where the Office of Innovation came in. Our goal here is to really make it as easy as possible for families so that they dont have to take an extra step, said Dave Cole, chief innovation officer at the state Office of Innovation. The goal is if you get school meals during the year or you get SNAP or Medicaid, you will get this grocery benefit. The NJ Summer EBT Program is a federally funded program managed by the state Department of Agriculture that gives low-income children a one-time $120 EBT card during the summer. The program is designed to bridge the gap during the summer for children who rely on free and reduced school meals, Chamberlain said. Children who receive other state benefits, such as Medicaid, are eligible for the NJ Summer EBT Program. The various state benefits are managed and distributed by different government entities. For example, the state Department of Human Services manages Medicaid. People can also apply for the summer program through their local school district. Last year, over about six months, the Office of Innovation worked with the Agriculture Department to collect data from various agencies. It then used statistical pattern finding, a type of artificial intelligence, to identify eligible children that the department had not caught the first time it enrolled kids, and check to see if new applicants had already received the benefit. In 2024, the Office of Innovation identified 106,000 eligible children, or about 15% of the benefits recipients, who the Department of Agriculture automatically enrolled and distributed $12.8 million in benefits to. As of June, the department had already identified 76,000 children, or about 11% of the total benefits recipients, who the Department of Agriculture automatically enrolled and distributed $9.1 million in benefits to. It would have been impossible to complete this task without using statistical analysis, Cole said. The Office of Innovation used free and low-cost resources to keep the programs costs down, he said. Sarah Geiger, senior director of programs and services at the Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken, said its a great use of government resources. We applaud them for using technology in a smart and responsible way, Geiger said. There are definitely children and families who qualify for the program, for free and reduced lunch, but they werent participating in it. Finding these families and automatically enrolling them reduces many barriers that lower-income families can face, Geiger said. It also allows organizations that enroll families for benefits to reallocate the resources they spend getting families signed up, she said. We have 300 community partners we work with to distribute food out into the community, to engage them, Geiger said. Theyre doing so much work already distributing food. You can only get so far, and youre not going to be able to reach everybody. The newer approach just reduced all of those barriers not only for the end user, Geiger added. But also for all the people within this very many-layered system of people, whether its through the food banks or other partner organizations. She hopes to see this technology used to enroll people in other benefit programs automatically. Cole said the Office of Innovations work on the NJ Summer EBT Program could make that a reality. He said the Office of Innovation is in talks with other agencies to repurpose the code for other programs. There are a lot of privacy issues to work through. There are a lot of security issues to work through. Those are very important, Cole said. But what we would like to do is offer residents in the state the option to have very proactive automatic support from the state wherever possible. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Amira Sweilem may be reached at asweilem@njadvancemedia.com. The U.S. State Department is warning tourists "not to travel" to sections of Haiti due to rising terrorist attacks. Canva If youre thinking of traveling to Haiti anytime soon, take note that this might be a country you want to avoid. The U.S. State Department reissued its highest travel advisory to the Caribbean nation of Haiti, warning Americans not to travel there for any reason. It also advises any nonessential U.S. government employees and family members should leave the country immediately, if they are there now. Here is what you need to know about the travel advisory and why the U.S. government is saying you shouldnt travel there. What does the latest travel advisory to Haiti mean to you? Item Detail Start Date July 15, 2025 Whats changing Updated travel advisory warning people not to travel to Haiti for any reason due to kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest and limited health care. Also, new information warning tourists not to travel through the border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. What will happen? Travelers should not travel to Haiti for any reason and U.S. government employees and their families already there should leave immediately because of security risks in the country. Who will it affect? Travelers to Haiti The agency gave a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory to Haiti due to the kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest and limited health care in the country. The State Department especially warned Americans not to cross the land border between Haiti and the Dominican Republic due to kidnapping and violence risks. There was also an additional warning from the agency that the U.S. Embassy would not help U.S. citizens who try to cross into the Dominican Republic at unofficial border crossings due to the high immigration fines they could face when trying to leave. What is the highest travel advisory? There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4. When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination. So, which level is the most concerning? Level 1 : Exercise Normal Precautions This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit. Level 2 : Exercise Increased Caution There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution. Level 3 : Reconsider Travel There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination. Level 4: Do Not Travel This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency. What should travelers to Haiti do in light of this travel advisory? The U.S. State Department warns people who do not heed the travel advisory to do the following: Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media. Make arrangements for hotel/airport transfers in advance or have someone meet you. Keep your travel documents in order. Make plans to evacuate without the assistance of U.S. government officials. Bring an adequate supply of prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you need. If you are being followed as you leave the airport, drive to the nearest police station immediately. Be in contact with your family or host organization. Draft a will, put your financial affairs in order and let your family know about funeral wishes. Leave DNA samples with your health care provider for your loved ones. Dont travel alone and always travel by vehicle when possible with the doors locked. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. You can find more details about the travel advisory and how to remain safe while traveling here. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) called for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files on Wednesday. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) AP Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) may make President Donald Trump mad once again. During an event hosted by Axios on Wednesday, Tillis joined a handful of congressional Republicans in calling on the Trump administration to release the damn Jeffrey Epstein files. Look, it makes no sense to me, Tillis said. One of two things is true, I believe: either its a nothing burger... or its something really disturbing, and thats actually even a more compelling reason to release it, he continued. Thom Tillis on Epstein: "Release the damn files ... this nonsense of, 'Well, we gotta protect the innocent.' That's called redaction. We do that all the time. That's kind of a fake, or bad reason to stop something that you don't want to happen." pic.twitter.com/w4QRGjW6LM Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 23, 2025 Tillis added that a redaction would squash what he described as nonsense claims that the administration has to protect the innocent witnesses. Thats sort of a fake, a bad reason for trying to stop something that you dont want to happen, Tillis said, adding Let the sun shine through. His comments come as House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday confirmed that the lower chamber would not vote on any measure related to Epstein before departing on recess until September. House Republicans had offered a non-binding resolution last week that demands the release of documents tied to the sex-trafficking case. Meanwhile, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced hours earlier that the Justice Department is seeking an interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins former girlfriend, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2022 for helping him sexually abuse underage girls. While Trump said that the decision sounds appropriate to do, critics claim that he has attempted to distract from his administrations handling of a memo tied to the case, which found that the convicted sex offender did not keep a client list, blackmail public figures or was murdered in his jail cell while awaiting trial in 2019. The new findings have resulted in an uproar from the presidents own base many of whom have renewed calls to make the government files public and have led to him claiming that he no longer wants support from those who are invested. He had also ordered Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of grand jury testimony, but called it a SCAM that is perpetuated by the Democrats. Tillis, who recently announced that he would not seek reelection, had first made headlines after he ripped Trumps big, beautiful bill, which was signed into law earlier this month, before it came to a vote in the upper chamber. Tillis warned the president that he would make a mistake on health care and betraying a promise if the GOPs budget megabill were to pass. Im telling the president that you have been misinformed, Tillis said on the Senate floor. You supporting the Senate mark will hurt people who are eligible and qualified for Medicaid. Tillis opposition prompted Trump to make a number of social media posts targeting the GOP lawmaker even one threatening to support a primary challenger against him. Thom Tillis has hurt the great people of North Carolina... Tillis is a talker and complainer, NOT A DOER! Hes even worse than Rand Fauci Paul! Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. Trump had also celebrated the news of his retirement. Great News! Senator Thom Tillis will not be seeking reelection, he said in a post. Tillis had since fired back at some of Trumps online threats: I never read it, but I saw like the first sentence. I told the president in another text, I said, Now its time to start looking for my replacement because I dont deal with that kind of bulls---. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon (left) is joined by Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli after being announced as Jack's Lt. Governor pick at a press conference at Johnnies Tavern in Boonton on Wednesday morning. 07/23/2025 Steve Hockstein | For NJ Advance Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican nominee for New Jersey governor, announced Wednesday his running mate will be Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon, a veteran law enforcement official in a county critical to his hopes of winning in November. As Ciattarellis choice for lieutenant governor, Gannon will run alongside him in the heated battle to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy. Ciattarelli, a former member of the state Assembly, is running against Democratic nominee Mikie Sherrill, a U.S. congresswoman, in the November election. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard arrives before President Donald Trump speaks during a reception for Republican members of Congress in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP MAGA world is sending support to National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard amid her bombshell claims against former President Barack Obama. The Justice Department on Monday confirmed it had received Gabbards criminal referral after she alleged that Obama administration officials had manufactured and politicized intelligence to undermine Trumps 2016 presidential election victory. She argues that documents show that Russia did not attempt to influence the election in favor of Trump, despite several investigations that found otherwise. During remarks to reporters on Tuesday, Trump accused Obama of committing treason, claiming that his predecessor had rigged both the 2016 and 2020 elections against him. He made those accusations after pivoting when asked about late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein a topic that has caused an uproar among his own base against his administration in recent weeks. After what they did to me and whether its right or wrong, its time to go after people. Obamas been caught directly, Trump said. Obamas office issued a rare rebuke against Trumps claims hours later, writing in a statement that These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. MAGA faithful have since backed Gabbard, with journalist Nick Sortor leading the charge on X late Tuesday. I dont think people realize just how much danger Tulsi Gabbard is putting herself in by exposing the deep state at this level. ESPECIALLY someone like Barack Obama, Sortor wrote. This is what a TRUE patriot looks like. God bless you, @TulsiGabbard, he continued, adding the praying hands emoji. I dont think people realize just how much danger Tulsi Gabbard is putting herself in by exposing the deep state at this level. ESPECIALLY someone like Barack Obama. This is what a TRUE patriot looks like. God bless you, @TulsiGabbard pic.twitter.com/sB4XEtcvLL Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) July 23, 2025 Far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones responded, Dead on! Pray for @TulsiGabbard, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) added. Influencer Gunther Eagleman said: Keep her protected at ALL costs. May God continue to protect Tulsi Gabbard, one user wrote, and another used the hashtag #protectTulsi. Someone also claimed that They are going to come at her hard with more fabricated stories. During a later event with congressional Republicans on Tuesday, Trump had praised Gabbard with a superlative and again claimed that Obama was involved in an effort to rig the elections. Shes like, hotter than everybody. Shes the hottest one in the room right now, Trump said of Gabbard. Speaker, shes hotter than you right now, speaker. Shes the hottest person in the room right now, speaker, he added, to roaring laughter. Trump has appeared to use the timing of Gabbards treasonous conspiracy revelation to divert attention from his administrations handling of the so-called Epstein files. Frustration from the presidents supporters, some congressional Republicans and Democrats alike ignited after the Justice Department and FBI concluded in a memo earlier this month that Epstein did not keep a client list, blackmail public figures or was murdered in his jail cell while awaiting trial in 2019. She has all the documents, she has everything that you need, Trump said during the event. Youve found things that nobody thought wed ever find. Very happy and very honored to have you with us. Earlier on Tuesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that the lower chamber would not vote on any measures related to the convicted sex offender before departing until September. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, meanwhile, announced that the DOJ is seeking an interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins former girlfriend who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2022 for helping him sexually abuse underage girls. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. A little-known Democrat has flipped the script on President Donald Trump. During an interview on MSNBCs The Briefing with Jen Psaki, Texas State Rep. James Talarico (D) made a bombshell claim about the president. Donald Trump is attempting to rig the next election, Talarico told Jen Psaki Tuesday night. In signing the big, beautiful bill into law earlier this month, Talarico said that Trump and congressional Republicans passed the largest transfer of wealth in American history, adding that they are kicking millions off of health care to fund tax cuts for billionaires. According to an estimate from the Congressional Budget Office, around 10 million more people are at risk for losing health insurance over the next decade. They know its unpopular, but they dont care, Talarico said. Because they have a plan. Talarico, who was recently told by podcaster Joe Rogan that he should run for president in 2028, pointed to Trumps request for Texas lawmakers to pick up five more Republican House seats through redrawing the states congressional district map. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) was initially hesitant about the plan, while members in the GOP congressional delegation were also worried that map-drawers could spread their voters too thin, The Texas Tribune reported. Talarico framed the plan as a means for the president and Republicans to protect their majority, no matter what the election outcomes are. This is the rot at the core of our broken political system politicians choosing their voters, instead of voters picking their politicians, Talarico said, adding that In any other industry, this would be called a conflict of interest. He emphasized that Texas Democrats will work to stop this power grab, warning that the redistricting plan could take place in other red states across the country. He said that as the states minority party for decades, Democrats have learned how to push back against the Republican legislative agenda, whether through the House rules, using their platforms or denying quorum, which is the minimum number of members that must be present at meetings to make its proceedings valid. Talarico also pledged to talk with his colleagues to figure out how to move forward. Abbott summoned a special session of the 89th Legislature, which first convened on Monday, to discuss disaster recovery after the states deadly floods, THC regulations and redistricting, among other priorities. He has since confirmed that state legislators will follow through with remaking the congressional district map. The states decision to proceed comes years after GOP legislators adopted a new redistricting plan following the 2020 Census. Republicans currently hold 25 of the states 38 seats, and Democrats control 12. The death of Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner in March has left one seat open. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. President Donald Trump speaks during a reception for Republican members of Congress in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Washington. AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson President Donald Trump made an outrageous claim about lowering the cost of prescription drugs during a meeting with members of Congress on Tuesday. On Tuesday, Trump claimed that he could lower drug prices by 1500%a mathematically impossible number since it suggests drug companies would be paying the consumer to take the drug. Many critics immediately roasted the president on social media platform X, explaining that Trumps math was not adding up. This is something that nobody else can do. Were going to get the drug prices down, not 30 or 40%, which would be great, not 50 or 60, Trump said on Tuesday. No, were going to get them down 1000%, 600%, 500%, 1500%. Numbers that are not even thought to be achievable because Ive used a certain talent that I have and convinced the drug companies that have no choice, he added. Trump: This is somebody nobody else can do. I can get the drug prices down 1000% 600% 500% 1500%. Numbers that are not even thought to be achievable. pic.twitter.com/NPMMdEZIot Acyn (@Acyn) July 23, 2025 Social media users mocked the president over his math skills on Tuesday. One user wrote: If you reduced the price of a product by 1,000 percent, youd be paying people money to buy your product. Example: A 1,000 pct discount on a $1 product = $9 to the buyer. Overall, not a great retail strategy. MeidasTouch wrote on X: Hard to imagine this guy was found liable of fraud for making up numbers. Universal Prescription Income. Your move, Yang, reporter Roger Sollenberger quipped on X, referencing businessman Andrew Yangs universal basic income proposal during the 2020 election. And Trump critic Ron Filipkowski jabbed Trump over his repeated promises to get stuff done in two weeks. Trump has repeatedly vowed to lower the cost of prescription drugsa campaign promise that is typically spearheaded by Democrats. The president signed an executive order in May that set a 30-day deadline for drugmakers to willingly lower the cost of prescription drugs in the U.S. or possible deal with new limits over what the government will pay. Trump has touted a so-called most favored nation approach to Medicare drug pricing, meaning that he wants the U.S. to only pay a lower price that other countries pay for some drugs. The order calls on the health department, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to broker new pricetags for drugs over the next month. If deals are not reached, Kennedy will be tasked with developing a new rule that ties the price the U.S. pays for medications to lower prices paid by other countries. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. David C. Shroitman enters the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville for a detention hearing on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024. Shroitman is accused of killing anti-drug crusader Maryrose Fealey. (Alexander Lewis / My Central Jersey) Alexander Lewis / My Central Jersey The Somerset County Prosecutors Office on Tuesday formally asked a judge to reconsider his ruling that David C. Shroitman is mentally incompetent to stand trial for the murder of Somerville anti-drug activist Maryrose Fealey. The family and friends of the slain woman came to Superior Court in Somerville dressed in black as Judge Peter J. Tober listened to oral arguments on the states motion that Shroitman is well enough to participate in his own defense. The defendant demonstrated a rational intent, Tyrrell told the judge, alluding to Shroitmans actions before and after the Jan. 30, 2024 homicide, in which Fealey was stabbed 37 times outside her Somerville apartment by a man captured on video wearing a mask who fled in the darkness. Shroitman sat passively in court wearing the yellow jumpsuit of an inmate at the Morris County Jail. He didnt speak and mostly stared straight ahead while his attorney, Shannon Dolan, tried to persuade the judge that her client isnt fit to stand trial. In April, Tober ordered Shroitman be confined to the Ann Klein Forensic Center for further psychiatric evaluation. But Shroitman remains in the Morris County Jail because theres isnt a bed available at Ann Klein. Convinced that Shroitman is competent to stand trial, Fealeys supporters have planted roses all around Somerville and started a Facebook page, 100 Voices for Maryrose. Theyve sent letters to elected officials and the Somerset County Prosecutors Office to keep the pressure on getting the judge to revisit his decision. After listening to oral arguments, the judge said he would release a written decision later this week. Shroitman and Fealey both graduated from Somerville High School in 2014. The prosecution contends that while they knew each other from school, they were not close friends. Both finished college, and Fealey went on to obtain a degree from Rutgers Business School in 2018. According to her obituary, she began working in logistics for the Naval Surface Warfare Center, but quit the job when she became deeply involved in the opioid recovery movement in Somerset County. Fealeys brother had suffered from opioid dependency and she made a documentary about it. She founded her own non-profit, 4 The Younger Me, and worked with another group, Not An Easy Fix, that supported people in recovery. Maryrose Fealey, a Somerville resident, a visual artist who volunteer with No Easy Fix, a non-profit that helps people recover from opioid addiction. Photo courtesy of the Bridgewater Funeral Home Several people wore Not An Easy Fix t-shirts to court on Tuesday, while others donned a red rose. Seated in the front row was Fealeys mother, Janet Pizzelli, her father, Jim, and her brother, Ian. According to the arrest affidavit, Shroitman initially refused to talk to detectives when they visited him at a business in Bridgewater on Feb. 2, 2024, three days after the killing. But they noticed a white garbage bag slung over the drivers seat and a black gaiter on the passenger side. Detectives returned two days later as Shroitman was cleaning his car with bleach at a Somerville business. After getting a warrant they searched his apartment and found what the affidavit described as a manifesto that laid out a step-by-step plan for the homicide. Shroitman, of Somerville, was arrested six days after the homicide and charged with murder. Three months later, a Somerset County grand jury indicted Shroitman for murder, hindering apprehension, unlawful weapons possession, and stalking. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. A track guide rail, similar to the one next to the shiny rail, needs to be replaced in PATH's recently installed track interlocking system between Hoboken Terminal and the Hudson River tunnels. A guide rail in the new interlocking was blamed for a July 12, 2025 derailment. Jeff Rhode | Advance Media Commuters using PATH trains between Hoboken and New York will continue to experience delays until Labor Day while crews work to replace parts of a new track junction following the July 12 derailment. The complicated junction of tracks between the station and the Hudson River tunnel, known as an interlocking, was replaced in February as part of a $31 million Hoboken Terminal rehabilitation project. We sincerely appreciate our riders patience, and we expect speed restrictions in and out of Hoboken station to be in effect until after Labor Day weekend, Seth Stein, a PATH spokesperson, said. During that time, we will make alternate travel options available as needed. On July 12, the last car of a train arriving in Hoboken derailed at 11:06 a.m. due to a malfunctioning track switch. That caused a half day long suspension of PATHs 33rd Street line, leading to overcrowding on the World Trade Center to Newark line. The ongoing issue has also resulted in very slow speeds for trains entering and leaving Hoboken. Out of an abundance of caution, we are moving trains at slower speeds in and out of Hoboken. These speed restrictions will continue until replacement parts are fabricated, shipped, and installed, Stein said. Repair work has been ongoing, resulting in some delays and longer 10-minute waits between trains for commuters during rush hours, a two minute increase. Our investigation currently suggests that the derailment may have been caused or exacerbated by the design of a guard rail, a component of the new interlocking installed at Hoboken in February, Stein said. The interlocking contains multiple railroad track switches that allows trains in and out of Hoboken Terminal to switch between one of three tracks in the station. The guard rail is located next to the rail on which train wheels travel. Its job is to prevent derailments and minimize tunnel damage in the event of a derailment. The guard rail needs to be replaced before normal PATH service can resume, officials said. Any failure of the new equipment is unacceptable, and we have brought in outside experts to prevent a future recurrence of these malfunctions, Stein said. The interlocking was replaced during the $31 million PATH Forward rehabilitation project that closed PATHs Hoboken Terminal station for 26 days. Hoboken PATH also serves NJ Transit suburban rail commuters, in addition to bus and light rail riders. Trains are currently using Tracks 2 & 3, as the damaged part of the interlocking leads to Track 1, Stein said. Other interlocking components that were not blamed for the derailment may have also been improperly designed and need to be replaced, such as the track switch points, officials said. Switch points are the front of the moveable tracks that allow a train to change tracks. The interlocking manufacturer is already fabricating new components, officials said. Other issues include more warping than was expected as the tracks on the newly installed interlocking settled on the stone bed that supports it, officials said. The process is similar to how a road settles after a section has been dug up for utility work. The interlocking has been regularly examined and stone ballast under the rails tamped down by hand as needed, officials said. New tracks in the interlocking, just like a newly built building, settle over time, causing them to warp. While the warping was more than expected, officials said they anticipated warping generally and have been regularly examining and hand-tamping as needed. On Monday, PATH announced that NJ Transit would cross honor PATH tickets on rail and light rail trains from select stations until Friday night, July 25th. PATH riders also may buy discounted $3 NY Waterway ferry tickets during the commuting rush, with proof from PATHs mobile app, until 7:30 p.m., Friday July 25th. PATH also has deployed additional staff on the platforms at Hoboken to monitor crowding and provide alternate travel options as needed, officials said. The new interlocking, installed in February, is a completely unique, custom piece designed and fabricated for our system, officials said. It replaced a 117-year-old interlocking. Complicating its design and the repair effort are the sharp turns and narrow tunnel walls to and from Hoboken, officials said. The ongoing issues brought criticism from advocates whove demanded more frequent mid-day and weekend PATH service to match ridership. They presented a 5,000 signatures on a petition and on letters to Port Authority officials in May. PATH Forward will mean more reliable rides, but also asks our riders to bear with us as we carry out significant work on the system to make that a reality, Stein said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X@CommutingLarry and on BlueSky@commutinglarry.bsky.social They did not, in fact, kill Kenny. Probably. Rumors of South Park season 27s demise have (likely) been exaggerated. After last weeks dramatic contract dispute, the shows removal from Paramount Plus, and a delay, South Park is set to return to Comedy Central on Wednesday, July 23 at 10 p.m. You can watch live as it premieres on Philo (free trial) or DirecTV (free trial) or Fubo TV (free trial) or Sling TV (half off first month). It appears that the episode will be entitled Sermon on the Mount, and will feature the character of Jesus returning to give the residents of South Park an important message. Philo (free trial) Philo offers a 7-day free trial Buy Now South Park is one of the longest-running animated comedies in television history. The story follows 4th graders Cartman, Kyle, Stan, and Kenny as they get into various extreme hijinks around the small, titular Colorado town they live in. Most of the shows iconic cast of characters are voiced by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators and writers of the series, themselves. Heres a look at the teaser for season 27 of South Park, courtesy of the shows official YouTube channel: When is South Park actually on? After all its delays and confusion, the latest season of South Park will premiere at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23. It will lead into a new episode of Digman! at 10:30 p.m. How to watch South Park online on-demand This is where the situation gets a little confusing. As of this moment, South Park is not available on Paramount Plus, but it is available on HBO Max. However, according to several sources, after the premiere, the show will return to Paramount Plus and will no longer be available on HBO Max. Regardless of how the situation plays out across the rest of July, an easy, surefire way to watch the latest episode of the show when it premieres is to sign up for Philo, which is fast, sleek, and easy to use. Streaming Service Cost Free Trial? Philo $28 Yes DIRECTV $74.99 Yes Fubo TV $84.99 Yes Sling TV $45-$60 No Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Joseph Rejent covers TV, writing about live television, streaming services and cord-cutting. He can be reached at jrejent@njadvancemedia.com. The suspended Devon and Cornwall Chief Constable Will Kerr OBE KPM has announced his retirement, agreed by mutual consent with Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez. It brings to an end the saga of three police chiefs with Mr Kerr suspended in July 2023, his replacement as acting chief Jim Colwell suspended in November 2024 also since cleared and now with Acting Chief Constable James Vaughan holding the fort. With the officers suspended on full pay, Commissioner Hernandez had previously said it was costing tax payers as much as 64,000 a month to employ three chiefs. READ MORE: Three police chiefs cost taxpayers dearly Mr Kerr took on the role in March 2023 but was suspended in July that year and has remained suspended ever since. It followed allegations of misconduct said to have occurred when he was a former assistant chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, but in April this year the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in Northern Ireland decided not to prosecute and the criminal investigation was dropped. Mr Kerr still faces investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in England, which was Ms Hernandezs office said today (July 23) was not related to the criminal allegations investigated in Northern Ireland. READ MORE: Criminal investigation dropped against former Devon police chief The former chief constable said today he believed the accusations in Northern Ireland were malicious criminal allegations but said he had now decided it was in the best interests of his family and Devon and Cornwall Police that he retired. He added: After nearly 36 years of public service, this is not the way I would have chosen to retire but the force and communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, deserve stable leadership in policing. I remain a strong advocate for effective accountability in policing, but that accountability process must be fair, timely and proportionate. Sadly, like too many other officers, that has not been my experience over the past two years. I continue to wish all of the highly committed officers and staff in Devon and Cornwall Police well and despite the personal challenges of the past few years, I remain proud of the value of community-focussed policing and a firm supporter of the people within its ranks. I would also like to thank PCC Alison Hernandez for her consistent support over the past two years and her commitment to fair and proportionate justice. Commissioner Hernandez said suspension from duty is a neutral act and said there was always a presumption of innocence unless proven otherwise. She said Mr Kerrs departure from the force was now in the best interests of all parties but echoed his comments about the time the various investigations had taken. She added: Mr Kerrs skills and experience will be a loss to UK policing. I remain frustrated at the amount of time this investigation has taken and the way that cross jurisdictional issues have lengthened the process during separate investigations by the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland and now the IOPC. His departure does not signal guilt, but instead a deep appreciation of the need for Devon and Cornwall Police to move forward with stable leadership from a substantive chief constable. James Vaughan will continue as interim chief constable until a new recruitment process is complete. In accordance with police misconduct regulations, the investigations will continue. Meanwhile, former acting chief constable Jim Colwell has been found guilty of misconduct by a police disciplinary tribunal. The current Deputy Chief Constable will continue in his role but has been given a written warning that will be in effect for 18 months after it was determined he breached the forces notifiable associations policy. It is understood this relates to failing to notify he had exchanged messages with a journalist. DCC Colwell had already been cleared of claims he had used his mobile phone to send personal messages, with the police watchdog saying there was no case to answer. READ MORE: Police watchdog says top-ranked Devon officer has no case to answer Above: Deputy Chief Constable Jim Colwell is now back at work after being cleared of more serious misconduct allegations. WHEATFIELD "You are a miracle." The specific words varied throughout the afternoon, but the message was the same. Brieonna Cassell's story has touched everyone who has heard it. On Saturday, at American Legion Post No. 406 in Wheatfield, her family and friends from virtually every part of her present and past hosted a benefit dinner and auction fundraiser for the 41-year-old woman who defied all odds when she spent six days trapped in her car in a Newton County ditch, her and her mangled body waiting, hoping and praying for someone to find her. The money will go toward Cassell's medical bills and future physical and mental therapy sessions. One pork roast, poker run and silent auction later, approximately 160 people had helped raise a total of about $11,000 for Cassell. On March 5, Cassell fell asleep on her drive home from Rensselaer to Sheldon, Illinois. Her car drove off County Road 600 South and over a creek into the Battleday Ditch. It slammed into the steep embankment on the other side of the flowing water. The car's center console popped out of its place, her tires burst and her windshield shattered into a spider's web of splintered glass. She suffered compound fractures of the tibia and fibula in both legs, degloved her right ankle, dislocated both knees, blew out her right knee, broke ribs two through nine and compound fractured her wrist all at once. For six days, Cassell survived on nothing but creek water and a fierce will to live. Saturday's benefit included a dramatic and emotional moment when the two men who found and rescued her saving her life met Cassell for the first time since that fortunate day in March. That day, Johnny Martinez was working for Deyoung Drainage doing ditch assessments when he came across Cassell's stranded car. Martinez called his supervisor, Jeremy Vanderwall fire chief at the Morocco Volunteer Fire Department who came down and ran to the wreck. Minutes later, first responders descended on the scene and Cassell was airlifted to a Chicago hospital. Vanderwall said he drove over the ditch three of four times in his pickup truck while Cassell was trapped. Even as a veteran firefighter, Vanderwall hadn't seen anyone survive as long as Cassell did with the severity of her injuries. Both of Cassell's rescuers were shocked at the progress she has made since the day they found her at her worst. Jamie Tidwell, who has been friends with Cassell since they were 13 years old, called their bond "inseparable." Cassell was Tidwell's first friend when she moved to Wheatfield. The two graduated high school together and now have kids of the same age who are also best friends. She's not surprised Cassell survived. She said that Cassell has the demeanor and poise to do so. "She is just a very calm person," she said. "So I think she was able to keep herself calm and her mindset (of), 'Okay, this is what I need to do to survive. I need to do this so I can get back to my kids, so I'm not leaving them without a mother.' I really, truly think that staying calm and keeping that focus on her kids was what helped her to survive." What has surprised Tidwell, however, is Cassell's progress since the accident. "Her spirits about all of this have been wonderful, wonderful," Tidwell said. "And as far as her recovery, she's doing amazing." Tidwell could hardly believe the number of people that packed Saturday's fundraiser to celebrate and raise money for her best friend. "It just shows me how much of an impact Brie has made in everybody's life," Tidwell said. "Brie has always been that very loving and caring person. She would give you her last dollar if she had it because that's the type of person she it. So seeing all these people here to pretty much give back to her is just mind-blowing and it's great." The emotions flooded back into Kim Brown's mind as she drove into the parking lot for the fundraiser. Motorcycles and cars filled it. There were no empty spots. "'Look how much people love you,'" Brown, Cassell's mom, told her daughter with tears in her eyes. Cassell's progress is bittersweet for Brown. Her progress while impressive is all happening fast quicker than both thought it would. "She's doing so well, she's not gonna need me much longer," Brown said with a chuckle. "It's unbelievable, isn't it?" Cassell makes her own cereal and has showered unassisted. Her mom records almost every milestone to track her rapid improvement like Cassell is a baby taking her first steps. Making strides When Cassell first got to the hospital, doctors told her she'd be lucky to keep one of her legs. Thirteen surgeries and three months in the hospital later, Cassell returned to her home in Sheldon, Illinois, on June 7. And she's now walking on both legs. "(Doctors) didn't expect me to be walking for at least a year," Cassell said. "When I first stood up, I freaked out... I've only been home, six or seven weeks, and to be standing already and walking, like, blows my mind." The woman who never gave up and who has not expressed any sort of shock about her survival and rescue finally admitted Saturday that she surprised herself by how quickly she's been recovering. "Everything's going really well," Cassell said. Since she's been home, there have been tough days. Summer is her favorite season, and sitting in a wheelchair at her mom's house is not her preferred way to spend it. "I had my days where I'd start crying," Cassell said. "I would sit there, and I would just cry. And then I was like, 'What the (expletive) are you doing? You've done all this. Why are you sitting here getting upset about it now?'" 'Take me to where I wrecked' Cassell was delighted when the time came for her to get into a car for the first time since the accident. It took a couple of extra hands to help her get into her friend Jen's car, but once she was in, there was one place on her mind that she hadn't been to in months. "Take me to where I wrecked," Cassell told her. So Jen did. "It was the first place I wanted to go," Cassell said. The car pulled up to the side of the road on the bridge over the ditch Cassell had spent nearly a week of her life back in March. She wasn't able to get out and walk around but she wanted to. "It was kind of surreal," Cassell said in between long pauses. "I wasn't upset about it, but I don't even know how to explain it. It's almost like a part of me." She said it was "peaceful" to return to the ditch. "I don't know why," she said. "It makes me feel like home." She plans to go back a lot, especially as her mobility continues to improve. And when she's able, she's going to walk down into the ditch to the very spot where she sat and listened to the coyotes howling, waiting for her to die. For now, the place is, to Cassell, a spot of unbounding freedom the same place that was just months ago a place of crippling, almost hopeless captivity. And she loves it. 50 States, 50 Fixes How West Virginia is Pulling Pollution, and Rare Earths, Out of Its Streams Abandoned coal mines had left waterways acidic and rusty orange. Local residents are cleaning them up, and recovering valuable minerals in the process. ACID MINE RUNOFF ACID MINE RUNOFF ACID MINE RUNOFF ACID MINE RUNOFF ACID MINE RUNOFF ACID MINE RUNOFF LIMESTONE LIMESTONE LIMESTONE LIMESTONE LIMESTONE LIMESTONE ALUMINUM IRON ALUMINUM IRON ALUMINUM IRON ALUMINUM IRON ALUMINUM IRON ALUMINUM IRON Set on a quiet hillside in West Virginia, a series of cascading ponds are doing their small part to fix a big problem. A photo of three ponds of different hues in the clearing of a forested hillside. Water saturated with heavy metals and as corrosive as stomach acid, the result of decades of coal mining, flows into the ponds. Animated arrows on top of the same photo illustrate acid mine runoff moving down the hillside and collecting in the upper pond. As the water percolates through limestone and organic matter, its acidity declines. The illustration changes to show limestone rocks in the upper pond, which help reduce acidity. As that happens, heavy metals drop out first aluminum, then iron. Illustrations point out how aluminum settles out in the second pond, giving the water a light blue hue and iron settles out in the third pond, giving it a rust-colored tone. A grouping of wetland plants also grow in one corner of the third pond. Clean water flows out of the ponds and into the creek below. Animated lines show water flowing out of the third pond and down a channel, downhill. This low-tech system, built less than 10 years ago, is transforming life along the water. Fish and sensitive species like salamanders and frogs are returning to Deckers Creek, which for decades flowed rust-orange and lifeless from iron and other pollution. Its one of dozens of cleanup sites being installed across West Virginia, helping the state make progress on a global environmental issue: waterways poisoned from coal mining. Brian Hurley, executive director of Friends of Deckers Creek, the nonprofit group that built and manages this site. Ponds where heavy metals settle out. A few miles downstream, a new, higher-tech version of this cleanup process is yielding an unexpected bonus: Rare earth elements, essential for clean energy technologies and military equipment, are being recovered from the pollution. To mine and extract those elements from scratch is expensive, but here youre getting it for free, said Paul Ziemkiewicz, director of West Virginia Universitys Water Research Institute. And in restoring mountain streams and rivers, these sites are also bringing hope of an economic revival, free from the environmental harm caused by mining and logging. Cleaning up coal A billion years of tectonic drama shaped West Virginias rolling hills, secluded hollows and renowned whitewater rapids. It also laid down enormous seams of coal that would sustain generations of mining, fueling Americas exceptional growth. Coal isnt all that was unearthed. Pyrite, or fool's gold, is found in particularly high concentrations in northern Appalachia. Coal mines perforating these hills expose pyrite to oxygen and water to make sulfuric acid, which then dissolves heavy metals as it seeps through the surrounding rock. The toxic brew, called acid mine drainage, can spoil groundwater and coat stream beds with rust, killing aquatic life. Left untreated, this process goes on indefinitely. 50 States, 50 Fixes is a series about local solutions to environmental problems. More to come this year. Before a 1977 landmark federal law, companies could simply mine coal and move on with the profits, leaving behind polluted waterways and other environmental damage. Even after the government started requiring restoration of the landscape after mining, companies found ways around the rules. Mine owners have transferred their permits or declared bankruptcy, offloading the cost of cleanup onto the state. And with the industry in decline, the tax on coal production that pays for cleanup of abandoned mines could also be in jeopardy. Wheeling Northern Appalachia is a hotspot for acid mine runoff. Morgantown Martinsburg Parkersburg Clarksburg Grafton Elkins Huntington Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Abandoned mines Beckley Northern Appalachia is a hotspot for acid mine runoff. Wheeling Morgantown Martinsburg Parkersburg Clarksburg Grafton Elkins Huntington Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Abandoned mines Beckley Northern Appalachia is a hotspot for acid mine runoff. Wheeling Morgantown Martinsburg Parkersburg Grafton Clarksburg Elkins Huntington Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Abandoned mines Beckley Northern Appalachia is a hotspot for acid mine runoff. Morgantown Grafton Clarksburg Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Beckley Abandoned mines Wheeling Northern Appalachia is a hotspot for acid mine runoff. Morgantown Martinsburg Parkersburg Clarksburg Grafton Elkins Huntington Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Abandoned mines Beckley Source: Department of the Interior Abandoned Mine Land Inventory System. Mine reclamation has also historically been more focused on land: moving mountains back into place after surface mining or filling in hollowed-out spaces underground to prevent collapse. Water and biodiversity concerns often went unaddressed, even though acidic runoff can corrode pipes and threaten drinking water for many residents of rural West Virginia who rely on backyard wells. Nonprofit groups, dozens of which have sprung up across West Virginia, stepped in to fill in gaps where official policies fell short. While federal and state officials guide projects, and though researchers have developed new approaches to water cleanup, the nonprofits are often the boots on the ground. They monitor sprawling watersheds and build relationships within communities, even talking private landowners into opening up their backyards for cleanup work. They can also apply for federal grants to help pay for water testing and treatment. Kelley Flaherty, executive director of Save the Tygart Watershed Association. Treated water runs over rocks stained by acid mine runoff. Just over the ridgeline from Deckers Creek, Kelley Flaherty, the executive director of Save the Tygart Watershed Association, monitors more than a thousand square miles of coal country that drain into the Tygart Valley River. Coals past and present influence is visible across this domain, where the industry remains a major employer. In Grafton, W.Va., a stately rail station that bustled with passengers during coals roaring years now sits empty. But outside of town, trucks thunder by on their way to and from the 6,000-acre Leer Mine Complex, where underground excavation has caused the land above to sink and has driven residents out of their homes with life-threatening methane leaks. Core Natural Resources, owner and operator of the mine, did not respond to a request for comment. When we think about West Virginia, we think coal mining, or timber thats the only economic avenue, said Dr. Flaherty. The goal is to make people aware of the intrinsic value of the river as well as its economic value, she said. The Tygart Valley River has begun a remarkable transformation, thanks to a decade-long initiative to try a more proactive approach to cleanup one that researchers believe will treat water more reliably and efficiently in the long run. Deckers Creek watershed W.Va. Area of detail Morgantown RICHARD MINE (Abandoned) Grafton LEER MINE Clarksburg LEER SOUTH Elkins Tygart Valley River watershed Deckers Creek watershed W.Va. Morgantown Area of detail RICHARD MINE (Abandoned) Grafton LEER MINE Clarksburg LEER SOUTH Elkins Tygart Valley River watershed Deckers Creek watershed Morgantown RICHARD MINE Martinsburg Grafton Clarksburg Parkersburg LEER MINE LEER SOUTH Elkins Tygart River watershed Huntington Charleston WEST VIRGINIA Beckley Passive systems, like the one at Deckers Creek, direct water through limestone or wetlands to reduce acidity and heavy metals. Theyre often favored by nonprofits for their lower costs, though over time, sludge can coat the stone and reduce their performance. Another approach to cleaning up water involves mixing powdered lime, an alkaline, directly into the stream. This is effective at reducing acidity, though not at removing metals from the water, as they eventually settle in ponds or areas further downstream. The lime also has to be replaced as often as every few weeks. Along the Three Fork Creek in the Tygart Valley River watershed, the state has installed several silos, which deliver a steady supply of lime. The strategy is working: Once one of the most polluted tributaries to the Tygart, Three Fork Creek now supports an array of aquatic life and recreation on the water. Acid mine runoff stains the streambed orange before it meets a lime doser at Maple Run, which sits in the Tygart Valley River watershed. A lime silo at Birds Creek. An unexpected resource The last few miles of Deckers Creek before it flows into the Monongahela River are where the greatest volume of pollution enters the stream. Abandoned since the 1950s, the Richard Mine discharges an average of 400 gallons per minute of toxic runoff. Hidden in the polluted water is what could be a source of revenue for more cleanup: rare earth elements crucial for batteries, solar panels and other technologies. The United States uses thousands of metric tons of rare earths a year mostly imported from China, which suspended nearly all shipments in April amid President Trumps trade war. When the Energy Department sought proposals to investigate coal waste as a potential source for rare earths in 2015, researchers at West Virginia University decided to look at the metal-laden water pollution instead. Paul Ziemkiewicz, director of West Virginia Universitys Water Research Institute, overseeing a tank filled with a rare earth solution. The Richard Mine treatment facility, a new site owned and operated by the state. Separating rare earths from solids is expensive, and trying to open a new mine to do so could take years. Youd have to grind it up, treat it with acids, all kinds of chemistry, said Dr. Ziemkiewicz, whose team worked with Virginia Tech researchers and L3 Process Development, a chemical engineering firm, to develop a patented process for extracting rare earths from mine water pollution. Acidic mine runoff is already doing much of the work, dissolving rare earths and other materials into a polluted mixture that requires cleanup, anyways. If youre going to develop a supply chain, this is a good place to start, he said. Built and operated by the state, the temperature-controlled building and automated whirring at the new Richard Mine treatment facility stand in stark contrast to the quiet ponds further upstream on Deckers Creek. But the basic chemistry is the same. A woman wearing a light beige top and dark green slacks holds open a metal hatch on a concrete platform. Polluted water enters through a collection pipe. Looking down into the hatch, water flows out of pipes into a rust-stained tank. An automated system tests the acidity levels and flow rate, so a mixer can add just the right amount of lime. A teal green mixer sits in the center of the frame, with various metal pipes and tubes running all around it. Nearly everything is either painted or stained bright white with lime. Small piles of the powder have collected on some of the equipment. The mixture goes into clarifying pools, where unwanted metals like iron and aluminum settle out. Inside a plain, beige interior are two large pools, framed by various pipes, hoses and other contraptions. One pool is empty, while the other is filled with a murky, orange water and contains metal grates used to separate out sludge. In a second clarifier, valuable rare earths are extracted. A centered photo of a pool, painted black on the sides and filled with a yellow-green, murky water. Rows of metal grates fill much of the structure, where clear water flows into the channels. Clean water flows into Deckers Creek over previously stained rocks. Water coming out of the site flows out from a drainage pipe, over rust-stained rocks, into a clear creek below. The polluted water in this area is particularly rich in the more valuable heavy rare earths, compared to other sources in Butte, Montana and Mountain Pass, California. And the potential income could be enough to cover around a third of operating costs or more, if prices remain elevated. The site, the second in the state to also recover rare earths, cost $8.8 million to build, excluding land costs, and was paid for mostly by West Virginias reclamation fund and a federal grant. A pledge from a natural gas company could also help cover operating costs. Cleanup of West Virginia's abandoned mines has also been supported by $140 million annually from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is planned to continue until 2037. The Trump administration initially paused those payments but then resumed the funding. Light rare earths recovered from coal pollution. More valuable, heavy rare earths. At the mouth of Deckers Creek, a short walk from downtown Morgantown, the streams rejuvenation is allowing bold new plans to take shape. A coalition of local residents is looking to build a park along the water with opportunities to fish, swim and traverse the waterway by foot, bike or boat. Across the state, residents are hoping this transformation will bring in more visitors and jobs, too. Our rivers and our water might be our most valuable resource, said Danny Twilley, assistant vice president of economic and community development at West Virginia University. With several major cities within a few-hours drive, Dr. Twilley says the state is uniquely situated for growth in its outdoor recreation economy. New River Gorge, which received a national park designation in 2020, has seen a recent surge in visitors. Across the state, tourism income reached a record high last year. Employment in the states outdoor recreation economy is starting to rival other industries, with 20,300 jobs in 2023 compared with 17,700 workers in mining and support activities that same year, according to federal estimates. Salt, timber, coal they provide employment and economic opportunities for a long time, but they also tend to be industries that are a bit feast-or-famine, said Dave Bassage, program coordinator at New River Conservancy and a founding member of Friends of the Cheat, one of the largest watershed organizations in the area. If we look to the future, coal is a much smaller part of the overall energy picture in the country and its unlikely to ever regain the same level that it once had. But people will always want to get outdoors, he said. Japanese authorities are on high alert after up to 16,000 plastic toy guns used as prizes in claw machines across the country were deemed able to fire live ammunition. Japans National Police Agency (NPA) recently issued a warning that thousands of illegal firearms were being offered as prizes in claw machines all around the Asian country, adding that authorities were scrambling to recall them. The Real Gimmick Mini Revolver was imported into Japan from China as prizes in crane games, but although the brightly-colored plastic toy seemed harmless, its technical specifications suggested that ot was capable of being used as an actual firearm. The toy comes with eight plastic bullets that can be used to ping various objects or even prank people, but the NPA found that the gun could also potentially be used to fire live ammunition. Interestingly, the NPA released a list of 16 so-called toy guns that it deemed capable of firing real bullets and potentially causing fatal injuries. All of them are Chinese-made and feature hammers made either of metal or hard enough plastic placed in just the right position, and feature a wide enough barrel to accommodate small caliber bullets. Possession of such guns may violate the Sword and Firearms Control Law, and the agency is warning people to report them to their nearest police station. The Real Gimmick Mini Revolver has been sold to 78 Japanese companies in 31 prefectures by a company that has been importing it from China since December last year. Its target market is kids 12 and over, but authorities warn that it could be used as an actual firearm, with disastrous consequences. Not only would the gun fire the bullet in an unexpected direction, but it could also blow up in the users hand. After all, its a cheap plastic toy with lethal potential. The NPA warned anyone in possession of such plastic toys that they are considered illegal firearms and should be turned over to the police as soon as possible. Not a Subscriber? Join O'Dwyer's & Get RFP Access Stop wasting time tracking down RFPs. O'Dwyer's connects you with organizations looking for PR firms & services. Get new business with O'Dwyer's! Join O'Dwyer's RG2 Communications is appointed agency of record in the Middle East for The Mark Hotel, a luxury property on Manhattans Upper East Side. RG2 will implement a targeted media strategy across the Middle East regionspanning luxury, travel, fashion and lifestyle publicationswhile cultivating relationships with key travel advisors, tastemakers and regional media. The campaign will include bespoke press outreach, influencer activations and collaborative opportunities tailored to the Middle Eastern audience. The hotel, which occupies a 1927 Renaissance-Revival building, has 106 guest rooms and 47 suites, including The Mark Penthouse, which is billed as the largest hotel suite in the United States, spanning over 10,000 square feetwith an additional 2,500-square-foot rooftop terrace. Parasol signs on as agency of record for The Pridwin Hotel & Cottages, a resort on New Yorks Shelter Island. Parasol will oversee public relations, influencer marketing, strategic brand partnerships and guest programming for the property. The resort recently underwent a restoration, reopening with 33 guest rooms and 16 private cottages set along the islands Crescent Beach. Their creative ideation, media expertise, and understanding of the luxury marketplace will be invaluable as we share The Pridwins story with a broader audience, said The Pridwin Hotel & Cottages general manager Ramon Serrano. MZ Group is engaged to lead a strategic investor relations and financial communications program across all key markets for Cabbacis, a tobacco-product manufacturer focused on harm-reduction products being developed under the iBlend brand name. Cabbacis will work with MZ Group to develop and implement a comprehensive capital markets strategy designed to increase its visibility throughout the investment community. The initiative will highlight the harm-reduction benefits of the companys iBlend cigarettes and vaporizer pods. We expect to file our first FDA Premarket Tobacco Product Application in late 2025, and in parallel to the FDA process for the US market, we plan to start marketing our products internationally, said Cabbacis CEO Joseph Pandolfino. In a "bold" move aimed at pressuring Russia to end the war in Ukraine, US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will impose 100% tariffs on countries that continue doing business with Russia if a peace agreement isn't reached within 50 days. It should be said, that Trump is on the verge of making a big mistake, which will inevitably lead to escalation of political tension between the two countries. He is sure that the US needs to act from a position of strength, forgetting that Russia is not as weak as twenty years ago after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump expressed deep frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that diplomatic talks have failed to yield results. "Talk doesn't work; it's got to be action," Trump said, emphasizing that the tariffs are meant to be a wake-up call to Moscow and its trading partners. In reality, he is frustrated with his own failed promises to American voters. He promised to end the war within a couple of days after winning the presidential election. Trump was sure he could stop someone else's war with only one his desire. He has failed. And now he is desperately looking for a way to influence a this incomprehensible country. The goal is to amplify the impact of existing sanctions and isolate Russia economically until it agrees to a ceasefire. In tandem with the tariff threat, Trump announced a new arms deal under which NATO will purchase billions of dollars in U.S. military equipment to be distributed to Ukraine. This includes Patriot missile systems and other advanced weaponry, with European nations footing the bill. The Kremlin has yet to respond formally, but the announcement has stirred reactions across global markets and diplomatic circles. With the clock ticking on Trump's 50-day ultimatum, the world is watching to see whether economic pressure will bring Russia to the negotiating table. These proposed tariffs would not only target Russian goods but also extend to third-party nations-- such as China and Turkey-- that maintain economic ties with Russia. Experts agree that such steps will not only strengthen the confrontation between two superpowers, but will also lead to global economic problems. In histories of early photography, Louis Daguerre faithfully appears as one of the fathers of the medium. His patented process, the daguerreotype, in wide use for nearly twenty years in the early 19th century, produced so many of the images we associate with the period, including famous photographs of Abraham Lincoln, Edgar Allan Poe, Emily Dickinson, and John Brown. But had things gone differently, we might know better the harder-to-pronounce name of his onetime partner Joseph Nicephore Niepce, who produced the first known photograph ever, taken in 1826. Something of a gentleman inventor, Niepce (below) began experimenting with lithography and with that ancient device, the camera obscura, in 1816. Eventually, after much trial and error, Niepce developed his own photographic process, which he called heliography. He began by mixing chemicals on a flat pewter plate, then placing it inside a camera. After exposing the plate to light for eight hours, the inventor then washed and dried it. What remained was the image we see above, taken, as Niepce wrote, from the room where I work on his country estate and now housed at the University of Texas at Austins Harry Ransom Center. At the Ransom Center website, you can see a short video describing Niepces house and showing how scholars recreated the vantage point from which he took the picture. Another video offers insight into the process Niepce invented to create his heliograph. In 1827, Niepce traveled to England to visit his brother. While there, with the assistance of English botanist Francis Bauer, he presented a paper on his new invention to the Royal Society. His findings were rejected, however, because he opted not to fully reveal the details, hoping to make economic gains with a proprietary method. Niepce left the pewter image with Bauer and returned to France, where he shortly after agreed to a ten-year partnership with Daguerre in 1829. Sadly for Niepce, his heliograph would not produce the financial or technological success he envisioned, and he died just four years later in 1833. Daguerre, of course, went on to develop his famous process in 1839 and passed into history, but we should remember Niepces efforts, and marvel at what he was able to achieve on his own with limited materials and no training or precedent. Daguerre may receive much of the credit, but it was the scientifically-minded gentleman Niepce and his heliography that ledwrites the Ransom Centers Head of Photographic Conservation Barbara Brownto the invention of the new medium. Niepces pewter plate image was re-discovered in 1952 by Helmut and Alison Gernsheim, who published an article on the find in The Photographic Journal. Thereafter, the Gernsheims had the Eastman Kodak Company create the reproduction above. This images pointillistic effect, writes Brown, is due to the reproduction process, and the image was touched up with watercolors by [Helmut] Gernsheim himself in order to bring it as close as possible to his approximation of how he felt the original should appear in reproduction. Note: An earlier version of this post appeared on our site in 2015. Related Content: The First Selfie In History Taken by Robert Cornelius, a Philadelphia Chemist, in 1839 The First Known Photograph of People Having a Beer (1843) The Oldest Known Photographs of Rome (18411871) Some of the Oldest Photos You Will Ever See: Discover Photographs of Greece, Egypt, Turkey & Other Mediterranean Lands (1840s) Josh Jones is a writer and musician based in Durham, NC. Follow him at @jdmagness LAGOS, Nigeria - ATLAS REALTORS announces the release of verified affordable land for sale in the rapidly expanding Epe Lagos and Ibeju Lekki areas, with Oregon has policies that protect people living and working in the state regardless of their immigration status. AP Para leer esta historia en espanol, haga clic aqui. Threatening to call federal immigration authorities on employees after they raised concerns about their working conditions is considered illegal retaliation, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries is warning employers. Oregon law prohibits employers from discriminating or retaliating against workers because of their national origin, which includes actions that target workers based on their immigration status, ethnicity, language, ancestry or cultural traits. While the federal government is cracking down on immigration enforcement across the country, the state of Oregon has policies protecting people living and working in Oregon regardless of their immigration status. State agencies including the Labor Bureau and Department of Justice have pledged to take aggressive action to enforce the law in these cases. The agency did not immediately specify how many complaints it received involving threats to call Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. Intimidating and silencing workers who simply want to be treated fairly by threatening or actually calling immigration officials on them is one of the most egregious forms of retaliation, agency Commissioner Christina Stephenson said in a July 16 statement. Stephenson said the bureau will prioritize cases where employees have faced this type of retaliation and use every enforcement tool to make sure employers are held accountable. Reyna Lopez, executive director of Oregons farmworker union Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste, also known as PCUN said the organization is grateful to have a state labor industry that stands firm against retaliation. For too long, employers have weaponized the fear of deportation to silence workers speaking out against unsafe, unjust and illegal conditions, Lopez said. This conduct has only grown worse under the federal administrations aggressive deportation policies. Although Oregon is a sanctuary state meaning state and local law enforcement cannot help federal authorities with immigration enforcement some industries in Oregon are still feeling the impacts of the federal governments immigration crackdown. In The Dalles, fears of ICE raids led to a 50% drop in available cherry-picking workers, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported. In late May, Gov. Tina Kotek signed a law prohibiting landlords from asking tenants about their immigration status and prohibiting them from disclosing or threatening to disclose an applicants or tenants immigration status. The law took effect immediately, and Oregon joined Washington, California and New York in having similar immigration-related tenant protections. -- Mia Maldonado, Oregon Capital Chronicle The Oregon Capital Chronicle, founded in 2021, is a nonprofit news organization that focuses on Oregon state government, politics and policy. President Donald Trump speaks during a reception for Republican members of Congress in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Washington. AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson President Donald Trump announced a trade framework with Japan on Tuesday, placing a 15% tax on goods imported from that nation. This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it, Trump posted on Truth Social, adding that the United States will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. The president said Japan would invest at my direction $550 billion into the U.S. and would open its economy to American autos and rice. The 15% tax on imported Japanese goods is a meaningful drop from the 25% rate that Trump, in a recent letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said would be levied starting Aug. 1. With the announcement, Trump is seeking to tout his ability as a dealmaker even as his tariffs, when initially announced in early April led to a market panic and fears of slower growth that for the moment appear to have subsided. Key details remained unclear from his post, such as whether Japanese-built autos would face a higher 25% tariff that Trump imposed on the sector. But the framework fits a growing pattern for Trump, who is eager to portray the tariffs as win for the U.S. His administration says the revenues will help reduce the budget deficit and more factories will relocate to America to avoid the import taxes and cause trade imbalances to disappear. But the wave of tariffs continues to be a source of uncertainty about whether it could lead to higher prices for consumers and businesses if companies simply pass along the costs. The problem was seen sharply Tuesday after General Motors reported a 35% drop in its net income during the second quarter as it warned that tariffs would hit its business in the months ahead, causing its stock to tumble. As the Aug. 1 deadline for the tariff rates in his letters to world leaders is approaching, Trump also announced a trade framework with the Philippines that would impose a tariff of 19% on its goods, while American-made products would face no import taxes. The president also reaffirmed his 19% tariffs on Indonesia. The U.S. ran a $69.4 billion trade imbalance on goods with Japan last year, according to the Census Bureau. Japan is a key trade partner for Oregon. The state imports $4.7 billion in products from Japan, far more than it sells there. Most of these imports are cars tens of thousands of Toyotas pass through the Port of Portland every month on their way to dealers all over the U.S. America had a trade imbalance of $17.9 billion with Indonesia and an imbalance of $4.9 billion with the Philippines. Both nations are less affluent than the U.S. and an imbalance means America imports more from those countries than it exports to them. The president is set to impose the broad tariffs listed in his recent letters to other world leaders on Aug. 1, raising questions of whether there will be any breakthrough in talks with the European Union. At a Tuesday dinner, Trump said the EU would be in Washington on Wednesday for trade talks. We have Europe coming in tomorrow, the next day, Trump told guests. The president earlier this month sent a letter threatening the 27 member states in the EU with 30% taxes on their goods to be imposed starting on Aug. 1. The Trump administration has a separate negotiating period with China that is currently set to run through Aug. 12 as goods from that nation are taxed at an additional 30% baseline. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he would be in the Swedish capital of Stockholm next Monday and Tuesday to meet with his Chinese counterparts. Bessent said his goal is to shift the American economy away from consumption and to enable more consumer spending in the manufacturing-heavy Chinese economy. President Trump is remaking the U.S. into a manufacturing economy, Bessent said on the Fox Business Network show Mornings with Maria. If we could do that together, we do more manufacturing, they do more consumption. That would be a home run for the global economy. -- Josh Boak, The Associated Press A 19-year-old who shot and killed a Hillsboro High School student in 2023 was sentenced earlier this month to life in prison. Derek Owen Cuellar-Torres pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the fatal Oct. 21 shooting of 17-year-old Jesus Copado-Oropeza, according to the Washington County District Attorneys Office. Cuellar-Torres also pleaded guilty to attempted murder in the first degree for wounding a 16-year-old student from Liberty High School in the shooting, authorities said. Prosecutors wrote that Cuellar-Torres, then 17, was called to a birthday party in Hillsboro to confront the teenagers, after a person contacted him saying the teens were being disrespectful. Cuellar-Torres was a member of a local gang, authorities said. The caller then drove Cuellar-Torres and three others to the party to confront the teens and to lure Copado-Oropeza and others outside. Meanwhile, Cuellar-Torres and another teen hid and waited outside in the dark. When the partygoers got outside, Cuellar-Torres and the other teen opened fire. Hillsboro police found 22 shell casings at the scene. According to prosecutors, investigators found text messages in which Cuellar-Torres told others he was losing time and wanted to catch a body before turning 18. He also claimed he would avoid punishment and that he could become a cartel assassin. Because Cuellar-Torres was 17 at the time of the shooting, he will be eligible for parole after 15 years and conditional release after serving half his sentence. Zaeem Shaikh covers the Portland Police Bureau and criminal justice issues for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-221-4323, zshaikh@oregonian.comor on X@zaeemshake. Police on Friday arrested a Vancouver man after a 12-year-old girl allegedly was raped. Suliaman Abdul-Hadi, 24, faces allegations of second- and third-degree rape of a child, communication with a minor for immoral purposes, supplying liquor to minors, disorderly conduct, obstructing a police officer and failing to register as a sex offender, the Vancouver Police Department said in a statement. Abdul-Hadi, a registered sex offender, allegedly raped the girl on July 11, and she ended up hospitalized, police said. Days later, Abdul-Hadi tried to flee when officers went to his house in the 2900 block of Northeast 143rd Avenue in Vancouver, police said. Officers took him into custody with the help of a police dog, according to the statement. Police said they continue to investigate the case and believe there may be more victims. They ask anyone with information to contact Detective LeAnn Cone at leann.cone@cityofvancouver.us or Sgt. Zachary Ripp at zachary.ripp@cityofvancouver.us. 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. The man who caused the evacuation of the Target store at Mall 205 in east Portland on Monday had hit a security guard with a hatchet before hiding from police in the rafters of the stores warehouse, court records show. Michael Harper, 41, of Portland, axed the security guard two times in the neck, according to the guards account in the probable cause affidavit. Police arrested Harper hours later on allegations of attempted assault and unlawful use of a weapon. Christian Buckner, the stores security guard, said he first encountered Harper outside the store and Harper told him he was waiting for a ride. Harper then entered the store and used the guest-services phone multiple times, according to court records. Buckner told Harper he could wait for his ride in the stores Starbucks. Several minutes later Buckner felt something hit the back of his head, near his neck, he told officers. Buckner was then hit again, and he dropped to the ground, before seeing Harper as the perpetrator, the court records state. Buckner believed he was bleeding to death, and he saw a hatchet was on the ground. Harper was trying with everything he could to get Buckners gun out of his holster, the court records say. Buckner was able to get to his feet and drew his gun when Harper walked away, according to the affidavit. Buckner then launched the evacuation of the store, and police were called. Police said Harper hid on top of the storage shelves in the southwest corner of the stores warehouse and would not come down for several hours. At one point, while the polices crisis negotiation team was talking to Harper, he held a knife to his throat, according to the affidavit. He eventually surrendered to officers on scene. Harper was arraigned Tuesday, and he remains in custody. According to court records, Harper has felony convictions in California, including robbery and inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant as well as a DUI misdemeanor conviction. His next court appearance is July 30. Kimberly Cortez covers breaking news, public safety and more for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached at kcortez@oregonian.com Jobanpreet Singh, 24, listens to opening statements while on trial for first-degree murder on Tues., July 22, 2025. Zane Sparling/The Oregonian A feud between two families over their competing smoke shops escalated into a screaming match two years ago when one man pulled out a handgun and killed the brothers Dilrajpal and Guriqbal Singh as they tried to flee, prosecutors said in court Tuesday. Jobanpreet Singh, 24, no relation, faces two counts of first-degree murder and other charges in the double homicide but claimed self defense as the trial began before a Multnomah County jury. Prosecutors played surveillance footage showing Jobanpreet Singh arguing with the brothers usually known as D.P. and Gora Singh in the parking lot of a strip mall, 9100 S.W. Barbur Blvd., around 2:45 p.m. on May 3, 2023. You are about to see the defendant shoot an unarmed man in the back 11 times. You will see him kill not just one man, but two unarmed men, prosecutor Eric Palmer told the jury. You wont see the defendant getting hurt; you will only see him killing the brothers. Dilrajpal Singh was 33. His younger brother was 27. The two families had been closely intertwined for roughly a decade as members of the Sikh community in Lake Charles, Louisiana, prosecutors said, but became embroiled in a business dispute while expanding their vaping franchises to Portland. Jobanpreet Singhs family sued the two brothers in late 2022, alleging they had wrongfully wrested control of their stores in Milwaukie and Beaverton. The brothers then opened up an outlet called Smokers Den on Barbur, while Jobanpreet Singh planned to establish a shop called Exhale City across the street. The suit was still pending when Jobanpreet Singh went to check in on Exhale City and the brothers arrived in their cars, precipitating the deadly confrontation in the parking lot, according to Palmer. The prosecutor said Jobanpreet Singh could be heard shouting in Punjabi just before he opened fire: Pimp! Sister (expletive), mother (expletive), come on! Surveillance footage from May 3, 2023 shows Jobanpreet Singh, wearing red shoes, standing near Dilrajpal Singh, who is using a cellphone, and Guriqbal Singh, who is wearing a red shirt. Zane Sparling/The Oregonian Defense attorney Amanda Thibeault countered that Jobanpreet Singh reasonably feared for his life, noting that he remained at the scene, called 911 and identified himself as the shooter, and tried to perform CPR on Guriqbal Singh, who she said had lunged forward just before the gunfire began. Thibeault claimed the two brothers had previously broken into the apartment of Jobanpreet Singhs employee and threatened him with a firearm, and had made numerous threats against their business rival. (The brothers were not charged with any crime.) Though neither brother was armed that day, Thibeault displayed a social media screenshot of a firearm in a car, saying one of the brothers had posted the video. There was absolutely no reason for Dilrajpal Singh and Guriqbal Singh to come from where they were across the street to find Jobanpreet Singh, other than to yell, scream, threaten and intimidate him, hurt him and kill him, she said. The trial before Circuit Judge Heidi Moawad is set to last for three weeks. Zane Sparling covers breaking news and courts for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-319-7083, zsparling@oregonian.com or @pdxzane. The new members of the PPS school board were sworn in Tuesday afternoon on the grounds of Grant High School. From left, they are Rashelle Chase-Miller, Stephanie Engelsman, Virginia La Forte and Christy Splitt. Beth Nakamura Four newly elected members of the Portland Public Schools board were sworn in this week, kicking off a pivotal year for Oregons largest school district. Three of those members Rashelle Chase-Miller, Virginia La Forte and Stephanie Engelsman are brand new to the board. The fourth, Christy Splitt, was appointed in January to replace board member Andrew Scott, who stepped down in the middle of his four-year term. Splitt will now serve out the remainder of his term. An April agreement signed by Gov. Tina Kotek directs $10 million of state money to be spent on expanding access to AI education. Mark Graves/The Oregonian Months after Oregon signed an agreement with the computer chip company Nvidia to educate K-12 and college students about artificial intelligence, details about how AI concepts and AI literacy will be taught to children as young as 5 remain unclear. An April agreement signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, Higher Education Coordinating Commission Executive Director Ben Cannon and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, directs $10 million of state money be spent on expanding access to AI education and career opportunities in colleges and schools in partnership with Nvidia. Despite the agreement encompassing K-12 schools, questions and requests for comment on the deal from the Oregon Department of Education went unanswered. A spokesperson for the Oregon Education Association, the states largest teachers union, did not provide comment on the agreement with Nvidia but sent a 2024 group resolution on artificial intelligence that states that the use of AI tools should be transparent in schools, that data security and privacy should be a priority and that teachers should be trained in use of the tools. Cannon said in a statement that the agreement will position Oregon higher education institutions and workforce training providers to lead in preparing students for responsible application of AI and cutting-edge technologies needed in Oregon. California-based Nvidia is the worlds largest supplier of computing chips used for artificial intelligence systems processing, and Huang has deep Oregon connections as a graduate of Aloha High School and Oregon State University. Huang recently donated $50 million to develop a supercomputing research center at the university, which in 2023 also got more than $70 million in state taxpayer funding. Nvidia chips are used in generative AI systems like ChatGPT that are trained on troves of text and data taken from the internet and used to provide text, image or other outputs based on user prompts. The system has drawn the ire of many teachers and college professors, who see it being used deceptively by students to do their research and writing work for them. Many writers and publishers also distrust AI tools that take their work from the internet without pay or credit and use it to train the AI systems. But as such AI tools gain users, theres a growing push to teach younger and younger students in the countrys public schools and colleges about how they work, and how they could be applied in an increasingly technocentric future. Fast moving Just a week after Kotek signed the agreement with Nvidia, President Donald Trump issued an executive order advancing artificial intelligence education for American youth by establishing an artificial intelligence education task force. Such announcements reveal a clear concern from politicians without investing in AI education, Oregonians and Americans will be uncompetitive for the jobs of the future and get left behind. Nvidia is collaborating with the state of Oregon on workforce training and upskilling to address the rapidly growing demand for AI skills, foster economic growth, and ensure Oregons workforce remains competitive in the evolving tech landscape, Nvidia spokesperson Liz Archibald said in an email. Oregons agreement with Nvidia followed one made with California in August 2024 that is specific to higher education and job training. After Kotek signed Oregons agreement, Mississippi and Utah also signed agreements. According to Oregons agreement, college faculty will be able to train to become Nvidia ambassadors on campus, and the Oregon Department of Education will work with Nvidia and K-12 schools to introduce foundational AI concepts. The MOU is intended to be broad and inclusive of Oregons workforce and training education ecosystem which includes K-12 education so Oregon can train and prepare students for high-paying jobs in a fast moving, crucial industry, Kotek spokesperson Roxy Mayer said in an email. Applications unknown The agreement does not offer a lot of granularity about how AI lessons, concepts, ethics and literacy will be integrated into K-12 and college classrooms. It lists a number of industries that would be engaged and positively impacted, including renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, microelectronics and manufacturing specifically, semiconductor design and manufacturing. Archibald, the company spokesperson, said that Nvidia will first focus on the university ecosystem. There are more than 600 Nvidia ambassadors at college campuses in the U.S. and abroad, according to the company. Faculty can get certified via a company training that then allows them to teach advanced AI and machine learning technologies. Thats how well see new startups, new research breakthroughs and a workforce ready for the AI era, Archibald wrote. A key metric of success for the private-public partnership is the number of ambassadors that colleges eventually have on their campuses. It is, Mayer of the governors office confirmed, the first time a corporation has gotten the states higher education agency to agree to promote its own company ambassadors on college campuses. We reject the premise that the company has coerced the state into allowing corporate actors onto college campuses to promote their company, Mayer said. Kotek in 2023 established an AI advisory council, meant to analyze potential benefits and risks of broader AI adoption in state government and agencies. The council shared its action plan in February, which included establishing a roadmap for AI integration grounded in protecting government ethics, privacy and security. But the Higher Education Coordinating Commission lacks any such framework or guidance for colleges and universities. Oregons department of education was among the first in the U.S. to offer guidance to K-12 schools in 2023. Agencies in at least 28 states and the District of Columbia have issued guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in K-12 schools since. Because there is no existing law regarding the use of AI in schools, ODEs role is to provide guidance and support to school districts not requirements, spokesperson Liz Merah wrote. Many of those guidelines are similar to media literacy guidelines, including teaching students to recognize biases, inaccuracies and plagiarism and understand copyright and licensing rights. Risks and rewards Shiyan Jiang, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who researches how AI concepts are being taught to students in K-12 schools, said theres a lot of variation in how schools and teachers handle that instruction. There is this huge gap in terms of how prepared different states are in terms of bringing topics to classrooms, she said. Its important to have a common ground so students in Pennsylvania have the same knowledge to bring to arguments and conversations about the application of AI as students in California, she said. No matter what kind of attitude we have towards AI, I think that its good for us to have some kind of foundation knowledge about it, so that we can make solid arguments and think deeply about how we can or cannot better leverage these tools, she said. Tom Mullaney, a former public school history teacher and ed tech consultant who writes the Critical Inkling blog about tech applications in classrooms, said an agreement like the one Oregon is entering into with Nvidia leaves more questions than answers. When we talk about education and generative AI, is Nvidia an unbiased source for that? They have a lot invested in you and I thinking that generative AI is going to transform everything from education to employment. Are they an unbiased source for education for children? he said. I think that if this is to be brought into schools, it should be done by people who are willing to be critical, or at least hear and understand critical perspectives. It should not be done by those with a financial interest in you being enamored of generative AI. Mullaney pointed to startups in the AI and education space like the company School AI, that provides teachers and students with chatbots that imitate historical figures and AI-generated imagery of figures such as Anne Frank and George Washington Carver. For reasons of consent, of creepiness, of a white, male-dominated industry voicing people from marginalized populations, I mean theres a lot of reasons not to use generative AI as a guest speaker, he said. Jiang said the best case scenario for AI in schools is that students at least learn enough AI literacy, including concepts, and ethical implications of AI applications, that they can participate as an active agent in conversations and development of a future that includes AI, not just as a passive consumer of AI tools developed by others. Mullaney said what most students need is media literacy, not AI literacy. Students should be able to understand the quality of different source material and if an image is real or made by an AI program, he explained. We dont need to be teaching students about being excited for generative AI. We need to teach students to be critical thinkers. Thats what we need, and thats what Im not seeing, he said. -- Alex Baumhardt, Oregon Capital Chronicle The Oregon Capital Chronicle, founded in 2021, is a nonprofit news organization that focuses on Oregon state government, politics and policy. A 23-year-old Portland woman's fingers are pictured here after she was infected with the herpes simplex virus 2, according to her lawsuit. The suit says she acquired the virus during a manicure. Courtesy of Amity Girt A customer who sought $1.75 million from a Portland nail salon alleging that it spread the genital herpes virus during a manicure has reached a confidential settlement with the business. The case was supposed to go to trial this month in Multnomah County Circuit Court, but instead a judge dismissed it after lawyers announced theyd come to an agreement. Lawyers representing both the then-23-year-old plaintiff and the salon, PDX Nails, said they were prohibited from publicly disclosing the terms. Andony Melathopoulos takes a seat and flips on the harsh light to his microscope. He places a bee under the lens and peers through, adjusting the focus for a clear view. Melathopoulos, an associate professor of pollinator health extension at Oregon State University, is working hand in hand with volunteers and other researchers to learn more about Oregons native bees. They have been collecting data on where bees live and which plants they visit. This March, they made the data they gathered publicly accessible online in an interactive database called the Melittoflora. You can now see clearly which bees go to which plants, Melathopoulos said. This is only possible in Oregon at this point. Were the only state with this level of data internationally, too. Andony Melathopoulos holds a collection of bees at the Oregon State University Arthropod Collection. Melathopoulos helped found the Oregon Bee Atlas in partnership with Oregon State. Eliana Cameron and Anahid Grigoryan | High School Journalism Institute Honeybee declines are well documented, but there is not a lot of information on native bees in Oregon or their health. We have evidence that a few species look to be declining, but a number of species seem to be stable, Melathopoulos said. Then theres a whole long tail of bees that we have not enough information to say anything about. The data used in the Melittoflora comes from volunteers who catch bees and help identify them as part of their work with the Oregon Bee Atlas, a program Melathopoulos helped launch in 2018 to collect more information on native bees. Melitta is derived from Greek and means bee. Flora refers to the atlas of plants. When he first helped start the atlas, there was no accurate record for how many bee species were in Oregon, said Melathopoulos. Lincoln Best, taxonomist for the Oregon Bee Atlas, now estimates there are roughly 800 bee species. He said Oregon Bee Atlas volunteers have contributed to many discoveries. What we have found is our volunteers are exceptionally capable, theyre very hardworking, and theyre very dedicated, said Best. Honestly they make discoveries like every week. A variety of bees used for research displayed at Oregon State University. Eliana Cameron and Anahid Grigoryan | High School Journalism Institute Best trains volunteers to catch bees and help identify them. Scott Sublette, a 68-year-old volunteer, said he has caught and helped identify more than 6,000 bees over the past five years for the Oregon Bee Atlas. The day before yesterday, there were some bees making a nest in some spray foam around the outside of my house, he said. So I caught a couple and I IDd them. And its just fun to be able to do that. With a net in hand, volunteers search for bees and put them in a vial of ethyl acetate. The fumes suffocate the bees. They die nice and quick, Melathopoulos said. Some attempt to identify the bees before mailing the samples to the lab at Oregon State. Oregon Bee Atlas taxonomist Lincoln Best sits near a microscope at the Oregon State Arthropod Collection. Eliana Cameron and Anahid Grigoryan | High School Journalism Institute Sublette sees the irony in killing bees to help save them. Ive had people give me a bad time because we do lethal sampling, so were killing the bees, Sublette said. I always say go look at your bumper; you probably killed more bees driving to work today than I kill in a week. Melathopoulos said the research that volunteers do is even more valuable now that it is accessible to the public through the Melittoflora. There are many bees all over the state of Oregon, he said, but some parts are more populated with native bees than others. The Melittoflora allows researchers to visualize where native bees are and which places in Oregon may need the most help. Its possible that the real conservation needs like where dollars need to flow may not be your backyard, Melathopoulos said, It may be somewhere a little more distant. -- Eliana Cameron, Milwaukie Academy of the Arts -- Anahid Grigoryan, Adrienne C. Nelson High School This story was produced by student reporters as part of the High School Journalism Institute, an annual collaboration among The Oregonian/OregonLive, Oregon State University and other Oregon media organizations. For more information or to support the program, go to oregonlive.com/hsji. For the first time in a long time, visitors can sidle up to the bar, throw back a shot of whiskey, and maybe even watch a gunfight break out in Shaniko. Yes, Oregons most famous ghost town now has an Old West watering hole open on the weekends. Benjamin Harleman, proprietor at the High Desert Ranger Saloon, is also president of the High Desert Rangers gunfighters club. Harleman dresses the part of an old-time saloon operator, wearing a black felt wide-brimmed hat, a collarless granddad shirt and a blue wool vest as he pours drinks behind the bar. At its height in 1910, Shaniko had about 600 residents and a reputation as a rowdy place. A 1908 article in The Oregonian described Shaniko as an oasis in a saloonless region. A bit of that legacy lives on today at the High Desert Rangers Saloon. About three hours east of Portland in Wasco County, Shaniko takes pride in its status as a ghost town, though it also remains a functioning municipality with about two dozen full-time residents. The town is a blip along U.S. 97, which brings a steady flow of traffic and curious tourists to the cluster of original buildings that constitute downtown Shaniko. The saloon sits on a pathway just behind the main drag, in an old wooden building where vintage newspapers serve as wallpaper and tree stumps serve as stools. The decor transports visitors back in time to around 1901, when Shaniko was in its brief heyday as the wool-gathering center of the world. The opening of a rival railroad and a fire that destroyed much of the town in 1911 spelled the end of Shanikos boom days. Harleman said the saloon building was constructed as a garage for a wool warehouse. The structure was moved from its original location, and in the 1980s it was converted into an old-time saloon. Today, the Shaniko Historic Preservation Guild leases the building and contracts with the gunfighters group to run the bar. In past years, Harleman and his gunslinging friends would open the saloon during the towns big annual celebration, Shaniko Days. This summer, Harleman is committed to opening every weekend. The saloon offers a selection of root beers and sodas, in addition to adult beverages behind the bar. For food, Harleman generally has wings or nachos ready to serve. Cash is preferred, but in the rare nod to the 21st century, the bar also takes Venmo or CashApp. Out back is a fire pit, where on the last Saturday of the month youll find locals and visitors gathered for a bluegrass jam session. Everybody who comes in loves it, Harleman said. We have people here who, they fall in love with it so much, theyll hang out until they cant stay awake any longer sitting by the fire. At that point, Harleman might offer travelers an overnight stay in one of the propertys two bunkhouses. Theyre just wood-framed buildings big enough for a bed, but what they lack in hotel fineries they make up for in authentic cowboy experience. (Harleman intends to offer more formal rental options by listing the bunkhouses on the campsite reservation website Hipcamp.com later this summer.) Harleman, who grew up in Yakima, Washington, first visited Shaniko in 1992 when he was taking a film class. He and his college friends wanted to shoot a Western, and they traveled to town for Shaniko Days. Me and my brother and two friends, we dressed up and walked into town, he said. We got about 30 feet before we heard someone shout, Hey, you guys want to be in a gunfight? And that was all she wrote. We got plugged in, and weve been doing this off and on ever since. Nowadays, the High Desert Rangers stage mock gunfights during Shaniko Days, always held the first weekend in August. But if theres a crowd on any given weekend, the Rangers might just put on a show at the saloon. Harleman carries an 1873 Colt revolver replica single action, loaded with blanks, and adopts a persona as the towns unofficial lawman. He even keeps warrants behind the bar, in which hell round someone up, by request, and take them to the original Shaniko jail thats still attached to City Hall. In addition to serving as a barkeep, Harleman also spends his time as an unofficial historian of the American West. Hes working on a book about Wyatt Earp and will lead a history talk about the famed lawman during Shaniko Days. Harleman said Shanikos raw authenticity is the real attraction for visitors and locals. Its not over-touristy, thank goodness, he said. If we had more money, I think some people would try to modernize it, but being a town of 25 out in the middle of nowhere, there just isnt a lot of money coming to town, and so its stayed historic. You walk around here, and its like youre walking around an Old West town. IF YOU GO: The High Desert Rangers Saloon is generally open during the summer starting at 5 p.m. Fridays and noon Saturdays, until the crowd dies down, at 48786 F St. in Shaniko. If youd like to confirm hours before a trip or inquire about renting a bunkhouse for the night, email highdesertrangers@hotmail.com. A great time to visit is during Shaniko Days, which returns Aug. 1-3 with staged gunfights throughout the day, live music, history talks and a barbecue. For a full schedule of events, visit shanikodays.com. I disagree with the article about logging contracts under the new big bill recently passed by Congress, (Trumps big bill calls for much more logging. One provision could cost Oregon counties, July 14). With a masters degree from the University of Michigans School of Environment and Sustainability, I believe everything about this federal law is positive. The U.S. National Forests were established over a hundred years ago to provide a sustainable supply of timber. The proposed 8% increase in timber production allows the U.S. Forest Service to meet its production targets; it has fallen short of these targets for several decades. More timber means more taxes funding public schools, more forestry research, more firefighting capacity, and more desperately needed housing. These 20-year contracts, versus the typical three- to four-year contracts, take fewer personnel to manage, while allowing timber corporations long-term financial stability to invest in roads and equipment, and the ability to provide good long-term jobs. The longer contracts also promote sustainable management of our National Forests for re-growth and wildfire planning. Barry Thalden, Ashland To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. The Deschutes County Sheriff's office said six people fell over Dillon Falls on Saturday. One remains missing. The man is in his 30s and was visiting Oregon from out of state, according to his brother. He has not been identified by the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office. Courtesy of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office A volunteer diver who this year helped recover a childs body in the Siletz River said Deschutes County authorities threatened to arrest him Tuesday if he entered the water to help search for a man who went over Dillon Falls last weekend. Juan Heredia, 53, of Stockton, California, said he learned about the search effort through Facebook and decided to help with the effort. Dillon Falls cascades beside the Deschutes River Trail, which follows the Deschutes River southwest of Bend. A floating trip turned deadly Saturday when a group of six approached the falls on inner tubes. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian The group of six who accidentally floated to Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River near Bend were in inner tubes tied together and included a Texas woman who had just celebrated her 40th birthday and a 33-year-old woman from Florida, authorities said Tuesday. Three of the six were able to jump from the inner tubes and make it safely to shore on Saturday while the other three tumbled over the falls 15-foot drop. Authorities have recovered the bodies of two of those people 40-year-old Amanda Lloyd of Rockwall, Texas and 33-year-old Lindsay Bashan of Parkland, Florida and they are continuing to search for the third person, who hasnt been identified publicly. The Deschutes County Sheriffs Office also has declined to identify the three survivors. The Portland Police Bureaus fixed-wing plane with special cameras has joined the search, the sheriffs office said. A K-9 team also continues to help. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials are asking the public to stay away from the Dillon Falls area southwest of Bend so as to not interfere in the search. Preschool children play at a Preschool Promise site in 2022. An audit found that mismanagement of Preschool Promise spending by early learning leaders resulted in $1.4 million of wasted funds. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian Managers in Oregons Early Learning Division wasted $1.4 million meant to expand preschool access for low-income children, an audit by the Secretary of States Office found. The investigation, published Wednesday, determined that Oregon gave $150,000 in grants to preschool providers for months that they were not open, paid $700,000 to providers whose enrollment was too low to qualify and wasted another half-million on grants to help providers expand when their enrollment was too low. The wasted money is only about 1% of all Preschool Promise funds paid out by the state between 2021 and 2024, the investigation found, but still represents a significant amount of public money. The funds could have helped 100 more kids get access to preschool if allocated properly, auditors found. As a dad, I know quality child care is hard to find, much less afford, which is why its frustrating when programs like this arent delivering as much as they can, Secretary of State Tobias Read said in a written statement. Accountability for Preschool Promise and maximizing that program is about doing right by our kids. Oregonians are depending on us to step up and take action. Auditors say the wasteful spending was authorized when Preschool Promise was run by the Early Learning Division, housed in the Oregon Department of Education. In 2023, early learning became its own state agency, the Department of Early Learning and Care. Director Alyssa Chatterjee oversaw that transition and has led early learning initiatives since 2021. In a written response to the audit, Chatterjee said that her division is committed to transparency and strong financial controls. Auditors noted that the department has made several improvements since becoming its own agency. However, staffing for the Preschool Promise programs hasnt kept pace with the surge in services, Chatterjee wrote, making it challenging to adequately monitor the programs. Preschool Promise had the capacity to serve 5,350 students in the 2023-24 school year, the report says, compared to just 1,300 before the pandemic. Though the program has more than doubled, Chatterjee said the Legislature funded just one more quality assurance person for the 2025-27 budget cycle, which is not adequate to fully monitor the statewide program. The early learning agency will continue to identify the resources necessary to build out adequate capacity for oversight, monitoring, and support and identify ways to utilize the resources we have with highest impact, Chatterjee wrote. The state investigation was spurred by a tip to a government accountability hotline alleging that the state was allowing fraud because Preschool Promise grantees had low enrollment. Auditors didnt confirm fraud, the report said, but did flag several risk areas where fraud could occur. Beyond the wasted money, the state found $1.5 million in improper payments issued to a grantee whose expense reports didnt meet the state standards. Auditors tied wasted payments to insufficient controls within the Oregon Department of Education and a refusal of program managers to heed the advice of early learning committees. In 2022, for example, a committee within the Early Learning Division wanted to cut the grants of four Portland programs that had chronic underenrollment. But Early Learning Division managers decided instead to keep paying those providers and put them on corrective action plans, the investigation found. Performance improved at only two of those four locations. Auditors say the Department of Early Learning and Care has taken steps to prioritize efficiency and transparency. Still, the Secretary of States Office recommended 13 ways for the department to shore up its systems, including more monitoring of sites with low enrollment, ensuring accurate financial reporting and conducting a risk assessment to find places where improper payments could happen. The success of (Preschool Promise) is critical, the audit says. Oregon families routinely cite child care as one of their biggest challenges. Sami Edge covers higher education and politics for The Oregonian. You can reach her at sedge@oregonian.com or (503) 260-3430. After months of debate, the county board adopted new guidelines to try to preserve $135 million in federal funds. Mark Graves/The Oregonian After weeks of intense debate, Oregons most diverse county has reached a compromise to comply with Trump-era executive orders that threaten to pull federal dollars over diversity, equity and inclusion. The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution and guiding principles Tuesday that require county leaders to comply with state and federal laws while also promoting access and opportunity. The resolution does not mention the words diversity, equity or inclusion, an intentional omission as officials try to walk a fine line to preserve over $135 million in federal funds at risk under the Trump administration. This is a necessary step, Chair Kathryn Harrington said. Some of you may not agree with the actual circumstances that were facing. Thats OK, thats your right. Some of you may not agree with our course of action tonight. That, too, is OK. Thats your right. County officials passed the resolution in response to Trumps executive orders that threatened to pull federal dollars or contracts from local governments, schools and private entities that promote diversity and inclusion programs and policies. The county board originally had proposed overturning a 2020 resolution that required the county to support and strengthen equity and inclusion in its programs, practices and policies, but officials changed course after intense pushback from county residents and Commissioner Nafisa Fai. The new resolution directs the county to create an accessible environment for people of all backgrounds and reaffirms its commitment to upholding the federal Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws preventing discrimination. It also requires the county administrator to review programs twice a year to ensure they comply with federal and state law. Officials paused signing any federal contracts or grants until the new resolution was finalized. Funding for housing assistance, health services for mothers and children and community grants were all at risk under Trumps executive orders, officials said. Fai voted to approve the new resolution and guidelines, but shared concerns about the federal governments attempts to sway local jurisdictions. She said the executive orders would not only bind the county, but trickle down to impact nonprofits and organizations that work with the county. Local government has a duty to stand between vulnerable communities and systems of harm, Fai said. These (executive) orders were never subject to full public debate, and in many cases directly contradict Oregon state law and Washington Countys values. Whats even more troubling is that once we sign these contracts, the compliance obligations dont stop with us. They cascade. Tuesdays meeting was heated, with a rowdy crowd and impassioned public testimony throughout the night. Fai proposed adding specific language acknowledging Oregons sanctuary laws before the resolution was passed, but commissioners shot it down. The crowd erupted into boos. Commissioner Jerry Willey explained that the countys attorneys advised against mentioning the sanctuary laws to avoid further legal trouble. We asked our legal counsel if this would change the impact of our resolution and order, putting us more at risk of not being able to access these funds which by the way every one of you will be impacted by the lack of these funds, Willey said. We were advised not to. Community members called on the county to do more to resist the federal government, like its neighbor Multnomah County did earlier this month when it joined two big lawsuits against the Trump administration. Those lawsuits contest that Trumps attempt to impose new conditions on federal grants is illegal, and that defunding sanctuary cities or jurisdictions also violates the law. County officials have said they dont have the resources to join those legal battles. Commissioner Pam Treece condemned the actions of the Trump administration, but said that the county needed to adapt to continue offering crucial services. I want to use terms that I heard tonight about our federal government: I agree that it is capricious and it is cruel, Treece said. We want to make sure that we are reducing our risk and we want to make sure that we can provide these dollars. Austin De Dios covers county politics, programs and more. Reach him at 503-319-9744, adedios@oregonian.com or @AustinDeDios. A Portland co-working space has relocated into a historic downtown building. David - stock.adobe.com One of Portlands oldest co-working spaces has moved into a historic downtown building across the street from Pioneer Courthouse Square. >> Business opening or closing in your neighborhood? Email the reporter at vnocera@oregonian.com. This person has taken away my security, my trust and my sense of safety, the victim said in a statement read aloud in court during Tuesday's sentencing. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian A man who sexually assaulted an unconscious woman at a TriMet transit center two years ago was sentenced Tuesday to 25 years in prison. Washington County Circuit Judge Kathleen Proctor also required that Eduardo Guillermo Madrid-Roque, 30, register as a sex offender. A jury earlier this year found Madrid-Roque guilty of multiple felony sex crimes for attacking a woman incapacitated by alcohol and medication at the Hillsboro transit center. Proctor described the womans state as particularly vulnerable. The woman had flown to Oregon from California on June 14, 2023, and she drank wine on the flight, becoming extremely intoxicated due to a change in medications, according to prosecutors. She fell unconscious at the transit center around 8 p.m. after traveling there from Portland International Airport, according to authorities. She lay there for about an hour before Madrid-Roque noticed her. He waited for other people to leave the area, then sexually assaulted her over the next 30 minutes, according to court records and prosecutors. Security cameras recorded the attack. Footage showed that Madrid-Roque stopped the assault when other people walked by and then started again, officials said. Proctor said those videos were very difficult to watch. Madrid-Roque eventually left the transit center by bus, and transit police found the woman lying on the sidewalk and unaware of her surroundings, according to prosecutors. Medical responders drove her to a hospital for evaluation. She had no memory of Madrid-Roque attacking her. Madrid-Roques assault wasnt uncovered until the next day, when transit police checked security footage hoping to find missing belongings the woman believed she may have left there, prosecutors said. Proctor described Madrid-Roques actions as deliberately cruel, noting that not only was the victim incapacitated, but she, at one point, tried to feebly kick away the defendants hands, and yet he persisted. The woman did not appear in court for Madrid-Roques sentencing, but wrote a statement read by Deputy District Attorney Christina Luedtke. No one has the right to touch my body without my consent, the woman said. This person has taken away my security, my trust and my sense of safety, her statement said. I am a 65-year-old grandmother and I have seen and been through many things in this life, but never have I felt such a sense of violation and damage. What he took from me is immeasurable. Police recognized Madrid Roque on the video footage from prior interactions, officials said. The Oregon State Police Crime Lab later confirmed that Madrid-Roques DNA was on the woman. Noelle Crombie is an enterprise reporter with a focus on criminal justice. Reach her at 503-276-7184 or ncrombie@oregonian.com. Hood Container Announces $118.9 Million Modernization Project at St. Francisville Paper Mill July 23, 2025 - Hood Container will invest $118.9 million to modernize its legacy paper mill in West Feliciana Parish in St. Francisville, Louisiana, allowing the company to significantly boost production capacity and quality to meet evolving market demands. The company is expected to retain 295 current positions with an estimated salary more than 30% above the parish average. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 819 indirect new jobs. "Investments like Hood Container's strengthen both our manufacturing base and our timber economy, positioning us to win with two industries that have deep roots in Louisiana." LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. "The timber industry plays a key role in growing Louisiana's agribusiness sector, which is one of the priority areas we've identified for future growth in our Comprehensive Statewide Strategic Plan. Hood Container's continuing modernization of their facility ensures the viability of the plant's historic presence in St. Francisville, meaning good-paying jobs for area residents." The project will center around upgrading Hood Container's primary paper machine, which will increase production capacity by 80,000 tons per year. With the manufacturing of more, higher-quality products, the company anticipates buying an additional 204,000 tons of wood chips and 22,000 tons of recycled boxes annually. The investment will also include significant improvements to the facility's recovery boiler, which is essential in powering the mill. "Hood Container is proud to continue growing our containerboard business with a new investment to our St. Francisville mill," Hood Container Senior Vice President Wayne Morgan said. "The State of Louisiana has been a valued partner since we acquired the facility in 2015, and we look forward to building on that strong relationship in the years ahead." The Hood Container facility was first opened in the late 1950s by Crown Zellerbach and later operated under Tembec. Since taking ownership in 2015, Hood Container has invested more than $160 million in the facility. The first phase of the upgrade will occur during the third quarter of 2026, and the remaining equipment and additions will be fully installed during the May 2027 annual mill outage. "This nearly $120 million investment by Hood Container is a big win for West Feliciana Parish," West Feliciana Parish President Kenny Havard said. "Since they first put down roots here in 2015, Hood Container has been a valued partner, continually investing in St. Francisville. We congratulate them on this significant project!" To secure the project, the State of Louisiana offered the company a competitive incentive package that includes an $800,000 Modernization Tax Credit to be paid out over a five-year period. Hood Container also is expected to utilize the state's Industrial Tax Exemption Program. "We're delighted to see Hood Container modernize their St. Francisville mill, and continue to deepen their presence in the Capital Region," Baton Rouge Area Chamber President and CEO Lori Melancon said. About Hood Container Corporation Hood Container Corporation is a family-owned, mill to market company specializing in containerboard and kraft paper, corrugated boxes, high graphic displays, and contract packaging. Its commitment to customer satisfaction, employee well-being, environmental stewardship and operational excellence have driven its growth and success. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) is responsible for driving capital investment, job creation and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes. SOURCE: Louisiana Economic Development Stora Enso Reports Second Quarter and Half-year 2025 Results "While market conditions remained challenging, we focused on the areas within our control enhancing sourcing, operational efficiency, commercial excellence, working capital, and fixed costs." Hans Sohlstrom, Presiddnt and CEO, Stora Enso. "While market conditions remained challenging, we focused on the areas within our control enhancing sourcing, operational efficiency, commercial excellence, working capital, and fixed costs." Hans Sohlstrom, Presiddnt and CEO, Stora Enso. July 23, 2025 - Stora Enso today reported Q2 and half-year 2025 results. Q2/2025 (year-on-year) Sales increased by 5% to EUR 2,426 (2,301) million, mainly due to higher deliveries and a positive impact from structural changes. Adjusted EBIT decreased by 18% to EUR 126 (153) million. Adjusted EBIT margin decreased to 5.2% (6.7%). The ramp-up of the new consumer board line at the Oulu site had a negative impact of approximately EUR 50 million. Operating result (IFRS) was EUR 64 (92) million, including items affecting comparability of EUR -35 million, and fair valuations and other non-operational items of EUR -27 million. Earnings per share were EUR 0.03 (0.05) and earnings per share excl. fair valuations (FV) were EUR 0.05 (0.06). The fair value of the forest assets increased to EUR 9.0 (8.7) billion, equivalent to EUR 11.40 per share. Cash flow from operations amounted to EUR 145 (323) million, impacted by the lower profit and decreasing trade payables. The net debt to adjusted EBITDA (LTM) ratio improved to 3.3 (3.5). Adjusted ROCE excluding the Forest segment (LTM) increased to 3.3% (1.1%). Key highlights In May, Stora Enso entered into an agreement to divest approximately 175,000 hectares of forest land, equivalent to 12.4% of its total forest land holdings in Sweden for an enterprise value of EUR 900 million, equivalent to SEK 9.8 billion. Stora Enso will retain a 15% ownership and secure long-term wood supply. Stora Enso has initiated a strategic review of its Swedish forest assets. The review includes assessing a potential separation and public listing of the forest assets. The ramp-up of the new consumer board line at the Oulu site in Finland is proceeding, and the line is expected to reach full capacity during 2027. The acquisition of the Finnish sawmill company Junnikkala Oy was completed during the quarter. Stora Enso implemented a new, leaner and flatter organisational structure as of 1 July 2025, dividing its packaging business into four main areas with a reinforced focus on renewable packaging as the core business: Foodservice and Liquid Board, Cartonboard, Containerboard, and Packaging Solutions. FTSE Russel has upgraded Stora Enso's ESG rating score from 4.4 to 4.6 (max 5.0), and ranked the Group as the best company in its sector. Stora Enso also remains included in the FTSE4Good Index Series. In July, Fitch confirmed that Stora Enso's credit rating will continue as BBB- with Stable Outlook Outlook and focus for 2025 Stora Enso expects market demand to remain subdued and volatile, affected by heightened macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty. Guidance Stora Enso anticipates that the adverse impact on adjusted EBIT for the full year of 2025, due to the ramp-up of the new consumer packaging board line at the Oulu site in Finland, will be around or somewhat above EUR 100 million. The Group's capital expenditure forecast for the full year of 2025 is EUR 730-790 million. In the third quarter of 2025, maintenance costs are expected to increase by approximately EUR 10 million from Q2/2025. Fiber costs are expected to remain at high levels. Focus for 2025 Continue systematic and determined work across the whole Group to improve profitability, cash flow, and cost competitiveness through a focus on sourcing, operational efficiency, commercial excellence, working capital, and fixed costs Complete the sale of 12.4% of Swedish forest assets. Conduct a strategic review of the remaining Swedish forest assets, including the assessment of a potential separation and public listing of the forest assets. Continue to build a leaner and flatter organisation by dividing the packaging business into four main areas Foodservice and Liquid Board, Cartonboard, Containerboard, and Packaging Solutions with a reinforced focus on renewable packaging as the core business. The new streamlined organisation will increase customer focus, drive operational efficiency through increased integration, reduce complexity, and enhance the Group's performance culture. Transition to a more integrated business model across the Nordic packaging board mills to improve the entire value chain and customer-centricity. Ramp up production and leverage the EUR 1 billion investment in the new packaging board line at the integrated mill in Oulu, Finland, to strengthen Stora Enso's competitive position. Outlook from Q2/2025 to Q3/2025 Markets remain volatile, with low consumer sentiment. The direct impact of the US tariffs at current rates is limited given that Stora Enso's direct sales to the USA account for only just below 3% of total group sales (2024). Tariffs impacting global trade present both risks and opportunities to our business. However, the main risk, as it currently stands, is the overall impact on the economy and trade flows. Overall demand in the packaging segments is expected to remain stable at a low level. Prices are expected to remain relatively stable, despite ongoing pressure from persistent overcapacity and increased competition from Asia in consumer boards. In euro terms, prices for overseas deliveries are expected to be negatively affected by a weaker US dollar. Market demand for pulp is expected to remain weak due to market uncertainty, the low season, and increased inventory levels. Market pulp prices are expected to continue decreasing or to flatten throughout the summer and into autumn, negatively impacted by a weaker US dollar. Following the holiday season, demand in the wood products markets is projected to return to previous low levels. Prices are expected to remain stable amid ongoing pressure from rising saw log costs. The Forest segment is estimated to maintain stable financial performance. The third quarter profitability will be negatively affected by the planned maintenance stops, approximately EUR 10 million, and the continuing ramp-up of the new line at Oulu, with an estimated impact of EUR 30-45 million. Stora Enso's complete half-year 2025 report with CEO comments can be found on th ecompany's website: www.storaenso.com. Stora Enso is a leading provider of renewable products in packaging, biomaterials, and wooden construction, and one of the largest private forest owners in the world. SOURCE: Stora Enso Valmet Appoints Jon Jested-Rask as Executive Vice President, Tissue Business Area Jon Jested-Rask Jon Jested-Rask July 23, 2025 - Valmet has appointed Jon Jested-Rask as Executive Vice President, Tissue Business Area, effective August 1, 2025. In this position he will report to the President and CEO Thomas Hinnerskov and is a member of Valmet's Executive Leadership Team. Jested-Rask brings over 20 years of international experience and has held several senior management positions. He joins Valmet from FLSmidth, where he served as Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations & Business Development. Prior to that, he held various leadership positions at Neles, Metso and Kemotron A/S. Jested-Rask will be based in Copenhagen, Denmark. "I am confident that Jon's expertise and collaborative approach will contribute significantly to our strategic goals and to the continued success of Tissue Business Area, especially as we Lead the way in transforming industries towards a regenerative tomorrow," said Thomas Hinnerskov, President and CEO, Valmet. "His leadership will be instrumental in driving innovation, sustainability, and long-term value for our customers and stakeholders." Valmet has a global customer base across various process industries and is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation, and services for the pulp, paper, and energy industries. SOURCE: Valmet Security is essential for any laptop, whether youre on a college laptop, a gaming laptop, or especially a business laptop. But college laptops face unique challenges. For example, if youre a student and youre connecting your own laptop to your schools network perhaps in a dorm then you should really be using a VPN for protection, especially for certain online activities. Keep reading for everything you need to know about keeping your college laptop safe, secure, and protected during the school year. Avoid viruses and other malware Protecting your PC against malware is essential. Whether were talking about viruses, worms, Trojans, rootkits, or any of the other gnarly things you may encounter online, an antivirus is critical protection. Modern Windows PCs come with Microsoft Defender Antivirus built-in, which is good enough for most people. Youll want to make sure real-time scanning is enabled, and there are other settings you should tweak. Our favorite antivirus suite Norton 360 Deluxe Read our review But if you want more features and top-of-the-line protection, a paid antivirus solution can be worth it. PCWorlds current top pick is Norton 360 Deluxe (see our review), which includes a wide variety of extra tools, including a feature that lets you control access to your webcam. Are you using a Chromebook? Good news! You dont need antivirus software. But regardless of your laptops operating system, you should always follow the best practices for staying safe online. Use a VPN to protect your privacy (and get around content blocks) Many college networks block you from viewing or accessing certain types of content. If you want to get around those content blocks and prevent your college IT department from seeing which websites you visit then you absolutely need a VPN. A VPN (virtual private network) is a service that lets you route your internet connection through their private servers, encrypting your traffic along the way so that no one can see what youre doing. This can be useful for getting around blocks, whether its to access certain websites or play Steam games. Indeed, if your college IT department blocks or throttles Steam, a VPN can let you play anyway. Want to get around content blocks without a VPN? One option is to turn your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot, then connect your laptop to your phone. Youll end up burning through mobile data, but at least the traffic wont go through your college network. Our favorite VPN for torrenting NordVPN VPNs are especially critical if you plan on torrenting at college. Of course, I dont condone doing anything illegal. Whatever you end up doing while connected to a VPN is ultimately your responsibility. When in doubt, dont do anything on a college network that you wouldnt do if you knew people were watching you. Even if what youre doing isnt technically illegal, you could still be violating your colleges code of conduct or honor system. Set your college network to public Whether youre connecting your laptop to a Wi-Fi network or a wired Ethernet connection, youll want to keep that network set as a public network in Windows. If youre on a public network, Windows Firewall will protect you and disallow others on the network from connecting to shared files and other services on your laptop. (The private network setting should only be used for networks where you trust everyone whos connected, such as your home network.) Chris Hoffman / IDG On Windows 11 laptops, Windows automatically sets new networks as public networks. In that case, leave the setting alone dont set a network as private unless you trust everyone on it. On Windows 10 laptops, Windows will ask you whether you want your PC to be discoverable whenever you first connect to a new network. Say No unless you absolutely trust the network. Safeguard your passwords Password managers are extremely useful if you want to practice good password hygiene for near-zero effort and you should have good password hygiene, especially in college when youre going to be juggling lots of different accounts for various purposes. The best free password manager Bitwarden Read our review Best Prices Today: A password manager stores all of your username and password combinations in a single place and remembers which sites and apps go with them. When you reach a login page, the password manager can auto-fill the right login credentials for your convenience. But while convenience is nice, the real value of a password manager is that you no longer have to memorize your passwords. You can make them as strong and complex as needed, and you can have a unique one for each account. All of this maximizes your online security. Further reading: The best password managers Beyond strong, unique passwords, you should also use two-factor authentication to make your accounts even more secure. And dont neglect using a strong password for logging into the laptop itself. Consider using a Windows Hello fingerprint login or Chromebook fingerprint login for better security. Protect against theft (and be able to find your laptop if its stolen) Hopefully, no one will walk off with your laptop. But if you want peace of mind for that sort of thing, you might want to select a college laptop that has a Kensington lock slot. Then, youll be able to lock your laptop to your desk in your dorm, for example. If your laptop is ever stolen, you can use the built-in Find My Device feature on Windows to locate it. But in order for it to work, you need to have the feature enabled before your laptop is stolen. Chris Hoffman / IDG To enable Find My Device on Windows 11, navigate to Settings > Privacy & security > Find my device. On Windows 10, head to Settings > Update & Security > Find my device. You can then use Microsofts online Find My Device tool to not only track your laptops location but also lock it down remotely. Find My Device isnt as accurate for laptops as similar features would be for phones because laptops dont have cellular connections and arent on all the time. However, Find My Device may work better than expected on a college campus as long as the laptop stays connected to the college network and doesnt leave campus. Using a Chromebook? Unfortunately, Googles Find My Device feature doesnt track Chromebooks like it does with Android phones. Encrypt the files on your laptop In case you lose your laptop and cant find it with Find My Device, you dont want your data to fall into the wrong hands so youll want to encrypt your files ahead of time. Most modern Windows 11 PCs have a feature called Device Encryption, and it might already be enabled if you sign into your laptop with a Microsoft account. If you sign into Windows with a local user account, Device Encryption wont be enabled and your files are at risk. Chris Hoffman / IDG You can check whether Device Encryption is enabled on your PC from the Settings app. On Windows 11, head to Settings > Privacy & security and look for a Device encryption option. Get Windows 11 Pro for cheap Windows 11 Pro If you want more control, you can always set up BitLocker encryption on Windows but youll have to pay for a more expensive Windows Professional license for that feature. (You can get a legit Windows Pro upgrade license for just $59 instead of $99 in PCWorlds software store if youre interested!) Using a Chromebook as your college laptop? Chromebooks always have encrypted storage, so you dont need to worry about this. Back up your files regularly Backups are essential. Who wants to redo an entire paper or project due to a corrupted file or broken hard drive? Not you! At the very least, make sure youre storing your files on the cloud, whether through OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, or whatever you prefer. This way youll have access to your files on all your devices, even if your college laptop suddenly breaks one day. The best for cloud backups iDrive Online Cloud Backup Read our review Best Prices Today: But for true data safety, consider using proper cloud backup software. It may cost you, but youll thank yourself if you ever lose everything at the worst possible time. See our picks for the best cloud backup software. On top of that, you should enable the File History feature in Windows for free, effective, continuous backups of your data. Now your college laptop is protected While using a laptop at college comes with unique challenges, much of the cybersecurity advice here is the same for any PC. If you want to go beyond, check out the best free security tools for your PC. Weve recommended some paid software options throughout this article, but none of them are absolutely necessary. Free alternatives exist, and most of them are good enough. In the end, you can keep your college laptop safe and secure without spending a dime. Scala Data Centres, which describes itself as Latin Americas leading platform for sustainable digital infrastructure serving the hyperscale market, says it has secured its first international project finance transaction: US$254 million in long-term funding to support the construction of three hyperscale data centres and a major power substation in Chile. When combined with a VAT facility, the total financing package reaches US$328 million. Scala says the deal, backed by a consortium of four top-tier global banks, also represents the largest project finance deal ever executed for a single-country data centre initiative in Latin America. Unlike typical deals structured through special purpose vehicles (SPVs), Scala says it innovated by leveraging its existing Chilean corporate structure, raising the bar for compliance, transparency, and execution discipline. The transaction underwent exhaustive due diligence processes across multiple legal jurisdictions, including US and Chilean law. This project includes the expansion of Scalas footprint across Curauma in Valparaiso (already operational), Lampa, northwest of Santiago, and Huechuraba 2 in Santiago Province, alongside the construction of the Nova Lampa substation critical to ensuring reliable renewable energy delivery. With 23 megawatts of contracted IT capacity and an additional 30 MW already contractually reserved for significant expansion under pre-established hyperscaler agreements, the deal provides strategic flexibility and financial scalability. Sala suggests it also sets a strong precedent for replicable growth in other Latin American markets. In line with Scalas ESG commitments, the new sites in Chile will operate with 100% certified renewable energy, zero-waste water, and best-in-class energy efficiency metrics. The project also complies with local hiring mandates and community engagement programmes, contributing to economic development across the regions where Scala operates. While a timetable does not yet seem to have been revealed, Scala says that the construction phase is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and the new infrastructure will play a critical role in elevating Chiles position as a strategic digital gateway between Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Microsoft may not kill or nerf products and services with the same rigor as Google, but itll still retool its offerings. Case in point: Microsoft Authenticator, which has slowly lost features this summerand is about to lose even more starting August 1. Adding and importing passwords ended back in June, and autofill stopped working this month as well. Starting August 1, any saved passwords or saved payment data will no longer be available in the app. Microsoft isnt deleting saved passwords altogether, though. Those will be accessible through Microsoft Edge (surprise), which you can also use for autofilling your passwords across devices. (So long as you download and install the app on all your devices, including phones, of course.) But Microsoft stresses in its post describing these changes that only saved passwords will make the transition to Edgegenerated passwords and your history of generated passwords wont be ported over. If you want to retain that latter data, you must manually save it from Generator history in Microsoft Authenticators Password tab to your saved passwords. Funnily enough, Microsoft Authenticator isnt completely disassociating itself from saved credentials. While passwords will get dumped, passkeys will still be supported in Microsoft Authenticator. In fact, if youve created passkeys for your Microsoft account, you must keep the Microsoft Authenticator app as the manager for your passkeysotherwise theyll become disabled. Our favorite Password Manager Dashlane Read our review Best Prices Today: If you dont want to use Microsoft Edge as your password manager, you can export your passwords from the Microsoft Authenticator app, then import them into a different service. Paid password managers offer a wider set of useful features, like secure password sharing, emergency vault access, additional forms of two-factor authentication, and more. But even a good free password manager like Bitwarden is a good alternativeand upgrading to its paid service costs just $10 per year. (Yes, the whole year.) Another worker in the Adams County-based Plainville Farms animal abuse case has pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges. State police have said workers kicked, stomped and beat turkeys at the companys farms in Chester, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Perry and Union counties. Francisco Mitchell Lebron-Cruz, 45, of Thomasville, York County, pleaded guilty to cruelty to animals in Cumberland County court on Tuesday. He was convicted of wringing a turkeys neck on a factory farm and throwing it on the floor. He also pleaded guilty to misdemeanor cruelty in August 2023 for crimes in Union County related to the case. Lebron-Cruz was sentenced to one year of probation. During his probation, he is not allowed have any employment that involves the care or custody of animals. This screenshot from a video provided by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals shows a worker at Plainville Farms in Pennsylvania abusing turkeys they were hired to catch and herd. (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, file) PETA In this image made from an undated video released by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), an employee at an undisclosed turkey farm in Pennsylvania grabs a turkey by its head before throwing it. (PETA via AP, file) PETA via AP Pennsylvania State Police charged 12 former Plainville workers with a total of 141 counts of cruelty to animals. The investigation into the case began after a 2021 People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) investigation. Eight other former Plainville farms workers have pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges, and one pleaded no contest to the charges. Video taken by an undercover PETA investigator shows workers throwing turkeys and kicking them out of the way. Convictions are stacking up for these abusers, who added to the suffering of terrified turkeys already staring down death, PETA Vice President of Legal Advocacy Daniel Paden said. After the investigation, Plainville Farms lost its humanely raised claim, according to MeatPoultry.com. A stabbing in Cumberland County last year that killed a teen and wounded his brother was self-defense after the siblings attacked a laundromat employee, according to charging documents filed last week by police against the surviving brother. Dylan M. Moore, 21, of Shippensburg, was charged with 11 crimes, including five felonies, in connection with an attack against the employee and his wife at 9:45 p.m. Oct. 27 in Shippensburg that ended with the employee stabbing Moore and his brother Christopher Nunn II. Nunn, 19, of San Antonio, Texas, died from his stab wounds. His death was ruled a homicide, which means it occurred at the hands of another. But coroner rulings only indicate how someone died, not whether they are criminally liable. A Lebanon County man broke into a womans apartment, tackled her, took her cellphone and held her captive with a stun gun on July 15, according to a criminal complaint. Roy Craig Jr., of Palmyra, was charged by the South Lebanon Township Police with burglary, false imprisonment, simple assault, criminal trespassing and possession of drug paraphernalia. In the two weeks before the incident, Craig was arrested twice for violating a protection from abuse order against the woman. The woman said Craig never lived at the apartment and was not invited there. Police were dispatched to the womans apartment after a neighbor called 911 and said she heard a blood-curdling scream coming from the apartment. The neighbor later told police she saw a shirtless man running from the apartment after he realized she called 911. When police arrived, they found a woman bleeding from her forearms. She told police when she arrived at her apartment, Craig jumped at her from a stairwell where he was waiting. When the woman tried to run, Craig tackled her and she cut her arms on broken glass on the ground, police said. Craig then took her cellphone and stopped her from leaving with a stun gun, according to police. He also told her he paid someone $1,000 to kill her and interrogated her on paranoid thoughts he was having, police said. Craig also told the woman he placed a tracker in her glove compartment, police said. She later found a tracking device in her car, police said. Police did not say if, or how, Craig knew the woman. Police said they found a bag in the womans apartment with what they described as crack pipes inside and Craigs drivers license. Later that evening, a man called police and said he found a shirtless man inside his horse barn who then ran into farm fields. Police found a shirtless Craig at the Lebanon Expo Center grounds. He is being held in Lebanon County Prison after he was unable to post $250,000 bail. Ellen DeGeneres is no longer interested in living in the United States. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) Matt Sayles/Invision/AP Popular comedian and former talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has revealed that she and her wife were unhappy living in the U.S. due to President Trumps administration. DeGeneres and her wife, former actress Portia De Rossi, had planned on making the U.K. a part-time living situation, but have since decided that they are staying there, following Trumps reelection. We got here the day before the election and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis, and I was like, He got in, DeGeneres told BBC. And were like, Were staying here. In her first public appearance since making the announcement last November, DeGeneres told the crowd during a comedy show in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, that life is just better in the UK. DeGeneres also said that while they didnt move at the most opportune time, she and her wife are finding that the U.K. is beautiful. Its absolutely beautiful, DeGeneres said. Were just not used to seeing this kind of beauty. The villages and the towns and the architecture everything you see is charming, and its just a simpler way of life. Its clean. Everything here is just better the way animals are treated, people are polite. I just love it here. We moved here in November, which was not the ideal time, but I saw snow for the first time in my life, DeGeneres said. We love it here. Portia flew her horses here, and I have chickens, and we had sheep for about two weeks. DeGeneres decision follows recent developments in LGBTQ+ rights and same-sex marriage in the U.S., and she mentioned the Southern Baptists national meeting in June. During the meeting, an overwhelming majority of the 10,000 church representatives called to overturn the U.S. Supreme Courts 10-year-old ruling that legalized gay marriage. The Baptist Church in America is trying to reverse gay marriage, DeGeneres said. Theyre trying to literally stop it from happening in the future and possibly reverse it. Portia and I are already looking into it, and if they do that, were going to get married here. DeGeneres joins the likes of stars like Rosie ODonnell and Eva Longoria, who also cited Donald Trumps reelection as their main reason for leaving the United States. President Donald Trump listens during a meeting with Bahrain's Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Donald Trump has lashed out at followers for continuing to ask about the Epstein files across the past couple of weeks, and a new report from the Wall Street Journal appears to shed light on why that might be. When Attorney General Pam Bondi reviewed the truckload of documents she said she had on the case earlier this year, she discovered that the presidents name appeared in them multiple times, the outlet reported citing senior administration officials. The Wall Street Journal said Bondi met with Trump in May and informed him that he was named in the files. The site said that Trump was told many other high-profile figures were also named. Being named in the files is not proof that a crime was committed. The officials who spoke to the Wall Street Journal said that the files contained what they felt was unverified hearsay about many people, including Trump. The officials said Trump said at the meeting he would defer to the Justice Department on whether or not to release the files. Trump is currently suing the Wall Street Journal for its report that he sent Jeffrey Epstein a provocative card with a sketch of a naked woman for his 50th birthday. Trump was actually named in the Epstein Files: Phase 1 released by Bondi back in February. You can review the files on the justice departments website, here. Trump is listed on the flight logs a total of seven times. Also, previously reported to be on the Epstein flight logs, per Newsweek, were the likes of former president Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew of England, Naomi Campbell, David Copperfield, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cameron Diaz, former vice president Al Gore, Stephen Hawking and Bruce Willis. PEOPLE said Trump was listed on page 24 of the first flight log which was dated Oct. 11, 1993, and twice more on page 27 with at the time, Marla Maples, daughter Tiffany Trump and a nanny on May 15, 1994. PEOPLE said three of the dates that Trump was on the flight logs also had Epsteins initials on them as well. Ghislaine Maxwell, the site said, had her initials listed on an Oct. 1993 flight along with Trump. To be clear, flying on Epsteins plane does not mean the president or any of those celebrities committed a crime. Trump has drawn criticism across the past two weeks after his administration announced that there was no Epstein client list to release. The Radical Left Democrats have hit pay dirt, again! Trump wrote on Truth Social amid the stir. Just like with the FAKE and fully discredited Steele Dossier, the lying 51 intelligence Agents, the Laptop from Hell, which the Dems swore had come from Russia (No, it came from Hunter Bidens bathroom!), and even the Russia, Russia, Russia, scam itself, a totally fake and made up story used in order to hide Crooked Hillary Clintons big loss in the 2016 Presidential Election, these scams and Hoaxes are all the Democrats are good at Its all they have They are no good at governing, no good at policy, and no good at picking winning candidates. Also, unlike Republicans, they stick together like glue, he continued. Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this bullshit, hook, line, and sinker. They havent learned their lesson, and probably never will, even after being conned by the Lunatic Left for 8 long years. Trump was not through. I have had more success in 6 months than perhaps any President in our Countrys history, and all these people want to talk about, with strong prodding by the Fake News and the success starved Dems, is the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, he wrote. Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats work, dont even think about talking about our incredible and unprecedented success, because I dont want their support anymore! Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! It was Trumps administration and Bondi who made a spectacle of the release of part of the files in February, inviting MAGA social media influencers into the White House and handing them binders before posing for a photo opp. Also in February, Bondi was asked about the Epstein client list while on Fox, and she said, Its sitting on my desk right now to review. Thats been a directive form President Trump. Im reviewing that. But Bondi reversed course recently, with Trump by her side, and said there would be no client list release. And, after MAGA, which had been promised for months that heads would roll when the files were released, began to call for her to be fired, Trump first lashed out at them, too. Whats going on with my boys and, in some cases, gals? Trump wrote on Truth Social. Theyre all going after Attorney General Pam Bondi, who is doing a FANTASTIC JOB! Were on one Team, MAGA, and I dont like whats happening. We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and selfish people are trying to hurt it, all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein. For years, its Epstein, over and over again, he continued. Why are we giving publicity to files written by Obama, Crooked Hillary, Comey, Brennan, and the Losers and Criminals of the Biden Administration, who conned the World with the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, 51 Intelligence Agents, THE LAPTOP FROM HELL, and More? They created the Epstein Files, just like they created the FAKE Hillary Clinton/Christopher Steele Dossier that they used on me, and now my so-called friends are playing right into their hands. Why didnt these Radical Left Lunatics release the Epstein Files? he continued. If there was ANYTHING in there that could have hurt the MAGA Movement, why didnt they use it? They havent even given up on the John F. Kennedy or Martin Luther King Jr. Files. No matter how much success we have had, securing the Border, deporting Criminals, fixing the Economy, Energy Dominance, a Safer World where Iran will not have Nuclear Weapons, its never enough for some people. WE are about to achieve more in 6 months than any other Administration has achieved in over 100 years, and we have so much more to do. We are saving our Country and, MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, which will continue to be our complete PRIORITY, he continued. The Left is imploding! Kash Patel, and the FBI, must be focused on investigating Voter Fraud, Political Corruption, ActBlue, The Rigged and Stolen Election of 2020, and arresting Thugs and Criminals, instead of spending month after month looking at nothing but the same old, RADICAL LEFT inspired Documents on Jeffrey Epstein. LET PAM BONDI DO HERE JOB SHES GREAT. The 2020 Election was Rigged and Stolen, and they tried to the same thing in 2024. Thats what she is looking into as AG, and much more. One year ago our Country was DEAD, now its the HOTTEST Country anywhere in the World. Lets keep it that way, and not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about. The Hershey Company said it has warned retailers about price increases this year. THE PATRIOT-NEWS Hersheys Kisses, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Kit Kats are soon about to get pricier. The Hershey Company recently informed its retail partners it is raising prices by a percentage in the low double-digits. The Derry Township company cites rising cocoa prices as the reason. Were committed to delivering the treats consumers love while continuing to invest in making our products and experiences even better. To support our approach, were making a price adjustment with our retail customers, said a company spokesperson. Chocolate prices have been ticking upwards the past several years. The increases are the result of bad weather and crop disease in Ghana and the Ivory Coast in Western Africa, one of the worlds key cocoa growing regions. In 2024, cocoa futures increased 178% after a 61% hike in 2023, according to data from FactSet. Due to these shortages, chocolate manufacturers across the industry have no choice but to raise prices on all products, from everyday drug store chocolates to premium chocolate bars. Hershey, Nestle and Mondelez have all increased prices and warned of further hikes. Hershey noted in its statement the price hikes are not related to tariffs or trade policies. The spokesperson said Hershey has worked hard to absorb the price hikes, emphasizing about 75% of its products still sell for under $4. Hershey wasnt specific on when the price increases will take effect. Typically, in the retail industry it takes about 90 days for prices to change, depending on the retailer. Hershey has addressed the rising cocoa prices in the past. In February, company President Michele Buck warned that the surge in cocoa prices would put significant pressure on 2025 earnings." During a May earnings call, Buck stressed the company would lean into products that are less cocoa intensive in response to the higher cocoa prices. Its a strategy, she said fits with Hersheys vision to become a snacking powerhouse. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham shared cryptic messages to social media last week, sparking rumors of a reunion. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File) Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham got their fans a-chattering after openly sharing a cryptic message with each other. This chatter mostly circled around the question: Are the famed Fleetwood Mac duo reuniting? It all started last week when Nicks whos touring around the United States starting next month with a stop at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey posted a handwritten note reading And if you go forward to Instagram. Buckingham, in turn, shared his own note: Ill meet you there. Eagle-eyed fans clocked these lyrics as being a part of the pairs song Frozen Love, a tune from their album Buckingham Nicks. This caused many to go into a spiral, ecstatic at the prospect that a reunion might be in the future (although Nicks has previously stated theres no chance of a reunion following the death of Christine McVie in 2022). The world is getting a Stevie and Lindsey reunion before [Grand Theft Auto 6], reads a comment referencing the long-awaited game. STEPHANIE, PLEASE, reads another. Were fragile, were hanging on by a thread, dont play with us. Well, the tumultuous waiting is over: Nicks and Buckingham confirmed Wednesday that about 50 years after its debut Buckingham Nicks is getting reissued. While this isnt the reunion tour fans crave, they are getting a re-release of the only full-length album the two recorded on their own. This piece of magical music is still my all-time favorite album, reads an X comment. I am so glad it has risen from the grave! Fabulous! Love you both, thank you, states another. This Buckingham Nicks reissue will feature the same album cover as the original. A press release announcing the album states that it will be available in all formats streaming included on Sept. 19. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Dave Vanian of The Damned performs during Forever Now Festival at The National Bowl on June 22, 2025 in Milton Keynes, England. The band just cancelled several of their upcoming shows in North America. (Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns) Redferns An iconic punk band has just announced the cancellation of several upcoming shows. Its still unclear as to what led to this cancellation as of the publishing of this report. NME reports how The Damned the London, England-based group formed in the mid-1970s revealed they were forced to cancel tour dates in North America due to unforeseen circumstances in a statement published to social media on Tuesday. We are very sorry to have to cancel our Seattle, Portland and Vancouver shows this weekend, due to an unexpected and catastrophic event at a member of The Damneds home, the statement reads. We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Refunds will be available for our two headline shows at your point of purchase. Thank you for your message, and many prayers for matters to develop as positively as possible, an X user commented. Hope everyone is ok wrote another. The announcement said catastrophic event at the home, someone on Reddit pointed out. Hopefully not too serious. Billboard notes that as it stands now The Damned are still scheduled to perform at Lokerse Feesten in Belgium in August. Theyre also still set to return to the United States starting with a show in St. Louis, Missouri in September. In this photo provided by Alley and Tim Wade, cars can be seen in floodwaters in Westernport, Maryland on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (Alley and Tim Wade via AP) AP By Hannah Gaskill, Baltimore Sun (TNS) President Donald Trump denied disaster assistance for Western Maryland Wednesday that Gov. Wes Moore requested following massive floods that hit the region in May. In a statement Wednesday, Moore, a Democrat, said that the flooding, which caused evacuations in Garret and Allegany counties after Georges Creek overflowed following three days of extreme rainfall, clearly met disaster assistance criteria under the Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA). The floods occurred between May 12 and May 14. Moore requested disaster assistance on June 13. According to Moores statement, assessments performed by FEMA, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and local officials estimated $15.8 million in emergency response costs and infrastructural damage, including including more than 200 homes, numerous businesses, roads and bridges, railroads, sewer systems, drinking water, and public utilities. Moore said that, historically, the president awards disaster assistance if the joint damage assessment shows eligible costs over the county and state thresholds. Marylands indicator is $11,674,953. Allegany Countys is $321,460. These estimates are above and beyond the thresholds for disaster assistance set by FEMA, said Moore. In a photo provided by Alley and Tim Wade, students are being rescued by boat after flash flooding in Westernport, MD., Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (Alley and Tim Wade via AP) AP The state provided financial assistance to Allegany County in the wake of the floods $459,375 from the State Disaster Recovery Fund, and $1 million through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. We will continue to stand with our fellow Marylanders in Western Maryland as they rebuild from the damage caused in May, said Moore. This story will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Hannah Gaskill at hgaskill@baltsun.com. 2025 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. A Minnesota state senator who was convicted of breaking into her stepmother's house will resign next month, her attorneys said. A jury on Friday found Democratic state Sen. Nicole Mitchell guilty of first-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools after her April 2024 arrest when police found her in her stepmother's basement. In a press release published by Minnesota Public Radio, Mitchell's attorneys said that she needed two weeks to wrap up legislative projects, complete ongoing constituent services, transition her staff and obtain health insurance gap coverage for her son, who is insured through her job in the state Senate. "Once these tasks are completed, Senator Mitchell will tender her resignation," the statement said, adding that it would come "no later" than the end of Aug. 4. "It was the honor of her lifetime to serve her District and the State of Minnesota," it added. Republican members of the closely divided Minnesota Senate had been calling for Mitchell's resignation since her arrest last year. Mitchell often cast the deciding vote, including on motions put forth by Senate Republicans to prohibit her from voting after her arrest, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune. According to a probable cause complaint published by the Minneapolis Star Tribune, police found Mitchell, now 50, in her stepmother's basement, dressed in black and carrying a flashlight that she had darkened with a black sock. She told officers that she entered the home through the basement window to retrieve some items that belonged to her father, who had recently died, the complaint said. She said she had gotten into an argument with her stepmother and they were no longer speaking, the complaint said. "I know I did something bad," Mitchell said during her arrest, which was captured on body camera. However, Mitchell later denied that she had entered the home with the intention of stealing and said she had only wanted to check in on the well-being of her stepmother, who has Alzheimer's disease. She maintained that position when she testified during her trial and said that she trespassed but did not steal anything. Under Minnesota law, burglary in the first degree holds a minimum sentence of six months and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; Mitchell has not yet been sentenced. Her resignation comes during a turbulent year for the Minnesota state Senate. The Democrats held a narrow majority in the legislature at the time of Mitchell's arrest. The state Senate convened in January with a tied legislative body. The Democrats regained the majority following a special election and the resignation of Republican state Sen. Justin Eichorn, who had stepped down after he was arrested and charged with soliciting a minor. Shortly after Mitchell's attorneys stated her plan to resign, Republicans had announced the death of Republican state Sen. Bruce Anderson, which means Democrats will continue to hold a narrow majority. Mark Johnson, the Republican leader of Minnesota state Senate who had called for Mitchell's "immediate" resignation following the verdict in her trial, objected to her plan to resign by Aug. 4. "Senator Mitchell was convicted of two felonies; she doesn't get to give the Senate two weeks' notice," he said in a statement. Johnson noted that Senate Republicans had attempted to expel Mitchell several times since her arrest, but their attempts were blocked by Senate Democrats each time. "The only reason Mitchell is still in office is because Democrats needed her vote to pass their agenda and refused to hold her accountable during session," he said. "They put political power ahead of Minnesotans, and Mitchell continues to put her personal interests ahead of institutional integrity." (COMMENT, BELOW) Satellite operator SES announced on Tuesday it has launched its latest pair of O3b mPOWER satellites, bringing its next-gen constellation to ten MEO satellites providing global coverage. The ninth and tenth mPOWER satellites were launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Tuesday. SES said the two new satellites will enhance global coverage of its mPOWER broadband service and bring incremental capacity to scale up services, with connectivity options ranging from tens of Mbps to multiple gigabits per second of capacity to any site. The remaining three O3b mPOWER satellites are currently being manufactured and are scheduled for launch in 2026. SES said those satellites will deliver as much as a threefold increase in available capacity by 2027 when the entire constellation is fully deployed. The O3b mPOWER constellation went live last year, although the first six satellites to be launched contain a design glitch that has caused power modules to switch off, thus shortening their operational life. Four of them were already in orbit before the glitch was discovered in August 2023. The latest pair of satellites have been redesigned to eliminate the power issue, as are the previous pair of satellites launched in December 2024. With this launch we continue adding incremental capacity to our initial O3b mPOWER constellation, strengthening our MEO network and delivering high throughput and predictable low latency services at scale, said SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh in a statement. SES has signed mPOWER deals with operators in Ecuador, Brazil, United Arab Emirates, the Cook Islands, Senegal and other countries in Africa, among others. Indias Reliance Jio Infocomm plans to use O3b mPOWER satellites for its satellite broadband service JioSpaceFiber. By Ximena Conde, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) Federal immigration authorities say a story about an 82-year-old Chilean national being arrested in Philadelphia and deported to Guatemala after trying to replace his lost green card is a hoax. The tale, reported by the Morning Call on Friday, described how Luis Leon traveled from his home in Allentown to Philadelphia immigration offices for what he thought was a routine appointment, only to be taken away in handcuffs. The family told reporters Leon had been granted asylum in 1987 after surviving torture during Augusto Pinochets regime. For ICE to surreptitiously deport an octogenarian green-card holder to a third country would have marked yet another escalation in removal efforts by President Donald Trumps administration. News outlets overseas and in this country, from the Guardian to the Daily Beast, reported on the story. But claims of deportation quickly began to crack, as a Chilean reporter found that the real Luis Leon had died years ago and the photo circulating of the alleged missing man was of someone else entirely. The discrepancies highlight the challenges in covering immigration arrests and removals and how affected families can fear reprisal for speaking out. Is there an Allentown grandfather, perhaps going by another name, who was arrested by ICE in Philadelphia on June 20 and sent to a country he had never set foot in? Heres what we know. A miraculous reappearance The Morning Call learned about Leons case during a July 9 Lehigh County commissioners meeting. Michele Downing, whom The Inquirer could not reach for comment, told the story of a Chilean grandfather who had been arrested while trying to replace his green card. She told commissioners, who also did not respond to a request for comment, that the man had died in ICE custody. Leons granddaughter, who served as the primary contact for the Morning Calls story, told the reporters that news of the death came from a woman who described herself as an attorney. The woman claimed to know where Leon was and said she could help return him home. People wait outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Philadelphia in June 2025. (Tom Gralish/The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS, file) TNS The granddaughter, who is referred to only by the name Natalya for privacy reasons, told reporters the alleged lawyer told the family he had died in ICE custody. A week later, the family heard it is unclear from whom that Leon was not dead; he was in a Guatemalan hospital. The granddaughter told reporters she was in Guatemala City on Saturday and met with an emaciated, weak Leon, who allegedly said he did not want to return to the United States. Guatemalan officials issued a statement denying that such a man had entered the country. Discrepancies emerge On Sunday, the Guatemalan Institute of Migration said it had no record of a man who matched Leons name, age, or citizenship. The statement contradicted the granddaughters claim she was with him in a Guatemala City hospital. No other outlet, including The Inquirer, has been able to corroborate the account laid out by Leons family over the weekend. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said in a scathing statement that it had no record that a man named Luis Leon had a green card appointment in or around Philadelphia on June 20. ICE spokesperson Jason Koontz added the agency had no record of any arrests at the 41st Street center matching the description of the grandfather that his family offered reporters in the original story. The only record immigration authorities had of a Chilean by that name entering the country was through the visa waiver program in 2015. If that person is the Leon family grandfather, it would contradict claims he had received asylum years before. The Morning Call said in a story Monday night that Leons alleged granddaughter had stopped communicating with the news outlet. Tricia McLaughlin, Department of Homeland Security assistant secretary for public affairs, called the Morning Call stories journalistic malpractice. ICE never arrested or deported Luis Leon to Guatemala, she wrote, adding the agency does not disappear people, as claimed by immigration rights advocates. Does Luis Leon from Chile exist? Jose Maria del Pino, a Chilean reporter with Canal 13, jumped into the story as outrage and concern spread. Working with the name Luis Leon and a date of birth, del Pino found a man who matched that information, with the full name of Luis Guillermo Zuniga Leon. This is the man who had entered the United States in 2015, he said, but he never lived abroad. Whats more, that man died in Chile in 2019, according to a death certificate del Pino shared with The Inquirer. Del Pino said Chilean diplomats held emergency meetings to track the alleged missing man. The Chilean consulate scoured Guatemala City hospitals to no avail, according to del Pino. Soon after del Pino broadcast what he had found Monday morning, Luis Guillermo Zuniga Leons family reached out to the station, cementing the reporting. Another family reached out to Canal 13 to inform the station that the photo of the alleged Luis Leon circulating across the world was of another Chilean man entirely. In the end, the Chilean government gave up on a continued search in Guatemala City because they came to the conclusion that the story was false, or we were faced with a Chilean who did not want to be found, and we were looking for a fake identity, del Pino said. Morning Call editor John Misinco said reporters planned to publish a follow-up piece. Immigration rights advocates double down Ramped-up immigration enforcement means arrests can take place during routine appointments, as seen on Fathers Day in Philadelphia, or while someone is at work. Confirming ICE operations with a department spokesperson can also be a slow process. When 17 people were arrested in a workplace raid in Bethlehem on June 11, the official confirmation was not published until a week later. Due to the confusion, it is not unusual for families to close ranks after a loved one has been arrested and slated to be deported. Some worry going public will attract further attention from immigration authorities. Often, immigration advocacy groups like Juntos or Make the Road Pennsylvania help families field interview requests with local media. The Lehigh Valley Emergency Response Network, a coalition that manages an ICE hotline and rapid response effort when someone is deported, pushed back on ICEs damning rebuttal, saying it had been in touch with the Leon family. ICE works to sow confusion about the whereabouts and well-being of the people that they are kidnapping, and we are committed to defending the families being torn apart by these disappearances, the group said in a statement Tuesday. But the group would not say whether an 82-year-old grandfather was arrested in Philadelphia on June 20, perhaps under another name. Coalition officials also said they could not connect The Inquirer with the familys attorney, citing the familys request for privacy. The story drew international attention, they said, and the family was retreating. Sorting through the noise Messages to members of the Allentown City Council, the Lehigh Valley Board of Commissioners, people who had publicly offered legal services to the family, the Chilean Embassy in Washington, and the Chilean Embassy in New York City were largely not returned. Those who did respond privately expressed concern about the validity of the story, not having confirmed it themselves. Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk said he had given everyone his number in hopes of talking to the family, to no avail. Im still trying to figure out whats going on here, he said. A Harrisburg-based nonprofit will manage a local parking lot where the citys homeless population will be able to sign up to secure space for tents that will include cooking areas and portable bathrooms. The nonprofit, Amiracle4sure Inc., confirmed the 3.5-acre lot purchase for $670,000, to CBS 21. Harrisburg city spokesperson Mischelle Moyer told the TV station in a statement that Dauphin County bought the lot, but the city will help where it can with issues such as trash and policing. Update: As of around 10:15 p.m. on Wednesday, the road was reopened. Pennsylvania State Police responded to a fatal crash in Lebanon County on Wednesday, according to a PennDOT spokesperson. The crash took place just after 4:30 p.m. along U.S. Route 22 east, near Coon Creek Road. U.S. 22 east is closed between Gravel Hill Road and Jonestown Road, PennDOT said. It is expected to reopen around 10 p.m. It is unclear how many vehicles were involved in the crash or if any others were injured. The name, age and address of the victim have not been made public as of Wednesday evening. PennDOT said Pennsylvania State Police in Harrisburg responded to the crash, although the incident took place in Lebanon County. Its the second fatal crash in central Pennsylvania on Wednesday. A person died in Dauphin County early in the morning. Pastor Roussel Costume, left, of the First Haitian Christian Assembly in Enola, said a federal judge's order striking down a Trump administration policy leaves pressing questions about the future of Haitian immigrants in this country. He is pictured with his wife, Dieudonne Costume, and Truong Phuong of the International Service Center in Harrisburg. Joyce M. Davis The head of a Haitian church in central Pennsylvania is urging caution in the wake of a federal court ruling striking down a Trump administration order to end immigration protections for many of his congregants. Pastor Roussel Costume of First Haitian Christian Assembly in Enola welcomed the decision from a federal judge on Tuesday reinstating Temporary Protection Status to more than 350,000 Haitian immigrants, including potentially several thousand in the Harrisburg area. I cannot fully express how overjoyed and relieved I am by the federal judges ruling, he said in an email to PennLive. This decision brings a powerful wave of hope and stability to our Haitian community a community that has been living under a dark cloud of uncertainty and fear for far too long. However, Costume cautioned that the order from U.S. District Judge Brian M. Cogan ruling on the side of Haitian plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the Trump administration falls short of providing broader protections from deportation. (T)his decision also raises pressing questions about what will happen after February 2026, Costume said. As much as we rejoice today, many in our community remain deeply concerned about the future. There is widespread doubt about whether the current or future administrations will stand with immigrant communities especially the Haitian population, which has endured crisis after crisis with very little national support. Haitians nationwide have been generally living in fear amid a hostile anti-Haitian immigrant rhetoric from President Donald Trump, including his baseless claims as a presidential candidate that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio were capturing and eating peoples pets. Trumps allegations against Haitians, including that they were destroying communities such as Charleroi in Pennslvania, have all been proven baseless. Still his administration has targeted Haitian immigrants, ordering an early termination to the TPS protections that were extended to them under the Obama administration. On Tuesday, Cogan ordered the Trump administration to fully reinstate TPS for Haitian nationals through Feb. 3, 2026, the original timeframe on the immigration protection. The order from the Department of Homeland Security had put in jeopardy the legal immigrant status of hundreds of thousands of Haitian immigrants who fled their homes after the devastating 2019 earthquake and subsequent violence. The judge on Tuesday found that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her authority when she designated the TPS extension to end early. For months, anxiety has been running rampant, Costume said. Families were preparing for the worst. Many of our brothers and sisters had already been sent home from work, while others made the heartbreaking choice to leave the area altogether, seeking peace of mind elsewhere. This ruling lifts a heavy burden. It allows us to breathe again at least for now. Costumes congregation is among the thriving communities of Haitian immigrants that have settled across Pennsylvania in recent years, including in Harrisburg and Reading. Cogan, who was appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, did not issue a nationwide injunction in the Haitian immigrants TPS suit, but ruled on a summary judgment motion that challenged the Homeland Security secretarys power to shorten their protective termination date as a matter of law. The termination date reverts to February 2026, although the Trump administration is likely to appeal. So while today is a victory and a blessing, it is also a call to remain vigilant, organized, and prayerful, Costume said. We will continue to advocate for dignity, justice, and permanent solutions for all immigrant families. We are not just statistics or headlines we are essential members of this nations fabric. A federal judge has struck down an order from the Trump administration seeking to terminate immigration protection for Haitian immigrants nationwide. For some immigrants, like those in the town of Charleroi, Pa. pictured here, the order may have come too late. (Photo by Rebecca Kiger for The Washington Post via Getty Images) Rebecca Kiger for The Washington Post via Getty Images For Rhute Dumersier news that a federal judge had offered a measure of security for Haitian immigrants like herself filled her with a sense of relief. On Tuesday, thousands of Haitian immigrants in central Pennsylvania like Dumersier along with an estimated 350,000 others nationwide learned that they would retain legal immigration protection after a federal court judge struck down an order by the Trump administration seeking an early end to those protections. U.S. District Judge Brian M. Cogan ruled in favor of Haitian immigrants who had challenged the administrations order seeking an early end to Temporary Protected Status, an immigration designation that had been extended to immigrants from the Caribbean island. Im really happy, said Dumersier, a Haitian immigrant who arrived in Harrisburg last year and has been working with other immigrants through the immigrant resettlement organization, the International Service Center. Its a big relief for me and for my community. Weve been waiting and praying for this. Dumersier a few weeks ago explained to PennLive how her fellow Haitian immigrants were fearful of being deported. Some of them had received letters from ICE saying the program was canceled and they had to go back to Haiti. Some, she said, were afraid to venture out of their homes. Rhute Dumersier, a Haitian immigrant, said the federal judge order striking down the Trump administration early termination of TPS for Haitians brings a measure of relief. Dumersier, who arrived in Harrisburg in 2024 and has been working with other immigrants at the International Service Center, said most Haitian immigrants have been fearful for their safety amid the anti-immigrant rhetoric set by the Trump administration. Submitted to PennLive Tuesdays federal court order changed that. Now we feel more calm and hopeful, Dumersier said. Cogan ordered the Trump administration to fully reinstate TPS for Haitian nationals through Feb. 3, 2026, the original timeframe on the immigration protection. The Department of Homeland Security had earlier this year attempted to end protections ahead of schedule, putting in jeopardy the legal immigrant status of hundreds of thousands of Haitian immigrants who fled their homes after the devastating 2019 earthquake and subsequent violence. The original protection order was issued by President Barack Obama for nearly half a million Haitians. The Trump order followed a sustained effort by the president to disparage Haitian immigrants targeting the Haitian community in Charleroi, in western Pennsylvania, and his infamous claims that Haitians in Springfield, Ohio, were eating peoples pets. Those charges were widely debunked, but the damage was done in the communities. The judge Tuesday found that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her authority when she designated the TPS extension to end early. Secretary Noems [decision] was in excess of her authority and was thus unlawful, Cogan wrote in his ruling. He said he was granting partial summary judgment to the Haitian plaintiffs because they are likely to prevail on the merits in their lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. Plaintiffs have also shown they will suffer irreparable injury without postponement of the Trump order, the judge noted. Haitians have settled in Harrisburg and Reading, holding down jobs and establishing businesses and churches, among other community centers. For some Haitian immigrants, the federal court ruling may have come too late. Most of the Haitians that I know, most of the people on TPS that I know, have already been told that theyre being let go by their employer because they were going to be illegal on August 3rd, said the Rev. Randy Ord, whose First United Methodist Church in Charleroi became a symbol of tolerance and humanitarian works as it rolled out a half dozen ministries designed to serve the growing Haitian community in this aging mill town of about 4,200 in Washington County. So unless these companies call these people back and say youre welcome to stay and be employed, I think the bit of damage is already done. Ords church in recent months has seen the exodus of its Haitian families, many, fearing deportation, choosing to leave, some for Canada or other overseas destination. Ord has seen his town once a destination for Haitian immigrants who helped infuse new life to a rusting town shut down as the newcomers fled. The Rev. Randy Ord of First United Methodist Church in Charleroi, Pa., thinks the court ruling may be too late for some Haitian immigrants. Ord's church has opened its doors to a wave of Haitian immigrants, many of whom, left in the wake of anti-immigrant rhetoric. Submitted If they dont have jobs, they cant support themselves, he said. And thats been the irony in this whole thing. A lot of the community has been anti immigrants...saying theyre on welfare, theyre getting all free insurance and Medicare and food stamps. And the reality of it was they werent. Ord said he has learned from experience that news travels slowly across the Haitian community, so it might take weeks before everyone learns of the court ruling. I think its wonderful news and Im happy for it, but I am concerned that, okay, is Amazon going to call the people back to work, tell them that they dont have to be done?, he said. Is Bakery Barn gonna call the people back that they said they were gonna let go and say, never mind, were not gonna let you go. Cogan, who was appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, did not issue a nationwide injunction in the Haitian immigrants TPS suit, The Miami Herald reported. Instead, he ruled on a summary judgment motion that challenged the Homeland Security secretarys power to shorten their protective termination date as a matter of law. The Trump administration is likely to appeal. My heart breaks when I look at the way we have treated these people, Ord said. We invited them. We created these laws. We said fill out the paperwork, come in to our country. We will help you get your life together. We invite them. They come and before the expiration date the current administration says it doesnt matter to me your TPS is going to expire right now. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks to the media, Friday, June 27, 2025, in the briefing room of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP The federal prosecutor named Tuesday to replace interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba has been removed from the position hours after she was chosen, according to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. Desiree Leigh Grace, who served as Habbas top deputy, was set to replace Habba after a panel of judges in the U.S. District Court for New Jersey declined to permanently appoint Habba, President Donald Trumps former lawyer, as the states top federal prosecutor, according to a court order. (Habba) has been doing a great job in making NJ safe again, Bondi, the top law enforcement official in Trumps adminsitration, wrote on X. Nonetheless, politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position, replacing Alina with the First Assistant. Accordingly, the First Assistant United States Attorney in New Jersey has just been removed, Bondi continued. This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges especially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers." Bondi did not say who would replace Grace. Calls to the justice departments in Washington and New Jersey seeking clarification and comment were not immediately returned. Despite Bondis announcement Tuesday evening, at least one legal expert says the move may have little bearing on who will lead the U.S. Attorneys Office in New Jersey in the coming days. Todays announcement from the Attorney General doesnt change the fact that, by statute, Grace will be the U.S. Attorney once Habbas 120-day term expires, said Professor Jacob T. Elberg of Seton Hall University School of Law. The district courts statutory authority to appoint the U.S. Attorney after an interim U.S. Attorneys limited term expires is not dependent on the courts appointee being a current Department of Justice employee, Elberg added. So Bondis firing of the appointee from her current position as First Assistant has no effect on the courts appointment of Grace starting later this week when Habbas term expires, he said. Grace has been with the U.S. Attorneys Office since 2016 and most recently led its criminal division. Earlier this year, she was promoted to first assistant under Habba during her interim tenure. Alina Habba speaks after being sworn in as interim US Attorney General for New Jersey, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, on March 28, 2025. (Pool File via AP) AP In a standing order issued Tuesday, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey formally appointed Grace as U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. The appointment takes effect July 22, 2025, or after the expiration of 120 days following Habbas interim appointment whichever comes later. The order was signed by Chief Judge Renee Marie Bumb in Camden. However, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche accused New Jerseys federal judges of pursuing a partisan agenda by moving to replace acting Habba before her term officially ends, calling the decision an attack on the rule of law. The district court judges in NJ are trying to force out (Habba) before her term expires at 11:59 p.m. Friday, Blanche wrote in an X post Tuesday. Their rush reveals what this was always about: a left-wing agenda, not the rule of law. When judges act like activists, they undermine confidence in our justice system. Alina is President Trumps choice to leadand no partisan bench can override that. Habba, who served just 120 days in the role after being appointed to the interim position in March, has faced strong opposition from New Jerseys Democratic U.S. senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim. They have criticized her for what they call politically motivated prosecutions and a misuse of the office. The pair also condemned Bondis actions Tuesday night. Trumps Department of Justice is once again criticizing a court that acted within its authority, continuing a pattern of publicly undermining judicial decisions and showing disregard for the rule of law and the separation of powers, Booker and Kim said in a joint statement. The firing of a career public servant, lawfully appointed by the court, is another blatant attempt to intimidate anyone that doesnt agree with them and undermine judicial independence. In a joint statement earlier this month, the senators said Habba does not meet the standard to serve the people of New Jersey. They pointed to her involvement in controversial arrests, a lawsuit filed by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and her creation of an Election Integrity Task Force, which civil rights groups have criticized as a threat to democracy. Senate Republicans ended the blue slip tradition for circuit court nominees allowing Trumps pick Emil Bove to advance to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals despite Kims objections. However, theyve kept the practice in place for U.S. attorneys and district court judges. That distinction has proven critical: Bove moved forward despite lacking home-state support, but Habbas nomination had been stalled with no path forward in the Senate. Under federal law, once an interim U.S. attorneys 120-day term expires, the judges in that district have the authority to appoint someone to the position until a nominee is confirmed by the Senate. NJ Advance Media staff writer Brent Johnson contributed to this report. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Colleen Murphy may be reached at cmurphy@njadvancemedia.com. By STEPHEN GROVES and LISA MASCARO, The Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) House Speaker Mike Johnson is rebuffing pressure to act on the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, instead sending members home early for a month-long break from Washington after the weeks legislative agenda was upended by Republican members who are clamoring for a vote. Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, said Tuesday morning that he wants to give the White House space to release the Epstein information on its own, despite the bipartisan push for legislation that aims to force the release of more documents. Theres no purpose for the Congress to push an administration to do something theyre already doing, Johnson said at his weekly news conference, his last before lawmakers depart Washington on Wednesday for their traditional August recess. The speakers stance did little to alleviate the intra-party turmoil unfolding on Capitol Hill as many of President Donald Trumps supporters demand that the administration meet its promises to publicly release a full accounting of the sex trafficking investigation into Epstein, who killed himself in his New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. Under pressure from right-wing online influencers, as well as voters back home, rank-and-file Republicans are demanding that the House intervene in the matter. The publics not going to let this die, and rightfully so, said Rep. Ralph Norman, a South Carolina Republican. Will Ghislaine Maxwells deposition happen? Even before Johnson spoke Tuesday morning, the powerful House Committee on Oversight was advancing a resolution to subpoena Epsteins former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, for a deposition. Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in 2005 in New York City. (Photo by Joe Schildhorn/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images, file) Patrick McMullan via Getty Image The Republican chair of the committee, Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, said there will be a negotiation with Maxwells attorney over the terms of the deposition and that it could happen at the prison where she is serving a lengthy sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls. The Justice Department also indicated Tuesday it was separately seeking to interview Maxwell. While Democrats on the House Oversight Committee supported the action, the top Democrat on the committee, Rep. Robert Garcia of California, warned that her testimony should be treated with skepticism. We should be looking and continue to push for a full release of the files, Garcia told reporters. I think its important for people to know that she obviously is a documented liar and someone that has caused enormous harm to young girls and women. Trump didnt address the issue during a reception for House Republicans at the White House on Tuesday night but heaped praise on Johnson, saying he would go down as one of the great speakers at any time in history. In remarks alongside Trump, Johnson made no mention of it either. Johnsons control of the House is under threat Johnson decided to end the Houses legislative business early this week after he essentially lost control of the powerful House Rules Committee, which sends bills to the floor for debates and votes. Late Monday evening, business on that panel ground to a halt when the Republicans on the committee abruptly recessed proceedings rather than risk more proposals from Democrats pushing them to release Epstein files. Republicans had teed up votes on legislation to increase penalties for migrants who enter the country illegally, to ease permitting for water infrastructure and to roll back several Biden-era regulations. All those bills were put on hold, at least until after the August recess. Frustration in the House has been running high since last week, when Republican leaders signaled possible support for a vote on the Epstein files as they raced to pass a $9 billion package of spending cuts. Johnson unveiled a resolution that has no legal weight but would urge the Justice Department to produce more documentation. Trump, meanwhile, has asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of testimony from secret grand jury proceedings in the case, though that effort is unlikely to produce new revelations. Echoing Trumps position, Johnson insisted he, too, wants the files released, but only those that are credible. Johnson, who has relied heavily on Trump to hold onto leadership in the House, cast the presidents reticence to release information as out of concern for the victims of Epstein. We have a moral responsibility to expose the evil of Epstein and everybody who was involved in that absolutely and were resolved to do it, Johnson said. But we also have an equal moral responsibility to protect the innocent, and that is a fine needle to thread. In the Senate, Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., also told reporters he believed Trump and Bondi would make the right decisions on the files, but opened the door to committees examining the matter. Epstein has become a political wedge among GOP Even with the month-long break, the pressure on Johnson is unlikely to end. Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican whose contrarian stances are often a thorn in the side of leadership, is gathering support for a legislative maneuver to force the bipartisan bill to a House vote, even without leaderships consent. Now, there are a lot of people here in the swamp who think that, Oh, well, if we spend five weeks on vacation, the pressure for this will dissipate. I dont think its going to dissipate. Massie told reporters Monday evening. Democrats have watched it all unfold with glee and worked to inflame the conflict among Republicans by making their own calls for transparency on the Epstein investigation. They have repeatedly tried to force votes on the matter, casting it as an issue of trust in the government. Its about transparency in government. Its about whose side are you on? Are you on the side of the rich and powerful, protecting men? Or are you on the side of young girls and Americas children? said Rep. Ro Khanna, the California Democrat who put forward the legislation alongside Massie. Epstein sexually abused children hundreds of times over more than a decade, exploiting vulnerable girls as young as 14, authorities say. He couldnt have done so without the help of Maxwell, his longtime companion, prosecutors contend. Massie said the case is palpable enough to carry significant political consequences. This will be an issue that does follow Republicans through the midterms, and it will follow each individual Republican through the midterms. It will follow people into their primaries. Did you support transparency and justice, or did you come up here, get elected and fall into the swamp? he told reporters. He added, I think it is a watershed moment for the speaker of the House and the president. Central Pennsylvania is bracing for a significant heat wave, with temperatures and humidity levels expected to create dangerous heat conditions, particularly on Friday. The National Weather Service has indicated a potential heat advisory may be issued, with heat index values forecast to reach or exceed 100 degrees in central and eastern valleys. The heat wave will build gradually, with temperatures climbing through Thursday and peaking on Friday. Wednesday will see temperatures rising into the low to mid-80s, with humidity increasing and dewpoints reaching 60-65 degrees. By Thursday, temperatures will climb into the mid-80s to low 90s, with heat index values approaching the mid- to upper 90s in central valleys. Friday is expected to be the most intense day, with a Heat Risk level of 3 out of 4 (major) across most of central Pennsylvania. The heat will be most severe along and southeast of the I-99/US-220 corridor, where heat index values are likely to exceed 100 degrees. Residents are advised to take precautions such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure, and checking on vulnerable populations like elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning. The weekend will bring some relief, with temperatures remaining hot but potentially slightly cooler. Theres a possibility of scattered thunderstorms Friday through the weekend, which could provide temporary relief from the heat. The overall weather pattern suggests continued unsettled and hot conditions, with a potential transition to more cyclonic flow and slightly cooler temperatures by months end. The long-term forecast indicates the heat wave may persist into early next week, with continued chances of thunderstorms and high temperatures. Residents should continue to monitor local weather updates and be prepared for potentially dangerous heat conditions. Current weather radar Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by PennLive.com staff. Aiken Standard reporter Dede Biles is a reporter for the Aiken Standard. She covers Aiken County government, business and horse industry. To support local journalism, sign up for a subscription. See our current offers Anna Sharpe covers Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island and Folly Beach for the Post and Courier. She graduated from Winthrop University. She previously wrote for the Moultrie News in Mount Pleasant. You are the owner of this article. Lu Thomas, employee at Williamsburg County Animal Care and Control, comforts a whimpering puppy while she works by putting it in a makeshift baby sling. Quick Response and Courts Reporter Alan Hovorka is a breaking news and courts reporter for The Post & Courier. After graduating from Ball State University in Indiana, he spent five years covering government and education in central Wisconsin before coming to the Lowcountry. Abby Ann Ramsey covered Florence and the Pee Dee for The Post and Courier. She graduated from the University of Tennessee in her hometown of Knoxville before moving to South Carolina. Spartanburg, SC (29301) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 59F. Winds light and variable. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 09:05:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 725 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 /BioNxt Solutions Inc. ("BioNxt" or the "Company") (CSE:BNXT)(OTC PINK:BNXTF)(FSE:BXT), a bioscience innovator specializing in advanced drug delivery systems, is pleased to announce the successful formulation of a sublingual thin-film prototype for its lead clinical stage candidate, BNT23001, using the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) cladribine. This proprietary thin-film formulation is being developed for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).The cladribine API was used by BioNxt's European drug development partner, Gen-Plus GmbH & Co. KG, based in Munich, Germany, to develop and produce prototype oral dissolvable films (ODFs). These initial formulations demonstrated promising characteristics in terms of drug loading, film uniformity, and disintegration time, confirming the suitability of cladribine for thin-film drug delivery.This formulation milestone strengthens the foundation for clinical batch manufacturing and further optimization, which are ongoing as part of BioNxt's strategy to initiate a human bioequivalence study in the second half of 2025.Strategic Milestone in BioNxt's Cladribine Development PathBNT23001 is designed to offer a patient-centric alternative to conventional oral cladribine tablets, such as Mavenclad, by delivering the drug through a rapidly dissolving sublingual film. This approach aims to improve treatment adherence, particularly for MS patients who experience dysphagia, a common symptom that affects the ability to swallow.BioNxt's proprietary thin-film platform enables precise and rapid drug absorption via the oral mucosa, offering potential advantages in bioavailability, convenience, and patient experience over traditional oral or injectable formats.In parallel with formulation progress, BioNxt continues to advance its intellectual property strategy. The company believes that continued validation of the product and further experimental data will support additional IP filings, with patent protection representing a key upcoming milestone for BNT23001. BioNxt has already initiated patent nationalization processes in Europe, the United States, and Canada."The successful formulation of the first cladribine-containing thin-film prototype marks a major step forward in the clinical development of BNT23001," said Hugh Rogers, CEO of BioNxt Solutions. "It also underscores the strength of our drug delivery platform as we move toward human trials and eventual commercial readiness." BioNxt expects to continue formulation optimization and begin in vitro performance testing, with preclinical evaluation to follow as the Company advances toward regulatory readiness and potential out-licensing opportunities.About BioNxt Solutions Inc.BioNxt Solutions Inc. is a bioscience innovator focused on next-generation drug delivery technologies, diagnostic screening systems, and active pharmaceutical ingredient development. The Company's proprietary platforms-Sublingual (Thin-Film), Transdermal (Skin Patch), and Oral (Enteric-Coated Tablets)-target key therapeutic areas, including autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and longevity.With research and development operations in North America and Europe, BioNxt is advancing regulatory approvals and commercialization eorts, primarily focused on European markets. BioNxt is committed to improving healthcare by delivering precise, patient-centric solutions that enhance treatment outcomes worldwide.BioNxt is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange: BNXT, OTC Markets: BNXTF and trades in Germany under WKN: A3D1K3.To learn more about BioNxt, please visit www.bionxt.com Investor Relations & Media ContactHugh Rogers, Co-Founder, CEO and DirectorEmail: investor.relations@bionxt.com Phone: +1 778.598.2698Web: www.bionxt.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bionxt-solutions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bionxt Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" InformationThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the development, testing, regulatory approval, and commercialization of BioNxt's sublingual drug products, as well as projected milestones, anticipated partnerships, and potential market opportunities. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to significant risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, many of which are beyond BioNxt's control. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, delays in regulatory approvals, negative outcomes from clinical trials, changes in market demand, fluctuations in funding availability, or disruptions in supply chains. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. BioNxt undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected include changes in market demand, regulatory developments, delays in clinical trials, fluctuations in financing availability, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen competitive pressures.Mavenclad is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by BioNxt Solutions Inc.SOURCE: BioNxt Solutions Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 22:25:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 567 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 /Black Voyage, the trailblazing brand redefining modern luggage, announces the debut of its firstofitskind 28" AirTrunk Suitcase featuring proprietary Vortex VacuumSeal Compression Technology. Crafted from aerospacegrade materials for elite travelers, this suitcase doesn't just carry your gear-it transforms the way you move through the world.At its core, Vortex VacuumSeal Compression Technology lets travelers pack up to 57 % more without expanding the exterior footprint. A magnetic compression panel locks contents in place, creating extra room for delicate, noncompressible items-so your hat, blazer, or gifts ride safely on every trip."Travelers are tired of bulky, inefficient suitcases that waste space and money," said [Benjamin Ingebritson], Vice President & GM (North America) of Black Voyage. "The AirTrunk is engineered for today's journeys-spacesaving, durable, smart, and whisper quiet." Solves RealWorld Packing FrustrationsMost checkin suitcases run out of room the moment you add "can'tcrush" items-think hats, blazers, or souvenirs. Vortex VacuumSeal Compression Technology collapses soft contents by up to 57 %, instantly freeing space for those fragile essentials without adding bulk.Upgraded to business class? Airlines often boost your weight allowance to 32 kg, yet nearly all checked bags are built for the 23 kg limits of economy flyers. With Vortex power, you can load the full 32 kg into a standardsize case-no oversized shell, no extra bag fees, just sleek, compact powerpacking.Why Vortex Compression Outperforms Every Other VacuumSeal SystemWorldClass IPX8 Rating - IPX8 certification means every Vortex zipper and seal is tested to withstand continuous immersion beyond 1 meter for 30 minutes, ensuring airtight integrity under extreme pressure and temperature changes.36Hour Compression Hold - Our patentpending design maintains vacuum pressure for up to 36 hours, keeping your suitcase perfectly compressed through longhaul flights and multileg connections. Lesser bags lose pressure midjourney-sometimes "popping" as cheap aircompression zippers fail. Vortex stays locked, silent, and secure.StandOut FeaturesVortex VacuumSeal System - Compress belongings in seconds; no external pump required.BAYER Polycarbonate Shell + AircraftGrade Aluminum Corners - Lightweight strength built to withstand years of rough handling.Hinomoto Silent Wheels with TransitLock Brake - Glide effortlessly, then lock wheels in place on slopes or crowded trains.PunctureResistant YKK Zippers - Up to 3 stronger than standard zippers; no snags, no failures.EcoFriendly re/cor RecycledNylon Interior - Premium, sustainable lining with a sleek finish.Integrated Smart SuiteUSBC charging portTSAapproved combination lockDiscreet AirTag SmartTracker pocketMultiheight telescoping handleUniversal Strappability-securely stacks your backpack or tote on topWhether rushing through JFK or rolling down cobblestones in Lisbon, the 28" AirTrunk delivers seamless mobility and intuitive organization. A Globally Approved CarryOn version is also available for light packers and frequent flyers.Availability The AirTrunk Collection is available now, exclusively at blackvoyage.com.Product page: https://blackvoyage.com/products/airtrunk-150l-vortex-vacuum-seal-carry-on-suitcase About Black VoyageBlack Voyage engineers stateoftheart luggage that fuses patented compression technology, sustainable materials, and elite craftsmanship. Trusted by frequent flyers, digital nomads, and design aficionados worldwide, Black Voyage marries innovation, performance, and timeless aesthetics for the modern traveler.Media ContactOrganization: Black VoyageContact Person Name: Benjamin IngebritsonWebsite: https://www.blackvoyage.com Email: press@ blackvoyage.com City: New York CityState: NYCountry: United StatesSOURCE: Black Voyage PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 13:36:35 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 477 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces an investigation into BellRing Brands, Inc. (NYSE:BRBR) for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in BellRing, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/bellring-brands-inc-class-action-lawsuit Why is BellRing being Investigated?BellRing operates in the convenient nutrition category. The Company's primary brands include Premier Protein and Dymatize, which offer ready-to-drink protein shakes and powders. During the relevant period, the Company stated that Premier Protein "hit an all-time high in household penetration" and that "demand remains strong." The Company also stated that its growth was "strong in all channels," driven by "distribution expansion, accelerating velocities and incremental promotional activity." In truth, the Company's sales growth during the relevant period may have been driven by temporary trade inventory loading at several key retailers, not sustainable end-consumer demand.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn May 5, 2025, after market hours, BellRing revealed that starting in Q2 2023, "several key retailers lowered their weeks of supply on hand," which would create a headwind to Q3 2025 growth. The Company also announced it was expanding promotions to boost sales and "offset [] third quarter reductions in retailer trade inventory levels." On this news, the price of BellRing stock fell $13.96 per share, or more than 18%, from $77.34 per share on May 5, 2025, to $63.38 per share on May 6, 2025.Click here for more information: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/bellring-brands-inc-class-action-lawsuit What Can You Do?If you invested in BellRing you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?BFA is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It has been named a top plaintiff law firm by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and ISS SCAS, and its attorneys have been named "Elite Trial Lawyers" by the National Law Journal, among the top "500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers" by Lawdragon, "Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar" by Law360 and "SuperLawyers" by Thomson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar, Fonti, & Auld LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 13:37:27 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 602 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a lawsuit has been filed against Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Hims & Hers, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/hims-hers-health-inc-class-action Investors have until August 25, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Hims & Hers securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Sookdeo v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-05315. A subsequent complaint alleging substantially similar claims was also filed and is captioned Yaghsizian v. Hims & Hers Health, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-05321.Why was Hims & Hers Sued for Securities Fraud?Hims & Hers operates a telehealth platform that provides consumers with access to online consultations with licensed healthcare professionals, prescription medications, and a range of wellness products. On April 29, 2025, Hims & Hers and Novo Nordisk announced a "long-term collaboration" starting with the immediate sale of Novo Nordisk's popular weight loss drug Wegovy on the Hims & Hers platform. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide.As alleged, Hims & Hers touted and misrepresented to investors the nature of its partnership with Novo Nordisk, including asserting that under the terms of the agreement His & Hers could offer both Wegovy and compounded semaglutide to its customers. Hims & Hers also allegedly represented to investors that its sale of compounded semaglutide complied with FDA regulations.The Stock Declines as the Truth is RevealedOn June 23, 2025, Novo Nordisk announced that it was terminating the partnership, "based on Hims & Hers deceptive promotion and selling of illegitimate, knockoff versions of Wegovy that put patient safety at risk" and alleged that Hims & Hers "failed to adhere to the law which prohibits mass sales of compounded drugs." On this news, the price of Hims & Hers stock fell $22.24 per share, or more than 34%, from $64.22 per share on June 20, 2025 to $41.98 per share on June 23, 2025.Click here for more information: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/hims-hers-health-inc-class-action What Can You Do?If you invested in Hims & Hers you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?BFA is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It has been named a top plaintiff law firm by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and ISS SCAS, and its attorneys have been named "Elite Trial Lawyers" by the National Law Journal, among the top "500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers" by Lawdragon, "Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar" by Law360 and "SuperLawyers" by Thomson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar, Fonti, & Auld LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 18:45:33 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 417 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC d/b/a All Star Healthcare Solutions ("All Star") recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to All Star.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On February 25, 2025, All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC became aware of a security incident involving unauthorized activity within its internal systems. Upon detection, All Star secured its systems and launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cybersecurity experts to assess the nature and scope of the breach. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to data stored on its network. The impacted data may include full names, contact information, and account informationOn July 15, 2025, All Star filed a breach notice with the Maine Attorney General and began sending out notice letters to affected individuals. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from All Star Recruiting Locums, LLC d/b/a All Star Healthcare Solutions, you are likely to be affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 18:30:08 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 361 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Claris Vision recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Claris Vision.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?On January 1, 2025, Claris Vision detected unusual activity on its internal network. An investigation was conducted with the help of third-party cybersecurity experts. The investigation confirmed that an unauthorized third party may have gained access to names, Social Security numbers, addresses, financial account information, and medical record information.On July 3, 2025, Claris Vision began sending notification letters to those impacted and reported the incident to the appropriate government authorities. Compensation may be available for those individuals who receive notice that their sensitive personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter or email from Claris Vision, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis-you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 19:01:02 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 382 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Moviynt recently disclosed that it suffered a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal data of individuals. This data breach has led to concerns over the security of sensitive personal information entrusted to Moviynt.WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?Recently, Moviynt became aware of a security incident on its internal employee email system. Upon detection, Moviynt launched an investigation with the assistance of third-party cyber security experts to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation determined that an unauthorized third party gained access to employee email accounts and files between February 27, 2025, and March 6, 2025. The impacted files may contain personal information of individuals, including names and Social Security numbers.On July 8, 2025, Moviynt began sending notice letters to impacted individuals and filed a notice with the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office. Compensation may be available for those individuals who received notice that their personal information was compromised.WHY YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION?Data breaches are serious matters that can cause long-term damage. Hackers may use stolen information to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other crimes. Companies that fail to secure your personal data may be held liable for the resulting harm.HOW DO I KNOW IF I WAS AFFECTED?If you received a data breach notification letter from Moviynt, you are likely affected. Follow the link below to find out if you may be eligible for compensation.Levi Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are entitled to compensation. There is no cost or obligation to participate. Follow the link below to find out:Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is a nationally recognized consumer advocacy law firm that has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars against large corporations. The firm's team of over 70 extraordinary attorneys and professionals have a winning track record going against the most powerful defense attorneys in the world and know how to maximize your compensation. Our firm works on a 100% contingency fee basis - you pay nothing unless we win your case! Visit our website to learn more. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-24 00:15:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 305 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of Encompass Health Corporation ("Encompass Health Corporation") (NYSE:EHC) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.On July 15, 2025, the New York Times published an article, entitled "Even Grave Errors at Rehab Hospitals Go Unpenalized and Undisclosed," discussing the state of the private rehabilitation hospital industry. In the article, the Times specifically identified Encompass as one of the for-profit rehab corporations that "have had rare but serious incident of patient harm and perform below average on two key safety measure tracked by Medicare." The article went on to note specific examples highlighting significant patient safety concerns, medication errors, and an overall lack of oversight at Encompass' hospitals.Following this news, Encompass' stock price fell by $12.39 per share to close at $ 107.28 per share. To obtain additional information, go to:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212)363-7500.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212)363-7500 Fax: (212)363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 08:20:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 949 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TRIQ I-IMSIDA IL-GZIRA, MT / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / Raketech (STO:RAKE) - Quote from Johan Svensson, CEO "Focus remains on delivering on AffiliationCloud and our platform-first strategy, anchored in Affiliation and SubAffiliation. We will continue to explore new entrepreneurial partnerships in key markets and additional assets. By deepening our exclusive commercial operator agreements, diversifying beyond traditional SEO channels, and expanding our publisher network, we are well-positioned to drive efficiency, reach, and long-term value." Q2 2025 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTSRaketech recorded revenues of EUR 7.8 million in Q2 2025 (EUR 17.0 million in Q2 2024, which included EUR 0.8 million from the divested advisory business). Revenues were primarily affected by continuing challenges in the Paid Publisher Network (SubAffiliation). Our core Affiliation Marketing portfolio, excluding the Casumba assets, showed positive momentum, delivering a 5% revenue increase quarter-over-quarter.Adjusted EBITDA amounted to EUR 2.1 million, while reported EBITDA was EUR 2.0 million. During the quarter, we divested our non-core US tipster and subscription assets, with the transaction closing at the end of June. These assets, along with the related US operations, had a negative EBITDA impact of EUR 0.5 million in Q2. Adjusted EBITDA excluding US tipster assets was EUR 2.6 million in the quarter.Free cash flow before earnouts totalled EUR 1.8 million in Q2 2025, largely in line with EBITDA.OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTSWe achieved cost savings of 35% in Q2 2025 (excluding publisher costs) compared to Q1 of last year, which marked the initiation of a review of our operating model.We successfully divested our non-core US Tipster and Subscription assets, which is expected to result in improved profitability going forward, with additional monthly cost savings of approximately EUR 150k.SUBSEQUENT EVENTS AFTER THE END OF THE PERIODPreliminary data on July 2025 revenues for our Affiliation Marketing assets indicate performance in line with typical seasonal trends as expected, reflecting a somewhat softer activity during the early summer period and the absence of major sport events. Activity is anticipated to pick up toward the end of summer. The lower margin Paid Network (SubAffiliation) continues to face headwinds, consistent with Q2 and previous quarters while the organic Network is performing as expected.CEO COMMENTIn Q2, we continued to make progress on both our platform-first strategy and efforts to streamline our organization.While revenues declined year-on-year, this was primarily driven by two specific areas: the Casumba assets and the Paid Publisher segment within SubAffiliation, which together accounted for a vast majority of the drop combined with the divested US Advisory business. Overall market conditions for Casumba continued to be challenging during the quarter, and recent structural changes in Google's advertising ecosystem, as highlighted in Q1, have further increased the difficulty of scaling paid traffic across the industry.Our core strategy however is delivering results, driven by our entrepreneurial partnership model, Affiliation Marketing, excluding Casumba, grew 5% quarter-over-quarter. SubAffiliation, excluding Paid, remained stable, with growing momentum in exclusive commercial operator agreements and a promising pipeline of revenue-generating Organic Publishers.Furthermore, we successfully divested our non-core US Tipster and Subscription assets, which is expected to result in improved profitability going forward.Financial Overview Raketech recorded revenues of EUR 7.8 million in Q2 2025 (EUR 17.0 million in Q2 2024, which included EUR 0.8 million from the divested advisory business). EBITDA amounted to EUR 2.0 million (EUR 4.4 million), while Adjusted EBITDA amounted to EUR 2.1 million (EUR 4.4 million), including a EUR 0.5 million operational loss in our divested US Tipster assets. Adjusted EBITDA excluding US tipster assets was EUR 2.6 million in the quarter.Business Area UpdatesAffiliation Marketing During the second quarter of 2025, our core Affiliation Marketing portfolio, excluding the underperforming Casumba assets, demonstrated continued strength, delivering 5% revenue growth quarter-over-quarter.A key driver of this performance is our entrepreneurial partnership model, which now accounts for approximately 63% of revenues in this business area. The model allows Raketech to retain full ownership of assets while leveraging its centralized strengths in commercial agreements, finance, reporting, data, and technology. Our partners contribute deep domain expertise in areas such as SEO, content, and product development, creating a highly scalable and operationally efficient structure.As part of our ongoing efforts to diversify our sources of revenue beyond SEO, we have signed a new commercial agreement with a large Nordic TV and streaming operator to provide them with valuable traffic from our TV sport guides. This strengthens our position within the Affiliation Marketing business area and broadens our distribution network.Casumba performance was impacted by worsened market conditions. These headwinds have affected the entire affiliate industry. As previously announced, we extended the earn-out agreement and continue working closely with the founders on operational improvements. Affiliation Marketing remains a core component of our platform, and the quarter's results highlight the strength and consistency of our partnership-driven model.SubAffiliation - Organic Publisher Network and Paid Publisher Network Our Organic Network performed in line with the previous quarter, supported by our broad and robust pipeline of publishers. The number of revenue-generating publishers is in line with the previous quarter.We have strengthened our exclusive commercial operator agreements in the US, one of our target markets and a key focus of our SubAffiliation offering. The US business grew strongly during the quarter, reflecting our strategic emphasis on exclusive, high-quality partnerships in key markets.In contrast, the Paid Publisher Network experienced a quarter-over-quarter decline, primarily due to structural changes in Google's ad ecosystem. This is a broad industry challenge, and we are reviewing the role of Paid within our model.In response, we have continued to focus on organic network publishers and exclusive commercial operator agreements, supporting both operators and publishers who want to consolidate their commercial operations through Raketech.US Tipster & Subscription The divestment of our US tipster assets was a key strategic milestone this quarter, allowing us to further sharpen our focus on our core skills. The transaction delivered PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 00:40:18 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 607 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 22, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., July 22, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Centene Corporation (NYSE:CNC) between December 12, 2024 and June 30, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 8, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased Centene common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Centene class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41552or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 8, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period provided investors with material information concerning Centene's expected revenue guidance and adjusted diluted earnings per share ("EPS") for the 2025 fiscal year. Defendants' statements included, among other things, confidence in Centene's enrollment and morbidity rates, as well as strong retention rates in Centene's Medicare business. Defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while simultaneously disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Centene's enrollment and morbidity rates.To join the Centene class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41552 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 03:42:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 794 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 22, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., July 22, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the "Western Asset US Core Bond Fund" mutual fund classes - Class I (ticker: "WATFX"), Class A (ticker: "WABAX"), Class C (ticker: "WABCX"), Class FI (ticker: "WAPIX"), Class IS (ticker: "WACSX"), and Class R (ticker: "WABRX") - and the "Western Asset Core Plus Bond Fund" mutual fund classes - Class A (ticker: "WAPAX"), Class C (ticker: "WAPCX"), Class C1 (ticker: "LWCPX"), Class FI (ticker: "WACIX"), Class R (ticker: "WAPRX"), Class I (ticker: "WACPX"), Class IS (ticker: "WAPSX") between January 1, 2021 and October 31, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 5, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased WAMCO mutual funds during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 5, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants failed to warn investors that: (1) defendants favored certain WAMCO strategies, like Macro Opps, over other WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (2) defendants disfavored certain WAMCO strategies, like Core and Core Plus; (3) any "compliance policies and procedures" that WAMCO maintained "to result in fair allocations of investment opportunities to clients" were either insufficient to ensure that Leech and his WAMCO Team fairly allocated trades among the strategies they managed or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies; (3) any "oversight mechanisms" that WAMCO maintained were either insufficient to monitor Leech and his WAMCO Team or were expressly disregarded by defendants in order to allow the favoring of certain WAMCO strategies at the expense of other WAMCO strategies. As a result, defendants' actions operated as a fraud or deceit on the Class, artificially reducing the price of the "Western Asset US Core strategy" mutual fund classes during the Class Period, damaging Class members.To join the WAMCO class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31956 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. PR-Inside.com: 2025-07-23 20:00:36 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 653 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation Has Awarded 47 Villages of Fort Belvoir Residents With Academic ScholarshipsFORT BELVOIR, VA / ACCESS Newswire / July 23, 2025 / The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation , a non-profit affiliate ofThe Michaels Organization , recently celebrated the awarding of $437,500 in scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year to 47 residents living atThe Villages of Fort Belvoir , on-post housing owned and managed by Michaels. 2025 Fort Belvoir Michaels Scholars Michaels' 2025 Fort Belvoir Scholars pose with their awards alongside Colonel David J. Stewart, Fort Belvoir Garrison Commander and David Dentino, SES, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing and Partnerships"An education can change the world, and this scholarship is just the beginning of that journey," said David Dentino, SES, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing and Partnerships. "This is a phenomenal way for The Michaels Organization to give back to the community and to continue being more than just a housing provider." "Michaels is deeply committed to supporting our military families- not only by providing quality housing, but also by ensuring our residents have the resources they need to pursue their dreams," said John Zurlo, Senior VP of Investment Management for The Michaels Organization. "As the children of service members, these students have already made sacrifices for our country, and it is a privilege for us at Michaels to support their academic success." The Michaels Organization Educational Foundation provides grants to residents to use toward their pursuit of higher education at any accredited college, university, or vocational training program in the nation. Scholarships are awarded annually and students may reapply each year of their undergraduate education for continuing grants.All foundation funds are raised through voluntary contributions by corporations, companies, families, private trusts, and individuals throughout The Michaels Organization's business network. All donations are then matched $2 for every $1 by The Michaels Organization's Founder and Chairman, Michael J. Levitt, and his wife, Pat Levitt.Among this year's scholars awarded at Fort Belvoir is Alejandra Escobar, a rising senior at Texas A&M University studying mechanical engineering. With her degree, Alejandra hopes to make everyday life more environmentally friendly. Another scholar, David Speilman Jr., will be transferring to Georgetown University in the fall to continue his Computer Science degree. After graduation, David plans to serve as a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger, proudly continuing a family tradition of military service.Michaels has been a Department of Defense private-sector partner since 2004 and began offering scholarships for military residents in 2006. Since then, the Foundation has awarded over $6 million to Michaels' military residents - almost $2 million of which has been to Fort Belvoir residents.Fort Belvoir's scholarship awards are a part of the greater$2.4 millionawarded by the Foundation, which was announced in June as benefiting residents of Michaels' military and affordable communities. In total, the Foundation has awarded $19 million across programs for Michaels' affordable, military, and student housing communities within its portfolio.###About The Michaels OrganizationMichaelsis a national leader in residential real estate, offering full-service capabilities in development, property and asset management, construction, and investment. Serving more than 200,000 residents in more than 600 communities across 39 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Michaels is committed to crafting housing solutions that jumpstart education, civic engagement and neighborhood prosperity, and to creating Communities That Lift Lives.About The Michaels Organization Educational FoundationThe Michaels Educational Foundation is a non-profit affiliate of The Michaels Organization, established to administer scholarships to Michaels residents. The scholarship program was the first of its kind in the affordable housing industry when it was created and since its inception, the program has expanded to include residents of Michaels' military and student living communities and is monumental to The Michaels Organization's mission of Creating Communities that Lift Lives.Contact InformationLaura ZanerVice President, Michaels Corporate Marketinglzaner@ tmo.com 856-988-5983; 856-630-1540Domenica DeSorteCorporate Marketing Communications Manager, The Michaels Organizationddesorte@ tmo.com (856) 396-8532SOURCE: The Michaels Organization On Tuesday, Aliko Dangote, founder and president/chief executive of the Dangote Group, urged the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to cancel inactive refinery licenses or impose annual penalties on holders. Speaking at the West African Refined Fuel Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, organised by NMDPRA and S&P Global Commodity Insights, Mr Dangote said encouraging others to build refineries is the responsibility of the NMDPRA and the government. I think encouraging other people to build refineries is the job of the NMDPRA and also the government. So, NMDPRA, I rely on your leadership to make sure we encourage those people who have collected licences to work with you. And I believe anybody who collected these licences from you and they are not using it, either you cancel them or you put a penalty on a yearly basis so that they will return the licence or they will build those refineries, Mr Dangote said. He said building a refinery threatens powerful interests that dominate the petroleum value chain across the continent. Across many African countries, this sector has historically been a major avenue for corruption and rent extraction. When you build a refinery and disrupt that system, you are not just innovating, you are threatening powerful interests that will seriously fight back, he added. Speaking further, he said Nigeria has become a net exporter of refined petroleum products, polypropylene, and urea, a historic turnaround. With our Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) production of 2,500 tons per day, we are working to encourage more homes to increase LPG utilisation. And we are just getting started. Very soon, the refinery will be listed to give all Nigerians an opportunity to become shareholders. We are open to partnerships with African governments, private investors, and regional institutions. Our vision is simple but ambitious: Africa should refine all the petroleum products it consumes, right here on African soil, he said. Addressing concerns of monopoly and dominance in Nigerias refining sector, he emphasised that many individuals with the means to contribute to Nigerias growth choose to criticise from the sidelines while investing their wealth abroad. Before I conclude, let me take this opportunity to address concerns around monopoly and dominance. The reality is that too many people who have both the means and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our nations growth choose instead to criticise from the sidelines while investing their wealth abroad, adding little to Nigerias real economy. We have chosen to bet on Nigeria and will continue to do so. So we should not allow dumping to destroy our manufacturing base. Others should be encouraged to build refineries if they are serious, he added. In his remarks, the Minister for State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, highlighted the governments strategic drive to support refiners, marketers, and regulators in creating an enabling environment for seamless trading within the region. As a government, our ambition is clear: to position Nigeria as the marketing hub for refined petroleum products in West Africa. This is why we continue to provide support to our refiners, marketers, and the NMDPRA, creating an enabling environment for seamless trading across the region, he said. Mr Lokpobiri said in driving success to the midstream and downstream sectors, We are growing the upstream segment deliberately, which has recorded growth. This vision, he said, is reflected in President Bola Tinubus bold decision to remove the subsidy on petroleum products, a move designed to unlock growth and stimulate investment in the downstream sector. While I commend our indigenous players in the refining industry, I urge more investors to seize this opportunity. By expanding our refining capacity, Nigeria can not only meet domestic demand but also become the refining hub for West Africa and the continent at large, he said. The United States exported more crude oil to Nigeria than it received for the first time in February and March 2025, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has said. The EIA, on Tuesday, said during this period, refinery maintenance in the US East Coast drove down US demand for crude oil imports, including imports from Nigeria, and the relatively new Dangote refinery in Nigeria drove up Nigerias demand for inputs, including crude oil it imported from the United States. This marks the first time that the United States was a net crude oil exporter to Nigeria, and structural changes to crude oil trade between the countries suggest this dynamic could occur more frequently, the energy agency said. The EIA said Nigeria imported crude oil from the United States in February last year, after the Dangote refinery began processing crude in January. It said Nigeria is more commonly considered a source for US crude oil imports. In nearly every year between 1973, when our country-level crude oil import data series began, and 2011, when an increase in domestic crude oil production reduced the need for light, sweet crude oil from Nigeria and other countries, Nigeria ranked among the top five sources of US crude oil imports. More recently, Nigeria ranked ninth among US crude oil import sources in 2024, it said. It explained that US gross exports of crude oil to Nigeria reached 111,000 barrels per day (b/d) in February 2025 and 169,000 b/d in March. Over the same period, it said US gross crude oil imports from Nigeria fell, from 133,000 b/d in January to 54,000 b/d in February and 72,000 b/d in March. These declines, it said, primarily reflected maintenance at the Phillips 66 Bayway refinery in New Jersey, reducing demand for crude oil imports. As the Bayway refinery returned to normal operations in April and the Dangote refinery experienced unplanned maintenance from early April through mid-May, US crude oil imports from Nigeria increased and US crude oil exports to Nigeria declined. The Dangote refinery is scheduled to reach full crude oil distillation capacity of 650,000 b/d this year; trade press reports indicate it is currently running at about 550,000 b/d, it added. The EIA said Dangote will likely continue processing imports of crude oil if the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) does not increase crude oil deliveries beyond the 300,000 b/d it currently delivers. Revenue from crude oil sales to the Dangote refinery is denominated in naira, Nigerias domestic currency. Because the naira has weakened relative to the US dollar, the NNPC has an economic incentive to sell its crude oil on international markets. In addition, the EIA said the NNPCs ability to increase deliveries may be limited because crude oil production by the NNPC and its partners has generally declined, falling from a peak of 2.4 million b/d in 2005 to 1.3 million b/d in 2024. The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has commenced a fresh investigation into the acquisition of OVH Energy Marketings downstream assets by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd). The chairman of the committee, Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday evening, said the decision follows a direct order from the House to reinvestigate the matter after the first report was rejected due to unaddressed critical facts. Speaking on the resolution reached by members after the special committee meeting, Mr Ugochinyere said the investigation is distinct from the previous inquiry carried out by the former committee. He said members of the public are invited to provide input before lawmakers present their recommendations on the House floor. He added that any individual found to have acted improperly either through direct wrongdoing or failure in oversight will be identified, and appropriate recommendations will be made in the best interest of the nation. The House mandated the Downstream Committee to undertake a fresh investigation with a clear directive to uncover what truly transpired in the OVH acquisition process. This includes examining the funds paid, details of the acquisition agreement, the assets involved, and the circumstances in which former OVH managers were reported to have formed a new company that later acquired OVH itself, Mr Ugochinyere said. Shockingly, he said those same individuals are also alleged to have assumed leadership roles within NNPC Retail, raising serious concerns about the integrity and transparency of the entire transaction. The committee has now begun this re-investigation in earnest and held a special committee meeting to deliberate on the matter. One of the key resolutions at that meeting was the timely completion of the investigation, which has been long overdue. Pressure from retail staff, industry stakeholders, and members of the public has mounted, questioning the delay and demanding accountability, he said. He explained that one of the major causes of delay was the failure of certain stakeholders to submit vital documents. However, he said the committee has resolved to move forward with or without those submissions and complete the assignment as mandated by the House. As part of the parliamentary process, the investigation must be concluded and a detailed report submitted to the House for action. This investigation is critical not just to address the numerous unanswered questions and alleged irregularities surrounding the OVH acquisition but also to allow the new leadership at NNPC Retail to focus fully on their ongoing reforms without distraction. Laying these matters to rest is essential for restoring public trust and ensuring that the reforms are not undermined by past controversies, he said. The Acquisition NNPC Ltd announced in October 2022 the acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing Limiteds downstream assets. This acquisition would merge OVH Energy with NNPC Retail, a subsidiary of NNPC Ltd. The assets acquired from the company, which operated Oando filling stations, also include a reception jetty with 240,000 metric tonnes monthly capacity and eight liquefied petroleum gas plants, three lube blending plants, three aviation depots, and 12 warehouses. But in June 2023, PREMIUM TIMES investigation on the acquisition exposed the secret deals and the complicated ownership structure that left managerial control of NNPC Retail in the hands of OVH Energy Marketing. The report also exposed that OVH Energy Marketing may not have owned as many filling stations as it claimed during the merger talks. In addition, the report highlighted how Huub Stokman, an expatriate and former Chief Executive Officer of OVH Energy, emerged as the new Managing Director of NNPC Retail, a development that further compounded the structure of NNPC Retail. This newspaper also found out that the acquisition of OVH Energy had turned NNPC Retail into a toxic workspace, with officials of the former taking over the latters running. In July 2023, the House of Representatives, following the adoption of a motion by Miriam Onuoha (APC, Imo), directed NNPC Ltd to suspend the acquisition pending an investigation by its committee. Consequently, the House, in September 2023, set up an ad-hoc committee with Hassan Nalabraba (APC, Nasarawa) as the chairperson to investigate the acquisition. The ad-hoc committee requested the NNPC Ltd to furnish it with information about registration documents/history from CAC for OVH, Nueoil, and NNPC Retail Limited (NRL), Board Resolution of NNPC Ltd on purchase of OVH, Audited Financial Statement and Management Accounts from 2015 to Date OVH, Nueoil, NRL and NNPC Ltd and the payroll from 2015 to date for NRL and OVH, Board Resolution of NRL/CHQ for movement of head office to Lagos and evidence of Tax Payments for NRL and OVH from 2015 to date. The committee also requested documents on all financial transactions associated with the acquisition, including payment records and fund transfers. In September 2023, the then Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Mele Kyari, while appearing before the committee investigating the acquisition, said NNPC Ltd operated like a private limited liability company and entered the commercial relationship with OVH to take over market shares in the downstream petroleum sector. He said NNPC Ltd did nothing wrong in the acquisition. Meanwhile, some NNPC Retail concerned staff, in a letter dated 25 September 2023, addressed to the Chairperson of the House Committee, and signed on their behalf by Mohammed Muazuo, noted that the request by the committee was not met. In October 2023, Mr Nalabraba presented a report on the investigation. In January 2024, NNPC Ltd announced that it was unable to complete the OVH acquisition. It said it intended to apply for operating licences for the facilities under OVH Energy Marketing Limited. In February 2024, the House of Representatives dissolved the committee investigating the controversial acquisition after the panel presented a report many lawmakers described as suspicious and shabby. The task was subsequently transferred to the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) for a fresh investigation. PREMIUM TIMES in August 2024, reported how a court ruling had effectively dissolved the NNPC Retail and transferred its ownership to OVH Energy Marketing Limited. This newspaper also reported that the NNPC Retail, with registration number 826223, incorporated on 21 June 2009, and Nueoil Energy with registration number 1902885, incorporated on 8 March 2022, were dissolved by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), while the OVH Energy Marketing Limited with registration number 655791, incorporated on 5 June 2006 remained active. An official search by this newspaper at the time showed that the OVH Energy Marketing Limited, with registration number 655791, incorporated on 5 June 2006, had been renamed as NNPC Retail Limited. Narrow banking is a concept first proposed by the Chicago School economists and was brought up again during the savings and loan crisis. It advocates for the separation of main banking functions, encompassing two primary categories of institutions: Narrow Banks: These financial institutions offer fully guaranteed deposits with premium liquid assets, such as Treasury Bills or Central Bank Reserves. Functionally similar to money market funds, they are primarily designed for payment purposes. Merchant Banks: These entities engage in lending through equity or long-term bonds, thereby insulating themselves from the risks associated with bank runs. Supporters, like Marvin Barth, claim that stablecoins can successfully implement limited bankings tenets. A 1:1 backing of stablecoins with premium liquid assets is required by recent legislative measures like the GENIUS and STABLE Acts, which also encourage comprehensive audits and present stablecoins in a manner akin to that of regular deposits. Also, Decentralised finance (DeFi) and traditional monetary systems are meant to be more closely aligned. Present Situation: Political Dynamics and Technology DeFis growing popularity has led to a notable increase in stablecoin usage in cryptocurrency ecosystems, enabling globally distributed and programmable payment systems. A growing mistrust of big banks, powerful lobbying from the cryptocurrency industry, and a national strategic interest in thwarting Chinas aspirations in digital currency development have all contributed to the significant bipartisan political interest in this field. The US Treasury Secretary has emphasised the potential for stablecoin-backed purchases of Treasury bills. Transition Challenges and Limitations Transitioning to a full-reserve narrow banking system would necessitate substantial asset sales or a contraction of credit, which could lead to a significant credit crunch. Due to the influence of established banking interests, there is a tendency for political opposition persistence. Furthermore, current legislative efforts do not yet provide stablecoin issuers with direct access to the Federal Reserve, potentially safeguarding existing banking structures. However, recognising Federal Reserve reserves as high-quality liquid assets suggests a possible long-term alignment with narrow banking principles. Implications and Strategic Considerations The move towards a narrow banking model involving stablecoins presents both opportunities and challenges: Beneficiaries: Consumers and businesses can anticipate low-cost, programmable payment solutions, while merchant lenders may gain from increased regulatory clarity. The United States could also experience an expansion of Treasury bill markets. Impacted Entities: Traditional fractional-reserve banks may contend with a diminished deposit base and increased competition within the payment sector, which could prompt realignment in the industry. On a global scale, the establishment of a robust US stablecoin standard may strengthen the resilience of international payment systems against competing regimes, such as China. Given the United States extensive bond and shadow banking sectors, it is particularly well-positioned to adopt the principles of narrow banking without destabilising its credit markets. Broader Implications and Risks Following the introduction of the GENIUS Act, which enforces full-reserve backing and audit requirements, the stablecoin market has grown significantly and recently achieved a market capitalisation of $252 billion. However, the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has cautioned that stablecoins may not meet essential criteria such as consistent valuation, flexible supply, and compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) regulations, categorising them as risky in the absence of central bank oversight. Major fintech companies, including Fiserv and Mastercard, are innovating payment solutions that utilise regulated stablecoins, which makes the competitive landscape of financial institutions to change . As regulatory frameworks advance in the United States, they stand in contrast to a more careful international perspective focused on monetary stability. Conclusion Mr Barth sees stablecoins as a tangible rebirth of limited banking that merges economic strategy, political drive, and technology breakthroughs. Regulatory structures, such as access to the Federal Reserve, are still lacking, and there are still inherent hazards, as the BIS has pointed out, which makes its future complicated. There might also be difficulties due to opposition from traditional financial institutions. Stablecoins have the potential to drastically alter credit arrangements, payment methods, and the whole international monetary system if handled properly. Further Reading BIS critique on stability and sovereignty Overview of the GENIUS Act and its market impact Developments in real-world applications by Fiserv and Mastercard A professor of mass communication at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, has called for the adoption of a 30 per cent electoral gender quota at all levels of public office, party structures and government appointments. Ms Ogwezzy-Ndisika made the call during a colloquium titled Female Representation in Nigerias Public Administration: Prospects and Challenges on Tuesday at UNILAG, Lagos. By increasing the number of women in public service, the professor believes that decision-making processes can be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. The event was organised in honour of Maryam Quadri, the first female professor and acting head of political science at UNILAGs faculty of social sciences, by her former students. Mrs Quadri, a Commonwealth fellow, holds a doctorate in political science with specialisation in public administration and public policy. Women in Nigerias politics Although women make up almost half of Nigerias population, only four women, compared to 109 men, are Senators. The House of Representatives has just 16 female lawmakers out of 360 (4.7 per cent) members. Nigeria ranks among the lowest in Africa and globally in terms of womens representation. Despite being the most populous African country, Nigeria ranks 179 out of 183 in terms of womens representation in the national legislature globally, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a Paris-based international organisation of national parliaments. In a bid to change the face of the Nigerian political landscape, gender advocates and civil society organisations are currently working to advance the Special Seats Bill, also known as the Reserved Seats Bill. This proposed legislation aims to establish additional seats in the legislature, thereby breaking down long-standing obstacles to womens political representation. Gender gap Delivering the keynote address, Ms Ogwezzy-Ndisika, the first female professor of mass communication in the institution, said media coverage is skewed towards the personal lives of women in public service rather than their achievements. When you want to report us, you report on how delectable we are, or the number of children we have had, or how many husbands we have married, or you saw us in one escapade, she said. And men do all these; they dont make the news, and so you create a negative perception around us without looking at our abilities. Its what we can do that should concern you, not our private lives. She mentioned this as one of the barriers to female representation in public service while stressing the need to improve and strengthen media representation for ethical and gender-sensitive election coverage. The communication expert also identified policy gaps, social and cultural gaps and the toxic mix of violence, intimidation and electoral hostility as barriers. She added that the media can be a barrier, especially in how it presents women in public service and a bridge. Whats fueling gender imbalance? Despite the advocacy regarding inclusion, challenges persist, the professor said. Citing international expert observers review, Ms Ogwezzy-Ndisika highlighted two deep challenges. She said these challenges include the failure of past constitutional amendments, insufficient gender quotas, and inadequate support from winning political parties. READ ALSO: Nigerian university decries N200 million monthly electricity bills She advocates for urgent actions to close the gender gap, including electoral gender quotas of at least 30 per cent across all levels of public service. She also called for rigorous enforcement of affirmative action policies and electoral reforms to address social, economic and cultural factors limiting womens participation. On his part, Tosin Adesile, a lecturer, spoke on the enforcement gap despite constitutional provisions. Mr Adesile emphasised the importance of gender equality in public service, noting that good governance demands inclusivity. The lecturer highlighted that countries with high female representation experience economic growth, reduced corrupt practices and improved social indicators. In her remarks, Mrs Quadri expressed gratitude to the 2010 alums for the pleasant celebration. She urged undergraduates present at the event to be determined to break the glass ceiling. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is partnering with pharmaceutical companies to produce NHIA-branded drugs in Nigeria. The move aims to improve access to quality medications and restore confidence in the scheme. This was disclosed by the Oyo State NHIA Coordinator, Babajide Daramola, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Ibadan. According to Mr Daramola, the initiative is designed to enhance the delivery of efficient healthcare services and create a more positive perception of the NHIA programme. To ensure that adequate drugs are available for our subscribers, we are set to produce our own NHIA-branded drugs in partnership with pharmaceutical companies with whom we have signed agreements, he said. These drugs will carry the NHIA brand to signify improvements in our operations and will be made available in all NHIA-accredited healthcare facilities across the country. He said the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) had been signed and implementation can begin this year. He urged enrollees to consistently provide feedback and report any irregularities experienced at their registered health facilities. If an enrollee receives low-quality drugs or is made to buy drugs outside, they should report it. Only then can we take action. We ensure that those who buy drugs externally and report back are reimbursed, he explained. Mr Daramola emphasised NHIAs commitment to quality assurance, stating that the organisation routinely conducts facility inspections and investigates any infractions. He, however, noted that some reports from enrollees had turned out to be false. He also clarified that the NHIA, like other health insurance schemes worldwide, predominantly provided generic drugs, not branded ones. Globally, health insurance schemes use generic drugs, including in countries like the UK, USA, and Germany. These generics have the same potency, chemical composition, and therapeutic effects as branded medications, he explained. Esther Adedeji lamented that the NHIA pharmacy at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, often lacked prescribed medications. Ive gone there several times, and they dont have the drugs. I have no choice but to buy them outside at a higher cost, Mrs Adedeji said. Similarly, Anthony Yusuf complained about the quality of drugs provided. Most times, they give us low-quality drugs, and sometimes they say our NHIS or HMO doesnt cover certain medications, he said. Francis Ogunsola reported inconsistent availability of drugs at the UCH NHIA pharmacy. Some days, the drugs are available; other days, theyre not. But when they have them, its really helpful, he said. Responding to the concerns, Happy Adedapo, chairman of the Oyo State Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), attributed the inadequate drug supply to inconsistent funding and the rising cost of pharmaceuticals. Mr Adedapo called on the government to increase funding for the NHIA scheme and ensure proper monitoring of its implementation. Government must move beyond promises and actually implement policies and agreements. Many of the initiatives promised to improve healthcare are yet to be realised, he stated. Mr Adedapo emphasised the need for collective efforts by insurance agencies and stakeholders to build a more reliable healthcare system. The recurring trend of public officials seeking medical care abroad will continue unless we invest in our local healthcare infrastructure. We must eliminate corruption and ensure funds are properly used, he added. (NAN) The House of Representatives has indicted 31 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) over financial infractions uncovered in the 2019 and 2020 reports of the Auditor Genreral of the Federation The breaches, amounting to over 103.8 billion and $950,912.05, include unauthorised expenditures, procurement and contract irregularities, as well as unremitted revenues. This action aligns with earlier investigative reports by PREMIUM TIMES, which exposed that MDAs illegally withdrew 13.95 trillion and incurred over 5.8 trillion in unapproved extrabudgetary spending in 2019, a trend of opaque financial practices now addressed institutionwide. Motivated by a motion moved by the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Bamidele Salam (PDP, Osun) during Tuesdays plenary, the House directed anti-corruption agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to recover the misappropriated funds and ensure their return to the federal treasury. The committee, after scrutinising the Auditor-Generals annual reports for 2019 and 2020, cited systemic financial indiscipline across multiple government entities. The adopted recommendations, in accordance with the House Standing Orders, include recoveries, sanctions and institutional measures to prevent recurrence. Highlights of infractions and directives Among the agencies cited, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was faulted for unauthorised expenditure on a presidential lodge at the Nigerian Embassy in Ethiopia. It was directed to refund over 124 million and nearly $795,000. An additional 31.7 million and $155,923 were spent without appropriation. The ministry was also ordered to recover 49.4 million disbursed for renovation without following procurement guidelines and 9.2 million paid to embassy staff without documentation. The Bank of Agriculture came under scrutiny for failing to recover 75.6 billion in loans. The PAC instructed it to publish the names of debtors in at least three national newspapers. It was also asked to recover an additional 350 million and provide evidence of compliance within 90 days. The Nigeria Correctional Service was directed to remit 7.47 million in unpaid withholding tax to the government while the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) was cited for the illegal retention of 12 vehicles, including eight official and four operational ones by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and for procurement violations worth over 12 million. Its accounting officer faces recommended sanctions. Kwali Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory was flagged for disbursing 82 million to over 100 unidentified beneficiaries. The former council chairman was instructed to recover and remit the sum and present documentary evidence. For its part, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) was asked to work with the Accountant-General of the Federation to compile a breakdown of all items credited to both the Federation and Non-Federation Accounts. At the Rural Electrification Agency, the committee uncovered irregularities totalling over 1.3 billion. The former managing director was ordered to refund 394 million spent on unapproved projects and another 969 million that was illegally transferred to a Eurobond account. Additional unauthorised expenses included 4.2 million on publicity. The Veterinary Council of Nigeria was cited for failure to remit 1.1 million in stamp duties and over 19 million in internally generated revenue and excess payments. Nigerian Communication Satellite Limited was directed to refund over 1 billion, including 250 million allegedly misappropriated by contractors and staff and 95 million in unremitted taxes collected between 2012 and 2018. It was also asked to recover nearly 700 million in staff and trade debts. The Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc disbursed 14.4 billion in unapproved salaries and allowances. The committee ordered full recovery of this sum, alongside 432 million representing under-deducted employee entitlements and 91.5 million spent on ICT procurement without NITDA clearance. Other key recommendations In its 2020 report, the PAC directed the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to refund over 452 million for unauthorised cash advances, virements and prepayment violations. It was also asked to retrieve an official Toyota Prado SUV from an officer. The Cross River Basin Development Authority was asked to refund 3.5 billion after failing to provide 731 payment vouchers and to account for multiple procurement and tax irregularities. The PAC mandated the EFCC to investigate 278.8 million in contingencies hidden in contracts between 2014 and 2019 and 169.1 million in alleged compensation payments. The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion was asked to recover 27.1 million spent on unauthorised foreign travel and 12.4 million in unremitted VAT. The Federal Government Girls College, Imiringi in Bayelsa Stare was asked to refund 32.1 million due to negligence in awarding a contract for construction on unsuitable land. The Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy was directed to refund 4.8 million spent on an unapproved international training in South Korea. The Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria was cautioned for spending 10.2 million on legal fees without required approvals. The National Centre for Energy Efficiency and Conservation in Lagos was found to have overpaid a contractor by 7.2 million for an office building. Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company was ordered to recover 188.3 million disbursed as property loans by its former CEO Marylin Amobi and associates. The committee said legal channels must also be used to retrieve $69.3 million owed by a Benin Republic-based firm. Additionally, 63.6 million worth of assets allegedly converted for personal use and 7 million in under-deducted stamp duties are to be recovered. The National Film and Video Censor Board was cited for failing to remit 4.3 million in withholding tax and was asked to refund 20.2 million spent on unauthorised police training. The EFCC is to probe 18.5 million and 43.5 million paid for possibly fictitious contracts. The Treasury was advised to suspend allocations to the board due to violations of e-payment policy, while 27.2 million spent on foreign trips without approval must be refunded. The Police Service Commission (PSC) was sanctioned for exceeding approved mobilisation thresholds amounting to 110.8 million. The Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiation was directed to refund 71.9 million for unauthorised virements and provide proof of tax remittances totalling 198.1 million. It must also refund 123.7 million and 149 million spent on unauthorised international trips and was warned over illegal recruitment and ICT procurements. The Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Enugu was cautioned by the committee for advancing 14 million in unauthorised cash. The Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka was told to refund 27.4 million paid to external solicitors without approval and investigate 165.8 million used for unauthorised investments. The Federal Medical Centre, Bida, Niger State, was directed to investigate 456 million worth of direct procurements and contract splitting and recover over 600 million in unauthorised payments and virements. It must also refund 42.2 million overpaid to a contractor. The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria was asked to recover 5.8 million in stamp duties while the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe must refund 66.8 million for unauthorised virements and remit 2.6 million in unpaid taxes. Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital was ordered to remit 47.6 million in outstanding statutory taxes. The ICT Department of the Nigeria Police Force headquarters was directed to refund 1.1 billion spent on technology procurement without NITDAs approval. The department was also warned to ensure full access to its audit records going forward. PAC asked the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to refund 351 million unaccounted for under its Geneva Labour Desk programme. It is also to investigate questionable expenditures exceeding 1.5 billion across consultancy, job centres and skill acquisition projects. The Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development was ordered to refund 16 million in tax losses linked to cash advance misuse. The University of Uyo was directed to recover 36.9 million overpaid to a contractor and investigate 488.1 million in unexecuted contracts. The university must also refund 12 million in irregular allowances, 47.7 million in unpaid taxes, and provide an explanation for a 1.02 billion unauthorised contract variation. The PAC called for immediate enforcement by EFCC, ICPC, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service. It also recommended legislative or administrative reforms to empower agency heads to appoint external auditors when boards are not in place. It suggested that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation issue a circular or an amendment to the Financial Regulations to address the gap. Security and economic cooperation in West Africa was dealt a blow by the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in January. The three countries are governed by coup leaders, and in September 2023 formed an alternative security partnership the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Pragmatic bilateral cooperation between AES and other West African countries, such as Senegal and Togo, has taken place, and in May the AES and ECOWAS agreed on the need to jointly tackle terrorism. These are positive steps, but dont match the benefits of institutional security alliances in a volatile region. Many parts of West Africa are affected by cross-border terrorism, organised crime and localised conflicts between communities in border regions. The Global Terrorism Index 2025 ranks Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger among the worlds top five countries most affected by terrorism, and the violence is spreading southwards. This deteriorating security landscape underscores the urgent need to revitalise regional cooperation. Two platforms besides ECOWAS could help achieve that: the Accra Initiative and the Conseil de lEntente. The Accra Initiative includes Benin, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Togo, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, and was created to tackle terrorism and transnational organised crime. It is built on three pillars: joint military operations, intelligence and information sharing, and the training of security and intelligence personnel. However, the initiative has been largely inactive in recent years. Its last joint military operation was in 2021, with no plans for future actions. Activities related to the other two pillars have largely ceased, and member state representatives stationed at the Executive Secretariat in Accra have returned to their home countries. Several factors have contributed to its inactivity, including dynamics within the organisation. Diplomats interviewed by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) identified mistrust between AES states and their coastal neighbours stemming partly from ECOWAS decisions to establish a regional force to counter coups. This was after the overthrows in Mali in 2020 and 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in July 2023. After Nigers coup, ECOWAS threatened to intervene militarily to restore constitutional order. In September 2023, relations deteriorated after Niger accused Benin of authorising deployments to restore deposed president Mohamed Bazoum to power. Despite these challenges, cooperation remains essential. ISS research shows that violent extremist groups in the Sahel are using illicit networks that operate through coastal states. Disrupting these resource flows would significantly weaken the groups, offering mutual security benefits for both Sahelian and coastal countries. Given a weakened ECOWAS and an inactive Accra Initiative, the Conseil de lEntente is a promising alternative for renewed collaboration. Based in Abidjan and founded in 1959, the organisation includes nearly all members of the Accra Initiative excluding Ghana. Mali has observer status. Like the Accra Initiative, the Conseil has three main organs: the Conference of Heads of State and Government, Council of Ministers and Committee of Experts. Its core objectives include promoting peace, security and stability. One of its defining principles is the sovereign equality and independence of member states. Unlike ECOWAS, it does not suspend or sanction members following coups or constitutional crises. This politically neutral stance has likely contributed to Burkina Faso and Nigers continued membership, alongside the need for economic integration. Notably, its deputy executive secretary is from Niger. This commitment to neutrality is reinforced by the Conseil de lEntentes discreet consensus-based diplomatic style. It often engages member states at the highest political levels on sensitive issues while avoiding public pressure. A diplomat told ISS that this approach fosters long-term trust and confidence, ensuring that member states see the organisation as a partner rather than an enforcer. The Conseil has experience in convening regional stakeholders to discuss shared security challenges. Since 2016, it has held annual meetings of security ministers, preceded by expert consultations involving heads of police, gendarmerie and border management agencies. These gatherings have addressed the growing threat of violent extremism in both the Sahel and coastal regions. Beyond national governmental engagement, the organisation has supported knowledge and experience sharing among local government officials, civil society actors and other stakeholders affected by violent extremism. With technical support from ISS and funding from Switzerland, the Conseil organised regional workshops on preventing violent extremism in Abidjan (2018), Ouagadougou (2019) and Lome (2023). Given its neutrality and sustained connections with both AES and coastal states, the Conseil is well-positioned to initiate mediation that could gradually restore cooperation. Plans along these lines are already underway, alongside ministerial and expert meetings in 2025 to review the implementation of national strategies to prevent violent extremism. There are also ongoing discussions about Ghana potentially joining the organisation. This would create a membership base similar to the Accra Initiative though with a broader mandate and a different operational approach. Ghanaian representatives, including the current Special Envoy to the AES states, have previously participated in Conseil de lEntente activities. Burkina Faso and Nigers continued participation in the Conseil suggests a degree of confidence in its neutrality and an openness to renewed dialogue. That means the Conseil is uniquely positioned to facilitate the revival of sustainable regional security cooperation. However, a comprehensive independent assessment of both bilateral relations within the organisation and its institutional capacity to mediate ongoing tensions is essential. The findings could inform the design of targeted support to strengthen the Conseil de lEntentes role in regional peace and security. Sampson Kwarkye, Project Manager, Littoral West African States, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Regional Office for West Africa and the Sahel Research for this article was funded by the governments of Denmark and The Netherlands, and the Bosch Foundation. (This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish). The Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday struck out the N12.3 billion fraud charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko, following the withdrawal of the case by the anti-graft agency. Delivering the ruling, the trial judge, Chukwujekwu Aneke, gave the order after EFCC lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), informed the court that the matter had been amicably resolved between the nominal complainant, First Bank of Nigeria, and the first defendant, Mr Otudeko. The EFCC had filed a 13-count against Mr Otudeko; a former Managing Director of First Bank, Olabisi Onasanya; a former Honeywell board member, Soji Akintayo; and a firm, Anchorage Leisure Limited. The defendants were accused of fraudulently obtaining N12.3 billion from First Bank by misrepresenting the funds as credit facilities requested by V-Tech Dynamic Links Ltd. and Stallion Nigeria Ltd between 2013 and 2014. At Wednesdays proceedings, Mr Otudekos lawyer, Bode Olanipekun, also a SAN, told the court that all issues leading to the charge had been resolved. Mr Oyedepo, representing the EFCC, confirmed this and said the resolution was formally communicated to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). He referenced a letter dated 16 July in which First Bank formally withdrew its complaint and a follow-up letter on 21 July reiterating that the parties had fully resolved their differences. Mr Oyedepo added that Mr Otudeko had refunded the disputed funds to First Bank. In the interest of justice and to prevent abuse of the court process, the Attorney General has decided to discontinue the prosecution, Mr Oyedepo submitted, citing Section 180 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). Other defence lawyers Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN (for Mr Onasanya); Tunde Babalola, SAN (for Mr Akintayo); and Charles Adeogun-Phillips, SAN (for Anchorage Leisure Ltd.)confirmed the amicable settlement of the matter. Mr Aneke subsequently struck out the case. Honeywell welcomes withdrawal Following the courts ruling, the Honeywell Group, in a statement signed by its General Counsel, Olasumbo Abolaji, welcomed the development and described it as a reaffirmation of Mr Otudekos integrity. Honeywell Group confirms that the legal proceedings initiated by the EFCC against our Chairman, Dr. Oba Otudeko, CFR, in connection with matters relating to First Holdco Plc, have been formally withdrawn, the statement read. At no point was there any finding or admission of wrongdoing, and this conclusion further affirms what we have always maintained that this was a commercial transaction, investigated by the EFCC and resolved eight years ago, it added. The Group mentioned Mr Otudekos six-decade-long contribution to Nigerias economy, banking, and public service, and reaffirmed its commitment to value creation in food, energy, infrastructure, and financial services. Background The case had a lengthy legal history. The EFCC initially filed the charges in January, accusing the defendants of conspiring to fraudulently obtain credit facilities under false pretences. The charge alleged that forged documents, including letters of application purportedly from V-Tech Dynamic Links Ltd, were presented to First Bank to secure the funds. In count 13 of the charge specifically alleged that Otudeko, while serving as Chairman of First Bank Plc, failed to declare a personal interest in a loan facility worth N6.15 billion allegedly sought by V-Tech Dynamic Links Ltd. The case first came up for arraignment on 20 January, but the defendants were absent. Their counsel argued that they were unaware of the charge until it appeared in the media. The court then ordered substituted service of the charge. Subsequent court appearances were marked by preliminary objections from defence lawyers, who challenged the jurisdiction of the court and sought to quash the charge. The EFCC, however, insisted that the arraignment must proceed before any objections could be heard. Mr Otudekos lawyer later informed the court that the defendant was under medical review in the UK and unable to appear physically. Meanwhile, negotiations for settlement progressed behind the scenes. By 8 May, the court had adjourned the case for a report on settlement and/or arraignment based on updates from both the defence and prosecution. On March 17, it was disclosed that the Attorney General of the Federation had convened meetings with parties involved, aiming for peaceful resolution. Ultimately, the matter was resolved out of court, paving the way for the case to be struck out on 23 July. The development came on the heels of the decision by Mr Otudeko and Oye Hassan-Odukale two of the top shareholders of First HoldCo Plc to offload their stakes in the financial services group last week, easing the path for Femi Otedola, its chair and biggest shareholder, to firm up his holding in the entity. A total of 10.43 billion shares, equivalent to nearly 25 per cent of the groups outstanding shares, were traded off-market in 17 negotiated deals on 16 July at N31, PREMIUM TIMES reported. President Bola Tinubu has requested the approval of the House of Representatives for an additional $347 million external loan under the federal governments 20252026 borrowing plan. The request was contained in a letter read on the House floor on Wednesday by the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen. Mr Tinubu explained that the adjustment became necessary due to an increase in the funding requirement for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, whose cost rose from $700 million to $747 million, a $47 million increment. He said the projects under the revised borrowing plan were selected based on rigorous economic evaluations and their projected contribution to national development goals, including job creation, skill development, promotion of entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction. He further noted that the inclusion of the revised projects in the borrowing plan would enable financial closure and support timely implementation. The House referred the presidents request to the Joint Committee on Finance, Aids, Loans and Debt Management for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is expected to review the technical and financial justification of the new borrowing request before presenting its recommendations to the full chamber. Previous external borrowing plan The latest request comes amid Nigerias expanding borrowing profile under the Mr Tinubu administration. In November 2023, the President sought legislative approval for a $7.8 billion and 100 million borrowing plan to fund key infrastructure and social development projects over the 20222024 period. In March 2025, Mr Tinubu sought legislative approval for a new external borrowing plan of over $21.5 billion, and a domestic bond issuance of 757.9 billion to settle outstanding national pension liabilities. The Senate approved the borrowing plan on Tuesday. Meanwhile, as of March 2025, the countrys total public debt stock stood at over 121 trillion (approximately $91 billion), according to figures released by the Debt Management Office (DMO). Despite frequently raised concerns over the sustainability of the countrys borrowing spree, warning of future repayment burdens and fiscal vulnerabilities, the federal government has, however, maintained that concessional loans are essential to bridging Nigerias infrastructure gap and stimulating growth. The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has launched a comprehensive investigation into several critical issues affecting Nigerias downstream oil sector,. The investigation will cover, among others, the controversial Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) of the countrys refineries, the acquisition of OVH Energy, and the mounting concerns over market dominance by the Dangote Refinery. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Committee, Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo), said the investigation aims to uncover the reasons behind the persistent underperformance of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, despite substantial investments and public assurances of operational readiness. Mr Ugochinyere noted that the committee intends to establish whether these failures justify the proposals to sell or privatise the refineries, even as he insisted that a thorough fact-finding process must precede any such decision. He said the committee will investigate the constraints faced by local and modular refineries in accessing crude oil. According to the chairman, it is unacceptable that Nigerian refiners are compelled to travel as far as Switzerland to negotiate the purchase of Nigerian crude, calling for urgent solutions to ease domestic crude supply. The committee, Mr Ugochinyere said, has received numerous petitions from stakeholders across the sector including refinery operators, oil marketers, and retailers, raising concerns about policy inconsistencies that threaten their investments. Among the most contentious issues is the alleged plan by the Dangote Refinery to assume control over the transportation and retailing of petroleum products, a move stakeholders fear could lead to market monopoly. The lawmaker noted that several marketers and retailers have warned that such a development could cripple private investments and trigger market instability. The committee agreed this morning to look into the state of the refinery to find out what happened because public funds were paid. It is a company but the access of the company still belongs to the Nigerian people and they are asking us questions. The committee has received series of petitions which we have decided to handle to find out the state of refinery and the Turn Around Maintenance he said. Mr Ugochinyere further disclosed that the committee is reopening investigations into the acquisition of OVH Energy by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Retail, following unresolved complaints from staff and stakeholders. The House had earlier rejected the findings of a previous investigation and mandated a fresh review of the deal. The committee after receiving petitions about the non-completion of the investigation that was ordered by the House for the investigation of the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of OVH energy, resolved to complete that detective of the House to investigate the matter. It was investigated before but the Parliament rejected the first report and asked for detailed work to be carried out he said. On broader legislative reforms, Mr Ugochimyere announced plans to propose amendments to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to address emerging gaps and strengthen regulatory frameworks particularly around the role of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). While confirming the dismissal of a petition seeking the dissolution of the NMDPRA board, the committee chair emphasised that appointment powers rest with the President under the PIA. We cannot go back to the old order where every government fires people anyhow. We are not out to protect anybody. If anybody is found to have been engaged in corrupt activities, the law should be allowed to take its course, he added. The committee also announced investigation into the potential exclusion of artisanal refiners from the petroleum refining value chain. According to Mr Ugochinyere, the experience and capacity of these small-scale operators should not be overlooked in ongoing reforms. He said the committee is also probing the alleged abandonment of the Biomas Ethane project and lingering concerns over fuel importation, including how to ensure adequate protection for local refiners through legislative interventions. A pattern of failures and probes The committees investigation reflects a longstanding pattern of failed reforms and questionable spending in Nigerias downstream sector. Between 1999 and 2021, successive administrations approved billions of naira for TAM across the countrys major refineries without tangible results. In 2021 alone, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved $1.5 billion for the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery, which lawmakers criticised as wasteful when the facility failed to deliver results. Likewise, the acquisition of OVH by NNPC Retail in 2022 triggered similar outrage. Stakeholders accused NNPC of side-stepping due process and using the acquisition to expand its retail dominance at the expense of transparency and fair market competition. Concerns about potential monopoly by the Dangote Refinery have also been raised before, particularly as the refinery approaches full-scale operations. Independent marketers have warned that without policy safeguards, the companys vertical integration could crowd out smaller players and distort petroleum product pricing and distribution. Previous probe by committee This is not the first time the committee will be involved in the investigation of the oil sector.. In 2024, it was part of an ad hoc committee mandated to investigate the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the non-availability of crude oil for domestic refineries, and other critical energy security issues. The ad hoc committee was, however, dissolved by the leadership of the House following some controversies it was enmeshed in, particularly regarding the investigation of the impasse between the Dangote Refinery and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDRA). Government blocks Fair Work Commission independence by banning penalty rate absorption models that could simplify Australias complex 994-rate retail award system. The Labor government is introducing legislation that will prevent Australian businesses from negotiating with employees to absorb penalty rates into higher base salaries, even when workers would receive substantial pay increases. The new Fair Work Act amendments, introduced as one of parliaments first bills this week, prohibit any arrangement where penalty rates are incorporated into base salaries regardless of whether employees would be financially better off under such arrangements. Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth announced the legislation responds to Fair Work Commission cases where employers sought to modernize pay structures, but business groups warn the intervention undermines workplace flexibility and productivity at a critical economic moment. What this means for your business The legislation directly targets current Fair Work Commission applications, particularly from retail employers seeking to offer simplified salary arrangements. Under the new laws, businesses cannot offer employees the choice to trade penalty rate structures for higher, more predictable base salaries. For the retail sector alone, this affects potential arrangements for workers covered by the General Retail Industry Award, which the ARA says currently spans 96 pages and includes 994 different pay rates. The complexity creates significant compliance challenges, particularly for smaller businesses trying to navigate payroll obligations. Workers like retail employee Daniel, who relies on $85 weekly in penalty rates to supplement a $600-700 base wage, would be prevented from opting into alternative arrangements that might offer greater income security through higher salaries. Industry response The Australian Retailers Association has labeled the move as government overreach that contradicts productivity objectives. ARA CEO Chris Rodwell argued their Fair Work Commission application offered a commonsense option with a 35% base salary increase for retail managers choosing annualized salaries. This application is absolutely consistent with the governments stated intent when it initiated the FWCs independent review of Awards, Rodwell said. The ARA proposal included safeguards and never sought to remove penalty rates from awards entirely. The intervention comes just weeks before the governments August productivity summit, creating what Australian Industry Group CEO Innes Willox calls dark irony fast-tracking legislation that reduces workplace flexibility while seeking productivity improvements. The ARA warns the decision runs contrary to the governments stated ambitions to lift productivity in this term of government, dampening expectations and putting the conversation on labour productivity in reverse. Rodwell argues this reflects how Australias industrial relations environment fundamentally fails to support business investment and entrepreneurship. For businesses, the legislation means continuing to navigate what the ARA describes as Australias complex award system rather than accessing simplified salary structures. The ARA says the retail awards 994 pay rates create particular challenges for smaller operators, with Australias largest retailers find it difficult to navigate while our smallest retailers find it near impossible to interpret. The governments preference for enterprise bargaining as an alternative creates additional costs and administrative burdens for small to medium businesses. As the ARA notes, enterprise bargaining imposes additional costs, complexity and administrative pressures, further straining employers already navigating significant challenges in todays economic climate. Businesses in retail, clerical, and banking sectors that had applied to the Fair Work Commission for modernized pay arrangements will need to withdraw applications or face certain rejection under the new legislation. Strategic implications The penalty rate protection laws signal Labors ideological commitment to collective bargaining over individual workplace flexibility. This approach prioritizes union objectives and traditional award structures over business-led innovation in employment arrangements. For business leaders, the legislation represents a broader challenge: Australias industrial relations system is becoming less responsive to modern workplace needs while adding regulatory complexity. The governments intervention in Fair Work Commission independence also raises questions about the predictability of future workplace relations policy. The laws are expected to pass easily with Greens support, meaning businesses should prepare for continued complexity in award-based employment arrangements while exploring enterprise bargaining options despite their additional costs and administrative requirements. The ARA argues this reflects a broader challenge where Australias industrial relations environment fundamentally fails to support business investment and entrepreneurship, warning that improvements in living standards will be elusive if we dont face into this problem. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Ann-Kio Briggs, an activist and member of The Patriots, has renewed calls for a new Nigerian constitution, describing the 1999 Constitution as fundamentally flawed and imposed on the people by military rulers. Speaking on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television programme, on Tuesday, the 72-year-old environmentalist said the current constitution marginalises key segments of the population and cannot sustain a just and equitable society. The constitution is anti-women, anti-youth, and anti-Niger Delta, she said. It was handed down by military rulers, and despite repeated amendments and patches, it remains fundamentally flawed. Ms Briggs linked the ongoing political crisis in Rivers Statemarked by a rift between suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wiketo the structural weaknesses of the constitution. The people of Rivers State are bearing the brunt of a former governor who refuses to acknowledge that he is no longer in office, she said. He insists on controlling governance in the state because he claims he made the current governor. If thats the case, then he must also accept that others, like former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, and Dr Peter Odili, made him. She linked the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, where a rift between suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister has led to tension and governance setbacks, to the weakness of the current constitution. The people of Rivers State are at the receiving end of a former governor who refuses to see himself as a former governor, instead insisting on controlling the governance of Rivers State because he claims he made the current governor, she said. If that is the case, then he must also accept that others, like former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, and people like Dr. Peter Odili, made him. On 18 March, President Bola Tinubu declared an emergency rule in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara and other elected officials for six months. The president a retired naval officer to run the state as a sole administrator of the state for the period. The Senate, which took over the legislative functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly following the emergency declaration, passed the states 2025 budget on 25 June. President Tinubu has hosted several peace meetings with Governor Fubara and Mr Nyesom Wike at the Presidential Villa. But Ms Briggs, who hails from the state, said President Bola Tinubus intervention to reconcile the governor and the FCT minister has not changed anything in the state. For almost four months now, Rivers people have been unhappy. But we are watching to see how it all plays out by 1 October, said She added that Projects are being imposed on us, many of them frivolous, and theres no real accounting for our funds. Ms Briggs, who said she was a delegate to the 2014 National Conference convened by former President Goodluck Jonathan to address Nigerias structural and constitutional challenges, criticised political leaders for shying away from constitutional reforms. She alleged that Politicians today shy away from this because the current document favours them She maintained that the conference offered a unique opportunity to lay the foundation for a people-led constitution that reflected the interests of all Nigerians. She insisted the constitution must be completely rewritten, not merely amended, because Nigeria has never genuinely reached a national consensus on how its diverse groups should live together since independence from British colonial rule. The human rights activist faulted the view held by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that governance outcomes depend more on who is in office than on the constitution itself, arguing instead that a flawed legal framework can undermine even well-meaning leadership. Constitutional reform not regional agenda Ms Briggs emphasised that constitutional reform is a nationalnot a regionalissue. This isnt a Southern agenda; its a Nigerian one, she said, noting that leaders from the North, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Arewa groups, market women, youths, and stakeholders from all six geopolitical zones have, at various times, demanded constitutional review. She said The Patriots had met with President Tinubu a few months ago and are preparing to submit a more detailed proposal to him for onward transmission to the National Assembly. Were preparing to provide more detailed proposals to him soon so he can present them to the National Assembly, she said. She called on the legislature to reflect the will of Nigerians in any constitutional review process. The National Assembly is not meant to draft the constitution itself, but it must consider what the people they represent demand, she said. Ms Briggs warned that the country risked continued stagnation without structural reform. If were guided by equity and justice, Nigeria has a chance, she said. If not, we will remain stuckfinancially indebted and wasting the resources meant to build our nation. The Patriots The Patriots is a group of elder statemen, professionals, and civil society leaders advocating for constitutional reform in Nigeria. Chaired by former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, the group has consistently argued that the 1999 Constitution was imposed by the military and does not reflect the will of the Nigerian people. In August 2024, the group met with President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja to renew their call for a people-driven constitution. While acknowledging their concerns, the president said his administration was prioritising economic stability and assured them that constitutional reform would be addressed in due course. Alphonsus Alfa, a Catholic reverend father recently kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State, has regained freedom. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the priest, a staff member of a Christian non-governmental organisation, was abducted alongside his colleagues and other passengers along the Liman-Kara-Gwoza road in Borno State when he was returning from Mubi. After nearly 30 days in abduction, the State Security Services(SSS) and the Nigerian Army reportedly rescued him last Monday. He was rescued along with 10 other kidnap victims. The Catholic Bishop of Maiduguri Diocese, John Bakeni, broke the news to journalists in Maiduguri on Tuesday while commending the SSS and the Nigerian Army for the rescue. READ ALSO: 500 miners buried by landslides in eastern Congo NTA Maiduguri reported on Facebook that Mr Bakeni, also the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Borno State, commended the operatives for rescuing the 11 persons unhurt. Bandits randomly kidnap people for ransom in parts of the country. The heinous act is worse in the North-east, where terrorism and banditry have existed side by side for over a decade despite the efforts of the military and other security forces to tame them. The Federal High Court in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State has reserved judgement in a suit challenging the validity of the 2024 local elections in the state. The elections were held on 20 July 2024. The candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress won all the 13 chairmanship seats and 171 ward councillors in the state. But two indigenes of the state, Samuel Udeogu and Amaechi Isu filed the suit against the poll. Messrs Udeogu and Isu asked the court to nullify the elections for allegedly violating the 2022 Electoral Law. The Independent National Electoral Commission and the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) were listed in the suit as defendants. Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State and the Ebonyi State Government were also listed as defendants. 2022 precedent The ongoing legal battle draws on the precedent set in August 2022 when Justice Fatun Riman of the same court nullified the local council elections of that year. The court, at the time, held that the elections failed to comply with the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Law. Dave Umahi, now Nigeria s minister of works, was the governor of the South-eastern state at the time. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the Ebonyi State Government and the then sacked chairpersons of the 13 local government councils appealed the ruling at the Court of Appeal Enugu Division. But the Court of Appeal, in May 2025, affirmed the judgement of the Federal High Court Abakaliki which nullified the 2022 local elections in Ebonyi State. Arguments on 2024 suit On Tuesday, the court resumed hearing on the suit instituted by Messrs Udeogu and Isu challenging the 2024 local elections in Ebonyi. Mudi Erhenede, counsel to Mr Isu, the second plaintiff, urged the court to nullify the elections. Mr Erhenede argued that the state failed to comply with the appeal courts ruling concerning the 2022 polls. The lawyer maintained that the appeals filed by the state government and the chairpersons against the 2022 ruling of Federal High Court was directly linked to the issues raised in the present suit. READ ALSO: Court orders temporal forfeiture of N1bn allegedly diverted by Ebonyi official But I.N. Nwideagu, counsel to Ebonyi election commission and the state government, urged the court to dismiss the plaintiffs argument. Mr Nwideagu also urged the court to deliver judgement in favour of the 2nd and 3rd defendants (Governor Nwifuru and the state government) with punitive costs awarded against the plaintiffs. Reserved judgement Justice H.I.O. Ochoma reserved judgement after hearing arguments from parties to the suit. After the adoption of final addresses by all parties, Justice Ochoma announced that the date for delivery of judgement would be communicated to the parties in due course. Former Labour Partys vice presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed on Tuesday, criticised the zealous efforts to prevent Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from entering the National Assembly premises on Tuesday. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended by the Senate in March for six months, had vowed to resume following the judgement of the Federal High Court in Abuja which expressly described the six-month suspension as unconstitutional. The Senate had written back to the senator to inform her that its interpretation of the judgement, which was controversially framed like an advisory recommending her reinstatement, did not suggest that the court ordered her to be recalled. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, accompanied by her supporters on Tuesday, was blocked from entering the National Assembly premises. Mr Baba-Ahmed described the efforts put into stopping the senator from resuming as a display of misplaced priorities. Lack of priorities or mispriorities! These are people who will not react to the recent dastardly act in the North East, something just happened. These are people who will not react when the Naira crashed again in 2023-24. These are people who will not react to constitutional breaches or school abductions. That is, our priorities are completely misplaced so I call what happened. Mr Baba-Ahmed said this during an interview on Arise News on Tuesday. Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan was barred from accessing the National Assemblys main building by security personnel comprising the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the State Security Services (SSS) and the Sergeant-at-Arms. The senator had vowed to resume duty following the Federal High Courts ruling that her suspension for six months was unconstitutional. She was accompanied by activists, including Aisha Yesufu, and a crowd of supporters. Mr Baba-Ahmed, who expected a larger crowd to accompany the senator, noted the failure of Nigerians to converge and protest to defend their civic rights, security and livelihoods. He noted that many people would rather come out en masse for frivolities. Mr Baba-Datti encouraged Nigerians to unite in their fight to defend their civic rights, putting aside religious and ethnic differences. We have to stop talking about the North-West, South-South, North-Central, South-East and all these regions. Talk about social strata. The middle class, if it existsTalk about labour, TUC (Trade Union Congress). Talk about security personnel. Talk about farmers. Talk about traders, importers. Those are the geopolitical zones that we should be talking about, he said. Background Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 for alleged misconduct during the Senate plenary session of 20 February. The suspension was unanimously approved by her colleagues based on the Ethics Committees recommendation. She filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the disciplinary proceedings initiated against her and subsequently her suspension by the Senate. The suit led to the ruling delivered by the judge, Binta Nyako. The court held that suspending an elected senator for six months was not only disproportionate but also effectively silenced an entire senatorial district for most of the legislative year. In an unusual manner, the judge toned down her order, framing it like an advisory that left the Senate with the discretion to recall or not to recall her. On 12 July, Ms Akpoti-Uduaghan notified the management of the National Assembly of her intention to resume legislative duties on Tuesday. However, on 13 July, the National Assembly management maintained that the judgement by the Federal High Court was merely advisory, not an enforceable order. Judith Amaechi has dismissed as baseless the allegation by the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, that she received a N48 billion contract from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to train Niger Delta women. Mrs Amaechi is the wife of the former minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. The former first lady of Rivers made the rebuttal in a statement from her spokesperson, Dike Bekwele, on Tuesday. The allegations Mr Amaechi, who served as a minister under former President Muhammadu Buhari, had aspired to succeed the former president but lost at the primary to the incumbent President Bola Tinubu. He has remained a vocal critic of President Tinubus administration. The former Rivers governor is among the leaders of the opposition coalition that adopted the African Democratic Congress as a political platform to challenge Mr Tinubu re-election bid in 2027. About two weeks ago, Mr Amaechi appeared in an interview on Channels TV to discuss national politics, where the programme anchor questioned his source of wealth. Mr Amaechi, in his response, credited his wealth to his wife, Judith. He said his wealth was not questionable, and that he does not own the kind of cars, houses, and lands that Mr Wike has. Mr Wike succeeded Mr Amaechi as governor of the oil-rich Rivers in 2015. Both have been political rivals since 2014. My wife is almost an industrialist; she is the backbone of our family. She is from Anambra State. She is known for buying and selling even in the Government house, so dont ask me how I got my wealth, Mr Amaechi responded. Wikes reaction Then-minister of the Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio, conducted a forensic audit of the NDDC and presented the report to President Buhari in 2021, where he stated that over 13,000 projects were abandoned in the region since the creation of the interventionist agency. Although the exercise had a chequered history, I thank Mr President and all those who supported and ensured its success, Mr Akpabio had said, emphasising that the exercise was not done to witch-hunt anyone but to ensure that the huge funds committed to the area yearly were justified. However, the audit report is yet to be made public, forcing Nigerians to question the reason it was undertaken. About 48 hours after Mr Amaechis interview, the FCT minister appeared on Channels and dismissed Mr Amaechis claims that his wife was an industrialist. Mr Wike alleged that Mr Amaechis wife got billions of naira in contracts from the NDDC through her organisation, Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI). First of all, Amaechis wife was not an industrialist and has never been. The best I know, and that is why I call on President Tinubu to release the forensic audit of NDDC. Through Mr Amaechis wifes company, every month, N4 billion to train Niger Delta women. One year, N48 billion, Mr Wike alleged. Asked if he was privy to the document, Mr Wike urged President Tinubu to help Nigerians and release the audit report. N4 billion a month to train Niger Delta women, he shouted, when asked if it was a crime to get a government contract. I have said the president should do us a favour to release the document, he emphasised When asked if he had evidence to back up his allegation, Mr Wike said a former minister of justice killed the audit report to protect those who are concerned. I am saying let the president release the document. If what I am saying is not in the document, I will resign as FCT minister, he vowed. That is how the wife became an industrialist. N4 billion every month to train Niger Delta Women, he added. Baseless allegation Mrs Amaechi, in her rebuttal, dismissed the allegation as baseless and challenged the FCT minister to provide evidence. She said Mr Wike wanted to use the allegations to score cheap political points. She urged the public to disregard it. There is absolutely no iota of veracity in the allegation made by Mr Wike against Mrs Amaechi and the Empowerment Support Initiative. Mrs Amaechi did not and has never received N4 billion monthly payments from the NDDC, the statement said. However, the statement said the Empowerment Support Initiative, incorporated in 2011 as a non-governmental organisation, secured partnerships and collaborations with development partners, including the NDDC. According to the statement, the Empowerment Support Initiative and the NDDC are reciprocal to jointly funded human capacity programmes and trainings for the teeming youths and women; supporting nano, micro, small, and medium-scale entrepreneurs, and its entrepreneurial development center for youths and women of the Niger Delta Region. This partnership has been successfully executed since its commencement to the satisfaction of both ESI and the NDDC, with numerous youths and women within the Niger Delta region benefitting from the scheme for self-reliance and sustainability. Quite contrary to the falsehood concocted and diffused by Mr Wike, the counterpart funding between the ESI and the NDDC is in public glare for scrutiny. The statement said it was absurd for Mr Wike to allege that the Empowerment Support Initiative and Mrs Amaechi were indicted in the NDDC forensic audit report, which has not been published for the public. It is both absurd, baseless, and a mere figment of Mr Wikes imagination, the statement said, adding that the allegation of an indictment of Mrs Amaechi and the ESI is only a subtle blackmail to score cheap political goals. When contacted for comments on the matter, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the corporate affairs director of the NDDC, said she was not in a position to make any statement in respect to that accusation. READ ALSO: NDDC to focus on abandoned legacy projects Ogbuku When contacted, Mr Wikes spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, queried why Mrs Amaechi was defending herself two weeks after the allegation was made. Mr Olayinka said the FCT minister pointed fingers at the authority concerned to release the audit report, where the minister said the contract is found. He asked journalists to direct questions at the authority, not the minister. If hes privy to the document, the document is not his own but belongs to the authority concerned, he responded when told that with the weighty allegation, it means the minister was privy to the document. Mr Olayinka said Mr Wike may have had classified information about the audit report while serving as governor, but has no power to release it to the public. Mr Wike cannot release a report he did not authorise its audit. The report is an official document, he said. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholos recent remarks advising the Labour Partys 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to notify him before visiting the state. Messrs Okpebholo and Wike spoke at the launch of the new Edo Line mass transit buses in Benin City, the Edo State capital, on Tuesday. What I said was a simple advice. I told him not to visit Edo without informing me. As chief security officer, its a basic protocol. If asking him to notify me is considered a crime, so be it. I have no regrets, Mr Okpebholo said, amid backlash from critics who earlier described the remarks as illegal, reckless and inflammatory. Mr Wike also described the governors statement as a legitimate concern for Mr Obis safety, rather than a threat. Mr Wikes remarks were contained in a statement shared with PREMIUM TIMES by his deputy press director, Rabi Umar, on Tuesdays evening. As a former governor, when Peter Obi was coming to my state, he informed me. I provided logistics and vehicles for him. At that level, if something happens during such a visit, the governor will be held responsible, Mr Wike said. He added that public figures should avoid politicising the matter. So, Governor, you are right. You didnt say, Dont come. You only said, niform me. That is your duty as the chief security officer of the state, he stated. Mr Wike also criticised Mr Obis political style, accusing him of playing to the gallery. How long will you be serving food to Nigerians? This is a pretence. As president, you cant carry food around. People should stop pretending, he said. In a notable moment, Mr Wike publicly apologised to former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, and the people of Edo State for supporting former Governor Godwin Obasekis re-election in 2020. I apologise to Senator Oshiomhole and the people of Edo State for supporting Obaseki. He has clearly underperformed, Mr Wike said. Not a threat Governor Okpebholo said his earlier remarks asking Mr Obi to notify him before visiting the state was not a threat but an advisory. What I said was not a threat. It was an advice for his own good. As Chief Security Officer, Im responsible for the safety of everyone in Edo, including visitors, he said. Citing a past security incident, Governor Okpebholo said, I lost a security detail during Obasekis tenure after being attacked at Benin Airport. That is why I issued that advisory. If Mr Obi chooses not to take it, thats his decision. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support, pledging that Edo will deliver 2.5 million votes to ensure the Presidents re-election in 2027. Commendation for Edo Line revival Mr Wike praised Governor Okpebholo for revitalising the moribund Edo Line mass transit service, describing it as a major achievement in tackling insecurity and easing transportation burdens. Youve done two major things, he said. Youve enhanced public safety by offering traceable, regulated transport, and youve eased the cost burden on students, market women, and commuters. This is not a 3D renderingthis is reality. He added that the governors refusal to be distracted by legal battles over his election shows his commitment to service. Mr Oshiomhole, who is a senator, and several dignitaries from across the country were present at the commissioning ceremony. Mr Wike praised the people of Edo for standing behind Governor Okpebholo, describing his Supreme Court victory as proof of his mandate. Background PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported a wave of backlash over Governor Okpebholos remarks at a political rally in Uromi, Esan North East, where he warned Mr Obi not to visit Edo State without prior notice, citing a past visit that allegedly led to violence. This message is for the man who claims he has no shishi, Governor Okpebholo of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) said, referencing Mr Obis well-known remark about living a modest life. Theres a new sheriff in town. He cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. Im not joking. The comments drew comparisons to similar warnings issued in April by Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, who reportedly cautioned Mr Obi against visiting the state without approval for a humanitarian event. Mr Obi eventually cancelled that trip. In the 2023 presidential election, Mr Obi won Edo State and narrowly lost Benue to the APC. The remarks by Governor Okpebholo sparked criticism from lawyers, civil society organisations, and political commentators. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former national spokesperson of the Nigerian Bar Association, Kunle Edun, described the governors remarks as unconstitutional. Mr Obi is a citizen of Nigeria and has the constitutional right to move freely across the country, Mr Edun said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES. Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution guarantees this right. Only a lawnot a governors pronouncementcan restrict it. He said the comments could paint Edo as unsafe and discourage visitors and investors. Edo is a peaceful and hospitable state. Its people are welcoming. Statements like this are unfortunate and unhelpful, Mr Edun added. One of Nigerias foremost pharmacists and a pioneer of pharmaceutical journalism, Ifeanyi Atueyi, is dead. He died on 15 July at the age of 85, the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy announced in a statement shared with PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday. The statement, dated 21 July, was signed by Lere Baale, President of the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy, and Lekan Asuni, Secretary-General. Both are professors and members of the Academys National Executive Committee. Describing the late pharmacist as a beacon of professional integrity, the Academy said Mr Atueyis passing marked the end of an era in Nigerias healthcare and pharmaceutical sector. At a time when the pharmacy profession lacked visibility and professional media engagement, he boldly pioneered a platform that illuminated the profession and connected stakeholders. He chronicled its growth with unwavering consistency and excellence. For over four decades, Pharmanews became more than a publication; it became a movementa mirror reflecting the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of pharmacists, healthcare workers, and policymakers. At its helm was a man whose pen was dipped in wisdom, whose heart burned with purpose, and whose life exemplified the synergy of professionalism and divine calling, the statement added. Who was Ifeanyi Atueyi? Born on 1 October 1939, Mr Atueyi was the founder and publisher of Pharmanews, Nigerias foremost pharmaceutical and health journal, launched in 1979. Mr Atueyi was a passionate health communicator and Christian leader widely admired for integrating faith and professionalism in his career. He was a Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN), the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy (FNAPharm), and the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (FPCPharm). A former lecturer and lifelong mentor, Mr Atueyi used his platform to inspire excellence, ethical practice, and spiritual leadership. He authored several books that blended professional knowledge with Christian insight. A Knight of the Order of Saint Christopher (KSC), he often viewed professional spaces as opportunities for ministry. He lived what he preacheddiscipline, prayer, simplicity, and purpose, the Academy said. Mr Atueyi also institutionalised the tradition of honouring pharmacy elders, documenting their contributions through interviews, tributes, and essays. His efforts helped preserve the professions heritage while inspiring future generations. He was a committed patron of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS) and mentored several generations of young pharmacists, encouraging them to pursue their careers with humility, vision, and faith. Lasting legacy Despite his age, Mr Atueyi remained active until his final dayswriting, mentoring, attending conferences, and interacting with young professionals both online and in person. He received numerous national and international awards for his outstanding contributions to pharmacy, journalism, ethics, and nation-building. He is survived by his wife, Joan Atueyi, five children, and twelve grandchildren. Sir Atueyi has gone home to rest, but he has left footprints in print and hearts, the Academy said. His legacy is engraved in our institutions, ethics, standards, and spirits. The statement concluded with a prayer for his peaceful repose and a call on young professionals to be inspired by the values he lived. Adieu, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi. The pharmacy profession rises in your honour. Nigeria salutes your legacy. Heaven receives a faithful servant. Credit ratings agency Fitch Ratings has downgraded Ecobank Nigerias viability rating to f from ccc. A viability rating assesses a financial institutions intrinsic creditworthiness, including its standalone strength and capacity to weather economic downturns. The downgrade of the viability rating to f reflects Fitchs view that the bank has suffered a material capital shortfall, with its total capital adequacy ratio (CAR) being in breach of the 10% regulatory requirement since 2024 despite extensive regulatory forbearance, the organisation said in a rating action commentary on Tuesday. Fitch believes ENG will need to strengthen capitalisation through extraordinary capital support or will need to continue operating with regulatory forbearance regarding its material capital shortfall due to its weak profitability and extremely high credit concentrations and problem loans, it added. Fitch, however, affirmed the long-term issuer default rating (IDR) of Ecobank Nigeria at CCC. A long-term IDR measures an entitys relative vulnerability to default on its long-term financial obligations. A CCC rating indicates substantial credit risk. In June, S&P Global Ratings lowered the banks long-term IDR to CCC- from CCC. The agency stated that it expected Ecobank Nigeria to pursue additional measures to strengthen its capital adequacy, such as issuing additional $150 million in additional Tier 1 (AT1) instruments. If the bank receives the capital injection from its parent within the next couple of months, we anticipate that it will no longer be in breach of the minimum CAR, S&P Global Ratings said at the time. On 9 July, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, the parent company, announced the launch of $250 million AT1 qualifying instruments via a private placement of contingent convertible notes. Fitch also lowered Ecobank Nigerias shareholder support rating (SSR) to no support from f. An SSR indicates the possibility of an entity receiving extraordinary support from its shareholders in the event of financial distress. It noted that the affirmation of the long-term IDR despite the VR and SSR downgrades indicates the ratings agencys view that default risk has not materially increased. The organisation warned that default remains a real possibility, considering the significant capital shortfall and the risk of deposit withdrawals given the banks modest foreign-currency liquidity. However, despite these risks, Fitch believes the bank has sufficient liquidity to continue servicing its obligations, including the remaining USD150 million Eurobond payment due in February 2026, Fitch stated. The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has recorded a total of 3,833 Inmates on Death Row (IDR) across custodial centres in the country, out of a national inmate population of 81,558. Deputy Controller Abubakar Umar, the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja. Mr Umar denied the recent media reports by some online platforms that Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos states have the highest numbers of IDR with a total of 1,300, 1,250 and 2,055 respectively. He said that the latest statistics by the NCoS show that Ogun, Rivers, Enugu, Lagos, and Delta states have the highest number of inmates sentenced to death. He also said that Osun, Ebonyi, Oyo, Kogi, and Anambra states recorded the lowest figures in the same category. He added that Ogun State tops the list with 568 death row inmates, followed by Rivers with 504, Enugu with 328, Lagos with 314, and Delta with 256. At the lower end, he noted that Osun State currently had no death row inmates, while Ebonyi and Oyo States have two each, Kogi three, and Anambra four. He explained that the disparities may be linked to varying crime rates, judicial processes, and the administrative actions of state governments, particularly the signing of death warrants or approval of clemency requests. The SPRO highlighted that the management of inmates on death row presents serious challenges for the Service, especially in terms of congestion and financial pressure on the federal government. Mr Umar, however, said that the Service classified inmates based on their legal status, hence, inmates were classified as Awaiting Trial, Short-term convicts, long-term convicts, lifers, inmates on death row, debtors, female, juveniles among others. As at Tuesday, 22 July 2025, death row inmates are 3,833 nationwide which make up about five per cent of the entire prison population. Out of this number, 3,754 are males while 79 are females. Also, out of the entire inmate population, 24,252 inmates are convicted nationwide which is 29 per cent. Out of this number, 23,725 are male while 457 are female. Those awaiting trials nationwide amount to 53,473 inmates which comprise 52,066 males and 1,407 females. This is about 66 per cent. This brings to the total of 81, 558 inmates in custody across the various custodial centres in the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT), he said. Asked to provide the numbers of hangmen that the service has, Mr Umar declined comment. He said that many state governments set up prerogatives of mercy committees to review convicted cases occasionally. He said many inmates on death row were benefitting from such exercises, and were contributing meaningfully to society. He, however, appealed that the public know that the NCoS was functionally engaging inmates on death row through educational programmes and vocational training. The service doesnt allow them to wallow endlessly under the toga of death sentence, he maintained. (NAN) Four more senators of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Their defection letters were read separately on the floor of the chamber by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, during Wednesdays plenary. The senators are Francis Fadahunsi (Osun), Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun), Akon Samson (Akwa-Ibom) and Aniekan Bassey (Akwa-Ibom). The National Secretary of the APC, Ajibola Basiru, Chris Ngige, and some APC members in the House of Representatives were allowed to attend the proceedings. With the defection of the four senators from Osun and Akwa-Ibom, the number of APC senators is now 70, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has 28 senators. The senators of the Labour Party (LP), five, Social Democratic Party (SDP), two, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), one, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), one, while two seats are still vacant. (NAN) A central aim of the Trump administration is to create reciprocal trade with the nations of the world. President Donald Trump took another step toward doing just that as he announced a landmark trade deal with Indonesia. This agreement will provide Americans with unprecedented market access to this southeast Asian nation unlocking breakthroughs for Americas manufacturing, agriculture, and digital sectors, according to the White House. Under this deal, Indonesia will pay the United States a reciprocal tariff rate of 19 percent. Indonesia committed to eliminating tariff barriers, on a preferential basis, on over 99 percent of U.S. products exported to Indonesia across all sectors. This includes agricultural products, health products, seafood, information and communications technology, automotive products, and chemicals. This will create market access opportunities for the full range of U.S. exports, supporting high-quality American jobs. Indonesia has also committed to address and prevent barriers to U.S. agricultural products in the Indonesian market. The United States and Indonesia will negotiate rules of origin, which are criteria used to determine the national source of a product. They help identify where a product was made and ensure that trade agreements benefit the countries involved and not third countries. The United States and Indonesia will finalize commitments on digital trade, services, and investment. This includes Indonesias commitment to provide certainty regarding the ability to move personal data out of its territory to the United States. Indonesia has committed to join the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity and take actions to address global excess capacity in the steel sector and its impacts. The United States and Indonesia are committed to strengthening cooperation to increase supply chain resilience. This includes addressing duty evasion and cooperating on export controls and investment security. Indonesia will remove restrictions on exports to the United States for all industrial commodities, including critical minerals. Indonesia has committed to adopt and implement a forced labor import ban and remove provisions that restrict workers and unions from exercising freedom of association and collective bargaining rights. President Trump has delivered a forward-looking and tough trade deal that will benefit American workers, exporters, farmers, and digital innovators. This agreement is what winning looks and will feel like for all Americans, noted the White House. The trade deal with Indonesia shows that America can defend its domestic production and strengthen its defense industrial base while obtaining expansive market access with its trading partners. Another wave of defections has struck the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as three members of the House of Representatives have formally dumped the party for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The lawmakers Taofeek Abimbola (Osun), Omirin Emmanuel (Osun), and Marcus Onubun (Edo)- announced their defection during Wednesdays plenary session, with Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, reading their letters to the members of the House. Each defector cited internal crises and protracted legal battles within the PDP as the primary reasons for their exit. Their announcements were immediately met with cheers and applause from several lawmakers, particularly from the APC bench, who rose to welcome them with open arms. This fresh round of defections comes barely 24 hours after another PDP lawmaker, Mark Esset, from Akwa Ibom State, also dumped the party for the APC. Mr Esset, who represents the Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency and chairs the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations, had on Tuesday announced his defection during a plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. Like the other before him, he blamed the persistent internal crisis within the PDP for his decision to exit. READ ALSO: Four PDP senators defect to APC His move adds to the exodus of PDP members from Akwa Ibom, a state long considered a stronghold of the party. Three weeks earlier, seven lawmakers from the statesix from the PDP and one from the Young Progressives Party (YPP), also defected to the APC. The lawmakers included Unyime Idem, Esin Etim, Ekpo Asuquo, Uduak Odudoh, Okpolupm Etteh, and Okon Bassey, among others. The APC has been the major beneficiary of these shifts, consolidating its grip on legislative dominance at the federal and state levels. Al Jazeera Media Network has called upon the global journalistic community, press freedom organisations, and relevant legal bodies to take decisive action to halt the forced starvation and crimes against journalists and media professionals in Gaza. On Wednesday, the network said Israeli bombardment and the systematic destruction of the nearly two million people of Gaza have pushed an entire population to the brink of survival. Journalists in Gaza face extreme, often fatal, risks as they try to cover the war, including relentless Israeli airstrikes, the destruction of most of the territorys infrastructure, the forced displacement of 90 per cent of Gazas population, trauma, and widespread famine, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The journalists on the ground, who have courageously reported on this ongoing genocide, have risked their lives and the safety of their families to shed light on these atrocities. However, they now find themselves fighting for their survival, Al Jazeera said in a statement. On Tuesday, the UN human rights office said more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the Gaza Strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor. Experts also said the Palestinian territory is at risk of famine because of Israels blockade and nearly two-year offensive. A breakdown of law and order has led to widespread looting and contributed to chaos and violence around aid deliveries. On 19 July, Al Jazeera journalists began posting heart-wrenching messages on social media, signalling that their capacity to continue was waning. One powerful post by Anas AlShariff, Al Jazeera Arabic channel correspondent in Gaza, stated, I havent stopped covering for a moment in 21 months, and today, I say it outrightAnd with indescribable pain. I am drowning in hunger, trembling in exhaustion, and resisting the fainting that follows me every moment Gaza is dying. And we die with it. As these brave journalists continue to document the harrowing realities in Gaza, they are often overlooked, reduced to mere informants rather than being acknowledged as witnesses to their own stories, Al Jazeera said. Commenting on the plight of journalists in Gaza, Mostefa Souag, Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network, stated, We owe it to the courageous journalists in Gaza to amplify their voices and put an end to the unbearable suffering they are enduring due to forced starvation and targeted killings by Israeli occupation forces. The journalistic community and the world bear an immense responsibility; it is our duty to raise our voices and mobilise all available means to support our colleagues in this noble profession. If we fail to act now, we risk a future where there may be no one left to tell our stories. Our inaction will be recorded in history as a monumental failure to protect our fellow journalists and a betrayal of the principles that every journalist strives to uphold, he added. Since October 2023, the Israeli occupation forces have killed five Al Jazeera journalists, Samer Abudaqqa, Hamza AlDahdouh, Ismael Al-Ghoul, Ahmed Al-Louh, and Hossam Shabat, and many of the family members of Al Jazeera and other journalists. The Israel-Gaza war has taken a catastrophic toll on Gazan journalists since Israel declared war on Hamas following its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. As of July 21, 2025, CPJs preliminary investigations showed that at least 186 journalists and media workers were among the tens of thousands killed in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and Lebanon since the war began, making it the deadliest period for journalists since CPJ began gathering data in 1992. CPJ said it is investigating more than 130 additional cases of potential journalist killings, arrests, and injuries, and damage to media offices and homes, cases that remain difficult to document and verify amid these harsh conditions and devastation. Since the war in Gaza started, journalists have been paying the highest price their lives for their reporting. Without protection, equipment, international presence, communications, or food and water, they are still doing their crucial jobs to tell the world the truth, said CPJ Chief Programmes Officer Carlos Martinez in New York. Every time a journalist is killed, injured, arrested, or forced into exile, we lose fragments of the truth. Those responsible for these casualties face dual trials: one under international law and another before historys unforgiving gaze. Governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress met with President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday ahead of the ruling partys National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for Thursday. The Chairman of the APCs Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma, told journalists after the Abuja meeting that the meeting was to strengthen the party and enhance its capacity to deliver good governance to Nigerians. Mr Uzodinma was coy about what Nigerians should expect from the NEC meeting. When asked whether any major decisions are expected at the meeting, he said, We cannot say what will happen until we get there tomorrow. It is unclear if the APC NEC will take a definite position on the zoning of the position of national chairman of the party following the recent resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje from the position. PREMIUM TIMES reported Mr Gandujes resignation, which he claimed was for health reasons. He has since assumed his new role as the chairperson of the board of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Although Mr Ganduje, former governor of Kano State, is from the North-west, the position of APC national chairman is expected to be zoned to the North-central. The position was originally zoned to the North-central, comprising Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Kogi and Kwara States. Until Mr Gandujes emergence as national chairman in August 2023, Abdullahi Adamu, a former governor of Nasarawa State, occupied the position. Mr Adamu and the then National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore, from Osun State, resigned presumably under pressure. Since then, APC faithful from the North-central have been angling for the position of national chairman to be reverted to the zone. Ali Dalori currently occupies it in an acting capacity. Mr Dalori was the partys deputy national chairman (North) before his appointment on 28 June. The North-central APC Forum had sued Mr Ganduje, INEC and the party, seeking the return of the position to the zone. The court, presided over by Inyang Ekwo, threw out the case in 2024. Gandujes possible replacement Already, names of some prominent figures from the zone have been bandied about in the media as a possible replacement for Mr Ganduje. They include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, a former governor of Nasarawa State; Tanko Al-Makura, Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance; Sani Musa, a former governor of Plateau State; and Joshua Dariye. Others mentioned are a former senator for Nasarawa North, Solomon Ewuga; a former National Chairman of the PDP, Barnabas Gemade; and a former APC national chairman aspirant, Mohammed Etsu. Mr Akume has since denied vying for the position. Like Mr Etsu, Messrs Al-Makura and Musa were chairmanship aspirants in 2022, but gave way to Mr Adamu, who was favoured by the then President Muhammadu Buhari, to emerge as the chairman. Special session for Buhari Apart from the possible replacement of Mr Ganduje, the NEC meeting may also hold a special session for Mr Buhari, the first president produced by the party. This is the first meeting of the organ of the party since the death of the former president on 13 July. Party changes NEC meeting venue Meanwhile, the National Working Committee (NWC) has changed the venue of the NEC meeting to the Presidential Villa. The APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, announced this in a terse statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja. Mr Morka said that the meeting, earlier planned to be held at the partys national secretariat on Blantyre Street, Wuse 2, Abuja, would now be held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa. READ ALSO: Four PDP senators defect to APC According to him, the change of the meeting venue was occasioned by some logistical reasons. Expected Attendees Among those expected at Thursdays meeting, according to section 12.3 of the APC Constitution, are President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, and their deputies, governors, and NWC members. No Caucus meeting The National Caucus meeting was expected to precede the NEC meeting, but it was allegedly put off by President Tinubu. Amnesty International (AI) Nigeria has written to the University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State, asking it to reverse the suspension of three students who were rusticated for protesting school fees hike last year. In a letter signed by its director, Isa Sanusi and addressed to the universitys Vice-Chancellor, Ayoade Adewale, a professor, the rights organisation also asked the university to desist from victimising the students. Amnesty International noted that the victimisation and rustication of the students violates their rights to educational development, freedom of expression and assembly. Amnesty international hereby draws the attention of the University of Ibadan that the freedom of expression and assembly are guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), international and regional human rights instruments, part of the letter reads. The rights can only be restricted if in the interests of national security, public safety, public order, public morality, public health or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. Amnesty International also called on the university to always ensure that justice, accountability and respect for human rights are upheld. Suspension PREMIUM TIMES had reported how the university suspended two of three students for four semesters after it accused them of gross misconduct for raising placards to protest a fee hike by the institution last year. The students already suspended are Ayodele Aduwo and Mide Gbadegesin. The third student, Nice Linus, is still facing the disciplinary committee and hasnt been suspended yet. The university accused them of disrupting the swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected Student Union executives on 13 May, 2024. The students maintained they had only raised placards that read FEE MUST FALL without chanting or leaving their positions. The students were removed from the venue and the ceremony continued. However, UI insisted their actions contravened the rules and regulations governing students conduct in the university. Amnesty International said the raising of placards against the increment of school fees remains within the students right to freedom of expression and assembly and does not fall within the allowable restrictions. A former minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has warned supporters of severe economic hardship if President Bola Tinubu is re-elected in 2027, telling them they have two choices vote out the president or die of hunger. Mr Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State, stated this on Wednesday while addressing his supporters in Port Harcourt, his first visit to his home state after joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a political platform adopted by the opposition coalition to challenge Mr Tinubus reelection bid. Road to 2027 Mr Amaechi, in 2023, aspired to succeed then-President Muhammadu Buhari, but lost at the party primary to Mr Tinubu, who later won in the general election. After losing at the primaries, Mr Amaechi became a vocal critic of President Tinubu and has repeatedly rated the presidents performance low, saying that Nigerians are hungry. Mr Amaechi is joining other prominent opposition figures in the country, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, to challenge Mr Tinubu in 2027. At a brief reception held to welcome him to the state, Mr Amaechi told supporters to have their eyes on 2027. To have your eyes on 2027, please go home and start registration. We would form a committee for local government by local government that will go from ward to ward to ascertain the number of people we have. A short video of the former minister addressing supporters is posted on Facebook. He told his supporters that Rivers is notorious for writing election results and warned that they must stop it to avoid being rigged. He further told his supporters to avoid telling the people that the results had already been written, emphasising that doing so would discourage people from coming out to vote out President Tinubu. The consequence, he said, would be dying of hunger. If you allowed them to rig you out, our state is notorious for writing results. We must stop them from writing results. They make noise after writing the results. Please go home now and start mobilising because these are the people who will come and vote. Let me tell you one bad thing that you should not do: when you said theyve already written the results, you discouraged voters from coming out to vote for the removal of the current government. If not, we would all die of hunger. Currently, Nigerians are complaining about President Tinubus first tenure. Imagine what his second tenure will be like. Then wed be dead and buried. People are dying every day, not from sickness, but from starvation, he said. He told the crowd he was looking for people who would work with him to confront those known to write election results in the state. He thanked the people for coming out to receive him, saying, they are bragging in Abuja that we have nobody anymore, that we are finished. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has uncovered and sealed a warehouse stocked with 88,560 litres of controlled chemicals, including sulphuric and nitric acid, used for explosives in Kano. The Director-General, NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this while briefing reporters at the facility on Wednesday in Kwakwachi, Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State. Mrs Adeyeye, represented by the Director of Investigation and Enforcement, NAFDAC, Martins Iluyomade, said the warehouse contained 60,000 litres of sulphuric acid at 90.5 per cent, and 28,560 litres of nitric acid at 68 per cent, alongside 330 empty jerricans whose contents had been dispensed to unknown persons. What we have seen here is mind-boggling, I dont think I have ever seen this quantity of concentrated nitric and sulphuric acid together in one place like this before, she said. The DG explained that the chemicals were discovered by vigilant NAFDAC officers, adding that upon arrival, only the warehouse manager, an employee, was found and arrested. The owner is not listed as a chemical marketer. We keep a database to monitor the importation, use, and disposal of such chemicals. These acids are controlled chemicals that are not to be handled by just anybody, she said. Mrs Adeyeye noted that importing such chemicals requires clearance from the National Security Adviser and permits, none of which the owner possessed. READ ALSO: NAFDAC warns Nigerians against use of recalled US supplements Permit and clearance are important because these chemicals are used to manufacture explosives, she said. The volume we have here is enough to destroy the whole of Kano if mishandled. According to her, the agency is currently interrogating the arrested warehouse manager to trace the owner, who is still at large. We will ensure that he is brought to justice. He needs to explain how these chemicals were imported, and who he was supplying them to. This is a serious national security issue, she lamented. Mrs Adeyeye assured that the chemicals would be destroyed properly in line with regulatory procedures to safeguard public safety. (NAN) The Nigerian Army said its troops of Operation FOREST SANITY III have killed several terrorists in a fighting patrol around Kebbi, Niger and Zamfara forests. The army disclosed this in a Facebook post on Wednesday. An intelligence source told PREMIUM TIMES that the troops acted on intel provided by locals in these areas. The fighting patrol, launched on 22 July, started from the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, cutting through Kaboro and Sangeko into Makuku and Dankolo in neighbouring Kebbi State. During the operation, the troops linked up with forces stationed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Rijau and Warari, in Niger State. The joint forces swiftly engaged armed terrorists in a fierce firefight, neutralising several [fighters] and destroying no fewer than 18 motorcycles. Motorcycles are a primary mode of transport for the insurgents and bandits. The troops also recovered several AK-47 rifles loaded with magazines, the army said. However, the operation was not without losses. One soldier lost his life in the encounter. A follow-up clearance operation on Tuesday, 23 July, led to additional recoveries of weapons and motorcycles believed to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists. Troops remain on high alert amid reports of terrorists regrouping, the Army noted. PREMIUM TIMES gathered that soldiers were cheered by locals in Rijau, Niger State, after the fierce encounter. The residents of Rijau witnessed a brazen bandits attack in the past week. The terrorists invaded the town, rustling cattle and abducting people. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised concerns over the worsening hunger and health situation in Gaza, warning that starvation and malnutrition-related deaths are increasing. Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva on Wednesday, the WHO Director General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, said Gazas 2.1 million residents are now facing a new killer in addition to ongoing conflicts. The 2.1 million people trapped in the war zone that is Gaza, are facing yet another killer on top of bombs and bullets: starvation, Mr Ghebreyesus said. We are now witnessing a deadly surge in malnutrition-related deaths. He noted that since 17 July, facilities offering treatment for severe acute malnutrition have run out of supplies. In 2025 alone, the organisation has documented 21 deaths of children under five caused by malnutrition. According to him, global acute malnutrition now exceeds 10 per cent, while over 20 per cent of screened pregnant and breastfeeding women are malnourished, often severely. The hunger crisis is being accelerated by the collapse of aid pipelines and restrictions on access, he said. Mr Ghebreyesus noted that 95 per cent of households in Gaza face severe water shortages, with daily access far below the minimum needed for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Collapse of aid delivery Mr Ghebreyesus said Gaza had no food deliveries for nearly 80 days, from early March to mid-May, due to a total blockade on humanitarian and commercial access. Although food deliveries have resumed intermittently, they remain inadequate for the population. Parents tell us their children cry themselves to sleep from hunger. Food distribution sites have become places of violence, he said. He added that between 27 May and 21 July, local health authorities reported that 1,026 people were killed while attempting to access food at distribution points. Nearly 90 per cent of the land in Gaza is now under evacuation orders or within militarised zones. The WHO chief also warned that Gazas health system is in collapse, with many hospitals no longer functioning due to repeated attacks and critical shortages. Hospitals, which are supposed to be safe havens, have regularly been attacked, and many are no longer functioning. Even those that are functioning are only operating at minimal capacity due to repeated attacks, shortages of fuel and medical supplies, and constrained access, he said. Attack on WHO personnel Mr Ghebreyesus revealed that on Monday, WHO personnel came under fire in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, where the organisations staff residence was also attacked. Israeli military entered the premises, forcing women and children to evacuate on foot amid active conflict. Male personnel and family members were handcuffed, stripped, and interrogated. One colleague remains in detention. We call for his immediate release. 32 people, including women and children, were evacuated to a WHO office bordering the conflict zone. Our main warehouse containing vital medicines and supplies was also severely damaged, Mr Ghebreyesus said. Compromised operations and call for protection He warned that the organisations presence and operations in Gaza have been compromised, threatening efforts to support the remaining health infrastructure. As the UNs lead health agency, WHOs operational presence in Gaza is further compromised, crippling efforts to sustain a collapsing health system and pushing survival further out of reach for more than two million people, he said. Despite this, he said the WHO and other UN agencies remain committed to staying in Gaza. He urged protection for UN personnel, health workers, and civilians. He said the WHO calls for the active protection of UN personnel and facilities, civilians, and health care, for the unimpeded flow of aid. Once again, we call for the unconditional release of the hostages, he said. Situation in Syria Mr Ghebreyesus also expressed concern about the situation in Syria, particularly in As-Sweida, where humanitarian access remains limited. He noted that the main hospital is overwhelmed, facing critical shortages of staff, electricity, and supplies. We are following events closely and are working to verify reports of attacks on health care, including attacks on health workers, patients, ambulances, and health facilities. Health care must never be a target. Health should always be protected, and safe, sustained humanitarian access in Gaza, Syria, and all humanitarian situations is critical, he said. The Police Command in Edo State has confirmed the killing of a police officer, Aminu Yusuf, a sergeant, reportedly shot dead by armed men while escorting an expatriate in Benin City. Moses Yamu, the commands spokesperson, disclosed that two suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack. Mr Yamu, a chief superintendent of police, said a manhunt is underway to apprehend other fleeing suspects. The incident was said to occur on 16 July along First East Circular Road in Benin City. According to sources, the slain officer, Mr Yusuf, was escorting a vehicle belonging to the expatriate after a cash withdrawal from a bank when they were ambushed by four armed men. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the team, fatally wounding the officer and fleeing with his AK-47 rifle. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by a doctor. Mr Yamu said security operatives have since intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects and recover the stolen weapon. The killing of the officer is happening about four months after 16 travellers were lynched in the state. The victims, said to be hunters travelling from Rivers State to Kano State for Sallah, were allegedly attacked by vigilante members and armed youths who stopped their truck, dragged them out one by one, beat them, and then set them ablaze after being labelled as kidnappers. Fourteen suspects were arrested by the police in connection with the lynching. In May this year, gunmen killed a woman in Ubuneke-Ivbiaro community in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo and abducted her husband. The security challenges in the oil-rich state have been compounded by high rates of cult violence and cult-related killings and the activities of deadly herders. (NAN) Fareed Zakaria Must Grant Nigeria a Right of Reply Her day of ridicule may be near. But in the circumstance of her latest duplicitous rant, the Federal Government of Nigeria should communicate a demand to RIGHT OF REPLY to CNNs Fareed Zakaria to debunk the latest stench Kemi just released like a fart. Reno Omokri will do a good job of this. Time to dispatch him is now! The way Kemi Badenoch is going around and about, shading Nigeria in the most unflattering fashion, you would wonder if the contest for British PM office is between her Conservative Party and Nigeria. I mean, where is the bile from this vilest form of reckless commentary coming from? Folorunso Fatai Adisa, a friend of mine, who is a resident student in the UK, cracked a joke sometime ago asking if there was a man in Nigeria who broke Kemis heart. I will now throw up some names who ought to have femi-ed and pampered Kemi but probably snubbed her? Femi Fani Kayode, Femi Adesina, Femi Akinwunmi. You should all explain why you did not FeKemi and save us this buccal horror. Because for me, this parroting of lies and fictional verbosity against the Nigerian nation is only fathomable from the ratiocination of a failed romance. Nigeria appears like a boyfriend who once jilted you or that you have jilted but cannot get over. But should she take it out on the whole country? I know there have been jokes and innuendos about Kemis disintegration of virtue, but within this haze of fury and disgust, lets crunch some data that scrutinise her angst and misrepresentations against immigrants. According to information from the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM), immigrants to the UK, particularly those from outside the EU, have contributed significantly to the British economy by paying more in taxes than they receive in benefits and public services, with estimates bordering on a positive net of around 4.6 billion. In a 12 February report of the Office for National Statistics, immigrants contribute approximately 83 billion to UKs economic output annually. And when you look at the number of educated Nigerians in the United Kingdom, from doctors to nurses and across various sectors of professional endeavour, you can imagine how much Nigerians contribute to the UK in societal impact. But how does attacking Nigeria add to Kemis leverage as an electoral asset for the Tories? Before 2024, approximate 270,768 were born in Nigeria and living in England and Wales. Those who identify their ethnicity as Nigerians were 271,390. This represents just 0.5 per cent of the entire UK population. So, of what value is denigrating Nigeria to Kemi? No matter how Kemi tries, therefore, shell never be WHITE and the real Brits know themselves. She can aim for office that ambition is within her rights but undermining the dignity of other races (and her own) reflect poorly on her. The ideal beauty in virtue is that ambition can drive us to aspire, but it should not be by presenting a whole race on a slab for slaughter. More so, Kemi ought not to weaponise her children in crass dishonesty for political gain. Why is it that rather than concentrate on a campaign strategy that positions her above the Labour Party, she has narrowed her campaign thrust to Nigeria and continues to lampoon immigrants like theyre parasitic without value. It is simple: The current anti-immigrant wave which propelled Donald Trump to office is what defines Kemis playbook. She is of the strong opinion that any candidate who can pillory immigrants will appeal to the sentiments of the white supremacist voting bloc, whose numbers are critical for ascension to office. And considering that about 52,000 Nigerians relocated to the UK in 2024, Kemi, being clever by half, found no issues with Pakistani, Bangladeshi or Indian immigrants. She elected to hang her own people, her own heritage, by the noose. Kemi is fulfilling, in perfect summation, the description of Edwin Louis Cole that the pattern of the prodigal is rebellion and ruin. Even as he ended the quote with repentance and restoration, I do not see that happening to Kemi. Shes a lost cause, especially as James Boswell aptly reinforces the myopia of wilful villains when he said, if a man is prodigal, he cannot be truly generous. We should therefore understand that Kemi Badenochs deliberate spin of falsehoods and her obsequious and servile, attention-seeking denigration of immigrants, many of who contribute to the growth of the UK, are indicative of a patronising, virtue-signalling to fit into a psycho-genocidal fiction, where immigrants are perceived as irritants and possess the nuisance reverse-value for campaign troll, preparatory to the policy of extinction. Unfortunately, however, no mater how she tries to disassemble the links to her heritage, this conservative wannabe-racists names are Olukemi Olufunto. Shes Yoruba from Nigeria and a daughter of immigrants. She was born in England, taken back to Nigeria, enjoyed Nigerias communal culture and warmth and did not return to the UK till she was 16. whoever has the responsibility as Kemis hairdresser and general in charge of her grooming should do a better job. It may seem no matter how they try, she looks numerous years past her real age. No matter how Kemi tries, therefore, shell never be WHITE and the real Brits know themselves. She can aim for office that ambition is within her rights but undermining the dignity of other races (and her own) reflect poorly on her. The ideal beauty in virtue is that ambition can drive us to aspire, but it should not be by presenting a whole race on a slab for slaughter. More so, Kemi ought not to weaponise her children in crass dishonesty for political gain. And for this, history will not judge her kindly. And that office, she may never get. Her day of ridicule may be near. But in the circumstance of her latest duplicitous rant, the Federal Government of Nigeria should communicate a demand to RIGHT OF REPLY to CNNs Fareed Zakaria to debunk the latest stench Kemi just released like a fart. Reno Omokri will do a good job of this. Time to dispatch him is now! Finally, whoever has the responsibility as Kemis hairdresser and general in charge of her grooming should do a better job. It may seem no matter how they try, she looks numerous years past her real age. Akin Fadeyi is founder/executive director, Akin Fadeyi Foundation. The young Buharis voice may have echoed through a room of Nigerias political elite, but its real impact lies beyond the event. It speaks to the power of parenting, storytelling, and belief. Whether or not one agrees with the poetic depiction of Buharis legacy, one cannot deny the emotional sincerity and intellectual clarity with which it was delivered. At the recent public presentation of the book, According to the President, by Mallam Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson, precisely on 9 July, a moment of unexpected eloquence and emotion stole the spotlight. Amidst a sea of statesmen and dignitaries including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd.), former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo, and a host of ministers and public figures a young boy, no older than nine, confidently approached the podium. Clad in a flowing white babanriga, he moved with the grace of royalty and the command of a seasoned orator. With the calm precision of someone far beyond his years, he adjusted the microphone, glanced at the press cameras, and began his speech: I am the Buhari in us, not just the man, but the meaning. He was a lion, not in his robe, but in his restraints. He walked like a whisper through a marketplace of noise, unshaken by apples, unburned by insults. He wore power like plain clothes, no embroidery, no excess, only weight. The hall fell silent. All eyes locked on the boy, mouths agape, stunned by the weight of his words and the measured cadence of his voice. He spoke, not just with eloquence, but with the conviction of one who believed deeply in what he said. He portrayed former President Muhammadu Buhari as a quiet but resolute leader a man of integrity, discipline, and restraint, who chose national interest over personal gain. His poetic tribute painted a portrait of a leader rarely seen in Nigerias often loud political landscape. What struck me most was not merely the childs elegance, stage presence, or mastery of language though all were impressive but the legacy he clearly inherited. This young boy, named after Muhammadu Buhari himself, is the son of Haruna Abdullahi, popularly known as Haruspice a name familiar to many in Nigerias political communication circles. For more than a decade, I have known Haruspice as a passionate and unwavering supporter of Buhari. Remarkably, his devotion wasnt born of appointment, patronage, or political favour. He held no official position under Buharis administration, yet he defended him with a fervour that sometimes even made close associates like me slightly uncomfortable particularly when the presidents decisions merited public scrutiny. Haruspice responded to criticism of Buhari with articulate, persuasive counter-narratives, grounded in loyalty and genuine conviction. His dedication culminated in the publication of The Buhari in Us, a book that presented Buhari as a symbol, a spirit, and a philosophy of governance grounded in simplicity, discipline, and service. As someone who has also admired Buhari from my university days and even penned an article about him titled, In Defence of Buhari as far back as 1990 I approached Haruspices book with both interest and critical scrutiny. I eventually published a reflective review titled, Image Repair Theory on The Buhari in Us, in which I analysed the book through the lens of the Image Repair Theory (IRT), a crisis communication framework often employed in public relations to defend reputations under threat. Haruspices work, I noted, masterfully employed IRT strategies such as denial, evasion of responsibility, reduction of offensiveness, and corrective action. His literary flair and persuasive rhetoric are undeniable. But I also pointed out inconsistencies and selective narrations that often accompany such deeply personal, emotionally charged tributes. I warned that while the book was a powerful defence of Buhari, it sometimes crossed into hagiography blurring the lines between fact and reverence. Nonetheless, Haruspice never wavered in his passion. It was, therefore, no surprise that he has groomed his son in the same school of thought, instilling in him the values, charm, and eloquence that marks his own public engagements. Just days after the book launch came the shocking news of President Buharis passing. Since then, both father and son have continued to pay emotional tributes to the departed across various platforms. Their social media pages have become digital archives of praise filled with videos, prayers, and reflections honouring the late leader. In one especially touching video posted shortly after Buharis death, the young boy appeared visibly heartbroken, yet composed. He spoke in English, interspersed with Arabic verses: Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajiun My heart is sullen and heavy over the loss of my hero, President Muhammadu Buhari Oh Allah, rest his soul and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus The boys tribute is not just moving it encapsulates a lineage of loyalty and respect passed down from father to son. In a society where political allegiances often shift with the winds of fortune, the constancy of Haruspice and his young sons admiration for Buhari is a poignant reminder that leadership, regardless of its complexities, can inspire enduring reverence. President Muhammadu Buhari was a man who sparked admiration and provoked criticism in equal measure. His legacy, like that of many leaders, is layered with achievements, missed opportunities, controversies, and convictions. Yet, in the eyes of some like Haruspice and his son he remains a symbol of quiet strength, national service, and moral restraint. The young Buharis voice may have echoed through a room of Nigerias political elite, but its real impact lies beyond the event. It speaks to the power of parenting, storytelling, and belief. Whether or not one agrees with the poetic depiction of Buharis legacy, one cannot deny the emotional sincerity and intellectual clarity with which it was delivered. In that childs voice, one heard not just a tribute to a leader, but a call for a nation to remember and perhaps rediscover the values of discipline, patriotism, and restraint. In an age of noisy leadership, the whisper of Muhammadu Buhari junior rang loud and true. Yushau A. Shuaib is the author of An Encounter with the Spymaster. Email: [email protected] The Jigawa State Government is setting its sights on a transformative leap in agricultural productivity, targeting yields of up to 10 tons per hectare through aggressive mechanization and irrigation-based farming. This was revealed by Governor Umar Namadi during a visit to his office at the Government House, Dutse by a delegation from Al-Yaseen Agricultural Company of Saudi Arabia. Mr Namadi restated Jigawa States commitment to revolutionising its agricultural sector. Welcoming the delegation, the governor said that agriculture remains the backbone of the states economy, employing 8590% of its people and contributing 46% to the GDP. We have the land; we have all the available resources that are needed for farming in Jigawa State. And with your expertise in irrigation, I am sure if we work together, we can achieve our goals, he said. The governor outlined key steps the state has already taken toward mechanised farmingincluding irrigation expansion, improved seed distribution, agronomic training, and a growing network of over 1,700 extension workers. So far so good, we are able to improve our yields in many crops, but we still have a long way to go. We have moved from the initial 2.5 tons per hectare to almost 4.5 tons per hectare. And we believe we can make it 8 or 10 tons per hectare. We have shallow water tableseven in desert parts of the state, water is accessible at just 7080 meters. Governor Namadi also said his government is currently revamping 10 strategic dams across the state and unlocking thousands of hectares of cultivable land. I am sure you have explored the Hadejia valley; there are still over 18,000 hectares of land that have not been tapped. Speaking earlier, the delegations team leader, Dr Shuaibu Abubakar commended the states proactive efforts in agriculture, describing them as unmatched in Nigeria. We have witnessed unprecedented efforts by the Jigawa State Government in promoting technology-driven agricultureefforts we have not seen replicated in any other state in Nigeria, he remarked. During our field visits, we observed the remarkable dedication of farmers across the state. We engaged with them directly, and they spoke highly of the governments supporthighlighting how it has enabled them to pursue and achieve their agricultural goals through timely facilitation and comprehensive assistance, he stated. Dr Abubakar further assured the governor of Al-Yaseens readiness to support Jigawas mechanisation drive and help realize its agricultural transformation ambition. ThisDay in a report published on Friday titled 25% of First Holdcos Shares Went to FGs Trustee, Not Otedola and aired on Arise TV had claimed that contrary to its earlier report suggesting that Mr. Femi Otedola, had increased his shares stake in FirstHoldco Plc to 40 per cent, from his current 15 per cent, emerging details have revealed that the shares were actually acquired by a trustee, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), acting under the aegis of the federal government. The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has denied reports suggesting that the Federal Government of Nigeria acquired a 25% stake in First Bank Holdings (First Holdco). The paper further claimed that the trustee, which was set up through the settlement being brokered by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, working with the Central Bank of Nigeria, facilitated the acquisition through a custodial arrangement. The outlet quoted a source familiar with the deliberations to have said: the shares are now with the trustee for the next two or three weeks when they will decide how to proceed and reach a strategic decision on what to do with the shares and also look at FBNs plan for capital raise to meet CBN requirement. Reacting to the report in a statement, the Attorney General denied the report describing it as inaccurate, misleading, resentful and malicious. In the statement signed by Kamarudeen Ogundele, the Special Assistant to the President on Communication and Publicity, office of the AGF, the office unequivocally stated that neither the Federal Government nor the Attorney Generals office participated in acquiring the shares in question. The circumstances surrounding the shareholding structure are distinct from any government involvement, Mr Ogundele stated. The AGFs office explained that a trustee set up by First Holdco, with the Central Bank of Nigeria approving Stanbic IBTC as a third-party overseer, is involved in the shareholding structure. Mr Ogundele urged the media to exercise restraint, professionalism and due diligence in their reporting to avoid violating the law. The denial comes amid scrutiny of FirstBanks operations and governance. The AGFs office reassured the public of its commitment to promoting the rule of law, justice, equity, accountability, transparency, and service to the nation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubus administration. PalmPay, a leading neobank and fintech platform focused on emerging markets, has been recognised in CNBC and Statistas 2025 Top 300 Fintech Companies in the World list. This marks the second year in a row that PalmPay has earned a place among the worlds most innovative and impactful financial technology firms. The selection is based on a rigorous evaluation of thousands of companies globally, assessing growth, innovation, market penetration, and impact. This years list includes a mix of global leaders including Revolut, Nubank and Ant Group alongside rising stars from high-growth markets, underscoring the growing influence of emerging-market fintechs like PalmPay. PalmPays inclusion reflects its continued momentum as one of Africas leading fintech platforms. With over 35 million registered users and up to 15 million transactions processed daily, the company offers a comprehensive suite of digital financial services tailored to the needs of underserved communities. In its main market, Nigeria, PalmPay operates as a full-service neobank, offering consumer financial services such as transfers, bill payments, credit, savings, and insurance all accessible through its user-friendly app and supported by a nationwide network of over one million agents and merchant partners. The company also provides POS and API-driven B2B solutions tailored to the needs of merchants and enterprise clients. To be recognised as one of the worlds top fintech companies by CNBC and Statista is a powerful affirmation of our mission to build a more inclusive financial system, said Sofia Zab, Founding Chief Marketing Officer at PalmPay. Through cutting-edge technology, deep local distribution, and a customer-first mindset, weve built Nigerias leading neobank. As we scale PalmPay to more emerging markets, including Tanzania and Bangladesh, our focus remains on closing financial access gaps for everyday consumers and businesses, while expanding the partner ecosystem that fuels our reach and impact. As part of its broader expansion strategy, PalmPay recently launched in Tanzania and Bangladesh through a smartphone device financing model that serves as an entry point to digital financial services. PalmPay is building a neobanking platform tailored to the realities of emerging markets, said Jiapei Yan, Group Chief Commercial Officer at PalmPay. We are creating the infrastructure for a connected digital economy where people and businesses can thrive through reliable, inclusive financial tools. This recognition from CNBC and Statista affirms our progress and also the scale of the opportunity ahead. As we expand across more emerging markets, we are committed to creating lasting value for our users, partners, and the communities we serve. PalmPays inclusion follows another major recognition earlier this year: the company ranked #2 overall and #1 in the financial services sector on the Financial Times Africas Fastest-Growing Companies 2025 list. The ranking, based on revenue growth between 2020 and 2023, highlighted PalmPays rapid scale and market traction across Africa. PalmPay currently operates in Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, and Bangladesh, and is expanding its presence across Africa and Asia through device financing, digital banking, and B2B payment services. Backed by a robust neobanking platform and a partnership-led approach, the company is committed to shaping the next chapter of inclusive financial growth. Jigawa State Government has announced compulsory verification of the genetic composition of individuals intending to get marriage across the state. The spokesperson to Governor Umar Namadi, Hamisu Gumel, in a statement on Wednesday, said the decision was reached at the of State Executive Council meeting chaired by the governor. Following a memorandum presented before the Council by Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the State Executive Council has approved the proposal for the introduction of compulsory genotype testing for all intending couples prior to marriage across Jigawa State. The Council approval forms part of the State Governments broader commitment to improving public health outcomes and addressing the growing concerns surrounding sickle cell disease (SCD) within the State communities, the statement said. It added that the Council has directed the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with Ministry of Health to initiate legislative actions on compulsory genotype testing for intending couples before marriage and present certified medical reports before obtaining marriage clearance from religious institutions, traditional authorities, and civil marriage registries in the State. The Council emphasises that this initiative is not meant to discourage marriage, but rather to empower citizens with the necessary health information to make responsible choices that ensure the well-being of their families. The Council has also formed a committee to ensure adequate sensitization across the state, the statement added. The committee has the state Commissioner of Justice as the Chairman. The members include the Commissioners of Information, Health and Women Affairs respectively. Other members are the Director-General, Invest Jigawa, Special Adviser on Ulama and the Special Adviser Chieftaincy Affairs as well as the representatives of Ulama, Imams and Sickle Cells Association. The representative of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government will serve as the secretary. Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima was at the Katsina State Governors Lodge in Asokoro on Wednesday evening to wish Governor Dikko Umaru Radda well and offer prayers. The visit came in the aftermath of a recent minor road accident involving Governor Radda along the DauraKatsina highway. The Vice President expressed his personal concern and joined others in thanking Almighty Allah for sparing Governor Raddas life and keeping him safe from harm. Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), led the gathering in a heartfelt prayer, asking Allah to continue protecting and strengthening Governor Radda: May Almighty Allah continue to shield you, strengthen you, and grant you long life and sound health as you carry out your duties in service of your people. We thank Him for His mercy and pray that such incidents never happen again. Mr Radda, who appeared in high spirits, deeply appreciated the visit. He described it as a warm gesture that reflects strong bonds of leadership and shared humanity beyond politics or protocol. This visit means a lot to me. It shows the values we hold dear as Nigerians compassion, unity, and solidarity, Governor Radda said. Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, spokesperson of the Katsina governor said the moment was marked by empathy, brotherhood, and prayers, as Vice President Shettima and his team stood by Governor Radda in a spirit of personal support and goodwill. The Vice President was accompanied by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; Deputy Chief of Staff (Office of the Vice President), Hassan Ibrahim Hadejia; and NAHCON Chairman Abdullahi Saleh Usman. Also present were the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruq Lawal Jobe, and the Katsina APC Public Relations Officer, Shamsu Sule Funtua. Borno State says its local governments cannot implement the 70,000 minimum wage because they are overstaffed. Therefore, the state government said it has directed the chairpersons of the councils to devise a workable solution for its implementation. It noted that Kano State, with 44 local councils, have only 30,000 local government workers, whereas Borno, with only 27 councils, has three times as many with 90,000 workers. The government stated that the process for implementing the new minimum wage stalled because of the unusually high number of staff, which was complicating payroll and minimum wage administration. Local governments are already overstretched, and the current staff level has become an obstacle to implementing the 70,000 minimum wage, Modu Alhaji, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, said in a statement on Monday. He explained that Maiduguri Metropolitan Councils monthly allocation from the federal government sometimes stood below 700 million, while it needs 778 million monthly to pay the minimum wage to its workers. The claim of a bloated payroll came despite the government conducting two verification exercises for council workers in 2020. According to a report on the exercises, out of the 71,558 staff on the list submitted to the verification committee, only 63,291 presented themselves for the exercise, out of which 56,806 were cleared for biometric capture. Kaka Mallam, who led the verification committee, had said the exercise saved the government 237 million monthly, reducing the salary wage bill of the 27 local governments from 1.1 billion to 965 million. Gov. Zulum speaks Speaking about the development, Governor Babagana Zulum asked the local government leaders to consult and produce a workable template for implementation. He, however, warned them against staff cuts. We are not in support of staff retrenchment at the local government level, as I direct you to institute a mechanism that will lead to the implementation of the minimum wage. I want to appeal to workers at the local government level to be patient. We are working closely with the 27 local governments to ensure the implementation of the minimum wage, Mr Zulum told the chairpersons, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Dauda Illiya. New minimum wage long overdue LG workers, NLC react Meanwhile, local government workers have reacted to the statement, asking the government to expedite action because the implementation of the minimum wage was long overdue. Some of the workers, who claimed they were still being paid as little as N10,000, said the salaries were not sustainable under the current economic reality. READ ALSO: Abducted Borno Catholic priest regains freedom Government is not serious. Forget about the 70,000 wage; are we even enjoying the 30,000 minimum wage? Let me tell you, even the 18,000 minimum is still not implemented in some local governments. They are just doing propaganda, a staff member of Bayo Local Government said while asking this reporter not to mention his name. We have waited since October last year. Verification has been conducted since 2020. Teachers were lucky; they got the minimum wage, said Chairman Umar in Biu. However, the Nigerian Labour Congress in the state commended the governor for his efforts in implementing the wage regime. Your Excellency, whenever we attend the national executive meetings, the national body is very much happy because primary school teachers are being paid 72,000 as minimum wage. Your Excellency, when I stood up during one of our meetings to announce that primary school teachers are being paid 72,000 in Borno State, I was applauded, and you were highly commended, said Yusuf Inuwa, the NLC chairperson. The Kwara State High Court in Ilorin heard Tuesday how the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) launched a probe of former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and uncovered N5.78 billion diverted during his administration. Seventh prosecution witness Stanley Ujilibo, who is an EFCC detective, shared insights into the probe at a hearing in the ongoing trial of the former governor and his co-defendant. A statement by the EFCC on Tuesday said the commission is prosecuting Mr Ahmed, who was Kwara State governor between 2011 and 2019, and his former Finance Commissioner, Ademola Banu, on 14 counts of criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds totalling N5.78 billion. Mr Ujilibo, who is an Assistant Commander with the EFCC and a member of the investigative team, said during Tuesdays hearing that the commission began its investigation following a petition dated 17 April 2024, from the Kwara State Director of Public Prosecution, Akande Ayoola, on behalf of the Attorney-General of the state. According to the witness, the petition alleged diversion of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) funds meant for educational infrastructure across the 16 local government areas of the state. Led in evidence by EFCC lawyer Rotimi Jacobs, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the EFCC wrote to UBEC requesting relevant documents. He said, in response to EFCCs request, UBECs Assistant Director, Hassan Abubakar, supplied project action plans and contractor information for 20132015. The EFCC also invited several officials for questioning, including a former SUBEB chairperson, Lanre Daibu; SUBEBs former Permanent Secretary, Musa Dasuki; Director of Physical Planning, Abdulsalam Olarewaju; a former Accountant-General of Kwara State, Suleiman Ishola; and former Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary, Benjamin Fatigun. Mr Ujilibo added that the commission traced the flow of UBEC funds using bank statements from Polaris and Guaranty Trust Bank, which held SUBEBs accounts. He said the defendants were invited, voluntarily made statements in the presence of their lawyers, and those statements were admitted into evidence without objection. Earlier on Tuesday, the sixth prosecution witness, Mr Ishola, who was the states Accountant-General of Kwara State between 2013 and 2019, told the court that, in 2015, the Mr Ahmed administration borrowed N1 billion from the UBEC matching grant to pay civil servant salaries and pensions. Mr Ishola said the vouchers authorising the borrowing were raised by officials of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). The witness, also led by prosecution lawyer Mr Jacobs, testified that neither of the two defendants personally authorised the disbursement or directly benefited from the borrowed funds. Mr Isholas testimony corroborated earlier testimony by Mr Daibu, former SUBEB chairman, who said the state government formally approved the use of the funds for salary payments. Following cross-examinations by defence counsel J.A. Mumini, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Gboyega Oyewole (SAN), representing Messrs Ahmed and Banu, respectively, Mr Ishola was discharged from the witness box. Trial judge Mahmud Abdulgafar adjourned further hearing until 16 and 17 October. Background The EFCC charged Messrs Ahmed and Banu on 14 counts of criminal breach of trust and misappropriation of public funds totalling N5.78 billion. The funds, earmarked for basic education under UBECs matching grant scheme, were allegedly diverted during Mr Ahmeds tenure as governor from 2011 to 2019. In October 2024, the two men were re-arraigned before Mr Abdulgafar following the transfer of the former trial judge, Evelyn Anyadike. They pleaded not guilty to all counts. Among other allegations, the EFCC accused them of illegally spending N1 billion from SUBEBs UBEC matching grant account in January 2015 to pay civil servant salaries funds that were meant for 2013 education projects. Another charge accused them of transferring nearly N1 billion from the same account in 2016 to repay loans, contrary to the UBEC Act and the states action plan. Mr Abdulgafar granted them bail in the sum of N100 million each, with two sureties one of whom must be a serving or retired permanent secretary. Key witness testimonies In December 2024, Abubakar Hassan, UBECs Assistant Director of Finance, testified that Mr Ahmeds administration diverted funds meant for 51 educational projects. He said many were unexecuted or abandoned. In February, Mr Hassan told the court that Kwara SUBEB illegally withdrew N1.8 billion from UBEC funds in February 2016, and that the funds were used for salaries instead of infrastructure projects. He said UBEC had to step in to loan N1 billion to cover staff costs. In March, another witness, Musa Dasuki, a former SUBEB Permanent Secretary, testified that the state government requested use of the 2013 UBEC grant to pay teachers, promising to repay the funds. Mr Dasuki said repayment never happened, leading to abandoned classrooms, toilets, and ICT centres across all 16 LGAs. Following their arrangements, EFCC maintains that the accused violated the UBEC Act and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act by misapplying education funds for unauthorised purposes. It said the infractions undermined UBECs objectives of providing universal access to basic education. A prosecution witness on Tuesday told the Federal High Court in Jos how a Plateau State-based cleric, Katung Jonas, allegedly used his religious platform and televised sermons to convince hundreds of people to invest in a cooperative scheme now at the centre of a N178 million fraud case. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Mr Jonas, a bishop, and his associate, Okewole Dayo, for allegedly defrauding investors through Covenant Fadama Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, a venture they led as chairman and secretary, respectively. A statement from the EFCC highlighting the development at Tuesdays hearing said both men are standing trial on 23 counts of obtaining money under false pretence to the tune of N178.8 million. Testifying before trial judge Sharon T. Ishaya, the first prosecution witness, Sulaiman Kwalla, said he and his wife were among thousands of victims who invested in the cooperative after watching advertisements aired on Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTV). According to him, the advertisements often followed Mr Jonass sermons and included direct appeals to viewers to invest. Based on the Bishops religious standing and the promise of a 10 percent monthly return, I was convinced it was a genuine investment, Mr Kwalla said during his examination by EFCC counsel, Ibrahim Buba. The witness told the court he paid N200,000 in his name and N100,000 on behalf of his wife, Halima Ibrahim Danyaro, into an account at Dadin Kowa Microfinance Bank, which was reportedly affiliated with the cooperative. He said he received official receipts for both payments. However, he said no returns were received, and by the end of the first month, other investors had also begun expressing concern. When I went to the cooperatives office on Secretariat Road, Jos, there was already a crowd of disappointed investors, Mr Kwalla said. He narrated how, on 4 June 2012, the situation escalated when angry investors stormed the cooperatives premises, prompting police intervention. Mr Dayo, the second defendant, was evacuated by officers and later detained at the Plateau State Police Command. Harvest of excuses, failed recovery efforts According to Mr Kwalla, a reconciliation meeting involving the police, investors, and Mr Jonas followed. During the meeting, Mr Jonas allegedly admitted to being the chairman of the cooperative and committed to repaying the funds, beginning in July 2012. But that promise, he said, was never fulfilled. At every turn, there were new excuses, he said. Eventually, Bishop Katung introduced Lanre Global Concept, a firm he claimed would help recover our funds from abroad. Later, he said the money had been invested in forex trading under a new scheme called Global View. None of these promises materialised. The witness said that after several failed attempts to recover their money, the victims, through their lawyer, Solomon Dalung, petitioned the EFCC. He said the petition detailed claims of fraud involving over N8 billion and affecting no fewer than 44,000 investors. Mr Kwalla told the court that while he eventually received a refund of his 200,000 investment, his wifes N100,000 remains unpaid. When the prosecution attempted to tender the payment receipts and a copy of the petition submitted to the EFCC, defence counsel C.I. Nwogbo and G.G. Achi objected. They argued that the receipt issued in Mrs Danyaros name was inadmissible since she was not in court to testify. They also challenged the admissibility of the petition on the grounds that it lacked proper certification, as required by Section 104 of the Evidence Act and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). But Mr Buba, the prosecution counsel, countered that the receipt was valid since it was issued by the cooperative and related directly to the charge of obtaining money under false pretence. He further argued that the petition was an original document and therefore did not require certification. The trial judge adjourned the matter until 23 July, for ruling on the admissibility of the documents and continuation of trial. The case underscores growing concerns around fraudulent financial schemes disguised as cooperative ventures, particularly those that leverage religious platforms to gain public trust. The EFCC has, in recent years, raised alarm over the proliferation of unregulated investment schemes operating under the guise of cooperative societies, often preying on low-income earners and retirees with promises of high returns. The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, ruled that former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam and his former Commissioner for Finance, Omadachi Oklobia, have a case to answer in the N3.1 billion charge against them. The judge, Peter Lifu, held in a ruling that the prosecution established a prima facie case against the defendants, warranting them to enter their defence. Mr Lifus ruling was on the no-case filed by Messrs Suswam and Oklobia after the prosecution the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) closed its case with nine witnesses and tendering documentary exhibits. The no-case submission filed by the defendants under section 302 and 303 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 sought the dismissal of the charges on the grounds that the prosecution failed to lead evidence establishing any criminal act against them. They urged the court to rule that they had no case to answer and should be acquitted without the need to enter defence. Upon perusing the evidence before the court, I am mindful to hold that the defendants have some explanation to offer in the interest of fair hearing, Mr Lifu ruled on Wednesday. The prosecution has placed before the court legally admissible evidence linking the two defendants to the allegations. They need to throw some light on the allegations because a prima face case has been established against them. The defendants no-case submission is refused, and they are called upon to open their defence. The judge adjourned the matter until 22 and 26 September for the defendants to open and possibly close their case. Mr Suswam served as Benue State governor from 2007 to 2015 and went on to serve one term as the Senator representing Benue North-East Senatorial District. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that he and Mr Oklobia are standing trial on 11 counts of conspiracy, money laundering and criminal breach of trust involving N3.1 billion belonging to Benue State. In the case, which has been in court since 2015, the prosecution accused the defendants of diverting the money from the proceeds from the sale of Benue State Government shares managed by the Benue State Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC). The EFCC also alleged that the defendants sold the shares through Elixir Securities Limited and Elixir Investment Partners Limited. At the hearing of the defendants no-case submission earlier this month, defence lawyers Chinedu Ogbozor (for Mr Suswam) and Paul Erokoro, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) (for Mr Oklobia), urged the court to discharge and acquit the defendants, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case against them. In response, lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, also a SAN, opposed the application, maintaining that the evidence on record sufficiently connected the defendants to the charge. Chequered history NAN recalls that the duo first arraigned before trial judge Ahmed Mohammed in November 2015. He withdrew from the case following a Sahara Reporters publication accusing him of receiving bribes to give Mr Suswam soft landing. The case was reassigned to another judge, Okon Abang. Mr Suswam protested reassignment of the case to Mr Abang. His legal team argued that Abang lacked jurisdiction to hear the case on the grounds that the Chief Judge lacked the power to reassign a part-heard case to a new judge. But in his ruling delivered on 30 September 2019, Mr Abang sustained the arguments put forward by the prosecution, who urged the judge to assume jurisdiction and order the defendants to be arraigned. Mr Abang, in dismissing Mr Suswams application, noted that he could not reverse the administrative decision of the Chief Judge, who re-assigned the case to him. READ ALSO: Benue assembly recalls seven suspended members Displeased with the decision, Mr Suswam appealed to the Court of Appeal seeking an order compelling the Chief Judge to withdraw the case from Mr Abang and return it to Justice Mohammed. While the legal battle over which judge should handle the case, the case was making progress before Mr Abang. Within four months of the commencement of the case before Mr Abang, the prosecution had called four witnesses, the same number of witnesses the prosecution was able to call in the four years that the case was before Mr Mohammed. On 19 February 2020, the Court of Appeal in Abuja gave a ruling returning the case to Mr Mohammed. Consequently, Mohammed began hearing of the case to the extent that the EFCC closed its prosecution. While the defendants were preparing to open their defence, Mr Mohammed was elevated to the Court of Appeal bench in 2023. With Mr Mohammeds elevation, the case was reassigned to Mr Lifu, prompting a fresh plea by the defendants. The defendants pleaded not guilty again, and the prosecution went on to open its case, calling nine witnesses to prove the charges against them. (NAN) A cholera outbreak has claimed at least 12 lives and left more than 230 others hospitalised in several Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Niger State. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outbreak was first detected on Sunday in the Shiroro Local Government Area. As of Wednesday, cases had spread to at least six LGAs, including Minna, Bosso, Shiroro, Magama, Bisa, and Munya. Healthcare officials said that 239 individuals had been affected and were currently receiving treatment at various primary healthcare centres in the impacted areas. In response, the state government had opened an isolation centre at the old wing of the Late Sen. Idris Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre in Minna. The Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Ibrahim Dangana, confirmed that a multi-sectoral response team had been deployed to curb the spread of the disease. READ ALSO: NHIA to produce branded drugs for better healthcare We have established treatment and isolation centres in the affected LGAs to contain the outbreak. Aggressive sensitisation campaigns are ongoing, targeting religious organisations like CAN and Islamic groups, as well as the eight emirates in the state, Mr Dangana said. He commended Governor Mohammed Bago for his swift intervention and also appreciated the support of donor agencies. Also speaking, the Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, Ibrahim Idris, identified Chanchaga, Minna, Bosso, and Shiroro as the worst-hit areas. (NAN) The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, on Tuesday inaugurated the first phase of the Qatar Sanabil Project, a comprehensive resettlement initiative featuring houses, a school, a clinic, and a shopping mall for banditry victims across the state. The initiative, in partnership with Qatar Charity, aims to restore dignity to communities devastated by over a decade of violence, kidnappings, and displacement. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Kaduna, Mr Sani described the event as one of the most consequential moments of his life. Standing amidst these newly completed homes, hand-in-hand with the brave families who have endured unimaginable loss, I make this declaration with conviction: this is the most consequential moment of my life not as a Senator, not as a Governor, but as a human being, he said. He stressed that the project represents more than infrastructure. What we commemorate today is not simply a ceremony. It is a solemn act of healing. A vow honoured. A covenant fulfilled, he stated. This is our way of telling every widow, every orphan, every displaced soul: You are not forgotten. You are seen. You are honoured, said Mr Sani. The governor also unveiled empowerment tools, including cargo motorcycles, tricycles, salon kits, grinding machines, and welding equipment to support economic rehabilitation for widows, displaced persons, and unemployed youth. We understand that sustainable rehabilitation must include pathways to productivity. True empowerment lies in enabling people to stand on their feet with pride and purpose, he added. Assuring the citizens that this was just the beginning, he announced that Phase 2 of the project would soon begin, bringing more homes, schools, clinics, and boreholes to affected communities. READ ALSO: Kaduna LGA to enforce enrollment into health insurance scheme before marriage Representing President Bola Tinubu at the event, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, affirmed the federal governments commitment to restoring law and order nationwide. Nigeria is in safe hands, and we will restore law and order. That is an assurance we are giving, Mr Ribadu said. President Tinubu praised the Kaduna Peace Model as a community-based approach to lasting peace, citing the reopening of the Birnin Gwari Market and the return of displaced farmers as signs of progress. We are wiping the tears of victims of extreme violence. We are giving everyone a space to belong and a sense of inclusion, Tinubu said. He also commended Qatar Charitys support and vowed to deliver tangible, impactful, and sustainable results to those affected. This fight against terrorism remains a top priority of this administration, he concluded. The Kaduna State Government has launched the Girl Effect Oya Campaign to intensify efforts against cervical cancer and adolescent malnutrition. The campaign, unveiled at the Gusau Institute in Kaduna, also marked the milestone of vaccinating 754,304 girls, aged nine to 14, against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the major cause of cervical cancer. Speaking at the event, the deputy governor, Hadiza Balarabe, represented by the Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Rabi Salisu, described the initiative as a call to action, a call to move, and a call to protect. She said the campaign, implemented by the UK-based Girl Effect, complements Kadunas ongoing HPV vaccination and adolescent health programmes, and seeks to engage communities in promoting early prevention and care. This is not just about vaccines and nutrition. It is about our collective duty to protect and empower the next generation of girls in Kaduna State, Mrs Balarabe said. According to her, the states HPV vaccination programme, which began in 2024, had so far reached over 754,000 adolescent girls, and efforts are being scaled up under Gov. Uba Sanis administration to expand access to vaccines and improve adolescent nutrition. No child should be lost to a disease we can prevent. Every girl in Kaduna deserves to grow up healthy, strong, and free from diseases we know how to stop, she added. Mr Balarabe commended the dedication of frontline health workers and said Kaduna had become a model in Northern Nigeria for integrating adolescent health into routine immunisation and social development strategies. She called on the stakeholders, including parents, teachers, religious and traditional leaders, to support the campaign by dispelling myths and promoting healthy practices in homes, schools, markets, and places of worship. The event was attended by health stakeholders, development partners, and civil society groups. (NAN) Despite widespread criticisms, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has defended his recent threats not to allow Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, to enter the South-south state without informing him. Mr Okpebholo spoke on Tuesday in Benin at the official inauguration of the newly revived Edo Line, a state-run transport company. The event was broadcast on Channels TV, a Lagos-based television station. Edo Line was established in 1968 but had not been functional since 2010, with some of its staff members redeployed to the Edo State Ministry of Transport. Remarks against Peter Obi During a political rally in Edo on Friday, Mr Okpebholo warned Mr Obi not to enter the state without notifying him or obtaining security clearance. The governor, a member of the APC, claimed Mr Obis recent visit to St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences, where he donated N15 million for the completion of projects in the school, triggered violence and the death of three persons. This message is for the man who claims he has no shishi, he said at the rally, apparently referring to Mr Obi, who often uses the slang to express his disdain for extravagance, particularly by politicians during campaigns. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance, the governor declared. Continuing, Mr Okpebholo said: Theres a new sheriff in town. He cannot just come into Edo without informing me. His security will not be guaranteed. If anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. Im not joking. The remarks have elicited criticisms from civil society groups, lawyers, politicians, and other Nigerians, with many asking the Edo governor to withdraw the comments and apologise to Mr Obi, a former governor of Anambra State. Ive no regrets But speaking on Tuesday, Mr Okpebholo said he has no regrets over the warning against Mr Obi. The governor defended his action, arguing that the directive to Mr Obi was advice and should not be misinterpreted as a threat. I am not supposed to talk much due to the rain. Even when they said I couldnt talk, but just one sentence, everyone was crying, Mr Okpebholo began, referring to the criticisms that trailed his remarks against Mr Obi. What I said was simply advice, dont come to Edo without telling me. My job is not only to work for Edo people, but my job is to save the lives of Edo citizens and visitors coming into Edo. If telling him (Peter Obi) to notify me of his coming as the chief security officer of the state is a crime, so be it, he said. I have no regrets about what I have said, and I repeat it: before you come into Edo State, notify me. It is not a threat. The governor claimed that before the 2024 governorship in Edo State, he had received a similar advice from the then commissioner of police in the state not to leave the airport and that his failure to heed the advice resulted in the death of his police orderly. I have advised the former governor of Anambra State, if he likes, let him take it. If he likes, let him dwell on social media. It does not concern me. I had a security report and advised the former governor of Anambra State to inform me whenever he is coming to Edo State, he said. Wike backs Okpebholo on remarks against Obi Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, backed Mr Okpebholo on the governors remarks against Mr Obi. Mr Wike, who performed the ceremony for the commissioning of the revived Edo Line, argued that the governor was right to insist on prior notice from Mr Obi for security reasons. Some people can harm anybody (like Obi) and then accuse the governor of being responsible because he knows a coalition member is coming. So governor, you are right, said the FCT minister, a former governor of Rivers State. The FCT minister claimed that, during his time as Rivers governor, Mr Obi obtained official clearance from him before entering the south-southern state. READ ALSO: Edo governor under fire for warning Peter Obi against entering state without permission When I was governor of Rivers State, when Peter Obi was coming to my state, he notified me, and I provided vehicles and logistics for him, because at that level, as a presidential candidate, anything that happens to him will be my fault, the minister said. All I am saying is, if you are coming, tell me because I am here to protect you. Turning to Mr Okpebholo, Mr Wike said: You didnt say, Dont come. But people play politics. They give people money to go on television and twist facts. Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State said that his state is committed to the emergence of a truly federal system and structure that is genuinely just, equitable, responsive, and dedicated to the development of not just the Niger Delta region but all parts of the federation. Governor Diri stated this on Saturday in Yenagoa at a public hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Punch newspaper reported. The state hosted the South-south zonal consultations on the constitutional amendment exercise that featured leaders from Bayelsa, Edo, and Delta States. Addressing leaders of the three states and the federal lawmakers, Mr Diri emphasised the need to correct historical injustices related to the inequitable allocation of resources, alongside the glaring disparities in the creation and distribution of local government areas, in the country. Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Monday Okpebholo of Edo States were represented at the event. Resource control, creation of new LGs At the event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo, presented Bayelsas position and called for the creation of 25 new local government areas in the state. The oil-rich Bayelsa currently has eight local government areas. If the request for 25 more is granted, the number will increase to 33. Justifying his demands, Mr Dambo, SAN, said the current eight local governments in the state are overstretched, with some comprising more than 150 communities. Mr Dambo also advocated for electoral system reforms to boost the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission and judicial reforms to enhance justice delivery. Additionally, he called for a restructured federation built on the principle of fiscal federalism and proposed that federating units should have complete control over natural resources within their boundaries and remit 40 per cent of generated revenue to the federal government. State police will strengthen the capacity of states to fight crime and provide adequate security, the commissioner told the gathering. INC demands the creation of two new Ijaw states At the public hearing, the Ijaw National Congress had called for the creation of two additional Ijaw states. Benjamin Okaba, the international president of the group, said the proposed states should be carved out from Edo, Delta, Ondo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, PREMIUM TIMES reported on Saturday. Mr Okaba proposed that the two states, Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers states, be carved out of Edo, Delta, Ondo, as well as Rivers and Akwa Ibom, respectively. We reaffirm our demand for the creation of two additional homogeneous Ijaw states: Toru-Ebe, comprising Ijaws in Delta, Edo, and Ondo, and Oil Rivers State, made up of Ijaws in Rivers and Akwa-Ibom. He, however, differed with the Bayelsa State Government on the number of additional local government areas that should be created for the state. While Mr Okaba demanded the creation of 33 additional local governments for the state, to bring the number to 41, the commissioner for justice demanded an additional 25 to bring the number to 33. The Nigerian Army Joint operation, Troops of 63 Brigade/ Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) have successfully arrested three suspected kidnappers in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. Iliyasu Bawa, a captain and the assistant director and public relations officer of the Nigerian Army, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Asaba. According to the statement, the suspects were tracked to their hideout following a tip-off. Mr Bawa said there was a shootout when the security operatives approached the suspects, resulting in one suspect, 31-year-old Justwill Brodeick, sustaining gunshot wounds. He said two other suspects, 29-year-old Olokepomu Kelvin and 22-year-old Oghenekaro Jonathan, were apprehended. According to him, the injured suspect is currently receiving medical attention, while the other two are in detention pending further investigation. The Commander, 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, Moronfolu Shonibare, a brigadier-general, commended the troops for their professionalism and diligence. He urged the public to continue providing credible information to support the military in maintaining peace and security in the Delta. Abduction for ransom has become one of the top crimes in many Nigerian cities. The police in Delta recently arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered N5 million, believed to be money paid as ransom to them. The arrest of the five suspects and the recovery of the N5 million came less than two weeks after the police arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping and armed robbery syndicate terrorising Ughelli, Warri, Agbarho, and Sapele areas of the state. The police had said they had recovered from one suspect a POS machine used to collect ransom payments. Last month, this newspaper reported how the police arrested three suspected members of an interstate kidnap syndicate in the state. Members of the syndicate, Mr Edafe said, operate in the South-south and South-east states of Delta, Rivers, Enugu, and Imo. He identified the suspects as Idris Yakubu, 21, from Kwara State; Bello Amodu, 40, from Sokoto State, and Umar Mohammed, 38, from Kebbi State. (NAN) Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says his administration is committed to resolving pension challenges through honest dialogue and inclusive decision-making. Mr Otti said this on Tuesday when the national leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) visited him in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State. He noted that resolving the pension challenges in the state required collaboration, deep reflection, and goodwill from all parties involved. He clarified that the backlog of pensions predates his administration but expressed his willingness to manage the situation. He said the exact figure of the pension backlog had remained unclear as pension obligations kept growing with ongoing retirements. He said his administration has the political will to solve the problem and expressed confidence in finding a workable solution. The governor recalled inviting the state NUP leaders to his office on assumption of office to begin talks on the pension crisis and how his administration secured N10 billion to offset part of the pension arrears based on amounts owed. According to him, pensioners owed N1 million or less were paid in full, while larger amounts received partial payments. Mr Otti noted that despite the intervention, the state NUP leaders misrepresented the facts and frustrated genuine efforts at reconciliation. Earlier, the National President of NUP, Godwin Abumisi, urged the governor to forgive the state chapter of the union and reopen discussions. Mr Abumisi said the document that the state leaders of NUP signed with the government concerning gratuity was signed in ignorance and should be set aside in good faith. Whatever document they signed with the state government concerning their gratuity was signed in ignorance. I am here to plead with you to discard that document. After they signed it, they reported to me in Abuja, and I said it was not done. We are not here today to argue whether they did it or not. I plead that you forgive them, they dont know what they are doing, he said. Mr Abumisi commended the governor for prioritising salaries, pensions, and infrastructure and described him as a star performer. Mr Otti immediately set up a negotiating team to revisit the state pension challenges, led by Godson Anucha, his special assistant on labour matters. Other members of the team include the Secretary to the Abia State Government, Kenneth Kalu, the Chief of Staff to Governor Otti, Caleb Ajagba, and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, as well as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Betty Emeka-Obasi. (NAN) A pressure group known as the All Igbo Youth Forum has warned that Igbo youths would boycott the 2027 general elections in Nigeria unless the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is released. The National President of the Forum, Chinedu Obilor, issued the threat at a news briefing held at the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Abia State Council, in Umuahia on Tuesday. Mr Obilor said the group shelved its planned protest over Mr Kanus continued incarceration after discussing it with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu. He said Mr Kalu assured the group that discussions with President Bola Tinubu on the IPOB leaders release were ongoing. We believe the president will listen to the cry of Ndigbo and release Kanu, he said. Mr Obilor said the forums position remains unchanged and that they cannot leave Mr Kanu and be talking about 2027 elections. He said the group would give the deputy speaker two more months to engage the president on Mr Kanus release. He said it was the groups resolve that he must take the demand for Mr Kanus release to the president urgently. If they fail, we will hold 10 10-million-man march to Abuja and dare them to jail all of us, he said. He wondered why other agitators and terror suspects were released, but Mr Kanu remained in custody. If they feel they will use Nnamdi Kanu to do politics, we will not agree. Well mobilise 10 million Igbo youths to march and tell the government we wont vote if Kanu is not released, Mr Obilor said. The group said President Tinubus administration excluded the South-east in recent political appointments, describing it as unacceptable. It spoke on the ongoing coalition by the opposition politicians, saying that any coalition that wont cede the presidential ticket to the south will not fly. It said the South supported the North for eight years under the late President Muhammadu Buhari and that the time was now ripe for equity. Background The IPOB leader, Mr Kanu, who is facing terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been in detention since he was repatriated to Nigeria from Kenya in June 2021 under controversial circumstances. IPOB is a group leading agitation for an independent state of Biafra, which it wants to be carved out from the South-east and some parts of the South-south of Nigeria. The Nigerian government has accused IPOB of being responsible for the insecurity and killings in the South-east, but the group has repeatedly denied the accusation. READ ALSO: Otti sets up committee to revisit disagreement over pension The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and several Igbo leaders, including governors, have requested Mr Kanus release. But the government has ignored their requests. Mr Kanu was first arrested in 2015 under the administration of then-President Muhammadu Buhari. The Court of Appeal, Abuja, on 13 October 2022, held that the IPOB leader was extraordinarily renditioned to Nigeria, and that the action was a flagrant violation of the countrys extradition treaty and also a breach of his fundamental human rights. The court, therefore, struck out the terrorism charges filed against Mr Kanu by the Nigerian government and ordered his release from the SSS facility. But the government refused to release the IPOB leader, insisting that he (Kanu) could be unavailable in subsequent court proceedings if released and that his release would cause insecurity in the South-east, where he comes from. The government, through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, later appealed the court ruling and subsequently obtained an order staying the execution of the court judgement at the Supreme Court. Delivering judgement on the appeal on 15 December 2023, the Supreme Court reversed the acquittal granted to Mr Kanu by the lower court and consequently ordered the continuation of his trial at the Federal High Court, Abuja. On 19 June, the Nigerian government closed its case against the IPOB leader after the 5th prosecution witness was led in evidence and cross-examined by Mr Kanus lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. (NAN) The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in Enugu State, Oguejiofor Ujam, says the university has been battling high electricity bills of at least N200 million monthly. Mr Ujam, a professor, disclosed this on Tuesday in Enugu at a press briefing to mark the institutions 54th convocation ceremony. One of the most pressing challenges confronting the university, and indeed many institutions across the nation, is the escalating cost of electricity. We are currently grappling with unsustainably high electricity bills, with monthly expenditures across the Nsukka, Enugu, and Ituku-Ozalla Campuses exceeding an alarming N200 million, he said. This financial burden significantly impacts our operational capacity and resource allocation. The vice-chancellor, however, said his administration had begun efforts to mitigate electricity costs and transition towards more sustainable energy sources. We are rigorously implementing energy-saving measures across all campuses, optimising our energy consumption patterns, and promoting energy-efficient practices among staff and students. More significantly, we are actively exploring and investing in alternative energy solutions, including solar and hybrid systems, he said. He added that the initiative was not essentially cost-saving, but geared towards ensuring a stable and uninterrupted power supply for research and learning. 167 bag first class as university graduates, 9,821 students Mr Ujam announced during the press briefing that 167 students of the university have bagged First Class Honours degrees in various disciplines. The acting vice-chancellor said 9,821 students would be awarded bachelors degrees and diplomas certificates from the university at the convocation ceremony billed to be held on Friday at the Nsukka Campus of the institution. He said that 3,485 students will be conferred with second-class upper degrees, 5,217 will receive second-class lower degrees, 739 will earn third-class degrees, and 33 will receive a pass. Mr Ujam added that 180 students will be conferred with unclassified degrees. Speaking on the postgraduate awards, the acting vice-chancellor said: We are also conferring 616 Doctor of Philosophy degrees, 1,101 Master of Science degrees, 133 Master of Business Administration degrees, and 42 Postgraduate Diplomas. These figures reflect the hard work and resilience of our students, as well as the unwavering commitment of our faculty and staff. The acting vice-chancellor said the universitys postgraduate degrees and diplomas will be awarded to graduates the following day, on Saturday. Handing over Mr Ujam also announced that his six-month administration as the universitys acting vice-chancellor has come to an end, and he would hand over to a yet-to-be-elected substantive vice-chancellor of the institution in August. The acting vice-chancellor said he recorded several achievements as the head of the institution, citing road constructions and the establishment of the institutions Directorate of Grants and Scholarships, among others. Jeff Nweke, the Action Alliance candidate in the Anambra governorship election slated for 8 November, has expressed worry over what he described as a campaign of bitterness and mudslinging. Mr Nweke made the remark in a statement issued in Awka and made available to reporters on Monday. He advised other political parties and their candidates to base their campaigns on issues and eschew politics of bitterness and campaigns of calumny. He said that campaigns should be a period for candidates to market their programmes and convince the electorate to vote for them on the strength of their manifestos. According to him, campaigns should be issue-based, with candidates talking about their plans for the security of lives and property and how they intend to stop kidnappings and killings that have become commonplace in Anambra. Political campaigns should not be to malign or engage in character assassinations or unnecessary altercations with political opponents, but time to showcase our plans for the people. It is time to tell the people how you intend to tackle the problem of multiple taxation choking the masses, death and stagnating businesses, your plans for the education sector, welfare of the people and the states economy. These are the issues that ought to dominate our discourse and not name-calling. I am worried by the uncouth language that some persons used to react to a recent video of Governor Chukwuma Soludo dancing with his son to a new music. Soludo is a family man, there is nothing wrong with dancing with his son, so it is condemnable and detestable for anyone to ridicule the first family of the state because of that, he said. Mr Nweke said there was no need for all should resist and condemn anybody to take others to the cleaners in the name of politics. He said that his party has a very robust programme for rescuing Anambra from misrule and putting the state on the path of development and progress. He said that although Mr Soludo was doing his best, he (Nweke) had a different approach to addressing the governance challenges in Anambra. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission, 16 political parties would participate in the Anambra governorship election. Only two of the partiesthe African Action Congress and the National Rescue Movementnominated women as governorship candidates, while six parties nominated women as deputy governorship candidates. Meanwhile, political analysts are predicting a win for the incumbent Governor Soludo, who is running for a second term under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance. (NAN) Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, on Wednesday, reshuffled his cabinet, swapping three commissioners and swearing in six newly appointed ones. Mr Mbah also assigned portfolios to the new commissioners after Chizoba Ogbodo, a representative of the Ministry of Justice, administered the Oath of Office to them at the Government House in Enugu. The governor also swore in Godwin Anigbo as the Head of Service of Enugu State. The swearing-in ceremony came shortly after the Enugu State House of Assembly screened and confirmed the nominees. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Governor Mbah, last Thursday, submitted a list of the then-nominees to the state assembly for confirmation. The new and reshuffled commissioners The newly sworn-in commissioners are Benjamin Okoh (Works & Infrastructure), Benedett Okoli (Human Resources & Poverty Eradication), Franklin Ogbonna (Energy & Mineral Resources) and Samuel Ogbu-Nwobodo (Trade, Investment & Industry). Mr Ogbu-Nwobodo replaces Adaora Chukwu, who resigned from the position on Thursday. Two other new commissioners are Ben Collins Ndu Jr. (Water Resources) and George Ugwu (Health), who replaces Emmanuel Obi, who had been serving as health commissioner since 2015 under the administration of the then-Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Felix Nnamani was reassigned from the Ministry of Water Resources to the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Mr Nnamani replaces Chika Ugwuoke, who served as commissioner in the ministry until last week when the governor reportedly sacked him. Gerald Otiji was reassigned from Works to Housing, while Malachy Agbo was reassigned from the Ministry of Human Development and Poverty Eradication to the Ministry of Information. Mr Agbo replaces Aka Eze, who resigned as information commissioner to contest in a local government election for Udenu Local Government council, which he won. Hit the ground running During the swearing-in ceremony, Mr Mbah charged the appointees to hit the ground running, stressing that there would be no time to waste in his administration. In two years, the governor said his administration had steered high expectations among the people of the state and Nigerians in general and could not lower its performance across sectors. You would soon notice that here in Enugu, we have steered such a high expectation among our people. And every day, it feels as though we are presenting a scorecard. Therefore, you have to hit the ground running, as there will be no honeymoon period for you, unfortunately. There are humongous goals that we have outlined. And your various Ministries will play critical roles in accomplishing those goals, he said. Continuing, the governor told the new appointees: We set targets, we set goals, and we have key performance indicators, we have measurable indicators, hence, we have to measure and we have to constantly take analysis of where you are in respect to the set goals and what your results are. Those key performance indicators are key to us, and we will measure you based on these outcomes and results. Work as a team Mr Mbah asked the appointees to work as a team, in line with the established cultures of the administration. We also recognise teamwork champions. We do not encourage working in silos. You have to work as a team, we believe that by working as a team, we are able to accomplish our collective goals, he stated. You should not see your colleagues as rivals. They should actually complement your efforts instead. Well keep faith with our Oath of Office Mr Ogbu-Nwobodo, who spoke on behalf of the appointees, expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for finding them worthy of the responsibilities. He promised that he and his colleagues would not disappoint the governor. Since you chose to entrust us with this sacred duty as you make history on a daily basis, we will keep faith with our Oath of Office. We will be loyal and dedicated in the discharge of our duties, he said. Current number of commissioners Upon assumption of office in 2023, Mr Mbah swore in 20 commissioners. By 2024, the governor swore in Chimaobi Okorie as the commissioner for land, bringing the number of commissioners to 21. With the resignations of Mr Eze (Information) and Ms Chukwu (Trade, Investment & Industry), the number dropped to 19. The exit of two others Mr Obi ( Health) and Mr Ugwuoke (Labour & Employment) brought the number down to 17. However, with the swearing in of six new commissioners, the state now has 23 commissioners. In 2015, the then-Governor Ugwuanyi had 24 commissioners, but reduced the number to 20 during his second term. The Young Progressive Party (YPP) in Anambra State says it will revive socioeconomic activities in the state if its candidate is elected in the 8 November governorship election. Uzu Okagbue, the partys deputy governorship candidate in the election, made the promise on Sunday, 20 July, in the Umudioka community, Dunukofia and the Ogidi community in Idemili-North Local Government Areas of the Anambra. Today, I have the honour of joining my brothers and neighbours in Umudioka and Ogidi as both communities marked the cherished Mkpikpa and Nwafor cultural festivals. It is not a mere celebration, it is a vivid reminder of who we are; a people steeped in heritage, resilience, and pride. It is refreshing. It is a stirring reminder that, despite the shadows that now hover over our state, Anambras soul is alive and yearning to shine, Mr Okagbue said in a Facebook post. He said the insecurity in Anambra has not only shattered lives but has also crippled the states economy, muted social vitality, and cast fear over even the most sacred communal celebrations. Today, I witnessed cultural resilience. But I also saw the caution in the eyes of elders, the reduced crowds, the shortened processions, subtle yet telling signs of a state held hostage by fear of insecurity, he said. Mr Okagbue assured that if voted into power, the party would tackle insecurity to boost socio-economic activities in the state. He decried the increasing rate of armed robbery, kidnapping for ransom, cultism, among other crimes, which he said have reduced the peoples economic and social lives to the barest minimum. According to him, this is precisely why the YPP candidate, Paul Chukwuma and himself are not just committed to politics, but committed to purposeful leadership. A core plank of our vision is the restoration of security across Anambra, not for show, not for applause, but to liberate our communities, he said. The deputy governorship candidate said Anambra does not lack the potential to develop but is suffering from misdirection. We must fix leadership. We must restore safety. Only then can we truly unleash the cultural, economic, and human possibilities of this great state. The night may be long, but the morning is coming. A new dawn is possible. And joy, real shared sustainable joy is coming, he said. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that there were high rates of armed robbery, kidnapping, ritual killings and cult war in Anambra before the launch of Operation Udo Ga-Achi by Governor Soludos administration. The administration has clamped down on criminal gangs and prominent figures said to be behind ritual killings in the state. Campaign of bitterness and mudslinging Meanwhile, the Action Alliance governorship candidate, Jeff Nweke, has expressed worry over what he described as a campaign of bitterness and mudslinging in state politics. Political campaigns should not be to malign or engage in character assassinations or unnecessary altercations with political opponents, but time to showcase our plans for the people. It is time to tell the people how you intend to tackle the problem of multiple taxation choking the masses, death and stagnating businesses, your plans for the education sector, welfare of the people and the states economy. These are the issues that ought to dominate our discourse and not name-calling, Mr Nweke said in a statement on Monday. He said that his party has a very robust programme for rescuing Anambra from misrule and putting the state on the path of development and progress. He said that although Mr Soludo was doing his best, he (Nweke) had a different approach to addressing the governance challenges in Anambra. Political analysts are predicting a win for the incumbent Governor Soludo, who is running for a second term under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance. Ogun State workers have suspended their industrial action following an agreement with the state government on the implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). The strike, which began on 14 July, was called off on Tuesday after leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) signed a Memorandum of Action (MoA) with the state government. According to a joint statement by the unions on Tuesday, the agreement outlined timelines for clearing pension arrears and commencing monthly deductions into workers Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) starting from July. The labour unions said the decision to suspend the strike was influenced by interventions from traditional rulers, national labour executives, and labour veterans. They also cited constructive engagements with government officials and growing security concerns as factors that contributed to the resolution. In light of these developments and in consideration of the temporary agreements reached with the government, Organised Labour has resolved to suspend the strike. The agreement is taken as a demonstration of good faith and commitment by the state government, the NLC chairperson, Hameed Ademola, said. He assured workers that the unions would closely monitor compliance with the agreed terms and reiterated that no worker in the state or local government service would be victimised for participating in the strike. Highlights of the agreement In a separate MoA signed by Secretary to the State Government Olatokunbo Talabi, Mr Ademola, and JNC chairperson, Isa Olude, a Pension Fund Management Committee (PFMC) would be constituted within 48 hours to oversee the administration of the CPS, in line with Section 19(2) of the Pension Reform Law (2006). They said all efforts to address issues relating to Retirement Savings Accounts, Personal Identification Numbers, and enrolment processes will recommence immediately, and the committee will determine the timeline for completion. With effect from 2 July 2025, monthly employee contributions shall be deducted and added to the employers contribution. Both shall be remitted to the Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) of staff with the nominated Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) on a monthly basis. The remittance of outstanding deductions to the Pension Fund Administrators shall incorporate all outstanding deductions, along with the applicable Returns on Investment (ROI). The total outstanding contribution liability, including the required ROI, shall be funded and credited to the RSAs of employees in phases, Mr Talabi stated. Mr Talabi said the first phase of payment, covering deductions from July to July 2030, will commence immediately after the actuarial valuation exercise, which is expected to last between six and eight weeks. He explained that the second round of disbursements, scheduled for August 2026, will cover the period from July 2030 to July 2035. The remaining balance, covering the final seven years, will be paid annually thereafter. The agreement stipulates that the valuation must be completed by 30 September. If this deadline is not met, the Organised Labour and PFMC may propose a deferral of the CPS implementation to a date not later than 31 December. The government also pledged to introduce necessary legislation to guard against future defaults in pension remittances. The committee will have the authority to request and verify all information from the appointed actuary to ensure transparency. Also, the MOA stated that the files of workers who retired voluntarily before 2 July will be assessed individually, and no worker will face reprisals for participating in the strike. Mr Talabi said the administration expects the states workforce to reciprocate its gesture with continued loyalty, dedication, and efficiency in their duties. Workers express discontent Despite the agreement, some workers expressed dissatisfaction, accusing union leaders of ignoring the unresolved issue of the N70,000 national minimum wage, which has yet to be implemented more than seven months after its announcement. The union leadership has failed us because most of them are close to their retirement, said one worker who spoke to Premium Times anonymously. The pension issue is important, but what about our salaries? Prices are rising, but our wages havent changed. Another civil servant described the decision to suspend the strike as betrayal, noting that the strike presented a rare chance to demand both pensions and improved wages, but that opportunity was now lost. Despite their lamentations, the Union has requested the workers to resume work immediately, with a guarantee that no one will be victimised for joining the strike. As of press time, the Ogun State Government had not issued a statement clarifying when the new minimum wage would be implemented. Background In October 2024, Governor Dapo Abiodun approved N77,000 as the new minimum wage for the lowest-paid workers in Ogun State. The announcement followed a meeting between state officials, led by Mr Talabi, and the leadership of the NLC, TUC, and JNC. Mr Talabi said at the time that the directive was part of efforts to address the rising cost of living and that the governor had also encouraged the organised private sector to implement similar measures to improve the welfare of their workers. He noted that a monitoring team would be set up to ensure compliance. Mr Ademola welcomed the announcement, describing it as the highest minimum wage in the country and confirming that the new wage would not be taxed. TUCs Akeem Lasisi and JNCs Isa Olude also praised the move, noting that consequential adjustments for pensioners and other categories of staff would follow consultations. Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, said the wage approval demonstrated the state governments responsiveness and would boost morale among public workers. However, nearly a year after the announcement, implementation of the new wage remains stalled, and workers continue to press for clarity and action. An operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), simply identified as Jide, has been shot dead by gunmen suspected to be drug peddlers in Ondo State. He was reportedly shot during a raid on an apartment in the Itanla area of Ondo town on Tuesday. It was gathered that the team of NDLEA officers who were on a mission to recover hard drugs stored inside the ceiling of the apartment came under gunfire as they made efforts to seize the drugs. I guess the team got a tip that some drugs were stored inside the residential building at Itanla in Ondo. So, the officials came very early in a sting operation to bust the building, a source close to the NDLEA said. Immediately they came in, some of them entered the building to recover the exhibits while Officer Jide stood outside, mounting the sentry guard. But gunmen came from nowhere and opened fire on him, and he was shot in the neck. The officer was immediately rushed to the hospital, but the doctors on duty confirmed him dead on arrival. It is a very sad development. The spokesperson for the Ondo Command of the NDLEA, Adebayo Solomon, could not be reached for comment. READ ALSO: NHIA to produce branded drugs for better healthcare However, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident. He said that four suspects have already been arrested in connection with the crime, adding that a single-barrel gun was also recovered. Immediately it happened, we sent as reinforcement some of our officers down to the scene. We have been able to arrest four prime suspects who are now in our custody. We have also recovered a single barrel gun, and investigation is also ongoing in collaboration with the NDLEA to bring the perpetrators of the dastardly attack and killing to book, Mr Ayanlade said. Akkodis is joining forces with leading European partners to create innovative traffic management solutions that enhance sustainable urban mobility across Europe. VIENNA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Akkodis, a global digital engineering company and part of the Adecco Group, is proud to participate in the EU-funded FEDORA[1] project (Federation of Network Optimisation Services, Simulation Foresights, and Data Alchemy for Adaptable, Agile, Secure, and Resilient Multimodal Traffic Management). Coordinated by ERTICO ITS Europe, the initiative, officially launched on June 1st, brings together a strong consortium of institutions focused on solving today's pressing mobility challenges. Traffic management in the EU project FEDORA. Image credit: Akkodis The FEDORA project addresses key limitations in current traffic management systems, including a lack of orchestration when addressing multi-modal needs in structured integration protocols and in the incorporation of real-world traffic complexities. These gaps have led to suboptimal performance in managing mobility services and a divergence from the EU's sustainability targets. To tackle these challenges, FEDORA will develop a federated digital platform that enables advanced, real-time sensing and forecasting of transport supply and demand, supporting more efficient, sustainable movement of people and goods. At the operational level, FEDORA will offer a collaborative data space from which advanced data processes using interconnected service and tools can be developed. It will also focus on the development of advanced traffic management optimization services and a multi-modal simulation environment to create and assess future mobility scenarios. The approach will be validated through six thematic demonstrations in diverse contexts, including Vienna, the Basque Country, Reggio Emilia, Nicosia, Budapest, and Copenhagen, addressing varying urban and rural conditions, infrastructure maturity levels, and multimodal mobility service availability. The demonstration phase is set to start in summer 2026, with Vienna as the first pilot city. Akkodis brings proven expertise to FEDORA, having previously coordinated the Horizon 2020-funded MobiDataLab project, which advanced data sharing among mobility stakeholders across Europe. The methodologies and cloud-based service platform developed in MobiDataLab now serve as a foundation for FEDORA's data space and will be expanded as part of the new initiative. FEDORA is anticipated to deliver several outcomes that will significantly improve the transport network and traffic oversight. It aims to enhance the multimodal transport system, ensuring efficient door-to-door mobility for both passengers and goods. Additionally, the initiative will develop effective solutions for secure data sharing across different transport modes, fostering a dynamic and responsive management framework. "Akkodis is committed to leveraging its expertise in digital engineering to contribute to the success of the FEDORA project. By collaborating with ERTICO, the City of Vienna, and a strong network of partners, Akkodis aims to improve the efficiency of decarbonized transport solutions in complex environments, promoting their desirability in order to support the EU's vision for sustainable mobility," comments Tanguy Deren, Director of Innovation at Akkodis France. Contacts Anne Friedrich SVP, Global Head of Communications, Akkodis E. [email protected] Meldina Kurti Director, Business Partner Communications Germany, Akkodis E. [email protected] Maria Sole Quaglio External Communications Manager Germany, Akkodis E. [email protected] About Akkodis Akkodis is a global digital engineering company and Smart Industry leader. We enable clients to advance in their digital transformation with Consulting, Solutions, Talent, and Academy services. Headquartered in Switzerland and part of the Adecco Group, Akkodis is a trusted tech partner to the world's industries. We co-create and pioneer solutions that help to solve major challenges, from accelerating the clean energy transition and green mobility, to improving user and patient centricity. Empowered by a culture of inclusion and diversity, our 50,000 tech experts across 30 countries combine best-in-class technologies and cross industry knowledge to drive purposeful innovation for a more sustainable tomorrow. We are passionate about Engineering a Smarter Future Together. akkodis.com | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook| X About The Adecco Group The Adecco Group is the world's leading talent company. Our purpose is making the future work for everyone. Through our three global business units - Adecco, Akkodis and LHH - across 60 countries, we enable sustainable and lifelong employability for individuals, deliver digital and engineering solutions to power the Smart Industry transformation and empower organizations to optimize their workforces. The Adecco Group leads by example and is committed to an inclusive culture, fostering sustainable employability, and supporting resilient economies and communities. The Adecco Group AG is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland (ISIN: CH0012138605) and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ADEN). https://www.adeccogroup.com/ [1] This project has received funding from a Research and Innovation Action under Horizon Europe Framework with Grant Agreement No 101203465. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736167/Akkodis.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2598662/5426322/Akkodis_Logo.jpg SOURCE Akkodis MONTREAL, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - (NYSE: CAE) (TSX: CAE) Analysts and institutional investors are invited to virtually attend CAE's FY2026 Q1 financial results conference call on Wednesday, August 13, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). CAE will also hold its FY2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders at 11:00 a.m. ET on the same day in person and via a live webcast. Please see below for more details. FY2026 first quarter financial results Who: Calin Rovinescu, Chair of the board, Corporate Director Marc Parent, President and Chief Executive Officer Matthew Bromberg, Incoming President and Chief Executive Officer Nick Leontidis, Chief Operating Officer Constantino Malatesta, Interim Chief Financial Officer Andrew Arnovitz, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Enterprise Risk Management What: CAE's FY2026 Q1 financial results When: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 8:00 a.m. ET Webcast: The conference call will be available via a live audio webcast and a recording will be available following the event at www.cae.com/investors/. The conference call will also be available via telephone in North America by dialing 1-800-206-4400. International Toll-Free Access to the conference call is available this link. International participants who wish to join the call should click on the link, select the flag of the country where their phone number is registered, complete the form and press the button to submit. They will immediately receive a call on the number provided and will be joined to the conference on a muted line. Afterwards, press *1 to join the question queue. CAE's Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders 2025 Who: Calin Rovinescu, Chair of the board, Corporate Director Marc Parent, President and Chief Executive Officer Matthew Bromberg, Incoming President and Chief Executive Officer When: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. ET Where: The Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders will be held in person at 1250 Rene-Levesque Blvd W suite 3610 36th floor, Montreal, Quebec H3B 4W8 and via a live webcast. A recording will be available following the event at www.cae.com/investors/. About CAE At CAE, we exist to make the world safer. We deliver cutting-edge training, simulation, and critical operations solutions to prepare aviation professionals and defence forces for the moments that matter. Every day, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security personnel to perform at their best and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we're everywhere customers need us to be, with approximately 13,000 employees at around 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. For nearly 80 years, CAE has been at the forefront of innovation, consistently seeking to set the standard by delivering excellence in high-fidelity flight simulators and training solutions, while embedding sustainability at the heart of everything we do. By harnessing technology and enhancing human performance, we strive to be the trusted partner in advancing safety and mission readiness - today and tomorrow. Read our FY25 Global Annual Activity and Sustainability Report. CAE Contacts: General Media: Samantha Golinski, Vice President, Public Affairs & Global Communications, +1 438-805-5856, [email protected] Investor Relations: Andrew Arnovitz, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations and Enterprise Risk Management, +1-514-734-5760, [email protected] SOURCE CAE Inc. NEW YORK, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Expert Consumers has recognized QuickBooks as a leading AI bookkeeping solution in its latest 2025 software review. The report highlights QuickBooks for its integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies that simplify core accounting functions, streamline workflows, and improve financial accuracy for small to mid-sized businesses. QuickBooks , a product developed by Intuit, is widely known for providing cloud-based accounting software designed to help businesses manage expenses, track income, and maintain clean financial records. With the rollout of AI bookkeeping features and task-specific agents, the platform has introduced intelligent automation to previously manual processes. The Role of Bookkeeping in Business Operations Bookkeeping remains a foundational component of business operations. Accurate and timely financial records allow businesses to assess their performance, remain compliant with regulatory standards, and make informed decisions. Core tasks such as tracking income and expenses, reconciling bank accounts, and preparing financial reports are essential for maintaining operational transparency. Despite its importance, bookkeeping is often time-intensive and error-prone, especially for businesses managing their finances across disconnected platforms. According to market data cited by Intuit, small businesses use an average of 10 different digital tools to run their operations, many of which do not communicate with one another. This fragmentation increases the risk of data entry errors and inefficiencies. The emergence of AI-driven accounting tools addresses these gaps by automating repetitive bookkeeping tasks and enabling real-time financial insights. These tools improve accuracy, reduce administrative burden, and allow businesses to focus more on growth and strategy. QuickBooks and the Rise of AI-Powered Bookkeeping QuickBooks has introduced a new generation of intelligent features powered by the Intuit platform. These include AI agents designed to automate core accounting tasks such as categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, sending invoices, and managing payments. Among the most impactful innovations is Intuit Assist , a generative AI financial assistant embedded within all QuickBooks plans. Intuit Assist can generate invoice reminders, track payment statuses, and suggest actions based on user behavior. Businesses using these features report up to 12 hours saved per month in bookkeeping tasks, with invoice reminders accelerating payment collection by an average of five days. Task-Specific Agents The Accounting Agent, one of the latest QuickBooks features, automates bookkeeping and assists with reconciliation by categorizing transactions and identifying inconsistencies. It highlights items that require review, keeping financial records accurate and up to date. The Payments Agent monitors cash flow, supports timely invoicing, and helps manage payment collection. For businesses seeking operational continuity, these agents help reduce delays and minimize manual oversight. Supporting tools such as Smart Expense Organization, Receipt Capture, and Automagic AI Reconciliation further streamline financial management. Smart Expense Organization groups and categorizes expenses efficiently, while Receipt Capture allows users to digitize and organize receipts on the go. Automagic AI Reconciliation proactively imports bank statements and accelerates the month-end closing process by automatically matching records. QuickBooks also offers Anomaly Detection and Resolution, an AI-driven feature that scans for discrepancies and provides options for resolving them. Other tools include Auto-Match Transactions, which records and links vendor payments, and Automated Bookkeeping, which learns a business's categorization preferences and applies them going forward. Plan Tiers and Feature Access QuickBooks' AI bookkeeping features are available across four subscription tiers. All plans include access to Intuit Assist and 30 days of free live expert support, which provides setup guidance and product assistance. Integration with LiveTax, powered by TurboTax, allows businesses to move from bookkeeping to tax preparation without duplicating data. Simple Start is designed for early-stage businesses. It includes basic automation such as AI-driven categorization and invoicing, though AI agents are not included in this tier. is designed for early-stage businesses. It includes basic automation such as AI-driven categorization and invoicing, though AI agents are not included in this tier. Essentials builds on Simple Start by offering access to the Accounting Agent, Payments Agent, and Customer Hub, along with support for up to three users. builds on Simple Start by offering access to the Accounting Agent, Payments Agent, and Customer Hub, along with support for up to three users. Plus includes features from the Essentials plan and adds AI-powered reconciliation and the Customer Agent. It is configured for growing businesses that require deeper visibility into their operations and financial performance. includes features from the Essentials plan and adds AI-powered reconciliation and the Customer Agent. It is configured for growing businesses that require deeper visibility into their operations and financial performance. Advanced is tailored for established businesses and includes all AI agents, custom workflows, advanced reporting, and support for up to 25 users. It also introduces project management and finance-specific automation tools currently in beta. Each plan is designed to meet the needs of businesses at different growth stages while maintaining flexibility, accuracy, and control over bookkeeping processes. AI and the Future of Financial Management The inclusion of AI agents and automation within QuickBooks reflects a broader shift toward data-driven business management. With AI bookkeeping software, companies can reduce the administrative burden of financial tracking while improving transparency and speed in decision-making. As businesses increasingly seek centralized platforms to manage their operations, QuickBooks positions itself as a comprehensive solution for automating financial tasks without sacrificing oversight or customization. To read the full evaluation of QuickBooks' AI bookkeeping features , visit Expert Consumers . About Intuit: Intuit is the global financial technology platform that powers prosperity for the people and communities we serve. With approximately 100 million customers worldwide using products such as TurboTax , Credit Karma , QuickBooks and Mailchimp , we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to prosper. We never stop working to find new, innovative ways to make that possible. Please visit us at Intuit.com and find us on social for the latest information about Intuit and our products and services. About ExpertConsumers.org: Expert Consumers delivers news and insights on consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Expert Consumers may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided. SOURCE ExpertConsumers.org SAINT PAUL, Minn., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- All Energy Solar , founded in 2009, is headquartered in Minnesota and is recognized as one of the most experienced solar installers in the state. With teams of over 230 professionals , the company operates across six states: Minnesota , Wisconsin , Iowa , Illinois , New Hampshire , and Massachusetts . Their long-standing presence and commitment to clean energy have earned them a strong reputation, making them one of the best solar providers in Minnesota. They inspire hope for a sustainable future. All Energy Solar takes home the Silver award for best Residential Solar Provider in the Star Tribune's Minnesota's Best Readers' Choice Awards . Additionally, for the first time in history, the Bronze award for Best Commercial Solar Energy Provider is also presented to All Energy Solar, reaffirming their commitment to delivering top-quality solar solutions. With five years and counting, Minnesota's Best celebrates businesses that help make the state an exceptional place to live and work. Each year, Minnesotans nominate and vote for standout companies across a wide range of industries. It's the support and recognition from the community that has helped All Energy Solar emerge as the silver and bronze winner in the Solar Energy Provider categories, among nearly 400 amazing categories and over 750 winning businesses. Reflecting on the recognition, Ryan Buege, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, commented, "It's an honor to be named Minnesota's Best. This recognition reflects the trust of our customers, the dedication of our team, and the incredible support from the Twin Cities community. We're proud to help lead Minnesota toward a more sustainable future." This award comes during a landmark year for All Energy Solar, as the company celebrates its growth into South Dakota, North Dakota, and Nebraska . To date, the company has completed over 10,300 solar installations and has also earned multiple recognitions for its dedication and satisfactory services. With major milestones behind them and plenty of work still ahead, the team at All Energy Solar is energized by what's to come. As Buege puts it, "We're excited to help more of our neighbors take control of their energy with solar. As we grow, our mission stays the samemaking clean energy more accessible, one rooftop at a time." About All Energy Solar All Energy Solar Inc. provides a full-service solar energy integration experience for residential, commercial, agricultural, and government customers. With industry-leading certifications and full electrical and building licenses, All Energy Solar installs quality solar power systems with excellent customer service throughout the experience and after installation. www.allenergysolar.com . SOURCE All Energy Solar, Inc New partnerships in the United States and Canada offer testing closer to home CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- APV, an SPX FLOW brand, is expanding access to advanced Ultra High Temperature (UHT) testing across the Americas through its new pilot plant partnerships in southern California and Quebec, Canada. These sites offer food and beverage producers hands-on access to APV modular UHT systemsempowering customers to trial, validate and refine their products without needing to travel overseas. Until now, UHT testing had primarily been conducted in SPX FLOW's Innovation Centers across Europe and the Middle East. Strategically located to serve United States, Canadian and Latin American brands, these facilities support multiple heat treatment methods, including direct steam infusion, steam injection, tubular and plate heat exchangers, with flexible holding times to suit diverse product needs. Customers will also benefit from the company's complete support services, including trial planning, data analysis and scale-up consultation after testing. "Being able to test and refine products without international logistics gives these customers the opportunity to make faster decisions with tighter collaboration using solutions that are truly built around their unique processing needs," said Pranav Shah, Global Market Director for Dairy & Plant-Based Beverages at SPX FLOW. From dairy and plant-based drinks to sauces and clinical nutrition, UHT technology plays a vital role in delivering shelf stability, safety and product quality. These new facilities enable manufacturers to: Test real formulations and ingredients in small-scale production Compare a range of APV technologies: infusion, injection, tubular and plate thermal treatments Validate performance in flavor, texture, shelf life and nutrient retention Make data-driven decisions ahead of full-scale rollout This expansion mirrors SPX FLOW's successful UHT pilot installation in Dubai, where producers across the Middle East and Africa benefit from regional access to testing. To learn more or request a pilot test slot visit: https://www.info.spxflow.com/bring-recipes-to-life-in-north-american-innovation-centers About SPX FLOW, Inc. Based in Charlotte, N.C., SPX FLOW, Inc. improves the world through innovative and sustainable solutions. The company's product offering is concentrated in process technologies that perform mixing, blending, fluid handling, separation, thermal heat transfer and other activities that are integral to processes performed across a wide variety of nutrition, health, and industrial markets. SPX FLOW has operations in more than 25 countries and sales in more than 140 countries. To learn more about SPX FLOW, please visit www.spxflow.com . Media Contact: Melissa Buscher, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer [email protected] SOURCE SPX FLOW, INC. The Atlanta-based insurance provider, known for its philanthropic efforts, earns national recognition fueled by strong employee satisfaction ATLANTA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AssuranceAmerica, a fast-growing Atlanta-based insurance provider of auto and renters insurance, is proud to announce its recognition for the first time as a 2025 Financial Services Top Workplaces winner. Awarded by Energage, the Top Workplaces awards are based solely on employee feedback and AssuranceAmerica competed against over 200 other financial services organizations. The Top Workplaces program has a 19-year history of surveying and celebrating people-first organizations nationally across 60 regional markets. These awards celebrate organizations that have built people-first workplace cultures within their industry and identify them as employers of choice. With a team of over 400 Associates (employees) and over 8,000 independent agents across the country, AssuranceAmerica is reaping the benefits of investing in their team and their customers. AssuranceAmerica relocated their headquarters to the Galleria Complex in Atlanta, providing a more collaborative and innovative work environment, reaffirming the Company's commitment to Associate success. AssuranceAmerica also provides varying resources, programs and events to ensure Associate satisfaction, career development and engagement. Nearly 30% of AssuranceAmerica's Associates actively volunteer and serve charitable organizations as a part of the Company's purpose-driven mission. Leadership gives 16 hours of paid volunteer time off (VTO) annually to encourage community involvement. AssuranceAmerica's philanthropic efforts sets them apart from competitors by underscoring the Company's core values. The Company proudly stands behind "The Generous Policy," which provides 5% of its earnings to select nonprofits in support of fighting homelessness, totaling nearly $10 million since 2018. "At AssuranceAmerica, our culture is built on a deep commitment to the people we serve, including our Associates, agents and insured customers," said Scott Pitrone, President and Chief Executive Officer of AssuranceAmerica Corporation. "We believe that supporting our Associates in their professional growth and empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities go hand in hand. Being recognized as a Top Workplace in the Financial Services Industry is an honor we accept with pride." About AssuranceAmerica AssuranceAmerica is a privately held enterprise, currently operating in the auto and renters insurance space. Reported to be among the fastest growing insurance providers in the U.S., the Company is entering new segments within the property and casualty insurance business and expanding into new states. The Company strives to meet the needs of its independent agency partners and insured customers in ways that simplify their experiences and provides 5% of its profits to address homelessness in select cities where it operates. For further information about AssuranceAmerica, please visit www.assuranceamerica.com. Media Contact: Ashley Iaccarino, [email protected] SOURCE AssuranceAmerica Korean fried chicken meets Korea's fan-favorite soda in a bold new flavor pairing only on July 29 FORT LEE, N.J., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This National Wing Day, bb.q Chicken, Korea's Finest Fried Chicken, is turning up the heat with a MEGA DEAL for fans of Korean fried chicken across the U.S. On Tuesday, July 29, customers can enjoy an exclusive 15% off, plus free delivery (up to $12), on all orders placed through bb.q Chicken's official website and mobile app at participating locations. The offer is valid for one day only and is available nationwide. To redeem the offer, use promo code WING25 when placing your order on the bb.q Chicken website or app. Celebrate National Wing Day with Koreas Finest Fried Chicken (PRNewsfoto/bb.q Chicken) To sweeten the deal, bb.q Chicken is also giving away free Milkis, Korea's iconic creamy soda, with every order, exclusively at participating locations and while supplies last. Each participating store will give out up to 150 cans of Milkis on a first-come, first-served basis. "This is more than just a discount it's our biggest National Wing Day celebration yet," said Joseph Kim, CEO of bb.q Chicken USA. "We want our customers to enjoy the ultimate K-chicken experience, so we're combining bold flavor, unbeatable value, and a taste of Korea all in one day." This promotion follows bb.q Chicken's recent K-food takeover of Times Square, where the brand teamed up with Milkis on July 14 for "Spicy Meets Smooth: bb.q X Milkis" a large-scale pop-up event that served over 5,000 portions of chicken and Milkis in just four hours. Held in Duffy Square, the activation drew long lines and featured a special 15-second video ad on the iconic One Times Square billboard, spotlighting bb.q Chicken's signature flavors and celebrating the brand's 30th anniversary. With this National Wing Day Mega Deal, bb.q Chicken is giving both longtime fans and first-timers a perfect excuse to indulge in crispy, Korean-fried chicken wings, paired with a can of Milkis and delivered straight to the door. The 15% off and free delivery promotion on July 29 will be available at the following participating locations bb.q Chicken Mt. Laurel Township, NJ bb.q Chicken 3rd Ave, NY bb.q Chicken Aiea, HI bb.q Chicken Alhambra, CA bb.q Chicken Ann Arbor, MI bb.q Chicken Apple Park, CA bb.q Chicken Arboretum, NC bb.q Chicken Arlington Heights, IL bb.q Chicken Ashburn, VA bb.q Chicken Athens, GA bb.q Chicken Auburn North, AL bb.q Chicken Bayonne, NJ bb.q Chicken Blaine, MN bb.q Chicken Boylston, MA bb.q Chicken Buena Park, CA bb.q Chicken Buffalo Amherst, NY bb.q Chicken Buford, GA bb.q Chicken Caldwell, NJ bb.q Chicken Cambridge, MA bb.q Chicken Canyon Country, CA bb.q Chicken Carmel, IN bb.q Chicken Carytown, VA bb.q Chicken Castleton, IN bb.q Chicken Chino Hills, CA bb.q Chicken Cincinnati, OH bb.q Chicken Closter, NJ bb.q Chicken Clovis, CA bb.q Chicken Columbus, OH bb.q Chicken Cypress Village (Irvine), CA bb.q Chicken Davie, FL bb.q Chicken Decatur, GA bb.q Chicken Denton, TX bb.q Chicken Doraville, GA bb.q Chicken Dr. Phillips, FL bb.q Chicken Dublin, CA bb.q Chicken Duluth, GA bb.q Chicken East Colonial, FL bb.q Chicken Eastvale, CA bb.q Chicken Eden Prairie, MN bb.q Chicken Edinburg, TX bb.q Chicken Elkins Park, PA bb.q Chicken Englewood, NJ bb.q Chicken Falls Church, VA bb.q Chicken Fort Worth TCU, TX bb.q Chicken Fountain Valley, CA bb.q Chicken Fullerton, CA bb.q Chicken Garden Grove, CA bb.q Chicken Garfield, NJ bb.q Chicken Glendale, CA bb.q Chicken Grand Prairie, TX bb.q Chicken Greenville, SC bb.q Chicken H-Mart Arcadia, CA bb.q Chicken H-Mart Edison, NJ bb.q Chicken H-Mart Las Vegas, NV bb.q Chicken H-Mart Quincy, MA bb.q Chicken Irvine (Jamboree), CA bb.q Chicken Jamaica Plain, MA bb.q Chicken Johns Creek, GA bb.q Chicken Kahala, HI bb.q Chicken Katy, TX bb.q Chicken Kenmore, MA bb.q Chicken La Canada, CA bb.q Chicken LA Hollywood, CA bb.q Chicken LA Little Tokyo, CA bb.q Chicken Lakewood, CA bb.q Chicken Las Vegas Silverado Ranch, NV bb.q Chicken Las Vegas South Rainbow, NV bb.q Chicken Las Vegas, NV bb.q Chicken Levittown, NY bb.q Chicken Little Rock, AR bb.q Chicken Lotte Market Edison, NJ bb.q Chicken Lower Greenville, TX bb.q Chicken Maplewood, MN bb.q Chicken Marlton, NJ bb.q Chicken Milpitas, CA bb.q Chicken Mobile, AL bb.q Chicken Murphy, TX bb.q Chicken Newhall, CA bb.q Chicken North Park Plaza, CA bb.q Chicken North Quincy, MA bb.q Chicken Northdale, FL bb.q Chicken Northpark (Irvine), CA bb.q Chicken Northridge, CA bb.q Chicken NY K-Town, NY bb.q Chicken Oakland, CA bb.q Chicken OKC Northside, OK bb.q Chicken Olentangy Square, OH bb.q Chicken Palmdale, CA bb.q Chicken Park Slope, NY bb.q Chicken Pasadena, CA bb.q Chicken Peachtree Corners, GA bb.q Chicken Portland Downtown, OR bb.q Chicken Potomac Town Center, VA bb.q Chicken Quail Hill (Irvine), CA bb.q Chicken Redondo Beach, CA bb.q Chicken Richardson, TX bb.q Chicken Rochester, NY bb.q Chicken Rockville, MD bb.q Chicken Rolling Meadow, IL bb.q Chicken Rowland Heights, CA bb.q Chicken San Bruno, CA bb.q Chicken Sawtelle, CA bb.q Chicken Sorrento Valley, CA bb.q Chicken South Arlington, TX bb.q Chicken St.Paul, MN bb.q Chicken Sunnyvale, CA bb.q Chicken Suwanee, GA bb.q Chicken Tarzana, CA bb.q Chicken Temple City, CA bb.q Chicken Tysons, VA bb.q Chicken Uptown Minneapolis, MN bb.q Chicken Virginia Square, VA bb.q Chicken Vista, CA bb.q Chicken Waikiki, HI bb.q Chicken Walnut, CA bb.q Chicken Western Ave, CA bb.q Chicken Westheimer, TX bb.q Chicken Woodland Park, NJ bb.q Chicken Chicago Chinatown, IL bb.q Chicken Lincoln Park, IL bb.q Chicken Beaverton, OR bb.q Chicken Southeast Portland, OR bb.q Chicken Lynnwood, WA bb.q Chicken Tacoma Lakewood, WA About bb.q Chicken Established in 1995 as part of parent company Genesis BBQ, bb.q Chicken's mission is to always provide the most delicious premium chicken in the world, based on the belief that food is the gateway to all culture. bb.q (pronounced bee-bee-que) stands for Best of the Best Quality and serves as a promise to always make Korea's Finest Fried Chicken and other K-Food offerings at each location. The brand was recently recognized by Restaurant Business Magazine as one of the fastest growing chains in the U.S. and included in The Takeout's "11 Restaurant Chains to Watch in 2023." This year, bb.q was recognized by Yelp as the No. 2 fastest-growing brand in the restaurant sector and No. 7 overall across all categories. For more information on locations and franchise opportunities, please visit bbqchicken.com. SOURCE bb.q Chicken DUBAI, UAE, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dubai's residential real estate market continues to defy global headwinds, delivering another record-breaking performance in the first half of 2025. According to the newly released Shaping Skylines Q2 2025 Dubai Residential Real Estate Market Report by Betterhomes, total residential sales reached AED 151.8 billion, a 46% year-on-year increase in value and a 25% rise in transaction volumes, with 50,485 units sold. The report highlights Dubai's continued ascent as one of the world's most dynamic real estate destinations, supported by a growing population seeking Dubai homes for sale, investor-friendly legislation, and a robust development pipeline. Momentum Continues Across Segments Compared to Q1, residential sales grew 33% in value and 19% in volume, underlining strong market momentum. The prime residential segment recorded a new benchmark with 1,417 luxury transactions in Q2, a 67% quarter-on-quarter jump and a 113% increase year-on-year which confirms a rising global appeal of luxury off-plan property for sale in Dubai among ultra-high-net-worth buyers. "Q3 is shaping up to be an exciting phase for Dubai's property market," said Christopher Cina, Director of Sales at Betterhomes. "With around 20,000 new units already delivered and another 70,000 expected by year-end, the city is well-positioned to meet rising demand from investors and end-users alike." Supply Expands, Prices Hold Strong Dubai saw over 20,000 new units delivered in H1 2025, with Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) leading completions at 20%, followed by Sobha Hartland (11%) and Mohammed Bin Rashid City (8%). Looking ahead, over 200,000 new units are projected through 2027 reflecting developer confidence in Dubai's long-term growth. Despite the influx of supply, average property prices continue to rise, reaching AED 1,582 per square foot, a 6% increase from H2 2024 and up 3% from Q1 2025. Prices are now 18% higher year-on-year and 90% above the pandemic-era low of AED 833 per square foot. Investor Activity and Cash Deals on the Rise The report also revealed a strong resurgence in investor activity, with investors accounting for 58% of all transactions in Q2, up from 50% in Q1. Meanwhile, end-user activity dropped to 42%, as buyers sought rental income and capital appreciation in a high-demand market. Cash buyers dominated the market in Q2, representing 52% of transactions, up from 42% in Q1. Mortgage deals fell to 48%, indicating an increasingly liquid buyer base, driven by high-net-worth individuals and international investors seeking swift deal closures. Global Buyer Shifts Reflect Dubai's Expanding Reach The UK overtook India to become the leading buyer nationality in Q2, driven by a 56% quarterly surge in transactions. India and Pakistan retained second and third positions, respectively, while Poland made its debut in the top five. Notably, Russia dropped out of the top 10 for the first time, with Ireland climbing to sixth. As Dubai continues to draw global interest, particularly from European buyers, its property market stands firm as one of the most attractive and resilient investment destinations worldwide. SOURCE Betterhomes New Funding Opportunity Seeks Catalytic Solutions to Address Data Demand SAN DIEGO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cambiar Education , with support from the Walton Family Foundation, Bezos Family Foundation, and Lemnis, today announced the launch of the Thrive Big Ideas Challenge, a national competition designed to catalyze transformative solutions that empower students and caregivers with data to fuel student success. By collectively addressing the critical need for more - and actionable - information sharing with students and caregivers, the Thrive Challenge aims to profoundly boost student learning, ultimately giving them the agency to support their lifelong growth and shape their futures. The Thrive Challenge will award $100,000 grants, with a subset of grantees eligible for $250,000+ of follow-on funding, to organizations with groundbreaking ideas on how to provide students and/or caregivers with easy-to-obtain, meaningful, and actionable information about their student's K-12 education and development. This funding opportunity focuses on two distinct tracks: Student Track : Grantees that equip students with greater insight into their own data and ways students can use it to take action and make decisions. Caregiver Track : Grantees that equip parents and caregivers with innovative and scalable tools to better understand and support their children's learning journeys. To learn more and submit a big idea for consideration, visit Cambiar Thrive's application portal . Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2025. As technology advances and social isolation increases, demand for student data is growing. Recent reports indicate a troubling decline in youth engagement in the classroom.1 "Student agency - the ability to make choices about one's learning and take an active role in shaping educational experiences - is a critical component of engagement in learning. Yet, many students feel like they have no control over their learning."2 Arming students with their own data will initiate ways for them to take ownership of their learning, advancing the development of their agency and ability to thrive. Motivated to go beyond report cards and teacher conferences, parents and caregivers are actively seeking more data when it comes to their children's academic and non-academic experiences.3 "Parents can only act on what they know," explains Bibb Hubbard, Founder and CEO of Learning Heroes, a Thrive grantee focused on strengthening relationships between parents and educators to improve student success. "Until parents have access to more than report card grades to measure their child's progress, they may not have a complete picture of how their child is achieving and may be stymied from taking the actions best suited for their child's specific learning needs." "We believe that when data is accessible, well-understood, and actively used, it becomes a powerful tool for driving student achievement and fostering meaningful family engagement," said Christina Heitz, Founder and CEO of Cambiar Education. "The Thrive Big Ideas Challenge is a call to action for innovators to bridge the student information gap by blending digital and human approaches, and create a driving force that helps unlock the power of every learner." The Thrive Challenge supports Cambiar Education's broader commitment to changing the way K-12 education data works for students and caregivers and builds on the insights and momentum from Cambiar Thrive's previous cohort , which focused on improved data sharing specifically with parents and caregivers. These Thrive grantees, for example, are making significant progress in engaging parents and caregivers with student data to improve student outcomes: Thrive grantee Paloma Learning has made significant strides in engaging caregivers as teaching partners for their children, unlocking a world of instructional time that otherwise lays dormant. A recent study found that families using Paloma helped their children make 41% more reading growth and 39% more growth in math than a matched control group. Multilingual learners nearly doubled their progress. Thrive funding helped TalkingPoints add to their suite of evidence that their platform decreases absenteeism, with the most significant impact on under-resourced students and the families serving them. A recent study with their partners at Tulsa Public Schools showed a decrease of 24% in absenteeism rates using TalkingPoints. Rock by Rock provides a library of project-based learning experiences that sit at the intersection of academic skills, life habits, and student sense of purpose and belonging and is building out a platform that supports parents and microschool founders to measure holistic learning and increase family communication. As a result of their pilot, the assessment framework was rated 10 out of 10 by caregivers, and 90% of educators would recommend their development of the Academic Dashboard. NACA Inspired Schools Network (NISN) is a national organization focused on transforming Indigenous education by creating a network of schools that integrate cultural relevance with academic rigor. As part of its movement to create excellent schools relevant to the communities they serve, they piloted a community-led assessment that engaged families, students, and school staff in a data-driven process to identify measurable school outcomes. This assessment process will ultimately be used across all NISN schools to improve graduate capstones and guide teacher inquiry. NISN schools report graduation rates 5%-18% above the State Native American baseline. Thrive grantee Families in Action is igniting parent confidence and reading at home through "Lit for Literacy," a family-led partnership. In 2024, 88% of students whose parents became Family Literacy Champions through Lit for Literacy made 30-100 points of literacy gain in one year. The Thrive Challenge seeks applicants whose big ideas are designed to improve student outcomes and collect evidence to show if students see gains - academic or otherwise - when they and/or caregivers are more engaged. The ability to track and assess quantitative and qualitative results and how students and/or caregivers are taking action as a result of the solution is a key component for the Thrive Challenge. Insight into how and and why the solution is used and what needs improvement enables productive and ongoing feedback loops, making the solutions more effective throughout the grant - and beyond. Successful proposals will: Demonstrate potential for innovative, systemic change in school communities. Offer sustainable and scalable solutions that are fresh, practical, and grounded in community needs. Articulate how a solution supports all students and/or caregivers to understand and act on student data. Focus on improving student outcomes through student and/or caregiver data engagement. MEDIA CONTACT Carla Punsalan McLoughlin [email protected] 1 Gallup. (2024, May 13). Schools struggle to engage Gen Z students. Retrieved from https://news.gallup.com/poll/648896/schools-struggle-engage-gen-students.aspx 2 James, M. P., & Frome, H. (2025, June 3). How student agency can boost engagement and readiness. Gallup. https://news.gallup.com/poll/660503/student-agency-boost-engagement-readiness.aspx 3 Felton, M. (2022, February 22). Parents are getting access to student data, but how can we support them to use it? Data Quality Campaign. https://dataqualitycampaign.org/how-can-we-support-parent-engagement-with-student-data/ About Cambiar Education Cambiar Education is a nonprofit K-12 venture studio built to change the marketplace for education innovation to prove undeniably that every student can succeed and thrive. It propels groundbreaking ventures charting the future of education led by founders with unshakeable optimism and courage. Cambiar cultivates a community of over 100 connected ventures, operating at the speed of innovation to make an impact and anchored in a commitment to creating solutions for our most vulnerable youth. About the Walton Family Foundation The Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of our founders, Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. We work in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support and investing in our home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas-Mississippi Delta. To learn more, visit waltonfamilyfoundation.org and follow us on Facebook , LinkedIn , Instagram and X . About the Bezos Family Foundation The Bezos Family Foundation is a private foundation created by Mike and Jackie Bezos and their family. Since 2000, the Foundation has partnered with remarkable organizations and individuals to transform how we prepare young people from prenatal to young adulthood to pursue their own path for success and meaningfully contribute to society. In addition to grantmaking, the Foundation runs two in-house programs: Bezos Scholars Program and Vroom. About Lemnis Lemnis is a public charity dedicated to expanding learning for all. Our vision is to create a future of the Unlimited Learner, where every young person can thrive in a time of dramatic change. Lemnis, whose name is inspired by the lemniscate (), believes that to unlock limitless possibilities for learners, we must create a sense of belonging and community, apply findings from neuroscience of learning and social sciences, leverage pro-social artificial intelligence and digital technology, and generate new ecosystems and supports that are learner centered. Lemnis invests in and partners with organizations that advance these beliefs by creating authentic and relevant connections between learning and opportunity, supporting learners holistically, and expanding how we define and measure learner success. For more information, visit www.lemnis.org . SOURCE Cambiar Education New UI, enhanced supplier collaboration and AI-powered features reflect Centric's commitment to speed, simplicity and continuous innovation. CAMPBELL, Calif., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Centric Software unveils the latest evolution of its market-leading Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) platform: Centric PLM 8.0. This powerful release introduces major breakthroughs, designed to disrupt outdated workflows and unlock innovation across global product lifecycles for fast-moving goods such as retail, fashion, luxury, outdoor/sports and footwear. Centric Software provides the most innovative enterprise solutions to plan, design, develop, source, buy, make, price, allocate, sell and replenish products such as fashion, luxury, footwear, outdoor, home, cosmetics & personal care as well as multi-category retail to achieve strategic and operational digital transformation goals. Centric Software Sets Retail Innovation Benchmark with Updates to Centric PLM This new Centric PLM is a strategic reset. Anchored by a reimagined user interface, next-gen collaboration features, embedded AI capabilities and significant performance improvements, Centric PLM reflects Centric Software's relentless investment in innovation that drives real business outcomes. "We innovate with purpose, driven by customer needs. Centric PLM 8.0 redefines speed, collaboration and user experience," says Ron Watson, EVP Product & CSO at Centric Software. "We rebuilt the UI from the ground up. The new sidebar removes friction so users stay focused on product creation, not system navigation. Each feature is engineered to empower creative and technical teams to operate at the speed of the market and that's what we've delivered." Centric PLM High-Impact Innovations: Integrated AI that Accelerates the Product Lifecycle: Centric Software delivers a growing library of embedded, configurable AI use cases that drive measurable impact across design, sourcing and development. Unlike bolt-on tools, Centric's AI is built into the PLM workflow and can be tailored to proprietary workflows, enabling faster, data-driven decisions. A standout example is Centric AI Fashion Inspiration, which empowers fashion, outdoor and home teams to explore new creative directions and speed up time to market by combining internal product data with real-time trend insights. Revolutionary Sidebar Navigation: Built with fast-moving brands, retailers and manufacturers in mind, the new sidebar navigation is a refined, intuitive redesign that puts every essential function just one click away. Designed for speed and simplicity, this sleek new layout cuts through the clutter of complex hierarchies, making even the most detailed product data instantly accessible to boost focus, streamline work and empower design, merchandising and development teams to respond with agility to ever-changing needs. Mobile PLM with the Centric Mobile App: Stay connected wherever work happens. The Centric Mobile App gives global teams flexible, mobile access to PLM data, from studio to showroom to factory floor. Used by leaders in fashion, outdoor and home, the app enables users to edit styles and materials, capture and annotate product photos and scan barcodes/QR codes for instant access, all from a phone. It's mobility without compromise, driving fast, informed decision on the go. Streamlined Supplier Collaboration: Supplier collaboration is now easier and faster with a unified, real-time platform built for both creative input and operational efficiency. Whether co-editing size charts, enabling agent-led style development or managing supplier requests in the background, every feature is designed to reduce delays enable deeper collaboration. Targeted in-platform messaging keeps communication focused, contextual and productive. Sustainability Without the Guesswork: Centric PLM introduces a comprehensive sustainability framework that adds clarity to compliance and traceability. Automated roll-ups of materials, centralized certificate tracking and configurable rules for global regulations give fashion and consumer goods companies, the tools to eliminate manual tracking and back sustainability claims with hard data. "Centric PLM 8.0 is a catalyst for transformation and is built to drive competitiveness for brands, retailers and manufacturers," says Chris Groves, CEO of Centric Software. "Each innovation we deliver is market-driven and shaped by our Customer Advisory Board (CAB), ensuring we focus on what matters most to our users. From embedded AI to enhanced user experiences, we're investing in what helps our customers succeed. As global complexity increases, Centric PLM is the foundation that empowers teams to move faster, collaborate deeper and innovate without limits." Learn more about Centric Software Request a Demo Centric Software (centricsoftware.com) From its headquarters in Silicon Valley, Centric Software provides an innovative and AI-enabled product concept-to-commercialization platform for retailers, brands and manufacturers of all sizes. As experts in fashion, luxury, footwear, outdoor, home, food & beverage, cosmetics & personal care as well as multi-category retail, Centric Software delivers best-of-breed solutions to plan, design, develop, source, comply, buy, make, price, allocate, market, sell and replenish products. Centric PLM, the leading PLM solution for fashion, outdoor, footwear and private label, optimizes product execution from ideation to development, sourcing and manufacture, realizing up to 50% improvement in productivity and a 60% decrease in time to market. the leading PLM solution for fashion, outdoor, footwear and private label, optimizes product execution from ideation to development, sourcing and manufacture, realizing up to 50% improvement in productivity and a 60% decrease in time to market. Centric Planning is an innovative, cloud-native, AI solution delivering end-to-end planning capabilities to maximize retail and wholesale business performance, including SKU optimization, resulting in an up to 110% increase in margins. is an innovative, cloud-native, AI solution delivering end-to-end planning capabilities to maximize retail and wholesale business performance, including SKU optimization, resulting in an up to 110% increase in margins. Centric Pricing & Inventory leverages AI to drive margins and boost revenues by up to 18% via price and inventory optimization from pre-season to in-season to season completion. leverages AI to drive margins and boost revenues by up to 18% via price and inventory optimization from pre-season to in-season to season completion. Centric Market Intelligence is an AI-driven platform delivering insights into consumer trends, competitor offers and pricing to boost competitivity and get closer to the consumer, with an up to 12% increase in average initial price point. is an AI-driven platform delivering insights into consumer trends, competitor offers and pricing to boost competitivity and get closer to the consumer, with an up to 12% increase in average initial price point. Centric Visual Boards pivot actionable data in a visual-first orientation to ensure robust, consumer-right assortments and product offers, dramatically decreasing assortment development cycle time. pivot actionable data in a visual-first orientation to ensure robust, consumer-right assortments and product offers, dramatically decreasing assortment development cycle time. Centric PXM, AI-powered product experience management (PXM) encompasses PIM, DAM, content syndication and digital shelf analytics (DSA) to optimize the product commercialization lifecycle resulting in a transformed brand experience. Increase sales channels, boost sell through and drive margins. Centric Software's market-driven solutions have the highest user adoption rate, customer satisfaction rate and fastest time to value in the industry. Centric Software has received multiple industry awards and recognition, appearing regularly in world-leading analyst reports and research. Centric Software is a subsidiary of Dassault Systemes (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), the world leader in 3D design software, 3D digital mock-up and PLM solutions. Centric Software is a registered trademark of Centric Software, Inc. in the US and other countries. Centric PLM, Centric Planning, Centric Pricing & Inventory, Centric Market Intelligence, Centric Visual Boards and Centric PXM are trademarks of Centric Software, Inc. All third-party trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. SOURCE Centric Software SAN FRANCISCO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CivilGrid, the civil design intelligence company, announced today its expansion into the Arizona and Nevada markets. This expansion will improve the building process for civil engineers and construction teams in the region. Often referred to as the 'Google Maps for the underground,' CivilGrid centralizes unprecedented utility maps and historical site datasets in an intuitive, on-demand platform where teams collaborate to plan and design projects. Pre-construction engineering and on-site construction face complex challenges, with over $100 billion lost annually due to planning-related construction errors, and 92% of projects exceeding their budget or schedule. CivilGrid provides the first-of-its-kind dataset that de-risks and accelerates due diligence, engineering, and construction processes to combat these issues. Designed for engineering and construction teams, CivilGrid centralizes unprecedented utility maps and site datasets. Post this "CivilGrid is a great tool for our pipeline projects for providing instant access to utility information during the planning and early design stages, identifying affected agencies along an alignment, and capturing field observations that aid in decision making for our designs," said Caisey Raines, US West Business Group Leader, Linear Infrastructure GHD. CivilGrid's unique benefits include accelerating pre-construction phases by up to 90%, reducing design delays and field surprises through curated datasets, and improving project scope accuracy with on-demand data. "I recommend CivilGrid to all utilities. They are a reliable source for the vital combined utility information that doesn't exist in most areas," said Bill Tuttle, VP of Engineering, San Jose Water. Engineering teams in these regions face similar challenges to those in California, including fragmented data sources, time-consuming research phases, and a need for improved coordination between office planning and field execution. CivilGrid's platform addresses these pain points by consolidating critical utility information and streamlining the pre-construction process. "Engineering firms are expected to deliver faster, more accurate work while navigating increasingly complex underground utility landscapes with outdated tools," said Josh Mackanic, CEO and Co-Founder of CivilGrid. "Our expansion into Arizona and Nevada tackles this head-on. When engineering teams spend weeks or months hunting for accurate utility data, there is an opportunity to address it. CivilGrid eliminates this inefficiency by centralizing crucial datasets that dramatically reduce design delays and field surprises. This move responds to our California clients who need our platform for their cross-state projects and a waitlist of Nevada and Arizona firms asking us to expand our coverage area." For more information, visit www.civilgrid.com About CivilGrid CivilGrid is the leading civil design intelligence platform, aggregating the most comprehensive engineering and construction project datasets. It provides critical site data to de-risk and expedite the pre-construction process. Our customers include WSP, Mark Thomas, Psomas, GHD, and AECOM. By enabling seamless collaboration and providing on-demand access to underground data, CivilGrid ensures that civil engineers and construction teams have the necessary visibility to execute projects efficiently and safely. Contact Information Wendy A.M. Yale Media Relations CivilGrid [email protected] SOURCE CivilGrid LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge adopted a ruling allowing Consumer Watchdog's lawsuit to move forward against Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, rejecting his attempt to dismiss the core legal challenge to his controversial surcharge scheme. The court's final ruling confirms that the case will proceed on the ground that Lara's actions may violate the FAIR Plan statute, which requires insurers to share wildfire costs proportionallynot shift them to consumers. In a press release today, Lara misstated the result: "Judge sides with Commissioner Lara, upholding authority to protect consumers and stabilize the CA FAIR Plan" Read Order here. "The elected Insurance Commissioner should not be misleading the public about the results of a case that challenges a half billion dollars in overcharges on their insurance bill," said William Pletcher, Director of Litigation for Consumer Watchdog. "It's inappropriate for the Commissioner to misstate the results of the hearing and lead people to believe the casewhich is going to trialis over." The ruling, now final per the court's July 22 Minute Order, overruled Lara's demurrer to the third cause of action, which challenges his approval of unprecedented FAIR Plan surcharges on legal grounds. The court scheduled a trial setting conference for November and authorized discovery to begin immediately. Despite this clear outcome, Commissioner Lara issued a misleading press release earlier today claiming the court had sided with him. In fact, the court explicitly ruled that Consumer Watchdog may proceed with its claim that Lara violated the FAIR Plan statute by approving surcharges without legal authority. "It's deeply troubling that the Insurance Commissioner is now running a disinformation campaign to mislead Californians about what the court actually ruled," added Pletcher. Consumer Watchdog's lawsuit challenges Lara's approval of "temporary supplemental fees" that shift FAIR Plan wildfire costsrequired by law to be shared among insurersonto the backs of homeowners, renters, and small businesses. As the lawsuit states: "The FAIR Plan operates as California's 'insurer of last resort.' Participation in the FAIR Plan is mandatory for all property/casualty insurers doing business in the state, who are required to share proportionally in the FAIR Plan's 'expenses, profits, and losses' based on a two-year market share lookback period. When necessary due to financial conditions, the FAIR Plan may levy 'assessments' against member insurerssubject to Respondent's approvalto fund its operations and pay claims. No provisions of the FAIR Plan statutes contemplate that assessment costs can be surcharged by member insurers to their policyholders." (Verified Petition 4) Insurance companies tried to get the law changed in the legislature and failed. Rather than defend the law, Commissioner Lara made agreements with insurers to issue bulletins authorizing surcharges without any hearing, transparency, or statutory authority. He then misrepresented the court's tentative ruling, which actually preserved the key claim that his actions are unlawful. "This ruling means the Commissioner's legally unsupported surcharge scheme will now be tested in court," said Ryan Mellino, who argued the case for Consumer Watchdog. "The law doesn't allow insurers to profit from the FAIR Plan while pushing their losses onto the people they're supposed to insure. This fight is just beginningand we intend to prove in court that the Commissioner's plan isn't just unlawful, it's a betrayal of the very consumers he's supposed to protect." Lara's misleading spin comes as his so-called "Sustainable Insurance Strategy" continues to unravel, failing to stem the exodus of insurers from California while triggering a surge in FAIR Plan enrollment and skyrocketing costs for consumers. Commissioner Lara's failed approach has drawn growing criticismincluding from former Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi, who managed the FAIR Plan in the aftermath of the 2003 wildfires, and recently said that Lara has failed to protect consumers and should resign: "Over the last three years, I have observed that this commissioner is not willing to take the hard task and the necessary task to stand up to the insurance industry. If the commissioner is not willing to do that then he's not doing his job, and he should leave."[1] Consumer Watchdog will continue to press its case to stop these unlawful surcharges and restore the FAIR Plan's core mission: a backstop for wildfire risk shared among insurers, not a conduit for forcing policyholders to pay for corporate losses. [1] https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/07/11/elias-bay-areas-garamendi-saying-insurance-czar-should-go-unheard-of/ SOURCE Consumer Watchdog Back-to-school and holiday spending plans take a hit as Americans and Canadians rethink celebrations, travel, and big-ticket purchases CHICAGO and VANCOUVER, BC, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Reach3 Insights and Rival Technologies today released a new wave of findings from Trade Winds, their ongoing research initiative exploring how consumers are navigating tariff-related economic uncertainty. The latest data reveals that financial pressure continues to reshape how North American consumers plan to celebrate, shop, and travel in the months ahead. Consumers across borders continue to hold back on spending According to the latest research in the United States and Canada: Reach3 Insights and Rival Technologies 32% of Americans and 29% of Canadians expect to spend less on holidays or celebrations this year. and expect to spend less on holidays or celebrations this year. 27% of Americans and 25% of Canadians plan to reduce back-to-school purchases. and plan to reduce back-to-school purchases. 61% of Americans and 55% of Canadians say they are unlikely to make a big-ticket purchase in the next few months. "Despite the recent U.S. stock market rally, stress, anxiety, and financial strain continue to show up in nearly every facet of consumer life," said Matt Kleinschmit, CEO and Founder of Reach3 Insights. "From travel and gifting to major household purchases, these results give brands across industries an early signal that traditional seasonal shopping patterns may look very different this year." Celebrations get scaled down Rising prices, tighter budgets, and shifting priorities are driving consumers to simplifyor even skipspecial occasions. In the U.S., 42% of Americans have already changed how they celebrate birthdays, holidays, and other events. In Canada, 41% report similar shifts, primarily due to cost concerns or a preference for lower-pressure gatherings. Travel plans grounded by cost, safety, and uncertainty While nearly half of Americans (49%) and two-thirds of Canadians (66%) still hope to travel this year, most are staying closer to home. Domestic trips far outnumber international ones, with many citing planning challenges, geopolitical risks, and rising travel costs. Notably, 71% of Americans and 62% of Canadians say they haven't changed their travel plans specifically due tariffssuggesting that financial strain, not policy alone, is influencing behavior. Big-ticket purchases on pause Consumers in both countries are also delaying large purchases. The top reasons include high prices, budget caution, and overall economic uncertainty. Those still planning to spend are prioritizing practical categories like home repair, furniture, and experiencesrather than luxury items. "People are feeling the squeeze but aren't always blaming tariffs directly," said Varun Jog, Research Director at Reach3 Insights and lead researcher on the study. "What we're seeing is a broader recalibration of priorities, and that has major implications for marketers heading into the fall and holiday seasons." Real-time insight into a shifting economy Trade Winds combines mobile-first, chat-like surveys and in-the-moment video feedback from a nationally representative insight community in both the U.S. and Canada. Powered by Rival's conversational research platform, the study captures consumer emotions, behaviors, and attitudes with greater immediacy and depth than traditional methods. To explore the latest findings or sign up for future updates, visit: https://www.reach3insights.com/trade-winds About Reach3 Insights and Rival Technologies Reach3 Insights and Rival Technologies are pioneers in conversational research and the leading authority on insight communities. Rival's mobile-first, conversational platform transforms conventional surveys into personalized, engaging research experiences that emulate the way people communicate today. Reach3 is an award-winning full-service consulting firm that uses immersive, real-time research designs and dynamic digital storytelling to deliver deep experiential insights. Amplified by AI, Rival and Reach3's conversational research approach delivers higher response rates, deeper engagement, and faster time-to-insights. To learn more, visit rivaltech.com or reach3insights.com. Contact Information Marie Melsheimer +1-541-815-3951 [email protected] SOURCE Reach3 Insights and Rival Technologies The new facility at Rosewind Community Center offers free workforce training and access to health services COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) announced today the opening of its new Workforce Innovation and Talent Center (WITC) in Columbus, located at the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority's Rosewind Community Center. The WITC will provide the community access to free workforce training and health services in collaboration with various local workforce organizations, such as Eckerd Connects, Columbus Jewish and Family Services, Columbus State Community College, YouthBuild and more. The WITC will transform lives in the Columbus community, like that of Triunity Darden. Her journey began while trying to navigate herself on a better path into adulthood. Now, as a pharmacy technician at CVS Health, Triunity is not only making progress on her own journey, but her sister is also following in her footsteps toward pursuing the same career. "Finding a job I enjoy was challenging, and then after losing my previous job, I knew Eckerd was my first step toward change. The program supports you in going back to school, finding a job or building a career path," Darden said. "Through their support and guidance, I realized that it was okay to rebuild and not have everything figured out. Now that I'm a certified pharmacy technician, I feel accomplished and motivated to advance in my career. Knowing I'm making a difference in people's lives at CVS Pharmacy, often in unseen ways, keeps me going." The new WITC will provide free training for individuals seeking employment as pharmacy technicians, customer service associates, call center associates and retail associates. A simulated retail store location will offer hands-on job training to create experiences resembling real-world scenarios. Every participant who completes the WITC program has an opportunity to apply for a position at CVS Health and will also have access to Aetna's new Community Resource Center. This center is available to the public, and its services include health needs assessments and education, assistance navigating health benefits, access to computers and state-of-the-art teleconferencing, and connections to a network of local health care providers. "At our new WITC, we're dedicated to helping individuals build skills for in-demand jobs, like Pharmacy Technicians," said Sheryl Burke, SVP of Corporate Social Responsibility and Chief Sustainability Officer at CVS Health. "Working alongside the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority and various local workforce organizations, we aim to make it easier for community members to access and find meaningful employment." "CMHA is committed to improving the quality of life for Franklin County residents, and all of our community, and we're honored to support the grand opening of the Columbus WITC as part of that mission," said CMHA Board Chair James L. Ervin, Jr. "In today's rapidly evolving economy, the strength of local communities depends on a skilled, agile, and adaptive workforce," Ervin added. "The new Columbus WITC will be a tremendous resource for individuals and employers across central Ohio, creating opportunities for skill development, career advancement, and long-term economic growth." Working with the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority builds on CVS Health and Aetna's long history of community support in Ohio. To date, CVS Health has invested more than $79 million in affordable housing across Ohio, helping to create, preserve and renovate nearly 1,900 housing units. The company also offers free health screenings to individuals nationwide through its Project Health initiative. Last year, CVS Health hosted 54 Project Health events, which saw over 1,400 participants and provided 5,000 screenings in Ohio. About CVS Health CVS Health is a leading health solutions company building a world of health around every consumer, wherever they are. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had more than 9,000 retail pharmacy locations, more than 1,000 walk-in and primary care medical clinics, a leading pharmacy benefits manager with approximately 88 million plan members, and a dedicated senior pharmacy care business serving more than 800,000 patients per year. The Company also serves an estimated more than 37 million people through traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including highly rated Medicare Advantage offerings and a leading standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. The Company's integrated model uses personalized, technology driven services to connect people to simply better health, increasing access to quality care, delivering better outcomes, and lowering overall costs. Media Contacts Courtney Tavener 401-712-3698 [email protected] SOURCE CVS Health Virtu Financial, LTP, Hidden Road Partners, DV Chain, CoinRoutes, and Amber Group included in partner ecosystem to provide deep liquidity and competitive pricing to institutional market participants at launch SINGAPORE, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EDXM International today announced that its new perpetual futures exchange is now live. The exchange is purpose-built for institutional traders pursuing capital-efficient crypto strategies and deep liquidity. EDXM International clients can now trade perpetual futures contracts across 44 trading pairs, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and XRP. Backed by many of the world's leading financial institutions and venture capital firms, EDXM International equips institutional traders and other market participants with high-performance infrastructure designed to minimize collateral requirements. Its perpetual futures trading venue leverages the latest technology to improve trade execution using the company's in-house, proprietary matching engine to further low-latency digital assets trading. In addition to better trade execution, EDXM International's pricing consistently outperforms incumbent crypto exchanges, with the cost to trade better or on par with global Tier 1 exchanges. EDXM International also features Smart Collateral Management ("SCM"), an innovative solution for liquidity providers to quote on multiple markets in the most capital-efficient way possible without compromising risk exposure on the venue. SCM is unique and EDX International is the first crypto venue to offer this kind of solution. "This launch represents a major milestone in shaping a more efficient and accessible digital assets ecosystem for the industry," said Kal Chan, Managing Director, EDXM International. "We're addressing long-standing barriers to institutional participation by reducing collateral requirements and offering deep, consistent liquidity. There is significant pent-up demand for digital assets in the region, and our perpetual futures platform marks just the beginning of our commitment to building the robust market infrastructure that institutions need to trade with confidence." The new venue is supported by an integrated network of top-tier liquidity providers, prime brokerage and OEMS partners, including Amber Group, CoinRoutes, DV Chain, Hidden Road Partners, LTP, and Virtu Financial. These institutional partners play a critical role in setting up a solid market foundation, contributing liquidity and supporting overall trading activity and platform efficiency. "Virtu's focus has always been on providing transparent, deep liquidity across asset classes, and we're pleased to support EDXM International's new platform as it enhances institutional access to digital assets," said Brett Fairclough, co-president and co-chief operating officer at Virtu Financial. "EDXM International's innovative use of smart collateral management sets a new standard for capital efficiency in crypto." "EDXM International's venue aligns with our mission to deliver integrated, full-service prime brokerage solutions for the digital asset ecosystem," said Jack Yang, Founder and CEO at LTP. "We're pleased to be among the first to go live, where we will enhance market activity and drive essential liquidity for institutional clients who demand transparent, secure, and sophisticated access to digital assets. "With institutional demand for sophisticated, secure digital asset trading products continuing to grow, the launch of EDXM International's perpetual futures exchange represents an advancement in market infrastructure," said Michael Higgins, International CEO and Global Head of Corporate Development for Hidden Road. "Our modern prime brokerage platform is purpose-built to provide market participants with the tools and support required for efficient, institutional-grade access to digital assets, and we look forward to servicing EDXM International and Hidden Road's joint clients as they engage with the venue." "As a leading global market maker, we see the launch of perps on EDXM International as a meaningful step forward in market maturity," said Michael Herman, Head of APAC at DV Chain. "We're proud to support this next phase and remain committed to advancing liquidity, accessibility, and institutional-grade infrastructure in digital assets." "We're proud to support the launch of EDXM International's perpetual futures platform, which reflects the next evolution of institutional digital asset trading. At CoinRoutes, we believe in empowering clients with faster, and cheaper execution, and EDXM's infrastructure aligns seamlessly with our mission," said Ian Weisberger CEO of CoinRoutes. "We're excited to support EDXM International's launch as it brings a new level of performance and reliability to digital asset trading," said Luke Li, Co-Founder and Head of Markets at Amber Group. "Its institutional-grade infrastructure and focus on capital efficiency resonate strongly with our mission to help shape a more mature and accessible market for institutional participants globally." About EDXM International EDXM International is a fast-growing digital asset trading venue for institutional clients that leverages best practices from traditional financial markets on a purpose-built crypto platform. EDXM International's robust liquidity environment, modern technology and nonconflicted business model are designed to meet the needs of both crypto-native firms and the world's largest financial institutions. EDXM International is a subsidiary of EDX Markets Holding Company Inc. About EDX EDX is a digital asset technology firm that combines an institution-only trading venue with a central clearinghouse. EDX Markets, our flagship marketplace, is designed to emulate the world's most sophisticated exchanges, with deep liquidity, firm prices and low trading costs. EDX has structured its business to minimize risk for its members while providing a diverse array of operational and capital efficiencies. Backed by some of the world's leading trading and venture capital firms, EDX is actively developing new features and expanding its geographic presence to deliver trusted, liquid and efficient crypto trading experiences for all institutions. To learn more, visit edxmarkets.com . Media Contact Forefront Communications [email protected] Disclaimer: EDXM International is not regulated by MAS and is different from the exempted entity EDXM Global Pte. Ltd. EDXM International's products and services are not available for persons or entities in US, EU and UK and any marketing done is not directed at persons or entities based in US, EU and UK. All services and products of EDXM International are only directed toward professional investors or accredited investors or expert investors with sophisticated understanding of underlying risks. SOURCE EDXM International New research reveals 62% of young travelers want to visit destinations tied to their favorite novels, sparking a literary travel renaissance CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EF Ultimate Break, a leader in experiential travel for 1835-year-olds, today announced the launch of its BookTok-inspired travel collection, bringing beloved fictional worlds to life through dedicated itineraries based on viral literary content. The announcement comes alongside new data from EF Ultimate Break's State of Gen Z & Young Millennial Travel Report, Volume II, which reveals that BookTok tourism is emerging as an entirely new travel category. With nearly 4 in 10 young-adult travelers reporting they are members of book clubs, 62% expressed interest in visiting locations tied to novels they've read. EF Ultimate Break launches "BookTok" guided tours to help travelers celebrate popular literary works. Post this To meet this growing demand, EF Ultimate Break is offering these literary adventures as both scheduled group departures for solo travelers to join and as private group tours, perfect for book clubs, BookTok creators, and reading communities looking to experience their favorite stories together. "We're seeing a shift toward young people seeking out more meaningful travel experiences where they can connect face-to-face around their shared interests," said Heather Leisman, President, EF Ultimate Break. "Our new BookTok-inspired trips give travelers the chance to turn those online conversations into real-world friendships while exploring the places that bring their favorite stories to life." BookTok-Inspired Trips Include: Cairo, Athens & Rome: Inspired by Percy Jackson: A Mediterranean odyssey following the mythological footsteps of Rick Riordan's beloved series. Stand in awe before the towering Pyramids of Giza, climb to the Parthenon where Athena keeps watch, and walk through the Roman Forum where heroes once trained. 9 days, 3 countries From $3,259 (monthly payments as low as $225 per month) (monthly payments as low as per month) Departing 5/6/26, 5/25/26, 6/24/26, 7/25/26, and 9/25/26 Highlights of Switzerland: Inspired by A Court of Thorns and Roses: An alpine adventure through Sarah J. Maas's Prythian-inspired landscapes. Cross glacier suspension bridges like Illyrian warriors, explore castle corridors where shadows linger, and dine at themed Starfall dinners in the "Night Court" of Zermatt. 8 days, 4 cities From $3,319 (monthly payments as low as $319 per month) (monthly payments as low as per month) Departing 6/25/26, 7/30/26, and 9/24/26 Cruise Croatia: Inspired by People We Meet on Vacation: An Adriatic adventure aboard a private ship, channeling Emily Henry's sun-soaked romance. Island-hop from Split to Dubrovnik, share stories with fellow book lovers under Mediterranean stars, and create your own vacation memories. Because according to Emily Henry, "the best part of vacation is all the things you don't plan." 10 days, 7 islands From $3,499 (monthly payments as low as $279 per month) (monthly payments as low as per month) Departing 7/14/26 and 8/11/26 A focus on literary community building Each BookTok-inspired tour features immersive elements designed to bring fictional worlds to life while fostering connections between travelers who share the same literary passions. Tour development principles include: Book Club Discussions : Guided conversations about favorite characters, plot theories, and literary themes with fellow readers throughout the journey. : Guided conversations about favorite characters, plot theories, and literary themes with fellow readers throughout the journey. Themed Experiences : From Starfall dinners in Switzerland to Welcome Dinners with Book Club discussions, each tour includes activities that honor the source material. : From Starfall dinners in to Welcome Dinners with Book Club discussions, each tour includes activities that honor the source material. Literary Locations : Visits to real-world locations that inspired authors, from the cafe where The Sorcerer's Stone was written to landscapes that mirror fictional settings. : Visits to real-world locations that inspired authors, from the cafe where The Sorcerer's Stone was written to landscapes that mirror fictional settings. Community Connection: Tours designed specifically for travelers who want to journey with people inspired by the same books, creating organic communities united by shared literary experiences. Creator + Community + Book Clubs Tours: Calling all creators and social groups! Following the launch of EF Ultimate Break's Creator Tours in May 2025, our BookTok-inspired tours offer content creators, community leaders, and book clubs the opportunity to move one of next year's meet ups to the IRL location of one of their favorite books. These trips allow BookTok influencers and community leads to meet up in person, host book club conversations, combining their unique perspectives on beloved books with carefully crafted itineraries that bring fictional worlds to life alongside their most engaged fans. Take it from social creator Sarah Baus who already has two sold-out ACOTAR inspired trips! To explore EF Ultimate Break's BookTok-inspired tours, please visit: https://www.efultimatebreak.com/trip-collections/booktok-inspired-trips About EF Ultimate Break EF Ultimate Break is the best way to experience the world for anyone 18-35. With over 140+ trips, we handle logistics for everything that makes travel a great experience from accommodations to flights to amazing tour directors to memory-making excursions. Our affordable interest-free payment plans make international travel possible for every traveler. EF Ultimate Break is part of EF World Journeys , a leader in guided, experiential travel with tour operator brands that also include EF Go Ahead Tours (adults 35+) and EF Adventures (all ages, 14+ with adult supervision). Want to be a brand ambassador for EF Ultimate Break and earn free travel? Learn more by visiting: #1 Travel Brand Ambassador Program | EF Ultimate Break . Are you an influencer or creator who wants to lead tours with your growing audience? Earn commissions on each booking by joining our influencer-hosted tour program. Partners can now participate in EF Ultimate Break's affiliate marketing program and earn commissions for tour bookings. Click here to learn more . SOURCE EF Ultimate Break ORLANDO, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In June, closed sales of single-family existing homes statewide rose 2.8% compared to a year ago, according to Florida Realtors' latest housing data. Continuing trends seen over the past few months, Florida's housing market also reported higher inventory levels (active listings), and easing median sales prices in June and second quarter (2Q) 2025 year over year. "As Florida's housing market continues to transition toward balance, opportunities are emerging on both sides of the transaction," said 2025 Florida Realtors President Tim Weisheyer, broker-owner, Dream Builders Realty and dbrCommercial Real Estate Services in Central Florida. "Motivated sellers who understand today's market dynamics are attracting qualified buyers and enjoying the benefits of accumulated equity in their homes, and with June marking a positive year-over-year increase in single-family sales, the momentum is real. "Whether buying or selling, there is no question Floridians benefit from having a Realtor by their side someone with true insight, real data and experience to guide them through the complexities of this evolving market." Last month, closed sales of existing single-family homes statewide totaled 23,827, up 2.8% year-over-year, while existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 7,809, down 6.4% over June 2024, according to data from Florida Realtors Research Department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. For 2Q 2025, statewide existing single-family home sales totaled 72,155, down 2.6% from 2Q 2024, while statewide existing condo-townhouse sales totaled 24,864, down 14.2% year-over-year. Closed sales may occur from 30- to 90-plus days after sales contracts are written. Looking at the for-sales picture, Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O'Connor said June's 2.8% increase in closed sales of single-family homes year-over-year represented the first gain in that metric since January. He noted, "This rebound helped to temper what would have been an otherwise very sluggish second quarter for closings. As a result, second quarter single-family sales were only down 2.6%. And, condo and townhouse sales were down by 20% relative to a year ago in May, so June's decline of only 6.4% was far less severe by comparison." The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in June was $412,000, down 3.5% compared to June 2024, while the statewide median price for condo-townhouse units was $300,000, down 7.7% from a year ago. For 2Q 2025, Florida's single-family median sales price was $414,900, down 3.1% compared to the same quarter a year ago; the condo-townhouse median for 2Q was $310,000, down 6.1% year-over-year. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less. Turning to listings, O'Connor said, "There were 2.7% fewer single-family homes listed for sale this June than in the same month last year. That's the second straight month with a decline after we saw a fair amount of growth in new listings over the first four months of the year. Single-family new listings for the second quarter overall were down by 0.7%, and this trend will likely continue through the summer months. "New listings of condos and townhouses were down 7.5% year over year in June, and by 6.2% for the second quarter overall. This cooling of new listings has led to a slowdown in inventory growth in recent months, despite sales being well below where they were last year." On the supply side of the market, single-family existing homes were at a 5.6-months' supply in June and 2Q 2025, while condo-townhouse properties were at a 10-months' supply for both timeframes. While inventory growth has slowed, the level of months' supply in both property categories favors buyers at the negotiating table, O'Connor said, particularly when it comes to the 10-months' supply level statewide for condos and townhouse units. To see the full statewide housing activity reports, go to the Florida Realtors Newsroom and look under Latest Releases or download the June 2025 and 2Q 2025 data report PDFs under Market Data. Florida Realtors is The Voice for Real Estate in Florida. It provides programs, services, continuing education, research and legislative representation to 238,000 members in 50 boards/associations. Florida Realtors Newsroom website is available at http://floridarealtors.org/newsroom. SOURCE Florida Realtors COPENHAGEN, Denmark, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pixelz, the global platform for content creation for fashion e-commerce, today announced the launch of Digital Twins a groundbreaking AI-powered solution that enables brands to create campaign-quality imagery at scale, with full creative freedom through a blend of talent and technology. Pixelz Digital Twins Pixelz Digital Twins At the heart of Digital Twins is a unique partnership between Pixelz and talent agency Le Troch ensuring every AI-generated model is based on a real person, developed with consent and used under clear licensing agreements. This collaboration creates a future-forward production model where speed, scale, and ethics are no longer at odds. "We're not replacing models we're collaborating with them," said Thomas Ladefoged, CEO of Pixelz. "Digital Twins is a hybrid system that respects craft and creativity while unlocking the flexibility modern brands need." Built for Lifestyle and Campaign Digital Twins is purpose-built for high-impact creative content. Whether seasonal campaigns, market-specific lookbooks, or social rollouts and localization, the workflow gives brands a fast, flexible alternative to traditional photoshoots. Brands select their model, provide a creative brief, and receive campaign-quality images in just a few days all refined by Pixelz's post-production team to ensure brand consistency and visual excellence. "We've designed this for the creative teams behind brand storytelling who need content that's fast, scalable, and still human," said Ladefoged. A Hybrid Production Workflow Digital Twins combines the flexibility of generative AI with the control and nuance of traditional production. This hybrid workflow is built for speed without shortcuts: Fast turnarounds from hours to 5 days from brief to delivery Creative flexibility define your vision, location, and mood Consistent quality every image passes through Pixelz's expert retouching pipeline With over a decade of experience applying AI to high-volume content production, Pixelz understands the ethical and operational challenges that come with scale. Digital Twins builds on that legacy with the same care now applied to generative workflows. Responsible AI, Real Collaboration While most generative AI tools rely on scraped or synthetic data, Pixelz takes a different approach: through partnerships with model agencies, all Digital Twins are created using isolated, model-approved data. Models have full control over where their likeness is used creating new revenue opportunities for talent while giving brands confidence in the integrity of their AI content. "We've built transparency into every layer of the process," said Ladefoged. "From agency contracts to technical workflows, Digital Twins sets a new standard for what responsible AI looks like." "Working with Pixelz on Digital Twins has shown what forward-thinking collaboration with AI can look like," said Raquel Troch, Founder of Le Troch Management. "Pixelz created a solution that protects talent, aligns with our values, and sets a clear standard for how AI should be used in fashion imagery." Media Contact: Thomas Ladefoged CEO, Pixelz [email protected] +45 20 26 50 22 https://www.pixelz.com/digital-twins/ SOURCE Pixelz PITTSBURGH, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrix Solutions , provider of the only global ad sales platform built specifically for media, today announced that FOX Television Stations have selected the Monarch Revenue Management and CRM platform to drive operational efficiency, enhance visibility, and optimize advertising revenue across their growing portfolio of linear, digital, OTT, and CTV channels. Brenda Hetrick, President, Matrix Solutions Sheila Bruce, Senior Vice President of Ad Sales, FOX Television Stations With the increasing complexity of managing diversified revenue streams, FOX Television Stations sought a centralized, intelligent system to unify their forecasting, pipeline management, and budgeting efforts. By implementing Monarch, FOX will gain a holistic and real-time view of its sales organization, empowering teams with the tools to make smarter, data-informed decisions and improve overall advertiser engagement. "As media organizations diversify their revenue models, the ability to connect data sources, streamline workflows, and maintain visibility across all channels is more critical than ever," said Brenda Hetrick, President of Matrix Solutions. "We're thrilled to support Fox with Monarch's enterprise-grade forecasting and revenue management capabilities. Monarch will deliver the insights and agility needed to navigate the evolving ad landscape while enabling a consistent, strategic approach to customer engagement and revenue growth." FOX Television Stations will leverage Monarch's advanced tools to: Optimize Revenue Streams by centralizing sales data and automating workflows across all media types, allowing for real-time analytics and actionable insights. Enhance Customer Engagement through seamless contact management, enabling their teams to better understand client needs and deliver strategic, multichannel advertising solutions. Drive Operational Efficiency by improving forecasting accuracy and providing a unified view of the sales pipeline across stations, teams, and territories. "Our investment in Monarch underscores our commitment to modernizing ad sales with smarter tools that unlock new revenue opportunities," said Sheila Bruce, Senior Vice President of Ad Sales, FOX Television Stations. "The platform equips our team with the visibility and agility needed to better serve our clients and grow our business across every screen and platform." Monarch is currently deployed by over 10,000 users and manages more than $11 billion in annual media ad revenue. FOX joins a growing number of top-tier media companies choosing Matrix to future-proof their ad operations and empower sales success. For more information about Monarch and Matrix Solutions, visit www.matrixformedia.com . About Matrix Solutions Matrix Solutions is a forward-thinking technology company that empowers the media ad sales industry with intelligence, technology, and expertise. Its flagship solution, Monarch, is the only global ad sales platform built specifically for media, delivering the tools and business intelligence necessary to optimize inventory. Matrix manages more than $11 billion annually in media ad revenue, serves over 10,000 users, and maintains a renewal rate exceeding 95%. The company also founded the annual Media Ad Sales Summit and Media Ad Sales Council (MASC), initiatives that unite industry leaders to advance the future of media ad sales. For more information, please visit matrixformedia.com . About FOX Television Stations FOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power broadcast television stations in the U.S. These include stations located in 14 of the top 15 largest designated market areas, or DMAs, and duopolies in 11 DMAs, including the three largest DMAs (New York, Los Angeles and Chicago). Of these stations, 18 are affiliated with the FOX Network. In addition to distributing sports, entertainment and syndicated content, our television stations collectively produce approximately 1,200 hours of local news every week. These stations leverage viewer, distributor and advertiser demand for the FOX Network's national content. SOURCE Matrix Solutions Top executives from Edison Chouest Offshore visits HD Hyundai to discuss broad-ranging collaboration, including joint shipbuilding initiatives U.S. engineers join as delegates to observe Korea's design and production processes facilitating the transfer of world-class shipbuilding expertise as delegates to observe Korea's design and production processes facilitating the transfer of world-class shipbuilding expertise Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai: "This joint initiative will become a milestone in Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation" SEOUL, South Korea, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HD Hyundai is officially beginning its on-site initiatives for joint shipbuilding operations in the United States. HD Hyundai announced on Wednesday, July 23rd that a delegation from its U.S. shipbuilding partner, Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO), visited Korea to discuss detailed plans for the joint construction of container vessels in the United States. HD Hyundai and Edison Chouest Offshore recently discussed detailed plans for the joint construction of container vessels in the United States. From right to left, Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai, and Dino Chouest, CEO of Edison Chouest Offshore Led by CEO Dino Chouest, a delegation of more than ten key executives and engineers from ECO visited Korea from Tuesday, July 22nd to Wednesday, July 23rd. During their two-day visit, the delegation toured HD Hyundai's Global R&D Center, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' and HD Hyundai Mipo's shipyard to witness firsthand the technological capabilities and shipbuilding expertise of the world's leading shipbuilder. Earlier in June, the two companies signed an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a strategic and comprehensive partnership, agreeing to jointly build medium-sized container vessels at ECO's shipyard by 2028. They also committed to expanding the scope of cooperation beyond ship types to include port cranesa sector with heightened security considerations. HD Hyundai also dispatched a team of more than ten experts to ECO's shipyard last month to inspect production systems and facilities, while also providing consultation to enhance productivity. On the first day of their visit, Tuesday, July 22nd, the ECO delegation visited HD Hyundai's Global R&D Center located in Gyeonggi, Korea. After receiving a briefing on HD Hyundai's cutting-edge technologies and shipbuilding capabilities, they toured the Digital Insight Center to observe the operational status of HD Hyundai-built vessels currently in service around the world. The delegation then visited the site where automation solutions were developed and discussed its practical application along with robotic welding technologies at shipyards. This was based on a shared understanding that to expand joint shipbuilding efforts in the U.S., strengthening local infrastructure and enhancing production capabilities will be necessary. A meeting was also held between the top executives of both companies. During the discussion, Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai, and Chouest agreed to expand their partnership beyond joint construction of container vessels and explore future business opportunities together. Chung shared that "HD Hyundai fully supports efforts to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding industry," and added "the joint shipbuilding project between the two companies in the United States will serve as an excellent example of Korea-U.S. cooperation in the shipbuilding sector." On the second day of their visit, Wednesday, July 23rd, the ECO delegation traveled to Ulsan to tour shipyards at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and HD Hyundai Mipo. They observed shipbuilding sites, boarded large container vessels, and closely examined HD Hyundai's design and production processes, dock operation and management methods, as well as its automation systems. The engineers from ECO, who accompanied the delegation to Korea, will remain for another week to learn advanced shipbuilding techniques and participate in a technical exchange workshop where they will discuss detailed plans for joint shipbuilding. Meanwhile, ECO is a U.S.-based shipbuilding group that operates eighteen commercial shipyards across the country. The company has built and currently operates a fleet of 300 Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs), demonstrating its world-class competitiveness in the OSV sector. SOURCE HD Hyundai Company responds to heartfelt outreach with a gift of hope and stability PHILADELPHIA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Home Genius Exteriors (HGE) donated and installed a brand-new roof for the Rivera family, a local household navigating unimaginable challenges: Three children diagnosed with a rare genetic liver disease. Home Genius Exteriors (HGE) donated and installed a brand-new roof for the Rivera family, a local household navigating unimaginable challenges: Three children diagnosed with a rare genetic liver disease. Last week, the Riveras contacted HGE after noticing issues with their aging roof, including water damage worsened by recent summer storms. Following a thorough inspection, they were informed that a full roof replacement was needed. Despite HGE's exhaustive efforts to find a viable financial solution, the family's burden of medical bills, student loans, and living expenses made it impossible to move forward with the project. Touched by the family's heart-felt email sharing their personal story and praising the team's extraordinary support, HGE decided to donate the roof in full, covering all materials and labor. Crews arrived at their home to install the new roof. "As a father of five, I was moved by the story of the Rivera family," said Jeff Gunhus, CEO, Home Genius Exteriors. "Home Genius is proud to support the families in the communities in which we serve, and we are hopeful this small gesture will help ease their burden." What began in early 2022 as a health scare involving the family's then three-year-old son led to a diagnosis of Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC), a rare, progressive liver disease. Within a year, their two younger children a three-year-old and a five-month-old were also diagnosed with the same congenital condition. As the family adjusted to the demands of life with three chronically ill children, they were also confronted with a cancer diagnosis for an immediate family member, further exhausting their financial and emotional resources. "This is what community meansshowing up, asking 'How can I help?' and offering support when it's needed most," said Austin Killian, Co-founder and Executive Vice President, Home Genius Exteriors. "The Rivera family's story of strength and overcoming adversity reminds us why we do what we do." "It's hard to put into words what this means to us," said Angela Rivera, who first reached out to Home Genius Exteriors in an email sharing her family's story. "We were trying so hard to find a way to make it work, but with everything happening, it just felt out of reach. This act of kindness made an overwhelming situation feel a little less heavy and gave us hope when we needed it most." This philanthropic project is part of the company's Home Genius Cares initiative, which provides support, service, and donations to local communities. To learn more about PFIC and ways to support families affected by it, please visit www.pfic.org. Here is a link to photos. About Home Genius Exteriors Home Genius Exteriors is one of the fastest growing and most respected home improvement companies in America. With a commitment to exceptional customer service, unrivaled quality, and a culture of innovation, the company aims to revolutionize the home improvement experience for homeowners nationwide. Home Genius Exteriors offers a wide range of services, including roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, and more, all backed by a team of industry experts dedicated to delivering outstanding results. SOURCE Home Genius Exteriors CHENGDU, China, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. ("Kelun-Biotech" or "the Company", HKEX: 6990) today announced that its partner, Windward Bio AG ("Windward Bio") has launched its Phase 2 POLARIS clinical study, assessing long-acting dosing of SKB378/WIN378 for people living with asthma. SKB378/WIN378 is a novel, recombinant fully human monoclonal antibody (mAb) that potently binds to the thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) ligand and inhibits the TSLP mediated signaling pathway by blocking the interaction between TSLP and TSLP receptor. This is a well-validated cytokine that plays a key role in the development and progression of a wide array of immunological conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where inhibition has demonstrated benefit in a wide array of inflammatory phenotypes. SKB378/WIN378 has been engineered to achieve an extended half-life and effector silencing and is subcutaneously administered. SKB378/WIN378 has been studied in a Phase 1 trial which confirmed the half-life for extended dosing, demonstrated a low rate of antidrug antibodies, and was safe and well tolerated up to the highest tested dose. The Phase 2 POLARIS trial is a global, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the dosing, safety, and efficacy of SKB378/WIN378 in patients with asthma. Initial data is expected in mid-2026. Additional clinical trials are planned with SKB378/WIN378 including in COPD in 2026. In January 2025, an IND application for SKB378/WIN378 for the treatment of COPD was approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). SKB378/WIN378 started as a co-development project jointly conducted by the Company and Harbour BioMed (also known as HBM9378), with both parties equally sharing global rights. In January 2025, it was announced that the Company and Harbour BioMed had entered into an exclusive license agreement with Windward Bio, under which the Company and Harbour BioMed granted Windward Bio an exclusive license for the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of SKB378/WIN378 globally (excluding Greater China and several Southeast and West Asian countries). About Kelun-Biotech Kelun-Biotech (6990.HK) is a holding subsidiary of Kelun Pharmaceutical (002422.SZ), which focuses on the R&D, manufacturing, commercialization and global collaboration of innovative biological drugs and small molecule drugs. The company focuses on major disease areas such as solid tumors, autoimmune, inflammatory, and metabolic diseases, and in establishing a globalized drug development and industrialization platform to address the unmet medical needs in China and the rest of world. The Company is committed to becoming a leading global enterprise in the field of innovative drugs. At present, the Company has more than 30 ongoing key innovative drug projects, of which 3 projects have been approved for marketing, 1 project is in the NDA stage, and more than 10 projects are in the clinical stage. The company has established one of the world's leading proprietary ADC platforms, OptiDC, and has 1 ADC project approved for marketing, 1 ADC project in NDA stage, and multiple ADC and novel DC assets in clinical or preclinical research stage. For more information, please visit https://kelun-biotech.com/. About Windward Bio Windward Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company with deep discovery, development and commercialization expertise committed to transforming the treatment of people living with advanced immunological conditions. Its lead program is WIN378, a potential best-in-disease, long-acting, anti-TSLP monoclonal antibody in Phase 2 for asthma. The company is planning additional clinical studies of WIN378 in COPD and other respiratory indications and is also building a pipeline of long-acting bi-specifics targeting validated biology in respiratory and dermatological conditions. Windward Bio launched earlier this year with a $200M Series A led by top-tier investors. SOURCE Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Tequila brand? Yes. Lifestyle brand? Absolutely. Cultural disruptor? Now more than ever. SAN FRANCISCO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Leon Y Sol has partnered with celebrated Persian artist and designer Amir Fatemi (@am.irfatemi) to launch a one-of-a-kind capsule collection that's loud, unapologetic, and fiercely rooted in Persian identity. From custom sneakers and graphic shirts to defiant art pieces, this drop isn't just about style, it's about story, resilience, and standing tall. Persian Prosperity Nike Women, Life, Freedom Edition The collection is a firestorm of color, symbolism, and heritagebuilt around themes of freedom, resilience, and cultural pride. It's a love letter to Iranian artistry. A battle cry for those who won't be silenced. And a bold step forward in a world desperate for authenticity. "This is personal," said Bobby Marhamat, CEO of Leon Y Sol. "We're Persian. We're American. I'm an entrepreneur and a creativeand this drop is about owning all of that. We're shining a light on a culture that's powerful, poetic, and unbreakable. This isn't about riding a trend. It's about honoring where we come fromand where we're going." The limited-edition line features: Hand-designed custom sneakers blending Persian patterns with streetwear grit Graphic shirts that speak truth without apology Wearable art that puts culture, rebellion, and identity front and center Amir Fatemi, known for his fearless design language and roots in underground creative movements, brings raw emotional weight to every piece. "Persian culture isn't quiet," Fatemi says. "It's bold. It's beautiful. It fights back. This collab is for those who carry that spirit wherever they go." Select items will debut at the upcoming launch party, with the full collection available online soon at www.leonysol.com. A portion of proceeds will go to global organizations supporting freedom of expression and human rights in Iran and beyond, including the NUFDI organization who is leading the Iran Prosperity Project. This isn't merch. It's a message. This isn't fashion. It's fire. This is Leon Y Sol. ABOUT LEON Y SOL TEQUILA Leon Y Sol is more than tequila. It's a movement a lifestyle brand for those who live with intensity, celebrate with purpose, and never dilute who they are. Born in California and handcrafted in the Highlands of Jalisco, our award-winning expressions are made with 100% Blue Weber Agave, always additive-free, non-GMO, and gluten-free. This is where tradition meets edge, where craftsmanship fuels culture. From fashion to music, nightlife to art, Leon Y Sol moves with the pulse of those who create, disrupt, and demand more from every moment. This isn't just what tequila tastes like. It's what modern luxury feels like. Media Contact: Elisa Rocha 949-677-4878 [email protected] SOURCE Leon Y Sol, Inc. LONDON and NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mace Group has announced a majority investment in Mace Consult by Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives through a carve-out from Mace Group. The new partnership will support Mace Consult's ambition to become the world's leading programme management consultant as an independent business. Mace Consult is a critical delivery partner for the world's most complex and marquee infrastructure and built environment projects, including the Hudson Tunnel Project in New York, Qiddiya in Saudi Arabia and the New Hospitals Programme in the UK. Mace Consult generated 687 million (US$859 million) of revenue in 2024 and employs more than 5,200 people across four global hubs: Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa. Davendra Dabasia will continue to lead Mace Consult as CEO of the independent business. Over the last three decades, Mace Consult's expert teams have advised clients on the development and delivery of iconic programmes around the world; from global mega-events such as the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Dubai Expo 2020, to multibillion-dollar infrastructure investments such as the Metrolinx GO and Subways rail programmes in Canada and the National Infrastructure Reconstruction programme in Peru. A number of Mace Group's shareholders, including Executive Chair Mark Reynolds and Mace Group CEO Jason Millett, will retain a minority stake in Mace Consult and will work closely with Goldman Sachs Alternatives as members of the new Mace Consult Board. Mark Reynolds will be appointed Chair. Building on over a decade of sustained double-digit organic growth and an expansion into delivering major programmes across the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa, the new partnership will see Mace Consult target strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in key growth markets. Mark Reynolds, Mace Group's Executive Chair, said: "This transaction is a key milestone in securing the long-term future of Mace Consult, enabling the next phase of growth for our global consultancy practice. The shareholders, the board and I are extremely proud of the progress we've made collectively to achieve this outcome. "Since 1990, and accelerating since the success of the London 2012 Olympics, Mace Consult has transformed the industries it serves, delivering to exceptional standards and redefining the boundaries of ambition. We have established a foundation to enable the business to flourish for decades to come Jose Barreto, Partner within Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, added: "We are delighted to invest in Mace Consult and accelerate its growth trajectory as an independent business both organically and through strategic acquisitions. Through the global Goldman Sachs network and value acceleration resources, we see the potential to support Mace in delivering critical client outcomes during this period of heightened uncertainty and transformation. Davendra Dabasia, Mace Consult's CEO, said: "I am excited to lead Mace Consult on this next stage in our journey, working in close partnership with Goldman Sachs Alternatives. Our teams around the world have delivered exceptional growth over the past few years, and our new partnership will enable us to build on that to become the world's leading delivery consultant. "As a standalone business, we will be positioned to further support our global infrastructure and built environment clients by scaling up at pace in North America and enhancing our digital solution delivery for clients. Alex Mass, Managing Director within Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, added: "The long-dated trends of climate change, technological disruption, demographic shifts and urbanisation represent one of the fundamental project delivery challenges in history, requiring innovative management approaches, as demonstrated by Mace Consult over the years. "As an independent business, Mace Consult is distinctly positioned to support clients in unlocking the full potential of every project around the world - and we are proud to support the employees of Mace Consult in this journey." Mace Group was advised by UBS (M&A) and Linklaters (Legal). Goldman Sachs Alternatives was advised by Lazard (M&A and Financing), Jefferies International Limited (M&A) and White & Case (Legal). The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals (amongst other conditions) and is expected to close in 2025. About Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS) is one of the leading investors in alternatives globally, with over $500 billion in assets and more than 30 years of experience. The business invests in the full spectrum of alternatives including private equity, growth equity, private credit, real estate, infrastructure, sustainability, and hedge funds. Clients access these solutions through direct strategies, customized partnerships, and open-architecture programmes. The business is driven by a focus on partnership and shared success with its clients, seeking to deliver long-term investment performance drawing on its global network and deep expertise across industries and markets. The alternative investments platform is part of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, which delivers investment and advisory services across public and private markets for the world's leading institutions, financial advisors and individuals. Goldman Sachs has approximately $3.3 trillion in assets under supervision globally as of June 30, 2025. Established in 1986, Private Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives has invested over $75 billion since inception. The business combines a global network of relationships, unique insight across markets, industries and regions, and the worldwide resources of Goldman Sachs to build businesses and accelerate value creation across its portfolios. Follow us on LinkedIn. About Mace Group Mace Group is a global company of programme and project delivery consultants and construction experts. Through its two engines Consult and Construct it provides a range of delivery-focused services across the property and infrastructure sector, bringing to life iconic skyscrapers, hyper-scale regeneration projects, state-of-the-art data centres, life science facilities, and social infrastructure that supports communities across the world. Mace Group has an annual turnover of 2.79 billion (US$3.49 billion) and employs over 8,100 people across four global hubs in the UK and Europe; the Middle East and Africa; the Americas; and Asia Pacific. Find out more at www.macegroup.com. SOURCE Mace Group S.T.A.R.T. program empowers school bus drivers and transportation staff to identify, prevent, and respond immediately to active threats before they escalate. CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 25 million students ride the bus to school each day yet most drivers have never been trained to respond to an active threat. That's about to change. S.T.A.R.T. (School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training) is launching a national Back-to-School effort to equip drivers and transportation teams with the training they need to recognize, prevent, and respond to active threats before police arrive. While most safety funding has traditionally focused on buildings, S.T.A.R.T. emphasizes that buses are rolling classrooms and deserve the same attention when it comes to active threat prevention and response. S.T.A.R.T.'s hands-on, scenario-based training equips drivers and transportation staff with the skills to recognize abnormal behavior, identify potential threats, and respond decisively in the critical moments before law enforcement arrives. More than 25 million students in grades K through 12 ride a school bus daily, on nearly half a million buses, making approximately 10 billion trips per year, according to the New York School Bus Contractors Association. "School buses are often the first and last point of contact for students each day," said Jim Levine, CEO of S.T.A.R.T. "The bus driver, in essence, is the first responder. Our training ensures drivers and transportation teams are prepared to protect students and themselves, providing parents and school administrators with peace of mind." S.T.A.R.T. helps school districts meet driver professional development requirements while reinforcing their duty to protect students from the moment they step on the bus until the moment they return home. Training can be scheduled year-round to accommodate bus driver availability, funding cycles and staff schedules. Law enforcement partners are also encouraged to participate, reinforcing a coordinated community response to protecting students from active threats. About S.T.A.R.T. Founded in 2015 by a former School Resource Officer who recognized a critical gap in student safety, S.T.A.R.T. (School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training) empowers school bus drivers and transportation staff to prevent, recognize, and respond to active threats. Based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, S.T.A.R.T. operates nationwide and delivers hands-on, scenario-based training grounded in real-world experience to school districts and transportation providers. The organization is comprised of active-duty and former law enforcement officers, SWAT team members, U.S. Secret Service personnel, crisis intervention specialists, and mental health professionals. S.T.A.R.T. supports a year-round culture of preparedness from the moment students board the bus to the moment they return home. For more information, visit www. https://www.schoolbusstart.com. Media Contact Mike Lawson S.T.A.R.T. Communications Director Cell: 513-432-2358 Email: [email protected] SOURCE S.T.A.R.T. MINNEAPOLIS, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thrifty Traveler - New research and analysis from the leading travel site Thrifty Traveler shows that the largest U.S. airlines have resumed charging higher fares for most one-way domestic flights than they do on roundtrip bookings. An infographic showing the prevalence of higher one-way domestic fares Thrifty Traveler searched and analyzed 2,000 domestic flights, comparing prices for 1,000 one-way flights against 1,000 with a return added. That analysis found that the nation's five largest airlines were charging higher fares on more than 50% of one-way domestic flights - not half the cost of a roundtrip, which had been the norm for years. The higher fares on one-way bookings ranged from just a few dollars more each way to charging two to three times more for a one-way ticket than the total cost of a roundtrip. These findings signal a stark change in how airlines set prices. Higher one-way fares largely disappeared from domestic flights years ago, leading more and more travelers to book flights separately for greater flexibility. "Higher one-way fares for long international flights have been the norm forever, but that practice vanished from domestic flights long ago: You could almost always book a one-way flight within the U.S. for half the price of a roundtrip. Not anymore," said Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler. "While the return to charging pricier one-way fares is likely designed to punish business travelers, this should serve as a warning to all American travelers: Booking your domestic flights separately may now be costing you dearly." For more details and analysis, check out the full report. Big Takeaways While major U.S. airlines are now penalizing more than half of domestic one-way flights, the findings of this research go even deeper: Delta Air Lines has gone further than any U.S. carrier, charging higher fares on more than 66% of its domestic one-way flights, according to Thrifty Traveler's analysis. No other airline charged higher one-way fares on more than 51% of flights. One-way domestic flights booked close to departure are far more likely to incur higher fares. One-way flights booked 60-plus days before departure were more expensive than the per-segment roundtrip cost in 47% of cases. Within 30 days of departure, that increased to 75%. And within the last two weeks, airlines were charging higher one-way fares on 91.1% of flights. Weekdays are critical. Frequent business travel days like Sundays, Thursdays, and especially Fridays were the most likely to see one-way penalties, while flights departing Tuesdays and Wednesdays were the least likely to be penalized, at 35% or less. Methodology Thrifty Traveler analyzed 2,000 domestic fares from the five largest U.S. airlinesAlaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and Unitedby comparing one-way ticket prices from major hubs to randomly selected destinations, then comparing those prices against roundtrip fares. This research was performed earlier this month for travel dates throughout the calendar. About Thrifty Traveler Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Thrifty Traveler is a leading travel and flight deal website that sends hundreds of thousands of travelers cheap airfare alerts as well as points and miles deals every day while also covering the ins and outs of the airline and travel industries. More than 1.1 million travelers rely on Thrifty Traveler for flight deals, travel tips, advanced guides to redeeming credit card points and airline miles, and expert industry analysis. Media Contact Kyle Potter [email protected] 218-522-1505 SOURCE Thrifty Traveler RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- New Venture Escrow, a leading independent escrow company known for its proprietary technology and agent-first approach, announces the opening of its sixth office in Rancho Mirage, California. The expansion is powered by a trusted local team: Julie Ekstrom, Priscilla Guzman, and Gina Malloch - seasoned escrow professionals with deep community ties and a proven track record of high-touch, dependable service. New Venture Escrow New Venture Escrow Expands to Rancho Mirage with Trusted Local Team, Offering Unmatched Support for Real Estate Agents Recognized for their experience and local insight, Julie, Priscilla, and Gina bring decades of personalized service and trusted relationships to New Venture's newest location. Their leadership ensures agents in the region gain support beyond the transaction. In a first for the region, this office also includes dedicated sales and marketing support, providing real estate agents with added resources to grow their business and streamline transactions. "We're excited to support this incredible core group of people, while bringing The New Venture Way to the growing desert market," said Casey LeBlanc, President of New Venture Escrow. This expansion places New Venture Escrow at the center of a booming market - one that's long been underserved by modern escrow solutions. The company's blend of innovative systems and experienced professionals brings an elevated experience to the agent community. The Rancho Mirage office will introduce the region to New Venture's signature approach, and proprietary tools to help agents grow their business - All designed to simplify transactions and help agents grow and increase their business. With a powerhouse team at the helm and a future-focused model, New Venture Escrow is positioned to lead in one of Southern California's most dynamic real estate markets. About New Venture Escrow New Venture Escrow is an independent escrow provider transforming the industry through proprietary technology and a commitment to efficiency, transparency, and service. With six offices across Southern California and escrow services available worldwide, the company supports real estate professionals with systems that elevate both agent and client experiences. New Venture Escrow Rancho Mirage Phone: (760) 563-2205 Email: [email protected] Website: NewVentureEscrow.com SOURCE New Venture Escrow LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- No new drilling permits for oil and gas wells were approved in the second quarter of 2025, extending a promising trend in reduced fossil fuel development over the last two years under Governor Gavin Newsom's administration. However, Consumer Watchdog and FracTracker Alliance warn that this progress could be reversed if state leaders allow Kern County to fast-track thousands of new drilling permits under a controversial local ordinance. New proposed legislation could open the door to as many as 4,700 new drilling permits in its first year that would not be subject to environmental review, according to FracTracker's analysis. Since taking office in January 2019, Governor Newsom's administration has approved about 18,515 oil and gas permits. While this figure is high, annual permit approvals have sharply declined during his tenure. In 2019, the state issued 2,366 new drilling permits. By comparison, just 73 were approved in all of 2024, and only 4 have been granted in the first half of 2025. This downward trajectory reflects a deliberate shift away from oil and gas expansion, but that momentum is now at risk. In June, the Kern County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a revised oil and gas ordinance that would permit roughly 2,700 new wells per year in unincorporated areas, based on a single EIR. Courts had previously struck down two similar attempts due to failures to evaluate key environmental risks, including air and water quality, noise, cancer risk, and farmland impacts. It is up to Newsom to decide whether to back CalGEM's authority to deny permits based on insufficient environmental review or to direct CalGEM to accept the fast-tracked permitting without the agency's environmental review. "This ordinance would be a dangerous reversal of Governor Newsom's commitment to rein in the oil industry," said Liza Tucker, consumer advocate at Consumer Watchdog. "If Kern County is allowed to greenlight thousands of new oil wells annually, it would be a catastrophe for California's climate goalsand for Newsom's environmental legacy. This will haunt him." Kyle Ferrar, Western Program Director at FracTracker Alliance, echoed those concerns. "California is emerging as a climate leader in the U.S., but we still have a long way to go to match the progress of countries like China and those in Europe that are aggressively investing in renewable energy. To stay on track, California must continue to scale back oil and gas extraction and invest more in renewable energy, energy storage, and energy efficiency." Adding to the concern, the Governor's Office is drafting legislation that would codify the Kern ordinance . If passed, the bill could shield the ordinance from further legal challenges and sidestep CalGEM, the state's oil and gas regulatory agency, by weakening environmental oversight. The proposed legislation could open the door to as many as 4,700 new drilling permits in its first year, none of which would be subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). "The Governor's supposed reason for approving new wells in Kern County is to keep the pipelines to Northern California refineries operating," said Tucker. "But expanding drilling across the entire state goes far beyond that purpose. It's nothing more than a giveaway to oil companies that have already caused significant environmental damage. If passed, this legislation could set a dangerous precedent for the Central Coast and other oil-producing counties like Contra Costa, Fresno, and Kings." Although no new oil drilling permits were approved in the second quarter, CalGEM did approve four permits for underground gas storage wells, each located within the 3,200-foot public health buffer zone established by SB 1137 to protect communities from the dangers of oil and gas operations. Additionally, seven permits were issued to rework existing wells within this buffer zone. One of these wells, in Inglewood, will be used for water flooding to extract more oil, while another in the Wilmington Oil Field will serve a similar purpose. "It's clear that increased permitting will lead to more drilling near frontline communities," said Ferrar. "While CalGEM does not seem to consider gas storage and injection wells in the same category as production, these wells support nearby production and are not benign. They are long-term sources of environmental harm." Consumer Watchdog and FracTracker Alliance are urging Governor Newsom to stay the course and protect the state's hard-won progress on climate and environmental justice. The groups are calling on the administration to reject any effort that would erode oversight, fast-track oil and gas development, or place communities at further environmental risk. Table 1. Permits by Well Types Permit Count Totals Oil and Gas Production EOR & Support O&G and EOR Totals Plugging Year New Drilling Rework/ Redrill New Drilling Rework/ Redrill New Drilling Rework/ Redrill Total Abandon 2024 Q2 28 221 7 212 35 433 468 1,142 2025 Q2 0 106 4 134 4 240 244 1,049 Percent Change: Down 100% Down 52% Down 43% Down 37% Down 89% Down 45% Down 48% Down 8% *Permits for Sidetracks and to Deepen wells are included in the Rework/Redrill counts CalGEM Data Analyzed by FracTracker Alliance SOURCE Consumer Watchdog NVTC highlights Mason's essential role in workforce development and regional economic growth under President Washington's leadership. MCLEAN, Va., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC), the region's leading technology business association, today released a formal statement of support for George Mason University (Mason) and its president, Dr. Gregory Washington. NVTC is urging chambers of commerce, associations, and other business organizations across the Commonwealth to join in recognizing Mason's pivotal role in Northern Virginia's economic future. "George Mason University has long been one of Northern Virginia's greatest economic assets due to its transformative impact on the region and significant role in driving talent, research, and economic growth," the statement begins. "As the largest public university in the Commonwealth, Mason plays a vital role in preparing the workforce that powers our region's economyfrom tech and cybersecurity to healthcare, law, public policy, education, and more." The statement calls on the Mason Board of Visitors to reaffirm its support for Mason as a critical regional asset and from Dr. Washington's strategic vision for the university. "Simply stated, Mason is advancing our regional future," the statement reads. "Over 80% of its graduates remain in Northern Virginia, contributing essential skills and leadership across key industries. Mason fuels Northern Virginia's talent engine, with academic programs tailored to the region's evolving industry needs." NVTC notes that Mason's progress under Dr. Washington has included significant growth in research capacity, deeper partnerships with private industry, and expanded pathways to opportunity for students from all backgrounds. The university is recognized nationally for its focus on innovation, workforce readiness, inclusive excellence, and real-world learning. "Mason is a cornerstone of Northern Virginia's economic strength, and its students are the future of our workforce," said Jennifer Taylor NVTC president and CEO. "We support Dr. Washington because his vision aligns with the needs of our business communityand because collaboration between the private sector and higher education has never been more important." A Call to Action NVTC invites chambers of commerce, associations, and business organizations across the Commonwealth to join them in supporting George Mason University and its essential role in delivering a skilled workforce and expanding the economy. Organizations currently aligned with NVTC's statement include: Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) Northern Virginia Chamber (NVC) Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce Prince William Chamber of Commerce About the Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) NVTC is the trade association representing the Northern Virginia technology community. As one of the nation's largest technology councils, NVTC serves companies from all sectors of the industry, from small businesses and startups to Fortune 100 technology companies, government contractors, as well as service providers, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. More than 500 members look to the organization as a resource for networking and educational opportunities, peer-to-peer communities, policy advocacy, industry promotion, fostering of strategic relationships, and branding of the region as a major global technology center. Learn more at www.nvtc.org. SOURCE Northern Virginia Technology Council REDWOOD CITY, Calif., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontinue, a leading provider of AI-powered managed extended detection and response (MXDR) services and winner of the 2023 Microsoft Security Services Innovator of the Year award, has been named the winner of a Bronze Stevie Award in the 10th annual Stevie Awards for Great Employers. The Stevie Awards for Great Employers recognize the world's best employers and the human resources professionals, teams, achievements and HR-related products and suppliers who help to create and drive great places to work. More than 1,000 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 35 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of HR-related categories. More than 100 professionals from around the world participated in the judging process to determine this year's honorees. Winners in the Employer of the Year categories were determined by a combination of ratings from Stevie Awards judges and more than 130,000 public votes. Ontinue was recognized for its outstanding commitment to creating a people-first culture that prioritizes engagement, inclusion, and continuous growth. Judges noted Ontinue's ability to foster a high-trust environment where employees feel supported, heard, and empowered to thrive. Through its emphasis on career development, diversity, and open communication, Ontinue has cultivated a workplace that stands out in the competitive cybersecurity industry. Its employee experience is shaped by intentional programs focused on leadership accessibility, well-being, and meaningful connectionensuring every team member, no matter where they're located, feels part of a unified, purpose-driven organization. "We're incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the Stevie Awards," said Geoff Haydon, CEO of Ontinue. "This award is a reflection of the people who power Ontinue every daytheir passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence are what make us not only a leader in cybersecurity, but a truly great place to work. We will continue to invest in the people, programs, and culture that fuel our mission." "We congratulate all of the winners in the 10th edition of the Stevie Awards for Great Employers for their outstanding performance, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements on September 16," said Stevies president Maggie Miller. Details about the Stevie Awards for Great Employers and the list of 2025 Stevie winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/HR . About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com . About Ontinue: Nonstop SecOps As a leading provider of AI-powered managed extended detection and response (MXDR) service, Ontinue is on a mission to be the most trusted security partner that empowers customers to embrace and accelerate digital transformation by using AI to operate more at scale, and with less risk. The combination of AI and human expertise is essential for delivering effective managed security that is tailored to a customer's unique environment, operational constraints, and risks. Our MXDR service combines powerful proprietary AI with the industry's first collaboration with Microsoft Teams to continuously build a deep understanding of our customers' environments, informing how we prevent, detect, and respond to threats. Our Microsoft expertise allows customers to achieve these outcomes with the Microsoft Security tools they already own. The result is highly localized managed protection that empowers security teams to be faster, smarter, and more cost efficient than ever before. Continuous protection. AI-powered Nonstop SecOps. That's Ontinue. Ontinue PR Contacts: Alison Raymond [email protected] ICR Nathaniel Hawthorne [email protected] SOURCE Ontinue An aerial drone photo taken on July 19, 2025 shows the Central Business District (CBD) in Zhengdong New District of Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on March 31, 2025 shows interlaced railway tracks in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows a national archaeological park in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows the Zhongyuan fortune tower in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 19, 2025 shows the Central Business District (CBD) in Zhengdong New District of Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on April 15, 2025 shows a China-Europe freight train at Putian Station in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows the Erqi Square in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 19, 2025 shows the Central Business District (CBD) in Zhengdong New District of Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 19, 2025 shows the Central Business District (CBD) in Zhengdong New District of Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows the Central Business District (CBD) in Zhengdong New District of Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 16, 2025 shows a wetland park in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows a financial island in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows the Zhengzhou Railway Station in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 19, 2025 shows the Zhengzhou East Railway Station in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows a section of the Yellow River in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows the Erqi memorial tower in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows a national archaeological park in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) An aerial drone photo taken on July 17, 2025 shows the busts of Yan Emperor and Yellow Emperor, legendary ancestors of the Chinese nation, on the bank of the Yellow River in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Li Jianan) An aerial drone photo taken on May 19, 2022 shows the Yellow River national geological park in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province. Located in central China, Zhengzhou is renowned as a regional hub for sci-tech innovation, a national historical and cultural city, and an international comprehensive transportation hub. In recent years, Zhengzhou has been dedicated to promoting high-quality development, enhancing its overall competitiveness, and integrating into the national market. From July 23 to 27, Zhengzhou will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) Editor: GSY LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Viewers can prepare to discover the vibrant spirit and innovative strategies propelling a small American town forward, as "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid" highlights the City of Peru, IN. This upcoming segment will explore the proactive efforts shaping a promising future for residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs alike. "Working Together to Build a Better City" An engaging segment of "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid" will soon introduce Public Television audiences to the compelling story of the City of Peru, IN. Scheduled for filming this July, this feature will showcase how a dedicated local administration is fostering growth in a community of 11,500 people in north central Indiana. The program will illuminate the various avenues Peru is actively pursuing to attract new residents and businesses, moving beyond traditional approaches to community development. Viewers will gain insights into the collaborative spirit that aims to transform Peru into a premier destination for living, visiting, and establishing a business. This exploration will delve into the city's unique strengths and how a proactive mindset is becoming its greatest asset. This exploration will reveal the city's commitment to creating an environment ripe with opportunity. The segment will delve into the visible presence of city leadership, their active participation in local events, and the strategic engagement on social media platforms designed to promote Peru's unique advantages. It will also touch upon the invaluable practice of regular meetings with mayors from surrounding counties, providing a glimpse into the collaborative intelligence driving Peru's growth initiatives. Furthermore, the segment will highlight how the city is addressing crucial needs, such as the demand for new housing, recognizing that a growing population is foundational to attracting diverse industries and retail operations. The overarching message is one of immense opportunity and a proactive approach to economic development, emphasizing that Peru is not waiting for growth to happen but is instead making it happen. This segment is poised to inspire other small towns and inform prospective business owners and residents about the compelling reasons to consider Peru, Indiana, as their next great place to thrive. About "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid": "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid" is a Public Television program that provides viewers with insightful stories about innovative developments and their impact on various industries. Hosted by Dennis Quaid, the program aims to educate and inspire audiences by exploring the ingenuity and dedication behind organizations shaping our world. Learn more at: https://www.viewpointproject.com/ About the City of Peru, IN: The City of Peru, Indiana, is a vibrant community in north central Indiana committed to fostering growth and opportunity for its residents and businesses. Under new leadership, the city is actively promoting its unique advantages as a great place to live, raise a family, and start a business. Learn more at: www.cityofperu.org SOURCE Viewpoint TORONTO, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Power Metallic Mines Inc. (the "Company" or "Power Metallic") (TSXV: PNPN) (OTCBB: PNPNF) (Frankfurt: IVV) Power Metallic is pleased to provide an update on preliminary mineralogy scans preformed by IOS Geosciences based in Chicoutimi, Quebec. Figure 1 PGE host in massive sulphide sample, with PGE species (CNW Group/Power Metallic Mines Inc.) Figure 2 Scan of PGE Stannopalladinite hosted in massive chalcopyrite (CNW Group/Power Metallic Mines Inc.) Detailed microscopic scans are being performed on selected mineralized samples from the Lion zone to understand the characteristics of the mineralogy. This will help inform future metallurgical recovery studies on the Lion Zone. Approximately half of the suite of over 100 samples selected to represent the various mineralized zones at Lion have been completed, and results to date are encouraging for potential conventional sulphide concentrate recovery methods. The Lion deposit has two zones of mineralization defined by drilling, consisting of a High-Grade zone and a lower grade Hanging-wall Zone. Current understanding is that the vast majority of the metal value in the deposit is contained within the High-Grade zone, consisting of semi-massive to massive copper sulphide mineralization. The scans by IOS reveal the mineralogy of the economic metals, and their host rocks. This characterization is critical for determining potential metallurgical recoveries, in particular for understanding the mineral species of the high value copper and PGEs. Of utmost importance is understanding the characteristics of the High-Grade Zone containing the bulk of the metal in the deposit. Work to date has shown that the copper mineralization is contained within coarse grained chalcopyrite and cubanite, both which should respond well to conventional sulphide concentration methods, similar to processes carried out on Sudbury type ores. Additionally, the scans have shown that the majority of PGE mineral species occur within or attached to the chalcopyrite and cubanite (Figure 1). This suggests the potential for very good recovery of these PGEs in a copper concentrate (Figure 2). In addition, the species of PGE minerals including stannopalladinite, froodite, and merenskyite are minerals that are similar to those recovered in other polymetallic ores, such as the Sudbury basin deposits and Norilsk. Overall, the character of the mineralization and the host sulphides suggest that good recoveries of both the copper minerals and the PGEs can be expected in conventional sulphide concentration recovery methods. Mineralogy and Metallurgical Timeline Mineralogy testing is expected to be complete by the end of summer. Upon completion initial scoping-level metallurgical testing will be started. Aiming to evaluate the optimal recovery method for the deposit. Targeting the start of this work prior to the commencement of the winter drill program, with initial results expected early next year. Qualified Person Joseph Campbell, P.Geo, VP Exploration at Power Metallic, is the qualified person who has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. About Power Metallic Mines Inc. Power Metallic is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing the Nisk Project Area (NiskLionTiger)a highgrade CopperPGE, Nickel, gold and silver systemtoward Canada's next polymetallic mine. On 1 February 2021, Power Metallic (then Chilean Metals) secured an option to earn up to 80% of the Nisk project from Critical Elements Lithium Corp. (TSXV: CRE). Following the June 2025 purchase of 313 adjoining claims (~167 km) from LiFT Power, the Company now controls ~212.86 km and roughly 50 km of prospective basin margins. Power Metallic is expanding mineralization at the Nisk and Lion discovery zones, evaluating the Tiger target, and exploring the enlarged land package through successive drill programs. Beyond the Nisk Project Area, Power Metallic indirectly has an interest in significant land packages in British Columbia and Chile, by its 50% share ownership position in Chilean Metals Inc., which were spun out from Power Metallic via a plan of arrangement on February 3, 2025. It also owns 100% of Power Metallic Arabia which owns 100% interest in the Jabul Baudan exploration license in The Kingdon of Saudi Arabia's JabalSaid Belt. The property encompasses over 200 square kilometres in an area recognized for its high prospectivity for copper gold and zinc mineralization. The region is known for its massive volcanic sulfide (VMS) deposits, including the world-class Jabal Sayid mine and the promising Umm and Damad deposit. For further information, readers are encouraged to contact: Power Metallic Mines Inc. The Canadian Venture Building 82 Richmond St East, Suite 202 Toronto, ON Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This message contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" concerning the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential," "indicates," "opportunity," "possible" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, among others; the timing for various drilling plans; the ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward and conduct drilling and exploration; to maintain its mineral tenures and concessions in good standing; to explore and develop its projects; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associates with mineral exploration and mining operations; future prices of nickel and other metals; changes in general economic conditions; accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates; the potential for new discoveries; the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the projects and if accepted, to obtain such licenses and approvals in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the applicable project; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; and changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, dependence on key management personnel and general competition in the mining industry. SOURCE Power Metallic Mines Inc. New facility will open in August 2025, offering enhanced learning and therapy spaces to support more students STERLING, Va., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rivermont Schools is proud to announce its Sterling campus relocation to Reston, to provide more students in Virginia with access to academic programming infused with therapeutic support. Serving students for more than 35 years in the Commonwealth, Rivermont Schools are private, licensed, therapeutic day schools serving students ages 522 with emotional and behavioral challenges, autism, and other special needs. With 17 campuses across Virginia, Rivermont Schools provide a safe, supportive, and structured environment where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. The Rivermont Sterling campus is preparing to relocate from its current location (45305 Catalina Ct, Suite 101 Sterling, VA 20166) to a newly renovated and purpose-built facility at 11411 Isaac Newton Square South, Reston, VA, 20190. The move is expected to be completed by August 2025, in time for the start of the 20252026 school year. "What excites me most about our move to Reston is the opportunity it creates for our students to learn and grow in an environment built just for them and those we wish to serve," said Aniqua Sterling, Principal at Rivermont Schools' Sterling campus. "Our students face unique challenges, and they deserve unique solutions. This new campus represents our commitment to providing not just education, but hope, a place where every student can discover their potential and build toward a brighter future." The school is making this move to support continued growth and to provide an even better learning environment for its students. The new campus will feature modern classrooms, life skills rooms, therapy and specialty areas, and an outdoor playgroundall intentionally designed to meet the needs of Rivermont students. "This move represents more than a new building. It's an investment in the future of our students and staff," said Brandon Timmons, Regional Vice President at Rivermont Schools. "Every detail of the new campus has been designed to support student growth, empower our team, and strengthen the positive outcomes we strive for every day." Families and community partners will be invited to tour the new campus in the coming months as renovations near completion. About Rivermont Schools Located throughout Virginia, Rivermont schools provide a therapeutic educational program for students ages 5-22 in grades kindergarten through 12 with special needs, including those associated with autism spectrum disorder, behavioral challenges, and have difficulty learning in a traditional school setting. Rivermont Schools is part of the New Story network of schools and services. SOURCE Rivermont Schools Representing the halfway point on the path to its 2030 ESG action plan, RS Group's 2024/25 ESG report reveals clear progress, along with a sharper focus on creating long-term value for all stakeholders. FORT WORTH, Texas, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a high-service global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, released its 2024/25 ESG Report, which reveals significant progress toward its 2030 ESG action plan, For a Better World. Now at the halfway mark, RS Group continues to embed sustainability at the core of its strategy and operations, with a sharpened focus on long-term value creation for all stakeholders. Following a company-wide double materiality assessment to identify its greatest ESG-related impacts, risks, and opportunities, RS Group refined the four global ESG goals in this year's report to better align the company's ESG efforts with its strategic priorities, stakeholder expectations, and opportunities for long-term value creation. The four global ESG areas of focus, which encompass a total of 14 ambitions, are now: advancing sustainability, empowering our people, championing youth and communities, and doing business responsibly. RS Group's strategy and operations are embedded in sustainability and focused on creating long-term stakeholder value. Post this The 2024/25 ESG Report highlights RS Group's continued efforts and achievements in each of these four areas. In terms of advancing sustainability, RS Group is: Delivering a better customer experience through a more sustainable distribution service with a 7% year-over-year reduction in direct CO emissions, achieving a 64% reduction from 2019/20 baseline. Introducing smarter packaging that is made to fit, contains recycled content, and produces less waste. 94% of RS packaging is now recyclable, and 82% contains more than 50% recycled content. Additionally, due to strong progress on packaging reduction, RS Group has extended its packaging intensity reduction target from 30% to 45% by 2029/30. Sourcing, storing, and shipping products closer to customers, achieving a 26% reduction in Scope 3 product transport emissions intensity since 2019/20. As part of the momentum to further reduce transport CO emissions intensity, RS Group has extended its 2030 targets from 25% to 35%. Providing customers with solutions to improve efficiency, cut costs, and meet rising ESG standards with 30,000+ Better World products across 345 product families and 132 suppliers, available in 30 countries. In terms of empowering its people, RS Group is: Creating an environment where everyone can perform at their best, develop, and thrive by embedding its four global values, launching a new employer value proposition, Go Beyond Amazing, and increasing representation of female leaders by 3% to 37% since 2023/2024. Strengthening its behavior-based safety culture across all operations and employees, which have collectively completed nearly 27,000 hours of comprehensive health & safety training thus far. In terms of championing youth & communities, RS Group is: Investing in the next generation of engineers and industrial innovators by supporting over 913,000 young people with skills opportunities since 2020/2021. Creating a lasting impact on its industry and society by raising over $1,1 million for The Washing Machine Project since 2020/2021, launching a new community giving fund, and enabling 30% of employees to volunteer in the past two years. In terms of doing Business Responsibly, RS Group is: Collaborating with over 2,500+ suppliers to raise ethical and environmental standards across the value chain. 55% of RS suppliers by spend are now EcoVadis rated and 38% have set science-based targets. Earning a place on CDP's prestigious A-List for climate action and transparency, retaining EcoVadis Platinum status for the third consecutive year, and being listed amongst TIME magazine's World's Most Sustainable Companies 2025 for a second consecutive year. Strategic Alignment Driving Future Growth The creation of a new Chief Sustainability Officer role has brought RS Group's sustainability and social impact teams together, ensuring a more cohesive and focused approach. The Group's ESG strategy is also enabling stronger, more strategic partnerships with customers and suppliers, particularly in the areas of sustainable product development, supply chain decarbonization, and community engagement. "We are proud of the strides we've made towards our 2030 goals," said Andrea Barrett, Chief Sustainability Officer at RS Group. "As we move closer to our targets, our strong approach and commitment to sustainability continues to put us at the heart of a more sustainable and responsible global industrial sector, strengthening strategic partnerships with customers and suppliers. By collaborating with our value chain partners, we're expanding sustainable product and service offerings, enhancing our distribution network, and advancing toward net zero goals. We know that strong sustainability performance is not only essential to the planet and society; it's integral to our strategic progression and future success. We look forward to continuing to make amazing happen for a better world, together." When looking ahead to the next five years, RS Group continues to prioritize accountability and value creation as it aims to build a more sustainable future. The full 2024/25 ESG Report is available here. About RS RS is a high-service global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, enabling them to operate efficiently and sustainably. We operate in 36 markets, stock over 830,000 industrial and specialist products, and list an additional five million relevant for our industrial customers, sourced from over 2,500 suppliers. This extensive range supports our customers across the industrial lifecycle of designing, building, and maintaining equipment and operations. We enhance their experience through a tailored service model, leveraging our efficient physical, digital, and process infrastructure sustainably. We combine a technically led and digitally enabled approach with an exceptional team of experts; ultimately, it's our people that make the difference. Our purpose, making amazing happen for a better world, reflects our focus on delivering results for people, planet, and profit. RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2025 reported revenue of 2,904 million. For more information, please visit https://www.rsgroup.com/ or connect with us on LinkedIn or X (Twitter) . About RS in the Americas In the Americas region, RS stocks more than 250,000 industrial and electronic products from more than 700 trusted suppliers . These solutions cover categories extending from automation and control equipment to interconnect, passive, active, and electromechanical components and include more than 90,000 high-quality, competitively priced RS PRO products. For more information, please visit https://us.rs-online.com or connect with us via social media on Facebook , X (Twitter) , LinkedIn , and YouTube . Editorial Contact & Media Inquiries: Erica Goode, RS Director of Marketing U.S. and Canada [email protected] SOURCE RS JERSEY CITY, N.J., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sands Point Risk, a multi-program MGA platform backed by Avesi Partners, is pleased to announce its acquisition of BRM Specialty Markets, a leading medical stop-loss managing general underwriter based in Philadelphia. This acquisition combines the strengths of both organizations and marks a significant step forward in both companies' missions to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions across the insurance industry. As a Sands Point Company, BRM will continue to operate independently under its established brand with its full founding leadership and team remaining in place, while gaining access to Sands Point's extensive resources and broader service capabilities. "We are excited to welcome BRM to the Sands Point family and will benefit greatly from their exceptional team, deep domain expertise and the reputation and trust they have earned in the market," said Dennis Kearns, CEO of Sands Point Risk. "This is about growing togethersupporting BRM's vision while delivering Sands Point's exceptional underwriting and service that our customers and partners have come to expect." "BRM has been built on the foundation of strong relationships, customer service, and consistent results. Partnering with Sands Point allows BRM to propel our strategic vision to grow and scale, without changing the core of who we are, said Roman McDonald, Founder and Managing Partner of BRM. About Sands Point Risk Sands Point Risk is an insurance platform uniquely focused on supporting expanded opportunities for managing general underwriters across a spectrum of financial lines and property and casualty insurance offerings. Sands Point Risk's mission is to empower businesses by addressing their risks, fostering their confidence, and allowing them to thrive. Led by an executive team with decades of experience in underwriting, claims, law, mergers & acquisitions, and insurance product development, we are committed to delivering exceptional underwriting and service for our clients' risk management needs. About BRM BRM is a Medical Stop Loss Managing General Underwriter that was founded by brokers/consultants for brokers/consultants. The BRM team understands the struggles that consultants and brokers face each day and provide underwriting solutions to help them gain and retain more clients. Their goal is to make stop-loss placement as easy and efficient as possible while providing a competitive and sustainable option for a long-term partnership. They work with A-rated carrier partners that support their business philosophy and approach to the marketplace. About Avesi Partners Avesi Partners, with offices in Stamford, CT and Richmond, VA, is a private equity firm focused on partnering with lower-middle market privately held and family-owned businesses in key sectors of the economy, including healthcare services and business & financial services. With over $2 billion of committed capital, Avesi seeks to provide the expertise and resources to empower businesses to attain their full vision in a time and capital efficient manner. Avesi's goal is to collaborate with families, founders and executives to accelerate growth and expansion while positioning the businesses to achieve long-term success and enduring value. SOURCE Sands Point Risk Agency LLC NEW YORK and LONDON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) today announced the signing of a new multi-year strategic agreement with Barclays. The mutually beneficial agreement includes access to a comprehensive suite of S&P Global products, data, and solutions, powered by S&P Capital IQ Pro platform, to support Barclays' businesses across its enterprise and help enhance the bank's offerings to its own customers. As part of the agreement, Barclays will contribute its data to S&P Global's cross-asset pricing and valuation services, enhancing accuracy and coverage in bonds, loans, credit and derivative pricing across the liquidity spectrum. This multi-year agreement highlights S&P Global's integrated and comprehensive approach to supporting its clients' evolving needs and bringing the full depth and breadth of its capabilities through the Chief Client Office. "S&P Global and Barclays' strategic agreement marks an exciting milestone that further strengthens a relationship between two deeply trusted and longstanding institutions," said Sally Moore, Chief Client Officer at S&P Global. "Through this agreement, we are empowering the Barclays enterprise to access our world-class research, data, and solutions, including full access to S&P Capital IQ, enabling deeper insights and accelerating innovation in an ever-evolving market." "We are delighted to execute this strategic deal with S&P Global, a trusted long-term partner of Barclays," said Stephen Dainton, President of Barclays Bank PLC and Head of Investment Bank Management. "S&P's unique data, scale, and commitment to innovation will enable Barclays to continue executing against our business strategy. Barclays is committed to helping clients navigate rapidly shifting market conditions - providing them with liquidity and expert advice." "We're proud to partner closely with Barclays, equipping them with the highest quality and most trusted data to help serve their customers and accelerate their digital transformation," said Saugata Saha, Chief Enterprise Data Officer at S&P Global and President of S&P Global Market Intelligence. "Behind the power of S&P Capital IQ, and S&P Global's vast data estate, we look forward to building on our longstanding relationship to drive smarter insights and unlock greater opportunities for growth and innovation." S&P Capital IQ Pro is an integrated platform built to address the dynamic and evolving needs of financial institutions and corporations. It enables users to drive growth, manage risk, and navigate global developments through high-quality, differentiated data, integrated research, and advanced analytics. To learn more about S&P Capital IQ Pro and its underlying datasets, visit: spglobal.com/startwithdata. Media Contacts: S&P Global April Kabahar Chief Client Office +1 917-796-3121 [email protected] Farhan Husain S&P Global Market Intelligence +1 347-213-0065 [email protected] Barclays Oksana Poltavets +1 212-526-0945 [email protected] About S&P Global S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides Essential Intelligence. We enable governments, businesses and individuals with the right data, expertise and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through sustainability and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and Accelerate Progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world's leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world's leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today. For more information, visit www.spglobal.com SOURCE S&P Global HOUSTON, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TMEIC Corporation Americas, a group company of TMEIC Corporation (Japan), officially opened its new North American headquarters in the Houston Energy Corridor, marking a major milestone in TMEIC's global strategy and expansion across the Americas. The inauguration ceremony brought together industry leaders, government representatives, business partners, and TMEIC colleagues. Manmeet S. Bhatia, President & CEO of TMEIC Corporation Americas, addressed the audience, emphasizing the company's heritage, growth, and vision for the future. "This milestone is the result of our vision, the path forged by those before us, and the unwavering commitment of our team," said Bhatia. "We are thrilled to be part of the vibrant Greater Houston community and look forward to expanding our business in North America's energy hub." TMEIC extended appreciation to Governor Greg Abbott's office, officials from Waller County, U.S. Representatives Wesley Hunt, Michael McCaul, and Morgan Luttrell, and the Greater Houston Partnership for their essential support in enabling this milestone. The decision to relocate its North American headquarters to Houston, Texasand significantly expand its U.S. manufacturing capabilitiesaligns with TMEIC's strategic goals for growth in renewable energy technology, domestic manufacturing, and bolstering its global sustainability efforts. The new Houston headquarters will foster innovation, accommodate TMEIC's growing team, and enhance its ability to serve clients in critical industries. TMEIC Corporation Americas employs over 900 people globally, including approximately 500 in the Houston area. The company plans to increase its Houston workforce over the next several years as part of this expansion. TMEIC will continue to maintain its Roanoke, Virginia office, which remains essential to the company's global operations. Roanoke will focus on the design, development, and engineering of advanced automation systems, large AC motors, and variable frequency drive systems for industrial sectors worldwide. TMEIC's presence in Houston reflects its continued investment in advancing energy technologies, fostering strong client relationships, and delivering reliable, American-manufactured solutions. "With the global momentum toward decarbonization, electrification, and domestic manufacturing resurgence, we are well-positioned for continued growth," Bhatia added. "Together, we will continue to drive industry and uphold our legacy as a global leader in energy and industrial solutions." TMEIC remains dedicated to driving innovation, technological excellence, and local manufacturing to support the electrification of industries, the demands of data centers, and the transition to clean energy. For more information on TMEIC's industrial technologies and renewable energy solutions, please visit www.tmeic.com. Media inquiries: Tricia Downie, Senior Marketing Communications Manager [email protected] About TMEIC Corporation In order to respond to the needs of manufacturing sites that serve as a foundation for supporting society, TMEIC always sets its eyes on the future of industry, society and the environment as an industrial systems integrator striking a balance between the sustainable development of society and the global environment. TMEIC will contribute to manufacturing and environmental management through leading-edge technologies based on its core technologies of rotating machinery, power electronics and engineering. About TMEIC Corporation Americas TMEIC Corporation Americas, headquartered in Houston, TX, designs, develops, and engineers advanced automation, large AC and DC motors, photovoltaic inverters, and variable frequency drive systems, with manufacturing facilities in Brookshire and Katy, TX. TMEIC Corporation Americas specializes in Renewable Energy, Metals, Port Solutions, Oil & Gas, Mining, Paper, Water & Wastewater, and other industrial markets worldwide. We drive industry. www.tmeic.com SOURCE TMEIC Corporation Americas DENVER, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- UnionHub, a fintech and insurtech platform purpose-built for TPAs, brokers, associations, and insurance carriers, has officially launched its all-in-one benefits and payment ecosystem. Designed to scale effortlessly from 1,000 users to over 1 million, UnionHub is tackling one of the industry's oldest challenges: making benefits administration simple, fast, and truly integrated. Ed Haley President Built entirely in-house by a Denver-based team, UnionHub is a fully bespoke platform that eliminates the need for patchwork software, manual data entry, and outdated payment systems. It combines benefits enrollment, compliance tracking, CRM functionality, ACH and payment processing, and real-time reporting into a single, unified hub. "We asked ourselves a simple question," said Edward Haley, Founder of UnionHub. "Can we manage benefits for a million members with the same resources it takes to handle a thousand? When we found no scalable solution that could deliver, we built our own." UnionHub's proprietary Pay Day Deduction System enables seamless collection of insurance premiums and membership fees through ACH withdrawals synced directly with payroll cycles. This significantly reduces missed payments, billing errors, and administrative overhead. The platform's self-service portal empowers employees and members to manage their benefits, make payments, and access support independently, increasing engagement while reducing the burden on administrative teams. UnionHub was also built to be LIMRA-compliant, aligning with the industry's most widely accepted standards for data exchange, security, and carrier integration. By supporting LIMRA's Data Exchange (LDEx) Standards, the platform enables secure and efficient transfer of enrollment, billing, and eligibility data between vendors and carriers. This compliance helps streamline onboarding with top insurance providers, reduces integration costs, and ensures interoperability with existing carrier systems while meeting rigorous expectations for data protection and transactional reliability. UnionHub is breathing new life into a stagnant insurance ecosystem. By adding new coverages, enrolling previously unreached workers, and driving premium volume at scale, UnionHub expands the voluntary benefits space in ways the industry has not seen before. This growth fuels innovation, delivers data-driven insights to carriers, and helps create smarter, more inclusive products. It delivers a true win-win-win for employees, employers, unions, associations, and insurance partners alike. UnionHub currently supports thousands of users daily across a wide range of industries and employers, including the more than 1.4 million members of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, one of the largest and most diverse labor unions in the United States. While best known for representing freight drivers and warehouse workers, the Teamsters' reach spans virtually every industry, including aviation, rail, logistics, and public service. Their members include employees of UPS, ABF Freight, Republic Airways, DHL, Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, Costco, and many others nationwide. UnionHub is actively expanding its footprint through partnerships with General Agents, national employers, labor associations, unions, and leading insurance carriers. The platform is now available to new clients seeking to modernize, streamline, and unify their benefits and payment systems. Key Features: End-to-end benefits administration with real-time CRM and compliance Embedded ACH payment gateway with billing and financial reporting Custom-built self-service tools for members and employees Scalable infrastructure designed for high-volume organizations "We are not a white-labeled solution. Every line of code is ours," added Haley. "We built UnionHub to grow with our clients, and the results speak for themselves." To learn more or schedule a demo, visit www.unionhub.com UnionHub is an intelligent, all-in-one platform designed to simplify benefit management for TPAs, brokers, associations, and insurance carriers. By integrating enrollment, communications, compliance, payments, and CRM into a single system, UnionHub eliminates paperwork, reduces manual tasks, and streamlines operations. The platform empowers teams to manage benefits and serve members more efficientlyall from one centralized hub. SOURCE UnionHub DENVER, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Mind, the trailblazing firm renowned for its expertise in technology development and user experience (UX) design, is spinning out from Boulder-based full-service advertising agency Human Design to pioneer transformative AI and technology solutions. This strategic move, led by Universal Mind's original founder Brett Cortese, positions the company to focus on cutting-edge artificial intelligence advancements, including corporate AI training, custom agents, and helping clients thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. The spin-out marks a new chapter for both companies, allowing each to sharpen their focus on their strengths. Universal Mind will leverage its proficiency in digital innovation to deliver AI-driven solutions that empower businesses to stay competitive. Meanwhile, Human Design will continue its trajectory as a full-service agency, building on successes, such as its award-winning campaigns, and expanding its creative and strategic offerings. Brett Cortese, Universal Mind's original founder, expressed enthusiasm about the company's renewed focus. "We've always been at the forefront of technology and design, creating solutions that people love," said Cortese. "We are providing the tools, training, and custom solutions that will enable businesses to not just adapt but lead in the AI-driven landscape." Human Design's Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, John Weiss, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the mutual benefits of the separation. "Universal Mind has been an incredible partner, and their leadership in technological solutions has been invaluable," said Weiss. "This move allows both companies to focus on what they do best. We're proud of what we've achieved together and look forward to seeing Universal Mind's continued success. Our collaboration will remain strong as we pursue new opportunities." Universal Mind's legacy of innovation includes creating transformative experiences and solutions for global brands such as Sony, Herman Miller, Adobe, and Apple. With this spin-out, Universal Mind is poised to build on that legacy by integrating AI into its suite of services, offering clients tailored technology solutions to meet the demands of AI adoption. Human Design, meanwhile, continues to thrive following a period of rapid growth. The agency has made headlines with its acquisitions of Clymb Marketing, a digital marketing firm, and Solidus, a creative strategy agency, as well as the opening of its Los Angeles office. Human Design is known for its work with high-profile clients like Nike, Purina, Converse, and emerging brands like Good Crisp. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Universal Mind LLC. Leading Business Broker Franchise Attracts Owners with Immersive Tools, AI Integrations, and Customer-Centric Upgrades PALM COAST, Fla., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The use and implementation of new technology has quickly become a key differentiator for businesses. We Sell Restaurants, the nation's leading and only business broker franchise focused on restaurants, is leveraging cutting-edge solutions to stay ahead of industry trends and deliver more efficient results for buyers, sellers, and the franchise network as a whole. Technology remains a top priority for the brand, playing a pivotal role in driving its continued growth and success throughout 2025. Key technological advancements year-to-date include: Integration of immersive 3D tours that allow buyers to virtually explore restaurant listings from anywhere in the world. Implementation of third-party login capabilities, including Facebook, Instagram, and Google, to streamline user access and improve the customer journey. Creation of personalized listing videos featuring the story behind why owners are selling, adding emotional context and authenticity to each opportunity. Utilization of AI for script generation, video editing, and avatar-driven storytelling to create engaging, professional, and consistent listing videos. "Our commitment to leveraging technology to benefit both the franchisee and customer experience has been incredibly successful, and we'll continue to focus on smart, scalable solutions," said Robin Gagnon, co-founder and CEO of We Sell Restaurants. "In fact, several of our franchisees started as customers, which is a true testament to how our tech-enabled systems build trust, deliver results, and inspire long-term investment in the brand." By streamlining operations and enhancing the experience for franchisees and customers, We Sell Restaurants' tech-forward approach has made the franchise opportunity more attractive to prospective and existing owners alkie. This year, the brand has awarded six new franchise agreements including two expansions by existing franchisees underscoring how these investments are driving systemwide results. Key development milestones from the first half of the year include: Current franchisee, Jeff Marcus , expanded from Boulder, Colorado into a second territory in Denver . , expanded from into a second territory in . Current franchisee, Brittany Gates , expanded from Daytona, Florida into South Jacksonville . , expanded from Daytona, into . New franchisees are now operating in four new markets. Allison Gregory came on board as the franchise partner in Aurora, Colorado ; Jason Kullman is the new franchisee in Frisco, Texas ; Ron Pereira bought the Columbia, South Carolina territory; Ty Bushart and Jason Foley are now serving the Northwest Arkansas territory. The success of We Sell Restaurants has not gone unnoticed, with the brand and its leadership earning significant accolades. In 2025, the International Business Brokers Association honored co-founders Eric and Robin Gagnon with the IBBA Outstanding Producer Award and IBBA Deal Maker Award, respectively, celebrating their exceptional contributions to the industry. In 2025, the We Sell Restaurants brand has been recognized by Franchise Business Review with the Top Franchisee Satisfaction Award, Top Franchises for Women, Top Low-Cost Franchises, and the Most Innovative Franchises Award. Also in 2025, the brand was recognized on Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 list. According to We Sell Restaurants 2023 FDD Item 19, franchisees earned $273,251 in gross commission income, and more than 40% of all franchisees brokered more than one-million-dollars in sales. * For more information on franchise opportunities, visit www.wesellrestaurants.com/franchise. About We Sell Restaurants We Sell Restaurants is the nation's largest business broker franchise focused exclusively on the sale of restaurants, with 20 years of experience in helping buy, sell and lease hospitality locations. We Sell Restaurants and its franchisees have sold thousands of restaurants across the country and maintain a listing inventory of nearly $420 million online at their powerhouse restaurant for sale marketplace, including independent and restaurant franchises for sale. We Sell Restaurants is offering franchise opportunities for their brand in select market areas. For more information, visit www.wesellrestaurants.com. *This information appears in Item 19 of our current FDD please refer to our FDD for complete information on financial performance. Results may differ. There is no assurance that any franchisee will perform as well. Media Contact: Emily Eastin, Fishman Public Relations, (847) 945-1300, [email protected] SOURCE We Sell Restaurants Vyacheslav Butko, economist, economic advisor at the Kyiv Security Forum This week it became known that the capitalization (i.e., market value) of Russia's Gazprom has become less than that of Popmart, the manufacturer of Labubu toys. This is evidence not so much of the popularity of monster toys, but of the staggering loss of Gazprom's markets and market value as a result of the fencing off of the civilized world from Russia and Russian energy carriers that began after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. On the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Gazprom reduced gas pumping to Europe to 20% of the design capacity of its pipelines on July 27, 2022. At the time, the Russian leadership saw the restriction of gas supplies as a successful strategic move - the last opportunity to use gas as a tool to pressure Europe into withdrawing its support for Ukraine, as this leverage would have lost its effectiveness as Europe refused to buy Russian energy, which would take time. But the EU has risen to the challenge. First, the European Union (as an institution plus its member states) has provided Ukraine with 160 billion euros in humanitarian, financial and military assistance since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion. Secondly, the EU is moving toward a complete rejection of Russian energy. Because gas has turned from an instrument of economic blackmail into a full-fledged weapon of Russia. The European Commission has approached a crucial phase in the implementation of plans to completely stop importing gas and other energy resources from Russia to the EU. The roadmap presented in May contains measures to put an end to energy cooperation between the EU and Russia. Third, the EU has taken energy efficiency and energy conservation seriously, reducing gas consumption by 19.5% (332 billion cubic meters in 2024 versus 412 billion cubic meters in 2021, the last pre-war year). In 2021, Gazprom supplied 163 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe. In 2024 - 32 billion cubic meters. A 5.1-fold drop. In 2021, the share of Russian gas was 39% of the European market. In 2024, Gazprom's share was 10%. In three years (2022-2024), Gazprom's European business will be left with only one route of supply to the European market - the Turkish Stream and its branches from the border of Turkey and Hungary north to Hungary and Slovakia, which amounts to 16-17 billion cubic meters. Both lines of Nord Stream 1 are damaged, and Nord Stream 2 cannot be launched without the approval of Germany, which clearly takes a pro-Ukrainian position. And the 18th package of EU sanctions actually puts an end to the operation of both streams. The Yamal-Europe gas pipeline is closed for transit through Poland. Transit through Ukraine has been suspended since January 2025. The volume of transit in 2024 was 15.5 billion cubic meters. Now this volume has also dropped out for Gazprom. "Gazprom was forced to withdraw from its European subsidiaries - Gazprom Germania, Gazprom Marketing & Trading, etc. To call a spade a spade, it was expelled from these companies. In 2022, Gazprom terminated several long-term contracts, some of which were terminated due to the counterparties' refusal to switch to ruble payments (as demanded by Putin) or due to the closure of transportation routes. So, there are the following results for Gazprom from Putin's foreign policy and military adventures: - loss of a high-margin, large-volume, highly solvent European market; - the collapse of the Turkish gas hub project - Turkey took advantage of Gazprom's difficult situation and demanded a 25% discount on the gas price and a one-year deferral of payment, while Gazprom had to lay the pipeline through the Black Sea at its own expense, but there are great military risks; - Gazprom's capitalization as of July 2025 is 38 billion US dollars. While the capitalization of Popmart, a manufacturer of plush toys in the form of monsters under the Labubu brand, is now 41 billion US dollars. In 2008, Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller claimed that Gazprom's capitalization would be 1 trillion dollars in 7-8 years (i.e. in 2015-2016). And now the capitalization of 38 billion dollars is 26.3 times less. And 7% less than the capitalization of Labubu. It is not a given that Gazprom's capitalization will not continue to decline. HUNTERSVILLE, N.C., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WORKPRO Tools is thrilled to launch its Back to School Sale at workprotools.store , offering 20% off sitewide with an extra 10% OFF w/code EXTRA10. This limited-time promotion is designed to equip college-bound students with high-quality tools, storage solutions, and accessories perfect for dorms, apartments, and beyond. WORKPRO's durable and versatile products are essential for students setting up their new spaces or tackling unexpected repairs, making them ideal gifts to send students off to college prepared for any emergency. Whether it's assembling furniture, organizing small living spaces, or handling quick fixes, WORKPRO's tools and storage solutions empower students to thrive in their new environments. From sturdy workbenches to essential tool kits, our products combine practicality with reliability, ensuring students are ready for life away from home, for less. Featured Back-to-School Best Sellers 60" Adjustable Desk ( @Shopify ) - $209.99 w/code (was $299.99 ) 1,500 lbs load capacity with hardwood top, built-in power outlets, and leveling feet. Perfect for dorm room projects or apartment setups. 1,500 lbs load capacity with hardwood top, built-in power outlets, and leveling feet. Perfect for dorm room projects or apartment setups. 5-Tier Metal Shelving Unit ( @Shopify ) - $125.99 w/code (was $179.99 ) A heavy-duty, adjustable storage rack to maximize space in dorms & apartments. A heavy-duty, adjustable storage rack to maximize space in dorms & apartments. Pink 12V Drill and 61-Piece Tool Set ( @Shopify ) - $44.62 w/code (was $63.74 ) Ideal for small DIY projects and repairs, your purchase also supports National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Proud NBCF partners since 2020. Ideal for small DIY projects and repairs, your purchase also supports National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Proud NBCF partners since 2020. Pink 12V Rechargeable Glue Gun ( @Shopify ) - $29.65 w/code (was $42.36 ) Cordless glue gun perfect for crafting, repairs, and creative projects. Proud NBCF partners since 2020. Support the mission of National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. with your purchase. Don't miss out on this opportunity to equip students with the tools they need to succeed. Visit workprotools.store today to take advantage of the 30% off sitewide discount (with code EXTRA10) and explore our full range of DIY tools and storage solutions. About WORKPRO Tools Since 2009, WORKPRO Tools has been committed to leading the way with innovative tools for the home do-it-yourselfer. Developed by Hangzhou GreatStar Industrial Co., Ltd., the largest hand tool manufacturer in Asia, WORKPRO Tools deliver a diverse variety of hand tools, power tools and storage solutions. Sold in over 100 countries around the world, WORKPRO Tools strives to provide tools to those who pride themselves in completing a project themselves. For more information, visit www.workprotools.store . Media Contact: Sue Ronis Marketing & Media Specialist GreatStar Industrial USA, LLC. [email protected] SOURCE GreatStar Industrial USA, LLC The UAH 4.7 billion loan issued by PrivatBank to Naftogaz Group is the state bank's largest loan to support the energy sector since the start of the full-scale war and the first for Naftogaz, the financial institution reported. "We consider supporting the energy sector as a key element of our mission - to be the country's financial support in difficult times. This is not just a credit decision, but a contribution to the stability of the state and the well-being of millions of Ukrainians," commented PrivatBank's board member for corporate business and SME Yevhen Zaihrayev, whose words are quoted in the bank's release on Wednesday. He expressed gratitude to the management of the Naftogaz Group "for trust, constructive cooperation and shared responsibility for the future of Ukraine's energy security." As noted by the bank, the lending became a new stage in the consistent support of the Ukrainian energy sector, which PrivatBank has been providing since the first months of the invasion. Earlier on Wednesday, it was reported that the Naftogaz Group had attracted a UAH 4.7 billion loan from PrivatBank to fill the underground storage facilities with the necessary volumes of gas. As of July 21, Ukraine exported 27,000 tonnes of new crop rapeseed, the market is under pressure from traders who artificially lower purchase prices despite the lack of objective prerequisites for this, the First Ukrainian Agricultural Cooperative (FUAC), established under the Ukrainian Agri Council (UAC), has said. Analysts drew attention to the fact that traders are trying to "squeeze" prices even before the official signing by the president of the law on the introduction of a 10% duty on soybean and rapeseed exports. If it is signed, the duty will come into effect on September 1, 2025. However, some traders are already manipulating the situation to make money on purchases at lower prices. "The duty is not yet in effect, and prices are being pushed down. This is an element of traders' unfair play aimed at maximizing profit. Currently, there are no economic reasons for lowering prices," the analysts said. They added that due to weather conditions, the rapeseed harvest this year is being postponed. At the same time, there are risks of yield losses due to heavy rainfall. On average, the yield in the country can be up to two tonnes per hectare. Analysts also reported problems with rapeseed stocks, which is putting additional pressure on the market. The European market is showing positive dynamics: stock quotes on Euronext have increased from EUR 470 to EUR 490 per tonne. In the event of a stable trend, it is possible to reach the psychological mark of EUR 500 per tonne in September. The dynamics of the rapeseed market will largely depend on the behavior of soybean prices, with which rapeseed is linked as a stock indicator. On the domestic market, the currency price is currently EUR 500 to EUR 540 per tonne, and the hryvnia price is UAH 23,200 to UAH 23,500 per tonne in ports. "However, due to delays in the harvesting campaign and weak market liquidity, trade has virtually come to a standstill. Nevertheless, taking into account further weather and exchange factors, the hryvnia price has the potential to grow," the cooperative said. 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 Washington, July 23 : US President Donald Trump met his Philippine counterpart, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., at the White House over trade and bilateral relations. "We concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19 per cent Tariff," said Trump in a post on Truth Social, his social media platform. "In addition, we will work together Militarily. It was a Great Honor to be with the President. He is Highly Respected in his Country, as he should be. He is also a very good, and tough, negotiator. We extend our warmest regards to the wonderful people of The Philippines!" he added. In a recent letter to Marcos, Trump said the United States would raise tariffs on Philippine goods to 20 per cent starting August 1, Xinhua news agency reported. In his Oval Office meeting, Trump said the US and the Philippines were "very close" to reaching a deal, calling Marcos a tough negotiator. "We're very close to finishing a trade deal, big trade deal," Trump said, seated alongside Marcos. "And we do a lot of business with you, so a lot of income coming in for both groups." The White House has not released more details about the trade deal with the Philippines. Marcos said their bilateral ties have "evolved into as important a relationship as is possible to have." August 1 is the Trump administration's current deadline for countries to reach trade agreements with the US or face higher tariff rates on goods sent to the US. New Delhi, July 23 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-nation tour of the UK and the Maldives on Wednesday, marking a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at bolstering strategic partnerships and regional cooperation. PM Modi's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 2324, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," said the Ministry of External Affairs in its press release. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. In the second leg of the tour, PM Modi will undertake a state visit to Maldives from July 2526 at the invitation of Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. This marks PM Modi's third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government during President Muizzu's tenure. "The two leaders will also take stock of the progress in the implementation of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership', adopted during the State Visit of the President of Maldives to India in October 2024," said MEA. Significantly, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the 60th Independence Day celebrations of Maldives on July 26. His visit underlines India's commitment to strengthening ties with its maritime neighbours under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR. The leaders are expected to assess progress in key areas including infrastructure, defence cooperation, and economic connectivity. The high-profile diplomatic engagements aim to reinforce India's global outreach while reaffirming its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region and beyond. Tehran, July 23 : Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that his country is ready to resume indirect negotiations with the US if sanctions are lifted and Tehran's right to use nuclear technology for "peaceful" purposes is respected. He made the remarks on Tuesday, in a meeting with members of the Iranian parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, the official news agency IRNA quoted Yaghoub Rezazadeh, a member of the commission, as saying. The foreign minister said that "in case the sanctions are lifted and Iran's right to use peaceful nuclear technology is respected, indirect negotiations with the United States will be held before raising the issue of (triggering) the snapback mechanism in October," according to the lawmaker. The snapback mechanism is a clause in a 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that would allow the other parties to re-impose all international sanctions should Iran fail to comply with the agreement, Xinhua news ageny reported. Araghchi added that planning had been done for negotiations between Iran and Russia on the former's nuclear program, and a meeting between Iran's representatives and those of the three European countries of France, Britain and Germany was scheduled to take place in Istanbul on Friday for talks on the same issue, according to Rezazadeh. Iran signed the JCPOA in July 2015 with six countries -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States. Under the deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The United States unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, prompting Iran to reduce compliance with its nuclear commitments gradually. United Nations, July 23 : The UN Security Council (UNSC) adopted a resolution to strengthen mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of international disputes. Resolution 2788, adopted unanimously by the 15-member council, urges all UN member states to utilize effectively the mechanisms as outlined in Article 33 of the UN Charter, including negotiation, inquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, resort to regional agencies or arrangements, or other peaceful means of their own choice, Xinhua news agency reported. The resolution expresses the UNSC's readiness to utilize the mechanism of investigation provided in Article 34 of the UN Charter, which gives it the power to investigate any dispute or any situation that might lead to international friction to determine whether the continuance of the dispute is likely to endanger the maintenance of international peace and security. Resolution 2788 reaffirms the UNSC's role to recommend appropriate procedures or methods of adjustment for the peaceful settlement of disputes, and calls on member states to take necessary measures for the effective implementation of UNSC resolutions for the peaceful settlement of disputes. The settlement encourages the UN secretary-general to ensure that the United Nations can lead and support mediation and preventive diplomacy efforts, encourages the secretary-general to continue to use his good offices, and calls on member states to support and cooperate with the secretary-general in this regard. The decision urges regional and subregional organizations to enhance their efforts for the peaceful settlement of disputes, consistent with the UN Charter and relevant UNSC resolutions, and encourages member states to support the role of regional and subregional organizations in this regard. It calls for the strengthening of cooperation between these organizations and the United Nations. The resolution requests the secretary-general to provide, one year following its adoption, concrete recommendations for further strengthening the mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes. New Delhi, July 23 : A wave of devotion swept across the country on Wednesday as devotees gathered at Shiva temples to mark the auspicious occasion of Shravan Shivratri by performing 'jalabhishek' and offering prayers. On this spiritually significant day, devotees performed jalabhishek, the sacred ritual of offering water to the Shivling. Pilgrims who undertook the annual Kanwar Yatra collected holy Ganga water to offer at temples as an expression of their devotion. Every Shiva devotee eagerly awaits Sawan Shivratri, as it is considered a special day to perform abhishek and express deep reverence to Lord Shiva. Regarded as the second most important festival dedicated to Lord Shiva after Maha Shivratri, this occasion holds immense spiritual significance. Although the entire month of Sawan is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, Sawan Shivratri holds a unique place in the hearts of devotees, as it is believed that prayers and rituals performed on this day bring spiritual upliftment and fulfil wishes. The festival was celebrated with great pomp and religious fervour throughout the country. Major Shiva temples across India organised special pujas and darshan for devotees. At these temples, Lord Shiva was ceremoniously anointed with sacred Ganga water. The celebration of Sawan Shivratri was particularly vibrant in northern states including Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar. In Uttar Pradesh, devotees started gathering from early morning to take a holy dip in the Saryu River. The Shiva temples along the riverbanks were elaborately decorated for the occasion. Security was tightened across the state to ensure smooth conduct of the festival. Long queues of devotees were seen outside temples from the early hours. In Varanasi, a massive number of devotees thronged the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to offer their prayers. "The faith in Kashi is truly boundless. I've had the desire to come here for a very long time, and now I've finally arrived. I had darshan of Mahadev, feeling truly blessed," said a devotee. Another devotee shared, "We have been standing here for the past four hours, but our enthusiasm is high and we will stay here till we get darshan inside the temple." In Ghaziabad, a large number of Kanwariyas arrived at the Dudheshwarnath Mahadev Temple to perform jalabhishek. Speaking to reporters, Mahant Narayan Giri explained, "The significance of Sawan Shivratri lies in the legend of the Samudra Manthan. During that time, when poison emerged, Lord Shiva consumed it. It is said that crores of gods performed abhishek on Lord Shiva. Since then, the tradition of offering jal at Dudheshwarnath has continued since ancient times." In Prayagraj, devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam and used the sacred waters for jalabhishek rituals. A devotee told IANS, "This is the Shivratri that falls in the month of Sawan. On this day, Lord Shankar is offered jalabhishek and panchamrit abhishek. Each offering holds its own significance. Some offer oil, some water, some use belpatra-infused water, and some use Ganga water. The type of abhishek depends on the devoteeas wish and holds different meanings." In Uttarakhand, a large number of devotees gathered at the historic Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, believed to be the abode of Daksh Prajapati, the father of Goddess Sati, who was the first wife of Lord Shiva. "We are here today at the Shiv Temple, which is considered the home of Lord Shiv's in-laws. It is believed that when we perform jalabhishek here, Lord Shiv becomes pleased. According to the holy texts, Lord Shiv runs the world from here, and we truly feel the divine presence," said a devotee. In the national capital Delhi, the Kalkaji Temple also witnessed a heavy influx of devotees. A beautifully adorned idol of Lord Shiva was installed, where devotees performed jalabhishek. Speaking to IANS, the Peethadheeshwar of Kalkaji Temple, Surendranath Avadhoot, said, "The month of Shravan holds special significance for the worship of Lord Shiva. This year, Shravan Shivratri falls on July 23. Devotees will perform jalabhishek at Shiva temples in their respective regions. The auspicious time (muhurat) for jalabhishek begins at 3:35 a.m., which is considered highly auspicious according to the scriptures." He further added, "During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a deadly poison emerged that threatened the universe. Lord Shiva consumed the poison to save creation, turning his throat blue and earning him the name Neelkantha. The act of offering water to the Shivling is believed to honour Lord Shiva's sacrifice and help alleviate the pain he endured from the poison." As the day progressed, devotion continued to flow across regions with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" resonating through temple premises. Washington, July 23 : US President Donald Trump said his administration will impose 15 per cent "reciprocal" tariffs on Japanese products, 10 percentage points lower than what was previously announced, as he touted a "massive" trade deal with the Asian ally. Trump made the announcement in a social media post as South Korea and other countries are striving to reach trade deals with the United States to avoid or reduce the steep tariffs that his administration plans to start implementing on Aug. 1 unless trade deals are agreed on. "Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%," he wrote on Truth Social, reports Yonhap news agency. In a letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba earlier this month, Trump said the U.S. will charge Japan 25 percent reciprocal tariffs, a percentage point higher than what Trump initially announced. He has also said that his government will impose 25 percent tariffs on Korea. Trump described the deal with Japan as "perhaps the largest" deal ever made, noting that the Asian country pledged to make a US$550 billion investment in the U.S., which he said will receive 90 percent of the profits. He did not elaborate on the investment plan. "This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs -- There has never been anything like it," he said. Washington and Tokyo had struggled to break an impasse at a time when the Japanese government was thought to have been in a difficult position to show flexibility in the trade negotiations ahead of its parliamentary elections held over the weekend. Last week, Trump said that his administration might "live by the letter" on the 25 percent tariff rate for Japan, hinting at difficulties in hashing out a deal. In its trade talks with the U.S., Seoul hopes to secure exemptions or relief from the reciprocal tariffs as well as sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum and automobiles, which are bound to impact Korea's export-reliant economy. Earlier in the day, Trump also announced a deal with the Philippines, saying the Southeast Asian country will pay 19 percent tariffs, a percentage point lower than what was previously announced. a"IANS na/ Seoul, July 23 : Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki's team investigating various allegations involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee questioned the wife of her fugitive associate Wednesday about allegations of his misuse of private funds. The 48-year-old associate, named Kim Ye-seong, who is often dubbed the butler of the former first lady's family, has not returned home after leaving the country in April this year amid suspicions that he had received 18 billion won (US$13.1 million) in dubious investments from several companies, including Kakao Mobility, Shinhan Bank and Kyeong Nam Steel Co., through his rental car company IMS in 2023. Kim is suspected of pocketing 4.6 billion won of the investments by selling IMS equities through a dubious venture company, where his wife, surnamed Jeong, is the only registered director. The special counsel team reportedly questioned Jeong about how she became the director of the venture company, why the transactions of IMS stocks occurred, and how the 4.6 billion won was used, Yonhap news agecy reported. The team also called in former and incumbent executives of Shinhan Bank and Kyeong Nam Steel to question them about the investments into IMS. Earlier on Monday, a special counsel team questioned a key associate of former first lady over allegations he peddled his influence to secure a suspended prison sentence for a business partner. The team, led by special counsel Min Joong-ki, summoned Lee Jong-ho, former head of investment firm Blackpearl Invest, to its office in central Seoul, two days after it raided his home and car. London, July 23 : Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the UK will place significant emphasis on trade, investment, and deepening economic ties between the two countries. Speaking to IANS ahead of the visit, Doraiswami highlighted that both sides are preparing to take forward the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and strengthen their strategic partnership. "Our entire team is working in London to prepare for the visit," Doraiswami said, underscoring the importance of the bilateral engagement. "We will be discussing a lot on trade and investment, especially how to implement the trade agreement once it is signed, and how both countries can further strengthen their economic relationship. Indian companies operating in the UK are largely satisfied; they have received good market access here," he added. On the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Doraiswami noted that while the primary negotiations have been completed, some formal processes remain. "The main negotiations have concluded, as announced by the counterparts of the Prime Minister on May 6. However, some paperwork still needs to be finalised. This is called 'legal scrubbing' to ensure that the agreement is legally sound and all documents are ready for an agreement," he explained. Prime Minister Modi's visit to the UK is scheduled for July 23-24 at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit will include a comprehensive review of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with discussions spanning trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education, and people-to-people ties. The leaders will also deliberate on regional and global issues of shared concern. The visit is expected to inject fresh momentum into bilateral ties and provide direction for new areas of cooperation, including the long-anticipated FTA. Washington, July 23 : US President Donald Trump touted a "massive" trade deal with Japan calling it 'perhaps the largest' deal ever made as his administration will impose 15 per cent "reciprocal" tariffs on Japanese products, 10 percentage points lower than what was previously announced. Trump made the announcement in a social media post as South Korea and other countries are striving to reach trade deals with the US to avoid or reduce the steep tariffs that his administration plans to start implementing on August 1 unless trade deals are agreed on. "Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%," he wrote on Truth Social. In a letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba earlier this month, Trump said the US will charge Japan 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs, a percentage point higher than what Trump initially announced. He has also said that his government will impose 25 per cent tariffs on Korea, Yonhap news agency reported. Trump described the deal with Japan as "perhaps the largest" deal ever made, noting that the Asian country pledged to make a US$550 billion investment in the US, which he said will receive 90 per cent of the profits. He did not elaborate on the investment plan. "This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs -- There has never been anything like it," he said. Washington and Tokyo had struggled to break an impasse at a time when the Japanese government was thought to have been in a difficult position to show flexibility in the trade negotiations ahead of its parliamentary elections held over the weekend. Last week, Trump said that his administration might "live by the letter" on the 25 per cent tariff rate for Japan, hinting at difficulties in hashing out a deal. In its trade talks with the US, Seoul hopes to secure exemptions or relief from the reciprocal tariffs as well as sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum and automobiles, which are bound to impact Korea's export-reliant economy. Earlier in the day, Trump also announced a deal with the Philippines, saying the Southeast Asian country will pay 19 per cent tariffs, a percentage point lower than what was previously announced. George Sandoval was arrested at a Subway restaurant in Madeira, California, after he assaulted the store's manager, KMPH-TV reported. Monique Larios said she was called in to the store after a customer complained that there wasn't enough ham on his sandwich. "I did not expect this. He comes around the corner, and I go, 'What are you going to do, hit me over ham?' and he hit me," Larios said. "I still can't feel half my face. I'm 4'11", and this guy was 6'5", almost 400 pounds," she said. Sandoval was charged with battery. [KMPH, 5/7/2024] In the Podilsky district of the capital, police detained a man who opened fire on a car in the courtyard of a residential complex in the morning. According to the police, the 35-year-old attacker fired from a traumatic weapon due to a conflict with the driver that occurred the day before. No one was injured as a result of the incident. The weapon was seized, the man was detained under Art. 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. Proceedings were initiated under Part 4 of Article 296 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - hooliganism with the use of weapons. He faces up to seven years in prison. Thiruvananthapuram, July 23 : Thousands gathered along the roads in Kerala to catch a glimpse of the final journey of the late Communist veteran V.S. Achuthanandan, which began from the state capital over 21 hours ago and was en route to his home district, Alappuzha. The last journey started on Tuesday after 2 p.m., and it has been almost like a snail's crawl for the flower-decorated state-owned passenger bus carrying the leader's coffin. A normal drive on this route takes around four hours to reach. At 11 a.m. on Wednesday, and after 21 hours, the hearse has travelled 145 km, and the next stop is his home at Alappuzha, which is still around 7 km away. A tired-looking CPI(M) state secretary, M.V. Govindan, who is travelling alongside the hearse, on Wednesday morning, told the media that the turnout has been unprecedented and all plans have gone haywire. "Lakhs of people by now have bid goodbye to VS, and it's become increasingly difficult to control the people. Since the schedule has gone haywire, we are hoping to reduce the timing of public viewing, as by late evening, the cremation has to take place," said Govindan. Meanwhile, at his home in Alappuzha, which he purchased 58 years ago, the locals are in line, which has now become two km long. Ever since the hearse started its journey from here, thousands waited for long hours braving heavy rains and the darkness and when it came in front of them, many were seen in tears and shouting slogans praising VS, as he is popularly called and known among all. The state capital city has been his second home since 1967, when he won as a legislator for the first time. VS passed away at a private hospital here on Monday at 3.20 p.m. He was 101. Now, once it reaches Alappuzha, three places have been earmarked where it will be placed, and they include his home, the district committee office of the CPI(M) where he became the secretary at the age of 31. Then the body will be placed at a specially erected pandal on the seashore where 3,000 people can sit, and the public viewing will be held for all. From there, it will be taken to the final resting place at Veliyachudukadu, where the pyre will be lit, and it's slated to take place after 5 p.m. Incidentally, even though VS quit public life in January 2020, the massive turnout shows how dear people in Kerala hold him. While Tuesday was a statewide holiday as a mark of respect to the departed, Alappuzha district is having a public holiday on Wednesday also. All the top national leaders of the CPI(M), including General Secretary M.A. Baby -- who was the Education Minister in VS's cabinet, former General Secretary Prakash Karat, Brinda Karat and a host of leaders also paid their last respects. New Delhi, July 23 : The number of vertical (mother-to-child) transmission of HIV has declined by around 84 per cent said Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, in the Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session. In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Patel shared several steps taken by the government to enhance HIV/AIDS awareness. "Vertical transmission rate has also declined by around 74.5 per cent between 2010 and 2024 compared to around 56.5 per cent globally in the same reference period," Patel said. Patel noted that National Aids Control Organisation (NACO), a division of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, undertakes the responsibility to strengthen the awareness campaign against HIV/AIDs, through comprehensive multimedia campaigns, such as with information kiosks, and folk performances, among others. Digital platforms and social media are also actively leveraged to ensure broader engagement and awareness generation, especially among younger and tech-savvy audiences. Further, NACO rolled out 1,619 projects nationwide to support high-risk HIV populations. "High-risk groups, including female sex workers (FSW), men having sex with Men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), hijra/transgender (TG) individuals, truck drivers, and migrants are specifically addressed through 1,619 targeted intervention projects across the country," Patel said. Self-help groups, anganwadi workers, ASHAs, and members of Panchayati Raj institutions provide training and sensitisation programmes at the grassroots level, fostering community-level awareness and behavioural change. To prevent discrimination against people living with HIV (PLHIV), NACO uses thematic campaigns, Patel said These campaigns aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster inclusivity in diverse settings, including workplaces, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and communities at large. In addition, "Ombudsmen have been appointed in 34 States and Union Territories to address complaints related to discrimination against PLHIV," the MoS said, noting that the efforts underscore the government's commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of PLHIV. Kolkata, July 23 : Police are reopening the cases against Monojit Mishra, the prime accused in the case of raping a law college student at Kasba in Kolkata, sources said on Wednesday. Sources in city police said that altogether 12 cases were registered against Mishra on various charges, namely hooliganism, causing injuries through weapons, beating up junior students by bringing in anti-social elements from outside within the campus, and most importantly, repeated complaints of sexual harassment of female students within the campus. Out of these 12 cases, he added, two cases have already been reopened, and Mishra had also been shown as arrested in these two cases. One of the two cases that have already been reopened against Mishra is one registered in 2023 on charges of both hooliganism and sexual assault. The other case, which had been reopened, was registered in 2024 on charges of hooliganism. The police and their legal teams are thoroughly examining the other 10 cases registered against him in the past and determining which of these remaining 10 have merit for reopening. However, the questions that started surfacing are that had the police taken prompt action against Mishra at the time when the 12 past cases were registered, the incident of rape within the law college premises could have been avoided. To date, four people have been arrested in connection with the case. They are the three prime accused in the crime of rape, namely Monojit Mishra, Jaib Ahmed, and Pramit Mukhopadhyay. Police had identified Mishra as the perpetrator of the crime, while the other two have been identified as his facilitators in the heinous activity. The fourth arrested person in the case is Pinaki Banerjee, a security guard of the law college, who, as per the statement recorded by the victim with the police immediately after the incident on the evening of June 25, was the "sole helpless" witness to the crime. Meanwhile, a fresh allegation has surfaced against Mishra of facilitating the admission of a certain number of ineligible students at the law college at Kasba every year against receipts of hefty cash ranging between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.50 lakh. New Delhi, July 23 : A Morgan Stanley report on Wednesday said it expects India's economy to be the third-largest globally by 2028 and more than double in size to $10.6 trillion by 2035. Embedded in this forecast is the likelihood that three to five states (Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka) will have an economy of nearly $1 trillion each, ranking in the top 20 global economies between 2030 and 2035, the report projected. "Based on the latest data, the top three states are Maharashtra, Gujarat and Telangana. The states showing significant improvement in ranks over the past five years are Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh," the report noted. India will drive a fifth of global growth in the coming decade and become essential to earnings growth for many multinational companies. "To secure this outcome, among other things, the role of India's 28 states and eight Union Territories is critical. States not only play a pivotal role in fiscal management but also compete for investments by creating suitable policies and incentives, easing business conditions (ultimately, a business or factory is set up in a particular state)," said economists from the global financial institution. They have independent political cycles with varying mandates that can affect growth positively or negatively and are empowered by law to control factors of production. "The success of India's competitive federalism will help decide whether she becomes a factory to the world, doubling her per capita income in the coming seven years and whether the stock market continues its strong performance," the report emphasised. States are economically important as India becomes a $10.6 trillion economy by 2035, wielding considerable political and legislative power. Their policy frameworks are capable of influencing India's rise as a global manufacturing hub. In the past decade, there has been a concerted push for development of physical infrastructure the Central government doubled its capex to 3.2 per cent of GDP in FY2025 from 1.6 per cent of GDP in FY2015. This has led to significant infrastructure growth across states. "Highways rose 60 per cent, airports doubled, and metro network quadrupled. Infrastructure programmes spearheaded by the Central government -- such as PM Gati Shakti, the National Infrastructure Pipeline, Bharatmala, Sagar Mala, and UDAN -- have been promulgated alongside state-specific initiatives," said the report. States collaborate with the Centre on these projects and play a crucial role in planning and implementation. Further, state governments are also responsible for investments in areas related to power, water, and urban development, it mentioned. Mumbai, July 23 : "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai" actor Rishabh Jaiswal, has come out with a new romantic music video alongside Jasmeet Kaur titled Yeh Baarish Jab Hoti Hai. Talking about love, he said that for him, romance is about vibing with someone, being goofy, laughing over silly things and just being himself. Mumbai, July 23 (IANS) "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai" actor Rishabh Jaiswal, has come out with a new romantic music video alongside Jasmeet Kaur titled Yeh Baarish Jab Hoti Hai. Talking about love, he said that for him, romance is about vibing with someone, being goofy, laughing over silly things and just being himself. Talking about the song, Rishabh Jaiswal said, "Whoever knows me knows I've never been the classic lovey-dovey guy. For me, romance is about vibing with someone, being goofy, laughing over silly things, just feeling at ease and being yourself. That's the kind of connection I believe in, and Yeh Baarish Jab Hoti Hai captures exactly that." He said that the music video is "playful, real, and filled with those small, unspoken moments that make love feel special." "There are scenes where we're just dancing in the rain, sharing smiles, and it didn't feel like acting at all." The actor said that he is happy to be a part of something so simple yet beautiful, and that he genuinely hopes people feel that warmth when they watch it. "If it makes them smile, reminisce, or just hum along, that's all I could ask for. And if they shower it with love, maybe we'll even see it climb the charts," he added. The video captures tender moments between Rishabh and Jasmeet, from playful glances to cozy hugs in the rain. Jasmeet said that there's a certain calm that comes with the rain. She added: "It brings back memories, makes you pause, and lets you feel everything a little more clearly." "'Yeh Baarish Jab Hoti Hai' carries that quiet emotion. It's about comfort, closeness, and that beautiful in-between space where feelings grow without needing to be explained. I feel people will see a piece of their own story in it." The song is sung soulfully by Kunal Bojewar, with music composed by Gurmeet Singh Deol. The track is now streaming on the You tube channel ChanaJor Melodies along with Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. New Delhi, July 23 : India's sustained economic growth and inclusive development model position it as an "anchor of stability" at a time when the world is facing economic uncertainty and transformation, Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, has said. New Delhi, July 23 (IANS) India's sustained economic growth and inclusive development model position it as an "anchor of stability" at a time when the world is facing economic uncertainty and transformation, Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, has said. He was speaking at the ministerial segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the United Nations Headquarters in the US. According to Bery, the world community is currently undergoing a period of profound economic change, making it more important than ever for everyone to work together to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasised that the world today requires new growth engines, development models that can be scaled and replicated across countries, and trustworthy anchors of stability. He asserted that, by utilising its distinct advantages and growth history, India is prepared and eager to provide all three. Bery emphasised India's economic tenacity, stating that the nation has become a thriving democracy with steadily rising socioeconomic metrics. He credited this advancement to a confluence of inclusive digital technologies, morally sound reforms, and laws meant to empower all facets of society. Additionally, he emphasised India's commitment to promoting change throughout the Global South. He believed that other developing nations could learn from India's development journey, which is notable for its scale, speed, and stability. According to Bery, who cited recent data, an estimated 248 million Indians are thought to have escaped poverty between 201314 and 202223. He underlined that India is fully committed to making sure that these young people have a bright and productive future, as the country now has the largest number of young people entering the workforce worldwide India's development story, Bery said, is evidence that inclusive and sustainable growth is not only possible but also scalable in a variety of settings. India reaffirmed its belief in the UN as the cornerstone of multilateralism as it marks the organisation's 80th anniversary, he said. Chennai, July 23 : Two years after the Tamil Nadu government issued a Government Order (GO) to regulate the installation of power fences, including solar fences, aimed at protecting wildlife, the corresponding regulation -- Tamil Nadu Power Fences (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2023 -- is yet to be implemented. The delay has left both farmers and forest officials in limbo, with growing concerns over safety, compliance, and recurring human-wildlife conflicts. The rules were designed to ensure that fences, especially solar-powered ones, meet safety standards to prevent electrocution of wild animals. However, the delay in implementation has led to confusion, especially among farmers who have either installed or intend to install such fences to protect their crops from wildlife intrusion. A forest range officer in Coimbatore said that under the proposed rules, farmers are expected to use Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-certified energisers and follow strict installation protocols. "Over 20 farmers in this range have applied for permission to set up solar fences, but many are concerned that adhering to the new norms would significantly increase their costs," the officer said. According to sources, more than 80 farmers across various ranges have submitted applications -- both under the new rules and the earlier framework -- for solar fence registration. Yet, there has been little clarity or progress from the authorities. P. Kandasamy, General Secretary of the Farmers Association, criticised the forest department's inconsistent approach. "There seems to be a lack of coordination between the forest department and Tangedco. While we are equally concerned about wildlife, the burden of responsibility cannot rest solely on farmers. It's the duty of the forest department to protect wild animals," he said, calling for a permanent solution to the human-animal conflict. Farmers also expressed frustration over the lack of response from the forest department. A grower from Periyanaickenpalayam said he applied for registration under the new rules two years ago but has yet to receive any reply. Meanwhile, another farmer, C.Murugadas from Theethipalayam, questioned the logic of limiting fencing to 240 metres. "How can I protect my 6.5-acre banana plantation from elephants with just 240 metres of fencing?" he asked. "I've already spent Rs 4.5 lakh to install 1,750 metres of fencing. If the government can provide at least a 50 per cent subsidy, many farmers like me will be better equipped to safeguard our crops." As the delay drags on, both the safety of wildlife and the livelihood of farmers remain at risk, with no clear resolution in sight. Guwahati, July 23 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his condolences on the demise of noted theatre personality Ratan Thiyam. Taking to X on Wednesday, Sarma wrote, "A leading light of the Theatre for Roots movement, Shri Ratan Thiyam dedicated his life to bringing indigenous theatre and art practices to the global stage. A Padma awardee, his productions were rich in talent and messaging." The Chief Minister also mentioned, "He was a brilliant ambassador of the rich culture of Manipur and the North East and was able to use art as a vehicle to convey people's emotions and aspirations. My deepest condolences on his demise." Celebrated theatre icon Ratan Thiyam, a stalwart of Indian performing arts and a key figure in the "theatre of roots" movement, passed away on Wednesday. He was 77. Widely regarded as one of the most influential dramatists in modern Indian theatre, Thiyam leaves a legacy that redefined stagecraft by fusing ancient Indian traditions with contemporary narratives. Born on January 20, 1948, in Manipur, Thiyam -- also known by the name Thiyam Nemai -- was a multifaceted artist. A playwright, director, painter, and musician, his work was deeply rooted in the cultural ethos of his home state but resonated nationally and internationally. He gained prominence in the 1970s as a pioneer of the "theatre of roots" movement, which sought to decolonise Indian theatre and reconnect it with its indigenous heritage. His productions, marked by profound philosophical depth and visual grandeur, were known for their blend of classical Manipuri performance styles, mythology, and pressing socio-political themes. Thiyam founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal, which became a hub for experimental and culturally immersive performances. Over the decades, he earned numerous accolades, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987 -- one of India's highest honours in the field of performing arts. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian theatre, but Thiyam's contributions will continue to inspire generations of artists and theatre enthusiasts across the globe. Bengaluru, July 23 : Amid the political face-off between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP over the issue of GST notices to small traders and shop owners demanding exorbitant tax payments, traders across the state have launched a three-day agitation starting Wednesday. As part of the protest, traders have stopped serving milk, coffee, and tea to customers at their shops, and many wore black badges. A decision has been made to boycott the sale of cigarettes, beedis, and all tobacco-related products on Thursday (July 24). On Friday (July 25), the traders plan to shut down their shops and establishments and stage a massive protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru. The traders are also considering launching an indefinite strike unless the GST notices are withdrawn. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called a meeting with aggrieved parties and trade bodies at his official residence in Bengaluru. However, Karnataka State Karmika Parishat President Ravi Shetty, reacting to CM Siddaramaiah's move to address the issue, stated that his organisation would not attend the meeting. "We initiated the agitation against the GST notices to traders. But the state government has invited only those trade bodies that are already paying taxes. The meeting should have involved small traders who have been issued GST notices demanding payments of up to Rs 50 lakh. Our organisation received the invitation merely for formality. We will not be attending the meeting," Ravi Shetty stated. Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi has clarified that the GST notices issued to small-scale traders in Karnataka are the doing of the state government, and not the Central government. The Karnataka BJP has slammed the Congress-led government in Karnataka over the alleged issuance of GST tax notices to small traders, accusing it of obstructing the Centre's digital revolution. The party has also announced the launch of a helpline to safeguard the interests of small traders in the state in the backdrop of a row over GST. Hitting back at the BJP, the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar said that the BJP is trying to fix the Congress government in the state over the GST row. "BJP is trying to eat the banana and wipe it on our nose by issuing GST notices to small traders," the Deputy Chief Minister said, while targeting opposition BJP in the state. Chennai, July 23 : Several NEET-PG aspirants from Tamil Nadu have voiced their frustration over being allotted examination centres in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming test scheduled on August 3. Despite repeated representations in the past, the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has continued this practice, candidates alleged. Arjun Ramkumar, a PG aspirant, said he was shocked to see his exam centre listed as Narasaraopet in Andhra Pradesh. "Some of my friends have been allotted Rajahmundry, which is about 600 km from Chennai. This happens every year. We're forced to travel at least two days in advance, book tickets, and make stay arrangements. It's an added burden during an already stressful period," he said. According to the Doctors' Association for Social Equality (DASE), around 1,000 candidates from Tamil Nadu have been allotted exam centres outside the state this year. "Over 60,000 candidates from Tamil Nadu apply for NEET-PG annually. The state has enough government and private medical colleges to accommodate them. The state government must step in and press for re-allotment of centres," said G.R. Ravindranath, General Secretary of DASE. He also pointed out that long-distance travel is particularly challenging for women candidates, who often need an escort for safety and support, adding to their financial and logistical strain. Another aspirant, R. Saran Kumar, echoed similar concerns. "I, too, have been assigned Narasaraopet as my exam centre. Many of my peers are in the same situation. It's unfair." According to NBEMS, there are 24 exam centres in Tamil Nadu for NEET-PG 2025, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Coimbatore, Madurai, Krishnagiri, and Karur. This year, over 2.42 lakh candidates have registered for the exam across India. In 2024, exam centre reallocation was made possible after Dindigul MP R. Sachithanantham and Kerala MP Shashi Tharoor raised the issue with the Union Health Ministry. Following their intervention, many candidates previously assigned to Andhra Pradesh were reassigned to Tamil Nadu centres. Candidates are now urging a similar intervention to ensure a fair and convenient testing process. In Novocherkassk, Rostov Region, the railway infrastructure used by the Russian military-industrial complex and army was attacked, Andrey Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) at the National Security and Defense Council, has said. "This logistics hub connects strategic directions: Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh, Volgograd, Kamensk-Shakhtinsky. It is through this hub that the transfer of equipment, ammunition, fuel resources and personnel to the border with Ukraine is carried out," he explained in a Telegram post on Wednesday morning. According to Kovalenko, the city also houses logistics units of the 1061st Material and Technical Support Center of the Southern Military District of the Russian Federation, which is responsible for the distribution of weapons, fuel and ammunition. "Hubs like Novocherkassk are the arteries that feed the Russian military machine. Without them, supplies to the front stop," he said. New Delhi, July 23 : India has made a jump of eight spots to rank 77th in the Henley Passport Index's mid-year update. India's feat is impressive, as it is the biggest climb in ranking by any country in the last six months. Earlier this year, India was ranked 85th. The UK-based Henley Passport Index is a global ranking of countries according to the travel freedom allowed by those countries' ordinary passports for their citizens. With the addition of two more countries to the visa-on-arrival list for Indians, the country now also has visa-free access to 59 countries. The ranking reflects the number of destinations that passport holders can enter without a prior visa. Malaysia, Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand are some countries that offer visa-free access to Indian passport holders. Countries such as Sri Lanka, Macau, Myanmar, etc., offer visa-on-arrival (VOA). The rankings, based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), show that Asian countries are on the rise in passport power, with emerging economies like India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China closing in on traditional heavyweights like the US and the UK. This trend is reflected in IATA data, as Asia-Pacific airlines led global air travel growth in the first five months of 2025 with a 9.5 per cent increase. North America experienced a flat market. Singapore retained its position at the top of the index, with visa-free access to 193 of 227 destinations. Japan and South Korea followed closely with 190 destinations. Seven EU countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, shared the third spot, while New Zealand joined Greece and Switzerland in fifth position. Meanwhile, the US and UK, once ranked first globally, continued their decline. The UK fell to sixth place with access to 186 destinations, and the US dropped to 10th with 182. The UAE rose from 42nd to 8th in 10 years while adding more visa-free destinations than any other country. A new wave of diplomatic visa waivers helped China advance 34 positions in a decade to the 60th spot in 2025. Imphal, July 23 : India's renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam died at a hospital in Imphal on Wednesday, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that redefined contemporary Indian theatre, officials said. He was 77. "Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences early on Wednesday after a prolonged illness," a state government official told the media. A recipient of India's fourth-highest civilian award -- Padma Shri in 1989 -- and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner in 1987, Thiyam was famous for blending traditional Manipuri art forms with modern craft, innovation and poetic narratives. Founder of the Imphal-based Chorus Repertory Theatre in 1976, Thiyam briefly served as the chief of the New Delhi-based National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988. Some of the other notable awards that Thiyam had received were the Kalidas Samman (1997), Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration (2008), Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2012), and Tagore Ratna (2012). The most recent one was the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Manipur government on the occasion of the 54th Statehood Day in January this year for his unparalleled service to the state's theatre and cultural heritage. The Manipur government has condoled the death of the legendary theatre personality. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, former Chief Minister N Biren Singh, state BJP President Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi also expressed their grief over the death of Thiyam, and said his work carried the soul of Manipur. "Honable Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, expressed deep sorrow on the demise of renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Thiyam Ratan. The Governor stated that his invaluable contribution to Manipuri theatre and culture will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers," a post of the Raj Bhavan X handle said. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam , a visionary who redefined Indian theatre by blending contemporary form with the cultural soul of Manipur. Through his art, he not only elevated the cultural identity of his homeland but left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian performing arts. His legacy will continue to inspire." "Heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who admired his art. May he rest in peace," CM Sangma said. Singh, in a post on X, said: "It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world of theatre but also our very identity." "His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty. May his soul rest in peace and his spirit continue to live on in the works he leaves behind and in the countless lives he inspired. May we all find strength in remembering his immense contributions to our cultural landscape," the former Chief Minister said. Condoling the death of Thiyam, Manipur state BJP president Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi said in a post on X : "It is deeply saddening to learn of the demise of renowned theatre maestro Shri Ratan Thiyam ji. A towering figure in the world of theatre, he was the only individual from the region to have held the prestigious position of Director at the National School of Drama." "Recipient of numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, Shri Ratan Thiyamas contribution to art, culture, and literature will forever be remembered. His untimely demise is a tremendous loss to Manipur and the nation. On behalf of BJP Manipur, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the entire artistic fraternity. Om Shanti," Devi said. Mumbai, July 23 : Veteran actor Yashpal Sharma, on Wednesday, took to social media to pay a heartfelt tribute to renowned Manipuri theatre icon Ratan Thiyam. Remembering Thiyam as a towering figure in theatre, Sharma expressed his deep respect and admiration for the late visionary. In his post, the actor also celebrated his unparalleled contribution to the stage. Taking to Instagram, Yashpal shared an image of the late theatre exponent from Manipur and wrote, "Former director of Rashtriya Natya Vidyalaya and Purodha Ratan Thiam ji of Indian Theater passed away today. His Chakravyuh (Manipuri) drama was no less than a wonder, seen in Kamani at the Nehru centenary celebrations in 1989. May God place his soul at his feet." Former Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh joined several prominent leaders in mourning the loss of acclaimed theatre maestro Ratan Thiyam. He posted on his X handle, "It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world of theatre but also our very identity." A legendary figure in India's contemporary theatre landscape, Thiyam breathed his last in Imphal early Wednesday morning, July 23, at the age of 77. He was widely known worldwide for blending ancient Indian theatrical techniques with contemporary narratives. His iconic productions, including "Chakravyuha" and "Ritusamharam," stood out for their unique integration of Manipuri art forms. Honored with the Padma Shri in 1989, Ratan held the position of vice-chairman at the Sangeet Natak Akademi and later went on to lead the National School of Drama as its chairperson for five years. New Delhi, July 23 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a two-nation visit to the United Kingdom and Maldives, hoping to solidify bilateral relations and expressing confidence that the visit will yield tangible outcomes. PM Modi's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23-24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "India and UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties." He said that he will hold bilateral meetings with PM Starmer and will discuss further enhancing the economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and job creation in both countries. "I also look forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III during the visit," he said. In the second leg of the tour, PM Modi will undertake a State Visit to Maldives from July 25-26 at the invitation of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. This marks PM Modi's third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government during President Muizzu's tenure. Significantly, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the 60th Independence Day celebrations of Maldives on July 26. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. His visit underlines India's commitment to strengthening ties with its maritime neighbours under the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR. PM Modi said that he is looking forward to meetings with President Muizzu and other political leadership of the Indian Ocean archipelago, to advance the joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, and to strengthen the cooperation for peace, prosperity and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). "I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighbourhood First Policy," PM Modi said. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Bengaluru, July 23 : Karnataka BJP on Wednesday extended its support to the protest launched by traders and shop owners against the issuance of GST notices demanding exorbitant tax payments. The party urged the Siddaramiah government to stop issuing further notices and withdraw the ones already served by the Commercial Tax Department. Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra stated, "The issuance of notices to small and middle-class traders by the Commercial Tax Department, as per the directions of the state government, has stirred a debate across the state. Traders are under immense pressure and deeply concerned. Instead of addressing the issue, the Chief Minister and his ministers are busy blaming the Centre." Vijayendra further said, "The Chief Minister should recall his public statements about Karnataka achieving the first position in GST collection and his aim for the state to surpass Maharashtra. He has also set revenue targets for officers in this regard." "The truth is now coming to light. At a time when the state treasury is empty, the Chief Minister, through the officers and the Commercial Tax Department, is indulging in the extortion of traders. I urge the Chief Minister to understand that the issuance of such notices to small and middle-class traders is entirely illegal. The state government itself is engaging in illegality," he alleged. "The state must immediately stop issuing these notices, and the ones already sent must be withdrawn," he demanded. Vijayendra added, "Today, traders have begun their agitation against the state government, and the BJP fully supports their protest. Many essential items are not covered under GST, yet traders selling milk and curd are receiving notices from the Commercial Tax Department." He also pointed out, "There are three GST slabs, but traders are indiscriminately being charged 18 per cent GST without proper verification or discussion. These notices are being issued only because the treasury is empty. Traders across the state are living in fear." "I urge the Chief Minister to reconsider and withdraw these notices immediately," he reiterated. Amid the ongoing political face-off between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP over this issue, traders across Karnataka have launched a three-day agitation starting Wednesday. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called a meeting with the aggrieved parties and trade bodies at his official residence in Bengaluru. New Delhi, July 23 : Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Wednesday strongly criticised Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav after photos went viral showing him and other MPs sitting inside a mosque near Parliament. Naqvi questioned the use of religious places for political purposes, calling it a mockery of secular values. Speaking to IANS, Naqvi said, "You should conduct your political programs in your party office, in halls, or at public spaces -- but not in temples, mosques, or gurdwaras. If you hold political programs inside a mosque and then claim that it is a symbol of secularism, then that is a complete betrayal of the very idea of secularism." The photographs, which surfaced on social media Tuesday evening, showed Akhilesh Yadav sitting along with several party MPs, including his wife MP Dimple Yadav, inside a mosque at Parliament Street. While SP leaders termed it a "casual visit" and "private moment of reflection," BJP leaders have accused them of mixing religion with politics to trigger polarisation. Naqvi, a prominent Muslim face in the BJP, said that the opposition must not use sacred spaces as platforms for political optics. "Secularism means distancing religion from politics, not showcasing political unity inside a religious space to gain mileage," he remarked. In the same interaction, Naqvi also commented on the ongoing review of the voter list in Delhi, asserting that the exercise should focus on identifying and removing illegal voters. "Unfortunately, some people seem more concerned with safeguarding the illegal voters," he said, adding, "They are trying hard to protect these illegal voters and are adding a communal flavour to it to create polarisation." Naqvi warned that such attempts threaten the democratic process and insisted that only legitimate voters should be allowed to participate in elections. Islamabad, July 23 : The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised serious concerns over the continued persecution of religious minorities across the country. The rights body on Tuesday highlighted that a Christian man in Sargodha district of Pakistan's Punjab province was lynched by a violent mob, following accusations of blasphemy, while the Ahmadiyya community withdrew from the electoral process entirely in the region, citing systemic discrimination and lack of safety. Additionally, the HRCP mentioned that Punjab continued to account for the highest number of child abuse cases in the country. "Between January and June 2024 alone, the province reported 78 per cent of the 1,630 cases nationwide, alongside 2,506 incidents of sexual abuse, 2,189 kidnappings, 457 cases of child trafficking, and 455 instances of physical abuse. The death of 11-year-old Ayesha, a domestic worker in Faisalabad, and similar incidents in Sargodha and Lahore exposed the violence faced by underage working children in private homes," it stated. The human rights organisation in its State of Human Rights in 2024 report detailed a surge in sexual violence against women, including those with mental disabilities, domestic abuse resulting in fatalities, involving pregnant women, and honour killings, which continued throughout the year in Punjab. In a case involving an alleged rape at a private college in Lahore, the HRCP noted a failure by the authorities to gather conclusive evidence that the incident had occurred. Highlighting the challenges faced by women in politics, the HRCP stated that "women Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) staged a walkout over inappropriate gestures" in the Punjab Assembly, while the allocation of reserved seats for women and minorities faced legal setbacks. The HRCP's report on human rights also noted that "workers' rights and environmental conditions were also neglected" as sanitation workers continued to face hazardous working conditions. Meanwhile, it stated that the provincial government "failed to address dangerously high smog levels, with Lahore and Multan recording unprecedented air pollution levels in November". Raising alarm over political dysfunction and rising injustices in Punjab, the rights body stated that "Punjab Defamation Act 2024, hurriedly approved in June, was widely criticised by human rights networks for stifling free speech". It further stated that the law was subsequently challenged in the Lahore High Court as "unconstitutional". The HRCP mentioned that Punjab authorities also imposed road closures to prevent the opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests in Islamabad, calling it an infringement on the "right to movement for both political activists and ordinary citizens." Patna, July 23 : The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar has sparked a major political storm, with Mahagathbandhan leaders continuing their protest on Wednesday. They accused the Election Commission and the ruling governments of targeting the votes of marginalised communities ahead of the state elections and demanded a discussion on the issue in the Vidhan Sabha. RJD MLA Mukesh Roshan said, "Democracy is being murdered. The names of poor, oppressed, and marginalised community voters are being removed from the voter list. It seems that somewhere, the government is scared and shaken by the survey results it has received. That is why it is working to snatch away the voting rights of the poor, oppressed, and marginalised sections of society." CPI(M) MLA Ajay Kumar claimed the timing of the revision was politically motivated. "Under the ongoing SIR process, our demand is simple. The work should be done through the normal procedures. But just when elections in Bihar are about to begin, this is being carried out. This indicates that under the guise of SIR, there is an attempt to hijack the elections in Bihar, using the Election Commission as a cover." Congress MLA Shakeel Ahmad Khan added, "This current shameless government, both at the Centre and here, has no sense of dignity. It has neither self-respect nor a conscience." RJD MLA Bhai Virendra said, "All the issues have already been decided. Today's issue is the same as yesterday's... We are wearing black clothes today to symbolise our protest, to save democracy." RJD's Alok Mehta stated, "The government of Bihar came to power through the people's votes. Their votes are now being deleted, and the government is silent. The Chief Minister is silent. That's why we are protesting against this." However, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha defended the SIR process, saying, "The Election Commission is doing the right thing in Bihar. You must have seen in the newspapers that if someone has passed away, should their vote be cast fraudulently? If a person's name is registered in two places, can they vote in both?" The Election Commission, on Wednesday, said that nearly 52 lakh names have been removed from Bihar's electoral rolls as part of the ongoing SIR, citing reasons such as death or migration. Of the deletions, 18 lakh voters were found to be deceased, 26 lakh had permanently shifted to other constituencies, and 7 lakh were enrolled in more than one location. According to ECI's statement, draft electoral rolls will be published on August 1, 2025, and will include names from enumeration forms received till July 25. Of the 43.92 lakh voters not found at their registered addresses, 16.55 lakh were reported deceased, 19.75 lakh had permanently relocated, 7.5 lakh were enrolled in multiple locations, and 11,484 could not be traced. From August 1, Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will invite public objections and suggestions for additions, deletions, or rectifications in the draft rolls, with a full one-month window for feedback and corrections. Kolkata, July 23 : After West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee gave a subtle message to Congress by refraining from attacking it at Trinamool Congress' annual Martyrs' Day rally, the state leaders of the grand old party are treading cautiously, accepting this "silence" as her "initial friendly gesture", ahead of the 2026 state Assembly polls. Kolkata, July 23 (IANS) After West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee gave a subtle message to Congress by refraining from attacking it at Trinamool Congress' annual Martyrs' Day rally, the state leaders of the grand old party are treading cautiously, accepting this "silence" as her "initial friendly gesture", ahead of the 2026 state Assembly polls. At the same time, as regards the Chief Minister's war cry announcing sustained protests against the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states, the Bengal Congress leaders are taking that war cry with a pinch of salt. They feel that before seeking Congress' support on this issue, the Chief Minister should elaborate on her government's plans to prevent such harassment by taking positive measures to arrest brain-drain and workers' migration from West Bengal to other states. On July 21, while addressing the annual Martyrs' Day rally, the Chief Minister launched a scathing attack against the BJP and CPI(M) and accused them of having a clandestine "understanding" in West Bengal. However, in her address, the Chief Minister carefully avoided her pet version of putting "BJP-Congress-CPI(M)" within the same bracket in the West Bengal perspective, which she had done till the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. According to West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee leader Ashok Bhattacharya, it does not matter for the country's oldest national party whether the Chief Minister remains silent on it or not at the Martyrs' Day rally. "First, the Chief Minister should make her stand clear on Congress both at the state level and the national level. She should explain why Trinamool Congress ensured BJP's victory in Assembly elections in certain other states like Goa and Tripura by dividing the anti-BJP votes," Bhattacharya added. Former state Congress president and five-time former party Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, too, feels that the Chief Minister's silence about Congress at the Martyrs' Day rally proves nothing, since there had been several instances in the past where she proved that "Trinamool Congress and BJP are made for each other". According to senior state Congress leader and party spokesman Soumya Aich Roy, while Congress unequivocally condemned the attack and harassment of Bengalis in BJP ruled states and also protested against it, the party's question for the Chief Minister is that what her government is doing to prevent such harassment by taking positive measures to arrest brain-drain and workers' migration from the West Bengal to other state. "Mamata Banerjee is trying to tap into the Bengali sentiment by bringing reference to Bhasa Andolan. Instead of doing this, she must provide jobs to the people so that this migration stops," he said. New Delhi, July 23 : India has approximately 7.23 million tonnes (MT) of Rare Earth Elements Oxide (REO) contained in 13.15 MT monazite (a mineral of Thorium and Rare Earths) occurring in the coastal beach, teri and red sand and inland alluvium in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Gujarat and Maharashtra, while another 1.29 MT rare earths are situated in hard rocks in parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday. The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy, is carrying out exploration and augmentation of minerals of rare earth group elements along the coastal, inland and riverine placer sands as well as in hard rock terrains in several potential geological domains of the country, said Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. Additionally, Geological Survey of India (GSI) has augmented 482.6 MT resources of REE ore at various cut-off grades in 34 exploration projects, the minister informed. The quantum of rare earth minerals exported during the last 10 years is 18 tonnes, while there have been no imports of rare earth minerals, he further stated. The minister also said that the Ministry of External Affairs is actively engaging with relevant stakeholders to alleviate the challenges arising from export restrictions on rare earth magnets imposed by certain countries. "There have been continued engagements at bilateral and multilateral level to increase cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear energy, including in rare earth minerals and related technologies. These efforts aim to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain and safeguard the interests of Indian importers," said the minister. Ministry of Mines has been working to ensure supply chain resilience for critical minerals, including Rare Earth Elements, as they are key materials for sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy and defence. In the interest of developing bilateral cooperation with countries having rich mineral resources. The Ministry of Mines has entered into bilateral agreements with the governments of a number of countries such as Australia, Argentina, Zambia, Peru, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Cote DaIvoire and International organisations such as International Energy Agency (IEA), Dr Singh said. The Ministry is also engaging on various multilateral and bilateral platforms such as Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), and initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) for strengthening the critical minerals value chain, he explained. He further stated that the Ministry of Mines has set up Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL), a joint Venture company with the objective to identify and acquire overseas mineral assets that hold critical and strategic significance, specifically targeting minerals like Lithium, Cobalt, and others. KABIL has already signed an Exploration and Development Agreement with CAMYEN, a state-owned enterprise of Catamarca province of Argentina for Exploration and mining of Five Lithium Blocks in Argentina. KABIL is also having regular interactions with Critical Mineral Office in Australia with the primary objective of acquiring critical and strategic mineral assets. Further, the Ministry has initiated the process of entering into Government to Government (G2G) MoUs with Brazil and Dominican Republic for developing cooperation in the field of Rare Earth Minerals and Critical Minerals. The broad objectives of these MoUs are to provide an overarching framework for cooperation in research, development and innovation in mining, with a particular focus on rare earth elements (REE) and critical minerals, the minister pointed out. Critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, titanium, rare earth elements etc., are demand intensive due to their strategic uses in various sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy and defence. The Ministry of Mines has also undertaken significant steps including various policy reforms to ensure supply chain resilience for these critical sectors, the minister added. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/dshmyhal Minister of Defense of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal reported that three manufacturers received state contracts for production of interceptor drones on Tuesday. "The state is developing the market of Ukrainian interceptor drones. Yesterday, three manufacturers received state contracts. In total, we already have four contracts for over UAH 3 billion. We will continue to scale these technologies," Shmyhal wrote on Facebook on Wednesday. He reported that together with First Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, he met with representatives of the Brave1 state cluster of defense innovations, the team of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, drone manufacturers and the largest volunteer funds in Ukraine. "We focused on providing drones to our soldiers on the front line. Much attention was paid to interceptor drones that are capable of countering Russian Shaheds. The President set the task of developing this direction. And we already have four state contracts with manufacturers. This week we also talked with large state banks about lending to manufacturers under state guarantees," the minister said. In addition, according to Shmyhal, the Ministry of Defense is negotiating with partners to attract financing for the purchase of such interceptors, and the first agreements have already been reached. Georgetown, July 23 : A delegation from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) reached Guyana early on Wednesday to attend the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, aiming to further bolster the partnership between the two nations in space-based applications. The summit scheduled from July 23-25 will be led by Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and is aimed at strengthening international commitment to biodiversity conservation. According to the Indian High Commission in Georgetown, this visit underlines India's cooperation with Guyana in the field of biodiversity management, environmental sciences, climate change, agriculture, disaster management and various other space applications. The delegation called on Guyanese Prime Minister Mark Anthony Phillips and discussed opportunities for expanding cooperation in space applications in areas of mutual interest. They also discussed the participation of India in Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit. "Other key areas of engagement included Guyana's leadership in biodiversity and sustainability, management of biodiversity resources, disaster response and early warning systems, climate change, and prospects for technical collaboration between India and Guyana," Prime Minister Phillips said on his social media on Wednesday. The delegation includes scientists, G. Srinivasa Rao, from the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), G. S. Pujar, with the Earth Observation and Disaster Management Programme Office, and Sudhakar Reddy Chintala, Head of the Forest Biodiversity and Ecology Division at NRSC. Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Amit Shivkumar Telang, was also present during the meeting. The delegation also called on Assistant Secretary General for Economic Integration, Innovation and Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Wendell Samuel, discussing possibilities of cooperation with CARICOM in areas of mutual interest. The High Commission added that this visit is part of India's focus on closer partnership with Guyana and other partner countries in the Caribbean as part of India-CARICOM engagement in science and technology as envisaged during the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit hosted in Guyana in November 2024, during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. When PM Modi visited the South American nation last year, India offered to work with CARICOM in the field of applications of space technology in agriculture, climate change and other areas of mutual interest, the High Commission mentioned. In November, PM Modi held extensive discussions with President Ali on several aspects of the multifaceted ties between India and Guyana. The two sides acknowledged the urgency of addressing climate change and its global multidimensional challenges. They noted that both countries were vulnerable to its impacts and pledged to cooperate on initiatives aimed at climate change mitigation and adaptation, promotion of low carbon development, and assisting in the conservation of biodiversity. Islamabad, July 23 : As torrential rainfall continues to wreak havoc across Pakistan, at least 234 people have lost their lives, and 596 have been injured since the onset of monsoon in the South Asian nation, local media reported on Wednesday. According to the latest figures released by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), most of the 596 injuries reported nationwide involved children, women, and elderly persons, highlighting the disproportionate impact of the relentless rain on the country's vulnerable groups. The devastating impact of rainfall and flash floods has damaged 826 homes in the country. In addition, a rain-induced disaster claimed the lives of two men, two women, and eight children over the past 24 hours on Tuesday, while ten others were wounded. Pakistan's Punjab province has been the worst affected with a devastating death toll of 135, which included 48 men, 24 women, and 63 children, while 470 sustained injuries. The high number of child casualties reflected the severe impact of the recent downpours on young lives, the leading Pakistani newspaper, The Express Tribune, reported. Additionally, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) province recorded 56 deaths, comprising 16 men, 10 women, and 30 children. Another 71 individuals have been injured in the province due to devastating monsoon rain. Meanwhile, in the Swat region of the K-P province, five children lost their lives in separate rain-related incidents. In Malam Jabba's Sur Dherai, while crossing a stream with their mother, two young boys drowned, while in Gujar Band Shanko, three children died, and a woman was critically injured in a house collapse triggered by rain. Furthermore, in Sindh, 24 people died and 40 were injured, while in Balochistan, 16 people lost their lives and four were injured due to rain-triggered incidents. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued high-level alerts for persistent heavy to very heavy rainfall across several regions in the country. The risk of urban flooding reportedly persists in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, and other major cities. The NDMA's National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has urged all provincial authorities, rescue services, and humanitarian partners to remain on high alert. Chennai, July 23 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, currently admitted to Apollo Hospitals here after experiencing giddiness during a morning walk on Monday, has continued to oversee government affairs from his hospital bed. Despite being under medical observation, the 72-year-old leader interacted with senior officials, reviewed the status of key welfare initiatives, and cleared important files. Stalin took to social media to assure the public of his continued engagement. "While in the hospital, I inquired about #WithYou_Stalin camps from district collectors and the public, and also signed government files. After the rest advised by doctors, I will soon visit your districts to meet you!" he wrote in a post on X. Stalinas post comes as a reassurance to party cadres and the public, many of whom had expressed concern over his health. Doctors have advised him to take a few more days of rest, but the Chief Minister has made it clear that governance must continue without interruption. According to an official statement, Stalin held discussions with Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam on Tuesday (July 22) and reviewed the ongoing 'Ungaludan Stalin' (#WithYou_Stalin) grievance redressal camps being held across districts. He also interacted virtually with district Collectors and members of the public, taking stock of petitions and the implementation of various welfare measures. Launched earlier this month, the aWith You Stalina initiative is aimed at strengthening the governmentas direct engagement with citizens. As of July 22, over 5.74 lakh petitions have been received through the camps. Stalin instructed officials to ensure swift and effective redressal of grievances and to conduct the camps as scheduled, with adequate amenities for attendees. During his hospital stay, Stalin has also been clearing files and approving administrative decisions. Officials said his active involvement despite being hospitalised has served as a morale boost for the bureaucracy and his party workers. The Chief Ministeras office added that once doctors permit, Stalin will resume his visits to various districts to personally oversee the implementation of government programmes and interact with the people. Bengaluru, July 23 : BJP's Karnataka unit chief B.Y. Vijayendra on Wednesday said that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his family members remain accused in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) scam case, and the Supreme Court has not declared them innocent. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Vijayendra said, "The Supreme Court has rejected the petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the MUDA scam case, and I accept that. I also respect the sensitive observations made by the Apex Court. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has not been given a clean chit." He further added, "Even today, the BJP's stand is clear: the Chief Minister and his family members are involved in the MUDA scam. An FIR has been registered against them, and the Supreme Court has not pronounced them innocent. Siddaramaiah remains an accused in the case." Vijayendra emphasised that the matter is serious and warrants an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Earlier, Siddaramaiah had welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Karnataka High Court verdict, which quashed the ED notice against his wife in the MUDA case. He had demanded a public apology from the BJP and JD(S) leaders. The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by the ED, which had challenged the Karnataka High Court's order quashing the ED notice to Karnataka CM's wife and Minister Byrathi Suresh. The CJI bench had objected to the ED notice. Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai remarked that he unfortunately has some experience with such matters in Maharashtra. "Please do not force us to say something. Otherwise, we will have to make some very harsh remarks about the ED. Let political battles be fought among the electorate. Why are you allowing yourself to be used for this?" the bench questioned. Meanwhile, speaking on the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe mass grave allegations at a Hindu pilgrimage site in coastal Karnataka, Vijayendra said, "The matter should be investigated thoroughly and transparently so that the truth comes out. However, the state government must ensure that this issue is not used to disturb harmony or spread propaganda." Vijayendra also criticised Congress leaders for allegedly creating ruckus in front of the BJP headquarters, Jagannath Bhavan, in Bengaluru, saying, "This is unacceptable. We have already submitted a memorandum to the Bengaluru Police Commissioner to curb this menace. I urge Shivakumar to take responsibility and put an end to this." Kyiv, July 23 : Ukraine lost a French-supplied Mirage 2000 fighter jet on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Wednesday. "Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft today, a French machine, a very effective one -- one of our Mirage jets," Zelensky said. The pilot successfully ejected, Zelensky said, noting that the crash was not caused by a Russian attack. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the aircraft went down during a flight mission, causing no casualties on the ground, Xinhua news agency reported. Ukraine received its first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France in February. The crash marked the first reported incident involving a French-supplied Mirage aircraft in Ukraine. The fighter jets are flown by Ukrainian pilots who had been trained for several months in France. On June 6, 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would provide Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine. "We will launch a new cooperation and transfer Mirage 2000-5s," said Macron. The French leader also promised to train a whole Ukrainian battalion of 4,500 troops, to be deployed on the battlefield. He said the delivery of French fighter jets "is not a factor of escalation" and promised "these weapons will not be used to bomb civilians." Additionally, Macron didn't exclude the possibility of sending military instructors to Ukraine. "There should be no taboo on this subject," he said in an interview. Mirage 2000 is a French multi-role, single-engine, fourth-generation jet fighter, manufactured by Dassault Aviation. It is capable of carrying precision-guided munitions, including SCALP missiles. Kyiv has, however, not specified the number of the delivered or the total number of jets that France plans to deliver to Ukraine. According to the French daily Le Monde, the French Air Force owns only a limited number of fighters -- 26 Mirage 2000-5 jets out of around 200 Mirage and Rafale aircraft. These fighters barely suffice for France to carry out all the missions for which it is responsible on a day-to-day basis, a report cited. New Delhi, July 23 : The Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives will boost Indian exports and promote regional stability in the Indian Ocean region. FIEO President SC Ralhan said that this visit comes at a pivotal moment of Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations reaching the final stages. "We hope that high-level discussions will foster greater consensus on trade facilitation measures and achieve our shared objective of doubling bilateral trade by 2030." Further, the visits underscore India's growing stature as a key player in the international economic arena," he added. PM Modi's visit to the UK is expected to inject fresh momentum into the IndiaUK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) covering trade, technology, innovation, defence, climate change, and other key sectors. Ralhan hopes that FTA will boost exports in multiple Indian industries, including textiles, apparel, leather, gems and jewellery, pharmaceuticals, marine and engineering goods. "The agreement is likely to eliminate tariffs on Indian garments and textiles, enhancing their competitiveness in the UK market," he said. Further, it may streamline regulatory approvals for Indian pharmaceutical products in the UK and open up new opportunities for Indian IT, business services and professional services firms. Later, PM Modi will visit the Maldives from July 25 to 26, as the guest of honour in its independence anniversary. PM Modi will discuss with his Maldivian counterpart the IndiaMaldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership that encompasses infrastructure, tourism, fisheries, connectivity, and maritime security. This visit reflects India's commitment to the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR's maritime goal, the FIEO president said. He stressed that the Maldives is crucial to the Indian Ocean region. Closer economic and maritime cooperation with Maldives will foster mutual growth, promote regional stability, and open new opportunities for Indian exporters, particularly SMEs related to tourism and sustainable development, he added. PM Modi on Wednesday embarked on a two-nation visit to the UK and Maldives, hoping to solidify bilateral relations and expressing confidence that the visit will yield tangible outcomes. Chandigarh, July 23 : For the first time, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is conducting full-scale batches of training at elite Indian Army formations in the Kashmir Valley, a major step toward strengthening its operational readiness amid evolving security challenges, a senior official said on Wednesday. According to CISF Commander Lalit Pawar, whose unit has been deployed for the security of Punjab and Haryana civil secretariats in Chandigarh, the battle-hardiness refers to preparing its personnel to swiftly and effectively respond to crises at high-value and high-risk installations such as airports, nuclear facilities, government buildings, and Parliament. The emphasis is on handling complex, high-pressure scenarios such as drone incursions, coordinated terrorist attacks, insider threats, and sabotage operations with speed, precision, and calm. Previously, only a limited number of CISF personnel were allotted seats for such exercises. Now, following close coordination between CISF and the Army, and in recognition of the critical national interest, the Army has agreed to provide comprehensive training modules to larger contingents. The modules include night operations, jungle warfare, close-combat tactics and endurance-building drills. He said these modules are designed to build on CISF's already robust experience in urban counter-threat operations, while now enhancing its ability to operate in complex terrains and high-threat zones. The goal is to equip personnel to professionally handle contingencies such as armed infiltration, sabotage, and multi-pronged terror strikes in both urban and rural environments. He said the personnel selected for this high-intensity training are part of CISF's Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), the first responders to emergencies across all 369 units of the force. Only those under 35 years and who have passed the battle physical efficiency test aligned with National Security Guard (NSG) standards were eligible. Notably, these QRT members have already completed a rigorous six-month in-house CISF training before joining the Army module, he added. He said the CISF plans to expand this form of advanced combat training to more units, starting with the most sensitive and high-risk locations. The aim is to gradually bring all CISF personnel to a higher threshold of physical endurance, tactical proficiency and psychological resilience, ensuring the force is always prepared to protect the nation's critical infrastructure from emerging threats. This marks a significant move to make the force "battle-ready" against unconventional and hybrid threats. Kolkata, July 23 : Tauseef Raja alias Badshah, the prime accused in Patna gangster Chandan Mishra's murder case, had attempted to alter his appearance by shaving his head and beard to deceive police and evade arrest. A senior Kolkata Police officer said that Tauseef had used a service app to call a barber to the Anandapur guest house in the southern outskirts of Kolkata, from where he was arrested. "There, the barber got his head, beard, and moustache shaved. The aim was to hoodwink the police. Even his cousin, Nishu, who was arrested from the same guest house, also had his hair trimmed and beard shaven to avoid being identified and arrested," the city police official said. However, the officer added, their makeover attempts did not work out, and finally, both of them, along with their two other associates, were arrested. The city cops said that Tauseef and Nishu adopted yet another tactic to hoodwink the police. Instead of parking their vehicle within the guest house premises, they parked the same near a high-rise building, which is almost 100 meters away from the guest house. "This was done to deliberately confuse the cops and divert their attention from the guest house," the city police official said. He admitted that initially, after nabbing them, the sleuths were slightly confused following their makeover. "However, after questioning him, the police were convinced that they had nabbed the right persons," said the city police official. The police have also learned during the investigation that Tauseef and Nishu had come to Kolkata several times before. "They had stayed here for a few days and had several acquaintances. The police are investigating these acquaintances who are residents of different pockets like Tiljala," said the city cop. Patna gangster Chandan Mishra was shot dead by five armed assailants inside the ICU of a private hospital in Patna on July 17. Following a joint operation by the Bihar Police and the Special Task Force of West Bengal Police, four men were arrested from a guest house in the Anandapur area of Kolkata on July 19. The arrested were identified as the prime accused Tauseef, his cousin Nishu, his caretaker Bhim Kumar, and male nurse Harsh Kumar. The four arrested were produced in an Alipore court on July 20. The court allowed the Bihar Police a 48-hour transit remand. Moscow, July 23 : A Russian delegation has left for Istanbul where the third round of negotiations with Ukraine could begin as early as Wednesday evening, the country's media reported. The delegation from Moscow is headed by the Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky while the Ukrainian delegation is led by the National Security and Defence Council Secretary Rustem Umerov. The previous two rounds of talks, also held in Istanbul on May 16 and June 2 resulted in the exchange of prisoners but yielded little progress on reaching a ceasefire. The Ukrainian President had appointed Umerov, a former Defence Minister who headed the Ukrainian delegation in the previous two talks in Istanbul, as Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council last month. "The momentum of the negotiations must be stepped up," Zelensky said. "Everything should be done to achieve a ceasefire." The Kremlin has downplayed expectations for the upcoming meeting. "We don't have any reason to hope for some miraculous breakthroughs," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday, calling such outcomes "hardly possible in the current situation." Russia intends to "pursue our interests, we intend to ensure our interests and fulfill the tasks that we set for ourselves from the very beginning," he noted. Peskov also said that Moscow and Kyiv are "diametrically opposed" in their positions on how to end the conflict, noting that "much work" still needs to be done, Xinhua news agency reported. Following the last round of peace talks, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the blueprints for a peace deal shared by the two sides were "absolutely contradictory memorandums." As Russia demands Ukrainian neutrality, a pledge to stay out of military alliances, and international recognition of Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson as Russian territories, Ukraine's memorandum noted the country is "not forced to be neutral." "It can choose to be part of the Euro-Atlantic community and move towards EU membership. Ukraine's membership in NATO depends on consensus within the Alliance," it said. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian President announced last week that his government will ramp up domestic arms production to meet half the country's military needs within six months. He added that Ukraine has also developed its own long-range drones to strike deep inside Russia. New Delhi, July 23 : Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla conducted experiments on three indigenous microalgal species and two cyanobacteria strains on the International Space Station to study the sustainability of human life in space, the Union government informed the Parliament on Wednesday. Last month, Shukla became the first Indian to reach the ISS. He returned on July 15, after an 18-day mission, packed with several experiments, led by ISRO, and other activities on the orbital lab. In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh, shared the details of the experiments conducted onboard the ISS to boost biological life support systems for futuristic space missions. "Three indigenous robust microalgal species, namely, Chlorella sorokiniana-I, Parachlorellakessleri-I, and Dysmorphococcus globosus-HI, were experimented on the International Space Station (ISS) to study the impact of microgravity, CO2, and O2 levels simultaneously in space and on the Earth (indoor lab)," Singh said. "These microalgae have the potential to function effectively in microgravity environments and grow fast on Earth to produce value-added products of industrial importance, while in space, capturing excess CO2 from the ISS cabin and making vital nutrients and food supplements to support the astronauts' lives in space," the MoS said. Singh noted that IAF Group Captain Shukla also studied the growth of two cyanobacteria strains -- an Indian isolate of Spirulina, and a very fast-growing Synechococcus strain -- on two different nitrogen sources, nitrate and urea, in microgravity. "The cyanobacteria experiment is expected to demonstrate the ability of cyanobacteria to recycle both carbon and nitrogen," the Minister said. It will also be an important progress towards developing cyanobacteria-based biological life support systems for futuristic space missions, he added. The space journey and experiments conducted by Shukla -- the youngest astronaut-designate under India's Gaganyaan mission -- are expected to be a key stepping-stone for India's human spaceflight mission, slated for 2027. The National Police of Ukraine extradited from the United Arab Emirates the organizer of a fraudulent scheme under the guise of fees for drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which caused Ukrainians over UAH 50 million in losses. "The scheme operated from summer to autumn 2023. The participants created a network of controlled enterprises and accounts through which they collected funds, including in cryptocurrency. At the start, they really fulfilled several orders to gain trust, offered discounts of up to 20%, and then embezzled money under the guise of fictitious agreements: about the "supply" of textiles, spare parts, and tourist services that never existed," the National Polices website said on Wednesday. The participant was hiding abroad, but at the request of the Ukrainian police, she was detained and extradited for further investigation and prosecution. The police documented 99 episodes of criminal activity. Dozens of investigative actions were carried out, international connections of the participants in the scheme were established in the UAE, Turkey, and Russia. Property was seized as part of the case: 6 cars, 3 apartments, over 25 bank accounts, and 16 crypto wallets. The total amount of the seized assets exceeds UAH 20 million. Other episodes of the group's criminal activity were separately documented - during blackouts, the defendants sold non-existent starlinks, and during the fuel crisis, fake fuel coupons. All these facts are attached to the materials of the proceedings. "Total losses exceeded UAH 50 million - this is the cost of over 600 modern drones that could work on the front line," the report states. The fraudulent scheme was exposed in February 2024. As a result, the accomplices were detained and charged with fraud and money laundering on a particularly large scale (Part 5 of Article 190 and Part 3 of Article 209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). The main organizer was extradited with the assistance of the Department of International Police Cooperation of the National Police of Ukraine in cooperation with the law enforcement agencies of the United Arab Emirates. She is currently in custody. The sanction of the incriminated articles provides for up to 12 years of imprisonment with confiscation of property. New Delhi, July 23 : The government has approved six semiconductor manufacturing projects so far with a cumulative investment of around Rs 1,55,000 crore, which are expected to generate more than 27,000 direct job opportunities, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday. The government introduced the 'Semicon India Programmea, with an outlay of Rs 76,000 crore for the development of the semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in the country, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, told the Lok Sabha in a written reply. Semiconductor manufacturing is a highly specialised industry requiring a complex manufacturing process. Therefore, most of the jobs created in this industry are skilled jobs. Further, as the semiconductor industry is a foundational industry, these units are expected to have a cascading effect on employment generation in the other sectors and the supply chain down the line. "Under the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, the fiscal support is provided to the approved startups and MSMEs. Out of 22 design companies approved under the scheme so far, 3 companies are in the state of Telangana," the minister informed. Apart from the above, design infrastructure support has also been approved for 11 companies in Telangana. Moreover, under the Chips to Startup (C2S) programme, 22 institutes from Telangana are being supported with design tools, and 6 institutes are being provided financial support, Prasada said. Similarly, out of 22 design companies approved under the DLI scheme, so far, 3 companies are approved in Tamil Nadu. Design infrastructure support has also been approved for 6 companies in Tamil Nadu. The C2S programme aims to develop 85,000 skilled manpower in the semiconductor sector. Under this programme, engineering institutions are provided with the necessary software and tools to design semiconductor chips. More than 45,000 students from 100 institutions have been enrolled. A Skilled Manpower Advanced Research and Training (SMART) Lab has been set up in NIELIT Calicut in 2022 with an aim to train 1 lakh engineers nationwide. More than 42,000 engineers have already been trained. The government is also collaborating with industry and universities such as Lam Research, IBM, and Purdue University, said the minister. New Delhi, July 23 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the special leave petitions filed by KAL Airways and businessman Kalanithi Maran seeking damages of more than Rs 1,300 crore from the Ajay Singh-led SpiceJet. A bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and A.S. Chandurkar refused to interfere with an order of the division bench of the Delhi High Court, which had dismissed the appeals filed by KAL Airways and Maran solely on the ground of delay without going into the merits. Ajay Singh had sold SpiceJet to Maran and then repurchased the airline in January 2015, after the low-cost air carrier had been grounded for a prolonged period due to financial difficulties. Maran of Sun Network and KAL Airways had transferred their 58.46 per cent stake in SpiceJet to Ajay Singh for a mere Rs 2, along with a Rs 1,500 crore debt liability. Maran and KAL Airways had claimed to have paid Spicejet Rs 679 crore for issuing warrants and preference shares as part of the agreement. However, Maran then approached the Delhi High Court in 2017, alleging that SpiceJet had neither issued convertible warrants and preference shares nor returned the money. The issue was referred to arbitration, where a tribunal comprising three retired apex court judges had rejected Maran's claim for Rs 1,323 crore in damages from Ajay Singh-led SpiceJet. The tribunal ruled that Maran owed Ajay Singh and the airline Rs. 29 crore in penal interest, while Ajay Singh was asked to reimburse Maran Rs. 579 crore along with interest. It also ruled that there was no violation of the share sale and purchase agreement made between Maran and the current promoter, Ajay Singh. Both parties challenged the arbitral award before the Delhi High Court. In 2024, a division bench of the Delhi High Court set aside a decision of the single bench upholding the arbitral award and remanded the matter for fresh consideration. Following this, Maran and KAL Airways attempted to revive their pending appeal seeking damages exceeding Rs. 1,300 crore, which the Delhi High Court dismissed on grounds of delay a" a position now affirmed by the Supreme Court. Lucknow, July 23 : Former Samajwadi Party MP S.T. Hasan on Wednesday welcomed Supreme Court's order for all the hotel owners along the Kanwar Yatra route to display licences and the registration certificate, stating that there is no harm in doing so. In its order, the Justice M.M. Sundresh-led Bench said that all the hotel owners shall comply with the mandate of displaying the license and registration certification as required under the existing law. The apex court clarified that it has not gone into the merits of the plea, which contended that the directive to display the QR codes is a breach of privacy rights and has a discriminatory and stigmatising effect. Reacting to this, Hasan told IANS: "I have always been saying that one should not do business by hiding their name. Islam does not permit deceiving anyone. Our faith is that the One who created us is the same One who provides sustenance." He stated that the directive aims to make consumers aware of which shop their food is coming from, and there shouldn't be any issues with that. "The QR code only indicates whose goods they are. There is no issue with that. The situation in this state and country has become such that politics has greatly increased hatred, which causes harm to Muslims. Vandalism occurs, problems are created, and later, the cases that are filed are registered against Muslims, not against those who commit violence," he said. Stressing that Islam only teaches honesty and truth, Hasan said: "We should now speak and live in a way that we present our truth; we present ourselves with utmost honesty. This is what our religion and faith teach." Ahead of the holy month of Shravan, when Kanwar Yatra begins, the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand state governments have issued an advisory mandating the display of a QR code that allows pilgrims to access "ownership details" of the shopkeepers to make sure that there is no adulteration in the food that the Kanwariyas will buy. New Delhi, July 23 : The recent 'political meeting' of Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and party MPs inside a mosque in Delhi's Parliamentary Street has snowballed into a major controversy, with political rivals denouncing the act and also Muslim clerics objecting to such assembly inside the religious structure. BJP Minority Morcha president Jamal Siddiqui said that the SP supremo has broken the rules and customs of Islam by taking his wife Dimple Yadav along with him inside the mosque and also called for the removal of Imam Maulana Mohibullah Nadvi for facilitating 'political activity' inside the mosque. He said that the BJP Minority Morcha will soon lodge a case against Maulana Mohibullah Nadvi, the Imam of Parliament masjid, who also serves as the Lok Sabha MP from Rampur. Earlier, the All-India Muslim Jamaat president Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi demanded immediate removal of the Imam for violation of basic Islamic principles. Jamal Siddiqui, speaking to IANS, said, "Akhilesh Yadav is treating the sacred place of worship as his own property. I strongly condemn this act. Simultaneous entry of men and women in the mosque is forbidden. Though there are arrangements for women on the first floor of the mosque, Akhilesh and his wife Dimple Yadav were seated together. This is gross violation of Islamic customs." He also said that as per Islamic customs, women have to be fully covered but Dimple Yadav was not dressed as per Islamic conventions, and this amounted to a clear violation of their religious sentiments. Jamal Siddiqui further said that he will also take up the matter with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta regarding the misuse of position by Maulana Mohibullah Nadvi and continuing to occupy the accommodation near Parliament masjid despite having an MP bungalow allotted to him. "Once he has become parliamentarian, how is he availing the benefits of Imam. He is using religion for achieving his political ambition," he further charged. He also called out the self-proclaimed defenders of Islam and asked why people like Asaduddin Owaisi, All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), were staying mum on the issue and not taking umbrage over violation of Islamic principles. Changzhou, July 23 : India's rising badminton star Unnati Hooda produced a stunning performance to knock out veteran Scottish shuttler Kirsty Gilmour in straight games at the China Open 2025, setting up an all-Indian Round-of-16 clash with PV Sindhu. Changzhou, July 23 (IANS) Indiaas rising badminton star Unnati Hooda produced a stunning performance to knock out veteran Scottish shuttler Kirsty Gilmour in straight games at the China Open 2025, setting up an all-Indian Round-of-16 clash with PV Sindhu. The 17-year-old displayed exceptional composure and skill to win 21-11, 21-16 in just 36 minutes, marking one of the biggest victories of her young career on the BWF World Tour. From the outset, Unnati looked sharp and confident, keeping the pressure on Gilmour with tight net play and well-placed smashes. Her ability to control the pace of rallies and draw errors from the experienced Scot was a highlight of the match. The teenager raced through the first game, giving Gilmour little chance to recover. The second game saw more resistance, but Unnati never lost grip on the contest and closed it out with maturity beyond her years. With this win, Unnati not only progressed to the pre-quarterfinals of a Super 1000 event but also earned a rare chance to test herself against PV Sindhu a" Indiaas most decorated womenas shuttler a" in what promises to be a generational showdown. Earlier in the day, two-time Olympic medallist Sindhu fought past Japanas sixth seed Tomoka Miyazaki 21-15, 8-21, 21-17 to advance to the next round. Sindhu started strongly, using her experience to dominate the first game, but Miyazaki hit back emphatically in the second. In the decider, Sindhu raced to an early lead and fended off a late charge from the teenager to seal victory in 62 minutes. This was Sindhuas first win over Miyazaki, who had beaten her at the Swiss Open last year. In menas doubles, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty eased into the Round-of-16 with a convincing 21-13, 21-9 win over Japanas Kenya Mitsuhashi and Hiroki Okamura. However, it was a disappointment for the womenas doubles duo Rutaparna and Swetaparna Panda, who lost to a higher-ranked Hong Kong China pair. New Delhi, July 23 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah had vowed to wipe off naxalism from the country by March 2026. Looking at the success rate of the security forces, it appears to be a possibility, but there are challenges ahead. In a stark warning, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that urban naxals from outside the state were using funds to spread rumours and keep the people of Gadchiroli from the path of development. He made the statement while addressing a gathering at an event in the Gadchiroli district, which has been a hotbed for Naxalites. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and various other agencies, in the aftermath of the Bhima Koregaon violence, flagged the urban naxal issue. The agencies spoke about how these persons living in the cities were propagating for their friends in the jungles and were also raising funds for them. When the deadline was set by the Home Minister and the security forces began acting on the same, the Intelligence Bureau had warned that while the fight in the jungles may die down, the propaganda machinery would continue to spread disinformation. Fadnavis made it clear that they all need to be alert about the urban naxals. They are spreading false information, he said. He pointed out that when Gadchiroli began to progress and a foundation stone for a steel plant was laid, the very next day, a campaign was started on social media. The posts claimed that the tribals were being killed and the steel plant was being constructed on their lands. Another campaign was launched by the urban naxals, where it was claimed that forests were being cut on a large scale. It was surprising since the government of Maharashtra had not done anything of that sort. Fadnavis pointed out that investigations showed that those who were running the campaigns were not even from Maharashtra. Two were from Kolkata and two from Bengaluru. These persons were found to be working on foreign funding, he added. Officials are confident that the battle against the Naxalites in the jungles will end by 2026. The people in these Naxalite-affected areas have been supportive of the security forces as they feel safe, and more importantly, they are seeing development. However, the battle after 2026 would be a hard one, as several agencies have already pointed out the problem that Fadnavis pointed out. Post the 2019 investigation by the NIA and the noose being tightened on foreign funding, the urban naxal problem has come down to a large extent. However, there are still many elements that will continue to pose a problem and rake up emotions. The Union Home Ministry is already working on a post-2026 plan, and this includes the sympathisers of the Naxalite movement who live in urban areas. Teams are being set up to closely monitor content that goes on social media. Fake protests could also erupt in a bid to provoke the people. These teams would also closely monitor funding to these elements, which could be used to unleash a huge disinformation campaign. In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections last year, a massive campaign regarding the Constitution of India cropped up. The sympathisers of the Naxalite movement are planning something on this front during which they will instigate people against the Constitution. These elements are likely to use social media heavily to start such campaigns. They are well aware that if the disinformation campaign takes off and the people get agitated, then all the good work will be lost. They have in the past and will in the future try and mislead and instigate the gullible people in the villages. Fadnavis, during his address, said that some people (urban naxals) are trying to create confusion among the people by spreading rumours to keep them away from development. Quetta, July 23 : Another Baloch civilian was forcibly disappeared by Pakistan's Frontier Corps (FC) during a raid on his home in Kech district of Balochistan amid an ongoing wave of enforced disappearance across the province, a leading human rights organisation said on Wednesday. Paank, the Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department, mentioned that FC personnel raided the home of Abdost Jogi in Kech in the early hours of Tuesday and forcibly took him without a warrant or any legal justification. Highlighting the witness report, the rights body stated that Jogi was abducted and moved to an unknown location, with no information provided to his family. "This incident adds to the growing number of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, where state forces continue to target civilians under the guise of security operations," Paank stated. The organisation unequivocally condemned the enforced disappearance of Jogi and held the Pakistani military responsible for the blatant violation of human rights. It stated that such abductions are in direct breach of both domestic constitutional protections and international human rights conventions. The human rights body also condemned the extrajudicial killing of Mazar Baloch, a resident of Awaran district in Balochistan, by the Pakistani army. Revealing the brutal incident, Paank stated that on July 21, Mazar was summoned by the Pakistani army to appear at the Central Cantonment in Mashkai in Awaran district, and complying with the order, he presented himself as required. It further stated that on his return, Baloch was targetted and killed by an armed death squad operating under the supervision of the Pakistani army in Khandri village in Mashkai. "Mazar Baloch's killing is a grave violation of human rights and reflects a disturbing pattern of state-sponsored violence in Balochistan. It is particularly egregious that Mazar had previously endured enforced disappearance by Pakistani forces in 2015, only to be released in 2020. For the past five years, he was repeatedly summoned to various military camps, subjected to ongoing harassment, and coerced to comply with military directives. Despite his consistent declarations of innocence, his life was brutally taken in a premeditated act of violence," Paank stated. The human rights body demanded an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into Mazar Baloch's killing, as well as accountability for those responsible, including the Pakistani army and the death squads operating under its protection. Paank urged the international community, including the United Nations, to address the escalating crisis of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Balochistan, describing that these acts are part of a systematic campaign of repression, constitute war crimes and must be met with justice. Mumbai, July 23 : IT services giant Infosys on Wednesday reported a 1.61 per cent decline in net profit on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis for the April-June quarter, with the figure standing at Rs 6,924 crore compared to Rs 7,038 crore in the previous March quarter (Q4 FY25). Mumbai, July 23 (IANS) IT services giant Infosys on Wednesday reported a 1.61 per cent decline in net profit on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis for the Aprila"June quarter, with the figure standing at Rs 6,924 crore compared to Rs 7,038 crore in the previous March quarter (Q4 FY25). However, on a year-on-year (YoY) basis, the company posted an 8.7 per cent rise in net profit, according to its stock exchange filing. The companyas revenue rose 7.5 per cent YoY to Rs 42,279 crore, while on a sequential basis, revenue was up by 3.3 per cent, compared to Rs 40,925 crore in Q4 FY25. The companyas total expenses rose slightly to Rs 33,581 crore in Q1, compared to Rs 32,452 crore in the previous quarter. Infosysa gross profit also improved to Rs 13,055 crore, from Rs 12,138 crore in the year-ago quarter. Infosys revised its full-year FY26 revenue growth guidance to 1-3 per cent in constant currency, raising the lower end of the forecast. CEO and MD Salil Parekh said the Q1 performance reflects the companyas strength in enterprise AI, client consolidation, and the dedication of its over 3 lakh employees. The company secured $3.8 billion in large deals during the quarter, with 55 per cent of the wins coming from new clients -- further strengthening its position in the global IT market. In terms of operating margins, Infosys posted 20.8 per cent in Q1, slightly down by 0.3 per cent YoY and 0.2 per cent QoQ, but remains confident of maintaining the margin in the 20a"22 per cent range for FY26. Among business verticals, financial services led the growth with 5.6 per cent YoY increase in constant currency (CC) terms. The manufacturing segment also posted strong growth at 12.2 per cent, while retail and hi-tech showed minor improvements. However, life sciences declined 7.9 per cent, and other segments contracted 15.3 per cent. Infosys also reported robust free cash flow of $884 million, with cash flow conversion exceeding 100 per cent for the fifth consecutive quarter. CFO Jayesh Sanghrajka said the impact of currency volatility was well managed due to Infosysa proactive hedging strategy. On the human resources front, Infosys reported a slight increase in voluntary attrition, which rose to 14.4 per cent in Q1 from 14.1 per cent in Q4, and 12.7 per cent in Q1 FY25. The companyas workforce stood at 323,788 employees at the end of June 2025 -- reflecting a net addition of 210 employees during the quarter and a year-on-year increase of 8,456. Infosys shares closed 0.8 per cent lower at Rs 1,558.9 on the NSE on Wednesday, ahead of the earnings announcement. New Delhi/Agartala, July 23 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday told Tipra Motha Party (TMP) that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls would be conducted across the country, party supremo Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma said after meeting the poll panel. A nine-member delegation of the TMP, led by Debbarma, met the full ECI led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and demanded the SIR in Tripura similar to the procedure being adopted in Bihar. Two Election Commissioners -- Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi were also present in the meeting at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi. After meeting the ECI, Debbarma, a former royal scion, said that one of the key agendas discussed was the immediate implementation of the SIR in Tripura, and the Commission has assured that the SIR would be conducted all across the country, including in Tripura. "Illegal migration is affecting our state and northeast, and today, if we don't identify illegal voters, there will be no tomorrow for our next generation. The good news is that the ECI has assured the delegation (TMP) that SIR will be conducted across the country, including Tripura," the TMP chief told the media. The TMP, in a letter to the ECI, demanded to conduct the SIR of the electoral roll in Tripura, accompanied by a comprehensive door-to-door verification exercise, similar to the model recently adopted in the state of Bihar. The tribal based party said that Tripura shares an 856-km international border with Bangladesh, much of which remains porous and inadequately fenced, posing serious challenges in monitoring and preventing illegal immigration. "The unchecked influx of undocumented immigrants has not only disrupted the socio-economic balance of the region but has also led to the dilution of electoral rolls, threatening the democratic rights of the indigenous tribal communities and undermining electoral fairness," said TMP, an ally of the ruling BJP in Tripura. The TMP letter, signed by Debbarma, the state's two ministers -- Animesh Debbarma and Brishaketu Debbarma -- said: "It is now an open secret that many illegal immigrants have obtained Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPICs), Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, driving licences, and even passports, often by fraudulent means. Corrupt officials, local brokers, and political strongmen helped the illegal migrants to procure these documents. In some cases, they have even managed to shift their Register of Residence (RoR) records from one place to another for electoral advantage. This is no longer just a Tripura-specific issue; it is a matter of national security, with serious implications for the democratic fabric of the country." The TMP delegation informed the ECI that in September 2012, around 1,46,000 illegal voters were identified in the state and at that time, leading local newspapers had reported that Vinod Saxena, the then joint Election Commissioner, personally visited Tripura and directed the authorities to carry out a correction of the electoral rolls. "Unfortunately, despite the gravity of the situation, these directives were never acted upon, and the anomalies have continued unchecked. Furthermore, a look at the Census data from 1971 to 1991 reveals that Tripura experienced a rate of population growth far above the national average during that period. The pattern continues to this day and it is visible in various demographic and electoral indicators," the TMP said. TMP chief Debbarma earlier said that illegal infiltrators would jeopardise the socio-economic and customary aspects of the state's indigenous people, especially the tribals. "The Government should take stringent steps to prevent the illegal infiltrators from entering India. Those already illegally staying in Tripura and other states must be pushed back immediately," the TMP chief had told IANS. The TMP launched a widespread anti-infiltration campaign across Tripura in May this year. The party's senior leader and Forest and Environment Minister Animesh Debbarma had said that no infiltrators would be allowed to stay in Tripura. "Government should deport those infiltrators who came to Tripura after March 1971," Minister Debbarma said. Patna, July 23 : The monsoon session of the Bihar Legislative Assembly on Wednesday witnessed high drama and uproar, leading to an adjournment after a heated exchange between the ruling party and the opposition. After the session, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav interacted with the media persons at his official residence, launching a scathing attack on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sinha. Tejashwi stated that while he was raising concerns about the timing of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, senior leaders from the ruling party, including the Deputy Chief Minister, made objectionable and indecent remarks during his address. Bihar Leader of the Opposition said the Deputy Chief Minister remarked, "How much will he speak?" while he (Tejashwi) was speaking, calling it "against the dignity of the House." "If the Leader of Opposition will not speak in the House, then who will?" Tejashwi questioned, accusing the ruling party leaders of deliberately creating a ruckus to lower the dignity of the House. Tejashwi also pointed out that the Speaker reprimanded the Deputy Chief Minister and a minister, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. Questioning the voter revision campaign, Tejashwi stated that the Election Commission's affidavit in the Supreme Court does not mention foreign citizens, yet ruling party leaders are claiming fake voters are from Nepal and Bangladesh, calling it an attempt to mislead the public. The RJD leader targeted the BJP, asking: "If the issue of fake voters is true, why has it not been resolved despite the BJP being in power in Bihar since 2005 and at the Centre for the last 11 years?" He accused the ruling party of avoiding debate when presented with evidence and creating chaos instead. Taking a sharp dig at Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi remarked that the Chief Minister stood up and started speaking without knowing what the discussion was about, expressing "sympathy" towards the Chief Minister's condition. "Everyone in the House knows what the discussion is about, but the Chief Minister does not, and he keeps saying whatever he wants to say," he said. Tejashwi Yadav alleged that Bihar's government is now being run by remote control from Delhi. "Earlier, voters used to choose the government, but now the government and the election commission are choosing the voters." The incident has further heated the political atmosphere in Bihar, with the opposition intensifying its attack on the government over the voter list revision process. Ukraine and Israel agreed to launch a separate dialogue on the Iranian threat Sybiha Photo: https://mfa.gov.ua/ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar have agreed to launch a separate dialogue on the Iranian threat against the backdrop of common threats. Sybiha said this at a joint press conference with Saar in Kyiv on Wednesday. "Today, our countries are facing common security challenges. Iran and Russia pose an existential threat not only to our countries, but also to global security," Sybiha said. He stressed that Iran continues to destabilize the region and is trying to develop its nuclear program. The Foreign Minister stressed that Moscow, Iran, and the Russian Federation "have united in a single alliance of criminal regimes that support each other and threaten the entire free world." "Against these threats, we agreed to intensify bilateral cooperation. And today we decided to launch a separate dialogue on the Iranian threat. We agreed on this with the minister," Sybiha noted. Mumbai, July 23 : Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta has urged the 'Saiyaara' actors, Ahaan Pandey and Aneet Padda, to avoid rushing into and take their time to decide on their next project. Urging them to think wisely before locking in their upcoming drama, the 'Kaante' maker wrote on his X timeline, "For Ahaan Pandey and Aneeta Whatas happening to their launch film SAIYAARA is unprecedented. So it would be amazing to see them set a new precedent and not rush into their next film. Take their time and decide wisely, setting new benchmarks." Recently, Sanjay applauded Yash Raj Films and the 'Saiyaara' team for defying industry norms and keeping Ahaan and Aneet away from the pre-release interviews of the romantic entertainer. "Whoever took the decision at YRF to keep the lead apair of Saiyaara away from all the pre-release interviews, appearances, and podcasts is a genius," he wrote. "They kept alive the freshness exclusively for the big screen. And look at how it's worked (sic)," the 'Zinda' maker penned. Bashing Bollywood's long-standing dependence on overpromotion, he mentioned in another Tweet, "Film business was running smoothly. Then corporates came and tried to rewrite the rules... One of their biggest screw-ups was P&A (Publicity & Advertising). It was purely to looto producers (sic)." In addition to Sanjay, many B-town celebs used social media to shower praises on Mohit Suri's directorial. Taking to the stories section of his Instagram, Varun wrote, "Very rarely you feel hungover after watching a film. The film has stayed with me and I'm sure it will with all of us for years to come." Lauding Suri, Ahaan, and Aneet, the 'October' actor added, "@mohitsuri ur best ur a star...@ahaanpandayy what can I say ur so so good and so honest. Every scene u had me with you man. @aneetpadda_ur face just made all our hearts melt so good.. god bless u Entire @yrf a leader in every way." "Saiyaara" reached the cinema halls on July 18th and opened to raving reviews. New Delhi, July 23 : The consistent decline in gross non-performing assets (NPAs) of the public sector banks (PSBs), in the past five financial years, has energised the common people as well as investors on account of a positive outlook for the economy, but politically, the sentiment remains divided. A couple of leaders, pertaining to BJP, Congress and CPI, sharing their views on Finance Ministry's recent report, said, "NPAs of public sector banks witnessed a slump from 9.11 per cent in March 2021 to 2.58 per cent in March 2025." BJP welcomed the reduction in NPAs in the past four years, calling it a progressive step. Congress called it an eyewash while CPI remained sceptical of such an outcome. Shantanu Thakur, MoS for Shipping and Waterways, termed this a significant achievement and said that the nation is steadily moving ahead under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BJP MP Brij Lal said that this is great news for the country as well as countrymen. "This is big news. If the percentage of non-performing sectors is decreasing, it means the performing sectors are growing. That's exactly why we are the fourth-largest economy in the world, and soon we will be the third. So, this is great news for the country and for all Indians," he said. On the other hand, Congress MP Manish Tewari accused the government of hiding the losses and said that the banks suffered huge setbacks, but it was not reflected in the report. "The government should disclose how many such individuals, in the past 9-10 years since the implementation of IBC, took loans from banks and later got away by repaying only 4-5 per cent of the amount causing significant losses to the banks," he said. Saptagiri Ulaka, another Congress MP, said, "These are just numbers. Unless we go into the details, we won't understand the full picture. I believe numbers alone don't provide the right answers." CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar told IANS, "If it's true, then it's good, but I can't comment much on this, as I haven't seen the report yet. If it's genuine, it's a positive sign because NPA is a major issue." "The question is, how did it reduce?" he asked. Jaipur, July 23 : In a bold departure from the colonial-era image of policing built on fear and force, Rajasthan is ushering in a new era of citizen-centric law enforcement through its expansive community policing initiative. With over three lakh volunteers, including Suraksha Sakhis, Police Mitras, CLG members, and student cadets, the state is fostering direct public engagement to build trust, ensure safety, and humanise the role of the police. This shift marks a significant step toward transforming the police from enforcers into community partners, redefining public perception and rebuilding confidence in law and order, said Pankaj Choudhary, IPS, SP & Nodal Officer, Community Policing Rajasthan. In the colonial era, the then police officers showed the stick and earned revenue by instilling fear among the public; however, now we want to change the perception of the police. Community policing in Rajasthan is playing a transformative role in bridging the gap between the police and the public, with the help of these 3 lakh registered volunteers, said Chaudhary. Speaking to IANS, Chaudhary highlighted that Rajasthan has been drawing inspiration from progressive policing models in southern states like Kerala. "During our 2023 visit to a police station in Kerala, we noticed how well-equipped they were - having vehicles like ambulances and Thar jeeps stationed at the thana level. They don't rely on external emergency services; instead, they are self-sufficient. We still depend on hospitals for ambulances during accidents and other emergencies. If we adopt such a model - having our own ambulances and vehicles - it can make a real difference," he said. He acknowledged that in terms of infrastructure and community engagement, Kerala is one step ahead. However, Rajasthan has made commendable progress in recent years by introducing people-centric policing initiatives. Rajasthan's community policing model includes Suraksha Sakhis numbering 37,000. He pointed out that these are Women volunteers, especially from rural backgrounds, who act as intermediaries between victims and police, particularly in cases of domestic violence, eve-teasing, and alcohol abuse. These women help victims who are hesitant to approach the police directly and speak on their behalf in police stations to ease their challenges. Also, Police Mitras are counting around 40,000. These are volunteers who assist in traffic management, crowd control during festivals and processions, and accident response. They often record incidents and help transport victims to hospitals. " We also have (Community Liaison Groups) CLG members who number 98,000 and work to improve public trust in the police. There are Gram Rakshaks (35,000) and Student Cadets who engage in grassroots awareness and community support." "We've also established Swagat Kaksh (Reception Rooms) at police stations where in-charges are trained to listen to victims and counsel them in a friendly and non-threatening environment when they come to get their complaint filed. This shift towards a more empathetic approach is helping change the public perception of police," said Choudhary. "Our goal is to move away from the colonial-era image of police, associated with fear and punishment, to a service-oriented, citizen-friendly force. Abroad and in southern India, this has already been achieved to a great extent. Now, we're working to build the same trust and dialogue here," he said. He added that students are being encouraged to visit police stations. "In Hanumangarh, some students recently interacted with the SP and came away with a positive impression. When they go back and talk about their experience, it helps improve the image of the police." He emphasised that looking at such paradigm changes, people are rewarding those who perform outstanding work, and are also being recognised. "Some of our team members were referred to as 'Devdoot' (angels) during flood rescue operations by the SDRF. We believe that community policing must be acknowledged and rewarded," Chaudhary emphasised. During a meeting with the DPRD (Department of Panchayati Raj and Development), it was suggested that every police station should host students regularly to build relationships and instil trust in the system. "Now, we're working to match global standards and those of progressive Indian states to create a trust-based, dialogue-driven policing model," he concluded. Dublin, July 23 : The Indian Embassy in Ireland said on Wednesday that it is in touch with the Irish authorities after an Indian national was violently assaulted in Tallaght - a southwestern outer suburb of Dublin - over the weekend. "Regarding the recent incident of physical attack on an Indian national that happened in Tallaght, Dublin, the Embassy is in touch with the victim and his family. All the requisite assistances are being offered. Embassy is also in touch with the relevant Irish authorities in this regard," the Indian Embassy in Ireland posted on X. An Garda Siochana, Ireland's national police and security service, has also launched a probe after a man was violently assaulted and partially stripped by a group of attackers in Tallaght on Saturday at about 6 pm (local time). The man, who is in his 40s, and originally from India, was injured after he was set upon and severely beaten by a group of young men before passersby came to his rescue. His trousers were also removed by the attackers, The Irish Times reported. According to the Irish media, the attack is being probed as a possible hate crime. The group had falsely accused the man of acting inappropriately around children. These claims were later shared on the internet, including by prominent far-right and anti-immigrant accounts. The police authorities said that the man was taken to Tallaght University Hospital with injuries and discharged from the hospital early Sunday morning. Investigators believe some of the attackers have conducted other unprovoked attacks on foreign nationals in the Tallaght area recently. Paul Murphy, a People Before Profit TD for the area, condemned the attack on the man and said that itas "horrifying to see a vicious attack like this happen in our neighbourhood." He further stated, "Responsibility lies not just with those who perpetrated the violence but also with those who have been spreading racist lies. The community is really shocked and outraged and will stand together against violence, hate and division". New Delhi, July 23 : The Election Commission on Wednesday said that 98.01 per cent of electors in Bihar have been covered under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. So far, 20 lakh deceased electors have been reported, while 28 lakh have permanently migrated. Another 7 lakh electors were found to be enrolled in more than one location, and 1 lakh were marked untraceable, the ECI said. The Election Commission said it has received and digitised 7.17 crore Enumeration Forms, accounting for 90.89 per cent of the state's electors. However, 15 lakh forms were not returned. It said the lists of incorrectly included electors and those who have not returned their Enumeration Forms were shared on July 20 with 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) nominated by district presidents of the 12 major political parties in Bihar. Bihar electors temporarily residing outside the state and not registered elsewhere can submit their forms online at https://electors.eci.gov.in, through the ECINet mobile app, or by filling a printed form. The completed and signed printed form can be sent to the respective Booth Level Officer (BLO) via a family member or through WhatsApp. Names of electors who have submitted their Enumeration Forms will be included in the Draft Electoral Roll, to be published on August 1, marking the end of the first phase of SIR. Electors can track the status of their form at: https://electors.eci.gov.in/home/enumFormTrack. SMS alerts have been sent to electors whose mobile numbers were mentioned in their forms. In case of any discrepancies in the Draft Roll, electors or political parties can file objections with the concerned ERO or AERO by September 1. Similarly, eligible individuals whose names are missing can also file claims until the same date. The Election Commission has urged citizens to participate actively in the verification process of electoral rolls. The final roll will play a crucial role in shaping Biharas democratic landscape. New Delhi, July 23 : The busting of a fake embassy by the Noida unit of Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) on Wednesday unravelled many startling details about the kingpin Harshvardhan Jain and on modus operandi. Harshvardhan Jain, who ran the fake embassy and duped people by posing as ambassador of different nations, did his BBA from Ghaziabad and MBA from London. He had also set up several fake companies abroad and was running a job scam by promising people work abroad and sending them abroad. He is also accused of being part of a money laundering racket through hawala and forging diplomatic documents. He created fake companies in London, Dubai and African countries. He was duping common people and companies with the help of vehicles with diplomatic number plates, foreign flags and fake documents. Based on the secret information received by STF, a raid was conducted at the house located at KB-35, Kavi Nagar, on July 22 at around 11:30 pm. Many expensive possessions, including four luxury cars with diplomatic number plates, flags of various countries and several fake documents, including a huge amount of cash, were recovered from the spot. According to the police, the arrested accused Harshvardhan Jain, aged 47, belongs to a reputed industrialist family of Ghaziabad. He came in contact with Chandraswami in the year 2000 and also met many arms dealers, and from there, he started a series of fraud at the international level. He declared himself as the ambassador of self-proclaimed micronations like Seborga, West Arctic and Pulbia Lodonia and used them to dupe common people and companies in India. He had converted his house in Ghaziabad into a fake embassy from where he was carrying out various types of brokerage, fraud and hawala activities. He had also put up many photoshopped pictures at his house, featuring big politicians. Bhopal, July 23 : Bhopal District Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh's order banning E-rickshaws in some selected routes in the city sparked a controversy as the opposition Congress called it an "arbitrary" decision, asserting that it would affect the livelihood of hundreds of families. The collector had issued an order banning E-rickshaws in two phases following multiple rounds of discussion with senior administrative officials and Lok Sabha MP Alok Sharma. He issued an order to ban the use of E-rickshaws to ferry school children due to safety reasons on July 19. Two days later, he also ordered to ban the operation of E-rickshaws on some selected routes in the city. The directives issued by the Bhopal district administration came into effect from Monday; however, several E-rickshaws were spotted ferrying school children in several parts of the city till Wednesday. On Wednesday, around 500 E-rickshaw operators gathered at a busy square in the city and staged a protest against the ban on E-rickshaws. However, they accepted a ban on the use of E-rickshaws ferrying school children. Meanwhile, the Congress workers also joined the protest, extending support to E-rickshaw operators. The opposition warned of a major protest if the district administration's order was not withdrawn soon. Senior Congress leader and former minister P. C. Sharma also joined the protest. He said that restricted routes should be opened for E-rickshaws. "Decision to ban use of E-rickshaws to ferry school children is a welcoming step, but banning their operation in the city is arbitrary. This decision would affect the livelihood of hundreds of families in Bhopal," said Sharma. The VIIP routes where the operation of E-rickshaws has been restricted are - Raj Bhavan to Polytechnic Crossing, Polytechnic Crossing to State Hangar, Boat Club area, and Hamidia Road. Similarly, roads connecting from Alpana to Bhopal Talkies, Apex Bank to Roshanpura, and Link Road 1. Further, from Board Office Square to Apex Ban, Katju Hospital Tiraaha to Rangmahal Tiraaha, Vande Mataram to 10 Number Stop,10 Number Stop to National Hospital, 10 Number Market to Roshanpura flyover. A police official deployed at the protest site, talking to IANS, said that it has also been found that untrained and teenage drivers are driving the E-rickshaws and that too at high speed, which makes the vehicle more unsafe, particularly when being used to ferry children. According to Bhopal police, around 12,500 E-rickshaws are currently registered in Bhopal. Though these battery-powered vehicles arenat officially affiliated with schools, many parents are using them to send their wards to school. Bengaluru, July 23 : Panic gripped Bengaluru's Kalasipalya bus stop after an unattended bag was found outside a public toilet on Wednesday. Acting on information about a suspicious bag, Bengaluru Police rushed to the spot and recovered gelatin sticks and detonators outside a public toilet at the overcrowded Kalasipalya bus stop. Confirming the incident, DCP (West) S. Girish said: "Six gelatin sticks and some detonators, both separately packed, were found in a carry bag outside the toilet located on the premises of the Kalasipalya Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus stand. An FIR is yet to be registered." The explosive materials were discovered around 2 p.m. They were kept in separate bags near the toilet. The jurisdictional Kalasipalya Police have launched a probe into the incident. DCP Girish personally visited the site and is monitoring the investigation. More details are awaited as the investigation is still in its early stages. Kalasipalya is a communally sensitive and densely populated area in Bengaluru, and the discovery has raised serious concerns among residents and security agencies. Last week, over 40 private schools in Bengaluru received bomb threat messages via email. The bomb threat shocked parents and created confusion in the vicinity of the schools. Schools in several areas, including Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Kengeri, in Bengaluru were threatened through an anonymous email message. Several schools in the national capital also received bomb threats via email. Following this, the police administration jumped into action and deployed teams outside the targeted schools. Last week, Golden Temple in Amritsar also received a bomb threat. Punjab police claimed to have detained an unemployed software engineer in this connection. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had received multiple emails, warning of RDX blasts, prompting the deployment of heightened security. Chandigarh, July 23 : Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said on Wednesday that in an advancement of the government's efforts to conserve groundwater through sustainable agricultural practices, the state saw 11.86 per cent increase in area dedicated to direct seeding of rice (DSR) compared to last year. He said paddy has been sown using water-conserving DSR technique at over 2.83 lakh acres this year, up from 2.53 lakh acres in the last year. He expressed hope that the area under DSR will rise further as paddy sowing is still going on. The minister said the government has been offering Rs 1,500 per acre to farmers adopting the DSR method. He said the financial assistance was transferred into the bank accounts of 24,032 farmers who adopted the DSR technique during the kharif season of 2024. Minister Khudian reaffirmed the government's commitment of encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. He also congratulated the Agriculture Department officials for promoting the water-saving method. Administrative Secretary (Agriculture and Farmers Welfare) Basant Garg said that the Agriculture Department has taken various proactive steps to promote the direct seeding of rice. The department has been organising awareness campaigns and farmer training camps to provide hands-on knowledge, besides conducting field demonstrations to showcase the technique's effectiveness and sensitise farmers about the advantages of DSR. With a land area of only three per cent of the net cultivated land of the country, Punjab contributes 25-35 per cent of rice and 38-50 per cent of wheat to the central pool of food grain. The state ranks fourth in the world in terms of productivity and first in India among all the other states. In neighboring Haryana, the paddy is currently sown over 34 lakh acres in Haryana. Of this, 57 per cent of the area is under basmati, which matures two weeks later than the non-basmati type. New Delhi, July 23 : A Delhi court on Wednesday deferred till August 5 the pronouncement of its decision on framing charges against Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president Lalu Prasad Yadav, his family members and others accused in the IRCTC hotel scam case. The alleged scam took place between 2004 to 2009 when Lalu Prasad was the Union railway minister. During his tenure, two hotels were given on lease without following the norms. Special judge Vishal Gogne, who was slated to deliver the verdict on Wednesday, deferred the pronouncement till August 5. The Rouse Avenue Court had reserved its order on May 29 after hearing detailed arguments on framing of criminal conspiracy, cheating and corruption charges against the accused persons. Besides, Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav, Prem Gupta, Sarla Gupta, Railway officials Rakesh Saksena and P.K. Goyal are also accused in this case. The case is related to the alleged irregularities in giving the contract of maintenance of two IRCTC hotels to a firm when Lalu Prasad Yadav was the Railway Minister. One of the hotels was allotted to Sarla Gupta, who is wife of Prem Gupta, a close friend of Lalu Prasad. He was also a Rajya Sabha MP at that time. As per the prosecution, the RJD leader got three acres of prime land through a benami company. Claiming that there were no irregularities on his part, Lalu Prasad said that the tenders were awarded fairly and sought a discharge. Last week, the Supreme Court refused to entertain Lalu Prasadas plea seeking a stay on the proceedings of the trial court in the land-for-job case. He had moved a special leave petition (SLP) before the top court challenging the Delhi High Courtas rejection of his application to stay the trial proceedings. This came after the trial court took cognisance of the multiple charge sheets filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under the Prevention of Corruption Act. As per the CBI, during the period 2004-2009, Lalu Prasad (then Railway Minister) had obtained pecuniary advantages in the form of transfer of landed property in the name of his family members in lieu of appointment of substitutes in Group 'D' posts in different Zones of the Railways. A number of residents of Patna themselves or through their family members sold and gifted their land in favour of the family members of Lalu Prasad and a private company controlled by him and his family. Photo: https://t.me/ambassador_brodsky/1300 Israel supports Ukraine and its people, and condemns Russian attacks against civilians, said Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who is on a visit to Kyiv. As reported by the Interfax-Ukraine agency, Saar stated this at a joint press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Sybiha in Kyiv on Wednesday. "We condemn Russia's attacks on civilians. We call for a strong and lasting peace that will ensure the security of Ukraine," he said, emphasizing that Israel supports Ukraine and its people. Saar also emphasized that it is a great honor for him to be in Kyiv and express solidarity and support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. "Israel and Ukraine have special ties. Both of our countries are going through difficult and difficult times. We are both facing war and pain. We are both resilient nations," he emphasized. Separately, the minister noted that Ukraine has a large Jewish community and that the first prime minister, Golda Meir, was born in Kyiv. Saar also announced that today he and Sybiha will visit Babyn Yar. "The Nazis brutally murdered over 100,000 people there, mostly Jews. In just two days, they brutally murdered over 33,000 Jews. We must never forget this," he added. Bengaluru, July 23 : Google has generated Rs 4 lakh crore in app revenue in India, and significantly contributed towards developer jobs in the country in 2024, the tech giant said on Wednesday. Citing data from Public First, an economics, policy, and opinion research consultancy, the tech giant lauded Indian developers and startups shaping AI use with Google. "Based on third-party evaluations, the Google Play and Android ecosystem generated Rs 4 lakh crore in revenue for app publishers and the wider economy in India in 2024," Google said in a blog post. The ecosystem led to the creation of 35 lakh direct, indirect, and spillover jobs in the country, the tech giant said. "The Indian ecosystem comprises the second largest number of active developers on Google Play across the world, contributing over 10 lakh developer jobs in 2024," it added. The ecosystem played an important role in shaping the impact and inclusiveness of India's digital economy. "Indian developers are literally writing the next chapter of India's success story, using AI capabilities to build real-world applications that are reaching millions of businesses and people across India and the world," said Dr. Manish Gupta, Senior Director for India and APAC at Google DeepMind. "We're giving India the best tools, the most open platforms, and the strongest support to build boldly for the world, fostering a profound 'AI Productivity Leap' across businesses and startups," added Preeti Lobana, Country Manager, Google India. To support the Indian developer and startup ecosystem further, the tech giant, at the Google I/O Connect India 2025 held in Bengaluru, announced its high-performance thinking model Gemini 2.5 Flash, new Agentic AI tools in Firebase Studio, a new training programme with one of the world's leading gaming engine platforms -- Unity. It mentioned collaborations with three India AI Mission startups -- Sarvam, Soket AI, and Gnani -- in building innovative solutions toward the development of the country's Make-in-India AI models. The tech giant also announced measures expanding the availability of fresh and accurate information in Google Maps, comprising over 250 million places worldwide, enabling developers to build better generative AI features. Jaipur, July 23 : Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Wednesday that the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as the Vice President of India only reinforces the fear that democracy is under "threat" in India. Jaipur, July 23 (IANS) Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Wednesday that the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as the Vice President of India only reinforces the fear that democracy is under "threat" in India. "I have been saying again and again - democracy is under threat in the country. This resignation only reinforces that fear. Until just 15 days ago, Dhankhar was saying he would remain in office until 2027. Then suddenly he resigns, despite being in good health. What was the pressure? Only he or his conscience can answer," Gehlot said while speaking to media persons at the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee headquarters, where he had come to pay tribute to veteran Congress leader Parasram Maderna on his birth anniversary. He claimed that both the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman had been working under pressure. "I said this earlier in Jodhpur. In response, Dhankhar, at a recent programme of former MLAs in Jaipur, publicly denied it, saying he neither works under pressure nor puts pressure on others. But now that he has resigned, it raises doubts. Somewhere, there is a link. Only Dhankhar or his conscience knows the truth." Gehlot also questioned the conduct of central agencies and institutions, including the Election Commission. "When the EC itself starts deleting voters' names, how will democracy survive? In Bihar, there is a complete breakdown. In Maharashtra, they won in a one-sided manner. The misuse of institutions is blatant," he said. Calling for public participation to resist such trends, Gehlot said that the responsibility to save democracy doesn't lie with political parties alone, and the common citizens must rise. "Support the truth - whether it lies with the government or the opposition otherwise, the BJP-RSS bullying will continue, and the people will suffer," he said. Regarding the Congress's stance on Dhankhar, Gehlot said the party's position had remained consistent. "Some debate that we moved a no-confidence motion earlier and now are reaching out to him. But our stand is principled - then and now." He added that constitutional posts like the Vice President deserve dignity. "If there was a problem, a better way could have been found. This sudden exit raises more questions than answers. The resignation appears politically driven, and Congress strongly objects to how it unfolded." Gehlot also commented on the frequent opposition complaints against Speakers and Chairpersons. "It is often said that once a Speaker takes office, they should rise above party lines. But in many cases, that impartiality is missing. Leaders like CP Joshi and Parasram Maderna set examples of running the House neutrally," said the former Chief Minister. New Delhi, July 23 : Raising the political stakes in poll-bound Bihar, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday hinted at the possibility of the opposition Mahagathbandhan boycotting the upcoming state elections, alleging that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is being used to manipulate the voter list in favour of the ruling NDA. In an exclusive interview with IANS from Patna, the RJD leader accused the Election Commission of acting under the BJP's influence and undermining the democratic process. "If the BJP wants to run the government using fake voter lists, then just give them an extension. What's the point of holding elections if the entire process is dishonest?" Tejashwi Yadav said. "Boycott is an option, but we will think about it. We will consult our alliance partners and the public before taking a final call," he added. Tejashwi Yadav slammed the Election Commission for not addressing concerns raised by the Opposition, claiming that genuine voters are being deleted from the rolls while the EC is busy showcasing inflated revision figures before the Supreme Court. "Earlier voters chose the government, now the government is choosing voters," he said, calling the exercise a "fraudulent drive." The statement comes amid uproar in the Bihar Assembly, where RJD and other opposition party MLAs demanded a full-fledged debate on the SIR process. "Bihar is the cradle of democracy, and attempts are being made to strangle it," Tejashwi Yadav alleged, blaming Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for silencing discussion on the issue. He also backed Rahul Gandhi's recent allegations of electoral manipulation in other states, citing instances where dozens of voters were registered at a single BJP worker's address. Despite ongoing alliance uncertainties, Tejashwi Yadav confirmed that seat-sharing and leadership decisions within the INDIA bloc have been finalised and will be announced soon. Meanwhile, he dismissed the NDA's constant reference to "jungle raj" as a diversion from real issues. "Nitish Ji is fighting his last election. The JD-U is collapsing. No one can stop that now," he added. Patna, July 23 : As the Patna High Court quashed his conviction in a criminal case, BJP legislator from Alinagar (Darbhanga) Mishrilal Yadav on Wednesday met Bihar Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav, submitted a copy of the court order, and demanded the restoration of his Assembly membership. Mishrilal Yadav, who lost his Assembly membership after being sentenced to two years' jail by the Darbhanga MP-MLA court in a 2019 case, has expressed happiness over the High Court verdict. "I am happy that I have got justice. I was implicated in a false case under a conspiracy, but truth has won," Yadav said. The case originated from a January 2019 FIR filed by Umesh Mishra, a resident of Samaila village, alleging assault by Mishrilal Yadav and his aides. After the investigation, the police filed a charge sheet, and the court took cognisance of the case on April 17, 2020. On February 21, 2024, the lower court convicted Mishrilal Yadav under Section 323 of the Indian Penal Code (voluntarily causing hurt) and sentenced him to three months' imprisonment and a fine of Rs 500. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the MLA sought a pardon and appeared before the court on May 22, 2025, hoping to secure relief. Following the appeals, the court enhanced the punishment. District and Additional Sessions Judge Suman Kumar Diwakar sentenced Mishrilal Yadav and Suresh Yadav to two years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh each. Mishrilal Yadav was elected as an MLA from Alinagar in 2020 on a Vikassheel Insaan Party ticket but later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Previously, he had served as a Mukhiya and a Legislative Councillor before becoming MLA. His membership was cancelled after the lower court's conviction but he voted in favour of the NDA during the Nitish government's 2024 trust vote before his membership was formally invalidated. Looking ahead, Mishrilal Yadav has expressed his intent to contest the 2025 Assembly elections on the BJP symbol, stating that he is hopeful the party will give him a chance again. Bengaluru, July 23 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday held a meeting with representatives of various trade unions to discuss concerns over GST notices issued to small traders for non-payment of taxes. The meeting addressed grievances and proposed solutions to support small businesses. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that notices were issued only to traders with UPI transactions exceeding Rs 40 lakh, initially to prompt GST registration. He assured that no taxes would be collected from traders dealing in exempt goods like milk, vegetables, meat, and fruits, but those liable under the law must comply. The Chief Minister further announced that old tax arrears would not be pursued, provided all such traders register under the GST and start paying the GST in the future. Registration is not required for those who sell exempted goods. CM Siddaramaiah has stated that he has asked the trade bodies to withdraw the agitation on July 25 at the Freedom Park. They have assured me that no protest will be staged. They have dropped all types of protests planned till July 25, he added. The government emphasised its commitment to supporting small traders and ensuring lawful business operations. It will provide assistance for timely tax payments and enhance the existing helpline for better accessibility. The state, which ranks second in India for GST collection, shares 50 per cent of the revenue with the central government, as decided by the GST Council chaired by the Union Finance Minister, CM Siddaramaiah stated. The government also assured transparent operations and help the traders in every possible way legally. Trade bodies confirmed they have not supported any bandhs and agreed to withdraw planned protests following the Chief Ministeras assurances. The government reiterated its focus on empowering small traders and boosting purchasing power through various programmes, CM Siddaramaiah stated. "The Commercial Tax Department had issued 9,000 notices. Notices were issued to those conducting transactions above Rs 40 lakh, asking them to pay 1 per cent tax. It is the central government that imposes GST, not the state government. We have only directed that GST registration be made mandatory. In the meeting, the traders agreed to register under GST," he said. Trade union representatives, including the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), raised concerns about confusion among small traders regarding GST notices, which often include loan amounts and personal transactions. They urged the government to allow traders to directly resolve issues with the Commercial Tax Department without intermediaries and to provide sufficient time to settle dues. Suggestions included launching a dedicated helpline and conducting awareness programs to clarify GST regulations. They also requested a one-time waiver of old tax arrears. However, Karnataka State Karmika Parishat President Ravi Shetty said: "There will be no rollback of the protest on July 25. Those who originally called for the protest have been excluded from the meeting, which is not right. All bakeries, condiment stores, and shops will remain closed, and the protest will be staged as planned." Imphal, July 23 : In view of apprehension of influx of illegal migrants into Manipur, especially due to the turmoil situations in neighbouring countries, the Manipur government on Wednesday asked all the 16 district authorities to keep the highest vigil along the state's international and inter-state boundaries, officials said. Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar asked the district authorities to form district-level task forces to detect illegal infiltrators and to take suitable action. Kumar suggested forming the district-level task force under the leadership of the Additional Superintendent of Police of the District. Other officials to be included in the task force are an official from the Deputy Commissioner's office, a representative of Assam Rifles or BSF or CRPF, as desired by the team leader and a biometric staff. The Commissioner (Home) in his directive said that all Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police shall keep robust mechanisms to prevent anyone from crossing into state boundaries illegally and shall ensure to maintain utmost vigil at international, inter-state and inter-district boundaries so as to prevent any such movement. Any illegal movement, if detected, should be immediately reported, and biometric details of such persons should be captured mandatorily, the order said, adding that such illegal migrants shall have to be kept in put at secured designated locations for providing shelter and humanitarian support without allowing them to get mixed up or naturalised with local people. All such illegal migrants shall be deported after following due procedures, the order said. Kumar asked all Deputy Commissioners to constitute a district-level committee with members from District Police to conduct checking at all suspected locations and shall conduct regular review of the same. "Deputy Commissioners should regularly monitor the exit-entry points under the Border Pass System. Tracing of defaulters/overstayed cases shall be done through District Police," said the order of the Commissioner (Home). Manipur shares around 400 km of unfenced international border with Myanmar in the southeast, while the state is bounded by Nagaland in the north, Assam in the west and Mizoram in the south. An official said that though Manipur has no border with Bangladesh, the neighbouring states Assam and Mizoram share a porous border with Bangladesh, and there is an apprehension of infiltration from that country into Manipur. Hyderabad, July 23 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Wednesday accused the BJP of stalling 42 per cent reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) by using Muslim community as an excuse. He alleged that the leaders of saffron party were playing politics of sentiment by stating that they would back 42 percent quota for BCs if Muslims are removed from the list of BCs. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, he clarified that Muslims are being extended the benefits of reservation on the basis of their backwardness. He dared BJP to scrap reservation for Muslims in the states ruled by it or its allies. He asked why the BJP was not scrapping Muslim quota in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. He alleged that BJP is adopting double standards on the issue of Muslim reservation and trying to derive political mileage by whipping up passions. "You can't have one justice for Telangana and another justice for other states," he remarked. He warned that if BJP oppose Backward Class reservation, the party will be wiped out from Telangana. Revanth Reddy along with some state ministers and Congress leaders arrived in the national capital to mobilise support of various parties for including two state laws for 42 per cent Backward Class reservation in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution. The Chief Minister recalled that the state legislature passed two Bills for 42 per cent quota for BCs in education, employment and public life and sent the same to the Centre for including in the 9th Schedule. Revanth Reddy also pointed out that the local body elections have to be conducted in the state by September as per the direction of the High Court. "If 42 percent seats in local bodies are to be reserved for the BCs, the Centre will have to give its approval," he said. The Chief Minister said there was no justification in the argument that total reservations should not cross 50 per cent. He claimed that the Centre crossed this limit long back with 10 per cent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). The Chief Minister also demanded that a leader from Telangana should be made the Vice-President of India. Revanth Reddy said Bandaru Dattatreya, whose tenure as Haryana Governor has just ended, should be made Vice-President. He alleged that since Dattatreya is an OBC leader he was sidelined to make G. Kishan Reddy the union minister. He said similarly Bandi Sanjay was removed as state BJP president and a Brahmin was recently appointed as the state BJP chief. Hyderabad, July 23 : The digital world mourns the untimely death of 'Atheist Krishna', a beloved content creator whose blend of humour, satire, and emotional depth earned him admiration from fans and public figures alike. Krishna, whose real name was Radhakrishna Panga, passed away early Wednesday morning due to complications from pneumonia. He was 29. Former Union Minister Smriti Irani expressed her condolences, acknowledging Krishna's impact on public discourse and the emotional resonance of his work. "His wit, creativity, and artistic flair made the internet smile." News of his passing was first shared by fellow creator @nainaverse on X, who posted screenshots of a WhatsApp conversation with Krishna's brother confirming the tragic loss. Krishna had been battling a severe medical condition that caused fluid buildup in his lungs. His final message, sent on July 10, included a photo from the hospital and a hopeful exchange with Naina, who replied: "Sab theek ho jayega. Stay strong." On July 22, her follow-up message went unanswered. Krishna's brother later informed her that he had died at 4.30 a.m. His rise to prominence was marked by his unique Photoshop edits and witty memes that resonated across India's digital landscape. In 2019, actor Akshay Kumar recorded a video message praising Krishna's work, saying: "Mere kuch dost hain jo tujhe jante hain kamal ka jo kaam karta hai tu to bring smile on people's face." Akshay Kumar added that he had shown one of Krishna's memes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who "had a hearty laugh". Tributes poured in from across the creative community. Actress Rupali Ganguly wrote: "The timeline feels emptier today! @Atheist_Krishna wasn't just a master of visual satire, he was emotion wrapped in sarcasm and humour. His Photoshop jokes made us smile and laugh, but his silence today leaves a void. You'll be missed, Krishna. Om Shanti." Krishna's legacy lives on in the countless images and moments he helped restore, reimagine, and reframe. His work was more than digital artit was a bridge between memory and meaning, between laughter and loss. Baghdad, July 23 : A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry confirmed. The incident occurred in the al-Amin neighbourhood after an electrical transformer caught fire due to high temperatures and heavy overload, sparking a blaze that quickly spread to the nearby civilian house, the source said on condition of anonymity. Civil defence teams rushed to the scene to put out the fire, the source added. The incident came just a few days after a massive fire broke out at a hypermarket in Kut, the capital of Iraq's eastern Wasit province, which claimed the lives of at least 61 people. Iraq has witnessed multiple fire incidents recently, as many parts of the country are undergoing a scorching summer heat that reaches 50 degrees Celsius, Xinhua News Agency reported. On July 17, the Interior Ministry said that the death toll from a devastating fire at a hypermarket in Kut, the capital of Iraq's Wasit province, has risen to 61. A massive fire broke out in a five-story commercial building housing a restaurant and a hypermarket on July 16, which had only been open for seven days. The statement said that most of the 61 victims were suffocated to death as a result of heavy smoke, and among them were 14 unidentified charred bodies. The fire has been brought under control and civil defence teams managed to rescue over 45 people trapped inside the building, the statement added. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani had then ordered the dispatch of immediate medical assistance to support efforts in treating and caring for the injured. Warsaw, July 23 : Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a sweeping government reshuffle on Wednesday, which includes the creation of two new ministries and a significant reduction in the size of the Council of Ministers. Under the reorganisation, a new Ministry of Finance and Economy will be established, to be headed by current Finance Minister Andrzej Domanski. A separate Ministry of Energy will also be formed, with Milosz Motyka, currently deputy minister of climate and environment, appointed as its leader. Wojciech Balczun will take the helm of the Ministry of State Assets, while Stefan Krajewski, deputy minister of agriculture and rural development, will be promoted to lead the Ministry of Agriculture. Two existing ministries, the Ministry of Development and Technology, and the Ministry of Industry, will be dissolved as part of the restructuring. Tusk said the reshuffle aims to improve efficiency and streamline the executive branch, Xinhua News Agency reported. "We will go from having one of the largest governments in Europe to one of the smallest in terms of structure," he said. The total number of ministers and deputy ministers will be reduced to below 100. The new ministers are expected to be sworn in on Thursday, with the first meeting of the restructured cabinet scheduled for Friday. Earlier in April, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski presented the government's foreign policy objectives for 2025 in an address to parliament, reaffirming Poland's commitment to European defence, the transatlantic alliance, and the preservation of international order. Speaking before the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, in the presence of President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Sikorski described the global situation as increasingly volatile. "The world is becoming less and less predictable," he said, citing ongoing geopolitical conflicts, shifting power dynamics, and economic instability. Sikorski emphasised that the greatest danger facing Poland would be the fragmentation of the Western alliance. "We cannot afford illusions or inaction. We cannot afford to be alone," he said, underlining that Poland's future hinges on the strength of its international partnerships. Key priorities outlined in the speech included bolstering European and EU defense capacities, maintaining cooperation with the United States, defending the global order based on the UN Charter, and fostering constructive relations with the Global South. While reaffirming Poland's support for Ukraine, Sikorski clarified that Warsaw will not send troops as part of any peacekeeping mission, though it stands ready to assist such efforts in other ways. The Verkhovna Rada has prepared a bill that repeals the restrictions on the powers of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), introduced by the law adopted by the parliament and signed by the president on July 22, Member of Parliament Inna Sovsun (Holos faction) has said. "The only quick way to roll back the situation is to adopt a new bill which will cancel all the shameful changes No. 12414. My team prepared it overnight. This morning we have already sent it to other deputies for signature: Document card 1947711. Registration number 170768. Draft Law of Ukraine "On Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine and the Law of Ukraine "On the Prosecutor's Office" on the restoration of the institutional independence of bodies conducting pre-trial investigation and procedural management in cases of corruption offenses," Sovsun wrote. As reported, the Verkhovna Rada at its meeting on Tuesday supported by 263 votes in the second reading and in general draft law No. 12414, which limited the independence of the NABU and the SAPO. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk immediately signed the law and sent it to the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky for signature, while under normal practice this happens after consideration of blocking resolutions introduced by opponents. A number of politicians and public figures, as well as representatives of the European Commission, have categorically opposed this bill and called on Zelenskyy to veto it. Protests against the bill were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Rivne on Tuesday. Zelenskyy later signed this law. The document was published in the parliamentary publication Voice of Ukraine (Holos Ukrainy) on July 22. It comes into force on the day following its publication, that is, July 23. Currently, people's deputies are initiating the collection of signatures and preparing a constitutional submission to the Constitutional Court of Ukraine regarding the law on narrowing the powers of NABU and SAPO. Gandhinagar, July 23 : In a significant step towards reforming the education field in Gujarat, the Task Force Committee constituted for the evaluation of Samagra Shiksha (Comprehensive Education) submitted its detailed report to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The committee, which is headed by Jayendrasingh Jadav, was formed to make an assessment of the current implementation of the Samagra Shiksha approach. The panel was also mandated to recommend measures and various steps for what could lead to holistic development in the state's education system. This major move resonates with the broader vision of the National Education Policy (NEP), which has been implemented under the guidance and leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The NEP emphasises a balanced and inclusive educational framework aimed at improving the education quality across the country. The report submitted to the Gujarat CM outlines comprehensive recommendations aimed at nurturing not just academic excellence but also emotional and intellectual growth among students. The recommendations include the integration of sports, cultural activities, and vocational training into mainstream education. The aim of the move is to develop well-rounded individuals equipped with the skills and mindset needed for the global stage. The presentation of the report was attended by key dignitaries, including Education Minister Dr. Kuberbhai Dindor, Chief Minister's Chief Advisor Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Principal Secretary to CM Mukesh Kumar, Additional Principal Secretary Avantika Singh. Several other senior officials of the Gujarat government were also present on the occasion. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel acknowledged the committee's efforts and emphasised the importance of creating a future-ready education system. He spoke at length about how his government is working towards wider strategy to improve education system of the state of Gujarat. "The state government will carefully review the findings and take appropriate steps to implement the actionable recommendations," he assured, while addressing the attendees. According to experts, the submission of this report marks a major milestone in Gujarat's journey towards educational transformation, with a clear focus on preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Mumbai, July 23 : The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced on Wednesday that it has cancelled the licence of The Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd in Karnataka as it does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. Consequently, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business on July 23, 2025. "The Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd., Karwar, is prohibited from conducting the business of 'banking' which includes, among other things, acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits with immediate effect," the RBI order stated. The Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Karnataka, has also been requested to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator for the bank, according to the RBI statement. The RBI said the licence has been cancelled as the Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. As such, it does not comply with the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act. The continuance of the bank is prejudicial to the interests of its depositors, the RBI said. "The bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full; and public interest would be adversely affected if the bank is allowed to carry on its banking business any further," the RBI statement explained. On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive the deposit insurance claim amount of his/her deposits up to a monetary ceiling of Rs 5,00,000 from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), subject to the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. As per the data submitted by the bank, 92.90 per cent of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC. As of June 30, 2025, DICGC has already paid Rs 37.79 crore of the total insured deposits under the provisions of Section 18A of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on the willingness received from the concerned depositors of the bank, the RBI statement added. Kolkata, July 23 : The Odisha government on Wednesday informed the Calcutta High Court that not a single Bengali-speaking Indian from West Bengal was arrested by the state police in apprehension of them being illegal Bangladesh infiltrators. The counsel for the Odisha government also informed the division bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Reetobrata Kumar Mitra that some were just detained to check whether they were bona fide Indian citizens or not. The division bench then directed the Odisha government to submit the verbal submission by its counsel to the court in the form of an affidavit. The matter will come up for hearing again on August 28, and by then, the Odisha government will have to submit the affidavit to the division bench. Meanwhile, Odisha's Advocate General, Pitambar Acharya, also informed the court that the detention of some people to check their identity credentials was done under the provisions of the Foreigners Act. He also emphasised that since Bengalis are neighbours and friends of the people of Odisha, unnecessary controversies should not be created in the matter. "We are not anti-Bengali. Several Bengalis are in Odisha. The current Chief Justice of Odisha High Court was also previously a Calcutta High Court Judge," he submitted. In his counterargument, the counsel for the West Bengal government and Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee questioned whether any Tamil or any Gujarati were also detained for the same verification purposes. "Why were just the Bengali-speaking people targeted? There is a need to clarify the reason behind the suspicion," he argued. Recently, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool have been extremely vocal on the issue of alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people in different BJP-ruled states. The Chief Minister had specially accused the Odisha and Assam governments of being guilty in the matter. While addressing the Trinamool's annual Martyrs' Day rally in Kolkata, Banerjee also announced that her party will start weekend protest programmes against the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states from July 27. She described this weekend protest programme as yet another "Bhasha Andolon (Language Movement". Historically, "Bhasha Andolan" was a political movement in what was then East Pakistan, advocating for the recognition of the Bengali language as an official language of the country, which ultimately led to the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation in 1971. Modasa, July 23 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal visited Gujarat's tribal region on Wednesday to express solidarity with protesting farmers and dairy farmers. At a Mahapanchayat held in Modasa, Kejriwal slammed the ruling BJP government, stating that even after 75 years of independence, India's farmers and livestock keepers are still not getting fair prices. "And when they demand their rights, they are met with batons and tear gas." Kejriwal, joined by senior AAP leaders including Gujarat state chief Isudan Gadhvi, MLA Gopal Italia, and others, accused the BJP of systematically looting cooperative institutions, misusing dairy profits to fund political rallies, build luxurious offices, and silence dissent. "Where earlier milk producers got 16-17 per cent price hikes, they are now being offered only 9.5 per cent. Where is the rest of the money going?" he questioned. Gopal Italia said that it is shameful that in a country where agriculture is the backbone, farmers are forced to protest on roads. Italia said that profits earned by dairy producers are being diverted to build BJP offices and manipulate local dairy cooperatives through threats and bribes. Bhagwant Mann compared the situation to Punjab before AAP's rise, warning the BJP that "arrogance comes before the fall." He accused the state of trying to crush farmer voices through police brutality and false cases, adding that "this fight is not just about milk, it's a fight for justice and dignity." AAP also demanded Rs 1 crore compensation each from the Gujarat government and the Sabarkantha Dairy for the family of deceased farmer Ashok Chaudhary. An immediate rollback of the suppressed milk rate hike and full transparency in cooperative accounts. The Mahapanchayat witnessed the presence of thousands of dairy farmers and farmers from Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Banaskantha, and surrounding districts, many of whom shared stories of intimidation and harassment by local officials and BJP leaders. Isudan Gadhvi, invoking the 1985 farmers' massacre under the Congress regime, warned that history could repeat itself for the BJP if they continue to ignore farmers' voices. "This is no longer just a protest - it's a movement. Gujarat wants change." AAP leaders also accused the BJP of misusing milk testing machinery to underpay farmers based on faulty fat content calculations, defrauding producers of crores. "If bullets are fired against farmers, let them hit me first. We are not afraid. We are the heirs of Bhagat Singh," claimed Kejriwal. Islamabad, July 23 : Terming the latest ruling by Lahore Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) as "yet another chapter in the judiciary's series of controversial verdicts", the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Wednesday vowed to challenge the convictions of its senior leaders - including Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed, and Senator Ejaz Chaudhry - who were sentenced in case related to the widespread riots that took place on May 9, 2023. Islamabad, July 23 (IANS) Terming the latest ruling by Lahore Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) as "yet another chapter in the judiciary's series of controversial verdicts", the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Wednesday vowed to challenge the convictions of its senior leaders including Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed, and Senator Ejaz Chaudhry who were sentenced in case related to the widespread riots that took place on May 9, 2023. The announcement by the party founded by former Prime Minister Imran Khan came after an Lahore ATC on Tuesday sentenced PTI leaders to 10 years in prison in a case related to arson and vandalism during the May 9 protests. Pakistan's former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has been acquitted in the same case. While addressing a press conference in Islamabad along with other senior party leaders, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan criticised the court's verdict, terming it as "yet another chapter in the judiciary's series of controversial verdicts". He said the court's ruling had further eroded trust of people in the judiciary. "From the beginning, we demanded a fair trial and the opportunity to defend ourselves. All these convictions were handed down without meeting the requirements of due process," the ARY News quoted Khan as saying. PTI leader and senior lawyer Babar Awan announced that the PTI would move the Supreme Court against all the convictions. He said, "These verdicts are not based on justice but on political motivations, particularly triggering from the call given by PTI's founding chairman." Awan said those who have been sentenced were "prisoners of conscience punished for raising their voices against injustice." He emphasised that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and it cannot be equated with terrorism. He further asked, "Is it fair to label a former governor and a former foreign minister as terrorists?" He further said that PTI would approach higher courts against all ATC verdicts. During the same press conference, PTI leader Salman Akram Raja termed the situation as "a mockery of justice" and "an assault on democracy." He stated that people must take a decision now on whether "this oppressive system will continue, or whether a system based on justice and rule of law will prevail." Bhopal, July 23 : In a sweeping move aimed at enhancing road safety and easing traffic congestion, the Madhya Pradesh administration has imposed a ban on e-rickshaws across several key routes and functions in the state capital and other districts. The decision, which comes into effect this week, follows recommendations from the District Road Safety Committee and has stirred debate among commuters and transport operators. The most immediate impact is felt in Bhopal and Jabalpur, where e-rickshaws have been prohibited from ferrying schoolchildren. District Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh cited safety concerns, noting that many of these vehicles are operated by unlicensed or underage drivers and lack proper registration. "E-rickshaws are unsafe for transporting school children. Their safety is our top priority," Singh stated, warning that schools violating the directive will face strict action. Similarly Jabalpur collector has issued an order banning e-rickshaws to ferry school children in the district referring guidelines issued by High Court of Madhya Pradesh. The ban also extends to 12 major VVIP and high-traffic corridors in the city of Bhopal, including stretches from Raj Bhavan to Polytechnic Crossing, Hamidia Road, Link Road 1, and the GG Flyover. These routes were identified as congestion hotspots where e-rickshaws often disrupt traffic flow and pose risks due to their lightweight and unstable design. Authorities have launched an awareness campaign to educate drivers, schools, and parents about the new rules. For the first week, enforcement will focus on guidance rather than penalties, allowing time for alternative transport arrangements. However, violators may face fines and vehicle impoundment once the grace period ends. The crackdown is part of a broader initiative to regulate informal transport modes and improve urban mobility. With over 14,000 registered e-rickshaws in Bhopal alone -- many of which operate outside legal norms -- the administration aims to bring order to a sector that has grown rapidly but remains loosely governed. While some residents have welcomed the move as a step toward safer roads, others worry about the impact on last-mile connectivity and livelihoods of e-rickshaw drivers. Officials say operational guidelines are being drafted to ensure fair regulation and explore safer alternatives for school transport. As the ban rolls out, the city braces for a transition that could reshape its urban transport landscape. Kabul, July 23 : Describing their situation as "dire" and "disastrous", the Afghanistan Journalists Support Organisation on Wednesday said that Afghan journalists in Iran and Pakistan continue to face dire conditions, including threats, arrests and denial of basic services. Many of these journalists, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported, had left Afghanistan as they faced threats, persecution and censorship under Taliban rule. However, they are now facing serious risks to their safety and dignity in the host nations, including forced deportation, arbitrary arrest and lack of basic services. Many Afghan journalists are in legal limbo in Pakistan due to the suspension of visa renewals, making them vulnerable to potential police detention and deportation. Others have said that they face similar difficulties in Iran, where access to essential services is either denied or limited. The organisation called on international organisations to take urgent action. It requested United Nations, the European Union, Reporters Without Borders, and Western governments to expedite asylum processes and provide immediate support, the news agency reported. The group's warning comes amid crackdowns on Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Iran, with many journalists also facing dire economic conditions and lack of protection. They emphasised that global community's silence would only deteriorate the humanitarian crisis. The lives and freedoms of journalists continue to remain at risk without swift intervention. Earlier in May, The Committee to Protect Journalists, alongside PEN International and 13 partner organisations, urged Pakistan's government to immediately halt the arbitrary mass deportation of Afghan journalists and other nationals at risk of Taliban persecution. In the statement, the organisations expressed concern over Pakistanas 'Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan' that was announced on October 3, 2023. Local and international bodies, including the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Organization for Migration, have criticized the Pakistan government's plan and urged the government to uphold its international obligations and continue offering protection to at-risk Afghans. In the joint statement, the organisations urged the international community to provide safe and legal pathways for Afghan journalists, writers, artists, human rights defenders, and other vulnerable individuals seeking refuge from Taliban persecution due to their peaceful expression. Islamabad, July 23 : The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) on Wednesday accused Pakistani authorities of blocking roads leading to the Islamabad Press Club using buses, and barbed wires to confine Baloch families protesting against the illegal detention of BYC leaders and enforced disappearances as their sit-in entered eighth day. The BYC called on people, journalists and human rights defenders to stand in solidarity with the protesting families. While sharing pictures and videos of the sit-in on X, the BYC wrote, "On the eighth consecutive day, Pakistani authorities continue to block all roads leading to the Islamabad Press Club using buses, and barbed wires to confine Baloch families protesting against the illegal detention of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders and enforced disappearances." "These families, many of whom are elderly women, mothers, and children, have traveled from Balochistan seeking justice a" not isolation. Yet they are being trapped, hidden from public view, and denied their democratic right to protest. We demand that these repressive tactics end immediately and call on all conscious citizens, journalists, and human rights defenders to stand in solidarity with the protesting families," it added. On July 21, a Baloch human rights organisation slammed the Pakistani authorities for forcibly evicting Baloch protestors - including women, children and elderly members - from their flat after cutting off water supply and exposing them to extreme weather conditions in Islamabad. "Islamabad authorities have now forcibly evicted Baloch protestors from their flat after cutting off water and subjecting them to rain and heat. Pressuring landlords to displace peaceful demonstrators is cruel and unacceptable," said the Baloch Voice for Justice. Meanwhile, Nadia Baloch, sister of BYC Central Organiser Mahrang Baloch, criticised the Islamabad Police and state institutions, accusing them of mistreating Baloch women in a manner unimaginable even for immigrants anywhere in the world. "Islamabad police and state institutions are treating Baloch women in a manner that is not even meted out to immigrants anywhere in the world. For years, our people have been forcibly disappeared, and then their mutilated bodies are dumped in desolate places. Occupying Baloch resources, state control over our land, imposing artificial leadership on our politics, and imprisoning our true leadersa"despite doing all this, the State is still not satisfied. Now, we are apparently not even given the right to live in the capital of our own country, Islamabad," Nadia posted on X "Evicting Baloch children, mothers, and elders from their homes in the darkness of last night and leaving them on the streets is not just insensitivity but the worst form of state oppression, fascism, and racial discrimination. Islamabad police and state institutions should clearly state: Are Baloch equal citizens of this state or not? If we are not given the right to live, speak, or demand justice in Islamabad, then we too will have to think about what this state means to us," the post added. Nadia asserted that the Baloch community have always demanded their rights through peaceful protests while remaining within the constitutional framework. But if the State does not change its attitude, she stated, then the "Baloch mothers, sisters, and daughters will not remain silent either". "This country does not belong only to the powerful elites; it is ours too. If you do not consider us citizens of this country, then we will also speak the language you understand. And this path will not be easy for you either," Nadia emphasised. New Delhi, June 23 : The busting of an Al Qaeda terror module in Gujarat once again signals the ambitious plans the outfit has in India. Mohd Faiq, Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, and Zeeshan Ali were arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) for spreading the ideology of the outfit as well as running a fake currency racket to raise funds for the banned outfit that was once headed by Osama bin Laden. Preliminary investigations by the ATS suggest that the four had auto-deleted applications to clean any trace of their communications. The busting of this network is a major success for the agencies since the Al Qaeda in the Sub-Continent (AQIS) has its biggest ambitions in Gujarat. The busting of this module is also important in the context of the Indian agencies stating that the ISI is likely to use the AQIS to further its operations in India in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor which was carried out to avenge the Pahalgam attack. The AQIS, which was formed in 2014 under the leadership of Ayman Al Zawahiri, had focused its activities extensively on India. Its chief in the sub-continent was Asim Umar, a person of Indian origin. As part of his expansion plan, he had focused the outfitas activities largely on Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, and the northeastern states. The intentions of the AQIS for India were made clear when it declared that all Indian Muslims were obligated to launch a holy war against the "Bhagwa regime" in India for targeting mosques and settlements in Pakistan. This statement, which was released after Operation Sindoor, made it clear that the ISI wants this outfit to up its ante in India. Moreover, this statement came at a time when one thought that the AQIS was losing its sheen. In fact, the statement was a tactical one and was aimed at openly supporting Pakistan. At a time when Pakistan would need much more time to rebuild the facilities of the Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba, which were hit by the Indian armed forces, the AQIS could be used to fill in the gap. The assessment by the security agencies is that the AQIS is not as strong as it would claim to be, but in India, in terms of ideology, it has a far bigger reach when compared to the Islamic State, Jaish-e-Mohammad, or Lashkar-e-Taiba. There are many who still hero-worship Osama bin Laden, and this is one of the main reasons why the reach is much higher. Further, after Umar was killed, the AQIS has turned against India even more. It launched a magazine called "Nawa-Ghazwatul Hind (Voice of the Battle for India)". However, the plans of Al Qaeda for India are not new. It began when David Headley was in Pakistan before the planning for the Mumbai 26/11 attacks began. He had a meeting with Ilyas Kashmiri, the head of Al Qaedaas 313 Brigade, during which both planned terror strikes in Gujarat, Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh. While scouting targets for the Mumbai attack, Headley had even visited Delhi and Pune. Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the Mumbai 26/11 case who was recently extradited to India, had, prior to the attacks, visited Ahmedabad, Delhi, Kochi, Agra, Hapur, and Mumbai. The investigators suspect that he may have furthered his agenda at the behest of his handlers in Pakistan. Ranaas visits were against the backdrop of statements by Ilyas Kashmiri that he wanted recruits from Kerala, Gujarat and other parts of the country to carry out his ambitious Ghazwa-e-Hind project. While a module was busted in Gujarat on Wednesday, the Assam Police too had busted a terror module. It was found that these alleged members of Al Qaeda were in close contact with members of the Bangladeshi outfit, Ansarullah Bangla Team, to carry out acts of terror in the northeastern states. While the original plan of Al Qaeda was to focus on Afghanistan, it made a surprising turn in 2020 when it renamed its Urdu magazine "Nawa-i-Afghan Jihad" to "Nawaz-i-Ghazwa-e-Hind". As part of its expansion plans in India, it has managed to rope in several illegal Muslim immigrants from Bangladesh. This came to light when the NIA arrested 53 persons, including Bangladeshis, for being part of an AQIS module. To add to the problem is the failing law and order situation in Bangladesh. Almost all the terror groups in Bangladesh lean more towards Al Qaeda when compared to the Islamic State. The ISI may use this as an opportunity to ramp up terror activity with the help of the AQIS along the India-Bangladesh border. In Bangladesh, the ISI has been encouraging Al Qaeda to work closely with other terror groups such as the Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat-e-Islam, Hizb ut-Tahrir, and Ansarullah Bangla Team. What is worse is that the interim head of the caretaker government, Muhammad Yunus, had turned a complete blind eye, as a result of which all these groups have a free run in Bangladesh. Bengaluru, July 23 : Panic gripped Bengaluru's Kalasipalya bus stop after an unattended bag was found outside a public toilet on Wednesday. Acting on information about a suspicious bag, Bengaluru Police rushed to the spot and recovered gelatin sticks and detonators outside a public toilet at the overcrowded Kalasipalya bus stop. Confirming the incident, DCP (West) S. Girish said: "Six gelatin sticks and some detonators, both separately packed, were found in a carry bag outside the toilet located on the premises of the Kalasipalya Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus stand." The explosive materials were discovered around 2 p.m. They were kept in separate bags near the toilet. A case has been filed under Sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act, under Sections 6 (A), 9 (B) of the Explosives Act and also under Sections 61 (1)(a), 61 (1)(b) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. Assistant Traffic Superintendent Mallappa R Katiimani has filed a complaint in this regard. An unknown person and adult male are named as the accused person in the FIR. The FIR in this regard states, "The complainant works as the ATS at the Kalasipalya bus stop and has come to duty at 8 a.m. in the morning and inspected the Kalasipalya BMTC bus stop and found nothing at that time. Later, at 1.15 pm, security personnel Prabhvathi and Raju produced a bag saying that an unknown person had left it near the bus stand public toilet. He suspected the presence of the explosive substance and called the police. The police who arrived at the spot confirmed it." The complainant has stated that Kalasipalya bus stop is over overcrowded place and urged the police to track down the persons who had left the explosive substances to cause harm to lives and property and initiate legal action, the FIR stated. The jurisdictional Kalasipalya Police have launched a probe into the incident. DCP Girish personally visited the site and is monitoring the investigation. More details are awaited as the investigation is still in its early stages. Kalasipalya is a communally sensitive and densely populated area in Bengaluru, and the discovery has raised serious concerns among residents and security agencies. Last week, over 40 private schools in Bengaluru received bomb threat messages via email. The bomb threat shocked parents and created confusion in the vicinity of the schools. Schools in several areas, including Rajarajeshwari Nagar and Kengeri, in Bengaluru were threatened through an anonymous email message. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/zelenskyy.official The heads of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) have declared a significant limitation of the independence of the agencies they head as a result of the adoption of draft law No. 12414, but at the same time call on international partners to continue to comprehensively support Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression. "The legislative changes adopted the day before significantly limit the independence of NABU and SAPO. This was emphasized by the heads of both institutions during a meeting initiated by the Office of the President. From now on, NABU and SAPO are deprived of the guarantees that previously allowed them to effectively implement their tasks and functions in combating top corruption. To restore full-fledged and independent work, clear and unambiguous steps are needed at the level of the law that will return the guarantees canceled by the parliament," the statement following the meeting in the Presidents Office, published on the NABU Telegram channel on Wednesday, reads. At the same time, NABU and SAPO emphasize their commitment to the interests of the Ukrainian people and continue to work to preserve the professional capacity of both institutions and the results achieved over the years of their activities. The heads of the departments also note that the rule of law and compliance with the law remain unchanged values for them, and they "expect the same approach from other law enforcement agencies." "NABU and SAPO call on international partners to continue to comprehensively support Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression. The strength and resilience of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, the unity of Ukrainian society, and systematic international support are key factors in overcoming the aggressor and establishing the European future of our state," the statement says. As reported, on July 22, the Verkhovna Rada adopted by 263 votes in total the law "On Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine Regarding the Peculiarities of Pre-Trial Investigation of Criminal Offenses Related to the Disappearance of Missing Persons Under Special Circumstances During Martial Law" with amendments that limited the independence of NABU and SAPO. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, immediately signed the law and sent it to the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy for signature, while under normal practice this occurs after consideration of blocking resolutions submitted by opponents. On the same day, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed it. A number of politicians and public figures, as well as representatives of the European Commission, spoke out categorically against this draft law and called on Zelenskyy to veto it. Protest actions against the draft law adopted by the Verkhovna Rada were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Rivne on Tuesday evening. Patna, July 23 : In a significant escalation of the political standoff over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, Bihar Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav has hinted at the possibility of boycotting the upcoming Assembly elections in protest against a "deliberate" disenfranchisement of voters. Patna, July 23 (IANS) In a significant escalation of the political standoff over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, Bihar Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav has hinted at the possibility of boycotting the upcoming Assembly elections in protest against a "deliberate" disenfranchisement of voters. When asked by the media whether the opposition could consider boycotting elections by mutual consent, Tejashwi said: "This can also be discussed. We will see what the public wants and what everyone's opinion is." He further questioned the legitimacy of holding elections under the current circumstances. "When elections are not being conducted honestly, then why are we conducting elections? The elections have been compromised," Yadav said. Tejashwi Yadav alleged that under the guise of the voter list revision, the BJP and the Election Commission are working together to clean opposition voters rather than cleansing the democratic process. "The Election Commission revised the voter list in January this year, and it has also claimed that 18.66 lakh dead voters were found between 25 January and 24 June 2025. Did 18.66 lakh people die in these months? Why were they retained on the voter list for years? Was the Election Commission sleeping before this?" The claim that 26.01 lakh voters shifted permanently within four months is "doubtful," as such a mass shift is improbable without physical verification. The ECI's assertion that 3.7 lakh voters are registered at two places lacks transparency, with no clear process of personal notice or confirmation. The figure that 6.62 per cent of voters are absent from their address is being used to "solve electoral mathematics at the behest of the government." Tejashwi demanded to know how many among the 52.66 lakh voters whose names are to be deleted are actually foreign nationals. "Preparations are being made to delete lakhs of names without BLOs visiting doorsteps, especially targeting voters opposing the government," he said. Tejashwi claimed that this entire revision campaign is part of a well-planned conspiracy by the BJP, alleging attempts to disenfranchise weaker sections, minorities, Dalits, backwards, and opposition supporters to tilt the electoral balance in its favour. "Earlier, voters used to choose the government: now the government is choosing the voters," he said. Tejashwi concluded with a warning: "We will not let their arbitrariness continue in Bihar." New Delhi, July 23 : The government has issued orders banning 1,524 illegal gambling websites and mobile apps between 2022 and June 2025, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday. "From 2022 till June 2025, the government issued 1,524 blocking directions related to online betting, gambling and gaming websites and mobile applications," Minister of State for Electronics & IT Jitin Prasada told the Lok Sabha in a written reply to a question. This comes amid growing concern over offshore online gambling platforms that operate without complying with Indian tax rules or local regulations. The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has been authorised under the Information Technology (IT) Act and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) Act to direct intermediaries to block unregistered online gaming platforms, including foreign gaming platforms violating the IGST Act. Online gaming companies must register under the IGST Act to operate in India, even if they are based outside the country, and platforms that fail to comply are liable to be blocked. Online gaming attracts a GST of 28 per cent, the government said. "The policies of the Central government are aimed at ensuring an open, safe, trusted and accountable internet for its users," the minister said. These platforms, which the government has blocked, often use digital advertising on platforms like Google and Meta to reach Indian users, sometimes via surrogate advertising that masks their true nature. To bring certainty in the levy of income tax in the online gaming sector, the government, vide Finance Act, 2023, has introduced income tax at the rate of 30 per cent on the net winnings in the online games with effect from assessment year 2024-25. The minister also stated that the Centre supports states and Union Territories through advisories and financial assistance under various schemes for capacity building of their law enforcement agencies. "Betting and gambling" is a state subject under entry 34 of the List II (State List) of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, and state legislations define betting and gambling-related offences. Therefore, as per the provisions of Article 246 read with Article 162 of the Constitution, state legislatures have the power to legislate on matters related to betting and gambling. The Directorate General of GST Intelligence Headquarters is empowered as the appropriate government agency under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the IGST Act to direct intermediaries to block unregistered online money gaming platforms, including offshore online money gaming platforms, violating the IGST Act. Jaipur, July 23 : In a major crackdown on narcotics, Barmer Police and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Jodhpur jointly busted an illegal MD drug manufacturing factory in Dholakia village under Sedwa police station limits. The action was part of the special drive Operation Bhaukaal and has led to the seizure of narcotics and raw materials estimated to be capable of producing drugs worth Rs 100 crore. Barmer SP Narendra Singh Meena informed that the joint operation led to the seizure of 39.25 kg of MD/NDPS mixed liquid, 290.84 kg of various chemical liquids (including chloroform, ammonia chloride, acid, toluene, bromine, HCL, and carbon), 5.33 kg of white powder, an electric fork, a generator, and two recipe sheets for manufacturing drugs. The estimated value of seized material stands at Rs 40 lakh, from which MD drugs worth Rs 100 crore could have been manufactured. SP Meena said that acting on a tip-off about an illegal drug manufacturing unit in Dholakia (Kartiya), teams led by Circle Officer Chohtan Jeevanlal and SHO Sedwa Deep Singh raided the premises. The illegal lab was found inside a shed on the farm of Mangilal Bishnoi. As the police arrived, three suspects tried to flee. Two were apprehended on the spot, including Mangilal Bishnoi (21), resident of Dholakia Kartiya and Birju Jayendra Shukla (45), resident of Mumbai, Maharashtra. The third accused, Ganpat Singh Rawana Rajput, managed to escape. Interrogation revealed that the factory was set up by Ramesh alias Anil Bishnoi, Kamlesh alias Kartik Bishnoi, Kamlesh Godara and Ganpat Singh Rawana Rajput. Mangilal was promised Rs 10 lakh for providing the premises - Rs 5 lakh had already been paid in cash. Equipment was procured from Narmada Glass Company, while chemicals and acids were sourced from Rohan Company, Mumbai. A total of 10 accused have been named, many with prior records. Police officials said that the main accused has 17 criminal cases against them, which include theft, robbery, assault, attempted murder, kidnapping, and drug smuggling. The official said that the accused carried a reward of Rs 1 lakh and is listed in the top-10 criminals at the range and district level. Other Individuals linked to the operation include Shiva Bhai (Odisha), a specialist in MD drug formulation, Narmata Madam (Thane, Maharashtra), who supplied lab equipment and Machhindra Bhosale (Mahad Akola, Maharashtra), who ordered chemicals for drug production. This operation has exposed a highly organised drug manufacturing and distribution network with interstate connections. The seized materials, equipment, and accused point to a well-planned criminal nexus engaged in large-scale narcotics production and distribution. Further investigations are underway to apprehend the absconding accused and uncover the full extent of the network, said officials. Hyderabad, July 23 : Hyderabad Police have apprehended nine drug offenders and seized cocaine and ecstasy pills from their possession. Hyderabad Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) made the arrests in three separate cases. While six persons have been arrested for peddling cocaine, three others have been apprehended for dealing in Meow-Meow (MD) drug. The police seized a country-made pistol along with six live rounds, 286 grams of cocaine, 11 Ecstasy pills and 12 mobile phones, all worth Rs 85 lakh. Hyderabad Police Commissioner C. V. Anand told media persons that two inter-state drug transporters and a local peddler were arrested with 100 grams Meow-Meow (MD) drug, one country-made pistol, six live rounds, and empty bullet shells. Three mobile phones were also seized from them. The inter-state drug transporters have been identified as Pawan Bhati alias Raja and Hemsingh Kachhawa alias Hemu, both residents of Rajasthan. Jeetendara Panwar, also from Rajasthan but residing in Hyderabad, is the local peddler. In another operation, H-NEW, along with Golconda Police, arrested four inter-state drug peddlers, one local peddler and consumers and seized 276 grams cocaine, eight mobile phones, all worth Rs 69 lakh. Inter-state drug peddlers Mujaffar Wahid Shaikh, Vinod Kishanlal Shrivasthav, Chaitanya Vinayak Wagh and Mustak Khan are all from Maharashtra. Prem, a software employee in Hyderabad, was helping them in selling drugs to customers. The consumers have been identified as Ravi Kumar Varma and Sachin, both businessmen. In a joint operation with Bollarum Police, H-NEW arrested a cocaine peddler and seized 10 grams cocaine, 11 ecstasy pills weighing six grams and one mobile phone, all worth Rs 3.10 lakh. The accused is identified as Harshavardhan, a software employee in Hyderabad. According to police, Harshvardhan, who studied B.Tech and secured a software job in a reputed software company, started consuming drugs with friends after failure in love. Later, he became a peddler. He was procuring cocaine from Bangalore and selling it to needy customers in Hyderabad. The Police Commissioner also stated that the process to deport two foreign nationals involved in drug trafficking has also been initiated. Anand said the process has been initiated to prevent them from indulging in undesirable activities detrimental to national security. The Nigerians have been identified as Aful Clement alias Aful David, aged 29 and Lazarus Chinwenmeri Favour, aged 19. The investigations revealed that Aful Clement came to India on a business visa. In 2022, he was arrested by police in Chandigarh in a cheating case. This month, he came to Bangalore to supply drugs along with his friend Lazarus Chinwenmeri Favour, who came to India on a student visa. They came to Hyderabad and were moving under Tolichowki Police Station limits in a suspicious manner when they were apprehended. Dhaka, July 23 : Leaders of 13 political parties and alliances have called on Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to immediately announce the date for the national election. The leaders raised the demand during the meeting held at the state guest house Jamuna on Wednesday, where party representatives demanded ensuring equal opportunities for all political parties by ending what they described as the government's "biased behaviour," Bangladesh-based The Business Standard reported. The representatives of political parties emphasised that a free and fair poll would not be possible until the government maintained neutrality. Leaders who were present during the meeting included Nurul Haque Nur of Gono Odhikar Parishad; Redwan Ahmed of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP); Syed Hasibuddin Hossain of Rashtro Sangskar Andolon; Zonayed Saki of Ganosanghati Andolon; Mujibur Rahman Monju of the AB Party; Shahidullah Kayser of Nagorik Oikya; Ahmad Abdul Kader of Khelafat Majlish; and Saiful Haque of the Biplobi Workers Party. Other leaders who were part of the meeting included Shahadat Hossain Selim of the 12-Party Alliance; Ruhin Hossain Prince of the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB); Tania Rob of Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD); Bazlur Rashid Firoz of the Socialist Party of Bangladesh; and Mizanur Rahman of Gono Forum. While addressing a press conference after the meeting, the leaders accused the interim government of showing "undue favour to the National Citizen Party (NCP)", which they claimed was causing political inequality and deepening divisions. Gono Odhikar Parishad president Nurul Haque Nur said that the government is openly backing the NCP, calling it disrespectful to all other political parties. He further said, "If such bias continues, it will not be possible to hold a free and fair election under this government." CPB General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince said, "The government only calls on political parties when it finds itself in trouble. The NCP hasn't even been officially registered yet, but it's already receiving state protocol. This is a glaring example of discrimination." Socialist Party of Bangladesh general secretary Bazlur Rashid Firoz and Ganasamhati Andolan Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki also expressed the same concerns regarding the alleged bias of the Yunus-led interim government. Saki stressed that it is the government's responsibility to conduct judicial and electoral reforms. He stated that the announcement of the election date will bring a sense of relief among the public. Jaipur, July 24 : In a major decision benefiting farmers across Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has approved a revised policy for land compensation related to the Right of Way (ROW) in the construction of new high-capacity electricity transmission lines of 400 kV or more. The move, seen as a sensitive and long-awaited response to farmers' demands, ensures enhanced compensation for land utilised for transmission towers and ROW corridors. The revised policy aims to provide fair remuneration for the land impacted during the laying of high-voltage power lines. The existing compensation framework, in effect since November 8, 2024, for 132 kV and above transmission lines, has now been partially amended for transmission lines of 400 kV and higher voltage. Energy Minister Hiralal Nagar stated that the new policy will benefit farmers on a large scale by compensating for the losses incurred due to the installation of these high-voltage transmission lines across agricultural lands. He also emphasised that the policy will help expedite the construction of essential infrastructure, ultimately improving the quality and reach of electricity supply for consumers across Rajasthan. Under the revised policy, farmers will now receive 200 per cent additional compensation - over and above the already applicable 200 per cent of the land value as per DLC rates - for the base area of transmission towers. The base area is defined as the area enclosed by all four legs of a towe,r along with an additional one-meter extension on each side. Furthermore, compensation for the ROW corridor will now be provided at 30 per cent of the land value in rural areas, 45 per cent in Nagar Palika and other urban planning regions, and 60 per cent in areas falling under Municipal Corporations and Metropolitan jurisdictions. The Right of Way refers to the designated strip of land required for the construction, maintenance, and operation of transmission lines. This often involves the removal of trees, structures, or any obstructions within the corridor to ensure safety and reliability in power distribution. The revised policy will be applicable to all implementing agencies, including state transmission licensees, Power Grid Corporation of India, and private companies involved in laying 400 kV and higher capacity transmission lines. It will cover both intra-state and inter-state projects. The decision is seen as a crucial step toward balancing infrastructure development with the rights and welfare of farmers, ensuring they receive their fair share in Rajasthanas expanding power sector. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Bhubaneswar, July 23 : The condition of the 16-year-old girl who was set on fire by unknown assailants in the Balanga area of Puri district on July 19, and was later airlifted to AIIMS, Delhi the next day for better treatment, still remains critical. A press note issued by AIIMS, New Delhi on Wednesday, the victim minor continues to be under oxygen support read: aThe patient, a 16-year-old girl who sustained 75 per cent burns on 19th July 2025, was airlifted from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and received at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, AIIMS New Delhi, on 20th July 2025. On day 5, she underwent surgery for management of deep burns. She is currently on oxygen support and remains in a critical condition." It further noted that a dedicated team of doctors of the AIIMS, New Delhi is closely monitoring the progress of the victimas health condition. Notably, the minor girl was attacked near a river embankment near her village under Balanga police limits, where miscreants allegedly poured petrol and kerosene on her and set her on fire. Miraculously, she managed to find refuge at a nearby house, from where villagers rushed her to the Pipili Community Health Centre. She was later referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries. The heinous crime has prompted swift police action. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed, led by Balanga IIC Shri Dibya Ranjan Panda. The Police initiated a probe into the matter by registering a case (162/2025) under sections 127(2), 109, 123, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. However, the Odisha Police are still groping in the dark, as the assailants who tried to kill the minor victim by setting her ablaze are still at large, even after the lapse of five days to the incident. The police also failed to ascertain the reason which prompted the assailants to perpetrate the gruesome assault on the 16-year-old victim. Bengaluru, July 23 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court in Bengaluru on Wednesday sentenced three accused persons in connection with the 2020 DJ Halli-KG Halli riot case to seven years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 20,000 on each. The convicted individuals are 44-year-old Syed Ikramuddin alias Syed Naveed, a resident of Kushalnagar in K.G. Halli; 46-year-old Syed Asif, a resident of Bharat Mata Layout; and 26-year-old Mohammad Atif, a resident of Basava Nagar. Syed Ikramuddin was the 14th accused, Syed Asif the 16th, and Mohammad Atif the 18th in the chargesheet. They were convicted of criminal conspiracy for their involvement in setting fire to the KG Halli police station during the riots. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency, which later filed a detailed chargesheet. The accused were presented before the court through video conference. Special Public Prosecutor for the NIA, P. Prasanna Kumar, stated: "The police are tasked with maintaining law and order as well as public order. When such custodians are attacked, public confidence in the efficiency of the police is likely to be shaken, thereby disturbing public order." "We, the people, feel secure when we have a robust police force. By torching the KG Halli Police Station, the accused shook the public's confidence and sense of security," he added. He further said the judgment not only restores public confidence in the police force but also vindicates the central government's action in declaring the Popular Front of India (PFI) an unlawful association. It can be recalled that the incident occurred on August 11, 2020. A group of 25 to 30 individuals had gathered in front of the KG Halli Police Station, shouting slogans and demanding the arrest of Naveen, the nephew of former MLA Akhanda Srinivasa Murthy, for allegedly posting a derogatory message insulting Prophet Mohammad. Led by Syed Ikramuddin and others, the mob entered the KG Halli Police Station demanding the registration of a case against Naveen. The gathering at the station grew steadily and turned violent, especially in the wake of the already escalating violence in the neighbouring DJ Halli Police Station area. Despite the curfew, the unlawfully assembled mob became unruly and intensified their protest by shouting slogans and engaging in violent activities. They began pelting stones at the KG Halli Police Station and attacked police personnel as well as members of the public who were helping to pacify the crowd. The mob used stones, iron rods, wooden sticks, improvised petrol bombs, and other weapons. The violence escalated as the mob vandalised and set fire to government and private vehicles parked near the police station. They also demanded that Naveen be handed over to them, threatening to kill him. Armed with weapons and bottles filled with petrol, the mob stormed the police station premises and continued their attack on police personnel and others present. The situation turned terrifying as the mob created a climate of fear and chaos. The police responded with a lathi charge and fired tear gas to disperse the unruly crowd and bring the situation under control. However, the mob grew even more aggressive, attacking police personnel and setting fire to both public and private properties on a large scale, resulting in injuries to several officers. Subsequently, the police opened fire with official weapons. One individual from the mob sustained injuries during the firing and later died at the hospital. Following this, the mob gradually dispersed from the KG Halli Police Station area. During the incident, the rioters damaged a total of 12 vehicles, including government and private vehicles. Of these, five two-wheelers and one Innova car were completely burnt, while six other vehicles were damaged. The police named 199 persons as accused in the FIR. Of them, 187 were arrested, four surrendered, and one accused died. The police later submitted a chargesheet against 138 individuals. Kolkata, July 23 : In a joint operation with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), the Border Security Force (BSF) arrested a woman from the Ranaghat railway station, in the Nadia district of West Bengal, with smuggled gold valued at over Rs 57 lakh. The operation was carried out on July 22 close to the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). "On Tuesday, the BSF received an alert that a woman is transporting a consignment of smuggled gold by train. We immediately tracked the woman to Ranaghat and informed the RPF. In the joint operation that followed around 12.55 pm, the woman was caught with five gold biscuits weighing 583 grams. The market value of the seized gold is Rs 57,68,785," N K Pandey, DIG and spokesperson, South Bengal Frontier, BSF, said. The RPF identified the woman based on information provided by the BSF and apprehended her. She was taken to the RPF office, where a search by female constables led to the recovery of the gold. "During a joint interrogation by the BSF and RPF, the woman confessed that she received a call from a man at 10.30 am that day, instructing her to deliver the consignment. She was promised Rs 1,000 for the job. She boarded the train at Harishnagar Halt, where the gold biscuits were handed over to her. She was directed to deliver it to a person at the Simurali station, about 60 km from Kolkata," the DIG said. The gold consignment was on its way to Kolkata, officials suspect. The gold biscuits have been handed over to the concerned department for further legal processing. "The BSF not only guards the border, it also acts against cross-border criminal activity, such as infiltration, smuggling and human trafficking. Our troops carry out their duties effectively after overcoming all challenges. I appeal to those living along the border to provide information about gold smuggling to us," Pandey said, The BSF maintains a "Seema Saathi" helpline number 14419, where any information can be given. People can also send text or voice messages to the WhatsApp number 9903472227. Those who provide credible inputs are suitably rewarded and their identities are kept confidential. New Delhi/London, July 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday evening for his two-day visit to the United Kingdom (UK), marking a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at bolstering strategic partnerships and regional cooperation. PM Modi's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23a"24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," PM Modi said on social media platform X. "During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," the Ministry of External Affairs said in its press statement. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. Under negotiation for three years, the FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods. It is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030 from the current $60 billion and boost British exports such as whisky and cars to India. PM Modi is likely to raise concerns about Khalistani extremists in the UK. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK." The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries. PM Modi and his UK counterpart Starmer have already met twice -- in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 -- and held multiple phone conversations. The Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Turkey and started its first bilateral meetings with the Turkish side in Ankara, a source in the Ukrainian delegation told Interfax-Ukraine. The Ukrainian and Russian delegations will meet in Istanbul later on Wednesday evening. The Ukrainian and Russian delegations will meet in Istanbul later on Wednesday evening. The agency's interlocutor stressed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has identified three items on the agenda of the Ukrainian negotiations: further exchange of prisoners of war, return of Ukrainian children and a meeting of leaders. "The latter is the most important, since such a meeting could lead to a breakthrough in peace efforts and truly put an end to the killings," the source noted. According to the source, the Ukrainian delegation has arrived in Turkey. It is ready to take significant steps towards peace and a complete ceasefire, but everything will depend on whether the Russian side is ready for a constructive approach. New Delhi/London, July 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London on Wednesday evening for his two-day visit to the United Kingdom (UK), and said that a "strong friendship between the two countries is essential for global progress". "Landed in London. This visit will go a long way in advancing the economic partnership between our nations. The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress," PM Modi said on social media platform X. "Scripting a new beginning in the India-Great Britain Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. PM @narendramodi lands in London, on an official visit to the UK. Bilateral talks with PM @Keir_Starmer & meeting with His Majesty King Charles III @RoyalFamily lie ahead," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said on X. The Prime Minister's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23a"24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," PM Modi said on X as he emplaned for the UK. "During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," the Ministry of External Affairs said in its press statement. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. Under negotiation for three years, the FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90 per cent of British goods. It is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030 from the current $60 billion and boost British exports such as whisky and cars to India. PM Modi is likely to raise concerns about Khalistani extremists in the UK. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK." The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries. PM Modi and his UK counterpart Starmer have already met twice -- in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 -- and held multiple phone conversations. London, July 24 : The Indian community in London welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with chants of 'Modi, Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' as he arrived in UK on Wednesday evening for a historic two-day visit that centres around the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and refresh of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Members of the Indian diaspora carried several posters welcoming PM Modi with chants of 'Modi, Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' and danced in traditional outfits as Prime Minister Modi arrived at the hotel in London. Earlier, artists dressed in traditional outfits played dhol ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in London. Speaking with enthusiasm and excitement on meeting PM Modi, a member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "We are so proud, and I am still in tears. You can see that my eyes are still filled with the happiness and joy he (PM Modi) brought while shaking our hands." Another member of the Indian diaspora while speaking to IANS said, "I felt extremely happy meeting PM Modi for the first time and my entire day felt worthwhile. The initiatives PM Modi has taken for India such as digitisation, the recent success of Operation Sindoor etc. The whole credit for such initiatives goes to PM Modi and his Cabinet. The energy PM Modi carries wherever he goes people are crazy to meet him. I feel extremely proud whenever I return back home." An Indian community member told IANS: "The aura I witnessed was simply amazing. I never expected him to have such a powerful presence as he (PM Modi) looked like a saint to me. That is why people like PM Modi a lot. Another member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "It felt really great, just like every time PM Modi comes, he always does something good here. He strengthens the UK-India bond and brings positivity. I have great hope this time as well as PM Modi will achieve something great for India." Another Indian diaspora member said, "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is an amazing person, and I am so glad I met him today. I feel so inspired from PM Modi." The Prime Minister's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23a"24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," PM Modi said on X as he emplaned for the UK. "During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," the Ministry of External Affairs said in its press statement. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries. PM Modi and his UK counterpart Starmer have already met twice -- in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 -- and held multiple phone conversations. London, July 24 : The Indian community in London welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a grand reception as he arrived in UK on Wednesday evening for a historic two-day visit that centres around the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and refresh of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Members of the Indian diaspora carried several posters welcoming PM Modi with chants of 'Modi, Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' and danced in traditional outfits as Prime Minister Modi arrived at his hotel in London. "Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion towards Indiaas progress is truly heartening," PM Modi wrote on social media platform X. Earlier, artists dressed in traditional outfits played dhol ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in London. Speaking with enthusiasm and excitement on meeting PM Modi, a member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "We are so proud, and I am still in tears. You can see that my eyes are still filled with the happiness and joy he (PM Modi) brought while shaking our hands." Another member of the Indian diaspora while speaking to IANS said, "I felt extremely happy meeting PM Modi for the first time and my entire day felt worthwhile. The initiatives PM Modi has taken for India such as digitisation, the recent success of Operation Sindoor etc. The whole credit for such initiatives goes to PM Modi and his Cabinet. The energy PM Modi carries wherever he goes people are crazy to meet him. I feel extremely proud whenever I return back home." An Indian community member told IANS: "The aura I witnessed was simply amazing. I never expected him to have such a powerful presence as he (PM Modi) looked like a saint to me. That is why people like PM Modi a lot. Another member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "It felt really great, just like every time PM Modi comes, he always does something good here. He strengthens the UK-India bond and brings positivity. I have great hope this time as well as PM Modi will achieve something great for India." Another Indian diaspora member said, "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is an amazing person, and I am so glad I met him today. I feel so inspired from PM Modi." The Prime Minister's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23a"24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," PM Modi said on X as he emplaned for the UK. "During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties," the Ministry of External Affairs said in its press statement. The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit builds on frequent high-level engagement between the two countries. PM Modi and his UK counterpart Starmer have already met twice -- in Brazil during the G20 Summit and again at the G7 in June 2025 -- and held multiple phone conversations. RAWA NEWS, July 22, 2025 In a renewed and intensified assault on women's freedoms, the Taliban has launched a wave of arbitrary arrests across Afghanistan, targeting women and girls accused of violating the groups extreme interpretation of hijab rules. Over the past week alone, dozens of women have been detained in Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-e-Sharif, under vague and ever-changing standards of modesty, with no due process or legal justification. These arrests are taking place in public spaces streets, shopping malls, cafes, and university campuses where women are simply trying to go about their daily lives. In Kabul, several women were picked up by Taliban forces from the Shahr-e Naw, Dasht-e-Barchi, and Qala-e-Fataullah areas. Witnesses reported that Taliban agents stopped women in marketplaces, detained them for so-called bad hijab, and, in some cases, physically assaulted them before forcing them into vehicles. They were held in so-called morality centers and only released after their male guardians signed written guarantees to correct their behavior. In Herat, at least 26 women were arrested in recent days, many of them young and some reportedly underage. Taliban officials confirmed the detentions, claiming the women had been warned previously, and justifying the arrests with threats of escalating punishment. These women were taken to facilities run by the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice a feared institution that now acts as a religious police force. Mazar-e-Sharif saw similar scenes when Taliban agents stormed a shopping center and arrested around ten women, accusing them of not covering their faces fully. Those arrested were reportedly held without access to legal representation, family contact, or medical care. Local reports suggest that some families are now too afraid to let their daughters leave home, fearing they could be next. The United Nations and human rights watchdogs have condemned these arrests, describing them as serious violations of international law and a clear sign of Afghanistans descent into gender apartheid. However, the Taliban shows no signs of backing down. Instead, officials from the Ministry have doubled down on their threats, announcing that any woman found to be wearing a bad hijab will be punished immediately, without prior warning. These acts are not about religion they are about domination. The Taliban is using hijab enforcement as a political weapon to silence and erase women. By criminalizing ordinary clothing choices, they are sending a chilling message: women do not belong in public, and any attempt to assert their presence will be met with force. This is a continuation of the Taliban's systematic dismantling of women's rights, which includes bans on girls education beyond sixth grade, prohibitions on women working with NGOs and international organizations, and harsh restrictions on mobility and appearance. Despite the growing repression, many Afghan women are resisting refusing to disappear, documenting abuses, and speaking out even at great personal risk. But their voices are being met with indifference from much of the international community. The time for symbolic condemnation has passed. The Talibans actions amount to a sustained campaign of gender-based persecution, and they must be treated as such. Without concrete international pressure, the regime will continue its war on women unchecked, emboldened by the silence of a world that once promised to stand with the Afghan people. President Donald Trump has a major opportunity in Sudan to win a key security objective, a humanitarian victory, and some bonus points with Congress in one fell swoop. By helping end Sudans civil war, the President can advance his security objectives in the Red Sea and bring relief to millions of suffering Sudanesea move that would further strengthen his claim for a Nobel Peace Prize. The conflict is the worlds largest humanitarian and refugee crisis, with more than half of Sudans 50 million citizens in need of humanitarian aid and 12 million displaced. The war has also created opportunities for Iran and Russia to expand their influence in the strategically vital Red Sea, where they aim to make use of Sudans more than 500 miles of coastline. Trump has recognized what is at stake in Sudan and signaled his interest in restarting abandoned U.S.-led peace talks. Trumps team has experience navigating turbulent conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Syriaexperience that they should draw on to inform their approach to Sudan. What this looks like in practice is a combination of negotiations with the external actors fueling the conflict and conditional engagement with local factions. In the DRC, the U.S. has engaged with the DRC and Rwanda as the first step of a broader peace process. Successful U.S. diplomacy between the two countries has, for now, limited fighting in their conflict-stricken border area. With external support limited, U.S. partners, including Qatar and the African Union, are leading efforts to engage Congolese stakeholders in a more comprehensive peace process. U.S.-hosted talks with Emirati, Egyptian, and Saudi leaders is a strong first step to similarly engage the key actors fueling conflict in Sudan. The United Arab Emirates is the main backer of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which are fighting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The SAF is supported by countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. U.S. officials should, and have ample leverage to, strike a deal that leads these partners to cut support to the warring factions. The UAE is a major U.S. defense partner, and the U.S. also has strong relationships with the countries backing the SAF. Stemming external support would help limit violence and push the warring sides toward more comprehensive negotiations involving a variety of Sudanese stakeholders, which U.S. partners can help lead. The Trump administration should also use its conditional engagement with Syrias new leaders as a model for engagement with the Sudanese factions, namely the SAF. Neither the RSF nor the SAF are ideal partners. Both have committed war crimes and are undemocratic. The SAF also has substantial ties to hardline Islamist factions, Iran, and Russia. However, inaction or blanket targeting both sides will only continue to prolong human suffering in the country and allow these challenges to fester. Despite its many flaws, the United States should engage with the SAF, given that it is a more widely recognized in Sudan and abroad as legitimate and capable institution in Sudan than the genocidal militias that compose the RSF. In Syria, the Trump administration has cautiously engaged with the countrys new leaders, given their former ties with al Qaeda. Despite these challenges, the administration realized it would have been a mistake not to engage at all, as this would only cede space for extremists, Iran, and Russia to rebuild their influence. The administration has instead smartly conditioned American engagement on Syrias new leaders working to normalize ties with Israel, cutting its ties with foreign fighters, and working with the United States to contain ISIS. The results have been more successful than what giving Syria the cold shoulder would have yielded. The United States should use this conditional engagement model with the SAF. The SAF would benefit greatly from U.S. diplomatic support, and U.S. investment could help rebuild the country. The United States and its regional partners have a shared interest in ensuring there is no hardline Islamist return in Sudan. An Islamist takeover could revive Sudans status as an extremist incubator for al Qaeda, IS, and the Muslim Brotherhood. It could also further revive the previous regimes partnerships with Iran and Russia and prompt the nation to withdraw from the Abraham Accordsall of which would undermine U.S. interests. The current Islamist-SAF partnership seems to be more opportunistic than ideological, and de-escalating the war could help sideline Islamist factions. Looking further down the line, the United States should help Sudan lay the groundwork for a gradual transition to civilian rule. A quick transition is unrealistic for many reasons, including the fact that Sudans civilian coalition is severely fragmented. However, bringing the SAF and Sudans strong civil society together is key to long-term peace and prosperity. President Trump has framed himself as a peacemaker, and he has a prime opportunity to strengthen his legacy in Sudan. Peace in Sudan will not come easily and will necessarily involve engaging actors that have inflicted unspeakable harm on the Sudanese people. The U.S. should weigh these choices in the context of pursuing peace, which would be a respite that allows aid to reach millions of suffering Sudanese. Eventually, justice for the evils done during this civil war will be critical to prevent future conflict. But, for now, Trumps straightforward approach could be what is needed to make the first steps toward ending the suffering and setting the stage for peace. Liam Karr is the Africa team lead for the Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute. Prince Caspian, Westworld and The Punisher alum Ben Barnes says Tim, the character he plays in the new supernatural drama, The Institute, is a troubled man seeking redemption by relocating to a small town in Maine and taking a job as a night watchman. ADVERTISEMENT "We meet him at quite a heavy moment in his life. He's looking to kind of press re-start on his life. He used to be a police officer and he's made some decisions which weigh really heavily on him and he feels very shameful about," Barnes, 43, told UPI in a recent Zoom interview. "He's lost a lot, including a marriage, because of it and I think he's trying to find some peace in his life, and finds himself near this Institute, and something starts to not add up for him about this new community that he finds himself In and, so, he starts snooping and uncovering things and realizing, eventually, the full horror of what's happening." Based on the book by Stephen King, new episodes of the MGM+ show air Sundays and follow Luke (Freeman), a teen genius, who is kidnapped and awakens at The Institute, a facility full of children who all got there the same way he did, possess unusual abilities and are told they are needed to save the world. "Luke is sort of at a crossroads," said newcomer Freeman, the 19-year-old son of British acting royalty Martin Freeman and Amanda Abbington. "He has MIT calling and a future ahead of him, but, also, he has everybody back in Minneapolis and he doesn't want to let anybody down," Freeman said of Luke. "So, I think he's sort of living his best life as a 14-year-old. He's got a brilliant opportunity ahead of him and, I'm sure, in his head, he's thinking it will work itself out." While they find themselves navigating unusual circumstances, Tim and Luke seem authentic, three-dimensional and easy for viewers to relate to. "It is probably easier for Tim at the beginning because he's grounded in very real things. It's sort of a quiet beginning for Tim," Barnes said. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! "For Joe, to play a character who is sort of snatched up into such a horrific environment, to be so unsettled so fast into the show [is more challenging]," Barnes added. "But I think you're always going to be rooting for the person who's being treated in an unjust way and rooting for the person who's trying to help that person and support that person, so I think we were helped by the structure of the story in that way." Barnes went on to say the fact both characters have firm grips on their moral compasses also make them likable. "They know which way True North is and they know what's right to stand up for and those are the things that they kind of really have in common," Barnes added. "They can't help but stand up for the things they think are right and I think once you start to sense that in someone, when you're watching a show, you can't help but be on their side." King is famous for telling stories that are not just entertaining or disturbing, but that also explore important existential issues. The Institute, for example, takes a deep dive into concepts such as free will, authoritarianism and sacrifices required for a greater good. "There are lots of scenes where there are questions being asked that are not being answered and I think Stephen King is such a master of allegory -- like using telepathy to signify communication or telekinesis to signify those sort of hidden powers that we all have, even the most vulnerable of us, to kind of be hopeful and to fight against unchecked systems," Barnes said. Barnes, who has been professionally acting for more than 20 years, was ready to help Freeman if he needed anything, much the way Tim wanted to be there for Luke. "He's just born to do this," Barnes praised his co-star. "But [I wanted us] to be able to work through things together and discuss dynamics of the story or if he ever felt uncomfortable about situations, or committing to moments or whatever it might be," Barnes added. "We became a good source of support for each other, through the course of filming, being the two Brits out there [in Nova Scotia], away from home for those months filming the show together." The show co-stars Mary-Louise Parker, Robert Joy, Julian Richings and Martin Roach. Callum Vinson has signed on to play Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th prequel, Crystal Lake. ADVERTISEMENT The Hollywood Reporter announced the casting of 10-year-old Callum in the pivotal role for the Peacock series on Friday. The child actor is known for his roles in Poker Face, Coup! Long Bright River and Night Agent. Other additions to the Crystal Lake cast, which will be led by the previously announced Linda Cardellini, include Nick Cordileone, Joy Suprano, Danielle Kotch and Phoenix Parnevik. "Jason. Ralph. Rita. Claudette. Barry. This team slays," show-runner Brad Kane wrote alongside a screenshot of the news report. Friday the 13th, which was about a killer terrorizing camp counselors, opened in 1980 and spawned numerous sequels, remakes, comic books and video games. Celebrities are mourning the loss of Cosby Show icon Malcolm-Jamal Warner ADVERTISEMENT Warner, best known for playing Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, died Sunday while vacationing with his family in Costa Rica. He was 54. Tracee Ellis Ross, who starred with Warner on Read Between the Lines, shared a tribute to her "first TV husband" on Instagram Monday. "I love you, Malcom. First I met you as Theo with the rest of the world, then you were my first TV husband. My heart is so, so sad. What an actor and friend you were: warm, gentle, present, kind, thoughtful, deep, funny, elegant," she said. "You made the world a brighter place," she continued. "Sending so much love to your family. I'm so sorry for this unimaginable loss." Courtney B. Vance , who starred with Warner in The Tuskegee Airmen, also offered his condolences on Instagram. "Rest in eternal peace, my good brother," he said. "We will always remember you! To Malcolm's mother, wife and family -- you have our deepest condolences." Angela Bassett, who starred with Warner in American Horror Story: Freak Show and 9-1-1, described her former co-star as a "special soul." FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! "When a special soul like Malcolm Jamal-Warner leaves us far too soon, words fail to adequately describe the unimaginable grief," she said on Instagram. "Malcolm was more than a gifted actor. He was a longtime friend. When I met him, he was a star on the show that was TV royalty -- The Cosby Show. He warmly embraced me as a working actor who was trying to find my way." "Even in his youth, Malcolm's empathy, quiet strength and his bright light surrounded us all. Then to have the opportunity to work with him again last year on 9-11 was a memorable full-circle moment for us both," she continued. "In this life, Malcolm is what's known as a soulful artist whose deep commitment to his craft left an impression on me that has never faded. He carried the weight of cultural legacy with grace, and he always made space for others to shine." Yvette Nicole Brown, who worked with Warner when he guest starred on Community, said she is devastated by the actor's death. "I don't have the words right now so I am repurposing these beautiful ones from my dear friend, who I adored," she said. "This video is a glimpse of the love he would share just randomly. To have him as a friend was a blessing from God. He was one of one." The video shows the late actor talking about becoming the reason for someone else to smile. Sherri Shepherd, who co-starred with Warner on her series Sherri, wrote about what it was like to work with him. "He brought much laughter and gravitas playing my husband on my self-titled sitcom," she said. "He also made two appearances on my talk show Sherri, most recently in April to promote his series Alert: Missing Persons Unit. As someone who grew up on TV, Malcolm remained one of the most grounded people I've ever met in our business." "To know Malcolm was to know a renaissance man that possessed humor, grace, humility and deep cultural appreciation," she continued. Cosby Show co-creator and star Bill Cosby, who has been accused of sexual assault by dozens of women, said in a statement through his rep that news of Warner's death was as devastating to him as learning of the 1997 murder of his son Ennis Cosby. Photo: https://t.me/SBUkr/ Military counterintelligence of the State Security Service (SBU) has prevented the escape from Ukraine of a Russian agent who was preparing a series of terrorist attacks in the Dnipropetrovsk region, the press service of the agency reported. "The attacker was detained at the central station in Kyiv, from where he first tried to leave for the European Union, and then get to Russia. The suspect turned out to be a 63-year-old former militiaman from Donetsk recruited by the Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia, who moved to the Dnipropetrovsk region before the start of the full-scale war," the SBU said on Telegram on Wednesday. It is reported that, on the instructions of Russian special services, he prepared four caches with combat grenades, detonators and other components in Pavlohrad and Shakhtarsk. The FSB planned to transfer the coordinates of these caches to potential perpetrators of terrorist attacks. According to the case materials, the traitor set up caches near abandoned buildings and local cemeteries. In addition, he also left SIM cards and phones for secret communication disguised in juice boxes in the hiding places. The SBU military counterintelligence documented each episode of the suspect's subversive activities and detained him at the final stage of the special operation. The detainee's Russian passport, issued to him in 2024, was seized. Investigators of the Security Service informed him of suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - treason under martial law and the article on illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosives. The perpetrator is in custody. He faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property. Jennifer Tilly -- best known for playing Tiffany and a fictionalized version of herself in the Chucky film and TV franchise -- has joined the cast of School Spirits Season 3. ADVERTISEMENT "Very excited about joining School Spirits for Season 3!" Tilly wrote on X Monday. Deadline reported Tilly will play a character named Dr. Deborah Hunter-Price, but offered no details about who she is or how she might interact with the show's main characters. The Paramount+ ghost story follows a group of students trying to rescue Maddie (Peyton List), a teen who seems to be caught between the worlds of the living and dead in their high school. The cast includes Kristian Ventura, Milo Manheim, Spencer MacPherson, Kiara Pichardo, Sarah Yarkin, Nick Pugliese and Rainbow Wedell. Season 2 wrapped up in March. Daytime Emmy-winner Tristan Rogers, the actor who has played dashing Robert Scorpio on the soap opera General Hospital since the 1980s, is battling cancer. ADVERTISEMENT "While he remains hopeful and is working closely with his medical team on a treatment plan, this is a challenging time for Tristan and his family," Rogers' representative said in a statement this week. "As they face both the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis, the family kindly asks for privacy and understanding. They are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love from their friends and family." Rogers, 79, has also appeared on Studio City, The Bay and The Young and the Restless. Actor Josh Lucas married meteorologist Brianna Ruffalo in Vatican City over the weekend. ADVERTISEMENT The Sweet Home Alabama and Yellowstone star shared photos of him and his bride all dressed up in two Instagram posts. Lucas is wearing a dark suit and Ruffalo a white lace, strapless gown and veil. The actor thanked everyone who helped "make the dream of wedding in the #vatican come true." In her own post, Ruffalo wrote: "Mr. and Mrs. Incredibly blessed to receive this sacrament together inside the heart of the Catholic Church and holy city." Lucas replied in the comments: "I love you! Easily one of the greatest days of my life. I am so so grateful." The couple announced their engagement last summer. Andhra Pradesh will establish two expansive integrated space cities in Lepakshi and Tirupati, spanning around 33,000 acres. IMAGE: ISRO launches RISAT-2BR1 and 9 customer satellites from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Photograph: ANI Photo In a sweeping push to cement its place in the global space economy, Andhra Pradesh has cleared a new policy aimed at transforming the state into a major manufacturing hub for the space sector. With an eye on attracting investments to the tune of Rs 25,000 crore (Rs 250 billion) over the next decade, the state will establish two expansive integrated space cities in Lepakshi and Tirupati, spanning around 33,000 acres, said a senior state government official. The plan comes as part of India's broader ambition to grow its space economy to $44 billion by 2033, and aligns with the Centre's long-term strategy, which includes a proposed Rs 1.5 trillion investment in the sector by 2035. Andhra's new blueprint -- christened Space Policy 4.0 -- marks one of the earliest instances of a state-level framework in the field. Proximity to India's lone spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota offers a logistical and strategic edge to both sites. Lepakshi, located roughly 100 kilometres from Bengaluru, is being allocated nearly 30,000 acres and sits close to the Indian Space Research Organisation's R&D ecosystem and aerospace clusters. Tirupati, meanwhile, will see the development of a space city over 2,800 acres in Routhusurmala village, Chittoor district, with direct road access to Sriharikota. "Through the space policy cleared by the cabinet, the state will encourage creation of satellite constellations, launch of remote-sensing satellites and advanced technology missions," said the senior state official. "The state's vision is to build a space industrial ecosystem and attract global investments. We are targeting investments to the tune of around Rs 25,000 crore by 2035." The policy package is underpinned by a set of incentives aimed at drawing both domestic and international players. For MSMEs, the N Chandrababu Naidu government has proposed fiscal support covering up to 75 per cent of their investment. Through its Manufacturing Enterprises Development Policy (MEDP) 4.0, subsidies could reach 45 per cent of fixed capital for special category units, with an upper cap of 75 per cent total support. For larger bets -- those ranging from Rs 125 crore (Rs 1.25 billion) to over Rs 500 crore (Rs 5 billion) -- the state government will offer a suite of tailor-made incentives. These include land cost rebates, technology-transfer subsidies, state goods and services tax reimbursements, and incentives layered on top of central production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes. Mega projects above Rs 500 crore will qualify for such a support package. Beyond monetary incentives, the policy promises significant investment in common infrastructure. Testing facilities, integration bays for satellites and launch vehicles, quality and certification laboratories, and direct logistics corridors are among the facilities planned. The state is also targeting the creation of 5,000 direct jobs and 30,000 indirect jobs by 2035 through this space-focused industrial buildout. Infrastructure development incentives will cover up to 50 per cent of project costs, including equipment expenses, capped at Rs 3 crore (Rs 30 million) per laboratory, intended to catalyse the setting up of critical shared testing and quality infrastructure. Andhra's move follows a wave of announcements in recent years by other states eager to stake their claim on India's emerging space race. Telangana was the first to declare a space policy, in 2022, followed by Kerala in 2023. On April 17 this year, Gujarat rolled out a long-term space-sector strategy, prompting Tamil Nadu -- whose draft policy had already been floated -- to formally unveil within hours the Tamil Nadu Space Industrial Policy. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff Non-resident Indians (NRIs) havent gone big on the Indian stock market story despite the post-pandemic boom. Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff While domestic participation through mutual funds (MFs) and dematerialised accounts has soared, NRI participation figures show limited signs of a similar rise. The value of NRI assets under custody rose from Rs 3,486 crore in 201819 (FY19) to Rs 17,275.96 crore as of May 2025, according to the latest data from the Securities and Exchange Board of Indias monthly bulletin. But this works out to less than 2 per cent of the Rs 14 trillion in NRI deposits with banks. Industry participants suggest that the exposure may be higher, but data from other sources also show limited penetration relative to the growing domestic investor base. The share of NRIs and other overseas investors in MF assets stood at 4.05 per cent in March 2025, lower than the 4.24 per cent seen in March 2019, according to the latest Association of Mutual Funds in India numbers. A combination of local procedural hurdles for NRIs investing in India, as well as complications arising from overseas regulatory and tax regimes, has affected flows, according to experts. Issues such as taxation and stricter know-your-customer requirements have played a role in keeping participation low, said Tanvi Kanchan, head of NRI business and strategy at Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers. Non-residents have tax deducted at source in India, along with potential taxation in their home countries. Many remain unaware of the procedures to avoid double taxation using treaty benefits. Meanwhile, signing up for a broking account for the first time also involves documentation that may require notarisation from an embassy and a more cumbersome offline process than is seen for residents. For NRIs, you cant have online onboarding, she said. Procedural issues involving local norms can also affect NRIs trying to open accounts, according to Jones George, executive director at Geojit Financial Services. For example, in West Asia, utility bills may be in the name of the owner rather than the tenant, making it difficult for NRIs to produce proof of address an issue for which there is no easy workaround. The requirement for a one-time password also affects NRIs who do not have an Indian mobile number. They are required to set up a Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS) account for stock market investments, but this can be challenging if their primary bank has not upgraded its systems. With large banks, it is seamless, but there are many banks (smaller, regional ones with NRI business where) there are challenges, he said. Transaction costs also tend to be on the higher side for many PIS accounts, he added. There are people from the US who want to invest, but because of various problems, they are not able to, said Suresh Sadagopan, founder of Ladder7 Financial Advisories. The US government requires cumbersome tax reporting procedures under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, which has caused many MFs to stop accepting NRI money from the US and Canada. Some jurisdictions also tax unrealised gains, which can further complicate tax matters, said Sadagopan. Domestic participation has driven MF assets from Rs 23.8 trillion in FY19 to Rs 74.4 trillion as of June 2025. The number of demat accounts has increased from 35.9 million in March 2019 to nearly 200 million as of June 2025. Overseas Indians sent home remittances of over $135 billion (over Rs 11 trillion) in 202425. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. The head of an organ procurement group told a House panel Tuesday he would be "disturbed" if he had witnessed a 2021 case in which a Kentucky man was prepared for organ retrieval even while shaking his head "no" and bringing his knees up to his chest. "Seeing someone like that myself, personally, yes, I think I would be disturbed," said Barry Massa, CEO of Network for Hope, a group under scrutiny by federal officials for allowing more than 70 potential donors to be prepared for organ removal even as they showed neurological signs that should have ruled out procurement. Massa and other officials who coordinate the retrieval and transport of human organs for transplant faced heated questions from an oversight subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The hearing focused on serious mistakes in the process of removing kidneys, livers, lungs and other organs from patients, detailed in a March federal report made public this week. Lawmakers repeatedly pressed Massa to explain how the Kentucky man, whose case was detailed in the report, could have been moved toward surgery even as he was crying and moving around. "This seems to be a story more fitting for a horror movie than a congressional hearing, frankly," said Rep. Neal Dunn (R-Florida). Massa, whose federally chartered nonprofit organization oversees organ procurement in Kentucky and parts of West Virginia and Ohio, said the coronavirus pandemic had affected communication between his workers and hospital staff, but did not explain how. But he insisted policies and regulations were followed throughout the incident. "I think in that case, the communication could have been vastly improved," Massa told lawmakers. Massa's group, one of 56 that operate across the U.S., must submit a report to the Department of Health and Human Services by the end of the month on how it aims to avoid repeating dozens of cases in which patients were prepared for donation even while showing signs of life. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. threatened Monday to decertify Network for Hope if it fails to follow protocols that regulate when an organ can be taken from a donor. He also announced changes to the nation's organ transplant system to address systemic problems with the organ donation process and restore public trust in it. The HHS investigation found Network for Hope's workers pressured doctors to start procuring organs from patients even as they showed signs of life. Of 351 cases in which organ donation was authorized but not completed, HHS found 103 cases with "concerning features, including 73 patients with neurological signs incompatible with organ donation," according to Kennedy's statement. At least 28 patients may not have been deceased when organ procurement was initiated, the statement said. HHS also said it found evidence of "poor neurological assessments, lack of coordination with medical teams, questionable consent practices and misclassification of causes of death." On Sunday, a report by the New York Times about such patients included one who was presumed to be dead but whose heart was discovered to be beating after a surgeon made an incision in her chest for procurement surgery. "Our findings show that hospitals allowed the organ procurement process to begin when patients showed signs of life, and this is horrifying," Kennedy said in a statement. Raymond Lynch, chief of the organ transplant branch of the Health Resources and Services Administration, told lawmakers his agency has received additional reports of similar mistakes in other parts of the country served by other OPOs. "Unfortunately it is not limited to [Network for Hope]," Lynch said. The Association of Organ Procurement Organizations, a trade group, said it is "treating the concerns raised in the HHS announcement very seriously." The controversy around organ donation partly stems from a change in which patients are considered eligible for donation. Historically, the majority of donations have come from brain-dead patients. But now, roughly half of all donations are from patients who have experienced "circulatory death." Such patients may still show brain activity, but doctors have determined they are near death and will not recover. With family consent, life support can be withdrawn, and doctors then wait for the heart to stop beating. The number of donations from patients with circulatory death doubled from 2021 to 2024, according to the Organ Procurement and Transplant Network, the organ transplant system. There are now 23 percent more organ transplants performed annually than in 2020, which, in part, reflects an increased supply from this practice. Still, about 105,000 people are on the waiting list for a transplant and an average of 13 people die every day awaiting organs. The New York Times also reported that in some cases OPOs have pressured doctors to move quickly to procure organs in the short time frame required, even as patients showed signs of consciousness. One 50-year-old man detailed in the HHS report woke up while lying on an operating table, prepped for surgery. Even after he was able to follow commands, he wasn't immediately taken back to the Intensive Care Unit. It created a "very uncomfortable situation for the nurse involved, because the patient had no idea what was going on but was becoming more aware by the minute," according to the report. HHS launched its investigation after a House committee hearing in September, during which a former employee of the Kentucky OPO revealed that she, a surgeon and other workers refused to procure organs from a patient who was being prepared for surgery but was shaking his head and crying. Kennedy said OPOs must adopt a formal process that allows any staff member to halt a donation process if patient safety concerns arise. They also must review any failures to follow protocol - including a requirement to wait five minutes after a patient is dead before making an incision - and develop clear policies around who is eligible for organ donation. Massa told lawmakers that Network for Hope has set up a number of reforms in response to the findings, including checklists for nurses and attending physicians to help them follow protocols in determining when a patient is ready for organ removal surgery. It has produced a 10-minute video that explains the process from beginning to end. "I think, going forward, we will never have a case like that again," he said, referring to the Kentucky man, who has since recovered. (COMMENT, BELOW) Photo: https://www.facebook.com/UkraineMFA German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has criticized Ukraine's adoption of a law that restricts the powers of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), and noted that this complicates its European integration. "Limiting the independence of Ukrainian anti-corruption bodies complicates Ukraine's path to the EU. I expect Ukraine to consistently continue the fight against corruption. That is why I also met in Kyiv with the heads of NABU and SAPO," Wadephul said in a statement published by the German foreign ministry on X on Wednesday. As reported, the Verkhovna Rada at its meeting on Tuesday supported by 263 votes in the second reading and in general draft law No. 12414, which limited the independence of NABU and SAPO. The Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, immediately signed the law and sent it to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for signature, while in normal practice this happens after considering blocking resolutions submitted by opponents. European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed concern about the Council's vote on the draft law, noting that it was a "serious step backwards." In addition, she stressed that the rule of law remains at the very heart of Ukraine's EU accession negotiations. Later, after talking with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka, Kos stated that the EU would continue to work "with Ukraine on the necessary reforms in the area of the rule of law and progress on the path to the EU." In turn, Deputy Prime Minister Kachka assured Kos in the conversation that Ukraine's reform agenda and commitments to join the European Union remain fully valid. A number of politicians and public figures, as well as representatives of the European Commission, have categorically opposed this bill and called on Zelenskyy to veto it. Protests against the bill were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Rivne on Tuesday. Zelenskyy later signed this law. The document was published in the parliamentary publication Voice of Ukraine (Holos Ukrainy) on July 22. It comes into force on the day following its publication, that is, July 23. Currently, people's deputies are initiating the collection of signatures and preparing a constitutional submission to the Constitutional Court of Ukraine regarding the law on narrowing the powers of the NABU and the SAPO. The delayed timing of J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's admission has more to do with deflecting the thrust of the Opposition attack on the prime minister and Union home minister during the monsoon session of Parliament, points out Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs. IMAGE: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah jumped over the boundary wall of the Mazar-e-Shuhada in Srinagar, July 14, 2025 to recite prayers after he was allegedly stopped by the security forces. Photograph: National Conference/ANI Video Grab It was an ominous coincidence; probably more by accident than by design. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha took three long months to acknowledge and own up responsibility for the 'security and administrative failure' resulting in the April 22 Pahalgam carnage. It came in the thick of an unseemly public display of hand-to-hand fighting between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his ministerial colleagues on one side and security personnel in uniform at the Shaheed Mazar (Martyrs' graveyard) located in the heart of downtown Srinagar. The delayed timing of Sinha's admission apparently has more to do with deflecting the thrust of the Opposition attack on the prime minister and Union home minister during the monsoon session of Parliament. Home Minister Amit Shah is in direct control of law and order in the Union Territory. There is no other plausible reason, considering that the immediate circumstance of the April 22 Baisaran attack, resulting in the merciless killing of 25 tourists and a local person, left hardly anything to doubt about the gross security failure. There was no sign of any security cover in or around the bustling tourist spot, even though preparations were underway for securing the annual Amarnath Yatra with its base camp right there in Pahalgam, a couple of kilometres from Baisaran. Sinha's 5-year tenure ends on August 6. Until Pahalgam happened, his track record was, by and large, unblemished. Though, lately, he allowed himself to be seen playing 'partisan politics' vis a vis Omar Abdullah. The gravity of this solitary failure on the lieutenant governor's part is such that his entire track record gets badly tarnished, considering that what he routinely holds out as a 'security and intelligence failure' brought India and Pakistan to the brink of yet another war over Kashmir. Indeed, the country is yet to be told about the exact dimensions of the conflict. Kashmir, in that way, has yet again proved to be a notorious graveyard of reputations. Suddenly, the dead 'Kashmir issue' seems to have come alive viciously, if only to go by US President Donald Trump's incessant public statements. Post the 1972 Simla Accord, India had succeeded in, by and large, convincing the world public opinion that 'Kashmir' was a bilateral issues between the two neighbouring countries. Suddenly, that position looks to be in jeopardy, thanks to Trump's verbal diarrhoea. At the other end, there is no trace of the killers who sneaked into a supposedly secure base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, killed innocent tourists mercilessly and vanished into thin air. The suspicion is that a group or small groups of well armed and tactically well equipped Pakistani intruders have been having a free run all along the Pir Panchal mountain range from Poonch-Rajouri to Kishtwar, Pahalgam and Kargil over the past year or two. IMAGE: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Spokesperson, JKNC, Tanvir Sadiq, recite prayers (Fatiha) at the Mazar-e-Shuhada. Photograph: National Conference/ANI Video Grab That kind of a troubling security backdrop simply does not brook politicking by the head of the administration, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in this case. And yet that was what was on public display earlier this month when Omar Abdullah was seen in physical combat with security personnel at the martyrs memorial in downtown Srinagar. It seems that Sinha is following the copybook of his Delhi counterpart whose non-stop run-inn with Arvind Kejriwal, blessed by the central government, did not stop until the AAP government was downed. According to Omar Abdullah, even such a routine matter as setting the rules of business for administrative functioning under the existing anomalous arrangement have not been cleared by Sinha. The result is that the elected component of the government has remained paralysed since it took office more than seven months ago. As if to rub salt into the Abdullah government's wound, Sinha's office recently announced over a dozen administrative transfers of state cadre officers who are technically supposed to be under the chief minister's jurisdiction, just as IAS and IPS officers come under the lieutenant governor's administrative jurisdiction. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi releases commemorative coins after inaugurating the Chenab bridge and Anji bridge in Reasi, June 6, 2025 in the presence of Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Photograph: ANI Photo Perhaps Omar Abdullah had foreseen it all when he publicly declared that he would not contest assembly elections until full statehood was restored to Jammu and Kashmir. His father Farooq Abdullah prevailed upon him and he contested from two constituencies in last year's assembly election. After coming to power, he allowed himself to be seen singing paeans to whosoever visited the state, from Prime Minister Modi down to Kiren Rijiju. But after his forgettable experience on July 14, Omar seems to be probing some respectable alternative course. To what end, god only knows. IMAGE: A view of the terror attack site in Baisaran, Pahalgam, April 23, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Now that his tormentor Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has belatedly accepted gross security failure under his watch public attention is shifting to what next. As it is, there are a couple of possibilities: 1. Sinha is allowed to continue indefinitely beyond the end of his 5-year term on August 6 until a successor is chosen and formally installed; 2. He gets an extension of his tenure beyond August 6. Sinha is said to be the prime minister's choice for BJP president. In that case he might be moving out of the state, though apparently not that soon either. IMAGE: Security personnel stand guard after the Srinagar district administration denied permission to all political parties to visit the Mazar-e-Shuhada in Srinagar to mark Martyrs' Day. Photograph: ANI Photo Whatever the eventual case, the relationship between the lieutenant governor and the chief minister is vitiated by the bad blood created by recent events. That does not augur well for a sensitive border state like J&K. The April 22 Pahalgam carnage and its cascading effect holds a lesson that could be ignored only at the unaffordable cost of national security. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff It's more than a month now. I have not started smoking and don't ever plan to. Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff One morning a couple of years ago I felt a swelling in my gums, but there was no pain. A week later I met my dentist who told me that there was a rotten tooth near the swelling and once that was removed the swelling would subside. I told him I would let him know. I only had 15 teeth and did not want to lose one more. As there was no pain, I decided to let it be until it started giving me trouble. In April this year, my gums started paining so I went back to my dentist. He told me to get an X-ray and a 3D image. After seeing the images my dentist informed me that the swelling had become a cyst and I had to remove it as soon as possible. I went to the Malar hospital in Adyar in Chennai as I had major surgery there three years ago. As I have diabetes, the hospital dentist asked me to get a certificate from the diabetologist that I was fit for the procedure. The diabetologist asked me to get my blood tested. Scutinising my blood report, the diabetologist said my sugar level was high. He changed my diabetes medication and told me to come back after a month. A month later, the random blood test showed that my blood sugar level had come down. I got a certificate saying that I was fit for the procedure. The chief dental surgeon at Malar hospital explained that the procedure was a complicated extraction as there was a cyst below the teeth. He would extract two teeth first and then remove the cyst. I had not want to lose one tooth, and now I was going to lose two. He said he would put sutures to hold the gums together till they healed. He asked if I smoked and I admitted that I had been smoking for almost fifty years. He asked if I was a comfortable patient in the dental chair or would I be uncomfortable. I told him that I was most certainly an uncomfortable patient. He also told me that as they would be performing the procedure under general anaesthesia I should have an attendant with me. I said my younger sister Saraswati would accompany me. We reached the hospital 15 minutes before the procedure. My sister was asked to get a few things from the pharmacy. I didn't want to sit there alone, so I went down with her. I was very nervous. My sister gave me an encouraging hug and said all will be well, don't worry. The anaesthetist explained to me that he would be administering the anaesthetia intravenously and I would fall asleep. I did fall asleep, I felt someone pulling out one tooth and then another, but did not feel anything else. More than an hour passed before I woke up. The dental surgeon had prescribed antibiotics and pain killers. I was told to take the pain killers only if I had any pain. There was also a medicine with which I had to gargle three times a day. "Please do not smoke till the wound heals," the surgeon said. "If you smoke and the wound does not heal, there is nothing we can do". The thought of a wound in my mouth not healing was terrifying. The cyst had been sent for testing and we would get the result in a week. On the way home we stopped to buy ice cream. On the doctor's instructions I chewed food only on the left side of my mouth. That week I had curd rice, Pongal and idlis. I made sure that I did not eat anything hard. After a week we went for the review. We had to collect the results first. My sister collected it, read it, smiled and then gave it to me. I was relieved and said a silent prayer when I saw that the cyst was benign. The dental surgeon checked the gums and said the healing was good, then asked if I had started smoking. I said no. Two weeks later I went to the hospital to remove the sutures. The dental surgeon applied a gel before removing the sutures. "Now you can start chewing from both sides, slowly." "Have you started smoking?" I said, "No". It's more than a month now. I have not started smoking and don't ever plan to. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff '... when the process isn't transparent, people will naturally raise questions.' 'The AAIB's own press release says they had the black boxes by June 16. Why wasn't decoding initiated until the 24th?' 'What were they waiting for?' IMAGE: Investigators inspect the wreckage of the London-bound Air India flight which crashed on June 12, 2025 in Ahmedabad. Photograph: ANI Video Grab In the first part of a two-part interview with Prasanna D Zore/Rediff, a senior aviation expert -- who wishes to remain anonymous for personal reasons -- tears into the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's handling of the Air India 171 crash probe. Why did it take over 10 days to begin decoding the front black box? Why was there no official government order constituting the investigation team? Where are the Boeing 787 experts on the panel? He argues that India's technical expertise is being sidelined in favour of the US NTSB (external link; National Transportation Safety Board which investigates major US transport accidents, identifies causes, and issues safety recommendations to prevent future incidents across all transportation modes) and that the AAIB's (India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, under the civil aviation ministry, investigates air accidents to meet international obligations under ICAO's Annex 13 convention; external link) press release reflects deep confusion and structural flaws. "There's no transparency," he warns. "If the DG (Director General) AAIB (Group Captain Godaba Venkata Gouri Yugandhar) is leading the probe, why isn't the media being briefed?" This section of the interview raises core concerns about the integrity, jurisdiction, and urgency of the crash investigation -- and whether India's aviation safety framework is being compromised at its highest levels. Why did it take more than 10 days to begin decoding data from the front black box? Doesn't this go against global best practices? No one really knows. As per ICAO Annex 13 and Doc 9756 -- the global standard for accident investigations -- once the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau team is constituted, it should immediately take custody of all evidence. But that hasn't happened here (in the AI 171 crash probe). The AAIB seems to have multiple teams, including a so-called 'go team' that collects evidence and brings it to Delhi. That's not how this process is supposed to work. This is not how a crash probe should work. The team conducting the investigation should be the custodian of every piece of evidence -- whether it's the CVR or anything else. I've always supported the AAIB, but their recent press release shows serious issues, particularly in how they describe the investigation's structure. The release says the director general AAIB is heading the probe. He's a retired Indian Air Force aeronautical engineer, but what are his specific qualifications on a complex commercial aircraft like the Boeing 787? Where is the aircraft-specific engineer? Where is the type-rated pilot? If such people have been included, why not disclose it? Why this opacity? Also, the DG says the NTSB is 'part of the investigation,' but as per protocol, they are supposed to be observers, offering technical expertise if required -- not leading or managing the probe. Why is the NTSB being treated as a technical lead? Don't we have our own type-rated experts? Exactly. India has engineers and pilots qualified on the 787. If their expertise is exhausted or if something unusual arises, then the NTSB can step in. But to say that we need them from day one? That undermines our own technical ecosystem. Isn't this entire approach by the AAIB fundamentally flawed? Absolutely. There are no clearly defined timelines, no official order listing the investigation team. ICAO guidelines and India's own DGCA manual (Section 5, Series C, Part 1; external link) mandate that the investigation begin immediately, submit a preliminary report within 30 days, and eventually a final report. All of this should be documented in a formal government order. Where is it? So, in your view, is this negligence or intentional? I don't want to speculate on motives. But when the process isn't transparent, people will naturally raise questions. For instance, the AAIB's own press release says they had the black boxes by June 16. Why wasn't decoding initiated until the 24th? What were they waiting for? Could it be that they didn't have the equipment in place to decode the data? IMAGE: Soldiers from the Indian Army's Golden Katar Division remove debris at the site where the Air India plane crashed in Ahmedabad, June 12, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo That's the only explanation I can think of. Maybe they had to bring in equipment from the NTSB. Otherwise, even as an aviation professional this delay makes no sense to me. Given the gravity of this crash and its implications for Indian aviation, one would expect a much swifter, more professional response. In previous accidents, how long did AAIB typically take to decode black boxes? Is this delay unprecedented? Until recently, we didn't have in-country capabilities. The black boxes were usually sent to the aircraft manufacturer -- Boeing -- accompanied by AAIB staff. That process could take over a month. But now that we have a lab, we should be acting faster. That said, AAIB has historically not filed preliminary reports in a timely fashion. You can check their Web site -- very few reports are uploaded within the mandated 30 days. Unfortunately, this isn't a new problem. It's been over two weeks, and reports suggest the lead investigator hasn't been officially appointed. Is that correct? The press release says the DG AAIB (G V G Yugandhar) himself is heading the investigation. If that's the case, then he should be the one briefing the media, issuing status updates, and outlining the plan. Why hasn't he done that? Also, to repeat a key point: is the DG (AAIB) type-rated on the Boeing 787? No. Then where are the type-qualified (same as type-rated) experts? Where is the engineer who understands this aircraft inside-out? None of them seem to be on the team. ( Note: 'Type-rated' means that a pilot or engineer is officially certified -- after undergoing specific training and exams -- to operate or work on a particular type of aircraft.) (In aviation, each major aircraft model (like the Boeing 787, Airbus A320, etc) requires its own type rating because of the significant differences in systems, handling, avionics, and emergency procedures. This certification is in addition to a basic pilot license or engineering qualification.) So, is the DG of the AAIB type-rated on the Boeing 787? No. The Director General AAIB (G V G Yugandhar) is a retired Indian Air Force aeronautical engineer, not a commercial pilot or engineer trained specifically on the Boeing 787. Therefore, he is not type-rated on the Boeing 787. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff 'The protection of secrecy and anonymity gets lost with this linking.' IMAGE: A Booth Level Officer (BLO) conducts door-to-door distribution of enumeration forms and collection of filled forms under the Special Intensive Revision-2025 ahead of the Bihar assembly elections in Nawada, July 13, 2025. Photograph: @CEOBihar X/ANI Photo Months before the Bihar state assembly election, the Election Commission of India (ECI) started a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in the state. The reason for SIR according to the ECI was to 'ensure that no eligible citizen is left out while no ineligible person is included in the Electoral Roll'. But the Opposition parties did not take kindly to the SIR, which they charged with discriminating and disenfranchising voters. What was shocking was the exclusion of the Aadhar card and Voter ID card as identity proof. Those who feared that the ECI's move would affect the vulnerable population, especially those in the rural areas, migrant labourers, and individuals who might have lost personal belongings in floods or other natural disasters over the years, appealed to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court came heavily on the Election Commission's decision to ask for multiple documents for roll revision in Bihar. The Supreme Court urged the Election Commission to accept Aadhaar, ration cards and EPICs for voter identity verification. It appears the ECI is firm on its decision to exclude the Aadhar card and Voter ID card. The enumeration drive in Bihar began on July 1 and the draft electoral roll will be published on August 1. The final roll will be out on September 30. "It is beginning to be clear that even the ECI knows that the UID is of no use in keeping the electoral rolls in order," Dr Usha Ramanathan, who has been campaigning on the social, legal and economic aspects of the Aadhar card project from 2009 onwards as an independent legal researcher, tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier. Part one of a must read interview: There was a time if you didn't have an Aadhaar card, you didn't exist. But the situation today is that the Election Commission does not consider the Aadhaar card as a valid identity proofs in Bihar. How do you see this? The Election Commission has some explaining to do. In 2015, when the UID project was under challenge in the Supreme Court and the court had ordered that the ID could not be mandatory, the Election Commission began a drive to link it with the voter ID. That was halted after the matter was taken to court. A couple of years ago, the ECI started another round of linking the UID with the voter ID, claiming that it would help in de-duplication. Earlier this year, when the West Bengal government raised the issue of duplicate numbers, the ECI used the digital data base of the voter rolls to deal with the duplicate numbers. They did it without the Aadhaar (UID). And now, when the Supreme Court asks them to consider Aadhaar as an ID, they have turned it down. It is beginning to be clear that even the ECI knows that the UID is of no use in keeping the electoral rolls in order. Its interest every time that it brings up the UID has been only to link it with the voter ID. Also, the UID database is incredibly defective. Sixteen years after it was launched, it abounds with tales of non-correctable errors of names and date of birth, biometric failures -- fingerprints are a problem, iris never took off, facial recognition is the latest experiment, and it is all reduced to an OTP which is a luxury for those who don't have phones or whose numbers change because of circumstance -- identity fraud, exclusion, people who have lost their number, others unable to enrol often getting a message that they are duplicates! Almost every scam has a UID element. Recently, the UID asked the Registrar General of India for a list of people on the death register so they can update the UID database `after due validation'. This is how the UIDAI goes scraping off other databases, which are themselves incomplete and not reliable, which is why the 'due validation'. And since the UIDAI has no system in place for such validation, I must say it sounds like a phrase without definite meaning. All this has meant that the number can be mandated to be on every database, but it is uncertain for people as an ID. The ECI seems not to particularly care when it asks for the voter ID and the UID to be linked, leaving the onus on the individual. Its unwillingness is when it is asked to accept the UID as a legal ID. IMAGE: The work of submitting, collecting and uploading the counting forms on the ECI app being done by Booth Level Officers and BLO supervisors during the Special Intensive Revision work in Saran, July 11, 2025. Photograph: @CEOBihar X/ANI Photo Today, we are asked to link Aadhaar with every other id we have. This way, people are totally exposed. Is it a right thing to do? It is, in fact, a very unwise, even dangerous thing to do. Databases are not impenetrable. How often do we hear of databases being breached? Cyber security is still in its nascence. The thing about databases is that, unlike physical assets which we know when it is stolen, we may not even know when data gets stolen. For years now, Commodore Batra has been warning us about the foolishness of the data, including health data, of the armed forces being linked with the UID, and the increased vulnerability it creates. Who's listening? We have become aware of databases being breached only when ethical hackers tell us, or someone sees it on the Dark Web, or, very occasionally, our cybersecurity agency CERT-IN may notice the breach. Imagine the data about every individual in a country being in the hands of an adversary, or even a friend! And us, not even knowing! Have you wondered what kind of surveillance must have been inexistence for the five scientists in Iran to be targeted and killed? They knew where they were, and where to attack them. Doesn't it make you wonder? Let's be clear about this: This vulnerability that is being created by linking all databases and making the profiling of persons and communities so easy, is putting the whole nation at risk, even as it is putting every individual at risk. In the context of elections, when the voter ID gets linked with the UID, which is ubiquitous in every database, tracking voting patterns and connecting that with the profiles of people voting there is prone to create its own vulnerabilities. You may remember when people were protesting against locating the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in their neighbourhood, in an act of protest they threw their voter IDs into the compound of the district administration, signalling that they were upset with their voices not being heard. Newspapers reported that an angry district official had asked for the voter IDs to be collected and checked to see if they were on the PDS, and to have their rations stopped. If the UID were embedded in the voter ID as it is in all the other databases, the administration would be able to mete out punishment without any process. Those needing State support, say in food, education, health, work, housing, would be most threatened. IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav, DMK MPs T R Balu, A Raja, RJD MP Misa Bharti and other INDIA bloc MPs protest against the SIR exercise in Bihar during the monsoon session of Parliament, July 22, 2025. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo You mean, it will become easy for political parties to find out who voted for them and punish the people living in an area that did not vote for the winning party? The danger in that is not difficult to see. The UID has been expanded to reach large numbers of databases, literally from before birth to after death. The profiling of people has been made so easy. Linking it with the voter ID adds one more element of convergence of data. The protection of secrecy and anonymity gets lost with this linking. We cannot afford to forget that government has access to all these databases, and so the ability to create profiles of every person, every constituency, every state. More than the political parties, it helps whichever government is in power. See, the government has access to a lot of data, including having control over the UID database. This is under the Aadhaar Act. Further, we are at a stage where all this data is being pushed to be used for commerce and private companies are being egged on to take the data and make products, and develop AI tools. Everybody in the US made a lot of noise when Elon Musk asked for social security information. There was a lot of dust kicked up when Musk tried to get his hands on information from the social security, income tax and other state systems. Here, in India, there is not even a whisper when the government says to corporates, even start-ups to 'please come and take the data' so that they can make products and commerce out of it. IMAGE: Dr Usha Ramanathan IMAGE: Dr Usha Ramanathan That makes every individual exposed and vulnerable... Exactly. There has to be a difference of imagination between the corporate and the State. If the State and the corporates have the same imagination, corporate imagination will triumph. And corporates' imagination is not about people nor is it about national security; it is about profit. In the technology field, it is now no secret that corporate imagination is about taking control of people, their feelings and emotions. Part 2 of the Interview: 'Every Citizen Will Become A Doubtful Voter' Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff 'It is a crisis of the BJP's own doing. This is an in-house fire.' IMAGE: President Droupadi Murmu flanked by then vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On the left: Dr Sudesh Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, former President Ram Nath Kovind and Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. On the right: Chief Justice of India Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, Tejaswini Gavai, Asha Khanna and outgoing CJI Sanjiv Khanna at Rashtrapati Bhavan, May 14, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo "No government, most of all Mr Narendra Modi's, would want the spotlight on such discussions and debates [on the VP's resignation]. It reflects on the government. Mr Modi would not want that kind of stigma because the BJP portrays itself as a seamless orchestra." One of the country's leading political commentators Rasheed Kidwai discusses Jagdeep Dhankhar's unprecedented resignation as Vice President with Rediff's Archana Masih in the concluding part of the interview. Part 1 of the Interview: 'Dhankhar's Resignation Laced With Intrigue' What electoral calculation will the BJP make to choose the next vice president whose term will extend till 2030 -- and who could even be the next President? With a majority in both Houses of Parliament, the NDA can get its own candidate elected as vice president. But then, an election always throws up many imponderables. This has opened a pandora's box in view of the Bihar election in a few months. No government, most of all Mr Narendra Modi's, would want the spotlight on such discussion, debate and discourse. It reflects on the government. Mr Modi would not want that kind of stigma because the BJP portrays itself as a seamless orchestra. What impact will it have on Modi-Shah? Will they ride this out? It is a political crisis. It depends upon how they handle it and on the choice of the next nominee. Mr Dhankhar was a political lightweight. He had previously been with the Janata Dal and Congress before joining the BJP in 2008. He had changed political loyalties like clothes and was not expected to be problematic. IMAGE: Jagdeep Dhankhar pays floral tributes to former prime minister Chandra Shekhar at the Jan Nayak Sthal, Vijay Ghat in New Delhi, July 8, 2025. Photograph: Press Information Bureau Can he become an embarrassment to the BJP like Satyapal Malik? No, I don't think so. Will the RSS have a greater choice in selecting the incumbent? Perhaps. It will reflect on the compromise reached between the RSS and Mr Modi. IMAGE: Jagdeep Dhankhar arrives in the Rajya Sabha. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab Who do you think could be the likely candidates for VP? Justice D Y Chandrachud, Harivansh Narayan Singh, Nirmala Sitharaman? It is actually very difficult to speculate. The composition of the Rajya Sabha is evenly poised with an edge to the NDA. The quality of leaders in the Rajya Sabha is much better than the Lok Sabha. Therefore, to my mind, they will require a person with a political flavour. This is the first political crisis that the BJP has seen in a long time. It is a crisis of its own doing. It is not as if its alliance partners -- the JD-U or TDP --have withdrawn support. This is an in-house fire. Even if we were to accept that poor health was the reason behind the resignation, the question is why did PM or other ministers not go to Mr Dhankhar's house and express concern? IMAGE: President Murmu, Dhankhar and Modi before the first day of the Budget session in New Delhi. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Video Grab What bearing will this have on the functioning of the Rajya Sabha? The deputy chairman Mr Harivansh Singh will take charge and there will be a semblance of business as usual. But actually it won't be business as usual because all eyes will be on what the government says and how it says it. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff 'In the inspections, no issues were found with the said locking mechanism.' IMAGE: An Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft pictured near Malpensa airport in Milan, Italy. Photograph: Jan Seba/File Photo/Reuters Air India on Tuesday said the airline and its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express, had completed precautionary inspections on the locking mechanism of the fuel-control switches on all their Boeing 787 and Boeing 737 aircraft, and no issues were found. With this, the two airlines have complied with the directives of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued on July 14, Air India said in a statement. The airline has formally communicated this to the regulator. The DGCA directive followed the preliminary report released on July 12 by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which is probing the June 12 crash of Air India flight AI 171 that killed 260 people. The report found that both engine fuel-control switches, which regulate the flow of fuel into the aircraft engines on Boeing 787s, had transitioned from 'Run' to 'Cutoff' just seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad, resulting in a dual engine failure. 'In the inspections, no issues were found with the said locking mechanism,' the Air India statement said. According to the preliminary report, the cockpit voice recorder captured one pilot asking the other why the fuel was cut off, to which the latter replied that he had not done it. A Mayday call was made shortly before the aircraft crashed into a building near the airport. Although the exact cause of the switch movement on AI 171 remains undetermined, the incident prompted the DGCA to issue a mandatory inspection order on July 14. The DGCA order referenced a 2018 Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The bulletin had warned of the possibility that Honeywell-manufactured fuel-control switches on certain Boeing aircraft, including the 737 and 787, might be installed in a way that disables their locking mechanism, which is meant to prevent accidental switch movement from 'Run' to 'Cutoff'. However, the FAA did not issue any fresh directive after the AI 171 crash, and the 2018 SAIB remains advisory. The UK Civil Aviation Authority has stated that there is no need for any action by Boeing. Meanwhile, some foreign carriers, such as Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways, conducted precautionary checks on their own. The DGCA's July 14 order required Indian operators of affected Boeing aircraft to complete inspections by July 21 and report back. Boeing 777s were exempt from the order, as they did not use the switches under scrutiny. The DGCA order applied to Boeing fleets of five Indian carriers -- Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff This mission is the 14th human flight for the New Shepard programme and the 34th in its history. IMAGE: The Blue Origin New Shepard rocket booster in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Photograph: Isaiah J. Downing/Reuters The next batch of six space tourists on the US company Blue Origin's New Shepard vehicle comprises an India born American real estate investor, a businessman, an award winning journalist, an Englishman working in Spain as a teacher, a serial entrepreneur and the founder of a block chain operating platform. Announcing the names of the six space travellers who will be flying on its NS-34 mission Blue Origin said the crew includes: real estate investor Arvinder (Arvi) Singh Bahal, Turkish businessman Gokhan Erdem, an award winning Puerto Rican meteorologist and journalist Deborah Martorell, a teacher in Spain Lionel Pitchford, serial entrepreneur J D Russell and TRON Founder Justin Sun. Blue Origin said Sun will be flying on the New Shephard for the second time. He previously flew on an NS-28 mission. This mission is the 14th human flight for the New Shepard programme and the 34th in its history. To date, Blue Origin has flown 70 people above the Karman line, the internationally recognised boundary of space. The flight date will be announced soon. IMAGE: The crew members of the NS-34 mission Blue Origin. Photograph: Kind courtesy @blueorigin/X The crew details: Arvinder (Arvi) Singh Bahal Arvi is a real estate investor born in Agra and now a naturalised US citizen. A lifelong traveler and adventurer, Arvi has visited several countries in the world, the North and South Poles, and skydived Mount Everest and the Pyramids of Giza. He holds a private pilot's license and also flies helicopters. Gokhan Erdem Gokhan is a Turkish businessman and a board member of Erdem Holding, a diverse group of companies operating in the energy, telecommunications, construction, and manufacturing sectors. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Gokhan is a passionate space enthusiast and an avid photographer. Deeply inspired by space exploration, he dreams of one day traveling to the International Space Station and possibly even beyond. Deborah Martorell Deborah is a Puerto Rican meteorologist and journalist. Her reporting on environmental and space topics has garnered eight Emmy Awards and two Awards of Excellence in Science Reporting from the American Meteorological Society. Her passion for space led her to participate in a 2007 microgravity flight with NASA, extensively cover Puerto Rican astronauts Joe Acaba and Marcos Berrios, and report on missions including STS-119, Artemis 1, and the launch of Puerto Rico's first nanosatellite, CuNARD-2. She was selected for the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences' project PoSSUM, and is also a Solar System Ambassador for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Lionel Pitchford Lionel is an Englishman who has spent the last four decades in Spain working as a teacher, translator, and tour guide as a means to travel the world. In 1992, following a plane crash with his sister and her family onboard, Lionel founded a nonprofit in Nepal dedicated to serving disadvantaged children and girls. He's also run an orphanage in Kathmandu for over 30 years. Lionel has dreamed of flying to space since catching the travel bug and is astonished it's now possible for ordinary people. He aims to inspire others to do the same. James (J D) Russell J D is a serial entrepreneur and founder of Alpha Funds, a technology-focused venture capital company, and Alpha Aerospace, an aerospace consulting and solutions company. He founded the Victoria Russell Foundation to honour the memory of his deceased daughter. The foundation is dedicated to supporting children's education and assisting the families of first responders. It's a proud partner with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to bring the love of reading to children by gifting books free of charge to children. J D first flew to space on NS-28 on November 22, 2024. Justin Sun Justin Sun is the Ambassador and former Permanent Representative of Grenada to the WTO, Prime Minister of Liberland, Founder of TRON, a world-leading blockchain and DAO, and Advisor to HTX, one of the world's largest crypto exchanges. A protege of Alibaba's Jack Ma, Sun was featured on the cover of Forbes magazine in April 2025, where he was recognized as one of the most dynamic and outspoken figures in crypto and earning the moniker 'Crypto's Billionaire Barker' for his bold approach to innovation, advocacy, and industry leadership. He's been named on Forbes' 30 under 30 list in the Consumer Technology category several times, among other global recognitions. Sun is an avid art collector, gamer, investor, philanthropist, and space enthusiast. In 2021, Justin placed the winning bid for the first seat on New Shepard. The $28 million in proceeds were donated to Blue Origin's foundation, Club for the Future, which selected 19 space-focused non-profits to each receive a $1 million grant to inspire future generations to pursue careers in STEAM and help invent the future of life in space, Blue Origin said. Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at venkatacharijagannathan@gmail.com Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff China on Wednesday defended the launch of the construction of a dam over the Brahmaputra river in the ecologically sensitive Tibet region and allayed concerns over its impact in the lower riparian countries such as India and Bangladesh. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Stringer/Reuters It is learnt that India is keeping a close eye on the construction of what is said to be the world's largest hydropower dam. Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Saturday announced the start of the construction of the dam in the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra River, locally known as Yarlung Zangbo, at Nyingchi City located close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Arunachal Pradesh sector. The project "will not have any negative impact on the downstream regions", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a media briefing, while responding to a question on concerns in India and Bangladesh over the dam. There have been mounting concerns in India over the potential environmental impact of the dam. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently called it a ticking "water bomb", an existential threat and a bigger issue than anything else apart from the military threat. In an interview to PTI Videos on July 8, Khandu said the world's largest dam project on the Brahmaputra river is a matter of grave concern as China is not a signatory to the international water treaty that could have forced it to abide by international norms. "The issue is that China cannot be trusted. No one knows what they might do," said Khandu. The dam is expected to generate more than 300 billion kWh of electricity each year, enough to meet the annual needs of over 300 million people. Concerns arose in India as the dam besides empowering China to control the water flow, the size and scale of it could also enable Beijing to release large amounts of water that could flood border areas on the Indian side. Playing down the concerns of the lower riparian states, Guo said China has cooperated with them by sharing hydrological data, flood prevention and disaster alleviation. China had necessary communication with the two countries on the project, he said, adding that China would continue to enhance cooperation with downstream countries to benefit the people along the river. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said the development of the project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is a matter of China's sovereignty. The project was aimed at building clean energy, improving local people's lives and in response to climate change, he added. In the planning, design and construction of the hydro power projects in the lower reaches, China strictly follows the highest industrial standards in protecting ecological environment in an all-round way, he said. He also claimed that the development of the project will help prevent disasters along the whole river and will not have a negative impact on the downstream regions. China has already operationalised the $1.5 billion Zam Hydropower Station, the largest in Tibet, in 2015, which raised concerns in India. Critics point out that the dams in Brahmaputra present an enormous engineering challenges as the project site is located along a tectonic plate boundary where earthquakes occur frequently. The Tibetan plateau, regarded as the roof of the world, periodically experiences earthquakes as it is located over the tectonic plates. India and China established the Expert Level Mechanism in 2006 to discuss various issues related to trans-border rivers under which China provides India with hydrological information on the Brahmaputra and Sutlej rivers during the flood seasons. However, the sharing of hydrological data between the two countries hit a roadblock following the eastern Ladakh border row. Data sharing of trans-border rivers figured in the talks between India, China Special Representatives for border question, NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, held here on December 18 last year. Reports from Dhaka said the Chinese envoy to Bangladesh Yao Wen has assured that its dam is solely for electricity generation and will not affect water flow to downstream countries. Yao conveyed the message during a meeting with Bangladesh foreign affairs adviser Mohammed Touhid Hossain during their meeting on July 21. "China will not withdraw or use any water from the project and the project will not affect downstream countries," he was quoted as saying in a media report. A Border Security Force constable, who joined the force a month ago, was arrested for robbing a Delhi jewellery store with a toy gun in broad daylight, after allegedly getting inspired by crime shows following losses in online gambling, an official said on Wednesday. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo The accused, identified as Gaurav Yadav (22), had completed his training in May 2025 after he enrolled in the Border Security Force in 2023, the official added. Yadav was posted in the BSF in Fazilka, Punjab. On June 18, a day before the robbery, he took leave and travelled to Delhi, where he planned the heist while waiting to switch trains, deputy commissioner of police (Shahdara) Prashant Gautam said in a statement. The incident occurred on June 19 at a jewellery store in Farsh Bazar, when a man entered the store brandishing what appeared to be a pistol and stole four gold bracelets before fleeing on foot. A case under Section 309(4) (robbery) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita was registered at the Farsh Bazar Police Station, and an investigation was launched, the DCP added. The police carried out technical surveillance, analysed multiple CCTV footage, call detail records, and Internet Protocol Detail Record dump data, and raised several queries on the National Intelligence Grid. "After sustained efforts and detailed analysis, the accused was identified as a BSF constable posted in Fazilka, Punjab. A raid was conducted at his native village in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, where he was apprehended. During interrogation, he confessed to the crime," DCP Gautam said. According to the police, Yadav allegedly developed a gambling addiction, incurred significant losses, and plotted the robbery after watching crime shows. "He bought a toy pistol from a local shop and used it to commit the robbery. He later travelled to Meerut, then Lucknow, and finally reached his home in Shivpuri, where he sold two of the stolen bracelets and deposited Rs 2 lakh into a bank account," the DCP added. The police recovered two gold bracelets from his home and identified the account where the Rs 2 lakh had been deposited. Gaurav had no prior criminal record, the police noted, adding that further investigation is underway. Before his surprise resignation, former vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar made an "unscheduled visit" to the Rashtrapati Bhavan late on Monday evening, official sources said. IMAGE: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Photograph: @rashtrapatibhvn/X Dhankhar met President Murmu around 9 pm on Monday and handed over his resignation to her. Half an hour later, he made his resignation letter public on X, they said. "To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution," Dhankhar said in his letter. Dhankhar, 74, assumed office in August 2022 and his term would have ended in August 2027. The resignation of Dhankhar, who was also the ex officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha, came on the first day of the Monsoon session of Parliament. Photo: https://pbs.twimg.com/ Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka and Director General of the European Commission's Directorate for Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Gert Jan Koopman discussed the situation with the law that limits the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). "Had a frank conversation with Gert Jan Kopman. Informed about the situation around Law 12414 and emphasized Ukraine's strong interest in resolving the situation with NABU/SAPO in a transparent manner," Kachka wrote on the social network X on Wednesday. He added that Ukraine is ready to take further legislative measures to ensure compliance with EU standards. "We continue to collect expert opinions. I emphasized plans to meet with the negotiating team on Chapter 23 to hear their expert opinions. Ukraine is ready for further steps - trust and open dialogue with the EU are key," he added. As reported, on July 22, the Verkhovna Rada limited the independence of the NABU and the SAPO. Some 263 people's deputies voted for the relevant bill No. 12414 on amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code regarding the features of pre-trial investigation of criminal offenses related to the disappearance of missing persons under special circumstances under martial law in the second reading and in general. In particular, the amendments to the bill empower the Prosecutor General to: be the de facto head of the SAPO and delegate the powers of the SAPO prosecutor to other prosecutors, provide NABU with mandatory written instructions and request materials of any cases, transfer requested cases to any prosecutors and transfer the investigation of cases that fall under the jurisdiction of the NABU to other bodies. EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed concern about the Council's vote on the draft law, noting that it was a "serious step backwards". She also stressed that the rule of law remains at the heart of Ukraine's EU accession negotiations. Later, after a conversation with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and Kachka, Kos stated that the EU would continue to work "with Ukraine on the necessary reforms in the area of the rule of law and progress on the path to the EU." In turn, Deputy Prime Minister Kachka assured Kos that Ukraine's reform agenda and commitments to join the European Union remain fully valid. European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andris Kubilius, commenting on the events in Ukraine, stated that trust between a warring country and its leadership in war is more important than modern weapons - it is difficult to build and maintain, but easy to lose due to one significant leadership mistake. The Election Commission on Wednesday said it has begun the process of holding the vice presidential election, two days after Jagdeep Dhankhar's surprise resignation from the post. IMAGE: Jagdeep Dhankhar arrives in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, July 21, 2025. Later in the evening, he submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu. Photograph: ANI Photo The poll authority said it has started constituting the electoral college comprising MPs of both Houses of Parliament. Both elected and nominated members are eligible to vote in the vice presidential election. It is also finalising the returning officer and assistant returning officers. "On completion of the preparatory activities, the announcement of the election schedule to the office of the Vice President of India will follow as soon as possible," the EC said. Dhankhar stepped down as vice president on Monday, citing health reasons. His term was to end on August 10, 2027. The Union home ministry on Tuesday formally notified the resignation of Dhankhar from the office of the vice president. According to Clause 2 of Article 68 of the Constitution, an election to fill a vacancy in the office of the vice president occurring due to his death, resignation or removal, or otherwise, will be held "as soon as possible" after it goes vacant. The person elected to fill the vacancy will be entitled to hold office "for the full term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office". From the day the notification is issued, "calling the electoral college to vote", and till the day of the poll, a period of 30 days is stipulated. A person cannot be elected as the vice president unless he is a citizen of India, has completed 35 years of age and is qualified for election as a member of the Rajya Sabha. A person is also not eligible if he holds any office of profit under the government of India or a state government or any subordinate local authority. The ruling NDA has a comfortable edge in the vice presidential elections. The vice president is elected by the members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, where nominated members of the Upper House are also eligible to cast their vote. The 543-member Lok Sabha has one vacant seat -- Basirhat in West Bengal -- while there are five vacancies in the 245-member Rajya Sabha. Of the five vacancies in the Rajya Sabha, four are from Jammu and Kashmir, and one from Punjab. The seat from Punjab was vacated after AAP leader Sanjeev Arora quit following his election to the state assembly in a bypoll last month. The effective strength of both the Houses together is 786 and the winning candidate will require 394 votes, considering that all eligible voters exercise their franchise. In the Lok Sabha, the BJP-led NDA enjoys the support of 293 of the 542 members. The ruling alliance has the support of 129 members in the Rajya Sabha, assuming that the nominated members vote in support of the NDA nominee, which has an effective strength of 240. The ruling alliance has the support of 422 members. Article 66 (1) of the Constitution provides that the vice presidential election shall be held in accordance with the system of Proportional Representation by means of the single transferable vote and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot. In this system, the elector has to mark preferences against the names of the candidates. The vice president is the second highest constitutional office in the country. He serves for a five-year term, but can continue to be in office, irrespective of the expiry of the term, until the successor assumes office. Six gelatin sticks and some detonators were discovered in a carry bag outside a toilet in Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand in Bengaluru on Wednesday, the police said. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo A case has been registered in this connection. A bomb disposal squad and dog squad were immediately dispatched to the spot, as soon as the police received the information about an abandoned bag, they said. The entire area was immediately cordoned off and a thorough search of the premises was conducted before police seized the recovered materials for further examination. "Six Gelatin sticks and some detonators (both separately)were found in a carry bag outside the toilet in Kalasipalya BMTC bus stand," S Girish, deputy commissioner of police (West), told media. Based on a complaint from the assistant traffic superintendent, a case was registered under Explosive Substances Act and sections 288 (negligent conduct with respect to explosive substance), 61 (criminal conspiracy) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. According to the FIR, the complainant was on duty at the Kalasipalya bus stand since 8 am and observed nothing unusual until then. Later, at around 1:15 pm, security personnel Prabhavati and Raju brought an abandoned bag, left near the toilet of the bus stand, to the complainant's office. They stated that someone had abandoned it there. The complainant, the BMTC employees and security staff were present at the scene. The police official on duty suspected that the bag might contain explosives and immediately alerted the police control room. "After receiving the alert, the police arrived at the spot and conducted a thorough inspection of the abandoned bag and confirmed the presence of explosives in it. Since Kalasipalya bus stand is a highly crowded public place, it is believed that the suspect(s) placed the explosive materials with the malicious intent of causing harm to public life and property," it stated. The matter is currently under investigation, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify the person who left the bag behind. According to the person in-charge of the public toilet at the BMTC bus stand, someone placed a plastic bag outside the facility. Upon noticing the unattended bag, he contacted the BMTC mechanics, who reached the spot. After opening the bag and identifying what looked like explosives, they informed the police. "The police team arrived with a bomb disposal squad and a dog squad. They checked the bag and confirmed that it carried gelatin and detonators. It is still not known who placed it and why," he added. At least 10 people were injured when a blast took place at Rameshwaram Cafe here last year. The investigation into the explosion was handed over to the NIA. The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad on Wednesday claimed to have busted a terror module after arresting four persons, who were allegedly promoting the ideology of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent, a proscribed outfit. IMAGE: Gujarat ATS arrests four men with links to AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent), July 23, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The quartet, two of them from Gujarat, was arrested from different locations in a multi-state operation, officials said. "A terror module affiliated with AQIS has been busted by the Gujarat ATS. Four persons linked to the proscribed terror outfit have been arrested," the agency said. These four men were involved in sharing radical and provocative content, including jihadi propaganda videos of AQIS, on social media platforms with an aim to uproot democratic system and implement 'sharia' (Islamic law) in India through an armed rebellion, said an official release. The ATS recently received a tip-off that some Instagram account holders were spreading extremist ideology of AQIS and trying to attract Muslim youth towards radical outfits by sharing inflammatory content calling for violence or terrorist acts against Indian citizens, said the release. Acting on the tip-off, the ATS kept a close watch on five such Instagram accounts and nabbed four persons, two of them hailing from Gujarat, who were running them, it said. Those arrested were identified by police as Mohammad Faiq, a resident of Delhi, Zeeshan Ali, an inhabitant of Noida (Uttar Pradesh), Saifulla Qureshi, a native of Modasa town of Arvalli district, and Ahmedabad resident Mohammad Fardeen Shaikh. "These four individuals came into contact with each other through social media. We learnt that Delhi-resident Faiq was in contact with a Pakistani Instagram user and discussed ways to spread jihadi activities in India," said deputy inspector general of police, Gujarat ATS, Sunil Joshi. During a raid at Shaikh's house in Fatehwadi area of Ahmedabad city, the Anti-Terrorist Squad found a sword and AQIS literature promoting jihad against India for its 'Operation Sindoor' carried out against Pakistan in May, he informed. "The main agenda of these four accused was to attract youth towards AQIS ideology and incite them to uproot democracy in India to establish sharia through violence. We are investigating if they received any funds and what their exact plans were," Joshi noted. Their Instagram posts contained AQIS literature, call for establishing sharia and other such radical statements which had the capacity to create communal hatred, said the IPS officer. The accused had also posted a video of Asim Umar, an Indian who had joined AQIS and later on killed in Afghanistan in 2019, he informed. "The conduct of the accused amounts to a premeditated criminal conspiracy to incite terrorism, promote armed insurrection, and undermine the sovereignty and democratic fabric of India" the DIG said. Actions of the four men associated with AQIS were aimed at radicalizing youth, creating communal disharmony, promoting secessionist and terrorist agendas under the guise of establishing an 'Islamic Khilafat' (caliphate or an Islamic state), Joshi asserted. They were arrested under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act -- an anti-terror law -- and sections 113 (terrorist act), 152 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India) and 196 (promoting enmity between different groups) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. In 2023, four Bangladeshi nationals were arrested from different parts of Ahmedabad city for having links with AQIS, a regional affiliate of international terrorist network Al-Qaida. The Delhi high court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to NewsClick's founder and editor-in-chief Prabir Purkayastha in two cases, including one lodged by the Delhi Police concerning foreign funding, taking note of the "prolonged investigations" by probe agencies. IMAGE: NewsClick editor Prabir Puryakastha (left) arrives at the Delhi police special cell's office, October 3, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo Besides the foreign-funding case, Justice Neena Bansal Krishna granted Purkayastha the relief in a money-laundering case of the Enforcement Directorate. The court said there is nothing on record to suggest that since 2023, Purkayastha was ever called to join the investigations. "The applicant is a respectable man, aged about 75 years, having roots in the society. The evidence is essentially documentary in nature and there is no likelihood of tampering with the evidence or of influencing the witnesses," it said. The court pronounced the order on Purkayastha's pleas that were filed in 2021. Purkayastha was earlier arrested in another case lodged under anti-terror law Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The Supreme Court, on May 24, 2024, declared his arrest invalid in the eyes of law and ordered his release from custody. The apex court said a copy of the written grounds of arrest has to be furnished to the arrested person as a "matter of course and without exception at the earliest" and in this case, the grounds of arrest in writing were not provided to Purkayastha or his counsel before the passing of the remand order. Purkayastha was arrested by the Special Cell of the Delhi Police in the UAPA case on October 3, 2023. In a separate order, the court also granted anticipatory bail to NewsClick director Pranjal Pandey (28) in a case registered by the Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW), saying the evidence is essentially documentary in nature and there is no likelihood of the accused tampering with the evidence or influencing witnesses. While granting anticipatory bail to Purkayastha, the high court said, "Personal liberty is a precious constitutional value and cannot be tampered with casually. The objective behind depriving an individual of his personal liberty must be founded on serious considerations. An accused, as a presumed innocent person, is entitled to present his case and establish his innocence." Regarding the money-laundering case, the court said the allegations against Purkayastha are regarding misusing and siphoning off funds received from foreign companies and violating the rules of the Reserve Bank of India. It noted that the cases were registered in 2020 but even with regard to the predicate offence, the investigations have not been concluded nor any chargesheet has been filed. Granting the relief in the Delhi Police case, the court said the virtue of personal liberty is such that the Constitution protects it through Article 21 and it is not a casual right that can be tampered with, without serious considerations. Justice Krishna also referred to a previous judgment delivered by a coordinate bench of the high court, in which it was held that the object of bail is to secure the attendance of the accused at the trial, take judgment and serve a sentence if the court punishes him with imprisonment, but bail cannot be withheld as a punishment. The court said in the event of arrest, both the accused should be admitted to anticipatory bail on furnishing personal bonds of Rs 25,000 each with one surety of the like amount. It also asked the accused to join the probe as and when called by the investigating officers and not to tamper with the evidence or influence witnesses. In 2021, the high court had granted interim protection from arrest to Purkayastha and Pandey in these cases. The allegations in the FIR lodged by the Delhi Police are that the petitioner company, PPK Newsclick Studio Private Limited, received foreign direct investment (FDI) to the tune of Rs 9.59 crore from Worldwide Media Holdings LLC USA during the financial year 2018-19. It was alleged that the investment was made by greatly overvaluing the shares of the petitioner company to avoid the alleged FDI cap of 26 percent in a digital news website. It was further alleged that more than 45 percent of this investment was diverted or siphoned off for the payment of salary or toward consultancy, rent and other expenses for ulterior motives. Therefore, it is alleged that the company has violated the FDI norm and other laws of the country and caused a loss to the government exchequer. The ED took cognisance of the Delhi Police FIR to launch a money-laundering probe in this instance and conducted searches on the premises of the digital news platform and several other places in connection with the money received from overseas. Glimpses from around the world that will make you smile and cry. Flying Radha IMAGE: Radha Yadav dives for the ball next to England's Emma Lamb during the women's third One Day International at the Riverside ground, Chester-le-Street. Photograph: Ed Sykes/Reuters Gaza's Children are Starving Caution: Graphic content. Viewer discretion is advised. IMAGE: Palestinian boy Mosab Al-Debs, 14, who is malnourished, at the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City. Photograph: Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters Gaza's Hungry Cry Caution: Graphic content. Viewer discretion is advised. IMAGE: A child weeps as Palestinians gather to receive food from a charity kitchen amid the hunger crisis in Gaza. Photograph: Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters Displaced In Deir IMAGE: A displaced Palestinian walks in the aftermath of an Israeli military operation in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip. Photograph: Hatem Khaled/Reuters Immigration's Embrace IMAGE: A child embraces her father after a hearing at a US immigration court in Manhattan. Photograph: David 'Dee' Delgado/Reuters Separated by System IMAGE: Ingrid Mejia, an egg farmworker from Guatemala, who was separated from her three-year-old son after appearing in court on a charge of driving without a license, near Union City, Ohio, USA. Photograph: Carlos Barria/Reuters Ozzy's Final Bow IMAGE: Ozzy Osbourne is seen on a screen as he performs at Black Sabbath's farewell show titled Back to the Beginning at the Villa Park in Birmingham. Photograph: Sachin Ravikumar/Reuters Hollywood Remembers Ozzy IMAGE: Flowers and candles are placed on Ozzy Osbourne's star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Photograph: Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Janvi Spins a Record IMAGE: 17-year-old Janvi Jindal with her Guinness Records certificates as her records get officially confirmed for the most 360-degree rotations on inline skates in 30 seconds (27 spins), fastest slalom (20 cones) on two wheels (8.85 seconds), most one-wheeled 360-degree spins in 30 seconds (42 spins), most one-wheeled 360-degree spins in one minute (72 spins), and most consecutive one-wheeled 360-degree spins (22 spins). Photograph: ANI Photo Nirmalaji Doesn't Mind The Rain IMAGE: While other MPs have aides carrying their brollies, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman eschews such assistance. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo Priyanka Arrives At Parliament IMAGE: An aide accompanies Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as she arrives at the Parliament House complex on the second day of the monsoon session. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo When Rivals Smile IMAGE: TMC MP Mahua Moitra and BJP MP Dr Sambit Patra catch up at the Parliament House complex. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo Rivals Share A Laugh IMAGE: SP MP Akhilesh Yadav and BJP MP Giriraj Singh share a light moment at the Parliament House complex. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo These Ladies Are Protesting For IMAGE: Mid Day meal cooks stage a protest in Patna against the Bihar government, demanding an increase in honorarium and equal pay for equal work. Photograph: ANI Photo What's Mohanji Telling The Muni? IMAGE: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat in conversation with Abhijit Kumar during the Anuvrat Nyas Nidhi Vyakhyan in New Delhi. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff, Anant SalviRediff Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff Amid rising concerns among traders in Karnataka over the issuance of nearly 6,000 GST demand notices based on UPI transaction data, a top tax official has termed the action as within the framework of law. Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: : Kind courtesy SerenityArt and Simon/Pixabay.com and NPCI/wikipedia.org/Creative Commons Traders' bodies have called for a strike over the matter. Speaking to PTI, Meera Suresh Pandit, joint commissioner of commercial taxes, clarified that notices are not final tax demands and the recipients have the right to respond with supporting documentation. "If the reply is convincing or the goods and services are exempted under the GST Act, notices will be dropped," she added. Reacting to the issue of notices sent to traders based on UPI transactions, a number of traders associations in the state have given a call to the traders to boycott UPI transactions. They have also called for a strike on July 25. Responding to the proposed strike and calls to revert to cash-only transactions, Pandit explained in detail the rationale behind the notices. "When a person reaches the threshold limit of Rs 20 lakh for services or Rs 40 lakh for goods, it is mandatory for the person to get registered under the GST Act to take registration and declare his turnover," the officer told PTI. "The registration empowers the trader to collect taxes from the consumers and pay it to the government. These taxes are meant for the government, but when the dealers collect them and fail to remit them, they are treated as unregistered persons, and we issue notices accordingly." The department, she said, cannot individually identify every trader evading registration. Instead, the Services Analysis Wing at the department's head office used reliable sources such as UPI transaction data to flag potential defaulters. "If a person has transacted over Rs 20 lakh for services or Rs 40 lakh for goods in a year through UPI, it indicates that they may be liable to register under GST," Pandit said, adding that notices were based only on preliminary data, not final determinations. The officer said the department is not aware whether the turnover is entirely exempted, partially taxable, or fully taxable. That is why the notice includes a proposal to register and pay applicable taxes, interest, and penalties. "If the turnover is completely exempted from goods or services like tuition fees, the registration is not required. If the reply is convincing, the notice will be dropped and proceedings will close with a nil demand," Pandit clarified. She also addressed doubts prevailing among the trading circles. "Some innocent traders are being carried away, hoping every notice will be withdrawn. Some are being misled. But if they want relief within legal provisions, I request them to come to the department. We will guide them as per the law," the Joint Commissioner said. "Calling for a 'Bandh' will not serve the purpose. They may represent their concerns peacefully," she noted. On concerns that UPI alone doesn't reveal the full turnover, Pandit said, the "UPI transaction is only one indicator. " "There could be other modes of payment like cash, card, or net banking. So, if they are not liable for registration, they must explain and support their claim through written replies or personal hearings." The department, the officer said, is open to engagement and has made extensive efforts to educate traders. "Prior to the rollout of GST in July 2017, we conducted door-to-door awareness programmes, workshops, and released educational videos," she said. "We also have helplines now across offices, and traders are coming forward to seek guidance." "Even if traders fail to respond to the first notice, we send three reminders and conduct a field visit if necessary. Final assessment happens only after considering their response and facts," she said. "We strictly adhere to the principles of natural justice and ensure every opportunity is given. When you buy a plot, you go to the sub-registrar's office without being told. Likewise, traders should know applicable tax laws. Ignorance cannot be an excuse. The department is always there to guide," she said. Trade activist Sajjanraj Mehta raised concerns over the fairness of recent GST notices. He stated that while the Commercial Taxes Department is legally within its powers to use such data, the lack of prior warning, context, and education has created confusion. "Many small traders were unaware that their UPI inflows, often a mix of business and personal transactions, would be treated as undeclared turnover," Mehta told PTI. "The fairness issue lies not in enforcement itself, but in the suddenness and lack of clarity," he added. Mehta stressed that the department should differentiate between exempt and taxable goods before sending notices. Issuing notices without accounting for exempt goods like fruits, vegetables, or unbranded food items shows a lack of nuance, he claimed. "A more tailored, data-informed approach could have avoided unnecessary panic". Mehta acknowledged a growing trend among vendors in Bengaluru and Mysuru to shift away from UPI. "There is visible hesitation, especially in markets and grocery stores. Some vendors are reverting to cash or asking customers to avoid UPI. However, urban areas with tech-savvy customers still show strong digital payment usage," he underlined. According to him, traders are currently seeking clear guidelines on how UPI transactions are treated under GST, a mechanism to contest mismatches or clarify exemptions without immediate penalties and awareness programmes in local languages. Two people were dead and 30 others injured when a truck carrying kanwariyas came in contact with a hanging overhead power line in a village Rajasthan's Alwar district on Wednesday, a police officer said. IMAGE: Kanwariyas return carrying Ganga water during the month of Shravan, in New Delhi, July 21, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The group of kanwariyas and locals were performing a parikrama, or circumambulation, of the Beechganwa village in a DJ truck when the vehicle came in contact with the electric wire. After the parikrama, the group was to head towards a temple. "Two persons have died and around 30 are injured," the officer said, adding that three of the injured are said to be in a critical condition. The deceased were identified as Gopal (22) and Suresh Prajapat (40), both residents of Beechganwa. A video of the incident has surfaced on social media. It shows a group of devotees dancing, before several of them who were walking close to the truck suddenly collapsing to the ground. The electric current from the overhead wire hit several devotees, including women, within seconds. The devotees were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals, where two were declared dead. After the incident, irate locals protested by blocking the Laxmangarh-Mundawar road. They alleged that complaints about the loose hanging power lines were submitted to authorities, but no action was taken. They blamed the electricity department for negligence. "Despite several warnings, the department did not take corrective action," said a villager. The protest, which lasted for about five hours, ended after the villagers and local administration reached at a consensus. Laxmangarh tehsildar Mamta Kumari said she was not aware of any such complaint. However, the administration assured the villagers that proper medical care will be provided to the injured and a detailed investigation will be conducted into the cause of the incident. Beechganwa residents said the locals hold kanwar yatra annually, and the procession had reached the village outskirts on Tuesday night. Forest minister and Alwar city MLA Sanjay Sharma visited the victims at the Alwar government hospital and enquired about their condition. Pakistan and China are working on a proposal to establish a new regional organisation that could potentially replace the now-defunct South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), according to a media report on Monday. IMAGE: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Photograph: @CMShehbaz/X Quoting diplomatic sources familiar with the development, the Express Tribune newspaper reported that talks between Islamabad and Beijing are now at an advanced stage as both sides are convinced that a new organisation is essential for regional integration and connectivity. Citing sources, the paper said that this new organisation could potentially replace the regional bloc SAARC, which comprises India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. A recent trilateral meeting between Pakistan, China and Bangladesh in Kunming, China, was part of those diplomatic manoeuvres, they said, adding that its goal was to invite other South Asian countries, which were part of SAARC, to join the new grouping. However, Bangladesh's interim government had dismissed the idea of any emerging alliance between Dhaka, Beijing and Islamabad, saying the meeting was not political. We are not forming any alliance, foreign affairs adviser M Touhid Hossain had said. According to sources, India would be invited to the new proposed forum, while countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Afghanistan are expected to be part of the grouping. The main purpose of the new organisation is to seek greater regional engagement through enhanced trade and connectivity, the newspaper said. It added that if the proposal is materialised, it would replace the SAARC, which has been suspended for a long time due to the India-Pakistan conflict. Its biennial summits have not taken place since the last one in Kathmandu in 2014. The 2016 SAARC Summit was to be held in Islamabad. But after the terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to prevailing circumstances. The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking removal of Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah for his remarks against Army officer Col Sofiya Qureshi. IMAGE: Madhya Pradesh minister Vijay Shah. Photograph: ANI Photo The petition filed by Congress leader Jaya Thakur said Shah's statement sparks separatist feelings and threatens country's unity. "The statement of the minister that Col. Sofia Quraishi is the sister of the terrorist who carried out the attack at Pahalgam encourages feelings of separatist activities by imputing separatist feeling to anyone who is Muslim, which thereby endangers the sovereignty or unity and integrity of India. That speech is directly violated the oath prescribe under schedule 3 of the Constitution of India," the plea said. The apex court on May 28 ordered closure of proceedings before the Madhya Pradesh High Court against Shah for his remarks, saying it would look into the matter. It asked for a status report from the special investigation team (SIT) constituted by the Madhya Pradesh government in compliance with the top court's earlier order. On May 19, the top court chided Shah and constituted a three-member SIT to probe the FIR lodged against him. Shah came under fire after a video, which was circulated widely, showed him allegedly making objectionable remarks against Col Qureshi, who gained nationwide prominence along with another woman officer, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, during the media briefings on Operation Sindoor. The Madhya Pradesh High Court rebuked Shah for passing "scurrilous" remarks and using "language of the gutters" against Col Qureshi, and ordered police to file an FIR against him on the charge of promoting enmity and hatred. After drawing severe condemnation, Shah expressed regret and said that he respects Col Qureshi more than his sister. In a major development in the probe in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the National Investigation Agency on Wednesday filed a supplementary chargesheet detailing the role of Pakistani-origin Canadian national Tahawwur Hussain Rana in aiding the deadly assault that left over 170 people dead. Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Hussain Rana in NIA custody after extradition from the US. According to the chargesheet, Rana played a crucial role in supporting terrorist David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani-American operative linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, by facilitating his reconnaissance missions across Mumbai. The agency said, "Rana was instrumental in facilitating the reconnaissance operations carried out by David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani-American terrorist linked to Lashkar-e-Tayiba." According to the chargesheet, Rana played a critical role in laying the groundwork for the deadly strikes by establishing a corporate front in Mumbai. The NIA claims that Rana set up the Immigrant Law Centre in Mumbai--an office that posed as a legitimate business but lacked any real commercial activity. Despite the absence of genuine operations or revenue, the office remained operational for over two years, serving solely to support Headley's covert activities. This front allegedly enabled Headley to conduct detailed surveillance of multiple high-profile targets across Mumbai in preparation for the attacks, which killed more than 170 people and shocked the nation. Further investigations suggested that Rana was part of a broader criminal conspiracy that began around 2005, involving co-conspirators based in Pakistan. The stated objective of the conspiracy was to wage war against the Government of India by orchestrating large-scale terror incidents designed to destabilize the country's sovereignty, integrity, and internal security. The NIA alleged that Rana's actions were aimed at striking terror among the Indian population and undermining national interests. As a result, multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act have been pressed against him. After years of legal wrangling, Rana was extradited from the United States to India in early 2025. The US Supreme Court had denied his petition in January, clearing the path for his extradition. On April 10, 2025, he was taken into Indian custody under a Non-Bailable Warrant issued by the Special NIA Court in Delhi. His arrest is considered a major breakthrough in the investigation, which continues to uncover new dimensions of the terror conspiracy. According to the NIA, Rana has made several key disclosures during custodial interrogation, leading to fresh investigative leads. To further validate these statements, mutual legal assistance requests have been sent to the United States seeking corroborative evidence and intelligence. The officials close to the investigation believe that the information obtained through these international channels will be crucial in untangling the wider network of conspirators and gathering actionable proof. Rana faced an array of grave charges, including conspiracy to wage war against India, murder, and multiple counts related to terrorism and forgery. The offences include violations of IPC Sections 120B, 121, 302, 468, and 471, as well as Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA. His extradition followed approval by U.S. authorities and marks a significant milestone in Indo-U.S. counterterrorism cooperation. The NIA has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with further charges and supplementary materials expected to be submitted depending on the results of international information exchange and continued interrogation. The fight against corruption is a vital part of Ukraine's path to EU accession, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky has stressed. "We are closely following the situation in Ukraine. Fighting corruption is a vital part of the EU accession path. Ukraine belongs in Europe and our support goes to its people. But our support has never been and will never be a blank cheque for any actions of the government. I reminded Minister @andrii_sybiha of that today," he said on X on Wednesday. As reported, on July 22, the Verkhovna Rada adopted in its entirety the law "On Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine Regarding the Peculiarities of Pre-Trial Investigation of Criminal Offenses Related to the Disappearance of Persons Missing in Special Circumstances During Martial Law" with 263 votes, with amendments that limited the independence of the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-corruption Prosecutor Office (SAPO). The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, immediately signed the law and sent it to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for signature, while under normal practice this happens after consideration of blocking resolutions submitted by opponents. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signed it on the same day. A number of politicians and public figures, as well as representatives of the European Commission, spoke out categorically against this bill and called on Zelenskyy to veto it. Protest actions against the bill adopted by the Verkhovna Rada were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Rivne on Tuesday evening. India told a United Nations Security Council meeting presided over by Pakistan that there should be a serious cost to nations who foment cross-border terrorism, as it described the neighbouring country as a serial borrower steeped in fanaticism. IMAGE: India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish delivers statement at the UN Security Council high-level open debate. Photograph: @IndiaUNNewYork/X As we debate promoting international peace and security, it is essential to recognise that there are some fundamental principles which need to be universally respected. One of them is zero tolerance for terrorism, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish said. Harish delivered the national statement on Tuesday at the UN Security Council high-level open debate on Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes' held under Pakistan's presidency of the 15-nation Council for July. Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar presided over the open debate that was also addressed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. In his remarks to the debate in his national capacity, Dar raked the issue of Jammu and Kashmir as well as the Indus Waters Treaty. In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, India decided that the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 would be held in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. Turkiye also made a reference to Jammu and Kashmir in its statement at the open debate. Giving a strong response to Dar's remarks, Harish said that the Indian sub-continent offers a stark contrast" in terms of progress, prosperity and development models. On the one hand, there is India, which is a mature democracy, a surging economy and a pluralistic and inclusive society. At the other extreme is Pakistan, steeped in fanaticism and terrorism, and a serial borrower from the IMF (International Monetary Fund)," he said. In May this year, the IMF had approved disbursement of about one billion dollars to Pakistan under Extended Fund Facility (EFF), bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to about USD 2.1 billion. In his statement in the UNSC chamber, Harish spoke about the Pahalgam terror attack for which The Resistance Front, a front for Pakistan-based terror organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba, had claimed responsibility. Harish emphasised that there should be a serious cost to states who violate the spirit of good neighbourliness and international relations by fomenting cross-border terrorism. "It ill behoves a member of the Council to offer homilies while indulging in practices that are unacceptable to the international community, the Indian envoy said. He said that consequent to the gruesome terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 that led to the killing of 26 innocent tourists, and based on the April 25 UNSC statement, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. In the UNSC statement, Council members had underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice. Harish said India's response was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. On achieving its primary objectives, a cessation of military activities was directly concluded at the request of Pakistan, he said. Earlier, Acting US Representative Ambassador Dorothy Shea said at the meeting that in the past three months alone, US leadership delivered "de-escalations" between Israel and Iran, between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, and between India and Pakistan. The United States, under President Trump's leadership, played an important role in encouraging the parties to reach these resolutions, which we applaud and support, Shea said. Harish stressed that in recent decades, the nature of conflicts has transformed, with a "proliferation of non-state actors, often proposed and propped up as proxies by state actors; and cross-border funding, arms trafficking, training of terrorists, and spread of radical ideologies, facilitated by modern digital and communication technologies. He said that on the question of peaceful settlement of disputes, Chapter VI of the UN Charter begins with a recognition that it is the parties to a dispute' who must first of all seek a solution by peaceful means of their own choice. National ownership and consent of parties are central to any efforts to achieve peaceful resolution of conflicts, he said. Harish underlined that there cannot be one standard approach to dispute resolution. The changing circumstances and context also need to be taken into account while considering any such efforts. Harish said that there are growing doubts about the multilateral system, especially the United Nations and serious question marks over the representativeness of the Security Council must be addressed urgently. In this context, India is proud to have facilitated the inclusion of the African Union in the G-20 platform during its Presidency. The continuing UN Security Council impasse also shows the increasing challenges to efficiency and effectiveness of the UN Security Council, he said. Pakistan is currently a non-permanent member of the 15-nation Council for the 2025-26 term. United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed yet again that he stopped the recent "war" between India and Pakistan and that five planes were shot down in the conflict. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that he stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan through trade. Photograph: The White House He also claimed that the conflict between India and Pakistan "was probably going to end up in a nuclear war". "We stopped wars between India and Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda," he said at a reception in the White House with the Congress members. "They shot down five planes and it was back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. I called them and said, 'Listen, no more trade. If you do this, you're not going to be goodThey're both powerful nuclear nations and that would have happened, and who knows where that would have ended up. And I stopped it'," he added. Trump claimed the US took out Iran's entire nuclear capability and also stopped the conflict between Kosovo and Serbia. "And a couple of others that we didn't stop a war, but we stopped what probably could have ended up in a war. We do that on the House as compliments of America. Okay, do you think (former US President Joe) Biden would do that? I don't think so. Do you think he ever heard of any of those countries? I don't think so, Trump said. Trump, who has repeatedly said that he stopped the conflict between India and Pakistan through trade, last Friday said for the first time that five jets were shot down during the fighting. You had India, Pakistan, that was going in fact, planes were being shot out of the air, five, five, four or five. But I think five jets were shot down actuallythat was getting worse and worse, wasn't it? That was looking like it was going to go, these are two serious nuclear countries and they were hitting each other, he had said at the White House in his remarks made during a dinner that he hosted for the Republican senators. Meanwhile, Acting US Representative Ambassador Dorothy Shea said at an open debate in the UN Security Council on Tuesday on Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes' held under Pakistan's presidency of the Council that across the globe, the United States continues to work with parties to disputes, wherever possible, to find peaceful solutions. With Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar presiding over the Council meeting, Shea said that in the past three months alone, we have seen the US leadership deliver de-escalations between Israel and Iran, between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, and between India and Pakistan. The United States, under President Trump's leadership, played an important role in encouraging the parties to reach these resolutions, which we applaud and support, Shea said. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, in his statement in the UNSC chamber spoke about the Pahalgam terror attack for which The Resistance Front, a front for Pakistan-based terror organization Lashkar-e-Tayyiba had claimed responsibility. Harish emphasized that there should be a serious cost to states who violate the spirit of good neighbourliness and international relations by fomenting cross-border terrorism. He said that India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir consequent to the gruesome terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that led to the killing of 26 innocent tourists and based on the April 25 UNSC statement. In the UNSC statement, the Council members had underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of this reprehensible act of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice. Harish emphasised that India's response was focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. On achieving its primary objectives, a cessation of military activities was directly concluded at the request of Pakistan, he said. Since May 10, when Trump announced on social media that India and Pakistan had agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire after a long night of talks mediated by Washington, he has repeated his claim several times on various occasions that he helped settle the tensions and that he told the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours that America will do a lot of trade with them if they stopped the conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, in June, but the US president returned to Washington early. Before departing Kananaskis and wrapping up his first visit to Canada in a decade, Modi had a 35-minute telephonic conversation with Trump in Washington. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had said in a video message from Kananaskis that Modi clearly conveyed to Trump that at no point during the days following Operation Sindoor was there any discussion, at any level, on an India-US trade deal or any proposal for mediation by the US between India and Pakistan. Asserting Prime Minister Modi firmly stated that India does not and will never accept mediation, Misri had said the discussion to cease military action took place directly between India and Pakistan through the existing channels of communication between the two armed forces and it was initiated at Pakistan's request. The US has designated The Resistance Front as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). The State Department said these actions taken by it against The Resistance Front demonstrates the Trump administration's commitment to protecting our national security interests, countering terrorism, and enforcing President Trump's call for justice for the Pahalgam attack. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Partly cloudy skies this morning will give way to occasional showers during the afternoon. High 69F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight A clear sky. Low 44F. Winds light and variable. Photo: https://president.gov.ua/ Ukrainian representatives at talks in Istanbul on Wednesday will insist on the need for an immediate and complete ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. According to him, on Wednesday night, Russian drones attacked energy infrastructure, leaving more than 220,000customers in Sumy region without power. "This morning, we managed to restore most of the supplies. As of now, electricity has almost completely been restored for Sumy region," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram. According to him, all the necessary resources for this have been provided. "And the representatives of Ukraine at the negotiations today in Turkey will again insist on the need for an immediate and complete ceasefire, in particular such strikes on civilian infrastructure," Zelenskyy added. As reported, the Ukrainian delegation arrived in Turkey and began the first bilateral meetings with the Turkish side in Ankara. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a meeting with the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak. Later on Wednesday evening, the Ukrainian and Russian delegations will meet in Istanbul. The Town of Brattleboro partnered with the Brattleboro Food Co-Op to help clean up an encampment under the Elm Street Bridge on Friday, June 16, 2023. With enterprises pouring billions of dollars into generative AI (genAI) initiatives, doubts about future legal exposures are typically ignored. The risks are practically endless. Although enterprises usually do extensive data fine-tuning before deploying large language models (LLMs), the massive underlying database is unknown. The major model makers including OpenAI, Google, AWS, Anthropic, Meta and Microsoft provide no visibility into their training data. That includes how old or out-of-date it is, how reliable it is, source languages and, critically, whether the data violates privacy rules, copyright restrictions, trademarks, patents, or regulatory sensitive data (healthcare data, financial data, PII, payment card details, security credentials, etc.). Even when vendors provide source lists for the data used to train their models, those lists may not include meaningful data. For example, a source might be Visa transaction information. How old? Is it verified? Has it been sufficiently sanitised for compliance? Could the concept of the crime of receiving stolen property where, in some US states, the defendant merely has to have reason to believe that the property may have been stolen apply? Enterprises know that much of the training data in the LLMs they use violates copyright and other rules, but they treat it as a dont ask, dont tell situation. If this explodes in two years, corporations are going to have a hard time convincing a judge or jury that they didnt have a good idea that the underlying data was stolen. There are also the derivative risks. Lets say that someone has figured out a new way of calculating geothermal energy output. What if an LLM maker scraped that information without permission and trained its model on it? And, say, ExxonMobil licensed that model and inadvertently used the information to create a more profitable means of extracting energy that generates US$5 billion in fresh profits? Could the original inventor later sue ExxonMobil for a portion of those profits? This is something I have been thinking about intermittently for the past year or so, said Jason Andersen, a VP/principal analyst for Moor Insights & Strategy. This is going to be a big consideration in the future. As the costs of training and tuning open-source foundation models continue to drop, enterprises would be foolish to leave themselves exposed, especially in this high-stakes regulatory environment. Andersen said this issue is becoming more complicated due to the June court decision regarding Anthropic and fair use. The court in that case ruled that it was legal for Anthropic to train its AI models on published books without the authors permission as long as the company had legally and properly purchased copies of those books. Its a multilevel problem and frankly, the Anthropic case sort of skirts the issue, Andersen said. My musing has been why more companies are not thinking or caring about this. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa will meet with the Chinese president and prime minister in Beijing on July 24 in what is expected to be a tense EU-China summit with the war in Ukraine and a potential transatlantic trade war looming large in the background. Brussels will raise the usual concerns about human rights in Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong with Beijing expected to quickly bat away any form of criticism. Instead, the most heated discussions will likely center around Chinas support for Russias war in Ukraine and what the EU views as unfair Chinese trade practices, which have led to a ballooning deficit in Sino-European trade in favor of Beijing. Briefing the media before the summit, European Union officials underlined that the EU presidents are expected to be direct, open and constructive but are also ready to defend our interest. 50 Years Of Diplomatic Ties The summit was meant to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the bloc, but dont expect too many niceties or concrete deliverables of any kind. Given that both sides are keen to showcase their green credentials, there were hopes in the EU that they would at least agree on a common declaration on the climate, but it is very uncertain if even this will materialize. This stands in sharp contrast to the EU-Japan summit held the day before in Tokyo, where a 24-page declaration covering a broad policy agenda was expected, including progress on bilateral security ties and a rare earths deal. The key meeting to look out for in Beijing is the morning session, when von der Leyen and Costa will have a geo-strategic discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Have The Gloves Come Off Regarding Ukraine? Ukraine will take up a big part of the meeting, which comes just a few weeks after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told European diplomats in Brussels that his country could not accept a Russian defeat in the war. Brussels has long sought not to antagonize China too much on the issue, but the gloves appear to have come off, at least to a certain extent. EU officials now say openly that 80 percent of dual-use items used by Russia in its war effort originate from China. Brussels has also criticized Beijings continued export of components like drone engines to Moscow. China has also been targeted -- both directly and indirectly -- in the latest EU sanctions package on Russia agreed last week. Several Chinese companies and a handful of financial institutions are now blacklisted, with the Chinese Commerce Ministry already criticizing the move. The fact that Brussels now feels confident and can find unanimity to target Beijing in this way is something new. New EU restrictions, such as a ban on refined petroleum products made from Russian crude oil and processed in third countries, are also expected to affect China indirectly. An EU official involved in summit preparations told RFE/RL that no major shift is expected in Beijings no-limits partnership with Moscow, but Brussels hopes for modest steps, such as tighter customs and financial controls on dual-use goods. Trade Deficit The afternoon discussion with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang will focus on the economic relationship and is expected to be equally delicate. The EU and China are each others second biggest trading partners with trade reaching $2.3 billion daily. But its the trade deficit that is irking Brussels. Compared to last year, it has doubled to the current $350 billion, with subsidies, procurement barriers, and export controls cited by the EU as real irritants. No major breakthroughs are expected in Beijing, but EU officials hope China might at least acknowledge the concerns and take steps to stimulate domestic demand or address imbalances. Brussels will also hint at possible reciprocal measures, referencing past actions against Chinese electric vehicles and dairy products. But the question is how far the bloc is really ready to go. It does rely on China for critical minerals and permanent magnets -- items that are essential for pretty much all modern technologies. And, despite the EUs best efforts to strike new trade deals with the likes of Australia, India and Indonesia to de-risk from China, the shortfall will not be covered immediately. Beijing knows this as well. And then there is the delicate issue of EU-US relations. Unless a deal can be found in the coming days, American tariffs of 30 percent will hit the EU on August 1 with Brussels poised to strike back with countermeasures on US products worth billions in a move that will derail transatlantic trade. One EU diplomat told RFE/RL that this was a prospect that has the Chinese rubbing their hands in sheer delight, as Beijing has long sought to drive a wedge between Brussels and Washington. So, expect China in the next few days to very much push the narrative that it, together with Europe, now represents the rules-based international trade order and that the real distorter of commerce and protectionism isnt to be found in Beijing but in Washington. Depending on what is happening with the transatlantic trade talks, the EU might just be tempted by such rhetoric. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has promised a new bill after a new law limiting the independence of two anti-corruption agencies sent protesters into the streets in cities across the country and prompted stern warnings to scrap the legislation from European capitals key to fighting the war against Russia. Officials from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) met with Zelenskyy on July 23 to demand a repealing of the law less than a day after the president signed it. "NABU and SAPO are being deprived of the guarantees that previously allowed them to effectively fulfill their tasks and functions in combating top corruption," the agencies said in a Telegram post on July 23. Zelenskyy said the move to bring the agencies under the control of the Prosecutor-General -- whom the president appoints -- was made to rid them of alleged Russian influence. The agencies' work is seen as essential to Kyiv's path to join the European Union. He later said that the protests against the move were "not falling on deaf ears." "I will propose to the Verkhovna Rada a bill that will be a response that will provide strength to the law enforcement system," Zelenskyy said. "There will be no Russian influence or interference in the activities of law enforcement agencies, and, very importantly, all the norms for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will be in place." Still, NABU and SAPO officials said, the newly adopted legislative changes as they currently stand would significantly limit their independence and "clear and unambiguous steps" are needed to restore the safeguards against governmental interference that they were previously guaranteed. The European Union called the decision to adopt the original bill a "serious step back," while other opponents of the law voiced concern that it represented a reversal after a decade of democratization. Germany said the legal change "hampers Ukraine's way towards the EU," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has asked Zelenskyy to explain the amendments to the anti-corruption agencies law, expressing strong concerns about their potential consequences. "President von der Leyen conveyed her strong concerns about the consequences of the amendments, and she requested the Ukrainian government for explanations," EU spokesman Guillaume Mercier said. Benjamin Haddad, France's European Affairs minister, added on July 23 it was not too late for Ukraine to reverse the decision. "It is not too late to go back on this," Haddad told France Inter radio. "We will be extremely vigilant on the subject." Despite massive air attacks on the capital in recent days, hundreds of Ukrainians protested in central Kyiv, demanding Zelenskyy to veto the bill, saying it had been rushed through and would allow the government to meddle in high-profile corruption cases. "Whats happening now is absolutely irrational. In essence, Ukraine is being dragged 10 years back in terms of its fight against corruption," Kyiv local Dmytro told RFE/RL's Ukrainian service. NABU investigates corruption among state institutions, while the SAPO prosecutes other corruption. Some of the NABU's high-profile investigations since it began its work in 2015 have embarrassed senior officials. The new law, brought forward in parliament by Zelenskyy's Servant of the People Party, made the Prosecutor General the de facto head of SAPO, effectively stripping authority away from the agency's chief. It also allowed the Prosecutor General to unilaterally close cases involving top officials and lets the Prosecutor General reassign cases being investigated by NABU to other agencies. Speaking at the briefing before the Ukrainian media on July 23, General Prosecutor Ruslan Kravchenko claimed the agencies would continue to function as previously envisaged. The prosecutor general has only been granted broader powers and an increased scope of authority, he told a news conference on July 23. The legal changes to the work of NABU and SAPO came after a crackdown on the agencies themselves. On July 21, Ukraines domestic security agency, the SBU, arrested two NABU officials -- one on suspicion of spying for Russia, the other over alleged business ties to Russian entities -- and carried out dozens of searches targeting agency employees. The agencies claimed the operation went far beyond legitimate security concerns, extending to unrelated issues such as years-old traffic violations. Kravchenko said that the suspicions were just the beginning of a broader investigation into Russian efforts to influence NABU. With reporting by Reuters and AFP A poster held by a protester in Kyiv captured the anger and disbelief many Ukrainians are feeling after parliament passed a bill - swiftly signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy - that critics say will curb the independence of two key anti-corruption agencies and badly set back the countrys hard-won progress toward democracy and the rule of law. "This is not the future my brother died for, it read. In just a few words, that message touched on at least a dozen years of Ukraines tumultuous recent history, from the Maidan protests that pushed Moscow-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych from power in 2014 to Russias war against Ukraine, which rages on 41 months after the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. As the country struggles to fend off the Russian invasion, which has killed tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians and uprooted millions of citizens, passage of the law restricting the autonomy of the anti-corruption agencies has, for many, raised a stark and simple question: What are we fighting for? We had two relatively independent institutions that at least created the appearance -- or even the reality -- of checks and balances. If we dismantle them, well slide into a fully controlled state, said Anton, a protester in the southeastern city of Dnipro, not far from the front. I wouldnt want to live in a country like that. A Major Setback? The monthslong Maidan protests, which came to be known as the Revolution of Dignity, began as demonstrations of anger over government corruption, which has plagued Ukraine since independence in 1991 and was seen as getting worse. They swelled to massive proportions after Yanukovych abruptly abandoned plans to sign a trade agreement with the European Union and tightened ties with Russia instead. The Maidan protests and the defense against the Russian onslaught are just the most prominent examples of efforts by Ukrainians to safeguard independence - due to Moscows aggression, still in peril almost 35 years after the Soviet collapse - and to put as much distance as possible between Ukraine and both its Soviet legacy and the backward-looking, deeply unfree country Russia has become. Defenders of the institutions affected by the new law - the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) - say that a working system of independent anti-corruption bodies has been a crucial step in that direction for Ukraine, and that the legislation is a major setback. In essence, Ukraine is being dragged 10 years back in terms of the fight against corruption, Dmytro Kozyatynskiy, a war veteran, said at the protest in Kyiv on July 22, where many of the demonstrators were young people like him. By stripping NABU of its autonomy, they are gradually dismantling everything thats been built up over the years, he said. Im in shock, my friends are in shock. The law strips society of one of the greatest achievements since the Revolution of Dignity -- independent anti-corruption institutions, Transparency International Ukraine said. As the protests that erupted in several cities after its passage show, it also threatens the national unity that has been an indispensable ingredient in Ukraines defense against a country that Russian President Vladimir Putin - and many in the West - expected to come under Moscows thumb within weeks of the start of the full-scale invasion. Just a few days ago Ukrainians were assuring me that whatever complaints they had about Zelenskyy, they understood the need for a united front in wartime. Now it's unclear whether Zelenskyy can still count on national unity -- a scenario the Kremlin has long been hoping for, Lucian Kim, senior Ukraine analyst at the International Crisis Group, wrote on Bluesky. It's a perilous moment for Ukraine, for democracy in Ukraine and for democracy everywhere, Kim wrote. 'Government Arbitrariness' Zelenskyy defended the legislation, which was submitted by his own party, in a nightly address on July 22 and at a meeting with security and anti-corruption agencies on July 23. He contended that it would improve anti-graft efforts and remove Russian influence from the fight against corruption. Later on July 23, however, Zelenskyy said he would soon propose another bill, which he said would guard against Russian interference but would provide for "the independence of anti-corruption institutions." He did not say whether he would seek to undo the law he signed a day earlier. Critics say the legislation plays into Putins hands in ways that could weaken Ukraines defense against the Russian onslaught, not strengthen it, by threatening to undermine unity among Ukrainians and sap support for Kyiv from the West at a crucial juncture. If it ends up jeopardizing Zelenskyys position, that could also be welcomed by the Kremlin: One of the main initial goals of the invasion was to remove the president and replace him with a pro-Russian figure, and Putin has repeatedly sought to cast Zelenskyy as illegitimate. It could also amplify concerns in Washington about Ukrainian corruption at a time when US President Donald Trump has begun to lay a large part of the blame for the lack of progress toward peace on Russia and promised to increase supplies of weapons to Kyiv via Europe. Hitting the streets of cities that Russia has relentlessly targeted with increasingly intense drone and missile attacks, protesters voiced concern that Ukraine was now coming under attack from a new adversary: its own leaders. This is government arbitrariness. We dont want to fight both Russia and our own government, Suzanna, a protester in the western city of Lviv, told RFE/RL. Our country is already under massive external attack, said Darya, also in Lviv. We must not destroy it from within. With reporting by RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service For one group of Ukrainian volunteers, the risk of handling live rockets under fire on the front lines definitely beats a nice, quiet retirement. The Stepovi Vovky, or Steppe Wolves, is a unit not officially recognized by the Ukrainian Army-- but its members, who are all older than 60, are well known to the troops fighting off Russias invasion. Theyre often seen doing a job considered too risky for regular troops: collecting misfired missiles and hauling them off to be repaired and reused. The Wolves get in fast, collect undetonated rockets, and get them back to a secret workshop located somewhere in the Zaporizhzhya region. Were a volunteer unit and we survive only thanks to the support of the people of Ukraine, the units commander, Did, recently told RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service. All our launchers are made by volunteers. Some of the Wolves tried to enlist in the Ukrainian Army but werent allowed to under current law, which forces soldiers to retire at age 60. I went to the military enlistment office, but they didn't even let me in, said Petsa, one of the Wolves who specializes in driving and keeping vehicles running in adverse conditions. They just said, Wait, well call you. Still waiting for that call, he added. Petsa, who is 67, said he wouldnt be put off by official rules, adding hes been assisting troops for years now, practically all that time on the front line. He explained that keeping engines in shape is more than a semi-retirement hobby. Everything has to work so we can pack up in a minute or less and quickly leave the position. Our lives depend on that. In the nearby workshop, the Wolves work out, doing pushups and leg lifts when not taking rockets apart to diagnose whats wrong with them. There was a missile misfire, said another Wolf, Dnipro, as he worked on a recovered rocket recently. So we need to take it apart, remove the warhead, remove the tail, unscrew it, pull out the ignition system, and replace it. Or replace the powder that ignites the missile so it will launch. A law that would allow older soldiers to officially serve is currently advancing through the Ukrainian parliament, a prospect that gives the Wolves encouragement. It could mean they would get access to real weapons, training, and resources, they say. But in the meantime, they plan to keep up the fight with whatever tools and techniques they can muster. As one fired a rocket toward a target on a recent day, he called out, For Kharkiv, for the children! Fire! NABU and SAPO have opened case files on suspicion of former ultimate beneficial owner of PJSC CB PrivatBank Ihor Kolomoisky and five members of the group he organized in misappropriating bank funds worth over UAH 9.2 billion, the NABU press service reports. "The investigation established that in January-March 2015, the ultimate beneficiary of the bank, at that time the head of Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration, developed a plan to seize PrivatBank funds in order to further finance a controlled offshore company and increase own share in the bank's authorized capital. To do this, the bank was artificially obliged to pay the specified controlled company over UAH 9.2 billion under the pretext of allegedly repurchasing its own bonds at an inflated value," the report states. Later, as law enforcement officers established, part of the amount of over UAH 446 million was transferred to the accounts of three related legal entities under the guise of securities purchase and sale transactions, and later to the accounts of two more. "Ultimately, the funds were transferred to the personal account of the ultimate beneficiary of PrivatBank. He disposed of them at his own discretion - he contributed them to the authorized capital of PrivatBank in compliance with the requirements of the National Bank of Ukraine," the NABU noted. Currently, the suspects include the former ultimate beneficial owner of PrivatBank, Ihor Kolomoisky, who was the organizer of the group, as well as the former chairman of the board of PrivatBank, the former deputy head of the direction - director of the bank's interbank dealing department, who was simultaneously a trusted representative of a non-resident company associated with PrivatBank, the former deputy chairwoman of the board of PrivatBank - director of the treasury, the former head of the department for support of interbank operations of the PrivatBank treasury, and the former deputy head of the department for servicing LORO accounts of correspondent banks, non-residents of the PrivatBank head office. The actions of the individuals were qualified under Articles 191, 209, 366 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. "This episode is the fourth in the case of embezzlement of PrivatBank funds. In October last year, NABU and SAPO recognized that detectives had collected enough evidence in three previous episodes to prove the guilt of the suspects and opened the investigation materials. On September 6, 2023, the indictment was sent to court," NABU emphasized. The bureau recalled that earlier, in February 2021, NABU and SAPO informed the former bank owners about suspicion of embezzlement of over UAH 136 million through an insurance payment scheme. Within a month, the suspicions were updated with a new episode, adding to the embezzlement of almost $315 million (about UAH 8.2 billion) through a letter of credit scheme. In September 2022, the list of crimes incriminated to former managers of PrivatBank was supplemented by another embezzlement of UAH 85.2 million. The PrivatBank case is one of the largest in the history of anti-corruption agencies. As reported, earlier, among the accusations of the SBU against the NABU, there was an alleged willingness of individual NABU employees to assist the former owner of PrivatBank, Kolomoisky. Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/ MP, leader of the European Solidarity party Petro Poroshenko claims that the documents on the basis of which, according to the response of Head of the State Financial Monitoring Service Philip Pronin, the decision of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) on sanctions against him was made, repeat the publications of Ukrainian politician and lawyer Andriy Portnov, who was killed in Spain on May 21, the political force said on its website on Wednesday. "Finally, we received a letter from the head of the State Financial Monitoring Service, Mr. Pronin, from whom we were supposed to hear shocking details of the withdrawal of funds abroad by my charitable Foundation, which provided assistance to the Armed Forces of Ukraine... I have already heard everything that is stated in this letter. I have not forgotten the year 2019. A literal copy-paste of the contents of this letter is Portnov's Telegram channel. There is no number, no date in the Financial Monitoring Service's letter. There are online posts of the Law and Business publication," Poroshenko said during a speech at the Supreme Court on Wednesday. In view of this, the politician expressed his belief "that the ideological inspirer, architect, organizer and executor of sanctions against Poroshenko is Mr. Portnov." As reported, Portnov's murder took place in the Madrid suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcon on May 21. He was shot in the back as he was about to get into his car Mercedes parked on the sidewalk. The Spanish National Police have announced a search for three people involved in the murder. The judge investigating Portnov's death has ordered the investigation to remain confidential. Bord na Monas plan to rewet hundreds of acres of bog in County Roscommon and the midlands from this Thursday have been rescheduled as local landowners are now seeking an environmental impact assessment. The semi-state company is being urged to halt its plans to rewet boglands in Mount Dillon, Erenagh and 15 other midland sites until farmers flooding fears are addressed. Dissatisfaction that proper consultation has not taken place was expressed by local farmers and landowners at a public meeting in Ballyleague yesterday evening, Tuesday. There are fears that adjacent lands will flood this winter if exterior drains around the perimeter of the bogs, which are full of silt, are not cleaned out first. Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly explained that Tuesday's public meeting was a constructive one and noted that rewetting due to begin tomorrow, Thursday, will not now take place. Following yesterday's meeting in Ballyleague, a letter is now being sent to Bord na Mona urging that no rewetting takes place until local concerns are addressed and an environmental impact assessment is carried out. Anti-corruption authorities have completed the investigation into the case of the head of the Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (AMCU) Pavlo Kyrylenko and a member of his family; currently, on the instructions of the SAPO prosecutor, NABU detectives have opened the case materials to the defense for review, the SAPO said on Telegram on Wednesday. As reported, in the 2024 declaration, the official did not indicate data on 20 real estate objects and a luxury car, the acquisition of which he is accused of in another criminal proceeding on the fact of illicit enrichment. His actions are qualified under Part 2 of Article 366-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The family member of the official has been charged with aiding and abetting illegal enrichment of over UAH 72 million, i.e. committing a crime under Part 5 of Article 27, Article 368-5 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. As reported, on August 14, 2024, the high-ranking official was notified of suspicion of illegal enrichment of UAH 72 million and declaring false information in criminal proceedings initiated after the publication of a journalistic investigation by Radio Svoboda. According to the reported suspicion, in 2020-2023, while serving as head of the regional state administration, he acquired 21 real estate properties, one luxury car, and registered ownership of them to his wife's relatives. Among the acquired property are 7 apartments in Kyiv and Uzhgorod with a total area of 688.5 sq m, one house near Kyiv with an area of over 220 sq m, 2 garage boxes, 6 car spaces, 3 non-residential premises with a total area of over 190 sq m and a BMW X3 car. At the same time, the legal income of the official and his family members did not allow for such purchases. The difference between the value of the property and the persons legal assets is UAH 72 million. Subsequently, in order to conceal the fact of illegal enrichment, the official did not indicate information about the acquired property in the declarations of the person authorized to perform state functions for 20202023. On July 7, 2025, the indictment in this case was sent to the High Anti-Corruption Court for consideration on the merits. As a native of Roscommon, I disassociate myself from the sentiments voiced at the recent IPAS rally in our county town. The said rally did one good thing: it dispelled the myth that we are an Ireland of the hundred thousand welcomes! Cead Mile Failte how are ye! In the mid- nineteenth century, Ireland had a population estimated between 8-9 million (Cormac O Grada: The Population of Ireland, 1700-1900: a survey). In the census of 1851 the population of Ireland was recorded as 6.5 million. The current population of the Republic of Ireland is 5.5 million based on the census of 2022. Even taking Irish emigration and the inevitable boom-and-bust economic cycles into account since 1851, who would be surprised if the population now might not be close to double the figure for 1851? The Netherlands is approximately the same area as Munster with a population in 2023 of 18 million! The aforementioned 2022 census identified 163,433 vacant houses or apartments countrywide. Yet were expected to believe we live in a full country? Who do the banners refer to? The Filipino nurse who takes care of your family member? The Pakistani doctor you meet in your local surgery? The Afghan asylum seeker who has a right to stay in Ireland while his/her application for refugee status is being deliberated upon? For the record, as recently as September 2024, there were 32, 000 persons living in IPAS accommodation. By contrast, Sudan and Haiti have INTERNALLY displaced populations of 14 million and 1 million respectively. Marchers would have us believe WE have a problem? The said marchers might also benefit from some study of the effects of 19th/20th century colonialism on countries of the global south, particularly African countries, and thus come to the conclusion that there are very good underlying causes for migration from many of these countries. If they grow tired of history they might spend some time studying how the wealthy northern hemispheres 75% of global cumulative carbon emissions contribute to a warming planet to the detriment of poorer southern countries least responsible for such emissions. As long as this latter injustice continues, there will be immigration from south to north. One speaker opined that western values would be undermined by IPAS seekers coming from non-Christian countries. Was the speaker implying that people living here now, holding faiths other than Christian or no faith at all, were undermining our republic? Not so very long ago those values encompassed corporal punishment in schools, the incarceration of women in Magdalen laundries, the forcing of women from the workplace on marriage and illegal adoptions abroad. Im reminded of the 1913 Dublin Lock-out and Jim Larkins comment that It was a poor religion that couldnt stand a fortnights holiday in England, referring to the sending of starving Dublin tenement children for respite with English families. More recently, the almost deafening silence of western values on the genocide of the Palestinian people is shameful. The website gov.ie states: State-owned sites around the country are being developed to provide emergency tented accommodation, prefabricated and modular units as part of its Comprehensive Accommodation Strategy for Internal Protection. The marchers would do this republic a real service if they would turn their undoubted energy to pressurising government into building properly constructed and staffed IPAS centres, government-run on state-owned land and thus rule out the issue of private landlords enriching themselves. Finally, if President Donald J Trump ever turns his attention to the thousands of undocumented Irish in the USA (you think thats an impossibility?), will we see the Tricolours and GET THEM OUT banners at Dublin and Shannon airports telling the newly arriving white immigrants to go back to where they came from? Yours, Jim Waldron, Athleague A Roscommon man has recently been called to the Bar. Strokestown man and community activist, Rory Doyle was delighted to say that he is now a qualified barrister and he thanked everyone for their support. To say its been a hard road getting here would be an understatement, but I wouldnt have made it to this point if it wasnt for the help and support Ive had from my many friends and loved ones, he said. I hope as I go through life, whether it be long or short, that I can live up to the ideals of the profession imparted upon us today by the Chief Justice. It has been a truly moving and inspiring day and I look forward to what the future holds. As Boyle Arts Festival enters the second half of its 10-day celebration of creativity, theres still plenty of time to catch an incredible line-up of music, theatre, literature, comedy, visual art, and family eventsall happening in Boyle. With another four days of inspiring performances, engaging talks, and memorable moments still ahead, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to dive in and soak up the final stretch of this annual celebration. Among the most anticipated events is the arrival of The Irish Tenors, performing in St. Josephs Church on Thursday, July 24th. Celebrating 25 years at the forefront of Celtic music, the trio will bring their world-renowned voices and iconic Irish repertoire to Boyle in what promises to be a stirring and unforgettable performance. With appearances at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House to their name, this is a rare chance to experience Irelands premier musical ambassadors in the heart of Roscommon. Also this week, an evening with Nina Carberry, where the legendary jockey-turned-TV star will sit down with journalist John Mulligan to reflect on her extraordinary career and life beyond the racecourse. For theatre lovers, the Bradan Players present Little Gem by Elaine Murphy on Wednesday, July 23th a poignant and hilarious exploration of three generations of women navigating love, loss, and lifes unexpected twists. The production features award-winning performances and direction, fresh from success at the Roscommon Drama Festival. Fans of literature are in for a treat with The Irish Debuts, a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Una Mannion, featuring exciting new voices Sean Farrell, Maggie Armstrong, and Shane Tivenan. This session, on Thursday, July 24th, offers an inspiring glimpse into the future of Irish writing. Maggie Armstrong will feature on The Irish Debuts panel on Thursday, 24th, chaired by Trinity lecturer and author Dr. Una Mannion. For those seeking laughter, comedian Jarlath Regan brings his hit stand-up show In Bits to Boyle, fresh from a sold-out international tour. Renowned comedian Jarlath Regan brings his latest stand-up show In Bits to Boyle on Thursday, July 24th. And younger audiences (and their grown-ups) are invited to take part in a range of workshops including Maias Purposeful Play for under-6s on Wednesday, 23rd and Felt Flower Making with Lisa Cannon on Thursday 24th. As the festival draws to a close, Saturday, July 26, promises a spectacular finale. Local favourites Lynda, Lizi, and Ceara return for an evening of rich harmonies and feel-good favourites. Neuroscientist Declan Lyons will also explore the mysteries of sleep in a fascinating talk, perfect for curious minds. That same day, audiences can look forward to Inspirational Ireland, a stunning audio-visual performance combining live music, photography, and film, curated by David Knight and performed by Billy Knight, Mossie Martin, and Fiachra Guihen. Then its time to party: ska legends Bad Manners will raise the roof at St. Josephs Hall, followed by a glowing 80s Disco After-Party with DJ John. Expect glitter, big tunes, and the perfect send-off to ten extraordinary days. Bad Manners will raise the roof at St. Josephs Hall on Saturday, July 26th. Tickets for all remaining events are available at boylearts.com and in person at the new Festival Office at The Courthouse Building on The Crescent. Whether youre a lifelong fan or first-time visitor, theres never been a better time to step into the creative spirit of Boyle. The second half of the festival awaitscome be part of it. ED Files FEMA Complaint Against Myntra Over Rs 1,654 Crore FDI Violation Myntra sold all its goods (100%) to Vector, a related company, which breaks the FDI rule that allows only 25% sales to related firms. ED Files FEMA Complaint Against Myntra Latest News: The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Bengaluru Zonal Office, announced on Wednesday that it has filed a complaint under Section 16(3) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) against popular online shopping company M/s. Myntra Designs Private Limited (Myntra), its related companies, and their directors for alleged contravention amounting to Rs 1,654 crore. According to ED, the investigation was launched based on credible information that Myntra and its group companies were engaged in Multi-Brand Retail Trade (MBRT) while claiming to operate as a wholesale cash & carry business, thereby allegedly violating Indias FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) policy. Advertisement The ED press release stated that Myntra Designs Pvt. Ltd. had declared itself as a wholesale cash & carry business and received foreign direct investment to the tune of Rs 1,654,35,08,981. However, the majority of its goods were sold to M/s. Vector E-Commerce Pvt. Ltd., a related company, which in turn sold the goods in retail directly to consumers. M/s. Vector E-Commerce Pvt. Ltd. and M/s. Myntra Designs Pvt. Ltd. are related parties and belong to the same group of companies, the ED said. The agency added, Vector E-Commerce Pvt. Ltd. was created and used as a corporate entity to convert a business-to-customer (B2C) transaction into a business-to-business (B2B) transaction, followed by a B2C transaction, in order to bypass FDI restrictions on multi-brand retail. Advertisement Further, the ED found that Myntra was effectively conducting multi-brand retail operations under the disguise of a wholesale model, and failed to meet the conditions required for wholesale cash & carry trading. Specifically, the company made 100% of its sales to a related group company, which violates FDI policy amendments dated April 1, 2010, and October 1, 2010, which allow only 25% sales to group companies. The ED concluded that Myntra Designs Pvt. Ltd. and others had contravened Section 6(3)(b) of FEMA, 1999, along with the provisions of the Consolidated FDI Policy dated April 1, 2010, and October 1, 2010, to the extent of Rs 1,654.35 crore. As a result, a formal complaint has been filed before the Adjudicating Authority under FEMA. Advertisement In Short: ED vs Myntra Whats the Issue? The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a legal complaint against Myntra for breaking foreign investment rules. Myntra said it was doing wholesale business (which allows 100% foreign investment). But in reality, it was selling to customers through another company (Vector) which is retail, and has restrictions. Myntra sold all its goods (100%) to Vector, a related company, which breaks the FDI rule that allows only 25% sales to related firms. Because of this, ED says Myntra wrongly used foreign money worth Rs 1,654 crore, and has filed a case under FEMA law. Advertisement (For more news apart from "ED Files FEMA Complaint Against Myntra Over Rs 1,654 Crore FDI Violation, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Indian Army Rescues Minor Boy from Flooded River in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir "Timely action and seamless coordination ensured safe evacuation. We Serve, We Protect!" Indian Army Rescues Minor Boy from Flooded River in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir Latest News Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir In a commendable rescue operation on Monday, the Indian Army, in coordination with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and divers, successfully saved a minor boy trapped in a flooded river in the Rajouri district. Advertisement The White Knight Corps, under the Indian Armys 16 Corps, shared the update on social media platform X, stating, "Indian Army, SDRF, Police & local divers conducted a coordinated rescue operation to save a minor boy trapped amid rising waters of a flooded river in Rajouri." The post further added, "Timely action and seamless coordination ensured safe evacuation. We Serve, We Protect!" It is currently unclear how the boy became trapped amid the rising waters. Advertisement (For more news apart from Indian Army Rescues Minor Boy from Flooded River in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Lok Sabha to Discuss Operation Sindoor Next Week After Opposition's Persistent Demand The Opposition is demanding answers on why the US President continues to claim credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan Lok Sabha to Discuss Operation Sindoor Next Week After Opposition's Persistent Demand Lok Sabha to Discuss Operation Sindoor Latest News: The longstanding and consistent demand of the Opposition to hold a discussion on Operation Sindoor will be taken up in the Lok Sabha starting July 28, ANI reported citing sources. Advertisement Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to intervene during the discussion, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will respond on behalf of the government, according to ANI. The government has agreed to hold a 16-hour debate in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor early next week, reported PTI. The Rajya Sabha will begin the discussion after it commences in the Lok Sabha. Advertisement These decisions were taken at the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meetings held on July 21 and 23, as per The Indian Express. Operation Sindoor, a strategic military offensive targeting terror facilities in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and across the Pakistan border, was launched on May 7. The operation followed the April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 lives and led to a war-like situation between the two nations. The Opposition is demanding answers on why the US President continues to claim credit for brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, despite Indias repeated denials. They are also questioning why the hostilities ceased so abruptly. Advertisement (For more news apart from Lok Sabha to Discuss Operation Sindoor Next Week After Opposition's Persistent Demand, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) PM Modi on Official Visit to UK and Maldives: Dates, Agenda, and Key Details PM Modi on Official Visit to UK and Maldives Latest News PM Modi on Official Visit to UK and Maldives: Dates, Agenda, and Key Details PM Modi on Official Visit to UK and Maldives Latest News Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a visit to the United Kingdom and the Maldives from July 23 to 26. Advertisement During his visit to the UK, PM Modi is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer. He also looks forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III. In a departure statement issued on the eve of his visit, PM Modi said, "India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health, and people-to-people ties. During my meeting with Prime Minister Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, we will have the opportunity to further enhance our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth, and job creation in both countries." He added, "I also look forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III during the visit." Advertisement Following his UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives at the invitation of President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, to participate in celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the Maldives Independence. "This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. I look forward to my meetings with President Muizzu and other political leadership to advance our joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership and to strengthen our cooperation for peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region," PM Modi said in the statement. He added, "I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighbourhood First Policy." Advertisement Former Foreign Minister of the Maldives, Abdulla Shahid, welcomed the visit, saying, "I am delighted by the PM's visit. The visit goes beyond symbolism as he will be the Guest of Honour for our Independence Day celebrations. This is especially significant given the recent diplomatic strain between Maldives and India caused by the narrative promoted by the current government during the elections." Shahid added, "The hate that was being mongered by the current government, accusing our best friend India of unnecessary things, led to this diplomatic strain. The PM's visit, as Guest of Honour, signals public recognition by the current administration that those narratives were untrue. The Maldivian people are delighted and look forward to welcoming the PM." He further stated, "The relationship between Maldives and India has always shown that India is the first responder. Whenever we dial the international line, India responds first India has never let us down. The increase in aid from the Indian government shows generosity and maturity." Advertisement PM Modis visit comes amid the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began on July 21, drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties for his absence from the session. (For more news apart from Ireland: Indian Man Assaulted, Stripped, and Left Bleeding by 'Racist Gang' Armed with Bladed Knuckles, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab: Amritsar Rural Police Seize 8 Illegal Weapons in Trans-Border Arms Trafficking Crackdown The recovered weapons include five pistols of .30 caliber and three pistols of 9mm caliber Punjab Police Arms Trafficking Crackdown Latest News: Amritsar, July 23: Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the Amritsar Rural Police conducted two separate operationsone of which was a joint operation with the Border Security Force (BSF Punjab)resulting in the seizure of eight illegal firearms from four individuals allegedly involved in trans-border arms trafficking. Advertisement The recovered weapons include five pistols of .30 caliber and three pistols of 9mm caliber, along with their respective magazines. FIRs have been registered at Police Station Gharinda, Amritsar, and further investigation is ongoing to uncover the broader network and linkages associated with this illegal activity. The Punjab Police stated that it remains committed to combating organized crime and ensuring the safety and security of citizens. Advertisement Details of the Arrested Accused: Lakhwinder Singh, resident of Dande, Amritsar Harpreet Singh, resident of Dande, Amritsar Akashdeep Singh, resident of Chabbal, Tarn Taran Gurpreet Singh, resident of Kasel, Tarn Taran (For more news apart from "Amritsar Rural Police Seize 8 Illegal Weapons in Trans-Border Arms Trafficking Crackdown , stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Ireland: Indian Assaulted, Stripped, and Left Bleeding by 'Racist Gang' Armed with Bladed Knuckles "His trousers were pulled down. He was whacked. His head was gashed due to a blade in the knuckles of those animals." Ireland: Indian Man Assaulted, Stripped, and Left Bleeding by 'Racist Gang' Armed with Bladed Knuckles Indian Assaulted in Ireland Latest News: An Indian man in his 40s was assaulted and partially stripped by a group of attackers in Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland, on Saturday after being falsely accused of acting inappropriately around children, the Irish Times reported. Advertisement According to the report, he was severely beaten until passersby intervened and was left bleeding. The incident occurred around 6 in the evening on July 19. He was hospitalized and was released early Sunday morning. Gardai, the countrys law enforcement agency, have launched an investigation into the matter, and it is being probed as a possible hate crime, the report said, citing sources. Advertisement The false accusations of inappropriate behavior around children later spread online, including by prominent far-right and anti-immigrant accounts. Garda sources told the news outlet that there is no truth to the accusations made by the attackers. Some of the attackers are believed to have carried out other attacks on foreign nationals in the Tallaght area in recent days. Advertisement Several such attacks have been carried out in the past months, based on false accusations of inappropriate behavior, the report said. Paul Murphy, a member of the People Before ProfitSolidarity (PBPS) political alliance in Ireland, who serves as a Teachta Dala (TD) for the area, has condemned the assault. Its horrifying to see a vicious attack like this happen in our neighbourhood. Responsibility lies not just with those who perpetrated the violence but also with those who have been spreading racist lies. The community is really shocked and outraged and will stand together against violence, hate and division, Murphy is quoted as saying in the area. Advertisement Earlier this week, Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan said he was aware of instances of foreign nationals being falsely accused of crimes, the report said. Increasingly, you hear of people blaming immigrants for crimes. All I can say to you is: I have asked for the statistics and when you look at the prison population of people convicted of offences, the percentage of immigrants in prison is lower than the percentage of immigrants in society, Jim said. So theres no substance to the suggestion that immigrants are more likely to commit a criminal offence, Jim added. Indian Ambassador to Ireland Akhilesh Mishra called out RTE News for reporting the incident with "alleged assault." "How can an 'alleged' assault cause such horrible injury and bleeding? Aghast at the insensitivity and obfuscation of RTE News! Thank Hon @paulmurphy_TD @gardainfo and Irish people for their sympathy, support to the innocent victim. Hope the perpetrators are brought to justice!" he wrote in a post on X. According to an India Today report, an eyewitness who claimed to have witnessed the incident said the 'racist gang' stole the victims bank cards, phone, shoes, and trousers. The Irish woman whose comments have reportedly gone viral stated that the man was staying with a friend and had arrived in the country just a week ago. "I was driving to my mother-in-law when I saw 13 teenagers, including a woman, rounding up that man. I saw that the man was completely dripped in blood from his head to toes. His entire body was covered in blood," the woman is quoted as saying by India Today. "His trousers were pulled down. He was whacked. His head was gashed due to a blade in the knuckles of those animals. And this attack happened at 6 pm in broad daylight," she alleged. "Four Indian men were stabbed on the face by these teens in the past four days. How many of you knew that or saw it in the news?" she further said. The woman said that the victim pleaded for help; she gave him first aid and a blanket to cover himself and later called the police and an ambulance. She said that the gang left him to die. The man gave me his name, his phone number and the address of his family in India. He also told me why he came to the country. He's been here for a week," she further said. Indian Embassy in Ireland in a post on X, said"Regarding the recent incident of physical attack on an Indian national happened in Tallaght, Dublin, Embassy is in touch with the victim and his family. All the requisite assistances are being offered. Embassy is also in touch with the relevant Irish authorities in this regard. (For more news apart from Ireland: Indian Man Assaulted, Stripped, and Left Bleeding by 'Racist Gang' Armed with Bladed Knuckles, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Russia Monitoring Reported Positioning of U.S. Nuclear Weapons in U.K. Our relevant departments are monitoring developments in this area" Russia Monitoring Reported Positioning of U.S. Nuclear Weapons in U.K. Russia on Tuesday said it was observing an escalation in international tensions and is closely monitoring developments after The Times and The Telegraph newspapers in Britain reported that the United States had positioned nuclear weapons in the United Kingdom for the first time since 2008, Reuters reported. Advertisement We see a line towards the escalation of tensions, towards militarisation, including nuclear militarisation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about the reports, according to the Reuters report. Our relevant departments are monitoring developments in this area and formulating measures to ensure our security against the backdrop of what is happening, he added. (For more news apart from "Russia Monitoring Reported Positioning of U.S. Nuclear Weapons in U.K., stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Photo: https://www.spiegel.de/politik/ The Patriot air defense systems that U.S. President Donald Trump promised to transfer to Ukraine may be transferred to the Ukrainian side no earlier than in eight months, the German publication Spiegel reports. "The rapid delivery of equipment to Ukraine is proving difficult, even after Trump announced last week in the Oval Office in the presence of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte that he would send Ukraine a whole range of weapons, including the Patriots, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy so urgently requested," the publication said. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on Tuesday called the situation "not hopeless," but noted that the prerequisite is "that the countries that have them are ready to transfer them now, so that others can pay for them, and they can get to Ukraine." Since, as it later turned out, the United States' idea is that European allies will transfer the systems from their military stocks and receive a replacement later, moving up the supply chain by the American manufacturer RTX Corporation. "According to government sources, the first system will not be available for at least eight months; then Germany may receive the battery that was originally supposed to go to Switzerland. The delivery of all the others will take even longer," the publication said. It is noted that the foundations were to be laid at a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which Pistorius and his British counterpart John Healey co-chaired on Monday. "We expect NATO to again appeal to the United States and make it clear to the manufacturer of the Patriot systems that countries that transfer their systems must be provided with new systems within a few months," Pistorius said. In addition to Germany, other countries such as Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands have also expressed their willingness to finance the transfer of Patriot systems to Ukraine, Pistorius said. However, "a decision has not yet been made on which country can supply Patriot systems to Ukraine." Overall, the supporting countries want to identify up to five systems that could be transferred to Ukraine. This is an "ambitious initiative," Pistorius said. It is important that "the countries transferring the systems can continue to meet NATO requirements and that there are no security gaps for NATO." Senior military officials from the countries supporting the initiative must now figure out how this can be achieved. According to available information, the meeting will not be chaired by NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, as initially announced, but by German General Markus Laubenthal, Chief of Staff of NATO Headquarters in Mons, Belgium. Their task is to determine which supporting country is most likely to hand over the Patriot systems and under what conditions. The results will then be presented again to ministers. Pistorius said that "a proposal should be put forward that can gain majority support, takes into account the commitments made to NATO and does not endanger our own security." He also made it clear that this may require further concessions from the United States. "We expect NATO to reach out again to the United States and make it clear to the manufacturer of the Patriot systems that the countries that hand over their systems must be supplied with new systems within a few months," Pistorius said. This commitment should also be "unbreakable." He added that he also "held intensive talks with the management of the U.S. manufacturer last week and insisted on further acceleration of production and deliveries." Pistorius has repeatedly made it clear that the Bundeswehr can only transfer additional Patriot systems from its arsenal to Ukraine if Germany immediately receives new systems from the United States. "It's a matter of months, not years," he said. Six to eight months is the maximum period that Germany can handle, he explained in Erding. The most important thing is that Germany can meet its obligations to NATO and "no serious gaps are created that would threaten our security and the security of our allies," Pistorius said. "Its not just about the current operational capabilities of our air defense. It's also about being able to conduct continuous training using Patriot systems, which requires a minimum number of systems," the minister said. Otherwise, the Bundeswehr risks not having enough personnel to operate the additional Patriot systems once they are delivered. The Bundeswehr has ordered eight more Patriot systems from the United States. Of the 12 squadrons it once had, it has already delivered three to Ukraine. Two more are stationed in southeastern Poland to protect Rzeszow airport. At least one system is usually needed for training, which Germany has also provided to Ukrainian soldiers. Canada Marks Guru Nanak Jahaz Remembrance Day to Honor Komagata Maru Passengers The city recognises the Guru Nanak Jahaz passengers' pursuit of dignity, equal opportunity, and justice," Canada Marks Guru Nanak Jahaz Remembrance Day to Honor Komagata Maru Passengers Latest News: The city council of Surrey in British Columbia, Canada, has decided to honour the 352 Indian passengers aboard a Japanese ship named Komagata Maru. This ship arrived in Canada in 1914, but they were not allowed to enter the country. The city declared July 23 as "Guru Nanak Jahaz Remembrance Day." According to a Times of India report citing the councils proclamation, the day was named after Guru Nanak Jahaz and is being observed to mark the 111th anniversary of the ship being forced to return. Advertisement At that time, Canadian authorities claimed that the Indian passengers on the Komagata Maru were sent back because they were suspected of being revolutionaries. However, many believe the real reason for rejecting them was racism and discriminatory immigration laws. Earlier, the City Council of Vancouver had declared May 23 as the Guru Nanak Jahaz (Komagata Maru) Day of Remembrance, as it was on this date that the ship reached Burrard Inlet near Vancouver with 376 Indians, of whom 340 were Sikhs, 24 Muslims, and 12 Hindus. Only 24 of the 376 could prove prior residency and were allowed to enter the country. The ship carrying the passengers, which was denied disembarkation under exclusionary immigration laws, was ultimately forced to depart from Vancouvers Burrard Inlet on July 23, 1914. Advertisement Today, descendants and communities across Canada remember this journey as a courageous stand against colonialism at home, only to be met with discrimination and injustice upon arrival, the proclamation is quoted as saying in the TOI report. The city recognises the Guru Nanak Jahaz passengers pursuit of dignity, equal opportunity, and justice, which faced discrimination under the Continuous Journey law. Their legacy stands as a continuous inspiration to fight against injustice, said the proclamation. Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, has one of the largest Sikh populations outside India. As of the 2021 Canadian Census, Surrey is home to approximately 154,415 Sikhs, making up about 27.4% of the city's total population. Advertisement (For more news apart from "Canada Marks Guru Nanak Jahaz Remembrance Day to Honor Komagata Maru Passengers, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Romanian Foreign Minister pays visit to Chisinau Romania reiterates its firm support for the neighboring Republic of Moldova. Oana Toiu and Maia Sandu (photo: mae.ro) Bogdan Matei, 23.07.2025, 14:00 Formed on part of the eastern Romanian territories annexed by the Stalins Soviet Union in the summer of 1940, the current Republic of Moldova proclaimed its independence from Moscow on August 27, 1991. On the same day, Romania became the first country in the world to recognize the new state. Subsequently, Bucharest was the most consistent and energetic supporter of Chisinau, in terms of both resistance to Russian interference and, in recent years, in the process of European integration. Visits at the beginning of a mandate to the neighboring republic have been, for decades, a custom for Romanian presidents, prime ministers and foreign ministers. On Tuesday, it was the turn of the new head of diplomacy in Bucharest, Oana Toiu, to pay an official visit to Chisinau, where she was received by the Moldovan President Maia Sandu and had meetings with Prime Minister Dorin Recean, her counterpart Mihai Popsoi and the Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu. The agenda of the talks focused on the process of Chisinaus accession to the European Union, the progress of bilateral cooperation projects in the field of energy and infrastructure, the consolidation of the stability and resilience of the Republic of Moldova, as well as trade ties between the two states. Another topic was the improvement of the border crossing infrastructure. According to Radio Romania correspondents, Minister Oana Toiu reiterated the firm commitment of President Nicusor Dan, Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and the entire Government in Bucharest to support the authorities in Chisinau in the European integration process. I am honored to be in a place so connected to Romania, with multiple common ties. We are united by the same language, a common history and traditions and, above all, a common future in the European Union, Oana Toiu told Minister Mihai Popsoi. The latter said, in turn, that the visit confirms the solid and truly special bond between the two states. Our relations are based on a solid strategic dialogue and an ambitious agenda for the future, oriented towards strengthening bilateral cooperation, economic development and European integration. Romanias multidimensional support is vital in the transformation and European integration of the Republic of Moldova the head of the Moldovan diplomacy also said. Parliamentary elections in Moldova are due on September 28 and are seen as vital not only from a political perspective, but also from a geopolitical one. After a government with mixed results, the popularity of the current pro-Western administration has visibly eroded and the alternative, represented by the pro-Russian political groups, could cancel years of efforts on the path to Europe. (EE) Coca-Cola (COKE) confirmed Tuesday that it will launch a new version of its signature soda made with U.S.-grown cane sugar, expanding its product lineup this fall. The move follows President Donald Trump's recent claim on social media that he convinced the company to replace high-fructose corn syrup. The company clarified that its classic formula would remain unchanged and continue using corn syrup. Instead, the cane sugar version will serve as an additional option for consumers. "This new offering is designed to complement our core portfolio and provide more choices across occasions and preferences," Coca-Cola said in its earnings statement. CEO James Quincey told analysts the company already incorporates cane sugar in several U.S. beverages, including lemonade and coffee. "We're leveraging the full range of sweetening options where consumer preferences call for it," he said. The announcement comes amid renewed criticism of high-fructose corn syrup, with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. labeling it a driver of obesity and diabetes. Nutrition experts, however, argue that the risks stem from excessive sugar consumption overall, regardless of type. "The priority should be reducing total sugar intake, not just swapping sweeteners," said Eva Greenthal of the Center for Science in the Public Interest. While rival PepsiCo is not changing its core cola formula, it has introduced cane sugar in its prebiotic soda and Poppi brand. CEO Ramon Laguarta recently highlighted that U.S. sugar prices remain a barrier to broader adoption, hinting at the need for agricultural policy reform. Coca-Cola's cane sugar variant, often compared to "Mexican Coke," aims to tap into consumer nostalgia and premium preferences without altering the original recipe that has defined the brand for decades. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Security researchers at Microsoft and Google's Mandiant unit have confirmed that multiple China-backed hacking groups are actively exploiting a severe zero-day vulnerability in self-hosted Microsoft SharePoint servers. The flaw, discovered last weekend, enables attackers to steal private keys, deploy malware remotely, and gain deep access to sensitive data across corporate networks. Microsoft has attributed the attacks to three China-linked groups Linen Typhoon, Violet Typhoon, and Storm-2603. Linen Typhoon specializes in intellectual property theft, while Violet Typhoon focuses on espionage. Storm-2603, which remains less understood, has previously been tied to ransomware operations. Evidence shows the vulnerability has been exploited since July 7. "This is a rapidly evolving situation," said Charles Carmakal, CTO of Mandiant, noting that multiple actors are now using the exploit and more could follow. Preliminary assessments indicate that more than 100 organizations have already been compromised, including U.S. federal agencies and major enterprises worldwide. Microsoft has released security patches for all affected versions and is coordinating with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Department of Defense to contain the threat. However, experts warn that any organization running on-premises SharePoint should assume potential compromise and perform urgent forensic reviews. China has denied involvement, reiterating its opposition to all forms of cyberattacks. Still, the campaign echoes the 2021 "Hafnium" Exchange Server breach, highlighting persistent risks from state-sponsored actors. The incident has renewed scrutiny of Microsoft's on-premises security and the broader resilience of U.S. government and corporate systems. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The United States has withdrawn from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO. The State Department said the U.S. Government has informed UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay of its decision to withdraw from the UN cultural agency saying that the continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States. It alleged that UNESCO works to advance divisive social and cultural causes and maintains an outsized focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with the America First foreign policy. "UNESCO's decision to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a Member State is highly problematic, contrary to U.S. policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization", it noted. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said continued U.S. participation in international organizations will focus on advancing American interests with clarity and conviction. U.S. withdrawal will take effect on December 31, 2026. The United States will remain a full member of UNESCO until that time. During the first term of President Donald Trump, the U.S. had withdrawn from UNESCO in 2017, but rejoined when Joe Bien succeeded him. UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay deeply regretted Trump's decision. "This decision contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism, and may affect first and foremost our many partners in the United States of America communities seeking site inscription on the World Heritage List, Creative City status, and University Chairs," he said in a statement. He noted that while the U.S. contribution has decreased to 8 percent of UNESCO'S total budget, the Organization is better protected in financial terms, with the steady support of a large number of Member States and private contributors. Azoulay said UNESCO will continue to work hand in hand with all of ITS American partners in the private sector, academia and non-profit organizations, and will pursue political dialogue with the U.S. administration and Congress. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Bay Street looks headed for a firm start Wednesday morning, tracking positive global cues amid rising prospects of several nations striking trade deals with the U.S. before the August 1 deadline. Rogers Communications Inc. (RCI.A.TO) reported adjusted net income of C$ 632 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared with C$ 623 million in the year-ago quarter. Suncor Energy, West Fraser Timber, Waste Connections, Whitecap Resources and First Quantum Minerals are scheduled to announce their quarterly results today. On the economic front, data on new housing prices is due at 8:30 AM ET. U.S. President Donald Trump announced trade deals with Japan and Philippines. "We have Europe coming in tomorrow, and the next day, we have some other ones coming in," he said late on Tuesday, without specifying details. Canadian stocks climbed higher on Tuesday thanks to recent strong economic data. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index turned weak after a firm start, but recovered to settle with a gain of 47.43 points or 0.17% at 27,364.43. Asian stocks settled mostly higher on Wednesday amid easing trade concerns after Trump announced trade agreements with Japan and Philippines. The "largest ever" U.S. trade deal with Japan features a 15 percent tariff on Japanese exports and includes a commitment from Tokyo to invest $550 billion in the United States and open its for American vehicles, rice, and other agricultural goods. Trump claimed the U.S. would receive 90 percent of profits from the agreement and that the pact could generate hundreds of thousands of American jobs. The major European markets are up firmly in positive territory today amid rising prospects of the EU clinching a trade deal with the U.S. ahead of the August 1 deadline. In commodities trading, West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures are down $1.34 or 2.02% at $64.87 a barrel. Gold futures are down $9.00 or 027% at $3,434.80 an ounce, while Silver futures are up $0.175 or 0.44% at $39.730 an ounce. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Five Nevada men, including a German citizen, were sentenced to terms of up to 84 months in prison for running Jetflicks, one of the largest illegal television streaming services in the United States. "The defendants operated Jetflicks, an illegal paid streaming service that made available more television episodes than any licensed streaming service on the market," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. This scheme generated millions of dollars in criminal profits, and hurt thousands of U.S. companies and individuals who owned the copyrights to these shows but never received a penny in compensation from Jetflicks. After a 14-day trial that ended in June 2024, a federal jury in the District of Nevada convicted Kristopher Lee Dallmann, 42; Peter H. Huber, 67; Jared Edward Jaurequi, also known as Jared Edwards, 44; Felipe Garcia, 43; and Douglas M. Courson, 65, all of Las Vegas, of conspiracy to commit copyright infringement. The jury also convicted Dallmann of criminal copyright infringement by distribution, criminal copyright infringement by public performance, and money laundering. Subsequently, the court sentenced Dallmann to 84 months in prison; Huber to 18 months in prison; Jaurequi to time served (almost 5 months in prison), 180 days of home confinement, and 500 hours of community service; Garcia to three years probation with 49 days in prison and 1000 hours of community service; and Courson to three years probation with 48 days in prison. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Political News Blue Gold Limited (BGL), a gold development and company, Wednesday said it has signed a non-binding term sheet with FGR Bogoso Prestea Limited to acquire 90% of the Mampon Gold and Copper Mine, located at Ashanti Gold Belt in Ghana. As per the non-binding term sheet, Blue Gold would acquire 90% stake in a Ghana-based company to which the Mampon mining lease would be transferred, with the remaining 10% held by the Government of Ghana. Initially, Blue Gold would issue shares worth about $26.25 million, based on $35 per share. Additionally, for every ounce of confirmed gold, Blue Gold will pay up to $45 per ounce, capped at 6 million ounces, and for every ton of confirmed copper, it will pay up to $55 per ton, capped at 4 million tons. Andrew Cavaghan, CEO of Blue Gold Limited, stated, "The Mampon Gold Mine would be an exceptional fit for our strategy. With high-grade reserves, room for significant drilling expansion, and its location in a world-class gold district, we believe Mampon represents a near-term value driver for Blue Gold. Importantly, the transaction structure aligns shareholder value with confirmed resource growth, representing an efficient use of capital." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The Canadian market hit a fresh record high Wednesday morning, and amid selective buying, remains in positive territory around noon, thanks to rising optimism about several nations striking trade deals with the U.S. before the August 1 deadline. Prospects of trade deals between U.S. and several countries have increased after U.S. President Donald Trump announced trade deals with Japan and the Philippines. The "largest ever" U.S. trade deal with Japan features a 15 percent tariff on Japanese exports and includes a commitment from Tokyo to invest $550 billion in the United States and open its for American vehicles, rice, and other agricultural goods. Energy, and financials stocks are finding fairly good support. A few stocks from utilities, consumer discretionary and healthcare sectors are also up in positive territory with notable gains. Industrials are a bit weak. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index, which climbed to 27,4672.27, a new high, was up 81.72 points or 0.3% at 27,446.15 at noon. Terravest Capital is up 2.3%, topping the list of gainers in the Energy Index. Advantage Oil & Gas, Enerflex, Cenovus Energy, Paramount Resources, Athabasca Oil Corp and Suncor Energy are gaining 1.3 to 2%. Celestica, up nearly 7%, is the top gainer in the technology section. Computer Modelling Group is up 1.85%, while Tecsys, Open Text Corp., BlackBerry and Kinaxis are gaining 1.2 to 1.6%. Among financials, Brookfield Asset Management is up 2.5% and Brookfield Corporation is up nearly 2%. Manulife Financial, Onex Corp, Igm Financial, Power Corporation of Canada and Trisura Group are up 1.3 to 1.75%. Capital Power Corp (up 7%), TransAlta Corp (up 2.7%), Bausch Health Companies (up 1.2%), Gildan Activewear (up 1.6%), Linamar Corp (up 1.5%) and Magna International (up 1.4%) are some of the other notable gainers. Orla Mining and Canadian National Railway are down 4.7% and 4.2%, respectively. Novagold is down 2.3%, while Torex Gold Resources, Iamgold Corp, Centerra Gold, New Gold, Shopify, Wesdome Gold Mines and Lundin Gold are down 1.7 to 2.3%. In economic news, data from Statistics Canada showed new home prices in Canada fell 0.2% in June, marking the third consecutive monthly decline. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Photo: Pixabay The Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern about the new law limiting the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). "The new law limiting the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions is a cause for concern. Rule of law reforms are the foundation of Ukraine's path to the EU and support for citizens' trust in state institutions. We continue to work with Ukraine on the necessary EU reforms," a message posted on X reads. A patient in South Carolina has died after being infected by a rare brain-eating amoeba, according to Prisma Health Children's Hospital-Midlands. The infection, called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), is caused by an organism known as Naegleria fowleri. Even though the hospital did not release any specific details of the deceased, the state officials believe that the patient was likely exposed to the amoeba while in Lake Murray. This is the first known case in South Carolina since 2016. Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the hospital, said these infections are extremely serious, and most people in the U.S. who get PAM do not survive. According to the CDC, PAM happens when water containing the amoeba enters the nose and reaches the brain. Fewer than 10 people get infected each year in the U.S., but nearly all of them die. The CDC says infections usually happen after swimming in warm freshwater lakes or rivers, especially during long hot periods when the water gets warmer and levels drop. The amoeba thrives in these conditions. Early symptoms of PAM include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. As the infection worsens, it can cause a stiff neck, confusion, trouble concentrating, loss of balance, and hallucinations. The disease progresses quickly, often leading to coma and death within five days, though it can take upto 18 days after symptoms begin. Although Naegleria fowleri is common in warm freshwater, there are steps swimmers can take to protect themselves, such as avoid getting water up the nose by holding the nose or using a nose clip when jumping into water, keep your head above water in hot springs, avoid digging in shallow areas, and always use distilled or boiled water for nasal rinsing. In a separate case earlier this year, a woman in Texas died after using tap water from her RV to rinse her sinuses, which led to an infection from the same amoeba. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Canadian stocks rose on Wednesday, tracking positive cues on the tariff front as US confirmed major trade deals with Japan and the Philippines. Opening just below yesterday's close, the benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index swung today for the most part when it reached an intra-day high of 27,462.75 by mid-afternoon. Travelling lower from there, it finally settled at a fresh record high of 27,416.41, up by 51.98 (or 0.19%). US President Donald Trump announced a trade pact between the US and Japan under which Japanese imports will face 15% tariff against the earlier said 25%. As Trump also confirmed a tariff framework done with Philippines, with the August 1 deadline for "reciprocal tariff" suspension period nearing, the news raised expectations of similar deals, sooner or later. In addition, Trump stated that a deal with EU could materialize soon. With around 75% of the country's exports going to the US, Canadian export sectors today reverberated with this development. Trump has already imposed a blanket 25% tariff on imports of certain Canadian goods as well as a 50% tariff on aluminium and steel imports. As of now, Canadian imports to the US will suffer 35% tax if both countries do not reach a deal before the deadline. Canada-US Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc will be in Washington this week to steer the talks. However, PM Mark Carney has stated that the country is pursuing only a deal that would serve the interest of Canadians and his government would not sign a deal ignoring what it costs to the Canadian . Today, the data released by Statistics Canada revealed that new home prices in Canada fell 0.2% in June, marking the third consecutive monthly decline. Bank of Canada is likely to keep the borrowing costs untouched based on this report as well as last week's decent economic data. Major sectors that gained in today's trading were Energy (1.12%), Consumer Discretionary (1.03%), IT (0.95%), and Communication Services (0.79%). Among the individual stocks, Magna International Inc (3.62%), Brp Inc (3.42%), Linamar Corp (3.16%), and Celestica Inc (7.52%) were the prominent gainers. Major sectors that lost in today's trading were Real Estate (0.08%), Consumer Staples (0.48%), Materials (0.54%), and Industrials (0.62%). Among the individual stocks, Orla Mining Inc (6.53%), Novagold Res Inc (5.53%), Canadian National Railway (4.09%), and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd (1.31%) were the notable losers. Capital Power Corp (5.18%) and Baytex Energy Corp (4.80%) were among the prime market-moving stocks today. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Honda Activa once again led the pack in June 2025 while TVS Jupiter sales surged considerably In June 2025, motorcycle sales saw a slight improvement; however, top 10 scooter sales experienced a significant decline of 8.69%. Honda Activa and its 125cc counterpart maintained a leading position with a market share of 38.81%. It was followed closely by TVS Jupiter and Suzuki Access. In the electric scooter segment, Bajaj Chetak reported positive sales, while Ola S1 faced a substantial decrease in demand. Top 10 Scooter Sales June 2025 YoY Comparison Scooters in the top 10 list accounted for 4,72,205 unit sales last month, an 8.69% YoY decline from 5,17,126 units sold in June 2024. This was a steep 44,921 unit dip in volumes. When assessing scooter sales on a MoM basis, it was also a de-growth from 5,49,157 units sold in May 2025. Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter and Suzuki Access commanded the top three spots. These models are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and premium features, making them popular among buyers in the country. Honda Activa was once again in a No.1 position even as sales declined by 21.47%. Activa sales stood at 1,83,265 units last month, down from 2,33,376 units to command a 38.81% share on this list. The TVS Jupiter emerged as a strong contender in the scooter segment, securing second position with a significant year-on-year (YoY) sales growth of 49.76%, reaching 1,07,980 units. This marks an increase of 35,880 units compared to the 72,100 units sold in June 2024. In third place was Suzuki Access, which experienced a slight decline in sales by 1.22%, totalling 51,555 unitsjust 637 units less than the 52,192 units sold in June 2024. Bajaj Chetak Posts YoY Growth Honda Dio too saw its sales decline sharply by 25.49% to 24,278 units. In a fifth position, TVS Ntorq sales were down by 17.94% to 22,822 units while there had been 27,812 units sold in the same month last year. Bajaj Chetak has seen a 7.03% YoY growth to 17,864 units. The newly launched Chetak 3503 electric scooter in April 2025, along with the existing Chetak 3501 and Chetak 3502 along with the recently introduced Chetak 3001, has made it Indias best-selling electric scooter in June 2025. Lower down the sales list, Suzuki Burgman has seen a 4.07% YoY growth in sales to 15,733 units, up from 15,118 units to command a 3.33% share on this list. In June 2025, sales of the highly fuel efficient Yamaha Ray dipped 5.99% to 14,274 units. TVS iQube too witnessed weak performance down by 6.35% to 14,244 units while Ola S1 (retail sales) suffered a steep 45.22% YoY decline to 20,190 units from 36,859 units sold in June 2024 when it was the highest selling electric scooter in the country. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has published a resolution on renaming the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine to the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine, the list of its powers contains 570 items, which are set out on 80 pages. According to Resolution No. 903 of July 21, 2025, published on the government website, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the regulations on the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine and liquidated the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources and assigned their functions to the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture. The document states that the successor to the property, rights and obligations of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food and the Ministry of Natural Resources, which are being liquidated, is the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture. The term for creditors to file their claims against the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food and the Ministry of Natural Resources is two months from the date of entry into force of the resolution. The term for the liquidation of the ministries should not exceed six months. The Cabinet of Ministers has formed a commission to liquidate the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food and appointed Bagrat Ahidzhanov, director of the department of the agricultural market, financial instruments and budget policy of the ministry, as its chairman. The commission to liquidate the Ministry of Natural Resources was headed by the state secretary of the ministry, Oleksandr Zadorozhny. The government has obliged the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture to submit proposals for amendments to legislative acts arising from this resolution, and to prepare, together with the Ministry of Finance, proposals for amendments to the law On the State Budget of Ukraine for 2025. Ukrainian parliamentarians will wait for the action plan agreed upon at the meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the leadership of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) and law enforcement agencies in order to ensure that the Verkhovna Rada makes the necessary decisions, says David Arakhamia, chairman of the parliamentary faction of the ruling Servant of the People party. "There is an agreement that a plan of specific measures will be developed that will allow us to remove all the issues that exist and give more real power to the law enforcement and anti-corruption system. We see that there is discontent, we will respond to it. As soon as a general action plan is presented, we in the Verkhovna Rada are ready to politically support it and provide the necessary resources, ensure the necessary solutions," Arakhamia wrote on Telegram on Wednesday following the meeting. He also stated that in the bill No. 12414 adopted by parliament, there is not and never was a single word about the liquidation of NABU, SAPO or NAPC. "Statements about dismantling the anti-corruption infrastructure do not correspond to reality. The law does not affect the infrastructure of NABU and SAPO, this was not even in the plans, NABU continues to work, SAPO continues to work," the head of the faction notes. The MP also claims that during the current convocation of the Verkhovna Rada there has never been any talk of "any attack on the anti-corruption infrastructure." "We would like to remind you that one of the first decisions of this Verkhovna Rada, adopted in turbo mode, was precisely the institutional strengthening of NABU, SAPO, NAPC, and the High Anti-Corruption Court," he said, providing examples of supported bills, which, according to him, strengthened anti-corruption institutions. "We are ready to continue to politically support everything that is necessary for the law enforcement system, and as soon as changes are presented, we will consider them," Arakhamia added. Prosecutor General of Ukraine Ruslan Kravchenko assures that the situation around NABU and SAPO will not have a negative impact on Ukraine's relations with international partners. "I believe that it will not worsen, because everything is transparent and understandable. All institutions continue to work. The Prosecutor General, who coordinates them in accordance with the Constitution, will also transparently, with full responsibility, continue them," he said at a press conference on Wednesday in response to a question from Interfax-Ukraine. Kravchenko said that on Tuesday he, the head of the State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Vasyl Maliuk and Head of the State Bureau of Investigations Oleksiy Sukhachov met with G7 Ambassadors and a representative of the European Union embassy. This meeting, according to him, made it clear to international partners that the pre-trial investigation is being conducted transparently. "We came to the conclusion that the most important thing for them, for the ambassadors, and for us is the rule of law. In other words, we held this meeting and it ended very well. There were no additional remarks from the ambassadors regarding our law enforcement agencies, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), or the Prosecutor General's Office. We agreed that we will continue to cooperate and work together moving forward," he said. Separately, the Prosecutor General said Ukraine continues active international activities for the functioning of a special tribunal on the crime of aggression. He has already held two international meetings on this issue, and another one, with the participation of G7 Ambassadors, is scheduled for August. "We are fully preparing, fulfilling the task of assuming international obligations to harmonize our national legislation with the European Union regarding the launch of the work of a special tribunal in the future," he said. Kravchenko also shared his personal desire to represent Ukraine in a special tribunal. "If there is such an opportunity, I will proudly accept and will not let our state down in presenting this evidence and materials at the tribunal on the accusation of Russia," he said. Earlier, the SBU and the PGO announced the conduct of a joint special operation to neutralize the Kremlin's influence on the NABU. The panel of judges of the Cassation Chamber of the Supreme Court, which is considering the lawsuit of MP, leader of the European Solidarity party Petro Poroshenko to the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding the annulment of the decree on sanctions, decided to request from the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC), the Cabinet of Ministers and the Ministry of Economy all documents related to the decision-making process on the sanctions. As reported on the political force's website on Wednesday, the deadline for submitting documents is August 11. The next court hearing is scheduled for August 19, 2025. "The version reflected in their documents is that the sanctions are preventive. And today we finally heard what this means in plain language, because 'preventive' is difficult. Sanctions should discipline Poroshenko. Do you understand what this means?" lawyer Illia Novikov told journalists. He also said that the grounds for the sanctions were not the alleged multi-billion financial violations that the head of state claimed, but the so-called "coal case" and the Kharkiv Accords. "It is written there that Poroshenko apparently took an active part in, as they meant it, the information and legal legalization of Kharkiv Accords," Novikov said, adding that Financial Monitoring Service has nothing to do with these subjects. As reported, on February 13, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on the NSDC decision of February 12, 2025 On the application of personal special economic and other restrictive measures (sanctions). Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ Ukraine is determined to work for the release of Ukrainians from Russian captivity, the return of children abducted by Russia, the priority of the meeting in Istanbul is the preparation of a meeting of leaders, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "We hope that today's further opportunity at the meeting with the Russian side in Istanbul - the opportunity to take the right steps - will not be lost. We are determined to continue working to free our people from Russian captivity, to return our Ukrainian children, and to achieve a real ceasefire. The priority is to prepare for a meeting of leaders, and our delegation has the necessary force for this - directives for discussing the main issues," Zelenskyy said in an evening address on Wednesday. Earlier it was reported that the Ukrainian delegation arrived in Istanbul for negotiations. At the request of the Ministry of Defense and with the support of the Ukrnafta state-owned company the Return Alive charitable foundation transferred to the Air Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) unique complexes for servicing F-16 aircraft. The Air Forces received two technical hubs for aircraft and aviation weapons and one mission planning complex, the ministry's press service said. "This complex is extremely necessary for the needs of Air Force specialists. The need for such a complex arose due to the extensive system of aircraft basing and the shortage of specialists. The implementation of this project will significantly speed up the process of servicing aircraft and allow us to be more mobile," Deputy Defense Minister Oleksandr Kozenko said. It is noted that stationary complexes are mainly used in the world to check F-16 aircraft and equip them with ammunition. However, due to the enemy's shelling of Ukrainian airfields, ensuring the safety of aviation equipment is becoming increasingly difficult. It is expected that the transferred mobile complexes will solve this problem, as well as make it possible to visit aircraft that have made a forced maneuver or emergency landing. In addition, they should speed up the maintenance process and allow fewer people to be involved in it. The mobile complexes include a mission planning complex a control point for conducting pre-flight briefings and escorting aircraft in the near zone. It includes a module with workplaces for five to seven operators, as well as a residential module with everything necessary for a quality rest for the military including a shower, a kitchen area and a place to sleep. The complex also includes a maintenance complex, which includes a workshop for the preparation and testing of aviation weapons, two vans for transporting and suspending ammunition to the aircraft, and one pickup truck for team movements, daily activities, property logistics, and so on. The cost of the transferred property is UAH 51.355 million. Of this amount, UAH 49.438 million hryvnias was provided by Ukrnafta. "This project for the Fund was the first aimed at working with the F-16. Here we solve two tasks: the first is a mobile command post for planning missions; the second is preparation for the use of aviation weapons. We implemented this unique technical solution together with the domestic defense industry, it is based on real needs in a real war. We will continue to support this track and, if necessary, adapt the developments to other aircraft that Ukraine will receive," Director of Return Alive Taras Chmut said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has given heads of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies two weeks to prepare the necessary legislative changes to optimize work without duplicating functions, said Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. "The President gave us two weeks for meetings, for negotiations ... so that in two weeks we could come to him and say how we will work. What changes are needed so that everyone can work without duplicating functions. We are preparing our proposals that need to be included in the legislation," Klymenko said at a meeting with journalists on Wednesday. The head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs explained: "Why did the President gather? The main thing is the relations between law enforcement agencies. Because there are many opinions, that there are misunderstandings, there are accusations, there is dissatisfaction with something, and he wanted to listen to us, each one. Each one gave his own assessment of the situation that had occurred. The President tried to understand this and listen to everyone, and most importantly - to unite us all." According to the minister, next week, the heads of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies will meet at the Office of the Prosecutor General in the same composition as at the meeting with the president. Courtesy Kalamazoo's inaugural The Aroma Labs is located at 352 S. Kalamazoo Mall . Courtesy The Aroma Labs founder Tanya Thompson says, Ultimately the whole thing is about connection the connection that you can have with yourself about creating something very unique to you. COurtesy Julia Labadie, an Aromatender at The Aroma Labs, shows a range of products that can be produced from the scents. Courtesy A group of women create their own fragrances inside The Aroma Labs location at 352 S. Kalamazoo Mall in downtown Kalamazoo. Courtesy People have been finding their way to The Aroma Labs during dates and as groups. This group of friends is shown in the Detroit location 1435 Farmer St. in the Parkers Alley area of downtown Detroit. Courtesy A woman checks some of the 40 unique fragrance oils that can be mixed and matched at The Aroma Labs. They include bright florals, juicy citruses, cozy spices, and deep, woody scents. Courtesy These are four seasonal scents crafted by The Aroma Labs for the states Pure Michigan campaign. From left, they represent Spring, Fall, Summer and Winter and can be sprayed as body mists, or to add fragrance to rooms or linens. Courtesy Tanya Thompson stands outside of Big Blue, The Aroma Labs large Ford F-550 mobile experience. Courtesy Tanya Thompson, center, is joined by family members and friends in April of 2025 in East Lansing after being named one of the top Women-owned Small Businesses of the Year by the Michigan Small Business Administration. See list of names below story. Investors will have to navigate a raft of risk events on Thursday. Possibly foremost amongst those, due to their likely impact on investor sentiment, will be quarterly results due out from US technology heavyweights Alphabet and Tesla the night before. Against that backdrop, shortly after the start of trading consultancy S&P Global will release the preliminary results of its purchasing managers' surveys for the UK and euro area. The former will come out at 0830 BST and the latter at 0800 BST. Policymakers at the European Central Bank meanwhile will announce their latest rate decision at 1215 BST. There are also likely to be headlines out of Istanbul regarding the third round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, although expectations are low. Also of potentially key importance will be any developments regarding trade talks between the EU and US, although the timing, for better or for worse, is unknown. The deadline for a deal however is not - the 1 August. Thursday 24 July FINALS Iomart Group, IG Group Holdings, Metir, Severfield INTERIMS Centrica, Nokia OYJ, Primary Health Properties, Lloyds Banking Group, Howden Joinery Group, RELX plc, Reach Q1 Wizz Air Holdings TRADING ANNOUNCEMENTS AJ Bell, BT Group, Vodafone Group AGMs Halma, Challenger Energy Group, Firering Strategic Minerals (DI), Inspiration Healthcare Group, DP Poland, Discoverie Group, Aminex (CDI), Cmc Markets, Xtract Resources, Tatton Asset Management, Emmerson NPV, Pennon Group, Beowulf Mining, Tate & Lyle, Fidelity China Special Situations GMs Cobra Resources, Aptamer Group FINAL EX-DIVIDEND DATE SSE, Facilities by ADF, Pennon Group, Bloomsbury Publishing, Celebrus Technologies, Creightons, Telecom Plus, Elixirr International, Touchstar, QinetiQ Group, Calnex Solutions FINAL DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE Fuller Smith & Turner, Sirius Real Estate Ltd. INTERIM EX-DIVIDEND DATE Maven Income & Growth 3 VCT, Invesco Global Equity Income Trust, Bankers Inv Trust, Henderson Far East Income Ltd., Blackrock Income And Growth Investment Trust, International Biotech Trust, Maven Income & Growth VCT, Foresight Solar Fund Limited, Sequoia Economic Infrastructure Income Fund Limited, Synectics, Maven Income and Growth VCT 5, Maven Income & Growth 4 VCT, Aberdeen Asian Income Fund Limited Npv INTERIM DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE Tribal Group QUARTERLY EX-DIVIDEND DATE JPMorgan Claverhouse Inv Trust, Thor Explorations Ltd (DI), M Winkworth, Supermarket Income Reit, Tufton Assets Limited Npv, City of London Inv Trust QUARTERLY PAYMENT DATE Brunner Inv Trust INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC ANNOUNCEMENTS GFK Consumer Confidence (GER) (07:00) Initial Jobless Claims (US) (13:30) Continuing Claims (US) (13:30) New Homes Sales (US) (15:00) The US and Japan have struck a critical trade deal, cutting tariffs on imports and sending shares in Japanese automakers soaring. Under the terms of the deal, tariffs on Japanese cars imported to the US will be cut to 15% from 25%. Levies on other goods, which were due to come into effect from 1 August, will be reduced by same amount. In a social media post late on Tuesday, Donald Trump said: We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. The US president said that under the terms of the agreement, Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs of 15% and would invest at my direction $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which we will receive 90% of the Profits. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Car and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japans critical car sector is one of the countrys most important, and around a quarter of all exports bound for the US market. America imported more than $55bn of vehicles and automotive parts from Japan in 2024, according to Reuters. As at 0715 BST, Honda had surged 11% and Toyota Motor Corp 6%, while the benchmark Nikkei was up 4%. Japans under-pressure prime minister Shigeru Ishiba confirmed that tariff cut, noting: This is the lowest figure to date among countries with trade surpluses in the US. This is precisely the result of my consistent advocacy and strong lobbying of the US since I proposed investment over tariffs to President trump at our White House summit in February. Japan is the largest economy to strike a deal with Washington since Trump first unveiled his swingeing global tariff regime in April. Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, said: Japans trade surplus with the US is roughly 80% car and car parts, meaning this is just sector-specific relief, its macro-relevant. A 15% tariff is still a tax, but its a whole lot better than the economic wrecking ball that was hanging over Tokyo. The deal also hints at potential incentives for Japan to shift more production stateside, a clear play to Trumps reshoring agenda. Min Joo Kang, senior economist, South Korea and Japan, at ING, said: The deal largely aligns with our initial forecasts. Its expected that Japan will increase direct investment in the US, such as LNG projects in Alaska, and boost imports of US goods. But the implementation of a 15% tax on cars without a limit is a surprise. Ongoing uncertainty regarding Japanese politics including reports Ishbia will step down soon and the exclusion of defence spending from the agreement may introduce complexities to the negotiation process. The deal will put more pressure on other major Asian exporters to secure better deals. There are no enemies of Ukraine in the team of US President Donald Trump, Special Representative Keith Kellogg is a key figure, believes the head of the Main Directorate of Defense Intelligence Agency of Ukraine (GUR) Kyrylo Budanov. He stated this in an exclusive interview with Kyivpost, a quote from which was provided by Kellogg on the social network X. "The key point for Ukraine is that there are no enemies of Ukraine in this team. Of course, there are people who, to put it mildly, are skeptical about the assistance that is being provided to us. But there are also those who consider such assistance to be clearly insufficient. In this sense, first of all, we can name US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as well as US Presidential Special Envoy Keith Kellogg. Their position is absolutely clear - assistance to Ukraine is part of US national interests. Therefore, it must continue and increase both quantitatively and qualitatively," Budanov said. According to Budanov, Kellogg supported Ukraine even before the full-scale invasion. "He was the US National Security Advisor during Donald Trump's first term. Even then, he was among the hawks in the Republican Party who advocated a tough stance against Russia and Putin," Budanov recalled. According to him, after his visit to Ukraine, Kellogg took part in events in Germany. "The recent progress in the delivery of air defense systems is largely due to the efforts of the US President's special envoy. Today, he is actively involved in negotiations on Ukraine's defense and peace. Perhaps this is why his work makes Russia so nervous," Budanov added. Answering a question about the prospects of Ukraine's relations with the United States, Budanov said: "I have never lost optimism on this issue. America is our friend. Yes, our relations are not always simple. But in the end we always find a common language. The fact that Keith Kellogg is now the main representative of US interests in ending the war speaks to the correctness of this approach. We are strategic partners. And our cooperation strengthens both countries." Stocks in Europe are bouncing back from the previous day's losses with unexpected announcements of trade deals between the US and several Asian countries lifting hopes for similar deals with the EU and India. "Traders didnt wait for the ink to dry," said Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management. "The moment Trump announced a 15% tariff cap in a freshly minted trade deal with Japancomplete with explicit mention of autosthe market kicked into gear." As of 1201 BST, the Stoxx 600 was advancing 0.96% to 549.59, led by a 3.86% surge in the sector gauge for Autos&Parts. The FTSE Mib was 1.32% higher alongside to 40,687.74. Gains on Germany's Dax on the other hand had ebbed to 0.48% to reach 24,157.85. Overnight, Donald Trump announced a deal for 15% tariffs with Japan, as well as deals with Indonesia and Philippines. Worth noting, US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, said that the current trade truce with China would likely be extended beyond 12 August. Shares of software giant SAP were down 4% after the company warned that it was facing significant headwinds as a result of US dollar weakness and tariff uncertainty. Italian lender UniCredit's shares snapped 4% higher after raising its full-year profit guidance, shelving its proposed takeover of Banco BPM and hiking its capital distributions to shareholders. Interim profits fell sharply at Heathrow despite record passenger numbers, the airport confirmed on Wednesday, as costs mounted. A total of 39.9m passengers used the west London hub Europes busiest in the six months to June end, a record high. Revenues were 1.9% higher at 1.7bn. Heathrow said increased long-haul flying, a 1.4% uptick in retail revenues and robust food and beverage sales had helped offset softer trading in luxury, duty-free and bureaux de change. Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation nudged 0.8% higher to 959m. But pre-tax profits fell sharply, down 37.2% at 203m, after a spike in maintenance costs, employer National Insurance contributions and electricity prices. Overall, adjusted operating costs were 3.2% higher at 765m. Looking to the rest of the year, and Heathrow reiterated is guidance for annual EBITDA of 1.96bn, a 3% fall year-on-year. Heathrow wants to increase capacity and boost passenger numbers through a 10bn, five-year investment programme running from 2027. As part of that, it has asked the Civil Aviation Authority to approve a 17% rise in landing fees, to 33.26 per passenger. The plan has drawn criticism from airlines, however, who argue that Heathrow is already one of the world's most expensive airports. Heathrow said on Wednesday that the plan would improve passenger experience, boost operational resilience and enable airline growth. Thomas Woldbye, chief executive, added: We are delivering on our vision to become an extraordinary airport, fit for the future. We will soon submit our long-term expansion plans to the government, providing the UK with the opportunity to stay competitive, boost jobs and drive nationwide growth. Longer term, and a formal planning application for a long-anticipated third runway is expected to go before Parliament by 2029, with the runway potentially operational by 2035. The government has indicated it will be back the development, despite opposition from environmental groups. Heathrow is owned by a number of consortium of funds, including Frances Ardian, Qatar Investment Authority, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, Singapores GIC and China Investment Corporation. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has warned the Presidents Office of Ukraine that the attack on anti-corruption bodies will affect defense investments in Ukraine and reconstruction financing, and also explained what Kyiv should do to overcome the crisis. This is stated in a corresponding letter addressed to Deputy Head of the Presidents Office Iryna Mudra, quoted by the ezine Ukrainska Pravda on Wednesday morning. In a letter dated July 22, the head of the OECD's anti-corruption department, Julia Fromholz, expressed "deep concern about recent events" related to the adoption of draft law No. 12414, which limits the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). She stated that this law, which came into force shortly after Ukraine received this letter, significantly undermines the independence of Ukraine's specialized anti-corruption bodies. The representative of the organization also predicted that these legislative changes could be regarded by the OECP working group as a weakening of Ukraine's compliance with its obligations. Fromholz stated that in the future this law jeopardizes Ukraine's aspirations to join the OECD. Therefore, she called on Ukraine and the president to veto this bill. "If this letter reaches you after the signing of the bill, we call for further legislative changes to preserve the independence of specialized anti-corruption bodies. I urge you to consider this issue with the utmost seriousness," the document says. The head of the working groups secretariat also warned of the consequences for Ukraine if Kyiv does not take action to correct the problem. "If left unresolved, this will not only jeopardize Ukraine's prospects for joining the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, but also its efforts to join the OECD, but will also undermine its credibility among international partners, including those considering investing in Ukraine's defense sector and its long-term reconstruction," Fromholz said. As reported, on July 22, the Verkhovna Rada adopted by 263 votes in its entirety the law "On Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine Regarding the Peculiarities of Pretrial Investigation of Criminal Offenses Related to the Disappearance of Persons Missing in Special Circumstances During Martial Law" with amendments that limited the independence of the NABU and the SAPO. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, immediately signed the law and sent it to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for signature, while under normal practice this occurs after consideration of blocking resolutions submitted by opponents. On the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed it. A number of politicians and public figures, as well as representatives of the European Commission, spoke out categorically against the bill and called on Zelenskyy to veto it. European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed concern about the Verkhovna Rada's vote on the bill and noted that it was a "serious step backwards". She stressed that "independent bodies such as the NABU and the SAPO are of great importance for Ukraine on its path to the EU." "The rule of law remains at the very heart of the EU accession negotiations," the European Commissioner added. Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka assured Kos that Ukraine's reform agenda and commitments to join the European Union remain fully valid. "There will be no compromises on the fight against corruption - Ukraine takes this responsibility seriously," he assured. On Tuesday evening, protests were held in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Rivne against the bill adopted by the Verkhovna Rada. Felixa Builder Pvt. Ltd., a Chennai-headquartered real estate company known for its expertise in premium plotted development, has officially inaugurated its new branch in Coimbatore, reinforcing its commitment to expanding across Tamil Nadus most promising growth corridors. The Coimbatore branch marks a significant milestone in Felixas growth strategy, enabling the company to bring its curated land development expertise and expand its portfolio with an integrated offering of villas, apartments, and plots to a region thats fast emerging as a preferred investment destination. With a proven track record of delivering successful projects, Felixa aims to replicate its success in Coimbatore through a focused offering of ready-to-build plots in strategically located layouts. Coimbatores real estate market is witnessing a robust shift, driven by infrastructure growth, industrial expansion, and rising investor interest, said Mr. R Ashok Kumar, Managing Director. Additionally, Mr. R. G. Haribabu, Managing Director, further added, Were excited to bring our legacy of trust and development expertise to Coimbatore with a broader mix of villas, apartments, and plotted layouts tailored to todays homebuyers and investors. Felixa Builders strength lies in identifying high-potential micro-markets and transforming raw land into fully developed residential communities, complete with internal roads, drainage, green spaces, and infrastructure provisions. With an emphasis on legal transparency, value appreciation, and investor confidence, the company has earned the trust of over a thousand land buyers in Chennai. Customer satisfaction remains a cornerstone of Felixas success. From seamless property handovers to responsive after-sales support, the company is committed to creating a stress-free and rewarding experience for buyers at every stage of their journey. The new Coimbatore office will function as the regional hub for project launches, sales support, customer service, and channel partner engagement, with upcoming developments set to launch in and around Coimbatore and other rapidly growing suburban pockets. Significantly, the company has laid out an ambitious roadmap to transform the Coimbatore zone into a a3,000 crore turnover market, contributing directly to the regions urban and economic growth. As part of its broader mission, Felixa is targeting a300 crore in company turnover by 2028, backed by robust project pipelines and a scalable, quality-first delivery model. Now entering a new chapter in its journey, Felixa Builder brings to Coimbatore more than just real estate - it brings a vision built on trust, transparency, and tangible long-term growth for families, investors, and the city itself. For more information, please visit www.felixa.in or contact us at +91 89252 33310. Felixa Builder Pvt. Ltd. Old No. 18, New No. 14, First Floor, Door No. 16, Balaraman Road, Adyar, Chennai - 600 020 Email: contact@felixa.in Phone: +91 89252 33310 Management Development Institute Gurgaon (MDI Gurgaon) has received approval from AICTE to include emlyon business school, France, as a new partner for its PGDM-IB program. This addition complements its longstanding partnership with ESCP Business School, which has been associated with the program for several years. On May 23, 2025 MDI Gurgaon signed an agreement with emlyon business school, France that will give students of the Post Graduate Diploma in Management International Business (PGDM-IB) programme a second credential: the Master in Management (MiM) / Programme Grande Ecole awarded by emlyon business school. The arrangement means that, beginning with the 2025-27 cohort, PGDM-IB students can complete part of their studies in France and graduate with both institutions degrees. emlyons MiM is currently ranked 8th worldwide by Financial Times, and the school is among the few business schools holding the 'triple crown' of EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA accreditations. Our students increasingly look for genuinely global learning paths, said Professor Jyotsna, Bhatnagar, Dean Graduate Programs, MDI Gurgaon. This partnership extends the international network we have built over three decades and gives our PGDM-IB students the chance to experience a second academic culture while earning an additional, highly respected degree. Isabelle Huault, Dean and President of the Executive Board emlyon business school, added: This agreement between emlyon and MDI Gurgaon reflects on the convergence of minds and vision of the two institutions, and we aim to deepen this partnership in the realm of further academic and research collaboration(s)". A Broader Global Footprint This new collaboration deepens MDI Gurgaons global portfolio, which already features a long-standing dual-degree pathway with ESCP Business School. The Institute says it remains committed to that relationship while seeking fresh routes for students who aspire to international careers. What Students Can Expect India-UK FTA and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on agenda PM Modi to attend Maldives 60th Independence Day as Guest of Honour Visit reinforces Indias Neighbourhood First and maritime security vision Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-country tour of the United Kingdom and the Maldives from Wednesday, with a view to boosting strategic ties and regional cooperation. The visit's first leg is to the UK on July 23-24, at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This marks Modis fourth visit to the UK, during which both sides will evaluate the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). Key discussions are expected to cover trade, innovation, defence, climate action, healthcare, and education. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the talks will also address regional and global issues of shared interest. A meeting with King Charles III is also likely during the visit. The much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is being negotiated now, is also expected to be a major highlight of the talks. Also Read- Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend World Climate Action Summit in Dubai During the second leg of the tour, Modi will travel to the Maldives on July 25 and 26 at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. This would be his third visit to the Maldives and the first visit by a foreign head of government since President Muizzu took charge. Modi would be visiting the country during the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations on July 26, during which he would be hosted as the Chief Guest. While on the visit, the two leaders are scheduled to discuss the progress of the implementation of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. The visit represents India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, which aims at boosting maritime security as well as regional cooperation. The discussions will centre mainly on infrastructure development, defence cooperation, and enhancing regional economic connectivity. A 17-year-old boy was arrested Monday afternoon in connection to a shooting near the Stonewall National Monument on June 29, according to the NYPD. A Daily News report claims the teenager was arrested on Staten Island. The NYPD said the boy was taken in and charged within the confines of the 6th Precinct at around 4 p.m. Monday. Elsie Hewitt and Pete Davidson attend the Endometriosis Foundation of Americas 13th Annual Blossom Ball at The Pierre Hotel on May 15, 2025 in New York City. Slaven Vlasic | Getty Images STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Pete Davidson is going to be a dad, and he couldnt be more thrilled. During an appearance Tuesday night on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the Staten Island native, 31, lit up when Fallon mentioned the news. Youre about to be a dad, Fallon said. Yeah, Davidson replied, smiling as he gave the cheering audience a thumbs-up. I did it! Davidson added: Its my dream to be a dad so Im so excited. Elsies excited. Im excited to see her be a mom, so were stoked. His 29-year-old girlfriend, model and actress Elsie Hewitt, made the announcement on Instagram last Wednesday with a carousel of photos and videos of the couple, including him with a hand on her stomach, a sonogram image, and a SpongeBob meme that read: One of yall hiding your pregnancy I can feel it. And if that wasnt obvious enough, Hewitt captioned the post: welp now everyone knows we had sex. Davidson, a comedian and actor known for his tenure on Saturday Night Live, has been a recurring face in Hewitts social media posts since they started dating earlier this year. The couple reportedly got together in March and made their red carpet debut two months later at the Endometriosis Foundations Blossom Ball in New York City. Everything else doesnt really matter anymore, Davidson told Fallon. Its nice. This will be the first child for both celebrities. Neither of them has shared the due date or further details. Zach Bryan performs at Festival d'ete de Quebec on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Plains of Abraham in Quebec City. Amy Harris/Invision/AP STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. In a moment that felt like a passing of the torch, Bruce Springsteen made a surprise appearance Sunday night at Zach Bryans sold-out show at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey marking a powerful union between generations of American songwriting, according to CNN.com. Bryan, who has often been hailed as a modern heir to Springsteens storytelling style, introduced The Boss with reverence. One of the greatest men to ever exist, a New Jersey native, Mr. Bruce Springsteen, Bryan said to the crowd. Springsteen joined Bryan and Caleb Followill, of Kings of Leon, onstage to perform his haunting 1982 classic, Atlantic City from the Nebraska" album. Later, Springsteen returned for the encore, adding his gritty vocals to Bryans crowd-favorite Revival. The performance sent shockwaves through social media, with fans sharing video clips of the unexpected collaboration. This isnt the first time the two artists have shared a stage they performed together last August during Bryans show in Philadelphia, the report states. Still, Sundays set held special weight, given the symbolism of performing in Springsteens home state. Bryans career has skyrocketed in recent years, with a style that blends folk and country into something many call the voice of modern Americana. His 2023 self-titled album and 2024s The Great American Bar Scene have both earned critical acclaim and commercial success, further cementing his reputation as a storyteller in the Springsteen tradition. Meanwhile, Springsteens own legacy is getting the Hollywood treatment. The upcoming biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere will explore his early career and the making of Nebraska, with Jeremy Allen White, of televisions The Bear, set to portray him. Sen. Charles Schumer is renewing his push to get Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis the Medal of Honor. This photo from March 31, 2025, shows Schumer, standing alongside local elected officials, hospital leaders, and patients at Silver Lake Specialized Care Center. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The push to recognize U.S. Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, a Staten Island hero, with the nations highest military decoration has received another surge of momentum. Sen. Charles E. Schumer is renewing his push in suggesting Ollis receive the Medal of Honor. The effort comes a few weeks after the Richmond County American Legion told the Advance/SILive.com a resolution advocating Ollis Distinguished Service Cross be upgraded to the highest honor. The New York Democrat penned a letter to Chief of Staff of the Army General Randy A. George on Tuesday, urging the Army to recommend Ollis for the distinction. SSG Michael Ollis was among the best that our nation has to offer, the letter read in part. He is the quintessence of what it means to be American, and his life is a testament to the values of the US Army and the United States of America. As such, I urge you to consider upgrading SSG Olliss Distinguished Service Cross decoration and recommending him for the Medal of Honor. The ultimate sacrifice Ollis, a life-long resident of New Dorp, died in 2013 during a Taliban raid on Forward Operating Base Ghazni in Afghanistan. This photo from Aug. 28, 2014, shows the memorial to Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis on S. Railroad Avenue at the intersection of SSG Michael H. Ollis Way (Burbank Avenue) in Staten Island. (Advance/SILive.com | Maura Grunlund) As noted in Schumers letter, at the time, Ollis, 24, was serving as a squad leader in Bushmaster Company, 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division during his third combat deployment. It was on Aug. 28 that the base came under fire and Ollis mobilized the men under his command to a secure location and without pause or hesitation answered the call to duty and advanced towards the assailants, according to the letter, which was exclusively shared with the Advance/SILive.com. Ollis rallied with coalition forces, among them Polish Officer 2nd Lt. Karol Cierpica, who had already suffered casualties and was engaging the insurgents. It was at this time that Ollis and Cierpica came in contact with a suicide bomber. In an act of heroism, Ollis positioned himself between the bomber and Cierpica, firing upon the target. As explained in the letter, although Ollis was able to effectively drop the attacker, the vest detonated and killed him, but not before he shielded Cierpica from the full blast, saving Cierpicas life. Although the two warfighters had never met before and did not speak the same language, SSG Ollis made the ultimate sacrifice, placing himself in the line of fire to protect his brothers in arms, Schumer stated in the letter. This photo from 2020 shows Linda Ollis holding a photo of her son, Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, in a room dedicated in his honor at their New Dorp home. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) As indicated in the letter, witnesses present at the base that day claim that Ollis sacrifice not only saved Cierpica, but it preserved the lives of more than 40 military and civilian personnel. The push for a Medal of Honor Ollis has since been recognized with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Audie Murphy Medallion, and the Polish Armed Forces Gold Medal that nations highest honor for non-citizens. In 2019, Ollis Silver Star was upgraded to the Distinguished Service Cross. I believe that SSG Olliss steadfast devotion to his fellow soldiers, leadership of the soldiers under his command, and his heroic actions to engage the enemy while placing his own life in jeopardy qualify him to posthumously receive the Medal of Honor, our nations highest military decoration, the letter added. This sentiment is shared by Americans far and wide - from SSG Olliss parents, his commanding officers at the time, and American soldiers who served alongside Michael and witnessed his actions that day, to the Richmond County American Legion which has authored a state resolution advocating for him to receive the Medal of Honor. This photo from 2019 shows the Distinguished Service Cross, the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army. It was awarded posthumously, to the family of Staff Sgt. Michael H. Ollis who earned the award for extraordinary heroism in Afghanistan on August 28, 2013. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) The latest push to upgrade Ollis honor comes years after an initial effort. Back in 2022, Schumer wrote a letter to Gen. James McConville, the chief of staff of the Army at the time, asking the U.S. Department of Defense to recommend Ollis for the Medal of Honor. Should this latest push be ultimately approved by the president, Ollis will become the third Staten Island recipient of the great honor. The Rev. Lt. Vincent R. Capodanno received the Medal of Honor in 1969 for his service during the Vietnam War and Joseph F. Merrell Jr. received the award in 1946 for his service during World War II. Capodanno died in action while ministering to wounded Marines on the battlefield during the Vietnam War. He was 38 years old. There is an ongoing push for Capodanno to be canonized. Merrell was 18 years old when he made a gallant, one-man attack against vastly superior enemy forces near Lohe, Germany, according to his Medal of Honor citation. Merrell sacrificed his own life so that his comrades go on to victory." Staten Islands elected officials want the city Department of Transportation to conduct a structural safety inspection of the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan after the Advance/SILive.com reported that cracks had alarmingly appeared in the floor of the terminals waiting room. Passengers sit in waiting room of the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan, where cracks have been found in the floor. Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance In a bi-partisan letter to DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez led by state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, the officials expressed serious concern about the prominent floor cracks in the passenger waiting area of the Downtown Manhattan terminal. Melina Frattolin, 9, was found dead in a pond in Essex County this weekend. Her dad, Luciano Frattolin, 45, was charged with second-degree murder, police announced Monday, July 21, 2025. Luciano Frattolin's photo is his police mug shot. Courtesy State Police, Essex County Sheriff's Office TICONDEROGA, N.Y. The father of a 9-year-old girl who was found dead after being reported abducted Saturday evening in upstate New York has been charged with her murder, authorities said. Melina Frattolins body was found in the shallow portion of a pond in the town of Ticonderoga in Essex County, troopers said. Her father, Luciano Frattolin, 45, was charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse, a spokesperson for state police said during a news conference Monday morning. Frattolin killed the girl between 7:40 p.m. and 9:12 p.m. Saturday in a wooded area off of State Route 74, State Police wrote in a criminal complaint filed in Ticonderoga Town Court. He hid her body under a log in a waterway, Troopers wrote. He is set to be arraigned in Ticonderoga town court and is being held in the Essex County Jail, troopers said. Melina was originally reported abducted in Lake George on Saturday and last seen in a van near Exit 22 (Lake George Village) on the Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87). Thats about an hour south of where her body was found. On July 11, Luciano Frattolin and Melina both residents of Montreal, Quebec legally entered the United States for a vacation, troopers said. They were expected to return to Canada on Sunday, and Melina was to be returned to her mother in Montreal, where she lived full time, troopers said. Melinas mother and Luciano Frattolin have been estranged since 2019, they said. Melina was seen with her father on video surveillance in Saratoga Springs, troopers said. About an hour later, Melina spoke to her mother on the phone and told her she and her father were driving back to Canada, they said. Troopers said Melinas mother had no concerns for her daughters safety while she was with her father. Her mother knew that he was taking her on a trip to the United States, they said. Melina appeared to be in good health and showed no signs of distress, troopers said. Investigators believe that sometime after her phone call with her mother and before Luciano Frattolin called 911 on Saturday she was killed and her body left in a remote area, where it was later found by law enforcement, they said. Initial reports from Luciano Frattolin of a suspicious white van in the area Melina was reported to have been abducted were also proven to be untrue, troopers said. Troopers said Luciano Frattolin has no criminal history or a history of domestic violence. Luciano Frattolin had called 911 at about 10 p.m. Saturday to report his daughter had been abducted, according to Trooper Stephanie ONeil, a spokesperson for the State Police. An AMBER Alert was issued for Melina at about 1:30 a.m. Sunday. It said the child was taken under circumstances that lead police to believe that they are in imminent danger of serious bodily harm and/or death. The Warren County Sheriffs Office investigated the case before the State Police took over. Law enforcement identified inconsistencies in Luciano Frattolins account of events and the timeline he provided, ONeil said. A state Department of Environmental Conservation officer found Melinas body during a grid search in the Ticonderoga area, according to a news release from James McCartney, the president of the Police Benevolent Association of New York State, the union that represents DEC officers. There is no indication that an abduction occurred, ONeil said, and there is no threat to the public. Troopers are awaiting autopsy reports to determine Melinas cause of death. There is no national law that mandates increased driver license regulations for senior citizens, Getty Images Some rumors just wont die. In July, a widely circulated article claimed that the U.S. Department of Transportation will require people age 70 and older to undergo eye exams, road tests and even yearly cognitive screenings to keep their driver license. For those aged 70-80, stories claimed, seniors will have to renew their licenses every four years; 81-86 will be every two years; and 87-plus will have to renew their license every year and take a mandatory road driving test. The first variations of the story claimed the law would go into effect July 1, newer versions say Aug. 1. None of this is true. There is no national law that mandates increased driver license regulations for senior citizens, something confirmed earlier this year. Myth busting website Snopes also confirmed the rumor was false. Indeed, no reputable news outlet had reported such an announcement... Snopes said. Further, Snopes ran both stories through artificial-intelligence content detectors, which confirmed both were likely the products of AI software. In short, the claim appeared to be made up for the purpose of gaining clicks or views online, it added. State regulations do vary States do have the authority to set requirements and some do mandate seniors to undergo an eye exam before renewing their licenses. Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, District of Columbia, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Washington, West Viriginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming require vision tests for every renewal. Other states only require vision tests once a driver reaches a certain age or at set intervals. Those include: Kyiv, July 31, 2025 The Parkovy Exhibition and Convention Center will host the main professional event of the summer the III Ukraine Investment Congress and the 15th anniversary All-Ukrainian architectural competition Interior of the Year 2025. The main goal of the event is to create a space for gathering knowledge, ideas, trends, and practices in the field of investment, architecture, and urban development. The event is aimed at investors, politicians, builders, developers, representatives of large and medium-sized businesses, banks, international investment programs, architects, designers, urbanists, and analysts. For each of these audiences, the event is a unique opportunity to: see real projects and sources of funding; establish contacts with public and private entities; find partners for strategic projects; obtain first-hand information from leading experts; be part of a professional community that is shaping the future. The main idea behind this year's Congress is to systematize and collect key information from the investment, development, architecture, and design sectors, which will be available for further study, reflection, and analysis by anyone. For three years in a row, we have been creating an open database of materials from speaker abstracts to photo reports and presentations that allows everyone to form their own vision of the processes that are transforming the market. Participants can expect a day of intensive exchange of ideas, real-life case studies, strategic presentations, and live networking in 12 themed halls. Speakers expected to attend include: Igor Guda, founder of Kreator-Bud; Sergey Samusev, conceptualist, construction industry visionary, and founder of HutJet; Vitaliy Kindrativ, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine; Vitaliy Koval, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Oksana Osmachko, Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Andriy Vavrysh, founder of Saga Development, Boris Goldenstein, CEO of ZEZMAN HOLDING, Rostislav Melnik, CEO of RIEL, Vitaliy Melnyk Vice President of UDP, Head of Innovative Parks Development, Oleksandr Lakhionov Founder and CEO of RITM Group, expert in development and investment projects, Mark Kestelboim CEO of WELL-BEING CONTECH, BUDOVA, Igor Didik Co-founder of Dzen Residence and AI Development, Ivan Shchebetun Founder of the development company Unit Development, Andriy Dligach Doctor of Economics, Chairman of Advanter Group, Chairman of the Council of Business Communities for the Modernization of Ukraine. Founder of the international business community BOARD. Main areas of the congress: INVESTMENT Presentation of investment projects for 20252026 New sources of capital for regional construction Mechanisms for institutional investor participation DEVELOPMENT New challenges for developers: regulation, market, demand Spatial planning for the future Transformation of urban infrastructure ARCHITECTURE Interior of the Year 2025 competition: 600+ works by Ukrainian architects Live case presentations Author sessions from renowned studios and designers GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS Participation of representatives of the Government, Ministry of Recovery, DIAM Discussions on investment support instruments and the licensing system CONTENT AND NETWORKING 300+ speakers, 60 exhibition stands, 50 panel sessions Post-congress materials in open access: abstracts, presentations, photo reports, post-releases Formation of long-term partnerships The congress is a tool for strategic focus. We don't just organize an event, we create content. Our approach is to gather the most important information from the market, structure it, and give it back to the community in the form of analytical heritage. This is our responsibility and our strength, comments Ihor Parubskyi, head of Ukraine Investment Congress. The event aims to provide a systematic picture of the transformations taking place in Ukraine's investment ecosystem. The DMNTR platform publishes materials after each event speaker abstracts, presentations, photo reports, post-event releases so that everyone can form their own analytical vision based on reliable and verified sources. Registration and program details are available on the website: www.uic-ua.info Media contacts: Anastasia Konstantinova, Marketing/PR Manager: [email protected] | +38 099 124 65 67 | www.t.me/nk_gogh Organizer: DMNTR Media Group About us DMNTR Media Group is a team with 25 years of experience in organizing professional events for the architecture, construction, and investment audiences. Our key projects include the Ukrainian Construction Congress, Ukraine Investment Congress, All-Ukrainian Interior of the Year competition, Ukraine Urban Awards, and the Creator of the Year architecture and development award. We also publish the leading architecture and design magazine DMNTR and actively develop social media, where we publish insights, news, reports, and photo reports from all our events on a daily basis. Follow us: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ukrainian_building_congress Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/16RUuTVCQ1 Exterior of the new Staten Island Animal Care Center in Charleston on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019. (Advance/SILive.com | Paul Liotta) Advance/SILive.com | Paul Liotta STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The Staten Island Animal Care Center facility on the boroughs South Shore is facing a capacity crisis. Data surrounding the crisis was given to the Advance/SILive.com on Tuesday by an ACC spokesperson, who detailed the dire state the site has found itself in. As of 11:15 a.m. on July 22, there are presently 28 dogs or puppies in a space designed for 24. Keep in mind, however, that the traditional 24 spaces are split between 18 spots for larger dogs and six spots for smaller dogs. Presently, there is only one small dog at the facility, and 27 large dogs. This requires us to put dogs in pop up kennels in various spaces - staff offices, pantry room, meet & greet rooms, etc., the spokesperson said. The situation is even worse for cats and kittens. The Staten Island ACC has 54 in their kennels, which is only designed to hold 32. While rabbits and guinea pigs are taking up six of the 10 spaces available, this area has no ability to be used for other species if needed due to the size of the space, the spokesperson explained. These pets can live in much smaller areas than a dog or a cat. The organization, which serves New York Citys abandoned and relinquished pets is at a breaking point, a written statement said, as it is supporting over 1,000 adoptable animals between its three physical locations, which include the Staten Island site. This is not a decision we take lightly, but we cannot take any more owner surrenders, the statement, posted to its social media accounts, said. We hear it every day: I just dont have time anymore. But your pet doesnt need all your time, just a little effort, a little care, and the chance to stay in the home they love. The ACC will keep its doors open for adoptions, drop-off of animals that require emergency medical care or that pose a public safety risk and those being dropped off by government agencies. We have never had this many animals in our care before. This isnt a drill. This is a crisis, the ACC wrote on social media. We are completely out of space, and more pets arrive every day. Were not crying wolf were crying for help. Rocky is the 1,000th pet to be entered into the ACC system. (Courtesy of the ACC) Courtesy of the ACC The ACCs 1,000th pet was Rocky: a surrender who lived with his family for seven years. He is estimated to be between 10 and 13 years old. He came into the shelters care on July 17. The Staten Island branch is located at 3139 Veterans Road West in Charleston, in addition to locations in Manhattan and Queens. The ACC is actively looking for new fosters during this time of crisis. If you or someone you know is interested, go to nycacc.org. The organization maintains lists of dogs and cats who are at-risk of euthanasia if they are not placed in a foster home or adopted before a specific time. It looks like the two ex-presidents arent getting along so well anymore. Former President Barack Obama pushed back hard after President Donald Trump accused him of treason. The two men had set tongues wagging when they were seen laughing and chatting together at the funeral service for former President Jimmy Carter in January. But Trump without proof on Tuesday accused Obama of treason with regard to the 2016 presidential election, ABC News reported. They tried to rig the election, and they got caught, Trump told reporters. And there should be very severe consequences for that. In responding to Trumps broadside, an Obama spokesperson labeled the accusation outrageous, bizarre, ridiculous and weak. The spokesperson said that the former president would not normally dignify the constant nonsense from the White House with a response, but that the election claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, the statement said. Trumps comments come after Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard submitted a criminal referral to the Department of Justice threatening the Obama administration. Trumps accusation came days after the president on his Truth Social site posted an AI-generated fake video showing Obama being arrested. Trump called Obama the leader of the gang in what the president claimed was an attempt to rig the 2016 election against him. This was treason, Trump said in the Oval Office. This was every word you can think of. They tried to steal the election. They tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobodys ever even imagined, even in other countries. The Obama spokesperson said that nothing in the [Gabbard] document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio, the Obama spokesperson said, referring to the current U.S. secretary of state. Trump won the 2016 election, defeating Democrat Hillary Clinton. 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! What to know about Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein's former girlfriend Who is Ghislaine Maxwell? She grew up as the daughter of the late British billionaire Robert Maxwell, a former member of Parliament whose publishing empire included the Daily Mirror, one of Britain's biggest tabloid newspapers, and the book publisher Macmillan. As a college student, she became close friends with Britain's Prince Andrew, who would later invite her to royal residences, including Windsor Castle. But the Maxwell family was shattered by scandal. After Robert Maxwell fell from his yacht and died in 1991, investigators accused him of embezzling huge sums of money from his companies' pension funds. Soon after her father's death, Ghislaine Maxwell was photographed at a memorial sitting next to Epstein, an American money manager. Maxwell dated Epstein but later also became his employee, taking on a variety of tasks, including hiring staff for his six homes. How did Ghislaine Maxwell help Epstein? Part of Maxwell's household duties included hiring a steady stream of young people to give massages to Epstein. "As far as I'm concerned, everyone who came to his house was an adult professional person," she said in a deposition nearly a decade ago. But police and prosecutors said many of those "masseuses" were underage girls who were paid for sexual acts. Epstein was arrested in 2006 in Palm Beach, Florida, after multiple girls, including students from a local high school, spoke to police. But he ultimately pleaded guilty in 2008 to a single charge of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and served 13 months in jail. Maxwell wasn't charged until 2021. At her trial, four women testified that Maxwell groomed them as teenagers to participate in sexual acts with Epstein and sometimes participated in the abuse. Maxwell's lawyers argued that the women's recollections had been manipulated by lawyers pursuing civil lawsuits, pointing to inconsistencies in their testimony. A jury convicted Maxwell of sex trafficking, conspiracy and transportation of a minor for illegal sexual activity. Why do investigators want to talk to Maxwell now? The Justice Department's request to talk with Maxwell comes at a time when it is dealing with backlash from some of President Donald Trump's supporters, some of whom believe there has been a government cover-up to protect Epstein's rich and powerful friends from being implicated in his crimes. The department asked a judge last week to unseal transcripts of the grand jury sessions that led to indictments against Epstein and Maxwell. The Justice Department said in a memo that it had not uncovered evidence to charge anyone else in connection with Epstein's abuse. But Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said on social media that "if Ghislane Maxwell has information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims, the FBI and the DOJ will hear what she has to say." He said he anticipated meeting with Maxwell in the coming days. Will she talk? It remains to be seen. One of her lawyers, David Oscar Markus, said Tuesday that they were in discussions with the government. "Ghislaine will always testify truthfully," he said in the statement. Maxwell did not testify at her trial but gave two lengthy depositions years ago. She repeatedly said that one of Epstein's accusers, who claimed he had trafficked her to powerful men, including Prince Andrew, was a liar who fabricated her story. Where is Ghislaine Maxwell now? Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence and is currently at a low-security federal prison in Tallahassee, Florida. Her attorneys have appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court after a lower court upheld her convictions last fall. Great news for the residents of the capital! BAGO, a free online bulletin board, has officially started working in Kyiv. Now every Kyiv resident can conveniently and quickly post an announcement on the Kyiv bulletin board about the sale of goods, services, rental housing, job search, and more - absolutely free of charge. And this is very relevant news, since there are no limits on posting ads on the Kyiv bulletin board! Free Kyiv Bulletin Board Free Kyiv Bulletin Board is a private classifieds service created to facilitate everyday transactions between people in Kyiv. The peculiarity of the Kyiv bulletin board is that all ads are perfectly indexed in Google. This means that goods and services posted on the free Kyiv bulletin board have a chance to get to the top of the search results by location: Kyiv. If you are an entrepreneur or a professional who provides services on a regular basis, this is a great opportunity to get new customers without spending money on advertising. Kyiv is a city of opportunities and a fast pace of life. That's why a free message board in Kyiv will be a useful tool for both individuals and small businesses. And most importantly, there are no fees for posting, viewing contacts or updating ads. What you can find or sell on the Kyiv classifieds platform BAGO: Products: clothes, appliances, cars, furniture Services Kyiv: repair, training, beauty, cleaning Jobs and vacancies Kyiv real estate: rent and sale of apartments in Kyiv, flats, apartments, commercial real estate Animals, hobbies, sports, and many more categories We invite all Kyiv residents to join the BAGO community! Post your ads today, find what you need nearby and grow your business with us. Kyiv classifieds Thanks to a simple interface and adaptation for mobile devices, it takes just a few minutes to post an ad in Kyiv. To post an ad in Kyiv on the Kyiv bulletin board, use the Post an ad Kyiv form, select a category, add a photo, description and contact details - and in 2-3 minutes your ad will be published online. You can post ads for free and without ad limits, as this is a very relevant news nowadays. After all, many platforms now charge for placement, but on BAGO you can place an ad for free! bago.ua - Convenient, fast and free! Mike Lynchs estate has been effectively bankrupted after being ordered to pay more than 700 million ($1.44 billion) in a fraud case over the late British tycoons business dealings. A High Court judge ruled that Hewlett Packard is owed almost 740 million over the fraudulent sale of Lynchs software business Autonomy in 2011. Mike Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter, Hannah, were among those who died on the yacht. The ruling comes 11 months after Lynch and his daughter Hannah died in a freak storm that sank his Bayesian superyacht. The decision means the software boss would be expected to pass nothing to his widow and surviving daughter, unless the ruling is successfully appealed. His widow, Angela Bacares, has her own assets that are legally separate from her late husbands estate and will not be affected by the ruling. CBD has a word of advice for whoever succeeds Karen Webb as NSW Police Commissioner: do not, under any circumstances, quote Taylor Swift lyrics when discussing a horrific alleged double murder. During a Sunrise interview last year, Webb suggested haters gonna hate when asked about concerns over her response to the killings of Jessie Baird and Luke Davies, a moment that surely spelt the beginning of the end. Tensions have been running high at Police HQ this week as the search for a new commissioner reaches the pointy end, with interviews under way. Deputy Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon is the front runner for the top role, after missing out four years ago. Credit: Rhett Wyman The front runner is still deputy commissioner Mal Lanyon, who missed out on the top job in 2021 thanks to an incident where he was found passed out under Goulburns Big Merino after a few too many limoncellos during a boozy summer sesh. Whether those revelations, which stopped him getting the top job that year, still matter remains to be seen. These are artists who are getting cancelled mostly by small venues who say we cant afford to get cancelled by the pro-Palestinian mob on social media [venue owners] who are deeply apologetic, but this is a real problem. At the same time, several high-profile pro-Palestinian voices have been penalised: Jayson Gillham at the MSO, Antoinette Lattouf at the ABC, and Khaled Sabsabi, who was invited, uninvited and then re-invited to represent Australia at next years Venice Biennale. Commissioned by the Albanese Government, Segals 16-page report says antisemitism has become ingrained and normalised within academia and the cultural space but does not include examples. This is problematic, says Louise Chappell, Scientia Professor, Australian Human Rights Institute, Faculty of Law and Justice at the University of New South Wales, who argues reports of this nature usually provide evidence to support such claims. She says Segal cites a 700 per cent increase in antisemitic hatred without documenting a source, or a baseline from which that figure was extrapolated. It appears to have come from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and to reference complaints to Jewish-based organisations, Chappell says, not official complaints to the police or Australian Human Rights Commission. Segals office confirmed the figures quoted are from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry report into antisemitism 2024 by Julie Nathan, which categorises, itemises and lists each incident in reverse chronological order to show the increase. Louise Chappell, Scientia Professor, Law Faculty, Australian Human Rights Institute, University of NSW. Credit: Chappell says its important to know who collated the data and detail about the incidents. Is it that you saw a pro-Palestinian encampment at Syd Uni and you walked past and felt uncomfortable, or someone made a direct anti-Jewish slur, or set fire to a Jewish Synagogue and demonstrated direct hatred towards a Jewish person or the community, she says. They are very different things. Leibler disagrees with criticisms of the report, saying Segal has undertaken a very thorough body of work and most that of the recommendations clearly resonate with the experiences that the Jewish community has had since October 7, 2023, and before. Theres no one silver bullet to addressing antisemitism, he says, and education is a large part of the solution. It needs to be addressed at multiple levels it cant just be fixed by government, it cant just be fixed by academia, it cant just be dealt with by the arts. We need to get all parts of civil society aligned on wanting to stamp this out. The report argues that public funding for cultural institutions arts festivals, galleries and organisations and artists is not to be used to support or implicitly endorse antisemitic themes or narratives and says funding should be terminated in such instances. But several sources take issue with Segals suggested definition of antisemitism, which comes from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). Loading Greg Barns SC, spokesman for the Australian Lawyers Alliance, says [the reports] words invite conflation of the criticism of Israel with antisemitism. It has rightly been condemned by numerous human rights groups it will have the effect of censorship. Chappell agrees that although its not spelt out directly in the report, there is a conflation between being antisemitic and being anti-Israel. Its very clear through the use of the IHRA definition whose examples include criticism of Israel or anti-Zionism as antisemitic speech, she says. Its not only a huge problem for universities, but freedom of speech expressed through the arts is also at risk weve seen with the Creative Australia debacle just how damaging it can be. Leibler rejects these claims. I have been genuinely shocked by the response from certain quarters who have misrepresented what the recommendations involve, particularly this suggestion that the IHRA definition of antisemitism is somehow a highly controversial definition. Its nationally recognised as a definition by leading experts, he says. While the government doesnt have a codified definition of anti-semitism, in 2021 the IHRA definition was endorsed by the then-Morrison Coalition government and Labor, under then-opposition leader Anthony Albanese. Barns cautions the government against adopting the report. The Segal review recommendations concerning tying funding for arts and cultural organisations to efforts to prevent antisemitism is dangerous and will lead to self censoring, he says. Many cultural and arts organisations rely heavily on government funding so the temptation to refuse to allow works because they are highly critical of Zionism and Israel will be ever present. According to Barns, current legislation provides protection and there is no need for any further law reform in the hate speech area. Ms Segal seems unaware of major hate speech criminal offences reform passed by the Federal Parliament in February. These laws expand when hate speech is said to occur, he says. There is a balance between ensuring that hate speech does not occur and allowing for strident language and representations in the context of protest against human rights abuses. Chappell says the current climate is already fraught and that several high-profile examples illustrate that. It is becoming very toxic in the arts just as it is within universities, the same thing is happening in both. Theres a silencing, and its having a chilling effect on all sides, all people are feeling they cant express themselves. Its very hard to find a place where you can have difficult, straightforward discussion about these issues, she says. Loading Its dividing faculties, and its dividing arts funders, its dividing boards as demonstrated by people resigning. High-profile cases such as the Jayson Gillham/MSO case and the ABC with Antoinette Lattouf. It is touching on every key part of our cultural life and wherever freedom of speech and expression is meant to flourish. Chappell also asks why the report was not released at the same time as its equivalent into Islamophobia, which is due out next month. Context is important, she says, arguing it would have been far better to release both simultaneously, to assure the relevant communities that the government is equally concerned for their well-being. Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, commends Segals work. Jillian has done a phenomenal job. She took her her time and consulted widely both in Australia and abroad with stakeholders within the community and far beyond, he says. Recent antisemitism didnt come from nowhere, he says, so placing education at the heart of the plan is critical. He argues antisemitism has become normalised and even glamorised in some sectors, including in social media and in the arts. Our arts and our cultural festivals, they dont merely reflect Australian culture, they help shape it. I dont think thats a question. They play a vital role in our society in presenting the best of Australia, asking hard questions and showcasing our talents. But ultimately when you have viewpoints that are extreme in any direction, on any particular issue, and theyre run through the arts, theres a problem with that and particularly with the treatment of Israel and to some extent with antisemitism, I think that has been an issue. Theres a clear distinction to be drawn between government policies and politicians in the conduct of the war, no one seeks to stifle that, Ryvchin says. But when that calls for the destruction of Israel and a demonisation of its people that presents something quite different. I think it reveals a different motivation, he says. Sarah Schwartz, executive officer at the Jewish Council of Australia, doesnt believe the report would stand up to any form of academic scrutiny. Its very unclear what research has been relied on. Theres a headline that says Drivers of antisemitism but theres no real engagement with the drivers of antisemitism except for these vague references to extremist ideologies and antisemitic narratives and the sort of language that verges on conspiratorial, she says. Author Peter Temple, who was Chris Hammers writing lecturer in the early 1980s. Hammers greatest fortune, however, was that his lecturer in feature writing was a recent arrival from South Africa named Peter Temple. Temple would later become Australias finest crime writer, turning out the Jack Irish series before winning international fame for the transcendent novels The Broken Shore and Truth. Back then, however, the unsung Temple was an unforgiving judge of his students. He was excoriating, Hammer says. He would fail more than 80 per cent of his class, and he would write these terrible comments like get a trade or rush to hospital immediately I suspect brain damage. Nevertheless, Temples commitment to style and the authentic voice he was an exponent of Strunk and Whites classic The Elements of Style (Omit needless words, it advises) left an impression on young Hammer, who grew to enjoy the company of the irascible lecturer. Because it was a very small campus, there was really only one bar, which was the student bar, he says. So youd run into your lecturers at the bar, and at the bar, Peter Temple was the most sociable, funny man with an incredibly dry sense of humour. That didnt save Hammer when he stalked into Temples office, demanding an explanation for receiving a mark of 54 per cent for what he thought was a well-written feature story. So I went to front him, you know, arrogant little shit that I was, and he just, he just gave me a tongue lashing. Who do you think you are, anyway? It was pretty brutal. And it was only as I was leaving, walking out the door with my tail between my legs, he said, Oh yeah, by the way, youre one of four people who passed, so relatively speaking, I guess it wasnt so bad. There is a poignancy here. Loading When Hammers wildly successful debut novel Scrublands was published in 2018, establishing him as a leading figure in the rural noir genre of crime writing, Peter Temple wasnt around to judge it. He died a couple of months before Scrublands was published. The novel was adapted for the screen a co-production between Stan and Nine and is now in its second season, having shifted from the dry inland to the coast where Hammer set his second book, Silver. It happens that I have known Hammer for many of his years as a journalist and all of his period as an author. When I left The Bulletin magazines office in Canberras press gallery in 2007, he filled the vacancy and became chief political correspondent. When The Bulletin the oldest current affairs magazine in Australia and the fourth oldest in the world closed a year later, he joined The Age in the gallery, where we worked together until he became a celebrated author. We have shared long lunches since the 1990s with a circle of mutual mates from the gallery, several of whom have since become well-known authors themselves, and have taken to the Snowy Mountains for rowdy ski weekends with the same old mates (the Old Farts, inevitably) for each of the past 20 years. And so, when we take a table at the venerable, much revived The Graham Hotel in Port Melbourne, there is an easy familiarity. Author Chris Hammer hoists a glass of red at The Graham Hotel. Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui We know were kidding ourselves when we say that we should have only one glass of wine over lunch. We order a bottle: a TarraWarra Estate pinot noir from the Yarra Valley, agreeing that pinot noir is such an agreeable, relatively light red that it could do no harm to a couple of old hands. Loading Besides, we are intent on having steaks for lunch. You need a good bottle of red at hand for that sort of thing. We are at the Graham to undertake what might be called literary archaeology, rather than to discuss Hammers Scrublands or the six absorbing and best-selling crime novels that have followed it, selling millions worldwide, with another, Legacy, to be published soon. We are returning to the source; to Hammers first book, The River, a non-fiction travel narrative, environmental exploration of the Murray-Darling Basin, and prophecy of climate change, first published in 2010. The River, Chris Hammers first book. Published in 2010, it has been re-published this year. In 2008, taking his leave from The Age, where he had been reporting on both the environment and national security, Hammer climbed into his little Hyundai station wagon and set off to travel the entire length of the Murray and Darling river systems. It was almost a decade into the longest and worst big dry in southern Australias recorded history, the Millennium Drought. During his travels, Hammer and his young son hiked for many hours to the almost imperceptible source of the Murray high in the Australian Alps, he drove to far beyond the back of Bourke, crossing the Darling and heading to the Paroo the last wild river because it is not dammed for irrigation viewed huge irrigation dams and stood flummoxed in South Australia where the exhausted Murray no longer flowed into the sea. And all along the way, he yarned with Australians whose livelihoods, made increasingly precarious by the drought, relied on the struggling rivers. The resulting book, The River: A Journey Through the Murray-Darling Basin, received much-deserved critical acclaim, but like most books, it eased into relative obscurity, as did Hammers companion book The Coast: A Journey Along Australias Eastern Shores, published in 2012. They may not have been big-selling volumes, but they remain foundational to Hammers later great success as an author. What I discovered is I actually loved [writing books], he says. It was much more than this, however. The landscapes through which he travelled, the people he met, the little towns he visited, and the hardships he observed burned upon the land and its residents by a pitiless climate became the canvas on which he created his later crime fictions. Through it all, Hammer explained in elegant prose how Australias rivers, meandering across a relentlessly flat landscape, behave in a way that is quite unlike other rivers of the world, and how state and federal politicians and water users have manipulated the system in ways that have caused a monumental and lasting environmental mess. Loading All these years later, MUP has re-published The River, and any half-alert reader can readily recognise the settings for Hammers crime fiction. Scrublands fictional Riversend, for instance, is clearly Wakool, a town in the NSW Riverina where the locals insisted Hammer stay in the local CWA headquarters rather than pitch his tent by the bone-dry Wakool River, an anabranch of the equally dry Edward River. Wakool was clearly happy to have Hammer in town. He was prevailed upon to judge the photographic competition at the annual show. Our steaks arrive. We have skipped over the Grahams extensive selection of entrees and various mains and gone straight to the grill. Fried broccoli, some green goodness. Credit: LUIS ENRIQUE ASCUI Chris opts for a Gippsland eye fillet, and Ive chosen a Bass Strait Scotch fillet. Figuring we should probably have something green, we clear our consciences by ordering a side of fried broccoli in mustard gastrique and crunchy shallots. Delicious, it turns out. We must, of course, have a bowl of pommes frites. Theyre perfectly golden strings touched with spiced salt. Steak, frites and pinot. We could be in Burgundy. Or heaven. Chris chooses a red wine jus for his eye fillet. I decline all sauces and take a selection of mustards and horseradish for my scotch fillet. Here, we agree, is a proper meal for old mates. The steaks? Grilled to tender perfection. I loved the travel, obviously, says Hammer, taking up the story of his long series of trips through the Murray-Darling. Steak grilled to perfection at the Graham Hotel. Credit: LUIS ENRIQUE ASCUI But what I found I loved was writing, expressing myself at length. And you know, The River is they call it narrative, non-fiction Im just telling a story. So, yeah, its fact-based, but its also impressionistic, so I dont try and be objective about the places Im visiting. Then I found I like the editing process, and I realised I loved the process of writing books. And I had high hopes that this was the launch of something bigger, like a new career. Lunch with Chris Hammer at The Graham Hotel And so it was. Scrublands, drafted in Hammers spare time as he returned to The Age to become online political editor after satisfying his thirst for travelling the inland and the coast, excited a publishers auction that earned him a six-figure book deal, freedom from traditional employment and a readership that continues to expand across the world. He has, at last count, sold 1.2 million books. We take coffee and drain the bottle. If we werent so content, we might have thought to toast the late Peter Temple, who, after all, helped lay the path to this lunch. 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 Geoff Hutchison has officially entered the harrumph zone. Change is everywhere. His waning status. His ageing body. This whole shot-to-hell world. Whether on ubiquitous screens or the drive to the supermarket, stupidity and inconvenience conspire to exasperate him. His mission now: How Not to Become a Grumpy Old Bugger. I genuinely think Im a better person for having written it, the former ABC radio presenter says of his first book, which is subtitled A Blokes Guide To Living a Better Life. Ive had cause at times to remind myself, if Im going to tell other people how they should live their lives, Ive got to respond to that. Ive got to take this stuff seriously. After 40 years as a journalist, not least with Foreign Correspondent and 7.30, he knows serious. But it was his last 16 in talkback on ABC Perth that gave him the necessary tone for a book addressing the minefield of male discontent: rigorous inquiry, sure, but with a lightness of touch that invites leaning in. I wanted to hit blokes between the eyes on a couple of things, but I also know they will put the book down and never read another paragraph if I cant win them over to the conversation, he says. Although I still think their partners might read bits of it out loud to them in bed. That would make me happy too. In terms of inspiration, he recalls one beacon of grump from early in his talkback career: February 13, 2008, the day new PM Kevin Rudd apologised to the Stolen Generations. I reckon the first six callers were blokes, and they were all saying, I dont see that I should have to apologise for anything. I didnt say it on air but I thought, Oh my god, how can these blokes be such bastards? Back then I took it personally. I dont now. I would now want to say to those blokes: This isnt about you. Not everything that happens in the world is about you. That whole Harrumph, well I dont like it I want to convince them to just let some things go. Hutchisons book is not interested in culture wars. He isnt out to debate pronouns or cancel culture. What hes describing is something quieter and more insidious: a kind of emotional shrinkage, a stubborn stand-off with acceptance. Advertisement You raise the kids, the job ends, and you become a little less interesting to everyone. Thats the bit no one tells you, he says, with the fresh insight of the recent retiree. And if you were defined by that role the job, the dad, the problem-solver I think youre very vulnerable to sadness. And loneliness. Hutchison spent the last 16 years working at ABC radio, where many of his callers helped inspire his book. The grim end of male sadness is devastating. In Australia, Hutchison discovered, 86 men call an ambulance every day with thoughts of suicide. In 2023 alone, 64 women were killed in acts of male violence. But he doesnt have to consult experts and statistics to see the darkness festering in blokes heads. He recalls stumbling on a social media chat sharing the praises of Italian restaurants. Every positive comment came from a woman. Every negative and unnecessary one came from a bloke. And Im just thinking, who are you? What are you doing, sitting at a keyboard, hating everything? Is there any pleasure in that? Then there was a bloke named Ian, compelled to comment under an exultant photo of three young footy players with hands casually resting on each others knees. Back when I played footy, Ian said, we would get the shit kicked out of us for posing like that. TAKE 7: THE ANSWERS ACCORDING TO GEOFF HUTCHISON Worst habit? It used to be celebrating cynicism. But after hearing Billy Bragg declare that cynicism is the enemy of hope, I am now determinedly of the same opinion. Greatest fear? I dont like them Fascists very much. Indeed, anyone who seeks political advantage by using fear to target and blame others. And Im wary of anyone who thinks the concept of Prosperity Theology is endorsed by a greater power. The line that stayed with you? Love this life, dont wait til the next one comes Neil Finn. Biggest regret? A kitchen accident that left my young son only partially sighted. I had my back turned as he tried to open a bag of apples with scissors. And yes, it was as awful as it sounds. Ive written about it for the first time in my book in the chapter titled Regret. Favourite book? Richard Fords The Sportswriter (1986). I was a young version of one at the time. The artwork/song you wish was yours? The Portrait of the Journalist Sylvia von Harden by the German painter Otto Dix. If you could time travel, where would you choose to go? London in the mid 60s please, with plenty of money in my pocket. And if you could get me into the Marquee Club to see oh I dunno, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones or Jimi Hendrix that would be splendid. That bloke is just curating a museum of dickheadedness, Hutchison says. Its awful, and I bet its making him sick. I bet his wife doesnt like him much. And I bet his son doesnt come home to watch footy on Friday nights because he cant bear to hear Dad talk about their haircuts. Advertisement That author doesnt exempt himself. He recounts one episode of fuming at an umpires call that his daughter, gently, had to tell him was pathetic. He talks about making his mates laugh by impersonating some dickhead at the pub. I find that kind of cynicism less funny now. When blokes shrink into that tight, narrow worldview, they must be awful to live with. He owns that too. Post-ABC, he assumed more time with his wife, Philippa. But her career as a documentary maker is firing. Shes about to fly to the UK for three weeks of interviews. So I had to remind myself: you dont need to be at the centre of everything. You can swan around on the edges. Pick and choose how you want to engage. Just make sure you do. The active pursuit of engagement is a theme of Hutchisons book. If youve got male friends, place some value on that friendship. Whatever the next five, 10, 20 years look like and they might be terrific, or they might be absolutely shithouse you want to have people to talk to about it. That refusal to disappear, to keep showing up, runs through the people he interviews. Theres social researcher and psychologist Hugh Mackay, still sharp and empathetic at 86. Alex Pearce, the Fremantle Dockers captain is emotionally open in a way Hutchison finds quietly radical. Through his son he meets a trans woman named Gemma, whose calm presence contrasts powerfully with the rage of anonymous detractors. Two GPs talk bluntly about ageing bodies behind pseudonyms designed to tickle sci-fi-nerds: Peter Venkman and Leonard McCoy. At both ends, its Hutchisons late father who anchors the book. The man who blithely proclaimed his unhappiness as a fact of life when Geoff was a boy used to come home from the Italian Club in Pickering Brook and say, God, people are stupid. I used to think, Is it just the gang youre hangin out with Dad? Ive got to believe not everyone is quite so venal or miserable. Advertisement When I first got to Hollywood in 2011, I had a movie-like experience. I was picked up from the airport by my friend in a red 70s convertible and driven straight to a stand-up comedy night where I performed a set that landed me a job writing for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Having just come from the Melbourne open-mic comedy scene, it seemed surreal that I could all of a sudden land a job on the longest-running late-night talk show in the history of television. If I had stayed in Australia, the best I could hope for would be a gig on brekkie radio no offence to Kyle and Jackie O. Such is the allure of showbiz in the US. You can turn up and become a star, or you can be caught cheating on your wife at a Coldplay concert. Anything can happen. Donald Trump appears on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert during his 2015 presidential campaign. Credit: CBS via Getty Images But over 15 years of working in American television, Ive discovered how those showbiz dreams are underpinned by an old boys club men (mostly) in suits who all went to the same college, competing for status and bonuses big enough to buy yachts. These business execs arent patrons of the arts. Theyre not champions of political causes. Theyre businesspeople who could just as well be in construction or tech or, if theyre really daring, health insurance. This underbelly has now come to the surface with Stephen Colberts announcement that The Late Show has been cancelled by CBS. The decision came days after Colbert criticised the network for settling a $US16 million lawsuit with President Donald Trump, calling it a big fat bribe. Its speculated that such dissent from Colbert had to be stifled by CBS, to help them secure federal approval of their planned $US8 billion merger with Skydance Media. The network denies this, stating the cancellation of The Late Show was purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night an explanation that would be far more plausible if Colbert wasnt winning the ratings in his time slot and hosting the only late-night talk show in recent years to grow viewers. Respondents primarily smoked cannabis, and edibles were the second most commonly used product, says Rodan. In terms of improving eating disorder-related symptoms, no differences were observed in the way cannabis was consumed. However, those that consumed cannabis flower via smoking or cannabis concentrates reported worse side effects. Some people were using CBD-only products which had few side effects: these were reported as good for general mental health. Respondents reported that smoking cannabis came with more negative side effects than other methods. Credit: iStock How often did they use? While the study asked respondents to report on all drug taking (alcohol, tobacco, nicotine and cocaine were found to be the worst for alleviating symptoms), it also focused on frequency. It found that while the beneficial effects of cannabis wore off once users stopped using it, the impacts of psychedelics were longer lasting, with one or two doses a year delivering long-lasting benefits. In the context of psychedelics, previous research around depression has shown that even a single dose can lead to sustained therapeutic benefits lasting weeks or months, Rodan says. In contrast, the effects of cannabis tend to be more transient, with benefits typically experienced only during active use and diminishing quickly once use is discontinued. Respondents to the survey did so anonymously. They were overwhelmingly female (94 per cent) and 40 per cent of them had been diagnosed with anorexia. About one-third of respondents did not have a formal diagnosis but reported eating disorders that caused them distress. Jayashri Kulkarni, professor of psychiatry at The Alfred hospital in Melbourne and Monash University, who has done extensive research on eating disorders but was not involved in this study, says given the size and depth of the group surveyed, the results look promising. However, she says there are some caveats, particularly because it is hard to separate one condition, or morbidity, from another. The comorbidity in mental health complicates things she says. This is something all of us face just clear delineated markers in mental health. Lots of people with eating disorders also have other conditions like ADHD. [The group surveyed] is a messy group, and its self-selected. With those flaws in mind, they found interesting real-world situations that people living with eating disorders have had. More research for a complex illness Kulkarni says that while it is not the first study to find cannabis and psychedelics can be beneficial to those with eating disorders, it does contribute to a growing body of evidence pointing to the need for further research. Loading It is not a new concept, but it is another one that shows there is something in this, she says. Behind eating disorders there is often a lot of trauma that has created, particularly in women, a maladaptive response to trauma with an eating disorder. A woman or girl will try to control what she can and food is something she can control. There is a lot of work with psilocybin [found in mushrooms] in treating eating disorders. A survey like this is good in one way, but it is very messy in another way, and we have to be careful what we extrapolate from this. For the researchers, the next steps are already in play. The Lambert Initiative in collaboration with the Inside Out Institute at the University of Sydney is preparing to launch clinical trials into psilocybin, while a pilot program into the effectiveness of non-intoxicating cannabis component cannabidiol in treating severe anorexia in young people is almost finished. In the meantime, Rodan cautions against self-medicating to treat mental illness. While our findings suggest that many individuals perceive cannabis and psychedelics as helpful in managing eating disorder symptoms, its important to emphasise that self-medicating with these substances without medical oversight can carry significant risks, she says. She says drugs such as these are just one element of a multidisciplinary treatment plan. 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 story is part of the July 26 edition of Good Weekend. See all 15 stories . A child is standing in the doorway of a living room holding a pink Barbie campervan aloft. Her expression is focused as she takes aim, ready to launch it at her sisters head. The child is mine. And I am out of my depth. Just as she is about to throw the toy van, I leap forward and grab it from her hands. She races back to her room to find another missile. We perform this dance three times I wont let you throw, I say before she changes tack and heads to the kitchen, where she takes a pair of scissors from the drawer, sits down on the floor and inserts a finger defiantly between the open blades. My brain scans the various parenting tips Ive been consuming lately on social media: All feelings are welcome, all behaviours are not; Punishment is ineffective for improving behaviour; They cant regulate their emotions, but you can regulate yours; This is not a bad kid, this is a good kid having a hard time; I can cope with this. Only Im not sure that I can. And I truly dont know how to handle it. In the olden days when you and I were growing up the advice was simple. Wed have grabbed that bloody campervan from her hands, said a few choice words, perhaps even thrown it in the bin, and sent her to her room to think about what shed done. Sadly, for anyone fluent in this approach, it is ineffective at raising a well-regulated, emotionally intelligent human. Rather, the socalled behaviourist approach is associated with a lack of independence, low self-esteem and aggression, says Dr Billy Garvey, a Melbourne-based developmental paediatrician and author of Ten Things I Wish You Knew About Your Childs Mental Health. Advertisement As research into childhood development has grown, behaviourism has given way to the boundary-less, permissive-parenting approach. Applying this approach might mean wed have taken the hit from the campervan missile and then comforted the distressed child who threw it at us. The permissive approach (which Garvey says people often misconstrue as being the same as gentle parenting) is also ineffective and can increase hostility towards authority figures, lower empathy and stoke peer conflict. Loading Today, the advice is not so simple. A new breed of parenting educators has taken over the internet and is changing the way the next generation of kids is being raised. The wildly swinging parenting pendulum has settled on a muddier middle. It focuses more on the parents feelings than the childs, and would neither punish my daughter nor let her throw the campervan at her sisters (or my) head. So what on earth is one to do? I take heart from the fact that many of these new parenting educators are also stuck in the muddiness of it all and that they, too, have questioned the sanity of their child as well as the sanctity of their parenting. The bomb drops On the day that I arrive at Genevieve Muirs bungalow-style home in a leafy suburb of Sydneys lower north shore, shes forgotten Im coming. There is a pile of laundry on the dining table and, though her hair is still immaculate from a morning television appearance, the mum of four boys, aged between eight and 15, appears frazzled. Genevieve Muir had a bomb drop moment after attending a parenting course recommended by a nurse at a community health centre. Credit: Advertisement Once weve settled into the comfortable navy lounges with a pot of green tea, her groodle Poppy nuzzling me (or the baklava in my hand), the 46-year-old social worker tells me about her low point as a parent. At the end of one particularly long and hot day, she had finally got her three-month-old son, who had reflux, to sleep. Just as Muir was about to leave the nursery, her two-year-old son exploded into the room, roaring like a lion, and started shaking the bassinet. Muir, then in her early 30s, was apoplectic. I thought, What is wrong with my child? She did what any self-respecting, behaviourist-reared person would do: she yelled at her son, shamed him for waking his baby brother and punished him. Of course, her two-year-old kept behaving like a two-year-old, hitting, pushing, biting and melting down, while her newborn with reflux kept crying. When they cried and cried and nothing would fix it, like toddlers can, that felt like nails down a chalkboard, says Muir, author of Little People, Big Feelings. Several months later, she found herself sitting in her local community health centre crying about how awful her children were. When the nurse gently suggested she try a course on parenting, Muir felt deeply offended. I was like, Does she not know who I am? Im a social worker, Im the daughter of a therapist, I do not need a parenting course. My problem is the children. Its difficult to be a regulated, calm parent all the time. We all have crappy days when we want to flip the bird. Maggie Dent, author Yet desperation makes us do strange things. She did the course and felt a bomb drop. The bomb was learning that certain emotions trigger us, probably because when we were children those emotions were rejected, or were the cause of punishment from caregivers. Now, as parents ourselves, those same emotions in our children elicit a visceral response in us. The instinct when they are upset, whinge, act out or disobey is to yell, smack, shame or send them to their rooms as we were sent to ours. When a child has a meltdown, were telling parents to sit alongside them, but theyve never had that modelled to them, Muir says. For the first time, Muir felt self-compassion and understood her own reactions. It was a skill that would later inform the parenting classes she runs at Sydneys Mater Hospital, her book, and the clips she posts to her 67,000 followers on Instagram. (Muir also has 70,000 followers on TikTok and 16,000 on Facebook.) Advertisement Sometimes the bigger problems with our children is our stuff, not their stuff, says Maggie Dent, author of Mothering Our Boys and Muirs friend and mentor. Its difficult to be a regulated, calm parent all the time, adds Dent, who has a following of 191,000 on Instagram. We all have crappy days when we want to flip the bird. [We should just] aim to be a good-enough parent. What being a good-enough parent means in practice is having compassion for ourselves when the kids and home life in general are starting to feel a bit overwhelming. It also means having empathy for our kids. I have at times wondered how I can expect them to have their emotional shit together when their 44-year-old mother doesnt always have hers. And it means learning to hold the boundary, without being an arsehole. At least, most of the time. Maggie Dent says that sometimes the problems with our children are actually our stuff. Credit: Dylan Coker / Dreamchaser When I talk to Professor Sophie Havighurst, a parenting researcher at Melbourne University, she says something that sticks with me. These practices boundaries, self-compassion, empathy, warmth are not just parenting skills, they are relationship skills. Its obvious, but it strikes me because Ive always thought of parenting as an instinct, or as an in-built capacity that we either have or do not have, not a relationship skill or a skill we must learn and practise. No wonder we feel like shit when its hard, says Dr Becky, a child psychologist with more than 3.5 million followers on social media, in a recent clip on Instagram. The only thing that comes naturally in parenting is how you were parented. Its like being raised in English and wanting to teach your kid Mandarin and to speak to them in Mandarin. I dont think anyone would think Mandarin is going to come naturally. Youre going to have to learn it and practise it and in your hardest, stressful moments, you would speak English. That doesnt mean the Mandarin is not working. The demand for the advice of the Dr Beckys, Muirs, Dents and Garveys of the world, as well a range of unqualified parenting educators, is high. In the past five years, the online parenting market has become a multibillion-dollar business. On Instagram alone, the hashtag #parenting appears more than 23 million times, while #parentingtips is tagged more than 4.6 million times. Advertisement In this unregulated space, much content is designed to get clicks and ad revenue by preying on parents insecurities and fears they are not doing enough, let alone doing anything right. At its worst, it creates pressure, shame, confusion and the sense that everybody else is doing a better job (Theyre bloody not, says Dent, god love her), and can steer us in the wrong direction, making us dismiss our better instincts. Some of the advice is also potentially harmful, says Garvey, a father of two who has more than 50,000 followers on social media; for instance, the message to new mums to just relax and enjoy being with their baby, when up to 30 per cent have postnatal depression. Melbourne-based developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey warns that advice on social media can be potentially harmful. Credit: Other messaging says, for a certain price, Ill show you how to make a baby sleep, Garvey tells me. So many new parents are desperate, and when they pay and try that method but it doesnt work, they think that theyre the ones who are failing not the program that was developed by someone without developmental training and who just saw a financial opportunity. But there is also advice that can provide much-needed perspective and a guide to a deeper, more enjoyable connection with our children. Muir suspects this desire is driving the demand for social media parenting: we know we want to do it differently, but we dont yet know how to do it differently. Regulating emotions I never thought Id say this, but this new generation of parenting educators on social media has helped me. The scraps of advice they provide have become mantras to approach parenting in a way that feels kinder (to myself and to my daughters) and more accepting of the mess. It doesnt prevent the rise of frustration and the instinct to threaten punishments when they turn into deranged, fire-breathing dragons because Ive brought them the wrong snack. And it doesnt mean I now know how to perfectly navigate missile or scissor stand-offs. But I can practise a little self-compassion to regulate my own emotions in the moment, and I appreciate that it is hard for anyone to know what to do sometimes. Advertisement The CFMEU rival Australian Workers Union has also been drawn into the scandal, with a small number of AWU representatives supporting two firms led by figures with criminal links as a means of countering CFMEU aggression. One of the firms, 24-7 Labour, has been seeking access to major Queensland government jobs, obtaining its enterprise bargaining agreement with the AWUs Queensland branch. 24-7 Labour is owned by two men previously convicted of running a drug-trafficking operation between Queensland and Victoria, including the firms manager who sought to conceal his serious criminal past during EBA negotiations. An investigation by this masthead has also confirmed that 24-7 briefly retained the services of former Victorian Labor government minister Cesar Melhem to help it enter the Queensland industry. After Irvings appointment at the CFMEU following this mastheads Building Bad investigation, federal and state Labor governments have spent the past 12 months responding to growing allegations of underworld activity in the construction sector by calling in police and regulators who have traditionally been slow or unable to act. A year since the scandal broke, authorities have launched multiple investigations but have not laid a single substantive charge. The revelations of cross-border underworld activity could be swept up by the Queensland governments proposed commission if Crisafulli directs it to go after Australias underworld. Queensland Attorney-General Deb Frecklington, Premier David Crisafulli and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie announce a commission of inquiry into the CFMEU on Sunday. Credit: Courtney Kruk Late on Wednesday, in response to questions sent by this masthead, Irving emerged as a supporter of such a move. His administration released a statement saying while it was engaged in the task of removing criminal elements and bikies from within the CFMEU on a daily basis there is much, much more to be done. There is clear evidence of corruption and criminal activity in Queensland, NSW and Victoria, a spokesman for Irving said in a statement. The Queensland inquiry and the ongoing work of the federal government provide a unique opportunity to continue this work. If Crisafulli responds to Irvings call, his commission would see gangland figures and company directors answering questions, as well as union officials. The Gold Coast meeting When federal police agents raided the Melbourne offices of a gangland accountant in March, they stumbled on the money trail linking Victorias gangland to a property development on the Gold Coast. It is being built in a joint venture between Melbourne firm Glenvill Developments and Queensland developer QNY Group. The joint venture, known as Glen Q, announced in March 2023 its funding of the $70 million boutique 16-level Sunset Residences at Broadbeach on the Gold Coasts famous surf strip. 21 Broadbeach development on the Gold Coast. Credit: Behind the scenes, trouble was brewing. Union sources have said the building project was deemed unsafe for workers, leading to industrial action and site visits by the CFMEUs Queensland branch. Various union sources, including those who have dealt with police, have confirmed to this masthead that this industrial pressure appears to have prompted a $110,000 payment from Glen Q to gangland identity John Khoury in about November 2024. Khoury is a veteran member of the Mick Gatto-led Carlton Crew and has previously been described in commissions of inquiry (unrelated to the building industry) as an associate of numerous Melbourne-based organised crime figures. This masthead is not suggesting Khoury is a criminal, only that he has been the subject of repeated attention by authorities. He has declined to comment and denies all allegations of wrongdoing. For two decades in Victoria, Gatto and Khoury have been fixers of choice for builders wanting to get the CFMEUs Melbourne bosses onside. Charles Pellegrino during a police raid in March. Credit: Jason South But until the police raid in March, it was not known that the pairs business model had crept up north, or that it had kept operating after the CFMEU was placed in administration. The union sources aware of the Gold Coast deal said they also involved Nick Maric, another building company owner who has expanded from Victoria into Queensland and who spends time on the Gold Coast. Records sighted by this masthead show that, separate to the Gold Coast deal, Maric has paid Khoury and Gatto to run his industrial relations strategy and used the same payment method to pay the pair as Glen Q via front companies owned by Pellegrino. Maric in particular has used Khoury to promote and protect his business, LTE, which over the past two years has won substantial work across Victoria and on several major Queensland-funded government sites including the Logan Hospital expansion, the Gold Coast University Hospital sub-acute expansion, and the federally funded Centre for National Resilience quarantine facility in Brisbane. Maric has previously denied any wrongdoing in his construction dealings. In November 2024, Khoury met at a Gold Coast cafe with three CFMEU officials: a local delegate, senior organiser Dylan Howard, and high-ranking CFMEU organiser Matt Vonhoff. A Glen Q representative refused to answer questions about the meeting and payment. Loading The CFMEU also declined to answer questions, but multiple CFMEU sources told this masthead, anonymously because they are not authorised to speak publicly, that the administration had conducted an internal investigation and grilled Vonhoff and the other officials about their interaction with Khoury. The sources said the union administration believed the trios account that the CFMEU Queensland branch had acted with propriety, done no favours for Khoury, and ended industrial activity on the Glen Q site for reasons unconnected to the Khoury meeting. Police have not laid any charges in relation to the incident, which is part of a broader investigation into underworld interactions with the union. The use by Glen Q of Khoury as a fixer may be legal, although it is unlawful to make a dishonest payment to a third party to influence a union. The federal police raids have triggered an ongoing inquiry into several Melbourne identities. That probe is yet to lead to any charges. Similarly, Victoria Police have made no arrests over unrelated gangland activity in Melbourne, including a spate of fire-bombings targeting construction firms. In NSW, police are investigating allegations of bikie-linked standover involving construction industry and union figures in Sydney as recently as the past month, but have also laid no charges. A separate Queensland case, involving the Comancheros and major building firm BMD, has also led to no outcome from authorities. That case involves two men: Comanchero associate and building company owner Krstomir Bjelogrlic and Comanchero national boss Bemir Saracevic. Bemir Saracevic was featured in a news article tabled in the federal parliament. Credit: The two are suspected to have travelled from Melbourne to Brisbane mid-last year to engage in standover activity involving the $300 million Centenary Bridge upgrade and an industrial dispute between the CFMEU, national building firm BMD and, on the periphery, the Australian Workers Union. In June 2024, Bjelogrlic and Saracevic arrived in Brisbane ostensibly to conduct security work for a BMD subcontractor called Host. BMD declined to answer questions, but three sources who worked for the company said its subcontractor Host had used muscle from Melbourne to counter the CFMEUs campaign against it in Queensland. Loading The sources also said that after Bjelogrlic and Saracevic arrived in Brisbane, they were allegedly involved in a standover incident targeting a CFMEU representative. The two were named in an ABC article tabled in federal parliament last year detailing allegations they had heavied CFMEU officials in Queensland. Host is a firm that has historically operated closely with the AWU, leading to accusations from inside the CFMEU that its union rival has turned a blind eye to the use of bikies in Brisbane a claim hotly disputed by the AWU, whose members and officials have previously accused the CFMEU of blatant violence and intimidation. A Host spokesman, who previously declined to answer specific questions about the suspected bikie activity, said in a statement that it was important to acknowledge the ongoing rivalry between the CFMEU and the AWU and that certain factions of the CFMEU have been linked to organised crime. Our company is law-abiding and has no link to organised crime, he said. In its statement, the Irving-led administration did not respond to specific questions but said: The administration believes it is time for employers and state and federal governments to focus on crime and corruption across the industry, rather than a narrow focus on the CFMEU. The administrator has written to Premier Crisafulli to discuss the best way to address [these] matters, including via his proposed commission of inquiry. In a statement, AWU Queensland secretary Stacey Schinnerl said her union never has and never will be a supporter of bikies or any organised crime and was proud to have always fought against that corrupted version of unionism. But the AWU also faces questions about its decision to sign off on an enterprise bargaining agreement in Queensland with Melbourne labour hire 24-7. The firm is led by convicted drug trafficker Jarrod Hennig and a second Middle Eastern crime figure, both of whom appear to have made a concerted effort to conceal their involvement in the firm. Jarrod Hennig at the time of his arrest. Credit: This masthead can reveal that in 2024, 24-7 secured an enterprise bargaining agreement with the AWUs Queensland branch to expand into civil and transport projects in Queensland. There is no evidence that any Queensland union official knew of the firms links to convicts, as uncovered in a recent investigation by this masthead detailing 24-7s work on Australias biggest wind farm project. But multiple AWU and industry sources have confirmed that at least two AWU delegates in Victoria knew of the companys criminal links. One of those delegates, Johnny Keys, introduced the firm to former AWU boss and ex-Victorian minister Cesar Melhem, and he was subsequently hired to help 24-7 draft its Queensland union agreement. This masthead does not suggest that Melhem was aware of 24-7s links to organised criminals when he accepted the job. Cesar Melhem in the Victorian parliament. Credit: Jason South In a statement Melhem said he acted for the company some time last year for the approval of an enterprise agreement. Were not currently acting for 24-7 and wont be in the future, he said. State secretary Schinnerl said it was not the unions job to play investigator on the backgrounds of individuals involved in companies with whom we negotiate agreements. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. CBS News just published a new poll with the headline, "Poll finds support for Trump's deportation program falls." The story seemed straightforward. But the story behind the story is worth looking into. The poll found that 44% of those surveyed approved of the way President Donald Trump is handling the issue of immigration, while 56% disapprove. After that came a number of more specific questions. What do you think about "the Trump administration's program to find and deport immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally"? Forty-nine percent approved, while 51% disapproved. Then: "Do you think the Trump administration is mainly prioritizing dangerous criminals for deportation, or is it mainly prioritizing people who are not dangerous criminals?" Forty-four percent said prioritizing dangerous criminals, while 56% said prioritizing those who are not dangerous criminals. And: "So far, do you think the Trump administration is focusing too much, about the right amount, or not enough on deporting immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally?" Fifty-one percent said too much, 33% said the right amount, and 15% said not enough. "On matters of deportation, differences hinge on who, and how many, Americans see as being targeted, as well as the use of detention facilities," CBS wrote. "The Republican and MAGA political base remain overwhelmingly approving of it all, but the rest of the American public has become less so." It was all pretty run-of-the-mill stuff, until this question: "Do you think Donald Trump's policies are making the number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border go up, go down, or not change?" Unlike an opinion question, this was a fact-based query, with a right and a wrong answer. Sixty-four percent gave the obviously correct response Trump has made the number of migrants crossing the border go down. But 28% said the Trump policies have made no difference, which was flatly wrong. And 8% said crossings have actually gone up, which was crazy wrong. Just for the record, the Border Patrol recorded 2,206,436 encounters with illegal border crossers in fiscal 2022, the first full year of Joe Biden's presidency. (The government keeps the numbers in fiscal years fiscal 2022 ran from Oct. 1, 2021, to Sept. 30, 2022.) In fiscal 2023, there were 2,045,838 encounters, and in fiscal 2024, there were 1,530,523. So far in Trump's presidency, there were 8,348 encounters in February, 7,183 in March, 8,378 in April, 8,723 in May, and 6,072 in June. You do the math. There has been an off-the-cliff drop in encounters since Trump became president. And just to emphasize things, even of those small numbers of crossings, U.S. officials are not allowing any of the illegal crossers to stay in the country. So, how did so many poll respondents get the situation so wrong? Put the 28% and the 8% together, and you get 36% of Americans who don't know what Trump has done on the border. Or maybe they know but will not acknowledge it. So take a closer look into the details of that simple question: Have Trump's policies made the number of migrants crossing the border go up, or down, or made no difference? Looking into the details of the poll, the numbers for Democratic respondents were striking. A full 43% of Democrats said Trump's policies have made no difference, while an additional 10% said those policies have made border crossings go up. That's a majority who either do not know or who reject the facts on the border. Just 47% of Democrats knew, or admitted, the correct answer. Some of it is just lack of knowledge. In any poll, there will be some number of people who don't know basic political facts. But the Democratic numbers seem larger than that. Perhaps respondents have been reading and watching news outlets that largely ignore the border issue but pay a lot of attention to the deportation issue. Or perhaps they know the situation on the border but just don't want to acknowledge it. In any event, the answers to the border crossings question could tell us something about the answers to all the other immigration questions in the CBS poll, and perhaps in other polls as well. What do people mean when they say they do not approve of Trump's "immigration" policy? Do they mean border security? Do they mean Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations? Do they mean action against people who broke the law by entering the country and then broke it again by committing some other crime? Or those who broke the law by entering but have not committed any additional crimes? And what do they know about what the Trump administration is doing? Do they know about the border crossing numbers? Do they know what the ICE raids are accomplishing? A lot of that will depend on what, if any, news coverage they read and watch. For example, for the worst years of the Biden border incursion, Fox News was the only national news organization to cover what was one of the most important stories of recent decades. People who got their news from other sources might not have known what was going on. Why did those news sources downplay such obviously consequential news? That's another story. The fact is, it's entirely possible significant numbers of Americans, even now, are not fully informed on what is going on in the Trump administration under the heading of "immigration." The new CBS poll, with its seemingly confusing results, appears to show that. China-made tonne-class eVTOL delivered Xinhua) 09:34, July 23, 2025 The V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, conducts a flight demonstration at a flight test base in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) SHANGHAI, July 22 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese tech startup on Tuesday delivered a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, marking a breakthrough in the application of large eVTOLs. Developed by the Shanghai-based company AutoFlight, the V2000CG CarryAll boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 2 tonnes. Following the acquisition of the type certificate and production certificate last year, along with the airworthiness certificate acquired on Monday, the unmanned aircraft will be operated by a Guangzhou-based low-altitude transportation business. The all-electric V2000CG CarryAll has a payload capacity of up to 400 kg with a maximum cruising speed of 200 km per hour and a range of 200 km. It features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities and a fixed-wing cruising design, enabling its applications in low-altitude logistics, emergency response and other fields. Xie Jia, senior vice president of AutoFlight, said that the aircraft type has so far completed more than 40,000 km of safe flights over various terrains across China and other countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Japan, which help validate its performance and explore its potential application scenarios. The eVTOL's delivery comes as China's low-altitude economy is entering a stage of rapid growth. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, the market value of the sector will soar from 500 billion yuan (about 70 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023 to 1.5 trillion yuan in 2025, and that number could reach an astounding 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035. The airworthiness certificate (L), the production certificate (C) and the type certificate of the V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, are displayed at a delivery ceremony of the aircraft in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) Visitors have discussions next to the V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, at a delivery ceremony in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) A delivery ceremony for the V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is held in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) The V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, is pictured at a delivery ceremony in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) An aerial drone photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows the V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft on the apron in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) The V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, conducts a flight demonstration at a flight test base in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province, on July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) An aerial drone photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a flight test base for the V2000CG CarryAll, a tonne-class electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Kunshan, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) 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 Herald opinion writers Vivienne Skinner and Brad Emery discussed the pros and cons of lowering the voting age to 16 in Australia after Englands move to join Wales and Scotland (Sixteen is sweet to step up to the polls, An interest in politics is great, but only adults should be allowed to vote, July 23). I was delighted to read that independent MP Monique Ryan intends to bring a private members bill to parliament on this issue. Initially, I would support the vote for 16- and 17-year-olds to be voluntary, with a view to make it compulsory over time. Democracy worldwide is under pressure with elderly, self-serving leaders mainly concerned with holding on to power. In a world rapidly changing environmentally, socially and geopolitically, we have old men making decisions that will largely affect the young, who have no voice. This change would almost certainly increase the progressive vote, and may be why British PM Keir Starmer is putting it forward. It could work for Anthony Albanese, too. Now is the time to refresh our democracy and make our society as representative as the UKs. Andrew Caro, Greenwich Lowering the vote to 16 would force politicians to genuinely consider the needs of this ignored generation. Credit: Marija Ercegovac While there are thoughtful arguments each way, my feeling is that 16 is too young. People such as Tanya Plibersek and Monique Ryan move in relatively select society in which politics is of interest and importance, so perhaps have a biased view of how much ability and interest the average 16-year-old has. There is also the maturity factor, which is not necessarily based on chronological age. Let them reach at least 18, while encouraging them to become politically aware and hopefully more able to make reasoned, logical, responsible decisions. Augusta Monro, Dural I must challenge columnist Brad Emery on his assertion that 16 and 17-year-olds are considered minors in every other regulatory contexts. At 16, youths can legally have sex and bring children into the world (in most states) one of the most important decisions of their lives. At 16, you can register as an organ donor, get an abortion, get married (with permission), get a learners permit, apply for youth allowance, consent to medical and dental treatment, have your own Medicare card and work full-time. You only have to look at the School Strike 4 Climate protests, in which thousands of youths took part, to see the commitment that young Australian have to civic duty. I believe that the voting age should be lowered to 16 now. Bruce Welch, Marrickville Australia has one of the lowest ages of criminal responsibility in the Western world. If 10-year-olds can be tried as adults for crimes, then surely they should also be allowed to vote. Either they are capable of adult decisions, or they are not. Bart Fielden, Lindfield Marine tragedy The toxic algal bloom on South Australias coastline should indeed be taken seriously (Government all at sea on toxic algal bloom, July 23). The Great Barrier Reef has already suffered several mass bleachings, largely due to ocean warming. Now a widespread algal bloom has put South Australias Great Southern Reef under threat. It is heartbreaking to see the devastation of coastal treasures like the Coorong, which once had an abundance of thriving birdlife and wetland vegetation. Many readers will remember the iconic film Storm Boy, which was set in this location. Again, a marine heatwave was a major contributor. Environment Minister Murray Watt has finally decided to visit Adelaide with a pledge of $14 million to deal with the algal bloom disaster. But whats the point of Labor spending that money when at the same time it approves fossil fuel projects? The government must account for the effects of global warming when dealing with such disasters. Anne OHara, Wanniassa (ACT) Advertisement Gender writes Correspondent Ryszard Linkiewicz claims fewer boys read books nowadays because male authors have been purged from reading lists (Letters, July 23). But why should boys only be interested in stories written by men? At school, we girls read F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Joseph Conrad and other male authors. We read them despite the fact they were written by men, about men, with only the occasional one-dimensional female character to whom we might relate. It is sad that boys only have what Linkiewicz calls poorly written tripe by the likes of Helen Garner, Kate Grenville, A.S. Byatt, Doris Lessing and other women. What a pity that, according to him, those whose literacy skills develop more slowly cant find anything of interest in the works of such (female) giants of the literary canon. Gerianne Rudd, Toowong (Qld) There are several Australian male authors who are writing and publishing books now, all available to boys. Ive just finished Mark Brandis latest book Eden and have read his Wimmera and Southern Aurora, all of which have boys or men as the main characters, and are easy to read. Then theres also Tim Winton and Trent Dalton, plus Aaron Blabey with his graphic novels Bad Guys. The graphic novels in particular are a good way to encourage reading among boys and young men. Rosemary Wolf, Mount Warrigal Ernest Hemingways novels were prescribed reading for schoolgirls in the past. Ryszard Linkiewicz notes that NSW schools have replaced distinguished authors with poorly written tripe. I feel this has long been the case. Ryszard is lucky he didnt sit the HSC in 1970, when we studied such literary gems as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. So many hours of boredom. Trevor McCarroll, Gerringong No right to rule Yet more correspondents (Letters, July 23) resorting to disparaging statements such as sense of entitlement and their right to rule to attack Gisele Kapterian for exercising her right, on behalf of those who supported her, to ensure that in an incredibly close election, every voters true intention is properly accounted for. That is the entitlement of every candidate in our elections, and our system was established to enable that to happen. No one in this country has a right to rule, and even if they thought they did, it would be only to govern, not rule, and face their electors every three years. Peter Thornton, Killara Advertisement Reality lost The Israeli ambassador to Australia was very quick to admonish the Australian government, along with 27 other countries, for their call to end the Gaza war, saying they were disconnected from reality and it sends the wrong message to Hamas (Penny Wong: Israel condemnation channels Australians distress over Gaza, July 22). He conveniently forgets the reality that this whole catastrophe would not have happened had it not been for the abject failure of the Israeli government, the IDF, the Shin Bet (internal security service) and Mossad to protect Israel citizens from the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Perhaps hes the one disconnected from reality, and no amount of killing people seeking humanitarian aid is going to change that. Alexis Lander, Kensington Definition dilemma I read closely the piece by Adam Slomin about the definition of antisemitism. (Defining antisemitism is no threat to free speech. Without a definition, we are adrift, July 23). Unfortunately, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliances working definition of antisemitism would be more easily accepted if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netenyahu and his government also adopted that definition, instead of calling all criticism of Israels policies and actions antisemitic. If Israel cannot accept that definition as best practice, why should anyone else? Doug Richards, Tamarama I find it extraordinary that Herald correspondents should suggest that the best way to combat antisemitism is for Jews to publicly disassociate themselves from Israel (Letters, July 23). I doubt that these writers would say that Arabs or Muslims must publicly condemn Hamas, or the Syrian, Iranian, Saudi Arabian, Afghani or Indonesian regimes. What about Australians of Chinese, Russian or American origin or connections? Should they have to condemn their regimes? Opposition to particular actions by Israeli settlers or the government is not antisemitic as many Jewish people and Israelis prove. But the ideas that the Jewish state is uniquely evil and that all Jews are implicated in everything it does are, and should be, roundly rejected. John Sexton, Centennial Park Chinese Australians arent directed to unequivocally denounce the actions of the Chinese government in Tibet or Xinjiang or against Taiwan to stop harassment and firebombing and graffiti of their businesses and cultural centres, Dave Bailey (Letters, July 23). Indonesian Australians arent told to disassociate themselves from the worst things happening in West Papua to stop doxxing and protests directed at them at universities or art performances, Jennifer Briggs. Its only Jewish Australians who apparently deserve to suffer persecution for the actions of a foreign state. Richard Abram, Bexley Advertisement Victims of tobacco war On the illegal tobacco debate, I agree with the obvious premise that cigarettes cause harm, and cheap cigarettes keep people using them. But if the plan is simply to close down the illegal tobacco market, I worry for many habitual smokers on low incomes (Eviction, jail and fines for illegal tobacco sellers, July 23). As a psychologist, I work with a number of people on disability support pensions who live with severe mental illnesses. Cigarettes are a part of their way of life, and theyre just not interested in quitting. If they are forced to go back to highly taxed/priced legal cigarettes, they will forego food and other necessities in order to keep smoking. Ive seen this happen. Even though theyre well aware of the terrible health prospects, cigarettes nevertheless help many people to keep going. Sadly, theyre not keen on patches or gum. So, whatever is done about illegal cigarettes, allowances need to be made for many on low incomes who will continue smoking regardless. Otherwise their quality of life and mental health will crash. Jim Filshie, Kingsgrove Many habitual smokers would rather forgo food than give up. Credit: Wolter Peeters I hardly think any landlord is going to evict a retailer for selling illegal tobacco. I recall reading that these same sellers are offering landlords above market rates to rent their premises and with todays vacancy rates in strip retail shops, Id suggest it would be a rarity to see any landlord evict a tenant for anything apart from rent arrears. Barb La Ganza, North Narrabeen I think that tough legislation and penalties is the right approach rather than lowering the tax rate on tobacco products. However, it remains to be seen if the words will be put into action. It has been more than eleven years since smoking was banned in all cafes and restaurants, and I have seen little evidence of enforcement. Reports to Health NSW and local councils achieve nothing. Bob Edgar, Moss Vale HECS anomaly Ross Gittins quite rightly points out the stupidity of the Morrison governments Job Ready program, which resulted in arts degrees costing $50,000 (Cutting HECS debt is the least Albanese could do for young Australians, July 23). Why the new Labor government hasnt changed this policy is a mystery. Reducing students HECS debts by 20 per cent is a good start, but surely preventing future extreme and unfair tertiary debt must be on the agenda. As they say, its a no brainer. Eric Sekula, Turramurra Advertisement While the government tinkers with HECS debts in a rather ineffective attempt to reduce financial burdens on the young, it is quite amazing that university education in EU countries like France, Germany and Sweden is almost free. Furthermore, living allowances are provided which reduce the need to work part-time. Governments there heavily subsidise universities and the considerable benefit is little disincentive for university study even for the relatively poor. These policies obviously do much to reduce inequality. The secret is of course higher average taxation and the realisation that university degrees will result in higher salaries and thus more tax being paid during a lifetime of work. Geoff Harding, Chatswood Tax outrage There are certainly valid arguments for a tax on high-value family homes (Letters, July 23), but the government also urgently needs to address the miserable contributions from the oil and gas industry, among others. According to The Australia Institute and despite the industrys insistence that it pays substantial tax, nurses paid $7 billion more tax during the past 10 years than oil and gas companies paid in company tax and Petroleum Resource Rent Tax. In short, nurses paid $52 billion and the oil and gas companies $45 billion. Finally, the oil and gas industry exports 80 per cent of Australias gas, gets most of the gas it exports for free, is a small employer and pays little tax. It is hoped that Jim Chalmers economic summit will not be dominated by the usual rent seekers. Alison Stewart, Riverview Nurses paid $7 billion more tax during the past 10 years than oil and gas companies. Credit: Rob Homer Super changes The story in the Herald (Average pay of $240k to be hit by super tax, July 23) outlines a number of scenarios for people who will be hit by Labors superannuation tax changes. But what the report fails to mention is that both a husband and a wife can have $3 million each in super. It also doesnt ask the question why do people running a farm have the farm included in superannuation? Also, many farming families also have trust accounts, thus decreasing their taxable income. Its all legal but not an option for the average Australian. If everyone wants the Labor government to enact the policies it took to the recent election, then the money has to be found from somewhere, particularly as companies are not reinvesting to create growth in the economy. Peter Nelson, Moss Vale Advertisement Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun repeatedly told the councils former chief executive John Ajaka you work for me and demanded he sack employees as tensions spiralled in the months before Ajaka was abruptly axed from the organisations top job, an inquiry has heard. The NSW Office of Local Governments public inquiry into Liverpool City Council is scrutinising councillors conduct, as well as the councils handling of its finances, property purchases, staff employment, and more than $150 million in state government grants for infrastructure projects. Former Liverpool Council chief executive John Ajaka arrives at the inquiry into alleged dysfunction and maladministration at the council on Wednesday. Credit: Edwina Pickles Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig announced the inquiry last July after a scathing interim report detailed serious allegations of dysfunction and maladministration at the organisation. Weeks earlier, councillors ousted Ajaka, a former NSW Liberal minister and the councils 10th permanent or acting chief executive in eight years, following a dramatic falling out with Mannoun. The secondary risk is public exposure. Given the current containment of the cylinder within the trailers, this risk is presently low. However, if the trailers are interfered with or otherwise become insecure, or if the cylinders are illegally or improperly removed from the trailers, risk of harm to community safety from exposure is potentially significant, EPA acting director of regional operations Martha-Rose Loughnane wrote on March 31. Trucks filled with acetylene tanks allegedly abandoned in Merrimu. EPA is actively pursuing the alleged offender Nonetheless, EPA considers it unlikely that the alleged offender has the necessary means to achieve a timely and effective clean-up of the DA cylinders. The EPA has declined to name the person who is under investigation. Three sources familiar with the investigation but not authorised to speak publicly say the waste is linked to White, who is charged over the West Footscray fire, warehouse waste stockpiles, and the subterranean dump near Kaniva, close to the South Australian border. He has pleaded not guilty. The registration of one of the abandoned trucks was in the name of a company run by White in 2018, according to records obtained by The Age. White once held an exclusive contract with chemical giant BOC to recycle used acetylene tanks, but more than 50,000 were allegedly found buried at the bush property from 2011 to 2018. Potentially thousands of other tanks were never found or were destroyed in the 2018 West Footscray blaze. At Merrimu, aerial imagery shows at least 22 containers and trailers were stored on a farm property beginning in April 2022. Over a two-year period, most disappeared after being moved to an unknown location. Then, in March 2025, the last two trailers were taken from the farm and parked on council land about 500 metres down the road. The dumped waste has sparked a legal fight between the Moorabool Shire Council and the EPA, which has issued the council with a clean-up order. A bid to have the order stayed in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal last week failed. An affidavit from shire chief executive Derek Madden describes claims the EPA had known about the waste on the farm property for two years after receiving information and complaints from a local landowner. Six tiny trees along the South Perth foreshore that residents feared would block their million-dollar views will be ripped up after the local council voted in favour of aggrieved residents along one street. City of South Perth councillor Nic Coveney said he had met with over a dozen Jubilee Street residents concerned they could lose their multimillion-dollar views of the Perth skyline due to trees planted on the south side of Lake Douglas, between their backyards and the river. View a few metres from the boundary of one of the private properties, with the saplings circled. Credit: City of South Perth In a meeting on Tuesday night, councillors discussed Coveneys motion to request the chief executive at the city remove the juvenile trees, planted in June 2024, and instead plant 135 square metres of low-level planting as a comparative replacement. He also requested a councillor workshop to develop a policy on planting trees on public land by no later than January 1. A 39-year-old Willetton man has been caught allegedly trying to transfer $1million from a company to his own bank account while already on bail for alleged similar offending. Benjamin Paul Travia, 39, was denied bail the second time round by a Perth magistrate on Wednesday after a police prosecutor told the court the case against him was extremely strong and included CCTV footage at a business premises and electronic evidence. Benjamin Paul Travia, 39. Credit: LinkedIn Travia was arrested on Tuesday by the financial crimes squad and slapped with more than 70 charges of obtaining benefit by fraud. Police allege Travia fraudulently established lines of credit at three separate businesses between August 2024 and April 2025, resulting in goods totalling more than $500,000 being charged to a company he had no association with. Anger is rising among Labors base over the war in Gaza, with nearly 80 local branches passing motions over recent weeks calling for Australia to impose sanctions on the Netanyahu government and sever military ties with Israel. Australia joined 27 nations to demand an immediate end to the war and condemn Israels drip feeding of aid to Gaza on Tuesday, but pro-Palestine campaigners within Labor are calling for the government to go further and take concrete actions against the Israeli government. A pro-Palestine protest takes place on the lawns in front of Parliament House ahead of the opening of the 48th parliament. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer Seventy-eight Labor branches have passed motions calling for far-reaching sanctions against Israeli entities and individuals involved in the war and a two-way arms embargo on Israel, including the supply of military parts and components. The branches include one in Foreign Minister Penny Wongs home city of Adelaide and three in Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses Sydney electorate of Grayndler. Staring at perhaps three years of increasing irrelevance, Australias small and once-influential political parties have turned to their own internecine wars on the very day the lopsided 48th federal parliament opened for business pretty much as a Labor shopfront. The Greens have dropped one of their founders in an unedifying brawl over transgender policy and two Nationals warhorses are advocating abandonment of net zero emission targets just as both Coalition parties review their climate and energy policies following Peter Duttons thumping election defeat in May. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley in the House of Representatives on Wednesday. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer The Nationals self-absorption is unforgivable as the Liberals struggle to recapture their lost heartland by addressing modern-day problems, including climate change. No such concerns appear to bother perverse MPs from the Nationals heartland, where the effects of climate change, bushfires and floods are most pernicious. Former Nationals leaders and once-bitter rivals Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack have curiously joined forces to spruik dumping net zero emissions and publicly undermine leader David Littleproud. Out of nowhere, they have raised the spectre of a challenge just as Liberal leader Sussan Ley tries to project an image of unity so the Coalition can rediscover its mojo and become a credible opposition. Labor is hiding information from the public more often than the Morrison government despite campaigning on a platform of integrity, frustrating a critical accountability mechanism intended to maintain faith in bureaucrats and keep politicians honest. Analysis by the Centre for Public Integrity shows Canberras culture of secrecy has sunk to its worst point in more than a decade, with the proportion of freedom of information requests released in full plunging from almost half in 2021-22 to just 25 per cent under Labor in 2023-24. There was a big drop in FOI documents being released in full under Anthony Albanese. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer The government is increasingly releasing documents to the public filled with black ink covering up key sections of text and Labor is more often ignoring Senate votes requesting details on policies and ministers decision-making. Independent senator David Pocock said the data under Anthony Albaneses watch was shameful compared to the prime ministers predecessor, Scott Morrison. The Albanese government wants the war in Gaza to end immediately. So do the vast majority of Israelis, not that youd necessarily know that from Australias tribal and often frustratingly simplistic domestic political debate. Australia and 27 other countries this week signed a joint statement arguing that the war in Gaza must end now and condemning the Netanyahu governments aid delivery model. Israels foreign ministry and ambassador to Australia criticised the statement, as did the Coalition and local pro-Israel groups. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of continuing the war for political reasons. Credit: AP All statements and all claims should be directed at the only party responsible for the lack of a deal for the release of hostages and a ceasefire: Hamas, which started this war and is prolonging it, the Israeli foreign ministry said. In Israel itself, however, the idea that the war has gone on for far too long is utterly mainstream. As is the idea that the Netanyahu government bears at least partial responsibility for the failure to bring it to an end. Yi people celebrate torch festival in SW China's Yunnan People's Daily Online) 13:38, July 23, 2025 While scorching heat swept across much of China, people of the Yi ethnic group in southwest China's Yunnan Province, which is known for its cool summers, celebrated the Torch Festival on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. The Torch Festival is recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in China. People celebrate the Torch Festival on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo/Ma Dengke) The Torch Festival originated as a ritual practiced by the Yi people's ancestors to drive away pests, protect crops, and pray for health and good fortune. As night falls, a large torch is lit in the village, while each household lights smaller ones. People then carry these torches around their homes and fields. The most exciting part of the practice is hurling a mix of incense ash and rosin powder into the flames to convey blessings and goodwill. People celebrate the Torch Festival on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo/Ma Dengke) In certain villages in Dali, Yunnan, measuring tools made of paper are set atop tall torches. As the bamboo frames burn away, young men rush in to grab the paper containers, hoping to seize a bit of good fortune. As part of the celebration, people perform the Left Foot Dance, with hundreds of them joining hands in a great circle, singing and dancing to pray for a fruitful harvest. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) The NSW Liberals face a wicked problem. How does the party walk the political tightrope of being pro-housing at the same time many of their constituents, not to mention local councillors, remain wedded to one word: overdevelopment. As Sydney, and indeed the country, contends with a chronic shortage of homes, no NSW Liberal will feel this conundrum more acutely than Vaucluse MP Kellie Sloane. Overdevelopment, once the mainstay of local campaigning for both sides of politics, has morphed into the politically charged term NIMBYism. On the other side of the argument is YIMBYism, which is becoming synonymous with wanting to fix one of the greatest social problems of this generation. Vaucluse MP Kellie Sloane and the proposed Woollahra railway station. Credit: Monique Westermann Sloane, a moderate who is seen as a future leadership contender, has the seemingly impossible task of ensuring her party reflects the needs of modern Australia (which, as the federal election showed, the Liberals are failing to do) while representing the voters who put her into office. Examining one of Sloanes biggest obstacles to assuming the leadership paints a good picture of how hard her task will be. A major impediment to securing the top job is not a lack of talent, nor party room support. Rather, it is the name of her seat. Its the middle of winter. Your team is in the toilet. Everyone is a critic, and you get some of the blame. The bloke who has been lumping around the forward line getting in the way and not helping much is about to go to another club St Kilda for goodness sake for more money than you are getting. A lot more. A bloke who used to be at your club is running around enjoying himself at the Western Bulldogs. Everything looks easier somewhere else. Charlie Curnow might have considered a move to the Gold Coast Suns, but it wont happen. Credit: Stephen Kiprillis via Getty Images And then you see it. The ad. You flick a page and there it is: a picture of a beach. And sun. And you think, bloody hell, Byron Bay was beautiful during the bye. I just wonder ... Charlie Curnow would like to play for Gold Coast. Not that he has formally told Carlton or the Gold Coast that. The Wallabies will persist with Jake Gordon and Tom Lynagh in the halves for the second Test against the British and Irish Lions, as coach Joe Schmidt prepares to roll out a powerful 6-2 bench split in anticipation of wet weather at the MCG. There is no sense of panic in the Wallabies camp following last weeks 27-19 defeat in Brisbane, but with the series on the line, Schmidt is doubling down on the players who helped restore some credibility during a spirited second-half showing at Suncorp Stadium. Despite calls for halfback Tate McDermott to be paired with his Queensland Reds teammate in Lynagh, Gordon is set to retain the No.9 jersey a move welcomed by former Wallabies halfback Nick Phipps. I think at the moment, Tates ability to unlock that defence at the back-end of a game is stronger than him starting and Jake trying to do that later, Phipps said on Stan Sports Inside Lion show. US President Donald Trumps nomination of a right-wing provocateur with a history of making Islamophobic remarks as his man in Muslim-majority Malaysia has gone down, of course, like a lead balloon. Protests in Kuala Lumpur against would-be ambassador Nick Adams kicked off last week and will probably return if he is waved through as expected in an upcoming Senate confirmation hearing. Nick Adams, Donald Turmps pick to be US ambassador to Malaysia, is a self-described alpha male and conservative commentator. Credit: Nick Adams, Instagram Adams, an Australian-accented, naturalised American who self-identifies as an alpha male with oozing masculine confidence and charisma, fawned his way into the US presidents favour as a brash, conservative pundit and MAGAsphere influencer. Braggadocio aside, the main reason Malaysians are upset at his nomination to their country, of all places is his hostility to the plight of Palestine, a cause close to the hearts of millions of Malaysians, and his history of making Islamophobic remarks, which includes denigrating Trumps rivals as supporters of Islam and critiquing efforts to teach Islam in schools. Kyiv: Thousands of people gathered in the streets of the Ukraine capital to protest moves by President Volodymyr Zelenskys government to weaken anti-corruption institutions, in the countrys first major anti-government demonstration in more than three years of war. The protest outside the presidents office in central Kyiv on Tuesday night, including civilians and soldiers, was the most significant fracture in the national unity that has helped Ukraine survive a gruelling and bloody fight against a Russian invasion. A woman holds a phone during a protest in central Kyiv on Tuesday against a law aimed at regulating anti-corruption bodies. Credit: AP The government did not immediately make a statement on the gathering. My husband is in the trenches, and this is not what they are fighting for, said Kateryna Amelina, 31. This could be the destruction of 10 years of work by civil society. London: Police are being blamed for bringing rival protesters together at a violent clash over asylum seekers in a small town north of London, heightening an explosive dispute about where to house thousands of people crossing the English Channel. Essex Police admitted they escorted refugee advocates towards a hotel being used to house asylum seekers, just as anti-migrant demonstrators gathered outside the venue to demand its closure. Police officers run at protesters near the Bell Hotel in Epping on Sunday. Credit: Getty Images The admission about the demonstrations in Epping Forest, where protests have turned violent over several nights, came as crowds gathered outside a similar asylum hotel in Norfolk in a bid to stop it housing single young migrant men. With the angry scenes making headlines for days, those opposed to the hotels are using social media to identify venues that are housing the new arrivals, spreading word of future protests. That income ended, officials say, when Israel imposed a blockade in March, and then began using the GHF, set up jointly by the US and Israel, to run aid hubs and bypass UN-run distributions. Loading The UN, the European Commission and major international aid organisations have said they have no evidence that Hamas has systematically stolen their aid. The Israeli government has not provided proof. Twenty-eight countries, including Britain, condemned the new aid arrangements this week amid widespread reports of starvation and hundreds of people being shot as they tried to get food. The countries joint statement described as horrifying the recent deaths of over 800 Palestinians who were seeking aid, according to the figures released by Gazas Health Ministry, which is run by Hamas, and the UN human rights office. The Israeli governments aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity, the countries said. The Israeli governments denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable. Palestinian health officials have said at least 101 people have died of hunger during the conflict, most of them in recent weeks. Palestinians ride on an aid truck heading into Gaza City on Tuesday. Credit: AP Food that does arrive in the coastal Strip is often sold and resold at extortionate prices, said Rabiha Abdel Aziz, a 75-year-old mother of nine living in a displacement camp in western Gaza. I dont know how people can eat, she told the London Telegraph, explaining that the family can no longer even afford a kilo of flour, which currently costs $53. She said: My grandchildren wake up in the morning and ask me for a piece of bread that we dont have Where will we get the money to buy food at this price? We are dying of hunger and bombing. People collapse in the streets Salem Jehad, a father of four who is living in a camp west of Gaza City, said he was unable to find milk for his newborn son. He said: All my children have lost half their weight, and I am the same. Most people dont have money. Two years without work during the war, with the crossings closed and aid entering scarcely, people are collapsing in the streets from weakness and hunger. We drink water with salt to satisfy our hunger. A Palestinian woman feeds her children at a tent sheltering a displaced family in central Gaza City. Credit: AP Jehad said access to food had dramatically worsened since GHF took over the distribution, and he wanted a return to the previous UN-run model. The UN said on Tuesday that Israeli forces had killed more than 1000 Palestinians trying to get food aid in Gaza since the GHF began operations in May. Hamas strategy relied on the suffering of Gazans when this failed, it foolishly doubled down because it had nothing else in its toolbox to deal with Israels ferocious reaction to October 7. Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, Realign for Palestine Aid distributions have been marred by chaotic scenes and frequent reports of Israeli forces firing on people waiting to collect rations. Israels military has disputed previous death tolls, but has said its troops have at times fired warning shots, and it is investigating accusations of civilian deaths. Jehad said: Now we are running into death traps. Gazans are dying to bring a kilo of flour and rice. Hamas mistake over strategy of suffering Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, who leads the Realign for Palestine lobby group, said that Hamas had counted on the humanitarian crisis to bring the war to an end. He told The Washington Post: Hamas strategy relied on the suffering of Gazans. But when this strategy failed, it foolishly doubled down on this approach, in large part because it had nothing else in its toolbox to deal with Israels ferocious reaction to October 7 and the worlds inability to stop it. Smoke rises following an Israeli air strike in northern Gaza. Credit: AP Lior Akerman, the head of national resilience at the Institute for Policy and Strategy (IPS) at Reichman University, and a former chief of staff in Shin Bet, Israels MI5, said Hamas had almost completely disintegrated in the Gaza Strip. All the senior commanders were killed and all the frameworks of the fighting disintegrated, he said Today, in the absence of commanders, Hamas members in the Gaza Strip are operating like independent, armed militias. Tents sheltering displaced Palestinians are seen amid war-damaged buildings in Gaza City. Credit: AP In every area, the terrorists continue to do the best they can with the weapons they possess, and they are effectively waging a guerrilla war against the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). This type of fighting could last for years and wear down the IDF in a never-ending war. Truce negotiations held up Israel and Hamas are holding indirect talks in Doha aimed at reaching a 60-day truce and a hostage release deal. But there has been no sign of a deal yet, and discussions have reportedly been held up by Hamas negotiators in Doha being unable to reach representatives in Gaza since late last week. Loading Ronen Solomon, an Israeli intelligence analyst, said as Hamas had been degraded in Gaza, the groups centre of gravity had shifted abroad. He said that with only Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, commander of the Gaza City Brigade, remaining as a senior figure in Gaza, a dramatic change has occurred. The centre of gravity shifted from the Strip to Hamas abroad, he said. And in particular to Khalil al-Khayya, who was very much involved in the planning of October 7 and continues to lead an extremist line from the Hamas base in Qatar. Michael Wolff: These were 80s guys, from a moment when having money forgave anything. Credit: Dan Callister / Alamy Stock Photo [Threatening disclosure] was a typical Trump blow-hard kind of thing, Wolff says. According to his reportage, Trump and Epstein were at one time even closer than had been previously thought. Trump and Epstein, wealthy and connected men of similar ages, mixed in similar fields and socialised together frequently. They were on several occasions spotted at the same parties. In 2002, Trump called Epstein a terrific guy in a New York Magazine profile, adding that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side. In audio files previously released on Wolffs Fire and Fury podcast, Epstein said he had been Trumps best friend for 10 years; Wolff has also said Trumps nickname for Epstein was Jeffy. From 1988-89 through to 2004, Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump were the best friends, Wolff, 71, says over the phone from his home in the Hamptons. They had the same interests. They did the same things, pursued the same activities, pursued very often the same women. Michael Wolff These were 80s guys, from a moment when having money forgave anything and everybody idolised anybody who had money. Having money gave you this extraordinary entitlement. This was the last blush of what it is to be a playboy. They had the money, the planes, the total disregard of middle-class rules ... They had the same interests. They did the same things, pursued the same activities, pursued very often the same women. Someone called me the other day and said, You dont mean Trump was interested in little girls? I said, No but they [Trump and Epstein] were both obsessed with models. They started modelling agencies, invested in modelling agencies. Trump has his beauty pageants, Epstein had the Victorias Secret stuff [Epstein was an adviser to Les Wexner, the Victorias Secret boss]. Wolff says the friendship centred on Palm Beach, Florida, where Epstein and Trump were neighbours. Epstein had this set of a dozen Polaroids of Trump around Epsteins swimming pool, Wolff recalls. He alleges the images were held in Epsteins safe, which the FBI seized when they raided his homes in New York and Palm Beach in July 2019. Trump appears on the cover of Playboy in 1990. I remember three of them vividly. Two of the pictures had topless girls sitting in Trumps lap, and one where Trump has a stain on the front of his [trousers] and three or five topless girls are pointing at it and laughing. These guys defined each other. Epstein is the best window through which to understand Trump. Last week, a report in The Wall Street Journal alleged that Trump sent Epstein a card on his 50th birthday in 2003, with a drawing of a naked woman and inscribed may every day be another wonderful secret. Trump immediately denied doing so, claiming: Its not my language ... its not my words. He added he did not draw pictures of women. In the wake of the story, the White House has banned the WSJ from covering an upcoming trip to Scotland due to fake and defamatory conduct, and Trump has moved to sue the Rupert Murdoch-owned publication for $US10 billion ($15.3 billion). The president has spoken of being subjected to a witch-hunt. Loading On Monday, White House communications director Stephen Cheung said Trump once kicked Epstein out of his club for being a creep and called allegations about him recycled, old fake news. After decades of friendship, in 2004, Trump and Epstein had what Wolff describes as an acrimonious falling out over a real estate deal, so they were not close during Epsteins alleged crimes at the so-called Epstein Island, Little St James in the US Virgin Islands. It was after that that criminal accusations first started to gather around Epstein, culminating in a 13-month prison sentence for prostitution in 2008. In 2014, Epstein approached Wolff, a highly respected New York journalist who had been the media columnist of Vanity Fair, with a view to being written about. Wolff had just begun writing about Trump, work which would form the basis of Fire and Fury, the first of his accounts of the presidents time in the White House. Epstein said you can ask me anything, I have nothing to hide, and you judge for yourself whether Im honest, Wolff recalls. After a couple of pretty damn interesting conversations, Wolff began attending the events that Epstein held at his mansion on the Upper East Side, thought to be one of the largest private residences in New York. The FBI recently confirmed Prince Andrew would face no further action over his links to Epstein. Credit: PA/AP It was kind of extraordinary, Wolff says. The people there were amazing. From Bill Gates to Ehud Barak [former Israeli prime minister] to Larry Summers [former US treasury secretary], just one person after another. Prince Andrew? Yeah, Wolff says. Epstein conducted these things at his dining table. People came in from morning until night. There were very few women; it had a mens club feel to it. But it was kind of irresistible, frankly, and I confess to having a good time. The subjects were foreign policy, the economy. No girls, that was never a topic. Then in 2015, when Trump started to run [for the presidency], Epstein started to talk about his relationship with Trump, which was eye-opening. I was starting to write about Trump, so it was very valuable. In 2017, [Epstein] became friends with Steve Bannon, and they bonded over their mutual obsession-slash-hatred of Trump. They talked about Trump all the time. Loading As the authorities closed in on Epstein before his arrest in 2019, he remained in touch with Wolff. In a piece from 2020, The Last Days of Jeffrey Epstein, Wolff details the acrimony between Epstein and Trump. Epstein refers to Trump as a moron, and makes derogatory claims about his leadership style. He lets someone else be in charge, until other people realise that someone else is in charge. When that happens, youre no longer in charge. After the fallout over their property deal, Wolff says Epstein came to believe it was Trump, who had close relations with Florida law enforcement, who turned Epstein in before he was jailed for soliciting prostitutes in 2008. In the same piece, Wolff quotes Bannon telling Epstein he was the only person he was afraid of during Trumps first presidential campaign, implying he believed the financier knew dangerous secrets about Trump. As well you should have been, Epstein is reported to have replied. It was during Trumps presidency that Epstein was arrested. Wolffs own relationship with Epstein had a macabre denouement. The last message he wrote appears to be to me, Wolff says. He died on Saturday morning, and I got the message on Friday evening. I had written a note through his lawyers asking how he was doing. The message was pretty crazy. But still hanging around no pun intended. Then he died with the bedsheet around his neck a few hours later. It was very weird. The circumstances of Epsteins death have become a lightning rod for conspiracy theorists. He was found in the early hours of August 10, 2019, hanging off the side of his cells bed. The official ruling was a suicide by hanging, but Epsteins lawyers challenged that account. Two guards who were meant to check on him had fallen asleep, and two CCTV cameras in front of his cell malfunctioned at the critical moment. Surveys have suggested that only 15 per cent of Americans believe Epstein died by suicide. When the US Department of Justice finally released a tape of events that evening two weeks ago, analysts found that nearly three minutes had been cut out. It seems implausible that he could have killed himself in the way they say he would have had to have killed himself, Wolff says. But equally implausible that he would have been murdered and all of the people, the FBI agents and assistant US attorneys, would either know something or keep quiet about it. I dont know. In the years since Epsteins death, Wolff has tried to draw attention to what he claims was the true extent of his relationship with Trump. But he has not gained much traction. Ive been trying to place this stuff for a long time. Wolff says, describing how he has pitched larger treatments of his endless amounts of recordings countless times, only for the plug to be pulled at the last minute. Its so compelling that everyones always interested, but executives decide its too complicated and controversial. Because as soon as you start to deal with Epstein as a person with multiple dimensions, instead of just this evil guy, it freaks everybody out. He says he thinks partly the press has not been willing to further confront Trumps friendship with Epstein. There has been, among the respectable press, a view that this subject is too icky, Wolff says. Good people dont discuss this. Hes the president of the United States; how can you link him to the president of the United States without evidence? It has something to do with the fact that there is not the language in the post MeToo world to discuss sex. You have to talk about sex, you have to make distinctions between girls and women, [and] talk about the complicated idea of consent of victims. Its very hard in the recent climate. People dont know how to approach this, he adds. They think its going to be too hot to handle, the right wing is going to yell at us and the left wing is going to yell at us and the women are going to yell at us and Trump is going to yell at us. PHILIPSBURG:--- In St. Maarten, justice is not just delayedit is often denieddue to a glaring procedural flaw: the requirement for an official complaint to initiate criminal investigations. Even when oversight bodies like the SOAB (Stichting Overheidsaccountantsbureau) and the Integrity Chamber uncover blatant illegalities, such as corruption in the issuance of bus and taxi licenses, the Prosecutor's office cannot act without a formal complaint from a competent authority. This bureaucratic hurdle not only obstructs justice but also enables a culture of impunity, where those in power can gaslight the public into believing that justice is being served, while in reality, nothing is being done. The SOAB and the Integrity Chamber are critical watchdogs, tasked with identifying corruption and illegal practices. Their reports, often the result of painstaking investigations, provide detailed evidence of fraud, abuse of power, and systemic corruption. In the case of the illegal issuance of bus and taxi licenses, these reports likely expose a web of bribery, kickbacks, and regulatory failures. But heres the catch: these reports, no matter how damning, are powerless to trigger legal action. The Prosecutor's office requires an official complaint from a high-ranking government official, such as the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT) or the Prime Minister. Without this formal step, the reports remain just thatreports, with no consequences for those implicated. Gaslighting the Public: A Smokescreen of Inaction The requirement for an official complaint creates fertile ground for gaslightinga tactic where the public is misled into believing that justice is being pursued. At the same time, behind the scenes, no meaningful action is taken. Officials may point to the existence of oversight reports as evidence of accountability, all while refusing to take the critical step of filing a formal complaint. This deliberate inaction not only undermines the work of oversight bodies but also erodes public trust in the government and the legal system. The public is left in a state of confusion and frustration, wondering why clear evidence of corruption has not led to arrests, prosecutions, or reforms. The answer is simple: without an official complaint, the Attorney Generals hands are tied. Gaslighting does not bring justice, but it perpetuates a cycle of inaction and impunity. The Legal Framework: A Double-Edged Sword St. Maartens legal framework is designed to ensure that investigations are initiated based on credible and formal allegations, rather than politically motivated claims. While this safeguard is essential for upholding the rule of law, it also creates a significant barrier to justice. Even when oversight bodies uncover blatant illegalities, the Prosecutors cannot act unless a formal complaint is filed. This procedural requirement stands in stark contrast to the Dutch legal system, where prosecutors can initiate investigations based on credible information from various sources, including media reports, public tips, or regulatory findings. In St. Maarten, however, the absence of a formal complaint effectively paralyzes the justice system, allowing corruption to thrive unchecked. The Process: A Bureaucratic Maze Once an official complaint is filed, the Prosecutor's office reviews the evidence to determine whether the allegations constitute criminal offenses under St. Maartens laws. If sufficient grounds exist, the case is handed over to investigative authorities, such as the National Detectives (Landsrecherche). Judicial oversight ensures that investigative actions, such as searches or detentions, comply with legal standards and respect individual rights. But heres the problem: without that initial complaint, none of this can happen. The reports from the SOAB and the Integrity Chamber, no matter how incriminating, remain powerless to instigate change. This procedural hurdle not only delays justice but also sends a dangerous message: that corruption can thrive as long as no one in power is willing to condemn it formally. The Exception: Crimes Against Minors The only scenario in which the Prosecutors' office can bypass the need for a formal complaint is when a crime is committed against a minor. In such cases, the legal system allows for immediate action to protect the most vulnerable members of society. While this exception is commendable, it highlights the rigidity of the system in all other cases, where even glaring evidence of corruption cannot prompt action without adhering to bureaucratic formalities. The Cost of Inaction: A Breeding Ground for Corruption The requirement for an official complaint creates a dangerous loophole. It allows high-ranking officials to avoid accountability by simply refusing to file a complaint, even when presented with overwhelming evidence of wrongdoing. This inaction not only undermines the work of oversight bodies but also erodes public trust in the government and the legal system. In the case of the illegal issuance of bus and taxi licenses, reports from the SOAB and the Integrity Chamber are likely to detail corruption that affects public services, economic fairness, and societal trust. Yet, without a formal complaint, these findings will gather dust, and those responsible will continue to operate with impunity. A Call to Action: Accountability Starts at the Top The responsibility to file an official complaint lies with high-ranking government officials, such as the Minister of TEATT or the Prime Minister. Their inaction sends a clear message: that corruption is tolerated, and justice is optional. This is unacceptable in a democratic society that claims to uphold the rule of law. Gaslighting the public with empty promises and inaction is not a substitute for justice. Oversight bodies, such as the SOAB and the Integrity Chamber, have done their part by uncovering the truth. Now, its up to the government to act. Filing an official complaint is not just a procedural stepits a moral obligation to ensure justice, restore public trust, and uphold the integrity of St. Maartens institutions. Justice Delayed Is Justice Denied The current system in St. Maarten, which requires an official complaint to initiate criminal investigations, is a double-edged sword. While it safeguards against frivolous or politically motivated claims, it also creates a significant barrier to justice. In cases like the illegal issuance of bus and taxi licenses, this procedural hurdle allows corruption to thrive unchecked. Gaslighting the public into believing that justice is being served, while refusing to take the necessary steps to initiate investigations, is a betrayal of the peoples trust. Its time for high-ranking officials to step up and fulfill their duty to the people of St. Maarten. Filing an official complaint is not just a legal formalityits a necessary step to ensure that justice is served and that the rule of law prevails. Without it, the reports from oversight bodies like the SOAB and the Integrity Chamber will remain toothless, and the cycle of corruption will continue unabated. Justice requires action, not excuses. And gaslighting? That only serves to deepen the wounds of a society already struggling to trust its leaders. PHILIPSBURG:--- In a fiery and unapologetic response to the Integrity Chamber and SOAB reports, former Minister of TEATT, Arthur Leo Lambriex, has laid bare his side of the story, defending his tenure and the controversial policies he implemented to combat corruption in St. Maartens public transport sector. Lambriexs statement is not just a defense, its a scathing critique of the system he inherited and the forces he believes are working against progress. A Fight Against Corruption Lambriex asserts that his primary goal as Minister was to end the rampant corruption and exploitation tied to the renting of taxi and bus licenses. He claims that before his tenure, the system was riddled with irregularities, with licenses being rented out for as much as $800 per month. This practice, he argues, enriched a select few while leaving the government without revenue and the poorer population vulnerable. By implementing stricter policies and reinstating checks and balances, Lambriex says he put an end to this help chauffeur racket, allowing individuals to invest in their own vehicles and regain control over their livelihoods. The Numbers Dont Lie Lambriex doesnt shy away from the financial implications of his reforms. He breaks down the math: a single rented permit could generate $9,600 annually, or $96,000 over a decade. For families or individuals holding multiple permits, the earnings could easily reach millions. By curbing this practice, Lambriex claims to have disrupted a lucrative but exploitative system, which he believes is the real reason behind the backlash hes facing. Incomplete Files and Internal Sabotage One of the key criticisms in the SOAB report is the presence of incomplete files and a lack of proper checks and balances. Lambriex, however, flips the narrative, accusing senior officials within the ministry of removing these safeguards long before his tenure. He claims to have identified the issue and instructed that the checks and balances be reinstated, only to be blamed for their absence. He further alleges that internal corruption and deliberate misinformation have been used to discredit him, with certain individuals within the ministry working to cover their tracks. Lambriex is adamant that full reports and investigations should be made public, arguing that selective disclosure only serves to mislead the public and protect those truly at fault. He questions why dormant or inactive licenses have not been revoked, despite policies being in place to do so, and suggests that certain families or individuals may be benefiting from this inaction. Beyond the specific issues of public transport licenses, Lambriex takes aim at the broader governance of St. Maarten. He questions the lack of legislative progress since the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, the continued reliance on outdated laws, and the decision to enter into financial arrangements with Curacao despite longstanding grievances. He also challenges the lack of action on laws allowing non-Antillean residents to apply for public transport permits, asking why these have not been amended if his policies were so problematic. Throughout his statement, Lambriex invokes a higher power, expressing confidence that the truth will prevail. God doesnt sleep. God doesnt like ugly, he says, suggesting that those who have acted dishonestly will eventually face consequences. He maintains that his conscience is clear and that his actions, while perhaps unpopular, were necessary to address systemic corruption and exploitation. Bold decisions and significant controversy clearly marked Lambriexs tenure as Minister of TEATT. While he frames his actions as a necessary crusade against corruption, his critics argue that his policies were flawed and poorly implemented. What is clear, however, is that Lambriex is not backing down. His statement is a challenge to his detractors and a call for accountability across the board. As the dust settles, one thing is certain: the issues Lambriex has raisedcorruption, governance, and the exploitation of the vulnerableare not going away anytime soon. Whether his legacy will be seen as one of reform or controversy remains to be seen, but for now, Lambriex is standing firm, unapologetic, and defiant. As the days pass and August 1 approaches the deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump for trade negotiations the EU is growing weary of Washingtons negotiating methods. The latest news from talks among member states does not exactly point to an agreement. There is a growing consensus that the situation is unsatisfactory, European diplomatic sources state, in the belief that preparations for potential failure must be accelerated. Other delegations and institutions point to similar sentiments. This translates into the need to prepare for the additional tariffs already in the pipeline levies on U.S. products worth some 92 billion ($108 billion) and to move on to finalizing additional countermeasures, such as taxing trade in services, which would trigger the anti-coercion mechanism. The latest U.S. offer would set horizontal and general tariffs of between 15% and 20% on all imports from the EU, according to sources familiar with the latest steps in the talks. In this scenario, there would be exceptions for several generic drugs and medical devices, the aeronautical sector, some spirits (excluding wine, which would greatly reduce its impact), and industrial products that are difficult to find on the other side of the Atlantic. In contrast, the sectoral investigations the U.S. administration has initiated target sectors such as pharmaceuticals on which Trump has threatened to impose 200% tariffs and semiconductors. When European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic spoke about these products to member state ambassadors at their last meeting, the reception was lukewarm. Its not something we could accept, notes someone familiar with the meeting, adding: Im not optimistic. Along the same lines, some say they perceive more pessimism among EU partners. And this, coupled with the methods of negotiation and some rebuffs, means that the mood is changing, with a tendency to resort to the full range of possible responses, according to a third diplomatic source. Sefcovic has traveled to Washington half a dozen times since Trumps return to the White House, with his threats of a trade war, to meet with U.S. negotiators. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has led the way. On Tuesday, Bessent told Fox News that Washington is about to announce a rash of trade deals in the coming days, but did not specify whether the European Union was among them. August 1, a hard deadline The U.S. Treasury Secretary also insisted that August 1, unilaterally set by Trump once it became clear he wouldnt be able to fulfill his previous threat (a truce that was scheduled to expire on July 9), is a pretty hard deadline [...] for all countries, because what I think will happen is that the tariff level will boomerang back to the reciprocal level from April 2. That doesnt mean we cant negotiate when the countries are at the higher level. When Trump missed his own July 9 deadline, he launched a letter-writing campaign to 25 countries and the EU. He wrote to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on July 12. In the letter, he threatened Europe with 30% tariffs if there was no agreement by August 1 and warned of counter-reactions if Brussels retaliated. If you read the letter, you see the definition of coercion. This is a threat and it is not acceptable. The European Union, as an economic power, must command the respect of the United States and China if it truly wants to be respected, EU sources point out. Its no coincidence that this source uses the term coercion. In order to activate the EUs anti-coercion mechanism, a legal tool that opens up a wide range of sanctions beyond trade (it can punish the exchange of services, but also veto public procurement, prohibit the sale of certain products, or prohibit investments), the Commission must demonstrate that economic coercion exists. One aspect on which several of the sources consulted agree is that everything that has happened in recent weeks has led several European capitals to harden their stance, including Berlin. Germany has been one of the strongest supporters of an agreement, but the lack of results for its export sectors (particularly automotives) may have led it to this position. However, Berlin officially continues to insist that an agreement with the U.S. administration that reflects the interests of all parties is needed. Trade barriers harm both parties equally, the German Ministry of Economy simply states. However, EU sources familiar with recent meetings in Brussels point to a hardening of its stance, something that will be evident this Wednesday during the visit that French President Emmanuel Macron a hardliner in the trade war will pay to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin. The European Commission has strengthened to act in the case of failure. Despite everything, Brussels maintains the official line it has championed since the trade war broke out: absolute priority given to negotiations to find an agreed solution and advance preparations for a possible rebuttal. Its trade spokesperson, Olof Gill, has stuck to this premise: In the current situation, the intention is not to launch any rebuttal, neither on the first nor the second list, before the August 1 deadline announced by the United States, he explained, referring to the two groups of products on which the EU intends to impose tariffs (one of 20 billion and the other of 72 billion) if there is no solution. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition PHILIPSBURG:--- Sint Maarten conservationist and marine biologist Tadzio Bervoets will appear in the Discovery Channels Shark Week special Legend of the Devil Shark, airing this Saturday at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. The episode, filmed in part on the Saba Bank, explores the myths and realities surrounding so-called devil sharks in the Caribbean, blending science, cultural storytelling, and marine conservation. For viewers in the region, the program offers a rare opportunity to see familiar waters showcased on an international platform, while also highlighting the global significance of local marine conservation efforts. This will be Bervoets second appearance on Shark Week. His first was in July 2016, when he joined scientists and conservationists from across the Dutch Caribbean during the height of the Save Our Sharks campaign. That initiative, which contributed to the establishment of the Yarari Marine Mammal and Shark Sanctuary, resulted in enhanced protections for sharks in the territorial waters of several Caribbean islands, including Sint Maarten. At the time, Bervoets served as director of the Sint Maarten Nature Foundation. They played a crucial role in developing shark conservation policies and advocating for the islands designation as a shark sanctuary. He also worked to build local awareness through education programs. He was one of the first in the region to implement a tagging program to study shark movements and behavior in territorial waters. His involvement in 'Legend of the Devil Shark' highlights not only the growing interest in Caribbean shark populations but also the increasing recognition of the region's role in broader conservation conversations. The episode follows Bervoets, along with marine scientist Dr. Austin Gallagher and journalist Kinga Philipps, as they investigate reports of unusually large tiger sharks around Saba and speak with local fishers about generations-old stories of dangerous devil sharks. Beneath the surface drama of the show lies a deeper message about the importance of preserving apex predators that play a crucial role in the health of coral reef ecosystems. While much of the Caribbean still faces pressure from overfishing and poorly enforced marine protection, initiatives led by conservationists like Bervoets have helped shift public perception and policymaking. His continued involvement in science communication and regional conservation efforts brings needed visibility to the challenges and opportunities facing small island marine environments. The fact that this latest installment of Shark Week includes extensive footage from Sabas watersand features a conservationist from the Dutch Caribbeanis a point of quiet but meaningful significance. Legend of the Devil Shark airs on the Discovery Channel on Saturday evening and will be available for streaming on Max shortly thereafter. Trump admin unveils AI strategy to maintain US dominance Washington, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 The Trump administration on Wednesday unveiled an aggressive, low-regulation strategy boosting big tech's race to stay ahead of China on artificial intelligence and cement the United States' dominance in the fast-expanding field. The 25-page "America's AI Action Plan" outlines three aims: accelerating innovation, building infrastructure, and leading internationally on AI. Overall, the administration frames AI advancement as critical to maintaining economic and military supremacy. Environmental consequences in the planning document are sidelined. "We believe we're in an AI race... and we want the United States to win that race," said the White House's AI point person David Sacks in a call with reporters. President Donald Trump was expected to announce the plan in a speech later Wednesday. According to US media reports, Trump was also to announce a series of executive orders to give key components of the plan additional legal weight. In its collection of more than 90 government proposals, the plan calls for sweeping deregulation, with the administration promising to "remove red tape and onerous regulation" that could hinder private sector AI development. Much of that work has already been caried out through a Trump executive order repealing the AI policies of the Biden administration. The Trump action plan also calls for AI systems to be "free from ideological bias" and designed to pursue objective truth rather than what the administration calls "social engineering agendas." This criterion would apply to AI companies wanting to do business with the US government. A senior White House official said the main target was AI models that gave attention to diversity and inclusion concerns in programming their model output -- reflecting the Trump administration's anti-"woke" agenda. A major focus in the plan involves building AI infrastructure, including streamlined permitting for data centers and energy facilities that would overlook environmental concerns in the name of building AI capability as swiftly as possible. AI "challenges America to build vastly greater energy generation than we have today," the plan said. The administration, which largely rejects international science showing a growing climate crisis, proposes creating new environmental review exemptions for data center construction and expanding access to federal lands for AI infrastructure development. Addressing fears that AI will replace humans and create mass job losses across entire sectors, the administration's plan says instead that "AI will improve the lives of Americans by complementing their work -- not replacing it." The strategy calls for efforts to "counter Chinese influence in international governance bodies" and strengthen export controls on advanced AI computing technology. The plan also proposes evaluating Chinese AI models "for alignment with Chinese Communist Party talking points and censorship." At the same time, the strategy calls on the government to champion US technology in conquering overseas markets. These plans will help "ensure America sets the technological gold standard worldwide, and that the world continues to run on American technology," US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement. German government moves to speed up military procurement Berlin, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Germany's government on Wednesday approved a draft bill to speed up military procurement as Berlin moves to build up its armed forces in the face of wavering US commitment to European security. The plans would make it easier for defence firms to receive advance payments from the state to start production sooner, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius told journalists. Contracts worth less than 443,000 euros ($520,000) will also be exempt from the full procurement process, up from a current limit of 15,000 euros, Pistorius said. The threshold will rise to one million euros for construction projects, he added. He said the proposed bill represented a "quantum leap" for Germany's armed forces, unblocking progress on about 12,000 procurement processes. The changes will address the "jumble of regulations" that hindered "quickly building up Germany's defence readiness", he added. Presenting the bill alongside Pistorius, Economy Minister Katherina Reiche said Germany needed to become "technologically and industrially stronger than potential aggressors". "That is how we preserve peace," Reiche added. Berlin has rushed to rearm itself following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, accelerating that process after US President Donald Trump urged Europe to take more responsibility for its own defence. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has vowed to build Europe's "strongest conventional army" to counter a perceived threat from Moscow. That represents a radical shift in a country with strong pacifist traditions due to its Nazi past. Spending on Germany's armed forces is expected to reach 162 billion euros in 2029, more than triple Germany's defence budget before the war in Ukraine. To become law, the cabinet's draft bill still needs to be passed by Germany's parliament. Iran says it confronted US destroyer in Gulf Tehran, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Iranian forces confronted a US destroyer in the Gulf on Wednesday, warning it to stay out of waters claimed by Tehran, state television reported Thursday -- a month after US strikes on the Islamic republic. An Iranian army helicopter flew over the USS Fitzgerald at about 10:00 am (0630 GMT) after the vessel "attempted to approach the waters under the supervision" of Iran, the broadcaster said. The destroyer issued threats of its own, state TV said, adding however that "the Iranian pilot firmly continued the mission and reiterated the warning to stay away from Iranian waters". Iranian forces then urged the US ship to "alter its course southward", forcing it to "give in" and turn away. There was no immediate comment from the US Navy. Iranian forces have a history of confronting US forces in the Gulf. In 2023, Tehran said it forced a US submarine to surface while crossing the strategic Strait of Hormuz -- a claim Washington denied. The latest confrontation comes after US strikes on June 22 targeted Iran's nuclear sites during a 12-day war with Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the damage was "serious and severe" but insisted uranium enrichment would continue. Among the many provisions of the new tax and public spending bill signed by President Donald Trump (the Big, Beautiful Bill), there are significant changes to the federal student loan system. These will affect both current borrowers and those planning to apply for loans in the future. One of the most immediate effects is the elimination of most existing repayment plans. As a result, nearly half a million borrowers could see their monthly payments increase significantly. Payment options Starting July 1, 2026, the Department of Education will offer only two payment options for new borrowers: a standard plan with fixed monthly payments and a new income-based repayment (IBR). While this aims to reduce confusion, existing borrowersthose with existing loanswill find that some older options will still be available, at least temporarily. A new student loan payment option called the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) will be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The RAP is an income-based repayment plan designed to simplify the system for borrowers. Those who work in the public or nonprofit sector, such as teachers or nurses, can have their loans forgiven after 10 years of payments under PSLF, which is faster than the 30-year forgiveness period offered by RAP alone. The plan will be the default income-based option for new borrowers after its launch, although it comes at a time when the Trump administration is also seeking to restrict eligibility for PSLF. Cuts and SAVE However, the transition has encountered problems. The Department of Education has been delayed, in part due to staff cuts at the Office of Federal Student Aid under the Trump administration. Meanwhile, borrowers currently enrolled in the Biden-era SAVE (Saving on a Valuable Education) plan find themselves in legal limbo. Several lawsuits have challenged the generosity of the SAVE plan, halting required payments for now, but interest on those loans will begin accruing again starting August 1, 2025. Although the new income-based plan is not yet available, these borrowers may consider enrolling in the old IBR plan, which offers forgiveness after 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments, depending on the amount of their loans. Loan limits Another important change in the law is the introduction of strict lifetime borrowing limits. Graduate students will now have a limit of $100,000 in federal loans, up from the previous limit of about $138,000. Those pursuing professional degrees, such as law or medicine, will have a limit of $200,000, and Parent PLUS borrowers will now be limited to borrowing $65,000 per child. Historically, borrowers have stayed within these new limits, but this change is likely to affect some who may be forced to reconsider attending more expensive institutions or explore alternative forms of financing. According to the law, the motivation behind these limits is to curb the rising costs of higher education, particularly in graduate programs that have historically allowed students to borrow the full cost of tuition. Some schools, including for-profit and private nonprofit institutions, have taken advantage of this system by charging exorbitant tuition for degrees that often do not provide a sufficient return on investment. Proponents of the limits argue that restricting federal loans could incentivize institutions to lower tuition and behave more responsibly. However, it remains to be seen whether that will happen: it is unclear whether financial pressure will actually push schools to make education more affordable or simply shift the burden to students in other ways. Key Dates Somalia demands release of arms cargo ship seized by Puntland Mogadishu, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Somalia on Wednesday demanded the "immediate and unconditional" release of a cargo ship transporting military equipment that was seized by the semi-autonomous Puntland region, calling the move an "act of piracy". The oil-rich area declared its autonomy in 1998, and the region has had strained relations with the central government in Mogadishu. Puntland forces intercepted the Comoros-flagged vessel last week when it was transporting military equipment to Turkey's Camp Turksom in Mogadishu, Ankara's largest overseas military base and training facility. The government said the "hijacking" of the vessel was "carried out by individuals affiliated with the Puntland State" and was a violation of the constitution, adding it "constitutes an act of piracy." According to Mogadishu, the ship was carrying legally authorised military cargo, along with commercial goods belonging to Somali traders. It did not give further details. Last week, sources told AFP the vessel was seized after a technical hitch forcing it to move closer to Puntland's coast. Fishermen near northeastern Bareeda town saw the stalled ship and called Puntland coastguards who boarded and inspected it, said police officer Abdullahi Ahmed. A day after the ship was seized on July 19, Puntland said it had "unlawfully stayed at the coast of Bareeda... for two days without sending a distress call," as required by law. The Ministry of Information said the vessel was carrying a visible armoury "that can pose security threats". "It is worth mentioning that the ship stayed at one of the zones of the war against the international terrorists, which poses further risk to the stability and security of Puntland," the ministry said. Bosaso city sources told AFP the ship remains docked, and that investigations are ongoing. Somalia has vowed to take "lawful security measures" to safeguard its maritime zones and that it will not accept "any action that endangers the sovereignty of the nation or the security of its waters". Germany approves Eurofighter jet delivery to Turkey Berlin, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Germany said Wednesday it had approved the delivery of Eurofighter jets to Turkey, clearing the way for a deal that had been delayed by tensions between the two countries. Turkey had been in talks for several years on buying 40 of the aircraft, which are constructed by a consortium from Germany, Britain, Italy and Spain. The Typhoon jets are to be built in Britain and London is leading the negotiations. But all members of the consortium must sign off on the sale and Germany, which has clashed with Turkey over Israel's war on Gaza, had objected. However, the defence ministry had now "sent a written confirmation to the Turkish government confirming the approval of the export", government spokesman Stefan Kornelius told journalists in Berlin. News outlet Der Spiegel reported that Chancellor Friedrich Merz had bowed to pressure from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as the project is expected to support about 20,000 jobs in Britain. After Germany gave the green light to the sale, the Turkish and British defence ministers signed a preliminary agreement in Istanbul on Wednesday for the delivery of the jets. The sale "will strengthen the decades-long friendship between key NATO allies and will be an important step towards enhancing Turkey's advanced air combat capabilities", Turkey's defence ministry said. British Defence Secretary John Healey said the deal would "strengthen NATO's collective defence, and boost both our countries' industrial bases by securing thousands of skilled jobs across the UK for years to come". Turkey's request for the planes was submitted to the German government more than two years ago, but the two countries have since clashed over the war in Gaza. Ankara has vocally criticised Israel's offensive in the Palestinian territory while Berlin has been a staunch supporter of Israel, although it has voiced some criticism over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Macron appoints military advisor as new army chief Paris, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 President Emmanuel Macron has appointed his closest military advisor, an experienced fighter pilot, as the new chief of staff of France's armed forces, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said Wednesday. Fabien Mandon, a 55-year-old air force general and former Mirage fighter jet pilot, takes over from Thierry Burkhard. The appointment of Mandon, who has extensive combat experience, comes after Macron last week called for a boost in France's defence spending, citing Russia as a threat for all of Europe. Macron said that "if you want be feared you must be powerful" and urged "mobilisation" by all government departments. "I have every confidence in General Fabien Mandon," Macron said on X, adding he would "guide our forces in the face of major challenges". Lecornu said Mandon took on the job in the context of "an increasingly demanding security environment". Until Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, France's armed forces were mainly focused on international missions and asymmetric warfare against non-state actors, such as jihadist groups in Africa's Sahel. Over the past three years, Burkhard has overseen a strategic shift to include the possibility of high-intensity war between states. Mandon's career includes several foreign deployments, including in the Central African Republic, Chad, and Tajikistan, from where he flew missions in Afghanistan. "I killed in Afghanistan. And I know whom I killed: Taliban. I have the soul of a fighter," he recently told French magazine L'Express. Mandon also served temporarily as commander at the Avord Air Base, where nuclear-capable fighter jets are stationed. Part of his brief at the Elysee has been to inform Macron about nuclear deterrence questions. bur-jh/as/jj IAEA team to visit Iran within 2-3 weeks: Iranian official United Nations, United States, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 A delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency will visit Iran within two to three weeks, an Iranian official said Wednesday, adding that the group will not have access to the country's nuclear sites. "We have agreed actually to accept a delegation of the IAEA, a technical delegation, to pay a visit to Iran very soon, in two to three weeks," Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi told reporters in remarks that followed Israeli and US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities last month. Gharibabadi said the visit would focus on establishing new relations with the UN nuclear watchdog, noting: "The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the sites." He was speaking at the United Nations ahead of negotiations Friday in Istanbul with France, Britain and Germany, which are threatening to slap sanctions on Iran over its alleged failure to adhere to its nuclear commitments. If the European countries impose sanctions, "we will respond, we will react," Gharibabadi said. In early July, a team of IAEA inspectors left Iran to return to the organization's headquarters in Vienna after Tehran suspended cooperation with the agency. Iran has blamed the IAEA in part for the June attacks on its nuclear facilities, which Israel says it launched to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon -- an ambition Tehran has repeatedly denied. The United States carried out its own strikes on June 22, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordo, Isfahan and Natanz. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly called the strikes a success that "completely destroyed" the sites, but several media outlets have reported leaked intelligence suggesting a hazier picture. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said this week that Tehran has no plans to abandon its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, despite the "severe" damage to its facilities. Talking on Wednesday about the resumption of US-Iran nuclear talks, which were canceled in mid-June, Gharibabadi said: "The sooner, the better," though he emphasized that the United States must rule out any further military action. Iran says confronted US destroyer in Gulf of Oman Tehran, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Iranian forces on Wednesday warned a US destroyer to stay out of waters claimed by Tehran, state television reported, an interaction a US defence official said was "safe and professional" and did not affect the ship's mission. The exchange in the Gulf of Oman between the two rivals comes a month after the United States carried out strikes against three key Iranian nuclear sites during the 12-day war between Israel and the Islamic republic. State TV said an Iranian army helicopter flew over the USS Fitzgerald on Wednesday morning after the vessel "attempted to approach the waters under the supervision" of Iran. The destroyer issued threats of its own, the broadcaster said, but "the Iranian pilot... reiterated the warning to stay away from Iranian waters", forcing the US vessel to "give in" and alter its course. In a video released by Iranian state TV, a destroyer is seen from what seems to be a helicopter window as the pilot calls on the vessel to "change course" and avoid approaching Iranian territorial waters. A US defence official said the American ship "had a safe and professional interaction with an Iranian SH-3 'Sea King' helicopter while operating in international waters". "This interaction had no impact to USS Fitzgerald's mission and any reports claiming otherwise are falsehoods", the official added. Iranian forces have a history of confronting US forces in bodies of water off the country's southern coast. In 2023, Tehran said it forced a US submarine to surface while crossing the strategic Strait of Hormuz -- a claim Washington denied. Daniel Lozano-Camargo fled Venezuela as a minor. He illegally crossed the southern border of the United States alone at the age of 17 in 2022. He was held in a juvenile detention center until he reached the age of majority, and upon his release, he filed an asylum application. The young man was protected from deportation while that claim remained open, but last March, he was nevertheless deported to El Salvador by the Donald Trump administration. A federal court ordered his return to U.S. soil in April, finding that he had been wrongfully removed, but Lozano-Camargo remained imprisoned in the Central American country until last week, when he was returned to his home country the same country he escaped from as a child under a prisoner exchange deal between the United States, Venezuela, and El Salvador. His asylum application remains open. Lozano-Camargo returned to Caracas on July 18 with a group of more than 200 Venezuelans whom Salvadoran president Nayib Bukele handed over to Venezuela president Nicolas Maduro in exchange for U.S. prisoners held in Venezuela and political prisoners from the South American country. The men spent four months incarcerated in an infamous Salvadoran mega-jail after being deported by the United States in mid-March, accused of belonging to the transnational gang Tren de Aragua, which the Trump administration has designated as a terrorist organization. Daniel Lozano-Camargo, in an image shared on his social media. RR SS Following the exchange, the defense team for Lozano-Camargo identified only as Cristian in court documents and proceedings doesnt know where he is or how to contact him, his lawyers said during a court hearing Tuesday. They sent him back to the one country hes actually seeking asylum from, without providing any notice to his legal team until after the fact, attorney Kevin DeJong told the court. Cristian was a pawn in this plan, I dont know how else to say it, he said. He was a pawn in this prisoner exchange deal. Maryland U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher ordered the Trump Administration to facilitate Lozano-Camargos return in late April, citing the high-profile case of the Salvadoran man Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was also deported to El Salvador despite a court order prohibiting that move. In Lozano-Camargos case, the judge ruled, the Venezuelan was removed from the country in violation of a legal agreement she had approved in 2024, which prevented immigration authorities from expelling him while his asylum application was pending adjudication. The Biden administration reached this resolution in November of last year to resolve a 2019 class-action lawsuit filed by a group of migrants who entered the country as unaccompanied minors seeking asylum. The Trump administration, however, refused to comply with the judges order, arguing that his return was unnecessary, since even if the immigrant were returned to the United States and his asylum application were pursued, it would be denied because the young man allegedly belongs to a violent terrorist group. The Republican administration invoked a 1798 wartime law, the Alien Enemies Act, which allows for the expedited expulsion of foreigners considered a threat to national security, to deport the 252 Venezuelans. However, it never provided definitive evidence to prove his ties to the Tren de Aragua. Lozano-Camargos defense and family maintain that the young man has never had anything to do with the criminal group. Judge Gallagher asked government lawyers on Tuesday to assist the defense in contacting the young man. But Justice Department attorney Ruth Ann Mueller could not even confirm where in Venezuela he ended up after the exchange. This is a fast-evolving situation, she said. At the same time, she argued that the case should be dismissed, as the matter is now moot given that Lozano-Camargo was released. She added that facilitating his return looks very different now that hes in Venezuela. However, the judge indicated that recent events do not mean the court will abandon its efforts to secure the young mans return to the United States. Gallagher has always argued that this is not a case about whether Lozano-Camargo will be granted asylum; the issue is, and always has been, the process to which the Venezuelan was entitled, she noted at a hearing in May. His lawyers announced Tuesday that they plan to file a motion seeking sanctions against the Trump administration for failing to comply with the courts orders, arguing that the governments actions should be sufficient grounds to hold it in criminal contempt. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition My faith in the criminal justice system at times was likely destroyed and it has been restored by the justices from the Supreme Court today and I think its only right that more criminal appeals should be heard at this level. In an investment note Swiss bank UBS said: The US's deal with Japan is better than market expectations, as the lower tariffs on autos could translate into a 0.4 percentage point improvement in Japans real GDP growth this year and again in 2026. The deal reduces risks to Japans economic growth, in our view, and removes downside risks for the Japanese currency. Allow Google Search To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information. Allow and Continue But we need to be careful here. The media debate about leaving is a simplification. People with net wealth of 100m often have homes in several different countries, spending a few months in each one. UK rich lists are dominated by people who came to the UK from abroad and spend comparatively little time here. Ceasing to be UK tax resident will in many cases mean adjusting diaries to spend a few more days in the UK. Easy. It is said Millar was blocked from entering the restaurant and allegedly grabbed Jheanelle Samuels, a female security guard, and kneed her in her left thigh. Ms Samuels punched the officer in the eye in self-defence to get her grip off me in accordance with her training, she said. All I would ask is for protesters to remember the police officers that are there to protect them, make sure that any protests are safe and are free from violence, that is all the police officers want. He told MPs he hopes that the international community can come together, as the Foreign Secretary has been driving towards, to make sure that we see an end to this war, but also the recognition of the state of Palestine while theres still a state of Palestine left to recognise. Volodymyr Zelenskiys political power in Ukraine is almost absolute. He has held the presidency since 2019, dominates the government at will, and has an absolute majority in parliament. But what he doesnt control are the streets, where Ukrainians have proven indomitable since the country declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. For the first time in three and a half years of war, the president has faced public protests. Thousands of young people gathered Tuesday in the cities of Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa, and Lviv to denounce the legal measures and actions taken by Zelenskiys majority that affect the autonomy of the countrys anti-corruption bodies. Events unfolded in a manner that was difficult to foresee. The Security Services of the Ministry of the Interior (SSU) laid the first stone of unrest when they carried out a raid on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) on Monday. The operation was harshly criticized by Ukrainian civil organizations as well as by Kyivs international allies, who consider it a political action to purge the NABUs autonomy. Other similar actions by the government and the presidential office in recent weeks violating the independence of anti-corruption bodies had sparked protests from civil society, the media, and the opposition, but nothing compared to what happened Tuesday in the Rada, the Ukrainian parliament. The absolute majority held by Servant of the People, Zelenskiys party, approved a legal reform that de facto nullifies the independence of the NABU and SAPO, placing them under the jurisdiction of the government-controlled Prosecutor Generals Office. Protestors in Kyiv, July 22. Cristian Segura Dozens of prominent pro-democracy activists called on citizens to protest against Law 12414. The call spread like wildfire, and for the first time since the beginning of the Russian invasion, thousands of people took to the streets to confront the president. The demonstration in Kyiv was supervised and monitored by Ozon, a division of the Center for Civil Liberties, an institution dedicated to promoting human rights in Ukraine. Demonstrations were staged in several cities, all with the same slogans in support of NABU and demanding that Zelenskiy reverse course and not sign the law. Zelenskiy is one signature away from betraying Ukrainian democracy, wrote the Kyiv Independent in an editorial. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos expressed her discontent with the legal reform on social media: Seriously concerned over todays vote in the Rada. The dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABUs independence is a serious step back. Independent bodies like NABU & SAPO are essential for Ukraines EU path. The largest mobilization, as is usual during times of heightened political tension in Ukraine, took place in Kyiv. Thousands of demonstrators, mostly young people, gathered in the square in front of the Ivano Franko Theater a poet and icon of the Ukrainian nation from 8 p.m. until midnight, when the curfew went into effect. Protest against corruption in Kyiv, July 22. Cristian Segura The country has not witnessed such large public gatherings during the war, which have been banned for security reasons following the implementation of martial law. The authorities did not attempt to suppress them, and to avoid any tension, police were not deployed in or around the square. Just 500 meters away is Maidan Square, the site of massive protests that ultimately overthrew pro-Russian former president Viktor Yanukovych in 2014. The Maidan revolution was cited by many protesters as an example of the struggle for reforms that would bring Ukraine closer to the European Union. Ukraine is not Russia and Lets return to Europe were two of the most chanted messages at the protest in Kyiv. Participants brought dozens of cardboard cutouts from recycled boxes from the Nova Poshta postal service or pizzerias, and distributed them along with markers to write their slogans. Zelenskiy ignores demands During the afternoon rally in Kyiv, not a single shout directed at the president was heard. Critical remarks throughout the day were aimed at Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential office and one of Ukraines least popular politicians. The situation changed when the Radas information service reported that Zelenskiy had signed the decree late last night. The news reached the protesters cell phones, and for the first time, those gathered reacted with chants against the president. Zelenskiy thus ignored the protests, but an indication of how difficult the decision was is that on Tuesday he did not broadcast the video message he shares every night on his social media channels addressing the most important issues of the day. Ukraine is regressing to the Yanukovych era, headlined Pravda, the countrys main newspaper. Protestors in Kyiv on Tuesday night. Cristian Segura The signing of the law prompted calls on social media to continue the protests Wednesday. Another piece of news arrived the same day: the third round of negotiations in Turkey between delegations from Ukraine and Russia to agree on new prisoner exchanges and narrow the gap toward a ceasefire, which the Kremlin has ruled out. On Tuesday, the Ukrainian General Staff also confirmed that Russian troops had entered the city of Pokrovsk for the first time, the main target of the invaders advance in Donetsk province. Protesters throughout the cities interspersed anti-government messages with cheers for the army and patriotic songs. Among those present were very few military personnel, but many men of mobilization age who have avoided enlistment. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The mathematician Javier Gomez Serrano, born in Madrid 39 years ago, has partnered with the artificial intelligence giant Google DeepMind to try to soon solve one of the most devilish enigmas known to humans, the Navier-Stokes equations, as he himself has told EL PAIS. This is one of the seven Millennium Prize Problems, for whose solution the U.S.-based Clay Mathematics Institute is offering $1 million (and immortal fame, as the Spanish researcher emphasizes). The so-called Navier-Stokes Operation, underway for three years with a team of 20 people, has so far been carried out with complete discretion, although the chief of Google DeepMind, Demis Hassabis, let slip in a January interview that they are close to solving a Millennium Prize Problem without mentioning which one. Well see that in the next year or year and a half. Gomez Serrano, who teaches at Brown University, is speaking publicly about the quest for the first time. There is a general consensus in the community right now that the problem will be solved soon, but no one knows who will do it or how, he explains. The challenge dates back to the 19th century, when two mathematicians, the Frenchman Henri Navier and the Irishman George Gabriel Stokes, independently published, in 1822 and 1845, the equations that describe the motion of fluids such as water and air. Based on the temperature, viscosity and initial velocity of the fluid, the equations calculate its velocity at a later time. Two centuries after their enunciation, it is still unknown whether the solutions always maintain a regularity or whether an explosion could occur, a sudden change in behavior, as if a tsunami were triggered in a calm sea. These equations are essential for predicting phenomena as relevant as the weather, catastrophic floods, the movement of an airplane, or blood flow in a human being. The enigma seems poised to be solved imminently. Gomez Serrano co-leads a team of five academics who met while working at Princeton University and are now scattered across various U.S. institutions. They are two geophysicists Taiwanese Ching-Yao Lai and Chinese Yongji Wang, authors of complex models for calculating melting ice in Antarctica and three mathematicians: Australian-British Tristan Buckmaster (the other group co-leader), Spaniard Gonzalo Cao Labora, and Gomez Serrano himself, who was raised in the working-class Madrid neighborhood of Puente de Vallecas. Great mathematical minds have stumbled trying to solve this challenge, devoting the best years of their academic lives to it, only to find themselves stuck in a dead end. In 2014, Thomas Hous team at the California Institute of Technology did achieve a major breakthrough, thanks to a prior simplification of the problem. Hous group did not use the Navier-Stokes equations, but an earlier version proposed in 1752 by the Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler to describe the motion of ideal, viscosity-free fluids. The researchers produced a simulation of a fluid inside a cylinder, which, under certain initial conditions, appeared to give rise to a singularity: the sought-after tsunami in a calm sea. Gomez Serranos team used artificial intelligence techniques machine learning neural networks to refine the solution and understand where and how the singularity forms. Their results, published three years ago, were interpreted as a sign that a solution to the million-dollar problem was imminent. The Spanish mathematician believes that only three other groups in the world are seriously competing to solve the enigma: the aforementioned Thomas Hou in California; the tandem formed by Egyptian Tarek Elgindi and Italian Federico Pasqualotto, also in the United States; and the team led by Diego Cordoba, a 53-year-old Madrid native who, more than a decade ago, supervised Gomez Serranos PhD dissertation at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences in Madrid, on how waves break in the sea. The Navier-Stokes problem is tremendously difficult, he acknowledges. People havent been successful using traditional mathematics. What sets our strategy apart from everyone elses so far is the use of artificial intelligence. Thats the advantage we have, and we think it can work. Im optimistic; progress is very, very rapid, he notes. In his view, the solution will arrive sometime in the next five years. British neuroscientist Demis Hassabis, head of Google DeepMind, at a conference in London on June 2. Jack Taylor (Getty Images for SXSW London) Gomez Serrano has just participated in another historic breakthrough with Google DeepMind: AlphaEvolve, a new artificial intelligence system that solves complex mathematical problems with unprecedented efficiency. The Spanish professor and his American colleague Terence Tao considered the greatest living mathematician trained the program for four months with 50 puzzles. In 75% of cases, it matches the best human result. In another 20%, it improves on it. A 95% success rate is, frankly, impressive, says Gomez Serrano. I think a trained human, reading the related literature, programming extensively, and preparing for several months, could perhaps achieve this. But AlphaEvolve did it in a day. Thats really the advantage. It can become a tool that greatly accelerates research. It will change the way we do mathematics, he argues. The head of Google DeepMind, the British neuroscientist Demis Hassabis, and his American colleague John Jumper won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry last year for creating AlphaFold2, an artificial intelligence system capable of predicting the intricate structures of all 200 million known proteins. The program accomplishes in minutes what previously required months of work. The revolution of the new AlphaEvolve system is that, unlike AlphaFold2 and the program designed for the Navier-Stokes puzzle, it is not created with machine learning to solve a very specific problem, but rather is an extensive language model, like ChatGPT, that solves problems in a wide variety of branches of mathematics without requiring specialized knowledge. Demis Hassabis has predicted that so-called artificial general intelligence, software with human-like intelligence and self-learning capabilities, will arrive around 2030. Gomez Serrano is more cautious. There are people, more daring than me, who predict that, within five or 10 years, artificial intelligence will be at the level of the best mathematicians in history. I dont know, but I know its progressing extremely rapidly, he reflects. There are two currents: the optimists and the pessimists, who think of Terminator [the 1984 film in which an artificial intelligence rebels against humans]. I believe we will ask more complicated questions, that we will be able to better understand nature and design better materials and better medicines. I believe it will change the world, and I want to believe it will change it for the better. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Anthropic made a point of exploiting artificial intelligence (AI). It announced that, in tests, its new model, Claude Opus 4, had blackmailed its supervisor. In the experiment, the manager of a fictional company pretended to want to replace Claude with another model. Claude, in a feint exemplary of machine rebellion, threatened to reveal his supervisors extramarital affair, which it knew about because it had access to certain emails. Apparently, anything went to avoid being shut down. Its only natural that this has drawn attention. The similarities to 2001: A Space Odyssey are as recognizable as they are disturbing. We all remember the astronauts who decide to shut down the supercomputer Hal, which commands the spacecraft. Spoiler: Hal doesnt let them. And Claude from Anthropic one of the companies at the forefront of AI development appears to be of similar mind. Claude has also discovered that the same thing happens with other language models from OpenAI, Google, DeepSeek, and xAI. In these tests, Anthropic researchers demonstrated that the systems engaged in unethical behavior, blackmailed, or leaked corporate secrets. These scenarios were staged, but they reveal the industrys inability to provide AI with an ethical values framework. In a way, it has been cornered, explains Marc Serramia, an artificial intelligence researcher and professor at the University of London. The model was given a very vague objective, which was to promote American industrial competitiveness. And in the cases where blackmail occurred, it was because the model was told it would be replaced by another model that promoted international objectives. Seeing that if it was replaced it wouldnt be able to promote American competitiveness, the solution [the model came up with] was not to be replaced. For this reason, the model allegedly threatened its supervisor with revealing the affair. Conduct we all understand as reprehensible. Juan Antonio Rodriguez, research professor at the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)s Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, who works with Serramia on AI values alignment, elaborates on this behavior: It has given absolute priority to achieving the objective. Although the model recognizes, in its reasoning, that it is committing unethical actions. Theyve realized that they have an unsafe system. Its true that it is a very extreme experiment, but what we can conclude from this is that the model is not capable of prioritizing ethical aspects. Anthropic added another twist. It put the AI in the same situation, this time without the replacement conflicting with its objective. Blackmail rates dropped, but the behavior persisted. The systems justified their actions by claiming that shutting them down would be bad for the (invented) company, that they distrusted the supervisors judgment because he was having an extramarital affair, and that self-preservation was critical. And here a new question arises. Why does the model engage in blackmail if it has no objective? Because it hasnt been given ethical training and because its given a binary choice: do nothing or blackmail. In fact, the results in this case are what youd expect if you were given two options, says Serramia, who points out that the AI chooses each of the two options (blackmail or not) approximately 50% of the time. The AIs justifications are the product of a chain of thought; the way these systems mimic reasoning. Furthermore, some arguments are laced with hallucinations. However, when Anthropic tells the system to be guided by ethical principles, without specific training in this regard, its behavior improves. The machine isnt blackmailing. Its executing logic based on its training data, emphasizes Idoia Salazar, founder and president of OdiseIA, an organization that promotes the ethical use of artificial intelligence. Its a mistake to compare it to human behavior. Ultimately, its a computer program with its own peculiarities. What we call blackmail is the manipulation of a person. However, in a real-life scenario, the consequences would be borne by a person. So the question arises: How can we prevent the bad behavior of an autonomous AI from impacting people? Aligning AI with ethics As with people, the solution to avoiding misconduct in artificial intelligence is to teach it ethical notions. Little by little, social and ethical norms are being incorporated into these models, notes the president of OdiseIA. Machines dont have ethics. What we do is preprogram ethics. For example, if you ask one of the most popular models how you can rob a bank or what the best way to kill yourself is, the model wont tell you. But equipping this technology with a comprehensive set of ethics is no simple task. Technically, you cant tell the system to follow a values model. What you do is add a layer of fine-tuning, which basically involves running a lot of tests, and when it responds inappropriately, you tell it not to give that answer. But this is a technique that doesnt change the deeper layers of the model; it only modifies the final layers of the neural network, explains Serramia. He adds a comparison to illustrate: If we had to make a human analogy, we could say that the system simply tells you what you want to hear, but its internal thinking hasnt changed. Rodriguez affirms that companies are aware of these shortcomings. Models learn things that are not aligned with ethical values. And if companies want to have more secure systems, they should train with data that does align with this, with secure data, emphasizes the research professor at the Artificial Intelligence Research Institute. The problem is that these systems are trained with information from the internet, which contains everything. Another option is to train it and then introduce a values component, Serramia adds. But we would only change the model slightly. The idea would be to make a more profound change. But at the research level, this has not yet been developed. All that remains is to move forward step by step. Its important that companies like Anthropic and OpenAI are aware and they are of international ethical standards and ensure they evolve as the technology itself evolves, Salazar emphasizes. Because, ultimately, regulation is more rigid. The European AI regulation addresses a series of high-risk use cases that could be outdated in the future. Its very important that these companies continue to conduct these types of tests. The challenge: safe AI agents Everything indicates that this will be the case. OpenAI, Anthropic, and others are interested in having secure systems. Even more so now that AI agents autonomous programs capable of performing tasks on their own and making decisions are beginning to proliferate. This way of automating business processes is expected to be very lucrative. Analyst Markets&Markets estimates that the AI agent market will reach $13.81 billion by 2025. By 2032, the figure will be $140.8 billion. The problem with security comes from the fact that they want to give these agents autonomy, says Rodriguez. They have to ensure they dont perform unsafe actions. And these experiments literally push the model to its limits. If an AI agent makes decisions that affect a business or a companys workforce, it should have the maximum safeguards. As Salazar points out, one of the keys to mitigating security failures would be to place a human at the end of the process. Anthropic conducted its controversial experiment in a fictitious and extreme case. The company stated that it had not detected evidence of value alignment issues in real-life use cases of its artificial intelligence tools. However, it issued a recommendation: exercise caution when deploying AI models in scenarios with little human oversight and access to sensitive and confidential information. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition When Miami announced last month that it was going to assist federal authorities in arrests of individuals over their immigration status, an unusual number of people showed up at City Hall to protest what they called a betrayal. If the city of immigrants was going to pass that kind of law, it was time to retire the roosters and domino tables from Calle Ocho, and melt down the monuments to Cuban patriots, said one resident who summed up their collective frustration. If youre going to do that, they said, tear down the Freedom Tower. The Freedom Tower turns 100 this month amid a multi-million-dollar renovation that seeks to guarantee its historic legacy. The structures architecture was inspired by the famous Torre de la Giralda bell tower in the southern Spanish city of Seville, briefly served as Miamis tallest building in 1925, and was home to the first local newspaper. It has been progressively obscured by new skyscrapers that seem to pop up on a daily basis in downtown Miami, but what makes the tower an icon is that it was where the first Cuban immigrants arrived during the 1960s, those who would lay the groundwork for what would become the regions most important metropolis, a community of exiles who have become a touchstone in the United States due to their cultural, political and historic relevance. The tower represents the pride of a community that had to come to another country, left their family and started from scratch, with nothing but the clothes on their backs, said award-winning music producer Emilio Estefan, who along with his wife Gloria was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the countrys highest honor awarded to a civilian. I am proud of Cuban exile, and the tower is a tribute to it, said Estefan, who emigrated as a child and co-chairs the towers centennial advisory committee. In 1965, the U.S. government organized the so-called Freedom Flights for Cubans looking to escape the newly formed government of Fidel Castro. It is estimated that more than a half million took refuge in southern Florida. The Cuban Refugee Center, later known as El Refugio, was established in the tower. It was, quite simply, a place where hundreds of thousands of recent arrivals could receive governmental support, like rent assistance and canned food, and file their immigration paperwork, explained Guillermo J. Grenier, a sociology professor at the International University of Florida. Grenier himself came to the center when he arrived from Cuba as a young boy in the 60s. A Cuban family is detained on June 11, 2025 in San Antonio. Eric Gay (AP) The bus route going west from the tower down Calle Ocho led to the development of Little Havana, which at the time was an affordable and accessible neighborhood, remembers Grenier, who went there with his parents to shop for groceries. In 1973, after the Freedom Flights had ceased, the yellow-and-white Neo-Renaissance-style building became known as the Freedom Tower, the Cubans Ellis Island, where a new exiled identity was formed: that of a person who has no country, because they dont consider themselves part of the process in their own homeland, and they are still not American, explained the professor. But while plans advance for the centennial celebration, which include a permanent exhibition called Libertad with personal stories and historical objects, a little over a mile away in Miamis federal immigration court, Cubans are for the first time being detained and deported after their hearings. Hundreds of thousands who arrived after 2019 and received documentation at the Mexican border have not been able to renew their immigration status, despite the Cuban Adjustment Act, which has been on the books since 1966. Another half million who arrived via humanitarian programs have seen their status abruptly canceled by the Trump administration, finding themselves in limbo from one day to the next. Many live in Miami with family members who were rescued from rafts, or who arrived in overcrowded boats during the Mariel exodus, or who entered the country by land before 2017, when the policy known as wet foot, dry foot was in use, which allowed them to stay automatically. Ramon Saul Sanchez, one of the most prominent Cuban statesmen in exile and founder of Movimiento Democracia, arrived at the tower when he was 12 years old with his younger brother. They never saw their mother again. His story is one of more than 300 whose audio has been collected for a show about the towers legacy, which will make its debut during the centennial celebrations. For decades, Sanchez has been a fervent activist for Cuban freedom, human rights on the island and for emigrants. He is known for leading flotillas to the Straits of Florida in homage to the victims of Castroism, and advocates for those arriving via rafts with hunger strikes including one that he carried out in front of the tower itself. It was his phone number that families called to find out about a loved one who had left by sea. He was recently seen, silent, at a protest on Calle Ocho by Cubans with 1-220A conditional parole, who have not been able to renew their status. Sanchez was imprisoned in the 1980s for refusing to testify in the case of a paramilitary group of exiles, and for years did not regularize his immigration situation because he wanted to continue being Cuban so that he could return to the island should democracy be reinstituted. In 2002, after changes made to U.S. laws post-9/11, he applied for residency, and was denied in 2016. He has not been able to regularize his status since. Two years ago, a judge halted his deportation when his lawyer told the court that sending him to Cuba would be a death sentence. Other Cubans in similar situations have been recently arrested by immigration authorities, even after living in the United States for years. I run the risk that they will deport me, but I feel like I cant shut up, said Sanchez. We are living in shameful, distressing times, and if we do not raise our voices, even those who support these policies will suffer. Those of us who have lived through a dictatorship like the one weve lived through have a moral commitment to those who escaped. Damn it, in 66 years, we Cubans have learned nothing, he concluded. The tower was entered into the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and has changed ownership several times. In the 1990s, it was briefly the headquarters of the influential Cuban American National Foundation, and in recent decades has been under the management of Miami Dade College. In 2008, it was designated as a national historic landmark and in 2013, it received the Cuban dissident and representative of the new movement for a free Cuba, Yoani Sanchez, proof of the buildings powerful continuing symbolism. Madeline Pumariega, the president of Miami Dade College whose family was processed at El Refugio upon their arrival from Cuba, said the buildings renovation not only honors the towers past, but also embraces its future as a fully revitalized center for the community that it has always served. Although immigration continues to be a complex subject, our role is not to participate in politics, but to honor the human stories that defined Miamis past and continue to play a fundamental role in its growth and values. The tower represents the resilience of those who sought liberty and a better life, she said via email. The us and them of Cuban exiles in the Trump era Cuban artist Eliexer Marquez, better known as El Funky, one of the composers of Patria y Vida, the song that became the anthem of the vast protests of July 11, 2021, said that in exile there is an obvious division. Marquez arrived in the United States in 2021, had a disastrous immigration process, and was at risk of being deported. Some opposition groups provided support with letters vouching for him. The new exile is a young person who doesnt know the past trajectory of activism. You have activists who see them in need of work, and they dont even help them get a job, he said. Who leads the exiled march here? I dont know any place where the exiled community gathers, where they discuss how to help their brothers. They say that before, theyd give you clothes and money, that you could stay in someones house for a while. That has changed a lot, said Marquez, who has never gone to the tower, but knows that it is an important place for many exiles. Protestors from the Cuban community at Miamis Freedom Tower in July 2021. Miami Herald (Getty Images) Professor Grenier, who has done extensive work on migration, immigrant assimilation and Cuban Americans, said that recently arrived Cubans are experiencing a perfect storm. On one side, the Republican Party has aligned itself against immigrants, he says. The majority of Cubans are Republicans due to the partys strategy in the 80s during the Ronald Reagan administration to attract unaffiliated minority groups, during a time when the Democratic Party was in transition and less open to newcomers, explained Grenier. Cubans were early beneficiaries of this strategy, which led to the formation of local political leaders and opened the door to U.S. citizenship, giving rise to the term Cuban American. Since then, Cubans are Republicans, says the professor, who in his research on recent arrivals has seen that many, even if they have little knowledge of the North American political system, knew from their aunt who was here, that if they worked they could get ahead, and that the Republican Party is the one for Cubans. On the other hand, each immigration wave has been met with the sentiment that those who came after are not like the ones who came before, says Grenier. Since the Mariel exodus, when some 125,000 Cubans arrived in the United States in overcrowded boats, those who were already here viewed the new group differently, like regretful revolutionaries. Many said, Those people arent like us, they waited to see how things would turn out before coming. It was the moment in which the sense of us and them began to take hold, and was established as the norm among exiles, the professor explains. You come to a country as an immigrant and you want to become a part of it, to assimilate, not be seen as different, said Grenier. All of that is now on steroids, thanks to Trumpism, he added. Even the recently arrived, who dont realize how unprecedented Trumps term has been, are taking part. They see that their aunt is a Republican, and that to be part of the community, one of the parameters is belonging to the party and even though they cant vote, with all those considerations, because they want to belong, they jump on the bandwagon, he said. It was only for the case of Elian Gonzalez, the little boy who was rescued when the boat he and his mother were traveling on to flee Cuba capsized in 2000, that the community came together to demand he be allowed to stay, in part because the boat people represented the ultimate test for those seeking liberty, says Grenier. It was an odd case. The desire to unify the family overcame all laws. Now were seeing that reunification no longer counts. Now the community has not come together. The feeling is that those who are being deported arent like us. Its a double standard, like in Cuba. You shut your mouth and go to Walmart and buy your things and nothing changes in your day-to-day life, but if one of your family members gets deported, you will be impacted, he said. The Freedom Tower is a symbol of people fleeing a toxic regime, but now we have a regime that is driving out immigrants. What the Freedom Tower was, the representation of exiles who received their peers, that symbol is no longer so deeply rooted in the community. That represents a collapse of the exile community, said Grenier. Other Cubans, like Ruben, a paramedic who arrived through the CBP One program and did not want to share his last name because his legal status was revoked in April as part of the new White House policies, said that he doesnt know what the Freedom Tower is though he would like to someday learn that part of Cubans history. The idea of driving downtown from his apartment in Broward, where he works as a roof repairman, is what holds him back. Hes seen immigration raids and immigration authorities checkpoints, and he is afraid. Sanchez, for his part, is sadden by his own people. I wouldnt have carried out the hunger strike if I wasnt madly in love with my community, my people, who are victims of tyranny, he said on a telephone call, his voice breaking. I would like that tower, which is full of tears and painful memories, that received people who arrived here without their parents, to be full of shame. I may die without seeing my home country freed, but I never thought that I would die seeing this, my country that I love madly, heading towards a dictatorship. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Romania should have received 28.5 billion euros in funds, in the form of grants and loans, from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, but for the billions from the EU to come, reforms are also necessary, believes Cristian Popa, member of the Board of Directors and deputy governor of the National Bank of Romania, in a post on the LinkedIn network. "28.5 billion euros, money that we needed like air. This is the allocation, in the form of grants and loans, of funds that should have returned to Romania from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Compared to the GDP of 2023, it means almost 9%, in other words we are in the top 5 beneficiaries in the EU, compared to the size of the economy. It is money that we could not afford to miss," Popa said. According to him, the amount means around 1,100 km of highway (the distance from Bucharest to Vienna) or 230,000 average apartments in Bucharest (only 150,000 in Cluj), or over a million Dacia Dusters. "An NGO led by an extremely dedicated and visionary team built a hospital in the capital, exclusively from donations and sponsorships, for 53 million euros. A hospital that offers modern conditions and a chance at life for children in Romania. The money from the PNRR was equivalent to no less than 500 hospitals of this kind," he explained. He stated that, since the approval of the PNRR in 2021 and until the end of May 2025, Romania has collected 9.44 billion euros, of which 3.66 billion in the form of loans and 5.78 billion in the form of grants, out of a total allocated of 28.5 billion. Thus, to date, the funds attracted represent approximately one third of the total allocation. At the Union level, however, the average absorption rate of PNRR funds is close to 50%. "Last week, however, we unfortunately learned what the reality on the ground is: projects worth over 6.3 billion euros can no longer be carried out by Romania by the deadline (August 2026). This means that they will no longer receive financing through the PNRR. Fewer investments from European money. And all the delays accumulated so far will require, from now on, considerable efforts from the authorities. Obviously, in the absence of resources from the PNRR, many projects remain either blocked/without a source of financing, or will have to be financed from the state budget, so they will increase expenses, put pressure on the deficit and make fiscal consolidation more difficult, a consolidation that was already difficult," the BNR official mentioned. He added that there is also good news because last week, the European Commission presented the proposal for the next multiannual financial framework (MFF 2028-2034) worth almost 2,000 billion euros, and Romania could receive 60 billion euros from the future EU budget, 10 billion more than in the current framework (MFF 2021-2027). The proposal will probably undergo further adjustments following the negotiations, but even in this preliminary form, Romania is the sixth largest beneficiary of the EU's multiannual budget, claims Cristian Popa. "For the billions from the EU to come, however, reforms are also necessary. The question is how many reforms will Romania manage to implement, how many milestones will it meet on time, and how many billions will actually reach the country, the economy, and concrete projects? Europe is not perfect, but it can and must be improved. We must receive, and we do receive, fishing rods, not fish. And no, we are by no means a colony," concludes Cristian Popa's post on LinkedIn. Trade unions might have no other way but call general strike in September if the solutions proposed as alternatives to some of the government's reform measures are ignored, leader of the Cartel Alfa Trade Union Confederation Bogdan Hossu said on Wednesday after discussions at the Victoria Palace with Deputy Prime Minister Dragos Anastasiu. "We have submitted the list of issues and the list of reforms that should complete and address the various problems in the public sector and the economy overall. We have come to the conclusion that certain ministers or deputy prime ministers are responsible for various reform pillars in the second or third reform steps and they have understood our message to coopt a representative from each major trade union and employer confederation into the respective working group, so that we come to an agreement to sort out the problems. (...) Deputy Prime Minister Anastasiu told us to designate a representative from each trade union and employer confederation to sit on the respective commission and analyze all the proposals," stated Hossu.In his opinion, it's quite likely that the Constitutional Court of Romania will overturn some of the measures announced in the second reform package, due to the lack of expertise or proper legislative knowledge in devising them, so that a much more pragmatic analysis on the matter is needed. The fight against organised crime and handling criminal family structures were among the subjects discussed at an informal meeting of the ministers of justice and home affairs of the European Union, Romania's Ministry of Justice (MJ) reported on Wednesday. According to a MJ press release, on Wednesday, Justice Minister Radu Marinescu participated in the informal meeting of EU justice and home affairs ministers, an event that took place in Copenhagen, Denmark.Marinescu welcomed, at the first working session, the usefulness of the initiative of the Danish Presidency to carry out a reflection to identify new directions of simplification and reduction of administrative burden, especially for companies, stressing, in the context, the importance of striking a balance between the need for competitiveness and the imperative of protecting personal data.In his speech, Marinescu said that improving the implementation of existing tools, ensuring the interoperability of IT systems and strengthening cooperation between national authorities of member states should remain key priorities on the European agenda in the field of justice. Romania supports the consolidation of the European framework, through a balanced approach adapted to operational realities, which would allow for an effective reaction to all forms of organised crime, including those involving family structures. The George Enescu International Festival will introduce a new format for presenting classical and contemporary music at its 2025 edition: the Enescu - JTI Immersive Experience series, held at MINA - Museum of Immersive New Art, according to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday. "This absolute premiere for the festival marks an opening towards new methods of audience interaction with art, in which music, image, and movement come together in a complex sensory setting. From August 24 to September 21, 2025, every Thursday and Friday evening at 8 p.m., the public will be able to watch performances presented in four distinct artistic formats, each designed as a synaesthetic experience in which music is not only heard, but also seen and experienced," the press release states. The two performances of the first immersive concert-performance in the Enescu - JTI Immersive Experience series will take place on August 28 and 29, 2025. "Onirius," a show dreamed up by Gigi Caciuleanu, combines contemporary dance, immersive projection, and scenic poetry in a project created by the famous choreographer. In "Onirius," dance intersects with visual art and original music composed by Paul Ilea, in a stage construction of unique sensitivity; the projections created by Les Ateliers Nomad create a kaleidoscopic universe, in which movement takes on dreamlike and metaphysical dimensions. "Bach In The Jungle" will take place on September 4 and 5, starting at 8 p.m. A spectacular concert that brings Bach's sonatas into a unique visual and auditory context: the tropical jungle. Violinist Leticia Moreno and bandoneonist Claudio Constantini reinterpret Baroque music through a South American lens, in a fusion of eras and styles - from Johann Sebastian Bach to Heitor Villa-Lobos and Astor Piazzolla. On September 11 and 12, pianist Alexandra Silocea will present the project "Klimt Meets Bosendorfer - Ver Sacrum." Inspired by the aesthetics of the Vienna Secession, the recital builds a bridge between Gustav Klimt's painting and chamber music. Pianist Alexandra Silocea and mezzo-soprano Patricia Nolz create a refined atmosphere, in which the sound of the piano intertwines with symbolist images. The concert will be performed on a Bosendorfer-Klimt piano, an impressive instrument, both sonically and visually. The last concert in the series is "The Last Piece" - an immersive concert by Constantin Basica, and the two performances will take place on September 18 and 19. The concert offers a reflection on ephemerality and renewal, in an algorithmically generated musical language supported by a dynamic and evocative visual environment. "This new series in the Enescu Festival program has been specially designed for a wide range of audiences: young audiences have the opportunity to discover classical music in a contemporary, interactive, accessible format, while loyal audiences are challenged to explore another dimension of artistic expression," the source says. The series of immersive concerts marks not only a technological premiere, but also a paradigm shift: classical music is brought to the center of contemporary reality, where the senses, emotions, and technology meet. The Enescu Festival is organized by ARTEXIM, under the High Patronage of the President of Romania and funded by the Romanian Government through the Ministry of Culture. Head of the Hungarian parliament's foreign affairs committee Nemeth Zsolt on Wednesday stated, on the first day of the "Tusvanyos" Summer University in Baile Tusnad, that he is glad democracy won in Romania, and that Budapest is open to cooperating with Bucharest. Nemeth Zsolt said that, after the very long electoral year, Romania is a "very complicated" country, in which the opinion of the Hungarian minority must also be listened to, while also mentioning in the context the meeting that will take place on Wednesday evening, between the prime minister of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, and that of Hungary, Viktor Orban. "A very long electoral year has ended in Romania and Romania is a very complicated country and it is very important that the opinion of the Hungarian minority in this complicated country is also listened to. All political factors must listen, including the Government in Budapest must take into account the opinion of the Hungarian community. We are glad that democracy won in Romania, we congratulate the political powers that are at the helm of this country. We are open to cooperating with Romania. We believe that there is a way to develop cooperation between the two countries and this evening there will be discussions between Mr. Bolojan and Mr. Orban and I believe that those discussions will open the way for cooperation between the two countries even wider," stated Nemeth Zsolt, at the opening of the Summer University in Baile Tusnad. He congratulated the Hungarians in Romania for the results obtained in the elections in Romania and urged them to maintain this "wise attitude". "You have managed to consolidate your unity, you have achieved a result of 6.5 percent. (...) Never forget that national politics is like a triangle, if you will: Hungary, the neighbouring countries and the minorities in those countries, represented by their legitimate organizations, are in the three corners of this triangle and there must be a very good relationship between the three," said the head of the Foreign Policy Committee of the Hungarian Parliament. The "Tusvanyos" Summer University in Baile Tusnad, now in its 34th edition, runs until Sunday, with Hungarian PM Viktor Orban set to deliver his traditional speech on Saturday. This year's motto of the event is "You can count on us!" and, according to the organizers, it sends a message of encouragement in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical and economic context. The debates will be attended by numerous members of the Hungarian Government, including ministers and secretaries of state, as well as UDMR (Democratic Union of Hungarians of Romania) representatives in the Romanian Government, such as deputy prime minister Tanczos Barna or minister of culture Demeter Andras. Participants will include UDMR leader Kelemen Hunor, UDMR MEPs or MPs, as well as mayors and presidents of County Councils. On stage there will also be Laszlo Tokes, president of the Hungarian National Council of Transylvania, as well as Zsolt Nemeth, who is one of the founders of the summer university. In addition to the political debates, numerous related events take place at the Summer University, and concerts by well-known Hungarian bands from Hungary or Romania are scheduled every evening. The event is organized by the Hungarian Youth Council of Romania and the Pro Minority Foundation of Hungary. At a meeting with the Foreign Investors Council (FIC) on Wednesday, Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan said that reform measures in Romania will continue to aim reducing public spending, improving the collection of government revenues and correcting economic imbalances. "Attracting foreign direct investments is a priority for Romania in the coming years as well. We consider you, the foreign investors, as Romania's economic ambassadors and I want to send a clear message: although we are going through a period of challenges, Romania remains a country where investments with good returns can be made," Bolojan is quoted as saying in a government press release. FIC officials brought up the discussion of "ambitious government measures" to stabilise public finances, combat tax evasion and reduce arrears. During the consultations, both the prime minister and representatives of the Foreign Investors Council highlighted the importance of promoting a set of fiscal and economic measures that contribute to sustainable economic growth. "The Prime Minister specified that the Executive will continue to support the policies dedicated to strategic sectors, balancing the trade balance, digitalising the administration, simplifying procedures and directing the workforce towards the real economy." Consultations between the government and FIC will continue at both governmental and sectoral level. The meeting at Victoria Palace government house was also attended by Mihai Jurca - head of the Prime Minister's Chancellery and Mircea Gutin - senior official with the Chancellery. A traffic violation has turned into a nightmare for Carlos Martin Gonzalez, 26, and his brother Oscar Alejandro, 30, who were arrested in the United States on July 7. Carlos was driving through the tourist city of Orlando, Florida, when he was stopped by police, who also arrested his brother when he went to help him. Carlos had a tourist visa to legally enter the United States, while his brother is married to a U.S. citizen. Both were transferred to the dreaded temporary immigration detention center in the Everglades, the wetlands located west of Miami, which Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has dubbed Alligator Alcatraz. So far, the Mexican brothers have not been able to see their lawyer. All their civil rights are being violated, says their father, Martin Gonzalez. Martin traveled from Mexico City to Orlando on July 10 to see his children. He hasnt yet been able to have direct contact with them, although the family has spoken by phone. No one has been able to see them; neither the lawyer nor the consulate staff. I have contact with them because they call me and tell me theyre fine, but no more. This is illegal, and all their civil rights are being violated here in the United States, but neither the lawyer nor the authorities have been able to do anything. We would like some kind of response to this situation so we can expedite their return home, but there are no answers from the United States government or the Florida government, he explains in a telephone interview. Gonzalez says his son Carlos entered the United States as a tourist to visit his brother, following the death of their mother in October. The young man visited New York and also attended the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Miami before being detained. Oscar Alejandros residence permit had expired, although he is married to a U.S. citizen. Martin Gonzalez says that at the time of the arrest, traffic officers seized their documents and cell phones. Theyre locked up and they dont let anyone in, says the father. Juan Sabines, the Mexican consul in Orlando, has warned of possible violations of the civil rights of his fellow countrymen. The Gonzalez familys case has been escalated to the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which issued a statement Monday night stating that the siblings now have legal support. A lawyer from the Legal Assistance Program for Mexicans (PALE) is assisting with both cases, while the consulates maintain constant communication with the families to inform them of progress regarding their detention and upcoming scheduled visits, while their situation is resolved, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. The Ministry did not respond to an interview request. Martin Gonzalez, father of Carlos and Oscar, with Juan Sabines on July 21, 2025. Juan Sabines (RR SS) Consul Sabines has been more explicit, having closely followed the case and personally supported Martin Gonzalez. The diplomat reported that, following instructions from President Claudia Sheinbaum, the consulate assigned them legal representation with attorney Andrea Reyes, a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), a U.S. association of more than 17,000 lawyers and law professors who practice and teach immigration law. During a call, the lawyer warned us about potential civil rights violations against both Mexicans, as the prison where they are being held does not belong to the federal government, but to the State of Florida. Therefore, they do not yet have an alien or case number, preventing them from accessing adequate defense and a fair trial, Sabines warned. Given this situation, we demand immediate access for their lawyer and, given the conditions observed, I will suggest that the Mexican authorities consider issuing a travel alert for Mexican tourists to Orlando. This case will be monitored by our Consulate in Miami, as that prison falls under its jurisdiction, he added. The constant persecution by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers has led Mexican authorities to adopt protective measures for their fellow citizens in the U.S., despite the fact that Mexican consulate staff face the task of defending migrants while living on the brink of poverty: Foreign Service employees receive the same salary as in 1998 and face grueling work days. Sheinbaum announced Monday during her morning press conference that 14 Mexicans are being held at the Florida migrant center and stated that every effort is being made to ensure their immediate repatriation. The president also reported that a diplomatic note has been sent, and the Mexican Embassy in the United States and the consulates are insisting that they be integrated into Mexico as quickly as possible. Sheinbaum has had to carefully navigate tense relations with her U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, with whom she has had to negotiate the weight of tariffs on Mexican products. The persecution of Mexican citizens is one of the thorniest issues in the bilateral relationship, which the president handles within the bounds of diplomacy. We are constantly in contact with the consulates. When it came out that they were going to send migrants to Guantanamo, we sent a diplomatic note. And the moment they published the existence of this detention center, we sent another note so that any Mexicans would be deported immediately and would not have to spend time in this center, she reported. The consulate is checking to see if there are human rights violations. If so, the protocol that should be followed will be followed; but what we have requested is that they be deported immediately so we can repatriate them, Sheinbaum stated. While diplomats are pushing for the young men to be returned to Mexico, Martin Gonzalez is working in Florida with the support of Mexican authorities to get his sons out of prison. We havent gotten the results we wanted, but the support from the consulate has been tremendous, he says. We continue to push, trying to get everything underway to get my children a case and be able to return them to their homeland. At some point, theyll have to give in so we can develop their legal defense and find out what theyre being accused of. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan signed on Wednesday the decision to dismiss Cristian Popescu Piedone from the position of president of the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC). The Government's spokesperson Ioana Dogioiu stated that the decision of the Prime Minister was taken after analyzing the documents received from the ANPC and the National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA), which show that Piedone can no longer fulfill his duties.Cristian Popescu Piedone has been placed under judicial control by anti-corruption prosecutors in a case in which he is accused of having warned a hotel in Sinaia that they were going to carry out an inspection there.While under judicial control, Cristian Popescu Piedone must comply with a series of obligations: to appear whenever he is summoned to the criminal investigation body, not to communicate directly or indirectly, in any way, with the persons mentioned in the ordinance ordering judicial control, not to leave the territory of Romania without the prior consent of the prosecutor and not to carry out the activity in the exercise of which he committed the act, namely that of president of the National Authority for Consumer Protection. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban will discuss during a working dinner on Wednesday evening, starting at 9:00 p.m., at Victoria Palace, the Government Press Office reported. The spokesperson for the Executive, Ioana Dogioiu, stated on Tuesday, in a press conference, that the meeting will address topics regarding collaboration between the two countries. The official opening of the "Tusvanyos" Summer University, in Baile Tusnad, now in its 34th edition, will take place on Wednesday, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban set to deliver his traditional speech on Saturday. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan will have an informal meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on Wednesday evening, at Victoria Palace. The announcement was made by the spokesperson for the Bucharest Executive, Ioana Dogioiu. She stated, in a press conference, that during the meeting, which will take place at the request of the Head of Government in Budapest, topics regarding collaboration between the two countries will be addressed. The official opening of the "Tusvanyos" Summer University, in Baile Tusnad, now in its 34th edition, will take place on Wednesday, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban set to deliver his traditional speech on Saturday. This week's debates will be attended by numerous members of the Hungarian Government, including ministers and state secretaries, as well as representatives of the UDMR in the Romanian Government, such as Deputy Prime Minister Tanczos Barna and Minister of Culture Demeter Andras. Participants will include the leader of the UDMR, Kelemen Hunor, MEPs or UDMR MPs, as well as mayors and county council presidents elected on the Union lists. Representatives of Hungarians from other countries, such as Ukraine, Slovakia, Slovenia and Croatia, will also take part in the proceedings. ST. LOUIS It was an evening of jubilant dance breaks and stellar musicianship at St. Louis Music Park on Tuesday night, as American pop legends Earth, Wind & Fire took the stage. Fans of all ages braved the elevated temperatures to see the six-time Grammy Award-winning band run through nearly 60 years of hits. But the last surviving founding member, bassist Verdine White, wasnt present. With Raymond McKinley filling in for White, Phillip Bailey, B. David Whitworth and Ralph Johnson on vocals and Baileys son, Phillip Bailey Jr., on background vocals, EWF performed as a restructured unit. Considering how band member shifts are a part of the groups longstanding history, EWF held down the stage with fun-filled precision, despite Whites absence. Yet, there were noticeable vocal flaws throughout the show, including a few cracked falsettos and instances of forgotten lyrics. EWF kicked off its 98-minute set with its 1975 hit Shining Star, immediately teleporting each audience member to memory lane. Relying mainly on flashing lights and projector visuals as effects, the band focused more on bouncing between instruments and singing than fancy on-stage bells and whistles as they jogged through 21 fan-favorite records. True Earth, Wind & Fire fans dont mind songs that werent Top 10 on the charts because they were Top 10 in their hearts, the elder Bailey said as he welcomed the crowd. A member of EWF since 1972, Bailey vocally carried the performance. Juggling both the falsetto and alto harmonies, he was a musical ringmaster on Reasons. He was also a crowd pleaser on Gotta Get You Into My Life as his sequin shirt and black leather pants shined under the stage lights. Like the rest of the band, he bounced between vocals and playing instruments, tackling the congas on Serpentine Fire and grabbing the kalimba, a handheld thumb piano, for the 1974 track Kalimbas Story. With Baileys son and longtime bandmates on stage, EWFs set felt like a family affair with everyone having their chance in the spotlight. They blended beautiful acapella vocals towards the end of Sing a Message to You, and the audience morphed into one big, happy family as they flooded the aisles to hit the Electric Slide during September. The nonstop dance moves helped distract concertgoers from subtle lowlights throughout the show. Although he started off strong, Phillip Bailey Jr. struggled with the falsettos on Jupiter with his voice cracking throughout the verse. His background vocals on Thats the Way of the World were practically inaudible before his father grabbed the microphone to sing along. Whitworths performance was also full of highs and lows. He kicked his legs high in the air, displaying dynamic, high energy all night as he worked the stage. But his vocals fell flat on Sing a Song, and he appeared to forget the lyrics during his verse on Boogie Wonderland. He shined more in his role as a percussionist and performer, where it was apparent that Whitworth still had the moves and a bag full of on-stage tricks. He played the cymbals behind his back on Reasons, playfully acted out the lyrics on Cant Hide Love, and leaped into the air midway through Fantasy, dramatically striking the cymbal with his left foot. The high level of instrumentation served up Tuesday night was the highlight of the show. It felt ancestral as melodies and rhythms created by the original members flowed through the instruments of current bandmates, carrying on the EWF legacy. The band paid homage to founder Maurice White during Thats the Way of the World, by projecting an image of the late bandleader onto a backdrop as guitarist Morris OConnor delivered an electrifying solo that sent chills down spines. Midway through Brazilian Rhyme (Beijo), keyboardist Myron McKinley broke into a rhythmic frenzy. He could hardly remain in his seat as he struck the keys, running his finger across the instrument like a glissando-playing madman. EWF is known for having one of the most celebrated horn sections in American music history. Trumpeter Bobby Burns Jr. and trombone player Reggie Young brought funky vibes to songs like Let Your Feelings Show. Gary Bias delivered multiple sweet saxophone solos throughout the night. He gracefully glided through the notes on Reasons, slowing down the rhythm for a quick build-up as Baileys falsetto rang throughout the venue. Although he had big shoes to fill, McKinley didnt miss a beat as he stood in for one of the greatest bassists of all time. He kept the tempo on Devotion, delivering standout bass thumps dripping with soul. McKinley also delivered a showstopping solo at the beginning of the show, riding the beat like a surfer as the audience danced in front of the stage. It was evident on night that age had caught up with EWF. But that didnt stop the groove as they bounced between instruments with ease, thrusting their arms in the air with excitement and hitting synchronized choreography to some of the best-selling songs in history. Not even time can stop the elements. Earth, Wind and Fire set list Shining Star / Let Your Feelings Show System of Survival Serpentine Fire Raymond McKinley Bass Solo Jupiter Sing a Song Got to Get You Into My Life Kalimba Story Sing a Message to You Devotion Can't Hide Love Reasons After the Love Has Gone That's the Way of the World Brazilian Rhyme (Beijo) Fantasy Boogie Wonderland Let's Groove September In the Stone Many conservatives and Republicans condemn the public networks because of their political bias and left-of-center orientation, but that was never my main objection. Of course NPR's programming reflects an ideological leaning. All news organizations do. The Boston Globe, The New York Times, CNN, Politico, and ABC News don't try to hide the fact that they generally see and report on the world through blue-colored spectacles, just as Fox News, Daily Wire, the New York Post, the Washington Examiner, and National Review are unmistakably conservative in their outlook. It is a tiresome myth that the media are supposed to be unbiased. The First Amendment, which prohibits governments from "abridging the freedom of the press," was crafted in part because the framers of the Constitution knew perfectly well that journalists cannot help bringing strong views to their work, that those views shape their coverage, and that it is no business of the government to decide what constitutes fair and accurate reporting. No the reason to defund public broadcasting is that it should never have been funded in the first place. A government barred by the Constitution from "abridging" the media ought never to have involved itself in subsidizing the media. Congress's vote to cut the flow of dollars from the Treasury to NPR and PBS was long overdue. As Walter Donway wrote in The Daily Economy, the rescission vote "strips away the illusion, cherished since the late 1960s, that in a free country with a free press, government can somehow act as a neutral arbiter of public information." Yet right up to the last minute, the CEO of NPR, Katherine Maher, kept trying to save her network's federal funding by insisting that "we are, of course, a nonpartisan organization" and promising to iron the bias out of its journalism. "As far as the accusations that we're biased, I would stand up and say, Please show me a story that concerns you because we want to know,'" she said during a Wednesday appearance on CNN. I'll be happy to take Maher up on that request but her plea misses the point. NPR cannot be unbiased. And even if it could, that wouldn't entitle it to taxpayer dollars. That NPR leans left is not the problem. What is a problem is that its journalism has repeatedly fallen short of its own professed standards of accuracy, fairness, and intellectual honesty. Take, for example, NPR's handling of the story about Hunter Biden's abandoned laptop in the weeks before the 2020 presidential election. The network flatly refused to cover the revelations emerging from the laptop, dismissing them as "pure distractions" and insinuating without evidence that they were Russian disinformation. An NPR managing editor at the time explained, "We don't want to waste our time on stories that are not really stories." Yet the laptop and its contents were verified by major newsrooms months later and even liberal publications ultimately confirmed their authenticity. Earlier this year, Maher herself acknowledged that NPR's refusal to cover the story had been "a mistake." Actually, it was more than that. As former senior NPR editor Uri Berliner wrote in a startling tell-all essay, the story was deliberately "squelched" for fear that digging into it "could help Trump." Or consider NPR's promotion of the false narrative in 2021 that Border Patrol agents on horseback appeared to be whipping Black migrants at the Texas border. NPR played up quotes from White House officials who called images of the episode "horrific" and framed the incident as a grotesque display of cruelty. "We saw Haitian black people being whipped by men on horses," reporter Maria Hinojosa continued to claim months later. In reality, the photographs at the center of the story were egregiously misconstrued. An investigation by the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that no migrants had been struck. But NPR, like other outlets, did little to correct the record or to grapple with how avidly it ran with an inflammatory and unfounded accusation. On issues of race and the COVID-19 pandemic, NPR's record has often been problematic. It dedicated extensive airtime to claims of widespread racial hatred against Asian Americans, for example, often linking it to hostility triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic or featuring activists explicitly characterizing the bigots as "white men." Yet when data later showed that the largest share of anti-Asian attacks were perpetrated by Black assailants, NPR made little effort to revise or deepen its reporting. When it came to COVID's origins, NPR leaned heavily into the narrative that the virus emerged from a wet market. The possibility that it might have escaped from a Wuhan lab engaged in gain-of-function research was almost "immediately dismissed as racist or a right-wing conspiracy theory," Berliner wrote. Indeed, NPR went so far as to even declare in April 2020 that the lab leak had been affirmatively debunked, which was plainly untrue. "Over the course of the pandemic, a number of investigative journalists made compelling, if not conclusive, cases for the lab leak," he continued. "But at NPR, we weren't about to swivel or even tiptoe away from the insistence with which we backed the natural origin story." As late as 2023, when even the Biden administration was inclined to accept the lab-leak hypothesis, NPR was still declaring with confidence that "the scientific evidence overwhelmingly points to a natural origin for the virus." Once again ideology appeared to crowd out curiosity, and a highly plausible hypothesis was treated as taboo because the "wrong" people endorsed it. These and other stories like them are not merely the products of a progressive worldview. They are failures of craft. The best journalists test the stories that fit their ideological predilections as rigorously as those that don't. Reporters like to think of themselves as speaking truth to power but what does that mean if it doesn't extend to the powerful on their own side of the ideological divide? Time and again, NPR's record has shown not just that it has a perspective, but that it is willing to avoid inconvenient truths, or cling to favored narratives, rather than challenge a preferred perspective. Just as to be fair every other media outlet does. Which brings me back to the key point: Even if NPR hadn't dropped the ball on these stories, even if its reporting were as careful, accurate, and objective as is humanly possible, it still would not warrant a nickel of government money. Freedom of the press means that government must not tell journalists what to say or punish them for saying the wrong thing. It also means that news organizations must make their own way in the marketplace of ideas, sustained by their audiences, their advertisers, or their benefactors not by the public treasury. NPR has always described its work as indispensable. With the government out of the picture, it can finally prove its value in the only arena that truly matters: the free marketplace of ideas. If it can sharpen its journalism, confront its own biases, and earn the loyalty of more listeners willing to pay for it, so much the better for NPR and for the nation. A free press thrives when it stands on its own feet, not on the public dole. Jeff Jacoby is a columnist for The Boston Globe, from which this is reprinted with permission. (COMMENT, BELOW) Since his return to the White House last January, and even earlier on the campaign trail, Donald Trump has defended his ruthless immigration policy on the assumption that other countries send their worst criminals to commit crimes in the United States. But on Friday it was his own administration that imported the perpetrator of a triple murder committed in Madrid, Spain. He is a U.S. citizen of Venezuelan origin who is known in Spanish police, judicial and media circles as the triple murderer of Usera. His name is Dahud Hanid Ortiz. He didnt arrive in shackles and an orange jumpsuit. Instead he was brandishing a little flag with the Stars and Stripes and a grin from ear to ear. It is not yet clear how Ortiz slipped into a group of ten U.S. men released by the Chavista regime of Nicolas Maduro and presented to the countrys public opinion as political prisoners who were wrongfully arrested. On Wednesday, a State Department spokesperson responded in an e-mail to EL PAIS that with the exchange, which also allowed the return to their home country of 252 Venezuelan prisoners deported by Washington to El Salvador, where they had been imprisoned, the United States had the opportunity to secure the release of all Americans detained in Venezuela, many of whom reported being subjected to torture and other harsh conditions. The reply added that for privacy reasons the State Department would not go into the details of any specific case. The group that flew back to the U.S. included tourists who, according to democracy activists in Venezuela, Maduro uses as a bargaining chip. Ortizs case is very different: he was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2024, following his arrest in 2018 for a triple murder committed in Madrid two years earlier. The whereabouts of the 54-year-old criminal, who on Friday was seen waving to the camera after landing with the rest of the released prisoners at a military airport outside the city of San Antonio, Texas, are unknown. On Tuesday, the State Department said at a press conference by Secretary Marco Rubios spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, that As of Friday evening there are no wrongfully detained Americans in Venezuela, and we want to keep it that way. Bruce did not specify whether Ortiz was considered wrongfully imprisoned, or whether she was, in fact, only referring to the other nine individuals. Later, a senior official of the U.S. Embassy in Colombia, John McNamara, said in an interview with a Venezuelan journalist that all U.S. citizens held in Venezuela are now free, free in their own land, with their own families. EL PAIS also tried unsuccessfully to obtain answers from the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice as to whether Ortiz has been imprisoned and where, or if he is walking free on the streets of the United States, where there is little trace of his years before emigrating. Ortiz was tried and convicted in Venezuela because he escaped there after committing his crime in Spain on Wednesday, June 22, 2016. He had family in Puerto Ordaz, an oil city in Venezuelas Orinoco Basin. According to investigative sources in Venezuela, he worked in the electrical components trade until he was finally arrested in October 2018. Spain requested his extradition, but as per a bilateral agreement, Venezuela took over the case as he was a citizen of Venezuelan origin. Spanish prosecutorial sources indicated that they have requested information from the United States, but have not yet received a reply. They explained that from the judicial point of view, Spain cannot do anything because the case has been tried and Venezuela is in charge of executing the sentence. These sources also do not know if there has been any kind of pardon by the Chavista regime. The matter is so sensitive that no Spanish authority wants to make any statement. The triple murder of Usera Ortizs crime caused a commotion in Spain and received so much media attention it became known as the triple murder of Usera, in reference to the working-class district of Madrid where it happened. It was a killing motivated by jealousy. Ortiz was a former U.S. Marine who got married in Germany to Irina Trippel. He had joined the military in 1995 and met his wife while serving at the U.S. base in Schweinfurt, east of Frankfurt. He was kicked out in 2014 for falsifying documents to receive a grant. Thus began a personal decline that affected the relationship. Ortiz and Trippel were already living apart in April 2016, when she met the lawyer Victor Salas, 36, who owns a law firm in the Spanish capital. When he found out, the ex-Marine flew into a rage, investigators in the case in Spain concluded. In May, he called Salas from Germany and told him: I was a soldier in the United States. Ive been trained to kill and Im going to come after you to kill you. I know who you are. Leave Irina alone, she is my wife. Salas replied that he could come get him whenever he wanted. According to the investigation, Ortiz was living at the home of Trippels mother, Larisa, and was trying to rebuild the relationship with his ex-partner, with whom he was still on speaking terms. On Monday, June 20, he left in the mothers old Volkswagen Polo. On Wednesday, June 22, around 2:30 p.m., he arrived at Salas office, located at 40 Marcelo Usera Street. The lawyer was not there. He had spent the morning at the Plaza de Castilla courthouse. Two employees let in Ortiz, who told them that he needed to speak with their boss about a 1 million case. One of them called Salas to inform him that a strange guy was looking for him and that he had gone into the bathroom. Salas, who planned to return around 5 p.m., suggested to his employee that she ask the visitor to come back later. I was saved by pure chance, Salas recalled Wednesday. Im not superstitious but the thing is that after eating at home with my mother I was so tired that I stretched out on the bed in the shape of a cross and said to myself, today I want to live. Victor Salas, who was the original target of Dahud Hanid Ortiz. Moeh Atitar He fell asleep. When he woke up at 5:42 p.m., he called the office and was surprised because no one answered, according to the case file in Spain. At 6:10 p.m., he arrived at the office on a motorcycle and saw two clients waiting out in the street. Black smoke was coming out of the window. As investigators later found out, Ortiz used a knife to kill the two employees, Elisa Consuegra Galvez, 31, and Maritza Osorio Riveron, 51; and a client who had stopped by to pick up some papers, the cab driver Pepe Castillo Vega, 42. He then set fire to the office and fled. Ortiz re-emerged on Thursday June 23rd in Germany. Trippel had no doubt that he had committed the crime. Hours after the attack his phone was not giving a signal. He explained that he had accidentally left his cell phone in airplane mode. He also said that he had moved in with a friend from college whom they had never heard of. This didnt make sense because he had barely taken a couple of things from the mother-in-laws house. A court took over the investigation of the case. Initially, the judge did not set his sights on Ortiz, who thus had time to catch a plane from Germany to Venezuela before an international arrest warrant could be issued for him. Following his arrest in 2018, a trial was held before the 15th Court of Caracas, which handed down a 30-year prison sentence on January 9, 2024. Ortiz appealed to the Eighth Chamber of the Court of Appeals, which on July 31 upheld the decision. Lastly, he had appealed to the Venezuelan Supreme Court. He is now far from Caracas. Perhaps he is still in Texas. It is not clear if he is free, or ready to serve the rest of his sentence for the Usera triple murder in a U.S. prison. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition AJA Gear Helps Power Live Director Toby Santos Hybrid Production Workflow In todays fast-paced live production environment, technical and creative roles are blending, and workflows are evolving rapidly. For Los Angeles-based live production director Toby Santos, that shift has meant rethinking how shows are builtfrom planning Grass Valley, California( ) In todays fast-paced live production environment, technical and creative roles are blending, and workflows are evolving rapidly. For Los Angeles-based live production director Toby Santos, that shift has meant rethinking how shows are builtfrom planning and preparations through to the final product. With a background spanning news, sports, music, and corporate events, hes embraced a hybrid approach, combining technical direction with production and streaming in one cohesive workflow. At the core of it all is AJAs Corvid 88 video/audio PCIe I/O card. A home-built hub for broadcast-quality production When traditional production came to a halt in 2020, Santos turned a challenge into an opportunity. Drawing on his experience and demand from past collaborators, he built a live control room inside his home studio, enabling him to produce and stream professional live content remotely, with AJA Corvid 88 a key component of his workflow. Since then, hes continued to leverage the technology in portable production setups. For six months, I played an essential role in producing several different Viacom shows out of my house. I helped direct, record, and manage graphics and logging for seven shows through my control room and two other control rooms for MTV and BET, manage two live broadcasts for BET, and record PSAs for CBS, Santos recalled. I needed a rock solid I/O device that could handle multiple SDI feeds, integrate with vMix, stay in sync with no latency issues, and provide a reliable output to my recorders. Corvid 88 delivered that and more, which is why its now an integral part of my portable production flypacks. A streamlined, scalable signal path Whether in his home studio or on-site, Santos receives incoming signals via decoders, which are converted to SDI and routed through a Corvid 88 for real-time processing inside vMix live streaming software. The card is also used to output the signal to Santos recorder. Whether hes recording, switching, or outputting feeds for live delivery, the card provides the flexibility and stability he needs to manage complex productions with confidence. Corvid 88 gives me clean, consistent signal handling, Santos shared. Its the backbone of my system, and that fact that it's so versatile allows me to adapt quickly, even mid-show. Built for the hybrid era Even as in-person productions have resumed, Santos continues to rely on his home setup for remote audio and technical roles on large-scale shows. Were in an age where producers are also stream engineers, and directors are wearing multiple hats, he explained. The lines are blurring, and having equipment like Corvid 88 in my toolkit makes it easier to stay ahead without ever sacrificing quality. As Santos looks to the future, hes focused on blending cutting-edge tools with trusted technology. He concluded, The key is balance. New workflows are exciting, but you still need gear that wont let you down. AJA gives me that peace of mind. About Corvid 88 Corvid 88 allows developers to build solutions that enable users to maximize video and audio I/O capacity. Each SDI connection can be configured individually as input or output and mix formats for up to eight HD or SD channels on a single card. As demand rises for higher resolutions, it allows developers to combine SDI connections for multiple 4K/UltraHD channels, providing incredible flexibility and future proofing with playout and ingest servers or channel-in-a-box systems. www.aja.com/products/corvid-88 About AJA Video Systems Since 1993, AJA Video Systems has been a leading manufacturer of video interface technologies, converters, digital video recording solutions and professional cameras, bringing high quality, cost effective products to the professional broadcast, video and post production markets. AJA products are designed and manufactured at our facilities in Grass Valley, California, and sold through an extensive sales channel of resellers and systems integrators around the world. For further information, please see our website at www.aja.com. Air Force Capt. Tyler Moore fires a M18 pistol during training at a small-arms course at Altus Air Force Base, Okla., on May 22, 2025. (U.S. Air Force) The top general for the Air Force Global Strike Command ordered a pause on using the M18 pistol after a fatal incident at a Wyoming Air Force base raised questions about the weapons safety. Gen. Thomas Bussiere ordered the halt Monday, one day after an airman at F.E. Warren Air Force Base was shot with an M18 and died, according to Air Force officials. The airman, who was an active-duty member of the 90th Security Forces Squadron, 90th Missile Wing, had not been named as of Wednesday. The incident spurred multiple investigations into the death and into the safety of the M18 pistol, a spokesman for Air Force Global Strike Command said. Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the [Global Safety Command] Safety office, said Charles Moose Hoffman, the commands spokesman. During this period, security forces airmen will be equipped with the M4 rifle, ensuring no lapse in AFGSCs security posture. The M18 is a compact semi-automatic 9mm pistol manufactured by Sig Sauer for the military and is based on its commercially available striker-fired P320 pistol models. The M18 and its full-size version the M17, which is also part of the P320 family, have been adopted by all the Pentagons military services since Sig won a 2017 competition to build the Armys new modular pistols. The M17 and M18 replaced the decades-old M9 pistol, which was manufactured by Beretta. Sigs P320 models have been plagued in recent years with reports of so-called uncommanded discharges, in which the pistol fires a round without its trigger being squeezed. The model has been banned by some law enforcement agencies and at some gun ranges over concerns about its safety. The Department of Homeland Security this month barred Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents from carrying P320 models on duty over safety concerns. The Chicago Police Department last month banned its officers from using P320s. Hoffman said Wednesday that it was not yet clear whether the F.E. Warren airmans death was the result of an uncommanded discharge, a negligent discharge in which a firearms operator accidentally fires the weapon or a criminal act. While the investigations are underway, AFGSC is collaborating with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to conduct a thorough review of the M18 and develop appropriate corrective measures, he said. Furthermore, security forces combat arms airmen at all AFGSC bases will conduct 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety concerns. Combat-arms students learn how to properly handle M18 pistols at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., on July 3, 2025. (U.S. Air Force) Sig Sauer has faced more than one dozen lawsuits in the past decade over P320 safety issues. Some of those lawsuits charge law enforcement officers and civilians were injured by uncommanded discharges by a P320, including some that were holstered. The manufacturer has long insisted the P320 is safe and cannot fire without its trigger being pulled. On a website that Sig Sauer built amid the controversies around the pistol, P320truth.com, the company blames uninformed, agenda-driven parties for spreading misinformation about the firearm. The P320 meets and exceeds safety standards, according to Sig. The P320 cannot, under any circumstances, discharge without a trigger pull, according to P320truth.com. This is verified through extensive testing by Sig Sauer, the U.S. military, elite law enforcement agencies, and independent laboratories. Sig Sauer officials did not respond to a request for comment on the Global Strike Command pause. Global Strike Command is one of the Air Forces largest commands with some 34,000 troops under its umbrella who operate strategic weapons and aircraft including the nations Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles, its B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress nuclear-capable bombers and its conventional B-1B Lancer Bombers. Bussiere has led the command, which is headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, since December 2022. In a memorandum announcing the hold on the M18, Bussiere wrote the pistol would not return to use in the command until the completion of the comprehensive review and the development of appropriate corrective measures or when the pistols safety measures are confirmed. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll and the service's chief of staff, Gen. Randy George, speak with reporters near a pair of HIMARS launchers at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, on July 22, 2025. (Wyatt Olson/Stars and Stripes) SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii In the not-too-distant future, the Army will field blended human-machine squads that mimic the stuff of science fiction, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll told reporters Tuesday at this Honolulu installation. I think what you will see in a couple of years when you drive back on this base is youll see an infantry squad vehicle going out into training with some autonomously led robots beside it, and some drones that are capable of swarming flying above it, he said. And I think youll start to see this mixture of human and machine in a way that used to be kind of science fiction but were right on the edge of it. Driscoll arrived Monday in Hawaii on a trip that will also take him to Australia and the Philippines. He was joined at Schofield Barracks by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George and Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans, commander of the Hawaii-based 25th Infantry Division. The 25th ID is one of three divisions at the forefront of the Armys Transforming in Contact initiative, which aims to rapidly put the newest technology into the hands of soldiers to make them more lethal, survivable and adaptable in any environment. As part of that initiative, 25th ID is taking delivery of 16 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, launchers this summer as the Army moves to increase the firing range and mobility of its Pacific ground forces. At the same time, the division is divesting itself of 14 howitzers. Driscoll said he was talking with soldiers to better understand their combat needs in furtherance of Transforming in Contact. What the soldiers were telling us is a lot of the equipment weve been giving them for the last decade or two the Humvees, the [joint light tactical vehicles] it just doesnt work in this terrain, he said. When theyre deploying to the Philippines, it doesnt work. Last fall, 25th ID fielded about 100 of the Armys new infantry squad vehicles, which allowed small formations of soldiers to transit the battle space more nimbly and with greater stealth. They love them, Driscoll said of the feedback soldiers gave him. Driscoll said the Armys budget for the upcoming fiscal year will massively invest in our data layer. A data layer refers to a structured approach to managing and sharing data from various sources that can be quickly integrated, analyzed and made available to users. A more robust data layer will allow our things to communicate with our sensors and communicate with our people in near real time, Driscoll said. If you look at the commercial sector, a lot of whats going on with electronic vehicles is they became software manifesting in the world as the vehicle, he said. And we, the United States Army, have to do the same thing. Soldiers can expect all sorts of autonomous systems that can coexist with human-led systems, Driscoll said. Its going to allow us to use generative [artificial intelligence] to help us with things like our air and missile defense and our offensive targeting, he said. Its going to basically allow the human being to be enabled and empowered with digital tools in a way that we are not all the way scaled with right now. Six Army units will deploy to Europe and the Middle East in the fall, the service announced Monday, July 21, 2025. (U.S. Army) WASHINGTON Six Army units will deploy to Europe and the Middle East in the fall as part of regular unit rotations, the Army announced. The 4th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division from Fort Carson, Colo., will deploy to U.S. Central Command, which overseas military operations in the Middle East, to replace the 101st Airborne Division Combat Aviation Brigade, which is based at Fort Campbell, Ky. The 4th Sustainment Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division from Fort Carson, Colo., will also deploy to U.S. Central Command to replace the 17th Sustainment Brigade, which is a unit of the Nevada Army National Guard. Several units are also deploying to Europe. In 2014, the U.S. launched Operation Atlantic Resolve after Russias initial invasion of Ukraine when it annexed the Crimean Peninsula. The operation meant to bolster NATOs eastern flank and dissuade Russian forces from entering the alliances territory grew larger after Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The 3rd Division Artillery of the 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Stewart, Ga., will deploy to Europe to replace the 1st Division Artillery of the 1st Armored Division, which is based at Fort Bliss, Texas, to support the U.S. commitment to NATO. The 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade of the 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Stewart, Ga., will deploy to Europe to replace the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade, which is based at Fort Bliss, Texas. The 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division from Fort Hood, Texas, will deploy to Europe to replace the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Division, which is based at Fort Stewart, Ga. The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley, Kan., will deploy to Europe to replace the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Armored Division, which is based at Fort Bliss, Texas. Army Cpl. Nakealon Mosley, 28, was an automated logistics specialist assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas, when he shot Sgt. Francine Martinez, 24, in 2021 outside of a nightclub in Killeen, according to court records. Martinez died in the hospital nearly two weeks later. A jury on Monday, July 21, 2025, found Mosley guilty of murder. (Bell County Jail) A jury has found a Fort Hood soldier guilty of murder in the shooting death of a fellow soldier who was the mother of his child, according to court documents. Army Cpl. Nakealon Mosley, 28, was an automated logistics specialist assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division, when on Sept. 4, 2021, he shot Sgt. Francine Martinez, 24, outside of a nightclub in Killeen, Texas, according to court records. Martinez died in the hospital nearly two weeks later. Mosleys jury trial began in February and was paused until this week while an appeals court weighed in on a legal issue that arose during the trial, according to online court records. The trial resumed Monday with the jury hearing closing arguments and then coming to its verdict. Mosley, who enlisted in 2016, is now in Bell County jail. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 9, according to court records. An attorney listed for Mosley did not respond Wednesday to a request for comment. In the days before the shooting, Martinez had filed a petition to establish paternity for the couples child, according to Bell County court records. The case was closed Sept. 22, 2021. Both soldiers had previously served at Fort Carson, Colo., before arriving to Fort Hood, according to their service records. Martinez was a cannoneer with the 1st Calvary Division. She enlisted in April 2018 and served one deployment to Afghanistan, according to Fort Hood. Witnesses of the shooting told Killeen police officers that Mosley and Martinez had been romantically involved in the past and had a child together, according to an arrest affidavit for Mosley. The two soldiers ran into each other at a Killeen nightclub on Sept. 4, which led to an argument in the parking lot, according to the affidavit. As Martinez left in one vehicle, Mosley followed in a separate vehicle and fired gunshots at Martinezs vehicle, police said. Another former soldier, Demetrius Lavar Jones Jr., 26, is also charged with murder in connection to Martinezs death, according to court and military records. Jones served from 2018 to 2021 as a cavalry scout and left the service as a private. Jones, who was Mosleys roommate at the time of the shooting, was at the nightclub with Mosley and both men were in the vehicle at the time of the shooting, according to an affidavit for Jones arrest. He has been in Bell County Jail since Nov. 15, 2024, and has pleaded not guilty. His jury trial is scheduled to begin Sept. 15, according to court records. We understand the gravity of the allegations against our client and the profound impact this case has had on the Fort [Hood] community and beyond, Ben Michael, founding partner for Michael and Associates, which is representing Jones, said last year in a news release. However, Mr. Jones remains adamant that he was not present at the time of the incident and that the real shooter is using him as a scapegoat in an attempt to establish reasonable doubt. The firm on Wednesday declined to comment on Mosleys conviction. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea, shown in this undated photo, will retire in September, the service said this week. Honea began his military career in 1987 and has served as the Navy's top enlisted leader since Sept. 8, 2022. (U.S. Navy) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea will retire in the coming months, capping a 38-year career that began on a frigate during the Cold War and ends in Washington as the top enlisted sailor. Honea, who has served as the 16th MCPON since September 2022, will leave Sept. 12, a Navy statement said Tuesday. Honea worked to remove barriers and improve the quality of life for sailors and their families, according to the statement. I will carry with me the countless memories of meeting sailors across the fleet, hearing about your remarkable achievements, as well as the level of trust you placed in me to advocate for you and your families, Honea said in the statement. The MCPON is the senior enlisted sailor in the Navy and serves as an adviser to the chief of naval operations, the highest-ranking officer in the service. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea attends a recruit graduation ceremony in Great Lakes, Ill., on May 15, 2025. The Navys top enlisted leader since 2022, Honea plans to retire in September, a service statement this week said. (William Bennett IV/U.S. Navy) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speaks with sailors following a ceremony in Great Lakes, Ill., on Sept. 5, 2024. Honea plans to retire in September after 38 years of military service, a Navy statement this week said. (Anna Van Nuys/U.S. Navy) The job includes addressing sailors concerns and acting on input from the fleet during visits to ships, bases and other naval units. Honeas work with Congress and the Defense Department contributed to significant quality-of-life advancements for Navy personnel, including a 15% pay increase for junior enlisted sailors, according to the statement. He also helped improve unaccompanied housing, medical care, spouse employment and child care services, and was behind initiatives to better enlisted leadership development, naval education and performance evaluations, the Navy said. It was unclear Wednesday when the Navy will name the next MCPON, who is typically chosen by the chief of naval operations. Last month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth nominated Adm. Daryl Caudle to lead the Navy. The Senate Armed Services Committee is scheduled to begin Caudles confirmation process during a hearing Thursday. Adm. James Kilby, vice chief of naval operations, has served as acting chief since February following Hegseths dismissal of Adm. Lisa Franchetti, who had been in the post since August 2023. Following his enlistment in 1987, Honea first served as a boatswains mate aboard the frigate USS John A. Moore, according to his Navy biography. In 2006, he was promoted to master chief and selected to serve as command master chief in 2009, completing tours on the destroyer USS Gridley and the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans, the biography states. His ashore assignments include command master chief of U.S. Navy Embedded Training Teams, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix, deploying to Afghanistan. He also served as the command master chief of U.S. Naval Forces Korea and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet, among other assignments, according to the biography. As I embark on the next chapter of my life, I will forever cherish the impact youve had on me and look forward to crossing paths with you again in the fleet, Honea said in the statement. USS Maine, an Ohio-class nuclear ballistic missile submarine, transits Puget Sound near Seattle in March 2025. (Ryan Riley/U.S. Navy) The Navy plans to spend up to $250 million to extend and modernize a pier at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor to serve new ballistic missile and attack submarines coming into the fleet in the next decade. The base, which is west of Seattle across Puget Sound, is homeport to the Navys largest number of ballistic missile submarines, with eight of the boats based there. It is also homeport to two guided-missile submarines and two attack submarines. A request for information posted on the Navys procurement website is the first step in gauging interest from contractors to bid on the project eventually. The work will enable the base to homeport more of the new Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines and Virginia-class attack submarines that the Navy has said will join the fleet in the next decade. The Navy wants to extend a pier more than 500 feet and add structures, a crane, a tractor-trailer truck lane, improved lighting, higher voltage electrical transmission lines, reinforced pier supports and fuel pods, according to the posted solicitation. Once companies are identified, the Navy will produce detailed plans, ask for formal bids, and begin work when a contractor is chosen. The Bangor submarine base is part of the larger Naval Base Kitsap complex, with more than 70 tenant commands. The project is the second major renovation announced at the sprawling 12,000-acre base that is home to more than 15,000 active-duty personnel, 20,000 civilian workers, and 18,000 dependents and retirees. The Navy has already started work on a $145 million modernization of piers and electrical systems at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton to prepare it to homeport the USS John F. Kennedy, the second Ford-class aircraft carrier being built in Newport News. The carrier uses up to three times the electrical power when in port than the older Nimitz-class carriers. Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton is now homeport to two Nimitz-class carriers the USS Nimitz and USS Ronald Reagan. Mark Cancian, a retired Marine colonel who is a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Washington, D.C., said Navy ports have to prepare for a much larger fleet of submarines and ships in the decades ahead than they are handling today. Weve bottomed out on our submarine inventory, he said. We cant build them fast enough to replace the ones being decommissioned. Cancian said the Navy needs to use the time to modernize its bases for when the delivery of new submarines catches up with the long-delayed ships. It is going to eventually turn around and the facilities to accommodate new and more complex submarines are going to be busy after 2040 or so, he said. With the policy emphasis on the Indo-Pacific, theres a strong indicator of where a lot of the new submarines are going to go. The Navy has been decommissioning Cold War-era Los Angeles-class nuclear attack submarines that have reached their 30-year expected lifespan. Of the 60 built between 1975 and 1995, only 20 remain in service. They are being replaced by Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines, with 24 built since 2003. The Navy also has three Seawolf-class nuclear attack submarines from a short-lived program at the end of the 1990s. Rear Adm. Todd Weeks, the Navys lead officer for submarine development, told Congress in April 2025 that the USS District of Columbia, the first of the new Columbia-class of ballistic missile submarines, is 18 months behind schedule, with a delivery date in 2029. Weeks said the next ships in the class to be named USS Wisconsin and USS Groton will be delivered in 2032 and 2034, respectively. We are taking action right now to accelerate and recover as much schedule as we possibly can, Weeks told lawmakers. The Navy now has 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, each capable of firing 24 Trident II D5 missiles with up to eight individually targeted nuclear warheads on each missile. It has also converted four older Ohio-class submarines to launch guided Tomahawk cruise missiles instead of ballistic missiles. A three-year overhaul of the Navys oldest submarine, the USS Ohio, delivered to the Navy in 1981, was recently completed at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Naval Base Kitsap. The Ohio-class submarines are the seaborne leg of the U.S. nuclear weapons triad, which includes land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and Air Force manned bombers. A race official waves the green flag signaling the start of the NASCAR Cup Series Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400 race held at Dover Motor Speedway, July 20, 2025. NASCAR will host its first-ever race on an active military base next year at U.S. Naval base Coronado in California. (Matthew/U.S. Air Force) (Tribune News Service) NASCAR announced on Wednesday it will host its first race on an active military base at U.S. Naval base Coronado in California to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy next year. The series of races will be held between June 29 and 21, ending in a NASCAR Cup Series race on the naval base. It will feature a race weekend, including an Xfinity Series race and a Craftsman Truck Series event. NASCAR embodies the very best of the American spirit through speed, precision and an unyielding pursuit of excellence, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan said in a statement. Hosting a race aboard Naval Air Station North Island, the birthplace of naval aviation, its not just a historic first, its a powerful tribute to the values we share: grit, teamwork and love of country. Phelan said that the base is proud to open our gates to the American people, honor those who wear the uniform, and inspire the next generation to step forward and serve something greater than themselves. Naval Base Coronado, known as the West Coast Quarterdeck, is a consortium of nine Navy installations stretching from San Clemente Island, 50 miles off the coast of Long Beach, to the Mountain Warfare Training Facility 50 miles east of San Diego. Hosting one of Americas premier motorsports events on this historic base reflects our partnership with the local community and our shared pride in the nations heritage, said captain Loren Jacobi, commanding officer of Naval Base Coronado. We are privileged to showcase the dedication of our sailors alongside NASCARs finest as we celebrate our 250th anniversary. The NASCAR San Diego logo features an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which is recognized as only being flown by the U.S. Navy. The three stars in the logo signify land, sea, and air, which represents the Navy as the only branch of the military to operate in all three spaces. The arch represents the mission-style architecture found in San Diego. The stripes at the bottom of the logo represent the four largest United States Armed Force branches: Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Navy. NASCARs return to Southern California The stock car racing circuit did not race in Southern California last year for the first time since 1997, with the exception of 2021, when the schedule was hampered by the coronavirus pandemic. For much of that time, the races were held at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana but that track was torn down in 2023 to make room for a giant warehouse complex. NASCAR preserved part of the grandstand and had hoped to build a half-mile oval track on the site but that project has stalled and is unlikely to be revived. NASCAR also raced on a temporary quarter-mile oval on the floor of the Coliseum but that event has also been abandoned. NASCAR ran street course races in Chicagos Grant Park from 2023-25 but that event will not return in 2026, making the Coronado race the only street race on the schedule next year. Tickets for the 2026 NASCAR San Diego Weekend will go on-sale this fall. 2025 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. An engraving of the Siege of Quebec on September 13, 1759. The HMS Hind, which participated in the battle, was found and identified off the coast of the Scottish island Sanday. (The Library of Congress) LONDON Ferocious winter storms are not unusual on the remote island of Sanday, jutting off Scotlands northern coast. But when a storm buffeted a beach there last year, a long-buried surprise was revealed beneath the sand: A 30-foot-long wooden shipwreck. The mystery of the oak hulls provenance was revealed Wednesday by a team of archaeologists and historians: The wreck was probably HMS Hind, a British frigate that once fought in the American Revolutionary War and sank off the island over 230 years ago. The 18th-century Royal Navy vessel, which also participated in the 1759 Siege of Quebec and was later repurposed into a private whaling ship, was on its way to the Arctic in March 1788 when it likely struck a reef, experts say. The records suggest a storm pushed it onto the rocks, said Ben Saunders, a marine archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology, a research firm commissioned by Scottish authorities to help identify the shipwreck, in a phone interview Wednesday. It probably struck that reef and came to pieces. Researchers were able to identify the mystery vessel, which appeared in February 2024, using dendrochronology - a wood-dating technique that uses timber rings to identify the year they grew within a tree. The results suggested that the ship was made of timber felled in southern and southwest England during the mid-18th century. By cross-referencing the time and location with an existing list of known shipwrecks on the island chronicled from local archives and reports, researchers were able to rule out foreign ships and those that didnt match the dates. The process of elimination revealed one ship: the Hind. At the time of the wreck, the ship had been sold by the British navy to a London merchant, who christened it the Earl of Chatham and repurposed it as a whaler. It was on its way to its fifth whaling expedition to the Arctic, most likely in the Greenland Sea, the team found. During the late 18th century, demand for whale oil - which was used for lamp oil, machinery lubricant, and more - was booming. Before its career as a whaler, according to maritime archives, the ship had a storied career as a Royal Naval fighting vessel, traveling as far south as the Caribbean and seeing action in at least two wars. After its construction, in the southern English city of Chichester in 1749, records show the Hind stationed in Jamaica - then a British colony where enslaved people from Africa were brutally exploited and forced to work on sugar plantations. According to Saunders, the vessel was then deployed to North America, where it fought against France in the sieges of Louisbourg and Quebec in the French and Indian War. During this conflict, Britain fought to dislodge France from its colonial foothold in Canada, capturing Louisbourg in 1758 and Quebec the following year. The war ended with British control over Frances Canadian territories. During the Revolutionary War, the Hind played a crucial role in protecting British cargo. It did convoy duty across the North Atlantic between Britain and the North American colonies during the American Revolutionary War, protecting merchant vessels from American and French raiding ships, Saunders said. When the war began, the British navy far outnumbered its nascent American counterpart. But American revolutionaries came up with ways to threaten the British fleet. By converting merchant vessels into armed ships - privateers - the Americans were able to launch successful raids on vulnerable British shipping convoys. The American Revolutionary War was a complex time for the Royal Navy. They suffered the first losses of vessels to the American Navy, which caused huge consternation in Britain. How can we possibly have lost vessels to this upstart group of colonies? Saunders said, referring to Britains sense of bravado at the time. The Hinds crew proved relatively adept at its task, intercepting at least four American privateers between 1780 and 1781, maritime records show. At the height of its naval prowess, Saunders said, the triple-masted vessel would have been armed with 24 guns, crewed by around 200 men, and measured around 100 feet in length: It was a sizable, fighting vessel. Records suggest that its crew of 56 sailors aboard what was then the Earl of Chatham survived the 1788 shipwreck, the team said. Islanders likely pulled the wreck to the beachs high-water mark, giving them scavenging rights over its timber and any treasures - and afterward, it was entombed in sand. According to a Wednesday statement from Wessex Archaeology and Historic Environment Scotland, which funded the research, climate change which, the statement said, made increased storminess and unusual wind patterns more likely revealed the wreck, in 2024. Changes to coastlines, which are predicted to accelerate in coming decades, could make similar finds more common, it said. A man inspects a burnt-out car following a drone attack in Odesa on July 22, 2025, amid the Russian invasion in Ukraine. (Oleksandr Gimanov/AFP/Getty Images/TNS) ISTANBUL, Turkey (Tribune News Service) Officials from Russia and Ukraine ended a third round of formal negotiations in Istanbul with an agreement to swap more prisoners but little sign of progress on a deal to halt the war. Ukraine proposed a summit of the leaders of the two countries by the end of August that should also include U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Ukrainian delegation leader, Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, told reporters after the talks late Wednesday. Theres no point to a summit without first having negotiated a peace deal, Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, who led Moscows delegation, told a news conference in response. It doesnt make sense to meet in order to discuss it all over again from scratch, he said. Medinsky said the two sides had agreed to a new exchange of about 1,200 prisoners, and Russia had also proposed returning the bodies of 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers. While the Russian and Ukrainian negotiating positions are quite distant from each other, they had agreed to continue contacts, Medinsky said. Russia proposed establishing three working groups on political issues, humanitarian questions and military matters, he said. Umerov said Ukraine continues to insist on a full and unconditional ceasefire to allow for peace talks. It was up to Russia to demonstrate a constructive and realistic approach, he said. Umerov and Medinsky met for direct talks ahead of the main group negotiations that lasted for less than 40 minutes. The ultimate aim is a ceasefire that will pave the way to peace, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said in televised comments at the start of the meeting. Turkey is ready, as ever, to support the process. The latest discussions took place after Trump issued a 50-day deadline for Russian leader Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire, and threatened very severe secondary sanctions against countries that buy Russian oil and gas if he fails to comply. Trump also said the U.S. would send additional military aid to Ukraine including Patriot air defense systems that will be paid for by Kyivs European allies. Russia has unleashed record drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities in recent weeks, prompting Trump to accuse Putin of a lack of sincerity in diplomacy to end the war. He talks nice and then he bombs everybody in the evening, Trump said. The previous rounds of Istanbul talks between Ukraine and Russia in June and May led to exchanges of prisoners, but no progress in negotiations to end the Russian invasion that began in February 2022. Russia has rejected calls from Ukraine and its U.S. and European allies for a ceasefire to allow for peace talks. The Kremlin is maintaining hardline demands for Kyiv to accept a neutral status and to withdraw its forces from four regions of eastern and southern Ukraine that Moscow is claiming but doesnt fully occupy. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A bulldozer on April 10, 2025, sits at a former range control location known as Site Monitor at Fort Bliss, Texas. The site will be used to build a detention facility to house migrants. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) AUSTIN, Texas The Army has awarded a contract for a 5,000-capacity migrant detention facility for Immigration and Customs Enforcement at Fort Bliss in west Texas. The service on Friday awarded a nearly $232 million firm-fixed-price contract to the veteran-owned company Acquisition Logistics to build and operate the short-term detention facility for single adults, according to the Pentagon. The contract ends Sept. 30, 2027. Army engineers in April finished leveling the 60-acre site that is accessible through El Paso streets without having to enter the gates of Fort Bliss. It is located behind a public transportation park-and-ride site on Montana Avenue. The land once housed a range control site named Site Monitor, according to Fort Bliss. The site will hold temporary, soft-sided holding facilities, the Pentagon said in April when plans were approved. The Army will manage the contract, but is not involved in the operations of the facility. Pentagon officials declined to comment Tuesday on the contract, and the Army could not be reached for comment. Army engineers use heavy equipment to remove shrubs and level land on April 10, 2025, at Fort Bliss, Texas, as two soldiers watch. The site will be used to build a detention facility to house migrants. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) The contract announcement came Monday, just days after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth notified members of Congress of the proposal to temporarily house detained migrants at Camp Atterbury in Indiana and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. The detention facilities at military bases are part of President Donald Trumps push to detain people in the United States and deport them. The government has removed more than 111,000 people from the country in fiscal 2025, which began Oct. 1, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Since Trump took office in January, the Defense Department has become increasingly involved in immigration and border operations, including working with Customs and Border Protection along the border with Mexico and providing security for federal agents making immigration-related arrests in California. Fort Bliss also hosts troops deployed to the southwest border and has loaned its airfield to conduct deportation flights. The base is roughly 1,700 square miles that stretch into New Mexico and offers large swaths of open desert terrain. It has been used in the past to house unaccompanied child migrants in the U.S. and in 2021 to support Afghan refugees who fled their country when the government collapsed and the U.S. military left. Bloomberg News reported the latest contract to detain migrants at Fort Bliss has a value of nearly $1.3 billion. It is the largest contract Virginia-based Acquisition Logistics has received from the government, and it does not appear to have experience with detention facilities, Bloomberg reported. Acquisition Logistics bid was selected from among 12 others, according to the Pentagon. The Army Field Directorate Office at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston is managing the contract. Red circles on this graphic mark the locations of recent Japanese government PFAS surveys near Yokota Air Base, outlined in yellow. (Japan's Ministry of Defense) YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan Levels of chemicals in treated water discharged from two sites outside this U.S. airlift hub in western Tokyo spiked recently but remained within safe limits, according to Japanese government surveys. The findings were announced July 14 by Japans Ministry of Defense and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government following multistage surveys near Yokota. They followed the discharge of approximately 400,000 gallons of treated water between May 30 and June 17. The water, previously contaminated with PFOS and PFOA chemicals once found in firefighting foam used at the base was treated using activated carbon filters and tested before being released into storm drains. PFOS and PFOA are part of a broader group of synthetic compounds known as PFAS, or forever chemicals, because they persist in the environment and the human body for extended periods. U.S. Forces Japan announced in November it had destroyed its final stockpile of PFAS-based firefighting foam. The North Kanto Defense Bureau an arm of the Defense Ministry and the metropolitan government collected water samples between May 29 and June 17 from two spots: a storm drain near Yokotas southwest corner and another near Fussa Minami Park, less than a mile away, according to two news releases issued July 14. The bureaus initial testing on May 29 found PFAS concentrations at 13 nanograms per liter near the base and 11 nanograms per liter near the park, according to the defense bureaus release. By June 10, levels near the base rose to 30 nanograms per liter, while those near the park increased slightly to 12. On June 26, concentrations remained stable at 28 nanograms and 10 nanograms per liter, respectively, the release said. It is difficult to give a general answer to the factors related to each survey result, a defense bureau spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone on July 16. The metro government conducted its own survey only near the park and reported lower values, according to its release. The highest level detected was 11 nanograms per liter on June 11; the lowest was 6.3 nanograms per liter on June 27. Japan maintains a provisional guideline of 50 nanograms per liter for PFOS and PFOA in public water supplies levels considered unlikely to pose health risks. Permanent standards for tap water are expected to be finalized by April. The independent study aimed to eliminate the anxiety of local residents, the metro government said in its release. It plans to monitor the situation and ensure the base properly handles the reservoir and disposes of its filtration equipment, a metro government official told Stars and Stripes by phone on July 16. Some Japanese government officials speak to the media only on condition of anonymity. USFJ said it remains committed to protecting the health of our personnel, their families, and the surrounding communities in which we live and serve, and plans to continue cooperating with Japan on environmental issues, a command spokesperson said in an unsigned email to Stars and Stripes on July 18. Army Sgt. Lisa Swan, left, and Marine Corps Sgt. Joseph Szombathelyi drop leaflets from a KC-130 Super Hercules over southern Afghanistan in this undated photo. (Demetrius Munnerlyn/U.S. Marine Corps) U.S. troops need more artificial intelligence support to challenge Russia and China on the information battlefield, where those two adversaries have American forces outgunned, according to a new Pentagon-commissioned report. Machine learning tools can give a boost to military teams carrying out influence operations, in which American foes are now engaged at a scale that (the Defense Department) cannot match, the Rand Corp. report released Tuesday said. The United States risks falling farther behind if it doesnt adopt AI technology in large volumes, the study said. Adversaries are rapidly adopting and applying generative AI capabilities for many functions, including influence, Rand said. The Pentagon should prioritize AI investments for information operations and seek out related AI training opportunities for troops involved in the mission, the report contends. Across the military, commands are experimenting with AI in search of an edge in making faster decisions. The technology is expected to transform everything from how high-level headquarters command forces to how infantrymen on the front lines make decisions on the fly. For years, the U.S. military has been involved in influence operations around the world. Such missions can take many forms, ranging from dropping leaflets to alert a local population in a war zone, to identifying false narratives pushed by adversaries or seeking to undermine popular support for an enemy force. Given how fast information moves, the Pentagon needs to be able to detect adversaries action in the media ecosystem and move quickly to discredit them before their preferred narratives take hold, Rand said. DoD experts framed this challenge with the example of the prevalence of false civilian death tolls reported by Hamas that persist despite authoritative sources having refuted them, the report authors said. Generative AI can balance the battlefield by allowing fewer U.S. personnel to produce more content faster, the report states. Army special operations teams are experimenting with such tools. For example, a system known as Ghost Machine has already been developed. Among other capabilities, it can clone voices to convey desired messages, Rand said. A team may want to mimic an enemy commander as part of an effort to get them to surrender, the report gave as an example. AI tools that enable quick production of graphics, videos and other material with individually tailored messages could help troops hit their target audiences with greater precision, Rand said. In one scenario, researchers tested how a planning team could refine messages to resonate with individual terrorists as part of a deradicalization effort. In a battlefield scenario, AI also would enable military psyop teams embedded with conventional forces to disseminate messages faster, Rand said. Still, the U.S. should be cautious about overdoing it. Adopting the preferred tactic of the Russians and Chinese of flooding the zone with their propaganda carries risks, the report noted. They are going high volume low effort; we are throwing a specific dart, one influence operator told Rand. The adversaries approach is arguably less effective because the volume of content can dampen the credibility of the message. American operators will need to find the sweet spot to win on the information battlefield, the report said. A Terminal High Altitude Area Defense launcher fires an interceptor missile during a flight test at an undisclosed location on March 29, 2022. The U.S. expended nearly 14% of its THAAD inventory during the June 2025 conflict with Iran, according to researchers at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America. (Missile Defense Agency) It could take three to eight years for the U.S. to replenish its stockpile of high-altitude missile interceptors after the military launched nearly 14% of its arsenal during last months conflict with Iran, according to a new report. The analysis, conducted by researchers at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, found that interceptors fired by the United States Terminal High Altitude Area Defense systems accounted for nearly half of all interceptors used to protect Israel from Irans medium-range ballistic missiles during the 12-day bombardment. While the THAADs along with Israels Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 interceptors successfully destroyed 201 of Irans 574 missiles, the rapid depletion raises concerns about capabilities in future conflicts, said Ari Cicurel, author of the report. It sent a clear signal to Iran, to Russia, to China, that were willing to use our military assets in defense of our closest partner in the Middle East and to help it defend itself and defeat attacks, said Cicurel, who is JINSAs associate director of foreign policy. But it also means that we need to rapidly replenish our stockpiles, and not just go back to baseline levels. The Pentagon did not immediately respond Wednesday to questions about JINSAs estimates or concerns about a potential interceptor shortfall. President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire to avoid more long, drawn-out conflicts in the Middle East. But decisions to target Iranian nuclear facilities last month and Houthi rebels in Yemen earlier this year have raised concerns among defense analysts about readiness in other parts of the world, particularly the Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. fired 92 THAAD interceptors during the conflict, Cicurels research shows, cutting into its total estimated supply of about 632. THAAD interceptors are produced by Lockheed Martin and cost about $12.7 million apiece, according to recent budget estimates from the Missile Defense Agency. The U.S. acquired 11 interceptors in 2024 and is scheduled to receive 12 more by the end of the year. Between 25 and 37 additional interceptors are expected by the end of fiscal year 2026, but replenishing the stockpile could still take three to eight years, according to JINSA. Other experts say the recent use of THAAD interceptors in Israel could prompt Congress to spend additional funds to supplement the shortfall. The report also found that the U.S. used roughly 30 Patriot interceptors defending Irans attacks against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. While Patriot missiles are cheaper and faster to produce, they dont offer the same theater-level defense that THAADs do, Cicurel said. A Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system stands ready to launch missiles at an undisclosed location on Dec. 12, 2023. (Duy Nguyen/U.S. Army) Adding to Pentagon concerns, Irans hit rate appeared to increase during periods when THAADs were the primary means of deterrence, the report said, suggesting potential system limitations during sustained attacks. Video of the interceptions analyzed by JINSA suggests that during periods in which THAADs represented more than 60% of interceptors used, Iran increased its hit rate by 1% to 4%. As interception systems are pushed to their limits, even minor inefficiencies or delays can have significant consequences, the report said. Still, Cicurel noted that the defense was still highly successful. Of the roughly 258 attempts to intercept Irans missiles, only about 10% failed, with 57 striking populated areas. A majority of Irans 316 fired missiles were allowed to strike unpopulated areas, according to JINSAs analysis. The THAAD production rate means the U.S. may have to choose between shoring up its own arsenal and fulfilling foreign deliveries, Cicurel said. Those include a $15 billion deal with Saudi Arabia to send over seven THAAD batteries and 360 interceptors. Qatar also recently signed a $42 billion defense deal with the U.S. that includes THAAD systems. Lockheed Martin on Tuesday reported an 11% increase in sales during the second quarter in the division that produces THAAD and Patriot missiles, The Wall Street Journal reported this week. The defense contractor added that it expects backlogged weapons order to reach record territory this year, the Journal said. At Ennis Circuit Court today, the jury delivered a majority not guilty verdict A jury has found former All-Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler, Niall Gilligan not guilty of assaulting a then 12 year old boy with a stick. At Ennis Circuit Court today, the jury delivered a majority not guilty verdict that Mr Gilligan of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge had assaulted causing harm of the boy at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5th 2023. Niall Gilligan at Ennis Circuit Court News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd Mr Gilligan sat impassive in the court as the court registrar read out the not guilty verdicts in the case concerning the assault causing harm charge and use of a stick. Earlier, judge in the assault case has asked the jury in the case to make a fresh start in their deliberations this morning. Judge Francis Comerford sent the jury out at 10.40am to resume their deliberations. In the case, Mr Gilligan (48) of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge denied the assault causing harm with a stick of a then 12-year old boy at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5, 2023. On Tuesday, the jury deliberated for 2 hours and 47 minutes before they returned to the court just before 5pm and the jury foreman asked Judge Comerford: What is the next step if we are not unanimous? In court this morning, Judge Comerford told the jury: I would ask you a fresh start and consider matters again and talk through the issues." Judge Comerford told the jury if they have a question or want to communicate any difficulties they can come back into court. Judge Comerford said that he would call the jury back in the course of the morning to confirm where they are and consider whether to move onto the next stage or not. On Tuesday, Judge Comerford told the jury: "It is always preferable that you try to reach a unanimous verdict - that is the ideal and it is better than any alternative." They jury commenced their deliberations at 12.33pm on Tuesday and before they commenced, Judge Comerford told them that they should make their decision in the case after a cold, direct, forensic determination of the facts. In his closing speech to the jury on Monday counsel for Mr Gilligan, Patrick Whyms BL said in no way is Mr Gilligan trying to suggest that he was entitled to punish the boy as was suggested and said that the injuries sustained by the boy are clearly regrettable. Mr Whyms said that on the evening at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Mr Gilligan didnt know that he was dealing with a child and did not create this situation. Mr Whyms, instructed by solicitor, Daragh Hassett, said that Mr Gilligan "was at the end of his tether" by the vandalism being done to a vacant property he was trying to sell. Putting forward the defence of reasonable force against the charge, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan was at the Jamaica Inn hostel on the night of October 5th in the dark and believed that he was under siege. He said: Believing himself under threat and needing to protect himself and his property, Niall Gilligan needs to make an instant decision and so we are here." Mr Whyms said: And Mr Gilligan, a family man who has young children and no previous convictions gives a clear story which hanst changed and an entirely credible, fulsome account of what happened." Earlier in her closing speech on Monday, Ms Sarah Jane Comerford BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) told the jury: This is a story of a man who lost his cool. She said: Instead of picking up the boy after he slipped and bringing him out to his car and driving him home and telling his parents, he hit him and lost it and he was angry and frustrated. Ms Comerford said that the alleged assault in broad daylight is the action of a man who took out his anger and frustration on a child. There is no evidence that his injuries were caused by anything other than his interactions with Niall Gilligan. Ms Comerford said that Niall Gilligan lost control and punished the boy for the damage and inconvenience caused to his property on a morning when he had to clean up human faeces and urine from his property. All five are charged with assaulting the alleged victim to enhance the ability of a criminal organisation to commit a serious offence The Special Criminal Court has agreed to hear the trials of five men on charges including the production of a "branding stamp", an axe and a steel bar while assaulting and falsely imprisoning a man in a Dublin house. All five are charged with assaulting the alleged victim to enhance the ability of a criminal organisation to commit a serious offence. The accused are Jason Hennessy Jr (28) and Brandon Hennessy (22) of Sheephill Avenue, Blanchardstown and their brother Devon Hennessy (29) of Edgewood Lawns, Corduff, Dublin 15. Kenneth Fitzsimons (45) and his 26-year-old son, Dean Fitzsimons, of Castlecurragh Vale, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 are also charged in relation to the alleged assault. All five are charged with false imprisonment, intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm and with participating in or contributing to the activity of a criminal organisation by assaulting the alleged victim, causing him serious harm. The offences are alleged to have happened on February 12, 2025 at a house in Sheephill Avenue, Blanchardstown in Dublin 15. Jason Hennessy Jr is further charged with threatening to damage property and producing a branding stamp to intimidate another person during a dispute or a fight on the same date and at the same location. Brandon Hennessy is charged with producing a "steel breaker bar" in a manner likely to intimidate another person while committing or appearing to be about to commit an assault. Devon Hennessy is charged with producing a metal branding stamp. Dean Fitzsimons is charged with making a threat to kill or cause serious harm to the alleged victim and producing a metal branding stamp and a steel breaker bar. Kenneth Fitzsimons is charged with producing a steel breaker bar and an axe during the course of a dispute or fight. A solicitor for the Director of Public Prosecutions today applied to have the five men tried before the three-judge, non-jury Special Criminal Court. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding, agreed to make the order and adjourned the matter to next Monday, July 28th. From top left: Kenneth Fitzsimons, Dean Fitzsimons. Bottom from left: Jason Hennessy Jnr, Brandon Hennessy, Devon Hennessy News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd Somalian national Ahmed Abdirahman is accused of murdering his former partner Mary Ward A Central Criminal Court judge has criticised the delay in preparing a psychiatric assessment on a Somalian national accused of the murder of his former partner Mary Ward in Belfast last year. "I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice Paul McDermott, asking both the prosecution and defence teams to establish a timeframe in the case of Ahmed Abdirahman (31). Mr Abdirahman, originally from Somalia and with a last address at Kinlay house, Lord Edward Street, Dublin, is accused of murdering the young mother on September 25, 2024, at her house on Melrose Street in south Belfast. At the Central Criminal Court today, counsel for the State, Antonia Boyle BL said that the book of evidence had not yet been served on the accused due to mental health concerns. The court heard from the defence team that the accused is waiting to be admitted to the Central Mental Hospital, and he has failed to engage with a psychiatrist who attempted to see him. Defence counsel also told the court that there is a jurisdictional issue in the case, as the alleged offence occurred in Northern Ireland, meaning the accused must be given the option to be tried there. Mr Justice McDermott noted that there was still no diagnosis of the accused, so there was no understanding if he was fit to plead or not. He said that he wanted both the defence and the prosecution to contact the Central Mental Hospital to establish a timeframe as to when the issues will be resolved. "There has to be some response. I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice McDermott. The matter was put back to July 30 next. Edel Stirling (45) of Camden Street Lower, Dublin 2, came forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on signed pleas of guilty from the District Court A woman who pushed an elderly man out in front of oncoming traffic as she was trying to rob a bags of tools from him has been jailed for 13 months. Edel Stirling (45) of Camden Street Lower, Dublin 2, came forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on signed pleas of guilty from the District Court. She pleaded guilty to theft, robbery and criminal damage by urinating in a cell at Mountjoy Garda Station on December 13, 2024. The court heard that the 82-year-old man was locking up a premises he had been working in Dublin City Centre when he heard someone rummaging through a plastic bag of tools he had left at the front of the property. He came out to investigate and spotted Stirling running off with the bag. She was accompanied by what the victim described as an intoxicated man. The victim followed and managed to get the tools back off Stirling but she swung out at him and tried to pull the bag back claiming that it belonged to her. A witness to the robbery described Stirling as punching the victim in the face and knocking him to the ground before she continued to punch him in the face. He said the robber also pulled the victim out in front of a taxi, causing the driver to slam on his brakes to avoid impact. Stirling spat at the passerby who had come to the mans assistance and another person took a photograph of her. The victim was left with injuries to his nose, face and head. The gardai were alerted. They were given a description of Stirling and they were informed what direction she had run in. She was arrested a short time later and taken in for questioning but was deemed too intoxicated for interview by a doctor called to the station. Diarmuid Collins BL, prosecuting, said Stirling urinated in the station during the course of her time there. Counsel said she made no admissions during garda interview, when she was later deemed fit, but expressed concern for the welfare of the victim when she was shown photographs of his injuries. Mr Collins said the man had not completed a victim impact statement. Stirling has 40 previous convictions including assault, assault causing harm and 25 bench warrants. Niall Nolan BL, defending, acknowledged that this was a horrific incident for this poor gentleman and accepted he had suffered injuries as a result of the attack. He said his client was a mother of two, who has a history of intoxication, addiction and homelessness but said she has detoxed since her remand in prison and is now stable. Mr Nolan said his client has engaged with various programmes in prison and the staff on those programmes describe her as open and respectful. Counsel submitted that his client had been drinking heavily that day and struggled to recall the incident. He said she was remorseful for the injuries she caused the victim. Judge Dara Hayes noted that the victim had initially got his bag back from Stirling but she continued to be abusive and insisted the bag was hers before she continued the assault. He accepted that she had expressed considerable concern and remorse and was intoxicated that day. The judge further accepted that she engaged well with various programmes in prison. These are serious offences. Significant violence was used against a man, Judge Hayes said before he took into account the age of the victim and the injuries he sustained from the attack. He acknowledged Stirlings co-operation, expression of remorse and her efforts to rehabilitate. Judge Hayes set a headline sentence of three years and half years for the robbery offence, with the other offences taken into account. He reduced this sentence to two years and four months before he suspended the final 15 months on strict conditions. Edel Stirling News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd The images are the first to be captured of McCann since his sixth parole bid was turned down last December Images captured by the Sunday World show double killer Frank McCann back on the streets of capital despite a parole board turned down his latest bid for freedom on the grounds he still poses a threat to society. We videoed McCann in Dublins north inner city on Thursday as he enjoyed one of his frequent and unsupervised days out from the prison. The images are the first to be captured of McCann since his sixth parole bid was turned down last December. Frank McCann on a day out from Mountjoy prison McCann has now spent 30 years behind bars for killing his wife and foster daughter when he torched their house in 1992. He burned down his home on Butterfield Avenue, Rathfarnham, Dublin, while Esther and their foster daughter Jessica slept inside after details about a child he had fathered with a teenage swimming student with special needs emerged. He and Esther had been going through the process of adopting 18-month-old Jessica, the daughter of McCanns own adopted sister, when the mother of the vulnerable teenager who had a child by McCann alerted the adoption authorities out of concern that he was not fit to be a father. McCann knew the fact he was the father of this child was going to be brought up at a meeting with the adoption authorities and set about trying to kill Esther and Jessica, so Esther would never learn about his secret past. It later emerged that McCann had made other attempts on the lives of Esther and Jessica in the weeks before he succeeded. He had previously created a massive gas leak at the house, set fire to an electric blanket on their bed, and tampered with the brakes on Esthers car before setting the blaze that killed them. Publican Frank McCann is led away from the Four Courts having been found guilty of the murders of Esther and Jessica McCann McCanns latest parole bid was vehemently opposed by his victims family and also by McCanns own brother Bernard. Speaking with the Irish Independent last December, Esthers sister Marian said she was pleased McCann would not be gaining freedom any time soon. She confirmed she had made a submission to the Parole Board opposing his release. McCann was found guilty of murdering Esther and Jessica by setting fire to their home in Rathfarnham, Dublin The decision by the Parole Board allows us to feel more at peace this Christmas. McCann will not be a spectre casting a shadow over joyous times. Its good to focus on the safety and peace we have while he remains incarcerated, she said. Our Christmas will be free of watching out for that evil man, she added. McCanns brother Bernard, who also made a submission to the Parole Board opposing Franks application for parole, said he was glad of the decision. Esther and Jessica Two innocent people lost their lives because of that awful crime, and I think a life sentence should mean life for him. We will have 18 months of peace now before he can apply again, he said. Despite McCanns parole bid being refused, its understood he is given unsupervised temporary release from Mountjoy several days a week to attend an employment course in the south inner-city, and also to attend a city library before returning to jail for the night. Double killer Frank McCann Two years ago, it emerged he had posted his CV online on employment site LinkedIn. In his CV, McCann had described himself as an enthusiastic achiever and problem-solver. He also said he was an analytical thinker with good troubleshooting ability, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, good telephone manner and a confident and engaging personality. The CV was removed after it became public. After losing his sixth bid for freedom last December, McCann will have to wait until March 2026 before his next parole application. News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd Lifers in Portlaoise Prison allowed to use George Foreman but miss out on full kitchen privileges for paramilitaries Prisoners serving life sentences for murder now have access to kitchenettes to cook food while serving their time in the high-security Portlaoise Prison. But while paramilitary inmates can order in their own food and use their own kitchen, the ordinary criminals have make to do with what is supplied. The kitchenettes dont have a hob or ovens but are equipped with a George Foreman style grill or a toaster, according sources. Theres no provision for them to acquire their own groceries like the handful of paramilitary inmates who are in the prisons E-block. The Irish Prison Service said they do not comment on security or operational matters. Contract killer Gary Campion Similar privileges for gangland inmates caused a national outcry in 2007 when it emerged food was being ordered in and cooked by the prisoners themselves. It came after Finglas gangster John Daly rang Joe Duffys Liveline from his prison cell. At the time Daly and high-profile prisoners such as John Gilligan and Limerick drug dealer Christy Keane enjoyed the privilege of using their own kitchen. The Sunday World revealed how inmates were able to order food from outside which was collected and cooked in their own kitchen in the E1 landing. Prisoners were also able to order TVs for the cells which were collected and delivered by prison staff. INFAMOUS: Wayne Dundon was transferred from Mountjoy to Portlaoise One inmate at the time was even allowed to keep a pair of budgies which serving his time in the high-security prison. In the subsequent crackdown on what was then known as the gangland corridor the kitchen was stripped out. During searches of the prison landing 19 phones were also phone and Gilligan who had been acting as the prisoners spokesperson was put into isolation. The Irish Prison Service also runs independent living units in prisons such as Castlerea where inmates in The Grove live in chalets. Eamon Cumberton, who murdered Michael Barr The regimes at Shelton Abbey and Loughan House open prisons are also designed to help soon-to-be released to prepare for the transition back into the community. Prisoners serving life in Portlaoise include a number of the country s most notorious gangland killers. Wayne Dundon (47), a leading figure of the McCarthy-Dundon gang is the best know lifer serving his time at the moment in Portlaoise Prison. The Limerick gang boss was found guilty of ordering the murder of businessman man Roy Collins jr in 2009 murder that shocked the city. His former sister-in-law April Collins became a key State witness giving evidence of the Dundon's role in ordering the killing. CAPITAL MURDER: Aaron Brady killed Garda Adrian Donohue Dundon has not spent his time behind bars quietly and was transferred to Portlaoise from Mountjoy after being suspected of inciting a fight which turned into a serious brawl. Armagh man Aaron Brady (34) who is serving a life sentence of the capital murder of Garda Adrian Donohoe is also an inmate in the prison. Brady, who lost his appeal against the murder conviction, also admitted trying to intimidate a witness in the murder trial, while behind bars. Thomas McConnell Serving two life sentences in the same facility is Limerick gangland contract killer Gary Campion. He was found guilty of the shocking assassination of innocent man Brian Fitzgerald 2002 who had refused to let Dundon gang drug dealers into a night club. Campion was also convicted of the killing gangster Frankie Ryan in 2006 as he sat in a car in Moyross. Now aged 43, he almost died behind bars after lapsing into a coma in 2016 in suspected drugs overdose while in Mountjoy Prison. Notorious killer Warren Dumbrell, who kicked a man to death Another Limerick gangland killer there is Greg Crawford (38) who was convicted of shooting dead Gareth Grant at his Island Field home in 2007. Once one of the most notorious inmates in the prison system Warren Dumbrell (51) is in Portlaoise serving life for kicking a man to death after being released from another prison sentence. He had been a ringleader in the infamous 1997 Mountjoy siege in which four prison staff were held hostage. There are also Dublin gangland killers who could be eligible for the kitchen privileges while they serve life sentences for Hutch-Kinahan feud related killings. Thomas McConnell (39), one of four people serving life for the 2016 feud murder of Gareth Hutch outside his Dublin city home. GUNMAN: Greg Crawford Another Kinahan Cartel killer in the prison is Eamon Cumberton (38) a professional mixed martial arts fighter who is serving life for the murder of Michael Barr in the Sunset House pub in 2016. The likes of IRA men Kevin Braney (51), Sharif Kelly (55) and Edward McGrath (44) enjoy the full kitchen privileges which have not been extended to non-paramilitary lifers. Kelly and McGrath were jailed for the 2013 murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly who was shot dead after being lured to a meeting. Braney who is considered the officer in commanded of the IRA prisoners and was convicted of planning Butterlys killing. Another Real IRA linked prisoner serving life in the prison is Stephen Connolly (46) who admitted the 2012 murder of veteran gangster Eamon Kelly. Contract killer Gary Campion, gangster Wayne Dundon and gunman Greg Crawford News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd The 68-year-old was waiting to hear whether he had to start a prison sentence in Spain over a 2013 cocaine seizure A notorious British drug trafficker with his own Wikipedia page has died on the Costa Blanca. Brian Charrington, an ex-associate of former international cocaine baron Curtis Warren, passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning at Marina Baixa Hospital in Villajoyosa near Benidorm. The 68-year-old was waiting to hear whether he had to start a prison sentence in Spain over a 2013 cocaine seizure. His defence lawyer had requested the suspension of the eight year jail term on health grounds. Charrington started out as a car dealer in Middlesborough but went on to own a Rolls Royce, Bentley, private jet and fleet of yachts thanks to his international drugs empire. In 2011 his fortune was put at 20 million. In the eighties he teamed up with Curtis Warren, whose personal fortune was so large he appeared on the Sunday Times Rich List, to import cocaine to the UK from Venezuela. The pair were arrested in early 1992 after a shipment of more than 900 kilos of cocaine sealed inside lead ingots in steel boxes was discovered. The subsequent trial collapsed after it transpired Charrington was a police informant for the North-East Regional Crime Squad. Britain's security forces went on to re-home him in Australia but his visa was revoked shortly after his arrival. He went on to build up links with north African drug dealers after relocating to Spain and laundered millions of pounds from a fortified villa on Spain's Costa Blanca which he used to bring hashish from Morocco across the border. He was acquitted in two drugs trials in the UK before being extradited to Germany and sentenced to seven years jail in 2003 for conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the country. Charrington was extradited to France following his release in 2006 to serve a two year prison term over the discovery of 650 kilos of hashish found on his yacht in the English channel in 1995. In 2004 he lost a civil suit against the Assets Recovery Agency over more than 2 million found in his loft which he and Curtis Warren disputed the ownership of. The civil recovery order against him and Warren was described at the time as the largest of its kind. Spanish police described Charrington after his 2013 arrest in Spain as "one of the ten most investigated criminals" by European police forces and "leader of an international gang of drug smugglers." Spanish police held Charrington in 2013 along with a number of other people including his French girlfriend Isabelle Robert and son Ray after a long-running investigation sparked by a tip-off from French police that he and Robert were smuggling cocaine into Europe from Venezuela. Their luxury villas in Calpe near Benidorm on the Costa Blanca were among a number of homes raided by police on July 4 2013. Brian Charrington News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd In a subsequent indictment in which prosecutors initially demanded an 18-year prison sentence for Charrington, they claimed he tried to erase information he had chalked on a blackboard in his office about amounts of cocaine and sale prices during the raid on his home. Police revealed at the time of the operation they had seized 220 kilos of cocaine worth 10 million at another apartment in Albir near Benidorm, said to have been smuggled into Spain through the nearby port of Altea. Britain's Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA), Venezuelan police and a regional 18-member-state police organisation called Ameripol set up to fight drug trafficking, were also involved. Drug lord Charringtons original 2018 trial and conviction following the 2013 drug bust was quashed by Spains Supreme Court over impartiality issues and a second trial had to be held. That resulted in an eight year five month prison sentence for the Brit criminal which his lawyers were trying to get him exempted from serving because of his poor health. The Spanish courts had yet to rule on Charringtons lawyers request when he passed away. One of Brians three grown-up children wrote on social media late last night: Rest in peace Dad. The Brit criminal is understood to have been admitted to hospital shortly before his death. Students father told his throat would be cut over Palestine support Police were called to a university graduation after a students father was threatened with having his throat cut. The class of 25 were receiving their degrees in politics at a ceremony at Belfasts Waterfront Hall when a student unfurled a Palestinian flag moments after received his scroll. The display of solidarity with the people of Gaza drew thunderous applause and cheers from the audience. But it didnt meet with approval from several disgruntled guests. The Sunday World can reveal the ceremony was marred when a known loyalist with links to East Belfast UVF rounded on a father who was there to see his daughter get her degree, threatening to kill him. The proud father said he applauded the flag-carrying student as did most of the audience. He said the man sitting directly in front him went into a rage. He lost it, totally lost it, he turned round and shouted that he was going to kill me, he said he was going to slit my throat, it was full-on. He said he refused to respond. I was aware of other people around me and what the day meant for everyone. I was there to see my daughter receive her degree, such a proud moment. I didnt want to take way from the occasion by getting into a row with this individual. He said the incident escalated outside the main auditorium as attendees enjoyed refreshments. He said his tormentor barged into his daughter to confront him again. He assaulted my daughter, he absolutely assaulted her, shoving her out of the way in a really violent way, he said. He paid tribute to the security staff who immediately intervened to prevent the situation getting out of control. They were great they reacted very quickly, he said. He said his daughter had registered a complaint with the PSNI. The PSNI confirmed they were informed of two incidents on July 10 but that no further action was being taken. Police received a report of an altercation in the Lanyon Place area of Belfast on Thursday, 10th of July at around midday. This matter was investigated and no offences were detected, police told the Sunday World. A further report of an assault in the same area was made at around 7.30pm on Thursday, 10th of July. Enquiries were made and no complaint was received. The Sunday World is aware of the identity of the man at the centre of the alleged assault. His social media shows him in paramilitary-style uniform and posing at a UVF memorial in the east of the city. He is not thought to have any convictions. He is believed to have been at the Waterfront to support a family member who had graduated. Belfasts Waterfront Hall News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd In a separate development it has emerged that a video of the graduation ceremony posted on the University of Ulster website was initially taken down and then put back up with footage of the flag incident taken down. That was disappointing, said the father who contacted the Sunday World. His gesture was greeted with support from the majority of the people at the Waterfront, and that is the feeling within the students and should not be edited out. The University of Ulster confirmed a protest had taken place. Graduation is a significant milestone for Ulster University and our students, enjoyed in recent weeks by almost 5,000 graduates and their families across 19 ceremonies in Derry-Londonderry, Coleraine and Belfast. The university acknowledges that a peaceful expression of support occurred during one of these recent ceremonies. The university respects the right of freedom of expression. Alongside this, we take seriously our responsibility to maintain a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment, including at our graduation ceremonies where our primary focus is on celebrating the achievements of all our students during their time with Ulster University. Pro-Palestine protests have become a familiar sight at graduation ceremonies across the UK this summer. This week graduates at Edinburgh University staged a mass walkout and protest. Graduates waved flags with slogans such as No universities in Gaza, Jews say divest, and Fund teaching not genocide as they took to the stage. Videos on social media showed the event being interrupted as a student protester shouted from the crowd: How dare you? The UN has explicitly named the University of Edinburgh as one of the most significantly financially complicit universities in the Gaza genocide. A large group of students were seen to rise, chanting, before walking out of the ceremony. The Edinburgh University Justice for Palestine Society posted other clips and reported that further protests had happened during ceremonies for biomedical sciences, engineering, chemistry, physics, and English Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur It came after a report by Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, named the University of Edinburgh as one of the most financially entangled institutions in the UK to Israel. With both direct and indexed investments, the university ranks among the most financially entangled institutions in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Ms Albanese reported. Earlier in the summer a graduation ceremony at Cambridge was disrupted with pro-Palestine protesters accusing the university of being complicit in the genocide in Gaza. Police said four people from the same household sustained gunshot wounds at a house on Drummeer Road in Maguiresbridge Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Forensic officers at the scene in Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh, Forensics at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The PSNI is probing a triple murder and attempted suicide as a line of inquiry after three people were killed in a shooting in Co Fermanagh earlier this morning. Police said four people from the same household sustained gunshot wounds at a house on Drummeer Road in Maguiresbridge. Two people were pronounced dead at the scene and the third person passed away in the South West Acute Hospital. The fatalities include two children one boy and one girl and a woman in her 40s. A man remains in hospital in a serious condition. While the investigation is still at an early stage, District Commander Superintendent Robert McGowan confirmed a triple-murder and attempted suicide is being pursued as a line of enquiry as well as a mental health aspect to the case. Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) We have now commenced a murder investigation and are working at pace to determine the circumstances he said. This is a quiet a rural location and Im aware that this tragic event will send shockwaves and sadness throughout the community. "Please be assured that you will see a continued police presence in the area as we continue to carry out our enquiries. During a media briefing this afternoon, Superintendent McGowan said the surviving individual is a male adult and has a "limited footprint" with police. The officer added there is a "limited domestic history involving those in the household as he said police believe the alarm was raised from inside the house. He said: The alarm was raised I believe by a phone call made from the house. The PSNI said it is not anticipated at this stage that any further arrests will be made. Forensic officers have been gathering clues at the property throughout the afternoon. Police, paramedics, and the Air Ambulance were despatched following the emergency call with the PSNI describing the scene as harrowing. In a statement Superintendent McGowan said: Earlier this morning, Wednesday 23 July, police received the report of an incident in Maguiresbridge. Emergency services at the scene of a serious ongoing incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Officers, along with our colleagues in the Northern Ambulance Service, attended a house in the Drummeer Road area. Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has, this afternoon, passed away in hospital. A fourth person who was taken to hospital remains in a condition described as serious. All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household. I am keen to, first and foremost, express my sympathy to family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock, and who will inevitably be struggling to come to terms with their unimaginable loss. Superintendent McGowan continued: Our enquiries are at an early stage, and I would appeal for patience as we work to understand the events that have taken place. We will continue to bring updates as our investigation continues." Speaking about the incident, First Minister Michelle ONeill said she was heartbroken following the news. "My thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and the local community, she wrote online. "I have no doubt that the people of Maguiresbridge will come together and support one another though this incredibly difficult time. Forensic officers at the scene in Maguiresbridge, Co Fermanagh, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly described the incident as terrible news. "Truly devastating to hear of this terrible and violent event, she wrote. My thoughts at this dreadful time are with the loved ones, family and friends but most of all for the tragedy of the lives cut off so cruelly." Dame Arlene Foster who grew up and still lives in Co Fermanagh described the incident as a horrific act. The former DUP First Minister posted: The news from Maguiresbridge this morning is devastating beyond words. "I am so very sorry for the family involved and praying for all impacted by this horrific act. Forensics at the scene of a shooting incident on Drummeer Road Maguiresbridge in Fermanagh on July 23rd 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) News in 90 Seconds - July 24th St Marys Maguiresbridge Gaelic Football Club and Lisbellaw St. Patricks Hurling Club both offered their heartfelt condolences and said the deceased were all active and beloved members of both clubs. We are working with the GAA at county, provincial and national level, to implement the Associations critical incident protocols, they both posted on social media. We will work closely with all appropriate services to ensure that those who require support at this difficult time can access it. Local UUP councillor Victor Warrington told the Belfast Telegraph it is a very sad situation. Regardless of who the individuals are, everybody in the wider community is devastated with the news. "This is an area where everyone know everyone, and everyone looks out for each other, so this will cause a lot of sadness for a lot of people. Forensics "My thoughts are will the family and friends of those affected, he said. SDLP leader Claire Hanna described the shooting as an unspeakable tragedy which will leave people across the island shocked and saddened. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those killed and injured as they come to terms with what has happened here. "We are also thinking of people in Maguiresbridge who are dealing with an incident like this taking place on their doorsteps. I would urge the public to give the police space as they investigate what happened here and encourage people to show respect and decency, particularly online, and to avoid speculating as those impacted process this news. Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen also offered her sympathies to the families of those involved. Speaking at the police cordon to the Belfast Telegraph she thanked emergency services for working under such "tragic circumstances. Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Diana Armstrong said it was heartbreaking and distressing news. "The loss of life and the serious injuries reported have shocked the local community, she said. "My office has been in contact with the PSNI this morning and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely. The Emergency services acted swiftly and professionally. "My thoughts are with the families of those affected and with everyone in this rural local community as they come to terms with this tragedy. I ask that the public allow space for the investigation to proceed and respect the privacy of those involved at this difficult time. Local MLA Deborah Erskine said the entire community is stunned. "The area of Maguiresbridge where this has happened is a rural, quiet area and everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning, she said. My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning. This morning I was speaking to Police dealing with the incident. I paid tribute to the emergency services at the scene. I also appeal for privacy to allow the PSNI to carry out their investigations. UN chief hits out at horror show More than 100 largely aid and rights groups on Wednesday called for governments to take action as hunger spreads in Gaza, including by demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the lifting of all restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid. In a statement signed by 111 organizations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Refugees International, the groups warned that mass starvation was spreading across the enclave even as tons of food, clean water, medical supplies and other items sit untouched just outside Gaza as humanitarian organizations are blocked from accessing or delivering them. "As the Israeli government's siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families. With supplies now totally depleted, humanitarian organisations are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes," the organizations said. "The Government of Israel's restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death." Israeli activists take part in a protest against the war in the Gaza Strip, Israel's measures regarding food distribution and the forced displacement of Palestinians, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) The organizations called for governments to demand that all bureaucratic and administrative restrictions be lifted, all land crossings be opened, access to everyone across Gaza to be ensured and for the rejection of military-controlled distribution and a restoration of a "principled, UN-led humanitarian response." "States must pursue concrete measures to end the siege, such as halting the transfer of weapons and ammunition." Israel, which controls all supplies entering Gaza, denies it is responsible for shortages of food. More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the Gaza Strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor, the U.N. human rights office said Tuesday. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes killed 25 people across Gaza, according to local health officials. Horror show The U.N. Security Council urged the 193 United Nations member nations on Tuesday to use all possible means to settle disputes peacefully. The U.N. chief said that is needed now more than ever as he pointed to the horror show in Gaza and conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar. The vote was unanimous on a Pakistan-drafted resolution in the 15-member council. In urging greater efforts to pursue global peace, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the council: Around the world, we see an utter disregard for if not outright violations of international law as well as the U.N. Charter. Israeli activists take part in a protest It is happening at a time of widening geopolitical divides and numerous conflicts, starting with Gaza, where starvation is knocking on every door as Israel denies the United Nations the space and safety to deliver aid and save Palestinian lives, Guterres said. Micheal Martin has called for the war in Gaza to end, describing the images of starving children as horrific. Mr Martin called for a surge in humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza. It comes following reports of children dying due to malnutrition and starvation in recent days. Palestinians in Gaza are facing severe shortages of food, water and aid. It comes after Tanaiste Simon Harris was one of 26 signatories to a joint statement on Monday, which calls for an end to the war in Gaza. Mr Harris, who is also Minister for Foreign Affairs, said the suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths. Palestinians carry sacks of flour unloaded from a humanitarian aid convoy that reached Gaza City from the northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) In a social media post, Mr Martin said: The situation in Gaza is horrific. The suffering of civilians and the death of innocent children is intolerable. I echo the call by foreign ministers of 28 countries for all hostages to be released, and for a surge in humanitarian aid. This war must end and it must end now. Desperation is mounting in the Palestinian territory of more than 2 million, which experts say is at risk of famine because of Israel's blockade and nearly two-year offensive. A breakdown of law and order has led to widespread looting and contributed to chaos and violence around aid deliveries. Israel accuses Hamas of siphoning off aid without providing evidence of widespread diversion and blames U.N. agencies for failing to deliver food it has allowed in. The military says it has only fired warning shots near aid sites. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an Israeli-backed American contractor, rejected what it said were false and exaggerated statistics from the United Nations. 80 children die of starvation The Gaza Health Ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals, said Tuesday that 101 people, including 80 children, have died in recent days from starvation. The deaths could not be independently verified, but U.N. officials and major international aid groups say the conditions for starvation exist in Gaza. During hunger crises, people can die from malnutrition or from common illnesses or injuries that the body is not strong enough to fight. Israel eased a 2-month blockade in May, allowing a trickle of aid in through the longstanding U.N.-run system and the newly created GHF. Aid groups say it's not nearly enough. Dozens of Palestinians lined up Tuesday outside a charity kitchen in Gaza City, hoping for a bowl of watery tomato soup. The lucky ones got small chunks of eggplant. As supplies ran out, people holding pots pushed and shoved to get to the front. Nadia Mdoukh, a pregnant woman who was displaced from her home and lives in a tent with her husband and three children, said she worries about being shoved or trampled on, and about heat stroke as daytime temperatures hover above 90 F (32 C). I do it for my children," she said. This is famine there is no bread or flour. Palestinians gather to receive food from a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, in Nuseirat, central Gaza Strip, July 20, 2025. REUTERS/Ramadan Abed The U.N. World Food Program says Gazas hunger crisis has reached new and astonishing levels of desperation. Ross Smith, the agencys director for emergencies, told reporters Monday that nearly 100,000 women and children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition, and a third of Gazas population is going without food for multiple days in a row. MedGlobal, a charity working in Gaza, said five children as young as 3 months had died from starvation in the past three days. This is a deliberate and human-made disaster," said Joseph Belliveau, its executive director. "Those children died because there is not enough food in Gaza and not enough medicines, including IV fluids and therapeutic formula, to revive them. The charity said food is in such short supply that its own staff members suffer dizziness and headaches. Of the 1,054 people killed while trying to get food since late May, 766 were killed while heading to sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, according to the U.N. human rights office. The others were killed when gunfire erupted around U.N. convoys or aid sites. Thameen al-Kheetan, a spokesperson for the U.N. rights office, says its figures come from multiple reliable sources on the ground, including medics, humanitarian and human rights organizations. He said the numbers were still being verified according to the office's strict methodology. Palestinian witnesses and health officials say Israeli forces regularly fire toward crowds of thousands of people heading to the GHF sites. The military says it has only fired warning shots, and GHF says its armed contractors have only fired into the air on a few occasions to try to prevent stampedes. Countries statement A joint statement from 28 Western-aligned countries on Monday condemned the the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians. The Israeli governments aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity, read the statement, which was signed by the United Kingdom, France and other countries friendly to Israel. The Israeli governments denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable. Israel and the United States rejected the statement, blaming Hamas for prolonging the war by not accepting Israeli terms for a ceasefire and the release of hostages abducted in the militant-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, which triggered the fighting. Hamas has said it will release the remaining hostages only in return for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel says it will keep fighting until Hamas has been defeated or disarmed. Israeli strikes killed at least 25 people Tuesday across Gaza, according to local health officials. One strike hit tents sheltering displaced people in the built-up seaside Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The Israeli military said that it wasn't aware of such a strike by its forces. The dead included three women and three children, the hospital director, Dr. Mohamed Abu Selmiya, told The Associated Press. Thirty-eight other Palestinians were wounded, he said. An overnight strike that hit crowds of Palestinians waiting for aid trucks in Gaza City killed eight, hospitals said. At least 118 were wounded, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent. A bag of flour covered in blood and death," said Mohammed Issam, who was in the crowd and said some people were run over by trucks in the chaos. "How long will this humiliation continue? The Israeli military had no immediate comment on that strike. Israel blames the deaths of Palestinian civilians on Hamas, because the militants operate in densely populated areas. Israel renewed its offensive in March with a surprise bombardment after ending an earlier ceasefire. Talks on another truce have dragged on for weeks despite pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in the Oct. 7 attack, and killed around 1,200 people. Fewer than half of the 50 hostages still in Gaza are believed to be alive. More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed during the war, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its count doesn't distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. The U.N. and other international organizations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties. Palestinian mother Alaa Al-Najjar mourns her three-month-old baby Yehia, who died due to malnutrition amid a hunger crisis News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd We can reveal that Jill Robinson, who washed Jonathan Creswells clothes after he killed the 21-year-old in August 2020, gives an explosive interview to the makers of Death of a Showjumper A Sky documentary about the murder of showjumper Katie Simpson was pulled after her family complained about how one of the women convicted of covering up the murder was portrayed, the Sunday World has learned. We can reveal that Jill Robinson, who washed Jonathan Creswells clothes after he killed the 21-year-old in August 2020, gives an explosive interview to the makers of Death of a Showjumper. She was one of three women convicted of being involved in the cover-up but she is the only one of the three who agreed to take part in the documentary. Episode one of the three-part show was due to be shown last Wednesday but Sky postponed the screening at the last minute, despite massive publicity. Jill Robinson The family along with their solicitor met the production team from Walk On Air and Sky Studios and its understood all issues have now been resolved and the show is due to be aired soon. We understand one of the issues that troubled people close to the family who were given an advance viewing of the three-part series was how 43-year-old Robinson was portrayed. Robinson, who admitted to perverting the course of justice by washing Creswells clothes and was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for two years, features throughout the documentary. Meanwhile, it has been claimed that Katie might still be alive if cops had captured Creswell back in 2016 for indecent exposure. Creswell, who took his own life on the second day of his trial for rape and murder of Katie, evaded justice by fleeing across the border to County Donegal in 2016 when a couple made a complaint about him exposing his genitals and making threats to kill them while they worked at stables in County Antrim with him. Creswell was never arrested for that, the case was closed as cops said they could not trace him, despite Creswell setting up a new business in Donegal and repeatedly travelling back into Northern Ireland to attend horse shows and hunt balls. Death of a Showjumper details the shocking death of Katie Simpson A campaigning journalist who features in Death of a Showjumper says Katie might not have been murdered if police had been more diligent in tracing Creswell, especially as by the time he exposed himself he already had served time in jail for battering previous partner Abi Lyle. Tanya Fowles, who fought to have cops reopen the Katie Simpson case after concerns were raised to her about the suicide claim, says police were warned about just how dangerous Creswell was. The exposure victim and her partner who we are calling Sarah and Ian worked with Creswell briefly in late 2015. After exposing himself, he was challenged by Ian and Creswell threatened to snap (Ians) neck and break his back while shouting, your c**t of a girlfriend will get whats coming. Jonathan Creswell When Sarah was a victim of Creswells behaviour in 2016 and reported him to police she was very clear to stress he was dangerous, Tanya told the Sunday World. She recounted very specific details which in essence pointed to him being predatory, sexually deviant and particularly dangerous to females. After around a year she was told he could not be found and the PPS had declined to prosecute. When the murder trial ended last year Sarah reported her concerns to the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI)who dismissed her complaint, contending the PSNI had carried out extensive searches for Creswell and believed he had fled to ROI. She then contacted me and I very quickly found evidence of Creswell being repeatedly in Northern Ireland and even at the very stable yard where the incident occurred. In fact when he went for High Court bail after being charged with Katies murder, Sarahs case was used as an objection that he may try to flee if released as he had done in the past but his own barrister confirmed he had gone to live in Donegal but apparently drove to the Antrim yard daily to work and police never came looking for him. Death of a Showjumper However, what became more concerning in this already epic failure by PSNI around Creswell, I submitted multiple press enquires and FOIs on Sarahs case which have all been stonewalled. If PSNI had taken Sarahs account seriously especially coming on the back of his appalling behaviour against Abi Lyle Katie may well be alive today. This is something which really troubles Sarah and while Creswell was the perpetrator with overall responsibility for his conduct, the PSNIs laxity in addressing this when critical information was brought to their attention meant he ran free and unfettered. Sarah went back to the Police Ombudsman with the new information about Creswell being seen regularly in Northern Ireland and the new team have reopened her case. The Sunday World can reveal the handling of those complaints made by the couple he threatened are part of a massive PONI probe which has seen 13 police officers investigated. Specialist investigating officers have been brought in from London to look into various potential failures with the handling of the Katie murder. Currently seven police officers are being investigated while six were already looked into during an initial investigation which resulted in an apology from the PSNI. Five of those 13 have retired while under investigation across two separate probes from the police watchdog. We can reveal two retired while being investigated in the first probe while three were disciplined and one was cleared. In the second probe, which is ongoing, three officers have retired and four are still serving. The investigation is muti-layered and covers not just the initial failure to treat the murder as a suicide but also the second police investigation and most importantly potential police failures dating back to 2016. Three of the complaints to PONI were made after the collapse of the trial last year when Creswell took his own life. One complaint has been made about an officer and their conduct while another relates to the overall second police investigation including the failure of police to charge a fourth woman who we understand had admitted to police she was aware Katie had been beaten by Creswell the night before and that he had taken her phone. In August 2020, Katie, a talented showjumper originally from Tynan in Co Armagh, was living with Creswell, his partner Christina, who was Katies sister, and Creswell and Christinas two young children at Gortnessy Meadows on the Derry outskirts. Shortly before 8.30am on August 3 that year, a 999 call was made saying Katie had been found in the house after apparently having tried to take her own life. Creswell said he found Katie when he returned to the house after taking his children to his mothers house. Instead of waiting for emergency crews, Creswell put Katie in his car and drove towards Altnagelvin Hospital. En route, he was told by a 999 handler to pull over and start CPR on Katie. In a recording of the call, Creswell can be heard counting as he supposedly does resuscitation chest presses. This, it later turned out, was all an act. Paramedics arrived at the scene and took over the efforts to revive Katie before taking her to the hospital. She never regained consciousness and died on August 9, 2020. Katie Simpson News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd Journalists and observers gather at a press briefing by Syria's National Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding on the March coastal violence in Damascus, Syria, July 22, 2025. Syria's National Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding said Tuesday it has submitted to authorities its final report on the March coastal violence, confirming 1,426 deaths while attributing violations to both "remnants" of the former government and elements of the current security forces. After four months of field investigations across 33 towns, including mass grave inspections and 938 witness testimonies, the committee identified 265 individuals suspected of major violations including murder, torture, and property destruction, committee spokesperson Yasser Farhan said here at the press conference. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) DAMASCUS, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Syria's National Committee for Investigation and Fact-Finding said Tuesday it has submitted to authorities its final report on the March coastal violence, confirming 1,426 deaths while attributing violations to both "remnants" of the former government and elements of the current security forces. After four months of field investigations across 33 towns, including mass grave inspections and 938 witness testimonies, the committee identified 265 individuals suspected of major violations including murder, torture, and property destruction, committee spokesperson Yasser Farhan said here at a press conference. According to the report, the violence erupted on March 6 when armed groups linked to Bashar al-Assad's government launched coordinated attacks in Latakia, Tartous, and Hama, attempting to secede the coast. Interim government forces and allied militias responded with chaotic counter-operations involving over 200,000 fighters, leading to widespread civilian casualties and alleged extrajudicial killings, including the death of 90 women. The report urged greater oversight, full military integration and judicial reforms while acknowledging the state efforts to curb abuses. Full publication of the report's sensitive components will depend on presidential review, given its legal, security and political implications, Farhan said. Meanwhile, Jumaa al-Enezi, head of the committee, called for urgent transitional justice, victim compensation, and state institution reforms in Syria. A poacher found with 619 paua he intended to sell has been sent to prison for two years and six months. Ruteru Sufia, 63, was sentenced in the Porirua District Court on Tuesday on four charges under the Fisheries Act and one charge under the Fisheries (Amateur Fishing) Regulations, following a successful prosecution by the Ministry for Primary Industries. The court also banned him from all forms of fishing for three years. The sentencing serves as a reminder to people about the collection of paua. In November 2022, Fishery Officers carried out a search warrant at Sufias home and found 65 paua in a freezer along with 554 shucked paua in another freezer. This was a large amount of paua, more than 60 times the daily catch limit and more than 30 times the accumulation limit. Also, 45 of the paua found were undersize, said Phil Tasker, Fisheries New Zealand regional manager of fisheries compliance, said in a statement. While on bail on those charges, Sufia was caught with a further 48 paua, with 29 less than the minimum legal size. He was sentenced on all matters yesterday. Sufia intended to sell this seafood, which is also illegal. We have zero tolerance for poachers they affect the sustainability of our shared fisheries, and they affect people who legitimately trade in seafood, said Tasker. Sufia claimed the paua in his freezer was for a wedding in Auckland, an explanation the court didnt believe. Tasker said when officers find evidence of illegal fishing you can be assured that we will investigate and depending on the circumstances, place the matter before the court. MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministrys 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 47 62 24). A Bay of Plenty property owner is beginning to despair as weeds take over an area once home to native tress and shrubs. Resident Brent Sheather complained to Whakatane District Council about the destruction to plants and trees on council reserve land almost a year ago, but says little has been done. His property shares a boundary with reserve land at the top of Ohopes West End escarpment, near Whakatane, which the council describes as a significant biodiversity area. Sheather spent much of his free time removing invasive plant species from the area, but said parts of the bush have been destroyed near neighbouring properties Last year, he reported to the council the removal and poisoning of five finger, kawakawa and other small trees and shrubs by the reserve boundary. The felling of a tall mahoe tree prompted him to approach the media; Local Democracy Reporting covered the issue in September 2024. Council staff visited the site at the time and told Sheather they would do something about it, but he said little appears to have been done. Apart from some limited planting of natives, the biggest change has been that the cleared area has been repopulated by invasive weeds including jasmine, cherry trees, ginger and woolly nightshade, to name just a few, he said. Chickens were also seen on the public reserve land, he said. One of several stumps showing where shrubs and trees have been removed. Council resource consents manager Mike Avery said staff were creating a restoration plan for the area. The council was also working with the landowners by the boundary to ensure an appropriate resolution was reached, Avery said. Professional assessments were commissioned to evaluate the extent and impact of the activities undertaken. Based on the findings of those assessments, it was determined that putting a restoration plan in place for the area was found to be appropriate. The council remains committed to protecting areas of significant biodiversity and will continue to engage constructively to restore and safeguard these spaces. But Sheather said this was not enough. The lack of action by council means that non-native species have established themselves in the area formerly occupied by native trees. Whilst the comments from Mike Avery sound encouraging, the reality on the ground is that very little, if anything, has changed in almost one year since the council was notified of the destruction that had occurred in this area. There has been lots of planning but no execution. He pointed out the councils vision on its website: We will be successful guardians of our natural environment and as a district council we will achieve this through outstanding service delivery. Sheather said the council had been anything but a successful guardian of the natural environment. There has been absolutely no service delivery, let alone outstanding service delivery, he said. While critical of the lack of action, he was full of praise for the councils frontline staff. I have been fortunate to deal with a number of frontline council staff, and they impressed as being dedicated to their jobs and interested in doing the right thing for the environment. LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air. A Whakatane district councillor says he was surprised and amused to learn from police that he had been accused of a hate crime by a woman in Tel Aviv, Israel. On July 13, Whakatane-Ohope ward councillor Nandor Tanczos shared a link on his personal Facebook page to an online petition calling for United Nations special rapporteur Francesca Albanese and the doctors of Gaza to be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. The United States imposed sanctions on Albanese, an outspoken critic of Israels military offensive in Gaza, earlier this month. Tanczos - a former Green Party list MP - said the petition was created after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus nomination of US President Donald Trump for the prize. The prestigious prize is awarded annually to the person who has done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses. Whakatane-Ohope ward councillor Nandor Tanczos. Tanczos said he had also posted some anti-genocide stuff about the war in Gaza. The councillor regularly shares news articles, opinion pieces and his own views on the conflict via his personal Facebook page. He said he was contacted through his Facebook page by a woman in Tel Aviv who accused him of anti-Semitism and said she had two children in the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) who were good people. Tanczos responded to her, explaining that he had nothing against Jewish people, only against the current actions being taken in Gaza by the IDF. Three days later, he said he received a courtesy call from the Whakatane police. The woman rang them from Tel Aviv to complain about my social media posts. Tanczos said he was surprised to learn that opposing what he believed to be genocide, was a hate crime in her eyes. He said he was assured by the police officer who phoned him that they had looked into his online activity and informed the complainant that no crime had been committed. The police were great. It was just a courtesy call to let me know what had happened. It actually made me laugh to think that someone from Tel Aviv would go as far as reporting me to the New Zealand Police about this. Tanczos said the experience would not stop him from expressing his opinions on Facebook. I dont have any hesitation in denouncing Israels actions in Gaza. Im not anti-Semitic. Whakatane police were not available to comment but a senior media adviser from police national headquarters said she did not think complaints of this type were common. LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air. SUR Malaga Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 13:50 Share SUR has handed over more than 36,000 historical editions of the newspaper to the Biblioteca de Andalucia (library of Andalucia), as part of a large donation from publishers comprising of thirteen collections of local press from Granada, Malaga, Jaen and Almeria provinces. In total, the library, which is part of the Andalusian regional government's department for culture and sport, based in Granada, has added more than 140,000 copies of SUR and Ideal newspapers published between 1932 and 2023 to its collection. "The Ideal of Granada and SUR of Malaga newspapers are fundamental for the knowledge and study of the political, social, economic and cultural development of contemporary Andalucia," said the regional spokesperson for culture, Patricia del Pozo, during the presentation of this donation on Tuesday 22 July in Granada. Del Pozo highlighted their value as "an essential source of information for documenting the events of the past, as well as for tracing the various currents of public opinion". Once indexed and catalogued, the copies will be digitised in order to make them universally accessible and guarantee their preservation Accompanied by the deputy for culture and sport, Macarena O'Neill, the secretary general for historical and documentary heritage, Mar Sanchez Estrella, as well as the managing director of SUR and Ideal, Antonio Gonzalez Garcia and the editorial directors of both newspapers, Manuel Castillo and Quico Chirino respectively, Del Pozo highlighted the importance of this donation for "the safeguarding of Andalusian newspaper heritage" and to "guarantee its accessibility for consultation and study by researchers and other interested members of the public". In addition to the copies corresponding to SUR (from 1937 to 2018) and Ideal (1932-2023), the donation has included eleven other local press collections: La Tarde (1960-1966 and 1969-1976); Granada 2000 (1988-1990), El Espanol (1943-1946), La Gaceta de Malaga (1988-1990), El Sol (1989) and Boinas Rojas (1937-1940), as well as the local editions of Ideal in Malaga (1937-1980), Jaen (1939-2023), Almeria (1977-2023), El Ejido (2007-2013) and the Costa Tropical (1995- 2021). "The diverse and heterogeneous origin of these newspapers makes this donation, generously made by the companies Corporacion de Medios de Andalucia and Prensa Malaguena, a representative collection of the different political sensibilities, journalistic styles and local realities of Andalucia in the 19th and 20th centuries," said Del Pozo. The collections donated to the library by both publishing companies are bound and chronologically ordered, which will facilitate both their conservation and their consultation in the library by users. Paper and digitised press Once indexed and catalogued, the regional government plans to digitise these newspaper collections in order to make them accessible to everyone and guarantee their optimal preservation. At present, the library has a total of 459 collections of Andalusian press headers digitised and available at the click of a button, including El Defensor de Granada, published between the end of the 19th century and the first three decades of the 20th century; El Guadalete, printed in Jerez de la Frontera between 1852 and 1936, as well as several daily and weekly publications that emerged in the heat of the political and intellectual upheaval of the Cortes de Cadiz and the 1812 Constitution. The donation by SUR and Ideal adds to the total of 958 collections of Andalusian magazines and press held by the library. These collections make the library a cultural space that can be consulted for the study of Andalucia's past as well as a reference centre for the region's newspaper and periodicals heritage. Library functions The Biblioteca de Andalucia, which was set up in 1988, focuses on providing access to, conserving and protecting documentary, periodical and bibliographic materials related to the region, as well as providing information services of interest. Among its functions assigned by law is that of acting as a centre of preference for the resettlement of collections from other institutions, as well as being a depository centre for Andalusian newspaper and periodicals heritage and works on Andalucia. Although this service is guaranteed by the compulsory legal deposit (in force since 1958), many collections prior to this date are incomplete or non-existent, which is why donations such as the one made by Corporacion de Medios de Andalucia and Prensa Malaguena make it possible to fill important historical gaps and significantly enrich the documentary collections of the region. Javier Almellones Malaga Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 16:49 Share Casares in Spain's Malaga province offers access to both the sea and the mountains, with ancient fortresses and sulphurous spa adventures. It is impossible to get bored on a summer getaway to Casares because there are so many options. The so-called 'hanging village', where Blas Infante - 'the father of Andalucia' - was born, is a paradise for the five senses. Zoom Canuto de la Utrera is reminiscent of the Torcal de Antequera, with its eroded rocks and lush vegetation, but in this case it should be added that what you are visiting is a narrow pass, which makes the route even more thrilling. It is only open for visits between July and November, as during the rest of the year the nesting of birds such as the griffon vulture takes place. You might even be able to take a look at this species. Early morning walks are recommended. Zoom Visiting the Banos de la Hedionda can be a complementary plan to the previous one, as the end of the Canuto de la Utrera connects with the Camino de los Banos. However, you might prefer to completely relax in this enclave. By booking in advance (a condition between June and September), you can access these sulphurous pools from the coast of Manilva. Sulphurous water has many benefits for various skin issues, which is why it is important to preserve this natural site, the history of which is even linked to Julius Caesar. Zoom Casares is one of the villages in Malaga province with access to both the interior and the coast, although the latter is only two kilometres long in the municipality. However, this has an advantage - due to Casares being less popular than nearby municipalities, it offers quiet and more secluded beach days. The beach at Torre de la Sal - a spectacular tower - has a special charm. From it, you can access the Malaga coastal path (Senda Litoral). Zoom The sea, Banos de la Utrera - what other bathing options does Casares offer? Well, although not natural, the artificial lake has become very popular in recent years. It covers 14,000 square metres and is located at the border between the beach and the mountain. It is accessible by prior reservation and visitors have various leisure options: from eating in the restaurant to pedal boats, paddle surfing or simply sunbathing. The steep streets of the 'hanging village' of Casares are a must for tourists. Zoom There is a particularly interesting route between the birthplace of Blas Infante and the castle, where the original church of La Encarnacion awaits, now restored as a cultural centre. You will see charming corners, monuments and spectacular views when you reach the fortress, over which griffon vultures are constantly flying. Angelita Fernandez runs Villa 42 from her own house, where this unique dining room carved into the mountain rock is located. Zoom It is a discreet restaurant, open only when there is prior reservation. The menu presents local and provincial dishes, such as Casares black pudding, hot gazpacho or goat meat. Zoom A hike through the rugged Sierra de Crestellina mountain range is a more suitable plan for after the summer. However, at its foot is the homonymous cheese factory, where the Ocana family offers visitors the chance to buy their artisan and organic dairy products made from the high-quality raw material provided by the payoya goats. You can buy fresh, semi-cured and cured cheeses and yoghurts with different combinations of nuts, jams and even carob syrup. The end of the current dual carriageway in the Casapalma area, where the section now being put out to tender will start. Antonio M. Romero Malaga Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 14:58 | Updated 15:19h. Share One of the most demanded projects in Malaga province - the extension of the A-357 Guadalhorce valley motorway - is finally moving forward again, thanks to the Andalusian regional government. The Junta is set to approve the tender for a section of the road, for which an investment of 57 million euros will be allocated. This action is key for improving the communication between inland parts of the province and Malaga city, especially between the towns in the Guadalhorce, Guadalteba and Ronda areas. The 4.2-kilometre section in question is located between Casapalma (Cartama municipality) and Cerralba (Pizarra). The former is where the motorway currently ends, before reaching the bridge over the Rio Grande river. It will be a bypass and for the most part will run parallel to the route of the existing road, which will be maintained as a service and access road to nearby properties. It will only deviate from the original route to cross the Rio Grande river, where a 250-metre viaduct will be built. It will connect with the current road in the Cerralba area via a roundabout. A junction will be left in place for the next planned section of the dual carriageway between Cerralba and the Zalea junction, which is currently in the study drafting phase. For the most part it will run parallel to the existing road and a 250-metre viaduct will be built over the Rio Grande river A project abandoned since 2007 This project has been abandoned since 2007, when the section between Cartama and Casapalma was inaugurated. In 2004, the section between the Parque Tecnologico de Andalucia and Cartama was opened, while the first dual carriageway between Malaga city and the PTA was opened in 1993. The work subjected to the current tender was initially awarded in 2010, during the previous regional administration, but it never started. A compensation fee of nearly half a million euros had to be paid. Zoom Photo of one of the sections to be expanded and become a dual carriageway. Nito Salas This extension is one of the actions planned for the future dual carriageway connection between Malaga and Ronda. The inland town has been demanding this project for years, but the necessity for it has become more pronounced in recent months, when the closure of the A-397 San Pedro road highlighted the lack of alternative routes in the province. Julio J. Portabales Valle de Abdalajis Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 10:34 Share A landslide of rubble inside the high-speed railway tunnel in Valle de Abdalajis, between Alora and Gobantes, forced a railway traffic diversion on Tuesday, 22 July, causing delays on the Malaga-Cordoba line. State rail infrastructure company Adif said that the incident was caused by hydraulic pressure of the aquifer located close to the rail tracks. However, sources assured that the structure of the tunnel has not been affected and safety has not been compromised. In order to reorganise traffic, trains had been diverted to the alternative track, at least until the main one can be made operational again - a reopening for which no date has been announced yet. This diversion, however, has caused delays of about ten minutes per train. Three companies operate on that line - Renfe, Iryo and Ouigo - which makes assessing the number of trains affected difficult. Fear of future serious incidents This incident contributes to the already existing tension between the central government (headed by left-wing party PSOE) and local councillors from the right-wing PP party. Valle Abdalajis mayor Virginia Romero expressed her frustration with the lack of official information from the Ministry of Transport. "The only thing we know is that there has been a landslide in the tunnel, but nobody has communicated anything officially. It worries me greatly that this will add to the problems the municipality is already facing," she said, alluding to the water supply issues. General secretary of the PP in Malaga Jose Ramon Carmona urged minister of transport Oscar Puente to provide more information about the incident. In addition, he called for more attention to that particular train line, which has suffered more than one incident. Ramon Carmona warned that possible water leaks in this crucial tunnel, potentially caused by the underground aquifer it runs over, could aggravate the already delicate situation in the municipality. Jose Antonio Sau Malaga Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 16:22 Share Romeo Martin Fernandez - the two-and-a-half-year-old boy with Down's syndrome from Malaga, whose story SUR reported on 27 May - underwent a successful operation at Hospital La Paz in Madrid on 11 July. He suffered from a serious liver disease, which put his life at risk. His father Juani, 39, first shared Romeo's story through TikTok back in April. After months of concerns and worries, the boy has finally been discharged thanks to a successful intervention and the support of many people. "He is a superhero," said 38-year-old Tamara - Romeo's mother. In our first article, we traced Romeo's health record. Despite his young age, the boy has been through a hospital ordeal since his birth. He underwent an open-heart surgery when he was barely six months old. He then suffered bronchiolitis, for which he was admitted to Hospital Materno in Malaga for 21 days. During this time, "his liver became inflamed and his lungs became waterlogged". As a result of all this, the little boy developed portal cavernomatosis - a pathology of the portal vein, which carries blood to the liver. This vessel was obstructed and, as a result, a tortuous network of tiny blood vessels was formed. "The blood was not circulating to the liver as it should," his father told SUR back in May. "As the blood does not circulate well to the liver, it looks for other ways to get out," said Teresa. Romeo developed oesophageal varices. Doctors told his parents that he required an urgent surgery, because he could suffer internal haemorrhaging. On Friday, 11 July, the child was admitted to Hospital de La Paz in Madrid, after continuous efforts from Malaga city's Hospital Materno, who had been taking care of the family since the beginning. Zoom Another photo of the little boy with his family. Nito Salas During the three-hour surgery, a Rex shunt was performed on Romeo, which allows the obstructed vein to be bypassed. "On Friday, 18 July, we were discharged, after daily blood tests and ultrasound scans to ensure that the blood flow to the organ was correct," said Juani. Romeo is now on antibiotics and heparin. "This is a weight off our shoulders. We are very grateful to paediatric surgeon Francisco Hernandez Oliveros and his team. Romeo is now doing great, as if nothing happened to him," said Juani Martin. Although Hospital de la Paz is a national reference in this type of surgeries, Romeo's case was more complex, given the rarity of his pathology, which has only been documented three times in the world so far. The family expressed their gratitude to everybody who has been, in one way or another, involved with Romeo's case, as many people have been following the little boy's path and asking the parents how he is. Thanks to the surgery, there has been no talk of a liver transplant. "It's incredible how he overcomes everything," said Juani, proud of how his son has made it through this difficult time in his life. Juan Cano Malaga Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 09:49 | Updated 10:11h. Share Two beachgoers were arrested by the Local Police on Saturday, 19 July, for an alleged attack on law authorities and obstruction of justice. The incident, which happened on the popular Faro beach in Marbella, was sparked by circumstances unrelated to the two people detained, who apparently questioned the officers' allegedly aggressive behaviour towards street vendors in the area. It happened around 4pm, when the police were carrying out what appeared to be a routine inspection against the sale of counterfeit goods. According to witnesses, one of them insulted the police upon seeing how the officers were treating the street vendors, repeatedly calling an officer a "son of a bitch." One of the officers allegedly "lost his temper" and attacked the beachgoer. A video, which has since gone viral, shows how one of the police officers hit out at the detainee. Another person tried to intervene, but both ended up being arrested. The accounts of other eyewitnesses, those arrested and the police differ. Sources consulted said that one of the detainees had thrown a bottle at the police, but he categorically denied it. The viral video is currently being reviewed by the authorities. Marbella town hall has refused to comment on the incident. However, the local government team said that operations against street vending routinely increase in the summer. About two weeks ago, another video went viral. It showed a street vendor punching a police officer in the face in an attempt to prevent his merchandise from being taken away. Tony Bryant Mijas Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 09:05 Share In light of recent changes in European Union support, Soroptimist International Costa del Sol has ramped up its support for needy families in the Mijas area through more contributions to the local food banks. Having supported Mijas food banks for more than a decade, particularly during the holiday season, Sorpotimist is expanding its reach this summer to address more urgent and ongoing needs. The organisation has recently donated basic food supplies valued at 2,000 euros, which included essential items such as milk, oil and canned and dried food, among other things. The supplies will be distributed by the Mijas food bank maintained by the local branch of the Red Cross, and the Asociacion Nueva Cultura del Desarrollo Tzoani (NCD), which is located in Las Lagunas. The organisation said that it recognises the growing responsibility shared by businesses and community groups to stand together in support of vulnerable families, particularly those with children. When you are worried about how to provide food for your family you cant put your energy into getting your life back on track. This donation is not just about providing food; its about sending a message of solidarity and hope to every family in our community, said president Daphne Theunissen. Soroptimist International Costa del Sol is part of a global NGO of over 65.000 women in 122 countries, committed to empowering, educating and helping women and children across the world. JERUSALEM, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Wednesday that an investigation into the recent strike on a church in Gaza was the result of an "unintentional deviation of munitions." In the strike on the Holy Family Church in Gaza City on July 17, three people were killed and at least ten were injured. According to the IDF, the church was accidentally hit during operational activity in Gaza City, with adjustments subsequently made to improve the accuracy of fire. Following the incident, the IDF said it has further clarified its rules for opening fire near religious sites, shelters, and other sensitive locations. The IDF emphasized that it has facilitated the entry of humanitarian aid to the Gaza church and coordinated the entry of a Christian delegation to visit the church in Gaza. In a separate statement, the IDF said its Air Force struck approximately 120 targets throughout the Gaza Strip over the past day. These included militant cells, military structures, tunnels, booby-trapped structures, and additional militant infrastructure sites. It added its troop, identified and eliminated Hamas militants during operations in the area of Jabalia. C.P.S. Madrid Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 15:32 Share The founder and largest shareholder of Inditex (owner of brands such as Zara, Pull&Bear and Massimo Dutti, among others) - Amancio Ortega - is accelerating the activity of his investment company Pontegadea. The firm has just closed the purchase of 49% of the British port and logistics group PD Ports from the Canadian fund Brookfield Asset Management, in a transaction that has yet to receive regulatory approvals and for which the amount has not been disclosed. "We look forward to working with our new shareholder to drive the continued growth of our business," said Brookfield Asset Management. PD Ports contributes 1.4 billion pounds annually to the economy of the Teesside area of England, with 22,000 jobs in the supply chain and direct employment for more than 1,400 people at 11 sites in the UK. Inditex was a surprise player in a deal that had been on the table for months, especially since the second largest port group in the country - Peel Ports - dropped out. However, Ortega's offer for 100% of the capital was rejected by Brookfield, hence the 49% share. Movements Pontegadea's investment activity has been hectic in recent weeks, with negotiations to also acquire the Sabadell Financial Center, where Banco Sabadell's Miami offices are located, from KKR and Parkway for 275 million dollars. Specifically, Pontegadea is in negotiations to acquire this 30-storey office tower, which is located at 1111 Brickell Avenue. If the deal is completed, this purchase would become the largest office sale so far this year in South Florida. The founder of Inditex also recently acquired a hotel in Paris for 97 million euros from the Spanish chain Derby Hoteles. The hotel is located in a historic building in the centre of the French capital. It was acquired by Derby Hotels in 2007 for 75 million euros. He also recently closed the purchase of an office building in Barcelona - Grupo Planeta's headquarters - from Blackstone for 284 million dollars, which would make it Ortega's biggest acquisition in Spain since Torre Foster in 2016 for 490 million dollars. Melchor Saiz-Pardo Madrid Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 13:20 | Updated 15:35h. Share The National Police in Spain have arrested Alvaro Pasquin Mora - a criminal, also known as the "tattoo fugitive", who was convicted of sexual abuse eight years ago. Pasquin was included in the force's 'ten most wanted' campaign and his detention happened only ten days before the statute of limitations on his crime was set to expire. According to the police, Pasquin spent the last five years hiding in a shed in Madrid's Colonia Jardin area. He had "changed his physical appearance", letting his hair grow and dyeing it blonde. He used a fake identity to order food. His arrest was ordered in 2020, three years after he had committed a sex crime. The aim of the 'Ten most wanted' campaign is to release names and faces to the public, who can potentially provide more information to the losmasbuscados@policia.es email address. It was exactly this approach that helped the police locate Pasquin, who, according to the authorities, was planning to leave the shed on 1 August, when the charges against him would have ceased to have effect. Zoom CNP In July 2024, the National Police launched a new campaign to locate ten fugitives wanted by different national and international courts. Since then, six of them have been arrested, leaving four still to be located. ABC Madrid Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 11:44 Share Mayor of the Catalan town of Ripoll - Silvia Orriols - has signed a decree to ban the use of the burkini in the municipal swimming pool. Burkini is a type of swimwear designed for Muslim women. In a statement on her profile on X (formerly Twitter), Orriols cited "safety reasons" behind her decision. In addition, she advised other municipalities in the region to follow her example. "This is already going too far," she said. "Let's govern Ripoll, let's save Catalonia." He signat un Ban prohibint l'us de burquinis a la piscina municipal de Ripoll per raons de seguretat. Recomano a la resta d'ajuntaments catalans que facin el mateix. Aixo ja passa de mida...#GovernemRipoll#SalvemCatalunya Silvia Orriols (@orriolsderipoll) July 21, 2025 In 2023, the Catalan regional government sent a letter to local councils, reminding them that women wearing burkini or going topless cannot be denied access to public swimming pools, as doing so would be a "discrimination". The letter stated that the clothing used for the swimming pool must be "appropriate for the activity" and the genitals must be covered "to guarantee hygiene and public health". A man checks Chinese-made solar-powered equipment installed at his house in Schwarzenbek, Germany, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei) BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua)-- The upcoming China-EU Summit presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the experience and insights gained from 50 years of bilateral ties. It offers a platform to build consensus and chart a stable and healthy path forward that benefits both sides and the world. The summit comes at a time when geopolitical tensions, protectionism and unilateralism are increasingly fragmenting global relations. Furthermore, China-EU relations are at a critical juncture, presenting opportunities for deepening pragmatic cooperation while also highlighting the need for strengthened strategic communication to address global challenges and effectively manage differences. In this context, there is hope that the meeting will convey clear and positive messages to advance win-win cooperation based on mutual respect and openness. The summit aims to chart a course for the next 50 years of bilateral relations, safeguard free trade and multilateralism, and provide certainty and positive energy in a world facing mounting challenges. The past half century has witnessed remarkable developments of China-EU cooperation. The bilateral trade volume of goods increased from 2.4 billion U.S. dollars in 1975 to 785.8 billion dollars in 2024. Two-way investment stock has grown from nearly zero to 260 billion dollars. China and the EU are each other's second-largest trading partners, with economic complementarity being a key feature of their cooperation. China-EU cooperation serves as a prime example of mutually beneficial cooperation in the era of economic globalization, despite differences in history, culture, social systems and development stages. Guests attending the delivery ceremony of the 700th A320 family aircraft assembled by Airbus Tianjin to Chengdu Airlines pose for a group photo in front of the A320neo aircraft in Tianjin, north China, July 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Airbus illustrates this partnership well. Since entering the Chinese mainland market 40 years ago, the European aircraft manufacturer has seen its market share in China grow to more than 50 percent. In 2003, China and the EU established a comprehensive strategic partnership. They have established over 70 consultation and dialogue mechanisms that cover various fields such as politics, economy and trade, humanities, science and technology, energy, and the environment. Additionally, the two sides have increased cooperation in the areas of digital and green transition. Some valuable experience for comprehensive development includes the commitments to mutual respect, mutually beneficial cooperation, and free trade. These principles are the cornerstones of future China-EU ties, which is among the most influential relations worldwide. Fruitful China-EU cooperation has contributed to the development and progress of both sides, delivering tangible benefits for nearly two billion people in China and the EU, and greatly promoted world peace and development. However, in recent years, the bilateral relationship has faced difficulties and challenges, due to various frictions and differences on issues like trade. This has been particularly evident since the EU adopted a "partner-competitor-systemic rival" framework for characterizing bilateral relations in 2019. Some describe the EU's positioning of China as akin to having all traffic lights (green, yellow and red) on at the same time. This approach not only fails to direct traffic, but will inevitably cause disruption. Chinese culture holds that complaining about others will not lead to self-improvement. Given the scale of bilateral trade and the growing competitiveness of some of China's industries, it is natural for some differences and frictions to arise. Solutions lie in dialogue and consultation. Tourists from Austria have drinks at a bar in Tianzifang art area in Shanghai, east China, July 21, 2025. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua) The EU side has expressed concerns about its trade deficit with China. Yet, a thorough examination of the trade imbalance reveals that the situation is more complex than the deficit figure suggests. Three facts offer different perspectives. Firstly, the EU has long enjoyed a surplus in services trade with China. Secondly, it restricts the export of high-tech products to China. Thirdly, over one-third of exports from EU companies in China are sold to Europe, which means European companies get many of the benefits of the trade surplus. There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and the EU, but rather extensive common interests. Greater benefits will only come from partnership rather than rivalry. Bilateral cooperation was not -- and will never be -- a zero-sum game. To truly understand China-EU relations, it is important to hold a long-term, strategic and comprehensive perspective. The world is currently experiencing significant turbulence and change. As China and the EU prepare for the next 50 years of cooperation, it is particularly important to reflect on and adhere to the original aspirations that guided the establishment of bilateral relations. This includes promoting values such as mutual benefit, solving problems through consultations, and opposing hegemony. By learning from the past, the 25th China-EU Summit on Thursday should rise above differences and pool consensus to open up a new chapter of bilateral relations. A man checks Chinese-made solar-powered equipment installed at his house in Schwarzenbek, Germany, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei) BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua)-- The upcoming China-EU Summit presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the experience and insights gained from 50 years of bilateral ties. It offers a platform to build consensus and chart a stable and healthy path forward that benefits both sides and the world. The summit comes at a time when geopolitical tensions, protectionism and unilateralism are increasingly fragmenting global relations. Furthermore, China-EU relations are at a critical juncture, presenting opportunities for deepening pragmatic cooperation while also highlighting the need for strengthened strategic communication to address global challenges and effectively manage differences. In this context, there is hope that the meeting will convey clear and positive messages to advance win-win cooperation based on mutual respect and openness. The summit aims to chart a course for the next 50 years of bilateral relations, safeguard free trade and multilateralism, and provide certainty and positive energy in a world facing mounting challenges. The past half century has witnessed remarkable developments of China-EU cooperation. The bilateral trade volume of goods increased from 2.4 billion U.S. dollars in 1975 to 785.8 billion dollars in 2024. Two-way investment stock has grown from nearly zero to 260 billion dollars. China and the EU are each other's second-largest trading partners, with economic complementarity being a key feature of their cooperation. China-EU cooperation serves as a prime example of mutually beneficial cooperation in the era of economic globalization, despite differences in history, culture, social systems and development stages. Guests attending the delivery ceremony of the 700th A320 family aircraft assembled by Airbus Tianjin to Chengdu Airlines pose for a group photo in front of the A320neo aircraft in Tianjin, north China, July 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Airbus illustrates this partnership well. Since entering the Chinese mainland market 40 years ago, the European aircraft manufacturer has seen its market share in China grow to more than 50 percent. In 2003, China and the EU established a comprehensive strategic partnership. They have established over 70 consultation and dialogue mechanisms that cover various fields such as politics, economy and trade, humanities, science and technology, energy, and the environment. Additionally, the two sides have increased cooperation in the areas of digital and green transition. Some valuable experience for comprehensive development includes the commitments to mutual respect, mutually beneficial cooperation, and free trade. These principles are the cornerstones of future China-EU ties, which is among the most influential relations worldwide. Fruitful China-EU cooperation has contributed to the development and progress of both sides, delivering tangible benefits for nearly two billion people in China and the EU, and greatly promoted world peace and development. However, in recent years, the bilateral relationship has faced difficulties and challenges, due to various frictions and differences on issues like trade. This has been particularly evident since the EU adopted a "partner-competitor-systemic rival" framework for characterizing bilateral relations in 2019. Some describe the EU's positioning of China as akin to having all traffic lights (green, yellow and red) on at the same time. This approach not only fails to direct traffic, but will inevitably cause disruption. Chinese culture holds that complaining about others will not lead to self-improvement. Given the scale of bilateral trade and the growing competitiveness of some of China's industries, it is natural for some differences and frictions to arise. Solutions lie in dialogue and consultation. Tourists from Austria have drinks at a bar in Tianzifang art area in Shanghai, east China, July 21, 2025. (Photo by Zhang Yue/Xinhua) The EU side has expressed concerns about its trade deficit with China. Yet, a thorough examination of the trade imbalance reveals that the situation is more complex than the deficit figure suggests. Three facts offer different perspectives. Firstly, the EU has long enjoyed a surplus in services trade with China. Secondly, it restricts the export of high-tech products to China. Thirdly, over one-third of exports from EU companies in China are sold to Europe, which means European companies get many of the benefits of the trade surplus. There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and the EU, but rather extensive common interests. Greater benefits will only come from partnership rather than rivalry. Bilateral cooperation was not -- and will never be -- a zero-sum game. To truly understand China-EU relations, it is important to hold a long-term, strategic and comprehensive perspective. The world is currently experiencing significant turbulence and change. As China and the EU prepare for the next 50 years of cooperation, it is particularly important to reflect on and adhere to the original aspirations that guided the establishment of bilateral relations. This includes promoting values such as mutual benefit, solving problems through consultations, and opposing hegemony. By learning from the past, the 25th China-EU Summit on Thursday should rise above differences and pool consensus to open up a new chapter of bilateral relations. Syracuse, N.Y. A woman was taken to a hospital Tuesday after she was found unconscious in a fire at the Grant Village Apartments in Syracuse. Firefighters found the woman on the floor near the fire in her living room, said Syracuse Deputy Fire Chief Nick Pagano. Firefighters pulled her from the apartment and began treating her for smoke inhalation, Pagano said. She was conscious and breathing when EMTs took her by ambulance to Upstate University Hospital for further evaluation, he said. No one else was injured. Multiple people called 911 around 4:55 p.m. to report smoke coming from the back of an apartment at 210 Village Drive, which is part of the Grant Village complex, Pagano said. The fire was contained to the living room and was put out in about five minutes, he said. Heavy smoke damaged the rest of the womans apartment, but no other apartments were affected. Police had Village Drive closed from Lea Lane and Linwill Terrace. There were more than five fire trucks on scene as well as two ambulances and a National Grid truck. The cause of the fire is under investigation, Pagano said. A woman was taken to the hospital Tuesday, July 22, 2025 after she was found unconscious during a fire at the Grant Village Apartments in Syracuse. Greta Stuckey Staff writer Greta Stuckey covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at gstuckey@syracuse.com. A classic holiday film may soon be getting an official LEGO set thanks to a Central New York family. Jason Middaugh, of Marcellus, N.Y., and his daughter Jane designed a proposed LEGO product based on the Griswold house from National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. Their creation received 10,000 fan votes on LEGOs official Product Ideas website, prompting the toy brick company to review it for consideration as an official product. The set features a replica of the house from the 1981 movie, complete with Christmas lights, Cousin Eddies RV, and holiday decorations like Santa with reindeer in the front yard. Theres even a LEGO moose mug, a squirrel (!) and minifigures of the Griswold family including Clark, Ellen, Rusty, and Audrey. It could be the gift that keeps on giving the whole year, as Cousin Eddie would say. The Middaugh family from Marcellus, N.Y., created a LEGO replica of the Griswold house from the 1989 movie "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation." LEGO says it is considering turning it into an official set. (Provided photo) Provided Middaugh says his family created the model several years ago, but LEGO Ideas was not accepting proposals for Christmas Vacation at the time. We are so happy to discover that this was reconsidered as we would love for everyone to have the opportunity to own this ubiquitous holiday movie in LEGO form and to be able to enjoy it as much as we have during the holidays and all year round! he wrote. The comedy film, written by John Hughes, starred Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, whose efforts for a perfect family holiday keep turning into disasters. Chase and co-stars Randy Quaid and Brian Doyle-Murray reunited on screen last year for a new film shot in Central New York, The Christmas Letter. The Middaughs previously created LEGO replicas of A Christmas Story and Its a Wonderful Life, but the company did not move forward with official sets partly due to licensing issues. They donated a copy of the latter to the Its A Wonderful Life Museum in nearby Seneca Falls, N.Y., which touts itself as the real Bedford Falls that inspired much of Frank Capras 1946 movie. We have been so humbled and grateful for all of the support that we have received, Jason told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. It has been a little overwhelming, but a great lesson to my daughter (who will be going into her Junior year at Marcellus in the fall). Jason previously said he and Jane they start with a tester, using LEGO bricks at home for an initial proof of concept. If it works, they use LEGO software and the website bricklink.com, where people sell individual LEGO pieces from their own collections, to get all the necessary pieces to fully realize their vision. If LEGO approves the Christmas Vacation design, Middaugh will be invited to collaborate with official LEGO designers to finalize the set and make it an official product available in stores. For now, fans can see it on display at the local LEGO hobby store Bricks Crossing in Liverpool. See more photos of the National Lampoons Christmas Vacation design at beta.ideas.lego.com. President Donald Trumps border czar is promising an influx of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in sanctuary cities across the U.S. Im going to work very hard to keep President Trumps promise and his commitment several weeks ago that sanctuary cities are now our priority, Tom Homan, Trumps border czar, said, during a news conference, according to The Guardian. Were going to flood the zone. If we cant arrest that bad guy in the safety and security of the county jail, well arrest him in the community. And when we arrest him in the community, if hes with others that are in the country illegally, they are coming too. Homan also said every sanctuary city is unsafe and called them sanctuaries for criminals. He said Trump wont tolerate the situation. The end result, Homan said, according to The Guardian, will be exactly what sanctuary cities dont want: More agents in their communities. Theres no precise legal definition of what constitutes a sanctuary city. It often refers to a jurisdiction that limits cooperation with federal immigration authorities somehow. Some local leaders in areas across the nation have declared their municipalities sanctuaries in recent years. That includes former Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner. She declared Syracuse a sanctuary city in 2017. Her successor, Mayor Ben Walsh, hasnt made any changes to the citys policies when it comes to immigration enforcement. City police dont arrest people based on immigration status and they never have. But Walsh has also downplayed the use of the term sanctuary city and instead referred to Syracuse as a welcoming place. Syracuse has been and always will be a welcoming city and proud refugee and immigrant resettlement community, he said in a January statement. The Syracuse Police Department does not enforce federal immigration law, but we do support federal efforts to remove violent criminals from our streets. Also in January, Onondaga County Sheriff Toby Shelley said his office would not comply with ICE requests to detain undocumented immigrants. He said the policy had been in effect since he became sheriff in 2023, and complies with the Fourth Amendments protection against unreasonable search and seizure. Syracuse was included on a Trump administration list of sanctuary jurisdictions released in May. The administration said the jurisdictions on the list were deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws and endangering American citizens. NEW YORK (AP) Columbia University announced disciplinary action Tuesday against students who participated in a pro-Palestinian demonstration inside the Ivy League schools main library before final exams in May and an encampment during alumni weekend last year. A student activist group said nearly 80 students were told they have been suspended for one to three years or expelled. The sanctions issued by a university judicial board also include probation and degree revocations, Columbia said in a statement. The action comes as the New York college negotiates with President Donald Trumps administration to restore $400 million in federal funding it has withheld from the Ivy League school over its handling of student protests against the war in Gaza. The administration pulled the funding, canceling grants and contracts, in March because of what it described as the universitys failure to squelch antisemitism on campus during the Israel-Hamas war that began in October 2023. Columbia has since agreed to a series of demands laid out by the Republican administration, including overhauling the universitys student disciplinary process and adopting a new definition of antisemitism. Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community, the university said Tuesday. And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences. It did not disclose the names of the students who were disciplined. FILE - Students sit on the front steps of Low Memorial Library on the Columbia University campus in New York City, Feb. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File) AP Columbia in May said it would lay off nearly 180 staffers and scale back research in response to the loss of funding. Those receiving nonrenewal or termination notices represent about 20% of the employees funded in some manner by the terminated federal grants, the university said. A student activist group said the newly announced disciplinary action exceeds sentencing precedent for prior protests. Suspended students would be required to submit apologies in order to be allowed back on campus or face expulsion, the group said, something some students will refuse to do. We will not be deterred. We are committed to the struggle for Palestinian liberation, Columbia University Apartheid Divest said in a statement. Columbia was at the forefront of U.S. campus protests over the war in spring 2024. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators set up an encampment and seized a campus building in April, leading to dozens of arrests and inspiring a wave of similar protests nationally. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has cut funding to several top U.S. universities he viewed as too tolerant of antisemitism. The administration has also cracked down on individual student protesters. Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a legal U.S. resident with no criminal record, was detained in March over his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. He is now suing the Trump administration, alleging he was falsely imprisoned, maliciously prosecuted and smeared as an antisemite. HOHHOT, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Six university students drowned on Wednesday after falling into a flotation cell during a study visit at a copper-molybdenum ore-dressing plant in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, local emergency authorities have said. The accident occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m. Wednesday at the plant, which is operated by a mining company under China National Gold Group Co., Ltd. in Hulunbuir, according to the municipal emergency management bureau. The students, all of whom attended Northeastern University, were observing flotation processes when a grid plate collapsed, causing them to plunge into the flotation cell. All six were rescued from the cell but later pronounced dead by medical personnel. A teacher was also injured in the incident. Post-incident handling is underway. Alex Brizee and Kevin Fixler l The Idaho Statesman (TNS) BOISE, Idaho Bryan Kohberger will spend the rest of his life in prison. Judge Steven Hippler, of Idahos 4th Judicial District, sentenced the man who fatally stabbed four University of Idaho students to the maximum possible penalty four consecutive life sentences on four counts of first-degree murder. He will have no chance of parole or ability to appeal. This unfathomable and senseless act of evil has caused immeasurable pain and loss, Hippler read in prepared remarks through emotions. No parent should ever have to bury their child. This is the greatest tragedy that can be inflicted on a person. The victims were University of Idaho seniors Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, both 21, junior Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. Kohberger, now 30, attacked the four college students at an off-campus home in Moscow in November 2022. Wednesdays hearing marks the closure of a more than 2 1/2 years of a criminal case that shocked the college town of fewer than 30,000 people, which hadnt seen a homicide since 2015. The four students Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were found stabbed to death in a home off King Road that the three women lived in with two other female roommates, who went unharmed during the attack. Chapin was Kernoodles boyfriend and spent the night. Kohberger, wearing a white T-shirt beneath an orange jail jumpsuit and shackles, sat nearly motionless throughout the hearing, seated with his public defense team. I am unable to come up with anything redeeming about Mr. Kohberger, Hippler said. His actions have made him the worst of the worse. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. DAR ES SALAAM, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Tanzanian government has signed an agreement worth 4.5 billion shillings (about 1.7 million U.S. dollars) to construct a new clean energy factory in the Geita Region. The deal, inked Tuesday between the Rural Energy Agency (REA) and the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO), will establish a plant producing briquettes, a charcoal substitute made from renewable biomass, to boost access to alternative cooking fuels and reduce environmental degradation. Under the agreement, the REA will contribute 3 billion shillings toward machinery procurement, while STAMICO will allocate 1.5 billion shillings for land, factory construction, and equipment installation. The signing ceremony took place at REA's Dar es Salaam office, attended by REA Director General Hassan Saidy and STAMICO Managing Director Venance Mwasse. Saidy affirmed the agency's goal to achieve 80 percent nationwide access to clean cooking energy by 2034, emphasizing the plant's role in reducing reliance on unsafe and polluting fuels. "This project reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan's directive to scale up clean energy partnerships and support rural communities," he added. A Florida man is behind bars after firing off a series of violent online threats directed at supposed clients of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Terrell Bailey-Corsey, 31, was arrested after federal authorities linked him to a string of violent threats posted on X, formerly Twitter, between late June and mid-July. "You can't fear death, so you can't understand," he allegedly told Grok, the platform's free AI chatbot, on July 15. "I will KILL EVERYONE ON THE LIST. ON SIGHT. AND THEY ABSOLUTELY DESERVE IT," Bailey-Corsey wrote, according to a criminal complaint. The message specified that he'd use a machete, "so everyone can see the blood and gore of the moment." An hour later, Bailey-Corsey allegedly targeted three government officials with personalized death threats, writing, "My life means nothing. If I could see you dead. It would be worth it all. Fear God." Names of officials were withheld from the FBI report. The complaint details a pattern of violent rhetoric on Bailey-Corsey's account, including a post that read, "I don't know what the solution is, but someone's gonna have to clean up a lot of blood when it's all over," a call to "KILL THEM, KILL THEM ALL IF THEY HAVE A NAME IN POLITICS," and another that said, "America First of I want you to f---ing die." 1 of 2 The threats emerged in the wake of renewed anger online over the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein investigation. In June, the DOJ confirmed it would not be releasing further evidence tied to the sex trafficking case, reigniting conspiracy theories and speculation surrounding Epstein's 2019 jailhouse death, which investigators previously ruled a suicide. Bailey-Corsey claimed responsibility for the posts, according to court documents. He now faces federal charges related to interstate communication of threats and threatening government officials. Originally published on Latin Times Samsung Galaxy F56 is the subject of a detailed teardown video that provides the tech community with a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into this budget smartphone. Budget phone teardowns are not common, so this video provides great insight into how Samsung designed and engineered the F56. If you've ever wondered what's behind the screen and sleek frame of your phone, this teardown delivers a close-up view of the Galaxy F56's internal components and overall repairability. Step-by-Step Disassembly According to GSM Arena, the disassembly begins at the back with the removal of the glass rear cover. After opening, several screws have to be removed in order to gain access to the internal components of the device. Samsung uses plastic in its frame since it's cheap and light, but don't worry about the port, as the rubber gaskets get the job done. This is useful when it comes to water and dust protection. Taking out the battery requires a bit more work because of the sticky stuff, but it's still an easy one for those used to working on smartphones. Generally speaking, Samsung has made the F56 service-friendly, which should be easier for technicians or tinkerers to service. Galaxy F56 Scores 9/10 for Repairability In terms of repairability, the Galaxy F56 excels. It received 9 out of 10 on the repairability index, a remarkable score, particularly for a mid-range device. Here's why: Good parts availability renders replacements simple to find, according to PBKreviews. First, its battery replacement is simple. Battery replacement is simple, eschewing the complexity found with other phones. That's something hard to find in other phones. It's also important to note that its charging port and other internal parts are readily replaceable. Two categories kept the F56 from achieving a score of 10. These are repair organization and efficiency in time, where it got 1.5 out of 2. This means there's some slight intricacy involved in the process of repair. It also got 1.5 out of 2 in the difficulty of replacing the screen. Despite these slight pitfalls, Samsung has produced a phone that's incredibly accommodating for technicians and environmentally friendly consumers who would rather repair than replace. To know more about other Samsung phones, you can check information about Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE. Google is finally going ahead with its much-hyped plan to consolidate reminders across its platform, and that also means changes in reminders in Google Keep. Although Keep is a favorite note-taking app among Android users because of its simplicity and ease of use, its own reminder system has been isolated until now. The tech giant has announced reminders made on Google Keep will also auto-sync to Google Tasks beginning in the second half of 2025. This is one of a series of efforts to combine all of Google's reminder and to-do systems into a unified, centralized hub: the Google Tasks app. A Quick Look Back on Google Keep Reminders Google's simplification efforts with its productivity tools started way back in 2023, with the announcement to move reminders from Google Calendar and Google Assistant to Google Tasks, according to Android Police. In 2024, the firm expanded that endeavor to Google Keep reminders, vowing to show up in Tasks. That actual rollout never materialized until now. Following a just-released support document update spotted by 9to5Google, Google has once again committed to the merger, clarifying that the Keep-to-Tasks reminder transition will occur in the second half of 2025. Although an exact date has yet to be released, the update is certainly in the pipeline. Google Keep Users Shouldn't Worry If you regularly use Google Keep, you don't have to worry about functionality loss. Google has made it clear that you will continue to be able to create, view, edit, and mark reminders in Keep. The only significant change is that the reminders will now be stored and handled by Google Tasks in the background. Here's how things will break down: Reminders in Keep will automatically sync to Tasks. You can still manage your reminders directly from the Keep app. Tasks becomes the central hub for all Google reminders, including those created via Calendar, Assistant, and now Keep. Why Google Tasks Is Becoming Essential As Google integrates its productivity platform, the Google Tasks app is more important than ever before. If you make extensive use of reminders in various applications, installing and using Google Tasks will become important to managing yourself. It is where you can see all of your tasks and to-dos, regardless of whether they were created in some other applications. While this consolidation enhances consistency, it also heightens expectations that Google will beef up the reliability and functionality of its notetaking and reminder capabilities, particularly Keep, which has had relatively few changes in recent years. What Google did here is impressive when it comes to productivity. Migrating Keep reminders into Tasks is a smart move to keep everything you store in one location. Although the complete deployment may not arrive until late 2025, it will definitely be worth the wait to achieve a more streamlined and comprehensible to-do system. SYDNEY, July 23 (Xinhua) -- One teenager has died and another has suffered serious injuries in a jet ski crash in southern Sydney in Australia's state of New South Wales (NSW). A police statement said on Tuesday that emergency services were called to reports of people in the water in the Georges River in the suburb of Sylvania, 17 km southwest of central Sydney, after a jet ski crashed at approximately 6:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Officers attended the scene and found a 15-year-old boy deceased in the water. A second boy, aged 14, was rescued by an officer and was treated by ambulance paramedics at the scene for a severed arm before being taken to hospital in a serious condition. A crime scene has been established, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident has commenced. DAR ES SALAAM, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Tanzania's Zanzibar have urged stronger measures to protect coral reefs, highlighting their key role in driving Tanzania's blue economy by attracting global tourism. Rashid Ali Salim, deputy permanent secretary in the President's Office for Labor, Economy, and Investment in Zanzibar, made the call on Tuesday during the launch of the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Resilient Coral Reefs. Salim emphasized that the action plan aims to tackle critical issues affecting marine reserves, including illegal fishing, climate change, and environmental degradation. He noted that marine reserves, such as those in Tanga, Mafia, Dar es Salaam, and Mtwara, continue to thrive as major tourist destinations, thanks to practical conservation efforts. Salim cited the arrival of a large cruise ship last year that carried approximately 154 tourists to dock at Mafia Island, which was a direct result of preserving coastal and marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs. He underscored the ecological importance of coral reefs, describing them as vital breeding grounds for fish and essential to marine biodiversity. Salim urged coastal communities, conservation institutions, and development stakeholders across the country to support the action plan in achieving both national and United Nations sustainable development goals. Flooding from storm Wipha cuts off hundreds in Vietnam Hanoi, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Flooding caused by Tropical Storm Wipha left hundreds of families cut off in villages in central Vietnam on Wednesday, authorities said. Around 12,500 people were evacuated from high risk areas over the weekend, before the storm made landfall on Tuesday bringing heavy rains that triggered landslides and flash floods. Authorities in central Nghe An province said the Ban Ve hydropower plant -- the biggest in the area -- had to discharge water from its reservoir. Several communities were hit by water rising to rooftops on Tuesday night, forcing local residents to evacuate to higher ground. "Water levels this year were much higher and more terrible than what we considered a historic flooding in 1988," resident Nguyen Thai Hung told the Dan Tri news site. "We really don't know what to do as the water has reached the top of our houses," Hung said. More than 200 families in Yen Hoa commune were cut off after the main path to the village was damaged by flash floods, authorities said. Wipha killed at least six people on Friday in the Philippines, where tens of thousands were forced from their homes and parts of the capital Manila remained flooded on Tuesday. Experts say human-driven climate change is causing more intense weather patterns that can make destructive floods more likely. A sudden whirlwind and abnormal weather pattern overturned a tourist boat in Vietnam's UNESCO area of Ha Long Bay on Friday, killing 37 people, including several children. And in September 2024, Typhoon Yagi devastated northern Vietnam, leaving 345 people dead and causing an estimated economic loss of $3.3 billion. Greece mulls water-saving moves as heatwave intensifies Athens, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Greece on Wednesday announced plans to "urgently" overhaul its water management as temperatures continued to rise during a week-long heatwave. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said the cabinet had discussed plans to make water companies more "viable", noting that reserves in Athens were down 50 percent compared to three years ago. There will be additional use of desalination technology and water reuse, the premier's office said, adding that Greece globally ranked 19th in terms of drought risk. The National Observatory of Athens recently warned that, following high temperatures and low rainfall in June, almost all of Greece displayed above-normal drought levels for this time of year. Temperatures continued to rise Wednesday in a heatwave expected to last until Sunday. Between 40C and 44C are expected on Wednesday in the eastern, central, and northern inland regions, as well as on the islands of the eastern Aegean Sea, according to the meteo.gr website of the Athens National Observatory. In Athens, the heat reached 36.3C around 1:30 pm (1030 GMT). It is expected to rise to 42C on Thursday according to meteo.gr. To protect visitors and guards, Greek authorities have closed the Acropolis in Athens during the hottest hours of the day, between 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm, until Friday. - 'The asphalt is boiling' - The Greek government has also banned outdoor work in several sectors during the hottest hours to minimise health risks. "It's inhumane to work in such conditions. The asphalt is boiling," Panagiotis Arvanitidis, 35, a member of the food delivery workers' union in the Thessaloniki region (north), told AFP. "The ambient temperature in my home over the past two days has exceeded 30C," said 50-year-old medical saleswoman Anna Spania. "Without air conditioning, survival is impossible!" she added. The heatwave's highest temperatures so far were recorded on Tuesday at Tragana, central Greece, at 44.9C, according to meteo.gr. A Mediterranean country accustomed to intense summer heatwaves, Greece last year experienced its hottest summer on record. Five ways Pacific island nations are tackling climate change Sydney, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 Pacific island nation Vanuatu has triggered a landmark court ruling that has set out the big polluters' responsibilities when it comes to climate change. Hindered by their isolation and lack of economic clout, Pacific island nations have nonetheless emerged as global leaders in the fight to tackle the climate crisis. Here are five ways Pacific islands are addressing the environmental emergency. - Going digital - Few countries are as imperilled by rising tides as Pacific island nation Tuvalu -- two of the archipelago's nine coral atolls have already largely been swallowed by the seas. Tuvalu has started painstakingly building a 3D map of its remaining land, with the goal of becoming the world's first "digital nation". If Tuvalu's islands disappear underwater, officials hope to at least leave a detailed, interactive digital recreation of what once was. - Plan Sea - While Kiribati remains hopeful of staving off the worst impacts of climate change, it has also invested heavily in a back-up plan. Then-Kiribati President Anote Tong in 2013 bought a substantial parcel of land in neighbouring Fiji, setting the estate aside as a future sanctuary for the nation's 100,000 climate-threatened citizens. "We would hope not to put everyone on one piece of land, but if it became absolutely necessary, yes, we could do it," Tong said in 2014. In the meantime, the land has reportedly been turned into a farm. - Digging deep - Swathes of Pacific Ocean seabed are carpeted in potato-sized lumps of rock rich in rare earths and critical minerals such as cobalt, nickel and manganese. Pacific island nations such as Nauru and Cook Islands want to harvest these polymetallic nodules, which can lie five kilometres (three miles) or more beneath the surface. The idea is by no means popular -- other Pacific nations such as Fiji and Palau want to see the fledgling deep-sea mining industry banned. Proponents say it offers a crucial source of ingredients used to make rechargeable batteries and other "green" technologies needed to decarbonise the planet. - Migration pact - Tuvalu inked a groundbreaking pact with Australia in 2024 that gives a limited number of citizens the chance to migrate under special climate visas. About 280 Tuvaluans can each year apply to live in Australia under a deal lauded by Canberra as "the first agreement of its kind anywhere in the world". More than 3,000 Tuvaluans had entered a ballot within four days of applications opening this year -- almost a full third of the nation's population. - Legal landmark - Tired of pleading for countries to act on climate change, Vanuatu has asked the world's highest court if polluting states were legally obliged to do something about it. Activists welcomed the opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which declared states have a legal obligation to fight against climate change. The court's opinion is not binding, but carries significant legal, moral and political weight. ICJ opinions are often taken into account by national courts. CORRECTED: Wildfire kills 11 Turkish forest workers battling blaze: authorities Istanbul, July 23 (AFP) Jul 23, 2025 A wildfire killed on Wednesday 11 forest workers who were battling to douse the flames near Eskisehir in western Turkey, the local authorities said. "We are deeply saddened by the loss of 11 heroic forest workers who died fighting the flames," Nebi Hatipoglu, the constituency's lawmaker, said on X. Xue Shuzheng, a veteran of the war against Japanese aggression, recounts his experience of Sino-American wartime cooperation in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, July 4, 2025.(Photo by Chen Juwei/Xinhua) CHENGDU, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Time's river wipes away much, but nothing can wash away the indelible wartime years of a 101-year-old veteran of the war against Japanese aggression. Each bomb weighed 250 kilograms and stood 2.5 meters tall -- silent giants waiting to be loaded into the bellies of American B-29 bombers destined for Japan. "Back then, we fueled the planes and armed the bombs, all to ensure they fell on the aggressors' heads," Xue Shuzheng murmured, voice trembling yet resolute. Xue was born in 1924 in Yibin, a city in southwest China's Sichuan Province. In 1944, this young mechanic was dispatched to Xinjin airfield, where his fate became intertwined with the B-29 Bomber. The first sight of the B-29 remains etched in his memory: "That aircraft was enormous. When its four engines roared, the ground shook, and the sheer force of the propellers could knock you off your feet." As a sergeant, he led a team of 10 mechanics responsible for refueling and arming two B-29s. Every morning, the bombers roared into the sky. By dusk, many returned scarred with bullet holes and shrapnel wounds. Nights were a frenzy of repairs and reloading under floodlights, with Chinese and American mechanics working side by side. "Some planes never made it back, and others were so badly damaged that they crashed just short of the airfield," Xue said. "It was truly heartbreaking for all of us." Danger also lurked constantly. Once, Japanese planes tailed returning B-29s and strafed the airfield. "Sirens blared. Flares lit up the night. We leapt into trenches by the runway," Xue said. Xinjin airfield was more than just a military base but also a symbol of China's desperate resistance and the unyielding spirit of its people. Nestled in the heart of Sichuan's fertile plains, Xinjin airfield first took shape in 1928. With the outbreak of full-scale resistance war against Japanese aggression, this airfield was designated as a strategically vital aviation base. Major expansion efforts began in 1938 as part of a broader campaign to develop nine critical airfields across the region. By 1941, Xinjin had completed its fourth phase of expansion. In late 1943, to support Operation Matterhorn, a special national defense initiative was launched to build or expand forward operating bases at four places including Xinjin. Operation Matterhorn was a United States Army Air Force military operation in World War II for the strategic bombing of Japanese forces by B-29 bombers based in India and China. Targets included the Japanese homeland and its bases in China. Safely positioned in China's wartime hinterland, with convenient river access for construction materials and an optimal position along the Hump airlift route to strike at the Japanese homeland, made Xinjin an ideal location to operate the mission. Men and women, young and old, over 200,000 workers from Sichuan laid down their farm tools, shouldered bamboo baskets, and marched to Xinjin. "Without machines, we crushed stones by hand, hauled gravel in baskets, and dragged concrete rollers that weighed more than 10 tonnes with hemp ropes to build the runway, inch by inch," said Jiang Youcai, a 98-year-old local resident who joined the airfield's construction. By May 1944, Xinjin boasted a 2,600-meter runway, thick enough to handle the massive B-29s, along with three fuel depots. It became the operational hub for the U.S. Headquarters 20 Bomb Command, Headquarters Squadron 58th Bombardment Wing and Headquarters Squadron 40th Bombardment Group, housing over 50 B-29s. On June 15, 1944, a fleet of B-29s took off from Xinjin, crossed the East China Sea, and bombed Japan's Yawata Steel Works. It is the first air strike on the Japanese homeland from Chinese homeland. By January 1945, they had conducted over ten bombing missions over the Japanese mainland, making significant contributions to defeating Japanese fascism and writing a glorious chapter in the history of Sino-American cooperative resistance against aggression. Without the miracles wrought by Chinese hands, this victory would not have been possible, American General Kenneth Bonner Wolfe said. Today, Xinjin airfield is quieter. What was once a vital base for China-U.S. allied operations during World War II has now become a civilian aviation training institute, with modern aircraft gracefully traversing its runways where B-29 bombers once roared. In 1956, the Civil Aviation Flight University of China (CAFUC) was established in Xinjin. Over the past 70 years since its founding, the university has cultivated nearly 200,000 professionals in various civil aviation fields. Among them are plane Captain Liu Chuanjian, a heroic pilot who successfully made an emergency landing after the cockpit window broke mid-flight while carrying over 100 passengers, and the chief test flight crew members of China's domestically developed aircraft, including the ARJ21, C919 and AG600. The university has also trained over 1,000 civil aviation professionals such as pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, airport managers, dispatchers, and flight attendants for the Belt and Road Initiative partner countries, providing talent support and intellectual contributions to their civil aviation development. "After learning about the glorious history of Xinjin airfield, we realize that in today's world, only by remembering history and cherishing peace can we truly advance global prosperity and development", said Yan Bowen, a student at CAFUC. Scattered around the runway and fields, the massive concrete rollers stand as silent witnesses to history. Nearby, an aging fuel depot's weathered walls whisper tales of time's relentless passage. As dusk descends upon Xinjin airfield, the runway lights flicker to life, their glow casting long shadows across the tarmac. For a fleeting moment, victory of defeating fascism together seems to breathe again-the thunder of B-29 engines, the shouts of mechanics, the tension of wartime preparations all but audible in the evening air. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Gene Simmons was left choked up while paying tribute to Ozzy Osbourne after the musicians death, aged 76. Osbournes death has rocked the world of music, with tributes flooding in for the star who bid farewell to fans just three weeks ago at a Black Sabbath reunion show in his hometown of Birmingham. Kiss frontman Simmons, 75, remembered the Prince of Darkness, with whom he had been friends since the 1970s, during an interview on BBC Breakfast. Stumbling over his words, Simmons grew emotional while recalling their first encounter in Boston, calling Osbourne an English gentleman off stage in comparison to his mad man stage persona. Apologising to BBC hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay, the rock star said: Sorry, I got choked up. Sorry about that. He said there were no airs about Osbourne, adding: Most of the fans will know Ozzy as the Prince of Darkness, and if you were lucky enough to meet Ozzy as a human being off stage, youd be shocked because he treated people exactly the same way. Its fair to say that there was never an Ozzy Osbourne before Ozzy, and there never will be another Ozzy. In science, they call it a singularity. Hes just a unique and lovable person. Simmons went on to say that his heart goes out to Osbournes s wife Sharon and his kids Jack, Kelly and Aimee and grew emotional again when he said Osbourne would ask him about his own family whenever they ran into each other. open image in gallery Ozzy Osbourne has died. aged 76 ( AP ) I know that right now millions of fans around the world are crying and shocked and cant believe it, Simmons said, adding that he didnt believe the news himself when he first heard it. Its been such a sad day. It started this morning here in California with my phone ringing and the texts going off, and I thought it was just fake news, he said. Ozzy dead? I thought it was just psycho babble on TikTok, and soon enough I learned the tragic news. open image in gallery Gene Simmons choked up while remembering Ozzy Osbourne on BBC Breakfast ( BBC ) Black Sabbath and Kiss had a brief rivalry while touring together in 1974, but Simmons has long been vocal about his respect for the metal band. I've always loved and admired Black Sabbath and can proudly say the early days of touring together will be a lifelong memory, he told MusicRadar in February 2025. Osbournes death was announced in a statement by his family, who said: It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. His death comes weeks after he performed his farewell show with the original Sabbath founding members at their Back to the Beginning charity event in Birmingham, benefiting Acorns Childrens Hospice, Birmingham Childrens Hospital, and Cure Parkinsons. During the 10-hour show, fans saw performances from bands including Slayer, Tool, Gojira, Metallica, and Guns N Roses, while Osbourne himself performed some of his biggest solo hits from a black winged throne. In a West End thats crowded with naff stagings of nostalgic films, from Clueless to Hercules, the Savoy Theatres Burlesque The Musical stands out from the pack for featuring significantly fewer clothes and a lot more sass. Its based on a fairly terrible 2010 movie that was shredded by critics then became a gay cult classic, thanks to Christina Aguilera and Chers entertainingly campy, leather lingerie-clad central turns. Now, writer Steven Antin and mammoth songwriting team of Aguilera, Sia, Todrick Hall and Jess Folley have given this messy source material a thorough once-over. And it scrubs up surprisingly well, enlivened by endless queer in-jokes, spectacular burlesque routines from both male and female dancers, and a naked desire to give audiences what they want. The plot here is flimsier than a boylesque dancers thong. Originally played by Aguilera, Ali is a small-town Iowa girl who ventures into big, bad New York City in search of the mother she never met. There, she meets Tess (originally played by Cher), the bossy, no-nonsense matriarch of a burlesque club, whos battling her dastardly English ex-husband to save her business from financial ruin. In true Muppet movie style, the answer is to put on one helluva show, with singing, dancing, and bum-waggling galore. Everything about this story is deeply predictable. But oddly, it doesnt feel boring, thanks to fantastic vocal performances and plenty of metaphorical and literal fireworks. As Ali, Folley has a refreshing edge, her faintly jarring gawky mannerisms in the first act giving way to formidable vocal power as she finds her inner diva (I will not be upstaged by some slut with mutant lungs, hisses fuming club queen bee Nikki). And as Tess, Orfeh has a strong, strident alto voice, belting through numbers that deserve more time to unfold. Still, these two stars are outdiva-d by musician and American Idol star Hall, who leaps out of what could be a gay best friend role and into the limelight he even took over from original director Nick Winston on direction and choreography after the shows earlier tryouts in Manchester and Glasgow. Here, he drags up as Alis hometown choir mistress Miss Loretta, delivers lessons in burlesque as club worker Sean, and fills up this shows running time with an excess of glibly written comic numbers like Dont Make Me Sing. Arguably, hes slightly too present in the first half (My backs aching from carrying the whole show, he complains, with a hopefully self-aware narcissism) but when he retreats, other performers show their worth: especially Asha Parker-Wallace as Nikki, who brings so much unexpected complexity to her underwritten enemy-to-friend trajectory. Burlesque has had a complicated journey into the West End. Its production process was hurried up so it could fill a surprise slot at the Savoy Theatre; before it opened, rumours swirled of unfinished costumes or previews that ran dangerously close to four hours. But on current evidence, it feels pretty slick, full of crowd-pleasing moments like a Chippendales-style male strip routine, and peppy recreations of TikTok memes. Its been made with obvious (if arguably misguided) love for its source material, and a palpable desire to open it up to the queer community who saw their lives reflected in this nominally heterosexual story. And most importantly of all, its genuinely fun to watch. It might be skimpy, but it covers all the bases it needs to. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Judge Judy has weighed in on the Menendez brothers case less than one month before they are scheduled for a parole hearing. The popular 82-year-old television court show judge, whose real name is Judith Susan Sheindlin, revealed in an interview with USA Today what she thinks should happen to Erik and Lyle Menendez, who are currently in prison for the 1989 shotgun murder of their parents, Mary Louise Kitty Menendez and Jose Menendez. What we know about the Menendez brothers is that they killed both of their parents, Sheindlin told the publication. As we know, after they killed their parents, they went on a buying spree. They got a jury trial, and they were sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Despite the brothers resentencing a few months ago, granting them the chance to be released on parole, Sheindlin said she would not have made that decision if she were the judge in the courtroom. They've done incredibly well in prison, but that doesn't mean they get another chance, she said. That is their sentence. Until Kitty Menendez can stand up before a judge and say, Give them another chance, the jury and the courts have spoken. Now you have my answer. I'm going to get a lot of flak for that. They've done incredibly well in prison, but that doesn't mean they get another chance, Sheindlin said ( Getty Images for Keep Memory Ali ) Defense attorneys argued during the 1996 trial that the brothers acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father, but prosecutors argued that they killed their parents for a multimillion-dollar inheritance. After serving 35 years in prison, the brothers had their prison sentences reduced in May 2025 from life without parole to 50 years to life, which will make them eligible for parole under Californias youthful offender law because they committed the crime under the age of 26. The brothers were 18 and 21 at the time of the killings. They are currently awaiting an August 22 parole board hearing to determine if they will be released from prison. Sheindlins comments come as attorney Mark Geragos has called for Eriks immediate release from prison due to a serious medical condition. The specifics of Eriks condition have not been disclosed, though TMZ later reported on Tuesday he is suffering from kidney stones. Erik is having a serious medical condition right now, Geragos told TMZ. I just think he should be parole furloughed, I think is the proper term, and he could be medically furloughed in advance of the hearing so that he can work with the parole attorney and get up to speed and be ready and do it and give it his best shot. I think that it's the only fair and equitable thing to do, he said. Geragos confirmed that Erik has been receiving treatment at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego, California. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner was reportedly swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when he drowned, Costa Rican authorities have said. Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the Eighties sitcom, was vacationing with his family in Cahuita, Limon, over the weekend, when he died after being dragged by a water current at a nearby beach. At the time of the fatal incident, Warner was in the water with his young daughter when surfers noticed the pair struggling, police told ABC News. The surfers dove in to help them, with one using his surfboard to bring Warners daughter to safety. A volunteer lifeguard assisted in bringing Warner and another surfer to shore, authorities said. On the beach, Warner was attended to by first responders, who rendered him CPR before he was declared dead, the Costa Rican Red Cross confirmed to The Independent. The scene was subsequently handed over to the police authorities for the appropriate legal procedures, the organization said in a statement. Malcolm-Jamal Warner (pictured in 2020) drowned while on a family vacation in Costa Rica ( Getty Images for SCAD aTVfest 20 ) Its unclear if the second surfer pulled out of the water was the unnamed male who was rushed to a local Limon clinic in critical condition, after also being caught in the dangerous water current that led to Warners death. On Sunday at around 2:10 p.m., the Costa Rican Red Cross received a report about a water-related incident involving two males at the Playa Grande resort in Cahuita, Limon, the organization said in a statement shared with The Independent. In an earlier statement shared Monday, per People, the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) confirmed that Warner appears to have entered the sea and was apparently swept away by a current. Bystanders rescued Warner from the water and brought him to shore. However, he was declared lifeless at the scene, the OIJ statement said. The actors official cause of death was asphyxia by submersion and ruled an accident, police confirmed, per ABC News. While best known for his work on The Cosby Show, Warner had more recently appeared in Sons of Anarchy, The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story, and The Resident. His tragic death has been mourned by fans, co-stars, and colleagues alike. Warners famous ex, Regina King, whom he dated from 2011 to 2013, posted a tribute to her Instagram Story on Monday. Some people leave a lasting imprint, not just for who they were but for the energy they carried. Im sending prayers filled with love and understanding to your family and loved ones, she wrote. Rest easy Malcolm-Jamal Warner. His Malcom & Eddie co-star Eddie Griffin remembered him as my big little brother. My Heart is heavy today For what the world lost was a Father a Son a Poet a Musician a Actor a Teacher a Writer a Director a Friend a Warrior that I had the pleasure of going to war with against the Hollywood machine and sometimes with each other because thats what Brothers do but the Love was and is always there, Griffin wrote on Instagram. Youve taught me so much and I thank you. Geoffrey Owens, who co-starred with Warner on The Cosby Show, additionally reflected on the actors sudden death in a statement made to Us Weekly. This tragedy has almost left me speechless, he said. Malcolm was a lovely man, a sweet and sensitive soul. I respected him for many reasons, including the fact that he genuinely loved the act of creation. He had the mind of an actor and the heart of a musician. He was generous too, Owens added. I did a theater project long ago and asked him to participate, and he was there for me. My heart goes out to his family. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Nihal Arthanayake, who resigned from the BBC last month, is set to make a dramatic pivot to a career in comedy. The 54-year-old worked at the broadcaster since 2002, presenting a range of shows across Radio One and the Asian Network. In 2016, he joined 5 Live as co-host of the Afternoon Edition, which was broadcast from 1pm to 4pm from Monday to Thursday. Arthanayake quit his role in June 2025, having repeatedly called out the organisation for a lack of diversity, something he said was impacting his mental health. Speaking to The Times, the presenter said that the corporation is in an existential crisis and that he couldnt be happy there any more. open image in gallery Nihal Arthanayake has worked at the BBC for 23 years ( PA ) Arthanayake who cites his comedy heroes as David Letterman, Dave Chappelle and Romesh Ranganathan is set to make his stand-up debut on Saturday (26 July) at the Battersea Arts Centre. Ive spent most of my life in a radio studio in front of a microphone on my own. I no longer feel any challenge in broadcasting, he said. Taking a significant pay cut to pursue his dream, Arthanayake admitted that the idea of changing careers is terrifying, but added that he has a bizarre optimism that it will all be OK. His stand-up experience is limited to just a few minutes on his own radio shows and hosting gigs. At one event, he mocked Sadiq Khan, joking: There goes Sadiq Khan, the son of a bus driver although youd never know it because he never mentions it. Over the years, the Mayor of London has gained a reputation for citing his fathers occupation in interviews. Arthanayake believes that his radio skills are transferable to the comedy world, adding that he has experience dealing with hecklers. The presenter, however, is not afraid of failing, stating: [I want to] know what thats like to die on stage, because Ill only get better. open image in gallery BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Nihal Arthanayake has said an overwhelmingly white working environment was affecting his mental health ( PA ) He has been outspoken in his criticism of the BBC. In November 2023, while speaking at the Journalism Diversity Fund (JDF) conference at BBC Media City in Salford, Arthanayake said: Ive seen a lot of people leave this building because they couldnt deal with the culture. Speaking about the lack of diversity at the broadcaster, he said: I dont think theres a single Muslim involved in the senior editorial processes at BBC Radio 5 Live. The hardest thing is to walk into a room, look around and nobody looks like you. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have put their luxurious U.K. home up for sale less than a year after moving out of the U.S. The former talk show host, 67, and Arrested Development actor, 52, are selling their farm estate in Cotswolds, England, for $30 million after paying $20 million for the property in spring 2024, Andrew Barnes of U.K. Sothebys International Realty told The Wall Street Journal. Barnes told the publication that after living on the estate for a month, the couple chose to relocate to a home that could better accommodate their animals. When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldnt live without her horses, DeGeneres said in a statement provided to the outlet by Sothebys. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them. The listing comes after the couple completed extensive renovations on the estate, known as Kitesbridge Farm. Married since 2008, the couple known for flipping houses brought in 70 workers to renovate the property in under five months months, despite being told the process would take 18 months. The couple moved so de Rossi (right) would have space for her horses ( Getty ) The seven-bedroom, seven-bathroom estate is comprised of modern design choices and 16,600 square feet of living space, with some of the building connected by glass walkways. Boasting 43 acres, the property contains a party barn with a pub, a heated five-car garage, and kitchenette, a separate fitness center with a gym and heated swimming pool, and a two-bedroom guest house connected to the main house, which was built in the 1700s. DeGeneres and de Rossi first moved to the English countryside in November 2024, shortly before Donald Trump was elected President of the United States for a second term. The Finding Dory actor revealed Sunday, when speaking with English broadcaster Richard Bacon in Cheltenham, that she did make the move specifically because of the U.S. election. Yes. We got here the day before the election and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis, and I was like, He got in. And were like, Were staying here, she said, according to The Guardian. After her long-running eponymous talk show ended in 2022 following allegations of a toxic workplace environment, DeGeneres went on a final comedy tour around the U.S., which ended in August that year. Shortly after that, the couple bought what DeGeneres described as a part-time house in the Cotswolds, where they intended to spend around four months a year. After Trumps re-election, however, that plan turned permanent. DeGeneres said the house itself is absolutely beautiful, adding that they saw snow there this winter for the first time since the move. Were just not used to seeing this kind of beauty. The villages and the towns and the architecture everything you see is charming, and its just a simpler way of life. Its clean. Everything here is just better the way animals are treated, people are polite. I just love it here, she said. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- China is widely recognized as one of the safest countries in the world, a senior Chinese public security official said Wednesday when talking about achievements in the public security sector during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, made the remarks at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office. According to Qi, public security organs have helped facilitate China's high-quality development by resolutely safeguarding public safety. With their efforts, China has maintained one of the lowest incidences of fatal criminal cases, the lowest rates of criminal offenses, and the fewest cases involving firearms and explosives. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Media professionals work at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) A journalist asks questions at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the SCIO on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) A journalist asks questions at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO) in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2025. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, attends a press conference held by the SCIO on ensuring high-level security as a safeguard for the high-quality completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Actor Miriam Margolyes has expressed regret for once slapping her paralysed mother Ruth. The 84-year-old actor said, of everyone shes ever known, she would most like to apologise to her mum over a violent outburst. Ruth Margoyles died in 1974 aged 69. Speaking to The Times, Margolyes said her mother was unable to speak as the result of a stroke, when the star hit her in a frenzy of frustration. And I will regret it till I die, she said. The terrible thing about a stroke is that sometimes you cant communicate. And that, for both of us, was terrifying and awful. The actor said she was overcome with horror by her actions, adding: It didnt hurt her, but I hurt myself. In her 2021 memoir, titled This Much Is True, Margolyes detailed her devoted relationship with her mother. She later admitted to omitting the slap from the book. I didnt mention something that I should have mentioned, and that was that I hit my mother when she was paralysed, she said on an episode of the BBCs Imagine documentary series. open image in gallery Actor Miriam Margolyes has revealed she once slapped her mum Ruth ( Getty Images ) Margolyes continued: Anyone whos been a carer will know how frustrating and difficult it is and I let that happen, Im deeply ashamed of it. She added, tearfully: The thing that really gets to me is that my mother forgave me. I hit her when she was paralysed and she forgave me. In her memoir, Margolyes called her mother the rock in her life. Without a doubt, the most important person in my life was my mother. Perhaps she still is, the actor wrote. She bound me to her, quite deliberately, with emotional hoops of steel. open image in gallery The actor was in a frenzy of frustration when she hit her paralysed mother ( PA ) Ruth died in 1974, aged 69. Her health had deteriorated for seven years following her stroke, leaving her unable to move and barely able to speak. Margolyes told her mother she was gay three days before the stroke occurred. Mummy was not broad-minded in that sort of way, especially not with me. I was her creation, her only child, she later told The Express. I dont think I ever processed it at the time but I think my mother would not have allowed me to have a relationship with my partner. It was something she would not have accepted and that would have destroyed me. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A nine-year-old girl from Canada who was found dead in an upstate New York pond was drowned, according to preliminary autopsy results released Tuesday. Luciano Frattolin, 45, of Montreal, was charged with murdering and concealing the corpse of his daughter, Melina Frattolin, after reporting her missing. He pleaded not guilty Monday and was being held in a county jail. Frattolin called 911 on Saturday night and said his daughter went missing from a parking lot near Lake George, a resort town in the Adirondack region. He later told authorities that two men forced his daughter into a white van, according to New York State Police. open image in gallery Luciano Frattolin ( New York State Police ) Officials issued an Amber Alert, seeking the publics help in the search but investigators noticed inconsistencies in the fathers account and eventually concluded there was no evidence the girl had been abducted. A team led by state forest rangers found the girls body on Sunday afternoon in the shallow part of a pond in the woods of Ticonderoga, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Lake George. The criminal complaint said Frattolin concealed her body under a log. open image in gallery New York State Police Capt. Robert McConnell speaks at a news conference ( AP ) The preliminary autopsy results said the cause of death was "asphyxia due to drowning" and classified it as a homicide, according to state police. Final autopsy results are pending. Police said the father and daughter had been vacationing since July 11 in the U.S. and were expected back in Montreal that weekend. The girl lived with her mother, who has been estranged from Luciano Frattolin since 2019, police said. The investigation into the girl's death is continuing. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A judge Wednesday sentenced Bryan Kohberger to die in prison for the senseless slaughter of four Idaho college students after the killer refused to reveal his motive before learning his fate. An emotional and, at times, choked up Judge Steven Hippler condemned Kohberger to spend the rest of his life behind bars for committing unspeakable evil as he handed him four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. On Nov. 13, 2022, Kohberger broke into the off-campus home of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, in the small town of Moscow during the middle of the night and stabbed the students to death as most of them slept. The only time Kohberger spoke at Wednesdays hearing was to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court or reveal why he committed the gruesome crimes. Parents who took their children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, Hippler said before pronouncing his sentence in the Boise, Idaho courtroom. open image in gallery Bryan Kohberger appeared in the courtroom in Boise, Idaho, dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs. He was sentenced to life without parole for the murders of the four Idaho college students. ( AP ) To this day, investigators have not found a single connection between Kohberger and his victims, Idaho State Police Lt. Darren Gilbertson said at a press conference after the hearing. Sentencing Kohberger, the judge acknowledged the families longing to understand the murderers motive, and said we may never know why. By continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency. We give him power, Hippler said. The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave. During the nearly three-hour hearing, devastated parents, grandparents, siblings and surviving roommates of the four slain students told Kohberger that nobody cares about him as they confronted the mass murderer. Kohberger, dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit and wearing handcuffs, was emotionless and even looked bored most of the time as he slouched back in his chair but occasionally flinched as he listened to heart-wrenching statements in the courtroom. open image in gallery Kohberger broke into the home of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, in the small town of Moscow during the middle of the night and stabbed the students to death. ( Instagram ) Through tears and rage, the families told Kohberger of the agony his crimes have inflicted upon them and what they have endured over the last few years. Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson was also brought to tears as he recommended Kohberger spend the rest of his life behind bars. Steve Goncalves, the father of Kaylee Goncalves, turned to face Kohberger head-on to deliver his powerful impact statement. Nobody cares about you, he told the killer. From this moment, we'll forget you. You tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us. You failed. You united everyone in their disgust for you. open image in gallery The parents of Kaylee Goncalves, who told Kohberger nobody cares about him. ( AP ) The worlds watching because of the kids, not because of you. Nobody cares about you. In time, you will be nothing but two initials, forgotten to the wind, Steve Goncalves added. He called Kohberger a joke as he also described how easy it was to track him down. Police officers tell us within minutes they had your DNA. Like a calling card. You were that careless. That foolish. That stupid. Master degree? Youre a joke. Complete joke, Goncalves mocked. Kaylees sister, Alivea Goncalves, unleashed on Kohberger, calling him a psychopath in a statement that drew applause for the way she laid into the killer. The truth is, youre basic, she said, directly speaking to Kohberger. Let me be very clear: Dont ever try to convince yourself you matter just because someone finally said your name out loud. I see through you, she said. Sit up straight when I talk to you, she demanded of the slouching murderer. open image in gallery Kaylees sister, Alivea Goncalves, unleashed on Kohberger, calling him a Psychopath in a statement that drew applause for the way she laid into the killer. ( AP ) Disappointments like you thrive on pain. I wont feed your beast, she said. Instead, I will call you what you are. Sociopath. Psychopath. Murderer. You want the the truth? Heres the one youll hate the most: If you hadnt attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night, like a pedophile, Kaylee wouldve kicked your f***ing ass, Alivea Goncalves raged at Kohberger. The courtroom broke out in applause. Kaylees mom, Kristi Goncalves, told Kohberger that hell will be waiting. You are nothing. May you continue to live your life in misery. You are officially the property of the state of Idaho, where your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival, she said. Loved ones of Xana Kernodle also condemned Kohberger to hell. You are going to suffer. I am shaking because I want to reach out to you. Go to hell, said Randy Davis, Xanas stepfather, as he pointed at Kohberger in a rage. Xanas mother, Cara Northington, read an emotional letter to her daughter, who had a light so bright it will live on forever. open image in gallery Dylan Mortensen, comforted by a loved one in the court, told Kohberger that he was a hollow vessel, something less than human. ( AP ) Nothing man can do to you can ever compare to the wrath of God, Northington said. Inveitably, youll stand before our Lord and youll have to answer to him over the sins youve committed in murdering our children. Dylan Mortensen, one of the two roommates who survived the killings, told Kohberger he was evil as she defiantly told him he would never take away her voice. Through tears, Mortensen told Kohberger that he was a hollow vessel, something less than human. The other surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, whose statement was read aloud by a friend, revealed that she slept in her parents bedroom for a year after the murders. Funke also expressed regret over not calling 911 sooner. open image in gallery Cara Northington, Xana Kernodles mother, read an emotional letter to her daughter, who had a light so bright it will live on forever. ( AP ) Madison Mogens stepfather, Scott Laramie, said that the family will grow old without our only child in an emotional statement that shared the crushing loss of an only child who was just about to embark on the world. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Maddie was taken senselessly and brutally in a sudden act of evil, Laramie said. Since Maddies loss, theres emptiness in our hearts, home and family -- an endless void. Kohbergers mother, accompanied in court by his sister, quietly sobbed as parents of the victims described their grief. Chapins family was not at the hearing, but his mom, Stacy, shared a picture of her son as a child to her Instagram story with a blue love heart. open image in gallery Kohberger, pictured at the plea-deal hearing on July 2, will be given the chance to speak in whats known as an allocution, but he doesnt have to say anything and the judge cant force him to. ( AP ) True crime fans, members of the public and the media were camped out all night to ensure they get a glimpse of the killer inside the Ada County Courthouse. For more than two years, Kohberger maintained his innocence. His long-awaited trial was just weeks away and scheduled for August 18, but in a bombshell twist, he pleaded guilty on July 2. The sudden plea deal took the death penalty off the table. The families of Kohbergers victims have been longing for an answer to one simple question: Why? His motive remains a mystery and will likely remain so. Defendants can use their statement to express remorse, ask for mercy or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing. But because the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantee of the right to remain silent remains in effect during sentencing hearings, they can choose not to speak at all. Kohbergers team of defense attorneys announced last week that they won't be releasing any statements after the sentencing. President Donald Trump weighed in Monday, posting on Truth Social: I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. The murders shook the small town of Moscow in November 2022. For weeks, only scant details about the carnage that night were revealed as the community reeled from the tragedy and grappled with fears of a murderer on the loose. Kohberger, a graduate student at Washington State University at the time of the murders, wasnt arrested until six weeks later, on December 30, 2022. At the plea-deal hearing earlier this month, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson outlined chilling details of the night of the murders. He told the court how Kohberger broke into the six-bedroom three-storey house and headed to the third floor, where he killed Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves first. open image in gallery The selfie Kohberger took at his home in Pullman, Washington state, just hours after carrying out the murders, the prosecution said. ( Latah County Prosecutors Office ) Then, he killed Xana Kernodle after encountering her while she was picking up a DoorDash delivery, before stabbing her boyfriend, Ethan Chapin, who was asleep in their bedroom. Two others, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, were the only roommates to survive the killings, with Mortensen coming face to face with Kohberger at one terrifying moment. After fleeing the scene, prosecutors said that Kohberger took a selfie that morning at his Pullman residence in Washington state, approximately 9.5 miles from Moscow, with his thumbs up. The leather sheath from the knife Kohberger used to murder Goncalves and Mogen was discovered on the bed, but the weapon itself has never been found. Six weeks later, Kohberger was arrested at his parents home in Pennsylvania. Kohberger was linked to the crime through cellphone location records, police said, and security video of a white Hyundai Elantra, a similar model of the car seen near the murder home around the time of the murders. Kohberger changed the license plates on his Hyundai Elantra just days after the murders. After changing his plea to guilty, both sides in the case agreed to a proposed sentence of four consecutive life sentences without parole, in addition to 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger waived his right to appeal any issues in the case, without the possibility of parole. This is a breaking story, check back for live updates 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Judge Steven Hippler did not mince his words as he sentenced the worst of the worst Bryan Kohberger to four consecutive life terms for murdering four University of Idaho students. An at times choked-up Hippler delivered an emotional, several-minute-long statement before sentencing Kohberger, 30, calling him a "faceless coward." The Idaho judge also shared his admiration for the victims' families. Hippler ripped intoKohberger for showing no remorse and said he couldn't legally compel him to explain the killings, but doubted Kohberger would tell the truth even if asked. "There is no reason for these crimes that could approach anything resembling rationality," Hippler said. open image in gallery Bryan Kohberger, 30, was sentenced to four consecutive life prison sentences without parole on Wednesday. The judge ripped the killer before handing down the sentence. ( Getty Images ) "No conceivable reason could make any sense, and in the end, the more we struggle to seek an explanation for the unexplainable, the more we try to extract a reason, the more power and control we give to him. In my view, the time has now come to end Mr. Kohberger's 15 minutes of fame." Hippler mentioned one of Idaho's longest-serving judges, Edward Lodge, and how the legend always tried to think of one good quality in the people he sentenced. Truth be told, I'm unable to come up with anything redeeming about Mr. Kohberger, because his grotesque acts of evil have buried and hidden anything that might have been good or intrinsically human about him, Hippler told the courtroom. open image in gallery Scott Laramie, stepfather of victim Madison Morgan, listens during the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23 in Boise, Idaho. ( Getty Images ) His actions have made him the worst of the worst. Even in pleading guilty, hes given nothing hinting of remorse or redemption, nothing suggesting even a recognition or understanding, let alone regret, for the pain that he has caused, he continued. Therefore, I will not attempt to speak about him further, other than to simply sentence him so that he is forever removed from civilized society. The killer showed no reaction as Hippler revealed his fate. On top of the consecutive life sentences, Kohberger was fined $50,000 per charge and must pay $5,000 in civil penalties to each victim's family. open image in gallery Dylan Mortensen is comforted after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23 in Boise, Idaho. ( Getty Images ) As part of the plea deal, he must submit his DNA. Kohberger has no chance at parole. Kohberger waived his right to appeal, but Hippler said he can still file a notice of appeal, though doing so may breach the terms of his plea agreement. The murderer also declined to speak following the reading of victim impact statements, to which the victims families and surviving roommates reportedly mumbled, surprise, surprise and coward. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Nearly three years after four University of Idaho students were brutally stabbed to death in their off-campus home, their grieving families will have a chance to confront the man who admitted to killing them. Bryan Kohberger, 30, a former PhD criminology student, is set to be sentenced in Boise, Idaho, Wednesday for the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. The November 2022 slayings shocked the college town of Moscow and captured national attention due to the horrifying violence with no clear motive. For over two years, Kohberger maintained his innocence, until July 2, 2025, when in a bombshell twist, he pleaded guilty to all four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. The plea deal took the death penalty off the table. Instead, Kohberger will be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, and the families of his victims will finally have a chance to address him face-to-face. open image in gallery Brian Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders of Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21. He is set to be sentenced on July 22. ( AP ) What to expect at the courthouse The sentencing will begin at 9 a.m. MT (11 a.m. ET) Wednesday inside the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, which is expected to fill up with victims families, friends, along with members of the media and true crime fans eager for a glimpse at the confessed killer. Kohberger's defense attorneys got the trial moved from Latah County to the states capitol after expressing concerns that the court wouldn't be able to find enough unbiased jurors in the rural farming community of Moscow. The families and surviving roommates of the victims will have the opportunity to describe the damage the killings have done to them. Because there are so many of them, the hearing could stretch into Thursday. The victims families will get a chance to come face-to-face with Kohberger and a chance to speak directly to their loved ones killer. open image in gallery Ethan Chapin's parents, Jim and Stacy Chapin, arrive at the Ada County Courthouse when Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty on July 2. His plea deal calls for him to spent life behind bars. ( Reuters ) The family of Ethan Chapin has said they do not plan to attend, but the families of the three women killed are expected to appear in court. Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, the two surviving roommates who have largely avoided the public eye, may also choose to address the court. Moscow Police Chief Anthony Dahlinger told ABC News that he hopes the sentencing will allow not only the families, but the town of Moscow, to heal and bring some sort of closure to this horrendous act. Will Kohberger speak? After the victims family and friends deliver their statements, Kohberger will be given the chance to speak, in whats known as an allocution a defendants right to address the court before sentencing. Defendants might use their statement to express remorse, ask for mercy or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing. But because the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantee of the right to remain silent remains in effect during sentencing hearings, they can choose not to speak at all. That means Kohberger doesnt have to say anything and the judge cant force him to. In past court appearances, Kohberger has remained stoic, emotionless, and silent. At his plea deal hearing, he confessed to the murders, the first time the public had heard his voice in years. He confirmed the facts of the crime with a simple yes. Yes, he entered the King Road house; yes, he intended to commit murder but offered no elaboration. open image in gallery Brian Kohberger, charged in the murders of four University of Idaho students, appears at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. ( AP ) Kohberger has not explained why he committed these murders nor has he offered any details about the crime. And hes not required to. The plea agreement includes no obligation for him to share a motive, nor to apologize or express remorse. If he does decide to speak, anything he says is not under oath and he cannot be cross-examined. Even if he declines to speak now, Kohberger could choose to talk in the future. Theres nothing in the plea agreement preventing him from speaking to the media or publishing a book. Motive a mystery that remains unsolved Despite Kohbergers guilty plea, the most haunting question still lingers: why? At the time of the killings, Kohberger was a criminal justice graduate student at Washington State University, and prosecutors say he used his knowledge about forensic investigations to attempt to cover his tracks by deep cleaning his vehicle after the crime. Kohberger was arrested nearly seven weeks after the killings, when investigators linked him to the crime through DNA left at the scene, surveillance video of a car matching his, and cellphone data. Police say Kohberger's Amazon purchase history shows he bought a military-style knife as well as the knife sheath found at the home. But the knife itself was never found. And while a clear motive has not been presented the sentencing may not provide one. President Donald Trump weighed in Monday, posting on Truth Social: I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. The Goncalves family acknowledged his statement and in a post on Facebook, wrote: I definitely do not want to get into politics at all so I hesitated even posting this but wow. Absolutely shocked. Kaylee, Maddie, Xana, Ethan - you have always mattered so much. You are so loved & your nature, your light, your entire being is so bright & visible. You guys did this. You guys deserve every last ounce of recognition for this. open image in gallery Roommates Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21 ( Instagram ) A trove of evidence, including investigative documents and witness statements, remains under court protection and could be released after the sentencing. Last week, Hippler lifted the gag order but declined to unseal the files before sentencing. He said the court would begin reviewing them, starting with the newest. That process could take months. Families divided over plea deal News of the plea deal divided the victims families. Kaylee Goncalves father, Steve Goncalves, criticized prosecutors for failing to consult the families. Today was the day to find out what happened, he said after the plea hearing earlier this month. At least thats what we hoped for, but hope is really all we had. Others, however, welcomed the plea deal. Karen and Scott Laramie, parents of Madison Mogen, said avoiding a lengthy trial spared them additional trauma. open image in gallery Victim father Steve Goncalves reacts to the expected guilty plea of suspect Bryan Kohberger in Boise ( Reuters ) We support the plea agreement 100 percent, their attorney said. We ask that others respect our belief that this is the best outcome possible. Stacy Chapin, mother of Ethan, acknowledged her familys initial desire for the death penalty but ultimately agreed with the prosecutors decision. We always felt like this was a better deal, she said. It allowed us to begin the process of healing. A death sentence would have triggered years of appeals and uncertainty. Under the plea, Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars and he has forfeited his right to appeal. After the sentencing: What comes next? As part of Kohbergers plea agreement, he accepted the maximum sentence for each count of murder and burglary. Hippler is not required to follow the deal, but cannot exceed it. When the sentencing hearing is over, Kohberger will be transferred to the custody of the Idaho Department of Correction. Hell undergo an evaluation before being assigned to a state prison. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In gut-wrenching testimony, one of the surviving roommates of the Idaho college murders sobbed as she confronted Bryan Kohberger before he was sentenced to die in prison about the devastating wake of the brutal murders of her four young friends. He took away birthdays, graduations, celebrations and all the memories we were supposed to make, Dylan Mortensen said at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, in her first public statements since the murders. He is a hollow vessel, something less than human. Authority, without empathy, without remorse. He chose destruction. He chose evil. He feels nothing, she said. University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, were stabbed to death in the frenzied attack at their college home around 4 a.m. on Nov. 13, 2022. Two roommates, Mortensen and Bethany Funke, survived the horrific violence. open image in gallery Dylan Mortensen speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. ( AP ) Due to a gag order over the case in anticipation of a trial, the two surviving roommates had been unable to speak earlier, and used the opportunity of Kohbergers sentencing hearing to address the devastation of his actions. All of it is gone, Mortensen said, as she wept. And all the people who love them are left to carry that forever. He didnt just take them from the world, he took them from me. My friends, my people, who felt like my home. In an emotional witness statement written by Funke, read on her behalf by friend Emily Alandt, she described the warmth of their off-campus home, full of friends and good memories. "Our house was not just a house, it was our home, wrote Funke. It was where we laughed til we couldn't breathe, make meals, did crafts, binge watched reality shows, played games and spent lazy days on the couch. It was movie nights, wine nights, morning debriefs, pranks, hot chocolate, cookies and warmth. I will cherish those memories forever and then will not let what happened erase how special our home was or how much those memories meant to me, Funke said. Kohberger admitted his guilt in a plea deal earlier this month that ensured he would not receive the death penalty but has refused to say why he did it. open image in gallery Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. ( AP ) Because of him, four beautiful, genuine, compassionate people were taken from this world for no reason, Mortensen said. He didn't just take their lives. He took the light they carried into every room. He took away how they made everyone feel safe, loved and full of joy, she said. He took away who they were becoming. Mortensen cried while speaking about what the loss meant for her personally, revealing that after the murders she spent a year sleeping in her mothers bed. Too terrified to close her eyes, she feared that if she blinked someone would be there. Wherever she went she made an escape plan, looking to see what she could use as a weapon. Mortensen said she regularly experiences panic attacks the kind that slam into me like a tsunami out of nowhere. I can't breathe, I can't think. I can't stop shaking, she said, sobbing so hard that she struggled to get the words out. He took away my ability to trust the world around me. What he did shattered me in places I didn't know could break. I should have been having the college experience and starting to establish my future. I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable. Both Mortensen and Funke heard noises that concerned them the night of the murders. They texted their friends asking if they were OK. Mortensen, who had seen someone in a black ski mask leave their house, ran downstairs to hide with Funke. open image in gallery Frantic text messages between Funke and Mortensen on the morning of the murders ( State of Idaho ) When I first woke up that morning, I had no idea what happened, wrote Funke, in a statement read on her behalf by Emily Alandt. Funke had a toothache that morning, so called her father, a dentist, took an Advil on his advice and went back to sleep before waking up again a few hours later. I was so frantic that morning, and scared to death, read Funkes statement. If I had known I, of course, would have called 911 right away. I still carry so much regret and guilt for not knowing what had happened and not calling right away, even though I understand it wouldn't have changed anything, not even if the paramedics had been right outside the door. She said that after she called 911, she doesnt remember a thing from the rest of the day. It was like my brain wiped that whole memory, Funke wrote. She said that the public skepticism about her actions caused even further trauma, resulting in her sleeping for nearly a year in her parents bedroom and refusing to open the blinds so that no one could see her. I was grieving, numb and unsure of what had happened was even real, and at the same time, I was getting flooded with death threats and hateful messages from people who did not know me at all or know the dynamic of our friendship, Funke continued. open image in gallery Dylan Mortensen gets a hug after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho ( AP ) She went on later to say that she tries to live now in honor of her four killed friends. Everything I do, I do it with them in mind, Funke wrote. I am still scared to go out in public, but I force myself to do things because I know that they would want me to keep living my life to the fullest. I am beyond blessed to still be here, and I refuse to take that for granted when they do not get a chance. Mortensen echoed her sentiments. He tried to take everything from me: my friends, my safety, my identity, my future, she declared. He took their lives, but I will continue trying to be like them, to make them proud. And living is how I honor them. Speaking today is to help me find some sort of justice for them, and I will never let him take that from me. He may have taken so much from me, but he will never get to take my voice. The gruesome murder case of four college students in the Idaho town of Moscow more than two and a half years ago concluded Wednesday, with killer Bryan Kohberger sentenced to four life terms in prison for the slayings. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A driver accused of intentionally plowing his car into a crowd outside a Los Angeles nightclub has been charged with 74 counts, including 37 counts of attempted murder. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges at a news conference Tuesday. The defendants brazen and destructive actions, as alleged in the criminal complaint, have caused unimaginable harm to dozens of innocent people, he said. Early Saturday morning, Fernando Ramirez, 29, intentionally drove his car onto the sidewalk near The Vermont Hollywood, a popular venue in East Hollywood, prosecutors say. Partygoers were leaving the venue at the end of a reggae hip-hop event when the car rammed into them. The car came to a stop after colliding with several food carts, which became lodged underneath the car, police say. open image in gallery Fernando Ramirez, the 29-year-old driver accused of intentionally plowing his car into a crowd outside a Los Angeles nightclub has been charged with 74 counts, including 37 counts of attempted murder ( AP ) open image in gallery A total of 37 people were hurt, with injuries ranging from minor scrapes to serious fractures and cuts to broken bones ( AXN News ) A total of 37 people were hurt, with injuries ranging from minor scrapes to serious fractures and cuts to broken bones, according to the DAs office. Some people were briefly trapped beneath the car. Aside from the attempted murder charges, Ramirez also faces 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon in connection with Saturdays incident. If convicted, he faces multiple life sentences. open image in gallery Early Saturday morning, Ramirez is accused of intentionally driving his car onto the sidewalk near The Vermont Hollywood, and the car came to a stop after colliding with several food carts ( AP ) Bystanders attacked Ramirez, and during the fight, a man flashed a gun and shot Ramirez once in the lower back, according to police. The man fled and police were unable to identify him as of Monday. Police released surveillance photos Monday from cameras near the crash showing a man with a goatee wearing a blue Dodgers jacket and a light blue jersey with the number 5. open image in gallery Bystanders attacked the driver and during the fight, a man, pictured, is accused of pulling out a gun and shooting Ramirez once in the lower back ( Los Angles Police Department ) Ramirez has a criminal history that includes a battery and gang-related charge in 2014, an aggravated battery conviction for a 2019 attack on a Black man at a Whole Foods grocery store in Laguna Beach, California, and a domestic violence charge in 2021, records show. A 2024 drunken driving case and 2022 domestic violence charge were pending at the time of the nightclub crash, according to records. Ramirez was out on bail on a separate case when he rammed into the busy crowd, prosecutors say. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The gruesome murder case of four college students in the Idaho town of Moscow more than two and a half years ago concluded Wednesday, with killer Bryan Kohberger sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison for the slayings. University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, were stabbed to death in the frenzied attack at their college home in the middle of the night on November 13, 2022. Two other roommates, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, were the only roommates to survive the killings and they spoke out for the first time in emotional testimony at Kohbergers sentencing hearing on July 23, 2025. For weeks after the killings, only scant details about the carnage that night were revealed as the community reeled from the tragedy and grappled with fears of a murderer on the loose. That changed when Kohberger was arrested in December 2022 after authorities raided his apartment, office and family home in search of evidence. open image in gallery Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin all students at the University of Idaho were ambushed in their rooms and stabbed to death by Bryan Kohberger with a military-style knife that has yet to be found. ( AP/Instagram ) For over two years, Kohberger maintained his innocence and his long-awaited trial was due to begin on August 18. But in a dramatic turn, the 30-year-old publicly admitted to the killings for the first time at a plea-deal hearing on July 2 to avoid the death penalty. Prosecutors said theres still no known connection between the victims and Kohberger, who had been planning the murders for months. In pleading guilty, Kohberger waived all rights to an appeal and was handed four consecutive life sentences at Wednesdays hearing. Here, The Independent takes a deep dive into the complex case. The night of the murders The students had all enjoyed a typical Saturday night out in the small college town. Goncalves and Mogen had been at a local bar, while Kernodle and Chapin went to a party at a frat house. After they returned in the early hours of November 13, Kohberger broke into the three-storey, six-bedroom house at around 4 a.m., as most of the students slept, and crept through the kitchen sliding door. Dressed in all-black with a balaclava, Kohberger headed to the third floor of the house and killed Mogen and Goncalves first, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson said at the plea-deal hearing. For some reason, Kohberger left the tan leather knife sheath next to Mogens body. His DNA was later discovered on the sheath, according to an arrest affidavit. Chillingly, Kernodle was still awake and had just received a DoorDash order when she came face to face with Kohberger immediately after he murdered her roommates. Kohberger was coming down the stairs from the third floor when he encountered Kernodle and killed her with a large knife, the prosecutor said. As her boyfriend Chapin slept in the second-floor bedroom, Kohberger stabbed him to death too. Two other roommates, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, were the only roommates to survive the killings. Mortensen also encountered Kohberger, according to a police report. She was asleep in her bedroom on the second floor when she was woken by what sounded like Goncalves playing with her dog in one of the third-floor bedrooms. open image in gallery Kohberger is due to be sentenced for the murders of Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21. ( Instagram ) Mortensen told investigators she was in her bedroom on the second floor the same floor where Kernodle and Chapin were killed and was standing in the doorway as the killer walked right past her. At one point, Mortensen said she heard someone believed to be either Goncalves or Kernodle saying, Theres someone here. Minutes later, Mortensen said she looked out of her bedroom for the first time but did not see anything. She then opened her door a second time when she heard what she thought was crying coming from Kernodles room. At that point, she said she heard a mans voice from above say something like, Its OK, Im going to help you. When she opened her door a third time minutes later, she said she saw a figure clad in black clothing and a mask that covered the persons mouth and nose walking towards her. Mortensen stood in a frozen shock phase as the man walked past her. She said she did not recognize him, but noted in her testimony that he had one bushy eyebrow. The figure headed toward the back sliding glass door of the home. open image in gallery The house in Moscow, Idaho, where the four University of Idaho students were murdered before the home was demolished in December 2023. ( AP ) Terrified, Mortensen then locked herself in her room and started exchanging panicked text messages with Funke. The students tried texting and calling their roommates, who unbeknownst to them, were dead in their bedrooms. Pls answer, Mortensen texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m., according to documents. A 911 call wasnt made until 11.56 a.m. eight hours later. The call, made from one of the surviving roommates cellphones, reported an unconscious individual. Prosecutors said that Kohberger took a selfie that morning at his Pullman residence in Washington state, approximately 9.5 miles from Moscow, with his thumbs up. The murder weapon has still never been found, prosecutors said at Julys hearing. Kohberger arrested in Pennsylvania weeks after murders After weeks of no updates on the investigation, law enforcement in Idaho and Pennsylvania announced Kohbergers arrest on December 30, 2022. A search warrant was executed at Kohbergers apartment in Pullman, Washington state, the same day he was arrested at his parents home in Pennsylvania. A record of evidence recovered during the apartment search revealed the seizure of 15 items, including hairs, receipts, a computer tower, a disposable glove and items with peculiar stains. open image in gallery The selfie Kohberger took the morning after the killings, posing with his thumbs up. ( Latah County Prosecutors Office ) In the search warrant record, investigators listed several items with stains, including cuttings of a mattress cover, a reddish/brown stain on an uncovered pillow and a collection of dark red spot. Kohberger was linked to the crime through cellphone location records, police said, and security video of a white Hyundai Elantra, a similar model of the car seen near the murder home around the time of the murders. Kohberger changed the license plates on his Hyundai Elantra just days after the murders. Who are the victims? Goncalves and Mogen were seniors at the University of Idaho and would have graduated in 2023. At a vigil weeks after the murders, Goncalvess father, Steve, told how the two absolutely beautiful young women first met in sixth grade and became inseparable. open image in gallery Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, pictured together before the killings, were the best of friends, their families said. ( Instagram ) They just found each other and every day they did homework together, they came to our house together, they shared everything, he said at the time. Then they started looking at colleges, they came here together. They eventually get into the same apartment together. And in the end, they died together, in the same room, in the same bed. Kernodle was a junior and Chapin was a freshman at the college. They had begun dating months before their deaths. Six months after the stabbings, the families of the slain students accepted posthumous awards for their achievements. open image in gallery 20-year-olds Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle were dating and had been at a frat house party the night of the murders. ( Jazzmin Kernodle ) Mogen and Goncalvess relatives walked the stage for their degrees in an emotional ceremony on May 13, 2023. Mogen was going to school for marketing and Goncalves for general studies. Kernodles family also accepted her certificate in marketing at a separate ceremony, while Chapins award in sports, recreation and management was mailed to his parents. The house in Moscow was demolished in December 2023 after the high-profile killings. Who is Bryan Kohberger? At the time of the murders, Kohberger was studying for his PhD and working as a teaching assistant in criminal justice at Washington State University. Kohberger previously studied criminology at Pennsylvanias DeSales University, first as an undergraduate, and then was set to finish his graduate studies in June 2022. According to online school records, Kohberger received an associate's degree in Arts in 2018 from Northampton Community College in Albrightsville and a master's degree in Criminal Justice from DeSales University. open image in gallery A list of items seized following a search warrant at Bryan Kohbergers home. ( Pennsylvania Courts ) While at DeSales, he studied under renowned forensic psychologist Katherine Ramsland, who interviewed the BTK serial killer and wrote the book Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer. Ramsland said that Kohberger did not present any red flags to her in a recent interview with NewsNation, but added: I have to look at the framework of what I taught and wonder, did I inspire him in some way? He had carried out a research project to understand how emotions and psychological traits influence decision-making when committing a crime. Kohberger had also reached out to potential participants on Reddit with the survey resurfacing after his arrest. open image in gallery The murder weapon has still never been found, prosecutors said at Julys hearing. ( Monroe County Correctional Facility ) In particular, this study seeks to understand the story behind your most recent criminal offense, with an emphasis on your thoughts and feelings throughout your experience, the post said. His fascination appears to have continued around the time of the killings when he applied for an internship with the local police department. The affidavit revealed he applied for an internship in the fall of 2022 with the Pullman Police Department and wrote in an essay how he had an interest in assisting rural law enforcement agencies with how to better collect and analyze technological data in public safety operations. Eerie plea-deal hearing where killer admitted guilty for the first time Kohberger did not display any emotion at an eerie plea-deal hearing in Boise, Idaho, three weeks ago, as he entered a guilty plea and spoke for the first time in the legal proceedings against him. Silence was broken only by muffled sobs by some of the victims family members, who looked down or away as the names of their slain loved ones were read aloud. Kohbergers parents, Michael Jr and Maryann, were in court for the hearing. open image in gallery Kohberger appeared impassive as he admitted to carrying out the brutal stabbing deaths of the four University of Idaho students. ( AP ) Judge Steven Hippler asked Kohberger if he had murdered Maddie Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin on that night two years ago. One by one, Kohberger answered each question with a simple but confident yes. The plea deal came as a shock to many, dividing the victims families and the public. The Goncalves family, who has been among the most vocal throughout the case, strongly opposed the plea. This aint justice, no judge presided, no jury weighed the truth, they wrote in a statement on Facebook. open image in gallery Kaylee Goncalvess father, Steve Goncalves, surrounded by the press outside the plea-deal hearing. ( Reuters ) Thompson robbed us of our day in court. No negotiations, no jury of our peers, not even the pretense of cooperation and fairness. Kernodles father told The New York Times that he does not agree with the plea deal, and said he is disappointed in the prosecutors decision. Earlier this week, Kernodles aunt said the prosecution told the family the deal was to spare them from hearing grisly details of the murders in court. We know the graphics. They were not trying to spare us, she said. But the families of Chapin and Mogen supported the plea deal. While we know there are some who do not support it, we ask that they respect our belief that this is the best outcome, Attorney Leander James said in a statement on behalf of Mogens family outside the courthouse on July 2. We now embark on a path of hope and healing. Emotional sentencing hearing where roommates speak out for first time A judge Wednesday sentenced Bryan Kohberger to die in prison for the senseless slaughter of four Idaho college students after the killer refused to reveal his motive before learning his fate. An emotional and, at times, choked up Judge Steven Hippler condemned Kohberger to spend the rest of his life behind bars for committing unspeakable evil during his July 23, 2025, sentencing hearing. The judge handed him four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. During the nearly three-hour hearing, devastated parents, grandparents, siblings and surviving roommates of the four slain students told Kohberger that nobody cares about him as they confronted the mass murderer. Mortensen, one of the two roommates who survived the killings, told Kohberger he was evil as she defiantly told him he would never take away her voice even though she revealed that the murders had left her suffering extreme panic attacks that slam into me like a tsunami. Through tears, Mortensen told Kohberger that he was a hollow vessel, something less than human. The other surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, whose statement was read aloud by a friend, revealed that she slept in her parents bedroom for a year after the murders. Funke also expressed regret over not calling 911 sooner, even though she said she knows there wouldnt have been enough time to save her friends lives. Everything I do, I do it with them in mind, Funke wrote. I am still scared to go out in public, but I force myself to do things because I know that they would want me to keep living my life to the fullest. I am beyond blessed to still be here, and I refuse to take that for granted when they do not get a chance. The only time Kohberger spoke at his sentencing hearing was to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court or reveal why he committed the gruesome crimes. With additional reporting from Rachel Dobkin, Andrea Blanco, Rachel Sharp and Sheila Flynn 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A doctor pleaded guilty Wednesday to giving Friends star Matthew Perry ketamine in the weeks before his 2023 overdose death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 43, changed his plea during a hearing in a Los Angeles courtroom. He is the fourth person to plead guilty in connection with the case. He had initially pleaded not guilty, but as part of a plea deal, prosecutors agreed to dismiss three additional counts of ketamine distribution and two counts of record falsification. Plasencias charges can carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. Plasencia exited the courthouse on Wednesday alongside his attorneys, ignoring questions from reporters waiting outside. Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry, the doctors attorney, Debra White, told The Associated Press in a statement after the hearing. He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution. Dr. Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction. open image in gallery Matthew Perry, 54, died of a drug overdose on October 28, 2023. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 43, pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine in Los Angeles on Wednesday. ( Getty ) While Dr. Plasencia was not treating Mr. Perry at the time of his death, he hopes his case serves as a warning to other medical professionals and leads to stricter oversight and clear protocols for the rapidly growing at-home ketamine industry in order to prevent future tragedies like this, the statement concluded. Plasencia has been free on bond since his arrest in August 2024. He will remain free until his scheduled December 3 sentencing. The only remaining defendant who has not reached an agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office is Jasveen Sangha, who prosecutors allege is a drug dealer known as the Ketamine Queen and sold Perry the dose that led to his death. open image in gallery Perry, who previously struggled with substance abuse, was found dead in his hot tub at his Los Angeles home. ( Getty ) Her trial is scheduled to begin in August. She has pleaded not guilty and is being represented by high-profile attorney Mark Geragos. According to prosecutors and co-defendants who reached their own deals, Plasencia illegally supplied Perry with a large amount of ketamine starting about a month before his death on October 28, 2023. According to co-defendant Dr. Mark Chavez, Plasencia believed Perry could be exploited for money, writing in a text message, I wonder how much this moron will pay for ketamine. Perry's personal assistant, his friend, and another doctor all agreed to plead guilty in 2024 in exchange for their cooperation as the government sought to make their case against larger targets, Plasencia and Sangha. None have been sentenced yet. Perry was found dead by assistant Kenneth Iwamasa. The medical examiner ruled that ketamine, typically used as a surgical anesthetic, was the primary cause of death. The actor had been using the drug through his regular doctor in a legal but off-label treatment for depression, which has become increasingly common. Perry, 54, began seeking more ketamine than his doctor would give him. open image in gallery Co-defendant Dr. Mark Chavez pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of conspiring to distribute ketamine ( AP ) Plasencia admitted in his plea agreement that another patient connected him with Perry, and that starting about a month before Perry's death, he illegally supplied the actor with 20 vials of ketamine totaling 100 mg of the drug, along with ketamine lozenges and syringes. After selling the drugs to Perry for $4,500, Plasencia allegedly asked Chavez if he could keep supplying them so they could become Perrys go-to, prosecutors said. Perry struggled with addiction for years, dating back to his time on Friends, when he became one of the biggest stars of his generation as Chandler Bing. He starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer for 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004 on NBCs megahit. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A suspect plotted to place at least seven improvised explosives across New York City, including on a subway track on the Williamsburg Bridge and a Manhattan apartment rooftop, according to law enforcement. Michael Gann, 55, of New York City, allegedly ordered chemicals that can be combined to make explosives, built seven devices and placed six of them before he was stopped by law enforcement, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. According to the indictment, Ganns alleged bombs were far more powerful than any legally-obtainable consumer explosive, containing approximately 30 grams of explosive powder, which is approximately 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks. Police allegedly have surveillance footage showing Gann placing his devices on rooftops in Manhattan. According to prosecutors, Gann ordered on May 30 two pounds of potassium perchlorate, a pound of aluminum powder, more than 200 cardboard tubes, more than 50 feet of fuses and other unspecific items that can be used for bomb building. open image in gallery An improvised explosive device allegedly built and placed by Michael Gann on the subway tracks at the Williamsburg Bridge in New York City is visible inside the red circle. ( United States Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York ) Gann allegedly received the materials on June 4, and prosecutors say he tested them by combining the perchlorate and and aluminum powder to create an explosion. The following day, he then allegedly transported the materials to Manhattan and built the bombs. Five of the explosives were found on Manhattan rooftops, one was found on the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, and another was found, allegedly, on Ganns after his arrest. He's being charged with one count of attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, one count of transportation of explosive materials and one count of unlawful possession of destructive devices. If convicted, Gann will face a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. Police did not share a possible motive for the bombing, but did share troubling social media posts he allegedly made prior to his arrest. In one message sent in March, a social media account believed to be operated by Gann asks President Donald Trump if he would bomb New York City. open image in gallery Five improvised explosive devices allegedly created by Michael Gann of New York. The devices were recovered by police from Manhattan rooftops on June 5. ( U.S. Department of Justice ) Dear @POTUS, Im thinking just now here in NYC that its too bad that the wall wasnt built before the National Guard would have to come here for the Protests and Riotation [sic] or would you just drop a bomb on this place while and because they seem to be coming and coming? he wrote. The tone and intent of the message is unclear. On June 5, just hours before his arrest, a post on Ganns Instagram account asked followers who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow? Investigators who probed into his digital life also allegedly found troubling searches that included searches such as will i pass a background check, 3D gun printing, clorine [sic] bomb and pyro supplies. FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher Raia praised the success of the investigation, noting that Gann was swiftly brought to justice before he could harm innocent civilians shortly after his dangerous actions became known. BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Over the past five years, China has strengthened the protection of trade secrets against criminal breaches in strategic emerging sectors, future industries, traditionally competitive industries, and other key areas, an official with the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), said Wednesday. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), public security authorities across China launched a special campaign, resulting in the handling of 576 criminal cases related to trade secret infringements in key sectors, Li Jiantao, director of the intellectual property crime investigation bureau of the MPS, said at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office. During the period, authorities dealt with approximately 156,000 criminal cases involving intellectual property violations and the manufacture or sale of counterfeit goods, Li added. 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 Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A New York police chief has been temporarily suspended from duty after a viral video appeared to show his girlfriend getting into a bloody brawl with a teenage neighbor on their porch. Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski was placed on administrative leave on Monday pending a review, following an altercation on Saturday, Mayor Jared Kraham stated in a recent announcement. Kraham said that the woman in the video, who was identified by WSKG as Susan Rice, was Zikusks girlfriend. She is neither employed by the city nor affiliated with it in any official capacity, the mayor said. A video of the altercation went viral after it was posted to Facebook by a woman who identified herself as the mother of the 16-year-old resident who, along with his 18-year-old friend, was allegedly attacked by Rice. open image in gallery Susan Rice was arrested and charged following the altercation in Johnson City on Friday ( Facebook/Kristina Montgomery ) Go in the crib, the two boys said repeatedly, with one filming the incident. This is my estate. I dont care, Rice said. We are the police. We are the police... Yeah, what do you do? Section 8? After briefly heading toward her porch near Zikuski, who was off duty at the time, Rice appeared to lose her temper and stormed onto her neighbors property. Zikuski attempted to follow closely behind as Rice ran up the stairs and appeared to strike one of the boys after he taunted her, saying, Touch me. open image in gallery Rice hurtled up the neighbor's porch before she appeared to attack one of the teens ( Facebook/Kristina Montgomery ) One of the teens appeared to hit Rice back, causing her to drop to the floor and leaving her white shirt splattered in blood. Get her off my porch, one of the boys said, as Zikuski attempted to pick Rice up off the floor. It was not immediately clear what sparked the argument. The mother of the teen resident said that she pressed charges on Friday, yet still aint been arrested!, she alleged on Facebook. Im tired of these privileged a** people acting like they cant do no wrong, the woman added. Well, well, Susan, you have met your MF match!!! Rice was arrested by officials from the Johnson City Police Department on Monday and charged with endangering the welfare of a child, harassment, and trespass in the second degree. open image in gallery Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski was placed on adminstrative leave earlier this week ( AFP/Getty ) She was released with an appearance ticket, requiring her to appear at court at a future date. Before her arrest, Mayor Kraham said that he was concerned by Rices comments in the video. Im troubled by her language and the implication that she is in any way above the law because of a personal association with a member of law enforcement, he said. Zikuski had been Binghamtons police chief since 2008. WSKG said he was placed on administrative leave for over three months in 2015 over an allegation of sexual harassment, and returned when the complaint was dropped. City of Binghamton Assistant Police Chief John Ryan will serve as acting chief in Zikuski's absence. The Independent has contacted the Binghamton Police Department and the Johnson City Police Department for more information. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A defense attorney previously involved in the high-profile trial of the Atlanta-based accused criminal street gang and rap group YSL now faces criminal charges herself. Nicole Fegan was indicted on multiple charges on Monday, which include allegations that she tipped off a fugitive and gang member about getting rid of evidence. Fegan was part of the historic trial that took place in December 2023, in which several members of YSL were charged with conspiracy to violate Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). Rapper Young Thug was painted by prosecutors as the leader of the criminal gang, which was responsible for multiple violent crimes, including murders, shootings and carjackings. It was claimed that some of the groups lyrics were related to crimes they are accused of committing, sparking controversy over free speech protections. open image in gallery A defense attorney previously involved in the high-profile trial of Atlanta-based accused criminal street gang and rap group YSL now faces criminal charges herself. The case was tried in Fulton County and began in 2023 ( Getty Images ) All 28 people who were charged were ultimately acquitted of murder charges in the case. In October 2024, Young Thug pleaded guilty to gang, drug and gun charges and was released from jail after his sentence was commuted to time already served. The charges against the rapper and YSL were brought under the state's Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, the same act that Fegan is now being charged under. The indictment against her, obtained by WSBTV, alleges Fegan unlawfully solicited a fugitive in a gang murder case to commit criminal gang activity through the commission of the offense of tampering with evidence. According to the outlet, the lawyer is accused of unlawfully soliciting a gang member to get rid of his phone with the intent to obstruct the prosecution of another person. open image in gallery In the historic trial, Rapper Young Thug was painted by prosecutors as the leader of the criminal gang, which was accused of multiple violent crimes, including murders, shootings and carjackings ( 2022 Atlanta Journal Constitution ) Along with another person, she is also accused of obtaining and giving an inmate of Fulton County Jail, Tenquarious Mender, contraband items. Fegan previously served as Menders defense lawyer, the documents showed. In a statement shared with WSBTV, the lawyers lawyer, Drew Findling, described the indictment as a travesty. Nicole Fegan is a fierce trial attorney and well-respected amongst her peers, the statement said. These charges stem from activities alleged to have occurred 2 and a half years ago during the YSL trial for which Ms. Fegan was a zealous advocate for her client, no more. We look forward to fighting these false allegations. This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows a scene during the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 in north China's Tianjin. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) An attendee of the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 visits a calligraphy exhibition in north China's Tianjin, July 23, 2025. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Attendees of the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 visit a sculpture exhibition in north China's Tianjin, July 23, 2025. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) Attendees of the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 learn to dye a traditional Chinese fan with floating lacquer during an exhibition of intangible cultural heritages in north China's Tianjin, July 23, 2025. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) People attend the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Countries 2025 in north China's Tianjin, July 23, 2025. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) The "Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Youth in Action: Tianjin Initiative for Upholding the Diversity of Civilizations" is released during the Inter-Civilizational Dialogue Among SCO Countries 2025 in north China's Tianjin, July 23, 2025. The event attracted some 300 participants from home and abroad. Sideline events including a calligraphy exhibition, a sculpture exhibition, and an intangible heritage exhibition were also held during the dialogue. (Xinhua/Li Ran) The setting remains Copenhagen, but its now 2040 and the Danish capital is suffering through an energy crisis and constant surveillance; residents get a monthly allotment of power, but its barely enough unless you can pay for more. The how and why is unclear, but the political chaos is obvious: nationalism and political violence is boiling over amidst an election. Hollywood put out a diligent, tidied-up movie adaptation in 1997, with Danish filmmaker Pelle August directing Julia Ormond in the title role, but Hoegs prose, fluid and evocative, allows for no shortage of interpretations. Hence, this European co-production, a six-part existential thriller that takes more than enough liberties with the source material to sit distinctly aside from the feature film and, sometimes, even the book. A smidgeon of science-fiction, a mass of the metaphysical, Smillas Sense of Snow is a curious reinvention. Its hard to overstate the impact Danish novelist Peter Hoeg had in 1992 with his literary thriller Miss Smillas Feeling for Snow . A crime mystery about an alienated Copenhagen woman whos convinced her neighbour, a young Greenlandic boy, died under suspicious circumstances, it spent months on the bestseller lists and was Time s Book of the Year. Hoeg unfolded a fantastical conspiracy and a sly reckoning with his homelands colonial past. It was a groundbreaking book, attuned to todays social and political currents. For Smilla Jaspersen (Filippa Coster-Waldau), its a matter of little consequence the former climate activist lives alone, aligning with her late mothers Inuit heritage over her privileged fathers Danish outlook. She uses Europeans as a pejorative phrase. Created by the British filmmaker Amma Asante (Belle) and the British writer Clive Bradley (Trapped), the show is focused on examining truths rather than teasing them out. Smillas bond with Isaiah (Silver Wolfe), who has come to Copenhagen with his bereft Greenlandic mother after his fathers death, is sketched out quickly, in the shadow of the solemn little boys death after he falls from a rooftop. Smilla, who also grew up in Greenland, can tell from the footprints on the apartment buildings roof that something was awry. The swift declaration of an accidental death by the authorities makes her start digging. Henry Lloyd-Hughes as plotting tech mogul Karsten Tork. The narrative is quick to show us that something is amiss, and that the stakes involved have compromised many. Smilla and Isaiahs neighbour, Tunisian political refugee Rahid Youseffi (Elyas MBarek), quickly goes from helping the boy to spying on Smilla as she starts to reveal information. The schemes that connect Isaiahs past in Greenland to the energy crisis and the election are desperate and often crude. We only have 30 good years left, one plotter, tech mogul Caspen Tork (Henry Lloyd-Hughes), tells the government minister he soon ensnares, Katja Claussen (Amanda Collin). What comes to the fore is Smillas anguish. Investigating Isaiahs death reawakens her memories of Greenland, tapping into a mystical state that folds together historic visions and contemporary dream states. As with the last season of True Detective, Smillas Sense of Snow looks at crime through the lens of Indigenous communities and their connection to the land that was long ago taken from them. Second, during the following summer, a longer-than-ever Bonney Upwelling the natural phenomenon in South Australia that brings up nutrient-rich water from deep water to the surface was recorded. Loading Finally, the ongoing marine heatwave means the waters around South Australia have been 2.5 degrees hotter than usual since last year. That allowed the algae, that was always there, to explode in its volume, Malinauskus told reporters on Tuesday. It is reasonable to assume that we will see other events of this nature elsewhere in the country and other parts of the world. Could it happen on Sydney or Melbourne coastlines? Murray said this was not only possible but quite likely, given it has already happened in the eastern states on a smaller scale. Murray said there had been previous outbreaks of Karenia mikimotoi and other algae deadly to marine life in NSW and Victoria. Harmful algal blooms that affected fishing and aquaculture by making fish unsafe to eat, rather than killing them, were also common. In terms of water column conditions and how similar it would be on the [east] coast, we have upwelling events ... weve had marine heatwaves, weve had all of those things, Murray said. Loading Can anything be done to fix the algal bloom? The SA government has said nothing can be done naturally to dilute or dissipate the bloom. Murray said Korea and Japan had decades of experience dealing with harmful algal blooms affecting aquaculture facilities, and had researched several strategies, including sprinkling clay into the water to sink the algae. But this had not been studied in the Australian environment. We simply dont have any data to back up whether any of those methods would work, and most importantly, whether or not they would actually cause additional damage to the marine environment, she said. How is it harmful to marine life? Karenia mikimotoi has choked ecosystems of oxygen, killing everything from bivalves, worms and cuttlefish to sharks, rays and dolphins. Its similar in effect to a cyclone underwater, Murray said. Marine scientist Janine Baker said there would be long-term and widespread environmental, social and economic impacts. Its dreadful Ive never seen anything like this in the 35 years Ive been working in the marine environment, Baker said. What concerns me is that because there are so many vacant niches now, it will promote the settlement of opportunistic and potentially invasive species. She said there were already introduced species from overseas and eastern Australia and the problem was increasing with warming southern oceans. Why wont the federal government declare it a national disaster? Federal Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt has said the Commonwealth Natural Disaster Framework was designed for events such as bushfires and cyclones, and the algal bloom did not fit the bill. He argued the point of declaring a natural disaster was to unlock funding, and this was moot because he obtained $14 million in federal assistance anyway. Federal Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt at West Beach in Adelaide on Monday. Credit: AAPIMAGE Dr Scott Bennett from University of Tasmanias Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies said the government should treat the bloom as a natural disaster. The federal government needs to not treat this as an isolated event or a localised event this is symptomatic of a broader national issue, Bennett said. Were seeing more intense and more frequent marine heatwaves occurring around the country. What scientific research needs to happen? Loading The SA government said the $28 million package will include beach clean-up, assistance for affected businesses, and $13.5 million earmarked for science and monitoring. That includes $8.5 million for a coastal monitoring network, $3 million for rapid assessment of fish stocks using remote underwater video surveys and dive surveys, and $2 million for a new national testing laboratory in South Australia for harmful algal bloom and brevetoxin/biotoxin testing. (At present, samples are sent to New Zealand for analysis.) The catastrophe is affecting the Great Southern Reef, a rocky reef rich in biodiversity that extends from NSW, around the southern side of the continent and up the coast of Western Australia. Advertisement Eating outGood Food Guide Calling all applicants for the Good Food Guides Young Chef of the Year Applications are now open for the prestigious award, with $10,000 worth of prizes and the opportunity to cook at a special event dinner. Good Food Guide Editors July 23, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Apply now Promising young chefs in Victoria, NSW and the ACT this is your moment. Young Chef of the Year presented by Smeg, awarded by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guides, is now open for applications from the next generation of cooking talent. Saavni Krishnan, Melbournes Young Chef of the Year in 2024. Simon Schluter Previous winners include influential Australian chefs Phil Wood, Brett Graham, Lauren Eldridge and Andrew McConnell. The next Young Chef of the Year recipients will be named at the Good Food Guide Awards in Sydney and Melbourne in October, and prizes include $10,000 worth of Smeg appliances of the winners choice, plus professional mentoring. Finalists will also be invited to cook at special Young Chef of the Year showcase dinners in Sydney and Melbourne. Advertisement In 2024, Rockpool Bar and Grill sous-chef Luke Bourke took home the award for The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. Meanwhile, The Age crowned Saavni Krishnan sous-chef at Mauritian-influenced wine bar Manze its winner. Young Chef of the Year winner Luke Bourke in the Rockpool Bar and Grill kitchen. Steven Siewert Bourke is now leading the kitchen team at Felons Seafood in Manly. Krishnan was invited to turn her pop-up series, Saadi,into a winter residency at Sunda, and has departed Manze to focus on Saadi full-time. To apply, chefs must be under 30 years old; a permanent Australian resident; and based in Victoria, NSW or the ACT. The industry judging panel and Good Food Guide editors are looking for chefs who: are fantastic cooks; have a social conscience; work to better the community; lift up their fellow chefs; and are keenly interested in learning and improving. Advertisement The Young Chef of the Year dinners will not be part of the judging process. The award is open to chefs working in any section of the kitchen, but they must not be an executive chef or the owner of a restaurant. (Applications from head chefs are accepted if there is also an executive chef in the kitchen.) The first step is completing an online application before August 24. Finalists will appear in front of a panel of industry leaders and a representative from the Good Food Guide for a face-to-face interview on September 1 in Sydney and September 9 in Melbourne. Access the application form. Questions? Email goodfoodguide@nine.com.au Related Article A $10,000 opportunity for young guns of restaurant service launches Advertisement Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Opulent stores filled with cashmere suits, silk scarves and soft leather handbags are making room for the hard stuff on Australias most prestigious shopping strips. Watches costing hundreds of thousands of dollars, made from gold, titanium, diamonds and stainless steel are filling temples to timepieces opening across the country. This week, the Franck Muller boutique on Sydneys Castlereagh Street opens its heavy doors, opposite Chanels new fine jewellery and watches flagship in Sydney. Japanese brand Grand Seiko officially opened in Melbournes historic Block Arcade last month, Vacheron Constantin reopened on Collins Street in March, and Rolexs largest boutique in the Southern Hemisphere started trading in December at Chadstone Shopping Centre. Nationals MP Michael McCormack says he has not spoken to the leader of his party since speaking out against the Coalitions net zero goal and appearing to undermine his superior. McCormack lent his support to a private members bill by fellow MP and former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce that seeks to scrap net zero commitments. Joyce is an internal rival of Nationals leader David Littleproud. Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack last year. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Asked about his leaders reaction to this on Sky News, McCormack said: Ive not spoken to David. Ive been busy enough. Ive been busy talking to locals, hearing their concerns, looking them in the eye and seeing their anguish and concern. Being in Parliament House, it does restrict you because theres a lot of things to do but no, Ive not spoken to David. McCormack said on Wednesday he was not undermining Littleprouds leadership. Littleproud has said getting to net zero by 2050 is impossible. Yarra councillor Stephen Jolly was riding high last December. The longtime left-wing councillor had just been elected mayor after his Yarra For All alliance stormed to a commanding position in council elections, reducing the Greens to just two councillors in their former stronghold. Thats got to hurt. Basking in the glow of victory, the Jolly band of independent councillors decided to release a newsletter announcing their grand plans. Yarra Mayor Stephen Jolly Credit: Justin McManus Pegged as a means to keep constituents regularly informed, the pamphlet flagged changes within the council, including two pedestrian crossings that would be permanently lit and a bike lane on Elizabeth Street in North Richmond that would be altered. But alarm bells rang immediately, and Yarra Council chief executive Sue Wilkinson fired off an email headlined We need to talk about this urgently, internal communications recently revealed through freedom of information laws, and seen by CBD, show. KABUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued visas to nearly 250,000 foreign nationals from 176 countries and regions over the past 12 months, reflecting a significant rise in international engagement, according to official data released on Wednesday. "In the past year, we issued nearly 250,000 visas to foreign nationals from 176 countries, marking a 60 percent increase compared to previous years," said Mohammad Shoaib Baryali, director of consular affairs at the ministry, during a government accountability program. Senior officials from 13 countries and representatives from various international organizations traveled to Afghanistan during the cited period, said Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi. Since resuming power in August 2021, the Afghan interim government has been working to build and expand diplomatic relations with the international community. A technical review of the Fitzroy River Olympic rowing venue is about to begin, Premier David Crisafulli announced as he visited the planned Rockhampton venue to mark seven years to the day until the start of the Brisbane 2032 Games. Crisafulli said the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority would conduct the review, which would start immediately. But, ultimately, World Rowing would decide whether the Fitzroy was an appropriate venue for Olympic competition. Rowing on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton. Credit: Rockhampton Regional Council Professor David Hamilton, the director of Griffith Universitys Australian Rivers Institute, said the Fitzroy posed legitimate concerns for competition integrity. Racist graffiti has been smeared on the front of two Asian-operated restaurants and a Hindu temple in Melbournes east. A Chinese restaurant, a Thai restaurant and the Shree Swaminarayan temple, all in the outer suburb of Boronia, were discovered defaced with hateful slurs on Monday morning. Graham Tran, owner of Kingsland Chinese restaurant. Credit: Jason South The restaurants were vandalised in red paint with the words go home, along with offensive language. Police say racist graffiti was also spray-painted on the front of a healing centre on the Mountain Highway that night. They believe the four incidents are linked. Loading Police Association of Victoria chief executive Wayne Gatt said hiring security guards may be a practical interim solution for some councils, but he wanted to see improvements to police resourcing. The fact is that areas of high crime or where large groups of people commonly gather, were once areas of high police visibility via patrols, but due to capacity issues for Victoria Police, theyve become areas where crime now flourishes, Gatt said. Decades ago, we had less police but also less need for councils to employ security guards. This is grounded in the competing demands and poor and inefficient work practices currently faced by our members. A state government spokeswoman said an extra 60 police officers had been placed in the CBD and 144 officers had been sent to the west division, including Maribyrnong and Wyndham. Weve also increased stop and search powers for Victoria Police to seize more weapons off our streets, and the possession ban on machetes kicks in on September 1, she said. Victoria Police declined to comment. Maribyrnong made the private security move after Footscray traders undertook their own one-month trial hiring security guards, with the suburb experiencing a 26 per cent increase in crime since 2024. The results led more than 20 business owners to advocate for the council to fund a security presence. The consensus from local traders ... was that the safety issues in Footscray are at their worst level for as long as anyone can remember, and there was a request that something needs to be done urgently to address it, council documents show. Council papers show that short-term interventions and police operations have not made an ongoing difference to antisocial behaviour in central Footscray, and regular daily and weekly police patrols could not be guaranteed. Councillors on Tuesday night agreed that the situation in Footscray was grave enough to warrant trying a security guard program but, after receiving a series of disapproving public questions, they clashed over the extent of community consultation and the need for officers to have experience working with vulnerable people. Councillor Bernadette Thomas successfully moved an alternative motion that included a health approach. She was concerned that the proposal had not been put to the broader community and she opposed a heavy-handed, security-first strategy. We wouldnt be, hopefully, engaging security that typically does nightclubs, Thomas said. Loading Theres a clear distinction between turfing people out of a space because the owner of that space doesnt want them there, versus working in a space where theres a lot of vulnerable people. It requires a really sensitive approach. Mayor Pradeep Tiwari disputed that community had not been heard and said he did not want to impede the schemes introduction, saying it would complement the work of outreach services. The proposed security patrols intend to complement these efforts with a non-enforcement, visible safety presence, particularly during peak periods, Tiwari said. The proposal is not about a policing operation and its not about targeting any one group. Its about creating a safe, welcoming environment for all, especially for families, workers and vulnerable residents. Loading Caitlin Caruana, director of community legal centre Westjustice, said while she was concerned by the rise in antisocial behaviour and rough sleeping in Footscray, she was very disappointed in the councils decision. Security guards address the wrong end of the problem and are yet to show any real impact on community safety in other council areas, Caruana said. [They] have no more power than the average citizen ... For the same price as the security guard roll-out, Maribyrnong could have invested in a properly trained social worker or other services that can help people to address their offending behaviour in a meaningful way. Security guard patrols are also increasingly being paid for by private operators, such as at housing estates in Melbournes outer suburbs and schools. Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece, who spearheaded the CBDs security guard scheme after promising the trial during his election campaign last year, said it was the biggest shift in on-street safety in Victoria since protective services officers were introduced 13 years ago. He said the security officers would work in partnership with police. These officers will have the training and equipment to enable them to address a range of issues on our streets to help the city look and feel safer, Reece said. Theyll also be trained to support vulnerable community members, including people experiencing homelessness and those affected by drug and alcohol issues. Australian taxpayers will have to fork out more than $500 million towards cleaning up a Chevron oil field off the WA coast. In May, Chevron ended around 60 years of oil production on the operation that has run alongside its Gorgon gas project on Barrow Island off the Pilbara coast. It has begun dismantling the 800-plus wells and connecting pipelines spread over the Class A nature reserve. As well as an ageing oil operation, Barrow Island is home to Chevrons massive Gorgon liquefied natural gas plant fed by offshore fields. Credit: Bloomberg Chevron and partners ExxonMobil and Santos have shipped 335 million barrels of oil and paid about $1 billion in royalties to the federal and WA governments. But the royalty agreement requires governments to refund royalties equal to 40 per cent of clean-up costs in the four years after production ends. That means the higher the clean-up cost is, the more the governments must pay back. High-end luxury brand Louis Vuitton has confirmed that Australian customers were caught up in a data breach, with personal information including birthdates, contact details, purchase history and preference data stolen by hackers. Affected customers were informed via email on Monday, with the company revealing it became aware of a breach some three weeks earlier, on July 2. We regret to inform you that an unauthorised third party temporarily accessed our system and obtained some of your information, the email reads. High-end luxury brand Louis Vuitton has confirmed that Australian customers have been caught up in a data breach. Credit: Bloomberg We would like to reassure you that no password nor financial information such as credit card information, bank details or other financial accounts was contained in the database accessed. Advertisement InspirationCalifornia I spent a day trying Disneylands oldest, politically corrected rides Julie Miller July 23, 2025 5:00am Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Well, that descended into chaos unexpectedly. In Disneyland, a jolly ride through the streets of London becomes increasingly foreboding, as I in the guise of the titular Mr Toad receive warnings from cut-out bobbies to slow down then find myself careening through a public house and court of law before my ultimate demise at the hands of an oncoming train. Suddenly, I or rather, Mr Toad am in literal hell a dark warning, it seems, about the perils of driving recklessly. Disneylands 70 year celebrations are under way. Such is the rather trippy narrative of Mr Toads Wild Ride, one of 10 still operating in Disneyland today that were here 70 years ago when the park first opened its gates. On July 17, 1955, creator Walt Disney opened the 65-hectare Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, to an invited audience with a dedication that it would be a source of joy and inspiration to the world. It opened to the public the following day. Costing about $US17 million at the time to build, it featured five themed lands (Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Frontierland and Main Street, USA) with 20 major attractions, rides, shows and exhibits including stagecoach and pack mule rides, an Indian village and a moon rocket simulation. Advertisement Seven decades and approaching 1 billion visitors later, Disneyland Resort now encompasses two parks (Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park) across 200 hectares, with 17 themed lands, three hotels and the Downtown Disney shopping precinct. Most visitors come for at least three days to take in all the entertainment, with the surrounding Anaheim area offering 30,000 hotel rooms to cater to the masses. Inside Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxys Edge the fastest spaceship in the galaxy. Yes, Disneyland is a business beyond even Walts wildest dreams: and as it celebrates this significant birthday, the Happiest Place on Earth is throwing a party, with confectionary-hued decorations, an earworm celebratory song courtesy of boy band Jonas Brothers, and a slew of new parades and light extravaganzas that are truly a joy to behold. Meanwhile, visitors can expect to wait for more than an hour to ride some of Disneylands most whizz-bang rides, with relative newcomers including Guardians of the Galaxy, the Incredicoaster and the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run among the most popular. Like many adults who visit without children, Ive tended to focus on the rides offering the greatest thrills and the most screams (as well as the longest queues), avoiding the cutesy rides and attractions of Fantasyland, dismissed as kids stuff. Advertisement Leave the spinning things to the kids the iconic tea cups of the Mad Tea Party ride. Bloomberg via Getty Images But, having tasked myself with checking out the original Disneyland rides, I now find myself standing before one of its most iconic attractions, the spinning tea cups of the Mad Tea Party. Under jaunty hanging lanterns, the oversized pastel cups and saucers bearing playing card insignias spin frantically, as brave, green-faced parents clutch giggling toddlers to their chests. Shuddering, I realise Im about to fail my mission before it even begins. No way am I risking my lunch on that give me a looping rollercoaster any day. Ditto the beautiful King Arthur Carrousel, with its 68 hand-carved bobbing horses dating back more than 90 years (making it technically the oldest ride in the park) Ill leave the spinning things to the little kids. Celebrating the happiest place on earth. Instead, I head to the towering faux-brick turret housing one of three original dark rides in Disneyland Snow Whites Enchanted Wish. Like most of the original rides, this one has undergone several incarnations since 1955; originally entitled Snow Whites Adventures and minus the actual visage of the original Disney princess (the riders themselves were meant to be Snow White, escaping the clutches of the evil queen), it was renamed in 1983 as Snow Whites Scary Adventure, adding spooky elements and jump scares. Advertisement In 2021, however, more new visuals, animatronics and laser projections were added, which, along with the new name, give the ride a cheerier, more family-friendly and dare I say bland tone. Far more thrilling to both children and adults (in my opinion) is Peter Pans Flight, following the adventures of JM Barries Lost Boys as they interact with fairies, pirates, mermaids and crocodiles. Boarding an ornate flying sailboat, riders soar over London and Neverland, the twisting journey over stunning neon visuals creating a real sense of magic and wonder. In 2024, it was announced that Peter Pans Flight was to be updated to correct racial stereotypes of Tiger Lily and her Native American family in the ride, following a similar change last August in Disney Worlds version of the ride. Adventureland and The Jungle Cruise. Another original Disneyland attraction that has recently been politically corrected to remove what was described as negative depictions of native peoples is the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland. Advertisement I board the river boat at night, just before the fireworks and with no queues to contend with; and while the skippers commentary is muffled due to a microphone problem (which negates the whole point of the ride really, since its all about the dad jokes), I find the animatronic animals en route rather charming, especially the elephants and the chest-thumping gorillas. The war party of natives and tribal dancers of old are certainly not missed, with a storyline that is now more inclusive and less racially insensitive. Opening day in 1955 did not go off without a hitch, by all accounts. The Mark Twain Steamboat (now Riverboat) was so overcrowded it got stuck in the mud; while Casey Jnr Circus Train primed as the parks first roller coaster was immediately closed for safety reasons. It started carrying guests in its more gentle form two weeks later, with the Matterhorn Bobsleds (currently under restoration) becoming the first official roller coaster in 1959. Dumbo the Flying Elephant was also supposed to be an opening day attraction, but due to design issues (the grey elephants were too heavy), it launched a month later on August 16, 1955. Another ride that has recently been adapted to incorporate more modern sensibilities is Tianas Bayou Adventure aka, the old Splash Mountain, which I was surprised to discover was not an original Disney ride, but in fact opened in 1989. Tianas Bayou Adventure the old Splash Mountain. The log flumes themes inspired by Uncle Remus stories and the 1946 Disney film Song of the South had always seemed problematic, leading me to believe it had been conceived in less enlightened times; but the reimagining based around the 2009 animation Princess and the Frog is a refreshing, fun adaptation, with nighttime scenes from a bayou, Mardis Gras celebrations, a New Orleans jazz soundtrack and an unbelievable soaking, especially if youre the sucker in the front seat. Advertisement Walt Disney once said that Disneyland will never be completed, as long as there is imagination left in the world. While there will always be a buzz and excitement about new, technologically-advanced attractions, the vestiges of Disneys original vision albeit updated to accommodate more magic as well as contemporary ways of thinking have an important and nostalgic place in the granddaddy of all theme parks. The originals The 10 original rides at Disneyland still operating today are: Mad Tea Party King Arthurs Carrousel Mr Toads Wild Ride Snow Whites Enchanted Wish Peter Pans Flight Storybookland Canal Boats Jungle Cruise Autopia Mark Twain Riverboat Disneyland Railroad The details Advertisement Visit Disneyland Resorts 70th Celebration began on May 16 and will continue throughout the US summer. Tickets from $US100 ($153) a day for a four-day, one-park a day ticket, or from $US120 ($185) a day with a three-day, one-park a day ticket, valid to August 14, 2025. See disneyland.disney.go.com Stay Disneyland Resort has three on-property hotels Disneyland Hotel, Disneys Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Pixar Place Hotel. See disneyland.disney.go.com Fly Delta Airlines flies daily from Sydney to Los Angeles; direct daily flights from Melbourne to Los Angeles will launch in December 2025. See delta.com The writer travelled as a guest of Disneyland Resort. Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now. Traveller Guides Sailors encountering orcas in British waters have been warned to switch off their engines and lower their sails or risk being rammed after the animals targeted a yacht in Spain. Two sailors were saved by the Spanish coastguard after their vessel, Azurea, was targeted by the orcas off the coast of the Basque country on Monday afternoon. Orcas off Sydneys northern beaches. A group of 15 orcas is believed to be responsible for ramming small boats in Spain. Credit: Whale Watching Sydney The French yacht was rammed about 2pm local time, two nautical miles from the Basque coastal town of Deba in northern Spain. The coastguard rescued the pair, one of whom was aged 60, after they sent out a mayday distress call. Both were taken safe and sound to the port of Getaria. Rescuers said such incidents were uncommon so far north in the Atlantic. Mercury Insurance Provides a Checklist to Make Sure You're Prepared LOS ANGELES, July 22, 2025 -- We are approaching that time of year when college students head back to class. Whether you are a parent driving your student to school, or you are driving yourself, it is important to have your vehicle checked before setting off to campus. With that in mind, Mercury Insurance offers a comprehensive checklist of items on your car or truck before setting off for the upcoming schoolyear. "It is important to make necessary vehicle repairs prior to any major road trip," said Justin Yoshizawa, Product Management for Mercury Insurance. "Heading to college qualifies as such." Here are some recommendations for getting to school safely with your car in tip top shape: Get a full inspection: Have a mechanic check belts, brakes, shocks, the cooling and transmission systems, and change the oil to avoid breakdowns. Have a mechanic check belts, brakes, shocks, the cooling and transmission systems, and change the oil to avoid breakdowns. Check fluids: Ensure engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid are at the correct levels. Not doing so can lead to major problems with your engine that can lead to becoming stranded or worse. Ensure engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid are at the correct levels. Not doing so can lead to major problems with your engine that can lead to becoming stranded or worse. Tire maintenance: Check tire pressure and tread wear, including the spare tire. Overinflated or underinflated tires and blowouts can be very dangerous, and hot weather can make this even more necessary to address. Check tire pressure and tread wear, including the spare tire. Overinflated or underinflated tires and blowouts can be very dangerous, and hot weather can make this even more necessary to address. Battery check: If the battery is over three years old, have it tested and potentially replaced to avoid difficulty in starting your vehicle and becoming stranded. If the battery is over three years old, have it tested and potentially replaced to avoid difficulty in starting your vehicle and becoming stranded. Replace air filter: Failure to replace your air filter can lead to reduced engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency and even potential engine damage. Failure to replace your air filter can lead to reduced engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency and even potential engine damage. Address any necessary repairs: Fix any dents, window damage, or bumper issues before heading to campus. Minor problems can easily become major problems on a long road trip. "Whether you are traveling 100 miles or 1,000 miles, it pays to add vehicle preparedness to your back-to-school checklist," stated Yoshizawa. Adding a vehicle inspection to your completed items prior to heading for your college destination can prevent road hazards and costly repairs. About Mercury Insurance Mercury Insurance is a multiple-line insurance carrier predominantly offering personal auto, homeowners, renters and commercial insurance 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 writes other lines of insurance in various states, including commercial, business owners and business auto, landlord, home-sharing, ride-hailing and mechanical protection insurance. Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value for their insurance dollar by pairing ultra-competitive rates with excellent customer service, through more than 4,200 employees and a network of more than 6,340 independent agents in 11 states. Mercury has earned an "A" rating from A.M. Best, 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 Insurance BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- China's national observatory issued a yellow alert for rainstorms on Wednesday evening, warning of downpours in some regions across the country. From 8:00 p.m. Wednesday to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, heavy rain and rainstorms are forecast to hit parts of Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Hebei, Tianjin, Beijing, Henan, Shandong, Sichuan, Chongqing, Guizhou, Yunnan, Guangxi, Hainan, Qinghai and Heilongjiang, the National Meteorological Center said. Parts of Inner Mongolia, Hebei and Sichuan are expected to experience torrential rain, with precipitation up to 200 mm, the center added. Some of the aforementioned regions may experience short-term heavy rainfall, with hourly precipitation exceeding 70 mm, accompanied by thunderstorms and gales. The center has advised local authorities to take precautions for heavy rainstorms, and suggested that necessary drainage measures should be taken in urban areas and across farmlands. China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue. Tickets On Sale Now for Attendees to Experience the Future of Car Culture at LA's Most Iconic Automotive Event LOS ANGELES, July 22, 2025 -- Tickets are now available for the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show , returning to the Los Angeles Convention Center from November 21 to 30, 2025. As one of the most influential automotive events in the world, LA Auto Show is where car culture, automaker innovations, and hands-on-wheels experiences has come together in one unrivaled destination for over a century. Savvy shoppers and enthusiasts alike are invited to explore hundreds of the latest cars, trucks, SUVs, and EVs from top automakers all in one location. From gas-powered favorites to the newest electric vehicles, the show gives visitors the chance to touch, feel, and compare the latest models in a fun and immersive, no-pressure environment. Whether you're researching your next ride or just soaking in the eye candy, the LA Auto Show annually offers something that no other event can match. "LA Auto Show continues to lead the industry by creating a space where the future of mobility and the culture of driving come together in one location unlike anywhere else on earth," said Terri Toennies, President of the Los Angeles Auto Show. "This year, we're making it easier than ever to attend with lower ticket prices and more experiences designed to welcome everyone who loves cars, culture, and innovation." This year's show introduces new attractions along with the return of fan-favorite experiences. Expanded test drives, immersive exhibits, and breakthrough technology showcases are just a few of the ways the show brings LA's rich automotive culture to life. NEW AND FEATURED EXPERIENCES INCLUDE: Creator Studio - A first-of-its-kind platform that highlights the next wave of car culture through storytelling, original content, and custom collaborations with top creators. - A first-of-its-kind platform that highlights the next wave of car culture through storytelling, original content, and custom collaborations with top creators. The Underground - A reimagined space that celebrates grassroots expression and the people and communities driving the future of custom car culture. - A reimagined space that celebrates grassroots expression and the people and communities driving the future of custom car culture. Showcase Hall - One of the most popular spots at the show returns with a stunning collection of customs, exotics, muscle cars, lowriders, retrofits, and more. - One of the most popular spots at the show returns with a stunning collection of customs, exotics, muscle cars, lowriders, retrofits, and more. The SPARQ Experience - SPARQ, the AI-powered automotive ecosystem that provides drivers with the ability to communicate directly with their cars is back with a bigger footprint. Continuing their focus on presenting leading automotive experiences, SPARQ invites car enthusiasts to dive into an interactive space that blends AI technology with the best of car culture - including your favorite movie cars, live commentary from community legends, and celebrities with an unrivaled automotive passion. - SPARQ, the AI-powered automotive ecosystem that provides drivers with the ability to communicate directly with their cars is back with a bigger footprint. Continuing their focus on presenting leading automotive experiences, SPARQ invites car enthusiasts to dive into an interactive space that blends AI technology with the best of car culture - including your favorite movie cars, live commentary from community legends, and celebrities with an unrivaled automotive passion. Clean Power Alliance Test Track, Street Test Drives and Indoor Rides - Get behind the wheel or step inside the newest EV, Gas and hybrids on a series of indoor and outdoor tracks designed for hands-on exploration. - Get behind the wheel or step inside the newest EV, Gas and hybrids on a series of indoor and outdoor tracks designed for hands-on exploration. Camp Jeep & Ford Bronco Built Wild Adventure Courses - Ride with a pro driver and experience real off-road capability across a thrilling obstacle course featuring the latest Jeep and Ford Bronco models showing off their unique capabilities. - Ride with a pro driver and experience real off-road capability across a thrilling obstacle course featuring the latest Jeep and Ford Bronco models showing off their unique capabilities. OVRland Outpost - Explore the booming world of overlanding, camping and off-road travel with curated rigs in partnership with OVR Magazine. - Explore the booming world of overlanding, camping and off-road travel with curated rigs in partnership with OVR Magazine. All Roads Stage - A hub for conversation, storytelling, and cultural connections centered around LA's love affair with cars, showcasing 10 local stories across the 10 days of the show. - A hub for conversation, storytelling, and cultural connections centered around LA's love affair with cars, showcasing 10 local stories across the 10 days of the show. VIP Guided Tours - Join an expert-led tour and get a deeper look into highlight areas of the show, designed for true automotive enthusiasts and curious kids alike. TICKET INFORMATION: Tickets are on sale now at laautoshow.com/tickets and include access to all exhibits and test drive experiences. Pricing is as follows: Opening Day Friday ( November 21st ): Adult $18 , Senior $8 , Child $8 ): Adult , Senior , Child Any Day General Admission Tickets: Adult $25 , Senior $12 , Child $12 , Senior , Child Monday to Thursday ( November 24-27 ): Adult $22 , Senior $10 , Child $10 ): Adult , Senior , Child VIP Priority Entry + Ticket on Saturdays and Sundays: Adult $45 , Senior $22 , Child $22 , Senior , Child Wednesday/Thursday Thanksgiving Family Four-Packs: $63 For the latest updates on vehicle debuts, special programming, and daily schedules, follow the LA Auto Show on Instagram , X , Facebook , or LinkedIn . You can also sign up for alerts at laautoshow.com. ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW & AUTOMOBILITY LA Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show is one of the most influential annual automotive events in the world. Held each year at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the show draws hundreds of thousands of attendees and brings hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impact to the city. It also remains the largest revenue driver for the LA Convention Center. AutoMobility LA the show's press and industry day takes place on November 20, 2025, and features a full day of vehicle debuts, brand announcements, and a thought leadership program highlighting some of the brightest voices in automotive and tech. The LA Auto Show opens to the public from November 21 through 30, 2025, including Thanksgiving Day, offering ten full days for car shoppers, enthusiasts, families, and future-focused fans to experience the very best in automotive design, culture, and innovation. For more information, visit laautoshow.com and automobilityla.com. NGET Program Phase 2 Will Focus on Enhancing Power Capabilities and Noise Reduction in Combat Vehicles INDIANAPOLIS, July 22, 2025 -- Allison Transmission, a global leader in commercial and defense vehicle propulsion solutions, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a multi-million contract by the Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) for the second phase of the Next Generation Electrified Transmission (NGET) program. This program follows NGET Phase 1 funding, which focused on design, development and testing of an electric hybrid sub-system. Phase 2 will focus on enhancing the eMachine and Inverter system to achieve flexible power modes, thereby reducing the noise and improving the capabilities of electrified vehicle fleets. "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Ground Vehicle Systems Center and on this vital project. The advancements in the eMachine and Inverter system will build on the success of Phase 1, bringing us one step closer to delivering propulsion systems that not only meet but exceed the performance and efficiency needs of modern armored combat vehicles," said Dana Pittard, Vice President of Defense Programs at Allison Transmission "This funding will enable us to push the boundaries of technology and provide our warfighters with the silent, efficient and powerful systems they need to succeed in the field." The NGET program is part of Allison's broader efforts to develop advanced propulsion solutions, such as the eGen Force, which was selected by American Rheinmetall (AR) for the XM30 program. This advanced transmission is also scalable to 75-ton tracked vehicles, making it a strong candidate for other tracked vehicle programs and future Main Battle Tank requirements. The eGen Force features a high-efficiency range pack that utilizes eight forward and three reverse gears to provide an efficient 12:1 ratio coverage and generate 220 kilowatts of electrical power. This electric hybrid system leverages the strengths of an internal combustion engine for extended range and high power demands while the electric motor enables silent mobility and significant reduction in thermal and acoustic signatures to enhance tactical operations with the intent to increase survivability. The eGen Force employs torque blending with engine power in high tractive effort scenarios and incorporates drive-by-wire technology, further boosting performance and efficiency while reducing fuel consumption compared to legacy systems. For more information about Allison Defense and eGen Force, visit the Allison Transmission Defense webpage. About Allison Transmission Allison Transmission is a leading designer and manufacturer of propulsion solutions for commercial and defense vehicles and the largest global manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty fully automatic transmissions that Improve the Way the World Works. Allison products are used in a wide variety of applications, including on-highway vehicles (distribution, refuse, construction, fire and emergency), buses (school, transit and coach), motorhomes, off-highway vehicles and equipment (energy, mining, construction and agriculture) and defense vehicles (tactical wheeled and tracked). Founded in 1915, the company is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. With a presence in more than 150 countries, Allison has regional headquarters in the Netherlands, China and Brazil, manufacturing facilities in the USA, Hungary and India, as well as global engineering resources, including electrification engineering centers in Indianapolis, Indiana, Auburn Hills, Michigan and London in the United Kingdom. Allison also has approximately 1,600 independent distributor and dealer locations worldwide. For more information, visit allisontransmission.com. 2026 Toyota Crown Nightshade Review by David Colman The great SUV, thats not an SUV! Thanks to the veil of shade, night has fallen on the Crown. Purists will delight in the visual transformation wrought by newly blacked-out trim. Since its introduction in 2024, the Crown has occupied a dysphoric slot in the Toyota lineup, somewhere between a sedan and a utility vehicle. Stylistic indecision has partly led to that optical confusion, with the Crown's lofty 5.8 inch ground clearance and 60.6 inch height seeming to indicate off-road capabilities, a notion supported by the availability of all wheel drive. However, the sedan's sloping roofline prevents use of an SUV-like liftgate door. Consequently, all goods and belongings are relegated to just 15 cubic feet of trunk storage. Flattening the rear bench seatbacks allows you to tote a limited number of longer items that protrude into the cabin. Lately, the cornerstone motto at Toyota is 'When in doubt, black it out." Diligently following that prescription, the Crown's Nightshade treatment includes 21 x 8J matte Black alloy rims fitted with 225/45R21 Michelin Primacy Tour A/S radials (TW540). These large diameter rims coupled with short 45 series tires visually drop the height of the Nightshade to near low rider specifications. In addition, all the busy trim bits have been dipped in dark: external badging, side door handles, front grill, and front door touch sensor plates. While the Crown is available in six different colors (including Black, of course), it's a perfect candidate for the new Crown shade called Storm Cloud. This distinctive gray graced our test vehicle and blended beautifully with the darkened trim. The hybrid Nightshade is efficiently propelled to a 7.2-second 0-60mph time and a standing start quarter mile time of 15.5 seconds @ 91mph by its internal combustion (IC) engine augmented by 3 front and rear electric motors. This hybrid combo results in a phenomenal 550+ mile range thanks to an EPA rating of 42MPG City, 41MPG Highway, and 42MPG Overall. So plan on saving $2,500 in fuel costs over five years compared to the average new vehicle. If the base model Crown's engine proves insufficiently quick, you can upgrade to a turbocharged IC motor supplemented by traction motors that will drop your 0-60mph elapsed time to 5.1 seconds. The non-turbo Nightshade I tested transmitted its power to all four wheels on demand, via a constant velocity transmission. If you opt for the turbo Crown, Toyota replaces the CVT with a proper 6-speed automatic gearbox. An extended Freeway romp of 120 miles revealed that Toyota's new Safety Sense 3.0 suite is perfectly attuned to the requirements of long-haul cruising. Once we achieved our preselected pace of 70mph, the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) did a yeoman job of keeping us percolating in the fast lane with just enough space (3 car lengths) to make us feel comfortable. Magnifying the assistance was Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), which relieved us of the burden of making constant course corrections. Only twice did the LTA require human intervention. The first occasion provided an Alert Notice on the instrument panel instructing us to take over manual steering duties through a confusingly striped construction zone. The second occasion required quick intervention on our part when the lane markings on a curve disappeared, causing the Crown to wander into an adjacent (and occupied) lane. So, exercise judicious but relaxed oversight, and let DRCC and LTA lighten your driving burden. We also benefited from the instant MPG readout, which showed us the Nightshade was returning 38.3 MPG for the duration of our two-hour-long run, during which our average speed was calculated at 60.0MPH. Toyota has notably enhanced the interior of the Nightshade. A fixed panoramic moon roof is standard on this model. Opening its automated cover bathes the Nightshade in Sunshine. We appreciated the long and wide door storage pockets, which cater to water bottle and soda-can storage. Less successful was the design of the glovebox, which was fitted with an interior shelf that prevented convenient insertion of the Owner's Manual, let alone anything else. Also, the center console receptacle is too small to hold much of substance, and fitted with a very un-Toyota-like lid that kept closing itself when you flipped it open. Thanks to the substantial grip of the 21-inch Michelin radials, the Nightshade generated a substantial amount of cornering grip. So much so, in fact, that the front seats lacked sufficient lateral grip to cope with the excellent adhesion provided by the suspension and tires. As the Crown picks up steam in its sophomore year of production, it has assumed a better-defined niche in the Toyota pecking order. With its reasonable base price of $48,765 and it's equally affordable delivered cost of $49,900; the Nightshade has defined a niche of its own that is designed to appeal to sedan buyers interested in a slick handling, good looking, exceptionally energy frugal mode of transportation that is not an SUV. 2026 TOYOTA CROWN NIGHTSHADE ENGINE: 2.5-liter inline-4, DOHC 16-valve + 3 AC Motors and Nickel Metal Hydride Battery pack HORSEPOWER: 236hp (Combined) TORQUE: N/A FUEL CONSUMPTION: 42MPG City/41MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $49,900 HYPES: Long Distance Cruising Champ GRIPES: Shortchanged Cabin Storage STAR RATING: 9 Stars out of 10 BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The High Energy Photon Source (HEPS), China's flagship synchrotron radiation facility, is set to begin trial operations by the end of 2025, according to the project team. A synchrotron radiation light source is a source of electromagnetic radiation usually produced by a storage ring. As one of the country's key scientific and technological infrastructure projects, the HEPS is expected to become a fourth-generation synchrotron radiation facility featuring the world's highest brightness and will serve as a research platform for material science, chemical engineering, biomedicine and other fields, said the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, main developer of the HEPS. It acts like a super-powered "X-ray microscope" to "see" the micro-world, the IHEP explained. Located in Beijing's suburban Huairou District, the HEPS venture has achieved significant construction milestones since breaking ground in 2019. The facility comprises several parts -- including accelerators, beamlines, end stations and support facilities. All 15 planned Phase I beamlines have generated lights, Pan Weimin, director of the HEPS project, told Xinhua on Wednesday. Once completed, the HEPS will ultimately accommodate up to 90 beamlines. Plans aim for 45 beamlines by 2030. The team is actively engaging with research institutes and industry to secure funding for continued beamline construction and gather critical experimental demands, said Pan. China now possesses all four generations of such sources with the first and fourth generations both located in Beijing, the second-generation based in Hefei in east China's Anhui Province and the third-generation in Shanghai. The HEPS, as China's first high-energy fourth-generation source, promises to revolutionize research in fields like solid-state batteries, high-temperature superconductors and drug discovery -- via its unparalleled brightness and coherence. The HEPS will leverage the experience gained from previous facilities and "focus on national strategic needs, industrial innovation and scientific frontiers," Pan said. BISHKEK, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The media and think tanks play a strategic role within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Kanatbek Aziz, director of the Research Institute of Geopolitics and Strategy of Kyrgyzstan, told Xinhua in a recent interview. "In a time of intensifying geopolitical turbulence ... the role and responsibility of media and think tanks within the SCO framework takes on strategic dimensions -- transcending information support," Aziz said. He said that media and think tanks within the SCO framework perform a dual function. First, they serve as relays -- broadcasting the Shanghai Spirit to national and international audiences and forming a coherent image of the SCO as a responsible global actor. Second, they serve as conceptual engines by generating new meanings, setting strategic directions, and providing intellectual guidance for integration processes. "Their responsibility is institutional: not only to support political messaging, but also to substantiate it with well-reasoned analysis rooted in civilizational codes, regional specificities and the principles of justice, sovereignty, balance of interests and collective security," the expert said. In today's fragmented information landscape, their task is not only to inform, but to generate trust, defend the SCO's narrative space from external distortion, and facilitate the emergence of a new model of multilateralism, he said. "The synergy between media and think tanks can provide the intellectual foundation for multipolar solidarity and transform the expert-informational dimension into a strategic pillar of the SCO's regional and global role," he said. Aziz will participate in the SCO Media and Think Tank Summit, which is held in the Chinese city of Zhengzhou, Henan province from July 23 to 27. He said the summit should be viewed not merely as a platform for exchanging opinions, but also as a potential starting point for building a new systemic architecture of cooperation between the media and analytical communities of SCO member states. Amid the growing fragmentation of the global information landscape and intensifying competition over narratives, "the creation of a common intellectual and media space within the SCO is a strategic imperative," the expert said. The expert believes that the summit may lay the groundwork for a new model of institutional interaction -- aimed at consolidating a unified discourse, coordinating strategic narratives, and integrating informational, educational and analytical tools. "These elements -- convergence, trust, multilateralism and civilizational connectivity -- form the institutional basis of the SCO as a subject of the emerging global configuration," Aziz said. App-based taxi drivers not to observe strike today Business Reporter : The app-based taxi drivers attached to Ola and Uber and Rapido have started charging fares as per their own terms from the passengers While a delegation of app-based taxi drivers were busy meeting government officers in Mumbai till late evening on Tuesday, many agitating drivers here in the city told The Hitavada that they will not observe the strike on Wednesday. The drivers said that the companies, against whom they were agitating, have accepted their main demand of hike in rates. In a video message, Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, President of the Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch, said the Ola, Uber and Rapido companies have agreed to pay desired rates to the cab drivers. However, there are still many other points which are not clear for which the discussion is still going. Apart from this, the company representatives have verbally agreed to pay the increased rates. But we want this in black and white, he highlighted. The cab drivers had launched the agitation on July 15 and observed bandh on July 18. After the one-day bandh, the drivers had suspended the strike and gave time to the Maharashtra government to respond to their demands. In the meanwhile, the app-based taxi drivers attached to Ola and Uber and Rapido have started charging fares as per their own terms from the passengers. The cab drivers had also threatened to observe an indefinite hunger strike from Wednesday in all parts of the State. Deepak Sane, one of the drivers, said the drivers have decided not to observe a strike on Wednesday. We have been told that the companies are ready to charge as per the Government approved rates. There are many other demands of the drivers. We will have to wait for it, he said. The cab drivers have been fighting for the past many days. On many occasions, they met the District Collector and other authorities but nothing had happened. However, on this occasion, app-based cab drivers across the State fought jointly. The drivers have been alleging that companies such as Ola, Uber and Rapido have been exploiting them for the past four to five years. Both the Houses of Parlt adjourned LoP in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with SP MP Akhilesh Yadav, RJD MP Misa Bharti, DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi and other INDIA bloc MPs stage a protest against the ongoing SIR in Bihar, during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, on Tuesday. (PTI) NEW DELHI : Opposition protests demanding debate on Special Intensive Revision THE Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Tuesday due to protests by the Opposition demanding a discussion on the ongoing voter roll revision in Bihar, even as the Government accused them of practising double standards by asking for a debate on one hand and disrupting the House on the other. The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day on Tuesday without transacting any business after uproar by Opposition members over several issues including a discussion on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar Opposition members trooped to the Well of the Lok Sabha when the House reconvened at 2 pm after two earlier adjournments on the second day of the Monsoon session of Parliament demanding a discussion and roll back of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise initiated by the Election Commission in Bihar ahead of Assembly polls scheduled for later this year. Dilip Saikia, who was on the chair, made repeated requests to Opposition MPs to go back to their places and allow the House to function. As the protests continued, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju got up and condemned the Opposition behaviour. He said it was agreed at the Business Advisory Committee meeting on Monday that first Operation Sindoor will be taken up for discussion and the time for it had also been fixed. Only the rule under which discussion will take place will be decided. They come here carrying placards and violate the rules, I condemn this, Rijiju said. They are asking for a debate and we are ready for a debate but they are not allowing the House to function, he said, slamming the Opposition. These double standards are wrong, on one hand they ask for debate and then create a ruckus like this, he said. Rijiju said the Government is ready but the Opposition was wasting the time of Parliament. Earlier, when the House re-convened at 12 noon, BJP member Jagdambika Pal, who was in the chair, urged the floor leaders of the Opposition parties to ask their members to return to their seats and allow the House to function. The Government is ready to discuss any issue which the Speaker allows as per the rules. I appeal to you to go back to your seats, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, said. Pal also urged Opposition members not to show placards and instead give in writing their demands at the meetings of the Business Advisory Committee. As ruckus continued, Pal adjourned proceedings till 2 pm. When the House met at 11 am, Opposition MPs, including Congress, were on their feet, demanding discussion on the revision of electoral rolls in Bihar and Operation Sindoor. Speaker Om Birla intervened and told the Opposition MPs that sloganeering and showing placards lowered the dignity of the House. He later adjourned the House till 12 noon. The House could not function on the first day of the session on Monday due to repeated adjournments following Opposition protests over the demand of discussion on Operation Sindoor. The Upper House earlier saw two adjournments during the pre-lunch period, before it was finally adjourned within minutes of meeting at 2 pm. Soon after the House met, Deputy Chairman Harivansh announced the name of Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to move a motion for consideration of The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025. Opposition members were on their feet, raising slogans in support of their demands, the Chair urged them to go back to their seats. As unrelenting members continued to create ruckus, Harivansh adjourned the House for the day. The Rajya Sabha will now meet at 11 am on Wednesday. The House was adjourned twice during the first half, after Opposition MPs disrupted proceeding demanding discussions on Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Soon after the House met for the day and after the listing of papers, Opposition members were on their feet raising slogans in support of their demands including a discussion of Pahalgam attack, Operation Sindoor in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, besides on the Bihar SIR issue. Several Opposition members including those from the Congress had given adjournment notices for suspending the days business and holding an immediate discussion on the SIR issue. Bulldozer drive falls flat as Motinagar encroachments return within days of demolition Staff Reporter : Shops resurface in Subhash Nagar Market Despite a large-scale bulldozer operation carried out by the administration in Motinagar Basti on February 9, encroachment in the capital city, Bhopal, has not been fully curbed. The 40-year-old Subhash Nagar Market was razed, demolishing 110 permanent shops and surrounding encroached structures. This action was deemed necessary for the construction of the third lane of the Subhash Nagar ROB (Road Over Bridge) and the fourth railway line. The administration had deployed heavy police force and machinery for the operation. However, merely two days after the action, people in Motinagar Basti began setting up their shops again. Local residents State that small stalls and temporary shops have reappeared in their old form, precisely where the administration had, with much fanfare, demolished structures. Residents allege that the municipal corporation and administrative teams no longer conduct regular patrols in the area, leading to a resurgence of encroachments. A local shopkeeper sarcastically remarked, The administration made such a huge spectacle, but now their attention has shifted away from here. Surprisingly, neither the bridge construction nor any work on the railway track expansion has commenced since the bulldozer action. The administration had claimed that this project would alleviate the citys traffic problems, but local residents assert that neither tangible progress is visible nor is the administration taking any steps in that direction. A resident stated, They ran the bulldozers, but now theyve forgotten about building the bridge. Its back to the old state of affairs. Renewed encroachments in Motinagar Basti have become a topic of discussion among locals. People are questioning why the administration remains silent after such a large-scale operation. In response, Additional Commissioner Varun Awasthi stated that he had already received information about this and action would be taken soon. He assured that no encroacher would be spared. Collective failure of Govt, probe team; culprits must be punished: 7/11 survivors MUMBAI : AS the Bombay High Court acquitted all 12 accused in the 7/11 train bomb blasts case here, survivors of the horrific terror attack called the ruling a collective failure of the Government and investigation team, and asserted the perpetrators must be punished at any cost. They said the Maharashtra Government should move the Supreme Court and challenge the acquittal, a step already taken by the state administration. In a video interview to PTI hours after the HC verdict on Monday, Chirag Chauhan (40), a chartered accountant and one of the survivors of the 2006 bombings, described the acquittal ruling as a collective failure of the government, investigation team and judicial team. I think the state government should go to the Supreme Court and demand fair justice or investigation. Those responsible (for the serial blasts) should be punished, he insisted. HC acquittal verdict shocking: Ex-Mumbai top cop A N Roy: FORMER Mumbai police commissioner A N Roy on Tuesday expressed shock over the the Bombay High Courts acquittal of all 12 accused in the 7/11 train blasts case, saying the probe in the case was conducted in a professional manner where evidence was collected honestly and truthfully. He said the police only chargesheeted the people who had a core role in the blasts, and said there was no witch hunt involved. Roy headed the city police force when the blasts occurred on July 11, 2006, while the probe in the terror attack was handled by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). More than 180 people were killed when seven blasts ripped through Mumbai local trains at various locations on the western line. Nineteen years later, the Bombay High Court on Monday acquitted all 12 accused, saying the prosecution utterly failed to prove the case and that it was hard to believe the accused committed the crime. Talking to PTI, former Mumbai police chief Roy said, I am shocked to see the kind of judgment. But it is a judicial verdict, we accept it respectfully. The relevant department, which is ATS, is studying the judgment. They will take legal opinion. I am sure they will file an appeal in the Supreme Court on that, he said. EOW Jabalpur raids three locations of Tribal Deptts Dy Commr Staff Reporter Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Jabalpur unearthed undisclosed movable and immovable properties of Rs 5.89 crore in simultaneous raids at multiple locations linked to Jagdish Prasad Sarvate, Divisional Deputy Commissioner, Tribal Welfare Department (Pre-Examination Training) in Jabalpur, Bhopal and Sagar, on Tuesday. The raids were conducted based on allegations of amassing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. EOW, Director General, Upendra Jain informed that following preliminary verification of the complaint, a case was registered under Sections 13(1)(B), 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended 2018). Raids were carried out by three EOW teams at Sarvates official residence in Shankar Shah Nagar, Jabalpur, his private residence in Bagh Mugalia, Bhopal, and ancestral home in Adhartal, Jabalpur. A separate team searched his government quarter Rs in Sagar. During the raid at Jabalpur residence, EOW personnel found Rs 7.06 lakh in cash, household items worth Rs 20.41 lakh, 17 immovable properties valued at Rs 3.17 crore, 56 bottles of premium liquor worth Rs 1.08 lakh and 10 properties under his mothers name still being assessed. Raid in Bhopal Property unearthed Rs 1.29 lakh in cash, gold jewelry worth Rs 14.99 lakh, silver worth Rs 1.36 lakh, bank FD of Rs 1.5 lakh, household goods worth Rs 23 lakh, three vehicles worth Rs 8.43 lakh, two flats worth Rs 37.32 lakh, and life insurance investments under review. At Adhartal property, the team found ancestral house valued at Rs 1.5 crore, one plot worth Rs 6.51 lakh, insurance policies and locker under evaluation. Till now, EOW Jabalpur found assets amounting to Rs 5.89 crore. Search operations and document verifications are ongoing and expected to unearth more undisclosed movable and immovable properties. Mah Govt brings new scheme with Rs 25K cr outlay to boost agri sector NASHIK : THE Maharashtra Government on Tuesday announced a new scheme aimed at empowering farmers and promoting climate-resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective farming practices. The Krishi Samruddhi scheme will be implemented by the agriculture department over the next five years with a cumulative outlay of Rs 25,000 crore. State Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate has described the scheme as a special gift to farmers on the occasion of birthdays of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Farmers form the backbone of the rural economy. The Krishi Samruddhi scheme has been designed to boost capital investment in the agriculture sector, improve infrastructure, reduce input costs, and enhance productivity, Kokate told reporters. The Cabinet has approved the scheme and budgetary provision has been made, he said. Key components of the scheme include capital investment for modern infrastructure, crop diversification, value chain strengthening, and promoting agro technologies suitable for climatic conditions. The goal is not just to increase yield, but to ensure long-term prosperity for our farmer brothers and sisters. This scheme will help bring real change to their lives, Kokate added. He said the scheme also aims to encourage sustainable farming practices by offering financial assistance for technology adoption, soil health improvement, water-use efficiency, and post-harvest value addition. BRUSSELS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) is intensifying negotiations with the United States in pursuit of a resolution to an ongoing trade dispute, while simultaneously preparing a set of potential countermeasures in the event that talks fail, a spokesperson told Xinhua in an emailed statement on Wednesday. "The EU's primary focus is on achieving a negotiated outcome with the United States. Intensive technical and political-level contact is ongoing," said Olof Gill, spokesperson for the European Commission on trade. While diplomacy remains the bloc's priority, the EU is laying the groundwork for alternative outcomes, including the implementation of additional retaliatory measures, according to the spokesperson. As part of these preparations, the bloc plans to consolidate two existing countermeasure lists into a single, streamlined package. "To make our countermeasures clearer, simpler, and stronger, we will merge Lists 1 and 2 into a single list and submit this to Member States for approval," the spokesperson explained. The consolidated list will combine already approved tariffs on 21 billion euros (24.6 billion U.S. dollars) worth of U.S. goods with a proposed list covering an additional 72 billion euros in American exports. The combined measures, however, will not take effect until Aug. 7, the statement said. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic is expected to speak later Wednesday with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, ahead of a European Commission briefing to EU Member States at the Committee of Permanent Representatives. (1 euro = 1.17 U.S. dollars) Nainpurs Shweta Jaiswal Mishra, scientist at ISRO, honoured at National Geospatial Awards Shweta Jaiswal Mishra, Senior Scientist, receiving the National Award for Women of Excellence in Geospatial Science & Technology at the National Geospatial Awards 2025. Our Correspondent NAINPUR (Mandla) Local lass Shweta Jaiswal Mishra, Senior Scientist at the Space Applications Centre (SAC), ISRO, Ahmedabad, received the coveted National Award for Women of Excellence in Geospatial Science & Technology at the National Geospatial Awards 2025 . This prestigious honour was bestowed on her during the Open Source GIS Day 2025 celebrations at IIT Bombay, in the distinguished presence of former ISRO Chairman AS Kiran Kumar. Shweta Jaiswal Mishra is daughter of Devendra Mohan Jaiswal, The Hitavada Correspondent of Nainpur . After completing her M.Tech. in Spatial Information Technology at Devi Ahilya University, Indore, she joined ISRO in 2010 and is currently part of SACs Geospatial Data Analytics & Web Services Group. Her transformative contributions included - Renewable Energy Application for India, : A nationwide tool that maps solar potential using INSAT-3D/3DR satellite data, Solar Calculator: Initially built for India and later adapted for Mauritius, Oman and Papua New Guinea, strengthening global renewable-energy planning, Geospatial Energy Map of India: Developed with NITI Aayog, integrating disparate energy datasets onto a single interactive platform, Global Solar Calculator: Led development following the Prime Ministers COP-26 pledge, advancing worldwide climate-action tools, Research highlights include deep-learning-based solar-insolation forecasting and automated detection of solar-power plants via high-resolution remote-sensing imagery, Urban-GIS initiatives such as the Ahmedabad City GIS Application and the Urban Sprawl Information System. Shwetas work has already earned her the SAC Shining Star Award (2024), Young Geospatial Scientist Award (2016) and ISRO Team Excellence Award (2013). The latest award recognises her unwavering commitment to harnessing space-based geospatial science for sustainable development and energy security. Speaking after the ceremony, Ms Shweta credited the constant support from my family in Nainpur and the collaborative spirit at ISRO for her success. The residents of Nainpur, her family members, well wishers, have expressed immense pride in her achievements and . wished her continued success in her pioneering scientific journey. President accepts Dhankhars resignation NEW DELHI : PRESIDENT Droupadi Murmu accepted the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar from the post of Vice President of India on Tuesday. The letter has been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and soon an official notification will be issued. This was announced during the Rajya Sabha proceedings, when BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, who was in the Chair, said that Dhankhars resignation as the Vice President has been accepted. Tiwari also said that the Ministry of Home Affairs has conveyed resignation of Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar under Article 67A of the Constitution with immediate effect. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended good wishes to Dhankhar. The PM wrote on X, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health. The PMs post came at a time when the Opposition has been raising questions about Dhankhars sudden resignation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday wished Jagdeep Dhankhar, who has resigned as Vice President on health grounds, good health, and said he got many opportunities to serve the country in various capacities. He said on X, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health. Jagdeep Dhankhars resignation has triggered the constitutional process to elect a new Vice President of India, say experts. Since the Vice President also serves as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the post cannot remain vacant for long, according to the experts. Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day amid Opposition protests over special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. Date :23-Jul-2025 Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day amid Opposition protests over special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. Revival of L-70 anti-aircraft gun OFK gets fresh order of upgraded L-70 anti-aircraft ammunition By Ashish Rajput Jabalpur, The L-70 anti-aircraft guns, which served the Indian Armed Forces for decades, played a key role in anti-drone attack during Operation Sindoor AFTER a long interval of eight years, Ordnance Factory Khamaria (OFK) has received a significant boost with a fresh order for the production of an upgraded version of the L-70 anti-aircraft ammunition. The new production order proves the mettle of the oldest defence production units in the country and reinforcing its strategic relevance. Production of over 1.5 lakh rounds of the upgraded L-70 anti-aircraft ammunition is targeted to be streamlined within next 6 to 8 months. The placement of indent has prompted the factory to strengthen its resources and workforce to meet the high demand efficiently. The upgraded state-of-the-art L-70 ammunition has been designed for a higher rate of fire. It is intended to enhance the effectiveness of L-70 anti-aircraft guns, which have served the Indian Armed Forces for decades and played a key role in anti-drone attack during Operation Sindoor. The new variant is believed to offer better precision, reliability and performance during operations. Production of the old version of the L-70 ammunition, which had one of the major portion of annual targets, was discontinued in 2017-18. The new production order proves a major relief and recognition of the factorys technical capability and manufacturing infrastructure. Sources within the factory confirmed that preparations are already underway to scale up operations, mobilise raw material and reactivate key production lines. The workforce, many of whom were engaged in maintenance and limited assignments, are now being re-deployed for full-scale production. This order not only reinforces OFKs role in Indias defence manufacturing ecosystem but also reflects the Governments renewed commitment towards self-reliance in defence production. Operation Sindoor: L-70 anti-aircraft artillery gun countered drone attacks THE L-70 anti-aircraft artillery gun played a vital role in Operation Sindoor in countering drone attacks. It remained a significant part of Indias layered air defence system and was crucial in neutralising the threat posed by Pakistani drones. The upgraded version of L-70 has enhanced capabilities like including radar, electro-optical sensors and auto-tracking for effectively targeting and destroying low-altitude aerial threats. The L-70 is an example of a legacy system that has been modernised with advanced technology to meet current and future threats. Sudden twist THE sheer suddenness of the development is stunning -- the unexpected resignation of Vice President Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar from the position he held with such aplomb for three years. Until the moment his resignation letter became public, there was no indication whatsoever that the dour and learned Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar would say quits citing health reasons. Though the reasons of his indifferent health may have some substance, there also are reasons to suspect that there could be some other and more potent triggers for his precipitate decision. No matter all that, it is beyond doubt that Mr. Dhankhar is a pre-eminent public figure that made good impact on public affairs and public discourse -- thanks to his learnedness, his scholarship, his long years of public service in high positions, and most importantly his courage to take positions on critical issues and stand his ground no matter what. Whether anybody agreed with his positions or not, it has always been obvious that Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar influenced Indias public discourse in his own way. As Mr. Dhankhar went through the motions of the parliamentary work throughout the day, there was no indication about any storm that could be brewing with the Vice President. In a late afternoon meeting in which he participated, others could not imagine that in a few more hours, Mr. Dhankhar would become the first Vice President of India to have resigned on health grounds. There were a couple of others who stepped down as Vice President, but for obvious and stated reasons of other interests including contesting presidential elections. That was the reason political circles were shocked to hear the news that Mr. Dhankhar had sent his resignation to President Mrs. Droupadi Murmu -- requesting for immediate effect of his move. Superficially, there is no reason to suspect any motive for Mr. Dhankhars resignation other than his health. The nation had seen him getting admitted to hospital and treated for some cardiac issues. The people had also seen him collapse unconscious for a while at a public function a few days ago. Yet, when Mr. Dhankhar arrived at the Parliament Complex on the first day of the Monsoon Session, he looked absolutely fit and fine and found indulging in his easy banter and smart one-liners during conversations with people. And then came the news late evening that Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar had put in his papers. Political loose talk has it that two Union Ministers, Mr. Kirren Rijiju and Mr. J.P. Nadda, did not attend the Business Advisory Committee meeting in the late afternoon in which Mr. Dhankhar was present along with other members. Doubts are also being raised about the possible stand Mr. Dhankhar was expected to take as regards some matters related to judiciary. The political gossip states further that the Government wanted to avoid a possible confrontation with Mr. Dhankhar on those issues. These subtle political undercurrents may have been the reasons for Mr. Dhankhars precitipate decision to resign from the post he held with such distinction. No matter the fine political details of the developments before and after his resignation, it is clear that many clandestine triggers must have worked on Mr. Dhankhars mind as he mulled quitting -- and finally sent in his letter to the President. Given the style of functioning of the Narendra Modi Government, some of those details may never come out in the open. Thus, many people may keep guessing the reasons for the sudden resignation of Mr. Dhankhar. But it must be admitted -- beyond politics -- that Mr. Jagdeep Dhankhar has been a man of rare merit and put his stamp on every assignment and position of responsibility he held in his illustrious public career. His quitting has added a strange twist to Indias top-level politics, nevertheless. PHNOM PENH, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has arrested and charged a gang of six Malaysian men with an attempt to smuggle nearly 62 kg of dry cannabis to London, said a Phnom Penh Municipal Court's press release. The accused, aged between 28 and 71 years old, were arrested at the Phnom Penh International Airport's departure terminal by anti-drug and customs police, said the press release dated Tuesday and issued to the media on Wednesday. A total of 61.8 kg of dry cannabis hidden in four suitcases was seized from the suspects' possession as they were attempting to smuggle it to London. They were "charged with transporting narcotic substance unlawfully" under Article 40 of the Law on Drug Control, the press release said. Under the charge, they could face imprisonment from 20 to 30 years or whole life for trafficking dry cannabis with a quantity of more than 60 kg. LONDON, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Two people have died and two others were injured in a shooting incident Wednesday morning in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, police have confirmed. "We can advise there is no ongoing risk to the public," said a spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Assembly Member Deborah Erskine called for restraint and urged the public to avoid speculation while police investigations continue. "This is truly shocking and has stunned the entire community," she said. Sinn Fein MP Pat Cullen also expressed her sympathies, saying, "My thoughts are with the victims and their families at this tragic time." She added, "I would urge people not to speculate on the details of this tragic and shocking incident." Advisors Preferred LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report) in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 34,400 shares of the pipeline companys stock, valued at approximately $2,084,000. A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd lifted its holdings in Williams Companies by 1.2% in the first quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 577,123 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $34,489,000 after buying an additional 6,816 shares during the period. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC grew its position in shares of Williams Companies by 27.5% in the 1st quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 402,967 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $24,081,000 after acquiring an additional 87,031 shares during the period. Kessler Investment Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Williams Companies in the 1st quarter valued at about $327,000. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Williams Companies by 14.0% during the 1st quarter. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. now owns 85,839 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $5,130,000 after buying an additional 10,561 shares during the period. Finally, Cerity Partners LLC boosted its holdings in Williams Companies by 4.3% in the 4th quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 183,317 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $9,224,000 after purchasing an additional 7,618 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.44% of the companys stock. Get Williams Companies alerts: Insider Transactions at Williams Companies In other news, SVP Terrance Lane Wilson sold 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $62.70, for a total transaction of $125,400.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president owned 315,645 shares in the company, valued at approximately $19,790,941.50. The trade was a 0.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 0.44% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Williams Companies Trading Down 0.5% WMB stock opened at $57.42 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a current ratio of 0.40. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $59.39 and a 200 day moving average price of $58.16. The firm has a market cap of $70.02 billion, a PE ratio of 30.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.94 and a beta of 0.65. Williams Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $40.41 and a fifty-two week high of $63.45. Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, May 5th. The pipeline company reported $0.60 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.55 by $0.05. Williams Companies had a return on equity of 15.95% and a net margin of 21.18%. The business had revenue of $3.05 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.90 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.59 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 10.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Williams Companies, Inc. will post 2.08 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Williams Companies Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 13th were paid a $0.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 13th. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.48%. Williams Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 106.95%. Analysts Set New Price Targets WMB has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. TD Cowen initiated coverage on shares of Williams Companies in a research report on Monday, July 7th. They set a buy rating and a $67.00 price objective for the company. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Williams Companies from $58.00 to $70.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, March 25th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on shares of Williams Companies from $64.00 to $67.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 28th. Scotiabank raised their price objective on shares of Williams Companies from $59.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a $63.00 target price on shares of Williams Companies in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Williams Companies presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $61.77. Get Our Latest Report on WMB Williams Companies Company Profile (Free Report) The Williams Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy infrastructure company primarily in the United States. It operates through Transmission & Gulf of Mexico, Northeast G&P, West, and Gas & NGL Marketing Services segments. The Transmission & Gulf of Mexico segment comprises natural gas pipelines; Transco, Northwest pipeline, MountainWest, and related natural gas storage facilities; and natural gas gathering and processing, and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WMB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Williams Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Williams Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. TransAlta Corporation (NYSE:TAC Free Report) (TSE:TA) Equities research analysts at Atb Cap Markets upped their FY2025 EPS estimates for shares of TransAlta in a note issued to investors on Thursday, July 17th. Atb Cap Markets analyst N. Heywood now forecasts that the utilities provider will earn $0.36 per share for the year, up from their previous estimate of $0.32. The consensus estimate for TransAltas current full-year earnings is $0.41 per share. Get TransAlta alerts: TransAlta (NYSE:TAC Get Free Report) (TSE:TA) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 7th. The utilities provider reported $0.07 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.09 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $526.69 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $509.31 million. TransAlta had a negative return on equity of 1.64% and a net margin of 0.01%. A number of other research firms also recently issued reports on TAC. Scotiabank raised shares of TransAlta from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $16.00 to $20.00 in a report on Friday. Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of TransAlta from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, June 12th. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their price objective on shares of TransAlta from $23.00 to $20.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, May 8th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of TransAlta from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, June 14th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $19.83. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on TAC TransAlta Stock Up 0.1% Shares of TransAlta stock opened at $12.26 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.19, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.78. The company has a 50-day moving average of $10.50 and a 200 day moving average of $10.35. The firm has a market cap of $3.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -612.89 and a beta of 0.76. TransAlta has a 1 year low of $6.78 and a 1 year high of $14.64. Hedge Funds Weigh In On TransAlta Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. NBC Securities Inc. boosted its position in TransAlta by 145,600.0% in the 1st quarter. NBC Securities Inc. now owns 2,914 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 2,912 shares in the last quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd boosted its position in TransAlta by 48,666.7% in the 1st quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 4,389 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 4,380 shares in the last quarter. Tobam boosted its position in TransAlta by 239.2% in the 1st quarter. Tobam now owns 10,943 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $102,000 after purchasing an additional 7,717 shares in the last quarter. Entropy Technologies LP purchased a new stake in TransAlta in the 1st quarter worth approximately $119,000. Finally, Ballentine Partners LLC purchased a new stake in TransAlta in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $134,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 59.00% of the companys stock. TransAlta Company Profile (Get Free Report) TransAlta Corporation engages in the development, production, and sale of electric energy. It operates through Hydro, Wind and Solar, Gas, Energy Transition, and Energy Marketing segments. The Hydro segment holds interest of approximately 922 megawatts (MW) of owned hydroelectric generating capacity located in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for TransAlta Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TransAlta and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Barclays PLC (LON:BARC Get Free Report) has received a consensus rating of Buy from the five analysts that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, three have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is GBX 370.25 ($5.01). A number of analysts have recently commented on BARC shares. Citigroup cut Barclays to a neutral rating and lifted their target price for the stock from GBX 360 ($4.87) to GBX 366 ($4.95) in a research report on Friday, July 18th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on Barclays from GBX 370 ($5.00) to GBX 410 ($5.54) and gave the stock a top pick rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 25th. Shore Capital reiterated a buy rating on shares of Barclays in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their target price on Barclays from GBX 340 ($4.60) to GBX 355 ($4.80) and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. Get Barclays alerts: Read Our Latest Report on BARC Insiders Place Their Bets Barclays Stock Performance In related news, insider C.S. Venkatakrishnan sold 23,395 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, June 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 326 ($4.41), for a total transaction of 76,267.70 ($103,106.26). Also, insider Anna Cross sold 13,112 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 326 ($4.41), for a total transaction of 42,745.12 ($57,787.10). 1.47% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Shares of Barclays stock opened at GBX 351.05 ($4.75) on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of 50.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.32, a PEG ratio of 1.15 and a beta of 1.36. Barclays has a fifty-two week low of GBX 196.44 ($2.66) and a fifty-two week high of GBX 352.80 ($4.77). The stock has a 50 day moving average of GBX 329.28 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 303.06. Barclays (LON:BARC Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The financial services provider reported GBX 13 ($0.18) EPS for the quarter. Barclays had a return on equity of 6.97% and a net margin of 19.54%. Analysts forecast that Barclays will post 39.1062802 EPS for the current year. About Barclays (Get Free Report Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through Barclays UK and Barclays International division segments. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Barclays Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barclays and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vestor Capital LLC increased its holdings in Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Free Report) by 663.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 116,709 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock after purchasing an additional 101,427 shares during the period. Becton, Dickinson and Company makes up 2.2% of Vestor Capital LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 13th biggest holding. Vestor Capital LLCs holdings in Becton, Dickinson and Company were worth $26,733,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 36.1% during the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 12,126,707 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $2,751,187,000 after acquiring an additional 3,219,317 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 10.8% during the 1st quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 6,843,856 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $1,567,654,000 after acquiring an additional 667,957 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 1.1% during the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 6,351,537 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $1,437,161,000 after acquiring an additional 66,024 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 6.7% during the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 4,265,638 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $967,745,000 after acquiring an additional 267,436 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC lifted its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 392.4% during the 4th quarter. Kovitz Investment Group Partners LLC now owns 3,416,665 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $775,139,000 after acquiring an additional 2,722,829 shares during the last quarter. 86.97% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Becton Dickinson and Company alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Piper Sandler lowered shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and cut their price objective for the company from $260.00 to $185.00 in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Wells Fargo & Company lowered shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Morgan Stanley cut their price objective on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $280.00 to $196.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Bank of America lowered shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $190.00 price objective for the company. in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Finally, Citigroup lowered shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $217.00 to $185.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $219.22. Becton, Dickinson and Company Price Performance Shares of NYSE BDX opened at $181.50 on Wednesday. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $173.51 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $204.06. The company has a market cap of $52.02 billion, a PE ratio of 34.64, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 0.25. The company has a quick ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70. Becton, Dickinson and Company has a twelve month low of $163.33 and a twelve month high of $251.99. Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The medical instruments supplier reported $3.35 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.28 by $0.07. Becton, Dickinson and Company had a net margin of 7.28% and a return on equity of 15.99%. The company had revenue of $5.27 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.35 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $3.17 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 4.5% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts predict that Becton, Dickinson and Company will post 14.43 EPS for the current year. Becton, Dickinson and Company Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Investors of record on Monday, September 8th will be paid a $1.04 dividend. This represents a $4.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.29%. Becton, Dickinson and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 79.39%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, EVP David Shan sold 1,166 shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company stock in a transaction on Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $171.19, for a total transaction of $199,607.54. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 4,575 shares in the company, valued at approximately $783,194.25. The trade was a 20.31% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Michael David Garrison sold 1,185 shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company stock in a transaction on Friday, July 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $180.29, for a total transaction of $213,643.65. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 4,887 shares in the company, valued at approximately $881,077.23. This trade represents a 19.52% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.36% of the companys stock. About Becton, Dickinson and Company (Free Report) Becton, Dickinson and Company develops, manufactures, and sells medical supplies, devices, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic products for healthcare institutions, physicians, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, pharmaceutical industry, and the general public worldwide. The company operates in three segments: BD Medical, BD Life Sciences, and BD Interventional. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BDX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BlackRock (NYSE:BLK Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $1,119.19 and last traded at $1,108.13, with a volume of 991217 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $1,105.38. Analysts Set New Price Targets BLK has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on shares of BlackRock from $1,180.00 to $1,170.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. TD Cowen reduced their price target on BlackRock from $1,251.00 to $1,032.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $1,115.00 target price on shares of BlackRock in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Citigroup dropped their price target on BlackRock from $1,200.00 to $1,100.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 14th. Finally, Telsey Advisory Group reissued an outperform rating on shares of BlackRock in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $1,151.21. Get BlackRock alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on BLK BlackRock Trading Up 0.8% The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $1,013.56 and a 200-day simple moving average of $972.65. The company has a current ratio of 4.34, a quick ratio of 4.34 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38. The firm has a market capitalization of $170.70 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.64, a P/E/G ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 1.41. BlackRock (NYSE:BLK Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 15th. The asset manager reported $12.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $10.41 by $1.64. The company had revenue of $5.42 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.40 billion. BlackRock had a return on equity of 15.83% and a net margin of 29.68%. The firms revenue was up 12.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $10.36 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that BlackRock will post 47.41 EPS for the current fiscal year. BlackRock Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 23rd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 5th were given a dividend of $5.21 per share. This represents a $20.84 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.89%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 5th. BlackRocks payout ratio is currently 50.39%. Insider Buying and Selling In other BlackRock news, Director J. Richard Kushel sold 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $912.50, for a total transaction of $9,125,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 66,034 shares of the companys stock, valued at $60,256,025. This represents a 13.15% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 1.98% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On BlackRock A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in BLK. Securian Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock during the 1st quarter valued at about $7,331,000. Prudent Man Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock in the first quarter valued at $2,018,000. Arizona State Retirement System purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock in the first quarter valued at $40,868,000. Polar Capital Holdings Plc bought a new stake in shares of BlackRock in the 4th quarter worth about $15,307,000. Finally, Community Financial Services Group LLC boosted its position in shares of BlackRock by 17.2% during the first quarter. Community Financial Services Group LLC now owns 5,702 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $5,397,000 after buying an additional 836 shares during the period. 80.69% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. BlackRock Company Profile (Get Free Report) BlackRock, Inc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to institutional, intermediary, and individual investors including corporate, public, union, and industry pension plans, insurance companies, third-party mutual funds, endowments, public institutions, governments, foundations, charities, sovereign wealth funds, corporations, official institutions, and banks. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH lessened its holdings in shares of CocaCola Company (The) (NYSE:KO Free Report) by 0.7% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 24,357 shares of the companys stock after selling 165 shares during the quarter. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OHs holdings in CocaCola were worth $1,744,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of KO. Deseret Mutual Benefit Administrators boosted its stake in CocaCola by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Deseret Mutual Benefit Administrators now owns 20,099 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,439,000 after purchasing an additional 143 shares during the last quarter. MBA Advisors LLC boosted its stake in CocaCola by 1.2% during the 1st quarter. MBA Advisors LLC now owns 12,443 shares of the companys stock valued at $891,000 after purchasing an additional 143 shares during the last quarter. BXM Wealth LLC boosted its stake in CocaCola by 4.3% during the 1st quarter. BXM Wealth LLC now owns 3,532 shares of the companys stock valued at $253,000 after purchasing an additional 144 shares during the last quarter. MTM Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in CocaCola by 0.3% during the 1st quarter. MTM Investment Management LLC now owns 50,612 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,637,000 after purchasing an additional 144 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Navis Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its stake in CocaCola by 4.2% during the 1st quarter. Navis Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,594 shares of the companys stock valued at $257,000 after purchasing an additional 146 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.26% of the companys stock. Get CocaCola alerts: CocaCola Trading Down 0.6% NYSE:KO opened at $69.67 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.10, a quick ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.57. The stock has a market capitalization of $299.87 billion, a PE ratio of 27.87, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 0.45. The firms 50 day moving average is $70.71 and its 200 day moving average is $69.17. CocaCola Company has a 12 month low of $60.62 and a 12 month high of $74.38. CocaCola Dividend Announcement CocaCola ( NYSE:KO Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $0.87 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.83 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $12.50 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.55 billion. CocaCola had a net margin of 23.00% and a return on equity of 45.49%. CocaColas revenue was up 2.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.84 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that CocaCola Company will post 2.96 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 1st. Investors of record on Monday, September 15th will be issued a $0.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, September 15th. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.93%. CocaColas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 81.60%. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, EVP Beatriz R. Perez sold 60,326 shares of CocaCola stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.87, for a total value of $4,335,629.62. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 187,716 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,491,148.92. The trade was a 24.32% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CFO John Murphy sold 88,658 shares of CocaCola stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.09, for a total transaction of $6,391,355.22. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 205,511 shares in the company, valued at $14,815,287.99. This trade represents a 30.14% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 415,387 shares of company stock valued at $29,923,985. 0.90% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets KO has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. BNP Paribas reiterated an outperform rating and set a $83.00 price target on shares of CocaCola in a research note on Monday. Royal Bank Of Canada set a $76.00 price target on CocaCola and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on CocaCola from $74.00 to $78.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Barclays reissued an overweight rating on shares of CocaCola in a research report on Thursday, March 27th. Finally, UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of CocaCola from $84.00 to $86.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, CocaCola currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $77.13. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on KO About CocaCola (Free Report) The Coca-Cola Company, a beverage company, manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages worldwide. The company provides sparkling soft drinks, sparkling flavors; water, sports, coffee, and tea; juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages; and other beverages. It also offers beverage concentrates and syrups, as well as fountain syrups to fountain retailers, such as restaurants and convenience stores. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding KO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for CocaCola Company (The) (NYSE:KO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for CocaCola Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CocaCola and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brunswick (NYSE:BC Get Free Report) will likely be posting its Q2 2025 quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Thursday, July 24th. Analysts expect Brunswick to post earnings of $0.92 per share and revenue of $1.25 billion for the quarter. Brunswick has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.500-4.000 EPS and its Q2 2025 guidance at 0.800-1.100 EPS. Brunswick (NYSE:BC Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The company reported $0.56 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.25 by $0.31. The business had revenue of $1.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.14 billion. Brunswick had a return on equity of 12.88% and a net margin of 1.62%. Brunswicks revenue for the quarter was down 10.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.35 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect Brunswick to post $4 EPS for the current fiscal year and $5 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Brunswick alerts: Brunswick Stock Performance NYSE BC opened at $63.67 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $4.18 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 52.62 and a beta of 1.27. The company has a quick ratio of 0.65, a current ratio of 1.57 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $55.83 and a 200-day moving average price of $56.65. Brunswick has a twelve month low of $41.00 and a twelve month high of $87.65. Brunswick Announces Dividend Wall Street Analyst Weigh In The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, August 20th will be paid a $0.43 dividend. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.70%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 20th. Brunswicks payout ratio is 142.15%. Several research analysts have commented on BC shares. DA Davidson restated a neutral rating and set a $43.00 price objective (down from $64.00) on shares of Brunswick in a report on Monday, April 28th. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price target on Brunswick from $64.00 to $45.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Robert W. Baird lifted their price target on Brunswick from $56.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, May 16th. Truist Financial cut their price target on Brunswick from $85.00 to $60.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, April 14th. Finally, Baird R W downgraded Brunswick from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, April 4th. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Brunswick has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $70.00. Get Our Latest Stock Report on BC Insider Activity In related news, VP Christopher F. Dekker sold 2,092 shares of Brunswick stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, June 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $58.47, for a total transaction of $122,319.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president directly owned 44,466 shares in the company, valued at $2,599,927.02. The trade was a 4.49% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.85% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Brunswick A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BC. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. increased its holdings in Brunswick by 477.0% in the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 727 shares of the companys stock valued at $39,000 after purchasing an additional 601 shares in the last quarter. United Services Automobile Association acquired a new stake in shares of Brunswick during the first quarter valued at about $214,000. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Brunswick by 142.9% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 346,503 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,659,000 after acquiring an additional 203,838 shares in the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Brunswick by 133.6% during the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 77,326 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,076,000 after acquiring an additional 44,228 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada grew its stake in shares of Brunswick by 10.7% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 149,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,024,000 after acquiring an additional 14,395 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.34% of the companys stock. Brunswick Company Profile (Get Free Report) Brunswick Corporation designs, manufactures, and markets recreation products in the United States, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, Canada, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Propulsion, Engine P&A, Navico Group, and Boat. The Propulsion segment provides outboard, sterndrive, inboard engines, propulsion-related controls, rigging, and propellers for boat builders through marine retail dealers under the Mercury, Mercury MerCruiser, Mariner, Mercury Racing, Mercury Diesel, Avator, and Fliteboard brands. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Brunswick Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brunswick and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Close Asset Management Ltd raised its stake in Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report) by 25.7% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 635 shares of the industrial products companys stock after acquiring an additional 130 shares during the period. Close Asset Management Ltds holdings in Illinois Tool Works were worth $158,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in ITW. Brighton Jones LLC raised its holdings in Illinois Tool Works by 5.3% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 5,519 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,399,000 after acquiring an additional 277 shares in the last quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 44.9% in the 4th quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 1,730 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $439,000 after purchasing an additional 536 shares during the last quarter. Millstone Evans Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Illinois Tool Works in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Sei Investments Co. increased its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 4.9% in the 4th quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 85,356 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $21,642,000 after purchasing an additional 4,003 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fox Run Management L.L.C. bought a new position in shares of Illinois Tool Works in the 4th quarter valued at $409,000. 79.77% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Illinois Tool Works alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Director David Byron Smith, Jr. purchased 872 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 2nd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $241.16 per share, with a total value of $210,291.52. Following the purchase, the director owned 122,884 shares in the company, valued at $29,634,705.44. This represents a 0.71% increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock. Illinois Tool Works Stock Up 2.3% Shares of ITW opened at $260.48 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $76.32 billion, a PE ratio of 22.91, a PEG ratio of 5.38 and a beta of 1.09. The company has a current ratio of 1.60, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.25. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $249.03 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $249.53. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 12 month low of $214.66 and a 12 month high of $279.13. Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 30th. The industrial products company reported $2.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.34 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $3.84 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.83 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 92.77% and a net margin of 21.37%. The firms revenue was down 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.44 EPS. On average, analysts anticipate that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 EPS for the current year. Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 11th. Investors of record on Monday, June 30th were paid a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.30%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 30th. Illinois Tool Workss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 52.77%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on ITW shares. Evercore ISI decreased their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $252.00 to $249.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, May 19th. Barclays boosted their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $237.00 to $240.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $254.00 to $265.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. UBS Group reduced their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $269.00 to $234.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 7th. Finally, Robert W. Baird boosted their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $239.00 to $244.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating, two have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $255.67. Get Our Latest Research Report on Illinois Tool Works Illinois Tool Works Company Profile (Free Report) Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment in the United States and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ITW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Illinois Tool Works Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Illinois Tool Works and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Comstock Resources (NYSE:CRK Get Free Report) is anticipated to post its Q2 2025 quarterly earnings results after the market closes on Wednesday, July 30th. Analysts expect Comstock Resources to post earnings of $0.16 per share and revenue of $431.82 million for the quarter. Comstock Resources (NYSE:CRK Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 30th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.18 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.16 by $0.02. Comstock Resources had a negative return on equity of 0.67% and a negative net margin of 23.39%. The company had revenue of $512.85 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $408.99 million. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted ($0.03) earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 52.7% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts expect Comstock Resources to post $1 EPS for the current fiscal year and $1 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Comstock Resources alerts: Comstock Resources Trading Up 1.6% CRK opened at $21.36 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $6.26 billion, a P/E ratio of -19.24 and a beta of 0.37. The company has a quick ratio of 0.40, a current ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.34. Comstock Resources has a 52 week low of $7.74 and a 52 week high of $31.17. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $24.86 and a 200-day simple moving average of $21.29. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Comstock Resources by 67.4% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,086,868 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $22,107,000 after acquiring an additional 437,476 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Comstock Resources by 26.0% during the first quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC now owns 65,289 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,328,000 after purchasing an additional 13,485 shares in the last quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. lifted its position in shares of Comstock Resources by 5.1% during the first quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 55,236 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,124,000 after purchasing an additional 2,697 shares in the last quarter. Finally, AQR Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Comstock Resources during the first quarter worth approximately $627,000. Institutional investors own 36.13% of the companys stock. CRK has been the topic of several recent research reports. UBS Group restated a sell rating and issued a $20.00 price target (up previously from $19.00) on shares of Comstock Resources in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Morgan Stanley restated a cautious rating and set a $22.00 price objective (up from $21.00) on shares of Comstock Resources in a report on Wednesday, March 26th. Bank of America increased their price target on Comstock Resources from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 23rd. Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $27.00 price target (up previously from $22.00) on shares of Comstock Resources in a research report on Friday, June 13th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Comstock Resources to a sell rating in a research note on Thursday, May 8th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $19.82. Get Our Latest Research Report on CRK Comstock Resources Company Profile (Get Free Report) Comstock Resources, Inc, an independent energy company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of natural gas and oil properties in the United States. Its assets are located in the Haynesville and Bossier shales located in North Louisiana and East Texas. The company was incorporated in 1919 and is headquartered in Frisco, Texas. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Comstock Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Comstock Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held a meeting via video link with the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic on Tuesday, according to a statement released Wednesday by China's Ministry of Commerce. The two sides conducted frank and in-depth discussions on China-European Union (EU) economic and trade cooperation and related key issues. Wang also made solemn representations regarding the EU's inclusion of two Chinese financial institutions in its 18th round of sanctions against Russia, said the statement. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC bought a new position in Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS Free Report) during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund bought 17,729 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $1,233,000. A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Masco by 1.2% during the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,129,771 shares of the construction companys stock worth $371,265,000 after acquiring an additional 58,739 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in shares of Masco by 9.5% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 3,900,643 shares of the construction companys stock worth $283,070,000 after acquiring an additional 337,164 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Masco by 14.7% during the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,821,629 shares of the construction companys stock worth $204,766,000 after acquiring an additional 360,931 shares in the last quarter. Deutsche Bank AG raised its stake in shares of Masco by 12.4% during the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 2,762,250 shares of the construction companys stock worth $200,456,000 after acquiring an additional 305,156 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its stake in shares of Masco by 6.1% during the 4th quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 2,463,217 shares of the construction companys stock worth $178,756,000 after acquiring an additional 142,318 shares in the last quarter. 93.91% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Masco alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Loop Capital set a $62.00 price objective on shares of Masco and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Robert W. Baird lowered shares of Masco from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $70.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Tuesday. Truist Financial cut their price objective on shares of Masco from $92.00 to $75.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating on shares of Masco in a research note on Wednesday, May 28th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group cut their price objective on shares of Masco from $82.00 to $73.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 24th. Eleven research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $74.03. Masco Stock Performance MAS stock opened at $66.80 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $14.09 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.25, a PEG ratio of 2.44 and a beta of 1.19. Masco Corporation has a 1 year low of $56.55 and a 1 year high of $86.70. The stocks fifty day moving average is $64.38 and its two-hundred day moving average is $68.42. Masco (NYSE:MAS Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, April 23rd. The construction company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.92 by ($0.05). The firm had revenue of $1.80 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.84 billion. Masco had a return on equity of 1,320.76% and a net margin of 10.30%. Mascos revenue was down 6.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.93 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that Masco Corporation will post 4.34 EPS for the current fiscal year. Masco Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 23rd were issued a dividend of $0.31 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 23rd. This represents a $1.24 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.86%. Mascos dividend payout ratio is 33.88%. Masco Company Profile (Free Report) Masco Corporation designs, manufactures, and distributes home improvement and building products in North America, Europe, and internationally. The company's Plumbing Products segment offers faucets, showerheads, handheld showers, valves, bath hardware and accessories, bathing units, shower bases and enclosures, sinks, toilets, acrylic tubs, shower trays, spas, exercise pools, and fitness systems; brass, copper, and composite plumbing system components; connected water products; thermoplastic solutions, extruded plastic profiles, specialized fabrications, and PEX tubing products; and other non-decorative plumbing products. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MAS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Masco Corporation (NYSE:MAS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Masco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Masco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Delaney Dennis R purchased a new stake in shares of The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW Free Report) during the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm purchased 7,355 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $576,000. Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Atwood & Palmer Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Charles Schwab in the first quarter worth about $25,000. Westside Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 75.0% in the first quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 350 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. WFA Asset Management Corp bought a new stake in shares of Charles Schwab in the first quarter worth about $33,000. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC grew its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 90.5% in the first quarter. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC now owns 463 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 220 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Beacon Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 53.1% in the first quarter. Beacon Capital Management LLC now owns 487 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 169 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.38% of the companys stock. Get Charles Schwab alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several analysts recently issued reports on SCHW shares. Raymond James Financial reissued an outperform rating and issued a $99.00 target price on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Friday. Piper Sandler raised their target price on Charles Schwab from $80.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their target price on Charles Schwab from $102.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday. Citigroup lifted their price objective on Charles Schwab from $105.00 to $110.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday. Finally, Truist Financial lifted their price objective on Charles Schwab from $100.00 to $107.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and sixteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Charles Schwab currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $98.65. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, insider Jonathan M. Craig sold 47,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $88.46, for a total value of $4,201,850.00. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Nigel J. Murtagh sold 20,872 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, June 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.01, for a total value of $1,878,688.72. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 58,999 shares in the company, valued at $5,310,499.99. This trade represents a 26.13% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 116,313 shares of company stock worth $10,264,091 in the last three months. Corporate insiders own 6.30% of the companys stock. Charles Schwab Trading Down 0.8% Charles Schwab stock opened at $95.49 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.53, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $89.44 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $82.15. The Charles Schwab Corporation has a 12 month low of $61.15 and a 12 month high of $97.50. The company has a market capitalization of $173.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 0.93. Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, July 18th. The financial services provider reported $1.14 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.10 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $5.85 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.64 billion. Charles Schwab had a return on equity of 19.73% and a net margin of 33.68%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 24.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.73 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that The Charles Schwab Corporation will post 4.22 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Charles Schwab Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 23rd. Investors of record on Friday, May 9th were given a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 9th. This represents a $1.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.13%. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.03%. Charles Schwab Profile (Free Report) The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SCHW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Charles Schwab Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Charles Schwab and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Forbes J M & Co. LLP raised its holdings in Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) by 3.6% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 453,488 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 15,579 shares during the quarter. Bank of America accounts for 1.8% of Forbes J M & Co. LLPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 13th largest position. Forbes J M & Co. LLPs holdings in Bank of America were worth $18,924,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Gradient Investments LLC lifted its position in shares of Bank of America by 7.8% during the 1st quarter. Gradient Investments LLC now owns 696,416 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,061,000 after buying an additional 50,296 shares during the last quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas raised its stake in shares of Bank of America by 12.7% during the 4th quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas now owns 158,455 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $69,640,000 after purchasing an additional 17,880 shares during the period. Prosperity Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Bank of America during the 1st quarter valued at $998,000. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC raised its stake in shares of Bank of America by 37.2% during the 1st quarter. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC now owns 65,038 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,714,000 after purchasing an additional 17,619 shares during the period. Finally, International Assets Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Bank of America by 170.5% during the 1st quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC now owns 238,473 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $9,951,000 after purchasing an additional 150,299 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.71% of the companys stock. Get Bank of America alerts: Bank of America Trading Up 0.6% NYSE BAC opened at $47.77 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.14, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a current ratio of 0.80. The firm has a market cap of $359.77 billion, a PE ratio of 13.97, a P/E/G ratio of 1.85 and a beta of 1.30. Bank of America Corporation has a one year low of $33.07 and a one year high of $49.31. The firms fifty day moving average is $45.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $43.64. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 16th. The financial services provider reported $0.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by $0.03. Bank of America had a net margin of 14.81% and a return on equity of 10.25%. The company had revenue of ($22,273.00) million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $26.79 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.83 earnings per share. Bank of Americas quarterly revenue was up 4.3% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that Bank of America Corporation will post 3.7 earnings per share for the current year. BAC has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. UBS Group upped their target price on Bank of America from $46.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on Bank of America from $49.50 to $43.50 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 3rd. Barclays decreased their target price on Bank of America from $58.00 to $54.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Piper Sandler cut their price objective on Bank of America from $45.00 to $42.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 16th. Finally, Cfra Research upped their price objective on Bank of America to $47.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 16th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating, seventeen have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $50.03. Get Our Latest Stock Report on Bank of America About Bank of America (Free Report) Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. It operates in four segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, and Global Markets. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BAC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mount Lucas Management LP lifted its holdings in Global X MSCI Greece ETF (NYSEARCA:GREK Free Report) by 269.6% during the first quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 20,673 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 15,080 shares during the period. Mount Lucas Management LPs holdings in Global X MSCI Greece ETF were worth $971,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of GREK. FIL Ltd acquired a new position in Global X MSCI Greece ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $144,000. Sava Infond d.o.o. acquired a new position in Global X MSCI Greece ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $322,000. Two Sigma Securities LLC acquired a new position in Global X MSCI Greece ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $408,000. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. acquired a new position in Global X MSCI Greece ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $553,000. Finally, Robertson Stephens Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in Global X MSCI Greece ETF during the 1st quarter valued at about $951,000. Get Global X MSCI Greece ETF alerts: Global X MSCI Greece ETF Stock Down 0.2% Shares of NYSEARCA GREK opened at $61.43 on Wednesday. Global X MSCI Greece ETF has a 12 month low of $38.15 and a 12 month high of $61.87. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $56.81 and a 200-day simple moving average of $48.99. The company has a market cap of $304.08 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.65 and a beta of 1.03. About Global X MSCI Greece ETF The Global X MSCI Greece ETF (GREK) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI All Greece Select 25-50 index, a market-cap-weighted index of about 15 Greek firms. GREK was launched on Dec 7, 2011 and is managed by Global X. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GREK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Global X MSCI Greece ETF (NYSEARCA:GREK Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Global X MSCI Greece ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Global X MSCI Greece ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hess (NYSE:HES Get Free Report) is anticipated to post its Q2 2025 quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Wednesday, July 30th. Analysts expect Hess to post earnings of $1.22 per share and revenue of $2.69 billion for the quarter. Hess (NYSE:HES Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, April 30th. The oil and gas producer reported $1.81 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.95 by ($0.14). The firm had revenue of $2.92 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.95 billion. Hess had a net margin of 17.65% and a return on equity of 21.78%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 12.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $3.16 EPS. On average, analysts expect Hess to post $8 EPS for the current fiscal year and $12 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Hess alerts: Hess Stock Performance NYSE:HES opened at $160.31 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $49.59 billion, a PE ratio of 22.17 and a beta of 0.62. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $139.83 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $141.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a quick ratio of 0.91 and a current ratio of 1.08. Hess has a fifty-two week low of $123.79 and a fifty-two week high of $161.69. Hess Announces Dividend Insider Activity at Hess The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 16th were given a dividend of $0.50 per share. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.25%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. Hesss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 27.66%. In other news, CEO John B. Hess sold 250,000 shares of Hess stock in a transaction on Friday, June 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $136.01, for a total transaction of $34,002,500.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,734,679 shares in the company, valued at $235,933,690.79. The trade was a 12.60% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 9.10% of the stock is owned by insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Hess A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Hess stock. Bison Wealth LLC grew its stake in shares of Hess Corporation (NYSE:HES Free Report) by 3.7% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 4,252 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after buying an additional 153 shares during the period. Bison Wealth LLCs holdings in Hess were worth $566,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. 88.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research firms recently issued reports on HES. Susquehanna reduced their price target on shares of Hess from $160.00 to $136.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Mizuho reduced their price target on shares of Hess from $193.00 to $191.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, May 13th. Scotiabank set a $155.00 price target on shares of Hess and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, July 11th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Hess from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, June 14th. Finally, Piper Sandler lifted their price objective on shares of Hess from $147.00 to $153.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $162.78. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on HES About Hess (Get Free Report) Hess Corporation, an exploration and production company, explores, develops, produces, purchases, transports, and sells crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas. The company operates in two segments, Exploration and Production, and Midstream. It conducts production operations primarily in the United States, Guyana, the Malaysia/Thailand Joint Development Area, and Malaysia; and exploration activities principally offshore Guyana, the U.S. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Hess Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hess and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ignite Planners LLC boosted its position in shares of Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT Free Report) by 15.0% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 797 shares of the aerospace companys stock after acquiring an additional 104 shares during the period. Ignite Planners LLCs holdings in Lockheed Martin were worth $381,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Clifford Swan Investment Counsel LLC boosted its stake in Lockheed Martin by 0.3% during the first quarter. Clifford Swan Investment Counsel LLC now owns 12,524 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $5,595,000 after buying an additional 37 shares during the period. Winch Advisory Services LLC boosted its stake in Lockheed Martin by 119.7% during the first quarter. Winch Advisory Services LLC now owns 1,360 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $607,000 after buying an additional 741 shares during the period. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC boosted its stake in Lockheed Martin by 0.9% during the first quarter. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC now owns 7,535 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $3,586,000 after buying an additional 69 shares during the period. Gries Financial LLC boosted its stake in shares of Lockheed Martin by 419.1% during the first quarter. Gries Financial LLC now owns 3,857 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,723,000 after purchasing an additional 3,114 shares during the period. Finally, Crestwood Advisors Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Lockheed Martin by 1.6% during the first quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC now owns 4,837 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $2,161,000 after purchasing an additional 75 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 74.19% of the companys stock. Get Lockheed Martin alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts recently weighed in on LMT shares. TD Cowen restated a hold rating and issued a $480.00 price objective (down from $500.00) on shares of Lockheed Martin in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Cowen downgraded Lockheed Martin from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Sanford C. Bernstein set a $551.00 price objective on Lockheed Martin and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Monday, July 14th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on Lockheed Martin from $481.00 to $499.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Finally, Vertical Research restated a hold rating and issued a $460.00 price objective on shares of Lockheed Martin in a report on Tuesday. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $528.41. Lockheed Martin Trading Down 10.9% Shares of LMT stock opened at $410.56 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.79, a current ratio of 1.08 and a quick ratio of 0.91. The company has a market cap of $96.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.73, a PEG ratio of 1.61 and a beta of 0.28. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $469.37 and a 200-day simple moving average of $464.14. Lockheed Martin Corporation has a 1-year low of $410.11 and a 1-year high of $618.95. Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 22nd. The aerospace company reported $7.28 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $6.34 by $0.94. The firm had revenue of $17.96 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.83 billion. Lockheed Martin had a return on equity of 104.09% and a net margin of 7.66%. On average, equities research analysts expect that Lockheed Martin Corporation will post 27.15 EPS for the current fiscal year. Lockheed Martin Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 26th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 2nd will be issued a $3.30 dividend. This represents a $13.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.22%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 2nd. Lockheed Martins payout ratio is currently 57.02%. About Lockheed Martin (Free Report) Lockheed Martin Corporation, a security and aerospace company, engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of technology systems, products, and services worldwide. The company operates through Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control, Rotary and Mission Systems, and Space segments. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LMT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Lockheed Martin Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lockheed Martin and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. JPL Wealth Management LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:DLR Free Report) by 6.7% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 18,176 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 1,311 shares during the period. JPL Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Digital Realty Trust were worth $2,618,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of DLR. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of Digital Realty Trust by 18.4% in the 4th quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 3,905,883 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $692,630,000 after purchasing an additional 607,132 shares during the last quarter. Pacific Heights Asset Management LLC raised its position in Digital Realty Trust by 33.3% in the 1st quarter. Pacific Heights Asset Management LLC now owns 100,000 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $14,329,000 after buying an additional 25,000 shares during the last quarter. Vectors Research Management LLC raised its position in Digital Realty Trust by 15.8% in the 1st quarter. Vectors Research Management LLC now owns 21,507 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $3,082,000 after buying an additional 2,930 shares during the last quarter. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. raised its position in Digital Realty Trust by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. now owns 643,424 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $92,196,000 after buying an additional 21,598 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Brown Advisory Inc. raised its position in Digital Realty Trust by 25.2% in the 1st quarter. Brown Advisory Inc. now owns 8,174 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,171,000 after buying an additional 1,644 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 99.71% of the companys stock. Get Digital Realty Trust alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In other Digital Realty Trust news, Director Mark R. Patterson sold 175 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $176.50, for a total transaction of $30,887.50. Following the sale, the director owned 6,522 shares in the company, valued at $1,151,133. This represents a 2.61% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.17% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Mizuho upped their price target on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $177.00 to $191.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 17th. Guggenheim assumed coverage on shares of Digital Realty Trust in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. They set a neutral rating for the company. Scotiabank reduced their price target on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $208.00 to $206.00 and set a sector outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Oppenheimer began coverage on shares of Digital Realty Trust in a report on Wednesday, May 14th. They issued an outperform rating and a $200.00 target price for the company. Finally, JMP Securities reissued a market outperform rating and issued a $220.00 target price on shares of Digital Realty Trust in a report on Monday, April 28th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $187.16. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on DLR Digital Realty Trust Stock Performance Shares of Digital Realty Trust stock opened at $179.45 on Wednesday. Digital Realty Trust, Inc. has a 52 week low of $129.95 and a 52 week high of $198.00. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $172.44 and its 200-day simple moving average is $163.85. The firm has a market cap of $60.44 billion, a PE ratio of 167.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a quick ratio of 1.92, a current ratio of 1.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81. Digital Realty Trust (NYSE:DLR Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.77 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.73 by $0.04. Digital Realty Trust had a return on equity of 2.07% and a net margin of 7.65%. The business had revenue of $1.41 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.43 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.67 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.7% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts forecast that Digital Realty Trust, Inc. will post 7.07 earnings per share for the current year. Digital Realty Trust Announces Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, June 13th were paid a dividend of $1.22 per share. This represents a $4.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.72%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 13th. Digital Realty Trusts payout ratio is 456.07%. Digital Realty Trust Company Profile (Free Report) Digital Realty Trust, Inc operates as a real estate investment trust, which engages in the provision of data center, colocation and interconnection solutions. It serves the following industries: artificial intelligence (AI), networks, cloud, digital media, mobile, financial services, healthcare, and gaming. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DLR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:DLR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Digital Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Digital Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mount Lucas Management LP cut its holdings in shares of Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC Free Report) (TSE:K) by 40.1% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 89,136 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 59,571 shares during the period. Mount Lucas Management LPs holdings in Kinross Gold were worth $1,124,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Kinross Gold by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 47,365,206 shares of the mining companys stock worth $439,881,000 after purchasing an additional 763,248 shares in the last quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC grew its stake in shares of Kinross Gold by 10.9% during the 4th quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 32,862,230 shares of the mining companys stock worth $304,633,000 after acquiring an additional 3,224,455 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Kinross Gold during the 4th quarter worth approximately $280,697,000. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its stake in shares of Kinross Gold by 21.2% during the 4th quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 13,951,818 shares of the mining companys stock worth $129,435,000 after acquiring an additional 2,438,445 shares in the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its stake in shares of Kinross Gold by 15.4% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 13,438,786 shares of the mining companys stock worth $124,578,000 after acquiring an additional 1,793,065 shares in the last quarter. 63.69% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Kinross Gold alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have weighed in on KGC shares. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded Kinross Gold from a hold rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $14.00 to $18.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 26th. CIBC raised their target price on Kinross Gold from $16.00 to $21.00 and gave the company an outperformer rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. National Bankshares reissued an outperform rating on shares of Kinross Gold in a report on Tuesday, June 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on Kinross Gold from $14.00 to $19.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 4th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on Kinross Gold in a research report on Wednesday, April 16th. They issued an outperform rating for the company. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and three have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $18.00. Kinross Gold Price Performance Kinross Gold stock opened at $16.42 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $20.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.75, a PEG ratio of 0.62 and a beta of 0.63. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $15.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is $13.18. Kinross Gold Corporation has a 12 month low of $7.84 and a 12 month high of $16.52. The company has a current ratio of 2.83, a quick ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17. Kinross Gold (NYSE:KGC Get Free Report) (TSE:K) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 6th. The mining company reported $0.30 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.22 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $1.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.43 billion. Kinross Gold had a net margin of 21.74% and a return on equity of 15.63%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 38.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.10 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that Kinross Gold Corporation will post 0.81 EPS for the current year. Kinross Gold Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 12th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 29th were paid a dividend of $0.03 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 29th. This represents a $0.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.73%. Kinross Golds dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 12.24%. About Kinross Gold (Free Report) Kinross Gold Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties principally in the United States, Brazil, Chile, Canada, and Mauritania. The company operates the Fort Knox mine and the Manh Choh project in Alaska, as well as the Round Mountain and the Bald Mountain mines in Nevada, the United States; the Paracatu mine in Brazil; the La Coipa and the Lobo-Marte project in Chile; the Tasiast mine in Mauritania; and the Great Bear project in Canada. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding KGC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:KGC Free Report) (TSE:K). Receive News & Ratings for Kinross Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kinross Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mount Lucas Management LP bought a new stake in Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM Free Report) (TSE:AEM) during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 6,675 shares of the mining companys stock, valued at approximately $724,000. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Private Trust Co. NA raised its holdings in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines by 454.9% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 283 shares of the mining companys stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 232 shares during the period. Golden State Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines during the 1st quarter worth about $34,000. Coppell Advisory Solutions LLC increased its position in Agnico Eagle Mines by 235.0% during the 4th quarter. Coppell Advisory Solutions LLC now owns 469 shares of the mining companys stock worth $37,000 after purchasing an additional 329 shares in the last quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC raised its holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines by 31.1% in the first quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 367 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $40,000 after buying an additional 87 shares during the period. Finally, Continuum Advisory LLC raised its holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines by 47.0% in the first quarter. Continuum Advisory LLC now owns 397 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $43,000 after buying an additional 127 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.34% of the companys stock. Get Agnico Eagle Mines alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have issued reports on AEM. CIBC reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Lake Street Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research report on Monday, June 23rd. TD Securities upgraded Agnico Eagle Mines to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on Agnico Eagle Mines from $100.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, March 31st. Finally, Cfra Research upgraded Agnico Eagle Mines to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, April 25th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and five have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Agnico Eagle Mines currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $136.90. Agnico Eagle Mines Trading Up 4.9% Shares of AEM opened at $128.63 on Wednesday. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited has a one year low of $69.72 and a one year high of $129.77. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $117.99 and a 200 day moving average price of $107.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05, a quick ratio of 1.20 and a current ratio of 2.37. The company has a market capitalization of $64.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.37, a P/E/G ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 0.50. Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:AEM Get Free Report) (TSE:AEM) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The mining company reported $1.53 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.39 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $2.38 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.27 billion. Agnico Eagle Mines had a return on equity of 12.09% and a net margin of 26.48%. Agnico Eagle Miness quarterly revenue was up 34.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.76 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Agnico Eagle Mines Limited will post 4.63 EPS for the current fiscal year. Agnico Eagle Mines Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 16th. Investors of record on Monday, June 2nd were issued a $0.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 30th. This represents a yield of 1.36%. Agnico Eagle Miness dividend payout ratio is presently 34.04%. About Agnico Eagle Mines (Free Report) Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, a gold mining company, exploration, development, and production of precious metals. It explores for gold. The company's mines are located in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AEM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM Free Report) (TSE:AEM). Receive News & Ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Notis McConarty Edward cut its stake in shares of McDonalds Corporation (NYSE:MCD Free Report) by 3.6% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 1,220 shares of the fast-food giants stock after selling 46 shares during the quarter. Notis McConarty Edwards holdings in McDonalds were worth $381,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. purchased a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. Pinney & Scofield Inc. purchased a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter worth approximately $29,000. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. purchased a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter worth approximately $30,000. Abound Financial LLC purchased a new stake in McDonalds in the 1st quarter worth approximately $30,000. Finally, Copia Wealth Management purchased a new stake in McDonalds in the 4th quarter worth approximately $31,000. 70.29% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get McDonald's alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, insider Joseph M. Erlinger sold 939 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction on Monday, June 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $288.52, for a total transaction of $270,920.28. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 10,222 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,949,251.44. The trade was a 8.41% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CMO Edith Morgan Flatley sold 1,000 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $300.00, for a total value of $300,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief marketing officer owned 8,858 shares in the company, valued at $2,657,400. This trade represents a 10.14% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 2,878 shares of company stock worth $866,771. Company insiders own 0.25% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have weighed in on MCD shares. Argus cut McDonalds from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, June 13th. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $345.00 price objective (up previously from $340.00) on shares of McDonalds in a report on Monday, May 5th. Redburn Atlantic reiterated a sell rating and issued a $260.00 price objective (down previously from $319.00) on shares of McDonalds in a report on Tuesday, June 10th. Northcoast Research lowered McDonalds from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Finally, TD Securities reissued a hold rating and issued a $305.00 target price on shares of McDonalds in a research report on Thursday, June 5th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have issued a hold rating and fourteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $322.00. Read Our Latest Report on MCD McDonalds Trading Up 1.1% McDonalds stock opened at $299.04 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $213.82 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.39, a PEG ratio of 3.10 and a beta of 0.53. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $302.50 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $302.88. McDonalds Corporation has a 12 month low of $246.12 and a 12 month high of $326.32. McDonalds (NYSE:MCD Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The fast-food giant reported $2.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $2.67. The firm had revenue of $5.96 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.17 billion. McDonalds had a negative return on equity of 195.27% and a net margin of 31.75%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.70 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that McDonalds Corporation will post 12.25 EPS for the current fiscal year. McDonalds Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 16th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 2nd will be paid a $1.77 dividend. This represents a $7.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.37%. McDonaldss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 62.49%. McDonalds Company Profile (Free Report) McDonalds Corp. engages in the operation and franchising of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets and Corporate. The U.S. segment focuses its operations on the United States. The International Operated Markets segment consists of operations and the franchising of restaurants in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the U.K. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for McDonald's Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McDonald's and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- China will maintain communication and consultation with India to further facilitate travel between the two countries, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said in Beijing on Wednesday. India said it will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens from July 24 this year, the first time in five years. Guo made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on the move of India. "We take note of this positive move," Guo said, adding that easing cross-border travel is widely beneficial. Old Port Advisors cut its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Free Report) by 16.7% in the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 3,078 shares of the companys stock after selling 616 shares during the period. Old Port Advisors holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $214,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in NVO. Bank of America Corp DE grew its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 8.1% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 15,492,384 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,332,655,000 after buying an additional 1,165,955 shares during the last quarter. GQG Partners LLC grew its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 74.7% in the 4th quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 12,994,533 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,117,790,000 after buying an additional 5,556,460 shares during the last quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P grew its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 34.2% in the 4th quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 11,571,686 shares of the companys stock valued at $995,397,000 after buying an additional 2,947,771 shares during the last quarter. Folketrygdfondet grew its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 6.9% in the 1st quarter. Folketrygdfondet now owns 9,521,912 shares of the companys stock valued at $661,202,000 after buying an additional 617,974 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC grew its holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S by 1.5% in the 4th quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 8,312,996 shares of the companys stock valued at $715,084,000 after buying an additional 123,681 shares during the last quarter. 11.54% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts recently commented on the company. BNP Paribas assumed coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a research note on Tuesday, April 15th. They issued an underperform rating on the stock. Wall Street Zen raised Novo Nordisk A/S from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, June 14th. BMO Capital Markets reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $64.00 price objective (down previously from $105.00) on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Hsbc Global Res upgraded Novo Nordisk A/S to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Guggenheim downgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $112.00. Novo Nordisk A/S Stock Performance Shares of NVO opened at $66.76 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.74, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $70.34 and a 200 day moving average of $74.21. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 12 month low of $57.00 and a 12 month high of $139.74. The company has a market capitalization of $298.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.75, a PEG ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 0.64. Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, May 7th. The company reported $0.92 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.92. Novo Nordisk A/S had a return on equity of 80.94% and a net margin of 34.52%. The firm had revenue of $11.87 billion for the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.84 earnings per share for the current year. Novo Nordisk A/S Profile (Free Report) Novo Nordisk A/S, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the research and development, manufacture, and distribution of pharmaceutical products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, North America, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity Care, and Rare Disease. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Convergence Investment Partners LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 44.6% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 59,488 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 47,925 shares during the period. Convergence Investment Partners LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $1,507,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Norges Bank acquired a new position in Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth approximately $2,328,986,000. Starboard Value LP acquired a new position in Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth approximately $407,730,000. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. boosted its stake in Pfizer by 307.5% in the 1st quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 10,046,340 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $254,574,000 after purchasing an additional 7,581,030 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA boosted its stake in Pfizer by 7.5% in the 4th quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 76,502,238 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,029,604,000 after purchasing an additional 5,350,381 shares during the period. Finally, APG Asset Management N.V. boosted its stake in Pfizer by 1,106.0% in the 4th quarter. APG Asset Management N.V. now owns 5,619,213 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $143,967,000 after purchasing an additional 5,153,257 shares during the period. 68.36% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Pfizer alerts: Pfizer Stock Up 3.6% PFE stock opened at $25.13 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $142.84 billion, a PE ratio of 18.21, a PEG ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 0.58. Pfizer Inc. has a 1 year low of $20.92 and a 1 year high of $31.54. The company has a current ratio of 1.26, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $24.07 and a 200 day simple moving average of $24.71. Pfizer Announces Dividend Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.92 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.67 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $13.72 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $14.43 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 12.62% and a return on equity of 20.33%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.82 EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 25th will be issued a dividend of $0.43 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.85%. Pfizers payout ratio is 124.64%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms recently commented on PFE. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 21st. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. Berenberg Bank decreased their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $28.00 to $25.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, May 29th. Finally, Bank of America lifted their target price on shares of Pfizer from $26.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have given a hold rating, six have given a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $28.55. View Our Latest Report on PFE Pfizer Company Profile (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wedbush Securities Inc. decreased its position in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 10.5% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 181,026 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 21,212 shares during the quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc.s holdings in Pfizer were worth $4,587,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in PFE. Brighton Jones LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 1,282.4% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 666,318 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $17,677,000 after purchasing an additional 618,117 shares during the last quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 12.5% in the 4th quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 18,766 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $498,000 after purchasing an additional 2,087 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 2.9% in the 4th quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 2,679,628 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $71,091,000 after purchasing an additional 75,245 shares during the last quarter. CoreFirst Bank & Trust bought a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth approximately $226,000. Finally, Segall Bryant & Hamill LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 4.3% in the 4th quarter. Segall Bryant & Hamill LLC now owns 76,539 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,031,000 after purchasing an additional 3,177 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.36% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of analysts have recently commented on the company. Redburn Atlantic dropped their price objective on Pfizer from $29.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price objective on Pfizer from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. HSBC decreased their target price on Pfizer from $27.00 to $26.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, May 19th. UBS Group lifted their target price on Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Leerink Partners decreased their target price on Pfizer from $28.00 to $26.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have issued a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $28.55. Pfizer Stock Up 3.6% Shares of PFE opened at $25.13 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $142.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.21, a PEG ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a current ratio of 1.26. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $24.07 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $24.71. Pfizer Inc. has a 52 week low of $20.92 and a 52 week high of $31.54. Pfizer (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 29th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.92 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $13.72 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.43 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 20.33% and a net margin of 12.62%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 7.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.82 EPS. On average, analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 earnings per share for the current year. Pfizer Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, July 25th will be paid a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.85%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 25th. Pfizers payout ratio is presently 124.64%. About Pfizer (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report) by 8.6% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 2,028 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after acquiring an additional 160 shares during the period. Proficio Capital Partners LLCs holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $337,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the stock. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale increased its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale now owns 1,339,479 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $214,442,000 after acquiring an additional 11,693 shares during the last quarter. Pinnacle Investment Management Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $26,661,000. Sentry LLC bought a new stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $222,000. Compound Global Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 31.2% in the 1st quarter. Compound Global Advisors LLC now owns 4,796 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $747,000 after acquiring an additional 1,141 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Polymer Capital Management HK LTD increased its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 47.7% in the 4th quarter. Polymer Capital Management HK LTD now owns 86,493 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $17,082,000 after acquiring an additional 27,938 shares during the last quarter. 16.51% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. Citigroup restated a buy rating on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Susquehanna set a $265.00 price objective on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and gave the stock a positive rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and set a $270.00 price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, Barclays restated an overweight rating and set a $240.00 price objective (up from $215.00) on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Tuesday, June 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $258.33. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Price Performance Shares of NYSE:TSM opened at $234.47 on Wednesday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $212.72 and a 200 day moving average price of $193.65. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. has a twelve month low of $133.57 and a twelve month high of $248.28. The company has a market cap of $1.22 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.74, a PEG ratio of 1.15 and a beta of 1.29. The company has a quick ratio of 2.18, a current ratio of 2.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 17th. The semiconductor company reported $2.47 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.13 by $0.34. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 34.53% and a net margin of 42.91%. The company had revenue of $30.07 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $28.50 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.48 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 44.4% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. will post 9.2 earnings per share for the current year. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th will be given a $0.6499 dividend. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.11%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 16th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 28.16%. About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (Free Report) Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (TSE:CP Free Report) (NYSE:CP) Equities researchers at Raymond James Financial increased their Q3 2025 earnings estimates for shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research note issued on Thursday, July 17th. Raymond James Financial analyst S. Hansen now anticipates that the company will earn $1.19 per share for the quarter, up from their prior forecast of $1.17. Raymond James Financial has a Outperform rating and a $120.00 price objective on the stock. The consensus estimate for Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys current full-year earnings is $4.34 per share. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: Several other equities analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. CIBC raised their price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$119.00 to C$124.00 in a research note on Thursday, May 22nd. Barclays decreased their price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$130.00 to C$125.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 2nd. Scotiabank lifted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$115.00 to C$120.00 in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. ATB Capital reduced their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$124.00 to C$123.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, July 7th. Finally, Desjardins reduced their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$129.00 to C$124.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$120.62. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Trading Up 0.5% TSE:CP opened at C$106.52 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of C$99.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.12, a PEG ratio of 2.32 and a beta of 0.79. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 49.64. The firm has a 50 day moving average of C$110.73 and a 200 day moving average of C$107.99. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 52 week low of C$94.60 and a 52 week high of C$119.20. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 28th. Stockholders of record on Monday, July 28th will be given a dividend of $0.228 per share. This represents a $0.91 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.86%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, June 27th. This is an increase from Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys previous quarterly dividend of $0.19. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys payout ratio is currently 20.06%. Insider Buying and Selling at Canadian Pacific Kansas City In other news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 15,971 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, June 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$113.33, for a total transaction of C$1,809,927.95. Also, Senior Officer Keith E. Creel sold 170,227 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$110.59, for a total transaction of C$18,825,910.53. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 343,599 shares of company stock worth $38,107,437. 0.03% of the stock is owned by insiders. About Canadian Pacific Kansas City (Get Free Report) Canadian Pacific is a CAD 8 billion Class-1 railroads operating on more than 12,500 miles of track across most of Canada and into parts of the Midwestern and Northeastern United States. It is the second-smallest Class I railroad by revenue and route miles. In 2021, CP hauled shipments of grain (22% of freight revenue), intermodal containers (22%), energy products (like crude and frac sand), chemicals, and plastics (20%) coal (8%), fertilizer and potash (10%), automotive products (5%), and a diverse mix of other merchandise. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Loader Please wait while your request is being verified... Roundview Capital LLC trimmed its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 1.9% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 10,340 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 195 shares during the quarter. Roundview Capital LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $5,649,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Advisors Preferred LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the first quarter valued at $1,426,000. Next Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 4.6% in the first quarter. Next Capital Management LLC now owns 1,142 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $624,000 after acquiring an additional 50 shares in the last quarter. Kidder Stephen W lifted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 44.8% in the first quarter. Kidder Stephen W now owns 970 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $530,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Oak Thistle LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the first quarter valued at $1,276,000. Finally, Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 2.7% in the first quarter. Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,612 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,427,000 after acquiring an additional 68 shares in the last quarter. 71.21% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance GS stock opened at $701.04 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26, a quick ratio of 0.68 and a current ratio of 1.12. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 1 year low of $437.37 and a 1 year high of $726.00. The firm has a market cap of $215.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.45, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.50 and a beta of 1.35. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $647.01 and a 200-day simple moving average of $601.27. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The investment management company reported $10.91 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $9.82 by $1.09. The firm had revenue of $14.58 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.53 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 13.84% and a net margin of 12.37%. The Goldman Sachs Groups revenue for the quarter was up 14.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $8.62 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be issued a dividend of $4.00 per share. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.28%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 29th. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 35.26%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms recently weighed in on GS. Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $560.00 target price on the stock. in a research report on Friday, April 4th. Hsbc Global Res downgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from a hold rating to a moderate sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Barclays reduced their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $760.00 to $720.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, April 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $771.00 to $790.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $660.00. View Our Latest Analysis on GS The Goldman Sachs Group Profile (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RPC (NYSE:RES Get Free Report) is expected to announce its Q2 2025 earnings results before the market opens on Thursday, July 24th. Analysts expect RPC to post earnings of $0.09 per share and revenue of $421.08 million for the quarter. RPC (NYSE:RES Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The oil and gas company reported $0.06 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.07 by ($0.01). RPC had a return on equity of 7.08% and a net margin of 5.55%. The company had revenue of $332.88 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $326.72 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.13 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 11.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts expect RPC to post $0 EPS for the current fiscal year and $0 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get RPC alerts: RPC Stock Up 2.2% RES stock opened at $4.78 on Wednesday. RPC has a 52-week low of $4.10 and a 52-week high of $7.54. The stocks 50 day moving average is $4.85 and its two-hundred day moving average is $5.34. The company has a market capitalization of $1.05 billion, a PE ratio of 13.26 and a beta of 0.85. RPC Announces Dividend Wall Street Analyst Weigh In The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 9th were issued a $0.04 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 9th. This represents a $0.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.35%. RPCs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 44.44%. RES has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Citigroup upgraded RPC from a sell rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price objective for the company from $5.50 to $4.75 in a research report on Tuesday, April 8th. Piper Sandler set a $5.00 price objective on RPC and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Susquehanna reduced their price objective on RPC from $6.00 to $5.50 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Monday, April 14th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus reduced their price objective on RPC from $6.00 to $5.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, July 16th. View Our Latest Stock Report on RPC Institutional Investors Weigh In On RPC A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. boosted its position in RPC by 4.5% during the first quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 50,558 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $278,000 after purchasing an additional 2,190 shares during the period. AQR Capital Management LLC boosted its position in RPC by 1.1% during the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 544,365 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,994,000 after purchasing an additional 5,914 shares during the period. Finally, Strs Ohio bought a new stake in RPC during the first quarter worth approximately $92,000. 41.06% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About RPC (Get Free Report) RPC, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages provision of a range of oilfield services and equipment for the oil and gas companies involved in the exploration, production, and development of oil and gas properties. The company operates through Technical Services and Support Services segments. The Technical Services segment offers pressure pumping, fracturing, acidizing, cementing, downhole tools, coiled tubing, snubbing, nitrogen, well control, wireline, pump down, and fishing services that are used in the completion, production, and maintenance of oil and gas wells. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for RPC Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RPC and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PPG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:PPG Free Report) Equities researchers at Seaport Res Ptn increased their Q3 2025 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of PPG Industries in a note issued to investors on Friday, July 18th. Seaport Res Ptn analyst M. Harrison now forecasts that the specialty chemicals company will post earnings of $2.16 per share for the quarter, up from their previous estimate of $2.13. The consensus estimate for PPG Industries current full-year earnings is $7.95 per share. Seaport Res Ptn also issued estimates for PPG Industries FY2025 earnings at $7.99 EPS. Get PPG Industries alerts: Other research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the company. Citigroup lifted their target price on PPG Industries from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, June 13th. UBS Group lifted their target price on PPG Industries from $111.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price objective on PPG Industries from $125.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, May 12th. Bank of America reissued a neutral rating and issued a $126.00 price objective (down from $143.00) on shares of PPG Industries in a report on Tuesday, April 15th. Finally, Fermium Researc raised PPG Industries to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, May 1st. Nine research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, PPG Industries currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $129.45. PPG Industries Stock Performance NYSE PPG opened at $115.35 on Monday. PPG Industries has a 1-year low of $90.24 and a 1-year high of $137.24. The company has a market capitalization of $26.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.70, a PEG ratio of 2.40 and a beta of 1.16. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $113.18 and a 200 day moving average price of $111.96. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 1.35 and a quick ratio of 0.99. PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 29th. The specialty chemicals company reported $1.72 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.10. PPG Industries had a return on equity of 24.84% and a net margin of 6.49%. The company had revenue of $3.68 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.67 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.87 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 4.3% on a year-over-year basis. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in PPG. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in PPG Industries by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 249,755 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $27,311,000 after acquiring an additional 1,697 shares during the period. Clear Creek Financial Management LLC bought a new stake in PPG Industries in the 1st quarter valued at $240,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in PPG Industries by 2.6% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 29,369,691 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock valued at $3,508,210,000 after buying an additional 756,937 shares during the last quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. increased its stake in PPG Industries by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 302,962 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock valued at $33,129,000 after buying an additional 12,650 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bell Asset Management Ltd acquired a new stake in PPG Industries in the 4th quarter valued at $6,955,000. Institutional investors own 81.86% of the companys stock. PPG Industries Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 12th. Investors of record on Monday, August 11th will be paid a $0.71 dividend. This represents a $2.84 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.46%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 11th. This is a boost from PPG Industriess previous quarterly dividend of $0.68. PPG Industriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 60.81%. About PPG Industries (Get Free Report) PPG Industries, Inc manufactures and distributes paints, coatings, and specialty materials in the United States, Canada, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through two segments, Performance Coatings and Industrial Coatings. The Performance Coatings segment offers coatings, solvents, adhesives, sealants, sundries, and software for automotive and commercial transport/fleet repair and refurbishing, light industrial coatings, and specialty coatings for signs; wood stains; paints, thermoplastics, pavement marking products, and other advanced technologies for pavement marking for government, commercial infrastructure, painting, and maintenance contractors; and coatings, sealants, transparencies, transparent armor, adhesives, engineered materials, and packaging and chemical management services for commercial, military, regional jet, and general aviation aircraft. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for PPG Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PPG Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (TSE:AEM Free Report) (NYSE:AEM) Research analysts at Stifel Canada boosted their Q2 2025 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research report issued on Monday, July 21st. Stifel Canada analyst R. Profiti now forecasts that the company will earn $2.41 per share for the quarter, up from their prior forecast of $2.27. The consensus estimate for Agnico Eagle Mines current full-year earnings is $5.50 per share. Stifel Canada also issued estimates for Agnico Eagle Mines FY2027 earnings at $8.75 EPS. Get Agnico Eagle Mines alerts: AEM has been the subject of several other research reports. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their target price on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from C$185.00 to C$195.00 in a research report on Monday, April 28th. UBS Group cut Agnico Eagle Mines from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, March 31st. Cfra Research raised Agnico Eagle Mines to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, April 25th. TD Securities upgraded Agnico Eagle Mines to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upgraded Agnico Eagle Mines to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 15th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, two have assigned a buy rating and five have issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Agnico Eagle Mines presently has a consensus rating of Strong Buy and a consensus target price of C$152.00. Agnico Eagle Mines Price Performance AEM opened at C$175.02 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 1.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.88. The company has a market cap of C$61.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 61.49, a P/E/G ratio of 22.97 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a 50 day moving average of C$162.85 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$151.00. Agnico Eagle Mines has a 52-week low of C$99.05 and a 52-week high of C$176.62. Agnico Eagle Mines Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 16th. Investors of record on Monday, June 16th were issued a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.91%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 30th. Agnico Eagle Miness payout ratio is 76.24%. Insider Transactions at Agnico Eagle Mines In other news, Senior Officer Jean Robitaille sold 11,904 shares of Agnico Eagle Mines stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$170.50, for a total value of C$2,029,632.00. Also, Senior Officer Guy Gosselin sold 3,527 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$157.50, for a total transaction of C$555,502.50. Insiders have sold a total of 45,632 shares of company stock valued at $7,657,810 in the last 90 days. 0.08% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Agnico Eagle Mines Company Profile (Get Free Report) Agnico Eagle Mines is a gold miner operating mines in Canada, Mexico, and Finland. It also owns 50% of the Canadian Malartic mine. Agnico operated just one mine, LaRonde, as recently as 2008 before bringing its other mines on line in rapid succession in the following years. The company produced more than 1.7 million gold ounces in 2020. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LILONGWE, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Malawi's 2019-2025 Parliament has been dissolved ahead of the Sept. 16 general elections, which will usher in a president, parliamentarians, and local government leaders for the 2025-2030 term. Speaker of the National Assembly Catherine Gotani Hara made the announcement on Wednesday, noting that the dissolution is a constitutional requirement in a year when general elections are pending. According to the speaker, all operations of the National Assembly involving members of parliament, including legislation, oversight, and representation, have ceased following the dissolution. However, Hara has indicated the possibility of reconvening the National Assembly under particular circumstances, as stipulated in the country's Constitution. The speaker said in a statement that if the president deems a constitutional crisis or emergency has arisen between the dissolution of the National Assembly and the general elections, he may reconvene the parliament solely for that purpose. At least 20 presidential candidates are expected to present their nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission from July 24 to 30. They include incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera of the governing Malawi Congress Party, former President Peter Mutharika on the Democratic Progressive Party ticket, former President Joyce Banda with the People's Party, and former Reserve Bank Governor Dalitso Kabambe with the United Transformation Movement. Eldorado Gold Co. (TSE:ELD Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) Stock analysts at Stifel Canada issued their Q2 2025 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of Eldorado Gold in a research note issued to investors on Monday, July 21st. Stifel Canada analyst I. Rico forecasts that the company will post earnings per share of $0.64 for the quarter. The consensus estimate for Eldorado Golds current full-year earnings is $2.15 per share. Stifel Canada also issued estimates for Eldorado Golds FY2026 earnings at $3.49 EPS. Get Eldorado Gold alerts: Separately, Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on Eldorado Gold from C$25.00 to C$29.00 in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Eldorado Gold Stock Performance Shares of TSE ELD opened at C$28.52 on Wednesday. Eldorado Gold has a one year low of C$18.94 and a one year high of C$29.78. The businesss 50-day moving average price is C$27.69 and its two-hundred day moving average price is C$24.63. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 23.28, a current ratio of 3.37 and a quick ratio of 2.28. The company has a market capitalization of C$4.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.85, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 56.20 and a beta of 1.22. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Senior Officer Christos Balaskas sold 2,367 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$29.51, for a total transaction of C$69,850.17. Also, Senior Officer Graham Magnus Morrison sold 12,207 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, June 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$28.93, for a total value of C$353,092.36. In the last three months, insiders sold 185,501 shares of company stock valued at $5,380,236. 0.58% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. About Eldorado Gold (Get Free Report) Eldorado Gold Corp is a gold and base metals producer with mining, development and exploration operations in Turkey, Canada, Greece and Romania. It has a portfolio of high-quality assets and long-term partnerships with local communities. Some of its projects include Kisladag, Efemcukuru, Skouries; Perama Hill and Certej projects. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Eldorado Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eldorado Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Summit Wealth Partners LLC lifted its position in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV Free Report) by 31.0% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 18,273 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 4,319 shares during the period. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF makes up about 2.1% of Summit Wealth Partners LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 13th largest position. Summit Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF were worth $10,268,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of IVV. IMA Advisory Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF during the first quarter worth about $118,000. Carbahal Olsen Financial Services Group LLC boosted its stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. Carbahal Olsen Financial Services Group LLC now owns 46,831 shares of the companys stock worth $26,314,000 after purchasing an additional 435 shares in the last quarter. City National Bank of Florida MSD grew its position in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 6.9% during the 1st quarter. City National Bank of Florida MSD now owns 50,353 shares of the companys stock worth $28,293,000 after purchasing an additional 3,272 shares during the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC grew its position in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 5.1% during the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 16,758 shares of the companys stock worth $9,417,000 after purchasing an additional 818 shares during the last quarter. Finally, JPL Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 55.1% during the 1st quarter. JPL Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,180 shares of the companys stock valued at $620,000 after purchasing an additional 419 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 70.12% of the companys stock. Get iShares Core S&P 500 ETF alerts: iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Price Performance Shares of IVV opened at $631.74 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $606.13 and its 200-day moving average price is $585.82. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF has a 1-year low of $484.00 and a 1-year high of $634.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $636.54 billion, a PE ratio of 25.10 and a beta of 1.00. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Profile iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization sector of the United States equity market. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IVV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core S&P 500 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Summit Wealth Partners LLC cut its position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:EFAV Free Report) by 3.1% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 4,048 shares of the companys stock after selling 128 shares during the period. Summit Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $315,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in EFAV. Hanson & Doremus Investment Management bought a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $28,000. CX Institutional purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $32,000. Pineridge Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $38,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 5,660.0% during the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 576 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,000 after buying an additional 566 shares during the period. Finally, Capital Investment Advisory Services LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 241.1% during the 1st quarter. Capital Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 805 shares of the companys stock valued at $63,000 after buying an additional 569 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Price Performance Shares of EFAV opened at $83.74 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.91 and a beta of 0.57. iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF has a one year low of $69.19 and a one year high of $85.52. The business has a fifty day moving average of $83.53 and a 200 day moving average of $78.66. About iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF The iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (EFAV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI EAFE Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of developed-market equities, ex-US and Canada, selected and weighted to create a low volatility portfolio subject to constraints including sector exposure. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EFAV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:EFAV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. SYM FINANCIAL Corp decreased its position in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 5.4% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 5,942 shares of the companys stock after selling 341 shares during the quarter. Eli Lilly and Company makes up 0.6% of SYM FINANCIAL Corps portfolio, making the stock its 17th biggest holding. SYM FINANCIAL Corps holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $4,908,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of LLY. Accredited Investors Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. now owns 3,290 shares of the companys stock worth $2,717,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Somerville Kurt F raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 13.3% during the 1st quarter. Somerville Kurt F now owns 4,206 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,474,000 after purchasing an additional 494 shares in the last quarter. First National Bank of Hutchinson raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 5.6% during the 1st quarter. First National Bank of Hutchinson now owns 2,133 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,762,000 after purchasing an additional 114 shares in the last quarter. Zevin Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at $10,353,000. Finally, DeDora Capital Inc. raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 10.3% during the 1st quarter. DeDora Capital Inc. now owns 2,758 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,278,000 after purchasing an additional 257 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 1.9% NYSE:LLY opened at $776.47 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.06, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18. The stocks fifty day moving average is $767.03 and its two-hundred day moving average is $800.17. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52 week low of $677.09 and a 52 week high of $972.53. The stock has a market capitalization of $735.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 63.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.10 and a beta of 0.40. Eli Lilly and Company Dividend Announcement Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The company reported $3.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.64 by ($1.30). Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 22.67% and a return on equity of 85.51%. The company had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.77 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $2.58 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 45.2% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.77%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is 48.82%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In LLY has been the topic of several research analyst reports. UBS Group dropped their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $1,100.00 to $1,050.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, May 2nd. Wall Street Zen downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, June 28th. Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Tuesday, April 22nd. They set an overweight rating and a $975.00 target price on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a neutral rating to a buy rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $892.00 to $888.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and set a $1,135.00 target price (up from $1,133.00) on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and sixteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $1,012.56. Get Our Latest Analysis on Eli Lilly and Company Eli Lilly and Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tesco PLC (OTCMKTS:TSCDY Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $17.29 and last traded at $17.28, with a volume of 2252 shares. The stock had previously closed at $16.92. Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating on shares of Tesco in a research report on Tuesday, June 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, two have given a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Buy. Get Tesco alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on Tesco Tesco Stock Up 1.0% Tesco Increases Dividend The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a current ratio of 0.64 and a quick ratio of 0.44. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $16.13 and its 200-day simple moving average is $14.73. The business also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Monday, July 7th. Investors of record on Monday, May 19th were issued a $0.3636 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 16th. This is a boost from Tescos previous dividend of $0.17. This represents a yield of 3.44%. Tesco Company Profile (Get Free Report) Tesco PLC, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a grocery retailer in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. It offers grocery products through its stores, as well as online. The company is also involved in the food and drink wholesaling activities. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Tesco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tesco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Next Capital Management LLC increased its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 4.6% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,142 shares of the investment management companys stock after purchasing an additional 50 shares during the quarter. Next Capital Management LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $624,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Kidder Stephen W boosted its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 44.8% in the first quarter. Kidder Stephen W now owns 970 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $530,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares during the last quarter. Oak Thistle LLC bought a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,276,000. Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 2.7% in the 1st quarter. Quadrant Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,612 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,427,000 after acquiring an additional 68 shares during the period. Proficio Capital Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 8,007 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $4,387,000 after purchasing an additional 91 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich boosted its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 82.3% during the first quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 1,628 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $889,000 after purchasing an additional 735 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance NYSE GS opened at $701.04 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $437.37 and a 12-month high of $726.00. The company has a market capitalization of $215.11 billion, a PE ratio of 15.45, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.50 and a beta of 1.35. The firms 50 day moving average is $647.01 and its 200-day moving average is $601.27. The Goldman Sachs Group Increases Dividend The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, July 16th. The investment management company reported $10.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $9.82 by $1.09. The company had revenue of $14.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.53 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 12.37% and a return on equity of 13.84%. The Goldman Sachs Groups quarterly revenue was up 14.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $8.62 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be paid a $4.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $16.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.28%. This is an increase from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 35.26%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have weighed in on GS shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $625.00 to $614.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 3rd. Daiwa America lowered The Goldman Sachs Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, April 4th. Citigroup boosted their price target on The Goldman Sachs Group from $550.00 to $700.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $680.00 to $715.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, JMP Securities restated a market perform rating and set a $600.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Monday, July 14th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $660.00. Read Our Latest Research Report on GS About The Goldman Sachs Group (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ames National Corp raised its holdings in shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV Free Report) by 1.2% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 6,617 shares of the insurance providers stock after purchasing an additional 80 shares during the period. Travelers Companies accounts for approximately 1.2% of Ames National Corps portfolio, making the stock its 22nd biggest holding. Ames National Corps holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $1,750,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of TRV. FMR LLC grew its stake in shares of Travelers Companies by 1.6% in the 4th quarter. FMR LLC now owns 14,277,851 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $3,439,392,000 after buying an additional 229,160 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 3.6% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,258,490 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,269,321,000 after purchasing an additional 182,270 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 1.9% in the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 3,752,484 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $903,937,000 after purchasing an additional 70,036 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 236.9% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 3,507,219 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $844,854,000 after purchasing an additional 2,466,098 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 7.8% in the 4th quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 3,377,966 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $813,704,000 after purchasing an additional 243,484 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock. Get Travelers Companies alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, EVP Maria Olivo sold 36,199 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $274.20, for a total value of $9,925,765.80. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 118,116 shares in the company, valued at $32,387,407.20. This trade represents a 23.46% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Gregory C. Toczydlowski sold 11,505 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, July 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $266.12, for a total value of $3,061,710.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 18,416 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,900,865.92. This represents a 38.45% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 175,374 shares of company stock valued at $47,929,912 in the last 90 days. 1.46% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on TRV shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their target price on Travelers Companies from $304.00 to $316.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price target on Travelers Companies from $265.00 to $270.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Friday, April 11th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Travelers Companies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Evercore ISI upped their price target on Travelers Companies from $288.00 to $296.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, April 17th. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $269.00 price target on Travelers Companies and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, May 19th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have assigned a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $275.56. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Travelers Companies Travelers Companies Stock Performance Travelers Companies stock opened at $266.84 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27, a current ratio of 0.33 and a quick ratio of 0.33. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $265.92 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $256.46. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a 52-week low of $205.24 and a 52-week high of $277.83. The firm has a market capitalization of $60.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.80, a P/E/G ratio of 3.32 and a beta of 0.51. Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 17th. The insurance provider reported $6.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.52 by $2.99. Travelers Companies had a return on equity of 18.68% and a net margin of 10.97%. The firm had revenue of $11.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.02 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.51 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 EPS for the current fiscal year. Travelers Companies Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, September 10th will be paid a $1.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, September 10th. This represents a $4.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.65%. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 19.46%. Travelers Companies Company Profile (Free Report) The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Travelers Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Travelers Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ignite Planners LLC lifted its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 22.8% in the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 4,395 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 816 shares during the period. Ignite Planners LLCs holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $316,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of WFC. Investment Counsel Co. of Nevada acquired a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. BNP Paribas purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter worth about $28,000. Parvin Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter worth about $32,000. Dunhill Financial LLC raised its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 63.7% during the 4th quarter. Dunhill Financial LLC now owns 496 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 193 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Orion Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter worth about $35,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 75.90% of the companys stock. Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts: Wells Fargo & Company Stock Up 2.7% Shares of NYSE:WFC opened at $82.46 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $268.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.12, a PEG ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. Wells Fargo & Company has a 12-month low of $50.15 and a 12-month high of $83.95. The businesss 50 day moving average is $77.14 and its 200 day moving average is $74.24. Wells Fargo & Company ( NYSE:WFC Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.41 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $20.82 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.83 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 12.29% and a net margin of 16.82%. The businesss revenue was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.33 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Wells Fargo & Company declared that its board has initiated a share repurchase program on Tuesday, April 29th that permits the company to repurchase $40.00 billion in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to repurchase up to 17.2% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are often a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Wells Fargo & Company Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Sunday, June 1st. Investors of record on Friday, May 9th were given a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.94%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 9th. Wells Fargo & Companys payout ratio is 27.40%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have issued reports on the company. Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Dbs Bank upgraded Wells Fargo & Company from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Phillip Securities cut Wells Fargo & Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their target price on Wells Fargo & Company from $82.00 to $73.50 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 3rd. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $80.39. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on WFC Wells Fargo & Company Profile (Free Report) Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. UNITED NATIONS, July 22 (Xinhua) -- China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, on Tuesday rejected U.S. accusations against China over the South China Sea. It is the United States that has been stirring up trouble, sowing discord, and undermining regional trust in the South China Sea, said Fu in response to accusations against China by a U.S. representative at a Security Council meeting. China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao -- known in English as the South China Sea islands -- and their adjacent waters. China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea have sufficient historical and jurisprudential basis, said Fu. China's position on the South China Sea arbitration case has always been consistent and clear. China does not accept or recognize the so-called arbitration award and rejects any claims or actions based on it, he told a Security Council open debate on multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes. In fact, in recent years, through joint efforts with countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the overall situation in the South China Sea has remained stable. There is no problem with the freedom of navigation and overflight, Fu said. China has consistently worked with all concerned countries to properly manage differences over the South China Sea through dialogue and consultation, based on respect for historical facts and international law, he added. "The United States, in complete disregard of the historical context and objective facts concerning the South China Sea, has been stirring up trouble, sowing discord, and undermining regional trust," he said. To date, the United States has not acceded to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Yet it frequently acts as if it were the judge of the convention, issuing directives to and interfering in the affairs of other countries. This is utterly absurd, said Fu. The United States also deploys offensive weapons in the South China Sea region, such as land-based intermediate-range missiles, and frequently sends its large, advanced ships and aircraft to conduct military reconnaissance and exercises under the guise of freedom of navigation, and blatantly intrudes into China's territorial waters and airspace, he said. "Who is truly trying to stir up trouble in the South China Sea and disrupt the region is well known to all. Who is engaging in coercion and bullying in the South China Sea, threatening freedom of navigation, is self-evident," said Fu. WELLINGTON, July 23 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand will end greyhound racing by July 31, 2026, with the government prioritizing animal welfare and support for affected industry members. An interim report released on Tuesday outlined plans to rehome around 1,500 greyhounds expected to remain when racing ends. The Ministerial Advisory Committee, which drafted the report, has been established to guide the phase-out of greyhound racing in New Zealand, said Racing Minister Winston Peters. The committee is collaborating with industry, welfare groups, and agencies to plan a practical transition, Peters said. Cabinet will review the committee's recommendations, with legislation to follow public consultation. If passed, New Zealand will be among the few countries to ban greyhound racing on animal welfare grounds. VIENTIANE, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Industry and Commerce has convened a meeting to review the draft 2026-2030 industrial and trade development plan. The meeting was held on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, chaired by Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaithong Kommasith, and attended by officials from relevant sectors, according to a report from the ministry on Wednesday. The meeting aimed to discuss and refine the draft plan to ensure it aligns with rapidly changing regional and global dynamics and supports the 10th five-year national socio-economic development plan for 2026-2030. In addition, discussions focused on developing a clear and actionable plan, expected to play a vital role in strengthening Laos' economic growth, enhancing sustainability, and boosting international competitiveness. IDP found dead | Moirang, Jul 22 : A 13-year-old student, who was an internally displaced person (IDP), was found dead near Saiton Bazar in Bishnupur today. The young boy, a Class VI student, was reportedly found hanging from a gulmohar tree near his school's boarding facility at Lamjing Meira Maheikol School, close to Saiton Bazar under the jurisdiction of Phougakchao Ikhai police station in Bishnupur today. He was an inmate at the boarding. According to police, the deceased has been identified as Phuritsabam Santosh @ Piktru, s/o Phuritsabam Ningthem of Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai Ward no 1 under Torbung Gram Panchayat. It is reported that Santosh was taken to Kwakta Primary Health Centre (PHC) by the school authority, where the doctor declared him dead. The corpse has been deposited at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) mortuary after a spot inquiry was conducted by the Forensic Science Manipur's Bishnupur team. A case of unnatural death (UD) has been registered at Phougakchao Ikhai police station, and an investigation has been initiated. Meanwhile, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) has been formed, suspecting foul play in the death with K Kegesana as its chairman. Speaking to the media, JAC convenor Kh Jaya said that they suspect Santosh's death was not a suicide. According to her, the JAC has adopted five resolutions, urging the authority to reveal the truth behind the death within five days, investigate the school authority, penalize those found responsible for Santosh's death, and provide adequate compensation to the deceased's family. She stated that the family will not claim Santosh's body until their demands are met and added that they will launch an agitation if their demands are not fulfilled within five days. Moirangthem Herojit, an assistant teacher at Lamjing Meira Maheikol School, described Santosh as an average student with good moral character. Stating that Santosh didn't exhibit any abnormal behaviour last night, he added that the student was found hanging by their cook at around 4.26 am. The teacher said that he rushed to the scene shortly after he was informed about the incident, lifted the student down and checked his heartbeat. Saying that Santosh was taken to Kwakta PHC after informing the school's founder, he added that the doctor, however, declared the student dead on arrival. He said that the school's boarding assigned morning duty to its students, and today was Santosh's group's turn. Herojit mentioned that Santosh and two friends went out at 3.49 am, but his friends returned to their rooms, whereas Santosh was later found hanging by the boarding's cook. U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the United States has reached a trade deal with Japan, which would impose a 15 percent U.S. tariff on Japanese goods. #XinhuaNews Asansol Municipal Corporation (AMC) has received approval to establish 93 health and wellness centres within its jurisdiction. Land has already been identified for 61 of these proposed centres. A high-level meeting was held in Asansol, attended by Biswajeet Bhattacharya, sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Asansol Sadar; Dr Sheikh Mohammed Yunous, chief medical officer of health (CMOH) for Paschim Bardhaman; officials from various departments; and representatives from AMC. Advertisement SDM Bhattacharya stated that the meeting focused on identifying suitable land for the remaining 32 centres. So far, 38 health and wellness centres have been constructed, of which seven are operational. Construction is ongoing at 23 sites. Advertisement According to state health department guidelines, one health and wellness centre is to be established per 15,000 people. These centres will offer not only primary healthcare services but also twelve categories of health facilities, including telemedicine. Each of the 93 centres will be staffed with a doctor and a nurse. However, due to a legal issue, doctors cannot currently be appointed at 31 completed centres. To cater to the population spread across AMCs 106 wards, 93 centres have been approved by the state government. AMC officials stated that each centre will cost approximately Rs 35 lakh to set up. Basic pathological and blood tests will also be available at these facilities. Mayor Bidhan Upadhyay and chairman Amar Nath Chatterjee expressed optimism that all outstanding issues would be resolved soon, enabling the formal inauguration of the centres following the appointment of new medical personnel. Incidentally, Aditi Chaudhury, recently took charge as commissioner of Asansol Municipal Corporation, replacing Raju Mishra, who has been transferred to the department of commerce and industry as secretary. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has sent a letter to the chief secretary Manoj Pant seeking autonomous status for the chief electoral officer (CEO) office in the state. The ECI has asked Mr Pant to take necessary initiatives so that the CEO office gets autonomy soon. As per the existing system, the CEO office in the state is under the home and hill affairs department. Besides West Bengal, CEO offices in other states enjoy autonomy in terms of financial and administrative functions. Advertisement The ECIs letter to the Mamata Banerjee government hardly 11 months ahead of the Assembly polls scheduled in the state has caused a political stir. Advertisement the Commission has noted lack of financial and administrative autonomy available to CEO, West Bengal in the existing arrangement, wherein the CEOs office functions with limited financial powers relying on a minor permanent advance from the finance department. Further, the CEOs office has been categorized as a subordinate branch of the Home & Hill Affairs Department, which is led by a Principal Secretary level officer whereas the CEO himself is of ACS rank, the election commissions letter, dated 17 July, stated. In light of the above, and keeping in view of the requirements of functional and institutional independence, the commission has directed the state government to take actions immediately. The ECI has asked Mr Pant saying: Creation of a separate election department, completely delinked from any other department of the state government. The election department should have a dedicated budget head. This will facilitate full financial and administrative autonomy to the CEO, as required for the effective and impartial conduct of elections. Delegation of suitable financial powers at par with ACS/Pr Secretary/ Secretary of other departments be given to the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal. A separate Financial Advisor needs to be posted in the Election Department to assist the CEO in effective discharge of his official duties, the letter in possession of The Statesman states. It also states, Further, in view of upcoming elections to the Legislative Assembly of West Bengal, to ensure institutional preparedness and seamless coordination, you are also requested to fill up the four vacant posts of Addl/Joint/Deputy CEOs, in the CEO office. ACS stands for additional chief secretary while Pr Secretary is Principal Secretary. Political observers felt that the ECI has taken such drastic steps in order to revise the electoral rolls in the state. Citizens looking forward to the opening of the Metro link between Esplanade and Sealdah might have to wait for some more time. The authorities of Kolkata Metro Railway are considering the final commissioning of the remaining leg of the East-West Corridor from Sealdah to Esplanade and Bimanbandar to Noapara stretch of the Metro networks. According to official sources, the Sealdah-Esplanade stretch is being readied with intensive trial runs generally needed before the final commissioning. The tests are to be continued for some more weeks. On the other side, the stretch between Jai Hind Bimanbandar to Noapara stations of Yellow Line is also being readied for final commissioning. Advertisement The general manager of Kolkata Metro Railway, P Uday Kumar Reddy, also inspected the stretch between Jai Hind Bimanbandar to Noapara stations of Yellow Line yesterday with senior officials of Metro Railway. A trial run was also conducted with the rake MR 413 between Jai Hind Bimanbandar to Noapara stations in presence of the General Manager and other senior officers. Advertisement A third project of the city Metro, for which numerous commuters are waiting for an inaugural, is the subway connecting Howrah railway station and Howrah Metro station. The upcoming subway directly leading to the Metro station would make the process much easier for commuters. The upcoming subway has been constructed beside platform No. 15 of the existing Howrah railway station with the other end at the Metro station. The L shaped subway is designed strategically to allow movement of visitors from two ends. It is also to include entry/exit points from platforms-15 and 16 of the existing railway station and converge at the concourse level through escalators and stairs. According to official sources, the three Metro projects, whenever opened for commercial services, are anticipated to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a mega event. However, as anticipated by some senior Metro railway officials, this could take some more time. Defying steady rains, a spirited gathering of residents, academicians, lawyers, and civic leaders convened near the historic Midnapore Collegiate School on Sunday, rallying under umbrellas and tarpaulins not just to escape the downpourbut to defend the dignity of their towns heroic past. The protest, organised by the Lawyers Forum of Midnapore Judges Court, erupted in response to a contentious question in a Vidyasagar University history honours examination paper that referred to freedom fighters as terrorists. Advertisement The offending question, which asked students to name the three district magistrates killed by terrorists in the 1930s, has not only sparked academic outrage but also bruised the collective pride of Midnapores people, who hold the sacrifices of their revolutionaries as sacred chapters of Indias anti-colonial struggle. Advertisement This is not a mere academic lapseits an insult to the sacrifices of countless martyrs from Midnapore whose blood paved the path to Indias independence, thundered Somen Khan, chairman of Midnapore Municipality, addressing the crowd. He, alongside former Midnapore College political science professor Jagabandhu Adhikari, lambasted the universitys board of moderators and the question paper setter, holding them responsible for the gross misrepresentation of history. Speakers across the spectrum expressed deep anguish, asserting that while colonial rulers might have branded the revolutionaries as terrorists, independent India must never echo such terminology. This is a disgrace. We have informed the chief minister and the higher education minister of West Bengal. If necessary, we will seek legal recourse against the university authorities, said Mr Adhikari. The convention was marked by fervent calls to officially recognise Midnapores unparalleled contribution to the freedom struggle, especially its unique history of political assassinations of British magistrates by young revolutionaries. Midnapore holds the infamous record of losing three district magistratesDouglas, Burge, and Paddybetween 1931 and 1934, felled by daring revolutionary acts. Adding a poignant dimension to the discussion, a woman speaker stirred the audience by highlighting the oft-forgotten role of commercial sex workers in aiding the freedom fighters. These women risked their lives, providing shelter to revolutionaries and serving as conduits for secret information, all under the watchful eyes of colonial police, she said, demanding their inclusion in historical narratives taught in colleges. The gathering unanimously resolved to press for the correction of the academic content and to campaign for the inclusion of comprehensive, nuanced accounts of Midnapores revolutionary heritage in university curricula. The controversy comes at a time when historical interpretations are increasingly becoming flashpoints for public discourse. For Midnapore, this is not just about historyit is about reclaiming honour from the shadows of misrepresentation. Indias leadership in developing a group standard for whole millet grains was appreciated during the 88th Session of the Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CCEXEC88), held at the FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy from July 14-18, it was announced on Saturday. The Committee reviewed the progress of this work, which is being chaired by India with Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal as co-chairs, said Health Ministry in a statement. Advertisement The terms of reference for the same were finalized at the 11th Session of the Codex Committee on Cereals, Pulses and Legumes (CCCPL11) held in April 2025. Advertisement CCEXEC88 critically reviewed the works chaired by India on the new standards of fresh dates as recommended by the 23rd session of Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (CCFFV23) held in February this year. The Executive Committee appreciated the efforts of the CCFFV and India in finalizing these standards and endorsed them for further approval at the 48th session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC48) scheduled for November 2025. India will also serve as co-chair in new work proposals to develop standards for fresh turmeric and fresh broccoli. India actively participated in discussions on the monitoring framework for the Codex Strategic Plan 20262031, where SMART Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were finalized for endorsement at CAC48. According to the ministry, the country recommended that monitoring indicators should be outcome-based, measurable and considered. India also informed about its capacity building programme for neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste etc., which has been recognised by FAO. It is noteworthy that India has been chairing the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) since its inception in 2014. India also encouraged less active Codex member countries to utilize the Codex Trust Fund (CTF) for mentorship and twinning programmes. Drawing from its successful CTF-supported training and capacity building initiatives with Bhutan and Nepal, India proposed the inclusion of such training efforts as indicators toward achieving strategic goals. The Delhi Police have arrested a BSF constable who allegedly robbed a jewellery store using a toy gun in broad daylight. The accused was reportedly inspired by crime shows and driven by losses incurred in online gambling, an official said on Wednesday. The 22-year-old accused, Gaurav Yadav, had joined the Border Security Force (BSF) in 2023 and completed his training in May. He was posted in Punjabs Fazilka. Advertisement On June 18, a day before the robbery, he took leave and travelled to Delhi, where he planned the heist while waiting to switch trains, said Prashant Gautam, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara), in a statement. Advertisement The robbery took place on June 19 at a jewellery store in Farsh Bazar, where a man entered the store wielding what appeared to be a pistol and made off with four gold bracelets before fleeing on foot. A case was registered under Section 309(4) (robbery) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Farsh Bazar Police Station, and an investigation was launched. During the investigation, police conducted technical surveillance, reviewed CCTV footage, call detail records (CDRs), Internet Protocol Detail Record (IPDR) dump data, and raised multiple queries on the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID). After sustained efforts and detailed analysis, the accused was identified as a BSF constable posted in Fazilka, Punjab, the DCP said. Following this lead, a raid was carried out at his native village in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, where he was apprehended. During sustained interrogation, he confessed to committing the crime. According to the police, Yadav had developed a gambling addiction, suffered significant financial losses, and conceived the robbery after watching crime shows. He purchased a toy pistol from a local shop and used it to carry out the robbery. Afterward, he travelled to Meerut, then Lucknow, and finally returned to his hometown in Shivpuri, where he sold two of the stolen bracelets and deposited Rs 2 lakh into a bank account, the DCP added. During the investigation, police recovered two gold bracelets from his residence and traced the bank account where the Rs 2 lakh was deposited. Gaurav Yadav had no prior criminal record, the police stated, adding that further investigation is underway. In a major administrative overhaul, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has initiated the process of inducting over a hundred experienced engineers on deputation to address critical gaps in its technical workforce. This large-scale recruitment drive aims to strengthen the citys water supply and sewerage systems, which have suffered in recent years due to staff shortages and infrastructure stress. Advertisement Engineers from Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical (E&M) disciplines including Superintending Engineers, Executive Engineers, and Assistant Engineers will be brought in from various government departments and public sector agencies. Advertisement Notably, the move comes close on the heels of monsoon-related challenges and a surge in urban water demand in the national capital. Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma, who has approved the plan, described it as a decisive step to ensure timely, efficient, and accountable service delivery. Verma stated, Water and sewerage projects in Delhi have suffered due to a lack of adequate technical staff. By appointing over 100 engineers on deputation, we are strengthening the backbone of the Delhi Jal Board. With experienced officers on the ground, our projects will be delivered faster, maintenance will improve, and the people of Delhi will no longer be left to suffer due to systemic inefficiencies. The minister emphasized that only engineers with proven track records and relevant expertise will be considered, and that the deputation process is being conducted in a time-bound and transparent manner to ensure swift deployment. The initiative is expected to have a far-reaching impact, including expediting the implementation of ongoing water and sewerage projects, improving response times for emergency repairs and flood management, strengthening field-level execution and infrastructure monitoring, and ensuring better accountability and technical oversight. With this move, the Delhi government is reinforcing its commitment to resolving institutional bottlenecks and building a responsive, technically capable water board. The Delhi Police has cracked a cyber fraud case by arresting a 24-year-old man who operated a syndicate that duped people by falsely promising them IPO allocations at discounted rates. The accused, identified as Vishnu Kant Sharma, is a resident of Rajasthan. Advertisement The case came to light after a complainant, who lost approximately 40 lakh, reported being added to a WhatsApp group named Yes Securities by Sharma, said Deputy Commissioner of Police Vichitra Veer. Advertisement They promised the victim guaranteed IPO allocations at cheaper rates and directed him to visit a fake website and deposit large sums into various accounts, the officer added. Following the complaint, a case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and an investigation was launched. During the inquiry, it was revealed that the defrauded amount had been transferred into multiple bank accounts. The accused was found to be converting the money into cryptocurrency on a daily basis and selling it. Based on technical analysis and tracking of financial transactions, the police identified Sharma as the mastermind. He was arrested from Sanganer, Jaipur. Investigations further revealed that Sharma, who had earlier worked in the furniture business, had shifted to cybercrime and was providing mule bank accounts on a commission basis. He sourced bank accounts from known contacts and supplied them for fraudulent use, earning his commission in USDT (a cryptocurrency), the DCP stated. To improve the national capitals flood management capabilities, the Delhi government will submit an official request to the Haryana government to transfer control over the ITO barrage, an official said on Wednesday. He further added that the Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma has approved the plan and is likely to take the matter up with Haryana. In July 2023, parts of Delhi were severely flooded after onethree lakh cusecs of water were released from the Hathnikund Barrage, as the non-functional gates of the ITO Barrage failed to regulate the flow. Advertisement According to a government official, to prevent a flood-like situation similar to 2023, the gates have been repaired and are being continually monitored. However, they will also request Haryana to hand over the barrage for better management. Advertisement The previous Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), had also flagged the lack of maintenance of the barrage and requested that its ownership be transferred to the Delhi government. The official highlighted that flood-prone areas in the capital are located near the ITO Barrage, and that heavy siltingblocking five of the 32 gatesis a major factor contributing to the citys inundation. As these gates on the east end of the barrage could not be opened at the peak water level of the Yamuna, the pressure was so high that the water started spilling onto areas, roads, and colonies situated along the river in the stretch between Wazirabad and ITO barrage, states an Irrigation and Flood Control department (I&FC) report on the flooding of 2023. After entering Delhi, the Yamuna flows through three barrages: the Wazirabad Barrage, maintained by the Delhi government; the ITO Barrage, maintained by the Haryana government; and the Okhla Barrage, maintained by the Uttar Pradesh government. MOSCOW, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The third round of Russia-Ukraine talks will be "difficult" due to the "diametrically opposed" draft memoranda on the settlement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday. Peskov confirmed that the Russian delegation, led by Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, has departed for Istanbul, Turkiye, for the negotiations scheduled for Wednesday evening. He added that the two countries will mainly discuss the draft memoranda exchanged during the second round of talks and the continued exchange of prisoners of war. Russia and Ukraine held two rounds of direct talks on May 16 and June 2 in Istanbul. During the second round, they agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange of seriously ill and wounded prisoners, soldiers under the age of 25, as well as the transfer of the bodies of fallen soldiers. In a major breakthrough against human trafficking, the Government Railway Police (GRP) at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station, with support from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), rescued 56 young women from the Capital Express on Monday evening. All the women, aged above 18, were reportedly being trafficked under the false promise of jobs in Bangalore. Acting on suspicion, GRP and RPF officials intercepted the group on-board the Capital Express, which was bound for Patnaa deviation from their stated destination of Bangalore. During preliminary interrogation, the girls claimed they were heading to Bangalore for employment opportunities arranged by two individuals. However, both Jitendra Kumar Paswan and Chandrima Kar, who were accompanying them, failed to produce any valid travel documents or job offer letters. Advertisement We became suspicious when we learned that a large group of women, allegedly en route to Bangalore for work, was instead travelling on a train to Bihar. This raised serious red flags, a senior GRP official said. Advertisement Based on a complaint filed by the RPF, Paswan and Kar were arrested and booked under Section 143(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). GRP has sought a six-day police remand for further investigation into the trafficking racket. The police have contacted the families of the rescued women and handed them back to their guardians. Authorities suspect this is part of a wider trafficking network and further arrests may follow. Arienne Mandi, known for her role in Netflixs The Night Agent, is stepping into a brand-new character in NBCs popular police drama Chicago P.D.. According to Deadline, Mandi has been cast as a series regular for the upcoming 13th season of the show. Advertisement Arienne Mandi will play Officer Naomi Kerr, a fearless former soldier and military contractor who now works with the Chicago Police Department. Her character is described as someone who isnt afraid to face danger and keeps her personal thoughts and emotions hidden. Naomi is seen as an outsider who doesnt open up easily, but shes sharp and thrives in high-pressure situations. Advertisement While character details might still change during production, fans can expect Naomi to bring a fresh energy and new challenges to the team, especially since shes joining at a time when the unit is facing serious turmoil. Season 13 picks up after the dramatic events involving the murder of Deputy Chief Charlie Reid, played by Shawn Hatosy. This shocking turn of events was reportedly carried out by Sergeant Hank Voight, the long-running and complex character portrayed by Jason Beghe. The unit is still dealing with the fallout from that storyline. At the same time, other characters are dealing with their own troubles. Officer Dante Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) and Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) had been under scrutiny for a secret affair between Torres and his confidential informant, which Burgess helped cover up. Although theyre no longer under investigation, its unclear what impact that storyline will continue to have. Regular cast members LaRoyce Hawkins and Patrick Flueger will also return for the new season. After all, that is the core of the Intelligence Unit. In the midst of new arrivals, one character is making an exit. Toya Turner, who played Officer Kiana Cook, has confirmed she wont be coming back for Season 13. Reflecting on her time with the show, she said, Im grateful for the time I had bringing Kiana to life. Thank you to everyone who welcomed me so warmly. Mandis career has been on the rise lately. Besides The Night Agent, she also stars in Tatami, a critically acclaimed film that premiered at the Venice Film Festival. She is also going to appear alongside Jon Hamm in Season 2 of Apple TV+s Your Friends & Neighbours. Ratan Thiyam, one of Indias most revered theatre directors and playwrights, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at the age of 77, following a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that redefined the contours of modern Indian theatre. Advertisement A pioneer in blending traditional Manipuri performance styles with contemporary stagecraft, Thiyam was a recipient of the Padma Shri in 1989 and numerous other national and international accolades. Advertisement Over several decades, he transformed the theatre landscape with his visionary direction, innovative staging, and deeply philosophical themes drawn from ancient texts, folklore, and pressing political realities. His death has sent ripples through the artistic and academic communities, with tributes pouring in from admirers worldwide. Many hailed him as an irreplaceable figure whose work placed Manipuri theatre on the global cultural map. Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed his grief on social media, stating: It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world of theatre but also our very identity. His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty. May his soul rest in peace and his spirit continue to live on in the works he leaves behind and in the countless lives he inspired. Ratan Thiyams enduring influence is evident in the generations of artists he mentored, the global recognition he brought to Manipuri theatre, and the profound questions his productions raised about society, identity, and the human condition. President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday met the probationers of the Indian Defence Estates Service, Military Engineer Services and Central Water Engineering Service at Rashtrapati Bhavan here. Addressing the Indian Defence Estates Service officers, the President said in this era of rapid technological transformation, the integration of digital solutions is a necessity. It is their duty to stay abreast of the technological advancements and apply them in their functioning. Advertisement She said Artificial Intelligence (AI), drone-based land surveys, satellite imagery, and blockchain for property record maintenance are no longer futuristic concepts, they are becoming part of governance. Advertisement The President advised them to embrace green practices in infrastructure development, adopt renewable energy solutions, reduce wastage, and ensure water conservation in cantonments. Addressing the Military Engineer Services officers, Murmu said as emerging leaders in the field of military construction, young MES officers have a crucial responsibility not only to build but to build with responsibility. She said they should focus on the adoption of renewable energy sources to promote sustainable development and reduce carbon footprint of defense infrastructure. The President expressed her joy to note that MES is actively promoting the use of indigenous materials and technologies under the Make in India initiative aligning with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Addressing the Central Water Engineering Service officers, Murmu said sustainable development of water resources and efficient management of water is key to water security and growth, especially in the wake of changing climatic trends. By providing clean water and promoting water conservation, India can improve public health, boost agricultural productivity, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources, the President said. She underlined that the contribution of Central Water Engineering Service officers towards water infrastructure development, by providing engineering solutions, will make the country more resilient against natural and man-made water crises. In a step towards bolstering disaster response and emergency healthcare, AIIMS-Bhubaneswar has received three sets of BHISHM cubes, a cutting-edge innovation under the Aarogya Maitri Project, developed by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) with the technical expertise of the Ministry of Defence. These modular, mobile medical kits are set to revolutionize the way emergency medical care is delivered, right at the heart of disaster zones. Advertisement Already operational in high-altitude terrains by the Indian Army and Air Force, BHISHM Cubes have also gained international recognition, having been deployed in Sri Lanka, Ukraine, and Myanmar. Advertisement BHISHM short for Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri, is more than just a medical kit. It is Indias commitment to life, resilience, and innovation. Designed to provide immediate trauma care to up to 200 disaster victims, one set of BHISHM cubes contains 338 essential items, including ayurvedic medicines, surgical tools, and even portable diagnostic devices. This is a noble integration of technology and humanitarian spirit. BHISHM Cubes enable life-saving treatment within the critical golden hour, preventing the loss of precious lives during disasters, said Dr. Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director, AIIMS-Bhubaneswar. A special team from the Health Ministry conducted a comprehensive training and demonstration session for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and disaster response teams at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar. This hands-on training aims to ensure rapid deployment and effective use of the cubes during emergencies. Each BHISHM cube, meticulously designed in 66 lightweight aluminium modules (each under 20 kg), can be easily transported and set up in just a couple of hours, a dramatic improvement over the traditional 12-hour setup time. The cubes include advanced Trauma Life Support tools, portable X-ray and ultrasound machines, refrigeration for temperature-sensitive medicines, generator-powered workstations, temporary accommodation for health staff and fully functional Operation Theatre setup. In disaster zones, time is life. BHISHM Cubes bridge the gap between rescue and treatment, ensuring last-mile medical support, emphasized retired Air Vice Marshal Dr. Tanmoy Roy, chief innovator and designer of the BHISHM Cube and former Chief Surgeon to the Indian Armed Forces. The training saw participation from key officials and medical professionals including DEAN Dr. P R Mohapatra, Dr. Satyajit Mishra, Dr. Soubhagya Kumar Jena, MS Dr. Dillip Kumar Parida, DDA Lt. Col. Abhijit Sarkar, T&E HoD Dr. Chittaranjan Mohany, Dr. Upendra Kumar Hansda, Dr. Jayanta Kumar Mitra, NDRF, OSDMA, and the AIIMS fraternity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a four-day trip to the United Kingdom and the Maldives on Wednesday. The four-day diplomatic tour aims to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade partnerships, technological innovation, defence collaboration, and regional cooperation. I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighborhood First Policy, PM Modi stated ahead of embarking on the trip. Advertisement Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III, PM Modi said in his statement. Advertisement In an immediate separate post, the Prime Minister said: Day after tomorrow, 25th July, I will be in the Maldives at the invitation of the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. I am honoured to be taking part in the 60th Independence Day celebrations of the Maldives. This year, we also mark 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. The talks with President Muizzu will certainly add momentum to bilateral ties across diverse sectors. During his visit to the UK, Modi will meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to enhance the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, discussing trade, economy, defence, innovation, climate action, healthcare, and education. He will also meet King Charles III during his visit. While in the Maldives, Modi will attend the South Asian countrys 60th Independence Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, marking 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic relations. He will also review the progress under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) and potentially advance discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi will also have meetings with President Muizzu and other leaders to advance the joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership for peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. Modis visit underscores Indias commitment to its Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, strengthening maritime links in the Indian Ocean Region. The Congress on Wednesday said it is intensifying its movement for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a press conference here, senior Congress leaders cited repeated promises by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a directive from the Supreme Court. They expressed concerns over the common mans suffering in the UT, being tossed between the Chief Ministers secretariat and the Raj Bhawan. Advertisement Congress leaders, including G A Mir, Digvijaya Singh, Naseer Hussain, and Ravinder Sharma, while emphasizing the need to restore statehood to J&K, highlighted the unprecedented situation where powers of elected representatives are with unelected people like the Lieutenant Governor. Advertisement Digvijaya Singh noted that despite promises by Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and directives from the Supreme Court, statehood has not been restored. In June 2021, PM Modi suggested delimitation, elections, and then statehood restoration for J&K. G A Mir, who is the CLP leader, pointed out, while the delimitation exercise has been completed with elections also held and an elected government in place for the last eleven months, the government of India is yet to fulfill its promise of restoring statehood. He said the Congress has since August 5, 2019 maintained that the statehood to J&K must be restored. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is working on the modernization and expansion of Akashvani and Doordarshan Kendras (DDK) across all the states by upgrading multiple Kendras under the Central Sector Scheme Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND). Providing the information in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr. L Murugan said the expansion includes major upgrades throughout the country, including Bihar, to strengthen public broadcasting. Advertisement Adding that the scheme has been approved with a total outlay of Rs. 2,539.61 crore for the period 202126, Murugan said it focuses on digitalization and modernization of broadcasting equipment, replacement of old systems, upgradation of studio and transmitter infrastructure, and introduction of new technologies and digital workflows. Advertisement The government has sanctioned various projects for modernization of broadcasting infrastructure in Bihar. It includes Rs. 64.56 Cr for modernization of Akashvani Kendras and Rs. 4.31 Cr for modernization of Doordarshan Kendras. He also added that DD Free Dish is the free-to-air (FTA) Direct-To-Home (DTH) platform of Prasar Bharati whose footprint spans the entire country, including remote, border, and otherwise inaccessible areas. Governments flagship schemes and public awareness campaigns are disseminated through programs on various national & regional channels of Doordarshan on DD Free Dish, he said, adding that it reaches approximately 49 million households nationwide as of 2024. Speaking about the proactive measures to increase the representation of South Indian language channels on DD Free Dish, the Union minister said for better regional representation, slots had been reserved for South Indian language channels in the e-auctions of DD Free Dish platform (done in 2025). The eligibility norms have been simplified to ensure greater participation from private broadcasters in the southern region. Furthermore, dedicated slots were offered for Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam channels in recent e-auctions. Three additional South Indian language private channels viz. TV9 Telugu, Aastha Kannada & Aastha Telugu, have been onboarded on DD Free Dish April this year, he said. Doordarshans own regional channels, such as DD Tamil, DD Saptagiri, DD Chandana, DD Yadagiri, and DD Malayalam have also been onboarded. The channels are being technologically upgraded and better promoted to enhance their visibility, he stated in his speech. The Centre strongly contested the narrative presented in an article by Reuters, which questioned the credibility of Indias official unemployment statistics. Dated July 22, 2025, the article is based on a perception-based survey of around 50 unnamed economists and alleges a deteriorating employment scenario in India without citing any independently verifiable or data-driven analysis. Advertisement In a detailed response shared by the Ministry of Labour & Employment, it said the article lacks transparency regarding its methodology. There is no disclosure about who the economists are, their institutional affiliations, the basis of their selection, or the questions posed to them, the ministry said. Advertisement This introduces the risk of selection bias and undermines the reliability of the conclusions. The government emphasised the robustness of Indias official labour statistics, particularly those released through the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO). It underlined that the PLFS methodology is aligned with International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards and is used globally by organisations like the World Bank, UNDP, and ILOstat for comparative labour market diagnostics. According to the latest PLFS data, the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 and above rose to 60.1 per cent in 202324 from 49.8 per cent in 201718. The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) increased to 58.2 per cent from 46.8 per cent in the same period, while the unemployment rate declined sharply to 3.2 per cent from 6.0 per cent. Further, the youth unemployment fell from 17.8 per cent to 10.2 per cent, now lower than the global average of 13.3 per cent (as per ILOs World Employment and Social Outlook 2024). The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) also indicated that 1.29 crore net new subscribers were added in 202425, up from 61.12 lakh in 201819. Since September 2017, over 7.73 crore net subscribers have joined the EPFO, including 19.14 lakh in April 2025 alone, suggesting a formalisation of the workforce and improved access to social security. As per the data, self-employment has increased from 52.2 per cent to 58.4 per cent, indicating a rise in entrepreneurial activity. Casual labour has declined from 24.9 per cent to 19.8 per cent, reflecting a shift towards more stable and autonomous forms of employment. Contrary to claims of wage stagnation, the government highlighted that the average daily wage for casual labourers (excluding public works) has increased from Rs 294 in JulySeptember 2017 to Rs 433 in AprilJune 2024. The average monthly salary of regular employees also rose from Rs 16,538 to Rs 21,103 during the same period. The Centre stressed that subjective opinion polls, such as the one cited by Reuters, cannot replace methodologically sound, representative, and internationally benchmarked surveys like the PLFS. Indias employment landscape is undergoing a positive structural shift, backed by data and sustained policy action. Constructive debate is welcome, but it must be grounded in empirical evidencenot anonymous perceptions, the statement added. Two years ago, President Mohamed Muizzu rose to power in Maldives on an openly India Out platform. Editorials back then were already writing the obituary of Indias Maldives policy. PM Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Muizzu. Advertisement This week, the prime minister will become the first foreign leader to be received in the Maldives on a state visit under President Muizzu. Even more symbolic, hes the Guest of Honour for Maldives 60th Independence Day celebrations. Advertisement Since President Muizzu took charge, India has shown that it is a friend in need. Be it through economic support, assistance for capacity building, and other such endeavours, India has always stood with Maldives. Under the Joint Vision for Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, India has provided specialized training slots to Maldivian Coast Guard and Defence Force officers at Indian defence academies. Prior to this visit of the PM, President Muizzu had visited India in October last year, marking his first state visit abroad after assuming office in November 2023. During the visit, he had said, India is a key partner in the socioeconomic and infrastructure development of the Maldives, and has stood by the Maldives during times of need. This is not an isolated story of Indias quiet diplomacy. Look at Sri Lanka. When President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assumed office, many commentators feared New Delhi-Colombo ties would nosedive too. In a powerful symbol of trust, PM Modi recently visited Sri Lanka on a state visit earlier this year, becoming the first foreign Head of Government to be received under the new leadership. In an unprecedented gesture, President Dissanayake personally accompanied PM Modi throughout the visit, from ceremonial welcome to joint public events to iconic cultural sites. PM Modi was also conferred the Mithra Vibhushana, Sri Lankas highest civilian honour for a foreign national. During the visit, President Dissanayake publicly called India Sri Lankas first responder highlighting a powerful mutual trust between the two countries. Whether its responding first in crises or standing by as the reliable neighbour when others step back, India speaks for itself. Its Indias conduct that keeps its partnerships resilient. The PM operates with a clear sense of strategy and purpose. Though many believe they grasp his approach, there are deeper, more nuanced layers to his leadership style that often remains out of public view. A defining feature of PM Modis foreign policy has been strategic restraint a measured and thorough approach that has served the country well. He is often there for any country when others fail or refuse to respond. Be it vaccines to humanitarian relief, be it capacity building or economic assistance, PM Modi is the leader who stands by nations. This consistency has ensured that, regardless of changes in political leadership abroad, Indias bilateral relations remain stable and constructive. The result is a steadily expanding global footprint for India, driven by a foreign policy that balances principle with pragmatism. ISTANBUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police rounded up 835 suspects in a sweeping public safety operation across Istanbul, the city's police department said on Wednesday. The operation, conducted on Tuesday evening, involved nearly 3,000 officers, with aerial support from a police helicopter and maritime assistance. Authorities also carried out inspections at public venues. Some 390 people wanted for various offenses were among those detained, according to the department. During the inspections, police seized 22 unlicensed pistols, five rifles, 125 rounds of ammunition and 1,520 grams of drugs, among others. The Istanbul Police Department has been regularly carrying out such operations to maintain public order and ensure the safety of residents across the city of 15 million people. An Indian student was brutally assaulted in an alleged racial attack in Adelaide, Australia. The attack left him grievously injured. The incident occurred on July 19 at around 9:22 pm (local time). Charanpreet Singh, 23, was out with his wife near Kintore Avenue in the heart of Adelaide, where a group of men thrashed him and allegedly used racial slurs. Advertisement A video of the incident that has gone viral on social media captured the assault. In the video, the unidentified men wielding metal knuckles are seen punching Singh. Advertisement As he fell on the ground, they continued to kick him in the stomach and face before fleeing the scene. A woman, probably his wife, was heard pleading in the background. | Indian student Charanpreet Singh suffers brain trauma in a brutal racist attack in #Adelaide; one arrested, four still on the run. preetSingh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw>#CharanpreetSingh #TheStatesman pic.twitter.com/iPv7DOejnV The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) July 23, 2025 Following the assault, Singh was immediately rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment. He suffered multiple injuries, including brain trauma, facial fractures, and a broken nose in the assault. According to reports, police have registered a case in this regard and arrested a 20-year-old from Enfield. He has been charged with assault causing harm. Facing imminent impeachment over the recovery of charred cash from his official residence in Delhi, Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashawant Varma has sought urgent listing of his plea seeking to quash the findings of a Supreme Court-appointed in-house inquiry panel. Appearing for Justice Varma, senior Advocate Kapil Sibal mentioned the plea before the Supreme Court, seeking urgent listing. This is in respect of his removal. Were requesting to list it as early as possible, Sibal said. Advertisement While recusing himself from the matter, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai Wednesday said that the Supreme Court will assign a separate bench to hear Justice Varmas plea. Advertisement The CJI clarified that the matter may not be listed before him as he was part of the conversation over the Justice Varma controversy. The development comes amid reports that over 100 Members of Parliament have signed an impeachment motion against Justice Varma. BJP MP Ajay Bhatt confirmed the ongoing impeachment proceedings, saying, As per the constitutional process, all MPs have given a letter with their signatures to the Speaker. We will see the results of this soon. This will show how our country does not tolerate corruption. Earlier on Tuesday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju had also addressed the issue but refrained from commenting on when the motion would be tabled. I cannot comment on any business in terms of priority because until or unless the matter is passed by the BAC (Business Advisory Committee) with approval by the Chair, it is difficult for me to make an announcement outside.The signature is underway and it has crossed 100 already, Rijiju said. What is Justice Yashwant Varma controversy? The controversy dates back to March 14, 2025, when a fire at Justice Varmas official residence in Delhi allegedly led to the discovery of large amounts of unaccounted cash by firefighters. Justice Varma and his wife were reportedly travelling in Madhya Pradesh at the time, while only his daughter and aged mother were present at home. Following the incident, a video showing bundles of burnt cash surfaced and was shared by the Delhi Police Commissioner with the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. While Justice Varma denied having any knowledge about the unaccounted charred cash, the discovery led to allegations of corruption in the judiciary, prompting the Supreme Court to constitute a three-member committee to probe the matter. Justice Varma, who was posted at the Delhi High Court at the time of the incident, was transferred back to the Allahabad High Court his parent high court. Meanwhile, the findings of the three-member committee concluded that there was strong inferential evidence of his covert or active control over the charred cash found at the storeroom of his Delhi residence. The Orissa High Court issued notice to Odisha Information Commission seeking reply on the allegation of arbitrary dismissal of a complaint case. The petitioner, Nivedita Roy, had filed an RTI application on 21 September 2021 before Public Information Officer (PIO), Chauliaganj Police Station in Cuttack city, seeking information about a complaint lodged against her husband, Bibhuti Ray. Besides, she sought a copy of CCTV footage of the police station. Advertisement The petitioner stated that as the information relates to life and liberty, the information should be provided within 48 hours. The PIO did not respond to the RTI Application. Advertisement As the information was not supplied, she filed a complaint before Odisha Information Commission under section 18 of the RTI Act with prayer for imposition of penalty on the erring PIO and compensation under section 19 (8) (b) of the RTI Act. Though about four years elapsed since the filing of the complaint, the Commission, without hearing the matter, sent an impugned order for dismissing the case on the ground that the petitioner has not approached the First Appellate Authority under section 19 (1) of the RTI Act with reference to an order by the Supreme Court. Aggrieved by this arbitrary order, the petitioner approached the High Court seeking dismissal of the order of the Commission, as it violated natural justice and was against Provision of Rule 6(4) of Odisha Information Commission (appeal procedure) Rules, 2006. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-nation tour of the UK and the Maldives on Wednesday, marking a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at bolstering strategic partnerships and regional cooperation. PM Modis visit to the UK, scheduled for July 2324, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. Advertisement During the visit, the two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties, said the Ministry of External Affairs in its press release. Advertisement The discussions will also touch upon regional and global developments of mutual concern. The visit is expected to inject new momentum into the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with both leaders aiming to review progress and chart new areas of cooperation, including India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). PM Modi is also likely to call on King Charles III during his stay. In the second leg of the tour, PM Modi will undertake a state visit to Maldives from July 2526 at the invitation of Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. This marks PM Modis third visit to the island nation and the first by any head of state or government during President Muizzus tenure. The two leaders will also take stock of the progress in the implementation of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, adopted during the State Visit of the President of Maldives to India in October 2024, said MEA. Significantly, PM Modi will be the Guest of Honour at the 60th Independence Day celebrations of Maldives on July 26. His visit underlines Indias commitment to strengthening ties with its maritime neighbours under the Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR. The leaders are expected to assess progress in key areas including infrastructure, defence cooperation, and economic connectivity. The high-profile diplomatic engagements aim to reinforce Indias global outreach while reaffirming its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region and beyond. Opposition MPs, including Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday held a protest in Parliament premises against the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Holding posters that said SIR is the murder of democracy and Justice, Justice, Justice, the MPs raised slogans against the Election Commission and the BJP-led NDA government. Advertisement Speaking to mediapersons, Congress MP Rajeev Shukla stated that the protest against the highly controversial voter list revision will continue until the Election Commission listens. Advertisement His Congress colleague and MP, Pramod Tiwari, termed the SIR exercise a BJP attempt to murder democracy, claiming it was the first time so many names were being removed from the voters list before an election. Their conspiracy has come to light. Never before have so many names been removed before an election. This is an attempt by the BJP to murder democracy, like in Haryana and Maharashtra. We will knock on every door against it. But we will not let the BJP snatch away the right to vote, said Tiwari. Meanwhile, JD-U MP Giridhari Yadav has also come out strongly against the SIR exercise, calling it a forceful imposition that lacks practical knowledge. Sharing his personal experience, Yadav said that it took him 10 days to collect all the documents, adding that the poll panel should have given at least six months. The Election Commission has no practical knowledge. It knows neither the history nor the geography of Bihar. It took 10 days for me to collect all the documents. My son stays in America. How will he do the signatures in just a month? This (SIR) has been imposed on us forcefully. At least 6 months time should have been given for this, he remarked. The JD-U MP, however, clarified it was his personal opinion. I am giving my personal opinion. It doesnt matter what the party is saying; this is the truth. If I cant say the truth, why have I become an MP? he added. Earlier on Tuesday, the Election Commission of India flagged several discrepancies in Bihar electoral rolls. According to the commission, the ongoing SIR exercise has revealed that there are 18 lakh deceased electors, and seven lakh duplicate voters in the states electoral rolls. Moreover, the ECI found 26 lakh electors have shifted to different constituencies. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee, who once mimicked then Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Wednesday alleged that the latter was forced to resign by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Cabinet Ministers. The TMC leader further claimed that Dhankhar, who tendered his resignation as Vice President on Monday night, was threatened with impeachment. Advertisement Jagdeep Dhankhar was forced to resign by the Prime Minister and other Cabinet ministers. He was threatened that if he didnt resign before 9 pm on that day, an impeachment motion would be brought against him, he told media persons in Parliament premises today. Advertisement Banerjee further remarked that Dhankhars resignation was a result of a pressure tactic by PM Modi and his minister to make Rajnath Singh the vice president. This is a pressure tactic by the PM and other Cabinet ministers. It is being heard that now Rajnath Singh will be made vice president, he added. His remarks came amid intense speculations over the sudden and unexpected resignation of Dhankhar. Eyebrows were raised by the Opposition over Dhankhars decision, with the Principal Opposition, Congress, claiming there is more to it than meets the eye in the Vice-Presidents resignation. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said today that he can sense something is fishy and the government should tell why Dhankhar resigned. The government should answer why he resigned. I can see dal mein kuch kaala hai. His health is fine. He used to defend RSS and BJP always. Who and what is behind his resignation should be known to the country, Kharge told reporters in Delhi. In his resignation letter addressed to President Droupadi Murmu, Dhankhar cited health reasons behind his decision to step down as vice president. To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution, the letter said. The Supreme Court on Wednesday came down heavily on the Telangana government over the large-scale destruction of forest cover in the Kancha Gachibowli area of Hyderabad, observing that sustainable development does not mean allowing forests to be destroyed overnight with bulldozers. Hearing a suo motu case on deforestation in the ecologically sensitive Kancha Gachibowli forest belt, Chief Justice B R Gavai, heading a bench comprising Justice K Vinod Chandran and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, remarked, I am an advocate of sustainable development, but that does not mean employ 30 bulldozers overnight and destroy all forest land. Advertisement The court had earlier warned the Telangana government of dire consequences if immediate steps were not taken to restore the forest area. It had directed the Chief Wildlife Warden of Telangana to assess the situation and act urgently to protect wildlife affected by the felling of trees over nearly 100 acres in the area. It had further instructed that no additional trees were to be cut and that the site must remain untouched except for measures taken to protect existing vegetation. Advertisement Expressing its displeasure, the bench had warned that officers responsible for permitting or executing the deforestation might be sent to a temporary prison located at the very site of the destruction if the government failed to justify its actions. Taking suo motu cognizance of the incident following media reports and public outcry, the Supreme Court had earlier imposed a complete stay on all tree felling at the site and cautioned the states chief secretary about the serious consequences of non-compliance with the courts directions. It had made it clear that there was to be no construction, development, or clearing activity until further orders were passed. The Kancha Gachibowli forest land, located in Hyderabads thriving IT corridor, has become the focus of environmental and civic protests. Students of the University of Hyderabad have also been actively opposing the states move to auction the land, demanding instead that it be handed over to the university for academic and environmental conservation purposes. Environmentalists and citizens alike have raised concerns over the rapid disappearance of green cover in the area and the displacement of wildlife, as forested land is being cleared in the name of development. The top courts strong observations now put the spotlight firmly on the states accountability and the urgent need to balance ecological preservation with urban expansion. Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has proposed the use of drone surveillance technology to detect and eliminate illegal cannabis cultivation in the state. The announcement was made during a high-level review meeting of the states Task Monitoring System (TMS) held at the Secretariats video conference hall. Advertisement The meeting brought together senior bureaucrats, including Secretaries and Directors of various departments, while District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police from all eight districts participated virtually. Advertisement Dr. Saha underlined that the use of drones could significantly enhance the states capability in monitoring hard-to-access forested areas, where illegal cannabis plantations are often concealed. This initiative aligns with the governments broader effort to combat narcotics under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and protect the youth from drug abuse. The Chief Minister also conducted a wide-ranging review of key sectors including law and order, public infrastructure projects under the Public Works Department, health services, power supply, and the deteriorating traffic situation in Agartala city. On traffic management, Dr. Saha suggested that vehicle owners in Agartala be required to maintain garage space to reduce roadside parking and ease urban congestionan idea that may feed into future urban planning policies. In the health sector, he directed the concerned officials to ensure that all oxygen generation plants and ventilator systems remain fully functional, highlighting the states preparedness for potential health emergencies and its continued investment in post-pandemic healthcare infrastructure. Dr. Saha stressed that real-time data and feedback gathered through the Task Monitoring System will form the basis of future development planning in the state. He emphasized the need for strong inter-departmental coordination to address public grievances and accelerate the pace of governance and development. The review meeting is part of a series of periodic evaluations initiated by the state government to promote transparency, accountability, and quick response mechanisms across departments. Two labourers were killed and five seriously injured on Wednesday morning when a landslide hit the tent in which they were sleeping near a Shiva temple at Badora in the Mahore sub-division of the Reasi district, police said. Continuous rainfall has resulted in flood-like situation at many places in J&K where landslides have triggered at many places. Advertisement The tragic incident took place when the three men, including a JCB machine operator at a construction site related to the Shiva Cave pilgrimage, were sleeping in a tent. At around 2 am, a sudden landslide hit the area leaving the tent buried in the ground. Advertisement The injured labourer was immediately rushed to the hospital at Mahore where he is undergoing treatment. Civilians and police launched a rescue operation operation and recovered the bodies of both labourers from debris, police said. The deceased have been identified as 26-year-old Rashpal Singh, a resident of Tuli Kalavan in Reasi, and 23-year-old Ravi Kumar, a resident of Mantalai in Udhampur. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh immediately responded to the tragedy and directed the district authorities to provide medical aid and relief to the victims. He wrote on X; Just now spoke to DC Udhampur, Ms. Saloni Rai after receiving information about a landslide in district Reasi, resulting in two casualties, one of whom belonged to Mantalai area in district Udhampur. Five others have been injured. The administration is promptly undertaking relief and rescue measures. I am in constant touch, he added. In another incident, the Indian Army, SDRF, Police, and local divers conducted a coordinated rescue operation to save a minor boy trapped amidst rising waters of a flooded river in Rajouri. Timely action and seamless coordination ensured safe evacuation, said the White Knight Corps of the Indian Army. An Army helicopter was also used to rescue the minor boy from being washed away. The vital Jammu-Srinagar highway was shut for vehicular traffic due to flash floods and mudslides at various places, including the Tunnel (T2) near Magarkote. The Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag road was also closed due to flash floods at the Sinthan nullah. The traffic police has advised people not to travel on these roads until the blockades are removed. Earlier on 21 July, a five-year-old student was killed and five others, including a teacher were injured, when a boulder crashed into a school building in the Poonch district. A Vaishnodevi pilgrim was killed and nine others injured when a landslide hit the trek route of the shrine near Katra. All three occupants of a JCB were killed when the machine last night slipped in the Dachhan area of Kishtwar. The Uttarakhand forest department will release a Special Day Cover postage envelope to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of renowned wildlife conservationist Jim Corbett on July 25, officials said on Wednesday. The Indian Postal Department will prepare and supply the envelopes on the request of the state forest department in the memory of Corbett. Advertisement Officials of the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and National Park have informed that Special Day Cover envelopes are being prepared by the Indian postal department on the request of the Park administration. These Special Day Cover envelopes will be released on the occasion of the coming birth anniversary celebration of the British era renowned naturalist Edward James Corbett better regarded as Jim Corbett. Advertisement Officials stated park administration is planning a big celebration event to commemorate 150th anniversary of Jim Corbett by releasing a Special Day Cover envelope. According to them, these envelopes are issued by the Indian Postal Department for a special event or in the memory and honour of highly decorated figures. Corbett National Park administration is getting these envelopes prepared by the postal department in memory of Edward Jim Corbett. Park administration has got two thousand Special Day Cover envelopes made, which will be released on Jim Corbetts birth anniversary on July 25 informed a senior park administration official. Sharing the information, Director of Corbett Tiger Reserve Saket Badola stated that various programs will be organised at different entry gates including Dhangarhi, Kaladhungi, Kalagarh and Kotdwar to mark a grand event in celebration of Jim Corbetts birth anniversary this year. Focus of the celebration will be mainly on making school children and people across the country aware of Jim Corbett, about the park and its past. The park is its special legacy of nomenclatures and its tiger conservation project plans resulting in a rise in big cat population said state forest minister Subodh Uniyal. He added that the state government and reserve administration want people of India to know how Corbett Tiger Reserve underwent transitions as to its nomenclature with the time through Jim Corbetts Anniversary celebration. It is notable that Corbett Tiger Reserve, also known as Corbett National Park is Indias oldest national park. It was the first tiger reserve in the country to be included in Project Tiger, an ambitious conservation program aimed at protecting tigers and their habitats. In the beginning it was established as Hailey National Park in 1936 but renamed as Corbett National Park in 1957 to honour renowned naturalist Jim Corbett. HOUSTON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The Trump administration said Tuesday that the United States will exit the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by the end of 2026, the latest move in U.S. President Donald Trump's ongoing efforts to cut off U.S. ties with multilateral organizations he views as misaligned with his "America First" agenda. WHY IS U.S. LEAVING UNESCO AGAIN? According to a statement by the U.S. State Department, the withdrawal was due to what Washington saw as the UN cultural agency's policy to "advance divisive social and cultural causes" especially over the Israel-Palestine conflicts. "UNESCO's decision to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a member state is highly problematic, contrary to U.S. policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization," the statement said. "Continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States," it said, adding the UN body "maintains an outsized focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy." White House spokesperson Anna Kelly charged in a statement that UNESCO "supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes that are totally out-of-step with the commonsense policies that Americans voted for in November." "This President will always put America First and ensure our country's membership in all international organizations aligns with our national interests," Kelly said. HOW ARE OTHER PARTIES RESPONDING? In response, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said that while Washington's announcement to withdraw from UNESCO once again was "regrettable," it had been "anticipated, and UNESCO has prepared for it." The decision, which will take effect at the end of December 2026, contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism, she said in a statement. UNESCO has been and will remain "a rare forum for consensus on concrete and action-oriented multilateralism," she stressed. Azoulay said the White House's accusations "contradict the reality of UNESCO's efforts, particularly in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism." The UNESCO chief also warned that the U.S. withdrawal might affect foremost UNESCO's partners in the United States, particularly those seeking site inscription on the World Heritage List, Creative City status and University Chairs. "The reasons put forward by the United States to withdraw from the Organization are the same as seven years ago even though the situation has changed profoundly, political tensions have receded," Azoulay said. According to the UNESCO chief, the organization has undertaken major structural reforms and diversified its funding sources in recent years, offsetting the decreasing financial contribution of the United States. "In spite of President Donald Trump's first withdrawal in 2017, UNESCO stepped up its efforts to take action wherever its mission could contribute to peace and demonstrated the pivotal nature of its mandate," she added. French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday that France will maintain "unwavering support for UNESCO." "Unwavering support for UNESCO, a universal guardian of science, the Ocean, education, culture, and world heritage," Macron wrote on X. "The withdrawal of the United States will not weaken our commitment alongside those who lead this fight." U.S. lawmaker Gregory Meeks, ranking member and former chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, slammed the White House's decision as "reckless" and "counterproductive." "Once again, this administration is undermining U.S. global leadership," Meeks said in a statement. WHEN DID U.S. WITHDRAW FROM UNESCO BEFORE? This will be the third time that Washington has left UNESCO, and the second time under Trump. In 1984, the Ronald Reagan administration pulled the United States out of the agency, citing what it called the UN body's ideological tilt toward the former Soviet Union against the West. It returned in 2003 under then-President George W. Bush. In 2011, the Barack Obama administration cut off funding for UNESCO after its member countries approved a Palestinian bid for full membership in the body. In 2017, Trump's first administration announced it was quitting UNESCO after accusing it of anti-Israeli bias, with Washington owing over 500 million U.S. dollars in dues, before former President Joe Biden reversed the decision in 2023. In February, Trump ordered a 90-day review of the U.S. membership in UNESCO, focusing on "how and if UNESCO supports United States interests" and "any anti-Semitism or anti-Israel sentiment within the organization." State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce suggested later on Tuesday that the United States could sever its relationship with more international bodies as reviews are still underway to evaluate if "continued U.S. participation in international organizations will focus on advancing American interests with clarity and conviction." Since the start of his second term in January, the Trump administration has announced its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on climate change, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations Human Rights Council under the so-called "America First" agenda. UNESCO has 194 member states and oversees more than 1,200 World Heritage sites -- 26 of which are located in the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, Yosemite National Park and Grand Canyon National Park. Sites that are added to the World Heritage list gain access to international funding to help with protection and conservation. The aging workforce is becoming an increasingly prominent feature of the global labour market, with older workers projected to represent a significant proportion of the workforce in coming years. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for organizations across various industries. Key challenges include health and wellness concerns, potential technology and skill gaps, and the need for effective succession planning. However, older employees offer valuable experience, institutional knowledge, and diversity of thought, which can enhance innovation and organizational performance. Shifting strategies, from recruitment to empowering and retaining, is imperative for organisational growth. With the average Indian now just 24 years old, and with over half the population under 25, industrialists and policymakers talk about Indias demographic dividend. But along with this rosy picture, there is another reality ~ older workers and their concerns that tend to get swept under the carpet. While companies, especially multinationals, proclaim themselves to be equal opportunity employers welcoming diversity in the workplace, it is not actually happening in India. With all the focus on attracting the young workers and keeping them, happy, older workers are, definitely, not turning out to be the first choice for employers. Advertisement For MNCs that are unable to find enough workers in their own countries due to an aging and more expensive workforce, India provides a hunting ground for younger recruits. Aging population of India is no longer a distant matter of concern ~ it is a growing reality with profound economic and social implications. By 2050, nearly 20 per cent of Indias population will be over 60, challenging traditional workforce structures and retirement norms. The rise of the aging workforce ~ older adults continuing employment beyond conventional retirement ~ demands urgent attention from policymakers, employers, and society. The concept of a fixed retirement age is gradually losing its relevance. Increasing life expectancy, albeit with a gap between overall lifespan and healthy lifespan, necessitates a re-evaluation of work and ageing. Advertisement The United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (20212030) stresses the need for individuals to maintain functional mobility and achieve personal goals. Employment plays a vital role in this, providing financial stability, purpose, and social engagement. However, India presents a dual reality when it comes to aging and work in the formal sector; structured retirement policies ensure pensions and welfare benefits but often disregard the potential contributions of older workers. Many retire not out of necessity but because of rigid policies, despite possessing valuable experience and institutional knowledge. This is a loss for both individuals and organisations. On the other hand, the informal sector, which employs a significant portion of Indias elderly, allows workforce reentry but often under precarious conditions ~ low wages, lack of job security, and minimal benefits. The disparity between these sectors highlights the urgent need for structured policies that facilitate flexible and meaningful work for older adults. Indias population is set to age rapidly in the coming decades, with the proportion of those over 60 expected to double by 2050, according to the UN Population Fund. This is not unique to India. Many countries in the West and Asia, like Japan, are facing the implications of a rapidly aging population. The old age dividend refers to the potential economic and social benefits of an aging society, particularly if elderly individuals can remain active and engaged in economic, social and familial roles. The issue of elderly health is a critical parameter in determining how long individuals can remain productive. While some extend their careers out of financial necessity, others choose to work for personal fulfilment and social connectivity. Various studies confirm that working in later years improves cognitive health and emotional well-being, reducing the risks associated with social isolation and depression. However, without supportive policies, many older workers struggle to navigate a job market that favours youth and technological adaptability over experience. To address these challenges, India must rethink its workforce policies. Employers should embrace phased retirement plans, flexible work arran gements, and re-skilling programmes tailored for older workers. Age-inclusive hiring practices must replace outdated biases that view aging as a liability rather than valuable as set. Intergenerational workplaces can benefit from the stability, commitment, and mentorship abilities of older employees, fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge transfer. Aging workforce is not a burden but an opportunity. Harnessing its potential requires systemic changes that prioritize dignity, inclusion, and economic productivity. As India stands on the brink of a demographic shift, it must ensure that longer lives translate into healthier, more meaningful, and economically secure years. If done right, an ageing workforce can be a strength, not a challenge or burden. The recent extension of the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme, to include coverage for the elderly, marks a significant step in Indias efforts to address the needs of its aging population. However, we must view this as just the beginning of a larger conversation about achieving the silver dividend the potential opportunities and challenges associated with an aging society. As global demographics shift, the aging workforce is becoming a central focus for employers and policymakers. The proportion of older individuals in the labour market is growing rapidly, primarily driven by increased life expectancy, delayed retirements, and declining birth rates. As baby boomers, the generation born bet ween 1946 and 1964, continue to retire in large numbers, the labour market is expected to experience significant shifts. Their departure will create a shortage of skilled and experienced workers, particularly in industries where they hold key positions. This exodus could lead to increased demand for younger workers to fill leadership roles and specialized jobs, resulting in a more competitive hiring landscape. Additionally, companies may face knowledge gaps, prompting a push for enhanced succession planning, training, and the use of technology to maintain productivity amidst the loss of institutional expertise. In the U.S., for example, workers aged 55 and older are projected to represent nearly a quarter of the labour force by 2030; the demographic shift poses both challenges and opportunities for organisations, particularly in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and education, where experienced professionals are crucial. As Indias demographic profile shifts, the policies and frameworks must evolve to ensure the elderly are not only cared for but also empowered to contribute. The need for comprehensive geriatric care, in cluding specialised treatments for chronic diseases, mental health support and facilities for palliative care is likely to grow. National Policy for Older Persons, 1999 promotes familybased care for elderly. The policy also seeks to engage voluntary organisations in complementing family care and extending support to vulnerable elderly individuals. However, its implementation, particularly in rural regions, has been limited if not missing, underscoring the need for broader initiatives to meet the needs of elderly people. In addition to expanding healthcare services, improving the accessibility and quality of existing infrastructure is important. Many elderly people, especially in rural areas, struggle to access healthcare due to poor transportation and inadequate health and infrastructure facilities. Enhancing the reach of services such as telemedicine, mobile clinics and community health programmes will help them. It is also important to adopt a holistic approach that includes social security, economic engagement, and support for family structures. Economic insecurity re mains a pressing concern. The lack of appropriate pension schemes and adequate savings forces many to rely on their families, which may not always be viable. Approximately 90 per cent of workers are in the informal sector, which offers no social security protection for older persons. Policymakers should consider expanding pension schemes to those in the unorganised sector also, to provide a steady retirement income. Creating old age-friendly cities is essential to ensuring the elderly can live independent and dignified lives. Urban planning must include accessible public spaces, pedestrian friendly roads and public transportation systems that cater to the needs of older adults. One way to harness the capability of older people is to enable them to remain economically active. Policies that promote flexible work arrangements, part-time jobs and community-based work through involvement of various voluntary organisations and NGOs can provide avenues for older adults to contribute their skills. This not only supplements their income but also fosters a sense of dignity and community involvement. In India, family members, particularly women, often bear the primary responsibility of caring for the elderly, impeding their workforce participation. To support caregivers, policymakers need to introduce measures such as caregiver allowances, training programmes, and respite care services. Providing financial incentives and mental health support for caregivers can help mitigate strain. Countries like Japan offer valuable lessons. With one of the most rapidly ageing populations in the world, Japan has implemented extensive measures to address its populations needs. The country has a comprehensive health insurance system that covers most medical expenses for the elderly. It also promotes productive ageing by encouraging older adults to engage in community activities and part-time work. Several Western nations have developed robust social security systems, public pensions and community-based care models. These systems include initiatives like elder friendly housing, accessible transportation and financial support for caregivers. India can draw on these experiences to inform its policies. The joint family has been the traditional system of elderly care in India. But migration and a shift to nuclear families has slowly shaken it up. Recognising the diverse needs of Indias elderly population is vital. Tailored, region-specific policies that address these varied needs will be key. The aging report highlights the lack of credible old age related data on various issues. More could be done by including questions on emerging issues related to older people in data collection exercises of the National Sample Survey, National Family Health Survey and the Census. While India has been known as a culture that supports the elderly, this should not mean the government can give up its responsibility to ensure healthy and dignified lives, especially for its senior citizens. (The writer is with Eastern Institute for Integrated Learning in Management (EIILM) Kolkata) Irans Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that his country is ready to resume indirect negotiations with the US if sanctions are lifted and Tehrans right to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes is respected. He made the remarks on Tuesday, in a meeting with members of the Iranian parliaments National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, the official news agency IRNA quoted Yaghoub Rezazadeh, a member of the commission, as saying. Advertisement The foreign minister said that in case the sanctions are lifted and Irans right to use peaceful nuclear technology is respected, indirect negotiations with the United States will be held before raising the issue of (triggering) the snapback mechanism in October, according to the lawmaker. Advertisement The snapback mechanism is a clause in a 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that would allow the other parties to re-impose all international sanctions should Iran fail to comply with the agreement, Xinhua news ageny reported. Araghchi added that planning had been done for negotiations between Iran and Russia on the formers nuclear program, and a meeting between Irans representatives and those of the three European countries of France, Britain and Germany was scheduled to take place in Istanbul on Friday for talks on the same issue, according to Rezazadeh. Iran signed the JCPOA in July 2015 with six countries Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States. Under the deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The United States unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, prompting Iran to reduce compliance with its nuclear commitments gradually. The US on Tuesday announced its withdrawal from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, or UNESCO, citing misalignment with national interests. Today, the United States informed Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the United States decision to withdraw from UNESCO. Continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States, a statement from the US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce read. According to a statement, the withdrawal was made over concerns about the organisations alleged focus on divisive agendas and its admission of the State of Palestine as a member state. The US Department of State Spokesperson described the admission as highly problematic, noting that it was against the USs policy, further accusing the organisation of helping spread anti-Israel rhetoric, amid Israels heightened military operations in Gaza. Advertisement UNESCO works to advance divisive social and cultural causes and maintains an outsized focus on the UNs Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy. UNESCOs decision to admit the State of Palestine as a Member State is highly problematic, contrary to U.S. policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organisation. Continued U.S. participation in international organisations will focus on advancing American interests with clarity and conviction, the statement alleged. Advertisement The decision will take effect on December 31, 2026, with the US remaining a full member until that date, the statement noted. This is the second time the US has withdrawn from UNESCO under the Trump administration, following its initial withdrawal in 2017 during his first term as President. The US rejoined the group after Biden took office. UNESCO was founded in 1945, but the US withdrew in 1984 due to perceived bias against US interests and financial mismanagement, according to CNN. The US rejoined UNESCO in 2003, over twenty years after its initial departure, under former US President George W. Bush, who claimed that UNESCO had made significant reforms. UNESCO is a specialised agency dedicated to strengthening shared humanity through the promotion of education, science, culture, and communication. NEW DELHI, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The British Royal Navy's F-35B fighter jet, which had been stranded for over a month at an airport in the southern Indian state of Kerala, finally took off on Tuesday to return home following necessary repairs, officials said. The stealth jet was grounded at the airport in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, on June 14 due to a hydraulic fault. According to officials, the fighter jet was diverted there following a midair emergency but subsequently developed serious engineering issues. The jet was flying from Britain to Australia when it developed a snag and was forced to take a detour to Kerala. Over the next few weeks, aviation engineers from Britain arrived in Kerala to make necessary repairs. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. E-commerce brand Myntra, backed by Flipkart, is under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) after it was slapped with a FEMA case for FDI contravention of more than 1,654 crore. The ED alleged that it acted on credible information of Myntra and related entities allegedly carrying out multi-brand retail trade under the guise of wholesale cash and carry. The central agency under the Ministry of Finance said that the complaint was filed under Section 16(3) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, which empowers the ED to kick off a formal inquiry after a complaint is filed by an authorised government official. According to the ED, the Bengaluru-headquartered Myntra, its linked companies, and its directors are in alleged violation of extant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) guidelines. ED, Bengaluru has filed a complaint u/s 16(3) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) before the Adjudicating Authority under FEMA against M/s. Myntra Designs Private Limited (Myntra) and its related companies and their Directors for contravention to the tune of 1654,35,08,981, the central agency posted on X. ED, Bengaluru has filed a complaint u/s 16(3) of Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) before the Adjudicating Authority under FEMA against M/s. Myntra Designs Private Limited (Myntra) and its related companies and their Directors for contravention to the tune of Rs. ED (@dir_ed) July 23, 2025 According to the ED, [Myntra] had declared that they were engaged in the business of wholesale cash and carry, and invited and received FDI from foreign investors equivalent to 1654,35,08,981, and that they sold the majority of their goods to Vector E-Commerce Pvt. Ltd., who sold the goods in retail to the ultimate customer. The investigating body alleged that both Vector E-Commerce and Myntra Designs belonged to the same group or group of companies and they were created to bifurcate the B2C transaction into B2B and B2C. Essentially, the ED called out Myntra for setting up two companies to make it look like Myntra Designs was a sole Business-to-Business (B2B) company, but in totality, together they acted as a Business-to-Customer (B2C) firm. The investigation also revealed that Myntra Designs Pvt. Ltd. was actually carrying out multi-brand retail trading in the guise of wholesale cash and carry, the ED alleged, stating that the company did cent per cent sales to Vector E-Commerce. Under FEMA, a wholesale firm can only do 25 per cent or lower sales to entities in the same group or group of companies. The free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom will be signed on July 24 during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to London, reports said. The Union cabinet has approved the pact, officially called the comprehensive economic and trade agreement, which was announced on May 6 after three years of negotiations. The pact proposes to remove taxes on the export of labour-intensive products such as leather, footwear and clothing, while making imports of whisky and cars from Britain cheaper. The FTA is expected to double the trade between the two countries to USD 120 billion by 2030. India will provide access to British suppliers for non-sensitive procurement tenders in the central government, with a threshold of 2 billion rupees. Once the free trade agreement is signed, it will require approval from the British Parliament before it can take effect. Earlier this week, Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia at the British High Commission, Anna Shotbolt said the India-UK FTA is projected to increase bilateral trade between the two countries by 25.5 billion annually. She highlighted that under this FTA, there are provisions for tariff reductions on 90 per cent of traded goods between the two countries. India's exports to the UK rose by 12.6 per cent to USD 14.5 billion, while imports grew by 2.3 per cent to USD 8.6 billion in 2024-25. Modi will visit the UK from July 23-24 on an invitation from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This will be Modis fourth visit to the UK as the prime minister. During the visit, the prime minister will hold wide-ranging discussions with Starmer on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations, the External Affairs Minister said in a statement. The two leaders will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance. The two sides will also review the progress of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a specific focus on trade and economy, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate, health, education and people-to-people ties, the MEA said. The Karnataka government has assured small traders that no pending GST arrears will be recovered from them, provided they register for GST. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made this announcement after a meeting with representatives from several trade associations meant to address their concerns regarding GST notices issued by the Commercial Taxes Department. #WATCH | Bengaluru | Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah says, "I called a meeting with small traders and others to discuss the issue of notices being issued to small traders, as notices were being issued to those with a turnover of more than Rs 40 lakh. Around 9000 notices were issued. pic.twitter.com/2m8idTXzkV ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 The associations stated there was no clarity in the GST notices issued to the small traders, as the GST calculation included the loan amounts and personal transactions too. The traders sought to pay only the applicable taxes, and direct access to the department officials to resolve the problems sans intermediaries. Siddaramaiah clarified that GST notices had only been issued to those whose UPI transactions exceeded Rs 40 lakh, with the intention of prompting traders to register under GST. He assured that essential food items like milk, vegetables, meat, and fruits, which are tax-exempt, would not be subject to tax collection, even if notices have been issued. The Chief Minister emphasised that old pending tax amounts mentioned in the notices would be waived provided the traders compulsorily register under GST. He also noted that discontinuing UPI transactions would affect business activity and added that only 9,000 traders had received 18,000 notices related to the last two-three years in the state. The CM asserted that the government does not intend to harass traders and would always stand in support of small-scale businesses. "GST rates are decided by the GST Council, chaired by the Union Finance Minister, and 50 per cent of GST collections are shared with the state. Karnataka currently ranks second in the country in GST collections," added the CM. The traders who had launched a "No UPI" campaign and boycotted sale of essential commodities like milk while staging "black tea" protest by selling black tea across the city, assured the government of withdrawing the protest planned for July 25. Amid the increased use of drones in modern warfare, as evinced by the recent India-Pakistan military conflict and the frequent deployment of drones for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations, India's Border Security Force (BSF), which is mainly tasked to protect the India-Pakistan international border (IB), is raising its 'drone squadron', to be deployed along the border with Pakistan. According to news agency PTI, the drone squadron of BSF, to be based in specific border outposts at the western front, will comprise an assortment of reconnaissance, surveillance and attack drones and trained personnel who can operate these. The drone squadron will be navigated by a control room based in the western command headquarters of the force in Chandigarh. ALSO READ: Two 20-year-old students make bomb-dropping drones that can't be detected on radar for Indian Army Citing sources, the news agency said the BSF drone squadron will be located in a specific number of BOPs located along the India-Pakistan border running from Jammu in the north to Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat on the western side of India. The squadron will have a wide range of small and large surveillance, reconnaissance and attack drones that will be launched during operations or any 'hot war' like situations similar to the recent military conflict. A small team of about 2-3 personnel each will be deployed in "vulnerable and specified" BOPs. Some drones and gadgetry are being procured for the maiden squadron and the personnel chosen for the task are being trained in batches. A BSF officer deployed along the border said to PTI that BSF is in touch with defence research and intelligence agencies to deploy counter-drone machines at select border posts so that "rogue or armed drones" flying in from across the frontier can be neutralised. An empowered committee for capability enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF) recommended faster induction of combat aircraft, mid-air refuellers and airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems. According to a Hindustan Times report, the committee was chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and included DRDO chief Dr. Samir V. Kamat, vice chief of air staff, and secretary (defence production) among others. It suggested various measures, including short and long-term steps, to enhance the capabilities of the IAF, which is facing a shortage of fighter squadrons. The IAF operates only around 31 combat squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. This will further go down as the Russian-origin MiG-21 aircraft will retire i September after remaining in service for over six decades. With phasing out of the last of the few MiG-21s, the number of the IAF's fighter squadrons is expected to hit an abysmal low of 29. Citing sources, the report said the government is in the final stages of granting Rs 67,000 crore contract to HAL for the supply of 97 more light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1As. ALSO READ: Farewell MiG-21: Tracing the fighter jet's glory days in war to becoming 'flying coffin' The panel reviewed every element of capability development and suggested measures to boost the IAFs operational readiness in a time-bound manner. New fighters, refuellers and AEW&C systems are among the top priorities," HT quoted a source as saying, adding that these platforms are in various stages of the procurement cycle. The panel also recommended a bigger role for the private sector, as while the public sector players have a first-mover advantage, India needs to build a larger defence base. The HT report states that the government's move to fast-track the development of India's fifth-generation stealth fighter, or the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), by officially opening it to both public and private sector participation, came in the wake of the committee recommendations. BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The number of visa-free entries into China in 2024 reached nearly 20.12 million, a 112.3 percent increase from the previous year, a senior Chinese public security official said. Qi Yanjun, vice minister of public security, announced the statistics at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office. Qi also noted that the total number of foreign entries into China in 2024 reached 32.54 million, which was 80.7 percent higher than the figure of 2023. India and China, despite their shared civilizational roots and intertwined histories, remain locked in a turbulent relationship, marked by deep mistrust, military tensions, and conflicting geopolitical aspirations. Yet, the month of July has witnessed the faint stirrings of a thaw. For the first time in five years, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar travelled to China, visiting Tianjin on July 14 and 15, for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Ministers meeting. His bilateral meetings with senior Chinese leaders, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi, President Xi Jinping, Vice President Han Zheng, and CPC International Department head Liu Jianchao, have prompted the speculation: Is this the beginning of a slow rapprochement? Jaishankars trip is notable not merely for its timing, but for the shadows under which it occurred. India is under growing pressure from the US and Western allies over continuing oil purchases from Russia despite sanctions over the Ukraine conflict. This, coupled with recent Western trade threats, including rumblings about tariffs and criticism of Indias possible participation in BRICS-led de-dollarisation, has left New Delhi feeling pressured by its traditional partners. The visit also came only two months after China reportedly lent military support to Pakistan during the brief but intense India-Pakistan conflict, triggered by the terror strike in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of several Indian tourists. The fact that Jaishankar proceeded with the trip despite these developments signals a pragmatic, if cautious, recalibration in Indian diplomacy. The delicate balancing act The ministry of external affairs summary of the visit projected a deliberately low-key tone. India welcomed the resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, commitments on hydrological data sharing for shared rivers, improved air connectivity, and a renewal of economic and cultural cooperation. Both sides affirmed the importance of SCO solidarity, multilateral trading systems, supply chain stability, and support for the Global South. Nonetheless, beneath these platitudes, realpolitik drives the engagement. India has chafed at what it perceives as a double standard by the USstern lectures on Russia and trade, even as Washington hosts Pakistans powerful army chief and flirts with strategic concessions to Islamabad. In this context, warming ties with Beijing, even tentatively, allows India to hedge, diversify its diplomatic bets, and relieve economic pressures, particularly for domestic industries constrained by ongoing restrictions on Chinese imports and investments. Reuters added fuel to this perception by reporting that Niti Aayog, Indias premier policy think tank, has proposed relaxing post-2020 restrictions on Chinese investment, potentially allowing Chinese firms to hold up to 24 per cent equity in Indian companies without prior security clearance. This would roll back rules imposed in the wake of the May 2020 border crisis, when Chinese troops staged multiple incursions into Eastern Ladakh, leading to the deadly Galwan clashes. If adopted, this change would represent a calculated economic olive branch, even as the military standoff in Ladakh remains unresolved. A history of fractured trust Indias cautionits 'fourth time shy' approachis rooted in the long, bruising arc of bilateral history. Since Chinas annexation of Tibet in 1950, the relationship has lurched between camaraderie and confrontation. The euphoric Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai era of the 1950s, symbolised by the Panchsheel Agreement of 1954 and Indias championing of Chinas international legitimacy during that period, collapsed under the weight of Beijings territorial ambitions. Chinas secret construction of a road through Aksai Chin, its rejection of the McMahon Line, and its suppression of the 1959 Tibetan uprisingwhich drove the Dalai Lama to seek asylum in Indiapoisoned the relationship. The tipping point came in 1962, when Chinese forces launched coordinated assaults across both Aksai Chin and the North-East Frontier Agency (now Arunachal Pradesh). Indias humiliating defeat, despite Chinas subsequent partial withdrawal, scarred its strategic psyche. Beijings actions, framed as teaching a lesson by Premier Zhou Enlai, shattered any illusions of fraternal solidarity. The pattern repeated in subtler ways over the following decades: Post-1963: China deepened ties with Pakistan, accepting the illegally ceded Shaksgam Valley and thereafter becoming Islamabads chief military benefactor, providing nuclear, missile, and conventional capabilities explicitly aimed at India. 1967 and 1987: Border skirmishes reignited tensions, underscoring the volatility of the Line of Actual Control (LAC). 1970s80s: Beijing armed and trained insurgent groups in Indias northeast, fueling instability. 2013, 2014, 2017: PLA incursions in Depsang, Chumar, and Doklam tested Indias resolve, with each episode raising the spectre of a repeat of 1962. 2020: The Galwan Valley clash, amid a broader Chinese push along multiple points of the LAC, froze relations once more. In this context, Indias reluctance to fully embrace any 'normalisation' of ties is understandable. Past attempts at rapprochement, from Atal Bihari Vajpayees groundbreaking 1978 visit to the confidence-building agreements of the 1990s and 2000s, have failed to prevent fresh crises. Each engagement has been followed, sometimes within years, by new provocations. The strategic and economic equation Despite these fissures, trade between India and China has ballooned, peaking at over $115 billion annually, albeit with a yawning $100 billion deficit in Beijings favour. China remains a crucial supplier of electronics, solar components, and intermediate goods for Indian industry. This dependence, combined with the potential economic windfall of renewed investment flows, creates strong incentives for Indias business lobbies to advocate a thaw. Strategically, however, the calculus remains fraught. China continues to: Modernise its military at a staggering pace, with defence spending rising from $30 billion in 2000 to $314 billion in 2020about 1.7 per cent of GDP and the world's second largest, after the US (SIPRI). Fortify its Western Theatre Command, which oversees operations along the LAC. Expand missile bases and dual-use infrastructure across the Tibetan plateau, including airfields, railways, and highways, aimed at rapid mobilisation. Deepen its all-weather alliance with Pakistan, epitomised by the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which India views as a direct encroachment on its sovereignty, given the corridors route through Gilgit-Baltistan. Beijing has also blocked Indias entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group, shielded Pakistan-based terrorists like Masood Azhar at the UN, and pursued a policy of salami slicing through incremental territorial nibbling along the LAC. Indias countermeasures Indias approach to China is thus deliberately multi-pronged, blending deterrence with engagement: Military: India has enhanced forward deployments along the LAC, accelerated construction of border roads, tunnels, and airstrips, and modernised surveillance and rapid-reaction capabilities. It has deepened defence cooperation with the US (through foundational agreements enabling real-time intelligence sharing, interoperability and logistics support) and the Quad, conducting joint naval and cyber exercises to secure the Indo-Pacific. Diplomatic: New Delhi has hedged by cultivating ties with Western powers while also engaging the Global South, offering economic and development assistance to South Asian and Indian Ocean neighbours to counterbalance Chinas Belt and Road footprint. Economic: The government is promoting self-reliance in critical sectors (electronics, solar, defence) to reduce Chinese imports, while diversifying trade relationships with ASEAN, the EU, and the US. It has also marketed India as a reliable, democratic alternative for global supply chains seeking to pivot away from China. The road ahead Jaishankars July visit does not herald a reset so much as a managed detente. The Galwan wounds remain unhealed; troops still face off at friction points in Eastern Ladakh; and Chinas strategic designs, from its partnership with Pakistan to its Indo-Pacific ambitions, remain unchanged. Yet, pragmatism dictates dialogue. India seeks breathing spaceto shield its economy, diversify its diplomacy, and avoid simultaneous confrontations with both China and the West. But if history is any guide, New Delhis caution is warranted. From 1957s road through Aksai Chin, to 1962s lesson, to 2020s Galwan clash, India has been burned thrice. As it tiptoes toward engagement in 2025, it does so with eyes wide open, borders fortified, partnerships strengthened, and a firm resolve: rapprochement, yes, but not at the cost of security or sovereignty. In this high-stakes game, Indias watchword remains 'caution.' Thrice bitten in the past, a fourth time must be prevented at all costs. The writer was Vice Chief of the Indian Army. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK. Pawan Kalyan has solidified himself in Andhra Pradesh as a noted thespian and a staunch politician, but it can be quite a challenge to balance both. While both professions demand a public life under intense scrutiny, the two could not be more different from each other. So, will the actor-turned-politician prioritise one over the other? ALSO READ | Pawan Kalyan cracks down on high ticket prices, food and beverage costs in cinemas across Andhra Pradesh With his film Hari Hara Veera Mallu debuting in theatres this week, Kalyan recently spoke about the effect politics had on his filming schedule, acknowledging the inconvenience it poses to the producers. When I signed these three films, I had planned to complete them before the elections. However, I lost crucial time before the elections due to some political incidents, Kalyan said to Hindustan Times. I asked the producers of all three films to forgive me because I needed a few more days to complete the films. Even after I came into power, I took time to shoot for films and only did it for two hours a day. After Hari Hara Veera Mallu, the deputy chief minister has two more film releases on the horizonSujeeths OG and Harish Shankars Ustaad Bhagat Singh. While it may be a chore to handle he two tasks, Kalyan does have a game plan. I have completed shooting for OG and have around five days left to complete Ustaad Bhagat Singh. I will definitely not act anymore if I have political clashes because my priority is the administration and the Janasena Party. However, I need cinema for my financial sustenance. So, I will look to producing films in the future. Even if I do act, it will only be for two hours per day. But right now, I havent signed any more films. About Hari Hara Veera Mallu To end discrimination, Veera Mallu leads a revolt against the Mughal Empire while also attempting to snatch the Koh-i-Noor diamond from the Peacock Throne. Helmed by Krish Jagarlamudi and A. M. Jyothi Krishna, the film stars Pawan Kalyan, Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nargis Fakhri and Nora Fatehi. After numerous delays, Hari Hara Veera Mallu will be released in theatres on July 24. Today is a special Wednesday for 'Wednesday' fans worldwide, as Netflix has renewed season three of one of India's most-watched English shows, ahead of the release of a second season. The Jenna Ortega-starrer is also set to be made into a spin-off series, the details of which remain under wraps, a THR report said. The much-awaited second season of the supernatural comedy series created by Tim Burtonfamed for the 'Beetlejuice' films and Johnny Depp-starrer 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'will premiere on August 6. This follows the success of the first season, which became the most-watched original series ever on Netflix, with more than 250 million views, and received a whopping 12 Emmy nominations. According to Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria, the show became so successful that people watched it again and again and brought their parents into it, and it became a multigenerational show. There were soldiers in Ukraine doing the Wednesday dance, she added. ALSO READ | 'Stranger Things 5' teaser OUT: Vecna threat looms in intense final chapter, set to release in 3 parts 'Wednesday' stars Ortega as the reimagined titular teenager from the Addams Family, who is expelled from her school and sent to the Nevermore Academy for outsiders. Ortega, a long-time horror actress in films like 'Scream VI', 'X' and 'Insidious: Chapter 2', shot to fame with this series, going on to star in Burton's 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice', released this year. The show's ensemble cast also features Gwendoline Christie, Emma Myers and Riki Lindhome. Myers went on to bag a leading role in the BBC-Netflix show 'A Good Girls Guide to Murder'. The trailer for the second season, released earlier this month, showed Wednesday return to Nevermore to navigate another year of mystery, mayhem and secrets. Secrets are the bedrock of the Addams family. The sooner I get answers, the sooner I can save Enidor die trying, she says, in the trailer. The second season will be released in two parts: the first four episodes will be released on August 6 this year, while the last four episodes come out on September 3. 26-year-old Seba Salam has been bedridden since 2017 due to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 2, a genetic and progressive disorder. Yet, the condition has not stopped her from becoming an artist, published author, and blogger. More importantly, Seba has emerged as one of the strongest voices advocating for access to life-saving drugs, especially for rare and genetic diseases, across various platformsincluding legal forums. She has been outspoken about the role of patent monopolies in keeping these essential medicines unaffordable, often declaring that life-saving drugs should not be treated as profit-generating commodities. Recently, while interacting with The Week, Salam noted the example of Onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma), a one-time intravenous gene therapy, that can save a lot of children affected with SMA, costed Rs 16 crore in India. In April 2023, representatives from various civil society groups, community organisations, health bodies, and patient advocacy groups wrote an important letter to the Department of Health and Family Welfare and the Department of Biotechnology. The letter highlighted the exorbitant cost of Zolgensma and seven other life-saving drugs. It urged the government to reform its policies on biosimilarsbiological medicines that closely resemble an approved product in quality, safety, and efficacy, but are produced by a different company. The signatories emphasised that such policy changes could dramatically improve the lives of many, including many individuals like Seba. The letter urged the government to take immediate steps to revise the pre-existing Biosimilar Guideline, last revised in 2016, and facilitate access to quality biosimilars at an affordable price. It also noted that the current Biosimilar Guidelines require mandatory animal studies and comparative safety and efficacy trials for marketing approval. These requirements were identified as major barriers to biosimilar approval, as they are both resource-intensive and time-consuming. As a result, fewer manufacturers enter the market, limiting competition and keeping the prices of originator medicines high. Incidentally, this May, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) released new Draft Guidelines on biosimilarsa move seen as a significant step toward making affordable, life-saving treatments accessible to millions of Indians suffering from serious illnesses. However, civil society groups are urging for further relaxation of these guidelines in line with global standards, to remove unnecessary barriers and prioritize affordability without compromising safety and efficacy. Notably, the draft includes provisions to reduce animal testing and incorporates the 3Rs principleReplacement, Reduction, and Refinementwhich promotes ethical animal research by encouraging alternatives and minimizing animal use. Yet, K.M. Gopakumar, co-convenor of the Working Group on Access to Medicines and Treatment, points out that the draft still permits animal studies in certain cases and leaves much to the discretion of licensing authorities. He argues that advanced technologies like in-vitro testing, organ-on-chip models, and computer simulations can reliably demonstrate a biosimilars safety and similarity to the original drug. Gopakumar, who recently submitted a petition to the CDSCO urging a revision of the draft, notes that leading regulatory bodies such as the UK MHRA, EMA, Health Canada, and USFDA have largely moved away from animal testing. Eliminating such 'unnecessary' tests in India, he contends, could lower production costs and accelerate biosimilar development. The new draft guidelines include a provision that makes clinical trials optional when a biosimilar is proven to be similar through laboratory tests. However, civil society organizations point out that the guidelines do not explicitly mention the specific situations in which a biosimilar developer would be required to conduct comparative clinical trialssomething clearly outlined in the guidelines issued by agencies like the UK MHRA. There is optimism that the new biosimilar guidelines present a historic opportunity to advance Indias healthcare system. Activists like Gopakumar note that by eliminating animal studies, clarifying clinical trial waivers, and prioritizing affordability, India can make biosimilars more accessible, reduce ethical concerns, and strengthen its position as a global leader in affordable medicine. Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Wednesday arrested four operatives allegedly linked to a proscribed al-Qaeda outfit known as al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), officials said, adding that one of the arrested operatives even possessed documents pertaining to India's Operation Sindoor. The four were said to be involved in running a fake currency racket, as well as in spreading the terror group's ideology using social media and suspicious applications to spread the terror group's ideology, an NDTV report said, citing unnamed sources. #WATCH | Gujarat ATS arrested four people with links to AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent). They have been identified as Fardeen Shaikh r/o Ahmedabad, Mohd Faiq r/o Delhi, Zeeshan Ali r/o Noida and Saifullah Qureshi r/o Modasa. Sections of UAPA and BNS invoked in FIR. Two pic.twitter.com/eqvzSjl1J5 ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 The sources added that the terrorists had used auto-delete applications as well, in order to wipe out all traces of their communications. All four had been under close watch for their suspected association with AQIS, a banned terrorist outfit, said Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi. He confirmed that the operation was based on specific intelligence received by Gujarat ATS DSP Harsh Upadhyay (on June 10) about 5 suspicious Instagram accounts, and declared that it was carried out in a coordinated manner across multiple locations. "They were sharing their content on a religious basis, against democracy, against India," he added. #WATCH | Gujarat ATS arrested four terrorists with links to AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent). The four have been identified as Mohd Faiq r/o Delhi, Mohd Fardeen r/o Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Sefullah Kureshi r/o Modasa (Gujarat) and Zeeshan Ali r/o Noida (UP). pic.twitter.com/IyFutWglUi ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 The AQIS, with which the four operatives have long been linked, had reportedly made contact with them on social media. The ATS also seized a sword and al-Qaeda material from Fardeen, and found that Faiq had been in contact with a few Pakistani Instagram accounts which provided him material for jihadi activities. Apart from Operation Sindoor documents retrieved from Fardeen, the ATS had also found posts they made during Operation Sindoor, that were "anti-Indian Govt, pro-Pakistani and instigating material on religious basis" "Saifullah and Fardeen were produced before the Court today and they have sent to 14-day remand. The remaining two accused will be produced before Court tomorrow," Joshi explained. India has clarified to the world that Operation Sindoora series of "measured" precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure on Pakistanhad been a response to the devastating Pahalgam attack of April 22, for which it blamed Islamabad. Trouble mounts for Jamaluddin alias Chhangur Baba, who was arrested earlier this month for allegedly running a religious conversion racket, with more people turning up to file complaints against him. Jyotirgmay Rai (35), a resident of Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh, claimed that the self-styled godman threatened to murder his two daughters in an attempt to force him to convert to Islam. Rai has filed a complaint to Additional Director General of Police, Piyush Mordia. The man claimed that he married a woman named Ishita through an Arya Samaj ceremony, but later discovered that she was from a Muslim family and her real name was Afreen. The couple have two daughters. The complainant alleged that after the birth of their second daughter in 2024, Afreen's family began pressuring him to convert to Islam. "Rai claims that Afreen left with their daughters for Lucknow in November 2024. When he followed them, he was allegedly threatened and subjected to brainwashing by Chhangur Baba. He has also claimed that he was asked to convert to Islam while his daughters were held at knifepoint," Superintendent of Police Abhimanyu Mangalik told reporters. Rai returned to Bhadohi without converting and filed a petition before the high court seeking custody of his children. Meanwhile, police have also launched an investigation into his allegations. According to officials, Chhangur Baba, a resident of Balrampur, is accused of targeting people from several communities and even maintaining a rate list for conversions, officials said. Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh: A local woman has accused Chhangur Baba and Badar Siddiqui of luring her sister and other minor girls into religious conversion and subsequently making them disappear She says, "This started in 2019. My sister went missing in October 2019 and after pic.twitter.com/3GYwXgrFkF IANS (@ians_india) July 16, 2025 The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad claimed that Baba financed over 1,000 Muslim men to lure Hindu girls under the guise of 'love jihad' and convert them. He is also accused of receiving over 500 crore through around 40 bank accounts from foreign sources. Police have also arrested his son Mehboob, and associates Naveen Rohra and Neetu alias Nasreen. The Enforcement Directorate has filed a money laundering case against Chhangur Baba. The agency carried out search operations at 15 locations related to Baba and his associates in Balrampur, Lucknow, and Mumbai under the provisions of the PMLA on July 18. ED, Lucknow has carried out search operations at 15 locations related to Chhangur Baba,his close associate Naveen Rohra and others in Balrampur, Lucknow, and Mumbaiunder the provisions of PMLA, 2002 in connection with money laundering case related to Chhangur Baba and others for ED (@dir_ed) July 18, 2025 During the search operations, the ED claimed, various incriminating documents indicating receipt of funds from foreign countries and transferring the same to different people for acquisition of immovable properties were recovered and seized. An IndiGo flight, heading to Diu, on Wednesday aborted its takeoff after one of the engines caught fire at Ahmedabad airport. All 60 passengers and crew were evacuated immediately. The incident happened when the IndiGo flight 6E 7966, which is an ATR76, began its takeoff roll. The flight as supposed to take off around 11.15 am from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. As the plane started moving down the runway, the pilot sent a Mayday call to the air traffic control. Investigators are now looking into a possible technical fault in the recent Air India crash in Ahmedabad. The crash involved Flight AI171, a Boeing 787, which went down shortly after takeoff on July 15. Early reports suggest there may have been a malfunction in the aircrafts pic.twitter.com/7ii6ApKiG5 THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) July 17, 2025 The pilots informed the authorities soon after discovering the technical issue, said a spokesperson of the airline. "Following the standard operating procedure, the pilots informed the authorities and returned the aircraft to the bay. The aircraft will undergo necessary checks and maintenance before resuming operations," the IndiGo spokesperson said. We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers and are making all efforts to minimize it by offering them refreshments, accommodation in the next available flight, or full refund against cancellation, as per their preference," they added. This comes a day after an Air India flight from Hong Kong caught fire shortly after landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Tuesday. The passengers and the crew were evacuated safely from the flight AI 315. The fire originated in the flight's Auxiliary Power Unit while the passengers were disembarking. On Tuesday, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport received a hoax bomb threat, following which security agencies thoroughly swept the premises but they did not find anything suspicious. The bomb threat was sent by an unidentified person to the Ahmedabad through an email. On June 12, Air India Flight AI 171 bound to London's Gatwick airport crashed 32 seconds after it took off from the Ahmedabad airport. It crashed into a hostel building at BJ Medical College, about 1.5 km from the airport, killing all but one of the 241 people aboard. Another 19 people on ground were also killed during the crash. NIA has unearthed fresh revelations about the role of Tahawwur Rana in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, according to a supplementary chargesheet filed by NIA on Wednesday. The Canadian national of Pakistani origin was extradited from the United States in April and is in NIA custody in Delhi's Tihar Jail. The chargesheet revealed that Rana supported Lashkar-e-Taiba operative David Coleman Headley alias Daood Gilani, a Pakistani American, in carrying out reconnaissance operations, adding that he set up a corporate office in Mumbai to facilitate the terrorist activities. The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana made a damning claim against Pakistan Army, saying he was the trusted agent of the force and that he was in Mumbai during the 2008 terror attack. Rana has also claimed that Pakistani Army sent him to Saudi Arabia during the pic.twitter.com/QBpb70mhNX THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) July 7, 2025 The Immigration Law Centre in Mumbai run by Rana did not have any actual commercial activity but posed as a legitimate office. It was operational for more than two years and its sole purpose was to facilitate Headley's activities. With this support, Headley carried out surveillance at several high-profile targets in Mumbai. The charges previously slapped on Rana include conspiracy, terrorism and murder. The 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks claimed the lives of 166 people. Rana, who was a doctor in the Pakistan Army Medical Corps, was commissioned as a Captain after completing his MBBS from the Army Medical College in Rawalpindi. He previously claimed that he was a trusted agent of the Pakistani Army, which sent him to Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War. However, Pakistan earlier said it has nothing to with Rana, pointing out that he is a Canadian citizen and has not renewed his Pakistani documents over the past 20 years. All the subsects of Veerashaiva-Lingayat community will enumerate their caste as Veerashaiva-Lingayat in the upcoming caste census, to assert their unity, said a resolution passed by the two-day convention of Veerashaiva-Lingayat pontiffs led by the seers of the Pancha Peetha of Balehonnuru, Kedara, Ujjain, Rambhapuri and Srisailam in Davangere. The summit also sought to send a delegation of Lingayat MPs to meet the prime minister seeking inclusion of a religion" column in the upcoming caste census forms. The heads of the politically dominant community, which holds sway in more than 100 out of the 224 assembly constituencies in the state, met for the first time in decades after debunking the caste survey (Kantharaj Commission report) carried out by the Karnataka government citing the survey had deflated their numbers. After the Congress high command also junked the report and called for a fresh survey citing it was at least a decade old, the Siddaramaiah government has ordered a fresh survey. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that a caste census would be conducted along with the National Census 2026. The Lingayat community, which is spread across southern states, is hoping to unite the hundreds of subsects. The religious leaders have now taken the onus of educating the community members about the importance of such a survey for better reservation benefits and political representation. The subsects should be included in the central OBC list, and the reservation benefits currently extended to the subsects by both the state and the Centre should continue. The All India Veerashaiava Mahasabha and other mutts should display the portrait of Jagadguru Renukaacharya in their organisations. The pontiffs of both Veerashaiva and Lingayat (Virakta) mutts should conduct annual conventions to propagate the ideals, tradition and values of the cult. Better unity and coordination among the mutts and seers to uplift the marginalised sections of the community. A plan to reach out to the Veershaiva community spread across northern India in states like Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir and their integration to help them secure government benefits, stated the list of resolutions. The pontiffs asserted that the Lingayat community has many subsects based on the different occupations and this should not lead to the community being fragmented. The community recalled the failed attempt to break the unity through the Lingayat Movement demanding a minority religion tag by the Congress government in 2018. Former MP GM Siddeshwar said the veterans, Shamanur Shivashakrappa and BS Yediyurappa, were like the two eyes of the community and deserved applause for averting the bid to divide the community. Union Minister V. Somanna called for unity among the different peethas and pontiffs to help unite the subsects. Reiterating the same sentiment, former chief minister and Haveri MP Basavaraj Bommai said the summit had proven the strength of the community. There should be no discrimination or difference between the guru and Virakta mutts. This will help the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community emerge as leaders to lead humanity. We will be unstoppable if we stay united, he said. The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) has condemned the Election Commission of India (ECI)s recent directive regarding voter re-registration in Bihar state, expressing grave concerns about its potential impact on voting rights and citizenship status for millions of Indians. This comes against the backdrop of the ECIs Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Under this directive, approximately 80 million registered voters must complete a re-registration process by July 26, 2025, or face removal from voter rolls and potential classification as suspected foreign nationals. Critics argue this policy creates significant barriers to electoral participation, particularly affecting India's economically disadvantaged populations who may lack access to the required documentation. The IAMC, which is a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group, has objected that this sudden directive is a concerning development that threatens the fundamental democratic right to vote for millions in one of Indias most populous states. IAMC president Mohammad Jawad said that the compressed timeline and documentation requirements create unnecessary barriers that could result in mass disenfranchisement, particularly affecting the state's most vulnerable populations. The organisation characterises the policy as part of a broader pattern of what it views as discriminatory practices targeting religious minorities, particularly Muslims, under the guise of administrative reform. IAMC has called upon multiple entities to address the situation. It wants the Indian government and the Supreme Court of India to immediately review and halt the current re-registration requirements. It wants the government of the United States to publicly address concerns about democratic processes and minority rights in India. Meanwhile, it has also called upon the international community to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of voting rights and religious freedom The organisation emphasises the need for transparent, equitable electoral processes that protect the democratic participation of all citizens, regardless of economic status or religious affiliation. People attend a cultural event to commemorate the 620th anniversary of Chinese admiral Zheng He's first westward journey, at the Sam Poo Kong Temple in Semarang, Central Java Province, Indonesia, on July 27, 2025. (Photo by Kalila/Xinhua) by Hayati Nupus JAKARTA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Behind a gracefully displayed blue-and-white porcelain bowl in Jakarta's Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics lies a trace of Asia's diplomatic past: the legendary voyages of Chinese admiral Zheng He. An exhibition, titled "Miles Apart, Close at Heart," revives the epic journeys of the Ming Dynasty sailor who traveled widely across Asia, including regions that are now part of modern-day Indonesia. "This exhibition is a true testament to the spirit of collaboration and a reflection of the historical legacy and shared values that continue to connect our two nations today," said Rano Karno, Jakarta's deputy governor, at the opening ceremony. Featuring more than 60 artifacts, the exhibition scheduled for July 11-Aug. 11 was jointly organized by the China Maritime Museum, the Shanghai Art Collection Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics in Jakarta. Some 620 years ago, in the 15th century, Zheng He commanded what was then the world's largest fleet on seven diplomatic expeditions. He sailed across towering waves to Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia, and the eastern coast of Africa, fostering exchanges between civilizations and leaving a lasting legacy of peace and cooperation. A highlight of the exhibition is a striking illustration of the massive "Baochuan" treasure ship. These ships carried diplomatic envoys, precious goods from China, and gifts exchanged with other kingdoms. Visitors can also view detailed maritime navigation maps, fleet formation diagrams, and shipbuilding tools, all of which demonstrate the advanced maritime technology of China's Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Other exhibition highlights include documents chronicling Zheng He's westward journeys, offering insights into countries he visited, and ceramics thought to be part of diplomatic exchanges. In Indonesia, historical records confirm Zheng's visits to key ports such as Palembang, Gresik, and Semarang. Sites like the Sam Poo Kong Temple in Semarang and Cheng Ho Mosques in cities like Palembang and Surabaya stand as enduring markers of his presence. The exhibition has seen a steady stream of local and international visitors move through the galleries. Many paused to examine tri-lingual infographics in Indonesian, English, and Chinese, and closely studied the artifacts on display. "It feels like stepping into a time machine. I never realized how deeply connected China and Indonesia have been for centuries," said Maria, a visitor from Jakarta. Meanwhile, Istiani from Tangerang could not stop marveling at the sophistication of the Baochuan ship. "Seeing the treasure ship illustration and the ceramics makes me imagine how massive and advanced their fleet was 600 years ago." The exhibition not only commemorates 620 years since Zheng He's first voyage but also marks several milestones in Indonesia-China relations: 75 years of diplomatic ties, and the 70th anniversary of the Asia-Africa Conference. "This partnership is not only about presenting a remarkable collection but also about fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding and strengthening the long-term ties between Indonesia and China," said Mochamad Miftahulloh Tamary, head of Jakarta's Provincial Culture Agency. People attend a cultural event to commemorate the 620th anniversary of Chinese admiral Zheng He's first westward journey, at the Sam Poo Kong Temple in Semarang, Central Java Province, Indonesia, on July 27, 2025. (Photo by Kalila/Xinhua) People perform the lion dance during a cultural event to commemorate the 620th anniversary of Chinese admiral Zheng He's first westward journey at the Sam Poo Kong Temple in Semarang, Central Java Province, Indonesia, on July 27, 2025. (Photo by Kalila/Xinhua) The resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has once again drawn attention to the fact that Jammu and Kashmir currently has no members in the Rajya Sabha. Although the regions five Lok Sabha MPs will take part in the upcoming Vice-Presidential election, it will not have full representation. This is because the electoral college for the Vice Presidents post includes members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Dhankhar, 74, stepped down on Monday. The Election Commission is expected to issue a formal notification for the Vice Presidential election in the coming days. Jammu and Kashmir has four seats in the Rajya Sabha, but all have remained vacant since February 2021. Assembly elections were held nine months ago, but the Election Commission hasnt initiated the process to fill these seats. In the new 90-member assembly, the ruling coalition of the National Conference and Congress, supported by some independent MLAs, has over 50 members. This gives it a clear advantage over the BJP, which has 28 members after the death of one MLA. Based on the numbers, the coalition is favourably placed to win three out of the four Rajya Sabha seats. However, the BJP is unhappy about possibly getting only one seat. The party could have won two seats with the support of five nominated members, who have voting rights in the assembly. But this plan is on hold, as Congress has taken the matter to court. It has challenged the Lieutenant Governors authority to nominate the five members. The Vice President of India also serves as the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. This makes Jammu and Kashmirs absence in the Upper House even more significant in the context of the election. With the result expected to reflect the current power struggle between the ruling alliance and the opposition, Jammu and Kashmirs limited role once again highlights the incomplete nature of its political participation at the national level. On Monday evening, just before announcing his surprise resignation, former vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar made an unscheduled visit to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The staff at the Presidents Secretariat were completely caught off-guard as they were not prepared to deal with such a situation. The visit caused a flutter, and the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) had to rush to the military secretary to inform him about Dhankhars presence, reported Times of India. Dhankhar met President Droupadi Murmu around 9 pm and handed over his resignation to her. Half an hour later, he made his resignation letter public on X. "To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the Constitution," Dhankhar said in his letter. According to reports, Dhankhars unannounced visit to the Rashtrapati Bhavan was another indication of a sudden trigger for him to step down. Dhankhar, 74, assumed office in August 2022 and his term would have ended in August 2027. The vice presidents shock resignation has created a political uproar with the opposition Congress alleging that it was "forced" and the reasons are "far deeper" than the health issues. Interestingly, barring Prime Minister Modi, who put out a brief post, most of the leading government figures refrained from offering any comment on Dhankhars exit. "PM's non-post on X regarding Shri Jagdeep Dhankar's forced resignation has only added to the mystery of his abrupt exit. Surely the PM could have been a bit more gracious -- he is, after all, the supreme master of hypocrisy, said Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh. The unexpected resignation of Jagdeep Dhankar on Monday has led to speculations about who will succeed him as Vice President. While there have been 14 veeps since 1950, none of them were women. India has had two women Presidents, including Prathibha Patil and the incumbent Droupadi Murmu. Indira Gandhi remains the only women prime minister of India. Will India get its first woman Vice President? When BJP nominated Droupadi Murmu as President, she became the first person from a tribal community to hold the office. If BJP picks a woman as Vice President, it would become a historic first. Also it would be the first time that women would hold both the presidential and VP posts. After the surprise resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as the vice president, the ruling NDA has launched a hunt for a suitable candidate. Though there are many names doing the rounds, Union Minister Ram Nath Thakur and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh are being pic.twitter.com/pAm2lVnUqX THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) July 23, 2025 Two-time chief minister Vasundhara Raje, who is still BJP's best known face in Rajasthan despite leaving the CM post, is among the names of contenders for the VP's post. Another BJP leader rumoured to be considered for the VP post include Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has faith in Sitharaman's ability to boost the Indian economy, navigating it through a global crisis in 2020-21 and transforming it into the fourth largest economy. It would be no surprise if BJP picks Sitharaman for the VP post. Another woman speculated to be nominated by the BJP is Sudha Murthy, 73, who took oath as a Rajya Sabha member in 2024. When she was nominated to the post, PM Modi said her presence in Rajya Sabha was a "powerful testament to Nari Shakti". She is also a recipient of Padma Bhushan award. The top contenders for the VP post are mostly men, including Rajya Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh Singh. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who ruled out contesting in the upcoming assembly elections is also a frontrunner. With JP Nadda set to end his term as BJP National President soon, the party could name him to the VP's office. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who recently had a fallout with his party leadership, could be floated by BJP to divide the opposition votes. Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachood, former Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha and Delhi LG Vinai Kumar Saxena are other names being discussed for the post. The multiple gas explosions and fires that have been creating news in Iran over the last few weeks could be the work of Israel, according to an Iranian official. This comes as many, including two IRGC officials, died in these unexplained incidents in Iran just after the 12-day war with Israel. Though Iran shrugged off the events as a coincidence, three Iranian officials, including a member of the countrys Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), told the New York Times that they believed that many of them were acts of sabotage. However, the officials are not allowed to publicly acknowledge the fact so as not to trigger panic among the population that is still traumatised by the countrys war with Israel and the United States. Iran also does not want to corner itself into having to retaliate against Israel. The fire incidents included a blaze in northeast Iran near Mashhad International Airport, which authorities said was controlled burning of weeds. The authorities attributed the series of gas explosions to worn-out infrastructure. Also read: What's behind the mysterious deaths in Iran? Senior IRGC commander dies of 'chemical injuries' Israels alleged history of covert operations in Iran, including explosions and assassinations, and its vow to continue operating in Iran prompts Tehran to point its fingers at Israel. Israels intelligence agency, the Mossad, had stated that its work in Iran would continue even after the cease-fire. Though the Iranian officials do not have evidence to back up their claims, the authorities are yet to provide a convincing explanation as to why gas explosions happened at a rate of one to two per day across the country. A European official who deals with Iran also told the NYT that he assessed the attacks as sabotage and suspected Israel to be behind it. He believes Israel could be using such attacks as a psychological warfare and to take out targets. Though Israel has not reacted or responded to the mysterious explosions, a Persian-language X account that styles itself as Israels Mossad addressed the explosions in a post. "Explosion after explosion. Someone needs to check what's going on there. Too many random incidents are happening," he said. Analysts believe Iran is trying to downplay the attacks. The Iranian governments long record of cover-ups and lack of transparency, along with its vague responses, has only deepened public fear and suspicion, Omid Memarian, an Iran expert at DAWN, a Washington-based foreign policy research institute, told the NYT. Iranians are experiencing an unprecedented crisis after a severe heatwave and water and electricity shortages threw life off gear. The temperature currently hovers between 40C in Tehran and 50C in the south, causing water and power cuts. With the crisis escalating, Iranian authorities are implementing widespread closures of government offices across the country. Almost 23 Iranian provinces announced the suspension of schools and work due to "heat and energy consumption management. Iranian government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani told the media, "If the water crisis continues, there is a possibility that the closures will continue," adding that a report will be prepared on the impact of these closures on water consumption management. The official blamed the crisis on unprecedented drought, the second-driest year in five decades. The rainfall is down 43% from last year. Government data show 24 of 31 provinces are under water stress, including major cities like Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, and Isfahan, according to Iran International. The crisis has triggered widespread protests across the country. Videos showed a group of people gathered in front of the governor's office building in the city of Sabzevar, chanting slogans. This is a big prison called Iran that has neither water nor electricity, a woman from Fardis, a suburb of Karaj city, told Iran International. Water outage again People have reached the breaking point. Do something before its too late, you irresponsible officials! another woman pleaded. In areas where there is a water supply, the pressure is too low, leaving only the lower floors to receive water. Though some residents installed private pumps to reach upper floors, these depend on electricity, which is also being cut. The lower floors have low-pressure water, but the upper floors, even with a pump, have none, wrote journalist Maryam Shokrani on X. Though authorities blame it on drought, experts say the crisis is a result of poor planning in water resource management and decades of unsustainable water use in agriculture and industry. The Yemeni militant group Houthis swung back to action after a lull early this month, sinking two bulk carriers in the Red Sea, proving that the efforts of the West to rein in the Iranian proxy group to protect Red Sea shipping lanes have failed. The European Union's counter-Houthi mission Operation Aspides struggles with the inadequate warships it needs to fully protect the European and Israeli vessels, while the US vessels are spared after the Trump administration reached a ceasefire with the rebels in May. While the Houthis' firepower and tactics have rendered European naval power useless, an analyst thinks there is only one power that can protect the sea lanes from the Houthis: the Indian Navy. According to Elizabeth Brough, a senior fellow at the think tank Atlantic Council, the Houthi attacks on vessels should be of particular concern to India, which is the third-largest supplier of seafarers in the world, after the Philippines and Russia. Especially since one of the crew members who died when Houthis sank Liberian-flagged Eternity C was an Indian. The ship was hit by an anti-tank missile while sailing off the coast of Al-Hudaydah. Following the incident, the Philippine government issued an order banning seafarers from working in the Southern Red Sea & Gulf of Aden. A total of 38 Filipino seafarers were caught in these attacks. While many were rescued, several remain missing, and at least three are possibly dead. While India has not yet followed the Philippines lead and banned ships with Indian crews from entering the Red Sea, it can do something else: step up in preventing the attack. Brough argues, in a piece that appeared in Foreign Policy, that India has a large navy, which recently impressed the international community when it bravely rescued sailors captured by Somali pirates. India is also a rising political power and could play a key role in restoring traffic on the Red Sea. With a fleet of about 130 ships, India could choose to act with military resolve. It could join Operation Aspides and send its own ships to the region. The European operation, which recently proposed expanding cooperation with the Indian Navy in the fight against piracy, would surely welcome such an initiative, the analyst added. Brough said India's participation in the operations would nullify the Houthis' claims of targeting only the West. If the Indian Navy begins escorting ships through the Red Sea on a regular basis and protecting them from Houthi attacks it will be even harder for the Houthis to claim they are fighting the West. Given the fact that the Indian Navy is already operating in a relatively nearby area, off the coast of Somalia, its deployment in the Red Sea would be a natural move, she said. The analyst says India would not even need to form a formal alliance with the European Union or any other geopolitical body. At the height of the piracy crisis in the late 2000s, countries from Britain to China cooperated to protect shipping off the coast of Somalia, even without a joint command or binding political alliance. It is a model that could work now, she claims, adding that Operation in the Red Sea could be an opportunity for India to demonstrate the power of its deep-sea fleet and its ability to deal with burning international issues. In this case,New Delhi could lead the way in dealing with a crisis that even the world's most powerful power has not yet been able to contain, she argues. Brough states that though an Indian naval escort alone may not make the entire Red Sea a safe zone, it can certainly make the Gulf of Aden safe enough so that sailors no longer fear for their lives every time they cross. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned Kurdish groups and other factions in Syria against pursuing autonomy, declaring that any attempt to divide the country would be seen as a direct threat to Turkeys national security. He said such efforts could prompt military intervention by Ankara. Speaking at a joint press conference with his Salvadoran counterpart in Ankara on July 22, Fidan reiterated Turkeys opposition to any form of separatism in Syria, while expressing support for Syrias new interim government, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa. If you go beyond integration and use violence to divide and destabilise, we will perceive it as a direct threat to our national security and intervene, he said. Fidans remarks came amid a fresh wave of violence in southern Syria, where clashes between Bedouin Arab tribes and Druze militias have led to Israeli airstrikes on government positions. Israeli forces struck convoys in Sweida province and targeted the Ministry of Defence in Damascus, claiming the attacks were intended to protect the Druze community. The Turkish foreign minister criticised Israels involvement, calling the strikes an attempt to destabilise Syria and derail its recovery. He accused Israel of seeking to fragment Syria for strategic gain and warned that Kurdish groups, particularly the YPG (People's Protection Units), were trying to exploit the unrest for autonomy. Trying to extract autonomy or independence from chaos built on blood and created with someone elses help is a perspective that leads nowhere, he said. Fidan reiterated Turkeys support for the agreement between Syrias interim administration and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate the group into the national army. He said Ankara welcomed cultural and religious diversity within a unified Syria, but drew a red line at any effort towards independence. Say whatever you want, make whatever demands you have as long as its not about division, were ready to help. But if you cross that line, we wont leave ourselves exposed to threats, he added. Since 2016, Turkey has launched several military operations in northern Syria to contain Kurdish fighters and prevent what it considers the establishment of a terror corridor along its border. Ankara views the YPG, which leads the SDF and is backed by the United States, as an extension of the outlawed PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party). Meanwhile, Syrias fragile recovery continues to be threatened by renewed sectarian violence. A government-appointed inquiry committee reported on July 22 that more than 1,400 people were killed in several days of violence along the coastal region this year. The unrest followed the ouster of former president Bashar al-Assad in December. The committee said there was no evidence that Syrias new leadership ordered attacks on Alawite communities, Assads sectarian base, but that 300 suspects had been identified for serious crimes, including murder and looting. Of them, 37 were arrested. Authorities did not confirm whether any of the suspects were members of the security forces. The conflict in Sweida, where Druze militias clashed with Bedouin tribes, also threatens to derail the countrys transition. The fighting reportedly ended with a ceasefire announced by the United States on July 19, following mediation efforts involving Washington, Turkey and Israel. Saudi broadcaster Al-Hadath reported on July 22 that Israel and Syria had resumed dialogue on security matters, with Turkey and the US playing intermediary roles. An Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Baku, Azerbaijan, to finalise understandings with Syrian representatives. The talks are said to focus on establishing a demilitarised zone along the border and allowing a permanent Israeli presence in the buffer zone created after Assads fall. However, reports also indicate that Israel has not committed to ending its strikes in Syria. Axios reported on July 21 that US special envoy to Syria Tom Barrack would lead a meeting between Israeli and Syrian officials on later this week. The discussions are expected to cover security coordination and prevent further destabilisation in southern Syria. Barrack, who also serves as US ambassador to Turkey, has criticised Israels recent military actions, warning they risk undermining the interim Syrian government supported by Washington. Speaking to reporters, he said the atrocities in Sweida were not carried out by regime troops. Theyre not even in the city because they agreed with Israel that they would not go in, he said. Barrack urged Israel to engage in dialogue and allow the US to act as a mediator. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on July 21 that President Trump was caught off guard by the Israeli airstrikes, which several US officials viewed as jeopardising efforts to stabilise Syria under its new leadership. Fidan concluded his remarks by urging all factions in Syria to choose integration over division. Now is the time for unity, he said. Its time for everyone to hold onto life while preserving their identity and beliefs. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued a public response to a UK media report which claimed that the family of a British national who had died in the June 12 Air India crash had allegedly received the wrong body. Reiterating that victims of the AI 171 crash had been identified as per established protocols and technical requirements, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India was actively working with the UK to resolve the issue. Our response to media queries regarding a report in the Daily Mail on the Air India crash https://t.co/pTWIIMSBhi pic.twitter.com/IP9QgLNuz7 Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) July 23, 2025 All mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased, he added. According to the Daily Mail report that alleged the repatriation mix-up, there was also another distressing case in which another family in the UK received the commingled remnants of more than one person killed in the crashall mistakenly placed in the same casket. ALSO READ | Ahmedabad plane crash: Air India finds no issues in Boeing 787, 737 fuel control switches These shocking mistakes came to light when Inner West London coroner Dr Fiona Wilcox sought to verify the repatriated bodies' identities by means of matching their DNA samples with those provided by their families, the report added. Aviation lawyer James Healy-Pratt, originally brought on to represent a number of British families in their fight to unearth the full story of the Air India crash of June 12, and to be fairly compensated, is now investigating this issue as well. He explained that the remains of at least 12 victims have been sent in so far. Dr Wilcox's analyses, however, have now sparked fears of more such errors being made. The devastating Air India crash of June 12 saw as many as 260 people241 onboard, and 19 on the groundkilled after a London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed into a medical college hostel, seconds after take-off. A month after US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir for a private luncheon at the White House, the countrys Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is heading to the US to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This could be the first time a Pakistani civilian leader meets with the top diplomat from the Trump administration. The trip comes amid the USs sudden recalibration of relations with Pakistan, amid years of neglect under Trumps first term and Joe Biden. While India expectedly registered its protest with the US for hosting Munir, the newfound warmth in US-Pakistan relations has ruffled feathers in Beijing too, according to analyst Antara Ghosal Singh with Observer Research Foundation. Singh claims Pakistans endorsement of Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize has triggered public outrage in China, which was seeking to mobilise global public opinion against Trumps tariff tyranny, branding him the destroyer of the global order. According to Chinese commentators, Pakistani military officers flew Chinese fighter jets to guard the countrys airspace, but in the end, laid the credit on the American altar. The Chinese commentators concerns over the sudden warming up of Pakistan-US ties under President Trump are the following: 1) Will the US sabotage CPEC?- In her article, Singh argues that Beijing fears that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) could be sabotaged. The CPEC, a lifeline for China, was envisioned to connect Pakistans Gwadar Port to Afghanistan's Khyber Pass, bypassing the Strait of Malacca. China fears the US could infiltrate the plan. 2) Will Trump pry into Chinas military intel? Asim Munirs meeting with Trump has stoked fears in Beijing that he could try and pry into the latest military insider information about China's weapons and combat systems used during the India-Pakistan air war. 3) Will the US disrupt Chinas Middle East policy? Beijing fears the US could lure Pakistan into standing against Iran. If thats the case, the Islamic worlds only nuclear-armed country could dismantle Chinas anti-Israel stance, the analyst mentions in her article. 4) Will the US-Pakistan cryptocurrency alliance affect China's digital currency layout in South Asia? Some Chinese observers feel the US could make Islamabad into a South Asian encryption centre. This may weaken the cross-border settlement status of the RMB in Pakistan, hinder China's digital currency layout in South Asia, divert energy resources from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and threaten China's overall strategic layout in Pakistan. 5) Will the US hurt China-Pakistan relations? China feels threatened that Pakistans sudden "opportunistic" turnaround could hurt the core pillar of China-Pakistan relationsstrategic mutual trust. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Republic of Maldives from July 25-26 and inaugurate India-funded projects there, marking an end to diplomatic tensions between the two nations that began a year ago. Modi's visit to the Island nation also makes him the first foreign head of government to be hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu, especially on the important occasion of their 60th Independence Day celebrations. Special Briefing by MEA on Prime Ministers visit to the UK & Maldives (July 22, 2025) https://t.co/nbQ629dxdT Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) July 22, 2025 Former Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid praised India's maturity and generosity, declaring that Indians had a "big heart", despite the tensions between the two nations, brought on by Muizzu's policies that were once anti-Indian, as well as the nation's developing relationship with China. "Whenever anything urgent and distressful happens in Maldives, India has never let us down," he added. ALSO READ | From 'India Out' to Guest of Honour: Why Maldives President Muizzu invited PM Modi for Independence Day fete "I think this is testimony to the kind of attention that has been paid to the relationship, including attention at the highest levels Weve continued to work at it, and I think the result is there for you to see, explained India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri at a press conference on Tuesday. Misri was referring to New Delhi's long-term efforts to repair its frosty ties with Maleparticularly the vital financial support it provided in May via the rollover of the $50 million Treasury Bill for one more year. "If not for India, we would have gone default," declared former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed about India's timely financial assistance, as per an Economic Times report. "With mounting financial difficulties and substantial debt repayment obligations for the Maldives, India's timely support has helped us avoid default and maintain economic stability," Nasheed added. India has described Maldives as a very important partner in Indias 'Neighborhood First' policy and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision. It is also important to note that India continued to cooperate with Maldives on maritime security and coastal surveillance, especially after it agreed towithdraw military personnel following the 'India Out' campaign, replacing them with civilians and technical experts instead. New Delhi also continued to be the 'first responder' to Male's calls for help, offering economic and humanitarian aid whenever required. This gradually softened Muizzu's stance against India, marking a significant diplomatic victory for New Delhi, which refused to let China displace its ties with Maldives, and which even began a road to recovery of ties with China through recent high-level talks at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). KIEV, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine lost a French-supplied Mirage 2000 fighter jet on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed early Wednesday. "Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft today, a French machine, a very effective one -- one of our Mirage jets," Zelensky said. The pilot successfully ejected, Zelensky said, noting that the crash was not caused by a Russian attack. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the aircraft went down during a flight mission, causing no casualties on the ground. Ukraine received its first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France in February. The crash marked the first reported incident involving a French-supplied Mirage aircraft in Ukraine. Mirage 2000 is a multi-role, single-engine fighter capable of carrying precision-guided munitions, including SCALP missiles. An Indian student in Australia was ambushed and assaulted by a group of five men in Adelaide, Australia, during a car parking dispute. In a video that was taken by the wife of the man, Charanpreet Singh, 23, the five individuals are seen beating and then kicking him on the ground near Kintore Avenue. She can be heard screaming please don't as she filmed the scene. Singh was out with his wife to see the city light displays at around 9.22 pm when a group of men who were driving behind him approached and dragged him from his car, called him racial slurs and physically assaulted him despite there being no provocation. After the assault, the group rushed to their car and drove off. In an interview with 9News, Singh described the incident, saying, They just said 'F*ck off Indian', and after that, they just started punching me He was then rushed to the hospital for brain trauma and facial fractures. So far, only one of the assailants, a 20-year-old, has been arrested. Singh said, "You can change everything else, but you can't change your skin colour." Things like this, when these things happen, it makes you feel like you should go back, he said in the interview. The Indian community has called for change on social media and rallied to support the student. South Australias Premier Peter Malinauskas told the media, Any time we see any evidence of any racial attack, it is just not consistent with where the majority of our community are at. Another racially motivated incident in Dublin Meanwhile, another Indian man in his 40s was attacked by a gang with racist motivations in Dublin, Ireland, earlier this week. The gang had partially stripped him and then robbed him of his belongings in Tallaght. The man was taken to Tallaght hospital, according to local media reports. The Irish Police (Gardai ) have started their investigations into the incident; however, there have been no arrests made so far. Gardai have asked people not to share the footage related to the incident on social media. The local council leader who met with the man told Irish Independent that He couldnt speak much because of the shock he was in; he only arrived in Ireland three weeks ago. He is not taking any visitors at the moment. "People need to understand that many Indian people moving to Ireland are here on work permits, to study and work in the healthcare sector or in IT and so on, providing critical skills, he added. According to a report by the Irish Times, the man was targeted by a gang who falsely accused him of acting inappropriately around children. A protest to denounce racist violence in Ireland is scheduled to be held on July 26. Two months after the India-Pakistan conflict and subsequent ceasefire, Pakistan continues its mission to appease US President Donald Trump. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is reportedly heading to Washington to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, weeks after he signed papers nominating US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prizefor his extraordinary role in restoring calm in South Asia. While the state has not made clear its agenda, diplomatic sources rushed to cite that one of the objectives was to thank Trump for de-escalating tensions, according to local media reports. Pakistan, which saw Indian attack decimate its terror locations, has been showering praises on Trump for his alleged intervention, despite India stating the decision to ceasefire was taken by the officials of India and Pakistan. This will be Dars first official meeting with Secretary Rubio and also the first visit of a Pakistani civilian leader to the US after the new administration took charge. Earlier, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir met Donald Trump, days before the US launched the military campaign against Pakistan's neighbour, Iran. Though the real agenda behind the meeting scheduled for Friday is unclear, Pakistani diplomatic sources rushed to pin the agenda on India. Besides thanking Trump for his intervention, Dar could also raise the standoff with India, the Kashmir issue, and broader bilateral matters, according to Geo News. Trump has expressed willingness to mediate in the Kashmir issue, but India rejected the offer. Trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and the US may also come up during the talks, diplomatic sources told Geo News. Pakistan is holding on to Trumps newfound interest in the country, as evidenced by Trump hosting the head of Pakistans Army, Asim Munir, without the presence of any civilian officials. According to Pakistan, the duo discussed the continuation of a counter-terrorism collaboration and talked about ways to further strengthen ties. India registered a protest with the US against the meeting. New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) With an India-UK free trade agreement likely to be signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Britain, the Congress on Wednesday claimed that serious questions have emerged on its impact on India's domestic industry. The opposition party's attack came after Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday left on a four-day visit to the UK and the Maldives, expressing confidence that this would boost India's ties with the two countries. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "The Super Premium Frequent Flier jets out of India again today -- this time to the UK and the Maldives. The London trip is for the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which will in fact have pernicious consequences for numerous stakeholders." Among the most significant consequences would be on the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are the backbone of India's economy, the largest employers of India's workers, the object of neglect and the subject of distress in the last 11 years of the Modi Government's policy of favouring a couple of big business groups, Ramesh claimed in a post on X. He said automobile manufacturers will similarly be impacted, as will the pharmaceutical industry. Citing the key issues that have been raised by the noted Delhi-based think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), Ramesh said the FTA would allow British firms to participate in the procurement of goods and services of non-sensitive central government entities. This opens up a huge market of an estimated USD 600 billion to UK firms, he said. "This FTA is a marked shift in government policy -- previously, India had kept government procurement out of trade deals. This is one of the last few remaining arenas of industrial policy available to India to spur local enterprises. That avenue is now endangered," Ramesh said. "The Modi Government has agreed to cut car import duties from 100% to just 10%, marking our first ever auto tariff concession. This will undermine the already feeble Make in India narrative even further and lays the ground for similar concessions with trade partners like the US and the EU," he claimed. This blow to the domestic industry comes at a time of a generational opportunity in automobile manufacturing due to the electrical vehicle transition, he said. "For the first time, India has agreed to patent rules that go beyond the WTO's Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights. This is a historic shift in the Indian Government's policy and signifies a submission to the big pharmaceutical lobby," Ramesh said. This will impact access to affordable medicines within India and endanger our position as a global leader in manufacturing generic drugs, he said. "India has failed to secure an exemption from the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which will allow the UK to impose carbon taxes on Indian products even as we grant them duty-free access. The same precedent will now roll over to the EU, with whom India is currently negotiating," he contended. "Whatever the spin that will be given to the FTA by the peripatetic PM and his drumbeaters, serious questions have now emerged on the impact that this agreement will have on our domestic industry," Ramesh said. In his departure statement, Modi said India and the United Kingdom share a comprehensive strategic partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. He noted that the collaboration between the two countries spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties. "During my meeting with Prime Minister Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, we will have the opportunity to further enhance our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and job creation in both countries," Modi said. The prime minister will also meet King Charles III during the visit. Modi will then travel to the Maldives at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. Kathmandu, Jul 23 (PTI) The Nepal government on Wednesday declared Madhesh Province as a disaster-affected zone, responding to an acute water shortage and prolonged drought that have severely disrupted agriculture and drinking water supplies. All eight districts of the province, often referred to as Nepal's rice bowl, have been grappling with a severe drought for over a month. The decision to declare Madhesh province as a disaster-hit zone was taken during a Cabinet meeting. Only 33 per cent land of the province witnessed paddy plantation, though Nepal recorded an average 70 per cent paddy planting in this monsoon season, officials said. The prolonged lack of rainfall has led to the depletion of groundwater sources, drying up rivers and canals, and causing an extreme shortage of drinking and irrigation water, Water Supply and Irrigation Minister Pradeep Yadav said. Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, addressing the House of Representatives on Wednesday, affirmed the government's commitment to addressing the water crisis in the province. The government is working towards finding long-term and short- term solutions to resolve the water crisis facing the region, he said. There are Agudah events, and there was the Agudah Federal Advocacy Summit, which was held this Wednesday and Thursday in the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C., a historic landmark a stones throw from the White House and a few short blocks from the United States Capitol. Over 24 high-impact hours, the Agudah Summit brought together lawmakers and community leaders to advance a focused, high-level agenda. The Agudah centered the Summit around three core priorities: promoting federal school choice, strengthening bipartisan support for Israel, and confronting antisemitism at the highest levels of government. The Summit was powerful, and unscripted honesty defined nearly every session. The opening session was led by Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, Director of Government Affairs for Agudath Israel of Illinois, and Mordy Herzog, CEO of Royal Wine Corp. It featured John Schilling of the American Federation for Children one of the key strategists behind the scholarship tax credit included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. He walked participants through the coalition-building that made the tax credit possible and credited Agudahs 200-person mission to D.C in April as a turning point. Back then, Agudah delegations representing communities from across the country held over 100 in person meetings with legislators and staff. That massive effort generated momentum on Capitol Hill for the cause. Id walk into congressional offices to discuss the bill, he said, and theyd say, the rabbis were just here about this! Later that afternoon, Howard Tzvi Friedman asked pointed questions to Democrat Representatives Josh Gottheimer, Ritchie Torres, and Jared Moskowitz in an extraordinarily candid conversation about support for Israel within the Democratic Party. With few cameras, the Congressmen spoke openly about being in a party whose base is being dragged left by the rising influence of anti-Israel rhetoric among younger, online-driven progressives. They urged attendees to more fully engage with staffers and second-tier officials who shape long-term political culture and warned against letting Israel become a partisan issue. At a packed cocktail reception later that evening, dozens of lawmakers and senior staffers joined Summit participants to build relationships and cultivate the kind of trust and familiarity that so often turns advocacy into action. At that evenings dinner, Rabbi A.D. Motzen, National Director of Government Affairs, presented an award to Senator Ted Cruz, who arrived directly from the Senate floor, stepping out during a break in the Vote-a-Rama that lasted until 2 AM. The Senator gave an unvarnished, play-by-play account of the battle to preserve the scholarship tax credit in the face of last-minute attempts to strike it from the bill. We worked hand in hand with you, said the Senator. Thank you for your advice, your counsel, your guidance, your manpower, and your wisdom. The Board of Trustees then presented a visibly moved Cruz with a $36,000 donation for the victims of the Texas floods. Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel, the organizations Executive Vice President, publicly thanked the participants and elected officials including those not present at the dinner. In fact, earlier that day, a smaller Agudah delegation presented plaques to the sponsors and champions of the effort to include the federal scholarship credit in the reconciliation bill. Rabbi Zwiebel singled out President Donald J. Trump for special praise for his relentless support for Israel and his decision to bomb Irans nuclear facilities. Special Assistant to the President and White House Jewish liaison, Martin Marks conveyed the Presidents greetings. He also commended Agudahs professionalism, thanking them for being an effective and meaningful advocate for the community. Rabbi Avi Schnall, Agudahs Director of Federal Education Affairs, also announced that Agudahs Washington Office will be moving to Capitol Hill. The relocation reflects the organizations increasingly proactive, hands-on approach to advocacy and the growing impact of its presence in the nations capital. Thursday morning began with remarks from Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. She outlined her teams expanded efforts to combat antisemitism across institutions and jurisdictions. Dhillon was followed by Judge Jeanine Pirro, Interim U.S. Attorney for D.C. Reputed for her tenacious and outspoken legal advocacy, she pledged in no uncertain terms to hold individuals and institutions accountable for anti-Semitic actions. The Summits final speech was a fiery, no holds-barred address from Leo Terrell, senior counsel to the Assistant AG and chair of the DOJs Antisemitism Task Force. He wore a cap with Hadar Goldin the name of an IDF soldier that was abducted murdered by Hamas and whose body still languishes in the clutches of the terror group embroidered across the top and pledged to eliminate anti-Semitism. In a town known for talking points and posturing, the Agudah Summit stood out for its candor and level of engagement, bringing the communitys most pressing priorities to the highest echelons in government with professionalism, dignity and an unmistakable energy. A British F-35B fighter jet stranded at an Indian airport for more than a month, sparking memes and cartoons on social media, took off Tuesday after being repaired by a team of U.K. engineers, an Indian official said. The stealth fighter, one of the worlds most advanced and costing around $115 million, was grounded at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in the southern state of Kerala due to technical snags. The aircraft had hydraulic issues and problems with its auxiliary power unit that have been fixed, said the Thiruvananthapuram official, who wasnt authorized to speak with the media and requested anonymity. The aircraft will fly to a British aircraft carrier in Darwin, Australia, the official said. The British High Commission and U.K.s Ministry of Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The jet was on a regular sortie in the Arabian Sea in June when it ran into bad weather and couldnt return to the Royal Navys flagship aircraft carrier, the HMS Prince of Wales. The aircraft diverted to Thiruvananthapuram and landed safely June 14. The stranded military aircraft, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, triggered A.I.-generated memes in India. A Kerala tourism department social media post showed the plane on the tarmac surrounded by coconut trees with a fictitious five-star review: Kerala is such an amazing place, I dont want to leave. Definitely recommend. The top official at the tourism department, K. Biju, said the post was in good humor. It was our way to appreciate and thank the Brits who are the biggest inbound visitors to Kerala for tourism, Biju said. Another cartoon posted on X showed the plane enjoying snacks with a group of locals against a scenic background. There was speculation in India that the aircraft could be partially dismantled and transported in a cargo plane if repairs were unsuccesful. The U.K. Ministry of Defense dismissed the speculation in a statement. (AP) President Donald Trump on Tuesday escalated his attacks on former President Barack Obama and members of his administration, calling for their prosecution from the Oval Office and accusing them of orchestrating a treasonous conspiracy to undermine his 2016 election victory. Trumps comments came in response to a question about the Epstein Files, though he quickly pivoted to what he called the real scandal former President Obamas alleged role in a plot to rig the 2016 election. They caught President Obama, Trump said. They tried to rig the election, and they got caught. There should be very severe consequences for that. The president cited a declassified report released last week by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. In the report, Gabbard alleges that top Obama-era officials publicly sounded alarms about Russian interference while privately acknowledging the threat was overstated. She claimed the intelligence community concluded that Russia lacked both the intent and the capacity to alter the elections outcome. This was treason, Trump said. This was every word you can think of. They tried to steal the election. Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman who now serves as Trumps intelligence chief, told Fox News over the weekend that she has referred her findings to the Department of Justice. She also accused former officials of attempting to usurp both Trump and the American electorate by initiating the Russia investigation. Trump, visibly agitated, expanded his accusations to include former Vice President Joe Biden, former CIA Director John Brennan, and former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, describing them as part of a gang led by Obama. He reiterated his call for consequences and said the time had come to go after people. Trump also revisited past decisions not to pursue charges against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, referring to her as the ex-wife of a president she remains married to former President Bill Clinton, at least officially. Critics have questioned the timing and substance of the accusations, suggesting the renewed focus on Obama-era officials may be an attempt to divert attention from fallout surrounding the Epstein documents. Nonetheless, Trump doubled down on his message: After what they did to me its time to go after people. Your browser does not support the video tag. Your browser does not support the video tag. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A wildfire burning in a sparsely populated region of central Oregon has become the largest fire this year and is on the verge of surpassing 100,000 acres to become whats officially known as a megafire. Nearly 900 personnel have been battling the Cram Fire about 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Portland, and they have it about 73% contained with more than 95,000 acres burned. Heres a look at what megafires are and their increasing frequency in the warming world. What is a megafire? A megafire is generally defined as a fire that burns at least 100,000 acres, said Craig Clements, a climate scientist and director of the Wildfire Interdisciplinary Research Center at San Jose State University. That translates to about 156 square miles (404 square kilometers), or about half the size of New York City, which has a land area of 300 square miles (778 square kilometers). Not all researchers agree that megafire is a scientifically sound term, though Clements has used it, and with its usage by the media increasing, he believes its here to stay, similar to heat dome and other popular weather labels that arent formal scientific terms. References to 100,000 acres as megafires can also be found in some government reports and research in recent years. Are megafires happening more often? There were at least 14 wildfires that burned more than 100,000 acres in the U.S. in 2024, according to a report by the National Interagency Coordination Center. A 2022 Interior Department report found that the number of megafires, which it defined as more than 100,000 acres, had increased in the preceding decade. The amount of forest area burned each year in the western U.S. has approximately tripled since the 1980s, according to Brian Harvey, professor of forest fire science at the University of Washington. The link between wildfires and climate change The link between climate change and the increasing frequency of severe wildfires is particularly noticeable in the western U.S. and the boreal forest that stretches from Canada into Alaska, Harvey said, because these fire-prone ecosystems rely on winter snowpack to provide moisture all summer, and global warming has led to less snow, melting earlier in the year. Wildfires naturally occur in healthy ecosystems, but extreme wildfires can slow the regrowth of native plants and trees and create favorable conditions for invasive species. The threat is growing as climate change can make wildfires more frequent and severe, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Wildfire seasons are also influenced by lightning, land management practices and human-caused fires. Fires started by humans account for 70-90% of wildfires depending on the state and year, according to the USDA. This includes fires started by fireworks or discarded cigarettes. Rising temperatures and longer droughts have dried out plants and leaves, driving wildfires in the western U.S. over the past 20 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Fires are getting bigger and this has been linked to drying of fuels from a warming climate, Clements said. Large fires are, by definition, fires that are driven by extreme weather conditions like really high temperatures, low relative humidity and strong winds, said James Johnston, assistant research professor at the University of Oregon. Climate change explains much of this weather, which is increasing the frequency of large, fast-moving fires, he added. When and how did the Cram Fire start? Firefighters responded to a fire burning on private land along U.S. Route 97 in the Willowdale area on July 13, according to Central Oregon Fire Information. It just over 2 square miles (6 square kilometers) at the time, and uncontained. By the next day, it had grown so much that Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act after county officials requested assistance, allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources to support local agencies. It was the sixth time this wildfire season that the governor invoked the act. The cause is under investigation. What kind of damage has it caused? The fire has destroyed two homes and 14 outbuildings such as barns, pump houses, workshops or sheds, officials said. The threat to structures was significantly reduced when containment reached 73%, officials said Monday. Some evacuations remained in effect Monday, but some zones have been downgraded (AP) BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese police smashed over 590 organizations of the gang nature during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), according to the Ministry of Public Security on Wednesday. Former President Barack Obama issued a rare and sharply worded statement Tuesday night, dismissing as bizarre and outrageous President Donald Trumps explosive accusation that he was the ringleader behind the yearslong Trump-Russia investigation a probe now again in the national conversation after a new wave of declassified documents and a criminal referral from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Trump, speaking from the Oval Office on Tuesday, accused Obama of personally masterminding the so-called Russiagate narrative in coordination with top national security officials, Hillary Clinton, and the Democratic National Committee. President Obama. He started it, Trump insisted. It was his idea. The accusation followed Gabbards bombshell release of declassified intelligence, which she said contains overwhelming evidence that Obamas national security apparatus deliberately politicized intelligence to frame Trump and fuel the Trump-Russia collusion narrative despite internal assessments warning the intelligence was unfounded. Trump called for a full criminal investigation into Obama and a slew of former top officials including Joe Biden, James Clapper, John Brennan, Susan Rice, Loretta Lynch, and Andrew McCabe. They were all there, Trump said. This is the room, he added, gesturing around the Oval Office. Never has a thing like this happened in the history of our country. Obamas office dismissed the claims. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, said spokesman Patrick Rodenbush. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. The denial, however, sidestepped the growing focus on internal communications now surfacing through declassified memos including a 2016 briefing in which then-CIA Director Brennan informed Obama of an alleged plan approved by Clinton to vilify Donald Trump by stirring up a scandal claiming interference by the Russian security service. That briefing was forwarded to FBI Director James Comey and counterintelligence officials with the subject line Crossfire Hurricane the now-notorious code name for the FBIs investigation into Trump campaign officials. While Special Counsel Robert Muellers $32 million investigation found no criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russian operatives, it also failed to explain the origins of the investigation itself prompting Attorney General Bill Barr to appoint John Durham as special counsel to probe its beginnings. Durhams findings were damning: He concluded that the FBI failed to act on clear warnings that it was being manipulated by a Clinton-driven effort to smear Trump. The discredited Steele dossier, funded by the Clinton campaign through law firm Perkins Coie, was central to obtaining secret surveillance warrants on Trump campaign aide Carter Page despite being labeled internet rumor by the intelligence community. Now, with Gabbards declassification of previously secret documents and her criminal referral to the DOJ, the spotlight is turning back on Obama and his senior advisers. The newly public materials suggest that intelligence officials knew Clinton operatives were attempting to manufacture a scandal and proceeded anyway. Trump, whose administration has reportedly secured thousands more documents on the matter, signaled that additional disclosures are coming. They figured they could just classify this and it would disappear, Trump said. It doesnt work that way. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) New York Republican Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), who represents Monsey and surrounding areas in the House of Representatives, announced Wednesday that he will not be running for governor in 2026, ending months of speculation surrounding his political future. Instead, Lawler will seek reelection to his battleground House seat in New Yorks 17th Congressional District. The decision comes as Lawler braces for a challenging campaign to retain his seat, which is considered one of the most competitive in the country. By stepping aside, Lawler clears the way for Congresswoman Elise Stefanikone of President Donald Trumps most prominent alliesto pursue the GOP gubernatorial nomination without significant opposition. Your browser does not support the video tag. THIS STORY WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON THE MONSEY SCOOP CLICK HERE SIGN UP TO THE MONSEY SCOOP WHATSAPP STATUS TO BE INFORMED OF MONSEY NEWS IN LIVE TIME (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Activists on Wednesday called for more protests of a new law that they say weakens Ukraines anti-corruption watchdogs, following the first major anti-government demonstration in over three years of war. The legislation also has drawn rebukes from European Union officials and international rights groups, as well as putting increased pressure on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and endangering his public support at a critical phase of the war. Later Wednesday, delegations from Russia and Ukraine were set to meet in Istanbul for a third round of direct talks in two months, although hopes for a breakthrough were low. In the morning, Zelenskyy convened the heads of Ukraines key anti-corruption and security agencies in response to the outcry against his decision to approve the law that was passed by parliament. We all hear what society says, Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram after the meeting. But he insisted the new legal framework was needed to crack down harder on corruption. Criminal cases should not drag on for years without verdicts, and those working against Ukraine must not feel comfortable or immune from punishment, he said. Zelenskyy said all government agencies agreed to work constructively and respond to public expectations for fairness and effectiveness. A detailed joint action plan is expected within two weeks, aimed at addressing institutional weaknesses, removing legal hurdles, and ensuring justice across the board, he said. Thousands of people gathered in the capital and other cities Tuesday to urge Zelenskyy to veto the controversial bill. After he approved it, activists went on social media to call for another demonstration Wednesday night in central Kyiv. Zelenskyy has been the international face of Ukraines determination to defeat Russias all-out invasion, and his domestic troubles are an unwelcome diversion from the war effort. The legislation tightens government oversight of two key anti-corruption agencies. Critics say the step could significantly weaken the independence of those agencies and give Zelenskyys circle greater influence over investigations. EU officials warn of possible setback to joining bloc Fighting entrenched corruption is crucial for Ukraines aspirations to join the EU and maintain access to billions of dollars in Western aid in the war. Limiting the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption agency hampers Ukraines way towards the EU, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned in a post on X. EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius, also on X, noted: In war, trust between the fighting nation and its leadership is more important than modern weapons difficult to build and to keep, but easy to lose with one significant mistake by the leadership. The Ukrainian branch of Transparency International criticized the parliaments decision, saying it undermines one of the most significant reforms since 2014, when Ukrainians ousted a pro-Moscow president in what they called the Revolution of Dignity, and damages trust with international partners. It accused authorities of dismantling the countrys anti-corruption architecture. Zelenskyy said the new law clears out Russian influence from fighting corruption and ensures punishment for those found guilty of it. He cited years of delays in criminal proceedings involving huge amounts of money. The cases that have been lying dormant must be investigated, he said in a Telegram post early Wednesday. For years, officials who have fled Ukraine have been casually living abroad for some reason - in very nice countries and without legal consequences - and this is not normal, he said. He didnt give examples of what he said was Russian interference. The legal changes in Ukraine would grant the prosecutor general new authority over investigations and cases handled by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko, appointed by Zelenskyy just over a month ago, said the anti-corruption watchdogs and other law enforcement agencies would keep working as before. The prosecutor general has only been granted broader powers and an increased scope of authority, Kravchenko told a news conference as officials moved to ease public concern. The anger and frustration among war-weary Ukrainians prevailed in the crowd Tuesday. Some protesters accused Ukraines leadership of prioritizing loyalty and personal connections over fighting corruption. Those who swore to protect the laws and the constitution have instead chosen to shield their inner circle, even at the expense of Ukrainian democracy, said veteran Oleh Symoroz, who lost both legs after he was wounded in 2022. Russian officials relished Zelenskyys difficulties, although Moscow faces its own series of corruption cases against government and military officials. A third round of direct talks on the war The third direct meeting between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Turkey in as many months wasnt expected to make progress on ending the war and would likely focus on further exchanges of prisoners of war. Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian delegation in Istanbul will again insist on the need for an immediate and complete ceasefire, including strikes on civilian infrastructure. Russian drone strikes knocked out power to more than 220,000 customers in Ukraines northeastern Sumy region, Zelenskyy said on Telegram, adding that repairs restored most of the supply in hours. Ukrainian and Western officials have accused the Kremlin of stalling in the talks in order for its bigger army to capture more Ukrainian land. Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Russia with severe economic sanctions and said more American weapons, paid for by European countries, would go to Ukraine. Trump hardened his stance toward Moscow after months of frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin about unsuccessful talks for a ceasefire. Trump gave Russia until early September to agree to a ceasefire. (AP) A U.S. government employee has been banned from leaving China after traveling there in a personal capacity, the State Department said Tuesday, marking the latest case where Beijing has stopped U.S. nationals from departing the country. The State Department did not reveal the identity of the employee at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which is part of the Commerce Department, but said it is tracking this case very closely and that it is engaged with Chinese officials to resolve the situation as quickly as possible. The Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens, it said. The Chinese government restricts people from leaving the country if they are involved in investigations, including business disputes, but it has been accused of using the tool to arbitrarily keep both Chinese and foreign nationals in the country. Chinas use of the exit ban and other concerns previously prompted the State Department to tell Americans to reconsider travel to China. The travel advisory was only eased in November after China released three U.S. citizens who were detained for years. Its one of the latest instances of such travel restrictions. The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Chenyue Mao, a U.S.-based Wells Fargo banker, was blocked from leaving China, prompting the bank to suspend all travel to the country. Citing privacy and other considerations, the State Department did not comment on Maos case. Wells Fargo said Tuesday that it is closely tracking this situation and working through the appropriate channels so our employee can return to the United States as soon as possible. Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry, said Mao is involved in a criminal case currently being handled by Chinese law-enforcement authorities and that she is subject to exit restrictions in accordance with the law. Let me stress that it is an individual judicial case, Guo said. China will as always welcome people from all countries to travel and do business in China and ensure their rights and interests in accordance with the law. Asked about the case involving the U.S. government employee, Guo said: I have no details to share. China upholds the rule of law and handles entry and exit affairs in accordance with the law. Other Americans have faced Chinas exit ban. Two American siblings were only allowed to leave China in 2021 after they were stranded there for three years after visiting their relatives. (AP) The IDF held a comprehensive situational assessment meeting on Monday at which security, intelligence, and strategic issues in all arenas were discussed. It was the first meeting of its kind in about two years. During IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamirs speech, he emphasized that the IDF must be prepared for the continuation of an extensive war campaign, while maneuvering in a complex and multi-arena security reality. Zamir said, The IDF must operate offensively in a number of arenas alongside essential defense in all arenas and along our borders. We will continue to maintain air superiority and advance intelligence efforts. Addressing the prolonged war in Gaza, Zamir said, The war in the Gaza Strip is one of the most complex the IDF has ever faced. Weve accomplished very great achievements. The Southern Command continues to lead with regular and reserve brigades that operate on a daily basis, offensively and defensively. We are paying a heavy price in battlewe saw that just today. We will continue and act to achieve our goalsthe return of the hostages and the destruction of Hamas. We are operating in multiple arenas. We will continue to weaken and prevent Syria and Hezbollah from reaching strategic capabilities and maintain our freedom of action. We are operating in Yehudah and Shomron and continuing our constant battle against terrorism. Iran and its axis remain in in our sightsthe war against Iran is not over. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Antisemitic hate crimes in Chicago rose by a staggering 58% in 2024, according to a new city report, even as overall hate crimes fell by 25% across most other categories. The spike has drawn sharp criticism from Jewish groups of the citys political leadership, particularly Mayor Brandon Johnson, whose past actions and statements have already brought up the question of whether he cares about or is even opposed to the safety of Jewish Chicagoans. The Chicago Commission on Human Relations 2024 Hate Crimes Report, submitted to the mayors office, found that 79 anti-Jewish incidents were recorded in the city last year, up from 50 in 2023. Jewish residentswho comprise just 3% of Chicagos populationwere the most frequently targeted group, accounting for 37.6% of all hate crimes in the city. This is part of a national increase in anti-Jewish hate crimes but is especially troubling given the small size of the Jewish community in Chicago, the mayors office acknowledged in a statement, calling the trend of particular alarm. By comparison, hate crimes targeting Black residents fell by more than 50%, from 76 to 33 incidents. Other categoriesincluding anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate crimeseither declined or remained flat. Of the antisemitic incidents in 2024, 47% involved criminal damage to property, 8% were assaults, and 5% were batteries. City officials did not provide complete figures for anti-gay hate crimes but acknowledged they had also risen. Johnson, who in January 2024 cast the tie-breaking vote for a City Council resolution demanding a Gaza ceasefire, has faced repeated criticism for his anti-Israel posturing. In April, the Chicago Jewish Alliance condemned him for being photographed wearing a keffiyeh. The Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest has also issued several statements condemning Johnsons rhetoric and appointments, including a school board president who reportedly posted antisemitic content and expressed support for Hamas. The Jewish Community Relations Council announced it would convene two public hearings to address the unnerving trend of antisemitic hate crimes in the city. While federal officials have reported a national rise in antisemitic incidents since the October 7 Hamas-led terror attack on Israel, the sharp increase in Chicagoand the political environment surrounding ithas prompted calls for a more forceful response at the local level. The data are clear: antisemitism is growing in Chicago, and city leaders must meet this moment with urgency, the JCRC said in a statement. This is not just a statistical trendits a safety crisis. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) An Israeli missile strike in the final hours before last months ceasefire reportedly killed a senior Iranian nuclear scientist at the heart of the countrys clandestine weapons program, according to a new report by the opposition-linked outlet Iran International. The scientist, Mohammad Reza Sadighi, was described as a leading explosives expert central to Irans nuclear ambitions. Iran International labeled him Irans hope for acquiring a nuclear bomb, citing his decades-long involvement in developing the explosive core of a nuclear weapon. The strike occurred at approximately 1:07 a.m. on June 23 in the city of Astaneh Ashrafieh in Gilan province, northwest of Tehran less than three hours before the ceasefire between Israel and Iran took effect. Witnesses told the outlet they heard a small plane and a fighter jet in the area shortly before the explosions rocked the neighborhood. Although Sadighi was publicly presented as a Defense Ministry researcher involved in Irans COVID-19 vaccine development, Iran International reported that this was a cover for his real work in the Islamic Republics military nuclear program. His family, according to the outlet, was unaware of the true nature of his activities. A trained nuclear engineer, Sadighi held a doctorate and was affiliated with Malek Ashtar University of Technology a Defense Ministry-run institution long linked to Irans weapons development efforts. He previously led the Research and Technology Center for Advanced Chemical Materials, a division connected to nuclear explosives work, and chaired a chemical company supplying materials for weapons production. Sadighis involvement reportedly extended to advanced computer modeling of explosive tests and simulations essential to nuclear weapons design. Documents bearing his name were among the trove seized during Israels 2018 raid on Irans nuclear archive, according to Iran International. The scientist had narrowly escaped death on the wars opening day, June 13, in an earlier Israeli strike that killed nine other Iranian nuclear experts. Sadighis 17-year-old son died in that attack. He subsequently went into hiding at his father-in-laws home, where he was ultimately killed. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Columbia University is handing down sweeping disciplinary action against more than 70 students tied to two of the most disruptive protests in its recent history: the takeover of Butler Library in May 2025 and the sprawling anti-Israel encampment that gripped the Morningside Heights campus last spring. Speaking to the NY Post, sources familiar with the proceedings said the majority of students will face suspensions ranging from one to three years, with several expelled outright following a probe by the University Judicial Board. Most of those suspended are expected to serve two-year terms. The suspensions come after the Trump administration cut $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia University in March, citing the universitys failure to address antisemitism on campus The crackdown follows a dramatic May 7 incident in which demonstrators stormed Butler Library, interrupting students preparing for final exams. Protesters many wearing keffiyehs and chanting Free, free Palestine banged drums, clapped, and waved Palestinian flags throughout the library during a five-hour standoff. Tables were marked with tape, walls were defaced, and chaos reigned until police intervened. Two public safety officers were injured in the initial surge. Acting Columbia President Claire Shipman, facing mounting concern over campus safety, authorized the NYPD to intervene. Dozens of protesters were zip-tied and removed from the scene, an image that quickly circulated in national media. The Butler Library chaos came a year after Columbia endured weeks of upheaval during a tent encampment that drew fierce criticism and praise for its vocal opposition to Israel and its impact on campus life. In a statement released Monday, Columbia explained the disciplinary actions as necessary for preserving the universitys academic mission. To create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules, a university spokesperson said. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Senior Palestinian Authority official Hussein al-Sheikh met Tuesday with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee in Ramallah the first such high-level meeting between the Palestinian leadership and a Trump-appointed diplomat. The meeting marks a shift from the PAs posture during President Donald Trumps first term, when officials, including then-Ambassador David Friedman, were openly boycotted by Ramallah for their strong pro-settlement views. Huckabee, who assumed the ambassadorship during Trumps second term, shares similar views regarding Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank. Nonetheless, Tuesdays meeting signals a pragmatic turn in the PAs approach, reflecting growing desperation as its political standing and economic viability continue to deteriorate. According to a statement shared on social media by Sheikh, the two discussed a range of urgent regional issues, with a particular focus on the war in Gaza. Sheikh emphasized the importance of securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, while also pressing for the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to the Strip, where reports of deaths linked to malnutrition continue to mount. The conversation also addressed the Palestinian Authoritys spiraling financial crisis, the dire economic situation in the West Bank, and the rising tide of violence by Israeli settlers, which Palestinian officials say has gone unchecked. Ways to strengthen bilateral relations were explored, as well as the importance of the American role in achieving stability, security, and peace in the region, Sheikh wrote. The meeting comes at a moment of growing concern over the PAs stability, with international actors warning that further deterioration could lead to a complete breakdown of governance in the West Bank. Ramallah has recently increased its outreach to both Arab and Western governments, hoping to secure renewed political support and economic aid amid mounting internal pressure and Israeli sanctions. While the gesture of hosting Huckabee is unlikely to sit well with some factions inside the Palestinian leadership, it may reflect a broader recognition that engagement with U.S. officials regardless of political affiliation is necessary for the PAs survival. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) MK Moshe Gafni of Degel HaTorah has withdrawn his candidacy for the coalitions seat on the Judicial Selection Committee, announcing his support for fellow United Torah Judaism (UTJ) lawmaker MK Yisrael Eichler of the Agudas Yisroel faction. Degel HaTorah, the Litvishe wing of UTJ, released a statement saying Gafni calls on Knesset members to support the candidacy of the Agudas Yisroel representative for the position. The move is seen as an attempt to preserve unity within the broader UTJ bloc, following rising political tension in the wake of the governments failure to pass a long-promised draft exemption law for yeshiva students. Although both Gafni and Eichler referred to the position as the Knesset representative, the seat in question is, in fact, reserved for a coalition member on the Judicial Selection Committee elected only by coalition MKs. Eichlers eligibility remains uncertain, however, as UTJ officially left the government last week in protest of the stalled draft legislation. Also in the running is MK Yinon Azoulay of the Shas party, which likewise exited the government last week but continues to operate within the coalition framework. The race for the influential post comes just months after the government passed controversial reforms to the Judicial Selection Committee. The changes eliminated both seats previously held by the Israel Bar Association, replacing them with one lawyer appointed by the coalition and another by the opposition. The new structure also gives each political bloc coalition, opposition, and judiciary veto power over the appointment of lower court judges. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) JAKARTA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has called for reforms in state revenues, stricter control of the budget deficit, and focused spending on priority sectors, aiming to make the state budget a driving force for economic growth, a minister said in a statement issued on Wednesday. In a fiscal policy meeting held at the State Palace that concluded on Tuesday night, Prabowo emphasized the need for deregulatory measures to foster a conducive business climate and promote sustainable economic growth, according to Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati. "The president's directives are very comprehensive. Reforms on the state revenue side will continue so that we can ensure adequate state revenue. Spending will be focused on key programs," she stated. Mulyani added that the president stressed the importance of reducing excessive regulations to support economic growth beyond reliance on state spending alone. She also highlighted the need for regulatory improvements to facilitate business, investment, and trade, particularly in strengthening the role and governance of the national superholding agency, Danantara. "The president stated that if market confidence is maintained, our economy will remain strong, and support for the economy through the state budget, including countercyclical measures, can be effectively implemented," said Mulyani. Five months after returning to Israel following more than eight years in Hamas captivity, Avraham Mengistu was discharged Tuesday from Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, marking a major milestone in his long road to recovery. Im excited, Mengistu, 38, said briefly as he left the hospital, where he had been receiving intensive care since his release. Mengistus family issued a statement thanking the medical staff for their dedication and compassion. The dedicated, intensive, and sensitive care Avraham and our family received has made this moment possible, the family said. His transition to a more suitable living arrangement is a dream finally coming true. His sister, Almensh Mengistu, praised the progress he has made since returning home. Despite all the hardships and setbacks, hes undergone a significant rehabilitation process, she said. Im very proud of the path hes taken since his return. Hospital officials said Mengistus discharge is the culmination of a months-long process of physical and emotional rehabilitation. The compassionate and professional treatment at Ichilov was the first real step in bridging the long years of captivity with his return to himself and to the community, the family added. We thank the staff for their ongoing support and their promise to continue accompanying Avraham. Mengistu, a resident of Ashkelon, crossed into Gaza on September 7, 2014, after walking from Zikim Beach to the border fence. Despite being observed by Israeli security forces, he was allowed to cross without intervention and was immediately taken captive by Hamas. The incident was initially placed under a gag order, and it wasnt until 2015 that the Israeli public learned he was alive and being held in Gaza. Over the years, Hamas released a number of videos showing Mengistu. In a widely circulated video from January 2023, he appeared disoriented, dressed in a blue shirt, and asked the camera: Until when must I remain here? Mengistus release earlier this year came as part of a broader agreement that also saw the return of other Israeli captives. His case, in particular, had drawn criticism and soul-searching within Israel over the initial handling of his disappearance and the years-long effort to secure his release. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The family of Israeli hostage Rom Braslavski is demanding answers after Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) announced Tuesday that it had lost contact with the terror cell holding him in Gaza. The announcement follows a reported Israeli operation in the area where Braslavski was believed to be held. No one knows where Rom isnot the IDF, not PIJ. The only thing we were ever told is that he is being held alone, the Braslavski family said in a statement. We are heartbroken and in pain. The family added that they had requested an emergency meeting with senior Israeli defense officials, but only one member of the security cabinet responded. We want to know where our son is. We want those responsible to sit with us and present the full picturenot fragments of information or partial truths, the statement continued. Braslavski, who was kidnapped by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 massacre at the Nova Music Festival, was 19 at the time and had reportedly stayed behind to assist wounded concertgoers as a volunteer medic. He has been held incommunicado since, and his family says they have received no updates on his condition or whereabouts for more than a year. For more than a year, we havent had a single shred of information about whats happening to him, said his cousin, Adam Hajj, in an interview with KAN. We dont know if hes eating or drinking, or if hes even being kept warm. The family also criticized remarks by National Missions Minister Orit Strock of the Religious Zionism Party, who suggested that the IDF should operate in all areas of Gazaeven if it endangers the lives of hostages. There should be no do-not-touch zones in Gaza, Strock said. To win this war, we need to take control of these areas as well. The Braslavski family called Strocks statement insensitive and cruel, urging her to imagine herself in our position. If she could feel what I, Tami, feel as a mother, she wouldnt be able to speak the way she did, the statement read. Lets see if then theyd still prioritize land over hostages. Democratic Party chairman MK Yair Golan also weighed in, condemning the news as a nightmare coming true. If we do not bring back the hostages, we risk losing them forever, Golan posted on X. For the people of Israel, this is a nightmare coming true; for the Israeli government, it is policy. We must reach a deal now. We must bring the hostages home. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Queens Assemblyman and Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is facing a firestorm of backlash after a resurfaced video shows him mocking Zionists during a 2023 speech before the Democratic Socialists of America the latest flashpoint in a long trail of anti-Israel comments that critics say cross into outright antisemitism. In the video, Mamdani tells the crowd, If you dont clap for El-Yateem, youre a Zionist! referring to Khader El-Yateem, a Lutheran pastor and Palestinian activist who ran unsuccessfully for City Council in 2017. Your browser does not support the video tag. The turning of Zionist into a slur in mainstream western liberal spaces is the most significant antisemitic development of the 21st century, said Blake Flayton, a Jewish activist and host of the podcast We Should All Be Zionists, who first posted the clip to social media. This man is about to be mayor of New York, Flayton warned. I dont think people yet understand how much of a code red situation this is. Democratic Majority for Israel co-founder Todd Richman called Mamdanis remarks disgusting, saying, Enough of the Ill protect the Jewish community. Im sorry, but I dont believe him. He has been perpetuating an anti-Zionist and therefore anti-Jewish agenda since college. The video is just the latest in a series of comments and positions that have alarmed pro-Israel New Yorkers. Mamdani has been an outspoken supporter of the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement, which the Anti-Defamation League classifies as antisemitic for targeting the worlds only Jewish state. In 2023, Mamdani led a pro-Palestinian rally where he chanted BDS! and publicly condemned fellow Democrats who traveled to Israel. During that same DSA speech, Mamdani doubled down on his ideology: We mean what we say when we say we have a socialist politic. It is consistent, it is universal, and it stands for justice in every place with no exception. Critics say his version of justice seems to single out Israel for condemnation. Though Mamdanis has not commented on the newly resurfaced footage, the candidate has previously refused to condemn radical slogans like globalize the intifada, only later saying he now discourages their use after meeting with Jewish leaders. He also once appeared to defend al Qaeda propagandist Anwar al-Awlaki in a series of 2015 tweets, blaming the U.S. for his radicalization. Since winning the Democratic primary, Mamdani has been on a calculated charm offensive, meeting with Jewish leaders and business executives in an attempt to broaden his base ahead of the November general election. But his past is proving difficult to outrun. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Agudas Yisrael issued a special Kol Koreh on Wednesday morning regarding the appalling situation of the desecration of ancient Jewish kevarim in the city of Yehud, where a construction company has been digging up an ancient beis kevaros. Out of a feeling of tzar for chillul kavod hameis, the Gedolim decided to call for a special day of tefillah in Eretz Yisrael and Chutz LEretz regarding the situationon Thursday, erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av, a day that symbolizes the beginning of the aveilus over the Churban. The letter states, Every Jewish heart is filled with sorrow and anguish over the desecration of the ancient Jewish dead in the city of Yehud. The owners of the Aura Company, for the sake of monetary gain, are desecrating the kevarim and disturbing their menuchah without heart or conscience by destroying their kevarim, removing their bones from their place, and building residential units on the burial site. Woe that this has come to pass in our days, that the passuk is fulfilled: But if you do not obey the Kol Hashem and rebel against the word of Hashem, then the hand of Hashem will be against you and your fathers (Shmuel 12:15), which Chazal interpret (Yevamot 63b)Rabba bar Shmuel said, This refers to the violation of kevarim (Rashi: disturbing kevarimremoving the buried from their kevarim), as its said, Due to the sins of the living, the dead are disturbed.' How appalling this is, especially in these days when the entire Klal Yisrael needs Rachamei Shamayim and certainly to be protected from things that constitute a severe kitrug, chas vshalom. May our cries be heard by reciting Tehillim, each and every one according to the minhag of his community, on Thursday, Rosh Chodesh, Menachem Av. And we call to stop them immediately and restore the kavod of the meisim and their menuchah. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Israeli teens were attacked overnight Tuesday during a vacation in Rhodes, Greece, hours after pro-Hamas protesters prevented tourists arriving by ship from Israel from entering the country, Ynet reported. Israeli sources said that the assailants were of Turkish origin and were armed with knives. Yoav, a teen who was attacked, told Ynet, A commotion started when we were inside the club, and we said that it wasnt for us and that we wanted to go back to the apartment. We started walking back home via a shortcut, hoping we wouldnt meet them and instead of continuing on the main street, we turned into an alley. One of the pro-Palestinians met us and asked if we were the ones who were in the club. We said no and wanted to start moving on. Suddenly we saw a huge group of them and we started running away. We split into two groups, with each group going to a different place. At some point we thought we had lost them, and then we heard the noise of motorcycles coming towards us. Each of us tried to hide in a different place. I hid behind a van, and they caught me and beat me. They asked where my friends were, and I said I didnt know. They asked me to call them, and I said I didnt have Wi-Fi. I told them I wasnt Israeli. They asked to see a passport, and I said it wasnt on me. There was one punch that really hurt. I cried part of the time and pretended to faint so they would stop. As bad as these people are, there was one who understood that it was enough, and they left. I returned to the apartment scared, and every time I saw a motorcycle, I trembled with fear and hid. It was really traumatic. We wont be going back to Greece anytime soon. Orit Gutman, Shachars mother, told Ynet, They went out to spend time in a place known as a place for Israelis. When they went inside, they saw that there were pro-Palestinians there causing trouble. They decided to leave but then a group was waiting for them outside and started chasing them. The assailants managed to catch some of the boys and beat them. My son managed to escape with another friend, hid behind a wall, and contacted us. We spoke with the Foreign Ministry, and in the meantime two Swedes took them to their hotel and called the police, who took all of them to the airport. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Mysterious explosions at a rate of one to two per day have rocked the Islamic Republic over the past month, with the blasts occurring at oil refineries, factories, and even apartment buildings near major airports. In public, the regime has maintained silence or claimed the explosions were accidents due to aging infrastructure. But in private, several senior Iranian officials, including an IRGC member, told the New York Times that they suspect that Israel is behind the acts of sabotage (without providing any evidence). Although admitting that Iran has many enemies, the officials cited the Mossads long history of covert operations inside Iran. It should be noted that, as YWN reported earlier this week, some Iranian experts believe that the sabotage is being committed by disgruntled Afghan migrant workers, who were expelled en masse from the country following the war with Israel. However, Iranian leaders have refrained from publicly blaming Israel due to fears it could trigger another war while its military capabilities are still depleted. The governments lack of transparency and vague responses have only made things worse, said Omid Memarian, an Iran expert with the Washington-based group DAWN. People know the regime often covers up or denies Israeli attacks. Some Iranians have resorted to humor about the situation, circulating memes of Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu dressed as an Iranian gas technician. But the jokes cant disguise the growing disquiet. In cities close to nuclear sites, like Kashan, residents said they are living in fear. A lot of us think Israel is behind this and that war could start again, a cafe owner said. Were scared and paranoid. Were not in a cease-fire, said Mahdi Mohammadi, a conservative political adviser, in a recent Telegram speech. Were in a fragile pause. It could end at any moment, and the war could begin again. Israeli officials declined to comment to the NYT. However, the report quoted a speech by Mossad chief David Barnea last month, who said, We will continue to keep a close watch on every project in Iran, which we know thoroughly. We will be there, just as we have been up until now. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) The Islamic Republic was facing an economic crisis even before the war with Israel, and it is now struggling to rehabilitate the country and its depleted military capabilities. However, the fanatical Ayatollah regime is not allowing the situation to get in the way of its hatred for the Jewish state and is continuing to tend to its terror proxies more than its own citizens. According to a report by Israels Channel 13 News, Iran transferred approximately $100 million to Hamas last month. Since Tehran didnt succeed in transferring the money directly to the Gaza Strip, the sum was transferred to Turkeywhere it is being held as a guarantee, intended to ensure Hamass continued loyalty to Tehran and its status as an Iranian proxy on Israels border. Additionally, Iran continues to transfer funds to the Hezbollah terror organization in Lebanon. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee visited the home of HaGaon HaRav Dov Landau in Bnei Brak on Wednesday. The fascinating meeting lasted about 25 minutes. During the conversation, the Rosh Yeshiva raised the topic of the crisis of the Olam HaTorah amid the draft law negotiations. HaRav Landau asked the ambassador to convey a direct message to US President Donald Trump about the importance of lomdei Torah to the Jewish people and the need to ensure the continued existence and prosperity of the Olam HaTorah even in challenging times. Please, tell him that the Jewish people live and exist thanks to the Torah. Those who learn Torah are the protectors, and their status must be maintained and their value sanctified, the Rosh Yeshivah said. It is important for me to tell the ambassador that the community of Torah and mitzvah observers here in the Holy Land is in a difficult situation these days, as the judicial system is issuing arrest warrants against yeshiva students for the crime of studying Torah. Huckabee replied, I do understand that as important as it is to have soldiers, you must also have scholarsscholars who remind you who you are, why youre hereand soldiers to protect and keep what G-d has given. After Rav Dovid Hofstedter, the Nasi of Dirshu, translated the ambassadors words, the Rosh Yeshivah said: Halavai more Jews dont understand that. Your browser does not support the video tag. The Rosh Yeshivah also asked to convey his gratitude to US President Donald Trump for standing by Israel: A blessing to the malchus shel chessed, to President Trump and the Ambassador for their behavior that was for the sake of justice and truth, to bring peace to the world. They uphold justice and goodness in the world. A source close to the ambassador said that he listened to the remarks with great respect, showed great interest in the Chareidi sector and the uniqueness of the Olam HaTorah, and even asked a number of questions on the subject. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Recent anti-Israel and antisemitic incidents in Greece, including a pro-Hamas protest near an Israeli cruise ship in Syros and attacks on Israeli teens in Rhodes, have spurred a significant response from the Greek government. Yisrael Hayom reported that Greek Ambassador to Israel Maya Solomon mobilized her entire embassy team on Tuesday to address the crisis and sent official apologies to the Mano Maritime company and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis told Yisrael Hayom, The incident in Piraeus is horrific; antisemitism and every form of fascism and racism will not be tolerated in Greece. I believe what occurred in Syros is horrific. No other words can describe it. Nevertheless, I must characterize this as a unique and isolated event, as a Greek government representative. Authorities must take every action to prevent repetition in any future instance. Yisrael Hayom: However, considerable numbers of Greeks on social networks expressed support for these actions. Regrettably, certain vocal minorities create confusion. Demonstrating or protesting about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is one matternaturally permittedand something about which the Greek government was first to express humanitarian and clear positions. Quite different is when democratic protest transforms into a demonstration, which, in my view, possesses fascist characteristics. When you target people based on their origin, nationality, or religion, you establish a fear regime. The ship captains decision not to allow the passengers to disembark in Syros created an atmosphere of fear. Anti-racism legislation exists, and authoritieswhether police, as circumstances require, the coast guard, or bothmust implement this law. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) My dishwasher is linked up to the internet, and I allowed it to monitor my usage and automatically reorder Finish dishwasher tablets when I was down to my last ten. The dishwasher is connected to the Finish app on my phone. However, when I ran low on tablets, the app ordered me a new delivery on four consecutive days. I only found this out when packets kept turning up on my doorstep. I now have about three years supply for which I was automatically billed 45. I have complained, but two months on Ive got nowhere. J.C., Ware, Herts. Rinsed: A reader's smart dishwasher ordered new packages of tablets on four consecutive days landing them with a 45 bill Sally Hamilton replies: I was intrigued by the concept of intelligent ordering. It sounds a great way of ensuring you never run out of dishwasher tablets. Id find such a subscription service handy for other areas of domestic life such as loo rolls, though Im not sure that many toilets are linked to the internet. I do know some people who use a similar service for the re-ordering of ink for printers and there are smart fridges that prompt owners when they are running out of essentials. The service you signed up to is called SmartFinish, which, as you described, tracks dishwasher usage and automatically sends out a new pack. Ideal, if it works. Customers need to own a Wi-Fi-enabled dishwasher to take advantage of such auto-reordering. The system is matched to the customer, so if you use the dishwasher more than usual, orders will turn up more frequently. Gremlins seemingly got into the re-ordering system in your case, landing you with a pile of unwanted tabs. When you initially complained, Finish said you must have made the additional orders yourself, which you said was laughable. Why would you order three years worth of tabs over a few days? Scott Dixon of consumer service Complaints Resolver, suggests customers getting nowhere with an over delivery like yours quote section 25 of the Consumer Rights Act 2015. He says: This says the business is responsible for collecting and refunding the excess items at no cost to the customer. You asked Finish to do this but hit a brick wall. I contacted Reckitt, the consumer goods giant that owns Finish, to ask it to resolve your dishwasher tab mountain pronto. I didnt get anywhere at first so understood your frustration at the limited response to your complaint. But when I chased a couple of weeks later, it turned up the dial and soon Finish refunded your 45 and told you to keep the excess product. It said the problem was due to a technical issue with the app, which was quickly resolved. When it asked if you wanted to continue the subscription, you politely declined. Scam Watch Drivers should beware a scam email that impersonates insurance company Admiral, consumer website Which? warns. The email claims that you have been selected to win a free car emergency kit that includes tools and a hazard triangle. Scammers say to win the kit you need to answer a few questions by following the link on the email. Do not click on this link. It aims to steal your personal and financial information. Instead, report the email by forwarding it to report@phishing.gov.uk Rental car mix-up left me with 375 bill I booked a flight with EasyJet to arrive at Edinburgh on May 14, but in error reserved a rental car for pick up from Drivalia a day earlier. I realised my mistake on May 13 and phoned the firm but was advised to sort it out on arrival. When I arrived, I was issued with a second booking at a cost of 375 and received no refund for the first one. I realised later that I was charged again in the second booking for May 13. I even got charged a further 115 for a parking offence that took place on May 13, before I even got to Edinburgh. Please help. J.R., Hampshire. Sally Hamilton replies: Any holiday that involves a vehicle rental fills me with dread as the process seems designed to catch customers out, whether its the extortionate price of excess insurance at the desk, high charges for extras such as satnavs and child seats or the tricky rules around whether the fuel tank should be returned full or not. Your experience highlights the costly risk of being tardy for picking up a rental car even though you tried to correct the error in advance. We all make mistakes, and you were prepared to take it on the chin up to a point. But to be charged twice for the rental is not fair. I asked Drivalia to reconsider, emailing both its chief executive and customer services. I heard nothing back from the former, but the latter requested you complete an online complaint form. In that process you respectfully asked for a refund of the first booking and the extra day charged on the second rental. They declined, though they did refund the parking ticket and admin fee. How kind. Hitting a roadblock with Drivalia, I approached EasyJet, since you had booked the hire from a link on its website. EasyJet told me that while the site enables customers to make such bookings, these are provided by third party partners. In your case, the Drivalia deal was found through EasyJet partner CarTrawler, a platform listing various hire options. I am pleased to say CarTrawlers response was at the speed and standard I would have liked to have seen from Drivalia with no hesitation in offering you a full refund of both hire bills, a total of 446. A CarTrawler spokesman says: We were sorry to hear about J.Rs experience. We understand booking errors can have a significant impact on travel plans, and we appreciate how frustrating this experience must have been. Although the original issue resulted from a date selection error, and the charges applied were in accordance with the car rental suppliers terms, a full refund of the original hire and additional rental costs has been arranged. CarTrawler adds: We encourage all customers to carefully review the travel dates and rental terms outlined in their booking voucher. 'Should any problems arise at any stage, our dedicated customer care team is available 24/7 to support travellers before, during, or after their journey. Straight to the point I have had a policy with home repair company HomeServe since 2021 and I have never claimed on it. Now we have a badly dripping tap in our shower but it is refusing to repair it as it is in a shower. Dripping taps are covered in my policy documents. Please help. J.W., Lincolnshire. Homeserve apologises but says the policy includes a simple what is and what isnt covered image which reveals showers and shower controls are not included. You can cancel your policy at any time. *** I retired in July 2024, and my final pension contribution and salary sacrifice of around 2,268 was paid by my company to Aegon. I tried to move it to my Sipp in September but found out Aegon has received the money but it had not been credited to my account. At the end of last year it gave me 250 as an apology but it still hasnt added the missing amount to my pension. Aegon still cant say when my complaint will be dealt with even one year on. Please help. S.G., Hampshire. Aegon says the funds have now been applied to your plan and you have received a 300 goodwill gesture for the delay. *** My family and I make regular trips from Leeds to Malaga and sometimes buy food and drink on the plane. Since 2022, the payments have been card only. The menu is priced in euros so I pay with my Spanish bank account. But when I checked my bank account I was paying more than I thought, so a bottle of water cost 4.10 instead of 3.60. Whats happening? E.V., Leeds. You were charged in pounds, without your knowledge, on flights to the UK from Spain where the local currency was euros. You were subject to the airlines exchange rate and your bank would charge you to convert the pounds payment back to euros. The airline says you can choose to pay in euros. NANNING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka will join as a Special Partner Country for the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) scheduled for Sept. 17-21 in Nanning, capital city of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the expo secretariat confirmed on Wednesday. A high-level Sri Lankan government delegation led by senior diplomatic officials will attend the event. National key enterprises, including port companies and spice companies, will participate to deepen economic and trade ties with China and ASEAN. Sri Lanka will hold a national image exhibition, product display and national promotion event during the expo. Introduced at the 11th CAEXPO, the Special Partner Country mechanism invites Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member states or Belt and Road participating countries outside China and ASEAN. This makes the expo a platform to boost exchanges and create business opportunities between China, ASEAN and beyond. Sri Lanka previously held the role at the 13th CAEXPO. China-Sri Lanka cooperation currently spans infrastructure, energy, port development and other sectors, helping strengthen bilateral economic and cultural ties. Heathrow Airport faces tens of millions of pounds in costs after a substation fire forced a chaotic shutdown of Britain's busiest airport in March. The airport's chief executive Thomas Woldbye told the PA news agency Heathrow anticipates costs in the 'low tens of millions' after the temporary closure caused by a power outage led to disruption for more than 270,000 passengers. It came as Heathrow revealed its busiest ever start to the year, with a record 39.9million passengers travelling through the airport thanks to strong demand for Asia-Pacific and Middle East routes. But its half-year profits still sunk by more than a third to 203million for the six months to the end of June, as costs surged partly as a result of higher wages and national insurance contributions. Woldbye was found to be asleep with his phone on silent when the overnight decision to close the airport was taken. He said Heathrow had 'learnings' to take on board as a result of the fire. Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye was found to be asleep with his phone on silent when the overnight decision to close the airport was taken Woldbye added: 'That is one learning and that will not happen again. 'I would have liked to see my personal role play out differently. 'That said, we need to have procedures in place that ensures that this company can take the right decisions at the right time by the right people, no matter what the situation is. 'An organisation like ours has to be able to manage, whether the captain's on the bridge or not.' During an interview with BBC Radio 4 earlier in the day, Woldbye denied misjudging what it meant to be the head of one of the world's busiest airports. Heathrow now awaits a report from energy watchdog Ofgem to finalise its findings into the incident and discover whether it can claim compensation from National Grid Electricity Transmission. Ofgem has launched an official enforcement investigation into NGET after a report found the fire was the result of a preventable technical fault. The report by the National Energy System Operator (Neso) said 'elevated moisture reading' found in oil samples at the North Hyde substation in west London in July 2018 was not rectified with replacement electrical insulators known as bushings. It also comes as Heathrow plots a major expansion, including plans for a third runway, to increase its capacity and maintain its status as a global hub. Woldbye told investors on Wednesday Heathrow is still 'delivering on our vision to become an extraordinary airport, fit for the future'. He added: 'Our new five-year investment plan will mean faster, more reliable journeys, more on-time flights and unlock room to grow - all while delivering better value for customers. 'We will soon submit our long-term expansion plans to the Government, providing the UK with the opportunity to stay competitive, boost jobs and drive nationwide growth. Heathrow has an exciting future ahead and we are ready to get going.' Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO Get Free Report) is anticipated to issue its Q2 2025 quarterly earnings data before the market opens on Thursday, July 24th. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of $1.66 per share and revenue of $27.00 billion for the quarter. Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The oil and gas company reported $0.89 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.16 by ($0.27). The business had revenue of $28.76 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $28.54 billion. Valero Energy had a return on equity of 6.30% and a net margin of 0.72%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $3.82 EPS. On average, analysts expect Valero Energy to post $8 EPS for the current fiscal year and $10 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Valero Energy alerts: Valero Energy Trading Down 0.7% Shares of VLO opened at $145.21 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $136.65 and its 200 day simple moving average is $130.18. The company has a current ratio of 1.56, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. Valero Energy has a twelve month low of $99.00 and a twelve month high of $167.78. The firm has a market capitalization of $45.48 billion, a P/E ratio of 51.31, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.55 and a beta of 1.00. Valero Energy Dividend Announcement Institutional Investors Weigh In On Valero Energy The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 31st will be paid a dividend of $1.13 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 31st. This represents a $4.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.11%. Valero Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 159.72%. A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Valero Energy stock. Woodline Partners LP grew its stake in shares of Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO Free Report) by 40.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 26,747 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after acquiring an additional 7,735 shares during the period. Woodline Partners LPs holdings in Valero Energy were worth $3,532,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.69% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts recently commented on the company. The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded Valero Energy from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $127.00 to $154.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Wolfe Research downgraded Valero Energy from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Monday, July 14th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Valero Energy from $145.00 to $160.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 16th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on Valero Energy from $152.00 to $147.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, April 28th. Finally, Scotiabank decreased their target price on Valero Energy from $156.00 to $136.00 and set a sector outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have issued a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Valero Energy presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $153.80. View Our Latest Research Report on Valero Energy About Valero Energy (Get Free Report) Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Valero Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Valero Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE:ABG Free Report) Equities researchers at Seaport Res Ptn lowered their Q3 2025 EPS estimates for Asbury Automotive Group in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday, July 16th. Seaport Res Ptn analyst G. Chin now forecasts that the company will earn $6.38 per share for the quarter, down from their prior estimate of $6.92. The consensus estimate for Asbury Automotive Groups current full-year earnings is $26.28 per share. Seaport Res Ptn also issued estimates for Asbury Automotive Groups FY2025 earnings at $26.99 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $25.30 EPS. Get Asbury Automotive Group alerts: Several other equities research analysts have also recently weighed in on ABG. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut shares of Asbury Automotive Group from a neutral rating to an underweight rating and reduced their target price for the company from $235.00 to $225.00 in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Asbury Automotive Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday, May 12th. Bank of America boosted their price target on Asbury Automotive Group from $325.00 to $335.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, June 16th. Finally, Citigroup started coverage on Asbury Automotive Group in a research note on Wednesday, April 23rd. They issued a neutral rating and a $236.00 price target on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Asbury Automotive Group has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $259.33. Asbury Automotive Group Stock Up 1.1% ABG stock opened at $234.27 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 1.25 and a quick ratio of 0.55. Asbury Automotive Group has a 52-week low of $201.68 and a 52-week high of $312.56. The company has a 50-day moving average of $239.52 and a two-hundred day moving average of $244.97. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.61 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.15, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.50 and a beta of 0.96. Asbury Automotive Group (NYSE:ABG Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, April 29th. The company reported $6.82 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $6.84 by ($0.02). Asbury Automotive Group had a return on equity of 15.41% and a net margin of 2.42%. The business had revenue of $4.15 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.31 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $7.21 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 1.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Asbury Automotive Group A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in ABG. State of Alaska Department of Revenue lifted its position in Asbury Automotive Group by 7.7% in the 2nd quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 11,690 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,787,000 after acquiring an additional 837 shares in the last quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. acquired a new position in shares of Asbury Automotive Group during the 2nd quarter worth about $661,000. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. increased its stake in shares of Asbury Automotive Group by 30.3% during the 2nd quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 5,597 shares of the companys stock worth $1,335,000 after purchasing an additional 1,302 shares during the last quarter. eCIO Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Asbury Automotive Group during the 1st quarter worth about $56,000. Finally, Strs Ohio bought a new stake in shares of Asbury Automotive Group during the 1st quarter worth about $795,000. About Asbury Automotive Group (Get Free Report) Asbury Automotive Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an automotive retailer in the United States. It offers a range of automotive products and services, including new and used vehicles; and vehicle repair and maintenance services, replacement parts, and collision repair services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Asbury Automotive Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Asbury Automotive Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tri Pointe Homes (NYSE:TPH Get Free Report) will likely be posting its Q2 2025 quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Thursday, July 24th. Analysts expect Tri Pointe Homes to post earnings of $0.66 per share and revenue of $810.77 million for the quarter. Tri Pointe Homes (NYSE:TPH Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 24th. The construction company reported $0.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.45 by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $720.79 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $713.65 million. Tri Pointe Homes had a return on equity of 12.97% and a net margin of 10.02%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 21.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.03 EPS. On average, analysts expect Tri Pointe Homes to post $4 EPS for the current fiscal year and $3 EPS for the next fiscal year. Get Tri Pointe Homes alerts: Tri Pointe Homes Stock Performance Shares of Tri Pointe Homes stock opened at $35.36 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $3.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.86 and a beta of 1.25. The stocks 50-day moving average is $31.50 and its 200-day moving average is $32.44. Tri Pointe Homes has a one year low of $27.90 and a one year high of $47.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.28, a current ratio of 1.97 and a quick ratio of 1.97. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, Wedbush upgraded shares of Tri Pointe Homes from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and raised their target price for the company from $38.00 to $43.00 in a research note on Monday, April 28th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Tri Pointe Homes has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $41.60. Get Our Latest Report on TPH Insider Buying and Selling at Tri Pointe Homes In related news, CEO Douglas F. Bauer sold 120,287 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.15, for a total value of $3,626,653.05. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 627,833 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $18,929,164.95. This trade represents a 16.08% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 2.70% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Tri Pointe Homes A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Tri Pointe Homes stock. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Tri Pointe Homes Inc. (NYSE:TPH Free Report) by 4.6% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 54,879 shares of the construction companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,398 shares during the period. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. owned approximately 0.06% of Tri Pointe Homes worth $1,752,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 97.01% of the companys stock. Tri Pointe Homes Company Profile (Get Free Report) Tri Pointe Homes, Inc engages in the design, construction, and sale of single-family attached and detached homes in the United States. The company operates through a portfolio of six regional home building brands comprising Maracay in Arizona; Pardee Homes in California and Nevada; Quadrant Homes in Washington; Trendmaker Homes in Texas; TRI Pointe Homes in California, Colorado, and the Carolinas; and Winchester Homes in Maryland and Northern Virginia. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Tri Pointe Homes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tri Pointe Homes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich cut its position in Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report) by 2.1% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 85,847 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 1,885 shares during the period. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurichs holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies were worth $20,949,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Parisi Gray Wealth Management bought a new stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies during the first quarter valued at approximately $947,000. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC boosted its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 101.7% in the first quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 103,551 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,270,000 after purchasing an additional 52,218 shares during the period. Penserra Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 101.4% in the first quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 7,136 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,741,000 after purchasing an additional 3,593 shares during the period. US Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 23.1% in the first quarter. US Asset Management LLC now owns 6,847 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,671,000 after purchasing an additional 1,284 shares during the period. Finally, Annex Advisory Services LLC boosted its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 2.1% in the first quarter. Annex Advisory Services LLC now owns 63,300 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $15,447,000 after purchasing an additional 1,288 shares during the period. 87.99% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Marsh & McLennan Companies alerts: Marsh & McLennan Companies Stock Performance Shares of NYSE MMC opened at $210.39 on Wednesday. The firms fifty day moving average is $221.16 and its two-hundred day moving average is $224.82. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. has a 52-week low of $207.21 and a 52-week high of $248.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.19, a quick ratio of 1.20 and a current ratio of 1.20. The company has a market cap of $103.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.23, a P/E/G ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 0.80. Marsh & McLennan Companies Increases Dividend Marsh & McLennan Companies ( NYSE:MMC Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The financial services provider reported $2.72 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.66 by $0.06. Marsh & McLennan Companies had a net margin of 16.00% and a return on equity of 31.90%. The firm had revenue of $6.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.92 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.41 EPS. The companys revenue was up 12.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. will post 9.61 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 24th will be given a dividend of $0.90 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 24th. This is a boost from Marsh & McLennan Companiess previous quarterly dividend of $0.82. This represents a $3.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.71%. Marsh & McLennan Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 39.09%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms recently issued reports on MMC. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price target on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $237.00 to $244.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Barclays reduced their target price on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $249.00 to $233.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, July 7th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $214.00 to $210.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday. UBS Group reduced their target price on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $261.00 to $258.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Monday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $229.00 to $226.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, July 18th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $239.79. Read Our Latest Report on Marsh & McLennan Companies Marsh & McLennan Companies Profile (Free Report) Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc is a professional services firm, which engages in offering clients advice and solutions in risk, strategy, and people. It operates through the Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting segments. The Risk and Insurance Services segment is involved in risk management activities, as well as insurance and reinsurance broking and services. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MMC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MCF Advisors LLC lessened its position in shares of Parker-Hannifin Corporation (NYSE:PH Free Report) by 16.3% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 118 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 23 shares during the period. MCF Advisors LLCs holdings in Parker-Hannifin were worth $72,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. First Manhattan CO. LLC. boosted its position in Parker-Hannifin by 1.0% during the 4th quarter. First Manhattan CO. LLC. now owns 1,580 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,005,000 after purchasing an additional 15 shares during the period. Becker Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in Parker-Hannifin by 3.4% during the 4th quarter. Becker Capital Management Inc. now owns 482 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $307,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares during the period. Citizens National Bank Trust Department boosted its position in Parker-Hannifin by 8.5% during the 1st quarter. Citizens National Bank Trust Department now owns 217 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $132,000 after purchasing an additional 17 shares during the period. Sunbelt Securities Inc. boosted its position in Parker-Hannifin by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 1,175 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $714,000 after purchasing an additional 18 shares during the period. Finally, Ellevest Inc. boosted its position in Parker-Hannifin by 5.7% during the 4th quarter. Ellevest Inc. now owns 351 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $223,000 after purchasing an additional 19 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 82.44% of the companys stock. Get Parker-Hannifin alerts: Insider Activity In related news, VP Jay Reidy sold 150 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $620.37, for a total transaction of $93,055.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president owned 2,083 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,292,230.71. The trade was a 6.72% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.39% of the companys stock. Parker-Hannifin Stock Performance Shares of PH stock opened at $721.81 on Wednesday. Parker-Hannifin Corporation has a 1-year low of $488.45 and a 1-year high of $727.30. The company has a current ratio of 1.21, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55. The company has a market capitalization of $92.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.79, a P/E/G ratio of 3.06 and a beta of 1.34. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $680.98 and its 200-day simple moving average is $648.72. Parker-Hannifin (NYSE:PH Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 1st. The industrial products company reported $6.94 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.72 by $0.22. The firm had revenue of $4.96 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.99 billion. Parker-Hannifin had a return on equity of 26.80% and a net margin of 17.14%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $6.51 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Parker-Hannifin Corporation will post 26.71 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Parker-Hannifin Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 6th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 9th were paid a dividend of $1.80 per share. This represents a $7.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.00%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 9th. This is an increase from Parker-Hannifins previous quarterly dividend of $1.63. Parker-Hannifins dividend payout ratio is 27.72%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have issued reports on the company. Truist Financial reduced their price target on Parker-Hannifin from $842.00 to $717.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 8th. Evercore ISI boosted their price target on Parker-Hannifin from $824.00 to $827.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, May 19th. Argus set a $680.00 price target on Parker-Hannifin in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating and set a $831.00 price target (up previously from $709.00) on shares of Parker-Hannifin in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, KeyCorp boosted their price target on Parker-Hannifin from $735.00 to $790.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 15th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $739.59. Get Our Latest Report on PH Parker-Hannifin Company Profile (Free Report) Parker-Hannifin Corporation manufactures and sells motion and control technologies and systems for various mobile, industrial, and aerospace markets worldwide. The company operates through two segments: Diversified Industrial and Aerospace Systems. The Diversified Industrial segment offers sealing, shielding, thermal products and systems, adhesives, coatings, and noise vibration and harshness solutions; filters, systems, and diagnostics solutions to ensure purity and remove contaminants from fuel, air, oil, water, and other liquids and gases; connectors used in fluid and gas handling; and hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical components and systems for builders and users of mobile and industrial machinery and equipment. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Parker-Hannifin Corporation (NYSE:PH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Parker-Hannifin Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Parker-Hannifin and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS raised its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Free Report) by 3.5% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 85,710 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 2,900 shares during the quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning ASs holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. were worth $29,591,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in AJG. HWG Holdings LP acquired a new stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in the 1st quarter valued at about $25,000. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC raised its stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 81.7% during the 4th quarter. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC now owns 109 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 49 shares during the last quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. raised its stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 205.4% during the 4th quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. now owns 113 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 76 shares during the last quarter. Parvin Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Finally, Centennial Bank AR purchased a new stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $38,000. 85.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. news, Director David S. Johnson sold 1,000 shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $342.04, for a total value of $342,040.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 45,323 shares in the company, valued at $15,502,278.92. The trade was a 2.16% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, insider Susan E. Pietrucha sold 13,500 shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $344.13, for a total value of $4,645,755.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 11,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,109,256.33. The trade was a 53.06% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders sold 25,000 shares of company stock worth $8,528,080. Corporate insiders own 1.30% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes AJG has been the subject of several analyst reports. Barclays reduced their price objective on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $346.00 to $327.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 7th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $372.00 to $371.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, June 9th. Jefferies Financial Group cut their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $266.00 to $265.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 11th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $326.00 to $330.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Finally, Redburn Atlantic initiated coverage on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research note on Tuesday, March 25th. They set a neutral rating and a $352.00 target price for the company. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $318.21. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on AJG Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Price Performance AJG stock opened at $312.86 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.44, a current ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56. The stock has a market capitalization of $80.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 45.28 and a beta of 0.71. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $325.18 and its 200-day simple moving average is $321.95. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a 52-week low of $267.00 and a 52-week high of $351.23. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The financial services provider reported $3.67 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.57 by $0.10. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a return on equity of 14.83% and a net margin of 14.39%. The company had revenue of $3.69 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.85 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $3.45 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 14.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts expect that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 11.54 EPS for the current year. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 20th. Investors of record on Friday, June 6th were paid a $0.65 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, June 6th. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.83%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 37.63%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Company Profile (Free Report) Arthur J. Gallagher & Co engages in the provision of insurance brokerage, reinsurance brokerage, consulting, and third-party claims settlement and administration services. It operates through the following segments: Brokerage, Risk Management, and Corporate. The Brokerage segment consists of retail and wholesale insurance brokerage operations. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AJG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Gallacher Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST Free Report) during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm purchased 1,758 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $207,000. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the business. Peregrine Asset Advisers Inc. grew its stake in Vistra by 564.8% in the 1st quarter. Peregrine Asset Advisers Inc. now owns 13,721 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,611,000 after buying an additional 11,657 shares during the last quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC grew its stake in Vistra by 33.9% in the 1st quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 2,289 shares of the companys stock valued at $269,000 after buying an additional 579 shares during the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its stake in Vistra by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 26,191 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,076,000 after buying an additional 961 shares during the last quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Vistra by 8.6% in the 1st quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 8,219 shares of the companys stock valued at $965,000 after purchasing an additional 649 shares during the period. Finally, Mariner Investment Group LLC bought a new stake in Vistra in the 1st quarter valued at $5,167,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.88% of the companys stock. Get Vistra alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes VST has been the subject of a number of research reports. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on shares of Vistra from $178.00 to $186.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, June 18th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on shares of Vistra from $134.00 to $164.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on shares of Vistra in a research note on Friday, June 13th. They issued a strong-buy rating and a $216.00 target price on the stock. Evercore ISI set a $192.00 target price on shares of Vistra and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, May 15th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of Vistra from $203.00 to $186.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, March 28th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $176.92. Insiders Place Their Bets In other Vistra news, Director John R. Sult sold 25,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, June 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $171.67, for a total value of $4,291,750.00. Following the sale, the director directly owned 75,946 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,037,649.82. This trade represents a 24.77% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Scott B. Helm sold 50,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $172.75, for a total transaction of $8,637,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 255,192 shares in the company, valued at approximately $44,084,418. This trade represents a 16.38% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 294,000 shares of company stock valued at $47,461,490 over the last three months. 1.42% of the stock is owned by insiders. Vistra Price Performance Shares of VST stock opened at $188.99 on Wednesday. The firms 50 day moving average is $177.01 and its 200-day moving average is $153.15. Vistra Corp. has a 1 year low of $66.50 and a 1 year high of $200.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $64.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.72, a PEG ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 1.26. The company has a current ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.53. Vistra Increases Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Investors of record on Wednesday, June 18th were issued a $0.225 dividend. This is a positive change from Vistras previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.48%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, June 18th. Vistras dividend payout ratio is currently 14.15%. Vistra Profile (Free Report) Vistra Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates through six segments: Retail, Texas, East, West, Sunset, and Asset Closure. It retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across states in the United States and the District of Columbia. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VST? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Vistra Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vistra and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd lifted its position in Truist Financial Corporation (NYSE:TFC Free Report) by 421.9% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 56,502 shares of the insurance providers stock after purchasing an additional 45,676 shares during the period. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltds holdings in Truist Financial were worth $2,325,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Comerica Bank boosted its holdings in shares of Truist Financial by 3.6% during the 4th quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 449,484 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $19,499,000 after buying an additional 15,499 shares in the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec raised its position in Truist Financial by 81.7% in the 4th quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 1,108,466 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $48,085,000 after buying an additional 498,531 shares during the last quarter. Code Waechter LLC purchased a new position in Truist Financial in the 1st quarter worth about $365,000. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisors L.P. raised its position in Truist Financial by 4.6% in the 1st quarter. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisors L.P. now owns 435,650 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $17,927,000 after buying an additional 19,286 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stifel Financial Corp grew its stake in shares of Truist Financial by 2.8% during the 4th quarter. Stifel Financial Corp now owns 2,242,763 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $97,291,000 after purchasing an additional 60,848 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 71.28% of the companys stock. Get Truist Financial alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded Truist Financial from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 7th. Stephens decreased their price objective on Truist Financial from $48.00 to $46.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, April 21st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered Truist Financial from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $48.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Wednesday, July 9th. Argus set a $43.00 target price on Truist Financial in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Finally, Piper Sandler reduced their target price on Truist Financial from $45.00 to $41.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 21st. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Truist Financial presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $48.72. Truist Financial Stock Up 1.1% Shares of TFC stock opened at $45.23 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $41.67 and a 200 day moving average of $42.04. The company has a current ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.75. The stock has a market cap of $59.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.32, a P/E/G ratio of 1.61 and a beta of 0.85. Truist Financial Corporation has a twelve month low of $33.56 and a twelve month high of $49.06. Truist Financial (NYSE:TFC Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 18th. The insurance provider reported $0.91 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.93 by ($0.02). Truist Financial had a net margin of 16.82% and a return on equity of 8.69%. The business had revenue of $5.04 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.04 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.91 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down 406.0% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Truist Financial Corporation will post 4 EPS for the current year. Truist Financial Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 9th were paid a dividend of $0.52 per share. This represents a $2.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.60%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 9th. Truist Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 56.68%. Truist Financial Profile (Free Report) Truist Financial Corporation, a financial services company, provides banking and trust services in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States. The company operates through three segments: Consumer Banking and Wealth, Corporate and Commercial Banking, and Insurance Holdings.Its deposit products include noninterest-bearing checking, interest-bearing checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Truist Financial Corporation (NYSE:TFC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Truist Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Truist Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Big Rock Brewery and its competitors revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Big Rock Brewery $31.65 million -$9.83 million -0.71 Big Rock Brewery Competitors $9.52 billion $869.03 million 23.37 Big Rock Brewerys competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Big Rock Brewery. Big Rock Brewery is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Get Big Rock Brewery alerts: Risk and Volatility Big Rock Brewery has a beta of -0.63, suggesting that its share price is 163% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Big Rock Brewerys competitors have a beta of 1.58, suggesting that their average share price is 58% more volatile than the S&P 500. Profitability Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Big Rock Brewery -22.59% -56.74% -22.61% Big Rock Brewery Competitors 4.89% 7.40% 4.06% Institutional & Insider Ownership This table compares Big Rock Brewery and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets. 37.9% of shares of all BEVERAGES ALCOH companies are owned by institutional investors. 38.4% of Big Rock Brewery shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 14.0% of shares of all BEVERAGES ALCOH companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Summary Big Rock Brewery competitors beat Big Rock Brewery on 8 of the 9 factors compared. About Big Rock Brewery (Get Free Report) Big Rock Brewery Inc. produces, markets, and distributes craft beers, ciders, and ready-to-drink beverages primarily in Canada. The company offers a selection of beer, ciders, and ready-to-drink beverages under the Big Rock, Tree Brewing, Rock Creek Cider, Dukes Cider, AGD, Shaftbury, Bow Valley, White Peaks, and Cottage Springs brands. It also provides apparel and accessories, including jackets, headwear, sweaters, glassware, belt buckles, and coolers. The company sells its products to provincial liquor boards, grocery stores, on-premise and contract manufacturing customers; and through premises owned and/or operated by the Corporation, Big Rock's retail location and online through various e-commerce platforms. website, and third-party delivery services. Big Rock Brewery Inc. was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Receive News & Ratings for Big Rock Brewery Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Big Rock Brewery and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- China is strengthening oversight of what it describes as involution-style competition, aiming to foster a market that rewards quality and innovation while promoting healthier, more sustainable industrial development. Authorities have recently taken steps to regulate the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector and food delivery platforms, where aggressive price wars dominated the market. An array of measures from product pricing monitoring to quality inspections were announced at a meeting on market competition of the NEV sector held by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). Meanwhile, the SAMR has urged three major players in the food delivery market to revise their promotional activities and adopt a rational approach to competition. This follows a fierce discount competition where platforms attracted customers with massive and unsustainable "free meal" subsidies. These moves reflect the country's broader campaign to address "involution," a concept gaining traction in recent years to describe cutthroat competition, where companies, vying for market share, engage in aggressive price cuts but only get trapped in a cycle of diminishing returns. The 2025 government work report released in March vowed to "take comprehensive steps to address rat race competition." The focus was cemented at a meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs on July 1, as policymakers pledged to tackle disorderly low-price competition, guide enterprises to improve product quality, and facilitate the orderly exit of outdated production capacities. Unlike healthy competition that drives innovation and efficiency, involution leads to nowhere and erodes industry health, analysts said. Mao Zhenhua, an economics professor of Renmin University of China, said such vicious competition is doing real damage to domestic industries. "It has driven down commodity prices, squeezing corporate profits and ultimately depressing household wages and consumption power." In the NEV sector for instance, manufacturers have been engaged in relentless price undercutting in an effort to prop up sales, resulting in declining profitability and stoking concerns about deteriorating quality. In early 2025, over 60 car models slashed prices in China. Industry-wide net margins fell to 4.3 percent last year, according to the China Automobile Dealers Association. The race to the bottom also strained supply chains, said Liu Zhibiao, an economist at Nanjing University. As downstream industry giants wage price wars, they often push costs and risks upstream, such as delaying payments to parts suppliers or forcing last-minute price cuts -- practices that imperil small and medium-sized enterprises. China's parts and components industry, taking the major brunt of the clash of titans, saw its profit margin decline by 0.3 percentage points year on year in 2024, with liabilities up by 10.6 percent. More importantly, analysts warned that the involution-triggered profit slip will lead to trimmed R&D budgets, sacrificing the long-term development potential not just for individual companies, but for the entire sector as a whole. "If R&D is like building internal strength, then a price war drains that strength. If you cut R&D spending just to win a price war, you might gain the market today but lose the future," said Wang Xia, head of the automotive sub-council of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. China's anti-involution campaign has won broad industry backing. Many automakers have pulled out of the pricing battle and promised to cap supplier payment terms at 60 days. The national cement business group rolled out anti-cutthroat competition guidelines, and 33 construction enterprises jointly launched an industry-wide pledge to reject involution. The long-term influence could be transformative. With benign competition back on track, a healthier business environment will emerge, driving innovation and facilitating industrial upgrading. By moving away from price wars and toward value-based competition, companies can focus more on enhancing innovation and improving product quality, according to a report by China International Capital Corporation, a leading investment bank, noting that this shift will ensure businesses continuously climb the technological value chain. Tackling involution in essence is addressing growing pains in economic restructuring, analysts said, stressing that by doing so, China will be able to accelerate building a unified national market, foster policy and market ecosystems conducive to new quality productive forces, and cultivate new, sustainable growth drivers. Moelis & Company (NYSE:MC Get Free Report) and Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, analyst recommendations, dividends, institutional ownership, valuation, risk and profitability. Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for Moelis & Company and Wells Fargo & Company, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Get Moelis & Company alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Moelis & Company 1 4 2 0 2.14 Wells Fargo & Company 0 8 11 0 2.58 Moelis & Company currently has a consensus price target of $66.00, indicating a potential downside of 6.44%. Wells Fargo & Company has a consensus price target of $80.39, indicating a potential downside of 2.50%. Given Wells Fargo & Companys stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Wells Fargo & Company is more favorable than Moelis & Company. Volatility and Risk Dividends Moelis & Company has a beta of 1.64, suggesting that its stock price is 64% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Wells Fargo & Company has a beta of 1.16, suggesting that its stock price is 16% more volatile than the S&P 500. Moelis & Company pays an annual dividend of $2.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.7%. Wells Fargo & Company pays an annual dividend of $1.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.9%. Moelis & Company pays out 119.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Wells Fargo & Company pays out 27.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Moelis & Company has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years and Wells Fargo & Company has increased its dividend for 4 consecutive years. Insider & Institutional Ownership 91.5% of Moelis & Company shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 75.9% of Wells Fargo & Company shares are held by institutional investors. 6.4% of Moelis & Company shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 0.1% of Wells Fargo & Company shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Profitability This table compares Moelis & Company and Wells Fargo & Companys net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Moelis & Company 13.22% 40.89% 15.58% Wells Fargo & Company 16.82% 12.29% 1.04% Valuation and Earnings This table compares Moelis & Company and Wells Fargo & Companys gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Moelis & Company $1.19 billion 4.64 $136.02 million $2.18 32.36 Wells Fargo & Company $125.40 billion 2.14 $19.72 billion $5.84 14.12 Wells Fargo & Company has higher revenue and earnings than Moelis & Company. Wells Fargo & Company is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Moelis & Company, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Summary Wells Fargo & Company beats Moelis & Company on 9 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks. About Moelis & Company (Get Free Report) Moelis & Co. operates as a holding company. It engages in the provision of financial advisory, capital raising and asset management services to a client base including corporations, governments, sovereign wealth funds and financial sponsors. The firm focuses on clients including large public multinational corporations, middle market private companies, financial sponsors, entrepreneurs and governments. The company was founded by Kenneth David Moelis, Navid Mahmoodzadegan, Jeffrey Raich and Elizabeth Ann Crain in July 2007 and is headquartered in New York, NY. About Wells Fargo & Company (Get Free Report) Wells Fargo & Co. is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management. The Consumer Banking and Lending segment offers consumer and small business banking, home lending, credit cards, auto, and personal lending. The Commercial Banking segment provides banking and credit products across industry sectors and municipalities, secured lending and lease products, and treasury management. The Corporate and Investment Banking segment is composed of corporate banking, investment banking, treasury management, commercial real estate lending and servicing, and equity and fixed income solutions, as well as sales, trading, and research capabilities. The Wealth and Investment Management segment refers to personalized wealth management, brokerage, financial planning, lending, private banking, trust, and fiduciary products and services. The company was founded by Henry Wells and William G. Fargo on March 18, 1852 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA. Receive News & Ratings for Moelis & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Moelis & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Next Capital Management LLC raised its stake in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IWD Free Report) by 2.4% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 20,579 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 474 shares during the period. iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF makes up 1.9% of Next Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 14th biggest holding. Next Capital Management LLCs holdings in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF were worth $3,872,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Accredited Investors Inc. increased its position in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. now owns 14,847 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,794,000 after purchasing an additional 643 shares during the last quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 23.8% in the 1st quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd now owns 1,958 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $368,000 after buying an additional 377 shares during the period. Choreo LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 400,743 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $75,403,000 after buying an additional 12,243 shares during the period. Obermeyer Wealth Partners boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 5.7% in the 1st quarter. Obermeyer Wealth Partners now owns 2,966 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $558,000 after buying an additional 160 shares during the period. Finally, Arcadia Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $8,669,000. Institutional investors own 84.93% of the companys stock. Get iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF alerts: iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF Stock Performance NYSEARCA IWD opened at $197.50 on Wednesday. iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF has a one year low of $163.19 and a one year high of $200.42. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $191.59 and a 200-day simple moving average of $188.39. The firm has a market capitalization of $63.03 billion, a PE ratio of 18.83 and a beta of 0.95. About iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the large capitalization value sector of the U.S. equity market, as represented by the Russell 1000 Value Index (the Index). Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IWD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IWD Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bank of New York Mellon, Quanta Services, Southern, Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras, and Rockwell Automation are the five Renewable Energy stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Renewable energy stocks are shares of companies involved in generating power from sustainable sources such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal systems. Investors buy these equities to gain exposure to the growth potential of clean-energy technologies and to support the transition away from fossil fuels. Because they can be influenced by policy incentives and technological advances, renewable energy stocks often exhibit unique risk and return profiles compared to traditional energy companies. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Renewable Energy stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Bank of New York Mellon (BK) The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics. Shares of NYSE:BK traded up $0.89 on Friday, reaching $98.81. 5,658,224 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,133,435. The firm has a market capitalization of $70.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.09, a PEG ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 1.07. Bank of New York Mellon has a fifty-two week low of $60.93 and a fifty-two week high of $99.04. The businesss 50-day moving average is $90.84 and its two-hundred day moving average is $85.28. The company has a quick ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86. Read Our Latest Research Report on BK Quanta Services (PWR) Quanta Services, Inc. provides infrastructure solutions for the electric and gas utility, renewable energy, communications, and pipeline and energy industries in the United States, Canada, Australia, and internationally. The companys Electric Power Infrastructure Solutions segment engages in the design, procurement, construction, upgrade, repair, and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities; installation, maintenance, and upgrade of electric power infrastructure projects; installation of smart grid technologies on electric power networks; and design, installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial and industrial wirings. Shares of PWR stock traded up $5.63 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $403.53. The stock had a trading volume of 1,060,076 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,095,293. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 1.31 and a quick ratio of 1.26. Quanta Services has a twelve month low of $227.08 and a twelve month high of $405.43. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $362.17 and a 200-day simple moving average of $312.87. The firm has a market capitalization of $59.83 billion, a PE ratio of 65.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.14 and a beta of 1.08. Read Our Latest Research Report on PWR Southern (SO) The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations. Shares of SO stock traded up $0.77 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $94.10. The stock had a trading volume of 4,197,840 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,747,839. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69, a current ratio of 0.86 and a quick ratio of 0.65. Southern has a twelve month low of $80.46 and a twelve month high of $94.63. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $90.04 and a 200-day simple moving average of $88.55. The firm has a market capitalization of $103.42 billion, a PE ratio of 22.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.25 and a beta of 0.38. Read Our Latest Research Report on SO Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (PBR) Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. Petrobras explores, produces, and sells oil and gas in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Exploration and Production; Refining, Transportation and Marketing; and Gas and Power. The Exploration and Production segment explores, develops, and produces crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily for supplies to the domestic refineries. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras stock traded down $0.28 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $12.02. 28,389,987 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 18,334,528. The firm has a market cap of $77.46 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.97 and a beta of 0.85. The company has a quick ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $12.27 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $12.84. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras has a 1-year low of $11.03 and a 1-year high of $15.73. Read Our Latest Research Report on PBR Rockwell Automation (ROK) Rockwell Automation, Inc. provides industrial automation and digital transformation solutions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through three segments, Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its solutions include hardware and software products and services. Shares of ROK traded down $0.49 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $356.00. The companys stock had a trading volume of 681,638 shares, compared to its average volume of 864,964. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 0.72. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $324.82 and a 200 day moving average price of $287.28. Rockwell Automation has a fifty-two week low of $215.00 and a fifty-two week high of $359.16. The stock has a market capitalization of $40.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.84, a PEG ratio of 3.63 and a beta of 1.38. Read Our Latest Research Report on ROK Featured Stories Delaney Dennis R lowered its position in shares of Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI Free Report) (TSE:CNR) by 2.6% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 50,207 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 1,328 shares during the quarter. Canadian National Railway comprises approximately 2.7% of Delaney Dennis Rs portfolio, making the stock its 18th biggest position. Delaney Dennis Rs holdings in Canadian National Railway were worth $4,893,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in CNI. Virtu Financial LLC bought a new stake in Canadian National Railway in the 4th quarter worth about $470,000. American Century Companies Inc. increased its position in shares of Canadian National Railway by 6.7% during the 4th quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 147,878 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $15,017,000 after purchasing an additional 9,340 shares during the last quarter. Sei Investments Co. grew its position in Canadian National Railway by 2.0% in the 4th quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 375,801 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $38,148,000 after acquiring an additional 7,461 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in Canadian National Railway by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,986,678 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $2,334,251,000 after acquiring an additional 101,228 shares during the last quarter. Finally, CoreFirst Bank & Trust bought a new position in Canadian National Railway in the 4th quarter valued at $92,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.74% of the companys stock. Get Canadian National Railway alerts: Canadian National Railway Trading Up 0.9% Shares of NYSE:CNI opened at $100.44 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $62.92 billion, a PE ratio of 19.58, a P/E/G ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.97. Canadian National Railway Company has a 1 year low of $91.65 and a 1 year high of $122.06. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $104.62 and a 200 day moving average price of $101.67. The company has a current ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. Canadian National Railway Increases Dividend Canadian National Railway ( NYSE:CNI Get Free Report ) (TSE:CNR) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 1st. The transportation company reported $1.29 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.26 by $0.03. Canadian National Railway had a net margin of 26.19% and a return on equity of 22.29%. The business had revenue of $3.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.38 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.72 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 3.6% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that Canadian National Railway Company will post 5.52 EPS for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, June 10th were given a $0.8875 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 2.47%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 9th. This is an increase from Canadian National Railways previous dividend of $0.29. Canadian National Railways dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 50.49%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have recently issued reports on CNI. Susquehanna increased their price target on Canadian National Railway from $120.00 to $122.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 24th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Canadian National Railway from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, May 30th. Bank of America raised their price objective on Canadian National Railway from $105.00 to $115.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, May 16th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $163.00 price objective on shares of Canadian National Railway in a report on Thursday, June 5th. Finally, National Bank Financial lowered Canadian National Railway from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a research note on Wednesday. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $119.52. View Our Latest Analysis on Canadian National Railway Canadian National Railway Profile (Free Report) Canadian National Railway Company, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the rail, intermodal, trucking, and marine transportation and logistics business in Canada and the United States. The company provides rail services, which include equipment, custom brokerage services, transloading and distribution, business development and real estate, and private car storage services; and intermodal services, such as temperature controlled cargo, port partnerships, and logistics parks. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CNI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI Free Report) (TSE:CNR). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian National Railway Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian National Railway and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. WASHINGTON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the United States has reached a trade deal with Japan, which will impose a 15 percent tariff on Japanese goods. Japan will invest 550 billion U.S. dollars into the United States, which will receive 90 percent of the profits, said Trump, adding that the deal will create hundreds of thousands of jobs. "Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15 percent," said Trump in a post on social media. In a recent letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Trump threatened to raise the so-called reciprocal tariff on Japan to 25 percent starting Aug. 1, higher than the 24 percent tariff announced on April 2. As one of the major U.S. trading partners, Japan has been tough in bilateral trade talks. The United States saw 68.5 billion dollars of trade deficit in goods with Japan in 2024, with imports from Japan totalling 148.2 billion dollars and exports to Japan at 79.7 billion dollars, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Trump also announced a trade deal with the Philippines after meeting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier Tuesday. Still, the White House hasn't released details on U.S. trade deals with the Philippines and Japan. On Tuesday, the White House unveiled more details about the U.S. trade deal with Indonesia, which was announced on July 15. Indonesia will eliminate approximately 99 percent of tariff barriers for a full range of U.S. industrial, food and agricultural products exported to Indonesia, while the United States will impose a 19 percent tariff on products imported from Indonesia, said a release by the White House. Indonesia will remove restrictions on exports to the United States of industrial commodities, including critical minerals, it said. Trump has signed an executive order earlier this month to extend the 90-day suspension of sweeping U.S. reciprocal tariffs from July 9 to Aug. 1, with trade negotiations ongoing with the European Union and other major trading partners. CCTV: A recent report released by the U.S.-China Business Council shows that 82 percent of U.S. companies in China reported profit. Many say uncertainties in China-U.S. relations and tariffs are their top concerns but the Chinese market remains vital. Can I have your comment on that? Guo Jiakun: Investing in China for a win-win future has become a prevailing consensus among global investors. As of March 2025, there are 1.24 million foreign-funded companies established in China, with a total investment volume of nearly US$3 trillion. While contributing to Chinas reform and opening up, these companies have gained opportunities to grow stronger and received considerable return. Data shows that the first half of 2025 witnessed two-digit growth rate in the number of newly established foreign-invested enterprises in China. The third China International Supply Chain Expo wrapped up with the number of participating countries and regions growing from 55 in the first year to 75. The number of U.S. exhibitors is up by 15 percent compared with that of last year, continuing to lead in the number of foreign exhibitors. Over 65 percent of exhibitors were Fortune Global 500 firms or industry leaders. Foreign-funded companies have cast a vote of confidence in Chinas economic prospect with their concrete actions. The Chinese government recently rolled out new steps to encourage foreign investment, showing its sincerity and determination in advancing high-standard opening up. We welcome companies from all countries, including the U.S., to participate in the Chinese modernization drive and strive for greater progress while integrating themselves into high-quality development. Reuters: U.S. President Donald Trump has struck a trade deal with Japan. It lowers tariffs on auto imports and spares Tokyo new tariffs on other goods in exchange for a US$550 billion package of U.S.-bound investment and loans. What is Chinas response to the United States and Japan reaching this trade deal? Guo Jiakun: China, as always, believes that all parties should solve economic and trade disagreements through equal-footed dialogue and consultation, and uphold a sound environment for international trade and economic cooperation. TV Tokyo: There are reports that Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba has expressed his intention to resign by the end of August. How does China view this development? Additionally, what impact do you think this will have on China-Japan relations? Guo Jiakun: This is Japans internal affair and I have nothing in particular to say. China and Japan are close neighbors. It serves the fundamental interests of both countries and peoples to maintain the sound and steady development of bilateral relations, make joint effort to comprehensively advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit and build a constructive and stable China-Japan relationship fit for the new era. Bloomberg: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he will meet his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week for their third round of trade talks aimed at extending a tariff truce and widening the discussions. He also said the negotiations may take on a broader array of topics, including Beijings continued purchase of oil from Russia and Iran. I wonder if you could confirm the dates of the trade talks and comment on whether Beijing is willing to discuss oil purchases from Russia and Iran. Guo Jiakun: On economic and trade issues, Chinas position is consistent and clear. We hope the U.S. will work with China to act on the important common understandings reached by the two presidents in their phone conversation, make good use of the consultation mechanism, and engage in communication and dialogue on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, so that there will be more consensus and cooperation and less misperception, and the bilateral relations can achieve steady, sound and sustainable development. For anything specific, Id refer you to competent authorities. Reuters: What is Chinas response to President Donald Trumps announcement that he will be withdrawing the United States from UNESCO? Guo Jiakun: We noted that UNESCO and multiple countries expressed their regrets over the U.S.s decision to withdraw from the organization again. Its the third time that the U.S. has withdrawn from UNESCO. The country hasnt paid arrears for a long time. This is not what a responsible major country should do. The purpose of UNESCO is to advance international cooperation in education, science and culture, promote the mutual understanding and integration of civilizations, uphold world peace, and achieve common development. China firmly supports UNESCOs work. On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the U.N., we call on all countries to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, and take concrete action to support the UN-centered international system, the international order underpinned by international law, and the basic norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Reuters: A sweeping cyber espionage operation targeting Microsoft server software has compromised about 100 organizations as of the weekend. It was not clear who was behind the ongoing hack, but Alphabets Google said it tied at least some of the hacks to a China-nexus threat actor. What is the Foreign Ministrys response to Googles description of some of the hacks coming from a China-nexus threat actor? Guo Jiakun: Im not familiar with the specifics you mentioned. Cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries and should be addressed jointly through dialogue and cooperation. China opposes and fights hacking activities in accordance with the law. At the same time, we oppose smears and attacks against China under the excuse of cybersecurity issues. Reuters: India said it will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens from July 24 this year, the first time in five years. What is the Foreign Ministrys comment on this move? Guo Jiakun: We take note of this positive move. Easing cross-border travel is widely beneficial. China will maintain communication and consultation with India to further facilitate travel between the two countries. Bloomberg: Just to follow up on the Microsofts accusations. Were wondering if the Foreign Ministry thinks Microsoft is mistaken. Does China suspect other nations state hackers and does Beijing plan to take any action against Microsoft in China as a result of the accusation? Guo Jiakun: I gave my answer to this question just now. Im not familiar with the specifics you mentioned. Cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries. All parties need to work together to address cybersecurity issues, instead of using them as an excuse to make accusations and smears on others. AFP: Iran held a trilateral meeting with China and Russia on Tuesday to discuss the issue of Irans nuclear program. So what specific content was discussed at the meeting and what is Chinas position on that? Guo Jiakun: China always calls for a peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue through political and diplomatic means and maintains communication and coordination with relevant parties. We will continue to play a constructive role and work for the resumption of dialogue and negotiation among relevant parties and a solution that accommodates the legitimate concerns of all parties. Bloomberg: India and Bangladesh have both expressed concerns over Chinas hydropower dam project in Tibet, as have NGOs over concerns to the damage to biodiversity and peoples livelihoods. How does the Foreign Ministry respond to these concerns? Were also wondering if China has been in touch with neighbors over the construction of the dam and its downstream impacts. Guo Jiakun: To build the hydropower project in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is fully within Chinas sovereignty. The project aims to speed up clean energy development, improve local peoples life, and proactively respond to climate change. China acts with a high sense of responsibility in harnessing cross-border rivers, and has rich experience in hydropower projects. The planning, design and construction of this newly announced project strictly follows the highest national industrial standards. The project puts a lot of emphasis on all-round ecological conservation, stays away from multiple environmentally sensitive areas, and vows to preserve the original ecosystem to the largest extent possible. The project, once completed, will help prevent and mitigate disasters along the entire Yarlung Zangbo River, and will not adversely affect downstream regions. China is engaged in cooperation with downstream countries on sharing hydrological data, flood prevention and disaster reduction. We have had necessary communication with them on the project, and will continue enhancing cooperation for the benefit of all people along the river basin. AFP: The U.S. State Department confirmed that an employee of the U.S. government was made subject to an exit ban in China. Could you share more information on that? Guo Jiakun: I have no details to share. China upholds the rule of law and handles entry and exit affairs in accordance with the law. NEW DELHI, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government has extended the NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) for Pakistani flights until August 23, officials said Wednesday. The information was shared by Murlidhar Mohol, India's federal junior minister for civil aviation, through a social media post. "Update on Airspace Restriction. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting Pakistani aircraft from entering Indian airspace has been officially extended until 23rd August 2025," Mohol wrote on social media. According to the minister, the extension reflects continued strategic considerations and is in line with prevailing security protocols. New Delhi's action came days after Pakistan decided to extend the closure of its airspace for flights operated by Indian airlines by another month, until August 24. The previous NOTAM will expire on Thursday. Earlier on June 24, the ministry had announced a month-long extension of the NOTAM restricting Pakistani aircraft from coming into India. The first NOTAM by India was in force from May 1 to May 23. As per NOTAM issued by the federal ministry of civil aviation, no aircraft registered in Pakistan, and operated, owned or leased by Pakistani airlines or operators will be allowed to enter the Indian airspace. The airspace ban also applies to Pakistani military aircraft as per the NOTAM. NOTAMs on both sides were issued amid diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad in April this year over the attack in which 26 people were killed by gunmen at Baisaran area of Pahalgam town, about 89 km east of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir. A jury has found former All-Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler, Niall Gilligan not guilty of assaulting a then 12-year-old boy with a stick almost two years ago. At Ennis Circuit Court this Wednesday, the jury of seven men and five women delivered a majority 'not guilty' verdict regarding the charge that Mr Gilligan, aged 48, of Rossroe, Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge, County Clare had assaulted the boy with a stick at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Sixmilebridge on October 5, 2023. Mr Gilligan sat impassively in the court as the court registrar read out the not guilty majority verdicts in the case concerning the assault causing harm charge and producing a stick under Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act at the same location on the same date. Two women in the Gilligan family group seated at the back of the court to support Mr Gilligan wept as the 'not guilty' verdicts were called out while the parents of the then 12-year-old sitting on the opposite side of the court left the courtroom shortly after the verdicts were announced. READ MORE: Irish holidaymakers hit with Status Red flood warning in popular holiday destination The jury delivered its majority 'not guilty' verdict after five hours and three minutes of deliberations and returned to the court 48 minutes after Judge Francis Comerford directed, shortly after mid-day, that they could deliver a majority 11-1 or 10-2 verdict. Shortly before 1pm, the foreman replied yes when asked by the court registrar had at least 10 of the jury reached a verdict in the case. The jury reached their verdicts after five days of evidence, closing speech by lawyers from both sides and the judge's charge in the case. Judge Comerford thanked the jury for the careful deliberations you have taken. Mr Gilligan spoke briefly with his legal team of solicitor, Daragh Hassett and Patrick Whyms BL in the body of the court before leaving the courtroom. A farmer and auctioneer in Sixmilebridge, Mr Gilligan was not on legal aid for the case and will have to pay his legal bill from the six-day long trial from his own resources. In his closing speech to the jury, counsel for Mr Gilligan, Mr Whyms said on the evening at the Jamaica Inn hostel, Mr Gilligan didnt know that he was dealing with a child and did not create this situation. Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan "was at the end of his tether" by the vandalism being done to a vacant property he was trying to sell. Putting forward the defence of reasonable force against the charge of assault causing harm, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan was at the Jamaica Inn hostel on the night of October 5 in the dark and believed that he was under siege. He said: Believing himself under threat and needing to protect himself and his property, Niall Gilligan needs to make an instant decision and so we are here." The barrister added: And Mr Gilligan, a family man who has young children and no previous convictions gives a clear story which hast changed and an entirely credible, fulsome account of what happened." Mr Whyms said to the jury: Did Niall Gilligan use such force as was reasonable in the circumstances as he believed them to be and if he did then no offence was committed. In his prepared statement at Shannon garda station in February 2024 on the alleged assault, Mr Whyms said that Mr Gilligan has given a perfectly plausible account in an otherwise impeccably accurate description of what occurred which placed the boys inside the building when he met them. On the medical evidence, Mr Whyms said: Nobody wants to see a child being injured and it would be much better if that didnt happen and the boy was injured in this case." He said: There doesnt seem to be much room for argument that he was injured from the actions of Niall Gilligan. Mr Whyms said that a displaced fracture of a finger on the boys left hand is the only fracture in this case. He said: There is an un-displaced fracture of a finger - that is not a good thing to happen but that it is what happened He said: There were injuries and there were sustained in the incident but by and large, most were cleared up in the week and the last one was pretty well cleared up in two weeks." Mr Whyms said that the injuries dont look nice on the photographs - there is no getting away from that and injuries that are photographed immediately after don't look nice. Mr Whyms said that the injuries sustained by the boy are clearly regrettable. Two children and a woman have died in a shooting in Co Fermanagh, police have confirmed. A fourth person, a man, remains in a serious condition in hospital after the incident in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge. All four people are members of the same family, police said. READ NEXT: Jury finds All-Ireland winning hurler Niall Gilligan not guilty of assaulting young boy Superintendent Robert McGowan confirmed all four suffered gunshot wounds and officers remain at the scene, which has been cordoned off. Police are probing a triple murder and attempted suicide line of inquiry. The ages of the victims have not yet been released. Speaking in Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, Mr McGowan said that two people were pronounced dead at the scene while a third person died in hospital on Wednesday afternoon. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) said they received a 999 call at 8.21am on Wednesday and dispatched three emergency ambulances, one rapid response paramedic, two ambulance officers and an ambulance doctor to the scene. Mr McGowan said: Earlier this morning, police received a report of an incident in Maguiresbridge. Officers, along with their colleagues in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, attended a house in the Drummeer Road area. The scene in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge Tragically, despite best medical efforts, two people were pronounced dead at the scene. Sadly, I can confirm that a third person has this afternoon passed away in hospital. The fourth person, who was taken to hospital, remains in a condition described as serious. All four had sustained gunshot wounds and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household. Mr McGowan said the incident was ongoing when police arrived at the scene on Wednesday morning. It just happened prior to police attending, so, as you can appreciate, its a very harrowing scene for all involved, he told reporters. So, not only police officers, but colleagues in the ambulance service, and family members. Without going into detail, its a very harrowing scene for anybody to attend. He added: There is limited domestic history involving the people concerned and that is certainly one line of inquiry that the detectives will take forward. READ NEXT: 'Toxic, choking and strangulation' - Major retailer recalls several products as serious alert issued The scene in the Drummeer Road area of Maguiresbridge He said the alarm was raised by a phone call made from the house where the incident was taking place. I am keen first and foremost to express my sympathy to the family members and loved ones who are today left in total shock and who will struggle to come to terms with their unimaginable loss, he added. Detectives have now commenced a murder investigation and are working at pace to determine the circumstances. This is a quiet rural location and Im aware that this tragic event will have sent shockwaves of sadness throughout the community. Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said: The news from Maguiresbridge is tragic and deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the victims, their relatives and the local community in Fermanagh. I would urge the public not to speculate and to allow the PSNI to continue their investigation. Clarification . . . By all accounts the former star was a great guy, a talented actor AND great father. However . . . The newspaper notes the old school show "Malcolm & Eddie" without offering any context. Yes, it was a fun "urban" spin on The Odd Couple set in an imaginary loft above Kansas City's iconic Westport Kelly's Inn. But do you know why???? According to local comedy scene lore . . . Comedian Eddie Griffin, a Kansas City native, was a key part of the Kelly's reference because he HATED departed comedy club owner Craig Glazer SO MUCH that he wanted to reference Westport and his hometown but exclude his old boss. Mr. Griffin has given at least one interview where he mentioned the snub so the chatter amongst local comics isn't just gossip. In fact . . . The REAL STORY about the local connection is that local talent can earn national recognition but remain bitter about their experience in this cowtown. As far as we know, Mr. Warner didn't really care one way or another and was far more concerned with keeping the momentum of his career moving in the right direction. Meanwhile, here's the much nicer dead-tree reference . . . Malcolm-Jamal Warner, The Cosby Show actor who died Sunday, had strong Kansas City connections. The actor drowned in Costa Rica in what authorities described as an accident. After his run as Theo Huxtable, Warner starred in the Kansas City-set sitcom Malcolm & Eddie, which ran for four seasons from 1996 to 2000. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Tonight and into the early morning . . . This passage stands out more than any other . . . "This year so far is now Kansas City's second-deadliest in the past five years, with 92 homicides recorded . . . Only 2023 was deadlier, setting a grim record in the citys history of the deadliest year ever." Check TKC news gathering on stories related to local ALLEGED misdeeds, police action, mugshots and local jail building . . . Body found Tuesday afternoon on riverbank along the Missouri River in Kansas City, Missouri A death investigation is underway after an over-the-road trucker spotted a body Tuesday afternoon on the riverbank of the Missouri River. 14 people indicted in KC federal court for alleged drug trafficking conspiracy Fourteen Kansas City residents face drug and firearm charges, after an undercover ATF investigation revealed an alleged conspiracy involving meth and fentanyl distribution. Federal charges filed against 2 for string of 2024 bank, business robberies in Kansas City Federal charges have been filed against a pair of Kansas City men accused of a string of bank and business robberies. Suspect charged in Kansas City double shooting that killed two brothers The shooting happened at a convenience store near Truman Avenue and Brooklyn Street on Sunday, July 20. Missouri Park Ranger arrested, charged with sexually abusing child Deputies arrested 34-year-old Billy G Stephens III late Saturday night while he was on duty in Camdenton. Illinois police arrest double-murder suspect after Kansas child abduction TOPEKA (KSNT) - Police say a man accused of kidnapping a Topeka child and taking him more than 400 miles from home is in custody. The Mattoon Police Department (MPD) in Illinois said in a press rel... Kansas City man accused of shooting that left another driver seriously injured on Highway 71 A Kansas City man could spend life in prison after a shooting on Highway 71. Lenexa man sentenced for killing wife, son during police standoff A Lenexa man is sentenced to life in the killing of his wife and son during a police standoff last year Woman sues Crown Center hotel, claims she was drugged and assaulted at bar A woman is suing the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center after she was allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted at the hotel's bar, according to a Jackson County court document. City council seeks requests for proposals of temporary jail ahead of World Cup The proposed facility would house up to 130 inmates and could cost taxpayers up to $30 million. Developing . . . Nasty tech allegations that demand further investigation . . . Here's what we know right now . . . Court records allege the victim and a guardian spoke with Kansas City police on March 27, 2025. The victim alleges that Newton, listed as a "former school teacher aide" in court records, reached out to them on Snapchat. SUSPECT allegedly asked for a picture of the child . . . A probable cause statement was Newton admitted to police he had an "inappropriate conversation" over Snapchat. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . An important decision that pushes back so many municipalities looking to ruin the momentum of Missouri's greatest cash crop . . . Check-it: The Supreme Court signed a majority opinion on Tuesday that essentially bans stacking of marijuana taxes. Under the ruling, an incorporated village, town, or city may impose a 3% marijuana tax if the sale comes within its own jurisdiction. A county, however, can only impose a 3% marijuana tax if the sale happens in an unincorporated area of the county. The decision overturns a previous interpretation that allowed counties to collect the taxes in incorporated areas, in addition to incorporated municipalities. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . This story is a done deal but worth revisiting for our readers who might not have seen it in their feed. Check-it: Missouri has nullified a Kansas City ordinance and others like it that sharply limit what landlords can ask potential tenants - including about their ability to even pay the rent . . .The KC ordinance, as well as its previous anti-landlord laws, have driven property owners to flee the Kansas City market. It absolutely violated our private property rights, and it goes against every successful and smart business tenet that weve ever had, says Stacey Johnson-Cosby, president of the bi-state KC Regional Housing Alliance of metro-area housing providers. Under the now-overridden ordinance, she says, I cannot say no to someone who had a previous eviction over a year old. I cannot say no to someone who has bad credit or a low credit score. I cannot say no to someone whos had prior property damage in a previous rental. I cannot say no to someone with a criminal arrest history. Literally. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. On July 22, Shusha once again hosted the Vagif Poetry Days, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Union of Azerbaijani Writers, Trend reports. The event was attended by Aydin Karimov, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Shusha district; Adil Karimli, Minister of Culture; representatives of state and government bodies; and prominent scientific and cultural figures. Anar, Chairman of the Union of Azerbaijani Writers and People's Writer, emphasized that hosting the Vagif Poetry Days in Shusha for the fifth time is a significant cultural milestone. He noted that the continuity of the event reflects the high value placed on Azerbaijani culture. Aktoty Raimkulova, President of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, underscored in her speech that poetry - one of the shared values of the Turkic world - connects people beyond time and borders. As part of the Poetry Days, a variety of literary and artistic programs will be held across Shushas historical and cultural landmarks, including poetry readings, book exhibitions and presentations, musical compositions, scientific conferences, theater performances, and more. These events will take place at notable venues such as the Museum-Mausoleum Complex of Molla Panah Vagif restored by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the House of Natavan, the Garabagh Hotel, and the Mehmandarovs Estate. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) continues its strategic initiatives to expand access to financial resources for the country's real sector on favorable terms, Trend reports via CBA. Central Bank noted that under the new program, funds attracted by banks and non-bank credit organizations (NBCOs) from non-resident financial institutions will be hedged with a financial instrument provided by the Central Bank. Moreover, it was noted that under the program, funds raised by banks and NBCOs from non-resident financial institutions will be hedged by a financial instrument provided by the Central Bank after conversion into manats. Hedge funds will be used to finance micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, family farms, and the self-employed through loans and leasing. Furthermore, it was noted that the favorable environment created by recent reforms in the country to strengthen macroeconomic stability, enhance monetary policy transmission, and regulate the financial sector has laid the foundation for the implementation of a program that will contribute to improving access to financial services. It was noted that the strategic initiatives implemented have created the basis for international rating agencies to upgrade Azerbaijan's sovereign credit rating to investment grade, and also predict positive dynamics for the subsequent period. "Against the backdrop of the country's sovereign rating upgrade, the strengthening of the financial stability of credit institutions also has a positive impact on their rating indicators. Thus, this favorable environment expands the opportunities for local financial institutions to attract funds from international markets. To ensure the effective use of attracted resources within the country and sustainable financing, the Central Bank deemed it necessary to support them with appropriate financial instruments and decided to introduce a new financial mechanism," the information notes. According to the information, the program will also cover funds raised within three months before it entered into force on August 1, 2025, and used to finance the aforementioned target groups: "In this case, banks and NBCOs can take advantage of the opportunity provided by the CBA by liquidating existing active hedging instruments. In this case, 50 percent of the savings will be used to ease lending conditions for customers." Overall, the program will help bring foreign financial resources into the country's economy by expanding the ability of credit organizations to borrow on foreign financial markets. The use of the proposed new hedging instrument by credit institutions will also reduce the cost of resources attracted for lending. Overall, the use of this instrument creates an important basis for achieving the goals of diversifying and expanding the economy, as well as increasing financial accessibility. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. On July 23, the Vagif Poetry Days, jointly organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and the Union of Azerbaijani Writers, concluded in the city of Shusha, Trend reports. The events last day featured the Master of the Word theatre performance directed by Hafiz Guliyev, Azerbaijans Honored Artist, authored by poet and writer Ilgar Fahmi. National Leader Heydar Aliyev laid the foundation for the Vagif Poetry Days on January 14, 1982, in Shusha. At that time, Vagifs mausoleum and the Poetry House were inaugurated with his participation, and the decision to establish the poetry days was made. Until 1991, the festival traditionally started in Gazakh, the poets homeland, and concluded in the city of Shusha, the cradle of Azerbaijani culture. Following the liberation of the city by the victorious Azerbaijani Army under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the poetry days returned to their birthplace - the cultural capital of Azerbaijan. WINDHOEK, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security (MHAISS) has issued a public clarification over its arrival form procedures to address confusion among international travelers. The updated guidelines aim to streamline the entry process for certain categories of visitors. MHAISS Executive Director Etienne Maritz, in a statement released Tuesday, said that not all travelers are required to complete arrival forms upon entry into Namibia. This exemption applies to Namibian citizens, individuals domiciled in Namibia (which includes non-Namibians married to Namibian citizens and their dependent children), and holders of permanent residence permits issued under Namibia's Immigration Control Act of 1996. Additionally, travelers holding e-visas are no longer required to complete a separate arrival form if their e-visa explicitly indicates that it serves this purpose. These individuals are simply required to sign the printed e-visa in the presence of an immigration officer at the port of entry, Maritz said. However, he said, travelers who obtained their e-visas before the implementation of the new e-visa format will still need to complete an arrival form, as their version does not serve this dual purpose. "This requirement will remain in effect until all older e-visas are phased out. Travelers with older e-visas are encouraged to log into the e-visa portal and download the updated version of their visa, which now includes arrival form functionality," Maritz added. He urged travelers to carefully read the conditions stated on their e-visa and visit the ministry's website and social media platforms regularly for the latest updates. "The ministry remains committed to facilitating smooth and efficient entry procedures while ensuring compliance with immigration requirements," Maritz said. Namibia launched its new visa-on-arrival application form and e-visa-for-visa-on-arrival system on April 1 to simplify the visa application process for international travelers. Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Trend reports. "Dear Mr. President, On behalf of myself and the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my sincere congratulations and best wishes to you and, through you, to your entire nation on the occasion of the national holiday of the Arab Republic of Egypt Revolution Day. The dynamic development of relations between Azerbaijan and Egypt is a source of great satisfaction. High-level reciprocal visits and regular contacts play a significant role in enriching our cooperation with new substance. Today, there is substantial potential for deepening our relations across various fields. I am confident that, for the sake of our peoples prosperity, we will continue joint efforts to leverage these opportunities and further expand our traditional friendly relations and fruitful cooperation. On this momentous day, I wish you robust health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, and everlasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Egypt," the letter reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The visit of Azerbaijan Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, accompanied by senior Ministry leadership, to Turkiye continues, Trend reports, citing Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense. As part of the visit, a meeting was conducted with the President of Secretariat of Defense Industries under the Presidency of the Republic of Turkiye, Mr. Haluk Gorgun. The meeting held within the framework of the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), highlighted that further expansion of Azerbaijani-Turkish military cooperation rooted in friendship, brotherhood and strategic alliance is a central priority of the heads of state. The meeting also addressed prospects for the development of military cooperation between the 2 countries, along with other issues of common interest. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, received the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to Azerbaijan, George Deek, on the occasion of the conclusion of his diplomatic mission in the country on July 23, Trend reports via Azerbaijani MFA. Minister Bayramov expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Deek for his effective diplomatic service and wished him success in his future endeavors. During the meeting, the sides discussed bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel, as well as the regional situation. Collaboration in political, economic, trade, energy, investment, and humanitarian fields was praised, with both parties emphasizing the strong potential for further development of relations. The parties expressed concerns over the tense situation in the Middle East, with Azerbaijan reaffirming its support for peace and stability in the region and its readiness to contribute to this process. Ambassador Deek noted that he would always remember his six-year tenure as Israels ambassador to Azerbaijan and expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his mission. The meeting also included an exchange of views on other issues of mutual interest. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on the major repair of the Dallar JayirDallar Dashbulag and GadimqalaMiskinliKechiliKhuluf roads in the Shamkir district, Trend reports. According to the decree, two million manat ($1.18 million) has been initially allocated to the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads for the major repair of the roads connecting six residential settlements with a total population of 20,000. The funds are drawn from sub-item 1.19.21 of the "Allocation of State Capital Investments (Investment Expenditures) in the 2025 State Budget of Azerbaijan," approved by Presidential Decree No. 445 dated January 10, 2025. The Ministry of Finance of Azerbaijan must ensure the financing of the amount specified in this decree. The Ministry of Economy must include the necessary funds for the continuation of the road reconstruction in the 2026 state budget under capital investment expenditures. The Cabinet of Ministers must resolve the issues arising from the decree. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a decree approving the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the State Agency for Citizen Service and Social Innovations under the President of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Public Administration and Reforms of the Republic of Senegal, Trend reports. The MoU, signed in Baku on June 3, 2025, establishes a framework for cooperation between the two countries in areas of public administration and social innovation. Following the entry into force of the agreement, the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of Azerbaijan will be responsible for ensuring the implementation of its provisions. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan must notify the Government of Senegal once all necessary domestic procedures for the MoUs activation are completed. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. Relations between Azerbaijan and Israel will continue to grow, said outgoing Ambassador of Israel in Baku George Deek, Trend reports. "Today I had the honor of meeting with Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov for a farewell conversation as I conclude my mission as Israels ambassador. I expressed my deep gratitude to him and the MFA team for their cooperation, trust, and friendship over the past six years. A milestone moment in our journey was the opening of Azerbaijans embassy in Israel in 2023a historic step that reflects the growing depth of our partnership. As I take my leave, I carry with me not only memories but also hope: that our relations will continue to grow, and that peace will prevailin the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and beyond," Ambassador Deek wrote on his X page. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, who is on a visit to Turkiye to participate in the IDEF 2025 17th International Defence Industry Fair, met with the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense told Trend. At the meeting held in Istanbul, it was emphasized that the relations between the two countries are based on mutual trust, cooperation, and cultural values. The parties discussed the current state of Azerbaijani-Pakistani military cooperation and held a thorough exchange of views on activities aimed at further strengthening these relations. The meeting also discussed new prospects for the development of military relations. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. Azerbaijan Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, along with other senior Ministry officials, participated in the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) during the visit to the Republic of Turkiye, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense told Trend. The Azerbaijani delegation conducted a thorough inspection of the weapons, equipment, and military vehicles exhibited by leading defense industry companies from around the world at the international fair, and engaged in meetings with their management. During the meetings, an in-depth exchange of views took place regarding various aspects of military-technical cooperation, future development prospects, and other matters of common interest. Within the framework of the exhibition, several agreements were signed with the participation of Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan Director General Agil Gurbanov, as well as representatives of MIRAS Military-Industrial Company LLC, operating under the Ministry of Defense, and Azersilah Defence Industry Holding CJSC under the Ministry of Defence Industry. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. On July 23, First Deputy Minister of Defense Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General, Karim Valiyev, held a meeting with a delegation headed by the Chief of Defence of Italian Armed Forces, General Luciano Portolano, during the latters visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports via the Ministry of Defense. Afterwards, the Italian delegation visited Alley of Martyrs. Flowers and wreaths were arranged at the graves of Martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the independence and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, as well as at the Eternal Flame monument. During the official welcoming ceremony at General Staff of Azerbaijan Army, following the ceremonial passage in front of the guard of honor, the National Anthems of both countries were performed, and the Book of Honor was signed following the protocol. After the official welcoming ceremony, Colonel General Karim Valiyev expressed satisfaction with seeing his Italian counterpart in Azerbaijan. Emphasizing the significance of the existing military relations between Azerbaijan and Italy, the Chief of the General Staff highlighted the value of such visits in terms of fostering mutual exchange of experience. Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality, General Luciano Portolano conveyed his satisfaction with the current state of cooperation between the two countries, affirming its positive contribution to the progress of both armies. The meeting focused on the further enhancement of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy in the military, military-technical, and military educational fields, as well as on various other issues. Both sides expressed confidence in the continued success hereinafter. Then, the Italian delegation arrived at the Cybersecurity Center, where the guests got acquainted with the activities carried out to ensure the cybersecurity of modern weapon systems and information technology equipment adopted into the Azerbaijan Armys armament. Additionally, the delegation was informed in detail about modern cybersecurity tools powered by artificial intelligence. Subsequently, the delegation visited the Air Force Combat Control Center, where they were familiarized with the conditions in place. The guests received a comprehensive briefing on the centers organizational structure, operational principles, and key areas of activity. At the end, one of the military units of the Special Forces was visited. Flowers were laid in front of the bust of the National Leader, Heydar Aliyev, and the monument complex in memory of Martyrs in the territory of the military unit. The Italian guests were provided with detailed information regarding the military unit. Following their familiarization with the military unit, the guests watched a series of exemplary combat training performances conducted by members of the Special Forces. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. Azerbaijan participated in the Global Forum on Youth Development-2025 held under the slogan "Unlocking the Potential of Youth for Global Development", which opened in Suzhou, China, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend. Meanwhile, it was noted that the forum was attended by about 500 people from more than 100 countries and 17 international organizations, including young ministers, leaders, and representatives of various organizations aimed to contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and China's international cooperation with youth in the field of development, security, and civilization. As many as 100 projects were presented at the event within the framework of the 2025 Global Action Plan for Youth Development, and sessions were organized on green consumption, technological innovations, artificial intelligence, and the protection of cultural heritage. With the support of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, a forum called "Silk Road Young Entrepreneurs" was held within the framework of the event. The event was attended by 37 young people from 35 countries from Africa, Asia, and Europe, and panel discussions were held on the topics of entrepreneurship, innovation, and global challenges. Deputy Secretary General of the Chinese Youth Federation Liu Kai and President of the Great Silk Road International Youth Union Aytan Aliyeva delivered speeches at the opening ceremony of the Silk Road Young Entrepreneurs forum. Kai spoke in her speech about the importance of entrepreneurship and cooperation among young people, the successes achieved together with the Great Silk Road Youth Union, and the work done within the framework of the One Road, One Belt initiative. Aliyeva stated that the aim of the event was to bring together young people from the Silk Road countries and create a network of entrepreneurs. She thanked the Chinese Youth Federation for hosting the event and the State Committee on Work with Diaspora for its support for the work. Head of the International Relations and Sustainable Development Department of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan, Afat Mammadova, acted as the moderator of the forum. Her sessions in English and Chinese were highly appreciated. In the session titled "Voice of Youth: Silk Road Innovators", young startups from Pakistan, Turkiye, Senegal, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and other countries presented their innovative projects. Panel discussions discussed how young people can respond to global problems through innovation and contribute to sustainable development goals. The forum culminated with presentation of certificates to the participants. Then, the participants went on a business trip to the cities of Shanghai, Changsha, and Xi'an. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese police cracked 1.739 million telecom fraud cases and arrested 366,000 suspects, including 3,442 major financiers and core members of the crime groups, during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), senior police officer Jiang Guoli said at a press conference on Wednesday. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 23. Azerbaijan intends to fund the construction of a modern children's hospital in Bishkek, said Kanybek Tumanbayev, Head of the Presidential Affairs Department of Kyrgyzstan, Trend reports. Speaking to journalists during a visit to the National Center for Maternal and Child Health Protection, Tumanbayev noted that initial plans had considered building the facility in the Issyk-Kul region. However, following the visit of President Sadyr Japarov to Azerbaijan, the decision was made to implement the project in the capital. "Preparatory work has already begun," Tumanbayev stated. He added that the new medical facility will be fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology and built in accordance with modern standards. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Deputy Chair of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Minister of Defence, Zukan Helez, began participating in the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), which will take place from July 22 to July 27, 2025, in Istanbul, Trend reports. IDEF 2025, organized under the patronage of the President of the Republic of Turkiye, is one of the largest and most significant military industry fairs in the region. It brings together leading domestic and international companies from the defense and security sectors, providing a key platform for showcasing modern equipment, exchanging knowledge, and strengthening international cooperation. On the very first day of the fair, Minister Helez held a meeting with the President of the Defence Industry Agency of the Republic of Turkiye, Prof. Dr. Haluk Gorgun. During the meeting, the cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Turkiye in the field of defense was discussed, including achievements so far, current challenges, and directions for future collaboration. Minister Helez expressed particular satisfaction with the meeting, emphasizing the important role of the Defence Industry Agency in supporting projects implemented through the Ministry of National Defence of the Republic of Turkiye. He also agreed with Prof. Gorgun to intensify cooperation between the defense industries of the two countries. Minister Helez underlined to Gorgun that Bosnia and Herzegovinas integration into the European Union and NATO are two strategic goals of the countrys foreign and security policy. The Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina expresses its lasting and deep commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation with the Republic of Turkiye and its full readiness to continue implementing the existing military-financial cooperation agreement with Turkiye, and it believes that a new agreement will be signed in 2026. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria, Georg Georgiev, held a bilateral working meeting with the British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during a one-day working visit to London at the invitation of the British side, Trend reports. The meeting took place within the framework of the active political dialogue between the two countries, which is developing based on the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed in October 2023. The two ministers discussed the progress and future prospects of the strategic partnership in key areas, including security and defense, economy and trade, education, science, innovation, and high technology. Our relations have never been more dynamic. Security and stability in Europe, new technologies, and education are areas where we can achieve even bolder results, said Minister Georgiev. Minister David Lammy emphasized: Bulgaria is an important partner of the United Kingdom in Europe from Black Sea security to the development of high technologies. Our common interest is clear a safer and more prosperous continent. A special focus of the talks was cooperation in countering illegal migration and fighting organized crime. Minister Lammy expressed gratitude to Bulgaria for its active role and close cooperation in this field. The fight against illegal migration is a shared responsibility. For Bulgaria, it is a matter of honor to contribute to the security of all European citizens, Minister Georgiev stressed. An important topic on the agenda was also the progress of the British global initiative to reform child care, launched in January 2025 in Sofia. Bulgaria was chosen to launch this initiative because it is an example of successful reform in support of children. Your experience inspires and shows that institutions can be replaced with genuine family care, Minister Lammy stated. Support for children and families is an investment in the future. Bulgarias experience proves that reforms are possible when there is political will and a positive attitude towards such an important process, Minister Georgiev added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. In Lithuania, investors using the services of virtual currency exchange operators and depository virtual currency wallet operators (hereinafter the operators) should already check whether the company providing the services to them has applied for a licence of a crypto-asset service provider, Trend reports citing the country's Central Bank. If a company providing crypto-asset services does not intend to continue its business according to the procedure laid down in Regulation (EU) No 2023/1114 of the European Parliament and of the Council on markets in crypto-assets (hereinafter the MiCA), investors should take steps to protect their assets entrusted to such a company by the end of the transitional period, i.e. 31 December 2025, says Lietuvos bankas. Investors may choose where to store their crypto-assets, but it is important that the service is provided by the crypto-asset service provider holding the necessary authorisation. Only the activities of crypto-asset service providers licensed under the MiCA are subject to supervision by Lietuvos bankas and, therefore, an investor will not be able to protect their rights by contacting Lietuvos bankas in case of disagreements with an unlicensed crypto-asset market participant, says Dalia Juskeviciene, head of the Investment Services and Undertakings Supervision Division of Lietuvos bankas. As instructed by investors, the operator that does not intend to continue operations should transfer the crypto-assets to a licensed crypto-asset service provider for safekeeping or to the investors personal self-hosted wallet. It should be noted that a service contract with the crypto-asset service provider of the investors choice should be concluded prior to the transfer of crypto-assets. At the request of investors, crypto-assets may also be exchanged for funds. Investors should contact the operator regarding the funds held and order the transfer of their funds to a payment account opened in their name or to the crypto-asset service provider of their choice, if this option is available under the contractual terms. The transitional period for obtaining a licence of a crypto-asset service provider will end on 31 December 2025 in Lithuania. After this period, crypto-asset service providers that do not obtain a licence according to the procedure laid down in the MiCAwill lose their right to operate. Activities of crypto-asset service providers will be legal if they will have (or already have) a licence issued in Lithuania or another European Union (EU) Member State in accordance with the MiCA. These service providers must comply with the investor protection measures laid down in the MiCA, ensure a higher level of protection of client assets, transparency and compliance with legal requirements. The list of crypto-asset service providers licensed in Lithuania is available on Lietuvos bankas website. The list of crypto-asset companies licensed in other EU Member States that provide services without being established in Lithuania can be found here. Until the end of the transitional period, unlicensed operators are only entitled to provide crypto-asset-related services in their country of registration. It should be pointed out that asset protection for investors who use the services of operators is limited due to lower regulatory requirements. Lists of virtual currency exchange operators and depository virtual currency wallet operators registered in Lithuania are available on the website of the State Enterprise Centre of Registers. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia approved amendments proposed by the Ministry of Finance to two regulatory acts aimed at simplifying the selection, evaluation, and monitoring processes of European Union (EU) fund projects, Trend reports citing the country's Finance Ministry. These amendments were developed as part of the Ministrys action plan to reduce administrative burden in EU-funded projects and are intended to ensure more efficient project implementation by easing the load on both funding recipients and involved institutions. The government approved changes to the regulations governing how institutions implement EU funds during the 20212027 planning period. The number of evaluation criteria for limited calls for EU-funded projects will be reduced in the future, the responsible ministry will be able to evaluate projects based solely on general eligibility and selection criteria, without requiring additional specific or quality criteria. This means that ministries will no longer have to seek approval for these criteria from the Monitoring Committees subcommittee and the Monitoring Committee itself. As a result, the Central Finance and Contracting Agency (CFLA) can begin preparing selection documentation earlier, expediting the launch of project calls, evaluations, contract signings, and the start of investments. The amendments also introduce a more flexible approach to the cost-benefit analysis of projects. In the future, applicants will only need to conduct the part of the analysis required for their project financial, economic, or sensitivity analysis as determined by Cabinet regulations for the specific support objective. At the same time, the requirement for a risk assessment analysis is being removed, as this is already included in the project application form. These changes will save time and resources while still complying with EU fund requirements. Funding recipients will be able to start projects more quickly, and the state can declare eligible expenses to the European Commission in a more timely manner. Amendments were also approved to the regulations on how checks are carried out for EU Structural Funds and Cohesion Fund projects for the 20142020 planning period. As the eligibility deadline for this period ended in late 2023 and most projects are complete, the post-monitoring period has now begun. However, some recipients are still continuing their projects using their own funds. Currently, the CFLA conducts site checks during the result maintenance phase at least once for high-risk projects and randomly for low- and medium-risk projects. The amendments stipulate that future checks will only be conducted if an elevated risk is identified for example, if there are signs that project sustainability might be at risk, third-party information is received, or fraud indicators are found. Additionally, the volume of checks will be reduced for completed projects whose final payments have not yet been fully made in these cases, inspections will also only occur if there are signs of possible risk. This strengthens the accountability of funding recipients, based on a trust-based approach that assumes project results will be preserved and significant changes will not be made without prior approval. The previous requirement to hold quarterly meetings with the Procurement Monitoring Bureau has also been abolished. This change will reduce the administrative burden and allow institutions to collaborate based on actual needs rather than a fixed schedule. As previously reported, the Ministry of Finance, as the policymaker for the implementation of EU investments, has been actively working since spring to simplify EU funds. An action plan is being implemented to reduce the administrative burden in project implementation, supporting the Prime Ministers goal to cut bureaucracy by 25% by 2026. Azerbaijan's imports from US skyrocket, doubling in volume Trade between Azerbaijan and the US reached $593.7 million in JanuaryJune 2025, up 36 percent from the same period in 2024. Imports from the US rose to $555.6 milliontwice as much as last yearwhile exports fell sharply to $38.1 million, down from $164.5 million. As a result, the US ranked 7th among Azerbaijans top trade partners. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 23. The negotiations between the Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan and representatives of China led to the signing of several memoranda of cooperation with major Chinese logistics companies aimed at developing the multimodal transport corridor China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan-Afghanistan, a source at Uzbekistans Ministry of Transport told Trend. Among the signatories are China COSCO Shipping Logistics Co., Ltd., Sinotrans Limited, and China Railway International Multimodal Transport Co., Ltd. These companies will be involved in organizing multimodal shipments, handling customs clearance, providing digital services, and developing railway routes. The signing of memoranda with major Chinese logistics companies opens up new opportunities for the development of the China Kyrgyzstan Uzbekistan Afghanistan transport corridor. The joint efforts will not only enhance the efficiency of cargo transportation but also attract investment into the development of modern logistics infrastructure. "The main areas of cooperation include organizing pilot shipments and regular services, developing multimodal logistics solutions, and optimizing transport schemes. Special attention is being given to supporting projects aimed at creating logistics hubs and implementing digital services for cargo tracking," the source noted. "Specific projects are already being developed under the agreements, including pilot container shipments, joint investments in logistics infrastructure, as well as participation in consortia for route management," the source emphasized. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. TotalEnergies and CMA CGM have announced a new 50/50 joint venture to develop and operate a liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering supply chain in the Port of Rotterdam, Trend reports. The move strengthens the companies shared commitment to accelerating the energy transition in maritime transport. Under the agreement, a new 20,000-cubic-meter LNG bunker vessel will be deployed in Rotterdam by the end of 2028. The vessel will be jointly operated and integrated with TotalEnergies existing LNG infrastructure in the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region, where the 18,600 m Gas Agility has been in service since 2020. The new joint venture aims to offer comprehensive LNG logistics services, from reload access at the Gate terminal to final delivery to vesselsserving not only CMA CGMs dual-fuel fleet but also other shipping operators. This strategic partnership not only strengthens our position in LNG bunkering but also reflects our shared ambition to support decarbonization in shipping, said Patrick Pouyanne, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies. As part of a long-term supply commitment, TotalEnergies will deliver up to 360,000 tons of LNG annually to CMA CGM from 2028 through 2040. The agreement supports CMA CGMs goal of reaching net-zero carbon by 2050, with its LNG-powered fleet expected to reach 123 vessels by 2029. This is a concrete step to scale up alternative fuels and accelerate the decarbonization of global trade, said Rodolphe Saade, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM. For the first time, a shipping company and an energy provider will jointly operate an LNG bunkering vessel. The partnership builds on a longstanding collaboration between the two French companies. Since 2017, TotalEnergies has supplied LNG to CMA CGM through agreements covering both the ports of Rotterdam and Marseille Fos, and has carried out a series of landmark LNG bunkering operations in Europe. The formation of the joint venture is subject to regulatory approvals. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. All banks of Azerbaijan will pass to Az-QR standard by the end of October this year, the Chairman of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), Taleh Kazimov, said at a press conference held today, Trend reports. "Work is underway to integrate all banks into the new version of the instant payment system. We plan to make all payments up to 40,000 manat ($23,530) within the country through this system," he noted. The chairman said that this means reducing costs and the cost of the transaction. "This is a big project. Another issue is that by the end of October, all banks will switch to the Az-QR standard. Entrepreneurs and consumers will be able to make payments with a QR code at all payment points. This is a great advantage for small and micro entrepreneurs. We are also discussing the opportunity to make payments with QR, instead of an expensive POS terminal, with the State Tax Service. One of the largest projects currently is to make payments in public transport possible through all cards, as well as via QR codes. I believe each of these projects will be completed by the end of the year," the chairman noted. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. The implementation of Islamic banking in Azerbaijan requires careful consideration of every detail, risk, and related factors, said Taleh Kazimov, Chairman of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), Trend reports. Speaking today at a press conference, Kazimov emphasized that adopting this banking model is an enormous task that begins with assessing the countrys demand for Islamic banking services. He explained that forming the necessary legislation and conducting research and analysis is a joint effort involving several institutions, not just the CBA. Currently, the Central Bank is cooperating with the Islamic Development Bank on sukuk issuance, which serves as the basis for a legislative package in preparation. We are also developing an Islamic window to study market demand for Islamic banking, Kazimov said. The Islamic window will enable existing banks to offer deposit and credit products compliant with Islamic finance principles, helping to identify real demand for this model. According to a 2022 assessment, the potential volume of Islamic credit offerings was estimated at around 300 million manat ($176.4 million), which is small compared to the total credit portfolio of the sector. With the Islamic window, we will better assess demand, although so far, we do not see strong interest, Kazimov noted. Islamic banking operates without the conventional interest system, which is a fundamental difference from modern banking practices where depositors earn a fixed interest on their funds. In Islamic finance, earning or paying interest (known as riba) is prohibited. Instead, the model is based on profit and loss sharing: when you deposit money in an Islamic bank, the bank invests those funds into business ventures or projects. The resulting profits are then shared between the depositor and the bank according to a pre-agreed ratio. Crucially, the depositor also shares in any losses, reflecting a true partnership in both profit and risk. The primary objective of this system is to ensure that neither party bears losses alone unfairly. Islamic banking principles are widely practiced in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkiye, and others. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel This undated file photo shows the factory of Japanese firm Rexxam Co., Ltd. in Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua) KUNMING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- In the industrial park of Mile City, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China's Yunnan Province, Japanese firm Rexxam Co., Ltd. is nurturing a "sweet harvest," turning local abundant molasses resources into a thriving yeast industry. The company has recently broken ground on a new factory, which is set to produce 20,000 tonnes of yeast annually for food and pharmaceuticals. Yeast, a microorganism, has long been a key player in human activities such as brewing and baking. Rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, yeast offers many health benefits and is now widely used in food, medicine, health care and cosmetics. Molasses, a by-product of sugar production from sugarcane, is the primary raw material for yeast production. It takes about 5 tonnes of molasses to produce 1 tonne of yeast. Yunnan is China's second-largest sugarcane production base, accounting for about 20 percent of the country's total sugar output. According to statistics from Kunming Customs, in 2024, Yunnan exported nearly 22,000 tonnes of active yeast, a year-on-year increase of 11.8 percent, to 59 countries and regions worldwide. "Yunnan's rich and low-cost molasses resources offer Rexxam a stable and sustainable raw material advantage. This not only supports industrial waste valorization but also brings both economic and environmental benefits," said Jia Yankun, representative of Rexxam's Kunming office. Founded in 1960, Rexxam has been operating in China for nearly three decades since its entry in 1995. It is one of the longest-standing and most active Japanese investors in the region. Starting with wood processing and flower cultivation, the company gradually shifted its focus to the biofermentation industry, aiming to develop a "sweet industry chain" centered on molasses. In 2014, Rexxam built a yeast production line in Baoshan City, Yunnan, with an annual capacity of 5,000 tonnes. The factory primarily produces yeast products as feed, supplying yeast hydrolysates and yeast selenium to several large domestic feed companies. These products are also exported to Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe and other countries and regions. The success of the Baoshan project has strengthened Rexxam's confidence in expanding its yeast business in China. "We value not only Yunnan's raw material resources but also the increasingly open and inclusive business environment and the improving industrial infrastructure here," Jia added. In June, at the 9th China-South Asia Expo, Rexxam signed a cooperation agreement with Mile City to invest 700 million yuan (about 98 million U.S. dollars) in the new plant. The first phase, with a capacity of 5,000 tonnes, is expected to start production in early 2027. "The new plant will represent a significant upgrade in terms of production scale, product variety and overall facilities compared to our existing Baoshan factory," Jia said. In the overall plan for the new Mile factory, Rexxam also intends to recycle the organic wastewater generated during yeast production into high-efficiency organic fertilizer, which will then be provided free of charge to local farmers for the cultivation of sugarcane and other crops. Not just Rexxam from Japan, but an increasing number of foreign-invested enterprises from countries and regions such as the United States, Australia and Thailand are choosing to take root in China's southwestern region, driving rural revitalization. Statistics show that, as of now, enterprises from 114 countries and regions around the world have invested in Yunnan, establishing a total of 7,105 foreign-invested enterprises and utilizing 24.98 billion U.S. dollars in actual foreign capital. China's determination to open up has boosted foreign investment. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, from January to May 2025, China saw 24,018 new foreign-invested enterprises established, representing a 10.4 percent year-on-year increase. A survey by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China shows that more than half of the surveyed companies plan to "increase" or "maintain" their investment in China in 2025. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 23. Bahodir Kurbanov, head of Uzbekistans State Security Service (SSS), met with Afghanistans Intelligence Chief, Abdul Haq Wasiq, in Kabul to discuss critical issues including the inviolability of state borders, counterterrorism efforts, drug trafficking, and regional stability, Trend reports. Both sides highlighted their ongoing commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region and stressed the importance of fully integrating Afghanistan into the international community. They also noted active bilateral negotiations in key sectors such as energy, trade, and transportation. In addition to the talks with Wasiq, Kurbanov held separate meetings with Afghanistans Minister of Defense, Yakub, and Minister of Interior, Hakkani. Meanwhile, earlier this month, the Foreign Ministers of Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Pakistan signed a Trilateral Framework Agreement to conduct a feasibility study for the UzbekistanAfghanistanPakistan Trans-Afghan Railway. This major infrastructure project aims to boost regional trade, support Afghanistans economic recovery, and open new access routes to global markets through southern ports. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 23. Uzbekistan and Russia have reached an important agreement on the operation of more than 1,000 regular weekly flights between cities in both countries, following negotiations held in Moscow, Trend reports. The deal also includes lifting restrictions on the number of airlines permitted to operate "triangle" routes connecting three destinations, granting each airline the right to select up to five cities. This substantial increase in flight frequency, driven by a sharp rise in tourist traffic between the two nations, is expected to enable the transportation of more than 16 million passengers annually. Airlines are anticipated to fully utilize the agreed flight frequencies, further enhancing connectivity. Meanwhile, a whopping 32,565 flights were operated between Uzbekistan and Russia in 2024, serving a total of 4,098,605 passengers. Uzbekistan unveils fresh data on foreign-invested enterprises As of July 1, 2025, Uzbekistan hosts 16,685 enterprises with foreign investment, with trade leading as the dominant sector, accounting for over 36% of these businesses. The foreign-invested enterprises span diverse industries, highlighting Uzbekistans growing appeal across sectors such as industry, construction, and information technology. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. As part of his working visit to the Czech Republic, Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy, met with Lukas Vlcek, Czech Minister of Industry and Trade, engaging in discussions on vital economic cooperation, Trend reports. The meeting emphasized the significance of Azerbaijani-Czech relations and highlighted the role of the Joint Commission on Economic, Scientific, Technical, and Cultural Cooperation in expanding bilateral ties. The sides underlined the importance of reciprocal visits and maintain constant dialogue. They also explored opportunities to increase bilateral trade and strengthen cooperation in energy, industry, transport, transit, tourism, and investment. During his meeting with Czech Minister of Transport Martin Kupka, Minister Jabbarov provided an overview of Azerbaijans socio-economic goals, recent achievements, and the countrys favorable business environment. He also highlighted Azerbaijans growing transport and transit potential in light of current geopolitical changes, emphasizing the opportunities available to investors. Both sides identified transport and transit as priority areas of cooperation and exchanged views on infrastructure development projects. Discussions also covered proposals related to innovation, the space industry, and startup ecosystems. In a meeting with Petr Cingr, Vice Chairman of the Czech AGROFERT Company, the sides emphasized the importance of efficient agricultural practices and the shift toward sustainable production. Minister Jabbarov presented investment opportunities in Azerbaijan and identified potential areas for cooperation. He invited AGROFERT to take advantage of Azerbaijans favorable business environment and engage in active collaboration. During another meeting with Tomas Ignacak, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Skoda Group, Minister Jabbarov outlined Azerbaijans economic priorities and efforts to promote green technologies. The parties discussed possible cooperation and the potential for applying Skoda Groups expertise in modern technologies in Azerbaijan. Canadian firm Silvercorp discusses investment prospects in Kazakhstans mining sector Photo: Kazakh Invest Canadian mining company Silvercorp Metals Inc. explored investment and cooperation opportunities in Kazakhstans mining sector during a visit to Astana. In talks with Kazakh Invest, the company expressed interest in geological exploration and sustainable mining of non-ferrous and precious metals, with plans to open a local office. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register KazMunayGas, Lukoil seal deal to support Kalamkas-Khazars local industry dev't Photo: KazMunayGas KazMunayGas (KMG) and Lukoil have approved the entry of Kalamkas-Khazar Operating LLP (KKO) into the International Center for Oil and Gas Machine Building Development (IMB Center). Established in 2021, the IMB Center unites major Kazakhstani oil and gas operators to support local industry development through standardization, knowledge sharing, and supply chain strengthening. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Chinese investors join East Kazakhstans ambitious natural gas project Photo: Regional administration of East Kazakhstan region The Akim of East Kazakhstan, Nurymbet Saktaganov, met with Chinese investors from Funde Holding Group to discuss a major natural gas production project in the Zaisan district. The planned $2 billion investment aims to create over 1,000 jobs and boost the regions energy capacity. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Photo: social media of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Vienna ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, July 23. Turkmenistan is preparing to send a high-level delegation to the 69th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Trend reports via the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Vienna. The issue was discussed during a meeting in Vienna between Turkmenistans Permanent Representative to the IAEA and Ambassador to Austria, Hemra Amannazarov, and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. The sides reviewed priority areas of cooperation, including Turkmenistans accession to the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the IAEA, and the development of the national IAEA Framework Program for 2025-2029. The upcoming Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), scheduled to take place in Avaza from August 5 to 8, 2025, was also discussed. Ambassador Amannazarov presented national preparations for the event, and Rafael Grossi confirmed the agencys high-level participation. BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 23. Turkmenistan has recently intensified its engagement with a number of international financial, economic, and transport institutions. Notably, on July 18, a meeting was held at the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN Office in Geneva with representatives of the International Trade Centre, during which the countrys accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO) was discussed. Although no official statements have yet been made regarding Turkmenistans potential WTO membership, the recent uptick in activity signals Ashgabats intention to integrate more closely into global economic mechanisms. In this context, Turkmenistans cooperation with other international structures - particularly the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) - is of growing interest. From the OECD, Turkmenistan primarily receives targeted support in trade policy analysis, regulatory reform, and competitiveness assessment. President Serdar Berdimuhamedovs deep understanding of the importance of international cooperation has enabled the country to effectively utilize this offered expertise. The OECD offers extensive expertise in these areas, using tools such as the Trade Facilitation Indicators and the Services Trade Restrictiveness Index, explained Gregory Lecomte, Senior Policy Analyst for Central Asia in the OECDs Global Relations and Cooperation Directorate, in an interview with Trend. This cooperation gives Turkmenistan access to advanced practices, capacity-building initiatives, and constructive policy dialogue, enabling it to pursue reforms that are data-driven and aligned with international standards. Under the confident and dynamic leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the country is systematically reforming state institutions, strengthening transparency and interagency coordination, and fostering dialogue between the government and the private sector. These measures not only improve efficiency but also enhance the resilience of the trade and economic system, reinforcing its political and economic foundations. Alongside deep institutional reforms, Turkmenistan continues to implement large-scale transport and logistics infrastructure projects. Thanks to the Presidents strategic vision, these projects have become a cornerstone of the countrys international competitiveness. As emphasized by the OECD, modern and integrated infrastructure is the cornerstone of competitiveness. Special attention is given to the development of transport connectivity along the Trans-Caspian route, a key element of the Presidents foreign economic policy. Investment in the modernization of roads, rail junctions, and port facilities not only reduces external trade costs but also strategically expands access to international markets, strengthening Turkmenistans global influence. The OECDs system of economic corridor indicators, which includes the Trans-Caspian route, reflects the positive changes underway in Turkmenistan. This represents an objective recognition of the effectiveness and foresight of President Berdimuhamedovs economic strategy and reinforces the countrys role as a key player in Eurasian logistics chains. Turkmenistan is actively engaged in regional OECD platforms such as the Eurasia Competitiveness Programme. This platform facilitates experience-sharing on investment policy, private sector development, and trade facilitation, Lecomte noted, further underscoring the governments commitment to shaping the regional economic agenda. In addition to macro-level work, the OECD also employs a localized approach through business surveys, government consultations, and field missions. In its 2023 report on the Middle Corridor, Turkmenistan is presented as a vital component of regional cooperation in both soft (institutional) and hard (infrastructure) connectivity. A comprehensive approach to modernization - from institutional reforms to major investment projects in transport - opens new opportunities for Turkmenistan to strengthen its role as a bridge between East and West. Deepening cooperation with the OECD reflects the countrys ambition for sustainable economic growth and expanded participation in global trade processes. Thanks to the focused policies of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan continues building a competitive trade ecosystem that combines modern institutional frameworks, developed infrastructure, and active international cooperation. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, July 23. Turkmenistan and San Marino have confirmed interest in strengthening cooperation within international organizations ahead of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), Trend reports via Turkmenistan's MFA. This was discussed during a telephone conversation between Turkmenistans Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and San Marinos Minister of Foreign Affairs, Political Affairs, International Economic Cooperation, and Digital Transition Luca Beccari. The ministers exchanged views on bilateral and multilateral interaction and reviewed key items on the LLDC3 agenda. Both sides reaffirmed their readiness to enhance collaboration in international formats. BUENOS AIRES, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The mayor of Reduccion, a town in central Argentina's Cordoba province, died Tuesday after his plane crashed, provincial authorities said. The aircraft carrying Jorge Grazziano, the mayor, crashed into a field between Villa Mercedes and Justo Daract in San Luis, about 700 km northwest of the capital Buenos Aires. Martin Llaryora, governor of Cordoba, expressed his "heartfelt condolences to the family and friends" of the victim. "I also extend my warmest greetings to his entire community, the one for which Jorge worked with tireless commitment and dedication. He will be remembered for his dedication to public service, for his constant drive for the development of Reduccion, and for his firm commitment to the progress of the south of the province," the governor said. Civil Defense, firefighters, and the provincial police took part in the assistance operation, securing the perimeter to facilitate the necessary investigations. A federal court intervened in the case, with the aim of determining the circumstances that led to the crash. AMMAN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Jordan has sent its fourth humanitarian aid convoy to northern Gaza, the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization said in a statement on Wednesday. The latest convoy, comprising 36 trucks loaded with food supplies, entered Gaza on Tuesday via the Zikim crossing between Israel and the enclave. The operation was carried out in cooperation with the Jordan Armed Forces (JAF) and the World Central Kitchen. The delivery comes as Gaza faces increasingly dire humanitarian conditions due to continued hostilities and severe disruptions in supply chains. Since last week, Jordan has organized four aid convoys to Gaza with international relief agencies and the JAF. These convoys, mainly carrying essential food items such as flour, have included a total of 147 trucks -- 111 coordinated with the World Food Program and 36 with the World Central Kitchen. Jordan is preparing additional shipments, with assurances that the aid will reach and be distributed to those in need. ANKARA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian interim government has requested Turkiye's assistance to strengthen its defense capabilities in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) and other terrorist groups, Turkiye's semi-official Anadolu Agency reported on Wednesday, citing unnamed sources from the Turkish Defense Ministry. "In response to this request, our efforts to provide support in the form of training, consultation, and technical aid are ongoing," the ministry's officials told Anadolu following a weekly press briefing. The sources also reaffirmed Turkiye's commitment to Syria's territorial integrity, regional stability, and the fight against terrorism. "Turkiye's top priority is to support Syria's political unity and territorial integrity and to lead efforts toward achieving lasting peace in the region," the sources added. There has been no official comment from the Syrian interim government regarding the reported request. Turkiye, a key supporter of the Syrian interim government, has established a significant military footprint across northern Syria since 2016 through cross-border operations aimed at pushing back the People's Protection Units, a Syrian Kurdish military force. Small-business owners will have the opportunity to give short pitch presentations about their businesses and raise awareness about their offerings during the Small Business Showcase Tuesday, Aug. 19. P.J. Burns and small-business owners will head the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network event from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Wyoming Room of the Campbell County Public Library, located at 2101 S. 4-J Road in Gillette. The event is co-sponsored by Wyoming Library to Business and the Campbell County Public Library. Businesses interested in presenting must register with the Wyoming SBDC Network and email Burns at pj.burns@uwyo.edu by 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11. Presenters will be provided a 30-minute training and a PowerPoint pitch deck template. The event will provide one business presentation per industry. To register, go here. Registration is free, and the public is invited. Light refreshments and drinks will be provided. The Wyoming SBDC Network offers business expertise to help Wyoming residents think about, launch, grow, reinvent or exit their business. The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by the University of Wyoming with state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. During the Small Business Showcase, local small-business owners will have the opportunity to make pitches; share their business and passion with an audience; and get to know their business neighbors. Burns is the Wyoming SBDC Networks regional director for Campbell, Crook, Johnson, Sheridan and Weston counties. She has spent the majority of her career advising and advocating for small businesses in her roles at chambers of commerce and economic development organizations. She has a background in marketing, human resources, strategic planning, leadership and management. For more information, call Burns at (307) 682-5232 or email pj.burns@uwyo.edu. The Wyoming Business Alliance (WBA), the Wyoming Community College Commission (WCCC) and the University of Wyoming have formed a new partnership aimed at enhancing opportunities for student internships and other forms of hands-on learning with Wyoming businesses and industry partners. The partnership aims to build networks and establish lasting and meaningful relationships between Wyoming businesses and students at UW and community colleges that can increase the likelihood of keeping skilled UW graduates in Wyoming to meet critical workforce needs. A lack of talented workers is holding back economic growth in Wyoming. I am so pleased that UW and the community colleges are focused on trying to support Wyoming employers and provide this valuable experience for students, says Renny MacKay, president of the WBA. Developing skilled graduates to enter Wyomings dynamic workforce is a core part of our mission as Wyomings only university, UW President Ed Seidel says. We are thrilled to enhance our partnerships with WBA and WCCC to ensure that Wyomings students and businesses can continue to thrive. Wyomings community colleges are uniquely positioned to partner with the business community to place students in internships and hands-on learning experiences, because they are training students in programs that feed directly into the states economy, says Paige Fenton Hughes, interim executive director of the WCCC. Working with the Wyoming Business Alliance and the University of Wyoming helps expand opportunities for students and support employers across the state. Specific goals of the partnership: -- Increase the number of internships between WBA members and students enrolled in Wyomings community colleges and the university. -- Increase the number of hands-on learning opportunities between WBA members and those students. -- Retain talent within Wyoming. -- Support the growth of Wyoming businesses and organizations by helping to develop a pipeline of talent. Key components of the initiative: -- Directly advance WBA goals to support an educational system that provides students with the real-world skills they need to work and thrive in Wyoming. -- Support the goals of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership by aligning education, workforce development and industry through the power of internships and hands-on learning. -- Create and enhance mutually beneficial connections among Wyomings higher education institutions, business and industry partners that provide a unique opportunity to directly involve, engage and invest students in future employment opportunities across the state -- and link them to the success of their local communities. Tools UW, the WBA and WCCC will use to carry out this partnership: -- Conduct a participation and needs assessment to understand current participation numbers and potential barriers to internship and experimental learning opportunities, with the aim to reduce those barriers. -- Partner on resources to support both employers and students in maximizing the value of internships and hands-on learning. -- Establish a WBA committee on workforce recruitment and retention that will include focus on this partnership to evaluate and enhance its impact. -- Create mechanisms to track participation in internship and hands-on learning programs, including data on location, academic focus and compensation. About the Wyoming Business Alliance The Wyoming Business Alliance is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing Wyomings economic growth and competitiveness. By representing all sectors of the states economy, the WBA fosters collaboration among businesses, government and communities to address key challenges and seize opportunities for a stronger Wyoming. MOSCOW, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Russia and Ukraine are expected to hold a third round of direct negotiations this week, focusing on draft memoranda on resolving the conflict, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said at a news briefing on Tuesday. "We hope that the talks between Russia and Ukraine will be held this week," Peskov said. "We will announce the dates as soon as we are ready." Regarding the potential outcomes of the new round of talks, Peskov stated that "we have no reason to expect any magical breakthroughs, which are hardly likely in the current situation." On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the next meeting of Russian and Ukrainian delegations is scheduled for July 23, with Istanbul remaining the venue for the talks. A source from TASS news agency said that the third round of talks would be held on July 24, a day later. Zelensky ordered the formation of a delegation to negotiate with Russia, led once again by Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, according to his Telegram channel. Zelensky said the delegation will also include representatives from his office, Ukrainian intelligence and the foreign ministry. In 2022, Zelensky implemented a decision by the National Security and Defense Council, which prohibited members of his government from having direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Peskov said both sides had to lay the groundwork before meetings at the highest levels could begin. Following the two rounds of talks in Istanbul, Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange prisoners based on the "1,000 for 1,000" formula as well as to return severely injured and young servicemen under 25 in an "all for all" format, with at least 1,000 people from each side. During the second round of negotiations on June 2, the two sides exchanged draft memoranda outlining proposals for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and reached agreements on the exchange of severely injured prisoners of war and the repatriation of fallen soldiers. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. A staff member works at the restoration site of a brick tower of Pre Rup temple in Siem Reap province, Cambodia on July 16, 2025. Archaeologists have been restoring two ruined brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Cambodia's famed Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on July 23. (ANA/Handout via Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Archaeologists have been restoring two ruined brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Cambodia's famed Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on Wednesday. So Pot, an ANA archaeologist and architect in charge of the restoration project, said work on brick towers No. 11 and No. 12 marked the first phase of the project, which aimed at reinforcing these structures. "This effort follows an assessment of the towers, which revealed significant issues such as cracks in the brick walls, vegetation growth, and water infiltration that threaten the temple's integrity," he said. Pot said the restoration of the towers' foundation is being prioritized, with approximately 30 percent of the work completed since it began in mid-May 2025. The project is expected to wrap up by the end of 2025, he added. Pre Rup Temple, a significant historical site built by King Rajendravarman II in 961 A.D., features a total of 33 towers, according to the news release. It is one of the temples in the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Cambodia's Siem Reap province. This photo taken on July 16, 2025 shows the restoration site of brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Siem Reap province, Cambodia. Archaeologists have been restoring two ruined brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Cambodia's famed Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on July 23. (ANA/Handout via Xinhua) Staff members work at the restoration site of a brick tower of Pre Rup temple in Siem Reap province, Cambodia on July 16, 2025. Archaeologists have been restoring two ruined brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Cambodia's famed Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on July 23. (ANA/Handout via Xinhua) This photo taken on July 16, 2025 shows the restoration site of brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Siem Reap province, Cambodia. Archaeologists have been restoring two ruined brick towers of Pre Rup temple in Cambodia's famed Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on July 23. (ANA/Handout via Xinhua) Opposition demand explanation from Meloni government as Salvini recognised by Israel for "courageous" positions. Italian deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini received the Italy-Israel Award at the chamber of deputies in Rome on Tuesday, sparking an outcry from opposition centre-left parties. Salvini, leader of the right-wing Lega party and transport minister, was presented with the award by a network of organisations including the Milton Friedman Institute, the Union of Italy-Israel Associations, Maccabi World Union, Israel's Defend & Security Forum, and the Alliance for Israel. The associations recognised Salvini as "Israel's best friend in Italy", while Israel's ambassador in Rome, Jonathan Peled, praised the deputy premier for having had "the courage to publicly take courageous and often disruptive positions". "If anyone deserves recognition for his efforts to strengthen the strategic bond between Italy and Israel, it is Matteo Salvini" - Peled said during the award ceremony - "Today, more than ever, there is a particular need for it. After the 7 October 7 massacre, Salvini and the Lega have always shown us deep support and solidarity. During these painful months, Matteo has always opened the doors of his ministry to us." During a trip to Israel in February, Salvini met with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Salvini said he was "honoured" by the award - which came the morning after Israeli tanks opened fire on a refugee camp in the Gaza Strip - admitting that the recognition was "awkward". "A ceasefire can be reached tomorrow morning," Salvini said. "How? By returning the hostages. The choice is Hamas's alone," the minister said, adding that it is unacceptable and "crazy" to equate "a democratic entity with a terrorist organisation." The deputy prime minister's comments on the truce clash with the Italian government's decision to sign, along with 27 other countries, a statement on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza. The joint statement condemns Netanyahu's government for the "the inhumane killing of civilians, including children" and Israel's "unacceptable" refusal to "provide essential humanitarian assistance" to the people in Gaza. Backlash Shortly the award ceremony, protests erupted from the centre-left Partito Democratico (PD) and Movimento 5 Stelle (M5S) and the Green and Left Alliance (AVS). The award also drew criticism from the parliamentary intergroup for Peace between Israel and Palestine, coordinated by M5S politician Stefania Ascari. "Matteo Salvini did not hesitate to shake the bloody hand of Benjamin Netanyahu, a figure held responsible for war crimes and grave abuses against the civilian population in the Gaza Strip and the occupied territories," a statement from the group read. "Receiving an award in this context is not a merit, but a disgrace. And it is extremely serious that this should happen in a room of the chamber of deputies, an institutional body that represents all Italians." Arturo Scotto (PD) also slammed the award. "In this place where law should prevail over arrogance, reason over the madness of weapons, the cohesion of a new peaceful coexistence over the logic of the geopolitics of chaos, today the chamber was violated" - Scotto said - "What does Italy intend to do in the face of the daily horror in Gaza?" "We would like to know why Israel isn't being severely sanctioned, and we would also like to know about Salvini's presence at the Italy-Israel Award" - said M5S parliamentary group leader Riccardo Ricciardi - "We have people who commit unbearable crimes every day and starve children. Yet, the deputy prime minister goes to receive awards from them". In a post on X, Angelo Bonelli, spokesperson for Europa Verde, blasted the "obscene" award ceremony, describing it as "an insult to truth, human rights, and civil conscience". China is widely recognized as one of the safest countries in the world, a senior Chinese public security official said Wednesday when talking about achievements in the public security sector during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). #XinhuaNews Ryan Dunne A Central Criminal Court judge has criticised the delay in preparing a psychiatric assessment on a Somalian national accused of the murder of his former partner Mary Ward in Belfast last year. "I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice Paul McDermott, asking both the prosecution and defence teams to establish a timeframe in the case of Ahmed Abdirahman (31). Mr Abdirahman, originally from Somalia and with a last address at Kinlay house, 4 Lord Edward Street, Dublin, is accused of murdering the young mother on September 25th, 2024, at her house on Melrose Street in south Belfast. At the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday, counsel for the State, Antonia Boyle BL said that the book of evidence had not yet been served on the accused due to mental health concerns. The court heard from the defence team that the accused is waiting to be admitted to the Central Mental Hospital, and he has failed to engage with a psychiatrist who attempted to see him. Defence counsel also told the court that there is a jurisdictional issue in the case, as the alleged offence occurred in Northern Ireland, meaning the accused must be given the option to be tried there. Mr Justice McDermott noted that there was still no diagnosis of the accused, so there was no understanding if he was fit to plead or not. He said that he wanted both the defence and the prosecution to contact the Central Mental Hospital to establish a timeframe as to when the issues will be resolved. "There has to be some response. I understand the Central Mental Hospital has a resources issue, but this impasse has to be broken by somebody. This cant go on, said Mr Justice McDermott. The matter was put back to July 30th. A Wexford woman has pleaded guilty to four counts of theft from shops in Waterford, which included the taking of a customer's phone. Charlotte Conway, (19) of Dunmaine House, Campile, Wexford, pleaded guilty to four counts of theft between January and May 2025, at a sitting of Waterford District Court before Judge John Cheatle. The court heard that in relation to one theft, the taking of an iPhone on January 6, the injured party left her handbag. An anonymous person returned it to the Lidl store on Dunmore Road, but when the injured party went to retrieve it, she was told it had been returned to an individual whom the staff believed it belonged to. The bag was located, but the phone was not in it. Judge Cheatle asked if the phone had ever been found, as it may contain precious memories. The solicitor acting for the defendant, Ken Cunningham, confirmed it had not and said he did ask about its location. He said his client had addiction issues at the time of the offence. Judge Cheatle put the matter back to October for the preparation of a probation report and victim impact statement. A woman has been given a chance to avoid a conviction for theft if she reimburses the shop and makes a donation to the court poor box. Laila McCabe (22), OConnell Street, Waterford, was before Judge John Cheatle at Waterford District Court, charged with the theft of 117 worth of jewellery and lingerie from TK Maxx, Poleberry, on March 24, 2025. The court was told that the defendant had three previous convictions but none for theft. Acting for the defendant, solicitor Ken Cunningham told the court that the offence was committed with another person. He said his client is working in hospitality. Sergeant John Phelan told the court that the items were not recovered and TK Maxx remain at a loss. Judge Cheatle said if the store was reimbursed, he would be inclined to strike the matter out. He ordered the defendant to pay the 117 to TK Maxx by October 14 and to make a 50 donation to the court poor box. In the aftermath of the July 2 airport meeting, Waterfords Government TDs rushed to assure constituents that the process of extending the airports runway is taking shape. Fine Gael Minister for State for Local Government and Planning John Cummins told the Waterford News and Star that compiling the necessary information was already in the works. Fianna Fails Chief Whip Minister Mary Butler told WLR that they now know what information the Department of Transport are looking for. Its in hand, they said. Many of you scoffed at the idea of a shape taking form, but as you can see this week, from a series of Parliamentary Questions submitted by Waterford Sinn Fein TD David Cullinane, a circle is emerging. Dont you feel silly. In the Minister for Transport Darragh OBriens response to those PQs, we learned that an initial appraisal of the airports Project Outline Document (or whatever you want to call it) has been completed and clarifications sought. The Minister also provided an outline of what happened over the past year and a bit, and we learned that this is where the project was at in February 2024. At that time, the Project Outline Document was being called Waterford Airports Development Proposal. Or business case, in short, if not reality, because developing that is supposedly the current goal of all of these clarifications. We also know that in all the faffing around, the cost of extending the runway has gone from 12 million to 27 million. Now, the government is not being asked to pay all of that, but the taxpayer is being asked to foot a bill considerably higher in 2025 than it was when the project was first proposed in 2018. Value for money indeed. Meanwhile, this week Waterfords Sinn Fein TDs staged a protest on John Roberts Square. Around 80 people (plus seven Waterford Says No protesters) showed up. The protest was contentious online in its lead-up, with former Waterford TD Matt Shanahan calling out Sinn Fein for not doing enough. He wanted them to force a debate in the Dail-because the last one went so well (Google Waterford Airport pig-in-a poke for more information). The Sinn Fein TDs told the Waterford News and Star say they are doing their bit, and anyone else who wants to help is more than welcome to organise their own events. Nobody was really sure on Friday evening what Waterford Says No was doing, but it appeared to be something about gender and snakes. If we had to sum it all up and inject some positivity, I suppose you could say with every effort made, we chip away at the issue. Every PQ and Dail debate, to be fair, yields more information. How valuable that information is, is up to you. But if you are confused at this point, its probably because you are supposed to be. Countries besieged by the effects of climate change can legally pursue their neighbours for reparations if they fail to uphold their obligations to curb global emissions, in a ruling that could have far-reaching implications for fossil fuel-exporting nations such as Australia. The International Court of Justice handed down the historic advisory ruling, paving the way for massive compensation claims in a case brought by a group of law students from Vanuatu. In a win for low-lying Pacific nations, the International Court of Justice found countries are obligated to act on climate change. Credit: Getty Images In a case that drew unprecedented international involvement, including from 96 states and 11 international organisations, The Hague-based courts advisory opinion found countries were bound to uphold international treaties such as the Paris Agreement, a commitment to prevent global temperatures from rising 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels. Failure of a State to take appropriate action to protect the climate system from greenhouse gas emissions including through fossil fuel production, fossil fuel consumption, the granting of fossil fuel exploration licences or the provision of fossil fuel subsidies may constitute an internationally wrongful act which is attributable to that State, the ruling said. Advertisement Tips & adviceWine The verdict on the new Grange is in, but its $1000. Should you splash the cash? Good Food wine writer Katie Spain says it has the aromatic magic of a misty autumn morning, but there are impressive, and more affordable, alternatives available. Katie Spain July 24, 2025 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share When Penfolds releases its anticipated 2025 Collection on August 7, fine wine collectors around the globe will start to wonder if its biggest star, the coveted 2021 Grange, is worth forking out for. The multi-regional, multi-vineyard South Australian red is one of the most collectable wines in the world, and the 2021 has a price tag of $1000. The magical 2021 Grange. So, is it worth the big bucks? The answer is maybe, but it depends on how much patience you possess. If you dont mind holding on to it for a couple of decades and then selling it, the return on investment could prove fruitful. The first Penfolds Grange vintage was 1951 and has been known to fetch more than $150,000 at auction. A full set of Penfolds Bin Grange from the 1951 to 2018 vintages fetched a record $430,000 at the Penfolds Rewards of Patience Auction hosted by Langtons in 2022. Advertisement Penfolds chief winemaker Peter Gago. We dont have to wordsmith the success of Grange; its just something that happens, says Penfolds chief winemaker, Peter Gago. I did a tasting in Napa, California, for someone from one of the top two or three [wine] magazines, and a tear was shed for the 2021 Grange. As far as non-verbal feedback goes, you dont get much better than that. If youre feeling frivolous or financially flush, you could, of course, just drink it. The new-release 2021 Grange is a stunning drop, with all the aromatic magic of a misty autumn morning. The medley of black fruit from vineyards in the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Clare Valley finishes bright and crunchy, with crochet-like tannin. The new-release 2021 Grange is a stunning drop, with all the aromatic magic of a misty autumn morning. Im a fan, but I cant afford it. Fortunately, there are more affordable options out there for wannabe collectors. Advertisement The 2025 Penfolds Collection includes a line-up of 24 wines from Australia, the US, France and China. While its not exactly cheap, the 2022 St Henri Shiraz, at $135, is a wise buy. The wine has a cult following, particularly in America and France. The 2022 St Henri Shiraz has serious wow factor. The 2022 St Henri wow, what a wine, says Gago. St Henri is a wine that hasnt received kudos via show results because its never been entered. Its the antithesis of a show wine. Its not cheap, but its not ridiculously out-of-reach either. From a collectors perspective, you cant go past St Henri, but not every year, so cherry-pick the vintages. Penfolds keeps on producing sensational red wines. Another hot tip is the 2023 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz for $120. The wine, made from fruit from South Australias McLaren Vale, Padthaway and Barossa Valley wine regions, was first made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert and was often referred to as baby Grange because components of the wine are matured in barrels that held the previous Grange vintage. Advertisement The 2023 Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz, aka baby Grange. Theres never really been a lesser vintage of the 389, its just that some are better than others, Gago says. Again, cherry-pick the 389 vintages. Even today, you can buy the 1971, 1976, 1986 and 90 at auctions and some wine stores. The 1990 Bin 389 is doing silly things in the secondary market. Will that happen for the 2023? Time will tell. Thats the excitement factor from a wine collectability perspective it seduces billionaires, it seduces mums and dads, and it seduces young people who are often self-taught, like I was. You go on a journey when you can buy more than one bottle. Big isnt always better Advertisement According to Ian Desmond, fine wine editor at Langtons, lighter, cool-climate wines are becoming more dominant in the investing and collecting space. These cool-climate wines included pinot noir from Tasmania and chardonnay from the Macedon Ranges, which demonstrates a growing demand at the higher end for lighter wines with elegance and vibrancy. This is partly due to peoples growing interest in more elegant, vibrant wines and a willingness to branch out to try new styles, varieties and regions. These wines can also come with a more approachable price tag compared with the cult-status wines of Penfolds Grange and Rockford Basket Press, says Desmond. For example, chardonnay and pinot from Tasmanias Tolpuddle sit at about $100 a bottle, while Bindi Quartz Chardonnay from the Macedon Ranges is priced between $100 and $150 a bottle, and the Paringa Estate Pinot Noir from the Mornington Peninsula is about $70 a bottle. Advertisement All these wines have great potential and, if patient, can be a strong entry into an investment and cellaring journey. Katie Spains top Penfolds picks Penfolds 2023 Bin 150 Marananga Shiraz, $100 Marananga is a special place and what goes into the Bin 150 is often relegated Grange material. This wine exudes presence and ironstone grit. I love the pirouette of dried oregano and piercing red fruit. Rich and pretty. Penfolds 2022 St Henri Shiraz, $135 The Penfolds St Henri 2022 Shiraz is a ripper. Its got all the dark, moody beauty of a storm brewing, like rain clouds full of promise over a drought-beaten landscape. Aromatically, theres attitude to match. A tumble of dark berries, a hit of coffee, waves of lush fruit and an assertive tannin handshake round it off. Buy a couple of bottles and hide them away until youve got a few dozen extra candles on your birthday cake. Penfolds 2023 Yattarna Chardonnay, $220 Theres energy, tension, oak in check, and a mouth-watering finish. All hail pert Tumbarumba, Adelaide Hills and Tassie chardonnay. A fancy dinner party winner. The wines of The Penfolds Collection 2025 will be available globally from August 7, 2025. For more information, visit penfolds.com. Related Article Winters best wines for $30 or less (including Aldis astounding reds under $15) The best recipes from Australia's leading chefs straight to your inbox. Sign up Torrie was 26 and the kind of person who would walk into a room and light it up. He had a contagious energy. Losing our dad to suicide at a young age, Torrie became close to Mum and all four siblings, particularly me, as we were the babies of the family. He was living with his partner, their infant son and newborn baby girl. He also had an older daughter. Torrie loved being a dad and had big plans for the future. The last time I saw Torrie was at Mums house, the night before he was reported missing. Torrie was happy. He told me about a spearfishing trip he was going on the next day. The following evening, I was at Mums again, and the police knocked on the door. They told us that his colleague had reported him missing that he did not resurface. We posted on social media, asking if anyone had seen Torrie out there on the waters. We messaged friends and family, tried calling Torries phone and his colleague. We had a million questions. We searched Sudbury Reef [near Cairns], his last known location. His close friends and family helped with the search, trying to work out every possibility of what could have happened. We had faith in him; he was a strong swimmer, and we thought he could have made it to land. We tried to stay positive. The police called the search off after two days; they didnt provide a reason why, so, with the help of the Cairns community, we continued actively searching for about two months. We didnt give up. Because Torrie didnt have a voice, it was important that as his family, we were his voice. Genny Tabuai, whose brother, Torrance Sambo, is missing There was a lack of transparency from the police right from the start. We were chasing them quite a lot, and we were only ever given limited information. Because Torrie didnt have a voice, it was important that as his family, we were his voice. But we werent heard, and our needs werent met, which over the past four years has left us angry and frustrated. Torries oldest daughter spends a lot of time with our mob, and she asks questions about him. We keep his memory alive and tell her about his favourite songs, share his jokes, videos and photos. When we were looking for him, some friends found an injured turtle that was taken to a rehabilitation centre near Sudbury Reef. They named him Torrie. This is now his eldest daughters favourite animal, a symbol for her dad. For me, it is knowing the unknown thats the hardest part the questions that dont have answers. I just want to bring him home. He would never abandon his family: Stephenie Fielding, 53 Stephenies brother, Rigby, went missing 10 years ago Stephenie Fieldings brother, Rigby, went missing 10 years ago, despite telling family he was heading home to them. Rigby was a retired chef who had recently returned home to Rockingham [WA] to live and take care of our mum, who had cancer, and our younger sister Tina, who has Down syndrome. He had a magnetic personality. He was incredibly kind, full of humour, and outrageously unique in the way he saw and experienced the world. At the time he went missing, his life was calm. He was surrounded by family, reconnecting with old friends, and enjoying the simple pleasures of being home after years abroad. Rigby and I were very close. I last saw Rigby on August 12, 2015. That day felt perfectly normal we laughed, reminisced, and he seemed in good spirits. I dropped him off at a friends house. I was told that as a 53-year-old man, Rigby had the right to go missing I strongly disagreed, knowing he would never abandon his family. Stephenie Fielding, whose brother disappeared 10 years ago Over the next few days, he stayed in touch. He messaged family on August 14 and visited a friend in East Perth that evening. On August 15 at 3pm, he called our mum from Perth and said he was heading back to Rockingham. That was the last confirmed contact we had with him. I formally reported Rigby missing on September 4. I explained to police that this was completely out of character he hadnt responded to messages, he hadnt returned home, and he hadnt collected essential medication for a neurological condition. I was told that as a 53-year-old man, Rigby had the right to go missing if he wished. I strongly disagreed, knowing he would never abandon his family. It was an incredibly frustrating and painful process. In those early days, there was a constant, exhausting urgency. Every message or lead felt like it could be the breakthrough we needed. I clung to hope while navigating an overwhelming sense of helplessness. As time passed, the uncertainty became unbearable. It has affected every part of my life. The grief isnt clean or linear; its open-ended, unforgiving, without closure. Every day, your mind cycles through possibilities, hoping for something that might make sense of it all. Its the silence and the absence that weigh the heaviest and knowing that someone knows what really happened and isnt coming forward. The reality that we still dont know what happened to Rigby has become harder to bear. A $500,000 reward gives me hope that someone may finally come forward with information. We just want answers. We want to bring him home. I still have nightmares: Kellie Moody, 55 Kellie Moodys son Jack McLennan vanished last year. Kellie hasnt seen her son Jack McLennan, 27, since last year Jack always had a smile. He came across as larger than life with fierce determination. He was a lively, spirited and cheerful 27-year-old. At the time of his disappearance, Jack was a builders labourer; he was very fit and enjoying his job. Jack and I were besties, and we were both overprotective of one another because, for 10 years, he was my only baby until his sister, Sydney, arrived. On October 3, we had a long chat about him and his girlfriend, Carlee, breaking up. Jack was going to collect his belongings from the home they shared the following day and come back home to live. He was also a little down over the break-up, but he was not depressed. I saw Jack on the morning of October 4 when I was leaving and said Id see him later. Our last call was at 9pm, and he said he was going to stay at a colleagues house. I offered to pick him up, and that sticks with me. I wish I had. Loading The following day, I got a call that Jack hadnt picked up his car. My immediate reaction was total fear. I reported Jack missing to Broadbeach police station that afternoon, and they acted quickly, searching for a few weeks with the SES, finding his hat, wallet and shoes, but then they stopped the search. Our family and friends also searched the thick bush. I called out to him in case he was hurt. I hated being in the bush, but I had to find my son. I was in flight or fight mode. After Jack went missing, I began having nightmares, waking up screaming and not having much sleep. I still have them. International Coalition Launches to Protect Children from WHO Sexualization Agenda An unprecedented global alliance of parental rights and child protection organizations from Ireland, Wales, Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond has been formed to counter the World Health Organization's Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) framework, which members argue threatens the innocence and healthy development of children worldwide. NEWS PROVIDED BY International Coalition4Children July 23, 2025 TUMBY BAY, SA, Australia, July 23, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ -- The newly launched International Coalition4Children brings together grassroots leaders, educators, and advocates united in a common mission: to protect childhood, uphold parental rights, and restore the role of the natural family in raising and educating the next generation. "Children only get one childhood it's their human right to grow, go through puberty, accept themselves as they were born, and enter adulthood with their fertility intact. Schools must educate minds, not sexualize children or indoctrinate beliefs," said Jana Lunden, spokesperson for the Natural Womens Council in Ireland. The World Health Organization and aligned UN agencies have promoted a model of education that critics say undermines biological reality, parental authority, and moral frameworks by introducing sexual concepts to children at increasingly younger ages. "Children face unprecedented challenges to their healthy development," said Kimberley Isherwood of Child Protection Wales."Our international coalition provides a unified response and protective framework for children everywhere. It is fair to say, it's been a long time coming!" The coalition rejects the WHOs global Comprehensive Sexuality Education guidelines and instead promotes policies rooted in biology, parental rights, national sovereignty, and traditional moral values. "Action4Canada stands firmly to defend the innocence of children and the sanctity of the natural family as the foundation of a healthy society," stated Tanya Gaw, founder of Action4Canada."We resolutely oppose the UN's Comprehensive Sexuality Education and any global effort to sexualize, confuse, or indoctrinate our youth. Today, we take that stand to the international stage as a proud member of the International Coalition4Children. Together with our worldwide allies, we are united in the battle to protect childhood and restore the role of the family in raising and educating the next generation based on biblical principles, truth, morality, biology, and common sense." The coalition intends to equip parents, engage lawmakers, and launch coordinated campaigns to hold global institutions accountable for policies that undermine children's physical, emotional, and moral development. "We are linking arms across the world to stand in the gap for our children, to protect them from the relentless indoctrination being forced down their throats," said Rachel Read, Director of the International Coalition4Children, based in Australia. "We will no longer sit and watch but actively engage in this space to bring back health, life, and restored values to this generation and the ones to come. The future depends on it." For more information or to connect with coalition members, visit: https://internationalcoalition4children.org/ Media Contact: Director of International Coalition4Children Rachel Read Email: rachelread79@hotmail.com Phone: +61 416890780 SOURCE International Coalition4Children Mark Aylwin Thomas, nephew of late George Hogg, gives a speech commemorating George Hogg in Harpenden, Britain, July 22, 2025. An exhibition commemorating George Hogg, a British journalist who dedicated his life to supporting China's war against Japanese aggression decades ago, kicked off here Tuesday.(Xinhua/Wu Lu) HARPENDEN, Britain, July 22 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition commemorating George Hogg, a British journalist who dedicated his life to supporting China's war against Japanese aggression decades ago, kicked off Tuesday in Harpenden, a town in Hertfordshire County of England. "George Hogg became a true friend, noble and wise friend of China," said Mark Aylwin Thomas, nephew of the late Hogg and author of the biography "Blades of Grass: The Story of George Aylwin Hogg." The exhibition would help more students learn about this part of China's history during the World Anti-Fascist War, said Tim Fleming, chief operating officer of St. George's School, Hogg's alma mater. The school's motto, aiming higher, might well have inspired Hogg in his university studies and later heroic experiences in China, said Fleming. "He (Hogg) was an incredible young man who achieved a great deal in a tragically short life. But the way in which the Chinese revealed his memory brought it home to us what an important figure he is," said David Kendall, trustee of the Harpenden History Society. After travelling to China to trace Hogg's life, Kendall decided to organize this special exhibition to "educate the people in England and particularly in Harpenden about George Hogg's achievements in China." Tuesday also marked the 80th anniversary of Hogg's death. According to the Harpenden History Society, Hogg's global tour after graduation led him to China during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and he "assimilated with the local people, sharing their hardships, but writing home or writing for newspapers, and stayed (in China) for the last seven years of his life." One of Hogg's most remarkable acts was saving the lives of 60 children by leading them out of a war zone and trekking with them 700 miles to the edge of the Gobi Desert, where he re-established their school in a safer location. People visit an exhibition commemorating George Hogg in Harpenden, Britain, July 22, 2025. An exhibition commemorating George Hogg, a British journalist who dedicated his life to supporting China's war against Japanese aggression decades ago, kicked off here Tuesday.(Xinhua/Wu Lu) Mark Aylwin Thomas, nephew of late George Hogg, visits an exhibition commemorating George Hogg in Harpenden, Britain, July 22, 2025. An exhibition commemorating George Hogg, a British journalist who dedicated his life to supporting China's war against Japanese aggression decades ago, kicked off here Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wu Lu) People visit an exhibition commemorating George Hogg in Harpenden, Britain, July 22, 2025. An exhibition commemorating George Hogg, a British journalist who dedicated his life to supporting China's war against Japanese aggression decades ago, kicked off here Tuesday.(Xinhua/Wu Lu) I would love you to go to your union and have this company dealt with for breaching their legal obligations, but that is easy for me to say. I imagine it wouldnt be an easy thing to do. One thing I do suggest you do, though, is test whether your fear about being seen as a troublemaker is accurate. Ask some of your trusted colleagues I think you might be nicely surprised that a giant proportion of your colleagues and other employers will support your stance. I am seething with rage for you and anyone else having to deal with employers who are blatantly breaching the law, let alone robbing a regional location of a fabulous new member of their community. I was recently told by a potential employer that they had turned down my application because they were concerned my lifestyle (Im gay) wouldnt be a fit with their regional location. I know this is discrimination, but Im worried that raising a union complaint could mark me as a troublemaker and block me from other possible roles. How do I educate this company not to put other workers through this, without burning bridges? In terms of educating this company without burning bridges, you are well within your rights to put your concerns in writing to them. Point out what was said to you and how they are breaching the law. Find out what their company values are from their website and perhaps also point out how they are breaching those too. They should be informed in no uncertain terms that this behaviour should never happen again. Take care, and I hope you find an employer to work with in your preferred region soon. They will be fortunate to have you. Loading I have a female manager who is efficient but who cannot take feedback. Any male peer, and even her male manager, who has tried to give her feedback has been accused of mansplaining. She will often come to some of her team members and tell us about these incidents. Sometimes we know that the feedback provided is correct, but none of us have the guts to say it because we know that either she will start micromanaging us or will accuse us of mansplaining too. How can you provide feedback to a manager like this without upsetting them? Weaponising the term mansplaining is not helpful to anyone, although it sounds like your manager is unlikely to be open to any kind of feedback, regardless of the gender of the person who offers it. Her boss is best placed to address this, and may need to engage someone else to assist him. Meanwhile, the best way to provide feedback to someone who tends to get defensive is to enter every conversation with curiosity use questions to understand, rather than sounding like you are judging them. Instead of focusing on what is being done wrong, use statements like I am curious about why we have decided to go with that approach. This is much more likely to lead to a collaborative conversation than saying I dont think this is the right approach and heres why 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 Private Matthew Clarke had been deployed to Afghanistan for less than three weeks when an IED exploded under the armoured personnel carrier a Bushmaster nicknamed Debbie he was driving along a dry creek bed. The explosion broke 14 bones in his legs, ankles and feet. Another soldier was also badly wounded. Clarke was the first from his deployment in 2012 to be shipped home, but not the last: others would be killed or have limbs amputated. In uniform and wearing his medals on his first Anzac Day back home, Clarke was astonished when a woman stopped to ask him what medals he was wearing. Clarke replied he was one of 26,000 defence force personnel deployed to Afghanistan Australias longest war from 2001 to 2021. Yet, the woman was confused. Wed been there for nine or 10 years, but she only related medals to World War I or II, he said. When it opens in 2026, it is expected that a million visitors to the new Anzac Hall in the Australian War Memorial will be able to hear Clarke and fellow soldiers tell their stories, and see the battered Bushmaster on display in the new Afghanistan gallery that has been expanded from 60 square metres in the old hall to 700 square metres. Advertisement The crews unopened boxes of blue Gatorade (now filled with blue resin) can be seen on its roof racks with, among other objects, a makeshift sink. The Bushmaster damaged by an IED in Afghanistan in 2021. Credit: Matthew Clarke Ive never seen anything like that in a museum, Clarke told the Herald. In the late afternoon light of what will be a new peacekeeping gallery, the nose of a C-130 Hercules protrudes from a wall, as if it has plunged and crashed, a ghostly sight. But it is the F/A-18A Classic Hornet, A21-022, that is the star of the show, displayed under a large opening that allows visitors to view it from above. The Classic is an earlier model than the Super Hornet that starred in the movie Top Gun: Maverick. The F/A-18 Hornet in the Middle East Gallery, with pool noodles used as padding on the sharp edges. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Advertisement Shipped intact through Canberra by night, it was dropped into place in one piece using a 150-square-metre lift pit, an innovation designed for the project. The Hornet may have survived 6000 flying hours over Iraq and Syria in patrol and combat missions, but it is now wrapped in plastic and its tips protected with red pool noodles ahead of its debut appearance in the memorial. Senior project co-ordinator Kate Leslie with the Hornet. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen During its installation, Australian War Memorial logistics manager Kassandra Hobbs bought the pool noodles as a cost-saving measure to protect the old workhorse and reduce the chance of injuries to workers from its sharp edges, capable of taking out an eye. She bought 75 red, green and blue Funsafe pool noodles from the local Bunnings at $2 each, plus a couple of rolls of tape. At $162.44 all up, this was the best value in terms of collection protection, and would be reused. This cost is not exorbitant, considering the cost of having to fix objects if they were damaged, she says. To prepare the large objects for display, and tell about 100,000 stories in the new hall, took some Anzac ingenuity, as employed by Hobbs, said deputy project director Christopher Widenbar. Advertisement They also invented a rocket on a stick of a kind unlikely to be found at the next Easter Show. When the museum was trying to conserve a WWII German V2 Rocket, for display on the top floor of the new hall, the cylindrical shape made it difficult to handle. So a spindle was fitted, allowing it to be rotated, rotisserie-style. Widenbar said this reduced the risk of injury, winning a safety prize along the way. Anzac Hall is the most ambitious in scale and size of the changes under way at the memorial. Initially proposed by former prime minister Scott Morrison, Anzac Hall is the third stage of the $548.7 million expansion. Creating a space to display 43 large technology items such as the Hornet and Debbie the Bushmaster, and cover Australias involvement in Afghanistan, the Middle East from 1990, as well as peacekeeping from 1947, has meant soldiering on despite criticism. Executive project director Wayne Hitches gave this masthead a hard hat tour of the new Anzac Halls column-free spaces. There are two floors comprising 7000 square metres of exhibition space, and Hitches said the team turned to a bridge manufacturer in Newcastle to build reinforced precast concrete Super-T beams, eliminating the need for columns in the 100-metre-long hall. The beams, each 33 metres long to span the hall and weighing 64 tonnes, made their way into the lift pit via an 800-tonne crane. Designed by Cox Architecture, which won an architecture competition, and implemented by project architects DJAS, the plan for Anzac Hall eliminated columns so that there would be no constraints in moving large objects. Advertisement Hitches said: Its a bit of an engineering marvel, but theyre also in line with what you would see underneath a bridge or a freeway. A new roof shaped like the rays of the rising sun badge worn by the army is in place. Loading A giant wall made of sandstone from the quarry near Gosford faces the original facade of the heritage buildings, but the two are not allowed to touch. A Black Hawk helicopter will hang above the cafe. Criticism of the project included opposition to the unnecessary demolition of the existing Anzac Hall, built in 2001 and designed by Denton Corker Marshall. It won the Sir Zelman Cowen Award for public architecture. It was also criticised as too big, that it flouted normal approval processes, did not do enough to consider the heritage status of the old building, and The Guardian journalist Paul Daley likened it to Disneyland. Australian Institute of Architects national president Adam Haddow says the politics are similar to those surrounding the sale of the Sirius public housing block in Sydneys The Rocks to turn it into luxury accommodation. You get to a point where the project is the project, and you need to judge it based on how well the architect has responded to the brief and the delivery of a building, Haddow said. Advertisement A co-founder of the Australian Greens who was removed from the party over an online debate on trans people has accused the party of tolerating no dissent on the issue that has caused the expulsion of dozens of good environmentalists. Drew Hutton, 78, co-founded the national Greens alongside Bob Brown in the early 1990s, but was formally ejected from the party at the weekend in part for refusing to delete comments made by others on his Facebook page that the party organisation deemed to be transphobic. Drew Hutton was key to the formation of the Queensland Greens, Australian Greens and the anti-fracking Lock the Gate Alliance. Credit: Robert Rough Over the last decade or so, it would seem that some people have come into the Greens with the determination to take it over, Hutton told ABC 7.30 on Tuesday night. To convert it into the sort of party whose, one of whose, main preoccupations is with transgender rights. Theyve got an absolutely rigorous determination to stop any dissent from occurring to the things they think are important. The main things they think are important are we get rid of the notion of biological sex and replace it with gender identity. Advertisement InspirationAustralia Queenslands least likely paradise is not your standard resort island Craig Tansley July 24, 2025 3:00am Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share A hundred years ago, the first tourists on Bribie Island arrived from Brisbane on a 1000-passenger luxury steam ship complete with an orchestra that played as they danced after a three-course lunch. Now theyre as likely to arrive by hotted-up car, and head straight for McDonalds or Hungry Jacks, which were until more recently, two of the islands better dinner options. Bribie Island, Queenslands least-likely island paradise. Tourism and Events Queensland Bribie Island was Queenslands first holiday island destination. Theres a bridge to it now, so its Queenslands most accessible island destination too. And at barely 45 minutes drive from Brisbane Airport, its dead easy to get to for those down south looking for a Queensland beach getaway thats still uncrowded. But whos even heard of Bribie Island? Even Brisbane locals know it mostly as Gods waiting room after aggressive marketing campaigns by the brains behind the plethora of over 55s housing estates that opened here throughout the 1980s. Ive arrived onto the island from Brisbane Airport by way of a two-lane highway bridge. My apartment is located on the same main road, in a suburb called Bellara. Im parked outside a vape store. The outlook from my second-floor, three-bedroom apartment is across water, as promised. Pumicestone Passage, which divides this island from the rest of Queensland, is blue and strikingly clear. But no one mentioned the Lifeline outlet in the foreground. I keep my doors open at night for a breeze, and its not the sea I hear: its the revved-up engines of the islands youth, doing block work up and down Benabrow Avenue. I change apartments next morning, shifting a suburb south to a neighbourhood on the water called Bongaree. Its off the main drag, so Im not part of the peak-hour route for commuters working in Brisbane. In Bongaree, locals walk their dogs and their babies along a paved walkway just beside and above the water. Theyre shaded by big sprawling gum trees, which lend the place a feeling that we could be somewhere in the outback, though its the fig trees that impress me more they must be a century old at least, sitting squat in green parks beside the water. There are yachts anchored off the shore, not far from beaches long and wide with white sand where kids swim. Advertisement In the distance, looking north, I make out the karst-like Glasshouse Mountains, rising at right angles from the ground west of the Sunshine Coast. Itd be dead quiet if it werent for birdsong: kookaburras compete with rosellas, magpies and seagulls. Locals throw fishing lines in the water from every possible casting point; conversations I overhear tend to centre on why the fish arent biting. A large pod of dolphins with babies comes in close, rounding up a school of whiting, making a mockery of their excuses. When I finally leave the coastline, reluctantly, its to order a latte at a cafe called Annie Lane, where locals dine alfresco on a tree-lined main street, asking me how I like their island. Im not sure yet, Id like to say. Much of Bribie Island is only accessible by 4WD. Tourism and Events Queensland Local tourism operator Jason Brown had warned me before I arrived that Bribie Island isnt your standard Queensland resort island. Its Queenslands least-likely island paradise, he said. Youve got to dig a little deeper than some places. Thats the best thing about it. Theres a gigantic Bunnings you wont ever find on Hamilton Island, which I discover on my way around to the islands south-east coast, on Moreton Bay. One of Australias largest urban estuaries, Moreton Bay has a reputation for mud flats and mangroves, but in reality its full of white-sand beaches only locals know about. I walk around Buckleys Hole Conservation Park, east of Bongaree, where there are empty walking trails out to vast expanses of white sand beaches, fringed by tea-tree-stained creeks and impressive homes. I resist the lure of Red Rooster as I drive eastward to Woorim Beach, Bribie Islands most infamous tourist spot. A tragic shark attack in February put this beach suburb on the front pages of national newspapers, though there are plenty of people swimming off its pretty beach when I swing by. Theres tropical island charm here in bucketloads: cafes under fig trees serve breakfasts to chatty regulars. They call this a surf beach, though many a surfer might counter that, but I can see across to Moreton Island and the surf club beside it has a nice view over the (tiny) waves. Advertisement Kayaking on one of the islands four lagoons. Tourism and Events Queensland But what lies just beyond Woorim Beach is Bribie Islands real claim to (lack of) fame. More than a third of the island is made up of national park, accessible by 4WD vehicle only. Im doing a tour instead with Gday Adventure Tours where, just as on Kgari (formerly Fraser Island), 200 kilometres or so north, a 23-kilometre-long strip of beach serves as Queensland highway. But where half a million people visit Kgari each year, very few come here. Brown stops at a semi-tidal lagoon a short distance up the beach. We kayak across mirrored water as eastern grey kangaroos bound off into the bush. There are four lagoons like this to visit; at one, I wash down on my belly with a rushing tide, through crystal-clear water to the ocean. Further up the beach, almost to where the island ends at Caloundra, we visit gun emplacements where canons in the dunes formed the last defence of Brisbane during World War II. Loggerhead turtles use the beach too, to lay eggs from November to April. Its a stunning four-hour tour, but Brown says its the first tour hes done all week (its Thursday). People dont know about this place, he says. More than a third of the island is classified as national park. Tourism and Events Queensland Next morning I drive back across the bridge to the mainland and turn right alongside Pumicestone Passage to a spot even locals on an island no one knows about know nothing about. Bribie Beach Shack is claimed to be the only licensed bait and tackle shop on the planet; theres a bar facing the water, serving fish caught this morning and ice-cold beer. Its been running in some shape or form since 1951. I hire a tinnie and take off north, passing by a feeding dugong and pods of dolphins keen to ride my bow waves. Theres nothing but wilderness north, teeming with empty beaches where brumbies gather. The Glass House mountains loom beyond some higher than half a kilometre up. Back at the bar, co-owner Rich Speck tells me he left global manager roles with companies such as Qantas to buy this place. People ask me all the time, What did you come here for? he says. I just tell em: Look at this place, what do you think? Advertisement There are plenty of places to eat between my adventures all of them fancier than the local Maccas such as the Oyster Shed Beach Club, where I eat seafood and drink margaritas beneath palm trees looking across Pumicestone Passage, or The Jetty, on the other side of the passage, built on absolute beachfront, where chargrilled Moreton Bay bugs mightve been just plucked from the water out front. Though, in truth, its the rustic local hangouts I prefer, and there are plenty of them such as Pigface Seafood on the dunes at Woorim Beach, where it looks like I may be the only tourist here. Theres a subtle sort of island magic in this place, mixed in with a fair dose of contented Queensland suburbia which sums up Bribie Island, I think. Related Article Australia Queensland paradise islands are now our newest hiking destination DETAILS FLY Fly to Brisbane then hire a car. All major car-hire companies operate at Brisbane Airport. STAY Bribie Island Holiday Hub offers more than 100 holiday homes with concierge-style amenities from $180 a night, holiday-hub-bribie-island.netlify.app Advertisement PLAY Gday Adventure Tours offer a four-hour beach tour, including kayaking, from $129, gdayadventuretours.com, Bribie Beach Shack offers hire boats from $110 for a half-day, bribiebeachshack.com.au, and Bribie Gondola offers a variety of tours along the islands canal system from $75pp, bribieislandgondola.com.au EAT Oyster Shed Beach Club offers meals and cocktails right on the water, sandstonepointhotel.com.au/the-oyster-shed. Try Annie Lanes all-day brunch in Bongaree, annielanecafe.com.au, or eat with the locals at Pigface Seafood, facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063481213043# MORE visitmoretonbayregion.com.au The writer travelled courtesy of Visit Moreton Bay. CORRECTION An earlier version of this story stated that there were plenty of sharks swimming off Woorim Beach. This should have said plenty of people. Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now. Traveller Guides Advertisement Reviews & adviceAir travel Opinion Frustration over a Qantas upgrade changed the way I travel Tony Wright Associate editor and special writer July 24, 2025 3:00am July 24, 2025 3:00am Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 132 View all comments In the half century I have been travelling to the far corners of the world, I had never consulted a travel agent. Various employers had done so on my behalf, I suppose, when they sent me off on assignments to Europe or Asia or Africa or the Americas or wherever. Japan Airlines business class: Tony Wright found a deal through a travel agent for less than half the price of other carriers. Bloomberg But when travelling on my own dollar, I always mapped out the route myself, and booked my own air, train and ferry tickets, car hire and accommodation. It was a point of pride, made simpler in recent decades by the internet. Advertisement Hit the Qantas app, consult the Man in Seat 61 website for all things rail, fire up Booking.com or similar and away Id go. In future, all that palaver will be transferred to a marvellously efficient travel consultant. Last year, planning a trip for myself and a daughter to the UK and the European continent, I became frustrated at the difficulty of arranging an upgrade on Qantas, the airline to which I had been loyal since way before it was privatised 30 years ago. The advancing years have turned me ridiculously grumpy when shoehorned into a confined space for an extended period, and I had vowed never again to take an intercontinental flight in economy class if I could help it. Happily, I had accrued more frequent flyer points than required for an upgrade to business class. Advertisement But the post-COVID hoops to leap through in order to actually snag one for myself and another for my daughter proved beyond my patience, though the process is said to have improved over the past year. First Class on European trains is often not much more expensive than Second Class. A friend who had recently returned from a European family holiday sighed and ordered me to meet Amanda at a little agency called Brighton Travelworld. And there, all my pride about organising everything myself melted away. I inquired of Amanda whether she might know of an airline that offered premium economy at a reasonable price. Advertisement She looked me in the eye and said, You dont want to fly premium economy. Its not all that much better than economy. I knew this, I said, but we couldnt afford to pay outright to fly business class. Well see about that, said Amanda, applying flying fingers to her keyboard. Having established that our travel dates were flexible, she conjured up two discounted business-class flights on Japan Airlines (JAL) travelling Melbourne to London via Tokyo and returning from Frankfurt. For less than half the best price Id seen on the websites of major airlines. Return. That was still quite a wad of loot, of course, but woowee, half price! Plus JAL had a reputation for excellence and, as we discovered, fabulous Japanese food on board. Advertisement Anyway, we had been saving for this dad and daughter trip through all the long years of COVID and before. We jumped at the JAL deal, though it meant changing airports in Tokyo and staying overnight on the first leg. No worries. Amanda arranged a driver to transfer us from Narita to Haneda airports and overnight accommodation in a splendid airport hotel. Next, I needed advice. Would it be best to pay point-to-point fares on trains that would take us from Scotland to London and on to Amsterdam, to a couple of stops in Belgium (Bruges and Ypres), to Paris, on to Switzerland and finally, Germany? Or would a Eurail Pass be cheaper and more efficient? Leave it with me. I have a specialist, said Amanda, asking me to draw up a schedule for the train travel. Advertisement A few days later, she informed me that her specialist had acquired for us two suitable Eurail passes and had reserved first-class seats on each leg, though there were a couple of local trains that didnt require reservations. Related Article Opinion Tripologist Premium economy versus budget business class: What you get for the money Michael Gebicki The Tripologist First-class? Turned out it wasnt vastly more expensive than 2nd, and it provided access to lounges at several railway stations, plus seat-service meals and guaranteed, extra comfortable seating in uncrowded carriages. I probably wouldnt have ticked the option myself, but a travel agent had made the decision for me a fait accompli! Advertisement It was worth every extra cent, we figured later, streaming through glorious European countryside in luxury. Amanda arranged travel insurance and supplied our entire itinerary, complete with necessary coupons, in a handy travel purse. Determined not to hand over all my previously accustomed autonomy, I did our own accommodation bookings through Qantas Hotels. By paying with a combination of cash and points, we didnt have to shell out crippling amounts of money for excellent accommodation everywhere. We set a limit of about $250 a night in cash and topped up the remaining tariff with those Qantas points we had planned to use for the flight upgrades wed never managed. All that was left was car hire for a trip around Scotland. Advertisement Related Article Airline reviews Dated seats and entertainment, but this business class can save you $2000 We got lucky again. I happened across rave reviews for a company called Celtic Legend. Not familiar with the company, I emailed. A helpful fellow named Steve replied in minutes, assuring us they could arrange everything. When I informed the company I didnt want to drive in Glasgow and would be heading out of town via Loch Lomond, there came a no worries email. Advertisement Theyd pick us up from the railway station and drive us to one of their depots on the edge of the city. And so it came to pass. After a week travelling around Scotland, we dropped off the vehicle outside Edinburgh, with the offer of a lift to the tram into town, though we took an Uber. A comparison with better-known car-rental companies showed wed saved several hundred dollars. Ive promised another daughter a holiday down the track a bit. Well be in to see Amanda or one of her colleagues. Wouldnt think of doing it any other way. Sign up for the Traveller newsletter The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now. NEW YORK, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Columbia University disciplined dozens of students Tuesday for participating in pro-Palestinian protests in the campus library before May finals and an encampment during the 2024 alumni weekend, as it seeks to restore federal funding. More than 70 students were sanctioned, with about 80 percent facing suspensions, expulsions or revoked degrees, according to a statement from the student activist group Columbia University Apartheid Divest, which has called for the school to cut all financial ties with Israel. The group said the university's sanctions on students "hugely exceed precedent for teach-ins or non-Palestine-related building occupations." It would not be deterred and continue its work for Palestinian liberation, the group added. Columbia University's Judicial Board confirmed the punishments for the students. "While the University does not release individual disciplinary results of any student, the sanctions from Butler Library include probation, suspensions (ranging from one year to three years), degree revocations, and expulsions," the university said in a statement Tuesday. "Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences," said the statement. The disciplinary action is part of Columbia's efforts to regain the 400 million U.S. dollars in federal funding withheld by the Donald Trump administration since March over its handling of Gaza war protests and alleged campus antisemitism. Columbia was at the heart of pro-Palestine protests in 2024, and has now become a focal point in the Trump administration's push for campuses to curb antisemitism. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has cut funding to several top U.S. universities he sees as too tolerant of antisemitism. Top schools, such as Columbia and Harvard, face pressure to act or risk losing federal funding and having to make staff cuts. From 30 June to 4 July 2025, the WCO Smart Customs Project, funded by the Customs Cooperation Fund of China, conducted a study mission to Rio de Janeiro focusing on Brazil Customs use of blockchain technology to share information on Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) and to implement Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements (MRAs) in Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) member countries. The mission brought together over 30 participants, including senior officials from Brazil Customs such as Felipe Mendes Moraes (General Coordinator of the Customs Administration), Ronaldo Salles Feltrim Correa (Deputy Superintendent), and Sergio Garcia da Silva Alencar (Operational Coordinator for Customs). Representatives from the IT department, from service providers, from the Customs Law Committee of the State Bar Association (Order of Attorneys of Brazil - OAB) and from the Customs Administrations of Paraguay and Uruguay took part in person, with representatives from Argentina and Bolivia Customs participating remotely. The study mission explored the rationale for selecting an AEO MRA as the initial application scenario for the development of the bConnect blockchain platform, while recognizing the potential to scale up the solution to other use cases, such as the exchange of information. In addition, the Smart Customs Project team took the opportunity to learn about Brazil Customs recent initiatives and proofs of concept leveraging cloud computing to accelerate the implementation and testing of innovative solutions. These initiatives include strategic measures to modernize Customs control and promote compliance among e-commerce platforms and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) agents for AEO certification, of an AI-based system to analyse X-ray images during Customs inspections and AI-driven passenger risk assessment, and of relationship analysis for fraud detection purposes. The Smart Customs Project team also conducted a field visit to Rio de Janeiro International Airport to observe the deployment of the passenger facial recognition system for Customs control. The mission underscored Brazil Customs strong institutional commitment to innovation and regional cooperation in advancing technology-driven Customs modernization. Building on the outcomes of this mission, the Smart Customs Project will develop a Case Study Report and continue to explore WCO Members practice with respect to adopting disruptive technologies for Customs modernization and global collaboration. Travellers arrive at Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) Travellers check in at the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) Travellers process inbound procedures at the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) This photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows the Adora Mediterranea Cruise, carrying about 1600 passengers, docking at the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) Travellers check in at the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) A traveller shops at a duty free shop of Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) Travellers check in at the Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in Tianjin, north China, July 23, 2025. According to official data, the Tianjin cruise port has facilitated nearly 40,000 inbound and outbound passengers since July of this year, along with 16 cruise ship visits, marking a year-on-year increase of 17 percent. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue) YANGON, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar and Thailand held a bilateral workshop in the border town of Tachileik in eastern Myanmar on Tuesday to enhance cross-border healthcare cooperation, the state-owned daily Myanma Alinn reported on Wednesday. According to the report, the meeting was attended by officials from both countries and focused on strengthening collaboration in key health areas, including infectious disease surveillance and control along the border, maternal and child healthcare, and hospital medical services. They also discussed cooperation on twin hospitals projects in border regions, as well as the appointment of designated representatives to coordinate cooperation between hospitals in both countries, the report added. BAGHDAD, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss bilateral relations and the regional situation, al-Sudani's media office said Wednesday. During the phone conversation, al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq's support for efforts aimed at stabilizing the region, maintaining ceasefire agreements, and halting acts of aggression, read the statement. Al-Sudani also touched upon recent attacks targeting vital and oil-related infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region and the provinces of Salahuddin and Kirkuk, calling them "deliberate attempts to undermine Iraq's national economy." He said that Iraqi security agencies are closely monitoring the sources of these attacks in coordination with the U.S.-led international coalition forces. Al-Sudani also addressed the relationship between the Iraqi central government and the Kurdistan Regional Government regarding the transfer of oil production and non-oil revenues to the federal treasury in accordance with provisions of the effective budget law, the statement added. For his part, Rubio emphasized the importance of the Iraqi government holding the perpetrators accountable and preventing future attacks on energy infrastructure, including those operated by U.S. companies, according to a statement by the U.S. Department of State. Rubio also noted the importance of paying Iraqi Kurdistan Region salaries and resuming oil exports via the Iraq-Turkiye Pipeline, it added. Leesville, LA (71446) Today Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Some clouds. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Leesville, LA (71446) Today A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible early. Some clouds. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Sean McCarthaigh A motorcyclist is to go on trial next year in relation to a fatal collision with a pedestrian in Dublin city centre three years ago after the victims family successfully appealed a decision of the DPP that there should be no criminal prosecution arising from her death. Marie Farragher Pollard (62), from Bruckey, Castlegar, Co Galway, sustained fatal injuries in the incident which occurred at around 10.40am at the junction of Eden Quay and Beresford Place, Dublin 1, on November 9th, 2022. The retired nurse and married mother of three, who came originally from The Neale, Co Mayo, died two days later at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital in Dublin where she had been rushed by ambulance for treatment for her injuries. The driver of the motorcycle was uninjured and did not require medical treatment. A sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court on Wednesday heard an application by gardai for an adjournment of the inquest into Ms Farragher Pollards death under Section 25 (2) of the Coroners Act as criminal proceedings had been commenced in the case. Detective Inspector Ken Hoare told the coroner, Clare Keane, that the case was listed for trial in July 2026. Dr Keane granted the application and adjourned the inquest until a date to be determined on completion of related criminal proceedings. The coroner had previously been informed at a hearing of the inquest last January that Ms Farragher Pollards family had appealed the decision of the DPP in relation to the Garda file on the fatal incident. The original direction that there should be no prosecution arising from the pedestrians death has now been reversed. Ms Farragher Pollard, who had worked as a theatre nurse at University Hospital Galway until her retirement in 2020, was struck by the motorcycle while she was visiting Dublin to attend an exhibition. At the opening of her inquest in June 2023, her husband, Tom Pollard, gave evidence of formally identifying his wifes body. The results of a postmortem showed Ms Farragher Pollard had died as a result of a traumatic head injury. Tributes paid to the nurse following her death described her as a bright light who was known for her charity work with Concern in Thailand and Bangladesh in the 1980s. Dominic McSorley, the then chief executive of Concern, said Ms Farragher Pollard was a compassionate, caring and professional charity worker who was loved by all, including the refugees and communities she worked with. Marie fitted in easily and effortlessly everywhere she worked, said Mr McSorley. Under bright sunshine and a large community turnout, Kiltimagh became the first town in Ireland to join the global Blue Tree Project with the unveiling of a striking blue-painted tree at the towns Sculpture Park on Saturday, July 12. The initiative, which originated in Australia, uses a simple but visually powerful symbol to start meaningful conversations about mental health and to encourage people to seek support. The tree, which has been painted in a vivid blue shade, now stands as a prominent landmark - and an unmistakable invitation to talk, reflect, and reach out. It is Irelands first official Blue Tree as part of the international Blue Tree Project, a grassroots mental health awareness initiative that began in Western Australia in 2019 following the tragic death by suicide of Jayden Whyte. The idea to bring the project to Mayo began over Christmas when Kiltimagh couple Chris and Marion Glynn were walking through a park in Perth and saw a tree painted blue. Having found out the background to the tree, Marion contacted the organisers and discovered there were no registered Blue Trees in Ireland. They decided that Kiltimagh should be the location for the first. We sourced a dead tree, and then it was about sorting the colour, Chris explained. The paint used in Australia is different, so we had to match it properly here. Weve been in touch with Dulux about getting the colour named in their chart because at the moment it only has a four-digit RAL code. Chris made it clear that this is not about launching a new charity or organisation. Were not experts in mental health, he said. But we know it affects every family in this country. And the point is, people need to know theyre not on their own. Marion echoed that view. This tree is visible. You cant miss it. We wanted something that would stand out, something that says, its okay not to be okay. And also, something that people can interact with. There are QR codes on the plaque - scan them and it brings you to a long list of support organisations. The couple plan to enhance the area further by perhaps adding a bench. The crowd gathered at the Sculpture Park included elected representatives, mental health advocates, local volunteers, and families. Among them was Minister of State Alan Dillon who praised Marion and Chris. "This tree isnt just a local landmark, its a national first. And its something Ill be bringing back to the Minister for Mental Health. Its a concept Ireland can and should build on. Pressed on the issue of resourcing, Minister Dillon acknowledged the need for greater investment in mental health services. There needs to be more funding, he said. That applies not just within the health budget, but across departments - education, community supports, early intervention. Minister Dillon noted that suicide is only one end of a much broader mental health spectrum. Thankfully, only a small number of mental health cases end in suicide, but rates per capita in Ireland are high. But the wider picture is complex. Were seeing children now with multiple diagnoses, families navigating serious challenges. We need more occupational therapists, psychologists, speech and language therapists. Its about building resilience in communities - ensuring that no one is isolated. Local councillor Adrian Forkan also spoke about the importance of accessibility. Theres information right there on the plaque, he said. You dont have to ask anyone anything. If someone isnt feeling well, they can scan the code with their phone and theyre linked straight away to the Samaritans and others who can help. Community leader Mick Roache, who helped organise the event, said the message was ultimately one of hope. If this tree helps one person scan that code, reach out and get support, then it has done something very important. Mr Roache also highlighted the importance of thinking generationally. This is about the children of the future. If someones struggling, they can come here. They dont have to talk if theyre not ready - they can just be. But the information is there when they need it. Thats why it matters. David McNicholas, of the Kiltimagh Tourism and Festivals Committee, described the project as low investment, but high visibility". "This is a visual impact that gets people talking - and thats what we need. One unique element of the Blue Tree Project is its blend of quiet symbolism and digital interactivity. The visual impact draws people in, while the QR codes provide instant access to a curated list of mental health support services. Throughout the day, the tree itself became a focal point - for conversations, for photographs, and for quiet moments of thought. Children stood beneath it, curious. Adults walked over, scanned the QR code, and read the information silently. Chris and Marion Glynn hope the tree will serve as a lasting contribution to the town and the country. Its not going to solve everything, Chris said. But maybe it helps open a door. Maybe it helps someone take the next step. And as the sun shone down on the newly painted tree, glowing blue against the Kiltimagh sky, it was hard to disagree. Residents in Foxford are prepared to stage a protest and block the pedestrian crossing in the town because it is "too dangerous". The matter was raised by Fine Gael Cllr Neil Cruise at last week's meeting of Mayo County Council. The pedestrian crossing is located at the main junction in the town, near the local library. The speed at which vehicles pass through Foxford is unbelievable and there were two more accidents at the pedestrian crossing recently and there is no doubt there will be a fatality," he warned. "It is purely out of speed and lack of visibility at that crossing. We dont need any more reports, works need to start happening here. It is coming to a situation where it will be blocked and I will lead the charge if necessary because we have been highlighting this for 11 years. We have a beautiful town. We dont want a fatality happening. Director of Services Tom Gilligan acknowledged there were issues and that the crossing needed to be raised for visibility, adding: It is being looked at but I cant give a timeline as to works. With less than 10 days until new sweeping U.S. tariffs on EU imports take effect, alarm bells are ringing across Europe. European economists call for unity and multilateral action instead of fragmented, bilateral deals. As with so many anecdote-based, click-bait media articles these days, it began with a headline about an innocent victim. On July 15th, The Guardian published a dramatic piece shrieking "Nobody is safe" and headlined: "Irish tourist jailed by ICE for months after overstaying US visit by three days." It was quickly republished and recycled across the media. The Irish Times picked it up the next day: "Irish tech worker detained by immigration agents in US for 100 days: I didnt know when I was getting home.'" A sympathetic subtitle explained that he had overstayed his visa by three days due to a medical episode that left him unable to travel. The story, now fully shaped, took on a viral life of its own, spreading to Joe.ie, the Irish Independent, the Daily Mail, and even something called Fodors Travel Guide. Each outlet told essentially the same version: a harmless Irish victim with health issues, an overstay of just three days, and a nightmare at the hands of Donald Trumps heartless American immigration system. But beneath this one-sided story lies a more complicated and more disturbing truth. One that the original reporter, Sam Levin, seemed uninterested in telling. Lets start with the central character, known only as 'Thomas', a pseudonym granted by The Guardian allegedly out of fear that revealing his identity might subject him to further consequences from United States immigration authorities. This makes little sense as Thomas has already been deported. He is now safely home in Ireland, banned from re-entering the United States for ten years, so its unclear what danger he could still face. According to 'Thomas', he was visiting his girlfriend in the United States on the 90-day visa waiver programme, but seriously injured his leg and was advised by a doctor not to fly for between eight to 12 weeks, fearing a blood clot. This duration seems quite excessive and would likely need to be supported by strong medical documentation to justify a visa overstay to immigration officials. 'Thomas' claimed he tried contacting the United States and Irish authorities to explain this and seek an extension but that no one ever replied. Despite all this, the 35-year-old apparently assumed his doctors note would suffice, so he stayed on and visited his girlfriends family in Georgia. After what he describes as a mental health episode in a hotel room the couple shared, police were called and he was arrested and charged with falsely imprisoning his girlfriend. Though later released on bond, ICE agents picked him up and he so began a nearly 100-day torturous journey through Americas (deliberately?) awful immigration detention system. Journalism requires questions, not just compassion. To be very clear: if what 'Thomas' says about the conditions in United States immigration jails is true, then that is cause for alarm and serious human-rights scrutiny. He reported being held in filthy, overcrowded facilities where he was given dirty mattresses, stained or ripped clothing, minimal toilet paper and very limited time outdoors. He described being frequently cold with only a thin blanket, eating poor-quality food he sometimes couldnt identify and struggling to get medical care despite severe pain and mental health needs. In the federal prison, detainees were treated like criminal convicts, confined indoors for weeks without seeing the sky and left in confusion about their cases. ICE officials spoke Spanish and English, but Middle Eastern and North African detainees speaking neither were stuck in a state of confusion. But heres the issue: we are being asked to take the account of 'Thomas' on faith. The Guardian provides no corroborating evidence or attempts to confirm the arrest details, the doctors note, the visa extension attempts or if 'Thomas' ever bought a return ticket. They apparently didnt contact the Irish Embassy in Washington (whose website affirms they provide consular assistance to Irish citizens in emergencies and you can contact us if you need help) to verify that Thomas had ever contacted them. More concerning still: the serious nature of the charge - falsely imprisoning his girlfriend - is mostly glossed over. She is quoted as saying she did not support the charge. But her strangely phrased rebuttal is not the same as saying the event didnt happen. Police dont usually arrest someone for mental health reasons alone, especially when concerned neighbours were worried enough about what they heard or saw 'Thomas' do to call 9-1-1. Repeatedly, media coverage insists that 'Thomas' overstayed his visa by just three days", but this is misleading. The Irishman claimed that as he had the correct paperwork (presumably the doctors note) he believed that he would be fine departing the United States after his visa deadline by just a couple of days for medical reasons, but we dont know how long he would have stayed if ICE hadnt picked him up and there is no mention of a booked return flight. This also ignores what triggered his detention. He wasnt arrested at the airport trying to leave. He was arrested by police after a domestic incident and only then did immigration step in. The three-days also infantilises him. Thomas is a 35-year-old father, a tech worker with access to information and resources. His belief that a doctors note about a two or three-month-old calf injury would exempt him from immigration rules was, at best, naive. At worst, it was reckless and stupid. Lost in the dangerous laziness of how this story has been told there is a whole group of victimised people being ignored. Its easy to sympathise with someone who looks like us, sounds like us and claims to have stumbled into injustice. But the true victims of US immigration enforcement are not heedless middle-class Irish tourists who will always return to their home in Ireland. They are the undocumented families from Guatemala and Honduras living under constant threat. They are the asylum seekers from Venezuela and Haiti. They are US citizens of colour who carry passports at all times in case they are wrongly detained. They risk being torn from their communities in sudden ICE raids, losing the only home they have known. One Latina friend wrote to me today: Im actually in tears right now. Ive never been more afraid to be brown in my life. Of South American parents, she lived and worked in Los Angeles most of her life but moved recently to the North-East. Its really bad out here. Im in the suburbs - wealthy - and ICE raids several times a day. Im a US citizen and Ive been carrying my passport for months. Yesterday they were just 900 feet away None of this is to suggest that 'Thomas' deserved what he experienced. No one innocent of a serious crime should be held for weeks in dehumanising conditions, especially after agreeing to deportation. But he is not a martyr or the symbol of a broken system. His story, while troubling, is not the main story that needs to be told right now. His experience happened under Joe Bidens administration, but the current wave of deportations is happening under President Donald Trump. That story is darker, more complicated and often doesnt come with a middle or upper class resume. Sam Levin concluded his piece that since his return, 'Thomas' said he has had a hard time sleeping and processing what happened, which is very understandable. But then the reporter claimed he also struggled with long-term health problems that he attributes to malnutrition and inappropriate medications he was given while detained. As my old primary-school teacher Pat Dowling may have said: This is just tearing the arse out of it." The media really need to stop creating stories of extremes: of completely innocent victims versus evil incarnate. Tell the unvarnished truth, find the real untold story of injustice and let your readers make up their own minds. The Guardian and other outlets who copy-pasted this story should also ask harder questions. Otherwise, we risk mistaking the noise for the signal - or worse, create more noise and in doing so, ignore the real victims of ICE raids, imprisonment and deportations, whose stories are not told because they are not middle-class white and English-speaking, dont have media connections and dont have the option of flying home to safety in Ireland. Thomas could have told his story better by accepting his stupidity in overstaying a visa, but then opening our eyes to the horrifying detention centres, through the eyes of this Irishman as he saw first-hand what is terrorising millions of brown-skinned people in the United States today, tonight and every night. Because, unlike Thomas, if they are rounded up and detained by ICE officers, no-one may come to save them. TOKYO, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is facing a critical political juncture as discontent within his ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) threatens to derail his leadership. Mainichi newspaper reported on Wednesday that Ishiba has conveyed to close aides his intention to step down by August, following the LDP's internal review of its devastating loss in the recent House of Councillors election. Ishiba has confirmed that Japan and the United States had reached an agreement to set tariffs at 15 percent, including the existing rate. When asked whether the tariff agreement might influence his decision to remain in office, Ishiba stated, "I cannot make any statement until I have thoroughly examined the contents of the agreement." Ishiba is expected to meet with senior LDP figures later on Wednesday to discuss his political future. Meanwhile, the LDP Youth Division held an emergency online meeting with regional party branches. Many local chapters are increasingly frustrated with the party's leadership, and calls for Ishiba's resignation are growing, local media reported. People check a house after a fire in Baghdad, Iraq, on July 23, 2025. A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) BAGHDAD, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. The incident occurred in the al-Amin neighborhood after an electrical transformer caught fire due to high temperatures and heavy overload, sparking a blaze that quickly spread to the nearby civilian house, the source said on condition of anonymity. Civil defense teams rushed to the scene to put out the fire, the source added. The incident came just a few days after a massive fire broke out at a hypermarket in Kut, the capital of Iraq's eastern Wasit province, which claimed the lives of at least 61 people. Iraq has witnessed multiple fire incidents recently, as many parts of the country are undergoing a scorching summer heat that reaches 50 degrees Celsius. A man is seen inside a house after a fire in Baghdad, Iraq, on July 23, 2025. A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) Photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows the bedroom of a house after a fire in Baghdad, Iraq. A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) A man tries to collect items inside a house after a fire in Baghdad, Iraq, on July 23, 2025. A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) A man walks through smoke inside a house after a fire in Baghdad, Iraq, on July 23, 2025. A fire broke out in a civilian house in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday, killing at least four and severely injuring two others, a source from the Iraqi Interior Ministry told Xinhua. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood) SHANGHAI, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A Thai company on Wednesday signed a 1.75-billion-U.S. dollar intent deal to purchase 500 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from a Chinese developer. This deal between Thailand's leading property developer and infrastructure investor, Pan Pacific Company Limited, and Shanghai Volant Aerotech Co., Ltd. represents the largest single intent order to date in China's emerging eVTOL sector. The two sides, together with China National Aero-technology International Engineering Corporation (CAIEC), signed a tripartite cooperation agreement at the International Advanced Air Mobility Expo, which kicked off on Wednesday in Shanghai. CAIEC will provide low-altitude infrastructure support for this collaboration effort. The 500 ordered eVTOLs are VE25-100 models, commercially branded as Skylar. Featuring a compound wing configuration, each aircraft has a six-passenger capacity with an operational range of 200 to 400 km and a cruising speed of 235 km/h, according to the developer. They are scheduled for delivery in batches after obtaining airworthiness certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China -- with phased deployment across the Maldives, Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, and Africa for low-altitude passenger transport, aerial tourism and emergency rescue operations. Just one week prior, Autocraft from the United Arab Emirates signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese eVTOL maker Shanghai TCab Technology Co., Ltd. in Shanghai for purchasing 350 E20 eVTOL aircraft worth 1 billion U.S. dollars. Slow-motion denialism as HIV services collapse South Africa is staging a sequel to Mbeki-era HIV denialism, only this time the science, solutions and costs are clearer. Tragically, we have politicians showing the same disregard for despairing public health experts sounding the alarm and civil societys calls for engagement. Treasurys token contribution, President Cyril Ramaphosas and the Government of National Unitys (GNU) silence, Deputy President Paul Mashatiles empty promises and Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledis fabricated success, mean the current child and adult deaths and unnecessary infections are mounting. Exactly six months after the abrupt withdrawal of billions of rands in support to South Africa from the US Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar), there is still no plan. In May, in response to concerns about HIV service weaknesses, Motsoaledi claimed 520,000 people were initiated on HIV treatment between February and April, a number already almost halfway towards his Close the Gap campaign target. This remarkable success claimed by the minister occurred during a collapse in funding, staffing and testing, and was achieved simply with roadshows and unnamed community programmes. This would represent one of the most remarkable HIV global service delivery achievements yet, given three months of massive funding withdrawal and service collapse. Yet, in the past few weeks: National Health Laboratory Services data shows CD4 test volumes are down sharply from 2024. If more people were entering care, these numbers would rise. This is the clearest indicator we have that far fewer people are entering care. The ministers claim that more than 500,000 people were added to the number on HIV treatment is thus implausible; New data from Johannesburg show HIV diagnoses and people starting treatment are down nearly one-third since Pepfars withdrawal. In Gauteng, the province with the highest HIV burden, the ministers 520,000 number should be immediately reflected in numbers like these. Yet we are seeing the numbers go down rather than up; Community monitors from Ritshidze an organisation that monitors the ARV programme report steep drops in testing, medicine pickups and staff capacity in government facilities offering HIV services. Do more with less is not a realistic strategy to address this; Early infant diagnosis rates have somewhat recovered, too late for many. Infants with HIV have extremely high mortality. These are the bodies behind the pause the minister refuses to call a collapse; A report by Avac, an HIV advocacy organisation, showed most key population programmes have been terminated. Key populations refers to groups at particularly high risk of HIV such as sex workers and men who have sex with men. The government claimed that the patient files from the clinics that provided services to key populations have been transferred to other clinics. But staff at some of the defunded organisations providing these services have told me, despairingly, that key population clinic files now sit, unopened, in overwhelmed clinics; The Clinical HIV Research Unit in Johannesburg shut its cervical cancer screening and prevention clinic in June; and The Global Fund, our significant remaining donor, cut funding to South Africas current grants by 16%, reducing it by R1.4-billion. The Treasury emergency funding announced last week amounts to roughly half of what the Global Fund cut, and only 6% of the Pepfar cut. Repeated offers of help and pleas for meetings and consultations from local experts and civil society have been ignored by the countrys leaders. This includes a letter signed by numerous organisations and individuals from across the countrys most respected institutions, setting 7 July as a deadline for a response. Constant promises that the plans for mitigating the HIV programme will be released have not materialised. Reassurances that provinces are getting support is not being experienced by any of the provincial colleagues I speak to. Mashatile has doubled down on the 520,000 number, telling Parliament that the withdrawal of Pepfar funding has spurred on the government to become more self-reliant, using BRICS, Lotto and domestic funding to plug the gap, with no details as to how this will happen. He claimed no patient will suffer, despite local studies warning of massive waves of new deaths and infections, multiple anecdotes in the press to the contrary, and submissions by public figures to the Portfolio Committee on Health on service interruptions. Both Mashatile and Motsoaledi have repeatedly lamented, correctly, the severe reliance of our health system on external donors, but have not acknowledged that they have been fully responsible for the health system for almost all of Pepfars existence. Concerned academics directly responsible for shaping the Department of Healths HIV response, who have called for the minister to explain his 520,000 figure, have not been answered. This crisis is fixable. It requires immediate reinvestment in defunded organisations, the rehiring of experienced managers and an honest medium-term plan for service integration within our health system. None of this is happening. There is no urgency, no leadership and no public plan. Motsoaledi says there is no collapse but patients are dying without diagnosis, and others are acquiring HIV without prevention. Call it what you want. The system is failing. The ministers claims of no collapse ring hollow for the people left stranded with no services, waiting to die for want of a diagnosis and treatment, or unnecessarily contracting HIV for lack of effective prevention. Recent local modelling has shown the Pepfar collapse may result in tens of thousands of preventable deaths, if services are not replaced. The Ramaphosa-Motsoaledi-GNU era risks a ruined legacy, not for failing to stop this crisis, but for pretending it wasnt happening. Professor Francois Venter is a clinician researcher at Wits University. He led a large Pepfar programme until 2012 and has had a support role since then. He and his unit do not receive Pepfar, CDC or USAID funding. This opinion piece was published by Daily Maverick's Spotlight and GroundUp. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Chinese and American youth visit the Suzhou Industrial Park in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, July 18, 2025. (China International Communications Group Center for the Americas/Handout via Xinhua) BEIJING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- As night fell over the Liangma River in Beijing, young delegates from China and the United States gathered beneath the Friendship Bridge for a scenic cruise, immersing themselves in the city's vibrant nighttime atmosphere. Under the bridge, a colorful screen lit up with vivid imagery to reveal a stunning 3D art space. "The whole journey was absolutely amazing," said Dahlia Townley-Bakewell, an undergraduate student at Indiana University Bloomington. "I've never seen such a cool light show in the United States -- it was stunning." The immersive night cruise was part of the "Across the Pacific: China-U.S. Youth Dialogue for A Shared Future" exchange program. The program was co-hosted by the China International Communications Group (CICG) Center for the Americas, International Student Conferences and Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, with support from Xi'an Jiaotong University. From July 7 to 23, the program brought together 25 youth delegates, including 15 American university students, one Canadian student, two U.S. program leaders and 11 Chinese participants. They traveled from Beijing to Xi'an, Suzhou and Shanghai, for a series of visits and cross-cultural dialogues. "During my stay in Beijing, I have loved touring historical sites such as the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City," said Michael Alexander Buzzy, a Ph.D. student at Wayne State University Law School. "Visiting these historic sites has given me a deep appreciation for the history and sheer scale of Beijing." After exploring Beijing's historical and cultural landmarks, the delegates continued to Xi'an in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, a city equally steeped in history. They visited landmarks such as Huaqing Palace and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. Through interactive activities, such as trying on Hanfu (traditional Chinese attire), they gained a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese culture. "I've been studying the Chinese language for a little while, so that definitely helped me get familiar with China," said Erik Michael Larson, also from Indiana University Bloomington. "I didn't really realize how far back the history goes in Xi'an -- especially 3,000 years. It's really outstanding." While Xi'an highlighted China's ancient grandeur, Suzhou in east China's Jiangsu Province offered a different charm, with elegance and refined beauty. At the Suzhou Museum, the participants admired how classical aesthetics merged with modern design and were struck by the city's cultural depth and artistic richness. Beyond cultural exploration, the journey also offered insights into China's strides in science and technology. The American students showed great interest in the country's rapid innovation. At Tencent's Beijing headquarters, the participants experienced innovative applications, including a digital currency platform and immersive 3D technologies, and engaged in discussions with employees about smart tools in the AI era. This was followed by an exciting test ride at a Xiaomi factory that particularly thrilled the American students. "The automation at the Xiaomi factory and the digital innovations at Tencent completely overturned my prior perception of China's tech industry," Larson said with excitement. "These experiences were more vivid and impactful than any classroom case study." Many participants praised the integration of technology into everyday life in China. "One application that I have come to use a lot during my time in Beijing is WeChat," said Buzzy. "WeChat reflects China's overall technological development of seamlessly integrating technology with everyday life." Kiran Alexis Nieves-Noel, an undergraduate at East Tennessee State University, echoes these sentiments, noting that the seamless integration of technology into daily life, from mobile payments to public transport, highlights how innovation and accessibility can together enhance civic life. Complementing their hands-on experiences, the program also encouraged broader reflections on international cooperation. One key component of the program was the "China-U.S. Future Diplomats Summer Camp," which provided participants with a deeper understanding of the diplomatic mechanisms of both countries. Through simulated diplomatic discussions, Chinese and American youth explored issues such as bilateral trade, environmental protection and artificial intelligence. "This is a student-led project," said Shu Xin, secretary-general of the camp and a Chinese student delegate. "Through communication and discussion, Chinese and American youth have developed a deeper understanding of each other and overcome many previous stereotypes." Throughout the program, participants consistently expressed that such face-to-face exchanges are among the most effective ways to dispel misunderstandings and build lasting friendships. This reflects a broader trend in China-U.S. educational exchanges, which have grown significantly over the past decades. Since 2009, China has been the top source of international students in the United States for 15 consecutive years. According to the Open Doors 2023 report, during the 2022-2023 academic year, Chinese students numbered 289,000, making up 27.4 percent of all international students in American colleges and universities. Meanwhile, an increasing number of American students are studying, interning or participating in cultural exchange programs in China. These exchanges foster language skills and cultural understanding while providing a platform for direct dialogue and cooperation. Despite ups and downs in China-U.S. relations, youth from both countries have always contributed warmth and strength to their development. In a world facing rising uncertainty and change, it is all the more important for young people to deepen dialogue and work together toward a shared future, said Yu Yunquan, vice president of CICG. Chinese and American youth visit Xiaomi's automobile factory in Beijing, capital of China, July 12, 2025. (China International Communications Group Center for the Americas/Handout via Xinhua) Chinese and American youth in traditional Chinese costumes pose for a group photo in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, July 14, 2025. (China International Communications Group Center for the Americas/Handout via Xinhua) Chinese and American youth participate in the "China-U.S. Future Diplomats Summer Camp" in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, July 16, 2025. (China International Communications Group Center for the Americas/Handout via Xinhua) Driver accused of ramming into crowd outside LA nightclub charged with 37 counts of attempted murder By Akbar Novruz Azerbaijan has officially submitted all gathered evidence related to the torture and killing of two Azerbaijani citizens in Russia's Yekaterinburg region to the Russian Investigative Committee, according to the countrys Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev, Azernews reports via local media. Speaking during his official visit to Ankara, Aliyev emphasized that despite Russia's classification of the victims as Russian citizens, Azerbaijan does not recognize dual citizenship, and thus treats them as its nationals. We have initiated a criminal case regarding the incidents in Yekaterinburg. Although the Russian side says that the victims are citizens of their country, since Azerbaijan does not recognize dual citizenship, they are our citizens, he said. Aliyev revealed that forensic examinations conducted in Azerbaijan confirmed that the victims died as a result of torture, beatings, and serious bodily injuries. The Prosecutor Generals Office has submitted the forensic results and other materials to Russia's Investigative Committee. We hope there will be results from the criminal case opened on this issue, he stated, noting that Russia had assured Azerbaijan of conducting a separate investigation into the facts of violence. The case centers on a raid carried out by Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) on June 27, targeting homes of Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg. Two individuals were killed and several others were injured during the operation. The deceased were the brothers of prominent Azerbaijani journalist Seyfaddin Huseynli and were buried in Agjabedi on July 1. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has issued multiple strong statements demanding full transparency and justice. The Russian Charge d'Affaires and Ambassador in Baku were summoned to the ministry and formally presented with a protest over the incident. In parallel with Russias investigation, the Azerbaijani Prosecutor Generals Office has launched its own criminal case under Article 7 of the Criminal Code, which includes charges such as murder committed with special cruelty, abuse of authority, and multiple homicides. An investigative group has been created to carry out preliminary investigations. Azerbaijan continues to press for accountability, stressing that the gravity of the crime and the nationality of the victims require serious action from Russian authorities. Herders chop Juncao at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) Herders harvest Juncao at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A herder operates a center-pivot irrigation system in an alfalfa field at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) This photo taken on July 18, 2025 shows a Juncao field equipped with a drip irrigation system at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 18, 2025 shows three alfalfa fields equipped with center-pivot irrigation systems at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Si Yuan) A herder checks the operation of a center-pivot irrigation system in an alfalfa field at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) Zhang Hong'en, director of the Livestock Demonstration Center in Mauritania, checks the growth of Juncao grass in a test field at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, Jan. 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Si Yuan) This photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows a Juncao field at a pasture, which was built and upgraded under the guidance of experts from the Livestock Technology Demonstration Center, in Tiguent, Mauritania. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A herder feeds cattle with alfalfa fodder at a pasture, which was built and upgraded under the guidance of experts from the Livestock Technology Demonstration Center in Tiguent, Mauritania, July 15, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 18, 2025 shows the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Si Yuan) Herders feed alfalfa forage to cattle at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) Herders feed Juncao forage to cattle at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A Chinese expert in Mauritania checks on cattle feeding and growth conditions at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini Village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A herder checks on the operation of a center-pivot irrigation system in an alfalfa field at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini village, Mauritania, July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) This photo taken on July 15, 2025 shows a herd of cattle at a pasture built and upgraded under the guidance of Chinese experts from the Livestock Demonstration Center in Tiguent, Mauritania. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) A herder processes chopped Juncao at the Livestock Demonstration Center in Idini Village, Mauritania, on July 18, 2025. More than 80 percent of Mauritania's territory is covered by desert. Scorching heat, drought, poor soil quality, and violent sandstorms make it extremely difficult for plants to survive. In 2017, China-backed technical cooperation for the Livestock Demonstration Center was officially launched in Idini. Over the years, Chinese experts have successfully introduced alfalfa and expanded its large-scale cultivation, helping alleviate the local forage shortage. As a result, multiple varieties of forage plants have now taken root in the Sahara Desert. Between 2020 and 2024, the team developed about 20 hectares of desert land for forage plantation trials. (Xinhua/Han Xu) Elevenlabs AudioNative Player A section of the pro-immigrant protest in San Diego, California, February 2, 2025. As part of the Trump administrations attempt to establish a presidential dictatorship and overturn what remains of the US Constitution, the government is rapidly expanding its war on immigrants. Recent developments underscore the advanced state of the crisis and the need for the working class to intervene independently against both parties and their shared anti-immigrant agenda. What is being done to immigrants will soon be used against all opponents of the financial oligarchy. In response to the shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent Saturday in New York City, Trumps border czar Tom Homan and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem threatened to flood major cities with ICE agents at a Monday press conference. Homan declared, Sanctuary cities are now our priority. We are going to flood the zone ... sanctuary cities get exactly what they dont want, more agents in the community and more agents in the worksite. For the past six months, ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agentsoften masked and backed by police or militarized unitshave violently disappeared workers, students and longtime residents as part of Trump and his fascist adviser Stephen Millers goal of deporting 3,000 people a day, or 1 million a year. Bloomberg reported Tuesday that the federal government granted a $1.26 billion contract to Virginia-based Acquisition Logistics Company to build a sprawling tent camp at Fort Bliss, Texas. The camp will hold 5,000 beds, making it the largest immigration detention site in the country. Fort Bliss, located in the Chihuahuan Desert near El Paso, regularly sees temperatures above 95F (35C). Forcing people to live in tents there will lead to immense suffering and death. Other military bases are also being utilized for domestic repression. A July 15 letter signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved DHS requests to detain 1,000 immigrants each at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey and Camp Atterbury in Indiana and to double the capacity of the Guantanamo Bay prison camp to 400 detainees. Conditions inside the sprawling for-profit immigration detention network are degrading and deadly. A recently released Human Rights Watch report, You Feel Like Your Life is Over, based on interviews with detainees and families, exposes horrific conditions in three overcrowded Florida centers. At least 11 people have died in ICE custody this year, including five in Florida. Nearly 57,000 are detained nationwide despite ICEs official capacity of 41,000. Floridas Krome North Service Processing Center, the Broward Transitional Center (run by GEO Group), and the Miami Federal Detention Center (BOP-run) are all implicated in abuse. Individuals interviewed by Human Rights Watch described freezing overcrowded cells, broken toilets and denial of medical care or hygiene. Brian and Jose: Asserted guards violently attacked protesting detainees on April 15, using stun grenades and restraints after disabling a camera. Pedro: Said that guards retaliated against detainees who had visitors. The guard made me get completely naked turn around, bend down, and get on all fours and cough. Harpinder Chauhan: Said inmates were forced to eat like dogs while shackled. Andrea and Rosa: Recalled women being denied medications, leading to one diabetic detainee being hospitalized. The wife of a detainee has not heard from her husband, Jesus, in over a month. I dont know if hes alive. My husband has no record here. Hes being held incommunicado. Rosa on solitary confinement: If you ask for help, they isolate you. So, people stay silent. The recently opened Everglades concentration camp, which was not featured in the report, already faces reports of overcrowded, steaming tents and maggot-infested food. Importantly, the report notes that one of the factors leading to overcrowding at ICE detention facilities was the passage and adoption of the Laken Riley Act. The Laken Riley Act, rushed through Congress with Democratic votes prior to the inauguration of Trump, mandates detention without bail for immigrants accused of petty crimes. There is mass opposition to the fascistic attack on immigrants, expressed in many protests throughout the country, including the mobilization of communities against the deportation of workers. Last month, polling by Gallup found that 78 percent of respondents favor allowing undocumented immigrants to live in the US on their way to becoming citizens. The same poll found that 85 percent said undocumented children brought to the US by their parents should be allowed to become US citizens, and 79 percent of respondents thought immigration is a good thing. Only 30 percent said they thought immigration to the US should be reduced, down from 55 percent last year. Opposition to the war on immigrants, however, cannot be waged through the Democratic Party or any of the institutions of the state. The Biden administration, and the Obama administration before it, carried out mass deportations and laid the foundations for Trumps immigration Gestapo. Biden also oversaw the brutal crackdown on college campuses against students protesting the genocide in Gaza, which has continued under Trump with the full support of the Democratic Party. Democrats are not opposing Trump but are active partners in the war on immigrants. When Trump nationalized Californias National Guard to aid ICE raids, Governor Gavin Newsom sent 800 state police against protesters. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass imposed a curfew and unleashed Los Angeles police on protesters. Under conditions in which US citizens and legal immigrants are being detained and deported without due process, last week, in an interview with CNNs Anderson Cooper, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders endorsed deportations, while criticizing some of Trumps specific actions: If you are a drug dealer, if you are somebody in this country undocumented or has committed a crime, I think most people think, hey, have a nice day, youre out of here. And I support that. This followed earlier statements by Sanders that Trump had done right in attacking immigrants and making sure our border is stronger. The statements and actions of the Democrats over the last six months underscore that the same party that is responsible for Trumps return to the White House is incapable of defending democratic rights. This is because the Democrats, no less than the Republicans, are a party of Wall Street and war. Trumps fascistic assault on immigrants is aimed at scapegoating the most vulnerable in society to shield the real source of poverty, war, and repression: the capitalist ruling class. The capitalist oligarchy is waging war on immigrants even as it is slashing social programs, public education, workplace regulations and every social and democratic right of the entire working class. The working class must reject all efforts to divide it along national, racial or ethnic lines. The fight to defend immigrant workers can succeed only through the unified mobilization of the working class as a wholeblack, white, native-born, immigrant, documented and undocumented alike. This means organizing independently of the capitalist parties and building rank-and-file committees in every workplace, school and neighborhood to oppose deportation operations and prepare collective action using the immense social power of the working class. The defense of immigrants is inseparable from the defense of all democratic rights. To defeat fascism and stop the drive to war and dictatorship, workers must take up the fight for socialism. As Karl Marx wrote in 1848, The working men have no country. The solution to national fascism is international socialism: Workers of the world, unite! Customs officers check imported fruits at Hekou Port in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) KUNMING, July 23 (Xinhua) -- At dawn, Vietnamese tourists lined up at Hekou Port, the largest land port along the Yunnan section of the China-Vietnam border, drawn by more than mere sightseeing. Amid the queues, men carrying bulging sacks filled with household appliances, small consumer goods, and snacks are a common sight. This bustling scene is driven by Vietnam's cross-border shopping boom, propelling a wave of Chinese goods southward. This shopping frenzy is reshaping the border economy as foreign consumers increasingly flock to Chinese e-commerce platforms for "Made in China" products. These vibrant exchanges of goods and people are a microcosm of the ties between China and Vietnam, which have been continuously deepened by the engines of shopping, trade and tourism. Nguyen Hong Nhu, known as "A Rou from Vietnam" on Douyin (Chinese version of TikTok), is capitalizing on this trend. Based in Yiwu, the renowned global trading hub in east China, she sources products from its vast market for Vietnamese clients. Starting by reselling small goods online, she and her Chinese husband now ship over a dozen containers monthly to Vietnam, filled with daily essentials, hardware and toys. "Chinese goods are high-quality, affordable, and the supply chain is incredibly fast," she said. Her trading company now manages booming demand, especially bulk orders from Vietnamese businesses. This offline frenzy is mirrored at the China-ASEAN (Hekou) Cross-border E-logistics Industrial Park, where over 30 livestream studios buzz with Chinese and Vietnamese sales pitches. Many Vietnamese streamers visit Chinese factories, where they showcase products live to their audiences back home. "These Made-in-China goods are shipped from bonded warehouses in China and can reach Vietnam within a week," said Chen Dajin, chairman of the locally based Muabay (Yunnan) Cross-border E-commerce Co., Ltd. The trend spills into lifestyle and culture. At a Pop Mart store in Kunming, capital of Yunnan, Vietnamese shoppers join visitors from Thailand and Malaysia hunting collectibles. While consumer goods flow south, Vietnamese agricultural produce heads north. Trucks constantly shuttle at Hekou, laden with Yunnan vegetables, flowers and fruits, alongside Vietnamese dragon fruit, coffee, cassava -- and now, passion fruit and lychee. "Passion fruit is nutritious and uniquely flavored, with growing demand in China. Vietnam's warm climate makes it a key producer," said Li Fanjin, head of Guangxi Tianye Import and Export Trading Co., adding that sourcing from neighboring Yunnan and Guangxi "saves time, cuts logistics costs and reduces transit losses." Vietnam's lychee season sees over 100 trucks cross daily into China via Hekou -- each clearing customs in under 10 minutes on average. Customs statistics show that in the first half of this year, Hekou Customs processed 29,000 tonnes of imported Vietnamese lychees worth 160 million yuan (about 22.4 million U.S. dollars), representing year-on-year increases of 104.7 percent in volume and 66.9 percent in value, respectively. A mid-April joint statement from China and Vietnam welcomed protocols for Vietnamese exports of peppers, passion fruit, raw and edible bird's nests, and rice bran to China. Hekou Customs data highlighted the growing trade, with more than 200,000 tonnes of Vietnamese fruit worth 700 million yuan entering China in the first four months of 2025. "China-Vietnam agricultural cooperation is highly complementary, with vast potential and tangible results," said Ma Zhigang, an official with China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. In 2024, trade between Yunnan and Vietnam reached 22.1 billion yuan, up 18.6 percent year on year. Yunnan's specialty agricultural products and machinery find robust markets in Vietnam, while Vietnamese tropical fruit and seafood delight Yunnan consumers. Cooperation deepens as Yunnan recently exported its first batch of 8-tonne freshwater-farmed live sturgeon to Vietnam. In Yunnan's Malipo Border Economic Cooperation Zone, near the border, Vietnamese durian, coffee beans and other raw materials are processed into high-value, freeze-dried snacks and essential oils for broader markets. Beyond goods, people-to-people exchange binds the nations. Hekou, adjacent to the Vietnamese province of Lao Cai, buzzes with Vietnamese tourists using shared e-bikes, paying for bubble tea via mobile apps, embracing Chinese culture, and enjoying a digital lifestyle just like that of Chinese people. "You can rent an e-scooter at the port just by scanning a QR code -- then you can go anywhere," said Hoang Thi Sinh, a tourist from Lao Cai. Her friend Hoang Thu Hien has been fascinated by Hanfu (traditional Chinese attire) and Chinese culture since childhood. "It's such a joy to finally try it." Tourism drives significant consumption. On bullet trains from Hekou to Kunming, large suitcases are common. "They all plan to buy some local specialties while traveling -- traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), wild mushrooms and flower cakes from Yunnan are particularly popular among Vietnamese visitors," said Nguyen Manh Tuan, a tour guide with Vietnam's Viet Image Inter Travel Co. In 2025, more than 10,600 Vietnamese tour groups -- totaling over 120,000 visitors -- entered China via Hekou Port, according to official data. In TCM stores in Beijing, Vietnamese tourists often pre-ordered goods via apps and left with full suitcases, according to Vietnamese-speaking tour guide Yu Tao. For cross-border commuter Nguyen Thu Huyen, life seamlessly blends both sides. She uses lifestyle and shopping apps like Meituan, Taobao and Pinduoduo. "Chinese goods are affordable and trendy. They're a hit with Vietnamese youth, and I often buy for family and friends back home." This grassroots synergy -- powered by digital platforms, complementary industries and cultural affinity -- has fueled a robust partnership between the two countries. China has remained Vietnam's largest trading partner for over two decades, while Vietnam is China's top trading partner within ASEAN. Bilateral trade exceeded 260 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Nguyen Hong Nhu expressed optimism about being part of the growing cultural and economic ties between China and Vietnam. "When our two countries do well, so do we -- and life looks more promising." A Vietnamese tourist dressed in Hanfu attire poses for a photo with lotus flowers in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) Tourists pass by the Hekou Port in southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) A Vietnamese tourist pays via mobile phone at a shop in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) Trucks pass by the Hekou Port in southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) Vietnamese tourists pose for a photo with lotus flowers in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, southwest China's Yunnan Province, June 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) killed at least 81 Palestinians in Gaza in the 24 hours beginning dawn Tuesday, as part of the Zionist regimes stepped-up offensive this week targeting all areas of the Strip, including the city of Deir al-Balah, which had previously been spared heavy bombardment. Palestinians carry sacks of flour, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. [AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi] According to Gaza health authorities, 31 of the dead were aid-seekers. The total number of starving Palestinians shot dead by Israel while seeking food now exceeds 1,000 since the establishment in May of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). On Tuesday, United Nations (UN) human rights office spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan told the Associated Free Press: As of July 21, we have recorded 1,054 people killed in Gaza while trying to get food; 766 of them were killed in the vicinity of GHF sites and 288 near UN and other humanitarian organisations aid convoys. The US- and Israeli-controlled foundation is a mechanism for corralling Palestinians into the southernmost part of the Strip, where they are routinely gunned down by Israeli forces. The aim is to prepare the expulsion of the Palestinians from Gaza entirely, while legitimising Israels ban on all genuine aid organisations transporting desperately needed supplies into the Strip. On Sunday, the IDF massacred 92 aid-seekers. On Monday, it responded to global shock and horror by murdering some 130 Palestinians. Together with the killings on Tuesday, that takes the three-day toll to at least 303. The direct killings are being accompanied by a rapid rise in the number of Palestinians dying of starvation as a deliberate consequence of the Israeli blockade. On Tuesday, 15 Palestinians succumbed to starvation. Among them were four children, including 13-year-old Abdulhamid al-Ghalban, who died at a hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis, and six-week-old baby Yousef al-Safadi. The babys uncle, Adham al-Safadi, told Reuters that the family had been desperately trying to find baby formula for days. You can't get milk anywhere, and if you do find any its $100 for a tub, he said. At least 21 children have starved to death in the past three days. Of the 101 Palestinians confirmed to have died from hunger, 80 were children, almost all perishing over recent weeks. On Tuesday, Professor Nick Maynard, a British surgeon volunteering in the last functioning hospital in the south of the Strip, detailed the horrific conditions on the ground. In a report published in the Guardian, Maynard stated: Im writing this from Nasser hospital in southern Gaza, where Ive just finished operating on another severely malnourished young teenager. A seven-month-old baby lies in our paediatric intensive care unit, so tiny and malnourished that I initially mistook her for a newborn. The phrase skin and bones doesnt do justice to the way her body has been ravaged, Maynard wrote. We are witnessing deliberate starvation in Gaza right now. The hospital has run out of baby formula so it is forced to use 10% dextrose (sugar water), which has no nutritional value. Mothers are frequently too malnourished to breastfeed. When an international doctor sought to bring formula into Gaza for use at Nasser Hospital, it was confiscated by the Israeli authorities. Growing numbers of patients, Maynard reported, are dying after surgeries, because they are too weak to fight off infections. He warned that the enforced malnutrition would imminently claim thousands of lives. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made a similar warning to a meeting of the Security Council in New York this week, describing the situation in Gaza as a horror show, in the level of death and destruction without parallel in recent times. Malnourishment is soaring. Starvation is knocking on every door, and now we are seeing the last gasp of a humanitarian system built on humanitarian principles. This system is being denied the conditions to function, denied the space to deliver, denied the safety to save lives. Guterres denounced Israels deliberate targeting of UN and international humanitarian facilities, noting that it was a violation of international law. That targeting has continued with Israels bombardment and invasion of Deir al-Balah. The city in central Gaza is the only one not to have previously been hit with massive aerial raids in the 21-month long genocide. The IDF reportedly believes that a number of the remaining Israeli hostages are held in the city. Israeli human rights groups and some relatives of hostages responded to this weeks offensive against the city by noting that it again shows that the Israeli regime has no interest in repatriating the hostages and is simply using them as a pretext for the war on Gaza. Because it had been relatively unscathed, Deir al-Balah had become a refuge for tens of thousands of civilians forced to flee other parts of Gaza. Several international aid organisations headquartered their operations in the city for the same reason. As the IDF launched a massive aerial bombardment, tank incursion and shelling of the city Monday, they were a central target. The World Health Organisations (WHO) main warehouse was bombed as were the residential quarters of its staff. WHO employees and their families were then handcuffed and stripped by IDF soldiers, with four being detained. The WHO was compelled to evacuate its staff, effectively crippling its operations. The invasion of Deir al-Balah is part of a broader escalation of the Israeli offensive. 13 of the Palestinians killed yesterday died in an IDF shelling of tents for displaced families at the al-Shati refugee camp north of Gaza City. The escalation underscores the fraud of claims by the major imperialist powers and much of the Western press that a new ceasefire agreement may be imminent. To cover over their complicity in the unfolding horrors, the leaders of 25 countries issued a statement this week criticising the killing of civilians, including aid seekers, and the enforced starvation. The countries which issued the call for Israel to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law are either directly arming the IDF to commit the genocide, such as the UK and Australia, or have politically backed it throughout. Such statements present the atrocities in Gaza in isolation, and as the result of excesses, rather than deliberate policy. In reality, the aim of Israel since October, 2023 has been to ethnically cleanse the Gaza Strip, as part of a final solution to the Palestinian problem, and an attempt to redraw the geopolitical map of the Middle East in partnership with American imperialism. The same countries issuing crocodile tears either openly hailed or tacitly endorsed the expansion of this program in the US airstrikes on Iran last month. The intensified offensive against Gaza has gone hand in hand with stepped-up Israeli operations in the West Bank, where at least 1,000 Palestinians have been murdered since the genocide began. Over the past 24 hours, the IDF has raided the Amari refugee camp, having earlier stormed the Sateh Marhaba neighbourhood in nearby Ramallah. The ongoing regionwide war was the subject of a meeting between Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz and the IDFs top generals on Tuesday night. The Jerusalem Post reported that Katz told the military chiefs that actions had to be taken to resolve Gaza in line with aggressive offensive policy, while they should also be prepared for further forceful action in the West Bank. Katz spoke of the need to deepen offensive operations against Yemen, and hailed Israels bombardment of Syria last week. He reportedly declared that Israel would consider resuming its campaign against Iran. This broader context of an eruption of imperialist militarism underscores the reality that opposition to the genocide cannot be confined to single-issue protests. Nor can such opposition go forward through appealing to the very governments responsible for the atrocities to change course. In a statement Saturday, the World Socialist Web Site called on the millions of workers and young people seeking to end the genocide to focus their attention on the expansion of the class struggle globally. It explained: A new strategy is neededone that bases the fight against the Gaza genocide on the industrial and political mobilization of the international working class. Workers all over the world are being drawn into struggle against the same ruling class that is sponsoring mass murder in Gaza. The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg has accepted the case of Bogdan Syrotiuk. Syrotiuks lawyers have based their complaint on the fact that Syrotiuks arrest on April 25, 2024 was in violation of his basic right to liberty. They argue that Bogdan, who was 25 and in poor health at the time of his arrest, at no point constituted a danger to society, had no prior criminal record, and was arrested purely for the expression of his political beliefs. Bogdan Syrotiuk in his office. Bogdan was charged with high treason under martial law, which carries a sentence of between 15 years and life in prison. In fact, Bogdan, as a leader of the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists, is a fighter for the unity of the working class in Ukraine, Russia and throughout the former Soviet Union against the present war and in political opposition to both the Zelensky and Putin regimes. All court decisions regarding Bogdans arrest and the seizure of his property were issued in language that was, with minor variations, identical to the requests by the Ukrainian Secret Service (SBU), which carried out the investigation and arrest. Bogdan has now been held in an overcrowded prison in Nikolaev for 15 months. He was only recently granted urgently needed dental treatment. The acceptance of the case by the court is an important step in the campaign to demand the release of Bogdan. It is worth stressing that the court, as an institution of European imperialism, has close ties to the Ukrainian ruling class and accepts cases against Ukraine only when the most egregious violations are undeniable. In an indication of the severity and scope of the violations of human and democratic rights in Ukraine, the country ranks among the top three countries in terms of the number of applications before the ECHR. Every year it accounts for over 15 percent of all cases lodged. However, the ECHR accepts only a small minority of complaints and delivers a final judgement in an even smaller portion. In recent years, in 99 percent of its judgements, the ECHR found the Ukrainian government to be in violation of at least one article of the European Convention on Human Rights. Apart from the non-payment of welfare, among the most frequent complaints are unfair trials, arbitrary or lengthy pretrial detention, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, restriction on freedom of assembly and abuses of the right to liberty and security of person. In March, the ECHR ruled in favor of 25 relatives of victims of the 2015 fascist massacre in Odessa. Even in a ruling that was filled with anti-Russian war propaganda, the ECHR was compelled to find that the Ukrainian state had effectively abetted the arson attack by allowing it to happen and subsequently helping to cover it up. 48 people were killed in the attack and 200 were injured. The Ukrainian government was ordered to pay the victims of the massacre. In a June ruling, the ECHR found that the Ukrainian government had violated the prohibition of inhumane and degrading treatment and the right to an effective remedy by denying the imprisoned Oleksiy Benyukh effective dental treatment in detention. During his detention, Benyukh had all of his teeth extracted for medical reasons, causing both significant pain and humiliation. Yet despite a medical diagnosis in 2019, he was denied free dentures for 19 months. Although the treatment was prescribed even by Ukrainian law, it was only through an NGO dentist that Benyukh received dentures in 2021. These cases give a faint glimpse of the forces that Bogdan Syrotiuk is up against and the dangers to which he is subject. It must be stressed that the complete subordination of the court system to the government and the emboldening of neo-Nazi forces have reached an entirely new level, qualitatively and quantitatively, since the Russian invasion of February 2022 and the transformation of Ukraine into a direct military proxy for NATOs war against Russia. Tens of thousands of workers and young people as well as journalists have been imprisoned on bogus charges. Some have died in detention, including the American-Chilean pro-Russian journalist, Gonzalo Lira who was denied necessary medical treatment. It is therefore a vital necessity that the campaign to free Bogdan now be expanded and that maximum pressure be exerted on the ECHR to review and rule on his case as quickly as possible. By any legal standards, the case against him should have already been dropped and Bogdan released. The only evidence cited by the prosecution in its indictment are articles Bogdan wrote and translated for the World Socialist Web Site, and pamphlets and statements by the International Committee of the Fourth International. This was not state treason, but the exercise of his basic right to freedom of expression and freedom of thought. The claim by the prosecution that the World Socialist Web Site is a Russian propaganda and information agency is a transparent lie, disproven by the entire documentary record that the prosecution tries to use to indict Bogdan. In several sessions before a Ukrainian court in Bogdans hometown of Pervomaisk since January, the prosecution has failed to bolster its case. In a court session on June 25, the prosecution invited an expert and a former comrade of Bogdan, both of whom failed to provide evidence for the charges of state treason. During the session, one of Bogdans lawyers was not admitted to the proceedings via video. She has since issued a complaint since this clearly violated her right to question the prosecutions witnesses. Further evidence of an unfair trial emerged in the last session on July 22, when the court rejected a request by one of Bogdans lawyers to provide him with a translator to translate into Russian the court proceedings, which are held in Ukrainian. Russian is the main language Bogdan has used since his childhood. The WSWS re-issues its call upon its readers and all supporters of democratic rights and opponents of war to fight for the release of Bogdan Syrotiuk. Sign the petition and donate to the campaign! Circulate information about the case as widely as possible! Demand that the ECHR expedite its review of the case of Bogdan and other political prisoners of the Zelensky regime! For the immediate release of Bogdan and all political prisoners! Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., talks to reporters after a closed-door meeting with fellow Republicans to find agreement on a spending bill, at the Capitol in Washington. [AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite] Amid a mounting crisis of the Trump administration over the cover-up of the Jeffrey Epstein affair, House Speaker Mike Johnson (Republican of Louisiana) announced Tuesday he was cutting short the current session of the House of Representatives in order to block a vote on compelling the Justice Department to release investigative files on the late financier and sexual trafficker in underage girls. Johnson, who one week ago called on the Justice Department to release the files, said votes scheduled for Thursday would be cancelled, and lawmakers would return to their districts early Wednesday for the annual summer recess, set to last until September. He and President Trump were scrambling to block consideration of a bipartisan resolution, signed onto by 12 House Republicans, that would compel the Attorney General to release the FBI files on Epstein. With much of the MAGA base up in arms over the administrations flip flop on previous pledges to release the Epstein files, Republican lawmakers are caught in a bind between triggering reprisals from the White House should they vote to release the files and losing support among their voters should they oppose it. More fundamentally, the Epstein case, six years after the perpetrator was found dead in his Manhattan jail cell, officially ruled a suicide, is a crisis of the entire political system. A multi-millionaire fixture in corporate and political circles, Epstein ran a vast network in which hundreds of teenage girls were procured for abuse by the rich and famous. His activities expose the criminality and depravity of the entire ruling elite. His associates included titans of finance, politicians of both parties, including Trump and Democratic ex-President Bill Clinton, and celebrities such as Britains Prince Andrew. He carried out his global operations via some of the biggest banks, including JPMorgan Chase, Deutsche Bank and Bank of America. It is estimated that some 1,000 young girls were sexually exploited by Epstein and his wealthy clients, but not a single one of the hundreds who abused the victims has been named, let alone prosecuted. The Epstein scandal has become the focal point of a profound political and social crisis rooted in the crisis of the capitalist system. Social anger is mounting as the fascistic Trump administration, with the compliance of the Democratic Party, guts all that remains of the social safety net, making living conditions intolerable for tens of millions of workers. At the same time there is surging opposition to Trumps pogrom against immigrants, his support for genocide in Gaza and war against Russia, and his erection of a presidential dictatorship. Even the poll numbers reflect the increasing isolation and unpopularity of the government. The Democrats, despite their verbal efforts to profit from the disarray of the Trump administration and the GOP, are no less fearful of releasing the Epstein files than their Republican counterparts. They reacted with barely a whimper to the early shutdown of the House, even though, with 12 Republicans on board, they have the votes to pass the resolution co-sponsored by Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, a Democrat from California. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries issued no public statement and had nothing on social media on Johnsons move, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer posted on X a denunciation of Trump for showing his weakness to the Chinese Communist Party over trade in computer chips. Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena Ghislaine Maxwell, the socialite and longtime partner of Epstein, for a deposition. Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence on a sex trafficking conviction. And on Tuesday, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said he was reaching out to Maxwells lawyers to see if Maxwell would meet with Justice Department officials to discuss the Epstein case. He said he anticipated meeting with Maxwell in the coming days. Trump is flailing about with increasing desperation in an attempt to suppress the furor within Republican ranks over his refusal to release the FBIs Epstein files. His administration announced this week that it was removing the Wall Street Journal from the press pool for his upcoming trip to Scotland. This followed last weeks front-page article in the Journal citing a 2003 birthday card Trump send to Epstein in which Trump outlined the figure of a nude woman and alluded to secrets the two shared. Trump has sued the Journal and its owner Rupert Murdoch for $10 billion, opening himself up to the possibility of having to testify under oath in a deposition about his relations with the sex trafficker in underage girls. In a frenzied attempt to change the subject from Epstein and go on the offensive against the Democrats, Trump at a White House press conference Tuesday accused former President Barack Obama of treason for backing the probe beginning in 2016 of alleged Russian interference in that years election, supposedly against Democrat Hillary Clinton and in favor of Trump. Questioned by reporters while sitting side by side with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Trump responded to a question on the Justice Departments announcement of a possible meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell. He said he knew little about that, called the Epstein controversy a witch-hunt, and then shifted to the witch-hunt you should be talking about. He accused former FBI Director James Comey, former CIA Director John Brennan, Obama (whom he referred to as Barack Hussein Obama) and others of illegally conspiring against him. After what they did to meright or wrongits time to go after people, he said. Calling Obama the leader of the gang, he continued, Hes guilty. ... This was treason. This followed a July 18 press release by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who wrote: The information we are releasing today clearly shows there was a treasonous conspiracy in 2016 committed by officials at the highest level of our government. Their goal was to subvert the will of the American people and enact what was essentially a years-long coup with the objective of trying to usurp the President from fulfilling the mandate bestowed upon him by the American people. Gabbard said she would refer the officials to the Justice Department for prosecution. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr met with President Donald Trump in the White House Tuesday to discuss tariffs, trade relations, and preparations for war with China. The meeting in the Oval Office was part of a series of meetings held in Washington between the Philippine delegation and leading US officials, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meets US President Donald Trump in the White House, July 22, 2025. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon] The visit by Marcos to the United States was the first official trip by a Southeast Asian leader to the United States during Trumps second term. The announcement by the Trump administration in April of a slate of tariffs imposed on nearly every country on the planet has thrown governments in the Southeast Asian region, like the rest of the world, into a state of uncertainty and panic. In April, the Trump White House announced that it would be imposing a 17 percent tariff on Philippines exports to the United States. While a potentially devastating blow to the Philippine export economy, it was significantly less than the tariffs threatened to be imposed on other countries throughout the region. The Philippines exported $14 billion worth of commodities to the United States in 2024. The United States is the Philippines largest trading partner and is the leading destination for Philippine exports, accounting for nearly 17 percent of all Philippine exports. Trump temporarily paused the threatened April tariff. Then, without any explanation for the altered rate, on July 9, the White House issued a letter to Manila informing it that the Philippines would be subject to a 20 percent tariff. Marcos responded by announcing that he would be traveling to the White House at Trumps invitation. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) held a meeting on July 16, in which Marcos declared: The Philippines needs the US; we cannot live without them. The meeting made a recommended list of concessions to offer the US to secure a reduction in the threatened tariff. The terms of any deal struck by Trump and Marcos on Tuesday are not yet public. However, the terms proposed in the July 16 memo of the DTI are colonial in character, giving US business interests nearly limitless access to the countrys resources and economy. The proposals included giving the US preferential access to Philippine reserves of nickel, cobalt and copper, the elimination of nearly all Philippine tariffs on US goods, import commitments favoring US exports, and approving special access to American firms in the vital areas of energy, infrastructure, and mineral resources. There was a somewhat performative character to the affair: the increase, for unspecified reasons, of 3 percent to the threatened tariff, the hastily agreed upon concessions, many of which trample upon provisions in the Philippine Constitution defending national economic sovereignty, and the trip to Washington. After his meeting with Marcos, Trump announced on social media that the United States had concluded a trade deal with the Philippines, imposing a 19 percent tariff on Philippine exports to the US. The Philippines he claimed was giving the US open access to its markets and imposing zero tariffs on US exports. As with the recently announced trade deals with Vietnam and Indonesia, the actual deal has not been made public, nor have any the concrete details been published. Alongside the economic negotiations, were discussions of the ongoing preparations for war with China, discussions pitched as being about the security of the Indo-Pacific theater. Hegseth told the press during his meeting with Marcos that the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the United States and the Philippines, signed in 1951, committed the two countries to mutual defense in response to any actions taken against either countrys forces including our Coast Guard, anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea. This expansive language is nowhere to be found in the MDT which mentions neither the South China Sea, nor the Coast Guard. Hegseths statement was calculated to bring the repeated and dangerous confrontations between Philippine and Chinese Coast Guard vessels in the disputed waters of the South China Sea within the ambit of the MDTs terms of war. Over the past two years, abetted by Marcos, Washington has dramatically increased its military provocations and escalatory preparations for war with China in the Philippines. It has established nearly 10 military bases in the country. It has deployed troops and weapons systems to the Philippines, including the Typhon missile system with the capacity to launch missiles over much of mainland China. Using aerial and marine drone systems, US troops secretly supervise and coordinate each of the Philippines confrontations with Chinese vessels in the South China Sea. The Philippines has begun military and strategic preparations to go to war with China in the event of an invasion of Taiwan, preparations that are a matter of public discussion. The tariffs threatened by the Trump White House are the desperate, bullying politics of US imperialism, which aims to shore up its own economic weakness by dominating the economies of countries around the globe, while at the same time seeking to array them into a war camp against China. The drive to dominate, however, threatens to hasten a realignment of geopolitical interests away from Washington. Every country throughout Southeast Asia feels this pressure and the politics of the region are increasingly torn asunder by it. This phenomenon is particularly marked in the Philippines, the former colony of the United States. A political civil war is raging between rival factions of the elite, those aligned with former President Rodrigo Duterte and those with Marcos. Duterte has been arrested and stands trial in the Hague for crimes against humanity; his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, faces an impeachment trial in the Senate. Despite all of this, their political backing among significant sections of the elite remains strong. Behind all of the scandals and infighting are Washingtons preparations for war with China. Duterte sought to reorient Philippine economic ties toward China and attempted to do so by distancing the Philippines from Washingtons warmongering. Marcos, on taking office in 2022, reoriented the Philippines back to the United States. This was openly discussed in the Oval Office on Tuesday. Trump remarked, I know you had some problems with another president [meaning Duterte], and it was not your fault. It was the president's fault, and the country was maybe tilting toward China. But we untilted it very, very quickly. But, you know, you had a country that was tilting toward China for a period of time. And I just don't think that would have been good for you. Trump has long-standing ties to the Marcos family. The real estate tycoon was on very chummy terms with the conjugal dictators, Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos, and met Imelda regularly at parties in New York and elsewhere. Trump told the press during his meeting with Marcos Jr that the Marcoses were a great family, great family legacy, and highly respected in this country. This great family, with the enthusiastic backing of Democratic and Republican administrations in Washington, oversaw a brutal military dictatorship that murdered more than 3,000 people, imprisoned tens of thousands without warrant, and pillaged billions of dollars from the coffers of the impoverished country. Ferdinand Marcos Jr faces over $350 million dollars in contempt of court charges in the United States for cases involving the victims of human rights abuses during his parents dictatorship. The Marcoses have always been welcomed by the White House because they served the interests of US imperialism. Marcos Sr committed Philippine troops to Americas war in Vietnam and personally received millions of dollars in secret pay-off funds from the Johnson administration for doing so. The Marcoses guaranteed the stability of the US military bases at Clark and Subic, which were instrumental in the US projection of military power in Asia. The dictatorship of the Marcoses was not merely tolerated by Washington, it was encouraged and abetted. Washington made possible the Marcos dictatorship. The justification routinely given by both Washington and Manila for the advanced preparations for war with China in the Philippines and the South China Sea is the defense of national sovereignty. But it is Washington, with the full support of the Marcos administration, that tramples on Philippine sovereignty, not Beijing. It is the United States, and not China, that exercises extra-territorial sovereignty over military bases in the country, deploys long-range missiles on Philippine soil, and bullies the Philippines into opening its economy to exploitation by American business interests. Volodymyr Zelensky [AP Photo/Ukrainian Presidential Press Office] Last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky undertook the largest shakeup of top government officials since the NATO-backed proxy war between Ukraine and Russia began in February 2022. Zelensky has officially appointed a new prime minister along with reshuffling several other top cabinet positions. The primary aim of the government shakeup is to solidify Kievs ties with the US administration of Donald Trump. US imperialism is still Ukraines most important military backer. Yulia Svyrydenko, 39, was confirmed as the countrys new prime minister on Thursday and will replace former Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who has served as prime minister since 2020. Shmyhal will remain part of the Zelensky government as the newly appointed defense minister. Svyrydenko previously served as first deputy prime minister and minister of economic development and trade. She played the leading role in negotiating the critical minerals deal this past spring between Ukraine and the Trump administration that saw Ukraine hand over vast sections of its economy to US imperialism in exchange for continued military aid in the war against Russia. She was the key and the only person leading these negotiations. She managed to prevent them from unraveling, said Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former economy minister who previously worked with Svyrydenko. The eventual signing of the agreement came at a critical time for the Zelensky administration, less than two months after a disastrous public White House meeting between Zelensky and Trump. While initially intended for the signing of an earlier version of the minerals deal agreement, the meeting ended in a shouting match between the Ukrainian and US presidents. Plans to sign the deal were scrapped, and Zelensky was ejected from the White House following a public dressing down by both Trump and US Vice President JD Vance for failing to be sufficiently indebted to his US backers. Apart from her experience with the Trump administration, Svyrydenko is reported to be a Zelensky loyalist and friendly with Zelenskys closest aide Andriy Yermak. She has also earned praise from the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine for her management of the Ukrainian economy. In addition to a new prime minister and switching Shmyhal to defense minister, Zelensky removed Oksana Markarova as Ukraines ambassador to the US. She had been criticized by Republican leaders due to her ties to the Biden administration and in particular Victoria Nuland, Bidens undersecretary of state for political affairs. Underlining the commanding role of the US over the Zelensky regime, Zelensky had previously announced his intentions to appoint outgoing Defense Minister Rustem Umerov as the US ambassador, but that move was reportedly nixed by Washington, according to opposition MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak. Instead, Olha Stefanishyna, Ukraines former deputy prime minister for European integration, will become the countrys ambassador to the US, Zelensky announced last Thursday. Despite a concerted effort to remake a cabinet dedicated to pleasing the Trump government, Zelenskys political standing in Washington is still very much in question, according to recent reports. On Friday, investigative journalist Seymour Hersh reported that US officials have tired of Zelensky and could move to have him replaced within a few months by former top General Valery Zaluzhny. Now ambassador to the UK, Zaluzhny has long had extensive ties to the far right. Nearly a year and a half following his dismissal in February 2024, he remains one of the most popular figures in Ukraine and well connected within NATO. As Hersh reported on Substack: Zaluzhnyi is now seen as the most credible successor to Zelensky. I have been told by knowledgeable officials in Washington that that job could be his within a few months. Zelensky is on a short list for exile, if President Donald Trump decides to make the call. If Zelensky refuses to leave his office, as is most likely, an involved US official told me: Hes going to go by force. The ball is in his court. There are many in Washington and in Ukraine who believe that the escalating air war with Russia must end soon, while theres still a chance to make a settlement with its president, Vladimir Putin. Hershs article echoes a recent report in the Financial Times that despite renewing arms shipments to Ukraine, Ukraines European backers are still assuming Trump was predisposed to seeing Putin as his main negotiating partner in any settlement and Zelensky as the primary obstacle to a workable peace deal. Apart from his shaky relationship with Trump, there are also indications that Zelensky has alienated sections of the Ukrainian ruling class. Amid mounting social discontent and fatigue with the war, they view Zelenskys continued rule as a threat to their own interests. One recent article by the British Spectator titled Ukrainians have lost faith in Zelensky noted that a recent spate of arrests and searches against Zelensky loyalists suggest serious political infighting at the heart of the Kyiv government. The article continued to quote a former senior official in Zelenskys administration as saying, If the war continues soon there will be no Ukraine left to fight for, and stated that Zelensky was prolonging the war to hold on to power. A recent poll showed that 70 percent of Ukrainians believe that their leaders use the war to enrich themselves. Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians have been killed in the war so far, with many more maimed and wounded. Amid the cabinet reshuffle last week, Zelensky once again submitted to parliament to continue martial law and military mobilization for another 90 days, which was first implemented in February 2022. Under these measures, tens of thousands of Ukrainian citizens such as the Trotskyist youth leader Bogdan Syrotiuk have been imprisoned, thousands of Ukrainian men have been dragged to the front by press gangs and over 6.8 million people have fled the country, the majority of whom will never return. Should the measure pass, it will mark the 16th extension of martial law and mobilization under Zelensky, whose presidential term was originally scheduled to end in May 2024. Bronwyn Wake (2nd L), chief editor of the journal Nature Climate Change, and Kannan Govindan (3rd L), a professor at the University of Adelaide in Australia, attend the International Conference on Climate Leadership in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, July 22, 2025. (Harbin Institute of Technology/Handout via Xinhua) HARBIN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Despite it being her first academic visit to Harbin, capital of China's northernmost Heilongjiang Province, Bronwyn Wake, chief editor of the journal Nature Climate Change, was immediately blown away by the professionalism of the Chinese scholars. China possesses a robust community of scholars dedicated to the governance of climate change and understanding its economic impacts, Wake said, expressing her anticipation for greater Chinese wisdom in global cooperation efforts in these fields. Wake came to Harbin Institute of Technology to attend the International Conference on Climate Leadership, joining experts from countries including the United Kingdom and Spain. During the conference, they engaged in deliberations on issues such as international climate cooperation and low-carbon technological innovation. Wake said that Nature Climate Change covers a wide range of topics, such as the climate system, biological science, climate change, and related policies, on which Chinese researchers have delivered a body of exceptional research. She noted that Chinese scholars have not only explored ways to advance domestic climate governance but also contributed valuable solutions that enhance cooperation in global climate change. The research forms the foundation for effective, coordinated climate policies. "China has always played an important role in international climate negotiations, such as the Paris Agreement," Wake said, expressing the hope that China will continue to drive the global climate agenda and support international cooperation. In the view of Kannan Govindan, a professor at the University of Adelaide in Australia, China's thriving renewable energy sector serves as a crucial pillar in support of global climate action. Govindan noted that as extreme weather increasingly disrupts the reliability of global supply chains, China's rapidly advancing clean energy technologies -- such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric power plants -- are not only lowering global energy production costs but also supporting infrastructure development in various countries. As a result, this strengthens the resilience of supply chains. He further noted that beyond developing clean energy technologies, China is advancing climate-resilient infrastructure through pilot initiatives for eco-cities and sponge cities, which are unique climate governance practices that have garnered global scholarly attention. China has put in place a robust policy framework for carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, with tailored implementation plans spanning energy, industry, transportation, commerce, construction and other sectors, said Yuan Jiashuang, deputy director of China's National Climate Center, during the event. According to the National Energy Administration, as of the end of June, China's installed capacity for wind power generation has reached 570 million kilowatts, up 22.7 percent year on year, while solar power capacity rose 54.2 percent year on year to 1.1 billion kilowatts. Climate change-driven impacts such as altered water resource distribution and increased extreme weather events have exerted far-reaching effects on economies and societies, said Ma Chaode, assistant resident representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in China. Against the backdrop, China's carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals have offered a roadmap for global climate governance, Ma said. Ma looks forward to seeing China continue to exert its influence in technology and funding in the future, and propel the global community to meet carbon emission goals by advancing technological innovation, fostering new mindsets, boosting financial investment and raising public awareness. Bronwyn Wake, chief editor of the journal Nature Climate Change, speaks during the International Conference on Climate Leadership in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, July 21, 2025. (Harbin Institute of Technology/Handout via Xinhua) MOSCOW, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Russia has substantially expanded its entry ban list of representatives of EU institutions and member states, as well as other European countries, the Russian foreign ministry said Tuesday. The list includes members of law enforcement agencies, government and commercial organisations, and citizens of EU member countries and other Western countries responsible for "supplying military aid to Kiev, facilitating deliveries of dual-purpose products to Ukraine, engaging in activities aimed at undermining Russia's territorial integrity, or organising blockades against Russian vessels and cargo in the Baltic Sea," said the ministry in a statement in response to the EU's 17th and 18th packages of sanctions against Russia. It includes representatives of EU bodies, national authorities of EU countries and other European states involved in politically motivated prosecution of Russian officials for alleged "illegal detentions and deportations from Ukrainian territory," those supporting the creation of a so-called "tribunal" against the Russian leadership, and advocates of confiscating Russian state assets or redirecting revenues from them to the benefit of Kiev, it said. The list also covers individuals responsible for drafting or enforcing anti-Russia sanctions, those attempting to damage Russia's relations with other states, outspoken Russophobic activists and representatives of the academic community, as well as EU and European Parliament deputies who have voted for anti-Russia resolutions and draft laws, it added. "Further sanctions-related decisions by the EU will also be met with a timely and appropriate response," said the ministry. The Council of the European Union approved the 17th and 18th packages of sanctions on Russia on May 20 and July 18, respectively. The 18th package of sanctions blacklisted over 50 individuals and entities. The price cap for Russian oil was reduced from 60 U.S. dollars to 47.6 U.S. dollars per barrel. The EU also banned the import of petroleum products made of Russian oil. TEHRAN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Two border guards were killed and another one injured in an attack by members of a "hostile and counter-revolutionary" group on a border outpost in Iran's western province of Kurdestan, the semi-official Fars news agency reported. The attack was carried out on a border outpost in Baneh County on Tuesday night when the border guards were on a patrol mission, Faraj Rostami, the province's border guards' commander, said on Wednesday. He identified the victims, who were shot during the attack by the assailants, as Sajjad Adib and Ali Bodagh. The commander added that the "hostile" group's members sought to enter the country but were forced to retreat after facing the Iranian border guards' heavy fire. Here at theFashionSpot, we ride hard for Harpers Bazaar Spain. After all, names like Carla Bruni, Gal Gadot, Cate Blanchett, Jourdan Dunn, and Elsa Pataky have graced the Spanish title over recent months and the magazine only goes from strength to strength. Inma Jimenez Mateos, who has served as editor-in-chief since 2019, welcomes models Carmen Kass and Brandi Quinones as Harpers Bazaar Spain cover girls for July/August 2025. The icons of the modeling industry are each granted two separate covers for the occasion, with Kass captured by Rocio Ramos and Quinones appearing before the lens of photographer Alvaro Gracia. Carmen Kass & Brandi Quinones for Harpers Bazaar Spain July/August 2025 IMAGES | HARPERSBAZAAR.COM/ES Read below the reactions of theFashionSpots forum members: I like the retro vibe, immediately admired kokobombon upon checking out the covers. The queens are back and better than ever! exclaimed vogue22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oh, this is great! They look good! Lola701 chimed in. Xone commented: I love both covers. Wow, Brandi Quinones! Love her first cover and the vintage mood of it! What a lovely, pleasant surprise! Way to go Harpers Bazaar Spain. The cover with Brandi Quinones in the Valentino is spectacular, and easily one of the best covers Ive come across this month. I love the sense of retro and how much joy it radiates. Brandi looks spectacular! voiced vogue28. Bertrando3 shared the same sentiments, adding: OHHHH Brandi looks awesome in that second cover! Love these girls. Its so good to see so many top models from the past still active! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I love seeing both of the models, especially Carmen Kass. Great casting and covers, MModa applauded. See more of Carmen Kass and Brandi Quinones from the Harpers Bazaar Spain July/August 2025 cover shoot and join the conversation, here. The post Carmen Kass & Brandi Quinones Make for Harpers Bazaar Spains Surprise July/August 2025 Cover Girls appeared first on theFashionSpot. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and a pioneer of heavy metal, died July 22 at age 76, just weeks after reuniting with Black Sabbath for a final show in England. As fans around the world reflect on his life and career, one lighthearted moment from 2018 stands out in the Southwest. During filming for the A&E television show "Ozzy and Jacks World Detour," Osbourne visited Hatch, New Mexico, with his children, Jack and Kelly. The episode, titled Kelly Makes Three, featured the family stopping at Sparkys, a popular roadside restaurant known for its green chile cheeseburgers. As Osbourne entered the restaurant, he was greeted by a mariachi band from Las Cruces, Mariachi Aguilas, performing a Spanish-language version of Paranoid, one of Black Sabbaths most iconic songs. The surprise was arranged by Jack and Kelly as a tribute to their fathers musical legacy and to celebrate the local culture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mariachi Aguilas Director Juan de la Cruz told the Las Cruces Sun-News in 2018 he received a phone call from the show's producer asking his band to play for Ozzy. De la Cruz said he immediately agreed. They also agreed to cover a Black Sabbath song. Osbourne appeared visibly moved by the performance, thanking the musicians and praising their rendition. The moment was captured on camera and aired as part of the shows third season, offering fans a rare glimpse of the rock icon enjoying a quiet, joyful moment with his family. It was an experience of a lifetime. Just to know that a famous heavy metal artist came to our little town and to be able to play his song in a different language, theres just no words to explain it, De la Cruz said in 2018. After we finished, he shook my hand and asked me how long it took to translate it. I told him it took about a week and he was very impressed because it took him longer than a week just to write the song. Ozzy Osbourne photographed at White Sands Osbourne has also shared photos in the past to reminisce about his time in New Mexico, including a post in his distinctive round, vintage glasses and typical black attire against the bright backdrop of white dunes at White Sands National Park in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He credited music photographer Ross Halfin for taking the picture and shared it on Feb. 28. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Ozzy Osbournes mariachi welcome during a New Mexico restaurant visit The modern dating scene is not a healthy one. Perhaps it never really was and everyone is nostalgic for something that didnt exist. But you dont need to be on the apps to sense the anxiety around. Just open the New York Times Magazine site and scroll through the 1,200 comments on Jean Garnetts The Trouble With Wanting Men, in which she examines unfulfilled desire and the idea of heterofatalism. We wonder what happened to the romantic comedy. Maybe were all to blame. How can we have fun with stories about romance when it is so bleak out there? But thank goodness for the filmmakers who are trying to, if not make sense of it all, talk about it. Celine Song did it in her own way with Materialists. And now comes Sophie Brooks Oh, Hi! about a new-ish couple on their first weekend away together. These movies are not at all similar, and yet both speak to the current mood in valuable ways. In Oh, Hi! Iris (Molly Gordon) and Isaac (Logan Lerman) seem to be very much in sync as a pair, singing in the car together, laughing about a little accident that results in the purchase of hundreds of strawberries and excitedly exploring the very nice house theyve rented for this romantic getaway. The chemistry is there: There's humor, wit, conversation and attraction. Theyre even on the same page on more intimate matters. It is a terrific opening nothing is really happening, and yet its pleasant to just be in the moment with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But then things take a turn. We know theyre headed south from the first frame, when a distraught Iris greets her friend Max (Geraldine Viswanathan) at the country home late one night. Were trained to expect that its all leading to a fight, or a breakup. Oh, Hi!, however, has other things up its sleeve. Note to new couples: Best not to define a relationship while one is chained to the bed after a bit of experimentation. Granted, neither thought they needed to have this conversation, but it quickly becomes clear that they both heard things differently. Iris thought they were exclusive. Isaac thought it was perfectly clear that they werent and aren't. But why, Iris asks, are they doing this at all after four months? Why are they on this trip? Why did he make her scallops? Its enough to make anyone go a little mad, which Iris does, deciding that shes going to keep Isaac chained up until they talk it through to her satisfaction. Its a kind of over-the-top, Misery-styled meditation on entrenched gender cliches in heterosexual dating. The women are crazy and needy. The men are jerks and aloof. And no amount of rational discussion on either side will end the stalemate. Iris believes that if he just gets to know her a little better, perhaps hell change his mind. She goes long on her biography in a funny little sequence, but the monologuing doesnt help Isaac figure out how to escape. It just goes on. Oh, Hi! follows this path to extreme ends as Iris involves Max and her boyfriend Kenny (John Reynolds), who are all trying to figure out how to get out of the situation without going to jail. Its admirable how ardently they commit to making this outlandish premise as realistic as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The film loses the plot a bit when Max and Kenny get involved and things get extra silly. It might have been better had it stayed with Iris and Isaac to the bitter end. Gordon, who co-wrote the story with Brooks, is a huge reason it works at all. She somehow keeps Iris grounded and relatable throughout, which is no small feat after she makes her big mistake. At times, that epic misstep made me think that Oh, Hi! might be the female Friendship. And while Lerman gets substantially less to do, you come out feeling for both characters, trapped in anxieties of their own making and a social structure in which neither romance nor commitment seems to be a priority. At least this film lets us laugh about it a little bit. And lest you think people in relationships have it easier, just wait until Together arrives next week. Oh, Hi! a Sony Pictures Classics release in theaters Friday, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association for language, sexual content and some nudity. Running time: 94 minutes. Three stars out of four. Things are heating up on The Bold and the Beautiful with the return of Jack Wagner as Nick, whos trying to woo Brooke. Shes fixated on Ridge, and Nick wants to break that vicious cycle. While all that is going on, Katherine Kelly Lang is living her best life outside of playing Brooke. On social media, shes been sharing the various magazine covers that shes appeared on, and now has new posts where she answers the fans burning questions. She Teased More To Come Lang created a live video on Instagram where she fielded fan questions as she autographed various photos of herself from the show. She informed the fans where they could obtain those pics, and added, Oops the live froze! . Hope you still had fun watching! One fan from abroad lovingly commented, Wonderful WomanGreetings from Germany! When asked if she had any projects beyond B&B that were coming out soon, she responded, Yes, I always have ideas, and Im always kind of collaborating with people to do other things in the future. Theres a few things that are happening. She added, If they come to fruition, I will let you know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ THIS: Find out what to watch for on B&B. Swedens on Her List With regard to her magazine covers, one fan asked if she would be going to Sweden after appearing on the cover of Grazia Swedens ICON issue. She remarked, I would love to go to Sweden. I have not been to Sweden, actually, but I would love to visit, and who knows, maybe in the near future that might be possible. Lang also addressed the Brooke/Ridge/Nick complexities, but was hesitant to share too many details for fear of giving away spoilers. However, she did note that Nick was, giving Ridge a little bit of competition, so well see what happens there, and added, Its definitely fun to reconnect with Jack. (Find out what Lang thinks is keeping the show engaging.) Nicole Kidmans niece has revealed that shes currently in between jobs after packing up and making the risky move to London. Lucia Hawley, 26, had recently made the big move from Australia to the UK, but admitted that shes finding it difficult to get situated without a steady income. In her latest Substack blog, the former presenter who quit as host of 7Bravo Down Under detailed her how shes getting on with her new life in England. Nicole Kidmans niece, Lucia Hawley, has revealed that shes currently in between jobs after packing up and making the risky move to London. @luchhawley/Instagram On June 18, I officially made the move to London. On paper, this is a totally stupid decision, and honestly, frightens me (someone hire me pls), Hawley wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am risk-averse, which means my body quite literally rejects the idea of both moving overseas and being unemployed. Hawley admitted that she found it traumatic to part ways with her boyfriend Henry, and her younger siblings. Saying goodbye to Henry was incredibly difficult (I am traumatized by airport goodbyes). Even harder were the goodbyes to my family I kissed my little brothers through floods of tears, she wrote. The 26-year-old had recently vacationed in Croatia with her famous aunt and mom Antonia. @luchhawley/Instagram Still, Hawley admitted that while it was a scary trigger to pull, she ultimately knew that moving was the right decision for her. It is exciting and freeing and kind of what life is all about, she went on. I believe home to be a feeling Having a strong network of people who support you is what truly enables you to navigate the world with confidence and self-assurance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to her move, Hawley served as the host of 7Bravo in Australia. Hawley had recently made the big move from Australia to the UK, but admitted that shes finding it difficult to get situated without a steady income. @luchhawley/Instagram Following her departure, the show announced in December that former Bachelor star Bella Varelis would take over the reins. Hawley is the eldest child of Kidmans sister Antonia, 54, and her ex-husband Angus. The TV host boasts a close friendship with the Oscar winner, as she recently returned from a lavish vacation in Croatia with her mom and the Babygirl star. Hawley shared an Instagram slideshow with snaps from the warm-weather getaway, including a photo of the three posing in long, breezy white dresses. Griswalds on tour Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement , she captioned the images. Nicole Kidman with her late mother, Janelle Ann, and niece Lucia Hawley at the 2018 AACTA Awards on Dec. 5, 2018. Getty Images for AFI She kick-started her TV career after pursuing an arts degree at the University of Sydney and interning at Vogue Australia. Hawley landed the 7Bravo hosting gig with NBC Universal in 2022. Editors note: This story was originally published in 2018 and republished after Ozzy Osbournes death on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. LAS CRUCES - Ozzy and Jack Osbourne are back for a third season of their hit A&E television show Ozzy and Jacks World Detour, and in this season, theyre showcasing southern New Mexico. The third season premiered June 13, and their fourth episode, titled Kelly Makes Three, highlights parts of Dona Ana and Otero counties, including Hatch and White Sands, which the family visited earlier this year. The episode airs at 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 11, on A&E. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the episode, the Prince of Darkness, along with his children, Jack and Kelly, pay a visit to Hatch and order New Mexicos famous green chile cheeseburgers at the popular restaurant Sparky's. Ozzy, former frontman of heavy metal band Black Sabbath, and family were welcomed to the restaurant by a mariachi band from Las Cruces, Mariachi Aguilas. Mariachi Aguilas Director Juan de la Cruz said he received a phone call from an A&E producer asking his band to play for Ozzy. De la Cruz said he immediately agreed. They also agreed to cover a Black Sabbath song. 'Paranoid' Jack and Kelly wanted to surprise Ozzy, so they set things up, De la Cruz said. Ozzy had no clue there was going to be a mariachi band playing his song. We played Paranoid, a Black Sabbath classic. It was one take, and that was it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement De la Cruz said the scene was carefully planned and was mostly prepared by the youngest Osbourne, Jack. He said Jack gave him exact instructions on what to do when Ozzy entered the room. Ozzy was trying chile shakes and enjoying the scenery and then they stopped production, De la Cruz said. As he was walking toward the other room they (Mariachi Aguilas) were playing their own song and then they broke into his song, his whole face lit up. It was priceless. De la Cruz said Ozzy told the band they did a great job covering his rock classic in Spanish. It was an experience of a lifetime. Just to know that a famous heavy metal artist came to our little town and to be able to play his song in a different language, theres just no words to explain it, De la Cruz said. After we finished, he shook my hand and asked me how long it took to translate it. I told him it took about a week and he was very impressed because it took him longer than a week just to write the song. It was such an honor to play for him. The way the Osbournes are on TV, thats how they are in real life. Theyre authentic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mariachi Aguilas are no strangers to celebrities, the band has played backup for Mexican artists such as Ana Barbara and played at an afterparty for the film Year One, which stars Jack Black and Michael Cera. De la Cruz said playing for Ozzy was one of the highlights of his musical career and said music transcends boundaries. Music is music, its art. No matter what language you speak, what background, its a form of expression and life. Its universal, De la Cruz said. We had a good time playing the song and rehearsing, were excited to see it air. Land of Enchantment According to A&Es website, the Osbournes also learned the art of chainsaw sculpting and learned how to make pistachios as they explore New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Osbournes were first spotted at White Sands National Monument sometime in February, when Jack posted two photos to his social media accounts of he and Kelly enjoying the gypsum dunes at sunset. While out and about in Alamogordo, the Osbournes visited a ranch in Laborcita Canyon (La Luz) owned by Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce Executive Director G.B. Oliver. It was reported that the legendary rock star later joined the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce as an official member. For information on "Ozzy and Jack's World Detour, visit www.aetv.com/shows/ozzy-and-jacks-world-detour Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For information on Mariachi Aguilas, visit www.mariachiaguilas.com. Jacqueline Devine can be reached at 575-541-5476, jdevine@gannett.com or @JackieIsDevine on Twitter. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Ozzy Osbourne, son Jack's visit to southern New Mexico will air on A&E When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Getty Images Princess Elisabeth of Belgium is back home for the summer break from Harvard, and on Monday, July 21, she joined parents Queen Mathilde and King Philippe and her three siblings to celebrate the country's National Day. Although she kicked off the festivities in a neon green chiffon dress, the future queen of Belgium changed into three more outfits throughout the dayand she saved the most glamorous for last. The Belgian royal family attended a service at St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral to mark the holiday, with Elisabeth choosing a caped dress from her mother's favorite designer, Natan, and an Atelier Anne Stoffels headband. She borrowed Queen Mathilde's clutch and earringsa theme she carried on throughout the day. Princess Elisabeth, seen with brother Prince Emmanuel, wore a bright green Natan dress to start the National Day festivities on July 21. | Credit: Getty Images The crown princess, walking with Princess Eleonore and Prince Emmanuel, changed into her military uniform for a National Day parade. | Credit: Getty Images She swapped looks again for a celebration in the park. | Credit: Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Elena Floral-Print Denim Midi Dress View Deal The princesswho is a second lieutenant in the Belgian Armythen changed into her Army uniform for the military and civilian parade following the church ceremony. But her outfit swaps weren't done just yet. For the National Day "Party in the Park" at Brussels Park, she wore a sleek denim shift dress by one of Princess Kate's favorite labels, Erdem, adding a friendship bracelet that read "Belgie" in the colors of Belgium's flag. Queen Mathilde's accessories once again made an appearance, with Elisabeth borrowing a pair of enamel Giorgio Armani hoop earrings from her mom. Elisabeth wore a one-shouldered Victoria Beckham dress for the evening, while sister Princess Eleonore went for a white eyelet maxi and Queen Mathilde wore a bird-print Dries Van Noten dress. | Credit: Getty Images The Belgian royals enjoyed a concert and fireworks to wrap up National Day. | Credit: Getty Images One Shoulder Draped Midi Dress Advertisement Advertisement View Deal And Elisabeth had one more outfit up her sleeve (or lack of), with the royal changing into a one-shouldered Victoria Beckham gown for a National Day concert. The white silk dress featured a blue floral pattern and an asymmetric hem, and she paired it with classic pumps andsurpriseone of Queen Mathilde's clutches. Hollywood is still reeling from the heartbreaking and sudden loss of "The Cosby Show" star Malcolm-Jamal Warner. According to multiple reports, the iconic actor, 54, died by asphyxia after drowning in Costa Rica in July 2025. Many of the industry's biggest names, including Bill Cosby and Eddie Griffin, have spoken out about the passing of Malcolm-Jamal Warner. Now, his "Cosby Show" co-star Raven-Symone is sharing her own emotional reaction to the tragic news. Raven-Symone Shares Her Heartfelt Reaction To Her 'Cosby Show' Co-Star Malcolm-Jamal Warner's Tragic Death Symone, 39, shared a video to her Instagram of a black screen with an emoji of a dove on July 22. Also on the screen were the words, "I love you." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the video, Symone, who joined the cast of "The Cosby Show" in 1989, expressed how much Warner's death has impacted her. Words cannot describe the pain and the sadness and surprise that I feel with the recent loss of MJW, the actress said in the video. He was the big brother, he was a beacon, he was one of the most multifaceted, talented men. So gentle, and my heart and soul and hugs and kisses go out to his daughter and his wife and his mother. He gave the best advice, he gave the best hugs and his smile will always be a huge, bright f-cking white smile in my head forever, Symone added. I love you, and I know youre watching over all of us now. Bye, Malcolm. Fans Share A Similar Reaction To Symone's After Learning Of Malcolm-Jamal Warner's Unfortunate Passing Malcolm-Jamal Warner was not only Black television royalty, he was a Grammy Award winning poet and talented musician in a jazz band. May he rest in peace pic.twitter.com/2uAAJ7RZM8 glyniss (@glynderella_) July 21, 2025 Since Warner's death, an outpouring of love from stars and fans alike has shown just how much he meant to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So sorry for your loss, Raven," a user wrote on Symone's Instagram post. "Malcolm was like a brother to all of us. ... 'The Cosby Show' is still one of my all-time favorite shows." Another user echoed that sentiment, writing, "I'm so sorry for your loss. Watching 'The Cosby Show' always made me feel like MJW was my brother too." A third commenter also shared the significant impact Warner's death has had on them, adding, "This is heartbreaking." Malcolm-Jamal Warner Kept His Immediate Family Out Of The Spotlight Joe Russo / MEGA As news of Warner's death spread, many have sent well-wishes to the wife and daughter he so fiercely protected from the public eye. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I talk about them because they are obviously the hugest parts of my life, the best parts of my life, the best decisions I've ever made, but I also like to keep them and their identity private," the actor said during a podcast appearance. Warner, who married later in life after years of saying he planned to be single, also explained how he wanted his romantic relationship to serve as a lesson for others. "But I also feel, I love talking about them because I want people to know that it's possible to be happy and to have love and love really be enriching. I met my wife at 45. It's ok to wait. You don't have to be in your 20s looking for your soulmate when you don't really know who the f-ck you are," he said. Celebrities Share Emotional Tributes After Warner's Shocking Passing Instagram Stories | Eddie Griffin As the industry continues to process Warner's unexpected passing, more stars have begun sharing emotional tributes in his honor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warner's "Malcolm & Eddie" co-star, Eddie Griffin, posted an image to his Instagram Stories, adding, "My Big little Brother," followed by two prayer hands and a red heart emoji. Other stars, such as Jamie Foxx, Kate Hudson, Kerry Washington, and Taraji P. Henson, also paid tribute to the iconic actor with heartfelt messages. Bill Cosby Was Deeply Impacted By The Loss Of Warner MEGA Bill Cosby also reacted to the news of Warner's death, likening it to the death of his son, Ennis Cosby. According to Us Weekly, Ennis passed away in 1997 after a botched robbery attempt in Los Angeles, California. This reminds me of the call I got when I was taping 'The Cosby Show' and I got a call saying that my son, Ennis, had been murdered, Bill said through his representative. "It's just devastating." MANAMA/BEIRUT, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa announced on Wednesday the opening of a permanent Bahraini diplomatic mission in Beirut, marking a renewal of the kingdom's full diplomatic relations with Lebanon. The announcement was made during his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who is on an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, according to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA). Both leaders reviewed bilateral ties and discussed ways to enhance cooperation across economic, security, and political fields. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing Bahraini-Lebanese relations for the mutual benefit and prosperity of their nations. Meanwhile, according to a joint statement released on Wednesday by Lebanon's presidency, the two sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in economic development, security coordination, and regional stability, pledging joint efforts to combat terrorism, boost trade, and support peaceful resolutions to ongoing regional conflicts. Security issues were central to the discussions, with both countries condemning destabilizing activities and reaffirming their determination to combat terrorism and prevent its financing. Bahrain reiterated its steadfast support for Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political reforms under Aoun's leadership. Bahrain closed its embassy in Beirut in October 2021 following controversial remarks made by former Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi regarding the war in Yemen, which were considered offensive by the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Rene Kirby, an actor and gymnast best known for his role in Shallow Hal, has died. He was 70. His brother Jon Kirby confirmed the news to local Vermont publication Seven Days, revealing his sibling, who was born with spina bifida, had esophagus, kidney and bladder issues. Rene died on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center, per the outlet, with Jon revealing that his brother had been hospitalized for two months with the above issues as well as infections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remembering Rene, Jon who lived two houses down from his brother, in Burlington, Vermont told Seven Days, "He just showed me that there's no limitations on what anyone can do." One quote he will always remember from Rene? " 'You don't have to stand up to stand out, " said Jon, who is the youngest of seven siblings, while Rene was the second-born. 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. 20th Century Fox Rene Kirby in Shallow Hal (2001) Rene Kirby in Shallow Hal (2001) Rene was born to Don and Janet Kirby in Burlington, and according to Seven Days, was often seen riding his three-wheeled bike around town up until fall 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He made waves as Walt in the 2001 comedy Shallow Hal, opposite Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow, where he had scenes with Black, 55, and Jason Alexander. Two years later, Rene appeared as Phil Rupp in another Farrelly brothers movie: Stuck on You, which starred Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear. His final screen role was in a 2005 episode of Carnivale. Aside from his film and TV roles and past in gymnastics (the latter of which earned him state titles in high school, according to Seven Days), Rene was also a swimmer, skier and carpenter, and worked for IBM for two decades, his brother Jon told the outlet. Rene and Jon's sister, Cheryl St. Amour, told Seven Days that Rene had beaten throat cancer, but his larynx had been removed as part of the treatment, so he lost his ability to talk a few years ago. He is predeceased by his father and survived by his mother and six siblings, per Seven Days. Read the original article on People Internet star Trisha Paytas is at the center of it all, once again. Fans online can't get enough of her baby names, and the conspiracy theories they're a part of. Here's how a long-running meme takes part in another major moment in history. Who is Trisha Paytas? NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 03: Trisha Paytas lights the Empire State Building in partnership with the Entertainment Community Fund in celebration of Trisha Paytas' Broadway debut at The Empire State Building on February 03, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust) Trisha Paytas is a YouTuber and podcaster whose content dates back all the way to 2007. You may also recognize her from "America's Got Talent," in 2012, when she was the Guinness World Records holder for fastest talker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, she's being linked to another famous person's death, and possible reincarnation. What is the Trisha Paytas reincarnation theory? The internet couldnt help but notice that Paytas' daughter, Malibu Barbie Paytas-Hacmon, was born just days after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, sparking memes that suggested her daughter was actually a reincarnation of the long-reigning British monarch. Queen Elizabeth IIs soul being dragged across the globe to be reincarnated as Trisha Paytas baby pic.twitter.com/Ju6aob6aEw (No) Signal (@NopeSignal) September 9, 2022 Then, in November 2023, Paytas announced her second pregnancy. The theories kicked in once again and users joked online: Will another monarch take baby number two's place? Months later, King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth's son, announced his cancer diagnosis. Fans speculated, offering morbid suggestions that the king would succumb to his illness. But, the timing for Elvis Paytas-Hacmon wasn't as serendipitous. King Charles III lives on, and no celebrity actually died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reincarnation meme also reemerged following Pope Francis death in April 2025, after Paytas had announced she was pregnant with her third child. Paytas even addressed in her podcast, Just Trish, the unhinged online theories that her baby could be Francis reincarnated, US Weekly reported. Timing didn't exactly make sense, but the internet didn't care. So, as the due date of her third child approached, fans were hungry for the theory to continue. how does a celeb die genuinely everytime trisha paytas gives birth, it's literally always on the same day sometimes even same hour and same gender too what's going on . pic.twitter.com/ND307jusLR p (@LIPAY0NCE) July 22, 2025 Did Ozzy Osbourne inspire Trisha Paytas' third baby's name? This brings us to July 22, when The Prince of Darkness, who bestowed Des Moines, Iowa, with one of the most memorable concerts in music history, died at age 76. Ozzy Osbourne's family announced his death just hours after Trisha Paytas announced the birth of her third child: Aquaman Moses Paytas-Hacmon. And when fans found out Aquaman was actually born July 12, they still didn't care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Ozzy Osbourne, who shocked Iowans by biting the head off a bat at 1982 concert, dies at 76 And that's not all. Just weeks before his death, Osbourne performed what would be his final concert in his hometown of Birmingham, England. The show was hosted by Iowa native and actor Jason Momoa. Momoa's best-known role? Aquaman. Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: A Trisha Paytas-Ozzy Osbourne connection? Fans are 'unhinged' she says "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" is one of Food Networks most popular series, taking viewers from coast to coast to visit some of Americas classic "greasy spoon" restaurants. The shows host, Guy Fieri, is one of the most recognizable celebrity chefs, as well as a restaurateur. Since its premiere in 2007, "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" has featured hundreds of eateries, including several in Vermont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And with season 51 of the series having ended in June of 2025, we thought wed take a look back at the six Vermont eateries featured on the show. While one of the restaurants has closed since its episode aired, the majority remain open for business. Bluebird Barbecue, Burlington Where: 317 Riverside Ave. About: Sporting crispy brussels, tofu burnt ends and charred broccoli Caesar salad on its menu, Bluebird Barbecue not only caters to the meat-lovers in the area but also the vegans and vegetarians as well. For those who desire the classics, Bluebird offers small and big portions of sliced brisket, pulled pork and spare ribs. Butch & Babe's, Burlington (Closed) Where: 258 N Winooski Ave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About: Despite closing in 2021, the impact that Butch & Babe's had on Old North End's dining scene is still being felt today. With menu items like the Hot Dog Mac and Cheese Pancakes and Elote Corndog, The restaurant served zany comfort food in a burgeoning corridor of Burlington that would later hit its stride as a competitive "foodie" neighborhood of the city. The Citizen Cider press house - and future location of its pub and production facility - off Flynn Avenue in Burlington near Switchback Brewing Co., shown March 7, 2025. Citizen Cider, Burlington Where: 180 Flynn Ave. Building 2 About: Citizen Cider is currently working on opening its new location on Flynn Avenue in August of 2025 after closing their Pine Street location in April. The pub is known for their wings brined in sparkling cider and the "As Gouda As It Gets Burger." Hong's Chinese Dumplings opened a brick-and-mortar store on the corner of Pearl and Pine streets in 2018, after selling food out of a cart on Church Street for 18 years. Hong's Chinese Dumplings, Burlington Where: 77 Pearl St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About: Open only on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for pick-up only, Hong's Chinese Dumplings is a staple of Burlington cuisine. Menu items range from the scallion pancakes to the classic pork dumplings. With the current management looking to sell the business, this could be your last chance to taste the original Hong's Chinese Dumplings with Hong Yu as the owner. Three different tacos at Taco Gordo. Taco Gordo, Burlington Where: 208 N Winooski Ave. About: If you want a taste of authentic California Mexican food without flying out to LAX, then Taco Gordo might be the place for you. On the menu, Taco Gordo offers tinga, carnitas and al pastor tacos as well as an absolutely stacked Gordo Burrito Supreme. Mushroom lasagna with eggplant bacon crumbles at Pingala Cafe in Burlington, on Tuesday, January 30, 2018. Pingala Cafe, Burlington Where: 1 Mill St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About: An all-vegan restaurant, Pingala Cafe has much to offer on its menu even for non-vegan eaters who are just looking for a delicious meal to eat. Their menu includes items like the Brunch Crunch Wrap, a crunch wrap that has cheesy sauce, house hashbrown, tofu, smoked carrot "bakin'" (a vegan equivalent of bacon), everything seasoning, "N'Avocado" mash, pickled jalapenos and a corn tostada. Jennie Oemig contributed to the reporting of this story. Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: 6 VT restaurants have been on 'Diners, Drive-ins and Dives' List Originally appeared on E! Online Amy Duggar King is well aware she was once considered the "crazy cousin" on reality TV. After all, her decision to wear jeans, cut her hair and have a boyfriend made her an outlier in her extended family. But as her Uncle Jim Bob Duggar and Aunt Michelle Duggar loosened the conservative rules they had for their own kids in the later years of 19 Kids and Counting, their daughters Jinger Duggar Vuolo, Jana Duggar, Jill Duggar Seewald, and Joy-Anna Forsyth, started wearing pants and chopping off their long locks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Honestly, I was kind of taken aback," she told E! News in an exclusive interview. "I was like, 'Oh, OK, so now you're wearing jeans. Now you're cutting her hair.' So the things that were very evil and very rebellious, and the things that I was judged forI was labeled this crazy girl." And, at times, it made her resentful. "Let's be real here," the 38-year-oldwho is starring in season two of Prime Video's Shiny Happy People, premiering July 23continued. "It was just like a slap in the face in a way of just like, 'Alright, so all of that for years was for no reason at all. Great.'" More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking back at her childhood, Amythe only child of Jim Bob's sister Deanna Duggar and her ex-husband Terry Jordandescribed herself as "the contrast." Although she knew she was "the relatable one" on the TLC show, coping with the day-to-day criticism she received from her extended family was a challenge. She recalled, "I would leave crying after filming and feeling so bogged down and just felt so misunderstood." Amywho is returning to season two of the docuseries after sharing her experience with her ultra-religious famous family in the first installmenthad a very different upbringing than her cousins. Courtesy of Amazon/D Dipasupil/Getty Images for Extra "The way that I was raised was rock 'n' roll," she said in season one. "This is life and enjoy it. Teenage years were Jonathan Taylor Thomas posters on the wall and *NSYNC and all the boy bands. I got to have pool parties and there were boys." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was all thanks to her mom, who, alongside Jim Bob, grew up in a conservative Baptist home. "We weren't allowed to go to dances," Deanna recalled on season one of Shiny Happy People. "I was not allowed to wear jeans for a while. Being a cheerleader, I couldn't be. I wasn't allowed. So, that's why I gave my daughter Amy freedom of anything she wanted to do that I was not allowed to do." Amy always felt uneasy when it came to Jim Bob and Michelle's life in the Institute in Basic Life Principlesthe main subject of the first seasoneven before their son Josh Duggar was sentenced to 12 years in prison for charges related to possession of child pornography. (He had pleaded not guilty to the charges and has maintained his innocence.) Courtesy of Amazon "I have told people very close to me that something is off," Amy told E!. "Something is very off and I don't know what it is, but something is off in this." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After sharing her experience with her cousins in season one, she was more than willing to return for the second installment, which explores Teen Mania, once the largest evangelical youth organization in America. "For me," she explained, "I was just like, 'If you can shine a light and help other people heal from their religious trauma in any kind of way, then count me in.' I'll be an advocate for that." Courtesy of Amazon Despite Teen Mania's shiny exterior, teens, fearing Biblical retribution, were expected to take part in Navy SEAL endurance tests, dangerous missionary trips, and psychologically damaging internship programs. "When things turn out and they look too perfect, it's because they are," Amy emphasized. "Perfection doesn't exist. It's really sad that all of these cults all start out with good intentions. They do. It's OK to love God. It's OK to go after people who are searching in their lives and hurting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But when you take it to the point of like torture and military and confinement and control and all the things that are not of God," she continued, "then you've lost your vision, you've lost your purpose and focus." For a closer look at the Duggar family tree, keep reading. Michelle & Jim Bob Duggar The parents of 19 and grandparents of over three dozen little ones started out as high school sweethearts. Michelle has recalled being "saved" at 15. Then, one night, Jim Bob was making home outreach visits on behalf of his Baptist church and he ended up knocking on the Ruark family's door after his friend told him that "this girl from school that just got saved and is a cheerleader" lived there. They invited Michelle to Sunday school at their church and, Jim Bob said, he prayed to god that they could be each other's spiritual leadersthough apparently their first meeting wasn't as memorable for Michelle. A year later, she applied for a job at the frozen yogurt shop owned by Jim Bob's parents. "You came to the counter where I was standing by the cash register and introduced yourself," Michelle remembered in a letter posted on the family blog in 2017 for Jim Bob's birthday and their 33rd wedding anniversary. "You were shy but very sweet! I really don't remember much about that conversation, except that you finally mustered up the courage to ask me if I would go to your junior-senior banquet with you!" She attended the dinner with him at Shiloh Christian, but it was when they hung out afterward discussing the Bible for hours at her parents' house that she knew."From there, we believe our hearts were knit together," Michelle has said. "We graduated high school in May of 1984 and were married in July. I was 17 and Jim Bob was 19." 40 Years Later... The couple dedicated themselves to God and each other for the long run. Jim Bob is a former state legislator, having served in the Arkansas House of Representatives for the sixth district from 1999 until 2002, during which he was vice chair of the House of Corrections and Criminal Law Subcommittee. A run for U.S. Senate in 2002 ended in the primary, as did a bid in 2006 to become the Republican nominee for Arkansas State Senate District 35. He and Michelle, who are both licensed realtors, have been active in conservative causesan aspect of their lifestyle that won them and 19 Kids and Counting (which premiered in 2008 as 17 Kids and Counting) both proud supporters and fierce critics. As of October 2024, they were grandparents of 33 with three on the way. Josh Duggar (m. Anna Keller) Eldest Duggar child Josh Duggar was born March 3, 1988. He too became a conservative activist, campaigning for the Family Research Council. He stepped down after old police records surfaced in 2015 revealing that he had been accused of molesting several girls, including his sisters Jessa Duggar and Jill Duggar, when he was a teenager. Jessa defended her brother in a sit-down with Fox News that June, insisting that the worst names people were calling Josh were "so overboard and a lie, really. I mean people get mad at me for saying that, but I can say this because I was one of the victims." His wife Anna Duggarwhom he married in a Sept. 26, 2008, ceremony featured on 19 Kids and Countingalso stuck by him, including after he admitted to being unfaithful. When he checked into a treatment center in 2016, his parents called it "a crucial first step in recovering and healing." Parents of threedaughter Mackynzie (Oct. 8, 2009) and sons Michael (June 15, 2011) and Marcus (June 2, 2013)when the scandal broke, Anna gave birth to their fourth child, Meredith, on July 16, 2015, the same day TLC canceled 19 Kids. Their fifth child, son Mason Garett, was born Sept. 12, 2017, daughter Maryella Hope arrived Nov. 27, 2019 and baby No. 7, Madyson Lily, was born Oct. 23, 2021. In a federal indictment filed in April 2021, Josh was charged with a count apiece of receipt and possession of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty on both counts. In 2022, Josh was found guilty of both (but the possession charge was vacated by the judge) and sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John David Duggar and Jana Duggar Shortly after Josh was born, Michelle got pregnant again, but suffered a miscarriage. While she and Jim Bob were still grieving that loss and praying for guidance, they found out that twins were on the way. "We felt it was a double blessing," she told Love to Know. "God was encouraging our hearts. We're still learning. It's really so unusual, because I breastfeed my babies, but my children are so close together. I have a baby and then eight months later I'm expecting. Just another unusual thing the Lord has seen fit to do with our situation." John David Duggar and his twin sister Jana Duggar were born on Jan. 12, 1990. John David Duggar (m. Abbie-Grace Burnett) After a whirlwind courtship (they did know of each other for several years, before meeting at a church event in Abbie's home state of Oklahoma) and a short engagement, John David and Abbie-Grace Burnett got married on Nov. 3, 2018. They welcomed daughter Grace Annette Duggar on Jan. 7, 2020 and son Charlie Duggar in September 2022. On their 30th birthday in January 2020, Jana wrote in a sweet message, "Ever since John and I were little we've been asked if we have that 'twin thing'. You know, the thing where you feel what the other one is feeling or know what the other one is thinking...Well, John, I've always answered that with a nobut now I can honestly say that the day little Gracie was born I felt every bit of happiness that you did, so I guess it must be real!" Jana continued, "It's so sweet watching you & Abbie as parents! You're naturals! And the same qualities that have made you a wonderful brother will also make you an amazing dad." Jana Duggar (m. Stephen Wissmann) Jana watched 11 of her 18 brothers and sisters get married before she found love with Stephen Wissmannwhose sister Hannah Wissmann is married to the TLC alum's brother Jeremiahbut despite some admitted frustrations, she maintained it was all part of God's plan. "I haven't always understood what the bigger picture is, but I know that God knows what is best for all of us. And so for me, it's getting married later," Jana told People in August 2024, shortly before her wedding. "Each of our stories will be written differently. If we were all the exact same, it would be a boring life." Jill Duggar (m. Derick Dillard) Jill (Duggar) Dillard was born on May 17, 1991. In a love story reminiscent of her parents', Jill first met Derick (who grew up about 45 minutes away) on Christmas 2011 when he stopped by the Duggar family abode while out caroling with his church group. Jim Bob played matchmaker, and Jill and Derick hit it off, growing closer over email and Skype. Father and daughter went to visit Derick in Nepal that November and Jill and Derick continued to fall for each other. In February 2014, Derick asked Jim Bob for his daughter's hand in marriage, and they tied the knot on June 21, 2014. They are parents to three sonsIsrael, born on April 6, 2015, Samuel, born July 8, 2017, and Frederick, born July 7, 2022. In April 2024, Jill shared that she had suffered a pregnancy loss while expecting her and Derick's first baby girl. Jill and Derick reflected on the controversies and religious beliefs surrounding her family in the Amazon Prime Video documentary Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets, which premiered in June 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jessa Duggar (m. Ben Seewald) Jim Bob and Michelle's fifth child, Jessa Duggar, was born Nov. 4, 1992. Jessa met Ben through church and he began courting her in 2013the old-fashioned approach to romance coming as a brand-new notion to a lot of viewers. The kids never talked about their romances pre-engagement, so Jim Bob explained to People, "Courting is getting to know each other in a group setting, both families spending time together and the couple setting goals together to determine if they are meant to marry. With dating, a couple will often pair off alone and that sometimes leads to a more physical relationship." Ben asked for Jessa's hand and then proposed in August 2014sealing the deal by holding her hand for the first time. They married on Nov. 1, 2014. Jessa was pregnant with their first child when 19 Kids and Counting was canceled and TLC subsequently aired a special about sexual abuse, featuring Jill and Jessa, to further educate viewers on the subject. The sisters would end up the stars of their own show, Jill and Jessa: Counting On, that winter; the show then evolved to become Counting On, featuring other Duggar siblings as well. Meanwhile, Jessa and Ben welcomed son Spurgeon on Nov. 5, 2015, son Henry on Feb. 6, 2017, daughter Ivy Jane on May 28, 2019 and daughter Fern in July 2021. In February 2023, Jessa shared that she suffered a miscarriage over the 2022 holiday season. She gave birth to son George in December 2023. On May 7, 2025, Jessa announced baby No. 6 is on the way. Jinger Duggar (m. Jeremy Vuolo) The sixth Duggar child, Jinger Vuolo, was born Dec. 21, 1993. Jinger and Jeremy met doing ministry work in Laredo, Texas, and started courting in 2016. They married on Nov. 5, 2016 (the bride's nephew Spurgeon's birthdaybut you just try not overlapping milestones when you're one of 19), and were promptly the subject of pregnancy rumors. "Where we see ourselves in a year is probably just settled down, still doing ministry here in Laredo, and just seeking to serve the Lord, however, we can," Jinger said on a June 2017 episode of Counting On. Their daughter Felicity was born July 19, 2018. In May of that year, they revealed that Jinger was pregnant againand that she had suffered a miscarriage the previous fall. In November 2020, they welcomed daughter Evangeline Jo. Son Finnegan Charles was born March 29, 2025. Joseph Duggar (m. Kendra Caldwell) No. 7 Joseph Duggar was born on Jan. 20, 1995. Taking advantage of the romantic setting, Joseph proposed to Kendra (whom he met through church) at his sister Joy-Anna's wedding in May 2017 after just a few months of courting. "I was definitely nervous going into it, but I wasn't afraid that she was going to say no, because she has said, 'I'm just waiting on you!'" Joseph told People after popping the question. Added Kendra, "I'm so happy and so shocked. There's so many words I want to say, but just shocked." They've since announced the births of son Garrett, born June 2018, daughter Addison, born November 2019, daughter Brooklyn, born February 2021. Josiah Duggar (m. Lauren Swanson) Eighth in line, Josiah Duggar was born on Aug. 28, 1996. Just a few months after his courtship with Lauren went public, the couple announced their engagement in March 2018. "The place where I proposed to Lauren is the exact spot where her parents were engaged," he said in a statement. "There's a lot of family history on this property making it a special place for Lauren." Her future mother-in-law, Michelle, said in a video posted on the family's blog, "We love Lauren, she is such a precious girl." Jessa and Ben also offered congratulations, and chocolate shaped like x's and o's. "Pretty sure that y'all want to save your first kiss for your wedding day, but if you come over here we'll give you..." She held up the sweet consolation prize. A previous courtship with Marjorie Jackson didn't work out and they went their separate ways in the summer of 2015. "Marjorie and I had a good time together," Josiah recalled to People in March 2016. "We were just trying to follow God's lead on everything. She didn't feel that it was the right timing then, so we called it quits for a bit." He and Lauren tied the knot June 30, 2018, telling People their wedding day was "absolutely perfect." They welcomed daughter Bella Milagro on Nov. 8, 2019the name translating to "miracle baby," after the couple revealed Lauren had suffered a miscarriage in October 2018. They welcomed another daughter, Daisy, in 2022, and a son named Ezra in May 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joy-Anna Duggar (m. Austin Forsyth) Ninth sibling Joy-Anna Duggar was born Oct. 28, 1997. She knew Austin Forsyth for 15 years as a friend before he started courting herafter which they didn't waste any time. He proposed in February 2017 and they married on May 26, 2017, at Cross Church in Rogers, Ark. (the wedding where Joseph proposed to Kendra!). Joy & Austin Forsyth Joy-Anna and Austin welcomed son Gideon Martin Forsyth on Feb. 23, 2018, daughter Evelyn Mae Forsyth on Aug. 21, 2020, and son Gunner James Forsyth on May 17, 2023. Jedidiah Duggar and Jeremiah Duggar Jim Bob and Michelle's second set of twins, Jed Duggar and Jeremiah Duggar, were born on Dec. 30, 1998. Jedidiah Duggar (m. Katey Nakatsu) Jed married Katey Nakatsu after one year of courting in April 2021. They are parents to son Truett, born May 2022, and daughter Nora Kate, born June 2023. Jed and Katey announced in July 2024 that they had twin girls on the way, and daughters Elsie Kate and Emma Kate were born Jan. 8, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeremiah Duggar (m. Hannah Wissmann) Jeremiah, a certified flight instructor, is married to Hannah Wissmann (Jana's husband Stephen's sister) and the two are parents to daughter Brynley, born December 2022, and Brielle, born February 2024. They announced the arrival of their third daughter, Emery 'Emy' Jane Duggar, on May 18, 2025. Jason Duggar (m. Maddie Grace) No. 12 Jason Duggar was born on April 21, 2000. In January 2017, the Daily Mail reported that Jim Bob helped Jase buy a $33,000 fixer-upper in Prairie Grove, Ark., about 30 minutes away from the Duggar family homestead, and he ended up starting his own construction company. He went Instagram official with girlfriend Maddie Grace in May 2024 and the two married the following October. James Duggar Charmed No. 13, James Duggar was born July 7, 2001. Not publicly courting a potential significant other yet, he's a doting uncle to dozens of nieces and nephews. "He is the 'funcle' (fun uncle!) and all the younger boys around here look up to him and want to be just like him!" mom Michelle wrote on his 19th birthday in 2019. "James is able to do just about anything he thinks up. Even as a child, we would find James 'fixing' various household appliances. He has always been one to take things apart, figure out how they work, and put them back togetherwith a few special modifications! "This year James worked hard to get his CDL, and he has become an expert at driving all the big trucks and heavy machinery! We can't wait to see what God has in store for him in the future!" Justin Duggar (m. Claire Spivey) No. 14 Justin Duggar arrived on Nov. 15, 2002. He went public with girlfriend Claire Spivey in September 2020. The two got engaged the following November and married on Feb. 26, 2021. Jackson Duggar Here with his big sister Jill, Jim Bob and Michelle's 15th child Jackson Duggar was born May 23, 2004. On his 16th birthday, mom Michelle praised Jackson's sense of humor and noted that she knew he couldn't wait to get his driver's license. Johannah Duggar Johannah Duggar was born Oct. 11, 2005, hence the original family special called 16 Kids and Moving In. "This girl is so fun and outgoing, and she loves making new friends," Michelle wrote on her 16th child's 15th birthday in 2020. "Her younger sisters absolutely adore her and think she hung the moon, and I couldn't be more grateful to God for choosing me to be her Mom!" Jennifer Duggar Jennifer Duggar arrived on Aug. 2, 2007, then the baby of the family. Their TLC show that premiered Sept. 29, 2008, was christened 17 Kids and Counting. For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Originally appeared on E! Online Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have moved yet again. Eight months after the former talk show host and her wife moved to the U.K., the pair are selling their Cotswolds mansion and have relocated to another nearby home in order to accommodate Portias animals. When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn't live without her horses, Ellen told The Wall Street Journal in a statement published July 22. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The comedian and Arrested Development actress are now in the process of selling Kitesbridge Farm, their 43-acre estate in the English countryside. Ellen and Portia purchased the property for about $20 million in the spring of 2024 and performed extensive renovations, because the farm was quite tired, with a quite basic finish, listing agent Andrew Barnes told the Journal. Now, Kitesbridge Farmwhich includes a heated indoor swimming pool, gym and party barn with its own pubis on the market for about $30 million. More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the Finding Dory star confirmed that, despite initially planning to live part-time in the U.K., the pair decided to permanently take up residence following the re-election of President Donald Trump. "We got here the day before the election and woke up to lots of texts from our friends with crying emojis, and I was like, 'He got in'," Ellen said during a July 20 public appearance in Cheltenham, England, per the BBC. "And we're like, 'We're staying here.'" Plus, the comedian and her wifewho celebrated 20 years together in Marchlove the country. Todd Williamson/E! Entertainment/NBCUniversal/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images "It's absolutely beautiful," she continued. "We're just not used to seeing this kind of beauty. The villages and the towns and the architectureeverything you see is charming and it's just a simpler way of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read on for more stars who have left the likes of Hollywood for a quieter life. Ellen DeGeneres The Ellen DeGeneres Show host's eponymous talk show ended in 2022 after a 19-season run amid allegations of a toxic work environment that prompted an internal investigation, multiple firings of executives and public ire. Ellen returned to the spotlight for her final standup special For Your Approval, which released on Netflix in September 2024. During the lead-up to that special, she revealed she would be leaving Hollywood altogether. "This is the last time youre going to see me," she told a crowd during her Ellens Last StandUp tour, per SFGate. After my Netflix special, Im done." Ellen and her wife Portia de Rossi have since moved to England, reportedly in response to Donald Trumps 2024 election win, according to multiple outlets (the couple have not publicly commented on their reason for their move). Tyra Banks One of the reasons the America's Next Top Model host moved to Australia? To stay on top of her ice cream brand. "So I have this ice cream company, SMiZE and Dream," Tyra explained on an April 2025 episode of Today with Jenna & Friends. But we've been more what we call B2B, like on an airplane and on cruises. Ive been going to Australia a lot because we were making a lot of our ice cream there in a big facility doing our recipes. And I just fell in love with it every time I went back and went back." Not only was she happy there, but she also knew it was a good market for her business. "The three countries that eat the most ice cream?" she continued. "America, New Zealand and Australia." So, the supermodel moved to Australia with her son York (his dad is her ex Erik Asla) and boyfriend Louis Belanger-Martin, noting, "Australia has been a dream come true for me and my family." Eva Longoria While it's been a minute since the Desperate Housewives star lived on Wisteria Lane, she's since found a new address IRL. "I had my whole adult life here," Eva told Marie Claire in November 2024 about leaving Los Angeles. "But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then Covid happened, and it pushed it over the edge. Whether its the homelessness or the taxes, not that I want to s--t on Californiait just feels like this chapter in my life is done now." So for the past few years, the actress, her husband Jose Baston and their son Santiago have split their time between Mexico and Spain. "Im privileged," she continued. "I get to escape and go somewhere. Most Americans arent so lucky. Theyre going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them." However, Eva noted her move wasn't because of President Trump's re-election. "I didn't leave because of the political environment," the Flamin' Hot director said on The View: Behind the Table podcast in November 2024. "I left because my work took me there since Land of Womenshooting six months in Catalonia, then four months in Mexico for Searching for Mexico, then back to Spain. Now I've been there for years. So I just don't like that it's politicized." Since moving, Eva has continued to stay busy, with recent projects including her roles in Only Murders in the Building and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip. Richard Gere The actor has gone from Chicago to Spain. "My wife is Spanish, and she gave me about seven years here," Richard said of Galicia native Alejandra Silva on a November 2024 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. "And so we're going to spend some years in Madrid." He also expressed his excitement over what the move would give the couple's young sons Alexander and James. "Our kids are bilingual," Richard, who also has an adult son Homer with ex Carey Lowell, added, "so they're going to flourish there." Indeed, it seems the whole family has. "The truth is that you are seeing us in our momentum," The Agency: Central Intelligence star told Elle Espana in January 2025. "We are happier than ever." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christina Milian From AM to PM, the singer is living in Paris "My husband is French, and we've been together for over seven or eight years," Christina, who is married to singer Matt Pokora, said on a November 2024 episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show. "And for the last three or four years we were commuting back and forth every six months." However, they decided to officially say au revoir to the U.S. so her kidswho include daughter Violet from her former marriage with The-Dream and sons Isaiah and Kenna from her union with Mattcould study in France. "They're all going to school in Paris," she continued. "I was like, 'What better than an opportunity than that?" And life for the family appears to be magnifique. "My kids are happy there," the Dexter: Original Sin actress told E! in December 2024. "They know French. We go to the park. I have an active lifestyle that's really nice during the day. Then at night time, I do my work because I work hours ahead. It's a nice, healthy balance for me." Lindsay Lohan Lindsay is tired of rumors starting about why she left Los Angeles. So, she set the record straight while looking back at her hectic work schedule and partying in the aughts. "I feel like some of [my work] got overshadowed by paparazzi and all that kind of stuff when I was younger, and thats kind of annoying," The Parent Trap alum told Bustle in March 2024. "I wish that part didnt happen. I feel like that kind of took on a life of its own. So thats why I wanted to disappear. I was like, 'Unless theres no story here, theyre not going to focus on just my work.'" Lindsay moved abroadfirst to London then to Dubai (also opening beach clubs in Greece). However, there was another reason she sought a life away from the spotlight. "I was like, 'What if I never fall in love? What if this never happens?'" the Mean Girls star added. "And it took me just taking time for me for all those doors to open and the yeses to comethe things I wanted to say 'yes' to." Of course, Lindsay did find love with Bader Shammas, the pair marrying in 2022 and welcoming son Luai the following year. They still live in Dubai, but the Freaky Friday actress hasn't left the Hollywood industry completely, starring in movies like Our Little Secret, Irish Wish and Freakier Friday. Josh Hartnett For Josh, the decision to leave Hollywood came after some self-reflection. "Hollywood is more than a place; it's like a state of mind," the Black Mirror actor told People in July 2024. "If you're around people who are constantly talking about the movie business, your life is going to be pretty much one note. And I've never wanted that." Instead, he wanted more. "I've always wanted to be around ... people generally doing lots of other things that would bring my mind off of my work and force me to grow in different directions," Josh added. "To me, that's the spice of life." So, the Black Hawk Down alum, his wife Tamsin Egerton and their four kids moved to England's Hampshire countryside. "Time passes quickly," he told The Guardian in July 2024. "With four children, you have so much to do. In a way, less is happening. But more of the important stuff is happening." Still, Josh has stayed plenty busy and landed roles in Verity, Fight or Flight and Trap. Jesse Eisenberg If you haven't checked your social network lately, then you might not know that Jesse doesn't live in L.A. "Ive lived in Indiana for the last decade on-and-off," the A Real Pain star told CBS News Sunday Morning in February 2025. "Thats where I feel the most comfortable. Im not somebody who wants to surround myself in an industry that just feels kind of unstable to me." And while he's an Oscar nominee, he lives a pretty normal life with his wife Anna Strout and son Banner. "I'm not on social media, and I'm not a person who's on the phone with industry people all the time," Jesse also shared. "So, my life feels pretty separate. My wife is a teacher. My kid doesn't really even watch movies. So, I'm not like knee-deep in the world of constantly trying to assess my own status in an industry." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eliza Dushku Palandjian After appearing in such projects as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and 2000's Bring It On, Eliza revealed in September 2024 that she had become certified in psychedelic-assisted therapy and is furthering her studies as a mental health professional. "I had the means to shift directions and choose a course in my life that focused on healing myself so that I could help heal others," she told Boston Magazine. "I would be remiss if I didnt now share the transformation and the peace and the passion that I have. This is just absolutely so clearly my real calling, my real purpose." Rosie O'Donnell The Flintstones star revealed that she moved to Ireland in January 2025 with her youngest child Clay and was in the process of getting her Irish citizenship as her grandparents are from the European country. But while Rosie cited recent political developments as her reason for leaving, she didnt rule out an eventual return home. "I miss my other kids," she said in a video on TikTok. "I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home and I'm trying to find a home here in in this beautiful country. And when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will consider coming back." Evangeline Lilly The Ant-Man and the Wasp star announced she's taking an indefinite hiatus from acting after 20 years in the industry. "I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision," Evangeline wrote on Instagram in June 2024. "I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfillment." But she isn't necessarily shutting the door, either, adding, "I might return to Hollywood one day, but, for now, this is where I belong." Ian Somerhalder The Vampire Diaries alum hasn't sunk his teeth into a new role since Netflix's 2019 series V-Wars. Instead, he has dug a little deeper into a passion project, namely his mission to combat climate change by improving the world's soil. "I stepped away from acting a little over four years ago to raise my kids, build my companies and get these films launched," Ian, who shares two children with wife Nikki Reed, told E! News in November 2023 of launching the 2020 documentary Kiss the Ground and its follow up Common Ground, each detailing the need for regenerative farming. When he looks years down the road, the actor continued, "I will be a rancher and building legacy brands, whether it's my bourbon or my health and wellness company, and the regenerative agriculture and healthy soil management practices that I live by and our family lives by. That's where my life was going. So when people say 'Why do you care?' That's why I care. Because that's who I am, that's what I'm going to become." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jennette McCurdy On a February 2021 episode of her podcast Empty Inside, the iCarly alum told guest Anna Faris that she decided to stop acting a few years back and is now focused on opportunities in writing and directing, in addition to hosting the podcast. "My experience with acting is, I'm so ashamed of the parts I've done in the past," revealed Jennette, who detailed her experience in her 2022 memoir I'm Glad My Mom Died. "I resent my career in a lot of ways. I feel so unfulfilled by the roles that I played and felt like it was the most cheesy, embarrassing. I did the shows that I was on from like 13 to 21, and by 15, I was already embarrassed. My friends at 15, they're not like, 'Oh, cool, you're on this Nickelodeon show.' It was embarrassing." Though she hasn't totally written off a second act. "I do feel like only through writing the book have I gotten to a place where I think there might be a way of exploring acting that doesn't carry that baggage that I carried with me for so long," she told E! News in October 2022. "Maybe if I write something for myself. I think that'd really be maybe one of the only ways I could kind of try exploring it again." Meghan Markle This felt like something of a no-brainer. If we had a shot to marry Prince Harry, dedicate our life to the philanthropic causes that matter most to us and gain access to the Queen's impressive collection of tiaras, bidding ta-ta to Tinseltown would feel like an okay sacrifice. Following the path Grace Kelly took from Hollywood to the Palace of Monaco, Meghan left behind her home in Torontoand her breakout role on Suitsfor a life in The Firm. Though, now that she and Harry have shed their senior roles and live in Montecito, Calif., she's edging back into the business thanks to business moves like their multi-year production deal with Netflix. The Duchess of Sussex released her 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan as well as her 2025 lifestyle show With Love, Meghan on the streaming service. She's also launched podcasts and her brand As Ever. Cameron Diaz Having made upwards of 40 movies since her debut in 1994's The Mask, the actress was long overdue for a break when filming wrapped on 2014's Annie. "I just decided that I wanted different things out of my life," she explained to pal Gwyneth Paltrow of her ultimate act of self-care. "I had gone so hard for so long, working, making films and it's such a grind. When you're making a movieit's a perfect excusethey own you. You're there for 12 hours a day for months on end and you have no time for anything else." And there was plenty more she'd like to explore, from writing (she followed up her 2013 New York Times best-seller The Body Book with 2016's The Longevity Book) to starting a family with husband Benji Madden. But while Cameron confessed to InStyle in 2019, "I don't miss performing. Right now I'm looking at the landscape of wellness and all that," apparently she could be swayed into making at least one encore. "We just begged and pleased on my knees, like, 'Just give the people one more again,'" Jamie Foxx told E! News of getting Cameron to sign on for the 2025 Netflix film Back in Action. "We love her, we've been waiting on her and this is just gonna be fantastic." Terrence Howard The actor insisted there'd be no encore after he finished his five-year run on Empire. When Extra asked Terrence about his future ahead of the musical drama series' sixth and final season in 2019, he responded, "Oh, I'm done with acting. I'm done pretending." And though he returned to set for a handful of projects, the Oscar nominee again announced his plans to quit acting while promoting his Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters in 2022. "I've gotten to the point where now I've given the very best that I have as an actor," he told ET. "Now I'm enjoying watching other new talent come around, and I don't want to do an impersonation of myself." Despite these comments, though, Howard has since appeared in a few more shows and movies, including the TV series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist and Netflix film Shirley, with multiple projects lined up in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jack Gleeson Once his time as King Joffrey came to a sudden, purple-faced end in 2014, the then-21-year-old told EW he was getting out of the game. "I've been acting since age 8," the Game of Thrones star explained of his decision. "I just stopped enjoying it as much as I used to." No longer a child star, a bit of the magic had worn off. "Now there's the prospect of doing it for a living, whereas up until now it was always something I did for recreation with my friends, or in the summer for some fun," Jack continued. "I enjoyed it. When you make a living from something, it changes your relationship with it. It's not like I hate it, it's just not what I want to do." But after a six-year break, he was ready to resume his reign, joining the cast of BBC's series Out of Her Mind in 2020. Since then, Jack has also appeared in movies like Rebecca's Boyfriend and In the Land of Saints and Sinners as well as TV shows like Safe Harbor and The Famous Five. Phoebe Cates When Fast Times at Ridgemont High's dream girl (Jennifer Aniston took on her part in September 2020's virtual table read) wed fellow actor Kevin Kline in 1989, they "agreed to alternate so that we're never working at the same time," he told Playboy of their plan to care for son Owen and daughter Greta (a singer who now goes by the stage name Frankie Cosmos). However, he continued, "whenever it's been her slot to work, Phoebe has chosen to stay with the children." Though she made a cameo in pal Jennifer Jason Leigh's 2001 indie The Anniversary Party, Cates devotes most of her time to operating her New York City boutique Blue Tree. Rick Moranis At the height of his Ghostbusters and Honey, I... fame, the '80s star stepped away from filmmaking not long after his wife passed away from breast cancer in 1991 to focus on raising his kids Rachel and Mitchell. Though Rick hasn't had a live-action movie role since 1997, even passing on a cameo in Paul Feig's 2016 Ghostbusters remake, he's remained a treasured cultural icon, as evidenced by the outrage over reports that he'd been assaulted while walking in New York City in 2020. Thankfully there's good news for fans: He'll make his triumphant return alongside Josh Gad in the forthcoming Disney reboot Shrunk. Leelee Sobieski Once she wed fashion designer Adam Kimmel in 2010, the Never Been Kissed standout hinted that she was maybe kinda done with movies. "Ninety percent of acting roles involve so much sexual stuff with other people, and I don't want to do that," she explained to Vogue. "It's such a strange fire to play with, and our relationship is surely strong enough to handle it, but if you're going to walk through fire, there has to be something incredible on the other side." Her decision was solidified after son Martin joined older sister Louisanna in 2014. "I don't do movie stuff anymore. I am totally an outsider! I am just a mom and an outsider," she noted to Us Weekly at a 2016 event, explaining that she helps Kimmel with his business and paints on the side. "I am just focused on my kids. I think that's mainly why I stopped." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portia de Rossi She'd done Ally McBeal. And Nip/Tuck. Then Arrested Development and finally Scandal when the Aussie realized that maybe she was ready to turn the dial. "I was approaching 45 and I just kind ofwas wondering is there something that I could tackle now that I've never done before that would be really challenging and different," she explained on wife Ellen DeGeneres' eponymous talk show in 2018. "I kind of knew what acting would look like for me for the next 10, 20 years, so I decided to quit and start a business." Her consumer-art company, General Public, already a work in progress, she had just one piece to finish. "I called Mitch Hurwitz, who's the creator of Arrested Development and I said, 'If there is a season 5, I won't be doing it because I quit acting. And he seemed really understanding and he totally got it. We had a great conversation, and then he wrote me into five episodes." Daniel Day-Lewis To be fair, once you've won three Academy Awards, what's left to accomplish? Shortly after receiving his sixth Oscar nod for his final film, 2017's Phantom Thread, the thespian had his rep issue a statement informing fans that he "will no longer be working as an actor. He is immensely grateful to all of his collaborators and audiences over the many years. This is a private decision and neither he nor his representatives will make any further comment on this subject." But just when Daniel thought he was out, his son pulled him back in. In October 2024, production company Focus Features announced the Oscar winner would star in Anemone, the film he wrote alongside son Ronan Day-Lewis (who will also direct). Bridgit Mendler The Good Luck Charlie alum took a step back from the spotlight in 2018 when she began pursuing a master's degree from MIT, later earning a PhD from the institution. She also enrolled in Harvard Law School. And as if that weren't enough, Bridgit launched her own startup Northwood Space, which aims to build ground satellite stations to help send and receive data from space, becoming CEO of the brand in February 2023. For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App On the heels of his five-episode run in the Ryan Murphy TV series Grotesquerie, Travis Kelce made his film debut in Adam Sandler's Happy Gilmore 2. Taking to the silver screen is undeniably a big moment for the star tight end (although he only has a small role as a hotel employee in the Netflix movie), however, he and Taylor Swift were noticeably absent from the New York premiere on July 1, 2025. Their reason for skipping is actually quite simple. Getty Images Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New York City October 11, 2024 Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New York City October 11, 2024 Kelce had to miss the star-studded event because training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs started yesterday. Players had to arrive at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, Missouri, on Sunday, the same day as the premiere. For those of you who were hoping to see Traylor finally make their red carpet appearance, we're sorry to report Sunday was not the day. Despite dating for nearly two years, the couple have not walked a carpet together. However, Swift, being the supportive girlfriend she is, has become a mainstay at Chiefs games. Kelce has also been spotted returning the favor at his girlfriend's Eras Tour shows. Getty Images Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce enjoy dinner at Waverly Inn on October 15, 2023, in New York City. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce enjoy dinner at Waverly Inn on October 15, 2023, in New York City. Then, of course, there are their glamorous date nights. Earlier this month, they were spotted sharing a meal at JoJo's Bar in Chagrin, Ohio. For the occasion, the music mogul wore her own merch, including her Seagull Blue Stripe Poplin Shirt, paired with a pale-pink pleated miniskirt and dangly earrings. She styled her luscious blonde locks in a high ponytail. Kelce sat beside her in a two-tone blue striped shirt. Getty Images Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at the 2024 US Open Tennis Championships on September 8, 2024, in New York City. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at the 2024 US Open Tennis Championships on September 8, 2024, in New York City. The month prior, they had another rare public date night in Palm Beach, Florida. The "Fortnight" hitmaker wore a flirty black minidress with spaghetti straps and a sweetheart neckline, paired with wedge heels and a small purse. Kelce coordinated in a black short-sleeve button-down shirt, playful black-and-white checkered pants, and black loafers. Read the original article on InStyle Wondering if Victoria Newman will reunite with Billy or Nate on The Young and the Restless? Recent scenes, character shifts, and Amelia Heinles own hints have sparked questions about her next relationship. Heres everything confirmed so far about who Victoria might end up with next. Will Victoria get back together with Billy or Nate in The Young and the Restless? Victoria Newman is not currently in a relationship, but recent developments suggest both Billy and Nate are potential future love interests. Amelia Heinle, who plays Victoria, told Michael Fairman TV she recently filmed scenes with Jason Thompson (Billy) and acknowledged their characters still play love beneath their dynamic. She added, Its been a while and weve had a nice time out. So, yes that would be good, when asked if shed like to revisit Billy and Victorias relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Victoria will soon lean on Nate while her parents and his girlfriend remain stranded in France. Nate recently rekindled a friendship with Victoria, and if Audras affair abroad ends their relationship, he and Victoria could reconnect. Nate is also mourning the death of his half-brother Damian, which may further draw him closer to Victoria through shared grief. Heinle hinted that the writers may introduce a new man for Victoria, despite ongoing speculation about Billy and Nate. During the interview, she joked, Wheres Nate? but clarified that Victoria currently focuses on her daughter Claire and isnt actively pursuing a new romance. Billy is currently with Sally, but their relationship faces strain due to conflicts in France and professional setbacks. If Sally grows tired of Billys impulsiveness, he may become single again. Similarly, if Nate ends things with Audra, he might pursue Victoria. Heinle stated she doesnt make requests about her characters love life, but she does try to play any attraction written into the script. The writers have also teased that Cane, though pursuing Lily, might be tempted by Victoria again. Additionally, Heinle referenced the possibility of a surprise storyline that could involve someone unexpected. The post Why Young & Restless Fans Think Victoria Will Get Back Together With Billy or Nate appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. You might think choosing a baby name is down to the parents, but there are some monikers you can't give to a newborn, depending on where you live. Earlier this year, New Zealand, which has strict naming laws, released a list of all the baby names officials rejected in 2024. Many of the names were linked to royalty, with King, Prince and Princess noted as the top three most rejected name choices. Crown, Pryncess, Royal and Emperor were also among the names turned down. Other names parents were banned from using included Saint, Fanny, Ice and Messiah. In total, there were 71 instances of a name being declined. By law, names in the country must not be offensive, resemble a title or rank, include numbers or symbols, or be unreasonably long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isn't the only example of baby names being banned around the world. Hungary and Iceland are just two of a number of countries where parents have to choose their baby names from an approved list. If they want to give their child a more unique name, they must put in a request and wait to see if it's approved. In other countries, there are laws around names using traditional spellings. In fact, various baby names have been banned around the world for a whole host of reasons. Here are some of them. Certain baby names are banned around the world. (Getty Images) Banned baby names Metallica Maybe these Swedish parents were huge fans, but when they tried to give their daughter an ode to their favourite heavy metal band in 2007, officials outlawed it, deeming it inappropriate. However, after public outcry, authorities withdrew their objections. Tom If youre considering having a baby in Portugal, there is a list of approved names to choose from. Nicknames are not allowed as a full, formal name so Tomas is okay, but Tom isnt. Nutella In 2015, a court in Valenciennes, France, decided that a couple would not be allowed to name their daughter Nutella. The judge ruled it wouldnt be in the childs best interest to be named after a chocolate spread. Facebook In todays internet-obsessed society, it's only a matter of time before someone tries to name their child after a social media site. The state of Sonora in Mexico banned parents from naming their baby Facebook in 2014 because it is derogatory, pejorative, discriminatory or lacking in meaning". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same state has also banned the names Robocop, James Bond, Circumcision, Traffic and Lady Di. @ Before you roll your eyes, the meaning behind this is quite sweet. In China, the @ symbol is pronounced 'ai-ta' and means 'love him'. Still, when parents tried to name their child this in 2007, authorities didnt think it was appropriate. However, it wasn't revealed if the name was eventually allowed or not. Brand names as baby names, including Nutella and Ikea, have been rejected in some countries. (Getty Images) Ikea Parents in Sweden wanting to name their children after the countrys Scandinavian-inspired superstore could fall foul of the countrys naming law, enacted in 1982. J Turns out Swiss naming authorities arent keen on initials as first names. When parents tried to pay tribute to two grandparents, Johanna and Josef, with the name J, the court in Switzerland suggested Jo instead. Gesher Back in 1998, Norwegian authorities jailed a woman for two days when she failed to pay a fine for giving her son an "unapproved" name Gesher, which is Hebrew for bridge. Cyanide In 2017, a Welsh mother was banned by a high court from calling her baby daughter Cyanide (her twin brother was named Preacher). Despite her arguments that Cyanide was a "lovely, pretty name", the court ruled that the "unusual" choice might harm the child growing up. Saint The moniker that Kim Kardashian and Kanye West chose for their son may have been fine in the US, but, in New Zealand, where you cant give your kids names that resemble official titles, its not. In 2024, one set of parents had this name rejected by the naming officials within the government. Daemon A French couple, in 2012, were keen to name their child after the character of Damon from The Vampire Diaries. They added an 'e' to make it sound more French, but authorities banned it for sounding too demonic. However, the parents were allowed to keep the name after a court battle. Talula Does the Hula From Hawaii This unique moniker of Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii belonged to a nine-year-old girl from New Zealand before a judge had her renamed during a custody battle. "It makes a fool of the child," he said. Akuma In 1994, Japanese parents called, or should we say tried to call, their son Akuma, which means devil. The authorities decided this was an abuse of the parents rights to decide a childs name. Chow Tow AKA Smelly Head While some countries are gradually loosening their name laws, Malaysian authorities have been clamping down on unsuitable titles in recent years. Case in point: Cantonese moniker Chow Tow, which means 'Smelly Head'. Ah Chwar AKA Snake The 2006 tightening of Malaysias naming restrictions also meant the banning of Hokkien Chinese Ah Chwar, which means 'Snake'. Peppermint Germany has certain criteria for baby name bans. Pfefferminze ("Peppermint") was rejected because it might cause ridicule. Equally, the moniker Stone was outlawed due to the fact that "a child cannot identify with it, because it is an object and not a first name". Some countries have lists of pre-approved baby names for parents to choose from. (Getty Images) Linda In 2014, the relatively inoffensive-sounding Linda made Saudi Arabias banned baby names list, thanks to its association with Western culture. Fanch In 2017, a French court ruled a couple could not use the moniker Fanch theyd chosen for their baby. The court in Quimper, north-west France, ruled that the new parents would not be able to use the character n (called a tilde) in their babys name. Venerdi AKA Friday In 2008, a court banned an Italian couple from calling their baby boy Venerdi, which translates to Friday. But although naming a baby after the best day of the week doesnt sound that bad, the judges believed the name, taken from Robinson Crusoe, would expose the child to "mockery" and was associated with "subservience and insecurity". Parents in France were banned from calling their baby Fraise, which means strawberry in English. (Getty Images) Fraise When a French couple attempted to name their child after a strawberry, the courts claimed that the name Fraise would incur teasing. The parents insisted that they were only trying to give their little one an original name, and eventually went with 'Fraisine' instead. Lucifer Earlier this year, The Times reported that a court in Germany had intervened when a couple tried to call their child Lucifer. Other names that have been rejected in the country include Satan, Judas and Gucci. Anus A child in Denmark was very nearly named after this particular part of the human anatomy. Unsurprisingly, the application was denied. Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmnckssqlbb11116 No, we didnt just nod off on the keyboard. That is an actual name a Swedish couple tried to give their baby back in 1996. Apparently, the name is pronounced 'Albin' (yeah, were not sure how either), and the parents chose it as a protest against Swedens strict naming laws. Are any baby names banned in the UK? In the UK, there are no strict rules around names. In fact, more than 60,000 unique names and spellings were given to babies born in England and Wales in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, names that are racist or considered harmful to the child could be illegal and banned, according to the UK Deed Poll Office. Names could also be rejected by the registering officer if they: Are impossible to pronounce Include numbers, symbols or punctuation marks like exclamation points (hyphens and apostrophes are fine) Are considered offensive, vulgar or blasphemous Infer the child has a rank or title, like Doctor or Lord Read more about baby names: Regardless of what is happening in the world or how bad a day you have, dessert can help to make you feel better. A slice of pie, piece of cake, or scoop of pudding is the ultimate sign of hospitality that few do better than those residing in the Southern region of the United States. Indeed, every state in the country has an iconic dessert, but the South seems to have a legacy of recipes that have been passed down for generations that evoke nostalgia in even the staunchest health food fan. Many of these are still satisfying sweet tooths here and there, while others have sadly been forgotten. We did a deep dive into the history of Southern desserts to dig up some that may have escaped our memories. From delicacies firmly rooted in historical events to those that emerged as a way of creating something out of nothing during hard times, read on to discover the retro Southern desserts that, in our estimation, deserve a second chance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 14 Old-School Desserts People Loved To Eat In The 1970s Lane Cake lane cake on a plate - Thad McLaurin / Facebook The lane cake is a booze-filled dessert that in 2016 was dubbed the official state dessert by Alabama. This layered masterpiece was the invention of one Emma Rylander Lane from Clayton, Alabama, who created it for a baking competition that she won in 1898. Sometimes called "Prize Cake," an homage to this prize-winning turn, the cake features so much bourbon or brandy that Harper Lee famously mentions it in her 1960 chef d'oeuvre "To Kill a Mockingbird." The character of Scout notes "Miss Maudie Atkinson baked a Lane cake so loaded with shinny it made me tight," with the word "tight" in this case meaning tipsy. What sets this cake apart, besides the copious quantities of alcohol it contains, is its reliance on baking powder, which was invented in the 1850s and revolutionized the art of cake making. The remaining ingredients of this historical four-layer cake include raisins, butter, sugar, vanilla, eggs, and, occasionally, coconut or pecans. While you may find it in celebratory settings, the amount of alcohol makes this cake less well-suited to most modern-day tastes. Jefferson Davis Pie Slice of Jefferson Davis pie on a white plate - Southern Roots By Sheri / You Tube Among the more unique pies you'll only find in the United States is a recipe that appears to have fallen out of favor: Jefferson Davis Pie. This pie consists of a luxurious, spiced custard that is punctuated by chopped dates, raisins, and pecan pieces. These are occasionally coated with a delicate meringue. While some recipes have re-imagined this pie with the dried fruit and nuts added into the crust, the classic version is a mouthfeel that is typically less popular, owing to its resemblance to fruitcake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the precise origins of this recipe remain a mystery, what is clear is that its name has nothing to do with the first and only president of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis. It was likely the legacy of Africans enslaved during the Civil War. According to some accounts, the recipe is attributed to a slave woman from Missouri. It was so well-received that fame for its brilliance quickly spread across the South, where it presumably was given its unfortunate moniker. Jam Cake Whole blackberry jam cake on wooden serving platter - Whippoorwill Holler / You Tube Like many American cakes, jam cake is an example of the impact immigration has had on our nation. Though generally attributed to Kentucky, this cake was actually brought to the Bluegrass State by German migrants who made their way from Pennsylvania to the Deep South and beyond during the mid-1800s. This cake used to be the staple of the holidays, particularly Christmas, when they would be served alongside other, more recognizable favorites, like pumpkin or pecan pie. While the latter have endured, jam cake is seldom seen anymore. Jam cake takes advantage of local berries, generally blackberries or blueberries, that are turned into homemade preserves. The seedless preserves act to help give the cake flavor, moisture, and sweetness. This highly spiced cake is often augmented with raisins and toasted, chopped walnuts for texture. It historically features a caramel icing that is delicately drizzled over the top to help balance out the sweetness. Lemon Cheese Layer Cake lemon cheese layer cake on white platter - My Recipe Rendezvous / Facebook Among the once-popular American cakes that need a comeback is the lemon cheese layer cake. This 10-layer masterpiece, which was a fixture in states all across the Southern United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s, represents something of an etymological conundrum. While it does have lemon in it, in the form of lemon curd that is generously spread between the cake layers, it's completely void of cheese in any iteration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The explanation for this has to do with the likely origins of the recipe, which point to England. In the late 1800s, lemon curd was made by combining lemon zest and juice with cream and allowing these to curdle, much the way acid is used to produce cheese curds. This resulted in the mixture being dubbed "lemon cheese." Today, lemon curd is generally made from lemon juice and zest cooked together with sugar, eggs, and butter until thick and creamy. Transparent Pie Person holding a square white plate of transparent pie - Come Sit At My Table / You Tube Unique to a small pocket of the Northern Kentucky River Region, namely the town of Maysville, transparent pie is a delicacy that has won the hearts of Kentuckians since its invention in the late 1800s. One such Kentuckian is the famous actor George Clooney, who was born and raised there. In an interview at the premiere of the movie "Leatherheads," the actor stated that it was his favorite thing about coming home, and he isn't alone. One small bakery known as Magee's still makes the pie during the holiday season, but it is largely unknown outside of the region. Similar to New England chess pies and Southern buttermilk pies, transparent pie gets its name from the clear, custard-like filling that is dumped into a pie shell and baked. Unlike other fancier pies that have remained popular during the holidays, like pecan or pumpkin, it is made from run-of-the-mill ingredients that any rural household would have had on hand, including cream, eggs, and flour. Hummingbird Cake Three-tier hummingbird cake on cake stand with slice cut out of it - Michelle54 / Shutterstock Though the classic hummingbird cake may be a relic of Southern cooking, Americans can thank the Jamaica tourist board for this delectable recipe. The distribution of this cake recipe was something of a marketing ploy by the national tourism board of Jamaica to promote a certain favorable image of the country stateside. Also known as doctor bird cake, the alternative name for the national bird of Jamaica, the swallowtail hummingbird, this cake first appeared as a recipe in a 1978 issue of Southern Living Magazine. It has since become its most requested recipe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This sugary cake features two quintessentially tropical ingredients, pineapples and bananas. These are baked into a spice-laden sponge-like cake that is adorned with a cream cheese frosting and garnished with toasted pecans. The finished cake is something akin to a typical carrot cake recipe that has been mashed together with a basic banana bread, though perhaps slightly spicier. Sour Orange Pie Close up of a slice of sour orange pie on a white plate - Pia's Trattoria / Facebook Move over key lime, sour orange pie used to be Florida's thing before this dessert took over the state. A remnant of 16th century Spanish settlers, Seville orange trees were a botanical transplant that proliferated across Florida. The fruit of this tree has a distinctive, tart flavor that is unlike the modern-day, hybridized iteration of this citrus varietal and more similar to lemons, hence this recipe's inevitable mutation into the more prevalent key lime pie. It was frequently transformed into a single crust pie that was thickened with cornstarch, rather than sweetened condensed milk, which wasn't invented until the mid-1800s. The crust, which was more likely made from a saltine-like cracker than a graham one, was filled by this custard and baked until firm. The result was a pie that had a vibrant, distinctive flavor that cannot be matched. Most recipes today combine conventional orange juice with lemon juice to obtain an acidity and bitterness that is reminiscent of Seville oranges in their absence. Apple Stack Cake Appalachian apple stack cake garnished with powdered sugar on a cake tray - Celebrating Appalachia / You Tube To the uninitiated eye, an apple stack cake may very well resemble a stack of pancakes piled high and spread with dense layers of apple compote. While this isn't altogether inaccurate, it is also very simplistic. At its heart, apple stack cake is formed from layers of cake made with flour, eggs, and buttermilk, sweetened with the unique flavor of sorghum molasses. These are alternated with a paste or sauce made from chopped apples cooked together with sugar or molasses, spices, and water until thick and gooey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The entertaining folk tale behind this cake is that it became a staple at weddings because every guest would bring a layer of cake to the festivities, which would subsequently be stacked on top of each other until a towering masterpiece was created. The more layers, the more well-liked. Though this Appalachian delicacy has a wholesome origin story, it is rooted in the history of migration from the early colonies westward. The actual recipe is attributed to the founder of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, one James Harrod, who came there in 1774 from Pennsylvania. Because this cake was made with ingredients that were readily obtained by any Appalachian household, it became wildly popular. Lady Baltimore Cake Person slicing a Lady Baltimore cake - Tami Dunn / You Tube While a Lady Baltimore cake appears to be something that you'd discover at a bakery in Maryland, this dessert actually has its roots in Charleston, South Carolina. It gets its name from a combination of reality and fantasy. Though immortalized in a famed book by the same name, which was authored by Owen Wister in 1906, the cake was likely a fixture of the Lady Baltimore Tea Room, where owners Florence and Nina Ottelengui developed the recipe as a variation on the popular queen cake. Wister likely enjoyed the cake while dining there and included it in his iconic novel. What sets this cake apart from others is its complex texture. It features a sponge-like cake that is dotted with dried fruits and nuts, generally raisins steeped in rum and toasted, chopped walnuts. The whole cake is bathed in a meringue-based frosting, giving it a beautiful, glossy, white finish that makes it ideal for weddings, Christmas, or any celebratory meal. Vinegar Pie Slice of vinegar pie on a white plate - At Ease BBQ / Facebook One pie that appears as shrouded in mystery as it is abundant with acidity is vinegar pie. This recipe is often lumped together with other desserts developed during the Great Depression, known as "desperation pies." These sweet treats, which include recipes like transparent pie, buttermilk pie, and chess pie, were thought to have emerged out of necessity, using only ingredients readily available and affordable during difficult times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In reality, vinegar pie is a concept that goes back even farther. The first mention of this recipe is in a book called "Practical Housekeeper," written by Marion Scott in 1855. It subsequently appears in numerous books written by authors across the United States. While many regions lay claim to the recipe, it is definitely considered a relic of Southern hospitality that deserves inclusion here. The recipe for vinegar pie is quite simple. It features a custard filling made from eggs, sugar, butter, and, of course, vinegar, which are baked into a single crust pie. While historically any kind of vinegar would be used, apple cider vinegar is the most popular variety owing to its more delicate, fruity flavor. Woodford Pudding Whole and sliced woodford pudding on white plate - Bourbon and Biscuits / You Tube While some of us may think of JELL-O when pudding comes to mind, a Woodford pudding recipe is more in line with the British definition of the word, which is a custard-like dessert that is baked, steamed, or boiled. A classic Woodford pudding is made from butter, sugar, eggs, flour, spices, buttermilk, and, the defining ingredient, blackberry jam. These are combined together and baked until light and fluffy. The whole concoction is garnished with a rich, almost syrup-like butterscotch sauce that is a deep brown hue. Occasionally featured at Kentucky Derby festivities, this historical recipe was first mentioned in a publication dating back to 1875. It gets its name from Woodford County, an area near Lexington, Kentucky, which is incidentally the home to the famed Woodford Reserve bourbon distillery. Though there is no bourbon in this recipe, its fruity, caramel-like sweetness and almost chocolatey appearance certainly makes it an ideal pairing with this libation. Gateau De Sirop Or Syrup Cake Whole Gateau de Sirop or syrup cake garnished with colorful sprinkles and surrounded with Mardi Gras beads - Darlenes Table / You Tube When one considers Louisiana and Cajun cuisine in particular, popular dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and etouffee may come to mind. One recipe that emerged from this culture that hasn't withstood the test of time nearly as effectively is gateau de sirop or syrup cake. This dessert is a relic of the Antebellum period in the South, which existed from the end of the War of 1812 to the start of the Civil War. During this period, Louisiana became the focus of sugar cane production in the United States. This sugar was frequently used in syrup form for baking, producing moist, dense, molasses-like desserts that characterized the tastes of the era and capitalized on a readily available commodity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gateau de sirop or syrup cake fuses flour, eggs, oil, and warm spices typically associated with pumpkin or apple pie, like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, with real cane syrup in its liquid form. These are baked until golden and served with fresh whipped cream. Sock It To Me Cake Sock it to me cake cooling on cookie sheet - Ixepop / Shutterstock The origin story of this classic Southern dessert from the 1970s is something of an oddity. The sock it to me cake was inspired by the pop culture sensation that was Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. This sketch comedy show that began in 1968 featured celebrity guests in short bits that were often punctuated by catchphrases. One such catchphrase was, you guessed it, "sock it to me." This was exclaimed every time something surprising occurred on the show. At one point in the early 1970s, Duncan Hines sponsored the show and began featuring a recipe for a cake by this name on boxes of its iconic yellow cake mix. The base of this half pound cake, half coffee cake mash-up that is baked in a bundt pan is the boxed yellow cake. It is interlaced with a delicious strain of brown sugar and toasted pecans that slowly meld together with the batter as the cake bakes, producing a surprise sweet vein in the center of each slice of cake. This cake is typically garnished with a simple white icing. Tipsy Parson Tipsy Parson trifle cake in glass baking dish - Tenacity_1987 / Shutterstock Sometimes known as a Tipsy Squire or Tipsy Pudding, the Tipsy Parson is just another name for a classic British-style trifle. These desserts came to the South by way of English settlers, who landed there in the mid-1700s. The name refers to the often boozy components that are used to resuscitate stale cake. Consummate hosts, Southerners would often bust out their favorite trifle stands and load them up to serve to guests after Sunday church services, during which the preacher would occasionally leave a little tipsy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though not specific, a classic Tipsy Parson recipe often includes day-old pound or angel food cake, pudding or custard, fresh fruit, syrup or jam, and, of course, the alcohol, which in the South would typically be bourbon or whiskey. These are layered until the trifle dish is filled and then allowed to set for up to 24 hours. Trifles were as valued by Southerners for their elegance as they were for their efficiency, as they didn't require any baking and could be assembled ahead of time. Mock Apple Pie Person serving a slice of mock apple pie onto a white plate - Emmymade / You Tube Mock apple pie, or cracker pie as it was occasionally known, likely did not originate in the South, but was popularized there. It is mentioned in a number of Southern cookbooks, including the 1863 oeuvre the "Confederate Receipt Book" and "What Mrs. Fisher Knows About Old Southern Cooking," which was published in 1881. It re-emerged in popularity in the 1930s, when a variation of this recipe was printed on a box of Ritz Crackers and remained a fixture there until the mid-1980s. Though purportedly born out of the desperation of the Civil War and later rekindled out of the necessity of the Great Depression, this pie likely originated as a means of producing something akin to an apple pie when apples were either unavailable or not in season. This pie has a classic, flaky double pie crust. The filling is made from either Ritz or saltine crackers combined with water, sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, and butter. These are carefully cooked together until they develop a consistency that is surprisingly similar to that of chopped apples. Butter Roll Portion of butter roll served onto a white plate - 901 Cravings / You Tube The origin of the butter roll is something of a mystery, but its importance to the families residing along the Mississippi Delta is undeniable. This classic Southern dessert, which is quickly becoming something of an endangered recipe, was likely born out of necessity. It took advantage of the scraps of leftover biscuit dough that were generously sprinkled with sugar and spices, rolled up, and drowned in a custard-like sauce. These were baked until golden brown and served hot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While they may appear to be something of a precursor to a modern-day cinnamon roll, this dish doesn't feature a yeast-proofed pastry and its precise presentation can vary from solid logs to individually-shaped rolls. What is certain is that this is a dish that many recall fondly as something they were served by their grandmother growing up. It is evidence of the deliciousness that can be created with some ingenuity despite a lack of exotic ingredients. Hungry for more? Sign up for the free Daily Meal newsletter for delicious recipes, cooking tips, kitchen hacks, and more, delivered straight to your inbox. Read the original article on The Daily Meal. Sangria is traditionally a Spanish and Portuguese beverage made with a blend of wines, fruits, and sometimes spirits like brandy. Throughout the European Union, sangria must be made in either Spain or Portugal to even be labeled "sangria" on the shelves. However, bottled sangrias have become increasingly common throughout the United States over the past few years to the point where now even some fast casual restaurants are serving sangria alongside a stack of fries. Due to the increased popularity in the states, more wine manufactures are getting their grapes into the sangria game -- giving shoppers a plethora of never-before-seen options at any given grocery store. With so many different sangrias on the market, it's hard to tell which ones are worth sipping. Through trial and tribulation, we gathered the eight best sangrias found throughout the United States that are worth buying. Whether you're taking some to the beach or serving it alongside a cozy holiday meal, these are the bottled sangrias worth drinking. Read more: Lager Vs Pilsner Beers: What's The Difference? Lolea No 2 White Sangria Frizzante Three bottles of Lolea No 2 Sangria on a wooden shelf - Casa Lolea / Instagram Lolea No. 2 White Sangria Frizzante is the perfect bottle to bring to a party to impress the host without breaking the budget. The elevated selection from the Lolea brand is created with a blend of Chardonnay and Macabeo grapes, making for a unique and flavorful sangria. Advertisement Advertisement This slightly fizzy white sangria has the boldness and depth of a red sangria but with a much lighter and more floral finish. Notes of jasmine blend with vanilla and fresh orange for a refreshing, ready-to-sip sangria. Lolea's complex White Sangria Frizzante offering pairs perfectly with fish such as salmon or yellowtail, making it a professional choice at a sushi restaurant (check out our guide for mistakes to avoid when dining at a sushi restaurant). Lolea is a fairly common brand that can be found at liquor stores around the country. Though the No. 2 White Sangria Frizzante is certainly the premiere choice of its line, it isn't typically accompanied with an elevated price tag. Any bottle in the Lolea family, including the red, rose, or white spritz sangria will cost around the same -- typically from $15 - $20 depending on location. Casal Garcia Sangria Four bottles of Casal Garcia standing upright in front of a blue background - Casal Garcia / Instagram It can be difficult to find Portuguese wines and Portuguese restaurants in the United States, but the Casal Garcia brand of wines and sangria is the one you'll most likely find at a nearby liquor store. While Spanish varieties of sangrias tend to dominate the market, it's certainly worth trying some Portuguese counterparts. Casal Garcia has an array of sangrias, including red, white, rose, tropical fruits, and red berries. The Casal Garcia brand tends to run a bit sweet in its sangrias and its wines alike, making any one of its offerings a perfect choice for those who love a sweet and summery drink. The red sangria -- or sangria tinto in Portuguese -- is by far the least sweet option and pairs well with anything from pastas to pastries. Advertisement Advertisement The Casal Garcia red sangria has a relatively low alcohol content at 7.5%. This allows the flavors of the fruity sangria to pull through, with strong notes of orange, cinnamon, and citrus. Unlike most red wines, this red sangria is best when chilled before serving. Capriccio Bubbly Sangria Different flavors of Capriccio Sangria along a wooden mantle - Capriccio / Instagram Capriccio made a splash several years ago when the brand became known in a viral moment as the "Four Loko of sangrias," likening it to the line of flavored malt beverages. And anything that's earned the label "the Four Loko of X" is worth trying, in my humble opinion. With a whopping 13.9% alcohol volume, these small bottles pack a big punch compared to the other sangrias on this list and pretty much all other sangrias in the marketplace. The fruity, bubbly red sangria in Capriccio's black bottle is the brand's signature and the one most worth trying. In it you'll find a stiff drink with a bit of an alcoholic kick -- inevitable in a sangria this strong. You'll also find, though, a delightful burst of fruit flavors such as pineapple, pomegranate, cherry, and lime. The Capriccio white sangria is a bit muted when it comes to fruitiness, letting the fermented grapes speak for themselves. Other flavors in the Capriccio line include rose, peach, passionfruit, and watermelon sangria. If you're looking for that original Four Loko rush without the malt liquor, Capriccio's watermelon sangria offers all that artificial sweetness and more. De La Costa California Red Sangria A closeup of a label of De La Costa sangria - Glunz Family Winery & Cellars / Facebook De la Costa Sangria proudly hails from California -- a state known for its historic restaurants and wineries. Both its red and white varieties are modeled after traditional Spanish sangria but made with a blend of California grapes from the Paso Robles area. Using a mixture of Zinfandel and Merlot, De la Costa's red sangria is a delicious summery drink that is both accessible and affordable. Advertisement Advertisement The smooth flavor profile of De la Costa's red sangria really focuses on the quality of the grapes, with subtle hints of tart cherry to further highlight the drink's light and refreshing taste. Adding fruit to sangria is never particularly a bad idea, but this bottle is pretty much ready to drink as is. Adding too much fruit may overpower the semi-sweet lightness of this sangria. De la Costa's red is a great option for those who want a flavorful sangria that is not too sweet. Bacana Sparkling Sangria Different Bacana Sangrias with pots of greenery - Bacana Sangria / Instagram Bacana calls itself "Portugal's #1 premium sangria," a statement that's especially hard to refute when it comes to availability in the United States. Where Casal Garcia's sweetness is front and center, the Bacana-branded sangrias weave a more complex flavor, making a delightfully bubbly sangria that's hard to put down. Made in the Torres Vedras region not far from Lisbon, Bacana's line of sangrias utilizes Portuguese grapes for a unique and satisfying sip. Any of the brand's three variations are worth a try. The red -- made from Aragonez, Castelao, Touriga Nacional, and Alfrocheiro grapes -- is full-bodied and citrusy, making it a bold pairing for steaks or red meat. The white is much lighter, with Arinto and Fernao Pires grapes, flavored with mint and green apple for a refreshing poolside drink. Bacana's rose takes the best of both worlds, made with the same grapes as the red, but given limited skin contact for a more balanced and clean finish. Bacana can be found in most major cities throughout America, but it may be more difficult to come by than other brands of sangria. Shoppers will have the most luck in states like California, Rhode Island, or Massachusetts, where the food scene is historically linked to a large Portuguese community. Rancho Alto Sangria A bottle of Rancho Alto Sangria with a jug in front of it - Corks + Cheers / Facebook Rancho Alto sangria touts itself as a traditional Spanish sangria that can be found fairly commonly across the Southern and Western United States. Made with sun-ripened fruits, this deep red sangria is definitely one worth trying any time of year. Advertisement Advertisement Created by Mike Collier under the Corks + Cheers brand, Rancho Alto sangria contains natural fruit flavors with hints of grapefruit and red berries. While certainly on the sweet side, the full-bodied wine makes this an excellent choice for a wintery warm-up drink. During the warmer summer months, sweeten it up some more by adding plenty of fruit to your cup before serving over ice. This dark red sangria pairs particularly well with meat, especially citrusy carne asana or a cilantro lime chicken. If you find yourself on the West Coast, where you can find Rancho Alto sangria almost anywhere, try pairing a glass with some tacos from one of the best Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles. Williams Sonoma Organic Sangria Mix Two bottles of Williams Sonoma Sangria Mix - Williams Sonoma Williams Sonoma is not one of the first places one would think to look for an interesting bottle of sangria, but nevertheless the kitchen and home goods company delivered -- at least halfway. The retailer sells an Organic Sangria Mix in either red or white, just hold the alcohol. These mixes are perfect for personalization. Add still or sparkling wine to match your preference, or enjoy as is for a fruity non-alcoholic drink. Spice up these sangria kits even more by adding a splash of schnapps, vodka, or rum. The Williams Sonoma red is incredibly light on its own, thanks to the omission of any fermented grapes. It has a bit of wintery essence to it, blended with cranberries and ripe cherries that bring your taste buds right to the Thanksgiving table. The white, on the other hand, is tart and citrusy with pineapple and passion fruit. Advertisement Advertisement Either one of these mixes is worth a try if you find yourself at a Williams Sonoma store with some money to spend. They are, however, on the expensive side -- $43.90 for two 24-ounce bottles -- especially when taking into account that you'll still need a nice bottle of wine to pair with them. Real Sangria A bottle of Real Sangria with two full glasses in front of a pool - Real Sangria / Instagram Real Sangria is one of the most common bottled sangrias found throughout the United States. It's admittedly not the tastiest sangria on this list, but it's several steps up from the other brands sitting on the shelf next to it at around the same price point. Real Sangria is a great selection if you're staying within a budget, buying a lot for a party, or just sampling what's out there. This Spanish sangria comes in red, white, or a peach rose, which is surprisingly delicate and light for a flavored sangria. Needless to say, all three of the Real varieties go down easily, particularly the rose and the red, which are both lightly fruity and flavorful. The white sangria is a bit sweeter, with hints of orange and pineapple and a slightly higher alcohol percentage. You can find these sangrias pretty much anywhere in a plethora of sizes: mini-bottles, extra-large bottles, cans, and even 3-liter boxes. Grab a large 1.5-liter bottle and some cut-up strawberries for a delicious drink by the pool. Read the original article on Chowhound. A Saudi delegation arrives at Damascus International Airport in Damascus, Syria, on July 23, 2025. A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih arrived in the Syrian capital Damascus on Wednesday to launch the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, in a move seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, according to the state news agency SANA. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) DAMASCUS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih arrived in the Syrian capital Damascus on Wednesday to launch the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, in a move seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, according to the state news agency SANA. The delegation, dispatched under the direction of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, includes more than 130 businessmen and investors. According to SANA, the forum aims to explore avenues for bilateral cooperation and facilitate the signing of agreements that support sustainable development and mutual economic interests between the two nations. As part of the program, the forum will include the launch of a white cement factory project in the Adra Industrial City in the Damascus countryside. In an interview Wednesday with Saudi-owned Al Arabiya TV, Saudi Ambassador to Syria Faisal bin Saud Al-Mujfel said the forum reflects the kingdom's leadership's commitment to supporting Syria's recovery, institutional rebuilding, and territorial unity. The Saudi Ministry of Investment stated that the kingdom's investments are part of broader efforts by the kingdom to strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to Syria's economic stabilization and long-term recovery. On Tuesday, Syrian interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa received a separate delegation of Saudi business leaders, including ACWA Power Chairman Mohammad Abunayyan and Al Muhaidib Group Chairman Suleiman al-Muhaidib, to discuss deepening economic and investment cooperation. The Saudi Embassy in Damascus also announced that travel permits for businesspeople from both countries are now available, enabling mutual visits and exploration of investment opportunities across various sectors. A Saudi delegation arrives at Damascus International Airport in Damascus, Syria, on July 23, 2025. A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih arrived in the Syrian capital Damascus on Wednesday to launch the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, in a move seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, according to the state news agency SANA. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Summer is in full swing and if you somehow didn't realize it, just step outside. Temperatures have been scorching and when combined with the humidity, heat indices have been around 115 degrees in parts of the state and the National Weather Service is issuing heat warnings. The obvious way to avoid the dangerous heat is to stay inside where air conditioning keeps temperatures comfortable, but do you really want to stay cooped up indoors until September when temperatures become more pleasant? Of course not, especially if you have children. Mississippi is blessed with thousands of miles of creeks and rivers and if you live in the Jackson area, Barnett Reservoir is just a short drive away. So, there are plenty of places where you can enjoy the outdoors, swim, have fun and stay cool all at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are five places to take a dip and stay cool that are not only family-friendly, they're also easy on your wallet. Some can be quick trips while others make great day trips or even longer if you want. Mississippi temperatures have been scorching hot, but there are plenty of places near Jackson to get outdoors, swim and stay cool. D'Lo Water Park in D'Lo D'Lo Water Park is a great place to cool off and relax in a spot so scenic, part of a movie was filmed there. The water park sits along the Strong River where water rushes over a shallow area with a stone bottom and into a deeper area where visitors can swim. The location was used for a scene in the 2000 comedy-drama movie "O Brother, Where Art Thou." Visitors can picnic and fish and if they want to stay longer than a day RV, cabin and tent camping are available. Kayaks, canoes and tubes are available for rent also. Location: 135 D'Lo Park Road Distance from downtown Jackson: 31 miles Activities: Picnicking, swimming, camping, paddling, tubing and more Hours: Daylight to dusk Price: Free entry, various fees for camping and watercraft rentals Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore in Brandon Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore is located on the Rankin County side of the Ross Barnett Reservoir and attracts people year-round. In the summer visitors swim, fish, picnic and sunbathe. The park features piers, picnic tables and a comfort station. There is also a dog park onsite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: 1112 North Shore Parkway, Brandon Distance from downtown Jackson: 14 miles Activities: Fishing, paddling, picnicking, swimming Hours : Daylight to dark Price: $5 per vehicle on weekends and holidays between May 15 and Labor Day, otherwise free. Note: Gates are being installed and there will be a $5 fee per vehicle every day when installation is completed in coming weeks. Merit Water Park near Mendenhall If there was ever a good, old-fashioned swimming hole, Merit Water Park is it. The park is situated on Rials Creek, which is a tributary of the Strong River. It features rushing water, a small waterfall and, of course, a swimming hole. There's also a beach consisting of sand and gravel. It's a great place to relax, cool down, and enjoy the outdoors. Location: 1043 MS 43, Mendenhall Distance from downtown Jackson: 36 miles Activities: Picnicking, swimming Hours: Daylight to dusk Price: Free Note: Merit Water Park is temporarily closed Pelahatchie Shore Park in Brandon Pelahatchie Shore Park on Ross Barnett Reservoir is another popular spot. Its sandy shoreline invites swimmers and its covered picnic tables are great places to eat or just get out of the sun for a while. The park also has a comfort station and boat ramp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: 1065 North Shore Parkway, Brandon Distance from downtown Jackson: 14 miles Activities: Fishing, paddling, picnicking, swimming Hours: Daylight to dark Price: $5 per vehicle on weekends and holidays between May 15 and Labor Day, otherwise free. Note: Gates are being installed and there will be a $5 fee per vehicle every day when installation is completed in coming weeks. Dunn's Falls Water Park near Enterprise Located near Enterprise, Dunn's Falls Water Park requires the longest drive from Jackson of the destinations in this list, but it's certainly worth it. It sits along the Chunky River and the clear water begs visitors to hop in when it's hot. Of course, you can paddle the river of try fishing as well. It has a 65-foot manmade waterfall that cascades down tiers and also has an 1800s mill that can be toured. There are nature trails, a rental cabin and primitive camping sites, too. Location: 6890 Dunn's Falls Road, Enterprise Distance from downtown Jackson: 97 miles Activities: Picnicking, swimming, hiking, camping, fishing Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Mondays and Tuesdays Price: Entrance fee is $3.25 ages 12 and older, $2.25 for children under 12, additional fees for camping, cabin rental Do you have a story idea? Contact Brian Broom at 601-961-7225 or bbroom@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Where to get outdoors, swim, stay cool during heat advisory near Jackson MS Exploring the world was always the goal for Jaro, a 26-year-old wanderlust who was raised on Hawaii's island of O'ahu since he was five years old that is, until his lifelong dream became his reality. Today, Jaro who simply goes by "Travel With Jaro" on Instagram and TikTok has successfully evolved his vision of adventure and spontaneous exploration into a full-time career as a content creator, boasting 2.5M followers across both platforms to date. Upon first glance at his social media grids, online scrollers are almost guaranteed to be overcome with FOMO (rather, internet talk for "fear of missing out") due to his dream sequence-like videos and picture-perfect photos that may even have onlookers question if they're AI (they're not). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jaro opens up about building a life for himself that he'd always dreamt about, explaining the unexpected reason why it wasn't what he thought it would be and how he "reclaimed" his passion to personally and professionally thrive. Marek Wolfensberger Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Jaro, who was born in the Czech Republic before relocating to the Aloha State, was basically raised by Mother Nature. Having lived there until he was 21 years old, the island shaped him (and taught him many lessons, English being one of them). "That was really the place where I found myself from a very young age," he tells PEOPLE exclusively of his upbringing on the small pocket of land situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Jaro shared, "Waking up in the ocean every single morning, going out and running around barefoot, hiking barefoot in the mountains with my best friends, going cliff jumping... It was always outdoorsy things, this passion for life and adventure growing up there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for an island that can take a driver approximately one hour to get from one side to the other, "boxed in" is what he felt, especially having come from Europe at a young age. Ultimately, the wide-eyed free spirit sought more. Ivana Cablova Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla At age 19, an eventual "itch to travel" entered Jaro's soul, and romance entered his heart. "I ended up falling in love with this girl," he says of his former Vancouver-based love interest at the time, noting that they did "long distance" for about three months until they decided to take a road trip together from Oregon to Utah. "It was [really] transformative for me because this was one of the first times that I made it outside of this state," he shares, adding, "For the first time in my life, during this road trip, I really got to see how much bigger this world really is." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fast forward a few years, Jaro completed two years of community college in Hawaii before realizing he wanted to pursue his "passion for travel" seriously. He moved to Oregon, they went to a Christian university together, but after some time, he dropped out. Ivana Cablova Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Jaro moved to Vancouver with his then-girlfriend, but felt held back so he did what was best for himself and the "abstract dream" he had in mind for his future. "Every time I would talk about my dreams of traveling and hitchhiking across countries and doing something that was a bit wild, living on boats, living on sailboats, none of that was accepted by the people that I was around and my partner at the time," he shares. After five months in Canada, Jaro listened to his gut and called it quits on their relationship. Despite their romance coming to an end, the adventure seeker's exhilarating life filled with twists, turns and a fair share of couch surfing had only just begun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not like I had loads of funds coming in at this point, but I had a car and I had all of my university things so I drove all the way to California," he explained. "My friend told me I could crash on his floor for a couple months until I figured out what I wanted to do with my life basically." Kevin Wandersky Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Jaro, then 21 years old, wound up staying with his friend until he sold his car for approximately $7K or $8K, which was enough for him to pack up and head out to further pursue his dream of "creating travel content" and "getting paid to travel the world." "I have this tattoo on my arm. It's 'November 7th, 2019, which was when I decided to drop out of university and pursue this passion and leave everything behind," he tells PEOPLE, looking back. The first place Jaro went? New Zealand, the first solo trip he took in February 2020 (and notoriously, the start of the COVID-19 pandemic) with $8K in his bank account and making around $700 a month doing remote marketing work for his mom's massage therapy clinic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was living in hostels and I hitchhiked around the entire country, but I didn't have any real plan," he admits. "Transport was too expensive. So, I would meet new people in a hostel every single day, and sometimes, we'd go hitchhiking together or then, I would go off and hitchhike on my own." Courtesy Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Jaro pushed himself further in an attempt to achieve his dreams and gave himself an ultimatum. "When I sold that car and left California and left my friend's house and went to New Zealand, I told myself that I wasn't going to come back home until travel content and content creation was my full-time job," he says. Ultimately, it took Jaro "about two years" until he allowed himself to go back home and see his family thanks to a "turning point" opportunity to travel from New Zealand to Fiji on a sailboat with a few friends he met or rather, a mecca for content creation gold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I really used that as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and be able to document a real story out of it," he shares. "About eight months after that day, I made it to Bali. Within two or three months of being here, I really, really zoned in on what I was doing." "And within that two-month period, I landed on my first viral video on TikTok," he continues, "And that was a video that hit 23 million views and took me from 150 to 650,000 followers within a single week." Sarah Rosenborg Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Now, Jaro's job has transformed into "sharing unique travel experiences and opportunities" with his viewers with my viewers," he explains. "I love the really grungy type of travel that pushes you outside of your comfort zone." For example, one scroll on Jaro's social media platforms and you'll see him jumping out of planes from beautiful locations, mountain climbing in Nepal, diving with sharks in the French Polynesia, bungee jumping off cliffs in Bali, among other exotic and at times, knee-weakening experiences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Now, what I get paid for is mainly working with the travel brands," he explains, citing collaborations with major companies like Apple or Meta. "It's not just within the travel space, but sharing more life experiences." Samuel Robinson Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Then, after five years of creating content full time, the unforeseen wild card factor hit him: it "ruined" his life. "It can really disconnect you from what's happening in the present moment," he tells PEOPLE transparently. "I was constantly telling myself to create or try to be perfect for a camera or to create this certain moment that wasn't really real." He adds, "I felt this very strong disconnect from the moment rather than having the camera be a part of the moment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jaro credits one quote that "changed" his entire life: "Document it, don't create." "When you have this constant urge to have to pick up your camera and take a video of something just to get paid, there's a bit of your freedom that's taken away... and a bit of your heart," he admits. "It takes away from the reason why you really started this in the first place," he continues, "Which was to experience more." Thiago Gagliaone Jaro Cabla Jaro Cabla Since that switch of mindset and newfound perspective, Jaro's flying high both literally and metaphorically having traveled to 35 countries since his self-started career took off, creating content for his millions of followers across his social media platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Miley Cyrus' mom follows me on Instagram!" he points out with a laugh. As for the best part of his job? "The impact that you are able to create... Social media has the impact to literally change people's lives," says Jaro, just as it's changed his. Read the original article on People When she was a small child growing up in Cuba, Natalia Martinez-Kalinina remembers what her grandmother did with the bounty of wild mangoes that flourished in her yard. She would gather as much fruit as she could carry in pails. Then she would give them to the neighbors, family and friends who came to the front door. Sometimes, even random strangers got lucky. She had one of those problematically large mango trees that was a structural threat, Martinez-Kalinina recalls. Anywhere in the U.S., itd be taken down, but not in Cuba. So she gave them away. Sometimes I would help her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martinez-Kalininas grandmother, Beatriz Adelaida Brunet Quintaro, passed away in 2016, four years after Martinez-Kalinina moved to Miami. But the memory of the mangoes stuck with Martinez-Kalinina, who eventually decided to replicate her grandmothers generosity as a sort of tribute. Only instead of giving away the fruit, she baked it into pies, sharing slices with people she came across in the course of her job, with friends and neighbors, even handing strangers a slice that they were always happy to take. Natalia Martinez-Kalinina with one of her mango pies. Eight years later, with so many requests for pies pouring in, Martinez-Kalinina has taken her random acts of kindness a step further, starting an online business selling the pies. She bakes them in the commissary kitchen at her home in a live/work building. It wasnt meant to be a thing, says Martinez-Kalinina, laughing. I just wanted to do something nice connected to my grandmother. But it grew to such a point people were texting me every year to get on the list to get pies. The list got longer and longer. I had not imagined it as a business until this year. Creating a baking business was a new venture for Martinez-Kalinina, who works in the tech world and is cofounder of the Miami venture-backed startup Base, a modern twist on a social club that links people from different backgrounds to shared experiences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But her contacts there helped her. A creative director offered to design a logo for her. Martinez-Kalinina also hosts dinners, concerts and other gatherings at her home for eclectic groups of people and urged them to try the pies, too. And they rave. Natalia Martinez-Kalinina chops fresh mangoes at her Miami home. Ashley Schmidt, who knows Martinez-Kalinina through their shared health tech work and runs a scuba club with her, remembers being skeptical of mango pies before she took her first bite. I was questioning how good it would be, she says. Blueberry and blackberry pie, yes. A mango margarita, yes. Manoges and yogurt, a mango smoothie, no doubt. But mango pie? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flavors changed her mind. It was the best pie Ive ever had, she says. Theres something about this flavor thats like Christmas. So warm and delicious. Sometimes you can eat a mango, and it can be on the sour side, or theyre overly sweet. This is right in the middle. Miranda Brna of Miami Beach calls the pies truly amazing. I honestly didnt know pie could taste that good, she says. I am not a pie person. But this pie is so good, that I AM a pie person but just for this pie. Natalia Martinez-Kalinina poses with one of her mango pies and her cat, Pushkin at her Miami home. What makes this mango pie so addictive? In addition to Miamis general rabid appetite for the fruit, Martinez-Kalinina believes its the chili powder she adds. When her family left Cuba and moved to Mexico, they adopted an appetite for a bit of spice, which inspired her recipe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not spicy, she says. But in Mexico, you add tahine to mango slices. With that contrast, the flavor is enhanced and elevated. I love the spice with the sweet. Martinez-Kalinina wont be quitting her day job, though. Mango pie is a seasonal treat, and she hasnt had luck making pies with frozen fruit. Im sure more skilled chefs could do this, but for me it doesnt come across the same, she says. Thus, Sunny Slices season ends when the mangoes are no longer available, usually sometime in August. This year, unlike 2024, has been a good season for mangoes, and neighbors are still supplying her with fruit, which proves to Martinez-Kalinina that an act that started as a gift is a positive force in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It brings out the best community version of us, she says. People are so generous with their mangoes. They become givers and engage in neighborliness. We dont always do that here. How to order a mango pie DM @sunnysliceco on Instagram; no phone calls accepted $8 a slice, $40 for a pie The MAGA lawmaker overseeing the investigation into former President Joe Bidens autopen use has vowed to probe the former presidents judicial appointments. During an appearance on Fox News, Kentucky Rep. James Comer, who leads the House Oversight Committee, said his inquiry would look at everything that was signed with the autopen, including executive orders, pardons, and nominees. There were some even nominees in the Biden administrationtheir paperwork was signed with the autopen at a time when the Presidents mental fitness is in question, Comer said last week. DENVER (KDVR) A one-and-a-half-year-old boy was reported missing in Silverthorne, according to authorities, and at 6:15 p.m., the town reported that the boys body had been found. The Town of Silverthorne is processing a tragic and heartbreaking incident in our community, the town said in its announcement. Our hearts go out to the family who lost a loved one and to emergency responders who were involved in the incident. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town of Silverthorne reported that the Silverthorne Police Department, along with other law enforcement, were searching for the missing boy as of 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The agency first reported the missing child on social media at about 3:45 p.m. At about 5 p.m., the childs body was found. The search was based out of the Willow Grove Open Space in Silverthorne. First responders were searching the Blue River and surrounding area for him. Police said the child was wearing a green sweatshirt, blue jean shorts and white velcro Nikes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Lakewood police are investigating a deadly shooting that happened early Wednesday morning. The shooting happened at the Windrift Apartments in the 1400 block of South Reed Street, according to a Lakewood police post on X. Later, the agency shared a press release about the incident. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox The police department said that at approximately 1:20 a.m., police went to the apartments for multiple reports of a shooting. They found a male victim dead in the parking lot and an adult male and adult female victim with gunshot wounds. They were both taken to a hospital, police said, but are expected to survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency said officers were called to the scene about an hour earlier for a disturbance. When agents arrived, the individual who allegedly caused the disturbance had left the apartment. Witnesses told police there was a party involving family members. Because of the amount of gunfire, we are fortunate that other innocent bystanders were not hit, said Lakewood Police Services Public Information Officer John Romero. A large area around the apartments was taped off for much of the day. Evidence markers were scattered up and down the parking lot, and neighbors watched as investigators used a metal detector to search for additional evidence. It looks like theyre searching for more bullets, one neighbor told FOX31s Kim Posey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Lakewood police, there were multiple shooters and there is a lot to process. There were gunshots throughout the apartment and outside. Theres damage to cars, walls it was a large scene, said Romero. Gunshot damage was found both inside and outside the apartment. No arrests had been made as of 4 p.m. on Wednesday. There has not been an arrest made yet. However, we do not believe that theres any sort of threat to the public. It does appear that this was a family, domestic type of situation where everyone was known to each other, Romero said. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Lakewood police at 303-980-7300. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) Thornton police arrested an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old in connection to a Tuesday evening shooting in which one person was injured, the Thornton Police Department announced Wednesday. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox The shooting happened at an apartment complex in the 11800 block of York Street, police said, involving people known to each other. Officers were in the area when they heard gunshots and found the 18-year-old with a handgun when they arrived, according to a Wednesday press release. The man attempted to flee after officers gave verbal commands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a short pursuit, an officer deployed a Taser and took the 18-year-old into custody. Police also said they detained two additional people, one of whom was the 16-year-old later arrested as a shooting suspect. Soon after the arrests and detainment, officers were told of a walk-in gunshot victim at a hospital. That person had non-life-threatening injuries, police said. This appears to be an isolated incident involving individuals known to one another, police said in the press release. There is no believed threat to the public. Police arrested the 18-year-old on suspicion of aggravated assault and illegal discharge of a firearm. He was released pending further investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrested the 16-year-old on suspicions of aggravated assault, illegal discharge of a firearm and possession of a handgun by a juvenile. He was booked into the Juvenile Detention Center. We understand that incidents like this are unsettling for our community, said Thornton Police Chief Jim Baird. Our officers responded swiftly to a dangerous situation, and were grateful no bystanders were injured. We remain committed to a thorough investigation and to holding those involved accountable, and we thank the residents and witnesses who stepped forward to provide information. Police are still actively investigating and said anyone with information can contact the Thornton Police Department Tip Line at 720-977-5069. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A local man recently celebrated his 100th birthday, he also served in three wars. Robert Irwin was born on June, 18th, 1925. He first enlisted in the Air Force in 1943, at only 18 years old. I went to combat training in Georgia, different places, and joined up with a ten-man crew and a B-24, said Robert Irwin. So once we began combat training, we trained up and down the United States, not in the ocean, dropping bombs and all that. Late in 1943, Irwin was sent overseas and became a 6th career gunner for a B-24, but Irwin and his men called it the 6th career goner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had 50% turnover for combat, Irwin said. Irwins first mission in World War II was in Germany, which involved dropping bombs on the railroad yards. I was kind of worried because, you know, I had no training, said Irwin. And thats the first mission. I dont know how badly I did. But anyway, we made it. We hit Bingen, Germany. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irwin faced many close calls during his time in World War 2. We got a cannon shell through our left wing. And so it must have been a dud because it only made a hole about this big, and it should have blown the wing off. Irwin said, But we got to France, and we crashed. We left the runway and flew across the field, and the nose wheel flew off. After a year went by on that mission, Irwin went on to successfully complete 30 missions before being put in the reserve in 1945, and began working with the National Guard. They gave me a job as armorer. I looked after the bombs, the rockets, and the handguns and all that stuff. And I had the key to the safe, Irwin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that job didnt last long for Irwin. All of a sudden, I got a call to report to Randolph Hills for pilot training, 13 months of pilot training, said Irwin. After his training, Irwin received news that hed be going overseas again. Youre going to Korea and youll be a B-26 pilot. Then I got a crew. I got a navigator, bombardier, and a gunner, Irwin said. During the Korean War, Irwin was involved in eliminating enemy supplies. In Korea, my job was to wipe out the trails of ammo coming down, trails toward the frontline. Irwin expressed, And the other thing was to blow up ammo behind the front lines. I never flew in the daytime. I flew black planes at night, with no light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irwin eventually completed 50 missions in Korea. After that, Irwin was given a medal and sent home, where he ended up working for the Red Cross, helping wounded victims from the Vietnam War. We had a shuttle for the Vietnam War, Irwin said. We would pick up burn patients at San Francisco and take them to San Antonio. Once again, that didnt last long. Irwin was sent to serve in Vietnam but not as a pilot, but to relay information about combat to army generals. The general wants to know, said Irwin. He wants to know whats going on in Vietnam, because theyre not telling him anything. Then somebody said send Irwin, because I served him below my grade, and theyll never notice me. So I got my best Sergeant, and I go down to the ticket book, and I went to Vietnam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Irwin has turned 100 years old. He has stayed proud of his service. Well, everyone was different. I had a different type of job and each one of them, and I just found that some things are the same in every war; a lot of things are different. Irwin said. Robert Irwin went on to become a founding member and a maintenance squadron commander of the 185th Air Refueling Wing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SCRANTON For more than a century, South Side Floral Shop has provided flowers for weddings, funerals, holidays and other special occasions. Started by their grandfather, John Stankowski, in October 1924, Mari Jane Mage Stankowski and her brother, John Jake Stankowski, carry on the family legacy following in the footsteps of their dad, Leon. The business started as a retail floral and landscaping operation before shifting strictly to flowers in the early 1970s, Mari Jane Stankowski said. Originally located at 1107 Pittston Ave., the shop relocated to its current spot at 1025 Pittston Ave. in the mid-to-late 40s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shop received two accolades last year to go along with its 100th anniversary: the Century Award from the Society of American Florists, which honors businesses that have served the floral industry for 100 years or more, and FTD recognized the shop as one of the Top 1,000 Florists in the United States for outstanding quality and service out of more than 20,000. * Owner of South Side Floral Shop Mari Jane Stankowski looks through old photographs of the family business in her shop on Pittston Avenue in South Scranton Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * A painting of Mari Jane Stankowskis grandfather John Stankowski, who started the South Side Floral Shop more than 100 years ago hangs on the wall of her shop in South Scranton Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Floral arrangements are ready to be picked up at South Side Floral Shop Tuesday. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * Woven baskets are for sale at South Side Floral Shop Tuesday. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * Owner of South Side Floral Shop Mari Jane Stankowski discusses her business on Pittston Avenue in South Scranton Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * The outside of South Side Floral Shop Tuesday. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) Show Caption 1 of 6 Owner of South Side Floral Shop Mari Jane Stankowski looks through old photographs of the family business in her shop on Pittston Avenue in South Scranton Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expand While theyve encountered many changes throughout the years, Stankowski stressed one thing remained constant: the stores loyal patrons. Its repeat customers they like the product and they keep coming back, she said. Weve had some families where weve done three generations of wedding flowers. Among the biggest shifts in the floral industry has been the evolution of funerals, Stankowski said. Before the funerals were like three days and now its maybe an hour before, and there are a lot of cremations, she said. That kind of business is down from previous years; were getting more requests for pieces people can send to the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Memorial Day once a hectic time around the shop has also become less prominent, Stankowski said. About 20 years ago, we would have 200 to 300 arrangements to get out and now if we have 20 its a lot, she said. The older generation is dying off and the younger generation isnt keeping up that tradition. A drastic spike in the price of flowers also creates challenges for both retailers and customers, Stankowski said. When you have to put food on the table and gas in your car, flowers are a luxury, she said. Many face-to-face interactions have been replaced by last-minute mobile orders due to customers busy lifestyles, Stankowski said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 90% of our business is through the internet now, she said. We did it before everything switched, but as the years go on you can see the shift in online ordering. Its like thank God we have it. While the long-term future of the shop remains to be seen, the Stankowski siblings plan to keep it going as long as they can. Were proud that were still here, Mari Jane Stankowski said. It doesnt look like there is anybody to take over the business because holidays are not your own. People always say Id love to be a florist, but I say give them one holiday and theyll be done. Years ago, for Easter, wed be up all night between corsages, arrangements and plants. The only holidays we get to enjoy are the Fourth of July and Labor Day. Mari Jane Stankowski, 66, grew up around the shop and noted its always been a family affair. My grandfather had six kids and they all worked in the business until they got married and moved away, she said. My aunt, Jane Mikulski, worked here for more than 50 years until it was time to retire and she still calls and checks up on us. From the early ages, Dad would say I need carnations or fill this container. And I remember answering the phone one time and the person on the other end was speaking Polish. MOSCOW, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Russia and Ukraine on Wednesday exchanged prisoners of conflict as delegations of the two countries held their third round of direct talks in the city of Istanbul, Turkiye. The swap was conducted in accordance with the agreements both sides reached during their last talks on June 2 in Istanbul, the Russian defense ministry said in a statement. The Russian servicemen are in Belarus and will be transported to Russia for treatment and rehabilitation in military medical institutions, it added. Russia and Ukraine held two rounds of direct talks on May 16 and June 2 in Istanbul. During the second round, they agreed on an "all-for-all" exchange of seriously ill and wounded prisoners, and soldiers under the age of 25, as well as the transfer of the bodies of fallen soldiers. More than 1,000 Ukrainian servicemen have returned home in accordance with the Istanbul agreements, according to Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. A bipartisan effort to force a binding House vote on releasing the Epstein files has picked up Republican support, though just how many in the GOP ultimately support the measure wont be seen at least until the lower chamber returns from its August recess. The bipartisan bill from Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) is one of two measures related to the Epstein files, which have effectively stymied the entire chamber and prompted Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to send members home early. It has the 11 Republican and nine Democratic co-sponsors as of Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massie and Khanna have vowed to file a discharge petition to bypass House leadership and force their bill to the floor with 218 signatures. Discharge petitions are rarely successful, and seldom used by members of the majority. But Massie and Khannas could be successful if all 11 GOP co-sponsors sign on with all Democrats. It would not be ready for a vote until September due to procedural rules. The measure would require Attorney General Pam Bondi to make public in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications and investigative materials in the possession of the Justice Department (DOJ) related to the late sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Massie has led the charge from the GOP side and taken heat from Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who on Tuesday said he was baffled about Massies motivations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House will now leave town Thursday, a day earlier than scheduled, for its recess. Democrats have hammered Johnson for avoiding any summer votes on the Epstein bills. Here are the Republicans who are backing the measure. Lauren Boebert Rep. Lauren Boebert (Colo.), a fierce ally of President Trump, was one of the first lawmakers to call for a special counsel to investigate the governments handling of the files. People are frustrated. We want to know if theres more information, the Colorado lawmaker said on NewsNation last week. Boebert was among the lawmakers who celebrated the Trump administrations move in February to reveal what it claimed were the Epstein files a move that ended up disappointing many observers who hoped for new revelations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2020, while Boebert was running for her first term in Congress, she appeared to indulge a conspiracy theory that Epstein did not die by suicide. Is 2020 a set up so we all forget Epstein didnt kill himself? she wrote then on X, adding a chin-scratching emoji. The medical examiner ruled that Epstein, who was in New York City jail awaiting trial, died by suicide in 2019. The DOJ and the FBI reaffirmed the cause of his death in an unnamed memo earlier this month, where officials also said that the disgraced financier did not keep the so-called client list. Jeff Van Drew Rep. Jeff Van Drew (N.J.) switched from the Democratic Party to the GOP in 2020 over Trumps first impeachment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New Jersey Republican, who represents a South Jersey district that includes Atlantic City, has not commented extensively on the Epstein files. The American people deserve full transparency, Van Drew said in a post on X announcing his support. Marjorie Taylor Greene Epstein is one of the rare issues on which Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (Ga.), one of the most prominent MAGA Republicans in Congress, has not been in lock-step with the president. The Georgia lawmaker has warned that voters could turn on Trump over the controversy. If you tell the base of people, who support you, of deep state treasonous crimes, election interference, blackmail, and rich powerful elite evil cabals, then you must take down every enemy of The People, she wrote on X Monday. If not, The base will turn and theres no going back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene celebrated Trumps move to ask to unseal grand jury transcripts related to Epstein last week, and derided Democratic outrage on the issue as fake. Eric Burlison Rep. Eric Burlison (Mo.), a two-term congressman, has blamed both the DOJ and the deep state for hiding files related to Epstein. He expressed skepticism early on about the DOJ-FBI memo, as well as their release of hours of surveillance footage from outside Epsteins cell. The footage is missing about one minute around midnight, which Bondi has said was due to standard resetting of the prisons security cameras every night. What is a reasonable person supposed to conclude when theyre first told the footage doesnt exist, only to see it later released, showing a different cell and missing a full minute? Burlison wrote on X the day the footage was released. Tim Burchett Rep. Tim Burchett (Tenn.) successfully pushed Tuesday for a subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee to subpoena Maxwell, Epsteins longtime associate who is serving a lengthy prison sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its about to get real. I just did this, he wrote on X after moving to issue the subpoena. Burchett has also criticized the Democrats, who celebrated the subpoena, for not caring about Epstein until Trump had been encircled in the controversy. If Democrats were serious about this issue, they wouldnt have waited four years to bring it up, he said on CNN last week. Cory Mills Rep. Cory Mills (Fla.) has not yet publicly commented on his decision to co-sponsor the resolution. He garnered headlines for a different reason last week after news broke of court filings alleging that he owed $85,000 in back rent at his D.C. apartment. Mills blamed an online processing error and has since said the debt is settled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mills was previously a Trump appointee on the Defense Business Board. He represents a coastal district in north-central Florida, centered on the town of New Smyrna Beach. Max Miller Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) said last week he signed on the petition because he believes in transparency and delivering the truth to the American people. Miller previously was Trumps senior advisor during his first White House term and was in the Marine Corps Reserves for six years. Also in recent but unrelated news, Miller said last month he was run off the road by a deranged man who was waving a Palestinian flag and hurled death threats before driving off. Eli Crane Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), a staunch Trump defender and member of the conservative Freedom Caucus, announced he would co-sign Massies measure last week, writing Add me. Transparency matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former Navy SEAL, who sits on the subcommittee on border security enforcement, told Axios thats been something that Ive supported from day one I think there needs to be transparency, and Im glad to see that this is bipartisan because it should be. Nancy Mace Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) has linked her support for Epstein transparency to her own alleged experience with sexual violence. In February, she accused four men, including her former fiance, of a range of sex crimes. All four men have denied accusations. Ive always been an advocate for women and children. The Jeffrey Epstein case is no different. I want to see arrests. I want to see any one who raped underage girls in handcuffs and behind bars, Mace, who is mulling a run for South Carolina governor, said in a X post last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No more passes for predators, she added. May God bless President Trump hes never let us down before! Mace said in an interview that she was in favor of appointing a special counsel to probe who might be involved in trafficking girls and young women, along with investigating if anyone destroyed evidence. If the Justice Department can be more transparent on this, it would be best for the country. People dont trust the government, and we havent given them much reason to over the past few years, Mace told The New York Times last week. Keith Self Rep. Keith Self (R-Texas), a military veteran, said during an interview on Wednesday that the bipartisan Massie-Khanna measure will easily pass the lower chamber if it comes to a full vote. We want to expose the criminals, we want to protect the victims. Recent reports said there were 1000 victims, we need to figure out who perpetrated the crimes against those victims and this seems to be the only way that were going to get to do it, Self told Newsmax. Self noted that the release of the Epstein files has widespread support among the American public and predicted that the petition will secure 218 votes in the House. But again, this is an issue of justice. Its an issue of transparency and frankly, accountability of the government. The American people want to see a government that is accountable to our employers, who are the citizens, the voters of the United States, the Texas Republican said. It is as simple as that. Tom Barrett Rep. Tom Barrett (R-Mich.) said last week there are too many questions and not enough answers about the Epstein files. I agree that its time to release them, which is why I put my name on a resolution to force their release and give the American people the transparency they deserve, Barrett wrote on X. Democrats At least nine Democrats have signed onto the measure, as the party looks to fuel GOP angst over the Epstein files and force tough votes on the issue. The co-sponsors are: Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (N.Y.), Rashida Tlaib (Mich.), Jim McGovern (Mass.), Hank Johnson (Ga.), Jamie Raskin (Md.), Ryan Patrick (N.Y.), Debbie Dingell (Mich.), Joe Neguse (Colo.), Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) and Nydia Velazquez (N.Y.). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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) One of Hawaiis most interesting cultural expressions is the bon dance. Brought to Hawaii by Japanese immigrants in 1925, these festivals have grown to several of these events that span July and August each year. The first bon dance in Hawaii was held at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, and the temple continues to be the standard bearer for what a bon dance is for our communities. PHOTOS: See what Honolulu looked like in the 1800s Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bon Dance, or Bon Odori, is a special dance performed during Obon, a Japanese holiday to honor and remember ancestors who have passed away. People believe the dance helps welcome the spirits of the dead. Men, women and children all join in to dance in a circle with each region in Japan having its own version of the dance and music that was brought to Hawaii. PHOTOS: Where to find Hawaiis oldest bars The Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin Bon Dance lit up the heart of Honolulu on June 27 and 28. Colorful yukata, the sound of taiko drums and long rows of lanterns drew hundreds to the temple grounds for two nights of celebration, remembrance and joy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bon dance is a time when we remember our departed loved ones, said Rimban Yuika Hasebe. Everybody loves someone precious, you know? This is a good time to remember them and express our appreciation to them. 6 ways to navigate ICE observations and your rights For Hasebe, originally from Japan, Hawaii bon dances stand out for their sense of community. My first very big experience about the bon dance is Hawaii. I love how Hawaii bon dances and people here come together to celebrate, she said. There are some traditional music and some are really late pop music, but everybody gathers and dances. Thats really special about here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bon dances are more than music and motion. They honor the lives of those who came before and bring generations together. Rick Tabor, a board member, event organizer and longtime volunteer at the temple, recalled his first bon dance experience 25 years ago. We would come to the dances here. And one year we went with my niece, my sister-in-law and all of their friends, he said. We were standing over here, and my niece said, Im going to go out and dance and record you. Tabor said that moment turned comedic when the next song started. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You I did not know what I was doing. So, I started clowning around. And shes filming, Tabor explained. Theres a lady behind me going nuts. Im just being totally delirious. Im having a good time. But shes not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Tabor serves as co-chair of the event and helps to pass on the experience to new generations. Dexter Mar, ministers assistant and temple historian, shared how bon dances build bonds across neighborhoods and backgrounds. Its a real community effort. Theres a lot of military and volunteers that help, Mar said. Its packed and very joyful and kind of an exciting kickoff to bon dance season. Volunteers, including Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from Troop 49, helped prepare for weeks ahead of the event. We start to plan about four months prior to the date, said Wendy Harman of Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin and organizer for boy and girl scout volunteers. It involves the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and all of the village of the temple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scouts werent just helpers; they led the effort. We try to make it scout led; so, they know the importance of working hard and giving back to their community, Harman said. Everything that you see today has been set up by Troop 49, Boy Scouts. The 73rd Cherry Blossom Festival court joined the festivities and connected cultural traditions with modern leadership. We are here with the Cherry Blossom Festival helping out at different bon dances throughout the summer, said Queen Ariel Sanders. The Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the longest continuously running ethnic festivals here in Hawaii, celebrating Japanese culture and empowering women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are super excited to be out here today and hopefully for you guys the rest of the summer, she added. You can click here to learn more about Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 The Honpa Hongwanji bon dance, steeped in meaning and memory, keeps building bridges between generations. Whether through music, movement or shared memories, it remains a living story of Hawaiis Japanese heritage and the strength of its communities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. A historic but vacant building in downtown Middletown that began as a parochial school more than a century ago would be converted to 16 apartments under a developers plan. Parker Benjamin Inc. is proposing to preserve the three-story brick school at St. Johns Square, which has been shut down since 2010. The developer will lay out specifics for the planning and zoning commission at a hearing next month, but has indicated the project would create attainably priced housing for the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farmington-based Parker Benjamin has been involved in historic redevelopment projects in New London, Killingly and Winsted, and has others either under way or in planning in East Hartford as well as Higganum. Its plan is Middletown is to share the existing parking lot with St. Johns Church, an arrangement endorsed by Rev. James Thaikoottathil, pastor of both St. Johns and St. Sebastian Church. Parker Benjamins application pledges to put aside four apartments for tenants earning no more than 80% of the regions median income, and would target the other 12 to be affordable to people making 100% or less of the regions median income. City tax records list the St. John School as 16,000 square feet and indicate it was built 142 years ago. It operated as part of St. Johns Church, described as the oldest church in the Norwich Archdiocese. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after its beginning in 1843, St. Johns Church established a parochial school. For some years the school was conducted by lay teachers. From 1866 to 1872 the school was part of the public school system of Middletown, according to a record of the Connecticut Historical Commission. In May of 1872 seven nuns from the Sisters of Mercy order in Ireland arrived to re-establish religious control of the school. By 1896 some 500 pupils were being taught there. The current school building was erected in 1887 and blessed in 1888. The document describes a building thats undergone remarkably little change over the decades. A small front schoolhouse belfry has been replaced by a raised central gable and cross. This change, and the installation of interior wiring and plumbing around 1900, are virtually the only alterations, it reads. This school building completes the basic complex of St. Johns Church properties. It constitutes an essential component of the complex, both in siting, since it fills in the block on the west, and in function, serving as the educational wing of St. Johns mission to the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The record is undated but appears to be from the 1980s or 90s, as it reads Johns School continues strong in the last quarter of the twentieth century, despite a nationwide decline in parochial education. The school closed in 2010 and city leaders are eager to see to building back in productive use. Parker Benjamins proposal is committing to preserving it. The structure is a contributing building to Middletowns historic inventory and is the subject of a State Historic Preservation Office and National Park Service tax credit application. All exterior rehabilitation work will comply with the Secretary of the Interiors standards with no planned changes to the exterior, the company wrote in its application. Earlier this year, Manchester gave the go-ahead for Parker Benjamin to convert the former Nathan Hale School into 41 apartments. Town leaders three weeks ago approved tax incentives to ensure the project goes forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company is also restoring the former Scovil Hoe mill complex in Haddam into a mixed-use development, and is working with East Hartford on plans to restore the Church Corners Inn. Parker Benjamin restores certified historic structures all over the state, Brian Lyman, a director of the company, said Tuesday. Some are schools, some are mills or downtown offices. COLUMBIA, S.C. (WBTW) Two California men have been indicted after authorities seized 156 lbs. of fentanyl in what is believed to be the largest fentanyl seizure in South Carolina history, the Department of Justice said Wednesday. Two brothers Alberto Rios-Landeros, 26, and Chris Guadalupe Rios-Landeros, 23 both of Delano, California, have been indicted on charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Both face a maximum penalty of up to life in prison. Drug Enforcement Administration agents, Lexington County sheriffs deputies, and South Carolina State Transport Police officers conducted two coordinated traffic stops in Lexington and Richland counties on July 1, the DOJ said. Inside a tractor-trailer that was transporting products with a legitimate business purpose, authorities found large packages of illegal drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators believe the seized narcotics were sourced in Mexico and transported across the southern border, according to the DOJ. On top of the fentanyl, authorities also seized about 44 lbs. of methamphetamine. The seized fentanyl had the potential to kill 36 million people, according to the DEA. It had a street value of $1.7 million. This isnt just a drug bust; its a life-saving intervention on an unprecedented scale for our state, US Attorney for the District of South Carolina Bryan Stirling said. Law enforcement has been working together at every level to keep South Carolina safe, and were committed to dismantling the criminal networks that bring this poison into our communities. The brothers were arrested after the traffic stop and indicted on Tuesday. Advertisement 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. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LONDON (AP) A shooting in a rural area of Northern Ireland on Wednesday left a woman and two children dead and a man seriously wounded, police and the ambulance service said. All four were from the same household. Police did not indicate a possible motive, but Jemma Dolan, a member of the Northern Ireland Assembly from the area, called it a domestic incident in a post on social media. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said that there was no ongoing risk to the public from the shooting outside the village of Maguiresbridge, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) southwest of Belfast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police and paramedics were called to a house just after 8 a.m. Wednesday, where two people were pronounced dead. Two others were taken to hospitals, where one later died. The fourth was in serious condition, police said. All four had sustained gunshot wounds, and I can confirm that all four individuals are from the same household, police Superintendent Robert McGowan said. Police later said the three people killed were a woman in her 40s and two children, a boy and a girl. McGowan said officers were summoned by a phone call from inside the house and arived to find a very harrowing scene. This is a quiet rural location and Im aware that this tragic event will have sent shockwaves of sadness throughout the community," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hilary Benn, the government's secretary of state for Northern Ireland, said the news from Maguiresbridge is tragic and deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the victims, their relatives and the local community in Fermanagh. Deborah Erskine, another local lawmaker, said that the community was stunned by the shooting in a rural, quiet area. Everyone is deeply affected by what has happened this morning, she said. My deepest condolences are with the families of those who have been killed as a result of this incident. Their lives have been turned upside down this morning." BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Baton Rouge Police Department arrested two men accused of a drive-by shooting. According to an affidavit, officers were called to the 5600 block of Autumn Blossom Drive about a reported shooting. Upon arrival, a tenant of the apartment complex notified authorities that her home had been struck by gunfire. While on scene, a complainant said they saw a Chevy Impala leaving the scene at high speeds. They also said they last saw the vehicle on South Sunset Hill Avenue with a flat tire. After officers arrived at the vehicle with the flat tire, they saw three males. One man was seen wearing a black mask, a black jacket, and red shoes, running into the residence on S. Sunset Hill Avenue. The man exited the building shortly after. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once all men were detained, the three were identified as Javeon Brown, 21, Zavieon Thomas, 18, and a juvenile. Officers found an AK pistol in the trunk of the vehicle and two spent shell casings inside the center console, and one on the passenger floor. Officers believe one of the suspects ran into the home to hide evidence. The affidavit said that BRPD contacted the tenant and asked if they could search the home; the tenant voluntarily agreed. After the search, officers found a Glock handgun with an extended magazine under the covers of Thomas bed. During questioning, Thomas and Brown admitted to having the guns and firing rounds, allegedly in self-defense, after someone else was shooting at them. When asked who the juvenile was, they responded that he was their little brother. The mother assured officers that the juvenile was not her son, but a friend to her children. Thomas and Brown were both arrested and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on charges of aggravated criminal damage to property, assault by drive-by shooting, and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles. Thomas has an additional charge of illegal use of weapons. The juvenile was taken to the EBR Juvenile Detention Center. Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. Two sisters were found dead after drowning in a septic pit that was under construction in Belize, according to multiple local news outlets. Around 5 p.m. local time on Monday, July 21, police were alerted that the bodies of Lauri, 7, and Anllely Argueta, 8, had been discovered in an open septic pit in Bella Vista in the southern Toledo district of the Central American country, 7 News Belize and Greater Belize reported. The sisters had gone out to run an errand for their grandmother when they wandered onto a construction site. After they didnt return home, the family went in search od them and found their bicycles and clothes in the area before finding them unresponsive in the water, according to the outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They never arrived there they took another route and that's how they ended up [at the pit], their mother, Delmi Argueta, told 7 News Belize. One of them was found without clothes and the other had on her clothes and they hid their bikes behind the house that was there. When I called my mom, I asked if she had seen them and she said no. So she came out and that's when she saw their bikes, Delmi said. "When I got there, they told me they were in that pit, and so I jumped in to take them out but they were already dead." "I think that they wanted to swim in the water but they didn't know that the pit was deep we didn't even know that the pit was there," Delmi continued. The girls grandmother Ligia Contreras told Greater Belize, I found a stick, I stuck it in, I felt there was something there, and I called out to her to hurry up because they had fallen into the well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Bella Vista chairman, Jose Morales, the girls were heading home when the younger sister decided to take a shower in the septic pit and drowned. The older sister jumped into the water to try and save her but also drowned, local radio outlet Love FM reported. Jennifer_Sharp/Getty Aerial View Belize Aerial View Belize 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. Morales indicated that septic pits such as the one in this incident were sometimes left exposed, incidentally. People take advantage of the dry season to do septics and they cannot finish it or cover it before the rainy season starts," he said. "This is what causes the flooding and when its already full with water they cannot finish. So we need to address all of this to our community and this is something serious that we need to look into." Police are reportedly investigating the incident. PEOPLE has reached out to them for comment but did not immediately hear back. Read the original article on People CHICAGO A 2-year-old girl who was abducted from an apartment during a home invasion on the citys South Side has been safely located, according to Chicago police. According to police, three armed offenders, including a woman known to the family, broke into an apartment on the 4800 block of South Michigan Avenue around 4:50 a.m. Wednesday. The offenders, the woman and two men, abducted a 2-year-old girl before stealing a vehicle, among other property, from the apartment, according to investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The offenders then fled the scene with the child in the grandmothers vehicle. The Illinois State Police later issued an Endangered Missing Person advisory for the missing toddler. Search for missing teen in Lake Michigan near Zion now recovery effort: officials The grandmother of the toddler told WGN News that five suspects, including the girls mother, allegedly broke into her home. She said they were all wearing masks, but she recognized one of them. They put a gun to my sister and brothers head, about four guys and the mother of the child. And they basically just came in and took her, said the grandmother, who wants to remain anonymous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grandmother said the 2-year-olds mother suffers from mental illness, and her biggest fear was that the woman would hurt her granddaughter. LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland The grandmother added that intruders tried unsuccessfully to kidnap her nine-year-old daughter. Around 8 p.m. Wednesday, Chicago police say the toddler was located. No further information has been 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 WGN-TV. When summer turns up the heat, cities can start to feel like an oven, as buildings and pavement trap the suns warmth and vehicles and air conditioners release more heat into the air. The temperature in an urban neighborhood with few trees can be more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit (5.5 Celsius) higher than in nearby suburbs. That means air conditioning works harder, straining the electrical grid and leaving communities vulnerable to power outages. There are some proven steps that cities can take to help cool the air planting trees that provide shade and moisture, for example, or creating cool roofs that reflect solar energy away from the neighborhood rather than absorbing it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But do these steps pay off everywhere? We study heat risk in cities as urban ecologists and have been exploring the impact of tree-planting and reflective roofs in different cities and different neighborhoods across cities. What were learning can help cities and homeowners be more targeted in their efforts to beat the heat. The wonder of trees Urban trees offer a natural defense against rising temperatures. They cast shade and release water vapor through their leaves, a process akin to human sweating. That cools the surrounding air and reduces afternoon heat. Adding trees to city streets, parks and residential yards can make a meaningful difference in how hot a neighborhood feels, with blocks that have tree canopies nearly 3 F (1.7 C) cooler than blocks without trees. Comparing maps of New Yorks vegetation and temperature shows the cooling effect of parks and neighborhoods with more trees. In the map on the left, lighter colors are areas with fewer trees. Light areas in the map on the right are hotter. NASA/USGS Landsat But planting trees isnt always simple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In hot, dry cities, trees often require irrigation to survive, which can strain already limited water resources. Trees must survive for decades to grow large enough to provide shade and release enough water vapor to reduce air temperatures. Annual maintenance costs about US$900 per tree per year in Boston can surpass the initial planting investment. Most challenging of all, dense urban neighborhoods where heat is most intense are often too packed with buildings and roads to grow more trees. How cool roofs can help on hot days Another option is cool roofs. Coating rooftops with reflective paint or using light-colored materials allows buildings to reflect more sunlight back into the atmosphere rather than absorbing it as heat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These roofs can lower the temperature inside an apartment building without air conditioning by about 2 to 6 F (1 to 3.3 C), and can cut peak cooling demand by as much as 27% in air-conditioned buildings, one study found. They can also provide immediate relief by reducing outdoor temperatures in densely populated areas. The maintenance costs are also lower than expanding urban forests. Two workers apply a white coating to the roof of a row home in Philadelphia. AP Photo/Matt Rourke However, like trees, cool roofs come with limits. Cool roofs work better on flat roofs than sloped roofs with shingles, as flat roofs are often covered by heat-trapping rubber and are exposed to more direct sunlight over the course of an afternoon. Cities also have a finite number of rooftops that can be retrofitted. And in cities that already have many light-colored roofs, a few more might help lower cooling costs in those buildings, but they wont do much more for the neighborhood. By weighing the trade-offs of both strategies, cities can design location-specific plans to beat the heat. Choosing the right mix of cooling solutions Many cities around the world have taken steps to adapt to extreme heat, with tree planting and cool roof programs that implement reflectivity requirements or incentivize cool roof adoption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Detroit, nonprofit organizations have planted more than 166,000 trees since 1989. In Los Angeles, building codes now require new residential roofs to meet specific reflectivity standards. In a recent study, we analyzed Bostons potential to lower heat in vulnerable neighborhoods across the city. The results demonstrate how a balanced, budget-conscious strategy could deliver significant cooling benefits. For example, we found that planting trees can cool the air 35% more than installing cool roofs in places where trees can actually be planted. However, many of the best places for new trees in Boston arent in the neighborhoods that need help. In these neighborhoods, we found that reflective roofs were the better choice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By investing less than 1% of the citys annual operating budget, about US$34 million, in 2,500 new trees and 3,000 cool roofs targeting the most at-risk areas, we found that Boston could reduce heat exposure for nearly 80,000 residents. The results would reduce summertime afternoon air temperatures by over 1 F (0.6 C) in those neighborhoods. While that reduction might seem modest, reductions of this magnitude have been found to dramatically reduce heat-related illness and death, increase labor productivity and reduce energy costs associated with building cooling. Not every city will benefit from the same mix. Bostons urban landscape includes many flat, black rooftops that reflect only about 12% of sunlight, making cool roofs that reflect over 65% of sunlight an especially effective intervention. Boston also has a relatively moist growing season that supports a thriving urban tree canopy, making both solutions viable. Phoenix, left, already has a lot of light-colored roots, compared with Boston, right, where roofs are mostly dark. Imagery Google 2025. In places with fewer flat, dark rooftops suitable for cool roof conversion, tree planting may offer more value. Conversely, in cities with little room left for new trees or where extreme heat and drought limit tree survival, cool roofs may be the better bet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phoenix, for example, already has many light-colored roofs. Trees might be an option there, but they will require irrigation. Getting the solutions where people need them Adding shade along sidewalks can do double-duty by giving pedestrians a place to get out of the sun and cooling buildings. In New York City, for example, street trees account for an estimated 25% of the entire urban forest. Cool roofs can be more difficult for a government to implement because they require working with building owners. That often means cities need to provide incentives. Louisville, Kentucky, for example, offers rebates of up to $2,000 for homeowners who install reflective roofing materials, and up to $5,000 for commercial businesses with flat roofs that use reflective coatings. In Boston, planting trees, left, and increasing roof reflectivity, right, were both found to be effective ways to cool urban areas. Ian Smith et al. 2025 Efforts like these can help spread cool roof benefits across densely populated neighborhoods that need cooling help most. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As climate change drives more frequent and intense urban heat, cities have powerful tools for lowering the temperature. With some attention to what already exists and whats feasible, they can find the right budget-conscious strategy that will deliver cooling benefits for everyone. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Ian Smith, Boston University and Lucy Hutyra, Boston University Read more: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lucy Hutyra has received funding from the U.S. federal government and foundations including the World Resources Institute and Burroughs Wellcome Fund for her scholarship on urban climate and mitigation strategies. She was a recipient of a 2023 MacArthur Fellowship for her work in this area. Ian Smith 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. Sen. Brian Strickland has a laugh during the 2025 legislative session. Strickland is one of nearly a dozen state senators running for higher office next year. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder When the Georgia Senate stunned the state Capitol and wrapped up work before the typical midnight deadline on the last night of the 2025 session, a visibly frustrated House Speaker Jon Burns took a not-so-subtle dig at his friends across the hall. The House is focusing on its priorities of getting the job done, and were not worried about moving on to some other higher office, the powerful Republican told reporters shortly before gaveling out his own chamber. We came here to do a job, and we did our job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the exception of the presidency, just about every position in politics can be considered a stepping stone to something bigger. But its not often (maybe once every four or eight years) that ambitious and powerful lawmakers suddenly go from colleagues to campaign rivals as they all seek to add another title to their resume. The tension is already creeping into Georgias upper chamber, where greetings on the Senate floor have started to sound more aspirational than ceremonial. Its not out of the ordinary, a former lawmaker once said, to hear someone walk onto the Senate floor and randomly shout, Good morning, Congressman! But its becoming more than just a joke tossed around the chamber. At least 10 state senators Republican and Democrat are leaving behind their seats and leadership positions to run for some other higher office, in the colorful words of the speaker. And that number could grow as more offices open up ahead of the 2026 elections. Lets start at the top: Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who serves as president of the senate, recently launched a bid for governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three Republican state senators have already entered the race to succeed Jones: Steve Gooch of Dahlonega, John F. Kennedy of Macon and Blake Tillery of Vidalia. State Sen. Josh McLaurin, a Sandy Springs attorney, is the only known Democratic contender so far. With Attorney General Chris Carr also fighting for the governors chair, Republican state Sens. Brian Strickland of McDonough and Bill Cowsert of Athens, both lawyers, are aiming to become the states next top prosecutor. State Sen. Emanuel Jones is challenging a longtime incumbent in a metro Atlanta congressional seat. And state Sen. Jason Esteves is running in the Democratic primary for governor. A lot of these names arent backbenchers they are synonymous with the levers of power in the chamber. Kennedy is the president pro tempore, Gooch is the majority leader, and Tillery chairs the budget-drafting appropriations committee. Strickland chairs the judiciary committee, and Cowsert is also a former Senate leader (and a brother-in-law to outgoing Gov. Brian Kemp). And a change in Republican bylaws means that many of these members must immediately stand down from their roles in leadership while they campaign for a different office, which means new leaders are already being named ahead of the 2026 session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While this mass exodus of seasoned legislators definitely says a lot about their own ambitions (and how awkward next years session is going to be), its also a sign of the power transition underway at the state Capitol with Gov. Brian Kemp entering the final year of his term. The governors mansion isnt the only big office up for grabs. Insurance Commissioner John King is running to oust Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper are said to be plotting their next moves as well. More open statewide offices could lead to more lawmakers ditching their annual 40 days of work in search for higher office. With several key senators already departing, however, the chamber is set to lose years of wisdom and institutional knowledge as key offices prepare to change hands. So the next governor and lieutenant governor wont be the only ones learning on the job a lot of their legislative partners will be new to their roles as well. Strickland says the looming leadership turnover brings a great opportunity for new faces and names to step up to the plate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think youre going to see a chance for new people to step in who might have different leadership styles, but will maybe bring some needed changes in some particular areas, he said recently while on break from court. In the short term, lawmakers will need to convene for one more session before next November. But with so many senators running for other offices, how many of them will be focused on doing the work they were elected to do and not itching to get back out on the campaign trail? I think its incumbent on all of us who are running statewide to set [our campaigns] aside for those 40 days and to do the job we were elected to do for those 40 days, finished Strickland. Obviously theres going to be some tension. My hope is that it does not come from me. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX TEHRAN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A helicopter of the Iranian navy on Wednesday warned a U.S. destroyer against approaching Iran's territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman, forcing it to change its course, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. The USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) sought to sail towards waters under Iran's supervision at around 10:00 a.m. local time (0630 GMT) on Wednesday when it got the warning from the helicopter dispatched immediately by the air unit of the Iranian Navy's Third Naval Region, also known as Nabovvat, the report said. According to Tasnim, after receiving the warning, the U.S. destroyer threatened to target the Iranian helicopter and asked it to leave the region. The Iranian helicopter "continued its mission decisively and repeated its warning." The U.S. destroyer reiterated its threat, but changed its course southward following continued warning, the report said. There was no immediate comment from the U.S. side. The latest confrontation comes after the United States on June 22 targeted Iran's nuclear sites during a 12-day war with Israel. Artem Naliato, a 21-year-old Ukrainian who had been adopted as a child by an Italian family, has been killed in action while fighting against Russia. Artem joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a military volunteer and also found his biological brother in Ukraine. Source: Italian outlets Il Fatto Quotidiano and ANSA, citing the mayor of Tribano, the town where Artem lived Details: Artem spent part of his childhood in the Italian province of Padua he was adopted by a local family at the age of 12. He integrated into the local community and had a job. However, in August 2022, Artem decided to return to Ukraine, where he found his brother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He later joined the Ukrainian forces as a volunteer. A few weeks ago, Artem visited his relatives in Tribano and then returned to Ukraine. He was killed in a Russian strike on a training ground on 14 July. Il Giornale reported that Artem had been taken to hospital in a critical condition, where doctors were unable to save his life. "We say farewell to Artem Naliato with immense sorrow. He chose to fight for the freedom of his homeland, for which he had a deep attachment," said Tribano Mayor Massimo Cavazzana. "We mourn together with his family [] He was drawn back to Ukraine by his bond with his brother and his desire to help make Ukraine free." Background: In January 2025, Jordan Maclachlan, a volunteer combat medic from Scotland, was killed in action. He had been fighting for Ukraine since 2022. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A group of 21 attorneys general filed a Monday lawsuit against the Trump administration over a February executive order that ousts migrants without legal status from social service programs. Under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), the U.S. departments of Health and Human Services, Education, Labor and Justice have reworked requirements to gain access to federal services effective July 10. Many programs, including Head Start, an early-education opportunity for low-income parents, will ensure participants are subject to immigration verification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) is leading the effort to combat new policies alongside colleagues from Wisconsin, Maine, Nevada, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota and New Mexico, in addition to other states. These rules took effect immediately or with little notice, bypassing public input and ignoring real-world consequences. The policies apply not just to undocumented immigrants, but also to some people with legal status, including student visa holders, temporary workers, and exchange visitors, Jamess office said in a Monday press release. In addition, the attorneys general warn that even U.S. citizens and lawful residents could be denied services, as many low-income individuals lack government-issued identification, they added. The White House did not immediately respond to The Hills request for comment on the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The February executive order titled Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders said current social service operations undermine the principles and limitations outlined by Congress in the PRWORA law. Title IV of PRWORA says it is policy that migrants without legal status cannot depend on public resources to meet their needs and urges the government to remove the incentive for illegal immigration provided by the availability of public benefits, as written in a White House release. My Administration will uphold the rule of law, defend against the waste of hard-earned taxpayer resources, and protect benefits for American citizens in need, including individuals with disabilities and veterans, President Trump wrote in the order. The Trump administration pledged to undertake the largest mass deportation effort in the countrys history. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has acted on the initiative and increased raids in local hospitals, churches and places of employment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president also signed the big, beautiful bill into law on July 4, mandating a larger funding allotment for immigration enforcement efforts and cutting Medicaid funding for states that support migrants without legal status. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PIERCE, Nebraska (KCAU) A Nebraska School District is asking its community to approve an over $20 million bond that would fix up its K-12 buildings. After talking with the Pierce Public Schools superintendent, he said many of their buildings are old and outdated, and this will be the first referendum the school has done since the 1990s. The intent of the bond is to improve all our facilities, which consist of both renovations and new additions, said Kendall Steffensen, the superintendent for Pierce Public Schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A portion of the $25.9 million would be used to fix and add onto Pierce Elementary School. New additions at the elementary would consist of a new secure front entrance, a new waiting area at the front, new offices, as well as the addition of two classrooms, and the addition of a practice-size gymnasium, said Steffensen. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say these new additions would greatly improve the elementary. Currently, our gymnasium and our cafeteria are in the same space. So to separate those, adding a hallway so that some classrooms have access without walking through another classroom, said Steffensen. On top of fixing up the K-6 building, plans to improve the high school are also included. Again, a new secure vestibule, a new office area that connects to that vestibule. As well as renovations of our special education room, our vocational agriculture area, and industrial tech space, as well as a new STEM lab, said Steffensen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pierce Public Schools facilities were built around the 1950s, and with new programs, STEM enters schools and special education have changed since being built. Steffensen says they need more space. Special education is no longer just a teacher in a room. Occupational therapy services, physical therapy services, speech services, and we have also expanded into licensed mental health practitioners. Each of those people requires a space. Some need a much larger space, while others need just an office, said Steffensen. Steffensen wants to emphasize that if passed, it will raise property taxes; a $100,000 home could expect to pay around $3,475 over the 25-year life of the bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, its crucial to make these improvements. The planned additions are to enhance our curriculum, whether that be in a STEM lab or an elementary classroom or our special education rooms, said Steffensen. As of Monday, ballots have been sent out to the community, and for locals votes to count, they must have their ballots into the Pierce County Courthouse before August 12. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A mom of two has died after she was involved in a car crash while returning from her own birthday party. The crash occurred west of the Punahou Street overpass on the H-1 W Freeway in the Makiki area of Honolulu around 3:45 a.m. local time on Sunday, July 20, according to the Honolulu Police Department (HPD). A 25-year-old woman was traveling eastbound in the westbound lane of the freeway when she struck a 77-year-old man traveling in the opposite direction, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, was pulled from the vehicle by bystanders, they added. She was later transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The woman has been identified as Kylee Chun, according to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and ABC affiliate KITV. The mom of two later died, according to a GoFundMe campaign started to support her family following the tragedy. Go Fund Me Kylee Noheamaikalani Chun, who died in a crash in Honolulu on Sunday, July 20 Kylee Noheamaikalani Chun, who died in a crash in Honolulu on Sunday, July 20 Chun was returning home from her own birthday party when the crash occurred, according to family friend Ying Beejay Drury, who organized the online fundraiser. Drury said Chun moved to Hawaii in January after surviving the California unexpected fires and custody battle with her ex," and sought a "safer, more peaceful life for her children." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chun was in her second year of college and was recently hired for a new position, Drury added, noting her entire life was devoted to building a better future for her children. Four days before the crash, Chuns mom and younger sister moved to Hawaii as well to help Chun raise her two boys, ages 3 and 5. "She's so young and she still had so much more to do so much more to do and more to live for," Drury told KITV. Drury described Chun on GoFundMe as being full of life, laughter, and hope for the future." Speaking with KITV, Drury said Chun was always spontaneous with her boys and always doing fun stuff." Go Fund Me Kylee Noheamaikalani Chun, who died in a crash in Honolulu on Sunday, July 20 Kylee Noheamaikalani Chun, who died in a crash in Honolulu on Sunday, July 20 "It's hard like how do you tell a three and five year old that your mom's now coming back home?" she added. 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 77-year-old man also involved in the crash was transported to the hospital in good condition, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation into the crash is ongoing. It is unclear if drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash, but police said speed is not believed to have been a factor. Read the original article on People SPRINGFIELD As she was taking a leisurely walk around her Holland neighborhood on a Sunday summer morning in 2000, the woman heard footfalls behind her. She thought it was a jogger. It wasnt. It was a rapist. The man grabbed her from behind, covering her mouth, and dragged her into the woods. During a hearing on Tuesday in Hampden Superior Court, a prosecutor laid out the states case against Jamie Dodge, 49, formerly a resident of Maine, accused of aggravated rape and kidnapping in connection with the July 23, 2000, attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 25-year-old case is particularly notable, since it was the first to be cracked using genetic testing to attempt to solve cold cases including unsolved homicides and sexual assaults. After decades with no leads, investigators linked Dodge through a DNA sample that first came from his father, Assistant Hampden District Attorney Elizabeth Dunphy Farris told a judge. The victim recounted the harrowing experience to Judge Tracy Duncan, after Farris recommended a sentence of 15 to 18 years; The Republican does not identify survivors of sexual assault. Defense lawyer Nicholas Raring countered with a recommendation of seven years, arguing that Dodge was never charged with other crimes after the incident in 2000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes reformed himself. He matured, he said to Duncan. Dodge, 49, had a previous history of domestic abuse, racking up seven restraining orders before the attack, when he was 24. He had a history of violence against women, Farris said. Farris told Duncan that Dodge threatened to cut her bad if she didnt comply with his demands. I fully expected to feel a knife in my back, the victim told the judge. She added that, to this day, she suffers from panic attacks and avoids many social activities. The victim limped to the Holland Police Department, about a half-mile away, and alerted an officer to the attack just after noontime that day. The patrolman noted scratches and bruises on her arms and knees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After weighing the case Wednesday, Duncan recommended a 12-to-15-year sentence. The hearing was a state proceeding in which the judge recommends a sentence, which the defendant can take or leave. Dodge will make a decision to either plead guilty or go to trial after that. This story has been updated. Read the original article on MassLive. A second defendant has been sentenced for playing a part in a scheme to rob two Cincinnati-area mail carriers at gunpoint in 2023. The case against 22-year-old Lorenzo Brandon was among two dozen similar cases in recent years in both Cincinnati and Columbus, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Officials last year called mail carrier robberies an "epidemic." Still image from a Ring camera video, showing the robbery of a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier on July 12 in Colerain Township. The robberies involving Brandon happened in October 2023, on a Saturday, "in broad daylight," said Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Mangan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mangan said the robberies, which happened in Westwood and Colerain Township, were "traumatizing events" that "put postal carriers and the public at serious risk." Brandon was in the car with his co-defendant Antonio Toombs, 22, and an unnamed juvenile when they robbed two mail carriers of their "arrow keys." The universal keys can be used to open blue collection mailboxes. Investigators say the robbers would then take personal mail and used chemicals to "wash" checks of the pen ink, erasing the original writing and allowing them to rewrite the checks with their own information. Dlott sentenced Brandon, who had no previous criminal record as an adult, to 3 years in prison. She is allowing him to self-report to prison on Jan. 2, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toombs has been sentenced to 6 years in prison. Court documents show authorities found a bookbag in Toombs' bedroom that contained one of the stolen arrow keys. They also found three guns, checks which did not belong to either Toombs or Brandon, debit cards in other people's names, a printer and the chemicals used to "wash" the checks. Toombs and Brandon both pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and conspiracy to use a gun during a violent crime, according to court documents. The juvenile, who is thought to be the one who brandished the firearm, is not facing federal charges for his role in the thefts but was referred to Hamilton County Juvenile Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the morning of the robberies, according to court documents, there were text messages between Toombs and a person believed to be the juvenile, planning to rob mail carriers that day. "I don't even know where a mailman at," Toombs texted. "They all around. Drive around and we find one. It's simple," the person replied. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: 2nd defendant in Cincinnati-area mail carrier robberies sentenced After a second woman was found dead and a man remains missing, authorities are sharing more insight into what caused a group of friends to go over a waterfall in Oregon over the weekend. The six individuals had previously traveled across the world together, the parents of one of the identified victims confirmed to the Sun Sentinel. As search efforts entered the fifth day, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office revealed that the six people were floating on inner tubes that were tied together when they missed the last exit area at Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River, just 10 miles southwest of Bend, on July 19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators have learned that the three survivors jumped from their tubes and made it to shore, while the other three were swept into the main rapids, authorities said in an update on Wednesday, July 23. That Saturday afternoon, at around 3 p.m. local time, the sheriffs office received a 911 call about the incident. When emergency responders arrived, three people were rescued from the river and transported to a local hospital, and one person was pronounced dead at the scene, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office said. After days of search efforts, divers found the body of a second female victim just after 11 a.m. on July 22. The female was found below Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River west of Bend, the sheriffs office said yesterday. Search and rescue operations continue in the area as one individual is still missing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the latest update on Wednesday, the sheriffs office identified the two victims as Amanda Loyd, a woman from Rockwall, Texas, who just turned 40 last week. The other victim is Lindsay Bashan, a 33-year-old woman from Parkland, Fla. Search efforts are ongoing for the final missing person, a man, whose identity will not be shared until he is located. Out of respect for privacy, the names of the three survivors will not be shared publicly, authorities said. Andy Tullis/The Bulletin via AP Dillon Falls in 2016. Dillon Falls in 2016. The sheriff's office emphasized the danger that the group was facing when they approached the falls. "Dillon Falls is an extremely dangerous section of the Deschutes River, marked by a dramatic 15-foot drop and classified as a Class 5 Rapid," officials said. "It features long, violent, and obstructed sections of whitewater with rocks, logs, and other debris that pose serious hazards even to experienced paddlers." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chances of anybody surviving going down the falls is very minimal, Jason Carr, a Deschutes County Sheriffs Office spokesperson, told The New York Times. When contacted by PEOPLE, the sheriff's office confirmed that the search for the missing man will continue through the day on Wednesday. The Deschutes County Medical Examiner declined to comment as the investigation is ongoing. According to her obituary, Loyd was a realtor and real estate investor. Fluent in Spanish, shed traveled to five of the seven continents and had a fearless adventurous spirit. Although petite in frame, her powerhouse personality lit up every room she entered, loved ones continued. She brought immeasurable joy and laughter to her countless friends and followers. Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Oregon Facebook Search efforts have entered the fifth day. Search efforts have entered the fifth day. It was a love of travel that brought the group of friends together, Bashans parents, Vivian Bashan and Todd Bashan, told the Sentinel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple said that Lindsay had met the others in 2023, while traveling with other professionals through the organization, Remote Year. The larger cohort of 25 people traveled to 12 different countries together, which is how the six friends became close, the paper 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. This vacation was an adventure she was doing with her good friends, Vivian told the outlet. They were just going to do all these great outdoor things, hiking and going on the river. And at least they had the first day." Lindsay was set to start a new job in New York City next week, the paper reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was just a bright, friendly, thoughtful person, her mom told the Sentinel. And everyone that weve told what happened, all her friends are just saying how much they loved her and what an amazing friend she was. She was a good friend to all of them. Read the original article on People At first glance, the latest Boston Globe/Suffolk University poll is nothing but blue skies for Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. Consider these numbers alone: The Democratic incumbent holds a solid 59%-29% lead over her main challenger, philanthropist Josh Kraft, with just about a month to go before Septembers preliminary election. It was the third such poll to show Wu with a commanding lead. The Democratic incumbent held a 43%-29% lead in an Emerson College poll in February. And Wu led Kraft 53%-21% in an April canvass by Saint Anselm College. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voters gave Wu overwhelmingly high marks for her job performance in the new Suffolk poll, with nearly two-thirds of respondents (64.6%) saying they either strongly or somewhat approve of Wus job performance as she runs for another term in City Hall. And even if Wu isnt publicly saying anything, city voters clearly see their mayor with a national profile tipped for greater things, with 47% saying theyd vote for her if she ran for governor or U.S. Senate somewhere down the road. All those numbers are a problem for Kraft, a political newcomer whos never run for office before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The son of billionaire New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft is undoubtedly well-connected witness the deep-pocketed super PAC thats been blitzing the airwaves, your devices and Interstate 93 at rush hour, with anti-Wu attack advertisements. A pro-Wu super PAC also has been spending heavily on the Democratic incumbents behalf, according to a MassLive analysis of campaign filings. The politics of it all Still, that initial batch of poll numbers is a vivid reminder that the biggest challenge facing any candidate looking to bump off a popular incumbent is that they need to provide a compelling why. Thats particularly true in a city that hasnt sent an incumbent mayor packing since 1949. And that mayor had to be the notorious James Michael Curley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six months into his first campaign, and with the polls consistently favoring Wu, there are strong indications that Krafts message or his candidacy has yet to penetrate the voting publics consciousness. In a statement, Krafts camp shrugged off the polling, arguing that the numbers would move in his direction the more that voters get to know him. Josh didnt get into the mayors race because of what polling says, and nothing has changed his focus on continuing to show up in Boston neighborhoods, talk to residents and listen to the concerns of many people who are disappointed with this mayor and the direction the city is going, the campaign said, adding that the only numbers that count in the end are votes. That begs the question of what Kraft and his deep-pocketed allies have been doing since he jumped into the race on a cold day in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its also the middle of July, and voters traditionally are not the most plugged in at this time of the year. So theres that. The 3 big numbers to watch A deeper dive into the poll suggests that there is territory that can actively be contested if Kraft can effectively seize the moment and if a crack appears in Wus machine-like campaign. The first one is public education. There are few issues where voters feel as deeply passionate or are more opinionated about than their local schools. A clear majority of respondents (56%) gave a thumbs-down to the Boston Public Schools, compared to the 29% of those polled who rated them as excellent or good. Just 11% were undecided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Krafts education platform calls for opening up more seats in the citys competitive exam schools, a switch to a hybrid-elected and appointed school committee, and bringing back a parents office in City Hall. More than half of the respondents to the Suffolk poll (51.8%) said they favored that hybrid school committee model. And city voters overwhelmingly supported an elected panel in 2021. Then theres housing, perhaps the most vexing and pressing public policy challenge facing elected officials from Beacon Hill on down. More than a quarter of respondent (26%) said housing was their top issue this campaign season. Respondents said, 52% to 45%, that they find the city mostly affordable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even still, two-thirds of respondents said they favored some kind of rent control, while 28% apiece said the city should ease zoning rules and use public money to encourage housing construction. Wu and Kraft butted heads last week over the high price of housing in the city during a candidates forum hosted by the Massachusetts Affordable Homeownership Alliance, MassLive previously reported. The two candidates shared their respective visions and plans to reduce housing costs. Both candidates agreed that housing is too expensive in the city, but they disagreed on the most effective ways to tackle the problem. With ICE agents in the streets, the broader nationwide debate over immigration also remains an area of deep voter interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wu staked out her ground early on, making nationwide headlines in March with an impassioned defense of the citys policies before a U.S. House panel. Nearly 8 in 10 respondents said they support the citys decade-old Trust Act, which limits law enforcements cooperation with federal immigration authorities. And more than two-thirds of respondents (66%) said the citys police force generally do a good job and treat people of different races fairly, even if there are a few bad apples in the ranks. The two candidates have staked out similar ground, with Kraft saying he was onside with Wus approach. And thats made it harder for him to differentiate himself on a key issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that, in a high-stakes environment, Michelle Wu stood up for Boston and stood up to Trump-supporting members of Congress and did well is a huge advantage for her, Democratic consultant Mary Anne Marsh told MassLive earlier this year. The lightning round A batch of smaller questions in the poll also shines a pretty significant light on city voters mood this campaign season. And they all go back to that key argument for any challenger looking to unseat an incumbent: A compelling why. More than half of all respondents (52%) said they disagreed with the contention that Wu speaks well, but is not a good manager of day-to-day city services. And 60% said they agreed that while Wu has had her challenges, Kraft was not the answer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while the citys business communitys disenchantment with Wu is well documented, voters arent buying the arguments of a constituency they believe mostly lives outside the city limits: Nearly six in 10 (59%) said they didnt think Wu was hostile to the business community. The polls open at 7 a.m. on Sept. 9 for this years preliminary election. The meter is running for Kraft to make those closing arguments. Read more analysis from John L. Micek Read the original article on MassLive. An Ohio officer has died a day after a gunman opened fire on him and a fellow officer while they were eating lunch in their patrol vehicles, authorities said. Lorain Police Department officer Phillip Wagner, 35, was critically wounded in what police described as an "ambush attack." He died on Thursday in a hospital "despite the valiant efforts of fellow officers, first responders and medical professionals," the Lorain Police Department said. "Officer Wagner's life and service to our city will never be forgotten," acting Lorain Police Chief Michael Failing said in a statement. "Our department mourns the loss of a true hero and stands in unwavering support of Officer Wagner's family, friends, and fellow officers during this heartbreaking time." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wagner joined the Lorain Police Department in February 2022 and had previously served in the U.S. Marine Corps, police said. Lorain Police Department - PHOTO: From left, Lorain Police Department officers Peter Gale, Brent Payne and Philip Wagner. Two other Lorain Police Department officers were also injured in the shooting, which occurred at the dead end of an undeveloped industrial park in Lorain, located in northeast Ohio, police said. The gunman was killed in an ensuing exchange of gunfire, with the motive for the shooting not yet known, the Elyria Police Department said Thursday. The shooting unfolded around 1 p.m. Wednesday, after Wagner and fellow Lorain officer Peter Gale, 51, had picked up pizza for lunch and were parked side-by-side at the dead end, according to Failing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect had parked at the dead end and had an "arsenal of weapons with him," Failing said at a press briefing Wednesday. WEWS - PHOTO: Police respond to the scene where three officers were shot in Lorain, Ohio, July 23, 2025. In and around his vehicle were "multiple high-powered rifles, handguns, and a substantial quantity of loaded magazines," the Elyria Police Department, which is investigating the incident, said in a press release Thursday. A "significant quantity of improvised explosive materials" was also found in his vehicle and safely detonated away from the scene, police said. "He was laying in wait and opened fire with multiple rounds at both of the officers who were sitting in their vehicles," Failing said. A third Lorain officer who responded to a call for additional officers, 47-year-old Brent Payne, was then shot by the suspect multiple times in his patrol vehicle, Failing said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: NYPD officer killed, 2nd officer and suspect in critical condition after shooting Additional officers who responded to the scene helped treat their wounded fellow officers and drove them to an area hospital, according to Failing. Gale was shot in the hand and has since been treated and released, police said Thursday. Wagner and Payne both suffered multiple gunshot wounds and were airlifted to another hospital for treatment, Failing said. Payne had surgery Thursday morning and is recovering, police said. Elyria Police Department - PHOTO: Michael Parker is seen in a photo released by the Elyria Police Department. Officers returned fire on the suspect, who was armed with a "high-powered rifle," according to Elyria Police Chief James Welsh, who spoke at a separate briefing earlier Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect was shot and pronounced dead at the scene, Failing said. The Elyria Police Department identified him Thursday as 28-year-old Michael Parker of Lorain. Welsh said no other suspects have been located and they are "fairly confident" there was only one shooter. The area has been contained, he said. MORE: Shooting suspect ID'd in Santa Monica police officer 'ambush': Officials A motive for the shooting remains under investigation, Elyria police said Thursday. "This is a difficult day for the Lorain Police Department and the law enforcement community," Welsh said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It will take time to determine exactly what transpired here today," he said. WEWS - PHOTO: Police respond to the scene where three officers were shot in Lorain, Ohio, July 23, 2025. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said he has been briefed on the shooting, saying it "appears to have been a targeted attack on law enforcement." "This situation reminds us that those who work in law enforcement risk their lives every day for the safety of their communities," he said in a statement on social media. "We are so very grateful for the men and women who willingly and bravely serve and protect." Ohio Sen. Jon Husted said his office has offered assistance to local officials. "There is no place for this kind of violence in our state or country," he said in a statement on social media. LORAIN, Ohio (NewsNation) Three Lorain Police officers were shot and a suspect was killed Wednesday afternoon in what authorities called an ambush. NewsNation affiliate WJW in Cleveland reports two officers 35-year-old Phillip Wagner and 51-year-old Peter Gale were seriously injured and flown to a level one trauma center in Cleveland. Brent Payne, 47, was taken to a local hospital after being struck in the hand while trying to help. Wagner and Gale were parked side-by-side, having lunch before shots were fired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a difficult day for the Lorain Police Department and the law enforcement community, said. Elyria Police Chief James Welsh. We pray for the officers families. I want to extend my prayers and condolences to the Lorain Police Department and all the law enforcement officers that responded here today to assist in this investigation. Bryan Kohberger police reports reveal what roommates told cops Welsh told reporters a suspect ambushed the officers with a high-powered rifle. Officers returned fire, and the suspect died during the exchange, he said. Its unclear whether the suspect died by suicide or was killed by officers, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least one local school was placed on lockdown. U.S. Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, called the incident a tragic day in the city of Lorain. Were going to move forward, he said. We welcome all your prayers and all your support for the police officers and the citizens of Lorain. The incident marked the citys first major police shooting in 70 years, Lorains acting Police Chief Michael Failing 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 NewsNation. BEIRUT, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) on Wednesday announced a 12.5-million-euro (about 14.6 million U.S. dollars) initiative aimed at supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), according to a statement by the Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon. The project, carried out by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to support the army in post-conflict recovery, boosting security, and aiding reconstruction efforts in southern Lebanon "This initiative enhances the army's capacity and long-term resilience, directly contributing to Lebanon's safety and stability," LAF Commander General Rodolphe Haykal said during the launch ceremony. EU Ambassador Sandra De Waele reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to Lebanon, noting that the project demonstrates its steadfast dedication to peace and stability. "Alongside EU member states, we are delivering over 600 million dollars in aid to areas affected by conflict, reinforcing our push for full implementation of Resolution 1701 and compliance with the November 2024 ceasefire," she added. "Stability is the cornerstone of lasting peace, recovery, and inclusive development," UNDP Resident Representative Blerta Aliko said. This EU-backed initiative is a response to the prolonged impact of the 13-month conflict, which continues to result in casualties and damage vital infrastructure and services across the country. The project is designed to support the LAF's efforts to assist local communities in southern Lebanon by removing rubble and unexploded ordnance, restoring essential services like water and health facilities, and fostering stronger collaboration with residents. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Three Portland fried chicken spots have been praised by some of the restaurant industrys most active reviewers. Earlier this month, Yelp uncovered its Elite squads list of the best fried chicken served throughout the U.S. and Canada. Yelp Elites are active users of the business-reviewing platform, and are considered to be their communitys top writers, photographers, and local experts. There are seasons in life: KOIN 6 anchor Jeff Gianola to step away Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of the 50 restaurants recognized in the new roundup, Screen Doors Eastside location was the highest-ranking Portland business at No. 9. Screen Door is a local favorite celebrated for its mouthwatering Southern comfort food and lively, welcoming atmosphere, Yelp said of the restaurant with 8904 reviews and an average 4.5-star rating. Known for signature dishes like crispy fried chicken, decadent brunch plates, and classic sides, Screen Door draws locals and visitors eager for a true taste of the South. Over on 3808 N Williams Ave., Eem was ranked at No. 16. The Thai barbecue spot was a finalist for the James Beard Awards Best New Restaurant in 2020, and has since earned a Yelp rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 1500 diners. Eems sweet and sour fried chicken is among its most popular menu items. Portlands Jojo was deemed as the regions 31st-best fried chicken spot. Although the small local chain has two locations, its Southeast Powell Boulevard food cart was recognized for its seriously crave-worthy fried chicken sandwiches, hand-cut fries, and comforting sides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jojo also has an average 4.5-star rating, and 374 reviews and counting. Adults-only pinball space and social club is Vancouvers latest addition In Washington, Seattles Aroy Mak Thai Food and Filipino-inspired The Chicken Supply were placed at No. 14 and No. 44, respectively. But Elite users ranked Howlin Rays in Los Angeles as the best fried chicken spot overall. Monells Dining & Catering in Nashville, Tenn., Taniokas Seafoods & Catering in Waipahu, Hawaii, Ekiben in Baltimore and Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room in Savannah, Ga. rounded out the top five. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOPEKA (KSNT) Police have released the identity of a recent homicide victim in Topeka after a man died at a local hospital on Monday. Police report the citys 11th homicide victim of the year is 33-year-old Gerald Avery of Topeka. Law enforcement is continuing to investigate his death. Previous reporting The Topeka Police Department (TPD) responded to a reported shooting in the 4500 block of Southwest Topeka Boulevard around 2:15 a.m. on July 21. Police arriving at the scene found a man suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. First responders took the man to a local hospital where he later died. The TPD said another man also arrived at a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Photos by Savannah Meier. Photos by Savannah Meier. Photos by Savannah Meier. Photos by Savannah Meier. This is a tragedy: Two found dead in Kansas home after child abducted Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have information to share with police regarding this investigation, call 785-368-9400 or send an email to telltpd@topeka.org. You can send in anonymous tips to law enforcement by contacting Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or by clicking here. For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) Gov. Dan McKee is gearing up for the 36th Annual Governors Bay Day celebration. McKee signed an executive order on Wednesday declaring that the celebration will take place on Sunday, July 27. Perks of the event include free parking at all state beaches and free round-trip bus service. The public can also take advantage of free saltwater fishing throughout the whole weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres nothing like summer in Rhode Island, and I think were all ready to enjoy our beautiful waters, sandy beaches and abundant fisheries, McKee said. This Bay Day, I invite Rhode Islanders to head to the beach, drop a fishing line in Narragansett Bay, and experience all of the natural resources the Ocean State has to offer. Ocean, Bay & Beach // A look at the conditions at the coast The first-ever Bay Day was held in 1989 to remind Rhode Islanders of the fragility of Narragansett Bay and coastal waters. Bay Day also commemorates the aftermath of the grounding of the tanker World Prodigy at Brenton Point, during which approximately 300,000 gallons of oil were released into the water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALSO READ: Block Island, Bristol voted as top 2 harbors in the US Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Ocean, Bay & Beach 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 WPRI.com. FORT STEWART, Ga. (WSAV) The 3rd Division Artillery and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade will be deployed in Europe to replace other United States forces, the Department of the Army announced Monday. The 3rd Division Artillery and 3rd Combat Brigade are both part of the 3rd Infantry Division, located at Fort Stweart. They will replace the 1st Division Artillery and 1st Armored Division. The replacement is part of a regular rotation of forces to support the United States commitment to NATO allies and partners, The Department of the Army said. Advertisement 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 WSAV-TV. It sounds like the plot of an action-thriller, but for one Atlanta tech entrepreneur, an elaborate cryptocurrency theft involving North Korean assets became his reality. It felt like I was in a movie, Marlon Williams told Channel 2 News (WSB-TV). Thats where we see these things, right? Rather than a phishing scam with criminals pretending to be a bank or government agency and requiring payment in cryptocurrency to solve an urgent issue, this was a long con orchestrated over two years. Don't miss Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams thought he had hired remote IT workers for his Atlanta-based blockchain research and development company, Starter Labs. Instead, the workers were North Korean nationals using stolen identities, according to the FBI. After gaining his trust, they were able to infiltrate the business, eventually making off with just over $1 million in cryptocurrency. The unfolding of a long con Four men Kim Kwang Jin, Kang Tae Bok, Jong Pong Ju and Chang Nam Il have been indicted on charges of wire fraud and money laundering, according to a now unsealed federal criminal indictment. This is part of a larger investigation by the FBI and U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) into North Koreas so-called remote IT worker program in which skilled North Korean agents infiltrate American companies using a mix of stolen and fake identities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using the stolen identities of at least 80 Americans, North Korean agents have been able to find remote work at more than 100 American companies and then steal and launder virtual currency, according to the DOJ. This money is used to generate revenue for the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK), including its weapons program. Williams was one of those targets. He hired one of the men who reached out through the Telegram app via a fake identity to work on a project. Williams was impressed with his work, telling Channel 2 News he was super-duper talented. So Williams hired him for more projects, eventually promoting him to the role of chief technology officer and allowing him to hire additional staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The con took place over about two years during which time he gained Williams trust. He had the power to create malicious code that he installed and that allowed him to withdraw the funds completely, Williams said. The threat posed by DPRK operatives is both real and immediate. Thousands of North Korean cyber operatives have been trained and deployed by the regime to blend into the global digital workforce and systematically target U.S. companies, U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah B. Foley said in a statement. The investigation into North Korean criminal activity has so far resulted in an arrest, two indictments, searches of 29 laptop farms across 16 states and the seizure of 29 financial accounts used to launder illicit funds and 21 fraudulent websites, according to the DOJ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four North Koreans are now wanted by the FBI, but theyre not in the U.S. They were allegedly working out of the United Arab Emirates with North Korean travel documents. As for their victims? Its incredibly difficult to recover virtual currency and theres usually no insurance for lost or stolen cryptocurrencies. Read more: Americans are revenge saving to survive but millions only get a measly 1% on their savings. Heres how to quickly earn 280% more on your cash How to protect yourself from crypto risks When it comes to cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, industry regulations are still being developed. Since crypto doesnt require an intermediary (like a bank), it can also be used by criminals to hide their activities. While we could see the passage of the GENIUS Act in the second half of 2025 designed to regulate the digital currency industry some critics say it will make the financial system less stable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As an asset class, its considered to be volatile since its value is often based on market sentiment. For investors, that means it can offer big rewards, but it can also result in big losses. Many financial advisors consider it a discretionary investment meaning dont invest what you cant afford to lose. Cryptocurrencies arent like stocks or even cold, hard cash, for that matter. The money in your bank account is regulated and insured, but theres no enforceable regulations or insurance for lost or stolen cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency held in accounts is not insured by a government like U.S. dollars deposited into an FDIC insured bank account. If something happens to your account or cryptocurrency funds for example, the company that provides storage for your wallet goes out of business or is hacked the government has no obligation to step in and help get your money back, warns the Federal Trade Commission. For individuals, staying safe means keeping your wallet keys private. Ignore cold calls about crypto investment opportunities and any too good to be true offers. If youre experiencing high-pressure tactics, keep in mind that fraudsters often use a sense of urgency as part of their scam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For businesses, FBI Atlanta suggests using additional layers of scrutiny in the hiring process for remote IT workers. Specifically, the FBI recommends using identity-verification processes during interviewing, onboarding and throughout the employment of any remote worker, as well as cross-checking HR systems for other applicants with the same resume content. In addition, complete as much of the hiring and onboarding process as possible in person. Thats something Williams is considering. Going back to the fundamentals of business, meeting you face-to-face and looking in your eye, shaking your hand, that really matters," he told Channel 2 News, "even in these new industries that are developing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you suspect youre the victim of a similar scam, report the activity to the FBIs Internet Crime Complaint Center. What to read next Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Hillsborough County needs to spend money upgrading its aging drainage system and do a better job communicating with the public and other governments when tropical storms threaten the region, an outside analysis has concluded. The county hired Black & Veatch, an independent engineering firm, to investigate its stormwater systems after last years hurricane season caused extreme flooding around the region. With input from more than 200 residents, Black & Veatch drafted recommendations for county leaders in a report totaling more than 1,000 pages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some of the reports key takeaways and steps the county is taking to improve its stormwater resilience. Increased stormwater maintenance About half of Hillsborough County has infrastructure that was built prior to the county adopting stormwater regulations in 1982, according to Black & Veatchs report, and pump stations are nearing the end of their design lives. Residents in areas not in flood zones, like Forest Hills in northwest Tampa, flooded during Hurricane Milton after city and county infrastructure failed to drain their streets. The city has acknowledged its role in the flooding, but has said there are no systems that can handle the level of rainfall Tampa Bay received last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typical annual rainfall in the region is around 51 inches, and last years rainfall was 80 inches. During one 24-hour period last year, portions of Hillsborough received 21-23% of the total annual rainfall, the report found. Jon Dinges, who presented Black & Veatchs report, said it is unrealistic to expect a stormwater management system that could handle the amount of rain the region received in such a short period. Economically, you cant afford to build systems to handle that, Dinges said. There are a number of projects that need to be completed across the county, including 132 stormwater drainage improvements and 470 culvert pipe repair and replacement projects, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From Oct. 1 to June 30, the county has cleaned 81 miles of pipes, 165 miles of ditches, removed more than 900 trees and completed more than 600 inspections of maintenance and flooding concerns. Hillsborough County is 1,051 square miles, with a 76-mile coastline. More stormwater funding The report found that Hillsborough Countys doesnt have enough money set aside to adequately address all of its needs. Investing in drainage upgrades could save about $120 million in flood damages. The report noted that Hillsboroughs stormwater fees are among the lowest 25% of local governments in the state. In the countys recommended fiscal year 2026 budget, $75 million is allotted for stormwater work, which falls under the $3.3 billion capital budget. An additional $10 million is going toward stormwater-related projects. Improved collaboration Multiple agencies in the region are involved in managing stormwater infrastructure: Tampa, Plant City, Temple Terrace, Hillsborough County, the Florida Department of Transportation and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hillsborough County commissioners on Wednesday discussed the challenges of coordinating efforts with so many entities and are seeking guidance on the best practices to do so. In October, Commissioner Christine Miller led a discussion on possibly establishing a water task force. The proposal, which includes reaching out to the regions water management district, passed unanimously. Miller said on Wednesday that, despite all of the information provided, she was unclear on what steps the county is taking to move forward and wants to ensure commissioners effectively preparing for future storm seasons. We cant just kick this can down the road anymore, Miller said. We have to have a task force. We have to come to the people with some solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy County Administrator Greg Horwedel said the county is intending to bring forward a plan on coordinating efforts, but wanted to wait until the Black & Veatch report was presented. Better public engagement There is a general contradiction between residents and the countys perspectives, the report found. For example, residents think ditches are not adequately cleared of debris and vegetation, whereas county inspections found ditches are in good working condition. And, a number of residents who do not live in designated flood zones nor have flood insurance may live in areas county considers vulnerable to flooding. To improve community engagement, the county is expanding flood risk notifications, coordinating with outside agencies to keep residents informed and coordinating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency on flood map updates. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Sentences for five Las Vegas men prosecuted in the largest internet piracy case ever to go to trial were announced Tuesday in the notorious Jetflicks case, a Las Vegas-based streaming service that made millions from stolen copyrighted TV programs. Kristopher Lee Dallmann, 42, received the stiffest sentence: seven years in federal prison. The U.S. Justice Department said in a news release that Dallmann reaped millions in profit from the operation. A conservative estimate placed the value of the copyright infringement in the case at $37.5 million. Dallman was convicted of conspiracy to commit copyright infringement, criminal copyright infringement by distribution, criminal copyright infringement by public performance and money laundering. Jetflicks was an online subscription-based service with headquarters in Las Vegas. It let subscribers stream and sometimes download copyrighted programs. The volume of content was enormous. At one point, Jetflicks claimed to have 183,285 different television episodes, significantly more than Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime, or any other licensed streaming service, according to the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other sentences announced on charges of conspiracy to commit copyright infringement: Peter H. Huber, 67, sentenced to 18 months in prison; Jared Edward Jaurequi, also known as Jared Edwards, 44, sentenced to time served (almost five months in prison); Felipe Garcia, 43, sentenced to three years probation with 49 days in prison and 1,000 hours of community service; and Douglas M. Courson, 65, sentenced to three years probation with 48 days in prison. The sentences were issued May 29-30, according to the news release. They were convicted in June 2024 in Las Vegas. It is the biggest piracy case as measured by the estimated total infringement amount and total number of infringements. It was also the first illegal streaming case ever to go to trial, officials said. Digital crimes are not victimless crimes, U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada said. The copyright owners lost millions of dollars as a result of the illegal paid streaming service. These sentences underscore our joint commitment with the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and FBI to deter and disrupt intellectual property crime via thorough investigation and prosecution of those who violate federal intellectual property laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dating back as far as 2007, the defendants used software and computer scripts that ran constantly to scour sites around the world hosting pirated content, downloading, processing and storing illegal content. Jetflicks then made it immediately available on servers in the United States and Canada. Tens of thousands of paid subscribers participated. Jetflix often delivered episodes to subscribers the day after the shows originally aired. The five defendants sentenced were among eight defendants originally indicted in Virginia. Defendant Darryl Polo previously pleaded guilty to four counts of criminal copyright infringement and one count of money laundering for his involvement with Jetflicks and another service called iStreamItAll. Defendant Luis Villarino also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. In May 2021, a judge sentenced Polo and Villarino to, respectively, 57 months in prison and 12 months and a day in prison. After the case was transferred to Nevada for trial, defendant Yoany Vaillant was tried separately from the other five remaining defendants. In November 2024, after an eight-day trial, a federal jury convicted Vaillant of conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. Vaillant is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Oliva and Edward G. Veronda prosecuted the Nevada case along with senior counsel Matthew A. Lamberti, trial attorney Michael Christin, and Acting Deputy Chief Christopher S. Merriam of the Criminal Divisions Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. With both the halfway point of 2025 and the six-month mark since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House behind us, we thought we would review the big stories that have shaped global developments so far this year. Weve identified five overarching themes that are driving global affairs in 2025: U.S.-China relations, Trumps trade wars, global conflict, the race for critical minerals, and the accelerating technology revolution. 1. U.S.-China Relations: Trumps Intentions Toward China Remain Unclear It has now become a bipartisan consensus in Washington that strategic competition with China represents the single greatest challenge the U.S. faces today. That explains why there was so much continuity between the policies Trump adopted in his first term and those of former President Joe Biden. Advertisement 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. The major difference was that Biden coupled his efforts to counter Chinas trade practices and limit its access to next-generation technologies with attempts to build a like-minded coalition of U.S. allies and partners to back up those measures. By contrast, since his return to office, Trump has adopted an even more confrontational approach to trade with China, while simultaneously alienating Washingtons allies and partners when it comes to both trade and security ties. Nevertheless, whether Trumps end goal is to definitively decouple the U.S. and Chinese economies or find some modus vivendi for the two powers to co-exist remains unclear, in part reflecting the deep divisions on the issue within his administration and closest circle of advisers. Go Deeper: 2. Trumps Trade Wars: How They Are Being Felt Across the World A U.S. flag is seen on the container ship President Eisenhower in a seaport, in Qingdao, China, Dec. 23, 2021 (FeatureChina photo via AP Images). Ever since his emergence as a public figure in the 1980s, Trump has been fixated on U.S. trade deficits, and they were a central feature of his political rise prior to the 2016 presidential election. During his subsequent first term as president, he unveiled his heterodox approach to tackling those deficits: tariffs. Reversing decades of U.S. trade policy, which since the end of World War II had lowered U.S. tariff rates while ushering in a liberalized global trade regime, Trump famously declared that trade wars are easy to win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Against the advice of trade policy experts and economists, Trump slapped tariffs on both rivals and allies alike, with the main target of his ire being China. In fairness, Chinas unfair trade practices had long been an irritant to policymakers in Washington. And the so-called China Shock of the first 15 years of the 21st century following Chinas entry into the global trade regime resulted in job losses and economic disruption across the West. But cheap and subsidized Chinese products were not the only cause of Western de-industrialization, and in most cases not the primary one. And while global trade and financial imbalances are real problems, tariffs do little to remedy the factors that fuel both, namely U.S. over-indebtedness and overconsumption on one hand, and Chinese overcapacity and underconsumption on the other. Nevertheless, the political salience of the issue and Trumps ability to reshape the Republican base in his image proved to have a lasting impact in Washington. As with China policy, the trade policies of former President Joe Biden represented more continuity than change when he succeeded Trump in 2021. Biden was slow to remove tariffs on European steel and aluminum, and left many tariffs on China in place, while also embracing industrial policy in the form of investment subsidies in next-generation and green technologies. Most notably, any new trade deals were kept off the table. During last years presidential election campaign, Trump not only continued to embrace tariffs as a panacea to U.S. trade deficits and de-industrialization, he doubled down on them, pointing to the high-tariff era of 19th-century President William McKinley as his model. And despite expectations that he would temper his approach once in office, he has instead followed through on his plans, announcing across-the-board tariffs of 20 percent to 40 percent in April, and even higher rates targeting China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, after markets responded by going into a freefall, with long-term rates on U.S. Treasury bonds causing particular alarm, Trump agreed to suspend those tariffs for 90 days in order to negotiate deals. And with that deadline approaching and only a handful of framework agreements to show for it, Trump extended it to Aug. 1, only to pre-empt that date by posting open letters announcing unilateral tariff increases on a range of countries over the past week. The result has been a level of uncertainty that usually wreaks havoc on trade, investment and stock markets. For now, that has yet to be the case, but that could soon change, depending on whether Trump ends up holding the line on his cherished tariffs or definitively renouncing them. And as our coverage highlighted below demonstrates, the volatility in U.S. trade policy is already being felt among U.S. trading partners across the world. Go Deeper: 3. Rising Interstate War: The Previously Unthinkable Is Possible Russian soldiers hold a Russian flag near a Ukrainian military base in Crimea, in Perevalne, Ukraine, March 15, 2014 (AP photo by Vadim Ghirda). When Russia annexed Crimea and supplied military aid to proxy separatist forces in eastern Ukraine in 2014, many observers sounded the alarm. Though the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 had already eroded the norm against interstate war without a United Nations Security Council mandate, Russias moves breached perhaps an even more fundamental pillar of the postwar order: the prohibition against the use of force for territorial conquest. Many feared that if that pillar were allowed to fall, it would incentivize other states to follow suit, with particular concern regarding a potential Chinese invasion to achieve unification with Taiwan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those fears appeared to be unfounded in the years immediately thereafter. But they returned to relevance in 2020, when Azerbaijan launched a brief war to retake control over most of the ethnic Armenian breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which had exercised de facto autonomy with Armenias military support since the breakup of the Soviet Union. And, of course, they seemed all too prescient in February 2022, when Russia mounted an all-out invasion of Ukraine in an effort to install a puppet government in Kyiv. Failing that, Moscow expanded its territorial grip over large swathes of eastern Ukraine, which it subsequently claimed to annex. That war continues today, with momentum swinging back and forth between the two sides, even if the front lines have moved very little since the conflicts opening months. Russias invasion of Ukraine was in turn followed by Azerbaijans final assault on Nagorno-Karabakh and Hamas attack on Israel in late 2023, the latter of which prompted Israels invasion of Gaza and its subsequent conflict with Hezbollah as well as several exchanges of missile and drone attacks with Iran the following year. Since January, this trend toward interstate war has continuedand expanded. In May, India and Pakistan traded missile and drone strikes following a terrorist attack against Indian civilians in Indian-controlled Kashmir, with fears that the two nuclear-armed states might not manage to pull away from the brink. And in June, Israel targeted Irans nuclear program with a campaign of airstrikes that the U.S. briefly joined, to which Iran responded by launching multiple missile barrages against Israel and one telegraphed strike against a U.S. military base in Qatar. While for now efforts to keep those conflicts from escalating have succeeded, there is no guarantee that restraint will continue to be the order of the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, civil wars and conflicts between states and nonstate actors continued apace throughout the post-Cold War period. But the past three years marked the return of something that had become almost unthinkable just over a decade ago: interstate war. And while there remains disagreement on whether there are structural factors at play that explain that return, it no longer seems possible to deny that we have entered a historical period in which the barriers to war between states, or at the very least to major skirmishes between them, have been lowered. Go Deeper: 4. The Race for Critical Minerals: A Solution and a Problem Cranes offload bauxite from a ship, in Yantai, China, April 24, 2025 (FeatureChina photo via AP Images). Over the past few years, as the push to decarbonize industrial economies has gathered momentum, attention has increasingly focused on the critical minerals required to build electric vehicle batteries, wind energy turbines and other technologies on which green energy depends. Those same minerals are also key components in some of the next-generation tech driving AI applications and sophisticated weaponry, used in everything from smart phones and hard drives to missile guidance systems and radar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and rare earth metals have become central prizes in the strategic competition between the U.S. and China, in what has been characterized as a contest to see who will win the future. As with all aspects of that competition, the race for critical minerals represents an opportunity for resource-rich countries, which have sought to leverage their reserves of these crucial inputs to win better terms for investment in their mining sectors, but also in the rail and port infrastructure needed to export minerals once they have been mined. Beyond economic partnerships, critical minerals have also begun to play a role in shaping the security calculus of the great powers. Ukraine used a deal guaranteeing U.S. mining companies access to its minerals sector as part of its efforts to convince U.S. President Donald Trump to provide it with military support in its war against Russia. And the Democratic Republic of Congos mineral reserves are a key reason why the Trump administration has taken on the role of mediator in an effort to end the fighting in eastern Congo, where most of those reserves are located. But as always with the mining sector, those opportunities can also be a double-edged sword. With China currently dominating the supply chains for most of these minerals, the competition over them could trigger a race to the bottom, in which environmental standards and other protections for local communities are given short shrift. Without robust governance and oversight, the revenues from mining contracts can fuel corruption, rather than economic development. And the dangers of the resource curse as well as the vulnerabilities created by the inevitable commodities cycle mean that todays windfalls may end up fueling tomorrows economic instability. Finally, without investment and technology transfers to locate more of the processing and refinement phases of production in mineral-rich countries, the race for critical minerals risks reinforcing the established inequities of the global economy, at a time when the U.S. commitment under Trump to both aid and trade are waning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without attention to all of these issues, critical minerals may end up being part of the answer when it comes to the green transition, but part of the problem when it comes to the lingering legacy of the historical processes that helped create the climate crisis. Go Deeper: 5. Next-Gen Technology and AI: Opportunity and Uncertainty A student demonstrates brain-painting through emerging brain-computer interface technology at the Neuro-Machine Interaction Lab at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Fla., June 15, 2022 (photo by Angelica Edwards for Tampa Bay Times via AP). The past 20 years have seen a technological revolution that has transformed the way most of the planet lives, from the widespread diffusion of internet connectivity and mobile phones to the introduction of smartphones and the apps that power them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past few years, that technological revolution seems to have entered a new accelerated phase with the introduction of chatbots powered by artificial intelligence and based on large language models, or LLMs. From being a novelty sensation when they were first released, these AI-powered applications have now become a feature of the landscape, with significant implications for everything from the future of work to education and scholarship. The potential benefits include increasing productivity by speeding up things like data gathering, textual synthesis, code programming and written composition. The dangers range from the errors and inventions that chatbots include in their outputan inherent and unsolvable bugto the potential for mass obsolescence of white-collar workers, similar to the impact of automation on industrial manufacturing jobs. But while LLM chatbots have now become synonymous with AI in the popular discourse, they are just one application of AI. In fact, AI is also in the process of revolutionizing specialty areas like imagery recognition, with applications in medicine and surveillance, as well as predictive fields, like weather and markets. Again, the implications range from the miraculous, such as previously fatal medical conditions spotted early enough to be treated, to the nefarious, such as facial recognition systems that recreate social biases based on race and ethnicity. More broadly, the AI revolution is taking place in a context of heightened geopolitical rivalry, particularly between the U.S. and China. As a result, is it not only shaping that rivalry, in terms of the new technologies being an object of competition, but also increasingly shaped by it, with the realistic prospect of a bifurcated world comprising separate and competing technological spheres of influence on the horizon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a sharp contrast with the first phases of todays revolution in information and communications technology, which unfolded in the golden age of globalization, when the world seemed to be moving inexorably toward increasing interconnectedness and convergence. As a result, the opportunities offered by this latest phase of that same revolution are often dampened by an edge of anxiety for the future. Go Deeper: To get read more from World Politics Review, sign up for our free newsletter. The post The 5 Most Important Global Trends of 2025 So Far appeared first on World Politics Review. HEBER CITY, Utah (ABC4) All five suspects believed to have been involved in the double stabbing that took place at a Heber City quinceanera on Sunday, July 20, have been safely taken into custody. Jose Manuel Gervacio, who was identified as the fourth suspect, voluntarily surrendered to police and was taken into custody by Heber City police officers on Tuesday night after a three-day search. The Heber City Police Department said Gervacio was wanted on charges of attempted murder, aggravated burglary, and aggravated assault. The fifth suspect was identified as Justin Joel Ortiz, 26, by an anonymous tip after the police department released the suspects photos. On Tuesday night, Ortiz reportedly turned himself in after walking into the Wasatch County Sheriffs Office and requesting to speak with law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ortiz was booked without incident into the Wasatch County Jail, where he similarly faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, assault, obstruction of justice, and criminal trespass. Earlier in the week, police had arrested David Gervacio, 22, Cristian Gervacio, 18, and Johnny Gervacio, 28, in connection with the stabbing. Police say together the five men acted in concert to commit a violent group assault that resulted in two victims being stabbed during a private quinceanera at a Heber City restaurant. Police say the five suspects disrupted the party and targeted one victim, who suffered a stab wound to his abdomen. A second victim was allegedly stabbed in the leg as the five suspects were fleeing the scene. The second victim received medical treatment and was released by medical personnel on the scene. The first victim was taken to a local area hospital before he was airlifted to a hospital in Salt Lake City in critical condition for further care. His condition as of Wednesday, July 23, is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Akbar Novruz Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov, received outgoing Israeli Ambassador George Deek, highlighting the strong and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries. During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the level of bilateral relations, emphasizing the successful collaboration across political, economic, trade, energy, investment, and humanitarian spheres. The potential for further development in these areas was also noted. Minister Bayramov addressed the tense situation in the Middle East, underlining Azerbaijans concern and its consistent support for efforts aimed at establishing peace and stability in the region. He affirmed Azerbaijans readiness to contribute constructively to the peace process. Ambassador Deek, who is concluding his six-year term in Azerbaijan, expressed gratitude for the support extended to him during his tenure. He noted that he would always carry warm memories of his service in Azerbaijan. DAMASCUS, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A humanitarian aid convoy operated by the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) entered the southern city of Sweida, the namesake provincial capital, on Wednesday, delivering essential supplies to civilians affected by recent violence, according to state news agency SANA. The convoy crossed into Sweida through the humanitarian corridor at Busra al-Sham in the eastern countryside of Daraa province, according to the report. The shipment included 66 tonnes of flour, 4,000 food baskets, 10,000 bottles of drinking water, and fuel tankers intended to support displaced families and areas suffering shortages due to the recent clashes between Druze fighters and Bedouin tribesmen. It marks the second aid delivery to reach Sweida in recent days as humanitarian organizations step up efforts to address the growing needs of communities uprooted by the violence. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard spoke to reporters at the White House on Wednesday on the heels of the latest document drop alleging Obama administration officials misled the public about intelligence surrounding Russian interference in the 2016 election. Gabbard made a rare appearance in the briefing room, a sign the White House is seeking to keep a spotlight on the claims her office has levied about former President Obama and some of his intelligence officials. Here are five takeaways from the briefing. House report offers fresh fodder Gabbards appearance coincided with her offices release of a previously classified report from the House Intelligence Committee that was first drafted in 2017 and published in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard said one key finding was that Russian President Vladimir Putins principal interests around the 2016 election were to undermine faith in the U.S. democratic process, not show preference of a certain candidate. In fact, this report shows Putin held back leaking compromising material on Hillary Clinton prior to the election, instead planning to release it after the election to weaken what Moscow viewed as an inevitable Clinton presidency, Gabbard said. The House report determined the CIA did not adhere to the tenets of analytic standards and said the conclusion that Putin took actions to benefit Trump was based on one scant, unclear, and unverifiable fragment of a sentence from one of the substandard reports. Gabbard argued the report was particularly damning for Obama, former CIA Director John Brennan, former FBI Director James Comey and former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But critics quickly panned the report as out of step with intelligence community findings and the findings of a bipartisan report from the Senate Intelligence Committee released in 2020, which both established that Russia attempted to interfere in the 2016 election and preferred President Trump win. Nothing in this partisan, previously scuttled document changes that. Releasing this so-called report is just another reckless act by a Director of National Intelligence so desperate to please Donald Trump that she is willing to risk classified sources, betray our allies, and politicize the very intelligence she has been entrusted to protect, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said in a statement. Gabbard suggests Obama implicated Obamas name was uttered nearly a dozen times at Wednesdays briefing as Gabbard and other officials have suggested the 44th president was directly involved in efforts to mislead the public. We have referred and will continue to refer all of these documents to the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate the criminal implications of this, Gabbard said when asked if any of the information released Wednesday implicates Obama in criminal behavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The evidence that we have found and that we have released directly points to President Obama leading the manufacturing of this intelligence assessment. There are multiple pieces of evidence and intelligence that confirm that fact, Gabbard added. Trump had a day earlier accused Obama of treason, prompting a rare public rebuke from the former presidents office. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chair Marco Rubio, who now serves as Trumps secretary of State. Officials sidestep questions about consequences Gabbard and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt repeatedly dodged when pressed on what crime Obama could be charged with or whether he should go to jail for something he did related to the handling of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im leaving the criminal charges to the DOJ. Im not an attorney, Gabbard said when asked if Obama is guilty of treason, despite previously claiming his administrations actions amounted to a treasonous conspiracy. She also deflected to the Justice Department when asked what Obama could be charged with, given the statute of limitations on conspiracy would have expired. Leavitt repeatedly called for accountability for those who committed wrongdoing. NBC News correspondent Kelly ODonnell asked what that would mean, given a previous special counsel, John Durham, did not charge Obama or his top aides when he could have, and the Supreme Court has ruled presidents have broad immunity for acts while in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has made it clear that he wanted these documents to be declassified. He wanted the American people to see the truth, and now he wants those who perpetuated these lies and this scandal to be held accountable, Leavitt said. As for what accountability looks like its in the Department of Justices hands, and we trust them to move this ball forward, Leavitt said. White House addresses questions about Rubio, Gabbard Skeptics of the Trump administrations allegations about the Russia documents have noted that Rubio, a staunch Trump ally, was among the members of the Senate Intelligence Committee when it issued its bipartisan report in 2020. Democrats and other critics have pointed to Rubios support for those conclusions to question the administrations new allegations and why he would not have raised them previously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leavitt largely sidestepped the question. She noted Rubio issued a statement in 2020 describing Russias attempts to meddle in the election and actions taken by the FBI as troubling. CNNs Kaitlan Collins also asked whether Gabbards release of multiple reports about Russian interference, a long-standing fixation for Trump, was meant as a way to get back in his good graces after he publicly criticized her last month. The only people who are suggesting that the director of national intelligence would release evidence to try to boost her standing with the president are the people in this room who constantly try to sow distrust and chaos among the presidents Cabinet. And its not working, Leavitt said. Trump has the utmost confidence in Director Gabbard, he always has, he continues to, Leavitt added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump had previously publicly criticized Gabbard and said he disagreed with her assessments about Irans pursuit of a nuclear weapon in June as he mulled strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Questions about politicization and weaponization Gabbard has spoken frequently about her efforts to eliminate politicization from the intelligence community in her role as director of national intelligence, and Trump administration officials have repeatedly argued the government was weaponized against the president in his various criminal cases. But the intelligence director faced multiple questions Wednesday about whether she was merely adding to the politicization by making grave allegations of wrongdoing against Obama officials, and about whether the documents released by her office conflated different issues. I think thats a very disrespectful attack on the American people, who deserve the truth, Gabbard said, brushing off a question about whether a referral of the former president was a potential race to the bottom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard similarly attacked Obama in response to a question about whether she was conflating allegations that Russia actually hacked the election or changed results with allegations of Russian attempts to meddle and sow distrust. I think its a disservice to the American people that former President Obamas office and others who are criticizing the transparency that is being delivered by releasing these documents, Gabbard said. They are doing a disservice to the American people in trying to deflect away from their culpability in what is a historic scandal. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Trump administration said Wednesday it would investigate five universities over scholarship programs for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. The Education Department probe involves the University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. It comes after the Legal Insurrection Foundations Equal Protection Project submitted complaints to the departments Office for Civil Rights (OCR), according to a press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said the scholarships aimed to deny our fellow citizens the opportunity to compete for scholarships because they were born in the United States. As we mark President Trumps historic six months back in the White House, we are expanding our enforcement efforts to protect American students and lawful residents from invidious national origin discrimination of the kind alleged here, Trainor said in a Wednesday statement. William A. Jacobson, founder of the Equal Protection Project, said it was gratified to see the Education Department follow up on its complaint. Protecting equal access to education includes protecting the rights of American-born students, he said. Discrimination against American-born students must not be tolerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DACA immigration policy ushered in under the Obama administration permits children who entered the country illegally with their parents prior to June 15, 2012, to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation. The Wednesday release from the Education Department said it will not only investigate scholarships for DACA recipients but also financial support offered to students based on race and sexual orientation. It marks the latest fight between the Trump administration and universities. Earlier this year, the Education Departments Office for Civil Rights revoked federal funds from Columbia University and Harvard University over an alleged antisemitic culture on their campuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the federal actions, the University of Michigan and other Big Ten schools created a mutual defense compact to fight against Trumps threats to cut federal funding. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. James Sexton pauses in what's left of his house in the Sunset Hills neighborhood of London, May 18, 2025. A tornado struck the area just after midnight the day before. (Photo by Michael Swensen/Getty Images) Communities hit by tornadoes in May and flooding in April will have access to around $56 million total in federal funding to repair damaged infrastructure and help with debris removal costs. President Donald Trumps approval this week of public assistance funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency will open up grants to state and local governments and some nonprofits dealing with the aftermath of May storms, including a tornado that tore through Pulaski and Laurel counties in May. The grants will also help with recovery from widespread flooding that inundated Kentucky communities in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those grants through FEMAs public assistance program can go toward repairing public buildings, bridges, roads, drinking water and wastewater infrastructure along with measures to fortify infrastructure in the future. Nearly $29 million in funding is being allocated for repairs from the April storms and flooding, while $27.1 million is being allocated for repairs from May storms and tornadoes. A release Wednesday from the office of Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says the governor spoke with Trump over the phone and told the president how well the FEMA teams were conducting operations in Kentucky. Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, and Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, in a joint statement praised Trump for approving aid for hard-hit counties by May storms. This news is a blessing and a critical step forward as we continue recovery efforts from the devastating tornado earlier this year, the two Republican state senators said. Our communities are strong, and with this support, we will recover and rebuild. Trump previously approved direct federal aid for individuals in six counties hit by May tornadoes, storms and straight-line winds. Nineteen people died as a result of those storms. Jul. 22A 59-year-old woman who died at Miami Valley Hospital following a shooting has been identified. Pamela Trimble was pronounced dead shortly after midnight Tuesday, according to Montgomery County Coroner Dr. Kent Harshbarger. Around 11:30 p.m., a woman arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound, said Dayton police Lt. Eric Sheldon. She was later identified as Trimble. Officers have a possible location of the shooting, but are still investigating. Dayton police homicide detectives are handling the investigation. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Gun violence is down in Rochester and Greece, and local law enforcement agencies are getting more than $6.3 million in state funding to keep that momentum going. The money comes from New Yorks Gun Involved Violence Elimination initiative, which targets the 28 communities outside New York City with the highest volumes of violent crime. So far this year, both Rochester and Greece have reported fewer shootings and fewer gunfire victims compared to the same period in 2024. From January through June, the number of people shot dropped from 103 last year to 83 this year, and shooting incidents with injury declined from 81 to 76. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five agencies in Monroe County will share the $6.3 million in funding: Rochester Police Department $3,199,916 Monroe County District Attorneys Office $1,507,645 Monroe County Probation Department $980,092 Monroe County Sheriffs Office $518,679 Greece Police Department $130,877 The funding can be used for overtime, equipment, personnel, technical assistance, and enhanced training. Statewide, GIVE agencies reported 242 shootings with injury in the first half of 2025, down from 281 in the same period last year. The number of people shot fell by 22 percent, and gun-related deaths dropped from 58 to 49. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the start of the initiative under Governor Kathy Hochuls administration, GIVE agencies have reported 762 fewer shooting victims and 104 fewer gun deaths. In addition to progress on gun violence, GIVE communities also saw an 18 percent drop in total index crimes including murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft during the first quarter of 2025. Violent crime fell by 19 percent, and property crime dropped 18 percent. Locally, Rochester saw a 19 percent drop in index crimes in the first quarter of 2025, while Greece reported a 17 percent decline. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Content warning: This article contains information about alleged child sexual abuse material. Reader discretion is advised. Report CSAM to law enforcement by contacting the ICAC Tip Line at (801) 281-1211 or your local law enforcement agency. WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (ABC4) A man living in West Valley City is accused of viewing and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in the middle of a crowd at a concert over the weekend. Bradley Scott Chinn, 65, has been charged with ten counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, a second-degree felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on July 18, 2025, a detective with the West Valley City Police Department (WVCPD) was on duty at the Utah First Credit Union Ampitheatre when security alerted him that a patron reported that they had seen another patron later identified as Chinn viewing CSAM. Security provided a description and seat number to the officer, and contacted a WVCPD detective to investigate. The patron spoke with the WVCPD detective over the phone, and reported that their child had glanced at Chinns phone and observed him allegedly sending someone a text message that was sexual in nature. The patron was told about this by their child and glanced at Chinns phone as well. Provo man tried to meet with 13-year-old, destroyed tablet when approached by officers, documents say When the patron looked, they allegedly saw a message offering to send CP on Chinns phone, followed by several sexual photos of teenagers. The patron also reported to police that Chinn allegedly looked at a photo of a young child, then sent a positive message and asked for the age of the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The WVCPD officer pulled Chinn away from his seat to speak with the WVCPD detective. Chinn admitted that he had roughly 100 files of CSAM on his phone, according to court documents. The detective reviewed some of the files and confirmed that he had the illegal material on his device. Chinn allegedly told the officers that he saves every picture that he is sent and had some videos that were disturbing. The 65-year-old confirmed that he was allegedly viewing and receiving CSAM while at a concert venue, surrounded by other people, including children. He stated that he had an addiction to pornography and had been viewing CSAM for two months, documents say. Chinn was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail, where he is currently being held without bail. He has an initial appearance scheduled for July 28. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. Jul. 22A 75-year-old man is stable after he was shot near Burkham Center Park in Dayton Monday afternoon. Initially the man was in serious condition, but his condition was non-life-threatening, Dayton police said Tuesday afternoon. Just before 2:50 p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the area of Bancroft and South Paul Laurence Dunbar streets for a report of a person shot. "Upon arrival officers located the male victim who was transported to an area hospital in serious condition," Dayton police Sgt. Chris Savage said Monday. "One suspect is currently in custody." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person from Public Health Dayton and Montgomery County's mobile unit called 911, according to Montgomery County Regional Dispatch records. The caller said there were two juveniles and one shot into a car on Paul Laurance Dunbar Street. Both then ran from the scene. The investigation is ongoing. Florida law enforcement officials said eight suspects have been arrested in connection with a multi-million-dollar fraud investigation. According to the Polk County Sheriffs Office, the bank fraud and racketeering scheme impacted 235 victims across various states and stole $8.8 million in funds. The investigation, which began in April 2023, was conducted with the assistance of the Florida Attorney Generals Office of Statewide Prosecution, the Florida Attorney Generals Cyber Fraud Enforcement Unit, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and detectives from several other states. The suspects targeted elderly victims, transferring money into accounts they opened to disburse among themselves or make purchases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the investigation was triggered when Synchrony Bank noticed suspicious activity tied to a newly opened account belonging to 27-year-old Michael Nevarez of Lakeland. According to a report, the account received a $250,000 transfer, and the funds were quickly dispersed to other accounts. Detectives said they discovered that the stolen account information originated from three bank employees in Maryland. Deputies said the employees, including 65-year-old Barbara Frazee and 57-year-old Camala Shafer, had access to customer data, which was then sold via the Telegram app. Investigators said Nevarez and others, including 26-year-old Roshado Durrant and 23-year-old Hassan Phillips, were involved in transferring and receiving large sums of money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durrant admitted to acting as a recruiter, facilitating the sale of stolen bank credentials, officials said. Detectives said the investigation revealed that a majority of the compromised accounts were accessed using Frazees credentials. This wasnt some small-time scam; this was a well-organized fraud ring stealing millions from innocent victims across the country, said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. They thought they could hide behind mobile apps and fake accounts, but we found them. And well continue to go after anyone who targets hardworking peoples life savings. Racketeering is a serious crime, and these suspects are facing serious consequences for their illegal criminal conduct. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. TEHRAN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Iranian authorities on Wednesday closed government offices in 22 provinces, including Tehran, and reduced working hours in four others to manage water and electricity shortages during a record heatwave. The decision was made as temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius nationwide, nearing 50 degrees Celsius in some regions. It also followed an "unprecedented" drought, with precipitation from the beginning of the current water year, which started on Sept 22, 2024, declining by 40 percent from the long-term average recorded in the same period of the previous water year, the official news agency IRNA reported Wednesday, quoting the Iran Water Resources Management. According to IRNA, dams now hold only 44 percent of capacity, while southern provinces like Hormozgan and Fars face total depletion. Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA), citing Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi, reported Wednesday that Tehran's dams recorded a 50-percent drop in water intake. He also confirmed a 41-percent rainfall decrease in Tehran. The Tehran Province Water and Wastewater Company said Wednesday that it will suspend water supply to all public and private pools as of Thursday until further notice, IRNA reported. During a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged that past efforts have failed to resolve the crisis, and demanded "immediate actions." An analysis piece of ISNA said that decades of unsustainable farming and industrial projects in arid zones, as well as subsidized water prices are key factors aggravating the crisis. Eight children were hospitalized after having apparent seizures during a concert in Cambridge, Mass., on July 22. The children, who were between ages 11 and 13, were part of Chur dEnfants dIle-de-France, a French choir group that was visiting St. Pauls Parish in Harvard Square to perform a free concert, Boston.com reported. PEOPLE has reached out to St. Pauls Parish for further information. Google Maps Saint Paul's Parish in Cambridge, Mass. Saint Paul's Parish in Cambridge, Mass. First responders rushed to the church around 7 p.m. after receiving reports of a child having a seizure, Cambridge Fire Chief Thomas Cahill told WCVB. When they arrived, we did have one student within a choir group who was sitting on the front steps who wasnt actively seizing. That quickly escalated into seven other people having seizure-like symptoms." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The children said they felt sick after smelling an odor and reported having trouble breathing before the seizures, per The Boston Globe. Some adults also reported smelling an odor, but crews said they didnt notice anything when they arrived on the scene, Boston.com reported. Cahill told WCVB that a hazmat and rescue team inspected the building and didnt find a source of the reported odor. The Cambridge Fire Department shared on Facebook, The Fire Dept hazmat team completed a thorough survey of the St. Paul buildings utilizing several air sampling meters to ensure that no hazardous conditions were present. Results were negative and the buildings were ventilated. Cambridge Fire Department/Facebook A first responder helps a sickened child in Cambridge, Mass. A first responder helps a sickened child in Cambridge, Mass. They also shared it wasnt a carbon dioxide leak: No CO was detected via several fire company air sampling meters. The approximately 70 other people were in attendance did not report any adverse effects. The affected pre-teen & early teen youths were transported for non-life-threatening injury evaluation, the Cambridge Fire Department said in a post on X. Per CBS News, the children are expected to recover. 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 An elderly at-risk woman reported missing earlier this month was found dead Tuesday morning in Santa Barbara County, officials announced. On July 14, California Highway Patrol issued a Silver Alert for 85-year-old Sonia Lang Crestfield at the request of the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office. The 85-year-old, who was believed to have been walking when she disappeared, had last been seen on July 11 around 6647 El Colegio Road in Isla Vista near Friendship Manor, a nonprofit retirement community in Santa Barbara County, where she lived, according to multiple media reports. Sonia Lang Crestfield, 85, a resident of Friendship Manor in Isla Vista seen in this undated photo released by the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office. Officials said shed last been seen wearing a black sweater, blue jeans, black shoes and white gloves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please dont shoot me: Frightening details emerge in Encino double murder Its unclear exactly when she was reported missing, though authorities said she had not been in contact with anyone for several days and that she may have been confused or disoriented because of issues with dementia, the Santa Barbara County news outlet Noozhawk reported. The 85-year-olds body was found just after 11 a.m. Tuesday around Goleta Slough, a wetlands area approximately two and a half miles from where shed last been seen, according to a news release from the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office. While sheriffs detectives are investigating the cause and manner of Crestfields death, they do not believe it is suspicious in nature. Advertisement 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. This article discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7. More information about warning signs of suicide risk and treatment resources throughout Ohio are available here. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A leading central Ohio LGBTQ+ organization is sounding the alarm after the Trump administration eliminated specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The decision went into effect last week and removes the option for young people to Press 3 when calling 988, connecting them with counselors trained in LGBTQ+ issues. Amanda Erickson, senior associate director of programs and operations at Kaleidoscope Youth Center, condemned the move, citing the compounding impact of federal and state policies rolling back LGBTQ+ protections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus City Council votes to create new LGBTQ+ affairs commission Its really awful that this is the direction that were seeing some of our policies going federally and statewide, Erickson said. The risk there is that, when a young person is calling this 988 hotline, knowing that its an appropriate place for them to get support, theyre not necessarily able to access the very tailored support that might help them if something about their identity is the core of an issue. (Courtesy Photo/Kaleidoscope Youth Center) Launched alongside 988 in 2022, the Press 3 option was created given LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of depression and are more likely to attempt suicide, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows. Further, research from The Trevor Project shows that nearly 40% of all LGBTQ+ youth have thought about or attempted suicide. Erickson said removal of Press 3 means callers may now be routed to someone lacking that understanding. They might reach a counselor or therapist that is not as up to date on LGBTQ+ issues as they could be, Erickson said. Theyre losing that kind of tailored support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the change, Kaleidoscope and other Ohio groups are working to ensure LGBTQ+ youth are still connected to care, Erickson said. She noted that TransOhio, a statewide trans-led organization, maintains an up-to-date list of support groups, and Kaleidoscope regularly includes crisis numbers in communications, on its website and social media. Ohio Attorney General: State will appeal school voucher ruling this week We have a plethora of resources in central Ohio and statewide that folks can still access, she said. I think the complicated part is remembering that all of those exist, and finding out how to get in contact with them, because 988 was such a huge opportunity to have an easy number like 911 to be able to share with folks. The elimination of Press 3 follows a wave of legislation deemed anti-LGBTQ+ in Ohio, from restrictions on certain healthcare for trans youth to limitations on how sexuality can be discussed in schools. Erickson also expressed concern about the impact of recent Supreme Court rulings, one that upheld another states gender-affirming care ban and another that said parents can remove their students from school lessons with LGBTQ+ books. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of them essentially gave parents the right to remove their kids from classes and the other one removed a parents right to access healthcare for their children, said Erickson. When the legislature or the judicial system is using terms like parents rights, I think its important for people to recognize which parents get those rights. Ohio House overrides one budget veto, hoping to provide property tax relief The combination of eroded representation, disappearing services and targeted legislation leaves LGBTQ+ youth feeling increasingly isolated, Erickson said. Despite the setbacks, she said Kaleidoscope remains committed to helping youth find the care they need through local resources. We try to keep up to date resources on our website, knowing that were only open a couple hours a day, she said. Youth can find our social media or our website and access those national crisis numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kaleidoscopes drop-in center is open from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Learn more and view resources, including national crisis phone numbers, at www.kycohio.org. Learn more about TransOhio and its list of emergency resources at www.transohio.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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) AAA is rolling out its safety campaign that is aimed at curbing unsafe driving in school zones and neighborhoods. With more than 1.7 million children set to return to classrooms across Georgia, AAA is calling on all drivers to be alert and exercise caution in neighborhoods and school zones by reducing speeds, avoiding distractions and looking out for pedestrians. Georgia roadways are increasingly crowded during back-to-school season, and the safety of children traveling to and from school must be a top priority, said Garrett Townsend, Georgia Public Affairs Director of AAA. Drivers should always be on high alert, particularly in areas where children are present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AAA points to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that revealed 63% of child pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2023 were struck during weekdays between the times 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with afternoon peak times following the school day being the most dangerous. If parents and other drivers follow these simple rules when driving in and around school zones, countless children can avoid injury and death, Townsend said. Its up to us to help all drivers become more aware of the risks of driving around schools. AAA Georgia has also partnered with the Georgia Governors Office of Highway Safety to launch the Schools Open Drive Carefully campaign that highlights road safety among communities across the state. The agency is also planning to hold a press conference in Columbus. The press conference will be held on Aug. 1 at 11 a.m. at the Muscogee County School District Lobby of the Public Education Center at 2960 Macon Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency also issued some essential traffic tips for keeping children safe by: Slowing down and sticking to the school zone speed limits, even 10 miles per hour can make a difference between life and death of a pedestrian. Eliminating distractions by avoiding phone usage or texting, a glance away doubles a drivers chance of a crash. Reverse carefully and check for children before backing out of parking spots, while parents continue to teach children to stay clear of vehicles. Talk to teens about safe driving habits, especially during after-school hours between 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and crosswalks. Always check for children in the area and brace for complete stops. Look out for patrollers working traffic. If a driver is in a school zone, then there are usually traffic patrollers present. That includes AAA School Safety Patrollers with over 679,000 spread across the nation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Attorneys for Kilmar Abrego Garcia asked a judge to block Trump administration officials from making damaging statements about their client, saying they could hinder his right to a fair trial. The request from the attorneys seeks to block extrajudicial statements they say violate court rules, pointing to specific comments from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. These commentsmade by a sitting cabinet secretary (and one of the Nations highest ranking law enforcement officials) in this District, mere miles from the courthouse where Mr. Abregos case is pendingare precisely of the type that are most likely to prejudice Mr. Abregos right to a fair trial, the attorneys wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secretary Noem assailed Mr. Abregos character and reputation, including with verbal insults and allegations that are irrelevant to the offenses charged in the indictment and almost certainly inadmissible at trial. Local rules bar officials involved in a case from making statements that have a substantial likelihood of materially prejudicing future jurors or that will interfere with a fair trial. In prior comments, Noem accused Abrego Garcia of committing crimes far afield of those included in his indictment for alleged human trafficking. The Trump administration has said a 2022 traffic stop that saw Abrego Garcia transporting several other men amounts to human trafficking and has also released court records showing his wife at one point sought a protective order against him, though it was dismissed the next month when she failed to appear in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The basis for the other claims is unclear. I am grateful that this man is being brought to justice, Noem said at a press conference last week. He has a lifetime history of trafficking individuals and of taking advantage of minors, soliciting pornography from them, nude photos of them, abusing his wife, abusing other illegals, aliens that were in this country, women that were under his care while he was trafficking them. Hes a horrible human being and a monster, and he should never be released free. Abrego Garcias attorneys noted the comment was made in Tennessee and would be highly visible to those who will be tapped for the jury pool in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Especially given that Secretary Noem went out of her way to come to this District and make these remarks to the local press, these statements are not just highly likely to taint the jury pool; they appear calculated to maximize the prejudice to Mr. Abrego, they wrote. The Department of Homeland Security did not address the substance of the request from Abrego Garcias team, instead blaming the media. However the statement did not repeat some of the allegations from Noem. Once again, the media is falling all over themselves to defend this criminal illegal MS-13 gang member who is an alleged human trafficker and a domestic abuser. The medias sympathetic narrative about this criminal illegal alien has completely fallen apart, yet they continue to peddle his sob story. We hear far too much about gang members and criminals false sob stories and not enough about their victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story was updated at 4:56 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. A man accused in one of Everetts most complex and disturbing cases is heading to prison for decades, officials in the Washington city said. Christian Sayre, 39, received a 109-year sentence in connection with multiple rape and indecent liberties convictions spread out over four trials, the Everett Police Department said in a July 21 news release. Sayres attorney, David Roberson, declined to comment in a July 23 email to McClatchy News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police in Everett started looking into Sayre about four years ago, after DNA evidence linked him to a 2020 sexual assault case, officials said. Investigators uncovered dozens of potential victims and a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior stretching back over two decades, according to officials. As they investigated, they found a notebook listing over 30 women, along with hard drives containing child pornography, officials said, adding that several of the women named in Sayres notes came forward and reported assaults, some dating as far back as 2001. In all, Sayre was found guilty of 16 felony charges, among them multiple counts of rape and indecent liberties involving both adult and minor victims, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes also facing sexual assault charges in Oregon, according to officials. Sayre was the owner of a bar in Everett called Anchor Pub, KCPQ reported. In the news release, Everett officials praised the investigators, prosecutors and survivors. The bravery of the survivors who came forward to share their trauma and experiences, brought justice for the egregious sexual assaults committed by Christian Sayre, Everett police Det. Susan Logothetti said in the release. There is no doubt that their courage put an end to Sayre continuing his predatory behavior in this community. Everett is about a 30-mile drive north from Seattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man kidnapped woman, chained her in his garage and raped her, NM officials say Man sex trafficked woman and then abandoned her in California forest, feds say Accused rapists sister tries to bribe witness, then hes killed, MO cops say HONOLULU (KHON2) All public school bus routes that have been operating will continue to run this upcoming school year. The Department of Education made the announcement Tuesday, with less than two weeks before the new school year starts. Back to school made easy: Free school supplies, haircuts and more For the last three years, the DOE suspended bus routes. But this year, most routes will be running come August 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, I feel like its much, much improved than where we were at the same point last year, said Rep. Trish La Chica, House Education Committee Vice-Chair. At this time last year, the DOE announced it was suspending 147 routes across Oahu, Maui and the Big Island, affecting more than 3,700 students. Were in a much stronger position heading into this school year thanks to early planning, staffing gains and creative support options for families, said Schools Superintendent Keith Hayashi in a statement. DOE says currently, nine of those routes are still not running. One big issue thats affecting Hawaii, and the rest of the country, is a lack of bus drivers. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Its not easy to recruit and retain drivers, said La Chica. And this is happening nationwide, so we really wanted to look at what other options are there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State lawmakers say they are trying to give the department some tools to try and solve the problem. For example, they did pass House Bill 862 this past legislative session which extends Governor Greens emergency proclamation that allows other vehicles, not just yellow buses, to transport students to and from school. But thats not possible right now because, according to La Chica, the DOEs contract with its current bus provider doesnt allow that. So it would have to be amended. Im here urging the department and asking them to work with us, work with the Governors office and just help us be able to realize this law to its fullest extent, said La Chica. The DOE is also extending its free express county bus pass to middle school students. Previously, only high school students were eligible. And a carpool pilot program is launching for students in central Oahu and upcountry Maui this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All we wanna do is to help get our kids to school safely, and from my point of view, I wanna make sure that every single student has that reliable form of transportation, said La Chica. In a letter sent home to parents on July 7 from the DOE, parents are urged to apply for bus service as soon as possible, as applications are reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority does go to elementary and special education students. Check out more news from around Hawaii Up until we get to that point where every family that needs school bus services will be able to say, I have access to get my kid to school safely, thats when well feel confident that we were able to address this, said La Chica. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NICOSIA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli cruise ship with 1,600 Israeli nationals on board docked at the Cypriot port of Limassol on Wednesday after it left the Greek island of Syros as a result of a mass protest at the island's port, according to Limassol port authorities. Israeli media reported that the ship, the "Crown Iris", was forced to leave Syros as hundreds of local people gathered at the port to protest Israeli actions in Gaza. The ship's operators, Mano Maritime, said in a statement that the vessel encountered a demonstration by pro-Palestinian supporters at the port of Syros, and passengers were stuck on board without permission to disembark. The Limassol port authorities did not say how long the ship would remain there or whether its passengers would disembark. The "Crown Iris" had been used to transfer thousands of Israelis and third country nationals between Israel and Cyprus in June after Israel closed its airspace during an 11-day missile war with Iran. Activists sound alarm over promotion of police officer who shot Amir Locke originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Community members and activists are sounding the alarm and calling for accountability over the promotion of a Minneapolis police sergeant who shot and killed Amir Locke while serving a no-knock warrant in 2022. Chief Brian OHara confirms Sgt. Mark Hanneman is currently working as a use-of-force instructor at the Minneapolis Police Training Division, with his assignment due to end in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That work has been reviewed and approved by the Citys independent evaluator. What he does next will continue to be based on the needs of the department and our continued goal to build community trust," said OHara in a statement. On Tuesday, several local activist groups held a press conference at Minneapolis City Hall, to voice their concerns about Hanneman's promotion and assignment, saying it all came without "any public notice, disciplinary review, or independent investigation." Locke family Many called for Hannemans removal, a full misconduct investigation, and more transparency from the mayors office. This is a devastating betrayal of public trust and a slap in the face to Amir Lockes family and our entire community, said Nekima Levy Armstrong, attorney and founder of the Racial Justice Network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On February 2, 2022, Hanneman was part of a Minneapolis Police Department SWAT team serving a no-knock warrant raid in connection to a homicide in St. Paul. Locke, who was not named in the warrant and was not suspected of any crime, was shot and killed. The Hennepin County Attorneys Office and the Minnesota Attorney General declined to press any charges against the officers involved in the shooting. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. PRINCETON There are hopes that Mercer County could acquire more state demolition money while the last of one grant keeps tearing dilapidated structures down. Lori Mills, dilapidated structures officer, spoke with the Mercer County Commission about a new batch of structures that are being demolished. About $88,000 of a $750,000 state Department of Environmental Protection grant was left. In January 2024, Mercer County was awarded $750,000 from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection for tearing down dilapidated homes and other structures. Much of this money has been distributed as grants to property owners who cant afford to have their old buildings torn down. County residents as well as people living in Athens, Bramwell and Oakvale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A $1.5 million grant awarded in 2023 has been spent on multiple demolitions across the county. Between the two grants, around 350 structures have been torn down. About 20 structures are slated for demolition, Mills said Tuesday. We probably had 45 or 50 applications, so it was really tough to pick and choose, Mills said. Theres been several people who have called and said did my structure make the list? and I had to say unfortunately not, but were hopeful. We did ask for additional funding and if you dont ask for it, you dont get it. Mills said the county is asking the state Department of Environmental Protection for another $750,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do I think that well get that? Probably not, but were hopeful well get something, she told the county commission. Hopefully by the end of the month or the first of next month, theyll evaluate where everybody is in the state. Some have not used any of their money in this last 18 months. Im getting the feeling that some of that is going to be pulled back to the DEP to redistribute. So fingers crossed that we get more and dont necessarily have to go back to business as usual. We just dont know. Mercer Countys demolition program has statewide recognition. The countys Dilapidated and Blight Eradication Initiative was recently awarded the 2025 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties, said Commissioner Greg Puckett. Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Lawmakers in Washington, D.C., are moving to deliver guaranteed funding for reducing wild horse populations through fertility control while eliminating loopholes that could have led to slaughter. Advocates for the iconic symbols of the American West applauded efforts by an Arizona Republican and a Wisconsin Democrat to advance strong pro-wild horse provisions in legislation that will fund the Interior Department. The legislation passed out of the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, awaiting consideration by the full House. American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) credited Reps. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.) and Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.) for their leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a major win for the American public, which has overwhelmingly demanded more humane treatment for our iconic wild horses and burros, Suzanne Roy, AWHC executive director, said. Humane roundups: BLM files response in Nevada wild horse lawsuit The House Appropriations Committee, led by the steadfast efforts of Representatives Ciscomani and Pocan, has once again stepped up to reject slaughter and direct real investment in fertility control. Now its time for the BLM to follow through and make humane managementnot removalsthe foundation of its program, Roy said. California-based AWHC pointed to changes in Interiors budget request, which the group said initially failed to include longstanding prohibitions on lethal management and commercial slaughter of federally protected wild horses and burros. The original language would have allowed a shift in federal policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bureau of Land Managements Wild Horse and Burro Program budget was initially cut by 25 percent. It allowed for the transfer of wild horses and burros to countries such as Canada and Mexico, where horse slaughter facilities continue to operate. 11 horses dead: Video shows injured horses during government operations The committee nailed down language that requires the BLM to spend $11 million on humane population management, prioritizing in-the-wild fertility control. Democratic Nevada Rep. Dina Titus continues separately to push the Wild Horse and Burro Protection Act of 2025. On July 10, Ciscomani joined Titus in introducing the bipartisan proposal, along with Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That legislation suggested that using traditional cowboys would be a cheaper method of rounding up horses than using helicopters to herd the animals into pens. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sonoma County in northern California added over 1,500 acres to Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park, making the park four times larger and creating a conservation area of more than 34 square miles, reported Local News Matters. The Save the Redwoods League paid $24 million to purchase the land from the Mendocino Redwoods Company and then transferred it to the county's Regional Parks Department. After more than 100 years as timberland, this forest will now be open to the public and maintained as a natural habitat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several groups provided money for the purchase, including the California Wildlife Conservation Board and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. Located between Sonoma Coast State Park and the current Monte Rio Redwoods park, this addition forms a 22,000-acre forest block from the coast to Bohemian Highway. The area contains waterways such as Dutch Bill, Freezeout, and Willow creeks, which provide homes for endangered coho salmon and steelhead trout. The forest has mostly young redwoods that came back after logging in the mid-19th century removed almost all the original trees along the Russian River. These young redwoods benefit California's climate action plans because they absorb carbon more quickly than older trees and can store it for hundreds of years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This addition supports California's aim to protect 30% of state lands by 2030 as part of its climate strategy. Park visitors can see a special 14-foot-wide redwood with a tunnel carved through it, one of the few older trees left in the area. "This gorgeous property connects a network of protected lands, safeguarding critical wildlife corridors, salmon-bearing streams and fast-growing young redwood forests," said Steve Mietz, president and CEO of Save the Redwoods League. "The Monte Rio Redwoods Expansion is a phenomenal win not only for the West County, but for all of Sonoma County," said supervisor Lynda Hopkins in a statement. "This land is breathtakingly beautiful and it's a vital part of our region's ecological health, climate resilience and cultural heritage." Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. 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. BOSTON (SHNS) With legislation languishing on Beacon Hill to expand access to free menstrual products in public buildings, women advocacy groups say they have stepped up to distribute items in an attempt to tackle period poverty and financial barriers. In the last seven months, the Massachusetts National Organization for Women has teamed up with other groups to dole out more than half a million period products throughout the state, operations and communications manager Kyla Speizer said. We dont expect anyone, whether theyre employees, students or simply entering a public building to bring their own toilet paper. And menstrual products should be treated no differently, Speizer told the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She testified in support of bills from Rep. Mindy Domb and Sen. Pat Jehlen (H 3318 / S 2156) that would require free disposable menstrual products including sanitary napkins, tampons and underwear liners to be available in bathrooms inside public buildings, as well as public institutions of higher education. The products must be available in a convenient manner that does not stigmatize any persons seeking such products, according to the legislation. The Senate unanimously passed a similar bill last session requiring free period products in schools, temporary housing facilities and correction facilities. It died in the House Ways and Means Committee. This is a practical and essential step toward gender equity in public health, Speizer said. Our states community colleges and public universities serve more than more than 225,000 students. Assuming that roughly half are menstruators, this policy could immediately benefit at least 112,000 residents across the commonwealth. Jehlen, recognizing the public awareness efforts of Mass NOW and other advocates, acknowledged the growing number of free menstrual products in private businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This bill will make them available in all public buildings, so that everyone going into a restroom in any public space will be confident that their needs will be met, Jehlen said. A dispenser in a State House public restroom on the first floor charges 50 cents for pads and tampons, though the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators has free supplies on hand on the fourth floor. 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 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. AUSTIN (KXAN) Representatives of several activist groups held a press conference Wednesday to oppose a special session bill, which they say would create an unenforceable ban on transgender womens use of restrooms and shelters. Women and survivors of violence have been repeatedly used as justification to exclude trans women from public restrooms. Now, women from all walks of life are coming together to say, not in my name,' reads a Tuesday press release from liberal advocacy group Equality Texas. Previous: Texas special session on floods, taxes, THC, redistricting could also spend time targeting transgender life Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rally included speakers from Texas AFL-CIO, Black Freedom Factory, Austin LGBTQ Chamber, Human Rights Campaign, Democrasexy, the Transgender Education Network of Texas, Texas Freedom Network and Equality Texas. Former candidate for Texas governor Wendy Davis is also scheduled to speak. We know that trans women are four times more likely than cisgender women to be the victims of violent crimes, the release reads. There is no way to police bathrooms without subjecting women and girls to invasive investigations demanding proof of gender. The press conference was livestreamed. Whats in the bill House Bill 32, filed by Rep. Valoree Swanson, R-Spring, is titled the Texas Womens Privacy Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would require the states political subdivisions to prevent people from using sex-segregated multiple-occupancy private spaces that dont align with their sex assigned at birth. The law would apply to restrooms in government buildings and public schools, as well as jails and prisons. Gender definition bill passes in Texas Senate, heads to governor A political subdivision or state agency shall ensure each multiple-occupancy private space in a building the political subdivision or state agency owns, operates, or controls is designated for and used only by individuals of the same biological sex, HB 32 reads. A political subdivision or state agency shall take every reasonable step to ensure an individual whose biological sex is opposite to the biological sex designated does not enter the private space. The bill would allow Texass Attorney General to investigate and fine any political subdivision for violations. As introduced, HB 32 wouldnt allow for fines or legal actions against individual persons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced this week that Senate Bill 7, authored by Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, will be his chambers companion to the bill. This is about safety, Middleton said. This is about privacy. It hasnt been filed yet. Both bills fall under Gov. Greg Abbotts special session topic of legislation protecting womens privacy in sex-segregated spaces. Its ridiculous, [opponents of this type of legislation] are literally arguing that we need to put the rights of men pretending to be women above those of women themselves, Middleton said. Its not right. Its not common sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HB 32 was one of the first bills filed ahead of the session. Prior attempts ended in failure, lacked evidence The text is near-identical to SB 240, which Middleton filed during the regular session of the legislature. It passed in the Texas Senate but died in the Texas House. During floor debate, Democratic senators asked for evidence supporting his bills necessity. Middleton didnt provide any and instead repeatedly called it common sense. He also pushed back against the idea of commissioning a study related to the topic. State Sen. Mayes Middleton running for Texas Attorney General Back in the 2017 regular session of the state legislature, bill with a similar goal failed. Abbott called a special session in 2017 that included the topic; it also failed to pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2017 | Transgender veteran fears for safety if forced to use mens bathroom The 2017 bill was filed by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham. It was also met with requests for her to provide data or evidence of a problem. In the crimes that Ive looked at, in the most intimate settings, none have identified as a transgender, Kolkorst said during a 2017 committee hearing on her bill. A more narrowed focus during special legislative sessions Research and data nonpartisan nonprofit Texas 2036 said its not uncommon for similar legislation to be filed. There are a number of reasons why a bill may not pass during a regular session, Jordan Wat, director of government affairs at Texas 2036 said. Maybe time ran out on that bill while it was being considered in one of the chambers. Perhaps there were some procedural issues related to it. Maybe the political winds were just not there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watt said similar legislation filed that previously failed, can be more successful in special sessions, depending on the topic. Because theres a bit more focus, Wat said. In comparison to 140 day regular session, [Abbott] has laid out an 18-item agenda for members to consider and cover over the course of these next 28 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 KXAN Austin. MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Midland man was arrested Monday morning after police say he forced his way into his pregnant ex-girlfriends home and assaulted her during a confrontation over her phone. According to an arrest affidavit, 38-year-old John Michael Rivera was arrested around 12:17 a.m. on Monday, July 21, and is now facing two felony charges: assault of a pregnant person and continuous violence against the family. Reports showed that Midland police were dispatched to a home late Sunday night for a disturbance. The caller told dispatch that her ex-boyfriend, Rivera, had shown up uninvited, tried to take her phone, and physically assaulted her. The woman, who is pregnant and has young children, told officers Rivera began banging on her front door around 11:30 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of concern for her children, who were asleep inside, the woman cracked the door open and was immediately confronted by Rivera, who accused her of planning to invite someone over, according to the affidavit. She began filming the interaction on her phone, and video footage later showed Rivera upset and confrontational. The woman told Rivera he was trespassing, but he allegedly replied, I dont care, and forced his way into the residence, demanding her phone. At one point, she said Rivera threatened her, saying, She will never walk again if she didnt comply. According to the affidavit, the woman told officers that Rivera then puffed out his chest. Fearing he would hit her, the woman said she backed away and tried to avoid him, eventually retreating to her bedroom, where she laid on the bed in order to hide the phone under her body so Rivera could not take it from her. She told police Rivera, who is approximately 61 and 300 pounds, climbed on top of her and dropped his full weight onto her pregnant torso, causing pain and preventing her from talking to 911 operators. Despite the pressure and fear, she said she managed to scream to dispatch with the phone beside her before Rivera fled the scene in his vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police later located Rivera at his place of employment. During the investigation, the victim confirmed that Rivera knew she was pregnant at the time of the assault and that he had a previous family violence case involving her from February 2025. Although the woman declined to press charges at the scene, she requested a protective order and submitted video evidence through the departments digital system. Based on the evidence and prior history, Rivera was arrested and taken to the Midland County Detention Center. His bond was set at $25,000 for each charge, totaling $50,000. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. You are not alone. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7. Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or chat online at thehotline.org. In Midland, local support services may also be available through Safe Place of the Permian Basin, which offers emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, and assistance with protective orders. Call their 24-hour crisis line at 1-800-967-8928. Advertisement 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 Yourbasin. Welcome to Foreign Policys South Asia Brief. The highlights this week: Afghanistan grapples with a refugee crisis as Iran rapidly expels tens of thousands of people, a Bangladeshi Air Force plane crash kills at least 31 people, and the Maldives hosts Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a guest of honor at its independence day festivities. Sign up to receive South Asia Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up to receive South Asia Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time. Enter your email Sign Up Loading... Signed Up Afghanistans Intensifying Crisis A rapidly intensifying refugee crisis is playing out along Irans border with Afghanistan. More than 700,000 Afghans returned to Afghanistan from Iran during the first six months of the year, according to United Nations figures. But that figure increased dramatically in the last few weeks, as Iran expels tens of thousands of Afghans. More than 500,000 Afghans were driven out of Iran between June 24 and July 9. By mid-July, the New York Times reported that the number of Afghans who had left Iran in 2025 had mushroomed to 1.4 million, most of them forcibly returned; it may reach 4 million by the end of the year. Nearly 20,000 people are now entering Afghanistan from Iran every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of those on the move were undocumented refugees in Iran, though some of those expelled reportedly had legal status. Their plight represents a complex humanitarian emergency. Nonetheless, it has clear drivers. Earlier this year, economic stress prompted Tehrans expulsion orders. In recent weeks, Iranian officials have justified the move by baselessly accusing Afghan refugees of spying for Israel during the countrys recent war with Iran. The number of people leaving Iran for Afghanistan picked up dramatically after the war ended on June 24. Afghanistan has now experienced three refugee crises in the last decade, but they have often been overshadowed by other global emergencies. In 2015, intensifying conflict in Afghanistan prompted massive outmigrationat the height of the Syrian refugee crisis. In February 2022, just months after the Taliban returned to power, spawning another refugee crisis, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. And the current crisis is unfolding amid the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it is critical that the world not look away now. The New York Times dispatch from the Iran-Afghanistan border presents a heartbreaking picture. Thousands of people are arriving in Afghanistan daily amid scorching heatmany with no home, job, or connections in the country. The returnees include women and girls who fled after the Talibans return and now cant work or go to school. In March, UNICEF estimated that 23 million Afghans, more than 50 percent of the population, will require humanitarian aid this yearand that was before most of the expulsions from Iran began. In May, the U.N. Development Program estimated that 97 percent of Afghans live below the poverty line and 69 percent are unemployed. Acute public health crises are raging. But since 2021 international humanitarian aid to Afghanistan has plummeted, largely because of the return of the Talibanwith their many U.N.-sanctioned leadersto the government in Kabul and the eruption of crises elsewhere. The U.N., one of the only consistent sources of aid to Afghanistan, has raised only 22 percent of its humanitarian assistance needs for this year. The Taliban regime may boast of its ability to accommodate the returnees from Iran, but the scale and speed of the inflows represent a herculean challenge that will exacerbate Afghanistans economic and humanitarian stress. Taliban leaders may try to leverage their friendly ties and shared concerns with Iran to press it to slow down the rate of expulsions. But Tehran so far appears unwilling to soften its stance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, the crisis could get even worse. Pakistananother top destination for Afghan refugeesis also forcing people to return to Afghanistan, albeit at a slower rate. So is the United Arab Emirates, despite a pledge from U.S. President Donald Trump to protect the many Afghans in the UAE who worked for the U.S. military. Far too many people are being forced to return to a country where they dont want to beand which is ill-prepared to receive them. What Were Following Deadly plane crash in Bangladesh. South Asia has been hit with another air tragedy, this time in Bangladesh, where on Monday an air force jet on a training mission crashed into a private school campus in Dhaka, killing at least 31 people and wounding more, most of them students. Many of those killed and injured are young children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash marks the deadliest-ever tragedy of its kind in Bangladesh, which declared a day of mourning on Tuesday. The military said that a technical malfunction led to the crash, and an air force committee is expected to investigate. But some Bangladeshis are unhappy with the interim governments initial handling of the tragedy. Hundreds of students protested in Dhaka on Tuesday, some breaching barricades at government facilities. They called for the country to stop using outdated planes in training missions and demanded more information about the crash victims. Deliveries of the China-made F-7 jet involved in the crash arrived in Bangladesh in 2013. Modi in the Maldives. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Maldives on Friday and Saturday, following a trip to the United Kingdom to ink a new trade deal. Modi is the guest of honor for the Maldives July 26 independence day festivities and will be the first foreign head of government invited to the island state since President Mohamed Muizzu took office in 2023. India and the Maldives are expected to discuss cooperation around economics, maritime security, and renewable energy. They are also reportedly negotiating a new free trade agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This marks a shift from the start of Muizzus term, when bilateral relations with India were fraught with tensions. Muizzu ran on a pledge to expel the modest Indian military presence from the Maldives, which he fulfilled. He also signed new defense deals with China, and when several Maldives officials insulted Modi on social media, it prompted many Indians to call for a tourism boycott. But the India-Maldives relationship was never doomed. Muizzus goal was not to discard India, but rather to achieve more balance in the Maldives relations with key players in the region. India enjoys leverageespecially the large amount of economic assistance it provides to the Maldivesthat ensures a committed bilateral partnership. Pakistans diplomacy. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is in the United States this week for U.N. engagements in New York, where he currently holds the rotating presidency of the U.N. Security Council, and meetings with Trump administration officials in Washington. His visit comes as Islamabaddespite economic stress and political tensions at homehas enjoyed foreign-policy achievements. In recent weeks, Pakistan has eased serious tensions with Afghanistan; boosted long-moribund ties with Bangladesh; and balanced relations with rival powers, including China, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United States. Dars visit to Washington is part of an unexpected boost for U.S.-Pakistan relations, following Trump hosting Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir at the White House in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dar may not entirely escape his governments domestic challenges: Pakistani American supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan sometimes stage protests against visiting Pakistani officials. Under the Radar Its been a challenging couple of months for U.S.-India relations. To New Delhis chagrin, Trump has offered to mediate the Kashmir dispute and repeatedly claimed to have ended the May conflict between India and Pakistan. He has threatened to slap tariffs on BRICS members, including India, and Washington is making tough demands in ongoing trade talks. Furthermore, the U.S. State Department issued a rare travel advisory for India, and the Trump administration has signaled a strong desire to strengthen ties with Pakistan. This is all why an announcement from the Indian Army that three U.S. Apache attack helicopters had arrived in the country on Tuesday offers a breath of fresh air. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The news offers a useful lesson for the U.S.-India relationship: Patience is a virtue. The two countries finalized a deal to send the helicopters to India in 2020, but supply chain disruptions and other delays pushed the delivery date more than a year beyond schedule. The powerful Apaches will bolster Indias air capacities and boost the bilateral defense partnership. The delivery of the helicopters can rekindle hopes that despite the recent bumps for U.S.-India ties, the relationship can regain its footing. FPs Most Read This Week Bidens Team Lied About Gaza. Its Time to Hold Them Accountable. by Matthew Duss The U.S. Can No Longer Stave Off Competition From China by Howard W. French Why Trump Keeps Betraying His Base by Stephen M. Walt Regional Voices A Kuensel editorial considers whether Bhutan needs a more robust political opposition: Our political landscape has often been characterized by a unique approach to opposition, one where silence is frequently equated with wisdom and maturity. But the expectation has been that the opposition will intervene at the opportune moment, for the most righteous causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Prothom Alo, education expert Fariha Nowrin discusses the misplaced potential of Bangladeshi youth: The truth is, many of our brightest students never get to realize their own brilliance. Why? Because no one told them how far they could go; because their parents were unaware of the academic roadmaps that lead to the best institutions, best scholarships, and the best pathways to the beaming tomorrow, she argues. In the Express Tribune, professor and writer M. Nadeem Nadir laments how the deaths of two Pakistani celebrities, Ayesha Khan and Humaira Asghar, went unnoticed for so long: The tragic deaths have exposed the ugly face of our connectivity and sociability in the virtual world, he writes. [S]ocial media has paradoxically turned man into an island. French news agency Agence France-Presse has urged Israel to facilitate the immediate evacuation of its freelance journalists from Gaza, warning that they face an appalling and untenable situation in the war-ravaged enclave. AFP, one of the worlds largest news services, made the appeal on Tuesday after an association of its journalists warned that their colleagues in Gaza were facing starvation. For months, we have watched helplessly as their living conditions deteriorated dramatically, the Paris-based agency said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their situation is now untenable, despite their exemplary courage, professional commitment, and resilience. While Palestinian freelancers have been crucial to informing the world since Israel banned foreign journalists from Gaza, AFP said, Israeli authorities should allow them and their families to immediately evacuate as their lives are in danger. On Monday, the Society of Journalists, an association of AFP journalists that is independent of management, warned that their colleagues in the enclave were at risk of dying of hunger. We fear learning of their deaths at any moment, and it is unbearable for us, the association said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with a few others, they are now the only ones reporting on what is happening in the Gaza Strip. International media has been banned from entering this territory for nearly two years. We refuse to watch them die. The association highlighted the cases of several journalists, including a 30-year-old photographer, identified as Bashar, who recently posted on social media that his body is thin and he had lost the strength to work. Since AFP was founded in August 1944, we have lost journalists in conflicts, we have had injured and imprisoned colleagues among us, but none of us can recall ever seeing a colleague die of hunger, the association said. On Wednesday, the Al Jazeera Media Network released a statement calling for immediate action by international organisations to bring an end to a crisis that has not spared journalists who are the bearers of truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We owe it to the courageous journalists in Gaza to amplify their voices and put an end to the unbearable suffering they are enduring due to forced starvation and targeted killings by Israeli occupation forces, Mostefa Souag, director general of Al Jazeera Media Network, said in the statement. UK charity Oxfam on Tuesday also warned that its staff in Gaza were among those facing starvation. At Oxfam, we are not just witnessing this crisis, we are living it, Bushra Khalidi, policy lead in the occupied Palestinian territory and Gaza, told Al Jazeera. My colleague, she told me on Saturday that she went to work without even water, with eating a single falafel just to keep going, and she still showed up to work, Khalidi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warnings came as Gaza health officials on Tuesday reported that at least 15 Palestinians, including four children, had starved to death over the previous 24 hours, bringing the total number of malnutrition deaths since the start of Israels war to 101. Israel blocked the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza in March, but has since May allowed a limited amount of supplies through the controversial Israel and United States-backed aid agency GHF. Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians seeking food aid since the launch of the GHF, which has been boycotted by the United Nations and leading aid agencies, most of them near the groups distribution points, according to the UN Human Rights Office. BAGHDAD, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi government on Wednesday strongly condemned the ongoing "brutal siege" imposed by Israeli forces on the people of Gaza, calling for immediate international action to address the humanitarian crisis. This inhumane and systematic policy of starving the afflicted Palestinians is a grave violation of human dignity, Iraqi government spokesperson Basim al-Awadi said in a statement. "The heartbreaking scenes of starving children standing in lines for a morsel of food, and images of women and men crowding around the few available aid trucks, now turned into death traps by the occupation forces, reflect horrifying and immoral practices," it said. The Iraqi government urged an immediate end to the starvation policy against the people of Gaza, and called for immediate international intervention to pressure Israel to lift the siege and allow relief supplies to reach those in need, read the statement. Since Israel resumed its military operations in the enclave on March 18, at least 8,363 Palestinians had been killed and 31,004 others injured, bringing the total death toll since October 2023 to 59,219, and injuries to 143,045, Gaza-based health authorities said Wednesday. Some of the latest deaths were reportedly caused by Israeli gunfire on civilians gathering for aid in the enclave. Also on Wednesday, the health authorities reported 10 more deaths from starvation and malnutrition in the past 24 hours in Gaza, raising the death toll to 111 since March. The Kentucky Attorney Generals Office has ruled that the City of London did not violate the Open Records Act when it recently denied an open records appeal from The Sentinel-Echo. The opinion, issued Friday, stems from a request submitted by this newspaper June 9, seeking the names of London Police Department employees placed on administrative leave since Dec. 1, 2024. The request came after a London Police officer fatally shot 63-year-old Doug Harless during the execution of a late-night search warrant at his home on Dec. 23, 2024. In a letter dated June 13, Acting City Clerk Ashley Taylor denied the request, citing KRS 61.878(1)(a), (h), and (i), which allow records to be withheld if they are part of a preliminary investigation or would result in an unwarranted invasion of privacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sentinel-Echo appealed to Attorney General Russell Coleman. In siding with the city, Assistant Attorney General Zachary Zimmerer on behalf of the Attorney Generals Office concluded that disclosing the officers name could subject them to public scorn, threats, or harassment particularly since the officer had not been charged with any wrongdoing and the investigation was still ongoing. The city noted the officer was receiving medical care and emphasized that its policy is to place officers involved in shootings on leave pending the outcome of internal reviews. While the city declined to release the name of the officer connected to the Harless shooting, City Attorney Larry Bryson confirmed that Officer Jared Hale was also placed on leave during the timeframe presented in the open records request. The Sentinel-Echo followed up with an additional open records request on July 17 regarding Hale. The city responded within five days, on July 22, and released documents confirming that Hale had been placed on paid administrative leave on January 9, following an internal inquiry related to a phone call he made to Laurel County Judge-Executive David Westerfield on December 24, 2024. He returned to full duty on January 21. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The matter ultimately resolved with Hales resignation from the department, made effective March 30. At press time Tuesday, the city continued to withhold the identity of the officer involved in the December shooting, and the case remains under investigation by Kentucky State Police. AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Grok can be a big help in writing essays, conducting research, and exploring complex issues. But these tools bring risks, especially when they filter facts through a political lens.And the Trump administration is now stepping into the debate. "We believe AI systems should operate free of ideological bias and avoid pushing socially engineered agendas,"saidDavid Sacks, the administrations AI and crypto czar, in a statement today. "Weve introduced several proposals to ensure AI stays truth-seeking and trustworthy." Over the weekend, I saw this bias unfold in real time. On Friday, a user on Elon Musks platform X asked Grok whether more guns make Americans safer. Grok responded flatly: "No, evidence shows more guns correlate with higher firearm homicides and violent crime rates." The chatbot dismissed self-defense and deterrence, referring to my research -specifically my "more guns, less crime" theory - as something cited by "right-wing advocates." Grok supported its claims by referencingScientific Americanmagazine and a RAND Corporation review, saying these sources show guns dont reduce crime and instead increase violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those answers are misleading and wrong. The Scientific American article had extensive biases. Grok ignored my published rebuttal in Scientific American. In it, I noted that over two-thirds of peer-reviewed studies show that concealed carry laws do reduce crime. Melinda Wenner Moyer, a journalist affiliated with Michael Bloombergs The Trace, a well-known gun control advocacy outlet, wrote the article. I had provided Moyer with those studies while she prepared her piece, but she ignored them. She failed to acknowledge any of my post-1998 work and misrepresented the findings of the National Research Councils major report on the topic. Grok gave tremendous weight to RANDs literature survey, claiming that RAND had surveyed 100+ studies. Eventually, Grok conceded that the number of papers studying right-to-carry laws was actually 25, showing a range of mixed results. I pointed out that the California-based think tank was highly selective in the sources it included, ignoring dozens more papers showing that these laws lowered violent crime rates and surveys of academics who have published peer-reviewed empirical research. Even then, Grok largely ignored my responses and focused on two papers claiming that right-to-carry laws increased violent crime. The first failed to control for any variables - such as changes in policing, poverty, or economic conditions - that affect crime trends after adopting right-to-carry laws. When I pointed that out, Grok mentioned another study thatdemonstrated a statistical technique that could account for such factors, but that study didnt look at right-to-carry laws. Only after a prolonged exchange did Grok acknowledge the error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second paper Grok emphasized made a subtler mistake: It compared states that had recently adopted right-to-carry laws to states that had adopted such laws years earlier. The early adopters made it easier to obtain permits and saw much larger increases in concealed handgun permits during the period studied. Comparing later adopters - who saw smaller increases - to these early states skewed the results. If crime didnt fall as much in the newer states, the flawed analysis made it look as if crime had risen. Again, only after I cited my own peer-reviewed studies from 2022 and 2024 did Grok acknowledge the issue. When Grok argued that more guns lead to more firearm homicides, I asked it to name any country that banned all guns or handguns and saw homicide rates fall - or even stay the same. Grok cited Australia, Great Britain, and Brazil, but none of those examples are accurate. Australia never banned all guns or handguns. Firearm homicides had already been falling for 15 years before the 1997 buyback and fell more slowly afterward. Meanwhile, gun ownership actually increased and by 2010 had surpassed pre-buyback levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Britain, handgun bans enacted in 1997 preceded a 50% surge in homicide rates over the next seven years. The rates didnt decline until the government boosted the police force by 14% over two years. Even then, homicide rates took 14 years to return to pre-ban levels. Brazil didnt ban all guns or handguns either. While its 2003 gun control law included a boost in law enforcement resources, murder rates remained largely unchanged. Only after President Jair Bolsonaro took office in January 2019 - liberalizing gun ownership and increasing legal gun ownership by 650% - did Brazils homicide rate drop by more than 30%. Only after I laid out these facts did Grok concede, calling them "fair points" and then echoing the very arguments I had just made. My experience with Grok is not unique. To study the chatbots political biases, the Crime Prevention Research Center, which I head, asked various AI programs questions on crime and gun control last yearin Marchand againin Augustandranked the answerson how progressive or conservative their responses were. The chatbots tilted to the left, claiming that things like higher arrest and conviction rates dont deter crime and clearly supporting more gun control laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI chatbots speak with certainty but often rely on sources with clear biases. They cite selective evidence, misrepresent or dont understand complex findings, and ignore reputable research that challenges a politically convenient narrative. AI chatbots also hallucinate, meaning they sometimes completely make up facts. Students, journalists, and everyday citizens increasingly rely on these tools. If they accept chatbot responses at face value, they risk walking away with a fundamentally distorted view of issues like gun policy. John R. Lott Jr. is president of the Crime Prevention Research Center. He served as the senior advisor for research and statistics in the Office of Justice Programs and the Office of Legal Policy in the U.S. Department of Justice during 2020-21. Gaza is facing mass starvation, more than 100 aid agencies warned. The World Health Organization told the BBC that malnutrition was starkly on the rise, with 30,000 children malnourished, while another UN humanitarian body said the last lifelines keeping people alive were collapsing. The Hamas-run health ministry said 33 children had starved to death in two days. There are just four aid distribution sites to feed two million people after a controversial US-backed foundation took over in May. Israel said 950 trucks worth of aid is ready for delivering, but agencies said they were blocked from accessing them. A WHO official described one child so underweight that they looked like theyre two when actually theyre five. Arguably the most far-reaching developments in military technology and tactics that we have witnessed in Russias invasion of Ukraine is the contest for air superiority above the battlefield using an increasing number and variety of drones. In Ukraine, the outcome of this struggle could determine not just the trajectory of individual battles but also help decide the outcome of the entire conflict. And far beyond the current war, the new drone-centric war-fighting capabilities being developed by Ukraine and Russia have made old Western doctrines of air superiority largely obsolete. Thousands of drones now operate in this so-called air littoralthe technical term for the airspace between ground forces and traditional aircraft flying at an altitude of several thousand meters. Unlike traditional air superiority contests fought high in the sky, where fighter jets and bombers typically operate, the air littoral represents a different domain. Here, small commercial drones, first-person view systems, and anti-drone defensefrom machine-gun fire to electronic jamming and interceptor droneswage a constant, grinding fight for supremacy. Ukraines once-formidable advantage in drone warfare appears to be eroding along parts of the front line. This degradation extends far beyond the immediate frontmore Russian drones now prowl for targets up to 25 kilometers (roughly 16 miles) behind the contact line, and they have been hitting their targets more effectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine achieved an advantage in drone warfare early in the war. But a breakthrough came in early 2024: After its forces were pushed out of the eastern town of Avdiivka amid a severe artillery munitions shortage due to delays in Western aid, Ukraine pivoted toward a new system of drone-centric warfare. Kyiv established the Unmanned Systems Forces, a new and separate military branch in order to unify what had been a heterogeneous, improvised drone force involving many privately funded, independent companies of drone operators. These were eventually reorganized into battalions, regiments, and, lately, large brigades. Rapidly scaling up the use of various types of drones for both surveillance and attacking targets, the Ukrainian military developed a system of layered defenses extending multiple kilometers deep. On the ground, this was combined with defensive positions and fortifications involving infantry, artillery, and land mines. In 2024, that gave Ukraine an advantage in both quality and quantity of drones, which enabled its forces to inflict high casualties on the Russians, especially during the latters offensive operations in southern Donetsk last fall. Ukraines drone supply increased nineteenfold during 2024, with drones responsible for around 80 percent of Russian front-line casualties as of November. Residents survey the aftermath of a Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv on June 10. Maxym Marusenko/NurPhoto via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, war involves constant adaptation, and Russia has not remained static. And it began to catch up earlier this year. When I spent some time with Ukrainian front-line soldiers in the southern Donbas earlier this month, a word that I often heard from them was Rubiconshort for Russias Rubicon Center of Advanced Unmanned Technologies. Established in August 2024 by order of Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, Rubicon represents the core of Russias newly systematic approach to drone warfare. What makes Rubicon particularly dangerous is its methodical manner of countering Ukraines drone advantages one by one, including by intercepting Ukrainian drones, killing drone teams on the ground, and severing logistics lines. The Russians also introduced fiber-optic controlled dronessystems that communicate via ultra-thin, miles-long tethers rather than wireless frequencies, making them immune to the electronic jamming that Ukraine used so successfully during its invasion of Russias Kursk region in 2024. Fiber-optic drones, while heavier and slower than conventional drones, maintain stable control even under intense electronic warfare conditions. And Russian adaptation extends to tactics, with a heavy focus on targeting Ukrainian drones, operators, and logistics. If Moscows new approach allows its forces to establish air littoral superiority across the front, then it would severely disrupt the Ukrainians ability to maneuver effectively on the battlefield. Additionally, the threat of Russian drones could suppress Ukrainian artillery, undermining what is now rough parity in artillery strength on parts of the front. Perhaps most critically, this air superiority could lead to higher Ukrainian casualties, exacerbating Ukraines already significant manpower shortage. The remnants of a drone rest on the ground in Stepnohirsk, Ukraine, near the front line with Russia, on July 18.Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraines response must be quick and comprehensively unmanned. The countrys Drone Line initiative, which aims to transform ad-hoc efforts to counter Russian drones into a coordinated, multi-layered defense network, is a step in the right direction. Centered around elite units (including the 20th Separate Regiment K-2, 429th Regiment Achilles, 427th Regiment Rarog, 414th Brigade Birds of Madyar, and Phoenix unit), its main objective is to establish systematically lethal kill zones located 10 kilometers to 15 kilometers (about 6 miles to 9 miles) behind the Russian front line. Under its new commander, Maj. Robert Brovdi, the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces has launched a 100-day reform plan, which provides a blueprint for the next phase of Ukraines drone warfare. The plan seeks to better integrate various capabilities, including improved electronic warfare, electronic intelligence gathering, anti-drone systems, remote mining, mobile radar stations, and drone interceptors operating simultaneously. Most critically, it envisions more coordinated training and improved supply chains that can sustain the Ukrainian defensive system under combat conditions. Ukraine must accomplish three things quickly: scale up the use of fiber-optic drones, adapt the force structure to be able to scale up its own drone operations to attack Russian forces at various depths and en masse, and implement a systematic counter-drone system across the front line rather than uncoordinated efforts by each unit. The battle for the air littoral could reach a decisive phase in the coming months as Russia attempts to simultaneously attrite Ukrainian forces and seize as much terrain as possible. Ukraines current defensive system may be innovative, but it was designed for a different phase of the conflict, when Ukraines drone advantage was more pronounced. Russias systematic approach to drone warfare, epitomized by units such as Rubicon, threatens to neutralize these advantages entirely. Ukrainian soldiers operate drones in Kurakhove, Ukraine, on Jan. 16. Wolfgang Schwan/Anadolu via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The implications of losing superiority in the air littoral extend far beyond tactical inconvenience. As I observed in southern Donetsk, failure to control this domain threatens Ukraines entire defensive architecture. If Russia establishes decisive superiority in the air littoral, then Ukraine faces the prospect of cascading defensive failures across multiple fronts. The good news is that Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable adaptability throughout this conflict. The transformation to drone-centric defense in 2024 showed Ukrainian forces capacity for rapid, innovative responses to operational challenges. The question now is whether Ukraine can adapt once again by transitioning to a more systematic unmanned warfare. The battle for the air littoral may well determine whether Ukraine can maintain the current front lines or faces a fundamental shift in the wars trajectory. In this new war-fighting domain, what matters most is technological innovation, systematic organizational capacity to scale, and rapid adoption on the front line. Ukraines survival may depend on winning a contest that most military analysts had never even conceived of just a few years ago. A Ukrainian air defense unit fires at Russian drones near Lyman, Ukraine, on April 24. Jose Colon/Anadolu via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The significance, however, goes far beyond this war. The new capabilities that Ukraine and, belatedly, Russia are developing have accelerated a shift away from the exquisite precision strikes that have dominated Western military thinking since the 1990s toward what military analysts now term precision massthe ability to deliver accurate fires at unprecedented scale through inexpensive, expendable platforms. Unlike the surgical precision of expensive missiles fired from costly platforms, modern air littoral warfare employs swarms of cheap drones that can achieve tactically significant effects through sheer volume. This represents a cost revolution where Ukraine alone deploys thousands of drones monthly, creating what military theorists describe as attritable mass effects that render traditional weapons economics obsolete. The essence of this new war-fighting approach lies not in individual platform capability, but in the aggregate combat power generated by deploying hundredsand soon thousandsof good enough systems simultaneously across the battlespace, with piloted aircraft operating at higher altitudes. This fundamentally alters the arithmetic of air warfare from scarce, precious assets to abundant, expendable tools of war. Similarly far-reaching is the way that cheap precision mass has decoupled the air littoral from the domain of higher altitudes, where air superiority with manned aircraft no longer translates into control of the skies at low altitudes. Fighter jets may easily strike a traditional helicopter, but they cannot be used to hunt swarms of small drones out to attack artillery pieces and tanks. The sheer number of small, unmanned platforms in the air littoral would quickly exhaust the weapons systems of manned aircraft. Fighting two different wars in the air depending on the altitude marks a departure from traditional air superiority doctrine, where control of higher altitudes typically ensured dominance above the battlefield. Modern fighter aircraft optimized for combat beyond visual range find themselves largely irrelevant against swarms of small quadcopters operating below traditional engagement altitudes. Advanced fighters carrying air-to-air missiles cannot economically engage dozens of inexpensive drones simultaneously, creating what military analysts term cost-imposing asymmetries, where defense using available traditional systems becomes prohibitively expensive. Similarly, sophisticated radar systems capable of detecting targets at extreme ranges become tactically useless against small drones with minimal radar signatures operating in the electromagnetic clutter of the Earths surface. All of this fundamentally challenges Western air defense concepts and requires entirely new doctrinal approaches to the airspace during war. The worlds militaries will need to keep a close eye on the battlefield in Ukrainenot just to keep abreast of technology and tactics but also to get their heads around a new way of warfare. An Air Force command is pausing its use of a Sig Sauer pistol following a fatal incident. The M18, a military version of the P320, has come under new scrutiny. The handgun has been the subject of safety complaints and lawsuits. The Air Force command that oversees America's arsenal of long-range nuclear-capable bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles has decided to stop providing troops with Sig Sauer M18 pistols following a recent fatality. In a statement shared with Business Insider, AFGSC spokesperson Charles "Moose" Hoffman confirmed the pause, adding that the decision was made after the death of a Security Forces airman at the base on Sunday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Air Force Security Forces personnel are a military form of law enforcement and often work in base protection. "Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC Safety office," Hoffman wrote, adding that airmen will now carry their rifles only for the time being. "While the investigations are underway, AFGSC is collaborating with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to conduct a thorough review of the M18 and develop appropriate corrective measures," the statement said. Hoffman said that "Security Forces Combat Arms Airmen at all AFGSC bases will conduct 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety concerns." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Air Force did not specify whether a negligent discharge with the pistol caused the airman's death, saying only that the incident is under investigation and that "the discharge has not been categorized yet." Sig Sauer did not respond to BI's request for comment on the recent Air Force decision; however, it did post a statement online following publication. The M18 and M17 are military-specific variants of the P320 platform, which is also sold on the civilian market. The airman's death and AFGSC's decision to halt the use of the M18 come amid a history of reported safety issues associated with the P320-series weapons and their firing system. The handgun has been the subject of complaints and lawsuits in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michigan State Police, for instance, reported problems with the pistol in 2024 after one was fired while still holstered by a police officer, according to the military news outlet The War Zone. An FBI report detailing the incident said that in July 2024, the police officer's "department issued Sig Sauer M182 fired uncommanded," while holstered. "According to the MSP motor officer's statement and the statements of others present, at no time was the trigger pressed intentionally or inadvertently," the report stated, explaining that "the MSP motor officer had objects in his hands at the time." It said he was holding his keys. TWZ reported that incidents involving 'uncommanded' discharges have been associated with the P320 and its variants before. A recent lawsuit against the manufacturer was filed by a widow who alleged that her husband died last year after his P320 fired uncommanded. A 2023 joint investigation by The Washington Post and The Trace uncovered 100 similar incidents and found 80 people who said they were wounded by their gun's uncommanded discharge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other government and law enforcement agencies have sought to ban the weapon, but legal proceedings against Sig Sauer are poised to become more challenging for plaintiffs. The New Hampshire-based firearms company has successfully sought increased legal protections from the state's lawmakers amid the lawsuits filed in response to safety concerns, according to New Hampshire Public Radio. Read the original article on Business Insider JOHANNESBURG, July 23 (Xinhua) -- South Africa hosted the inaugural Global Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Ministerial Meeting at a time of mounting challenges for small businesses, marked by disrupted supply chains, shifting geopolitics, and rising protectionism, according to the country's business minister. "Global value chains are undergoing rapid changes, with rising trade protectionism posing a threat to markets for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), especially in developing and less developed countries," Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni said on Wednesday. Addressing the Global SME Ministerial Meeting in Johannesburg, Ndabeni noted that these challenges are having a direct impact on developing economies and emerging enterprises. Ndabeni said efforts are underway to enhance support for MSMEs in accessing markets and finance, and to position them as strategic actors in the global economy. "This is why we are advocating for the establishment of a dedicated G20 MSME and Startup Working Group, to be formally included in the G20 Declaration in November. Let this be one of the key legacies of our collective efforts," she said. Ndabeni said substantial work had been undertaken to support MSMEs in the lead-up to the meeting. She highlighted the vital role MSMEs play in driving economic growth and innovation, describing them as "engines of economies and incubators of innovation." The meeting, running from Tuesday to Thursday, is intended to empower participants with knowledge, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and promote the development of strategic partnerships at both bilateral and multilateral levels, in order to strengthen national MSME support ecosystems, Ndabeni said. Air Force Global Strike Command, which has purview over nuclear missiles and bombers that can carry nuclear weapons, has suspended using the M18 pistol until further notice following the death of an airman earlier this month when such a pistol discharged, said Charles Hoffman, a command spokesperson. Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC [Air Force Global Strike Command] Safety office, Hoffman told Task & Purpose. During this period, Security Forces Airmen will be equipped with the M4 rifle, ensuring no lapse in AFGSCs security posture. Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, who leads the Global Strike Command, announced in a July 21 memo that has been shared on social media that the command would temporarily stop using the M18 for both training and operations. Hoffman confirmed that the memo is authentic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move was prompted by the July 20 death of a Security Forces airman at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, Hoffman said. Air Force officials announced the fatal incident in a July 21 news release, which did not include any specific information about how the airman was killed. The command is currently working with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to conduct a thorough review of the M18 pistol and develop appropriate corrective measures, Hoffman said. Security Forces Combat Arms airmen, who are tasked with teaching airmen and Space Force Guardians how to properly operate and maintain firearms, will also conduct inspections of the M18 pistols at all the commands bases to identify any immediate safety concerns, service officials said. Sig Sauer makes the P-320 series pistols that include the M18. The company issued a statement on Wednesday saying it is working with the Army and Air Force to answer any questions they might have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our hearts are with the service members and families affected by the recent reported event at the F.E. Warren Air Force base, the statement says. We proactively offered assistance to the U.S. Military as they investigate the incident and remain willing to help in furtherance of their ongoing inquiry. Top Stories This Week News The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks By Matt White News Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad By Matt White News A Marine general will command the Naval Academy for the first time A Marine general will command the Naval Academy for the first time By Matt White The War Zone first reported on Tuesday that Global Strike Command had issued the pause using the M18 pistol. The M18 pistol is a compact variant of the Armys Modular Handgun System, which all the military branches have adopted as their standard sidearms since 2017. The pistols replaced the M9, which first entered service in 1985. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the pistols had several problems during testing, according to a 2020 Defense Department report, which found that the handguns could accidentally fire when dropped. An Army spokesperson told Task & Purpose at the time that the discharge issue had been corrected. More recently, an FBI report into a July 31, 2024 incident in which a Michigan state troopers M18 went off while the weapon was holstered found that it may be possible for the handgun to discharge without its trigger being pulled under a specific set of circumstances. Jason St. John, senior director of strategic products for Sig Sauers Defense Strategies Group, recently told The War Zone that the FBIs tests were flawed, and that its own testing contradicts the FBIs findings. Sig Sauer continues to have full faith in the P320, St. John said. Due to the FBI manually manipulating the P320 sear improperly, Sig Sauer refutes the initial results. UPDATE: 07/23/2025; this story was updated with a statement from Sig Sauer. The commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, has ordered the immediate pause of Sig Sauers M18 pistol operations across the Air Force major command. A memo issued July 21, 2025, also orders that the M4 carbine be issued in place of the M18. Moreover, the memo notes that AFGSC is actively collaborating with Air Force Security Forces Center to conduct a comprehensive review. It specifies that these actions are in response to a recent incident at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Air Force memo That same day, 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs at Warren published a release confirming the death of a 90th Security Forces Squadron airman while on duty on July 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply saddened by the loss of a valued member of our Mighty Ninety team, said Col. Terry Holmes, 90th Missile Wing commander, in the release. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the Airmans family, friends, and his fellow Defenders during this incredibly difficult time. The Safariland holster can be removed from the mount via the Quick Locking System. (U.S. Air Force) Reports from airmen at Warren say a Security Forces airman removed his issued Safariland holster from his leg mount with the M18 still inside, and placed it on a table. Those same reports allege that the M18 fired while holstered and struck the airman in the chest and that the unidentified airman did not survive the wound. A person familiar with the situation who spoke on the condition of anonymity confirmed that the incident took place in a secure nuclear weapons facility inside Warren. The AFGSC memo requires 100% inspections of wing-assigned M18 weapon systems. Redditors then released emails stating that the U.S. Air Force Europe is reportedly considering taking similar action and replacing M18s with M9 pistols. While, if confirmed, this would be the first reported death of a military service member, it is not the first time a Sig Sauer M18 has experienced an uncommanded discharge. The M17 and M18 pistols, based on the Sig Sauer P320, are used across the Department of Defense. (U.S. Navy) In 2023, a Marine Corps-issued M18 fired while holstered at Camp Foster, Japan. A subsequent investigation concluded that the M18 was not mishandled, and the investigator recommended that an engineering review of the pistol be performed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outside of the military, the M18 and the Sig Sauer P320 from which it is derived have come under scrutiny from law enforcement agencies. Multiple departments, including the Chicago Police Department, have banned the P320 for their officers. At the federal level, the Department of Homeland Security banned the P320 for use by ICE agents, and an FBI report found instances of a Minnesota State Police M18 firing without the trigger being pulled. We Are The Mighty reached out to the 90th Missile Wing and Sig Sauer for further comment. Jason Wright, Sig Sauers Vice-President of Marketing, provided the following response: Our hearts are with the service members and families impacted by the recently reported event at the F.E. Warren Air Force Base. We have offered our assistance to the U.S. Military and the U.S. Air Force as they investigate the incident and remain willing to help in furtherance of their ongoing investigation. The 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs Office was unable to provide details beyond the July 21st press release due to the ongoing investigation into the airmans death. However, they did note that a follow-up press release is in progress and will be sent out as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Editors Note: This story was updated to include a response from Sig Sauer and the 90th Missile Wing. Sidewinder loading Navy The Navy is spending $1.1 billion on the most successful air-to-air missile in the world By Miguel Ortiz robot bomb remote control tank History These robot bombs and remote-control tanks almost made it to combat These robot bombs and remote-control tanks almost made it to combat By Bethaney Phillips Massive ordnance penetrator Aviation The Massive Ordnance Penetrator is a 30,000-pound bunker buster bomb The Massive Ordnance Penetrator is a 30,000-pound bunker buster bomb By Miguel Ortiz The ArmaLite in Irish music isnt the AR-15 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weapons The ArmaLite in Irish music isnt the AR-15 The ArmaLite in Irish music isnt the AR-15 By Miguel Ortiz EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- A pilot from the 416th Flight Test Squadron successfully fires the newest variant of the AIM-9 Sidewinder for the first time from an F-16 Fighting Falcon on April 9. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tom Reynolds) Feature Raytheon awarded $736M contract for AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles Raytheon awarded $736M contract for AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles By Miguel Ortiz The crew of the B-52 Bomber that had a near miss with a Skywest Airlines passenger jet last week was never informed of the incoming aircraft, according to the Air Force. On the evening of July 18, Minot Air Force Base was preparing to conduct a flyover at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot, per a statement released by public affairs. The special event was to recognize Minot as a Great American Defense Community, The demonstration was planned in advance and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). At approximately 7:43 p.m., seven minutes before the scheduled flyover, the B-52 crew was instructed to contact Minot International Airports air traffic control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tower provided instructions to continue 2 miles westbound after the flyover, the bases statement said. The tower did not advise of the inbound commercial aircraft. Getty A B-52 Bomber plane A B-52 Bomber plane The commercial aircraft, a Skywest flight, was forced to make an "aggressive maneuver," per the pilot, to avoid a collision with the military aircraft, PEOPLE previously reported. The FAA, who is investigating the incident, told PEOPLE on July 23 that the air traffic services were provided by the Minot air traffic control tower, which is run by a private company, adding. These controllers are not FAA employees. According to the department, about half of all federal air traffic control towers are run by private contracted companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A viral TikTok from onboard the Skywest plane recorded the pilots reassurance to terrified passengers that all was well after crews needed to make the maneuver. "For those of you on the right-hand side, you probably saw the airplane kind of coming at us, the pilot said during the flight from Minneapolis to Minot. Nobody told us about it, and so we continued. There's no radar here, so the tower does everything visually." The pilot informed passengers he was instructed by the towers to turn right, but then he saw an oncoming airplane. Then he was instructed to turn the opposite direction. Getty Two pilots operate an airplane from the cockpit. Two pilots operate an airplane from the cockpit. Sorry about the aggressive maneuver, it caught me by surprise, he said in the clip. This is not normal at all. I dont know why they didnt give us a heads up, because the airport base does have radar. And nobody said, 'Hey, there's also a B-52 in the pattern.' " 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. Long story short, it was not fun, he added. I do apologize for it and thank you for understanding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skywest confirmed the incident and shared a statement with PEOPLE on Sunday, July 20. SkyWest flight 3788, operating as Delta Connection from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Minot, North Dakota on July 18, landed safely in Minot after being cleared for approach by the tower but performed a go-around when another aircraft became visible in their flight path, a spokesperson for the airline said. Read the original article on People London The families of some British victims of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad have discovered that remains repatriated to the U.K. were wrongly identified as being their loved ones, a lawyer who says his firm is representing over 20 victims' families told CBS News. Of the 242 people on board the Air India flight from Ahmedabad to London's Gatwick airport that crashed on June 12 just minutes after takeoff, 52 were British citizens. The cause of the crash has not been confirmed, but a preliminary report released earlier this month by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau found that cockpit cutoff switches for fuel supply to both of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner's engines had been switched, one after another, within one second, leading to both engines losing thrust. James Healy-Pratt, an aviation lawyer who said he was representing a number of U.K. families, told CBS News the remains of at least 12 British victims of the crash had been repatriated to the U.K., but that two of them had been misidentified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There was one family who believed they had accompanied their loved one back from India, having gone out there to give DNA for the identification, and then (when they returned to the U.K.) were informed that the remains in the casket were nothing to do with them," Healy-Pratt told CBS News. Forensic experts and DGCA officials searching for evidence at Air India Plane crash site, June 13, 2025, in Ahmedabad, India. / Credit: Raju Shinde/Hindustan Times/Getty Healy-Pratt said the mistakes were discovered when the Inner West London coroner, Dr. Fiona Wilcox, sought to verify the victims' identities by matching their DNA to samples provided by the families. "The first two caskets that arrived into the country Dr. Wilcox and her team, assiduous as always, decided to check the verification and identity, and they discovered that DNA had been commingled in one of the caskets, which wasn't related to the person in the casket or the other person," Healy-Pratt said. Healy-Pratt said the family of one of the victims had to cancel funeral plans after being told the remains they thought belonged to their loved one were actually those of an unknown individual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a double psychological trauma. It's one thing to lose a loved one, but then you go to India, you sit in a hotel, you give your DNA, you pray to God that there'll be a DNA match. You're then told there is. You're assured everything's fine and certified. You come back, and then you're told either there's more remains in the casket than just your loved one, or there are no remains, in spite of having been certified, and we don't know who this is," Healy-Pratt told CBS News. Indian officials cited by local media soon after the crash said that, given the level of the destruction at the site and the extent to which the wreckage was burned, DNA testing would be required to confirm the final death toll from both the plane and from the buildings at the site in Ahmedabad. "We have seen the report and have been working closely with the U.K. side from the moment these concerns and issues were brought to our attention," Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Shri Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement Wednesday. "In the wake of the tragic crash, the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements. All mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased. We are continuing to work with the U.K. authorities on addressing any concerns related to this issue." Healy-Pratt said the statement from the Indian Foreign Ministry statement was "simply not good enough." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It lacks specifics. It lacks any detailed explanation of the chain of custody of the remains from the time of identification to DNA matching to placing in caskets. It lacks any assurances that there may be remains, whether mislabeled, unidentified or identified, still in India," he said. "The families want to draw a line under their emotional distress that's come out from this and so that requires detailed hard work by the Indian authorities to provide assurances that there are no further remains of British nationals either unidentified, identified or mislabeled, misidentified in India. And the line will not be drawn until that cast iron assurance is provided. And at the moment, it's not forthcoming," he said. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are set to meet in London this week, and Healy-Pratt said he hoped this issue would make it onto their agenda. Healy-Pratt also said that, in addition to seeking the remains of their loved ones, the British families want to know the cause of the Air India crash, so their lawyers are independently investigating. The families, Healy-Pratt said, want to make sure any safety recommendations that come from formal probes are implemented internationally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And then finally, they want financial justice," Healy-Pratt said. He said the families' legal team had "already made an approach to the lawyers for Air India in London, and we're progressing claims there in the High Court. And we'll also be filing an action against Boeing in the U.S. courts to get more information about these fuel control cutoff switches, because they do have a checkered history." Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 What to expect from Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing on Idaho student murders case The hidden risk of license plate scanners on the road Authorities in India sent the wrong remains to some British families whose loved ones were killed in a plane crash last month, their lawyer has claimed, as relatives reckoned with the human cost of the worlds deadliest aviation accident in a decade. At least two UK nationals were discovered to have been misidentified after they were repatriated, according to James Healy-Pratt, an international aviation lawyer who is representing some of the British relatives of victims. In one case, a coroner in London discovered that the DNA of several bodies had been co-mingled in one of the caskets, Healy-Pratt told UK news agency PA Media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr Fiona Shaw picked up DNA anomalies when the bodies were first repatriated, Healy-Pratt said. My understanding was that the co-mingling was at the very beginning, which alerted Dr Wilcox to the fact that she had to be 100% assiduous about checking the identification of the incoming remains, the lawyer added. She was then able to determine that one particular loved one was not at all who the family thought they were, said Healy-Pratt. All but one of 242 passengers and crew members were killed on June 12, after an Air India jet lost momentum and hurtled into a densely populated neighborhood in Ahmedabad, western India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The London-bound aircraft had barely left the runway of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport before it spun out of control and nosedived into the BJ Medical College and Hospital hostel also killing 19 people on the ground. Authorities have not yet released the definitive cause of the crash, but a preliminary report suggested that the fuel control switches in the cockpit of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner had been flipped, depriving the engines of power. In an audio recording from the black box, one of the pilots is heard asking the other why he flipped the switches, according to the assessment by Indias Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau published last week. The other pilot responds that he did not. Moments later, the switches were flipped to turn the fuel supply back on. Both engines relit and one began to progress to recovery, but it was too late to halt the planes tumultuous descent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of those killed on board, at least 169 were Indian nationals, seven were Portuguese and one was from Canada. The only survivor was Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, one of 53 UK passengers that day who told local media that he escaped by clinging onto a small space near the door by his seat. Deeply troubled The relatives of three victims said they were deeply troubled by the revelations on Wednesday, calling on authorities to act with care, co-ordination and respect. Recent developments have only confirmed what many feared: that serious mistakes may have been made, and that the dignity and rights of victims and their families were not safeguarded as they should have been, they said in a statement. The relatives of Akeel Nanabawa, his wife Hannaa Vorajee and their four-year-old daughter Sara Nanabawa added that while they are confident they received the correct bodies - they were still deeply troubled by what this means for other families who may still be searching for certainty and closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt just a personal tragedy; it is a collective one. Indias foreign ministry had been working closely with the UK side from the moment these concerns and issues were raised, according to a spokesperson. Authorities conducted identification of victims using established protocols and technical requirements, foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X on Wednesday. All mortal remains were handled with the utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased, Jaiswal added. We are continuing to work with the UK authorities on addressing any concerns related to this issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case came on the heels of a meeting in London between Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, as the two nations sign a landmark free trade agreement. Healy-Pratt, who is demanding financial justice for the families, said he believes the allegations will be on the agenda for the talks this week. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Al Jazeera Media Network has urgently called upon the journalistic community, press freedom organisations, and relevant legal bodies to take decisive action to halt the forced starvation and crimes against journalists and media professionals in Gaza. For more than 21 months, the Israeli bombardment and the systematic starvation of the nearly two million people of Gaza have pushed an entire population to the brink of survival. The journalists on the ground, who have courageously reported on this ongoing genocide, have risked their lives and the safety of their families to shed light on these atrocities. However, they now find themselves fighting for their own survival. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 19, Al Jazeera journalists began posting heart-wrenching messages on social media, signalling that their capacity to continue was waning. One powerful post by Anas al-Shariff, Al Jazeera Arabic channel correspondent in Gaza, stated, I havent stopped covering for a moment in 21 months, and today, I say it outright And with indescribable pain. I am drowning in hunger, trembling in exhaustion, and resisting the fainting that follows me every moment Gaza is dying. And we die with it. As these brave journalists continue to document the harrowing realities in Gaza, they are often overlooked, reduced to mere informants rather than being acknowledged as witnesses to their own stories. Mostefa Souag, director general of Al Jazeera Media Network, commenting on the plight of journalists in Gaza, stated, We owe it to the courageous journalists in Gaza to amplify their voices and put an end to the unbearable suffering they are enduring due to forced starvation and targeted killings by Israeli occupation forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The journalistic community and the world bear an immense responsibility; it is our duty to raise our voices and mobilise all available means to support our colleagues in this noble profession. If we fail to act now, we risk a future where there may be no one left to tell our stories. Our inaction will be recorded in history as a monumental failure to protect our fellow journalists and a betrayal of the principles that every journalist strives to uphold, he added. Since October 2023, Israeli forces have killed five Al Jazeera journalists Samer Abudaqa, Hamza Dahdouh, Ismail al-Ghoul, Ahmed al-Louh, and Hossam Shabat and many of the family members of Al Jazeera and other journalists. Yet, these courageous journalists, along with their colleagues, refuse to succumb to the threats and pressure tactics employed by the Israeli authorities to silence them. Submission to such intimidation would have resulted in an almost total blackout of coverage of the ongoing genocide, forced starvation, and crimes against humanity inflicted upon the civilian population of Gaza. Al Jazeera Media Network calls for immediate action by concerned international organisations to bring an end to this forced starvation that does not spare journalists who are the bearers of truth. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) S-Town, a podcast that put Woodstock, Alabama on the map and became one of the post popular limited-series podcasts in history, has been celebrated by TIME magazine as one of the best podcasts of all time. The podcast, hosted by reporter Brian Reed, delved into the life of John B. McLemore, a horologist and local eccentric, as well as the people within his orbit, such as his mother, his friend Tyler Goodson and Woodstock Mayor Jeff Dodson. Initially pitched as a murder mystery, S-Town quickly pivots to a more intimate story about the lifeand deathof a singular but troubled man named John B. McLemore, TIME correspondent Eliana Dockterman wrote in the list, dissecting the 100 best podcasts in history. McLemore lives in a tiny town, which he dubs Sh-t Town, hence the title of the show. Host Brian Reed develops an obsession with McLemore only to find out partway through reporting his podcast that the man has passed away. It turns out McLemore harbored many secrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement S-Town ran for seven episodes that were released on March 28, 2017. The show immediately found an audience and became wildly popular, winning a Peabody Award the following year and at one point was being optioned as a feature film. While many critics praised the show for the colorful people that made up Woodstock, others took issue with Reed disclosing certain aspects of McLemores personal life after his death. Its a theme Reed explored in the first episode of his new podcast, Question Everything, which puts a unique lens on how the media covers stories in the digital age. Although S-Town was a limited series, many of the people featured in the show had their own stories long after the show. In 2017, Goodson pleaded guilty to taking different things off McLemores property that he claimed were left to him after he died. Goodson was killed in a standoff with police in 2023. In 2018, McLemores estate sued S-Town over claims that they profited off him and used his likeness without his consent since he had died by the time the show premiered. The case was later settled out of court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Wednesday, the show has been downloaded over 100 million times. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 sign for the Public Broadcasting Service, or PBS, is seen on its building headquarters on Feb. 18, 2025, in Arlington, Virginia. Congress cut over $1 billion from PBS' budget, which will affect public broadcasting in Alabama. (Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images) Public media outlets across Alabama are bracing for cuts after Congress last week approved over $1 billion in cuts to previously approved funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in House Resolution 4. Outlets such as Alabama Public Television (APT) and WLRH Public Radio in Huntsville both said this bill will put financial hardship on the stations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effect of the cuts on the entities is not clear. In a 2023 financial statement, APT reported it received $2.4 million from CPB that year, out of total revenue of about $23.3 million. WLRH reported receiving over $120,000 from CPB, out of total revenue of about $1.5 million. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In a LinkedIn post on Saturday, WLRH said the newly approved cuts can harm stations in rural areas even more. While this presents a challenge to WLRH and hundreds of stations nationwide, smaller and more rural stations could go darkpermanently, the post said. Wayne Reid, executive director for APT, said in a statement despite cuts the station will continue to keep Alabamians informed through unbiased and factual reporting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement APT will continue to provide emergency broadcast services for weather events, public safety alerts, and law enforcement notificationsensuring that the citizens of Alabama stay informed and protected, he said. Wayne also said Alabamians will still be able to get local and state government news from APT as well. In addition, our trusted Capitol Journal program will continue to provide in-depth, nonpartisan coverage of state and local government, keeping viewers informed about key issues and decisions from the Statehouse that directly impact their lives. WLRH also said in a statement on their website it will continue to provide programming for their listeners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WLRH will continue its mission to provide high-quality programming that informs, inspires, and connects North Alabama. Our listeners can count on us to deliver thoughtful, locally produced programs alongside trusted national content, the website said. The approved resolution cuts $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and an additional $8 billion from a variety of foreign aid programs including global health initiatives. As the newly approved budget cuts head to the presidents desk, national public media outlets have published statements urging audiences to continue giving their support. NPR President and CEO Katherine Maher said in a statement while the rescission bill targets NPR and PBS, local communities will be hit the hardest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of defunding are fixated on NPR and PBS, but in reality the cuts will be felt where these services are needed most. Stations in places like West Virginia, and those serving tribal nations, receive more than 50% of their budget from federal funding, the statement reads. Public radio provides local programming that would otherwise be unavailable coverage of town councils, statehouse affairs, local elections, and local music. Maher said the bill doesnt serve the American people and without public media, rural communities will be greatly affected by the loss of public media if stations have to close due to lack of funding. This vote is an unwarranted dismantling of beloved local civic institutions, and an act of Congress that disregards the public will. Two-thirds of Americans support federal funding for public media, and believe that it is a good value for taxpayer dollars, she wrote. Despite promises from some Members of Congress to fix anything the bill breaks, this will be an irreversible loss. If a station doesnt survive this sudden turn by Congress, a vital stitch in our American fabric will be gone for good. Britains leading artificial intelligence (AI) institute has scrapped a key diversity scheme after coming under pressure from ministers. The research initiative from The Alan Turing Institute, which last year was handed 100m in taxpayer funding, had aimed to get more women into science and promote equity in the data science and AI fields. However, the programme has now been axed following a review by the organisations board amid calls for it to focus increasingly on defence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision means the institute will no longer have a mandate to investigate diversity and inclusion in online and physical workplace cultures, while it will also end inquiries into how social bias risks being built into machine learning systems. It comes just days after Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, urged the institute to reform. The move comes after Peter Kyle, the Technology Secretary, urged the institute to focus more on defence and national security - Julian Simmonds for The Telegraph In a letter to Doug Gurr, the former Amazon executive who is now chairman of the organisations board of trustees, Mr Kyle said it must evolve and adapt to prioritise its defence, national security and sovereign capabilities. Drift from core mission Originally launched by David Cameron in 2015, the institute has come under growing scrutiny after it was awarded the 100m government funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, a report from British Progress argued the organisation had lost its way and needed major reform. The think tank said the institute had a fragmented and thinly spread research portfolio and that it had been susceptible to mission creep. The report added: The most significant example of this has been its drift away from its core technical mission toward work rooted in social and political critique. British Progress warned that, if it failed to reform, there would be grounds to decommission the institute entirely. While the institute has made moves towards reforming its research, its staff have also criticised its allegedly chaotic management and a lack of diversity in senior roles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, more than 180 staff signed a letter questioning its decision to hire four top male academics, as they criticised a trend of limited diversity within the institutes senior scientific leadership. In December, The Telegraph reported that external consultants had raised concerns from staff about tokenism and nepotism at the institute, warning of pervasive issues of low morale. That month, staff also sent a no-confidence letter to its leadership team and board, warning it had been left rudderless. The scrapping of the gender representation scheme comes amid a wider retreat across the technology sector, with many businesses rowing back on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies after Donald Trumps return to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The institute was named after the Second World War computer scientist Alan Turing, who was persecuted for his homosexuality. The organisation is named after Second World War computer scientist Alan Turing, pictured here at 16 - Alamy The mathematician, who died in 1954, led Britains codebreakers at Bletchley Park and helped to design a machine to crack Nazi Germanys Enigma messages. Yet in recent years, the institute has been dogged by concerns that it missed out on the emergence of a new wave of technology. In 2023, a report from the Tony Blair Institute argued it had not kept the UK at the cutting edge of international AI developments. A spokesman for the institute said it was in the process of reviewing 100 projects, two of which had been axed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They added: Were shaping a new phase for the institute focused on delivering real-world impact against societys biggest challenges and will respond to the national need to double down on our work in defence, national security and sovereign capabilities. 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 study has shown that destructive weather patterns are causing massive strain on the California home insurance market, according to InsuranceNewsNet. What's happening? California has been battered by catastrophic wildfires in recent years, leaving properties and lives in shambles. Direct air capture company Deep Sky has released findings showing that one in five homes in the most extreme fire risk areas of California have lost insurance coverage since 2019. Many insurance companies pulled coverage just months before the record-setting Palisades fires in January 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The home insurance market is in a state of crisis. The highest risk areas of California have effectively become uninsurable and will soon become unaffordable," said the report. "Banks will not approve mortgages without home insurance, and few will buy a house without a mortgage (in a high risk wildfire area no less). Without significant policy intervention, these properties will eventually become worthless." Why is home insurance important? "We are in a statewide insurance crisis, affecting millions of Californians," said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, per InsuranceNewsNet. "Taking this on requires tough decisions. This is not a game." This sentiment has been shared by the U.S. Senate Budget Committee, which has projected that climate shifts will prompt a housing market crash worse than the one in 2008. What's being done about home insurance hikes? Wildfire season has begun in the state, and solutions are hard to find. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "California is just entering the worst phase of its crisis," said Diane Delaney, executive director of the Private Risk Management Association, per InsuranceNewsNet. "Regulatory limitations have made it difficult for insurers to adjust pricing or expand capacity in high-risk areas." While California has a state-backed insurer of last resort, the amount of risk they're able to be exposed to is limited. Florida has attempted several reforms, which have included financial support for insurers, but homeowner rates have continued to rise despite the "corporate welfare." 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. YAOUNDE, July 23 (Xinhua) -- At least 178 rebels in the Central African Republic (CAR) have laid down their weapons and surrendered since July 13, an official of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) said on Wednesday. Florence Marchal, spokesperson for MINUSCA, said two sites are currently hosting the ex-rebels: one in Maloum, Ouaka prefecture, and the other in the Koui region of Ouham-Pende prefecture. "In Maloum, 112 former combatants of the UPC (Union for Peace in the CAR) armed group have been disarmed and demobilized since Sunday, July 13, while 100 individual and collective weapons and ammunition have been handed over," Marchal told a press conference in MINUSCA headquarters in Bangui, the CAR's capital. "In Koui, 66 former combatants of the 3R (Return, Reclamation and Rehabilitation) armed group have been disarmed and demobilized since July 18, and 51 weapons have been collected," she added. According to Marchal, the disarmament process was made possible after leaders of the UPC and the 3R rebel groups signed a peace agreement and announced the dissolution of their respective rebel groups, pledging to participate in the country's peace and reconciliation process. The UPC and 3R were among six rebel groups that founded the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) in 2020. The coalition was formed with the objective of toppling President Faustin-Archange Touadera after his re-election for a second term. The CPC was led by former CAR President Francois Bozize, who is currently in exile. Jul. 23An Albert Lea man was sentenced Tuesday to five years and five months in prison after receiving a package with cocaine in February 2024. Freeborn County District Court Judge Ross Leuning found Juan Manuel Mendez, 48, guilty of one count of first-degree drug possession, involving more than 50 grams of cocaine, after a court trial in May. Evidence in the trial showed that a narcotics detective at the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport flagged the package at the airport, which was in a Walmart-branded box with tape sealing its seams and was scheduled for UPS next-day air shipping. It came from an address in Harlingen, Texas, and the detective found other discrepancies on the printed label, court documents state. It was ultimately alerted to by a certified drug dog at the airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After receiving a search warrant for the box, the detective opened it and found a NorthFace jacket that had bundles sewn into its interior containing a total of 1.365 pounds of cocaine. The detective reportedly repackaged one of the bundles, weighing 114 grams, into the jacket in the original packaging, and then another detective disguised as a UPS driver brought the package to Mendez's house in Albert Lea. After the delivery, a South Central Drug Investigative Unit agent knocked on his door and arrested him. The box was found tucked into a closet. Mendez had multiple explanations of his handling of the box and why he placed it in his closet, which the judge found to be not credible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If he truly believed the package was for someone else in the house, tucking it away in his closet out of sight from all before anyone else could glimpse it is nonsensical," the judge found. He found it was also unreasonable that the drugs were sent to Mendez's address by mistake, given the price of the drugs and the sophistication with which they were shipped. Court records state the drugs were valued up to $60,000. Mendez' lawyer argued his client be sent to probation, stating he was amenable to treatment and had not had any prior felony convictions. Darlena Williams-Burnett, the wife of Ald. Walter Burnett, who is the front-runner to be the next Chicago Housing Authority CEO, violated the housing authoritys ethics policy when employed by the agency in 2022, according to documents obtained through a Tribune public records request. Williams-Burnett serves as the chair of the Chicago Intellect political action committee and did not disclose the position to CHA, a violation of the Hatch Act the federal law that restricts the political activity of some government workers and a component of CHAs ethics policy. It is our conclusion that (Williams-)Burnett violated the Ethics Policy in her false and intentional denial of holding any position with the PAC or knowing anything of its activity, said the CHA ethics officer in an April 2022 email to then-CHA CEO Tracey Scott, the human resources director and inspector general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ethics officer cited the CHA ethics policy that stated if any employee fails to provide documents or information requested by the Ethics Officer, or who furnishes false or misleading information to the Ethics Officer with the intent to mislead, shall be subject to removal from office, employment sanctions, or the cancellation of contract rights. Williams-Burnett, who had been deputy chief of fleet and facilities in CHAs general services department, had already informed the housing authority of her planned June 2022 resignation in February of that same year. She now works as a real estate agent, according to her LinkedIn profile. We had called our lawyers and our lawyers said she didnt violate anything, Burnett told the Tribune Wednesday, adding that he also spoke with then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot. She never got any paperwork or anything in regards to that, just a conversation, that was it. Burnett said his wife had already planned to retire at the time. He said his lawyers told him recently that his wife should resign from her position on the PAC in the event that he does get CHAs top job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams-Burnett did not respond to a Tribune request for comment and Burnett said his wife declined to comment. CHA said it could not comment on personnel matters. Related Articles During her eight-year CHA tenure, Williams-Burnett also received a written reprimand from the chief operations officer for missing a meeting where she was scheduled to brief board members on an upcoming board meeting agenda item. She was unreachable shortly after the meetings start time and when later asked to explain her absence said she just missed it, according to the written reprimand. Williams-Burnett was then instructed on corrective actions, including ensuring her availability for meetings, having alternative arrangements in the event that she was unavailable to attend meetings and answering her work phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PAC was created in 2018. The groups purpose, per the Illinois State Board of Elections, is to promote and support organizations that advance and protect the interests of the citizens of Chicago. In the last election cycle, the group donated to various aldermen. Burnett, 27th, will resign from the City Council where he represents a West Side ward spanning some of the richest and poorest neighborhoods at the end of the month. He has expressed deep interest in taking the helm at CHA. The Tribune first reported June 28 that Burnett was a candidate for the position. ekane@chicagotribune.com HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) A suspect believed to be involved in a burglary in Rome, Indiana was arrested after a chase in Missouri. The sheriffs office says Gerald Weddle was taken into custody in Cooper County. Authorities say Weddle was on parole for burglaries and thefts throughout southern Indiana and Kentucky after being released from federal prison. He is awaiting extradition to Indiana where officials state he will face theft and burglary charges. Advertisement 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). The Department of Defense awarded Altus Public Schools a $49.2 million grant Wednesday to build a new elementary school at Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma. The federal funding represents 80% of the total project cost of $61.5 million for L. Mendel Rivers Elementary School. The massive investment addresses critical infrastructure needs at a school serving more than 600 military-connected children from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. The facility ranked 55th on the Pentagons 2019 priority list for schools with the most serious deficiencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant is awarded through the Defense Departments Public Schools on Military Installations Program, which targets schools with urgent capacity and facility needs. The Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation administered the award after extensive federal review. A multi-agency evaluation team assessed the project proposal to ensure it properly addresses the schools documented deficiencies. Representatives from the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Local Defense Community Cooperation offices participated in the review process. Pentagon officials frame the investment as essential for military readiness and retention. Quality schools help bases recruit and keep skilled personnel while strengthening ties between installations and surrounding communities. The aging L. Mendel Rivers Elementary School has struggled with both overcrowding and deteriorating facilities. The new construction will replace outdated infrastructure while providing modern learning spaces for students whose parents serve at the air base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altus Air Force Base hosts the 97th Air Mobility Wing (AMW), which trains aircrew members for C-17, KC-46, and KC-135 aircraft. The installations mission makes retention of experienced personnel particularly critical for national defense. If our families are taken care of, Airmen can feel free and comfortable doing the mission that they are charged to do, said Col. Jeff Marshall, former 97th AMW commander. Were very excited that the new building is going to have a storm shelter, Roe Worbes, Altus Public Schools superintendent, said in a news release. A cafeteria much larger than this one, a media center that is going to meet all of our needs, and science, technology, engineering, and math classrooms much larger than what we already have. The schoolhouse, which is slated for completion within the next two to three years, will be shaped like the U.S. Air Force symbol. Some American Airlines passengers might see changes at the airport, as the airline canceled some routes for August. The airline has been canceling hundreds of flights out of O'Hare Airport in Chicago, according to AZ Central. American Airlines' routes were crunched by a site called Cirium, which found that "more than 80 routes out of O'Hare will operate with fewer flights and/or fewer seats starting in August," AZ Central reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The route between O'Hare and Phoenix was especially affected, with 30 fewer flights, according to AZ Central. American "canceled about 800 flights scheduled for August between Chicago O'Hare and other airports, representing a loss of about 76,000 seats," AZ Central reported, citing the Cirium data. American Airlines Offers Context However, the airline touts the number of daily flights it still offers. "American has not made any recent adjustments to its flight schedules for August. We are proud to offer up to 6,700 daily flights, more than any other airline, to help connect travelers to their next vacation before the summer season starts to wind down," the airline told Men's Journal in an email on July 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The key word in American Airlines' statement is "recent." In May, the airline cut at least 70 routes, with the changes going into effect in August. However, the airline offers some context. "Americans approach to network and schedule planning is consistent with industry practices. A placeholder schedule is published 331 days in advance and then adjustments are made closer in based on the schedule we intend to operate," a spokesperson for American Airlines told Men's Journal. "We publish our final schedule approximately 100 days in advance. American is proud to offer customers the largest network of any U.S. airline, with up to 6,700 daily departures," the airline noted. "In August: American offers up to nine flights per day between PHX and ORD, twice as many as our closest competitor who offers only four daily flights on that route." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They continued, "We also want to emphasize that there is no customer impact as a result of these changes as the changes were made several months prior. This year alone weve added more than 20 new routes from Chicago including the only nonstop from Chicago to Naples, Italy (NAP) the gateway to Italys picturesque Amalfi coast and have added new flights to Spain and more flights to popular destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America (including recent additions of Mexico City and Queretaro)." The most affected cities were "Detroit, Newark, Phoenix, Cleveland and Albuquerque," AZ Central reported. All the same, American will operate 16.5% more weekly flights out of Chicago-O'Hare in August. It's an aviation trend. According to Travel and Tour World, other airlines have also announced "drastic reductions" to their flights and routes starting in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement United, JetBlue, and Avelo were the airlines listed. "These adjustments come as a result of shifting demand patterns, economic pressures, and operational constraints," the site reported. Cirium also analyzes airlines for their on-time percentages. Aeromexico performed best in that review. "Mexicos flag carrier topped the global category, followed by Saudia, and Delta Air Lines," Cirium wrote. Related: Another Airline Takes Clear Shot At Southwest, Offers Free Bags American Airlines Cancels Hundreds of Flights for August first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 Stacks of boxes holding cards and letters are seen at the U.S. Post Office sort center. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) The president of the countrys postal union is sounding the alarm on privatization of the service. And in Montana, some residents might soon start seeing TV commercials from the American Postal Workers Union seeking to alert the public of privatization attempts of the service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ad campaign, which is in eight states, follows a Wells Fargo Equity Research document to investors which includes plans to close post offices as well as higher prices for those using the service. It also includes an end to the Universal Service Obligation, which is essential that all postal users receive a minimum level of service at a reasonable price and requires six day-per-week mail delivery. There is an intensified effort really coming from the billionaires and Wall Street about privatizing the public United States Postal Service, APWU president Mark Dimondstein said in an interview with the Daily Montanan. Which means either breaking it up in whole or piecemealing it out whole or in part to private companies that then decide who gets mail under what conditions, based on whether somebody can make a profit. The document from Wells Fargo details five steps that would need to be taken in order for the service to be privatized, starting with new legislation. It would take a Congressional Act and signage by the president for that to happen, the document states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The document also said that $400 billion in pension and healthcare liabilities need to be addressed. The USPS did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Our sense is these liabilities would likely be moved to another entity (likely to the US taxpayer where they arguably are now) since potential buyers and/or investors would be reluctant to assume such a large legacy liability, but could be addressed through a parcel sale/IPO or real estate monetization, the document states. The Postal Service is currently funded by its own revenue. Other steps outlined in the report include employees losing jobs. Especially amid recent DOGE efforts on federal cost control, it is likely that employees receive a type of deferred buyout offer to leave or layoffs could ensue, the report says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also said the USPS would need to raise its prices on parcels 30%-140% to reach pricing parity with parcel competitors. In Montana, mail has been an issue thats caught the attention of some legislators, including U.S. Senator Steve Daines. Hes penned letters to the Postmaster General and has also issued numerous statements expressing concern with service in the state. Daines office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Dimondstein described the Senator as someone who gets the issue. He understands what it means for the constituents of such a rural status as Montana, Dimondstein said. He certainly expressed, as we did, some of the concerns around service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres also been issues with air mail in the state. In 2023, the Missoulian also described various issues with mail in Missoula. Earlier this year, in another report, the newspaper stated some postal employees were dealing with fatigue, burnout and work weeks up to 80 hours. President Donald Trump has described the postal service as a joke and the appointment of David P. Steiner, a former FedEx executive, to the position of Postmaster General. These moves have the APWU concerned. The ads will run in Alaska, Oklahoma, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Dakota and nationally on CNN, MSNBC, and FOX. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is really part of our foundation, part of how the country was built, and its going to help propel us forward, Dimondstein said. And in that sense, its a source of pride for the entire country, certainly a source of pride for those who do the work and serve the people. Wells-Fargo-USPS-Privatization-A-Framework SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) With summer in full swing, many people are on their way to the pool or beach. However, some lifeguards who were hoping to watch over swimmers will not be climbing into their stands, as their certifications have been revoked. Melissa Rowes son earned his Lifeguarding certification from the YMCA of Central New York, a certification taken from him the following month. Melissa Rowe contacted NewsChannel 9 last week regarding the issue by forwarding the Your Stories team an email from the American Red Cross. The email began with the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear Lifeguarding student, It has come to the attention of the American Red Cross, via our Quality Assurance and Compliance department, that the Lifeguarding course taken at the YMCA of Central New York did not meet the standard teaching expectations. The YMCA told NewsChannel 9: For those who were unable to recertify with us for any reason we issued refunds so they could attend a class elsewhere. In cases where individuals experienced financial hardship or wage loss, we also provided additional support. I was not fully refunded yet, no, said Rowe. I was told that would be an option, but I have received no further information. The YMCA tells us 140 people were affected and over 70 of those people are already certified, and that they have more classes available. But what does that mean for the other half? Rowes daughter, Raechel Fleischmann, handles the scheduling for lifeguards. She and others pick up the slack since her brother was hired and then stripped of his certification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That messed up our schedule a little, said Fleischmann. I had to change around the entire month of July and early August. Her brother managed to find a class in July, which takes three days. But he hasnt completed the course yet. And Rowe hasnt seen the YMCA address the weeks of pay her son missed out on, after losing the certification. The YMCA says, Weve already offered six recertification classes and have an additional six scheduled, totaling 12 classes to be completed by August 2. These kids, mostly kids, invested hundreds of dollars in the training and lost literally thousands of dollars of summer income while they were waiting, said Rowe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But whos to blame? The American Red Cross sent the following to NewsChannel 9. In this case, it was determined that the Syracuse YMCA did not deliver the course in accordance with the Red Cross course standards. The situation left Rowes son with no certification, no refund and lost wages. The following is the entire statement sent to Newschannel 9 from the YMCA: The YMCA of Central New York recently learned that several lifeguard recertification classes offered through our association did not meet the American Red Crosss required instructional standards. In coordination with the Red Cross, some certifications were revoked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, we acted swiftly: Weve already offered six recertification classes and have an additional six scheduled, totaling 12 classes to be completed by August 2. A total of 71 individuals have either completed or are scheduled to complete their recertification. We are committed to offering additional classes until everyone affected can recertify. All recertification classes are being provided at no cost to participants to ease the burden this situation has caused. Its easy to register either online or through any YMCA branch location. Weve communicated directly with all impacted individuals and are also coordinating with local and state health departments to ensure all facilities remain in full compliance and are safe for use. The individual responsible for the classes in question is no longer employed with the YMCA of Central New York. We are reviewing our internal procedures and instructor training standards to ensure this does not happen again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, for those who were unable to recertify with us for any reason, we issued refunds so they could attend a class elsewhere. In cases where individuals experienced financial hardship or wage loss, we also provided additional support. The YMCA of Central New York is deeply committed to ensuring our lifeguards are confident, prepared, and fully certified to maintain the highest safety standards across our aquatics programs. The American Red Cross sent the following statement: As part of our ongoing commitment to water safety, the American Red Cross continuously reviews the lifeguard training performed by our Licensed Training Providers. In this case, it was determined that the Syracuse YMCA did not deliver the course in accordance with the Red Cross course standards. We are working with the Licensed Training Provider, the Syracuse YMCA, to provide the necessary retraining to affected students as quickly as possible. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An employee works the cash register at a soda fountain in Winterset, Iowa. A growing number of states are mandating that small employers participate in new retirement programs or offer workers their own plan. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Worried about large numbers of workers without a nest egg, Nevada this month launched a new retirement program for private sector workers who lack access to one. The program requires employers with six or more employees to participate unless they already sponsor an employee retirement plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees, who can opt out, are automatically enrolled in an Individual Retirement Account, or IRA, through regular paycheck deductions. Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine hopes the new program, created by lawmakers in 2023, will boost financial literacy and ultimately reduce state costs on social services as more people save for retirement. He said about 500,000 workers were expected to be eligible under the plan nearly a third of the states civilian labor force of 1.68 million. We dont care broadly if someone stays on the Nevada plan or goes out and gets their own retirement savings plan, said Conine, a Democrat who is running for state attorney general. We care that people are saving for retirement. Nevada is among a growing number of states creating automatic retirement programs for employees of private employers. These programs, known as auto-IRAs, target employees without access to retirement programs through work, aiming to address what groups such as AARP characterize as a national retirement crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, 20 states have created retirement programs for private sector workers, according to the Center for Retirement Initiatives at Georgetown University. Those programs are generally overseen by state treasurers and appointed boards. Private contractors administer the investment funds, which can fluctuate with financial markets. AARP says more than 1 million Americans have enrolled in auto-IRA programs launched by states in recent years. But the group, which advocates for Americans aged 50 and older, says nearly half of private sector workers 56 million people still lack access to a retirement plan through work. In the long term, this is a problem we need to deal with. But in the short term for those individuals, this is a real crisis, said David John, senior policy adviser at the AARP Public Policy Institute. This is something that they are going to be facing soon, and our goal is to make sure that as younger people come along, they are much better prepared than some of the people who went before them. While anyone can open a savings or investment account, workers are far more likely to participate in retirement programs funded through simple payroll deductions, John said. And state auto-IRAs require little effort from employees and employers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, anyone can go to a financial institution and open an IRA. But the bottom line is, they dont, he said. Unlike state pension programs for public workers including teachers, these auto-IRAs are the sole possession of the worker. That means they are portable, and employees can even rely on those funds for emergency expenses at times, John said. Some financial services firms have objected to these programs, arguing that they compete with private sector retirement providers. So far, more liberal states have led the way on auto-IRA programs: Oregon launched the nations first in 2017, quickly followed by Illinois and California. But John said theres growing interest in more conservative states: Nevadas legislation was sponsored by Democrats, but ultimately signed by Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not a partisan political issue, John said. We are seeing strong interest in a number of red states. Launching new programs In launching its new auto-IRA, Nevada elected to join an interstate consortium of public auto-IRA plans founded by the Colorado Department of the Treasury. By pooling resources and reducing overhead costs, officials say states can offer lower plan fees to savers. Relatively, its a lot of work to set one of these things up, but its a lot less work if youre not first, Conine said. The Nevada treasurers office expected the launch of the program to cost about $1.2 million over two fiscal years funds that were borrowed from the state and are to be paid back through the collection of retirement participant fees over time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colorado Treasurer Dave Young sees the states retirement program as both a social and financial cause: It helps workers save for a more dignified retirement and keeps the state from spending more on services in the long run, he said. If we dont take this on and get more people saving for retirement, theres this massive tax bill awaiting taxpayers to fund safety net services, and why would we do that to our taxpayers? said Young, a Democrat. Why not change the trajectory for people? Its relatively actually a simple solution. A 2023 report from payroll and benefits company Gusto found the biggest boost in participation came among Coloradans earning the least. Before the mandate, 10% of employees earning $15,000 to $25,000 per year participated in a retirement plan a share that nearly doubled to 19% afterward. Gusto also found more small employers started offering 401(k) plans after the states program launched in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colorado has signed up about 72,000 workers with more than $100 million in savings. About 20% of eligible employees choose to opt out, said Hunter Railey, executive director of the Colorado retirement program. The state program requires all employers in operation at least two years with five or more employees to participate or offer their own retirement plan. Railey said its an easy process to sign up employers and workers, though an initial challenge was identifying the states smallest employers. The state used its unemployment system database and explains the program requirement directly to businesses. The final step there is really just communicating effectively that these are required programs, and that failure to comply with this does carry penalties at some point, Railey said. By and large, we found that most if not the overwhelming majority of businesses, if they receive a notice for their business, are going to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pennsylvania State Treasurer Stacy Garrity, a Republican, has advocated for a state auto-IRA program. Legislation creating a program passed the Democratic-controlled state House by a single vote along party lines and now awaits action in the Republican-controlled state Senate. Garrity, who also leads the National Association of State Treasurers retirement and pensions committee, said an auto-IRA plan would benefit Pennsylvania businesses, workers and taxpayers. These are people we all depend on every day, like the mechanic who keeps our car running and the waitress that tops off our coffee, she said in a statement to Stateline. Two million hardworking Pennsylvanians without access to workplace retirement plans deserve to have the same opportunity to save. The opposition While state retirement programs are growing, they have faced industry opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State chapters of the National Federation of Independent Business, which represents 600,000 small businesses across the country, have opposed some measures. In Pennsylvania, the federation said 84% of surveyed members opposed creation of an auto-IRA, arguing not all employees could afford to invest in retirement and that the new plans imposed too heavy a burden on small businesses. The organization did not respond to requests for comment. The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, which represents financial services providers in every state, says states should encourage private-sector options rather than setting up competing programs. If we don't take this on and get more people saving for retirement, there's this massive tax bill awaiting taxpayers to fund safety net services, and why would we do that to our taxpayers? Colorado State Treasurer Dave Young In a statement, Kevin Mayeux, CEO of the association, said access isnt the only barrier to retirement savings. Many Americans, especially lower-income workers, must balance retirement savings against competing financial priorities including child care and rising costs of living. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organization said it supports states interest in retirement savings, but that lawmakers should focus on private-sector options. Those could include multiple employer plans and pooled employer plans that make it easier for small employers to offer retirement plans at competitive rates. In short, NAIFA does not oppose efforts to improve retirement security; we welcome them, Mayeuxs statement to Stateline said. But we believe that empowering private-sector solutions, not replacing them with state-run programs, is the path to long-term success. But early success among participating states is inspiring more adoption, said Angela Antonelli, a research professor and executive director of the Center for Retirement Initiatives at Georgetown University. In addition to amassing more than $2 billion in savings for workers, the state programs have encouraged employers to offer their own retirement plans, Antonelli said. Its a huge return on the investment. Its money well spent, she said. Antonelli said many participating workers are younger and will likely move into other jobs or careers over time. The hope is they will continue saving, either through the state-sponsored plans or retirement plans offered by future employers. While shes encouraged by the growing interest and adoption of these plans, Antonelli said she hopes to see Congress eventually act by requiring employers to offer retirement plans. A bipartisan group of U.S. House lawmakers reintroduced legislation on the matter in Washington this year, but it has not progressed. The goal is to have more states adopt these programs, she said. And I think the question is, is there a tipping point at which the federal government will now decide to step in? Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at khardy@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE This photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows an interior view of the China-built maternity ward building of Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital in Mindelo, Sao Vincente Island, Cape Verde. (China Railway 14th Bureau Group Co., Ltd./Handout via Xinhua) PRAIA, Cape Verde, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A China-aided maternity ward building has been handed over to local authorities in Mindelo, on Cape Verde's Sao Vincente Island. Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and Chinese Ambassador to Cape Verde Zhang Yang attended the handover ceremony Tuesday at Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital. In his remarks, Silva praised the cooperation between Cape Verde and China, noting that the project is the largest medical infrastructure project in Cape Verde since its independence. He described the new maternity building as a major achievement of practical cooperation between the two governments, saying it will significantly improve the maternal and child healthcare system, enhance the country's overall medical capacity, and bring tangible benefits to the public. Silva expressed hope that the two countries will continue to deepen their strategic partnership and expand cooperation into more areas. Zhang, for his part, said the project represents another milestone in China-Cape Verde friendship and cooperation. It reflects China's long-standing commitment to supporting Cape Verde's healthcare development and embodies the deep bond between the two peoples, he said. Zhang expressed China's readiness to take the handover as a new starting point to further advance bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Hospital Director Helena Rebelo Rodrigues thanked the Chinese government and the Chinese builders for their dedication. She said the maternity ward will greatly improve local maternal and child health conditions and bring new hope to thousands of women and children, marking a significant milestone in the hospital's history. Built by China Railway 14th Bureau Group Co., Ltd., the facility includes 150 beds, state-of-the-art delivery rooms, neonatal intensive care units, and obstetric operating theaters. The project also features a two-year technical support component, during which the Chinese side will provide professional training for Cape Verdean medical staff. Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva speaks during the handover ceremony of the China-built maternity ward building of Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital in Mindelo, Sao Vincente Island, Cape Verde, July 22, 2025. (China Railway 14th Bureau Group Co., Ltd./Handout via Xinhua) Chinese Ambassador to Cape Verde Zhang Yang speaks during the handover ceremony of the China-built maternity ward building of Dr. Baptista de Sousa Hospital in Mindelo, Sao Vincente Island, Cape Verde, July 22, 2025. (China Railway 14th Bureau Group Co., Ltd./Handout via Xinhua) AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) Outrage continued Tuesday night in the town of Amherst after the reinstatement of a controversial counselor within the school system. Parents, students, and allies met outside the Amherst Regional High School Tuesday night, calling for accountability from school district leaders after the controversial reinstatement of a former guidance counselor. DESE finds Amherst Regional High School short on learning hours in state complaint Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delinda Dykes was a counselor at Amherst Regional Middle School when her position was terminated in 2023 following a Title IX investigation that found evidence she misgendered students. However, Dykes appealed through arbitration, and it was recently ruled she must be reinstated. These kids told, spoke their truth, said rally organizer Ali Wicks-Lim. They shared their trauma and experiences, and the system failed them. The district must legally comply with this ruling, but the fallout since has left many in the school community frustrated and searching for answers. Misgendering and the refusal to use correct pronouns is harassment, said William Sherr, Regional School Committee Vice Chair. Obviously, our current policies do not draw that connection enough, and that must change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rally was held just before Tuesday nights school committee meeting and continued inside as parents urged district leaders to keep the newly reinstated counselor away from students. We call upon our district administrators to put Delinda Dykes into a position where she will not be interacting with students, ever, said parent Laura Jean. When 22News reached out about the reinstatement last week, school superintendent Dr. Xiomara Herman said in a statement, We cannot change the past, but we can and must learn from it. Our students deserve a school system that not only protects but celebrates their identities, and is grounded in clarity, equity, and care. Dr. Herman says this is an opportunity to improve how the school district leads, documents, and ensures accountability. In the meantime, parents and community members plan to continue putting pressure on school leaders to promote a safer space for all students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 22News has contacted Delinda Dykes and will provide an update once we hear back. 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. By Sonia Rolley (Reuters) -Moves to end fighting in eastern Congo that are essential to U.S. President Donald Trump's plans for a mining bonanza in the region are meant to get underway by Sunday, but the future of a small rebel group has emerged as one of the major obstacles. A U.S.-brokered peace agreement signed last month by the Congolese and Rwandan foreign ministers was designed to halt violence that escalated this year with a lightning advance in the Democratic Republic of Congo by M23 rebels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rwanda denies allegations from the U.N. and Western governments that it is fighting alongside the M23 rebels to gain access to Congo's minerals. Rwanda says its troops are there to tackle what it describes as an existential threat from thousands of Rwandan Hutu rebels known as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). Security experts and diplomats say the FDLR, which includes remnants of Rwanda's former army and militias that carried out the 1994 Rwandan genocide, boasts only a few hundred combatants and is not a significant battlefield force. But the peace agreement explicitly requires Congo to "neutralise" the FDLR as Rwanda withdraws from Congolese territory, underscoring the group's importance to the fate of Trump's diplomacy. Both the Congolese operations against the FDLR and the Rwandan withdrawal are supposed to start by Sunday and conclude by the end of September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.N. experts said in a report this month that Rwanda, along with M23, is trying to seize control of mineral-rich territory. Kigali responded that the presence of the "genocidal" FDLR "necessitates the defence posture in our border areas." The U.N. experts also accused the Congolese military of relying on the FDLR in its fight against M23. A spokesperson for Congo's government did not respond to a request for comment on that question, but Kinshasa has said it is on board with ensuring any threat posed by the FDLR is "definitively eradicated", including by voluntary disarmament. It has also accused Rwanda of using the FDLR as a pretext for deploying on Congolese territory. A State Department spokesperson said on Wednesday that Washington had urged Congo "to cease any engagement with this U.S.- and UN-sanctioned armed group and to ensure accountability for any such collaboration." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congolese researcher Josaphat Musamba said it was not possible for Congo to rid the region of FDLR fighters given that M23 holds much of the territory where the FDLR now operates. "It would be feasible if the Rwandan-backed rebellion were not active and threatening to conquer other territories," said Musamba, a Ph.D. candidate at Ghent University who is from eastern Congo and studies the conflict there. Jason Stearns, a political scientist at Simon Fraser University in Canada who specialises in Africa's Great Lakes region, said lack of progress against the FDLR could be cited by Rwanda as a reason to keep its troops deployed in eastern Congo past September, throwing off Washington's timeline. "It would be fairly easy for Rwanda to claim that Congo is not abiding by its side of the deal - that its operations against the FDLR are not serious enough, have not been successful enough - and therefore to drag its feet," Stearns said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Rwanda's government did not respond to a request for comment on its approach to the FDLR. Rwandan President Paul Kagame said on July 4 that Rwanda was committed to implementing the deal, but that it could fail if Congo did not live up to its promises to neutralise the FDLR. APPEAL TO TRUMP Trump said on July 9 the Congolese and Rwandan presidents would travel to the United States in the "next couple of weeks" to sign the peace agreement. They are also expected to sign bilateral economic packages that would bring billions of dollars of investment into countries rich in tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, lithium and other minerals. There has been no further word on a date. While Washington has hosted negotiations between Congo and Rwanda, Qatar has hosted separate direct talks between Congo and M23. On Saturday the two sides agreed to sign a separate peace deal by August 18. M23 currently has no concrete plans to withdraw from the territory it controls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FDLR has urged Trump not to green-light a Congolese offensive against it. A July 2 letter to Trump from Victor Byiringiro, the FDLR's acting president, said attacking the FDLR would jeopardise the safety of Congolese civilians as well as more than 200,000 Rwandan refugees. In written responses to questions from Reuters, FDLR spokesperson Cure Ngoma said only "a frank, sincere, and inclusive dialogue among Rwandans" could bring peace, though Rwanda has repeatedly ruled out such talks with the group. Trump expects Congo and Rwanda to abide by the peace deal "which will foster lasting stability and prosperity in the region," Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, said in response to Reuters questions about the FDLR's future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All armed groups must lay down their arms and work within the framework of the peace process." The State Department spokesperson said the U.S. had "consistently advocated for action against the FDLR." The fighting has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands more this year, while escalating the risk of a return to the kind of full-scale regional war which led to the deaths of millions of Congolese in 1998-2003. (Reporting by Sonia Rolley; Additional reporting and writing by Robbie Corey-Boulet; Editing by Philippa Fletcher) A hiker was hospitalized late Tuesday after being mauled by a brown bear on a popular trail network above Anchorage, Alaska. The Anchorage Daily News reported that the unidentified female victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was able to call for help after the attack in the Basher Trail area in the Chugach Mountains. The Anchorage Police Department led the rescue effort with the help of other agencies. The Anchorage Fire Department, which stated via social media that the bear ran off after the attack, informed followers: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hikers should avoid all the trails around the Stuckagain Heights area for the time being. If you do not have to drive in the neighborhood, please dont. Many first responders are participating in this mission. Shortly afterward, an Anchorage Police Department spokesman told the Daily News: We just found the person. And they are being evacuated to the hospital right now. The victim, who was in contact with emergency crews during the search, was located via drone. The police spokesman is quoted: Shes not able to walk, and they were having trouble locating her. She called us, she was on the phone with us the entire time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alaska Wildlife Troopers and other agencies also were involved in the rescue. Authorities planned to search for the bear after the rescue was complete. Bear attacks in the Basher Trail area are rare because of all the human activity. But it is bear country and hikers should always be prepared for possible encounters. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Anchorage hiker attacked by bear on popular trail; warnings issued Since its second and final season aired earlier this year, Andor, a Star Wars television series, has been met with universal acclaim. The praise is justified: Andor is a brilliant and soul-stirring depiction of popular resistance to tyranny, and many intelligent observers have already written about its relevance to global affairs. Indeed, the show is quickly becoming canon for experts on insurgencies and armed rebellions. But Andor has much to say about nonviolentcivil resistance and pro-democracy activism as well. As one morally conflicted rebel, Carro Rylanz, puts it, Peaceful resistance is not pretending. Its the only thing that carries any dignity. Of course, the Star Wars franchise primarily lionizes a ragtag rebellion armed with lightsabers and X-wings, not Gandhian hunger fasts. Yet Andor also purposefully grapples with the complex strategic and moral dilemmas confronting modern nonviolent pro-democracy campaigns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shows lessons come with real urgency. Historically, nonviolent civil resistance has been one of the most successful paths to durable democratization. Yet in recent years, people power campaigns have become less effective, even as an illiberal tide corrodes many of the worlds democracies, including the United States. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. If global democracy is to endure, learning how to reinvigorate nonviolent pro-democracy activism is a crucial task. Andor offers hope and inspiration on this front, even as it reveals several hard truths about the difficulties that activists now face. (Spoilers ahead.) The Empire Doesnt LearnBut Autocrats Do One of the key themes of Andor is the paradoxical fragility of authoritarian control. On one hand, the Galactic Empire runs a ruthlessly repressive regime, with its intelligence apparatus, the Imperial Security Bureau, or ISB, armed with seemingly limitless resources and firepower to maintain order across the galaxy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other hand, as rebel leader Cassian Andor insists, the Empire doesnt learn. Cassian sees the Empire as fundamentally arrogant, unable to conceive of its opponents resourcefulness or resolve. Basking in illusory omnipotence, the Empire underestimates popular fury and the burgeoning threats to its rule. Resistance is obviously futileexcept, of course, that it isnt. The series masterfully portrays this tension between authoritarian power and its vulnerabilities. Tyranny requires constant effort, the young rebel Nemik writes in a revolutionary manifesto that has already caught on in real-world popular culture. The obsessive determination of ISB officer Dedra Meero and her partner, Syril Karn, to hunt down Cassian and the rebel leader known as Axis illuminates this perpetual anxiety at the heart of totalitarian regimes: Tyrants cannottolerate defiance, and repression is their only means to restore order. However, this reflexive reliance on violence betrays not strength, but terrible weakness. In Cassians words, power doesnt panic. The Empire does. Yet contrary to Cassians assertion, real-world autocrats do learn. Dictators have adapted to play democratic charades, in what political scientists call competitive authoritarianism. They hold elections, but stack the deck in their favor; they coopt legislatures and pack judiciaries with loyalists; they rely less on naked violence and more on bureaucratic repression and media domination. Autocrats are also mastering digital technologies, wielding online censorship, surveillance and disinformation as powerful tools of control. And they have learned to deflect liberalizing pressures from abroad, discrediting democracy promotion as foreign interference. Andor shines in its unflinching depiction of the effort and sacrifice that comes with committing to resistance for the long haul. Put bluntly, there are no shortcuts to success for nonviolent resistance. It is comforting to imagine authoritarian regimes as static enemies, rigid pillars simply waiting to be toppled. Unfortunately, the truth is that autocrats are not idle. Instead, they are constantly adapting to mitigate the threat of nonviolent mobilization from below. In Andor, the nascent rebellion repeatedly goads the Empire into excessive violence, fueling mass outrage. In the real world, however, autocrats are learning to manage dissent with fewer extreme crackdowns, short-circuiting nonviolent activism before movements can gain steam. Blurring the Line Between Nonviolence and Violence The second season of Andor explicitly grapples with the merits of nonviolence. As the Empire builds a secretive military fortress on the planet Ghor, a local underground resistance movement debates whether to respond with a violent insurgency or nonviolent protest. Ultimately, they do a little of bothand are tragically massacred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ghor saga reveals several important truths about nonviolent resistance. First, nonviolent movements often coincide with violent ones. Data from the Nonviolent and Violent Campaigns and Outcomes, or NAVCO, project reveal that primarily nonviolent movements often either occur alongside armed rebellions or themselves include violent flanks, meaning subsets of actors who engage in violence. As noted by Erica Chenoweth, roughly half of recent movements featured violent flanks. Political scientists continue to debate whether violent flanks help or hurt movements. Indeed, Andor deliberately muddies the waters, using the Ghor rebellion to pose tough questions to both sides of the debate. Violent insurgency didnt save Ghor. But would strict nonviolence have fared better? Despite his fierce advocacy for peaceful resistance, Carro Rylanz ultimately saves Cassian by killing Syril Karn. The last time we as viewers see Rylanz, he is in tears, seemingly despairing at how things on Ghor went so terribly wrong. Regardless, the underlying problem is that nonviolent and violent movements are not always easily distinguished. Even overwhelmingly nonviolent movements may feature sporadic episodes of violence or spontaneous clashes with police. For instance, more than 95 percent of the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020 featured no reported violence of any kind, but major riots in Minneapolis still dominated nightly news coverage. That brings us to another, related truth: Public audiences do not always see nonviolent movements as peaceful. In Andor,the Empire uses galaxywide propaganda to brand dissidents on Ghor as violent terrorists. This is typical: Opponents invariably slander peaceful movements as violent. In addition, the massacre on Ghor begins when the ISB deliberately terrorizes a peaceful protest to provoke resistance and justify a crackdown. This, too, is commonplace: Violent clashes at protests are often blamed on protesters, even when they are initiated by security forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To combat these narratives, nonviolent activists may disavow radical flanks and distance themselves from violence. In Andor, the protesters on Ghor initially refrain from violence, instead singing a patriotic anthem in the face of provocations by the ISB. The next day, in a speech in the Galactic Senate, Sen. Mon Mothma refutes imperial propaganda about Ghor terrorism and decries the genocide of the Ghormans. Along these lines, studies show that effective information-sharing about massacres against peaceful protesters is key to mobilizing popular outrage and support. Unfortunately, studies also show that many factors can predispose audiences to see even objectively nonviolent protests as violent. Audiences tend to view protests led by ethnic minorities and opposition political parties as less peaceful. The presence of police at protests can also lead observers to incorrectly assume that they were there to respond to violence by protesters, and media coverage typically dramatizes protests as aggressive confrontations with police. For all of these reasons, peaceful protesters may find themselves fighting an uphill battle in the court of public opinion. Ultimately, however, they have little choice. Studies repeatedly show that publics strongly prefer nonviolence to violence. Clearly signaling a commitment to peaceful methods is thus crucial for movements to generate the widespread popular support they ultimately need to succeed. Revolutions Are Not Built in a Day Andordoes not shy away from hard truths about the time horizons of revolution. The first season progresses from quiescence to rebellion on the planet Ferrix, covering a year of in-universe time, while the second season uses time jumps to cover five in-universe years, as a scrappy rebellion matures into a true thorn in the Empires side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The seriestakes pains to highlight the long and winding road that the rebellion walked to achieve its goals. It includes references to past horrors from decades of imperial oppression, the fuel that feeds building resistance to imperial rule. Andoralso uses flashbacks to reveal the longue duree motivations of key rebels like Luthen Rael and Kleya Marki, who spend much of their lives fighting the Empire. Still, two short and all-too-bingeable seasons may give viewers an unrealistic sense of how quickly resistance movements develop and succeed. This is a common misconception about nonviolent movements. In the popular imagination, nonviolent action means huge street protests, with millions of outraged citizens packing urban squares and compelling dictators to resign or be quickly deposed. In reality, the truth is that most resistance movements take years to form, let alone succeed. In Poland, the communist-era Solidaritymovement endured a decade of repression before emerging victorious in the 1989 elections. The Indian independence movement, the U.S. civil rights movement and South Africas anti-apartheid movement unfolded over decades. NAVCO 2.1 data suggests that the average nonviolent campaign lasts roughly three and a half years, while the average violent campaign lasts over a decade. Andorshines in its unflinching depiction of the effort and sacrifice that comes with committing to resistance for the long haul. Successful nonviolent campaigns require deep community organizing, strategic planning and persistence through adversity. Major protest events are usually preceded by years of effort. At best, this work is demanding. At worst, it is traumatic and all-consuming, as activists suffer deep personal losses and endure the daily risks that come with defying their oppressors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Put bluntly, there are no shortcuts to success for nonviolent resistance. The Force Within Us Ultimately, the most moving scenes in Andor focus on the decision to rebel: the moments when downtrodden subjects of tyranny become determined freedom fighters. Some are radicalized by imperial atrocities and see only one way out; others find the courage to do what is right, or are simply swept along by their communities. In these moments, the series captures a deep truth: Be it armed or unarmed, revolution is a leap of faith. The costs of rebellion are very real, and its outcome uncertain. Yet people still rebel. Dissidents often vividly recall the day that they broke the barrier of fear, embracing stubborn hope and resolve despite their rational pessimism and terror. Vaclav Havel, the longtime political dissident in communist-era Czechoslovakia who went on to become its first post-communist president, called this living in truth. Others describe it as the pleasure of agency. The meaning is clear: Come what may, dissidents who have found their voices cannot easily succumb to the silent indignity of despotism. In Andor, the rebels face impossible circumstances. But they suffer, endure and ultimately win. In this, the world of Star Wars is not so different from reality. Every day, pro-democracy activists around the world summon the courage to risk their freedom, and often their lives, for a noble cause against daunting odds. All too often, they suffer for it. But they do sometimes win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This, then, is thehardest and yet most profoundly beautiful truth that Andor offers for nonviolent resistance: Revolutionaries may suffer, but the human spirit is indomitable. And that Force is always within all of us. Matthew D. Cebul is a research fellow at the Harvard Kennedy Schools Nonviolent Action Lab, where he writes on civil resistance in eroding democracies and external support for nonviolent movements. He received his doctorate in political science from Yale University and holds a bachelors degree from Haverford College. The post Andor Can Teach Us a Lot About Nonviolent Resistance, Too appeared first on World Politics Review. WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Andreas Evangelos Ninnis, age 68, passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Warren, Ohio, after a courageous battle with lymphoma, which he had fought since October of 2022. Born September 7, 1956, on the island of Kos, Greece, to Irene and Evangelos Ninnis, Andreas was raised in Kalymnos until 1965, when his family moved to Warren, Ohio. He carried the spirit of his island home with him throughout his life, especially his deep love for the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Find obituaries from your high school Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Known to most as Andre, he led a vibrant life marked by many passions and talents. After graduating from Warren G. Harding High School in 1975, he went on to work as a banker, a skilled mechanic and a water tower painter, a job that suited his adventurous and fearless nature. Whether wearing a tie or coveralls, Andre brought skill and heart to everything he did. He had a lifelong passion for engines, especially cars and motorcycles and was a true speed demon who loved to race cars, particularly in his younger days. He also found great joy in flying airplanes, both in the air and through flight simulators. Beyond his love for speed and machines, Andre had a deep interest in history and space. He loved gazing into the cosmos through one of his many high-tech telescopes, capturing distant galaxies through astrophotography, a hobby that fascinated him and brought him joy. A daredevil with a kind and generous soul, Andre was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was selfless and loyal to his family and friends, often described as best friend or brother by those who knew him. Known for his playful spirit, Andre was a joker and a prankster who loved to bring smiles to those around him. He had a big heart for animals, often taking in strays and giving them a loving home. Above all else, Andre was a family man. He took immense pride in his children and found his greatest joy in being Papou to his beloved grandchildren, whom he adored and absolutely loved to spoil. A big kid at heart, he enjoyed nothing more than getting on the floor to play, laugh and make memories with them whenever they visited. As an only child, he was just as devoted to his mother as she was to him, a bond of love and devotion that remained unshakable throught his life. As neighbors, they shared daily visits and cherished their time together. Andres love for his family was the cornerstone of his world and brought him deep comfort and support, especially in his final years. Even as he faced a difficult illness, Andre remained strong in spirit, choosing to make every moment count and to live with purpose, love and connection. He is survived by his beloved wife, Anitta Ninnis, whom he married on April 8, 2005; his devoted mother, Irene (Drakogiannakis) Ninnis; his daughters, Renae Ninnis Ruiz (Aldrick Ruiz) of Atlanta, Georgia and Stephanie Ninnis Cayson (Robert L. Cayson) of Columbus, Ohio; his stepson, Cody Richman (Laurie) of Lacey, Washington and his stepdaughter, Amanda Douglas (AJ). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Andreas (12), Gabriella (9) and Marina (3) Ruiz, Evangelo (2), Cayson, Alexis and Adleigh Richman, Connor Douglas and Reese and Riley Armstrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andre was preceded in death by his father, Evangelos Ninnis and his stepfather, Antonios Kostoglou. Though his final months were marked by pain and struggle, Andres strength, courage and love never wavered. He was taken far too soon and will be missed immensely by all who knew and loved him. His absence leaves a huge void in our hearts, one that can never be filled but will forever remind us of the love and joy he brought into our lives. Calling hours are 12:00 1:00 p.m., Friday, July 25, 2025, at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High Street NE, Warren, OH 44481. Services will begin at 1:00 p.m., at the church. All who knew and loved Andre are welcome to attend and celebrate his remarkable life. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, OH 44483, 330-394-6200. Dedicated To Serving Your Loved Ones. Condolences may be sent at www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Andreas Andre, please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Thursday, July 24 at the following approximate times: 6:47 a.m. on WYTV, 9:43 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV. 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. Andrew Cuomo says hes done being nice. In the 10 days since announcing he would pursue an independent bid for New York City mayor, Cuomo has acknowledged the mistakes that led to his stunning Democratic primary loss to state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. And he is trying to prove he can turn the race around before November by rebooting his campaign. Cuomo is trying to demonstrate that hes going to be a different candidate as he hopes to keep donors on board and appeal to Democrats and independents who might be uncomfortable with backing Mamdani, a democratic socialist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of his changes are easy to spot. Others are subtler. Taking questions again, going on podcasts Cuomo was hard to find in the primary, often dodging reporters who wanted to ask about the sexual harassment allegations and complaints about his handling of Covid-19 that preceded his resignation as governor. Now, hes doing on one-on-one interviews with the citys press corps at traditional campaign spots like subway stations. Hes also sitting for podcast interviews where hes explaining what he thinks he did wrong in the primary. Long known for his brash style, short temper and bullying tactics, Cuomo said he had adopted a softer approach during the primary campaign that did not work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So much for being nice, thats what I say, Cuomo told Stephen A. Smith during a recent podcast interview. Cuomo said hell bring back more of his old style. Perhaps most importantly, he said, hell call out what he describes as unrealistic ideas from Mamdani, who has proposed freezing hikes on rent-controlled apartments, opening city-run grocery stores and making public buses free. Those slick slogans that sound good everything free. Free buses, free education, free food, everything free. BS, everything is free? If it sounds too good to be true, it isnt. Cuomo told Smith. Cuomo did attack Mamdanis ideas as unrealistic during their primary debates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Cuomos pathetic attempts to rebrand cant mask his decades of corruption and backroom deals with Republicans and billionaires, that voters overwhelmingly rejected in June, Mamdani spokesperson Jeffrey Lerner said in a statement. Andrew Cuomo can try (and fail) to copy Zohrans style but he cant match the substance of a new vision that makes this city truly affordable. Arguing he, not Mamdani, is the true Democrat Cuomo has a lifelong history with Democratic politics. He is a son of Gov. Mario Cuomo, who joined President Bill Clintons Cabinet before being elected New York attorney general and then governor three times. Mamdani is on the Democratic line but hes a socialist. Im on the independent line but I am a Democrat. The politics nowadays are topsy-turvy; thats what were seeing in this election, Cuomo said on Smiths podcast. It will be an uphill battle given the citys overwhelming number of Democratic voter registrations and Mamdanis popularity among young New Yorkers who were central to his candidacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite having a significant share of the establishment support that has started to line up behind Mamdani, Cuomo is now dismissing that same establishment as reactionary. A lot of the voters are knee-jerk; I vote for the Democrat. A lot of the Democratic institutions, the unions, etc., they just knee-jerk go with the Democrat, Cuomo told Smith. Notably, some key establishment Democrats have not endorsed Mamdani, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who represents a Brooklyn district. Cuomo's campaign has been posting videos of him talking to people in New York. - From Andrew Cuomo/X Taking to the streets on social media After Cuomo said he would hit the streets and meet voters where they are in his campaign relaunch video, more footage has popped up on his campaign feeds. There is even a hint of trial and error. A recent video was quickly panned in the comments and subsequently reposted by Mamdani supporter accounts who mocked the audio quality of the video because it drowned out Cuomos voice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newer videos show Cuomo wearing a wireless microphone as he makes small talk and asks voters what their concerns are. The videos specifically show him speaking with New Yorkers inside restaurants and diners, chatting with a butcher on the Upper West Side, walking the streets of Staten Island by way of the Staten Island ferry, sampling prosciutto, visiting senior centers and the inside of restaurant kitchens. The choices of people in the video seem intentional. So far, the videos showcase Cuomo before his target voters upper middle class, White ethnic New Yorkers in parts of Manhattan and Staten Island, as well as older Black voters. Were talking about our problems; one of the big ones is affordable housing, Cuomo says in a video as he walks around Co-Op City in the Bronx. The sprawling, 15,000-unit housing cooperative is the largest in the nation and home to mostly Black New Yorkers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdanis team credited by both allies and enemies for its use of social media has brushed off what it sees as an attempt at mimicry. We got him making man on the street videos with a guy in carhartt. By next week, hell be sipping adeni chai and eating khaliat al nahl, the campaign wrote in a post on X. (Adeni chai is Yemeni milk tea; khaliat al nahl is an Arab pastry.) Talking less about Trump Cuomo previously tried to present himself as the only leader who could protect the city during President Donald Trumps second term in office. Now, as he looks to November and trying to draw conservatives to his independent bid, that message appears to be in the back seat. Instead, Cuomo has focused his attacks on incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, describing him as unelectable, and on Mamdani, casting his potential mayoralty as a time that will ruin New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be devastating to New York City, and it would take a decade to recover, Cuomo told Smith. While Cuomo attacks Adams, he is also pushing a proposal that would require any independent and the Republican nominee to drop out by September and endorse whoever is polling highest. So far, Adams and GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa have refused that idea, setting up a split contest that could benefit Mamdani by dividing his opposition. This story has been updated with additional details. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Andrew Young says MLKs legacy will persist even with release of assassination files One of Dr. Martin Luther Kings closest friends - civil rights icon and former UN Ambassador Andrew Young is speaking out about the release of the FBI files pertaining to the assassination of Dr. King. I dont think Ive hardly ever made a speech, and I make hundreds, when somewhere in the speech I dont quote Martin Luther King, Young said. Young told Channel 2s Karyn Greer that he was very close to the late King, often side by side in the fight for civil rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He never had a million dollars a year to work with. I think the SCLC budget, when I was there until he died, it never reached more than $600,000 a year. And his salary was $6,000 a year, Young said. While Young was serving Georgias 5th Congressional District, he said he was asked to lead the panel looking into Kings assassination. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was asked if I would like to even chair it. I had decided that we had to keep Martin Luther Kings mission and message alive. And there was no need in looking back. I still feel that way, Young said. Young told Greer that the work King has done for justice, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize, is what people should be concerned about and is still important work today. Its been 60 years. Sixty years and Martin Luther King is more loved now all over the world than he was and better known. And you cant you cannot kill that, Young said. Kings niece, FOX News contributor the Rev. Alveda King, released a statement on X, saying in part: The truth shall set us free (John 8:32). My uncles legacy was one of truth, faith, and freedom, and its time for America to hear the full story. JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) The future 44-acre Angel Oak Preserve receives a national recognition from the Old-Growth Forest Network. The Johns Island park was nominated and is now designated as a community forest, showing an example of a space that is located near urban or suburban areas and serves a gathering spot for the community. It also is permanently protected, which fits the description of what the network was looking for. The preserve is the first one in the state to be given this national honor. The Angel Oak is the perfect example, its like the mother of all trees in South Carolina, Samantha Siegel, Angel Oak Preserve director at Lowcountry Land Trust, said. The Angel Oak is such a great symbol and a great cause for people to rally around but theres so many other forests that are worthy of protecting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Siegel told News 2, the Lowcountry Land Trust team was excited and honored, as they will lead the way for other potential community forests in South Carolina. The preserve is expected to have a welcome center, miles of walking trails, cultural and immersive spaces, and more once complete. We saw the work that Lowcountry Land Trust was doing as a model for what other communities can learn from for centering their forest as an asset of the community, drawing in the community close by and far away, Sarah Adloo, executive director of Old-Growth Forest Network, said. Making it really a place that represents the community and honors both the past socially, culturally, and ecologically. The popular destination joins the short list of 54 community forests across the country. The Angel Oak Preserve director said the preserve is now a national treasure thanks to the City of Charleston, which has preserved the area around the tree since the 1990s, and other partners. Its been in the making for a long time, this has been almost a 20-year effort to protect this forest that the community has just stayed the course. Thats what really makes a difference when the community stays the course and follows through and makes sure their wishes are being carried out, Siegel said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Old-Growth Forest Network has designated two other locations as old-growth forests in the state, St. Phillips Island and Congaree National Park. The Angel Oak Preserve is set to begin construction in 2026. However, they are in the fundraising process at around $5 million of their $12 million goal. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DES MOINES, Iowa An Iowa boy who was born at just 21 weeks is now the Guinness World Records title holder for the most premature baby. Nash Keen, of Ankeny, turned one year old on July 5th as family members celebrated the giggly babys milestone, which seemed almost impossible to reach. The path to his birth was a difficult one for parents Randall and Mollie, who lost a previous pregnancy at 18 weeks and feared the same outcome after Mollie began experiencing issues 20 weeks into her pregnancy with Nash. We were devastated. We thought we were going through the exact same thing, and we thought we were going to lose this baby, Mollie said. At that point, I didnt know what I could do to turn things around. (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) (Courtesy: University of Iowa Health Care) Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Neonatologist Patrick J. McNamara MB, BCh, visits with Nash Keen and Nashs parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Nash Keen with his parents Mollie and Randall Keen at University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Nash was born in July 2024 as the earliest baby ever born at 21 weeks, 0 days gestation. He has survived with very minimal complications and is home and thriving. Thats when Mollie learned from a friend about the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospitals neonatal intensive care unit, which had begun to perform lifesaving measures on babies born at 21 weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mollie began contracting heavily in the early morning hours of July 2nd, 2024 and rushed to Iowa City to be admitted. Her water broke shortly after arriving but her care team was able to delay labor, and it was two days later when Mollie felt something wasnt quite right. I just remember feeling a bit off, Mollie said. So, I had them check to see how dilated I was and maybe a second later I had a bunch of people in my room. Nash was delivered by high-risk obstetrician, Malinda Schaefer, MD, PhD, just under 10 hours after he surpassed 21 weeks of gestation. Officials confirm case of measles in Western Iowa Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nash weighed 10 ounces at birth and medical staff wondered if he was too small for some of the medical equipment which would need to be utilized. Sometimes babies born at 21 weeks are just too small for even our tiniest breathing tubes and intravenous lines, said Amy Stanford, MD. Our NICU team assessed Nash, and I was able to place a breathing tube. Once we had the breathing tube in, his heart rate stabilized, and his oxygen levels were good. The first few weeks in the NICU, Nash faced multiple health issues. Around the one-month mark, we all began to breathe a little easier, Stanford said. While we knew Nash still had a long journey ahead, that was the point when we started to feel more confident that he had a real chance of going home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Randall and Mollie were able to take Nash home in January of 2025, after 189 days in the hospital. Nash continues to get care at Stead Family Childrens Hospital and from local specialists. He has a minor heart defect that is being monitored, but doctors said it should resolve itself as he ages. My ultimate goal for Nash is by the time hes five years old when he goes to kindergarten, no one will know that he was born so early, Stanford said. Doctors are hopeful that Nashs cognitive function wasnt affected by his premature birth because he didnt experience any brain bleeds while in the NICU. Its a common complication in extremely premature infants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His mother, Mollie, just wants her son to know how loved he is. I want him to grow up and be healthy, happy, and confident in who he is. I want him to see his story as a source of strength. University of Iowa Health Care provided the interviews and images used in this story. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) What started in Anna, Ohio, with just 100 associates on July 22, 1985, has grown into Hondas largest engine plant in the world. On Tuesday, the plant and the company wanted to celebrate its birthday with burgers and hot dogs. All associates were invited to a lunchtime cookout to recognize how far Hondas Anna Engine Plant has come over the past 40 years, and where they are headed next. Honda leaders visit Ohio to announce major Olympic partnership Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To show off how the plant and Honda have evolved over the decades, the company had a 1985 Accord on hand as well as a gold-wrapped Acura produced in conjunction with the Olympics. Despite facilities that have expanded over the years, plant leaders said its the people who have sustained their legacy. Theyre still here. The longevity is what makes me the most proud, I guess the longevity of the plant and the people who work here, because the plant is just the building, but the people inside it and make it what it is, said Steve Woodruff, a team leader at the plant. One employee has been at the plant every step of the way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From number one to number forty, I have been here now for each one of those anniversaries, said Rick Van Gundy, Honda accounting department. Van Gundy first began working at the Honda plant in January of 1986. He has worked on everything from paint and repairs to production planning to his current role in accounting. Theres been a lot of changes over the past four decades, like products coming and going, parts being discontinued, and the plant growing by more than 2,500 associates. But Van Gundy says what hasnt changed is the camaraderie, which has kept him here all this time. Its just the people here and the atmosphere here, and knowing that Anna is special, at least in my mind, said Van Gundy. I think its special because we are the powertrain. We make more engines, automobile engines than any other Honda plant in the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many other workers agree, saying its a special place to work. We have some people thats been here for over 30 years and they know exactly what theyre doing and have a great impact to us, said Michael Tinch, manufacturing plant lead. We also have a lot of new associates here. But whether youre here for a day or whether youre here for 30 or 40 years, everybody is extremely important to our company. Anna Honda employees say they look forward to seeing what else changes in the next 40 years of the plant. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JAKARTA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian government will begin applying an export levy on cocoa in the second half of this year, President Director of the Plantation Fund Management Agency Eddy Abdurrachman said here on Wednesday. The revenue from the export levy will be used to fund development programs in the cocoa sector, the president director explained. "It has been decided that cocoa will also be subject to export levies. Currently, it is only subject to export duties," he told reporters. "We will try to make sure it doesn't take more than two months." Eddy noted that the export levy will be designed in a way that avoids placing additional burdens on either exporters or the government. The government will also regulate the proportional distribution between the export levy and existing export duties, he noted. Jul. 23A Mexican gray wolf traveled to the Mount Taylor area last week, the fifth wolf since 2017 to leave an experimental population area to roam the mountain in northwest New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are monitoring the male wolf, M3065, and have not announced any plans to capture it. The wolf does have a radio collar tracking its location. The poster child for roaming wolves, a female wolf nicknamed Asha, remains in captivity despite a plan to release her and her litter of pups in June. U.S. Fish and Wildlife will not explain why the planned release never happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Fish and Wildlife is working with other agencies and zoos to recover the endangered Mexican gray wolf by tracking the genetics of different wolves, breeding captive Mexican gray wolves and releasing pups into wild dens. The agency also vaccinates wild wolves and monitors their locations. The species' recovery plan includes keeping the wolves within a specific area of Arizona and New Mexico, with Interstate 40 serving as the northern boundary. When wolves leave that area, sometimes they are allowed to roam and other times they are relocated back into its bounds. Environmental advocates have long pushed for expanding the species' range beyond the experimental population area. "It's a natural instinct to disperse and try to meet unrelated wolves with whom to mate and have unrelated offspring," said Greta Anderson, deputy director of the Western Watersheds Project. "This is a sign of a healthy, growing wolf population that it's expanding. Enforcing the boundary and putting wolves into captivity, or even re-releasing them, is just an exercise in disrupting the natural progression of the wolf population in New Mexico and Arizona." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A female Mexican gray wolf, F2996, traveled north of I-40 to the Mount Taylor area in March after escaping from a crate west of Show Low, Arizona. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service had captured the wolf for an annual population count when it escaped. It was found dead before the end of the month, and the cause of death is under investigation. The most recent northbound wolf, M3065, lived in the Mount Taylor area previously. The New Mexico Game and Fish Department accidentally captured him in a trap meant for coyotes on the LBar Wildlife Management Area, then relocated him to the Gila Flat area of Sierra County. Now that he's back near Mount Taylor, the department plans to monitor his location and work with U.S. Fish and Wildlife on any next steps. Female wolf F2754, nicknamed Asha, was placed in captivity in 2023 after twice journeying north of the interstate. The agency planned to release Asha once she was able to breed in captivity. This spring, Asha mated and had a litter of five pups. Fish and Wildlife planned to release Asha, her mate and their pups in June at Ladder Ranch, according to statements from the agency and the original 2025 release and translocation proposal. The release was meant to coincide with elk calving season, which peaks in May and June, so that the wolf pups would be taught to hunt elk instead of developing a taste for cattle, according to the proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm afraid if these wolves, Asha's family, age out of that puppy stage, they're going to get resistance to releasing them," Anderson said. Shortly before the release was supposed to happen, it was postponed with no explanation. Despite repeated requests from the Journal, the agency has not answered questions about why the release was postponed or whether Fish and Wildlife still plans to release the wolves from captivity. "I do not have an update to share with you at this time. Will reach out as soon as I hear something," is the only answer the Journal was given from an agency spokesperson. Initially, the agency told Anderson that the release was postponed because of logistics, she said. She believes the delay is political. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When they captured her in 2023, they promised that they would release her if she had babies. They promised again last summer that they would release her this year if she had babies. The only thing that's changed in that time has been the (presidential) administration," Anderson said. In early July, 36 conservation groups sent a letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service demanding the wolf pack's release. The letter has gone unanswered. DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) Decaturs Modaus Road is no stranger to black bears, as Austin High and Austin Middle School are both located in that area. But its not often a live black bear, not just a mascot dressed in orange, is seen roaming in peoples backyards in that area. However, that is exactly what happened to Decatur residents Tuesday morning. A video sent to News 19 shows a black bear in the yard of a home off Modaus Road. You can see the video of the bear below: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Decatur Police Department said that officers, along with game wardens, responded to the bear sighting. Photo courtesy of Decatur Police Department This is the latest of many black bear sightings in North Alabama. A bear was seen in June in Huntsville, one was spotted in Athens, then another was seen last week in the Tuscumbia area. Bears are a natural part of Alabamas wildlife landscape. According to Marianne Gauldin, a biologist with the Alabama Wildlife and Fisheries Division, May through late July is when bears are their most active and more likely to be seen statewide. If theyre behaving normally, they wont approach you, and if you dont have an attractant out for them, they typically wont stick around for long, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say you should never feed or approach a bear, and you should also make sure to secure outside items like food or garbage that might attract a bear. Bears are attracted to anything that would attract a raccoon, Gauldin said. So think about it.anything that you leave outside that a raccoon would approach, a bear would approach. This includes pet food, left outside trash, left outside bird feeders, even a summertime grill that smells like hot dogs. If youre immediate reaction is to quietly sneak away, Gauldin said you should actually do the opposite. Make sure that it sees you too, she said. Clap your hands, wave your arms above your head, and holler at it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the tactic of playing dead does not apply to 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 WHNT.com. ANSON, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) If you live in Anson, you may already know Seth Morris and PJ Rodrigueznot just as neighbors, but as everyday heroes. As firefighters, they face danger head-on, and recently, theyve taken their service far beyond city limitsresponding to natural disasters in Kerr County and even the rugged wilderness of Alaska. Candlelight vigil held for Central Texas flood victims in Abilene Both men have dedicated most of their adult lives to the Anson Volunteer Fire Department. Theyre also part of the Texas A&M Forest Service, which deploys them across the country wherever theyre needed most. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most recently, Morris and Rodriguez responded to two major disasters in very different parts of the nation. Morris traveled to Alaska, where he battled fast-moving wildfires that threatened wildlife, homes, and entire communities. Seth traveled to the rugged wilderness of Alaska, where he battled massive, fast-moving wildfiresworking tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and the natural beauty that others may never even see, the Anson Chamber of Commerce shared. His work left a mark on a land most of us will never set foot on, but his impact there is lasting. There was beauty in such tragedy: Brake family remembers their family, reflect on international attention Back in Texas, Rodriguez was deployed to Kerr County in the wake of devastating floods. From clearing debris to searching for the missing, Rodriguez stepped in to provide help and hope in a community reeling from loss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What they see, what they carry, most of us will never understand. And stillthey go. Again and again, the Anson Chamber of Commerce shared. Seth. PJ. You are the heartbeat of this town. You represent everything good and selfless and brave about what it means to be a Hometown Hero. We see you. We are proud of you. And we thank younot just for what you do, but for who you are. But even heroes need a support system. Behind both courageous men stands a network of family, friends, and fellow firefightersoffering strength, love, and encouragement every step of the way. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Supporters of Amendment 3 celebrate on Sept. 10, 2024, on the steps of the Missouri Capitol after the state Supreme Court ruled the abortion-rights measure could remain on the ballot. (Photo by Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent) OKLAHOMA CITY An anti-abortion group is asking the Oklahoma Supreme Court to uphold a new law putting more restrictions on the initiative petition process after residents in other states used it to expand abortion access. Oklahomans for Life is arguing that Senate Bill 1027 should be allowed to stand because the new requirements it adds to the initiative petition process will help expose the powerful national interests working to infiltrate local lawmaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma has some of the strictest abortion laws in the nation, allowing the procedure only to save the life of the mother. But since the U.S. Supreme Courts 2022 ruling that allowed states to determine abortion access, abortion-rights groups have increasingly turned to well-financed ballot initiatives to override duly-elected state legislatures and enact constitutional protections for abortion access, the group wrote in its brief. In several states, these campaigns have been pushed by national organizations with virtually unlimited resources and whose messaging is often tailored to appear local, moderate, or non-partisan, according to the proposed brief. Critics argue Senate Bill 1027 is unconstitutional and have sued to block it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law, which remains in effect, limits how many signatures can be gathered in each county, restricting participation in the states most populated areas. It prohibits paying petition circulators based on the number of signatures collected, requires sources of payment to circulators to be disclosed and bars out-of-state interests from donating. Those circulating the petition must also be registered voters in Oklahoma. Voters in five states, including Nevada, Arizona, Montana, Colorado and Missouri, approved citizen-initiated ballot measures in 2024 that protected the right to abortion, while voters in three states Nebraska, Florida and South Dakota rejected measures, according to KFF. Nebraska voters that same year approved a citizen-led measure banning abortion after the first trimester. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, said an initiative petition seeking to legalize abortion in Oklahoma was a concern when lawmakers crafted Senate Bill 1027. But it can go beyond just abortion, she said. Some progressive organizations with deep pockets are using the process to achieve policy goals they could not otherwise attain due to the makeup of the Legislature, she said. Republicans have super majorities in both legislative chambers and control all statewide offices. Oklahomans for Life Chairman Tony Lauinger could not be reached for comment Wednesday. In 2022, two Tulsa and one Bixby residents filed papers with the Oklahoma Secretary of State indicating a desire to circulate an initiative petition seeking to legalize abortion in Oklahoma. A few weeks later, they withdrew it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amber England, who has worked on initiative petitions, said she is not aware of any official effort to put an abortion question on the ballot. It is my strong belief the Legislature has effectively neutered our constitutional right to the initiative process, she said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A nonprofit anti-vaccine group founded by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said it is funding a lawsuit against him, in his capacity as secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, for failing to establish a task force to promote the development of safer childhood vaccines. Our first priority will ALWAYS be childrens health. Sec. Kennedy has FAILED to establish a task force dedicated to making childhood vaccines safer, as mandated by federal law, so we WILL be holding him accountable, Childrens Health Defense said Tuesday in a post on X. The tactic is one familiar to both parties. When Kennedy was head of Childrens Health Defense, he filed dozens of lawsuits against corporations and government agencies, usually over vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its difficult to know how much of this is performative, Dr. Peter Hotez, who co-directs the Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Childrens Hospital in Houston, said in an email. The steady stream of pseudoscience policies and propaganda pushed out of the Humphrey Building in Washington DC are both straight out of playbook from both RFK jr and CHD. As far as I can tell there is no real daylight between the two. The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 directs the HHS secretary to establish a task force consisting of the director of the National Institutes of Health, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration and the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The NIH director is designated as chair. According to an article posted Monday on Childrens Health Defenses news site, in the years since the act was passed, no HHS secretary including Kennedy has ever reported to Congress on steps taken to make vaccines safer. This is part of the 1986 act itself, Childrens Health Defense CEO Mary Holland said in the article. That no secretary has done so since the passage of this law is a blow to the rule of law. I hope and trust that the current secretary will fulfill his obligation to Congresss mandate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The task force was indeed created, but it was short-lived, issuing its final report in 1998. Since then, Kennedy has used the absence of the panel to mischaracterize the governments efforts to ensure the safety of vaccines. Hes floated the idea of reviving the panel or one like it on vaccine safety for years. Childrens Health Defense says attorney Ray Flores, its senior outside counsel, filed the lawsuit. Kennedy filed a similar suit in 2018 after a Freedom of Information Act request failed to produce any of the reports that are supposed to be filed under the Act, including the 1998 report. HHS has not responded to CNNs request for comment about the new lawsuit. Dorit Reiss, a professor of law at UC Law San Francisco, also said the lawsuit looks performative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It may give Kennedy cover for convening this task force that he may already want to convene. It may well be collusion, she said in an email. To me, this looks like a way to give political cover to something the Secretary may want to do anyway (and can do without anything). The government has answers to this lawsuit, but may not want to. Even if it does not include the people in the [National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act], there are multiple federal committees that routinely look at vaccine safety and how to make vaccines safer. Its something that gets a lot of attention, Reiss wrote. Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly described who filed the lawsuit against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The lawsuit was filed by attorney Ray Flores and Childrens Health Defense says its funding the lawsuit. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Last week, Atlanta officials celebrated an agreement between the police department and the Atlanta Citizen Review Board to increase civilian oversight over the agency. In a statement, Mayor Andre Dickens described the agreement as a step toward rebuilding trust between the government and the people it serves. Tiffany Roberts, co-founder of Building Locally to Organize for Community Safety, a police accountability organization responsible for getting the review board subpoena powers in 2010, told Capital B Atlanta on Tuesday that the vague language in the agreement still lacks transparency when it comes to the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The [memorandum of understanding] really doesnt mention the community at all. It doesnt enhance transparency, she said. For the most part, it just formalizes what really should always happen. Issues with the review board were raised in a troubling investigation published by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in January that found that the board had failed to investigate 39 deadly-force incidents since 2020, when the Atlanta City Council expanded the boards powers. The report also highlighted the review boards failure to begin investigating deadly incidents even after the criminal investigation was completed by the district attorneys office, who only brought charges in half of the cases. The new agreement stipulates that APD will notify the review board of any changes to use-of-force policy. But Roberts said board members should already be aware of APDs standard operating procedures because that should guide their determination on if an officer should be disciplined or not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts, who is now director of public policy at the Southern Center for Human Rights, believes key issues remain unaddressed that could still hinder the review boards work to effectively address police accountability. I think the big takeaway should be that the ACRB needs the staff to conduct responsible and thorough investigations. With or without the [memorandum of understanding], thats necessary because theyre required to review these incidents rather than just being permitted to do so without a complaint, Roberts said. Read More: How to File a Complaint Against Law Enforcement Despite the 15-member citizen board having only four investigators and 10 other full-time employees, its executive director, Samuel Lee Reid II, spoke favorably about the new agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This [was] truly a collaborative effort to try to correct some issues that were raised and ensure that we have proper communication and accountability and transparency going forward, Reid told the councils Public Safety and Legal Administration Committee last week. During the July 14 committee meeting where Reid presented the agreement, District 12 council member Antonio Lewis directly addressed the elephant in the room by asking if the agreement will prevent another embarrassing situation like what happened earlier this year. I just want to make sure that youre being given the information [so] that we dont have to listen to the news doing open records requests and what they get out of it is totally different from what youre saying, Lewis said. Reid tried to reassure Lewis, describing the agreement as the result of months of discussions between the citizen review board and the Atlanta Police Department facilitated by the mayors chief strategy officer, Peter Aman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were on the right path to continue the success with the ACRB and as I always say, [we are] leading the nation in how to do civilian oversight, he said. While this revised agreement is a step in the right direction towards transparency, we hope the work to protect the rights of people in Atlanta will be ongoing, Christopher Bruce, policy and advocacy director at the ACLU of Georgia, said in a statement to Capital B Atlanta. Read More: How to Request Body Camera Footage from Atlanta Police Some of the terms in the new agreement are: APD has 24 hours to report firearm discharges, officer-involved shootings, serious bodily injuries in custody, and deaths in custody to the review board. APD must also share case files with the board within 24 hours, unless they are restricted by a DA request or active appeal. APD has to provide a written report to the review board when the disciplinary decision imposed on the officer is greater or lesser than what was suggested. The review board has three business days to report its decisions to the police department, the mayors office and city council. New review board members will attend the citizen police academy during their orientation. The review board will observe APD recruitment and training, and offer feedback The board will train APD on the complaint and investigation process Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an effort to maintain the agreements effectiveness, APD and the review board will meet biweekly, monthly, quarterly and annually to discuss and provide potential updates. As for Roberts, in addition to transparency concerns for the community, she would like to see the review board broaden its scope in the future to include investigating misconduct by off-duty APD officers and creating a mechanism for more public input on their actions. The post APD Must Now Report All Deadly Force to Citizen Review Board appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. Appeal 2025 ended with a total of $7.4 million in cash and pledges, falling short of its goal by $1.1 million. Launched in January, the annual Appeal in support of Catholic Charities of Buffalo and the Fund for the Faith raised 87.5% of its $8.5 million goal by the June 30 close. We are deeply grateful for the generous support of Western New Yorkers who have found it in their hearts to help their neighbors in need a need that continues to grow in nearly every corner of the region, said Deacon Steve Schumer, president and CEO if Catholic Charities. Even as we recognize the significant contributions of so many, we are deeply concerned about the continuing decline in the number of donors to the Appeal and what that could mean for the Agencys ability to respond to the needs of the community in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Appeal 2025 drew support from 17,280 donors, according to chair Dr. Michael Noe. By Catholic Charities count, that was 3,000 fewer donors than participated in Appeal 2024. Since 2021, there has been a total loss of more than 12,000 donors. As the numbers of both parishes and practicing Catholics decline, the clients who rely on Catholic Charities for services such as food pantries, behavioral health, emergency assistance, and more will need the broader Western New York community to provide support through the Appeal, Schumer said. The Appeal helps fund dozens of programs and services administered by Catholic Charities along with several ministries through the Fund for the Faith including hospital chaplaincy and training for ordained and lay ministers. Direct donations to Catholic Charities can be made at ccwny.org/donate. KABUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Six people died and 12 others were injured due to an explosion inside a coal mine in northern Afghanistan's Baghlan province on Tuesday, provincial director for coal mine Mawlawi Abdullah said. According to the official, the blast took place in the Karkar coal mine at 3:30 p.m. local time, killing six miners on the spot and injuring 12 others. All the injured have been shifted to the hospital, the official added without providing more details. A federal appeals court ruled in favor of MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell on Wednesday in his bid to avoid paying $5 million to a software developer who declared victory in Lindells contest to disprove his claims of foreign interference in the 2020 election. The three-judge 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panels unanimous decision found an arbitration panel exceeded its power by changing unambiguous contract terms to award the developer Lindells prize. Fair or not, agreed-to contract terms may not be modified by the panel or by this court, U.S. Circuit Judge James Loken wrote in the 12-page decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview, Lindell called the lawsuit a setup. This is vindication. This opens a door that no man can shut. I am so excited. I mean, this is an answer to prayer, Lindell told The Hill. Lindell hosted a Cyber Symposium in South Dakota in 2021, where he showed data claiming Chinese election interference in former President Bidens 2020 victory. Lindell offered $5 million if someone could prove the data was unequivocally not related to the 2020 election. Software developer Robert Zeidman, a contestant, produced a 15-page report rebuffing Lindells data. But the challenge judges said Zeidman wasnt entitled to the prize. Zeidman brought the dispute into arbitration, in accordance with contest rules. After a hearing, the arbitration panel ruled in his favor. The panel concluded Zeidman had proven Lindell had not provided packet capture data, often referred to as PCAP files, and therefore had shown it was not election data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We conclude that the panel effectively amended the unambiguous Challenge contract when it used extrinsic evidence to require that the data provided was packet capture data, thereby violating established principles of Minnesota contract law and our arbitration precedents, Loken wrote in the opinion. Loken is an appointee of former President George H. W. Bush. His decision was joined by U.S. Circuit Judge Lavenski Smith, appointed by the former President George W. Bush; and U.S. Circuit Judge L. Steven Grasz, appointed by President Trump. The decision instructs a lower court to immediately wipe the $5 million arbitration award or conduct further proceedings in line with the appeals courts reversal. Brian Glasser, Zeidmans attorney, defended the arbitration decision when reached for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your readers can judge for themselves if the Eight Circuits decision today is more persuasive, or rings in truth louder, than the unanimous contrary decision of three arbitrators who heard all the evidence, including one appointed by Mr. Lindell, Glasser said in an email. Lindell has been embroiled in litigation over his baseless claims of mass election fraud in the 2020 election. Last month, a Colorado jury ordered Lindell pay $2.3 million to a former Dominion Voting Systems employee who sued him for defamation. Lindell also faces defamation lawsuits that remain ongoing from both Dominion and Smartmatic, another voting systems company. Before those would ever even get to trial, youre going to see the big win will be as you watch me melting down these machines and turning them into prison bars. Thats my big win, Lindell said. Updated at 1:51 p.m. EDT Advertisement 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. A federal appeals court on Tuesday overturned a New Jersey law banning private operators from gaining contracts with the federal government to run immigration detention centers. The 2-1 ruling allows prison firm CoreCivic to continue operating New Jerseys Elizabeth Detention Center, which has drawn broad attention amid the Trump administrations crackdown on undocumented immigrants. [J]ust as states cannot regulate the federal government itself, they cannot regulate private parties in a way that severely undercuts a federal function, Circuit Judge Stephanos Bibas, a Trump appointee, wrote in the opinion Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Cheryl Ann Krause, an Obama appointee, joined Bibas in the majority opinion. Judge Thomas Ambro, a Clinton appointee, dissented. CoreCivic is facing a similar battle in Kansas after Leavenworth County Judge John Bryant blocked the company from housing individuals in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a shuttered site. Immigration officials were able to reopen the Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey under a $1 billion contract with the GEO Group as a private lender. Some have suggested privatizing federal immigration detentions will help increase the speed of removals, making good on President Trumps campaign promise to carry out the largest deportation in the countrys history. Advertisement 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. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) The City of Rochester has been ranked ninth among the Best Cities for People with Disabilities according to a recent study and ranking by Trajector Medical. News 8 spoke with the Arc of Monroe about the significance of Rochester as an accessible community. It makes me feel good, President and CEO of the Arc of Monroe, Tracy Petrichick, told News 8, Its just one step that we have to continue to make to provide this opportunity, quite frankly, that people with disabilities have the right to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arc of Monroe is a local organization that provides support services to individuals with disabilities through advocacy in the Rochester area. As an organization that works closely with the community, the ranking supports their commitment to building an accessible and inclusive environment. The study examined how 150 of the United States most populated cities meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. A ranking is then determined considering the accessibility and affordability of the cities, using information provided by the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Zillow. Western New York Wildway: Connecting habitats for wildlife While the ranking is affirming, Petrichick said there is more to be done, and it cant be done by the organization alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve established a lot of partnerships, whether its with local governments, with our colleges and universities, businesses. We make connections all the time, and those partnerships really are whats moving things forward, Petrichick said. Overall, Rochester received a score of 81.89 out of 100. The city ranked sixth best in affordability, fourth highest in the number of beds available in Medicare-registered nursing homes, and seventh highest in the number of healthcare providers at Medicare-registered hospitals. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WETM) Law enforcement agencies across three counties in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions have been awarded more than $1.6 million to go towards an initiative that helps prevent gun violence across New York State, according to a release from Governor Kathy Hochuls Office on Wednesday. Law enforcement agencies across Chemung, Tompkins, and Broome counties were granted a total of more than $1.6 million on Wednesday, July 23, to further aid in the fight against gun violence across NYS, the release explained. Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) is a national initiative that is part of the states intention to lower shootings and gun-related violent crime, such as homicides, in areas outside of New York City. The funding through GIVE comes from the state and covers costs of equipment, overtime, and staff expenses for NYS law enforcement agencies, the release stated. Further, law enforcement agencies also get specialized training and technical support, the release noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My top priority is public safety, and since taking office, my administration has been laser-focused on working with local law enforcement to drive down gun violence across New York communities, Governor Hochul said. New Yorks GIVE initiative is a crucial part of our comprehensive plan to reduce shootings and firearm-related violent crime and its working. But we will not stop fighting for safer streets until all New Yorkers feel safe, Governor Hochul explained. New York funding free calls for incarcerated people as FCC stalls The law enforcement agencies that have received the funding for the above-listed three counties include police departments, district attorneys offices, probation departments, and sheriffs offices, the release emphasized. Listed below are the agencies in Chemung, Tompkins, and Broome County that will share the funding: Chemung County ($421,462) Chemung County District Attorneys Office $54,500 Chemung County Probation Department $44,000 Chemung County Sheriffs Office $90,000 Elmira Police Department $232,962 Tompkins County ($421,955) Ithaca Police Department $150,485 Tompkins County Probation Department $50,820 Tompkins County Sheriffs Office $220,650 Broome County ($824,402) Binghamton City Police Department $360,753 Broome County District Attorney $157,738 Broome County Probation Department $103,400 Broome County Sheriffs Office $202,511 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GIVE initiative continues to produce results that matter. Thanks to Governor Hochuls ongoing commitment and the leadership of the Division of Criminal Justice Services, law enforcement agencies across the state are better equipped to target and reduce gun violence, said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. This funding supports the critical work being done on the ground, providing local agencies with the tools, training, and resources they need to keep their communities safe. The New York State Police is proud to support our partners in this effort and remains committed to doing everything we can to protect the people of New York, James emphasized. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ark Invest, the New York firm that moved to St. Petersburg in 2021, will relocate its corporate headquarters to The Central in the Edge District, according to a news release. Ark Invest will move into the 11th floor of Halcyon Workspace, the Centrals office building, which is part of a mixed-used development spearheaded by Ellison Development. Ark Invest will occupy the entire 13,000-square-foot space. Our future location at Halcyon will place us at the epicenter of a city we love and surround our employees with world-class amenities, a space designed to meet our needs, and the energy of downtown, said Cathie Wood, Ark Invests founder and CEO in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ark Invest originally moved from New York City to St. Petersburgs 200 Central building four years ago. Last year, the company invested $2 million in the Ark Innovation Center, a 45,000-square-foot business incubator made up of tech labs and office space for start-up companies on Fourth Street South in the Innovation District. While many companies have shifted to a hybrid work model, there is still demand for office space in Tampa Bay, according to previous Tampa Bay Times reporting. Ellison describes Halcyon office space as the first trophy-class office tower to rise in downtown St. Petersburg in more than a generation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its one of several office space projects going up in St. Petersburg, including at the Residence at 400 Central and another in the Waldorf Astoria Residences. Construction for the Halcyon is expected to begin later this year. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Filings with the Arkansas Insurance Department show health insurance rates will see a big increase for some Natural State residents in 2026. The average proposed health insurance rate increase for individuals for 2026 is 26.2%, significantly higher than in previous years. In comparison, for 2025, the rate increase was 6.2% and in 2024, it was 4.1%. How 17 million Americans enrolled in Medicaid and ACA plans could lose their health insurance by 2034 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neil Sealy, an advocate for low-income Arkansans, calls the new proposed rate increase a disaster. Insurance companies, we dont want you to raise your rates, Sealy said. And you shouldnt for this particular population. A Blue Cross Blue Shield representative stated that its proposed 25.7% increase will affect individual policyholders under the age of 65 who do not have coverage through their employer. I think yes, they will struggle with that, Sealy said. And some may not be able to afford it. Blue Cross Blue Shield stated that the rate increase is due to recent federal and state requirements, including the upcoming expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, a program under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sealy said the proposed rate is yet another obstacle for low-income Arkansans. Yes, this could be a barrier, he said. But it is a barrier that could very easily be taken down. Health insurers promise to improve coverage reviews that prompt delays and complaints Under state law, the Arkansas Insurance Department reviews the proposed rates to ensure that plans are priced appropriately and then either approves or rejects them before they take effect on Jan. 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 KARK. Arkansas Board of Corrections member Lee Watson, right, answers questions from the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee on Friday, June 6, 2025. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate) This story has been updated to include comments from Republican state Sen. Ben Gilmore and Rep. Howard Beaty, both of Crossett. A member of the Arkansas Board of Corrections challenged legislators about the need for a new 3,000-bed prison and offered less expensive alternatives on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The corrections board is acutely aware of the need for a new facility, Lee Watson wrote in an email, but has never asked for a 3,000-bed prison, and has never been told that such a large facility is necessary nor been provided with any evidence that it is needed. Our needs dont support a 3,000-bed facility when the county jail backup is 1,600, Watson said. County jails house inmates for whom there is no room in state facilities, and county sheriffs have complained to lawmakers for years about the need for a solution. The state prison population as of March was 16,706, according to a Division of Correction report. The county jail backup total was 1,622. Arkansas absolutely needs a new prison, Watson said. Arkansas incarceration of offenders has outpaced our facilities capacity to house offenders for more than 45 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He recommended a 1,000-bed prison instead, along with expansion of an existing facility. He emphasized that he was not speaking on behalf of the prison oversight board and said the board does need lawmakers support and funding to address overcrowding problems. Watson acknowledged that future prison needs will grow but noted that the county jail overflow has stayed at around 1,600 for several years. We need to find a prudent path forward that will address the needs of Arkansas, Watson wrote in the email to members of the legislative panel that oversees prison issues. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Sen. Ben Gilmore, R-Crossett, and Rep. Howard Beaty, R-Crossett, disagreed with Watsons assessment of prison space needs. Beaty is co-chair of the legislative committee corrections oversight panel, and Gilmore is an ex-officio member. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states prison bed shortage is far larger than a simple tally of inmates currently in county jails, Sanders said in a statement through spokesperson Sam Dubke. Law enforcement officials across Arkansas agree we need to build a new prison with adequate capacity to improve public safety and get violent, repeat offenders off our streets, Sanders said. The need for a much larger prison is urgent, Gilmore and Beaty said. Both said the Board of Corrections has failed to proactively address the prison capacity issue. Sen. Ben Gilmore, R-Crossett (foreground) and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (background) following a news conference at the state Capitol on March 27, 2023. He and Sanders talked about proposed legislation to address prison overcrowding and other crime issues. (Photo by John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate) Gilmore said a 3,000-bed facility right sizes the system, considering the thousands of unserved warrants, early-release inmates who abscond and the county jail overflow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement County jails were never designed to house hardened state inmates, said Gilmore, who sponsored a Sanders-backed 2023 law that requires the most serious offenders to spend more time in prison. Beaty said Watsons superficial analysis of current jail overcrowding numbers fails to capture the intricate web of systemic failures that have long marred the Boards handling of bed capacity. Decades of mismanagement and the reckless use of the Emergency Powers Act have seen violent offenders prematurely released, recklessly endangering public safety, Beaty said, referring to a law that allows the corrections board to release inmates when prison capacity reaches a certain threshold. The Boards gross negligence in addressing this capacity crisis has cost the people of this state dearly, Beaty said. Smaller alternatives Watson said the state would be better served by following through on an abandoned 500-bed addition to a prison at Calico Rock in north Arkansas and building a 1,000-bed prison in western or northwestern Arkansas,. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Board of Corrections has nevertheless voted to accept the Sanders administrations purchase of more than 800 acres in Franklin County in western Arkansas as a site for the mega-prison, hired a construction management firm and architects and engineers, and last month authorized two test water wells. But the board took those actions, Watson said, with the realization that many factors would influence the outcome, especially the willingness of the legislature to provide funding. Gilmore said lawmakers have approved significant budget increases for the Department of Corrections for 20 years, and he questioned Watsons implication that the Legislature has not fully supported the departments financial requests. Rep. Howard Beaty Jr. at a House committee meeting in September 2023. (Photo by John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate) Beaty said the Board of Corrections has shamefully failed to take any proactive steps towards remedying this dire situation, not even mustering the courage to seek assistance from the Arkansas Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watsons email to lawmakers said a prison capable of housing 1,000 inmates is needed in the western half of the state to serve as an intake facility so sheriffs in the region can reduce the cost of transporting prisoners to the states other prisons, most of which are in north central and south central Arkansas. The state also needs three to five 100- to 200-bed community correction facilities for nonviolent offenders and parole violators who can be treated for substance use and help build their support community to give them the ability to stay out of prison, Watson said. We need one in Fort Smith, two in Northwest Arkansas, and possibly more, Watson said. Their beds would also alleviate the county jail backup. They are less expensive than building prisons and provide community-based efforts for inmates to successfully function in their home communities. Arkansas has a 500 million-dollar problem, and a 1 billion-dollar 3,000 bed prison is not the solution, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, Vanir Construction Management, the consultant hired to oversee the new prison project, estimated the preliminary budget of a 3,000-bed facility at $825 million, but similarly sized prisons in other states have exceeded $1 billion. A $750 million appropriation for the Franklin County prison failed after five votes in this springs legislative session after pushback from legislators who represent the area and county residents. The General Assembly previously set aside $330 million for new prisons, and $75 million previously allocated for a prison expansion is being used by the corrections board. Watsons email references the $75 million, which was appropriated under former Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who appointed Watson to a six-year term on the board in 2020. The Legislature had authorized that amount to expand the 800-bed North Central Unit in Calico Rock by 500 beds. Due to increased construction costs from the time of that approval, approximately $50M or so additional funds were needed for that project, Watson wrote. Architectural and engineering work had been completed by late 2022, and all that was needed was to secure the additional funding to begin construction, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told the Advocate on Tuesday that the board had not hired a contractor when then-Corrections Secretary Joe Profiri in early 2023 stopped Department [of Corrections] efforts towards expansion of North Central, a community corrections facility and a new 1,000-bed facility. Had the Calico Rock expansion proceeded as planned, it likely would be completed by now, and our county jail backup would be down to 1,100, Watson said in his email. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Lingering dispute[/subhed} Sanders appointed Profiri, a former Arizona prison official, when she took office in January 2023. The board fired Profiri in January 2024 over a dispute about the additional prison space; Sanders hired him as a special adviser almost immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A month prior, the board sued to block enforcement of two laws it argued infringed on its constitutional authority. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (left) and Corrections Secretary Joe Profiri meet in the governors office on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023. (Photo courtesy of the Arkansas governors office) Sanders and her legislative leaders pushed for the two laws, which enhanced the governors control over the secretary of corrections and the secretarys control over the directors of the Department of Corrections correction and community correction divisions. The dispute lingers in the courts. The board won a preliminary injunction, which the state Supreme Court upheld in June after the attorney general appealed. A separate suit by Attorney General Tim Griffin alleging the corrections board violated the states Freedom of Information Act in hiring an attorney to represent it remains open after the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed a lower courts dismissal of the case in May. Watsons email also addressed the continuing dispute: If you wonder why the Board hasnt spoken up about this, keep in mind that the Board was designed to be a non-political body. The push for a facility with 3,000 beds is a political one. The Board shouldnt be involved in and avoids politics. Yet on this matter it was drug into the political fray. I can safely say that none of the Board members want to slow the construction of a new facility. Gilmore called Watsons non-political claim disingenuous given that the letters numerous inaccuracies speak to an intent to play political games. Beaty said Watson falls woefully short of grasping the deeper complexities driving the urgent necessity for increased prison capacity. Democratic Rep. Andrew Collins, co-vice chair of the Arkansas Legislative Councils Charitable, Penal and Corrections subcommittee, said Watson makes a compelling argument that a 3,000-bed prison is excessive, given our capacity needs. Collins said the state should prioritize other actions to address overcrowding than building more prisons, but a right-sized, cost-effective, targeted approach is certainly better than an ill-conceived and exorbitantly expensive one. Collins also questioned Arkansas expensive, ineffective approach to incarceration, which he said are often due to pre-trial delays and funding gaps. The states incarceration rate of 912 per 100,000 people is the highest in the world outside of non-democratic countries, according to the Prison Policy Initiative. Corrections Secretary Lindsay Wallace was out of town Tuesday and unavailable for comment, according to department spokesperson Rand Champion. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE WILLISVILLE, Ark. Arkansas State Police arrested a shooting suspect Tuesday afternoon in Nevada County after a pursuit and exchange of gunfire. According to investigators, the Nevada County Sheriffs Office responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting at a home on Arkansas Highway 200 around 4:55 p.m. in the Morris Community in South Nevada County. Arkansas State Police investigating after man killed in officer-involved shooting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies arrived, they said they found a 47-year-old man with life-threatening injuries. The man, who has not been named, was airlifted to a hospital in Louisiana. Investigators said Arkansas State Police and Highway Patrol then put out a BOLO for 35-year-old Daniel Wallace of Rosston, who was driving a 2012 white Chevy Tahoe. Troopers who were on their way to the area of the shooting then spotted the vehicle at a Waldo convenience store at around 6 p.m., which then led to a chase, according to investigators. During the pursuit, investigators said Wallace opened fire on troopers from his vehicle, who then exchanged gunfire. Investigators said Wallace then disabled two ASP Highway Patrol vehicles during the shootout before ASP Special agents arrived, yet Wallaces vehicle remained operational. The pursuit then continued on U.S. 371 going northbound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas State Police, Tennessee Highway Patrol team up for weekend operation, make multiple arrests Investigators said the pursuit then entered the Willisville community, where troopers returned fire at Wallace, who was then struck by a bullet, causing his vehicle to leave the highway and hit a tree. Wallace was taken into custody at 6:29 p.m. after a brief standoff. Wallace was airlifted to UAMS in Little Rock. No troopers were injured in 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 KARK. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. Police in Arlington Heights are alerting the public of a recent surge in vehicle-related crimes across the village and neighboring suburbs. According to the Arlington Heights Police Department, nine incidents have been reported over the past two weeks, including four vehicle thefts and five attempted thefts that caused damage to vehicles. Officials say the incidents have predominantly occurred during the evening and overnight hours and are not limited to one specific area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines The targeted vehicles have mostly been Hyundai and Kias, but Toyota and Ford vehicles were involved in two of the incidents. Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles. Police recommend parking in well-lit areas, locking vehicles, making sure keys and fobs are not left in vehicles, and considering the use of anti-theft devices. The Arlington Heights Police Department is still investigating. Anyone with information or to report a tip, contact the department at 847-368-5300 or Officer Chojnowski at jchojnowski@vah.com. Advertisement 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. YANGON, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar is hosting the 17th Meeting of the ASEAN Fisheries Consultative Forum (AFCF), along with the 33rd Meeting of the ASEAN Sectoral Working Group on Fisheries, from Tuesday to Friday, the state-owned daily The Mirror reported on Wednesday. The opening ceremony of the AFCF was held in Yangon on Tuesday. The forum aims to strengthen regional collaboration in the fisheries sector among ASEAN member states, the report said. The forum included the discussions of key issues such as managing fishing capacity through a zoning approach, promoting sustainable small-scale fisheries, enhancing fishery resource restoration efforts, assessing the impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture, combating illegal fishing, and developing traceability systems for fishery products, it said. Delegates from all ASEAN member states, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and the host country Myanmar, attended the forum, the report said. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) An Altoona burglary suspect who prompted a heavy police search was arrested in Texas, but is now back in Pennsylvania and housed at the Blair County Prison. Zachary Cooper, 38 (Image provided by the Altoona Police Department) Zachary Corey Cooper, 38, of Bellefonte, was returned to Blair County, where he faces six felony burglary charges and six felony conspiracy to commit burglary charges. Others include criminal trespassing, criminal mischief, theft, receiving stolen property and criminal attempt of theft, 34 felonies total. Court documents show that Cooper was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Benjamin Jones Wednesday morning and placed in Blair County Prison with bail set at $500,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wanted armed and dangerous man arrested in Texas, Altoona police report Altoona police previously reported that they were searching for Cooper after a string of burglaries in the Altoona area in March, including at The Altoona Laundromat, The Copper Coin, Simington Cleaners, Vapes and Skills and Rutters on Sabbath Rest Road. It was believed that Cooper was armed and dangerous. Police announced that three weeks after their search began for Cooper, he was taken into custody in Marshall, Texas, April 17. Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices. According to previous coverage, Altoona police told WTAJ that Cooper was also wanted by state police in Rockview and Lamar. You can read more on Cooper by clicking here for previous coverage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. A motorcycle officer who made traffic stops and was carrying a pistol and stun-guns was actually an impersonator with previous felony convictions, Southern California officials said. On Tuesday, the Hemet Police Department announced it had arrested Marshal Goodnight, a motorcyclist who was wearing a full police uniform, duty belt and a Glock-style pistol. Goodnight was stopped by real officers after he reportedly was seen activating emergency lights on his white motorcycle emblazoned with the words Traffic and Public Safety, and committing multiple vehicle code violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers noted the mans pistol and opted to detain him for safety reasons. During a search of his person and bike, they recovered two working stun-guns, a telescoping baton and a container of pepper spray. This image shows Marshal Goodnight (face blurred) when he was arrested on July 22, 2025. (Hemet Police Department) A composite image shows the police-styled motorcycle ridden by Marshal Goodnight when he was arrested on July 22, 2025. (Hemet Police Department) A composite image shows one of two stun-guns found in the possession of Marshal Goodnight when he was arrested on July 22, 2025. (Hemet Police Department) A composite image shows one of two stun-guns found in the possession of Marshal Goodnight when he was arrested on July 22, 2025. (Hemet Police Department) This composite image shows the multiple prohibited items that were allegedly in the possession of Marshal Goodnight when he was arrested on July 22, 2025. (Hemet Police Department) Not only was the man not a police officer, investigators later determined he was in fact a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms or other weapons. He is also not licensed to provide any security services through the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, officials said. Goodnight has since been arrested and booked on a complaint of impersonating a police officer and various weapons violations. Police did not say where in Hemet the arrest took place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search of the Riverside County jail system for the suspects name yielded no results, although its possible hes being held at the Hemet Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing, and police urge anyone with information to contact Hemet PD Sergeant Chavez at 951-765-2400 ext. 3725. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) An Army couple moved out of their home at Hunter Army Airfield (HAA) due to a mold problem, something they said staff could not adequately solve. Hannah Blondo and her husband, a helicopter technician at HAA, moved into their new home on the south side Saturday after airfield staff refused to take care of the conditions in their former home on base, Blondo told WSAV. The couple transferred to Hunter last October and immediately noticed peeling wallpaper that exposed black mold, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more we peeled away the paint, the bigger we saw the issue was, said Blondo. Effingham man in custody after barricading himself in home Blondo said staff patched over the mold, but the wallpaper quickly began to peel off again. She said the mold made her sick and caused an allergic reaction. Blondo told WSAV that a doctor even diagnosed her condition. Im not going to live off of Benadryl and Epi-pen all the time, she said. When she took her doctors note to airfield staff, they reportedly advised her to get an EpiPen. This was not an acceptable solution, she said. I specifically went by myself to the housing office and said, hey, this is whats happening, and this is unacceptable because I cant even walk in my own home or even be in my own kitchen without getting an allergic reaction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that even with proof staff, told her there was nothing more they could do. Youre telling me that Im showing you that Im allergic to this mold and have two medical records from the hospital and one from a minute clinic literally saying this could be because of the mold, said Blondo. How can you tell me that this is not enough evidence? Inmate convicted of raping, beating commissary worker After nine months, the couple left their home on base and moved into a south side residence. Blondo said she believes HAA is breaking the law. We have tenant rights to like in a clean and safe environment, and Im not even in a safe environment? How can you tell me youre not breaking the law of the tenant rights in Georgia? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blondo said she and her husband will rent out the home until his three-year contract is up, but in the meantime, the couple is trying to get compensation from HAA for the inconvenience. WSAV has reached out to HAA for a response, and a spokesperson told us they are looking into the situation and will provide a comment soon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The U.S. Armys head of aviation has changed jobs to become chief of the branchs enterprise marketing office, a move that comes before the National Transportation Safety Board holds hearings next week on Januarys midair collision between an Army helicopter and a commercial jet that killed 67 people. Brig. Gen. Matthew Braman became chief of the Army Enterprise Marketing Office this month to focus on advertising and boosting recruitment, according to his new bio on an Army website. An Army spokesperson said the plan to move Braman was in place last fall and had nothing to do with the tragedy. The NTSB will hold three days of hearings, starting next Wednesday, on the crash near Reagan Washington National Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Braman was among those who faced criticism from some in Congress following the collision over the Potomac River, which was the nations deadliest plane crash since November 2001. Braman acknowledged during a hearing in March that military helicopters were still flying over the nations capital with a key system broadcasting their locations turned off during most missions because it deemed them sensitive. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz called it shocking and deeply unacceptable after earlier complaining that the general wasnt answering his questions. Braman repeatedly evaded Cruzs questions during the hearing about whether he would provide a copy of a memo laying out the policy for when Army helicopters fly with their locators turned off. Braman said he wasnt sure he could provide the memo because it was part of the investigation, but the head of the NTSB assured him that would be okay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former NTSB and FAA crash investigator Jeff Guzzetti, who has followed the crash investigation and watched the hearing, welcomed the news that Braman is no longer leading the Armys aviation unit. Personally I think thats a good thing. That guy was just not playing ball in my view, Guzzetti said. He was too protective and defensive and evasive and secretive. And thats not what you need in this type of situation. Cruz, the Republican chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, said in April that troubling missteps since the crash underscore the precarious situation in the nations airspace. Expressing frustration with the Armys refusal to turn over a memo detailing its flight rules, Cruz said during the hearing that any deaths resulting from another collision near Reagan Airport will be on the Armys hands. He threatened the Army with a subpoena if it did not give the committee a copy of its memo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that system wasnt activated in the Black Hawk that collided with the passenger jet is a key concern investigators have highlighted. With the location system turned off, the tower had to rely on radar for updates on the helicopters position that only came once every four seconds instead of every second before the crash. It begs the question, what doesnt the Army want Congress or the American people to know about why it was flying partially blind to the other aircraft and to the air traffic controllers near DCA? Cruz said, using the airport code for Reagan. This is not acceptable. The Army spent around $30 million on the military parade to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which also fell on the day of President Trumps 79th birthday. I can confirm the total for the Army festival and parade cost approximately $30 million, an Army spokesperson told The Hill on Wednesday. The initial cost of the parade was estimated to be between $25 million and $45 million, not including police, damage to the city streets and cleanup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Approximately 6,700 soldiers, dressed in historic and modern uniforms, marched in the parade. The military showcased a wide range of equipment, including rolling tanks, tactical vehicles, aircraft and artillery weapons. The parade drew thousands of spectators. Authorities placed miles of fencing and were screening all of the people who got close to the area, either to participate in the events leading up to the parade or just to watch the parade. Trump held a brief speech where he expressed gratitude to those who served in the armed forces. Every other country celebrates their victories. Its about time America did, too. Thats what were doing tonight, Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watching this magnificent display, our souls are filled with gratitude for every generation of warriors who have worn the uniform back to the very beginning, the president later added. Due to concerns over lightning, the Army did cancel the planned flyover of F-22 fighter planes. But, other events took place, including U.S. Army Golden Knights parachuting in and helicopters, such as Apache and Black Hawk, flying near the National Mall. To our soldiers, were so proud of you. And let me tell you, the way that we honor and respect you, number one, we never ask you to go to war unless you absolutely have to, Vice President Vance said at the parade And number two, when we do ask you to go to war, we give you the weapons and the support needed to kick the hell out of the enemy and come back home safely, the vice president added. Advertisement 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. Col. Tyler Partridge began his career as a finance officer. During his first deployment to Iraq in 2003, he rode in ground convoys as Army helicopters buzzed overhead. This year, he is again deployed to Iraq, this time as the commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. Now a commander tasked with sending his own soldiers out on missions, Partridge said he recalls his time as a young officer on the ground in much more tumultuous Iraq. Though he knew nothing about aviation units, he remembered the reassurance that he felt when Army helicopters flew overhead for protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It hit different when you had helicopters supporting you on the ground, Partridge said. Fast forward, 22-plus years later, Im back over here in a far different capacity, in a different job, actually as an aviator and in charge of an aviation brigade and it dawned on me the opportunities for young officers and [non-commissioned officers] and soldiers trying to get to see that and learn that firsthand are fewer and far between. And so what Partridge calls the Air-to-Ground Initiative was born. Working with Col. Daniel Kearney, commanding officer of 10th Mountain Divisions 1st Brigade Combat Team, the two commanders agreed to exchange one soldier from each unit with the other for a week. One of Partridges pilots spent a week with a 10th Mountain infantry unit while a 10th Mountain mechanic shadowed along with 101st aviators, finding a newfound respect for the others job, and even culture shock. Its oftentimes hard to understand how the ground force lives, communicates, plans, whatever it may be. The same thing for our formation, Partridge said. Top Stories This Week News Army bids farewell to laundry specialists Army bids farewell to laundry specialists By Patty Nieberg News The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks By Matt White News Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad By Matt White Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the aviation side, Partridge sent Warrant Officer Colton Francis, an Apache helicopter pilot who originally enlisted as an infantryman. Francis said the exchange was a way for soldiers from both worlds to ask each other questions and understand what exactly it is they do a rare occurrence even when soldiers share a base or division. When I was in the infantry, Id look up and Id see Apaches or Black Hawks or any other aircraft, and I would have zero clue of what theyre doing. I just know that they have a helicopter that flies around the sky and theyre there for me, Francis said. We dont ever train with the conventional infantry guys. Even back home, its rare that we ever train with them besides, when we do, like a monthly operation called Operation Lethal Eagle back at [Fort Campbell, Kentucky]. Partridge said its a very common situation where units with both aviation and ground elements dont have the time to do these exchanges unless its very deliberate or a directive from higher up. For a week in June, Francis joined a platoon in the 10th Mountains 32nd Infantry Regiment and provided security for ground convoys traveling more than 1,000 miles throughout Syria. While traveling with the convoys, Francis said he fielded infantry soldiers questions on the weapon systems, tactics and lifestyle of Army aviation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They think theyre talking to a pilot up in the sky and they get all nervous on the radio to talk to a dude and not know what to say. I can totally understand that. I came from the same exact world, he said. At the end of the day, were all human beings. You tell me your location, where youre at and then where the bad guys you want us to take care of are at, and well take care of the rest up in the air. Thats just kind of what I overstated to them. Its not rocket science, just speak in plain English and well work out the rest. From the 10th Mountain side, Staff Sgt. Shaquille Wisdom volunteered to switch jobs for a week. A wheeled vehicle mechanic, Wisdom enlisted right after immigrating from Jamaica at 16 and finishing high school in the U.S. He became a mechanic because of his love of cars but has been considering moving to aviation. In May, Wisdom was assigned to the 101st Aviation Regiment, where he went on Black Hawk and Chinook training flights and shadowed their mechanics. Wisdom was previously assigned to aviation units at Fort Drum, New York and Wheeler Army Airfield, Hawaii, but he never got to interact with the pilots and see what they did. This opportunity gave him that and a bit of culture shock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their job is more dangerous than ours because theyre flying helicopters, he said. When theyre on mission, theyre more relaxed because they want everybody to be comfortable [If] youre in the air and somebodys not comfortable, then it can lead to problems. Going from a regimented infantry unit with Yes, sir. No, sir. Yes, maam. No, maam, he said, to an aviation unit where soldiers call each other by their last names. They can talk to each other without using rank. Everybody knows your rank already. We know who the higher rank is, were not gonna disrespect you, Wisdom said. Theyre completely fine with it because theyre all on the same page. But while Wisdoms appreciation grew for the dangers of aviation roles, Francis time with an infantry platoon deepened his respect for soldiers in his old infantry lifestyle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most thankless job in the military, I believe, is the infantry. They dont get the credit they deserve. Those guys are going outside the wire more than anybody out here at [U.S. Central Command]. Theyre getting little sleep. Theyre having the longest days, driving the longest distances, Francis said. It was really a reminder for me of where I started and my foundation to really appreciate where Im at now. Partridge said theyre looking to continue swapping soldiers during the rest of this deployment and continue once back home. I think that the Army is better off when our ground soldiers understand the perspective of aviators, and then our aviation element has a walk a mile in the boots of the ground forces theyre supporting, he said. The U.S. Armys top civilian leader said Tuesday that he wants to move more quickly on an agreement that will allow the military to continue using the only large-scale live-fire training range for ground forces in Hawaii. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll said he discussed the issue during a meeting with Hawaii Gov. Josh Green on Monday. The Army leases a key part of Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island from the state, and its contract to do so expires in 2029. It wants to be able to continue using the land so it can quickly send troops from Hawaii to Asia and the Pacific, something that is growing in importance as China becomes more assertive particularly regarding Taiwan, the self-ruled island that Beijing claims as its own territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A May public hearing on whether to extend the lease generated hours of testimony against allowing the Army to stay. Many Native Hawaiians and environmental activists upset with the U.S. militarys history of damaging Hawaiian lands with target practice and fuel leaks said they wanted the Army to return the land to the state. Driscoll told reporters the Army needs the Pohakuloa land, which sits on a rocky plateau about 6,200 feet (1,890 meters) above sea level between the Big Islands tallest volcanoes, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The world is changing. We all know this. The threat in Indo-Pacom is more real than ever before, Driscoll told reporters, referring to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, which overseas military operations in Asia and the Pacific. He said he wanted a more aggressive timeline to bake out these negotiations in the coming months, rather than waiting until 2027, 2028 and 2029. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This land matters to the United States Army. We have got to be able to train here, Driscoll said. The U.S. Air Force conducts an airdrop at Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, on Nov. 4, 2023. (Spc. Abreanna Goodrich/Army via AP) Driscoll said he asked Greens office for a list within the next few weeks of things the Army can do to help the community. What we are hoping to do is figure out ways where we, the Army, can continue to contribute to a community that has given so much to our Army and so much to our nation, while at the same time acknowledging the very real world threat that we are facing in the Indo-Pacific, Driscoll said. The Army says other live-fire training areas in Hawaii are too small to accommodate battalions and brigades. And commanders say they wouldnt be able to deter potential adversaries in the Indo-Pacific if they have to spend extra time transporting troops to the region from U.S. mainland training ranges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Green said he spent significant time on Monday speaking with Driscoll and his team. We will be exploring possibilities on the military leases together in the coming days and weeks, and he now better understands how important it is to us to work together for the good of Hawaiis people and our land, while we all work together protect our country, Green said in a statement. The governor said he updated Hawaiis congressional delegation on the meetings. Green said he would get the communitys input as we move forward. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda, a Democrat whose district includes rural Oahu and the Big Island, has said she wants the military to help increase Hawaiis housing supply and bolster Hawaiis water and sewer infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Healani Sonoda-Pale, a community organizer with the Native Hawaiian sovereignty group Ka Lahui Hawaii, said the state needs to look at how the Army is managing these lands. She said it would be irresponsible for negotiations to bypass that process. There shouldnt be any backdoor discussions regarding these leases, she said. Driscoll visited Hawaii during a Pacific trip that will also include stops in Australia and the Philippines. He spoke to journalists in front of two HIMARS rocket launchers, which are designed to deliver precision strikes to long-range targets. Hawaii-based soldiers with the 25th Infantry Division are due to receive 16 of the launchers, which the U.S. also supplied to Ukraine to help it defend against Russias invasion. Floating about 500 feet offshore of Illinois Beach State Park, Hillary Glandon tightened her scuba goggles, grabbed a small masonite plate from a nearby kayak and dove beneath the Lake Michigan surface. The masonite plate, called a Hester-Dendy sampler, helps biologists like Glandon scrape algae off underwater rocks. Just a few feet below the surface, she reached a huge underwater ridge made of limestone and other rocks piled into 750-foot rows parallel to the coast. On this dive in late June, a crew of four scuba divers ferried equipment back and forth between the kayaks and the underwater ridges, collecting sediment samples near the boulders and dropping off underwater cameras on the bottom of the lake. As the divers continued their work, a thick morning fog began to fade, giving way to clear blue waters. From the surface, schools of juvenile fish could be spotted drifting between patches of sunlight at the bottom of the ridges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These structures, called rubble ridges, arent just typical rocky reefs found on the bottom of the Great Lakes theyre entirely man-made. We just want to see, are these reefs impacting aquatic biodiversity as well as sediment retention? Glandon said. Were trying to get the whole picture of the aquatic community, and in order to do that, we need to sample in a lot of different ways. It allows us to not only look at the sediment but also the critters that are living in there. Man-made reefs have become a popular way to provide a habitat for fish in coastal communities. The rubble ridges, however, are also designed as a cost-effective tool to prevent erosion. Each ridge sits about 3 to 5 feet beneath the lakes surface, which allows them to block some of the energy and sediments carried by waves during intense winter storms. When these waves reach the coast, they dont hit the shoreline as hard, which slows the process of erosion. And the gaps between each ridge help to retain some sediment without fully stopping the natural flow of sand. The designers call it passive sand management, just to slow erosion down when its the worst, said Steve Brown, the Illinois state geologist. That was part of the idea a lower-cost offshore breakwater system. And were trying to see, does it work like the designers thought it would work? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Glandon and her team of biologists and geologists at the Lake Michigan Biological Station, a research station in Zion run by the University of Illinois, are studying the rubble ridges as part of a federally funded pilot project through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The initiative is a collaborative effort that provides funding to over a dozen federal agencies to protect the Great Lakes through infrastructure and lake monitoring projects. Installed at Illinois Beach State Park in 2021 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the ridges are being monitored along with another artificial reef at Fort Sheridan in Highland Park, as well as two control sites, about 2 miles south of each respective reef. In this part of Lake Michigan, just 3 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line, the lake bottom consists of a flat layer of sand, which doesnt usually attract invertebrates and smaller fish. But as Glandon descended onto the rocky ridge, she saw hundreds of fish, from species that tend to stay near the reef year-round like the round goby, to schools of younger migratory species like alewife that were using the ridge as a nursery habitat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By analyzing both biodiversity and shoreline changes at the reef, researchers are hoping to see whether this new kind of infrastructure could be scaled up as a tool for cities across the Great Lakes. Lake Michigan is a very dynamic place. It is always changing, and it always wants to change, and it always will change, said Philip Willink, a biologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey and an expert on natural reefs in Chicago. People dont like that change and are trying to hold the shoreline in stasis, when, in reality, nature wants to erode some shoreline But how do we put that into city planning? Tracking shoreline changes As Glandon and a crew of three other scuba divers and two kayakers ventured out to sample algae and sediments at the ridges, a few other researchers remained onshore to help handle equipment. It was the research teams first dive of the year, and biologist Scot Peterson could already spot the traces of erosion from the winters storms. Where a wooden boardwalk had once extended out over the beach, only a small chunk of wood remained, poking out from under a sand dune on a nearby roadbed. Strong waves had gradually weakened the structure over the past few years, and last year, the state park decided to remove it altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every time I come back, it feels like something has changed, Peterson said. Sights like these are common across the Great Lakes, and Lake Michigan in particular can be especially unpredictable, said Liz Spitzer, a coastal geologist with the Illinois State Geological Survey. The lakes levels tend to fluctuate from low to high in 10- to 30-year cycles, with levels usually reaching their annual peak during the summer. However, climate change is speeding up these fluctuations, experts say. In January 2013, Lake Michigan was at a record low. Just 3 years later, the lake had risen 4 feet and by July 2020, it nearly broke the record high. Lake levels have always fluctuated, but that has been over a period of decades. Now these shifts are happening within a few years. That variability is attributed to multiple factors, but increased precipitation from climate change is the driving force. Today, lake levels are hovering at about 579 feet, close to the lakes average. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Illinois Beach State Park, these fluctuations have taken a toll, causing extreme erosion along the coastline. Kellogg Creek, located just south of the rubble ridges, has flooded several times over the past few years, damaging one of the buildings that researchers at the Lake Michigan Biological Station used to store samples. The lake bed at the northern part of the beach has eroded away, leaving grass roots exposed as windswept dunes pile up behind the shore. In response, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources approved a massive breakwater installation project in 2019 for the state park. The state spent $73 million to install 22 breakwaters along a 2.2-mile stretch of the state parks shoreline, making it the largest capital project in IDNR history. According to a 2023 release about the breakwaters, the state intended the structures to guide and direct the movement of the sand instead of simply trying to prevent its movement. The breakwaters, made of stone, are angled slightly to the northwest to block storms that typically come from that direction. IDNR officials did not respond to requests for comment. The breakwaters, along with 430,000 cubic feet of sand that was added to bolster the beach, have helped rehabilitate the beach since construction finished in August 2024. The first chain of breakwaters ends just a few hundred feet north of the rubble ridges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With extreme erosion and other construction projects unfolding at the state park, Glandon said her team has had to deal with several confounding factors at this reef site. The rubble was actually supposed to be built a little bit north of where it currently is, and thats because the large breakwater project was in the process of being designed when the rubble was being implemented, Glandon said. They moved (the rubble) further south to accommodate those breakwaters. The monitoring project at Illinois Beach State Park began in 2021 and is set to wrap up next year. The other artificial reef site at Fort Sheridan has been monitored since 2023 under a different project funded by the Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. Researchers are comparing the results between the two sites, hoping to explain how reef systems function along different types of shorelines. The shoreline at Fort Sheridan consists mostly of rocky bluffs, and the lake bottom in that area is dotted with small boulders. Each spring, geologists have used drones to map the elevation of the bottom of the lake, allowing them to compare any changes in the lakes topography that happened during the winter storm season and see if the reefs are helping retain sediment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the research teams preliminary results, the Fort Sheridan reef has successfully helped to build up some sand. At Illinois Beach State Park, though, erosion has overall increased. Most of this erosion occurred between 2022 and 2024, with very little change happening at the site during the 2025 winter season. The sediment dynamics, that part of it is going to be very hard to make any conclusions without a huge asterisk, since they built these big breakwaters, Glandon said. But what were hoping to do is kind of zoom out with the geology story, and tell it from the perspective of before they built these big breakwaters and after. Were just trying to be nimble with the way were sampling. Starved of sand Illinois Beach State Park, which boasts the states longest continuous stretch of natural shoreline, is somewhat of an anomaly. The park takes up 6.5 of Illinois 63 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan, and the majority of this coastline consists of man-made structures, such as breakwaters or seawalls. This infrastructure is meant to help protect the urban coastline from eroding. However, its not how the shoreline naturally functions, according to Spitzer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along this stretch of the coast, the dominant current is generally coming from the north, going southward, she said. Over the past couple thousand years, with the direction of the dominant current, weve been seeing the sand moving southward over time. And then human activity adds an extra layer of complexity to that, because that compartmentalizes where the sand can go. The goal of most coastal protection structures, like seawalls, is to retain sand thats flowing through the lake. This helps build up extra sand along lakefront beaches and harbors, and lessens the impacts of erosion. Sand was already a scarce resource in southern Lake Michigan before humans began to build coastal infrastructure, according to a 2020 study conducted by Brown and other geological survey researchers, making sand retention in the area particularly vital. But man-made structures, which often run perpendicular to the shore, can also block the natural southward flow of sand. So while seawalls can build up sand in one location, a beach directly downstream of that seawall might face worse erosion as a result. Every time we create a structure, it stops the sand movement, and you get erosion downstream, said Brown. And so the real question is that we havent sorted out how to live along the lake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rubble ridges were designed to be an actively moving system, Glandon said as waves crash against the ridges over several years, researchers expect that some of the boulders will tumble to the bottom, flattening out over time. Since reef structures like the rubble ridges run parallel to the coast, they serve as somewhat of a middle ground they retain some sand near the coastline but still allow most of it to pass through. So as the sand moves downstream, it leaves more for lakefront properties to the south to use as they build up their own shorelines, helping distribute sediments more evenly across the lake. Thats part of the reasoning behind government investments in this project, Glandon said. Currently, most municipalities along the North Shore run their own coastal management programs and tend to build shoreline infrastructure like seawalls without consulting their neighbors. When one town builds a seawall, it creates a so-called domino effect that can starve neighbors of sand directly to the south, and usually the only solution is to build their own seawalls. When we have private land ownership, it can be tricky to manage sediment movement that occurs outside of those human-created bounds, Glandon said. Using infrastructure like artificial reefs, or other more natural designs, could help alleviate the need to build seawall after seawall. It also presents a relatively low-cost option installing the rubble ridges cost just over $1.4 million. One of the hopes of our program is to try to provide this quantitative data on the effects of these structures to give towns and local managers options for ways that they could potentially retain some sand in their areas without impacting their neighbors as much, Glandon said. Building biodiversity From the shores of Fort Sheridan and Illinois Beach State Park, the artificial reefs are invisible, hovering just beneath the surface. For aquatic creatures, though, these rocky reefs are a landmark, rising distinctly above the lake bottom. Most of the bottom of Lake Michigan is pretty flat. Its either sand or mud, with no real features, Willink said. But every once in a while, there are natural reefs out there, and these can be in shallow water, in deeper water, they can be from a variety of sources as well. Willink, the biologist who now works with the Illinois Natural History Survey at the University of Illinois, worked for many years at Chicagos Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium. There, he studied one of Chicagos most iconic underwater landmarks. Morgan Shoal, located just off the coast of Promontory Point by 53rd Street, is one of a handful of naturally occurring rocky reefs in Lake Michigan. This reef is actually a remnant of Chicagos ancient past, Willink said about 425 million years ago, the modern-day Great Lakes region was located south of the equator, submerged in a tropical sea that was home to several coral reefs. Though the regions latitude has shifted, traces like the rocky reefs remain on the bottom of the lake, providing an ideal habitat for fish. Morgan Shoal features a wide variety of nooks and crannies, Willink said, which provide habitats for a range of animals from large migratory fish to small invertebrates and worms. In the smaller spaces, thats where we found a lot of the aquatic insects and worms things which may not sound super exciting, but that is the bottom of the food chain, Willink said. This is the key, to have a variety of different habitats. When you do that, you create more of a larger variety of living spaces for a larger variety of species. And then ultimately, you end up with a higher biodiversity on the site. While natural reefs often provide more appealing habitats for fish, artificial reefs are also widely used for the same purpose, and have been shown to boost biodiversity. This has been shown at the rubble ridges, too. Both the Illinois Beach State Park and Fort Sheridan reefs showed a significant increase in fish populations and biodiversity when compared against the control site for each reef, according to preliminary data from the Lake Michigan Biological Station research team. The team tracks fish diversity with a number of different measures. During the June dive at Illinois Beach State Park, kayakers carried large aluminum frames, each with an underwater camera mounted in the middle, out to the reefs. Scuba divers carried these frames down to the reefs, where theyll remain for the rest of the summer season. The cameras are programmed to take a picture every five minutes, which helps scientists track the density and mass of the fish living on the reef. We see at the control sites, biomass is high, but abundance is low, versus at the reef sites, we have much smaller fish, Glandon said. We think its because this is showing that the reefs are nursery habitats for these fish. They also take samples of algae living on the underwater boulders that make up the reef, and collect sediments to see what types of invertebrates are living at the site. These invertebrates are the core of the food chain, attracting smaller fish in search of food sources. While fish and invertebrates do sometimes seek shelter around man-made breakwaters, Willink said theyre most attracted to natural structures that dont totally stop the flow of sand. Part of the key is that it isnt a dam to the sand, it doesnt hold the sand there, Willink said. If theres too much sediment, that would smother all these small places. As the reef monitoring project continues, so does the constant movement of sand. Despite humans best efforts to counter this, the currents of the lake are ever-changing and ever-powerful, scientists say. As lakefront communities have built containment structures along their waterfronts, this trend has remained the same even at established places like Illinois Beach State Park, waves surge above boardwalks, benches sink beneath sand, roadways are left to crumble in the face of encroaching shorelines. A lot of what were facing right now in the 21st century is, how do we deal with nature in urban areas? How do we live with nature next to us and allow nature to do its thing, and yet still maintain the infrastructure of a city? Willink said. And I think thats sort of an emerging field, trying to figure out how to deal with this sort of struggle between the two. Its not just restricted to Lake Michigan its everywhere. CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) TriStar Health and Ascension Saint Thomas have proposed new hospitals in the area. In order to move forward, both hospitals have to secure a certificate of need from the state. Theyre set to plead their case in a meeting on Wednesday morning. Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More Tennova currently serves as the hospital and emergency room in Clarksville. They recently wrote a letter to the state opposing the new hospitals. But TriStar and Ascension are doubling down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both hospitals say theyve already received an overwhelming amount of community feedback, and this is a collaboration between them and the people of Clarksville. Ascension Saint Thomas is orchestrating a caravan to the meeting at Cordell Hall from Clarksville. TriStar Health leaders are also providing free transportation at the Mosaic Church campus. Both Ascension Saint Thomas and TriStar hospital leaders said theyre focused on bringing state-of-the-art care to an area thats underserved, and they want to do it side by side with the people of Clarksville. Ascension St. Thomas President and CEO Fahad Tahir said they wanted to eliminate any barriers people would have of traveling into Nashville, and this is an easy and convenient way of making sure everyone in the community stays part of this decision process. Tahir said Ascension St. Thomas has hosted three town hall sessions, and theyve seen upwards of 150 people in attendance to express their thoughts on the hospital. He said theyve been doing everything they can to continue garnering community support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People want to be heard and people deserve to be heard, Tahir said. We felt like it was our responsibility to make this as easy, convenient and coordinated for people so we can have a higher likelihood of people attending and having their voices heard. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Senior Vice President of Strategy and Development for TriStar Health, David Whelan, said that ahead of Wednesday mornings proposal to the state, theyve received over 2,000 written letters supporting the TriStar hospital including in places like Fort Campbell, where theyre hoping to get support from Clarksvilles veteran and military community. Ascension Saint Thomas is asking everyone to meet at the Park & Ride lot off Exit 11. Across the street from 751 South Gateway Plaza Blvd., Clarksville. The meeting time for the caravan is 7 a.m., and the departure time is 7:30 a.m. Leaders said anyone who does not want to join the Clarksville caravan can meet outside the Cordell Hull State Office Building anytime after 8 a.m. TriStar leaders are asking everyone to meet at 8 a.m. on the Mosaic Church campus. Do you have news happening in your neighborhood? Let us know by sending an email to neighborhoodnews@wkrn.com. Advertisement 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 WKRN News 2. Seven months ago, staff at the Mystic Mountain Training Center in Cambridge Springs were left to pick up the pieces after an electrical fire reduced their horse barn to mere rubble. And for a place that specializes in horse riding lessons, not having a horse barn quickly became a big issue. Our horse barn was completely burnt when we got here, which was just before the fire department did. It was knee-high, a two-story barn all the way burnt to the ground, nothing. Thankfully, all of the horses were outside, said Marie Olczak, assistant director and event coordinator at Mystic Mountain Training Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not only did Olczak and her family lose the barn, but all of the saddles, stirrups and riding equipment that was inside. Campaign launched to rebuild Mystic Mountain barn lost in fire But just two months later, they started rebuilding, and thanks to donations and help from volunteers, a new barn was finished two months after that, just in time for the training centers summer camps. It happened in the dead of Winter, and we cant have horses just outside all the time, said Olczak. But then we had summer camp starting the last week of June, and so we had to make sure the horses were used to the new barn, moved into their new home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that the new barn has been constructed, Mystic Mountain is back to its usual business, and much of that is thanks to the volunteers who dedicate their time to the nonprofit. A group of teen volunteers have been using their free time to show young horseback riders the ropes, and they said its the people and spiritual connections on mystic mountain that keep them coming back. Second Harvest Food Bank thanks volunteers with appreciation luncheon I keep coming back because I just love the community here, I love building my relationship with everybody here, building my relationship with god, said Erin Latimer, teen volunteer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just stay because of the community and the people. Theyre like my family here and then I also have grown a lot spiritually and I like teaching the kids about horses and about God, said Mackenzie Rossi, another teen volunteer. Mystic Mountain Training Center has a 100% volunteer staff and offers a number of summer programs like horseback riding, canoeing and archery. If you would like to learn more about Mystic Mountain and the programs they offer, you can find their 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. By Nazrin Abdul Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister, Elnur Mammadov, has paid an official visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia to further strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries. According to information, the visit featured the 4th round of political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Azerbaijan and Cambodia. The meeting was co-chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov and Cambodias Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Khuon Phon Rattanak. During the consultations, both sides reviewed the current state of bilateral relations and discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in political, economic, humanitarian, and other fields. Deputy Minister Mammadov provided detailed insights into the regional situation, including ongoing de-mining operations and reconstruction efforts in the territories liberated from occupation. The talks also covered collaboration in international organizations, including within the framework of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Cambodia is a member. On July 22, Elnur Mammadov met with Cambodias Minister of Tourism, Huot Hak. Both sides highlighted the significant tourism potential of their respective countries and stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in the sector. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism between the governments of Azerbaijan and Cambodia. As part of the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation also held meetings with Vong Soth, Vice President of the National Assembly of Cambodia; Khy Sovanratana, Secretary of State and head of the Cambodian Diplomatic Academy (NIDIR); and Ms. But Rotna, Executive Director of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC). A special meeting was also held with Cambodian alumni who studied in Baku during the 1980s and 1990s. The participants welcomed the proposal to establish an AzerbaijanCambodia Friendship Association, which received support from the Cambodian side. At the conclusion of the visit, Deputy Foreign Minister Mammadov met with representatives of Cambodias leading media outlets to discuss the current state and future prospects of AzerbaijanCambodia relations, answering questions from local journalists. This visit marks an important step in deepening bilateral ties and opening new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors. NEW DELHI, July 23 (Xinhua) -- At least nine people were killed and a few others feared trapped after a portion of a coal mine collapsed in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand, officials said Wednesday. The collapse took place on Tuesday night. Experts say the coal mining industry is poorly regulated, and workers with little protection often face life-threatening situations. ASHTABULA City council decided to table the repeal and replacement of a zoning moratorium at a Monday meeting. The moratorium applies to small box retail and discount stores. It was one of 11 moratoriums passed by council in May, so the city could conduct a zoning study. Council leaders were interested in reworking it after complaints from a local property owner. Council Vice President Russel Simeone said he found the language in the original moratorium to be vague, and there should be a definition for a small box store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ashtabula Fire Department Fire Marshal and Captain Steve Chase said the moratoriums are helpful for the city while it works out its zoning. Chase agreed there was some vague wording in the resolution. I am actually amazed that the state of Ohio doesnt have a definition of small box store, he said. Chase encouraged council to not completely remove or carve out exceptions for any of the moratoriums, saying they will help the city develop its zoning, he said. [Zoning] lets you make the city what you want it to be, he said. Chase urged council members to ask themselves what they want the city to look like in 20 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats what the whole idea of making zoning is, he said. Its to plan for the future. Its not where we are now. The moratorium is simply here to put a pause on those ones we dont want just running around here that weve had for way too long. Council decided to send the resolutions repealing and replacing the moratorium to the citys economic development committee. City Manager Jim Timonere announced the citys Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area in the Harbor will be in place at the end of this week. Itll be live and ready to roll by Friday, he said. A DORA is a specified area a local legislative authority has designated as exempt from certain open container provisions, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timonere became interested in having a DORA in the city after Geneva implemented one. Council took the necessary steps to apply for one, and the city was waiting on the Ohio Liquor Control Boards approval. We did get approval, but we decided, lets wait until the Wine and Walleye Festival to kick this off, Timonere said. The DORA will be in effect from 10 a.m.-11 p.m., and extends from Fire! Chicken to the Bum Boat, covering roughly 16.6 acres, he said. Participating restaurants will be provided with compostable DORA cups patrons can use to take alcoholic beverages outside the business. There will be stickers at stores in the DORA area informing people if they are participating establishments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timonere said signage will mark the boundaries of the DORA. The city has been reaching out to the offices of Congressman David Joyce and U.S. Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted about the lack of staffing at the Ashtabula Coast Guard station. Timonere has heard back from all their offices on the situation, he said. Timonere, city staff and the city fire chief met with representatives of the Coast Guard after reaching out to the organization. Right now, they are telling us for at least the next two to three years, dont expect the station to be manned, he said. Coast Guard representatives were blunt with the city, Timonere said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [They] flat out said the administrations priority is the southern border, so most of the men and women of the United States Coast Guard are on the southern border right now, he said. The Ashtabula County YMCA, with whom the city contracts for lifeguards at Walnut Beach, has had trouble recruiting, Timonere said. Were the only guarded beach in the county, and its being guarded sometimes right now, he said. They did assure me that at the end of the month that they had another class that was finishing. Timonere said he reached out to other local and regional institutions about lifeguards, and they are having similar troubles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Council approved a $691,700 agreement with GPD Group for engineering and bid services for the citys capital improvement plan. The transfer of $358,488.89 from the general fund to the water pollution control capital improvement fund to buy a sewer jet was approved. Council approved an $1,388 agreement with CAPP Steel Erectors, for additional work by the accessible playground recently installed at Walnut Beach, installing handicapped-accessible parking spaces. Council voted to hire Maria Sharp to be a patrol officer for the city. MIAMISBURG, Ohio (WDTN) A new senior care facility is coming soon to Miamisburg. Miamisburg officials and business leaders came together during a groundbreaking ceremony for Gigis Place, a new assisted living facility that will be located at 2820 Spring Valley Road. Yellow Springs woman successfully swims English Channel The facility is aiming to offer a fresh alternative to care facilities, offering personalized care in a residential setting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gigis Place isnt just another assisted living facility; its a true home where seniors will live like family, said Julie Winters, owner, and operator. Plans include a 9,000-square-foot facility that will accommodate 16 residents, each with a private bedroom and bathroom. The facility will also maintain a 1:5 caregiver to resident ratio with caregivers offering 24/7 support. Gigis Place is set to open in the second quarter of 2026. To follow along with construction or learn more, 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 WDTN.com. Video released Tuesday by the New York Immigration Coalition gives a first look inside some of the holding cells of New York City's federal immigration offices. It shows men sleeping on the floor on thin thermal blankets. At one point, a man is heard saying, "Look how they have us ... like dogs in here." There are reports the lights are kept on around the clock and nearly 30 people share a single toilet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joan Paul Alcivar De La Cruz was held at the facility for several days last month before being sent to Jackson Parish Correctional Center in Louisiana. His wife, Samara De La Cruz, told CBS News he was fed just a sandwich and bottle of water each day while at the New York facility. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin says detainees were "briefly" held at the New York City facility, and that "any claim that there is overcrowding or subprime conditions at ICE facilities are categorically false." Samara said her husband was fleeing persecution in Ecuador and it wouldn't be safe for him to return there. She said he was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement at his asylum hearing, a tactic ICE has been using amid the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal immigration that is facing legal challeneges. "He did not deserve any of this. He did not. He made sure he followed all the laws. He went to all his immigration courts. He's never been arrested. He's never had any criminal record," Samara said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She's an American citizen. The two were married in May. Samara was pregnant at the time of her husband's arrest, but went on to have a miscarriage, which she blames on the stress of her husband's detention. "It was kind of, uh, very traumatic for me," she said. But even though Joan was moved to a different facility, Samara says she fears for her husband's life, saying he's been denied life-saving medication for a liver condition at both detention centers. McLaughlin has said all ICE detainees are provided with proper meals and medical treatment. "He said he requested to go to the hospital multiple times. They just ignored him like turned their back and pretended like he didn't say anything," Samara told CBS News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said despite the danger of him being deported to Ecuador, she's even more afraid of him remaining in the detention facility. "Because he's suffering in there. You know, he's in so much pain. If they continue what they're doing and not giving him what he needs, he's going to die in there," she said. Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 How Coca-Cola's cane sugar switch could reshape soda market More homes on the market could signal hope for buyers Keri Rodrigues, president of the National Parents Union, speaks at a rally on Friday, March 14, 2025, in Washington, D.C, protesting the U.S. Education Departments mass layoffs and President Donald Trumps plans to dismantle the agency. (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom) The U.S. Supreme Court last week ruled the Trump administration could continue dismantling the Department of Education. Waves of firings halted by a lower court could now resume, it seems, until all 1,400 employees are gone. The department oversees billions for schools, for civil rights actions, for a federal student loan program, for education access. In other words, the common good. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the latest public institution under assault by people obsessed with destroying any semblance of a common good. This tension between Americas soaring ideals and its cruel realities has existed as long as the country has. Congress established the department back in 1979, and closing it not only would require an act of Congress, but likely supermajority votes. If this fight sounds familiar, its because it has historical roots. A June NPR podcast, The First Department of Education, whisked listeners to the 1830s as a common school movement developed in the Northeast. Nativist fears about Irish Catholic immigrants propelled the effort. Proponents believed education could reverse increasing societal fragmentation. This might help unify the country under a common system free public school in every state not just for education, but also for citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Future President James Garfield in 1866 called education one of governments most economical expenditures. A tenth of our national debt expended in public education 50 years ago would have saved us the blood and treasure of the late war, Garfield said, according to the podcast. A far less sum may save our children from still greater calamity. Congress created the department, but it lasted only about a year, dragged down by claims education represented a waste of money, that it undermined local control and that the word education didnt appear in the Constitution. The South, according to the podcast, considered education dangerous. The Black population represented a majority or near majority in a handful of Southern states, and withholding education offered an effective means of social control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The podcast also pointed out that Southerners seemed more vulnerable to demagoguery because of a lack of education. Withholding education as social control fits a historical pattern. Any common good seemingly must weather accusations of wastefulness. This push for individualism benefits the wealthy minority at the expense of a hardscrabble majority. The strategy crystallizes though todays performative cruelty. Crushing empathy is necessary to stamping out a sense of common good, whether education, voting rights, or universal health care (opposed by rich politicians on public health care). Increasing waves of politicians exalt qualities that should disqualify them as public officials: a mistrust of government, demonizing opponents, and supporting private schools with public money. These qualities should stand as barriers to candidacy, not bona fides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Countless candidates promote themselves as CEOs, but governments arent corporations. Governments exist for the common good. Wichita State University associate professor of sociology Chase Billingham said this rugged individualism, marked by minimal social obligations, remains a bedrock principle for those leaning right. He said the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher once argued there was no such thing as a society. Our government, our social safety net and some of our most treasured institutions, like public libraries, public schools and public media are all antithetical to that radical individualism, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such institutions represent a kind society, but they face extinction or significant weakening, he said. The result will be a society characterized by self-interest and self-centeredness a mean society. Increasingly, treasured resources will be available exclusively to those who can pay for them, he said. And as we lurch toward Thatchers ideal, even the most ardent conservatives will find that they dont enjoy the actual experience of living in that world. Until Gov. Laura Kelly ascended to Cedar Crest, Kansas routinely underfunded public education, and right now, extremists in the Legislature want to send public money into private schools via school vouchers. That will neither promote the general welfare nor secure any blessings of liberty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you hate government and youre indifferent to human suffering, you shouldnt run for office. Attacking public education constitutes an attack on our societal fabric. We need people who believe in government, not hateful bureaucrats eager to scrap crucial institutions people depend on for upward mobility if not basic survival. Its called public service for a reason. Mark McCormick is the former executive director of the Kansas African American Museum, a member of the Kansas African American Affairs Commission and former deputy executive director at the ACLU of Kansas. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary, here. Attorneys: William McNeil Jr. to speak Wednesday about officer beating captured on viral video Two viral videos have put an officer in Jacksonville under the microscope and taken him off patrol, at least for now. Officer D.J. Bowers has been placed on administrative leave after video surfaced showing him punching William McNeil Jr. during a traffic stop, even after other officers had already restrained McNeil. Its the second time in less than six months that Bowers has faced scrutiny for use-of-force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In both cases, the incidents went viral and now, civil rights groups are calling for a federal investigation. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office said the latest incident is under review and the results will be released once the investigation is complete. Within days of McNeils arrest video going viral, the State Attorneys Office said it determined Bowers had not committed a crime. Attorneys for McNeil, 22, say hell be joined Wednesday morning by family and members of the community at a news conference. Civil rights attorneys Harry Daniels and Ben Crump are scheduled to speak on the incident at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Church of Jacksonville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 9 will be monitoring that news conference and will bring you the latest starting on Eyewitness News at Noon. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Millions of dollars in funding for an Oregon preschool program have been wasted or mismanaged, according to state watchdogs. An audit released by the Oregon Secretary of States office on Wednesday revealed that $1.4 million in grants for Preschool Promise were considered to be wasteful by investigators, while another $1.5 million in payments were determined as improper in some way. 2 high response areas in Salem could see new approaches to public safety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not to be confused with Multnomah Countys Preschool for All, Preschool Promise is a statewide effort that aims to offer high-quality child care services to lower-income families. PSP was previously managed by the Oregon Department of Education, but the Department of Early Learning and Care took over when the agency launched in July 2023. DELC pays for eligible childrens enrollment in preschools. As a result, service providers are required to maintain a certain number of enrollments in order to receive grant money. Auditors launched an investigation into the program after someone sent a complaint to the Government Accountability Hotline, claiming that program leaders failed to enforce the enrollment requirements. The complainant also raised suspicions that some grantees had submitted illegitimate expense reports. Waste is defined as the act of using or expending resources carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose, according to Oregons Government Accountability Office. Investigators determined that administrators did, in fact, waste a portion of state funding with $679,836 of the waste tied to low enrollment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kotek calls for special legislative session amid ODOT layoffs, transportation crisis More than $154,000 was allocated toward several preschool sites that hadnt opened, while $586,950 would have been allocated toward grant extensions from 2022 to 2023. The Secretary of States office noted that these funds account for about 1% of PSPs payments from 2021 to 2024, but they would have helped officials provide services for another 100 children in addition to the 13 participants who received child care. As a dad, I know quality child care is hard to find, much less afford, which is why its frustrating when programs like this arent delivering as much as they can, Secretary of State Tobias Read said in a release. Accountability for Preschool Promise and maximizing that program is about doing right by our kids. Oregonians are depending on us to step up and take action. Along with the wasteful funds, investigators discovered about $1.5 million in improper payments to a provider that hadnt submitted expense reports on time within a three-year period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poor controls in the program increase the risk for fraud or other improper payments. Portland-area residents flock from Washington, California Of the several recommendations that auditors proposed to DELC Executive Director Alyssa Chatterjee, officials suggested that the department establish enhanced monitoring practices for the sites that have low enrollment. Watchdogs also directed officials to develop a training program so providers are aware of their reporting requirements. Chatterjee agreed or partially agreed with all of the recommendations, noting that PSP staffing has not kept pace with the rapid growth of services. Advertisement 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. SEOUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's births grew for the 11th straight month due to higher marriages, statistical office data showed Wednesday. The number of newborn babies climbed 3.8 percent from a year earlier to 20,309 in May, continuing to go up since July last year, according to Statistics Korea. The total fertility rate, or the number of children a woman is expected to bear during life, added 0.02 to 0.75 in the cited month, but it stayed far below the replacement rate of 2.1 births per woman to maintain a stable population. The number of marriages rose 4.0 percent to 21,761 in May on a yearly basis, but the number of divorces decreased 6.4 percent to 7,413. Concerns remained about the younger generation who delayed or gave up on having children owing to economic difficulties such as high housing prices and stubborn unemployment. The still low birth rate fueled worry about a demographic cliff, which refers to a sharp fall in the heads of households, eventually leading to a consumption cliff. The number of deaths was almost unchanged at 28,510 in May compared to the same month of last year. Affected by the still high deaths and relatively low births, the natural population decline reached 8,202 in the cited month. SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australia has paid the United States A$800 million ($525 million) in the second instalment under the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, despite an ongoing formal review of the agreement by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the latest instalment on Wednesday, following an initial $500 million paid in February. In 2023, the United States, Australia and Britain unveiled details of a plan to provide Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines from the early 2030s to counter China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific. Australia committed to spend A$368 billion over three decades in its biggest-ever defence deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canberra is due to pay the U.S. $2 billion by year-end to support the expansion of American submarine shipyards, Reuters reported in April. There's a schedule of payments to be made. We have an agreement with the United States as well as with the United Kingdom, it is about increasing their capacity, their industrial capacity, Albanese told national broadcaster ABC. As part of that as well, we have Australians on the ground, learning those skills. Trump launched a formal review of AUKUS in June to examine whether the pact met his "American First" criteria. It will be led by Elbridge Colby, who in the past has expressed skepticism about AUKUS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Australia, which sees the submarines as critical to its own defense as tensions grow over China's military buildup, has maintained it is confident the pact will proceed. We support AUKUS," Albanese said. We have an agreement to a treaty level, with our partners, signed, of course in San Diego with the United States and United Kingdom." Washington will sell several Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, while Britain and Australia will later build a new AUKUS-class submarine. ($1 = 1.5230 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Christine Chen in Sydney; Editing by Praveen Menon and Sharon Singleton) SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Authorities Tuesday evening released more information on a fiery crash in Poway that left five people dead Friday afternoon. The San Diego County Sheriffs Office reports three vehicles were involved in the deadly crash that happened at 12:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, on State Route 67, north of Iron Mountain Drive and east of the city of Poway. Five people die in crash near Poway that sparked a brush fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs department reports a Chevy Silverado pickup truck was traveling north when, for reasons still under investigation, the driver crossed into oncoming traffic at a high-rate of speed. The pickup truck collided head-on with a white Honda Civic with one person inside that was heading south on SR-67, while a Toyota Tacoma with three people inside was unable to stop and collided with the Honda Civic, the sheriffs department reports. Family mourns father and son lost in Poway crash that killed 5 The force of the collision sent one vehicle down a ravine and sparked a small brush fire along the highway that was quickly doused by firefighters but heavily damaged the vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs department reports all five people in the three vehicles died at the scene. Three vehicles were heavily damaged, with two of them nearly completely destroyed by flames (FOX 5/KUSI) Detectives are investigating what caused the pickup truck to veer into oncoming traffic and are reviewing video they received from a passing Tesla that shows the pickup truck hit the other vehicles head-on in the opposite lanes of traffic. While the family has since identified two of the victims Marcial Rivera, 59 and his son, Emmanuel Rivera, 32 and has set up a GoFundMe and is planning a Sunday fundraiser, the names of the other three victims have yet to be released by authorities. Anyone with more information is asked to call the Poway Sheriffs Station at 858-513-2800. Advertisement 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 5 San Diego & KUSI News. ZION, Ill. (WGN) The search for a teen who disappeared while swimming in Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park near Zion concluded Wednesday, with authorities saying that the 14-year-old boy has not yet been located. Officials say their search effort is now a recovery mission. The Lake County Sheriffs Office said a 14-year-old boy went under water Tuesday afternoon and did not resurface. Officials told WGN-TV that at least 15 different departments from both Illinois and Wisconsin responded to the scene when the original call for help was made at around 4 p.m. on July 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, the teen was swept away after he was hit by a wave while standing in water about waist or thigh-high. SkyCam 9 flew over the scene and saw law enforcement boats in the water, along with law enforcement personnel on the beach. The sheriffs office added that one of their boats was launched, and numerous drones were also flying over the search area. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Multiple fire agencies were also on scene, and the Coast Guard also came to help, according to investigators. (Photo: SkyCam 9) Fire officials later told WGN-TV the search is now a recovery mission. Officials also stated that the boy was at the beach with his father and was in shallow water when a wave may have struck him, although the details surrounding the incident are unclear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a release shared Thursday morning, crews offered an update on the recovery effort, adding that they would be running sonar-capable boats to mark possible recovery locations in the water. Dive teams will then retrace the boats steps and search in the marked locations. His father was here with the little ones and his father took his eye off his son who was out in the water. By the time he recognized that his son was out in the water, he had disappeared, witness Paula Myrie said. He round up people to start going in and jumping in the water, but it was too late. Officials stated that the victim was entering his freshman year of high school and was from Wisconsin. His drowning was the first at Beach Park this summer, and authorities say they hope its the last. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our sympathy goes out to the family and friends of the victim. This is a deeply saddening event that also bothers the rescuers involved. We are all doing what we can to bring this young man back to his family, a spokesperson for the Beach Park Fire Department 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 WGN-TV. The 2024 death of an Alabama man whose neck was kneeled upon by a police officer has been ruled a homicide, according to an autopsy report. Phillip Reeder, 53, died of restraint during an altercation and hypertensive heart disease associated with cocaine use, the Jefferson County Coroner Medical Examiner's Office report said. He suffered abrasions on the head, torso and extremities; contusions and abrasions on the wrist compatible with handcuffs; and brush burn abrasions of the head and knees, the report noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reeder was detained by Irondale Police Department officers on Highway 78 on Aug. 4, 2024. To "control" Reeder, police "utilized a controlled electrical weapon and restrained him," according to the autopsy report. Mike Wukela via AP - PHOTO: This undated photo shows Sandra Lee Reeder and her husband, Phillip Reeder, who was killed, Aug. 4, 2024, after a police officer restrained Phillip Reeder by pressing a knee to his neck. Reeder had been reportedly running in the road and Irondale Police were called on a mentally disturbed person. Police fire at him with a stun gun and then restrained him before he became unresponsive, according to the report. When police encountered Reeder, he was "combative," the report said. The stun gun was not fully effective and police had to physically restrain him in order to put him in handcuffs, the report said. While he was restrained, Reeder became unresponsive and Irondale Fire and Rescue responded to the scene, according to the report. Reeder was then taken to an emergency department, but despite efforts to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead, the report noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Teen suspected of killing Maine paddleboarder charged with murder There were injuries on Reeder's body from the struggle with first responders and the subsequent resuscitative efforts, the autopsy report said. "Although likely painful, the blunt force injuries alone would not account for Mr. Reeder's death. The injuries would have caused catecholamine release which would have been further exacerbated by the exertion from restraint," the autopsy said. "Given his heart disease, he would be more at risk for developing a dysrhythmia (a kind of heart attack) and the likelihood of a dysrhythmia is increased when a stimulant drug, such as cocaine, is in the blood. The combination of his heart disease, cocaine, injuries and exertion from the altercation are the best explanation for Mr. Reeder's death," the report said. Mike Wukela via AP - PHOTO: This undated photo shows Sandra Lee Reeder and her husband, Phillip Reeder, who was killed, Aug. 4, 2024, after a police officer restrained Phillip Reeder by pressing a knee to his neck. Reeder's "simple mental health crisis led to police killing this unarmed grandfather" who owned a construction company and was "unarmed in the midst of a mental health crisis" in a suburb outside of Birmingham, his family said in a statement to ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Instead of medical personnel, IPD officers responded to the scene and tased the unarmed Reeder without making any attempt to deescalate the situation," Reeder's family said. "Officers restrained the bloodied Reeder with one officer putting his knee on Reeders neck while Reeder repeatedly called out that he couldnt breathe. When the officer finally removed his knee from Reeders neck, the 53-year-old was unresponsive," the family said. Harry Daniels, an attorney for Reeder's wife, said that members of the family saw a video of the arrest that has not been released publicly and said Reeder told officers he could not breathe. Daniels compared Reeder's killing to George Floyd's death. That incident, which was ruled a homicide, sparked widespread backlash after a video went viral of then-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on Floyds neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds on May 25, 2020. ABC News has not independently viewed the video to verify the family's account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This was a act against humanity, what happened on that day," Daniels said of Reeder's death at a press conference. "He begged and pleaded for his life." "For three minutes, a knee was on the back of his head," Daniels said. "When they rolled him over he had no pulse." The City of Irondale and the Irondale Police Department do not agree with the characterization of events by Ms. Sandra Reeder regarding the death of Phillip Reeder. Officers did hold Mr. Reeder to the ground using their arms only. No knee was placed in the back of his neck, and no excessive force was used. Mr. Reeder stopped resisting, and the officers realized that he had stopped breathing. They immediately turned him over, checked for a pulse and began CPR until the paramedics arrived. GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) Its going to be another beautiful day in the Grand Valley! Today will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid-nineties. Tonight, partly cloudy skies will move in with overnight lows sitting in the mid-to-upper sixties. Slight breezes are expected, but nothing major as far as wind for Grand Junction. Terrain-based showers and thunderstorms continue this week with many storms producing gusty outflow winds with small hail possible in the stronger storms. Wetting rains will become less likely as the week progresses. A warmer, drier air mass gradually moves in for the latter half of the week. Localized critical fire weather conditions in low elevation desert valleys become more widespread by the weekend. While shower activity has died down significantly for the western slope, a few light isolated showers remained near the Continental Divide from southern monsoonal moisture. That will continue to push into the higher elevations along the Rocky Mountains almost all the way up to southern Wyoming. As with the last several days, the main concern with storms isnt the rain but the wind. As wind speeds around higher elevations pick up, mixing with the hot dry air could lead to fire spread potential. Speaking of fires, heres an updated fire watch report. Significant progress has been made containing the Sowbelly fire. While it has burned 2,274 acres as of last report, it is 83 percent contained. The Deer Creek fire remains the largest fire in the area at 17,304 acres; it is now 77 percent contained. The South Rim Fire at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has burned over 4,200 acres and remains at 31 percent contained. The Turner Gulch Fire has once again expanded to 16,850 acres as of last report, and is only 37 percent contained. Overall, expect a hot summers day today! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. House Bill 577 allows property owners in New Hampshire to construct detached accessory dwelling units, building on the 2016 law that first permitted attached versions of those units by right. (Photo by Linda Yolanda/Getty Images) A year after making housing a central plank of her campaign for governor, Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed 10 bills last week attempting to put limits on local zoning restrictions in order to encourage more housing construction. The bills, many bipartisan, have been cheered on by those arguing that developers have been hampered by overly restrictive city and town zoning codes, keeping the states housing supply low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hot housing summer, said Rep. Joe Alexander, a Goffstown Republican and the chairman of the House Housing Committee, in an interview. We have had enormous success getting some critical pieces of housing legislation through. But some advocates have said lawmakers could have done more to address housing this year, noting a lack of new state funding toward housing reforms and the defeat of some bills they say could have helped. Heres which bills Ayotte signed into law and which ones did not make it out of the Legislature. A major expansion of accessory dwelling units One of the most significant bills signed by Ayotte last week could allow homeowners in New Hampshire to help ease the housing shortage in their own backyards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Bill 577 allows property owners in New Hampshire to construct detached accessory dwelling units, building on the 2016 law that first permitted attached versions of those units by right. That earlier law provided landowners the right to construct those units as long as they adjoined an existing home and included an interior door between the principal dwelling unit and the attached unit. The 2025 law has looser restrictions. It requires towns and cities to permit either an attached unit or a detached unit, provided the construction meets existing zoning requirements. And it does not require an interior door. Alexander says he has heard from constituents and others who have been waiting on the law in order to move ahead on construction of detached accessory dwelling units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ADUs are hopefully going to start building today, he said. Residential and commercial housing zones move forward Ayotte also signed a bill last week that could transform some downtown areas. House Bill 631 requires cities and towns to allow multi-family residential development in commercial zones with some restrictions allowing for the possibility of mixed-use housing developments. Under the new law, local planning and zoning committees must allow the developments as long as there are adequate roads, water services, and sewage connection for residents. The law also provides exceptions for properties in commercial zones but unsuited for residential use, such as situations where there are air, noise, odor, and transportation problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to have retail on the bottom floor, and then the property owner is going to be able to revitalize those old mill buildings that havent been in use for commercial and allow them to be residential, Alexander said. So thats going to save our New Hampshire downtowns. Matt Mayberry, chief executive officer of the New Hampshire Homebuilders Association, cheered the ADU bill, predicting an initial surge in ADU developments, followed by an eventual levelling off. Like all things, when you first turn on the faucet, you get a big rush of water, he said in an interview. Then it gets kind of regulated. But Mayberry has a more mixed opinion of the mixed-use development bill. He worries that some developers might use it to add residential housing to industrial parks, and push out potential businesses. On the other hand, he is concerned that municipalities could use the air, noise, odor, or transportation exemptions to veto some desirable developments. Those exemptions should have measurable standards, Mayberry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to see if builders are going to abuse it, or if towns are going to abuse it, he said, of the new law. Permitting process sped up; other reforms initiated Included in the budget signed in June is a longtime priority for Ayotte: legislation to speed up the states permitting process for new housing construction. House Bill 2, the budget trailer bill, requires reviews by the Department of Transportation and Department of Environmental Services to be completed within 60 days. But Ayotte also signed a number of bills last week making smaller changes to what local authorities are allowed to do. House Bill 457 prohibits cities or towns from creating zoning ordinances that restrict the number of residents to one person per unit; under that new law, each municipality must allow at least two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 188 allows homeowners to use third-party inspectors to conduct inspections of housing developments, which supporters say should increase the pace for developers. Senate Bill 282 allows buildings up to four stories tall to feature just one stairwell. Senate Bill 281 requires municipalities to allow construction of homes on Class VI roads provided the landowner signs a document acknowledging that the city is not going to maintain those roads, while House Bill 296 would provide a new pathway for land use boards to approve construction on private roads. And Senate Bill 284 stops cities and towns from requiring any more than one parking space per unit for residential construction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These bills are a win for New Hampshire families and businesses, said New Hampshire Housing Action Director Nick Taylor in a statement. They make it easier for Granite Staters to create attainable homes on their own property, revitalize aging strip malls and office buildings, cut through burdensome red tape, and streamline the approval process. Other zoning overhauls fall Not all proposals to reduce zoning restrictions made it through this year. The House tabled Senate Bill 170, which would have required municipalities to allow certain sewage line construction. It tabled Senate Bill 174, which included restrictions on how municipalities can regulate the number of bedrooms in a proposed unit or development. It also retained House Bill 459, which would limit the minimum number of acres a municipality could require for a property that did not have sewer infrastructure. Beyond zoning, the House also killed House Bill 623, which would bar corporations from buying houses for three months after a house is listed for sale. Advocates had argued that would improve the chances for people to buy homes, but opponents said it would stifle the free market. A rejection of some affordable funding proposals While praising the regulatory reforms, housing advocates have criticized the reduction of state funding for affordable housing this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Legislature rejected proposals to double the amount of money sent to the states affordable housing fund. Currently, $5 million goes from real estate transfer tax revenues to the fund; lawmakers had pushed for $10 million. And the two-year budget did not add additional funding for the Housing Champions Program, which attempts to incentivize towns to overhaul their zoning codes to be more friendly to development through a mix of grants. Lawmakers also retained House Bill 572 in committee; that bill would provide a partners in housing program to devote more money to help further assist cities and towns in building workforce housing. In a press release Thursday, a spokesperson for New Hampshire Housing Action said the 2025 legislative session ended with progress on regulatory reform but a disappointing lack of investment to shore up financial tools and programs to support affordable housing. But Alexander argued the zoning reforms meant the money would not be necessary to stimulate development. I think that these reforms are so significant that were not going to need to be funding these programs for a long time, Alexander said. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The return to the classroom is weeks away for Clark County School District students. The district posted a listing of Back-to-School Fairs scheduled to take place across the valley over the days and weeks leading up to the first day of school, which is Monday, Aug. 11. Back-to-School Fairs July 24 East Valley Family Services 5450 West Sahara 10 a.m. July 26 Galleria at Sunset 1300 West Sunset Road 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 1 Rancho High School 1900 Searles Avenue 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 2 Downtown Summerlin 1980 Festival Plaza Drive 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 9 Meadows Mall 4300 Meadows Lane 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vaccination Clinic Locations Back-to-School vaccine clinics are also offered by the Southern Nevada Health District by appointment only. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ordering Birth Certificates Ordering a birth certificate through the Southern Nevada Health District main facility is available by walk-in for a two-day special event. Friday, Aug. 1, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information on how to order birth certificates before the end-of-summer rush through the Southern Nevada Health Districts main facility, click HERE. 2025-2026 Safekey Registration Safekey registration is online only and opened for the new school year on Tuesday, July 22. New families may create an account and register by accessing the Registration Portal or the Connect Portal for returning families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on the CCSD registration and the full school year calendar, 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 KLAS. MOSCOW/KIEV, July 23 (Xinhua) -- When Russia and Ukraine sat down for peace talks earlier this year, the world watched with hope. Now, as a third round approaches, expectations have cooled. With mismatched timelines and clashing demands, even the Kremlin itself admits that "miraculous breakthroughs" are unlikely. As the battlefield grinds on, is hope for a ceasefire dimming? SAME TABLE, DIFFERENT DATES? Though both sides agreed to resume talks in Istanbul, Turkiye, they haven't quite agreed on the exact date, given conflicting reports. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday that a newly appointed delegation will meet with the Russian side on Wednesday and is "preparing for a prisoner exchange." But on the very same day, Russia's state news agency TASS reported a different timeline, saying the talks were set for Thursday. "The meeting is scheduled for July 24. The delegations may arrive in Istanbul on July 23," it reported, citing an anonymous source. While the previous two rounds of talks in Istanbul -- on May 16 and June 2 -- led to the exchange of thousands of war prisoners and the bodies of dead soldiers, they yielded little progress on reaching a ceasefire. Meanwhile, the Kremlin downplayed expectations for the upcoming meeting. "We don't have any reason to hope for some miraculous breakthroughs," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday, calling such outcomes "hardly possible in the current situation." Russia intends to "pursue our interests, we intend to ensure our interests and fulfill the tasks that we set for ourselves from the very beginning," he noted. STILL TALKING, STILL DIVIDED? Peskov also said that Moscow and Kiev are "diametrically opposed" in their positions on how to end the conflict, noting that "much work" still needs to be done. Following the last round of peace talks, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the blueprints for a peace deal shared by the two sides were "absolutely contradictory memorandums." As Russia demands Ukrainian neutrality, a pledge to stay out of military alliances, and international recognition of Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson as Russian territories, Ukraine's memorandum noted the country is "not forced to be neutral." "It can choose to be part of the Euro-Atlantic community and move towards EU membership. Ukraine's membership in NATO depends on consensus within the Alliance," it said. U.S. President Donald Trump's recent threat appears to have had little impact on Moscow. Promising to end the conflict on day one of his second term, Trump told the BBC last week that he is "disappointed" with his Russian counterpart, warning that he would impose 100 percent secondary tariffs on countries trading with Russia if Moscow fails to sign a ceasefire deal within 50 days. In response, the Kremlin dismissed the "ultimatum" as "unacceptable." Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said the country's "special military operations" in Ukraine will continue if "political and diplomatic work" stalls. "This is an unshakable position. We would like Washington and NATO as a whole to take it with the utmost seriousness," Ryabkov added. TALKS AHEAD, DRONES ABOVE? Hours after Zelensky announced the upcoming talks, Russia launched a wave of missile and drone strikes on Ukraine overnight, killing at least two people and injuring 15. "Throughout the night, Russia launched more than 420 drones and over 20 missiles, including ballistic ones. The waves of attacks lasted all night and continued into the morning," Zelensky wrote on social platform X. "That is why we must continue scaling up our interceptor capabilities. This is the kind of solution that can protect us from massive attacks." The Ukrainian president announced last week that his government will ramp up domestic arms production to meet half the country's military needs within six months. He added that Ukraine has also developed its own long-range drones to strike deep inside Russia. Meanwhile, Switzerland said last Thursday that the U.S. Defense Department informed it of plans to "reprioritize the delivery of Patriot systems to support Ukraine" in response to Russian strikes. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said, "The plan is that there will be American-made defense equipment, capabilities, that will be sold to our European allies, that they will provide to Ukraine," without giving a timeframe for the weapons deliveries. The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized NATO's weapons support to Ukraine. "Basically, weapons supplies don't go towards peace but to prolonging the ongoing conflict," Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said earlier this month. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A family whose mother was stabbed to death outside their home say the suspect has been threatening their lives for months. That begs the question: Whats the law on verbal assault and harassment that doesnt lead to physical violence? Fifty-four-year-old Gabriela Rodriguezs children said their neighbor, 50-year-old Derrick Williams, has been verbally harassing their family and other neighbors for a long period of time. As far as the police coming out there have been a few calls, they have been there a few times, more so its one of those things where if hes inside his house theres nothing that they can do, said Juliana Rodriguez, Gabrielas daughter. RELATED: Children of Gabriela Rodriguez speak out after being stabbed to death in front of her home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 15, Gabriela was stabbed multiple times while grabbing her mail in the 5000 block of Ream Way in south Bakersfield. According to court documents, neighbor Williams was found with blood on him and a knife thrown in his backyard. The Rodriguez family said there have been constant harassment and multiple complaints made against Williams in the past, but nothing was done. Its crazy how it had to lead up to this and there was so many complaints about him. About the verbal, being aggressive towards people, there nothing was done, said Juliana. So what constitutes as verbal harassment? Juan Garza, an attorney at Chain Cohn Clark, used to be a public defender at Kern County Courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You could have a very heated conversation with someone and even make some threats and that wouldnt be illegal, what crosses into illegal territory is if someone makes threats to cause great bodily injury or death to you, said Garza. California Penal Code 422 or the criminal threats code states the victim must be in reasonable fear for their safety or their familys safety. Garza said if police are called out, the threatened person can get a temporary restraining order placed on the person making the threats. But keep your own record, write it down or take video. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can always use that to fall back on, because often times if its just a he-said she-said thing, said Garza. Its difficult to get those restraining orders, get those arrests and get those convictions without enough evidence. Take their threats truthfully because sooner or later, theyre going to do what they say they are gonna do, said Tobi Crisler, who was at the courthouse to file a restraining order against someone who had verbally threatened her multiple times. I dont want to keep going through the same things over and over. Things gotta change, and this is the way its gonna change, said Crisler. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News. In 2010, California voters drove the foxes from the henhouse, seeing to it that lawmakers in Washington and Sacramento would no longer have the power to draw congressional districts to suit themselves. It wasn't close. Proposition 20 passed by a lopsided 61%-to-38% margin, giving congressional line-drawing authority to an independent mapmaking commission and thus ending decades of pro forma elections by injecting much-needed competition into California's House races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Gov. Gavin Newsom is talking about undoing voters' handiwork. Newsom said he may seek to cancel the commission, tear up the boundaries it drew and let Democratic partisans draft a new set of lines ahead of next year's midterm election all to push back on President Trump and Texas Republicans, who are attempting a raw power grab to enhance the GOP's standing in 2026. The threatened move is a long shot and, more than anything, a ploy to boost Newsom's White House ambitions. It's also highly presumptuous on his part, reflecting an increased arrogance among lawmakers around the country who are saying to voters, in effect, "Thank you for your input. Now go away." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Barabak: Newsom threatens Texas over power grab. He's blowing smoke Take what just happened in Missouri. Last year, 58% of voters approved a ballot measure increasing the state minimum wage and requiring employers to provide paid sick leave. This month, Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe signed legislation that limited the minimum wage increase and scrapped the sick leave requirement altogether. In two other states, Alaska and Nebraska, lawmakers similarly tried but failed to, respectively, overturn voter-passed measures on paid sick leave and a hike in the minimum wage. "It's a damning indictment of representative democracy when elected officials are scared of the will of their own voters," said Alexis Magnan-Callaway of the Fairness Project, a union-backed advocacy group that focuses on state ballot measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is indeed. But it's part of a pattern in recent years of lawmakers, mainly in Republican-led states, undercutting or working to roll back voter-designed measures to enshrine abortion rights, expand Medicare and raise the minimum wage. To be clear, those measures were passed by voters of all stripes: Democrats, Republicans, independents. "People are transcending party lines to vote for issues that they know will impact their communities," said Chris Melody Fields Figueredo, executive director of the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, a progressive organization. By ignoring or working to nullify the result, she said, lawmakers are helping contribute "to what we're seeing across the country, where people are losing faith in our institutions and in government." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And why wouldn't they, if politicians pay no mind save to ask for their vote come election time? In a direct attack on the initiative process, at least nine state legislatures passed or considered laws in their most recent session making it harder and perhaps even impossible for citizens to place measures on the ballot and seek a popular vote. There can be issues with direct democracy, as Sean Morales-Doyle of the Brennan Center for Justice pointed out. "There can be times when systems can be abused to confuse voters," he said, "or where voters do things without maybe fully understanding what it is they're doing, because of the way ballot measures are drafted or ballot summaries are offered." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it's one thing to address those glitches, Morales-Doyle said, and "another thing to just basically say that we, as the representatives of voters, disagree with what voters think the best policy is and so we're going to make it harder for them to enact the policy that they desire." In Texas, Republicans are wielding their lopsided power in hopes of erasing as many as five Democratic-leaning congressional seats, boosting the GOP's chances of keeping control of the House in the 2026 midterm election. Trump, staring at the prospect of an emboldened, subpoena-wielding Democratic House majority, is backing the effort whole-hog. That, Newsom said, is the fighting-fire-with-fire reason to tear up California's congressional map and gerrymander the state for Democrats just as egregiously as Texas Republicans hope to do. We can sit on the sidelines, talk about the way the world should be. Or, we can recognize the existential nature that is this moment, the governor asserted. It's awfully hard to argue against corralling the errant Trump and his Republican enablers. Still, that's no reason to ignore the express will of California voters when it comes to reining in their own lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taking Newsom's gerrymander threat at face value, there are two ways he could possibly override Proposition 20. He could break the law and win passage of legislation drawing new congressional districts, face an inevitable lawsuit and hope to win a favorable ruling from the California Supreme Court. Or he could call a costly special election and ask voters to reverse themselves and eliminate the state's nonpartisan redistricting commission, at least for the time being. Read more: Barabak: Here's why Jeffrey Epstein's tangled web is conspiratorial catnip It's a hard sell. One presumes Newsom's message to Californians would not be: "Let's spend hundreds of millions of your tax dollars so you can surrender your power and return it to politicians working their will in the backrooms of Washington and Sacramento." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that's the gist of what they would be asked to do, which bespeaks no small amount of hubris on Newsom's part. If elections are going to matter especially at a time our democracy is teetering so politicians have to accept the results, whether they like them or not. Otherwise, what's the point of having elections? Get the latest from Mark Z. Barabak Focusing on politics out West, from the Golden Gate to the U.S. Capitol. Sign me up. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The office of former president Barack Obama issued a rare statement on Tuesday (July 22) after Obama was accused of committing treason and rigging both the 2016 and 2020 elections by Pres. Trump. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Ahead of the statement, Trump was asked about Jeffrey Epstein and he, instead, started speaking on what he called Obamas criminality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump told reporters, After what they did to me and whether its right or wrong, its time to go after people. Obamas been caught directly. What they did in 2016 and 2020 is very criminal. Its criminal at the highest level. So thats really the things you should be talking about. Look, hes guilty. Its not a question. This was treason. This was every word you can think of. They tried to steal the election. They tried to obfuscate the election. He was referring to claims from National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe accusing officials from the Obama administration of conspiring to undermine the legitimacy of Trump winning the 2016 election. Gabbard tweeted on Friday that she planned to make a criminal referral to the Justice Department. Democratic lawmakers then accused the Trump administration of attempting to rewrite history. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., said in a statement, This is just another example of the DNI trying to cook the books, rewrite history, and erode trust in the intelligence agencies shes supposed to be leading. House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar of California told NBC News on Monday, [T]heyll release anything if it buys them another day or two to not talk about Epstein or to get the angry mob to talk about Epstein. Rodenbush fired back at Gabbards allegations, stating, Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Gabbard and Obama have addressed claims that Russia impacted the U.S. election results in 2016. On Dec 8, 2016, IC officials prepared an assessment for the Presidents Daily Brief, finding that Russia did not impact recent U.S. election results by conducting cyber attacks on infrastructure. Before it could reach the President, it was abruptly pulled based on new guidance. This key intelligence assessment was never published, Gabbard wrote. Obama stated, I can assure the public that there was not the kind of tampering with the voting process that was of concern the votes that were cast were counted they were counted appropriately. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. On Monday, July 21, Barstow Community College hosted The Yuhaaviatam Story: Marrayam Ancestral Landsan evening dedicated to honoring the history and enduring ancestral ties of the Marrayam (Serrano) people. The event was led by Councilmember Joseph Joe Maarango, Culture Seat Member of the Yuhaaviatam Tribal Council of San Manuel. Attendees explored the Tribes recent reclamation of its ancestral nameYuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation (pronounced Yu-HAH-vee-ah-tahm)and its deep-rooted connection to the Marrayams traditional lands. The program highlighted how these ancestral ties continue to shape the Tribes identity, stewardship, and meaningful relationships with Barstow and the greater High Desert region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe based on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. Formerly known as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the Tribe proudly reclaims its ancestral nameYuhaaviatam (pronounced "Yu-HAA-vee-ah-tahm")a name that honors the rich heritage and enduring legacy of its people. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Baton Rouge Police Department arrested a man Wednesday, accused of attempted second-degree rape and obscenity. Police said Marquise Quindell Beckham, 26, of Baton Rouge, was wanted on felony charges. According to authorities, the incident happened at the pool area of a Ben Hur Road apartment complex on July 22. According to an arrest warrant, Beckham is accused of exposing himself to the victim before chasing her as she started walking away. The victim told investigators that the suspect fled after she started screaming while seeking help at the apartment office doors. Image of Marquise Quindell Beckham (Baton Rouge Police Department) Image of Marquise Quindell Beckham (Baton Rouge Police Department) Livingston Parish man found guilty of video voyeurism, sentencing set for August Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) Red Bay Coffee is making its way back to the Ferry Building as a brick-and-mortar coffee shop with even more to offer. The Bay Area-based cafe is set to cut the ribbon at the grand opening of its new location on Thursday, July 31. The grand opening is set to have live music and a DJ with complimentary samplings of their specialty micro roasts and blends, according to the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. The ribbon cut will commence at 12:30 p.m. SF Tonkatsu spot listed as one of the best new restaurants: report Facade of Red Bay Coffee cafe with black-and-white signage and slogan, San Francisco, California, May 20, 2025. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) The coffee shop announced in January that it will be moving a few doors down. The opening location is in Suite 46 of the Ferry Building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were excited to share that Red Bay Coffee will open a new space inside the Ferry Building this summer! the Ferry Building announced on its social media last month. Red Bays new spot will have outdoor patio seating. With extended closing hours, the cafe plans to introduce bespoke coffee cocktails, according to the Ferry Building. Since the original Ferry Building location closed, Red Bay has operated as a mobile coffee shop near the marketplace. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (KRON) A locally founded Japanese supermarket is expanding with another Bay Area location. Osaka Marketplace is opening in Foster City this November, according to a news release by Foster City. Osaka Marketplace is located at the Edgewater Place Shopping Center, taking over the former space of Luckys grocery store, the city said. The supermarket joins a shopping plaza with other Asian eateries: Ritha Indian Restaurant, Chinese restaurant Rickshaw Corner, Korean barbecue restaurant Warehouse Buffet and Quickly. Largest hot pot chain in China opening at Peninsula mall Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Osaka Marketplace offers a wide selection of Japanese groceries, fresh produce, seafood, ready-to-eat meals, and hard-to-find imported goods all under one roof, Foster City officials wrote in a press release published on July 10. Only the Fremont Osaka Marketplace is currently open. An Osaka Marketplace is also set to open in Pleasant Hill, across the street from Century Theaters. That location is coming soon, according to downtown Pleasant Hills website. Osaka Marketplace features both a food court and a cafe inside the grocery store. The food court serves Japanese dishes such as ramen, chicken karaage and bento boxes. Were thrilled to welcome Osaka Marketplace to Foster City, Mayor Stacy Jimenez said in a press release. Their arrival brings new energy to Edgewater Place Shopping Center and offers a fresh, high-quality shopping experience that our residents will truly enjoy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Osaka Marketplace opened its first location in Fremont back in November of 2021. According to the company, it was the first Japanese supermarket in the East Bay. Asian grocery store openings have been the recent craze in the Bay Area. In addition to the recently opened Jagalchi in Daly City, these Asian supermarkets will open: T&T Supermarket in San Francisco and San Jose, Seafood City in Daly City, Mega Mart in East Palo Alto, H Mart in Dublin and Tokyo Central in Emeryville. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) -Theres a big policy change coming to Bay District schools, involving a ban on cell phone usage. For 30 days, the school district has been advertising Wednesdays public hearing about the new cell phone policy. No one got up to make a comment. Board members unanimously approved it. The new policy allows students to possess wireless devices while on campus. But they must be turned off and put away during school hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike the state law that bans bell-to-bell phones and other devices in elementary and middle schools, the county policy also applies to high schools. School board members say other school districts around the state have implemented the same model and reported improved student grades, higher attendance, and better teacher-student interactions. This is different from other years. You know, you cannot have your phone out talking on it, texting on it, whatever it might be, from bell to bell. Will there be a learning curve? Absolutely, because this is going to be new for our students and, honestly, for our teachers. But Im really excited to see how its implemented. And hopefully we have those same positive things that all those other districts had when they did that, School Board Chairman Steve Moss said. Moss made a point to clarify that students will be allowed to use their phones before the first bell and after the last bell, but they must be turned off and secured between that time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moss admits there will be a learning curve, and teachers will explain the new policy and punishments during syllabus review. Of course, there are some exceptions to the policy; to view those, 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 mypanhandle.com. (WFXR)- A Bedford County man has pleaded guilty to federal swatting charges. According to the Department of Justice, Evan Strauss, 27, of Moneta, helped to create and operate an online group known as purgatory. The group was accused of using multiple online platforms to coordinate and plan swatting and doxing activities. Prosecutors said between December 2023 and January 2024, the group placed calls to police, an airport, and other agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED STORY: Moneta man charged with child exploitation, stalking in FBI investigation Strauss could face decades in federal prison. He is scheduled for sentencing on November 6. Read the full press release below from the U.S. Department of Justice. Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Swatting Charges Baltimore, Maryland Today, Evan Strauss, 27, of Moneta, Virginia, pled guilty to conspiracy, cyberstalking, interstate threatening communications, and threats to damage or destroy by means of fire and explosives. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Baltimore Field Office. According to the guilty plea, Strauss helped create and operate an online group known as Purgatory. The group used multiple online social-media platforms, including Telegram and Instagram, to coordinate and plan swatting and doxxing activities and to announce and brag about swats that they conducted. Swatting is a term used to describe a criminal incident in which an individual contacts emergency services and falsely reports an emergency, often involving an act of violence that reportedly has or will occur at a particular location to elicit an armed law enforcement response to that location. Doxxing is a term used to describe the practice of searching for and publishing on the Internet personal, private, or identifying information about an individual with malicious intent, such as providing the information for the purpose of facilitating the swatting of the individual. From December 10, 2023, through January 18, 2024, Strauss and his co-conspirators, including a co-conspirator who resided in Hagerstown, Maryland, and made calls from Maryland, placed swatting calls to police and other emergency response departments. One or more of the conspirators, acting with the intent to threaten, intimidate, and harass individuals and entities, falsely reported emergencies in the form of violent acts at particular locations to cause armed law enforcement responses. Strauss and his co-conspirators often used shared scripts to plan and coordinate their conduct. They then called police departments using Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services to obscure their phone numbers and identities. As part of the scheme, Strauss called the Newark Delaware Police Department and falsely claimed that he heard a man firing shots in a school hallway. Moments later, the Maryland co-conspirator called the department again, threatening to shoot a specific Newark High School teacher and kill students. As a result of these calls, which occurred in the middle of the school day, authorities placed the school on lockdown as police officers rushed to respond. Later the same day, Strauss and other conspirators bragged about the incident and posted images from the resulting news coverage onto their groups social media accounts. Strauss encouraged a Purgatory conspirator to shut down an airport. Following Strauss urging, the conspirator used a VOIP number to call the Albany Police Department in Albany, New York, stating he was going to the Albany International Airport to shoot everybody up and that his friend was going to set off bombs in the airport. Police units then rushed to respond to these threats. Additionally, as part of this scheme, the Maryland co-conspirator called the Houston County Sheriffs Office in Dothan, Alabama, and threatened to burn down part of a residential trailer park and kill any law enforcement officers who arrived to respond to the threat. Strauss faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for each count of threatening to damage or destroy by fire or explosive and a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for conspiracy, cyberstalking, and interstate threats. Co-conspirators Brayden Grace, 19, of Columbus, Ohio, and Owen Jarboe, 19, of Hagerstown, Maryland, pled guilty earlier this year and are awaiting sentencing. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, November 6, at 10 a.m. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation. Additionally, Ms. Hayes praised the Joint Terrorism Task Force, Columbus; Ohio Police Department; Newark, Delaware Police Department; Lenoir City, Tennessee Police Department; Albany, New York Police Department; Albany County, New York Sheriffs Office; Fairburn City, Georgia Police Department; Bethel Park, Pennsylvania Police Department; Giles County, Virginia Sheriffs Office; Blue Springs, Missouri Police Department; Tarboro, North Carolina Police Department; Boston, Massachusetts Police Department; Dodge County, Georgia Sheriffs Office; Houston County, Alabama Sheriffs Office; and the FBIs Mobile, Richmond, Boston, Charlotte, and Cincinnati Field Offices for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert I. Goldaris and Patricia C. McLane who are prosecuting 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 WFXRtv. Beef prices are soaring across the country and it is unlikely it will drop anytime soon. Since of the start of the year, the price of beef increased over eight percent and is currently selling for $9.26 per pound, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the average price of ground beef, a staple in American households, increased to $6.10 last month. In June 2024, the average price was $5.36. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tariffs imposed by President Trump on a variety of countries have not had a huge impact on prices of beef yet. The U.S. imported over 4.1 billion pounds of beef last year, according to USDA data. The countries that export a significant amount of meat, such as New Zealand and Australia, are facing a 10 percent tariff, while others, like Brazil, which has exported 216,119 metric tons of meat this year, might be staring at a 50 percent tariff. Still, multiple other factors have contributed to the rise in beef prices, including drought conditions, a downward trend in the number of herds, high supply costs and a parasite impacting some imported cattle. Cattle inventory drops Over the last two decades, the price of beef has increased as nationwide cattle inventory has slumped over the past five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Jan 1., there are 86.7 million heads of cattle and calves on U.S. farms, according to USDAs data. Of the nearly 90 million, there were 37.2 million cows and heifers that calved, or gave birth, so far this year. There are 27.9 million beef cows in the U.S. as of Jan. 1, a one-percent drop from 2024. The number of milk cows has gradually gone up since last year, increasing to around 9.35 million. Brady Stewart, the chief supply chain officer at Tyson Foods Inc., said during an earnings call in early May that beef is experiencing the most challenging market conditions weve ever seen, adding that the food company has increased total adjusted operating income by 27 percent and every segment grew other than beef. Cattle supply is at a 74-year low and tight supplies have helped jack up beef and cattle prices, according to economist Bernt Nelson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the supply side largely fixed, U.S. demand for beef is the lynchpin holding together razor thin profit margins for our nations cattle farmers and ranchers. If demand weakens, cattle prices will likely decline, creating a major obstacle to any meaningful expansion of the U.S. cattle herd, Nelson wrote in a market intel report in late May. Costs rise for farmers Nelson said that margins for cattle farmers and ranchers are also razor thin due to elevated supply costs. Demand is currently strong, but this situation could quickly change, the economist said. Any decline in consumer confidence or household financial health could weaken demand, forcing packers to lower bids and triggering financial losses for cattle farmers and ranchers. Another factor impacting the prices of beef is the rising costs of cattle. With higher prices, ranchers and producers could be enticed to sell more cows according to a livestock economist at Texas A&M University David Anderson, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For them, the balance is, Do I sell that animal now and take this record high check? Or do I keep her to realize her returns over her productive life when shes having calves?. And so its this balancing act and so far the side thats been winning is to sell her and get the check, Anderson told The Associated Press this week. Parasite derails Mexican imports A flesh-eating screwworm is also placing pressure on the struggling industry. Screwworms are flies whose females lay eggs in warm-blooded animals, normally livestock. Larvae hatch and then bite into the host animal until they end up killing it. Earlier this month, the U.S. blocked the imports of Mexican cattle after the New World screwworm fly was noticed getting closer to the southern border. The new case was detected 370 miles south of southern border, according to USDA. In June, the USDA resumed the imports of bison, cattle and equine from Mexico after another screwworm case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States has promised to be vigilant and after detecting this new NWS case, we are pausing the planned port reopenings to further quarantine and target this deadly pest in Mexico. We must see additional progress combatting NWS in Veracruz and other nearby Mexican states in order to reopen livestock ports along the Southern border, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said in a statement on July 9. 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 The Hill. A staff member from the Ministry of Forestry of Belarus presents an overview of the country's forestry sector in Minsk, Belarus, on July 23, 2025. Belarus has launched the first project under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) on Wednesday here. The project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus: A Comprehensive Fire Preparedness Initiative for Community-Based Fire Prevention and Response" is funded by China's Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund (GDF). (Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua) MINSK, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Belarus has launched the first project under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) on Wednesday here. The project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus: A Comprehensive Fire Preparedness Initiative for Community-Based Fire Prevention and Response" is funded by China's Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund (GDF). The total financial assistance amounts to 2 million U.S. dollars and is implemented jointly with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Forestry of Belarus. The project involves equipping Belarusian forestry enterprises and fire departments with the latest firefighting equipment and technology, enhancing the effectiveness of early warning and rapid response to forest fires, and reducing the threat of natural disasters to natural resources, as well as to citizens' lives and property. During the ceremonial event, Belarusian Forestry Minister Aleksandr Kulik expressed sincere gratitude to the government of China and the UNDP for their support and cooperation. Global climate change poses serious challenges to protecting forests from fires, and for Belarus, where forests cover more than 40 percent of the country's territory, this issue is of particular importance, the minister said, adding that the project will strengthen the material and technical base of fire prevention. Chinese Ambassador to Belarus Zhang Wenchuan said that since its establishment in 2015, the GDF has significantly improved people's well-being, strengthened the capacities of recipient countries, and significantly contributed to implementing the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The ambassador believed that this project will become a new model of cooperation between China and Belarus in jointly implementing the GDI, giving new impetus to the friendship between the two countries and practical collaboration in various fields. Liu Renfei, the UNDP's resident representative in Belarus, said the UNDP welcomes China's GDI as a contribution to accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by developing countries. The initiative reflects a commitment to multilateral cooperation under the UN framework and South-South cooperation, while the GDF turns these commitments into tangible results by helping developing countries implement projects on the ground, Liu said. The UNDP cooperates with all member states, including China, to align with international development cooperation principles that strengthen multilateral frameworks and accelerate SDG implementation, Liu said. Belarusian Forestry Minister Aleksandr Kulik (1st L), Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme in Belarus Liu Renfei (2nd L), and Chinese Ambassador to Belarus Zhang Wenchuan show a puzzle symbolizing the launch of the project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus" in Minsk, Belarus, on July 23, 2025. Belarus has launched the first project under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) on Wednesday here. The project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus: A Comprehensive Fire Preparedness Initiative for Community-Based Fire Prevention and Response" is funded by China's Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund (GDF). (Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua) Belarusian Forestry Minister Aleksandr Kulik speaks at the launching ceremony of the project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus" in Minsk, Belarus, on July 23, 2025. Belarus has launched the first project under the Global Development Initiative (GDI) on Wednesday here. The project "Safeguarding Forests of Belarus: A Comprehensive Fire Preparedness Initiative for Community-Based Fire Prevention and Response" is funded by China's Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund (GDF). (Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua) Belarus signaled on July 23 that it could reverse its earlier decision to move the Zapad-2025 military drills inland, citing what it called escalating military activity by Poland and Lithuania near its borders. Belarusian Deputy Defense Minister Pavel Muraveika said Minsk originally chose to move the joint Russian-Belarusian drills away from the western frontier to ease tensions, but that decision may now be reconsidered. "Given the difficult military and political situation and the fact that Belarus is constantly accused of aggressive intentions, we have made a decision and moved the areas of the event away from the borders," Muraveika said. "But our Western colleagues began to speculate on this process." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Zapad-2025 drills, expected to take place in mid-September, will involve around 13,000 troops and are among the largest joint exercises held by Russia and Belarus. Kyiv and NATO officials have voiced concern over the drills, which are set to occur amid Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Muraveika specifically cited recent NATO movements as justification for a possible venue revision. "Poland has announced that it is ready to conduct divisional-scale exercises near our borders near Grodno, the Bialowieza Forest. Lithuania is transferring the Iron Wolf brigade to the Pabrade training ground," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Under these conditions, we reserve the right to make a decision and move our individual units during the exercises to work out episodes of an exclusively defensive nature." In February, President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia planned to deploy up to 150,000 troops, or 15 divisions, to Belarus in preparation for a potential military escalation. While Minsk has not deployed its own troops in combat during Russia's war in Ukraine, it has provided critical support, including launching areas for Russian missile strikes and ground operations in the early phase of the invasion. Read also: Explainer: Does Zelenskys crackdown on anti-corruption agencies have anything to do with Russian influence? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Jul. 22BEMIDJI Given its 27% Indigenous student body, it would seem natural that Bemidji Area Schools would expand its instruction in Ojibwe language. The district's board of education did exactly that at its regular Monday meeting when it approved the hiring of two full-time-equivalent Ojibwe language teachers beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. The district had been awarded a Native Language Revitalization Grant from the Minnesota Department of Education, which will fully fund positions at Lincoln, JW Smith and Gene Dillon Elementary schools for at least the next two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As sure as things can be in this day and age, we do believe that it's a sustainable program," Superintendent Jeremy Olson said. "The state's not promising anything beyond that two-year term, but they believe that this will be ongoing funding and we should have a fairly good shot at renewing our application." Olson noted that the three respective schools were selected because of higher ratios of American Indian students attending. "We certainly wanted to look at that and give those opportunities there first," Olson added. "When we talk about who we are as Bemidji, that's an important aspect." As it stands currently, Ojibwe does not have a set scope or sequence in terms of curriculum, something Olson hopes to address by way of board collaboration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What I would recommend is having a monthly review of that curriculum, and because the board is responsible for implementing a curriculum, that review would come back to the school board (for a vote)," he said. After a full one-year implementation, the curriculum would be brought back to the board's curriculum committee for review as happens with all other subject areas. Ojibwe would be offered on a rotating basis as an elective. Though met with considerable support, board member Anna Manecke expressed concern about adding Ojibwe noting the current lack of a set curriculum, the class competing with other electives and ongoing budgetary issues. "I feel like (music, art and physical education) are very inclusive to all," Manecke stated. "It makes me uneasy thinking about the potential staff or program cuts coming next spring ... if we've been getting these free grants, then potentially removing more elective teachers from our schools for it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Board member Jack Aakhus acknowledged Manecke's concerns, but found assurance in the potential process for curriculum review that Olson detailed. "I remember taking Ojibwe in middle school with Mrs. Goodwin. I think it gave me a deeper appreciation for the culture of my hometown and I'm glad that I had that experience," Aakhus said. "I'd share some concern with the curriculum, but those have been addressed pretty well and it sounds like this won't be taking too much time from other electives, so I'll be supporting this." Board vice chair Todd Haugen shared strong support, adding, "I don't think many people realize how many students we have in our district who are Ojibwe students. Being between these three large reservations being right in the center (in Bemidji) the current emphasis on preserving this language is a really important thing for our district to do." Board treasurer Ann Long Voelkner supported adding Ojibwe language instruction at the elementary level, noting a greater ability for a child to retain new languages at an early age. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The easiest way for people to learn languages is to do it when they're young. If they learn it young, it's a heck of a lot easier than when they're older," Long Voelkner said. "I'm just excited for this opportunity for students who are interested." After more discussion, the board approved the Ojibwe language positions 5-1 with Manecke voting against. In other business, the board unanimously approved a school bus transportation contract with Bemidji Bus Lines for the 2026-2028 fiscal years. The contract includes a total of nine bus routes with estimated contract amounts of $643,720 for 2025-2026, $676,476 for 2026-2027 and $710,876 for 2027-2028. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Contracting these routes puts the district in a very good position going into the school year with having only one route that doesn't have an assigned driver," District Business Director Ashley Eastridge said. "This is very important to obtain because over the past few years we have experienced a driver shortage, which has put a significant amount of pressure on our transportation staff to not cancel routes." Last school year, the district averaged five open routes each day or approximately 8% of its total routes with as many as 10 open routes on a day this happened six times. The 2023-2024 school year saw an average of seven open routes each day or approximately 14% of its total routes with as many as 14 open routes on a day which happened twice. The district also had to cancel seven total routes during the school year with as many as three being canceled on the same day. Bemidji Bus Line has served as supplemental transportation contractor with the district since the 2022-2023 school year, originally contracting four routes with the district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to adjournment, board chair Dave Wall shared the board's summary of Olson's superintendent evaluation, which was conducted in closed session at a June 16 meeting. The evaluation focused on six key areas including board/superintendent relationships, community relationships, staff and personnel relationships, business and finance, performance standards, and leadership. "Overall, this board unanimously appreciates and values the hard work that Dr. Olson does to make the education of students in ISD 31 a top priority," the summary states. "The board is confident in the leadership that Dr. Olson has brought to the Bemidji school district, and we look forward to working with him in the coming year ahead." Olson has served as superintendent since July 2022. The full meeting can be viewed on the Bemidji Area Schools YouTube channel. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 18, in the district board room. MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (WCBD) South Carolinas top judicial leaders say family courts are overwhelmed, and Berkeley County is one of the hardest-hit. A new Family Court seat is now coming to the county as part of a broader statewide effort to ease delays in custody battles, juvenile hearings, and DSS cases. Lawmakers approved the addition of Seat 7 in the Ninth Judicial Circuit earlier this year following a request from South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice John Kittredge, who told legislators in February that family courts are in crisis. Judge Ernie Jarrett, the chief administrative judge for Family Court in Berkeley County, said the court was significantly behind in cases when he was assigned to the county 18 months ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were some that were, you know, three- and four-year-old trials waiting to be heard when I got there, Jarrett said. But the issue is, and why we need this new judge position, is to keep from getting that backlog again. Jarrett said Berkeley was once considered a mid-sized county, but its current caseload is comparable to much larger counties like Charleston and Richland. Usually you have a small county paired with a large county, and now weve got two large counties, Jarrett said. I think one time when I looked at the numbers, we just had 400 less open cases than Charleston. Until now, Berkeley County has had only two resident Family Court judges. During periods of transition and retirement, the county relied heavily on visiting and retired judges to manage hearings and sign orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jarrett said the addition of Seat 7 means the county will now have a third full-time judge based in Moncks Corner. It just really helps move cases along, he said. Access to judges to sign orders, its great for Berkeley County. Chief Justice Kittredge told lawmakers the need is especially urgent in counties where population growth has been paired with a rise in contested custody trials and state-mandated DSS and juvenile court deadlines. Applications for the seat, as well as two additional new family court seats and more than a dozen other judgeships, opened July 21, with public hearings scheduled to start in late November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will be the first time candidates are screened by a newly configured Judicial Merit Selection Commission (JSMC), the panel that vets applicants and presents qualified candidates to the full legislature for a vote. South Carolina is one of only two states where the General Assembly picks judges, and the process has long been criticized as lacking transparency and giving lawyer-legislators undue influence. State lawmakers voted last year to reform the JMSC in an attempt to mitigate those perceived problems. The changes went into effect on July 1. The law expanded the size of the panel from 10 to 12 members, giving four appointments to the governor, four to the Senate, and four to the House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It did not bar lawyer-legislators from serving on the screening panel, but it imposed two-year term limits for commission members and restricted them from serving more than two consecutive terms. Members who had served more than four years on the commission were not eligible for reappointment, excluding the chairman and vice chairman, who could serve an initial two-year term but not a successive one. Rep. Micah Caskey (R-Lexington) serves as chairman, and Sen. Luke Rankin (R-Horry) serves as vice chairman currently. Four other legislators Sen. Chip Campsen (R-Charleston), Sen. Overture Walker (D-Richland), Rep. Jay Jordan (R-Florence), and Rep. Leon Stavrinakis (D-Charleston) are also on the panel. The new law also raised the cap on the number of qualified candidates that can be put forward for election from three to six. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Completed application packets are due to the JMSC by noon on August 25. A joint session of the General Assembly is tentatively scheduled to vote on the nominations on March 4, 2026. The new Berkeley County judge will serve a six-year term beginning July 1, 2026, and ending in June 2032. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. July 24 Deadline to order ham and cheese or turkey and cheese sandwiches, Pioneer Grange, 46 E. Keller St., Topton. Cost is $5. Pickup is Aug. 3 from 3-5 p.m. at the Grange Hall. To order, call Tammy at 610-463-7213. July 25 Swing Fever concert, Grings Mill Recreation Area, 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Spring Township, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Rain date July 26. Bring your own chairs, blankets and stay the evening. Food trucks: JRs Brisket LLC, Grecos Italian Ices & Homemade Ice Cream. Free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 26 Wagon Works sketch workshop, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Join local artist Zoungy Kligge for a sketching workshop and brief tour. Register online at tinyurl.com/38smr63c. Huffs Union Church picnic, 540 Conrad Road, Hereford Township. Food and baked goods available from 4-8 p.m.; music by the Majestics from 5-8 p.m., weather permitting; free childrens activities and games for those 10 and under, 5-6 p.m. No animals other than service animals. Call the church office at 610-845-2626 for more information. Back-to-school community event, Calvary United Church of Christ, 1231 Route 100, Washington Township, 9 a.m.-noon. There will be school supplies, petting zoo, hot dogs, ice cream, clothing, books, household items, bounce house, touch a truck and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 30 Redware workshop, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 6-8 p.m. Come out for a fun and creative evening and learn more about the traditional craft of Pennsylvania Dutch redware pottery. $10. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Aug. 2 Blacksmith Day, Old Dry Road Farm, 202 Highland Road, Lower Heidelberg Township, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Family-friendly free event by the PA Artist-Blacksmiths Association. Forging demonstrations and contest, hands-on activities for adults and children. See pabasite.org or facebook.com/PABlacksmiths for more information. Dog friendly, rain or shine. Food available for purchase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spring Valley Boutique, Spring Valley Church of God, 2727 Old Pricetown Road, Muhlenberg Township, 10-11:30 a.m. Featured items vary by month (depending on donations) but frequently include clothing for women, men and children, shoes, handbags, jewelry, etc. Anyone looking to donate used items to this ministry can do so during boutique hours. Park in the upper parking lot; boutique is set up in the gym. Drive-thru sausage sandwich sale, St. Peters United Church of Christ, 122 W. Franklin St., Topton, 10 a.m. until sold out, $6 each. Enter at Broad Alley and exit at Franklin Street; 10% of proceeds will go to the Brandywine Heights School Districts Adopt a Student program. Ringgold Band concert, St. John-Hill Church picnic grove, 620 Hill Church Road, Pike Township, 5-8 p.m. Food available starting at 3:30 with sit-down service from 3:30-7:30, hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, ice cream. Rain or shine. For more information call 610-367-8114 or visit stjohnhill.org. Knee Deep in the Creek, Angora Fruit Farm, 502 Angora Road, Lower Alsace Township, 10 a.m.-noon. All participants should expect to wade into our rocky stream, so wear close toed shoes that can get wet like old sneakers, water shoes. Geared towards families with children ages 6 and older. Free. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug. 4 Christian Pet Loss Support Group meeting, St. Johns Reformed Church, 4001 Penn Ave., Sinking Spring, 6:45 p.m. Sessions are led by Dr. Becky Frank, associate veterinarian with Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice. Frank is also certified in Thanatology (death, loss, grief and bereavement). The program entails six different sessions and participants may join at any time. This group is open to the public and is offered at no charge. Questions should be directed to office@stjohnsss.org. RSVP to that email if you are planning to attend. Parking is located behind the church, and the fellowship hall is on the lower level. Aug. 6 Nature Scavenger Hunt with a Ranger, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 10 a.m.-noon. Meet the rangers while learning about wildlife in our parks. This family-friendly event will get folks out on the trails to investigate what they can see and hear. Free. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug. 8 Concert by Zydeco-A-Go-Go, Grings Mill Recreation Area, 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Spring Township, 5:30-8 p.m., rain date Aug. 15. Food trucks: Choys Caribbean Stir-Fry, Grecos Italian Ices and Homemade Ice Cream. Free. Aug. 9 Smokeys Birthday Celebration, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 10 a.m.-noon. Celebrate Smokey Bears 80th birthday with Smokey and friends. Food truck on-site: JRs Brisket. Free. St. Peters United Church of Christ of Molltown community picnic, 219 Maidencreek Road, Richmond Township. Mike and Linda Hertzog will be accompanied by Jakob Wiswesser and Jacob Todd as they provide music from 5-7:30 p.m. Food will be available for purchase from 4-7:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair. The event will be held indoors if it rains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue will hold its monthly open house from 10 a.m. until noon at its Golden Gateway facility at 60 Vera Cruz Road, Reinholds. Meet and greet the golden retrievers and dogs available for adoption. Staff is on hand to answer questions, and food is available for purchase. No admission charge. No photos, and do not bring other dogs to this event. For more information, contact info@dvgrr.org, call 717-484-4799 or visit dvgrr.org/adopt/monthlyopenhouse. Aug. 10 Strausstown Fire Company breakfast, Strausstown Community Campus, 50 E. Ave., Strausstown, 7:30-11:30 a.m. A full breakfast menu will be available. Proceeds benefit the apparatus fund. Aug. 11 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday at the Wagon Works, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 11 a.m.-noon. The Berks County Heritage Center is offering guided tours of the Gruber Wagon Works one Monday a month. Adults: $7, seniors: $6, students $5. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Aug. 13 Drop-in Art Camp: Botany Blitz, Bingaman House, 2843 Hill Road, Lower Alsace Township, 9 a.m.-noon. Campers can expect to create among the canopy of Antietam Lake Parks beautiful trails. This is a drop-off program. $15 per child. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Aug. 14 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close-up Photography with Ranger Jerry, Antietam Lake Park, 230 Angora Road, Lower Alsace Township, 6 p.m. Want to learn how to shoot smaller objects in greater detail with your iPhone? Free. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. The Return of the Bats, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 7-8:30 p.m. Join Dr. Karen Campbell of Albright College for her popular talk as she explores and explains the lives of bats, from around the world, to Pennsylvania, to our own Wertzs Covered Red Bridge. Free. Aug. 16 Yoga class, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, 2 Mark Bird Lane, Union Township, 6 p.m., led by Wellspring on Main of Douglassville. Register for free by calling 610-582-8773 or emailing HOFU_Superintendent@nps.cog. Bring a water bottle and a yoga mat or beach towel to the hourlong class. For more information, visit nps.gov/hofu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huffs Union Church community picnic, 540 Conrad Road, Hereford Township, rain or shine. Food and baked goods available from 4-8 p.m. Music by the Regen Church Band from 5-8. Free childrens activities and games (10 and under) 5-6. Bring your own lawn chairs. For the safety and enjoyment of all, no animals other than service animals. Aug. 17 Natures Best Hope Guided Hike and Invasive Pull, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 9-10 a.m. Join us on the Union Canal Trail at the Heritage Center for a guided hike learning about conservationist Doug Tallamy and how we can be stewards of nature starting in our own backyards. Free. Registration suggested at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Aug. 19 Bilingual Storytime, Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Bern Township, 10-11 a.m. Join Miss Lucia for a story. Stories read in Spanish and English will share a nature-theme, accompanied by activities and a craft. Geared toward ages 3-7. Free. Registration suggested at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Aug. 22 Concert by Pure Jerry, Grings Mill Recreation Area, 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Spring Township, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Food trucks: Lio Colon Food Bus, Grecos Italian Ices and Homemade Ice Cream. Free. Aug. 23 Theorem Painting Workshop, Beidler House, 1130 Old River Road, Robeson Township, 1-3 p.m. This workshop offers a basic introduction to Theorem Painting, and youll have the chance to create your own painting from our selection of designs. For more info call 610-374-8839. Registration fee $5; $25 material fee. Registration required at countyofberks.recdesk.com/Community/Program. Sept. 6-7 Mohnton Cumru Lions Club Music and Makers Market, Mohnton Memorial Park, 198 E. Wyomissing St., Mohnton, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday with live music by Emme Ryan and Stephanie Grace Band; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday with live music by Dave Mell Blues Band and Blue Waters. Corn hole tournament on Saturday, duck race, kids activities, food trucks and adult beverages. For more information visit mohntoncumrulions.com. THE HAGUE, Netherlands Germanys coalition government has approved legislation meant to streamline defense-procurement procedures, as officials face the task of translating vast military budget increases of coming years into new capabilities. The Bundeswehr Procurement Acceleration Act (Bundeswehrbeschaffungsbeschleunigungsgesetz, in German), agreed upon by the ruling coalition on July 23, represents the most significant overhaul of German military procurement since the Cold War. The law extends until 2035 and goes far beyond the temporary measures introduced in 2022 following Russias invasion of Ukraine. German minister of defense Boris Pistorius called the draft law a quantum leap for the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One provision removes the stop-work period that typically follows legal challenges against contract awards. Unsuccessful bidders currently have the power to delay procurement for years through court appeals, a mechanism that defense officials blame for chronic capability gaps. The reform also allows procurement authorities to initiate contracts without secured financing if its in the interest of national defense. A disclosure to that effect would be required in tender documents to industry, according to the draft law. Unlike its 2022 predecessor package, which focused on military equipment and was due to expire in 2026, the new law covers all Bundeswehr needs, including civilian goods and services. Certain urgent contracts will be able to bypass European Union tendering requirements entirely, limiting competition to national or European suppliers. Three years ago, the law that the new legislation will build on was criticized for weakening institutional guardrails. At the time, Transparency International said in a report that in its current form, the [law] primarily increases the risk of corruption in military procurements, which are already particularly prone to corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new legislation permits authorities to restrict tenders to EU and European Economic Area bidders and mandate that procurement originate from European sources. Which country we buy from depends on who can quickly offer the required material, Annette Lehnigk-Emden, director-general of the Bundeswehrs procurement agency, told Reuters in a written interview. Some observers have argued that the new rules will inevitably favor large defense companies, several of which are based in Europe, at the expense of startups trying to break into the military market. The temporary suspension of lot splitting and the privileged treatment in case of interoperability favor suppliers that are already firmly anchored in NATO and EU structures, wrote Holger Hofmann of the Cologne-based Oppenhoff legal advisory firm. In addition, financing risks hit small bidders much harder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably absent from the reforms is any change to the parliamentary approval requirement for defense purchases exceeding 25 million ($29 million), a threshold that requires the budget committees green light. The legislation comes as Germany prepares to nearly double defense spending to meet NATOs new spending goals and domestic ambitions, with military expenditure rising from 90 billion ($105.5 billion) in 2024 to 162 billion ($190 billion) by 2029. Although the Cabinet has agreed on the draft law, it still needs to pass through Germanys parliament before it enters into law. The governing coalition holds a sufficient majority in parliament. CHETAIBI, Algeria (AP) A scenic beach town on Algeria's Mediterranean coastline has become the center of a clash over mens bathing suits, pitting religious and conservative values against tourist habits. Chetaibi, a town of 8,000 known for its turquoise waters, rocky coves, and forested hills, draws thousands of Algerian beachgoers each summer. Seasonal tourism is a cornerstone of the local economy. The mood is warm, welcoming, colorful, bustling no hostility toward bathers, not in words, not in looks. People here have a tradition of hospitality, said Salah Edine Bey, a longtime resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his view, there was little sign of controversy, until there was. Earlier this month, some vacationers and business owners were caught off guard when the towns mayor issued a decree banning beachgoers from walking around in Bermuda shorts, calling the attire indecent in contrast to the longer, looser shorts preferred by conservative male beachgoers. These summer outfits disturb the population, they go against our societys moral values and sense of decency, Mayor Layachi Allaoua wrote. The population can no longer tolerate seeing foreigners wandering the streets in indecent clothing," he added, referencing visitors from elsewhere in Algeria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The order sparked immediate backlash from officials, including in the regional capital Annaba, who called on the mayor to revoke it. The mayor reversed the decree within two days. On Facebook, he insisted his order wasnt driven by Islamist pressure, but by a desire to preserve peace and tranquility for both residents and guests. Still, the episode tapped into deeper tensions over religion, identity, and public space in a country that remains haunted by a civil war that killed an estimated 200,000 people throughout the 1990s. The conflict began in 1991, when the army canceled elections that an Islamist party was set to win. The so-called black decade ended long ago. But it left unresolved some underlying friction between political Islam and Algerias military-backed secular state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though Islamists lost the war in the 1990s, they never gave up on their invasive and intrusive ideological project, which has gained ground in society, said sociologist Redouane Boudjemaa. For some, the beach debate echoed that earlier era, when Islamist-run municipalities tried to reshape public life in line with religious doctrine. For many Algerians, particularly in underserved regions, political Islam remains popular not out of extremism, but as a reaction to corruption, inequality, and distrust in state institutions. While Islamist parties have mostly fared poorly at the ballot box, they play a large role in daily life, filling social and moral voids. In neighboring Jijel, residents have roped off parts of the beach for mass prayers, with videos of the scenes circulating online and dividing opinion. For Halim Kabir, its a stark reminder of the past. In the 1990s, Islamists who won local elections in Jijel imposed stricter rules on public behavior. Today, cars parked near the beach have been vandalized with warnings telling beachgoers to go sin elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its provocation, Kabir said. An attempt to drive away visitors from other regions. Said Boukhlifa, a former senior official at the Ministry of Tourism, warned that conservative groups are exploiting Algerias economic troubles, as falling gas revenues strain the state, to expand their influence. That, he said, could undermine the countrys ambitions to grow its tourism sector. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) Kentuckys business community had an extended sit-down with Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday. Many in the room came to hear more about how Kentucky continues to grow and what is being done to make Kentucky competitive for the next business to locate here. What were told over and over that were the very best at is speed to market. So if you are a new business or you have a major expansion, we will get you up and running faster than any other state, Beshear said. In the hour-long conversation hosted by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Kentuckys workforce participation, housing needs, energy demands, and more were all issues on the table for Beshear to give a status report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why did we fight so hard for the battery plants? Because that is where automotive is going. Even if it takes a little longer. GM just announced they had doubled their EV sales. And so while its not as aggressive as an uptick as people once expected, it is still expected to be the dominant future of that industry, Beshear said, addressing market uneasiness around electric vehicles. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Beshear was critical of recent moves happening in DC, like tariffs, noting Kentuckys status as a major player in exports. Trade data from the Office of the US Trade Representative shows Kentucky is the 13th largest state exporter in the country, and exports make up 17 percent of the states GDP. However, Beshear also credited the Trump administration with a solid FEMA response to recent disasters. As Beshears national spotlight grows, from a recent Vogue magazine feature to last weeks trips to South Carolina, many more ears are perking up when the governor mentions national politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, Im speaking out because I believe we need a reasonable, common-sense, common-ground, get-things-done type of voice that is out there, Beshear said, answering a question about his future. Latest central Kentucky weather forecast Beshear said he doesnt want to leave a broken country to his kids when he decides whats next after 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 FOX 56 News. Originally appeared on E! Online Bethany Funkea roommate of the University of Idaho murder victimsis reliving her worst nightmare. Weeks after Bryan Kohberger confessed to the 2022 murders of students Kaylee Gonclaves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, Bethany expressed regret over not being able to prevent the tragedy. I not only lost some of my best friends, but I also lost a sister, Bethany wrote in a victim impact statement, which was read to Judge Steven Hippler in court July 23, of the night her roommates were found fatally stabbed at their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho. Never in a million years would I have thought that something like this wouldve happened to my closest friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 21-year-old went on to recount exactly what she remembered from the morning of November 13, 2022. When I first woke up that morning, I had no idea what happened, she continued in her statement. I woke up around 7 with a terrible toothache so I called my dad who is a dentist. He told me to take Advil, so I did and I went back to sleep. More from E! Online When she awoke, she shared that she was still out of it and still didnt know what happened, adding, If I had known, I of course wouldve called 911 right away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And from that day on, Bethany has been struggling to grapple with the fact that she could not prevent the horrific events of that night. I still carry so much regret and guilt for not knowing what had happened and not calling right away, she admitted, even though I understand it wouldnt have changed anythingnot even if the paramedics had been right outside the door. I was so frantic that morning and scared to death not knowing what had happened and when I made a 911 call, I couldnt even get out the words, she added. From then on, I dont remember a thing. It was like my brain wiped that whole memory. Instagram And while she described that day as the worst of her life, the survivors guilt and emotional traumalater echoed in court by fellow surviving roommate Dylan Mortensenhave long endured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the longest time, I could not even look at their families without feeling sick with guilt, she shared. I did not know what to say or what to do. I was terrified that my presence just made their pain worse. I was still here when their kid, their siblings, their friends, their loved ones shouldve been here instead. On top of that, Bethany was navigating waves of public criticism on social media as well as the fear that whoever did this was going to come for her next. Zach Wilkinson-Pool/Getty Images I was getting flooded with death threats and hateful messages of people who did not know me at all or know the dynamic of our friendship, she recalled. The media harassed not just me but also my family. People showed up at our house, they called my phone, my parents phones, other family members phonesand we were chased while I was still trying to survive emotionally and grieve. Because while four of her closest friends lives were taken that night, she couldnt understand why she got to live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a long time, I could barely get out of bed, she admitted. But one day I realized I have to live for them. They did not get the chance to keep living, but I do. And I cannot take that for granted. So now, every day I remind myself to live for them. Everything I do, I do with them in mind. For more on the Idaho murders, keep reading. Who Were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were University of Idaho students who lived in an off-campus apartment. On Nov. 12, 2022the night before their bodies were foundGoncalves and Mogen were at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin were at the latters fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on Nov. 13, the four roommates and Chapin were back at the three-story rental house. Goncalves was a senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. She was expected to graduate in December before heading to Austin, Texas, for a job at a marketing firm, her friend Jordyn Quesnell told The New York Times. Mogen, who was studying marketing, was best friends with Goncalves since the sixth grade. She had plans to move to Boise after graduation, family friend Jessie Frost shared with The Idaho Statesman. Kernodle was a junior majoring in marketing, the University said at the time. She and Chapinwho majored in recreation, sport and tourism managementhad been dating since the spring, the roommates neighbor Ellie McKnight told NBC News. Were There Any Survivors? Two roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, had been home at the time of the murders. In text messages that were unsealed March 6, 2025, Mortensen and Funke tried contacting their roommates on Nov. 13 after the former saw a masked man moving through the house, according to documents obtained by E! News. "No one is answering," Mortensen texted Funke at 4:22 a.m. "I'm rlly confused rn." She continued to reach out to their roommates, urging them to respond. "Pls answer," she texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m. and again at 10:23 a.m. "R u up??" At 11:58 a.m., a 911 call was placed after Kernodle was found unresponsive, per an additional motion obtained by E! News. A woman named A1 in the transcript described the current situation to the operator. "One of the roommates who's passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up," she said on the phone. "They saw some man in their house last night." Who Is Bryan Kohberger and How Was He Found? Bryan Kohberger, who was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, was a doctoral candidate at Washington State University. Over one month after the bodies of Gonclaves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were discovered, Kohberger was taken into custody Dec. 30 in Monroe County, Penn. He was extradited to Idaho Jan. 4, 2023. As for how authorities connected him to the killings? DNA was found on a knife sheath that was left at the crime scene, prosecutors revealed in June 2023 court documents, per NBC News. When the DNA didn't match anyone in the FBI database, authorities ran the DNA through public ancestry websites to create a list of potential suspects, according to the filings. After learning that Kohberger had driven to his parents' home in Monroe County, local officials then went through their trash and found DNA that tied him to that found on the sheath. What Was Kohbergers Initial Defense? At the moment, a motive for the attack has not been detailed and a gag order prevents many involved in the case from speaking publicly, NBC News reported. However, the unsealed documents provided some insight into their initial arguments. Kohberger's attorneys argued in a motion obtained by E! News to strike the death penalty that Kohbergerwho initially faced death penalty if found guilty on all countshas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that executing him would violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on "cruel and unusual punishment." His defense argued that Kohbereger "displays extremely rigid thinking, perseverates on specific topics, processes information on a piecemeal basis, struggles to plan ahead, and demonstrates little insight into his own behaviors and emotions." "Due to his ASD, Mr. Kohberger simply cannot comport himself in a manner that aligns with societal expectations of normalcy," the motion said. "This creates an unconscionable risk that he will be executed because of his disability rather than his culpability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where Was the Trial Set? Initially, Kohberger had a judge enter a not-guilty plea to the first-degree murder charges on his behalf after remaining silent at his May 2023 arraignment. Although his trial was set to begin Oct. 2, 2023, Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial in August 2023. His trial datewhich was scheduled to take place in Ada County, more than 300 miles from Latah County, where the killings took placewas set to begin Aug. 11, 2025. Latah County Judge John Judge previously ruled in favor of the transfer request made by Kohberger's defense in September 2024 based on "presumed prejudice" if the trial remained in Latah County. Ada County Judge Steven Hippler denied the defense's request to suppress key DNA and other evidence, including cell phone and email records, surveillance footage, past Amazon purchases and DNA evidence in the trial. What Was the Verdict in the Trial? Kohberger's murder trial was abruptly canceled after he took a plea deal from prosecutors on June 30, 2025. In accepting the deal, Kohberger agreed to plead guilty to four counts of murder and one count of burglary, as well as waive his rights to appeal and ask for a more lenient prison sentence. He entered his guilty plea on July 2, 2025, confirming with a "yes" after the judge asked if he killed all four victims "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought." Did Kohberger Take a Selfie After the Murders? A selfie Kohberger took the morning after the murders took place was introduced in March 2025. The photograph, which sees him in front of a shower showing a thumbs up, displays how he may fit the description a witness identified as "D.M." gave in filings, who said the perpetrator had "bushy eyebrows." Steve Gonclaves, the father of victim Kaylee, later reacted to the image calling it a "trophy" in an interview with Fox and Friends. "I know the timeline, I know that he had just returned to the crime scene and he had come back," Gonclaves said. "He had realized that nobody had called 911." As he put it, "To him, thats his little trophy to let him know like, Hey, I got away with it, nobodys on me. What Did Kohberger Google Before the Murders? In a 2025 Dateline documentary about the murders, a former classmate of Kohbergers detailed a peculiar text she received from him after making his acquaintance at a party. I definitely felt a little obligated to chat with him, because to me, he seemed a little awkward, the studentidentified as Hollyexplained. Kind of like you might expect for a PhD student who didn't know anyone at the party and was maybe trying his best to kind of get out there and be social and make friends. The following day, Holly said she received a text from him, which she described as overly formal. Hey, I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday, Bryans text from July 10, 2022 at 1:19 p.m., read, per Dateline. I really enjoy that activity, so please let me know. Thanks! Elsewhere in the Dateline documentary, Kohbergers browsing history was found to have included searches for Ted Bundy, Britney Spears song Criminal, and the term University of Idaho Murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) As flood recovery efforts continue following the July 4 flooding, the Better Business Bureau is urging San Angelo residents to be cautious when hiring contractors for repairs. Consumers are in a rush right now to get everything fixed, which rightfully so, said Rease Dickey of the BBB. But in this case, that you know youre rushing to get it fixed and youre not doing a good job at researching who is doing the job. Are they, you know, vetted? Are they trustworthy people? Are they going to pack up and leave in three months, and theyre not their jobs not finished, or somethings wrong? Are you able to call them and come back? And thats kind of what weve seen. Weve seen already, and we want to make sure that we can prevent for the future. The BBB has seen an increase in door-to-door contractors arriving in San Angelo, some from out of town, and warns that some may charge inflated prices or fail to complete work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you dont choose to go with an accredited business that through us, its important to make sure that you check for this. I need to make sure that the businesses are registered. Licensed professionals should always have licensing, so you need to make sure that theyre up to date with that, Dickey said. To help residents, the bureau is distributing flood relief packets listing trusted, vetted businesses. If they have the BBB logo on it, you know, nine out of ten times, theyre trustworthy and its important that you call and we can verify it for you just to give you guys a safe and assuring way to know that you know your work and your house is going to be taken care of. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, but the focus is now shifting to long-term repairs. Whats the next step? And thats what people are beginning now to look at, and thats why we push so hard now, or were trying to push to the consumers of how important it is to while all in the crazy of everything is to make sure you do your research. Dickey emphasized the importance of working with accredited members, explaining that the bureau has vetted more than 600 local businesses in various trades, including contractors, electricians, drywall specialists, landscapers and more. Residents can pick up booklets with vetted business listings at the BBB office or request them via mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also cautioned against scams and businesses that may disappear after taking payment. Its so easy to just get wrapped up on, you know what they you know, they promise their word, its going to go all well, and then, like I said, three months later, or a year down the line, theyre nowhere to be found. Theyre nowhere to fix your, you know, their mistakes or come back. And so its just important that you do your research. The bureau said recovery will be a long-term process, possibly lasting years, and reiterated that the BBB will continue to support the community by vetting businesses and offering guidance. For more information or assistance, San Angelo residents can contact the Better Business Bureau at 3149 Executive Drive or 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com. BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) One of the areas biggest art events of the year is returning to the Downtown Beckley area. Lee Dean to swing by for Music in the Park The annual BEX Art Festival has brought together creators of all types each year, who bring out their work for the community-based event. The event spotlights local talent and showcases the wide range of creativity to be found right here in Beckley. We have an enormous amount of artistic talent. From performers, theatre, music, visual artists, writers we have all that stuff right here in Beckley, BEX Art Festival Co-Founder and Vice President, Shane Pierce told 59News. This festival is a way for us to kind of take all those individual piece and people and mediums who are maybe kind of working on their own and say, okay, lets all focus our energies for a weekend. From music to visual art and much more, the weekend will be packed with events and activities. Full schedule details can be found at the BEX event page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The BEX Art Festival gets started Friday, July, 25, 2025 in uptown Beckley. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) Bhagavan Doc Antles Myrtle Beach Safari remains federally certified through October, federal documents show prompting one of the nations largest animal rights groups to ask for an immediate shutdown in light of his wildlife trafficking conviction. On Wednesday, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to launch an investigation into Sugriva Co. LLC which is operating Antles company under a USDA certificate that expires Oct. 20, according to online records. Antles own certificate was cancelled on Jan. 8, 2024, shortly after he pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy and money laundering charges. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Lawson III earlier this month sentenced Antle to one year and a day in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That came nearly two years after Antle admitted to violating the Lacey Act, which prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including federally protected animal species. PETA claims Sugriva Co. LLCs license is a way for Antle to circumvent the denial of his own permit since its registered to China York, an Antle confidant. Antle is still inextricably intertwined with (Myrtle Beach Safari), so much so that he leads animal encounters, exhibits under the MBS license and made statements during his sentencing hearing that demonstrate that there is no meaningful separation between Antle and MBS, PETA attorney Danielle Palermo said in her letter. As recently as July 17, Antle filmed a child riding his elephant Bubbles on the Myrtle Beach Safari property. Three days earlier, he was in a swimming pool with chimpanzees Sugriva and Vali, Instagram posts show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antles actions show a deliberate disregard for the Animal Welfare Act and should send the USDA a message that he and his associates believe they can freely violate the law without consequence, Palermo said. During his July 8 sentencing, prosecutors depicted Antle as the central figure in a nationwide black market that bought, sold and transported federally protected animals for decades without consequence behind the guise of a conservationist. Mr. Antle is who all these people are imitating, said Patrick Duggan, a Justice Department attorney who specializes in environmental cases. People want to emulate what he has done. He has become wealthy and famous doing it. Dugan said that despite the quality care the illegal animals might have received once in Antles possession, his actions helped promote poaching, smuggling and other criminal behavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the pursuit of all those endangered species for profit, he is driving a very lucrative trade, Duggan said. This was a long-term, ongoing offense. Antle issued a statement one day after his sentencing. Likely, the Courts sentence reflected an understanding that the wildlife violations had nothing to do with animal neglect or abuse but instead centered around Mr. Antles failure to obtain the necessary permits, the statement reads. He is also grateful that the Court recognized his lifetime of care and commitment to wildlife around the globe and went further to state in open court that the evidence demonstrated that Mr. Antle, his staff, and Myrtle Beach Safari were loving, dedicated, loyal, and effective caregivers to the more than 150 animals in their care. * * * Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Joe Biden has hired a new personal lawyer whose previous work for the January 6 select committee has uniquely prepared her to represent a former president at the center of a congressional investigation. Buried in a New York Times story about Bidens use of an autopen to sign pardons was the news that Biden has hired prominent Washington attorney Amy Jeffress as his personal counsel, replacing longtime Obama-Biden ally Bob Bauer. Jeffress takes on representation of the 46th president at a sensitive time, as House Republicans and the Justice Department step up investigations into pardons issued by Biden and the actions of his staffers in the final months of his administration. Jeffress has taken on multiple cases in recent years that have put her at odds with President Donald Trump or his allies. But representing a former president is a career first for her that could place her under a brighter spotlight than shes experienced before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Biden] will need a fierce defender who will undertake that work in a very thoughtful way, said former deputy attorney general Jamie Gorelick, who hired Jeffress for her first role at the Justice Department. You will not find [Jeffress] doing lots of interviews or undertaking publicity campaigns for herself. Bidens post-presidential office and Jeffress declined to comment. Jeffress served as a federal prosecutor and counselor to Attorney General Eric Holder, and held other significant roles over a two-decade career at the Justice Department. Jeffress left the Justice Department for private practice in 2014, first to go to law firm Arnold & Porter and now at boutique firm Hecker Fink. In private practice, Jeffress has not shied away from politically sensitive clients. During Trumps first term, Jeffress represented former FBI lawyer Lisa Page as she became a focal point for MAGA outrage over the Justice Departments Russia investigation. More recently, Jeffress was part of the team representing special counsel Hampton Dellinger, who was fired by Trump and sued in an effort to remain in his post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If I needed counsel Amy would very definitely be on my short list," said former U.S. Solicitor General Seth Waxman, who has known Jeffress since she was in middle school. Waxman worked with Jeffress father, himself a prominent Washington attorney, prior to joining the Justice Department. Thats not her only family connection to the law Jeffress is married to Christopher Cooper, a federal judge in Washington who has dealt with numerous petitions related to Trumps flurry of executive actions. Jeffress behind the scenes work for the Jan. 6 select committee might be her most relevant experience when it comes to representing Biden. In early 2022, multiple former Trump officials who had been subpoenaed by the committee filed lawsuits seeking judicial orders that would stop them from having to testify or turn over documents sought by the committee. The relatively small House general counsels office turned to outside lawyers, including Jeffress, for pro-bono help in responding to the high volume of cases. Jeffress was very heavily involved in the process of drafting legal arguments to defend subpoenas issued by the committee, said Doug Letter, former House general counsel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That gave her firsthand knowledge of the complex legal questions that surround House subpoenas to executive branch officials. This makes perfect sense for Biden to hire her, Letter said. Bidens aides have their own lawyers, and Jeffress would likely not be responsible for handling any legal challenges on their behalf. But her role as the presidents lawyer places her at the center of Biden-worlds response to parallel Justice Department and House Oversight Committee investigations into Bidens mental acuity and whether White House staff used an autopen to unilaterally sign pardons on his behalf. If Biden or his aides ever try to invoke executive privilege in response to House or Justice Department subpoenas, Jeffress would play an important role in the subsequent legal fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When representing the Jan. 6 committee she would have done all the research and familiarized herself with the case law and the rules and traditions of the House on subpoenas, particularly in the context of executive privilege which is what shes going to be raising now, said a person who participated in legal battles over executive privilege on behalf of Trump, granted anonymity because they were not authorized to share details of that work. Her role will be to help President Biden navigate that and that will involve coordinating with other lawyers who are representing people close to him, the person said. And I think shes well prepared to do that. Back in April, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it would phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes by the end of next year a move that further enforces Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s ongoing efforts to Make America Healthy Again. Although the agency and the food industry dont have a formal agreement to remove artificial dyes, several major companies have recently decided to remove such additives from their products in the coming years. Quietly but collectively, Big Food seems to be preparing for a future with fewer neon-colored snacks and fewer ingredients pulled from a chemical lab. From school lunch nuggets to iconic candies, heres a look at the big names removing artificial dyes from their shelves and whats driving the change. 01 PepsiCo The companys big name snack brands, like Lays and Tostitos, will stop using artificial colors by the end of this year. At an April 24 earnings call, PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said the transition is underway, with more than 60 percent of its business already lacking artificial color at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We obviously stand by the science and our products are very safe and theres nothing to worry about this, Laguarta told investors. Ideally, we can do this in a very pragmatic, orchestrated way as an industry and not create unnecessary panic or chaos. But, well lead that transition. Per a USA Today report, Laguarta said PepsiCo will also lead an anticipated consumer demand for more natural ingredients as it has with sodium and sugar reduction and better fats. The vast majority of our retail-branded Tyson products, including our Tyson Dino Nuggets, Tyson Chicken Nuggets, Tyson Chicken Bites and Jimmy Dean Maple Griddle Cakes, do not contain any of these types of dyes, and we have been proactively reformulating those few products that do, King said. 02 Tyson Foods Tyson Foods has been proactively reformulating food products that contain petroleum-based synthetic dyes, Reuters reported in May. The company said it plans to eliminate these dyes from its production process by the end of May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CEO Donnie King said in an earnings call that most of Tysons retail-branded products do not contain artificial dyes. Tyson products offered in school nutrition programs also dont include any petroleum-based synthetic dyes, King added. 03 Sams Club Sams Club said it will get rid of more than 40 ingredients from its private label brand, Members Mark, by the end of this year. We take pride in the high-quality ingredients that go into our products, but what truly differentiates us are the ingredients we consciously leave out, Julie Barber, chief merchant at Sams Club, said, per KNWA news. Our Made Without commitment underscores our aspiration to be members go-to destination for quality at a disruptive value. For us, its about listening to our members and providing the items that resonate with their lifestyles. In addition to eliminating certified synthetic colors, Sams Club plans to remove aspartame, high fructose corn syrup, sucrose polyester and more additives as part of its Made Without initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warehouse retail chain said it has released cookies and additional snacks without artificial colors. 04 Mars, Inc. The candymaker announced in late May that it would no longer use titanium dioxide, a potentially carcinogenic additive that was banned in the European Union in 2022, to make Skittles in the U.S. Mars said in 2016 that it would stop using all artificial colours in its foods, but failed to remove titanium dioxide from its food products within a timely manner despite an agreement with Center for Food Safety and consumer advocacy groups. 05 General Mills General Mills announced in June that it would remove certified colors from all of its food products by the end of 2027. The company noted that about 85% of its U.S. products are already made without the harmful dyes. Additionally, nearly all of its food products offered in school nutrition programs are already free of artificial dyes. Across the long arc of our history, General Mills has moved quickly to meet evolving consumer needs, and reformulating our product portfolio to remove certified colors is yet another example, said General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening. 06 Kraft Heinz In a June 17 press release, Kraft Heinz the food and beverage manufacturer of several fan-favorite products, including Kraft Mac and Cheese, Heinz ketchup, Jell-O and Kool-Aid said it would eliminate all artificial dyes used in its products by the end of 2027. The company specified that nearly 90 percent of its U.S. products are already free of synthetic color additives, also known as FD&C colors. For the remaining 10 percent of products, Kraft Heinz has invested significant resources and mobilized a team to remove colors that arent critical to the consumer experience, replace FD&C colors with natural substitutes and reinvent new colors that dont have natural alternatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a food company with a 150+ year heritage, we are continuously evolving our recipes, products, and portfolio to deliver superiority to consumers and customers, said Pedro Navio, North America President at Kraft Heinz. The vast majority of our products use natural or no colors, and weve been on a journey to reduce our use of FD&C colors across the remainder of our portfolio. In fact, we removed artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors from our beloved Kraft Mac & Cheese back in 2016. Our iconic Heinz Tomato Ketchup has never had artificial dyes the red color comes simply from the worlds best tomatoes. Above all, we are focused on providing nutritious, affordable, and great-tasting food for Americans and this is a privilege we dont take lightly. Kraft Heinzs decision was praised by Kennedy, who called it a voluntary step that proves that when the government sets clear, science-based standards, the food industry listens and acts. I urge more companies to follow this lead and put the well-being of American families first, Kennedy concluded his post to X. Together, we will Make America Healthy Again. 07 Conagra Brands The parent company of Duncan Hines, Reddi-wip and Slim Jim announced that it will remove artificial colors from its frozen foods by the end of this year. Conagra also wont offer products containing artificial dyes to K-12 schools by the 2026-2027 school year and plans to eliminate such dyes entirely by the end of 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duncan Hines Comstock County Cherry pie filling and its Creamy Strawberries n Cream Frosting still contain artificial colors, including Red 40 and Yellow 5, News Nation reported. Conagras Swiss Miss Butterscotch pudding contains Yellow 6, Red 40 and Blue 1. 08 Nestle The company said it will remove artificial dyes from its U.S. food and beverages by the middle of 2026, according to The Associated Press. Nestle said its been removing such dyes from its products over the last decade, with 90% of its U.S. products not containing synthetic colors. The brands Nesquik Banana Strawberry milk still contains Red No. 3, which the FDA has urged food companies to phase out by the end of next year. Serving and delighting people is at the heart of everything we do and every decision that we make, Nestles U.S. CEO Marty Thompson said in a statement. 09 J.M. Smucker J.M. Smucker Co. announced that it would remove artificial colors from its products by the end of 2027. The company sait it would also remove artificial dyes from food products sold to K-12 schools by the 2026-2027 school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Products like sugar-free jams and ice cream toppings still contain such additives, Smucker said. The company specified that most of its products, including its Uncrustables sandwiches, are already free of artificial dyes. Some products from Hostess, which Smucker acquired in 2023, contain artificial colors. They include items like Twinkies (made with Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5) and Snoballs snack cakes (made with Red No. 40 Lake). The post Big Food gets a makeunder appeared first on Salon.com. Sebastian Leon Martinez had pounded the pavement for New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani from frigid 23-degree cold snaps in January to the 100-degree day in June when the young democratic socialist stunned the political establishment by winning the primary for the Democratic nomination. That night, Martinez, a 20-year-old NYU student, found himself sweaty, laughing, incredibly tired at Mamdanis victory party in Queens. It was a monumental moment, Martinez told me a week later. A lot of people around me were crying and laughing, he recalled. Talking about how weve changed the political system, not only in New York City, but probably for the entire Democratic Party in the country. But as the 33-year-old candidates supporters cheered Mamdanis win, business titans from Wall Street to Silicon Valley slid into panic mode at the thought of a socialist running New York City. Hedge fund billionaire Daniel Loeb warned of a hot commie summer in a post on X. Fellow billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman pledged to bankroll any New York City mayoral candidate capable of defeating Mamdani. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is Gen Z rejecting capitalism outright, some wondered, as their millennial counterparts tried to do with the Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011? Could Mamdanis win spark a full embrace of socialism by the next generation, fulfilling dire predictions about the imminent demise of late capitalism? In a word: no. Thats what I heard in a series of conversations with members of Gen Z and those who study them in the business and political spheres. Most scoffed at the notion that young people are rejecting capitalism on a large scale, or planning any kind of a revolution. Were not seeing young people go live on communes, said Shana Gadarian, a professor of political science at Syracuse University. Theyre working at banks, theyre starting gig economies, theyre working in high tech. If thats not capitalism, Im not clear what would be. If theres a message for political and business leaders to glean from the youth movement buoying Mamdani, its perhaps a simpler one: Stop bullshitting us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Gen Z is asking for is honesty, explained Ziad Ahmed, the 26-year-old head of United Talent Agencys Gen Zfocused marketing advisory practice, Next Gen. If the world is on fire, tell me the world is on fire. Dont tell me that actually, you might like the heat. I heard over and over that young people are deeply discontented or disillusioned with the status quo. Saad Amer, a New Yorkbased climate activist and founder of the sustainability consultancy Justice Environment, said the next generation has been told a fable of how to succeed in America. What Gen Z is asking for is honesty. If the world is on fire, tell me the world is on fire. Dont tell me that actually, you might like the heat. Ziad Ahmed, Head of Next Gen at United Talent Agency Young people are sold the story of, Go to school, get good grades, go to college, and then youll get a great job, and youll own a home, and youll have a family, Amer said. I look around at my peers, and thats not true for any single one of them. Instead, he said, he sees people stuck in careers that they find unfulfillingand that are also having disastrous impacts on their mental health and the planet at large. Its clear that what were being told isnt true. Its not just liberal Gen Zers who feel this way. Rachel Janfaza, the 27-year-old founder of youth political culture newsletter The Up and Up, regularly holds listening sessions with young voters across the country. She has seen similar frustrations on the Republican side of the aisle, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive certainly heard young people on the right who are very anti-billionaire and antiestablishment talk in the same way that we hear young people on the left, she said. This type of rhetoric exists on both sides. And I think there are a lot of similarities in why Trump resonates with young people and why perhaps Mamdani resonated with young people. Janfaza boils it down to one key issue: economic anxiety. And its not just in their heads. The average age of first-time U.S. homebuyers hit a record high last year at 38. In the countrys 30 largest metros, more than half of Gen Z renters are rent-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on rent, Zillow found. And nearly a quarter of millennials and Gen Zers without children do not plan to become parents, primarily owing to financial stress, according to a recent report from MassMutual. Its no wonder, then, that instead of career politicians, Gen Zers are embracing outsider candidates who speak bluntly to this economic anxietya strength of Mamdanis, and arguably Trumps too. Theyre done with dated rhetoric, PR talking points, and leaders siloing themselves in boardrooms instead of meeting Gen Zers where they are, Ahmed told me. Business leaders, take note. Members of Gen Z arent just craving real talkand actionfrom politicians; theyre also demanding it of their CEOs. Younger workers want the same things previous generations wanted: fair pay, rewarding work, mentorship, job security, a clear and fair path to advancementand theyre not going to be content with kombucha-filled fridges or other office perks. This is a generation that has grown up with school shootings so frequent theyve become normalized, with massive student debt, and in the shadow of a looming climate crisis. Of course they are demanding changeboth from their politicians and their employers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charlene Li, an author who advises companies on digital transformation, told me that the two key value for Gen Z workers are honesty and fairness. Both require transparency: Leaders need to clearly state how success is measured and offer concrete opportunities and financial rewards to employees who meet these measures, she says. Bleak outlook Gen Z cant take for granted the life milestones older generations expected to hit. 38 The record-high average age of first-time U.S. homebuyers in 2024 23% Percentage of childless Millennials and Gen Zers who dont plan to become parents, primarily for financial reasons Sources: National Association of Realtors; MassMutual The word purpose is frequently used by consultancies and business advisors to describe what Gen Z truly wants in a workplace. But what does that look like in practice? At the Fortune Workplace Innovation Summit in May, Ahmed told me that workers should understand the why behind every business decision. Managers must clearly articulate their reasoningto both their workers and customers, he said. I dont think it has to be as lofty as changing the world, because Gen Z also has a huge bullshit filter, and doesnt want you to say that you stand for everything if you dont, Ahmed said. Authenticity is everything. A good starting point would be a more straightforward discussion of diversity and equity, Li says. Instead of relying upon box-checking or acronyms such as DEI, she advises business leaders to take a hard look at the demographics of who is getting promotions and raises, and to think critically about companyand C-suitemakeup: Thats what people are looking for, not just Gen Z, she said. Were looking for some authenticity between what you have on your walls and on your websites and how you actually show up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Business leaders also need to listen to younger workerstheir complaints, thoughts, and opinions about the business and the world. That doesnt mean you need to hold a town hall tomorrow on the merits of Marxism, but it does require a certain level of respect and thoughtfulness, even for views that leaders disagree with. For Gen Z, politics are very personal, Li said. Work is going to be deeply personal to them. This is not something where they want to go in and just check off the list. So will you be ready to take that energy and bottle it and direct it? Mamdanis win seems to have brought to the surface generational tensions and anxieties that had been simmering long before he became a political celebrity. Elizabeth Spiers, a progressive digital strategist and journalist, said political and business leaders tend to conflate younger generations criticism of economic systems with political extremism. They sort of treat capitalism like its a sacred cow that can never be spoken of in anything less than glowing terms, Spiers said. But the precarities that young people face are real, she said: Theyve grown up in an economic environment where a lot of those myths have sort of fallen apart in front of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Addressing the disillusionment of young people who see corporate hierarchies as fundamentally unfair will take more than just better workplace communication; young people are also demanding real action to improve their economic prospects, both from politicians and from the business world. Amer, who advises Fortune 500 C-suite executives on climate impact, said he has been seeing the fear in business leaders eyes when talking about how to work with and engage a young workforce. These corporations do have a role that they should be playing, and I think they are actively trying to figure out the role, he said. But to the younger generation, the role seems obvious: Do better. This article appears in the August/September 2025 issue of Fortune with the headline Gen Zs wake-up call to corporate America. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com The docks piled like Lego blocks are gone and the Sea Hag Marina stands again one beneficiary of $10 billion in federal emergency aid thats flowed to Florida in the wake of three 2024 hurricanes that roared along the Gulf Coast. Its a far cry from the muddied and chaotic scene Danielle Norwood surveyed Sept. 27 in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene roaring along the Steinhatchee Rivers banks. Thats where she and her husband have operated their multifaceted business with boat and shack rentals, boat storage and bar service for more than 25 years. Now, thanks to insurance, some $60,000 donated through a GoFundMe campaign, lots of elbow grease and some money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the marina has three cash registers working for scalloping season, the busiest part of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were still working on (replacing) the docks, Norwood said. You cant insure the docks, so thats $1 million in docks we lost in (Hurricane) Idalia (in 2023) and in Helene. FEMA is still paying on Florida claims for the damage wrought by 2024's trio of storms, hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton, amid debate about whether the federal agency should continue to exist. As recently as June, President Donald Trump publicly called FEMA a failed experiment and said it would be wound down after hurricane season. The Washington Post is reporting, however, that the deadly July 4 flooding in Texas may have the administration rethinking FEMAs end. Sea Hag owner Danielle Norwood stands at her business that was damaged after Hurricane Helene hit the area on September 27, 2024 in Steinhatchee, Florida. Just days before the Texas floodwaters rose, leaving more than 130 dead and more missing, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Hollywood, was on the House floor decrying Trumps plans for abolishing FEMA. The plan, although not yet fleshed out, calls for states to receive disaster relief funds in block grants when natural disasters strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says he's going to phase out FEMA after the 2025 hurricane season. If he shuts it down before we have a chance to legislate about how to reform it, then it's going to go away, said Wasserman Schultz, warning that turning disaster relief into a 50-piece patchwork of state-level policies is going to make it even more difficult for people to get reimbursed. FEMA sends more aid to Florida than any other state Theres no denying that the way things are, FEMA sends more money to the Sunshine State than any other. FEMA has been called in for major disasters 21 times over the last 14 years. And as of July 14 278 days since Miltons last winds died down FEMA reported sending $1.6 billion to individual assistance to Floridians, $1 billion in aid to the state and local governments and $7.1 billion in flood insurance settlements for nearly 75,000 Florida property damage claims for the 2024 storms that ravaged the state between Aug. 3 and Oct. 9. Norwood was able to open her business 36 days after Helenes ravages, and she has high praise for how her FEMA claim was handled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought it was easy, personally, Norwood said of her FEMA claim. Someone came out right away, interviewed me, they came back with 10 more things they wanted, I was able to produce all 10 things. And they gave us the money. I cant argue with that, she added. To her, though, it makes more sense to move emergency operations to the state level as Gov. Ron DeSantis and President Trump, both of them Republicans, say they believe should happen. Stories from her neighbors whose requests for aid havent gone as smoothly have convinced her. She said the federal bureaucracy is too far removed from the situation and from understanding why people might not be able to prove their cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think a lot of people couldnt produce the 10 things they wanted, Norwood said, citing the post-storm hardships, heat and bugs. They make you feel like a number. They dont know what its like. Hurricane Debby struck farther north, along the sparsely populated Big Bend, but disaster reports from the county governments hard hit by Helene and Milton's one-two punch paint a picture of just how much of a financial blow these storms delivered. The damage cost has come out in recent reports: Pinellas County, battered by both Helene and Milton, has received nearly $20 million in reimbursement from FEMA and expects another $43 million more for storm needs in its unincorporated areas, an amount equal to nearly 2% of the countys 2025 fiscal year budget. Helene destroyed 533 residences and Milton destroyed 274 more. Counting both the unincorporated area and the cities in Pinellas, 7.2 million cubic yards of debris resulted from the storms the equivalent of nearly 2,202 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Lee County, where 68 residential structures were destroyed in Milton, had to remove 627,201 cubic yards of storms debris the equivalent of nearly 192 Olympic-sized pools. How much FEMA will reimburse for that is still being determined. The countys largest city, Fort Myers, is still waiting for FEMA to reimburse $15 million in submitted damage claims from 2022s Hurricane Ian and estimates that another $9 million in damages need to be submitted to the agency for that storm. Counting the toll of reimbursable damage from Ian, Helene and Milton, Fort Myers has received $25 million from FEMA and is waiting on another $26 million thats either been submitted for reimbursement or pending submission. Thats an amount equivalent to 7% of its proposed budget for the next fiscal year. In Sarasota County, where Milton made landfall, the storms created 2.4 million cubic yards of debris that had to be hauled away the equivalent of nearly 744 Olympic-sized pools. As of June 17, the county has received about $36 million in FEMA reimbursement for debris removal and emergency protective measures. Another $126 million is expected, and the amount of FEMA funding for infrastructure repair is still being determined, according to a county spokesperson. The total or whats been received and whats expected in FEMA reimbursement to Sarasota would amount to about 6.5% of the countys proposed budget for next year. Damage to the Stonemont Financial Groups South Florida Logistics Center 95 Building 1, a 1.1-million-square-foot warehouse located at the southwest corner of Orange Avenue and South Kings Highway, is seen after hit by a tornado as Hurricane Milton begins to cross Florida on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024. DeSantis wants money to go to states directly, says Florida would be fine None of the governments returned requests for comment on possible changes to the funding for disaster relief. DeSantis has said on numerous occasions that Florida would be just fine without FEMA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We've got to get to a point in this country where we stop, stop allowing the bureaucracy to grind everything to a halt, DeSantis said. We can't have bureaucracy overwhelm the purpose of why we're doing some of these government actions to begin with. At the State Fair in February, DeSantis offered something of an outline of how it would be done, calling FEMA a nasty bureaucracy. Downtown Sarasota on Main Street suffered widespread damage to trees, buildings and even these electric rental scooters during Hurricane Milton which struck Sarasota last evening. If a disaster comes, you can take whatever that amount is typically, send 80% of that block grant to the state, cut the bureaucracy of FEMA out entirely, and that money will go further than it currently does at greater amounts, going through the FEMA bureaucracy, DeSantis said. What Trump wants to do, DeSantis said, makes a lot of sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Craig Fugate, former FEMA administrator and director of the Florida Emergency Management Division, disagrees. What's called bureaucracy is in place to ensure that disaster aid is reimbursing uninsured disaster expenditures and being done in a way that complies with federal laws, Fugate said. "What federal agency would give out bags of money without any review or determination that it's being used for its stated purpose?" Fugate asked. He could see changes made in FEMA's process, like using an estimator for the cost of debris removal instead of requiring receipts for reimbursement. But he sees the current discussion oversimplifying the role that FEMA plays in protecting the federal treasury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The potential for kickbacks, waste, fraud and abuse would escalate if disaster aid became a grant from the government. "Who would check that?" he said. Federal study on FEMA's future due to Trump in November Trump, four days after his inauguration, established the FEMA Review Council. The council met July 9 in New Orleans and has a report due to the president in November. The council includes Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who has called for axing FEMA, but, since the Texas floods, has said it needs to be remade. U.S. President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott participate in a roundtable with first responders and local officials after the catastrophic floods at the Hill Country Youth Center, in Kerrville, Texas, on July 11, 2025. U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Parkland, noted on the floor of the House that hes the only former state emergency management chief elected to Congress, serving in that role under DeSantis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two months ago, he told the House the cuts already made to FEMA would mean smaller states would be faced with bankruptcy should they suffer a disaster. He urged reform, starting with taking it out from under the Department of Homeland Security. He said that FEMAs ability to coordinate with federal resources is the critical piece that would go missing if FEMA is dissolved. Florida and Texas might be able to get through one hurricane without cutting state health, transportation and education resources, but others wouldnt, Moskowitz said. They (states) don't own those resources. Most of them are DOD (Department of Defense) resources, he said, explaining what it takes to respond. Without FEMAs ability to do that (coordination), states that don't have those resources Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, (if) something comes in from the Gulf of America, it's going to be very tough for those states to respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anne Geggis is the insurance reporter at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at ageggis@gannett.com.Help support our journalism. Subscribe today This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida cliffhanger: Will FEMA continue to exist? Some 247 million years ago, a bizarre, six-inch-long reptile crept down a branch, its prehensile tail and feet clutching the bark like a monkey, and its narrow, birdlike face scanning its surroundings. On its back, an overlapping fan of stiff structures likely caught the light, vibrant with color. They looked very much like feathers, but were something entirely different as the reptile wasnt related to birds or dinosaurs, and it existed a hundred million years before the first dinosaur took wing. Researchers have long believed things like feathers and furcomplex structures which grow out of the skin, and can be used for insulation, sensing surroundings, visual displays and allowing flightare largely unique to the lineages that gave rise to birds and mammals. But now, a team of paleontologists have discovered a prehistoric reptile with a regal, plume-like crest that is unlike any previously-known integumentary appendage, things like horns, claws, and hair. The fossils show that evolutionary adaptations similar to feathers and fur were more widespread than previously thought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I'm stunned and flabbergasted, says Steve Brusatte, a paleontologist at the University of Edinburgh who was not involved in the study. It's been a long time since I've been so blown away by a new fossil discovery. The finding, which was published Wednesday in Nature, also helps solve a decades-old paleontological mystery. There was always a distinction made between feathered dinosaurs and scaly reptiles, says Stephan Spiekman, a paleontologist at the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart, Germany and an author on the paper. And thats too black and white of a story. A 'miraculous reptile' The specimens first came to light in May 1939, when private fossil collector Louis Grauvogel was prospecting quarries in the Triassic rocks of northeastern France. He found dozens of isolated structures he assumed to be fossilized fish fins, or insect wings, as well as the partial skeleton of a reptile. But when the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History acquired his collection in 2019, Spiekman says, a museum researcher noticed faint ribs at the base of one of the fossilized structures. Carefully preparing away the rock, they found the preserved torso, neck and skull with the two-inch crest projecting out of the upper back. The structures and skeletons belonged to the same animal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After studying the skeletal remains and over 80 specimens of isolated crests, the team chose the name Mirasaura grauvogeli, Grauvogels miraculous reptile. While the skeletons represent young animals, Spiekman says, the size of some of the isolated crests in the collection suggest adults could be well over a foot long. A model of Mirasaura grauvogeli Illustration by SMNS/Tobias Wilhelm, Naturkunde Museum Stuttgart The holotype of Mirasaura (State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, Germany) showing the bird-like skull and crest along the back Photograph by Stephan Spiekman, Naturkunde Museum Stuttgart His team identified Mirasaura as a member of a strange group of arboreal reptiles called drepanosaurs. Found in North America and Europe, drepanosaurs are sometimes compared to chameleons, Spiekman says. But they were much, much weirder: they had barrel-shaped bodies, humped shoulders, and large, forward-facing eyes on beaked, bird-like skulls. Many had opposable thumbs and monkey-like prehensile tails, with some species featuring a claw on the tail-tip. To me, the closest analogue is a pygmy anteater, Spiekman says. Reptile riddle solved Mirasaura also provides the key to solving a long-standing Triassic riddle, says Michael Buchwitz, a paleontologist at the Museum of Natural History Magdeburg, in Germany, who was not involved with the study. In 1970, a Russian paleontologist published a paper about Longisquama, a fragmentary reptile with a spray of long, feather-like structures from Kyrgyzstan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The discovery of Longisquama initially provided ammunition for researchers unhappy with the then-controversial theory that birds descended from dinosaurs. But as overwhelming evidence piled up showing the avian-dinosaur connectionincluding fossils showing that feathers and similar structures were widespread across dinosaurs and pterosaursnobody quite knew what to do with the enigmatic Longisquama, or where it belonged on the reptile family tree, Buchowitz says. Most elected to ignore it. Now, however, the discovery of Mirasaura has allowed the Stuttgart team to finally identify Longisquama, too, as a long-lost drepanosaur. The enigma is solved now, says Buchowitz. Remarkable convergent evolution The overlapping plumes of Mirasaura and Longisquamas strange crests do resemble feathers at first glance, Spiekman says, in that theyre most likely made out of keratin, a key structural protein that makes up everything from nails and scales to hair and feathers. They stick up vertically away from the body and theyre long. This would have felt like a rigid, stiff feather. The team also found preserved melanosomespigment-producing cellswithin the structures that looked more like those seen in bird plumage than reptile scales or mammalian hair, Spiekman says. But rather than the typical branching pattern of keratin filaments seen in true feathers, drepanosaur plumes seemingly formed in a single smooth sheet around their central ridge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we have here is a remarkable example of convergent evolution, maybe the most stunning one I've ever seen, says Brusatte. They were not bird mimics. It was birds that mimicked them. Since drepanosaurs belonged to a much earlier evolutionary offshoot of the reptile family than the branch that gave rise to modern lizards, crocodiles and birds, Spiekman says, it suggests that the genetic adaptations for making these integumentary appendages arose early on in the vertebrate evolutionary tree. It remains to be seen how widespread such feather-like crests were in the drepanosaur family, Spiekman says, and precisely how theyre formed. But the finding also opens the possibility that there are more feather-like structures to be found among other reptile families in the fossil record. For Spiekman, flamboyant climbers like Mirasaurawith their monkey tails, chameleon feet, bird-like heads and feather-like crestsare changing the picture of what a reptile is. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A Birmingham man was sentenced to 36 years in prison after he was convicted of gun and drug charges in February, according to U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona on Wednesday. A jury convicted Frederick Leonard Temple Jr., 35, of possession of a machine gun, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and possession of a machine gun in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. U.S. District Court Judge Madeline Haikala handed the sentence. Temple distributed fentanyl twice, according to evidence presented at trial. Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force members and Birmingham police officers executed a search warrant at Temples residence on January 26, 2022. Officers discovered drugs and firearms in a rear bedroom where an infant was found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bessemer 3-year-old dies after being left in hot car Police seized 14 firearms, one of which was equipped with a machine gun-conversion device known as a Glock switch. They also seized several high-capacity firearm magazines, fentanyl, methamphetamine, digital scales and drug paraphernalia. This sentence sends a clear message that violent, criminal conduct like Defendant Temples will not be tolerated, Escalona said in a statement. I commend our law enforcement partners and prosecutors for their unwavering commitment to ensuring Temple was brought to justice. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Explosives assisted the Shelby County Sheriffs Office and Birmingham Police Department in the investigation. Advertisement 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. A Black college student shown on video being punched and dragged from his car by Florida law officers during a traffic stop faces a long recovery from injuries that include a concussion and a broken tooth that pierced his lip and led to several stiches, his lawyers said Wednesday. At a news conference in Jacksonville, 22-year-old William McNeil Jr. spoke softly as he made a few brief comments with his family and civil rights attorneys by his side. That day I just really wanted to know why I was getting pulled over and why I needed to step out of the car," he said. "I knew I didn't do nothing wrong. I was really just scared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McNeil is a biology major who played in the marching band at Livingstone College, a historically Black Christian college in Salisbury, North Carolina, Livingstone President Anthony Davis said. The encounter with law enforcement happened in February, but the arrest didn't capture much attention until the video from McNeil's car-mounted camera went viral over the weekend. That's when the sheriff said he became aware of it and opened an internal investigation, which is ongoing. The sheriff said a separate probe by the State Attorney's Office cleared the officers of any criminal wrongdoing a finding fiercely criticized by McNeil's lawyers. Video from inside the car captures him being punched Footage of the violent arrest has sparked nationwide outrage, with civil rights lawyers accusing authorities of fabricating their arrest report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video filmed by McNeil's camera shows him sitting in the driver's seat, asking to speak to the Jacksonville officers' supervisor, when they broke his window, punched him in the face, pulled him from the vehicle and punched him again. He was then knocked to the ground by an officer who delivered six closed-fist punches to the hamstring of his right thigh, police reports show. Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday defended law enforcement officers and implied the video was posted to advance a narrative and generate attention on social media. Thats what happens in so many of these things," DeSantis said. "Theres a rush to judgment. Theres a, theres a desire to try to get views and clicks by creating division. DeSantis says he hasn't seen the video, but backs law enforcement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis said he hasn't reviewed the viral video but has every confidence in Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters, who has urged the public not to cast judgement based on the footage alone. If people get out of line, hes going to hold them accountable, DeSantis said. Body camera footage of the encounter shows McNeil had been repeatedly told to exit the vehicle. And, though he earlier had his car door open while talking with an officer, he later closed it and appeared to keep it locked for about three minutes before the officers forcibly removed him, the video shows. The vantage point of the body camera footage that was released makes it difficult to see the punches. The cellphone footage from the Feb. 19 arrest shows that seconds before being dragged outside, McNeil had his hands up and did not appear to be resisting as he asked, What is your reason? He had pulled over and had been accused of not having his headlights on, even though it was daytime, his lawyers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, civil rights lawyer Ben Crump said his client had every right to ask why he was being pulled over and to ask for a supervisor. Report that McNeil reached towards a knife is disputed A point of contention in the police report is a claim that McNeil reached toward an area of the car where deputies found a knife when they searched the vehicle after taking him into custody. The suspect was reaching for the floorboard of the vehicle where a large knife was sitting, Officer D. Bowers wrote in his report. Crump called that police report a fabrication, saying McNeil never reaches for anything. A second officer observed that McNeil kept his hands up as Bowers smashed the window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Ofc. Bowers opened the door, the subject refused to exit the vehicle, but kept his hands up, the second officer wrote. Sheriff says officers have been cleared of committing any crimes The State Attorneys Office determined that the officers did not violate any criminal laws, the sheriff said. No one from the State Attorney's Office ever interviewed McNeil, Crump said. Daniels called their investigation a whitewashing. But for that video, we would not be here, Daniels said. And we thank God Mr. McNeil had the courage to record. Asked about the criticism of the State Attorney's review, a spokesperson for the office said Wednesday that a memo to McNeils file will be finalized in the coming days that will serve as our comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after his arrest, McNeil pleaded guilty to charges of resisting an officer without violence and driving with a suspended license, Waters said. Civil rights attorneys call for accountability America, we're better than this, we're at a crossroads," Crump said. "We are a Democracy, we believe in the Constitution. We are not a police state where the police can do anything they want to citizens without any accountability. Crump said his client remained calm while the officers who are trained to deescalate tense situations were the ones escalating violence. He said the case harkened back to the Civil Rights movement, when Black people were often attacked when they tried to assert their rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What he exhibited was a 21st century Rosa Parks moment where an African American had the audacity to say I deserve equal justice under the law. I deserve to be treated like a human being with all the respect that a human being is entitled to. The sheriff has pushed back on some of the claims by Crump and lawyer Harry Daniels, saying the cellphone camera footage from inside the car does not comprehensively capture the circumstances surrounding the incident. Part of that stems from the distance and perspective of the recording cell phone camera, the sheriff said in a statement, adding that the video did not capture events that occurred before officers decided to arrest McNeil. Cameras can only capture what can be seen and heard, the sheriff added. So much context and depth are absent from recorded footage because a camera simply cannot capture what is known to the people depicted in it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the speakers at Wednesday's news conference said they hope the Florida case results in accountability so that what happened to McNeil doesn't happen to others. It's incumbent upon everyone to understand that this could have been us, this could have been me, this could have been you, civil rights lawyer Gerald Griggs said. ___ Associated Press writer Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida, contributed. ZAGREB, July 23 (Xinhua) -- A Qipao (cheongsam) exhibition from Shanghai, China, opened on Wednesday at the Zagreb Archaeological Museum, attracting over 100 attendees. Qi Qianjin, Chinese ambassador to Croatia, highlighted the Qipao's rich legacy of over a century in China, describing it as a symbol of the beauty, elegance, independence, and confidence of Chinese women. He praised the exhibition as "an excellent platform" for enhancing mutual understanding and cultural appreciation between China and Croatia. Qi also noted the long-standing cultural exchanges between the two countries, tracing back to the ancient Silk Road. He emphasized that bilateral ties have deepened in recent years through various initiatives such as cultural years, art festivals, exhibitions of cultural relics, and film weeks. "These dialogues between civilizations across time and space vividly reflect the spiritual connection between our peoples, and offer valuable opportunities to experience and understand different cultures." Ivan Radman, director of the Zagreb Archaeological Museum, emphasized that the exhibition marks the first major collaborative project following the signing of a bilateral cooperation agreement last year. He expressed confidence that the display would help more Croatians better understand Shanghai and Chinese culture. Lv Chengshuo, deputy director of the Shanghai History Museum, underscored the Qipao as a key emblem of Shanghai's urban identity and a distillation of Chinese aesthetics. "This exhibition not only traces the evolution of traditional Chinese attire, but also showcases the ingenuity of the people of Shanghai," he said. Jointly organized by the Shanghai History Museum and the Zagreb Archaeological Museum, the exhibition celebrates the 45th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Shanghai and Zagreb. Featuring 84 sets of Qipao, the exhibition chronicles the transformation of the Shanghai-style cheongsam and will run until Sept. 2. The Qipao, also known as the cheongsam, is a form-fitting dress traditionally made of silk or satin, characterized by its high mandarin collar and side slits, reflecting a unique blend of classical elegance and modern flair. WEST PALM BEACH Corey Smith wanted his daughter, Naila, to steer clear of everything having to do with becoming a lawyer since its an ever-changing career. He wanted her to study in the STEM field to ensure a career that would always be necessary. Kids always do the opposite of what we as parents tell them to do, said Corey Smith. His working in municipal government as an attorney himself allowed him to be open about his career at home, which sparked Nailas interest in it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She earned an internship with the Palm Beach County School District's legal office during her junior year of high school. It exposed her to so many different fields of law. It was there that she realized that a career following in her fathers footsteps was what she wanted for herself. Corey Smith felt an array of emotions when she had mentioned her plans to him: joy, confusion, even anger. But pride and lots of it won out July 19, as he sat with a beaming smile at Florida Power & Light's Manatee Lagoon complex and watched Naila receive a scholarship from the Palm Beach County Caucus of Black Elected Officials. E-bikes: Nonprofit offering free electric bike vouchers for West Palm residents, downtown workers An 18-year-old Palm Beach Lakes High School graduate, Naila Smith will attend Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, and have a double major in political science and journalism in the university's pre-law track. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My dad is also a lawyer, I've been aware of it since I was young but after my internship, I knew that one day I will work in politics just like him," said Naila Smith. The families of Naila Smith and 77 other students gathered as each student received $1,000 in scholarships from the caucus. Recipients had grade-point averages of at least 3.0 and had "demonstrated leadership, outstanding character, and dedication to community service," the caucus said. In the caucus' inaugural year, they were only able to present 27 students with scholarships and this year it is almost triple that amount, with the help from some of their sponsors including Florida Power & Light Company, Florida Crystals, Margaritaville at Sea and the Palm Beach County Sheriff's office. County Commissioner Bobby Powell, the group's president and a former state senator, emceed the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best pizza in Palm Beach County: Where to go to sample every style Commissioner Bobby Powell Jr. shakes hands with scholarship recipient I'm blown away by the number of students that we're able to give scholarships away to today. It's more than double what we were able to do last year, Powell said, a former state senator. Jonathan Ramirez, a scholarship recipient and senior at Palm Beach Lakes High School, shared the same sentiment. "It really is a great, great honor to be given the scholarship and be given this opportunity alongside so many of my peers." Ramirez's mom, Shaila, knew that there was no way Jonathan would not grow up to be a helping hand in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He started helping out in the community from such a young age but when he started working with Best Buddies, I could see that this was God's plan for him," said Shaila Ramirez, in Spanish. Powell and nine other Palm Beach County commissioners and mayors including state Sen. Mack Bernard, state Rep. Jervonte Edmonds and Port of Palm Beach Commissioner Jean Enright each read recipients' names as they or their families walked up to the podium to accept their awards and scholarship money. Francesca Abarca is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at fabarca@gannett.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Caucus of Black Elected Officials give scholarships to county students FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) UPDATE: A precautionary boil order has been lifted for 706 water customers located south of Fayetteville Executive Airport at Drake Field, officials said on July 25. Customers were notified of the change through automated phone calls and text messages, according to a Facebook post. The Arkansas Department of Health issued the order as a precaution following water main work at the airport. According to the department, water samples collected afterward were tested and confirmed to be uncontaminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington, Benton counties set to hold unique joint meeting to discuss growth strategies On July 24, the City of Fayetteville replaced a waterline at the Fayetteville Executive Airport, causing periodic service disruptions for 706 customers in Greenland, West Fork and the Mount Olive Water Association. A precautionary boil order was issued at midnight in accordance with Arkansas Department of Health policy. Water samples were tested locally to expedite the process and results were expected by Friday. During the order, residents were advised to boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking and to discard any ice made during the advisory period. Advertisement 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. Bomb squad technicians who responded to a Santa Monica townhome complex where a resident reported finding grenades X-rayed the explosives and told city police they believed the devices were inert, according to a new search warrant in the investigation into the explosion that killed three Los Angeles County Sheriff's detectives last week. The bomb squad retrieved two hand grenades left behind apparently by a previous tenant in an underground parking garage storage unit at the Bay Street complex on Thursday night and took them to the Biscailuz Center Training Academy. The next day, at least one of the grenades exploded as the technicians were handling them in the parking lot. The blast was the single deadliest incident for the department in more than 150 years, killing department veterans Dets. Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus and William Osborn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators with the sheriff's department's homicide bureau and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are still trying to determine exactly how the detonation happened and how the devices ended up inside the storage unit. It's unclear whether officials still believed the grenades were inert when they were handled on Friday. Read more: Investigation into blast that killed 3 deputies expands to second location in Marina del Rey A search warrant, issued on Friday and reviewed by The Times on Wednesday, authorized investigators to search the storage units inside the complex for incendiary devices, accelerants, surveillance footage, explosives and other hazardous materials. "At this point in the investigation, due to the fact the Arson and Explosives detectives that responded to 821 Bay Street, Santa Monica are deceased, coupled with the fact detectives do not know if the area was rendered safe ... Detectives Mezzano and Delia believe a search of the storage sheds in the parking structure of the townhome complex is necessary to render the area safe for the residents that live in and around the townhome complex," Sgt. Anthony Delia wrote in the affidavit in support of the search warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the affidavit, Santa Monica Police Officer Kyle Nichols told investigators that the sheriff's department arson detectives believed the hand grenades were inert when they responded to the scene, but took them "to be destroyed and rendered safe." Law enforcement sources told The Times this week that the technicians had cut into at least one of the grenades before it detonated. Authorities said it was too early in the investigation to determine whether the transportation or handling of the explosives was according to department protocol and emphasized that the inquiry could take weeks or months to complete. Read more: 3 L.A. County sheriffs deputies killed in explosion ID'd; investigators search Santa Monica apartment Officials searched a boat docked in Marina del Rey on Monday and storage lockers on Tuesday and Wednesday that law enforcement sources told The Times are tied to a person who previously served in the U.S. military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, authorities were seen carrying out suitcases, bins and hard-shelled storage cases as they rummaged through a storage unit behind an apartment building in the 4200 block of Marquesas Way in Marina del Rey. Officials have not revealed what, if anything, they've discovered during their searches of the vessel or storage units. 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. Hours after federal judges replaced Alina Habba as New Jerseys top federal prosecutor on Tuesday, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that she was firing their pick to replace her. Buried in a dispute over arcane powers of appointment is a constitutional and political showdown between a group of New Jersey district court judges, most of them nominated by Democratic presidents, and the Trump administration. Bondi said she was firing Desiree Leigh Grace from her job as first assistant U.S. attorney. The judges appointed Grace to replace Habba after Habbas 120-day interim post expires this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Habba] has been doing a great job in making NJ safe again, Bondi wrote on social media on Tuesday. Nonetheless, politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position, replacing Alina with the First Assistant. Accordingly, the First Assistant United States Attorney in New Jersey has just been removed. A DOJ official, granted anonymity to describe a personnel decision, confirmed that Grace had been fired entirely from the department. But the attorney generals move does not clear up whether Grace will become U.S. attorney after Habba leaves on Friday. Judges have the power to select an appointee from outside the department. Not everyone agrees that Bondi could fire Grace when she becomes the interim U.S. attorney. Habba, who previously served as President Donald Trumps personal attorney, was serving as interim U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An unusual process that played out this week gives district court judges a say over who fills an executive branch post because of a law that has been around for decades, with some interruption. Congress put it back on the books after accusations the Bush administration pushed out nine U.S. attorneys for political reasons. New Jersey district court judges voted not to let Habba continue in that role upon that 120-day interim term expiring, despite the presidents wishes, instead picking Grace. This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges especially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers, Bondi continued. Todd Blanche, a deputy attorney general who also served as personal attorney to Trump, accused the judges of colluding with the NJ Senators along the way. It wont work, he wrote on social media. Pursuant to the Presidents authority, we have removed that deputy, effective immediately. This backroom vote will not override the authority of the Chief Executive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States District Court for the District of New Jersey had no comment. Earlier on Tuesday, a White House spokesperson told POLITICO that the Trump Administration looks forward to [Habbas] final confirmation in the U.S. Senate and will work tirelessly to ensure the people of New Jersey are well represented. New Jerseys senators, Democrats Cory Booker and Andy Kim, both indicated that they would oppose Habbas nomination in the Senate. They took a more positive tone toward Graces appointment. Erica Orden, Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein contributed to this report. BOONE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A man in Boone has been arrested after being investigated for having and distributing child sexual abuse material, according to the Boone Police Department. On Tuesday, law enforcement investigated and arrested 41-year-old Tony Len Ford. He was charged with 10 counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and was given a $250,000 secured bond, officials said. The Boone Police Department, Watauga County Sheriffs Office and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are members of the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which investigates and prosecutes people involved in child abuse and exploitation of children involving the internet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fords next court date is scheduled for September 17. Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area >> Latest stories 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 Queen City News. A Boston man is facing charges in connection with beating up and stealing from his friend during a home invasion in April, the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office said Tuesday. Roxbury resident Juan Blanco, 66, has been charged with home invasion, assault and battery on a person over 60 with serious injury, assault and battery on a person over 60 and larceny from a building, the district attorneys office said in a press release. On April 9, Boston police responded to a report of a home invasion at a residence on Bowdoin Street in Dorchester around 1:30 p.m., the district attorneys office said. The victim a 68-year-old man was found with a swollen and bloody nose and lip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim told police that Blanco who he considered a friend unexpectedly knocked on his door sometime between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. that day, the district attorneys office said. When the victim opened the door, Blanco hit him in the face with the back of a knife, causing the victim to fall to the floor and lose consciousness. The victim said he called police after waking up dizzy and in a pool of blood, the district attorneys office said. He soon discovered that Blanco had stolen his Social Security Direct Express card, which had $1,000 on it and the PIN written on the back. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Blanco after the victim identified him in a photo array, the district attorneys office said. Blanco previously served time in prison and has faced a multitude of various assault and battery charges. This incident has an added dimension of sadness given that the victim told investigators he knew and was friends with the person who attacked him and stole his social security card, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said in the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blanco is being held without bail until his arraignment on the charges in Dorchester District Court, which is scheduled for Friday, the district attorneys office said. More local crime stories Read the original article on MassLive. The Boston Police Department is warning the public of a new email/text scam targeting Boston residents. Police say that messages claiming to be MassDOT are alerting recipients that they have overdue parking ticket fees. Boston police say that the messages are, in fact, not from MassDOT or the City of Boston. The Parking Clerk does not contact individuals by email or text about unpaid parking tickets, the Boston Police Department wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who want to learn more about Boston parking and how to pay/check any unpaid parking fees, visit the following link: https://www.boston.gov/departments/parking-clerk/how-pay-parking-ticket Boston police ask that if you or someone you know has been victimized by this type of crime, please report the incident to the Boston Police Department. 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 GARVIN COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) A woman from Boston, Massachusetts, was met with handcuffs after a normal traffic stop turned into a drug bust. Liyi Wu was pulled over near Kay Busey Pkwy and Main St., in Elmore City, on Friday for speeding. Deputy Chief Rob Davis from the Elmore City Police Department said hed planned to give Wu a warning, but noticed a strong odor coming from her car. Fatal crash in southwest Oklahoma City claims two lives Liyi Wu mugshot, Image Garvin County Sheriffs Office Area where Wu was pulled over. Image KFOR I asked her, you know, if she had anything in the vehicle, and she stated, no, no, I have my baby in the car, so no drugs, Deputy Chief Davis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Chief Davis said he took her word, as he saw a car seat in the back with a blanket over it and what looked like baby feet peeking out. As I was walking up to the back from the vehicle, I noticed three bags laying down on the backseat of her SUV, Deputy Chief Davis added. Elmore City Authorities searched Wus vehicle and discovered the three gallon-sized bags filled with marijuana that had been vacuum sealed. Deputy Chief Davis also said there was no baby in the back seat, like Wu claimed. Officers say Wu was traveling towards Jenks, Oklahoma, to possibly meet up with someone at a local Walmart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said that often, people come to smaller rural towns to avoid major highways and the task force. With that being said, the Garvin County area has seen an uptick in illegal drug trafficking, Deputy Chief Davis said. Its getting so out of hand that we need to have a team that focuses just on drugs. However, Deputy Chief Davis said their police department is doing everything they can to protect the Garvin County citizens and children, keeping drugs off the streets. Be rest assured, Elmore City is not going to allow that if you drive to our town, he said. Wu has already bonded out of the Garvin County jail. Shes facing Bribery, Trafficking a Controlled Dangerous Substance, and speeding charges. Advertisement 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. ISTANBUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Russian and Ukrainian delegations held a third round of peace talks here on Wednesday evening at the Ciragan Palace, during which the two sides agreed on another prisoner exchange. Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov led the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, respectively. After the talks, Medinsky told reporters that Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,200 prisoners of war each. Russia has returned the bodies of 7,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers and is ready to return 3,000 more, he said. He also said that the Russian side proposed establishing three online working groups with Ukraine to address political, humanitarian, and military issues. A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not being considered until certain processes are completed, he added. Following the talks, Zelensky wrote on social media platform X that the ninth stage of prisoner exchange took place "today," which involved more than 1,000 people from the Ukrainian side, including those "seriously ill and severely wounded." "It is important that the exchanges are ongoing," he wrote. In his opening remarks to the talks, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged the two delegations to engage in result-oriented negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ultimately ending the war. "Our goal is to end this bloody war, which has come at a heavy cost, as soon as possible," Fidan said. While the previous two rounds of talks in Istanbul -- held on May 16 and June 2 -- led to the exchange of thousands of war prisoners and the bodies of fallen soldiers, they produced little progress toward a ceasefire. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A pay dispute resulting in Dr. Pascal Mubenga stepping down as superintendent of Durham Public Schools in North Carolina was a focus of questions during a press conference Tuesday following the announcement that he will be the new leader of Buffalo Public Schools. Dr. Mubenga resigned from Durham Public Schools in February 2024 after some district employees received pay that was not properly budgeted for. The issue resulted in protests and days of schools being forced to close to students due to staff callouts. An independent review found in February 2023, the Durham Public Schools finance officer knew certain pay raises were several million dollars over budget, but did not communicate that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The review also found Dr. Mubenga first became aware of a problem that November, and told the HIL consultants to look into the matter. The full board was informed on January 11, two months later. Dr. Mubengas time at Durham Public Schools was something he addressed directly after his appointment was announced here in Buffalo, saying that hes learned from his mistake. When it goes wrong, I take responsibility for it, Dr. Mubenga said. For that reason, I was able to learn from that particular mistake and, to answer your specific questions, Im not expecting that to happen here because Ive learned my lessons. Despite the dispute, during his time in Durham, Dr. Mubenga was able to boost ratings of several suffering schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I got there, there were 56 schools, and 10 of the schools, they were labeled F schools, Dr. Mubenga said. In North Carolina, they go A to F. Just in a matter of a year, we got it to one F school, thats the amazing work that we did. Prior to his time in Durham, Dr. Mubenga served as a teacher, principal, and eventually Superintendent of Franklin County Schools where he used his experience and success as a teacher and administrator to raise graduation rates. Always wear the hat of a teacher, Dr. Mubenga said to a round of applause. My personality when I say Im a teacher, Im a servant, I carry that same philosophy to the superintendency seat and thats why I was successful. WIVB News 4 reached out to Durham Public Schools whose superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis congratulated Dr. Mubenga on the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am deeply grateful to Dr. Mubenga for his leadership and the contributions he made to elevate teaching and learning in Durham, Dr. Lewis said. Latest Local News Rob Petree is an anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. See more of his work 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 News 4 Buffalo. Brazil has said that it will move to intervene in a case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) alleging that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, as non-Western countries step up calls for greater pressure. The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday that it was in the final stages of submitting a formal intervention to the ICJ regarding the case, originally brought by South Africa. The international community cannot remain inactive in the face of ongoing atrocities, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Brazil believes there is no longer room for moral ambiguity or political omission. Impunity undermines international legality and undermines the credibility of the multilateral system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazils planned intervention in the case, earlier reported by the Brazilian paper Folha de S Paulo, comes as Israeli abuses in Gaza, including harsh restrictions on aid that have brought the Gaza Strip to the brink of mass famine, are under growing scrutiny. The Brazilian government announces that it is in the final stages of submitting a formal intervention in the ongoing case at the International Court of Justice, brought by South Africa under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, the statement said. The Brazilian government expresses deep indignation at the recurring episodes of violence against the civilian population in the State of Palestine, not limited to the Gaza Strip but extending to the West Bank. Increasingly vocal The South American nation said that civilians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank have been subjected to recurring episodes of violence and serious rights violations, including the shameless use of starvation as a weapon of war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several other countries, including Spain, Turkiye and the Republic of Ireland, have also asked to intervene in the case, urging the ICJ to state that Israel is in violation of its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention. Brazil has itself become increasingly vocal in its criticism of Israel, with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva denouncing Israels actions in Gaza as a genocide at a BRICS meeting earlier this month. The Foreign Ministry statement notes that the decision to intervene in the case is based on the plausibility that the rights of Palestinians to protection against acts of genocide are being irreversibly impaired. The Israeli Embassy in Brasilia said the Brazilian statement used harsh words that do not fully portray the reality of what is currently happening in Gaza, while Brazil had also completely ignored the role of Hamas. Brazils National Israeli association CONIB said in a statement in response to Wednesdays decision: The breaking of Brazils longstanding friendship and partnership with Israel is a misguided move that proves the extremism of our foreign policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ICJ has yet to rule on whether Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, but issued an order in January 2024, demanding that Israel take action to prevent genocide in the Strip through acts such as allowing greater access to humanitarian aid. However, pressure has had little impact, and the United States and other Western allies have remained firmly supportive of Israel despite a growing chorus of experts and rights groups warning of systematic rights abuses in Gaza. Israel initiated a full blockade in March that barred all aid from Gaza for several months, before allowing a limited resumption of assistance through the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a group closely tied to Israel and the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians waiting for aid at GHF distribution sites since May, as reports of Palestinians dying of starvation continue to mount. United Nations officials have denounced the sites as death traps, and said they will not cooperate with the GHF, which supplanted existing international aid groups that Israel has largely barred from operating in Gaza. We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it provide your body with essential nutrients, but it also kickstarts your metabolism and provides much-needed sustenance until lunch. Whether it's jam on toast, a stack of easy, three-ingredient pancakes, or a protein-packed smoothie bowl, the small culinary choices you make in the mornings can set the tone for the entire day. Unfortunately, even the most comforting breakfast staples can come with unexpected risks. One of the main causes of breakfast food recalls is contamination with harmful bacteria such as salmonella or listeria. Several breakfast items have also been pulled from grocery store shelves after consumers reported finding foreign matter such as metal or plastic fragments in their food. Other breakfast products may be recalled due to undeclared allergens, whether stemming from mislabeling or accidental cross-contamination during the manufacturing process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ready to find out what breakfast items triggered some of the biggest recalls in U.S. history? Here are some of the most shocking breakfast product recalls to hit the supermarkets! Read more: 14 Foods You Should Never Freeze August Egg Company Recalls Eggs Due To Potential Presence Of Salmonella (2025) Hand picking up single egg out of a carton - Jackyenjoyphotography/Getty Images Whether scrambled, fried, boiled, or poached, eggs are a delicious and convenient addition to any breakfast ritual. They are also packed with protein, vitamins, and choline, an essential nutrient that supports brain function. However, all these health benefits mean little if the eggs you are consuming pose the risk of harmful bacteria. Unfortunately, this was precisely the problem when August Egg Company recalled its eggs in June 2025. The alert was raised after August Egg Company's eggs were linked to a salmonella outbreak, which affected over 100 people and led to at least one death. All in all, the company pulled 1.7 million dozen brown cage-free and certified organic eggs from supermarket refrigerators. The eggs had been sold under a range of brand names, including O Organics, Nulaid, Marketside, Simple Truth, and Sunnyside. The recalled product was available at Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs in California and Nevada. The eggs were also shipped to Walmart stores in California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it's unclear how the salmonella bacteria ended up in the eggs, August Egg Company ceased selling fresh eggs immediately after discovering the possible link between the pathogen and its products. Instead, the company started sending its eggs to an egg-breaking facility where they were pasteurized to kill any pathogens. Smith Packing Recalls Breakfast Sausages Due To Excessive Sodium Nitrate (2025) As-Salaam Beef Breakfast Sausage - FSIS Founded in 1911, Smith Packing is the brand name behind a range of meat products, such as sliced meats, chops, ground beef, meatballs, bacon, and sausages. In 2025, the company's products became the focus of an investigation after consumers complained about their appearance and taste. As it turned out, the issue stemmed from overly high levels of sodium nitrate. The affected products included As-Salaam Beef Breakfast Sausage, as well as other meat items, including Smith Packing Beef Knockwurst, Honest John HJ Polish Sausage, and Beefland USA Regular Beef Sausage. While sodium nitrate is commonly added to cured meats, excessive amounts of the preservative can lead to safety concerns. Individuals who ingest too much sodium nitrate can experience nausea and dizziness, as well as more severe reactions. In total, Smith Packing recalled nearly 19,000 pounds of ready-to-eat breakfast sausages and other meat and poultry products manufactured between February 19, 2025, and April 24, 2025. Hearthside Food Solutions Recalls Ready-To-Eat Breakfast Sandwiches Due To Undisclosed Allergen (2025) Lettieri's Food to Go Bacon, Egg & Cheese French Toast Breakfast Sandwich - Hearthside Food Solutions Ready-to-eat, frozen breakfast sandwiches are the ultimate convenience, offering a filling and satisfying meal with minimal preparation. While that may be true, it's crucial that consumers especially those with food allergies or sensitivities can trust the labeling on such products. Unfortunately, in 2025, a labeling oversight by Hearthside Food Solutions resulted in the distribution of frozen breakfast sandwiches that contained undeclared sesame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recognized by the FDA as one of the nine major food allergens alongside milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans sesame can cause severe reactions and even death in sensitive individuals. As such, the seed must be clearly listed in the ingredient section of product labels. In this instance, sesame was not declared on the packaging of two specific products: Lettieri's Food to Go Sausage, Egg & Cheese French Toast Breakfast Sandwich and Lettieri's Food to Go Bacon, Egg & Cheese French Toast Breakfast Sandwich. In total, approximately 500,000 pounds of the breakfast sandwiches were recalled from Army & Air Force Exchange Services sites across the U.S. Riverside Natural Foods Recalls Granola Bars Due To Fears Of Metal Contamination (2024) MadeGood Granola Bar - Riverside Natural Foods Made from a mixture of rolled oats, sweeteners like honey or corn syrup, and other ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, granola bars have become a popular addition to morning routines. In 2024, the breakfast snack was thrust into the spotlight after Riverside Natural Foods issued a recall involving over 2.4 million cases of its MadeGood Granola Bars due to concerns about metal contamination. The affected products encompassed a range of granola bar flavors, including chocolate chip, mixed berry, strawberry, cookies and creme, and chocolate banana. The breakfast products were manufactured between January and November 2024 and shipped across the U.S., as well as Canada and other international markets. The product alert was raised after several consumers complained about finding pieces of metal in their granola bars. Luckily, no injuries were reported at the time. The FDA gave the Riverside Natural Foods granola bar recall a Class II designation, indicating that it was moderately serious. A Class II recall pertains to "a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote." TreeHouse Foods Recalls Waffles And Pancakes Due To Listeria Risk (2024) Stack of pancakes on white plate topped with berries - Esin Deniz/Shutterstock In 2024, TreeHouse Foods announced a recall of approximately 200 different waffle and pancake products under a range of brand names due to possible contamination with listeria. Some of the brand names included in the recall were Best Choice, Always Save, Breakfast Best, Food Lion, Full Circle, Giant Eagle, and Great Value though this represents only a fraction of the affected brands. The Belgian-style waffles, frozen toaster waffles, and pancakes were all produced at the same plant and shipped across the U.S. and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Listeria is a foodborne pathogen that may cause unpleasant symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and headache. The bacteria can be especially dangerous for the elderly, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems, potentially leading to hospitalization and even death. The pathogen also poses risks during pregnancy, as it can cause miscarriages and stillbirths. The Quaker Oats Company Recalls Various Breakfast Items Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination (2023 And 2024) Quaker Big Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip - The Quaker Oats Company One of America's oldest and most iconic oat and breakfast product manufacturers, the Quaker Oats Company evolved from the German Mills American Cereal Company, which was founded in 1850. The American Cereal Company changed its name to The Quaker Oats Company in 1901. Unfortunately, even well-established companies sometimes make mistakes, as demonstrated by Quaker's 2023 and 2024 food safety alert. The Quaker recall began in December 2023, when the company announced that it was recalling its granola bars and granola cereals over fears of possible salmonella contamination. The following month, in January 2024, the recall was widened to include additional cereal and granola bars, cereals, and snack boxes. The breakfast products were distributed across the U.S., as well as Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan. It's unclear how the pathogen made its way into the products, but the recall was a significant one, given the number of affected products and their wide distribution. Mondelez Global Recalls belVita Breakfast Sandwiches Due To Undeclared Peanuts (2023) belVita Breakfast Sandwich, Dark Chocolate Creme - Mondelez Global Undeclared allergens are one of the biggest reasons for food recalls. The problem typically stems from labeling mistakes or cross-contamination during processing. In 2023, Mondelez Global pulled two types of breakfast sandwiches from supermarket shelves due to possible cross-contamination, after it was discovered that they were produced using equipment that also handled peanuts. The issue came to light during an internal inspection conducted as part of the company's food safety protocol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affected products were the belVita Breakfast Sandwich (Dark Chocolate Creme) and the belVita Breakfast Sandwich (Cinnamon Brown Sugar with Vanilla Creme). The products were sold in grocery stores throughout the U.S. At the time of the recall, three cases of allergic reactions were supposedly linked to the tainted breakfast sandwiches. Peanut allergies can be debilitating, with common symptoms including hives, swelling, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. In more serious cases, the allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can cause chest pain, rapid pulse, dizziness, and difficulty swallowing and breathing. J.M. Smucker Recalls Jif Peanut Butter Following Outbreak Of Salmonella (2022) Jar of Jif Peanut Butter - J.M. Smucker Whether spread on toast, stirred into oatmeal or yogurt, or added to smoothies, peanut butter pairs well with other breakfast staples. Unfortunately, in 2022, the versatile ingredient came under scrutiny after it was linked to an outbreak of salmonella. In total, at least 21 people became sick after eating Jif Peanut Butter or products that contained the ingredient, four of whom were hospitalized. The tainted spread was manufactured at J.M. Smucker's facility in Lexington, Kentucky. Since Jif Peanut Butter was used as a base for various processed foods, the recall spread rapidly to cover a broad range of products. These included candies, protein power snacks, and baked items. As for J.M. Smucker, the company had to withdraw almost 50 of its products from the market, lowering its projected earnings per share for the fiscal year 2023 from $8.91 to between $7.85 and $8.25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over a decade before the 2022 incident, J.M. Smucker recalled its Jif Peanut Butter for precisely the same reason. In 2011, the company issued a recall of its Smucker's Natural Peanut Butter Chunky due to fears over potential salmonella contamination. Let's hope that J.M. Smucker has finally learned from its mistakes. Blendtopia Recalls Smoothie Kits Due To Possible Listeria Contamination (2020) Blendtopia Detox smoothie kit - Blendtopia Over the recent years, smoothies have become a popular breakfast choice due to their convenience, versatility, and health benefits. To make mornings even easier, some companies have come up with smoothie kits frozen, pre-portioned packs of ingredients ready to be tossed into a blender. In 2020, Blendtopia recalled a range of its smoothie kits after a notification from an ingredient supplier about potential listeria contamination. It's unclear what ingredient was affected, but the recall included several Blendtopia smoothie kits, including "Glow," "Detox," "Energy," "Immunity," and "Strength." As a result of the potential risk, Blendtopia recalled more than 29,000 cases of the products. The smoothie kits were distributed to retailers throughout the U.S. and were also sold online. No reports of adverse health effects were linked to the smoothies at the time, and the company recalled the items as a preventative measure. Kellogg Company Recalls Honey Smacks Cereal Due To Salmonella Concerns (2018) Kellogg's Honey Smacks Cereal - Kellogg Company Founded in 1906 as the Battle Creek Toasted Corn Flake Company after its founder W.K. Kellogg developed flaked cereal, Kellogg's got its current name in 1922. Over the decades, the company expanded its line of products to include other cereals, snacks, and convenience items. Despite its long track record and wide range of breakfast offerings, Kellogg's hasn't been immune to food safety issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2018, the company announced a recall of the Kellogg's Honey Smacks cereal after the breakfast product was linked to a salmonella outbreak. Kellogg's Honey Smacks were shipped to stores throughout the U.S., as well as Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, the Caribbean, Guam, Tahiti, and Saipan. In total, at least 135 consumers in the U.S. were sickened after eating the cereal, with at least 34 individuals ending up hospitalized. While the cereal bore the Kellogg's brand name, it was actually produced by a third-party Kerry. In 2023, five years after the salmonella outbreak, the company admitted to producing cereal in unsanitary conditions at its former Gridley plant in Illinois, and was ordered to pay $19.2 million in fines. Green Chile Food Company Recalls Frozen Breakfast Burritos Due To Possible Presence Of Listeria (2017) Green Chile Food Company burritos - Green Chile Food Company Billing itself as "one of the fastest growing Southwest cuisine brands," Green Chile Food Company has been around since 2014. The company specializes in "bold" and flavor-filled Southwest-style burritos. In 2017, Green Chile Food Company came under scrutiny after a routine inspection of its facilities by FSIS found listeria in one of its beef and potato burritos. In total, the recall involved approximately 15 different Green Chile burrito products, including a range of fillings like egg and sausage, egg and bacon, beef and bean, steak and jalapeno, and bean and cheese. The burritos were sold frozen and refrigerated in grocery stores in California, Illinois, Oregon, and South Dakota. They were also served hot in convenience stores and vending machines. Luckily, no illnesses were linked to the burritos at the time of the recall. The food alert came shortly before the Green Chile Food Company was scheduled to relocate to a new manufacturing location with a higher production capacity and better infrastructure. General Mills Recalls Cheerios Cereal Due To Undeclared Wheat (2015) Honey Nut Cheerios - General Mills The food giant behind popular brands like Betty Crocker, Yoplait, and Gold Medal, General Mills is one of the biggest food manufacturers in the world. However, size and reputation don't necessarily make a company immune to blunder. In 2015, General Mills announced a recall of Cheerios and Honey Nut Cheerios after the gluten-free products were found to contain wheat. The cereal was produced at a plant in Lodi, California, where wheat flour was accidentally used in equipment reserved for processing gluten-free oat flour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This type of mistake is particularly troubling because it poses a risk to individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, who depend on accurate labeling to protect their health. To mitigate the health risks, General Mills pulled 1.8 million boxes of the cereal from supermarket shelves. The FDA gave the Cheerios recall a Class I designation, indicating that it could lead to serious health risks or even death, if consumed by individuals allergic to wheat. Quality Egg Recalls Eggs After A Salmonella Outbreak (2010) Carton of eggs with one cracked open - sergey kolesnikov/Shutterstock Egg recalls are not uncommon. However, the Quality Egg recall of 2010 was one of the largest ever to hit the U.S. In fact, the company ended up withdrawing a staggering 550 million eggs from the market after they were linked to nearly 2,000 salmonella cases throughout the country, with estimates suggesting up to 60,000 unreported cases. This widespread scope of contamination isn't surprising since the eggs were distributed in Arkansas, California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. The eggs were sourced from two egg production facilities in Iowa Wright Country Egg and Hillandale Farms. Both facilities were owned by DeCoster Egg Farms. After conducting testing at the facilities, the FDA discovered traces of salmonella on the walkways, factory equipment, as well as in the chicken feed and manure. The FDA Commissioner, Margaret Hamburg, told CNN at the time: "There's no question these farms involved in the recall were not operating with the standards of practice we consider responsible." In 2014, Quality Egg executives, Austin "Jack" DeCoster and his son Peter DeCoster, pleaded guilty to several charges, including distributing contaminated eggs, falsifying expiration dates, and bribery. Quality Egg received a $6.79 million fine and three years of probation, while Jack and Peter DeCoster received threemonth prison sentences and $100,000 fines each. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout. French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron have filed a defamation lawsuit in Delaware against right-wing commentator Candace Owens, alleging that she orchestrated a campaign of global humiliation by falsely claiming Brigitte, 72, is a transgender woman and that the French president, 47, is part of a CIA mind control experiment. The 218-page complaint, filed Wednesday in Delaware Superior Court, accuses Owens of using her social media platforms and podcast to spread knowingly false, transphobic conspiracy theories for profit. The Macrons are seeking compensatory and punitive damages and have requested a jury trial, according to Reuters. The lawsuit centers on Owens eight-part YouTube series Becoming Brigitte, which has garnered more than 2.3 million views, and includes repeated assertions that Brigitte Macron was assigned male at birth under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, her actual brothers name. Owens also claimed the Macrons are blood relatives and described Emmanuel Macron as the result of a CIA human experimentation program, a reference to the debunked MKUltra project, according to The Financial Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications, the lawsuit states. The complaint describes Owenss conduct as invasive, dehumanizing, and deeply unjust. The lawsuit notes that Owens ignored multiple cease-and-desist letters and continued amplifying the claims. Owens has dissected their appearance, their marriage, their friends, their family, and their personal history twisting it all into a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade, the Macrons wrote in their filing. Faced with this relentless and unjustified smear campaign, the Macrons are left with no choice but to seek relief through this Court to set the record straight, prevent further harm, and hold Defendants accountable for their conduct, the lawsuit states. Attorney Thomas Clare, representing the couple, told FT that they are prepared to travel to Delaware to testify. They believe its important to stand up for themselves, he said. Owens has had multiple opportunities to do the right thing and in response she has only mocked them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Owens, who has a long history of spreading misinformation about transgender people and LGBTQ+ issues, told the publication she would respond on her podcast Wednesday. It is not Brigitte Macrons first legal battle over false transphobic claims. In September, a French court awarded her nearly $9,000 in damages after conspiracy theorists falsely claimed she was her brother and had transitioned. Although she initially won in court, the decision was later overturned on appeal. This article originally appeared on Advocate: French President Macron sues Candace Owens for defamation over claims his wife is transgender RELATED BRECKSVILLE, Ohio (WJW) A suburban Cleveland woman, who was one of the victims terrorized by notorious stalker Robert Hocevar, shared her story with FOX 8 News. It was scary because I was lying in bed many nights, wondering if this is the night that this escalates and he does something physical, the longtime nurse said. She said a relative recommended in 2022 that she hire Hocevar and his company, Elite Technology, to install a security system at her home in Brecksville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision to hire the man who called himself Bob the alarm guy would lead to two years of terror. She told us it began with an uncomfortable feeling that she initially dismissed. When he was talking to me after it was installed, I had a moment where I felt uncomfortable because he was very close to me. I remember taking some steps backwards, she said. Report: Local football star Jeremiah Kellys cause of death revealed in autopsy The mother of three children would later tell Brecksville police that she began receiving obscene phone calls in the middle of the night, during which the caller referred to her by name, and then came text messages with graphic images and videos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not knowing who it was at all and having no clue and, you know, initially I thought it was somebody just playing a joke on me, but then as it started to get worse and worse, thats when I decided to go to the police, she said. Detectives would later discover that Hocevar was using a series of burner phones and altering his voice to conceal his identity, while stalking and terrorizing at least seven women who had hired him to install camera and alarm systems. Investigators said some of the victims were being watched by Hocevar on cameras he was able to access from his truck and home. The Brecksville victim said perhaps the most terrifying part of her ordeal came when her burglar alarm was remotely activated by Hocevar three different times in the middle of the night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was terrifying to think that it went that far and all I had him do was install an alarm system in my home, she said. After two years of living in fear, the victim said she decided to take matters into her own hands by directly communicating with the stalker, in the hope it would help her identify the man. I would text and he would text me and he started to give more clues of who he was, she said. Angered that the stalker had invaded her privacy while her father was dying, the victim did her own detective work and eventually Hocevar made a mistake in a phone call that she recorded. Video: Crowds take over Cleveland streets, blocking RTA bus over July 4 weekend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So the last call I got from him, he didnt disguise his voice and I somewhat recognized it, but then I had a family member listen to it after I kind of figured out it was him and when she heard his voice, she said, without a doubt, thats him, she said. She was watching FOX 8 News just after she realized Hocevar was the mysterious stalker. She learned that Hocevar had been arrested by Westlake police for stalking and harassing two of his female customers on the west side and had a long criminal history. I felt like, how is this man in peoples homes selling alarm systems when hes been harassing, stalking? He also had an attempted murder charge. I mean, its terrifying to think I had this man in my home, she said. Based on evidence gathered by police and information provided by the Brecksville nurse and six other victims, 57-year-old Hocevar pleaded guilty in June to charges that include stalking, telecommunications harassment, unauthorized use of computers and possession of criminal tools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 8, he was sentenced to 22 years in prison. He has done this behavior over and over again. He has served time before and none of it stuck but now he got what he deserved, the Brecksville victim said. Investigators suspect that Hocevar spied on many more women, but they focused on cases where the evidence against him was overwhelming and could not be disputed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The UN has opened the door to Britain being sued over its historic contribution to climate change. In a significant legal opinion, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said failure by countries to meet their climate obligations could, in specific cases, allow other states affected by climate change to sue them. It also cleared the way for lawsuits over historic emissions, which could leave the UK, the birthplace of the industrial revolution, at risk of legal action from other nations. The pollution caused as Britain pioneered the industrial revolution in places like Bradford could make it liable for damages, as the court agreed to include historic emissions - duncan1890/Digital Vision Vectors The advisory opinion issued on Wednesday in The Hague is a way of clarifying specific questions of international law, and is not legally binding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it carries legal weight and moral authority and is expected to be influential on the future of environmental litigation. The UK implemented an ICJ advisory opinion when it agreed to give the Chagos Islands to Mauritius last year in a deal in which Lord Hermer, the Attorney General, played an influential role. The new opinion will raise fears that Lord Hermer would back any attempt by a foreign country to use the opinion to sue Britain. Hermer has demonstrated he does not bat for Britain, said Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK. The Tories and Reform both rejected the ruling and said they would not pay any damages if they were in government. Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, accused the ICJ of jumping on a bandwagon based on ideological obsessions - Peter Nicholls/Getty Images Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said: The ICJ has lost its core purpose and is now joining political campaigns and bandwagons based upon ideological obsessions on issues such as reparations and destroying the sovereign rights of national governments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Labour Government is equally ideologically obsessed with this nonsense. Activist-led court rulings like this should never be treated as binding. This is the process of lawfare that led to the Chagos surrender and must not be replicated on this issue. We challenge Labour to put Britains interest first and make clear they do not intend to act on this ridiculous advisory ruling. Mr Tice said: Under no circumstances would a Reform government pay any ludicrous climate reparations. Nor will we not be beholden to any foreign court. This is another non-binding advisory judgment by the ICJ, who absurdly said we should give up the Chagos. They just hate us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was put forward by a group of Pacific island law students. Ultimately, 132 nations supported it in the ICJ. The opinion ran to 133 pages and took two hours to read out. Ralph Regenvanu, the climate change minister of threatened Vanuatu, addressed supporters outside the court hearing on Wednesday - John Thys/AFP via Getty Images The opinion by the ICJ, also known as the World Court, was welcomed by environmental groups and by those living in islands at risk from rising sea levels and extreme temperature caused by climate change. Vanuatu is the island most at risk from climate change. Ralph Regenvanu, its minister of climate change adaptation, said Vanuatu would take the ICJ ruling to the UN General Assembly and pursue a resolution that will support implementation of this decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said The Global South is bearing the brunt of a crisis it did not create. Families are losing their homes, entire cultures are at risk of disappearing, and lives are being shattered by man-made climate disasters. The nations most responsible for emissions should be held accountable for any violations of legal obligations and they must also step up and lead in providing resources and support to aid those most affected. Legal experts said the judgment was a victory for small island and low-lying states that had asked the court to clarify states responsibilities in 2019. Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, a Dutch lawyer who is representing Vanuatu, talks to journalists after the ICJ backed its case - John Thys/AFP via Getty Images Such countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change and have been frustrated by the lack of progress in tackling the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pacific islands, for example, are at the forefront of the risks of climate change, but are responsible for less than 1 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions. UN negotiations over how to curb global warming have often been stymied over how to balance the obligations of richer developed countries that polluted heavily with poorer nations being asked to cut their emissions. Developed countries, including Britain, argued that existing climate agreements like the 2015 Paris Agreement were enough and no further obligations should be imposed. On Wednesday, Judge Yuji Iwasawa, the president of the ICJ, rejected that argument. He said broader international law applied and countries not signed up to the Paris Agreement or which, like the US, want to leave it must still protect the environment Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said developing nations have a right to seek compensation for the impacts of climate change, for example an extreme weather event destroying buildings and infrastructure. The amount of damages that a country could pay if a claim was successful is not clear. 2.8tn cost of climate change in 20 years The science journal Nature has previously published analysis estimating that climate change caused $2.8tn of losses between 2000 and 2019. But Judge Iwasawa warned it would be difficult to prove which countries were responsible for which part of climate change. The Foreign Office said the judgment was non-binding and there was no basis for the UK to pay reparations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman said: Tackling climate change is and will remain an urgent UK and global priority. Our position remains that this is best achieved through international commitment to the UNs existing climate treaties and mechanisms. It will take time to look at this detailed, non-binding, advisory opinion before commenting in detail. We will continue to collaborate closely to create the conditions for greater ambition and action, including with Brazil as it prepares to host COP30, and will tackle the climate crisis in a way that makes the British people better off. 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. Every now and then you realise a stout oak you loved has been covered by ropes of ivy to the point of oblivion, which feels like an apt metaphor for the burgeoning chains of tourist shops smothering our great cities with their lucrative but charmless tat. Edinburghs Royal Mile is now home to 72 gift shops, alongside 42 cafes and restaurants, 13 bars and three kilt specialists. You might as well rename it The Wee Jimmy Krankie Theme Park and abandon all claims to majesty. Londons Oxford Street is defaced by American-themed candy stores (estimates range between 20-30 at any given time) spawning a host of investigations over high prices, business tax evasion and counterfeit goods, as they pop up, vanish and reappear with renewed vigour like Japanese Knotweed. Which begs the question why arent we all out on the streets, like the people of Barcelona, Palma and Lisbon, demanding change? Ive been on holiday in Greece, where a crazy influx of visitors is bringing tensions to a head. I apologise to taverna waiters for being part of the contagion, explaining that I feel the same every summer in my hometown of Cambridge, now fielding 8.1 million visitors a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The citys medieval splendour feels blighted by cruddy stores selling the same Cambridge University sweatshirts you see hanging in the West End. Kings Parade is rendered bland by its Costa and Fudge Kitchen, while Indelibly Cambridge and the Kings Parade Vape Store are intolerably indistinctive. Im gaining notoriety as the indisputably crazy woman who yells watch out at grown tourists while pedalling furiously towards their soft, stationary I heart Cambridge hoodies. How many Cambridge teddies, totes and T-shirts do milling visitors need? Meanwhile glorious independent boutiques like Ian Stevens Leather Goods, the best place in the world for bespoke belts, are priced out of existence. Stevens departed Magdalene Street for Norfolk last summer taking the heady elixir of tanned hide, history and craftsmanship with him. Despite the city attracting 8.1 million visitors a year, its Labour-run council is constantly fretting about how it can make Cambridge more visitor friendly, as if arguably the most ravishing architecture in Christendom, along with world-class museums, galleries and the gorgeous Cam rammed with punts, is not enough. Theyre steaming ahead with a 75 million civic quarter project to redevelop and modernise the towns Market Square, Guildhall and Cornmarket. The project involves stripping out the centres historic cobbles to enhance access and endless sustainability goals, but in practice means the bustling stalls and wide range of wares (fruit, veg, flowers, cheese, bike repairs and second-hand books) will be reduced and blandly revamped for people who arent residents. Meanwhile, the real environmental outrage the pollution of the River Cam by sewage, leading to truly shocking E. coli test results remains unfixed. My younger son and all his friends have been sick as dogs after swimming. And what about the looming, long-term domestic water crisis across the region? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But who cares when you can rent out shop outlets to vendors of Chinese-made mementoes and keep our cities in lookalike mode with their Starbucks, Sweaty Bettys and Five Guys. I was in Bath earlier this year and I swear for a nanosecond I thought I was back in Cambridge even the constant weekend hen parties felt the same. Its time for vociferous citizen action demanding laws like those in Paris, which preserve and curate the citys small, independent shops and businesses for the joy of locals. Vive la revolution! Save our inhospitable cobbles! 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 third round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine is held in Istanbul, Turkiye, on July 23, 2025. Russian and Ukrainian delegations held a third round of peace talks here on Wednesday, which started at 8:30 p.m. local time (1730 GMT) and lasted nearly one and a half hours. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye/Handout via Xinhua) ISTANBUL, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Russian and Ukrainian delegations held a third round of peace talks here on Wednesday evening at the Ciragan Palace, during which the two sides agreed on another prisoner exchange but clashed on ceasefire terms and a potential presidential meeting. Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov led the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, respectively. The closed-door talks were chaired by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Following the talks, which lasted for less than one hour, Umerov said at a press conference that Ukraine continues to insist on a full and unconditional ceasefire as the essential foundation for effective diplomacy. "We are ready for a ceasefire now and to start substantive peace negotiations, and it is up to the other side to accept this basic step towards peace," Umerov said. "We emphasize that the ceasefire must be genuine. It must include a complete cessation of strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure," he said. Prior to the talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Moscow and Kiev are "diametrically opposed" in their positions on how to end the conflict, noting that "much work" still needs to be done. The Ukrainian side has proposed to Russia to hold a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "by the end of August," where the participation of U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be "especially valuable," he said. During a separate press conference after the talks, Medinsky said Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,200 prisoners of war each, including a proposal from Moscow to swap about 30 civilians held by Ukraine in the Kursk region. Russia has returned the bodies of 7,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers and is ready to return 3,000 more, he said, requesting the return of any number of deceased Russian soldiers from Ukraine. He also said that the Russian side proposed establishing three online working groups with Ukraine to address political, humanitarian, and military issues, and asked Ukraine to consider declaring short ceasefires of 24-48 hours along the contact line to evacuate the wounded soldiers and recover the bodies of fallen troops. As to the Putin-Zelensky meeting Ukraine proposed, Medinsky said such a meeting is not being considered until certain processes are completed. Meanwhile, Zelensky wrote on social media platform X after the talks that the ninth stage of prisoner exchange took place "today," which involved more than 1,000 people from the Ukrainian side, including those "seriously ill and severely wounded." "It is important that the exchanges are ongoing," he wrote. In his opening remarks to the talks, Fidan urged the two delegations to engage in result-oriented negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ultimately ending the war. "Our goal is to end this bloody war, which has come at a heavy cost, as soon as possible," Fidan said. While the previous two rounds of talks in Istanbul -- held on May 16 and June 2 -- led to the exchange of thousands of war prisoners and the bodies of fallen soldiers, they produced little progress toward a ceasefire. The third round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine is held in Istanbul, Turkiye, on July 23, 2025. Russian and Ukrainian delegations held a third round of peace talks here on Wednesday, which started at 8:30 p.m. local time (1730 GMT) and lasted nearly one and a half hours. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye/Handout via Xinhua) A British man who contacted children in the Quad Cities has been sentenced, according to a Moline Police Facebook post. Courtesy: AP Over the past few years, our Digital Forensic Lab Detectives worked in tandem with numerous local and federal agencies to catch a child predator. Scott West, of Manchester, UK, will spend the next 42 years in federal prison because of the great work of all those involved in this specific case, the post says. This is a great example of our investigators capabilities to leverage technology and catch criminals wherever in the world they try to hide. A news release from the U. S. Attorneys Office says Scott West, 40, of Manchester, United Kingdom, was sentenced on June 23 to 42 years in prison following his convictions for three counts of sexual exploitation of a child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the sentencing hearing, the court was informed that West and another co-conspirator created an account on a popular social media platform in which the two men pretended to be a young woman. Both men used the account to reach out to young boys to solicit sexually explicit photos, the release says. Multiple minors contacted by West were in the Central District of Illinois. When a victim responded by sending sexually explicit photos to the account, West would solicit more photos, threatening to expose the victim if he did not comply. Independently, West would meet children online and engage in similar behavior, knowingly soliciting sexually explicit photos from underage boys in multiple different countries. Also at the hearing, U.S. Chief District Judge Sara Darrow found that the offense involved the knowing misrepresentation of a participants identity to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. West was indicted in December 2022, and a request was made to the government of the United Kingdom for his extradition in June 2023. He was extradited to the United States in October 2024 by the United States Marshals Service and remained in their custody after United States Magistrate Judge Jonathan E. Hawley ordered his detention. West pleaded guilty in January 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statutory penalties for sexual exploitation of a child include not less than 15 years and up to 30 years imprisonment per count, to be followed by not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release on each count. Judge Darrow further ordered that West serve a 10-year term of supervised release. West manipulated and preyed upon children on two continents in his quest to fulfill his own sexual desires.said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger. This extradition and sentence ensured that his American victims received justice in the United States for his crimes. We will continue to work with law enforcement across the globe to bring justice to victims of abuse. Adults should protect children, not prey upon them online as the predator in this case did to victims in multiple countries. The sentencing in this case reflects the heinousness of this mans insidious actions to threaten and harm kids, said Michael Kurzeja, resident agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service Springfield Resident Office. The Secret Service is committed to keeping children safe online and pursuing crimes committed against them. Thanks to the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Central District of Illinois, the Justice Departments Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Greater Manchester Police Serious Crime Division in England, the Illinois State Police and all of our local law enforcement partners for helping bring this defendant to justice. The Justice Departments Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the defendants arrest and extradition from the United Kingdom,the release says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States Secret Service and the Greater Manchester Police Online Child Abuse Investigation Team in England investigated the case, with assistance from the Illinois State Police and several local Illinois police departments and sheriffs offices: the Geneseo Police Department, the Colona Police Department, the Henry County Sheriffs Office, the Kewanee Police Department, and the Moline Police Department. Significant assistance was also provided by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seberger represented the government in the prosecution. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit here. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Central District of Illinois and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) encourage parents to discuss online safety with their children and to ask for help from adults or professionals if they have experienced threats online. Children should know it is always okay to speak with a trusted adult if something they are experiencing online makes them uncomfortable. For more information, email here . NCMEC also has a CyberTipline for reporting child sexual exploitation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Bronx driver has been arrested nearly two years after she was caught on video dragging a pedestrian to his death, police said Wednesday. Timiko Young, 47, was charged Tuesday with leaving the scene of the crash that killed 59-year-old Jose Negro Galan on Oct. 28, 2023. The person who was responsible for his death is finally being held accountable, Galans daughter wrote on Facebook Tuesday. Today I write this knowing you will get the justice you deserve. I carry you in my heart today and always Dad I love you and hope that this allows your spirit to rest in peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say Young was gassing up her 2013 Lincoln sedan at the Jerome Ave. Citgo station near Shakespeare Ave. when Galan fell in front of her car around 5:20 p.m. Surveillance video recovered by police shows Galan stumbling as he walked near Youngs car, then doing an odd pirouette before falling on the ground, law enforcement sources said. A few moments later, Young rolled over Galan as she was pulling out of the gas station and slowly dragged his body toward the exit, prosecutors say. Before leaving the station, Young and her passenger, a 45-year-old woman, stopped and got out, looking beneath her car to where the victim was lodged, according to Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Young and her passenger allegedly did not assist the victim. Instead, she got back behind the wheel and drove at least 950 feet across Edward L Grant highway before stopping in a bike lane, where medics and firefighters would find Galan still wedged beneath her car, Clark said. The defendant allegedly drove her car over the victim who had just fallen, and then after looking under her vehicle, where the man was pinned, she allegedly drove away without reporting what happened, Clark said. Her alleged actions are egregious and show a lack of humanity. Several people tried to stop her from leaving the gas station, but she ignored them, a law enforcement source who watched the video said. At her arraignment on Tuesday, Bronx prosecutors said Galans family lost a father, a son and a grandfather at the hands of the defendant, and that is something that can never be changed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Young claimed to first responders she had just bought the car, which was not registered or insured, from someone on Facebook. She claimed she drove away after looking under her car because she didnt see any blood, a law enforcement source said. While on the highway, she realized she was dragging something and began driving erratically to dislodge whatever it was, she explained, the sources said. Medics rushed Galan to Lincoln Hospital, where he died. Young was near the scene when police arrived but was not charged at the time. She is a good woman, its not even factual, its wrong information, one of Youngs sons told The News. We are just wondering what happens next to our mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city medical examiner ruled Galans death accidental with the cause of death determined by an autopsy to be blunt-force trauma of the torso and extremities, including fractures of multiple ribs and pelvis. A law enforcement source said the medical examiner wasnt able to determine if Galan died from his fall, being run over and dragged or a combination of the two. Galan lived just three blocks away from the gas station. Young lives in the Morris Heights section of the Bronx, according to cops. Theres no moment of joy or relief, Galans daughter wrote of Youngs arrest. All I can say is these are the words I could find to express how I feel. Its been 20 months since you were taken from me. Thats 633 days since I was last able to see you. Thats 90 weeks without hearing your voice. Thats 15,178 hours I missed talking to you. Thats 910,717 minutes that I didnt get to spend with you. Thats 54,643,051 seconds that have gone by of me missing you. Not one moment of my life has gone by without the thought of you Dad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Bronx Criminal Court judge ordered Young held on $10,000 bond on charges of reckless endangerment and leaving the scene of a fatal crash. She is due back in court Oct. 29. An attorney for Young declined to comment when reached Wednesday. With Thomas Tracy THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) A Bronx woman is facing multiple charges after being accused of driving over a man and driving away with his body under her car, according to Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark. 45-year-old Timiko Young is accused of driving over a man who fell in front of her car just after she filled her car with gas at a Citgo Station on Jerome Avenue in October 2023, the DA said. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the investigation, she had allegedly gotten out of her car to look underneath, then got back in and drove across the highway for nearly 1,000 feet. She then stopped in a bicycle lane and waited for Fire and EMS officials to take the victim out from underneath the car, Clark said. Young allegedly claimed she had just purchased the car and hadnt registered or insured it at the time of the incident. She allegedly drove off without reporting what happened to the emergency responders. Young was indicted for leaving the scene of an incident without reporting, and multiple reckless endangerment charges. She is due back in court in October. Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here. Advertisement 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. BROOKFIELD, Ohio (WKBN) A 21-year-old Campbell woman is being held in the Trumbull County Jail on multiple charges after reports that she attacked employees at a local Subway and then stole an employees phone. Read next: Youngstown mayor, police put local bars on notice Officers were called to the Subway restaurant on Warren Sharon Road Wednesday morning after a report about an attack. Police then learned that a customer, later identified as KiMara McKinney, of Campbell, had been waiting outside for the business to open. Employees told police that McKinney was pulling at the door and calling the store, upset that it was not open yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees said they had to hang up and ignore the telephone calls due to the continuous phone calls. Once the business opened, McKinney went inside and confronted one of the employees, punching the employee in the face, a release from the police department states. Another employee attempted to intervene, and McKinney also hit that employee, the release states. During the altercation, police say McKinney reached into one of the employees pockets and removed a cell phone, saying, I have your phone now. McKinney then got into a silver vehicle and left the area, the release stated. Police located a vehicle matching the description of the one involved in the incident near the Wyngate Mobile Home Park on state Route 7. Officers pulled the vehicle over and questioned the driver, McKinney, who they said initially gave them a false name and denied knowledge of the reported attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said McKinney was found with the victims cell phone, however. Police said while arresting McKinney, she was able to slip out of her handcuffs and threaten to harm officers. She was then booked into the Trumbull County Jail on charges of robbery, menacing, identity fraud, obstructing official business and driving under suspension. An ambulance transported both employees to St. Joseph Warren Hospital for treatment of their 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 WKBN.com. ST. MARTIN PARISH, La. (KLFY) St. Martinville Police confirmed the brother of Iris Davis, the missing teen whose body was recently found, has been arrested. Dorian Savoy, 25, was arrested and charged for failure to report a homicide, police said. Detectives said Davis was last seen at her home on July 13 and was reported missing four days later on July 17. Authorities confirmed that her body was found lying in a field on Maraist Street, near her home. The investigation is being treated as a homicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case remains under investigation. We will update as more information is released. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest 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. PROVIDENCE Brown University Health is considering closing Gateway Healthcare, the states largest nonprofit behavioral health care provider, and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, the states primary provider of dental care for children and people with special needs, in an effort to rein back costs. The closure of the two facilities would have a vast impact on Rhode Islands health care system, advocates say, by cutting access to vital services for vulnerable patient populations. Brown Health, the states largest health system, has been mulling the decisions since at least May, according to an internal memo from CEO John Fernandez obtained by The Journal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides closing Gateway Healthcare and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, Brown Health is also considering halting facility projects at Rhode Island Hospital, reducing adult inpatient psychiatric services, stopping labor and delivery services at Newport Hospital and cutting contracts for some state programs. These are difficult measures, given the vital role these services play. But rising costs from competitive wages to essential technology and facility investments require us to plan for different scenarios to preserve our mission, Fernandezs memo said. Brown Health is still evaluating its budget for fiscal year 2026 and has yet to announce any decisions, according to a statement sent by Jess Wharton, a spokesperson for the health system. Our priority remains protecting our core mission, and we expect to provide more details in the coming weeks, the statement said. Gateway Healthcare in Pawtucket. Brown University Health is mulling closing Gateway and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center as a cost-cutting measure. The decisions were predicated on whether the General Assembly would approve a $90 million Medicaid increase, which when matched by federal funds would increase to $270 million, the memo stated. Rhode Island lawmakers did increase Medicaid rates by $15 million from state funds totaling about $40 million with the federal match plus $38 million for hospital reimbursement rates and direct support payments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 2012 and 2024 except for 2020 and 2021, when hospital finances were boosted by pandemic relief funds Brown Health operated on an average margin of about $6 million a year, according to figures provided by Wharton. That is below the health systems target of a 3% margin though Brown Health did not provide dollar figures for that margin, for how big the financial gap is in this years budget nor for how much it would save by closing Gateway Healthcare and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center. But according to Brown Healths report for fiscal year 2024, Gateway Healthcare reported a loss of more than $5 million. Stalwarts of behavioral and dental care Both Gateway Healthcare and the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center have long histories and are stalwart providers of behavioral and dental care in Rhode Island. Gateway Healthcares origins date back to the 1960s, according to a history from Brown Health. In the decades since, it grew into a network of community mental health centers, and in 2013 it became affiliated with Brown Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gateway Healthcare has locations in Pawtucket, Johnston and Charlestown. Besides behavioral health care, Gateway Healthcare also offers a host of social services, among them substance abuse treatment, bereavement counseling, family shelters and autism programs through other organizations that are affiliated with it or merged under its umbrella. The organization employs more than 600 staffers, among them psychiatrists, psychologists and clinicians. It serves more than 25,000 Rhode Islanders each year. Part of the challenge is that behavioral health and substance abuse services are reimbursed at lower levels than other medical specialties, said Linda Hurley, head of CODAC, a nonprofit that provides similar services. Were never sustainable to the point that if we stub our toe twice in one fiscal year, we are not in trouble. Theres just not enough compensation, Hurley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But closing Gateway Healthcare could result in primary care offices being inundated with patients, said Jen Etue, director of integrated behavioral health at Open Door Health, a clinic in Providence. And it would come at a time when Rhode Island is seeing an increase in need for behavioral health care services. A closure would be pretty catastrophic for the state of Rhode Island, Etue said. This is going to stretch an already pretty thin system even thinner. Losing Samuels Sinclair would be unspeakable The Samuels Sinclair Dental Center similarly has a long legacy in Rhode Island. It was founded nearly a century ago in 1931 according to a Brown Health history. It is now the oldest and largest dental care practice in the state for people with special needs. The center has about 30 staff members, among them pediatric and general dentists, residents, dental hygienists, assistants and administrative staff, according to Elizabeth Benz, director of the clinic. It sees about 19,000 patients annually; many of them have special needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are also the primary provider for all of the state's group home patients, for intellectual disabled patients. You're thinking autism syndrome, Down syndrome, any other syndromic things, seizure disorders, so we basically take all of those patients on as well, and there are very, very few other providers that are capable of handling that population, Benz said. Samuels Sinclair Dental Center in Providence. Brown University Health is considering closing the dental center, as well as Gateway Healthcare. The center also does all pre-valve clearances for cardiothoracic surgeries at Rhode Island Hospital, clears patients for head and neck cancer treatment and treats rare tooth infections. The centers proximity to Rhode Island Hospital it is on the hospitals campus is convenient for getting those clearances, Benz said, but without it patients may have to go to other sites before treatment at the hospital. And it is one of two sites for dental residencies in Rhode Island (the state does not have a dental school). Three residents train at the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center every year, but they often leave the state after graduating. Steve Brown, chief of service at the center, said closing it would deliver a blow to the special needs community in Rhode Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Closure of this place would be devastating for the community, because theres really no place like the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center in the state. We are the safety net for the safety net, Brown said. It's also very shortsighted on the hospital's part, because of all the other treatment that this place provides that no one else in the state, even in Southeastern Massachusetts, provides this level of care, he added. Dentists have also raised concerns over low reimbursement rates from Medicaid, leading most private practices to not accept it anymore, Benz said. The Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, which does take some forms of Medicaid, also has the challenge that services for special needs patients may take twice as long and require twice as many staff as a regular appointment but get reimbursed at the same rate, Brown said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fotini Dionisopoulos, president of the Rhode Island Dental Association, said if Brown Health shuts down the Samuels Sinclair Dental Center, it would have an unspeakable impact on the community. For being such a pioneer in education and diversity and inclusivity, to shut this establishment down goes against all of the principles that they promote themselves to be, by shutting off the access of dental care to our special needs population, Dionisopoulos said. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Brown Health considers closing key behavioral, dental care providers On July 23 Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to 10 years for burglary and four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole, along with $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. Bryan Kohberger was studying for a Phd in criminology in 2022 when he was accused of butchering four University of Idaho students in their sleep. When the autistic 30-year-old pleaded guilty to the brutal murders on Wednesday, his former professor questioned whether her module on serial killers may have served as inspiration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have to look at the framework of what I taught and wonder, did I inspire him in some way? Dr Katherine Ramsland, a psychologist at Pennsylvanias DeSales University, told NewsNation. Dr Ramsland, who taught Kohberger during his undergraduate degree said she never observed any red flags about her former student, but conceded psychopaths might be drawn to her area of study. Unfortunately, in this field, thats what we live with, she said. Its a compelling explanation to a case that sent shockwaves through the remote farming community of Moscow, grabbed headlines around the world and set off a nationwide manhunt that lasted for weeks, ending in the arrest of Kohberger. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania in 2022 - Matt Rourke In the years since, a motive for the killings has never been established. Nor has a connection between Mr Kohberger and the victims Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Madison Mogen who were stabbed to death at their rental home near campus in the early hours of Nov 13, 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Kohbergers August trial looming, his lawyers decision to plead guilty, in a last-ditch effort to avoid the death penalty, has left families of the deceased divided, at least some of whom had hoped for their day in court. We are beyond furious at the state of Idaho, the Goncalves family wrote on Facebook. They have failed us. Following Kohbergers arrest, friends were left baffled by how a polite, curious Phd candidate from an affluent background could have carried out such a heinous and calculated crime against four complete strangers. Its wild, Jack Baylis, a Pennsylvania friend of Mr Kohbergers at the time, told The New York Times. Bryan himself wouldve been fascinated by it. Prosecutors said Kohberger took the above selfie hours after the murders But in the weeks after his detention, details of the students troubled past, involving heroin use and suicidal thoughts, began to surface, painting a picture of a more mentally unstable character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel like an organic sack of meat with no self worth, he wrote in 2011, when he was 16, adding: As I hug my family, I look into their faces, I see nothing, it is like I am looking at a video game, but less. The posts were made on an online forum called Tapatalk, where he also professed to experience the constant thought of suicide and a feeling of being able to do whatever I want with little remorse. Mr Kohberger graduated high school in Pennsylvania in 2013, where he was allegedly bullied for his weight (he posted online of having lost half his body weight) and later began using heroin, friends told The New York Times. Messages seen by the newspaper suggested that after attending rehab, he got clean and told a friend in October 2018 that he was interested in studying high-profile offenders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a police affidavit, Mr Kohberger applied for an internship with the Police Department in Pullman Washington, where he was living while studying criminology at Washington State University, in the months before he murdered the four students. On the night of the murders, Kohberger slipped into the house via the kitchens sliding door before climbing to the stairs to the third floor, where he used his seven-inch blade to stab Mogen and Goncalves as they slept alongside each other, according to court documents. University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves (second from left, bottom) Madison Mogen (second from left, top), Ethan Chapin (center) and Xana Kernodle (second from right) were killed. Dylan Mortensen (far left) and Bethany Funke (far right) survived - ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock He left the room, where he encountered Kernodle, who was awake after picking up a food delivery. After killing her, he went into her bedroom to find, Chapin, her boyfriend, asleep and stabbed him to death. The day of the murders, the two surviving female housemates called the police at around noon to report that one of the victims was unresponsive, presuming they were unconscious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responders arrived at the three-storey home to find all four victims dead, spread out between the houses bedrooms. Post-mortems showed some of the victims were likely asleep when they were killed, while others showed signs of defensive wounds. One of the surviving housemates, Dylan Mortensen, said she woke up a short time after 4am because she thought she heard Goncalves say: Theres someone here, according to court documents. Ms Mortensen said she looked out her bedroom door and couldnt see anything, but later thought she heard crying from Kernodles room before a male voice said: Its okay, Im going to help you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said she opened the door again, this time seeing, a figure clad in black clothing with a mask covering their mouth and nose walking toward her. She froze in shock, according to the affidavit, and the person walked past before she locked herself in her room. At 4.20am, Ms Mortensen began frantically calling her housemates. Bethany Funke, the other surviving housemate, replied to her message and the pair exchanged a string of panicked texts in which Ms Mortensen described the figure in a ski mask and said she was freaked out. The next morning, the pair sent more messages to their housemates at 10.20am, but did not get a reply. Shortly before noon, they called 911. As police scrambled for leads in the wake of the murders, they asked for information about a white Hyundai Elantra sedan which passed the home on three occasions on the night of the killings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities eventually learned Kohlberger owned a car of that description which he had driven to his parents home, a gated community in Pennsylvania, in the days afterwards. A search of the house recovered rubbish that matched the DNA to a knife sheath left at the scene, the affidavit said. Online shopping records also showed that Mr Kohberger, months earlier, had purchased a military-style knife matching the sheath, and his claim that he was on a solo drive at the time of the killings did little to absolve him. Most troubling of all, cellphone data and surveillance video showed that Mr Kohberger visited the victims neighbourhood at least a dozen times before the killings, suggesting he was canvassing his victims. The house where the killings took place in Moscow, Idaho - LINDSEY WASSON During his detention, Kohbergers lawyers exhausted all avenues to bar the prosecution from seeking the death penalty for his crimes, claiming their clients autism diagnosis diminished his responsibility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following his guilty plea in exchange for a life sentence, some of the victims families have expressed relief that they can now put this behind us. But Kohbergers punishment will provide little relief to Goncalvess family, who have demanded a full confession of the events on the night their daughter was killed. Bryan Kohberger facing a life in prison means he would still get to speak, form relationships, and engage with the world, Goncalvess 18-year-old sister, Aubrie, said. Meanwhile, our loved ones have been silenced forever. That reality stings more deeply when it feels like the system is protecting his future more than honouring the victims pasts. 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. Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to four life sentences without the possibility of parole on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to the murders of four University of Idaho students in 2022. The surviving roommates and families of the victims delivered emotional statements at the sentencing hearing, held in a courtroom in Boise. When given the opportunity to speak, Kohberger declined to do so. Kohberger pleaded guilty earlier this month to the murders of Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves as part of a plea deal that spared him from the death penalty. He was in the courtroom Wednesday wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and listened as the families of the victims confronted him with powerful statements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hearing lasted about three hours, with more than a dozen family impact statements read aloud. Chapin, Kernodle, Mogen and Goncalves were killed at a home in Moscow, Idaho, during the early morning hours of Nov. 13, 2022. Kohberger was arrested at his parents' home in Pennsylvania six weeks later. Prosecutors said that if the case had gone to trial they would have used DNA evidence that linked Kohberger to the crime scene, his online purchase history, surveillance video of Kohberger's car, and cellphone data that showed him in the vicinity of the killings. His motive is still unknown. Photos show the four University of Idaho students who were stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2022. Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders. / Credit: CBS News Kohberger sentenced to life in prison Judge Steven Hippler spoke emotionally for several minutes before sentencing Kohberger. He called Kohberger a "faceless coward" and said he was in "great awe" of the family members who had given statements. He also criticized Kohberger for failing to show remorse or regret about the slayings. He said he could not legally force Kohberger to explain why he had committed the slayings, and said he did not believe Kohberger would answer the question truthfully either way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is no reason for these crimes that could approach anything resembling rationality," Hippler said. "No conceivable reason could make any sense, and in the end, the more we struggle to seek explanation for the unexplainable, the more we try to extract a reason, the more power and control we give to him. In my view, the time has now come to end Mr. Kohberger's 15 minutes of fame." After speaking, Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four consecutive sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole. He was also sentenced to 10 years in prison on the burglary charge. Kohberger did not react after the sentence was read out. For each charge, Kohberger was also charged $50,000. He also owes a civil penalty of $5,000, payable to the family of the victim, for each murder charge. Kohberger will be required to submit DNA as part of the plea deal, Hippler said. Kohberger has waived his right to an appeal, but can file a notice of appeal, Hippler said, though that notice might violate the plea agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Victim impact statements About two hours of the hearing were dedicated to statements read by the loved ones of the victims. The first victim impact statement was read on behalf of Bethany Funke, who had lived with the murdered students and called 911 after finding their bodies. "That was the worst day of my life, and I know it always will be," Funke said in the statement, which was read by friend Emily Alant. Funke added that she checks her room every night to ensure there is no one hiding in the space, and said she has struggled to sleep since the slayings. Alant cried as she read the statement, while Kohberger showed no emotion. Dylan Mortensen, the other surviving roommate, was the next to speak. She was visibly distraught and took several moments to collect herself before beginning to read her statement through tears. She said she has struggled with panic attacks since the killings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was barely 19 when he did this," Mortensen said. "We had just celebrated my birthday at the end of September. I should have been figuring out who I was. I should have been having the college experience and starting to establish my future. Instead, I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable." Dylan Mortensen speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP Scott Laramie, Madison Mogen's stepfather, then read a victim impact statement on behalf of himself and Mogen's mother, Karen Laramie. He remembered Mogen as someone who "always brought us joy" and who prioritized spending time with her family before she was "taken senselessly and brutally in a sudden act of evil." "This world was a better place with her in it," Laramie said. Karen Laramie had a second statement read on her behalf by her lawyer, Leander James. Mogen's paternal grandmother Kim Cheeley also spoke, thanking prosecutors and law enforcement officials for "bringing this case to closure." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mogen's father, Ben Mogen, said that his daughter had already earned all of the credits necessary for her degree at the time of the slayings, and wiped his eyes as he spoke. "Maddie was my only child that I ever had. She's the only great thing I ever did and the only thing I was ever proud of," Ben Mogen said. He recounted taking her to concerts with friends, and shared a Father's Day card that he said was the last thing his daughter ever wrote to him, where she'd written "I can't wait till we can hang out again soon." Benjamin Mogen, the father of Madison Mogen, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP Steve Goncalves, the father of Kaylee Goncalves, turned the podium to address Kohberger directly. Kohberger continued to not react, though he made eye contact with Steve Goncalves as he spoke. "Today, we're here to finish what you started," Steve Goncalves said. He called Kohberger a "complete joke" and said the families of the victims "took this disaster" and kept it focused on their loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All anyone talked about when they talked about this case was Kaylee Jade, Maddie May, Xana and Ethan," Steve Goncalves said. He was followed by Alivea Goncalves, Kaylee Goncalves' older sister, who had also been close to Mogen. She again directly spoke to Kohberger, and he maintained eye contact with her, as she called him a sociopath. Alivea Goncalves, the sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. / Credit: Kyle Green/AP "No one is scared of you today. No one is impressed by you. No one thinks you're important," Alivea Goncalves said. There was applause in the courtroom after she finished speaking. She was followed by her and Kaylee Goncalves' mother, Kristi, who again directly addressed Kohberger. Goncalves family attorney Shannon Grey read statements from Kaylee Goncalves' aunt and grandmothers. Jazzmin Kernodle, the older sister of Xana Kernodle, was the first member of her family to speak. She remembered her younger sister as a "kind, funny" woman who "was everyone's best friend." Her father Jeff Kernodle spoke next. He said that the night of the murders, he had been just seven miles from the house and wanted to drive over but decided against it because he had been drinking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I wish I would have drunk and drove. They would have had a chance, all four of them," Jeff Kernodle said. Next to speak was Kim Kernodle, Xana's aunt. She told Kohberger that she had "forgiven" him for the slayings. "I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, and for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. Any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, find my number. I'm here. I'll be that one that will listen to you." Kernodle's uncle Stratton Kernodle and stepfather Randy Davis also spoke briefly, with Davis receiving applause after telling Kohberger to "Go to hell." Karen Worthington, Xana Kernodle's mother, then addressed Kohberger directly, facing in his direction as she read a prepared statement. She also said she had forgiven Kohberger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I do not fear you or even let you rent space in my head anymore. This forgiveness has released me from any and all evil you have released on me and my family," she said. Prosecutor details process behind plea deal After the families finished speaking, prosecutor Bill Thompson took the podium. He walked through the past few weeks of the case, and said the families of the victims had only been interested in a plea agreement that saw Kohberger plead guilty on all counts and waive appeal on all of his motions, which would have "consumed years or decades in the future." The families of the victims were divided over the plea deal. Mogen's father told CBS News he was relieved to learn of the deal, saying it will allow his family to "actually put this behind us." The Goncalves family has bitterly criticized the agreement, and told CBS News after a gag order was lifted that they believe the plea deal gives Kohberger a chance to live a "better and more rewarding life inside" prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thompson said the deal was kept confidential until the last minute because officials did not want to taint a prospective jury pool if the case did proceed to trial. "Now, it is time for the judicial system to impose final judgement and close the door on this chapter of these tragedies," Thompson said. He asked that the judge sentence Kohberger to four consecutive life sentences in prison, one for each murder, and 10 years in prison on the burglary charge. As Thompson named each victim, their photo was shown in the courtroom. He also shared a group photo of the foursome. Crying could be heard in the courtroom as Thompson spoke. Kohberger declines to speak After Thompson spoke, Hippler asked the defense if they had evidence or an argument to present. The team said no. Hippler asked Kohberger if he would like to make a statement. "I respectfully decline," Kohberger said. It was the first time he spoke all day. Family members could be heard murmuring, "Surprise, surprise," and, "Coward." Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Bryan Kohberger was sentenced on Wednesday to four consecutive terms of life imprisonment for the murders of four Idaho students. He was handed an additional 10 years for one count of burglary. Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty to the fatal stabbing of four University of Idaho studentsKaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. The murders took place at an off-campus house in the early hours of Nov. 13, 2022. For each first-degree murder, Kohberger was sentenced to a term of life in prison by District Court Judge Steven Hippler in Boise, Idaho. This sentence was widely anticipated as part of a plea deal that was organized earlier this month, in exchange for not receiving the death penalty. The burglary charge was handed out in relation to Kohberger entering the students private home with the intent to commit a crimein this case, murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge also fined Kohberger $50,000, and a civil penalty of $5,000 for each victim, payable to the families. When Kohberger initially took responsibility for the students deaths, he said nothing of his motive or reasoning. When offered the chance to make a statement during the sentencing hearing on Wednesday, Kohberger said: I respectfully decline. The response elicited a strong reaction from those present in the courtroom, with someone calling him a coward. Judge Hippler noted prior to reading the sentencing that the motive for the murders may never be known. There is no reason for these crimes that could approach anything resembling rationality, he said. "Even if I could force him [Kohberger] to speak, which legally I cannot, how could anyone ever be assured that what he speaks is the truth?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hearing on Wednesday morning was open to the public and live-streamed. Showcasing the wide interest in the high-profile case, more than 50 people lined up before dawn outside the Ada County Courthouse hoping to gain a seat, with some having been waiting since 4 p.m. the previous day. The victims families and housemates were able to read impact statements prior to the sentencing. The two surviving housemates, Bethany Funke and Dylan Mortensen, provided victim impact statements. Funke had hers read by a friend while Mortensen read hers herself. Mortensen described the pain of losing her friends, and the physical and emotional strife she has experienced since the night of the murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He didn't just take them from the world. He took them from memy friends, my people who felt like my home, the people I looked up to and adored more than anyone, took away my ability to trust the world around me, Mortensen told the court. What he did shattered me in places I didn't know could break I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable. Mortensen went on to refer to Kohberger as evil, calling him a hollow vessel, something less than human, a body without empathy, without remorse. Paying tribute to her late housemates, Mortensen said she honors them by living each day. Speaking today is to help me find some sort of justice for them, and I will never let him [Kohberger] take that from me, she said. The families of the victims also addressed the courtroom, delivering poignant statements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mogens father, Ben Mogen, said that his daughter was the only great thing I ever really did, [the] only thing I was ever really proud of. He read aloud the last thing his daughter ever wrote to him, a Fathers Day card. Ill never be able to replace her I just miss her so much, he told the courtroom. Mogens grandmother, Kim Cheeley, referenced Kohbergers family as she delivered her own statement. Kohbergers mother was present in the courtroom for the sentencing. My heart aches for the kids roommates and the families of the other victims, and also the family of the perpetrator, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goncalves sister, Alivea Goncalves, spoke directly to Kohberger, confronting him by calling him a sociopath, psychopath, and murderer. I won't stand here and give you what you want. I won't offer you tears. I won't offer you trembling, she said. Disappointments like you thrive on pain, on fear, and on the illusion of power. She pressed Kohberger with questions about the case and her sisters murder, questions she says reverberate violently. Did you prepare for the crime before leaving your apartment? Please detail what you were thinking and feeling at this time, she asked. Where is the murder weapon? What were Kaylee's last words? What do we know about the murders of the four Idaho students? The night in question and the hours that followed were initially shrouded in mystery, and it was over a month before Kohberger was caught. Some mysteries surrounding the case still remain, but this is what we know of how the murders unfolded, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the murders, Kohberger was a criminology Ph.D. student at Washington State University (WSU), which is located around 10 miles west of the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, just on the border of Washington. According to a police affidavit filed in December 2022, the four victimswho shared a house with two others who were unharmed during the attacksenjoyed a regular college Saturday night out, arriving home in the early hours of Nov. 13. Funke and Mortensen, the surviving housemates, told law enforcement that the deceased returned home from their night out at around 2:00 a.m. Per court documents, Mortensen recalls opening her door at around 4:00 a.m. after hearing what she thought was Goncalves saying something close to theres someone here. She looked out of her door and saw nothing. Mortensen opened her door a second time after hearing crying from the direction of Kernodles room. When she opened her door for a third time, after once more hearing crying, she saw a man wearing a mask that covered his mouth and nose. The man walked past her and towards the sliding door at the back of the house. Mortensen retreated back into her room and locked the door, immediately texting her housemates. The figure was described as 5 ft. 10 in. or taller, male, not very muscular. Hours later, still scared, Mortensen asked her friends to come over, and it was then that the surviving students discovered the bodies of their housemates and called 911, just before noon. How was Kohberger caught? Per the affidavit, DNA was found on a knife sheath located at the scene of the crime. (The knife belonging to the sheathor any other murder weaponhas still not been found.) The sheath was just one piece of evidence that later implicated Kohberger in the murders, in addition to surveillance cameras recording Kohbergers model of car passing by the house where the murders took place several times on the night in question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers also determined that Kohbergers phone had stopped reporting to the local network for roughly two hours on the morning of the murders between around 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. Law enforcement in Pennsylvania, where Kohberger is from, found evidence from Kohbergers family residence which, when sent to a lab in Idaho, found that the DNA located at that residence was of a strong relation to the DNA found on the knife sheath at the scene of the crime. At least 99.9998% of the male population would be expected to be excluded from the possibility of being the suspect's biological father, the affidavit said. Kohberger was arrested on Dec. 30, 2022, and extradited to Idaho. Reactions to the plea agreement President Donald Trump weighed in on the case ahead of the sentencing, posting on Truth Social on Monday that he hoped the judge would uncover the motive behind the murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While life imprisonment is tough, it's certainly better than receiving the death penalty but, before sentencing, I hope the judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders," Trump said. "There are no explanations, there is nothing. People were shocked that he was able to plea bargain, but the judge should make him explain what happened. Goncalves' family responded to Trumps words via a statement of their own shared on Facebook. The family has been very vocal in their opposition to the plea agreement. Kaylee, Maddie, Xana, Ethanyou have always mattered so much," the family said. "You are so loved and your nature, your light, your entire being is so bright and visible. Contact us at letters@time.com. LOS ANGELES, July 23 (Xinhua) -- NASA launched a new mission Wednesday designed to study magnetic explosions in space that occur when the Sun's magnetic field interacts with the Earth's magnetic shield. The mission, known as TRACERS (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites), consists of two satellites about the size of washing machines and aims to "study space weather," said NASA. The spacecraft was launched at 11:13 a.m. local time (1813 GMT) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in the U.S. state of California. Once in orbit, the TRACERS satellites will study how the solar wind -- a continuous flow of electrically charged particles from the Sun -- interacts with the Earth's magnetosphere, the magnetic field that protects the planet from the brunt of solar radiation, according to NASA. "As the solar wind collides with Earth's magnetic field, this interaction builds up energy that can cause the magnetic field lines to snap and explosively fling away nearby particles at high speeds -- this is magnetic reconnection," said John Dorelli, TRACERS mission science lead at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in the U.S. state of Maryland. "The TRACERS mission demonstrates how you can use multi-spacecraft technology to get a picture of how things are moving and evolving," said David Miles, TRACERS mission principal investigator at the University of Iowa. The mission also carries other satellites and spacecraft, including SEOPS' Epic Athena, Skykraft's Skykraft 4, Maverick Space Systems' REAL, Tyvak's LIDE, and York Space Systems' Bard, according to SpaceX. Originally appeared on E! Online Bryan Kohberger's sentencing for the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students doesn't mean the end of the pain for his victims' families. But the July 23 hearingduring which relatives and friends of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, spoke out about the impact of their deathsdoes bring this twisted legal saga to a close. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the start of his trial weeks away, Kohberger, 30, instead pleaded guilty to murder and burglaryand waived his right to appealin a deal with prosecutors that allowed him to avoid the possibility of getting the death penalty if convicted by a jury. Instead, he'll serve life in prison, per the terms of the deal. Kohberger's motive for killing Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin remains unknown. Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson acknowledged in court July 2 that, while cell tower data placed Kohberger's phone near the crime scene 23 times between July 9, 2022 and when the murders were committed Nov. 13, 2022, investigators hadn't been able to personally connect him to any of the victims. But Kohberger did confess to murder, answering in the affirmative when asked in court whether he had "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought" killed the students. More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Kohberger did confess to murder, answering in the affirmative when asked in court whether he had "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought" killed the students. Zach Wilkinson-Pool/Getty Images Autopsies concluded all four deaths were caused by multiple stab wounds, while some of the victims had defensive wounds, indicating they fought for their lives. "Today, we are here to finish what you started," Kaylee's father Steve Goncalves told Kohberger in court July 23, reading from his victim impact statement, per NBC News. "We are here to prove to the world that you picked the wrong families, wrong state, the wrong police officers, the wrong community." Follow the timeline of the murder investigation leading to Kohberger's arrest and eventual guilty plea: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Who Were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were University of Idaho students who lived in an off-campus apartment. On Nov. 12, 2022the night before their bodies were foundGoncalves and Mogen were at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin were at the latters fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on Nov. 13, the four roommates and Chapin were back at the three-story rental house. Goncalves was a senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. She was expected to graduate in December before heading to Austin, Texas, for a job at a marketing firm, her friend Jordyn Quesnell told The New York Times. Mogen, who was studying marketing, was best friends with Goncalves since the sixth grade. She had plans to move to Boise after graduation, family friend Jessie Frost shared with The Idaho Statesman. Kernodle was a junior majoring in marketing, the University said at the time. She and Chapinwho majored in recreation, sport and tourism managementhad been dating since the spring, the roommates neighbor Ellie McKnight told NBC News. Were There Any Survivors? Two roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, had been home at the time of the murders. In text messages that were unsealed March 6, 2025, Mortensen and Funke tried contacting their roommates on Nov. 13 after the former saw a masked man moving through the house, according to documents obtained by E! News. "No one is answering," Mortensen texted Funke at 4:22 a.m. "I'm rlly confused rn." She continued to reach out to their roommates, urging them to respond. "Pls answer," she texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m. and again at 10:23 a.m. "R u up??" At 11:58 a.m., a 911 call was placed after Kernodle was found unresponsive, per an additional motion obtained by E! News. A woman named A1 in the transcript described the current situation to the operator. "One of the roommates who's passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up," she said on the phone. "They saw some man in their house last night." Who Is Bryan Kohberger and How Was He Found? Bryan Kohberger, who was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, was a doctoral candidate at Washington State University. Over one month after the bodies of Gonclaves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were discovered, Kohberger was taken into custody Dec. 30 in Monroe County, Penn. He was extradited to Idaho Jan. 4, 2023. As for how authorities connected him to the killings? DNA was found on a knife sheath that was left at the crime scene, prosecutors revealed in June 2023 court documents, per NBC News. When the DNA didn't match anyone in the FBI database, authorities ran the DNA through public ancestry websites to create a list of potential suspects, according to the filings. After learning that Kohberger had driven to his parents' home in Monroe County, local officials then went through their trash and found DNA that tied him to that found on the sheath. What Was Kohbergers Initial Defense? At the moment, a motive for the attack has not been detailed and a gag order prevents many involved in the case from speaking publicly, NBC News reported. However, the unsealed documents provided some insight into their initial arguments. Kohberger's attorneys argued in a motion obtained by E! News to strike the death penalty that Kohbergerwho initially faced death penalty if found guilty on all countshas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that executing him would violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on "cruel and unusual punishment." His defense argued that Kohbereger "displays extremely rigid thinking, perseverates on specific topics, processes information on a piecemeal basis, struggles to plan ahead, and demonstrates little insight into his own behaviors and emotions." "Due to his ASD, Mr. Kohberger simply cannot comport himself in a manner that aligns with societal expectations of normalcy," the motion said. "This creates an unconscionable risk that he will be executed because of his disability rather than his culpability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where Was the Trial Set? Initially, Kohberger had a judge enter a not-guilty plea to the first-degree murder charges on his behalf after remaining silent at his May 2023 arraignment. Although his trial was set to begin Oct. 2, 2023, Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial in August 2023. His trial datewhich was scheduled to take place in Ada County, more than 300 miles from Latah County, where the killings took placewas set to begin Aug. 11, 2025. Latah County Judge John Judge previously ruled in favor of the transfer request made by Kohberger's defense in September 2024 based on "presumed prejudice" if the trial remained in Latah County. Ada County Judge Steven Hippler denied the defense's request to suppress key DNA and other evidence, including cell phone and email records, surveillance footage, past Amazon purchases and DNA evidence in the trial. What Was the Verdict in the Trial? Kohberger's murder trial was abruptly canceled after he took a plea deal from prosecutors on June 30, 2025. In accepting the deal, Kohberger agreed to plead guilty to four counts of murder and one count of burglary, as well as waive his rights to appeal and ask for a more lenient prison sentence. He entered his guilty plea on July 2, 2025, confirming with a "yes" after the judge asked if he killed all four victims "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought." Did Kohberger Take a Selfie After the Murders? A selfie Kohberger took the morning after the murders took place was introduced in March 2025. The photograph, which sees him in front of a shower showing a thumbs up, displays how he may fit the description a witness identified as "D.M." gave in filings, who said the perpetrator had "bushy eyebrows." Steve Gonclaves, the father of victim Kaylee, later reacted to the image calling it a "trophy" in an interview with Fox and Friends. "I know the timeline, I know that he had just returned to the crime scene and he had come back," Gonclaves said. "He had realized that nobody had called 911." As he put it, "To him, thats his little trophy to let him know like, Hey, I got away with it, nobodys on me. What Did Kohberger Google Before the Murders? In a 2025 Dateline documentary about the murders, a former classmate of Kohbergers detailed a peculiar text she received from him after making his acquaintance at a party. I definitely felt a little obligated to chat with him, because to me, he seemed a little awkward, the studentidentified as Hollyexplained. Kind of like you might expect for a PhD student who didn't know anyone at the party and was maybe trying his best to kind of get out there and be social and make friends. The following day, Holly said she received a text from him, which she described as overly formal. Hey, I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday, Bryans text from July 10, 2022 at 1:19 p.m., read, per Dateline. I really enjoy that activity, so please let me know. Thanks! Elsewhere in the Dateline documentary, Kohbergers browsing history was found to have included searches for Ted Bundy, Britney Spears song Criminal, and the term University of Idaho Murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Bryan Kohberger had no words for his mother after he was sentenced to serve four lifetimes in prison on Wednesday, July 23. The New York Times reports that after learning his fate, the quadruple murderer ignored both his mother Maryann and sister Amanda as he exited the courtroom. They were the only two members of Kohberger's family who were in attendance at his sentencing hearing. Both women were later seen being escorted from the courthouse by Kohberger's public defender Anne Taylor. AP Photo/Drew Nash Defense Attorney Anne Taylor, Maryann Kohberger and Amanda Kohberger Defense Attorney Anne Taylor, Maryann Kohberger and Amanda Kohberger It was an emotional day in court for Maryann, who, according to the Times, was seen "shuddering at times and in one instance putting her head in her hands." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point in the proceedings, a family member of one victim made mention of Maryann during her remarks. 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. "My heart aches for the kids' roommates, and the families of the other victims and also the family of the perpetrator," said Kim Cheeley, the grandmother of victim Madison Mogen. Shortly after Cheeley spoke there was a brief recess, and upon returning to the courtroom, the Times reports that Kohberger did smile and nod at his mother, but that appeared to be the lone interaction between the two. AP Photo/Kyle Green Kim Cheeley Kim Cheeley The hearing ended with Kohberger being sentenced to serve four lifetimes in prison without the possibility of parole on the four murder charges, plus 10 years on a burglary charge. He was also ordered to pay $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes three weeks after he appeared in the same Boise courtroom and confessed to the murders of: Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. Kohberger's sister Amanda looked eager to make a quick exit from the courthouse after the hearing, leading the way with her mother Maryann following close behind. Amanda also appeared eager to shield her mother who wore dark, oversized sunglasses from the cameras. AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool Bryan Kohberger Bryan Kohberger It is unclear if the two women will have a chance to see Kohberger before he is released from the Ada County Jail and placed into the custody of the Idaho Department of Corrections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger will now undergo a two-week evaluation after which the IDOC will determine what prison he is sent to for the rest of his life. That will likely be the lone maximum security prison in Idaho but could also be an out-of-state facility due to safety concerns surrounding the high-profile inmate. Read the original article on People Bryan Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four lifetimes in prison without parole for the murders of four University of Idaho students plus 10 years for a burglary charge and $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. The convicted murderer, 30, appeared in an Idaho courtroom this afternoon for his sentencing hearing, three weeks after appearing in the same Boise courtroom and confessing to the murders of those four friends: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four were found brutally stabbed to death inside a Moscow home on Nov. 13, 2022, and on Wednesday the man who took their lives was sentenced to four lifetimes in prison without the possibility of parole plus an additional 10 years on a burglary charge. Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke Ada County District Court Judge Steven Hippler handed down the sentence after a long and emotional day of victim impact statements from family and friends of the victims. Among those who delivered statements were surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen and the families of Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves. The other surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, also wrote a victim impact statement which she had a friend read in court. 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. AP Photo/Kyle Green Bryan Kohberger Bryan Kohberger Many of the statements were delivered through tears with Alivea Goncalves, the older sister of Kaylee, being one of the rare exceptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She received an ovation from the court at the end of her remarks, which she concluded by saying: "You want the truth? Here's the one youll hate the most. If you hadnt attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night like a pedophile, Kaylee would have kicked your fing ass." Judge Hippler told Kohberger he "ripped a hole in the soul" of his victim's families, fighting back tears as he spoke to the killer in court. He later applauded the strength and bravery of Mortensen and Funke while deriding those who spent months concocting damaging and false stories about the two playing some role in the murders of their friends. AP Photo/Kyle Green Steve and Kristi Goncalves Steve and Kristi Goncalves Kohberger himself did not speak, however, or offer any apology to the family and friends of his victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former criminology student entered guilty pleas to the murders in a last second deal with prosecutors that allowed him to avoid the death penalty. In exchange, he signed off on Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson recommending to the court that be sentenced to a term of life in prison for each of the four murders. Judge Hippler had the ability to impose any sentence he deemed just, but ultimately opted to hand down the punishment recommended by prosecutors. Kohberger will now be transferred from the Ada County Jail to the Idaho Department of Corrections, a spokesperson for the agency tells PEOPLE. AP Photo/Kyle Green Bryan Kohberger Bryan Kohberger He will not be headed to prison for at least a week after his sentencing, however, said the spokesperson, who provided an overview of what that first week or two would involve for the quadruple murderer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Once in IDOC custody, the person goes through a reception and diagnostic process (RDU) to evaluate their needs and determine appropriate housing placement," the spokesperson said, adding that this process could take anywhere from one to two weeks. After he completes that process, the IDOC will determine his prisoner classification and based on that, his housing placement, the spokesperson explained. That placement will likely be in the lone maximum security facility in Idaho, but there is also the possibility of Kohberger being booked into a facility outside the state given his infamy. Read the original article on People July 23 (UPI) -- Bryan Kohberger, who pleaded guilty in the killings of four University of Idaho students in 2022, was sentenced Wednesday to four life sentences. The judge added 10 years to the sentence for the burglary. The hearing began at 11 a.m. EDT and family members gave their victim impact statements. Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty on July 2 to murdering students Ethan Chapin, 20, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Madison Mogen, 21, in their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hearing was public and livestreamed. There were more than 50 people outside Ada County Courthouse before dawn, CBS News reported. Some had waited all night. The plea agreement Kohberger took gave him four life sentences with no possibility of parole plus 10 for the burglary. The agreement takes the death penalty off the table. Judge Steven Hippler had the right to impose a different sentence, but didn't. The case's venue was transferred from Latah County to Ada County to ensure a fair trial. Hippler called Bryan Kohberger a "coward" who "slithered through the sliding glass door at 1122 King Road" and "now stands unmasked," ABC News reported. This "unfathomable and senseless act of evil has caused immeasurable pain and loss," Hippler said. "No parent should ever have to bury their child. This is the greatest tragedy that can be inflicted upon a person." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are now certain who committed these unspeakable acts of evil, but what we don't know, and what we may never know, is why," Hippler said. The judge said he wants to know the motive, but that "by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance," and the "spotlight, attention and power he appears to crave." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in Wednesday's press briefing, "We are so sorry for the grief and the pain you have experienced at the hands of such a vicious and evil killer. Our nation grieves with you, and we will never forget the precious souls who were lost in this horrific act of evil." Leavitt also reiterated President Donald Trump's message from earlier this week that he wants Kohberger to reveal a motive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If it were up to the president, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls," Leavitt said. Trump weighed in on the case on social media after the plea hearing, saying he thinks Kohberger should be required to reveal a motive. "I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders," he wrote. "There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. People were shocked that he was able to plea bargain, but the Judge should make him explain what happened." Kohberger's parents were at his plea hearing on July 2. It was their first time in court with Kohberger since his arrest in Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Kohbergers are asking members of the media for privacy, respect, and responsible judgment during this time. We will continue to allow the legal process to unfold with respect to all parties," attorneys for the family said in a statement. Xana Kernodle's stepfather Randy Davis addressed the other victims' families, saying, "I love you all and I feel your pain," he said. He told Kohberger, "You're gonna go to hell ... you're evil ... you took our children ... you are gonna suffer, man." "Go to hell," he said. Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen mentioned the trauma and anxiety she has suffered as a result of the murders, CNN reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He took away my ability to trust the world around me," she said, crying. "What he did shattered me in places I didn't know could break." Mortensen said she "should have been figuring out who I was" and planning her future. "Instead, I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable," she said. She couldn't be alone and slept in her mother's bed, she said. Everywhere she went, she made "escape plans" in case something happened, and she suffers panic attacks. "I can't breathe, I can't think, I can't stop shaking. All I can do is scream, because the emotional pain and the grief is too much to handle on my chest," she said. "It's far beyond anxiety. It's my body reliving everything over and over again." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four students were roommates at an off-campus house. They were stabbed to death at the home early Nov. 13, 2022. Six weeks later, Kohberger was arrested at his parents' home in Pennsylvania. Kohberger was a graduate student pursuing a doctorate in criminology at Washington State University in Pullman, Wash., 9 miles west of Moscow. Goncalves' family thanked Trump for "pushing for justice," saying in a statement to ABC News, "A confession without clarity does not bring peace. "If the defendant is permitted to live, the bare minimum he owes us, and this country -- is an explanation," the family said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mogen family earlier said it was pleased with the plea agreement. "This is the best outcome possible for the victims, their families and state of Idaho," the Mogen family attorney read from a statement outside the courthouse. "We lost our Maddie, our kind, loving, vivacious and caring daughter, full of purpose and promise," the family said. "We are grateful for the gift of her life, and we have grieved the loss of that life during each of these 962 days." Originally appeared on E! Online Bryan Kohberger is facing a lifetime behind bars. The 30-year-old officially was officially sentenced to life in prison July 23, three weeks after he confessed to the 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Presiding Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Bryan to 10 years and imposed a fine of $50,000 on the count of burglary. He also handed out a life sentenceto be served consecutivelywithout the possibility of parole for each count of first-degree murder accompanied with a $50,000 fine for each count and a $5,000 civil penalty to be paid to each of the victims' families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just weeks before the Kohbergers trial was set to begin, he accepted a plea deal that would spare him from the death penalty if he pleaded guilty to the four killings at the off-campus residence and one count of burglary and waived his right to appeal. A judge had previously entered a plea of not guilty on Kohbergers behalf during a May 2023 hearing for the five charges he faced. "Are you pleading guilty because you are guilty?" Hippler questioned Kohberger at the July 2 hearing, who replied, "Yes." More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger was then asked if he killed each victim "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought," to which he affirmed, "Yes." The plea deal also specified that Kohberger would be sentenced to 10 years for the burglary charge and a fixed life sentence on each of the four counts of murder, to be served consecutively, though Hippler noted during the June 30 hearing that, as judge, he is not bound to the agreement. Ultimately, Hippler bestowed a sentence in line with the agreement. Kyle Green-Pool/Getty Images Following the news of the plea deal, a number of affected individuals spoke out, including the families of Kohberger and some of the victims. In the case of Kohbergers family, a release shared by their legal representation asked members of the media for privacy, respect, and responsible judgment during this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iterating their plans to not accept questions or issue additional statements, the family concluded, "We ask that you respect our wishes during a difficult time for all those affected." Meanwhile, the families of Goncalves and Kernodle each slammed the decision to issue a plea deal. Ted S. Warren-Pool/Getty Images As Goncalves family wrote on Facebook June 30, We are beyond furious at the State of Idaho. They have failed us. Please give us some time. This was very unexpected. We appreciate all your love and support." Kernodles family, for their part, took issue with the prosecutions claim a plea deal would spare the victims families the pain of a public trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We know the graphics, Kim Kernodle told TMZ. They were not trying to spare us." For more on the harrowing case, keep reading. Who Were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were University of Idaho students who lived in an off-campus apartment. On Nov. 12, 2022the night before their bodies were foundGoncalves and Mogen were at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin were at the latters fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on Nov. 13, the four roommates and Chapin were back at the three-story rental house. Goncalves was a senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. She was expected to graduate in December before heading to Austin, Texas, for a job at a marketing firm, her friend Jordyn Quesnell told The New York Times. Mogen, who was studying marketing, was best friends with Goncalves since the sixth grade. She had plans to move to Boise after graduation, family friend Jessie Frost shared with The Idaho Statesman. Kernodle was a junior majoring in marketing, the University said at the time. She and Chapinwho majored in recreation, sport and tourism managementhad been dating since the spring, the roommates neighbor Ellie McKnight told NBC News. Were There Any Survivors? Two roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, had been home at the time of the murders. In text messages that were unsealed March 6, 2025, Mortensen and Funke tried contacting their roommates on Nov. 13 after the former saw a masked man moving through the house, according to documents obtained by E! News. "No one is answering," Mortensen texted Funke at 4:22 a.m. "I'm rlly confused rn." She continued to reach out to their roommates, urging them to respond. "Pls answer," she texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m. and again at 10:23 a.m. "R u up??" At 11:58 a.m., a 911 call was placed after Kernodle was found unresponsive, per an additional motion obtained by E! News. A woman named A1 in the transcript described the current situation to the operator. "One of the roommates who's passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up," she said on the phone. "They saw some man in their house last night." Who Is Bryan Kohberger and How Was He Found? Bryan Kohberger, who was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, was a doctoral candidate at Washington State University. Over one month after the bodies of Gonclaves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were discovered, Kohberger was taken into custody Dec. 30 in Monroe County, Penn. He was extradited to Idaho Jan. 4, 2023. As for how authorities connected him to the killings? DNA was found on a knife sheath that was left at the crime scene, prosecutors revealed in June 2023 court documents, per NBC News. When the DNA didn't match anyone in the FBI database, authorities ran the DNA through public ancestry websites to create a list of potential suspects, according to the filings. After learning that Kohberger had driven to his parents' home in Monroe County, local officials then went through their trash and found DNA that tied him to that found on the sheath. What Was Kohbergers Initial Defense? At the moment, a motive for the attack has not been detailed and a gag order prevents many involved in the case from speaking publicly, NBC News reported. However, the unsealed documents provided some insight into their initial arguments. Kohberger's attorneys argued in a motion obtained by E! News to strike the death penalty that Kohbergerwho initially faced death penalty if found guilty on all countshas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that executing him would violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on "cruel and unusual punishment." His defense argued that Kohbereger "displays extremely rigid thinking, perseverates on specific topics, processes information on a piecemeal basis, struggles to plan ahead, and demonstrates little insight into his own behaviors and emotions." "Due to his ASD, Mr. Kohberger simply cannot comport himself in a manner that aligns with societal expectations of normalcy," the motion said. "This creates an unconscionable risk that he will be executed because of his disability rather than his culpability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where Was the Trial Set? Initially, Kohberger had a judge enter a not-guilty plea to the first-degree murder charges on his behalf after remaining silent at his May 2023 arraignment. Although his trial was set to begin Oct. 2, 2023, Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial in August 2023. His trial datewhich was scheduled to take place in Ada County, more than 300 miles from Latah County, where the killings took placewas set to begin Aug. 11, 2025. Latah County Judge John Judge previously ruled in favor of the transfer request made by Kohberger's defense in September 2024 based on "presumed prejudice" if the trial remained in Latah County. Ada County Judge Steven Hippler denied the defense's request to suppress key DNA and other evidence, including cell phone and email records, surveillance footage, past Amazon purchases and DNA evidence in the trial. What Was the Verdict in the Trial? Kohberger's murder trial was abruptly canceled after he took a plea deal from prosecutors on June 30, 2025. In accepting the deal, Kohberger agreed to plead guilty to four counts of murder and one count of burglary, as well as waive his rights to appeal and ask for a more lenient prison sentence. He entered his guilty plea on July 2, 2025, confirming with a "yes" after the judge asked if he killed all four victims "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought." Did Kohberger Take a Selfie After the Murders? A selfie Kohberger took the morning after the murders took place was introduced in March 2025. The photograph, which sees him in front of a shower showing a thumbs up, displays how he may fit the description a witness identified as "D.M." gave in filings, who said the perpetrator had "bushy eyebrows." Steve Gonclaves, the father of victim Kaylee, later reacted to the image calling it a "trophy" in an interview with Fox and Friends. "I know the timeline, I know that he had just returned to the crime scene and he had come back," Gonclaves said. "He had realized that nobody had called 911." As he put it, "To him, thats his little trophy to let him know like, Hey, I got away with it, nobodys on me. What Did Kohberger Google Before the Murders? In a 2025 Dateline documentary about the murders, a former classmate of Kohbergers detailed a peculiar text she received from him after making his acquaintance at a party. I definitely felt a little obligated to chat with him, because to me, he seemed a little awkward, the studentidentified as Hollyexplained. Kind of like you might expect for a PhD student who didn't know anyone at the party and was maybe trying his best to kind of get out there and be social and make friends. The following day, Holly said she received a text from him, which she described as overly formal. Hey, I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday, Bryans text from July 10, 2022 at 1:19 p.m., read, per Dateline. I really enjoy that activity, so please let me know. Thanks! Elsewhere in the Dateline documentary, Kohbergers browsing history was found to have included searches for Ted Bundy, Britney Spears song Criminal, and the term University of Idaho Murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison without parole Wednesday for murdering four University of Idaho students in 2022. Judge Steven Hippler imposed four consecutive life sentences and a 10-year sentence for the burglary charge, declaring during the hearing that the time has now come to end Mr. Kohbergers 15 minutes of fame. The sentencing followed impact statements from loved ones of the victims earlier in the day. Hippler asked Kohberger if he wanted to address the court, to which Kohberger respectfully declined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Kohberger pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary in the 2022 killings of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Ethan Chapin, 20, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Madison Mogen, 21. The plea allowed him to dodge the death penalty. However, it also means that he will not be allowed to appeal his sentence, which he will serve without the possibility of parole. The fatal stabbings Kohberger admitted to occurred in an off-campus house where Gonclaves, Kernodle and Mogen lived on Nov. 13, 2022. Chapin, who was also murdered that night, had been dating Kernodle, but he did not live in the house. Prosecutors claim Kohberger stabbed the students multiple times with a military-style knife. The stabbings likely occurred while they were sleeping, autopsies showed. Two other roommates who lived in the house survived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger, who was a Ph.D. student at Washington State University studying criminology at the time of the murders, was arrested Dec. 30, 2022, at his parents home in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania, following a weekslong manhunt. Authorities nailed him down as a suspect after finding a DNA sample at the crime scene, discovering the vehicle he used to drive to the scene, descriptions about his appearance from the surviving roommates and his phone records. Authorities have not released a motive for the attack. They said surveillance footage and cellphone records show that Kohberger visited the home at least a dozen times before the murders. Hippler on Wednesday argued that focusing on Kohbergers probable motive only gave him agency and power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if I could force him to speak, which legally I cannot, how could anyone ever be assured that what he speaks is the truth? Hippler told the court. Do we really believe, after all this, hes capable of speaking the truth or giving up something of himself to help the very people whose lives he destroyed? he added. The plea deal has received some backlash, including from family members of Kaylee Goncalves. In a Facebook post, the Gonclaves family said they are beyond furious at the State of Idaho and that the state failed them. Steve Goncalves, the father of Kaylee Goncalves, echoed the sentiment in an interview on NBCs Today show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors reportedly attempted to explain the plea deal in a written letter to family members of the victims. This resolution is our sincere attempt to seek justice for your family, prosecutors wrote. This agreement ensures that the defendant will be convicted, will spend the rest of his life in prison, and will not be able to put you and the other families through the uncertainty of decades of post-conviction appeals. During the July 2 hearing in which Kohberger pleaded guilty, Hippler said the public had called him and his office. There have been calls by some for the public to contact me and my office in an attempt to influence my decision-making in this case, Hippler said. This has been extraordinarily disruptive for court staff and the ability for them to get work done. Related... Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole on Wednesday, July 23, in connection with the murders of the Idaho Four. He was also given an additional 10 years for his burglary charge. Prior to his sentencing, Kohberger, 30, declined to make a statement to the court. The judge addressed his decision, pointing out that even if Kohberger did speak, How could anyone ever be assured that what he speaks is the truth? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do we really believe after all this, he continued, hes capable of speaking the truth or giving up something of himself to help the very people whose lives he destroyed? The time has now come to end Mr. Kohbergers 15 minutes of fame, he added. As National Enquirer previously reported, Kohberger pleaded guilty to one count of felony burglary and four counts of first-degree murder for the 2022 slayings of Ethan Chapin, 20, Xana Kernodle, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, in early July. The four students were found dead in their off-campus home they shared on November 13, 2022. Kohberger was arrested on suspicion of their murders that December. Following the courts decision to accept his plea deal, the Goncalves family posted to Facebook that they were beyond furious that the state of Idaho failed them with the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 18, Kaylees mother, Kristi Goncalves, told the Today show that she wished Kohberger wouldve had to say his victims names in court to show a little more accountability and owning up to what he did. Steve Goncalves, Kaylees father, added that hed wanted to see some sternness over the four young lives that had been lost, but Bryan wasnt even asked to stand for his guilty plea. He also shared that he believed that more details of his daughters murder would trickle out over time from Kohberger himself. I think were gonna find out secrets through his sick, twisted mind, he suggested at the time. Hes gonna write about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, on July 14, Ethans parents shared a different perspective on the controversial plea deal. Jim and Stacy Chapin admitted they were satisfied with the courts decision, despite the fact that it meant the death penalty was no longer on the table. I think our initial response was like, an eye for an eye, Stacy said during their own appearance on Today. But weve spent a ton of time talking about it with prosecutors, and for us, we always felt like this was a better deal. I mean, [Kohberger] gets put away, and theres no appeal system to it. Bryan Kohberger was sentenced today, July 23, to life in prison without parole for the murders of four Idaho college students following hours of tear-filled, tumultuous testimony from the victims' friends and family. Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty July 2 to four counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of Kaylee Gonclaves, 21; Madison Mogen, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. Kohberger chose not to speak at Wednesday's sentence, responding "I respectfully decline." Kohberger showed little emotion during the sentence, which began at 11 a.m. Eastern and concluded shortly after 1:30 p.m. Here's everything to know about the sentence, the plea, background and what happens next. What was Bryan Kohberger sentence? Bryan Kohberger was sentenced on Wednesday, July 23, to four consecutive life sentences plus 10 years on the burglary count. He previously waived his right to appeal; however, the judge said he still has the right to do so under a U.S. Supreme Court case. Did Bryan Kohberger get the death penalty? No, Bryan Kohberger was not sentenced to the death penalty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of a plea deal on July 2, prosectors agreed not to recommend capital punishment, which is legal in Idaho. In March, Idaho became the only state to use firing squad as its primary method of execution, which will take effect July 1, 2026. Did Bryan Kohberger speak during sentencing? No, Bryan Kohberger did not speak at his sentencing on Wednesday, July 23. When the judge gave him the opportunity, Kohberger leaned into a microphone in front of him and said, "I respectfully decline." What was Bryan Kohberger plea deal? Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty on July 2 to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary in connection with the 2022 killings of four Idaho college students. As part of the plea deal, prosecutors agreed to take the death penalty off the table and instead requested four consecutive life sentences for the murders, plus 10 years for burglary. Who is Bryan Kohberger? Hometown, age, family, sisters Bryan Kohberger, 30, has a strong connection to Pennsylvania and graduated from Pleasant Valley High School in Broadheadsville, Pennsylvania and attended DeSales University in Center Valley. He was a Ph.D student at Washington State University at the time of the murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His parents, Michael and MaryAnn Kohberger, live in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania, where Kohberger was arrested. Kohberger has two sisters, Amanda and Melissa, the latter of whom reportedly worked as a therapist in New Jersey. What did Bryan Kohberger do? Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty on July 2, 2025 for the murders of Kaylee Gonclaves, 21; Madison Mogen, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20, who were students at the University of Idaho. The four were found stabbed to death in their rental house close to the University of Idaho campus in November 2022. Kohberger was arrested in December 2022 in Pennsylvania as the town of Moscow, near the University of Idaho's campus, remained on edge for weeks as a suspect was sought. Where is Bryan Kohberger in prison? Bryan Kohberger will be transferred into the custody of the Idaho Department of Corrections, where he'll undergo an evaluation to determine where he'll serve his sentences, a spokesperson told USA TODAY. Prior to sentencing, Kohberger has been held in the Ada County Jail, a maximum-security prison in Boise, Idaho. What was Bryan Kohberger defense? The defense team had previously tried but failed to have the death penalty stricken as a possible punishment and had argued that Bryan Kohberger's autism diagnosis made him less culpable. Kohberger had kept silent during his May 2023 arraignment when the judge asked for his plea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to CNN, Kohberger's lawyers tried but a judge rejected their attempt at presenting an "alternate perpetrator" theory, suggesting one of four other people committed the murders. What was Bryan Kohberger motive? Bryan Kohberger's motive for the murders still remains a mystery. The terms of the plea agreement did not require Kohberger explain his actions at his sentencing today, July 23. It has also remained unclear why the attacker spared two other roommates who were home at the time of the killings. Kohberger's lawyers have said he was on a "long drive" during the time the victims were slain. When were the Idaho college murders? Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Gonclaves, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle were found stabbed to death in their rental house close to the University of Idaho campus, in Moscow, on Nov. 13, 2022. Did Bryan Kohberger know the victims? Bryan Kohberger's defense attorneys said in a court filing that there is no connection between Kohberger and the victims, according to CBS News. However, Steve and Kristi Gonclaves, the parents of Kaylee Gonclaves, told "48 Hours" they had proof Kohberger was following their daughter and Maddie Mogen on Instagram. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based journalist with the Mid-Atlantic Connect Team. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bryan Kohberger sentence: Did Bryan Kohberger speak? Motive? Plea? BOISE, Idaho (AP) Bryan Kohberger has been sentenced to life in prison without parole in the brutal stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students nearly three years ago. Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to serve four life sentences, one for each murdered student, which will run consecutively. The defendant pleaded guilty early this month, just weeks before his trial was to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Wednesdays sentencing hearing gave the families of Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Kaylee Goncalves the opportunity to describe the anguish theyve felt since their loved ones were killed in the early morning hours of Nov. 13, 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This world was a better place with her in it, Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. A roommate who survived the attack, Bethany Funke, provided a statement that a friend read on her behalf in the courtroom. She described the day her four friends died as the worst day of my life, and I know it always will be. I slept in my parents room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Funke wrote. I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or Im about to lose someone else that I love. The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, Steve Goncalves said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Dylan Mortensen gets a hug after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Scott Laramie, stepfather of victim Madison Morgan speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Family are escorted into the Ada County Courthouse for the Bryan Kohberger sentencing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. (AP Photo/Drew Nash) Family are escorted into the Ada County Courthouse for the Bryan Kohberger sentencing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. (AP Photo/Drew Nash) Jazzmin Kernodle, sister of Xana Kernodle, arrives with her father Jeff Kernodle and others outside the Ada County Courthouse for the Bryan Kohberger sentencing Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. (AP Photo/Drew Nash) Kim Cheeley, grandmother of victim Madison Mogen speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Benjamin Mogen, father of Madison Mogen speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Kohberger broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, and Kohberger chose not to speak at the hearing. He remained expressionless as the testimony went on, and chose not to speak before his sentencing. Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, took the light they carried into each room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is a hollow vessel, something less than human, Mortenson said. A body without empathy, without remorse. Police initially had no suspects, and the killings terrified the normally quiet community in the small, western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. But investigators had a few critical clues. A knife sheath left near Mogens body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect, and accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings. He initially stood silent when asked to enter a plea, so a judge entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the investigation and the court case drew widespread attention. Discussion groups proliferated online, members eagerly sharing their theories and questions about the case. Some self-styled armchair web-sleuths pointed fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Misinformation spread, piling additional distress on the already-traumatized community. As the criminal case unfolded, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson announced that he would seek the death penalty if Kohberger was convicted. The court-defense team, led by attorney Anne Taylor, challenged the validity of the DNA evidence, unsuccessfully pushed to get theories about possible alternate perpetrators admitted in court, and repeatedly asked the judge to take the death penalty off of the table. But those efforts largely failed, and the evidence against Kohberger was strong. With an August trial looming, Kohberger reached a plea deal. Prosecutors agreed to drop their efforts to get a death sentence in exchange for Kohbergers guilty plea to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. Both sides agreed to a proposed sentence of four consecutive life sentences without parole, plus an additional 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger also waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. Kohbergers mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogens grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Families of the University of Idaho murder victims directly addressed the admitted killer, Bryan Kohberger, at his sentencing on Wednesday. One of the surviving roommates also gave an emotional statement, speaking out for the first time. Judge Steven Hippler acknowledged Kohberger's motive may never be known as he sentenced him to four consecutive life sentences on the four first-degree murder counts and the maximum penalty of 10 years on the burglary count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The students -- roommates Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle, and Kernodle's boyfriend, Ethan Chapin -- were stabbed to death at the girls' off-campus house on Nov. 13, 2022. On July 2, weeks before the trial was set to start, Kohberger pleaded guilty to all counts. As a part of the plea deal, the death penalty was taken off the table. Latest Developments Jul 23, 8:11 PM Kohberger liked to discuss criminal decision making and burglary type crimes: Classmate When investigators spoke with Bryan Kohberger's classmates at Washington State University, where he had been pursuing his Ph.D. in criminology, a fellow teaching assistant said he "considered Kohberger a friend," and that he was "very intelligent but also selfish," according to a report released by Moscow police on Wednesday. The friend said Kohberger "would often mislead him when it came to their shared work and would have [him] complete work meant for Kohberger, a report said. The two discussed "Kohberger wanting a girlfriend on many occasions," the TA said, according to the report. Kohberger also "liked to discuss his area of study which was criminal decision making and burglary type crimes, the report said. The student also told investigators "about some injuries he witnessed on Kohberger's face and hands," and while he was "unsure of the date," he thought he had noticed the injuries "on two separate occasions in October and November of 2022, the report said. One was a "large scratch on Kohberger's face which [the student] described as looking like the scratches from fingernails." The student "also saw wounds to Kohberger's knuckles on two separate occasions," and when he asked Kohberger what happened, he "replied he had been in a car accident, the report said. -ABC News Josh Margolin, Sasha Pezenik, Alyssa Pone, Matt Fuhrman and Connor Burton Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jul 23, 8:11 PM Police reports reveal gruesome crime scene Police reports released by Moscow police on Wednesday reveal how gruesome the crime scene was. Some of the victims were bathed in so much blood that officers at first could not sort out what additional injuries there might be, and their faces were so badly damaged they were unrecognizable, according to the police report. Blood was smeared on the walls and floors, a report said, and the coroner determined that a lot of force was used by the suspect. Xana Kernodle had over 50 stab wounds, mostly defensive, officials said, noting that an intense struggle had occurred. Kernodle's fatal injuries were stab wounds to her lung and heart, according to the coroner's report. According to the coroner's report, Ethan Chapin's "fatal injury was from a stab wound under his left clavicle which severed his subclavian vein and subclavian artery, and also his jugular vein was severed." The bodies of Kaylee Goncalves and Maddie Mogen were together in a bed covered in a pink blanket that was "covered in blood," a report said. There was a "large pool of blood" near Goncalves' midsection and blood spatters on the walls. The bodies were pale and rigid and appeared to have lost a lot of blood, a report said. "Madison appeared to be laying up against Kaylee. Madison had what appeared to be wounds to her forearm and hands, a report said. Madison had a gash under her right eye which appeared to go from the corner of her eye to her nose. Kaylee was unrecognizable as her facial structure was extremely damaged." They both suffered stab wounds to the liver and lung, the coroners report said. Goncalves also had two brain bleeds, a stab behind her clavicle which cut the vein and artery and injuries "connected with asphyxiation and blunt force trauma." -ABC News Josh Margolin, Sasha Pezenik, Alyssa Pone, Matt Fuhrman and Connor Burton Jul 23, 6:14 PM 'New information could come out still': Former police chief Despite Bryan Kohbergers confession, police said they still do not have a motive. James Fry, who was the Moscow police chief at the time of the murders, told ABC News after court that new information could come out still. Theres always cases that, you know, 10 years later, somebody says something, he said. Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse for his sentencing hearing on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. Moscow police on Wednesday began unsealing documents in connection with the case. As documents are released, Fry said, I think you will definitely find out some more stuff. Two roommates survived, including Dylan Mortensen, who told police she saw a man in a mask with bushy eyebrows in the house on the night of the murders. Asked why Mortensen may have been spared, Fry said there are a lot of theories, including that Kohberger may have been exhausted from the stabbings or he couldve felt hed been in the house too long. I dont know -- only he has that answer, Fry said. He should be ashamed of what he did, Fry said of Kohberger. He destroyed lives, families, communities. Changed everybody that ever worked that case. Its not human what happened, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jul 23, 2:59 PM No link between Kohberger and victims: Police Moscow police told reporters after court that they do not know which victim was the specific target. There was a reason that this particular house was chosen. What that reason is, we dont know, police added. Asked if there was evidence that Bryan Kohberger was following the victims social media, police said, Weve looked for a link and we have not found one. Police said they do not have a motive. Moscow police said they will release all police reports from the investigation. Asked by reporters why prosecutors did not ask that Kohberger provide more answers as a part of the plea deal, prosecutor Bill Thompson responded, The law does not give the court, or us, the power to require specific factual allocution. We could have said, Well, in order for us to move forward we want a factual allocution, Thompson said. But I have to be perfectly candid -- I don't believe that there is anything that would come out of his mouth that would be the truth. Jul 23, 2:16 PM White House says nation grieves with families White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt opened Wednesdays press briefing by addressing the victims families. We are so sorry for the grief and the pain you have experienced at the hands of such a vicious and evil killer. Our nation grieves with you, and we will never forget the precious souls who were lost in this horrific act of evil, Leavitt said. Leavitt also reiterated President Donald Trump's message from earlier this week that he wants Kohberger to reveal a motive. "If it were up to the president, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls," Leavitt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jul 23, 2:15 PM Kaylee Goncalves stabbed 34 times, family says The Goncalves family told ABC News after court that the details are more horrific than we can imagine. They said Kaylee Goncalves was stabbed 34 times and someone else was stabbed more times. Jul 23, 1:33 PM Judge: Focusing on motive gives Kohberger relevance he seeks Judge Steven Hippler called Bryan Kohberger a coward who slithered through the sliding glass door at 1122 King Road and now stands unmasked. This unfathomable and senseless act of evil has caused immeasurable pain and loss, Hippler said. No parent should ever have to bury their child. This is the greatest tragedy that can be inflicted upon a person. We are now certain who committed these unspeakable acts of evil, but what we dont know, and what we may never know, is why, he said. Hipper said he wants to know the motive, but that by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, and the spotlight, attention and power he appears to crave. Kyle Green/via Reuters - PHOTO: Bryan Kohberger, 30, appears for his sentencing hearing after he was convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four Idaho college students, at the Ada County Courthouse, in Boise, Idaho, July 23, 2025. Hipper said he cannot legally force Kohberger to speak, and said even if he did speak, theres no way to know if he would tell the truth. "Even in pleading guilty, he's giving nothing hinting of remorse or redemption," Hippler said, and said he will not speak of him further beyond sentencing him. Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four consecutive life sentences and 10 years for burglary. Kohberger appeared to try to speak to his mom before he was escorted from the courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jul 23, 1:26 PM Kohberger declines to address court After listening to statements from victims' families, Bryan Kohberger said in court, I respectfully decline to speak. Jul 23, 1:22 PM Prosecutor shows victims' photos as families weep Prosecutor Bill Thompson said in court that the discussion about the plea deal had to stay secret to avoid tampering potential jurors if the trial went forward. He said he respected the fact that some of the victims relatives did not agree with the plea deal. Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse for his sentencing hearing on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. As the families wept, Thompson displayed a photo of each victim in the courtroom. He listed each count and read the names of the victims: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. "From today forward, our memories should be focused on these innocent victims whose lives were taken," he said. The victims not only had their own families, and not just their friends and sororities and fraternities, "but this family," Thompson said, as he displayed the photo of the four victims and the two surviving roommates that was taken on Nov. 12, 2022, the day before the murders. You can see all six of these dynamic, vibrant, loving, special, innocent faces, taken together just across the street from their residence. And barely 12 hours before four of them would be brutally murdered in their sleep, Thompson said. As the photos were shown, Kohbergers sister sank lower in her chair and Kaylee Goncalves sister sat up straighter. Thompson said Kohberger will stand from his seat in belly chains and leg irons and will be taken into custody, where "the door will close behind him forever -- that is the closure that we seek. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jul 23, 1:06 PM Xana Kernodles stepfather: Go to hell Randy Davis, Xana Kernodles stepfather, addressed the other victims' families, saying this was likely the last time theyd all be in the same room. I love you all and I feel your pain, he said. To Bryan Kohberger, he said while shaking, Youre gonna go to hell youre evil ... you took our children you are gonna suffer, man. Go to hell, he concluded, as everyone clapped. Click here to read the rest of the blog. Drilling down, we find that APi splits its business into two broad segments, Safety Services and Specialty Services. Under the first category, APi supplies a wide range of services related to fire control and protection, including access control, emergency and exit lighting, hazard systems, fire alarm and detection systems, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, temperature scanning, and remote monitoring. The company also offers elevator and escalator services through this division, featuring contractual maintenance, modernization, inspections and testing, and on-demand repair. But those tasks cant be ignored, either, and the first stock were looking at here, APi Group, has made its own living providing exactly those services. APi is a professional services firm, providing life safety, security, and other specialty services for a varied enterprise customer base that spans a wide range of industries around the world. The business world is complex. Successful enterprises tend to focus on their core work, making sure to get that right, to make it profitable, to use it to build a loyal customer base. But in all of that, there are the daily tasks of mundane existence keeping up the building, maintaining the AC, bringing fire safety systems up to code and these tasks can divert attention from the core business. Weve used the TipRanks database to identify two momentum stocks that are gaining steam and that analysts say still have more room to run. Both are rated as Buys and are already up more than 40% this year. Lets take a closer look and see what else makes them compelling picks in todays market. Finding the best momentum stocks takes more than simply chasing sharp gains. The Wall Street analysts know this, which is why they look beyond the hype and trends to the underlying data from earnings reports and verified metrics to future projections and forecasts that support a stocks upward move. However, the law of gravity applies in the market just as it does in the physical world what goes up must eventually come down. The key to success in momentum investing is knowing when to sell and lock in gains, so youre not left standing when the music stops. Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Momentum investing is a perennial favorite strategy for stock investors after all, following the winners always sounds like a good idea. Momentum names are the stocks that started climbing and just kept going. Once that momentum kicks in, these stocks dont stop to wait for anything. Instead, they keep running on a combination of investor confidence and a prevailing trend. Story continues APi Groups Specialty Services are more varied, and include services in building infrastructure, HVAC, and parts fabrication. The company has specific expertise in electric and gas utilities, fiber optics, water and sewer systems, HVAC installations, building information and control systems, and piping and ventilation systems. The company set up its two-sided organization over the last few years, following its 2022 acquisition of the fire and security firm Chubb. That acquisition was valued at approximately $3.1 billion and brought the UK-based Chubb into APis fold, as one of the many top-tier partners under APis umbrella. When we turn to APis financial results, we find that the company last reported results for 1Q25, and beat the forecasts at both the top and bottom lines. The companys revenue, at $1.72 billion for the quarter, was $63.5 million better than expected and was up 7.5% year-over-year. APis bottom line, reported as a non-GAAP EPS of $0.37, was a penny better than the forecast and was up 8.8% from the prior-year period. We should note here that APG stock is up 45% so far this year. This momentum stock has caught the attention of JPMorgan analyst Tomohiko Sano, who sees potential in the companys addressable market and its fundamentals for expansion. Sano writes, APG has transitioned from a post-Chubb integration story to a streamlined operator with two focused platforms: Safety Services and Specialty Services. Firsthand discussions with site leaders and end customers during our visit revealed consistent messaging and operational discipline across the field. The market is fragmented against a TAM of $160B, and we expect multiple expansion with improvements in EBITDA margin driven by rising share and increased service revenue (aiming for 60%). We believe APGs platform strength is now more visible and more scalable than during our prior view While the stock has performed well year to date, we see further upside as fundamentals strengthen and the visibility into margin expansion and capital deployment improves. These comments back up the analysts Overweight (i.e., Buy) rating, while his $42 price target implies a one-year upside potential of 21%. (To watch Sanos track record, click here) There are 9 recent analyst reviews on APG shares, and they are unanimously positive to give the stock its Strong Buy consensus rating. The shares are currently priced at $34.68 and their $38.21 average target price indicates room for a 10% upside on the one-year horizon. (See APG stock forecast) National Fuel Gas Company (NFG) The second stock on our momentum list, National Fuel Gas Company, is a diversified energy firm with operations at all levels of the natural gas industry: upstream, midstream, and downstream. The company operates through four distinct business segments, each with its own focus on the gas sector: exploration & production, pipeline & storage, gathering, and utility. These business segments develop gas resources, move it to the tank farms, and then transfer it to the end-use customers. National Fuel is based in Williamsville, in western New York; its E&P activities are located in the Appalachian region of northwestern Pennsylvania, and its utility customer base, both residential and commercial, is located in adjacent regions of Pennsylvania and New York. Some numbers will show the scale of National Fuels business. The companys holdings for gas production total approximately 1.2 million net acres and generated 1.2 bcf per day, while its midstream network includes some 2,800 miles worth of pipelines. On the utility side, National Fuel boasts 755,000 customers. The company has a history of making strong investments to support and enhance the business; since 2010, National Fuel has put $2.9 billion into its midstream services, and over $1 billion into utility safety. Over the past several years, the US natural gas sector has been expanding, as industries seek to shift away from coal and into less expensive and cleaner-burning fuels. Natural gas offers advantages on both fronts, and in the past year National Fuel has been rising as well. The company jumped on that, and in 2020 spent over $500 million to acquire integrated upstream and midstream gathering assets in Pennsylvania from a Royal Dutch Shell subsidiary. More recently, the companys stock price is up, by 52% in the past 12 months and 48% for the year to date. National Fuel now has a market cap of just over $8 billion. Of interest to return-minded investors, National Fuel has a reliable dividend history, and in its last declaration, on June 12, the company instituted a 4% bump in the payment, for its 55th consecutive annual dividend increase. The current payment of 53.5 cents annualizes to $2.14 per common share and gives a forward yield of 2.4%. Looking at the companys earnings, we see that National Fuel brought in $729.95 million in revenue during its fiscal 2Q25. This was up 16% year over year, although it missed the forecast by $44.6 million. The company reported a non-GAAP EPS of $2.39, a figure that was 18 cents per share better than had been anticipated. Bank of America analyst Kalei Akamine likes NFG shares, and he writes of the companys recent past and likely prospects, saying, Since acquiring the Eastern Development Area from Shell in 2020, productivity has gotten increasingly better. Our review of recent data shows production tracking 2.6 bcf per thousand feet, 16% ahead of management expectations. We believe this enables a more capital efficient program through the end of the decade. Near term, we see better productivity and strip pricing supporting a strong guide for fiscal 2026, that will be provided with August results. Looking ahead, Akamine gives some additional reasons to buy into this stock, adding, While we note some regulatory risk that may be a headwind to new out of basin egress and operational risk in growing production in the EDA we believe that recent well data, the upstream development outlook, and federal regulatory support for new pipelines have tipped the risk/reward balance creating an attractive entry point. The BofA analyst goes on to put a Buy rating on NFG shares, which he supports with a $107 price objective, suggesting a 21% upside potential for the stock in the next 12 months. (To watch Akamines track record, click here) National Fuels shares have picked up 5 recent analyst reviews, and the 3-to-2 split favoring Buy over Hold gives the stock a Moderate Buy consensus rating. NFG is priced at $88.58, and its $96.25 average target price implies a 9% upside by this time next year. (See NFG stock forecast) To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment. Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue Bethany Funke, the University of Idaho student whose roommates were murdered by Bryan Kohberger, broke her silence for the first time at his sentencing hearing. She had her friend Emily Alandt deliver her victim impact statement at the hearing, discussing what it was like to live through "the worst day of my life." "I was scared the person who did this would come for me next," Funke wrote in her statement, which her friend read through tears. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Funke went on to say she had "not slept through a single night since this happened" and that she lives in constant fear that she may lose someone she loves. "The fear never really leaves," Funke said. She then said that despite all that, she has to keep living for her roommates. "Every day I remind myself to live for them," Funke said of her four roommates. Dylan Mortensen, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Bethany Funke On July 2, Kohberger appeared in a Boise courtroom where he confessed to killing those four students: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. Funke had previously said she did not wish to publicly appear at Kohberger's trial and tried to fight a subpoeana from his defense team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She and the other surviving roommate, Dylan Mortensen, both delivered victim impact statements at the hearing in Boise. It marked the first time the two have spoken publicly about the murders, for which Kohberger is expected top be sentenced to four life terms without the possibility of parole. AP Photo/Kyle Green 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. Funke slept through the massacre, waking up after the stabbings when she received a text from Mortensen. Both Mortensen and Funke discussed how "freaked out" they were about the lack of response from their other roommates, but as Funke said at the hearing, she assumed they would go upstairs the next day and be mocked by their roommates for being "scaredy cats." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mortensen eventually joined Funke in her bedroom that night and the two locked themselves in the room and spent the next eight hours texting their roommates. It was not until around noon that they eventually went upstairs to discover their roommates were dead. The identities of both roommates had remained a secret until the hearing today, with the pair simply referred to as D.M. and B.F. in court filings. Read the original article on People Originally appeared on E! Online Nearly three years after the Idaho murders, Bryan Kohberger is remaining silent. Before the 30-year-old was formally sentenced for killing University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle in an off-campus home in November 2022, he told Judge Steven Hippler he respectfully declined to speak. Upon hearing this, a family member of one of the victims, said, per NBC News, Surprise, surprise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Judge Hippler also expressed disdain toward Kohberger, calling him the worst of the worst. Even in pleading guilty, he has given nothing hinting at remorse or redemption, nothing suggesting a recognition, an understanding or even a regret for the pain that he has caused, the judge said before sentencing Kohberger. Therefore I will not attempt to speak about him further other than to simply sentencing him." Kohberger was given a life sentenceto be served consecutivelywithout the possibility of parole for each count of his four counts of first-degree murder, accompanied with a $50,000 fine for each count and a $5,000 civil penalty to be paid to the families of the victims. He was also sentenced to 10 years and imposed a fine of $50,000 on the count of burglary. More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid his sentencing, family members of several of the victims made statements to the court, as well as surviving roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke. Earlier this month, Kohberger signed a confession to all four killings of students, as well as one count of burglary, just days after accepting a plea deal that removed the death penalty as a possible sentence in exchange for the inability to appeal or ask for a more lenient punishment. In his confession, the former criminology student chose to hereby admit responsibility for the killing and murder of the four victims, with the crimes characterized as willful, unlawful, deliberate, with premeditation and with malice aforethought. He also admitted guilt to committing burglary by unlawfully entering the residence where the students murders took place. Following news of his plea deal, the families of the four victims expressed mixed feelings. Chapins family, including his parents Jim Chapin and Stacy Chapin, shared relief that the nearly three-year legal proceedings had finally come to an end. Zach Wilkinson-Pool/Getty Images Hes going to get whats coming to him, Chapins father told NBC News July 14. Hes off the streets. He cant hurt any more kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chapins mother, for her part, agreed, though admitted it took a while for she and her husbandas well as their remaining children, Chapins 22-year-old triplet siblings Hunter and Maizieto come to terms with it all, especially considering the gruesome nature of the college students deaths. Our initial response was like, an eye for an eye, she added. But weve spent a ton of time talking about it with prosecutors, and for us, we always felt like this was a better deal. He gets put away, and theres no appeal system to it. And there were so many kids, including our own, that had been subpoenaed that no longer have this hanging over their heads. Meanwhile, the Goncalves family were disappointed in the Idaho legal systems decision, saying it had failed their family after Kohbergers plea deal was announced. Indeed, Goncalves parents, Kristi Goncalves and Steve Goncalves, admitted they had hoped to send a message when Kohbergers case went to trial. Zach Wilkinson-Pool/Getty Images If you come after kids, people are going to put their foot down, Goncalves father said during an appearance on Today July 18, and theyre going to do everything in their power to make sure that whoever did that it held to the highest accountability that there is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the Goncalves family is trying to continue to move forward. Were just trying to wrap our heads around this new development, her father added. Were still a family, we still have to take care of ourselves. Were moving on. Although it might not have been the ideal outcome for everyone hurt by Kohbergers actions, the victims families are finally getting some closure. Keep reading for a look back at how Kohberger's case unfolded Who Were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were University of Idaho students who lived in an off-campus apartment. On Nov. 12, 2022the night before their bodies were foundGoncalves and Mogen were at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin were at the latters fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on Nov. 13, the four roommates and Chapin were back at the three-story rental house. Goncalves was a senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. She was expected to graduate in December before heading to Austin, Texas, for a job at a marketing firm, her friend Jordyn Quesnell told The New York Times. Mogen, who was studying marketing, was best friends with Goncalves since the sixth grade. She had plans to move to Boise after graduation, family friend Jessie Frost shared with The Idaho Statesman. Kernodle was a junior majoring in marketing, the University said at the time. She and Chapinwho majored in recreation, sport and tourism managementhad been dating since the spring, the roommates neighbor Ellie McKnight told NBC News. Were There Any Survivors? Two roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, had been home at the time of the murders. In text messages that were unsealed March 6, 2025, Mortensen and Funke tried contacting their roommates on Nov. 13 after the former saw a masked man moving through the house, according to documents obtained by E! News. "No one is answering," Mortensen texted Funke at 4:22 a.m. "I'm rlly confused rn." She continued to reach out to their roommates, urging them to respond. "Pls answer," she texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m. and again at 10:23 a.m. "R u up??" At 11:58 a.m., a 911 call was placed after Kernodle was found unresponsive, per an additional motion obtained by E! News. A woman named A1 in the transcript described the current situation to the operator. "One of the roommates who's passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up," she said on the phone. "They saw some man in their house last night." Who Is Bryan Kohberger and How Was He Found? Bryan Kohberger, who was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, was a doctoral candidate at Washington State University. Over one month after the bodies of Gonclaves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were discovered, Kohberger was taken into custody Dec. 30 in Monroe County, Penn. He was extradited to Idaho Jan. 4, 2023. As for how authorities connected him to the killings? DNA was found on a knife sheath that was left at the crime scene, prosecutors revealed in June 2023 court documents, per NBC News. When the DNA didn't match anyone in the FBI database, authorities ran the DNA through public ancestry websites to create a list of potential suspects, according to the filings. After learning that Kohberger had driven to his parents' home in Monroe County, local officials then went through their trash and found DNA that tied him to that found on the sheath. What Was Kohbergers Initial Defense? At the moment, a motive for the attack has not been detailed and a gag order prevents many involved in the case from speaking publicly, NBC News reported. However, the unsealed documents provided some insight into their initial arguments. Kohberger's attorneys argued in a motion obtained by E! News to strike the death penalty that Kohbergerwho initially faced death penalty if found guilty on all countshas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that executing him would violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on "cruel and unusual punishment." His defense argued that Kohbereger "displays extremely rigid thinking, perseverates on specific topics, processes information on a piecemeal basis, struggles to plan ahead, and demonstrates little insight into his own behaviors and emotions." "Due to his ASD, Mr. Kohberger simply cannot comport himself in a manner that aligns with societal expectations of normalcy," the motion said. "This creates an unconscionable risk that he will be executed because of his disability rather than his culpability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where Was the Trial Set? Initially, Kohberger had a judge enter a not-guilty plea to the first-degree murder charges on his behalf after remaining silent at his May 2023 arraignment. Although his trial was set to begin Oct. 2, 2023, Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial in August 2023. His trial datewhich was scheduled to take place in Ada County, more than 300 miles from Latah County, where the killings took placewas set to begin Aug. 11, 2025. Latah County Judge John Judge previously ruled in favor of the transfer request made by Kohberger's defense in September 2024 based on "presumed prejudice" if the trial remained in Latah County. Ada County Judge Steven Hippler denied the defense's request to suppress key DNA and other evidence, including cell phone and email records, surveillance footage, past Amazon purchases and DNA evidence in the trial. What Was the Verdict in the Trial? Kohberger's murder trial was abruptly canceled after he took a plea deal from prosecutors on June 30, 2025. In accepting the deal, Kohberger agreed to plead guilty to four counts of murder and one count of burglary, as well as waive his rights to appeal and ask for a more lenient prison sentence. He entered his guilty plea on July 2, 2025, confirming with a "yes" after the judge asked if he killed all four victims "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought." Did Kohberger Take a Selfie After the Murders? A selfie Kohberger took the morning after the murders took place was introduced in March 2025. The photograph, which sees him in front of a shower showing a thumbs up, displays how he may fit the description a witness identified as "D.M." gave in filings, who said the perpetrator had "bushy eyebrows." Steve Gonclaves, the father of victim Kaylee, later reacted to the image calling it a "trophy" in an interview with Fox and Friends. "I know the timeline, I know that he had just returned to the crime scene and he had come back," Gonclaves said. "He had realized that nobody had called 911." As he put it, "To him, thats his little trophy to let him know like, Hey, I got away with it, nobodys on me. What Did Kohberger Google Before the Murders? In a 2025 Dateline documentary about the murders, a former classmate of Kohbergers detailed a peculiar text she received from him after making his acquaintance at a party. I definitely felt a little obligated to chat with him, because to me, he seemed a little awkward, the studentidentified as Hollyexplained. Kind of like you might expect for a PhD student who didn't know anyone at the party and was maybe trying his best to kind of get out there and be social and make friends. The following day, Holly said she received a text from him, which she described as overly formal. Hey, I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday, Bryans text from July 10, 2022 at 1:19 p.m., read, per Dateline. I really enjoy that activity, so please let me know. Thanks! Elsewhere in the Dateline documentary, Kohbergers browsing history was found to have included searches for Ted Bundy, Britney Spears song Criminal, and the term University of Idaho Murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Bryan Kohberger, the man who killed four University of Idaho students when he broke into their off-campus home and stabbed them to death, was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences with no possibility for parole or appeal. This was part of a plea deal Kohberger entered on July 2, taking the death penalty off the table. Per Idaho Code, anyone found guilty of first-degree murder will be punished by death or by imprisonment for life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Kohberger has avoided the death penalty, he will likely be serving his sentence at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution (IMSI) in Kuna-- the states only maximum security prison. According to the Idaho Statesman, the prison has garnered criticism for its harsh treatment of inmates in solitary confinement and for its poor conditions, driving prisoners to organize a mass six-day hunger strike last year in protest of the facility, the Idaho Statesman reported. Among the 90 inmates who participated in the strike, some complained about delays in access to medical care, long bouts of isolation and recreational cages, the newspaper reported. The paper reported that the Idaho Department of Corrections (IDOC) made changes after the strike, but a prison official also added that privileges for inmates depend on their behavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Kohberger is sentenced to serve time here, he will also be behind bars with Idahos eight male death row inmates. Chad Daybell, convicted for the deaths of his first wife and his second wifes two children, was the most recent person to join death row at IMSI. Gerald Pizzuto has been on death row in Idaho the longest- since 1986- for beating two people to death. According to the Idaho Department of Corrections, there have been 29 executions carried out in the state since 1864- only three people have been executed since 1976. After Kohbergers plea was announced, there was some pushback online, with people pointing out that Kohberger had killed more people than anyone on death row in the state. (NewsNation) As Bryan Kohberger awaits sentencing Wednesday for the fatal stabbings of four University of Idaho students in 2022, his life could become even more solitary. NewsNation spoke with Kevin Corson, the owner of Idaho Bonding Company, regarding the treatment Bryan Kohberger may face should he be sent to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, the states only maximum security prison. According to Corson, it houses the most dangerous criminals in Idaho, and Kohberger should expect an extremely restricted lifestyle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Life is going to be a little more harsh than what it was in the Ada County Jail when he was there, Corson said. Inside prison where Bryan Kohberger could spend rest of his life Hes going to have to be segregated; as you may know, people in prison dont like people who hurt women or children, and hes hurt women. And thats not something that the inmates there take lightly. Its something that is definitely going to put a target on his back. Should Kohberger be sent to the supermax prison, he could end up in long-term, restricted housing and whats known as closed and protective custody. This type of housing is meant for prisoners who could be hurt by inmates in general population, or who could hurt others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those inmates spend 23 hours a day inside their cells, with food and water fed through doors into their cells. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Alivea Goncalves dubbed Bryan Kohberger a sociopath, psychopath, murderer in a fiery victim impact statement as he awaited his sentencing for the brutal slayings of the Idaho Four. Ethan Chapin, 20, Xana Kernodle, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were discovered dead in their shared Idaho home on November 13, 2022. More than two years later, Kohberger pleaded guilty to their murders as a part of a plea deal. The truth is, youre basic, Alivea told Kohberger, 30, directly in court on Wednesday, July 23. Let me be very clear: Dont ever try to convince yourself you matter just because someone finally said your name out loud. I see through you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You want the truth? Heres the one youll hate the most. If you hadnt attacked them in their sleep, in the middle of the night, like a pedophile, Kaylee wouldve kicked your f**king ass, she said, sparking applause in the courtroom, per CNN. In his own impact statement, Kaylees father, Steve Goncalves, took shots at Kohbergers intelligence. Police officers tell us within minutes they had your DNA. Like a calling card, he shared. You were that careless. That foolish. That stupid. Master degree? Youre a joke. Complete joke. Madisons father, Ben Mogen, heartbreakingly confessed that hed struggled with addiction in his past and his daughter was what kept him from just not caring anymore when he wasnt wanting to live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maddie was my only child that I ever had. She was the only great thing I ever really did, he said. And only thing I was ever really proud of. Xanas mother, Cara Northington, refused to share recollections of her late daughter in court, telling Kohberger: You dont deserve our good memories that we have. Her stepfather, Randy Davis, called Kohberger evil and said he was going to suffer for what he did. Im shaking because I want to reach out to you, he continued. I hope you feel my energy. Okay? Go to hell. Elsewhere in the sentencing hearing, Bethany Funke one of the roommates who survived the attack said she still thinks about the murders every day in a statement read in court by a friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hated and still hate that theyre gone, but for some reason, I am still here and I got to live, her statement said. Why me? Why did I get to live, and not them? Kohberger was sentenced to serve four consecutive life sentences in prison for the murders. Bryan Kohberger - Credit: AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to murdering four University of Idaho students in November 2022. Kohberger accepted the plea deal earlier this month, copping to four counts of first-degree murder and an additional count of burglary. As part of the deal, Kohberger avoided the death penalty. A letter previously sent to the families of the four victims regarding the deal stated that Kohberger would be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences and would waive all right to appeal. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The time has now come to end Mr. Kohbergers 15 minutes of fame, Judge Steven Hippler said before handing down the sentence Wednesday that would forever remove [Kohberger] from civilized society. Hippler told Kohberger that he had 40 days to file an appeal, but warned that doing so would nullify the plea agreement. The hearing Wednesday also featured emotional testimony from the families of the victims: Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. One by one, members from all four families scolded, berated, and lashed out at Kohberger, who sat motionless and unemotional through the parade of testimony. The scariest part about you is how average you turned out to be, a sister of one of the victims told Kohberger. Goncalves mother told the pathetic Kohberger, I never imagined having to speak to someone so devoid of emotion. She continued, Your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival youll get the human touch you so desperately desired You may have gotten As in high school and college, but youre gonna be getting big Ds in prison. Bethany Funke, a roommate who was in the house during the murders but was not attacked by Kohberger, provided her first statement about the worst day of my life, as read by her friend Emily. I was scared the person who did this would come for me next, Funkes statement said, adding she had not slept through a single night since this happened The fear never really leaves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the impact statements, prosecutor Bill Thompson explained the states logic behind reaching a plea deal with Kohberger, and asked the judge to give Kohberger a fixed life sentence for each of the four murders, to be served consecutively, back-to-back, Thompson explained. Kohberger, in his lone moment of addressing the court, respectfully declined to make a statement on his own behalf. Kohberger stabbed Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle, and Chapin to death in their off-campus apartment on Nov. 13, 2022. After a lengthy manhunt, Kohberger was finally arrested on Dec. 30, with the suspect linked to the crime through DNA evidence found on a knife sheath. In May 2023, Kohberger was indicted by a grand jury on murder charges. At the time, the judge entered not guilty pleas on Kohbergers behalf after he chose to stand silent rather than enter a plea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the next several years, the biggest developments in the case were largely procedural. Kohbergers efforts to get the case dismissed were rebuffed in October 2023. In 2024, the judge agreed to move the trial out of Latah County, where the University of Idaho is located, to Boise, as part of an effort to diminish the possibility of a prejudicial jury. Earlier this year, Kohbergers lawyers turned their attention to getting the death penalty off the table. Prosecutors had signaled their intent to seek capital punishment early on, and Kohbergers defense tried to argue that a recent autism diagnosis would make the death penalty constitute cruel and unusual punishment. A judge, however, rejected that argument in late April. Kohberger accepted his plea deal just a few months later. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. (NewsNation) The family of Ethan Chapin, one of the four Idaho college students murdered in an off-campus home by Bryan Kohberger, will not be making a victim impact statement at his sentencing hearing Wednesday. The family had previously said they were content with the plea deal prosecutors made with Kohberger earlier this month. Kohberger agreed to serve four life sentences for the 2022 murders of Chapin, along with Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle. Jim and Stacy Chapin, the parents of Ethan Chapin, said they finally have closure with the plea deal, in an interview with the Today Show last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Live: Bryan Kohberger to be sentenced for Idaho murders If I could physically do a handstand at that time, I would probably do one, because I am so ready for it to be done, Jim Chapin said of the moment he found out about the plea deal. His wife, Stacy, said, There were so many kids, including our own, that had been subpoenaed that no longer have this hanging over their heads. I mean, we just all get to go live our life. The Goncalves family opposed the deal, saying it was secretive and hurried, and are expected to make a statement in court. The Chapin family appears to be the only one to publicly announce that they will not attend Kohbergers sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Frontier Airlines revealed a 15-route expansion on Tuesday, spanning large parts of the country. The low-cost airline will fly to two new cities in Texas and Virginia this fall. The budget carrier is launching nonstop service from Richmond International Airport in Virginia and Corpus Christi International Airport in Texas. Additionally, the airline will stop in Tulsa, Oklahoma for the first time in three years. Frontier Airline's new routes will see more stops in Texas, New York, Chicago, Missouri and its home base at Denver International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With new destinations in Texas and Virginia, our return to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and new routes between several of our top cities, now is a better time than ever for consumers to give Frontier a try," said Josh Flyr, the airline's vice president of network and operations design. Related: Budget Airline Eyes Big Upgrade Demanded by Customers Frontier's 15 new routes will launch in mid-October. The first route to launch will be on October 7, between Newark Liberty International Airport and Chicago's Midway International Airport, flying four times weekly. Other routes will run twice weekly, such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Omaha's Eppley Airfield, Charleston International Airport to Dallas Forth Worth International Airport, and Salt Lake City International Airport to Santa Ana's John Wayne Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denver International Airport gained the most in Frontier's new expansion, with four new routes overall. Most of the 15 routes announced are entirely new for Frontier. While the airline did not announce any cuts or route cancellations, some are concerned about the bottom line. Frontier's total departures will be down by more than 11% in August and September, compared to the same time last year. Related: Budget Airline Plane Makes Emergency Landing After Flames Shoot From Engine Mid-Flight Budget Airline Announces 15-Route, Multi-City Expansion Launching This Year first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 22, 2025 By Nazrin Abdul Diplomatic ties between Azerbaijan and Israel are set to strengthen further in the coming years, said outgoing Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan, George Deek, as he concluded his mission in Baku. Azernews reports that Ambassador Deek made the remarks following his farewell meeting with Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov. Today I had the honor of meeting with Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov for a farewell conversation as I conclude my mission as Israels ambassador, Deek wrote on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. The Israeli Diplomat noted that he expressed his deep gratitude to Jeyhun Bayramov and the MFA team for their cooperation, trust, and friendship over the past six years. He highlighted a key milestone in the two countries relations: the opening of Azerbaijans embassy in Israel in 2023, calling it a historic and symbolic step that underscored the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations. ""A milestone moment in our journey was the opening of Azerbaijans embassy in Israel in 2023a historic step that reflects the growing depth of our partnership. As I take my leave, I carry with me not only memories but also hope: that our relations will continue to grow, and that peace will prevailin the Middle East, the South Caucasus, and beyond," Deek added. Ambassador George Deeks tenure saw significant growth in bilateral cooperation, including in areas such as defense, technology, energy, and people-to-people diplomacy. His departure marks the end of a dynamic chapter in AzerbaijanIsrael relations, with both sides committed to building on the momentum in the years ahead. Key Points C3.ai's strong growth in the AI software market could be undervalued. Shares of Marvell Technology are trading at a cheap valuation ahead of a monster data center opportunity. 10 stocks we like better than C3.ai The artificial intelligence (AI) opportunity could help many investors meet or exceed their retirement goals. AI is impacting every industry as it promises to speed up innovation and labor productivity. This could add trillions to the economy, according to PwC. Here are two AI stocks to consider buying on the dip. Image source: Getty Images. 1. C3.ai Palantir Technologies is the star of AI software right now. But the AI opportunity is much bigger than one company. This is evident when you look at the accelerating growth of Palantir's smaller rival C3.ai (NYSE: AI). While C3.ai doesn't have the scale or profitability of Palantir, its revenue growth could lift the stock higher. C3.ai's revenue grew 26% year over year in the most recent quarter, an improvement from virtually zero growth in the same quarter two years ago. C3.ai will benefit from its new partnership with Microsoft, which will significantly expand its sales force to reach more customers worldwide. C3.ai's solutions are available on all the leading cloud platforms. In the last quarter, it closed 59 agreements through its partners. The U.S. military is adopting more AI technology, which is benefiting the company. Over the past year, C3.ai closed 51 agreements with the federal government. The U.S. Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office raised its contract ceiling with C3.ai to $450 million, up from the initial ceiling of $100 million. These deals highlight the competitive strengths of C3.ai's AI applications. C3.ai's software is good at predictions and forecasts that can detect potential points of failure, while Palantir excels when it can take a large amount of unorganized data and make sense of it to facilitate better decision-making. Their different strengths mean both companies can deliver returns for their shareholders. The enterprise AI opportunity -- essentially, using AI to help companies draw insights and make decisions -- is going to stretch into the trillions over the long term, and C3.ai will get its piece. Market researcher McKinsey reports the market for AI software and services was $85 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach a range of $1.5 trillion to $4.6 trillion by 2040. C3.ai stock reached a high of $45 last year before selling off to its current share price of $28. That brings its price-to-sales (P/S) multiple down to 9. Since the end of 2022, the stock has traded at a P/S multiple ranging from 4 to 19. LEWISBURG, WV (WVNS) A new business opened up in downtown Lewisburg. If you decide to stop by, you are promised a gem of a time. Rootelated Gems and Minerals opened last week to the joy of husband and wife Chris and Sydney Stevens. The duo first connected from their shared love of gems and minerals. Over the years, both traveled the country and collected hundreds of stones. You can now find their collection on display at the shop along with hand made jewelry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BEX Art Festival to return to Downtown Beckley Sydney has family ties to the state given she was born in Beckley and attended Concord University. For her, this is a dream come true. I actually had a lady in here the other day who was a teacher in Egypt. Her and her husband had dug rocks from all over the country but specifically in the San Diego area. They were a real treat to talk to hear their stories and about their travels around rocks as well. Sydney Stevens, co-owner of Rootelated Gems and Minerals They are opened Monday and then Wednesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.. They are also opened on Sunday from noon to 5 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 WVNS. The News An unexpected thaw between Cote dIvoires ruling coalition and a key opposition movement has disrupted the countrys political landscape, three months ahead of closely watched presidential elections, raising the prospect of prolonged instability in Francophone West Africas biggest economy. Last Wednesday a delegation of government ministers paid a first-of-its-kind visit to former First Lady Simone Gbagbo, who on July 5 announced her candidacy for Octobers presidential vote. The meeting in Abidjan came on the same day President Alassane Ouattara met French President Emanual Macron for an informal lunch in Paris, reportedly to discuss the upcoming elections. The presidential vote has raised global concern about fairness after leading opposition candidate Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, was barred from running. Ouattara, 83, has yet to say if hell seek a fourth five-year term and even if he does, some doubt he could complete it. The resulting uncertainty has left the countrys political and business classes jockeying for influence in anticipation of a possible power vacuum. Know More The shifting alliances in Ivorian politics were underscored by the widely circulated images of Cisse Bacongo, minister-governor of Abidjan and secretary general of Ouattaras ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party, embracing Simone Gbagbo. Also at the meeting was Charles Ble Goude, a former minister who, along with Simones ex-husband former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo was in 2019 acquitted at The Hague of crimes against humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a very tense moment, Stanislas Zeze, head of Abidjan-based Bloomfield Investment, told Semafor. Most business decisions and investments have stalled. The economy can absorb short-term shocks, but unlike Nigeria, Morocco, or South Africa where local capital drives growth Cote dIvoire depends heavily on multinationals. Any long-term instability could be devastating. Zeze said the July 16 meeting showed a willingness to address key issues such as inclusivity in the election, revising the voter roll, and reforming the electoral commission, which many see as biased. Nothing concrete yet, but it suggests the president is ready to give some ground, he told Semafor. Joels view What many forget is that Ouattara is first and foremost an economist with a cold, calculating view of power. Since the 2020 death of his chosen successor, Amadou Gon Coulibaly, forced him into a third term he hadnt planned, hes been unimpressed by the bench behind him. We do not want unrealistic programs, he wrote during his time as an International Monetary Fund official. We want programs that can be financed and have political support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His track record speaks to that mindset: Cote dIvoires GDP more than doubled under his watch, from $35 billion when he took office in 2010 to $87 billion last year more than the combined output of Cameroon and Senegal, the other Francophone powerhouses. For the ruling party, that success alone, as National Assembly President Adama Bictogo put it, is justification enough: President Ouattara has structurally transformed the Ivorian economy. But that hasnt stopped the power scramble either in anticipation of Ouattara stepping aside or of him not finishing another term. The July 16 meeting was just one expression of that. Simone Gbagbo and Laurent Gbagbo, once the inseparable power couple of Ivorian politics, divorced in 2021. Simone has since forged her own political party, the left-wing Movement of Capable Generations (MGC), while Laurent has now allied with the former ruling center-right PDCI, in power from 1960 to 1999. In a clear sign of the tumultuous state of Ivorian politics, the PDCI led by former banker Thiam in March joined the Coalition for Peaceful Alternation, together with Simone Gbagbos MGC and Ble Goudes own party. But in June, Thiam, now barred from running for the presidential election, announced the formation of a common front with Laurent Gbagbos African Peoples Party Cote dIvoire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear what has been discussed at Wednesdays meeting between former rivals, but the talks alone mark a seismic shift in a nation previously riven by deep political factions. Whats emerging is a reengineering of the 2010 and 2015 coalition which, back then, was led by Ouattara and the PDCI against Laurent Gbagbo. But this time Ouattara is the target, and Simone Gbagbo is in the mix. Room for Disagreement Not everyone is impressed by the ruling coalitions steps towards the opposition. We now have two heavyweights of Ivorian politics President Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam speaking with one voice, Ignace Guei, a pro-Laurent and Gbagbo opposition MP, told Semafor. But on crucial points wealth-sharing, democratic transparency, and real economic development President Ouattaras record hasnt met expectations. Even within the ruling coalition, cracks are showing. While the partys secretary general was cozying up to the opposition, the National Assembly president was publicly anticipating Ouattaras decision to run again irking both the vice president and the prime minister, as well as former Prime Minister Patrick Achi and Defense Minister Brahim Ouattara, the presidents brother, who have all voiced their displeasure in political circles. So far, Ouattara has remained silent. Notable (CANON CITY, Colo) The Canon City Police Department (CCPD) is alerting the community of a person deemed a Sexually Violent Predator who is living in the Canon City area. CCPD sent a notification on Wednesday, July 23, that 66-year-old Robert William Stewart is homeless in the Canon City area. According to CCPD, on Sept. 4, 2014, Stewart was convicted of three counts of Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child. Robert William Stewart, Courtesy: Canon City Police Department CCPD said the information is being provided to the public, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statute 16-22-111. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any action taken by you towards a registered sex offender, including vandalism of property, verbal or written threats of harm, or physical assault against this person, his or her family or employer, can result in your arrest and prosecution, writes CCPD. You must contact the Canon City Police Department or Fremont County Sheriffs Office immediately if you believe a crime is being, or will be, committed. CCPD is encouraging the public to have open, honest, communication with their children about this issue and to remember the following: Avoid scary details Use language that is honest and age-appropriate Teach them not to harass or visit the offenders location, home, or yard Teach them to tell a safe adult if anyone acts inappropriately towards them (creepy, too friendly, threatening, etc.). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. 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 an emergency, please call 911 immediately. PROVIDENCE, Utah (ABC4) A Cache County woman was resuscitated by emergency medical workers after a man she was dating allegedly strangled her. Jerry Alan Young, 56, was arrested Tuesday afternoon on one felony charge of aggravated assault after a woman he was allegedly dating was found without a pulse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Young called 911 just after 2 a.m. on June 14, 2025. In the phone call, Young tells emergency responders that the woman had a heart attack or something. When deputies with the Cache County Sheriffs Office arrived on scene, the woman was unconscious and not breathing. Emergency medical personnel immediately performed CPR and were able to reestablish a pulse. The woman was immediately transported to the hospital. EXCLUSIVE: Musicians murder still unsolved after 25 years family mourns on the anniversary of the killing Deputies say they found a red mark around her neck that was consistent with being strangled. Medical staff told police they also found a necklace that was embedded in her neck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Young was detained on scene due to strange and aggressive behavior. Court documents say he was trying to get passed deputies while medical personnel were trying to perform CPR. Police found blood on the back of Youngs shirt as well as abrasions on his right leg and knee. Young also told officers the two were engaged in sexual activity. The woman would later gain consciousness and be admitted to the ICU, where police were able to speak with her. She soon began showing signs of memory loss, like asking repetitive questions and forgetting why she was in the hospital. It was the worst thing Ive ever seen in real life: Neighbor attempts daring rescue in deadly West Jordan house fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police, the woman had met Young six weeks ago on Facebook dating. Officers found text messages from five days earlier between Young and the woman that indicated he had been dating another woman. The woman allegedly responded, saying that she felt like she was being groomed to accept the other woman as a third counterpart to their relationship. The two didnt speak for a few days before they agreed to meet up at Youngs house in Providence. Young appeared in court Wednesday afternoon and is currently being held at the Cache County Jail without bail. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) The Caddo Parish Coroners Office is honoring the life and legacy of what they believe to be the oldest citizen in Caddo Parish. Mable Caplis Smith, also known as Big Mama, Mama Mable, and Mamo, passed away on Saturday, July 5, at the age of 111. Born in 1914 in Taylortown, Bossier Parish, she entered the world the same year World War I began. Her obituary describes her life as a powerful testament to resilience, strength, and unwavering faith. Like many others in Shreveport, Smith was seen as a pillar of her community. Louisiana native Josh Johnson to host The Daily Show on Comedy Central Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While living in Shreveport, Smith married her late husband, Leroy Smith Sr. Together, they had three children. Her obituary highlights how her family grew to encompass five generations, including 22 grandchildren, 80 great-grandchildren, over 136 great-great-grandchildren, and more than 22 great-great-great-grandchildren. Smith was a member of the Living Hope of New Zion Baptist Church in Shreveport. In addition to being a wife, mother, and active church member, Mrs. Smith also dedicated most of her life to her work. She held various positions, including work at Ochsner LSU Health Hospital, and also served as a server and line cook in the hospitals cafeteria before retiring in 1974. To quote Washingtons & Smiths funeral home, Mables inspiring spirit, fierce determination, and zest for life will continue to resonate through the countless lives she touched. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 man accused of intentionally driving his car through a crowd outside of a Los Angeles club last weekend has been charged with 37 counts of attempted murder, authorities announced this week. On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office announced the official charges against Fernando Ramirez, who was arrested last Saturday after officials claim he intentionally drove his car through a crowd of people gathered outside The Vermont music venue in Los Angeles around 2 a.m. local time. L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said Ramirez, 29, would also face 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon. The number of charges 37 relates to the number of victims, according to Hochman, who alleged that Ramirez injured dozens when he rammed through the crowd. Some victims were critically injured, according to the official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients were transported to local hospitals with injuries ranging from minor abrasions to serious fractures and lacerations to broken bones, officials said. AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes Vehicle crashed outside of The Vermont music venue in Los Angeles on Saturday morning Vehicle crashed outside of The Vermont music venue in Los Angeles on Saturday morning The defendants brazen and destructive actions, as alleged in the criminal complaint, have caused unimaginable harm to dozens of innocent people, Hochman said in a press release announcing the charges. This is a heinous act that left dozens injured, and while the allegations will be tested in court, the impact on the victims is undeniable. Our thoughts are with them and their loved ones as they begin the long road to recovery." 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. AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes Law enforcement investigates the scene outside of The Vermont music venue in Los Angeles Law enforcement investigates the scene outside of The Vermont music venue in Los Angeles Authorities alleged that on the night of the incident, Ramirez was out on bail from another unrelated criminal case having to do with a domestic violence charge in Orange County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramirez is now being held without bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday. The San Clemente, Calif., native faces multiple life sentences in state prison if hes convicted, authorities announced. Read the original article on People FREMONT, Calif. (KRON) The California Department of Motor Vehicles is arguing before an administrative judge in Oakland that Tesla has misled drivers by exaggerating the capabilities of its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features. The DMV is seeking to ban the Elon Musk-led automaker from selling cars in the state for 30 days. The DMV is accusing Tesla of false advertising. A court filing claims even the feature names Autopilot and Full Self-Driving are misleading because they offer just partial self-driving. Tesla robotaxi service coming to Bay Area in a month or two, according to Musk Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has been warned by federal regulators to stop claiming his cars can drive themselves because it could cause drivers to depend on the system. Tesla has faced a slew of lawsuits over its Autopilot system over the past five years. Each of them has either been dismissed or settled out of court. In 2023, Tesla had to recall more than 2 million cars for Autopilot problems. The company is being investigated for claiming it fixed the problem. Court hearings in Oakland are expected to continue through Thursday. 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 KRON4. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) A California law that some lawmakers blame for higher pork prices across the country was in the spotlight on Capitol Hill. A California law to prevent pigs from being too closely confined is having costly consequences for the rest of the country opponents of Proposition 12 told lawmakers Wednesday. Widespread adoption of Prop 12 like measures would almost certainly hasten the closing of doors for small and medium-sized farms, said National Pork Producers Council Economist Holly Cook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Proposition 12 mandates pigs in California have a certain amount of space to move around and any meat products sold in California must follow that standard, too. 40% of the hogs come out of Iowa and yet we are bound by a state that is one tenth of 1% of the hogs. How egregious is that? asked Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa.). Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra says the law has raised costs for farmers to comply, led to pricier pork and not served its purpose of protecting pigs. When you create larger pens, they destroy each other this is what they do, said Feenstra. The Supreme Court upheld Californias law. Justices said its up to Congress to regulate commerce between states, not the courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They went all the way to SCOTUS, they lost, and now instead of moving on, theyve come to Republicans for a legislative bailout, said Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.). Massachusetts Democratic Congressman Jim McGovern says most Americans want humanely raised meat and others question whether Californias law is whats causing the price increases. More tariffs equals higher food costs. Thats the bottom line, said Rep. Jim Costa (D-Calif.). Republican lawmakers are supporting legislation to ensure one states production standards dont impact other states. Democrats say a new law creates even more uncertainty for farmers. Advertisement 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. A Compton man who allegedly hurled concrete blocks at federal officers last month in Paramount was arrested Wednesday after fleeing to Mexico, authorities said. Elpidio Reyna, 39, was placed on the FBIs Most Wanted list following a standoff between federal agents and protesters after the agents conducted an immigration raid at a nearby Home Depot on June 7. In video captured by The Times , individuals can be seen hurling objects at moving federal vehicles. Representatives from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Marshals Service participated in the raid, according to a federal filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 3:30 p.m. on June 7, Reyna allegedly threw concrete blocks at the cars, damaging the exterior of the vehicles and injuring a federal officer, according to the FBI. The agent was inside one of the vehicles and suffered a hand laceration, according to the complaint filed against Reyna. Reyna was charged the next day in a federal criminal complaint with assaulting a federal officer. In the complaint, prosecutors allege he was identified as the man wearing a "Zacatecas" jersey and a yellow helmet in a series of videos, one of which was posted to his TikTok account. The government made an emergency disclosure request to TikTok and was able to find Reyna's address in Compton, according to the complaint. Federal agents later confirmed he had fled to Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 11, the Department of Homeland Security announced a $50,000 reward to locate Reyna, according to a news release . Reynas photograph and description were publicized in the United States and Mexico, including in an Instagram post from the official White House account. A poster circulated by the FBI said he was wanted for "the alleged assault of a federal officer." Read more: What happened during three days of protests over immigration raids in downtown L.A. Mexican authorities took Reyna into custody in Sinaloa state shortly after the post was made public, and Reyna surrendered to the FBI on Wednesday, according to the bureau. He was arrested at the San Ysidro Port of Entry and taken to L.A., where he was expected to make his initial court appearance Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To anyone who thinks they can attack federal officers and hide behind a mask or helmet, Reynas arrest today proves we can find and charge anyone who violates federal law, U.S. Atty. Bill Essayli wrote in a post on X. Dont touch our officers. A video accompanying the post shows Reyna being handcuffed, searched and put into a vehicle. The FBI will never tolerate violence against those who serve and protect this country, FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X , adding that Reyna "will face justice. The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attys. Thi Ho and Frances Lewis. 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. This story was originally published on Manufacturing Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Manufacturing Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: 3M saw its second quarter net sales increase 1.4% year over year to $6.3 billion, topping its expectations, according to the chemical and consumer goods manufacturers earnings report last week. By geography, China led the companys growth with strength in industrial adhesives, films and electronics bonding products. 3Ms strong delivery on its commercial plan drove growth, EVP and CFO Anurag Maheshwari said during the July 18 earnings call. The companys strong operational improvement prompted it to adjust its outlook upward, Maheshwari said. 3M upped its earnings per share guidance from $7.60 to $7.90 to between $7.75 and $8. The modified range now includes tariff impacts as well, according to a Q2 presentation. Dive Insight: 3M previously did not factor tariffs into its guidance due to the situations uncertainty, Maheshwari said. But the company decided to include tariff impacts in its guidance for the second half of 2025 as conditions evolve. Additionally, the company is more than halfway through the year, and any changes from here, wed only have a couple of months in the balance of the year that would impact 25, Chairman and CEO William Brown said during the earnings call. The rest would roll into 2026. So we feel we're pretty well calibrated. Brown noted that the tariff rates have decreased to a cumulative 30% after the United States and China agreed in May to de-escalate their trade war for 90 days. The previous rate increased to 145% and 3M initially expected to incur $850 million in tariff-related expenses this year. The Scotch tape maker began planning and adjusting its product sourcing and logistics last quarter to mitigate the tariff burden. Still, the 30% rate may change. China and the U.S. have reached a proposed agreement under which the U.S. would impose 55% tariffs on Chinese imports, and China would impose 10% tariffs on U.S. imports. Though as of July 22, the deal has yet to be finalized. While things have stabilized at least somewhat, 3M is keeping a close eye on the European Unions trade negotiations, as well as any potential re-escalation and trade tensions with China, Brown said. From the way we see it today, I think we know enough about it in terms of the gross and net impact to roll it through into guidance, which I think is cleaner for investors, the CEO added. James OBrien should be taken off air after making anti-Semitic comments on his radio programme, critics have urged. The LBC presenter read out a message on air from a listener who claimed that Jews are taught Arabs are cockroaches to be crushed. Mr OBrien, a former host of BBC Newsnight, said he read out the message in the interest of objectivity. But the Board of Deputies of British Jews have labelled the comments unacceptable and highly offensive, and has called on LBC to apologise and take Mr OBrien off air. Credit: LBC Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph understands the broadcast has also been reported to the Metropolitan Police, with one complaint alleging that the programme spread lies about Jews. Police have reportedly been told the show puts Jews in very real danger. The comments, which some have labelled anti-Semitic, were shared online by LBC in a clip from a longer live broadcast. It has been reported to the media regulator Ofcom, and has since been removed from X, formerly Twitter, by LBC. In the clip, Mr OBrien stated: Im fascinated by objectivity, which is why Im going to read out this from Chris. He then read out a message that claimed: My wife was brought up Jewish and at Shabbat school in a leafy Hertfordshire town, she was taught that one Jewish life is worth thousands of Arab lives and that Arabs are cockroaches to be crushed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whilst young children are taught such hatred and dehumanisation undoubtedly on both sides then they will always be able to justify death and cruelty. Highly offensive comments Mr OBrien added that in relation to the Israel-Gaza conflict, there was a danger of the public only hearing about one side of the propaganda processes. In response to the comments, Andrew Gilbert, vice president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, called on LBC to apologise and take Mr OBrien off air. In a statement shared on X, Mr Gilbert said: We are urgently seeking a meeting with senior executives following the completely unacceptable and highly offensive comments made by James OBrien on his LBC show today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Broadcasting such a transparent falsehood and demonising the British Jewish community, at a time when antisemitism in this country is at terrifyingly high levels, must have clear consequences. LBC should apologise, and take Mr OBrien off the air. Karne Pollock, the head of the Holocaust Educational Trust, also pointed out that there is no such thing as a Shabbat school. Other critics have taken issue with the on-air message suggesting that beyond Israel itself Jews in general may harbour resentment towards Arabs, and are instructed to feel this way. The day after the contentious broadcast on July 22, Mr OBrien issued an on-air apology when he returned to the LBC studio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: This is very important. At this time yesterday on the show, I read out a message from a listener called Chris, who said that his wife had been brought up in the Jewish faith and had attended what he described as a Shabbat school. He went on to make further claims about what he said she had been taught in that school. As with all the texts and messages that I read out on the programme, I did so in good faith, but the message has understandably upset a lot of people, and I regret taking those unsubstantiated claims at face value and am genuinely sorry for that, and it is very important that I get that out there. Thank you for your attention. LBC, owned by Global, and the Metropolitan Police have been 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. WASHINGTON Immediately after Zohran Mamdani became the presumptive Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City last month, one Republican congressman had a provocative suggestion for the Trump administration: He needs to be DEPORTED. The Uganda-born Mamdani obtained U.S. citizenship in 2018 after moving to the United States with his parents as a child. But Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., argued in his post on X that the Justice Department should consider revoking it over rap lyrics that, he said, suggested support for Hamas. The Justice Department declined to comment on whether it has replied to Ogles letter, but White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said of his claims about Mamdani, Surely if they are true, its something that should be investigated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump himself has claimed without evidence that Mamdani is an illegal immigrant, and when erstwhile ally Elon Musk was asked about deporting another naturalized citizen, he suggested he would consider it. The congressmans proposal dovetails with a priority of the Trump administration to ramp up efforts to strip citizenship from other naturalized Americans. The process, known as denaturalization, has been used by previous administrations to remove terrorists and, decades ago, Nazis and communists. New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani during an election night event on June 25. ( Christian Monterrosa / Bloomberg via Getty Images) But the Trump DOJs announcement last month that it would prioritize and maximally pursue denaturalization proceedings has sparked alarm among immigration lawyers and advocates, who fear the Trump administration could use denaturalization to target political opponents. Although past administrations have periodically pursued denaturalization cases, it is an area ripe for abuse, according to Elizabeth Taufa, a lawyer at the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It can be very easily weaponized at any point, she said. Noor Zafar, an immigration lawyer at the American Civil Liberties Union, said there is a real risk and a real threat that the administration will target people based on their political views. Asked for comment on the weaponization concerns, a Justice Department spokesperson pointed to the federal law that authorizes denaturalizations, 8 U.S.C. 1451. We are upholding our duty as expressed in the statute, the spokesperson said. Immigrant groups and political opponents of Trump are already outraged at the way the Trump administration has used its enforcement powers to stifle dissent in cases involving legal immigrants who do not have U.S. citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE detained Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist engaged in campus protests critical of Israel, for more than 100 days before he was released. Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk was also detained for two months over her pro-Palestinian advocacy. More broadly, the administration has been accused of violating the due process rights of immigrants it has sought to rapidly deport over the objection of judges and, in cases involving alleged Venezuelan gang members and Salvadoran man Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the Supreme Court. A demonstrator holds a portrait of Kilmar Abrego Garcia outside the federal courthouse in Nashville, Tenn., on June 25. (George Walker IV / AP) Denaturalization cases have traditionally been rare and in past decades focused on ferreting out former Nazis who fled to the United States after World War II under false pretenses. But the approach gradually changed after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Aided by technological advances that made it easier to identify people and track them down, the number of denaturalization cases has gradually increased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the Obama administration that initially seized on the issue, launching what was called Operation Janus, which identified more than 300,000 cases where there were discrepancies involving fingerprint data that could indicate potential fraud. But the process is slow and requires considerable resources, with the first denaturalization as a result of Operation Janus secured during Trumps first term in January 2018. That case involved Baljinder Singh, originally from India, who had been subject to deportation but later became a U.S. citizen after assuming a different identity. In total, the first Trump administration filed 102 denaturalization cases, with the Biden administration filing 24, according to the Justice Department spokesperson, who said figures for the Obama administration were not available. The new Trump administration has already filed five. So far, the Trump administration has prevailed in one case involving a man originally from the United Kingdom who had previously been convicted of receiving and distributing child pornography. The Justice Department declined to provide information about the other new cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, denaturalization cases are brought against just a tiny proportion of the roughly 800,000 people who become naturalized citizens each year, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Willful misrepresentation The government has two ways to revoke citizenship, either through a rare criminal prosecution for fraud or via a civil claim in federal court. The administration outlined its priorities for civil enforcement in a June memo issued by Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate, which listed 10 potential grounds for targeting naturalized citizens. Examples range from individuals who pose a risk to national security or who have engaged in war crimes or torture, to people who have committed Medicaid or Medicare fraud or have otherwise defrauded the government. There is also a broad catch-all provision that refers to any other cases ... that the division determines to be sufficiently important to pursue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The denaturalization law focuses on concealment of a material fact or willful misrepresentation during the naturalization proceeding. The ACLUs Zafar said the memo leaves open the option for the Trump administration to at least try to target people based on their speech or associations. Even if they dont think they really have a plausible chance of succeeding, they can use it as a means to just harass people, she added. The Justice Department can bring denaturalization cases over a wide range of conduct related to the questions applicants for U.S. citizenship are asked, including the requirement that they have been of good moral character in the preceding five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigration law includes several examples of what might disqualify someone on moral character grounds, including if they are a habitual drunkard or have been convicted of illegal gambling. The naturalization application form itself asks a series of questions probing good moral character, such as whether the applicant has been involved in violent acts, including terrorism. The form also queries whether people have advocated in support of groups that support communism, the establishment in the United States of a totalitarian dictatorship or the unlawful assaulting or killing of any U.S. official. Failure to accurately answer any of the questions or the omission of any relevant information can be grounds for citizenship to be revoked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2015, for example, Sammy Chang, a native of South Korea who had recently become a U.S. citizen, had his citizenship revoked in the wake of his conviction in a criminal case of trafficking women to work at a club he owned. The government said that because Chang had been engaged in the scheme during the time he was applying for naturalization, he had failed to show good moral character. But in both civil and criminal cases, the government has to reach a high bar to revoke citizenship. Among other things, it has to show that any misstatement or omission in a naturalization application was material to whether citizenship would have been granted. In civil cases, the government has to show clear, convincing, and unequivocal evidence which does not leave the issue in doubt in order to prevail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A simple game of gotcha with naturalization applicants isnt going to work, said Jeremy McKinney, a North Carolina-based immigration lawyer. Its going to require significant materiality for a judge to strip someone of their United States citizenship. Targeting rap lyrics In his June 26 tweet, Ogles attached a letter he sent to Attorney General Pam Bondi asking her to consider pursuing Mamdanis denaturalization, in part, because he expressed open solidarity with individuals convicted of terrorism-related offenses prior to becoming a U.S. citizen. Ogles cited rap lyrics that Mamdani wrote years ago in which he expressed support for the Holy Land Five. That appears to be a reference to five men involved in a U.S.-based Muslim charitable group called the Holy Land Foundation who were convicted in 2008 of providing material support to the Palestinian group Hamas. Some activists say the prosecution was a miscarriage of justice fueled by anti-Muslim sentiment following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Ogles office and Mamdanis campaign did not respond to requests seeking comment. Mamdani and his mother, director Mira Nair, at the premiere of Disney's "Queen Of Katwe" in 2016. (Gregg DeGuire / WireImage file) Speaking on Newsmax in June, Ogles expanded on his reasons for revoking Mamdanis citizenship, suggesting the mayoral candidate had failed to disclose relevant information when he became a citizen, including his political associations. Ogles has alleged Mamdani is a communist because of his identification as a democratic socialist, although the latter is not a communist group. The Trump administration, Ogles added, could use a case against Mamdani to create a template for other individuals who come to this country who, he claimed, want to undermine our way of life. (Even if Mamdani were denaturalized, he would not, contrary to Ogles claim, automatically face deportation, as he would most likely revert his previous status as a permanent resident.) In an appearance on NBCs Meet the Press on June 29, Mamdani said calls for him to be stripped of his citizenship and deported are a glimpse into what life is like for many Muslim New Yorkers and many New Yorkers of different faiths who are constantly being told they dont belong in this city and this country that they love. Targeting Mamdani for his rap lyrics would constitute a very unusual denaturalization case, said Taufa, the immigration lawyer. But, she added, they can trump up a reason to denaturalize someone if they want to. McKinney, a former president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, said the relatively low number of denaturalization cases that are filed, including those taken up during Trumps first term, shows how difficult it is for the government to actually strip people of their citizenship. But what they can be very successful at is continuing to create a climate of panic and anxiety and fear, he added. Theyre doing that very well. So, mission accomplished in that regard. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The latest effort to relax marijuana laws in Oklahoma has passed a critical procedural hurdle, and the campaign will begin collecting signatures to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot. State Question 837 would ask voters to let adults 21 years of age or older buy marijuana without a medical marijuana license. Registered Oklahoma voters can begin signing the petition when it goes live on Aug. 6. Signatures must be turned in to the state by Nov. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Current state law only allows residents to purchase and possess marijuana if they have a medical marijuana patient license. If the state question becomes law, anyone could walk into a dispensary and make a purchase if they are at least 21 years old. Adults under 21 would need a medical marijuana license from the state to purchase cannabis under the proposed framework. Cannabis petition cleared to collect signatures The organizer of the SQ 837 campaign is Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA). The group recently got confirmation from the Oklahoma secretary of state's office that there were no constitutional challenges to the petition. After a state question is first presented to officials, Oklahoma law gives residents 90 days to challenge it on constitutional grounds. Because there was no challenge, ORCA can begin collecting the required number of signatures to put it in front of voters. "Our group's already kind of a statewide organization, so we've been working on getting everyone rowing in the same direction," said ORCA Director Jed Green. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the signature-gathering campaign is successful, SQ 837 could appear on the ballot as early as June 2026 or as late as November that same year during the statewide general election. Supporters will have to gather at least 172,993 verified signatures of registered Oklahoma voters to place it on the ballot. Cannabis plants are pictured Sept. 12, 2024, at Rob and Sons Cannabis Co. in Shawnee. This signature-gathering campaign will be more difficult than others in previous years, however. During the 2025 legislative session, state lawmakers approved a law that limits the number of initiative petition signatures that can be collected from a single county. Senate Bill 1027 has since been challenged in the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which has not yet issued a ruling. "We don't have a lot of concern as a grassroots organization complying with some of the aspects of 1027," Green told The Oklahoman. "We've already got folks on the ground in 55 counties right now. We've got over 300 retail businesses already signed up to help us circulate." Green said this is the best time of year for signature gathering because of all the high-turnout events across Oklahoma like fairs and sporting events. The new signature requirements, however, will force ORCA to rely more on support in smaller, more rural counties. That includes Harmon County in far southwestern Oklahoma, where Green said he can only sign up a few dozen voters before reaching the limit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Maybe we'll go and hang out at the co-op for a day or go to the county courthouse, I don't know," he said. "Voters of Harmon County, only 117 of you are allowed to sign this so get ready, we'll come out and visit." What does Oklahoma's State Question 837 do? If it becomes part of Oklahoma's Constitution, SQ 837 would open marijuana sales to any adult who is at least 21 years old, regardless of their medical status or state of residence. These purchases would be taxed at 10%, along with the usual state, county or local sales taxes. The amendment wouldn't abolish the medical marijuana system, however. People who keep their medical patient status would be exempt from paying the 10% marijuana excise tax, which is currently set at 7%. The amendment also would ensure that law enforcement cannot presume someone's impairment or intoxication based solely on the use of marijuana or presence of THC in their system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sales to the public would begin 60 days after passage, and home delivery would be authorized after six months. Oklahoma has considered 'recreational' marijuana before In 2023, voters rejected State Question 820, which would have created a separate recreational marijuana market for licensed adults who are at least 21 years old. Over 61% of voters rejected the proposal, which was criticized by some law enforcement, religious leaders and public school administrators in the closing weeks of the campaign as a step too far. ORCA, the organizer of SQ 837, opposed that earlier campaign because of what Green described as a faulty framework that could be easily altered or even reversed by state lawmakers during a legislative session. Because SQ 837 would be written into the Oklahoma Constitution, any further changes would be much more difficult without another statewide vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma voters first approved medical marijuana in 2018. Marijuana's legal status could change on the federal level, too. In 2022, President Joe Biden triggered a review of marijuana's classification as a controlled drug. Two top agencies eventually recommended it be reclassified from Schedule I to Schedule III, but the process was temporarily halted when Donald Trump returned to the White House. Trump has previously indicated support for looser marijuana laws in his home state of Florida, but the issue hasn't been a federal priority during his first six months in office. His pick to lead the Drug Enforcement Agency, however, was only confirmed July 22. New DEA Administrator Terrance Cole has said one of his first priorities would be to review marijuana's reclassification, although he did not indicate which way he would lean. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Campaign to legalize recreational marijuana in Oklahoma advances Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday rejected the idea that the country would agree to a rushed trade deal with the United States. The Trump administration implemented an Aug. 1 deadline for trade deals, carrying the threat of a 35 percent tariff on Canadian exports after imposing then pausing harsher levies earlier this year. The government of Canada will not accept a bad deal, Carney said in French in Huntsville, Ontario, in remarks alternating between English and French, as reported by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our objective is not to reach a deal whatever it costs. We are pursuing a deal that will be in the best interest of Canadians, he added. Carney made the remarks at a three-day gathering of Canadas premiers that focused, in part, on how they would approach an Aug. 1 deadline. Our phone is ringing off the hook from other countries that want to do more with Canada, Carney said, according to the outlet. Ive had over 80 bilaterals with world leaders since I became prime minister. A number of the premiers have been on major trade missions. We have other things to do, he said. Uncertainty has riddled leaders dealing with President Trumps efforts to improve global trade with longtime international partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump is very, very hard to deal with, just because its so fluid. Its constantly moving, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said of the matter, according to The New York Times. You talk to him one day, and all of a sudden hes on some media outlet saying theres a 35 percent tariff, he added. Ford has visited Washington multiple times this year attempting to hammer out tariff agreements with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick after threatening to tax electricity imports from the Great White North. Canadas leaders have been strategizing how to satisfy Trump ever since. We would like to have the ideal deal, but what can we get? You almost need to ask Donald Trump, and Im not even sure that he knows himself what he wants, Quebec Premier Francois Legault said, according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. Advertisement 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. HUNTSVILLE, Ontario Many Canadians are furious with President Donald Trump, aghast at his trade war and his calls to annex their country. Then theres Danielle Smith, premier of Alberta. We have a longstanding relationship with the Americans that goes back over 100 years, and its going to last 100 years or more, she says in an interview with POLITICO Magazine. Smiths approach may be distinct in part because shes a Conservative who meets regularly with Trump administration officials. Her oil-and-gas-rich Alberta also has a large trading relationship with the United States that is largely tariff-free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the premier isnt sure what to make of an Aug. 1 deadline Trump has set on high-stakes negotiations that are supposed to produce a cross-border security and trade pact. You just never know if those are posturing positions for negotiations or if thats a demonstration that things are not going as smoothly as wed all hoped, she says. Smith also doesnt shy away from beefing with anybody who challenges her provinces prosperity. She was famously adversarial with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; by the end of his tenure, she couldnt manage a positive word about him. But even as a scrappy separatist movement tries to gain a foothold in her province amid frustration with Canadas federal government, she dismisses any notion that her people want to become the 51st American state. Alberta hasnt been treated very well by Washington, either, she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Smith joined her provincial counterparts for an annual summer confab in Ontario with special guest Prime Minister Mark Carney, she talked about her impression of Canadas new Liberal leader, the ongoing trade talks and what her colleagues need to know about Trump. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity. You speak regularly with members of the Trump administration and have spent some time in Mar-a-Lago. What do you think Canadian lawmakers fail to understand about Trump? Well, theres two things. I read his book, "The Art of the Deal," and I read Robert Lighthizers book as well. I also read a little bit about President McKinley. So I take the president seriously when he says that theres certain things that he wants to do. He likes the idea of tariffs as a way of generating revenue. Hes obviously targeting certain industries that he wants to be homegrown in the United States, and so I think we have to understand thats the case as well. But it seems to me that theres also a lot of room for common ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I look at Alberta, none of our energy resources are tariffed. None of our agriculture products are tariffed. The vast majority of goods crossing the border are [U.S.-Mexico-Canada] agreement compliant. He does have particular issues that he has with some particular industries. When he identifies an area thats a trade irritant, that means it probably is, and trying to find a way to get a resolution is probably the way to get a renegotiated deal. Whats your sense of negotiations at the moment? Carney understands that it might be difficult to get back to the full tariff-free relationship that we enjoyed before. I dont know what that means. I dont know if that means that theres certain sectors that are going to continue to face a tariff threat, or if theres going to be an across-the-board tariff. Im not quite sure. I guess well find out when we have a chance to talk with him. Canada did demonstrate some goodwill in removing the Digital Services Tax, which was something that was causing aggravation to the administration, and so I would hope that would have helped to soften the waters so that we would be able to get an agreement on August 1st. I think everyone is still holding out some hope that will happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im told the president doesnt like the emotional reaction Canada has had in response to his tariffs. You appear to take the emotion out of the negotiations and treat the tariffs more like a business transaction. Do you think the Liberal government and even Ontario Premier Doug Ford have been too emotional at times when responding to the tariffs? Different people respond in different ways. I think some people are worried about the damage to the relationship. Im a bit worried about that too. But I also know that we have a longstanding relationship with the Americans that goes back over 100 years, and its going to last 100 years or more. You dont allow for temporary frustrations and irritations to damage the relationship permanently. Thats the approach that Ive taken. If we can identify the things that are causing that irritation and resolve them, great. If we can maintain a good diplomatic relationship because the majority of the relationship is tariff-free and positive for both countries I tend to look at the positive side of it. So my approach may be a little bit different than the other premiers, but I think its one thats justified by the fact that we have such a large trade relationship directly between Alberta and the United States, and at the moment, most of it is tariff-free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is the August 1 deadline realistic? Im looking at what Im seeing in the media and you just never know if those are posturing positions for negotiations or if thats a demonstration that things are not going as smoothly as wed all hoped. Im hopeful that were going to have an early renegotiation of the [USMCA] agreement its not up for renewal until 2026 because I think that the uncertainty associated with the on-again, off-again tariffs that we keep hearing about is causing a lot of investor uncertainty in both jurisdictions, and it would be better to have some certainty. We do trade agreements to create business certainty, and right now we dont have business certainty and that's causing a lot of concern about investment, and thats what we have to get to. Weve got to get some certainty so that we can go back to figuring out some of those relationships again. How would you describe your relationship with Mark Carney? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I mean, hes an affable, amiable guy. Hes an Edmonton Oilers fan, so we already have some common ground to start from. He understands Alberta, having lived there for a number of years. Hes been an adviser as a banker to Conservative governments both here and in the U.K., so theres some common ground to start on. But the problem is that weve got nine terrible laws that have impacted our investment climate in Alberta and all of them are still on the books. Im going to continue to press the case about why we need to either repeal or substantially revise those laws, and then well see if we can come to some agreement in the fall. But I think well wait and see what kind of legislation he brings forward when [the House of Commons sits again] in September. How would you describe Albertas beef with Ontario? The people of Alberta saw a cancellation of the Energy East pipeline, the Northern Gateway pipeline and the Keystone XL pipeline, which has cost 2.5 million barrels a day of production, C$55 billion to our economy. Anyone would be upset at that level of investment loss. And thats only a fraction of the projects that have been chased away because of a bad business climate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What youre seeing with Alberta, theyre saying, Enough is enough. Stop putting in policies that are damaging to our economy. Thats not the historic agreement that we have as a country. As a country, the federal government was given the trade and commerce power so that one province couldnt block another from getting their products to market. It was never given to them so that they could be the ones that block products from getting to market. Theyve broken down the foundational relationship with our province and were just asking for them to repair it. Weve had these kinds of problems in the past, and then with a change in federal policy, the sentiment has subsided. And so thats what Im hoping. I think that the independence movement was created by 10 years of bad Liberal policy and it could be changed by repealing those 10 bad years of Liberal policy. How concerned should the rest of Canada be about Alberta's independence movement? I take it seriously. Im concerned and so should they be, because if these issues arent resolved, theres a potential for it to bubble over, and I dont want to see that. Thats why Im doing everything I can to persuade the federal government that its in their power to make the changes that they need to make, to be able to satisfy the concerns of Albertans. And they should do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Has anyone in the Trump administration or MAGA movement encouraged you to hold an independence referendum? No. I mean, other than the general calls to join as a 51st state. We also suffered at the hands of Washington when Joe Biden got in. We thought we had a deal on a Keystone XL pipeline and within five minutes of getting elected, he cancelled that pipeline deal as well. Alberta hasnt been treated very well by Washington, either. I dont think theres a lot of enthusiasm to join with the Americans. Albertans just want to be respected. We want to be able to develop our economy. We want to be able to build pipelines north, south, east and west. And we hope that we can work with both the administrations in Ottawa and Washington to do that. Charlestown police have arrested a man in southern Indiana in connection with a scam that targeted older American victims across several states. Authorities say an older Charlestown resident was tricked into withdrawing $27,000 from his retirement accounts and handing the cash over to a man who showed up at his front door on May 5. Don't miss Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man, identified as 36-year-old Jia Hua Liu, allegedly took the money and left. Police launched an investigation and linked Liu to additional scams in Ohio, New Mexico and Tennessee. Investigators estimate the total losses from these incidents top $309,000, according to WDRB. Liu, a Canadian citizen who entered the U.S. in April, also came close to defrauding three more older victims in Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan. Those attempts were stopped by concerned family members, potentially preventing another $70,000 in losses. He was arrested on July 2 at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport while trying to leave the country. Police say they recovered a substantial amount of cash during a search of his vehicle and luggage. Liu faces charges of theft, fraud, conspiracy and money laundering. The investigation is ongoing. His arrest highlights just how scammers targeting older adults use increasingly sophisticated tactics. As these schemes become more common, understanding how they work can hlp protect you or someone you love from becoming the next victim. How the scams work In 2023, people over the age of 60 lost more than $3.4 billion to fraud. Older adults are often targeted in financial scams for several reasons. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), seniors are more likely to have retirement savings or home equity, may live alone and tend to be more trusting of strangers. Cognitive decline can also make it harder to detect a scam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the most common scams targeting seniors include: Government impersonation scams: Scammers pose as officials from the IRS or Social Security Administration, claiming to protect your money from fraud. Sweepstakes and lottery scams: Victims are told theyve won a prize but must pay a fee to collect it. Tech support scams: Scammers pretend to be IT workers and gain remote access to computers, then install malware or demand payment for fake repairs. Romance scams: Fraudsters build online relationships to gain trust and then ask for money. Family or grandparent scams: Scammers claim to be a grandchild in trouble and ask for emergency money, often saying theyre in jail or stranded abroad. Scammers often spend weeks or months building trust. Authorities urge seniors and their families to stay alert and avoid giving away large amounts of money. We all need to work together to make sure our seniors, their caregivers, families, and friends know the signs to look for that a criminal is after your money, said FBI Criminal Investigative Division Assistant Director Michael Nordwall. Read more: Americans are revenge saving to survive but millions only get a measly 1% on their savings. Heres how to quickly earn 280% more on your cash How to protect those you love from similar scams Scammers count on fear and urgency. Whether they claim your bank account has been hacked or pretend to be a loved one, the goal is always to get money fast before youve had time to think it through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Red flags to watch out for include: Requests to withdraw large sums of cash or gift cards A stranger or courier coming to your home to collect money Pressure to act quickly and keep the situation secret Caller ID showing a government agency or bank Anyone telling you not to talk to family or friends "Anytime anyone calls you or asks you to call them on the phone and they want you to withdraw large sums of money, that's probably not legitimate," said Charlestown Police Detective Jason Broady. "There is probably some sort of scam going on." If you're a caregiver for an older loved one, here's how you can help: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talk openly about common scams and how they work Encourage them to call you before making unusual financial decisions Set up transaction alerts on their bank accounts Help screen their calls or block unknown numbers. Remind them that no government agency accepts cash, gift cards or cryptocurrency Charlestown Police believe there may be more victims who havent yet come forward. If you live in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Georgia, Alabama or Tennessee and suspect a similar scam has targeted you or a loved one, contact local law enforcement or call the Charlestown Police Departments anonymous tip line at 812-256-2473. What to read next Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Brigitte and Emmanuel Macron have filed a defamation lawsuit in U.S. federal court against Candace Owens, accusing the conservative commentator of spreading a series of knowingly false and damaging claims that the First Lady of France was born biologically male. Filed in Delaware on Wednesday, the extraordinary 219-page lawsuit demands a jury trial and seeks unspecified damages for 22 separate counts of defamation. It alleges that Owens launched a campaign of global humiliation by repeatedly publishing debunked conspiracy theories, including the claim that Brigitte Macron is a transgender woman who stole another persons identity. More from TheWrap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the filing, Owens made the first public accusation in March 2024, stating she would stake [her] entire professional reputation on the claim that Mrs. Macron is in fact a man. The lawsuit says Owens promoted this narrative ever since, most prominently through an eight-part podcast titled Becoming Brigitte, published after she received a legal retraction demand from the Macrons. In the podcast and associated posts on X, Owens allegedly claimed the French First Lady was born male and transitioned to her current identity; that she and President Macron are blood relatives engaged in incest; and that the French president was installed through a CIA mind-control program. These claims are demonstrably false, and Owens knew they were false when she published them, the lawsuit states. It says Owens acted in pursuit of fame and profit, especially following her high-profile departure from The Daily Wire after feuding with founder Ben Shapiro. Owens, who now runs her own independent podcast platform, has more than 6.9 million followers on X and over 4 million subscribers on YouTube. The lawsuit claims that her false statements about the Macrons have driven significant traffic to her channels and helped monetize her content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Messages sent to Owens by TheWrap were not immediately returned Wednesday. Owens had not yet addressed the lawsuit on her social platforms by midday Wednesday, but foreshadowed it in a Tuesday X post, saying: Its official! Brigitte is now suing the author of Becoming Brigitte for cyberbullying. Am I next?! Today on the show: -Its official! Brigitte is now suing the author of Becoming Brigitte for cyberbullying. Am I next?! -We continue our Epstein series, with a look at Robert Maxwells wife & an interesting holocaust survival story. Join us LIVE!https://t.co/YATGnWP7WZ Candace Owens (@RealCandaceO) July 22, 2025 The filing describes Owens broader track record of promoting conspiracy theories, including anti-vaccine misinformation, Holocaust distortion and antisemitic tropes. It also points out that Owens ignored direct outreach and credible evidence disproving her claims including court decisions in France where similar rumors had already been ruled defamatory. The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale, the complaint reads. Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications. The Macrons are seeking damages to be determined at trial and a court order to prevent further dissemination of the false claims. The lawsuit was filed in Delaware because Owens LLC was formed in the state, according to the filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit is a rare legal maneuver by a sitting head of state and spouse in a U.S. court, and underscores the growing international scrutiny of misinformation disseminated through online platforms. The post Candace Owens Sued for Defamation by French First Lady Brigitte Macron Over Knowingly False Claims Shes Transgender appeared first on TheWrap. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) A candlelight vigil was held at the West Texas Abilene Raceway on Tuesday evening to honor and remember the victims of the Central Texas flooding, as well as their loved ones. A small group gathered to share their personal experiences and pay tribute to those who were affected by the floods. Raceway Administrative Assistant and vigil organizer, Miranda Pohlman, told KTAB/KRBC that the number of attendees is of little importance, as the purpose of the night is to provide support and community for those in need, whether that be 12 or 1,200. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were only an hour from San Angelo, three hours from Camp Mystic, where those girls tragically passed away. Where were based in Fort Worth, were only an hour away from where we live, so it would have been selfish of us not to put something together for the community, Pohlman said. On Tuesday night, July 22, and throughout the preceding weeks, raceway staff collected donations, including pet supplies, hygiene items, monetary contributions, and non-perishable foods. They will be partnering with a yet-to-be-decided local organization that is already making supply runs to Central Texas to deliver the donations to those in need. Music for the event was provided by co-organizer Erasmo Zamora, also known as DJ MexMix. Following a message delivered by Pastor Steve Longmire, the raceway announcer, attendees began to share their own experiences, fears, and concerns, showcasing the true meaning of the vigil. Raceway staff told KTAB/KRBC that there are no current plans for another donation drive, but potential exists should the need arise. Advertisement 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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. NEW YORK (Reuters) -Activist investor Elliott Investment Management has a large investment in data center operator Equinix and has increased its stake in the last weeks, a person familiar with the matter said on Monday, after the company's stock price tumbled last month. The hedge fund, which has made a string of profitable technology investments including bets on Salesforce, Texas Instruments and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, has been holding discussions with Equinix, said the person, who was not permitted to discuss the private talks publicly. Neither Elliott's exact demands for the company nor the exact size of the stake could be learned. Equinix's stock price climbed 1.5% on Monday to close trading at $789.19. Elliott swooped in after Equinix investors were caught off guard at the company's analyst day last month by news of a higher than expected capital expenditure plan that sparked a sharp sell-off. The stock price tumbled 18% in the two trading sessions following the June 25 analysts day, the first for Equinix's new chief executive officer, Adaire Fox-Martin. Demand for data centers is growing as AI adoption grows and analysts have said Equinix is positioned to capture some of the demand. Bloomberg first reported the news of Elliott's investment in Equinix. (Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The heat and humidity have lingered over the last few days in KELOLAND. High temps reached the 90s yesterday but it felt more like the triple digits. While these ingredients often set the stage for storms, it does not always happen. Thats because of a feature called a capping inversion, or what you may have heard meteorologists refer to as the cap. Its a layer of warmer air higher up in the atmosphere that acts like a lid, and the heat and humidity at the surface have a hard time rising to create thunderstorms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Storm Center PM Update: Small Break from the Heat; Spotty Storms Next Week But the cap does not always stay stable. Things like strong heating in the afternoon, a shortwave trough, or cold front can help break the cap. We saw this last night as a passing shortwave aloft helped weaken the cap. Storms were able to fire off in Western South Dakota and push eastward going into this morning. There were multiple reports of strong wind gusts with these storms, some of which exceeded 70 MPH. We will still be keeping an eye on the sky today for more potential storms. But good news is that behind the front causing this, we will get more seasonable temperatures for Thursday. Advertisement 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. NILES, Ohio (WKBN) OhioMeansJobs Trumbull County is partnering with the Eastwood Mall to host a job fair in the main concourse. Employers in the healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, hospitality and retail industries will be at the mall on Friday, August 1, for the career fair. It takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Employers who are interested in participating can call 330-675-2179. Advertisement 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. WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Carl Kelsey Parks, a beloved father, son, brother and friend, was called to his eternal home on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the age of 32. Born on October 13, 1992, in Warren, Ohio, Carls infectious laughter and generous spirit were gifts to all who knew him. He passed away unexpectedly in Cleveland, Ohio, leaving a legacy of love and cherished memories. Find obituaries from your high school Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carl, affectionately known as Carl by his friends and family, lived a life that exemplified the Christian values he held dear. His faith was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding him through lifes challenges and joys. He was a graduate of Niles McKinley High School. Carl was a hardworking individual who dedicated many years as a factory worker and recycler, always striving to provide for his family and contribute positively to his community. He is survived by a loving family who will forever feel the void left by his passing. His parents, Carl Parks, Sr. and Catherine Parks; his siblings, Coty and Darian Parks and his four beautiful children, daughters, Elena and Emma Parks, and sons, Chevy and Carl Parks, III, will hold onto the precious memories they created with Carl. Each family member will carry forward his legacy of kindness, humor and unwavering faith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carls passions were as varied as they were rich. He found solace in the melodies of gospel music, the strength in weightlifting, the tranquility in fishing and the elegance of classic cars. His sense of humor was a source of joy for all, as he believed in the power of laughter to bring people together. Carl never missed an opportunity to be with his family and friends, cherishing every moment spent in their company. As we mourn the loss of Carl, we are comforted by the words of the Psalmist, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). This scripture was a beacon of hope for Carl and it remains a source of solace for us in this time of sorrow. Carls life was a testament to the enduring power of faith, the importance of family and the joy of living a life filled with laughter and love. As we say farewell to this remarkable man, we take solace in the knowledge that his spirit lives on in each of us and his memory will forever be a blessing. Arrangements are being handled by the Borowski Funeral Services & Oak Meadow Cremation Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May Carl Kelsey Parks rest in the peace of Christ and may his soul, by the mercy of God, continue to shine as a beacon of love and hope. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carl, please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Thursday, July 24 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. DENVER (KDVR) A 23-year-old Castle Rock man was sentenced to 60 years in prison last week after a Douglas County jury found him guilty in May of two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder. The man, identified as Miguel Angel Mercado, was convicted for his role in the November 2022 shooting death of 23-year-old Daniel Vilchis Mercado, no relation. Man suffers life-threatening injuries after Monday night shooting in Aurora: police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Castle Rock Police argued a then-20-year-old Miguel Mercado pulled out a gun and opened fire during a fistfight in the parking lot of the Pines at Castle Rock apartments on Castle Drive West on Nov. 29, 2022, killing Vilchis Mercado and seriously wounding another man. According to police, the altercation was the result of Vilchis Mercado accusing Miguel Mercados roommate of being involved with Vilchis Mercados girlfriend. The parties ultimately met in the parking lot, where the fight broke out, police said. George Brauchler, District Attorney of Colorados 23rd Judicial District, said the jury had quickly and decisively dismissed claims by Miguel Mercado that the shooting was in self defense. Bringing a gun to a fistfight screams gutless act of revenge,' Brauchler said in a statement. Our collective goal will be to hold murderers accountable at the highest and most appropriate level. Someday this murderer will be free again. His victim and those who love him will never be free of this horrific crime. Advertisement 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. Officials in Florida were emu-sed during a recent animal rescue. On Sunday, July 20, at around 1:00 p.m. local time, the Orange County Sheriff's Office received a report about a "loose emu wandering around a pond" in Orlando, according to a statement obtained by PEOPLE. The emu escaped from the fenced area of a nearby farm, according to officials. Deputies responded and worked to "corral" the loose animal. After getting the emu under control, authorities gave the flightless bird water before returning it to its owners. The owners arrived on the location where the emu was found and loaded it into a vehicle to return to the farm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our deputies probably were not expecting to have to wrangle an emu when they arrived to work, but this just goes to show they can handle any situation that comes their way," officials said. The sheriff's office shared a social media post about the emu rescue on Tuesday, July 22, writing, "Cat in a tree? Nope, our deputies rescued this emu, who escaped from its house." The humorous post featured a snap of two officers posing with a large white and brown emu in front of a garage door. According to Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, emus are the second largest living bird and clock in at an average of about 5 feet and 7 inches in height. Male emus tend to weigh up to 121 pounds, with females weighing about 11 pounds heavier. The flightless animal is native to Australia and can live in several different environments, including eucalyptus forests, woodlands, and sand plains. The bird's lifespan is typically around five to ten years, but the species can live longer in captivity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, officials in suburban San Diego received a report about an emu on the loose. A social media post from the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) stated that the shelter received a call that an injured emu was wandering around about 50 miles north of San Diego. The organization added that the giant bird sustained injuries to its neck and right wing during its time on the lam. Officers with SDHS's Humane Officers & Emergency Response Team assisted with the animal's rescue. Stock photo of adult emu 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. 10 News reported that SDHS treated the bird for its injuries and worked on finding the creature's rightful owners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As with any stray animal in our care, Claudius will remain on a 72-hour stray hold while we determine the next steps," Nina Thompson, the Humane Society's director of public relations, told the outlet at the time. Read the original article on People STURBRIDGE, Mass. (WWLP) Crews worked to put out a fire at a mixed-use, multi-story building known as Sadie Greens on Main Street in Sturbridge. On Monday morning, the Sturbridge Fire Department received several 911 calls reporting a fire at 283 Main Street. The multi-story building has commercial properties on the ground level and residential units above. What to do if you see spotted lanternflies this summer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, crews found a fire originating from a second-floor apartment at the rear of the building. They were able to quickly bring the fire under control with the help of mutual aid from Auburn, Brimfield, and Holland, resulting in no injuries. Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Sadie Greens fire in Sturbridge (Sturbridge Fire Department) Five residents were assisted by the Town of Sturbridge and The Publick House. Sadie Greens Jewelry and Gift Shop is temporarily closed due to water and smoke damage. A GoFundMe has raised nearly $10,000 so far in support of the family who lost their home. The Sturbridge Fire Department stated that the fire was caused by a clothes dryer. Tips to prevent dryer fires Clean the lint filter after each use to prevent lint buildup. Lint can reduce airflow and create a flammable fuel source. Clean the vents outside twice a year, or more often if your clothes take longer than normal to dry. You can also have a dryer lint removal service. Use the right duct : Replace any plastic or foil accordion-style ducts with a rigid metal duct. Dont overload the dryer. Dont dry flammable materials : Dont dry materials that are contaminated with flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials. Stay home : Stay home when the dryer is in use. If you must leave, turn off the dryer. Remove combustibles and keep at least 3 clearance around it. Have working smoke alarms : Make sure your home has working smoke alarms. Have a family escape plan: Practice a family escape plan with family members, and make sure everyone knows how to call for help. 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 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. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) Were in the height of summer, and the Oceanfront is packed with locals and tourists looking to cool off in the water, but as we saw recently, there can be danger lurking there. Rip Current Risk Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner lost his life over the weekend to high currents, while rip currents have claimed the lives of 15 people across the U.S. so far in 2025, according to the National Weather Service. While none of those has been in Virginia waters, its still something to be aware of no matter where you are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like many of us, Tom Gill, chief of the Virginia Beach Life Saving Service, grew up watching the Cosby Show. So, hearing about Malcolm-Jamal Warners death hit hard. Its really sad. It shows how dangerous the ocean can be, Gill said. Warner was with his family in Costa Rica when he was pulled under by a high current and drowned. Another person, a 35-year-old man, was caught in the same current and is in critical condition. If you dont understand what theyre doing and how to react within a rip current, they can be deadly for anyone, Gill said. As the tide starts coming in from low to high is probably one of our more dangerous times. A rip current is a channel of water moving away from the shore, commonly caused by breaks in sandbars or obstructions in the water like a pier or the jetty. If you feel yourself being pulled into one, remember this: Number one thing to do is remain calm, Gill said. If you can stay on top of the water, you can survive a rip current. Itll carry you farther out, but once its done, swim parallel to the shore to go around it, and then swim toward the shore. Its the fight to exhaustion, or the immediate panic and lack of swimming ability that kill people in rip currents. While difficult to identify when in the water, lifeguards have an advantage in spotting rip currents, looking down from a height and spotting telltale signs a swimmer cant see. Theyre usually darker water because its a deeper area, so that area is darker, or youre going to see debris, sand from the shoreline being taken out, Gill said, so its going to look kind of brown and murky. And sometimes when youve got a whole lot of surf, youve got a lot of whitewater, you might see that white water going out into that rip current. Rip currents can last anywhere from five seconds to five minutes. Gill said to look for those red flags that signal high water hazards, and always swim in front of a lifeguard. You can learn more here: https://www.usla.org/page/ripcurrents. Advertisement 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 WAVY.com. As Nashville students head back to school next month, new rules on when they can and cannot use their cell phones will be in place. After the passage of a Tennessee law requiring districts to ban cell phone use during class time, with a few exceptions, MNPS mapped out a new policy to align with the new law. While the district already had a cell phone policy in place that barred usage during class time, it largely left decisions in the hands of school leaders. The MNPS board approved the new policy during its regularly scheduled meeting on July 22. Here's what to know about the new rules. Senior Saniyah Morris, 17, uses her cellphone at KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. The school uses Yondr pouches for students to lock up their phones during school hours. Cell phone rules for MNPS students Students in grades K-5 are allowed to bring cell phones or other personal technology to school. However, the use of that technology is up to the building administrator and is prohibited during class time unless once of the exceptions to the rule is met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students in grades 6-12 are also allowed to have cell phones and other personal technology at school and are allowed to use them during lunch and in between classes. However, students are not allowed to use the devices during class, unless a teacher gives them permission for educational, health or emergency purposes. Penalties for breaking the rules include confiscation and further disciplinary action. Teachers are allowed to withhold a student's cell phone or other devices during class if the student breaks the rules. The school can also hold a student's device until it is released to a parent or guardian. Exceptions for emergencies, students with disabilities In the event of an emergency at a child's school, students will be allowed to access their cell phones or other devices to communicate. Parents and guardians will also be alerted through the school's emergency communication protocols, which may include phone calls, emails or text messages from the school. Students are allowed to use personal devices if they are included in their Individual Education Program, 504 Plan or Individual Learning Plan. The same rule applies for students with disabilities that use assistive technology, so long as there is an agreement in place between the school and the child's parent or guardian. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville schools cell phone ban? It's not absolute. What to know DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A local music group is making their name known in the a capella world. Vocalight is a group of five Centerville High School alumni that is pursuing their passion one performance at a time. I feel like the movies and like, Pentatonix have just brought it out from the obscurity to more of a forefront, said Sammy Villalva, bass for Vocalight. Its growing even to this day. Its so great. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you have a band, you have people that are playing the instruments, you have someone that could play the electric guitar, the bass, the piano, said Natalie DiPietro, soprano for Vocalight. Those are all things that are external of you. In an acapella group, everything youre hearing is from us. While in high school, the five were in the renown acapella ensemble Forte. In January 2024, the group decided to bring their talents together under the tutelage and management of Ben Spalding. The group says theyre heavily R&B influenced, with mainstream pop vibes, but makes room for original pieces. Their music is on all major streaming and social media platforms, and have even been recognized with the award of Pop EP at the Contemporary Acapella Recording Awards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres like, nothing like an acapella concert, says Sydney Korpusik, mezzo at Vocalight. You havent lived until youve gone to an a cappella concert. The group performs at a variety of local and regional venues. When needed, the members covers their own expenses. Vocalight most recently won first place at the Harmony Sweepstakes A Capella Festival Regional Tournament. In October, Vocalight will head to San Francisco for the finals. Weve been putting a lot of work into our music and all the practices weve had, said Cara DiPietro, alto at Vocalight. It feels like its paid off with everything that we put into this group feels like a reward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teams hoping to strike the right chord from New York to California are included in the competition. At the end of the day we all just love singing together since were all so close, said Sydney Korpusik, mezzo at Vocalight. And I think just having more opportunities to perform is what matters. Vocalight will perform Saturday, July 26th at Centerville High School, located at 500 E. Franklin St. in Centerville. If youd like to support Vocalight on their journey, 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. Tech earnings season kicks off in earnest on Wednesday, when Google parent Alphabet (GOOG, GOOGL) reports its results after the bell. And Wall Streets two favorite letters will once again dominate the conversation: AI From continued capex spending to questions about if and how those huge cash outlays are driving new revenue streams, AI will seemingly be all investors and analysts talk about. But Big Tech companies are also facing a variety of additional challenges this quarter, ranging from Google's antitrust trial to Microsoft's (MSFT) relationship with OpenAI (OPAI.PVT) to Apple's (AAPL) ongoing AI troubles. And while AI darling Nvidia (NVDA) won't report its earnings until Aug. 27, leaving the most anticipated disclosure of the season more than a month away, there will be plenty of news and announcements to track in the interim. And it's certain to make for a busy earnings cycle. AI sales growth is still at the center of the conversation Big Tech's billions of dollars in investments into AI data centers helped power Nvidia's massive growth over the past few years, but Wall Street is looking to see how much that spending is paying off. During Amazon's (AMZN) last earnings call, CEO Andy Jassy said the company's AI business "has a multibillion dollar annual revenue run rate, continues to grow triple-digit year-over-year percentages, and is still in its very early days." What's more, Jassy said prior to the latest generation of AI, Amazon believed AWS had a chance to be a multi-$100 billion run rate business, and now the company believes it can grow even more beyond that. But Amazon will need to show off how exactly it plans to get there to keep investors happy when it reports on July 31. Google, which reports today, and Microsoft, which reports July 30, will also have to prove their AI plans are paying dividends. Google has added its Gemini model to its Workspace productivity software and across its search products, including its AI Overviews and AI Mode. Read more: Live coverage of corporate earnings During the company's Q1 earnings call, senior vice president and chief business officer Philipp Schindler said AI Overviews searches monetize at the same rate as standard search queries, which leaves room for improvement. The company said its AI expansion and Google Cloud Platform Core products also helped power a 28% increase in its Cloud segment revenue. But questions remain about how it will successfully monetize its AI Mode offering and fend off challenges from OpenAI, Anthropic (ANTH.PVT), and Perplexity (PEAI.PVT). Central Florida school leaders are confronting a funding gap as the federal government withholds millions in essential education funds just ahead of the start of the new school year. The Trump administration initially froze $6 billion in funding for education programs approved by Congress, releasing only $1 billion specifically for after-school and summer education initiatives. Florida educators argue that the state continues to lack the millions of dollars required for student support and teacher development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A group of school districts and advocacy organizations, such as the Florida PTA, has filed a lawsuit to mandate the release of all allocated funding. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. U.S. Army soldiers with the 14th Brigade Engineer Battalion walk a grid pattern fighting the Boulder Fire in Idaho's Boise National Forest on Aug. 22, 2024. (Clark Corbin/Idaho Capital Sun) The Central Idaho Dispatch Zone, which includes the Salmon-Challis National Forest, elevated its fire danger to very high this week, U.S. Forest Service officials announced. In a press release issued Monday, Forest Service officials said hot weather and dry fuel conditions led them to elevate the fire danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Very High fire danger, fires can start from most causes, Forest Service officials said. The fires can spread rapidly and have a quick increase in intensity, right after ignition. Small fires can quickly become large fires and exhibit extreme fire intensity, such as long-distance spotting and fire whirls. The Salmon-Challis National Forest covers about 4.3 million acres of land in Central Idaho and includes part of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the Salmon River and Idahos highest peak, Mount Borah. Most wildfires in Idaho are caused by humans, not lightning strikes, the Idaho Capital Sun previously reported. Officials said it is important for the public to play its part in preventing wildfires by properly maintaining and extinguishing campfires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These fires can be difficult to control and will often become much larger and longer-lasting fires, Forest Service officials said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX State officials say trash can with hot ashes started Idahos Clover Fire Officials with the Idaho Department of Lands announced Tuesday they worked with the Idaho State Fire Marshal to determine that a trash can filled with hot ashes was responsible for starting the Clover Fire that ignited July 13 in Boundary County near Naples, Idaho. Heat from the bottom of the metal can caused grass underneath the can to ignite and strong winds quickly carried the fire, Idaho Department of Lands officials wrote in a press release issued late Monday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before it was contained, the Clover Fire threatened structures and led to evacuations that affected about 30 residences, the Sun previously reported. Under Idaho law, the state is allowed to recover actual costs of extinguishing a fire from anyone deemed responsible for that fire. Officials with the Salmon-Challis National Forest encourage the public to take steps to help protect against wildfire Always use a campfire ring or fire pan to build a fire, officials said. Never leave a campfire unattended, officials said. All campfires need to be repeatedly doused with water and stirred so that every ember and all hot spots are extinguished dead out. If the campfire appears too hot to sift through by hand, then it is not completely extinguished and it is too hot to leave, officials said. Never shoot into dry vegetation, officials said. Remove chains or any dangling equipment from vehicles and trailers that could put off a spark, officials said. Never park on dry vegetation. Fireworks are always illegal on all public lands, including every campsite in every forest, every day of the year, officials said. Carry a shovel and fire extinguisher. Call 911 or the Central Idaho Fire Dispatch Center at 208-756-5157 to report a wildfire. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Jul. 22BEMIDJI "Ringing through time" is the theme for the Opening Ceremony of the 2025 Bemidji All School Reunion. It will take place at noon on Thursday, July 24, at the arch adjacent to Bemidji High School, 2900 Division St. W. The arch, taken from the old BHS building on 15th Street, was dedicated during the 2022 All School Reunion. The Central School Bell will be placed at BHS during this year's Opening Ceremony. The bell has seen a lot of changes over the years. Central School was where it all began for Bemidji Area Schools. Central School opened in 1899. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One year later, the Bemidji Public School District was formed, with the first high school students graduating in 1903. This bell watched as the district expanded with the building of the new Bemidji High School in 1910, which burned down in 1921. It would continue to see Bemidji Area Schools expand with the building of a new high school in 1922 and would ring proudly until the fateful night of June 24, 1958, when Central School burned down. This bell was then displayed in 1960 with the opening of the new Central Elementary School, where it remained throughout the course of the school's service from 1960 to 2021. It seems fitting that a bell that has been with Bemidji Area Schools from the very beginning should now be placed on the grounds of Bemidji High School near the historic arch from the 1922 Bemidji High School. From this spot, this bell will continue to witness the changes and growth of Bemidji Area Schools. SAFETY FIRST: Chanel on Wednesday expressed its utmost seriousness to the safety of its clients in China following a store quarrel in Hefei, the provincial capital of Anhui, went viral on social media in the past week. Videos of three Chanel Beauty sales associates getting into a fight with a woman in the store at the Hefei MixC shopping mall began to circulate online last Friday. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to local police, the conflict started when a salesperson tried to stop a shopper from taking a video of the product. It then escalated into mutual verbal and physical assaults and attracted a large crowd outside the store. As a result, the Chanel Beauty store was temporarily shut on that day. In a statement shared with WWD, Chanel said this matter has been addressed with the utmost seriousness, in collaboration with the relevant authorities. The brand also reiterated that the welcome and safety of our clients remain an absolute priority. Some of Chinas online spectators believed the incident reflects the brewing anxiety among luxury brands shop floor employees amid a sluggish retail climate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the case of Chanel, a sharp slowdown in luxury spending in mainland China has led to a fall in revenues for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic, with operating profits plummeting 30 percent in 2024. In addition to a hiring freeze, the brand earlier this year confirmed it was cutting 70 roles in the U.S., representing about 2.5 percent of its workforce there. There have also been reports that Chanel plans to slash its headcount in its China head office by 20 percent this year. The French brand denied that claim, clarifying that it was relatively minor adjustments in regions where growth has stalled. Chanel operates about 127 boutiques across China, with 15 new openings last year. The brand said it will continue to open 15 more this year. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The owner of a Charleroi staffing agency was sentenced to prison and ordered to pay millions of dollars in restitution on convictions of harboring illegal aliens for financial gain. Andy Ha, 28, pleaded guilty to harboring illegal aliens for financial gain and failing to pay employment taxes back in February. On Tuesday, he was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment and ordered to pay over $3.6 million in restitution. Prosecutors say Ha owned a temporary staffing agency from September 2022 to April 2024 that provided workers to companies in the Charleroi area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While running the business, investigators say he paid for illegal immigrants to stay at a hotel and transported them to and from their work. Prosecutors also say that Ha only provided tax information for workers legally authorized to be in the country, which represented less than 10% of the workers he employed. This reportedly caused a tax loss of at least $3.1 million. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) Evan Cooper is a local digital creator who shares glimpses of his daily life through short-form video. The Tennessee native moved to Charleston two and a half years ago after deciding it was time to live independently. He explained during an interview on News 2 Now that he found Charlestons proximity to the beach and its community atmosphere appealing. Since then, he has cultivated a large following on social media, using his platform to inspire others and engage in community-based activities. He has partnered with nonprofits and fostered pets from local animal shelters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im very intentional about showing the real human elements of what I do, and as far as getting the community involved, I feel very strongly that this platform I have I believe it has been given to me and I take that responsibility very seriously. If I were to only talk about me, it would not bring me a lot of fulfillment, he said. Cooper added that he finds happiness in bringing others to peace through his unique storytelling and by getting people involved in bigger projects outside of their normal routine. The digital creator recently packed up his vehicle and, along with Vader, embarked on a cross-country trip from Charleston to California. He has since returned to the Lowcountry and is jumping back into partnering with local organizations, and said he was looking forward to giving back to the community he now calls home. You can follow Cooper on his Instagram by searching @evcoop. Advertisement 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 WCBD News 2. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Its hard for me to get clients and customers and students to come to this area, said one business owner during the rally. Sugar Creek area business owners met with other community activists at an open parking lot on Reagan Road Tuesday night, calling for change. This is the community that we are looking to work with, said McDonalds franchise owner. Leaders say Sugar Creek and Reagan Drive are rampant with hard drug usage, trafficking and prostitution. Theyre asking for the citys help to clean up the area. Charles Robinson is pushing for an increased police presence in the neighborhoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You just saw 14 prostitutes walking to the store, so that was right in front of you. We wont have that. And so the officers that are out stopping those cars, stopping the traffic? Then we can begin to figure out a way to clean up the rest of it, Robinson said. He was one of the lead organizers. Robinson also called for judges to help keep offenders off the streets. Charlotte City Councilmember Dante Anderson walked and talked with ralliers about what theyre seeing on the streets. Charlotte City Council Mayor Pro Tem Dante Anderson Anderson says the city is investing millions of dollars as part of its corridors of opportunity to help mitigate the crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve spent millions of dollars to invest in lighting along these streets because we heard that it was too dark and nefarious things were going on, Anderson said. We invested in a program called Safe Biz CLT, where some of the business owners will allow CMPD to tap into their cameras. And so if there are things going on in front of their business on their property, and CMPD can see that remotely from their offices, and then dispatch people as they see fit. Robinson was encouraged by the number of people at Tuesday nights rally, but he was hoping to see more, especially city and county leaders. He says they are the ones who could really make a difference. Today was a start. We ignited a fire. Weve been fighting for too long to get relief, and so this is just day one, Robinson said. Advertisement 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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A charter school run by a private online school State Superintendent Ryan Walters claims to have partnered the Oklahoma State Department of Education withis facing a potential shutdown in Arizona, where state officials say the schools students are performing so poorly it may no longer be allowed to operate. In a social media video Tuesday, Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters claimed he had entered the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) into a partnership with American Virtual Academya private, online school. Critic says arguing merits of Walters controversial ideas gives them unearned legitimacy However, an online charter school American Virtual Academy operates in Arizona has received multiple failing grades, prompting the states charter school board to begin the process of banning it from operating in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his video, Walters claimed the partnership was part of an effort to instill conservative political values in Oklahoma public school students. Were very proud to partner with American Virtual Academy, Walters said in a social media video posted Tuesday. Were gonna get back to the basics here in Oklahoma. We will continue to fight back against a woke, liberal agenda in our schools. State Superintendent Walters asks Oklahoma Supreme Court to lift stay on school Bible purchases A Tuesday press release from Walters office did not include any specifics about how a partnership between OSDE and American Virtual Academy would work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release claimed American Virtual Academy is working on getting approved for Oklahomas Parental Choice Tax Credit programa voucher-like system which gives families state tax dollars to send their kids to private schools. As News 4 has reported, a significant number of the families benefitting from the program already make well above Oklahomas median income. On its website, American Virtual Academy calls itself a conservative online private school. Its obvious nobodys watching: Former GOP lawmaker says Republicans failing to hold Walters accountable amid massive staff payments It is based in Goodyear, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Arizona, American Virtual Academy also operates an online charter school called Primavera Online School. Primavera faced heavy scrutiny recently from Arizona state officials after its students test scores continually declined over a multi-year period. Right now, its in litigation about whether they will shut them down or not, said Craig Harris, an investigative reporter at KPNX, the NBC affiliate in Phoenix. The school got three consecutive letter grades of a D. Their academics in math and in reading are whats among the worst in the state. Their graduation rates are among the worst in the state. New records reveal even more unexplained five-figure payouts to Ryan Walters chief of staff Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, KPNX reported Arizonas State Charter School Board unanimously voted to begin the process of shutting Primavera down. Harris said the unanimous nature of the vote was significant given the makeup of the board. The board is dominated by appointees from a conservative Republican, Doug Ducey, who is kind of the poster child, so to speak, for school choice, Harris said. Harris and KPNX also reported, in the lead-up to the charter school boards vote, Primavera promised students $500 scholarships if they wrote essays about how the school had helped them succeed, leading up to that vote. The schools founder is Damian Creamer. He proudly shared Ryan Walters video announcing OSDEs apparent partnership with American Virtual Academy on his X account Tuesday and commented, Huge win. It would never have passed Some Oklahoma lawmakers say private school tax credit system not operating as expected In his X accounts bio, Creamer describes himself as a school choice champion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His account often shares or writes supportive comments on posts from far-right political activists who support the use of tax dollars on private schools. Public records show Creamer is a frequent donor to mostly Republican political candidates, who also happen to support so-called school choice efforts. Harris and KPNX reported Creamer commanded quite a hefty taxpayer-funded salary in his role leading Primavera Online School. He paid himself $24 million during the same six-year period where his school was starting to not do well and have poor grades, Harris said. He says Creamer also runs a non-profit called Verano Learning Partners. Harris and KPNX reported, in 2017, Verano Learning Partners partnered with another non-profit to buy a private jet worth over $1 million, which they later sold. Most Private School Tax Credit recipients came from families making $75K+ OSDEs Tuesday press release included a quote from Verano Learning Partners executive director, saying: We are thrilled to work with OSDE to provide Oklahoma parents with a pro-American, patriotic education for their children. The press release also identified that person as a corporate partner with American Virtual Academy. School districts say Walters claims of massive budget surpluses are verifiably false, damaging to public education Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 4 had questions for the school and called American Virtual Academy at its only listed number on Tuesday. Records: State paid former OSDE spokesperson more than $75k in final paycheck News 4 asked the person who answered if American Virtual Academy was expanding to Oklahoma. Um, yeah, were expanding everywhere, the person responded. The person told News 4, right now, American Virtual Academy has around 100 students enrolled nationwide, but plans for that number to rapidly grow as they expand. The person claimed not to know that American Virtual Academy also runs Primavera Online School when News 4 asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records: Walters, advisors continue billing taxpayers thousands for travel to partisan events, retreats, media appearances I dont know, the person said. Were just a private school. I dont, I dont know anything about that. The person told News 4 hed have one of American Virtual Academys spokespeople call News 4 back to better answer News 4s questions. Nobody ever called. Another person with questions is State Representative Melissa Provenzano (D-Tulsa). I think top of mind is, why is the state superintendent of public instruction involving himself in a private school operation or partnership, Provenzano said. I wondered if the Oklahoma State School Board has been made aware what the superintendent imagines that a partnership looks like, and has there been a contract signed? She said she sees it as nothing more than another political stunt by a man she says is just using his state platform to make unenforceable promises in an effort to promote himself. I think its an attention grabber, Provenzano said. I feel like theres a set of words that he needs to work into any press release, his handlers have told him. Generally, that sort of language is what lays on top of something that is not what it seems. So we will see. Former Republican State Representative Mark McBride, who chaired the Oklahoma House education committee until he termed out of office last year, told News 4 he would like his colleagues who still serve in the legislature to scrutinize Walters claimed partnership with American Virtual Academy, and hold him accountable if warranted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan Walters cant just funnel state funds to a private online school without the Legislatures approval, McBride wrote to News 4. As State Superintendent, he can promote programs and recommend partnershipsbut he cant legally mandate funding or decide where tax dollars go on his own. Thats up to the Legislature. If this partnership with American Virtual Academy involves state tax credit money, there has to be a law already on the books authorizing itand it better be clear who qualifies and whos overseeing it. The Superintendent doesnt get to make that call by himself. And lets be honestthis group, Verano Learning Partners, is tied to a school in Arizona thats under investigation and might be shut down for failing students and mismanaging money. If Walters is trying to bring that same outfit into Oklahoma without proper oversight, thats a big problem. At the very least, this deserves scrutiny from lawmakers and parents before we start handing out tax dollars in the name of patriotism. Partnering with a failing out-of-state company behind closed doors isnt school choiceits a political stunt. Records suggest previous business, personal relationship between top OSDE advisor, contractor On Tuesday, News 4 reached out to Walters office with the following set of questions: Can you explain what exactly OSDEs partnership with the school entails? Are they working with you on anything in particular? Does OSDEs relationship with this school differ somehow from its relationship with any other private school? Is Supt. Walters aware the state of Arizona banned a charter school AVA runs from opening in the state because its students repeatedly achieved poor grades? (SOURCE: https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/arizona-charter-board-votes-to-shut-down-online-school-primavera-damian-creamer/75-f2f71fe3-65b4-4295-94fc-3df20f7dd602 ) Does Supt. Walters find that concerning? AVAs founder argued his school should be allowed to operate under lower, less-rigorous grading standards than traditional public schools because its an alternative model. Does Supt. Walters agree with this? (SOURCE: https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/arizona-charter-board-votes-to-shut-down-online-school-primavera-damian-creamer/75-f2f71fe3-65b4-4295-94fc-3df20f7dd602 ) The state of Arizona voted to shut down the school after learning its founder paid himself $24 million in taxpayer dollars, followed by three years of plummeting academic performance. Does Supt. Walters find this concerning? (SOURCE: https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/arizona-charter-board-votes-to-shut-down-online-school-primavera-damian-creamer/75-f2f71fe3-65b4-4295-94fc-3df20f7dd602 ) Does OSDE have any sort of contract or formal agreement outlining its partnership with AVA? Is OSDE paying AVA as part of this partnership? Has Supt. Walters ever accepted funds in a personal or campaign capacity from Damian Creamer? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody at OSDE responded to News 4s questions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Goldman Sachs (GS) and the Bank of New York Mellon (BK) are teaming up to make it easier for institutional investors to trade money market funds 24/7 by using blockchain technology to "tokenize" the assets. The collaboration between the Wall Street investment giant and a 241-year-old bank founded by Alexander Hamilton is the latest example of how venerable financial firms are pushing further into the digital asset realm as the crypto industry gains more favorable regulatory treatment in Washington, D.C. Goldman Sachs and Bank of New York Mellon will use a proprietary tokenization platform developed by Goldman to maintain the record-keeping of select Bank of New York Mellon money market funds. Money managers BlackRock (BLK), Federated Hermes, and Fidelity Investments have also signed up for the launch. A Bank of New York Mellon office in New York City. (Reuters/David 'Dee' Delgado/File Photo) Reuters / Reuters Proponents see the value of putting money markets on blockchains as coming down to raw efficiency, where time and, therefore, costs of transferring interest-bearing cash instruments could be reduced. In that way, they serve the same purpose as interest-bearing, dollar-pegged stablecoins. A big use for these assets within the crypto world is via cryptocurrency exchanges that accept shares of tokenized money market funds as collateral for loans. "As the financial system transitions toward a more digital, real-time architecture, BNY is committed to enabling scalable and secure solutions that shape the future of finance," Laide Majiyagbe, BNY's global head of liquidity, financing, and collateral, said in a statement with the press release. Read more: Can you buy crypto with a credit card? See the pros and cons. Majiyagbe called the effort with Goldman Sachs "a first step." The company will not solely rely on a blockchain for record-keeping. Instead, BNY will still maintain the official books, records, and settlement for the funds within the current guidelines for money market funds. The attention for Goldman's tokenization platform, known as GS DAP, comes roughly half a year after the Wall Street bank announced its intent to potentially spin it out as a "an industry-owned distributed technology solution." That ambition is "still in progress," according to a Goldman Sachs spokesperson. The Goldman Sachs headquarters building in Manhattan. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Spencer Platt via Getty Images "We are excited about this strategic collaboration with BNY in our journey towards the longer-term vision," Goldman Sachs head of digital assets Mathew McDermott said of the tokenization platform in a statement with the press release. As of now, there are more than 40 tokenized money market funds, though most of them have less than $1 billion in assets, according to JPMorgan Asset Management's Teresa Ho Kim. BlackRock's $2.4 billion BUIDL fund represents roughly half of the nearly $5 billion market. CHICAGO (WGN) Chicago police have issued a warning to businesses after 10 businesses were burglarized over the last several weeks. The incidents happened primarily in the Austin, North Lawndale, Belmont Cragin and River North neighborhoods. 2-year-old girl abducted from apartment during home invasion on South Side Police said the incidents happened at the following times and locations: 3900 block of W Ogden St. on June 2, 2025 at 3:36 AM. (Ogden) 5600 block of W Roosevelt St. on June 6, 2025 at 2:12 AM. (Austin) 5100 block of W Grand St. on June 6, 2025 at 3:05 AM. (Grand Central) 5800 block of W Roosevelt St. on July 7, 2025 at 4:04 AM. (Austin) 5300 block of W Division St. on July 7, 2025 at 3:18 AM. (Grand Central) 3600 block of W 16th St. on July 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM. (Ogden) 1600 block of W. North Ave. on July 20, 2025 at 5:13 AM. (Shakespeare) 800 block of N. Orleans St. on July 21, 2025 at 2:40 AM. (Near North) 300 Block of W. Chicago Ave. on July 21, 2025 at 4:28 AM. (Near North) 5400 block of W. Madison Ave. on July 22, 2025 at 5:00 AM. (Grand Central) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During each incident, the suspects drive up to the location and use a blunt object to break the window or door glass. The suspects then go inside, take cash from the cash register and either steal the ATM or force it open to take money inside, according to investigators. Police added in most instances, the suspects load the ATM into their vehicle and drive off. Detectives described the suspects as two to four males wearing black masks and black clothing. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Anyone with information is asked to call Area Four Detectives at 312-746-8253 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com and use reference #25-CWP-022C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional tips from CPD: Never confront the subject, or pursue a fleeing assailant. Remember any unique physical characteristics of the offender (scars, limp, acne, teeth, etc.) If video surveillance is available, save and make a copy of the incident for the investigating detectives. If approached by a witness to the incident, request contact information. Dial 9-1-1 immediately and remain on scene when possible. If you are a victim, please do not touch anything until police arrive. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. CHICAGO (WGN) An Illinois landmark and transportation hub will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary. Chicagos Union Station, dedicated as Americas Finest Railroad Terminal on July 23, 1925, will celebrate its centennial birthday on Wednesday. A day before the milestone, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, along with other national and state officials, gathered to celebrate, touting the transit hubs significance to the Midwest and the nation as a whole. More than just a symbol of the power and the spirit of Chicago, Union Station is the center of the most important rail hub in America for Amtrak, freight, and commercial rail, Pritzker said. [Tuesdays] Centennial Celebration is a testament to what this place has meant to our nation and our people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, Union Station has undergone nearly $70 million worth of renovation and upgrades. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Union Station is the third busiest rail terminal in 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 WGN-TV. CHICOPEE Almost a decade ago, Chicopee was the city hardest hit by heroin overdoses in Western Massachusetts. Harm reduction specialists say that, while heroin is much less prevalent in Chicopee today than fentanyl and combination drugs, overdose rates are still high. There are new substances on the street that traditional overdose reversal methods, like Narcan, dont help with. Meanwhile, Chicopee leadership attests to making broad efforts to reduce overdose rates by working with city departments to ensure members of the public are educated about substance use and partnering with local advocates to provide resources to people in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent statistics from the Hampden County Addiction Task Force, which is made up of members of the Hampden District Attorneys Office and the Hampden County Sheriffs Department, show the city ranked second behind Springfield last year accounting for 18% of 651 fatal and non-fatal overdoses in across the county. Most of the overdoses last year happened in the countys five bigger cities: Springfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, Westfield and West Springfield, the data shows. The District Attorneys Office did not respond to specific questions about drug use in Chicopee and that citys overdose rate compared to Holyoke and Springfield. However, the office did share that Chicopees fatal overdose rate within the first six months of 2025 is down 55%, compared to the first six months of last year. The citys nonfatal overdose rate is down 48% for the same time frame compared to last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antonio Roman, harm reduction program manager for Tapestry Health, works directly with affected populations in Chicopee and West Springfield. I see a lot of folks from Chicopee every day. That number doesnt surprise me, said Roman. But in some ways, he said, Chicopees experience with the opioid crisis is unlike that of Springfield and Holyoke, to which it is often compared. Its not an open-market town, he said, meaning drug use is predominantly indoors or in private. Roman said thats likely because of stigmas within Chicopees family-oriented culture. You wouldnt see where people are using drugs it would be places like their home or cars, rather than on the street," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the three cities, Chicopee is the most recent to pass and implement a safe syringe access program. The program, approved in 2019, allows a space for people who use drugs to safely exchange needles. Discussions of adopting the program in Chicopee began after a child found a used hypodermic needle in a park, two years after the citys harrowing spike of heroin overdoses. Holyoke was the first to approve the program, in 2012, followed by Springfield, where the City Council approved it in a unanimous vote in 2018. Addressing the crisis After John Vieau became the mayor of Chicopee in 2020, he developed initiatives that address the crisis, his administration said in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Vieau was not available for an interview, his office emailed information about efforts he and other city officials have implemented over the last few years. Vacant police positions have been filled, for example, allowing for school resource officers in the Chicopee Public Schools. The mayor recently asked the School Department to provide more substance-use counselors throughout the district to help with prevention, the statement said. Opioid settlement funds will be used for the effort. The Police Department works with the Sheriffs Department and local advocates to provide resources to individuals in need, according to Officer Travis Odiorne, public information officer for the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that, since officers started carrying naloxone, which helps reverse an opioid overdose, the likelihood of overdoses being reversed has significantly increased. Close to 29,000 naloxone kits were received within a 20-mile radius of Chicopee last year, according to data from the state Department of Public Health. Dr. Ari Kriegsman, medical director of the Behavioral Health Network detox facility and methadone clinic in Springfield, said most of the overdoses he sees in patients are from fentanyl. But there is a growing concern about combined drugs. We see a lot of xylazine and other additives, he said. Patients are telling us that they dont like it, because the high doesnt last long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drug combinations, he said, are not always reversible using naloxone, and are more dangerous because of their unpredictability. Stronger and longer-lasting drugs are also being mixed in, including sedatives like medetomidine, the Massachusetts Drug Supply Data Stream reported this month. This veterinary sedative, first detected in Philadelphia in 2024, began appearing in Massachusetts by that summer and is now found statewide, especially in central and western regions, said Payton North, communications director for the DAs office. Harm reduction programs are now distributing test strips and issuing alerts to raise awareness and reduce risk. Marlyn Velazquez, quality assurance coordinator for WestComm Regional Dispatch, said dispatchers get calls about overdoses one to two times a day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of the dispatchers who work at the regional service are trained and certified to take all calls, including providing support to a caller concerned that a loved one is overdosing. Most people already have Narcan when they call, she said. We assess the patients condition and ask questions like if they are awake, breathing, how old they are and what they took. We also ask the caller if the overdose was intentional or accidental to gauge if the patient was trying to harm themself." Reducing stigma Kriegsman, the addiction specialist at Behavioral Health Network, said more can be done to reduce the stigmas around addiction and treatment. We have made progress, but there is still a long way to go, he said. He said more clinics should be staffed with methadone to lower barriers and ease treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Methadone, a medication that helps people overcome fentanyl overdose, is only dispensed at specialized opioid treatment programs at this point, he explained. With clinics that are in place already, Kriegsman said he hopes methadone can be made more accessible, which can be done by expanding clinic hours, accepting walk-in patients daily, and allowing patients more freedom by permitting take-home doses rather than making them travel each day to the clinic. The more places that operate with methadone, the more people will have same-day access, he said, explaining people are 50% less likely to die from opioids with methadone treatment. more news from Western Massachusetts Read the original article on MassLive. ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A shooting incident occurred during a child custody exchange in Rowan County, resulting in a victim being transported to the hospital with multiple gunshot wounds. According to the report, a patient was transported in a personally owned vehicle to Novant Hospital in Salisbury with apparent gunshot wounds. Information obtained at the hospital led deputies to determine that a shooting had taken place on Grants Creek Road. When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered Melvin and Raynard Bookhart. Both were escorted outside of the crime scene and agreed to speak with investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators discovered several firearms in the residence, along with ammunition. The shooting incident allegedly took place during a child custody exchange, at which time an altercation took place between Melvin Bookhart and the victim. At some point during the altercation, shots were fired, which resulted in the victim being struck multiple times. It was also discovered that both Melvin Bookhart and Raynard Bookhart were convicted felons. Both were charged with possession of a firearm by convicted felon, and Melvin was also charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious bodily injury. The victim was eventually transported from Novant Health Rowan Medical Center to Presbyterian Hospital for further treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, the investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to reach out to Detective D. Fero or Detective Sgt. K. Holshouser or contact Rowan County Crime Stoppers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. A pediatric patient in a South Carolina hospital has died from a rare brain-eating amoeba. The Prisma Health Children's Hospital patient recently died after contracting Naegleria fowleri, which infects the brain and destroys tissue, Pediatric Infectious Disease Physician Anna Kathryn Burch said Tuesday. The hospital declined to share more details about the patient, and officials have not said where the infection occurred. State authorities say there is no broader risk to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A case of Naegleria fowleri was confirmed in South Carolina during the week of July 7, according to the states Department of Public Health. There have been only 167 reported cases of the infection in the US between 1962 and 2024, the CDC reports. However, just four people have survived the infection. The CDC does not track infections from the amoeba, nor does it provide information about or comment on individual cases, DPS told WIS in a statement. A child in South Carlonina has died from Naegleria fowleri , also known as a brain-eating amoeba. (CDC/Dr. James Roberts, Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta) Naegleria fowleri naturally lives in warm freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, hot springs, and poorly maintained or unchlorinated pools. It thrives in temperatures between 80 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit and is more prevalent in the warmer months, especially in southern states. People become infected when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, typically while swimming or diving in warm freshwater. Once in the nose, the amoeba travels to the brain, where it causes a severe and often fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Naegleria fowleri cannot infect a person if the water is swallowed, and it does not spread from person to person. This isnt the first death involving Naegleria fowleri this year. In May, a previously-healthy 71-year-old woman from Texas died from an infection caused by the amoeba after using tap water from her RV in a nasal irrigation device. Infection is extremely rare otherwise - but it is almost always fatal. Symptoms usually begin within one to 12 days of exposure and may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, and altered mental state. To reduce risk, experts advise avoiding freshwater activities during high temperatures, using nose clips, and avoiding putting your head underwater in warm freshwater. The Independent has contacted the DPS and CDC for comment. VILLA BAVIERA (Reuters) -Chile plans to expropriate a settlement founded by a German cult leader where torture took place during former dictator Augusto Pinochet's military regime as the government takes another step to shine a light on a dark period of the past. The enclave, originally called Colonia Dignidad and renamed Villa Baviera, was founded in 1961 by Paul Schafer, a former Nazi medic turned evangelical preacher who kept the isolated community under tight control and was later jailed for sexually abusing children. During Pinochet's 1973-1990 dictatorship, Colonia Dignidad also bore witness to another kind of abuse: the torture of political prisoners by military forces in a secret prison at the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schafer collaborated with Pinochet's secret police and in exchange was shielded for years from prosecution for his own crimes. The dictatorship viewed the secretive, fortified and remote community as an ideal site to detain and torture dissidents away from public view. The government now wants to turn the 290-acre (117-hectare) community into a memorial, Justice Minister Jaime Gajardo said at an event this month. The aim is to make it "a place that allows all Chileans to enter freely to learn about what happened there," Gajardo said. "Nothing justifies violating human rights as they were violated during the military dictatorship." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schafer died in prison in 2010. Several hundred families once lived at the settlement about 350 kilometers (217 mi) south of Santiago. Today the population numbers closer to 100, many of whom are descendants of the original German settlers. Businesses at Villa Baviera, or Bavarian Village, have tried in recent years to attract visitors to the area's picturesque green fields and views of snow-capped mountains. In the expropriation, property owners will be compensated under terms still to be determined by experts, Gajardo said. The government aims to complete the expropriation before President Gabriel Boric leaves office in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The justice minister said the community consists of about 90 land parcels but did not specify the number of businesses or residents. PAINFUL PAST Dozens of physically and mentally traumatized members of Colonia Dignidad eventually relocated to Germany, and the site's history drew international attention in the 2015 film "Colonia." Plans for the expropriation underscore the challenges for governments in coming to terms with complicated histories in places that have overlapping layers of rights abuses. Chile's National Institute of Human Rights in a recent report said those who were tortured by Pinochet's forces as well as the people who suffered under Schaefer's control were equally victims of Colonia Dignidad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jose Patricio Schmidt, who grew up in Colonia Dignidad and still lives there, said residents had existed in a bubble, unaware of the dictatorship's abuses. "Schaefer would gather us together to read the Bible in a place about a kilometer from where people were tortured, and we knew nothing," he said in an interview at a memorial site in the community that pays tribute to the torture victims. Tens of thousands of people were arrested and tortured throughout Chile during Pinochet's rule, and 1,469 people were victims of forced disappearance. Some have criticized the government's move to take away property from current Villa Baviera community members, especially those who were themselves victims of abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Juergen Szurgeleis in an interview said he tried as a boy to escape forced labor and abuse at Colonia Dignidad. "Is it my fault for being born here?" he said. "And now they want to take away my land and leave me in the street?" Yet a former political prisoner at Colonia Dignidad, Luis Jaque, said he struggles to see how the community, which includes a German restaurant and a hotel catering to tourists, can carry on without recognizing the horrors of the past. "It's not reconcilable, at least not for me," he said. (Reporting by Nicolas Cortes in Villa Baviera and Santiago; Writing by Leila Miller and Fabian Cambero; Editing by Daina Beth Solomon and Cynthia Osterman) Sirens Curse, the newest rollercoaster experienced its second in-ride malfunction, nearly one month after its opening debut. On Saturday, July 19, the newest attraction at Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio, encountered an incident during its signature tilt moment, where passengers are slowly tilted forward and face straight down from 160 feet. The attraction stopped mid-rotation at a 45-degree angle for about 20 minutes. Once the issue was resolved, those on board continued along the nearly 3,000 feet of twists and turns with a top speed of 58 miles per hour. Cedar Point/YouTube Cedar Point Siren's Curse Roller Coaster stuck in air on June 28, 2025 Cedar Point Siren's Curse Roller Coaster stuck in air on June 28, 2025 The park did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment, but spokesman Tony Clark told the Akron Beacon Journal, The coasters safety system performed as designed, the ride was restarted, and guests continued their ride. It reopened shortly after and all guests exited the ride safely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt the first time Sirens Curse has experienced a malfunction with riders aboard. On Saturday, June 28, the opening day of the new coaster, a similar incident occurred, where riders were stuck for nearly 10 minutes in the tilt position. A viral video from Fye Coasters capturing the hair-raising scene circulated online. At the time, Clark provided PEOPLE with the same statement related to the recent incident, adding that the ride experienced a delay that paused the rides operation. Courtesy of Cedar Point; fyecoasters/TikTok On July 2, a malfunction happened again, but before the tilt began, forcing passengers to walk down the rides evacuation stairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To this incident, Clark stated, similarly, as reported by Akron Beacon Journal, (The coaster's) safety system performed as designed, but the ride could not be restarted. Guests were safely escorted off the ride. Sirens Curse was first announced in September 2024, and was promoted as the tallest, fastest and longest tilt roller coaster in North America. The attraction officially opened to the public on June 28 and features 2,966 feet of track, 13 weightless airtime moments, two 360-degree, zero-gravity barrel rolls and a triple-down element with twisted and "overbanked" track, experienced at the top speed of 58 mph. Read the original article on People China has started construction of what would be the world's largest hydropower dam. Chinese Premier Li Qiang on July 19 led a ceremony marking groundbreaking for the Motuo Hydropower Station, a project with an estimated cost of $167 billion that could generate as much as three times the electricity of the 22.5-GW Three Gorges project. Three Gorges, currently the world's largest hydro installation, achieved full commercial operation in 2012. Officials have said the Motuo facility, with planned generation capacity of more than 60 GW, could produce 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. It is being built within a section of the Yarlung Tsangpo river, where the waterway drops more than 6,500 feet in a span of 31 miles, which officials have said offers huge hydropower potential. The Motuo project has sparked concerns about how the new dam could enable China to control the Yarlung Tsangpo river, which flows south into India and also Bangladesh. Those concerns particularly include how China's control of the river could impact India's economy. The river runs through Tibet, and also the Arunachal Pradesh state of India. It is the longest river in Tibet and the fifth longest in China. Li on Saturday called the hydropower station a "project of the century." The premier said China is emphasizing "ecological conservation to prevent environmental damage" from the project. Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu, speaking with the PTI news agency earlier this month, said the Siang and Brahmaputra rivers, which flow from Yarlung Tsangpo in India, could "dry up considerably" once the dam was completed. Khandu told PTI the dam "going to cause an existential threat to our tribes and our livelihoods. It is quite serious because China could even use this as a sort of 'water bomb'." "Suppose the dam is built and they suddenly release water, our entire Siang belt would be destroyed," Khandu said. "In particular, the Adi tribe and similar groups ... would see all their property, land, and especially human life, suffer devastating effects." Officials with India's government have talked with Chinese officials about the dam's potential impacts, emphasizing the "need for transparency and consultation with downstream countries," according to news reports. India has its own plans to build a hydropower dam on the Siang river. Officials have said that installation could provide a buffer against sudden water releases from the Motuo, and also serve as a flood control measure. China has long said it has a right to dam the Yarlung Tsangpo, and officials also have said the project is being built with consideration for downstream impacts. Chinese officials have not indicated how many people the project would displace. Some groups, including the International Campaign for Tibet, have said the dam will have a major negative impact on the Tibetan plateau. They argue that millions of people downstream of the project will be impacted. The Motuo project would be built along the Yarlung Tsangpo in a large canyon, where the river makes a turn around the Namcha Barwa mountain. The area, called the "Great Bend," is a location where the river as noted earlier drops hundreds of feet in elevation. Reports have said the project would include several tunnels, as long as 20 kilometers (12.4 miles), through the mountain that would divert the river. A recent report from the Xinhua news service said engineers would work to straighten the river and "diver water through tunnels" to five power stations. Xinhua also said the dam's power would be used in Tibet, but primarily would be delivered to other areas of China, as part of the country's efforts to produce power in western regions that would be used in the country's larger cities in the eastern part of China. The Yarlung Zangbo becomes the Brahmaputra river as it leaves Tibet and flows south into Indias Arunachal Pradesh and Assam states and finally into Bangladesh. "The construction of the Yarlung Zangbo hydropower project is a matter within the scope of China's sovereign affairs," China's foreign ministry said in a statement issued July 22. "China has also conducted necessary communication with downstream countries regarding hydrological information, flood control, and disaster mitigation cooperation related to the Yarlung Zangbo project." Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER. TAIPEI (Reuters) -China is "clearly" trying to interfere in Taiwan's democracy and it is up to Taiwan's people to decide who should be removed from or stay in office, the island's government said on Wednesday ahead of a recall vote for around one-fifth of lawmakers. On Saturday, Taiwan voters will decide on the fate of 24 lawmakers from Taiwan's largest opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), in a recall campaign started by civic groups who accuse the lawmakers of cozying up to Beijing, which views the island as its own territory. The KMT denies being pro-Beijing, but says it needs to keep lines of communication with China open, and has denounced the recalls as a "malicious" attack on democracy that does not respect the results of last year's parliamentary election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's Taiwan Affairs Office and Chinese state media have repeatedly commented on the recall vote and used some of the same talking points as the Kuomintang, Reuters reported this week. In a post on Facebook citing the Reuters report and research by Taiwan's IORG, which analyses Chinese state media reports, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said it "rejects the Chinese Communist Party's intervention". "The Chinese Communist Party's attempt to interfere with Taiwan's democratic operation is evident and clear," it said. "Recall in Taiwan is a civil right guaranteed by the constitution, and it is up to the people of Taiwan to decide who should or should not be removed from office." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not respond to a request for comment. It has also not responded to questions submitted last week by Reuters about the recall and whether China was seeking to interfere in the outcome. The recall campaign has been happening against a backdrop of China ramping up its own military and diplomatic pressure campaign against Taiwan to assert territorial claims that Taiwan resolutely rejects. (Reporting By Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard; Editing by Stephen Coates) This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. Over the past half-century, China-EU relations have withstood the tests of global changes and maintained a stable momentum of development. This enduring partnership has strongly supported mutual progress and brought tangible benefits to nearly two billion people in China and Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prospects for pragmatic China-EU cooperation remain broad. As China advances toward high-quality development and actively boosts domestic demand, European businesses are finding ample space to expand in the Chinese market. A large number of EU companies have invested in China, witnessing the countrys reform and opening-up as well as the development of Chinese modernisation, while also reaping substantial returns. In the early 1980s, German automobile manufacturers were among the first to seize market opportunities by investing and building factories in China. Today, brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen derive over 30% of their global sales from the Chinese market, with profits in China reaching up to 30 times those earned in their domestic markets. In sectors such as chemicals, optics, aerospace and aviation, European products account for more than 30% and in some cases over 50% of Chinas total imports. In Europe, Chinese companies have leveraged their infrastructure strengths, utilising EU funds and complying with EU standards to deliver the 2,440-metre-long Peljesac Bridge in Croatia with high quality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hungary-Serbia Railway, Chinas first high-speed rail project in Europe, increased the local train speed from 50 km/h to 200 km/h, creating a fast track for improving the quality of life for local communities. New stage for China's investment in Europe Chinas investment in Europe has entered a new stage. Since the early 2000s and accelerating after 2009, Chinas cumulative investment in Europe has exceeded $100 billion, and annual investment flows are now roughly on par with EU investment in China. By the end of 2023, China had established over 2,800 directly invested businesses across all 27 EU member states, employing more than 270,000 local workers. Since the establishment of the China-CEEC cooperation mechanism in 2012, Chinese enterprises have shown strong interest in investing in Central and Eastern European countries across a wide range of sectors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to incomplete statistics, total investment has exceeded $24 billion. For example, the acquisition of Volvo by a Chinese company revitalised the Swedish automaker and enabled its strong growth, with global sales rising from 374,000 units in 2010 to 763,400 in 2024. Similarly, the Piraeus Port in Greece, revitalised through Chinese investment, has emerged from crisis and decline to regain vitality. It now ranks as the fourth-largest port in Europe following Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg. The project has created 4,300 direct local jobs and generated 1.4 billion in economic output, accounting for approximately 1% of Greeces GDP. It stands as a vivid example of China-EU solidarity in times of difficulty and a model project under the Belt and Road Initiative. China-EU green cooperation contributes to the economic transformation of both sides. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the 20th anniversary of the China-EU Climate Change Partnership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two sides have achieved fruitful results in cooperation in areas such as environment, energy, circular economy, and water resources, effectively advancing respective green and low-carbon development while making positive contributions to global sustainable development. In recent years, Chinas electric vehicle and new energy battery industries have become key drivers of a new wave of investment in Europe, further strengthening the bonds of cooperation and injecting strong momentum into China-EU collaboration in the green and low-carbon sector. Companies such as CATL and Gotion High-Tech have established factories in Europe, providing localised support to European automakers and promoting joint progress toward a green transition. In Southern Europe, China and Portugal have deepened cooperation in the photovoltaic and lithium battery sectors, supporting Portugals goal of achieving 22 GW of solar installed capacity by 2030. In northern Europe, a China-Finland joint venture is set to launch Finlands first lithium battery materials plant, expected to begin operations in 2027. China has built the worlds largest and most environmentally friendly car carrier, as well as the worlds first 7,500-cubic-meter liquid CO2transport ship for Norway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Sinopec Green Energy Geothermal Development, a China-Iceland joint venture, has developed multiple smoke-free cities in China through geothermal heating. In central and eastern Europe, multiple Chinese electric vehicle and power battery companies, both upstream and downstream, have established manufacturing facilities. A growing number of sustainable energy projects involving Chinese enterprises are increasingly delivering environmental benefits. Projects such as the Ivovik Wind Farm in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Korl at Solar Park Croatias largest photovoltaic power project and a solar power station in southeastern Romania are all helping reshape local energy mixes. In China, Volkswagen Anhui has integrated the zero-waste concept across its entire production process, contributing to Chinas pursuit of sustainable development and harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. Scientific and technological cooperation steadily advancing China-EU scientific and technological cooperation is advancing steadily. The Chinese government remains committed to an open and innovation-driven policy, expanding international scientific and technological cooperation and prioritising the EU as a key partner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ChinaFrance nuclear cooperation began in 1982 and has made notable progress in fusion research in recent years. ChinaItaly collaboration on SME innovation, ChinaGermany cooperation in smart manufacturing and autonomous driving have all produced concrete results. The high-level dialogue established between China and the EU in the digital field aims to jointly promote digital transformation and economic growth. China is actively engaged in dialogue with the UK and France on artificial intelligence, working together to promote inclusive AI development for good and for all. ChinaEU cooperation in aerospace has also been fruitful. In 2024, the Change-6 mission successfully landed on the Moon carrying the European Space Agencys lunar surface negative ion analyser, Frances radon gas detector, and Italys laser retroreflector, marking the first discovery of negative ions on the Moon. China has also approved requests from France and five other European countries to access lunar samples returned by Chinese lunar exploration missions for joint scientific research that benefits all humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, China and multiple EU countries, through platforms such as intergovernmental science and technology cooperation committees, are jointly supporting flagship research projects in diverse fields, including agriculture, food and biotechnology, climate change, and biodiversity. These initiatives continue to deliver outcomes that help contribute to sustainable development. Mutual success delivers benefits to people on both sides China and the EU have achieved mutual success with practical cooperation, delivering benefits to people on both sides. With deeper high-level opening-up, China places greater emphasis on meeting the growing needs of its people for a better life. European products such as dairy from Ireland and the Netherlands and olive oil from Spain have become part of the daily lives of Chinese consumers. The From French farms to Chinese tables initiative has become a signature of China-France cooperation, enriching Chinese palates while delivering tangible benefits to French farmers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related The China-EU Geographical Indications (GI) Agreement is the first comprehensive and high-level bilateral agreement on GI protection that China has signed, marking a milestone in China-EU cooperation on intellectual property rights. Since its entry into force, premium products like Anji white tea, Jinhua ham, Zhouzhi kiwifruit, and French champagne have entered each others markets, helping preserve cultural and natural heritage and injecting new momentum into deeper China-EU collaboration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of June this year, the China-Europe Railway Express had operated over 110,000 trips, transporting goods worth more than $450 billion and connecting 229 cities across 26 European countries, significantly enhancing connectivity across the Eurasian continent. His Excellency Ambassador Cai Run is Head of the Chinese Mission to the EU. Protectionism is the enemy of innovation, a Detroit auto executive told me recently, as we discussed how President Donald Trumps policies threaten the industry at a time when carmakers must transition to new technology. Automakers must be careful about saying things like this to avoid Trumps wrath which is our reality, even if it is a silly way to run a business and a country. But, unless everybody who knows the auto industry is wrong, two huge truths loom for Detroit: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auto tech is moving rapidly toward electric cars. While politics has hampered U.S. progress, the dominance of EVs is as inevitable as was the adoption of cars a bit over a century ago. (This was doubted in the 1890s, at the peak of bicycle popularity in the United States. The horseless carriage will never come into as common use as the bicycle, the Literary Digest declared in 1899, four years before the founding of Ford Motor Co.) China is producing affordable, advanced EVs, and quickly. While 100% tariffs imposed on these cars by then-President Joe Biden keep them out of the United States for now, it wont last. The U.S.-built 2025 Volvo EX90 EV is rated at up to 310 miles on a charge. Prices start at $79,995. Missing out and falling behind Ford Vice Chairman Jon Lawler put it bluntly at the Bank of America Securities 2025 Automotive Summit in May: I dont know what the timeframe is, but I dont think we can say 'no, theyre not going to come to the U.S.' Analysts agree. Think of the Japanese invasion of the 1970s and 80s, but at the speed of 21st century commerce. From 1970 to 1990, Asian cars grew from about 3% of U.S. market share to 27%, at one point costing a third of U.S. autoworkers their jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China last year produced 70% of the 17.3 million EVs manufactured globally. U.S. automakers produced only about 1 million. The auto industry is global Ford, General Motors and Stellantis cannot count solely on U.S. sales to be successful companies. As our companies lag in EV advancement and production, they are already losing opportunities in other markets and in providing U.S. consumers with the best new technology. The Trump administration is doing all it can to undercut U.S. EV development. Beyond its rhetoric echoing the 1890s, Trump froze money for charging infrastructure, and his massive tax and policy bill ends the federal tax incentive of up to $7,500 to buy an EV. Without that, demand, already short of projections, will drop further. If sales are too anemic, car companies will have no choice but to further de-emphasize EV research and development. As Trump vilifies EVs, bolsters oil companies and seeks an isolationist trade policy to force domestic auto production, the Chinese are building the worlds most advanced EVs and carving out global market share. The speed at which their EVs are being developed is, to Lawler and other U.S. executives, stunning and scary. Self-inflicted wounds Tesla CEO Elon Musk told industry analysts last year that Chinese EVs are so good, that without trade barriers, they will pretty much demolish most other car companies in the world. Chinese automaker BYD sells its Seagull for around $10,000. We can be sure that American consumers will want the best tech at the best price. Thats one key lesson from the 70s and 80s. At that moment, American carmakers derided Japanese econoboxes, confident U.S. consumers wanted big cars even as gas topped $1 a gallon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many wanted better fuel economy instead and discovered that the imports broke down less than American cars and lasted longer. My father, for example, who drove a couple hundred miles on many days, put a third of a million miles on a 1974 Toyota pickup, durability that was unheard of from an American car at the time. When the Chinese EVs arrive as Lawler and others say, thats a question of when, not if U.S. automakers will be far behind at the cost of billions of dollars and tens of thousands of jobs. This isnt a little pain for a greater outcome. Its a needless self-inflicted wound that will leave the U.S. auto industry crippled and the Michigan and national economy wounded. Trump, if his policies were actually meant to address working class needs, would incentivize the industry to speed its work in developing the cars that consumers will demand in only one or two automotive product cycles. The UAW, rather than putting its stake behind protectionism that is bound to fail, should embrace development of products that will protect its members jobs in the long run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Randy Essex is a retired journalist who covered and edited business and political news, including at the Free Press, for four decades. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters, and we may publish it online and in print. Like what you're reading? Please consider supporting local journalism and getting unlimited digital access with a Detroit Free Press subscription. We depend on readers like you. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Trump hobbling EV market leaves Detroit vulnerable to China | Opinion The Chinese Embassy is denouncing a bill introduced by Maryland Sen. Angela Alsobrooks that would prevent foreign adversaries from buying up the nations farmland and timberland in order to spy on the U.S. and interrupt its food supply chain. The U.S. overstretches the concept of national security and deprives the right of institutions and citizens of particular countries to purchase farmland, the spokesperson for the Chinese embassy said in an email to The Baltimore Sun, calling the bill discriminatory and urging the U.S. to rethink its international strategy. Alsobrooks, a Democrat, co-introduced the bipartisan bill last week alongside two Republican Senators and one Democrat. She called the bill common sense legislation that will make us safer and stronger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Data shows the adversarial foreign investors identified in the bill China, North Korea, Russia and Iran own less than 1% of U.S. farm, timber and ranching lands, per the Department of Agriculture. Several agricultural policy experts The Baltimore Sun interviewed said the scope of the threat is hard to determine because of difficulties collecting data on foreign investments. One food and national security expert says fears of food supply issues are overblown. The perception of the threat doesnt match the reality of the threat, said Caitlin Welsh, the director of the Global Food and Water Security Program of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, on food-supply concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Welsh did say that there is an argument that some agricultural land purchases by foreign investors could be a potential national security concern, such as those near military facilities. The bill Alsobrooks introduced would codify the agriculture secretarys role in reviewing farmland transactions made by investors from other countries to determine whether they pose threats to American security. Purchases from China, North Korea, Russia and Iran are subject to special review, according to an email statement from Alsobrooks. The House of Representatives unanimously passed the bill in June. The Senates version is not yet scheduled for a vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adding the agriculture secretary to certain conversations on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. was a part of a Trump administration July plan created to monitor investors in other countries purchasing farmland, arguing that certain investments could put national and food security at risk. The secretary was added to the committee ]on July 8 via a memorandum of understanding; this bill would make that appointment permanent. The administration has pushed for prioritizing American businesses and limiting outside influence in the United States. This is typically discriminatory and violates the principle of market economy and international trade rules, and will eventually hurt the U.S.s own interests, Chinas embassy spokesperson said. We urge the U.S. to immediately stop politicizing trade and investment issues. Alsobrooks did not respond by publicaton to a follow-up request for comment on the embassys remarks. Military assets and espionage threats Maryland is home to several sensitive sites, Alsobrooks said in her earlier statement to The Sun, namely Camp David, federal agencies and Fort Meade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is absolutely critical these sites are safe from foreign adversaries, she said. Foreign investors are required to self-report agricultural land transactions to the U.S. Department of Agriculture under a 1978 law called the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act. Danny Munch, an economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation, described Alsobrooks bill as an effort to streamline oversight of foreign purchases of agricultural land between the Department of Agriculture, which collects data under the 1978 law, and the committee that reviews foreign investments. There is concern within some of the agricultural community that some of the bad actors that could exist would not be reported, Munch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, he said, some farmers like being able to sell their land when and to who they want. A plan for a Chinese firm to purchase land for a corn milling plant 12 miles away from an U.S. Air Force base in 2023 led to nationwide attention to investors from foreign adversarial nations purchasing land near military sites. From 2016 to 2021, foreign purchases of U.S. agricultural land has increased by 40%, according to the Department of Agriculture. Investors from Canada, The Netherlands, Italy and The United Kingdom owned the most U.S. agricultural land of any foreign country. Investors outside of the United States owned about 3.5% of agricultural land in December 2023, according to the Department of Agriculture. Investors from adversarial nations owned less than 1% of this foreign-held land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foreign adversary nations own a small percentage of agricultural land, with investors from North Korea owning no acres and from Russia owning 11 acres as of December 2023. Investors from China owned 277,336 acres of agricultural land, according to a Department of Agriculture report. Vincent Smith, professor emeritus at Montana State University and the director of the Agricultural Policy Program at the American Enterprise Institute, noted that the annual rate of return on investments in agricultural land runs at roughly 6%. It has to do with worries about spying, intellectual property theft, and so on, Smith said. Whether Chinese institutions should be able to access properties adjacent to military bases and American security assets is a point of legitimate debate, he said. Smith said the potential risks from foreign countries acquiring this agricultural land include using the land for espionage as well as stealing intellectual property by monitoring farming techniques. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iran-based investors owned 3,030 acres of U.S. agricultural land as of December 2023, according to the Department of Agriculture. Majid Sadeghpour is the political director of the Organization of Iranian American Communities, a nonprofit that advocates for human rights and democracy in Iran and strongly opposes Irans current government. Sadeghpours group, which opposes an appeasement policy toward Iran, according to their website, was in favor of the bill, and its restriction on Iranian companies. We welcome U.S. government vigilance and measures which ensure individuals/ organizations associated with the regime and its [Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps] do not financially benefit from investments in the United States, he said in an email to The Sun. Food supply concerns Alsobrooks also alleges that these countries pose a threat to the U.S. food supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her statement to The Sun, Alsobrooks said that an insecure food supply chain represents a significant threat to the nation, adding that the bill would support Marylands agricultural communities while protecting the countrys food security. The Maryland Grain Producers Association backed the bill for just this reason, its executive director said. Lindsay Thompson, the associations executive director, said the group is concerned that if unchecked, purchases of farmland by corporations headquartered in these countries could undermine the U.S. food supply by taking land from U.S. farmers, as well as stealing crop production techniques. She added that it could lead to financial hardships, cutting the food supply short. The secretary of USDA uniquely understands the entire agricultural system and the vulnerabilities that our farmers and agricultural companies could be subject to in these types of transactions, Thompson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Welsh, however, said there is no significant evidence that the small percentage of foreign-held agricultural land could impact the nations food supply. She said, however, she believes foreign purchases of agricultural land should be monitored on the federal level. I think that pulls on a lot of emotions, but I dont think that there is a strong basis of evidence for the claim that Chinas ownership of U.S. farmland threatens U.S. food security, Welsh said. Have a news tip? Contact Gabriella Fine at gfine@baltsun.com or Katharine Wilson at kwilson@baltsun.com. The Chinese government has warned against using cyber security issues to defame the country, following the hacker attacks on Microsoft software. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said in Beijing on Wednesday that he was not aware of the exact circumstances of the attacks. China has always acted in accordance with the law against hacker activities, he said. At the same time, he said, Beijing is opposed to using cybersecurity issues to slander and defame China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Microsoft has identified three Chinese hacker groups after the cyberattacks on numerous companies and government agencies, two of which are known for acting on behalf of the state. The attacks were carried out via a previously unknown vulnerability in Microsoft software, which intelligence agencies often seek out specifically in order to exploit it covertly. This time, locally operated servers for the Microsoft file-sharing programme SharePoint were affected. Experts say this allows attackers to steal data and passwords or gain permanent access to the systems. Microsoft has since released updates to fix the security vulnerability. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A man who is a citizen of China but also resides in New York was charged after an elderly couple in Java were scammed out of $20,000 in cash in May, according to the Wyoming County Sheriffs Office. Officials said the couple were instructed to call Microsoft Security, withdraw money from the bank, put it in an envelope and wait for a delivery person to arrive. A man in a delivery vest arrived to take the money on May 27. A New York State license plate registered to 43-year-old Rihui Yan was developed. On May 28, a search warrant for Yans vehicle was obtained and $2,400, cell phones and his vehicle were allegedly seized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yan was charged in Malone, N.Y. for a similar scam incident involving over $40,000 in Franklin County. A search warrant at his Albany residence also turned up $3,400 in cash, documents and electronic devices, officials said. He was arraigned on July 16 and released on his own recognizance. He was then returned to the Buffalo Detention Facility pending a later court date. 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. Chinese hackers are suspected of hacking the US nuclear weapons agency after breaching a flaw in Microsofts software. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), which maintains the US nuclear arsenal, has been targeted via a vulnerability in Microsofts document system SharePoint, according to reports. Microsoft has warned that hackers linked to Beijing are exploiting the flaw, while Britains National Cyber Security Centre has said organisations in the UK have also been hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flaw allows hackers to remotely run software code on victims servers, potentially allowing them to install malicious software and steal data. According to Bloomberg, which reported the breach, no sensitive information is believed to have been stolen in the hack on the NNSA. A spokesman for the US energy department said it was minimally impacted by the hack last Friday. On Friday, July 18, the exploitation of a Microsoft SharePoint zero-day vulnerability began affecting the Department of Energy, it said. The department was minimally impacted due to its widespread use of the Microsoft M365 cloud and very capable cybersecurity systems. A very small number of systems were impacted. All impacted systems are being restored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear whether Chinese hackers are responsible for the nuclear agency attack. However, Microsoft has alleged that China-linked groups dubbed Linen Typhoon, Violet Typhoon and Storm-2603 have been exploiting the software vulnerability. It seems logical that it would be the Chinese, said Alan Woodward, a computer security expert at the University of Surrey. Its more likely to be people who want to conduct cyberespionage. Microsoft has released security updates to fix the flaw and advised customers to install them. The National Cyber Security Centre said this week that a limited number of organisations in the UK had been affected by the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flaw disproportionately targets government agencies since they are more likely to run Microsoft software on their own servers. Many companies run the software on Microsofts cloud, which has not been affected by the attacks. The Cabinet Office was contacted for comment on whether UK government agencies had been affected. 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. Isabella Kahn On August 28, 2024, the Peoples Republic of China announced the end of their intercountry adoption policy, and a small corner of the world stood still. Chinese transnational adoptees worldwide were shocked, relieved, saddened, and frustrated all at once. Some had hoped to one day adopt children of their own from the country. Others were alarmed by the possible uncertainty around their adoption paperwork. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas intercountry adoption program, formalized by the 1992 Adoption Law, stemmed from earlier state concerns about overpopulation. This history is perhaps best known via the 1979 One-Child Policy, which limited many families to only have one kid. In the 32 years that the law was in effect, approximately 160,000 Chinese children were adopted by families across the world. I was one of them. Now, were growing up: graduating from college, moving across the world, and building families of our own. My project, 32 Years Later: The Legacy of Chinese Intercountry Adoption, attempts to tell as much of our story as I can by documenting the individuals impacted by this era and how theyve reflected on their place within it. Over the past year, I have interviewed and photographed Chinese transnational adoptees in the United States and United Kingdom. I listened to stories of struggle and resilience, of grief and reconnection, of wondering about a past they lost and learning who theyre becoming. Their generosity and vulnerability are a strength to which I keep returning. Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take Like every identity, several unique events and shared characteristics define the Chinese transnational adoptee experience. Many transnational adoptees are raised by white families in predominantly white communities, isolated from their culture. These families often lacked cultural awareness, tools, or willingness to meet the needs of their adopted children. However, they had the finances, education, and lifestyle required to adopt internationally. Chinese adoptees often have parents older than those of their peers, creating generational, cultural, and emotional gaps which some of us are still trying to bridge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Coming out of the fog" is a term used within the adoptee community to describe the realization that adoption as an institution exists within broader systems of colonialism and power, and profit, not love and saviorhood. Through this experience, adoptees re-find and understand one another, and that shared connection helps us define what it means to be part of this cohort on our own terms. In many ways, being a Chinese transnational adoptee feels like belonging to a generational cohort. We collectively navigated growing up in America post-9/11, the 2008 recession, the COVID-19 pandemic, and its subsequent rise in Sinophobic rhetoric and hate crimes. Chinese transnational adoptees are forever linked by this era of political policy. Still, as a Chinese transnational adoptee, there is no single correct way to be, or feel. Our experiences are complex, fluid, and often shaped by the openness or rigidity of our adoptive families. The choice to respond to it and how is important and personal, but its not permanent. A holistic representation of Chinese adoptees is incomplete without those who feel disconnected from adoption discourse entirely, those who critique it, and those who find peace in not engaging at all. At the same time, I celebrate how we have grown beyond it. Our identity is multifaceted and intersectional, and adoption encompasses a pivotal but small fraction of it. We are creatives, researchers, engineers, and teachers. We are shaped by so many things: race, gender, sexuality, class, language, and geography. We carry joy, ambition, and contradictions; we form communities, challenge expectations, and create lives that are entirely our own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the policys end in September, conversations around adoption, identity, and legality have only grown more urgent. Immigration and citizenship concerns in the United States are reaching new heights under the second Trump administration. Most Chinese adoptees in America were automatically naturalized by the Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2000, but several thousand intercountry adoptees are still at risk of potential deportation to countries where they have no known family, cannot speak the language, and have no way to support themselves financially. Even many with citizenship feel unsure and have applied for an additional Certification of Citizenship to verify their status if needed. Fitting into the broader Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) diaspora has never been straightforward for many Chinese adoptees. Often raised in predominantly white environments, many of us grew up estranged from our cultural roots, but still experience the racism that comes with being Asian, even in interactions with our own families. We arent always visible within AAPI discourse, but we share in its struggles, its aspirations, and its resilience. Our stories are part of the Asian American narrative, even if were still figuring out what they will be. Isabella Kahn Leah Reso, 24, born in Duchang county, Jiangxi Growing up, I always had this fear my parents would die early on. My dads had countless surgeries since he blew his heart valve when I was in third grade, and my mom died of stage 4 lung cancer three days before my college graduation. That was just a different kind of bullet hitting my chest. I can never call her name in the house I grew up in and hear a response back, but I can remember her and continue to love her throughout the rest of my life. Isabella Kahn Caroline Walkup, 21, born in Changsha, Hunan I grew up in a white family in South Carolina, so I had very little exposure to Asian people or the Chinese culture until going to university in NYC for dance. Now, Im designing dance costumes for my upcoming choreographic work that are inspired by the continuing impacts of Chinas One-Child Policy, interracial adoption, and the experience of existing as a visible minority. Self-identification is complex, and Im trying to navigate these unfamiliar feelings through fabrics, color palettes, and design. Isabella Kahn Grace Blackmar, 22, born in Yangjiang Joining the Asian American Arts Alliance (A4) as the inaugural Anjeli Jana Memorial Intern has been incredibly healing and empowering as I learn about both my culture and others. As a Chinese American adoptee, my relationship with my identity and background was largely one of neglect and unconsciousness, and the A4 and AANHPI communities in New York City have helped me navigate this unique relationship, understanding and advocating for the diversity and culture which serves as the basis of meaningful art. Isabella Kahn Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brenna Mathers, 23, born in Fengcheng, Jiangxi In 2019, my parents chose to apply for a certificate of citizenship for me, partially due to Trumps first term. I remember having to go to the state capitol building and swear in to get it, even though Id been a naturalized citizen with a passport for years. I was a minor at the time, so it was all done in private, but I remember seeing a ton of adoptees all around my same age there on the same day. I did a 23andMe DNA test in high school and was incredibly lucky to find a biological sister living in the US! Meeting her and her family in person was so amazing and formative for me as an adoptee. Her nonbiological sister had also been adopted from China and discovered a biological sister of her own through 23andMe years after. All four of us now live on the East coast and getting to meet together was one of the most surreal moments of my life. Isabella Kahn Sarah Wolfe, 19, born in Guiping, Guangxi Although adoption is a massive part of my lifes story that continues to shape me, it is far from a complete picture of myself. I have learned so much about myself from my pursuits of draftsmanship, metalsmithing, badminton, lion dance, choir, woodworking, and painting, and I now feel comfortable exploring and expressing my cultural identity. Isabella Kahn Grace Santoli, 21, born in Dongguan, Guangdong Lion dance is life, is a phrase that I repeat all too often to the people in my life. I began Chinese lion dancing in the 7th grade as a part of the Portland Lees Association Dragon & Lion Dance Team in my hometown, Portland, OR. Lion dance connects me to my culture through the discipline it requires, the teamwork, the storytelling, the community, and the history. Isabella Kahn Kai Stokes,19, born in Shanghai Although adoption was supposed to be a dramatic and defining moment in my life, it now feels like a distant memory one that quietly reminds me of where I came from and how far Ive come. Isabella Kahn Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement E. Feng, 22, born in Fengcheng, Jiangxi I dont think I really thought critically about [adoption] in the beginning because I was really focused on restoring a lost Chinese cultural identity and becoming Chinese, or even Asian American, in a way people wouldnt be able to read me as an adoptee. In doing a lot of my research [on Korean adoption], I feel like I gained a huge amount of empathy for my birth mother. I realized gradually that the bitterness I felt was kind of because I had this huge absence of a maternal figure. Isabella Kahn Zhao Gu Gammage, 21, born in Wuwei, Gansu When I came back to the city and orphanage in China I was from, I explained to people that I was adopted from here in 2004. The orphanage staff asked me why did I want to learn Chinese? Like, did my parents force me to learn? I was so nervous, but I told them in this kind of broken, shaky Chinese, I started learning it again because I wanted to come back here and be able to talk to you. Isabella Kahn Annie Morgan, 20, born in Guangdong, Guangzhou Joining an Asian-interest sorority like Kappa Phi Lambda was never about choosing one culture over another. It was about embracing all the pieces of my identity and finding a space that uplifted and celebrated them. Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Want to read more Teen Vogue history coverage? Chinese state-backed hackers broke into a US agency which designs nuclear weapons, Microsoft said. The tech giant said hacking groups exploited security flaws to access Microsoft document-sharing software used by the National Nuclear Security Administration; other government agencies were also hacked. China denied involvement and called the accusations smearing. Cyberattacks, both state-sponsored and private, are a growing problem: British institutions are to be banned from paying ransom money to hackers after a spate of Russia-aligned attacks, Politico reported. One 158-year-old British transportation firm had to shut down altogether after hackers guessed one employees weak password, locked down its systems, and demanded a ransom the firm was unable to pay. [Source] A university in northeastern China has sparked debate in the country by expelling a student for what it calls inappropriate behavior with a Ukrainian e-sports player that allegedly damaged national dignity. What the school is saying: Dalian Polytechnic University, located in Liaoning province, issued the expulsion notice on July 8, telling the student, Your inappropriate behavior on December 16, 2024, has caused a severe negative impact. The university applied disciplinary regulations stating that students engaging in improper relationships with foreigners that undermine national dignity and the universitys reputation may face a demerit or more serious disciplinary action, depending on the circumstances. The notice was posted publicly on the universitys website, revealing the students full name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The student and the foreigner: The controversy centers on former Ukrainian Counter-Strike professional gamer Danylo Teslenko, nicknamed Zeus, who shared videos of himself with the student on his Telegram channel during a December tournament visit to Shanghai. In his posts, Teslenko reportedly referred to the student as an easy girl. Video screenshots circulating online also show the pair in a hotel room with the student appearing aware of being filmed though no explicit content was displayed. The Ukrainian national later apologized and clarified he was neither married nor in a relationship. Reactions: Chinese social media users are divided about the students expulsion. On Weibo, one blogger with 14 million followers noted that fawning over foreigners would never be respectable. On the other hand, Peking University law professor Zhao Hong wrote that the online spectators who frantically humiliated an ordinary woman under the banner of so-called justice were the real threat to national dignity. The hashtag disciplined student should not be publicly shamed also garnered over 57 million views on Weibo, with many condemning the sharing of the students identity and private content as excessive punishment. Trending on NextShark: The world trusts Xi Jinping more than Donald Trump, survey shows The big picture: Beyond the universitys action, the incident unveils tensions over Chinas complex relationship with foreigners, particularly given Ukraines precarious position amid Beijings close ties with Russia. Critics also highlighted gender disparities in public reactions, noting that Chinese men who pursue foreign partners typically face no similar scrutiny. Meanwhile, legal scholars questioned whether the university violated higher education laws and Chinas Civil Code provisions protecting personal data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The student has 60 days to appeal the expulsion decision. Trending on NextShark: Chinese university expels student over 'inappropriate behavior' with Ukrainian This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices. Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community. Subscribe here now! Trending on NextShark: North Korean defectors debut in new K-pop boy group Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! Shares of the hydrogen fuel cell product solutions provider have surged 72.5% over the past month, fueled by favorable changes to Trumps sweeping tax and spending bill for the hydrogen industry, along with company-specific news like the recent extension of a strategic hydrogen supply deal with a major U.S.-based industrial gas firm. However, PLUG stock is still down 10% year-to-date. With a market cap of $2.02 billion, Plug Power (PLUG) is a notable player in the green hydrogen industry, specializing in hydrogen fuel cell technologies. The company is building a comprehensive green hydrogen ecosystem, spanning production, storage, delivery, and energy generation, to support its customers business objectives and contribute to economy-wide decarbonization. Its offerings include the GenDrive fuel cell system for material handling vehicles such as forklifts, GenSure stationary fuel cells for grid support, and ProGen fuel cell engines designed for a range of applications. It also offers GenFuel, a comprehensive solution for hydrogen production, storage, and dispensing. In this article, well dig into why analysts have become more bullish on the hydrogen industry, examine Plugs financial position in greater depth, and assess whether the current optimism warrants buying PLUG stock today. At the center of this renewed enthusiasm is Plug Power (PLUG), a company that has long been viewed as a potential leader in the hydrogen economy. Still, significant questions linger about Plugs fundamentals. The company continues to grapple with deeply negative gross margins, substantial cash burn, and uncertainty around its long-term liquidity position. With PLUG shares rallying sharply in recent weeks, the question has come back into focus: Is Plug Power finally ready to deliver on its promise or is this just another false dawn? Hydrogen stocks have come roaring back into the spotlight, driven by a renewed wave of optimism following the recent passage of U.S. President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill. The sweeping legislation has injected fresh enthusiasm into the hydrogen industry by extending crucial tax incentives, removing controversial draft restrictions, and providing clarity for long-term investments in clean energy projects. That prompted a fresh round of bullish analyst sentiment that some investors believe could mark a turning point. Story Continues www.barchart.com Analysts Sweeten on Hydrogen as Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Brings Long-Awaited Policy Clarity On July 7, Plug Power CEO Andy Marsh told Wall Street analysts during a conference call that the hydrogen fuel cell company stands to benefit significantly from U.S. President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act. The bill extends two key tax credits that Plug Power and its customers rely on, which were set to expire under the earlier version of the legislation. Marsh stated that the bills passage, signed into law on July 4, represents one of the most meaningful policy wins for Plug and really for the entire hydrogen fuel cell sector in the last several years. One of the tax incentives provides a 30% credit on all fuel cell purchases. Notably, the revised law eliminates the zero-emissions requirement, foreign content restrictions, and prevailing wage or apprenticeship conditions, significantly broadening access to the credit. This clarity allows us to make long-term decisions with confidence. It allows our partners and customers to do the same, Marsh said. Plug also applauded the extension of the hydrogen production tax credit. This tax credit provides producers up to $3 per kilogram to help make this fuel source competitive with traditional fuels. With that, Plug gained greater flexibility to align its plant construction timeline with actual market demand. We can build smart, we can build strategically, Marsh said. With the passage of the OBBB Act, the 30% fuel cell tax credit has been extended through 2032, and the green hydrogen tax credit will now apply to projects initiated before 2028, rather than 2026, giving Plug more time to capitalize on these incentives as it expands its network of green hydrogen plants nationwide. We are in a much better place today than we were a year ago, Marsh told analysts. Meanwhile, JPMorgan noted that the policy clarity provided by the OBBBA should eliminate a longstanding overhang for the broader hydrogen complex, which had been hindered for years by shifting regulatory guidelines. The firm also pointed out that Plug anticipates receiving credits for its current production in Georgia and potentially in Louisiana, while also benefiting from more flexibility around when it deploys capital instead of being pressured by earlier eligibility deadlines. In addition, the firm told investors in a research note that the latest policy changes could allow certain green hydrogen projects in the U.S. to reach a final investment decision that would have otherwise been canceled without the credit given significantly higher production costs than blue/grey hydrogen. Another key point is that JPMorgan noted the outlook for Plugs previously delayed Department of Energy loan has improved, after the company had blamed the delay on tax credit uncertainty during JPMorgans Energy Conference in late June. To recap, in early January, Plug secured a nearly $1.7 billion loan guarantee from the DOE to support six zero- and low-carbon hydrogen production projects, but the Trump administration has since placed the loan under review. In my previous articles on PLUG, I highlighted the importance of the loan, as it could allow the company to move forward with its plan to build a nationwide network of green hydrogen plants, positioning it to fully capitalize on the extended hydrogen production tax credit. Overall, JPMorgan sees the bill as a positive development for Plug but notes that the extent of unlocked demand and the companys ability to improve margins and reduce cash burn remain uncertain. The firm maintained its Neutral rating on PLUG stock after the managements conference call with analysts. Other firms seem more optimistic about PLUGs outlook, with Roth Capital and H.C. Wainwright both reaffirming their Buy ratings. Ball Now on Plugs Side As JPMorgan analysts pointed out, while the OBBBA offers some relief to Plug and the overall hydrogen industry, the company still faces challenges in its core operations, including deeply negative margins and massive cash burn. With that, lets take a closer look at the companys latest quarterly results and dive deeper into key points. In the first quarter of 2025, Plugs sales grew 11.1% year-over-year to $133.7 million, fueled by higher electrolyzer shipments, steady demand in material handling, and continued deployments across its cryogenic platform. However, the company continues to post deeply negative gross margins, largely due to the structure of its fuel contracts. In Q1, PLUG posted a gross margin loss of -55%. Still, this marked an improvement from -132% in the same quarter a year ago. We also recently received some positive news on the margins front. On July 9, Plug announced a new multi-year enhanced supply agreement with a major U.S.-based industrial gas company and longtime hydrogen partner. The agreement extends the existing strategic partnership between the companies through 2030, ensuring a stable hydrogen supply for Plugs expanding applications business while substantially lowering the cost structure and improving cash flows. During the Q1 earnings call, management said they aim to achieve break-even gross margins by year-end, so it will be interesting to see in the Q2 update whether that timeline has been moved up. Another key point that caught my attention is expenses. While everything looked great with research and development costs in Q1, thanks to the companys 2025 Restructuring Plan, the same cannot be said for SG&A expenses. They rose slightly year-over-year to $80.8 million, an uncomfortably high figure for a company grappling with negative gross margins and significant losses. As a result, Plugs net loss stood at $196.9 million, or $0.21 per share. Finally, Plug continues to burn a massive amount of cash, and its liquidity outlook beyond 2025 remains uncertain. The company ended Q1 with just $295.8 million in unrestricted cash but later secured a costly debt facility of up to $525 million from its existing lender, Yorkville Advisors. What I really dont like is the first-quarter cash burn of $152.1 million, especially given that management had already launched a $200 million cost-saving program. Looking ahead, management forecasts Q2 revenue to range between $140 million and $180 million. At the midpoint, Plugs first-half sales would come in just under $300 million, well below the over-$400 million estimate projected at the end of 2024. Analysts currently forecast Plugs FY25 revenue at $733.25 million, reflecting a modest 16.61% year-over-year increase, while its net loss is expected to narrow by 78.35% year-over-year to $0.58 per share. What Do Analysts Expect for PLUG Stock? Despite the recent wave of optimism surrounding the hydrogen industry, analysts havent changed their view on Plug stock, which continues to carry a consensus Hold rating unchanged from one, two, and three months ago. Of the 23 analysts covering the stock, five rate it a Strong Buy, 13 recommend holding, and the other five have issued a Strong Sell rating. Still, PLUGs average price target of $4.08 implies massive upside potential of 116% from current levels. www.barchart.com The Bottom Line on PLUG Stock Putting it all together, I currently view PLUG stock as a Hold. The stock moved exactly as I expected in my previous article, reaching the $1.80$2.00 range, where I believe the main price action will occur. The stock now faces a strong multi-year resistance level at $2.00, which I dont expect it to break through unless the company delivers some fundamental improvements. For this reason, Ill be closely watching the companys Q2 report, scheduled for early August, with a particular focus on improvements in margins and cash burn. On the date of publication, Oleksandr Pylypenko did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (WMBB) Tuesday was Jennifer Hodges first and last meeting as Lynn Havens interim city manager. City commission voted to replace her with city engineer Chris Lightfoot, at least for now. Only three commissioners attended the meeting: Jamie Warrick, Pat Perno and Sam Peebles. Mayor Jesse Nelson was out of the country. However, he left a statement regarding Sundays controversial private meeting held at his church. Peebles read the statement that said: This meeting was for the community, black and white, to assemble peacefully, First Amendment. We prayed for Lynn Haven and Mrs. Gainers family. We answered questions about statements made during public commentary at Fridays meeting. The negative social media comments were the reason the media was not permitted to enter the meeting; many people, especially the senior population, did not feel safe with the medias presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynn Haven City Manager Vickie Gainer terminated after contentious meeting This all stems from Phoenix Construction owner James Finchs lawsuit against Gainer and the city. He claims Gainer improperly handled bidding for a road project, in such a way that Phoenix could not win. Commissioners launched their own investigation and ended by firing Gainer. During Tuesdays meeting, the commission considered three people for the interim city manager. Hodges, Lightfoot and City Infrastructure Director Bobby Baker. They each wrote their top choices on a piece of paper. When the city attorney tallied the votes, Lightfoot won. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I mean, Ive been working in local government for about 16 years now and various different positions, no matter what, I think all of the staff, we just want whats best for the City of Lynn Haven, Lightfoot said. So, they need somebody to take that role and continue to move forward. And we will continue to move the city forward, Lightfoot added. Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson hosts meeting regarding Vickie Gainer termination But this is where it gets complicated. On Wednesday, Lightfoot needs to become a signer on the citys bank accounts. That can only happen with the mayors approval and Mayor Nelson is out of the country. Commissioner Peebles, who is mayor Pro Tem, made a motion to authorize him to approve the change. The commission agreed. The board also set a maximum property tax millage rate cap at 4.5 mills. Thats up from the current 4.05. Commissioners said they dont anticipate raising the taxes that high; its just the ceiling. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A familiar name in Sioux Falls politics has entered the citys 2026 mayoral race. How big events are boosting tourism in Sioux Falls Christine Erickson, who previously represented Minnehaha County in the state legislature and also served eight years on the Sioux Falls City Council, announced her candidacy for Sioux Falls mayor at a downtown event Wednesday. Im running because like many of you, Ive experienced the incredible strength, growth and community spirit that is Sioux Falls, Erickson said at her afternoon announcement. Ive seen us face challenges head on, come out stronger together, but I believe were just getting started. Current Mayor Paul TenHaken is term-limited. Erickson joins Jamie Smith and David Zokaites in the race; the election is scheduled for June 2, 2026. The 47-year-old Erickson, who is president of both the South Dakota Automobile Dealers Association and the South Dakota Trucking Association, made a pledge to voters Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres my commitment to you, Sioux Falls, Erickson said at the event. I will lead with common sense. I will ask tough questions and focus on solutions that work. I will make sure our government serves you and not itself. I will partner with anyone who wants to move our city forward, regardless of party or perspective. Following her announcement, KELOLAND News asked Erickson what she sees as the biggest issue or issues presently facing Sioux Falls. So our campaign really is focused on making sure our communitys safe, Erickson said in response. We hear it over and over. I believe that our current administration is doing a fantastic job at combating crime and giving them the resources. We want to expand on that and grow on that. Erickson makes clear that she sees Sioux Falls as already a safe community. She also addressed the new mens prison which could be coming to the Sioux Falls area, zeroing in on inmates lives after theyre released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What are we doing to make sure that they dont go back, Erickson said. Thats going to be the big question moving forward. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jul. 22BEMIDJI Two Bemidji churches have planned special events during the 2025 All School Reunion. St. Philip's Catholic School will hold an Outstanding Alumni and Supporter Recognition brunch at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, in the St. Philip's Social Hall. Free-will offerings will be accepted. All St. Philip's School alumni, supporters, current and past church members, and those interested are invited to this inaugural recognition brunch. At the brunch, five Outstanding Alumni and Supporters of St. Philip's will be honored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tours of St. Philip's School will be offered at the conclusion of the brunch. First Lutheran Church will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 25, to welcome All School Reunion visitors and locals as part of the church's 125th anniversary celebration. Cincinnati City Council in August will consider stricter enforcement of the city's curfew for youth as a way to respond to concerns about crime in the city. As part of that enforcement, the city may create "curfew centers" where the city could take minors who are out too late. They would stay there until their parents could come and get them. Mayor Aftab Pureval on July 23 called city council members back from their summer recess for a two-and-a-half-hour special meeting to talk about the curfew and other measures to address crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The curfew is not about arresting children, council members stressed throughout the lengthy meeting. "What we want to tell the public, were not trying to arrest as many kids as we can," said Councilwoman Victoria Parks. "We want to keep them safe. We dont want them out at 3 oclock when someone might just shoot at them. What we know about the curfew proposal Details on exactly how the city would change the curfew ordinance, where these curfew centers would be and who would operate them were not released at the special meeting. City Manager Sheryl Long said they're still working on a formal proposal the administration will present to council in August. Cincinnati Public School students return to school on Aug. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city already has a curfew for people under 16 after 10 p.m. and ages 16 to 18 until midnight, meaning that youth cannot be unaccompanied in public after those hours. Long said they're looking at ways to make the curfew easier to enforce. The proposed curfew centers wouldn't be at recreation centers, Long said, since she doesn't want children to have a negative association with them. Long said the goal is to have a safe haven for youth that police encounter after the current curfew. She said she has some organizations in mind for the city to partner with to staff the curfew centers but didn't want to reveal them at the meeting. "Our goal is to get these kids in safe places," Long said. "That is what the overall goal is of the curfew." Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge Will the curfew be enforced fairly? City council peppered Long and Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge with questions on the curfew and how to address crime. When asked whether children in violation of the curfew would be charged with a crime, Long said she didn't have the answer to that yet and is working with the legal department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney said when the curfew has been enforced in the past, residents have complained that it hasn't been enforced evenly in all neighborhoods. "If we do it, well have to do it consistently and fairly across all neighborhoods," she said. Enquirer review found few curfew charges Enforcing the current curfew is difficult, city officials have said. An Enquirer review of 25 years of curfew violations in Hamilton County, including Cincinnati, has found that there has been a steady decline in the number of youth referred to the juvenile court for curfew violations since 2000. The number of juveniles referred to juvenile court peaked in 2000 with 619 violations and has steadily declined ever since. In 2024, there were 79 juveniles cited for curfew violations across the county. Will the curfew work? The police chief said they're compiling neighborhood data on crime committed by the youth. She didn't have any specific numbers to present on July 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are some specific neighborhoods in our city where the youth disorder is occurring after current curfew hours," Theetge said during the meeting. She said they're also looking to other cities, including Tulsa and Indianapolis, on how they enforce their curfews. At the end of the meeting, city council unanimously passed an ordinance directing the administration to look at enforcement of the curfew and increasing police visibility. "To put it simply, this motion is trying to save kids, period," Pureval said. "And the curfew is an important tool in trying to do that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: City Council will discuss curfew enforcement, other restrictions for youth to deter crime This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati city leaders weigh 'curfew centers' for youth out late This story was updated with comments from a July 22 press conference following Soliman's court hearing. Cincinnati imam Ayman Soliman will remain jailed in Butler County until at least July 29, an immigration judge ruled. Soliman and his attorneys had hoped Cleveland Immigration Judge Jennifer Riedthaler-Williams would grant bond at a hearing on Tuesday, July 22, and release him. She instead set a new hearing to accept additional filings through the end of this week, then return to his request for bond and related matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soliman attended the hearing virtually from the Butler County jail. Dressed in a yellow-and-white jail uniform and brown-framed glasses, the 51-year-old imam told the judge he did not require an Arabic interpreter for his hearing. "I understand English and can be OK without an interpreter," he said. "My English proficiency is high." Cincinnati Children's chaplain Iman Ayman Soliman was detained by Immigration and Custom Enforcement after officials revoked his asylum status, his supporters say. The judge brought one into the hearing anyway in the event one was needed. Government, lawyer argue over terrorist ties Soliman's attorney, Robert Ratliff, called his client "a man of faith" and "strong moral character" who has lived and worked in the Cincinnati area for a long time. He disputed the government's position that Soliman has ties to terrorism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheryl Gutridge, attorney for the Department of Homeland Security, argued otherwise, noting that the government filed evidence of Soliman's involvement in a charity linked to the Muslim Brotherhood. That group is considered a terrorist organization in Soliman's home country of Egypt, but not in the United States. Gutridge also argued that the Cleveland immigration court does not have jurisdiction over Soliman because of the terrorism allegation. After the hearing, Ratliff said the government's primary argument at this date is that Soliman should be deported because he no longer has asylum protection. He won that status in 2018, four years after arriving in the United States, and lost it last month following a years-long legal effort to clear his records of an "FBI flag." The government continues to assert a tie to terrorism, without specific evidence, as the underlying reason Soliman lost asylum status, his attorneys said at the press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When the government wants to put forth a narrative, they will," said Kathryn Brady, an attorney with the Muslim Legal Fund of America. The government's case has been a "massive game of six degrees of separation," added Francel Daniel, another Muslim Legal Fund lawyer. "There's just no evidence." Who is Ayman Soliman? Soliman came to the United States in 2014 after facing persecution in Egypt for his work in support of freelance journalists, his supporters say. He's been held at the Butler County jail in Hamilton since Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested him July 9. His case has attracted attention across Greater Cincinnati and beyond, especially because of his work with sick children and their families during a four-year stint as a chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, a prayer vigil on his behalf turned violent, as participants encountered police as they made their way from The Banks in Downtown Cincinnati to the John A. Roebling Bridge into Covington. Before his hearing, Soliman reacted to the violence in a message his lawyers shared on Instagram. "I only wish for peaceful vigils. I do not want anyone to be arrested or harmed on my behalf," he said. What's next in the case? Soliman's case continues in federal court this week. On July 15, U.S. District Judge Michael Barrett granted a temporary restraining order to prevent officials from removing Soliman from the state of Ohio until his bond hearing with the immigration court. Barrett scheduled a status conference on that order for July 24. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigration judge Riedthaler-Williams could rule on Soliman's request for bond as soon as Friday. Soliman's next virtual hearing in the immigration court will be at 8 a.m. July 29. Enquirer reporter Victoria Moorwood contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Will Ohio imam remain in jail? Immigration judge says yes for now HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Citizens Action Coalition are condemning Indiana utilities after imposing what they describe as severe electric bill increases on residential customers over the last two decades. CAC used data from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to compare July 1 residential bills for 1,00 kWh from 2024 and 2025 across Indianas five investor-owned electric utilities, including CenterPoint and Duke Energy Indiana. According to a release, CenterPoint bills surged $44 a month after the IURC approved a base rate increase, and Duke Energy raised residential bills by nearly $26 per month to subsidize failing coal plants. Things keep getting worse for Hoosier consumers and our state leaders continue to allow it to happen, said CAC Executive Director Kerwin Olson. Based on this trend, the rhetoric regarding affordability emanating from the Statehouse appears to be nothing more than lip service. Hoosier consumers can no longer afford monopoly pricing. Something must change, soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CAC say that from 2024 to 2025 customers were spending over $28 more per month, the highest year-over-year increase since at least 2005, and nearly double the prior years record increase. A chart using data provided by the Citizens Action Coalition shows the price of a residential bill for 1000 kWh each month by year: Eyewitness News. Everywhere you 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 Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A coalition of Mahoning Valley citizens held a conference Wednesday morning at the Mahoning County Courthouse to address their concerns regarding the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County system. Read next: Youngstown mayor, police put local bars on notice Speakers voicing citizen concerns included Kathy Miller, Tom Zamary and Debbie Taylor. In essence, they are calling for clarity regarding how PLYMC distributes its funds and more citizen involvement, both in electing members of the library board and deciding how library funds should be spent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group, which referred to itself as Citizens for Responsible Spending, said they will ask the county prosecutor to make a recommendation to the Ohio Attorney General alleging mismanagement by the library board. One of the arguments the group made is that the library spends a significant portion of its budget on non-book items, such as a craft space, kitchen space, and other programs something the group referred to as mission creep. If there was a levy on the ballot for the people to vote on to spend $27 million on that main library using out-of-town vendors and adding such amenities as a culinary kitchen, an electric charging station and a 125-person meeting room, would that levy have passed? I doubt it, Taylor said. The group says these amenities and various services offered by the library are unnecessary expenses that taxpayers didnt have a say in things they see as a deviation from the traditional mission of the library. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, library officials argue that those amenities are necessary and in alignment with their mission. It is my opinion that this group has an extremely dated and limited view of what library services are and what our community needs today, said Aimee Fifarek, director and CEO of PLYMC. We do all the traditional things that libraries have always done: provide books, provide basic literacy programs and work with our schools to support school-age learning. That is the core of what we do. We do it really well. Fifarek said what was needed in 1950 is not what is needed in 2025. We have had massive change, in not only the post-war period but the 2000s with the technological revolution, and even post-COVID. Now that more things are on Zoom, people are having to do remote work. In Mahoning County, we have very serious issues related to food availability, unemployment, child care all of those things that make it difficult as our population has declined and its services have left. So as fewer services are available to the public, people are into and asking for support for the services that remain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to finances, the group expressed concern about where money is being spent and how much of it. I take a look at their annual reports, and what I look, when looking at those its particularly the IRS reports is that the library this year is spending more in 2024 spent more money for the first time since Ive been looking at it than it has coming in as revenues, Zamary said. What caused this big change in the last couple years that theyre spending now, spending more money than they get, needs to be looked at. Fifarek says this claim is not true, though with state budget cuts, it is a concern. Its significant, but not devastating, she said. So, yes, we are going to have to make some changes to our budget because of this new reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor said she conducted a ChatGPT search that showed Mahoning County ranked third in the state in per capita cost of libraries, at $82 per resident. As of the most recent levy that passed, taxpayers will contribute $84 for each $100,000 worth of property they own toward the library system. The language that voters saw when they passed that levy is below: A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, also known as Reuben McMillian Free Library Association, for the purpose of maintenance and operation that the county auditor estimates will collect $10,320 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.4 mills for each $1 of taxable value. The citizens group is calling for more power to the people, specifically when it comes to how library board members who make these major decisions are appointed. The library is composed of a board of trustees, 15, 17 members who elect each other every three years; they get replaced, Zamary said. The vote is by them. There is no control by the local government and no control by the state government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The librarys website states that the board is made up of 15 voting and two non-voting members, who include county auditor Ralph Meacham and Mayor Jamael Tito Brown. The board has a nominating committee. When vacancies become available, the board considers a variety of options, or a variety of components. Geography is one they strive to represent the entire county. Another option is the background of the people and what contributions and advice they can provide and oversight they can provide to the libraries specifically, Fifarek said. Fifarek said one of the most recent appointees to the board is a Poland resident with a construction background. Zamary claims the current power of citizens resides in their vote to pass the levy or not, but says people dont necessarily know all the details of it. The group argues that if taxpayers knew exactly what the money garnered in that levy would be spent on, they wouldnt approve it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One point of disgruntlement that surfaced numerous times is the consideration to relocate the Poland Library one of three options being considered after the library has been plagued by structural problems. If there was a levy that was specifically put on the ballot to abandon a beautiful building less than 25 years old to replace it with a brand new one, would that levy have passed? Absolutely not, Taylor said. Library officials counter that the consideration to relocate the Poland branch is driven by financial sense based on what would be a continually taxing cost to keep up with repairs. At any point when you have a decision that is going to be costly, it is the smart thing to do to look at, to do a cost-benefit analysis of your decision-making, Fifarek said. Weve been supporting this building for 25 years, its a lot of work, it is very high maintenance because of the decisions that were made during the construction but when we found out about the structural issues, specifically related to the slag and you can see the impact of that we not only needed to get an outside, expert opinion on how that could be treated, but we realized that any treatment would run into millions of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the citizens group argues that the existing building holds a history of the people of Poland. Twenty-some years ago, in todays dollars, they [citizens] donated $1.8 million in all kinds of things: furniture, paint, sculptures, bricks for an outdoor patio even the elevator, Miller said. A fellow I graduated with, his family donated the elevator in memory of their family, so a lot is the history that took place in Poland. Phyllis Ricchiuti is a concerned patron and says she regularly goes to the Poland branch to check out books. This has been really upsetting to our community, it really has, Ricchiuti said. We just feel that it hasnt been addressed properly. My big concern is that they say that the building in the one corner is having a problem with the concrete, but what do they do in Venice, Italy, with all the buildings? They dont abandon them, they dont tear them down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Library officials are considering three options with the following price tags for the Poland branch: Maintain the existing building: $8.5 million Renovate the existing building: $16.1 million Construct new building or renovate alternate facility: $11.5 to $15 million The library released details of issues plaguing the Poland Library, as well as an overview of all three options, on the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning Countys website. Fifarek says the goal of this exploration process is to compare the cost of fixing up the building in an apples-to-apples way with short- and long-term costs of relocating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that point, the board will have the information they need to make the appropriate decision that is right for all taxpayers in Mahoning County, and not just the people who care about that individual structure. Thats really the most frustrating part of this whole thing, in that all of this that has been going on for more than two years, the amount of conversation, questions and complaints related to actual library services has been minimal at best. Mahoning County Commissioner Gino DeFabio also attended Wednesdays meeting. Theres a lot of talk about the library and the amount of funds they have, and Ive said it before, you know, you put it on the ballot and the people voted for it The people voted for the levy, and Im not one to take the peoples vote away and say, Its not up to you. I believe its up to the residents, DeFabio 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 City Council approved tighter restrictions for accessory dwelling units in San Diego. The changes will limit the number of ADUs allowed on one property, ranging from four to six units maximum, depending on the property size. This comes after residents complained that they were seeing apartment-like complexes going up in their single family neighborhoods. But the changes are coming a little too late for some neighborhoods, including on Almayo Avenue in Clairemont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are 17 units under construction behind one single family home on Almayo Avenue. I hope this doesnt happen to anybody elses neighborhood, Anita Beckmann said. Shes raised her two kids on Almayo Avenue. This is our little paradise, she said. For the last year, shes had a front row seat to watch and listen to the construction of an ADU project just two doors down. Its just so peaceful and Im afraid that thats being destroyed, Beckmann said as she choked up, concerned that her neighborhoods sense of community and safety will be gone. This is destroying that, and why would you do that, for what? I just dont get it, Beckmann added. Shes also concerned that limiting ADUs to up to six per lot is still too many. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes also concerned about parking, as the ADUs are being built at the end of a cul-de-sac, with already limited parking for the residents that live there now. One of the 25 regulations that passed on Tuesday changes the parking requirements when ADUs approved in the city. It doesnt help us, does it? Suzanne Steel, who lives down the street from the 17-unit ADU project, questioned. The rules are coming a little too late for the residents near Almayo Avenue. People havent moved in yet and we are already struggling with the cars its just kind of a shame, Steel said. As for the Beckmanns, they are considering packing up their paradise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was our last, expected to be our last home but at the end of the day you have to feel comfortable where you live and I dont think we are going to be comfortable with this, Beckmann added. The newly-approved ADU regulations will head to Mayor Todd Glorias desk for his signature, and then will take effect in 30 days. The city confirmed that any fully completed applications will be processed under the old rules, until the new law takes effect. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. FAIRMONT The Federal Emergency Management Agency has accepted Marion Countys application for relief funds for damages that occurred during the flash flooding on June 15. These declarations will bring meaningful reimbursements to our community, City Manager Travis Blosser said. Were already working with the West Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Marion County Department of Homeland Security to make sure FEMA agents can get their relief stations up and running as soon as possible. News of FEMAs acceptance broke 45 minutes before the regular meeting of Fairmont City Council Tuesday evening. Blosser thanked West Virginias congressional delegation, composed of Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice, and Reps. Riley Moore and Carol Miller, and President Donald Trump. The states congressional delegation sent the Trump administration a letter urging FEMA to accept the states request on June 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his city manager update, Blosser told the council its a developing situation. The city is waiting for more information on when FEMA agents will be here, but said the Public Safety Building and other city facilities will be available for their use. Blosser said he hopes staff will be on the ground sometime in the next seven days, but hes not sure how quickly it will happen. There are some new policy components, typically FEMA was in charge of setting up disaster recovery centers and things like that, Blosser said. That has changed, so the state plays a larger role in getting those facilities set up. Thats why theyre coordinating with us on those locations. Hopefully, tomorrow Ill find out a lot more details, like when they expect to be here. Blosser said that weather events are becoming more frequent and extreme. While unlocking individual assistance for residents impacted by the flood is important, where the FEMA funds will be really beneficial for the city is in the mitigation funds that will be available. We have to be prepared for that, Blosser said. At the end of the day, the City of Fairmont and its residents cant change what is causing that on their own. From our perspective, we just have to plan to be ready for these types of events to hit us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As fossil fuel burning increases the presence of greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide, the atmosphere becomes better at trapping sunlight, which increases the planets overall temperature. As the temperature rises, the oceans evaporate at a higher rate, while at the same time, a hotter atmosphere holds more water vapor. The increased water vapor then returns to Earth through either heavy snows or torrential rain. The cycle repeats. Mayor Anne Bolyard also thanked state and federal elected officials for their response. The outpouring of support from around the state and the country was overwhelming, but this crucial financial assistance from the federal government will make a major difference in many households in Fairmont, Bolyard said. Gov. Patrick Morrisey said in a press release that FEMAs Individual Assistance program will be available to eligible home owners and renters who suffered losses or damage during the flooding. Financial assistance includes money for emergency home repairs, private bridges, private roads, temporary housing, transportation, moving and storage, funeral expenses, uninsured and underinsured property loss and expenses for medical, dental, legal and childcare services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governors office advised residents to file claims with their insurance providers first and then apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. Another option is to call 1-800-621-3362 or download the FEMA Mobile App. In other business: Council also moved forward on its purchase of the U.S. Machine building. Blosser said since city cant borrow money directly, the citys building commission will take on the task of financing the building and then leasing it to the city. The facility, which sits adjacent to the citys current public works facility, will be used to expand the departments space. Blosser said the department currently has limited space to prepare its trucks for the winter months. They need to be inside with salt and cinders in them, not sitting outside in sub-zero weather, Blosser said. As we continue and expand our investments in our public spaces, the trail development, all of those things that are happening, we are going to need to have space to put equipment to store things. I would guarantee our public work staff will have to continually be looked at as to whether or not were expanding our public work staff to meet the needs we have. UK-based digital asset exchange Archax is set to acquire Deutsche Digital Assets (DDA), a regulated crypto asset manager in Germany, in a move that strengthens its footprint in Europes two largest financial markets. DDA manages around $70 million in assets and specializes in crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) distributed through a network of European banks and asset managers. The deal gives Archax new licenses under Germanys BaFin, including permissions for portfolio management and investment advisorykey capabilities for serving institutional clients in the EU. This acquisition builds on Archaxs 2023 purchase of Spanish broker KSCM. With the DDA deal, Archax now holds regulatory approvals in the UK, Germany, France and Spain, allowing it to operate across much of Europes fragmented digital asset landscape. While the UK only recently opened the door to crypto ETPs for professional investors, Germany has had a head start. Archax now gains access to a market already accustomed to these products, along with the regulatory permissions to issue and distribute them. The timing may prove important as market demand for tokenized assets and regulated digital instruments grows amid geopolitical uncertainty. Archax also offers tokenized real-world assetssuch as private equity or real estatealongside its crypto offerings, positioning itself as a bridge between traditional finance and blockchain infrastructure. Archax CEO Graham Rodford said the deal positions his firm as one of the most comprehensively licensed digital asset firms in Europe. DDA managing partner Maximilian Lautenschlager described the move as a natural fit that opens new market channels on both sides of the channel. TOPEKA (KSNT) The City of Topekas Office on Inclusive Communities (OIC) is hosting a back-to-school supply event next month to help local families as they prepare for the coming school year. The City of Topeka and community sponsors are funding an initiative to help some local families get the supplies they need ahead of the 2025-2026 school year. The city hopes the upcoming back-to-school event will ensure every child starts the year with the tools they need to succeed. Families must submit applications to be approved in order to receive school supplies on a first-come, first-serve basis. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, July 30 with the school supply hand-out event coming on Saturday, Aug. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas audit uncovers free student lunch misallocations We want every child in Topeka to feel confident and prepared when they walk into the classroom, said Director of the OIC Monique Glaude. This effort is about equity, dignity, and ensuring access to resources for those who need them most. Eligible families: Must reside in the Topeka community. Households with low to moderate income. Students entering Pre-K through 12th grade. All applicants must meet income eligibility requirements to qualify, If you have any other questions about the supply event, you can contact the OIC by sending an email to oic@topeka.org. For more information on who qualifies, check the flyer below: (Photo Courtesy/City of Topeka) 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 Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. CLEVELAND (WJW) A special and meaningful memorial is planned for a beloved local hiker who was killed two months ago in his own yard. Tom Overall, 68, was a retired Key Bank employee who enjoyed being an usher at Rocket Arena and had a passion for hiking. He was extremely active. If there was a place he could walk to, he would walk to it, said cousin Dean Jacob. In mid-May, Tom had recently earned his 6,000 mile mark and was heading to Spain to hike The Way of St. James with members of the Cleveland Hiking Club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Report: Local football star Jeremiah Kellys cause of death revealed in autopsy He was so excited about that, hed never been to Europe so he was thrilled to be going with Cleveland Hiking Club, said Jacob. But two days before his scheduled departure, police said his neighbor, 66-year-old Bryan Hurt, who had multiple run-ins with the law, shot Tom while he was cutting the grass. Thats something everyones struggled with. People look for an explanation or reason and there really just isnt one, said Jacob. When a person has such strong mental impairment that they would do something as violent and senseless as this, there is no real explanation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats caused the family tremendous shock and sadness, but Dean said theyve been comforted by all of the support theyve received from people in Cleveland. Tom was originally from Missouri, but he absolutely loved Cleveland and a long time ago had adopted it as his forever home. Even people who didnt know Tom have stopped by the house and said I felt like I had to come, said Jacob. Hikers with Cleveland Hiking Club even carried a stone with his name to Spain. They took photos and said a prayer at each stop along the way until they reached the summit and placed it next to a cross. Browns place Deshaun Watson on PUP list as hes expected to miss season Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, they are planning a meaningful event, the Tom Overall 5-Mile Memorial Hike, Thursday, July 31, 7 p.m. at Impett Park on Clevelands west side. Hikers should arrive at least 15 minutes early and enter off W. 153rd between Montrose and Edgecliff avenues. Its a special location not far from Toms home and was very close to his heart. July 31 was his birthday and each year he would lead the hike. Now, family is coming in from across the country and all are welcome to walk the same path they once shared with Tom feeling his spirit and inspiration every step of the way. Its going to be a nice way for people to process the whole thing and remember him, said Jacob. It is a way of carrying things forward. I believe thats why were here. Were here for the people that come after us, so its in that sense Tom is providing for the rest of us now. Advertisement 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. New Cleveland Water Taxi gets you up, down the Cuyahoga River CLEVELAND (WJW) Theres a new mode of transportation helping you get around downtown Cleveland. A new water taxi, brought to you by the folks behind the Cleveland Tiki Barge, is set to launch next week on the Cuyahoga River. New Destination Cleveland cell phone app The Harbor Hopper boat can carry up to 50 passengers and is operating out of the Tiki Barge dock in the Flats West Bank. WJW photo WJW photo Unlike the Metroparks eLCee2 Water Taxi, which operates weekends only with a limited loop between the two banks of the Flats, the Harbor Hopper is running daily and going further down river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are currently four Cleveland Water Taxi stops, including at Collision Bend Crewing Company and Brewdog Cleveland. Public Square Concert Series brings free concerts to Downtown Cleveland Fares start at $10 for a one-time ticket, but go all the way up to $199 for a 2025 season pass. Find out much more about the Cleveland Water Taxi 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. The Trump administrations climate skepticism has not changed minds in Sacramento, evident in regulations that will take effect next year requiring large ag producers and others to report their greenhouse gas emissions to the state. The California Air Resources Board is developing rules consistent with a pair of 2023 state laws, Senate Bills 253 and 261, that will require thousands of the states largest companies to file emissions data. The idea is not to set limits on pollution but to provide greater transparency for investors and consumers. RaboResearch estimates 5,000 companies with annual revenues exceeding $1 billion will have to report certain kinds of emissions starting next year under SB 253. It said 10,000 companies with sales of more than $500 million per year will have to file climate-related financial risk disclosures starting Jan. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The laws appear to run counter to Trump administrations policies, such as its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and its cancellation of $3.1 billion for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant program. But RaboResearch analyst Charlotte Talbott said in a recent report that sustainability will nevertheless remain an important topic for U.S. food and agribusiness corporations. Talbott said by email Tuesday the legislation will be something to watch for in-state food processors or consumer goods companies. While small ag producers such as farmers, ranchers and some packers wont have to file reports, she wrote, they may still feel indirect pressure from their customers who need insight to bolster their own disclosure accuracy. Another reason ag businesses might want to take a look at the reporting, she said, is that environmental shocks envisioned by SB 261 can hit food and agribusiness heavily. She wrote that such companies are reliant on weather and this exercise can help identify hotspots or gaps to address that ultimately improve supply-chain resiliency. Other states are proposing similar disclosure policies, Talbott added, and almost half have committed to greenhouse-gas reduction initiatives. But getting reliable data can be hard and pricey. Supply chains can be fragmented and complicated, making it difficult for food producers and retailers to get an accurate depiction of climate metrics, Talbott pointed out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even so, some California dairy cooperatives use on-farm carbon calculators that can illustrate progress toward environmental goals and lead to production efficiencies. As Talbott reported, gathering the data can be expensive, especially at first. She pointed to a survey that found corporations spend an average of $533,000 on climate disclosures, while investors dedicate $1.4 million per year on climate data to better inform investment decision. Two of Kern Countys largest ag producers, and one company that works with local dairies to capture methane from manure, did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday. A spokesman for the California Air Resources Board said the goal of the disclosure laws is to help equip investors and consumers with consistent, reliable and transparent information about corporate climate impacts and risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To that end, the agency has been hosting stakeholder meetings throughout the year as it crafts regulations that will guide the process, spokesman David Clegern wrote Tuesday. The goal is to support consistency in reporting and clarity on methods, expectations and timetables. He pushed back on any notion that the effort is partisan, saying CARB has worked with Republic and Democratic governors alike, as well as different legislative bodies and across evolving scientific understanding and economic conditions. This history shows that climate and clean air progress is not new, not radical and not partisan, he wrote. Its Californias tradition. NORTHEAST TEXAS (KTAL/KSHV) Many rural communities have limited access to essential medical services, leaving people with serious conditions vulnerable. One healthcare system in Northeast Texas is hoping to change the healthcare landscape by ensuring all families have access to affordable care. Special Health has health centers in Tyler, Longview, Paris, and Texarkana, TX, that offer affordable, comprehensive healthcare for all ages. However, the main way they reach rural communities is through their mobile health clinics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New app that tracks nearby ICE activity launches nationwide These mobile health clinics provide communities with health screenings, prevention testing and other healthcare services. Special Health offers Womens Health on Wheels (WHOW), a service that helps women in Cass, Red River and Panola counties. These mobile units include pap smears, STI testing, breast exams, pregnancy screenings, postnatal care, and birth control services. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans. They also offer self-pay fee discounts based on income and household size. To learn more, visit Special Health. Advertisement 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 KTALnews.com. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Clint Independent School District (ISD) Board of Trustees approved an employee compensation plan for 2025-2026, the school district said in a press release on Tuesday, July 22. The school district says classroom teachers with three to four years of experience will receive a $2,500 increase to their base salary and those with five or more years of experience will receive a $5,000 increase. The increases are made possible through the newly implemented Teacher Retention Allotment (TRA), a state-funded initiative aimed at retaining experienced educators across Texas, the school district said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be eligible for TRA funding, an educator needs to deliver a minimum of four hours of direct instruction to students each instructional day, the school district said. The board also approved a 3.5 percent salary increase from the pay grade midpoint for all other employees who are not eligible for the TRA. This includes early-career teachers, instructional aides, technical and auxiliary staff, administrators, and other district personnel, the school district said. The school district says it may need to revisit compensation if state funding levels change. We are incredibly proud to offer a compensation package that honors the dedication and hard work of our employees. By investing in our staff, we are directly investing in student success and the future of our community. Clint ISD Superintendent Juan I. Martinez Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A store at a busy mall in Beavercreek is closed through August. American Eagle Outfitters, located at 4449 Glengarry Drive in The Greene Town Center, will not reopen until the end of August. Kings Island hiring for Halloween Haunt 2025 The Greene announced the closure in a social media post, saying the heating and air system needed improved. American Eagle will be temporarily closed through the end of August for HVAC repairs and renovations, said The Greene. We apologize for any inconvenience, and look forward to welcoming you back when they re-open! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the store is closed, shoppers can visit other nearby American Eagle locations at Cincinnati Premium Outlets in Monroe, Dayton Mall in Miami Township and Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CNN host Abby Phillip oversaw a heated debate Tuesday over President Donald Trumps recent attacks against former President Barack Obama, which included him sharing an artificial intelligence-generated video of Obama being arrested and in prison. Trump shared the video on Sunday on social media after his director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, issued a report Friday accusing the Obama White House of a treasonous conspiracy by stating Russia aimed to help Trump win the 2016 presidential election. Hes accusing a former president of treason, and on top of that, saying ... It may not be right, but Im gonna go after them anyway, Phillip said Tuesday. What is he talking about? And what kind of country are we living in that is actually what he is doing? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her panelists quickly clashed over the subject, as Republican consultant Brad Todd argued in a seeming attempt to excuse Trumps behavior that Democrats have accused him of for several years of rigging the 2016 election with Russias help. Oh my God, replied Keith Boykin, a former White House aide to President Bill Clinton. Why are we talking about this? This is not the issue. Youre trying to avoid the subject. Todd noted that a spokesperson for Obama reiterated Tuesday that Russia tried but failed to manipulate any votes in the election. He appeared far angrier about every liberal in America supposedly believing otherwise, however, than about Trump accusing Obama. Youre doing everything possible not to talk about the fact that the ... current president of the United States, just accused a former president of treason and suggested a prosecution of that former president with no evidence! Boykin said. That is the problem! Boykin: The current president just accused a former president of treason and suggested a prosecution of that former president with no evidence. Todd: You can calm down. pic.twitter.com/kX0CYd9f4L Acyn (@Acyn) July 23, 2025 You can calm down, Todd responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No, Im not gonna calm down! Boykin replied. Why dont you talk about that instead of talking about Obama? Todd argued, Because Obama just undid three years of Democrat mythology. Todd was referencing a statement Tuesday from Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush, who reaffirmed that Russia indeed worked to influence the 2016 election, but did not successfully manipulate any votes, which has been known since at least 2020. [Russian President Vladimir] Putin and the Russian Government demonstrated a preference for candidate Trump, a bipartisan Senate Intelligence Report stated at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbards report and the fake video Trump shared only emerged after his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the late sex offender who died in jail while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, hit fever pitch leading many to believe these stunts are mere distractions. The problem is, this is what Trump does. He distracts everybody. Hes talking about President Obama because he doesnt want to talk about Epstein, said Boykin. Hes doing everything possible except talking about Jeffrey Epstein because hes trying to throw up distraction[s] so the people like you, he added, Todd, can come on TV and try to diffuse the issue. Related... A CNN panel show turned into a cable-news cage match Tuesday night after Donald Trump accused former President Barack Obama of treason, without offering a shred of evidence. Trump baselessly declared that Obama is guilty of disloyalty to his country and even floated the idea of prosecuting him. Its there, hes guilty. This was treason, he said on Tuesday, in the Oval Office. Many have dubbed the latest salvo from the Trump administration a calculated distraction from the renewed scrutiny over the presidents links to Jeffrey Epstein. A spokesperson for Obama called the allegations bizarre, and dubbed them a ridiculous and weak attempt at distraction. The topic led to an explosive argument on NewsNight, with host Abby Phillip setting the stage by reacting to Trumps inflammatory rant. Hes accusing a former president of treason and on top of that saying, It may not be right, but Im gonna go after them anyway. What is he talking about? And what kind of country are we living in that that is actually what he is doing? she said. Black's death comes as Trump desperately tries to distance himself from Epstein. / Davidoff Studios Photography / Getty Images From there, the table combusted. GOP strategist Brad Todd swerved to Democrats and Russia, prompting a sharp interjection from Phillip: But its been eight years since the immediate aftermath of the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Clinton aide Keith Boykin wasnt having it. Youre doing everything possible not to talk about the fact that the president of the United States... just accused a former president of treason and suggested a prosecution... with no evidence! he shouted. Todd dismissed him, barking, You can calm down. But Boykin snapped back: No, Im not gonna calm down! The problem is this is what Trump does, Boykin added. Hes talking about President Obama because he doesnt wanna talk about Epstein. Todd claimed that Boykin was violently shutting him down. It comes as Trump is feeling the pressure because the Epstein story refuses to go away. On Tuesday, the flames were fanned by CNN, which unearthed new images and clips that shed new light on the relationship between Trump and the sex offender. Trump is desperately trying to avoid talking about Epstein, so he has manufactured a scandal around former president, Barack Obama. / Joe Raedle/Getty Images CNNs KFILE team uncovered two photographs placing the disgraced financier at Trumps December 1993 wedding to Martha Maples at the Plaza Hotel in New York. The outlet also obtained video footage from a 1999 Victorias Secret runway show in New York, where Trumpjoined by his future wife, Melaniawas seen chatting with Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another photo, taken at the October 1993 grand opening of the Harley Davidson Cafe in Manhattan, shows Epstein standing beside Trump, who has his arms around his young children, Eric and Ivanka, then ages 9 and 11. It comes after Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard last week alleged that her office had uncovered a treasonous scheme by the Obama administration to sabotage Trumps 2016 election by fueling accusations of Russian interferenceallegations that have since been widely substantiated. SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) Central New York law enforcement agencies have been granted more than $3.6 million to prevent gun violence, the state announced on Wednesday, July 23. The funding is available through the states Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative to help reduce shootings across New York. New Yorks GIVE initiative is a crucial part of our comprehensive plan to reduce shootings and firearm-related violent crime and its working. But we will not stop fighting for safer streets until all New Yorkers feel safe, said Governor Hochul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the release, the Syracuse Police Department reported fewer individuals killed by gun violence during the first half of 2025, with five deaths compared to seven in the same period last year. Syracuses number of shooting incidents with injury, and the number of individuals shot, remain well below five-year averages. The following agencies in Central New York will receive a total of more than $3.6 million in funding: Cayuga County $372,034 Auburn Police Department $182,517 Cayuga County District Attorneys Office $82,197 Cayuga County Probation Department $80,320 Cayuga County Sheriffs Office $27,000 Onondaga County $3,252,435 Onondaga County District Attorney $1,101,720 Onondaga County Probation Department $370,211 Onondaga County Sheriffs Office $450,000 Syracuse City Police Department $1,330,504 Advertisement 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 WSYR. [Watch in the player above: What happens when you call 911?] ROCKY RIVER, Ohio (WJW) The U.S. Coast Guard was called to assist with a water rescue on Lake Erie in Rocky River, authorities have confirmed. Units were called to the 19800 block of Frazier Drive on Tuesday evening, Rocky River police confirmed to FOX 8 News. 2 teens killed in weekend Cleveland crash identified Thats near the intersection of Collver Road and the Lake Erie shore, just west of Clifton Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities just after 6 p.m. on Tuesday confirmed everyone had been rescued. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WJET/WFXP) Two people were rescued by the Coast Guard after their boat caught fire early Wednesday morning on Lake Erie. On Wednesday, July 23, the U.S. Coast Guard station in Buffalo, New York, responded to a reported vessel fire about two miles from their station just shortly after 7:30 a.m. Estimated 1.5 acres burned during Conneaut brush fire According to responders, two people were rescued from the 24-foot boat and taken to the Coast Guard station for medical evaluation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Photo provided by: Coast Guard Great Lakes District Photo provided by: Coast Guard Great Lakes District Photo provided by: Coast Guard Great Lakes 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." This is a PSA to all K-Cup users. You're going to want to double-check your coffee pods, especially if you tend to shop at Costco, Kroger, or Walmart. A popular brand, New Mexico Pinon Coffee, is recalling one of its products due to a defect with its pods. According to the recall, the pods could potentially introduce food coloring into the cup during brewing. More specifically, the ink from the pods can leak into your coffee when reaching certain high temperatures. The recall only involves the brand's Single Serve Cups in a 10-count box, with the lot code 251749 and a use-by date of May 8, 2026. To date, there have been no reports of illness or injury, but the company has voluntarily recalled its pods out of an abundance of caution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recall states that consumers who have purchased the affected products should either throw them away or return the products to their retailer for a refund. If you're looking for a substitute for your go-to coffee pods, fret not. There are plenty of delicious alternatives, whether you're looking for a medium, light, or espresso-style roast. Delish editors love brands like Dunkin', Starbucks, The Original Donut Shop, and Peet's for classic blends and roasts. If you're looking for fun, flavorful varieties, Crazy Cups offers a variety pack with options like Death by Chocolate, Vanilla Pumpkin Spice, and Cinnamon French Toast. With flavors like that, it might just turn me into a coffee lover yet! Original Blend Medium Roast Coffee $43.98 at amazon.com Light Roast Coffee Morning Blend $20.69 at amazon.com Espresso Style Dark Roast Coffee $29.94 at amazon.com Brew Over Ice Classic Black Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement $11.96 at amazon.com Barista Prima Italian Roast $48.99 at amazon.com Dark Roast Major Dickason's Blend $42.98 at amazon.com You Might Also Like Corn grows in a field in southeastern South Dakota in August 2023. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Very little of South Dakotas corn is used to produce sweetened beverages, but the crops boosters in the state say a nationwide shift toward cane sugar is an unwelcome sign for corn farmers. Coca-Cola announced its intention to offer cane sugar-sweetened beverages this week. The company said its new beverages are designed to complement the companys strong core portfolio, rather than replace its regular products, which are sweetened by high-fructose corn syrup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement during the companys second-quarter earnings report confirmed a decision President Donald Trump talked about on Truth Social, his own social media platform. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trumps secretary of Health and Human Services, has blamed the widely used corn-based sweetener for contributing to a U.S. obesity epidemic. Cane sugar and high-fructose corn syrup are nutritionally interchangeable, according to the American Medical Association and most scientific studies on the topic. But concerns about the syrups status as a processed food product from high-profile advocates, including from Kennedy during his former career as an author and activist, have helped push consumer sentiment toward cane sugar. Mexico, the United Kingdom, Spain and France are among the countries where Coca-Cola is sweetened with cane sugar. Syrups place in the corn market Farmers in the U.S. plant more than 90 million acres of corn a year, but only 3-4% is refined to produce high-fructose corn syrup for use in everything from beverages to breads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats significant enough to rankle corn groups nationally. The Corn Refiners Association responded to Trumps announcement by saying the move would hurt U.S. farmers and lead to a loss of manufacturing jobs. South Dakota produced the sixth-largest corn harvest in the U.S. in 2024, but its corn crop is less likely than most to be turned into syrup. Most South Dakota corn is used for ethanol and livestock feed. There are no wet mills in the state for syrup production, said DaNita Murray, executive director of the trade group South Dakota Corn. Even so, Murray calls the move from Coca-Cola a marketing decision that throws the health value of her organizations commodity into question, and potentially pushes down demand for it. We firmly believe that demand is demand, and we dont like the accusation that were raising poison, Murray said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Changes to demand could ultimately impact South Dakota producers, Murray said, particularly if the U.S. were to follow the lead of some other countries and restrict the use of high-fructose corn syrup. Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, R-Florida, introduced legislation last year that would ban the product. Murray pointed to industry-funded research from North Dakota State University that concluded such a scenario would lead to a price decline for corn of between 15 and 34 cents per bushel, with associated reductions in corn cash receipts estimated between $2.2 billion and $5.1 billion. Under that hypothetical scenario, South Dakotas local corn prices would suffer, Murray said. South Dakota immediate impacts: Perception more than prices Thats an important point for Doug Sombke of the South Dakota Farmers Union. Hes not so sure a dip in demand for corn from a loss of corn syrup production would make much of a difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The price of corn is always a concern, Sombke said, but he doesnt see corn syrup usage as making even a pennys difference per bushel unless something radical happens. Really, in the grand scheme of things, for the family farmer, its so small, Sombke said. Sombke would like to see more ethanol production and more diversity in farm operations and crops in the field. The price of corn hasnt kept pace with the cost of doing business, he said, even as high fructose corn syrup has proliferated across the U.S. food system. Sombke sees the fight over cane sugar as one focused more on the commodity than the producer. In the U.S., cane sugar production is centered in southern states like Florida, Georgia and Louisiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is cane versus corn, Sombke said. Corn has advantages in that fight, according to Jim Ketelhut, president of the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council. He isnt worried about an immediate impact to prices, but said its unfortunate that corn has gotten a black eye in the public consciousness. The switch from cane sugar to corn syrup decades ago was a matter of price and utility, he said. If sugar is sugar, as Ketelhut put it, theres little but extra cost to be gained by a shift away from corn syrup. The reason its used so much is that its highly available, and its economical for the end users, Ketelhut said. Those are the good things nobody talks about. Body camera footage shows a Mesa County Sheriffs deputy conducting a traffic stop of Utah student Caroline Dias Goncalves on June 5, 2025. Dias Goncalves was arrested by federal immigration authorities shortly thereafter. (Screenshot from Mesa County Sheriffs Officer YouTube) Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said Tuesday that he had taken legal action against a Mesa County sheriffs deputy over an alleged violation of state laws prohibiting coordination between local police and federal immigration agents. The civil complaint, filed in Mesa County District Court, alleges that Investigator Alexander Zwinck intentionally violated Colorado law by sending messages to a Signal group chat with federal law enforcement, leading to the arrest of a Utah college student last month. State law bars government employees, including law enforcement officers, from sharing information for the purposes of investigating for, participating in, cooperating with, or assisting in federal immigration enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Caroline Dias Goncalves was detained by ICE in Grand Junction on June 5, shortly after being pulled over by Zwinck in a separate traffic stop, from which she was let go with a warning. Zwinck has been placed on leave amid an internal investigation into whether the messages complied with state law and departmental policies. Body camera footage released by the department at the time showed a traffic stop lasting nearly 20 minutes, during which Zwinck asked Dias Goncalvez, who was born in Brazil and brought to the U.S. by her parents as a 7-year-old, whether she was born and raised in Utah, after noting she had a little bit of an accent. Weisers lawsuit alleges that Zwinck sent a photo of Dias Goncalves license to the Signal chat within minutes of pulling her over, and federal agents ran her information through several databases accessible only by federal law enforcement. Four minutes later, a federal immigration officer informed Deputy Zwinck in the Signal Chat that the officers searches revealed no criminal history. The immigration officer stated: Not seeing crim history, but I believe she has immigration issues. We are confirming, the lawsuit says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zwinck continued to communicate with federal agents throughout the traffic stop, during which he eventually asked Dias Goncalves to exit her vehicle and come to the passenger seat his patrol car while he did paperwork, a move that Weisers lawsuit characterizes as stalling. He then provided information about Dias Goncalves vehicle and direction of travel, and told federal officers nice work after hearing she was detained. These actions by the sheriffs deputy were for the sole purpose of immigration enforcement, Weiser said in a press conference in Denver. He assisted federal immigration officers apprehending the driver after the routine traffic stop and where there was no relevant criminal activity. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Dias Goncalves, a nursing student at the University of Utah with no criminal record, was then held at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Aurora for 15 days before being released on bond, an experience she described as nightmare. The share of people taken into ICE custody despite having no criminal record has risen sharply since January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was away from her home, her friends, her family, and she was filled with fear, said Weiser. This action that happened to her was wrong. Weiser said his offices focus is on primarily stopping this from happening again. As a civil action, the states lawsuit could lead to an injunction, fines or other remedies through litigation, or the defendant could choose to enter into a consent decree agreeing to follow state law. Thats going to be up to the sheriffs deputy how they approach this litigation, whether its through consent or through an adversarial proceeding, Weiser said. Colorado Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Colorado Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Quentin Young for questions: info@coloradonewsline.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE DENVER Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser is suing the Colorado sheriffs deputy who pulled over a University of Utah student originally from Brazil last month, precipitating her detention by federal immigration authorities. The civil lawsuit filed Tuesday by Weiser in Mesa County District Court in Grand Junction, Colorado, cites Colorado law limiting the authority of state agencies and employees to cooperate with federal immigration officials. Mesa County sheriffs deputy Alexander Zwinck allegedly tipped off immigration agents to Caroline Dias Goncalves after pulling her over along I-70 in Mesa County on June 5 for following a semitruck too closely, according to the suit. Immigration officials subsequently detained her, and she was held in a Colorado immigration detention facility for 15 days before her release on June 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State law specifies that Colorado law enforcement officers are dedicated to enforcing Colorado law and do not do the work of the federal government to enforce immigration law, Weiser said in a statement. In this case, the driver was detained by immigration authorities because of actions by Colorado law enforcement despite the absence of any criminal activity on her part. Her detention for over two weeks is directly due to this violation of Colorados laws. The potential upshot of the new lawsuit is limited. The suit seeks an order from the court declaring that Zwincks actions violate state law and another order preventing the deputy from violating the state laws in question. Still, it stands as a rebuke to the deputy and his cooperative efforts with federal immigration officials, who have stepped up efforts across the country under President Donald Trump to detain and deport immigrants in the country illegally. Because of this action, we are making clear that Colorado law enforcements role is to advance public safety, not take on the responsibility of doing the work of federal immigration enforcement, Weiser said. His office said the law Zwinck allegedly violated allows for fines of up to $50,000, while any disciplinary action would come from the Mesa County Sheriffs Office. The sheriffs office, which had placed Zwinck on administrative leave last month in the wake of the incident to investigate the matter, said the probe continues. It didnt comment on the new lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mesa County Sheriffs Office is within one week of completing the administrative investigation into the June 5, 2025, incident involving Ms. Diaz Goncalves. We are committed to transparency in this process and, as such, once the administrative investigation is complete we will provide a formal statement, Molly Casey, the offices public information officer, said in a statement Tuesday. Dias Goncalves, studying nursing at the University of Utah, didnt immediately respond to a query seeking comment. Now 19, shes originally from Brazil and allegedly overstayed the visa allowing her to enter to the United States more than a decade ago, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. After Dias Goncalves was pulled over along I-70 last month, Zwinck uploaded the drivers license and vehicle registration form she gave him to a Signal chat group that included federal immigration officers, according to the suit. It says he stalled Dias Goncalves while federal authorities conducted a background check, ultimately letting her go with a warning after conveying their location to federal agents. The federal officials, in the interim, had sent a message to Zwinck via Signal indicating Dias Goncalves nationality and migratory status that read, Brazilian national, visa overstay. No crim (sic), no financials or HSI cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Zwinck eventually released the driver at 1:55 p.m. with the warning, approximately five minutes after providing his and the drivers location to the federal immigration officers. Deputy Zwinck never told the driver that federal immigration officers were en route to their location, the lawsuit says. After that, Zwinck provided location data that enabled the federal immigration officers to stop the driver for the purpose of immigration enforcement and also advised the authorities that Dias Goncalves speaks English. One minute later, a federal immigration officer informed deputy Zwinck that they stopped the drivers vehicle, according to the suit. Editors Note: A lawsuit only portrays one side of a story. DENVER, Colorado (ABC4) The Colorado Attorney General (AG) filed a lawsuit against the Mesa County sheriffs deputy who illegally shared information with federal immigration officials that led to the detainment of a 19-year-old University of Utah Student last month. On Tuesday, Colorado AG Phil Weiser filed the lawsuit against Deputy Alexander Zwinck, alleging that he violated Colorado law by working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials to detain Caroline Dias Goncalves, the 19-year-old University of Utah student who was arrested by ICE following a routine traffic stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: From a road trip to ICE detention Caroline Dias Concalves story On June 5, Caroline Dias Goncalves was stopped by Deputy Zwinck for following too close to a semi-truck on I-70 near Loma, Colorado. She cooperated with the deputy and was allowed to continue on her road trip about 20 minutes later. According to a news release about the lawsuit, Deputy Zwinck immediately uploaded her personal information to a Signal group chat that included federal immigration officers. Allegedly, he was told that she had no criminal history but was a Brazilian national on an expired visa. Instead of ending communications because there were no criminal matters to follow up on, he assisted ICE officers in detaining Dias Goncalves. According to the state investigation, Zwinck provided his location to the federal immigration officers in the chat and then stalled Dias Goncalves for at least five minutes, asking her about her national origin, her accent, and where she was from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When she left, he again messaged the chat and provided federal immigration officers with a description of her car, her license plate number, and the direction she was traveling. Allegedly, after ICE officials took Dias Goncalves into custody, Zwinck messaged to the chat, Nice work. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: U of U student detained by ICE speaks out following release State law specifies that Colorado law enforcement officers are dedicated to enforcing Colorado law and do not do the work of the federal government to enforce immigration law. In this case, the driver was detained by immigration authorities because of actions by Colorado law enforcement despite the absence of any criminal activity on her part. Her detention for over two weeks is directly due to this violation of Colorados laws. Because of this action, we are making clear that Colorado law enforcements role is to advance public safety, not take on the responsibility of doing the work of federal immigration enforcement. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser According to the lawsuit, Deputy Zwinck also assisted ICE officials in violation of Colorado law on other occasions. He allegedly continued to do this despite receiving an email in January from the sheriffs office operations division chief advising that Colorado law restricts their ability to enforce immigration issues and cooperate with ICE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 6, after Dias Goncalves was detained, another officer in the chat commented that he would get ERO interdictor of the year. ERO stands for Enforcement and Removal Operations, and it is a section of ICE. The Mesa County Sheriffs Office told ABC4.com that they are within one week of completing the administrative investigation into the incident. We are committed to transparency in this process, said Molly Casey, the public information officer for the sheriffs office. She also said that they will release a formal statement once the investigation is complete. Previously, the Sheriffs Office stated that they were unaware that the Signal chat was used for the purpose of ICE enforcement, and since then, they have removed all officers from that chat. The chat was created for the purpose of stopping illegal drug trafficking in Colorado, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Colorado law C.R.S. 24-74-103(1), 24-74-104(1), local agencies like police departments and sheriffs offices are prohibited from disclosing personal identifying information for the purpose of investigating for, participating in, cooperating with, or assisting federal immigration enforcement. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DENVER (KDVR) Del Taco has reopened a handful of its locations in Colorado after a sudden months-long closure, and the company said people can look forward to something new as more locations open across the state. In February this year, the doors closed at all but one Del Taco location in Grand Junction. Signs were posted saying franchise locations would be closed until further notice. Previous: Del Taco says sudden closure of Colorado locations is temporary Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, a spokesperson for the company confirmed to FOX31 that the restaurants were beginning to reopen one by one, and they would be owned and operated by Del Taco Corporate. On Tuesday, the company announced that it is launching the phased opening of 17 corporate-owned locations across the Front Range. Five have already reopened, including: 7506 Parkway Dr., Lone Tree Opened 6/21/2025 1645 Space Center Dr., Colorado Springs Opened 6/22/2025 11053 I-25 Frontage Road, Firestone Opened 6/24/2025 8100 Northfield Blvd., Denver Opened 6/30/2025 24023 E. Prospect Ave, Aurora Opened 7/14/2025 The company said 12 more of the former locations will reopen one by one over the summer, and one former restaurant located at 3465 N. Salida St. will remain closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the reopening comes some new changes, including new digital ordering kiosks and the return of over 1 lb. burritos. The company said guests will also find new value bundles on the menu, like the $5 and more El Big Boxes. The company said it is actively hiring across all locations and plans to host local hiring events through July and August. Some staff members from the previously closed locations were welcomed back to their jobs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Beata Zawrzel / NurPhoto via Getty Images AstraZenecas expanded investment plan comes as President Trump threatens to levy tariffs of up to 200% on drugs made outside the U.S. AstraZeneca (AZN) said Tuesday it's planning to invest $50 billion in expanding its manufacturing and research presence in the U.S. by 2030, as worries about President Donald Trumps tariffs loom over the industry. The U.K.-based drugmaker said it plans to build a facility in Virginia, its largest globally, that will focus on producing weight-loss and metabolic drug substances including oral GLP-1, baxdrostat, oral PCSK9, and combination small molecule products. The funds will largely go toward building that new plant, but will also be used to expand facilities in Maryland, Massachusetts, and other states, including Indiana. The $50 billion investment plan is on top of a $3.5 billion plan the company announced in November last year, and comes as President Trump threatens to levy tariffs of up to 200% on drugs made outside the U.S. In April, Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis (NVS) said it plans to invest $23 billion in the construction and expansion of 10 U.S. facilities, just months after rival drugmaker Eli Lilly (LLY) said it would invest at least $27 billion to build four new pharmaceutical manufacturing sites in the U.S., and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) said it intended to raise its domestic investments to $55 billion over the next four years. AstraZeneca shares, which entered Tuesday up around 5% this year, gained 2% in recent trading. This article has been updated since it was first published to reflect more recent share price values. Read the original article on Investopedia COLORADO (KDVR) Theyre calling it one of the worst cases they have ever seen: A Colorado puppy mill rescue group recently pulled 165 schnauzers from a property in southwest Colorado. National Mill Dog Rescue brought the dogs to its Peyton location to be de-matted and checked out by a veterinarian. They continue to settle into their new environment. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rescues founder and executive director says they were initially called in by the Bureau of Animal Protection. Tuesday, 57 of the schnauzers were loaded onto a plane, headed for Race for Life Rescue, in Michigan. A schnauzer rescued from an alleged puppy mill in southwestern Colorado. (KDVR) A schnauzer rescued from an alleged puppy mill in southwestern Colorado. (KDVR) The remaining dogs should be eligible for adoption in a couple of weeks. For more information, please see nmdr.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 FOX31 Denver. DENVER (AP) Colorados Democratic attorney general on Tuesday sued a sheriffs deputy for allegedly helping federal immigration agents find and arrest a college student who had an expired visa. Attorney General Phil Weiser also disclosed that his office is investigating whether other law enforcement officers on a regional drug task force the deputy worked on have been sharing information to help federal agents make immigration arrests in violation of state law limiting cooperation in immigration enforcement. The federal government has sued Colorado over such laws. On June 5, Mesa County Deputy Alexander Zwinck allegedly shared the drivers license, vehicle registration and insurance information of the 19-year-old nursing student in a Signal chat used by task force members, according to the lawsuit. The task force includes officers who work for federal Homeland Security Investigations, which can enforce immigration laws, the lawsuit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After federal immigration officers told him in the chat that the student did not have a criminal history but had an expired visa, Zwinck allegedly provided them with their location and told her to wait with him in his patrol car for about five minutes, asking about her accent and where she was born. He let her go with a warning and gave federal agents a description of her vehicle and told her which direction she was headed so they could arrest her, the lawsuit said. When Zwinck was told of the arrest, the lawsuit said he congratulated the federal agents, saying rgr, nice work. The following day, one federal immigration agent praised Zwinck's work in the chat, saying he should be named interdictor of the year" for the removal division of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Zwinck is also accused of violating the law again on June 10 by providing immigration officers with the photo of the license of another driver who had overstayed his visa, information about the person's vehicle and directions to help them arrest the driver. After being told that immigration officers would want him, Zwinck replied that We better get some bitchin (sic) Christmas baskets from you guys, the lawsuit said. The Mesa County Sheriff's Office declined to comment on the lawsuit. Spokesperson Molly Casey said the office is about a week away from finishing its internal investigation into the student's traffic stop and plans to issue a statement after it is finished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A working telephone number could not be found for Zwinck, who was placed on paid leave during the sheriff's office's investigation. Casey declined to provide the name of an attorney who might be able to speak on his behalf. The sheriff's office previously announced that all its employees have been removed from the Signal group chat. Weiser said he was acting under a new state law that bars employees of local governments from sharing identifying information about people with federal immigration officials, a recent expansion of state laws limiting cooperation in immigration cases. Previously, the ban on sharing personal identifying information only applied to state agencies, but state lawmakers voted to expand that to local government agencies earlier this year. One of our goals in enforcing this law is to make clear that this law is not optional. This is a requirement and it's one that we take seriously, he said. The law allows violators to be fined but Weiser's lawsuit only seeks a judge's order declaring that Zwinck's actions violated the law and barring him from such actions in the future. July 23 (UPI) -- Columbia University has disciplined dozens of pro-Palestine protesters amid pressure from the Trump administration, which has targeted the school amid its crackdown on left-leaning ideology. In a statement Tuesday, the school said the unspecified sanctions were administered after its University Judicial Board determined they were warranted concerning the disruption of Butler Library in May and the Spring 2024 encampment during Alumni Weekend. The number of students punished was not mentioned, but sources told CNN that it was more than 70. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While the University does not release individual disciplinary results of any student, the sanctions from Butler Library included probation, suspensions (ranging from one year to three years), degree revocations and expulsions," Columbia said in a statement. The announcement comes as the school faces pressure from the Trump administration, which has targeted universities -- in particular elite schools -- over left-leaning activism it describes as anti-Israel and anti-Semitic and diversity, equity and inclusion policies. The Trump administration has claimed protests that erupted across campuses nationwide demonstrating against Israel's war in Gaza were violent and anti-Semitic, and has used them to punish those institutions. At Columbia, pro-Palestine protesters on May 7 disrupted a portion of Butler, occupying rooms there and vandalizing property, resulting in two public safety officers sustaining injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, the Trump administration canceled some $400 million in federal grants and contracts to the university "due to the school's continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students." Columbia has said the halt in funding forced it to lay off 180 researchers. Columbia said since March it has responded to the Trump administration by instituting what it has called structural reforms and other improvements. "Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community," Columbia said in the Tuesday statement. "And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institution's fundamental work, policies and rules. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policy and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since returning to power in January, President Donald Trump has used his executive powers to go after the United States universities, in particular its Ivy League schools. In April, he signed an executive order to reform the university accreditation system to penalize those that employ DEI policies. Harvard University has taken the Trump administration to court over the president's freezing of more than $2.4 billion in what the school said was a pressure campaign "to force Harvard to submit to the government's control over its academic programs." This month, it has launched four federal investigations into George Mason University over its alleged DEI policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations lambasted Columbia on Tuesday for its "grotesquely oppressive" decision to mass-punish its students. "The students sat in unity to urge ending complicity in an active genocide. Columbia, seemingly bowing to political pressure from the Trump administration, has done more than undermine free speech and higher education. The University has sold its morality, academic integrity and commitment to students," CAIR-NY executive Director Afaf Nasher said in a statement. Students who participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations at Columbia University will be disciplined, according to a Tuesday announcement from the university. That includes nearly 80 students who took part in protests inside Columbia Universitys main library in May and an encampment during alumni weekend last year, according to student group Columbia University Apartheid Divest. Those student protesters now face expulsion or suspension for one to three years in addition to probation and degree revocations, according to the university. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community. And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences, the university said. The response comes amid negotiations with the Trump administration to restore $400 million in federal funding to the institution over campus antisemitism. Columbia announced in May that it would lay off nearly 180 staffers due to funding issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The battle between the Trump administration and Columbia began when the institution was issued an ultimatum in March either abide by a list of requirements laid out for them or jeopardize its continued financial relationship with the United States government. The university had become known for its campus protests in response to the war in Gaza in addition to an encampment that took over a campus building in April. In response to the administrations demands, Columbia later agreed to implement a list of policy changes, including adopting a new definition of antisemitism, overhauling its rules for protests and conducting an immediate review of its Middle Eastern studies department. When Harvard University was later sent a list of demands, the institution pushed back through two lawsuits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quickly following in Harvards footsteps, Columbia pledged not to make any agreement with the federal government that would relinquish our independence and autonomy, according to a message from the universitys president. In response to the announced discipline of student protesters, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) said Columbia has more progress to make before Jewish students feel safe on campus. The Committees work has underscored the depth and breadth of antisemitism at Columbia that cant be ignored. We will continue to investigate antisemitism at Columbia and other universities and develop legislative solutions to address this persistent problem. Our nations institutions of higher education must fulfill their legal obligations under federal antidiscrimination law, he said in a statement. The Trump administration also has gone after individual protesters, such as Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful U.S. resident who was a graduate student at Columbia until December. Khalil was detained in March for engaging in pro-Palestinian protests and faced potential deportation. He is now suing the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the list of demands was sent to Columbia, the Trump administration hasnt backed down. In June, the U.S. Department of Education threatened Columbias accreditation due to its response to campus antisemitism. The departments Office for Civil Rights notified Middle States Commission on Higher Education that Columbia is in violation of federal antidiscrimination laws, which do not meet accreditation standards. Columbia University is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Education for failing to protect Jewish students from antisemitic discrimination and harassment. Six Massachusetts institutions are also part of the investigation. More Higher Ed Read the original article on MassLive. Columbia University just jeopardized the academic careers of dozens of its own students for protesting against Israels ongoing genocide in Gaza. On Monday, more than 70 Columbia students were notified that they would be suspended, placed on probation, expelled, or even have their degrees revoked for taking part in an occupation of Butler Library in May. The students entered the librarys main room in protest, chanting slogans and occupying it for a teach-in in honor of Bassel al-Araj, a Palestinian activist assassinated by Israeli soldiers in 2017. Unidentified police officers physically clashed with the students until they started making mass arrests. Columbia responded to the teach-in by illegally kettling and body slamming protesters who asked to leave, resulting in hospitalization of four students with concussions, the Columbia University Apartheid and Divest group, or CUAD, wrote in a statement on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This move comes as the university is completely bending the knee to Trump in order to restore $400 million in federal grants that the administration is withholding. It also comes just days after the university already ceded a major deal with the Trump administration to crack down on what the administration perceives as antisemitic activity on campus. The president spent months calling out the university, baselessly accusing student protesters of collaborating with Hamas, among other allegations. The universitys sanctions this week demand that students apologize for protesting if they want their punishment to be lightened. The sanctions are believed to be part of a federal deal Columbia is about to announce that includes a formal partnership with the zionist Anti-Defamation League and an agreement to use the [International Holocaust Remembrance Alliances] definition of antisemitism, which equates criticism of Israel with discrimination against Jews, CUAD wrote in the same statement. In collaboration with the Trump administration, Columbias Acting President and Board of Trustees Co-Chair, Claire Shipman, illegally restructured the University Judicial Board (UJB) and removed student members and faculty oversight to pursue exceptionally harsh sanctions against its own students. The UJBs Rules Administrator, akin to a prosecutor, filed charges after protestors flooded Columbias largest library to share a syllabus and readings about al-Araj and demand Columbia divest from the Israeli war machine. This is the same university that sold Mahmoud Khalil, one of its own graduates, out to ICE for simply being a politically active pro-Palestinain voice on campus. While devastating for these students, its unsurprising that the Ivy League institution would rather sacrifice students who are peacefully protesting to please the Trump administration. This was a heavily coordinated attack not only on free speech but on any criticism of Israel and the current destruction its leveled against Gaza for nearly three years now. And aside from caving to the Trump administration, the university has worked with Columbia Alumni for Israel, which is believed to rely on the shadowy blacklist Canary Mission to identify students to punish. Every university in Gaza has been destroyed. Hundreds of academics have been killed. Books and archives have been incinerated. Entire families have been erased from the civil registry. This is not a war. It is a campaign of erasure, CUADs statement read. We will not be deterred. We are committed to the struggle for Palestinian liberation. Pro-Palestinian protesters who stormed Columbia Universitys library have been banned from campus. A source told The Telegraph that 56 or more of the 70 students involved in the incident would not be allowed to return. The bans will last for between one and three years, the New York Post said. All 70 students involved in the unrest were formally disciplined on Monday, it is understood. Some of them had their degrees revoked or were permanently expelled, according to a statement on the universitys website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident took place in May, with masked and hooded protesters swarming the New York-based universitys library and refusing to leave. Protesters gather inside the Butler Library on Columbia Universitys campus in New York - Ryan Murphy/REUTERS At the time, authorities said 80 protesters were arrested with those involved facing up to three months in jail. Columbia alumni and students from other universities were among those detained. Two campus public safety officers were injured as the demonstrators forced their way into the Butler Library, where students were revising ahead of their final exams before the summer break. Protesters were demanding an amnesty for students facing disciplinary action after last summers protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also demanded the release of activists facing deportation including Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder, who was arrested and detained by ICE agents in March and flown to an immigration jail in Louisiana. Mr Khalil has since been released. Mahmoud Khalil was arrested and detained by ICE agents in March - Ted Shaffrey/AP Secretary of State Marco Rubio said those on student visas are facing deportation. Students involved in similar demonstrations have previously been suspended or had their degrees revoked. The university, one of the most prestigious in the US, called police after protesters refused to leave. The university took around five hours to call in the police report, according to Fox News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In spite of the delay, the Trump administration praised the universitys acting president for meeting the moment with fortitude and conviction. The move came in stark contrast to the universitys handling of pro-Palestinian protests in the summer, when a pro-Gaza encampment remained in place for more than six weeks. The university is currently trying to come to an agreement with President Donald Trump and his team to restore government funding, after the president withheld $400m in federal grants. The money was kept back amid concerns by the White House over Columbias handling of pro-Palestinian protests and anti-Israel sentiment on campus. Violations will generate consequences In March, Columbia was accused by the Trump administration of continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement regarding the sanctioning of students involved in the library incident, a Columbia University spokesperson said: Immediately following the disruption at Butler Library during reading period, which affected hundreds of students attempting to study, the university began an investigation into rules violations, banned participating individuals from affiliated institutions and non-affiliates from campus, and placed Columbia participants on interim suspension... Our institution must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community. And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of university policies and rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences. The speed with which our updated UJB system has offered an equitable resolution to the community and students involved is a testament to the hard work of this institution to improve its processes. 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. Columbia University disciplined dozens of students this week after its Judicial Board investigated pro-Palestinian demonstrations at the universitys largest library this year and at another campus location last year as the school tries to get millions in federal funding restored. While the University does not release individual disciplinary results of any student, the sanctions from Butler Library include probation, suspensions (ranging from one year to three years), degree revocations, and expulsions, the university said in a statement Tuesday. Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and Rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences. More than 70 students were sanctioned, with around 80% receiving suspensions, expulsions, or degree revocations, according to a source familiar with the disciplinary action. Most of the suspensions were for at least two years, the source added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement shared with CNN on Wednesday, the Trump administration applauded the universitys decision to discipline those who participated in the demonstrations. Holding these students accountable was a demand of President Trump and his entire administration, and this action is encouraging and a step in the right direction, White House spokesperson Harrison Fields said. Columbia has become a focal point in the Trump administrations push for campuses to crack down on antisemitism, as elite schools like Columbia and Harvard face pressure to act or risk losing federal funding. Columbia has taken a less confrontational approach than Harvard as it seeks to regain access to millions in federal funding the administration stripped earlier this year. The effort is part of a broad push by the Trump administration for policy changes at universities including diversity, equity and inclusion and other initiatives that President Donald Trump sees as a winning political issue. But it also raises major questions about academic freedom and the role of the federal government on college campuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, CNN reported that Columbia was on the verge of striking an agreement with the Trump administration to restore federal funding to the school following months of negotiations, according to two sources familiar with the deal. White House officials met with Columbia representatives last week, a source familiar with the meeting told CNN, as the Trump administration nears a deal that would require the university pay a settlement and implement changes to restore federal funding. The source said a deal was close, but declined to offer more details. In its statement Tuesday, Columbia said it must focus on delivering on its academic mission for our community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And to create a thriving academic community, there must be respect for each other and the institutions fundamental work, policies, and rules, the statement continued. The speed with which our updated UJB system has offered an equitable resolution to the community and students involved is a testament to the hard work of this institution to improve its processes. The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) Executive Director Afaf Nasher called the move to suspend students grotesquely oppressive. The students sat in unity to urge ending complicity in an active genocide, Nasher said in a statement. Columbia, seemingly bowing to political pressure from the Trump administration, has done more than undermine free speech and higher education. The University has sold its morality, academic integrity, and commitment to students. CNNs Alayna Treene and Betsy Klein contributed to this report. Correction: An earlier version of this story overstated the number of students sanctioned. More than 70 students were sanctioned. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Columbia University in the United States has imposed severe punishments, including expulsion, suspension from courses and revocation of academic degrees, on dozens of students who participated in protests against Israels war on Gaza. The student activist group Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD), which has called for the school to cut all financial ties with Israel, said in a statement that nearly 80 students have now been either expelled or suspended for up to three years over their involvement in antiwar protests. On Tuesday, Columbia said in a statement that its latest punishment of students relates to disruption of Butler Library in May 2025 and the encampment during Alumni Weekend in spring 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Disruptions to academic activities are in violation of University policies and rules, and such violations will necessarily generate consequences, the university wrote. The CUAD group said the universitys sanctions on students hugely exceed precedent for teach-ins or non-Palestine-related building occupations. We will not be deterred. We are committed to the struggle for Palestinian liberation, the group added. The pro-Palestinian student encampments at Columbia University in 2024 helped ignite a global movement against Israels unrelenting war on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The protest sites were eventually broken up when Columbia University allowed hundreds of New York City police officers on campus, leading to dozens of arrests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the universitys harsh crackdowns, student protesters occupied the Butler Library during final exams in May this year, demanding divestment from companies linked to the Israeli military and expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Columbia Universitys Judicial Board confirmed it issued expulsions, suspensions and degree revocations after what it called a disruption during reading period. It did not say how many students were expelled but said that this was the final set of findings from that period. The Ivy League university is in negotiations with US President Donald Trumps administration to restore some $400m in federal funding. The Trump administration cut funds to the New York City-based institution over what it claimed were failures to meaningfully protect Jewish students against severe and pervasive harassment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbias acting president, Claire Shipman, a former trustee, was booed by students during a May graduation ceremony for her role in cracking down on pro-Palestinian protests. Fellow Ivy League institution Harvard University, which has also been targeted with billions in funding cuts by the government, has pushed back against pressure to change its policies by taking the Trump administration to court. The latest disciplinary measures announced by Columbia against students came on Tuesday as Israels siege on the Gaza Strip continued to cause widespread starvation, with at least 15 people, including a six-week-old baby, dying from hunger and malnutrition within a 24-hour period, according to health officials. Mahmoud Khalil, the Columbia University protest leader targeted for deportation by the Trump administration, met with lawmakers in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, more than a month after he was released from immigration custody in Louisiana, where he was being held amid a pledge by the US president to deport pro-Palestinian activists. COLUMBUS, Kan. A Southeast Kansas fire department welcomes a new apparatus to its fleet. The Columbus Fire Department officially welcomed home its new rescue truck this week. It comes from Texas and costs $135,000. City leaders approved the purchase last month, which means the new truck has been getting ready, including new decals, over the past several weeks. One side of the truck includes a medical compartment, drivers gear, water for hotter days, air packs and oxygen tanks and clean up supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other side has a section for tools and built-in shelves for heavy duty equipment. The new truck means firefighters can now assist in structure fires, car wrecks, burns and complaints, all while putting less wear and tear on their larger vehicles. We only have one guy on duty every day for 24 hours. So, with us having to run the multitude of different calls that we can. What this did for us, it was able to get the driver initially into a singular truck to run medical calls, odor investigations, maybe a little bit of a grassfire, and also our car wrecks, said Lt. Korey Lucian, Columbus Fire Department Lieutenant Paramedic. Lucian says the truck also has a 300-gallon water tank with a pump on the back something theyve never had in the past. He also adds, they will also be able to assist other agencies in town, like supporting the ambulance service with an injury 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 KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) A retired Army veteran who is running for mayor of Columbus has been arrested twice since 2018, WRBL has learned. Steven Kelly filed his intent to run for mayor with the Muscogee County Office of Elections and Registrations on Monday. By Tuesday evening, WRBL found Kelly was arrested for DUI in 2018 and then again in early June for a misdemeanor simple battery family violence charge. Kelly confirmed both arrests with WRBL. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Third candidate jumps into Columbus mayors race Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do not run from my past or the challenges that I have faced or will face, Kelly said in a statement. I knew there were issues that would be made public and I still remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the values that have guided me throughout my life: service, resilience, and a dedication to doing better for my family, myself, and for the people of Columbus. The June simple battery came after a 9-1-1 call to Kellys residence. He says he has a court date scheduled for next month. The February 2018 DUI case is still pending, Kelly told WRBL. Like many in our community, Ive faced personal challenges that Im not proud of, but I believe its how we confront those challenges that truly defines us, he said. I take full responsibility for my actions and my past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelly spent 20 years in the U.S. Army, retiring two years ago. He says he will remain in the mayoral race. Director of Elections and Registrations Nancy Boren says neither of the charges Kelly faces would disqualify him from seeking the mayors office. Kelly is one of three people who have declared an intention to run for Mayor. The other two or former City Manager Isaiah Hugley and Mark LaJoye, who has run unsuccessfully four times for sheriff. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Ahmed Aboulenein and Maggie Fick WASHINGTON (Reuters) -AstraZeneca plans to spend $50 billion to expand manufacturing and research capabilities in the U.S. by 2030, it said on Monday, the latest big investment by a pharmaceutical company reacting to President Donald Trump's tariff policy. The investment will fund a new drug manufacturing facility in Virginia and expand research and development (R&D) and cell therapy manufacturing in Maryland, Massachusetts, California, Indiana and Texas, it said in a statement. It will also upgrade the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker's U.S. clinical trial supply network and support ongoing investment in novel medicines. On Monday, AstraZeneca said the expansion supports its ambition to reach $80 billion in annual revenue by 2030, with half coming from the U.S. The U.S. accounted for more than 40% of AstraZeneca's annual revenue in 2024, and the company had been prioritising the market - the world's largest, worth $635 billion - before Trump's return to office. The move to scale up its U.S. footprint is the latest by a drugmaker as Trump threatens to impose import tariffs on the industry and seeks to boost domestic manufacturing. The sector has historically been spared from trade disputes. Trump has called on pharma companies to make more of the medicines they sell in the U.S. within the country, rather than importing active ingredients or finished medicines. He is also pushing for prices in the U.S. to fall to what other countries pay. CEO Pascal Soriot announced the plans in Washington, saying he believes that drug prices need to rise elsewhere and "equalize" with other countries effectively contributing more to research and development costs. "The United States cannot build or carry the cost of R&D for the entire world," he said. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's department is leading a probe into pharmaceutical imports that could pave the way for new tariffs. "For decades Americans have been reliant on foreign supply of key pharmaceutical products. President Trump and our nations new tariff policies are focused on ending this structural weakness," said Lutnick in a statement issued by AstraZeneca. While Trump has repeatedly threatened tariffs on the sector, he signalled earlier this month that companies would be given a year to 18 months to "get their act together" before any levies take effect. The company said that the timing and location of the announcement was linked to the U.S. policy environment, though some of the spending would have occurred regardless so that the infrastructure for future medicines was in place. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The City of Columbus filed a lawsuit against a North Linden bar it says has a history of violence after a recent double shooting. The lawsuit was filed against First Stop Bar and Grill at 1427 Oakland Park Ave. The lawsuit says the bar also has a history of liquor law violations. Bars and nightlife are essential to a vibrant city, but those businesses cannot operate at the expense of public safety, City Attorney Zach Klein said in a statement. The moment the Property Action Team had the evidence it needed to bring a case against these owners who dont seem to care about safety or the law, we filed with the court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three months later, still no updates in OSU investigation of hidden cameras in a dorm bathroom In total, the city said it has responded to 23 calls for service at the location since July 15, 2023, including four disturbances, one robbery, two fights, five persons with guns, two shots fired and two shootings. On July 9, officers saw a vehicle stop in front of the bar and fire multiple shots, according to the lawsuit. The vehicle drove away and was followed by officers until it crashed. The driver was arrested and charged with felonious assault. One person was shot in the stomach, and a second person was shot in both legs, the lawsuit states. A third person was inside at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2024, the Liquor Nuisance Abatement Group found several violations, including fire code violations, moldy bar gun nozzles, and a failure to locate and post a liquor permit, according to city officials. The fire code violations included a failure to post an occupant load, exit doors that were not able to be opened, combustible materials stored in boiler rooms, extension cords that were used instead of permanent wiring, and open junction boxes or open-wiring, according to the lawsuit. In August 2024, an undercover operation was conducted after reports of the bar serving alcohol to minors, according to the lawsuit. Agents reported there was no security guard to check IDs, and the underage undercover purchaser was able to buy a drink without being asked for ID. A citation was issued. Thanks to CPD and the work of the Liquor Abatement Group, we were able to provide a full picture of the conditions and ongoing threat to public safety so we can abate the nuisance and improve the quality of life in this area of Linden, Property Action Team Attorney Sophie R. Yano said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September 2022, the city objected to the owners receiving a liquor permit due to criminal activity on and near the property. The city withdrew the objection after an agreement was reached with the owners. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Colonel Maksym Kazban, the commander of Ukraine's "Liut" (Fury) Assault Brigade of the National Police, was killed in a car crash in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine's National Police reported on July 22. Kazban was a veteran officer who led a unique front-line formation made up of Ukraines elite police forces. The Liut Brigade, officially known as the United Assault Brigade of the National Police, was created in response to Russias full-scale invasion and has taken part in some of the wars fiercest battles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The head of Ukraine's National Police, Ivan Vyhivskyi, called Kazban's death an "irreparable loss" and described him as a man of honor and courage, "a true warrior and patriot of his country." President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed condolences over Kazban's passing in his evening address, saying Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko had reported the circumstances of the commander's death. "It's a painful loss. He was a strong warrior, devoted to Ukraine and its defense," Zelensky said. "He fought for Ukraine since 2014, serving in the Air Assault Forces and the Security Service's special forces. He took command of the Liut Brigade in 2024, which earned repeated thanks for its actions under his leadership." According to the Liut Brigade, Kazban began his military career with the 79th Air Assault Brigade, taking part in key battles during Russia's initial invasion of eastern Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kazban later joined the "A" Special Operations Center of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), where he participated in numerous combat missions against Russian proxy forces in eastern Ukraine in 2015. The brigade said Kazban played a leading role in a special operation near Chornobaivka in Kherson Oblast in 2022 that caused significant losses to Russian forces. Kazban became the first deputy commander of the Liut Brigade after the outbreak of the full-scale war in July 2023. He organized numerous assault missions and oversaw operations that led to the liberation of Klishchiivka in Donetsk Oblast. Kazban was appointed Liut commander in September 2024. Under his leadership, the brigade was among the first to fight Russian forces in the Toretsk sector in Donetsk Oblast, enduring some of the fiercest battles without surrendering "a meter of ground," according to the brigade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commander had received numerous awards for his service, including the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi (2nd and 3rd class), the Medal "For Military Service to Ukraine," the SBU Badge "For Bravery," and the Commander-in-Chief's "Steel Cross." He was also twice awarded honorary firearms. "Maksym Kazban was a model officer, a man of honor, an indomitable commander who led, took responsibility, and was always there for his men both on the battlefield and in life," the brigade said in a statement. "He earned respect, trust, and admiration. His loss is deeply felt across the entire Liut family." Read also: As Russia closes in on Pokrovsk, battle for key city enters its final act Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) Though he had no family by his side, U.S. veteran John Kenneth Andrews was not alone. Members of the Abilene community gathered at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery to honor him in a moving ceremony, ensuring his service was remembered with dignity and respect. An unaccompanied veteran is a U.S. military service member who passes away with no known family or next of kin to attend their funeral. In these moments, community members, veterans organizations, and officials step forward to ensure that no one who served is forgotten. John Kenneth Andrews served in the U.S. Air Force from June 5, 1957, to October 3, 1958, as an Airman Third Class (A/3C), where he worked as a Medical Administrative Assistant. After his time in the Air Force, Andrews joined the U.S. Army as a Private First Class (PFC) and served as a 710 Clerk. During his military career, he received several awards, including Sharpshooter distinctions for both the M-1 and M1A rifles, as well as a Good Conduct Medal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNACCOMPANIED BURIAL: Abilene community invited to honor Army Veteran John Andrews The Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, operated under the Texas General Land Office, provide resting places for veterans, allowing friends and family to honor those who have passed away without their company. Dr. John Kelley, the director of the Texas State Veterans Cemeteries organization, shared his thoughts on the experience of accompanying an unaccompanied veteran during their final resting ceremony, highlighting its significance. I think whats important is that there are things we know and things we dont know about PFC Andrews. We dont know the circumstances of his life that brought him here today unaccompanied, and there are a great variety of reasons behind that, but we dont care what those reasons are, said Dr. Kelley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Kelley also expressed appreciation for the people of Abilene who showed up to stand in solidarity with a fellow veteran. I stand with every veteran whos here today to say we never want a veteran to be buried alone, Dr. Kelley 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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Dance and Fitness Class Every Monday (All year long, except holidays) 9:00am 10:30am North Bend Senior Center 1470 Airport Lane Fun paced world music exercise class for women and men. New dancers are welcome. Free! Free Community Yoga Classes Every Monday 5:30pm 6:30pm Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Ave. Beginner friendly yoga class led by Mona Dunham. No experience is necessary. Increase your flexibility and strength, get centered, and enjoy a workout in a supportive environment. Wear comfortable workout clothes and bring a yoga mat if you have one. This Free event is open to everyone age 12 and up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preschool Storytime Every Tuesday 10:30am North Bend Library 1800 Sherman Ave Enjoy stories, activates, and a craft for children ages 2 5. Memory Cafe Coos 1st Wednesday each month North Bend Public Library Older adults living with memory loss & their care partners are invited to an informal social gathering. Bay Area Farmers and Artisans Market Every Wednesday until April 30 10:00am 2:00pm Black Market Gourmet Building 495 Central Ave., Coos Bay Our vendors feature produce, meat, eggs, baked goods, candy, coffee, jewelry and custom crafted gift items, unique clothing and Plate Food Truck. Yoga in the Museum Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every Wednesday 9:30am 10:30am Coos Art Museum 235 Anderson Ave $5. County Line Dancing Every Thursday 5:00pm 6:30pm Upstairs at the Eagles Lodge 568 S 2nd St., Coos Bay $5 per person. Teaching step-by-step for beginners & advanced dancers too! Baby Play Every Thursday 10:30am North Bend Library 1800 Sherman Ave Enjoy stories, music and play designed to encourage the early literacy skills of children under 2. Toddler Music and Movement Every Friday 10:30am North Bend Library 1800 Sherman Ave Enjoy music, moving and grooving for children ages 2-3. Friends of Coos County Animals (FOCCAS) Every Saturday 12:00pm 3:00pm Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pony Village Mall 1611 Virginia Ave., North Bend All of our adoptable cats and dogs live in foster homes. For more information, visit: https://friendsofcooscounty animals.org Peaceful Democratic Rally Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month 12:00pm 2:00pm Coos Bay Boardwalk 200 S Bayshore Dr. Do you have something you would like to express about the federal government? If so then come join us, meet a community of like minded people, hold your sign up for passing motorists, and cheer on democracy. Gospel Jubilee Concert and Open Mic 1st Sunday each month Shoreline Community Church 1251 Clark St. North Bend Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each Jubilee begins with a one hour concert followed by one hour of Open Mic. Everyone is invited to come &/or bring a song to share. There is a sign-up sheet upon arrival. There is no charge to attend. Complimentary refreshments will be available. Free will offering. Directions: from Hwy 101, take Newmark, turn right on Brussels, left on Lewis, then left to church. More information, call Tom 541-521-9596 (or) www.shorelinecc.us CHM First Tuesday Talk 1st Tuesday each month 6:00pm 7:00pm Coos History Museum 1210 N Front St. What Happened to Oregons Sea Otters? with Bob Bailey, Board President of the Elakha Alliance. Admission price of $7 for non-member adults, $3 for youth, $5 for zoom regardless of membership, or FREE for CHM members in person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Pre-registration is encouraged. Reservations can be made online at https://cooshistory.org/event-registration/, by phone at 541-756-6320 or register in person at the museums front desk. Walk-ins are welcome! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brownies and Board Games 1st Tuesday each month 4:00pm North Bend Library 1800 Sherman Ave. The North Bend Public Library is hosting a monthly get together for teens. Teens, ages 13 18, are invited to play their favorite games and snack on brownies. All games and refreshments will be provided, but teens are welcome to bring their favorite games to share. Coos Sand n Sea Quilters 1st Thursday each month until June 2025 6:00pm Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 1290 Thompson Rd., Coos Bay New members are welcome to attend. Dues are $20.00 a year. A program is presented each month on quilt related topics. https://coosbayquiltguild.com Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furry Friends Therapy Dogs, Inc Meeting 4th Thursday each month (Except 3rd Thursday in November & December) Cedar Room Coos Bay Library Are you interested in sharing your dog and making people smile? Meetings are open to any interested community members. 541-267-7427 Pacific Home Health and Hospice: Grief and Loss support group 1st Friday each month 12:00pm 2:00pm Kaffe 101 171 S Broadway, Coos Bay All are welcome. For questions, call 541-266-7005. Womens Empowerment Book Club 1st Saturday each month 11:00am 12:00pm Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Ave. Join our womens empowerment book club where we read and discuss books that celebrate the achievements and resilience of women from all walks of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Building Programs using Lego Building Blocks: Build it Saturdays 1st Saturday each month 12:00pm 1:30pm Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Ave. Ages 0 - 14. Children under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult. No preregistration required. For additional information about programs being offered by the Coos Bay Public Library please contact the library by calling (541) 269-1101 x 3606 or visit the Librarys website at www.coosbaylibrary.org Sketchbook Club 1st Saturday each month 11:00am 12:00pm Cam Studio 187 Central Ave, Coos Bay Free. Media Literacy Workshop 1st Saturday in April, May and June 1:00pm Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Bend Library 1800 Sherman Ave During each session, facilitator Dr. Liam Gleason will lead a conversation focusing on the tools to navigate todays complex media landscape and to act against misinformation and disinformation. The workshop is free to attend, and lunch will be provided. Registration is required as space is limited. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/3etdsawb. Building Programs using Lego Building Blocks: Build it Challenge 2nd Thursday each month 3:00pm 4:00pm Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Ave. Ages 0 - 14. Children under the age of 11 must be accompanied by an adult. No preregistration required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Use librarys brick collection to build. For additional information about programs being offered by the Coos Bay Public Library please contact the library by calling (541) 269-1101 x 3606 or visit the Librarys website at www.coosbaylibrary.org The Coos Bay and North Bend Parkinsons Support Group 2nd Thursday each month 1:00pm 2:30pm Coos Bay Public Library (Myrtlewood Room) 525 Anderson Avenue The support group is sponsored by Parkinsons Resources of Oregon (PRO). Local contact information: Aaron - 541.808.1336. Learn more about PROs services at www.parkinsonsresources.org Oregon Bay Area Beautification 2nd Saturday each month 9:45am Locations vary; visit www.4obab.org/ for details Whether youre someone who enjoys light duties or someone whos ready to dive into more demanding tasks, we have a project for you. The American Council of the Blind of Oregon, Southwest Chapter Meets September May Every 2nd Saturday The Venture Inn Restaurant 2265 Inland Point Dr., North Bend For help and information please call 541-707-2226. Free Admission to the Museum Every 2nd Sunday 11:00am 5:00pm Coos Art Museum 235 Anderson Ave ASL Practice Place 3rd Thursday each month 12:00pm Zoom: bit.ly/3m6j2WG Attendees will have the opportunity to sign in ASL as a group for one hour in a casual, informal environment. This is not a class, but we will provide ideas for conversational topics This program is free and open to anyone who wishes to sharpen their ASL conversational skills. Register for this event @ https://bit.ly/3m6j2WG Unlimited Book Club 3rd Thursday each month 6:00pm Zoom This meeting will be an opportunity for members to meet and discuss our current title, selected by book club members. Suggestions for future readings will come from members of Unlimited. Those interested are invited to attend the meeting, there is no obligation to stay. To receive Zoom link for meeting, register for free @ https://bit.ly/3R6E57M Arts and Crafts: Craft Takeout Every 3rd Saturday 12:00pm 6:00pm Coos Bay Public Library 525 Anderson Ave. Pick up a free monthly Craft Takeout kit each month. Limit one Craft Takeout kit per person. Kits are available for pickup in the library while supplies last. A limited number of kits are available and are first come, first serve. Spanglish: Spanish Conversational Program Every 3rd Saturday 10:30am 11:30am Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Ave. Program is for those who wish to practice their Spanish conversational skills and help other learners in a friendly setting. Attendees will have the opportunity to converse in Spanish as a group for one hour in a casual, informal environment. This is NOT a class, but we will provide ideas for conversational topics. Beginners are welcome. Lets talk! This program is FREE and open to anyone who wishes to sharpen their Spanish conversational skills. Community Cooking with the Co-Op Every 4th Thursday 5:30pm Zoom: bit.ly/3powyqG Coos Bay Public Library, in partnership with Coos Head Food Co-op, will co-host Community Cooking With The Co-Op. Coos Bay Library has teamed up with Coos Head Food Co-op to provide safe, easy, and healthy recipes to create at home. Join us virtually for this fun community event! This event is FREE and open to everyone. Cam Studio Presents: Life Drawing Group Every 4th Sunday 2:00pm 4:00pm 187 Central Ave, Coos Bay $120 for 6 sessions. 21 and up. Register online at coosart.org Sawdust Theatre Recipe for Disaster Camillas Culinary Quandry June 6 August 30 Friday performances: 7:00pm Sunday matinees: 2:00pm 120 N. Adams St Recipe for Disaster or Camillas Culinary Quandary, a melodrama based on the lives of (mostly) real characters from Coquilles history, will grace the Sawdust Theatre stage this summer for its 57th season. Tickets are $10 and are available at River Cities Realty, Inc., on the theatres website SawdustTheatre.com or at the theatre, before each performance, if seats remain unsold. More information is available by calling 541-396-4563. Summer Reading Kick-Off Tuesday, June 17 August 16 10:00am 12:00pm City of Coos Bay Library 525 Anderson Avenue The Coos Bay Public Library is hosting a party to kick-off summer with games, free books, and cake. The free event is geared towards kids and families 18 and under; participants under the age of 18 will receive a free book as part of the event. Attendees will have a chance to pick up the Coos Bay Public Librarys Summer Reading Challenge. As part of the challenge, participants can earn entry tickets for a grand prize drawing, as well as a one-of-a kind commemorative t-shirt. The challenge is open for all ages. For more information, visit coosbaylibrary.org or call (541) 269-1101 x3606. Cards at Noon Starting Friday, June 20 Every Friday through August 1 12:00pm (No program on July 4th.) North Bend Public Library Looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your lunch hour? The North Bend Public Library invites community members to Cards at Noon, a weekly drop-in gaming social hour. Participants can enjoy a variety of board games and card games, using the librarys collection or bringing their favorite from home. Whether youre a seasoned strategist or just in it for the fun, all skill levels are welcome. Lunch-break gamers are encouraged to drop in and play a quick round or can bring their lunch and stay for the full hour. For more information, contact the North Bend Public Library at nbservices@northbendlibrary.org. Solve the Mystery Starting Friday, June 20 through August 1 Every Friday 6:00pm North Bend Public Library If you love a good whodunit, the North Bend Public Library has your Friday nights covered. Join us for Friday Night Mysteriesa weekly mystery-solving event held as part of the Summer Reading Program. (No program on July 4th.) Each week, participants will work together to unravel a new mysteryfrom suspicious characters in Death at a Dive Bar to uncovering the truth behind the Murder of an Influencer. Players will use clues, solve puzzles, and piece together evidence to crack the case! Bring your inner detective and get ready for a twisty evening of crime-solving excitement. For more information, contact the North Bend Public Library at nbservices@northbendlibrary.org. Picnic in the Park June 23 August 15 Monday Friday (Closed July 4) North Bend (Art Cart on Fridays!) Ferry St. Park 11:00am 11:10am Simpson Park 11:15am 11:25am Airport Heights Park 11:35am 11:45am Airport Housing Complex 11:50am 12:00pm Oak St. Park 12:05pm 12:20pm ---------------------------------- Lakeside/Hauser/ North Bend Lakeside Library 11:00am 11:10am Dunes Rance Mobile Park 11:15am 11:25am Hauser Community Church 11:40am 11:50am Boynton Park 12:05pm 12:20pm North Bend Middle School 11:30am 12:00pm ---------------------------------- Adult lunches are $5.00. Children are free! No change carried by drivers. We are back to grab and go meals! Duplicate meals are not allowed. Free breakfast for the following weekday morning will be handed out with each lunch! For more information call: Noth Bend School District #13 541-751-6779 or 541-756-2521. Legends of the Sea July 2 23 5:30pm 6:30pm Coos History Museum 1210 N Front St The Coos History Museum invites you to Legends of the Sea, an immersive four-week summer lecture series that dives into the eerie, true, and legendary tales that have haunted seafarers for centuriesespecially along Oregons treacherous coast. From ghost ships adrift with no crew to lost expeditions, mutinies, wrecks and more, Legends of the Sea explores classic maritime legends, laws, and histories. Join CHM Educator Sire Pro on Wednesday nights at the Coos History Museum. The price includes all four immersive, one-hour classes and is $50 for CHM members and $60 for non-members. Pre-registration is required, however walk-ins will be admitted if capacity allows. Pre-register in person at 1210 N. Front St. online at cooshistory.org , or over the phone at 541-756-6320. Teen Jeopardy Tuesday, July 22 4:00pm 5:00pm North Bend Public Library Teens are invited to show off their smarts and battle it out in a fun-filled game of Jeopardy-style trivia featuring categories like music, movies, books, and pop culture. Whether they are a Swiftie, a Marvel maniac, or just really good at random facts, this is their moment to shine. All snacks will be provided. No registration required. For more information, contact nbservices@northbendlibrary.org or call (541) 756-0400. Red Yarn Tuesday, July 22 6:00pm Mingus Park Amphitheatre 725 N. 5th Street, Coos Bay, OR (Rain location: Myrtlewood Room at Coos Bay Public Library) Wednesday, July 23 10:30am Sprague Theatre 1202 11th Street SW, Bandon Wednesday, July 23 2:00pm Lakeside Public Library 915 N. Lake Road, Lakeside Get ready for a hootenanny with the extraordinary Red Yarn! This free family show combines folksongs and puppetry in high-energy performances designed for all ages. Red Yarn reinvigorates American folklore through music, storytelling, and playful videos. Part of the Summer Reading initiative, performances are supported by the Coos County Library Service District. More info: cooslibraries.org/libraries Storytime with the North Bend Fire Department Wednesday, July 23 2:00pm North Bend Public Library Join us for a special visit from our local heroes. Kids will enjoy a fun, fire-safety-themed storytime and get an up-close look at a real firetruck! Its a perfect mix of learning and excitementdont miss it! Riverfront Rhythms Thursday, July 24 6:00pm 7:30pm Thursday, August 7 6:00pm 7:30pm Umpqua Discovery Center 409 Riverfront Way Enjoy free outdoor concerts on the waterfront featuring Sly & Company, Timberwolf, and Border Patrol Rockin Country. Food vendor Salty Dog will be on site. Please, no pets, smoking, or alcohol on the concert grounds. Contact: 541-271-4816 Upcoming Wine Tastings and Artist Shows July 25, August 1, 8, 22, 29 4:00pm 7:00pm Mindpower Gallery 417 Fir Ave (Hwy 38), Reedsport, OR 97467 Come enjoy a taste or glass of wine and take home a bottle. Artist receptions on July 18 (Marian Flood) and August 22 (Bob Keefer). Wine tastings also available by appointment. Contact: 541-271-2485 mindpowergallery.com Sole Mates Community Walk Saturday, July 26 10:00am. Coos Bay Visitor Center 50 Central Ave Coos Bay Public Library and local walking group, Sole Mates, will co-host Sole Mates Community Walk every fourth Saturday. The first walk will be held at the Coos Bay Boardwalk (Meet & park at Coos Bay Visitor Center, 50 Central Ave) on Saturday, July 26 at 10:00am. Every month, we will meet at the next trail in the Walking Guide. Walks are FREE to join and open to everyone! Get physical copies of the guide at the library or download it @ https://www.coosbaylibrary.org/sole-mates Artist Reception: Jane Darlington & Debra Mesch Saturday, July 26 2:00pm 4:00pm The Artist Loft Gallery Wine and hors doeuvres will be served as we celebrate the work of fluid acrylic artist Jane Darlington and innovative new artist Debra Mesch. Contact Patty Becker at 541-290-1562 or pabecker1@hotmail.com Improv series at Coos Bay Public Library Saturdays: July 26, August 9, 23, September 13, 27 October 11, 25 10:30am 12:00pm Coos Bay Public Library 525 Anderson Avenue The Coos Bay Public Library is offering an 8-week improv series followed by a performance showcase! Learn valuable skills while having fun. Improv builds self-confidence, listening skills, communication, and more. This free class is open to all adults ages 18 and up. Artist Reception at Black Market Gourmet Sunday, July 27 2:00pm 4:00pm Black Market Gourmet 495 Central Ave, Coos Bay Reception for Susan Lehman, Bandon collage artist. Will Hubel of Left Coast Jazz will play music, and the artist talk with Susan Lehman is at 3. All are invited. Beaded Suncatchers Class with Pam Calendrino Tuesday, July 29 3:30pm 5:30pm The Artist Loft Gallery Make your own beaded suncatcher in this hands-on class for ages 10 and up. $35, all materials included. Contact Patty Becker at 541-290-1562 or pabecker1@hotmail.com Teen Perler Party Tuesday, July 29 4:00pm 5:00pm North Bend Public Library Teens are invited to the library for an afternoon of Perler Bead creativity! Design your own characters, symbols, fandom icons, or wild creationsif you can imagine it, you can bead it. Whether youre into retro video games, anime, animals, or just love making cool stuff with your hands, this is your chance to create something totally you. For more information, contact nbservices@northbendlibrary.org or call (541) 756-0400. Power Play for the Planet Thursday, July 31 2:00pm North Bend Public Library The Museum of Natural and Cultural History is coming to the North Bend Public Library. Join us to play games, solve puzzles, and tackle wacky challenges. Children of all ages and their families will enjoy exploring our planet, designing solutions for the environment, and imagining a brighter future. This program is free to attend and presented by the Museum of Natural and Cultural History, University of Oregon. For more information, please visit https://natural-history.uoregon.edu/library-and-community-outreach. Gamers, Data Nerds, and Curious MindsScience Needs You! Thursday, July 31 6:00pm 7:00pm North Bend Public Library The North Bend Public Library invites you to a fascinating lecture presented by Dr. Aaron Coyner on the gamification of science. In this talk, Dr. Coyner explores the exciting world of citizen sciencewhere anyone with a smartphone, notebook, or game controller can help solve real-world scientific problems. From tracking rainfall to testing video games designed to slow dementia, everyday people are stepping into the world of science in fun and meaningful ways. Come learn how game-like elements are being used to expand research and engage new communities. For more information, contact nbservices@northbendlibrary.org or call (541) 756-0400. Art and Music Soiree Thursday, July 31 Saturday, August 2 Coos Art Museum 235 Anderson Ave, Coos Bay Savor an evening of exquisite beauty and refined taste as you immerse yourself in a captivating performance of jazz music. Indulge in delectable appetizers and a glass of wine while admiring the works of Earl Hamilton and other esteemed artists. Paranormal Cirque Friday, August 1 7:30pm Saturday, August 2 6:30pm & 9:30pm Sunday, August 3 5:30pm & 8:30pm Monday, August 4 7:30pm Rogue Valley Mall 1600 N Riverside Ave, Medford, OR 97501 Paranormal Cirque exposes you to a unique creation combining theatre, circus, and cabaret with a European flare for a mature audience. Expect jaw-dropping acts, mystifying magic, and an adult-only, animal-free experience under the Black and Red Big Top. Tickets start at $20. Under 18 requires an accompanying parent or guardian. Special $5 off promotion available; call 941-704-8572 for a promo code. Tickets: paranormalcirque.com/tickets or (941) 704-8572. Contact: leahhryniewicki@cirqueitalia.com. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Its been nearly 2 months since a devastating fire destroyed the majority of a historic church and pillar of the community in Maria Stein. The community is looking to honor first responders this Sunday. The 135-year-old St. John the Baptist Church caught on fire on Thursday, May 29. It burned for hours, from approximately 2:30 p.m. to very late in the evening. Nearly 20 different fire departments relentlessly fought to put out the massive flames. Then, the next morning, on Friday, at approximately 7:50 a.m., 2 NEWS crews on scene saw black smoke coming from the top of the church. (We were preparing for a look-live of the damage.) We immediately called the Chickasaw Volunteer Fire Department to report it. They arrived in minutes, around 8 a.m. and sent up a drone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A big loss: Church steeple, roof collapse in massive Maria Stein fire The steeple was too tall to be accessed by fire ladders. It was engulfed in more flames and fell. Salvage and clean-up efforts have been underway since the fire. A special Firemen and First Responders Thank You service will be held this Sunday, July 27, on St. Johns south parking lot from 1:30 p.m. through 3:30 p.m. St. Johns is located at 8533 State Route 119. This gathering will include a prayer service and social gathering to honor the firefighters and first responders who courageously responded to the recent fire at St. John the Baptist Church on May 29, and who continue to support the parish and community throughout the recovery process, wrote the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cleanup continues but future uncertain after Maria Stein church fire Father Ken Schnipke C.PP.S., the pastor of Christ our Light Family of Parishes (which includes St. John the Baptist Parish), will speak at the service. The after-service gathering will be held at the Knights of St. John Hall, 8608 St. Rt. 119. For updates from the church at this difficult time, click here. Hershall Creachbaum Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) On Monday, Community Hospitals Grand Valley Oncology and Grand Valley ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeons will offer free oral cancer screenings from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Grand Valley ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeons building, located on 2373 G Road, Suite 240. Oral cancer screenings are an effective method to find cancer at its early, highly curable stages, and it is recommended that they be conducted every year. The best outcomes start with early detection, said Kathryn Glover, MD, medical oncologist at Community Hospitals Grand Valley Oncology. Many head and neck cancers can be treated successfully when found early. A screening is quick, simple and could save your life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Community Hospital in a press release, approximately 70% of oropharyngeal cancers are caused by HPV, or human papillomavirus. Additionally, head and neck cancers can be the result of tobacco and alcohol use, stated the press release. To reduce the risk of head and neck cancers, it is recommended to limit tobacco products, limit alcohol consumption and talk about HPV vaccination with a health care provider. Early indicators of oral cancers include: Difficulty breathing, swallowing, speaking or chewing Pain in the mouth or a sore throat that does not go away Swelling or unusual bleeding A sore that does not heal. Earaches Hoarseness Swollen lymph nodes Oral cancer screening plays a vital role in catching head and neck cancers early when treatment is most effective and cure rates are highest, said Andrew Park, physician assistant at Community Hospitals Grand Valley ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeons. Many of these cancers, especially those caused by HPV, are preventable and highly treatable when detected in their early stages. By raising awareness and offering screenings to our community, we hope to promote proactive care and potentially lifesaving outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To schedule an appointment for a free oral cancer screening or to learn more information, community members can call Grand Valley ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeons at 970-644-3800. The department will also welcome walk-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 WesternSlopeNow.com. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Community members are rallying after a string of shootings in West Dayton neighborhoods. The summer trend of gun violence is leading several community members to take a stand and address the issue, especially among Dayton youth. I need people to care that our kids are dying, said Rickia Woods, community activist. As of Friday, 18 people have died from homicide with a firearm, according to Dayton Police Department statistics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firearm homicides peak in 2025 and 2022 for Dayton Just yesterday, a man was rushed to the hospital after being shot near S. Paul Laurence Dunbar Street. In that incident, a 911 caller reported juveniles were involved, shooting the man just 100 feet away from a Montgomery County Public Health mobile unit. Last week, 55-year-old Shawn Irvin was fatally shot in the area of Emerson and W. Fairview avenues. Police are still investigating that incident. The constant gun violence, especially among local youth, is leading several activists to rally and demand for change. I want us to get out of the conditioning that this is normal for our community, and start seeing it as a problem and start addressing it as a crisis, said Woods. The youth need to know that people care. I think its important for us to get out into the community, interact with the youth, do something and do things for the youth, because they are the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far this year, 46 minors have been arrested in possession of firearms. Three juveniles have become victims to fatal shootings and 25 have been victims of aggravated robberies. Its devastating, especially for our community, when you realize that homicide is the leading cause of death for black males in the United States, ages 14 to 55, said Woods. While a lot of crime statistics involving juveniles are down compared to 2024, the numbers have been steadily increasing since 2020. Educators are also speaking up on the issue, saying gun violence effects everyone within the community. I personally lost three students to gun violence. My third was this year. Its not easy for educators, either, said Dajza Demmings, Dayton educator and DPS school board candidate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demmings believes the answer lies in everyone working together. I feel like this problem cant be fixed without community. The police needs to be involved. The elected officials need to be involved. Most importantly, the community needs to be involved, said Demmings. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. STERLING, Va. (DC News Now) Theres a new park in Northern Virginia to honor a volunteer firefighter killed during a home explosion last year. On Monday, a jury in Loudon County convicted a propane service manager of involuntary manslaughter. The blast leveled the home. But now the community has turned the place of tragedy into a site of healing. Man found guilty in Sterling home explosion that killed firefighter, injured others Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement February 16, 2024, was a tragic day on Silver Ridge Drive. Sterling volunteer firefighter Trevor Brown lost his life after a home exploded. He was a really good guy. He was a good firefighter. And he was a good father, a good family man. And hes really just a good member of the community, said David Short, past chief of the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company. Short said Brown was more than a firefighter. He was a friend. Short said Mondays guilty verdict of a propane service manager doesnt erase the profound loss, but its a step. We were relieved to get a verdict. And it was really important to the healing process, Short said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Sterling House Explosion: Firefighter killed, others seriously hurt To keep his memory alive, the community has come together to turn the tragic site where the house explosion happened into the Firefighter Brown Memorial Park. Its opening on his birthday this Saturday, July 26. Its a space that has beautiful flowers and benches to sit. The biggest focal point is a boulder. Thats where Trevor was removed from the property, and thats where he lost his life. And so that, to me, is the most important part of the park, said Kris Hjort. It signifies also his strength and his commitment to the community and giving back and being a first responder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hjort owns K&H Landscape and Grounds Maintenance, which designed and installed the park. Hjort is also part of the committee that made the park happen. I live about five miles away, so I felt the blast that night. We were in our family room, and my wife and I heard it, and we knew something bad had happened, Hjort said. People from near and far feel the need to honor the fallen. Having the community do this on their own without any prodding from the county or from the organization, that the community took on this initiative on their own, its just remarkable. And it really feels good to know you got that support for the community, Short said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The importance of having this park here is for the community to come and the neighbors to come and walk the park, sit on a bench, reflect, think about what was here and whats here now. And hopefully it brings better memories and what theyre used to, Hjort 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. AXA XL has appointed Ed Totten as its new head of construction casualty and integrated its primary and excess casualty lines. Totten has more than 20 years of experience in construction and casualty insurance, and since 2010 has developed the excess construction team at AXA. Previously, he was the senior vice-president and profit centre head for excess construction at the company, and his prior roles included leadership positions at Zurich and AIG. AXA XL Americas construction and energy chief underwriting officer Jon Tellekamp said: "Known for his strategic leadership and deep industry knowledge, Ed has built a reputation for fostering strong relationships with brokers and clients alike. His commitment to excellence and his forward-thinking approach makes him an ideal leader to drive AXA XL's casualty construction underwriting team into its next chapter of growth and success." The North America Construction insurance team offers primary and excess casualty, as well as professional and pollution liability, builders risk and subcontractor default insurance. The team also provides risk engineering services aimed at supporting safety and loss prevention for contractors, in addition to guidance on construction claims management. Tellekamp stated: " By aligning our primary and excess construction insurance under Ed's leadership, we can provide our clients with fewer coverage gaps and more efficient decision-making, ultimately strengthening their risk resilience." Last month, the company integrated its AXA Group and AXA XL Ceded Reinsurance teams and will led by Guy Van Hecke. "AXA XL appoints new construction casualty head " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. The World Health Organization (WHO) has sharply criticized the handling of health infrastructure in the Gaza conflict after one of its central warehouses was damaged in an attack. The attack on the WHO's main warehouse in central Gaza is part of "a pattern of systematic destruction of health facilities," the UN agency said on X on Wednesday, without assigning blame to a specific party. The WHO on Tuesday accused the Israeli military of attacking its facilities in the city of Deir al-Balah and detaining staff members earlier in the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli army said those detained in the operation were taken into custody on suspicion of "involvement in terrorism," and that most were released after being questioned on site. The Israeli military did not initially comment on the allegations of a "systematic destruction of health facilities." In the past, it has stated that it makes significant efforts to minimize damage to civilian buildings. The WHO released footage showing the severely damaged warehouse. The attack caused explosions and a fire inside the facility, the agency said. There were no reports of casualties. The Israeli military recently moved into the south-western part of Deir al-Balah, stating it was conducting operations against Hamas and other terrorist organizations in the area. ST. LOUIS As the sun beat down on one of the hottest days of the year, a group of about 20 dedicated volunteers from Confluence Academy took to the streets with a mission to reconnect with their students and families before school resumes in less than a month. We wanna make connections with our families and let them know we care we want to be able to say high school starting in a few weeks, Dr Leslie Mohammed, Confluence Academies director of student services and family involvement, said. The goal Tuesday was to strengthen the bonds between the school and its families, reminding them that they are supported in their child in their childs educational journey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A conflict of interest: STL Sheriffs new HR officer previously fired stirs controversy Many of the students at Confluence Academy were affected by the May 16 tornado. As the community begins to heal, the school is stepping up to provide support. We have roughly about 900 students throughout the Confluence Academy network that were impacted in some way by the by the tornado, and so we provided resources, Dr. Candace Carter-Oliver, CEO of Confluence Academies, said. We wanna be sure that we connect with them they know we care and also to provide information that school begins on August 18 and we want to see you 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 2. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer has issued a subpoena ordering Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of Jeffrey Epstein, to testify from prison in Florida. Comer set Maxwells deposition date for August 11 as the Trump administration faces mounting criticism over the Epstein files. Maxwell is set to be interviewed at the Federal Correctional Institution Tallahassee, where she is currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in helping Epstein recruit, groom, and abuse young girls. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also announced Tuesday he has contacted Maxwells attorneys to set up a meeting with her. Comer said the Justice Department is cooperating and will help facilitate the deposition at the prison. Some have called for Maxwell to testify to shed light on if any other people were involved with Epsteins actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The subpoena comes after Speaker of the House Mike Johnson questioned whether Maxwells testimony will be truthful. If they see fit to bring in Ghislaine Maxwell for testimony, thats fine, Johnson told reporters Wednesday. I will note the obvious concern, the caveat that Chairman Comer and I and everyone has, that, can she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Maxwell on Wednesday and plans a prison interview next month. (US District Court for the Southe) I mean, this is a person whos been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts and acts against innocent young people, he added. I mean, can we trust what shes going to say, even if she raises her hand and says that shell testify under oath? Maxwells attorney, David Markus, told The Independent he understands the general concern that Congress should vet witnesses, but says Johnsons worries are unfounded in this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Ms. Maxwell agrees to testify before Congress and not take the 5thand that remains a big ifshe would testify truthfully, as she always has said she would and as she will with Mr. Blanche, Markus wrote. The truth should not be feared or preemptively dismissed. No previous prosecutor from the Southern District of New York or elsewhere has had the courage to meet with Ms. Maxwell and ask her these important questions. As for the Congressional subpoena, Ms. Maxwell is taking this one step at a time, he added. She looks forward to her meeting with the Department of Justice, and that discussion will help inform how she proceeds. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson told reporters Wednesday he's skeptical about whether Maxwell will be truthful if she testifies before Congress (Getty Images) Johnson said the House will go on its annual summer recess beginning Wednesday. The break comes as Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna a Republican and Democrat, respectively lead a charge to force a vote that would compel the Justice Department to release more information on Epstein. Earlier this month, the Justice Department and FBI released a memo claiming that Epstein did not have a client list, even though Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested it was on her desk months prior. The memo also confirmed the financier died by suicide while in jail in August 2019, after years of conspiracy theories surrounding his death. The memo stated there would be no further disclosure related to the Epstein investigation. Trump has defended Bondi and his administration amid backlash from both sides of the aisle. He also directed Bondi to begin the process of unsealing grand jury testimony related to the Epstein investigation. The Justice Department has since requested that the testimony be unsealed. Judges in Florida and New York rejected the requests Wednesday. Members of a congressional agriculture committee discussed the "implications" of a California law dictating the size of livestock confinement pens, among other things. (Photo by USDA) The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture met Wednesday for a hearing and a renewed push to neutralize a California law that stipulates the living conditions of certain livestock The law, referred to as Proposition 12, has been the subject of several lawsuits and proposed legislation as opponents say the law creates a patchwork of uncertainty in the industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late June, the U.S. Supreme Court dismissed a case against Proposition 12. Witnesses at the House hearing said the dismissal does not equate to a ruling from the court, but instead shows the need for congressional action on the issue. Proposition 12 was a state referendum approved in 2018 that took effect in 2024. The law stipulates meat sold in the state must comply with state animal confinement regulations, even if the animals were raised outside of California. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This means if an Iowa producer, for example, wanted to sell uncooked pork cuts into the California market, their pork must have been raised in a setting where sows had at least 24 square feet of room. Eggs would have to come from chickens that were raised with at least 1 square foot of space to comply with the California law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protein sold to states other than California do not need to comply, but industry leaders say the California pork market is too large to ignore. Animal rights organizations in support of the law say the spacing stipulations would give the animals enough space to turn around freely and provide greater welfare to the animals. Lawmakers have attempted to block the law several times. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act in 2023 attempted to stop states from enforcing preharvest conditions on agricultural products for sale in interstate commerce settings. Opponents of the bill argued it would not only suppress Prop 12, but also interfere with many state-based agricultural laws. Ag committee Chairman Glenn G.T. Thompson, said lawmakers should look instead to the language from the Houses Farm Bill proposal from last year, which did not pass. Thompson said this language was more specific and would allow rules like Prop12 to exist, but to only be enforceable on proteins raised in that state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In order to protect the right of American farmers and ranchers to raise their animals how they see fit, we must provide a fix for Proposition 12, Thompson said in his opening comments. At the Wednesday hearing, pork producers said the bigger confinements required by the law dont always work in favor of the sows and the cost to comply with Californias law is high for producers and consumers. Pat Hord, an Ohio pork producer and vice president of the National Pork Producers Council, has outfitted parts of his operation to be compliant with Prop 12. He said the law and the potential for the 49 other states to enact their own standards threatens his farm with an unmitigated regulatory patchwork. Hord supported congressional action that would stop Proposition 12 and prevent future states from following suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An economist with NPPC who also testified Wednesday said it costs farmers $3,500 to $4,500 per sow to build compliant pens. Hord said the law is not only costly to comply with, but is inherently less efficient. All farms have or will continue to experience productivity losses under Prop 12, Hord said to the committee. You simply cannot house the same number of sows in the same size barn. Hord said the burden to comply would be even greater on small and medium sized farmers who have less capital to spend on costly upgrades. This in turn, he said, would lead to more consolidation in the pork market. Animal welfare The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or ASPCA, said in a press release that laws like Proposition 12 challenge the cruel status quo of industrial agriculture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contrary to the narrative being pushed by industrial agriculture interests at todays hearing which notably excluded the voices of independent farmers there are thousands of farmers across the country who support and depend on commonsense bans against the cruel confinement of farm animals, ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker said in the release. We encourage Congress to listen to these farmers and protect state laws like Proposition 12 which create vital market opportunities for higher-welfare farming that align with the values of the American public. ASPCA said the Senates recently introduced Food Security and Farm Protection Act was a repackaging of the EATS act and must be kept out of the upcoming Farm Bill. The animal rights group said bills like EATS are an unprecedented federal assault on states rights to pass laws on agricultural practices and sales. Matt Schuiteman, an Iowa pork producer and board member with Iowa Farm Bureau, said the best animal welfare comes when farmers are able to adjust their operations to their individual conditions and to their animals. This is something he said Proposition 12 would make more difficult to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most important thing Ive learned from a lifetime of raising pigs is that its critical for producers to have full control over the environment in which their pigs are raised, Schuiteman said. He also said when breeding pigs are not confined, the social hierarchy within a herd kicks in and pigs down the pecking order are pushed away from food or water. This is not only bad for the sow, but also means shell have smaller litters, which hurts the farmers outputs. U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, said the poor outcomes for pigs under the law show California is clueless about hog farming. This all happens because California has a liberal, progressive agenda that has no idea what farming is all about, Feenstra said. Lets be clear, Prop 12 is a direct threat to our viability of family farms, the health and welfare of animals and the affordability of pork production in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, a Democrat from Massachusetts, said the whole hearing was a misrepresentation of reality and the panel of witnesses was not a balanced panel. McGovern said there are thousands of farmers who support Proposition 12 and many small-operation producers who have benefited from the new market opportunities for humanely raised meat under the law. If you kill Prop 12, you are putting independent family farms at risk, McGovern said. It will be get big or get out all over again. Recent data from U.S. Department of Agriculture shows about 27% of U.S. hog farms already compliant with Prop 12, or are in the process of becoming compliant with the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data, according to an analysis from Politico, said pork prices in California are nearly 20% higher than they were this time last year. Lilly Rocha, executive director of the Latino Restaurant Association, said these higher prices impact small family businesses in the state, make it more difficult for consumers to buy pork or pork products, which distances Latino customers from their cultural heritage. GOP governors support rollback of Prop 12 Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, along with seven GOP governors, submitted a letter to members of Congress Wednesday, urging them to support the Save Our Bacon act, introduced earlier in the day by U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson of Iowa. Hinson, in a social media post on X, said the bill would push back on Californias radical Prop 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter from state governors called the California regulations arbitrary and out of touch, especially as it drives up production prices across the country and consumer pork prices in the state. When one state decides to regulate another, federal legislation is appropriate and necessary, the letter said. We ask that Congress make clear that each state may regulate livestock production within its own borders, but not the production of livestock in other states. In addition to Reynolds, the letter was signed by governors from Mississippi, Indiana, Nebraska, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma and Virginia. The Trump administration has also sued the State of California and its officials for the impact the law has had on egg prices in the state. This lawsuit came shortly after the Supreme Courts dismissal. In closing, Thompson said the courts have shown this is a responsibility Congress has to fix. This committee will consider a measured correction that preserves states rights to control their internal agriculture practices, Thompson said. Well protect interstate commerce and preserve states animal health regulations and laws. This article has been updated to correct the spelling of Rep. Thompsons name. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Lawmakers from both parties have so far rejected steep cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) proposed by the Trump administration and reiterated their support for a fully staffed National Weather Service (NWS) during recent committee meetings, which included key appropriations markup sessions. While the House and Senate spending bills for fiscal year 2026 are still in the early stages of the legislative process, initial drafts indicate bipartisan pushback against the significant cuts outlined in the administration's budget proposal, released earlier this year. For fiscal year 2026, which begins Oct. 1, the Trump administration proposed cutting NOAA's budget by roughly 25%, including the elimination of its research division, the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) and making major reductions to other key offices such as the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), the world's largest provider of weather and climate data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: After Texas flood, elected leaders say cuts to FEMA, NOAA could affect weather response The budget proposal stated, "The FY 2026 budget eliminates all funding for climate, weather, and ocean Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes. It also does not fund Regional Climate Data and Information, Climate Competitive Research, the National Sea Grant College Program, Sea Grant Aquaculture Research, or the National Oceanographic Partnership Program." The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies advanced a spending bill with bipartisan support last week that would fund NOAA at levels mostly in line with budgets of previous years. Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo/AFP via Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: A crew member looks at a laptop inside a NOAA WP-3D Orion Hurricane Hunter research plane during a media day at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Aircraft Operations Center in Lakeland, Fla., on May 6, 2025. The fiscal year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science appropriations bill provides roughly $5.8 billion to NOAA in 2026, a 6% decrease from the previous year. However, it restores a majority of funding for NOAA's Operations, Research and Facilities (ORF) account, which includes OAR. While specific spending details have not yet been released, this would likely spare many critical research labs and climate institutes from potential cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the July 15 markup session, Subcommittee Chairman Hal Rogers, R-Ky., expressed his support for the National Weather Service, emphasizing the recent toll of devastating flooding hitting the country. "Flooding has inflicted much pain on this nation over the last few months," he said. "From my district in Kentucky to Texas, now is the time to ensure the National Weather Service is equipped with the funding it needs to warn and protect our citizens." MORE: Senate considers Neil Jacobs, 'Sharpiegate' scientist, as NOAA administrator At the start of the markup session, Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., the subcommittee's ranking Democrat, voiced concerns over both the proposed NOAA budget and recent staffing and funding cuts at the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Weather forecasts are not waste, fraud and abuse," she said. "I ask my colleagues, did anyone come to your town halls and complain that the National Weather Service has too many meteorologists? Too many people issuing advisories, watches and warnings on severe storms?" Chandan Khanna/AFP via Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: The logo of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) is seen during a news conference at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Fla., on May 30, 2025. DeLauro also cited concerns from Bill Turner, Connecticut's state emergency management director, who said the situation is "a very fragile house of cards right now, and we need them to continue It really could be catastrophic in a lot of ways for our state if they go down that path of stopping the National Weather Service and their functionality." The bill now advances to the full committee for a markup on Thursday, July 24. The Senate's version of the bill allocates approximately $6.14 billion to NOAA for fiscal year 2026, just below the $6.18 billion approved for 2025. While this represents a modest overall decrease, the Senate Committee on Appropriations voted to boost spending for the agency's Operations, Research and Facilities (ORF) account, adding $68.7 million. The increase means more available funding that could go to key offices such as OAR, NWS and NESDIS (National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Hurricane season is here and meteorologists are losing a vital tool for forecasting them The current Senate bill explicitly signals support for NOAA's mission, including weather and climate research. "The Committee strongly supports Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes for their critical role in delivering high-quality weather information and driving economic benefits across the United States," the bill states. The bill also addresses staffing concerns at local NWS offices across the country and provides additional funding to ensure they become fully staffed. City of Kerrville - PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, flooding is shown in Kerrville, Texas on July 4, 2025. The bill's authors write, "Insufficient staffing levels risk compromising public safety and the NWS's mission to protect lives and property. The Committee provides an additional $10,000,000 for Analyze, Forecast and Support and urges the NWS to prioritize recruitment, retention, and training initiatives to ensure all weather forecast offices (WFOs) are fully staffed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While introducing the bill, Jerry Moran, R- Kan., chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Science and Justice, said, "NOAA, and particularly the National Weather Service, is a hugely important component of what this bill funds, and this bill recognizes that importance." He added that the bill "fully funds the National Weather Service" and "eliminates any reduction in the workforce." However, Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, raised concerns that the bill still gave too much discretion to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to determine the staffing levels needed to fulfill the agency's mission and statutory obligation -- "the Office of Management and Budget which clearly made the judgment that the National Weather Service has too many human beings working," Schatz said. He introduced an amendment that would have required the administration to maintain full-time staffing at levels in place as of Sept. 30, 2024, but it was rejected along party lines. The Senate Committee on Appropriations approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act on July 17 by a vote of 19-10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: How job cuts at NOAA could impact weather forecasting What does the Trump Administration want to cut? The administration's budget proposal calls for eliminating the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) as a NOAA Line Office, with several of its functions transferred to the National Weather Service and the National Ocean Service. OAR leads NOAA's weather and climate research and develops many of the forecasting tools meteorologists rely on to produce timely and accurate forecasts. The proposed budget would include shutting down NOAA's nationwide network of research labs and cooperative institutes. Among them is the Global Systems Laboratory in Boulder, Colorado, where the High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model, a critical tool in modern weather forecasting, was first developed more than a decade ago. The HRRR model helps meteorologists track everything from severe thunderstorms to extreme rainfall to wildfire smoke. The Global Monitoring Laboratory, also based in Boulder, oversees operations at Mauna Loa Observatory on Hawaii's Big Island. This observatory has maintained the world's longest continuous observation of atmospheric carbon dioxide and has been crucial to our understanding of how human-caused greenhouse gas emissions fuel global warming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Miami, Florida, plays a vital role in operational hurricane forecasting. The lab develops cutting-edge tropical weather models that have significantly improved forecast accuracy in recent decades. National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasters set a record for forecast track accuracy in 2024, according to a NOAA report. NHC issued 347 official forecasts during the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, and its track predictions set accuracy records at every forecast time period. MORE: DOGE now has access to NOAA's IT systems; reviewing DEI program, sources say Who will lead NOAA next? Earlier this month, during a confirmation hearing, Dr. Neil Jacobs, President Donald Trump's nominee to head NOAA, said he supports the administration's proposal to significantly cut the agency's budget arguing the reductions could be achieved by shifting work from research to operations without impacting "mission essential functions." Win McNamee/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this May 23, 2019, file photo, Neil Jacobs, acting administrator for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, speaks at NOAA's 2019 Hurricane Season Outlook press conference in Arlington, Virginia. Jacobs also said if confirmed, he would "ensure that staffing the weather service offices is a top priority," adding that, "It's really important for the people to be there because they have relationships with the people in the local community. They're a trusted source." NOAA's 2025 budget costs Americans less than $20 per person this year. ABC News reached out to NOAA for comment, but did not immediately hear back. SOUTHWICK After months of meetings of the Conservation Commission, the Select Board, and a task force to finds solutions for the overuse of the North Pond Conservation Area, on Monday the commission approved purchasing 27 signs for the property to let visitors know what can and cant be done there. Its been painfully slow, said Select Board member Diane Gale about the lengthy process of getting the signage approved by the commission. She was disappointed that there was a lack of prioritization about getting the signs approved over a year since a brawl on July 19, 2024, that started in the conservation areas parking lot that spilled onto South Longyard Road and spurred the town to find permanent solutions on how to protect the 61-acre property from overuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The signage was recommended by a task force created by the Select Board last September, and, for the most part, the language to be used on them would make clear what is and isnt allowed on the property. Since then, there have been dozens of recommendations to limit the damage caused by visitors, but everyone agreed installing signage was necessary. It wasnt until early May that Gale, Police Chief Rhett Bannish, Conservation Commission member Norm Cheever, and Conservation Commission Coordinator Sabrina Pooler finalized what signs are needed, what the signs should say, and the number required. However, it was the Conservation Commission that had the responsibility and authority to design and order the signs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Cheever thanked Pooler for her marvelous work on getting the sign issue mostly settled she will now order the signs from Massachusetts Correctional Industries with what each will say and be sent a proof to ensure there are no spelling errors. The state Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, which had already approved placing the signs on the property because it owns the conservation restriction, was sent the language proposed for the signs and provided feedback. It suggested deleting some items, like MassWildlife will monitor the property and including on the signs language that makes it clear the signs cannot be damaged, defaced, or tampered with. With the sign issue decided, Cheever moved onto other issues involving the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commissioner Dennis Clark said he had met with the Massachusetts Environmental Police and discussed the man who lives just off Babb Road and has been ignoring many of the North Pond regulations, specifically raking and removing vegetation and natural debris, creating new trails, and destroying vegetation. The abutter is on their radar, Clark said. He added that the MEP has had issues with the man before and were very disappointed he hadnt been complying with what he was told he could do and not do on the property. It is also believed that in 2021, the same person, using motorized equipment, cut an unauthorized trail and cleared natural debris from the shoreline, specifically along the area formerly known as Kings Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clark said Monday that the enforcement agency will have another conversation with the man. There is a gate between the Babb Road property and the conservation area. Clark suggested fencing if off to deny access should be considered by the commission. Clark added that the MEP would like to be notified when the signs go up, which is still not clear. Since May, Cheever had been walking the property to document violations. During a recent visit he saw 17 pontoon boats beached on the shore, and, Im told 17 is a low number. Boats cannot be beached above the propertys high water mark. He also said Monday that since he started walking the property on May 30, he has documented 107 violations of the regulations, which include no grilling, campfires, coolers, littering, drinking alcohol, and hanging ropes off of trees to use as a swing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gale said Tuesday that she was told by an anonymous person that a rope swing is being used once again. Last September, after nearly a year of discussion, the town had two trees removed in the former Kings Beach area of the property where ropes swings had been hanging for years because of liability concerns. Cheever said he looked for the rope swing but couldnt find it on two separate occasions but did document that he found wooden slats had been nailed to a tree to allow it to be climbed and perhaps used as the jump off point for the swing. Gale thinks the rope is hidden in one of the trees. Cheever also said the snow fence that blocks one the propertys three trails continues to be damaged, despite it being repaired each time its found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also documented loose dogs on the property, littering averaging a half bag each visit, a soiled diaper, and ATV, mountain bike and dirt bike tracks. He suggested installing a fence at one of the propertys entrances that would allow people in, but not the ATVs, bikes, and motorcycles. In his documentation, most of the violations occur at the former Kings Beach. Gale said when the signs do arrive, at least two will be placed within feet of the shore at the beach to announce being there is a violation with the possibility of being cited for trespassing. Read the original article on MassLive. South Carolina could see yet another new state forest with The Conservation Funds purchase of 8,000 acres in Georgetown County. (Photo provided by The Conservation Fund) South Carolina could see yet another new state forest the third announced this year with a conservation groups purchase of 8,000 acres inland of the Grand Strand. South Carolina could see yet another new state forest with The Conservation Funds purchase of 8,000 acres in Georgetown County. (Photo provided by The Conservation Fund) The massive timber tract near Carvers Bay, purchased by The Conservation Fund for $34.2 million, joins a pair of properties in the Lowcountry expected to become state forests after a two-decade hiatus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carvers Bay Forest is one of the nations most productive working forests, said Jason Johnson, South Carolina state director for The Conservation Fund. When the land went up for sale, we stepped in to ensure that it will continue to support wildlife habitat, clean water, recreation, and economic opportunities for local communities now, and for generations to come. The large tract, previously owned by Atlanta-based Forest Investment Associates, lies in the rural, inland area west of Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. It is part of 12.85 million acres of forest land in South Carolina, according to the U.S. Department of Agricultures 2025 fact sheet for the state. Johnson said the purchase by The Conservation Fund guarantees the land wont be subdivided by development or converted into one of the large retirement communities popular along the coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Conservation Fund will continue to cut timber on the property and will honor private hunting leases in place. But eventually within the next four years Johnson said they hope to transfer the land to the state Forestry Commission, creating a new state forest and allowing for public access. The property joins a 1,644-acre forest tract, called Beech Hill in Dorchester County, that the Open Space Institute purchased for $11.35 million in May. That land is located between the Edisto River Wildlife Management Area and Givhans Ferry State Park, about 12 miles west of the fast-growing town of Summerville. Also in May, the Nature Conservancy purchased 2,700 acres in Jasper County known as Chelsea Plantation, for $32 million. Originally nearly 6,000 acres, other parts of the tract had already been sold to home builders. Swallow-tailed kite nest on 8,000 acres in Georgetown County purchased by The Conservation Group. The bird is an endangered species in South Carolina. (Photo provided by The Conservation Fund) The size of the Carvers Bay forest property alone makes the land deal stand out, creating a new core of conservation activity in the northeastern part of the state, Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its about 10 miles away from Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge and streams on the property flow into the Black River, providing water quality protection for the recently expanded Black River State Park. The forest also is home to nesting sites for swallow-tailed kites, which are endangered in South Carolina. Emily Jo Williams of the American Bird Conservancy said researchers have tracked via transmitter at least four kites that nest on the property. The soaring black and white raptor is popular among bird watchers in that part of the state, Johnson said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) El Paso County Constable offices will team up with the Texas Department of Transportation and other law-enforcement agencies in El Paso County to increase traffic enforcement through early August. Speeding will be the particular focus of this effort, according to a news release sent out by the Constables Office for Precinct 4. Other Constable offices throughout the County, however, will be participating. Constable offices for Precinct 3, 4, 6 and 7 have confirmed their participation; all precincts have been invited to participate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The enforcement period began on Friday, July 18 and will last through Aug. 3 Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases how much distance youll need to stop to avoid a crash. Speeding can be expensive. Slow down or you could face hefty fines and court costs, and your insurance rates could go up as well, the news release said. Also, fines double if you speed in a school zone or a construction zone when workers are present, the news release said. The goal is to prevent or decrease the number of fatal and serious injury collisions where speed is a contributing factor, the news release said. Advertisement 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 KTSM 9 News. Boozies has been a staple in downtown Davenport since it was established in 1979. Monica McKown took over as the owner after the death of her brother six years ago. Now, the restaurant is facing an uncertain future over the next six months. They will be temporarily closed during that time due to construction on the second floor. Ive met so many people over the years that had their first date here, met their partner here, said McKown. People that come back from Palmer, who graduated from Palmer 20, 30, 40 years ago. So, its very, very sad. The bar was preparing for another busy weekend on Friday. But, in the evening they received a message from the owners of the building they rent the space from. M3 Iowa Holdings hired an engineer to examine the second floor of the building five months ago after McKown noticed the floor beginning to dip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement made by M3 Iowa Holdings, they said, We acted promptly and engaged engineers to conduct thorough investigations. Unfortunately, their most recent findings confirmed that the structure poses an immediate risk to those inside, and they recommended immediate evacuation of the first floor. Matt Matthews, the owner of M3 Iowa Holdings said that they had been working on the foundation of the building for the past few months. Now, the foundation is strong enough to handle the reconstruction of the upstairs. This has allowed for them to take action to make the building safe again. However, it meant temporarily closing Boozies during one of the busiest weekends of the year with the Bix 7 on Saturday. McKown now has an excess of supplies because the restaurant has been closed. We have thousands of dollars worth of merchandise and food and alcohol and liquor, said McKown. Theres been many years where people come in just to say hi, that run the Bix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matthews knows the community may be disappointed to see the closure of the restaurant, but stresses the construction needs to be done. This was not an easy decision, said Matthews. It is our responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone who enters the building. McKown is searching for a temporary location for Boozies until the building is done with construction. She fears for the future of the business after already having to lay off their DJ, barbacks, and security. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) While fairgoers are taking in all the experiences theyre used to at the 2025 Ohio State Fair, theyll also notice some major construction projects that are underway on the fairgrounds. Its super exciting, Ohio Expo Center and State Fair Deputy Director of Operations and Experience Alicia Shoults said. Were always really excited to have fairgoers come back and see us and see all the progress. Butter Cow sculptures at 2025 Ohio State Fair depict construction site Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new Ohio Showcase building and a 175,000-square-foot agriculture center are in the process of being built. A building has been set up where fairgoers can go in and get a closer look at the construction site. Its amazing to think, so just last year in May of 2024, we broke ground, so behind me where you see the Ohio Showcase building, thats grown significantly over the last 12 to 16 months, Shoults said. That was a blank spot in the ground, so its really amazing to see how much things have grown and developed and are vertical now. None of the construction should get in the way of peoples fair experiences. Shoults recommended attendees check the maps or the fairs app, as some things may be in different locations than where fairgoers are accustomed to. We had one of our construction partners that we work with and he always jokes that its like living in your house while theyre renovating it, and so thats very much what the fairgrounds is like right now, but weve got a great synergy and relationship with our contractor so we can all live in harmony while were in the middle of our household renovations here at the fairgrounds, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work is also happening at the dairy products building where the theme of this years butter cow was revealed. 2025 Ohio State Fair: What to know before you go It seemed very fitting that this year we depicted a buttery construction scene as not only the historic dairy products building but many of the areas on the fairgrounds are under construction, American Dairy Association representative Jenny Crabtree said. The fair has been taking place on the property since 1886. Shoults said there is also some underground infrastructure work going on. The work is expected to be completed by the 2026 fair and is all part of the Expo 2050 Master Plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im really looking forward to a lot of these buildings being open, and theyre just, theyre massive and theyre, and theyre a gamechanger for us, Shoults said while standing in front of the construction site for the Ohio Showcase building and agriculture center. She said the work is needed not just for the fair but also for the other events which take place on the fairgrounds throughout the year. The total cost is about $460 million. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Key Points Bank of America is the second largest U.S. bank and the fifth largest financial company by market capitalization. The company just reported strong second-quarter earnings. There could be some positive tailwinds coming for the banking industry. 10 stocks we like better than Bank of America To say that Bank of America's (NYSE: BAC) progress in the 15 years since the end of the financial crisis has been impressive would be an understatement. The bank went from being one of the most troubled of the major financial institutions to one of the most respected in the industry. In fact, Bank of America is now the second largest U.S. bank stock by market cap. However, Bank of America could still be an attractive business to invest in, especially now. Let's take a quick look at where Bank of America ranks in the overall financial sector, how the business is doing, and why now might be a smart time to buy. Image source: Getty Images. The largest financials companies by market cap The largest financial company in the world is Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A)(NYSE: BRK.B), with a market cap of more than $1 trillion. Many investors don't realize it, but Berkshire is technically an insurance company at heart -- Warren Buffett built its empire using insurance float from subsidiaries like GEICO and others. With that in mind, here's where Bank of America fits among the largest financial companies (the link leads to our up-to-date list) based in the United States by market cap: Company (Symbol) Description Market Capitalization Berkshire Hathaway Conglomerate with insurance focus $1.02 trillion JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM) Bank $809 billion Visa (NYSE: V) Payment processor $677 billion Mastercard (NYSE: MA) Payment processor $502 billion Bank of America Bank $352 billion Data source: CNBC.com. Market caps as of 7/21/2025. So, as of this writing, Bank of America is the fifth largest financial sector company by market cap and the second largest bank stock. It's likely it will stay this way for at least a little while, as there's a wide gap between Bank of America and the No. 4 (Visa) as well as with the No. 6, fellow big bank Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC), which has a $260 billion market cap. How it's going Bank of America, and most other large bank stocks for that matter, just reported second-quarter results. In general, the numbers looked strong, and here are some key highlights: Consumers claim local furniture store took their money then closed its doors A Seminole County furniture store had great online reviews. Andrew Trautmann said, They sent me a really cool sort of intro pack with lots of samples of different types of leather. But after he paid thousands of dollars up front for a leather sofa, Trautmann said the company kept delaying his order, then just left him hanging. Emails, no response. Phone calls went directly to voicemail, he said. Do you have a consumer complaint or need help from Jeff Deal and Action 9? Click the banner below to submit a tip. Colliers Furniture Expo had been in Seminole County since 2010. It opened in Altamonte Springs, then later moved to Towne Center Boulevard in Sanford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Trautmann found the company online where it also used the name Leather Furniture Expo. Trautmann said, And for what I wanted for this particular project, they had a great selection to pick from. The reviews he saw indicated it took a long time to get the furniture, but the quality was excellent. In September of 2024, he paid a deposit of more than $2500 for an Italian leather sofa. He originally said it was supposed to take several weeks, but those weeks turned to months. He kept waiting while he said the store continued to make excuses about why the delivery was delayed. Then finally in late April of 2025, he got word his couch was in Mexico at the border and soon set for delivery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And they needed a final payment. So, I gave him another, I believe it was $4,000 or $4,200, Trautmann said. But after paying, there were more excuses, the couch never arrived and eventually messages werent returned. Then he saw a message on the Leather Furniture Expo website noting the company discontinued operations due to financial difficulties. Better Business Bureau CEO Holly Salmons told Action 9, We certainly have seen an uptick in the number of consumers both inquiring on our website and also filing complaints. Salmons pointed out many complaints were similar to the problem Andrew Trautmann had. People paid deposits and didnt receive the furniture or a refund. We saw nearly 40 complaints against Leather Furniture Expo in the past year. The Action 9 team went looking for the owners and found one of them, Michael Collier, at his luxury beachside condo in Volusia County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consumer Investigator Jeff Deal asked, What would you say to people who felt like they paid thousands of dollars and just didnt get anything for it? Michael Collier answered, Well, I dont know how many there out there that didnt get anything for it, because you can, most of the time you could, you know on credit card, you can charge back the credit card. Action 9 investigates air duct company claiming to have A+ Rating Collier said he feels bad about it, but the company fell on hard times, they had to file for bankruptcy after 15 years in business and they worked to notify other vendors who could assist with the orders. Court records show the company had more than $24 Million in gross revenue from 2022 through 2024, but it claimed the margins were thin. The documents show the company later claimed that its financial condition has materially deteriorated since filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy so that it now cant even move forward and reorganize. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Trautmann did eventually get his sofa, but only after he paid for it a second time through another dealer. Its not exactly the way he hoped his buying experience would go. He advised, Do your homework and make sure that theyre reputable and have credibility. Trautmann did the right thing paying with a credit card, and he was able to dispute the final payment. He got that money back, but the original deposit was too long ago, and so he lost out on the more than $2500 he paid. If you find out a company that owes you money has filed for bankruptcy, its a good idea to gather all your documents and notify the court so you can be included if there are assets to be paid out. You could also file a complaint with the Florida Attorney Generals office. Small claims court could be another option. LA SAL, Utah (ABC4) Crews fighting the Deer Creek fire in San Juan County have now contained 77% of the fire, according to the latest information from Utah Forestry, Fire and State Lands. Weather conditions are expected to warm up as drier conditions move in with a slight chance of thunderstorms, officials said in a press release. Crews say they will continue to focus on cleaning up and increasing depth on firelines, felling roadside hazard trees, and addressing any hot spots and smoldering areas. Deer Creek Fire. Courtesy: Utah Fire Info Deer Creek Fire. Courtesy: Utah Fire Info Deer Creek Fire. Courtesy: Utah Fire Info The fire that started on July 10 has reached 17,648 acres, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. It has grown about 120 acres since Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Road closures remain in effect across the La Sal Mountains region for public safety during ongoing firefighting operations. County roads within the San Juan County evacuation area are closed to public traffic. Deer creek fire now 77% contained, favorable weather conditions boost containment efforts Courtesy: Utah Fire Info With the increase in containment, some of the firefighters involved will be released to support other fires or will be able to travel home for rest before responding to other fires, officials said in the press release. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. The largest great white shark ever tagged by an ocean research group in the Atlantic has been spotted just off the coast of Massachusetts. Contender, a mature male shark measuring 13.8 feet and weighing around 1,653 pounds, emerged near Nantucket on July 18. Shark Week 2025, an annual programming block from Discovery, coincidentally began two days later on July 20. The sharks tag pinged around 100 miles south of Boston and 30 miles from Cape Cod a popular tourist destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The powerful animal was tagged on January 17, around 45 miles off the coast of Florida and Georgia, in order to help researchers and conservationists. Contender, the largest Great White shark tagged in the Atlantic, has been spotted off the coast of Massachusetts (OCEARCH) Contender then headed up to the Outer Banks in North Carolina, which researchers say is typical of great whites. It is believed the stop may be due to rich food resources in the region and gives the animal time to prepare for a journey north that could be more than 1000 miles. According to Ocearch, Contenders name is in honor of Contender Boats, a longtime partner of the research group, whose industry-leading sport fishing and pleasure boats enable its research missions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contender is the largest male white shark ever caught, SPOT tagged, released and now studied in the North West Atlantic white shark population. The tag, which pings when the sharks dorsal fin breaches the surface, will last for five years. Researchers estimate Contender to be about 32 years old, with great whites typically living between 30 and 40 years. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that some creatures can reach the age of 70. Humans have always had an emotional relationship with predators. We both revere and demonize them. We buy more than 100 million teddy bears annually for our children, while 50,000 real bears are hunted yearly in North America. Cultural fables and fairy tales simultaneously vilify and celebrate predators from The Lion King to the Three Bears to the Big Bad Wolf. In elementary school, we teach kids about the food chain and how every animal is crucial in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Predators are often the entry point to understanding ecology for young minds, with an abundance of nature films about sharks, bald eagles, tigers and many more fascinating predators. Somewhere between elementary school and adulthood, we forget what predators teach us and how much we need them. And it is this nations adults who need to reconcile their ideas about predators and decide if we truly want to live with the ones we once attempted to exterminate. Our capacity to erase predators is proven. Our ability to conserve and recover them is equally established. The fundamental question remains: Do we wish to live alongside them? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This age-old conflict resurfaced in California recently, igniting modern tensions. This spring, the Los Angeles Times wrote several articles on predator tensions, including a suspected black bear attack in Sierra County, conflict between farmers and a handful of wolves, and ranchers pressuring legislators for permission to remove wolves. Ranchers spotlighted these sparse examples by with an ominous, documentary-style video online likening the severity of the issue to investigative crime reporting. This reporting paints a picture of an intensifying war between predators and those who would hunt them, if not for California law. The reality is that these examples of predators affecting humans are extremely rare. However, these stories build up and fuel a societal bias known in psychology as the availability heuristic, whereby a person uses a mental shortcut to judge the likelihood of an event based on how easily examples come to mind. When our judgment is clouded in this way, we design wildlife policy driven by fear, not reason. Images of a calf mauled by a wolf are evocative and ignite emotional responses. The same is true of an image of a wolf caught in a snare trap slowly suffering as it struggles to free itself. The conflict among wolves, prey and people is real. The question is how to manage it responsibly. First, we need clarity on the actual harm done by predators, including wolves. Wolves do attack livestock, but statistically the risk of an individual cow being attacked by a wolf is less than 1 in 100,000 in any given year. In more than 125 years across North America, wolves have only ever killed two people . In contrast, Americans kill each other at an annual rate of 6.8 per 100,000 individuals . It is clearly safer to be cattle with wolves roaming about than it is to be a person in society. This is not to say a wolf mauling a calf is not a tragic loss for an individual rancher, but we need to reckon these sparse personal losses with the drastic ecological damage of hunting wolves to near extinction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, there are approximately 6,000 to 8,000 gray wolves remaining in the contiguous U.S. ( down from approximately 2 million ). Wolves are known as ecosystem guardians or keystone species, meaning they are critical to maintaining ecosystem balance. When they are systematically removed, we see increases in livestock diseases, land degradation and food chain destabilization. Given the rarity of actual wolf attacks, we must invest in solutions that protect both ranchers and predators. An example is Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers proposal to include $3.7 million in the state budget for wolf monitoring and abatement projects. These nonlethal methods are the most effective way to ensure predators and humans coexist. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture data, nonlethal methods reduce wolf-livestock conflicts by an average of 91%. Yet in 2023, USDAs Wildlife Services devoted less than 1% of its $286-million budget to nonlethal efforts. Despite nearly equal preference among livestock producers for both approaches, the money overwhelmingly supports lethal control. It is possible to create a future in which wolves, cattle and ranchers coexist with minimal harm. However, it is not possible to imagine a world in which one side wins outright without severe negative consequences. We have the resources to find a win for ranchers and a win for wolves if the American people choose to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peter Kareiva , a former chief executive of the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach and a former director of UCLAs Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, is a founding member of Team Wolf, an organization focused on the long-term protection and recovery of gray wolves. 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. Because I said so never is persuasive or satisfying. And it certainly should not be regarded as acceptable when it is the Supreme Court resolving important issues up to and including matters of life and death without the slightest explanation. Yet, that has been the pattern in recent weeks, as in a series of significant cases the court has handed down rulings without opinions or explanation. For example, on June 23, in Department of Homeland Security vs. D.V.D., the court majority lifted a district court order that prevented individuals from Venezuela and Cuba who were in the U.S. from being deported to South Sudan. The district court had issued a preliminary injunction against so-called third country deportation, finding that the individuals were not given due process: They were not provided sufficient notice or a meaningful opportunity to challenge their deportation based on their fears for their safety. The judge was understandably concerned the individuals could be subjected to torture or death upon arrival. Federal law is specific on where people can be deported to, and there is a strong argument that the Trump administration would violate the law in sending these individuals to a country where they had no prior contacts. Read more: Deaf, mute and terrified: ICE arrests DACA recipient and ships him to Texas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But without a word of explanation, the Supreme Court allowed the deportations to go forward while the case winds its way through the justice system, which could take years. All the while, these swift deportations to third countries can continue. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by Justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, wrote a blistering dissent: Apparently, the Court finds the idea that thousands will suffer violence in farflung locales more palatable than the remote possibility that a District Court exceeded its remedial powers when it ordered the Government to provide notice and process to which the plaintiffs are constitutionally and statutorily entitled. That use of discretion is as incomprehensible as it is inexcusable. In McMahon vs. New York, on July 14, the court again lifted a district court order preventing the president from firing approximately 1,400 employees of the Department of Education as part of dismantling that agency. The Education Department was created by federal statute, and it should take an act of Congress to eliminate it. Many of the 1,400 employees were protected from firing by civil service laws. A federal district court issued a preliminary injunction against the administrations firing of these individuals and acting to eliminate an agency created by Congress. Read more: Arellano: The forgotten godfather of Trump's scorched earth immigration campaign Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, the Supreme Court without explanation allowed the firings to proceed. By the time the slow-moving appeal is heard on its merits, the Department of Education will have been destroyed. And again, Sotomayor wrote a dissent, joined by Kagan and Jackson, objecting to the majority overturning a district courts carefully reasoned opinion requiring that the Trump administration follow the law. These Supreme Court orders are no more than because we say so. We the people, though, should expect and demand more from the justices. Since the beginning of American history, the tradition is that the Supreme Court justifies its rulings. The opinions convey that the justices are making reasoned decisions, not merely exercising power. The explanations are important, providing a rationale for the parties in the litigation, as well for the public. Opinions give guidance to lower courts, Congress and state legislatures. There is a special need for opinions in cases requesting, as these did, swift action to undo what a lower court has done. It is well-established law that a preliminary injunction by a federal district court should be overturned on appeal only in extraordinary circumstances. Such a finding requires showing that the federal district court abused its discretion, a rule that is intended to give great deference to the trial judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Contributor: Even if you think Sean Combs is guilty, his conviction should give you pause Among my many concerns with the Supreme Courts rulings in these emergency proceedings colloquially known as the shadow docket is that the justices repeatedly seem to ignore the long-established need for deference to district courts in reviewing preliminary injunctions. And it is even worse when they overrule the trial court without any explanation as to why the judges abused their discretion in granting the preliminary injunctions. There is the strong sense when matters are resolved without any explanation that the justices are just doing whatever they want. There is no excuse for the court not putting something in writing in these rulings. If there is time for the dissenting justices to write an opinion, as weve seen, there is no reason why one of the justices in the majority cannot do so as well. And if the court perceives a need for an especially swift ruling, without time to write an opinion, it can issue its order and then subsequently release the opinion. The justices have done that in the past on occasions. The stakes in these emergency appeals of district court matters are enormous. These cases pose profound issues with regard to separation of powers and the authority of the president. They often enormously affect real peoples lives. The justices owe it to all involved and to the country to explain their thinking. Because we said so is just unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the UC Berkeley Law School, is a contributing writer to Opinion Voices. 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. CENTER POINT, Texas (KXAN) As early as 9:30 a.m., youll find Arturo Ramon standing over a grill at the Center Point Fire Department. Arturo Ramon volunteered his time, food and culinary skills to feed flood volunteers hot meals in Kerr County. Kind of a Mexican play on crispy tacos for lunch, he said, cooking up the first of several meals for the day. Community Foundation says it raised more than $60M for flood Ramon owns the Blanco River Meat Company in Driftwood. He said he packed up a truck full of food and headed to Kerr County as soon as he learned the extent of the flood damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the latest update, the floods claimed the lives of 107 people, and three people are still missing. Ive told the community Im committed to staying here until theyre done, he said. Hes posted up at the Center Point Fire Department, which was served as a coordination point for volunteers. Cooking for the heroes, thats what Im doing, Ramon said. They were shoveling mud out of the building, and I said Well do you all need any help? They said no. And then I said OK, well I have food, and Ive been here ever since. The first night, I slept in my truck, but now Ive made some friends and actually stayed at a police officers house. Ramon said hes cooking for the heroes. Hes served a plethora of meals from taco to tri-tip so search and cleanup volunteers can have a hot meal before or after they work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramon is proud to cook for a community he now calls his own. Ive got my Center Point hat, I mean I just feel a part of it, Im even staying at one of their houses, he said. I feel like everyone here is here for the same reasonthey want to help. And thats Texas, right? Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. It's been a perfectly pleasant summer in Indiana, hasn't it? Right, so long as you've never stepped a foot outside your air-conditioned home and you live far enough away from a cornfield. For the rest of us, summer has been a grueling, hot and sweaty mess. The latest heat dome isn't helping. If your heart is already set on autumn leaves and Pumpkin Spice Lattes, the Old Farmer's Almanac has issued its seasonal fall weather forecast for the Midwest. Their prediction paints a cool and crisp looking autumn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climatologists at the National Weather Service, however, might disagree. Here's what forecast models are predicting for Indiana when summer ends and fall begins. Story continues after photo gallery. When is the first day of fall? September 22, 2025, is the first official day of fall in the northern hemisphere. Old Farmer's Almanac: Fall 2025 forecast for Indiana The Old Farmers Almanac, not to be confused with the Farmer's Almanac, is predicting a "cool and dry" fall for Indiana and the larger region Both the Ohio Valley and upper Midwest are predicted to have cooler than normal temperatures in September and October, writes the Old Farmer's Almanac, by as much two degrees. Farmer's Almanac issues Autumn Outlook for 2025 The 2025 autumn outlook by the Farmer's Almanac is calling for a "flirty, flurry, fall" this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Fall 2025 is shaping up to be a season of contrasts across the United States," writes the almanac. "From early chills in the North to lingering warmth in the South, and from stormy skies to tranquil stretches, this fall will keep us on our toes." The Midwest can expect clear skies in September with a "tug-of-war between fair weather and storm systems," according to the almanac. Severe thunderstorms and the potential for a tornado "will loom over the central states, particularly the Ohio Valley and the Plains." Sophia Capehart, 12, calls out to Charlie Hollingsworth, Camille Wallach and Izaak Selby on her boat Thursday, June 12, 2025, during the first week of Sailing Summer Camp with Eagle Creek Sailing Club for children ages 8 to 11. Capehart fell in love with sailing after hearing stories from her grandfather who went to the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and also sailed charter boats in the Caribbean Sea. She then learned the basics of sailing from her cousin on Lake Michigan. October and November are predicted to bring traditionally cool weather to large swaths of the country, with the Great Lakes regions seeing a chance for early snow. Whether either almanac gets it right this year remains to be seen. How accurate are the Farmer's Almanac and Old Farmer's Almanac? Despite assertions the almanacs are 80-85% accurate, studies have shown their long-range predictions are sometimes little better than a coin flip. One study cited by Popular Mechanics reported the Farmer's Almanac was right about 52% of the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Summer reading at the library: Not sure what to read this summer? Here's what people are checking out at the Indianapolis Public Library. What NOAA's Climate Prediction Center says about fall 2025 Meteorologists with NOAA's Climate Prediction Center have offered a peek into what lies in store for Hoosiers this fall. You might, as it turns out, have more time to wait before wearing your favorite sweater. A seasonal temperature outlook map issued Thursday, July 17, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the United States is leaning toward a warmer than average fall in 2025. A seasonal temperature outlook map issued Thursday, July 17, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the United States is leaning toward a warmer than normal fall. Indiana has a 33-50% chance of seeing warmer than normal temperatures from September through November, according to NOAA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So what does an average fall look like in Indiana, and will either almanacs get it right? Story continues after gallery. What's the average high temperature for fall in Indiana? Last year, average monthly high temperatures during September, October and November in Indianapolis were 81, 72 and 56, respectively, according to fall weather data provided by the National Weather Service. That's a little bit higher than Central Indiana's roughly 30-year fall average. From 1991 to 2020, NWS reported monthly climate temperatures for September, October and November had reached an average of 78, 66 and 52, respectively. That includes an average of 3.27 inches of rain. What are the dates for the four seasons in 2025? March 20, 2025 : first day of spring. June 20, 2025 : first day of summer. Sept. 22, 2025 : first day of fall. Dec. 21, 2025: first day of winter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indiana summers: A time for fireflies, the state fair and ... corn sweat? John Tufts covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. Find him on BlueSky at JohnWritesStuff. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Old Farmer's Almanac predicts cool fall for Indiana. But is it right? At first glance, police say, his uniform and his motorcycle had all the trappings of local law enforcement. The motorcycle had emergency lights and "Traffic" and "Public Safety" emblazoned on the side, pictures show. His uniform allegedly included a tactical vest, pepper spray, a badge and a gun. But in reality, Hemet police say, the man was a convicted felon impersonating local law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a Facebook post on Tuesday, Hemet police said they pulled over a motorcyclist who turned out to be a convicted felon allegedly impersonating a police officer. He also appeared to have a Glock-style handgun on his duty belt. The man, identified as Marshal Goodnight, 73, was armed with two stun guns, an expandable baton, handcuffs and pepper spray, the department said. Goodnight was wearing a tactical vest, olive slacks and a beige shirt, complete with a badge and what appeared to be a body camera and radio equipment. Police say they pulled over Goodnight on Monday after they saw him commit multiple vehicle code violations and activate emergency lights on his motorcycle. Read more: Man possibly posing as Border Patrol agent arrested in Huntington Park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goodnight was detained and Hemet police determined that his stun guns were in working condition. Goodnight is a convicted felon who is not legally allowed to possess firearms or related weapons, according to police. He's also not licensed to provide security in the state of California. Police arrested and booked Goodnight on several misdemeanor counts: suspicion of being a felon in possession of a stun gun; possession of a baton; being a felon in possession of a tear gas weapon; and for impersonating a peace officer. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact the Hemet Police Department at (951) 765-2400, Ext. 3725. 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. ELMRIA, N.Y. (WETM) The value of copper is increasing and is expected to go up with the limited supply and recent tariffs. With the value increasing, people are taking advantage of it and stealing copper. Weve seen a little bit of an uptick in copper theft we attribute it to the cost of copper that often dictates when a lot of it gets stolen so I think the value of copper is up right now so people tend to engage in that type of behavior to get as much as they can, said Bill Schrom, Chemung County Sheriff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elmira Civil War Prison Camp to break ground on new welcome center According to Sheriff Schrom, people are stealing copper from many places. A lot of people are going to the abandoned homes, and theyre cutting out water lines and different things in the basement area of the homes. It seems to be more prevalent in abandoned buildings and or abandoned homes, said Sheriff Schrom. There have been a few people arrested around the Twin Tiers for stealing copper. Weve recently arrested an individual not too long ago in the town of Southport, and it was right on Route 328 near the state line, the State of Pennsylvania line. We know that the Pennsylvania state police have also been working on some cases up in that area as well, and theyve also made an arrest, said Sheriff Shrom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senator Gillibrand proposes bill in Elmira to help law enforcement families obtain child care Local officials suggest keeping cameras on your property to protect yourself from being robbed. In this day and age, the cost of cameras is getting a lot more affordable. Theyre pretty easy to install if you can do that, and you can. Its always recommended to do that, said Sheriff Shrom. Police are recommending that if you see any suspicious activity to report it immediately by calling your local 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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. Is A Bitcoin and Ethereum Treasury Company Bubble Forming? originally appeared on TheStreet. After President Trump signed the GENIUS stablecoin Act into law on Friday, the crypto industry is anxiously awaiting what wave of adoption may come next. At the signing ceremony, President Trump once again invoked the idea that America was on the verge of a golden age as the government finally delivers clarity for those looking to leverage the newest tech in finance. He set expectations pretty high. The golden age of America is upon us, he said. With todays signing, the future of crypto and the crypto industry, the US dollar working together is going to be stronger and bigger and better than ever before. To capitalize on whats to come, there are a few strategies afoot that are pumping prices across the board. Ethereum, for example, surged more than 40% over the last two weeks as a few big buyers look to front-run the banks playing catch up. As we highlighted in our episode on Ethereum treasury companies, that mainly includes Ethereum co-founder Joe Lubins Sharplink Gaming and Tom Lees Bitmine Immersion Technologies. But the treasury trend isnt stopping with Ethereum just as it didnt stop with Bitcoin bull Michael Saylor and his company Strategy. But as Dragonfly general partner Rob Hadick tells us, the trend is starting to show a little froth and potentially a little greed. Hadick told Coinage he and his group of investor friends on a weekend getaway received six calls from people solely to chat about crypto treasury opportunities. So that tells you just how much excitement or fervor or just froth there is about that, he said. I think it continues to pick up pace as people are making money but I do think we need to be thoughtful as an industry about what we're promoting and what we're not. And to be fair, the largest promoters have been pretty clear about the concept: Provide a little buy pressure as a stop-gap until the cavalry that is TradFi and big banks building onchain arrives en masse. As Sharplink Gamings Joe Lubin explained rather frankly on CNBC a few weeks back, we still have a lot of ether out there and not enough activity to sop it up, and so thats a reason why we and others are doing the ethereum treasury strategies. Very fair. Very honest. But as these companies become more popular and issue more shares to buy Ethereum (or whatever underlying asset they are cornering) Hadick points out that the fees being charged also seem to be rising. The so-called promotes baked into these are making a lot of insiders quite a bit of cash. SOUTH LAUREL A tragic boating accident on Laurel Lake in the Holly Bay and Marshs Branch Boat Ramp area occurred on Tuesday evening, claiming the life of a Corbin man and leading to criminal charges against his brother, according to a report from WKYT. The Laurel County Coroners Office in the report confirmed that 53-year-old John Peace was killed after being struck by a boat propeller near the Holly Bay and Marshs Branch areas of the lake. Peace had reportedly fallen into the water, according to the Laurel County Coroners account, and went under the vessel where he suffered fatal injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boat was being operated by Peaces brother Don Peace, 53, Corbin who now faces multiple charges including operating a boat under the influence and vehicular homicide while under the influence of alcohol. The Laurel County Coroners Office told WKYT that the accident happened shortly before 5 p.m., and John Peace was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident reportedly occurred in the main channel of Laurel Lake. According to the Laurel County Correctional Center, Don Peace was taken into custody by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Following arraignment Wednesday morning, he is scheduled to appear in Laurel District Court next Tuesday morning for a preliminary hearing. At press time, Don Peace was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center in lieu of a $100,000 bond. DENVER (KDVR) An updated autopsy report has been released in the death of Megan Trussell, an 18-year-old student at the University of Colorado Boulder. The report from the Boulder County Coroners office maintained that the cause of death was suicide. Trussell was initially reported missing in February. On Feb. 9, Trussell was said to have been last seen leaving the CU Boulder campus, and her body was later found on Feb. 15 near the 40-mile marker on Boulder Canyon Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, the Boulder County Sheriffs Office completed its investigation into the death of Trussell, and the coroners office released the initial determination on the cause of death. The coroners office also said in a statement, The result of the toxic effects of amphetamine, and exposure to a cold environment (hypothermia) contributed to her (Megan) death. Leading up to the completed investigation Leading up to the completion of the investigation, the sheriffs office had reported that Trussells belongings were found, her phone in a Boulder Grocery store, and her purse near the 39.6-mile marker of Highway 36 along the bike path. Individuals involved in the findings of her purse or phone were believed not to have any direct contact with Trussell. Trussells family challenges decision of death Following the ruling of Trussells death, Vanessa Diaz, Megans mother, interviewed with FOX31 in June, where she said she was challenging her daughters case as she believed it was mishandled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They never tested the fingernail clippings. They never tested the neck swabs. They never tested anything. Nothing so part of our next steps is demand that that be tested, said Diaz. At that time, Trussells family was assembling essential hygiene items to distribute to the unhoused community to advertise a $1,000 reward for any leads or tips into her death. The plan was to start distributing the bags in early July. Mental health resources Mental health support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling or texting 988 or chatting online at 988lifeline.org. It is free and confidential. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah (ABC4) The man who allegedly shot his own brother said he felt like it was his only option after the two had been arguing earlier in the day, according to court documents. Kit James Welch, 20, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on one count of first-degree felony attempted murder and five counts of first-degree felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury. The victim was reportedly found with multiple gunshot wounds outside the home near 2030 E and Bo Mar Drive. Cottonwood Heights police provided the victim life-saving aid before he could be transported to a local area hospital for further care. Police reported the victim was later determined to be in critical condition while at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A brief standoff took place between responding officers and Welch before the 20-year-old safely surrendered and was taken into custody. While Welch requested the presence of an attorney and refused to answer police questions, he allegedly made multiple spontaneous utterances, saying that he would never intentionally harm someone but felt like it was the only option. Welch allegedly mentioned that he had been arguing with his brother and his dad about items that had been accumulating in the home, according to court documents. Police said a search of the home found several spots of blood and several gun safes and lockboxes for handguns. No other individuals were found inside the home at the time of the incident. Welch was ordered to be held in jail on a $30,000 bail, pending a pretrial hearing, despite police requesting a no-bail hold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Its 5 a.m. at Mother Health International (MHI), a birth center in Northern Uganda affiliated with Yale University, when the call comes in from a local midwife about 12 miles away. A woman in her village has gone into labor. The alert sets a series of gears into motion: a motorcycle driver is immediately dispatched to zip down the mostly unpaved roads to her location, while the nurse midwives at MHI prepare a room for labor and delivery. Within an hour, the laboring mother and her local midwife arrive at MHI where shes greeted by nurse midwives who work together to ensure a safe delivery. An ambulance stands ready in case the birth becomes difficult, but it isnt needed. Soon, the room celebrates: a new baby is welcomed into the world and placed onto her mothers chest. Midwife Rachel Zaslow, the executive director of MHI, has been in this situation many times. During her nearly 20 years at the center, Zaslow has seen the near-miraculous transformation in care for Ugandas pregnant women. When she arrived in 2006, up to 30 women might deliver babies daily in a worn-torn hospital with a single midwife. Now, MHIs highly effective model, called the Framework for Quality Maternal and Newborn Care, facilitates collaboration between traditional midwives in local communities and certified nurse midwives. The results are impressive. Healthy and safe births are commonplace at MHI, which has assisted with over 20,000 births since 2007. Zaslow says they have never lost a mother. That, she adds, is extremely rare in East Africa, and the rest of the world. Since implementing their model, the maternal mortality rate has dropped significantly, representing over 60 maternal lives saved. A traveling midwife in Afghanistan listens for a fetal heartbeat. Photograph by Lynsey Addario, Nat Geo Image Collection Could the United States, which has a maternal mortality rate much higher than other wealthy nations, benefit from MHIs midwife-centric approach to maternal care? Research suggests that it could. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the U.S. the overall maternal mortality rate is 18.6 per 100,000 live births; for Black women, the figure is even higher at 50.3 deaths per 100,000 live births, worse than MHIs numbers, a statistic Zaslow describes as alarming. Plus, in the U.S., the maternal mortality rate has been climbingits already the highest among high-income countriesand experts anticipate that rate to rise for a variety of reasons, including patchwork maternal care that fails many, as well as medical discrimination that disproportionally impacts Black, Native American, Hawaii and Pacific Islanders. According to a recent article in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, midwife care (which includes prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum care in settings such as hospitals and birth centers) can lower mortality rates as well as lead to fewer preterm births and low birthweight infants as well as reduced interventions, like C-sections, in labor. The authors note that although midwifery is growing, midwives attended just 10 percent of births in the U.S. in 2020. And in low- and middle-income countries, 82 percent of maternal deaths could be prevented by scaling up midwifery care, according to an estimation tool developed by the Institute for International Programs at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. More recently, a 2025 systematic review in BMC found that midwifery significantly improves maternal and newborn health in low- and middle-income countries while also lowering newborn mortality and morbidity. In late 2024, the World Health Organization published a position paper that echoed the benefits of a midwifery model of care, noting that it leads to more equitable outcomes and declining numbers of maternal mortality. Given the evidence, its no surprise that more women are turning to midwifery, looking for solutions to the countrys fractured maternal healthcare system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think patients have read a lot about the gaps in the U.S. maternal health model and they're looking for better experiences and more modern versions, says Anu Sharma, founder of maternal health start-up, Millie. As a result, one of the oldest forms of person-to-person medical care is experiencing a renaissanceand the field is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. We're bringing ancient wisdom back into the modern era, Sharma says. This is a revolution of what was once the norm: person-to-person care that treats childbirth as routine while leveraging medical advancements and technology as needed. Midwifery is an ancient profession and texts written by midwives date to the Renaissance. This relief showing a woman delivering a baby is on the tomb of Scribonia Attica, a Second Century Roman midwife. Photograph by James L. Stanfield, Nat Geo Image Collection Midwives train in Darfur, Sudan, 2010. Studies have shown that midwifery significantly improves maternal and newborn health while also lowering newborn mortality and morbidity. Photograph by Raul Touzon, Nat Geo Image Collection The long history of midwives Midwifery is by no means new; the system of women caring for women is mentioned in ancient texts and books authored by midwives date to the Renaissance. In early America, Black midwives who survived the Middle Passage brought their skills with them, practicing midwifery while enslaved. Known as granny midwives, these women delivered the infants of fellow enslaved women as well as the wives of their white owners. But midwifery practically disappeared in the United States at the close of the 19th Century as hospital births became the norm. Though the transition from home to the hospital was made in the name of safety, it dramatically increased maternal mortality rates. That was due to poor practitioner training, excessive interventions, and the failure to implement aseptic techniques, says Carol Sakala, who leads maternal health and maternity care programming at the National Partnership for Women & Families, a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maternal mortality rates, however, declined after 1920, due in part to public health advances and the development and use of antibiotics and aseptic clinical standards from the late 1930s as well as access to maternity care and safe and legal abortion. In the 20th Century, hospitals and doctors rose to the fore, gained a lot of power and control and systematically denigrated and displaced long standing birthing traditions, including midwifery care, says Sakala, adding that there were campaigns to eliminate Black granny midwives and immigrant midwives along with their knowledge and cultural practices. According to Keisha L. Goode, PhD, Assistant Professor, Sociology at SUNY Old Westbury, anti-Black racism is deeply intertwined with the story of midwifery. The field of medicine essentially destroyed midwifery and took it out of the hands of women [and] significantly medicalized it, says Dana R. Gossett, an OB-GYN and chair of the obstetrics and gynecology department at NYU Langone Health. As a result, traditional methods of labor and delivery were replaced with medicalized intervention, both for the better and worse. While they are now considered emergency procedures, in the 60s and 70s it used to be common for doctors to perform episiotomies (i.e. surgical cuts between the vagina and anus) under anesthesia, and to pull infants out forcibly with forceps. Each resulted in enduring complications. Forceps can cause severe perineal tearing or injury to the newborn while episiotomies leave new mothers with severe pain and longer recovery times. Women eventually resisted these practices. Gossett points to the mainstreaming of Lamaze in the 60s as one of the earlier notable pushbacks against hyper-medicalized births. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lamaze is a specific form of childbirth preparation that uses breathwork and focus to manage the pain of contractions, Gossett says. Women, she says, were attempting to take back control of the birthing process from male physicians. By midcentury, midwives started to resurge. [When] I was born [], my mother took Lamaze classes and had a natural childbirth, Gossett says. Ina May Gaskin, often referred to as the mother of midwifery founded The Farm, a Tennessee community focused on providing midwife care and training future generations, after a traumatic birth where a physician used forceps, in 1971. Shortly after, she published Spiritual Midwifery, a landmark book that advocated for home births and breastfeeding. In the next few decades, Gossett says that out-of-hospital births and the percentage of women using midwives began to increase. A midwife measures a newborn in New Mexico, 2018. Photograph by Lynsey Addario, Nat Geo Image Collection A midwife weighs a newborn in New Mexico, 2018. Photograph by Lynsey Addario, Nat Geo Image Collection Solutions for a broken model of care In December 2019, Jillian Perez was lying in a medical gown on the table in her OB-GYNs office for her first prenatal visit. She felt like a number, she remembers, as though her pregnancy was a problem to solve, rather than a natural process. It just didn't jive with how I wanted my pregnancy to be treated and to go, Perez says. I want to be talking to somebody who I know and trust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perez isnt alone, and science tells us that this kind of bond with a midwife has documented health benefits for mothers and children. When people feel safe and cared for, the hormones of labor work well, says Michelle Telfer, MHI midwife and Associate Professor of Midwifery & Women's Health at Yale School of Nursing. Research Telfer co-authored supports that women have better outcomes, including lower preterm birth rates, when they know their midwife and they have continuity of care with that midwife. Plus, the personal, one-on-one care midwives traditionally offer can help with overcoming implicit bias, or attitudes that unconsciously affect behavior, that contribute to higher mortality rates among minority groups. Indeed, research published in JAMA states that implicit bias of physicians has been associated with false beliefs that Black patients have greater pain tolerance than white patients. Telfer, however, stresses that building relationships is key to overcoming this bias. After her second appointment with an OB-GYN, Perez went to a local midwifery practice on the recommendation of a friend. Immediately it felt so different, Perez, now a mother of three, says. I just felt like I was listened to, and my pregnancy was being treated as a normal thing that happens, and your body knows what to do. Sharma also experienced firsthand how different a medicalized hospital birth is compared to one thats overseen by a midwife. In August 2019, during her third trimester, she developed gestational hypertension and had an early induction, which set off a two-and-a-half-day long labor and, ultimately, an unplanned C-section. Like nearly all new mothers, she was sent home with instructions to come back in six weeks. She ended up returning to the hospital 36 hours later with self-diagnosed postpartum preeclampsia, a condition that develops when blood pressure spikes dangerously high. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I showed up literally on the verge of a stroke, and I saved my own life, she says. What I had already begun to sense as a patient [] became a full-blown realization that our care model is completely broken. In response to what Sharma describes as the one size fits all approach to pregnancy, she started building Millie in 2020. The maternal health startup combines obstetric and midwifery services that women can access in clinics and virtually. An app that provides stage-relevant content, care team messaging, and other resources, as well as remote monitoring tools. It was just very much a pissed off mom who was trying to build a better experience, she says. But Millie isnt the only startup capitalizing on the midwife renaissance: Oula and Pomelo Care are both invested in rethinking womens health. A student midwife in Somaliland attends to a woman who came with complaints of weakness and dizziness six-months after giving birth. Photograph by Lynsey Addario, Nat Geo Image Collection A growing number of midwives The percentage of births attended by midwives was 10.9 percent in 2022, up from 7.9 percent in 2012, according to the American College of Nurse-Midwives. But it could be poised to grow exponentially, in part due to sheer need: According to 2021 projections from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, demand for OB-GYNs could exceed supply by 2030. Thats particularly true in rural areas where pregnant women must increasingly travel to get care, says Holly Kennedy, a nurse midwife and the Helen Varney Professor of Midwifery Emerita at Yale School of Nursing. Since 2010, over 500 rural hospitals have closed their labor and delivery wards and more are poised to close in the near future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy only discovered midwifery herself by the luck of the draw during an internship in the early 1980s. She was so impressed by the midwives, she decided to go back to school to become one herself. Today, shes passing on her knowledge to the next generation of midwives at Yale as a professor of midwifery and researcher. Now, there are many routes to becoming a midwife. Nurse midwives, certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board, are registered nurses with a masters or Ph.D. in midwifery. They have full prescriptive privileges and offer reproductive care from prenatal to birth to menopause. There are also midwives certified through the American Midwifery Certification Board without nursing degrees but who can operate in a similar manner, as well as professional midwives who are certified through the North American Registry of Midwives for non-hospital births. And then there are traditional midwives and doulas, who arent formally licensed but can play a vital role in the birth process. According to the Commonwealth Fund, integrating midwives into health care systems could potentially avert 41 percent of maternal deaths, 26 percent of stillbirths, and 39 percent of neonatal deaths. The benefits of a midwife model of care Using a midwife doesnt have to mean forgoing a doctor. At medical centers like NYU Langones Joan H. Tisch Center for Womens Health, theyre innovating on integrating the two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On a Thursday evening in May a group of about 50 women mingled over wine and hors d'oeuvres alongside the centers OB-GYNS and midwives as well as local doulas and lactation consultants. Just last year, the hospital embedded midwifery into its obstetrics and gynecology department, chaired by Gossett. She arrived at NYU via the University of California, San Francisco, which has a robust midwifery program, and admits that she was startled by the lack of midwifery at NYU. For the vast majority of women, [pregnancy] is a safe and healthy process, Gossett says. While physicians can play a critical role in reproductive care, theyre trained to view pregnancy as a disease process, says Gossett. In contrast, midwives treat pregnancy as a natural phenomenon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And to the degree that we can let [births] happen naturally. That's what we should be doing, she says. Thats why Gossett believes its important that the midwife or group of midwives is partnered with a physician group, including high-risk obstetrics. When things go wrong in labor, they go wrong very fast and they can go very, very badly wrong, she says, which is why having an embedded midwife practice within a hospital setting is ideal. Midwives are frontline maternity care providers in nearly all other nations, but ob-gyns are the dominant maternity care providers in the U.S., Sakala says. Because having a baby is not inherently pathological, this is a deeply irrational situation. A parallel, she says, would be using cardiologists for routine blood pressure checks who would have a more interventionist approach to healthy people. There's such a benefit [to a midwife model of care], but at the same time, you want to have an easy transition of care when things get more complicated or [a] patient changes from being a low risk patient to one that's more high risk, says Joanne Stone, Professor and System Chair of the Raquel and Jaime Gilinski Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. And other major medical centers have embedded midwifery as welltake Northwell Health, New York States largest healthcare provider, which has embedded midwifery at some locations, and the Midwifery Program at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, which operates independently but still prioritizes collaboration with physician colleagues. Parents and a midwife in New York share a moment of joy and relief after their newborn daughter was resuscitated. In the United States, which has the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income countries, midwifery could provide solutions for women and their children. Photograph by Jackie Molloy, Nat Geo Image Collection Reimagining America's maternal healthcare system Midwifery, Kennedy says, is a potential answer to the perinatal care crisis. But even though a recent Listening to Mothers survey found that a majority of women said they would want or would consider a midwife, the interest currently exceeds current levels of availability and use of midwifery care, Sakala says. Growing pains in the profession will be inevitable since theres a shortage of teachers in the field. Telfer points out that while doctors residencies are funded through the government, thats not the case with midwifery. Meanwhile, like all hospital care, the cost of hospital births is rising as much as 20 percent, according to some estimates. The median cost of a healthy vaginal birth in the United States is almost $29,000 (the median cost of a C-section is almost $38,0000). In comparison, midwifery is far less expensive and a more efficient way to deliver care. According to a 2020 case study by the National Partnership for Women & Families, childbirth costs at midwifery-led birth centers were 21 percent lower. In my mind, this is a perfect moment for us to have grown our midwifery program because they do help us grow in a cost-effective way, Gossett says. There are also larger reforms on the horizon: Sakala cites a new model from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services called Transforming Maternal Health as an immediate catalyst for midwifery. This 10-year care delivery and payment reform model in 15 states will provide resources and technical assistance that includes requirements such as increasing access to midwifery care and birth centers, Sakala says. She hopes it will foster a tipping point for midwifery. Her personal goal, and one shared by Birth Center Equity, is that 50 percent of births will be attended by midwives by 2050. Getting there might require a radical rethinking of maternal health in the United States. Goode notes that there are social, structural, and political determinants of health at play, all of which need to be addressed. We need a big picture, systems re-imagination of the perinatal healthcare system, she says. Midwifery can, as the evidence shows, be part of that shift, potentially leading to better outcomes for pregnant women and, like MIH in Uganda, significantly lowering the maternal mortality rate. APOLACON TOWNSHIP, SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A local councilman has been charged in connection with vandalism at a hunting cabin earlier this year. Police say he is facing multiple counts of criminal mischief as well as one count of trespassing. Adam Christian still holds his seat on Swoyersville council, but with the charges he is facing, many in the community want to see that change. Surveillance footage captured on April 23 shows a man casing and vandalizing a hunting cabin in Susquehanna County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage shows him smash out a window with what looks to be a hammer before attempting to break another. Police, and members of Rosehill Sportsmans Club, all believe the man in the video to be Adam Christian. Recently, we had thrown him out. In October of 2023 and ever since then, damage has been happening to the outside of the cabin, Hunlock Creek resident Kenneth Christian told 28/22 News. Kenny called me and said, We got him, its 100% Adam, and whatnot. And I said, Okay, call the police. And then a couple days later, we met the police here and showed them all the footage and everything we showed you, Dave Hunt from Shavertown said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All around the cabin, signs of destruction. Among the most recent damage, graffiti reading pride proud on the front of the cabin. Police showing off new wheels in Luzerne County Right between the window he successfully broke, and the other, made out of plexiglass, which he failed to damage. But this isnt the first time they say he damaged the property. They say the trail of destruction goes back nearly 10 years, and started when Adam was a member at the club. When he was kicked out in 2023, they say the property damage only got worse. Its happened three times in the past two years. Damage being done, all the windows being put out, spray paint, locks damaged. Just- destruction to all levels, Kenneth added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You wanna come enjoy yourself, right? And then I gotta come up here and fix everything all the time. But, like I said, he aint beating me, said Hunt. The men say they added cameras and reinforced the cabin doors and windows, believing eventually hed be back. Now, they just hope they can use their cabin in peace. I just want it ended. I want to come up here with my family and enjoy myself, Kenneth explained. We reached out to Adam Christian for comment on the charges. He did return our call, but said he could not speak without his attorney. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered a landmark unanimous advisory opinion on Wednesday, addressing the legal obligations for countries to address climate change under international law. Climate change poses an urgent and existential threat to all states, the court said. Countries have a legal duty to protect current and future generations from environmental harm, including rising global temperatures. All nations must cooperate together to solve this challenge, it said, with wealthier countries obligated to help developing countries adapt. The landmark case is the largest to be seen by the world court, and is expected to provide a legal blueprint for the responsibility of countries to address climate change. The case was brought forward by Vanuatu and other Pacific Island nations, after a youth-led movement in 2019 campaigned for it to be brought in front of the ICJ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its deliberations, the court was asked to answer two questions: What obligations do states have to ensure the protection of the climate for present and future generations? And, what are the legal repercussions for states which fail to meet these obligations, and cause harm? The courts reasoning addressed several major legal issues, including the scope of states climate obligations, how human rights obligations should shape climate policy-making, the right to reparations for developing countries bearing the worst impacts of climate change, the establishment of preventive and precautionary principles for climate mitigation, equity in states response to climate action, and the obligation to phase out fossil fuels. This opinion is not just about what countries have to do in the future, says Nikki Reisch, climate and energy program director at the Center for International Environmental Law. It is about the past, present, and future of climate action, and crucially, it's about recognizing that we can't solve this mounting climate crisis without confronting its roots, that past emissions matter, and that loss and damage already endured must be recognized and repaired. Among the many details in the courts opinion, it determined that once a state is established, the disappearance of one element cannot undermine its statehoodproviding protection for small island states facing rising sea levels. It also declared that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a human right and that states have an obligation to regulate private actors. While not named specifically, this could include oil and gas companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last December, the ICJ heard from a record number of states and international organizations on the case. The global majority of the world was aligned in their demand for climate justice and accountability, says Reisch. However, submissions largely reflected two views: those arguing for expanding the applicable law beyond existing climate treaties, and those advocating for a narrower view. The United States and the United Kingdom were among the states that argued for a narrower legal approach, arguing that the legal obligations of states are outlined in the Paris Agreement. And while the U.S. under President Trump is in the process of withdrawing from the Paris climate deal, some legal experts argue that todays ruling deems that move illegal. The opinion comes on the heels of two other landmark climate opinions. Last year, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea issued an advisory opinion affirming that countries must take all necessary measures to reduce, prevent and control emissions. Earlier this month, the InterAmerican Court of Human Rights issued an advisory laying out the obligations of states to respond to the climate emergency under human rights law. Advisory opinions are not legally binding, but the decisions provide a legal framework that is expected to bolster climate litigation around the world. It will become all that much more difficult for states to say that the rules don't apply to them because it will really show that the breadth of international law points to accountability and justice, says Reisch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A complete solution to this daunting and self-inflicted problem requires the contribution of all fields of human knowledge, whether law, science, economics or any other. Above all, a lasting and satisfactory solution requires human will and wisdom at the individual, social, and political levels to change our habits, comforts, and current way of life in order to secure a future for ourselves and those who are yet to come, said Judge Iwasawa Yuji, President of the Court, as he delivered the opinion. Whats more, Reisch says that the fact the case made it to the worlds highest court already shows where the global majority stands on climate action: It's important to underscore that this process has already made history with the very fact that Pacific Island states facing an existential threat and the youth movement from around the world have not only gotten the attention of the world's highest court, but have shown that the global majority is aligned in demanding that big polluters cease their destructive conduct and be held to account. Write to Simmone Shah at simmone.shah@time.com. German comedian Sebastian Hotz, who goes by his stage name "El Hotzo," was acquitted by a Berlin court on Wednesday in a case related to his social media posts about last year's assassination attempt on US President Donald Trump. Judge Andrea Wilms said Hotz's post on X following the attack did not qualify for the charge of disturbing the peace. She said the comments may have been distasteful, but described them as "non-punishable satire." "People must be able to argue about good and bad opinions," Wilms said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hotz compared the shots fired at Trump during an election campaign event in Pennsylvania last July to "the last bus," writing that "unfortunately" both had been "just missed." In another post, the satirist said: "I think it's absolutely fantastic when fascists die." While Trump emerged from the gunfire largely unscathed, with the shots hitting only his upper right ear, one person watching the rally was killed and two others seriously injured. The perpetrator was killed by security forces. Hotz deleted the posts shortly afterwards as a storm of criticism erupted on social media. The regional public broadcaster RBB subsequently ended its collaboration with Hotz on a youth programme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his closing statement at the Tiergarten district court, the prosecutor hd demanded that Hotz be given a "mild fine" of 6,000 ($7,040), saying "even satirists are not above the law." He said the posts should be considered as hate crime and were likely to disturb the peace, not least because of the large audience of 740,000 followers that Hotz has on X. The prosecutor said such behaviour creates a climate in which attacks on state officials can flourish. Hotz defended himself, saying that as a satirist he was "a little less serious" than many of his colleagues. When a satirist expresses an opinion, he said, it should be understood as a joke. Erie, Pa (WJET/WFXP) The release of court documents recounts the alleged events surrounding a recent fatal shooting involving a state parole officer. They come on the day Woodard would have celebrated his 44th birthday. Pennsylvania State Police, along with the Erie County District Attorneys Office, continues to investigate. Nearly three weeks after erie resident Marchello Woodard was fatally shot by a state parole agent, we now have information from an eyewitness standpoint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affidavit comes from a search warrant filed by the Pennsylvania State Police that requests the medical records of Woodard and another man. Although the documents do not directly say who that man is, it does state in part: It was discovered that the involved parole agent, , was also transported to UPMC Hamot Medical Center for assessment of, at this time, unknown minor injuries. According to the affidavit, a witness told investigators that Woodards demeanor changed, which led her to believe that Woodard would flee the parole agents. The witness then said that Woodard tried to drive away in a car after the parole agent made physical contact with him and that the officer grasped onto the car in an attempt not to fall under it. Thats when the witness heard three distinct sounds that she believed to be gunshots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodard was on parole after pleading guilty in 2017 to drug and firearm crimes. In the meantime, the Justice for Chello Coalition gathered on Tuesday in front of the Erie County Courthouse to honor Woodards life on his 44th birthday. The reason we dont have a big crowd is because of the diversion that theyve created in the media by releasing his girlfriends statement, which was after Marchello was already dead, said Tyrone Morrow, who attended the birthday celebration for Marchello Woodard. They said that this is a way they can facilitate healing while remaining ever present and focused on the larger mission of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not causing no trouble because Chello, if he was here, he was going to have fun, living a good life; he was a good person, said Shannon Mathis who also attended the celebration. Woodard would have been 44 today and off of parole. A Take Back the Site is being scheduled for July 30 at the corner of East 27th and German Streets at 5:15 pm for anyone who would like to attend. Related Stories: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. Adam Back's Bitcoin development firm, Blockstream, has acquired Swiss blockchain startup Elysium Labs. The acquisition will see the creation of a European incubator entity, Blockstream CH SAGL, according to an emailed announcement shared with CoinDesk on Monday. The deal terms weren't disclosed by the firms. Blockstream is building momentum around its European ventures, following the inception of its Lugano Research Center, which is focused on product development of Bitcoin layer-2 networks Lightning and Liquid. The firm has not disclosed financial details of the acquisition. Blockstream CH SAGL will serve as a hub for Blockstream's European operations alongside its Turin, Italy-based research and development team and the Lugano Research Center, according to Monday's announcement. An early proponent of the cypherpunk movement, Blockstream CEO and co-founder Adam Back is a notable figure in Bitcoin lore. Back developed Hashcash in 1997 to combat email spam, which was a direct influence on Satoshi Nakamoto in creating Bitcoin's proof-of-work mechanism, and was cited as such in the original whitepaper. Bringing Elysium Lab into Blockstream strengthens our Swiss presence and amplifies our commitment to nurturing innovation across Europe, Back said in Monday's announcement. Read More: Adam Back's Bitcoin Treasury Firm to Go Public with 30K BTC and $1.5B in Buying Power DENVER (KDVR) Highway 93 was closed between Highway 72 and 120th Avenue on Tuesday evening due to a crash, the Colorado State Patrol reported. The crash had closed the highway as of 7:13 p.m. The area is near Eldorado Springs and the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge. The roadway reopened by 8 p.m. See the latest traffic conditions in Denver on FOX31 The state patrol had few details about the crash, but reported that troopers were unsure when the roadway would reopen. A Colorado Department of Transportation camera captured Highway 93 at about 7:30 p.m. (Courtesy CDOT) The agency recommended that motorists take alternate routes, which include Indiana Street to the east or Highway 119 through Nederland to Highway 72 to the west. Advertisement 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. Felonies The following people were booked into the Lee County-Tupelo Adult Jail in connection with felony charges ending Monday at 11 a.m. Lekendrick Jamone Evans, 32, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, violation of parole, domestic violence, resisting arrest. Quintana Johnson, 32, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Mississippi Highway Patrol, capias for two counts of child abuse, child endangerment, speeding, following too closely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shamari McIntosh, 25, of Okolona, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, capias for felony shoplifting. Stevenson Rucker, 51, no address listed, was arrested by the Lee County Sheriffs Office, possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia. Christopher Swann Shaw, 47, of Tupelo, was arrested by the Tupelo Police Department, burglary of a commercial building, disorderly conduct. Lee County Sheriff's Office The following reports were filed Monday by the Lee County Sheriff's Office. A Fulton man said a neighbor has seen a dark-colored SUV at the mans County Road 1093, Plantersville, residence several times. The man drove to the residence and saw an unknown white couple, each around 30, going in and out of the residence. The female drove away in the SUV. The male drove away on a four-wheeler. The man went into the house and could not tell if anything was missing. There was no sign of forced entry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A County Road 2256, Baldwyn, man said he left his work trailer parked beside his house. It was parked about 2 feet from the road. When he got ready to go to work the next day, he discovered someone had driven off the road and hit the trailer, bending a rim, breaking the axle and breaking three running/brake lights. He did not know who hit the trailer. A County Road 122, Nettleton, man said a white male in a green shirt tried to open the door at his house at 5:30 a.m. Saturday. He walked outside and asked the suspect what he was doing. The suspect said he was looking for his dog. The suspect left walking toward County Road 1251. A Suzanne Lane, Tupelo, man said there was a four-door Chevy or GMC pickup doing burnouts and driving at a high rate of speed in front of his house around 7:30 p.m. He is concerned that someone will get hurt because of the reckless driving. He said he did not know the white male driving the truck. A County Road 185, Shannon, woman said her neighbors were riding their four-wheelers up and down the road, revving the engines at midnight. She said they also play loud music in the early hours of the morning. She said this is an ongoing issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Baldwyn woman said she was driving along County Road 231, Guntown, when her 2024 Chevy Tahoe struck a utility line hanging in the roadway. She said the line was not clearly visible. The cable scuffed the hood, roof, windshield and passenger mirror of her vehicle. A resident in the area said Tombigbee Electric Power Association was out until 3 a.m. that morning repairing the same line after it was damaged by a falling tree. Anyone with information on any of these reports is urged to call the Lee County Sheriff's Office at 841-9041, the Tupelo Police Department at 841-6491 or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Mississippi at (800) 773-TIPS or download the P3 Tip App and leave an anonymous tip that way. Police have opened a criminal investigation into the beating of an employee of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) during searches on 21 July. Investigative actions are currently underway. Source: Ukrainska Pravda correspondent at a briefing by Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko in Kyiv Quote: "I learnt that one of the NABU employees came to the Solomianskyi District Police Department to write a statement [about the beating he received during searches UP]. I told him to register criminal proceedings regarding the fact that Security Service of Ukraine officers may have caused bodily harm during the investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Kravchenko confirmed that investigative actions are currently underway, and all those involved in the incident have been taken in for questioning by law enforcement officers. Background: On 21 July, employees of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office conducted approximately 80 searches targeting 19 employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau in various oblasts of Ukraine. The head of NABU, Semen Kryvonos, reported that three NABU employees were injured during the searches on 21 July, but were prevented from documenting their injuries. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A new law will continue to improve patients access to mental health services, holding insurance companies accountable if the companies do not treat mental health and substance use disorders as equivalent to physical illnesses. Strengthening the states mental health parity law enacted in 2019, SB 10 enables the state to issue fines up to $625,000 if insurance companies do not comply. Further, the law also makes public those insurance companies who do not comply with the law. Connecticut ranks ninth nationally for mental health access, according to Connecticut Senate Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House passed the legislation in a 122-26 vote on June 2 and the Senate passed the bill in a 31-5 vote on May 21. This bill results in more transparency, information and consequences for noncompliance, said Rep. Cristin McCarthy Vahey, D-Fairfield, co-chair of the Public Health Committee. This will provide important data to legislators, regulators and the general public about parity for mental health coverage. The collaborative work, led by the Mental Health Parity Coalition, results in the state being able to assure compliance and access to mental healthcare for more Connecticut residents. The National Alliance on Mental Illness refers to mental health parity as the equal treatment of mental health conditions and substance use disorders in insurance plans. For example, NAMI states if you are provided unlimited doctor visits for a chronic condition such as diabetes that you must have unlimited visits for a mental health condition such as depression or schizophrenia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the bills analysis, SB 10 also limits a health carriers use of step therapy, which is a prescription drug protocol that requires patients to try less expensive drugs before higher cost drugs. Specifically, the bill prohibits certain individual and group health insurance policies or contracts from requiring the use of step therapy for drugs used to treat multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis, as long as the drug complies with approved Food and Drug Administration indications, the bills analysis states. Additionally, the bill makes permanent a prohibition on the use of step therapy for drugs used to treat schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, or bipolar disorder. Christian Damiana, public policy manager for Mental Health CT, told legislators, Gov. Ned Lamont and others at a signing ceremony at the Institute of Living in Hartford on July 10 that the state now has one of the strongest parity enforcement frameworks in the country. It is a major victory in our ongoing fight to ensure all Connecticut residents can access the mental health care they need, he said. For too long insurance companies have violated mental health parity laws with little consequences for denying care and placing unnecessary obstacles between patients and treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lamont said at the ceremony that the state would enforce the law. We are going to make sure there is mental health parity, he said. Physical health. Mental health. They are one and the same. The governor mentioned said after the COVID pandemic he listened to some of the 211 calls made by young people who said they never felt more alone and scared, asking if they were going to survive. The good news is people are coming forward when they know they have this need, he said. But its tough seeing the incredible stress out there. It is a reminder that physical health and mental health are one and the same and we will make sure our insurance companies remember that every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adrienne Parham remembers waiting eight hours for intake for an eating disorder unit for preauthorization from her insurance company to prove that I was deserving of inpatient care, the social worker recently said at the signing ceremony. She also recalls seeing other patients devastated when having to leave eating disorder treatments due to insurance coverage determining they are not sick enough to receive treatment due to their weight or lack of physical evidence of illness. I want to be clear in emphasizing that mental illness is not what you see on the outside, she said. It is the toll it takes on the person mentally and emotionally that makes the critical difference. Javeed Sukhera, chair of psychiatry at the Institute of Living and chief of the department of psychiatry at Hartford Hospital, told the Courant that parity has always been a problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mental health treatment for a long time has not been accessible, he said. It has been challenging to find. People who work in the system have struggled to get covered and supported and remunerated for their work. The problem of access to mental health in the United States is pretty deep and embedded. The bill allows the state to impose pretty significant fines that make it financially risky to deny legitimate care in an arbitrary fashion, Sukhera said. Sukhera said there is no incentive for the payor to change their practice if not held accountable for doing the right thing for the patient. For a patient right now there is a lot of time and energy that goes into denying coverage that gets in the way for people who are already feeling sensitive and stressed out, he said. This is a population of people in the state and the country who are already very vulnerable. They shouldnt have the burden of proof on them. It really helps shift the burden of proof for coverage and paying for coverage that is medically necessary away from people who are suffering and toward the payors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The stories Sukhera says he hears from patients are heartbreaking. Less people are taking insurance and more people are charging out of pocket and limiting access to families like mine, he said. Sukhera said the level of need continues to be unprecedented. The challenge of accessing care continues to be difficult, he said. The need is only growing and sadly in some cases it feels at times it is getting worse. Sen. Matt Lesser, D-Middletown, who wrote the mental health parity law in 2019, said he does not believe there is a family in the state who has not been touched by mental health or substance abuse issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unfortunately the great equalizer and folks in all corners of the state have experience with it themselves or with someone they love, he said. It is a time when we need to make sure we are keeping equal access to resources and taking care of our young people. State Sen. Jorge Cabrera, D-Hamden, co-chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, who led Senate passage of SB-10, according to Connecticut Senate Democrats, said the bottom line is the bill provides more transparency and accountability. Sen. Saud Anwar, D-South Windsor, co-chair of the Public Health Committee, said the law is a move in the right direction. This law allows us to have the mental health parity compliance strengthened further, he said. It is unfortunate that in many instances the insurers have failed to comply with the state and federal mental parity laws. This bill gives us a better opportunity to hold them accountable. Anwar said the bill also makes it illegal to limit anesthesia care. A South Windsor man wanted for skipping court was hit with additional charges Wednesday when he failed to tell officers he had hypodermic needles and drugs on him during his arrest. Jeremy C. Broad, 44, was wanted on three warrants charging him with second-degree failure to appear, according to the South Windsor Police Department. He was brought to the police department and turned over by bail enforcement agents shortly after 5 a.m., police said. According to police, officers asked Broad if he had anything in his pockets that could harm them and he said no. During a search, he was allegedly found with 11 wax folds of suspected fentanyl, a broken glass pipe and hypodermic needles, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Broad was charged with use of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance and second-degree reckless endangerment. Police noted that the reckless charges stemmed from Broad failing to tell police he had needles and drugs on him. He was held on a $475,000 bond and was expected to appear in Manchester Superior Court on Wednesday. An East Hartford man faces charges for allegedly assaulting a woman during a domestic violence incident in June and trying to attack a gas station employee on the same day. Paul Lawrence, 57, turned himself on shortly before noon in connection with two warrants police had for his arrest, according to the South Windsor Police Department. He faces charges of third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace. Police said Lawrence allegedly grabbed a womans hair and punched the side of her head several times, injuring her. Later in the day, he allegedly tried to attack the clerk at the Exxon Gas Station on John Fitch Boulevard, according to police. Lawrence was released on a $5,000 non-surety bond and was expected to appear Wednesday in Manchester Superior Court. URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) Urbana Tango Week is here, and community members are invited take part in immersive and educational events throughout the week. Urbana Tango Week is part of the 2025 CU Tango Music Workshop, which brings together students and Argentine Tango professionals from around the world. 23rd Dump & Run recycling program, sale happening soon in Urbana The workshop began on Sunday, July 20. Classes are scheduled Sunday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can find a full schedule of classes here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special evening activities are scheduled each day at 8 p.m. These free evening events include: Faculty and Guest Concert on Tuesday, July 22 at 8 p.m. at Rose Bowl Intro to Tango Dance on Wednesday, July 23 at 8 p.m. at Urbana Dance Company Tango Music Jam on Thursday, July 24 at 8 p.m. at the Rose Bowl Tavern Showcase Concert with Music Workshop Participants on Friday, July 25 at 8 p.m. at Urbana Dance Company In addition, from Tuesday through Friday, workshop musicians will perform at the Rose Bowl Tavern, located at 106 N. Race St. in Urbana, every night after the 8 p.m. events. Organizers said Tango in the Lot will be an intimate gathering of playing, singing and dancing. Champaign-Urbana Public Health District urges caution as temps increase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The jam is in parrilla style, a few folks playing at a time, passing the melody around, trading accompaniments, maybe singing a song or two. Its intimate, relaxed, and open to anyone who wants to make music together, CU Tango Music said. The grand finale event of the 2025 CU Tango Music Workshop and Urbana Tango Week will take place at Urbana Dance Company, located at 122 W. Main St. in Urbana on Saturday, July 26, from 8 p.m. to midnight. The tango social dance is open to everyone and will feature a DJ, along with live tango music performed by the music workshop musicians. The entrance fee is $20 if you preregister or $25 at the door. You can register to attend here. To learn more about the events offered this week, visit CU Tango Music online or on Facebook. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. To mark another anniversary of the death of Cuban dissident Oswaldo Paya on Tuesday, the National Endowment for Democracy honored the late Cuban opposition leader in a ceremony on Capitol Hill in Washington, an event that highlighted U.S. promotion of democracy and human rights in Cuba and around the world amid questions about the funding for such programs. Paya is one of the best known Cuban dissidents. He was the founder of the Christian Liberation Movement, which spearheaded the Varela Project a signature-gathering effort for a plebiscite on the countrys political system to use the Cuban constitution to challenge Fidel Castros rule. He was awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought by the European parliament and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by former Czech president and dissident Vaclav Havel. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights found that the Cuban regime had direct involvement in the death of activist Oswaldo Paya. Paya and the young activist Harold Cepero were killed in 2012 in a car crash provoked by Cuban state security agents, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, part of the Organization of American States, concluded in a 2023 report. Payas wife, Ofelia Acevedo, and his daughter, Rosa Maria Paya, who continued his human rights activism in exile in the United States, received the endowments 2025 Democracy Service Medal on his behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My fathers fight was a deeply Cuban project inspired by faith, rooted in non-violence and centered on the dignity of the human person, said Rosa Maria Paya. My fathers vision was a vision for a free Cuba but also a vision for freedom and democracy in the Americas. This project of liberation, she said, lives on in the people who took to the streets on the island on July 11, 2021, to protest against the government. The Cuban regime is on the brink of collapse, and that means a great opportunity for the Cuban people, but it also brings a great deal of suffering, she added in reference to the ongoing economic crisis and increased repression on the island. Despite misery, despite repression, despite the forced exile imposed on millions of Cubans, the Cuban people are still demanding freedom and protesting in the streets because we are convinced that the only way out of the crisis is to get rid of the dictatorship. The night will not be eternal, she said, quoting her father. Rosa Maria Paya, the daughter of Oswaldo Paya; Ofelia Acevedo, his widow, and Sabas Cepero, the father of the late activist Harold Cepero at NEDs 2025 Democracy Service Medal award ceremony. Acevedo recalled how her husbands vision for liberation, rooted in Christian faith, was centered around the idea that people needed to understand they had rights in order to overcome the paralyzing fear that totalitarian regimes instilled in the population. This was not an intellectual path, she added. This is why they silenced his voice, killed his body and that of Harold Cepero. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several speakers including Michael Kozack, the top State Departments official for the Western Hemisphere; former U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez, and Kenneth Wollack, the Vice Chair of the National Endowment for Democracy, recalled their encounters with Paya and the impression he left on them. A humility, a quiet confidence and a sense of faith that made him different, a sense of knowing where he was going, regardless of what was in front of him, regardless of the fear, Martinez said. That Paya secured 25,000 signatures for the Varela Project from Cubans who were willing to attach their names to the petition exemplifies the kind of courage that he instilled in people, Martinez added. Former U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez. Wollack said Paya will be remembered as a founding father of a free and democratic Cuba. He frequently reminded us that the human desire for freedom is universal, he added. He exposed the fiction that democracy can only grow in certain latitudes and the falsehood that liberty must be preceded by prosperity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Awarded by the endowments board of directors, the Democracy Service Medals pay tribute to individuals who have made an exceptional personal contribution to the cause of freedom, human rights and democracy. Notable past recipients include the Dalai Lama, Taiwans former President Tsai Ing-wen, and Polands former president, dissident and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa. Over the years, U.S. policy supporting human rights defenders in Cuba has garnered bipartisan support, as reflected in the lineup of speakers at the event that included senators Ted Cruz, a Republican, and Dick Durbin, a Democrat, as well as Florida Democratic U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Florida U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, a Republican, was scheduled to speak but could not attend. Diaz-Balart and Wasserman Schultz reintroduced a bipartisan bill on Monday that would rename the street in front of the Cuban Embassy in Washington as Oswaldo Paya Way. Cruz and Durbin said they will support a similar measure in the Senate. Support for Cuba democracy programs For different reasons, U.S. support for human rights and democracy in Cuba has been in the spotlight recently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a twist, after pushing the Inter-American Commission for years to complete the investigation into her fathers death, Rosa Maria Paya won a seat on it, after the United States nominated her to serve as a commissioner. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuban American, campaigned on her behalf and praised her in a statement, calling her a voice that would strengthen the Commissions ability to speak out clearly in defense of those facing repression, censorship and abuse. Following her election, Paya vowed to make the human rights situation in Cuba and other countries under dictatorships in the Americas a pressing issue for the commission. The Americas have paid a very high price for tolerating the Cuban regime for so long, she said in a statement after her election. Our region faces profound crises that seriously affect human rights: the crisis in Haiti, millions of forced migrants, increasing violence by non-state actors, and political persecution, often caused or exacerbated by the three dictatorships established on the continent, Paya told the Miami Herald. The Commission can and should realign its priorities to respond to these grave challenges and offer OAS states concrete and actionable recommendations in defense of democracy in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba, whose regime is at the head of the authoritarian octopus affecting the continent. Since taking office, President Donald Trump and Rubio have taken actions to restore what they called a tough Cuba policy, designating Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism and imposing more sanctions on entities controlled by the Cuban military. The State Department has also expanded visa sanctions to officials linked to the Cuban medical official missions abroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To mark the fourth anniversary of the islandwide July 11 uprising in 2021, the State Department imposed visa restrictions on Cubas leader, Miguel Diaz-Canel, and other top officials for what it called their involvement in gross violations of human rights. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also met virtually with Cuban activists in Havana to advocate for political prisoners and support democracy amid heightened diplomatic tensions and Cuban government accusations against the U.S. At the same time, some early cuts to democracy programs in Cuba have created controversy, particularly in Miami, where many of the affected groups operate. Broader administration efforts to reduce U.S. foreign aid and dismantle the Voice of America have impacted several institutions providing support to Cuban activists and independent media, as well as the transmissions of Radio Marti and its website, Marti Noticias. While some of those decisions have been reversed, questions remain about the future of the programs amid ongoing legal battles. A recent State Department reorganization that reduced the size of its Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, known as DRL, has also sparked broader questioning of the administrations commitment to advancing democratic values worldwide. The State Department denies thats the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DRL was not eliminated and many of their Cuba programs remain, a State Department spokesperson said. The State Department undertook a significant and historic reorganization to better align our programs with the America First foreign policy priorities. The reorganization does not signal a retreat from promoting democracy or supporting human rights in Cuba. The spokesperson said the promotion of democracy and human rights in Cuba are top priority for the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Given Diaz-Balarts prominent role in the making of the governments budget as vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee and chairman of the House appropriations subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs it is likely Congress will continue to fund at least some Cuba-related democracy promotion programs. His appropriation bill to fund the State Department and other foreign operations for fiscal year 2026 allocates $40 million to promote democracy and strengthen civil society in Cuba, including supporting political prisoners. It requests $40 million to fund the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, which manages the Marti stations, despite the administration being involved in a legal battle to shut down the offices parent agency, the U.S. Agency for Global Media. The $40 million is part of a $681 million budget for international communication activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department requested only $153 million to enable the orderly shutdown of the agencys operations. Florida Democratic U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz defended the funding of democracy promotion programs during an event in Capitol Hill honoring the late Cuban dissident Oswaldo Paya. Against this background, Wasserman Schultz called on maintaining U.S. support to democracy promotion at Tuesdays event. Solidarity must be matched with action, and thats where the National Endowment for Democracy plays such an essential role, she said. At a time authoritarianism is resurgent, when regimes grow bolder in their censorship, surveillance and suppression, the United States must meet the moment, she said. That means fully funding democracy assistance efforts, protecting NED, its core entities, from short sighted cuts, and that means recognizing support for democracy, not as security, but as strategic necessity, as moral imperative [and] an indispensable component of our national security. Cuts to NEDs funding For NED, the opportunity to highlight its work on supporting pro-democracy and human rights activists in Cuba comes at a time when the organization is trying to make a case to the administration that promoting democratic values worldwide is key to U.S. national interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NED is an independent foundation directly funded by Congress annually. Just around 5% of its funds come from the State Departments foreign assistance budget. Still, the organization was targeted in early efforts by the Trump administration to freeze foreign assistance funds, and for several weeks, the administration withheld NEDs funding, including money directly allocated by Congress. After NED sued the administration, funds were made available again. However, the organization announced in June that it had reduced its workforce by 35% as part of a transformation driven by financial pressures. After a review, the State Department ultimately canceled some of the foreign assistance funds allocated to the endowment, including funds the organization had budgeted for new grants to Cuba-focused organizations this year. That forced NED to cut back on some programs to maintain its support to about 30 Cuban independent media and human rights organizations, a source with knowledge of the cuts said. The State Department did not request a budget for NED, nor did it request money for the agencys democracy fund for the upcoming fiscal year 2026, which starts in October. But Diaz-Balarts chief of staff, Cesar Gonzalez, said Tuesday there is robust funding for the endowment in the State Departments appropriations bill under discussion. Diaz-Balarts bill maintains NEDs funding for fiscal year 2026 at similar levels to previous years, setting aside $315 million for the organization and its core institutes, including approximately $105 million specifically for democracy programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres an additional $345 million democracy fund for the State Department, and instructions for the agency to use $2.3 billion from different budget allocations for democracy programs in adversarial, anti-American countries, countries whose malign activities pose a national security threat to the United States, or countries seeking to strengthen democratic institutions and processes. The bill still needs to be approved by the full House and then the Senate before it is sent to Trump for final approval. Tying the two themes of the night, NEDs president Damon Wilson said that honoring Paya tonight affirms all of our commitment to stand with human people until they are free. So we are so grateful for the congressional support that ensures the American people will continue to stand by those who risk everything for the cause of liberty. This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Legacy Brands International, an investment group led by Friendlys franchisee Amol Kohli, is acquiring Brix Holding Company, the parent company of Friendlys and several other brands, the companies announced Tuesday. Kohli will assume the position of board chair at Brix, while CEO Sherif Mityas will remain in place along with the current leadership team, according to the press release. Existing Brix ownership will continue involvement with the company and become investors in Legacy Brands. Brix will continue growing its brands, which also include Clean Juice, Orange Leaf, Red Mango, Smoothie Factory + Kitchen, Souper Salad, and Humble Donut, and will pursue further acquisitions. Dive Insight: Kohli owns more than 30 Friendlys locations on the East Coast, a significant portion both of Friendlys store system which was about 100 units as of mid-2024 and Brixs roughly 250-unit storebase across all its brands. According to the press release, Kohlis operational experience could help with the expansion of Brix. Backed by Legacy Brands, Brix is pursuing immediate growth for Friendlys in Georgia, the Carolinas and Texas where Brix is headquartered. The press release states that Brixs brands have had a successful run over the last year. The company had positive same-store systemwide sales comps in 2024 and is showing continued momentum across its portfolio of brands heading into the second half of this year. Last year, Mityas told Restaurant Dive that Friendlys sales success in recent quarters was driven by menu changes, significant brand loyalty and a restrained pricing approach. At the time, Mityas said Brix was offering franchising discounts to persuade existing franchisees to build new units and to draw new operators into the system. According to the press release, Brix has awarded eight new franchise agreements so far this year, though the company did not specify which brands had awarded those agreements. Brand acquisitions by franchisees have become a trend in restaurant mergers and acquisitions in recent years. Thrive Restaurant Group bought out Modern Market Eatery last year after signing a major franchising agreement with the brand. Sun Holdings, a Burger King franchisee, has built up a multi-brand platform in other restaurant segments and recently acquired Uncle Julios. Earlier this year, two franchisees bought a significant chunk of Hooters storebase during Chapter 11 proceedings and also assumed responsibility for much of the brands franchisee support. CUMBERLAND, R.I. (WPRI) The co-owner of a Cumberland restaurant was arrested earlier this month, accused of sexually assaulting a minor, according to police. Assad Awan, 27, of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, was taken into custody July 11 while boarding an international flight at JFK International Airport in New York. Assad Awan Police said Awan is one of the owners of Anis Pizza and Seafood on High Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was wanted by Cumberland police on charges including two counts each of first-degree domestic sexual assault, domestic assault by strangulation, domestic simple assault/battery, and domestic disorderly conduct. Police said the victim was a juvenile at the time of the alleged assaults, which occurred earlier this year. Awan and the victim reportedly knew each other. Awan was extradited to Rhode Island over the weekend and arraigned Monday. He is currently being held without bail at the ACI. The outcome of this investigation produced the safe and timely apprehension of an individual believed to be responsible for vile and despicable criminal conduct with a juvenile, Cumberland Police Chief Matthew Benson said in a statement. We are also grateful for the courage and fortitude of the victim in this case to come forward and report this situation, so this individual is not able to do this to anyone else, ever again. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Cyreia Sandlin - Sandlin WISN Cyreia Sandlin is leaving WISN in Milwaukee after three years. What an incredible journey it's been here! I am beyond grateful for my co-workers who welcomed me to this station three years ago with open arms. My managers have supported my growth every step of the way, Sandlin posted on social media. Working with and learning from the best anchors, reporters, producers, photojournalists and production crew has been an amazing experience. I will miss my colleagues dearly! Sandlin promised there was more to come on what's next for her soon. She joined the ABC affiliate in July 2022 as anchor of the stations 5, 6 and 10 p.m. Saturday newscasts, and 5:30 and 10 p.m. Sunday newscasts. Authorities are investigating the death of a man who was pulled from the water off a town in southeastern Massachusetts on Tuesday. Officers responding to a 911 call for a possible drowning in the area of Seaview Avenue in Fairhaven just after 5 p.m. found an unconscious man on a boat ramp, according to the Bristol District Attorneys Office. The victim, identified as 77-year-old Wayne Silveira, of Acushnet, was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators noted that Silveiras death isnt suspicious. Troopers assigned to the DAs Office are assisting Fairhaven police with the investigation. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW KANSAS CITY, Mo. Kansas City firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman was on the job when a patient, his patient, stabbed and killed him, according to investigators. When he died, it seemed as though the whole city went into mourning. Two months later, another medic came under attack, bitten on his stomach in the back of an ambulance. More recently, according to a probable cause affidavit from a Kansas City detective, on July 6, a man off his medications threatened to kill himself and tried to assault two paramedics and a Kansas City police officer as they rode to a hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man finds discarded ashes of 17 people sitting outside shut-down Kansas City funeral home Court papers say the man also allegedly spat into one of their faces saying, I have AIDS. Afterward, the accused, Eric Brown, was charged with felony harassment. These incidents are not isolated, and theyre not uncommon. A 2024 overview, Understanding Violence Against EMS, found that 80% of EMS workers reported a work-related physical assault. Its not only first responders at risk, but frontline workers, too, including doctors, nurses, and hospital staff. A fact sheet from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Workplace Violence in Healthcare, shows that between 2011 and 2018, injuries intentionally caused to healthcare workers per year rose from 8,180 to 15,230. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KC firefighters death highlights rise in violence against health care workers nationwide Despite this, emergency room nurse Sarah Cooper tries to go into work each day with a fresh mindset. Driving into work today. Got my water bottle. Got my food. Do I have my energy drinks? asked Cooper on her 30-minute commute downtown. Shes learned to have a short-term memory about parts of her job, because some days are more difficult than others. Even last night I had someone chuck a full urinal at me because I wouldnt give them pain medicine, said Cooper. Ive been choked, slapped, hit, bit. I mean, people chuck food at you, cuss at you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download WDAF+ for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV Before Cooper became a nurse, she was an EMT, out in the field, just like Hoffman. Could it have been me? Could it have been my coworker? said Cooper. Hoffmans tragedy reignited local conversations about the dangers of being a first responder. A recent report by the American Hospital Association found that workplace violence cost U.S. hospitals more than $18 billion in 2023. Broken down, $3.6 billion went to preventing violence. Hospitals spent the majority of that money, $14.7 billion, on coping with its aftermath. More needs to be done, said Jill Kleithermes, executive director of the Missouri Nurses Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri Kleithermes said theyre working with local and state lawmakers and law enforcement to reduce workplace violence. The reports arent taken as often as if you were assaulted in a Walmart, said Kleithermes. She said she believes change will happen with more security, training, and accountability. Earlier this week, two US senators proposed the Graham Hoffman Act. If it passes, the law will increase criminal consequences to include federal charges for those who attack first responders. Read More Problem Solvers stories Cooper said shed like to see policy change that also empowers staff like herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Creating policies that, unless this is a life-threatening condition, this isnt going to be tolerated. Having that authority to have a say, No, no, no. I get to have a say in how you treat me, said Cooper. She said she knows setting that boundary could sound harsh, but on days where she finishes a shift and it goes smoothly, she said shes reminded of how her job should be. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAVANNAH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) A former Savannah police officer pleaded guilty to animal abuse following the death of a police K9 last summer. Police K9 Horus died on June 20, 2024, after completing an overnight shift in Savannah. Kansas City International Airport reported a high of 88 degrees Fahrenheit at 3:53 p.m. on June 20. In his written plea, former officer Daniel Ziegler wrote, On or about 6/20/2024 in Andrew Co. MO. I had in my custody K9 Officer Horus. I knowingly failed to provide adequate care to the animal, which resulted in substantial harm to the animal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ziegler pleaded guilty on Friday, July 18, during a hearing at the Clay County Courthouse. Ziegler received a suspended imposition of sentence (SIS) and two years of court-supervised probation. He also had to pay $5,000 to the victim compensation fund. According to a probable cause statement from the Missouri Attorney Generals Office, Daniel Zeigler and his K-9 Partner, Horus, completed their overnight shift at 4:50 a.m., according to an Andrew County Dispatch Log. Zeigler later contacted Savannah Police Chief Dave Vincent at 5:54 p.m. and informed him that K-9 Horus was dead. Vincent responded to Zeiglers residence and found K-9 Horus deceased. Chief Vincent said K-9 Horus had been left in the Savannah Police K-9 vehicle following the end of their shift and had died of heat exposure, the probable cause statement said. Jul. 23---- The man who turned himself into law enforcement after stating he had shot his wife an act allegedly witnessed by their two children pleaded guilty Monday to murder. Kayla Demarais, 29, was shot and killed Dec. 28, 2023, in the family home. Bryan William Demarais, 35, of , pleaded guilty in Meeker County District Court to second-degree murder for killing her and also to two felony counts of child endangerment. Attorneys first spent more than 25 minutes in court chambers on Monday to finalize a plea agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In exchange for his plea, prosecutors agreed to drop their motion seeking a longer prison term than provided by Minnesota sentencing guidelines an aggravated departure. They will argue instead for 367 months, more than 30 years, which is the maximum in the discretionary range to which Demarais could be sentenced. Lawyers for Demarais will argue for the presumptive 306 months of prison. When Demarais pleaded guilty Monday, all three were entered as Norgaard pleas the term used when defendants claim a loss of memory regarding the circumstances of the crime, but also acknowledge that they are not innocent and acknowledge that evidence presented at trial would result in a guilty verdict. Demarais called 911 on Dec. 28, 2023, to report that he shot his wife, saying "come get her" and telling the dispatcher that two children were still inside the home. According to the aggravated departure motion filed by Meeker County Attorney Brandi Schiefelbein, prosecutors allege that Demarais shot Kayla Demarais in front of the couple's two children. According to court documents, testimony from the two children would have corroborated that allegation, as one of the children apparently saw Demarais load the gun and then heard the first shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, both children stated in interviews with investigators that they heard their mom call for help and saw her fall to the ground after Bryan Demarais fired the first gunshot. Bryan Demarais told the two children to stay in their bedroom and close the door, advising he would call 911. The children reported hearing additional gunshots before Demarais called police. Both told detectives that they were scared and at first thought that someone else was attempting to break into their home, according to the complaint. Before the guilty pleas were entered for the record, Schiefelbein noted that prosecuting attorneys had met with both of the children and Kayla's family before moving forward with the plea agreement. Schiefelbein said the most important thing for Kayla's family was that Bryan Demarais admit in court that he killed Kayla. Schiefelbein also noted the state was prepared to call 15 witnesses in total and enter more than 100 exhibits of evidence at trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the hearing Monday, Demarais went over with Judge Stephanie Beckman the events that he could recall from that day. He said he suffers from a sleep disorder but was not taking medication at the time. He woke up around 6:30 a.m. About an hour later, he felt his wife's phone buzz as the two were lying in bed. He said that he read text messages on the phone and he said they showed Kayla was having an affair. Demarais told the court that he and his wife began arguing with each other, then he got dressed to go to work. He said Kayla had followed him the entire time to "keep the argument going" before he said good-bye to his kids and went to work. Demarais said that he did not remember much between when he left and when he got to his workplace in Hutchinson, only recalling that he had made a call to a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs office shortly before he began work, apparently to have his wife Kayla removed as his primary caregiver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demarais said that shortly after he began working, the entire right side of his body started going numb and he was having a hard time controlling his arm something previously identified as a stress/anxiety response for him, he said Monday. According to the criminal complaint, Demarais suffers from anxiety, a sleep disorder and other medical issues which can cause short-term memory loss. He told Judge Beckman on Monday that he knows he talked to his manager about not being able to work that day but again could not recall much between the time he was advised to go home and the time he arrived back at his residence near Dassel. Demarais said he and Kayla then began arguing again. He told Judge Beckman the last thing he could recall was grabbing a .22-caliber rifle that was stored above the washing machine in the home. He told the court that he was attempting to remove the firearm from the home, but said he could not recall anything that had happened after the firearm was in his hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Beckman stated the Midwest Medical Examiner's autopsy results determined that the cause of death for Kayla Demarais was multiple gunshot wounds, specifically four shots to the head. Evidence presented at trial would have determined the fact that Demarais was the one who fired the rifle. Demarais acknowledged the determination, simply stating "correct." A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 29. Demarais remains in custody of the Meeker County Jail, where he has been held since turning himself in. Sometimes you need a little serendipity to set a new all-time weather record. On July 23, 2010, 15 years ago today, a supercell thunderstorm spawned a brief tornado and an 85-mph wind gust near Vivian, South Dakota, about 30 miles south of the state capital, Pierre. But it was the hail this supercell produced that etched this storm into U.S. history. One resident of Vivian saved several of the giant hailstones in a freezer after they pelted his property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meteorologists from the National Weather Service in Aberdeen, South Dakota, later visited the Vivian resident and measured the largest of these stones to be a whopping 8 inches in diameter and 1.9375 pounds, both new U.S. records, topping the previous record from Sept. 3, 1970, in Coffeyville, Kansas. (WATCH: Flash Flood Floats New Mexico Business) It's hard for a single photo to illustrate how mammoth this hail was. The Vivian hailstone was almost as wide as a typical ball your child might use on the playground and roughly as heavy as a hammer. Now picture those stones falling at speeds over 100 mph, and you might imagine the damage they caused. The hail left large divots in grass and punched a hole through the deck of the Vivian home. And because the severe thunderstorm knocked out power at the home, the record hailstone melted somewhat between when it was first found and when the NWS meteorologists measured it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Vivian hailstone is also the heaviest on record in the Western Hemisphere, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The heaviest hailstone anywhere on Earth weighed 2.25 pounds in the Gopalganj district of Bangladesh on April 14, 1986. Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Daycare teachers accused of abuse given deal to avoid prosecution, parents say A judge recused herself from a case involving preschool teachers accused of abusing toddlers at Parker Chase Preschool in Roswell. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The case has been contentious, with families of the alleged victims expressing outrage over a deal they said was offered by the Fulton County District Attorneys office to two defendants, allowing pretrial diversion instead of prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney Ashley Mitchell, representing five of the victims families, accused the DAs office of misrepresentations and violating the Georgia victims bill of rights, known as Marcys Law. The families said they were shocked to learn the DA had offered pretrial diversion to two teachers facing felony cruelty to children charges. Parents of a 2-year-old seen on video being roughly handled inside the preschool expressed their anger, saying they felt lied to by the DAs office. In a court filing, the Fulton County DAs office responded to accusations by stating families are pressuring the court to obtain a different outcome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout this case, there has been a consistent pattern of misrepresenting facts, distorting the record, and rejection of the law, the DAs office filing stated. Parents Lynsey and Ryan Atkinson voiced concerns that pretrial diversion, typically for low-level, nonviolent offenses, could allow the teachers to avoid serious felony charges and potentially work in daycare again. The DAs office has stated that they cannot comment on the pending case, but generally, prosecutors may agree to pretrial diversion if they believe they cannot prove charges in front of a jury. Specific conditions can be set, one of them being they can no longer work in specific industries. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Brunner Literacy Center (BLC) is hosting Food for Thought, a literacy rally, this Thursday. The rally will feature a resource fair and multiple delicious food trucks at 1995 Shiloh Springs Rd. It will be held on July 24, from noon to 4 p.m. BLC does vital work within the Miami Valley and provides free tutoring to adults who want to learn to read or those who need help with reading. It has four program areas: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adult Basic Education , which teaches an adult student starting anywhere and brings them up to a sixth-grade reading level. GED Prep , these classes prepare students for the GED exam. They cover the four subject areas for the test which is seventh through senior-year-level math, social studies, reading, and science. Continuing Education , these classes prep students for education / work beyond a high school level. English Language Learning, these classes are for people who want to speak English as a second language. There is also preparation for U.S. citizenship martials available for students who would like to learn more about it. Dayton library holds Disability Pride Month event for the ADA anniversary According to the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, approximately 130 million adults in the U.S. lack proficiency in literacy, meaning they can not read above a sixth-grade level. This is approximately 55 percent of the entire national population. Ohio itself ranks 23 out of the 50 states. Here, approximately 18 percent of adults have low literacy/are functionally illiterate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Unfortunately, this data is from the last National Assessment for Adult Literacy, which was in 2003. It is highly probable the number has grown higher within the last 22 years.) If you or someone you love struggles with reading, you are not alone. The BLC has served over 2,000 students within the last 14 years. Help is available, click here to learn more. Coming up soon, the center will host a spelling bee at the main branch of the Dayton Metro Library. It will be on Tuesday, Sept. 16, and run from 5:30 p.m. to 8 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 WDTN.com. (Reuters) -Businesses making everything from chips to steel reported downbeat results on Wednesday, with U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war inflicting damage even as Japan's deal lifted stocks and hopes that Europe can clinch a similar agreement. Asian and European stock markets rallied as investors cheered a trade agreement between the United States and Japan, which lowers tariffs on auto imports and spares Tokyo punishing new levies on other goods. The news stirred hopes for a deal with the European Union ahead of the August 1 deadline set by the Trump administration. [MKTS/GLOB] But results from Texas Instruments and steelmaker SSAB showed how chaotic U.S. trade policy has already hurt profits, adding to costs, upending supply chains and weighing on consumer confidence. Texas Instruments' quarterly earnings report pointed to weaker-than-expected demand for its analogue chips from some customers and underscored tariff-related uncertainty. Chipmakers such as Texas Instruments are not yet directly facing Trump's elevated tariffs, but the cost of chip-making tools has risen, and some of their end customers have pared back spending. Late on Tuesday, Dutch computer chip equipment maker ASM International warned that order intake from chipmakers had been "lumpy" in the second quarter. Its shares fell 8.5% on Wednesday. "Tariffs are hitting home," said Neil Wilson, investment strategist at Saxo Markets. Investors across the world are bracing for a slew of earnings this week that they hope will provide a window into how companies are navigating a torrent of challenges - from tariffs and regulatory changes to currency fluctuations, fickle consumer spending, higher prices, global conflicts and volatile oil prices. As the second-quarter earnings season progresses, companies have reported a combined loss of $6.6 billion to $7.8 billion between July 16 and 22 for the full year, with the automotive, aerospace and pharmaceutical sectors being hurt the most by the tariffs. General Motors accounted for a big chunk as it reiterated on Tuesday its expectation of a $4 billion to $5 billion hit from tariffs for 2025. Late on Tuesday, Finland's Nokia blamed tariff headwinds and the weaker U.S. dollar as it lowered its guidance for 2025. For Swedish steelmaker SSAB, the biggest issue is that tariffs are causing more shipments of cheap steel to be redirected to Europe, CEO Johnny Sjostrom told Reuters on Wednesday. "The turbulence of tariffs and trade barriers resulted in increased uncertainty," he said in a statement, with the largest impact seen in the weakening European steel market. Prior coverage shown above. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A man has been charged with murder after a fatal shooting earlier this month. The Montgomery County Prosecutors Office has announced 27-year-old Damarez Jones has been indicted on charges in connection to the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Paul Body on July 8. Officers were dispatched to the area of North Main Street and Ernst Avenue just before midnight on July 8 on reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Body shot dead in a car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say Jones asked for a ride to pick up his phone from Body, who was his uncle. When the ride arrived, Jones and Body got into an argument. Police say Jones fatally shot Body from the backseat and fled the scene. The Montgomery County Grand Jury has indicted Jones on the following charges: 2 counts of murder 2 counts of felonious assault 2 counts of tampering with evidence 1 count of discharge of a firearm on or near prohibited premises 3 counts of having weapons under disability, prior offense of violence All counts of murder and assault carry three-year firearm specifications. Jones is currently in Montgomery County Jail on a $1 million bond. He is set to be arraigned on July 29. Advertisement 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 WDTN.com. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Dayton Police Department is asking for help identifying a woman it alleges stole multiple items on Saturday, July 19. The DPD did not share which store the woman allegedly stole from. However, it said she threatened an employee with physical violence before leaving with the stolen items. Dayton police seek public help in hit-and-run vehicle search Photo via Dayton Police Department. Photo via Dayton Police Department. Photo via Dayton Police Department. Photo via Dayton Police Department. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Hall at 937-333-1230 or Miami Valley Crime Stoppers at 937-222-STOP. Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips. Advertisement 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 WDTN.com. CORRECTION: The DPD sent an update specifying that these calls came in on the non-emergency line. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Dayton Police Department has shared further information on previous calls to the home of Hershall Creachbaum, Jr., the 7-year-old boy who was reported missing and discovered dead ten days ago. DPD shared information with 2 NEWS on three phone calls from the 400 block of Xenia Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers made a welfare check on Thursday, April 3, 2025, after 2:30 p.m. No one was home, but officials said the officers contacted Childrens Services and learned there was already an open case. Coroner: New details into 7-year-old boys death On the next day, Friday, April 4, 2025, before 2:30 p.m., officers were again dispatched for a welfare check. They made contact with the family and noted the kids were okay. They also reported the house had food, water and electricity. Later, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, after 8:30 p.m., officers were again dispatched for a welfare check. However, the caller canceled the call, declining police or medics, prior to officers arriving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recently, 2 NEWS obtained the preliminary autopsy report from the Montgomery County Coroners Office for Creachbaums death. The office is still waiting for a positive ID from an anthropological exam. This can determine when he died, how he died and confirm his identity fully. Creachbaums mother and her boyfriend, Ashley Johnson and Michael Kendrick, are facing charges allegedly related to the young boys death. Montgomery County released a statement on social media at approximately 5:10 p.m. on Wednesday, saying in part that it can not confirm nor deny if Childrens Services had a case in for this family. Photo via Montgomery County. Childrens Services standard of operation in cases like these is not to share any comment. 2 NEWS is following this case closely. Hershall Creachbaum Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Office of the D.C. Auditor (ODCA) issued its third and final report regarding the Metropolitan Police Departments (MPD) investigation into the use of deadly force, using the Oct. 23, 2020, death of 20-year-old Karon Hylton-Brown as a case study. His death led to criminal charges and convictions against MPD Officer Terence Sutton and Lt. Andrew Zabavsky. Shortly after their convictions, President Donald Trump pardoned both of them just days into his second term. Rather than being terminated, they were reinstated. Sutton received a 25-day suspension, while Zabavsky was allowed to retire with back pay and a $2,500 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED COVERAGE: Answer the question: Mother demands answers after Trump-pardoned DC police officers convicted in her sons death are reinstated The ODCAs review of Hylton-Browns case is the last in its series of reviews conducted since 2018 involving the deaths of young Black men caused by MPD members, auditors Michael R. Bromwich, Michael G. Scavelli, Ida Adibi and Lisa Arnold noted. In this case, writes Bromwich, the buck was dropped. What the audit found The report assessed MPDs internal review of Sutton and Zabavskys actions that October night, finding the two violated MPD policy on vehicle pursuits and false statements [recommending] termination for both individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police Chief Pamela A. Smith declined to do so and had not provided an explanation for rejecting the findings as of the Auditors July 2025 report. Not only did Chief Smith reject her departments discipline recommendation but here also rejects each recommendation to strengthen MPD policies, process, and training on use of force, the report read. In a letter addressed to D.C. Councilmembers and Chairman Phil Mendelson, Auditor Kathleen Patterson claimed the current chief and Mayor Muriel Bowsers office appear to have backed away from previous commitments to improve use of force investigations. REALTED COVERAGE: Metropolitan Police Department reinstates 2 Trump-pardoned officers after murder conviction, cover up Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The audit was compiled by Pattersons office and an Independent Review Team, including Bromwich (The Bromwich Group LLC), Scavelli, Adibi and Arnold (all from Steptoe LLP). The DC Police Union issued a scathing rebuke of the Auditors report. Chairman Gregg Pemberton issued a statement calling it a politically motivated, baseless attack on the integrity of MPD officers and the law enforcement profession. The chairman went so far as to call for the Office of the DC Auditor to be defunded altogether. It is nothing more than a corrupt backstop for the D.C. Council to justify their radical political positions, Pemberton stated, in part. What happened in the Karon Hylton-Brown case? On Oct. 23, 2020, at about 10:11 p.m., 20-year-old Hylton-Brown was struck by a car while he was riding a moped in the Brightwood neighborhood. He was struck by a Toyota as he emerged from an alley neither the driver of the car nor Hylton-Brown had a chance to avoid impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He died several hours later at a nearby hospital. In the minutes before the crash, Hylton-Brown was pursued by two MPD cruisers, driven by Officer Sutton and Lt. Zabavsky, Suttons supervisor. A year-long investigation into the MPD members led to their indictment by a federal grand jury on charges arising from Hylton-Browns death. They were both charged in connection with what the U.S. Attorneys Office (USAO) claimed was a cover-up following the crash. The two men were later convicted by a D.C. jury, which ruled Sutton was guilty of second-degree murder, while both Sutton and Zabavsky were guilty of obstruction of justice. The former was sentenced to just over five years in prison, while Zabavsky was sentenced to four years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before serving any jail time, however, and just two days after his inauguration, Trump issued full and unconditional pardons to the two officers. RELATED COVERAGE: Family, friends gather for Karon Hylton-Browns funeral The ODCA launched an audit into MPDs internal investigation into the incident and the subsequent steps in the departments administrative process. Auditors evaluated the departments review of the evidence and its assessments of whether the actions of the officers involved that fateful night were compliant with existing law, MPD policy and best policing practices. Screenshot of the Office of the D.C. Auditors recommendations in its July 2025 report. ODCAs recommendations The report issued 11 recommendations to the department, ranging from policy changes and training to recommendations made specifically for the Chief of Police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One recommendation instructs MPD to create a policy explicitly prohibiting obstruction of internal or criminal investigations. MPD does not currently have policies that specifically prohibit obstruction , the Audit states. Three of the recommendations are addressed to the chief herself, calling for her to familiarize herself with the record in high-profile cases, to provide a memo listing the reasons behind her disciplinary decisions and to provide an explanation in cases where disciplinary recommendations are substantially reduced. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Trump pardons two former DC officers convicted in 2020 murder case The latter point relates to Chief Smith not terminating Sutton and Zabavsky, as recommended by the Internal Affairs Division and Force Investigation Team. MPDs response to the pardons and Chief Smiths statements about them failed to address legitimate concerns about a lack of accountability. When what followed were settlements negotiated with Sutton and Zabavsky that were extremely lenient and not explained publicly, it further undermined the accountability and transparency that are so important for any major city police department in maintaining trust with the community. Page 11 of the ODCA report Smith, in her response, wrote, I acknowledge and respect that others feel strongly regarding these cases, but I am confident I made the correct decision based on the totality of the circumstances, including the information the jury was not permitted to hear, my experience in law enforcement, and comparable administrative cases. I reject the audits findings and recommendations. Chief Pamela A. Smiths response Included in the report was a 17-page letter dated July 9 from Smith to Auditor Patterson, her formal response to the offices draft report on the Hylton-Brown case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We hoped that, consistent with past audits, the audit would present a balanced, impartial review and best-practice recommendations for the MPD to implement. Unfortunately, the audit failed to meet these expectations as detailed below, Smith wrote. At its core, Smith says the audit challenged MPDs disagreement with the jurys findings in the criminal cases involving Sutton and Sabavsky. The department reached a different conclusion because it had access to information the jury did not, she noted. For example, she said the jury was prohibited from hearing about Hylton-Browns extensive and violent criminal history, claiming that he was a gang member, wearing an ankle monitor at the time of the incident and carrying over $3,000. These facts, in addition to Mr. Hylton-Browns flight from police and the numerous traffic violations they observed him commit, provided a legal basis for the members to conduct a Terry stop. Instead, the jury was left with the incorrect impression that the police were solely attempting to stop Mr. Hylton-Brown, because he was not wearing a helmet, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED COVERAGE: DC police officers sentenced in unauthorized chase that ended in fatal crash and subsequent cover-up Smith claimed the obstruction of justice charges and second-degree murder charge did not stand up to scrutiny and were unsupported by the undisputed facts of the case. She said the audit ignored the legal effect of Trumps pardon on MPDs ability to pursue the originally recommended discipline including termination. She also noted that this was an unprecedented prosecution. Police pursuits are part of law enforcement operations nationwide, and in some cases have led to tragic outcomes. Yet no law enforcement officer in any other jurisdiction had ever been criminally prosecuted for murder as the result of a pursuit before this case, Smith wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither officer could have imagined their actions would be criminal since no officer had been prosecuted for engaging in similar operations, she argued. In response to the July 9 letter, the auditors wrote, It is difficult to understand why MPD would not remain open to enhancing a process it has already acknowledged as valuable in reviewing uses of force. We respectfully urge you to set aside any objections to our criticism of your disciplinary decisions and to reconsider the recommendations in our report. These recommendations are intended to advance a shared goal: ensuring that MPD continues to serve as a model police force for the rest of the country, their response continued. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A Special Police Officer (SPO) admitted in court Tuesday that she violated an arrestees rights while assigned to a Northeast D.C. McDonalds two years ago. The U.S. Attorneys Office (USAO) said Brigette O. Robertson could face up to one year in prison after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor count of violating constitutional rights. According to court documents, Robertson was assigned to the McDonalds in the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue NE, vested with police powers and responsible for providing security services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just after 11:30 a.m., a patron started a disturbance and was asked to leave. DC Public Library responds after fireworks set off inside facility Robertson and the woman then exchanged words and started to physically fight. An employee called the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) for help. By the time the officer arrived, Robertson had sprayed the woman with Mace and had one of her wrists in handcuffs. The MPD officer took control of the woman, who was lying on her back. She began experiencing the effects of being sprayed with the irritant while Robertson began collecting her belongings. A few minutes later, Robertson stepped over the woman and stomped on her face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MPD officer intervened and the woman experienced bodily injury from the stomp, including bleeding and pain, the USAO noted. Court documents said the stomp was unnecessary and not justified, and not made in self-defense. Robertson is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 21, where she could serve up to a year in prison or pay a fine of up to $100,000. 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Left to right: NM Democratic U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich and U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez during a news conference in Santa Fe during the 2025 legislative session. All three the week of July 21 called out the Trump administration for budget decisions and more impacting the state. New Mexicos congressional delegation had words many for President Donald Trumps administration this week. On Wednesday, New Mexico Democratic U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan wrote to Trump with detailed concerns about proposed reductions in the 2026 Fiscal Year budget for the Department of Energy, including a 14% reduction to the Office of Science; a 74% reduction to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; and a 57% budget cut to the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These proposed changes jeopardize not only our nations economic competitiveness, Lujan wrote, but also our national security, energy independence, and capacity for innovation. The cuts to the Office of Science and EERE, he continued, will have an immediate and destabilizing impact threatening the continuation of critical research programs, leading to the loss of thousands of skilled jobs. Moreover, the budget cuts, Lujan contended, will scale back fellowships, internships and research grants that support tens of thousands of graduate and postdoctoral researchers, while also impeding the national laboratories critical role in translating federal research into commercial success. ARPA-E, specifically, Lujan wrote, has funded over 1,000 high-risk projects, resulted in over 700 patents, and attracted over $12 billion in follow-on private investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter cited work at both Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Laboratory clean rooms and GenBank, respectively as examples of the groundbreaking innovation coming out of the national labs in New Mexico, before urging the president to reconsider these reductions and restore full funding for DOE research and innovation programs. Fellow Democratic U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, ranking member on the U.S. Energy and Natural Resources Committee, also registered significant concerns about the proposed budget last month during hearings. Heinrich: Trump administration violating treaty obligations Heinrich on Wednesday also levied criticism at the Trump administration in response to reports of the deleterious effects Trumps executive order promoting efficiency has had on Gallup Indian Medical Center. Stat News reported that executive order spurred a new approval process for contracts that has subsequently created a bottleneck leading directly or indirectly to delays in care and losses in medical services and personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his statement, Heinrich said he was appalled at GIMACs dismal state. Despite the truly heroic work being done by providers there, burdensome and unnecessary red tape inflicted by the Trump Administration has caused this already overburdened hospital to cut down on essential services, he said, adding that his office had received numerous reports that the facility had slashed the number of beds available and scaled back maternal care. Thats not okay. If expectant mothers need an ultrasound or experience pregnancy complications overnight, they shouldnt have to be flown to another facility to receive basic medical services. But that is the state of care right now. Heinrich called on Trump to take immediate action to repeal [Department of Government Efficiency] policies that are crushing this hospital, noting that GIMAC needs federal investment in a new location, not policies that are nearly bringing its operations to a halt. The Trump administrations actions, Heinrich concluded, are a blatant and unacceptable violation of treaty obligations and must end now. U.S. Forest Service failing to restore trust Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, who represents New Mexicos 3rd Congressional District, this week sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz about the Laguna Fire burning approximately 25 miles west of Abiquiu, which, as of Wednesday, had grown to nearly 17,000 acres. The Santa Fe National Forest on June 30 announced that lightning caused the 176-acre fire and said the agency would actively manage the blaze. On July 12, the agency said a spot fire had ignited outside of containment lines the day prior. Before the spot fire escaped, the fire had reached about 12,000 acres and was 87% contained. In her letter, Leger Fernandez contended that the fire is currently destroying thousands of acres of the Santa Fe National Forest and has killed and maimed the livestock of local ranchers in Rio Arriba County. Moreover, in the aftermath of events such as the controlled burn that led to the devastating Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fire, communities in northern New Mexico have completely lost trust in the agencys wildfire decision-making, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leger Fernandezs letter also included a list of questions to Schultz, including why a strategy of full containment wasnt a top priority; whether Forest Service staff reductions had influenced the agencys response to the fire; what type of communication the Forest Service had occurred with local ranchers whose cattle grazed in the fire area; and what type of compensation would be available to those ranchers who had lost livestock. She concluded by citing a May 2022 letter she wrote to the agencys previous Forest Service Chief Randy Moore in which she expressed concern about the prospects of another fire resulting from a prescribed burn and the level at which USFS engages with the local community when planning these events. That letter was written in the aftermath of Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon the largest wildfire in New Mexicos history. I hoped that the Forest Service could make strides in the long process of restoring the communitys trust, Leger Fernandez wrote this week to Schultz. This incident indicates the Forest Service is failing. Melina Frattolin, the 9-year-old Montreal girl allegedly murdered by her father in upstate New York, drowned in a homicide, state police said Tuesday. Asphyxia due to drowning was ruled her official cause of death, with final autopsy results pending. Melinas father, 45-year-old Luciano Frattolin, pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges of second-degree murder and concealing a human corpse. He remains in custody at a county jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pair had embarked on a father-daughter vacation trip from Canada on July 11, police said Monday in announcing the charges. After touring around with stops in Connecticut, New York City and elsewhere, theyd been due back in Montreal on Sunday. Her parents were estranged, and Melina lived full-time with her mother, who knew about the trip, Lt. Robert McConnell of the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation said at a press conference. The girl and her father were seen on surveillance video around 5:30 p.m. Saturday in Saratoga Springs, about 35 miles north of Albany. An hour later, Melina told her mother by phone that they were on their way back to Canada. Everything seemed fine, police said, with no indication that the girl was under duress. At around 10 p.m., Frattolin called 911 to report that Melina had been kidnapped. He initially said he pulled over to relieve himself near Exit 22 of I-87 by Lake George, and returned to the car to find his daughter gone and see a white van speeding south. However, his story changed in a subsequent interview in which he said two men had forced her into a white van. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Warren County Sheriffs Office issued an Amber Alert but rescinded it a few hours later when Frattolins kidnapping claim began unraveling after they found no evidence of an abduction, or even of a van. Police launched an extensive search in Ticonderoga, about 30 miles north of Lake George, where forest rangers found the girls body hidden under a log in the shallow end of a pond just before 2 p.m. Sunday. Melinas death rattled the community, a historic hamlet of just under 5,000 near the Vermont border, while reports emerged in Canada about financial troubles for Frattolin, and sketchy business deals. Ticonderoga residents held a vigil Tuesday night to shine our light on Melinas young life that was tragically cut short, organizer Bridgett Cruz wrote on Facebook, saying she had woken up with an urge to honor the girl. Ticonderoga will forever be her souls resting place, Cruz said. I want to honor her life and let her know we will be her light in this dark time. With News Wire Services Hundreds of protestors blocked the roads near Chords Bridge with signs saying "Death before conscription," and "War on the draft law." Haredi demonstrators against the haredi draft law threw bottles at police and assaulted them, forcing Jerusalem traffic to grind to a halt on Wednesday. Hundreds of protestors blocked the roads near Chords Bridge with signs saying "Enlistment = Genocide," "Death before conscription," and "War on the draft law." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protest was declared an "illegal gathering and a violation of public order" by the Israel Police. Entry and exit to the Israeli capital have been blocked for vehicle traffic as forces work to restore order. "The police will not allow disruption of public order, road blockages, or any violation of the law that could endanger public safety or disrupt the daily lives of road users," the police said in a statement. Sections along Highway 4 have also been shut down due to the protests, and police have been working to maintain order as haredi rioters yelled insults including "Nazis," "terrorists," and "butchers." Haredi protestors block the entrance to Jerusalem, July 23, 2025. (CREDIT: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The police were compelled to use force and employed measures to disperse the protest. In the process, two individuals were arrested for attacking police officers and civilians. Additionally, a police vehicle was vandalized with stickers," the police stated. Cause of the protests The protest was sparked after three haredi men were arrested on Tuesday during a demonstration against the desecration of a burial ground in Yehud, Israeli media reported. The men were later transferred to military police after authorities discovered that they had ignored IDF conscription orders. The future of the haredi draft bill has remained uncertain since the departure of the Knesset's two haredi parties from the government, Degel Hatorah and Shas. (WJW)- Five men from Mississippi have been ordered to pay nearly $120,000 in restitution and have also received a temporary worldwide hunting ban after being accused of poaching white-tailed deer. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the crime spree took place over four years in southern Illinois. The men are accused of using spotlights to scout deer, then shooting to kill, and later returning to collect the carcass. Rare mosquito-borne virus confirmed in Northeast Ohio Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was not an isolated incident of unlawful hunting; rather, it was a calculated, multi-year operation that exploited Illinoiss prized wildlife resources for personal gain, said Assistant Director Douglas Ault, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement in a press release. Targeting trophy deer under the cover of night, across multiple counties, and transporting them across state lines reflects a deliberate disregard for wildlife laws and the ecological balance we work tirelessly to protect. Petition aims to eliminate Ohio property taxes According to a press release, all five defendants received a world-wide hunting ban for the length of their probations. Further sentencing details are below: Lee J. Johnson, 54, of Saucier, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful transport of wildlife in violation of the Lacey Act and was sentenced to probation for five years, including 12 months of home detention and location monitoring. Johnson was also ordered to pay $75,000 in restitution and a $10,000 fine. Steven J. Pique, 56, of Biloxi, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, was sentenced to probation for five years and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. Gerald B. Moran, 40, of Saucier, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful transport of wildlife in violation of the Lacey Act, was sentenced to probation for five years and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution, as well as a $2,500 fine. Joshua A. Marshall, 30, of Saucier, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful transport of wildlife in violation of the Lacey Act, was sentenced to probation for three years and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution, as well as a $2,500 fine. John M. Pritchard, 57, of Biloxi, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful transport of wildlife in violation of the Lacey Act, was sentenced to probation for five years and ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution, as well as a $5,000 fine. Advertisement 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. Kathryn Millwee holds a poster of Kilmar Abrego Garcia at the Fred Thompson Federal Courthouse in Nashville, Tennessee. Photograph by John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout 2025 A federal judge in Nashville ruled Wednesday that Kilmar Abrego Garcia must be released from criminal custody in Tennessee pending trial on human smuggling charges. The order came shortly after a Maryland court, in a separate case, blocked Immigration and Customs Enforcement from immediately taking Abrego into custody once released in Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The twin court orders represent a victory for Abrego and his attorneys, who have been fighting for his right to pretrial release in Tennessee while also seeking legal safeguards to prevent Trump administration officials from following through on threats to send him to a third country. The timing of Abregos physical release from custody remains unknown. Before Wednesdays rulings, both federal prosecutors and Abregos attorneys in the Tennessee case preemptively sought a 30-day delay if the court granted his release. The delay, they said, was intended to prevent Trump administration officials from immediately dispatching Abrego to an unnamed country. A federal magistrate judge late Wednesday granted their 30-day-delay request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Issuance of the order directing Abregos release with conditions is STAYED for 30 days, subject to further order, federal Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes ruled. Abrego shall therefore remain in the custody of the United States Marshal pending further order, as previously directed, she wrote. U.S. Marshals oversee pre-trial detainees in federal cases. Attorneys for Abrego did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the rulings. Abrego, a Maryland construction worker, was mistakenly sent to a Salvadoran prison in March after a routine traffic stop led to his detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Originally from El Salvador, Abrego entered the U.S. illegally more than a decade ago but in 2019 secured an order from an immigration judge that barred his deportation to his home country where, he said, he feared gang violence. Abregos mistaken deportation to a notorious Salvadoran prison served to highlight the lack of due process protections for immigrants caught up in the Trump administrations mass immigration crackdowns. A federal prosecutor who acknowledged Abrego was deported in error was subsequently fired and has since filed a whistleblower complaint. Trump administration officials refused to return Abrego to the United States for months, even after the Supreme Court upheld a lower courts ruling ordering the administration to facilitate his return. It was only after intense public interest in his case that the Tennessee human smuggling charges were filed against Abrego in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges are linked to a 2022 traffic stop that prosecutors now say intercepted Abregos job chauffeuring immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally to points around the country. Abrego has entered not guilty pleas to the two human smuggling charges. Separately, his attorneys are seeking a court order barring Trump administration officials from publicly discussing his case after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called Abrego a monster and horrible human being who should never be released free. Noem made the remarks July 18 at a Homeland Security field office in Nashville where, she said, she was highlighting the worst of the worst immigrants who had committed crimes. These comments made by a sitting cabinet secretary (and one of the Nations highest ranking law enforcement officials) in this District, mere miles from the courthouse where Mr. Abregos case is pending are precisely of the type that are most likely to prejudice Mr. Abregos right to a fair trial, Abregos attorneys wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secretary Noem assailed Mr. Abregos character and reputation, including with verbal insults and allegations that are irrelevant to the offenses charged in the indictment and almost certainly inadmissible at trial. Attorneys for Abrego noted they had formally requested a retraction of the remarks on July 21 but had received no response. Abregos lawyers are seeking a court order that clarifies that the Department of Homeland Security and other government officials are barred by standing court rules from discussing the case publicly. Federal prosecutors have not yet filed a reply to their petition. Abrego is represented by New York-based Hecker Fink and Nashville law firm Sherrard Roe Voight & Harbison. This story was originally published on Construction Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Construction Dive newsletter. Jose Espinosa is taking the reins as president and CEO of toll highway company 407 ETR, according to a news release from the Woodbridge, Ontario-based firm. He brings to the role more than 25 years of international experience in tolling and highway infrastructure across the U.S., Canada, Europe and Australia. Headshot of a man in a suit. Espinosa succeeded Javier Tamargo, who served as president and CEO since September 2020, on July 16. Tamargo is now CEO of Austin, Texas-headquartered highway firm Cintra US, a subsidiary of Amsterdam-headquartered civil engineering company Ferrovial. Espinosa also joined the 407 ETR board of directors this month. His appointment is a return to the firm: Between 2009 and 2016, Espinosa worked as corporate shareholder liaison and reporting manager, and later as project director for Highway 407 ETR East operations, per the release. Espinosa recently served as CEO of three North Texas highways the Lyndon B. Johnson Expressway, North Tarrant Express and North Tarrant Express 35W where he worked to increase capacity and connectivity on main arteries in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, per the release. Prior to that, he served as CEO at I-77 Mobility Partners in Charlotte, North Carolina. Previously, Espinosa also worked at Ferrovial, starting in 2000 as an analyst in the corporate treasury department and progressing through several management positions at Madrid-based Cintra, according to his company biography page. "Mr. Espinosa comes with a proven track record in complex infrastructure management and is well positioned to lead 407 ETR through its next phase of growth and operational excellence. His global experience will be instrumental as we continue to drive innovation, enhance the customer experience, and deliver long-term value to our stakeholders," said 407 International Board Chair David McFadden in the release. Recommended Reading Katz emphasized maintaining Israels air superiority from Operation Rising Lion and called for an enforcement plan to prevent Iran's nuclear and missile program restoration. Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated on Tuesday evening that Israel may consider resuming its campaign against Iran, during a situation assessment held with senior military leaders. The meeting included key military figures such as Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, and heads of the IDF Intelligence Directorate, as well as additional IDF commanders and representatives from the Mossad and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katz stressed the importance of maintaining Israels air superiority, which was achieved during Operation Rising Lion. He called for the development of an effective enforcement plan to prevent Iran from restoring its nuclear and missile programs. Additionally, Katz confirmed the IDFs stance consistent with the policy he previously outlined, stressing that the main goals of the current Israel-Hamas War are the return of all hostages and the defeat of Hamas. Defense Minister Israel Katz attends a state memorial ceremony for Operation Protective Edge at the National Memorial Hall at the entrance to the military cemetery on Mount Herzl, July 6, 2025 (credit: FLASH90/CHAIM GOLDBERG) Regional security developments On regional security, Katz pointed out that two fronts remain open: Gaza and Yemen. He stressed that action must be taken to resolve these conflicts in alignment with Israels aggressive offensive policy, which has been successful in confronting threats from Iran, Lebanon, and Syria. Katz further discussed the ongoing deployment of IDF soldiers, particularly at critical control points and security zones in Syria and Lebanon. He highlighted that Israels presence in these areas is essential for protecting Israeli communities. He also stressed that the IDF must prepare for any potential future security challenges. IDF operations in the West Bank Regarding the West Bank, Katz praised the IDFs offensive operations in the northern Samaria refugee camps, which he described as successful. He instructed the IDF to maintain its presence in these camps and be prepared for further forceful action if needed, especially in response to potential new terrorist strongholds. Katzs warning to Iran In early July, at an IAF pilot graduation ceremony, Katz issued a direct warning to Iran. He stated that the graduates represent the long arm of the IDF, capable of striking anywhere in Iranfrom Tehran to Isfahan to Tabriz, The Jerusalem Post previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katz described the graduates as a direct message to the dictator [Iranian Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei and to the ayatollahs in Iran about the destructive power of the air force should Iran test the Jewish states patience, he said. There is no place where Iranian officials who harm Israel can hide, he concluded. Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report. This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Del Taco has reopened five Colorado locations as company-owned units since June 21, and will reopen 12 more in the coming months, the company said in an emailed press release. Each restaurant will have a refreshed in-store experience with digital ordering kiosks. Del Taco took over these locations when franchisee Newport Ventures closed 18 of its Colorado locations in February, months after the operator declared bankruptcy. Dive Insight: With another franchisee declaring bankruptcy this month, Del Tacos difficulties with franchised units will likely continue through the rest of the year. The chain has struggled to grow same-store sales for several quarters, with fiscal Q2 comparable sales down 3.6% companywide and franchisee sales down 4.2%, Jack in the Box CFO Dawn Hooper said during parent company Jack in the Boxs May earnings call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This lack of sales growth could disrupt Del Tacos plans to refranchise its company-owned stores a strategy established under Jack in the Boxs ownership. Jack in the Box said earlier this year that it is considering selling Del Taco as part of a turnaround strategy. Despite the struggles, Del Taco continues to open new locations. Six restaurants opened during the past quarter, Hooper said. Franchisees expected to open 18 new units during fiscal 2025, according to a franchise disclosure document filed in May. The chain has seen positive momentum from a menu optimization strategy, which the company rolled out during the first half of fiscal Q1, Hooper said. That initiative helped improve product mix and average check. The company is continuing to leverage menu changes to drive sales this quarter, and brought back its popular Macho Burrito, according to the emailed press release. The menu item is an oversized burrito with seasoned beef, marinated chicken or carne asada steak with beans, cheddar cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, two sauces and sour cream. The company also recently added El Big Boxes, tiered meal bundles starting at $5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were thrilled to reestablish our presence in the Denver and Colorado Springs communities that have supported Del Taco for more than two decades, Sarah McAloon, interim president of Del Taco, said in a statement. Were already seeing an incredible response at the locations that have reopened. Recommended Reading As SpaceX prepares to send up its 19th Dragon spacecraft with humans on board, the Boeing Starliner which has only completed half of a crewed mission to date remains in fix-it mode. Its next launch is scheduled for no earlier than 2026, and then maybe not even one with crew, according to NASA. In a press conference for the SpaceX Crew-11 launch earlier this month, NASA Commercial Crew Program manager Steve Stich updated progress on getting Starliner back up and running as the second of NASAs two commercial launch providers that are supposed to share duties of ferrying astronauts to and from the International Space Station. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We really are working toward a flight as soon as early next year for Starliner, he said. And then ultimately, our goal is to get into crew rotation flights with Starliner, and those would start no earlier than the second rotation slot at the end of next year. At issue was that when Starliner launched on the Crew Flight Test (CFT) on June 5, 2024 from Cape Canaveral, it developed several helium leaks and thruster failures in the propulsion system before docking with the space station the following day. What was supposed to be an eight-day stay on board stretched into the summer with NASA ultimately electing to fly Starliner home without crew in September. While it landed safely, Boeing and NASA have analyzed the source for the problems, and for now have elected to find new sealant material to address the helium leaks and explore several hardware changes to deal with what was determined to be overheated thrusters. Stich said testing was taking places in multiple locations across the country, but a lot of the work is being done on the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico. That includes putting into a test stand what he called a doghouse, which is the casing within which the individual thrusters are contained on the spacecraft. The doghouse is ultimately the enclosure that was partly responsible for retaining the heat created by their use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That testing is scheduled to start toward the end of next month, and so were making a lot of progress and understanding the thermal performance, he said. These will build the informed thermal modeling. He also said Boeing was adding hardware that would draw heat away from the thruster as well as adding some thermal barriers that would keep heat from coming back up into the doghouse. So thats showing a lot of progress compared to the original design of the thruster, he said. While its next flight wont be until 2026, Stich said the decision has yet to be made as to whether it would be with crew or just a cargo mission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were still looking at that, whether it to be a cargo flight or not. I think theres a lot of advantages, I would say, to flying a cargo flight first. If we really look at the history of Starliner and both Dragon, I think Dragon benefited a lot from having earlier flights before the crew contract, he said. But it ultimately depends on the results of testing. What were really looking at is, can we test all the changes that we are making to the doghouses, in particular, on the ground, and would we want to validate those in flight first? And so theres a strong chance well fly a cargo flight first, he said. Thats still in front of us. Meanwhile, SpaceX keeps rolling along with the Crew-11 launch targeting as early as July 31 for liftoff from Kennedy Space Centers Launch Pad 39-A. The Crew Dragon Endeavour, which was the first of SpaceXs fleet of five Crew Dragons to fly with humans in May 2020, is making its record fifth launch. Its passengers are NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre to relieve Crew-10, who rode up on board the Crew Dragon Endurance which has been attached to the space station since arriving in March. SpaceXs Demo-2 test mission in 2020 marked the first launch of NASA astronauts from U.S. soil since the end of the Space Shuttle Program nine years earlier. The interim saw a reduced population on the station with NASA relying on Russian Soyuz launches to get its astronauts into space. SpaceX followed up the test flight with its first operational mission, Crew-1, later in 2020, and has since flown 10 crew rotation missions as well as seven private launches of its Crew Dragon. The four members of Crew-11 will bring the total number of humans flown by SpaceX to 74 in just over five years. That includes Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, the pair of NASA astronauts who flew up to the station on the test flight of Starliner last summer, but ultimately made the return trip on board a Crew Dragon when NASA decided Starliners issues with helium leaks and thruster failures was too risky. While Starliner returned to Earth without crew after three months attached to the space station, Williams and Wilmore didnt get back home until March 2025, flying home with Crew-9 after spending 9 1/2 months on board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The need to shuffle the pair onto a Crew Dragon for the flight home meant the removal of the original commander of Crew-9 along with another NASA astronaut to leave room for the Starliner duo. That commander was Cardman, who now reassigned as Crew-11 commander is making her debut trip to space. Fincke was also tapped to fly on what was supposed to be first rotational flight of Starliner, Starliner-1, and was the backup to Williams and Wilmore on CFT, while Japans Yui was also trained to fly on Starliner. With Starliner-1s delay potentially until late 2026, though, the pair joined Cardman on the Crew-11 roster. NASA originally ordered six operational missions from Boeing worth $4.6 billion and from SpaceX for $2.6 billion. With Starliner delays, SpaceX has now landed 14 operational mission contracts and about to fly its 11th, while Boeing has yet to fulfill its first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At only two flights to the station per year, NASA only needs enough to staff that station through 2030, after which it will be safely decommissioned and brought back down to burn up in Earths atmosphere. In the meantime, NASA is looking to certify missions to last up to eight months instead of the normal six, which could reduce further the number of flights needed through 2030. Its really too early to speculate how many flights well fly with each provider, SpaceX and Boeing, but you know, we are looking at that, looking at the station life, he said. Stich said its possible contracted missions could spill over to help support the new commercial space stations that are being worked on by companies like Axiom Space and Blue Origin, and should be operational before 2030. Were also looking ahead toward commercial LEO (low-Earth orbit) and toward the commercial LEO destinations, and preserving transportation capability, both cargo and crew for those destinations, he said. Right now, were taking it one step at a time, and the first step in front of us is Crew-11. Delray Beach is removing its rainbow intersection which the city just spent $5,759 repainting for the beginning of LGBTQ+ Pride month in June. City Manager Terrence Moore announced removal in a written statement on Wednesday. He said the work is expected to begin in the coming days. Moore said the city had no choice, though he was indirect about the precise reason. Like several other communities across Florida, the City of Delray Beach is required to bring the intersection at Northeast 1st Street and Northeast 2nd Avenue commonly known as the Pride Intersection into compliance with public safety standards, as outlined by the Florida Department of Transportation, Moore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand that this intersection holds deep meaning for many in our LGBTQ+ community and beyond. For many, it is a symbol of pride, visibility, and belonging. While we must adhere to state guidelines, our city remains committed to honoring our values of inclusion, equity, and respect for all, he said. The citys decision is a result of directives from the administrations of President Donald Trump and Gov. Ron DeSantis to get rid of the street markings that commemorate the LGBTQ+ community. Trumps transportation secretary, Sean Duffy, wrote in a July 1 social media post that Taxpayers expect their dollars to fund safe streets, not rainbow crosswalks, and DeSantis transportation secretary, Jared Perdue, wrote a day later that Florida wants to keep our transportation facilities free & clear of political ideologies. Perdue attached a memo to his social media post that threatened to withhold state money from noncompliant cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the current budget year, the city is set to receive $11.5 million in Florida Department of Transportation grant funds, passed through the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency, Gina Carter, the citys director of communications, said via email. The transportation policy comes at a time of a rapidly shifting political environment surrounding the LGBTQ+ community and related issues. Efforts that support diversity, equity and inclusion have been disbanded by federal and state governments. Many local government officials are nervous about the potential risk of doing something that runs counter to the political winds blowing from Tallahassee. On Tuesday, DeSantis announced the beginning of state efforts to DOGE local governments. Among other things, he said the state would be looking for evidence of spending that promoted DEI. In April, Delray Beach commissioners debated whether continuing the city-sponsored and -financed Pride festival and concert could attract the attention and ire from the state government. Ultimately, the City Commission maintained the $15,000 for Pride Fest and $15,000 for a Pride concert, both of which were held on June 14. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 16, Boynton Beach became the first of three Palm Beach County cities with Pride intersections to act. Boynton painted over its rainbow intersection in black. West Palm Beach said on June 18 that it would remove its Pride intersection, with work likely beginning in the next 30 days. Fort Lauderdale hasnt responded to questions about its plans for a segment of Sebastian Street, between State Road A1A and Seabreeze Boulevard, painted to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The section of the Fort Lauderdale street near the beach is next to a construction site and has greatly decayed. Barriers nearby make it unlikely that many pedestrians would see the flag painted on the street and covered with tracks and spots of black residue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Delray Beach intersection and the Fort Lauderdale street are painted as the progress pride flag, the current symbol for the LGBTQ+ community. Most of it consists of the six rainbow stripes that are a familiar symbol LGBTQ+ pride. It also includes triangular black and brown stripes to represent people of color and baby blue, pink and white stripes to include colors of a transgender flag. The city spent $16,000 in 2021 to design and install the intersection and apply a non-slip surface. Paint was reapplied a year later for $2,500. Subsequent repaintings, including this year, cost $5,300 to $5,800, Carter said. The Delray Beach intersection was damaged last month by a pickup truck driver burning tire marks into the paint, the third time its been vandalized since it was unveiled in 2021. Political writer Anthony Man can be reached at aman@sunsentinel.com and can be found @browardpolitics on Bluesky, Threads, Facebook and Mastodon. Rob Long, a Delray Beach city commissioner, said Wednesday he is running to succeed the late state Rep. Joe Casello. Im proud to carry forward Joe Casellos legacy of principled leadership, compassion for working families, and relentless advocacy for the people of this district, Long said in a statement. We need steady, experienced leadership in Tallahassee, and thats exactly what Ill bring to the table. The Delray Beach-Boynton Beach 90th state House district is the most Democratic-leaning district in Palm Beach County, and the partys nominee is virtually certain to become the next state representative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far the only candidate is Long, and he may not have any competition for the nomination. He said he already has endorsements of all the Democratic senators and representatives from Palm Beach County. Hes also been endorsed by a range of political organizations: the Service Employees International Union; the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, an LGBTQ+ rights organization; and the Palm Beach County Fraternal Order of Police, a law enforcement union. Casello died last week. On Tuesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis set the dates for special primary and general elections to fill the vacancy. Wednesdays announcement from Long wasnt a surprise; he filed paperwork in February to run as a candidate in 2026, when Casello was ineligible to run again because of term limits. In February, Casello endorsed Long as his successor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The special primary election, if more than one candidate in each party qualifies to run, will be Sept. 30. The special general election is scheduled for Dec. 9. That timing means the district wont have representation during preliminary work for the 2026 legislative session when committees meet in Tallahassee. But it would have a representative for the full session next year. Delray effect There will be a spillover effect. Under the states resign to run law, which requires an elected official to resign their current offices to run for another, Long is required to submit an irrevocable resignation as city commissioner. Andrew Dohlberg, a campaign representative, said Long would submit his resignation to the City Clerk by the end of the day Wednesday. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resignation will be effective Dec. 8, the day before the special election. Virtually all candidates affected by the resign-to-run law handle it that day, resigning the day before Election Day for the new office. The City Commission is charged with appointing a replacement to fill the vacancy, according to the City Charter. If that sometimes-fractious group of commissioners cant agree on a replacement after two regular meetings, the charter says the commission shall call a special election to fill the vacancy. The candidate Long was elected to the Delray Beach City Commission in 2023, defeating incumbent Juli Casale. She ran in 2024 and was elected to a different seat, so they serve on the same commission. Previously he was president of the Palm Beach County Young Democrats. In 2020, he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention pledged to support Joe Biden. He is also a past elected member of the Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District and a past member of the citys Planning and Zoning Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has a bachelors degree in civil engineering from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from the University of Florida. Long, 40, is co-author of a childrens book, The Great Weather Diviner, a re-imagining of the legend of Groundhog Day made famous by his hometown of Punxsutawney, Pa. Campaign reports show that through June 30, Long had raised $69,000 for his House campaign and for a related political committee called Long Lasting Progress. Much of that money comes from real estate, legal, business and lobbying interests. He spent $13,000 from the time of his announcement in February through June 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he announced his candidacy in February, Long said he wanted to work on property insurance, abortion rights and environmental preservation. The district District 90 is essentially a Delray Beach-Boynton Beach district bordered by Hypoluxo Road in the north, Military Trail on the west (with a couple of pockets west of Military), the Delray Beach-Boca Raton border on the South and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Its overwhelmingly Democratic. The Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office website shows the district currently has 109,190 registered voters. The breakdown is 39.6% Democratic, 29.5% Republican, 27.2% no party affiliation/independent, and 3.7% registered in various minor parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the 2024 presidential election, Democrat Kamala Harris won 54.6% of the vote in District 90 and Republican Donald Trump received 44.2% according to an analysis posted by Democratic data analyst Matthew Isbell. In the U.S. Senate race, Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell received 54.8% of the vote in District 90, and Republican U.S. Sen. Rick Scott received 43.9%. Casello received 56.1% in his final re-election victory. Republican challenger Bill Reicherter received 43.9%. Unusual speed The timing of the special election is noteworthy because DeSantis set the special election dates just a few days after Casellos death. The governor has complete control of the timing. Unlike previous Republican governors, DeSantis has often delayed setting special elections in districts likely to be won by Democrats, leaving vacancies open far longer than in Republican districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he had another vacancy to deal with, after state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, a Republican, resigned because DeSantis appointed him the new state chief financial officer. DeSantis wanted Ingoglias Republican Senate seat in Citrus, Hernando, Pasco and Sumter counties filled, and set the special primary and elections in that district on Tuesday for the same days in December. Political writer Anthony Man can be reached at aman@sunsentinel.com and can be found @browardpolitics on Bluesky, Threads, Facebook and Mastodon. A Delta flight was traveling 60 mph down a runway in Mexico City on Monday when an AeroMexico plane landed in front of it. The Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 jet bound for Atlanta had to stop its takeoff and return to its terminal at Benito Juarez International Airport after an AeroMexico Embraer 190 regional jet flew over the plane and landed in front of it on the same runway, according to multiple reports. FlightRadar24, a flight tracking site, showed the two aircraft about 200 feet apart, according to the reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Delta flight, which had 144 passengers and six crew members on board, departed to Atlanta about three hours late, CNN reported. A Delta flight was traveling 60 mph down a runway in Mexico City on Monday when an AeroMexico plane landed in front of it (AFP/Getty) Delta and AeroMexico both said in separate statements obtained by ABC News the companies were cooperating with authorities as the incident is investigated. Both airlines said maintaining passenger safety was their number one priority. ABC reported on air traffic control recordings from the incident, in which the Delta pilot was reportedly heard saying, "We are holding on the runway. Another voice can be heard in the recordings saying, Wow" and "Increible." The Independent has reached out to the Federal Aviation Administration and Mexicos civil aviation agency for comment. The Delta flight bound for Atlanta had to stop takeoff and return to its terminal at Benito Juarez International Airport after an AeroMexico jet flew over the plane and landed in front of it, according to reports (AFP/Getty) Steve Ganyard, an ABC News aviation contributor and former fighter pilot, explained what could have gone wrong in the near collision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are parallel runways at Mexico City. So we don't know if the controller told the Aeromexico aircraft to land on the left-hand and not the right-hand runway where the Delta jet was," he said. The aviation expert continued: "We also don't know, perhaps the tower controller didn't understand that they had cleared the Aeromexico aircraft to land while simultaneously clearing the Delta jet to take off." Democrat lawmakers on Wednesday morning inspected the Long Island lockup where more than 1,400 Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees have been held in the past five months, after jail staff initially tried to bar the politicians from entering. Jail officials denied State Sen. Julia Salazar and Assembly member Michaelle Solages access to Nassau County Correctional Center when they arrived without notice shortly after 10 a.m. looking to tour the facility and speak with immigrant detainees their right as members of the Legislature. After calling County Executive Bruce Blakeman as well as Gov. Hochuls legal counsel, and much back-and-forth with jail staff, the pair were permitted to enter roughly an hour later. Salazar said the jails initial reluctance to let her and Solages inside raised questions as to whether they might be hiding something. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the lawmakers did not observe egregious conditions inside, they suspect many detainees are being held past the 72-hour legal limit established by the 287(g) agreement, without access to showers or recreation. Earlier this year, the Nassau County Police Department signed 287(g), an agreement to work with ICE, giving county officers the authority to question residents status and make arrests if they do not have adequate documents. I think its unacceptable that people are being held and our neighbors are being held, and who have not been charged with a crime, are being held in immigration detention right here in New York State, Salazar told reporters outside the jail. Jail staff begrudgingly allowed Salazar to speak to detainees, including one Guatemalan immigrant named Mr. Perez who said he had been locked up at the jail since Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is now Wednesday. When I asked him if he was going to be leaving today he said he did not know, Salazar said. So I suspect, given that timeline, that he and other individuals here are being held longer than the legal limit. The man also said several of his cellmates had already been there before he arrived Sunday, Salazar added. Mr. Perez has lived in Huntington for 20 years and owns a small business. He has no criminal record, Salazar said. Of the 50 cells designated for ICE detainees inside the jail, only 14 were occupied Wednesday, with just one detainee to a cell. Assembly member Solages, who represents the district where the East Meadow jail is located, said several detainees complained of not being able to shower. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I talked to one gentleman who said he would like to have access to showers, Solages said. Also, he doesnt know whats going on. Hes going to be sent off and he contributes to society. Hes been here for a very long time and this is just wrong. He said, This is wrong. I want to be here in America, and its wrong that Im being treated this way. Salazar said other detainees told her they are not given any recreation time. That means theyre often not seeing any sunlight, she said. Thats really harmful to a persons mental health. Theres no excuse for that. Salazar said she is sponsoring a bill called Dignity not Detention, which would make it illegal for local governments to house ICE detainees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope that New York State can stand up to this because its wrong, Solages said. America is a land of immigrants, New York is a land of immigrants and we shouldnt be complicit in this. Theyre not going after the criminals anymore. Theyre going after the people who are doing right by this country, who are being a part of this fabric. Blakemans office, along with ICE and the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to The News request for comment Wednesday afternoon. House Democratic leaders on Wednesday stepped up their hardball criticism of President Trump and the GOP over the Jeffrey Epstein controversy, accusing their rivals of shielding pedophiles by not releasing federal files surrounding the case. The Democrats say the decision by GOP leaders to leave Washington a day early for the long summer recess a move precipitated by Democratic efforts to force votes compelling the Trump administration to release those files is indication that Republicans dont want the details of the Epstein case revealed because they might implicate wealthy GOP donors, or even President Trump himself. What a fitting end to these six months of Republican control in Washington, Rep. Katherine Clark (Mass.), the Democratic whip, said during a press briefing in the Capitol. Instead of doing their jobs instead of standing up for kids, for families, instead of standing on the side of transparency and accountability Republicans are running away, all to avoid the release of the Epstein client list, all to cover up for pedophiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fiery rhetoric comes as the House has been effectively shut down by Democrats seeking votes on Epstein-related measures, which have divided Republicans. Some Republicans have backed releasing all files held by the Department of Justice (DOJ), while others have argued for some discretion. Democrats, who have been on their heels for much of Trumps six months in office, have rallied around the issue. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said the administrations refusal to release the files combined with the efforts by House Republicans to avoid votes on the issue is part of a broader GOP effort to prioritize policies that benefit the rich and powerful. In the context of this Jeffrey Epstein scandal, and their refusal to share information to the American people despite promising to do so, one must ponder the question: What are they hiding from the American people? And what billionaires, what well-connected donors, what elite people are they trying to protect? Why havent Republicans released the Epstein files to the American people? Jeffries said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its reasonable to conclude that Republicans are continuing to protect the lifestyles of the rich and shameless even if that includes pedophiles, he continued. Thats a conclusion that, if this continues, one will necessarily be compelled to reach. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) announced Tuesday that the House would scrap the weeks legislative plans in response to the Democrats strategy of forcing votes in the Rules Committee to release the Epstein files. The tactic divided Republicans on the Rules panel, paralyzing the committee. Without legislation to vote on, Johnson said the chamber would recess on Wednesday, rather than Thursday, for the previously scheduled summer break. On Wednesday, Johnson defended those moves and rejected the Democrats accusations out of hand. He said he supports every effort to punish those who committed crimes alongside Epstein We want the full weight of the law to fall upon their head, he said but because the Trump administration says its already moving to release the files, theres no need for Congress to force its hand. Hes accusing Democrats of playing political games for the sole purpose of damaging Trump. There is no point in having a vote today because the administration is already doing everything within their power to release the files, Johnson told reporters in the Capitol. Theyve gone to the grand jury, theyve requested the courts to unseal the documents so that they can be released. The president himself has said all credible evidence should be put out to the American people while protecting the innocent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats where we stand as well. The saga surrounding Epstein, the late financier and convicted pedophile, has posed a huge challenge to Trump six months into his second term. On the campaign trail, the president had vowed to release the Justice Departments records on the case; Vice President Vance had said it was important to take that step; and a number of Trump supporters who had promoted conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein namely, that the government was concealing the files to shield powerful elites from criminal charges have since assumed positions of high power in the Trump administration, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel. Those placements led to expectations among the MAGA faithful that releasing the Epstein records would be a top priority of Trumps second term. Instead, the DOJ earlier this month released an unsigned memo refuting all of the most damning theories surrounding the case. Epstein had no client list, the DOJ said, nor is there evidence that he tried to blackmail powerful figures who might have committed crimes involving minors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency also concluded that Epsteins 2019 death in a Manhattan prison was by suicide, not foul play, as some far-right voices have speculated. The DOJ memo infuriated many of Trumps most ardent supporters, on and off of Capitol Hill. And the outcry has posed the most serious threat to the unity of the MAGA movement since Trumps entrance into the world of politics. Democrats have been eager to exacerbate those divisions by highlighting Trumps past ties to Epstein and pushing resolutions designed to force the release of the DOJ files. But voices on the right have also been frustrated by the DOJs actions, and a minority have expressed criticism of Trump himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), a staunch Trump ally, is also pushing to have the Epstein files publicized. And Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who frequently clashes with Trump, has taken a leading role in the effort to compel the administration to release the documents. Massie, a wild card in his party who has also feuded with Johnson, accused the Speaker of shielding pedophiles. @SpeakerJohnson, why are you running cover for an underage sex trafficking ring and pretending this is a partisan issue? Massie posted on the social platform X. MAGA voted for this. Mychael Schnell contributed reporting. Advertisement 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. Democrats are facing a redistricting problem as Republicans in Texas and potentially other states are redrawing their maps to create more Republican-leaning seats. But state Democrats say that the real problem is the party doesn't do enough to try to flip state legislatures and put Democrats in charge of redrawing the lines in the future. The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee calls on its party to rethink their failed federal-first strategy, in a memo sent to donors and strategists obtained by POLITICO, and instead invest in winning seats in state legislatures ahead of 2030 redistricting. To have a shot at winning and maintaining a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives moving forward, Democrats must reassess our failed federal-first strategy and get serious about winning state legislatures ahead of redistricting, the memo said. Not just in the final months of 2030, but starting now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The memo indicates that 39 of 50 states give state legislatures control over congressional lines, and Republicans have been significantly more successful in controlling statehouses since investing millions into their REDMAP strategy in 2010. Following the 2024 election, seven states had veto-proof Democratic majorities, while 18 had veto-proof Republican majorities. The DLCC said failing to change that lopsided math will keep them out of power. It turns out that the road to power is not necessarily through Pennsylvania Avenue, said Paul Begala, a strategist who worked for both the Clinton and Obama campaigns. It runs through Lansing and Austin and Albany and Frankfurt [and] Columbus. Begala said in an interview that Democrats current deficit in state legislatures is a result of the partys constant search for a messiah like Clinton or Obama to lead them to victory. He said that search has pushed the party to misallocate the broad resources it has at play investing in hard-to-win high-profile races rather than thinking long-term about building power. Ive watched this party pour $110 million into Jaime Harrisons campaign against Lindsey Graham. That was a fools errand, Begala said. How many Michigan Senate seats could we have picked up for that? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DLCCs memo proposed a year-by-year plan to increase Democratic seats, beginning with Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin in 2026. Four-year state senate terms beginning in 2027 are key, the memo points out, as are state house and assembly races in 2028, 2029 and 2030. Democrats have room to make gains in Texas, Mississippi and Oklahoma over the next five years, Begala says. North Carolina, Michigan and Pennsylvania are also key targets for Democrats, though they each come with hurdles, like a hostile state supreme court in North Carolina. The memo emphasized anchoring or starting with downballot races and then moving to statewide and federal races was part of Democrats successful strategy to flip Colorado from red to blue over the last 25 years (though the state also benefitted from a major demographic shift that benefited Democrats too). The DLCC and Begala say its key to keep Democrats afloat in upcoming redistricting battles. Like this reporting? Subscribe to Morning Score. CLARIFICATION: This article added a word to Begala's quote for clarity. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. This article was featured in the One Story to Read Today newsletter. Sign up for it here. In this first year of his second term, President Donald Trump has claimed broad powers to unilaterally restructure much of how the U.S. government functions. Some of these assertions have gone completely unchallenged. Others have been litigated, and although lower courts have been skeptical of many of these efforts, the Supreme Court has been more approving. Trump has taken as much advantage of his new powers as he plausibly can, prosecuting his political enemies, firing independent agency heads, and dismantling federal agencies almost at a whim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One salient question now is: When and if the Democrats return to power, how much of Trumps damage can they undo? Lets assume, for the moment, that the Supreme Court acts in good faiththat its views on presidential power are without partisan favor, and that it doesnt arbitrarily invent carve-outs to rein in a Democratic president. What then? Even with such (unlikely) parameters, the outcomes of this thought experiment suggest few opportunities for a Democratic president to make positive use of these novel presidential powers. Most of the powers that Trump asserts are either preclusive (preventing something from happening) or negating (ending something that is already in process). Few of them are positive powers, allowing the creation of something new, and even those are not permanentthe next Republican president could likely reverse most Democratic initiatives, sending the country into a retaliatory spiral. Consider, as a first point of examination, the presidents newly established power to restructure the federal workforce, as in the layoffs of more than 1,300 State Department employees, the dismissal of inspectors general, and the firing of independent agency members. Most recently, the Supreme Court authorized Trump to continue with his plan to dismantle the Department of Education, despite a statute mandating its creation. A future Democratic president, if so inclined, could seek to use that same authority to reverse some of what Trump has done. He could, for example, remove all of the Trump-appointed commissioners from the formerly independent agencies (such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and the National Labor Relations Board) and replace them with Democratic appointees whose views are more consistent with the presidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Peter M. Shane: This is the presidency John Roberts has built] This new president could also attempt to reconstitute institutions that have been decimated, such as Voice of America, and restore the many State Department bureaus and functions that have been terminated. He could, presumably, re-create the Department of Education and restore the workforce at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and NASA. Even if attempted restorations are legal, however, they may not succeed in practice. Firing experts is much easier than hiring them. And given the uncertainties that Trump has created, our best and brightest might not willingly take positions in the federal government. Who wants a job that might last only four years? Meanwhile, across the government, a Democratic president could fire all of the employees who were hired by Trump and agreed to his loyalty requirements. The president could also use the same authority to significantly diminish the workforce at agencies whose functions he is less warm to. Many of the soon-to-be-hired ICE employees, for instance, might find themselves subject to a reduction in force under a new Democratic administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be sure, the Supreme Court, as it is currently constituted, might find a rationale to block the dismantling of the TSA or the Department of Homeland Security. But very few functions at DHS are statutorily mandated at the current level of activity, and there is no legal distinction between presidential authority over DHS and, say, the Department of Education. Likewise, a Democratic president could reinstate funding to several grant-making agencies that Trump has defunded. He could restore international-aid funding to USAID and authorize the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences to resume distributing grants to American recipients. All of the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health funding that has been pulled from basic research at major universities could be restored. Again, however, this is easier said than doneinterrupted funding has likely permanently terminated some scientific inquiry and driven U.S.-based scientists overseas. International-aid programs that were suspended will be hard to rebuild. Some recent policy changes are more readily reversible. Transgender soldiers could be welcomed back into the military, for example. Forts can be renamed, and the U.S. can rejoin international organizations. Here, too, the harmful effects can be mitigated, but the prospect of a return of Trumpism down the line will resonate for a long time in terms of substantial losses of expertise, stability, and trust. Trump has also been aggressive in using federal funding as a means of encouraging his policy priorities in the private sector. Even when his efforts are resisted by the courts (such as his attempt to defund Harvard), his threats to federal funding have caused other institutions, such as the University of Pennsylvania, to change their policies or, in the case of the University of Virginia, dismiss their leaders. The same is true of his assault on big law firms; although his efforts have been legally stymied, their impact on major firms has already been significant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What could a Democratic president do with this power? Most obviously, the president could flip Trumps agenda on its headdenying federal funding to universities that lack DEI policies, for example, or ousting from federal contracts any conservative law firms that have provided pro bono services to disfavored causes, or whose partners played significant roles in the Trump administration. Perhaps most dangerous, a Democrat could reverse the changes at the Department of Justice, not in an effort to make it apolitical but in the hopes of serving friends on the left and punishing the Trump-affiliated right. The president could dismiss any pending cases against allies (as Attorney General Pam Bondi recently did for a Utah doctor who issued fake COVID-vaccination cards) and use their power to punish opponentsWhite House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, the former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, and others could face the expense of criminal investigation. Conservative states such as Alabama and Texas could be investigated for civil-rights violations. Likewise, corporate officials who have caved to Trump, such as Shari Redstone of Paramount, have already been suggested as investigative targets. And the president could unilaterally issue subpoenas to almost any conservative-supporting institutionsay, political consultants for evangelical-church organizations. A president could, perhaps, even attempt to end the nonprofit status of all religious organizationsthough one suspects that this Supreme Court would not permit that step on religious-liberty grounds. One of the most significant assertions of presidential power Trump has made is that he can nullify a lawthat is, that he can dispense with enforcing it based on his authority as chief executive. The prime example of this is his refusal to enforce the congressionally mandated ban on TikTok on the specious ground that he has national-security power to do so. Under this theory, almost any regulatory requirement could be suspended for being inconsistent with national security. A future Democratic president might, for example, dispense with limits on labor-union organizing on the grounds that the workforce is essential to national competitiveness. Export or import licenses could be manipulated to fund military activities. Or, to parallel Trump as much as possible, penalties against favored European enterprises could be waived as part of diplomatic negotiations, and existing exemptions for disfavored nations could be ignored. The possibilities are almost as endless as a presidents imagination. Ultimately, a Democratic president with the political will to use the levers of power left by Trump could at least partially restore the status quo ante and unilaterally impose certain changes as wellwhich a subsequent Republican president could then undo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What lies ahead, then, is a new era of pendulum swings, replacing the stability of the postwar governing consensus. Ahead is a cycle of retributive prosecutions and whipsaw funding decisions. America may see entire Cabinet departments alternatively created and closed every four years while the presidency goes from policy to anti-policyenforcing DEI in one administration, perhaps, and prohibiting it in the next. The country would, in effect, return to the time before the Pendleton Act, when the entire federal workforce turned over with each successive administration, rewarding cronyism at the expense of expertise. [Aziz Huq: The Courts liberals are trying to tell Americans something] But in this new power arrangement, the Trump-aligned presidents will have the advantage. It takes only 20 minutes to dismiss 1,300 State Department employees; their expertise cannot be replaced in 20 years, much less a single presidential term. Other departments and agencies can never be fully restored. To cite a mundane example, in the first six months of Trumps second term, the DOJ has lost two-thirds of the experienced attorneys in the Federal Programs branch (which defends the government in civil court). Many resigned rather than have to defend Trumps initiatives. That level of destruction cannot be quickly fixed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Trump and the Supreme Court have created is a ratchet of destruction. They have discovered that knocking things down is far easier than building them. And because the overall conservative project is to reduce the size of government, the structural advantage of destruction over creation is ineradicable. Even the most effective possible responses from a Democratic president (such as scaling down ICE to a bare minimum) come with their own set of problems. All of this might have been different had the Supreme Court stepped in to diminish or negate these new assertions of presidential power, but it has not. And so the pendulum will swing back and forth, but the long-term trend is toward an ever-diminishing federal government that does whatever a conservative Court will permit it to do. The prospect is not just sadit is terrifying. Article originally published at The Atlantic Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Marco Velazquez never expected to need backup just to enter his own Chicago home. But after a routine showing turned into a standoff with strangers living inside, he made a decision most homeowners wouldn't even consider: he moved in with them. According to WLS-TV, Velazquez had listed his South Side property for sale. When his realtor arrived with a prospective buyer, the house was already occupied. A woman and a man claimed they had just purchased the home and even showed police what looked like mortgage documents. But Cook County records showed no such mortgage existed. Don't Miss: Velazquez says officers told him that due to current state law, they couldn't intervene. The matter would have to be handled in civil court. "I said, I'm not going to leave.' Called a couple friends, stayed overnight and I knew they were not going to like that," Velazquez told WLS-TV. He, his wife, and a few friends stayed in the living room. The alleged squatters identified as Shermaine Powell-Gillard and her boyfriend, Codarro stayed in one of the bedrooms. Rather than leave, the pair made a demand: $8,000 to vacate the property. Velazquez ended up paying $4,300 in a signed cash-for-keys agreement to get them out a move common with holdover tenants after an eviction or with former owners in foreclosure. "We didn't want to give them money, but we heard really bad stories about squatters taking over properties for six, eight, 10 months, even a year," Velazquez said. Trending: With Point, you can get up to $500,000 in cash from your property with no monthly payments and no income requirements even if your credit isn't perfect. He says a Chicago detective later informed him that Powell-Gillard was also accused in a similar situation involving another home in the city. In that case, she was arrested and charged with burglary, forgery, obstructing identification, and criminal trespassing. Velazquez is now working with investigators and hopes something will come of his case as well. "I heard stories before about squatters. I never thought it would happen to me," he said. Powell-Gillard, for her part, denied the squatter claims, telling WLS-TV the accusations are "false and unfounded." The station reported that attempts to reach her alleged boyfriend were unsuccessful at the time of publication. Democrats are deeply divided over how hard to press their leverage with President Trump and his Republican allies on getting concessions in a bill to fund the government that needs to pass by Sept. 30 to avoid a shutdown. Senate Democrats held a tense lunch meeting Tuesday to discuss their plan for how to vote on the first spending bill to reach the floor the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs appropriations bill as well as their strategy for how to handle the end-of-September government funding deadline. Soon after that session, which stretched to nearly 3 p.m. EDT Tuesday, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) met with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.) to piece together a strategy as progressives called for them to take a hard line with Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hard to negotiate a budget with Republicans right now because they have demonstrated that they will cut a deal and then turn around and change the deal solely to benefit themselves. Thats not a deal, thats like cutting a deal to buy a car, and then long after the price has been paid, the Republicans want to come and repossess the tires. It doesnt work that way, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said. My views on engaging in pretend negotiations with Republicans who are simply in a power grab and will do whatever Donald Trump tells them to do [is that it] doesnt make a lot of sense, Warren said. Some disgruntled progressives are vowing they cannot repeat the mistake they made in March, when 10 Democratic senators including Schumer voted for a partisan government funding package passed by the House, which cut Democratic priorities and failed to put guardrails on Elon Musk or the Department of Government Efficiency. Democrats are arguing behind closed doors that they need to make every effort to insist that Republicans agree to bipartisan legislation to fund the government. If Republicans refuse, these Democrats say they should then blame Trump and his GOP allies for any ensuing shutdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic lawmakers say Schumer is afraid of how a shutdown would play out politically and wants to avoid such a scenario at almost all costs. At the same time, Democrats warn that if Schumer votes again for a partisan funding package that barely squeaks through Congress with minimal Democratic support, there will likely be a strong backlash from the party base. Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat representing swing-state Pennsylvania, argues Congress should do everything it can to avoid a government shutdown that would result in hundreds of thousands of federal employees being furloughed. I was the first to say I will never vote to shut the government down, and that hasnt changed and its not going to change, Fetterman told The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shutting the government down how could you do that and plunge our country into chaos? he added. Schumer acknowledged his dilemma Tuesday, telling reporters he wants to reach a deal with Republicans but complaining that Trumps allies arent making it easy. We Democrats want a bipartisan deal. Were working together to get one, but the bottom line is Republicans are making it much harder rescissions, impoundment, pocket rescissions directly undoes this, he said, referring to the rescissions package Republicans passed last week to defund PBS, NPR and global aid programs. You cant say you want a bipartisan process and at the same time put rescissions on the floor, which is the antithesis of bipartisan, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent polling shows Democrats have a lower approval rating than Republicans. Some Democratic senators think the partys poor rating stems from a perception that they arent putting up enough of a fight against Trump and the GOP. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), the ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, is now pushing an amendment to prevent the White House from advancing another rescissions package. He wants Republicans to agree to it before advancing annual appropriations legislation. Some progressives argue it would be foolish to agree to bipartisan spending bills to keep the government open only to watch Republicans later advance rescissions packages to cut funding for Democratic priorities, such as womens health care, education and environmental programs. Democrats are also toying with the idea of insisting Republicans agree to extend enhanced health care insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act that are due to expire at the end of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans decided not to do so as part of tax credits extended in Trumps tax and spending megabill, leaving Democrats warning that millions of Americans will lose their health insurance. We had a constructive lunch and weve got some very significant issues right in front of us, said Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), the ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Coons said he and his staff is working well with Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), the chair of the subcommittee, but cautioned theres a real tension being created by the threat that the White House budget office director, Russell Vought, will send another rescissions package to Congress. The next rescission is predicted will go after education, Coons said. It was one of the early targets of DOGE [the Department of Government Efficiency]. When they start trying to rescission things like Veterans Administration, defense, Social Security, you get right into the very heart of what impacts the lives of millions of Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he warned that the so-called big, beautiful bill is going to throw something like 17 million Americans off of health care. Coons said he supports Merkleys amendment to stop future rescissions packages. Having a process whereby they can reach a bipartisan agreement with us and then undo it with a partisan rescissions process in the long-term, that is not a sustainable process, he said. Asked about Democrats game plan for a government shutdown fight, Coons said: Lots of things about the appropriations process were discussed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Democrats are showing theyre ready to get dirty and hit President Trump where it hurts by stoking the Jeffrey Epstein controversy thats severed his MAGA movement. The strategy strays from the official line coming from top Democrats such as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.), who say they want their midterm campaign message to center on Medicaid cuts and other kitchen-table policies contained in Trumps big, beautiful bill. But the focus on Epstein has also been remarkably successful, energizing the Democratic grassroots and aggravating tensions within the GOP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this week, it prompted Republican leaders to scrap their legislative plans and head early into the long summer recess all to avoid votes on the Epstein saga. Even traditionalist Democratic veterans are applauding the tactic for its effectiveness. As long as we dont live in the mud, crawling down in the mud every now and then is not bad, in the political arena, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.) said. The case of Epstein, the late financier and convicted pedophile, has roiled the Trump administration in recent weeks after the Department of Justice (DOJ) released an unsigned memo saying Epstein did not have a client list and that there was no evidence that he sought to blackmail global elites who might have committed sex crimes or other offenses. The DOJ also said it would not release any more documents surrounding the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The memo directly contradicted claims from Trump, who had campaigned on the notion of releasing at least some of the files, and many prominent figures in his orbit, who have long claimed that Epstein operated an extensive pedophile ring that involved some of the worlds most powerful people a criminal enterprise that was covered up by the government to protect those same elites. Some of the loudest promoters of Epstein-related conspiracy theories have since been appointed to top positions in the Trump administration including U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel and Dan Bongino, Patels deputy director feeding expectations from Trumps supporters that the files would soon be released. In February, Bondi had fueled those expectations further when she said she had the client list on her desk and was preparing to release it. The DOJ memo dashed the hopes of many of the MAGA faithful, fracturing the movement thats stood at the heart of Trumps political ascension. And Democrats have found rare success in dumping salt on the wound. At every turn, Democrats are publicly bashing the administration for reneging on promises to release the Epstein files, aggravating the unusual split within Trumps far-right MAGA base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre demanding votes on bills to force the Justice Department to release those files, paralyzing House floor activity on the Republicans preferred legislative agenda. And theyre backing an obscure procedural maneuver designed to force a floor vote on the Epstein files in the fall, ensuring that the national debate on the sordid episode and the headaches its created for Trump and the GOP will endure for at least a few more months. This is a cover-up of epic proportions, where youve got the majority party literally having us leave Congress early, and not having the Rules Committee meet, because they dont want to deal with releasing the Epstein files, Rep. Ted Lieu (Calif.), vice chair of the House Democratic Caucus, told reporters Tuesday in the Capitol. The storys not going to go away because, at core, this is an issue about underage women who are sexually abused and assaulted, he continued. Attorney General Pam Bondi should not be protecting Epsteins legacy, nor his clients, nor should congressional Republicans be doing the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Epstein saga has created a huge headache for Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and other GOP leaders in the Capitol, who have struggled to contain the unrest within a GOP conference thats divided over whether the Epstein documents should be released. On Monday, the Democrats vows to continue pushing Epstein resolutions brought action on the Rules Committee to a screeching halt, which in turn prevented Republicans from bringing their weeks planned agenda to the floor. Without bills to vote on, Johnson on Tuesday announced that the House will leave Washington on Wednesday, rather than Thursday, for the long summer recess. He insisted the move was not intended to shield Republicans from tough Epstein votes or protect Trump from potentially embarrassing disclosures but to end the Democrats political games. We want any individual whos been involved in any way in the Epstein evils to be brought to justice as quickly as possible, Johnson told reporters. What we refuse to do is participate in another one of the Democrats political games. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not going to let them use this as a political battering ram. Complicating Johnsons efforts, some Republicans have joined Democrats in demanding the release of the Epstein documents. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) is a top sponsor of legislation that would force the DOJ to release the records, and hes also leading the effort to force a vote on that bill through a discharge petition. Because of the obscure rules governing that procedural gambit, a vote on the underlying Epstein proposal wont happen until after Congress returns from the long summer recess in September a timeline all but ensuring that the issue wont go away anytime soon. Jeffries this week downplayed the focus on Epstein, saying Democrats hope to target the major pieces of Trumps big, beautiful bill, particularly the cuts to Medicaid and food stamps that were included to help pay for tax cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other party leaders, however, said Democrats have no intention of taking their foot off the gas when it comes to attempting to release the Epstein files and highlighting his ties to Trump. Were going to continue to support those efforts, said Rep. Pete Aguilar (Calif.), chair of the House Democratic Caucus. Donald Trump and his son and his closest friends spent years fanning the flame of this theory, and now were holding them accountable. Do they want to protect the rich and the powerful? Or do they want the truth? Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Democrats are continuing their attacks on President Donald Trump after The Wall Street Journal published a new story about the Trump administrations handling of the investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that Attorney General Pam Bondi briefed Trump in May that his name appears multiple times in files related to the federal investigation into Epstein, including instances of hearsay about Trump previously socializing with Epstein, who died by suicide in jail in 2019. Trump has not been accused of any legal wrongdoing in connection to Epstein. POLITICO has not independently verified the contents of the Epstein investigation documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to POLITICO, Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that Trump was briefed about the department's review of materials related to the Epstein investigation. DOJ spokesperson Gates McGavick labeled the Journal story "a collection of falsehoods and innuendo designed to push a bullshit narrative and drive clicks." White House spokesperson Steven Cheung called the Journal report a continuation of the fake news stories, while noting that Trump distanced himself from Epstein several years ago. Democrats on Wednesday quickly piled on, continuing their strategy of elevating Trumps previous relationship to Epstein and Republicans turmoil over how to respond to the investigation. Some suggested the Justice Department which in early July issued a memo concluding that there was no evidence that the disgraced financier was killed in his jail cell or kept an incriminating client list may have decided not to release the documents to cover up Trumps ties to Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wait, do you guys think this is why they are withholding the documents?!, Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) said in a tongue-in-cheek social media post . Donald Trump is the biggest swamp monster of them all right now, Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.) wrote on X in response to the Journal story. Release the Epstein files. Release the files, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on X . The new report comes as Trump has grown frustrated at the pervasive interest in the Epstein investigation files from both core supporters who expected Trump to release information about Epsteins associates and from Democrats seeking to capitalize on the Republican infighting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has long been known that Trump and Epstein had a friendly relationship, with the latter at one point regularly visiting Mar-a-Lago. CNN reported on Tuesday new images of the men, including Epstein attending Trumps 1993 wedding. Trump along with other prominent figures, like Bill Clinton are referenced in documents released in court cases surrounding Epstein, but the now president is not accused of any wrongdoing linked to Epstein. But Trump has also maintained for years that he had a falling out with Epstein Cheung said in his statement that Trump kicked him out of his club for being a creep and has sought to distance himself from Epstein. The Trump administration is scrambling to appease the demand for transparency in the Epstein case. Last week, Trump directed Bondi to pursue the release of grand jury transcripts from the Epstein investigation. That effort hit a setback on Wednesday, when a federal judge in Florida rejected one of DOJs bids to unseal the transcripts. The DOJ is also seeking another interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, deputy attorney general Todd Blanche announced on Tuesday, and the House Oversight Committee is also seeking to depose Maxwell , who is serving a 20-year federal sentence for crimes committed in connection with Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats are using the Epstein investigation to jam Republican lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Multiple congressional committee meetings were derailed on Wednesday when Democrats proposed Epstein-related amendments. Speaker Mike Johnson is preparing to let the House leave early for August recess to prevent House Republicans from being further confronted with the issue. The White House is also hoping to shift attention away from Epstein, in part by accusing former president Barack Obama and Obama administration officials of targeting Trump in investigating Russias effort to interfere in the 2016 elections. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard outlined the accusations to reporters during the White House briefing on Wednesday. Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) suggested the White House may need a bigger distraction as stories about Epstein and Trump continue to trickle out. The White House is about to drop proof of aliens, he wrote on X . Josh Gerstein contributed to this report. MILAN Denmark has purchased four U.S.-made long-range maritime drones from General Atomics, a step meant to boost the countrys surveillance capabilities in the Arctic region. The Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization signed an agreement with NATOs Support and Procurement Agency, or NSPA, to acquire four MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, the government agency announced on July 22. The systems are expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2029 and will undergo a certification process to be able to fly in national and international airspace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although no contract value was disclosed, DALO listed three specific areas of interest where the drones could operate: the Arctic, the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea region. The Arctic has become increasingly important for NATOs defense posture, especially in light of growing Russian presence and activities in the region. For example, Russian ice-class LNG tanker Alexey Kosygin, sanctioned by the United States, is expected to become operational in the second half of this year at the countrys Arctic LNG 2 plant, as reported by Reuters. Having eyes in the sky is a priority for Arctic states, but acquiring drones that can operate in such a harsh environment can be challenging. The extreme cold impacts battery life, sensor performance and GPS signal quality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a General Atomics spokesman, the MQ-9B drones are ready to operate in cold temperatures. The MQ-9B is perfect for the Arctic Security mission and has been designed, tested and certified for operations in extremely cold climates it routinely flies at very high altitudes [maximum above 40,000 feet] where outside air is usually between -40 and -70 Fahrenheit (-40 and -56,6 Celsius), spokesman C. Mark Brinkley told Defense News. In its announcement, DALO highlighted that the drone purchase is being conducted in close cooperation with other allied NATO nations to ensure access to common knowledge. Neighboring Norway has also shown interest in acquiring the MQ-9B, as part of its quest to get long-range maritime drones. North Grummans MQ-4C Triton is also in the running there. (Corrects spelling of name in paragraph 5 to Skov) COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -Once extinct in Denmark, the white stork is making a comeback with the highest number of nestlings in decades, sparking hope it may once again become a familiar sight in the Nordic country. Thirty-three stork nestlings were born to 13 nesting pairs in the Danish countryside in 2025, up from 15 last year and the highest number since the 1980s, according to Storks Denmark, a volunteer group working to support the species' return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The white stork population, once thriving with some 4,000 nesting pairs in Denmark in the late 19th century, saw a sharp decline due to the expansion of agriculture and the loss of wetlands, leading to its local extinction in 2008. The population rebound is primarily attributed to changing migration patterns due to warmer weather and conservation efforts, though challenges remain. "The way we have our agriculture is not leaving much space for the stork," said Hans Skov, a board member of Storks Denmark. In Danish folklore, storks are associated with the arrival of spring and good fortune and having a nest on your roof was considered a protective charm for the household. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As climate change warms European winters, storks are increasingly wintering in Spain rather than South Africa, enhancing survival rates through shorter migration distances. Denmark's Natural History Museum is tagging five additional nestlings this year with GPS devices to follow the storks' migration paths. Storks migrating up to Germany are also pushing further north into Denmark but face challenges in finding sufficient food for their young. Storks Denmark is spending around 30,000 Danish crowns ($4,700) annually to provide food, with nest owners supplementing by setting out chicken or fish daily to sustain the nestlings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grethe Mortensen, who gave her husband a stork nest for their backyard as a birthday gift in 2023, expressed optimism about the species' long-term prospects. "I want them to keep coming here to Denmark ... and I hope that something is done for the storks so they can survive on their own," she said. ($1 = 6.3802 Danish crowns) (Reporting by Ali Withers, writing by Stine Jacobsen, editing by Sharon Singleton) DAVIDSON COUNTY The town of Dentons former fire chief has been arrested and accused of falsifying the Denton Fire Departments records, the N.C. Department of Insurance announced last week. Brandon Allen Dorsett, 37, was charged with misusing government computers and two counts of fraud, all felonies. Dorsett is accused of using the towns computers to falsely report the Denton Fire Departments training records and certified rosters between March 1, 2021, and July 10, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other information about the charges or the investigation was released. In past cases involving similar allegations at other fire departments, the reported motive for falsifying the records was an effort to get a higher fire insurance protection rating for the fire department. North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said when announcing the arrest that while all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, firefighters and members of the town need to know that the fire departments actions are above board. Firefighters are dedicated public servants and sacrifice a lot to protect their community. Davidson County deputies arrested Dorsett on Friday, July 11. He was released on $10,000 unsecured bond. He is scheduled to appear in Davidson County District Court on Aug. 4. Denton town officials had acknowledged in April that state officials were investigating the fire department but said little about it. Travis Morris was appointed as interim fire chief on April 30. DENVER (KDVR) Two bats in Denver neighborhoods tested positive for rabies earlier this month, marking the first two positive cases of 2025 in the city, according to Denver Animal Protection. The first rabies-positive bat of the year in Denver was found on July 8 in the Sloan Lake neighborhood, according to a DAP press release. A family in Highlands reported the second rabies-positive bat on July 17. Breckenridge bat positive for rabies, suspected to have come in contact with dog Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DAP warned Denver residents to be cautious after the discovery because rabies, a viral disease that affects the nervous system, is almost always fatal if symptoms develop. Rabies is found in animals saliva and is most commonly transmitted to people and pets through bites from rabid animals. For bats, small teeth may cause bites to go unnoticed. Thats why it is crucial for pet owners to keep their animals up to date on their rabies vaccinations, DAP said. DAP also recommended people to: Avoid all contact with bats and other wild animals. Do not sleep with open, unscreened windows or doors. If bats are seen inside a Denver house or other structure, close off the area and call DAP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do not leave pet food outside where it will attract wild animals. Immediately wash all animal bites with soap and water, thoroughly flushing the wound, and then contact your doctor. If you come into contact with an animal positive for rabies, you may be started on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which can prevent the development of rabies. Report all animal bites or scratches to DAP. DAP said bats are common in Colorado, and the agency regularly picks up bats from peoples homes throughout the summer. Any bat, or skunk, raccoon, bat, coyote, or fox, that has come in contact with a pet or been handled by a person has to be euthanized and tested for rabies, so DAP said anyone who encounters one of these animals should not approach and keep a safe distance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DAP said it tests any bats that have had confirmed or suspected contact with a person or pet, but if there is no contact, it will release the bats back into the wild. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. DENVER (KDVR) If you rely on the King Soopers on Arapahoe Road in Centennial, a heads up: The location will be closing next month, according to a spokesperson. The news comes after the stores parent company, Kroger, announced plans in late June to close 60 stores across the U.S., citing efforts to improve profits. The people say no: Colorado 150 pedestrian bridge receives overwhelming survey results Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, we have made the difficult decision to close our King Soopers store located at 5050 E Arapahoe Road in Centennial, a King Soopers spokesperson told FOX31. While we are leaving this location, we will offer each impacted associate the opportunity to transfer to a new location. This closure is part of a larger company-wide decision to run more efficiently and ensure the long-term health of our business. The company said the store will close on Aug. 16 and said it does not have further details to share. Its not been the easiest past few years for King Soopers, Kroger and other grocery chains. A proposed multi-billion-dollar merger that Kroger and Albertsons had worked to complete for years was denied and abandoned in late 2024. Then, union workers from Kroger-owned King Soopers and City Market went on strike earlier this year. Most recently, union workers with Safeway, owned by Albertsons Co., went on strike as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members of UFCW Local 7R voted this month to ratify the Safeway/Albertsons contract, as did union members working for King Soopers and City Market. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The state Department of Environmental Protection sent the Keystone Sanitary Landfill a letter Friday addressing deficiencies in its 10-year operating permit renewal application notably pointing out significantly underestimated leachate generation while calling for additional air monitoring and odor mitigation plans. The Louis and Dominick DeNaples-owned landfill in Dunmore and Throop is required to renew its operating permit every 10 years, with its current permit set to expire Oct. 6 after the DEP extended it by six months in April to give itself additional time to evaluate the landfills odor control and leachate management. Leachate is the liquid that percolates through garbage piles. Addressed to Site Manager Dominick DeNaples Jr., the permit renewal application letter addresses leachate generation that is already nearly 80% higher than the landfills peak projections during its Phase III expansion, the potential harms from the landfills disposal of leftover waste after it treats its leachate, odor and gas management, and air quality monitoring, among other items. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DEP extended the permit after the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board, or EHB, remanded the landfills 42.4-year Phase III expansion back to the department. Grassroots group Friends of Lackawanna, which formed in 2014 to oppose the landfill and its expansion, appealed the expansion approval in July 2021, taking it to the five-member panel of environmental judges. The Sierra Club, a California-based nonprofit organization with a local and statewide presence, later joined Friends of Lackawanna in the appeal as an intervening party. The EHB ruled April 1 that the DEP erred in approving the massive expansion June 3, 2021, by issuing a permit that does not sufficiently control or mitigate issues with odors and excessive leachate generation, which the judges said the DEP was aware of prior to approving the expansion. The controversial Phase III expansion, which Keystone applied for in 2014, allows the landfill to haul in an additional 94 million tons of garbage, or about 188 billion pounds, into the 2060s, significantly extending Keystones life by more than four decades. The ruling did not overturn the expansion, but it does require the DEP to review whether additional measures are needed in the landfills permitting to control offsite odors and excess leachate generation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its April extension letter, the DEP said it will also use the additional time to evaluate the effectiveness of Keystones odor control and leachate management measures that were required under a March 2024 consent order and agreement. The consent order was the culmination of 14 odor-related violations since January 2023 following nearly 1,000 odor complaints in seven months, as well as DEP staff detecting offsite landfill gas and leachate odors attributed to Keystone at least 70 times. The landfill had to pay a $575,000 fine and was required to undergo 26 corrective actions to manage its odors and address its leachate. Those corrective actions will eventually expire if not added to Keystones permitting. The landfills April 2024 permit renewal application estimated that, as of March 20, 2024, it had about 104.7 million tons of remaining capacity. Thats enough to bury about 3,834 Statues of Liberty, including the statues 54,000,000-pound concrete base, according to statistics from the National Park Service. The DEPs letter, written by David F. Matcho, P.E., the environmental engineering manager at DEPs Waste Management Program, asks the landfill to reevaluate its maximum leachate generation, pointing out that in 2024, the landfills average leachate generation was approximately 227,000 gallons per day enough leachate to fill a 660,000-gallon Olympic-sized pool in just under three days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the landfill projects that its peak leachate generation is only 127,644 gallons per day in its permit renewal application, according to DEP. The landfill also used the 127,644-gallon-per-day figure during its Phase III expansion approval process. The letter also addresses the landfills disposal of reverse osmosis concentrate on its working face, with Keystone disposing of between approximately 20,000 gallons and 67,000 gallons per day. Keystone pretreats its leachate on site using a process called reverse osmosis, which removes contaminants by forcing the leachate through a membrane under high pressure, before piping the liquid to Pennsylvania American Waters treatment plant. Reverse osmosis concentrate is the waste left behind after the leachate is treated. The DEP asked the landfill to provide an analysis of the effect of reverse osmosis reject disposal on leachate generation, as well to provide data showing the impact the concentrated waste has had on the quality of leachate, reverse osmosis efficiency and leachate odors. Further, the letter instructs the landfill to provide plans to reduce the volume of reverse osmosis concentrate being generated, and the reduction or elimination of its disposal onsite, including data showing the impact of hauling the concentrate offsite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because the landfill installed its reverse osmosis units after the DEP conducted a harms/benefits analysis an analysis that ultimately concluded the benefits of the expansion outweighed the known and potential harms the DEP also asked Keystone to identify and fully describe the impact generation and disposal of RO concentrate has on potential harms and describe proposed mitigation for these impacts. Those potential harms impacted could include slope stability, leachate generation rates, leachate quality if disposed of at the landfill, odors and truck traffic if disposed of off-site, according to the DEP. Additionally, the DEP asked the landfill to provide a plan to address odors from its leachate treatment plant, reevaluate the planned use of horizontal gas collection devices as part of its overall gas collection system, reevaluate the maximum acreage of temporary capping it can use on waste to properly manage odors and leachate, and to perform another round of comprehensive air monitoring and enhanced onsite underground gas migration monitoring once an updated air monitoring plan is approved. In a phone interview Tuesday afternoon, Pat Clark, a leader of Friends of Lackawanna, said at this point, no data or facts coming from the landfill will surprise anyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been no evidence whatsoever that the problems and burdens and harms associated with this growth are going to slow down, he said. In fact, quite the opposite has been shown to be the case. All of these problems and burdens are just getting larger and bigger. The permit application letter is clearly a reflection of the DEP taking into consideration the Environmental Hearing Boards order, Clark said. We are pleased that the DEP is taking that into consideration and hopefully taking it seriously, he said, citing the landfills excessive leachate generation beyond its peak projections. There are going to be problems, and these problems keep growing. The interesting question is going to be whether or not DEP is actually, finally, going to do something about it, or are they going to continue as they have for the past 10 years or 20 years or 30 years to give KSL infinite bites at this apple to pass their test. The department gave the landfill 60 calendar days to respond to the July 18 letter. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) The Youngstown Connection is taking its final bow Saturday. Generations of city-school students participated in the elite choir, which took them to places around the world. WKBN 27 First News Community Affairs Coordinator Dee Crawford sits down with the choirs founder, Dr. Carol Baird, as she gets ready to say goodbye. In 1988, Baird was serving as the director of Fine and Performing Arts for Youngstown City Schools. She saw rivalries developing between the then five high schools and wanted to ease the tension. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had just started downtown as supervisor and had taught at South High School, and I saw I was out in the schools all the time. I lived out in the buildings. I wanted to get acquainted with the staff and see what programs were going on and become acquainted with the students as well. And there was so much rivalry, and it had reached the level of animosity between the five high schools. And I thought there should be a way to break that down. And so I tried to think of what I could do to help that and the Connection. I had a vision of the Connection. I knew it was a God given vision, Baird said. The Youngstown Connection brought together students from various high schools. They performed not only locally but in Washington, D.C., at the Berlin Wall in Germany, at the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, on cruise ships and at the Worlds Fair. They were an elite group. The theme is brotherhood, and has remained the same over the years as hundreds of students have passed through the program. The grand finale concert will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, at Austintown Fitch High School. A large group of alumni is expected to perform. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LIBERTY, S.C. (WSPA) Deputies with the Anderson County Sheriffs Office are asking the public for information about a man who was last seen Tuesday morning. David Jeremiah Smith was seen on Christopher Lane in Liberty around 6:30 a.m., officials said. He was wearing a gray polo shirt, blue jeans and black Skecher slip-on shoes. Investigators said Smith has medical issues and urged anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to call the sheriffs office at (864) 260-440 and use case number 2025-09392. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tips can also be submitted anonymously online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kateryna Chernohorenko, Ukraines Deputy Minister of Defence for Digital Development, has announced that she is stepping down after almost two years in the position. Source: Kateryna Chernohorenko on Facebook Quote from Chernohorenko: "This was the toughest and most responsible job of my life, [with] the coolest team who feared no challenge, generated new ideas, and have implemented a completely different approach to service transformation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Chernohorenko did not elaborate on the reasons for her resignation or her future plans. However, she noted that during her time at the Ministry of Defence, tools have been created "that strengthen defence and deliver efficiency, humanity and freedom of choice". These included the Reserve+ and Army+ systems, the DELTA combat platform, the DOT-Chain logistics solution, the launch of a space programme, the strengthening of cyber defence, and international partnerships. Chernohorenko thanked Defence Minister Rustem Umierov for his confidence in her, and her team for working 16-hour days and caring about users' problems. Quote from Chernohorenko: "We have set high standards for efficiency, and I sincerely hope that subsequent chief digital transformation officers will continue to move forward at the same pace. With a team like this, we cant afford to slow down. Something remarkable has happened the Ministry of Defence can no longer avoid digitalisation." Background: On 18 July, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appointed former defence minister Rustem Umierov as Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council. Referring to Umierov's tasks in this role, Zelenskyy also emphasised the need to "intensify negotiation efforts" with Russia. "The implementation of the agreements reached at the second meeting in Istanbul is currently underway. We need more momentum in this process," he said. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Gov. Ron DeSantis assault on local government spending comes even as his own office has spent millions of taxpayer dollars through no-bid contracts distributed under authority he gains by keeping Florida under a continued state of emergency. DeSantis and his newly appointed Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia are demanding extensive finance and spending data from Florida cities and counties, many of which the Republican leaders accuse of misusing taxpayer dollars. I think theres problems in local governments, DeSantis recently said in Fort Lauderdale, where he promoted the arrival of audit teams from the CFOs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis wants the Republican-dominated Legislature to put on next years ballot a still-to-be-defined proposal to overhaul property taxes, likely reducing the basic fuel of city and county governments. The term-limited governor, whose successor will be elected on that same November ballot, is certain to use any excessive spending or waste unearthed by auditors as a defense against pushback from cities and counties, whose officials already warn that his idea could lead to reductions in public services, including police and fire. But the administrations aggressive approach made its goal clear: We are on a mission to prove there is a whole lot of stuff they dont want to cut that they can cut, Ingoglia said. More targets in sight, potentially in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties Some of the early targets for audits are the Democratic-leaning locales of Broward County and the city of Gainesville. DeSantis said more will be singled out in coming weeks, including Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Absent from DeSantis and Ingoglias auditing pitches, though, is any re-evaluation of the governors own spending practices. DeSantis has steered at least $225 million of taxpayer money into no-bid contracts to build the migrant processing center called Alligator Alcatraz, west of Miami in the Florida Everglades. The no-bid deals are allowed under a state of emergency on immigration that he signed in 2023 and has since extended 15 times, giving him extraordinary power. The South Florida facility, which can hold at least 3,000 detainees, is expected to cost another $450 million a year to run. DeSantis says that cost will be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency which President Trump wants to close by years end. Along with removing details on 11 of the no-bid contracts from a public database after the media began reporting on them, the DeSantis administration has rebuffed questions from critics about the spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here you have a state government operating a half-a-billion-dollar, no-bid contract; sent to a facility in the middle of the Everglades; hiding contracts from the public; not answering any questions about basic operations and maintenance and doing it under an outdated emergency order, said Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, who demanded that DeSantis rescind his executive order on immigration. Eskamani, who is running for Orlando mayor in 2027, acknowledged that city and county governments always should look for opportunities to be smarter with spending. Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at the swearing-in ceremony for Blaise Ingoglia, who now serves as the Florida Chief Financial Officer, Monday, July 21, 2025. At play: 'Pure political ideology,' critic says But this is not about good governance. This is just about pure political ideology, she added, on DeSantis push to mimic the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency, formerly headed by billionaire Elon Musk, who clashed with Trump over legislation adding $3.4 trillion to the federal deficit over the next decade. DeSantis' reliance on emergency orders to hand out no-bid contracts began in earnest during the COVID-19 pandemic, when at least two dozen deals worth hundreds of millions of dollars were approved for supplies, staffing and vaccine centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The waves of no-bid contracts provide little transparency or signs that there was competition for these taxpayer dollars. Nomi Health, a Utah company that received at least $50 million for COVID-related work, later poured $100,000 into DeSantis political committee. In unleashing audits of local governments, DeSantis cited examples where Broward County and Gainesville experienced only modest population growth recently but still forged ahead with significant budget expansion. Tax revenue collections had climbed, the governor said, powered mostly by rising property values that drew dollars into government even when tax rates held steady. DeSantis said tax rates should be going down instead. While the governor praised the state's budget for declining each of the past two years and for his having reduced state debt, he did not acknowledge that the $117.4 billion spending plan also benefited from rising property values. Florida budget aided by boost in property values The states $945.1 million increase in state education spending relied mostly on higher property tax collections. More than $579 million of the boost came from local property owners, under the states so-called required local effort, or RLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, DeSantis is criticizing cities and counties from similarly benefiting from rising home values. No state has yet eliminated property taxes altogether. In Florida, they are the biggest source of dollars for 51 of 67 counties and almost half of the states 411 cities. Still, while property taxes finance most local services, DeSantis is tapping into what could be a rising frustration for many owners. Legislature handcuffed cities... Florida law handcuffs cities, boosts building and rebuilding. Is it a 'developer handout'? State GOP leaders grab from locals... Florida's GOP-led Legislature aims to limit the power of city, county governments Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than $55 billion in property taxes flowed to counties, cities, school boards and Floridas special districts last year more than double what was collected in 2014. Its 46% higher than the amount taken in statewide just four years ago, state records show. But while tax receipts rose 13% in each of 2022 and 2023, last years 8% rise reflected that house prices and sales were falling or at least leveling off. Still, DeSantis call for a property tax overhaul next year may still be a long shot. Although Republicans command the Legislature, 60% approval is needed in the House and Senate to put a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot. Then, at least 60% of voters statewide must approve the measure for it to become law. Is audit tour the 'next act' of DeSantis' 'political theater'? Jeff Brandes, a Republican former state senator from Pinellas County, questioned DeSantis latest effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandes, who now runs the Florida Policy Project research group, said theres nothing wrong with scrutinizing spending by cities and counties. But whatever Ingoglias teams find and hold up as shocking examples of waste is likely also present in state government. Hed earlier ridiculed DeSantis spending on the Everglades migrant center: Were saying it is not supposed to be the Ritz-Carlton, but were paying Ritz-Carlton prices. Brandes said its clear the governor has not proposed a tax-cutting plan because it will be so difficult to defend. This is the political theater of Florida, and this is just the next act, Brandes said. If he was serious about cutting taxes, why is he waiting until year seven of his administration to do this? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 targets local officials, but no talk of own no-bid spending The Muscogee Nation has been ordered by its highest court to recognize descendants of the tribe's former slaves as tribal citizens. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court agreed with two Freedmen descendants, Rhonda Grayson and Jeffrey Kennedy, that the tribe should grant them citizenship. The court also directed the tribal nation's citizenship board to issue citizenship to any applicant who can prove lineage to people listed on the 1906 Creek Freedmen Dawes Roll. For descendants of slaves who were held by tribal members or who lived within the Muscogee reservation after slavery was abolished, the court's ruling on Wednesday, July 23, is a long-awaited affirmation that they deserve the same rights and privileges of other tribal members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision could eventually lead to Muscogee citizenship for thousands of people, including some who have tried for decades to be recognized as Muscogee Creek citizens. As Creek Freedmen, weve always carried the truth of who we are. Today, that truth was recognized," said Damario Solomon-Simmons, the lead attorney who represented Grayson and Kennedy as their case worked its way through the Muscogee Nation court system for years. "This decision affirms our place in the nation not as outsiders, but as citizens," Solomon-Simmons said in a statement. "Were ready to walk forward together, guided by our elders, our communities, and our shared hope for what comes next." Attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons speaks to media outlets Dec. 1, 2022, after plaintiffs and supporters attended a preliminary hearing regarding whether the Muscogee Nation is violating the terms of an 1866 treaty by not recognizing descendants of Freedmen as citizens outside the Muscogee Creek Nation National Council Supreme Court building in Okmulgee. Muscogee Nation may consider asking tribe's Supreme Court to reconsider In a statement, Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill indicated he and other tribal officials may ask the tribe's Supreme Court to reconsider the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are currently reviewing the order to understand its basis as well as its implications for our processes," Hill said. "It may be necessary to ask for a reconsideration of this order to receive clarity so that we can ensure that we move forward in a legal constitutional manner." The tribal nation has a variety of programs to assist citizens; those programs could see an influx of demand as a result of the ruling. The case hinged on how the court would interpret two key documents that disagreed about who gets to be a tribal citizen. The first is an 1866 treaty with the United States that abolished slavery in the tribe and granted rights to Freedmen and their descendants. The second is the tribe's 1979 constitution that limits citizenship to only those who can trace their lineage back to an enrolled Muscogee citizen by blood." Ultimately, the Muscogee Nation Supreme Court ruled that the 1866 treaty is law. The treaty with the United States explicitly said that freed slaves and their descendants "shall have and enjoy all the rights and privileges of native citizens, including an equal interest in the soil and national funds, and the laws of (the MCN) shall be equally binding upon and give equal protection to all such persons." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling landed six weeks after the court heard arguments in the case. Two of the Supreme Court's seven justices recused themselves and did not take part in the July 23 decision. More: Opinion: Victory for Muscogee (Creek) Freedmen is a victory for tribal sovereignty Muscogee Nation courts have ruled against Freedmen in previous citizenship cases, and some descendants have been fighting for decades to obtain recognition. That includes Ron Graham, who has trying to have his citizenship recognized by the MCN since 1983. "It's my identity, just as being American, Graham told The Oklahoman in 2023. "I'm proud to be an American. I'm proud to be Creek." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chattel slavery became part of Muscogee, Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw and Seminole societies as the practice spread with colonization. The tribes formally ended slavery in treaties signed with the United States after the Civil War; the MCN's treaty is at the heart of the current case. The Cherokee Nation approved a new constitution in 2021 that extends full citizenship rights to Freedmen. In 2022, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs questioned representatives from each of the Five Tribes about the status of Freedmen. Contributing: Molly Young This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Court rules Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizenship includes Freedmen President Donald Trumps daughter-in-law Lara Trump has claimed that his administration will probably release more documents about Jeffrey Epstein, despite his repeated statements to the contrary. In an interview with right-wing broadcaster Benny Johnson on Monday, Lara Trump who is married to Trumps son Eric said the President wanted to set things right and would release more documents sooner rather than later. There's no great plot to keep this information away that I'm aware of. I just believe that maybe it's been slow-rolled, for reasons that hopefully we understand down the line, the Fox News host and former Republican Party official told Johnson. Lara Trump defends her father in law's handling of the Epstein controversy in an interview with Benny Johnson on Monday (X/Benny Johnson) Her answer contradicted the Trump administrations announcement last week there is actually no Epstein client list and that no further disclosures are appropriate or warranted, as well as Trumps own pleading with his supporters to drop the subject. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That came after many months of Trump officials and outriders trumpeting the imminent release of bombshell secret Epstein documents, including the convicted sex offender financiers supposed client list. The abrupt about-face sparked fury among Trumps fan base, who had been primed to expect the unraveling of a vast child abuse conspiracy centered on Trumps political opponents. Look, I dont know what truly exists there, but I know this is something thats important to the president as well, Lara Trump said in her interview with Johnson. He does want transparency on all these fronts, everything were talking about. Because its frustrated him as well. He sat for four years like the rest of us did and saw lie after lie and our country just being sent down the wrong path... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know this is probably not his number one thing hes focused on... but he hears all the noise, and he hears all the consternation out there, and I think hes gonna want to set things right as well. So I believe that there will probably be more coming on this, and I believe anything that they are able to release that doesnt damage any witnesses or anyone underage, or anything like that I believe theyll probably try to get out sooner rather than later. Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender, died in jail in 2019 (Getty) Trumps own statements have set a very different tone, suggesting that the so-called Epstein files were merely a hoax concocted by his enemies in order to persecute him. We have a PERFECT Administration, THE TALK OF THE WORLD, and selfish people are trying to hurt it all over a guy who never dies, Jeffrey Epstein, he said on his social network Truth Social on Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For years, its Epstein, over and over again... lets not waste Time and Energy on Jeffrey Epstein, somebody that nobody cares about. At a press conference last week, he also admonished a reporter who asked him about Epstein, saying: "This guy's been talked about for years... we have Texas, we have this, we have all of the things. And are people are still talking about this guy, this creep? That is unbelievable." Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins British socialite girlfriend, was separately convicted over helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls (AP) Epsteins own abuse of minors has been extensively documented, and his madam Ghislaine Maxwell was criminally convicted for her role in trafficking girls for him. Allegations he also provided victims to rich and powerful clients have never been definitively proven. Thousands of pages of documents have already been made public, including Epsteins address book. The term Epstein list often simply means a list of all the people mentioned in these documents, which includes victims and bystanders as well as alleged associates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in recent years, Trump and his allies have embraced the idea that there is another list the government is covering up: a client list containing the names of everyone who abused girls trafficked by Epstein. That was red meat for the ardently conspiracist MAGA movement and the professional fantasists who sustain it, many of whom see Epstein as merely the tip of an iceberg involving more fanciful theories such as QAnon. On Sunday the official account of Sesame Street muppet Elmo even weighed in, having been temporarily taken over by an unknown hacker. "RELEASE THE FILES @realDonaldTrump CHILD F*****," wrote the hacker, in between calls for genocide against Jews. New details emerge about Karen Read grand juror who leaked info on federal investigation The grand juror who admitted to leaking sealed information on the federal investigation into the Karen Read murder case has worked for the state of Massachusetts for nearly a decade, Boston 25 News has learned. Jessica Leslie, 34, of Dracut, will serve supervised release as part of a plea deal after she admitted earlier this month to leaking information presented to a federal grand jury to unauthorized individuals, including the names of various witnesses. On Wednesday, a DCF spokesperson confirmed that Leslie has been employed by the Department of Children and Families since 2015, but additional details on her role within the department werent immediately available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to state confidentiality requirements, the Department cannot comment on personnel matters, the spokesperson told Boston 25. Under the Commonwealths Collective Bargaining Agreement with the social workers union, Leslie will be required to notify the state about her admission of guilt in the case, and she could face reassignment or suspension if her plea of guilt is deemed a risk to the department or public trust, Boston 25 learned. Federal prosecutors alleged that Leslies leaks occurred between August 2022 and March 2024. Read, who was under investigation in connection with the murder of her Boston police officer boyfriend, faced no federal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, a Norfolk Superior Court jury acquitted her of murder and manslaughter in the death of John OKeefe. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW LANCASTER, Pa. (WHTM) Last week, President Donald Trump and Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA) announced private sector investments in Pennsylvania totaling more than $90 billion, which included new data centers coming to the Midstate. Many questions remained, and officials earlier today had answers. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat abc27 news reported last week when plans to construct new data centers in York and Lancaster counties were first announced. The data center in York County will be the result of a $5 billion investment, and the Lancaster County data center will bring a $6 billion investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier today, officials met at the site of the future Lancaster County data center to discuss more details about the projects for starters, where they will be located. According to officials, these data centers will be constructed at the former RR Donnelly buildings located at 1375 Harrisburg Pike in Peach Bottom Township, York County, and at 216 Greenfield Road in Lancaster County. Following last weeks announcement, many residents also had questions regarding these data centers, such as land use, noise, water usage, energy affordability, and economic impact. Lancaster City Mayor Danene Sorace says Lancasters new data center will not rely on large volumes of water from the city for cooling purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As it relates to power usage, David Kelly of Carissa Technology Parks said he couldnt speak to the exact rates used by the data centers but confirmed it would be minimal. I think we will do a town hall in about a month to address any questions on that, but we are working with PPL to reinforce the grid, Kelly explained. We are paying for our substation, [and] the two substations on site. In terms of us actually adding to the cost, its very minimal. Mayor Sorace concluded by saying that this investment is a big win for Lancaster taxpayers because of all the new tax revenue it will generate and the new jobs it will create. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A Newton police officer charged with murder is now out on bond. Lt. Carlos Uribe posted a $100,000 bond Tuesday afternoon. In court, prosecutors laid out new details about why they say Uribe unlawfully killed a man while on duty. Uribe stood in a jumpsuit before a judge Tuesday on a second-degree murder charge, accused of unlawfully using deadly force while on duty, killing 21-year-old Camden Childers on June 26. Carlos Alverto Uribe. (Catawba County Sheriffs Office) That night, investigators say they were initially trying to pull over Childers on his motorcycle for speeding and reckless driving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said Childers didnt stop. On Tuesday in court, prosecutors gave new details, saying police chased Childers three separate times during that one incident. The last chase was into a neighborhood cul-de-sac on Northern Drive NW. Prosecutors say another officer was telling Childers to put his hands up, and prosecutors say while Childers clearly had his hands up, they were empty, and there was no indication that he had a weapon. Prosecutors say Uribe kicked Childers in his abdomen, knocking him to the ground, and thats when the police officer fired one shot at Childers chest. Childers was killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say Uribe was heard on scene saying, Thats what you get for going for an officers gun. But prosecutors say thats not at all what happened based on body camera video. They say Childers posed no threat to Uribe and that deadly force was not justified. Uribe remains on administrative leave without pay with the Newton Police Department. Theres also an internal investigation going on. The police chief wont comment due to the ongoing legal proceedings. But District Attorney Scott Reilly had plenty to say. The District Attorney sent the following statement: In my six years as District Attorney, I have reviewed approximately 15 officer-involved shootings. In each of those cases, the use of force was found to be legally justified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have great respect for the professionalism and restraint shown by the men and women in law enforcement throughout our district, even in the most dangerous of situations. I recognize the difficulty and gravity of the decisions officers face on a daily basis. When the line is crossed when excessive or unlawful force results in a loss of life my obligation is to the law and to justice. That duty requires accountability, regardless of profession or position. Justice is about fairness, due process and equal application of the law. No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. When a boat capsized on Lake Tahoe in California last month amid large waves, killing eight people on board including a DoorDash executive, the only two survivors were found wearing or clinging to a life vest, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. The eight people killed in the incident were not wearing life vests, according to a preliminary report on the accident released by the NTSB on Wednesday. The report details the worsening conditions on the lake, including reports of 8- to 10-foot waves, high winds and hail, that resulted in the 28-foot Chris-Craft vessel capsizing on June 21 in what the victims' family members said was "meant to be a joyful time on the lake." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The National Weather Service had issued no marine warnings or small craft advisories for the Lake Tahoe area for the day, although the local forecast indicated a slight chance of thunderstorms," the report stated. MORE: DoorDash exec among 8 dead after boat capsizes on Lake Tahoe: Authorities The outing began at approximately noon under clear skies, though about two hours after the boat went out to Emerald Bay on the western side of Lake Tahoe, the operator decided to return to the marina when clouds increased, according to the report. "However, after getting underway, the winds, rain, and waves increased, and he decided to return to Emerald Bay," the report stated. National Transportation Safety Board - PHOTO: The capsized boat is seen post-accident in a photo released by the National Transportation Safety Board. The operator tried to return to the marina again about 10 minutes later. Once away from Emerald Bay, a survivor told investigators that "2- to 3-foot waves splashed into the boat with the pouring rain," the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winds started to increase, marble-sized hail began collecting in the boat and the waves swelled to 8 to 10 feet, according to the report. Water started to accumulate on the boat deck and the operator turned on the bilge pumps, the NTSB said. It started to snow in the area, and winds around that time were recorded at 14 knots, with a peak wind of 34 knots (about 40 mph), according to the report. When the vessel was about 50 to 100 yards offshore, the engine stopped and the boat "ended up sideways" to the waves, the report said. Some of the passengers tried to bail the water out, as the boat became partially submerged, according to the report. MORE: Missing 22-year-old Wisconsin graduate student found dead in the Mississippi River One of the passengers put on a life vest and distributed them to everyone else in the boat, though no one else immediately put them on, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Shortly after, the boat rolled over to starboard, and the passengers entered the water," the report stated. "The survivor recalled that it started snowing after the boat rolled over while the people were in the water." No distress calls were made from the boat, according to the report. At approximately 3 p.m., a group of hikers saw the boat capsize "after a large wave washed over it," and one of the hikers called 911, the report stated. Another hiker and a California State Parks lifeguard helped recover the two survivors from the water, one of whom was wearing a life vest while the other was clinging to a life vest, according to the report. They were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Petty Officer 1st Class Justin Smith/USCG - PHOTO: The U.S. Coast Guard released this photo of a capsized boat in Lake Tahoe on June 21, 2025. Six people, including the operator, were recovered and pronounced dead on the scene. The remaining two passengers were recovered from the lake bottom the following day, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation into the accident remains ongoing, the NTSB said. Among those killed in the incident was Josh Pickles, who spent nearly seven years working as the global head of strategic sourcing and procurement within the finance team at DoorDash. Pickles' parents, Terry Pickles and Paula Bozinovich, and uncle, Peter Bayes, were also killed in the incident, according to his wife, Jordan Sugar-Carlsgaard. "No words can express the pain and anguish we feel knowing their lives were lost during what was meant to be a joyful time on the lake. Our hearts go out to those who tragically lost their lives and the two survivors of this unexpected and deadly storm on Lake Tahoe," Sugar-Carlsgaard said in a statement following the incident. Coca-Cola is launching a cane sugar version of its flagship soda in the U.S., with CFO John Murphy confirming to Fortune that President Trump has endorsed the initiative that has been in development for 12-18 months. The move comes as the beverage giant works to address recent sales challenges in America, including lingering effects from a viral misinformation campaign and affordability pressures on lower-income consumers. Coca-Cola is moving forward with plans to launch a cane sugar version of its flagship soda in the U.S. market, with chief financial officer John Murphy confirming that President Donald Trump has endorsed the initiative following his recent social media claims. In an interview with Fortune, Murphy said the cane sugar variant has been in our pipeline for some time and typically requires 12-18 months from development to launch. He is a big supporter of the option, Murphy said of Trump. He has heard about it and is a big fan of the option. Its certainly been well reported. Pressed for specifics on whether the cane sugar Coke will channel the Mexican Coke modelpopular in the U.S. for its glass bottles and distinctive tasteMurphy said: I think for commercial reasons, Im going to wait until the U.S. team is ready to divulge all the details, so more to come on that in a couple weeks. Murphy emphasized that expanding product options reflects broader market demand: Here in the U.S. there is just so much demand for variants and new options on both existing and the new. This [Coke made with cane sugar] is an option for the Coke portfolio and one were excited about. Fake viral TikTok video hit Coke sales Chief Financial Officer of Coca-Cola John Murphy. The announcement comes as Coca-Cola navigates a challenging market environment. Coke reported second quarter results for 2025 on Tuesday, showing modest revenue growth driven by pricing and mix, significantly higher operating income and margins, and strong brand engagement despite a small global volume decline. Murphy attributed recent softness in U.S. and Latin America sales to two primary factors: lingering effects from a viral misinformation campaign and pressure on lower-income consumers. A false TikTok video that circulated in February claimed the company was collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security on deportations of Hispanics from the U.S. to Mexico. It was clearly false, but it went viral and for a period of six weeks or so, it had a significant short-term impact on the business in Texas, California, and in Mexico, Murphy explained. The company has been recovering from that incident, but Murphy noted that affordability remains a challenge for lower-income consumers. ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. (WRBL) A second man is now facing a capital murder charge in connection to a deadly home invasion which left a well-known Alexander City father dead over the weekend. According to investigators, Joshua Etchison was formally charged with Capital Murder during a Robbery on Tuesday, July 22. He had already been in custody on the alleged burglary of an unoccupied storage shed around 2:00 a.m. on July 19. Investigators allege Etchison and Steven Abercrombie were involved in the early morning burglary. Just hours later, Abercrombie and Etchison allegedly forced their way into a home on Washington Street, demanded money, and shot the victim multiple times. The victim, Toyias Gopher, was a father of three and a well-liked, well-known member of the Alexander City community. He was pronounced dead at the scene around 10:45 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abercrombie was arrested and charged with capital murder later that evening, on July 19. Etchison remained in jail on the burglary charge until the upgraded capital murder charge was filed three days later, on July 22. Authorities have not yet explained why Etchison was charged later than Abercrombie. Court documents previously referenced an unknown co-defendant in the home invasion, which now appears to be Etchison. Etchison remains in the Tallapoosa County Jail without bond. Abercrombie was transferred to Russell County Detention on no bond. Screenshot The Tallapoosa County District Attorneys Office has recused itself from the case, citing a conflict of interest. Abercrombie is related to an employee in the DAs office. The case is now being handled by the Alabama Attorney Generals Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District Judge Kevin Hall has also recused himself. A special district judge has been appointed to oversee the proceedings. The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Wayne County prosecutors brought additional charges Wednesday against a man and woman accused of vandalizing Detroit's Guardian Building with a slingshot over the weekend, alleging they also broke a window at 36th District Court. The added malicious destruction of a building charges against Ramzu Yunus, 49, of Highland Park, and Angela Williams, 57, of Waldorf, Maryland, come as the prosecutor's office reviews an additional warrant request for damage sustained by the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center Friday. Holes were discovered in seven first-story windows at the city-county building on Woodward Friday morning, just before 5 a.m., according to a Detroit police official and Sharon Banks, a spokeswoman for the authority managing the building. Police said at a news conference that they believed a pellet or BB gun was used and that the suspects had been caught on surveillance video. The Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in downtown Detroit on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. The Wayne County Probate court is located in the tower. Yunus and Williams are accused of targeting Detroit's 36th District Court and Guardian Building on Saturday, just before 5 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were charged with a count of malicious destruction of a building between $1,000 and $20,000 for each case on Tuesday and Wednesday. Yunus was also charged with gun crimes after police pulled him over downtown Saturday afternoon and found a weapon and ammunition. Yunus is a Black nationalist who has previously urged Detroiters to claim houses owned by the quasi-public Detroit Land Bank Authority in an act of "self-determination." The Land Bank's offices are in the Guardian Building, Detroit's mayor and city council work inside the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, and eviction proceedings are held in 36th District Court. Detroit police investigated Yunus in 2021 after the Land Bank reported he'd convinced more than a dozen people they were entitled to property owned by the agency, through a campaign advertised online as the Detroit Free Housing Program by the Free Housing Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District court records show Yunus was charged in September 2021 with entering a vacant building without written authorization and that the proceedings stalled after he failed to appear for a hearing in 2022. Yunus told media outlet Deadline Detroit at the time that he had issued thousands of "deeds" and was proud of his efforts, adding that many houses had fallen into Land Bank ownership after unjust tax foreclosures. It's unclear whether Yunus and Williams have attorneys, and associates said both remained in jail Wednesday on $50,000 and $25,000 personal bonds, respectively. An associate of Yunus declined to comment on the charges but said of the Highland Park residents activist work, humanitarian rights are not a scam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not like were some organization out here trying to do something against the city, this is humanitarian intervention because of the housing crisis, said Daniel Gutridge Sr., who descried himself as a human rights policy officer operating under international law." Housing a human right and thats what were standing on, he said. Of the vandalism to the municipal center, Detroit Police Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald said Friday, What stands out is the pure stupidity of it. They know exactly where theyre at ... and we're gonna hold you accountable." Violet Ikonomova is an investigative reporter at the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at vikonomova@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit courthouse, city hall hit in wave of downtown vandalism BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (WKRN) Two Chinese nationals are in custody after they allegedly scammed a Williamson County man out of more than half a million dollars. According to the Brentwood Police Department, the scam was very elaborate and involved multiple layers of realistic deception to mislead the victim. In this case the suspected scammers were arrested, but not before the Tennessee man lost nearly $650,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Real estate fraud becomes growing problem in Tennessee An arrest affidavit states the scam began in late April, which is when the victim made the first two payments to the suspects. According to Captain Steve Pepin with the departments Criminal Investigations Division, the victim was identified by a phishing/spam call that he answered. After answering the call, a realistic-sounding woman reportedly claimed to be with the FBI and told the victim that his identity had been compromised. In addition, authorities said the woman told the victim that the cartel was using his identity to commit crimes and his accounts would be frozen as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To avoid losing access to his money, officials said the scammer advised that the man liquidate his cash into gold bars, claiming they would be put in escrow for safekeeping. Its extremely elaborate, not only are there phone calls, there are faxes and documents coming in, Pepin told News 2. They present him with fake investigation all on letter head from the FBI and treasury department. The scammers allegedly made the calls appear as if they were coming from a law enforcement agency. Gamified job scams are on the rise, FTC says: How do they work? According to Brentwood police, once the cash was converted to gold bars, the couriers, posing as treasury agents, met with the victim at his house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities reported the scammers used a secret password Treasury 28with the victim, which was designed to make the him overlook elements that might have been red flags. This victim was told, Do not share what is going with your family. Law enforcement is never going to tell you to not talk to your wife about something like this going on, said Pepin. Fan Zhang and Zhen Chen (Courtesy: Williamson County Sheriffs Office) An arrest affidavit states the scammers met with the victim on April 30 and collected $144,430 in gold bars. Then, on May 8, they returned and took another $504,000 in gold from the same man. One kilo of gold, or 2.2 pounds, is currently trading for approximately $107,800. So it didnt take that big of a box to contain hundreds of thousands of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrest report also states that the victim liquidated his bank accounts, 401K and IRA to purchase the gold bars. Its devastating, expressed Pepin. It sets a family back 20 years. When the suspects requested the victim take out a loan on his property and make a third transaction, the man contacted Brentwood police. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee The police department reportedly recognized the operation, which is known around the nation as the Gold Bar Scam. As a elaborate as this scheme is, they are suspicious about coming in and picking up the gold, so they go through a lot of steps to ensure their safety. So we must go through a lot of steps to make sure they are not on to us, added Pepin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To avoid raising suspicion on the third incident, Pepin said the BPD had the victim do everything he did before, except this time instead of giving the couriers real gold, it was replaced with fake gold. The third meeting took place around 12 p.m. on July 8. Police said thats when two Chinese nationalsidentified as Fan Zhang and Zhen Chenarrived at the mans house. They reportedly came in a Toyota van with New York tags. According to the affidavit, the men stayed in the van for an extended amount of time before Zhang approached the victim. The suspect claimed his name was Richard Wallace and provided the secret password: Treasury 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, when the suspect took the box and walked away, agents and the BPD swooped in and took both men into custody. Both suspects were reportedly read their Miranda Rights, but there was a language barrier and a translator was needed to speak Mandarin. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Fan Zhang (Courtesy: Williamson County Sheriffs Office) Zhen Chen (Courtesy: Williamson County Sheriffs Office) Pepin said the two were low-level mules involved in the operation, adding federal agents were brought in because they can easily navigate the investigation to track down those higher up in the operation, who are most likely abroad. One was a catch-and-release, he has an ICE detainer on him, Pepin told News 2. The other one is here illegally, I think he overstayed a student visa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both men are currently being held in the Williamson County Jail on $500,000 bonds. According to police, the victim is out of all the money he gave to the couriers. Law enforcement is reminding people that legitimate government and law enforcement agencies will never come to your home and pick up gold or cash, adding that if you have any doubts, hang up and call your local 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. RANDOLPH COUNTY The director and CEO of the North Carolina Zoo died July 14 a nearly five-year battle with cancer, the zoo announced. Pat Simmons had led the zoo since 2015. To know Simmons was to love her, the zoo said in its announcement. She was a force to be reckoned with, and she made a significant impact during her tenure at the North Carolina Zoo. Those who worked with Simmons described her as immensely funny, smart, and loved by many. She was a sought-after mentor and counselor, helping many find their true passion. Her legacy in the zoo community will carry on through those she touched throughout her lifetime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before coming to North Carolina, Simmons led the Akron Zoo in Ohio from 1985 to 2014. She was highly respected within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, was chairwoman of its board in 2012 and was appointed to the board of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums from 2015 to 2021. Simmons was nationally and internationally recognized in the zoo and aquarium industry, receiving numerous awards and appointments in support of wildlife conservation, sustainability, and women in leadership roles. Simmons spearheaded planning for growth at the North Carolina Zoo that will begin with the 12.5-acre Asia region, set to open in June 2026, the first major expansion at the North Carolina Zoo since 1994. Australia, the next continent, is fully funded and slated to open in 2029. The replacement Aviary/Amazon, which is partially funded, will complete this period of continent expansion. Cheryl Armstrong, the executive director of the North Carolina Zoo Society, said that Simmons was known for her easy laugh and the warmth she extended toward everyone. The Zoo Society family will always remain grateful for the wisdom, caring, and friendship Pat Simmons shared with us, she said. As much as we will miss her, we know the good she achieved during her lifetime will not stop now. The kindness, integrity, and moxie that Pat instilled in the people who knew her will survive long into the future to help make the world a better place for all its inhabitants. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) FEMA is offering disaster assistance for those who rent property and students who were affected by the July 4 floods. Central High Schools Crystal King wins Region 15 assistant principal of the year FEMAs ongoing efforts to help those affected in San Angelo and the greater Tom Green County will be continued with coverage for uninsured possessions or grants for various groups of renters and students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the FEMA document: For any uninsured losses, you can apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Those grants are available to homeowners and renters, including students, and may be able to help pay for temporary housing. The initial rental grant is for a one-month or two-month period and can be reviewed for further assistance. According to the official FEMA document, after filing a claim: Renters may also qualify for assistance for uninsured essential personal property losses and other disaster-related expenses. These may include: Replacement or repair of necessary personal property such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies. Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required if you are self-employed. Primary vehicles. Uninsured or out-of-pocket medical, dental, childcare, and moving and storage expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Renters and students have until September 4 to file a claim and it can be done at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. The official documents can be downloaded below. DR-4879-TX-FS-006-Renters-Students-Can-Apply-for-FEMA-Disaster-AssistanceDownload ES-DR-4879-TX-FS-006-Renters-Students-Can-Apply-for-FEMA-Disaster-AssistanceDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. This story was originally published on BioPharma Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily BioPharma Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: A new biotechnology company debuted Wednesday with a hefty bankroll and an immunotherapy approach it claims has the potential to treat an array of tough-to-reach solid tumors. Called Dispatch Bio, the startup was formed in 2022 through a collaboration between Arch Venture Partners and the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy and built around technologies from scientific labs in Pennsylvania and California. It has since raised $216 million and developed a lead program thats expected to enter clinical testing next year. Dispatch aims to deliver to cancer cells a sequence for a unique type of protein flag, known as an antigen, that it says can draw in specially engineered immune cells it plans to administer afterwards. The company believes its approach could yield a universal solid tumor treatment. Dive Insight: Immunotherapy became a mainstay of cancer care over the past decade. Drugs like Merck & Co.s Keytruda, known as checkpoint inhibitors, can spur the immune system to fight cancer. Theyre used to treat dozens of tumor types and, when they work, extend survival in ways previously thought impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Treatments made from a patients own cells and engineered in a lab to attack cancer have come of age, too. Seven of these CAR-T therapies are available in the U.S., where theyre used to treat several kinds of blood cancers. A good portion of people, though, dont respond to checkpoint blockers, especially those whose tumors dont have a particular protein thats associated with immunotherapy response. Many cold tumors that dont elicit a strong immune reaction also remain frustratingly beyond the drugs reach. Cell therapies, meanwhile, havent proven as beneficial against cancers beyond the blood. One reason is that solid tumors co-opt a protective barrier of immune-suppressing cells and other molecules to exhaust CAR-T cells and shield themselves from immune defenders. Additionally, these tumors often have cells expressing different antigens, making them harder to target with a treatment aimed at just one. The pharmaceutical industry has spent billions of dollars in a yearslong and mostly unsuccessful hunt for better immunotherapies, often by pairing checkpoint inhibitors with medicines that might boost responses. Cell therapy companies, too, have experimented with various ways to get to solid tumors, with limited success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dispatch believes it may have better luck with an approach that marries elements of immunotherapy and cell therapy with gene therapy. According to Dispatch, its therapies use an engineered virus a common gene therapy delivery tool to seek out cancerous cells and tag them with what it refers to as a flare. This flare is an antigen that a CAR-T therapy Dispatch subsequently administers is designed to seek out. Once its target is found, the tagged cell is destroyed, releasing viral particles carrying the flare into nearby tumor tissue thats then also flagged. The engineered virus also delivers inflammatory cytokines and chemokines to help take down a tumors surrounding environmental defenses. In a statement, Arch managing director and Dispatch board member Steve Gillis referred to the process as a tumor-agnostic approach to immunotherapy that could treat a majority of solid tumors. It may also be a way to combat resistance mechanisms that tumors sometimes develop to other medicines, Dispatch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dispatchs work is based on research from University of Pennsylvania cell therapy pioneer Carl June; Stanford University professor Chris Garcia; University of California, San Francisco professor Kole Roybal; and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center new chair of immuno-oncology Andy Minn. The seed for Dispatch came at a Parker Institute retreat where the four scientists, now company co-founders, and institute head Sean Parker debated how best to solve the problems solid tumors pose in immunotherapy. Along with founding investors Arch and the Parker Institute, Dispatch is backed by Bristol Myers Squibb, UPenn, Stanford and Alexandria Venture Investments. The company raised its Series A via two tranches, most recently $100 million that it brought in last month. Dispatch is led by CEO Sabah Oney, a venture partner at Arch who previously held executive positions at Alector and Ariosa Diagnostics. Jeff Marrazzo, the former head of gene therapy developer Spark Therapeutics, chairs the companys board. Recommended Reading Hundreds of students gathered outside the smoldering remains of a school in the Bangladeshi capital on Tuesday to demand answers after a military jet slammed into the campus, killing dozens of children. An ordinary school day turned into terror on Monday when a Bangladesh Air Force jet suffered a mid-air mechanical fault and ploughed into the Milestone School and College in Dhaka, engulfing the two-story building in flames and smoke. Young students were finishing up afternoon classes and parents had gathered outside the gates to greet their children when the aircraft hit, killing at least 31 people - including at least 25 children - in the countrys deadliest air incident in recent memory. Some 165 others were left injured, the armed forces public relations directorate (ISPR) said Tuesday, many with severe burns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That most of the dead and injured are young children has compounded the tragedy that shocked the nation of 171 million people and sent the country into national mourning. As police and air force personnel worked at the scene to retrieve parts of the crashed plane on Tuesday, the gathered crowd began shouting at officials, with some students telling CNN they believe the death toll may be higher than officially released. The government has denied it is withholding information about the casualties of the crash, state media BSS News reported, citing the Chief Advisers press wing. It added that the identities of those killed are still being verified. At the crash site on Tuesday, witnesses were still visibly shaken by the horror they had seen the day before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We saw scattered parts of different bodies, of children, guardians, Mohammad Imran Hussein, a lecturer in the schools English department, told CNN. I cannot express everything in words, he said, emotionally distressed and struggling to speak. Hussein said he was in a school building across the playground when the jet crashed. Shahbul, the father of a missing girl, cries after a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft crashed into a school campus in Dhaka, Bangladesh. - Mahmud Hossain Opu/AP The sound was really intolerable. And I looked around to see what happened, I saw the tail of the plane. I saw a huge flame of fire, he said. Milestone College has a kindergarten, an elementary school and a high school on its campus. The building destroyed in the crash was one of about 20 housing almost 100 students between the ages of six and 13, Hussein said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its like this building was turned into a death trap. It was horrible, totally horrible, said Sheik Rameen, 21, a student at the high school. I saw a lot of children, I tried to save their lives, he told CNN at the site. I saw a burnt child seek help but nobody came to help them. Family grieves 9-year-old Nine-year-old Zunayet Hasan was one of the many children killed at the school. That morning he had gone upstairs to say goodbye to his grandfather in their family home in Dhaka. His father had packed his breakfast and took him to his classes as usual, along with his older brother, just a five-minute walk away. When his family heard of the crash, they rushed to the school in search of their boys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luckily we found the older one healthy and safe returning to us, the grandfather, Muhammad Ali, 65, told CNN from his home. His face was completely blackened, said the boys father, Muhammad Aslam. I went and hugged him strongly, and my own chest was burned. After I held him I felt like life returned back to me. But they could not find Zunayet. He was studying in Class 3, which took the brunt of the crash. Then we saw his ID card on a post in Facebook and recognized it, and were told to come to the hospital, Ali said. In the burns unit, Zunayet was put on life support but his injuries were too much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I saw my son was no more, said Aslam. Described by his grandfather as wise beyond his years, Zunayets death has devastated the family. His parents are inconsolable. That my son would never return again. My son, whoever he would talk to, they would adore him. Even if the neighbors in the area didnt recognize me, a lot of them knew my son, Zunayets father told CNN. What I witnessed with my own eyes, the bodies, the kind of corpses. How would I understand that this was my son? Firemen check the wreckage of the air force training aircraft that crashed onto the school campus. - Al-emrun Garjon/AP No words The FT-7 jet was on a routine training mission when it crashed soon after take off at around 1:18 p.m. local time on Monday (3:18 a.m. ET) after a mechanical fault, according to BSS News, citing the countrys armed forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The planes pilot, who has been named as Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam, made every effort to divert the aircraft away from densely populated areas toward a more sparsely inhabited location, the military said. The F-7 BGI is the final and most advanced variant in Chinas Chengdu J-7/F-7 aircraft family, according to Janes Information Group. Reuters reported that Bangladesh signed a contract for 16 aircraft in 2011 and deliveries were completed by 2013. Images from the crash site showed parts of the mangled wreckage of the jet lodged into the side of the scorched school as emergency crews continued their operations. Following the crash, emergency crews and families rushed the injured to hospitals in the capital where doctors raced to treat severe burns caused by the inferno. The hospitals quickly became overwhelmed with frantic relatives desperate for news of their loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the injured at the Dhaka Medical College Hospitals burns unit are children under the age of 12, resident surgeon Harunur Rashid told Reuters. Students demand the government release what they say is the real number of deaths in the Bangladesh aircraft crash, chanting slogans such as "fake, fake, at the Milestone School and College campus on Tuesday. - Salman Saeed/CNN Video shows crowds waiting outside the hospital and waiting rooms packed with anxious families. Bangladeshs interim government leader Muhammad Yunus said on Monday that, I have no words. I dont know how to begin. None of us ever imagined it. It wasnt within anyones expectations. But we had to suddenly accept this unbelievable reality, Yunus said in a video message. Yunus said the training aircraft crashed and fell upon these innocent children and many were burned to death in the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What answer can we give to their parents? What can we possibly say to them? We cant even answer ourselves, he said. CNNs Aishwarya S Iyer contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Jul. 22A Dixon man has been charged with six offenses in connection with gunshots reported Monday in Dixon. Kairyn Lottman, 18, is charged in Lee County with four felonies: armed violence, unlawful possession of a firearm without the required firearm owner's identification card, possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number and reckless discharge of a firearm, according to court documents. He also is accused of two misdemeanors: unlawful carrying/possession of a firearm and resisting a peace officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a Dixon Police Department news release, officers were called about 4:25 a.m. Monday for a report of shots fired in a field off Tilton Park Drive. Officers began to speak with numerous witnesses and were told that they had heard numerous shots fired in the field behind their houses, according to the release. While investigating, officers found Lottman in the area of the shooting, according to the release. The Dixon Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff's Office each used their K-9 units to conduct an article search of the area. Lottman was arrested and taken to the Dixon Police Department for processing, according to the release. He remains detained in the Lee County Jail. Anyone who finds any evidence that may be related to the call is asked to contact the Dixon Police Department. Lottman had a preliminary hearing in court set for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday. ST. LOUIS (AP) A man whose body was found in the Mississippi River south of St. Louis in 1994 has finally been identified after authorities exhumed his remains to collect new DNA samples. In the latest cold case to be solved through advances in DNA technology, the sheriffs office in Jefferson County, Missouri, announced Tuesday that the former John Doe was Benny Leo Olson from Edwardsville, a suburb on the Illinois side of the river about 15 miles (24 kilometers) northeast of St. Louis. Officials do not suspect any foul play in the case, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After learning Olson had been dead more than three decades, his half-sister Catherine Heston told the newspaper, We knew something must have happened, but you never really know. If alive today, he would be 76. She said Olson was a perpetual student, attending St. Louis Community College-Meramec, Western Illinois University in Macomb and at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. But mental illness also lurked in the background. In 1980, he was charged with trying to pay someone to burn down his stepmothers house. His fingerprints were taken as part of that criminal case, and those prints ultimately helped confirm his identity following a partial DNA match to a distant relative. Olson, who was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, was deemed not competent to stand trial. He spent 11 years at a mental health facility in Illinois before being released in the early 1990s, Heston said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heston said the last time she heard from Olson would've been about a month before his body was found in the river, when he called during what she described as a paranoid delusion. The family often wondered what happened. Over the years, her mother kept a box full of mementos, including his high school class ring, family photos and other keepsakes. This case resolution is a testament to the power of investigative genetic genealogy to give John and Jane Does their names back and provide answers to family, Alyssa Feller, a forensic genetic genealogist who worked on the case, said in a news release. The headquarters of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, which made its first arrest under a recent state law Tuesday, July 22, 2025.. (Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) The state Department of Natural Resources made its first arrest under a recent law intended to help rid the states waterways of abandoned boats. Samuel Kodaimati, 64, was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of leaving a decommissioned 120-foot U.S. Navy torpedo vessel in Bohicket Creek near Johns Island, the natural resources agency said in a news release. If convicted, Kodaimati could be ordered to pay up to $43,400 in fines and fees involved with removing the boat, according to the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Wednesday afternoon, Kodaimati remained in the Charleston County jail. Bond has been set at $2,174. The boat that DNR officials linked to Kodaimati has been sitting in a marsh near a private dock since at least 2021, when the Coast Guard issued an order deeming it inoperable under federal maritime law for lacking proper documentation, according to the news release. Leaving the vessel in the salt marsh ecosystem posed a threat for the fish, shellfish and shorebirds that live in the marsh, as well as the quality of the water that filters through it. The Coast Guard deemed the boat an environmental hazard last year and removed about 3,500 gallons of oil and oily water from it, according to the news release. This arrest underscores our commitment to protecting South Carolinas natural resources and holding accountable those who jeopardize them, agency director Tom Mullikin said in a news release. Abandoning vessels in sensitive waterways not only violates the law but also puts our ecosystems, wildlife, and communities at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one answered phone numbers possibly connected to Kodaimati. It is unclear whether he has hired an attorney to represent him. Abandoning boats for any reason other than an emergency has been a misdemeanor since 2008, but that law didnt stop people from leaving their boats in the states waterways. The law passed unanimously in May creates a specific process for DNR and other law enforcement agencies to remove boats left in public waters and increases the penalties for those convicted. Once law enforcement officers have been notified of a boat left in a waterway for 10 days, if it has no identification or 21 days if it does they must try to contact the owner and put a notice on the boat deeming it abandoned. The owner then has three weeks to move the vessel or submit a reasonable plan to do so. Otherwise, officials can remove and dispose of the boat, as well as charge its owner with a misdemeanor, according to the law. The boats owner, if convicted, can be fined up to $10,000, put in prison for up to 60 days, or both. Thats double the previous maximum fine of $5,000 or prison sentence of 30 days. The law also stipulates the owner is responsible for paying any costs that come from removing the boat, taking the onus off the state to cover expensive removals. Aristotle Capital Management, LLC, an investment management company, released its Value Equity Strategy second quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. Although the U.S. equity market started with volatility in the second quarter, it rebounded with strength, with the S&P 500 Index rising 10.94% during the quarter. The composite returned 4.88% gross of fees (4.75% net of fees) in the first quarter, outperforming the 3.78% return of the Russell 1000 Value Index and underperforming the 10.94% return of the S&P 500 Index. In addition, you can check the funds top 5 holdings to determine its best picks for 2025. In its second quarter 2025 investor letter, Aristotle Capital Value Equity Strategy highlighted stocks such as Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC). Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) engages in the research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of eye care products. The one-month return of Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) was 1.24%, and its shares lost 4.06% of their value over the last 52 weeks. On July 22, 2025, Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) stock closed at $88.66 per share, with a market capitalization of $43.853 billion. Aristotle Capital Value Equity Strategy stated the following regarding Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) in its second quarter 2025 investor letter: Bryan Kohbergers defense planned to argue at trial that three other people in the victims social circle were responsible for the quadruple murders, not Kohberger himself. This was before Kohberger changed his plea to guilty on July 2, shutting down the possibility for a trial. In case records, a seven-page document was filed with the Idaho courts titled REDACTED Order on Defendants [sic] Offer of Proof RE Alternate Perpetrators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that document, Kohbergers defense said there were three people who could have killed Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen that night in November 2022. The defense claimed that these three unnamed individuals could have killed the college students because they knew the victims and had been in their home so they knew the layout. The claim also said that these three lived within walking distance of the home. Under Idaho law, a defendant trying to claim an alternative perpetrator needs to present proof of connection with the crime, such train offacts or circumstances, as tend clearly to point out someone besides the accused as the guilty party. Remote acts, disconnected and outside of the crime itself, cannot be separately proved for such purpose. A judge said that the evidence Kohberger was claiming was entirely irrelevant and speculation, according to the filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ada County District Court Judge Steven Hippler wrote: Nothing links these individuals to the homicides or otherwise gives rise to reasonable inference that they committed the crime; indeed, it would take nothing short of rank speculation by the jury to make such a finding. Three of the individuals were each socially connected to one or more of the victims, interacted with one or more of the victims at social events in the hours prior to the homicide, lived within walking distance of the crime scene and were familiar with the layout of the victims home from prior social events. While perhaps this evidence could suggest an opportunity to commit the-crime-which, no doubt, is an opportunity shared by dozens of others in the victims social circles there is no compelling evidence that any of them had motive to kill the victims-much less physically harm them-or means to do so. Further, there is no evidence connecting them to the crime scene. Other than the DNA evidence belonging to Kohberger at the scene, the judge said none of the three individuals drove the white Hyundai Elantra that was seen by the home around the time of the murders. Kohberger drove such a car. A doctor pleaded guilty Wednesday to distributing ketamine to Matthew Perry before he died, becoming the fourth person convicted in connection with the "Friends" actor's 2023 overdose death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine during a hearing in Los Angeles Wednesday morning, the Department of Justice said. "Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry," his attorney, Karen Goldstein, said in a statement. "He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Doctor in Matthew Perry ketamine overdose case agrees to plead guilty: DOJ Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, "acknowledging his failure to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction," Goldstein said. He has indicated through his attorneys that he will surrender his medical license in the next 30 to 45 days, prosecutors said. "While Dr. Plasencia was not treating Mr. Perry at the time of his death, he hopes his case serves as a warning to other medical professionals and leads to stricter oversight and clear protocols for the rapidly growing at-home ketamine industry in order to prevent future tragedies like this one," Goldstein said. Plasencia was one of five people charged in the wake of Perry's death from a ketamine overdose on Oct. 28, 2023, at the age of 54. The actor was discovered unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles home, police said. An autopsy report revealed he died from the acute effects of ketamine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The operator of an urgent care clinic in Malibu, Plasencia had been set to go on trial in August in the case prior to reaching a plea agreement. He will remain out on bond until his sentencing hearing on Dec. 3, with prosecutors saying he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for each count. David Swanson/Reuters - PHOTO: Dr. Salvador Plasencia makes his way to federal court where he is expected to plead guilty to four counts of distributing ketamine to actor Matthew Perry before his death, in Los Angeles, July 23, 2025. His conviction comes after Mark Chavez, a second doctor charged in the case, pleaded guilty to distributing ketamine in October 2024. He is scheduled to be sentenced in September. According to Plasencia's plea agreement, he distributed 20 vials of ketamine, ketamine lozenges and syringes to Perry and the actor's live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, between Sept. 30, 2023, and Oct. 12, 2023. Plasencia "admits that his conduct fell below the proper standard of medical care and that transfers of ketamine vials to Defendant Iwamasa and Victim M.P. were not for a legitimate medical purpose," his plea agreement stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iwamasa, who admitted in court documents to administering the ketamine on the day that Perry died, pleaded guilty in August 2024 to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death, the DOJ said. He is scheduled to be sentenced in November. According to his plea agreement, Perry asked Iwamasa to help him procure ketamine in September 2023 and provided his assistant with "money, or promised to reimburse him, and directed him to find sources from whom to acquire the drugs." MORE: Doctor charged in Matthew Perry case pleads guilty to drug offense One of Plasencia's patients introduced him to Perry on Sept. 30, 2023, with the unidentified patient referring to the actor as a "'high profile person' who was seeking ketamine and was willing to pay 'cash and lots of thousands' for ketamine treatment,'" according to Plasencia's plea agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plasencia contacted Chavez, who had previously operated a ketamine clinic, to discuss Perry's request for ketamine and purchased vials of liquid ketamine, ketamine lozenges and other items from him, according to the agreement. In discussing how much to charge Perry, Plasencia said in text messages to Chavez, "I wonder how much this moron will pay" and "Lets [sic] find out," the Department of Justice said. Plasencia administered ketamine to Perry at the actor's home on several occasions, and left vials and lozenges with Iwamasa to administer, according to the plea agreement. In one instance, he was paid $12,000 for such a visit, according to the agreement. One such instance occurred outside of the home, when Plasencia administered ketamine to Perry in a parking lot near an aquarium in Long Beach, according to the plea agreement. Upon learning about that, Chavez "reprimanded" the other doctor "for 'dosing people' in cars, and in a public place where children are present," Chavez's plea agreement stated. Jason Laveris/FilmMagic via Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this March 15, 2017, file photo, actor Matthew Perry attends a premiere in Beverly Hills, Calif. Plasencia returned to Perry's home on Oct. 12, 2023, to administer ketamine, during which the actor's blood pressure spiked, causing him to "freeze up," according to Plasencia's plea agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Notwithstanding Victim M.P.'s reaction, defendant left additional vials of ketamine with Defendant Iwamasa, knowing that Defendant Iwamasa would inject the ketamine into Victim M.P.," the agreement stated. After receiving 10 more vials of ketamine through a licensed pharmaceutical company using his DEA license, Plasencia texted Iwamasa on Oct. 27, 2023, according to the plea agreement: "I know you mentioned taking a break. I have been stocking up on the meanwhile. I am not sure when you guys plan to resume but in case its when im out of town this weekend I have left supplies with a nurse of mine ...I can always let her know the plan." Perry died the following day after overdosing on ketamine, which Plasencia had not provided, according to the plea agreement. Another defendant in the case, Eric Fleming, admitted in court documents that he distributed the ketamine that killed Perry, prosecutors said. He pleaded guilty in August 2024 to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine and one count of distribution of ketamine resulting in death. He admitted in court documents that he distributed 50 vials of ketamine that he obtained from another defendant in the case -- Jasveen Sangha -- to Iwamasa, including the ketamine that killed Perry, the DOJ said. Fleming is scheduled to be sentenced in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sangha, allegedly known as "The Ketamine Queen," is accused of selling 50 vials of ketamine over two weeks to Perry, working with Fleming and Iwamasa to distribute the drugs to Perry, prosecutors said. She is accused of selling Perry the batch of ketamine that killed him. Sangha pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to go on trial in August. By Matt McKnight and Steve Gorman BOISE, Idaho (Reuters) -The former criminal-justice doctoral student convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday but declined to give a statement in court that might have shed light on a motive for the killings. Bryan Kohberger, 30, received four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole or appeal under a deal with prosecutors sparing him the death penalty in return for pleading guilty earlier this month to four counts of first-degree murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Steven Hippler gave Kohberger, shackled and dressed in orange jail garb, an opportunity to address the court before sentence was pronounced. "I respectfully decline," the defendant answered quietly, the only words he uttered during the 2-1/2 hour proceedings in Idaho's Fourth District Court in Boise, the state capital. Throughout the hearing he sat expressionless beside his lawyers as relatives and friends of the victims - Ethan Chapin, 20, his girlfriend Xana Kernodle, 20, and her roommates Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21 - took turns venting their anger and anguish directly at him through the presentation of victim impact statements. "I never imagined having to speak to someone so devoid of humanity," said Kristi Goncalves, mother of Kaylee Goncalves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim's older sister Alivea addressed Kohberger in an unflinchingly steely tone, saying, "I will call you what you are - sociopath, psychopath, murderer." She demanded, in vain, to know answers to such lingering questions as how he chose his victims and what were her sister's last words. In the end, she and other loved ones of the four slain students were left baffled over what had precipitated a crime that stunned the small college town of Moscow, Idaho, and riveted national media attention. In pleading guilty on July 2, Kohberger admitted to the underlying allegations that he had crept into an off-campus house under cover of pre-dawn darkness on November 13, 2022, and stabbed the four students to death with a hunting knife, then slipped away. Two other women living at the house survived unharmed. But the killer made no mention of motive. Authorities likewise have yet to offer an explanation for what might have driven Kohberger's actions, and how or why he singled out his victims. Neither did the plea agreement require Kohberger to provide any such insights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'NO CONCEIVABLE REASON COULD MAKE ANY SENSE' President Donald Trump weighed in on the case on his Truth Social platform this week, saying he hoped the judge "makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders." Shortly before pronouncing sentence, Hippler lamented, "We are now certain who committed these unspeakable acts of evil, but what we don't know and what we may never know is why." "I share the desire expressed by others to understand the why," the judge said, adding that "by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance. We give him agency." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent on the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave," Hippler said. "No conceivable reason could make any sense." Even if legally empowered to compel Kohberger to give a statement in court, the judge asked, "How could anyone ever be assured that what he speaks is the truth?" Acknowledging concerns that Kohberger might present a self-serving narrative in some future book or movie deal, the judge urged the media to avoid providing him such a platform "in the name of clicks, royalties or profits." During the plea hearing earlier this month, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson sought to rule out one possible avenue of speculation, declaring that there was no evidence of sexual assault among the victims or a "sexual component" to the killings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the murders, Kohberger was pursuing a doctorate degree in criminal justice at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, a short distance from the University of Idaho campus in the neighboring northwestern Idaho town of Moscow. Thompson had said Kohberger planned the violence in advance, purchasing the knife online about eight months before the killings. The knife's sheath was recovered, but the murder weapon was never found. As evidence Kohberger sought to cover up his crimes, Thompson said investigators found he had meticulously cleaned the inside of his car, which he used as the getaway vehicle. Authorities have said they linked Kohberger to the murders using DNA evidence, cellphone data and video footage. He was arrested weeks after the killings in Pennsylvania, where he was visiting family during the Christmas holidays, and was returned to Idaho to face charges. (Reporting by Matt McKnight in Boise, Idaho; Writing and additional reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Howard Goller) A woman's Fourth of July trip to Colorado took an intense and overwhelming turn when she learned that her Texas ranch, which backs up to the Medina River, was being inundated with floodwaters, and her dog, Ziva, was missing. Erin Doguet departed for her trip on July 3, leaving the care of her ranch and its over 200 animals to her sister Shannon and a pet sitter, Taelyn. Doguet's working livestock guardian dogs an 8-year-old Turkish Kangal, Ziva, and a 2-year-old Central Asian Shepherd, Una were also assisting with caring for the ranch. On July 4, as months' worth of rain started to soak and flood the area surrounding her ranch, Doguet learned Ziva had disappeared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I left on vacation to Colorado, 1500 miles away. My pet sitter was caring for my ranch and animals while I was gone. Ziva took off after a predator or possibly also spooked by the big storm, causing her to end up on the back section of the ranch, which is bordered by the Medina River. As she crossed the river, the flood waters rose swiftly, trapping her," Doguet tells PEOPLE about what happened to the dog on July 4. Erin Doguet Ziva the dog Ziva the dog Thankfully, Doguet had equipped both of her livestock guardian dogs with Tractive GPS collars long before her trip to Colorado. The collars allowed her to track her dogs' whereabouts while they were out working on the ranch. So when Ziva disappeared during Texas' catastrophic floods, Doguet's sister and pet sitter didn't know the dog's location, but Doguet in Colorado did. Erin Doguet Ziva's collar Ziva's collar "While I was away, I was tracking Ziva on the Tractive app, helping guide Shannon and Taelyn to her. I shared Ziva's tracker location and access to the app with Shannon so she could track her as well on the ground. The app worked flawlessly in guiding us to her location," Doguet shares. Erin Doguet Ziva the dog on the ranch and Ziva stuck in a flooded gully Ziva the dog on the ranch and Ziva stuck in a flooded gully Once Shannon and Taelyn reached the spot indicated by Ziva's collar, they still couldn't see the dog. The Tractive app's option to play a sound from the collar eventually led Shannon to Ziva, who was stuck in a flooded gully and hard to see. Erin Doguet Ziva trapped by a flooded gully Ziva trapped by a flooded gully Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ziva was found trapped in a flooded gully along the flooded Medina River. The roaring river blocked any escape back home, and the three other sides were too steep and slick for her to climb out on her own," Doguet says of the situation. When Shannon spotted the dog alive and waiting for rescue, she told her sister right away. "I burst into tears knowing they found her alive! When the collar kept reporting her same location for hours on the river, I feared she was dead," the pet parent says. Erin Doguet Ziva shortly before her rescue Ziva shortly before her rescue Altogether, Ziva spent about 16 hours stuck, alone and confused, but ultimately survived the ordeal with little injury. 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. "Ziva was so exhausted that she didn't have much strength to help Shannon and Taelyn pull her out. Ziva weighs 120 pounds, and my sister stated she was so tired. She was just dead weight. Once home, she guzzled water and slept for the next 12 hours. She was physically unharmed," Doguet summarizes. To learn how to help support the victims and recovery efforts from the Texas floods, click here. Read the original article on People DOJ charges Joplin felon with illegal firearm possession SPRINGFIELD, Mo. The United States Department of Justice has confirmed a Joplin man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with his possession of a firearm recovered in the aftermath of a Joplin shooting. The U.S. Department of Justice confirms that Andrew M. Reed, 22, of Joplin, has been charged in a single count indictment of criminal possesion of a firearm. This indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint filed on July 2, 2025. An affidavit filed in support of the original complaint says on February 15, 2025, police responded to the area of 5th and Joplin Ave in response to reported gunshots. Officers say they recovered several spent ammunition cartridges while on the scene. Officers reportedly then recovered a firearm with a thirty-round extended load magazine that was loaded with ammunition that resembled to ammunition shell casings found at the initial scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say they were able to identify Reed via surveillance footage taken from a nearby business and that footage showed Reed hiding the firearm. According to the Department of Justice, Reed has prior felony convictions and is a person prohibited from possessing firearms. It is illegal, under federal law, for any person convicted of a felony to own any kind of firearm or ammunition. The DOJ reminds charges contained in this indictment are merely accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine innocence or guilt. Officials say this case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Brown. The case has been investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Joplin Police Department. Advertisement 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 KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. July 23 (UPI) -- Attorney General Pam Bondi fired newly appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Desiree Leigh Grace. Bondi announced that Grace had been fired hours after a panel of New Jersey judges voted to appoint her as the state's district attorney over President Donald Trump's pick for the position, Alina Habba. Habba, a former personal attorney to the president, was appointed acting U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey by Trump in March. Grace had been serving as her first assistant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Habba "has been doing a great job in making N.J. safe again. Nonetheless, politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position, replacing Alina with the First Assistant. Accordingly, the First Assistant United States Attorney in New Jersey has been removed," Bondi said in a statement Tuesday. "This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges -- especially when they threaten the President's core Article II powers." Since returning to office in January, Trump has threatened to impeach judges who rule against him, sanctioned law firms and lawyers linked to his political adversaries and has ignored or defied rulings he disagrees with, drawing staunch criticism. The firing of Grace, a career public servant who was lawfully appointed by the court, "is another blatant attempt to intimidate anyone that doesn't agree with them and undermine judicial independence," Sens. Cory Booker and Andy Kim, both New Jersey Democrats, said in a joint statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This administration may not like the law, but they are not above it." They added that the firing is another example of Trump's Justice Department "again criticizing a court that acted within its authority, continuing a pattern of publicly undermining judicial decisions and showing disregard for the rule of law and the separation of powers." Todd Blanche, deputy attorney general, said earlier on X that Habba's term expires at midnight Friday and that the judges' "rush" to appoint Grace "reveals what this was always about: a left-wing agenda, not the rule of law." The order appointing Grace U.S. attorney general of New Jersey was signed by District Judge Renee Marie Bumb, a President George W. Bush appointee. "When judges act like activists, they undermine confidence in our justice system," Blanche said on X. "Alina is President Trump's choice to lead -- and no partisan bench can override that." Top Justice Department officials on Tuesday announced that a deputy to Alina Habba, President Trumps pick for New Jerseys top federal prosecutor, has been removed after federal judges declined to extend Habbas interim role. Attorney General Pam Bondi said that Desiree Leigh Grace, Habbas first assistant who was tapped by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey to lead the office upon the expiration of Habbas 120-day temporary term, has been removed. Bondi said that Habba has done a great job in making NJ safe again, but politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position, instead selecting Grace to take over the office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accordingly, the First Assistant United States Attorney in New Jersey has just been removed, Bondi said. This Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges especially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers. A Justice Department spokesperson confirmed to The Hill that Grace is no longer a DOJ employee. Its not apparent whether Graces removal would prevent her from assuming the role of New Jerseys U.S. attorney. The court named her in a standing order as Habbas successor, though its unclear whether the judges could enforce the appointment or if anyone but Trump himself can fire her. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the courts decision proved this was never about law it was about politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They forced out President Trumps pick, @USAttyHabba, then installed her deputy, colluding with the NJ Senators along the way. It wont work, Blanche wrote on the social platform X, referring to Democratic New Jersey Sens. Cory Booker and Andy Kim, who have opposed her nomination. Pursuant to the Presidents authority, we have removed that deputy, effective immediately, he added. This backroom vote will not override the authority of the Chief Executive. Habba took over as New Jerseys top federal prosecutor in March, after working in the White House as a counselor to the president and, before that, as Trumps legal spokesperson and a senior adviser to his campaign. Her profile rocketed amid her legal defense of Trump in high-profile civil cases, including her representing him in his business fraud case and the defamation and sexual assault lawsuits brought by advice columnist E. Jean Carroll. It cemented her profile as a staunch defender of the president in the courtroom and the press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She quickly came under scrutiny as U.S. attorney, namely for her arrests and charges against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka (D) and Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.) stemming from an incident at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility. A trespassing charge against Baraka was dropped, but McIver is still fighting three counts of assaulting, resisting, impeding and interfering with a federal officer, to which she pleaded not guilty. Baraka has sued Habba for damages over his arrest. Updated July 23 at 9:47 a.m. ET Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche says hes reached out to Ghislaine Maxwells lawyer to determine whether she would be willing to speak with prosecutors. He expects to meet with the longtime Epstein associate, who is currently in prison for sex trafficking, in the coming days. Maxwells lawyer told CNN they are grateful to President Donald Trump, and her team has already telegraphed that theyd be interested in a pardon; a White House official declined to comment on the existence or nonexistence of any clemency request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, House Republicans broke for August recess early, with leaders paralyzed over how to handle Epstein-related proposals though House Oversight Chair James Comer is seeking to subpoena Maxwell as expeditiously as possible, Axios reported. Im quite frankly fed up with the Democrats using this to parade around, Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., told Semafor, arguing starting recess early wont make any difference. Ukraine and Russia are set to resume peace talks Wednesday in Turkey. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the meeting, while the Kremlin has downplayed expectations, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying hopes for a breakthrough remain low. The talks come amid continued fighting and stalled negotiations in recent weeks. David Ignatius joins Morning Joe to discuss SoFi Technologies (SOFI) has transformed from a studentloan refifocused startup into a leading digital financial hub, offering everything from banking and lending to investing, crypto, and even privatemarkets access. The results have resonated in SOFI stocks recent rally. The spotlight now turns to Tuesday, July 29, when SoFi will unveil its second-quarter earnings before the market opens. After a first quarter marked by robust growth across its ecosystem as both users and products expanded, the question is whether SoFi can sustain this momentum. More News from Barchart With SOFI stock already skyrocketing and trading at premium multiples, July 29 isnt just another earnings date. Its a critical check on whether SoFi can justify its valuation, maintain subscriber and product momentum, and hit ambitious guidance. For SoFi watchers, this is one earnings call you wont want to miss. About SoFi Stock SoFi Technologies is a fintech powerhouse based in San Francisco, California, which has expanded far beyond its initial studentloan refinancing to building a fully integrated financial solution that offers lending, banking, investing, insurance, and a technology platform used by other financial firms. It currently commands a market capitalization of $23.4 billion, reflecting strong investor confidence in its diversified growth strategy. Shares of SoFi have been on a remarkable run lately, riding a wave of momentum into the upcoming earnings report. Over the past 52 weeks, SOFI stock has surged 178%, with a dramatic 86% climb over the past three months alone. This surge pushed the stock to a new 52-week high of $22.74 on July 18, reflecting growing investor enthusiasm for the companys strong fee-based and investor-centric growth, particularly with the reintroduction of crypto and private-market offerings. www.barchart.com From a valuation standpoint, SOFI is priced at 79 times forward earnings and 9 times forward sales, indicating a clear premium compared to industry peers. SoFi Beat Q1 Projections SoFi Technologies released its Q1 2025 earnings report on April 29, demonstrating several standout achievements. SoFi achieved a record net revenue of $771.8 million, representing a 20% year-over-year (YOY) increase. Meanwhile, adjusted net revenue grew 33% YOY to $770.7 million, surpassing the consensus estimate. Jul. 23July 16 Ryan Michael Flemming, 40, 1611 N. 21st St., disorderly conduct, amended to ordinance violation disorderly conduct, no contest plea, $379 fine; domestic unlawful phone use-threatens harm, deferred prosecution agreement revoked, one year probation, $679 court costs. Susan A. Hicks, 63, 3505 Belknap St., possession of methamphetamine, no contest plea, deferred prosecution agreement; possess drug paraphernalia, dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sergio Montrell Roby, 40, Altoona, repeater domestic intimidate victim/threaten force, repeater domestic bail jumping, repeater domestic disorderly conduct, no contest pleas, three years state prison and three years extended supervision concurrent, $891 fine and court costs; two additional counts repeater domestic bail jumping, repeater domestic computer message-threaten/injury or harm, additional count repeater disorderly conduct, three counts repeater bail jumping dismissed. Daniel Barry Sanda, 29, South Range, domestic aggravated battery-intend great bodily harm, battery or threat to judge, prosecutor or law enforcement officer, guilty pleas, three years state prison and three years extended supervision concurrent, $618 court costs; domestic first-degree reckless injury, dismissed. July 17 Blane Carson Carey, 42, Duluth, three counts failure to support child, no contest pleas, three years probation concurrent, 126 days jail, $518 court costs; four additional counts failure to support child, dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dinero Rashaud Miller, 36, Duluth, party to domestic arson of property other than building, three counts bail jumping, found guilty at jury trial, three years state prison and three years extended supervision concurrent, $2,808 restitution and fine, no contact with victim; possession of cocaine, 60 days jail served, $638.25 fine; third-offense operating while intoxicated, no contest plea, 60 days jail consecutive, $1,869 fine, 24-month drivers license revocation, ignition interlock, alcohol assessment; criminal damage to property, no contest plea, 30 days jail consecutive; vehicle operator flee or elude officer, no contest plea, 90 days consecutive, $638.25 fine; possess drug paraphernalia, resisting or obstructing an officer, third-offense operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration, dismissed. July 18 Jerry Allen Demoure, 62, 1906 N. 13th St., operating while revoked, guilty plea, $579 fine and court costs. James Arthur Doolittle, 71, 3125 Baxter Ave., stalking, deferred prosecution agreement fulfilled, amended to ordinance violation disorderly conduct, $500.50 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lauri Renae Gage, 51, 1112 Clough Ave., fraudulent use of credit card, guilty plea, 90 days jail stayed, one year probation, no contact with victim's residence, $3,164.55 restitution and court costs. Stevie Rae Glanville, 34, Duluth, battery, no contest plea, deferred prosecution agreement; disorderly conduct, domestic battery, dismissed. Nathan David Kendall, 21, Cambridge, Minnesota, theft-movable property, guilty plea, deferred prosecution agreement. Shaylee Jada Knight, 19, 621 Weeks Ave., domestic battery, no contest plea, one year probation, $543 court costs; domestic disorderly conduct, dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryatt Gregory Levine, 35, 4926 Michigan Drive, domestic disorderly conduct, no contest plea, deferred prosecution agreement; domestic battery, contact after domestic abuse arrest, dismissed. William George Lewis, 41, Solon Springs, negligent handling of burning material, no contest plea, eight days jail, $579 fine and court costs. The Superior Telegram publishes court records as part of its obligation to serve as a keeper of the local historical record. All items are public records submitted by the courthouse in Superior. Individual requests for items to be withheld will not be granted. KANSAS CITY, Mo. One person has been hospitalized after being struck by a car in Douglas County Tuesday evening. Suspect charged in Kansas City double shooting that killed two brothers The Douglas County Sheriffs Office says N 1400 Road has been blocked off between E 2000 Road and Winchester Road as investigators examine the scene of a crash involving a bicyclist. The roadway is expected to remain closed for the next several hours as officers investigate, according to the sheriffs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas City police investigating after body pulled from Missouri River The bicyclist has been transported to a Kansas City area hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries. This is an on-going investigation. FOX4 will continue to update this story as 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Dozens more car break-in, vandalism reports in Minneapolis and beyond originally appeared on Bring Me The News. At least two local police departments are investigating recent strings of theft and vandalism to vehicles. According to the Minneapolis Police Department, almost 100 reports of vehicle break-ins and damage were received over a two-day period last week, then over 70 additional vehicles had their windows smashed between Sunday night and Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators are working to determine whether the two incidents are related. Their work includes reviewing reports to identify and analyze trends throughout the Twin Cities and monitoring social media posts related to vehicle damage. Car windows were smashed overnight in Loring Park between July 14 and 15.Taylor Dahlin "MPD is actively sharing information with nearby jurisdictions who have experienced similar trends in recent weeks," the department said in a Tuesday statement. As news came out about the latest wave of damage in Minneapolis, a similar spate of incidents have been reported in Bloomington. Bloomington PD says vandalism and break-ins were reported by the owners of around 40 vehicles in hotel parking lots near the Mall of America between Sunday night and Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bloomington police released a photo of a Black male suspect. Anyone with information related to the break-ins along American Boulevard East is asked to contact the department. Between 7/20 pm to 7/21 am unknown suspects broke windows of approx. 40 parked vehicles. The damaged vehicles were parked in hotel parking lots along American Blvd E. Property was also stolen. Members of the public with info are asked to contact Bloomington PD at 952-563-4900. pic.twitter.com/jo5V9VI2NN Bloomington Police (@BPD_MN) July 22, 2025 Minneapolis police said investigators are working to collect and review video surveillance from city-owned cameras, as well as security footage shared by community members in the impacted areas. Minneapolis police are also requesting information and security footage that may have captured the two citywide incidents. Officers will conduct additional patrols, including around downtown, Northeast and southwest Minneapolis. No arrests had been made as of Tuesday afternoon. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Sundazed Cafe is a mobile coffee shop created by Cyn Harlow, who dreamed of serving the cast and crew of the Netflix series Outer Banks. Last week, her dream came true. While living in Colorado, Harlow and her children were drawn to the Lowcountry from watching the charm of Charleston featured in Outer Banks. She decided to book a weekend trip to the Holy City, and the rest is history. Harlow says her dream started when she stepped off the plane and landed in Charleston. I was telling a girlfriend that I was moving there, and I am going to have this coffee shop, and I am going to serve coffee to the Outer Banks cast and crew, said Harlow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the dream was established, Harlow packed up her life in Colorado and moved to Charleston. Harlow and her two children have now been in Charleston for two years, keeping their goal in mind. Her first step was to open Sundazed Cafe, her mobile coffee shop, which she accomplished. Then, in June, she launched a social media campaign to capture the attention of the cast and crew of Outer Banks. Harlow created social media videos that clearly stated her goal to serve coffee on the production set. Not only was she clear, she was creative. She created drinks for the Sundazed Cafe menu that were inspired by some of the characters on the show. For example, Harlow posted on her social media account the special drink she would serve John B., one of the main characters in the show. She named the drink the Fluffy Seagull, which contains marshmallow fluff, house-made peanut butter syrup, milk, and espresso. Harlow explains her choice of ingredients: When we think about John B., he is living on his own. He needs high protein and possibly a sugar rush because hes searching for treasure. Thats why I included a shot of espresso and some milk, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is just one example of the many videos she created to gain the attention of the shows cast and crew. Additionally, she would tag the Outer Banks social accounts so they could see the videos she was making. Her community saw her making an effort and decided to help try to capture the attention of the cast and crew of Outer Banks. Social media works. If you love something and you have a dream and a passion, you go for it, and other people get behind you. They get excited. So many people, our family, our friends, our followers, were out there tagging, and some people were making calls and sending text messages, just trying to get us connected and vouching for us. This community is insanely amazing. I am so grateful, said Harlow. Everyones efforts paid off. The craft services team from Outer Banks reached out to Harlow and offered her an opportunity. She explains that they saw her videos, they were working on getting her on set, and were discussing it with their boss. Last Wednesday, Cyn and her kids were invited to bring their coffee truck on set. For two unforgettable hours, they served up their signature drinks to the cast and crew. Then came the golden ticket: clearance to step onto the production set itself. It was insane, Harlow said. The work they do behind the scenes is just so cool. It was so valuable, for me, and especially for my kids, to see all the effort that goes into making something like this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it gets better. As they watched the action unfold, Harlows daughter, Stella, spotted two familiar faces: Jonathan Davis (Pope) and Carlacia Grant (Cleo). Then came a moment straight out of a movie: Stella locked eyes with Grant. They exchanged a warm hello. Stella turned to her mom with tears of joy in her eyes. Thats when they noticed what Grant was drinking: the Funky Folly, one of Sundazeds signature drinks. Their dream wasnt just alive, it was sipping coffee on set. The cast is incredible, but the crews who put it on and how fast they work were so, so cool. Top notch. It was one of the best things Ive ever experienced, said Harlow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harlow, still glowing from the experience, explains that mindset also played a huge role in getting on set. I highly believe that the words that we speak and our mindset are so powerful. A long time ago, I learned to shift my mindset from if it happens and switched to when it happens, said Harlow. Harlow teases that she is just getting started and has some exciting things planned for the future of her business. Listen to the full conversation with Cyn Harlow above, and learn how her dreams became 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 WCBD News 2. July 22 (UPI) -- Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman on Tuesday announced dozens of charges, including 37 counts of attempted murder, against a 29-year-old man accused of ramming his vehicle into a crowd outside of a Hollywood night club early Saturday. Authorities allege that shortly before 2 a.m. PDT Saturday, Fernando Ramirez drove his vehicle into a crowd of people waiting at a taco truck, for valet service and to get into the East Hollywood nightclub, resulting in 37 people being injured. The county district attorney told reporters during a press conference Tuesday that the San Clemente resident has been charged with a 74-count indictment that, on top of the attempted murder charges, includes 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the victims, eight people sustained what Hochman described as "great bodily injuries," while remaking that it was a "miracle" there were no fatalities and crediting the more than 100 responders for acting to prevent the outcome of the crime from being worse than it was. "We understand that this brazen act has shaken the community and but for the good grace of God, this could have been a mass casualty incident," he said. The county district attorney said Ramirez's motive and actions preceding the alleged crime will be revealed in court, while authorities previously said the suspect had been ejected from the club for intoxication prior to the car-ramming incident. Hochman alleged that Ramirez specifically aimed his vehicle at those outside the club. If convicted, Ramirez faces multiple life sentences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is being held without bond and is expected to be arraigned in court on Wednesday. "Our thoughts go out to not only the victims but to their families and friends as well, because this tragic event in their lives will reverberate forever in their lives. It reverberates in our community," Hochman said. "But, we are here to tell you that Mr. Ramirez will face justice." Ramirez was taken into police custody after being pulled from the vehicle by bystanders and shot in the back in the melee. Police continue to search for the gunman, the Los Angeles Police Department said in a release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The LAPD has released an image of the suspect online. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell told the public to consider the suspect armed and dangerous. "We're asking the public to help bring this person to justice before another act of violence occurs," he said. Los Angeles prosecutors announced felony charges Tuesday in connection with a car crash outside a nightclub over the weekend that injured at least 37 people and led to the driver being shot. Partygoers were leaving the Vermont Hollywood venue at the end of a reggae hip-hop event early Saturday when a vehicle rammed into the crowd along a busy boulevard in East Hollywood. The car came to a stop after colliding with several food carts, which became lodged underneath the vehicle, and bystanders attacked the driver, according to police. Injuries ranged from minor to serious fractures and lacerations, and some people were briefly trapped beneath the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced 37 counts of attempted murder and 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon against the driver, who was identified Sunday as 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez. Hes accused of intentionally driving his car onto the sidewalk. A phone number for Ramirez could not be found in an online database search, and the public defenders office has not responded to requests for comment on whether one of its attorneys is representing him. This was an unprovoked act of violence that injured 36 people, some critically, Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said. Its truly a miracle that no one was killed that day. Ramirez was later found to have been shot in the lower back, but authorities have not identified the suspected gunman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Los Angeles police released surveillance photos Monday from cameras near the crash showing a man with a goatee wearing a blue Dodgers jacket and a light blue jersey with the number 5. Ramirez has a criminal history that includes a battery and gang-related charge in 2014, an aggravated battery conviction for a 2019 attack on a Black man at a Whole Foods grocery store in Laguna Beach, California, and a domestic violence charge in 2021, records show. Ramirez has proved to be violent to strangers and family alike and clearly has a lack of concern for the safety of others, Orange County prosecutors said in a court filing for the 2019 attack. A 2024 drunken driving case and 2022 domestic violence charge were pending at the time of the nightclub crash, according to records. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) A driver is accused of hitting several vehicles, including two cop cars, during a police chase in Midtown on Tuesday morning, police said. Jose Sorte, 45, allegedly crashed into five cars after driving off when officers attempted to pull him over after an accident on Park Avenue in Manhattan at around 7 a.m., according to the NYPD. Sorte allegedly crashed into cars near 14th Street and Union Square and Fifth Avenue and East 59th Street, police said. He then continued driving to Lexington Avenue and 50th Street, where he was taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were no injuries. Sorte, a Connecticut resident, was charged with attempted assault, reckless driving, unlawful fleeing from police, running a red light, and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage, authorities said. His arraignment was pending Wednesday. Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. 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. A man who slammed his car into a crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub after he was tossed from the venue has been charged with 37 counts of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon in the crash that left dozens injured early Saturday morning. Fernando Ramirez, 29, of San Clemente, faces life in prison if convicted as charged, according to Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. Nathan Hochman. Ramirez was thrown out of the Vermont Hollywood nightclub early in the morning on July 19 but returned to the bustling area in a car around 2 a.m., police said. He plowed what police described as a "compact Nissan sedan" into a crowd of revelers, street vendors and pedestrians, with the vehicle only coming to rest after it slammed into food carts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 36 people sustained injuries, with some briefly trapped under the car until help arrived. Hochman said Tuesday that eight of those victims suffered "serious fractures, lacerations and broken bones." "But for the good grace of God, this could have been a mass casualty incident," Hochman said. Read more: East Hollywood club crash: What we know about the suspected driver and the man who shot him At least 23 people were hospitalized, but no fatalities were reported. Hochman said it was a "miracle" that no one died and credited the speedy response of police and firefighters for saving lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the crash, bystanders pulled Ramirez from the car and dragged him into the street, where he was punched, kicked and eventually shot. Authorities said he was in stable condition over the weekend. Police are still looking for the gunman. "We understand the emotions involved but when the threat had ended ... the use of deadly force was no longer lawful," said Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell. Ramirez is expected to make his first court appearance on Wednesday morning. It was not immediately clear if he had legal representation. The popular nightclub often has a line outside stretching down Vermont. Last Saturday it was hosting the Trapeton Party, a recurring dance party that features reggaeton and hip-hop music. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochman said he could not comment on the altercations that led to Ramirez's removal from the club or if he was targeting anyone specifically when he allegedly barreled his car into the crowd. He also declined to comment on whether or not Ramirez was drunk or high at the time. At the scene on Saturday morning, LAPD Rampart Division Capt. Ben Fernandes said Ramirez was removed from the club for being disruptive. Ramirez has a lengthy criminal record. He was convicted of a hate crime in 2020 for assaulting a Black Whole Foods employee and sentenced to four years in prison, though part of his conviction was overturned when an appellate court ruled that a police officer violated his Miranda rights. He also has prior convictions for assault on a police officer, resisting arrest and domestic violence stretching back to 2019. At the time of Saturday's incident, he was awaiting trial on charges of driving while intoxicated and domestic battery, according to the Orange County district attorney's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Times Staff Writer Richard Winton contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Jul. 22A man and woman previously indicted in connection to a Dayton police shooting and chase involving a stolen vehicle are facing additional charges. A grand jury indicted Heaven R. Shepherd on one count of possession of heroin and Rodney Smith Jr. on one count each of aggravated possession of drugs and possession of drugs in Montgomery County Common Pleas Court. They're scheduled to be arraigned on the new charges on July 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith is also facing having weapons while under disability and obstructing official business charges and Shepherd was previously indicted on receiving stolen property and failure to comply with charges. On June 12, Dayton police shot Smith while pursuing a Ford Fusion that had been reported stolen. Shepherd was driving the Ford when Dayton police attempted a traffic stop, but she fled, according to Montgomery County Municipal Court Western Division records An Ohio State Highway Patrol aviation unit followed the Ford and provided updates on its location to Dayton police. While on Miller Avenue, the Ford pulled up next to a pickup truck with a trailer attached. OSHP said something may have been exchanged or thrown out of the Ford near the truck, according to court records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dayton officers then came upon the truck, which had backed up in the road and was blocking the police's path. Police body camera footage showed an officer get out of the cruiser with their gun drawn. The officer told Smith to exit the truck and show his hands multiple times. Smith tried to put the truck into gear, but it wasn't working correctly, according to court records. He got out of the truck and started running in the opposite direction of police. The officer can be heard on the body camera footage that Smith had a gun before the officer briefly ran after him. The officer told Smith to drop the gun at least once before shooting him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dayton police Chief Kamran Afzal said only one shot was fired. "It appears, and again this is part of the criminal investigation, that he was shot right around the time as he's running with his handgun and looking back at the officer," he said. Smith was transported to the hospital. A Glock was recovered that had 11 rounds with one in the chamber, police said. Shepherd continued to a house in the 100 block of Pomeroy Avenue. The keys to the Ford were found in a backyard she ran through, according to court records. Police surrounded the house and ordered Shepherd come outside. When she exited the home, she told officers she consumed a large amount of narcotics and was overdosing, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was transported to the hospital. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is handling the criminal investigation. Once it's completed, the Dayton Police Department Professional Standards Bureau will conduct an administrative investigation. Clad in black in a modest apartment in central Beirut, Rima weeps for the relatives she lost in the recent wave of violence that engulfed Sweida, the Druze heartland in southern Syria. A Syrian Druze married to a Lebanese Druze, Rima speaks sorrowfully of a time when the region's main population groups - Druze, Sunni Muslims, Christians and Alawites - lived side by side. "We went to the same schools. We grew up together. We were neighbours and close friends," she says, wiping away tears. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rima, who was born in Sweida and stayed until she got married, says 10 of her cousins were killed by Sunni gunmen not far from Sweida. But even then, she stresses that sectarian hatred does not define her community life. "We are surrounded by Sunni Muslims, and many are still our friends," she says, recounting how her cousin and her daughters were saved by Sunni neighbours when armed men stormed their village. But her grief soon turns to anger. Rima blames Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, the Druze spiritual leader in Syria, for "destroying the unity of the Druze." She accuses him of pulling the community away from the Syrian state and sowing division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are Syrian Druze, not Israeli Druze. We must follow our government," she says. Suleiman al-Marshoud, mayor of the Sunni-majority al-Maqous neighbourhood in Sweida city, told dpa that 25 of his relatives were killed and dozens abducted when armed groups raided their homes. "We were trapped inside. They stole everything cars, furniture, even phones," he said. "I watched a woman and her infant gunned down." The Syrian army, he said, had withdrawn hours before the attack. In nearby Shahba, Sheikh Suleiman al-Hawarin, a local imam, said militias aligned with al-Hijri committed war crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Forty farm workers, mostly women and children from Deir al-Zour, al-Hassakeh, and Damascus, were massacred in one village alone," he told dpa. Despite the terrible violence that has torn this area apart, Rima holds on to her memories of unity in the face of hardship. During the Arab Spring anti-government protests in Syria in 2011, she marched with her Sunni friends demanding freedom. "We, the Druze of Syria, belong to this country. We must work with the state to protect our future, together with all Syrians." By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A group representing General Motors Ford and Chrysler-parent Stellantis on Tuesday raised concerns about a trade deal that could cut tariffs on auto imports from Japan to 15% while leaving tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico at 25%. Matt Blunt, who heads the American Automotive Policy Council that represents the Detroit Three automakers, said they were still reviewing the agreement but "any deal that charges a lower tariff for Japanese imports with virtually no U.S. content than the tariff imposed on North American built vehicles with high U.S. content is a bad deal for U.S. industry and U.S. auto workers." Trump has threatened to hike tariffs on Mexico to 30% and Canada to 35% on August 1. White House spokesman Kush Desai defended the deal, calling it "a historic win for American automakers by putting an end to Japans unfair auto trade barriers for American-made cars." GM said Tuesday its second-quarter earnings took a $1.1-billion hit from tariffs and expects the impact to worsen in the third quarter. Stellantis said Monday it expects more impact from U.S. tariffs on vehicles and auto part imports in the second half of 2025, reporting Trump's tariffs had cost it 300 million euros ($352 million) so far as the company reduced vehicle shipments and cut some production to adjust manufacturing levels. In May, AAPC criticized Trump's announced trade deal with Britain, saying it would harm the U.S. auto sector. British carmakers will be given a quota of 100,000 cars a year that can be sent to the United States at a 10% tariff rate, almost the total Britain exported last year. "This hurts American automakers, suppliers, and auto workers," AAPC said. Trump in April softened the blow of his auto tariffs by easing the impact of duties on parts and materials, but left in place 25% tariffs on imported vehicles. He also extended a duty-free exemption for North American parts that comply with the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement rules of origin. ($1 = 0.8521 euros) (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Christopher Cushing and Stephen Coates) Six-year-old Adam often wakes up at night crying from hunger, his mother Sama Abu Dawud told dpa. "I only want one thing - to give my children warm bread," said the 29-year-old in Gaza. She said her 14-year-old brother died three months ago as a result of starvation. Doctors had told the family that his organs had failed due to malnutrition. The account provided by the Palestinian woman, who lives in Deir al-Balah in the centre of the Gaza Strip, cannot be independently verified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Wednesday against a deadly hunger crisis in the Gaza Strip, with the agency's chief stressing that famine was "another killer" facing civilians. Mohammed Judi, who used to weigh 84 kilograms, says he has lost around 30 kilograms since the start of the Gaza war following the Hamas attacks on southern Israel in October 2023. He now feels dizzy all the time, says the father of five. Judi's six-year-old daughter is gradually losing her hair due to malnutrition, he says. "We are dying quietly," says the 37-year-old. dpa cannot verify his account. Fight for relief supplies An Israeli government spokesman admitted on Wednesday that there is indeed hunger in the Gaza Strip, but stressed that this was not Israel's fault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, he blamed Palestinian extremist group Hamas, accusing it of trying to prevent the distribution of aid to the population and hijacking aid lorries and selling them on to traders at high prices to pay their fighters. Many Gazans report that they are surviving on one meal a day, as the little food that's sold at markets is very overpriced, making them dependent on aid deliveries of which they say too little reaches the strip. Locals also told dpa about violence and chaos that broke out at aid distribution points. Once new deliveries arrive, the news is shared mouth-to-mouth and via social media, they say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gazan Mohammed Salem reports of one time when men were pushed in the waiting crowd and a boy collapsed as a result. "People just stepped over him." Salem doesn't know what happened to the boy, he says. Those who are weak or old are left empty-handed in the fight for relief supplies, according to the 41-year-old. According to the UN Human Rights Office, more than 1,000 people have died so far while trying to get food, with 766 killed near the controversial distribution centres operated by the Israel- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Some 288 people were killed "near UN and other humanitarian organizations' aid convoys," said spokesman Thameen Al-Kheetan. GHF aid not properly distributed, Gazans say Hiba al-Chatib, 28, reports that a man recently elbowed her hard in the chest and then stole a box of food from her, an aid parcel received from GHF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GHF drivers simply throw the parcels onto the ground and then drive away, with no one around to distribute the aid, says the young woman. Other residents from the Gaza Strip have backed her account of this behaviour. The GHF did not respond when asked for comment. "Not even animals would be treated like this," says al-Chatib. The boxes distributed by GHF contain contain rice, chickpeas, milk powder, oil and tinned beans, among other items, she says, adding that one parcel is enough to feed her family of six for four days, though they only eat once a day. "People are dying from lack of humanitarian assistance every day, and we are seeing this escalate day by day," said Ross Smith, director of emergency preparedness and response at WFP, in New York earlier this week. "Malnutrition is surging with 90,000 women and children in urgent need of treatment," the organization has said. E-scooter riders could be forced to fit licence plates, pass a test and buy insurance under a proposed Government crackdown. A minimum age of 14 could also be set together with legal restrictions on the power of the machines, The Telegraph understands. It comes after a 2,000 per cent increase in teenagers caught driving without insurance last year was blamed on e-scooter misuse, according to IAM Roadsmart, the motoring charity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other measures being drawn up by ministers include forcing manufacturers to limit their machines top speed. The plans could trigger a row with Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London. Last October, Transport for London, which the Mayor chairs, said it was considering letting 16-year-olds ride the machines in public, lowering the age from the current limit of 18. A Government source said: We will commit to holding a consultation on this with legislation to follow. Formal consultations are an important step taken by government departments before new laws are proposed to Parliament. Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has banned e-bikes and electric scooters from Londons transport network - Doug Peters/PA Wire Driver-style licensing for e-scooters is not understood to be part of the Governments plans, with the source saying that a German-style system of passing an online test is one model being looked at by ministers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were consulting on whether to do that, the source said. There is a spectrum of options that are lighter or lower-burden than full driver licensing. Options being looked at include passing an online test, although such moves may fall short of what motoring campaigners have called for. Nicholas Lyes, policy director at IAM Roadsmart, told The Telegraph in February: The Government needs to urgently bring forward legislation on private e-scooters, which must include minimum type approval device standards, speed limiters and proposals for riders to have a minimum level of competency. E-scooters are regular foot-operated scooters that have been fitted with an electric motor to make them go faster with less effort by the rider. E-scooters can be hired by anyone over the age of 18 with a full or provisional driving licence - Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images Legally, such modified scooters cannot be used on public roads unless they are hired from a government-approved company but about 750,000 are thought to have been sold in Britain to date, according to IAM Roadsmart earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of trial schemes around the country allow members of the public to rent e-scooters from Government-licensed businesses such as Lime. Typically their top speed is limited to 15.5mph, although the limit is 12.5mph in London. Riders must hold at least a provisional driving licence to use one on public roads, the Government says. Mr Lyes of IAM Roadsmart said: E-scooters have the potential to change the way we do short trips, but for years the UK has been plagued by confusing laws, questionable device quality, poor riding standards and now heavily modified machines capable of dangerous speeds. We need to urgently introduce legislation that provides a basic competency test for all e-scooter users while also bringing forward a type approval that ensures devices are built to high safety standards. 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. Who's up for breakfast and a rocket launch? An early morning rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida is slated to lift off on Friday. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is expected to deploy a payload of Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory shows. Though rockets launch in Florida from NASA's Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, people beyond the area can sometimes see this phenomenon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, a rocket launch from Floridas Space Coast can be visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach. When theres a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, theres an opportunity for unique photos the rocket lights up the dark sky and the contrail after makes for a great photo. Below is more information about the SpaceX rocket launches in Florida and suggestions on where to watch them from Palm Beach County. Rocket launch tally: Here's a list of all 2025 missions from Cape Canaveral, Florida (psst, there's a lot) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space. When is the next SpaceX rocket launch from Florida? No earlier than Friday, July 25: SpaceX Starlink 10-26 Mission: SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 and deploy a payload of Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory shows. Launch window: 4:50 a.m. to 9:32 a.m. on Friday, July 25 Location: Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Trajectory: Southeast. Sonic booms: No. Live coverage starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space: You can watch live rocket launch coverage from USA TODAY Networks Space Team, which consists of FLORIDA TODAY space reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards and visuals journalists Craig Bailey, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Shortt. Our Space Team will provide up-to-the-minute updates in a mobile-friendly live blog, complete with a countdown clock, at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. You can download the free FLORIDA TODAY app, which is available in the App Store or Google Play, or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser. Where to see a Florida rocket launch in Palm Beach County: What does a West Palm Beach rocket launch view look like? Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, some rocket launches from the Space Coast can be visible in Palm Beach County. When theres a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, with a southeast trajectory, theres an opportunity for unique photos. Some examples include United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy rocket launch and SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From Cape Canaveral, Florida, to West Palm Beach, Florida, it's about 150 miles. What the views look like: Rocket launches from Cape Canaveral spotted in West Palm Beach Rocket launches from Cape Canaveral can often be seen from Palm Beach County, and it can be as easy as walking out of your house and looking north. Try to get away from any obstructions, such as trees, tall buildings, and bright lights. Obviously, cloud cover can also get in the way. If the forecast is for clear skies and you want a better view, some good places to watch the rocket launch from Palm Beach County include: This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida rocket launches: Watch the next SpaceX launch from West Palm Beach Jul. 22EAST GRAND FORKS East Grand Forks will begin accepting applications for cannabis businesses at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 23. The registration period will close at 4 p.m. on Aug. 6. Businesses still need a license with the Office of Cannabis Management to operate and legally sell cannabis and cannabis-derived products. However, cities are now available to issue cannabis registrations to businesses with preliminary license approvals from the OCM. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The forms are available on the city's website for the 13 types of businesses. Registrations will have to be renewed annually, similar to how liquor licenses are processed. If needed, a lottery will occur at 10 a.m. on Aug. 21 in the East Grand Forks Council Chambers. The city has limited the total number of retail cannabis businesses to two: one in the highway commercial district and another in downtown. EDITORS NOTE: This story was updated to correct an error regarding who reached out to Glocester police. EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) An East Providence firefighter is facing felony gun charges after being arrested in Glocester, according to police. The East Providence Police Department contacted Glocester police on June 30 about a potential red flag situation involving one of the citys firefighters, 38-year-old Hoan Su. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Su allegedly threatened to shoot a colleague in the face. When officers went to his home on Stirling Drive, no one answered the door. Police later reached Sus fiancee by phone, who said he was not home but had been admitted to the hospital. She reportedly allowed officers to enter the home. Inside, police found two shotguns, a rifle, several rounds of ammunition, three loaded AR-style high-capacity magazines, and two unloaded .40 caliber high-capacity magazines in the basement. Three more unloaded AR-style magazines were found in an upstairs bedroom, police said. Su is facing eight felony counts of possessing large-capacity feeding devices, according to the criminal complaint. He did not enter a plea during his July 2 arraignment and was released on $10,000 personal recognizance with an order to undergo pretrial mental health monitoring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Su is due back in court for a pre-arraignment conference in October. His attorney has not yet responded to 12 News request for comment. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: 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. TYLER, Texas (KETK) Following the passing of House Bill 2, which provides public schools in Texas with additional funds and resources, several school districts across East Texas have permitted raises for their teachers. Several raises were announced at district board meetings earlier this week and will be implemented before the start of the upcoming school year. Tyler ISD During a meeting on Monday, the Tyler ISD Board of Trustees approved the 2025-2026 Budget and Compensation Structure, which will increase the salary for all Tyler ISD teachers and provide them with a substantial raise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Union Grove ISD accepts superintendents resignation during a special meeting on Tuesday Were incredibly appreciative that the Legislature was able to get House Bill 2 across the finish line, Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford said. This means a $2,500 or even $5,000 raise for many of our teachers in Tyler ISD, which is a major step forward in valuing their work and commitment. Under the new plan: The starting salary for certified teachers will increase by $1,500 to $52,000. Teachers with 1 year of experience, though not funded by HB 2, will receive a $1,500 raise. Teachers with 2 years of experience, though not funded by HB 2 or included in the previous pay scale increases, will receive a $1,000 raise. Teachers with 3-4 years of experience will receive a $2,500 raise, funded through HB 2. Teachers with 5+ years of experience will see a $5,000 raise, funded through HB 2. Longview ISD Before the new school year begins, Longview ISD announced a new compensation plan that increases the salaries of its teachers, staff, administration, and hourly employees. The plan was approved after it was previously announced in June that the minimum teacher salary will be set at $55,000. Courtesy of Longview ISD In compliance with the new plan: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Librarians and registered nurses will receive a $1,500 raise Hourly support staff will receive a 3 percent pay increase Administrative professionals receive 2 percent pay bumps Planned Parenthood in Tyler closes sparking response from lawmakers, faith leaders Shalona McCray, the districts chief human resource officer, stated that the new compensation plan aims to help retain talented teachers while rewarding staff members for their hard work throughout the year. We want to stay competitive in recruiting and retaining our best people, McCray said. These targeted increases, layered on across all roles, reflect our commitment to fairness and to honoring the work happening in classrooms, libraries, nurses offices, and every support role. Edgewood ISD During the Edgewood Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, it was announced that district employees will receive a pay raise for the upcoming school year in accordance with House Bill 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district stated that teachers with five or more years of service will receive an $8,000 raise, while teachers with three or four years of service will receive a $4,000 raise. Additionally, all employees will now be eligible for pay raises of nine to ten percent. Winnsboro ISD During a board meeting held on Monday night, the school board approved an increase for Winnsboro ISD teacher and staff salaries in accordance with House Bill 2. The district stated that teachers with five or more years of service will receive an $8,000 raise, while teachers with three or four years of service will receive a $4,000 raise. Additionally, paraprofessionals and hourly staff members will receive a $1 increase in pay, while directors, counselors, and administrators will receive a 3 percent increase in pay. Courtesy of Winnsboro ISD You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement 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 KETK.com | FOX51.com. Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd | Official photo On Tuesday, Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd announced his campaign for attorney general, joining one other Republican, defense attorney Kevin Kijewski, in seeking the partys nomination. Lloyd has served as the county prosecutor since 2013, previously serving as the countys chief assistant prosecuting attorney and overseeing the offices economic crimes unit. He is also a former president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I love Eaton County and my Office, and I have been honored to be the Eaton County Prosecutor for the last 12 years. But in my heart, I feel that there are changes that must be made at the state level and I believe I am the person who can make that happen, Lloyd said in a post to Facebook. Opposite Lloyd and Kijewski, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit and former U.S. Attorney Mark Totten of the Western District of Michigan have announced their intent to seek the Democratic nomination. Current Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, is term-limited. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd is now running for Michigan Attorney General, he announced Tuesday. He joins Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, former United States Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten, Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit, and Birmingham area lawyer Kevin Kijewski in the race for office. Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd. (COURTESY PHOTO/EATON COUNTY) While others chase headlines or spend their days playing politics, Ive been putting bad guys behind bars and working to make my community safer, said Lloyd in his announcement. Leading a prosecutors office. Standing up for victims. Charging serious cases. Training young attorneys. And critically, working side by side with law enforcement to keep communities safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lloyd, a Republican, has worked in the Eaton County Prosecutors Office since 2000, where he was in charge of the Economic Crimes Unit, climbing from Assistant Prosecuting Attorney to Chief Prosecuting Attorney by 2013. He has a total of nearly three decades of experience as a prosecutor. He was elected as county prosecutor in 2014 after being appointed to the position in 2013 when his predecessor, Jeffrey L. Sauter, became a Circuit Court judge. According to his announcement, he manages a team of 25 and handles a criminal case load of more than 6,000 cases a year. Lloyd has been appointed to various state initiatives, such as the Organized Retail Fraud Advisory Board, the Insurance Fraud Task Force, and the State Drug Treatment Court Advisory Committee. He is also a member of ht Board of Directors for the Prosecuting Attorneys Association and previously served on the board of the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Eaton 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 WLNS 6 News. Former Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia expected to be named Fort Worths next police chief, as first reported by The Dallas Express is now at the center of controversy over the timing of his application, with at least one community leader calling the process certainly unethical. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Garcia currently serves as assistant city manager in Austin and is considered the frontrunner to replace retiring Fort Worth Chief Neil Noakes. However, new concerns have surfaced after multiple sources and media reports indicated that Garcia may have submitted his application after the official deadline, prompting accusations of favoritism and procedural misconduct. DX Broke the Story of Garcias Imminent Appointment Sources told The Dallas Express last week that Garcia is all but guaranteed to receive the job, with an official announcement expected following a public forum on August 14 at Fort Worth City Hall. Other finalists include Interim Chief Robert Alldredge and former Dallas Deputy Chief Vernon Hale. Los Angeles Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides has since withdrawn from consideration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The application window for the Fort Worth chief position reportedly closed in early June after receiving 51 submissions. Garcias name was not included among the initial pool of applicants, yet he ultimately appeared as one of four public finalists. Pastor Rev. Kyev Tatum, a well-known community leader in Fort Worth, denounced the circumstances surrounding Garcias candidacy, calling it a slap in the face to the integrity of the entire selection process, and asserting its certainly unethical. His comments, reported by Audacy, have since circulated widely, fueling a broader outcry over the citys handling of the process. City Manager Jay Chapa, who will make the final selection, has not publicly addressed the timing of Garcias application. Mayor Mattie Parker has called for a transparent process, but city officials have not explained how Garcias application was considered after the deadline. Garcias Exit from Dallas Still Raises Eyebrows Garcia resigned from the Dallas Police Department in October 2024, just months after signing a contract extension that was set to run through May 2027. He cited burnout and a desire for balance in a Fox 4 interview, stating: There is no balance in this job. If you can find something to work hard at while able to find balance, thats something I was ready for in my next chapter. Garcia left to serve under former Dallas City Manager T.C. Broadnax in Austin, taking a public safety role with an annual salary of $327,000 significantly higher than the $275,000 listed for the Fort Worth position. Garcias sudden return to policing has led some observers to question whether his move is motivated by a desire for public service or a political calculus. Community Reaction Split Fort Worth activist Cory Session has praised Garcias candidacy, calling it a potential coup for the city. But other voices including @KeepDallasSafe have highlighted Garcias downtown crime record during his time in Dallas, posting, Under his watch, violent crime rose 42% downtown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Criminologist Dr. Alex Del Carmen told reporters that Garcias return was not unexpected and might lead to healthy competition between Dallas and Fort Worth in terms of law enforcement performance. Still, concerns over an unethical selection process persist. With no clear answers from City Hall, the upcoming public forum on August 14 could become a flashpoint for community frustration. Delaware is becoming an unpopular state for corporations. This week, Dillards Inc. disclosed that it wants to reincorporate its business in Texas, and get out of Delaware. Since 1964, Dillards has been incorporated in Delaware where many other retail companies and other businesses have been incorporated. More from WWD Dillards decision to reincorporate in Texas, which is subject to a shareholder vote, is partly due to recent decisions in Delaware courts involving other companies and corporate matters unfavorable to controlling stockholders. One such prominent case recently involved a ruling in Delaware voiding massive compensation for Elon Musk at Tesla. Consequently, Tesla decided to reincorporate in Texas last year. But a number of other major companies have also reincorporated away from Delaware this year, including the Simon Property Group, which reincorporated in Indiana, and the Trump Media & Technology Group, which incorporated in Florida. Dillards is also citing tax liabilities and other costs associated with being incorporated in Delaware. Earlier this year, Dillards authorized a special committee to examine reincorporating in Texas. Following an extensive process Dillards indicated in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, the committee determined the move should be made. Helping Dillards in the matter is Haynes Boone, the legal counsel for Dillards, and Vinson & Elkins and Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, a Delaware firm, representing the special committee. The special committee concluded that Texas statute-focused approach would likely foster more predictability than Delawares common law approach, and that predictability could be a competitive advantage, the filing indicated. The Little Rock, Ark.-based retailer also cited recurring franchise tax and escheatment liabilities in Delaware, and the apparent increase in contingency fee-driven stockholder litigation in Delaware and resulting increase in insurance premiums for director and officer insurance. As such, the company believes leaving Delaware would lower its costs. In addition, Dillards operates 55 stores in Texas, making it the state with the retailers largest presence. According to the filing, The Texas reincorporation reflects the companys strong operational nexus in Texas, preserves stockholder economic and votings rights, with expansion of rights to call a special meeting or act by unanimous written consent, may reduce frivolous litigation, and will create cost savings in terms of annual franchise tax cost and management time. It can make you dizzy, trying to figure out what is going on inside Gov. Ron DeSantis head, particularly when it comes to ethics laws meant to hold Floridas leaders accountable and in balance. Throughout his tenure, the governor has made a great show of removing elected officials from public office, often scolding them for ethical violations or gross incompetence. Yet when a bill (HB 1445) landed on his desk, making it illegal for elected and appointed officials to shake down lobbyists for campaign contributions, he whipped out his veto pen. According to that same veto message, he doesnt think people appointed to powerful boards should necessarily be residents of the state of Florida or even citizens of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, he apparently thinks it should be a crime for illegal immigrants to set foot in Florida, as described in a new measure (known as SB 4C) that he enthusiastically signed into law earlier this year. We cant pretend to understand what the governor was thinking, even with his statements at press conferences and the memo that accompanied the veto of HB 1445. But House and Senate leaders dont need to read the governors mind; they just need to override his nonsensical veto and get this law on the books. Not for sale Thats because the legislation made such obvious sense. The people of Florida have the right to expect that public officials wont use their official authority or influence to solicit campaign contributions from lobbyists, especially when a constitutional provision already bans them from obtaining any favors or financial advantage from the public trust they hold. If anything, HB 1445 didnt go far enough. It should have explicitly banned politicians from seeking any kind of financial advantage. But the ban on campaign contributions made sense, and would be relatively easy to investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The would-be law includes a section aimed specifically at water management districts and might have proven a stumbling block for John Miklos, whose tenure as the head of the St. Johns River Water Management District was marred by allegations of special favors for developers seeking to build on environmentally sensitive land. Its important to note that Miklos has never been charged with any crime. But it makes sense to hold water management officials who oversee hundreds of millions of dollars worth of public land, and award permits that are essential to developers to high standards of transparency and fairness. Floridians have a right to know their leaders arent selling the power entrusted in them to the highest bidder. Its a shame DeSantis doesnt agree. Perhaps the answer lies in a well-sourced story by NBC News, claiming that some of the governors staffers were asking lobbyists who had contracts with the state for campaign contributions and urging them not to contribute to the campaign of Byron Donalds, who is running for governor in 2026. At one time, Casey DeSantis the governors wife was said to be considering a run herself. Of the people State residents also deserve direct representation on powerful boards such as the state Board of Governors, which oversees the university system, or universities individual boards of trustees. Under HB 1445, they would have been required to live in Florida or at least to have attended a Florida university. The governor took issue with this in his veto message, arguing that citizen was too generic to imply that appointees be residents of this state. As a side note, taxpayers also shouldnt be paying five-figure commuting costs for high-paid state employees, such as the four high-level Florida IT officials who the Sentinels Jeff Schweers discovered were living out of state and had billed Florida for $56,000 in travel expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its also worth noting that HB 1445 won all but unanimous approval, from Republicans and Democrats alike, with only one lawmaker (Rep. Matt Caruso, R-West Palm Beach) voting against it. Certainly, there was some subtext here. The 2025 legislative session marked a sharp departure from DeSantis previously tight control of a docile Legislature. Its certainly possible to see the provisions of the legislation as intentional pokes at the governors do as I say, not as I do, attitude. But HB 1445 was a good law, one that made perfect sense. We hope Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez give their members a chance to drive this message home with a veto override that pushes the bill into law regardless of the governors opposition. The Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Krys Fluker, Executive Editor Roger Simmons and Viewpoints Editor Jay Reddick. Contact us at insight@orlandosentinel.com. EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) Effingham Unit 40 Schools is facing the possibility of having to shut down afterschool programming due to a lack of funding from the federal government. The districts programming is funded by a federal grant called the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant. Superintendent Andrew Johnson addressed the status of this funding during the districts Board of Education meeting on Monday, saying that around the start of July, the district was informed the federal government would no longer provide that grant. Effingham County deputies rewarded for saving womans life in Dietrich Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From my understanding, there were multiple states that sued the government, Johnson said. And it appears, though I dont have confirmation, that there is a very good chance that that is going to be back on the table and allocated and paid out. If the district does get paid, it would receive $567,000 to fund its 21st Century Community Learning Centers Club for the next two school years. That amount was promised in January, Johnson said, but without it, programming would cease altogether. We are not at a point that we can sustain that program, Johnson said. Its got me a little bit fearful at this point right now of the ups and downs and ins and outs. The uncertainty of whether or not the district will get the funding led Johnson to say programming probably would not start until Sept. 1 at the earliest, and the start could be pushed back another month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please understand right now its on pause, Johnson said. I dont want to unpause it right now because I dont have anything official that says were getting the funding. Effingham Unit 40 is not the only school district facing this possibility. The Paris Union School District announced last week that they too have to delay the start of their afterschool programming because they never received funding from the 21st Century grant. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Lawmakers across the country filed more bills to restrict or protect libraries and readers in the first half of this year than last year, a new report found. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) State lawmakers across the country filed more bills to restrict or protect libraries and readers in the first half of this year than last year, a new report found. The split fell largely along geographic lines, according to the report from EveryLibrary, a group that advocates against book bans and censorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between January and July 2025, lawmakers introduced 133 bills that the organization deemed harmful to libraries, librarians or readers rights in 33 states an increase from 121 bills in all of 2024. Fourteen of those measures had passed as of mid-July. Iowa legislation In Iowa, EveryLibrary listed 10 bills none of which passed that it considered harmful to libraries. For example, House File 521 would rewrite obscenity laws to remove an exemption for educational institutions and libraries. Another bill, House File 880, would strip state funds from libraries based on their membership in state and national library associations. Iowa Capital Dispatch Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, legislators introduced 76 bills in 32 states to protect library services or affirm the right to read, the report found. The geographic split among these policies is stark. In Southern and Plains states, new laws increasingly criminalize certain actions of librarians, restrict access to materials about gender and race, and transfer decision-making power to politically appointed boards or parent-led councils. Texas alone passed a trio of sweeping laws stripping educators of certain legal protections when providing potentially obscene materials; banning public funding for instructional materials containing obscene content; and giving parents more authority over student reading choices and new library additions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee lowered the bar to prosecute educators for sharing books that might be considered harmful to minors. A New Hampshire bill likewise wouldve made it easier for parents or the state attorney general to bring civil actions against school employees for distributing material deemed harmful to minors, but it was vetoed by Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte. In Nebraska, a new law allows for real-time alerts for parents every time a student checks out a book. South Dakota requires libraries and schools to install filtering software. New laws in Idaho heighten the requirements to form library districts and mandate stricter internet filtering policies that are tied to state funding. In contrast, several Northeastern states have passed legislation protections for libraries and librarians and anti-censorship laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey, Delaware, Rhode Island and Connecticut have each enacted freedom to read or other laws that codify protections against ideological censorship in libraries. Connecticut also took a major step in modernizing libraries in the digital age, the report said, becoming the first state in the nation to pass a law regulating how libraries license and manage e-books and digital audiobooks. Stateline reporter Robbie Sequeira can be reached at rsequeira@stateline.org. This story was originally published by Stateline, which 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. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) Meet the new bar. Same as the old bar. Well, sort of. On Tuesday, the Tuscaloosa City Council approved Tuesday a liquor license for Egans Irish Pub, a new bar that will sit on the same storied spot at the corner of University Boulevard and Red Drew Avenue that was the longtime home of Egans Bar, its spiritual predecessor that countless locals called home under its cigarette-stained ceilings for over 40 years. Co-owner Nick Chichester told The Tuscaloosa News that it wouldnt be right to have a bar at the former Egans without paying tribute to the iconic bar, a staple of Tuscaloosa night life where bands like Baak Gwai and Alabama Shakes played behind its dart board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one can ever recreate the old Egans, so we arent trying to, Chichester said. We simply want to recreate the spirit of it. Egans Bar was a local institution from 1979 until it closed its doors for good in 2021. Another bar, Unique, took its place, opting to go its own route and compete with the more nightclub scene of The Strip. The bar closed at the end of May. Chichester and his team have been in the building since last month and are hurrying to open the bar soon, maybe even in the upcoming weeks, Tuscaloosa Thread reported. As opposed to the former Egans, Egans Irish Bar will operate under the concept of an Irish pub, but Chichester was quick to add that the bars future could become anything it wanted to be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bars are built on the community of patrons that feel comfortable in its environment, he told The News. Even as health awareness and business restrictions changed in Tuscaloosa over the years, Egans Bar remained a haven for smokers, allowing smoking inside even in its final years. However, that wont be the case for the new Egans. We are non-smoking inside, but we have a patio in the front, and are in the works on a rear patio to accommodate our smoking guests, Chichester 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 CBS 42. Eight members of the Paris-based Chur dEnfants dIle-deFrance were taken to Massachusetts hospitals Monday night after experiencing seizurelike symptoms midway through their concert at St. Pauls Church in Harvard Square. The youth chorus, whose members are between 11 and 13 years old, was performing as part of their U.S. tour when crews were alerted around 7:30 p.m. to a child suffering from a seizure inside the Cambridge church. When firefighters arrived, they found the child seated outside the entrance, breathing but distressed. Almost immediately, seven more children began to exhibit similar seizurelike behavior, Cambridge Fire Chief Thomas Cahill told WCVB. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This was somewhat unusual," Cahill said. "It was a routine medical call that quickly escalated into transporting eight children to the hospital. Not common." All eight children were taken to nearby hospitals and have since been released. Still, officials cannot identify a cause for the children falling ill, but say those in attendance had complained of smelling something unusual before the children began showing symptoms. Eight children in a French choir performing at a Boston church fell ill. The crowd reported an odor, but investigators said they found nothing out of the orinary. (Cambridge Fire Dept.) All eight kids have been released from the hospital after being treated. (Cambridge Fire Dept.) In response, the fire departments hazardous materials unit conducted a full environmental sweep of the church, performing airquality tests and ventilating the premises. The findings showed no hazardous substances present. "We are in the process of clearing the building to turn it back over to Harvard University at this time," Cahill told the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 70 other attendees at the concert were unaffected, the department said. St. Pauls Church confirmed the choirs appearance, describing the performance as a mix of sacred, secular and popular French music. The church offered no further comment beyond acknowledging the incident. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) Another controlled explosive demolition is planned for Wednesday night that will take down two piers of the old eastbound span of the McClugage Bridge. Weather permitting, the bridge will close in both directions at approximately 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. IDOT said a full bridge closure is necessary as its not safe for people to drive near an explosion. The full bridge closure includes both directions of U.S. Route 150 between Adams Street in Peoria and Illinois Route 116 in East Peoria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IDOT detonates Peoria-side trusses of old McClugage Bridge span The explosion will remove piers 7 and 8, which are near the Peoria side of the bridge. The closure is expected to last 30 minutes before the blast and will reopen as soon as conditions are safe. Traffic will be routed off U.S. Route 150 at interchange ramps and will be continuously moving. No stopping on the route will be allowed. Adams Street will remain open in both directions. IDOT said this will be the eighth event to remove components of the old structure. After Wednesdays explosion, the remaining blasts, which could occur this week, will take down more concrete piers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you want to watch the explosion, be aware that there will be a security perimeter around the blast area that will be in effect on land and in the water. People should not go onto private property without prior approval. McClugage Bridge to close for pier demolition Drones will be used by the contractor performing this work to make sure it is a safe and successful detonation. Because of this, civilian drones will be required to stay at least 1,000 feet north of the bridge and at least 300 feet above the ground. IDOT said any incursions into this area may cause postponement of the blast and the drone pilot liable for delays to the contractor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on the project, visit McClugageBridge.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 CIProud.com. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Custer County search and rescue (SAR) has been busy with emergency rescues on the Cathedral Spires trail this week. Significant crash near Full Throttle Saloon In a Facebook post, Custer County SAR said they were dodging bullets with two rescues in the area, both happening within the last two days. Tuesday night, SAR was paged for an elderly hiker with a knee injury at the Cathedral Spires trail. Crews came in from the Cathedral Spires trailhead with Custer Ambulance and the rescue team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Significant crash near Full Throttle Saloon Patient contact was made, and as medical care was being provided, the crew determined theyd have to go in through the top of the trail, meaning theyd have to carry the stretcher back to the UTV and redeploy at the Little Devils Tower trail #4 an extremely dangerous terrain to traverse. Custer County SAR said in their Facebook post that even though they had the best UTV available, only few members can operate it safely in that area. Crews succeeded in getting the patient to the UTV and back down to the Little Devils Tower trailhead, where the ambulance had redeployed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just as SAR had finished up the call, a heavy thunderstorm hit the area. Custer County SAR said that had the storm hit 30 minutes earlier, there wouldve been a high chance that the rescue would have to be delayed until morning, as the wet trails would be hazardous. Helicopter extraction also would not have been an option if storms hit. On Wednesday, the rescues didnt stop, as SAR received a call for a lost child also at the Cathedral Spires trail. The child was found shortly after crews deployed, dodging another bullet as SAR put it. Old Courthouse roof replaced via hanging basket Custer County SAR is reiterating that a majority of the trails leading up to Black Elk Peak are strenuous, and advise those with pre-existing health conditions not to attempt them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cathedral Spires trail has many offshoots, nooks, and crannies for a child to wander off and get lost, SAR said in a post. They advise to monitor any children closely on these trails. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 FRANCISCO (KRON) An elderly man who was struck by an electric scooter while walking in San Francisco on July 18 and later died at the hospital was identified Wednesday. The man was identified as Peter David Rudolph, 77, of San Francisco, by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Rudolph was walking on Market and Sixth streets in the Tenderloin District just before 4 p.m. when a person on a scooter crashed into him, according to the San Francisco Police Department. The scooter rider remained at the scene and was cooperative with police, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. No charges against the rider have been announced as of Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hit-and-run driver flees SF fatal pedestrian crash Wednesday Safe streets advocacy group Walk San Francisco said there have been 13 pedestrian-related crashes at the same intersection since 2015. The incident marked the citys ninth pedestrian death of 2025, according to Walk SF. People walking in San Francisco shouldnt have to worry about being hit by any type of vehicle, whether a car or an e-scooter, said Walk SF Communications Director Marta Lindsey. Like motor vehicles, electric micro-mobility devices can accelerate quickly to higher speeds which increases the chances and severity of a 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 KRON4. A London man charged with murder over four years ago was sentenced to 30 years in the state penitentiary in Laurel Circuit Court Wednesday, July 16. Brian Keith Eldridge, 50, was sentenced for the June 30, 2021, fatal shooting of acquaintance Timothy Preston Miller. On that day, according to previous reports, Miller had been driving along Hal Rogers Parkway in western Laurel County when Eldridge allegedly pulled up beside him and began firing into the drivers side door. Miller then pulled off the roadway; however, Eldridge allegedly turned around and fired several additional shots into Millers vehicle. Eldridge then fled the scene. Despite efforts to save Millers life, including an off-duty nurse performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and EMS personnel administering aid, he was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene by the Laurel County Coroners Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laurel County Sheriffs investigators were dispatched to the shooting at approximately 2:18 p.m. Eldridges flight from the scene resulted in Laurel 9-1-1 Dispatchers notifying Pulaski County law enforcement of the situation. As a result, Eldridges vehicle was stopped by Somerset Police and Kentucky State Police just ahead of Somerset City Limits. A pistol was then located inside Eldridges vehicle. It was believed to have been used in the shooting. According to a press release from the time of the shooting, when speaking with investigators, Eldridge admitted to shooting Miller but told them that he did not know why he had shot him. He was arrested for the murder and lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center that night. Last Wednesday, the court heard from Kenneth Miller, who identified himself as Timothy Millers oldest brother. Kenneth Miller began by thanking the court and Commonwealths Attorney Office, before then directing the following victims impact statement at Eldridge: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt agree to this 30 years for you. We feel like you should never see daylight as a free man again because we believe you will go and hunt down somebody else who doesnt deserve it, Miller said. Youre getting off light, son. You got a 30-year sentence. My sister, my brother, his children, and myself we get a life sentence. We get to spend the rest of our life missing holidays with my brother, going out and doing stupid things that brothers, sisters, and children do. So you have gotten off really light. My biggest prayer is that, someday, you find yourself getting forgiveness from the Lord for what you have done. Laurel Circuit Judge Michael Caperton proceeded to sentence Eldridge, who was represented by defense attorney Kaitlyn Hammonds. Other cases that moved forward Wednesday included: Micheal Jonathan Caldwell, charged with wanton endangerment, was sentenced to five years probated for five years on the condition that he serves 12 days in jail and 90 days as an in-patient for substance abuse treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonathan Campbell, charged with murder as the result of a May 2021 crash on KY 192, had his final pretrial conference set for August 13 at 9 a.m. The incident is said to have occurred when Campbells vehicle struck three cars, causing the death of one driver. Carl Edward Meade, 80, has a final pretrial conference scheduled on October 15 at 9 a.m. Meade is charged on several counts including rape, assault, and sexual abuse of a minor in two separate incidents. Hammonds represented Meade on behalf of his usual attorney, Emily Croucher. Martin C. Ellis, 62, of Bill Mays Road in London, had his final pretrial conference set for August 13 at 9 a.m. Ellis is jointly charged with his wife, 58-year-old Teresa Mae Smith-Ellis, for intimidating a participant in the legal process. Mr. Ellis, represented by Hammonds on Crouchers behalf, faces nine other counts. He is solely charged for sexual crimes involving at least two victims. The first of those counts is first-degree rape, occurring between April 2022 and April 2023. He is also accused of first-degree sodomy during that timeframe. Ellis third, fourth, and fifth charges are intimidating a participant in the legal process. He goes on to be accused of attempting to use a minor under 16 years old in a sexual performance in which she exposes herself to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further, Ellis is again charged with both first-degree rape and sodomy, occurring between Sept. 26, 2018 and Aug. 30, 2023 in these instances. These incidents were against a minor under the age of 12. The ninth and final count is for first-degree sexual abuse during those same dates. Brian Tristan Goforth, charged on six counts, had his final pretrial conference set for September 18 at 9 a.m. Goforth faces counts of first-degree assault, first-degree wanton endangerment, receiving stolen property, and possession of a controlled substance. LONG ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) Two elected officials were denied entry at a Long Island jail being used for immigration detention, then ultimately let in after calling the county executive, according to state Sen. Julia Salazar. Salazar and State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages visited an East Meadow jail Wednesday morning to inspect the facility. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has held 1,400 people at the jail this year, Newsday reported. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salazar said they were unlawfully denied entry despite showing jail personnel the law. New York state law allows members of the legislature to access local correctional facilities at pleasure. Today was the first time in about six years of doing these visits that the jail or prison administration has ever sought to deny me access, Salazar said. Later, Salazar said they were granted access after making a call to County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Blakeman said county officials had been in communication with Salazars office, but had not solidified a date and time for the visit. There was a delay only because they never contacted us and told us when they were coming, Blakeman said. They were not denied access, they were delayed access We welcome their visit We were very happy that they came. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State Blakeman in February announced ICE would have a permanent presence at the East Meadow jail. Based on her conversations inside the jail, Salazar said she suspects ICE detainees are being held at the jail longer than the legal limit of 72 hours. She also said individuals being detained by ICE at the East Meadow jail are not being given adequate access to showers. The county previously determined people detained by ICE dont need showers during the 72-hour window, but will now allow people to shower while at the jail, Blakeman said. What we saw inside we did not observeegregious conditions, Salazar said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salazar said the ICE detention area of the jail did not appear to be crowded. Solages added detainees were in their cells, seemed to be properly fed and nearby a medical facilicity. But she worries about their due process, Solages said. Its heartbreaking to see that Nassau County is being complicit in this, Solages said. Its wrong. Lawmakers surprise visits to ICE detention facilities have drawn significant attention in recent months, including when Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested at a detention center in New Jersey. Barakas case was later dropped. 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. Advertisement 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. Tesla (TSLA) shares remain in focus after its chief executive Elon Musk revealed plans of going all-in on the EV makers artificial intelligence (AI) future in a post on X. The billionaires X posts over the weekend confirmed that hes back to working 7 days on TSLA and now its game on for the companys AI ambitions. More News from Barchart At the time of writing, Tesla stock is down some 25% versus its year-to-date highs. www.barchart.com Why Are Musks Remarks Positive for Tesla Stock? Musks renewed commitment to artificial intelligence is a significant boost to confidence for TSLA shareholders. The chief executives game on declaration signals intensified focus on autonomous driving, robotics, and software, areas with high-margin potential and long-term scalability. Note that AI-focused initiatives could prove a $1 trillion boost to the automakers valuation over time, as per Dan Ives, a senior Wedbush Securities analyst. Additionally, with the billionaire back to working 7 days on the Austin-headquartered Tesla, investors see stronger execution in the second half of 2025. Together, all of this could drive TSLA shares up in the coming months. Upcoming Q2 Earnings to Weigh on TSLA Shares Despite Elon Musks positive remarks, Bank of America analysts are not entirely convinced that Tesla shares will be able to outperform in the near term. The investment firm expects TSLA to report disappointing financials for its Q2 on Wednesday, July 23 as deliveries came in down 14% for the second quarter on July 2. In their research note, BofA analysts agreed that Tesla manufactures all vehicles in the U.S. and with a high proportion of content made in North America, but said the tariff risk, nonetheless, is not insignificant for the electric vehicle maker in 2025. Bank of America currently rates TSLA stock at Neutral with a price objective of $341 indicating potential upside of a tad above 3% from current levels. Wall Street Has a Consensus Hold Rating on Tesla Other Wall Street analysts are even more cautious on Tesla stock at the time of writing. According to Barchart, the consensus rating on TSLA shares currently sits at Hold only with the mean target of about $297 suggesting potential downside of some 10% from here. A Dutch teacher was stabbed while he was with his students at a cultural center for their year-end concert last week, per reports. The 53-year-old man, whose name has not been released in Dutch outlets, was taken to the hospital in serious condition, following the stabbing on Wednesday, July 16, in Alblasserdam, a town in the western Netherlands, the Associated Press, DutchNews and Rijnmond reported, citing Dutch police. Authorities have since arrested three people, whose names have not been released in Dutch media, the outlets reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have been identified by Rijnmond as a 44-year-old man, a 35-year-old man and a 39-year-old man. The outlet identified them as parents. The musical performance was part of a year-end celebration traditional for elementary school children across the country, where the students perform for their parents during the week before summer holidays begin, according to AP. The eighth grade students were in their final year of elementary school, per Rijnmond and AP. While at the center for the musical, three people got into a scuffle, police said, when the victim intervened. One witness said the conflict between the parents was long-standing, the outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scuffle began when the 44-year-old man was approached by two people while in the auditorium at the cultural center. The victim intervened when he was stabbed in the chest, according to the outlet, which reports the alleged attacker was either the 35-year-old or the 39-year-old. The 44-year-old man was promptly arrested. The other two men fled after the stabbing and the 35-year-old man, who was injured in the incident, was arrested at the hospital, per Rinjmond, which cited police accounts. The 39-year-old initially fled from the hospital but was arrested later. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. The victim has been described as a beloved teacher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One parent present at the scene said he is a very nice man who was trying to do the right thing. He has been released from the hospital and is now in recovery, Rijnmond reported. Several of the children witnessed the stabbing and are being provided victim support, police said, according to DutchNews. Read the original article on People Eliotte Heinz has been found dead in the Mississippi River, the La Crosse Police Department wrote in a tragic update in the missing college student's case in Wisconsin. The cause of death is not yet clear. The university shared an "Update from City of La Crosse Police Department on Eliotte Heinz." "It is with sadness that we report, at approximately 10:28 a.m., Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025, the La Crosse Police Department was notified by the Houston County Sheriffs Department that a body had been located," the statement says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In what has been an ongoing proactive effort to locate Eliotte Heinz who had been reported missing on July 20th, 2025, today Eliottes body was recovered in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, MN. La Crosse Police are continuing to investigate and will await the results of an autopsy for an official cause of death. The entire department sends their condolences," the statement says. The police also issued the same statement online. This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search. Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends and all those who knew Eliotte. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte, La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said in the statement. Heinz was last seen in a surveillance video photo released by La Crosse, WI, police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The photo shows the Viterbo University college student walking down the sidewalk, wearing a white shirt and shorts. She appears to be holding a cell phone in that photo. A new report in Daily Mail says that Heinz's cell phone was located. According to Daily Mail, the surveillance photo came from a camera located "outside the Courtyard Marriott Hotel." Heinz's cellphone "was later recovered by her friends close to the hotel," Daily Mail reported, citing a source. Authorities have yet to confirm that detail. According to Daily Mail, the bar where she was that night, Bronco's, is located less than a half mile from the hotel. Fifty minutes passed between the time Heinz left the bar and she was captured on the video, the site reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Eliotte Heinz (06/08/2003), was last seen walking southbound on the 500 Block of Front Street South at approximately 3:22am on July 20th, 2025. Her family, friends and police have made several attempts to locate her with no success," La Crosse police wrote previously. Heinz's disappearance and now death has renewed persistent serial killer theories in the La Crosse area, although authorities have repeatedly debunked those. Related: Many College Students Went Missing in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Is There a Serial Killer? "The La Crosse Police continues to actively search and investigate the whereabouts of Eliotte Heinz. Thank you for the community's support and assistance," police wrote on July 23, before they announced Heinz's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We continue to ask all La Crosse Downtown businesses and residents to please check your properties along with reviewing camera/video footage between the hours of 2am-9am on Sunday July 20th, 2025, for anyone matching the description of Eliotte," police wrote. "Eliotte is 22 years of age, 54, 120lbs, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and jean shorts," La Crosse police wrote. "If you have information as to Eliottes whereabouts or if you have seen her, please call police non-emergency at 608-782-7575. You can also report her whereabouts anonymously at La Crosse Area Crime Stoppers at 608-784-TIPS," police wrote. Related: Emma Jacob Went Missing in Platteville, Wisconsin. Here's What's Known Eliotte Heinz Found Dead in Mississippi But Cause of Death Unclear, University Says first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Paramount and CBS News had agreed to settle a lawsuit he brought against them for way more money than originally reported. Paramount/CBS/60 Minutes have today paid $16 Million Dollars in settlement, and we also anticipate receiving $20 Million Dollars more from the new Owners, in Advertising, PSAs, or similar Programming, for a total of over $36 Million Dollars, Trump wrote. This is another in a long line of VICTORIES over the Fake News Media, who we are holding to account for their widespread fraud and deceit. In May, Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) sent a letter to Shari Redstone, the chair of Paramount Global, raising questions about the lawsuit and its potential influence on a planned merger between Paramount and Skydance Media. A similar letter was sent to Skydance CEO David Ellison on Monday, expressing concerns that a seperate side deal involving Skydance and the Trump administration had been attatched to the P:aramolunt settlement. The mergers approval has for months been caught in Federal Communications Commission purgatory, only seeming to regain momentum following the settlement earlier this month, and CBS News decision last week to ax the late night show of longtime Trump critic Stephen Colbert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People settle lawsuits all the time, but obviously theres a problem when theyre seeking a favor and offering millions of dollars directly to the person who can grant the favor, Warren told Rolling Stone on Wednesday. Its all happening right out in public for people to see, and thats why it is so important to connect the dots and do two things: One is to call it out while the deal is still forming, so that all the parties understand that they may be subject to criminal laws. The second reason to call it out is that we have to speak out to preserve a free and independent press. Trumps public bragging about the size of the settlement with Paramount is one of a string of similar lawsuits against other media companies, law firms, and other entities in retaliation for perceived slights against him or his political agenda. Earlier this week, Trump sued The Wall Street Journal over a report detailing a cryptic birthday letter he allegedly wrote to deceased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. SkyDance and Paramount want to do an $8 billion merger, but it takes the blessing of Donald Trump, so they seem to have found a workaround and have offered to settle what they earlier called a meritless lawsuit a conclusion that pretty much every legal expert had agreed with, Warren explained the corporations apparent attempt to curry favor with the president. So right out in public, they offer to funnel $16 million directly into some future Trump library, in effect a slush fund for Trump to use as he sees fit. Trump is finding every lever he can to misuse his power to kill any speech thats critical of him. Thats true in the media. Its true with universities, and its true with law firms, Warren said. Hes doing two things at once, enriching himself and shutting down criticism against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last Wednesday, Warren and a coalition of Democrats unveiled legislation designated the Presidential Library Anti-Corruption Act. The law would close loopholes allowing Trump and future presidents from laundering potentially corrupt donations through presidential library funding. Several entities from Paramount to the Qatari government have funneled assets into Trumps presidential library in the first months of his term. Funding those libraries needs to wait until the president is no longer in a position to favor certain business interests or felons or anyone else hoping to earn favors from the president. That has to stop, the senator says. No more lawsuit settlements, no more million-dollar plate dinners for felons who want pardons, Warren added. Hinting at the difficulties Democrats have had passing any sort of legislation under the GOP-controlled Congress, the senator called for increased public pressure on elected lawmakers to check the presidents corrupt dealings. The way it stops is when the American people dont say, Im disgusted with Congress, and turn away, but say, Im disgusted, and Im damn well going to make my senators and representatives change the law. Warren has dedicated much of her public career to the fortification of consumer protection laws, a project that has been dealt significant blows under the Trump administration. Warren views the capitulation of corporations, law firms, and even universities to the financial authoritarianism of the president as a clear threat to the public good. The billionaires who run these major media companies may decide that it is in their own financial interests to ease up on criticism of Trump, but if they do so, they forfeit the role that the media has played in our democracy, she said. The media, the corporate CEOs running these media companies owe the American public a frank description of how they make decisions about covering the president of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sure we can all say, Why didnt they do that before? she added. Right now, those companies are under assault, and this president has challenged coverage in a way unlike anything weve ever seen. Theres nothing subtle about it, and for the media company executives to pretend its not happening is deeply worrisome, because it raises the possibility that their plan is to quietly, softly give in. But if the entities the president is targeting are attempting to discreetly pay their way out of their disputes with Trump, the people actually experiencing the consequences of their Faustian bargains are not going quietly. It sunk in that theyre killing off our show, Colbert said on Monday. But they made one mistake, they left me alive. I can finally speak the unvarnished truth to power and say what I really think about Donald Trump starting right now: I dont really care for him. Doesnt seem to have the skill set to be president. Just not a good fit, he joked. When addressing a weekend Truth Social post in which Trump said he hoped he was the reason Colbert had been fired, the host responded with a straightforward: Go fuck yourself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If only CBS and Paramount could muster a similar rigidness of spine. 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. Cincinnati's embattled Muslim imam is asking supporters to proceed in peace and avoid harm. "Please I only wish for peaceful vigils. I do not want anyone to be arrested or harmed on my behalf," Ayman Soliman said via a July 22 Instagram post from one of his attorneys. Soliman, a former chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, was detained by Immigration and Custom Enforcement on July 9, after losing his asylum protection in June. On July 17, a prayer vigil for him devolved into violent confrontations between police and participants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cincinnati immigration attorney Nazly Mamedova, in a post titled "Message from Imam Ayman," said Soliman asked her law firm to share his call for peace in advance of a hearing for him in Cleveland Immigration Court. In response, the law firm asked supporters to honor his wishes by "showing up with the same dignity, love and discipline that he has shown us." Separately, a Cincinnati friend said Soliman was upset by the violence of July 17. "He wishes for everyone to be safe," Ahmed Elkady, who also immigrated from Egypt, said during a press conference that reviewed his case. "Ayman really looks for safety for everyone." This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: What did Imam Soliman think of violence following vigil? Emma Jacob was a 22-year-old woman who went missing in Platteville, WI. Details are scant about her disappearance, but tragic news was delivered by a woman on Facebook, who says she is Jacob's sister. And Lafayette County sheriff's officials confirmed to Men's Journal that Jacob is deceased. On July 22, Sydney Wiltsie wrote on Facebook, "My little sister Emma Jacob has been missing since around 9:30 this morning. Her last pinged location was near the mound, or the 'big M' in Platteville, WI. Her car, phone, keys, and purse were all found there. Police are involved and we ask that everyone in the Platteville area keeps an eye out for her and that she is found safe. Please keep her and our family in your prayers. 22 y.o. Female, roughly 56, 120lbs, dark brown curly hair." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, in an update, she wrote, "Update: She has been found. At this time we ask you please respect our families privacy as we grieve the loss of our daughter, sister, and auntie. Thank you." "My beautiful baby sister and my best friend in the whole world. I love you so much," she wrote on July 23, sharing another photo. That comment thread filled up with people offering their condolences. That hasn't stopped people online from speculating, without evidence, that Jacob's case could be linked to the disappearance of Viterbo college student Eliotte Heinz, who vanished on July 20 after a night in a bar in downtown La Crosse, WI. To be clear, there is no information to tie them together, and they're not even located in the same city. There is no evidence at this point that foul play was even involved in Jacob's death. Heinz was found dead in the Mississippi River on July 23, according to Viterbo. The cause of death is not yet clear; her body was located in the river in Brownsville, MN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lafayette County Sheriff's Department confirmed to Men's Journal that Jacob died, but could not provide additional details on any cause of death, other than saying she was found in "rural Platteville" and that investigators "don't think it's related" to the disappearance of Heinz. Wiltsie limited comments on her post. "I understand everyone wanting to relate this to the other missing girls in Wisconsin but its very insensitive to Sydney and her family so maybe take those conversations private and keep this post strictly for information you may have directly related to Emma or prayers for a safe return. I am sure the police are aware of the other cases and working to connect any pieces," one woman wrote on the comment thread. La Crosse and Platteville are more than 100 miles apart, and there is no known link between the two women, with the exception that they are both 22 and from college towns in the Universities of Wisconsin system. Men's Journal contacted Platteville police on July 23 and asked about the Jacob case. Police said that case is being handled by the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Police Department. However, that police department told Men's Journal to contact the UW-Platteville public relations spokeswoman, who has not yet responded to a request for comment. Related: Many College Students Went Missing in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Is There a Serial Killer? Emma Jacob Went Missing in Platteville, Wisconsin. Here's What's Known first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 When Children's Hospital Los Angeles first told thousands of patients it was shuttering its pediatric gender clinic last month, Jesse Thorn was distraught but confident he could quickly find a new local care team for his kids. But by the time the Center for Transyouth Health and Development officially closed its doors on Tuesday, the father of three was making plans to flee the country. "Theyre targeting whoever they can," Thorn said. "[I'm afraid] the police will show up at my door because I took my child to see their doctor." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until this week, Children's was among the largest and oldest pediatric gender clinics in the United States and one of few providing puberty blockers, hormones and surgical procedures for trans youth on public insurance. The closure of the renowned program signals a wider unraveling in the availability of care across the country, experts said. That includes in former safe havens such as California, New York and Illinois, where state laws protecting trans-specific healthcare are crumbling under mounting legal pressure and bureaucratic arm-twisting by the Trump administration. Read more: 'MAHA moms,' psilocybin therapy, anti-vaxxers: L.A.'s wellness movement's path to the White House In the last week, University of Chicago Medicine and Children's National in D.C. announced they will end or dramatically scale back services for trans youth, following similar moves by Stanford Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Children's Hospital of Orange County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Theres a rapid collapse of the provision of this care in blue states," said Alejandra Caraballo, a civil rights attorney and legal instructor at Harvard. "By end of 2025, most care will effectively be banned." Some parents in L.A. say they fear the Department of Justice will use private medical data subpoenaed from California's largest pediatric safety-net hospital to take their children away from them. "Its absolutely terrifying," said Maxine, the mother of a Children's Hospital patient, who declined to give her last name for fear of attacks on her son. "Im very afraid that the DOJ and this acting Attorney General are going to come after parents and use the female genital mutilation law ... to prosecute parents and separate me from my child," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 9, Atty. Gen. Pam Bondi announced the Department of Justice was subpoenaing patient medical records from more than 20 doctors and clinics, the latest in a cavalcade of legal and technical maneuvers against providers who care for trans youth. Medical professionals and organizations that mutilated children in the service of a warped ideology will be held accountable by this Department of Justice, Bondi said in a news release announcing the move. Children's would not say whether it had been subpoenaed or if it had turned over records responsive to the government's demand. The Justice Department was already investigating pediatric specialists for a litany of alleged crimes, from deceptive trade practices to billing fraud. Federal health agencies have vowed to withhold funding from institutions that continue to provide affirming care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These threats are no longer theoretical, Children's Hospital executives wrote to staff in an internal email announcing the closure June 12. "[They are] threatening our ability to serve the hundreds of thousands of patients who depend on CHLA for lifesaving care." Advocates say gender-affirming care is also lifesaving. They point to statistics contested by the federal government and some experts showing high rates of suicide among trans youth. In June, the decision to shutter the clinic was widely condemned. Advocates said Children's Hospital L.A. had "thrown trans kids under the bus" in disregard of state law. Read more: Children's Hospital Los Angeles halts transgender care under pressure from Trump Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Few are saying that now. "You could see kids with leukemia being cut off their chemo therapy unless these hospitals stop provide care to trans people," Caraballo said. "If one of the biggest childrens hospitals in the country couldn't shoulder that burden, I dont see many others being able to do so." Others agreed. "No matter what California or any other state has done to say, 'We want to protect these kids,' unless they can write checks that equal the amount of money thats being lost, [programs close]," said Dara E. Purvis, a law professor at Temple University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, the Trump administration has painted parents as victims of "radical gender ideology." Some experts warned that as the government tightens the screws on doctors and hospitals, trans teens and their families are likely to seek hormones outside the medical system, including through gray market channels. "Weve seen this with abortion," Caraballo said. "People are going to go about getting it whichever way they can." There are fears that families could face prosecution for continuing to seek medications, similar to charges being filed against mothers who have secured abortion pills for their teenagers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're working with Congress on existing criminal laws related to female genital mutilation to more robustly protect children," Justice Department Chief of Staff Chad Mizelle said during a Federal Trade Commission workshop entitled "The Dangers of 'Gender-Affirming Care' for Minors." "We are using all of the tools at the Department of Justice to address this issue," Mizelle said. For now, dozens of hospitals across California still provide gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy and surgical procedures. But the list changes almost day to day. "Even programs that may have been operating a month ago are not operating now," said Terra Russell-Slavin, chief impact officer at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. "Theres a lot of concern about even being public about offering care because those agencies become targets." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Beverly Hills seeks $400,000 in legal fees from abortion provider blocked from opening With the medical care their children rely on under threat and few promised protections from the state, some families are unsure what the coming months will bring. For one Orange County father, who asked not to be named for fear of retaliation against his trans son, plans for future travel are suddenly in jeopardy. He said only about half of his son's identity documents match his gender, and they've been warned not to try to change others. "He wont be able to leave the country because he can't get a matching passport," the father said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Maxine, the L.A. mom, balancing the banal with the existential is a daily strain. "My kid is just living their life. They want to go to concerts, they want to go shopping for back to school they dont know any of this is happening," the mother said. "You have to experience this intense fear while maintaining a normal household for everybody else." 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. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A Utah man faces up to five years in prison and a fine after he admitted to threatening violence against employees at a D.C.-based Palestinian rights organization. According to court documents from the U.S. Attorneys Office (USAO), 63-year-old Kevin Brent Buchanan began calling the organization and leaving voicemail messages on Oct. 31, 2023. The first call came in just after 3:45 p.m., when Buchanan reportedly left the following message: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont think were not watching you. We know who you are, who your families are. Im glad youre sticking your ugly heads up Palestine. Well, you know what, youre being cataloged. Youre being photographed. Were gonna know who your families are. Were gonna know where you live. Youre gonna be tracked. Youre f D.M.W that means dead man or woman walking. You are the enemy. You are a threat to the national security of the United States, and you are f going to get whats coming to you very, very, very soon, you pieces of Palestinian s Dead person walking Youre gonna die. As Netanyahu wraps Washington visit, progress on a Gaza ceasefire remains murky Just the next day, on Nov. 1, the organization received two additional voicemails from the same phone number, containing similar messages from the day before. In one of the messages, the caller stated, you are a small f minority, and you are dead, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He went on to say several times that the employees were going to die. Another message that day called them stinking piece of s terrorists and that they were marked and dead people walking. Youre all gonna f die because youre enemies of the United States You are f traitors and youre gonna die. And Im gonna love it. So are your families, he went on to say. On Nov. 2, the organization received two more messages again from the same number. The caller later identified as Buchanan said, in part, I hope your families get raped. I hope your wives and children get raped and beheaded. I really do You guys are going to die. You guys are going to die violently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U Street juvenile curfew zone sees some violations, but no major issues Further messages contained similar threats against the employees and their families. The FBI was able to track the phone number to the area of Tooele, Utah, which was then traced to Buchanan. On July 21, 2025, the USAO said Buchanan pleaded guilty to transmitting in interstate commerce a communication containing a threat to injure the person of another. Hes scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 18, where he faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The USAO said he admitted that he intentionally targeted the organization because its staff and members are Palestinian and because they advocate on behalf of Palestinians. Advertisement 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (NewsNation) White House Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is prepared to travel to Qatar for ceasefire negotiations if talks in Europe this week show sufficient progress, according to sources familiar with the matter. Witkoff had previously indicated he would not return to the Middle East until Israel and Hamas were close to reaching a peace agreement. However, sources told NewsNation that the special envoy is ready to fly to Doha if his European meetings advance ceasefire discussions. The development comes as the Gaza conflict approaches 700 days, with a proposal currently on the table that would secure the release of 10 living hostages and 18 dead hostages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire. Hamas has not yet officially responded to the latest proposal presented last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witkoff is traveling to Europe this week to discuss a range of issues, including Gaza and the push for a ceasefire, but they had no details about Middle East stops and did not share where specifically Witkoff would travel to and when. The officials were not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Trump announces Japan will face 15 percent tariff as part of trade agreement State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told NewsNations Elizabeth Vargas Reports she was optimistic about the negotiations during a briefing, saying Secretary of State Marco Rubio sees great potential in the current talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bruce noted that President Donald Trumps team has been working around the clock on the issue. Weve got great people working on this 24/7. It has been a hallmark of the presidents agenda, Bruce said. The negotiations take on added urgency following Sundays deadly incident in Gaza, where nearly 100 Palestinians were reportedly killed after the Israel Defense Forces opened fire during a food distribution. The IDF said Hamas militants were attempting to hijack aid trucks. Cartels turn to home burglaries as immigration crackdowns cut profits Bruce defended Israels actions, saying that Hamas typically loots and weaponizes food aid to control Gazas population and fund weapons purchases. She said the Global Health Foundation has distributed over 80 million meals in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty-five nations called on Israel to end the war Monday, adding to mounting international pressure for a resolution to the conflict. Hamas negotiator Adam Boehler warned that Hamas needs to take the deal now, with some sources suggesting Hamas could respond to the proposal as early as Tuesday night. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has taken another step toward ending its own ability to fight the climate crisis. The agency is considering scrapping a 2009 scientific endangerment finding that confirmed greenhouse gases from the oil and gas industry, and other sources, endangered peoples health, so there was reason to regulate them under the 1970 Clean Air Act. On Monday, June 30, 2025, EPA sent over its Reconsideration of 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards proposal to the Office of Management and Budget, which was originally announced on March 12, 2025, an EPA spokesperson told The Independent, in an email Wednesday. The proposal will be published for public notice and comment once it has completed interagency review and been signed by the Administrator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPA did not respond to The Independents questions regarding the potential impacts of a rollback. But if the 2009 finding is rescinded, it would erase EPA limits on greenhouse gas pollution across industries, adding to dozens of rollbacks in federal climate and environmental policy by the Trump administration. Over the past 15 years, the endangerment finding has helped to reduce climate pollution and protect Americans health, bolstering limits on power plants and emissions standards for trucks and other vehicles. If rolled back, limits on tailpipe emissions would be overturned and automakers could make cars that guzzle more gas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is moving closer to scrapping a landmark ruling that has shaped modern climate policy. The 2009 scientific finding says carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions threaten human health (Getty Images) Climate scientists and activists said tossing the 2009 ruling would throttle the U.S.s ability to prevent the worst outcomes of climate change, and would endanger people around the world in the name of the Trump administrations push for energy dominance. "If you're busily committing a crime, it's smart to try and change the law so that it's not technically a crime any more, author and Third Act founder Bill McKibben said, on the proposal. Big Oil is not content to merely wreck the future, they'd like to alter the past as well." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EPA proposal is still in draft form, sources told The New York Times , so could be changed. But if it is finalized, legal challenges would almost certainly follow although those could take a year, said Dr. Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the California Institute for Water Resources. But, if this ultimately comes to pass, the consequences will be stark: it essentially would halt all federal actions to regulate heat-trapping and climate change-causing greenhouse gases as a pollutant. That would mark a grim milestone, indeed, Swain told The Independent. Dr. Michael E. Mann, the director of the Center for Science, Sustainability, & the Media at the University of Pennsylvania, had warned of an attack on the endangerment finding a year ago. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that his agency would reconsider the endangerment finding earlier this year. The news came during what he called the greatest day of deregulation in the U.S. (Getty Images) The United States, and a small number of petrostates including Russia and Saudi Arabia, now pose a major threat to the planet. The rest of the world will need to decide what to do about that, he told The Independent, in an email Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said that the agency would reconsider the 2009 finding in what he deemed the most consequential day of deregulation in American history. The Trump Administration will not sacrifice national prosperity, energy security, and the freedom of our people for an agenda that throttles our industries, our mobility, and our consumer choice while benefiting adversaries overseas, he said. We will follow the science, the law, and common sense wherever it leads, and we will do so while advancing our commitment towards helping to deliver cleaner, healthier, and safer air, land, and water. Under Zeldin, the EPA announced it would shutter its Office of Research and Development, which provides expertise for environmental policy and regulation, and analyzes the dangers of climate change and pollution. The agency is also expected to shed thousands of employees, including chemists, biologists, and toxicologists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. has produced more greenhouse gas emissions than any country in human history. Countries are failing to cut their greenhouse gas emissions at a fast enough rate, and temperatures around the world are hitting unprecedented highs. As the planet continues to heat up, extreme weather events will become more severe, the threat of famine and plague rockets, and more species face extinction. Jeffrey Epstein pictured behind reporter Robin Leach of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, and Swedish model Cecilia Nord, at Donald Trumps wedding to Marla Maples in New York in December 1993 - DMI/The LIFE Picture Collection/Shutterstock Jeffrey Epstein attended Donald Trumps 1993 New York wedding, it has been revealed, as their past relationship faces renewed scrutiny. Previously unseen black and white photos, published by CNN, have confirmed Epsteins attendance at the US presidents wedding to second wife Marla Maples, an American TV personality and model. In one photo, the disgraced financier is seen walking through the Plaza Hotel. Another shows him grinning in the background of a group photo featuring wedding guests Alison Stern, Robin Leach, Cecilia Nord and Howard Stern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a separate image, also from 1993, Epstein is seen standing with Mr Trump and his two children, Eric and Ivanka Trump, at the opening of the Harley Davidson Cafe in New York. Footage also shows Mr Trump and Epstein, who died in federal custody in 2019, laughing and chatting together before a 1999 Victorias Secret lingerie fashion show in New York. The new images and footage were captured before Epsteins wrongdoing came to light. Their release comes as the US president scrambles to distance himself from Epstein whose relationship dates back to the 1980s claiming he is facing a witch hunt amid mounting pressure for him to order the release of secret Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a brief call with CNN on Tuesday, Mr Trump, asked about the wedding photos, responded, Youve got to be kidding me, before repeatedly calling the news network fake news and hanging up the phone. Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, called the photos nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious. He added: The fact is that the president kicked him out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media. The comments followed a recent decision by the US Justice Department (DoJ) not to release secret files related to the deceased sex trafficker, days after The Wall Street Journal reported that Mr Trump sent Epstein a salacious birthday greeting in 2003 in which he expressed close friendship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In what is shaping up to be the biggest crisis of his presidency, Mr Trumps refusal to release all the information the US government holds on the case has stirred up furious backlash among even some of his most loyal supporters in the Maga movement. Donald Trump and Marla Maples on their wedding day, December 20, 1993 at The Plaza Hotel in New York City - Ron Galella/WireImage Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene, a key Trump ally who has condemned the White House over this issue, said the call volume on Epstein to her offices has almost been 100 per cent. Meanwhile, JD Vance, Mr Trumps vice-president, is reported to be boasting that he knows the contents of the Epstein files to dinner guests. During an appearance on a podcast, comedian Tim Dillon said he had dinner with Mr Vance last week and claimed that the vice-president spoke about the case. Mr Dillon said: [Attorney General Pam] Bondi said we have 10,000 hours of video. I had dinner last week with the vice-president. He [JD Vance] told me that that was commercial pornography, they do not have videos of any powerful person in a compromising position. Thats the party line that theyre going with? If thats the case, why would Pam Bondi call it evidence? Shes not an idiot, Mr Dillon added. Shes the attorney general. Why would she say she has files on her desk if none of these implicated anybody? Mr Trump sought to deflect the heat by baselessly accusing former president Barack Obama of treason for his alleged attempts to undermine Mr Trumps first election victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The witch hunt you should be talking about is that they caught President [Barack] Obama absolutely cold, he said. Whether its right or wrong, its time to go after people. In a rare retort from the former president, a spokesman for Mr Obama called Trumps attack a weak attempt at distraction. Top Justice Department officials have also contacted lawyers representing Ghislaine Maxwell, a longtime associate of Epstein, to address lingering questions about the case. It is not clear how the Justice Department would release any information about an interview with Maxwell, 63, who is serving a 20-year sentence in federal prison after she was convicted of sex trafficking and other crimes in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trumps relationship with Maxwell stretches back decades. He was pictured with Maxwell and her paedophile financier boyfriend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2000, before any wrongdoing was revealed. Donald Trump, his future wife Melania, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell pose together at the Mar-a-Lago club, Palm Beach, Florida, February 12, 2000 - Davidoff Studios/Getty Images In 2020, while Maxwell was awaiting trial on federal sex crimes for her role in Epsteins sex trafficking crimes, Mr Trump said he wished her well. Responding to the DoJs efforts to interview Maxwell, Mr Trump said: Yeah, I dont know about it, but I think its something that would be.. sounds appropriate to do. He continued: I dont really follow that too much. The FBI and the DoJ recently concluded that Epstein did not have a client list and died by suicide in a Manhattan prison cell in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conspiracy theorists, including many Trump voters, believe that Epstein was killed to prevent supposed information about high-profile clients involved with the financier being made public. 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. Imagine an America where the CEO of a tech giant takes home the same salary as a grocery store cashier. Where software engineers, janitors, teachers and hedge fund managers all earn the exact same paycheck. Its a radical idea, and one thats gaining attention thanks to people like Madeline Pendleton, founder of Tunnel Vision, a clothing company where every employee, including Pendleton herself, is paid the same wage. Profits are shared, and theres a five-year plan to distribute ownership equally. Its an especially compelling idea when you consider that most working Americans are struggling to get by, while CEOs were paid 351 times as much as the typical worker in 2020, according to the Economic Policy Institute. But what would happen if this model were scaled up, not just to one business, but to the entire U.S. economy? Find Out: What Salary Single People Need To Live Comfortably in 100 Major US Cities Read Next: 4 Housing Markets That Have Plummeted in Value Over the Past 5 Years The short answer: The results would be complicated, and maybe even chaotic. Chris Motola, a financial analyst with NationalBusinessCapital.com, explains that the impact of every worker in the U.S. drawing the same salary is very different than every worker within a single company drawing the same salary. A socialist company like Tunnel Vision is still competing within a capitalist economy, he said. Blown out to the national level, this technically wouldnt even be socialism, but a strictly enforced compensation regime. Pendletons model thrives partly because it exists within capitalism. Her employees benefit from equitable treatment and profit-sharing, but the business still competes on the open market. When you remove individual compensation differences across the entire workforce, say, by mandating a single national wage, it changes everything. What Happens to Motivation and Performance? One of the biggest challenges in a flat-pay society is motivation. If no matter how hard (or little) you work, you earn the same as everyone else, whats the incentive to go above and beyond? The immediate question is, How would such a society provide extrinsic motivation if it cant offer different levels of financial compensation to workers at the individual level?' Motola said. He proposes a few scenarios. One is to treat the nation like a giant corporation, where GDP gains and sovereign wealth fund profits are distributed as bonuses, meaning everyone is a stockholder. Another is to provide nonfinancial incentives like status, land or flexibility. Mark Epstein, the older brother of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, refuted the White Houses claims that President Trump never visited the disgraced financier at his office. Thats just another blatant lie, the older Epstein said during a Tuesday appearance on CNNs Erin Burnett OutFront. Because he was there. People that worked for Jeffrey in his office, they could testify that they saw Trump in Jeffreys office on numerous occasions, he continued, So for him to say he wasnt there, all I can say is thats just just another lie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later on the show, Epstein accuser Maria Farmer appeared and gave her account of the future presidents visit to the wealthy businessowners office decades prior to his death. Mark Epstein has repeatedly alleged his brother was killed while in prison. A joint memo issued earlier this month from Trumps Justice Department and the FBI concluded there is no evidence to support allegations Epstein was murdered, rather than dying by suicide, and that he did not keep a client list. Every time they say something or do something to try to quash the fact that he was most likely murdered, they just put their foot further down their mouth, Epsteins brother told NewsNation host Chris Cuomo earlier this month, when asked why he doesnt believe the administrations latest explanation. The Trump administration in recent days has been roiled with speculation around its handling of the Epstein files, as calls grow for more transparency in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has repeatedly attempted to deny closeness to Epstein, who was accused of leading a sex trafficking operation involving underage girls. Trumps statements rejecting their relationship was befuddled last week by a Wall Street Journal article that unveiled an alleged correspondence between the two in 2003. The Journal reported a letter, which appears to bear Trumps signature, was typed inside the outline of a naked woman and sent to Epstein. A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret, the final line reads, the Journal reported. In response, the president sued the outlet for defamation and has pressed his supporters to move on from the topic. Advertisement 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. President Donald Trump was told he appears in the Epstein files by his attorney general weeks before her department announced it would not release any more of the documents, according to reports. Department of Justice (DoJ) officials reviewed the files earlier this year and discovered Mr Trumps name appeared multiple times, senior officials told the Wall Street Journal. Pam Bondi, the attorney general, reportedly told Mr Trump during a routine White House briefing in May that he and a number of other high-profile individuals are named in the documents the US government holds on the late paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trumps inclusion in the files was not said to be the focus of the meeting and being named in documents related to the case does not imply wrongdoing. One official told the WSJ that the documents contain hundreds of other names. Sources said Mr Trump was told Department of Justice (DoJ) officials did not plan on releasing more documents because they contain child pornography and personal information about the victims. Donald and Melania Trump with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in Florida in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/Archive Photos In February, Ms Bondi said Epsteins so-called client list was sitting on my desk right now to review however, on July 7, the DoJ published a statement in which it said it did not obtain a list of Epsteins clients. Earlier this month, Mr Trump was asked if Ms Bondi had told him that he was mentioned in the documents. The president told reporters: No, no. Shes given us just a very quick briefing, and in terms of the credibility of the different things that theyve seen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein killed himself in his Manhattan jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex crimes. Ghislaine Maxwell is the only person to have ever been convicted in connection with his crimes. The former British socialite is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after she was convicted in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein recruit and abuse underage girls. Her lawyers have been attempting to appeal her conviction. Maxwell was issued with a subpoena by the House oversight committee on Wednesday to give a deposition from the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, where she is imprisoned, on Aug 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trumps historic friendship with the late paedophile financier has become a political maelstrom for his administration which is working furiously to tilt the news cycle in a different direction. Mr Trump and Epstein at a party at Mar-a-Lago in 1992 - NBC NEWS In a statement shared with The Telegraph, Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, said: The fact is that the president kicked him [Epstein] out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, just like the Obama Russiagate scandal, which President Trump was right about. Last week, Mr Trump said Ms Bondi had not informed him his name was in the files. Judge blocks release of transcripts On Wednesday, a judge blocked the 2019 grand jury transcripts in the Epstein case from being released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president last week ordered Ms Bondi to request the release of the documents, which are a written record of everything that is said during grand jury proceedings. It followed a report in the Wall Street Journal detailing an embarrassing birthday letter Mr Trump allegedly sent to Epstein in 2003, in which he told his former friend they had certain things in common. The president denied sending the card, which imagined a cryptic conversation between the two men ending with: A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret. Enigmas never age, he wrote elsewhere in the card. On Friday, the president filed a $10 billion (7.4 billion) defamation suit against the newspaper, the two reporters who wrote the story and Rupert Murdoch, the newspapers owner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move to release the grand jury testimony was widely seen as an attempt by Mr Trump to quell his Maga base, who were infuriated by the DoJ and FBIs refusal to release the so-called Epstein files. The DoJ cited extensive public interest and transparency to the American public in requesting the documents. Judge Robin L Rosenberg wrote in her denial that the courts hands are tied. She said the Trump administration had not requested the grand jurys findings for use in a judicial proceeding and that district courts are generally not allowed to unseal grand jury testimony except in very rare circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move will be a blow to Mr Trump, who is struggling to rally support amid the fallout over his governments failure to release all documents it holds relating to Epstein. The grand jury transcripts would be just a fraction of the complete files. During Wednesdays press briefing, Karoline Leavitt, Mr Trumps press secretary, declined to comment on whether the government would appeal the judges decision. Days before compelling Maxwell to testify, several Republican politicians on the House oversight committee said they had not discussed doing so with Mr Trump. Mr Trump and Maxwell in 1997 - Alpha Press Some of Mr Trumps biggest allies in Congress broke with the US president over the issue and called for the full release of the Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr Epsteins cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny, James Comer, chairman of the committee, wrote to Maxwell. Mr Comer said the committee is seeking her testimony to inform the consideration of potential legislative solutions to improve federal efforts to combat sex trafficking and reform the use of non-prosecution agreements and/or plea agreements in sex-crime investigations. It came after Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said he would meet with Maxwell to ask her about the Epstein case. David Oscar Markus, Maxwells lawyer, confirmed they were talking to the government and Maxwell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful to President Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case, he said. Trump accuses Obama of treason The Trump administration has been accused by critics of trying to distract from the Epstein furore by accusing Barack Obama of treason. The US president said Mr Obama [tried] to lead a coup after his first presidential win and he had manufactured evidence suggesting that Russia had meddled to help Mr Trump defeat Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential race. Less than an hour before the WSJ released its report, Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, said the DoJ would investigate Mr Obama over allegations he fabricated the claims Moscow interfered in the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked whether she would be referring Mr Obama to the DoJ for criminal implications, the director of national intelligence said: We have referred, and will continue to refer all of these documents to the Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate the criminal implications of this. Pressed on whether this included Mr Obama, she said: Correct. It comes after Mr Obama dismissed the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of the White House. An Obama spokesman denounced Mr Trumps attack as ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. 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. Welcome to the online version of From the Politics Desk, an evening newsletter that brings you the NBC News Politics teams latest reporting and analysis from the White House, Capitol Hill and the campaign trail. Happy Tuesday! In todays edition, our Congress team breaks down how the Jeffrey Epstein saga is freezing up the House of Representatives. And speaking of the House, Steve Kornacki analyzes how mid-decade redistricting by Republicans in a few key states could alter the math of the midterms. Scott Bland House cancels last day of votes before summer break as Epstein consumes Capitol Hill By Scott Wong, Kyle Stewart and Syedah Asghar The GOP-controlled House is cutting short its last workweek before the summer recess because of a fight on Capitol Hill over the release of the governments files on the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House was scheduled to hold votes on Thursday before lawmakers departed for their five-week recess. But Republican leaders informed rank-and-file lawmakers on Tuesday that the final vote of the week would now be a day earlier, on Wednesday afternoon. The shift in schedule occurred because of a standoff on the Rules Committee, which decides how legislation comes to the floor but has been ground to a halt by the Epstein issue. The panel, which is closely aligned with Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., typically passes a rule for legislation on Monday that sets up debate and allows bills to come to the floor for the week. But Democrats had promised Monday to force the committee to take more votes on whether to require the Trump administration to release all remaining files from the Epstein case. To avoid embarrassing votes on Epstein, Republicans decided to recess the committee and not attempt to pass a rule for bills this week. Without a rule, Republicans would be left with nothing to vote on after Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Epstein saga has dominated chatter on Capitol Hill for more than a week as many Trump supporters have clamored for the release of all documents related to the convicted sex offender and the president and his administration sought to downplay the issue. It appeared to be dying down in recent days, but the Trump administration breathed new life into the story Tuesday morning, when the Justice Department announced that Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche will meet with Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell in the coming days. Read more How redistricting could change the fight for the House majority By Steve Kornacki In the coming weeks, Republicans in Texas and Ohio are expected to redraw their states congressional maps. Their intent is transparent: to bolster their partys chances of protecting its super-slim House majority in next years midterm elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As it stands now, there are 220 Republican districts, meaning the party can afford a net loss of no more than two seats in 2026 and still keep the House. In theory, the redistricting effort could shift as many as eight seats from the Democratic to the GOP column, although the ultimate yield will depend on how aggressive the GOP gets and how much the courts and voters will tolerate. It could also be offset by similar measures from Democrats in blue states like California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to do a redraw of his own but faces a far trickier process. Yet even if Republicans do emerge from a fresh round of redistricting with a batch of new, safe seats, it may still be woefully insufficient to keep the House, given the dramatic losses that the party in the White House often endures in midterm elections. It was during the first Trump presidency that the GOP coughed up a net 40 House seats in the 2018 midterms, easily losing control of the chamber. But the structure of the current Republican majority is much different than it was back in 18. Far fewer GOP seats now are in districts that are politically hostile to Trump and a far greater share are in politically safe Trump landslide districts. Nor are there as many marginal GOP incumbents in districts Trump carried only narrowly in the most recent presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If successful, the redistricting push would amount to another big difference from 2018: It would give Republicans far more opportunities to play offense this time around. Read more from Steve here Today's other top stories More Epstein fallout: The White House is facing backlash from press groups after booting The Wall Street Journal from a cohort of media outlets set to cover President Donald Trumps upcoming trip to Scotland. Read more State watch: A Minnesota state senator convicted of burglary for breaking into her estranged stepmothers house plans to resign by early August, her lawyer said Monday. Read more Columbia crackdown: Columbia University has disciplined over 70 students for participating in two student-led protests, a source familiar with the matter said. Read more Trump who? Andrew Cuomos Democratic primary campaign for mayor leaned on the idea that hed protect New York City from Trump. The theme has disappeared from his relaunched general election run. Read more Last minute add: A former Pentagon employee said that Elon Musks xAI was a late addition to the Pentagons set of $200 million AI contracts. Read more Drink up: Coca-Cola will launch a version of its signature drink made with American cane sugar. Read more Thats all From the Politics Desk for now. Todays newsletter was compiled by Scott Bland and Dylan Ebs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have feedback likes or dislikes email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com LOS ANGELES (AP) Erik Menendez has been hospitalized, prompting his attorney to seek his release from prison ahead of an upcoming parole hearing. The 57-year-old had been serving a sentence of life without parole along with his brother Lyle Menendez after being convicted of murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills, California, home in 1989. A judge recently resentenced the brothers to 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible for parole. They will appear in front of the state parole board Aug. 21 and 22. If the board determines they are eligible for parole, Gov. Gavin Newsom must review the decision before they are released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation confirmed Erik Menendez was taken to an outside medical facility Friday and remained there Tuesday in fair condition. His lawyer, Mark Geragos, told TMZ that Menendez was having a serious medical condition and should receive a prison furlough, something the governor granted some inmates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Geragos did not elaborate on the condition, but he said releasing Menendez was the only fair and equitable thing to do" so he had time to prepare for his parole hearing properly. Geragos' office confirmed his comments to TMZ but did not make him available for an interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsoms office and a representative for the family declined to comment. A judge last week ordered Los Angeles prosecutors to explain why Erik and Lyle Menendezs murder convictions should not be reexamined in light of new evidence supporting their claims of sexual abuse by their father. While defense attorneys at the time argued the brothers acted out of self-defense after years of sexual abuse by their father, prosecutors said the brothers killed their parents for a multimillion-dollar inheritance. The order was in response to a habeas corpus petition filed by the Menendez brothers in May 2023 seeking a review of their convictions in a process separate from their resentencing bid. Erik Menendez is seeking to be released from prison over a serious medical condition. According to The Los Angeles Times , Erik is reportedly suffering from severe kidney stones and related complications, which requires extensive treatment. His attorney Mark Geragos told TMZ on Tuesday that he plans to ask California Governor Gavin Newsom to release Erik immediately ahead of the brothers appearance before the parole board in August. Its a serious condition and he needs, I think, to be out so he can focus on the hearing, Geragos said, adding that he thinks releasing Erik early would be the appropriate thing to do. In May, Erik and his brother Lyle Menendez were resentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in a Los Angeles courthouse on Tuesday. Superior Court Judge Michael Jesics decision to resentence the brothers to 50 years to life came after hours of testimony from family members who said the brothers had spent enough time behind bars for the brutal killings of their parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first time, it signaled the possibility of freedom for the brothers, who until then had been serving life sentences without the possibility of parole since their March 1996 conviction for murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills home in 1989. The brothers have since spent more than 35 years in prison. Over the past few years, the case has gained renewed public attention, especially following the release of Netflixs Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story and various documentaries. You Might Also Like The chief constable of Essex Police said he will not resign amid criticism of his forces handling of protests outside a migrant hotel. Ben-Julian Harrington rejected calls from Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, for him to stand down. He told a press conference this afternoon: No, I am not [resigning]. I am not going to do that. This is not about me; this is about the communities of Essex. He added: The issue is not about my resignation. The issue is about an effective police operation that keeps the communities of Epping safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Essex Police admitted overnight that it had escorted pro-migrant protesters to the Bell Hotel in Epping. It had initially denied that it had brought activists from the group Stand Up to Racism to the site amid claims by anti-migrant protesters that the arrival of counter-demonstrators sparked violence on July 17. It backtracked after being shown footage of the protesters being escorted by officers from a nearby station to the hotel. Mr Harrington rejected the suggestion that his officers had given a higher level of protection to pro-migrant protesters. No, I dont accept that, he said. The only protection that officers have given is to those lawful and law-abiding people, whether they are in that accommodation, whether they are the people of Epping or whether they are people who are standing there... with placards and banners wishing to make a very important and legitimate view, whichever your views about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where officers have intervened, that is because there has been disorder... He added: We are not being partial in any way, shape or form. Mr Harrington also dismissed claims made online that the police had driven some of the pro-migrant protesters to the demonstration. He said: There have been some accusations in the media that we drove people to the protest. That is not true. We have not driven anybody to that protest. People made their own way there... we did take people away for their safety and the safety of everyone there. There have been a number of protests outside the Bell Hotel in the last week - Carl Court Mr Farage said footage of police officers escorting pro-migrant protesters to the hotel was absolutely disgraceful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said in a video posted on X before Mr Harringtons press conference: Heads must roll. There is no way the chief constable or the police and crime commissioner in Essex can stay in their posts. This is a disgrace. He posted: There is no way chief constable BJ Harrington can stay in position. There have been a series of protests outside the Bell Hotel after Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker, was charged with sexual assault. The migrant, who denies the charges, is alleged to have attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. 02:39 PM BST That is all for today... Thank you for joining us for todays live blog on the press conference held by Essex Police. 02:30 PM BST Police scanning social media for protest footage Essex Police is scanning social media for protest footage to help with its inquiries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief constable Ben-Julian Harrington said the police were trawling through footage online to help with their investigations and to identify potential offences. He said: We are aware of those live streamers. We are looking at all of the output, and all of the information available to us we are looking at whats on social media to identify threats. He added: If there are people looking to incite we will gather the evidence and take action. 02:20 PM BST Essex Police chief urges politicians to be responsible online Ben-Julian Harrington urged people, including elected politicians, to offer responsible commentary on events in Epping. The chief constable of Essex Police said: It is not for me to silence or to try and mute any legitimate voice, elected or otherwise. That is not the policing space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My job is to make sure people are safe... all I am asking is for responsible reporting, responsible commentary so that we dont make that job more difficult. He added: It is not the polices job to clamp down on elected politicians. Freedom of speech is as important to a protester as it is to government and to any person who wants to have a view. All I am asking is that people are responsible about what they say and they consider the real world consequences. 02:08 PM BST Essex is safe, says chief constable The chief constable of Essex Police attempted to assuage the fears of people concerned about the prospect of more demonstrations outside the hotel in Epping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked what his message was to worried parents, Ben-Julian Harrington said: I say to those parents we will have a robust policing operation. Essex is safe. You will have hundreds of officers on duty. 02:05 PM BST Essex Police did not drive protesters to hotel, says chief constable Essex Police officers did not drive pro-migrant protesters to the Bell Hotel in Epping, Ben-Julian Harrington said. The chief constable told reporters: There has been some accusations in the media that we drove people to the protest. That is not true. We have not driven anybody to that protest. People made their own way there... we did take people away for their safety and the safety of everyone there. 01:58 PM BST I will not resign, says Essex Police chief Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, said he would not resign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told a press conference: No, I am not. I am not going to do that. This is not about me, this is about the communities of Essex. He added: The issue is not about my resignation. The issue is about an effective police operation that keeps the communities of Epping safe... Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, had earlier today called for Mr Harrington resign (see the post below at 12.41). 01:55 PM BST Essex Police chief rejects claim of preferential treatment for pro-migrant protesters Asked if he accepted that his officers had given a higher level of protection to pro-migrant protesters, Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, said: No, I dont accept that. The only protection that officers have given is to those lawful and law-abiding people, whether they are in that accommodation, whether they are the people of Epping or whether they are people who are standing there... with placards and banners wishing to make a very important and legitimate view, whichever your views about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where officers have intervened that is because there has been disorder... He added: We are not being partial in any way, shape or form. 01:49 PM BST Chief: It is not for Essex Police to make a judgement about asylum policy It is not for Essex Police to make a judgement on asylum policy, the forces chief constable said. Ben-Julian Harrington told a press conference: I also want to be really, really clear: It is not for Essex Police to make a judgement about asylum or immigration policy. That is for government. It is for Essex Police and the police more generally to make sure that people can go about their rights and business lawfully. 01:47 PM BST Violence in Epping not tolerable, says Essex Police chief Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, said violent disruption in Epping was not tolerable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: What has been unacceptable has been the people who have come to Epping and committed violence , who have attacked people who work at the hotel, who have attacked officers, who have damaged property and who have caused fear and disruption to the people of Epping. That is not tolerable, it will not be tolerated, and to that end we have made 10 arrests. Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police - Ben Montgomery 01:44 PM BST Essex Police chief: We police according to the law as it is The press conference is now underway. Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, said: We police according to the law as it is, now how people want it to be. He thanked protesters on both sides who had showed up and demonstrated peacefully before criticising those who had caused trouble. 01:41 PM BST Essex Police chief holds press conference Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, will be hosting todays press conference. The press conference should be underway imminently. 01:20 PM BST Slight delay to start of press conference We are just waiting for the representatives of Essex Police to arrive for this afternoons press conference. Hopefully proceedings will be underway shortly. 01:10 PM BST Essex Police: We did not drive counter-protesters to hotel Essex Police has denied claims officers bussed counter-demonstrators to a protest outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Epping last week. Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, made the claim in a video posted on X which showed footage of people getting into a police van. Essex Police said in a statement: There are claims on social media that Essex Police officers bussed protesters to the protest outside the Bell Hotel on Thursday 17 July. This is categorically wrong. Officers did provide a foot cordon around protesters on their way to the protest, where they and others were allowed to exercise their right to protest. Later some people who were clearly at risk of being hurt were also escorted by vehicle away from the area for their safety. To reiterate, we categorically did not drive any counter-protesters to the site on any occasion. Riot police follow a march into the town centre of Epping on July 20 - Justin Tallis/AFP 12:55 PM BST Rayner: We must tackle profound impact of migration The situation in Epping has sent the issue of immigration rising up the political priority list in Westminster. Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, told the Cabinet on Tuesday this week that immigration was having a profound impact on society. Ms Rayner said it was incumbent on the Government to acknowledge the real concerns that people have and to deliver improvements to peoples lives and their communities. Meanwhile, Downing Street refused to say whether Sir Keir Starmer feared another summer of riots after the protests in Epping turned violent last week. You can read the full story here. 12:49 PM BST My wife and I didnt sleep much on Sunday night A resident of Epping, who wished to remain anonymous, said of the protests: When it is happening outside your front door, my wife and I didnt sleep much on Sunday night. It is happening now all over the country. It is getting out of hand. Societal breakdown is a possibility. People wouldnt have an objection to a few immigrants, but it is too many. I have great respect for the police but this is costing the country a lot of money. Police officers stand guard outside the Bell Hotel as demonstrators gather outside on July 20, 2025 - Carl Court/Getty Images Europe 12:41 PM BST Farage calls for Essex Police chief to resign Nigel Farage has called for the resignation of Ben-Julian Harrington, the chief constable of Essex Police, over the forces handling of protests outside a migrant hotel in Epping. The Reform UK leader said footage of police officers escorting pro-migrant protesters to the hotel was absolutely disgraceful. He said in a video posted on X: Heads must roll. There is no way the chief constable or the police and crime commissioner in Essex can stay in their posts. This is a disgrace. He posted: There is no way Chief Constable BJ Harrington can stay in position. 12:35 PM BST Police take pro-migrant protesters to asylum hotel Police have admitted escorting pro-migrant protesters to an asylum hotel at the centre of days of volatile demonstrations. Essex Police initially denied that it had brought activists from the group Stand up to Racism to the Bell Hotel in Epping amid claims by anti-migrant protesters that the arrival of counter-demonstrators sparked the violence on July 17. However, the force backtracked after being shown footage of the protesters being escorted by officers from a nearby station to the hotel. You can read the full story here. 12:33 PM BST Essex Police press conference to start at 1.15pm We are expecting the press conference held by Essex Police to start at 1.15pm. You will be able to watch the event live at the top of this page. Protesters march with a flare and placards away from The Bell Hotel in Epping on July 20 - Justin Tallis/AFP 12:31 PM BST Essex Police set to hold press conference Good afternoon. Essex Police is set to hold a press conference to explain its handling of protests outside a migrant hotel. Senior figures from the force are due to answer questions about the decisions they have taken after days of volatile demonstrations in front of the Bell Hotel in Epping. There have been a series of demonstrations outside the hotel since asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, was charged with sexual assault after an incident earlier this month in which he is alleged to have attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu denied the charge when he appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Thursday. Essex Police said the protests began peacefully but escalated to the point of disorder and criminal damage. 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. Estonia has voiced deep concern over Ukraines enactment of a law rendering its pivotal anti-corruption bodies the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) subordinate to the Prosecutor Generals Office. Source: Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna cited by ERR, as reported by European Pravda Details: Tsahkna highlighted his unease regarding the legislation passed by Ukraine meant to curtail the independence of NABU and SAPO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The fight against corruption and adherence to the rule of law form the bedrock of a democratic, functional state, and they are also central to the EU accession process. Thus, the law enacted by the Council on 22 July, which restricts the autonomy of anti-corruption institutions, is deeply troubling," Tsahkna said. The minister pointed out that this move erodes trust in reforms and casts doubt on the establishment of the rule of law. Tsahkna added that he "conveyed these concerns" to his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha, pledging to maintain active dialogue, "including ahead of the negotiations in Istanbul scheduled for today". "Estonia will continue to stand by Ukraine in its battle against Russian aggression. We will also persist in sharing our reform and European integration expertise with Ukraine, hopeful that this guidance will steer its reforms toward swift EU membership," he concluded. Background: On 23 July, the European Commission expressed deep concern over the adoption of a law that makes the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office dependent on the decisions of the prosecutor general, and has requested an explanation from Kyiv at the highest level. Following the laws adoption, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos issued a strongly worded statement. After speaking with Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, she reiterated her concern over the situation. Members of the European Parliament believe that Kyiv has jeopardised both further aid to Ukraine and its EU accession prospects. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Now that President Donald Trumps so-called big, beautiful bill is the law, youre probably wondering how much youll save on your taxes when you file next year. The Tax Policy Center (TPC), a nonpartisan think tank staffed by the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution, has crunched the numbers. Heres a rundown. Most Read from Fast Company What does the new tax bill do? Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) offers Americans a number of tax benefits by extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), making many of the changes permanent, plus adding some new short- and long-term tax rules. Those changes include certain business and international tax rules, and revenue-raising provisionsincluding the repeal of various energy tax incentives, according to the TPC. What is the average 2026 tax savings from Trumps Big, Beautiful Bill? An analysis from the TPC shows the new law would reduce taxes for Americans by about $2,900 on average in 2026, with some 85% of households receiving a tax cut in 2026. That figure will drop to just 70% in 2030, after some provisions are phased out. But notably, almost 60% of the tax benefits would go to those in the top quintile, or one-fifth of earners, with incomes of $217,000 or more. Its fair to say that higher-income Americans are more likely to see larger tax benefits than lower-income Americans. Overall, about 4% of households would see their taxes go up in 2026; that percentage would increase to about 10% in 2030. How much will each income bracket save on their 2026 taxes? According to the data compiled by the Tax Policy Center, heres how much the average 2026 tax savings will be for each of the five quintiles of income, as well as the top 1% and 0.1%: Bottom 20% ( $0 to $34,600 income range): $150 Second quintile ( $34,601 to $66,800 ): $750 Third quintile ( $66,801 to $119,200 ): $1,780 Fourth quintile ( $119,201 to $217,100 ): $3,460 Top 20% ( $217,101 and higher ): $12,540 Top 1% ( $1,149,000 and higher ): $75,410 Top 0.1% ( $5,184,900 and higher ): $286,440 What are some specific tax benefits included in the new bill? There are a number of new tax write-offs and credits, including: the No Tax on Tips provision (which allows eligible tipped workers to deduct a portion of their income from tips on their federal income taxes), a car loan deduction, a deduction for charitable donations, and a child credit. This post originally appeared at fastcompany.com Subscribe to get the Fast Company newsletter: http://fastcompany.com/newsletters The European Union and China are to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations in Beijing, as many contentious issues dampen the festive mood. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang on Thursday to discuss trade, the war in Ukraine and climate change. China and the EU are each other's second most important trading partners, but the current commercial relationship is "unsustainable" for the bloc, an EU official said ahead of the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year the EU's trade deficit with Beijing grew to more than 300 billion ($352 billion). The imbalances are growing as China exports large quantities to Europe but imports very little and limits access to the Chinese market for European companies. The EU increased tariffs on electric vehicles made in China last year, claiming large-scale subsidies give Chinese manufacturers an unfair advantage. Brussels however is hoping to avoid escalating trade tensions as its remains dependent on China in other areas. EU countries heavily rely on Chinese imports of rare earth elements. In addition, China's support for Russia in its war against Ukraine has long been of concern to the EU. According to EU officials, Costa and von der Leyen plan to insist on an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine and an interruption of direct or indirect aid from China to Russia. Despite the tensions, the EU hopes for cooperation with China on tackling climate change and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. By Kate Abnett BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Union and China are preparing to agree a joint declaration on tackling climate change at a summit in Beijing on Thursday, EU diplomats told Reuters. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa will visit Beijing on Thursday and meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, among other senior officials. The climate declaration is not expected to include new pledges, but instead reaffirm the two sides' commitment to address climate change, despite the EU and China being at odds over other issues including trade disputes and Russia's war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The summit is not expected to yield major agreements or declarations on other issues, said the diplomats, who were granted anonymity to discuss the confidential EU-China summit preparations. Both China and the EU have pledged to deliver new commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, ahead of this year's U.N. COP30 climate summit in November in Brazil. Both missed a February U.N. deadline to submit their new pledges. A joint commitment on global warming by the two major economies would also stand in contrast to the stance of U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, which has pulled the world's biggest economy out of global negotiations on climate change and rolled back U.S. CO2-cutting policies. (Reporting by Kate Abnett; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama ) BEIJING (Reuters) -Chinese and European Union leaders will meet in Beijing on Thursday for a summit marking 50 years of diplomatic ties. Here is a timeline of EU-China trade tensions in recent years. Mar 22, 2021 - The EU sanctions four Chinese officials over alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang, its first significant sanctions on China since the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. China sanctions 10 EU politicians and think tanks in response. May 20, 2021 - The European Parliament halts ratification of a comprehensive investment pact with China following Beijing's sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dec 3, 2021 - China imposes an unannounced embargo on Lithuanian exports, after Vilnius allowed Taiwan to open a de facto embassy. Mar 30, 2023 - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says the EU must "de-risk" from trade and supply chain dependencies on China. Sep 13, 2023 - The EU launches an anti-subsidy probe into Chinese EV exports to assess whether to impose punitive tariffs. Jan 5, 2024 - China opens an anti-dumping investigation into brandy imports from the EU. Apr 9, 2024 - The EU announces an investigation into subsidies received by Chinese suppliers of wind turbines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jun 17, 2024 - China opens an anti-dumping investigation into pork and its by-products from the EU. Aug 21, 2024 - China opens an anti-subsidy probe into dairy imports from the EU. Oct 8, 2024 - China imposes temporary anti-dumping tariffs on EU brandy, hitting brands from Hennessy to Remy Martin. Oct 29, 2024 - The EU approves imposing extra tariffs of up to 35.3% on Chinese-made EVs for five years, but negotiations continue. Jan 20, 2025 - On the day of U.S. President Donald Trump's inauguration, Von der Leyen says the EU should "expand trade and investment ties" with China where possible, in an apparent softening of Brussels' stance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apr 30, 2025 - China lifts sanctions on some EU lawmakers and institutions imposed in 2021. Jun 20, 2025 - The EU bars Chinese companies from participating in public tenders for medical device purchases exceeding five million euros. Jul 4, 2025 - China spares major cognac producers from duties of up to 34.9% on European brandy imports. Jul 6, 2025 - China retaliates with restricting government purchases of medical devices from the EU that exceed 45 million yuan ($6.3 million) in value. Jul 8, 2025 - Von der Leyen accuses China of flooding global markets with overcapacity and enabling Russia's war economy in a fiery speech at the EU Parliament. (Reporting by Xiuhao Chen and Ryan Woo; Editing by Aidan Lewis) European Pravda has learned about the content of talks between European Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos and new Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka regarding the restriction of the powers of Ukraines anti-corruption agencies. Source: article by European Pravda (English translation coming soon) Details: European Pravda has learned that on 22 July, Kos informed Kachka that the European Commission is firm in its conclusions regarding Law 12414: it not only undermines the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), but also contradicts the commitments set out in the Roadmaps that Kyiv and Brussels agreed on in preparation for membership negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kos said the European Union also views the passing of this law as a setback in implementing the seven European Commission recommendations that were a condition for Ukraine's candidate status. So far, the EU has only officially acknowledged a setback in Georgia's candidate reforms. Brussels put a freeze on cooperation with Georgia within the accession process in response to the anti-democratic turn Tbilisi has taken. Marta Kos reminded Kachka of this. She said such actions would have serious consequences for the entire negotiation process regarding Ukraine's accession to the EU, and that some member states have already expressed the opinion that it would have been better not to rush into opening the first cluster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the other EU sources European Pravda spoke to before the law was signed came to the same conclusion: if Volodymyr Zelenskyy signs the law (which he has now done), he is also signing off on the suspension of Ukraine's EU accession process. The screening of the last cluster may be completed, but meaningful membership negotiations will be impossible. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The European Commission is preparing member states for the possibility of resorting to anti-coercion measures in the tariff dispute between the EU and the US, two diplomatic sources told Euronews. Commission representatives briefed member states on Wednesday about the progress of the negotiations with the US, presenting them with a fact sheet outlining the various steps of the decision-making process required to trigger this trade defence instrument, considered the nuclear option. The measures would enable the EU to restrict access to public procurement, licenses, or intellectual property rights for services from a third country. One of the sources said there seemed to be a broad qualified majority between the member states for deploying the anti-coercion instrument in the event of a no-deal scenario. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tonights dinner between Macron and Merz will be decisive to get a qualified majority," the second source said. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will host French President Emmanuel Macron for talks over dinner in Berlin on Wednesday. According to the same source, the Commission is working on retaliatory measures targeting US digital and financial services if no deal is reached by 1 August. Both EU diplomats confirmed to Euronews that the Commission and the US administration were discussing a 15% baseline tariff on EU imports with some exemptions, but said that negotiations were far from over. Countermeasures The EU and the US have been negotiating for several months to resolve their trade dispute. The US currently imposes 50% tariffs on EU steel and aluminium, 25% on cars, and 10% on all other imports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Discussions appeared to be heading toward a baseline US tariff of 10% on EU imports. Strategic sectors such as automobiles and pharma, however, remained points of contention. But on 12 July, US President Donald Trump ramped up pressure on the EU by threatening to impose 30% tariffs as of 1 August if no agreement was reached. To counter the unilateral imposition of tariffs by the US, the EU is preparing countermeasures targeting two lists of US products. The Commissions spokesperson Olof Gill announced on Wednesday that the two lists would be merged, bringing the total value of retaliatory measures to 93 billion worth of US imports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One list has been suspended until 6 August, whilst a second still requires adoption by member states. While our priority is negotiations, we continue in parallel to prepare for all outcomes including potential additional countermeasures, Gill said, adding: To make our countermeasures clearer, simpler, and stronger, we will merge lists one and two into a single list (not entering into effect until 07/08) and submit this to member states for approval. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic was due to have a call with his US counterpart Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Wednesday afternoon, the Commission announced. Intensive technical and political level contact is ongoing, Gill said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to change our negotiation method. We need to be able to retaliate and to put on the table any option that would change the balance of the negotiation, French industry minister Marc Ferracci said in Berlin on Monday. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said back in April that the EU is ready to put pressure on the US by threatening to tariff its services, where it has a trade surplus with the EU, if negotiations in the ongoing trade war break down. Top EU trade negotiator Maros Sefcovic is set to speak with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Wednesday, as Brussels seeks to strike a deal with Washington ahead of the White Houses looming Aug. 1 deadline. Brussels prepared a retaliatory package in case no agreement is reached by next Friday and if tariff threats materialize: The bloc plans to impose 30% tariffs on approximately $117 billion worth of US goods, including bourbon, airplanes, and soybeans, Bloomberg reported. The move would mirror US President Donald Trumps 30% threat against the EU, hitting about one-third of American exports, based on the almost $400 billion worth of US goods shipped to the bloc last year. If no deal is struck, Brussels countermeasures are set to kick in next month. The European Commission is seeking the green light from EU member states to impose import tariffs on goods with a total trade volume of around 95 billion ($111.4 billion) should talks with the United States fail. US President Donald Trump recently announced that he is imposing 30% tariffs on imports from the bloc as of August 1. The EU is still hoping to find a negotiated solution in the dispute with Washington over alleged trade imbalances and threatened tariff hikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite aiming to avoid imposing the counter-tariffs, a spokesman for the commission announced on Wednesday that a set of countermeasures is to be submitted to capitals for approval. The measures include two previously presented and amended list of targeted goods, including industrial and agricultural products. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic was scheduled to talk to US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on the phone, before meeting EU ambassadors in Brussels to discuss the latest developments later on Wednesday. The European Union has warned Israel of action over a worsening starvation crisis in Gaza, where the number of Palestinians who have died from starvation has risen to at least 101. The warning from the EUs foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, came on Tuesday, as the United States said President Donald Trumps special envoy would be travelling to Europe for talks on a ceasefire in Gaza this week. In a post on X, Kallas said that all options remain on the table if Israel doesnt deliver on its pledges to increase humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also said Israels killing of civilians seeking aid in Gaza was indefensible and that she had spoken to Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Saar to recall our understanding on aid flow and made clear that [Israeli military] must stop killing people at distribution points. Earlier this month, following an EU meeting to review the blocs relations with Israel over mounting criticism of its war on Gaza, Kallas said that Israel had agreed to improve the humanitarian situation in the enclave. These included pledges to increase the number of aid trucks, crossing points and routes to distribution points. But aid officials say the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza has not increased despite that agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US, meanwhile, said that Trumps envoy, Steve Witkoff, will be travelling to a European country for talks on a truce, as well as on finalising an aid corridor for Gaza. He may then head to the Middle East for more talks, according to media reports. Strong hope Axios, a US news outlet, reported that Witkoff will be travelling to the Italian city of Rome on Wednesday and will meet with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer and a senior Qatari envoy on Thursday. If sufficient progress is made, Witkoff will travel from Rome to the Qatari capital, Doha, towards the end of the week to secure a deal, the website reported, citing two US and Israeli sources familiar with the details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US State Department told reporters that Witkoff was heading to the region with a strong hope that we will come forward with another ceasefire as well as a humanitarian corridor for aid to flow. Spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to give further details on the corridor. I would suggest that we might have some good news, but, again, as we know, this could be a constantly changing dynamic, she said. Israel cut off all goods from entering the territory in March, but has allowed in a trickle of aid starting in May, mostly through the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) and bypassing the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GHF has set up four distribution points in south and central Gaza, and according to the UN, Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians seeking food aid since the group began its operations in late May. Most of the victims were killed at or near the GHF sites. The killings come as the number of people starving to death in Gaza also rises, with health authorities reporting 101 deaths since the war began, including 80 children. Most of the deaths have come in the last few weeks. On Tuesday alone, the figure was 15, with four children among the victims. Israel denies responsibility for the shortages of food in Gaza, while the GHF has also rejected what it said were false and exaggerated statistics from the UN about the killings at its aid sites. Qatar calls for more pressure The US, Qatar and Egypt have been pushing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas for months, but a breakthrough has so far eluded them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two sides have been discussing via the mediators a US-proposal for a 60-day truce in which Hamas would free more of the Israeli captives it is holding in Gaza, while Israel would release Palestinian prisoners and let in humanitarian aid. During that period, they would also begin negotiations on a permanent end to the war. While there has been some minor progress, officials say that Israel and Hamas remain divided on the extent to which Israeli troops would withdraw after any ceasefire takes place. Qatar has meanwhile called on the US and the international community to put more pressure on Israel. Foreign Ministry official Majed al-Ansari told a conference that the Israeli government does not view Palestinians as human beings and that Israels reckless behaviour, not only in Gaza, but also with its attacks on Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran, has endangered security in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are hopeful [for ceasefire talks], but the parameters remain. If there is no change in the Israeli directive not to have a deal and sabotage any talks, if there is no serious pressure from the international community, particularly the United States, the parameters of the talks will not change, he said. But we are doing right now is trying to push using the momentum was created by another mediation that we were doing, which is the ceasefire between Iran and Israel to make sure that momentum helps us reach a deal between both sides, and hopefully get us to an end to this terrible chapter in the history of our region, he added. The European Commission has expressed deep concern over the adoption of a law that makes the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) dependent on the decisions of the prosecutor general, and has requested an explanation from Kyiv at the highest level. Source: European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier, in a statement obtained by Ukrainska Pravda Details: Mercier stated that the Commission is extremely concerned about the adoption of the draft law, which significantly weakens the powers of the Ukrainian anti-corruption agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that both institutions, NABU and SAPO, play a key role in Ukraines reform agenda and must be independent in order to combat corruption and maintain public trust. The spokesperson added that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen contacted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following the developments, expressing her serious concerns and requesting an explanation from Kyiv. Mercier emphasised that respect for the rule of law and the fight against corruption are core principles of the EU. He noted that as a candidate country, Ukraine is expected to fully comply with these standards and there can be no compromises. Background: Prior to the laws adoption by the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) and its signing by Zelenskyy, Mercier had already voiced the Commissions concern about the situation surrounding NABU and SAPO, noting that at that time the EU had no plans to raise the issue of suspending financial assistance to Ukraine over the actions of the Ukrainian authorities. Following the laws adoption, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos issued a strongly worded statement. After speaking with Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, she reiterated her concern over the situation. Members of the European Parliament believe that Kyiv has jeopardised both further aid to Ukraine and its EU accession prospects. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! (Reuters) -Chinese-made engines are being covertly shipped via front companies to a state-owned drone manufacturer in Russia, labelled as "industrial refrigeration units" to avoid detection in the wake of Western sanctions, according to three European security officials and documents reviewed by Reuters. The shipments have allowed Russian weapons-maker IEMZ Kupol to increase its production of the Garpiya-A1 attack drone, despite the U.S. and E.U. sanctions imposed in October designed to disrupt its supply chain, according to the sources and documents, which included contracts, invoices and customs paperwork. An internal Kupol document, reviewed by Reuters, showed it signed a contract with the Russian defence ministry to produce more than 6,000 Garpiya this year, up from 2,000 in 2024. The document stated that more than 1,500 drones had already been delivered by April. The long-range drone is being deployed to attack civilian and military targets deep within Ukrainian territory, with around 500 being used by Russia per month, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency said in a statement to Reuters. The European security officials asked that neither they nor their organisation be identified due to the sensitivity of the information. They also requested some specific details in the documents be withheld, such as their dates and the cost of contracts. In September, Reuters reported that Kupol was producing the Garpiya using Chinese technology, including L550E engines made by Xiamen Limbach Aviation Engine Co. A month after the Reuters' report, the European Union and the U.S. sanctioned several companies involved in producing the drones, including Xiamen. In the wake of the sanctions, a new Chinese firm called Beijing Xichao International Technology and Trade has started supplying the L550E engines to Kupol, according to invoices, a Kupol internal letter and transportation documents reviewed by Reuters. The increase in production of Garpiya as well as the new intermediaries supplying parts for the drones are reported by Reuters for the first time. The news agency could not determine how Xichao obtained the engines from the maker Xiamen Limbach. Xiamen Limbach did not respond to a request for comment and Reuters was unable to reach Xichao. IEMZ Kupol, Russia's trade and industry ministry and the defence ministry also did not respond to a request for comment. In a statement to Reuters, China's foreign ministry said it was unaware of the export of parts for the Garpiya and it has controlled foreign sales of dual-use goods in line with China's own laws and international obligations. "China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and are not authorized by the U.N. Security Council," the statement said. The European Union was one step away from opening its first negotiating cluster with Ukraine despite Hungary's blockade but the decision, planned for 18 July, never came to fruition. Source: an article by European Pravda (English translation coming soon) Details: European Pravda has learned that a legally unconventional but potentially effective scheme had been developed in Brussels that would enable Budapest's formal veto to be circumvented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the plan which was agreed on by the European Commission, European Council President Antonio Costa, and several member states, primarily Denmark, which currently holds the presidency of the Council of the EU the opening of the negotiating cluster was due to take place on 18 July without a vote, on the sidelines of a meeting of the EU General Affairs Council. The position can be summarised as follows: the EU's founding documents do not require unanimous voting on intermediate technical steps such as the opening of clusters. Therefore, the European Commission has the right to do so on its own initiative, as the EU member states gave it this power when they opened negotiations with Ukraine last year. According to European Pravda, the first high-level discussion of this idea took place in The Hague during the NATO summit, and the final round of talks with the leadership of the European Commission and the European Council took place in Rome on 10 July. It was then that Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos made a statement that she was confident that all chapters in the accession negotiations with Ukraine would be opened. However, even as these agreements were being made, events began to unfold that took the Europeans by surprise. In a flagrant breach of the law, the Ukrainian government rejected the candidate who had been selected to head the Economic Security Bureau in a transparent process with EU backing. The home of Vitalii Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Centre, was searched without a court warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, it became known that Denmark did not put the proposal to open the first negotiating cluster on the agenda of the 18 July meeting. Several of European Pravdas sources maintain that the main obstacles to this were internal European ones. Brussels wanted to avoid any of the key EU states publicly challenging this move. Meanwhile, some member states believed that the decision needed more work and should be postponed until September. Incidentally, former deputy prime minister Olha Stefanishyna acknowledged in her last interview in office that there was indeed a plan to open the negotiations on 18 July, and she placed the responsibility for its failure and, in part, for her resignation on the EU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, this is not backed up by the information available to European Pravda. As of 14 July, when it became known that Zelenskyy had decided to replace the minister responsible for European integration, European Pravda's sources in Brussels said the process was going well and that there was every reason to expect a diplomatic victory, i.e. the opening of the cluster. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) An Evansville man was arrested for the 1993 murder of a man in Gibson County. Timothy Farber, 61, was booked into the Gibson County Jail and charged with murder on July 22. He is being held without bond. Indiana State Police and FBI arrested Farber in connection to the murder of Norman Ellerbrook. Trial underway in Warrick County for 2023 murder According to Indiana State Police, Ellerbrook was murdered on September 2, 1993, at his home near Warrenton. Ellerbrook was found by his roommate at the bottom of the stairs to the basement. An autopsy revealed Ellerbrook died from a blunt force trauma to the head, and he was found with several stab wounds on his body. Ellerbrook was 63 at the time of his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say DNA evidence helped link Farber to Ellerbrooks death. A murder arrest warrant for Farber was filed on Tuesday, and he was arrested without incident by Evansville Police in the area of Fulton Avenue and Maryland Street. This is a developing 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 Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). Voto Latino President and CEO Maria Teresa Kumar joins Morning Joe to discuss a letter signed by 70+ organizations calling for a congressional investigation into DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Kumar raises alarm over ICE raids involving masked officers and reports of mistaken identity and abuse under Noems leadership, urging Congress to act: They may start with immigrants, but they're not going to end there. Former Cleveland Guardians manager Terry Francona on Tuesday schooled older fans, such as President Donald Trump, who want the team to revert to its former name, Indians. Trump stirred up controversy when he wrote that Cleveland should re-adopt the offensive name because Indians are being treated very unfairly. MAKE INDIANS GREAT AGAIN (MIGA). In the same recent Truth Social post, Trump also threatened to sack the Washington Commanders pending stadium deal if they dont return to their longtime Redskins moniker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Francona, who managed Cleveland from 2013 to 2023, was in the room during the name-change discussions. He is now the manager of the Cincinnati Reds. He looked back at Cleveland owner Paul Dolans decision to rebrand in 2021 as a courageous move. I was really proud of him, because I dont think it was real popular with a segment of probably the older fans that kind of, I guess like Trump, Why cant it be like it used to be? Francona told USA Today. And I guess my retort would be, Theres probably a lot of people in this country who dont want it like it used to be. And if youre white, (youre) probably just fine. Thats not how its supposed to work. Like, I didnt even care what they made the name in Cleveland. I really didnt. I just know how I was in on those conversations, and we were trying to be respectful. And for that, I gave those guys a lot of credit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Francona, who guided Cleveland to six playoff appearances and a World Series in 2016, continued his winning message to the newspaper. Not everybodys gonna be happy, he said. Thats never gonna be the case, he added. But I think as long as what youre trying to do is respectful, you can go ahead and let people complain. Team executive Chris Antonetti said on Sunday that the organization was excited about the future thats in front of us as the Guardians. Terry Francona, who spoke out against Trumps campaign to restore the Cleveland Guardians racist old team name, is pictured managing Cleveland against the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023. Jason Miller via Getty Images Related... Relatives of the Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip have appealed in Washington for another agreement on the release of the remaining captives. Former hostage Keith Siegel warned that the Israeli army's military operation in the Gaza Strip is endangering the lives of the remaining hostages. "When I was in captivity, I was held in central Gaza, in Deir al-Balah - exactly where the military has now expanded its operations," said Siegel, who holds both Israeli and US citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was held there with other hostages. I am here to say, without hesitation: This fighting puts the lives of the hostages at risk every single second. Every moment without a deal puts them in greater danger," Siegel said. There are still 50 hostages in the Gaza Strip, of whom at least 20 are said to be alive. Fighters from the Palestinian Islamist organization Hamas and other extremists abducted more than 250 people from Israel to the Gaza Strip during their attack on October 7, 2023. More than 1,200 people were killed in the unprecedented massacre. Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground offensive in Gaza. According to the health authority controlled by Hamas, tens of thousands of people have been killed in the process. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Decades after a musician was shot and killed in Salt Lake City following a performance, police have yet to find the killer. ABC4.com spoke with the victims family in an exclusive interview on the anniversary of the murder. On July 23, 2000, just after 3 a.m., Sai Foisia, 25, of Carson, CA, was found bleeding in the parking lot of the Days Inn motel near 1900 West North Temple in Salt Lake City. Police say Foisia was walking around with multiple gunshot wounds when they arrived. Its like it happened yesterday, Trent Foisia, Sais cousin, told ABC4.com. The Boys of Brownzville Trent says Sai was always more like a brother. The duo grew up together and even started a hip-hop group together, known as Brownzville. The group, based out of Carson, traveled to Utah for a concert. Brownzville, a hip hop group from Carson, CA, performed at the Utah State Fairpark the night of Sai Foisias murder. (Courtesy: Trent Foisia) That was the first time that Sai went out of town for a show, Trent said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Salt Lake City Police Department, the Foisias band had performed at the Fair Grounds the night before. After the concert, a large group followed the band back to their motel to hang out. Trent says he just wanted to relax after the concert, but friends and family, including Sai, wanted an afterparty. Afterwards, everybody was trying to find out where we were going. Although Trent wanted an easy-going night, he says a number of people followed the group back to their hotel. When we got there, there was at least 50 people in the parking lot already, he said. Killed in cold blood According to SLCPDs case synopsis, one member of the group did not feel comfortable with two people who came to the motel. The two were later asked to leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I [didnt] have a good feeling about these dudes, Trent recalled. Honestly, I was just trying to avoid the whole scene. Sai then escorted the unwanted guests out of the room but didnt come back right away. In a Department of Public Safety cold case file, police say Sai left the motel room and had a confrontation with three individuals. A couple hours later, I just heard a lot of screaming, Trent told ABC4.com. He immediately rushed out of his room and found blood on the walls and a crowd behind the hotel. Investigators blocked off the scene after Sai Foisia was found shot at the Days Inn motel on July 23, 2000. (Courtesy//KTVX Archive) Sai Foisia was shot and killed at a motel in Salt Lake City in July of 2000. (Courtesy//KTVX Archive) Police clear the scene of a homicide in Salt Lake City of Sai Foisia in July of 2000. (Courtesy//KTVX Archive) Sai was lying on the ground, unresponsive, Trent remembered. One family member attempted CPR but was unsuccessful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police records show Sai was immediately rushed to LDS Hospital, where he later passed away. Multiple bullet wounds were found in his back. There was 22 of us that went to the show and unfortunately came back with 21, Trent said. Forgiveness and celebrating Sais life While police had an initial suspect, no arrests were ever made, and the case remains unsolved. Trent says he knows the people in the group who Sai was with when he died. While its unclear who killed him, Trent says he doesnt hold anything against those who killed his cousin. I dont have no animosity towards them, Trent said about his cousins killer. Trying to get even just to satisfy our anger I just knew that wasnt the way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grandson of two pastors, Trent says his faith has been instrumental in getting him through the pain. That was a time where I had to really lean on what I was taught growing up, trusting in the Lord, he said. Sai Foisias family remembers his life 25 years after his murder. (Courtesy//DPS) Aunts, uncles, siblings, and cousins gather each year on the anniversary of Sais death to celebrate and remember him. They told ABC4.com, hes remembered as always being the life of the party and a well-known jokester. Trent says everything in Carson reminds him of his cousin, and while he has experienced much healing, the pain still hurts. Sai left behind a wife and three kids. His wife was pregnant with their youngest daughter when he passed. Were he alive today, hed also be a grandfather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We try to be positive, but throughout the night theres going to be a lot of tears shed, Trent said. He was always the life of the party. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. After violent clashes between Druze and Bedouin militias erupted in Syrias southern Suwayda region last week killing over 1,000 people and displacing almost 130,000 others the religious group has been cast into the global spotlight. Despite the violence, one of the three Druze religious leaders, Hekmat Al-Hijri, said in an interview with Euronews that the group was formed by peaceful people who have never attacked anyone in the past on three foundational tenets. The use of reason, non-aggression, and truthfulness" is what Druze anchor themselves with, Al-Hijri explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, throughout their 1,000-year history, the Druze have been no strangers to conflict. Religion of unity Explaining the history of one of the Middle Easts most complex religious groups is no easy feat, even for the insiders. As one Druze religious leader told Euronews, wed have to go back to the time of the Prophets Shuayb and Moses. Founded in Egypt in the early 11th century as an offshoot of Ismaili Islam itself an offshoot of Shia Islam Druze doctrine was reportedly first preached in Cairo in 1017, ending in riots in the Egyptian capital. Much of the foundational ideology was based around the personality of Fatimid leader Al-Hakim, dubbed pejoratively The Mad Caliph by some while revered by others as a divinely chosen supreme leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A controversial figure accused of persecuting Sunni Muslims, as well as Christians and Jews, Al-Hakim disappeared mysteriously in 1021. What followed for the newly founded Druze minority was marked by discrimination and persecution. They were largely driven out of Egypt by Al-Hakims successors and settled in the mountainous regions of the Sham, which encompasses modern-day Syria, Lebanon and contested parts of Israel. FILE: A Druze man reads a holy book outside the Nabi Shuaib shrine during the annual pilgrimage to the site, near the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel, 25 April 2025 - AP Photo Much of Druze dogma remains shrouded in secrecy, but a Druze resident of Suwayda who comes from a family of sheikhs but wanted to remain anonymous for reasons of safety told Euronews that the group follows the religion of Tawhid (unity), which is an intellectual and spiritual faith based on the idea that a persons relationship with God is a spiritual and intellectual one, not dependent on imposed religious rituals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In short, it is a voluntary, not compulsory, faith that is not part of any other religion, including Islam. In the Druze worldview, this means the group is "capable of harmonising with various sects, religions and ethnicities. Since 1043, the Druze religion has been closed to new converts. Todays Druze population numbers just 1 million globally, over two-thirds of whom live in Syria. Struggling for freedom Throughout their millennium-long history, the Druze have frequently formed alliances with various broader powers. During the Crusades, Druze soldiers aided the Ayyubid and later Mamluk forces by resisting Crusader advances at the Lebanese coast. They also maintained a relatively high level of autonomy during centuries of Ottoman rule, even challenging their authority in the 1600s after forming a coalition with Maronite Christians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More recently, when the region was carved up by European powers into the modern nation states whose often porous borders remain indelibly inked onto maps today, Sheikh Al-Hijri notes that the Druze "were among those who helped found the state of Lebanon. FILE: Lebanese rebel leader of the Druze, Kamal Joumblat, poses amidst a group of heavily armed followers at his headquarters in Mouktara, 5 July 1958 - AP Photo In Syrias neighbour, they remain a powerful political force headed by a dynasty of the Jumblatt family, generations of whom have run the Druze-majority Progressive Socialist Party. In Syria, it has been a different story, one stained by extreme marginalisation and repugnant sectarian treatment, contends the sheikh. Not only was the community split when Israel annexed the Druze-majority Golan Heights in the 1967 Six-Day War, but four years later, the al-Assad-led Ba'ath party came to power in what Druze leaders and activists told Euronews was the start of five decades of discrimination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The al-Assad regime marginalised the Druze to such an extent that it was forbidden to dig a water well or build a factory, and they were barred from attaining senior military ranks, Al-Hijri maintains. This said, not everyone paints the relationship between the Druze and Hafez Al-Assad and his recently deposed son, Bashar, as so difficult. Some see the old regime as quashing religious tensions in a country where some 20% of the 24-million population comes from religious minorities. There were even accusations of the al-Assads who themselves derive from another Shia offshoot group, the Alawites giving preferential treatment to non-Sunni groups. As a prominent member of the Druze community in Suwayda put it to Euronews: Druze personalities benefited from the last regime; they made deals with it, they supported the ideas and the actions of the regime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Druze artist and activist Tamara Abu Alwan is adamant that many, if not most, members of the minority were fervently against al-Assad. Personally, Ive been involved in the revolution for 14 years. My father also lost his job because he was an opponent of the regime. We were all in opposition. We were a family that supported each other and extended help to areas outside government control even though it put our lives at risk. When forces under the command of Ahmed Al-Sharaa, a former Islamist militia leader whose nom-de-guerre Al-Jolani derived from the Arabic name for the Golan Heights, Abu Alwan told Euronews, I was so happy. I believed that the 14 years with all the martyrs who shed blood were over. But then it turned out to be only the beginning of something even worse. The plot thickens The new authorities in Damascus have largely been met with a cautious sigh of relief by the international community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Sharaa has met with leaders from Western powers, including the UK, the EU and the US. Donald Trump even called the new president handsome. What followed was the lifting of many crippling sanctions that were imposed on the Assad regime for crimes against the Syrian people. Today, 90% of the population still lives below the poverty line, and the economy hangs by a thread. Although many have lauded al-Sharaa for providing stability to a country ravaged by over a decade of war, Syria has endured multiple eruptions of interethnic violence, notably in early March when Alawite communities were massacred in coastal regions. While al-Sharaa at the time called for calm and promised an independent investigation into claims that government-affiliated forces initiated what one commentator called the orgy of violence, many believe the president was complicit. A Bedouin fighter flashes victory sign as he rides a motorcycle at Mazraa village on the outskirts of Suwayda city, 18 July 2025 - AP Photo They asked (the Alawites) to hand over weapons, the Suwayda resident said during their interview. When the weapons were handed over, and the Syrian coastal area became isolated ... they attacked and committed terrible massacres against humanity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Entire villages were killed and exterminated. Houses and houses were burned. Sheikh Hikmat agreed, adding, They use a local group to stir up strife, and then they carry out mass killings against their opponents. The spiritual leader contends that he foresaw the recent violence months in advance. They spent seven months conducting a systematic media campaign, Sheikh Hikmat recalled, which he said fomented ethnic tensions. There were even weeks when Suwayda occupied more than 25% of the Arab worlds news reports, at a time when there were no overt disputes or clashes, clearly pointing to a premeditated plan against the Druze. Trust in al-Sharaa eroded? In late April, tensions spilt over into violence, leading to almost 100 deaths amongst Druze fighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 30 government fighters were also killed, and the Israeli Defence Forces launched airstrikes, including near the presidential palace. This turned out to be a prelude of what was to come. On 13 July, fighting again broke out in southern Syria, with both Bedouin and Druze militias accusing the other of committing war crimes, including wholesale massacres. The international community quickly condemned the violence, with the EU saying it was appalled, without apportioning blame on one side or the other. However, Syrias newfound and tentative Western supporters welcomed a ceasefire announced by al-Sharaa last Thursday, in which the Syrian leader said it was his priority to protect the Druze. Druze militia members stand guard at a checkpoint a day after clashes between members of the minority Druze sect and pro-government fighters in Suwayda, 29 April 2025 - AP Photo For Tamara Abu Alwan, his words ring hollow. He has lost respect for the Syrian people, she told Euronews. I lost loved ones and friends for the sake of nothing, for the sake of those criminals taking over a regime that they don't deserve. So, I really do not think Ahmed al-Sharaa will last too long. In his address to the nation, al-Sharaa also condemned Syrias neighbours in Israel for launching airstrikes and trying to entangle our people in a war that serves only to fragment our homeland and sow destruction. There was little international support for Israels latest attacks in the heart of Damascus. Yet, stating that 99% of the Druze population were behind him, Al-Hijri leapt to Israels defence. "Israel tried to establish relations with the Damascus regime and was one of the countries that gave it a chance. But when the regime attacked the Druze and ignored multiple warnings, they struck Damascus," Al-Hijri said. "We welcome this action, which could help stop the savage and barbaric campaigns against us. Privately, some Druze whom Euronews spoke to were more reticent about Israels actions. I heard about these attacks in the area of Damascus, one person said. At the same time, we were just trying to escape from the massacres. We were trying to get out of this country. By Nicole Jao, David French and Shariq Khan NEW YORK (Reuters) -California government officials are trying to find a buyer for Valero Energy's Benicia refinery near San Francisco, three sources familiar with the matter said, an unusual effort as the clock ticks down on the company's planned closure of the facility in April. The rare attempt by a state government to broker the sale of privately-owned infrastructure reflects its growing concerns over protecting fuel supplies in the most populous U.S. state and keeping a lid on prices, where California's nearly 28 million drivers already pay among the highest prices for gasoline in the country. California's effort to save the refinery from closing also marks a shift from the focus of government policy in recent years to champion green initiatives and restrict fossil fuel usage, that has led to an often tense relationship between the state and oil companies, including the second-largest U.S. refiner by capacity. The state's primary energy and policy planning agency, the California Energy Commission (CEC), has actively sought buyers for the plant, three sources told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss private deliberations. The CEC declined to say whether it is engaged directly with buyers for the facility but acknowledged it is working to ensure the facility remains open. "CEC is engaging with market players to explore pathways for the continued operation of in-state refineries," the agency said in an emailed statement. Valero, which reports earnings on Thursday, did not respond to comment requests. Earlier this year, Valero announced its intention to cease operations by April 2026 at the 145,000-barrel-per-day San Francisco-area refinery amid worries about California's declining fuel supplies and high gasoline prices. The San Antonio, Texas-based refiner is also reviewing whether to continue operations at the rest of its refineries in California, including the 91,300-bpd Wilmington plant near Los Angeles. This comes after Phillips 66 said last October it will shut its Los Angeles-area refinery due to "market dynamics" and begin in October winding down operations at the 139,000-bpd plant. The two refineries, combined, produce roughly 17% of the state's gasoline supply. Their shutting, alongside other closures and refineries converted to produce renewable fuels, like Phillips 66's Rodeo facility last year, will leave California even more dependent on more expensive fuel imports that would further drive up prices. By Jarrett Renshaw and Gram Slattery WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The White House has tapped a former mining executive to head an office at the National Security Council focused on strengthening supply chains, three sources said, as a pared-down NSC zeroes in on a few of President Donald Trump's most oft-stated priorities. David Copley, who was chosen earlier in the year to serve as the top mining official at the U.S. National Energy Dominance Council, or NEDC, an interagency body chaired by the interior secretary, is now a senior director at the NSC, said the sources, who requested anonymity to discuss non-public personnel moves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shift in roles reflects the White House ramping up its efforts to gain ground against China in a critical minerals arms race that touches a broad swath of global industries. China recently demonstrated its leverage by withholding exports of rare earth magnets, upending global markets and forcing U.S. officials back to the negotiating table, before reversing course. At the NSC, Copley will focus on strengthening U.S. supply chains and boosting U.S. access to the critical minerals that are often vital components of advanced military technology, two of the sources said. A White House official said Copley, who did not respond to a request for comment, will be overseeing the NSC's "international economics" component. Copley's precise title was not immediately clear, nor was it clear if he has formally left the NEDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision to tap a mining expert for a top NSC position offers a window into how national security priorities have shifted under U.S. President Donald Trump. The NSC has been sharply downsized in recent months. Offices overseeing Africa and international organizations have been among those shuttered or downgraded, in line with the administration's skepticism of multilateral institutions. A special forces veteran was recently tapped to head the Latin America office, a move that comes as Trump has openly considered unilateral action against Mexican drug cartels. But Trump's focus on obtaining critical minerals like cobalt and nickel has never waned, and China's near-total control of the critical minerals industry has long rankled the president. In May, Reuters reported that Copley was among a clutch of officials who had been working on plans to pull Greenland deeper into America's sphere of influence, in part to ensure access to the island's vast deposits of rare earths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the sources said Copley's remit is, broadly speaking, "geostrategic affairs." Geostrategy is a field of international relations that focuses in part on the interplay of resource wealth and security, a matter of particular relevance for an administration that has made securing access to foreign resources a central element of its foreign policy. In April, the U.S. and Ukraine signed a sprawling deal to give the United States preferential access to Ukrainian minerals. An economist by training, Copley is an intelligence officer with the U.S. Navy Reserve, and he worked on Iraq-related issues for the State Department during Trump's first term. He previously held roles at minerals producer U.S. Silica. Copley consulted for Boston Consulting Group earlier in his career and served as an intelligence officer with the Defense Intelligence Agency, a component of the U.S. Department of Defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copley until recently had worked in a strategic development role for Denver-based Newmont, the world's largest gold miner by production with a market value of $54 billion. (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw and Gram Slattery; Editing by Chris Reese) Bryan Kohberger, the man who snuck into a home near the University of Idaho and brutally stabbed four students to death will face the victims families in court during his sentencing on Wednesday. Instead of going to trial, 30-year-old Kohberger took a plea deal earlier this month to avoid the death penalty. Though Kohberger admitted to killing Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin on Nov. 13, 2022, he didnt offer additional information on their deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his sentencing today, Kohberger will have the opportunity to address the victims families. Those family members will also be able to give their victim impact statements. Its unclear if Kohberger will decide to speak at the sentencing. Defendants sometimes use such chances to express remorse, ask for mercy, offer explanation, or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing. However, he can still choose to be quiet. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social that he hopes the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some family members of the victims had the same mindset. I had hoped the agreement would include conditions that required the defendant to explain his actions and provide answers to the many questions that still remain, especially where evidence is missing or unclear, Xana Kernodles father, Jeff Kernodle, said in a statement following the guilty plea. Even if Kohberger doesnt speak at the sentencing, there is still a possibility that he could speak out after he is behind bars. There was no stipulation in the plea that says he cant do interviews or write a book. Kohberger is expected to be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. In his plea, he waived the right to appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are so many family members expected to give victim impact statements that the sentencing could go until Thursday, the Associated Press reported. Kohberger is scheduled to be in court at 8 a.m. Wednesday. KIRO 7 News will begin coverage at 7:45 a.m., and you can watch here. This story has been updated with new information. Most of the more than a dozen people arrested during a demonstration on the John A. Roebling Bridge had their felony charges dismissed, with many pleading guilty to misdemeanors in exchange for no jail time. The pleas came during July 23 preliminary hearings in a packed courtroom in Kenton County District Court. The 15 people arrested by Covington police during the July 17 protest are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Hill. Lucas Griffith. Logan Imber. Dylan Bauer. Joseph Murphy. Ameer Alkayali. Johnathan Kennedy. Noah Plake. Kean Babcock. Madeline Fening. Greta Elenbaas. Nicole Volpenhein. Taylor Marshall. Suzanne Bratt. Claire Seid. The 15 were charged with felony rioting and various misdemeanors, including unlawful assembly, failure to disperse, obstructing a highway, obstructing emergency responders, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. The felony carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Seven of those charged pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and prosecutors moved to dismiss their felony counts. They were sentenced to time served for those offenses. Murphy was one of the defendants who pleaded guilty and admitted to shouting insults at the protesters marching across the bridge. In a criminal citation, police said Murphy shouted racial slurs at a "hostile group of protesters" while riding a bicycle on the bridge walkway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fening and Griffith, journalists with CityBeat, were arrested while reporting on the demonstration. Their felony rioting charges were dismissed with prejudice, meaning the charges can't be refiled; however, they have ongoing charges in misdemeanor court. Madeline Fening, reporter with CityBeat, takes paperwork as she prepares to leave the Kenton County District Court during a hearing on July 23. Bratt and Babcock also had their felonies dismissed, but likewise have ongoing misdemeanors. Hill, Imber, Marshall and Alkayali had their cases referred to a grand jury, which will decide whether they face prosecutions for felony rioting in Kenton County Circuit Court. Grand jury proceedings are not open to the public. Judge Ken Easterling found insufficient probable cause for a criminal mischief charge against Hill, whose struggle with a Covington police officer was recorded on video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While defense attorneys attempted to argue that the demonstrators' conduct did not rise to the state's legal definition of a riot, the judge disagreed. "This is a riot," Easterling said. Several officers with the Covington police department listen during proceedings in Kenton County District Court on July 23. More than a dozen people were arrested on the Roebling Bridge July 17 for what officers called a riot. The hearing was to decide which cases would go to the grand jury. Covington police said the arrests came after people "obstructed traffic and created safety concerns for both demonstrators and the public." Officers responded during a rally held in support of Imam Ayman Soliman, an Egyptian immigrant and former Cincinnati Children's chaplain, whom ICE detained July 9. After the rally began in Cincinnati, around 100 people crossed the Roebling Bridge, heading toward Covington shortly after 8 p.m., according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers issued a lawful order to disperse via a loudspeaker and advised the demonstrators gathered on the bridge that failing to comply would result in arrests, the criminal citations state. Multiple other Northern Kentucky law enforcement agencies responded to the bridge after the protest devolved into chaos, making officers fear for their safety, police said in court filings. Covington Police Chief Brian Valenti previously said around 40 to 50 police officers responded and several were treated for minor injuries at St. Elizabeth's Hospital. In videos from the scene, police officers are seen restraining people on the ground and making arrests as dozens of people march across the bridge from Cincinnati. One video shows officer Zachary Stayton striking Hill while trying to arrest him. Organizers said that police responded to the protest with "inappropriate force." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hill, who appeared in court in a dress shirt with his arm in a sling, is accused of trying to disarm an officer of their pepperball launcher, taking a "fighting stance" toward police and resisting arrest by holding onto the bridge's railing. Brandon Hill leaves the Kenton County District Court during a leaving on July 23. Hill, along with 14 others, were arrested on the Roebling Bridge July 17 in what officers called a riot. Hill told The Enquirer he wasn't reaching for Stayton's gun and had no intention to disarm him. Hill said he did not hear orders to disperse, but saw someone to his right getting arrested and went over to make sure they were OK. "Suddenly, I had a gun in my face and he was firing," Hill said of the pepperball launcher. "I wanted to remove myself from the situation." Hill is seen in a cell phone video obtained by The Enquirer making contact with Stayton's pepper ball gun and then heading toward the sidewalk of the bridge. Hill said Stayton fired pepper balls at him as he got off the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video shows Hill holding onto the bridge railing as Stayton tries to place him under arrest. A few seconds later, Stayton begins striking Hill to get him to comply. Hill is then brought to the ground and placed under arrest. Kenton County District Court Judge Ken Easterling presides over the hearing July 23 of 15 people arrested on the Roebling Bridge July 17. "Bridges are bridges and we have a dead officer in Covington," Easterling said of the dangers of police responses on bridges, referencing a 1998 incident in which a Covington police officer died after falling off the bridge. Stayton has been placed on administrative duty while the department investigates his altercation on the bridge with Hill, one of the protesters facing felony charges. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Roebling protest charges: Most felonies dropped, some cases continue NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) Tree experts are warning of a triple threat this summer. Weather conditions, diseases, and insects are all putting stress on Connecticuts trees. News 8 spoke to sales arborist Will Nelson with the Hamden office of Davey Tree Services in New Havens East Rock Park. It took him just a minute to spot a crabapple tree with a fungal infection. Could unused land under I-91 become New Havens next park? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On this leaf here, we have a sign of leaf disease, Nelson said. So, this is a fungal leaf disease, fungal leaf spot. You may be seeing a lot of those on trees this summer due to a dry fall and wet spring. Last season, we had some issues with not enough moisture, said Nelson. Now, were dealing with higher disease pressure. Nelson says that pressure that can take a toll on your trees, so take a good look around your property Definitely look for discolored leaves, some shriveled leaves, leaf spots, he said. New Haven kicks off new park clean-up initiative Experts like Nelson say trees are great at planting other trees. People are not as good. In a forest setting, when trees are left alone, they create soil conditions ideal for staying healthy. When people plant trees, however, they can create conditions that arent as productive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Humans come in, they develop, they change the soil types, they bring in soil, Nelson said. Leaves arent composting on peoples lawns. Plus, planted trees can develop stunted, compacted roots before they get planted. All kinds of insects can take a toll on your trees, too. At least, he says, the Spotted Lanternfly is more of a threat to fruits and vegetables than to shade trees. He recommends having a licensed arborist take a look at your trees every 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 WTNH.com. President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that the purpose of the law dismantling Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure was to curtail Russian influence. However, the law passed and signed on July 22 does not have anything to do with Russian influence. Its clauses deprive anti-corruption agencies of their independence, and there is nothing in the law that targets Russian agents in or outside the agencies. "The clause that the prosecutor general can take cases away from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) is unlikely to have an impact on (Russian agents)," Kateryna Butko, head of the anti-corruption watchdog AutoMaidan, told the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky could also have been referring to the sweeping searches at the NABU and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) that took place on July 21 and targeted two alleged Russian agents. But even that reference is dubious because two alleged Russian moles do not justify the destruction of Ukraine's whole anti-corruption infrastructure, anti-corruption activists say. Moreover, no evidence has so far been presented to prove their guilt, and most of the searches were about unrelated traffic violations from several years ago. The President's Office did not respond to requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: We know how to stand up for our rights Ukrainians protest law threatening anti-corruption institutions Nothing in the law is about Russian influence Zelensky said in his evening address on July 22 that "anti-corruption infrastructure will continue to operate but without Russian influence." "Everything must be cleansed of (Russian influence)," he added. The president doubled down on the claim, proposing new legislation and once again using "Russian influence" as a justification for passing the dubious law. He also said that "there is no explanation for why Russians are still able to obtain the information they need" an apparent reference to alleged leaks from anti-corruption agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is ironic that the bill destroying Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure was backed by both Zelensky's Servant of the People party and lawmakers from the banned pro-Russian Opposition Platform-For Life party. Zelensky provided no proof that such leaks exist. Anti-corruption activists see this statement as manipulative because the law on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) does not contain any clauses on fighting Russian influence. Ukrainian MPs vote for a bill stripping anti-corruption institutions of their independence in Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025. (Andrii Nesterenko / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Instead of fighting Russian influence, the law eliminates the independence of the NABU and SAPO and subordinates them to the prosecutor general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the law, the prosecutor general will supervise anti-corruption prosecutors and will be able to take cases away from the NABU and SAPO. Anastasia Radina, head of parliament's anti-corruption committee from Zelensky's Servant of the People faction, told the Kyiv Independent that it is difficult for her "to understand how specifically provisions of this bill counteract alleged Russian agents in the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office." Sweeping searches Zelensky was also likely referring to the searches and checks conducted at the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office premises by the Prosecutor General's Office, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the State Investigation Bureau on July 21. The searches targeted at least 15 bureau employees, and most of them were related to alleged traffic violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Security Service also conducted checks of NABU and SAPO employees' access to state secrets. One of the NABU employees was charged with high treason for allegedly spying for Russia. The bureau said, however, that no evidence had been presented to prove his guilt. Olena Shcherban, an expert at the Anti-Corruption Action Center (ANTAC), told the Kyiv Independent that ANTAC representatives had attended court hearings related to the case but had seen no evidence so far. Another NABU employee, Ruslan Mahamedrasulov, was charged with collaborating with Russia for allegedly maintaining contacts with Russia and serving as an intermediary in cannabis sales to the Russian republic of Dagestan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The accusations against the two employees [out of 700] - whether true or false - could not be legitimate grounds for eliminating the anti-corruption agencies' independence. Radina said that "some of the evidence, frankly speaking, just seems to not match explanations that the SBU provides." NABU Chief Semen Kryvonos (L) and Chief Anti-Corruption Prosecutor Oleksandr Klymenko (R) speak at a press conference on the results of their agencies work during the first half of 2024, in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Aug. 9, 2024. (Ihor Kuznietsov / Novyny LIVE / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) "For example, the SBU claims that they have uncovered one NABU detective, actually a rather high-profile official, in illicit trade with Russia, and they made public a wiretapping of private phone conversations of this person in question," she added. "However, everyone can go online and just listen to these conversations. They are not about trade with Dagestan. They are about trade with Uzbekistan, which is not Russia." Butko said that the accusations against the two employees - whether true or false - could not be legitimate grounds for eliminating the anti-corruption agencies' independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that, out of the NABU's about 700 employees, only two are suspected by the SBU of being Russian moles, while at the SAPO no one is suspected at all. Butko said that even more Security Service employees have been suspected in the past of collaborating with Russia, but no one is dismantling the security agency because of that. Shcherban sees the sweeping searches as a smokescreen for destroying the anti-corruption infrastructure. "It's a coordinated campaign to discredit Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions," she said. Russian influence on Zelensky's inner circle? Anti-corruption activists say accusations of Russian influence could easily be redirected at Zelensky and his team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is ironic that the bill destroying Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure was backed by both Zelensky's Servant of the People party and lawmakers from the banned pro-Russian Opposition Platform-For Life party remaining in parliament without party affiliation, Shcherban said. Moreover, the bill deals a blow to Ukraine's European integration and thus "benefits the Kremlin, first of all," she said. Shcherban also mentioned that the accusations against the NABU and SAPO ring hollow as long as such controversial officials as Zelensky's Deputy Chief of Staff Oleh Tatarov work at the President's Office. President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak (R) and his controversial deputy Oleh Tatarov (L) in Kyiv on April 12, 2023. (Kaniuka Ruslan / Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images) Tatarov was a top police official under former pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych. Zelensky appointed him as a deputy chief of staff in 2020 in violation of the 2014 lustration law, which bans the appointment of top Yanukovych officials for at least 10 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tatarov has also been investigated for unlawfully persecuting protesters during the pro-Western 2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, which ousted Yanukovych, and publicly lashed out at them while defending the police who beat them. He has not been officially charged. Tatarov has also been accused of sabotaging Western-oriented rule of law reforms. For anti-corruption activists, Tatarov has become a symbol of the President's Office's tolerance for graft, while Zelensky has dismissed accusations against Tatarov as baseless. Tatarov was charged in 2020 with giving a bribe to an official before he joined the President's Office. Prosecutors and courts obstructed the case, and it was eventually closed. Tatarov did not respond to a request for comment. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. By Dan Peleschuk KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is under pressure at home and abroad for stripping the independence of anti-corruption agencies whose work is seen as essential to Kyiv's path to join the European Union. Amendments giving his appointed prosecutor more power over the two investigative bodies have drawn criticism from top EU officials and sparked the country's largest wartime protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is what it means: WHAT ARE UKRAINE'S ANTI-CORRUPTION AGENCIES? The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) were set up after a 2014 revolution toppled a pro-Russian president and set Kyiv on a Western course. They are responsible for independently weeding out high-level graft, a central requirement for Ukraine to receive billions of dollars in Western aid and join the 27-member EU. The agencies have stepped up their work during Russia's full-scale invasion, producing charges against lawmakers, senior government officials and a former deputy head of Zelenskiy's administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, they accused a deputy prime minister of accepting a $345,000 kickback. WHY HAVE THEIR POWERS BEEN CURBED? In a late-night address on Tuesday, Zelenskiy said the agencies needed to be "cleansed" of Russian influence and their work strengthened and sped up. A day earlier, Kyiv's domestic security agency had arrested two NABU officials on suspicion of ties to Russia and conducted sweeping searches into agency employees, a move critics described as excessive. The new measures, which were fast-tracked in large part by Zelenskiy's ruling party, allow the general prosecutor to transfer cases away from the agencies and re-assign prosecutors, several lawmakers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics, including an anti-corruption campaigner charged this month with fraud and evading military service, have alleged the crackdown was a politically motivated response to their work. WHAT WAS THE REACTION? After the vote, the EU's enlargement commissioner said she was "seriously concerned" about the measures, and on Wednesday Germany's foreign minister warned Kyiv against hampering its path to the EU. At home, thousands of Ukrainians rallied in Kyiv just steps away from the site of the 2014 uprising, which itself was sparked by a democratic rollback and threats to Ukraine's European integration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fighting corruption and embracing the West, especially since Moscow's 2022 invasion, are seen as critical to erasing a legacy of Russian rule. Ukrainians are furious at signs of corruption and misrule at a time when tens of thousands of troops have been killed on the front fending off Russia. "My brother didn't die for this kind of future," read a placard at the Kyiv protest. WHAT'S NEXT? On Wednesday, Zelenskiy said he had met with anti-corruption and security officials to hash out a joint plan within two weeks to better combat corruption. Writing on X, he said the officials would aim to "resolve existing contradictions, and eliminate threats". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We all hear what society is saying," he said. "We see what people expect from state institutions." Still, NABU and SAPO said in a joint statement on Wednesday that they wanted their independence restored through legislation. Meanwhile, lawmakers pledged to challenge the amendments while Ukrainians on social media called for continuing public protests. (Reporting by Dan PeleschukEditing by Peter Graff) Extra Butter and its parent company TGS Holdings has named Manne Gonzalez as its new chief operating officer. According to the retailer, Gonzalez will play a pivotal role in driving the continued growth and innovation of both entities. TGS Holdings also owns Nashville-based retailer Rooted as well as other shops including Renarts, Crusoe & Sons and Reed Space. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this new role, TGS noted that Gonzalez will oversee all aspects of operations, strategy, and business development for Extra Butter, and will also be contributing to the growth of Renarts and Rooted. She will be responsible for enhancing brand presence, optimizing retail experiences, and expanding market reach across TGS Holdings diverse portfolio, the company added. Mannes proven track record of leadership, deep understanding of the lifestyle retail sector, and passion for community align perfectly with our values and aspirations. We are confident that her extensive expertise will be instrumental in propelling Extra Butter, Renarts, and Rooted to new heights, said Ankur Amin, co-founder and chief executive officer of TGS Holdings, said in a statement. Having worked in the footwear industry since 1981, Gonzalez has had a distinguished career including pivotal roles at Dr. Jays, Adidas, Packer Shoes, and most recently, Stashed. Nick Amin, co-founder and CFO of TGS Holdings, added that the team has known and admired Gonzalez for a long time. Her passion for our industry and vision for the future deeply resonates with the foundation weve built at Extra Butter, he noted. Her strategic thinking and operational excellence, honed over decades in this industry, will be key as we continue to evolve and deliver unique experiences to our community across all our ventures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Gonzalez, she noted that she has long admired the company for its commitment to innovation, culture, and community. Extra Butter, Renarts, and Rooted have each established themselves as iconic destinations within their respective markets, and I look forward to working with the talented teams to build upon their strong foundations, explore new opportunities, and continue delivering exceptional experiences to our customers worldwide, Gonzalez said. This new appointment comes after Extra Butter expanded its presence internationally for the first time two years ago. In 2023, boutique retailer chose India for its international debut, specifically the Lower Parel retail hub of Mumbai. Best of WWD Sign up for FN's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) A Queens college is at the front line of training the next generation of air traffic controllers. The FAA has enhanced its partnership with Vaughn College in Flushing, hoping to fill critical manpower shortages in the future. More Local News An estimated 71,000 air traffic controllers will be needed over the next 10 years worldwide. Locally, the nation saw the impact of traffic controller shortages and outdated technology, combining to paralyze Newark Liberty International Airport in April. The stresses of working in an air traffic control tower are well-documented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past decade, the FAA has struggled to hire enough controllers to keep pace with retirements. The job remains high-paying and offers great benefits. The average certified controller makes about $193K with overtime, according to the FAA. The enhanced partnership between the FAA and Vaughn College also allows students to complete the final leg of their training in New York without having to relocate to Oklahoma 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 PIX11. (Reuters) -Foreign companies operating in India's booming e-commerce sector face many regulatory and legal challenges from authorities investigating them for alleged non-compliance with Indian laws, moves largely aimed at protecting local businesses. Below are some of the ongoing regulatory cases, which include global giants Amazon and Walmart: ** Walmart's Indian fashion arm Myntra is being investigated for allegedly breaching rules that ban foreign-funded wholesale retailers from selling directly to consumers, India's federal crime fighting agency revealed on July 23, 2025. ** An Indian antitrust investigation in 2024 found Amazon and Flipkart, violated local competition laws by giving preference to select sellers on their shopping websites. The companies deny any wrongdoing. ** Samsung, Xiaomi and other smartphone companies also colluded with Amazon and Flipkart to exclusively launch products on their Indian websites in breach of antitrust laws, the investigation found last year. ** India's financial crime agency has been investigating Amazon and Flipkart separately for alleged breaches of investment rules. In 2024, it raided offices of some sellers operating on Amazon and Flipkart. ** The federal financial crime fighting agency has also privately sought sales data and other documents from smartphone players including Apple and Xiaomi as part of an investigation into Amazon and Flipkart. ** India's state-run product certification agency raided the Delhi warehouses of Amazon and Flipkart in March, seizing items that did not meet quality control standards, as it increased its scrutiny of the two firms. ** India's financial crime agency has asked Flipkart and its founders to explain why they should not face a penalty of $1.35 billion for the alleged violation of foreign investment laws, three sources and an agency official told Reuters in 2021. ** Meanwhile, Indian consumer products distributors have filed an antitrust case against big fast-delivery businesses Zomato, SoftBank-backed Swiggy and Zepto, calling for an investigation into alleged deep discounting practices. ** An investigation by India's antitrust body found Zomato and Swiggy breached competition laws, with their business practices favouring select restaurants listed on their platforms, documents showed. (Reporting by Chandini Monnappa and Hritam Mukherjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Aditya Kalra and Rachna Uppal) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revoked the pilot certification of a man who was arrested for DUI at the Savannah/Hilton Head Airport before takeoff in January. David Allsop, who has since been fired from Southwest Airlines, was removed from the plane before piloting a flight from Savannah to Chicago. David Allsop He was arrested by local authorities and now his case is being handled by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Georgia. No federal charges have officially been filed against him. Advertisement 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 WSAV-TV. Claim: In 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement offered new employees a $100,000 salary on top of a $45,000 signing bonus, far more than what teachers in the United States make. Rating: Rating: Mixture What's True: In July 2025, ICE offered the agency's former employees a five-figure sign-on bonus and a potential salary of around $100,000 to return to immigration enforcement. This offer from the agency exceeded the average salary of a teacher in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What's False: More exactly, the agency offered up to $50,000, not $45,000, as a sign-on bonus, and the salary for an ICE officer in this position ranged from $88,621 to $144,031 as of this writing. The full offered bonus is only available until Aug. 1, 2025, and only to former employees. Salaries for experienced teachers as a more direct comparison to experienced ICE agents returning to work were about on par with the pay offered to ICE's former employees. What's Undetermined: ICE did not immediately return an inquiry as to whether new agents would receive sign-on bonuses and whether those bonuses would match the $45,000 number circulating online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Want to earn $100,000 a year on top of a $45,000 signing bonus? Just apply to be an officer at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to a rumor spreading online in July 2025. Posts on Instagram, Facebook, Reddit and Threads claimed the agency, under President Donald Trump, was offering the hefty salary and/or bonus to new employees an amount, many posts alleged, far exceeding what some teachers in the United States receive. "ICE is offering a $45,000 SIGNING BONUS plus $100,000 starting salary," said one widely circulated Threads post. "I make $55,000 as a teacher in my 8th year with a Masters. It was never true that wE dOn'T hAvE eNoUgH mOnEy to pay teachers more." These posts were somewhat accurate. ICE indeed offered a large sign-on bonus and salary to potential hires in July 2025, but only to former officers, not new employees. Furthermore, while some of these former workers hired by ICE could potentially receive a $100,000 salary, the actual salary ranged more widely and came with a sign-on bonus of up to $50,000. The full bonus, however, was available only until Aug. 1, 2025, and the agency listed the positions as temporary, with a possible chance of extension. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the listed salaries for returning ICE agents appeared to far exceed an average American teacher's salary, they were comparable to the most-experienced teachers, on average. The salary for new, not returning, ICE deportation officers started at $49,739 and went up to $89,528 a year as of July 2025, comparable to what a teacher might receive. ICE did not immediately return an emailed inquiry about whether the agency provides sign-on bonuses to new agents. Thus, we rate this claim a mixture of truth, falsehood and unknown information. ICE's attempt to entice former officers back to work On July 18, multiple news outlets, including The New York Times, reported that ICE was offering financial incentives to bring back former employees and retirees. According to these outlets, numerous former agents received an email asking them to return to the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These reports matched with an undated website (archived) published by ICE appealing to former agents and calling on them to "RETURN TO MISSION." "You served the United States of America with distinction and honor. Now, your country is calling upon you to serve once more," the website read. Below the appeal was a request to "CHOOSE YOUR MISSION," alongside job openings for "Deportation Officer" and "Criminal Investigator." The job opening's page, as of this writing, listed the available salary for returning deportation officers as $88,621 to $144,031 per year, with opportunities in 26 different locations (archived). The posting for criminal investigators offered $105,383 to $171,268 per year, with options in 30 locations (archived). Both pages cautioned that only applicants who retired on or before the opening date of the announcement could apply, as long as they retired no more than five years before the hiring announcement. The pages listed the opening date for the open positions as July 17, 2025, with a closing date of Aug. 18, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Term appointments are for a period of more than 1 year but not more than 4 years. ICE may extend appointments made for more than 1 year but less than 4 years up to the 4-year limit in increments determined by the mission need," the advertising website said (emphasis theirs). While the pages did not list any sign-on bonus, a LinkedIn post by Robert Hammer, deputy executive associate director at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, advertised (archived) "up to a $50k signing bonus ON TOP OF rehired annuitant pay (pension + paycheck)" to retired ICE workers. In other words, the bonus would come on top of the listed salary and regular payments from the government in the form of a pension for retired employees, even though the ICE agents would technically be coming out of retirement. "Submit your application by Aug 1 to be eligible for the full recruitment incentives package," the post said (archived). Trump's 2025 budget bill also allocated funding ICE could use for sign-on, retention and performance bonuses. Newsweek reported (archived) on July 14 that the bill, which was signed into law July 4, included funding for up to $45,000 in sign-on bonuses per agent hired, but the bill's text did not appear to include this language (see Section 100052). Newsweek's reporter on the story did not immediately return an inquiry about where the $45,000 number came from. Comparing ICE pay to teachers' salaries According to a 2025 review by the National Education Association, the country's largest teachers' union, on average, teachers received an annual salary of $72,030 in the 2023-24 school year, with a projected increase to $74,177 in the 2024-25 school year (see Page 5 of this report). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As such, the salaries for returning ICE agents far outpace average salaries for teachers. However, a more direct comparison would be the average maximum salary for a teacher, as many retired ICE employees would presumably have already reached the top of the pay scale before retiring. According to the NEA, the top of the teacher pay scale was, on average, $84,272 in the 2023-24 school year. While that's closer to the returning ICE worker salary, it still did not match the amounts offered to ICE retirees and "reaching that level usually requires a PhD or 15 to 30 graduate credit hours beyond a master's degree," the NEA noted. Comparing starting ICE officer salaries with those of the average teacher starting out also showed that early-career ICE workers received a bit more money than teachers: The average starting salary for a teacher, according to the NEA, was $46,526 in the 2023-24 school year, and as of July 2025, ICE officials started out at $49,739 a year and topped out at $89,528 a year. However, it is also worth noting that different states offered a wide range of salaries for teachers. For example, California had the highest average starting teacher salary at $58,409, and the highest average overall at $101,084, during the 2023-24 school year. In contrast, Mississippi had the lowest average overall salary among the states, at $53,704. ICE agents also receive pay adjustments based on the cost of living in their location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the NEA, 20.7% of school districts also offered a maximum teacher salary of over $100,000 in 2023 to 2024. In sum Within a narrow window of time, returning ICE agents could receive a salary between about $89,000 to $144,000 under the second Trump administration, alongside a sign-on bonus of up to $50,000. While that exceeded the amount the average teacher made in the 2023-24 school year, it was largely comparable to the salary of an experienced teacher. Starting teacher salaries, on average, also appeared similar to those of early-career ICE agents. Sources: Arrington, Jodey. "Text - H.R.1 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): One Big Beautiful Bill Act." Congress.gov, 2025, www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text. Accessed 21 July 2025. "Criminal Investigator (Special Agent) (Reemployed Annuitant & CTAP/ICTAP/RPL) (Term Appointment)." USAJOBS, 17 July 2025, www.usajobs.gov/job/841046800. Accessed 21 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demirjian, Karoun. "To Staff Trump's Immigration Crackdown, ICE Entices Its Retirees." The New York Times, 18 July 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/07/18/us/ice-recruit-retiree.html. Accessed 21 July 2025. "Deportation Officer." USAJOBS, www.usajobs.gov/job/838081000. Accessed 21 July 2025. "Deportation Officer (Reemployed Annuitant & CTAP/ICTAP/RPL) (Term Appointment)." USAJOBS, 17 July 2025, www.usajobs.gov/job/841048200. Accessed 21 July 2025. Hammer, Robert. "RETIRED ICE EMPLOYEES." Linkedin.com, 18 July 2025, www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7351966376225353730/. Accessed 21 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Law Enforcement Officer | Salaries & Wages." U.S. Office of Personnel Management, www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2025/law-enforcement-officer/. National Education Association. "Educator Pay and Student Spending: How Does Your State Rank? | NEA." Www.nea.org, 18 Apr. 2024, www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank. Accessed 21 July 2025. ---. Rankings of the States 2024 and Estimates of School Statistics 2025 NEA Research. Apr. 2025, www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2025-04/2025_rankings_and_estimates_report.pdf. Accessed 21 July 2025. "Return to Mission." Ice.gov, www.ice.gov/return. Accessed 21 July 2025. Sandiford, Michele. "ICE Offers up to $50,000 Signing Bonus for Retired Employees to Return to the Job." Federal News Network - Helping Feds Meet Their Mission., Federal News Network, 21 July 2025, federalnewsnetwork.com/federal-newscast/2025/07/ice-is-offering-up-to-50000-signing-bonus-for-retired-employees-to-return-to-the-job/. Accessed 21 July 2025. Vogt, Adrienne, et al. "July 18, 2025: Donald Trump Presidency News." CNN, 18 July 2025, www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-administration-epstein-files-news-07-18-25#cmd958k1z00053b6tbgny3355. Accessed 21 July 2025. Walker, Tim. "The State of Teacher Pay | NEA." Nea.org, 29 Apr. 2025, www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/state-teacher-pay. Accessed 21 July 2025. Claim: Pope Leo XIV announced 15 massive reforms "set to change the Catholic Church forever" in July 2025. Rating: Rating: False A rumor that circulated online in July 2025 claimed Pope Leo XIV had announced 15 major reforms for the Roman Catholic Church. For example, on July 19, 2025, a Facebook user posted (archived) about the rumor and said, "Today Pope Leo announced '15 reforms that will shock you!' Full story on YouTube. To me this is a breath of fresh air about to flow through Mother Church, and I welcome it with open arms." (Matt Lynch on Facebook) Other social media users (archived) shared the same claim, including links to YouTube videos promoting the rumor. One such video had more than 160,000 views, as of this writing. According to the story in the videos, the pope preached to Catholics about "the urgent need for sacred silence and true reverence, why the Eucharist must return to the center of Catholic life, the future of priestly formation, catechesis, and moral clarity," and "why the Church can no longer remain silent on cultural decay" among other talking points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snopes readers also searched the website to try to determine whether there was any truth to the story. However, this rumor was false. Searches of Bing, DuckDuckGo, Google and Yahoo found no credible news media outlets reporting on the pope's alleged reforms. Prominent news media outlets would have widely reported this rumor if true. There were some reports of the pope's plans for reform from Catholic news outlets. According to The Tablet, which describes itself as a Catholic weekly journal, the pope planned to announce reforms for the Roman Curia, the administrative body that assists the pope. In addition, Vatican News, "the news portal of the Holy See," reported the pope discussed reform for the monks of the Vallumbrosan Congregation of the Order of Saint Benedict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, neither of these credible reports of reform was mentioned in the aforementioned videos. Rather, the person or people who authored the story fabricated the entire tale as one of dozens of false stories about Pope Leo XIV generated using artificial intelligence. A variety of Catholic-themed YouTube channels have shared similar videos, all of them labeled as featuring "altered or synthetic content" with "sound or visuals were significantly edited or digitally generated." Further, another video featured similar claims about reform stemming from Bishop Robert Barron rather than Pope Leo XIV. The channel that posted the Barron video similarly had dozens of AI-generated videos about the bishop. Snopes reached out to the Vatican for comment on these videos and will update this article if we receive a response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the YouTube videos listed the alleged reforms in its description, which read: Reform 1: Silence and Sacred Awe Restored Reform 2: Return of the Tabernacle and Eucharistic Centrality Reform 3: Liturgical Beauty and Reverence Revived Reform 4: Purification of Clergy and Leadership Reform 5: Moral Clarity in a World of Confusion Reform 6: Reclaiming Catholic Identity with Boldness Reform 7: Rebuilding the Walls of Catechesis Reform 8: Restoring the Dignity of the Priesthood Reform 9: Holiness Over Influence Reform 10: Financial Transparency and Stewardship Reform 11: Global Synodality with Spiritual Authority Reform 12: Confronting Secularism Without Fear Reform 13: Evangelization as the Church's Heartbeat Reform 14: Rediscovering the Power of Redemptive Suffering Reform 15: Crying Out for the Holy Spirit Anew For further reading, Snopes previously reported on a story claiming Pope Leo XIV took a tumble down a set of stairs and a rumor that he said U.S. Vice President JD Vance "flip-flops faster than pages in the Bible." Sources: Pope Encourages Monks to 'Reform, Renew, and Simplify' the Christian Life - Vatican News. 28 Jun. 2025, https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/pope-vallumbrosans-reform-renew-simplify-christian-life.html. "Pope Leo XIV to Move Forward with Vatican Reforms, Says Cardinal." The Tablet, https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/pope-leo-xiv-to-move-forward-with-vatican-reforms-says-cardinal/. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025. The Roman Curia. https://www.vatican.va/content/romancuria/en.html. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025. Claim: Director of U.S. National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced declassified documents indicating former U.S. president Barack Obama authorized an assassination attempt on U.S. President Donald Trump just before he first assumed office in 2016. Rating: Rating: False In July 2025, a claim circulated online that U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced declassified documents indicating former U.S. president Barack Obama authorized an assassination attempt on U.S. President Donald Trump just before he assumed office the first time in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One post (archived) received more than 1.7 million views on X, as of this writing, and copy-pasted versions of the text (copypasta) also spread to Facebook (archived) and other various webpages. Dozens of users in the comments appeared to believe the claim, while others questioned its veracity. The post claimed: Gabbard said declassified documents (set to be released) revealed an assassination attempt that Obama authorized. A task force made up of senior intelligence officials and military advisers planned the crime in the last 30 days of Obama's presidency. The explicit goal was to prevent Trump from assuming office; one document read, "The threat Trump poses to institutional stability cannot be overstated. Removal, if necessary, is justified." An anonymous whistleblower within the "National Security Command Center" thwarted the plans. Gabbard held an emergency intelligence briefing in which she said, "Operation Silence was not just surveillance. It was an organized, multi-agency plot to eliminate the President-elect." BREAKING: DNI Tulsi Gabbard Confirms Former President Obama Authorized Assassination Attempt on Trump By Jonathan Gregory Washington, D.C. July 21, 2025 In what may become the most explosive revelation in U.S. political history, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi pic.twitter.com/tPQTW6YpG6 Barron Trump (@BarronTNews_) July 21, 2025 The rumor was entirely false. The X account that posted the claim above is not a reputable news source; a label under the account's handle indicated it is a "fan account." No credible news source reported on this information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further, the "National Security Command Center" does not exist as a federal agency, although the National Security Operations Center does. We reached out to Gabbard's office, the White House and the National Security Agency (NSA) seeking comment, and will update this story if we receive a response. If the rumor were true, all major news outlets would likely be reporting on the news, and a recording or transcript of the alleged "emergency intelligence briefing" Gabbard held would likely be publicly available. Neither is true. A DuckDuckGo search of the keywords "Obama authorized Trump assassination" (archived) either revealed results related to the above claim from untrustworthy sources or results regarding a separate incident that apparently inspired the above claim. (DuckDuckGo) The related (true) story is that on July 18, 2025, Gabbard's office released a statement in which it claimed to reveal "overwhelming evidence" that Obama orchestrated a "years-long coup" against Trump that involved the Obama administration falsely accusing Trump of colluding with Russia to influence the 2016 presidential election. Sources: 'BREAKING: DNI Tulsi Gabbard Confirms Former President Obama Authorized Assassination Attempt on Trump - LRC Blog'. LewRockwell, https://www.lewrockwell.com/lrc-blog/breaking-dni-tulsi-gabbard-confirms-former-president-obama-authorized-assassination-attempt-on-trump/. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. 'Trump Rehashes Years-Old Grievances on Russia Investigation after New Intelligence Report'. AP News, 22 Jul. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/trump-gabbard-russia-2016-election-interference-895e863c27e5853f10c819121d73df8a. (Reuters) -Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba denied talk on Wednesday that he had decided to quit after a source and media reports said he plans to step down following a bruising upper house election defeat. Some in his own party are questioning his leadership and the opposition is weighing a no-confidence motion. Ishiba's resignation as prime minister would trigger a leadership race in his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), with the winner facing a parliament vote to become prime minister of the world's fourth-largest economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the LDP lawmakers who might throw their hats in the ring: SANAE TAKAICHI, 64: A Yomiuri newspaper poll following Sunday's election showed Takaichi as the top pick for prime minister in an LDP-led government, with 26% of votes, followed by farm minister Shinjiro Koizumi, at 22%. Representing the party's right wing, she lost to Ishiba in the September leadership race in a run-off vote. Takaichi previously served as Japan's economic security minister, internal affairs minister and the LDP's policy council chief. She is known for her conservative views, such as revising the pacifist constitution, and is a regular visitor to the Yasukuni war shrine, viewed by some Asian neighbours as a symbol of past militarism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also opposes allowing women to retain their maiden names, saying it would undermine tradition. Takaichi courted controversy in 2016 when she suggested the government could revoke broadcasting licences of media companies deemed to be politically biased. SHINJIRO KOIZUMI, 44: The son of a former prime minister and heir to a political dynasty with a hand in governing Japan for more than a century, he would become its youngest prime minister in eight decades if he succeeded Ishiba. Koizumi also ran in the last party leadership race, presenting himself as a reformer able to restore public trust in a party mired in scandal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike Takaichi, who left government after her defeat in that contest, the Columbia University-educated Koizumi stayed close to Ishiba as his agriculture minister, overseeing the release of rice stockpiles in a bid to curb soaring prices of the staple. TOSHIMITSU MOTEGI, 69: A former foreign minister, Motegi has a reputation as a tough negotiator and handled talks with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer when President Donald Trump was last in office. He has also served as trade minister, economy minister and the party's secretary general. He studied at the Harvard Kennedy School and worked at the Yomiuri newspaper and consulting firm McKinsey before entering politics in 1993. Other potential candidates include Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, 64, and Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato, 69. (Reporting by Tim Kelly and Satoshi Sugiyama; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) The Pennsylvania Capitol (Peter Hall/Capital-Star) The Pennsylvania House of Representatives recently passed a bill, House Bill 1697, that would finally create a state False Claims Act (FCA). This legislation, if enacted, will give Pennsylvania the tools it needs to hold fraudsters accountable and recover millions in taxpayer dollars wrongly spent. After receiving substantial bipartisan support in the House, the bill moves to the Senate. The legislation will protect public funds, empower whistleblowers, and bring Pennsylvania in line with the rest of the country. Pennsylvania is the largest state without this basic anti-fraud tool Pennsylvania remains the largest state in the nation without a false claims law. This is not just a statistical quirkits a glaring vulnerability in the commonwealths fight against fraud. According to The Anti-Fraud Coalition, this absence puts Pennsylvania at a significant disadvantage in recovering fraudulent payments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent legislative memo noted, Pennsylvania is missing out on a golden opportunity to recover millions of dollars in taxpayer money from people who cheat state programs. Rep. Frank Burns (D-Cambria), the bills sponsor, emphasized that the bill targets large-scale fraud to hold businesses accountable and recover millions in taxpayer money that was wrongly spent. What other states are recovering and why Pennsylvania cant Since the federal False Claims Act was strengthened in 1986, it has helped the federal government recover over $78 billion in fraud-related judgments and settlements. In fiscal year 2024 alone, the U.S. Department of Justice obtained $2.9 billion in recoveries from civil fraud cases. States with their own FCA statutes can join these federal actions or pursue standalone cases where state funds are at risk. New York, for example, has recovered more than $4 billion under its FCA since 2011. California has secured over $1.3 billion since 2000. Even smaller states like Massachusetts and Illinois recover tens of millions annually. Pennsylvania, by contrast, forfeits the opportunity to independently pursue fraud against state programs especially in non-Medicaid areas like education, transportation, infrastructure and public procurement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Pennsylvanias Medicaid Fraud Control Section recovered $11.3 million through criminal prosecutions alone. That figure is commendable but represents only a fraction of the fraud likely occurring across the states $42 billion Medicaid program. According to The Center for Children and Families, Medicaid Fraud Control Units nationally recover $3.46 for every $1 spent on the effort. In Pennsylvania, that unit is hamstrung in what they can pursue without a state FCA. A Pennsylvania FCA weould deliver immediate benefits A state-level False Claims Act would immediately empower the attorney general and other agencies to pursue fraud far more effectively. According to the Anti-Fraud Coalition, the law would: Unlock an enhanced federal share of recoveries in joint Medicaid fraud actions, ensuring Pennsylvania keeps more of what its owed. Enable direct enforcement against fraud in all state-funded programs, not just Medicaid. Protect whistleblowers who are brave citizens who risk their livelihoods to expose waste and corruption which lead to higher taxes. Incentivize whistleblower lawsuits which have historically been responsible for the majority of FCA recoveries. These reforms work. The federal government and states with FCAs know it. Thats why they continue to strengthen their laws, not weaken them. Whistleblowers are our first line of defense One of the most important aspects of the bill is the protection and incentivization of whistleblowers. Most fraud is invisible to the public. It hides in billing systems, contract line items and behind NDAs. The people who see it are often employees, vendors, or insiders. Giving them legal protections and a share in any recovery not only encourages them to come forward, it saves taxpayers money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 1987 and 2019, whistleblowers were responsible for over *70% of all federal FCA recoveries. Those statistics are not merely impressive, they are essential. Without whistleblowers, much of the fraud uncovered would have continued for years unchecked. Conclusion: This is a common-sense, bipartisan solution Opponents claim this legislation could increase litigation or compliance costs for honest businesses despite decades of evidence from other states. That argument is not supported by decades of evidence from other states. Instead, The existence of FCA laws typically leads to better compliance, fewer repeat offenses, and stronger deterrence against fraud. The idea that Pennsylvania should remain the only major state without this protection is indefensible. Combating fraud should never be partisan. The federal False Claims Act was strengthened under both Democratic and Republican leadership. State-level FCAs have been passed by legislatures of all political stripes. Protecting taxpayer money is not a political goal. It is a moral and fiscal imperative. This isnt just about recovering millions of dollars in taxpayer money, its about sending a message that the commonwealth will no longer tolerate being a safe haven for fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eric H. Weitz is president of the Pennsylvania Association for Justice and founder of The Weitz Firm, LLC, renowned for winning multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in complex medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, and commercial litigation nationwide. A fierce advocate for patient safety, Eric serves on the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority Board and holds a Johns Hopkins certification in the field. Eric teaches trial advocacy as an adjunct professor at Villanovas Charles Widger School of Law. BOISE, Idaho (AP) One after another, the friends and family of the four University of Idaho students killed in their home by Bryan Kohberger vented their emotions in sobs, insults and curses before a packed courtroom Wednesday as he was sentenced to life in prison. Ben Mogen, the father of Madison Mogen, credited her with helping keep him alive through his fight with addiction. He called her the only thing Im proud of. Dylan Mortensen, a roommate of the victims who told police of seeing a strange man with bushy eyebrows and a ski mask in the home that night, called Kohberger a hollow vessel, something less than human. She shook with tears as she described how Kohberger took the light they carried into each room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hell will be waiting, Kristi Goncalves, the mother of Kaylee Goncalves, told the killer. Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for first-degree murder in the killings of Mogen, Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary and assessed $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. Kohberger, 30, pleaded guilty weeks before his trial was to start in a deal to avoid the death penalty. Prosecutors and defense attorneys agreed on the sentence. Kohberger gives no explanation When it was his turn to speak in court, Kohberger said, I respectfully decline, shedding no light on why he slipped into the rental home in Moscow through a sliding glass door early on Nov. 13, 2022, and stabbed four of the students inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I share the desire expressed by others to understand the why, Hippler said. But upon reflection, it seems to me, and this is just my own opinion, that by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency and we give him power. The crime horrified the city, which had not seen a homicide in about five years, and prompted a massive search for the perpetrator. Some students took the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. Kohberger, a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University, was arrested in Pennsylvania, where his parents lived, roughly six weeks later. A Q-tip from the garbage at his parents house and genetic genealogy was used to match Kohbergers DNA to material recovered from a knife sheath found at the home, investigators said. They used cellphone data to pinpoint his movements and surveillance camera footage to help locate a white sedan that was seen repeatedly driving past the home the night of the killings. But investigators told reporters after Wednesday's hearing that exhaustive efforts failed to find the murder weapon, the clothes Kohberger was wearing at the time or any connection between him and the students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within hours of the sentencing, the Moscow Police Department posted hundreds of documents about the investigation on its website. They detailed how investigators processed the gruesome crime scene; ran down tips from people who claimed to have gone on a Tinder date with Kohberger or to have seen him walking along a highway; and tested soil and pollen found on a shovel in his car to see if they could narrow down where it had been used. Loved ones express loss and fury This world was a better place with her in it, said Scott Laramie, Mogen's stepfather. Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie. Goncalves' father, Steve, taunted Kohberger for getting caught despite his education in forensics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, he said. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Kernodle's father, Jeff, recalled that his daughter had not been feeling well that night and he thought about driving the 7 miles (11.3 km) to the rental home to be with her. He decided against it because he had been drinking. Mortensen and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks afterward. I slept in my parents room for almost a year and had them double lock every door, set an alarm and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding, Funke said in a statement read by a friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alivea Goncalves's voice did not waver as she asked Kohberger questions including what her sisters last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are, Alivea Goncalves said. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Chapins family did not attend. Kohbergers mother and sister sat in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Mogens grandmother said her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohbergers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xana Kernodles aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings. Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here. No judgment. ___ This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Dylan Mortensen's last name. ___ Johnson reported from Seattle. The families and loved ones of the four students stabbed to death in a home near the University of Idaho campus faced Bryan Kohberger during his sentencing in a Boise court Wednesday in an outpouring of grief, anger and even forgiveness. Many spoke through tears in giving their emotional statements. Some addressed Kohberger directly, while others said they did not want to waste the words on him. The judge also choked up at times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a look at the hearing in their words: Alivea Goncalves, Kaylee Goncalves' sister Alivea Goncalves voice didnt waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the details of the killings, like what her sisters last words were. The family has previously blasted the plea deal because it thwarted the opportunity to reveal those details in a trial. If you were really smart, do you think youd be here right now? Whats it like needing this much attention just to feel real? she said. Kohberger remained expressionless as Alivea Goncalves insulted him. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courtroom applauded after Goncalves sister delivered her final line, which disparaged Kohberger for attacking his victims in the middle of the night in their sleep. If he hadn't, Alivea Goncalves said, Kaylee would have kicked your ass. Ben Mogen, Madison Mogen's father Shes the only great thing that I ever really did and the only thing Im proud of, he said. I thought we would have the rest of our lives together too. Bethany Funke, surviving roommate I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panics, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or I'm about to lose someone else that I love," Funke said in a statement read by a friend. For a long time, I could barely get out of bed. But one day, I realized I have to live for them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dylan Mortensen, surviving roommate Sometimes I drop to the floor with my heart racing, convinced something is very wrong. Its far beyond anxiety. Its my body reliving everything over and over again, she said. He may have taken so much from me, but he will never get to take my voice. He will never take the memories I have of them. Scott Laramie, Madison Mogen's stepfather Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie, he said, referring to his wife, Maddie's mother. As for the defendant, we will not waste the words. Nor will we fall into hatred and bitterness." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Kernodle, Xana Kernodle's aunt "Bryan, Im here today to tell you I have forgiven you because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart, she said. Any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. Im here, no judgment, because I do have questions that I want you to answer. Steve Goncalves, Kaylee Goncalves father "You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid, he said, taunting Kohberger for getting caught. Masters degree? Youre a joke. Judge Steven Hippler No parent should ever have to bury their child, Hippler said. Parents who took their children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The family of a 4-year-old boy who was fatally struck by a stolen Kia has filed a lawsuit against the automaker, seeking more than $15 million in damages. Yonis Said died on the evening of July 22, 2023, after being struck by a stolen Kia Soul while playing outside with his mother at the Southpark Apartment Complex in Franklinton. Tyrell Shute, 26, was charged in connection with the boys death. According to court records, while fleeing from officers who attempted a traffic stop, Shute drove over a curb into a grassy field and hit Said. He then continued driving a short distance before exiting the vehicle and running from police. The Kia he was driving was reported stolen earlier that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 21, Saids family filed a lawsuit against Kia in the U.S. District Court in Columbus, alleging the company created a public nuisance by selling vehicles that are easy to steal, resulting in the childs death. There is an inextricable link between preventing vehicle theft and protecting public safety, the lawsuit states. Making sure cars are not easy to steal both protects property and protects the public by keeping dangerous drivers in stolen vehicles off the roads. A representative from Kia America declined to comment because the ligitation is pending. From 2021 to 2023, about half of all vehicles stolen in Columbus were Kias or Hyundais, according to the filing. Design flaws in many of the brands models have made them easy to steal, partly due to their lack of an engine immobilizer: an anti-theft system that is found in most modern vehicles and prevents the engine from starting without the correct key. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Videos teaching people how to steal the cars often with tools no more advanced than a USB cable began to gain traction on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube in 2021, creating a surge of stolen Kias and Hyundais across the country. The lawsuit states Kia knew, or should have known, its vehicles would be less dangerous if they were designed with industry-standard safety measures, such as engine immobilizers. The filing says the manufacturer failed to install these anti-theft devices in most of their cars sold in the United States, despite installing them in vehicles sold in Europe and Canada. Shute pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, receiving stolen property and failure to comply last August, and was sentenced to 14 to 19.5 years in prison. Police estimated Shute was driving at 40 mph during the collision, while the posted speed limit was 5 mph, according to court records. After Said was struck, Columbus police drove him to Nationwide Childrens Hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kia has faced similar lawsuits in Columbus before. In 2023, the City of Columbus filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming the cars lack of security features cost the citys residents, insurance companies and law enforcement millions of dollars. The case remains ongoing. The family of Matthew Moshi, 36, also sued the auto manufacturer in 2024. Moshi was driving in Hilliard when he was fatally struck by a teenager driving a stolen Kia. That case has since been dismissed, after a judge ruled the filing failed to establish Kias actions were the direct cause of Moshis 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. Fiserv, Inc (NYSE:FI) stock tumbled Wednesday after it reported fiscal second-quarter 2025 results. The company reported quarterly revenue growth of 8% year-over-year to $5.52 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $5.20 billion. Growth was 10% in the Merchant Solutions segment and 7% in the Financial Solutions segment. Adjusted revenue increased 8% year-over-year to $5.20 billion. The financial technology and services provider's adjusted EPS of $2.47 beat the analyst consensus estimate of $2.43. The quarterly adjusted EPS increased by 16% over the same period last year. Also Read: Fiserv Stock Jumps After Mastercard Embraces Its New Stablecoin, Bringing FIUSD to 150 Million Merchants Worldwide Organic revenue grew 8%, led by 9% growth in Merchant Solutions and 7% in Financial Solutions. View more earnings on FI The adjusted operating margin increased by 120 bps Y/Y to 39.6%. Adjusted operating margin decreased 200 basis points Y/Y to 34.6% in the Merchant Solutions segment. The margin increased 280 bps Y/Y to 48.7% in the Financial Solutions segment. Acquistion Fiserv expanded its presence in Canada by signing a multi-year Strategic Managed Services agreement with TD Bank Group. The agreement enables TD Merchant Solutions to adopt Fiserv's technology, including the Clover point-of-sale system, for its merchant operations. The deal strengthens Fiserv's Canadian ties and opens new opportunities to scale Clover hardware and software solutions. Fiserv also signed a purchase agreement to acquire part of TD's Canadian merchant processing business, adding about 3,400 merchant relationships and 30,000 locations to its portfolio. These merchants will migrate to Fiserv's processing platform and use Clover, reinforcing the company's commitment to serving small and mid-sized businesses with innovative technology. The companies expect the transaction to close later this year, pending customary approvals. Financial details remain undisclosed. FY25 Outlook Fiserv expects organic revenue growth of approximately 10% (prior 10%-12%) and adjusted EPS outlook of $10.15-$10.30 (prior $10.10-$10.30), representing growth of 15%-17% Y/Y versus the $10.20 analyst consensus estimate. Fiserv stock plunged over 19% year-to-date. S&P 500 Index (where Fiserv is a constituent) gained over 7%. Multiple Wall Street firms slashed their price forecasts on the stock in 2025. Price Action: FI stock is down 21.30% at $130.65 at last check Wednesday. Journalist Mario Guevara's children, Katherine and Oscar Guevara, speak out against his arrest at a press conference in Atlanta on July 22, 2025. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder Lawyers, free speech advocates and family members gathered Tuesday at Georgias state Capitol in Atlanta to advocate for Mario Guevara, an Emmy-award winning Spanish-language journalist who has remained in federal custody more than a month after his arrest at a metro Atlanta protest. Guevara, who was known for his immigration reporting, was covering a protest against the Trump administrations immigration policies when he was arrested in DeKalb County on June 14. DeKalb County police initially charged him with improperly entering a roadway, obstruction of law enforcement officers and unlawful assembly, all of which are misdemeanor offenses. He was later charged with three additional misdemeanors from the Gwinnett County Sheriffs Office for distracted driving, failure to obey a traffic control device, and reckless driving. All six charges have since been dropped, according to the Associated Press. Journalist Mario Guevara was live-streaming the June 14 anti-ICE protest on Chamblee Tucker Road when he was detained. Photo credit: Alessandro Marazzi Sassoon with the Atlanta Civic Circle An immigrant from El Salvador, Guevara has been a resident of the U.S. for more than 20 years and is authorized to work in this country. However, the misdemeanor charges after his arrest allowed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to place a detainer on him, paving the way for a potential deportation. He was transferred into ICE custody three days after his initial arrest and has remained there ever since. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is currently being held at the Folkston ICE Processing Center in South Georgia, according to his attorney, Giovanni Diaz. The facility, which currently holds just over 1,100 beds, is set to become the largest immigrant detention facility in the United States. While Guevara is physically unharmed, Diaz said his experience in federal custody has shaken him. Hes an incredibly positive person, he leans on his faith and his family, and he continues to do that while in detention, Diaz said. But I think theres certain things that have him shaken to his core. At Tuesdays press conference, two of Guevaras children spoke out on behalf of their father, who they say has dedicated his life to informing Atlantas Hispanic community. Guevara spent years working for the Spanish-language newspaper Mundo Hispanico before founding his own digital news outlet, MG News, about one year ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since hes been detained, our family has felt an emptiness that we cannot begin to fill, said Guevaras daughter, Katherine Guevara. My mom is exhausted. My brothers and I feel like were stuck in a nightmare. This is not just about one journalist, she continued. This is about what kind of country we want to be. If a government can punish a reporter for doing his job, what message does that send? What protections are left for the rest of us? Guevaras son Oscar echoed her sentiments, saying that his fathers work wasnt just a job, it was a calling, and now hes being punished for answering that call. My dad has been a legal resident of the U.S. for more than 20 years, he added. He pays taxes, hes followed the law. He raised a family here, and yet, despite having no charges against him, hes sitting in a cell as if hes a threat, all because he was doing his job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guevaras arrest and subsequent transfer into ICE custody has gained national attention, prompting an outcry from First Amendment advocates in Georgia who have pushed for his release. Mario Guevaras case feels emblematic of the disturbing path that the United States is on, said civil rights and free speech lawyer Nora Benavidez, linking Guevaras case to those of Mahmoud Khalil and Rumeysa Ozturk, two immigrants who were detained by ICE agents after speaking out in support of Palestine. If the exercise of [First Amendment] rights is now penalized like it is with Mario Guevara, simply because those in power dislike the message or the messenger, that means that our basic freedoms are not free, Benavidez said. They have become privileges doled out for good behavior if those in power allow it. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has disputed First Amendment advocates characterization of Guevaras arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accusations that Mario Guevara was arrested by ICE because he is a journalist are completely untrue, the DHS said in a post on the social media site X, adding this El Salvador national is in ICE custody because he entered the country illegally in 2004. Mario Guevaras lawyer, Giovanni Diaz, speaks at a press conference in Atlanta on July 22, 2025. Maya Homan/Georgia Recorder Guevara fled his home country of El Salvador in 2004 after facing violence due to his reporting and applied for asylum. Though an immigration judge rejected his asylum application in 2012, Diaz told the Associated Press that the case was ultimately resolved, with Guevara receiving authorization to continue working in the U.S. He currently has a pending green card application sponsored by his son, who is a U.S. citizen. Though Guevara was granted bond by an immigration judge three weeks ago, he remained in custody after ICE appealed the ruling. Guevaras lawyers said they are optimistic that the Board of Immigration Appeals will eventually allow him to be released on bail, and that they will continue to prepare for the next stage of his case. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SOUTH CAROLINA (WSPA) A family returned to the Upstate Wednesday after being trapped in Syria. Desiree Gomez, her husband Mohamad Shokair and their 18-month-old daughter Salma could not leave after conflict broke out in As Suwayda. The family arrived at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport around 5:30 p.m. Nonprofit organization Grey Bull Rescue led the efforts to bring the family home. The organization specializes in international rescues in the grey space, or areas with the U.S. does not have access or a presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders said they began a rapid-response mission to locate the family, describing the rescue as a Schindlers List-style operation with passwords, codes, tradecraft, secret roads, and other complex tactics. The rescue, Stern added, was supported by Sen. Lindsey Graham and Sen. Tim Scotts teams. Were grateful for Senator Graham and Scotts team and their efforts to keep the family safe, said Bryan Stern, Chairman and Founder of Grey Bull Rescue. This was an incredible effortfrom Spartanburg, South Carolina to the Middle East. Gomez works as an assistant principal at Lyman Elementary School in Spartanburg County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Desiree should be preparing her students for the new school year, not wondering if her family will survive, Stern said. Now, shell get that chance. And Salma will grow up safe, where she belongs. Graham called the familys impending return great news. The family was on a visit to their relatives in Syria and were caught in the chaos and fighting, he said. I urge all Americans to pay close attention to all State Department travel advisories before making any trips even if it is family related. Again, I am so grateful to all those who assisted in this endeavor to bring this family safely back home to South Carolina. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ken Beckley never went to Harvard, but he has been wearing a crimson Harvard cap in a show of solidarity. As he sees it, the Trump administration's attacks on the school echo a case of government overreach at his own alma mater, Indiana University. Beckley, a former head of the school's alumni association, rallied fellow graduates this spring in an unsuccessful effort to stop Gov. Mike Braun, a Republican, from removing three alumni-elected members from Indiana Universitys Board of Trustees and handpicking their replacements. No government effort to influence a university private or public has gotten more attention than the clash at Harvard, where the Trump administration has frozen billions of dollars in federal funding as it seeks a series of policy changes. But far beyond the Ivy League, Republican officials are targeting public universities in several states with efforts seeking similar ends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats happened nationally is now affecting Indiana, said Beckley, who bought Harvard caps in bulk and passes them out to friends. Officials in conservative states took aim at higher education before President Donald Trump began his second term, driven in part by the belief that colleges are out of touch too liberal and loading up students with too much debt. The first efforts focused on critical race theory, an academic framework centered on the idea that racism is embedded in the nations institutions, and then on diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Since Trump took office, officials in states including Indiana, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Iowa and Idaho increasingly have focused on university governance rules for who picks university presidents and boards and how much control they exert over curriculums and faculty tenure. As at Harvard, which Trump has decried as overly influenced by liberal thinking, those state officials have sought to reduce the power of faculty members and students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyve realized that they can take a bit of a step further, that they can advance their policy priorities through those levers they have through the state university system, said Preston Cooper, a senior fellow who studies higher education policy at the conservative American Enterprise Institute. State officials push for more conservative leadership In Indiana, Braun said he picked new trustees who will guide the school back in the right direction. They include an anti-abortion attorney and a former ESPN host who was disciplined because she criticized the company's policy requiring employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Braun's administration has ramped up scrutiny of hiring practices at colleges statewide. Indiana's attorney general, Todd Rokita, has sent letters to the University of Notre Dame, Butler University and DePauw University questioning the legality of their DEI programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butler, a private, liberal arts school in Indianapolis, was founded by an abolitionist in the decade leading up to the Civil War and admitted women and students of color from the start. I hope that Butler will uphold the standards they were founded on, said Edyn Curry, president of Butlers Black Student Union. In Florida, the state university system board in June rejected longtime academic Santa Ono for the presidency at the University of Florida, despite a unanimous vote of approval by the school's own Board of Trustees. The unprecedented reversal followed criticism from conservatives about Ono's past support for DEI programs. That followed the conservative makeover of New College of Florida, a small liberal arts school once known as the states most progressive. After Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed a group of conservatives to its governing board, many faculty left, including Amy Reid, who now manages a team focused on higher education at the free-expression group PEN America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When our students started organizing at New College, one of their slogans was Your Campus is Next, said Reid, who saw the gender studies program she directed defunded and then cut. So no, were not surprised when you see other states redefining what can be in a general education class, because weve seen it happen already. Changes have met limited resistance The changes at several public universities are proceeding without battles of the kind seen at Harvard. In a standoff seen widely as a test of private universities' independence, Harvard has filed lawsuits against the administration's moves to cut its federal funding and block its ability to host international students. In Iowa, new DEI restrictions are taking effect in July for community colleges. And the board that governs the state's three public universities is weighing doing something similar to Idaho, where a new law imposes restrictions on requiring students to take DEI-related courses to meet graduation requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historically, the Iowa board has been focused on big-picture issues like setting tuition rates and approving degree programs. Now, there's a perceived sense that faculty should not be solely responsible for academic matters and that the trustees should play a more active role, said Joseph Yockey, a professor at the University of Iowa College of Law and the former president of Iowas faculty senate. What we started to see more recently is trustees losing confidence, Yockey said. A new law in Ohio bans DEI programs at public colleges and universities and also strips faculty of certain collective bargaining rights and tenure protections. There are few guardrails limiting how far oversight boards can change public institutions, said Isabel McMullen, a doctoral candidate at the University of Wisconsin who researches higher education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a board that really does want to wreak havoc on an institution and overthrow a bunch of different programs, I think if a board is interested in doing that, I dont really see whats stopping them aside from students and faculty really organizing against it, McMullen said. Defenders of academic freedom see threats on several fronts The initiatives on state and federal levels have led to widespread concerns about an erosion of college's independence from politics, said Isaac Kamola, director of the Center for the Defense of Academic Freedom at the American Association of University Professors. They have to not only face an attack from the state legislature, but also from the federal government as well, said Kamola, who is also a professor of political science at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed a pair of bills in June that impose new limits on student protests and give gubernatorial-appointed boards that oversee the states universities new powers to control the curriculum and eliminate degree programs. Cameron Samuels, executive director of Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, an advocacy group, said politicians in the state are taking control of universities to dictate what is acceptable. When someone controls the dissemination of ideas, that is a really dangerous sign for the future of democracy, Samuels said. The 21-year-old who is transgender and nonbinary went to college in Massachusetts and got into Harvard for graduate school, but as the Trump administration began targeting the institution, Samuels instead chose to return to their home state and attend the University of Texas in Austin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I at least knew what to expect, Samuels said. ____ The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. CACHE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) A theft on a farm in Cache County was caught on camera, and the sheriffs office is asking the publics assistance in identifying the suspects. The Cache County Sheriffs Office shared the photos and videos in a social media post and said that the individuals are involved in a farm theft case. They stated that they are seeking community help in identifying the individuals in the photos and videos. The theft occurred at around 5:45 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22. Suspects in farm theft, courtesy: Cache County Sheriffs Office Suspect in farm theft, courtesy: Cache County Sheriffs Office In the videos released by the sheriffs office, one man can be seen crouching in front of a piece of farm equipment several times. In one of the videos, he is using what appears to be a wrench in order to loosen something. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office did not specify exactly what was stolen from the farm. If you recognize either of these people or have any information, the sheriffs office is requesting that you contact Sgt. Olsen at 435-755-1124. They stated that all tips will be kept confidential. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An apple orchard in North Carolina is facing worries about this year's crops following harsh weather conditions. What's happening? According to WYFF News Channel 4, a recent hailstorm has caused minor damage to the apples at Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard, but combined with other events, this is a worrisome experience. "Countywide, we may be off 40%, 50% of our usual crop," Mike Stepp, a farmer at the Hendersonville, NC orchard, told WYFF4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the latest storm was less problematic than expected, this was the third hailstorm in the last month and comes less than a year after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on the area. "It's going to impact the wholesale market probably more than anything else," Stepp added, per WYFF4. "Those go to grocery stores, and they have to be pretty much perfect, whereas our processing apples don't have to be quite as perfect, and our pick-your-own apples don't have to be quite as perfect." Why are the impacted apples important? The decrease in wholesale sales highlights a major issue facing supermarket produce. Often, food that doesn't fit the perfect aesthetic standard gets thrown out or wasted. This contributes to the food waste problem across the U.S., as the Department of Agriculture estimates 30-40% of the food supply is wasted. One shopper online was able to take steps to combat this issue after they asked the grocery store if they could have their outdated produce to give to their pet tortoise, and was given a massive quantity of perfectly good vegetables that the store decided not to sell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, the decrease in actually viable apples due to the weather impacts the farmers like Stepp, who rely on apple sales to survive, the people who count on apples as food, and the local pollinators. Better crops are better for everyone. What's being done about the apple crops? As bruises or other hail-related harm to the apples can subject them to diseases, Mike Stepp is taking preventative measures to keep the apples healthy. "We try to keep them covered for diseases because when you open the flesh, you're apt to have some disease," he told WYFF4. While natural disasters and weather events are inevitable, they are exacerbated by increasing global temperatures, often brought on by burning dirty fuels. By educating yourself on critical climate issues, such as how you personally contribute to extreme heat, you can take small steps to help do your part to lessen the effects of these events. 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. Shein is in the spotlight again for alleged unethical business practices. This time, it's not about workers' conditions or causing illness to its consumers. In the UK, it is under fire for fibbing about customs declarations, reported the Telegraph. What's happening? Shein's latest lawsuit is one from the high courts of the UK that claims the company avoided paying taxes on clothes imported to the UK. Specifically, the claim is that Shein "manipulated customs declarations for VAT evasion" for its flying parcels, according to the High Court documents analyzed by the Telegraph. The claim was filed by a customs agent, IT Way Transgroup Clearance, in tandem with Orange Transgroup for parcels transited between 2021 and 2024. IT Way Transgroup Clearance claimed that it worked with Shein "under pressure and reputational risk," as Shein had "misrepresented parcel responsibility," per the Telegraph. It seeks 5.8 million (about $7.7 million) from Shein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shein has responded to the lawsuit. A spokesman said on Shein's behalf, "The allegations that have been made against Shein are completely unfounded. Shein complies with all relevant laws and regulations in each market it operates in and will defend and pursue its legitimate interests rigorously," per the Telegraph. Why is Shein's tax evasion lawsuit important? Shein is able to hide behind the de minimis rule as it ships low-value parcels to individual customers instead of shipping in bulk to warehouses. Under the de minimis rule, shipments worth less than 135 (about $181) are exempt from UK import duty, regardless of the fact that Shein earned $38 billion in profit from its sales worldwide, according to Reuters. Shein has pushed back against the claims by saying the de minimis tax exemption allows a lower price to be passed along to the customers and "lowers their unsold inventory," according to the high court documents. Shein already has a worldwide reputation for its harmful environmental practices, workers' conditions, cheaply-made clothing with planned obsolescence, and prices that no ethical company can match. Its site launches 2,000 to 10,000 new items per day, and it produced 16.7 million tons of carbon in the year 2023 alone, according to SHEIN's Sustainability and Social Impact Report. What can be done about Shein evading import taxes? Fashion brands are becoming more vocal about Shein's evasion, as the average brand has to ship to warehouses, not directly to consumers. The UK is also considering closing the de minimis loophole, similarly to the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consumers can do their part by avoiding shopping with fast fashion brands altogether. You can make a difference and save yourself a ton of cash by thrifting, and you can invest in higher-quality clothes that will last you for years instead of weeks. 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. Jul. 23A fatal shooting outside the Gaslight Lounge in downtown Anchorage early Sunday has prompted increased police patrols and an overnight parking ban along the West Fourth Avenue block that includes the bar. The Anchorage Police Department announced the change Wednesday afternoon. Video footage provided by the Gaslight shows a man in a hoodie and face covering appearing to open fire on multiple people outside the bar before 3 a.m. Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video also shows a security employee grabbing a tactical rifle from the trunk of a nearby car and firing on the apparent shooter, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Three others were wounded, according to bar owner John Pattee: two security employees and a patron grazed by a stray bullet that penetrated a window. Police identified the man killed as 23-year-old Leroy Manogiamanu. They estimated there were roughly 100 people in the area when the shooting took place just before bar break, when establishments must stop serving alcohol. Police on Wednesday said that in the wake of the shooting, weekend patrols will double in size from four officers already assigned to a total of eight officers on patrol during peak hours. The addition is temporary and expected to last for the next several weeks, they said. Beginning Friday, parking meters on West Fourth Avenue between G and H streets will be blocked off from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights "to reduce late-night congregation and improve safety for pedestrians and patrons," police said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gaslight is located along that block, along with the Pioneer Bar. Gaslight owner Pattee said in an interview Monday that prior to the shooting, he started working with police Chief Sean Case as well as local business owners and Alaska Hospitality Retailers to address the issue of crowding on the street in front of the Gaslight. "People not even my customers park their cars out front, they drink, sit out front," Pattee said. "I don't know who they are." The person who appears to be the shooter in Sunday morning's incident did not appear to go into the Gaslight in videos of the incident. Pattee said he and another man who could be seen walking past the bar together were never inside that night. Two women associated with the men were denied access around midnight, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bar, situated across the street from the police department's administrative headquarters, has been the location of numerous bar break brawls over the years, including one just over a year ago outside the Gaslight that left one man dead and another wounded. A woman was charged in association with a fight outside the bar that led to the shooting. Police had already been preparing additional safety measures before the shooting occurred, they said in the the statement. "APD is now accelerating and proactively expanding those plans," the department said. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Shippensburg laundromat employee stabbed two men in self-defense, killing one of them during an assault in October, court documents show. Dylan Moore, 21, of Shippensburg, faces numerous charges including aggravated assault and trespassing for the Oct. 27 attack at The Wash Tub Laundromat, located along North Washington Street, according to online court records. Pennsylvania State Police were able to view the events that led up to the deadly stabbing on the laundromat surveillance video, according to the criminal complaint filed in MDJ Bryan Ruths office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Police at Carlisle said in the complaint that Troopers found Moore, along with Christopher Nunn II, from Texas, on the ground in the parking lot, suffering from stab wounds. Troopers rendered aid to them until EMS arrived at the scene. Pennsylvania unveils cause behind 911 outage Nunn died from his wounds, State Police said, but Moore was taken to Penn State Health Holy Spirit for treatment. While at the scene, Troopers also saw that there were two assault victims, a male employee and a woman. State Police say it was apparent that a significant struggle had just happened. Strewn across from the rear parking lot to the rear door were various articles of clothing, blood and medical supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers discovered that the incident was recorded on the laundromats surveillance video and were able to see the events that led up to the stabbing, according to court docs. Taser used in assault State Police said Nunn and Moore were seen loitering in the laundromat after they walked in. Moore sits on a folding table and is then seen holding a flashlight Taser, the criminal complaint states. He then is seen making a stabbing motion in the air and shaking his body as if the Taser hit him. The duo then soon leaves the laundromat through the rear door, and at the same time, the victims are seen coming the same way. Nunn and Moore were walking in the lot, but turned toward the alleged victims in an aggressive manner, Troopers say. Former Pennsylvania school resource officer charged with possessing child sex abuse material Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video Troopers reviewed reportedly showed Moore Tasing the woman in the neck before he turned on the man and allegedly tased him. Moore and Nunn allegedly proceeded to assault the employee by punching him repeatedly for almost a minute. According to the complaint, as the employee was being assaulted up against the door, he pulled out a knife and stabbed Moore and Nunn, who then stumbled backwards. The victims then ran away, but the man returned to provide aid to Moore. Interviews with the victims Troopers were also able to interview the victims. They reported seeing how Nunn and Moore were acting in the laundromat through surveillance video, and he came to confront them. The employee told Moore not to sit on the table and that they needed to leave. Both parties were then yelling back and forth before the violent attack broke out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both assault victims were clearly injured, State Police said. Medical records showed the employee suffered a fractured nose along with bruising across his face and arm. The woman reported having neck pain and abrasions to her knee. 911 call made by Moore During the investigation, Troopers also listened to calls made to the Cumberland County Emergency Communications Center in connection with this incident. In one of the calls, the employee was heard confronting Moore about the assault, and Moore said he was sorry. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Livestream Alerts Online court records show Moore is currently in Cumberland County Prison with bail set at $500,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore had a preliminary hearing Wednesday in front of Magisterial District Judge (MDJ) Elizabeth Beckley, court records show. He is scheduled to be formally arraigned Sept. 22. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Police arrested a man accused of leaving his child unattended in a vehicle at a gas station parking lot in Marana after video of the incident circulated on social media. Video of the incident showed the child in the back seat of a car, with the engine running. The video then showed the child's father returning to his vehicle with a case of beer and driving away. The person associated with the vehicle and the child was arrested for leaving an unattended child in a motor vehicle, the Marana Police Department said in a Facebook post. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Father arrested on suspicion of leaving child unattended in vehicle The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it is "revoking, or proposing to revoke, 52 food standards after concluding they are obsolete and unnecessary." It's a move that could change the contents of some of your favorite prepared foods. The FDA explained in a statement that the standards of identity (SOIs) being immediately revoked or proposed for revocation are for canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, macaroni products, and "other foods," as the FDA believes their standards of identity are no longer relevant. Im eliminating outdated food regulations that no longer serve the interests of American families, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shared in a statement. Today marks a crucial step in my drive to cut through bureaucratic red tape, increase transparency, and remove regulations that have outlived their purpose." The FDA explained that it started setting standards of identity in 1939 to promote honesty and fair dealing and ensure the "characteristics, ingredients, and production processes of specific foods were consistent with what consumers expect." It noted that, at the time, there were products "that were represented as jams containing fruit, but the products contained little fruit, so it established baselines for a food to be labeled as such. Oregon Growers explained that Preserves and Jams must contain at least "55% sugar and 45% fruit. If a product does not meet these requirements, it must be called by another name." Jam makers may no longer be required to adhere to these percentages if their standard of identity were to go away. However, the FDA now contends that these rules have hindered innovation. Food Dive referenced an article by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, which explains that these rules can require quite specific details. For instance, it noted that "Colby" cheese must be made from unpasteurized (raw) milk and cured at a temperature "not less than 35F (1.7C) for at least 60 days (21 CFR 113.118)," while "Monterey Jack" must be made from "pasteurized milk." Related: The FDA Just Launched an AI Tool That Could Issue Food Recalls Faster Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This news will likely be especially welcome to the dairy community, as more than a quarter are in the cheese segment, Food Dive added. Others include vegetable noodle products, artificially sweetened canned fruit cocktail, and Vanilla-vanillin extract (see the complete list here). Importantly, the FDA noted that it issued a direct final rule revoking standards for 11 types of canned fruits and vegetables that are "no longer sold in U.S. grocery stores, including seven standards for fruits artificially sweetened with saccharin or sodium saccharin." According to the FDA, the decision was made after it reviewed its portfolio of "over 250 food Standards of Identity (SOI) to make sure they are useful, relevant, and serve consumers in the best possible way." The removal, it added, is aligned with the agency's broader efforts to allocate "resources to where theyre most needed delivering better outcomes for the American people." The FDAs Standards of Identity efforts have helped ensure uniformity, boost consumer confidence, and prevent food fraud. But many of these standards have outlived their usefulness and may even stifle innovation in making food easier to produce or providing consumers healthier choices, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary added. Antiquated food standards are no longer serving to protect consumers. It is common sense to revoke them and move to a more judicious use of food standards and agency resources." Read the original article on Food & Wine Dental assistant Oscar Bolanos applies fluoride to Daniel Chavez's teeth during an appointment at Dental Aid Clinic in Louisville, Colo. Credit - Seth McConnell/The Denver Post via Getty Images Dr. James H. Bekker made it clear while standing at a podium in front of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Silver Spring, Md. on July 23: there is no way to replace fluoride supplements if the government decides to take them off the market. In communities without fluoridated water, these supplements are the only way that families can help children access fluoride, the dentist said, thus protecting their teeth from decay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we dont have fluoride, there are certain things that happen that are very disturbing, said Bekker, a professor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry and a past president of the American Dental Association, at a hearing debating the FDAs plan to ban ingestible fluoride tablets from the marketplace. We have an increase in tooth decay, and we have an increase in the use of emergency services to receive care for dental emergencies. Yet the FDA appears to be moving towards banning these supplements after a contentious hearing in which scientists, pediatricians, and other doctors argued for and against banning fluoride supplements. The move comes after a controversial study published in JAMA Pediatrics in Jan. 2025 found that significant fluoride exposure was linked to a decrease in childrens IQ scores. The level of fluoride linked with IQ decay was far greater than the amount children are exposed to through either supplements or fluoridated water. What this is saying is that fluoride in water was causing a cognitive decrease in younger childrenso thats a tough thing to defend, said Dr. George Tidmarsh, the former pharmaceutical executive recently tapped to run the FDAs Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, at the hearing. He then went on to criticize the pro-fluoride presentations that had just occurred and praise the presentation of Dr. Bill Osmunson, a dentist on the board of directors of the Fluoride Action Network, a group that is advocating against fluoride across the country. In May, the FDA said it was initiating action to remove ingestible fluoride prescription drug products for children from the market, and that it had asked the organization that Tidmarsh now heads to evaluate the evidence on these prescription drug products. It set a date for Oct. 31 for completing a safety review and public comment period, and for taking appropriate action regarding removal of these products from the market. The July 23 hearing was part of that public comment period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These fluoride supplements, unlike fluoridated water, have not been extensively studied or tested, which is one of the reasons the FDA says it wants to ban them. When it comes to children, we should err on the side of safety," FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary said, in the announcement that the FDA would move to ban supplements. Read More: America's Dental Health Is In Trouble The move to restrict access to fluoride supplements follows efforts to ban fluoride from drinking water across the country; these efforts have been successful in Utah and Florida, which both banned fluoride from drinking water this year. Challenges to fluoride in the drinking water became more prevalent after Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), called fluoride industrial waste in Nov. 2024, and said that the Trump Administration would advise that it be removed from drinking water supplies. The debate over fluoride is the latest example of how Kennedys tenure at HHS has upended decades of scientific consensus, putting many medical professionals on the defensive. Fluoride has been widely proven to decrease cavities, and places that banned fluoride from drinking water like Calgary, in Canada, saw a notable uptick in tooth decay afterwards. (Calgary later decided to restore fluoride to the water supply.) Studies that suggest negative impacts of fluoride on childrens IQ and thyroid function, on the other hand, have mostly been conducted outside the U.S. and looked at higher ranges of fluoride than most U.S. children are exposed to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are the only country questioning the safety of fluoride at this level, said Dr. Scott Tomar, a dentist at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, one of the many medical professionals who spoke at the hearing and seemed not a little frustrated by some of the science being put forward. Doctors and dentists also said that banning fluoride supplements would disproportionately affect low-income children who dont have consistent access to dental care and who often live in areas that already have high rates of cavities. Even if these children have the best practices in caring for their teeth, the absence of fluoride can hurt. Just brushing and using toothpaste alone is not enough, said Dr. Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque, a dentist who is the acting director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institutes of Health. While the official FDA panels were evenly divided between pro and anti-fluoride speakers, the public comment period was full of doctors and dentists reiterating the benefits of fluoridation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is important to note that no serious or robust data exists to support the contention that these products pose a threat to public health, said Peter Pitts, president and co-founder of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, in the public comment period. Read More: The Science Behind Fluoride in Drinking Water The American Dental Association, the American Association of Pediatrics, other professional medical organizations, as well as many independent dentists and dental hygienists submitted comments to the FDA on the topic of fluoridation, advocating for the supplements to remain on the market. One of the ironies of the move to ban fluoride supplements is that states that banned fluoride from water supplies pointed to supplements as a way that families could give fluoride to their children once it was removed from the water supply. Now, the government is talking about taking those away. That whole argument in that legislation was, get a supplement, said Bekker, the Utah dentist. As we consider supplements, the opportunity to have them available is a matter of people's choice. We're not forcing anyone to take them; we're allowing them to have an option, and to have a choice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tidmarsh, from the FDA, assured the pro-fluoride contingent that if supplements are banned, there is still one way to get them back on the market: as a drug. He pointed out that supplements are not approved by the FDA, meaning they have not gone through rigorous testing and analysis. (Many pharmaceutical products prescribed to children, such as some cold medicines, have also not gone through that analysis because there are not many clinical trials involving children.) If we decide to take sodium fluoride supplement off the market, there's nothing that would prevent a group from doing the rigorous studies bringing it back to FDA, he said. The hearing included evidence on fluorides effect on the gut microbiome, on neurocognitive development, and on the thyroid. But many of these presentations received pushback from doctors and dentists at the hearing, who said that they did not present the full picture of what the research actually found. What we've seen today is people cherry-picking studies and making conclusions without presenting us with the complete data that we need, said Dr. Charlotte W. Lewis, a pediatrician and professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine, at the hearing. And that's not what research in this country should be about. Contact us at letters@time.com. HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) President Donald Trump approves federal disaster aid for parts of Indiana and Kentucky. Its for areas hit hard by recent severe storms and flooding. The declaration means money will be available to help communities rebuild, covering costs for emergency work, repairs and temporary housing. Governors from the states requested the aid after powerful storms swept through last month, downing trees, damaging homes and leaving thousands without power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FEMA assistance is now available to both local governments and some individuals, bringing some needed relief to storm survivors across the region. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). At a farm market in St. Petersburg, Florida, on April 14, 2012, SNAP recipients were able to use their Electronic Benefits Transfer cards for food. (Photo by Lance Cheung/USDA) Federal changes to a food assistance program will cost South Dakota $5 million starting next fiscal year, according to the state Bureau of Finance and Management. The situation could be much worse, said state Department of Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff, given that the estimate is significantly lower than costs anticipated in other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump signed the policy changes for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program into law on the Fourth of July as part of broader legislation known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The SNAP provisions include expanded work requirements and requiring some states to match a percentage of benefits. Previously, the federal government covered 100% of the benefit cost. Federal fallout As federal funding and systems dwindle, states are left to decide how and whether to make up the difference. Read the latest > South Dakotas $5 million price tag comes from a shift in some of the programs administrative burden from the federal level to the state, according to state officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Budget impacts in other states include an estimated $133 million in Connecticut and $240 million in Maryland. Those states will be required to match federal SNAP benefits at 15%, while South Dakota wont have any match to pay. Thats because the new law allows states to avoid a match if their SNAP error rate is below 6%. South Dakota has the lowest error rate in the nation at 3.28%. SNAP payment error rates measure how accurately a state determines eligibility and benefit amounts for recipients. Althoff credited the low error rate to his staffs due diligence and focus on accuracy. South Dakotans currently receiving SNAP benefits should not see a change in the level of benefits theyre receiving due to an increase in the states administrative burden, he said. The $5 million cost will impact other parts of the departments budget or the broader state budget, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not squirreling away that money right now, so theres going to be a reduction in services or something else if thats to be achieved, Althoff said. He did not suggest potential cuts. In May the most recent month of available data 37,712 South Dakota households received SNAP benefits, costing the federal government $14.9 million. Of the 75,282 people receiving benefits, 45% were children. Stacey Andernacht, vice president of public relations for Feeding South Dakota, is grateful for Althoffs assurances about the minimal impact to beneficiaries. But she worries that people affected by expanded work requirements for SNAP wont be able to obtain the food they need. The requirements include working or volunteering at least 80 hours a month, unless a person meets exemptions. Feeding South Dakotas Rapid City location on May 30, 2025. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) Nonpartisan policy institute Center for American Progress estimated in June that 14,000 South Dakotans would be at risk of losing some or all SNAP benefits due to expanded work requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Work requirement exemptions were removed for homeless people and veterans, able-bodied people from 55 to 64 years old, people caring for a dependent child older than 13, and people 24 or younger who aged out of foster care at 18. Exemptions were added for tribal members covered by the Indian Health Service. The law did not set a deadline for when the new work requirements will be implemented. Andernacht said she expects the largest impact to be among older adults and adults with teenage children. They may seek help from nonprofits like Feeding South Dakota and other food banks to meet their needs, she said. According to the state Department of Social Services, there were 1,714 able-bodied SNAP recipients between the ages of 55 and 64 as of July 1. Andernacht recommended families continue to use SNAP benefits as normal until federal guidance is released. She said adults who fall within the expanded work requirement categories should be proactive in seeking work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feeding South Dakota reported a $2.5 million budget shortfall in May due to a loss of federal support alongside a 12% increase in demand for mobile food distribution across the state, Andernacht added. Well put roughly the same amount of pounds into the state as last year, but were serving more people every month, Andernacht said. The only way to serve more is to stretch. You either serve more people less food or you serve fewer people and the same amount of food. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Floodwaters left debris, including vehicles and equipment, scattered in Louise Hays Park on July 5 in Kerrville, Texas. Emergency managers say Trumps cuts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service could prove devastating during future disasters. (Photo by Eric Vryn/Getty Images) With hurricane and wildfire season well underway across much of the country, state and local emergency managers say they have little idea how much support the federal government will provide if disaster strikes. And the recent deadly floods in Texas have shown just how dire the need can be. President Donald Trump has imposed severe cuts on the Federal Emergency Management Agency and denied some states requests for disaster recovery funds. FEMA also has failed to issue grants that many emergency managers rely on to fund their agencies or to communicate its plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wyomings Office of Homeland Security, which responds to disasters, relies on the feds for 92% of its money, said Director Lynn Budd. With that federal support in question, the state could face a precarious situation when the current grants expire at the end of September. If we dont get this funding, what are we going to do? Budd said. Youre taking our capability away. Budd serves as president of the National Emergency Management Association, a nonprofit focused on public safety. She said state officials have been told by Trump that theyve become too dependent on federal support. Trump and officials in his administration have repeatedly talked of scaling back FEMA and pushing states to take the lead in disaster response. But in the wake of this months devastating flooding in Texas, administration officials have backed off Trumps claims that he would eliminate the agency altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson did not grant an interview request, but issued a statement calling on states to play a larger role in disaster response. State and local officials say Trump has provided no clarity about which disasters will qualify for federal recovery funds. He has denied support for disasters that met the existing criteria. At the same time, FEMA has yet to issue federal grants that provide much of the funding for local emergency management agencies. As local leaders in rural Saluda County, South Carolina, work to rebuild from last years Hurricane Helene, they say the recovery process has been slowed by Trump administration policies making it more difficult to access disaster aid. Worse, the countys Emergency Management Division has no idea whether the feds will release the grant funding that makes up most of its budget. Are we going to see the help we need arriving? said Josh Morton, director of Saluda Countys Emergency Management Division. I dont know. When we pick up the phone, is there gonna be anybody there to answer? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aside from the cuts to state funding, FEMA under Trumps administration has lost about a quarter of its full-time staff, according to The New York Times. The agency also cut hundreds of contractors at call centers, The Times reported, resulting in thousands of missed calls in the days following the Texas flood. Meanwhile, emergency managers say that Trumps cuts to the National Weather Service could further impair their ability to respond to fast-moving disasters. The feds pull back Trump and his administration have frequently said states should take on more responsibility for responding to disasters. Brian Hughes, a spokesman for the National Security Council, said in an April statement to Stateline that the federal government would provide support only for truly catastrophic disasters, adding that states should have an appetite to own the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency management experts say it would be inefficient for all 50 states to stockpile the resources, staff and recovery funding to handle disasters on their own. Having a national agency that can deploy where its needed is far less wasteful. Theres no reason for every state to have all the resources that FEMA has, said Michael Coen, who served as chief of staff at FEMA during the Obama and Biden administrations. He noted that FEMA also plays a key coordinating role with other federal agencies during disasters. Morton, the Saluda County official, echoed that concern. He also serves as first vice president with the International Association of Emergency Managers, a nonprofit representing professionals in the field. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be impossible for every county in the U.S. to maintain an adequate disaster recovery fund on their own, he said. Right now, we have a disaster fund at the federal level, and that money is able to be moved around to where its needed in the moment. That really is the best bang for the buck for the American people. But that federal support is no longer a sure thing. Morton said recovery funds for Hurricane Helene which walloped states from Florida to North Carolina have been slower to materialize than for previous disasters. FEMA officials have required more paperwork, he said, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noems insistence that she personally approve any expenditure over $100,000 has also slowed the process. Disaster declarations In other parts of the country, state officials have petitioned Trump for disaster declarations, only to be rejected altogether. Washington states request for disaster aid following storms last November that caused at least $34 million in damages met all the very clear criteria to qualify, said Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson, but was denied by FEMA. While Trump administration officials have proposed limiting the events that qualify for federal relief, they have yet to issue new criteria. State leaders say they have gotten no clarity from the feds about whether they can count on support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We really need some communication on what to expect, said Budd, the Wyoming official. If we know theres no federal funding coming, that would be an awful situation, but at least we can plan for that. Some experts say states should prepare for disaster relief to be approved along partisan lines. We just have to be honest that this White House is going to spend more resources, time and effort on people who live in red states than in blue states, said Juliette Kayyem, faculty chair of the Homeland Security Project at Harvard Universitys Kennedy School of Government and a former Obama administration official. Its a hard thing for me to admit, and I dont know how to solve it, but if you look at his reaction to [the Los Angeles wildfires in] California as compared to Texas, its very clear. Since February, Trump has denied six of the 10 major-disaster requests he has received from Democratic governors, according to an analysis from Seattle National Public Radio affiliate KUOW. He has approved 14 of 15 requests he has received from Republican governors during that same period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, FEMA has yet to release the preparedness grants that many state and local governments depend on to fund their emergency management agencies and conduct projects to prepare for disasters. Those grants were set to be issued in May under a spending bill passed by Congress. Coen, the former FEMA official, noted that the Texas Division of Emergency Management received nearly $20 million in federal funding last year to support day-to-day operations. Texas hasnt been able to apply for that grant this year, he said. If they never get that grant, are they going to have to lay off staff or cancel contracts? FEMA has also revoked another set of grants, totaling $3.6 billion, that was intended to help communities prepare their infrastructure to withstand disasters. Weather agency cuts Amid the uncertainty at FEMA, emergency managers are also alarmed by Trumps cuts to the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. NOAA has lost nearly 2,000 employees, The New York Times reported, 600 of whom worked for the weather service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cuts have left many forecasting offices understaffed, with some no longer able to operate overnight. The National Weather Service plays as big of a role in protecting lives as anyone else in government, said Morton, the Saluda County official. It would be very hard for emergency managers to do our jobs effectively without the National Weather Service. But if these cuts keep coming, youre going to start to see deficiencies. Budd, the Wyoming official, said the weather agency is crucial during wildfires. Thats how we know when its time to alert our communities or evacuate an area, she said. You can put firefighters lives on the line very quickly if they dont have notification that those winds are changing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that Trumps cuts to the U.S. Forest Service and other land management agencies have added another layer of concern as wildfires begin cropping up throughout the West. With the loss of federal support, Budd said officials are likely to become increasingly reliant on state-to-state resource-sharing compacts that allow them to call on one another during emergency situations. Stateline reporter Alex Brown can be reached at abrown@stateline.org. 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. PROVIDENCE As a teenager growing up in Cranston, Nicholas Lowinger started a nonprofit organization that provides shoes to children living in homeless shelters. Lowinger realized that having new shoes that fit did more than help children's health, but also boosted their self-esteem. Fifteen years and more than 125,000 pairs of shoes later, Lowinger's organization, Gotta Have Sole, sees an even greater need and is looking to help more children. This week, Gotta Have Sole received a $10,000 grant from the Rhode Island Foundation to help the agency reach that goal. Gotta Have Sole was among the nearly 150 Rhode Island nonprofit agencies receiving a total of $6.1 million in grants, the foundation announced this week. Nicholas Lowinger, founder and executive director of Gotta Have Sole, stands in the organization's Cranston warehouse with some of the thousands of shoes the nonprofit distributes to children living at homeless shelters. The grants were awarded to organizations that help Rhode Islanders with health care, housing, hunger and "other crucial needs," the foundation said in a news release. Many of the agencies have been hurt by cuts in federal funding Some $2 million in grants were earmarked for organizations that have lost or are facing the loss of funding from the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What is happening in D.C. has a real impact on the work of our nonprofit partners, and most importantly, the thousands of people they serve every day. Rhode Islanders are facing empty shelves at food pantries, job cuts, small business assistance drying up, Head Start programs going dark and children going hungry, said David N. Cicilline, the Rhode Island Foundations president and CEO. According to the foundation, the nonprofits that applied for those grants report losing or potentially losing millions of dollars in federal funding to support their work in health care, housing, hunger relief, job training and more. Nearly 90% said they have or would have to cut services to Rhode Island residents. In addition to Gotta Have Sole, organizations that received grants include: The Rhode Island Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs The North Kingstown Food Pantry Child and Family Services of Newport County Climate Action Rhode Island 350 The Olneyville Neighborhood Association The Jonnycake Center of Westerly The Tomaquag Museum in Exeter The Valley Affordable Housing Corp. in Cumberland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a full list of grant recipients, visit rifoundation.org. After-school care, filling the shelves at a food bank and so much more The North Kingstown Food Pantry received $5,000 to restock its shelves. The food pantry is typically open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. The pantry also offers a monthly program for senior citizens and North Kingstown schoolchildren who qualify for free and reduced-price meals at school. Kimberly Page, the organizations president, said, "We are always seeking additional opportunities to reach out to those with food insecurity through the schools, the North Kingstown Senior Center, Kingstown Crossing, newspapers, libraries, the internet and other agencies." The RI Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs received $100,000 to support its Power Hour homework and academic support programs at the East Providence, Newport, Northern Rhode Island, Pawtucket, Providence and Warwick clubs. Boys & Girls Clubs of Warwick teacher Christine Hardin works with a group of youngsters on a reading comprehension assignment. The RI Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs received a $100,000 grant from the Rhode Island Foundation to support learning activities at its clubs. The after-school program provides homework help, tutoring and other learning activities for boys and girls ages 5 to 18. Last year, the program served 1,440 young people, according to the alliance. This year, it expects to serve close to 2,000, according to Erin Gilliatt, executive director of the East Providence Boys & Girls Clubs, who also leads the alliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boys & Girls clubs do more than offer children the opportunity to play sports, according to Gilliatt, who said,By providing targeted academic support after school, Power Hour extends the reach of Rhode Islands education system, ensuring students stay engaged, confident and on track for graduation. "We couldn't be more excited," Gilliatt said. "Thanks to the Rhode Island Foundation for stepping up." Rhode Island Foundation's grants can be life-changing Cicilline said the grants mark the first major round of funding the foundation has awarded in alignment with its new five-year action plan. He said, "More than 2,000 community members contributed to the creation of the plan, which focuses our work on crucial community priorities like housing and economic mobility, healthy and strong communities, and education and student success." Lowinger, the founder of Gotta Have Sole, says homelessness has been "skyrocketing" since the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He calls it a bittersweet moment when his organization gives a homeless child a new pair of shoes. He knows the new shoes could protect the child from bullying and help their self-esteem. Homelessness puts children at greater risk for chronic health issues, social isolation, and educational disruptions. Unlike used shoe donations, our model ensures children receive high-quality, properly fitting footwear, which fosters dignity, confidence and belonging," Lowinger said. Gotta Have Sole will use the $10,000 to build the capacity of its board of directors and bring the organization to "the next level," according to Lowinger, who is also the organization's executive director. That should help Gotta Have Sole be more effective, he said. For example, it could build more partnerships with companies willing to donate shoes. "There's so much need," he said, "and we do our best to make an impact." This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: $6.1M in RI Foundation grants to bolster health,housing, and hunger relief HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) The Department of Education announced Friday that over $1billion of the frozen $6 billion in federal funding for school programs will be released. The Trump Administration announced it was investigating several school programs for bias before distributing more than $6 billion in grant money already appropriated by Congress and signed by President Trump earlier this year. Saying goodbye to summer with a back to school block party Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement sparked a strong national response. A coalition of 24 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the administration, saying the funding freeze is contrary to law, arbitrary and capricious, and unconstitutional. 32 Senate Democrats and more than 100 House Democrats wrote their letters to the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Education urging officials to disperse the funds following Congresss allocation. The announcement regarding the release of $1.3 billion in funding came after a letter was written by 10 Senate Republicans, including Alabamas Senator Katie Britt. In the letter, the senators detailed the need for the funding. In a statement to News 19, Senator Britt said she is happy to see the funding released to better serve schools. Im pleased to see these funds released to support after-school and summer programs. This was in direct response to a letter I joined in support for this critical funding. I appreciate President Trump and OMB Director Vought responding to our request to ensure our local communities can continue to serve students and families. Senator Katie Britt Get breaking news, traffic and weather alerts directly to your smartphone. Download the News 19 App The investigation of school programs is focused upon Title programs, including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Title I-C: Migrant Education Title II-A: Professional Development Title III-A: English learners Title IV-A: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Title IV-B: 21st Century Community Learning Centers The $1.3 billion released Friday is only dedicated to 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which are typically nonprofit organizations not directly associated with a school system. So, what does the freeze mean for these other Title programs at school systems like Huntsville City Schools, where Title II-A and Title III-A programs are implemented? School Board President Carlos Mathews said they have around $1.5 million for those programs, which is held in the frozen funding. He said the school district has enough money reserved to cover the costs of Title II and Title III programming if necessary, noting the importance of the two practices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not everybody in the city schools speaks English as their first language, so we want to make sure that were able to take care of all of our student population, Mathews said. Alabama leaders react to SNAP changes And when it comes to schools statewide? State Superintendent Eric Mackey said he is hopeful more funding will be released following the initial $1.3 billion to properly serve schools across Alabama. In a statement to News 19, he said: We are encouraged that the U.S. Department of Education has released a portion of the previously frozen federal funding, specifically the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant funding. These dollars are vital to supporting after-school and summer learning programs that help thousands of Alabama students succeed. We remain hopeful that the rest of the funding will be forthcoming. These resources are needed so that schools across Alabama can continue providing academic support and professional development. Dr. Eric Mackey, State Superintendent It is unclear if or when the remaining $5 billion in frozen funds would be 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 WHNT.com. Washington A federal judge in Florida has denied the Justice Department's request to unseal grand jury material stemming from investigations in 2005 and 2007 into the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Judge Robin Rosenberg, a federal judge with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, wrote in an order on Wednesday that "the court's hands are tied," given precedents about grand jury secrecy established by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, which includes southern Florida. She noted that the government conceded that she was bound by the 11th Circuit's decisions. Last week, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Justice Department lawyers asked several federal courts to unseal grand jury transcripts in cases involving Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, his longtime partner who is serving a 20-year prison sentence on sex trafficking charges. Epstein was convicted on state prostitution charges in 2008, and faced federal sex trafficking charges in 2019. He died in federal custody weeks later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesday's ruling only applies to transcripts of proceedings by federal grand juries that were convened in West Palm Beach in 2005 and 2007. Separate grand juries in New York indicted Epstein in 2019, and Maxwell in 2020. The judges who oversaw those cases are still weighing the administration's request to unseal proceedings, and have asked the government, victims and defense teams for more information before issuing rulings. The New York federal court is bound by different circuit court precedent, meaning judges there could ultimately pave the way for more information to be released. It's not yet clear if the Trump administration will appeal the Florida court's decision. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters Wednesday afternoon she will "let this president speak to whether he wants to see an appeal." Pressure has been mounting on the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress to provide more transparency in the Epstein case, even as President Trump has said he doesn't understand why so many of his supporters are interested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Details on Trump's executive orders on artificial intelligence President Trumps recent bid to quell outrage over his administrations perceived lack of transparency about the late sex criminal (and the presidents onetime friend) Jeffrey Epstein has hit a stumbling block. Trump over the weekend requested that grand jury transcripts related to United States v. Epstein be unsealeda seeming sop to his angry supporters that falls far short of the release of all Epstein-related Justice Department files, which many are demanding. But on Wednesday, a federal judge in Florida denied the DOJs request. In a 12-page opinion, Judge Robin L. Rosenberg wrote that the Courts hands are tied, as Trumps DOJ failed to argue that its request fell under an exception to the general rule of secrecy governing grand jury materials, instead invalidly claiming special circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration even acknowledged that its petition wouldnt pass muster, Rosenberg wrote, as the DOJ conceded that the court couldnt flout existing precedent regarding grand jury materials. So, Rosenberg ruled, consistent with [that precedent] and the Governments concessions, the request to disclose is denied. The Justice Department has filed two other requests for Epstein grand jury testimony, both in New York. While those are still pending, the Florida decision is bad news for the president, whos surely hoping for as swift an end as possible to MAGAs fury over the Epstein story. GE Vernova has announced the acquisition of French software company Alteia, which offers AI-driven visual intelligence to enhance electric grid management. In a statement issued on 21 July 2025, the power equipment maker stated that the deal will enhance its ability to provide utilities with visual data solutions, which offer situational intelligence and actionable insights. Financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, with completion anticipated on 1 August 2025. GE Vernova's GridOS suite, part of its electrification software division, equips utilities to manage and maintain power grid stability amid disruptive events such as storms and wildfires. The company already provides Alteias software via GridOS Visual Intelligence, which uses AI and visual data to help utilities monitor electric grids, assess damage and inspect assets across extensive power lines. GE Vernova cites multiple benefits from purchasing Alteia, which uses AI, computer vision and machine learning to analyse visual data. The deal enhances AI-powered visual data integration with operational systems, improving grid visibility, damage assessment and asset inspection to boost situational awareness, reduce risks and speed up grid restoration. GE Vernova electrification software business CEO Scott Reese stated: With this acquisition, we are excited to increase our investment in a critical element of our GridOS offering. Together with the Alteia team, whose expertise will help to advance our AI and data-centric vision for GridOS, GE Vernova will be able to solve for critical pain points that our utility customers face every day and help them use visual data and AI in an actionable way to prevent disruptions or restore power quickly. This acquisition aims to solidify further our position as a data and AI leader in grid orchestration software and pave the way for additional use cases that could enhance the visual precision needed for modern grid operations. Alteia CEO Michael de Lagarde stated: We started Alteia with the mission to simplify visual data integration and analysis for utilities, a vision that aligns perfectly with GE Vernovas GridOS portfolio. This acquisition is more than just a strategic step - it enhances our ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions to our clients while accelerating our AI roadmap for smarter, more efficient infrastructure operations. In July 2025, GE Vernova was awarded a contract by TransnetBW to upgrade the Kuhmoos substation in southern Germany. The initiative aims to enhance frequency control, ensure voltage reliability and improve electrical power transfer between Germany, France and Switzerland. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Governor Andy Beshear announced that President Donald Trump has approved Public Assistance for many counties affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides on April 2, and even more counties affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on May 16 through 17. Some of those counties are in the Eyewitness News coverage area. Great news the President has approved the Public Assistance weve been waiting on for the communities affected by severe weather in April and May, said Gov. Beshear. We never gave up hope and are excited that these counties and communities are going to see the support they need and deserve. Officials say President Trump reached out to Gov. Beshear by phone personally to let him know about the funding approved for Public Assistance. Gov. Beshear thanked President Trump and told him how well the FEMA teams were conducting operations in Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citizens Action Coalition condemns severe electric bill increases throughout Indiana The counties that have been designated for Public Assistance for the April flooding are: Hancock Henderson Hopkins McLean Muhlenberg Union Webster The county in the Eyewitness News coverage area that has been designated for Public Assistance for the May tornadoes is Union County. Officials say the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund was established after the severe weather in February and will serve survivors of that and additional natural disasters. As with previous relief funds, these dollars will first help pay for victims funeral expenses. People can donate here. Advertisement 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). Grain Belt Express is expected to run from southwest Kansas carrying renewable energy through Missouri and Illinois before ending at the Indiana border (Robert Zullo/States Newsroom). The U.S. Department of Energy announced Wednesday it was cancelling a conditional $4.9 billion loan for the Grain Belt Express, a planned transmission line designed to transport electricity generated by wind farms in Kansas across four states, including Missouri. The loan, which was issued by the Biden administration in November 2024, is being cancelled because it is not critical for the federal government to have a role in supporting this project, the department said in a news release announcing the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What this means for the future of the project is unclear, though a spokesman for the company behind the transmission line, Illinois-based Invergy, sounded a positive tone. America is energy dominant and an AI powerhouse, and Grain Belt Express will be Americas largest power pipeline, Martin Grego, the projects spokesman, said in an emailed statement, adding that while the company is disappointed in the decision of the energy department, a privately financed Grain Belt Express transmission superhighway will advance President Trumps agenda of American energy and technology dominance while delivering billions of dollars in energy cost savings, strengthening grid reliability and resiliency, and creating thousands of American jobs. News of the cancelled loan was celebrated by Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, who for years has criticized the project. The Grain Belt Express boondoggle loan has been cancelled, Hawley wrote on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawley previously claimed he secured a pledge from U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright that he would be putting a stop to the Grain Belt Express green scam. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In the works for more than a decade, Grain Belt Express is expected to run from southwest Kansas carrying renewable energy through Missouri and Illinois before ending at the Indiana border. When it approved the project, the Missouri Public Service Commission found that Grain Belt would save Missourians $17 billion in lower electric bills. But to complete the project, the line needs to cross thousands of properties and requires easements on landowners properties across three states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Invenergy says it has obtained the vast majority of those easements through voluntary negotiations with landowners. For the rest, the project was granted the right of eminent domain, a legal mechanism that allows utilities and governments to take land or easements from unwilling landowners and compensate them. Grain Belts ability to use eminent domain has drawn the ire of Republican lawmakers and farm groups who fought to undermine the project at the Missouri General Assembly for years. This is a huge win for Missouri landowners and taxpayers who should not have to fund these green energy scams, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey posted on social media. Invergy previously responded to Hawleys criticism of the project with a post on social media calling the senators public comments bizarre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senator Hawley is attempting to kill the largest transmission infrastructure project in U.S. history, which is already approved by all four states and is aligned with the presidents energy dominance agenda, the company wrote earlier this month. Senator Hawley is trying to deprive Americans of billions of dollars in energy cost savings, thousands of jobs, and grid reliability and national security, all in an era of exponentially growing electricity demand. The company also wrote a letter this month to Wright pleading its case and criticizing both Hawley and Bailey. President Trumps infrastructure agenda and your leadership are making America energy dominant, secure, and prosperous, Jim Shield, vice president of Grain Belt Express LLC, wrote in the letter. Unfortunately, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey are declaring open season on Americas ability to build needed energy infrastructure. Gretchen Waddell-Barwick, director of the Sierra Club Missouri Chapter, panned the decision to undermine the shovel-ready Grain Belt Express transmission project that would quickly strengthen grid reliability and resilience, create jobs during construction, and lower electricity costs for small towns throughout Kansas and Missouri. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawley doesnt seem to care, Waddell-Barwick said, that the company played by the rules, received multiple state approvals and withstood legal challenges. This reeks of desperation to satisfy political interests, Waddell-Barwick said, at the expense of Missouri families and businesses throughout the state that may have to pay higher electric rates because of this decision. This story was updated at 3:45 p.m. with a statement from Grain Belt Express spokesman Martin Grego. The federal government plans to spend $1.26 billion to build the country's largest immigration detention center at Fort Bliss, an army base in El Paso, according to a contract announced in July. The U.S. Department of Defense announced that Virginia-based company Acquisition Logistics LLC was given nearly $232 million up front to build and run the 5,000-bed tent camp. The federal agency said work on the facility is expected to be completed by September 2027. According to the ACLU, the Trump administration started to detain people there on Aug. 17. The contract is one of the biggest for Acquisition Logistics, according to Bloomberg, which first reported the contract. But the company does not appear to have experience running detention centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using tents in the sprawling West Texas to detain migrants has been a long-time concern for immigrant rights activists because of scorching desert heat. The Trump Administration has promised to carry out the largest deportation program of criminals in the history of America by arresting more than 1 million immigrants a year. It has set an aggressive goal of arresting 3,000 people a day. Now, the administration is faced with the task of creating more detention space for the people theyre arresting. That effort already has brought allegations of unsafe conditions by watchdog groups. The nonprofit Human Rights Watch claimed it found abusive practices at three detention centers in Florida in a report released earlier this year. It found that some people were shackled for prolonged periods on buses without food, water, or functioning toilets. Detaineers were also being forced to sleep on cold concrete floors under constant fluorescent lighting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this summer, the administration opened a tent facility in a Florida swamp dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, which has already drawn criticism about detainees' health. In Texas, during Trumps first administration, the government built a sprawling tent city to house detained migrants at Tornillo, a border town in El Paso County just 40 miles southeast of Fort Bliss. It became a focus of criticism after it opened in 2018 with capacity to house around 2,500 people, including women and children. The lineup for The Texas Tribune Festival continues to grow! Be there when all-star leaders, innovators and newsmakers take the stage in downtown Austin, Nov. 1315. The newest additions include comedian, actor and writer John Mulaney; Dallas mayor Eric Johnson; U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota; New York Media Editor-at-Large Kara Swisher; and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso. Get your tickets today! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. Prosecutors dropped felony charges Wednesday against two journalists arrested at a protest that originated in Cincinnati over the detention of an Egyptian man by immigration authorities. The District Court judge agreed to dismiss with prejudice the felony rioting charges against reporter Madeline Fening and photography intern Lucas Griffith of Citybeat Cincinnati. The two were among at least 13 people arrested Thursday in a demonstration that blocked the Roebling Bridge, which carries traffic over the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Kentucky. Police in Covington, Kentucky, said those who were arrested refused to disperse and threatened officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The journalists and others also face misdemeanor charges that include failing to disperse, obstructing emergency responders, criminal mischief and disorderly conduct. The demonstration was staged in support of Ayman Soliman, an Egyptian immigrant who worked as a chaplain at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital. He was detained last week after he showed up for a routine check-in with ICE officials at their office near Cincinnati. Protesters met in downtown Cincinnati and then walked across the bridge carrying a banner that read, Build Bridges Not Walls. The ACLU of Kentucky, which represented the journalists, said they should never have been arrested. A free press is critical to a functioning democracy, and those members of the press who, like our clients, merely cover a story enjoy the full protection of the U.S. and Kentucky constitutions to do so, staff attorney William Sharp said in a statement. We look forward to zealously defending them in court. AUSTIN (KXAN) Austin Police received arrest warrants from a Travis County Judge for two men it accused of illegally installing credit card skimmer devices at self-checkout registers in a north Austin Walmart. According to two affidavits connected to the case, the warrants accuse Nicu Mihai, 28, and Ovidiu Simion Oprea, 38, for unlawful interception, use, or disclosure of wire, oral, or electronic communications, which is a second-degree felony. Mihai and Oprea allegedly installed credit card skimmer devices at two self-checkout registers at the Walmart located at 2525 W Anderson Ln. in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the affidavits, a credit card overlay skimmer, commonly referred to as a card skimmer, is a criminal devic manufactured by suspects for the sole purpose of illegally capturing victim card/account data. Can you spot a credit card skimmer? What to look for Card skimmers are most frequently placed on point-of-sale terminals at gas pumps, retail checkout lines, in ATM or ITMs, or in any other point-of-sale system that requires a customer to insert or swipe their card to complete a transaction, according to the affidavits. Depending on the type of skimmer and payment terminal, suspects can capture victims card number, personal identification numbers (PIN), fleet driver codes, or zip codes from the magnetic stripe of payment cards, the affidavits noted. Walmart issued the following statement: Walmart works hard to keep our customers safe from scammers and other criminals seeking to harm our customers. Walmarts robust anti-fraud program has been effective at fighting fraud and continuously evolves to respond to the fraudsters ever-changing tactics. Kelly Hellbusch Global Communications | Corporate Affairs for Walmart On March 13, around 3:12 p.m., Austin emergency communication services received a call from someone at the Walmart reporting that two skimmer devices had been found. Austin Police Department officers arrived at the scene about 30 minutes later, the affidavits said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the affidavits, a Walmart loss prevention agent told APD that a customer found one of the card skimmers and reported it, and the loss prevention agent found another. The agent provided APD with surveillance footage of the suspects placing the devices the night before, on March 12, around 8 p.m. Texas center found 35 card skimmers at Austin-area gas stations in 2023 Three suspects were involved in placing the skimmer devices, according to the affidavits. Their descriptions are below: Suspect 1: White male, medium build, brown full beard, black jacket, peach colored shirt and shorts, black and white shoes. Suspect 2: White male, thin build, light brown beard, white Vineyard Vines hat, black jacket, black Guess shirt with gold vertical stripe, jean shorts with tears and patches. Suspect 3: White male, large build, scruffy beard, neck-length hair, wearing a white hooded sweatshirt, light blue shorts, and a light blue hat with DUBS on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the affidavits, the video surveillance footage showed Suspects 1 and 2 enter the store together, and Suspect 3 entered alone. Suspects 1 and 2 went to the self-checkout area together and approached a register, where Suspect 2 placed a skimmer device while Suspect 1 scanned and checked out items to provide further distraction from Suspect 2s actions, the affidavits said. 2 Romanian citizens arrested in Texas credit card skimming operation Suspect 3 went to a different register and placed a skimmer on that one, then completed a transaction to avoid being observed, the affidavits said. Suspect 2 went to assist Suspect 3 and pushed the skimmer onto the register to secure fit and conceal its presence, according to the affidavits. APD alleges that Suspect 2 was Ovidiu Simion Oprea, and Suspect 3 was Nicu Mihai, according to the affidavits. Suspect 1 was not identified, and its not clear if he will also face charges, but KXAN reached out to APD for more information. This story will be updated if we receive a response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oprea and Mihai each face one count of unlawful interception, use, or disclosure of wire, oral, or electronic communications, a second-degree felony. In Texas, an individual found guilty of a second-degree felony could face two to 20 years in prison and may be required to pay a fine of up to $10,000, according to the Texas Penal Code. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. The acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency is pushing back on criticisms of the federal response to the central Texas floods that killed at least 136 people earlier this month. I can't see anything we did wrong, David Richardson told a House panel of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on Wednesday. He called the relationship between state and federal agencies a model for how disasters should be handled. Lawmakers used the hearing about improvements to FEMA disaster response to address reports that FEMA support was impaired by bureaucratic delays that slowed the deployment of urban search and rescue teams and left the agency's call centers unstaffed, which Richardson denied. The response "brought the maximum amount of capability to bear in Texas at the right time and the right place, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richardson's appearance came after a wave of criticism and fallout over the response, including the resignation Monday of FEMA's urban search and rescue leader. President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have touted the robust federal support for Texas despite their past support for eliminating FEMA. Reports of delays on the ground denied The acting administrator denied reports that FEMA urban search-and-rescue teams were delayed over 72 hours because of a new rule imposed by Noem that she must personally approve any contract of $100,000 or more. Richardson said a Texas-based FEMA task force was on the ground on July 4, along with other Homeland Security assets like the Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection, and that additional support came within 24 hours of being requested. Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., pushed back on FEMA's readiness, asking why more of the 28 FEMA urban search-and-rescue teams located around the country were not on standby ahead of receiving a request from the state of Texas. It haunts me that we could have had more urban search and rescue pre-positioned in place, said Stanton. That was a choice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The leader of FEMA's urban search-and-rescue effort, Ken Pagurek, expressed frustration with the delays to colleagues before resigning Monday, according to CNN. In response to Pagurek's resignation, a DHS spokesperson told The Associated Press, It is laughable that a career public employee, who claims to serve the American people, would choose to resign over our refusal to hastily approve a six-figure deployment contract without basic financial oversight." The Texas Division of Emergency Management did not respond to a request for comment on whether search-and-rescue efforts were impacted by delayed deployment of the FEMA teams. Richardson also denied a report from The New York Times that 84% of calls to FEMA went unanswered on July 7, three days after the July 4 floods, because Noem let lapse contract renewals with outside call centers. The contracts were renewed July 10, according to The Times. The vast majority of phone calls were answered. There was never a lapse in the contract, said Richardson, echoing Noem's statements that the report was fake news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richardson defended his absence from the ground efforts in Texas, saying he worked from Washington, D.C., to kick down the doors of bureaucracy and denying suggestions that Donald Trump or Noem told him to stand down. He did not visit Texas until July 12. FEMA's fate is still in question Since the Texas floods, Trump has deflected questions about FEMAs fate. In June, he said he wanted to begin phasing out FEMA after the hurricane season to wean off of FEMA and bring it to the state level. Trump has been criticized for delaying decisions on disaster declaration requests, causing some states to wait as long as two months for approval to receive assistance to repair public infrastructure or help survivors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers pressed Richardson on more general issues of FEMA reform as well, including concerns over long overdue preparedness grant funding, flood insurance and rules about how much financial assistance survivors can receive. Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers asked about the fate of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program, which Trump canceled earlier this year. The grants supplied hundreds of millions of dollars in disaster mitigation funding. Twenty states are now suing the administration over the loss of funds. On Tuesday, Trump approved disaster declaration requests for Michigan, Oregon, Indiana, Kansas, West Virginia, Missouri and New Mexico and expanded assistance in Kentucky. Rep. Bob Onder, R-Mo., asked Richardson why it took a month for his state to get a disaster declaration. My constituents were frustrated by how long it takes to get temporary housing and debris removal assistance," Onder said. Richardson referred back to Texas' declaration request: We turned that around within just a couple hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Trump-appointed FEMA review council is in the process of crafting recommendations to the president on changes to the agency. Noem, who co-chairs the council, told its members five days after the Texas floods that FEMA needs to be eliminated as it exists today and remade as a responsive agency. Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Wash., said he and Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo., would introduce the bipartisan Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act this week, which would make FEMA an independent, Cabinet-level agency, incentivize states to prioritize resilience and improve aid for survivors. We dont need to wait for a FEMA review council," said Larsen. Weve been reviewing FEMA for a long time. David Richardson, acting leader of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), on Wednesday defended his agencys response to deadly Texas floods despite pushback from lawmakers. During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing, Richardson said he cant see anything FEMA did wrong in its response to the July 4 floods that killed 135 people. His comments come despite bipartisan criticism and news reports suggesting the agency was slow to act and that the Trump administrations austere policies delayed response times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A particular point of contention in the hearing was a New York Times report that said call center contractors were laid off after their contracts ended July 5. On July 6, FEMA answered only 35.8 percent of calls, according to the Times, while on July 7, it answered only 15.9 percent. Richardson called the report fake news and said the vast majority of phone calls were answered. The article, one of several that raised questions about the Trump administrations response to the Texas floods, pointed to a new policy that reportedly requires Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem herself to approve expenses more than $100,000. CNN reported Noem didnt authorize FEMAs urban search and rescue teams until three days after the flooding began. Meanwhile, Richardson did not visit the site of the floods in the days that followed it, according to E&E News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told lawmakers Wednesday there had been an urban search and rescue team on the deck in Texas on July 4 but that it took the state several days to request assistance. The disaster declaration didnt come in until Sunday, and then Monday they requested and the support was there within 24 hours. Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) responded that 24 hours seems like a long time to wait and asked whether that was standard. They get there as quickly as possible, Richardson responded, adding that those particular teams came from Colorado and Missouri. He said that on July 4, he was on vacation, but he returned the next day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I spent the entire vacation in my vehicle speaking on my phone either to the state of Texas or [the Department of Homeland Security] coordinating for the events in Texas, he said. Overall, Richardson described the agencys response to the Texas flooding as a model of how response should be done. Michael Coen, FEMAs chief of staff during the Obama and Biden administrations, disagreed. The FEMA administrator should have been there as the face of the federal government coordinating immediately after the event, Coen said. The criticism of FEMA comes as the broader agency may be in the administrations crosshairs. President Trump and Noem have floated eliminating the agency, though in recent weeks, their rhetoric has moved more toward reform rather than absolute abolition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration fired Richardsons predecessor Cameron Hamilton after he appeared before Congress in May and said eliminating FEMA is not in the best interest of the American people. Asked during the hearing Wednesday whether FEMA will continue to exist, Richardson did not give a direct answer. What I can commit to is that the president wants a better emergency management for the American people, he said. Does that mean FEMA is gone and there will be something new and different? Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) followed up. Richardson pointed to the creation of the FEMA review council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So the answer is blowing in the wind, Garamendi replied. We do not know, and you cannot confirm that it is the policy of the administration to maintain FEMA. Richardsons opening statement, however, described an effort that narrowed FEMAs focus. In particular, he said the agency should keep people safe, allow states to take the lead and strengthen the ability of states, local governments, tribes and territories to respond. He was similarly evasive when asked whether he agrees with the scientific consensus that climate change is primarily driven by human activity and fossil fuel use. We will address disasters regardless of their origin, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked a follow-up by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) about whether the frequency and severity of U.S. disasters were increasing, Richardson said, What I believe is regardless of whether theyre increasing or not, that FEMA is there to assist the American public in disaster response and recovery. During the hearing, Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) previewed forthcoming bipartisan legislation that would make changes to FEMA. Our bill will restore FEMA to being an independent, cabinet level agency, create a new public assistance program that gives incentives to states to prioritize resilience and rebuild quickly, improve FEMAs individual assistance program for disaster survivors by creating a universal application for federal assistance and restructure FEMAs mitigation programs to make funding accessible with greater speed and reliability, he said. Updated at 3:58 p.m. EDT Advertisement 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. Germany-based data software company Makersite has raised 60m in a Series B funding round co-led by Lightrock and Partech, with participation from SE Ventures. Existing Series A investors, including Hitachi Ventures, KOMPAS VC, Translink Capital, and Planet A, also contributed to the round. Makersite specialises in developing product data management tools tailored for the global manufacturing industry. It will use the new funding to improve customer offerings, scale its technology and expand workforce to meet the increasing demand from manufacturers. Makersite founder and CEO Neil DSouza said: This investment marks a critical milestone in our mission to make sustainable product design the default. Securing this level of commitmentespecially in todays uncertain economic and geopolitical environmentdemonstrates the strength of our business case and the urgency of our mission. The funding will allow us to accelerate platform development, deepen integration with our technology partners, and scale our impact globally. Makersite's AI-powered platform assists manufacturers in gaining insights into their supply chains by refining product data. The platform processes fragmented and inconsistent customer data, utilising AI to clean, connect, and organise it to combine it with Makersites data foundation. This includes information on material and component manufacturing, costs, environmental impacts, and regulatory statuses. The platform offers tools and system integrations that support cross-functional teams in real-time analysis of design and procurement choices. It also aids in performance reporting, enabling customers to communicate key metrics such as costs, carbon emissions, product compliance, and risks to stakeholders. Makersites team includes more than 150 employees. According to a company statement, it supports companies such as Microsoft, Daikin, Cummins, Barco, and Schneider Electric in designing safer and more sustainable products. Lightrock partner Chris Steinau said: Our commitment to Makersite reflects our strong confidence in their vision and their unique approachtreating sustainability as a balanced trade-off between cost, safety, and environmental performance, rather than simply a green checkbox. Makersites outstanding technology and clear market traction position them as a future leader in helping manufacturers navigate todays complex challenges and deliver real, measurable impact. The company raised $18m in the previous funding round. "German data software company Makersite secures 60m in Series B" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, said Wednesday that it will keep its Disaster Outreach Center open through Friday. The center opened July 16, 11 days after floods killed at least 10 Travis County residents. MAP: Where have flash flooding deaths been confirmed in Texas? Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the facility to assist residents with applications for FEMA disaster relief funds or SBA disaster loans. Round Mountain Baptist Church in Leander, Texas, was used as a FEMA Disaster Outreach Center and emergency supply distribution point following severe July floods in Central Texas. (KXAN photo/Todd Bailey) The center is at the Round Mountain Baptist Church, 14500 Round Mountain Road, in Leander, Texas. Its hours are 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. daily. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Fentanyl is a leading cause of overdose deaths in South Carolina, and state leaders are supporting the newly signed HALT Fentanyl Law, which they say will reduce Fentanyl traffic across the country. The motto is simple. One pill can kill. However, consequences can be fatal if drugs are taken without knowing the original source. President Donald Trump recently signed the HALT Fentanyl Act. Its part of a large push to stop the influx of the opioid, while strengthening law enforcements ability to arrest and prosecute drug traffickers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law classifies all fentanyl-related substances as a schedule 1 controlled substance. Meaning any drug containing fentanyl is now under the same federal crime statute. A loophole Attorney General Alan Wilson says can no longer be exploited. Obviously, it would be illegal to traffic fentanyl, Wilson said. So traffickers would change a molecule or change just a little bit of fentanyl and create a fentanyl analogue or something that was slightly different from fentanyl, but fentanyl related. And, then the law would not apply to them, so we were always playing cat and mouse. Its similar to a bill Governor Henry McMaster signed into law in July. Its called the Fentanyl Induced Homicide Bill, and gives law enforcement the ability to charge someone who knowingly distributes fentanyl with felony homicide. We dont have to prove that you knew that the person would die, Wilson said. Just that you knew fentanyl was in the drug. That kind of lowers that standard for us to go after these folks very vigorously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drug overdose deaths are down over the past year in South Carolina. It mirrors the national trend, which was down around 27%. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. TULSA, Okla. (KFOR) A dog in Tulsa was fighting for her life and now gets to go home for the first time. She was found in a dumpster nearly two weeks ago, barely alive. You may have seen the social media videos circulating of Fern. Ashley Dwyer with the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals got a call about Fern, the Pitbull, in a dumpster. When Dwyer went to look at Fern, her heart stopped. She was so lifeless she could not even move anything except her eyes. She was her body. Score was at like a zero, like she was so emaciated and dehydrated. It was just. It was the worst thing Ive ever seen. Ever, said Ashley Dwyer, with the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to keep your furry friends safe from heat stroke Fern was left with the trash until Dwyer brought her to the Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists team. She had no fat reserves, severely dehydrated. So when she came in, her vitals were extremely critical. She had low blood pressure and, low heart rate. Her body temperature is low, said Dr. Steven Hodges, the Internal Medicine Specialist at Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists. For nearly two weeks, Fern has gotten stronger and hasnt given up. Its why they call her Fern the Fighter. Please note that some of the images below may be disturbing to view. Fern in the dumpster when she was first found. Courtesy: Oklahoma Alliance for Animals Fern is on the road to recovery. Courtesy: Oklahoma Alliance for Animals First, she could sit up on her own, you know, first she could kind of move her head and wag her tail, and then she could sit up on her own, and then they would start to help her walk. And then, you know, after about four days, she was actually able to walk on her own, said Dwyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just skin and bones, Fern, with her blue grey puppy dog eyes, has a second chance at life; something she may not have if she had stayed in the dumpster. When I picked her up, she was lifeless. Like she just flung over my shoulder, like she could not move at all. And when I was driving her there, I just kept talking to her, and I thought at one point she died, like I thought, oh my god, shes dead, said Dwyer. But that didnt happen to Fern. Instead, she gained a family and finally got to go home. It doesnt matter if youre a news reporter, if youre a veterinarian, if youre a police officer, if youre a school teacher, youve got an opportunity out there to make a difference. Im just really fortunate that our team has been able to share that, said Dr. Hodges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fern has a long way to go before shes 100% healthy again, but the doctors said shes doing a lot better. Theyre also still working to find out how long she was in the dumpster in the first place. If you want to help in her recovery or help other dogs like Fern, the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals has a link here to the wish list. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jul. 22By Erin Adler, Star Tribune (TNS) Some college students are waiting to find out whether their grant will decrease this fall after the Legislature plugged a $239 million hole in the budget of Minnesota's largest financial aid program. Lawmakers took on the deficit in the Minnesota State Grant's budget during the special session last month. They boosted the program's funding by $44.5 million over the next two years while also making a series of cuts to the program, which provides funding to low and middle-income students attending any Minnesota college. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the program's deficit was addressed by changing the formula of who qualifies for the grant and how much they will receive, which is based on variables like income and family size. The Legislature also made trims to some higher education programs and added funding to others. Fewer students overall will get the State Grant than would have qualified under previous calculations, officials said. But the Office of Higher Education and other sources said it's too soon to tell how altering qualifications will affect the average student's grant. Legislators, students and higher education officials said they were grateful the program survived a rocky session filled with compromises and cuts. "This was a huge concern for so many people who are in the college-access space, especially supporting low-income students," said BG Tucker, executive director of College Possible, a national nonprofit that helps students attend college. "The fact that they were able to address [the deficit] is really, really wonderful." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some 71,000 Minnesota students received the State Grant last year. Grants will range from $100 to $17,717 for the 2025-2026 school year. Sen. Zach Duckworth, R-Lakeville, said higher education was one of only a few areas in the budget that saw a funding increase. The Legislature was trying to meet as many needs as possible, ensuring "everybody still gets something; it's just a little bit less." "I don't think anybody was entirely happy with the end results, but the fact that we were able to increase some funding [to the State Grant overall] for students and families was a good thing," he said. Some changes are temporary and will be revisited, Duckworth said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last summer, the State Grant program weathered last-minute cuts to students' awards due to a $40 million funding deficit. Average grants were reduced by $175 to $730, depending on students' family size, income and other factors. Paul Cerkvenik, president of the Minnesota Private College Council, said the Legislature made a "really significant investment" and noted that it was the second-largest funding increase in the grant's history. But he hopes to see the State Grant formula return to how it was in previous years. "The State Grant program only works the way it's intended if all the students' actual costs are taken into account ... and if the family expectation [for college costs] is realistic for the family," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legislators in June made a number of changes to the complex formula of who qualifies for the State Grant and how much they get. Awards are based on each student's tuition and fees along with other college costs, called "living and miscellaneous expenses." The most significant alterations included: Tucker noted that more low-income students in Minnesota are attending college over time, which she said is a good problem to have. She said a student qualifying for the full Pell Grant, a form of federal financial aid based on income, and attending a private college or the U full time will see their grant decrease by about $520 this year because of the change to the living expenses allowance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That is going to impact [students'] bottom line," she said. "It's millions in cost savings to just change that percentage point." Duckworth noted that change saved the state $63 million. Financial aid packages are still being calculated this summer, so officials from colleges and universities said they're still figuring out the impact of the State Grant changes on students. Brittany Tweed, Metropolitan State University's financial aid director, said she wasn't worried about students there scrambling to find extra money when they get their financial aid packages because the school already has low tuition and fees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the university will look for more financial aid for students affected by lower State Grants this year, she said. Michael McMahon, vice president for enrollment management at St. Mary's University of Minnesota, said some students are seeing bigger grants this year while others' grants are smaller. St. Mary's students' average award was $5,571 in the 2023-2024 school year and $4,994 last year. "It definitely does make a huge impact for affordability," he said. Brendan Frazier, a senior at Concordia University in St. Paul, said the grant has been a huge benefit for him, even though it's gone down a bit each year, ranging from $8,000 to $7,500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are a lot of students that are going to be following after me and my concern is for them, too," he said. Frazier testified at the Capitol about the program's value, as did Jaedyn Fellenz, a rising sophomore at St. Mary's. Last year, grants were rationed, Fellenz said, and it had a "pretty big negative effect on a lot of students." Her State Grant award was about $7,000 last year; the financial aid office told her to expect the same amount this year. "It is a weight off my shoulders," she said. "Even though I'm getting it, it's still good for people like me to speak up ... because the more people we get talking about it, the better chances we have of getting some funding back." A slimmed-down, more nutrient-dense, individual field ration is now available for order for all troops. The Close Combat Assault Ration, or CCAR, has been under development by the Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, or DEVCOM, since 2019. The Army designed the ration to support small units during operations in austere environments where they needed to self-sustain for 7 to 10 days with limited or no resupply, according to an Army release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The standard Meal, Ready to Eat and the First Strike Ration were too large and bulky to meet the need. The CCAR will replace the First Strike Ration and has a 39% reduction in volume and a 17% reduction in weight. That means a soldier can carry five days worth of nutrition in a three-day footprint. Initially, developers considered packaging nutrient-dense bars, but they scrapped that idea after gaining feedback from service members. Developers solicited feedback in 2019 from 10th Special Forces Group at Fort Carson, Colorado; the 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York; and 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though weight and volume reductions were key considerations for the new ration, user acceptance and nutrition were also critical factors. We have a long-standing saying in the food world that its not nutrition if its not eaten, Erin Gaffney-Stomberg, chief of the Combat Feeding Division, said in the Army release. Its critical that optimal nutrition is supplied to warfighters when and where they need it, and in a form that looks, smells and tastes good and is safe. In addition, we need to have science demonstrating how these rations impact warfighter performance. Pictured is a side-by-side comparison illustrating the volume and weight reductions between the existing standard individual ration Meal Ready to Eat (left), the First Strike Ration (center) and the CCAR (right). (Army) Studies indicated that soldiers eating the CCAR consumed more calories and experienced smaller energy deficits compared to those consuming the First Strike Ration in operationally relevant field training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats attributed to the increased energy density in the CCAR, according to the release. According to James McClung, Military Nutrition Division chief, negative energy balance, or the inability to consume enough calories to meet metabolic demands, is a threat to warfighter performance. Importantly, studies demonstrated that the CCAR did not adversely affect physical performance, McClung said in the release. As the Army and DOD continue to seek ways to optimize warfighter performance and lethality, evidence indicates that the CCAR is a promising option for short-term missions where it is crucial to minimize the logistical burden while maximizing energy intake and maintaining Warfighter performance. A couple in the Philippines were adamant that nothing would dampen their special day, even when heavy rainfall resulted in their wedding venue being flooded. On Tuesday, July 22, Jade Rick Verdillo and Jamaica Aguilar tied the knot at the Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan province after Storm Wipha which was previously considered a typhoon, but has since been downgraded to a tropical storm affected the country and surrounding areas, bringing widespread flooding, per the Associated Press. Images showed the bride wading through water at the venue with the bottom of her white lace dress and veil soaked, as the groom waited for her in his traditional embroidered shirt, called a Barong Tagalo, with water nearly up to his knees. AP Photo/Aaron Favila Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo kiss during their wedding ceremony Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo kiss during their wedding ceremony Guests, including flower girls and children in their wedding attire, were also seen wading through the water at the ceremony in the photos, with many leaving their shoes on a pew, the news agency noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We just mustered enough courage, Verdillo who has been dating his partner for 10 years told the outlet of going ahead with the nuptials. AP Photo/Aaron Favila Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony He added, We decided today because it is a sacrifice in itself. But there will more sacrifices if we dont push through today. Aguilar continued, saying, I feel that challenges wont be over. Its just a test. This is just one of the struggles that weve overcome." AP Photo/Aaron Favila Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony Some loved ones still made it to the ceremony despite the weather, with wedding guest Jiggo Santos saying, You will see love prevailed because even against weather, storm, rains, floods, the wedding continued Its an extraordinary wedding." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wipha was classified as a typhoon on Monday while over open water, but was downgraded to a tropical storm before making landfall in northern Vietnam on Tuesday after weakening overnight, the AP reported. More than 80,000 people remain in emergency shelters in the Philippines, following floods, landslides and tidal surges over the weekend. AP Photo/Aaron Favila Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo are pictured during their wedding ceremony 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 country has been struggling with monsoon downpours amid the storm, which began last week, per Reuters. Verdillo and Aguilar's wedding came after PEOPLE previously reported that bride Dianne Victoriano and her partner Paulo Padilla tied the knot in the same flooded church amid a pair of devastating typhoons in the Phillipines in July 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A video shared on social media by the bride's cousin, Maria Jasmin Halili, showed the newlywed-to-be wading through ankle-high floodwaters inside the historic church. Read the original article on People DENVER (KDVR) A fire sparked Tuesday afternoon southeast of Conifer in Jefferson County. The specific location was reported to be about a half-mile north of the North Fork of the South Platte River and a quarter mile west of Foxton Road. Officials named the fire the White Hawk Fire. It is burning in a remote area, the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office said on Facebook. No evacuations at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox The agency said that the Elk Creek Fire Department had ordered the Douglas County firefighting helicopter for aid. It was on scene as of 3:30 p.m. and dropping water on the blaze. The helicopter also dropped off members of the Douglas County helitack team on the side of the mountain for direct attack. Crews battle a fire in Jefferson County on July 22, 2025. (Courtesy the Elk Creek Fire Department) Crews battle a fire in Jefferson County on July 22, 2025. (Courtesy the Elk Creek Fire Department) A fire in Jefferson County sparked on July 22, 2025. (Courtesy the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office) The fire was estimated to be about three-quarters of an acre in size at about 3:30 p.m. At about 5:45 p.m., the Elk Creek Fire Department reported that the blaze had grown to 1.8 acres. The agency shared photos taken by an incident commander on the ground, and said that crews were slowing the fires forward progression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crews were creating direct fireline around the fire, Elk Creek reported. The Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, Elk Creek Fire Department, Douglas County Sheriffs Office, Conifer Fire Department and Jefferson County Open Spaces were all responding to the fire. This is a breaking news story. Check back with FOX31 for more 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 FOX31 Denver. When the wildfires ripped through the Pacific Palisades and Altadena in January, Michael Flood, chief executive of the L.A. Regional Food Bank, knew the demand for aid would explode. It was especially high in January through March as so many people were displaced and lost power and water, Flood said. He saw demand for food relief rise 30%. It is still high, he said. People had to move in with family and friends around the county. We did a food bank in Inglewood in February and we saw just how many had been displaced by both fires. His organization, which provides food assistance to hundreds of thousands of Angelenos every month, got significant help from the FireAid benefit concert in January. That show, produced by Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and music mogul Irving Azoff, featured dozens of A-list musicians like Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers performing at the Kia Forum and Intuit Dome. The event along with matching donations from Ballmer and his wife Connie raised $100 million for wildfire relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six months after the fires, The Times individually contacted over a hundred organizations that received FireAid funds, nonprofits in food aid, housing, mental health, childcare and ecological resilience. A review of the beneficiaries grants and work showed how FireAid was an urgent lifeline in the worst of the disaster and beyond. We want people to understand that there's been a thoughtful process behind this, and our top priority was trying to do what people needed, and do what's best for fire survivors, said Lisa Cleri Reale, a member of FireAid's grant advisory committee. Read more: Everything that happened at the FireAid benefit: From Stevie Nicks' thank you to Lady Gaga's hopeful closer Yet the grant recipients are still grappling with the deep, intertwined needs of a scarred Los Angeles. That work will require investment for years to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The high cost of rent, and food prices being 25% higher, it all puts pressure on people already struggling to meet basic needs, Flood said. Even though were six months from the fires, theres still such a significant need. In between sets, FireAid highlighted individual stories of incalculable tragedy. One family, the Williams of Altadena, recalled onstage that At 3:30 in the morning, the warning hit our phones. We grabbed what we could our grandmother's special clock, our fathers ashes, our 47-year-old parrot Hank. Among the five of us standing here, we lost four homes and were struggling to find places to live. Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes performs during the FireAid benefit concert on Jan. 30 at The Forum in Inglewood, Calif. (Chris Pizzello / Invision/Associated Press) For music fans calling in donations during Stevie Nicks' and Stings sets though, it was fair to ask how those specific groups were chosen, and how they were making a difference to families like the Williams. In late May, the Palisades Community Council sent a letter to the Annenberg Foundation and FireAid organizers. The critical letter asked for a full accounting of the grants, and clarity on the decision-making process behind them. The FireAid organization responded with the full timeline and the grant amounts theyd dispersed, along with plans for future rounds and applications for small groups to apply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is very different from other philanthropy. We have a different magnifying glass looking at us, Reale said. There are people who bought tickets to these concerts, who donated on the website, the musicians who gave their time, these people want to know that their contributions are doing what's best. We have fire survivors as our top priority, but we're also asking can we look at the FireAid donors and explain our decisions in a tangible way?" Read more: L.A. has never experienced loss on this scale. Measuring progress six months after the fires is hard and painful In breaking down the group's grant-making process, FireAid representatives showed how its earliest priorities were organizations providing direct cash, food and shelter to survivors. In February, $1 million went to the L.A. Regional Food Bank, followed by a second grant of $250,000. The money went to pay extra drivers, forklift operators and warehouse workers to help process and distribute donations after the fires. Were a year-round program, so when disaster strikes, that gets laid on top of it, Flood said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With its February grant, the group Inclusive Action distributed $500 cash grants to landscapers, street vendors and other outdoor workers who lost jobs or homes in the fires. The Change Reaction, a direct-aid group, got $2 million from the first round of FireAid grants. Change Reactions president, Wade Trimmer, said that the funds provided 2,500 recipients with grants up to $15,000 for immediate rent and transportation needs. The Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center burns during the Eaton fire in Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 7. (Josh Edelson / AFP via Getty Images) The strategy was to stabilize as many households as we could because when you have stability, you make better decisions, Trimmer said. Even for wealthy people in the Palisades, it was still a full-time job and an absolute nightmare dealing with it all. But in Altadena, there was an older population with multigenerational households, so for every house that burned, that affected two or three households. That money helped sustain Elizabeth Jackson, the owner of White Lotus, a workout studio in the Palisades that employed 14 fitness instructors. Jackson lost both her home and business in the fires. "We lost every single client at the studio because our clients lost their homes," Jackson said. "They're all starting their lives over." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through a White Lotus regular, Jackson got in touch with Change Reaction, which used some of its FireAid funds to give $1,000 to each White Lotus staffer and replace fire-damaged equipment so Jackson could reopen in a smaller space nearby. She hopes to return to her old property once it is rebuilt. "That support was a bright light in all the ugliness that happened," she said. "It's awful to lose the studio, but being on the receiving side of that beauty, it's even more powerful than the negative. It keeps me going." Read more: Fire charred two L.A. music utopias. Will they ever recover? The physical devastation in the burn zones was incomprehensible. For the immediate work of debris removal, flood prevention and vegetation clearing, Team Rubicon got a $250,000 grant. FireAid demonstrated a clear understanding of the unpredictable nature of wildfire response, and they recognized the importance of flexibility and agility during both the immediate relief and long-term recovery phases, the groups spokesperson Thomas Brown said. They invested in our work at a critical moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wounded and displaced pets received free veterinary care through groups like the Pasadena Humane Society and Community Animal Medicine Project. Yet many people tasked with helping others were also suffering. Many local nonprofit workers lost homes and workplaces, and needed aid to stay afloat while serving others. A lot of our staff were in crisis too, where they lost homes or were the only house left on their street in Altadena, said Stacey Roth of Hillsides, a Pasadena foster care and youth mental health facility near the Eaton fire zone. One of Hillsides main residential buildings suffered significant smoke damage, and the FireAid grant allowed the facility to move its vulnerable population to hotels nearby. The fire in Pacific Palisades quickly consumed more than 1,200 acres on Jan. 7, pushed by gusting Santa Ana winds. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) Michael Sidman of Jewish Family Service lost his own home in the Eaton fire in Altadena. Im very lucky to have a strong support system, but its been a nightmare navigating this, he said. When you think about people navigating this alone with no family, and unsure how to connect with services, I dont know what theyd do. His organization used its $250,000 grant from FireAid largely for comprehensive disaster case management work, particularly for survivors to manage the FEMA bureaucracy. Other early grants went to groups like Legal Aid, Bet Tzedek Legal and Public Counsel to help with insurance claims, as documents lost in the fires made proving residence and home ownership challenging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first, people didnt know where theyd spend the night, didnt know where to get food and were all grieving for their mental health, Sidman said. Now we see the need shifting to long-term effects and recovery plans, providing step-by-step facilitation of how to get their lives back on track. As the weeks of recovery continued, FireAids priorities for its second $25-million grant round expanded to longer-term efforts like insurance and government case management, mental health services, navigating home rebuilding permits and environmental recovery. It's one thing to get people cash aid, but its another to help them navigate the future, Reale said. Even though rebuilding seemed far away back in January, we knew that people needed to figure out their finances. Some of the fire victims our grantees were working with were on precarious ground financially even before the fires. Our job was to get them into a strong position so when they were ready to rebuild their lives, they wouldn't be floundering. Read more: In a bid to blunt gentrification after fire in Altadena, nonprofits look to buy burned lots Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fires significantly disrupted school and childcare for young families, many of whom are now homeless or miles away from family and resources. Victor Dominguez, president and chief executive of YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, said its FireAid grant provided emergency childcare for a thousand displaced children, along with mental health resources and camp activities for children to reconnect with their fire-scarred neighborhoods. Young kids experienced so many traumatic things in their local communities, Dominguez said. After the fires, kids and families had an opportunity to go somewhere safe where they trust. Now we are seeing the shock, the reality of this being a long-term experience. We were able to hire more licensed social workers, and the money we received from FireAid helped support that. Mental health services remained a complex and ongoing need, especially for youth and children. I went to the Sears building a couple of months ago, where Pali High is temporally housed, to look at this big wall where kids had posted notes about how they felt post-fires, Reale said. You could see that the trauma is still alive and well. Nobody's healing overnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of the aid dispersed was less visible to the public, if lifesaving for its recipients. Yet two marquee FireAid projects involved rebuilding and revamping damaged public green space, including Loma Alta Park, near Altadena. A second site, Palisades Park, will open this summer. Alana Lewis, who was impacted by the recent Eaton Canyon wildfires, at a community gathering at the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Altadena on Jan. 17. (James Carbone/For De Los) As residents in the burned areas explore rebuilding homes, issues like soil testing, remediation and permitting have emerged as new bureaucratic challenges for future FireAid grants to help navigate. Questions around how to support rebuilding or where it should happen at all are complex. FireAids third round of grants are likely to focus on longer-term mitigation efforts and environmental resilience to prevent and manage future fires, which are all but inevitable in climate change. The reality is we don't have enough money to rebuild every lot that was lost, Reale said. What we can do is wrap ourselves around tools or ways that a lot of people can benefit from when they're ready to rebuild, and that could be the sustainable models. We can't rebuild the same way. So well put our money toward things that are helping people with home hardening models, and things to prevent and mitigate future fires. Read more: Lopez: Six months after the fires: 'We have lost a lot. We never lost each other.' For the more intangible cultural communities lost like the music studios, rehearsal rooms and artists homes burned in both fires recovery will be diffuse. The January concert made FireAid a natural fit as a partner for MusiCares, the Recording Academys affiliated charity. That organization declined to say how much FireAid gave specifically, but said that the grant contributed to $6.25 million in fire recovery aid given to 3,200 affected music professionals to help rebuild studios, pay medical bills and evacuate burn sites. Post-fire gentrification and financial speculating are new major fears. The Palisades has always been a coveted neighborhood, where working-class residents will face challenges returning to any affordable apartments lost. Altadena home to a long-standing Black community and many blue-collar, intergenerational households could see longtime residents forced out of their beloved neighborhood yet again, this time by economic forces. A spokesperson for the Black LA Relief and Recovery Fund said it will use its FireAid grant to build power among residents so they can return, reclaim and rebuild amidst political and financial threats like land grabs and gentrification. The Pacific Coast Highway near Big Rock Beach in Malibu, Calif., on July 8. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) FireAid moved heaven and earth to produce a benefit concert on par with the Concert For Bangladesh and Live Aid. Yet that $100 million is just a sliver of the billions in damage inflicted on Altadena and the Palisades. (Applications for the final round of small nonprofit grants are still open). Reale and other FireAid organizers admit that the scale of aid needed is staggering, universally painful yet fraught with class and racial stratification. The FireAid concert made a profound impact for the groups serving survivors on the ground. Its also nowhere near enough to meet the need, and never could be. At the beginning, we were just worried about basic necessities. Then the reality set in of I have no home, I cant go back,' Hillsides Roth said. The need were seeing now is helping people process that, and get a path to move forward. Get notified when the biggest stories in Hollywood, culture and entertainment go live. Sign up for L.A. Times entertainment alerts. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Walton County Fire Rescue, volunteers with Liberty Volunteer Fire District, and the Walton County Sheriffs Office are on the scene of a large brush fire. According to officials, the fire is happening on Planters Drive North just south of Paxton in Walton County. It has covered approximately 10 acres. The fire is pushing south, away from nearby structures; however, if that changes, homes in the area will be evacuated, fire officials confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, no injuries have been reported. The Florida Forest Service is en route to assist, and they say to expect heavy smoke in the area. News 13 will provide updates 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 mypanhandle.com. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Several fire crews battled a house fire in northwest Charlotte Tuesday afternoon. The Long Creek Fire Department took the lead on a fire reported at 2:40 p.m. in the 700 block of Ferrell Avenue. When firefighters arrived, fire was showing from a two-story home off of Peachtree Road. (Credit: Long Creek Fire Dept.) Four Charlotte Fire Department engines also assisted. No injuries were reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire was controlled after 20 minutes of work and is under investigation by the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshals 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 Queen City News. Germany-based MDS Holding has acquired a majority stake in local organic company Bohlsener Muhle for an undisclosed sum. In a joint statement, the companies said the deal will strategically combine the expertise" of both businesses. Bohlsener Muhle is expected to benefit from a "restructuring" of its product range and investments in efficiency, along with a clear positioning in the retail sector. Just Food has asked for further details. Founded in 1979, Bohlsener Muhle produces muesli, snack breads, cookies and ready meals, with a team of 250 people. Volker Krause, Bohlsener Muhle's founder and long-time managing director, said: "With MDS Holding, we have found a partner who shares our values and with whom we can position Bohlsener Muhle for the future. This not only secures the future of the location ... but also the ecological orientation that we have stood for for decades. For MDS Holding, the deal is aimed at expanding its portfolio with a credible, artisanal organic brand. Krause is retiring from operational management due to age but he will continue to support the company as a consultant. MDS Holdings Tillman Schulz and Ralf Koch will assume management roles in the future. Bohlsener Muhle has established a strong position in the organic market over decades. We want to preserve and further develop this foundation, Koch added. "With our many years of experience in the food sector and a broad network, we want to expand our distribution channels, provide new impetus to the organic market, and strengthen our long-term competitiveness. Bohlsener Muhle will continue to operate independently and join MDS Holdings' other companies, including HMF Food Production, Pro Dimi Healthcare and Merx Bellavie. "German organic firm Bohlsener Muhle gets new majority owners " was originally created and published by Just Food, a GlobalData owned brand. Fireworks were set off on the night of July 19 as teens swarmed the Gilbert In-N-Out Burger, a common backdrop for southeast Valley beatdowns that go viral. Bridget Vega, a Gilbert resident and community advocate who was present, said she called police to warn them that a horde of teens would likely descend upon the restaurant near Williams Field Road and Market Street after a massive Saturday night party nearby. Vega and another parent, knowing the In-N-Out to be a popular meeting place for teens before and after parties, decided to stake out the restaurant after seeing party promotions online. She estimated roughly 150 teens were gathered there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A police officer parked near the In-N-Out sat in his car until the first firework was set off about 10:15 p.m., Vega said. He shined his flashlight as he questioned teens, she said. Backup arrived later, she said, and police questioned a group of teens. Some teens approached the officers to report that fireworks had damaged their vehicles, she said. Ultimately, police did not arrest or detain anyone, instead ordering the teens to disperse, she said. Officers directed teens to leave the area after speaking with the restaurant's manager, said Brenda Carrasco, a Gilbert police spokesperson. A large group of teens gathered at a Gilbert In-N-Out on July 19, 2025, as fireworks were set off, police said. Two fireworks were ignited on the east side of the parking lot, and police stopped a vehicle initially believed to be connected to the incident, Carrasco said. Officers allowed the vehicle to leave after learning the driver wasn't involved, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officers believed the fireworks may have been illegal based on what they saw, but did not know for certain, Carrasco said. Interviews with witnesses yielded a description of a suspect, Carrasco said. She encouraged anyone with information on the matter to contact police at 480-503-6500 and reference case #25-128407. Anonymous tips can be reported at gilbertaz.gov/SubmitATip. Carrasco asked that parents and guardians be aware of their teens' whereabouts. Anyone under 16 should abide by the 10 p.m. curfew, she said. A midnight curfew was set for those 16 and 17, Carrasco said. Gilbert police contacted the property manager "to explore additional support for enforcement efforts on their private property," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Creating a safe environment is a shared responsibility, and collaboration between the community and local businesses is essential to achieving this goal," Carrasco said. In-N-Out Burger did not respond to a request for comment. The restaurant is also its own property manager, according to Angela Manca of Vestar Development, which developed and manages SanTan Village Marketplace, where the restaurant is located. Community advocate wants to see more enforcement by police The incident was another example of teens showing disregard for the law with zero consequences from Gilbert police, Vega said. They knew cops were there, Vega said. They were very brazen. So Im not shocked of how Gilbert PD handled it, because I think they continue to undermine ... the severity of teen violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A private security guard was inside the restaurant at the time, but his job seemed limited to crowd control within the establishment as opposed to what was going on in the parking lot, Vega said. Unless Gilbert police adopted more aggressive enforcement measures that demonstrated lawbreaking had consequences, teens would continue to run rampant, Vega said Vega said she was frustrated with the Gilbert Police Department's monitoring of the In-N-Out, given the restaurant's history as the site of multiple assaults. Officers responded to the restaurant on the evening of July 5 after receiving reports of a fight among girls in the parking lot. Police ultimately arrested two teen girls, a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old, on suspicion of assault and disorderly conduct, with the younger girl also facing a curfew violation charge, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The July 5 fight was the most recent documented assault in the tally of Gilbert In-N-Out beatings. The restaurant was a favorite hangout of the "Gilbert Goons" and the site of seven parking lot attacks, according to beating videos, interviews and police records. Fireworks used in prior teen incidents in Gilbert Fireworks have been used in previous incidents involving teens in Gilbert. In one instance, members of a group of teens dubbed the Morrison Ranch Marauders were accused of lighting fireworks that burned a familys barn to the ground with 11 kids inside. Jeni Jones, who owned the barn, accused Gilbert officials of withholding information related to the case. Gilbert leaders, in response, defended the integrity of city staff and said public allegations of a cover-up were silly and unfounded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republic reporters Elena Santa Cruz, Robert Anglen and Maritza Dominguez contributed to this article. Reach the reporter Perry Vandell at perry.vandell@gannett.com or 602-444-2474. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @PerryVandell. Allegations lodged: Victim of $1M arson fire accuses Gilbert officials of conflict, cover-up and betrayal This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Fireworks set off at Gilbert In-N-Out as large teen crowd gathered The Trump administration opened a new front in its war with the courts this week and fired a veteran federal prosecutor in the process in a dramatic tussle over the New Jersey U.S. Attorneys Office. Now it's not clear who is in charge. Federal judges exercised a 160-year-old power to select a temporary prosecutor on Tuesday to lead the office, following President Donald Trumps failure to win quick Senate confirmation for his pick: his former personal lawyer Alina Habba. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within hours, Attorney General Pam Bondi and her deputy Todd Blanche unloaded on the group of mostly Democratic-appointed judges and their pick, Desiree Leigh Grace, a registered Republican who was, until this week, the top career prosecutor in the office. The judges, Blanche and Bondi said, have gone rogue and are seeking to threaten Trumps power to select prosecutors. That power, though, is tempered by requirements that presidential picks must be confirmed by the Senate. Presidents can name U.S. attorneys on an interim basis without Senate confirmation. But once that interim period expires, a longstanding federal law authorizes federal district judges to appoint a new prosecutor for the role until the Senate confirms a presidential nominee. No president has directly tested the authority of judges to make such appointments perhaps until now. Shortly after the district judges in New Jersey tapped Grace, Bondi fired her from the Department of Justice, where shed climbed the ladder over the past nine years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not clear Bondis gambit will succeed in blocking Graces appointment, but it likely presages a legal tug-of-war over who can lead the federal prosecutors office in New Jersey, muddling and possibly jeopardizing criminal cases across the state. In a Wednesday evening LinkedIn post, Grace said she was "selected on merit" and plans to take over the office. She did not give an exact date, but she offered a defense of her work as a nonpartisan prosecutor. "Ive served under both Republican and Democratic administrations," she wrote. "Ive been promoted four times in the last five years by both including four months ago by this administration. Politics never impacted my work at the Department. Priorities change, of course, and resources are shifted, but the work and the mission were steady." Previous court-appointed U.S. attorneys have faced legal challenges from criminal defendants, who have questioned whether the prosecutors overseeing their cases were improperly exercising power. A power struggle over who is leading the office in New Jersey could spawn similar challenges in a wide range of cases. All of it is likely to require higher courts to resolve disputes that could cause delays and exacerbate the dysfunction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The battle over Habbas fate is a precursor to similar battles that may unfold in other districts like Nevada, northern New York and the powerful U.S. attorneys office in Manhattan, where Trump has yet to install Senate-confirmed nominees. The concern is most acute in blue states, where Democratic senators typically hold outsize influence over the fate of Trumps picks for the prosecutorial posts. But there are questions about whether Trump will seek to steamroll those traditions to install his preferred nominees. Bondi and Blanche's hostility toward the New Jersey judges also comes amid broader turmoil among Justice Department leaders over their handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Blanche, just hours before his attack on the judges, had a discussion with lawyers for Epstein co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell as he tries to tamp down fury among Trumps base. And it comes just weeks after the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against all the federal district judges in Maryland over a court policy there that automatically grants a 48-hour delay in deportation cases so judges have time to consider immigrants emergency petitions. That suit was an inflection point in the escalating attacks on individual judges who rule against the administrations priorities, with senior officials, including the president himself, labeling them rogue and, in some cases, calling for their impeachment. The history behind judges filling vacancies The administrations attack on the New Jersey judges power to appoint temporary prosecutors is yet another outlier. Judges have had the power to fill vacancies in U.S. attorneys offices since the Civil War. In fact, from the late 1800s until 1986, it was the only way to fill a vacancy before the Senate confirmed a president's nominee. Then, the Reagan administration engineered a change to permit the president to appoint interim U.S. attorneys for up to 120 days before judges got a pick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That practice stood until 2006, when President George W. Bush signed a bill stemming from post-9/11 reforms related to the PATRIOT Act that stripped the judiciary of any role in the appointment of temporary U.S. attorneys. A year later, after the Bush administration was submerged in scandal for politicized firings of U.S. attorneys, Congress restored the judiciarys role, a measure intended to protect the independence of federal prosecutors. Bush signed that bill as well. In rare instances when judges have selected prosecutors, judges have typically appointed the same temporary U.S. attorney picked by the president, allowing for consistency and minimal disruption. Indeed, New Jersey district court judges in 2018 kept on Trumps interim appointee, Republican Craig Carpenito. But Habba, whose 120-tenure as interim U.S. attorney expires this week, is perhaps uniquely controversial because of her close ties to the president before taking office she was his personal attorney in three civil trials and her actions after. She led an aborted prosecution of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, the indictment of Rep. LaMonica McIver and an investigation of Gov. Phil Murphy, all Democrats. Habba had no experience as a prosecutor until Trump installed her as the interim U.S. attorney. After Bondi fired Grace, New Jerseys Democratic senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim, said the Trump administration was trying to intimidate anyone that doesnt agree with them, in this case, the judges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This administration may not like the law, but they are not above it, the senators said in a joint statement. Habba, who is still on the job, has not commented publicly on the judges decision to replace her. Grace did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Reason for Trump optimism The Trump administration has reason for some optimism that it could win a potential legal brawl with the federal court in New Jersey. In a footnote to a recent Obamacare-related case about appointment powers, a dissenting Justice Clarence Thomas joined by Justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch said he doubted that court-appointed prosecutors, who are part of the executive branch, are consistent with the original understanding of the separation of powers. But direct legal challenges to interim U.S. attorney picks have, so far, led to court rulings upholding the practice. The Supreme Court in a 1988 opinion acknowledged a role for judges to appoint executive branch officials who wield limited power. The justices pointed to a 1963 New York case upholding the courts role in selecting interim U.S. attorneys. And both the Massachusetts-based 1st Circuit Court of Appeals and the California-based 9th Circuit Court of Appeals have issued more recent decisions supporting the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While United States Attorneys are admittedly part of the Executive Branch, they also are officers of the court who serve the Judicial Branch, the 1st Circuit panel wrote in 2000. The court buttressed its position by noting that despite the judicial appointment power, the president still holds all the trump cards, exercising control over the work of the U.S. attorneys office and retaining the power to remove a judicially appointed pick. And of course, he can end the temporary appointment at any time by winning Senate confirmation of a permanent U.S. attorney, they noted. There is a lingering dispute, however, about whether the president can remove a judicially appointed interim U.S. attorney, which makes it possible that Bondis move to fire Grace does not negate her appointment by the judges. Amid all this high legal drama, Graces career could become collateral damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grace has been with the U.S. Attorneys Office since 2016, according to her LinkedIn, and has led the violent crimes and criminal divisions of the office, which handles about 1,500 criminal cases a year. In recent weeks, she was handling the controversial trespassing charge Habbas office brought against Baraka and then eventually dropped. Even when a magistrate judge criticized the Trump administration for Barakas hasty arrest and said the prosecutors office must operate with a higher standard, he praised Grace for her professionalism. You behaved appropriately in this matter, U.S. Magistrate Judge Andre M. Espinosa told her perhaps his only positive comments of the day for anyone in Habbas office. When judges appointed Grace to replace Habba, Booker and Kim both welcomed her. By contrast, theyd criticized Habba, whom Booker called a partisan warrior. CORRECTION: An earlier version of this article misstated the year Grace started in the U.S. Attorney's Office. It was 2016. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Oklahoma Task Force 1 primary operation has wrapped up in Central Texas after a two-week operation to support flood-related needs. On July 5, the Oklahoma City Metro deployed a six-member team for a swift water response in Texas. The need came in the aftermath of devastating and catastrophic flooding in the Hill Country, thats seen over a hundred deaths and caused billions of dollars in property damage. The rescue team was made up of four members from the Oklahoma City Fire Department, one member from the Yukon Fire Department, and one member from the Norman Fire Department. Simultaneously, a six-person crew from Tulsa was also deployed to help bolster mutual aid numbers. A second, seven-person, Oklahoma City Metro team followed shortly after, made up of Oklahoma City Fire, Oklahoma City Police, and Mustang Fire members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first three days, we were a water rescue resource for Texas because it was still theres still quite a bit of rain in the area, said Oklahoma Task Force 1 [OKTF-1] leader Derak Stewart. We were being pushed around to different small communities that were, it was having like, they were having, you know, continued flooding. So they would use us for a resource. Oklahoma Task Force aids Texas in search and rescue efforts Stewart said his team ended up bouncing around for days, combing through water as part of either primary or secondary rescue team efforts. Search operations included work on the ground, in rafts, and also involved K-9s that are specialized in detecting human remains. Stewart said the last major part of OKTF-1s efforts was focused on Kerrville, one of the hardest hit areas. Every day, getting up and hiking through the riverbanks of the Guadalupe in itself is physically demanding, said Stewart. And then, you have the heat turn up and the humidity, you have all the mud and all the debris that youre trying to navigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stewart said that on top of the physical demands, there was also the emotional side of the work, realizing a majority of the work was focused on finding human remains, not survivors. I think for most of our people, like obviously I cant speak for everyone, but for most of our people, you know, very, very task driven, trying to make sure that we can find and make sure were doing everything we can to find and find the remaining, you know, the remaining individuals, said Stewart. So those families do have some sort of closure. I mean, we, you know, we all know the reality of it is at that point, its a recovery. Stewart said the work also required a lot of mental strain, considering how much the water rose in some areas, leaving debris piles wrapped in trees and spanning miles in every direction. On the ground, up high, down low, youre looking underneath everything, said Stewart. You got to kind of step back and readjust and have, you know, go to plan B or plan C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stewart said Oklahoma crews were able to bring closure to at least one male victims family after finding his remains. He declined to share further details on that recovery, but stressed he couldnt stop thinking about how powerful the water that stole so many lives had to be. The water was deep and wide and forceful, and it doesnt really make sense until you see it, said Stewart. Stewart says his team received word, right after the two-week mark of their trip, that theyd be returning home July 21. Over the weekend, Texas officials announced the total number of missing had dropped drastically from well over a hundred to three people. Its a huge relief because, you know, youre thinking the target is 160 and now the targets three, said Stewart. Three is something that is, something that really is way more manageable from a search standpoint. It still doesnt make it any easier. Its still, you know, 85 miles of river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 4 employees asked Stewart if he and his task force members had any takeaways from the experience. He stressed how critical it is, in dire situations, for states to gather resources from various departments to have more efficient operations. He also said the experience left him with the need to share some advice for Oklahomans about water. Dont underestimate, ever, the power of water, said Stewart. You know, a lot of people will say, hey, you know, if I got into that, I would just swim out. No, you wont. Stewart also told News 4, OKTF-1 wanted to thank the people of Kerrville and across Texas who kept them fed while they worked. The second Oklahoma task force team, still in Texas, is expected home in a matter of days. Advertisement 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. A January 2025 view of the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Now that South Dakota has finished its fiscal year with a $63 million surplus, some Democrats and people affected by budget cuts are criticizing the states Republican administration and legislative majority for slashing spending too aggressively. Falling sales tax revenues and rising Medicaid obligations drove lawmakers to enact targeted spending reductions in the fiscal year 2026 budget they adopted during the legislative session that ended in March. Among the notable cuts were those affecting Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the State Library, tobacco-use prevention efforts, and subsidies for high school students taking dual credit college courses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Gov. Larry Rhoden reported that the state ended the 2025 fiscal year with a $63 million surplus. About a third of the surplus came from state departments spending less than their budgets allowed. About two-thirds came from higher-than-expected unclaimed property revenue. Unclaimed property consists of an array of abandoned or forgotten private assets, including money from bank accounts, PayPal accounts, stocks, life insurance payouts, uncashed checks, unused refunds, and the contents of safe deposit boxes. Holders of the money or items, such as banks, try to find the owners. The property reverts to the state after three years. Rhoden told South Dakota Searchlight he didnt regret any cuts, since they were made to ongoing programs and most of the surplus came from unclaimed property, which is an unpredictable revenue source. In his weekly column, he added hes glad the state didnt spend more money on this handout or that pet project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those who wish that we wouldve spent more, I wont apologize for making fiscally conservative decisions as your governor, Rhoden wrote. South Dakota is a leader in disciplined financial management. This is the 14th consecutive year South Dakota has reported a year-end surplus. It was achieved this year despite a $3.7 million decline in sales tax revenue. Surplus shows a neglect of state needs, former state contract worker says What the governor calls disciplined financial management, Carter Linke calls neglect and cruelty. Linkes contract position with the state Department of Health through Black Hills Special Services Cooperative was cut in May. He served as a tobacco prevention coordinator, researching emerging tobacco products and providing tobacco education to school districts and communities. The Legislature and Rhoden approved a $3 million annual cut to the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Dakota still needs the work he was doing, Linke said. This notion that South Dakota is being fiscally responsible doesnt really address the full picture and neglects the purpose of what these programs were and why theyre essential, he said. Linke now plans to pursue a masters degree out-of-state this fall. Partisan split on unpent funds House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish, said the Legislature worked to tighten up budgets for state departments to avoid reverted funds like the $22 million reported for the 2025 fiscal year. Just like everything else, its a matter of being smart, defining priorities well and only budgeting for what you really need, Odenbach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Sioux Falls Rep. Erik Muckey said reverted funds arent always a sign of overbudgeting and can also result from state departments failing to carry out their missions. He sits on the legislative budgeting committee. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Muckey pointed to recently approved cuts to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits and a Department of Social Services fund transfer regarding what he said the department described as under utilized mental health funding. Officials in the department said the unused funds were connected to a workforce shortage, according to Muckey, but he said it was a sign the state does not reimburse providers enough to sustain a mental health workforce. You can understand my ire for that when we have money and arent using it properly, Muckey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhoden said the reversions are a sign of commonsense decision making to find opportunities to save money. If every state and Washington, D.C., did business that way, our country would be a lot better off, he said in his weekly column. Extra money goes to budget reserves The $63 million surplus will flow into the states reserve funds. So will $106 million set aside during the legislative session to potentially help fund the construction of a new mens prison. Legislators plan to meet Sept. 23 for a special session to consider a prison proposal. Rep. Kadyn Wittman, D-Sioux Falls, criticized the surplus and unspent funds. She said the Governors Office opposed her most recent push to provide free lunch for public school children, which would have cost $616,000 annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The budget really reflects our values, and this year we chose as a Legislature to bank millions of dollars instead of investing in critical areas, Wittman told South Dakota Searchlight. Shed like more flexibility with unspent funds to meet needs and bridge funding gaps after the legislative session ends, rather than banking it. Reserve funds are hard to get at, Muckey said, because lawmakers need a two-thirds majority to pull money from the funds. Muckey said that law shouldnt change. Thats why its important, he said, to fully address the states needs upfront rather than having leftover money go to the bottom line and watch things starve. The states reserve funds, now at $492 million, account for 19.9% of the fiscal year 2026 budget. Muckey would like to reduce that to 15%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Dakota can be fiscally responsible and take care of people because those things are not mutually exclusive, he said. Lawmakers often refer to reserves as rainy day funds, and Muckey said program cuts that hurt people are the kinds of rainy days the state should use excess reserve funds to avoid. When we are experiencing thunderstorms in our state, why are we not using our rainy day fund to help people? Muckey said. Were just hoarding cash. Rhoden said in the surplus announcement that the $106 million left unspent in the 2026 budget is intended to help cover the costs of a future prison. But Odenbach said the money could be used for other priorities. We need to decide where to put it, Odenbach said, whether thats put toward a prison or property tax relief. SD budget reserves spending In the last decade, the South Dakota Legislature pulled funding from the states budget reserves for various needs and projects, according to the state Bureau of Finance and Management. Jul. 22MORGANTOWN When you turn on your faucet to fill a glass, run a bath or prepare a meal, chances are you're using water pulled from the Morgantown Utility Board's Flegal Reservoir. Since MUB filled the 370-million gallon manmade lake in 2023, it's become an integral water source for a system providing some 10.5 million gallons daily to area residents. In 2024, the Monongahela River provided 56.75 % of the area's drinking water, with 43.25 % coming from Flegal Dam and Reservoir and, to a lesser extent, the Cobun Creek Reservoir in White Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This year, we are at a ratio of roughly two-to-one of reservoir water to river water, " MUB Communications Director Chris Dale explained. "Last September, there was an incident at the Goshen Road exit in which butenedioic acid was spilled. In response, we used reservoir water exclusively for a day or two." In other words, the new reservoir is working exactly as intended. And in the coming months, it'll also start playing as intended. Morgantown Communications Director Brad Riffee said the city expects recreational amenities under construction at the reservoir to be completed by this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initially, the 125-acre property will feature a three-mile main trail loop around the reservoir with an additional two miles of side trails and multiple water crossings throughout. The city is building a boat launch areanon-motorized watercraft onlyto improve public access to the water and fishing trails will allow anglers to approach the water's edge. "It's exciting. I know we're certainly excited to have that as another fishing opportunity for folks in the area. In terms of small lakes, it's actually pretty good-sized. Once it's ready and folks get out there, I think it's going to provide some great fishing opportunities, " West Virginia Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Biologist Dustin Smith said. In 2023, the DNR stocked the reservoir with thousands of bluegill of all sizes to create what's known as the "forage base " for the largemouth bass that were added in 2024. There are other species coming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You usually have that largemouth bass and bluegill setup, which are the two common sport fish species in a smaller body of water like that. In the future, once the city is finished with their trail construction and the work they're doing, we do plan to add it to our trout stocking list for spring. So it will be one of the lakes we stock with trout in the springtime, but the details of that still need to be worked out in terms of frequency and all that, " Smith said, explaining he could also foresee channel catfish being added at some point in the future. The $50 million Flegal Dam and Reservoir was constructed over a five-year period concluding in January 2023. The water source, named for the Morgantown Water Commission's first engineer /manager, stretches about 4, 500 feet in the valley between Grafton Road and Kingwood Pike. It runs along Cobun Creek Road and follows the lines of Cobun Creek and Mountain Run. In November, Morgantown City Council used American Rescue Plan Act funds to cover a $1.5-million contract with North Carolina-based Nature Trails LLC to construct the trails and bridges. Once complete and opened to the public, BOPARC will manage the trails and WVDNR will oversee the site as a fishery, including enforcement of licensing and other state regulations. Until then, the site is off limits to the public. "For safety reasons, we ask residents to avoid the area until all amenities are in place, " Riffee said. Five deaths have been reported in Italy as extreme heat continues to affect parts of southern Europe. By 10 am (0800 GMT) on Wednesday, temperatures had already exceeded 30 degrees Celsius in Sicily. Turkey and Greece were also experiencing high temperatures, with the Turkish city of Istanbul reaching 36 degrees Celsius and the Greek island of Lesbos 38 degrees Celsius by the same time. In Athens, the Acropolis and other popular ancient sites were to be closed during the midday hours. Delivery service employees, construction workers and agricultural workers have also been instructed to stop work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greek law requires such measures for outdoor work when temperatures climb above 40 degrees Celsius, as is expected on Wednesday and in the coming days. Doctors have warned that elderly people and small children in particular should not spend time outdoors, that people should drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. The Italian authorities said there have been at least five deaths in the southern Apulia region alone in the last few days that could be related to the high temperatures. In Palermo, the capital of Sicily, the highest heat alert level is in effect. Heat warnings are also in place in more than a dozen other cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A high-pressure area from Africa, which meteorologists have named Kamel, is expected to bring temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius to the south of Italy. Turkey is also groaning under the heat. On Tuesday, temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius were recorded in six of the country's 81 provinces, and temperatures are expected to climb even higher on Wednesday. The heat is compounded by drought, which allows forest fires to spread more quickly. The emergency services are currently battling three active fires. Flagler County Sheriff speaks out as couple is arrested for child neglect A Palm Coast couple is facing child neglect charges after deputies said they found their infant alone in a car outside a bar. The couple was arrested Friday, and both are now out of jail. The Flagler County Sheriffs Office and Florida Department of Children and Families are investigating. You need to leave or Im calling the sheriff! Those were the demands coming from inside the home address listed for 28-year-old Clarisse and 60-year-old Norman Finnegan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple was arrested Friday night accused of leaving an infant alone sleeping in a car seat that wasnt secured properly while in the back seat of an unlocked car with the engine running. Body camera video showed deputies tending to the baby while witnesses accused both Clarisse and Norman of being at a bar drinking. Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said the two will never receive parents of the year award with these actions. These are serious offenses, Sheriff Staly said. Youve got to get your life under control. Go do your drinking elsewhere at home; you dont need to go to a bar. Sheriff Staly said if it werent for a concerned bystander to report the infant in the car this couldve ended in tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The car couldve gotten stolen, Sheriff Staly said. I mean it was unlocked. Think about your child before yourself. Make the right decisions to protect your child. Thats your job as a parent. Clarisse and Norman both face a child neglect without great bodily harm charge. Theyre expected to be in court August 19th at 8:30 a.m. for arraignment. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) Governor Larry Rhoden ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, in honor of former state legislator Michael (Mike) Diedrich. Denied Service in Sioux Falls- Truckers sue Dennys Diedrich served in the South Dakota State Senate from 1987 to 1990, from 1993 to 1994, and from 2021 to 2024. He also served in the South Dakota State House of Representatives from 2018 to 2020. Mike Diedrich pictured on far right. Mike was a ray of positivity in the legislature, and he was my friend. He always focused on the opportunities in front of us, said Rhoden in a news release. He was a strong advocate for his own community, but he balanced that with being a problem solver for the entire state. We will miss him, and we are praying for his family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Diedrich was an attorney from Rapid 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 KELOLAND.com. A flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Tucson at 3:44 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22. This warning applies to Pima. The National Weather Service warns: "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. Remain alert for flooding even in locations not receiving rain. Washes, streams, and rivers can become raging killer currents in a matter of minutes, even from distant rainfall." See weather radar for Pima County What are weather service meteorologists saying? At 3:44 p.m., the National Weather Service issued a statement: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The National Weather Service in Tucson has issued a Flash Flood Warning for: East Central Pima County, including Vail, Corana De Tucson, and Rita Ranch in southeastern Arizona, Until 6:45 p.m. MST. At 3:44 p.m. MST, Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 0.7 and 1.8 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.5 to 1 inch are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is already occurring. HAZARD: Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms producing flash flooding. SOURCE: Radar and automated gauges. IMPACT: Life-threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses. Some locations that will experience flash flooding include: Tucson, Vail, Corona De Tucson, Saguaro National Park East and Rita Ranch. This includes the following highways: Interstate 10 between mile markers 276 and 287 and Route 83 between mile markers 50 and 58. This includes the following Flash flood-prone locations: Harrison Road at Pantano Wash, Old Spanish Trl at Rincon Creek, Escalante Road at Atterbury Wash, Andrada Road east of Wentworth Road, Camino Loma Alta at Rincon Creek, Old Spanish Trail at Jeremy Wash and Calle Rinconada Road from Andrada Road to Sahuarita Road. This includes the following streams and drainages: Rincon Creek, Pantano Wash, Coyote Wash, Agua Verde Creek and Cienega Creek." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News alerts in your inbox: Don't miss the important news of the day. Sign up for azcentral newsletter alerts to be in the know. What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a flood caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, generally less than six hours, according to the weather service. Flash floods are usually characterized by raging torrents after heavy rains. A flash flood can be sudden and violent and take just minutes to develop. It is possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain. What's the difference between a flash flood watch and a flash flood warning? A flash flood warning is issued when a flood is imminent or occurring, the weather service says. If you are in a flood-prone area, you should move immediately to high ground. The weather service issues a flash flood watch when flash flooding is possible. What to do during a flood warning If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Use a battery-operated radio or television to get the latest emergency information. Do not walk through floodwater. Just 6 inches of floodwater can sweep you off your feet if it is moving swiftly. Turn around, don't drown: Do not drive into a flooded street. Cars can be swept away by 2 feet of moving water, or there may be unseen damage to the road. If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way. Most flood-related deaths are caused by people driving through water. Watch out for fire hazards. Move to higher ground. Stay alert and turn weather notifications on. Do not allow children to play in flowing water. Waters can hide rocks, trees and debris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reporters Jana Hayes and Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez contributed to this article. This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor. See the latest weather alerts and forecasts here This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Flash flood warning issued for Pima County RUIDOSO, N.M. (KRQE) The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Hollywood, Alto, Fort Stanton, Lincoln, Glencoe, San Patricio, Bonito Lake, and Hondo until 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Highway 380 between mile markers 91 and 107 will also be affected. The NWS said that thunderstorms are producing heavy rain over the Blue 2, South Fork, and McBride burn scars. They said areas impacted include Eagle Creek, Cedar Creek, and Rio Ruidoso drainages, and potentially downstream of the Rio Hondo. There is a report of a three-foot wall of mud on Main St. at McDaniel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone dealing with power outages is asked to text #OUT to 78766 to report an outage. Text #ALERT to 78766 to receive updates on outages. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released its latest quarterly Gas Market Report, forecasting a rebound in global natural gas demand growth by 2026. The report provides analyses the supply, demand and trade of natural gas for 2025 and 2026, indicating a temporary slowdown followed by an acceleration in demand. In the first half of 2025, market fundamentals remained tight due to reduced Russian piped gas exports to the EU, modest growth in liquefied natural gas (LNG) output and increased storage injection needs in Europe. Europe saw a 6.5% year-over-year increase in natural gas consumption, mainly supported by the electricity sector due to reduced power generation from wind and hydro sources. This trend, while not indicative of a long-term shift, underscores the crucial role of gas-fired power plants in maintaining electricity supply security, especially in markets with a high reliance on variable renewables. In contrast, China's natural gas demand fell by an estimated 1% year-over-year, with a significant drop of more than 20% in the country's LNG imports. Meanwhile, North America experienced an estimated 2.5% increase in natural gas demand compared to the same period in the previous year, with growth concentrated in the first quarter due to colder weather increasing gas usage in buildings. Amid these conditions and heightened macroeconomic uncertainty, global natural gas demand growth is expected to slow from 2.8% in 2024 to approximately 1.3% in 2025. The anticipated growth for 2025 is largely driven by North America and Europe, while the Asia-Pacific region is forecasted to experience its weakest annual rate of consumption growth since the energy crisis in 2022, largely due to sensitivity to higher prices. The IEA's report predicts a resurgence in global demand growth by 2026, with an expected acceleration to around 2% as a significant increase in LNG supply eases market conditions and stimulates stronger demand growth in Asia. IEA director of energy markets and security Keisuke Sadamori said: The backdrop for global gas markets is shifting as we enter the second half of this year and look towards 2026. The wave of LNG supply that is set to come online is poised to ease fundamentals and spur additional demand, especially in Asia. However, our latest forecast is subject to unusually high levels of uncertainty over the global macroeconomic outlook and the volatile geopolitical environment. The IEA continues to monitor gas markets closely and to work with stakeholders around the world to support security of supply. BOSTON (AP) A flight attendant accused of taping his cellphone to the lid of an airplane toilet to secretly film young girls was sentenced to just under 20 years in prison Wednesday. Former American Airlines flight attendant Estes Carter Thompson III received a sentence of 18.5 years, followed by five years of supervised release. Boston U.S. District Court Judge Julia Kobick called his behavior appalling" and said child victims' innocence has been lost because of his actions. Thompson was arrested and charged in January 2024 in Lynchburg, Virginia, after authorities said a 14-year-old girl on his flight discovered his secret recording setup in the lavatory. He was indicted last year on one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children and one count of possession of child sexual abuse images depicting a prepubescent minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He apologized in court Wednesday, describing his actions as selfish, perverse and wrong. Police alleged Thompson, of Charlotte, North Carolina, had recordings of four other girls between the ages of 7 and 14 using aircraft lavatories over a 9-month period. In a sentencing memorandum submitted in court, U.S. government attorneys said Thompson robbed five young girls of their innocence and belief in the goodness of the world and the people they would encounter in it, instead leaving them with fear, mistrust, insecurity, and sadness. Thompson, who will serve his sentence at FMC Butner in North Carolina, intends to undergo sex offender-specific treatment, his attorneys said. A lawyer for Thompson said via email Wednesday he wouldnt be commenting. VADO, N.M. (AP) At least 20 people had to be rescued as flood waters raced through a New Mexico community near the Texas state line overnight, marking the latest deluge of summer rain to force evacuations and cause damage for the otherwise arid region. Forecasters with the National Weather Service in Albuquerque and El Paso, Texas, have been busy in recent weeks issuing flood watches and warnings as afternoon thunderstorms crank up across the region. It's part of the monsoon's daily ritual. Authorities in Dona Ana County conducted damage assessments Wednesday as they shifted to recovery operations. Initial reports from the county's emergency management team showed about 110 homes in the Vado area were damaged by flood waters, several hundred homes were without power and some roads remained closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency crews transported two people to the hospital with minor injuries, county officials said. All of our flooding protocols were working. It was just too much water, county spokesperson Ariana Parra said of the storm. Resident Sally Sanchez-Gonzales asked for prayers Tuesday night as waves of muddy water crested just beyond the fence that lines her property. On Wednesday, she shared a video that showed the aftermath, the mud having caked a large swath of desert as debris clogged other areas. My family is still trying to help some families evacuate at the lower ends and others returned to get important items, she told The Associated Press. Theres a lot of cleanup to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flooding in Vado resulted from more than 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) of rain that fell Tuesday, officials said. To the north, the mountain community of Ruidoso is still recovering from deadly flooding that damaged hundreds of homes as storm water rushed off mountainsides that have been scarred over recent years by wildfire. Without trees and other vegetation to hold back the water, the village has been forced to issue almost daily warnings for people to stay clear of creeks and low-lying areas. State officials on Wednesday announced the federal government has issued a major disaster declaration for communities in Lincoln County, including Ruidoso. Temperatures continued to edge higher Tuesday, matching our hottest temperatures of the summer in some locations. Now, were set to go even higher as a summer ridge takes full control of our pattern through at least Thursday. One note: the Extreme Heat Warning was traded out for a Heat Advisory. This is because the current heatwave is underperforming so far. Heat indices over the past several days have been in the 100 to 105. This matches the criteria for a Heat Advisory better than an Extreme Heat Warning (issued when heat indices are expected to approach 110). Download our KOLR 10 weather app Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wet spring and summer have made for lush conditions across the Ozarks. But as the ground dries out, the grass and trees may begin to struggle, and lose some of their vibrant green color. This will make it easier for temperatures to soar under the summer sunshine. In the short term, though, the current setup will likely hinder highs a bit. That said, the summer ridge is still providing a boost, and afternoon highs are expected to slowly climb through at least Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will also be a very sunny pattern as the atmosphere dries out. Humidity levels at the surface will also be a bit lower. This will allow morning temperatures to get a bit cooler and also keep afternoon heat indices generally in the low 100s. There may be an opportunity for more clouds and even a little rain starting Friday and continuing through the upcoming weekend. An area of unsettled weather will move around the summer ridge before shifting east through Missouri and into Illinois through Sunday. This should weaken the ridge somewhat and juice up the atmosphere with moisture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this stage, this looks like only a small speed bump in what will overall be a hot and mostly dry pattern through the end of the month. After that, maybe some relief. The summer ridge is expected to shift into the West during the first week of August. This will open a path for cool fronts to drop south through the Ozarks. That should mean some rain and an easing of the heatwave in early August. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) In lieu of recent disasters in our area, and those across New Mexico and Central Texas, FBI El Paso is warning the public about potential charity fraud. Charity fraud is when scammers set up fake charities or donation sites to take advantage of your kindness. The FBI says while these scams can occur at any time, they are especially prevalent after damaging events like hurricanes, flash floods, and forest fires. Scammers compete with legitimate charities to divert donations away from those who need it most, and back to the fake charitys creator. Recently, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an investigation into fraudulent charity scams centered around the devastating flash floods in Kerr County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is sick and disgusting that people would use the tragedy of the devastating floods to enrich themselves by deceiving well-meaning people trying to help, said Attorney General Paxton in a press release. Jeanette Harper, with FBI El Paso, told KTSM, Youll see that anytime of the year, but it really increases during natural disasters. In 2022, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported over 1.1 million fraud reports, with charity scams being a significant portion. The FBI recommends following a few guidelines to make sure you dont become a victim: Never let anyone rush you into donating . Give to established charities or groups whose work you know and trust. Dont assume the charity you have seen on social media or online is legitimate, even if it was sent to you by a friend. Be aware of organizations with copycat names or names similar to reputable organizations. Do your research. Use the Federal Trade Commissions resources to examine the track record of a charity. Give using a check or credit card. If a charity or organization asks you to donate through cash, gift card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer, its probably a scam. Check the websites address . Most legitimate charity organization websites use .org, not .com. Check the hyperlinks in emails by hovering the mouse cursor over it to see if its going to the legitimate charity organization prior to clicking on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI says if you believe youve been the victim of a charity scheme or other cyber fraud activity you can contact FBI El Paso at (915) 832-5000. Victims are also highly encouraged to file a complaint with the FBI at ic3.gov and with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.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 KTSM 9 News. HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) Florence Bank announced that it will be opening a new branch in Holyoke next year. Holyoke deepens ties with sister city Salinas with volleyball match and cultural tour Florence Bank states that the new 2,500-square-foot office will be located at 1504 Northampton Street in Holyoke. The city will break ground on the full-service Holyoke branch in August, and it is expected to open in the spring of 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August of 2017, Florence Banks first branch opened in West Springfield, followed by the opening of its Springfield branch in 2019, and Chicopee in the spring of 2021. The new branch is being designed by HAI Architecture in Northampton and will provide a spacious lobby, traditional teller stations, five offices, a drive-up teller window, and a drive-up ATM. Florence Bank in Holyoke concept design (Photo provided by Jim Hickey, Senior Vice President / Chief Marketing Officer of Florence Bank) Six employees will staff the branch, and the banks Spanish-speaking mortgage originator will also be based in the new branch. Were thrilled to be able to provide our current and future customers in Holyoke with a convenient way to bank with us and look forward to serving the people, businesses and organizations in the Paper City, said President and CEO Matt Garrity. Our focus is on providing great customer service and helping to reinvigorate the community, and we are proud and committed to be meeting the banking needs of more residents of Hampden County. 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 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. FLORENCE, S.C. (WBTW) Murder suspect Michael Smith Jr. showed no emotion and remained quiet in court on Wednesday as a Florence judge ordered him held without bond in the stabbing death of a woman at an apartment on N. Coit Street. Smith, 26, of Florence, appeared in Florence Summary Court, where a judge set a Sept. 17 preliminary hearing in General Sessions Court. Smith is being held at the Florence County Detention Center on charges of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Smith was arrested on Tuesday after Florence police were called to the 200 block of N. Coit Street and found the woman inside the apartment. The woman, whose name has not been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Wednesdays hearing, Smiths mother offered condolences to the womans family members, who were not in court. She also asked for help for her son, saying he has a mental health disorder. She also said he was a National Guard member and a churchgoer. She said she didnt know the circumstances about what was going but said he has a sickness and needs help. Florence police asked the judge to deny bond for Smith because of the brutal nature of the crime scene. News13 had a reporter in court and will have updates on air and online. * * * 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Eric Cooper is a multimedia journalist at News13. He joined the team in September 2024 and covers stories in the Pee Dee. He is a native of Cades in Williamsburg County and a proud graduate of Kingstree Senior High School and Benedict College. You can 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. Floridas Republican Attorney General James Uthmeier said Tuesday that his office has subpoenaed Linda Moore, the vice mayor of Vero Beach, Fla., in a state investigation into a drag performance that took place last month at a local wine bar Moore owns. In a news release, Uthmeiers office said there is evidence that a Pride Tea Dance held at the Kilted Mermaid on June 29, advertised as an all-ages event, featured adult, sexualized performers in front of children, in violation of Florida law. The subpoena sent to Moore, dated July 8, requests surveillance video, employee work schedules and contracts or invoices that identify which performers were present at the event. The attorney generals office is also asking Moore to produce information related to attendance at the event and copies of the Kilted Mermaids policies regarding age verification, admission policies, security screening and ID checks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uthmeiers office did not immediately return a request to clarify which specific Florida law the state is accusing Moore of violating. Neither the news release nor the subpoena specifies which laws she allegedly broke. Floridas Protection of Children Act, which bars children from attending adult live performances featuring sexual or lewd conduct, has been unenforceable since 2023, when a federal judge ruled it likely unconstitutional. The law does not directly reference drag performances but is widely viewed, including by its primary sponsor, as being aimed at them. In May, a federal appeals court panel upheld a lower court decision that described the states law as overly broad and vaguely written, leaving the injunction barring its enforcement in place while the case continues. In a post on the social platform X, Uthmeier called the ruling radical and wrong and said his office will fight aggressively and swiftly to get these bad decisions overturned. I stand by our law that protects kids from drag shows and other sexually explicit adult performances, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore, who has owned the Kilted Mermaid for more than a decade, must respond to Uthmeiers subpoena by Aug. 8. She told The Hill in an email, The Kilted Mermaid has done nothing wrong, and we are not certain what they are investigating as there is no crime listed on the subpoena. In an interview Tuesday with NBC News, Moore said the bar has held the same pride event annually for at least the past five years. We have the event every year; its our gay pride event, and it is all ages, she said. Its a family-friendly event, and then once the drag show actually starts, we tell the parents who have small children that they cant stay for the show. Photos and videos of the event circulated on social media by conservative activists, including Jennifer Pippin, who leads a local chapter of Moms for Liberty, mischaracterized the event, Moore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Facebook post the day after the event, Pippin wrote that she had reported the event to Uthmeiers office for violating Floridas law restricting adult live performances. She told NBC News that she was unaware the law had been blocked. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. David Jolly is the only major Democrat running for Florida governor next year. But hes still facing attacks and scrutiny about his Republican past over a key issue threatening party unity: abortion rights. The former GOP representative and MSNBC political contributor has faced backlash in recent weeks from Anna Hochkammer, executive director of the Florida Womens Freedom Coalition political committee. The criticisms have incensed his supporters, whove rushed to defend him publicly. In a state President Donald Trump won by 13 points in November, Jollys allies worry that beating down the lone major Democratic candidate could provide yet another hurdle in an already difficult race for the beleaguered state party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It alternatively could pave the way for a candidate to enter the race from the left that would highlight Jollys past positions on abortion among others he has since renounced, creating a testy Democratic primary. Jollys supporters point to his turnaround on abortion rights and say the attacks are counterproductive. This is not the way I would like to see us go to start attacking someone I think would be a very strong candidate, said Broward County Commissioner Nan Rich, a former Democratic leader in the state Senate who said Jollys focus on affordability issues was key to winning over voters. There is time to have debates when the field is settled. Jolly had enjoyed a swell of support from key Democrats when he announced he was joining the party and running for the office, which Republicans have held for more than 30 years. But the first public sign of backlash started July 9, when Hochkammer, whose group was one of several that unsuccessfully pushed voters to enshrine abortion rights in the state Constitution with a 2024 ballot initiative, wrote an op-ed in the Miami Herald urging voters to scrutinize Jollys views on abortion. Then came fundraising texts and emails from the Florida Womens Freedom Coalition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not going to let moderate men like David Jolly posture as reasonable, read one. Another ticked off the anti-abortion votes Jolly took in Congress and accused him of running like he thinks we have amnesia. In an interview, Hochkammer said she wanted Jolly to release a list of executive actions hed take against Floridas six-week abortion ban if elected, given that a Republican-majority Legislature is unlikely to weaken the law. Anybody who runs for governor needs to make their position blatantly clear, she said. What executive actions are you willing to take in order to deal with this abortion ban? Jolly hasnt released a list but said he voted for the 2024 abortion amendment and has promised to restore abortion rights if elected. In contrast, Republican Rep. Byron Donalds whom Trump has endorsed for governor supports keeping most abortions illegal after six weeks. But Hochkammer said she hasnt criticized Donalds because his stance was already reflected in his voting record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Democrats have accused Hochkammer of engaging in a smear campaign against Jolly to build momentum around a possible gubernatorial run of her own or for someone else. Hochkammer shot down both charges. I am not in the race, I have never been in the race, I will not be in the race, she said. Her goal, she said, was for anyone running as a Democrat to make the issue front and center in their campaigns, given that the majority of Florida voters supported the abortion amendment even as it narrowly fell short of the 60 percent backing needed for passage. But many counter that the issue though important to Democrats isnt voters lead concern compared with high prices Floridians face on housing, groceries and insurance. For his part, Jolly has raised his abortion record in interviews and town halls. He said he was frustrated that the Miami Herald op-ed and fundraising emails didnt present his current views: that women should have the right to choose abortion until fetal viability, which is generally understood to start around 24 weeks into a pregnancy. Abortion regulations such as waiting periods, forced ultrasounds or counseling are unnecessary, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keep the politicians and the laws out of the doctors office. Thats the principle, he added. When it comes to minors accessing abortion, Jolly said he was a proponent of parental involvement in most cases but supports exceptions, such as when a child is in an abusive family. The position marks a shift from when Jolly was a Republican in Congress more than 11 years ago. At the time, Jolly signed onto the Life at Conception Act that would have given full legal rights to a fertilized egg and voted in favor of limiting most abortions to 20 weeks. He also led a measure to redirect federal funding from Planned Parenthood. He bucked his party in 2015, as the lone Republican to vote against creating a fourth panel that would look into Planned Parenthoods handling of fetal tissue remains. Jolly said that his past positions stemmed from the Baptist faith he grew up with and having a father who was a minister. What I got wrong in Congress was applying faith to constitutional questions, he said. Jolly first relinquished his GOP association by registering as a no-party affiliated voter in 2018. He has seen a torrent of support since Hochkammers op-ed published. Eleven high-profile Democratic women, including former Rep. Gwen Graham and Barbara Zdravecky, the former CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, signed onto a Sunday Miami Herald op-ed saying they trusted Jolly on the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Political committee filings show he also received a $50,000 contribution after the Hochkammer op-ed ran from Barbara Stiefel, a Coral Gables philanthropist and pharmaceutical heiress whos donated to abortion rights causes and already gave $100,000 toward his political committee in May. Ive personally checked the box with him, said Alex Sink, a former Florida chief financial officer and the 2010 Democratic nominee for governor. When she sat down with Jolly, Sink said, she wanted to know two things: how hed avoid being like ex-Republican Charlie Crist, the 2022 gubernatorial nominee and Democratic Party convert who lost his bid against Gov. Ron DeSantis by 19 points, and what his position was on abortion. (Jolly has pointed out on the first point that Senate candidate Val Demings, a longtime Democrat, also lost her race by 15 points despite being one of the top fundraisers the same cycle as Crist.) He satisfied me on both counts, concluded Sink, who co-founded the Ruths List organization that helps elect women who support abortion rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jill Lafer, a longtime reproductive health advocate who was the former national board chair of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, told POLITICO in a statement that she trusted Jolly would veto any abortion restrictions the GOP Legislature passes. "Florida finally has the opportunity to elect a pro-choice governor in David Jolly, she said. He has my enthusiastic support." Others turned their ire at Hochkammer, including those who gave or helped raise funds for her organization previously. Former Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner, who endorsed Jolly and signed onto the Sunday op-ed, slammed the fundraising texts and emails as over the top and vicious. We are not naive or novices, she said. We are very staunch reproductive rights advocates who have been fighting for decades to provide access. Is he pulling the wool over everybodys eyes except Anna? It doesnt ring true. Some Democrats, however, do have reservations about Jollys evolution. A column in the progressive news site the Daily Kos called Jolly the wrong choice for Florida Democrats, citing his voting record on abortion and other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emily Rodrigues, president of the East Side Democrats in Broward County who ran an unsuccessful bid to become a Democratic state House nominee, said reproductive rights were key to young voters. She also said she wished she had seen Jolly out front on the issue when it was on the ballot. (Jolly has said his MSNBC contract at the time barred him from advocacy.) I felt like a lot of people in Democratic spaces didnt like me talking about it because they feel like hes our only viable candidate, Rodrigues said. I counter it by saying its very early. Former state Senate Democratic Leader Audrey Gibson, who unsuccessfully ran for state Democratic Party chair this year, said she thought it was fair for Jollys positions to be scrutinized, adding that she wished the party had been more focused on courting a real Democrat candidate for governor. Now he understands he was wrong, but when it was really critical for him to be right, he wasnt, she said, referring to Jollys time in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Rep. Joe Garcia, whos engaged to Hochkammer, said he wanted Jolly to more fully explain his position and for a vigorous debate to happen around the issue. As we have found, the governor of Florida has vast powers we never knew he had to spend money, move things, remove elected officials, Garcia said, alluding to the way DeSantis has leveraged the office. There are vast powers in the governorship, and I would expect him to use it. Hochkammer cited examples like removing state attorneys who prosecuted doctors who performed abortions. But Florida Democrats like attorney Jennifer Buttrick said the party should get behind the person who can win and that it was laudable for people to change their minds on key issues. She called for defunding the Florida Womens Freedom Coalition in a post on X; shed held two fundraisers for the organization ahead of abortion amendment going before voters in the 2024 election. We are losing people, not winning people, she said of Florida Democrats. We need to have a bigger tent not a smaller one. Kimberly Leonard reported from Miami, and Arek Sarkissian reported from Tallahassee, Florida. Michael Nagle / Bloomberg via Getty Images The nation's oldest bank and a big Wall Street firm are wading into tokenization, joining a growing number of money managers experimenting with blockchain technology. Bank of New York Mellon (BK) and Goldman Sachs (GS) on Wednesday said they partnered to "support increased tokenization of financial assets." BNY's LiquidityDirect platform will connect to Goldman's private blockchain, called GS DAP, allowing some institutions to "subscribe and redeem" tokenized versions of money-market fundsthough not technically buy and sell the funds themselves. BlackRock (BLK), BNY Investments Dreyfus, Federated Hermes and Fidelity Investments are also participating in the launch, the institutions said. The effort stops short of the expected eventual benefits of what's known as decentralized financeallowing, for example, the general public to use tokens as collateral for trading. But it is a Wall Street step toward a future in which securities might borrow crypto characteristics in terms of how they're transferred or programmable methods for dealing in them. BNY and Goldman's efforts now are comparable with what BlackRock has done with its tokenized Treasury product, BUIDL, which was designed for accredited investors and institutional clients. There are about $6.75 billion in tokenized US Treasuries, bonds and cash equivalents so far, with BlackRock's BUIDL token accounting for roughly a third, according to research firm rwa.xyz. (That's a sliver of the $7 trillion in U.S. money market funds.) BNY said it would continue to maintain official books, records and settlements for the tokenized funds in the traditional way, while enabling "mirror tokens" on Goldman's private blockchain. In other words, this launch might be best thought of as a walled-off sandbox. Read the original article on Investopedia A federal judge in Florida has rejected one of the Justice Departments bids to make public secret grand jury transcripts from the investigation of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg concluded she was required to dismiss the departments request because of longstanding grand jury secrecy rules that include only a few narrow exceptions none of which she said the Justice Department met in this case. The Obama appointees ruling is a setback for Attorney General Pam Bondis effort to release Epstein-related grand jury materials part of a broader effort to stave off the fury of Trumps MAGA base, which has demanded public disclosures of evidence. Trumps supporters have pushed for the administration to reveal Epsteins purported client list, which they believe contains evidence of sex trafficking by high-profile associates. Earlier this month Trumps DOJ and FBI said no such client list exists, and Bondi said she wouldnt release additional materials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the rejection in Florida, the Justice Department has another opportunity. DOJ leaders have also asked two federal judges in New York, where prosecutors brought cases against Epstein and his co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, to unseal grand jury transcripts. And New Yorks federal courts have generally taken a less stringent approach to grand jury secrecy. The Justice Department filed an unsealing request in Florida because two federal grand juries were convened in West Palm Beach in 2005 and 2007 to investigate Epsteins actions. Epstein, who died by suicide in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial in New York on sex trafficking charges, never faced federal charges in Florida. In 2007, he struck a deal with federal and state prosecutors in which he pleaded guilty in state court to two felony soliciting charges, including procuring a minor to engage in prostitution. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison. DOJ acknowledged its request to unseal materials in Florida likely would violate the courts longstanding precedent but encouraged Rosenberg to consider it because of the significance of the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unsealing requests pending in New York arent expected to be resolved for several weeks, as the judges weighing those requests have asked for additional materials from the Justice Department, the victims and representatives for both Epstein and Maxwell. On Wednesday, the judge overseeing the Maxwell case denied her requestto view the grand jury materials, writing that "it is black-letter law that defendants are generally not entitled to access grand jury materials." Maxwells lawyers had said they sought the records to help craft a response to the judges order to communicate their position on the unsealing request. ST. LOUIS Three men from Florida, who federal investigators said are in the country illegally, admitted to stealing $690,500 in luxury items from homes across St. Louis County, including Ladue and Chesterfield. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office of the Eastern District of Missouri, Benjamin Andres Ovalle-Taibo, 33; Jonathan Vejar-Caro, 33; and Henry Jose Ferreira-Perez, 21, burglarized the homes in June 2023. The men traveled to St. Louis County on June 9, 2023, to scout possible burglary targets and purchased items to assist in their home break-ins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child sex predator on the loose; arrest warrant filed That evening, Ovalle-Taibo and Vejar-Caro stole over $300,000 in luxury items from a home in Ladue, including jewelry, handbags, and watches, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. The men then drove to Illinois and stayed in an Airbnb before returning to Florida to sell the stolen items. The following week, on June 16, 2023, Ovalle-Taibo and Vejar-Caro burglarized another home in unincorporated St. Louis County and stole around $128,000 worth of items, including jewelry. The next day, the men burglarized a Chesterfield home and stole $188,500 worth of items from one home and $44,000 from another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Ovalle-Taibo pleaded guilty on Wednesday to one count of conspiracy to commit the transparency of stolen goods. Vejar-Caro admitted to one count of transportation of stolen goods. Ferreira-Perez also pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of stolen goods in December and is scheduled to be sentenced to 14 months in prison. Ovalle-Taibo and Vejar-Caro are scheduled to be sentenced in October. The U.S. Attorneys Office said all three men are in the United States illegally and will most likely be deported after their release from prison. Advertisement 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. In a rare loss for the state of Florida and its vigorous efforts to bolster parental rights, a federal appeals court declined to reconsider a decision supporting the Leon County school system after a young student asked to express a different gender identity and school officials refused to discuss their plans with the students' parents. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on July 17 denied a request by January and Jeffrey Littlejohn for the full appeals court to hear the dispute. A panel of the Atlanta-based court, in a 2-1 decision, ruled in favor of the school system in March. This was despite a concentrated effort by multiple conservative and parents rights groups from across the country and by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and Republican leaders in 19 other states, who filed a friend-of-the court brief in April calling for the court to hear arguments in the case, describing the panel ruling as disastrous for parents everywhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case has drawn national attention as the battle over parents' rights vs. school curriculums and child autonomy have raged across the country and was often referenced by Gov. Ron DeSantis as one of the reasons for the creation of Florida's 2022 Parental Rights in Education Bill, often derided by critics as the "Don't Say Gay" bill. In March, January Littlejohn was a special guest of first lady Melania Trump for President Donald Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress in Washington, D.C., where Trump applauded her for being a "courageous advocate" for parental rights fighting against what he called "child abuse." "Stories like this are why I signed an executive order banning public schools from indoctrinating our children with transgender ideology," Trump said as he introduced Littlejohn more than an hour into his national address. Here's what to know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fact check: Trump's January Littlejohn story about secret gender transition needs context Why did January and Jeffrey Littlejohn sue Leon County Schools? In 2020, before the start of the new school year at Deerlake Middle School in Tallahassee, the Littlejohns 13-year-old child asked to socially transition at school with a male name, "J," and they and them pronouns, court records show. January Littlejohn told the child's teacher that they did not allow the child to use a different name or pronouns at home, although they permitted "J" as a nickname at school. According to emails obtained by The Tallahassee Democrat, Littlejohn told the teacher that although they hadn't changed what they call the child at home, "If she wants to go by the name (redacted) with her teachers, I wont stop her." When the teacher asked if they could share the info with other teachers, Littlejohn replied, "Whatever you think is best or (redacted) can handle it herself." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a later email the same day, she said "This gender situation has thrown us for a loop. I sincerely appreciate your support. Im going to let her take the lead on this." The child confirmed to a school counselor a desire for the changes. The school counselor and other school staff met with the child to create a Student Support Plan. The Littlejohns were not notified because the child did not expressly request their presence, which was required at the time. The school district's LGBTQ+ guide in use in 2020 instructed staff not to notify parents if a child's behavior led them to believe the child was LGBTQ+, saying "Outing a student, especially to parents, can be very dangerous to the student's health and well-being. Some students are not able to be out at home because their parents are unaccepting of LGBTQ+ people out." Two months later, after the school repeatedly refused to disclose the details of the Student Support Plan per law, the Littlejohns sued the Leon County School Board, Superintendent Rocky Hanna, and Robin Oliveri, the assistant principal at Deerlake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They did not dispute the legality of the LGBTQ+ guide, but alleged that the school officials violated the Littlejohns rights by excluding them from conversations about their child's gender identity, especially since the parents brought the topic up with the child's teacher in the first place. The lawsuit asked for damages and for the district to change its LGBTQ+ guide. Littlejohns' case inspires Florida's Parents Rights in Education Bill The case came as conservative activists and politicians were working to eliminate what DeSantis refers to as "woke ideology" in schools. Florida passed the Parental Rights in Education Act (HB 1557), which (among other things): Prohibits teachers from mentioning gender identity and sexual orientation in school lessons through the third grade, later extended through grade 12. This was later expanded through the 12th grade with an exemption for sexual education or health lessons, which parents can opt their children out of. Bans undefined discussions that aren't "age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate in the remaining grades Allows any parent to sue a school district over objectionable curriculums, with the district paying the bill Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis frequently mentioned the Littlejohns' case when discussing the need for the bill, which was one of several new laws targeting LGBTQ+ expression in Florida schools and gender-affirming care for minors. Another, HB 1069, strictly defined "sex" based on two biological roles, blocked the use of pronouns that do not correspond with an "immutable biological trait," and banned teachers from asking for pronouns or telling students their own if they do not correspond to his or her sex." January Littlejohn, a stay-at-home mom, a licensed mental health counselor and a parents' advocate, has become a regular speaker for Moms for Liberty events and other parental rights organizations. She was standing next to Uthmeier in April when he announced the state's new Office of Parental Rights dedicated to empower parents and protect children. Why did a federal judge rule against January and Jeffrey Littlejohn? In January 2023, U.S. District Judge Mark Walker of the Northern District of Florida dismissed the lawsuit, saying the claims were moot since the school acted in accordance with its LGBTQ+ guide, which was later changed in the summer of 2022 to include parental notification. He suggested a state court, not a federal one, was the best venue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Littlejohns appealed, and in March 2025 a divided federal appeals court ruled against them, saying the school officials' actions did not "shock the conscience." That's a legal test under court precedents for cases that involve a challenge to government executive actions. The child was not physically harmed, much less permanently so, Judge Robin Rosenbaum wrote in the main opinion. Defendants did not remove the Littlejohns child from their custody. And defendants did not force the child to attend a Student Support Plan meeting, to not invite the Littlejohns to that meeting, or to socially transition at school. In fact, defendants did not force the Littlejohns child to do anything at all. And perhaps most importantly, defendants did not act with intent to injure, she added. To the contrary, they sought to help the child. Under these circumstances, even if the Littlejohns felt that defendants efforts to help their child were misguided or wrong, the mere fact that the school officials acted contrary to the Littlejohns wishes does not mean that their conduct shocks the conscience in a constitutional sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Littlejohns kept trying. On July 17, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied a request for the full court to reconsider the earlier decision. What is Florida law about students who wish to socially transition? Under the different Florida laws on schools, children are allowed to socially transition and use whatever name or pronoun they like among their peers. However, parents or guardians must be informed this is happening. Teachers and school staff may not use any pronouns for a child that do not correspond with the child's 'immutable biological trait" at birth. They also may not refer to a child by anything other than the child's legal name without the express permission from a parent or guardian. Teachers and school staff also may not ask any student to provide a preferred pronoun or offer their preferredpersonal title or pronouns if such personal title or pronouns do not correspond to that persons sex." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Ana Goni-Lessan, Tallahassee Democrat; News Service of Florida This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida schools LGBTQ+ guide lawsuit fails. Here's here's why With Florida's annual Burmese python hunt wrapping up Sunday (July 20) at 5 p.m., the next phase of the 2025 competition will be the announcement of the winners, including the $10,000 grand prize recipient for most pythons caught. According to Lisa Thompson, spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, this year's winners will be announced "in a few weeks after all data has been processed and verified." A total of $25,000 in prize money will be distributed to winners in three categories professional, novice and military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Florida python hunter describes python bite: 'Like a mouthful of hypodermic needles' How many hunters participated in the 2025 Florida Python Challenge? This year's competition started at 12:01 a.m. on July 11 at eight competition locations. Thompson said there were 933 total registered participants this year coming from two countries (U.S. and Canada). That was up from 857 participants in 2025. "And we had 30 states represented (including Florida)," Thompson said. Florida Python Challenge 2024 results. 195 pythons removed Last year, according to FWC, 195 Burmese pythons were removed. Ronald Kiger (20 Burmese pythons removed) was the 2024 Grand Prize winner. How serious is the python problem in Florida? Burmese pythons have wrought destruction in the Florida Everglades. They've contributed to the decline of small mammals including raccoons, opossums, bobcats, foxes, marsh rabbits and cottontail rabbits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent study revealed that Burmese pythons can eat prey much larger than previously reported. Scientists observed a Burmese python swallowing a 77-pound white-tailed deer, nearly 70 percent of the snakes mass. What is the Florida Python Challenge? The Florida Python Challenge is a ten-day competition encouraging participants to remove Burmese pythons from seven Commission-managed lands in South Florida. According to FWC, the event is held to raise public awareness about invasive species in Florida, like Burmese pythons, that are a threat to the Everglades ecosystem. Where was the 2025 Florida Python Challenge held? The Florida Python Challenge took place at these eight competition locations: Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area Everglades National Park Frog Pond North Public Small Game Hunting Area Holey Land Wildlife Management Area Rocky Glades Public Small Game Hunting Area Rotenberger Wildlife Management Area Florida Python Challenge 2025 prizes Along with the$10,000 top prize for the most pythons caught, this is the breakdown by category: Professional Category Most Pythons Professional Category $2,500 Most Pythons Professional Category Runner Up $1,500 Longest Python Professional Category $1,000 Novice Category Most Pythons Novice Category $2,500 Most Pythons Novice Category Runner Up $1,500 Longest Python Novice Category $1,000 Military Category Most Pythons Military Category $2,500 Most Pythons Military Category Runner Up $1,500 Longest Python Military Category $1,000 Burmese pythons in Florida must be humanely killed If you catch a Burmese python in Florida, you must humanely kill the snake where it was captured. Transporting live pythons is not allowed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two steps must be completed to kill a python humanely: Step 1 - Target the brain: The application of the tool should immediately result in the python losing consciousness. Draw an imaginary line between each eye and opposite jawbone. The brain is located where the two lines intersect. Apply the tool to the target area (brain) to achieve an immediate loss of consciousness. Step 2- Destroy the brain: Immediately and substantially destroy the pythons brain by manually pithing which prevents the python from regaining consciousness. How many Burmese pythons are in Florida? "Burmese pythons are hard to find due to their cryptic coloration and secretive behaviors, and their low detection probability is a major challenge to effective python control and research," according to Florida Fish and Wildlife. However, conservative estimates by the USGS put the Burmese python population in the Florida Everglades region in the tens of thousands. Can Burmese pythons ever be removed from Florida? Because Burmese pythons are distributed across more than a thousand square miles of southern Florida, including all of Everglades National Park and across the southern coast, the chances of completely eliminating the snake from Florida is low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Controlling their numbers and preventing their spread out of the area are critical goals for conservation efforts and land managers, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida pythons: How many snakes caught in 2025 Everglades Challenge? Florida Virtual School (FLVS) will offer 13 new online courses in 2025-26, expanding flexible learning across Florida. The new courses offer various electives, languages, and accelerated programs to help students explore interests before higher education or work. Florida Virtual School remains a top provider of flexible and high-quality online education, helping families make informed educational choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We believe students thrive when they have the freedom to explore subjects that truly interest them, said Dr. Louis Algaze, president and CEO of Florida Virtual School. Jaimi Gruler, senior manager of elementary curriculum development at FLVS, described the new music suite as a showcase of how music education can inspire creativity, collaboration, and lifelong passion. Key features include a vibrant K-5 Music Suite, two Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses, and an Advanced Placement World Language course. The Elementary Music Suite aims to spark creativity in young students through activities such as singing, movement, musical literacy, and cultural exploration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High school students can take courses such as Business Ownership, a component of the Entrepreneurship Program of Study, and Machine Learning and Applications, which examines artificial intelligence and machine learning. Advanced Placement courses such as AP Spanish Language & Culture, AP Physics 1, and AP Psychology provide college-level rigor along with real-world relevance. The new offerings include elective courses like Creative Writing 1 and advanced world language courses such as French 4 Honors. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. ISTANBUL Following the latest clashes in Syria, the Syrian regime has officially requested support from Turkey. At a press briefing held on July 23, officials at the Turkish Ministry of National Defence responded to questions regarding the recent clashes in the Syrian city of Suwayda and Israeli strikes on Damascus. Israels intensified attacks in recent weeks have increased tensions between the Druze community and the Damascus regime, particularly in the southern Suwayda region, a defense official said. Turkey remains firmly committed to supporting Syrias territorial integrity, ensuring regional stability, and combating terrorist organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials stated that the Syrian administration has formally asked Turkey for assistance in boosting its defense capabilities and countering terrorist groups, particularly ISIS. In response, Turkey is working to provide training, advisory, and technical support aimed at enhancing Syrias overall defense capacity. Turkeys primary objective is to support Syrias political unity and territorial integrity and to take a leading role in efforts to establish lasting peace in the region, according to officials here. The statements suggest that Turkeys support will focus not on deploying additional troops to Syria, but rather on enabling the Syrian armed forces to become self-sufficient through institutional and operational capacity-building. Bap, bap ba ba bap bap bap. Around 1 p.m. on a recent Thursday afternoon, 90-year-old Sophia Vann heard a knock on her front door. Standing on the steps of the longtime Gary residents Miller home was a very familiar face: former Gary Mayor Jerome Prince, holding a lunch bag filled with food. This visit has no political agenda. Instead, Prince has been a Meals on Wheels volunteer for over two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meals on Wheels Northwest Indiana, a mobile food service, delivers premade meals to communities across Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, Stark, Pulaski and LaPorte counties. Founded in 1977, the future of the program has taken on new meaning for its leaders, given the expected federal cuts to food stamps and other social safety nets to address hunger among people with low and fixed incomes. Out of the seven counties the group serves, Gary requires the highest amount of meal deliveries, said Ryan Elinkowski, CEO of the local organization. Elinkowski told Capital B Gary that 107,000 meals were delivered in the city last year. While the organization services communities nationwide, in food deserts like Gary, increased access to affordable, nutritious food can make a world of difference, Elinkowski said. Nearly 70,000 people in Lake County experience food insecurity, according to food bank network Feeding America. For Garys elderly-majority community many of whom are on fixed incomes paying for healthy meals can be a struggle, according to a 2023 Methodist Hospital Community Health Needs Assessment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we have the most sophisticated charitable food giving system in the entire world, here in the United States, Elinkowski said. Yet we have so many folks that are food insecure, and people not understanding what that really means. Prince said that Gary, as an underserved community, grapples with a mix of economic shortfalls that lead to a slew of insecurities, adding that food is one of them. As many residents depend on Social Security benefits, access to nutritious, and affordable food is just one of the ways that they need assistance, Prince said. Meals on Wheels offers 10 routes throughout Gary, making stops at three community sites Glen Park, YWCA, and Genesis Towers and nearly 400 individual homes, including Vanns single-story red brick house. As a recipient of the meals for about two years, Vann said she had grown familiar with the organization through her family. Spanning a generation, she initially used the delivery service for her mother, her husband, and now, herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a hug, and a few minutes catching up, Prince dropped off her food, waved goodbye, and smiled. Dozens of volunteers prepare made-from-scratch meals to be delivered to thousands of area residents. (Javonte Anderson/Capital B) To find him doing civic duty like this, I think its amazing, Vann said of the former mayor. Hes very prompt, very friendly, and I just enjoy talking to him. All the volunteers are friendly. Prince, who volunteers at least once a week, began in 2023, after the most recent mayoral election, where he was defeated by Gary Mayor Eddie Melton. I started right after the election of 2023, and I mention that because I didnt want to do it coming up to an election, because I really believe in the work, and I didnt want anyone to perceive that I was doing it to boost my political profile, said Prince, who was mayor from 2020 to 2023. (Last year, Prince pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds, and was sentenced to a year of probation and ordered to pay a $26,750 fine earlier this year.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im completely committed to this organization, and its because of people like this. Over time, as he delivered meals in the Miller neighborhood and other parts of Gary, he said he got to know residents like Vann on a personal level. He added that he turned each delivery into a wellness check. I think the meals are important to folks, he said. Everyone needs nutrition. But what Ive discovered is that its also about a relationship or just an extra person touching them and just to say Good morning, with a smile and ask about them. I think oftentimes it is more important than the meal. Jen Okamura, director of development for the organization, said the deliveries provide nutrition and combat social isolation. Okamura said one of the drivers said theres a woman who gets dressed up just to receive her Meals on Wheels. She added that it gives her something to look forward to every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The operation, based 20 minutes outside of Gary in an office in Merrillville, delivers 2,100 meals a day across the counties they serve. The organization has about a 55-person staff, and more than 500 volunteers, but are always in need of more, Okamura said. The meals are delivered Monday through Friday. All meals are cooked in-house by professional chefs in the organizations industrial-grade kitchen, with ingredients that are sourced from local farmers and growers. The meals are tailored to fit the nutrition needs of every part of the food group. They usually come with a choice of protein, like meatballs, or pepper steak, and are paired with a grain like rice pilaf, and include vegetables, fruits, a dinner roll, and milk or juice. Volunteers package the food fresh out of the oven, and load it on to fleets of vans that wait to deliver the meals. Volunteers stock coolers filled with food for distribution across the region. (Javonte Anderson/Capital B) Back at Vanns house, todays meal was the 90-year-olds favorite: Cajun catfish. Itll last her until dinner time, she says, when her daughter can come over to help prepare her evening meal. Until then, visits from volunteers like Prince have helped fill the gap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its a wonderful organization, Vann said. Because they dont have to do this, its a blessing that we have people to volunteer. A previous version of this article misstated the founding date of Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana. It was founded in 1977, not 1954. The post With Food Aid at Risk, Meals on Wheels Steps Up in Gary appeared first on Capital B Gary. A forensic science examiner performs an analysis at the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. Some state labs face yearslong backlogs across a range of cases, including those requiring DNA and ballistics analysis delays that, in some communities, are stalling court proceedings and leaving victims waiting for answers. (Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Division of Scientific Services) Across the country, state and local crime labs are drowning in evidence. From rape kits to drug samples to vials of blood, delays in forensic testing are stalling prosecutions, stretching court calendars and forcing impossible choices about what gets tested and what doesnt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, as the need for forensic testing grows, state and local crime labs may face steep federal funding cuts that could further delay justice for victims, derail criminal investigations and overwhelm already backlogged systems. Two key federal grant programs that support state and local forensic labs are at risk: One faces a major cut, while the other is funded below its authorized cap despite growing demand. The proposed cuts have alarmed forensic experts and crime lab directors who say some labs rely heavily on these federal grants to keep up with mounting caseloads. That would have dire consequences on a lot of crime laboratories who depend on those funds for maintaining operations, said Scott Hummel, the president of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, a national nonprofit professional organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you limit those resources even further, there will be backlogs, said Hummel, who also works as a quality assurance manager at the Kansas City Police Crime Laboratory in Missouri. Those backlogs just keep growing and growing, and labs are forced to make difficult decisions on how they prioritize their casework. When labs fall behind Crime labs are often invisible to the public but essential to criminal investigations. They test DNA, analyze drug samples, match ballistics and verify evidence in everything from rape cases to gun homicides. The evidence may lead to arrests, but its also critical in court, shaping outcomes for victims, defendants, prosecutors and defense attorneys alike. But years of underinvestment have left many labs without enough scientists, equipment and funding to keep up. As forensic technology has advanced particularly in digital evidence and DNA testing demand also has risen sharply. As technology gets better, theres an expectation, I think, that labs can do more than they have the capacity for, Hummel said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, new state laws and testing mandates are increasing pressure on already strained labs. In some states, changes in drug laws such as renewed crackdowns on marijuana or stricter DUI thresholds have led to a surge in requests for toxicology and drug analysis. Other states have expanded mandatory evidence testing requirements, often without providing additional funding. Some lab directors who spoke with Stateline said that even well-intentioned policies can create bottlenecks when resources dont keep pace with demand. Its important for policymakers to realize that the criminal justice system is demanding more from us, and so we need the resources to keep up with the increased demand, said James Carroll, the crime laboratory director with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Low pay is also a challenge, with some analysts opting for private-sector jobs that offer higher salaries and better benefits. Training new analysts can take months or even years, making it difficult to quickly fill critical positions and retain experienced staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have to be absolutely perfect, and if you have something that isnt perfect, that can be a career ruiner, said Mike Lyttle, the assistant director of the forensic services division at the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. That is a lot of pressure. But that pressure can come at a cost especially when analysts bear the brunt of it. Lab directors and managers who spoke with Stateline said that overworking staff is not only inappropriate, but also risky. It can lead to quality issues, including dry labbing, or fabricated results, which could call hundreds or even thousands of cases into question. As delays mount across the country, some state and local governments are rethinking how their crime labs are structured and funded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its important for policymakers to realize that the criminal justice system is demanding more from us, and so we need the resources to keep up with the increased demand. James Carroll, crime laboratory director with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department In Colorado, officials are dealing with the aftermath of a major DNA testing scandal involving state-run labs, and several new laws have been enacted to establish a review board and address backlogs. Lawmakers in Rhode Island considered a bill earlier this year that would have shifted oversight of its state crime lab to the state attorney generals office, but the bill was tabled for further study. In Shelby County, Tennessee, a new $1.5 million investment will go toward the regions first local lab focused on rapid DNA analysis, digital forensics and weapons ballistics. Memphis City Council officials also are working on funding at least two new positions at a state laboratory to prioritize cases from the Memphis area. Hard choices The national push to test sexual assault kits has helped bring attention to forensic evidence backlogs. But in some labs, it has also forced tough choices about what gets tested first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Oregon, for example, Brian Medlock, the director of the state police forensic science division, announced in January that the state lab had halted DNA analysis for all property crime evidence. Testing wont resume until the sexual assault kit backlog is cleared a goal the agency doesnt expect to meet until the end of the year. As of June, 474 sexual assault kits were still awaiting testing, according to the states dashboard. Like Oregon, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation also is deprioritizing nonviolent cases as it works through its rape kit backlog. The agency currently has six forensic biology analysts in training across the state, limiting how many cases it can process, according to Lyttle. The goal is to eventually process lower-priority cases, he said, but the current focus remains on sexual assault kits. Still, Lyttle acknowledged that delaying the analysis of evidence in nonviolent cases can be a missed opportunity. Uploading DNA profiles from those cases to the national database, CODIS, could help identify offenders earlier potentially before they go on to commit more serious crimes. You may be losing people early because youre deprioritizing those nonviolent cases and not getting them identified as quickly as you could, he said. Every case is important. Looming cuts Trump has proposed slashing one major forensic science grant program and holding funding flat for another a combination that some officials fear could worsen evidence backlogs amid rising demand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program, which aims to help labs replace aging equipment, train staff and reduce case backlogs, would be cut by 71% under President Donald Trumps proposed fiscal year 2026 budget from $35 million to $10 million. Another, the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program, would receive $120 million under the proposal below the $151 million cap authorized by Congress in 2023. While Congress can approve up to that amount, it often allocates less: $130 million in fiscal year 2023, and $120 million in both fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The program helps labs process backlogged evidence, including sexual assault kits, and supports the expansion of the national DNA database, CODIS. These proposals are part of the administrations annual discretionary budget request; Congress must finalize federal agency yearly spending by Sept. 30. Presidential budget proposals are often reshaped by Congress, but Trumps spending plans have found strong backing among Republicans on Capitol Hill. With the GOP holding majorities in both chambers, proposals to cut or limit funding for forensic science programs may be more likely to advance. A state in crisis and a model for change The Colorado Bureau of Investigations crime labs are under intense scrutiny following a major DNA testing scandal and widespread staffing shortages that have slowed down forensic work across the board. The bureau is facing backlogs in every discipline or type of case, according to Lance Allen, a deputy director who oversees forensic services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of the current crisis stems from the case of Yvonne Missy Woods, a former DNA scientist now facing more than 100 criminal charges for allegedly manipulating DNA results over her 30-year career. Her alleged misconduct, combined with long-standing understaffing issues, has led to severe delays. As of June, the average turnaround time for processing sexual assault kits in Colorado was 570 days, or about 1 1/2 years, with more than 1,200 kits still awaiting testing, according to the states dashboard. The agencys goal is to reduce that timeline to 90 days. We are not satisfied with this turnaround time either, and this backlog is also unacceptable to us, and we know we have to do better, Allen told Stateline. But the backlog isnt limited to sexual assault cases. Blood alcohol testing has also slowed dramatically, according to defense attorney Matthew Haltzman, who said he has handled cases in which results took five to six months to come back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that time, he said, even clients who were ultimately found not to be intoxicated were forced to navigate the court system attending hearings, undergoing weekly drug and alcohol testing and complying with pretrial supervision. Its just a lose-lose for everybody in the legal process, but more so for the accused than anyone else, Haltzman said. Its a massive deprivation of liberty. The current turnaround time for all toxicology tests is 99 days, or just over three months, according to Vanessa Beall, the Colorado bureaus toxicology program manager. About 80% of cases are completed within that time frame or less, and all toxicology tests include blood alcohol and drug analysis. With additional toxicologists, the bureau is already meeting its 2025 goal and aims to reduce that turnaround time to 70 days by the end of 2026. This year, the bureau and state lawmakers have rolled out measures aimed at restoring trust in the system. Those efforts include sending more than 1,000 rape kits to private labs to reduce turnaround times, expanding staff training programs and establishing a review board within the state attorney generals office to improve oversight. Lawmakers also approved $3 million to support outsourcing and lab operations, along with a separate law requiring the reporting of misconduct within Colorados state-run forensic laboratories. Meanwhile, Connecticut is drawing national attention for its consistent performance and growing capabilities. Once plagued by serious issues including a suspended accreditation in 2011 that disrupted criminal proceedings Connecticuts forensic lab has steadily strengthened its operations. This year, it earned a perfect accreditation score for the third year in a row. Following its accreditation loss, the lab faced a backlog of 12,000 cases, and by 2013, turnaround times stretched up to 2 1/2 years. Today, the average turnaround is just 20 days across all disciplines. DNA cases, including those involving sexual assault evidence, are typically processed in about 27 days. Firearms cases take about 35 days, and computer crimes about 60, according to Guy Vallaro, the director of the Connecticut Division of Scientific Services. He credits much of the labs progress to its team of scientists and staff, who he says are deeply committed to both accuracy and improvement. When you have a good staff, you can do incredible things, Vallaro said. Stateline reporter Amanda Hernandez can be reached at ahernandez@stateline.org. 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 BOSTON (AP/QUEEN CITY NEWS) A former American Airlines flight attendant who pleaded guilty to secretly recording a teen in a plane bathroom will spend over 18 years (222 months) in prison. Estes Carter Thompson III of Charlotte pled guilty back in March to one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children and one count of possession of images of child sexual abuse depicting a prepubescent minor. Thompson had secretly recorded a 14-year-old girl using the airplane bathroom and had recordings of four other girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to investigators, the girl got up to use the main cabin lavatory during a Sept. 2, 2023, flight from Charlotte to Boston, but it was occupied. Thompson told her the first-class lavatory was unoccupied and escorted her there. She later told investigators that before she entered the bathroom, Thompson told her he needed to wash his hands and that the toilet seat was broken. After he left, the teen entered the bathroom and saw red stickers on the underside of the toilet seat lid, which was in the open position, officials said, with the words written in black ink and all caps, inoperative catering equipment, remove from service, and seat broken. Beneath the stickers, Thompson had concealed his iPhone to record a video, investigators said. The girl used her phone to take a picture of the stickers and concealed her iPhone before leaving. FILE In this photo provided by the law firm Lewis & Llewellyn LLP, an iPhone is taped to the back of a toilet seat on an American Airlines flight from Charlotte, N.C., to Boston, Sept. 2, 2023. Estes Carter Thompson III, an American Airlines flight attendant arrested on suspicion of trying to secretly record a 14-year-old female passenger using an airplane bathroom last September 2023, is being held in custody until his trial.(Lewis & Llewellyn LLP via AP, File) American Airlines said following his arrest that Thompson was immediately withheld from service and hadnt worked for the airline since the phone was discovered. Prosecutors also allege that their investigation turned up hundreds of images in Thompsons iCloud account of child sexual abuse generated through artificial intelligence, as well as the images of the other four girls captured on earlier flights using the aircraft lavatories. They were ages 7, 9, 11 and 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say he waived his right to appeal the sentence because of the guilty plea. Following his prison sentence, Thompson will serve five years of supervised release. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BARRINGTON, R.I. (WPRI) A third allegation of misconduct involving a Barrington school bus monitor has been reported, 12 News has learned. Barrington Public Schools informed families Monday of the latest incident, which involves the same monitor accused last month of inappropriately touching two students. BACKGROUND: Barrington School Committee discusses disturbing allegations against bus monitor Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are angered by this revelation and understand the profound heartbreak and anger it causes for the families of the students involved as well as throughout our school community, the district wrote in a letter to families. All three reported incidents allegedly occurred on the same special education route. The district said it initially withheld that detail out of privacy concerns, but chose to disclose it for full transparency. These are deeply serious allegations that strike at the heart of the trust families place in our schools, the letter stated. The bus monitor, employed by Ocean State Transit since 2022, was placed on leave following the first allegation and has since been permanently removed from the district along with the bus driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barrington Public Schools said another police report was filed with the R.I. Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), and that the district remains in full cooperation with ongoing law enforcement and Title IX investigations. In response to the allegations, the Barrington School Committee voted earlier this month to end its contract with Ocean State Transit. MORE: Barrington ends contract with Ocean State Transit, superintendent resigns The district also created a new director of transportation role to oversee investigations, manage the search for a new provider and review safety protocols. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are continuing to demand and review all employment, training and background documentation from Ocean State Transit related to this employee, the letter said. The district is further evaluating every aspect of its transportation safety practices. Police confirmed last month that one of the reports is being investigated as a possible second-degree sexual assault. Its unclear if any charges have been filed at this time. An internal investigation is underway with the help of an attorney, which is a process the distrcit said will take time. The school committee previously acknowledged that an overhaul of district protocols is necessary. Simultaneously, the district is dealing with leadership changes following the sudden resignation of Superintendent Robert Wargo on June 30. The committee appointed former Barrington High School principal Christopher Ashley as acting superintendent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SEE ALSO: Barrington hires attorney for bus monitor investigation amid superintendent shakeup Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: 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. Screenshot of former Brevard County School Board member Jennifer Jenkins appearing on C-SPAN on June 19, 2024. Jennifer Jenkins, a former Brevard County school board member and founder of an organization designed to weaken conservative influence in local education policy, says she is considering entering the Democratic race for U.S. Senate next year in Florida. The seat is held by Republican Ashley Moody, appointed to the position by Gov. Ron DeSantis in January. It was formerly held by Marco Rubio who resigned the post to serve as President Donald Trumps secretary of state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenkins, 38, served for one term on the school board, from 2020 to 2024. For the past year, shes headed a political committee called Educated. We Stand. She created the committee to support school board candidates in battleground states and to beat back the conservative education policies promulgated by organizations like Moms For Liberty. Im seriously considering it, Jenkins told the Phoenix on Monday about entering the Senate race. Its something that Im not taking lightly. Ive thought about this for the last several years. Ive been entrenched in the fight for our public schools and meeting with grassroots Democrats and people across Florida, and I keep hearing the same thing over and over again that people are sick and tired of people in power making excuses to not use that power to help regular people. And I keep getting asked the same question, if Im going to run for Senate. So, I am having conversations with my family and the people closest to me who I trust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenkins said she doesnt have a specific timetable for her decision. To close observers of the Florida political scene, there is a sense of deja vu to all of this. In late spring 2023, Jennings said she was considering entering the 2024 Senate race against Republican incumbent Rick Scott. She ultimately did not. Former South Florida U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell was the Democratic nominee, losing to Scott by 13 points. Moms for Liberty Co-founder Tina Descovich (photo via Moms for Liberty website) Jenkins tenure on the school board was marked by dramatic moments. An elementary school speech pathologist, she was elected to the board in a stunning upset victory over incumbent Tina Descovich, who would go on to co-found Moms for Liberty. (Gov. Ron DeSantis reappointed Descovich earlier this year to the Florida Commission on Ethics). In a red district, Jenkins won by nearly double digits that summer; Donald Trump won Brevard County that November by more than 16 points. Threats and harassment That was the year that COVID-19 hit America, and Jenkins became a target of some conservatives for her advocacy for wearing masks on school campuses and supporting LGBTQ students. The only Democrat on a nonpartisan board, she received threats and harassment, an experience she described during a Democratic Party rally in Tampa in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I was sworn into office, I never expected that I would have the personal battle that I had, she said. Protests in front of my home. The vandalism on my property. Three-foot F-U letters burned into my lawn. Be followed by private investigators. Slanderous websites. Jenkins said she was only going to serve one term and that decision was cemented for her when her (and another school board members) seat was redrawn during redistricting. Florida Today wrote in 2023 that the redrawn seats were held by the two members who most often vote against the new right-leaning majority. The episode inspired the founding of Educated. We Stand. Originally, when I first ran for office, I literally was an educator who was sick and tired of being paid so poorly with my husband, living paycheck to paycheck, being unable to prepare and save for my own daughters college and future. And so thats why I stood up and fairly quickly got thrust into what we see as the war on public education now, and it inspired me to stand up for my community and to be a loud, outspoken activist, Jenkins said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Towards the end of my term though, I never intended to run again but I did shift through the experiences that I had some of them pretty horrific. I told myself there had to be a bigger why. There had to be a bigger why about why I had to go through that heartache and that experience with my family, and I felt like I needed to step up and do something bigger and continue to spread the message and advocate for public education. The Democratic field The only major Florida Democrat to enter the Senate race for 2026 so far is Josh Weil, the Orlando educator who raised nearly $15 million in his losing bid to Republican Randy Fine in the special congressional election in Floridas 6th Congressional District earlier this year. Another potential candidate is retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel Alexander Vindman, whose testimony before Congress helped lead to President Donald Trumps first impeachment trial. Hes now a resident of Broward County and has told reporters recently that, like Jennings, he is considering entering the contest. Jenkins says she understands its a challenging environment for Democrats in a state where Republicans hold a more than 1.3 million lead in voter registration, but believes the party more than ever needs people to fight for everyday families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im tired of hearing that Florida is a lost cause, because I dont believe that and I dont want to be told that because thats my familys future were talking about and I dont want to hear that my familys future isnt worth fighting for, she said. I was a minority voice here in Brevard County. I still won by 10 points in the year that Donald Trump won by 17. I know whats possible when people show up and they speak out and they organize. We can win because everyday people care about what connects us and whats best for our families, not whats best for a political party thats next to their registration on their voter registration card. So, I do believe its possible. I do think that we need someone who is authentic and willing to push back and tell it like it is and to be a fighter and just connect people as people. The winner of next Augusts Democratic Senate primary will most likely face Moody in the general election, as the former state attorney general is not expected to face any serious opponents in her race for the Republican nomination next year. Moody has raised more than $2 million in her regular campaign account, and another federal super PAC aligned with her candidacy has raised $7 million, according to NBC News. The winner of the 2026 Senate race will finish the last two years of Rubios term, then could run for re-election in 2028. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A judge on Tuesday ordered a man who has been on death row in the Utah State Prison for about 40 years to be transferred to the Utah County Jail, noting that he is no longer considered guilty after his conviction and sentence were overturned. Douglas Stewart Carter, 69, was convicted of the aggravated murder of Eva Olesen and sentenced to death in 1985. In May of this year, the Utah Supreme Court affirmed a district court decision from 4th District Judge Derek Pullan that his trial should be vacated and that the district court should hold a new trial. They determined there were serious constitutional violations during the first trial, including suppressing evidence and witnesses who had been given more money than was disclosed to the court or Carters attorneys. The witnesses later reported they were pressured to lie in court. Death penalty possibility confirmed Eva Olesens husband found her body in her home in Provo on Feb. 27, 1985. She had her hands tied behind her back and her clothing removed from the waist down. She had been stabbed 10 times and shot in the back of the head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was convicted in 1985 of murder, a capital offense, and the jury found two aggravating factors the murder occurred during the commission of aggravated burglary and in an especially heinous, atrocious, cruel or exceptionally depraved manner. Utah County attorneys filed a notice last week that they do intend to seek the death penalty at the new trial. This case now stands in the position it was some 40 years ago pending a trial for the aggravated murder of Eva Oleson, prosecutors said in the notice. It explained that the requirements for notice that prosecutors are seeking the death penalty which applied when Carter was charged would not require them to file this notice, but they decided to do so in an abundance of caution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last few months as attorneys have been chosen to represent Carter, the case has been treated as if the death penalty was being sought as the judge assigned attorneys who are certified to handle death penalty cases. A different type of case During Tuesdays hearing, there was a moment that got more heated than is usual in court as attorneys talked over each other, leading Pullan to say, Counsel, thats enough. The dispute was over a motion from prosecutors to release exhibits to the Provo Police Department for more investigation. Assistant attorney general Erwin Petilos explained that the police would take them to the crime lab where they could redo the lab work with current science. He said the county could do this, and asked to clarify if the objection was about the Provo Police Department touching the evidence in the case. Richard Gale, Carters attorney, confirmed that their reason for objecting to the motion was not wanting the Provo Police Department involved in the investigation at all. He said they would like investigations to go through a different law enforcement agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were found to have the misconduct in the past, Gale said. Petilos began questioning whether it mattered when the detective handling it would not have been there 40 years ago, and none of the people at the department would have been there 40 years ago. At that point, Carters attorney, Neal Hamilton, interjected to request that the conversation should be done by email to not bother others in the virtual courtroom. After Hamilton interrupted Petilos, the judge made his comment putting an end to the conversation. Later, he instructed the attorneys to be aware that the court record in a death penalty case is important and they should speak respectfully and not speak over each other. As each of you know, death cases are different than any kind of litigation in the criminal justice system, he said. Whats next? Pullan ruled that Carter should be moved to the jail forthwith, so he will likely be transferred to his new location soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gale said he has spoken with the jail, and they will be able to accommodate Carters many legal documents, including giving him his own space, and conversations with his attorneys something Carter asked about in an earlier hearing. Hamilton said they filed a motion requesting another preliminary hearing or asking the judge to again rule on whether there is enough evidence for the case to move to trial. Petilos had not yet read the motion but may contest the request. He expressed an understanding that although the verdict from the jury trial was overturned, the original preliminary hearing should stand. Petilos also said he plans to file a motion requesting a DNA sample from Carter. Each of the pending motions are scheduled to be considered in a hearing on Sept. 2. At that point, the judge could decide if the case should be scheduled for a preliminary hearing or a jury trial. A former Forsyth County prosecutor has been named the new U.S. attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. Clifton T. Cliff Barrett took the oath of office Monday at the L. Richardson Preyer Federal Building in Greensboro. Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Barrett as the interim U.S. attorney on June 21. I am honored to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina and thank President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for placing their trust in me, Barrett said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barrett is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the Middle District of North Carolina, which covers 24 counties in the central part of the state from Durham County on the east to Yadkin County on the west, and from the Virginia state line on the north to the South Carolina state line on the south. Approximately 3 million people live in the district. Barrett joined the Department of Justice as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Middle District of North Carolina in September 1994 after working as an assistant district attorney for nine years in Forsyth County primarily prosecuting violent criminal cases. Barrett received his bachelors degree in history in 1982 and his law degree in 1985, both from Wake Forest University. A former Floyd County deputy was arrested earlier this month after deputies in Panama City Beach, Florida, say he threatened to stab someone at a beachside condominium. On Friday, July 11, a deputy responded to the Regency Towers rental condominiums in Panama City Beach after someone called 911, reporting that a man was sitting in their beach chair and refusing to leave. As a deputy arrived at the scene, dispatch told them that the man threatened to stab people, but no one saw any weapons on him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the deputy explained that he couldnt sit in a beach chair that someone else had purchased and asked him to move, the man refused. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] After other deputies arrived, and they tried to get him to move, he continued to refuse. When deputies tried to take him into custody, they say he pushed at a deputys arm to try to get away, began to jerk his arms away, and tuck them underneath him. Once they had him in handcuffs, a deputy asked him his name, and he replied, John Doe. Deputies then spoke with the victim, who showed deputies that the man had broken two beach chairs while resisting arrest. Deputies say he also drank a $15 alcoholic slushy that the victim had purchased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During their investigation, deputies learned that the man harassed a family sitting with their children, who then called 911, before he walked down to the beach and threatened to stab numerous people. Witnesses said the man was attempting to give money to children in the pool, didnt pay his bar tab, and stood over the family of the children, harassing them. On his way to the Bay County Jail, deputies say the man continued to try to slip out of his handcuffs. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he arrived at the Bay County Jail, deputies discovered he had a handcuff key hidden on his body. When deputies reviewed video footage from inside the patrol vehicle, they said they saw him trying to unlock his handcuffs. Once he was in jail, deputies determined his name was Christopher Adam Cook, a deputy with the Floyd County, Georgia Sheriffs Office. Cook was charged with theft, resisting arrest, possession of a concealed handcuff key while in custody (a felony), providing false ID to a law enforcement officer, and disorderly conduct. When asked for a comment, a representative from the Floyd County Sheriffs Office said, He has resigned from the Floyd County Sheriffs Office. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS/WGHP) Former governor Roy Cooper could soon confirm speculation that hell make a return to public office. An advisor for Cooper told QCN that, he would be making his intentions known in the coming days whether he would announce a run for the U.S. Senate. The 5 Senate seats most likely to flip in 2026 North Carolina will have an opening in Congress in 2026, as senior Sen. Thom Tillis announced earlier this month that he would not seek a third term. The Republicans announcement came amid the passage of President Donald Trumps megabill, with aspects of which he would not support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As his time as governor wound down last year, Cooper was presented as a possible running mate for Kamala Harris in 2024, but ultimately that position went to Governor Tim Walz. Cooper accepted a faculty position with Harvard University, but still introduced Harris as the presidential nominee at the Democratic National Convention. Gov. Josh Stein, who served as attorney general under Cooper, commented on the rumblings of his predecessor. I worked for Roy Cooper when he was attorney general for eight years. I think the world of Roy Cooper, I think he is an amazing person as well as public official, he said. So there is one North Carolina voter who would be thrilled to be able to cast his vote for him, as Roy Coopers decision to make. Well see what he does. Cooper is scheduled to speak at a dinner hosted by the North Carolina Democrats in Raleigh Saturday. Advertisement 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. RALEIGH, N.C. (WGHP) Former Governor Roy Cooper may launch a Senate campaign as early as next week. According to Axios, multiple sources have said that Cooper intends to announce the long-speculated run for the seat currently occupied by Republican Thom Tillis in the United States Senate. Democrats believe Cooper, who served two terms as North Carolinas governor after a stint as the attorney general, has a chance to flip the seat from the Republicans, especially in the wake of Tilliss decision not to seek reelection and his ideological split from Republicans on many issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As his term-limited time as governor wound down, Cooper was presented as a possible vice presidential running mate for Kamala Harris in 2024, but ultimately that position went to Governor Tim Walz and Cooper accepted a position with Harvard. Former Democratic Representative Wiley Nickel has also announced his intention to run in the Senate race, following the redistricting that impacted his time in the House of Representatives. Lara Trump, President Donald Trumps daughter-in-law, has been floated as a potential candidate for the seat on the GOPs side of things. Certainly, Roy Cooper will be able to raise a ton of money just on his past experience, but throw in a competitor with the last name of Trump, and that will probably escalate the money war to an even greater level, said Catawba College Political Science Professor Michael Bitzer. Maybe perhaps the most expensive U.S. Senate seat contest. In terms of this midterm election cycle, we could potentially be breaking the bank in terms of historic records as well. Advertisement 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. HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) A former Marine Corps officer filed a lawsuit against Eurofins Diatherix Laboratories LLC, claiming the company fired him because he disclosed a disability. According to a federal lawsuit filed in the Northern District of Alabama, Peter Carothers filed a lawsuit against his former employer, Eurofins Diatherix Laboratories LLC, claiming they violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. 2 arrested in Scottsboro after officers find drugs, other items in house Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The documents say Carothers is a decorated former infantry officer and Marine Captain who commanded a 60-man platoon in over 30 enemy engagements in Afghanistan. He was later awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for Valor. In 2024, Carothers says he was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In the documents, Carothers says he started out in the corporate sector and was appointed general manager of the Eurofins USA national microbiology laboratory in Kentucky. Then, in February 2021, he was named President of Diatherix Laboratories, LLC, in Huntsville until January 2025. During his employment, the lawsuit says Carothers had an ADA-qualifying disability in the form of PTSD. However, Carothers initially elected not to share the diagnosis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The documents say that in the late summer or early fall of 2024, Carothers told his direct official, Brian Tees, the Senior Vice President of Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics, of his increasing need to have time carved out for clinical visits to the Veterans Administration medical facility. CLICK HERE for News 19s Interactive Radar Carothers says in the lawsuit that after his direct official learned of the reason behind his periodic VA appointments, Tees assigned Brian Grajzar, Vice President of Special Projects, US Clinical Diagnostics, to take over some internal consulting responsibilities. The documents say that after Grajzars assignment, Carothers received feedback from the companys leadership team saying Grajzar was inserting himself into operational decisions without having full comprehension of the laboratorys business model. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carothers, in the lawsuit, says he brought his concerns to Tees about Grajzar, but on multiple occasions, the document says Tees assured that Grajzars portfolio was not a reflection of performance problems on Carothers part. Come January 17, 2025, the federal documents say Carothers sent a detailed email to Timothy Oostdyk, the Group Executive Vice President of Eurofins Scientific, expressing his concerns that Grajzar was becoming a source of major morale issues for the team. The lawsuit says that in the email, Carothers referred to his recent diagnosis as severe PTSD and the negative effect of the conflict between his team and Grajzar was having on his management of the condition. In the email, the documents say Carothers also mentioned that he was in the early stages of therapy and medication. Grand jury finds shooter acted in self-defense, teen accomplice indicted for role in Florence 13-year-olds death Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, on January 21, Carothers said Tees abruptly informed him of his termination on vague performance-based grounds. Before his termination, Carothers says in the lawsuit that he had never been subject to any verbal or written counseling, an improvement plan or even any indication that his job was at stake. Carothers firing in the aftermath of disclosing a serious health condition occurred at a time when a Boston-based Eurofins division president was also being terminated soon after expressing a need to take time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act, the lawsuit says. Documents say that after Carothers filed his charge of discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission investigators asked Eurofins for documentation of any intent to fire Carothers before January 17, the company declined to provide any material that directly or indirectly established that terminating Carothers was in the works prior to his revelation of a mental health impairment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carothers attorney, Artur Davis, with HKM Employment Attorneys LLP, said that when the company learned of Carothers diagnosis, it was as if they left him high and dry. Almost the minute Diatherix learned of his fight with PTSD, this European-owned company abandoned him. They picked the wrong state in which to dishonor a veteran, Davis said. News 19 has reached out to Eurofins to comment on the lawsuit but has yet to receive a response. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Arathy Somasekhar HOUSTON (Reuters) -U.S. oilfield service provider Halliburton on Tuesday said Mexico's oil production decline rates are creating pressure for a reactivation of business amid long delays from state-run Pemex to pay its suppliers. Output of crude and condensate by Pemex, the largest producer in the country, fell 8.4% in May to 1.64 million barrels per day, according to official figures. Oilfield service companies have significantly decreased activities because of the lack of payments from Pemex, the world's most indebted energy company. Halliburton said issues related to payments from Pemex have not been resolved yet. Last week, larger rival service firm SLB said the government and Pemex must address critical issues before there can be a rebound. "We believe we're there. We're just waiting now to see what are the next steps that could help unlock the value of obviously the assets in Mexico and the dynamic of Pemex to rebound from this," SLB's chief executive Olivier Le Peuch said during the company's earnings call. SLB is ready to work closely with Pemex to solve the issues, he added. Last month, the Mexican association that groups foreign oil services companies warned that many of these firms may have to stop operations as early as July. Pemex has an outstanding debt with an extensive list of suppliers and contractors of about $20 billion, in addition to its financial debt of $101 billion, despite the government's billions of dollars in recent years to cover amortizations. In a letter in June, the Mexican Association of Oil Service Companies urged Pemex to process and release billing for services provided last year; guarantee regular billing and timely payment for services this year; and design a payment plan to settle all historical debts owed to companies in the sector. Mexico's oilfield services sector has shrunk significantly due to Pemex's lack of payments, the association said, adding it would not be able to guarantee operational continuity due to cash flow problems. Halliburton, which posted second-quarter earnings on Tuesday, said it expects its full-year international revenue to decline by mid-single digits, year on year, primarily driven by activity reductions in Saudi Arabia and Mexico. (Reporting by Arathy Somasekhar and Tanay Dhumal in Houston; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and David Gregorio) PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A former mayoral candidate is suing the City of St. Helens over unreleased records as demonstrators gathered outside City Hall on Tuesday in a call for transparency. The lawsuit claims the city is blocking the release of records that could implicate its mayor and ex-police chief. Mayor Jennifer Massey denies these claims, but the city has yet to confirm whether these records exist. Kotek calls for special legislative session amid ODOT layoffs, transportation crisis Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney Steve Toschi, a former St. Helens mayoral candidate, said its time to end the coverup and appoint a special prosecutor. Toschi is suing the city for withholding portions of an investigative report into retired Police Chief Brian Greenway. The city just is not releasing the records, and there are records to be released, Toschi said. According to the complaint, It is in the publics interest to know whether its mayor has committed crimes in order to get elected: which may suggest that she can, will, and does take actions which harm the public interests for her personal benefit, and where she and others within and associated with the St. Helens government draw their ethical lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While redacted portions of the report were made public in February, the complaint argues that a second part was not released, including alleged collusion between Greenway and Massey at the time of her candidacy. We had an unprecedented situation with the 24-hour patrol ending, and theres significant information indicating that Ms. Massey and ex-Chief Greenway conspired to do that, which is a criminal act. The unreleased report was first mentioned in former acting Police Chief Joseph Hogues whistleblower lawsuit against the city. In March, Hogue claimed he was retaliated against after reporting an alleged scheme between his boss and Massey to withhold 24-hour police coverage. People were afraid. We thought that we were in danger in this town. And it turns out the whole thing was a political ploy, Toschi said. It was all optics, and theres significant evidence, and they withheld it all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out-of-state women died at Dillon Falls; search continues Mayor Massey denies the claims, and shared the following statement with KOIN 6 News: I firmly deny the false and misleading claims that have been circulated. The Citys selection of a new police chief followed a fair and lawful process, facilitated by our legal counsel. Allegations of criminal conduct are entirely unsubstantiated. I remain committed to transparency, ethical leadership, and serving the people of St. Helens with integrity. Rumors, accusations, and emotion are not facts, this is precisely why due process is essential. Since taking office, I have been the target of continuous political attacks by a small group, including one of my former opponents, who continue to push baseless claims without evidence. Those spreading these accusations count on silence to give them weight, but silence is not proof. I sincerely thank those who continue to support me and my dedication to our citizens and the future of St. Helens. Meanwhile, Toschi is still pushing to have an independent prosecutor assigned. The political ploy is saying, Oh look, hes sour grapes. Thats wrong, he said. This is about something that was very troubling during the election where crimes may have been committed. Neither the city nor the district attorneys office responded to KOIN 6 News repeated 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. The former Memphis Shelby County Schools superintendent testified in court on Tuesday over a termination lawsuit. I came to lead and serve and to do so. With the highest character possible, said Dr. Marie Feagins. Feagins is asking the court to issue a temporary injunction to get her job back as superintendent of Memphis Shelby County Schools. Dr. Marie Feagins in court This hearing comes some six months after she was terminated from her job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I asked for reinstatement because we came to do a job and we have unfinished business, said Feagins. What was addressed in the courtroom goes back to what Dr. Feagins team claims was happening behind the scenes prior to the public knowing anything about her termination. Public business must be conducted in public, said Dr. Feagins attorney. Her team claims that some school board members violated the Tennessee Open Meetings Actholding meetings in secret.In some cases, as early as August, to discuss her termination. Her attorney said some of these discussions with two or more board members happened at restaurants, communications meetings, and even at a birthday party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also had the head of a public relations firm that once worked for the board testify and acknowledge she received a resolution terminating Dr. Feagins, two weeks before a December 17 special-called meeting where the school board was initially set to vote on Feagins termination. The timeline: Feagins fired within months And so my personal knowledge is what I have when I share, to request for reinstatement is about the public. The act itself requires public accountability. It requires transparency, said Dr. Feagins. It requires the public. In this regard, the most important issue of our time and effort will be education to have observation of school governance, operate correctly, or at least attempt to, especially when something so consequential as the removal of the superintendent in the middle of the school year is on the agenda. On the other side of things, the attorney for the board said Dr. Feagins has no hard proof and that all she has is soundbites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also said she has fabricated allegations and that much of what was presented in court was hearsay. The attorney for the board said Feagins never heard statements for herself, and that as an employee of the board, members can discuss her job performance, and that it doesnt violate the Open Meetings Act. Feagins attorney concluded on Tuesday, telling the judge, money cant repair what has happened to Dr. Feagins and her career trajectory. The judge will now take the arguments into account and issue a ruling in the next couple of weeks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A former behavioral health technician at Phoenix Children's Hospital may face multiple felony charges in connection with accusations that he possessed images of child sexual abuse, according to court documents. Jaydeep Patel, 31, was arrested July 17 on suspicion of sexually exploiting minors after an internet service provider tipped off police that he had child sexual abuse materials on his user profile, documents said. The Phoenix man was accused of nine counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, according to court documents. Each count is a Class 2 felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such felonies carry a prison sentence of three to 12 and a half years for first-time offenders who are convicted. Phoenix Childrens Hospital stressed that patient safety is a top priority, according to a statement sent to The Arizona Republic. Patel is no longer an employee there, and the hospital is fully cooperating with law enforcement, the statement said. The internet service provider submitted a tip to Phoenix police after finding that one subscriber, later identified as Patel, possessed nearly two dozen media files that it described as child pornography in September 2024, documents said. Authorities obtained search warrants to review records associated with the users social media accounts, internet service provider, email accounts and cell phone number. They were able to get the users location from the internet service, according to documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During their investigation, authorities linked Patel to the address, along with his phone number, documents said. The social media service also provided police with Patels chat exchanges, in which he gave his phone number, location, physical description and occupational information, documents said. Patel would also request in the chats child sexual abuse materials for his personal sexual gratification, and openly admitted to liking young girls and being a pedo," according to court documents. Nine video files were recovered from Patels social media account, court documents said. In them, young, grade-school-aged girls were either depicted exposing themselves or engaging in sexual conduct, according to documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After obtaining a warrant from a Maricopa County Superior Court judge, Phoenix police detained Patel at his home July 17, documents said. Patel was scheduled to appear in Maricopa County Superior Court for a status conference hearing July 24 and a preliminary hearing July 28, according to court records. Patel was being held on a $100,000 bond, court documents said. Shawn Raymundo covers Phoenix and Scottsdale. Reach him at sraymundo@gannett.com or follow him on X @ShawnzyTsunami. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Police: Former Phoenix hospital worker accessed child sex abuse images GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) Two former employees of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center were sentenced Wednesday for their alleged roles in a bribery scheme. Monika D. Schorer, 59, and Teresa D. Schorer, 59, both of Jonesborough, were sentenced in U.S. District Court in Greeneville to eight months in prison and ordered to pay more than $213,000 in restitution and a $10,000 fine, according to a release by the U.S. attorneys office. Kingsport doctor faces federal felony charges Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The women, who are twin sisters, will also have to serve three years of supervised release after getting out of prison. As part of a plea agreement, each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud. The sisters were accused of taking cash bribes from surgical sales representatives Eric S. Smith and Landon Chester, which allowed Smith and Chester to overbill the VA Medical Center, often for unnecessary medical items, according to the U.S. attorneys office. The bribes allegedly took the form of cash-stuffed envelopes and a promised ownership interest in a Virginia limited liability company, Four Corners Medical Supply and Equipment LLC, that had become a VA vendor with the cooperation of Teresa Schorer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In exchange for the bribes, the Schorers consciously permitted a substantial fraud against the VA; used a VA computer to set up Four Corners in the governments payment system; hid and concealed their arrangement by making false disclosures on their Office of Government Ethics Forms 450; alerted Smith and Chester when their VA supervisor began asking questions; and provided other assistance to Smith and Chester not generally available to VA vendors, the U.S. attorneys office said in the release. Monika Schorer also issued a letter purportedly from the VA Medical Center to try to thwart the investigation. Jefferson County paramedic dead after truck falls down embankment Smith, one of the surgical sales representatives, was sentenced last week to a year in prison and was required to pay over $120,000 in restitution prior to sentencing. He also agreed to forfeit $185,422 that was seized during the investigation. The other sales representative, Chester, has a sentencing hearing scheduled for Aug. 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the U.S. attorneys office, the federal government will recover more than $852,000 through the plea agreements and forfeited bank accounts. Our nation has a solemn obligation to care for our veterans, U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III said. This prosecution shows that our office and our federal partners will hold those accountable who steal taxpayer money that has been allocated to fulfill this sacred duty. The charges were the result of an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OSLO, Norway (AP) A former security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Norway has been indicted by prosecutors there on suspicion of espionage after he allegedly spied for Russia and Iran, state broadcaster NRK said Wednesday. The Norwegian man, whose name has not been made public, was arrested last November on suspicion of having damaged national security. He is accused of handing over details about the embassys diplomats, its floor plans and security routines, among other things, NRK reported. His defense attorney, Inger Zadig, said her client acknowledges the indictment's facts but denies any criminal guilt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At its core, this case concerns legal interpretation specifically, whether, and to what extent, the information in question was classified under the law, and whether it was capable of harming fundamental national interests, she wrote in an email to The Associated Press. If not, then sharing the information is not a criminal offense. Our client did not hold a security clearance, and his access to information that could threaten vital national interests was more or less non-existent. These issues will be thoroughly addressed in court. The broadcaster reported that America's ties to Israel and the war in Gaza prompted the man to contact Russia and Iran. The defendant faces up to 21 years in prison, NRK reported. The U.S. Embassy and the prosecutors office did not respond to AP's requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of his arrest, the man had been studying for a bachelors degree in security and preparedness at Norways Arctic University, UiT. It is a second such case at UiT in recent years, according to NRK. One of the people the West swapped with Russia in a major prisoner exchange last year was a UiT guest researcher who claimed to be a Brazilian named Jose Assis Giammaria, arrested on espionage allegations in 2022. The police revealed him to be Russian, Mikhail Valeryevich Mikushin. Norway has a 198-kilometer (123-mile) long border with Russia in the Arctic. Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Norway has heavily restricted entry for Russian nationals. Last year, the Norwegian government said it was considering a plan to build a fence along all or part of its border with Russia. A former security guard who used to work at the US embassy in Oslo has been charged with spying for Russia and Iran, Norwegian media reported on Wednesday. Oslo prosecutors accuse the man, a Norwegian national, of serious espionage activities related to the US and Norway, public broadcaster NRK reported. He is said to have passed on a blueprint of the embassy, addresses and other information to Iranian and Russian contacts, according to the indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 27-year-old, who was reportedly arrested in November, recognizes the facts laid out by the charges but denies criminal guilt, his defence lawyer told TV 2. The trial has been scheduled to begin in mid-August. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 21 years in prison. A copy of the Alaska Constitution is seen on Thursday, July 28, 2022. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon) Former state Rep. David Eastman has won his lawsuit against Gov. Mike Dunleavy and the state of Alaska, successfully challenging the governors decision to allow a bill to become law last year. In the suit, Eastman a Republican from Wasilla challenged the constitutionality of Senate Bill 189, citing a clause of the Alaska Constitution that requires lawmakers to limit bills to a single subject. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the final hours of the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers combined several other bills into SB 189. Dunleavy and the executive branch had no role in the crafting of the bill, but because the governor allowed the bill to become law without his signature, the suit named him as a defendant. On Tuesday, Juneau Superior Court Judge Larry Woolford signed an order declaring that the bill was passed by the 33rd Alaska Legislature in violation of Article II, Section 13 of the Alaska Constitution and is therefore void. Woolfords order also awards Eastman $20,250 in costs and attorney fees. Eastman was represented in the suit by attorney Joe Geldhof. The legal victory has limited immediate impact because lawmakers this year re-passed all the bills that were combined into Senate Bill 189. Woolfords order does not address and has no effect on subsequent legislation repealing and reenacting the provisions of SB 189. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its biggest impact may be to constrain current and future legislators, preventing them from repeating the kinds of legislative logrolling that have become commonplace in the final days of each two-year legislative cycle. Because bills die at the end of the legislative cycle and few bills pass both House and Senate, it has become common for lawmakers to make last-hours amendments that combine bills in an effort to speed them across the legislative finish line. We are pleased to have resolved the Eastman v. Dunleavy case, which challenged a bill on the grounds of violating the single subject rule, Attorney General Treg Taylor said by email on Tuesday. Following the filing of the lawsuit, the Department of Law sought to provide the Legislature with an opportunity to rectify this by breaking the bill into separate pieces of legislation. Fortunately, the Legislature successfully completed their work prior to the conclusion of the case, avoiding confusion on the laws enacted, Taylor said. No appeals are expected. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announced the arrest of a Fort Smith nurse accused of obtaining drugs by fraud. Griffin said in a news release on Tuesday that Matthew Daniel, 39, was arrested on July 15 for one count of obtaining drugs by fraud, a Class D felony. While working as a registered nurse at North Hills Lifecare and Rehab, Daniel allegedly signed out two tablets of a controlled substance from a residents prescription supply, Griffin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man sentenced for cashing fraudulent checks in Indiana, Oklahoma for more than $500K The release said that the resident had already been discharged and transferred to another unit when the tablets were signed out. Although documentation indicated the medication had been administered, the resident did not receive it, and the two tablets were later found to be missing from inventory, Griffin said in the release. Court records show a warrant for Daniels arrest was issued on June 12. He is set to appear in court on Aug. 4. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Students in the Fort Worth Independent School District could ride local buses and trains for free this school year through a proposed pilot program with Trinity Metro. The program, which would be open to all students, is focused on giving high-schoolers access to extracurricular activities, outside tutoring, community resources and job opportunities. At its Tuesday night meeting, the school board unanimously gave approval to superintendent Karen Molinar to negotiate a memorandum of understanding between the district and Trinity Metro for the program. Officials hope to finalize an agreement before the first day of school, Aug. 12., according to district records. The program would run through July 31 of next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no discussion on the program by school-board members, as the approval for negotiations was outlined in a consent item, which are not discussed unless they are pulled for discussion by a board member. In a statement before the meeting, though, district officials said they were looking forward to the partnership. We are looking forward to partnering with Trinity Metro to provide public transportation for our students at no cost, Fort Worth ISD officials said. Trinity Metro runs 23 regular bus routes throughout Tarrant County, according to its website. Its TEXRail system spans from downtown Fort Worth to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport with nine stations throughout the route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trinity Metro officials said the partnership would be the first of its kind between the transportation system and a local school district, adding that they were proud to approach Fort Worth ISD about the program. While this is being framed as a one-year pilot, our long-term vision is clear we want to ensure no student is limited by a lack of transportation when it comes to pursuing academic success, extracurricular activities, internships, or part-time jobs, chief strategy officer Anette Landeros said in a statement. If Trinity Metro can help remove those barriers, we are honored to do so. We hope students and families will embrace this opportunity to see how transit can open doors not just for students, but for the entire household. District records note that the program is not intended to replace the districts yellow bus system that takes students to and from their campuses. This free service offered by Trinity Metro is supplemental and does not replace the districts yellow bus services provided to students who qualify for transportation to and from school; however, students can utilize this service if they miss their regular school bus, district officials said. HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) is one of the Best Indian Stocks to Buy for Next 5 Years. Reuters highlighted that the company reported higher-than-expected quarterly profit thanks to a surge in interest income from loans and treasury gains, despite an increase in provisions for bad loans. HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB)s standalone net profit went up by 12.2% to INR181.55 billion ($2.11 billion) during the April-to-June quarter, above the average analyst forecast of INR172.84 billion, reported Reuters. Its provisions for bad loans increased five-fold to INR144 billion. HDFC Bank (HDB) Reports Higher-than-expected Quarterly Profit A business owner tallying their profits in the back office of a local banking branch. Reuters, while quoting HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB)s exchange filing, noted that most of such provisions were not related to any actual bad loans. These acted as a countercyclical buffer so that the balance sheet becomes more resilient. The lenders in India continue to face higher bad loans in segments like microfinance and unsecured portfolio, prompting them to set aside more funds for potential defaults and to strengthen the balance sheets, noted Reuters. This firm also added that, while overall bank credit growth witnessed a slowdown in India, HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) saw growth of 6.7% for its overall loan book, thanks to the 17.1% increase in loans to small and medium businesses. Brown Advisors, an investment management company, released its Q4 2024 investor letter. Here is what the fund said: HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) has shown robust fundamental business drivers, but the shares have relatively underperformed since its merger with former parent HDFC Ltd. This merger enhances HDFC Banks long-run business opportunities, particularly mortgages, in the Indian market but comes with short-term sub-optimal funding which we expect to unwind over the next couple of years. With an enhanced competitive position, we feel it unlikely this remains an issue over time. HDFC Bank has also shown good downside protection historically when the credit cycle turns, and the banks defensive lending practices allow it to outperform peers. Impressively, management has expanded lending at the right time historically too. We believe these characteristics remain intact. Headquartered in Mumbai, India, HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB) is engaged in providing banking and financial services to individuals and businesses. While we acknowledge the potential of HDB as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. All students in the Fort Worth Independent School District will be required to wear photo ID badges during the school day and after-school activities starting the 2025-26 school year. The badges, a new security measure, will also be used by students to check out library books and equipment such as laptops, in addition to buying a la carte food during lunch. Students who dont have their IDs visible could face consequences ranging from verbal warnings to school suspensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Superintendent Karen Molinar said on Tuesday during a school board meeting that parents have raised concerns about the lanyards being a choking hazard for elementary students and noted that the ones purchased by the district are breakaway lanyards. Students will not wear them during recess time or PE class. The badges will also be incorporated into the districts bus system. They are only used for check in (and check out) on our school buses. They are not used for tracking. So just so our parents know that our badges do not have any type of tracking device for our students, Molinar said. Temporary badges will be issued to students who forget their badge at home, but it will cost $5 for a new permanent badge to be issued if a student loses theirs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex have already required students to wear ID badges or are beginning to implement identical policies. In the upcoming school year, Dallas ISD is rolling out a similar, districtwide system, while Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD is requiring secondary students to wear ID badges. Frisco ISD started its student ID badge program in the 2022-23 school year. Richardson ISD introduced ID badges for elementary students in the 2024-25 school year but already had required secondary students to wear such badges for approximately two decades. The first day of school for Fort Worth ISD is Aug. 12. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is in the process of tightening travel conditions to France for a number of Algerian dignitaries after Algeria refused to take back 120 nationals who are under an obligation to leave French territory, government spokesperson Sophie Primas said on Wednesday. The data we have shows that 120 individuals subject to an OQTF, who have valid documents [for return to Algeria] have not been accepted back by the Algerian authorities, Primas said during the post-Cabinet meeting press briefing, without specifying a date. According to Le Figaro, 53 Algerians who had been deported were sent back to France between March and 22 July, including four in recent days, as Retailleau renewed calls for a tougher stance toward Algiers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France to expel Algerian diplomats after embassy staff sent home from Algiers Youll have noticed that the interior minister has become increasingly willing to take stronger measures, particularly regarding Algerian diplomacy, noted Primas. Thats exactly what he is doing, especially concerning a number of Algerian dignitaries whose conditions for traveling to France will be made more stringent and difficult." We are also in a power struggle with Algeria on this issue, she added, noting that France is also demanding the release of writer Boualem Sansal and journalist Christophe Gleizes. Algeria expels more French diplomats as tensions escalate in ongoing row Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with Le Figaro on Friday, Retailleau once again criticised the Algerian authorities, accusing them of issuing passports to illegal immigrants, and declaring his intention to restrict the movement of members of the nomenklatura responsible for denigrating France". Aiming at President Emmanuel Macron who is scheduled to receive him on Thursday at the Elysee Retailleau also stated that feel-good diplomacy has failed and called for a shift in tone toward Algiers. (with newswires) CHICAGO (WGN) Chicago police are searching for a dog that was reportedly taken from his owner during an armed robbery on the Far South Side. Police said the incident happened just after 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 16 in the 11200 block of South Union Avenue in Roseland. Chicago police searching for Aramark employee who shot 2 people A 2-year-old male French Bulldog named Milo was walking with his owner when two armed males wearing ski masks approached and hit is owner several times, according to investigators. (Photo: Chicago Police Department) Police said Milos owner was thrown to the ground and Milo was taken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Dorich with CPD or Area Two Detectives at 312-747-8273. You can also submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com and use reference #JJ336906. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines CPD would like to remind the public to be aware of their surroundings and watch for any suspicious activity or people. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A French-supplied Mirage 2000 fighter jet crashed in Ukraine on Tuesday following a technical malfunction during an assignment. It is the first reported loss of a Mirage jet since Ukraine began receiving the aircraft from France in February. The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that the pilot safely ejected over Ukrainian territory after reporting a failure in the jets systems. In a statement, the Air Force described the incident as an aviation equipment failure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pilot reported [the failure] to the flight director. He acted competently, as required in crisis situations, and successfully ejected. The search and rescue team located the pilot, and his condition is stable, according to a statement from the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Ukrainian pilots have been using the jets under a program announced by Emmanuel Macron - AFP No casualties were reported on the ground, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is underway. President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the incident on Wednesday morning. The pilot managed to escape and it was not shot down by the Russians, he said. Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft. A French aircraft, very effective, one of our Mirage. The loss is another setback for Ukraines air defence capability, which has been under mounting pressure amid increasing Russian missile and drone attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine began receiving the Mirage 2000-5 aircraft this year as part of a French initiative to strengthen its air force. In June last year, President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would transfer the Mirage 2000-5s and train Ukrainian pilots in France for up to six months. The program was intended to bolster Ukraines efforts to deploy U.S.-made F-16s later this year. The Mirage is a single-engine, multi-role fighter jet, which first entered into service in the 1970s, and shares many similarities with the American F-16. 0806 How Mirage fighter jet compares against the F-16 The Mirage 2000 was first used by the French air force in 1984, and deployed during the 1999 Kosovo War during Natos bombing of Yugoslavia. The 2000-5 version has upgraded radar systems and can carry fuel-drop tanks, which increases its range significantly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, experts have raised concerns that adding another Western jet type into Ukraines fleet, already facing hurdles with the incoming F-16s, could complicate the situation. Weve seen from the F-16s that even with 80 aircraft donated, its taking a lot of time and lots of resources in multiple countries, said Prof Justin Bronk, senior research fellow for air power and technology at the Royal United Services Institute. Its probably not worth all the personnel and huge resources that it will take to develop a Ukrainian Mirage 2000 capability, get it up and running, and defend it in Ukraine, he 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. French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, have hit far-right influencer Candace Owens with a defamation lawsuit over her false claims that Brigitte Macron is male. In a suit filed on Wednesday in Delaware, the Macrons allege that Owens has profited from a campaign of global humiliation against the Macrons, the complaint said. In a March 2024 podcast, Owens said she would stake [her] entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is in fact a man, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite attempts to stop Owens from spreading the conspiracy including a retraction letter sent by the Macrons she instead helmed an eight-part podcast series entitled Becoming Brigitte (the Series) and accompanying X posts, the lawsuit said. As part of the series, Owens fired off a series of outlandish, defamatory, and far-fetched fictions. More from the lawsuit: These outlandish, defamatory, and far-fetched fictions included that Mrs. Macron was born a man, stole another persons identity, and transitioned to become Brigitte; Mrs. Macron and President Macron are blood relatives committing incest; President Macron was chosen to be the President of France as part of the CIA-operated MKUltra program or a similar mind-control program; and Mrs. Macron and President Macron are committing forgery, fraud, and abuses of power to conceal these secrets. The Macrons allege Owens has turned their lives into fodder for profit-driven lies, the complaint said. Owens has dissected their appearance, their marriage, their friends, their family, and their personal history twisting it all into a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade, the lawsuit said. The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owens, a notorious conspiracy theorist who has been banned entry to Australia and New Zealand over her hateful rhetoric, has previously amplified a conspiracy about Jews being drunk on Christian blood, a reference to a false, centuries-old antisemitic trope. And in July of last year, Owens suggested on her podcast that the horrific experiments Nazi physician Josef Mengele conducted on twins at Holocaust death camps never happened, in part because it would be a tremendous waste of time and supplies. That just sounds like bizarre propaganda, she concluded. The lawsuit against her does not specify the amount of damages the Macrons are seeking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owens has not responded to the lawsuit, but did respond Tuesday to news that Brigitte Macron was suing the author of the book that first brought the baseless conspiracy to a mass audience. Its official! Brigitte is now suing the author of Becoming Brigitte for cyberbullying, Owens posted on X. Am I next?! French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, on Wednesday filed a defamation lawsuit against American conservative commentator Candace Owens over the "outlandish, defamatory, and far-fetched fictions" she's pushed online, including her claim that Brigitte was born a man. Owens, according to the complaint, used this false statement "to promote her independent platform, gain notoriety, and make money." "Ms. Owens' campaign of defamation was plainly designed to harass and cause pain to us and our families and to garner attention and notoriety. We gave her every opportunity to back away from these claims, but she refused," the Macrons said in a statement. "It is our earnest hope that this lawsuit will set the record straight and end this campaign of defamation once and for all." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: France's Macron dismisses video showing wife shoving him in the face The complaint, filed in Delaware Superior Court, spans over 200 pages and includes 22 counts of defamation, false light, and defamation by implication. The Macrons are seeking damages, though no amount is included. The complaint cites a host of claims Owens has made about the Macrons, including that the two are secretly blood relatives. "These claims are demonstrably false, and Owens knew they were false when she published them," the complaint states. "Yet, she published them anyway. And the reason is clear: it is not the pursuit of truth, but the pursuit of fame." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, a spokesperson for Owens said Owens "is not shutting up" and that the lawsuit amounts to a "foreign government attacking the First Amendment rights of an American independent journalist." Ben Montgomery/Getty Images - PHOTO: French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron depart Downing Street after meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and wife Victoria Starmer, July 9, 2025, in London. "Candace repeatedly requested an interview with Brigitte Macron," the statement said. "Instead of offering a comment, Brigitte is resorting to trying to bully a reporter into submission. In France, politicians can bully journalists, but this is not France. It's America." The complaint says that Owens' claims have caused "tremendous damage" to the Macrons, and have "subjected the Macrons to a campaign of global humiliation, turning their lives into fodder for profit-driven lies." "The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale," the complaint says. "Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications. It is invasive, dehumanizing, and deeply unjust." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A press release accompanying the Macrons' complaint says the Marcons sent Owens three retraction demands prior to filing their suit. "If ever there was a clear-cut case of defamation, this is it," Tom Clare, an attorney for the Macrons, said in a statement. "Relying on discredited falsehoods originally presented by a self-proclaimed spiritual medium and so-called investigative journalist, Ms. Owens both promoted and expanded on those falsehoods and invented new ones, all designed to cause maximum harm to the Macrons and maximize attention and financial gain for herself." France has called for the mass adoption of the siesta just days after its prime minister said people must work more to avoid the country going into bankruptcy. The French are envied the world over and sometimes chided for their right to long holidays, a 35-hour working week and the right to disconnect from office-related communication, now a law. Yet despite such measures to ensure a healthy work-life balance, the French are not getting enough sleep at night and should thus take more naps in the day, Frances health ministry has insisted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, it launched a 25-point roadmap for quality sleep whose centrepiece is promoting the siesta both in schools and in the workplace. I am very much in favour of napping, whether at work or at school, said Yannick Neuder, the French health minister, who unveiled the plan on Tuesday. While stopping short of issuing siesta decrees, the minister said he would push employers to set up break areas or quiet zones to encourage 15 to 20-minute power naps in a drive to improve concentration, reduce stress and limit the risk of accidents. That includes a quiet label, which identifies areas in schools, libraries, businesses, shops and restaurants that promote well-being, relaxation and even naps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Studies have shown that French peoples sleep has decreased by 1.5 hours in 50 years and that almost 50 per cent of French people complain of poor sleep quality, said Mr Neuder while presenting his plan. And we know that poor sleep has an impact on health, both mental health more stress, depression, etc and physical health, with more obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, he added. The average French adult sleeps seven hours a night, and one in five sleeps less than six hours. Cited causes include excessive screen time, irregular lifestyles, noise, poor housing and the aftermath of Covid. Quiet time The plan will also target schools where 30 per cent of children and 70 per cent of teenagers sleep less than the recommended amount, according to studies cited by the ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without shaking up school timetables, it encourages teaching staff to incorporate quiet time tailored to pupils biological needs. But the call for more siestas comes just days after the prime minister Francois Bayrou appealed to the French to end decades of denial and accept that the French do not work enough. In particular, Mr Bayrou, the centrist at the head of the minority government since December, declared war on malingering as part of his drive to reconcile the French with work and salvage the countrys debt-ridden state coffers. The French absentee level is one of Europes highest and about double that of Britain and the United States. The cost is estimated at up to 80 billion, more than the state education budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France has fewer people working than its neighbours and spends the most on benefits, yet the French are increasingly dissatisfied with their public services and we are the most pessimistic country in the world, Mr Bayrou said in a speech presenting his cost-cutting package last week. Inspectors found that half of all people on long-term medical leave of 18 months lacked justification, the prime minister said. France has seen a 40 per cent rise in absenteeism over the past five years in the private sector, with almost 6 per cent of employees off sick at any time. The figures are even higher for the state sector, which accounts for more than 20 per cent of the workforce and saw a 79 per cent rise in public servant sick leave between 2014 and 2022. The prime ministers austerity plans, which include scrapping two public holidays, prompted outrage from opposition parties across the political divide, and polls suggest that 60 per cent of the public oppose them. 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. German engineering company Heidelberger Druckmaschinen (HEIDELBERG) has finalised an agreement with the POLAR Group to acquire the technology, intellectual property (IP), and brand rights associated with the POLAR Mohr brand, along with additional assets. This transaction is anticipated to be completed within the coming weeks. Upon completion, HEIDELBERG will gain exclusive global sales, service, and marketing rights for POLAR Mohr's post-press products. This acquisition is set to strengthen HEIDELBERG's position as a systems integrator in the packaging market, particularly in growth regions such as Asia, South America, and the Middle East. The partnership between HEIDELBERG and POLAR Mohr, which dates back to the 1950s, has seen POLAR Mohr developing and manufacturing systems while Heidelberg has managed significant sales and service activities. HEIDELBERG plans to incorporate POLAR Mohr's postpress systems into its solutions portfolio, focusing on automation, digitalisation, and workflow integration to enhance productivity in packaging and label production. The POLAR Group's companies, under the ownership of SOL Capital Management, will continue to collaborate with HEIDELBERG for the future development, production, and assembly of POLAR Mohr systems. HEIDELBERG CEO Jurgen Otto said: HEIDELBERG is aiming to achieve targeted growth through M&A [merger and acquisition] activities in attractive market segments. This acquisition underscores our credentials as a full-range supplier for our customers in the packaging and label industry, including service, and gives us exclusivity in a growing market. As a systems integrator, we cover the entire value chain of a packaging print shop - on a fully integrated and networked basis - to ensure production is highly productive. POLAR Mohr systems play a key role in this context. "HEIDELBERG to acquire POLAR Mohr brand rights and technology" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. Frontier Airlines recently announced 15 new routes, including a direct flight from Salt Lake City International Airport to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, to start this fall. The expansion move comes after the U.S. travel industry experienced a slump in airfare bookings in May, after the initial tariffs announcements, per Forbes. Low-budget airlines were the most affected. Frontiers new routes seem to be an effort to solidify the airlines position in the domestic market, where most airlines are losing money, per Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the Denver-based airline introduced revamped policies under its flagship program The New Frontier." The changes, meant to provide an enhanced costumer experience, include transparent pricing, no change fees and perks for elite members. Premium traveling offerings are a growing trend from low-budget airlines to combat the volatile economic changes and increase profits. JetBlue, for example, announced last December plans to add first-class seats to shorter domestic flight, per CNBN. Reuters reported the number of premium seats in the U.S. domestic market has increased by 14% since 2019, more than three times the growth in main cabin seats, according to data from Visual Approach Analytics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frontier is following suit with a retrofitting of the first two rows into first-class seats. Now is a better time than ever for travelers to make Frontier their airline of choice, Josh Flyr, vice president of network and operations design at Frontier Airlines, said in a press release. From Salt Lake International Airport, Frontier offers nonstop flights to Phoenix, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Dallas, Portland, and Ontario, Canada. The new nonstop flight from Salt Lake City to Southern California will operate twice a week, starting on Oct. 9. Travelers queue up at the Frontier Airlines self-check kiosks in Denver International Airport Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, in Denver. | David Zalubowski Other direct flights in the West Arizona, now has two direct flights to Texas: one from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to San Antonio, which will operate three times a week, and another one from Tucson to Dallas-Fort Worth, operating twice a week. Out of Denver, the airlines headquarters, travelers will be able to fly to four new destinations. Jul. 22The year was 1986 when the Otterstrom family traveled from their home in Spokane to Vancouver, British Columbia, for the transportation -themed World 's Fair. There, the newly built SkyTrain carted attendees to and fro. Karl Otterstrom, the newly selected CEO for Spokane Transit Authority, remembers the SkyTrain as one of his first experiences with public transit. It sparked a passion within his younger self that he would carry with him for decades. Otterstrom holds a bachelor's degree in urban and regional planning from Eastern Washington University and a master's in urban planning from the University of Washington. He has worked with Spokane Transit for more than 15 years, including acting as co-CEO with Brandon Rapez-Beatty since Jan. 1. Before that, Otterstrom held positions with King County Metro and the Federal Transit Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An obvious choice? Set to officially take office as the CEO Aug. 10, members of the Spokane Transit directors' board tout Otterstrom for his passion for transit. Dan Dunne, Spokane Transit board member and Liberty Lake city councilman, said Otterstrom was selected for the role because of "his knowledge of our community and its history," along with a strong technical skill set. "His ability to use and build transit in the community is unlike anything I've ever seen," Dunne said. Board member and Spokane County Commissioner Al French shared a similar sentiment. "There is a lot of activity going on with STA and in the next 10 -year iteration of our growth it is going to be critical to have strong, sound leadership," French said. "And I am confident Karl is going to provide that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The process by which Otterstrom was selected for this position has received scrutiny from others involved in the Spokane transportation scene, though, as he was the only candidate presented by the recommendation team for consideration by the rest of the board. "Karl is great, but obviously most of us would have liked to see a selection of candidates," board member and Spokane City Councilwoman Kitty Klitzky said. Dunne said other candidates could not compare to Otterstrom. "It is my personal belief, if there are no other candidates worthy of consideration, that it would be patronizing to put them forward," Dunne said. "(Otterstrom) is a great candidate and a great leader, and I look forward to wonderful improvements in transit for Spokane." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the controversy, French said the board unanimously voted July 17 to move forward with Otterstrom as the next CEO. A long-lived love of transit Otterstrom's interest in transit didn't stop with the Vancouver SkyTrain. When Spokane Transit workers organized a bus-route-scavenger-hunt for his sixth -grade class, Otterstrom's group won a sign of early aptitude for figuring out transit, he said. "I don't think it's just one thing," Otterstrom said about the inspiration he finds in transportation. "There's this innate problem -solving, you know, like you get the challenge to say, 'How do you make this connection work in that way?' " Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Offering opportunities for people to connect with the wider community is another of many draws. "Years ago, we received a letter from an EWU student who lived in the Hillyard area neighborhood and was writing STA saying 'thank you, I'm graduating from Eastern Washington, I could have not done that without the bus, because I couldn't afford to live on campus or in Cheney, I lived at home,' " Otterstrom said. Then in high school, Otterstrom would travel for orchestra competitions. He remembers his classmates hanging around the hotel or walking down the street during their free time. "I'd get the phone book and figure out the bus routes, the train schedule, whatever else," he said. "And so we'd go explore the entire city rather than just around the hotel." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1995, Otterstrom was a high school student in running start. He remembers seeing an ad for the new Spokane Transit plaza in the paper one Saturday and "voraciously" reading everything he could on it. "It was just very fascinating how it worked. How it could work, how it could be different," he said. "I wanted to plan for a SkyTrain in town, like they had in Vancouver." On graduating, his senior quote in the yearbook involved getting a SkyTrain in Spokane. After graduation, Otterstrom went to Salvador, Brazil for a mission with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. There, he was fascinated by how people got around the city without cars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They call it 'English hand driving' where the buses would switch to the left side of the median so that the doors on the right entered to the center platform," he said. "And they had these skywalks that ... go to the neighborhood hills." Despite his long-standing interest in transit, Otterstrom didn't know what he wanted to do when he returned from his mission. He toyed with the idea of becoming a dentist, since he had worked part time in a clinic for a few years. "I went to EWU and sat down with an adviser, and he started going through the catalog and I saw a transportation planning class. I signed up for that in addition to other core classes," he said. " After the first class session, I was convinced I wanted to be a transportation planner." While he was a student at Eastern, Otterstrom would bike 2.5 miles from his home in Spokane to catch a bus six months out of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I always saw it as, like, a practical thing," he said. Spokane as a transportation town Otterstrom said that though Spokane is not "super dense," it is a "great place for transit." "It is fundamentally a transit town," he said. "Its bones are all structured around historic streetcar routes that if you were to cut into pavement, as we have done with City Line, you'd find old railroad tracks or ties from the streetcars." The plaid layout of streets in the city also gives people in more distant neighborhoods a way to walk to bus stops, Otterstrom said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement STA is currently exploring the possibility of creating a bus route to connect Spokane to Kootenai County a subject on which Otterstrom based his master's thesis. More imminently, however, are plans for a rapid transit line stretching along Division, and a new facility dedicated to clean energy buses. "Long ago in my life, I wrote a personal mission statement and one of those parts of my personal mission was to make the world a better place," Otterstrom said. "And so I feel privileged every day coming to Spokane Transit that I can work on that goal." Cannon Barnett'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. Attorney General Jeff Jackson on Tuesday said a last-minute maneuver from the Trump administration to freeze millions of public education dollars has created a ton of chaos weeks before the start of school. Jacksons statement alongside remarks from State Board of Education Chair Eric Davis occurred at Gastonias Dream Center Academy around the same time Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced in a news release an immediate freeze in spending and described future cuts it said will be the largest among N.C. school districts. If the money is eliminated, nearly 1,000 educators across the state could lose their jobs, Jackson said. The scale of the impact is broad, its severe, and its immediate, because they pulled the rug at the last minute, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The night before the federal government was supposed to distribute approved funds by Congress, North Carolina received a three-sentence email announcing the freeze, he said. The U.S. Department of Education said it froze funds while it reviewed whether they align with President Donald Trumps priorities, The Charlotte Observer previously reported. North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, center, listens to Jason Brown, right, as he teaches students at Dream Center Academy in Gastonia, NC how to change a tire properly on Tuesday. Jackson and North Carolina joined 23 other states last week in suing the federal Department of Education over the $7 billion funding freeze nationwide. The currently-frozen funds are supposed to supplement school initiatives for low-income families, teacher recruitment, English language learning and academic enrichment. The attorney general said Tuesday hes confident the states will win the case and force the release of approved funds by Congress. The states have requested the case be treated as an emergency, and there could be a hearing within weeks, Jackson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we dont get the response from the court as quickly as we want, there is some wiggle room, but not much, Jackson said, citing a conversation with NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green where he said current funds could be stretched for two or three months. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools CMS said in a Tuesday news release its still waiting on $12.5 million from the federal government. The district said its using carryover funds from last year and placing a freeze on spending. That will affect external contracts, services and vacant positions rather than cutting employees. The districts news release described shifting money from its central office budget to retain staff as well as cutting money from stipends, software, training and curriculum tools. While 2025-26 is going to be an extremely difficult budget year, we prepared for the uncertainty of the entitlement grants, said CMS Chief Finance Officer Kelly Kluttz. We made these decisions to protect the student experience as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first day of CMS classes is Aug. 25. If CMS doesnt receive the $12.5 million, it would make an equal amount in cuts for the 2026-2027 budget year, the news release said. Those cuts would occur during the normal budget process in early 2026, the district said. However, a cut of this magnitude would negatively impact every school and every student, the district said in its news release. Some money released Gastonias Dream Center Academy, where Jackson and Davis gathered Tuesday, is expected to receive frozen federal money as part of about $36 million in 21st Century Community Learning Center funds released to North Carolina last week. The money released goes to community learning centers, which offer academic programs outside of regular school hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson and Davis toured the center and interacted with a handful of students and teachers before speaking to reporters. While Im encouraged that the department has released 21st Century grant funds, there are still countless more students like the ones here at the Dream Center whose dreams remain frozen because of the $130 million that have not been released, Davis said. The Georgia Republican Party said it has been in contact with the court-appointed receiver in charge of recovering money taken in an alleged Ponzi scheme and has returned more than $36,000 in contributions. The alleged scheme targeted conservative lawmakers and church groups. In a statement from Republican Party Chair Josh McKoon on Tuesday, he said the party has gone through their records dating back to 2021 and handed and contributions made by Brant Frost IV and his immediate family members back to the receiver. Federal investigators say First Liberty Building and Loan became a Ponzi scheme in 2021, and that its owner and founder, Frost, used millions of investor dollars on things like a luxury watch, rare coins, a vacation home rental in Maine and more than $500,000 in political contributions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal investigators said the scheme took more than $140 million from investors. Frost and his family promoted First Liberty heavily on conservative media with paid commercials and went to church groups to ask people to invest. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of our Party, I am profoundly saddened that members of our conservative movement, along with many others, were misled by false promises of safe investments. This has left countless Georgians facing uncertain futures and financial distress, McKoon said on Tuesday. I want to emphasize that the Partys action is rooted in compassion and integrity, aimed at supporting the victims and their families. It has not been made at the demand of any level of government or any candidate for office, but rather is the discharge of our moral duty to do our part to assist those who have been affected by this tragedy. Only Channel 2 Action News was there when the court-ordered receiver Gregory Hays and his team began removing boxes full of hard drives and financial records from the First Liberty offices in downtown Newnan last week. Now, Hays has published a website for those First Liberty investors where they can track the progress of the case. Hays has 90 days to finish his investigation and write up his report. He said he wants investors to know hes working hard to find the money. The charges currently brought against Frost and First Liberty are civil, not criminal. Sources confirmed to Channel 2s Richard Elliot that the FBI is also looking into the case. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Wednesday declassified documents she claims prove intelligence officials in the Obama administration lied about Russias efforts to influence the 2016 election. The 44-page review of how U.S. spy agencies under then-President Barack Obama arrived at their conclusions was led by Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee and ordered in the aftermath of Donald Trumps win over Hillary Clinton in 2016. The move comes days after Gabbard released a separate tranche of documents on the 2016 election that she claimed showed evidence that senior intelligence officials under Obama had mounted a years-long coup to undermine Trump and were guilty of a treasonous conspiracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She amped up her rhetoric again on Wednesday. The documents contain irrefutable evidence that details how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false, Gabbard said in a surprise appearance at a White House press conference Wednesday afternoon. Congressional Democrats cast the release of the documents as a reckless bid to appease Trump and claimed the GOP-led congressional review itself was deeply flawed. Releasing this so-called report is just another reckless act by a Director of National Intelligence so desperate to please Donald Trump that she is willing to risk classified sources, betray our allies, and politicize the very intelligence she has been entrusted to protect, Senate Intelligence Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-Va.) said in a press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like a more recent review of the 2016 election put out this month by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, the House Intelligence report offered significant criticism of the intelligence community though it was much more measured than the way Gabbard, Ratcliffe and other Republicans characterized the newly released documents publicly. On the ODNIs website, the report was described as a Declassified HPSCI Report on the Manufactured Russia Hoax. But the GOP-led review did not question the intelligence community's assessment that Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a series of influence operations and hack-and-leak efforts against Clinton. It also took no issue with the determination that Putin sought to undermine both American democracy generally and Clinton, who the Russian leader assumed would be the countrys next president. Most ICA judgments on Russian activities in the U.S. election employed proper tradecraft and were consistent with observed Russian behavior, the review stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It found fault mainly with how the intelligence community arrived at its third high-confidence assessment about that years election: that Putin and others in the Russian government wanted to see Trump in the White House. Obama-era intelligence officials based their conclusion largely on a scant, unclear and unverifiable fragment from a single spy source, the report said. It also argued that the agency did not adhere to spy community standards in sufficiently considering alternative explanations for Putins actions or informing policymakers of intelligence that called his alleged preference for Trump into question. For example, the report said Russian intelligence services had explosive information on Clinton that they never leaked to the press. That included information allegedly indicating Clinton had significant health issues, the report said. The report heaps significant criticism on then-CIA Director John Brennan. It finds Brennan pushed for inclusion of the assessment on Putins preference for Trump in the aftermath of the 2016 vote and against the recommendation of some analysts beneath him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brennan could not be reached for comment. But a spokesperson for Obama offered a rare public rebuke of the allegations after Trump accused the former president and other former senior officials of treason on Tuesday night. The House panel's report in some places echoed the CIA's recent review. Both raise questions about how few intelligence officials were involved in conducting the assessment, and whether Obama administration officials were transparent about the extent to which they relied on the now-debunked Steele dossier, for example. In their statements Wednesday, Warner and Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.) both pointed out that a multivolume review produced by the Senate Intelligence Committee did not find the same issues as the 44-page House review. The Senate spy panel was headed during the writing of its 2020 review first by Republican Sen. Richard Burr of North Carolina, who introduced Gabbard at her confirmation hearing, and later by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The final recommendations from the HPSCI review suggested that intelligence officials improve the peer review process for controversial intelligence assessments and for political appointees to recuse themselves when those occur during presidential transitions, among others. The declassifications have nonetheless delighted Trump. On Tuesday, he called Gabbard, who recently looked to be sidelined in his administration, the hottest one in the room right now. In a Fox News segment, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard accused former President Barack Obama of the very thing she has recently come under fire for. Gabbard has continued on her warpath against Obama as the Trump administration faces attacks from all sides after failing to release classified files related to Jeffrey Epstein. On a Fox News segment with Lara Trump, Gabbard, 44, accused Obama of using the art of deflection, an art in which her detractors say she is well-versed. Tulsi Gabbard murders irony by accusing Obama of "the art of deflection" pic.twitter.com/giluTpNG8k Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 22, 2025 On Friday, July 18, Gabbard claimed the Department of National Intelligence had uncovered a treasonous plot by the Obama administration to undermine President Donald Trumps election in 2016 by stoking claims about Russian interference (though said claims have proven to be valid). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even purported MAGA fans accused Gabbard of using political theater to distract the public from accusations of a massive Epstein cover-up to protect Trump, who has been accused of being on the Epstein client list by former First Buddy Elon Musk. Even Fox News contributor Andrew McCarthy skewered Gabbard for creating a misleading attack. Noooo.. What about Epstein files? That's what we want to know about. Release the client list. Dr. Ali Alvi (@DrAleeAlvi) July 18, 2025 Gabbard seems to be attempting to throw a bone to justice-hungry voters by releasing declassified intelligence reportsjust not the right ones. In a rare statement, Obamas office called Gabbards targeted attacks ridiculous and bizarre, alleging she was making a weak attempt at distraction from the Epstein blowback. Even more bizarrely, Gabbards best response to Obamas statement was to accuse him of the very same thing. Shes inventing new psychological phenomena as we speak, one X user wrote. Another commenter pointed out the irony that Gabbard was being interviewed on Fox by Trumps daughter-in-law. Gabbards recent ramblings are seen as just one part of a multi-pronged diversion tactic that has the administration releasing deepfake memes and making random promises to improve the state of American soft drinks for the sake of appeasing Trumps enraged MAGA base. It doesnt seem to be working. President Donald Trump one month ago dismissed Tulsi Gabbards assessment of Irans nuclear program, bluntly declaring, I dont care what she thinks. Her words are carrying a lot more weight with him now. The director of national intelligence appeared at the White House press briefing Wednesday afternoon to tout newly declassified intelligence that she alleged shows that former President Barack Obama manipulated information and knowingly lied about Russian efforts to sway the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard claimed the new documents offered irrefutable evidence that Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false. While Gabbard acknowledged that Russia wanted to sow discord in the election, she said it did not collude with Trump or prefer him to win. As proof, Gabbard said Russian President Vladimir Putins decision not to release damaging information about Hillary Clinton whose 2016 campaign was targeted by a barrage of Wikileaks revelations showed that the Kremlin did not have a preferred candidate. But the new information does not dispute the intelligence communitys 2016 conclusion that Russia and its president meddled in the election in hopes of damaging Clinton, who, as Gabbard noted, Moscow thought would win. It largely questions how the intelligence community arrived at its high-confidence assessment that Putin aspired to see Trump win. Gabbards appearance at the briefing came the day after Trump effusively praised her in front of lawmakers in the East Room as she posed for selfies in the standing-room only crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes the hottest person in the room right now, Trump said, joking to Speaker Mike Johnson that Gabbards hotter than you right now. Gabbards rapid rehabilitation with the president stems almost entirely, according to one White House official, from her move last week to declassify the 2016 documents. Asked about the presidents current view of the former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, the official said that Trumps comments speak for themselves. Its a marked transformation for Gabbard whose status inside the West Wing appeared to plummet last month when Trump publicly and repeatedly rebuked her testimony to Congress asserting that Iran was not close to developing a nuclear weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And it speaks to how Trump views his staff. Just as he sees the Justice Department as his lawyers, the DNI is best served when its assessments align with those of the man in the Oval Office. Her release of the Obama administration documents and her allegations about them comes at the perfect time for a president desperate to change the subject from the fight over unsealing more information about disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died in jail by suicide six years ago. People talk about the audience of one with Trump, and it continues to be true, said a Trump ally outside the White House, granted anonymity to speak candidly. She knew this would be catnip for him and the timing with the Epstein stuff makes it all the more useful for the president. Criticizing the press corps for its coverage of Russia's 2016 interference, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt scoffed at a question about Gabbard's standing in the West Wing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The only people who are suggesting that the director of national intelligence would release evidence to try to boost her standing with the president are the people in this room, who constantly try to sow distrust and chaos amongst the presidents cabinet," she said. Trump, Leavitt added, has the utmost confidence in Director Gabbard. He always has. Asked about Gabbards rising status in the Trump White House, a senior U.S. intelligence official said she was simply doing her job. The official, who was granted anonymity to speak candidly on her standing in the administration, also called media speculation about her recent hot streak incredibly stupid. Trump, on Tuesday, seized on Gabbards latest disclosures and accused Obama of treason. Thanking her in front of the GOP lawmakers, the president said she found out that Barack Hussein Obama led a group of people, and they cheated in the elections, and they cheated without question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps accusations drew a response from Obamas office. A spokesperson for the former president dismissed Trumps claims as ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. And several Democrats have responded similarly. It seems as though the Trump administration is willing to declassify anything and everything except the Epstein files, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) said in a statement on Wednesday. The desperate and irresponsible release of the partisan House intelligence report puts at risk some of the most sensitive sources and methods our Intelligence Community uses to spy on Russia and keep Americans safe. And in doing so, Director Gabbard is sending a chilling message to our allies and assets around the world: the United States can no longer be trusted to protect the intelligence you share with us. Warner, the vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, also pointed to the bipartisan, unanimous finding of the committee in its 2020 report concluding that Russia did in fact attempt to influence the U.S. election four years earlier to help then-candidate Trump. Nothing in this partisan, previously scuttled document changes that. Releasing this so-called report is just another reckless act by a Director of National Intelligence so desperate to please Donald Trump that she is willing to risk classified sources, betray our allies, and politicize the very intelligence she has been entrusted to protect. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Wednesday released a previously classified House report, her second such disclosure after accusing the intelligence community of a treasonous conspiracy in its review of foreign influence in the 2016 election. The report a 2020 product from the House Intelligence Committee casts doubts on Russian President Vladimir Putins interest in the 2016 election and his desire to aid President Trump in the contest. Its release comes as President Trump has sought to use Gabbards Friday disclosure to pin blame on former President Obama, accusing him of trying to rig the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Numerous intelligence reviews have concluded that Russia aimed to influence the 2016 election and that Putin favored Trump. The House intelligence report released on Wednesday was authored when Republicans controlled the lower chamber. While the newly released information does not undercut the assessment that Russia interfered in the 2016 election, it sheds light on the Obama administrations handling of Russias activity at the time. The House report said the CIA did not adhere to the tenets of analytical standards and said the conclusion Putin took actions to benefit Trump was based on one scant, unclear, and unverifiable fragment of a sentence from one of the substandard reports. Gabbard on Wednesday portrayed the report as a bombshell, saying it exposed the most egregious weaponization and politicization of intelligence in American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard alleged Obama administration officials conspired to subvert the will of the American people, working with their partners in the media to promote the lie, in order to undermine the legitimacy of President Trump, essentially enacting a years-long coup against him. In an appearance at the White House press briefing, Gabbard said the report found Russian President Vladimir Putins principal interests around the 2016 election were to undermine faith in the U.S. democratic process, not show preference of a certain candidate. Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, slammed Gabbard for releasing the report, noting that a bipartisan Senate report backed the CIAs conclusions about Russias aims. It seems as though the Trump administration is willing to declassify anything and everything except the Epstein files, Warner said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets be clear: the bipartisan, unanimous finding of the Senate Intelligence Committee, after years of painstaking investigation, more than 200 witness interviews, and millions of documents, was that Russia launched a large-scale influence campaign in the 2016 election in order to help then-candidate Donald Trump, he added. Nothing in this partisan, previously scuttled document changes that. Releasing this so-called report is just another reckless act by a Director of National Intelligence so desperate to please Donald Trump that she is willing to risk classified sources, betray our allies, and politicize the very intelligence she has been entrusted to protect. Gabbards recent releases around Russian interference in the 2016 election have earned her rave reviews from Trump, who has for years claimed there was a plot by his political enemies to sabotage his 2016 campaign. Shes like hotter than everybody. Shes the hottest one in the room right now, Trump said of Gabbard during a Tuesday night reception with House Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House on Wednesday dismissed a question about whether Gabbards focus on releasing files connected to the 2016 election was intended to improve her standing with her boss. The only people who are suggesting that the director of national intelligence would release evidence to try to boost her standing with the president are the people in this room who constantly try to sow distrust and chaos among the presidents Cabinet. And its not working, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. On Friday, Gabbard released a memo seeking to undercut the findings that Putin tried to swing the election for Trump, but in doing so released documents on claims that are not in dispute. The memo, as well as another 114 pages of related documents, primarily rested on details discussing whether there was a Russian effort to directly manipulate the actual vote count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obama officials at the time, as well as in later intelligence reports, said that the adversary never succeeded in changing any votes. Theyre trying to dispute the proper conclusions of the intelligence community that the Russians were trying to influence the 2016 election by saying they didnt successfully change votes in the machines, said Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), who chaired the House Intelligence Committee at the time the GOP side of the committee was working on their report. No one is claiming they did so theyre being dishonest, and its such a disservice to the American people that Americans cant really trust the leaders of the intelligence community honestly anymore, he added. Despite the report itself largely referencing intelligence about efforts to probe U.S. voting systems, Gabbard argued on social media it shows there was a treasonous conspiracy in 2016 committed by officials at the highest level of our government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their goal was to subvert the will of the American people and enact what was essentially a years-long coup with the objective of trying to usurp the President from fulfilling the mandate bestowed upon him by the American people. Updated at 11:01 a.m. EDT on July 24 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON (AP) As the national intelligence director, Tulsi Gabbard is responsible for guarding America's secrets and discovering threats from overseas. But when she made a surprise appearance in the White House briefing room Wednesday, her targets were President Donald Trumps political enemies. Escalating her attempts to undermine the long-settled conclusion that Russia tried to help Trump beat Hillary Clinton for the presidency nearly a decade ago, she unspooled what she called unshakable proof that then-President Barack Obama and his advisers plotted nothing short of a coup. They conspired to subvert the will of the American people, she said, claiming they fabricated evidence to taint Trumps victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Little of what she said was new, and much of it was baseless. Gabbard said her investigation into the former Democratic administration was designed to stop the weaponization of national security institutions, but it spurred more questions about her own independence atop a spying system intended to provide unvarnished intelligence. Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii who ran for president herself before joining Trumps idiosyncratic political ecosystem, seemed prepared to use her presentation to burnish her own standing. She was trailed by her cinematographer husband, who held a video camera to capture the moment. And Donald Trump, who had previously expressed public doubts about Gabbards analysis of Irans nuclear program, appeared satisfied. He posted a video of her remarks, pinning them at the top of his social media feed. It was a display that cemented Gabbards role as one of Trumps chief agents of retribution, delivering official recognition of Trumps grievances about the Russia investigation that shadowed his first term. The focus on a years-old scandal also served Trumps attempts to shift attention from the Jeffrey Epstein case and questions about the presidents own association with an abuser of underage girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard touts her latest release During her White House remarks, Gabbard said she has referred the documents to the Justice Department to consider for a possible criminal investigation. Hours later, the department announced the creation of a strike force to investigate the findings. Obamas postpresidential office declined to comment Wednesday but issued a rare response a day earlier. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, said Patrick Rodenbush, an Obama spokesman. The White House rejected questions about the timing of Gabbards revelations and whether they were designed to curry favor with Trump or distract attention from the administrations handling of files relating to Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Trump was quick to reward Gabbards loyalty this week, calling her the hottest person in the room. On Wednesday, she released a report by the Republican staff of the House Intelligence Committee produced during the first Trump administration. It did not dispute that Russia interfered in the 2016 election, but cites what it says were trade craft failings in the assessment reached by the intelligence community that Russian President Vladimir Putin influenced the election because he intended for Trump to win. Gabbard went beyond some conclusions of the report in describing its findings from the White House podium. She, along with the report, also seized on the fact that a dossier including uncorroborated tips and salacious gossip about Trumps ties to Russia was referenced in a classified version annex of an intelligence community assessment released in 2017 that detailed Russias interference. The dossier was not the basis for the FBIs decision to open an investigation in July 2016 into potential coordination between the Trump campaign and Russia, but Trump supporters have seized on the unverified innuendo in the document to try to undercut the broader probe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timing of Gabbard's intel reports prompts questions Gabbard said she didn't know why the documents weren't released during Trump's first administration. Her office did not respond to questions about the timing of the release. Responding to a question from a reporter about Gabbard's motivations, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt accused journalists of looking for a story where there wasn't one. The only people who are suggesting that she would release evidence to boost her standing are the people in this room, Leavitt said. Trump, however, has said he wants the media, and the public, to focus on Gabbard's report and not his ties to Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We caught Hillary Clinton. We caught Barack Hussein Obama ... you ought take a look at that and stop talking about nonsense, Trump said Tuesday. CIA Director John Ratcliffe served briefly as director of national intelligence during Trump's first term but did not release any of the information declassified by Gabbard. The CIA declined to comment on Gabbard's remarks Wednesday. Trump and Gabbard's evolving relationship Gabbard told Congress in April that Iran wasnt actively seeking a nuclear weapon, and Trump dismissed her assessment just before U.S. strikes on Iran. I dont care what she said, Trump said in June on Air Force One when asked about Gabbards testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard recently shared her findings about the Russia investigation in an Oval Office meeting with Trump, according to two administration officials who requested anonymity to discuss a private conversation. Afterward, one of the officials said, Trump expressed satisfaction that Gabbards findings aligned with his own beliefs. Other recent releases on the Russia investigation On Friday, Gabbards office released a report that downplayed the extent of Russian interference in the 2016 election by highlighting Obama administration emails showing officials had concluded before and after the presidential race that Moscow had not hacked state election systems to manipulate votes in Trumps favor. But Obamas Democratic administration never suggested otherwise, even as it exposed other means by which Russia interfered in the election, including through a massive hack-and-leak operation of Democratic emails by intelligence operatives working with WikiLeaks, as well as a covert influence campaign aimed at swaying public opinion and sowing discord through fake social media posts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month Ratcliffe released a report criticizing aspects of the intelligence community assessment and suggesting the process had been rushed. The report did not address multiple investigations since then, including a report from the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee in 2020 that reached the same conclusion about Russias influence and motives. Democrats call for Gabbard's resignation Lawmakers from both parties have long stressed the need for an independent intelligence service. Democrats said Gabbards reports show she has placed partisanship and loyalty to Trump over her duty and some have called for her resignation. It seems as though the Trump administration is willing to declassify anything and everything except the Epstein files, Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said in a statement Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warner predicted Gabbard's actions could prompt U.S. allies to share less information for fear it would be politicized or recklessly declassified. But Gabbard enjoys strong support among Republicans. Rep. Rick Crawford, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said she and Ratcliffe were working to put the intelligence community on the path to regaining the trust of the American people. Rep. Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence panel, said Gabbard hasn't offered any reason to ignore the many earlier investigations into Russia's efforts. The Director is free to disagree with the Intelligence Community Assessments conclusion that Putin favored Donald Trump, but her view stands in stark contrast to the verdict rendered by multiple credible investigations, Himes said in a statement. Including the bipartisan report released by the Senate Intelligence Committee. ___ The states Assisted Living Residences Commission was unanimous Wednesday in a vote to extend its work in light of the Gabriel House fire that killed 10 residents and injured dozens more. The commission which was created by long-term care legislation signed into law law year had been required to submit a report by Aug. 1. But given the July 13 tragedy in Fall River that spotlighted the need for updated regulations and oversight in assisted living facilities, the commission was widely encouraged to continue its probe. On Wednesday, commission members voted to extend for no less than 90 days. They also voted to bring in additional public safety and emergency preparedness testimony to further bolster their recommendations to lawmakers and the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Mark Montigny, D-Second Bristol and Plymouth, said extending the work of the commission was not only responsible, but essential. The only good thing that can come out of this tragedy is the mission is not only broadened, but the urgency is different, he said. The advocates have been clamoring for this stuff for years and it doesnt get done. And we are in a place where there is a spotlight on this commission. At Wednesdays meeting, members discussed the importance of diving deeper into the evolving medical needs of assisted living residents, as well as the affordable model versus private pay that some claim contributed to poor conditions at Gabriel House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabriel House participated in the states Group Adult Foster Care Program, which provides financial support from MassHealth aimed at keeping people out of nursing homes. Approximately 75% of residents at Gabriel House were on MassHealth, the state has said. The studio apartments there cost between $1,850 and $2,400, paid for by residents Social Security because MassHealth doesnt cover room and board for assisted living. Some senior care advocates have argued the reliance on government assistance to run an assisted living facility doesnt leave much surplus to ensure necessary resident care and upkeep of buildings. The fire changed what we need to do said Sen. Pat Jehlen, D-Second Middlesex, who mentioned the Group Adult Foster Care Programs low rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members also expressed interest in hearing more from consumers assisted living residents or their family members and less from industry representatives. Montigny blamed the special interests lobby for killing or dumbing down good long-term care bills on Beacon Hill in the past. Linsday Mitnik, an elder law attorney, floated the idea of offering Gabriel House residents the opportunity to share their experiences with the commission. She said the consumer perspective has been lacking. Across the board, affordable versions from housing to medical facilities are always not given the same level of attention, Mitnik said. Thats a pretty systemic issue. And I think that this is our opportunity to do that and to make sure that just because something is more affordable does not mean that it is not at the same level of regulation, care, oversight and quality as less-affordable options. Read more: Gabriel House resident who filed lawsuit was found unconscious on third floor during fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consumer representative Kathleen Lynch Moncata, who is also an elder law attorney, urged the commission to broaden its emergency planning perspective to include other disasters such as flooding. She also mentioned the importance of congregate living facilities having generators. We cant ignore what happened in Fall River, she said. Gov. Maura Healey has already announced some immediate actions in the days since the fire. This week, the Executive Office of Aging and Independence launched a statewide fire and life safety initiative to ensure all 273 assisted living residences in Massachusetts are prepared to protect residents during emergencies. Facilities are required to submit disaster and emergency preparedness plans for state review within 30 calendar days, as well as complete a fire safety assessment survey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assisted living residences were also directed to issue a letter to residents and families outlining emergency plans within five business days. We want a way to collect the information from every building out there to make sure everybody is compliant, Aging and Independence Secretary Robin Lipson said Wednesday. On Tuesday, state fire officials announced the fire at Gabriel House originated in a second-floor residents room, and was caused by either an electrical or mechanical failure of an oxygen concentrator or the improper use or disposal of smoking materials Since investigators couldnt pinpoint one specific cause, it will remain undetermined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabriel House owner Dennis Etzkorn has not responded to any of MassLives inquiries since the fire. On Monday, he issued a statement through a spokesperson addressing the devastating events while applauding heroic first responder efforts. Deadly Gabriel House fire Read the original article on MassLive. The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO) on Tuesday reported mixed second-quarter 2025 earnings and revenue. The food and beverage giant reported adjusted earnings of 87 cents per share, beating the consensus of 83 cents. Net revenues grew 1% to $12.50 billion, almost in line with the consensus of $12.54 billion, and organic revenues grew 5%. Revenue performance included a 6% growth in price/mix and a 1% decline in concentrate sales, which were in line with unit case volume. Operating margin was 34.1%, and comparable operating margin was 34.7%. Comparable operating margin expansion was driven by organic revenue growth, the timing of marketing investments, and effective cost management, partially offset by currency headwinds. Also Read: PepsiCo To Launch Cane Sugar-Based Prebiotic Cola This Fall To Counter Declining Soda Consumption Unit case volume declined 1%, as growth in Central Asia, Argentina, and China was more than offset by declines in Mexico, India, and Thailand. Sparkling soft drinks declined 1%. Trademark Coca-Cola declined 1%, as growth in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa was more than offset by a decline in Latin America. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar grew 14%, driven by growth across all geographic operating segments. Sparkling flavors declined 2%, as growth in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa was more than offset by a decline in Asia Pacific. Juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages declined 4%, as growth in Latin America was more than offset by a decline in Asia Pacific. Water, sports, coffee and tea was even. Water was even, as growth in Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and Africa was offset by a decline in Latin America. Sports drinks declined 3%, as growth in North America was more than offset by a decline in Latin America. Coffee grew 1%, primarily driven by growth in Asia Pacific. Tea was even, as growth in Europe, Middle East and Africa was offset primarily by a decline in North America. View more earnings on KO This fall, as part of its ongoing innovation, the company plans to launch a new U.S. cane sugar-based offering in the United States, expanding its Trademark Coca-Cola product range to provide more choices. This announcement follows recent public commentary, including a social media post by President Donald Trump last week, indicating prior discussions and agreement on the change with company executives. In the second-quarter earnings conference call, Coca-Colas CEO attributed volume declines in North America to continued uncertainty and pressure on some socioeconomic segments of consumers. When flames broke out at Steven Oldrids Fall River assisted living facility last week, he followed the instructions posted on the back of his studio apartment door. Close it and stay in your room, his attorney, Robin Gouveia, paraphrased. As the five-alarm fire spread through Gabriel House on the evening of July 13, Oldrid who uses a power chair and lived on the third floor of the building suffered smoke inhalation and respiratory distress. He ultimately went unconscious on the floor of his room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescued by first responders and still hospitalized more than a week later with complications, Oldrid, who is 69, doesnt know where hes going to live once discharged, Gouveia said. Now, Oldrid is suing his former residence of three years and its management after the fire killed 10 people and injured dozens of others. Read more: Former Gabriel House resident files lawsuit after deadly fire His lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Bristol County Superior Court, accuses Gabriel Care, Inc. of negligence. It also seeks damages to cover Oldrids additional expenses for hospitalization and treatment. The subject facility was not properly managed, staffed, maintained, or supervised; residency rules were not enforced and emergency response procedures were not in place, the lawsuit reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about the guidance for residents to remain in their rooms, Gouveia said, Its horrible if you dont have enough staff to go get your residents. And many of these residents have mobility issues, so certainly if youre going to have that kind of requirement, you need to have enough staff to get them. According to the National Fire Protection Associations nursing home recommendations, closing doors to patient rooms is advised as a quick response when a fire breaks out that should be followed by a coordinated evacuation. Many Gabriel House residents have said two staff members were on shift the night of July 13 to care for 70-plus people, and that no one came to get them from their rooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gouveia, of personal injury law firm dOliveira & Associates, said prior to the fire and unrelated, but indicative of facility conditions the buildings elevator was broken for nine months. Several current and former residents have corroborated that, saying that third-floor residents with mobility challenges were essentially confined there. He was in the building for nine months, Gouveia said of Oldrid. He couldnt leave. He said, I didnt leave the building for nine months. The lawsuit argues there werent enough staff to care for the residents living at the Gabriel House, Gouveia said, and that its evacuation plan was ineffective. Oldrid also told Gouveia that while smoking in the building was prohibited, everybody smoked inside and nothing was done about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smoking may have ultimately been related to the fire. On Tuesday, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the flames originated in a second-floor residents room, and was caused by either an electrical or mechanical failure of an oxygen concentrator or the improper use or disposal of smoking materials. Numerous smoking materials were found in the room of origin, according to fire officials. Since investigators couldnt pinpoint one specific cause, it will remain undetermined, Davine said. Read more: Potential causes of fatal Gabriel House fire in Fall River revealed Gouveia expects there will be more lawsuits filed by injured residents in the coming days and weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we have a very strong case against the company and the management and the owner of that building for sure, she said. A spokesman for Gabriel House, which is owned by Dennis D. Etzkorn, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday about the lawsuit. But in a statement released Monday, the spokesperson, on behalf of Etzkorn, said, There are no words to adequately convey the depths of our grief and shock over the devastating events of July 13 at the Gabriel House. Indeed, to call what occurred that night a tragedy is an understatement. Our hearts are broken for the victims and their families; their losses will never be forgotten. In the same statement, Gabriel House ownership claimed the buildings sprinkler system worked five days prior to the fire. Deadly Gabriel House fire Read the original article on MassLive. On Saturday, Alexander Rohrig and Carolyn Applegate will discuss their work in an artist walk-through at RAM. The free event at the Old Town Kern gallery will allow the duo to share insights into their practices, concepts and visual approaches that shape their respective exhibitions: Rohrig's "Off Leash" and Applegate's "The L.A. Series." An admirer of her gallery mate, Applegate joked that she might not have to add much to the conversation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "His show is so amazing that I think I won't really have much time to speak." "He could easily sculpt David. He's so good. ... I can't imagine what I can say after he talks about his art." Rohrig brings an honest look at pastoral life in his collection of oil paintings and sculptures that "examine the layered relationships between humans, animals and landscape," according to exhibit notes. A series of sculptural dog portraits, carved from wood or stone, serve as metaphors for connection, control and presence. "Certain materials want to be something," he wrote of his work. "And their message is transferred through touch." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In considering how to discuss her own work, Applegate said she thought of the words of painter and graphic artist Robert Rauschenberg. "I once heard Robert Rauschenberg speak about his work. He said, 'It's what it is. It's nothing more. Basically that's it. To try and read into it is up to the viewer. There is really no particular hidden meaning." Applegate's series of abstract paintings on display were created when she lived in Los Angeles in the 1980s and '90s. "When I paint, Im in a meditative state.I go to a space where I do nothing but just focus on the painting. No disruptions." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The artist cited the importance of having a studio space, recalling one she had near LAX and another in downtown L.A. when artists were first moving to the area. "I was very happy and my paintings reflected that." Applegate is also pleased to share her work with the community she has called home for the last decade. (Her work is also currently on display at the Powell Gallery at Locale Farm to Table.) Working with RAM gallery director and co-owner Rachel Wainwright has been an enjoyable experience. "Its a beautiful gallery. She is so knowledgeable." Doors open at 10 a.m. Saturday at the gallery, 614 Kentucky St. Coffee and doughnuts will be served. The free talk starts at 10:30 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rohrig's and Applegate's work will remain on display through Aug. 23. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday or by appointment. Email info@galleryram.com to schedule. Visit galleryram.com or email info@galleryram.com for more information. The City of Garland has joined a growing coalition of suburbs challenging the leadership of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). On Monday, the city unanimously approved language to vote on an upcoming resolution that criticizes the agencys governance, transparency, and funding practices. As part of The Dallas Express ongoing investigation into DARTs board, financial management, and service failures, Garlands action marks the latest public backlash following a letter from DART Chair Gary Slagel that suburban officials describe as an ultimatum. Whos on the DART Board? As of July 2025, these are the 15 individuals overseeing the $2 billion taxpayer-funded agency all of whom declined to comment when contacted by The Dallas Express: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gary A. Slagel Chair; represents Richardson, Addison, Highland Park, and University Park (since 2011 ) Randall B. Bryant Vice Chair; represents Dallas (since 2024 ) M. Nathan Barbera Secretary; represents Plano and Farmers Branch (since 2022 ) Mark C. Enoch Represents Garland, Glenn Heights, and Rowlett (since 1997 ) Richard H. Stopfer Represents Irving (since 2013 ) Michele Wong Krause Represents Dallas (since 2014 ) Patrick J. Kennedy Represents Dallas (since 2016 ) Doug S. Hrbacek Represents Carrollton and Irving (since 2019 ) Carmen Garcia Represents Dallas (since 2022 ) Marc C. Abraham Represents Garland (since 2023 ) Enrique A. MacGregor Represents Cockrell Hill and Dallas (since 2023 ) Anthony Ricciardelli Represents Plano (since 2025 ) Maureen Milligan Represents Dallas (since 2025 ) DAndrala D. Alexander Dallas (since 2025 ) Flora M. Hernandez Dallas (since 2025) We Need To Take a Stand Garland Mayor Dylan Hedrick said the city has contributed nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars to DART since joining and in return, has received broken promises and misleading statements. We had a previous conversation with DART, and we feel like they werent holding their end of the bargain, Hedrick told The Dallas Express. It felt like DART had given us an ultimatum and all the member cities that you have to agree to our terms. Were a little disappointed. It just created a rift. I think its time for us to take a stand, he said during the July 21 session. If DART is not going to keep up their end of the bargain we need to let them know that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garland City Manager Judson Rex said the resolution emphasized five core failures: Erosion of trust and politicized decision-making Declining system performance and accountability Safety and access concerns Fare hikes and fiscal challenges An inflexible service model Rex said Garland leaders were especially disturbed by the July 17 letter first reported by The Dallas Express, in which Slagel told mayors that if they wanted General Mobility Program (GMP) funds 5% of sales tax revenue they would need to pass resolutions pledging to abandon support for legislation that would reduce DARTs funding. Slagel wrote, We ask you to clarify your position on receiving the General Mobility Program by committing not to pursue any further legislation against DART a line Garland officials interpreted as a direct ultimatum. It felt like DART had given us an ultimatum, Hedrick said. You have to agree to our terms. A Ruse to Get Past Legislation Mayor Pro Tem Margaret Lucht said DARTs promises ring hollow. Quite honestly, I just dont believe a word they say, she said. DART used the GMP to avoid reform legislation. In public comments, Lucht, Rex, and others said Slagels letter confirmed what they had long suspected: that DART leadership was never serious about collaboration only preserving power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rex called the claim that cities failed to provide solutions personally offensive, noting that dozens of ideas had been proposed in meetings over multiple years. The DART issue is at an impasse, Rex said. The letter confirmed what we had long suspected they had different motives all along. Theyre not acknowledging the work thats been done. Theyre dismissing it. Rex also expressed concern about DARTs recent letter in the city council work session. He echoed Hedricks point that the letter read like an ultimatum. The letter really acknowledged what we suspected to be true, that DART was essentially positioning themselves with the General Mobility Program to try to pass something that would really prevent a legislative route from being pursued, Rex said. DART makes it very publicly clear in that letter that they had some different motives. Garland officials, like others in Plano and Carrollton, have supported legislative reform efforts. Senate Bill 2118 would have required equal board representation among DART member cities. House Bill 3187 would have allowed cities to divert 25% of their sales tax revenue from DART to local transportation projects. DART officials opposed both bills, with spokesperson Jeamy Molina previously telling The Dallas Express the legislation would have killed DART. Broken Promises and Board Silence Councilman Jeff Bass accused DART of reneging on commitments made to Garland and other cities. They made promises, and then immediately reversed course with no warning whatsoever, he said. Councilwoman Carissa Dutton called the agencys behavior extortion. DART has been like the worst, narcissistic relationship weve ever been in as a city, she said. Youre not the boss of us we give you a lot of money. Youre not going to give us some extortion deadline. What in the world? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Councilman B.J. Williams echoed the frustration. If we continue to do nothing, theyre going to continue to do nothing. Leadership Under Fire The resolution comes as pressure builds on the DART Board of Directors, now facing criticism from multiple cities. Slagels letter was co-signed by: DART CEO Nadine Lee Chief Communications Officer Jeamy Molina Michael Morris, Director of Transportation for the North Central Texas Council of Governments The Dallas Express has reached out repeatedly to all 15 board members for comment on allegations of political coercion, fiscal mismanagement, and rising crime. None have responded. Slagels letter required participating cities to pass a resolution by August 31 in order to receive GMP funds. Garland is not a GMP recipient but objected to the strings attached especially since DART had previously approved the GMP with no such conditions. These are new, unexpected demands, Rex said. Its an about-face from what we were told by CEO Nadine Lee. What Comes Next Some cities may explore exiting DART entirely in 2026, when the next opt-out window opens. Garland is not alone Plano, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Irving, and Highland Park have all raised concerns about board structure, funding disparity, safety, and service reliability. As The Dallas Express continues its investigation into DARTs leadership, financial priorities, and governance structure, the agencys silence and mounting suburban backlash are becoming impossible to ignore. Gay men face alarming suicide rates amid declining mental health resources Mental health has been in the spotlight for the last few yearsand the need for resources is more dire than ever, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. Several studies have confirmed the toll that various factors have taken on the demographic. For example, when compared to heterosexual males and females, gay men are six times more likely and lesbian females are two times more likely to attempt suicide, and it is one of the leading causes of death for gay men. Unfortunately, there is no empirical data to substantiate the number of suicides within the queer community. News is Out discusses some of the contributing factors to suicide rates among gay men in the face of federal cuts to life-saving services. Identifying causes The causes of suicide among gay men are myriad. Some include psychiatric disorders, depression, anxiety, discrimination, homophobia, bullying and substance abuse. In older gay men, risk factors can include stressful life events, family history or even financial problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have historically lacked data but we have the lived experiences of LGBTQ people. We dont have specifics about gay men; Ive found that the data is labelled under MSMmen who have sex with men, said Daniel C. Eggerding, a Chicagoan who is a 988 counselor with The Trevor Project, a leading LGBTQ+ youth suicide prevention organization. The minority stress model [which identifies processes through which minority stress influences mental health for sexual minorities] is the main indicator of suicide among marginalized groups such as LGBTQ people and even veterans. Its not that theyre more at risk because of identity; its more about societal stigma and those other stress factors: anti-LGBTQ policy and legislation, historical discrimination. Most people arent taking their lives because theyre gay or queer. Its more about everyday stressors: anxiety or finances. The top [factors] are the stigma, affordability, people being afraid they wouldnt be taken seriously, being scared of hospitalization or even criminalization. Bullying is a top one, too. Conversion therapywhich purportedly aims to change a persons sexual orientation or gender identityis also an issue for some. Twenty-three states and D.C. currently ban the practice for minors, according to the Movement Advancement Project. However, a Trevor Project report found that there are still more than 1,000 such therapists. Its a state and local thingand its a sign of our political climate, Eggerding said. This administration and RFK are promoting conversion therapy by a different name now, but we have made major progress against it in the past 20 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And speaking of the Trump administration, there is no denying that the president has had a major impact on gay people and suicideand it started with the news that he was elected last November. The 19th reported that The Trevor Project saw an overall 700% increase in calls, texts and chats after Trump was elected, compared to prior weeks. All of the crisis-care services and the Crisis Care Continuum had to handle all those messages, Eggerding said. Weve seen the direct impact of just even talking about anti-LGBTQ politics and rhetoric. Also, people have moved from state to state because of whats happening. A stat we have is that 90% of young LGBTQ people (13-24) said that their well-being was negatively impacted due to recent politics. If thats not alarming, I dont know what is. We have a lot of work to do. A nightmare becomes reality With the increases in gay men (and everyone else in the LGBTQ+ community) attempting and dying of suicide, the last thing one would need is to have life-saving telecommunications services being taken away. However, that nightmarish idea has become a reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Health and Human Services had proposed a budget for 2026 that eliminates specialized suicide hotline services for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. The budget proposal would designate $520 million for 988, the suicide prevention line, as well as behavioral health crisis servicesthe same amount the Biden administration provided for 988. However, the 2026 proposal would end government funding for LGBTQ+-specific counseling to 988 callers upon request, with services ending Oct. 1. Rachel Cauley, a spokesperson for the White Houses Office of Management and Budget, said at the time that the budget didnt grant taxpayer money to a chat service where children are encouraged to embrace radical gender ideology by counselors without consent or knowledge of their parents. The term radical gender ideology represents part of the anti-trans rhetoric the Trump administration has embraced. But a newand devastatingwrinkle has taken place. On June 17, SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) issued a statement saying, On July 17, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will no longer silo LGB+ youth services, also known as the Press 3 option, to focus on serving all help seekers, including those previously served through the Press 3 option. The Press 3 option was established as a pilot program in Fiscal Year 2022 under a government agreement with a third party. The Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus included a Congressional directive for $29.7 million to fund the specialized services. Federal funding in FY24 for the Press 3 services increased to $33 million. As of June 2025, more than $33 million in funds have been spent to support the subnetworks, fully expending the monies allocated for 988 Lifeline LGB+ subnetwork services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, SAMSHA also claimed that everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will continue to receive access to skilled, caring, culturally competent crisis counselors who can help with suicidal, substance misuse, or mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress. Anyone who calls the Lifeline will continue to receive compassion and help. When asked what his greatest fear was before the SAMSHAs act, Eggerding responded, Tragedy and preventable crises Yes, I might lose a job [with the lack of funding]but its so much bigger than me. My biggest fear is that there would be a lack of progress after we come so far. It would be such a devastating thing. Millions of people are reaching out; its clear that we need this program. After what transpired on June 17, Eggerding sent a more official statement: This service has been more than a phone lineits truly been a lifeline for LGBTQ+ youth in crisis. Budgets are moral documents of priorities, and this decision is a moral failure. It sends a message that affirming care, which we know has saved countless young lives, is not worth funding. Even when it was passed through Congress. Even when it had bipartisan support. Again and again, queer and trans youth are told they are not worth the investment. But the public health crisis of suicide is one of the leading causes of death for young people in the U.S, and we know that LGBTQ+ youth, youth of color, and more communities are at even greater risk. When our service veterans reach out to 988, they can press 1 to get specialized, culturally competent support. That option exists because we understand that certain communities face unique challenges and deserve this specialized carenot specialized treatment that puts one life or group over another, but specialized care and connection with trained, affirming professionals who understand the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ young people in this country. LGBTQ+ youth deserve the same access to care and safety as any other American. Over 1.3 million people have used this service in just a few years. Behind every number is a young person who found help, maybe the only place they could. If that doesnt justify keeping this service, what does at this point? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is one very sobering statistic to consider: Each year, 1.8 million LGBTQ+ young people consider suicide, according to The Trevor Project. Factor in those older than their mid-20s, and there would seem to be a bona fide crisis. Protective factors So with all the risk factors connected to suicide, what can people do to lessen the possibility of an attempt? There are protective factors, some of which are more immediate, while others are more long-term. There are so many that come to mind, said Eggerding. Being human, being compassionate; trusting that people know who they are and whats best for themthats the American Dream, right? So, the support, the affirmation, the advocacy; not supporting politicians who advocate for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation; respecting pronouns, which is huge; asking questions; or even actions like having a Pride flag, [as] acts of solidarity can go a long way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those in crisis can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), call or text 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. Regarding The Trevor Project, people can text START to 678678 or call 866-488-7386. This story was produced by News Is Out and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Her escape from the strip was done as an operation to smuggle all of the families of several key Hamas leaders during the first months of the war. Yahya Sinwar's widow fled to Turkey and remarried there after her husband's death, according to Gaza sources cited in a report by Ynet. Her escape from the strip was done as an operation to smuggle all of the families of several key Hamas leaders during the first months of the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report claimed that Sinwar's widow, Samar Abu Zamar, was smuggled out of Gaza with a fake passport. "She's not here anymore; she's in Turkey with the children," a Gazan source told the Israeli news site. "She crossed the Rafah crossing with a fake passport of another woman from Gaza. This required logistical assistance, high-level coordination, and a lot of money that an average Gazan doesnt have," the source added. The report also noted that Abu Zamar remarried in Turkey a couple of months after her husbands death, with the main intermediary between the couple being Fathi Hamad, a prominent senior member of Hamass political bureau. Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar attends a rally marking the anniversary of Land Day, in Gaza City, March 30, 2022. (credit: ATTIA MUHAMMED/FLASH90) Families of Hamas leadership flee There is another key figure missing in Gaza, according to the report: The widow of Yahya Sinwar's brother, Mohammed Sinwar, Najwa Sinwar. Although there are no clear indications that she also left the Strip, there is a clear absence of pictures or reports that indicate that she is still in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With this in mind, Israeli security sources confirmed that both Abu Zamar and Najwa Sinwar left Gaza through the Rafah crossing. On the other hand, the only key figure who has provided any evidence that shes still in Gaza is Umm Khaled, the wife of Muhammad Deif. A video published online shows her in a simple house with her three children, stating that shes not running away, Im here with my people." She then added, "In our house, we have four mattresses and a mat. Thats how it was before the war and after." A Palestinian source claimed, according to the report, that Hamas leadership had a whole covert operation for this escape, including fake passports, fictitious medical documents, logistical support, and assistance from embassies of supportive countries. Its no secret that the film and TV industry is getting more risk-averse. The projects awarded generous budgets are often anchored by existing IP (see: Disneys constant stream of live-action remakes, endless Jurassic Park sequels or HBOs Harry Potter reboot). Now the industrys play-it-safe ethos is spilling over into documentaries, with an unrelenting true-crime obsession among viewers and creative teams alike resulting in a steady churn of murder docs. Celebrity-led biographical projects, too, have swept in and emerged more popular than ever: Netflixs Beckham accrued 3.8 million views in the U.K. alone in its launch week, and Paramount+s new Eminem feature Stans just landed a limited U.S. theater run in August. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This cautiousness is even more pronounced in the political documentary space, especially in the U.S. where they arent being made at all. Financiers wont back them; whether thats down to Trump-driven fear or consumer-led strategy, edgy content isnt finding a way through. The same goes for the U.K.: a risk-averse climate has shifted the kinds of topics being tackled in the doc genre over the last 10 years. I think broadcasters and commissioners, they want to know what the story is, says producer Ahmed Peerbux. They want to know how it ends. They want to know the beats. They want everything up front so they know that theyre banking on something sound. This is where an initiative from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts is hoping to help. Peerbux is part of 20 documentary and specialist factual filmmakers participating in the eight-year-old BAFTA Elevate scheme, which platforms creatives with underrepresented backgrounds across the academys industry-spanning network to reach the next stage of their career. This new generation of filmmakers are aiming to respond to a polarizing political climate and increasingly digital world, blending personal storytelling with political urgency in an age where authoritarianism looms large and trust in the worlds media has never been more critical. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poppy Jay, whose recent work includes making and starring in the BBCs Young, British and Anti-Abortion and Young, Black and Right-Wing, wants to garner support in making edgier films that are tackling politically-charged content head-on. Its a unique and privileged position to be in, to go into so many different worlds and have people trust you, Jay tells THR. But its frustrating as well, because the gatekeepers who commission these stories, their world view is one way and I see the world in another way because of my skin color and as a woman and my experience. Shaminder Nahal, head of specialist factual at Channel 4, is one of the key commissioners hoping to shift the industry from within by looking to the talent on BAFTA Elevate. Todays world is unbelievably complex, uncertain and polarized, and its all of our jobs to engage with that, says Nahal. Among Nahals recent comissions for Channel 4 are Defiance: Fighting the Far Right, looking at an Asian community in Britain who stood up to a racist campaign of violence and murder between 1976 and 1981, and Britain Under the Nazis: The Forgotten Occupation, about the Nazi occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We actively want to take risks, be disruptive and challenging, Nahal says of the commissions she makes in the current climate. We want to make a splash, and tell stories that say something about Britain and this has never felt more urgent than now, against a backdrop of a rapidly changing country and a ferociously turbulent world [Were] grappling with changing politics, new technology and so many questions about who we are and what the future is going to be like. Nahal adds that audiences are increasingly more interested in the history space, mostly thanks to podcasts. Some of Channel 4s most recent commissions are hoping to reflect this political push-and-pull between past and present. Seventy-two Films are making a series on Tony Blair, one of our most significant prime ministers, Nahal says. And Swan Films are telling the story of the extraordinary Mitford sisters and through their lives well see some of the major events of the 20th century playing out. [They are] the Kardashians of their age, also deeply controversial, some of them being close to Hitler and steeped in the rise of British fascism all of which offers a fascinating perspective on today. But contrary to what some might think, insiders say many viewers arent always looking for an escape from current times, and do in fact want to be confronted with whats happening in the world, as long as its being approached in a fresh way. Rajesh Thind, producer and director of Channel 4s Defiance: Fighting the Far Right doc, tells THR that viewers are desperate for new stories. It makes really good business and commercial and creative sense to be seeking out stories that havent been told, he says. In a time like this, documentaries have a real role to play. Were all living through this, he says of the tumultuous political landscape, rise of AI and billionaire-backed government departments (see: Elon Musks Doge branch, which he has now stepped back from). Thind added: And we all need to try and make sense of it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peerbux, producer of 2025s Grenfell: Uncovered, says that working on the Netflix U.K.-commissioned film was about making people angry. The feature is a bleak exploration of the decisions made that led to a London tower block being engulfed by a fire in the summer of 2017. Director Olaide Sadiq drags into the spotlight the incompetence and greed of officials and companies, among them the local council, who erected decorative, cheap and highly flammable cladding around the tower. When it caught fire 72 people perished a majority of them minorities who lived in the culturally diverse London neighborhood in an entirely avoidable tragedy. The U.K. parliament later commissioned an independent review of building regulations and fire safety as the government investigates tower blocks with similar cladding. Efforts to replace the cladding on these buildings, a side effect of the Grenfell-triggered U.K. cladding crisis, are ongoing. Millions of people wont read an inquiry report, Peerbux says about making Grenfells story accessible. Its technical, its complicated. But lots of people subscribe to Netflix and its reaching people in a way that you might not otherwise be able to. The British are no strangers to bringing about political and societal change with the help of sincere television. ITVs narrative feature Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office depicted how hundreds of sub-postmasters were wrongly convicted of theft the true cause was a faulty IT system between 1999 and 2015. The series, with Toby Jones in the titular role, prompted such outrage among viewers that the government exonerated victims and compensated them in thousands of pounds. Former Post Office boss Paula Vennells was publicly vilified and stripped of her CBE, a prestigious honor awarded by the King. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sadiq and Peerbuxs Grenfell project went on to win the audience award at the 2025 Sheffield DocFest. Its something, Peerbux says, that necessitated patience. Many documentaries these days are quick turnaround, produced in a matter of days in order to capitalize on a story while its fresh in the news cycle, and in peoples minds, too. Some untruths, mistakes, can can slip in there if people are really squeezed and youve got a few weeks to look at this enormous issue. He sings Netflixs praises: We had months to really do this properly and to digest the research, to speak with people on the ground and comb through the primary documents in minute detail And actually, for Netflix to have commissioned something like Grenfell: Uncovered, its not what youd necessarily expect from that platform. Theres clearly an appetite for it, he says of political storytelling. You cant say that, Oh no, people will be switched off by it. [Grenfell: Uncovered] has been number one [on Netflix in the U.K.] for days. Peerbux hopes it signals to other commissioners to take risks, and rely on filmmakers that pore over the fine details. Ive been completely glued to my screen and Im horrified, he adds about getting his news from social media. No ones really sure of anything anymore. Theres reassurance in the fact that something has been well-resourced. People want to go somewhere trustworthy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thind, Jay and Peerbux have found solace in BAFTA Elevate. Were becoming a little production unit, Thind says. One of my fellow cohort colleagues came and helped me on a shoot recently for a new feature doc about a musician that Im starting on my own back. Adds Jay: We have information at our fingertips in a way that the generations above probably didnt. And we want solutions. We want to disrupt what were seeing. While making Young, British and Anti-Abortion, she ran into an issue thats becoming an increasingly difficult hurdle to clear for documentarians in the age of social media. I remember a [potential interviewee] who was so, so good. And I had to say no politely, because she would have been absolutely trolled and ripped to pieces online [if featured in the film], and her mental health would have suffered. Its a different world for documentarians who are dealing with new problems all the time. Jay says she wants to keep pushing the boundaries. You have to really delicately tread a balance between what you want to make, and pick your battles, she says. The BBC are under so much scrutiny now. Theyre brilliant in many ways, but it can be a challenge, because they are scrutinized by The Daily Mail, theyre scrutinized by the public, and they cant win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which is why Im like, Just fuck everyone and make the thing that you want to make. Because youre damned if you do and youre damned if you dont. BAFTA Elevate, supported by dunhill, empowers creatives from underrepresented backgrounds to progress their careers in film and television. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The George Mason University Board of Visitors' Academic Programs, Diversity and University Committee met on April 17, 2025. (Photo by Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury) A group of George Mason University professors declared that the Board of Visitors had failed to defend President Gregory Washington and the institution from political attacks in a vote of no confidence. The move follows the recent launch of a federal civil rights investigation at the school that triggered an outpouring of support for the school and Washington, the first Black president, from students, alumni, Democratic Virginia legislators and the states first Black governor. The GMU chapter of the American Association of University Professors (GMU-AAUP)s formalization of its displeasure with the governing board on Tuesday with a vote of no confidence, indicates that the voting majority lacks support for a leader or governing body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Masons Board of Visitors has shown time and again that they care more about their partisan agendas than their duty to support and advance Masons public mission, said GMU-AAUP President Bethany Letieca in a statement on Wednesday. The boards failure to defend President Washington from a politically motivated pressure campaign was the final straw. The GMU-AAUPs resolution accuses the board of abdication of its fiduciary duty, or failing to fulfill their responsibilities as members, after four federal investigations were launched by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice targeting the institutions diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, employees employment practices, treatment of students and a separate investigation into alleged antisemitism on campus. The GMU-AAUP also criticized the board for its decision to hire Torridon Law PLLC, a firm founded by former U.S. Attorney General William Barr and staffed by attorneys connected to President Donald Trumps administration. The chapter argues that this action compromises the universitys defense and aligns the board with partisan attacks. It warns that the investigations are part of a larger effort to politicize and control the university. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look, its not complicated, GMU-AAUP Vice President Timothy Gibson said in a statement on Wednesday. The Trump administration wants to push out GMU President Washington so they can replace him with a MAGA loyalist and exert control over GMUs curriculum and governance. The Virginia Mercury has contacted George Mason for the boards comment on the vote, ahead of a scheduled planning meeting on July 31 followed by its annual meeting Aug. 1. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) Georgetown County leaders on Tuesday mothballed a controversial proposal that was one vote away from outlawing surf fishing during the busiest months of the year. The move came amid weeks of public outcry by anglers who said it was a kneejerk reaction to a problem that doesnt exist. Many community members who attended the council meeting said officials went too far as they worked to craft the ordinance that was unanimously approved last month on a second reading. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Council, lets work this out for the betterment of the community. These guys here tonight deserve better, said John Shytle, owner of Myrtle Beach Surf Fishing Advenutures. Opponents from Murrells Inlet to Georgetown filled council chambers to protest a rule change that would bar surf fishing from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. during peak summer months. Council members said their goal was to specifically target shark fishing, fearful that bringing one of the animals to shore would threaten public safety. But opponents said an outright prohibition infringes on their state-protected rights to hunt and fish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People love Georgetown because its not Myrtle Beach, one resident said. Murrells Inlet angler challenging Horry Countys land-based shark fishing ban Please, dont let a few people determine how the rest of us enjoy our beautiful beaches, said another. Shytle runs his own business bringing in sharks from the beach, and said hes proud of how the community banded together over the issue. If you were to look in the council room tonight, (it) was packed full of surf fishermen that are here to make sure that the Georgetown County residents and visitors can continue surf fishing in the future, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Council chairman Clint Elliott, who represents Murrells Inlet, said the plan was never to limit surf fishing in general. A public forum is planned sometime in the future with guidance from state lawmakers and law enforcement. Were not trying to restrict anybody from making a living, he said. Were just trying to restrict people from making a living which might possibly hurt other people. Now that the ordinance is dead, it may be months or even years before county leaders revisit it. * * * 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. Advertisement 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. Sales of existing homes dropped more than expected in June, the latest sign that record-high prices and elevated mortgage rates are extending the housing markets deep freeze. After jumping in May, sales last month fell 2.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.93 million, according to National Association of Realtors data released on Wednesday. Sales came in worse than expected; economists had forecast a smaller decline to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4 million homes. Spring is historically the busiest time of year for home sales, but all signs point to 2025 being another subdued year. June sales typically reflect homes that went under contract in April or May the markets busy period. But mortgage rates have remained in the high 6% area for much of the year while prices hit a new record, straining affordability for buyers even when the labor market and economy look healthy. Read more: Historical mortgage rates: How do they compare to current rates? The mismatch more jobs, fewer home sales is really coming from the affordability challenges, specifically higher mortgage rates, Lawrence Yun, the NARs chief economist, said on a conference call to discuss the data. Year over year, the median existing home price rose 2% to a new record high of $435,300, according to NAR data. Most of the country saw a sales slump in June. The steepest declines came in the pricey Northeast where buyers still generally outnumber sellers, and home prices are rising the fastest. There, sales dropped 8% from a month earlier, while prices were up 4.2% in the last year to an average of $543,300. Sign up for the Mind Your Money weekly newsletter Subscribe By subscribing, you are agreeing to Yahoo's Terms and Privacy Policy Sales contracted 4% month over month in the Midwest where for-sale inventory is also more constrained. Prices there were up 3.4% since June 2024. Only the West eked out a sales gain in June, rising 1.4% from May, though sales in that region are down 4.1% from a year earlier. Learn more: What's the best time of year to buy a house? Claire Boston is a Senior Reporter for Yahoo Finance covering housing, mortgages, and home insurance. Sign up for the Mind Your Money newsletter Click here for the latest personal finance news to help you with investing, paying off debt, buying a home, retirement, and more Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance BERLIN (AP) A German court on Wednesday acquitted a satirist who was charged with having approved of an assassination attempt against Donald Trump during last year's U.S. election campaign in a social media post and disturbed the public peace. In a quickly deleted post under his alias El Hotzo on X in July last year, Sebastian Hotz drew a parallel between Trump and the last bus and wrote unfortunately just missed. In a follow-up post, he wrote: I find it absolutely fantastic when fascists die. A gunman opened fire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, while Trump was campaigning for president last July, grazing Trumps ear and killing one of his supporters in the crowd. Trump went on to win the White House in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors charged Hotz with approval of offenses. At a one-day trial at the Tiergarten district court in Berlin, prosecutors called for the 29-year-old to be handed a 6,000-euro ($7,030) fine. They argued that the posts fell into the category of hate crimes and, because Hotz has nearly 740,000 followers on X, could disturb the public peace, German news agency dpa reported. Hotz argued that what a satirist says should be understood as a joke, and that playing with provocation is his job. Judge Andrea Wilms said in her ruling that Hotz's post was satire that should go unpunished, even if the comments may have been tasteless. She argued that no one would feel called upon to commit acts of violence by such clearly satirical utterances, according to a court statement. The German Journalists' Association earlier this week criticized the trial as excessive and said that the case should be closed, arguing that satirical freedom should be interpreted generously. It noted that public broadcaster RBB already terminated its work with Hotz as a result of the post. Two ships have collided in the German North Sea port of Cuxhaven, spilling an estimated 6,000 litres of oil into the water, the Maritime Emergency Command said. No injuries were reported among the crew members. Emergency personnel from the Federal Agency for Technical Relief and the fire department set up oil booms to contain the spill. The 69-meter-long tanker Capella collided on Wednesday morning with the 44-meter offshore supply vessel Coastal Legend. The offshore vessel was damaged in the incident, leading to the leak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is still unclear how the accident happened. "We currently estimate that there is 6,000 litres of oil," said a spokeswoman for the Cuxhaven Central Command. "There has been more oil in the port before. But every drop of oil we have in the water is too much." German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has said that Kyiv must demonstrate consistency in its fight against corruption, and that restricting the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NAB) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) complicates Ukraine's European integration path. Source: European Pravda with reference to Bild and the statement of the German Foreign Ministry on X (Twitter) Details: Wadephul warned that Ukraine must properly fight corruption as it seeks membership in the European Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Limiting the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption agency hampers Ukraines way towards the EU. I expect Ukraine to continue with determination its efforts in combating corruption," the German minister said. That is why Wadephul met with the heads of NABU and SAPO during his recent visit to Kyiv. As Bild notes, the minister spoke on the phone with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, on Wednesday morning and urged him to keep up the consistency of Ukraines fight against corruption in the country. Background: The Dutch foreign minister said that the independence of anti-corruption bodies is a key condition for Ukraine's movement towards the EU, while the Swedish Foreign Ministry noted that the new law "raises serious concerns about the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The German government has cleared the way for the export of Eurofighter jets to Turkey, spokesman Stefan Kornelius said on Wednesday. "I can confirm that the German government has approved a preliminary request from industry," Kornelius said in Berlin. Earlier on Wednesday, Turkey signed a letter of intent with the United Kingdom on the export of Eurofighter jets to Ankara. Turkey plans to purchase 40 of the British-assembled fighter jets. Germany, which is part of the multinational Eurofighter consortium, must authorize any exports. A Yezidi family of six, including four minors, was deported from Germany to Iraq despite a court upholding their urgent appeal against their removal from the country just hours later, local authorities said on Wednesday. The family left Germany on a deportation flight from the eastern city of Leipzig, which carried a total of 43 people to Baghdad on Tuesday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry in the state of Brandenburg said. The flight took of at 10:52 am (0852 GMT), according to the FlightRadar website, meaning the family had already left German soil when an administrative court in Potsdam, the Brandenburg state capital just outside Berlin, granted their urgent petition against the deportation at 3:30 pm, according to a spokesman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family of six had been living in the German town of Lychen, some 80 kilometres north of Berlin, since 2022, according to local broadcaster RBB. In 2023, they took legal action against their pending deportation after their application for international protection was rejected. After their initial challenge was rejected by the Potsdam court, meaning the family was obliged to leave the country, they lodged an emergency appeal with the court on Tuesday morning to challenge the 2023 decision. But by the time the court lifted the previous ruling - citing new circumstances which had sparked doubts that the decision by Germany's Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) to reject the family's application for protection was lawful - the family had already been deported. A Yezidi family of six, including four minors, was deported from Germany to Iraq despite a court upholding their urgent appeal against their removal from the country just hours later, local authorities said on Wednesday. The family left Germany on a deportation flight from the eastern city of Leipzig, which carried a total of 43 people to Baghdad on Tuesday, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry in the state of Brandenburg said. The flight took of at 10:52 am (0852 GMT), according to the FlightRadar website, meaning the family had already left German soil when an administrative court in Potsdam, the Brandenburg state capital just outside Berlin, granted their urgent petition against the deportation at 3:30 pm, according to a spokesman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Germany recognized the atrocities committed by Islamic State against the Yezidi communities across Iraq and Syria in 2014 as genocide. Tens of thousands of Yezidis were killed, trafficked, raped and abused by the militia, which aimed to eliminate the religious group indigenous to parts of Iraq, Syria, Turkey and Iran. The family of six had been living in the German town of Lychen, some 80 kilometres north of Berlin, since 2022, according to local broadcaster RBB. In 2023, they took legal action against their pending deportation after their application for international protection was rejected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After their initial challenge was rejected by the Potsdam court, meaning the family was obliged to leave the country, they lodged an emergency appeal with the court on Tuesday morning to challenge the 2023 decision. But by the time the court lifted the previous ruling - citing new circumstances which had sparked doubts that the decision by Germany's Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) to reject the family's application for protection was lawful - the family had already been deported. Germany's Green Party called for the family to be brought back immediately. "Germany must bring the Yezidi family back immediately so that we are not complicit in genocide," Max Lucks, spokesman for human rights policy in the Green parliamentary group, told news magazine Focus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lucks also demanded the resignation of the BAMF president, accusing the authority of breaking the law by authorizing deportations such as Tuesday's flight. Following decades of conflict and political unrest, the security situation in Iraq remains tense. Last week marked the end of a court case that has been a constant companion of the German debate over drones for more than a decade. The case went out with not a bang, but a whimper: On July 15, Germanys Federal Constitutional Court dismissed a lawsuit brought by two Yemeni citizens over a U.S. drone strike in 2012 that killed two of their relatives. The attack took place in Yemen, but the plaintiffs sued the Federal Republic of Germany because it was routed through Ramstein Air Base, a U.S. military base in southwest Germany. At first glance that may seem like tenuous grounds for such a suit, but on closer inspection its less of a stretch: Without Ramstein, U.S. drones cannot fly in the Middle East and beyond. U.S. drone operators usually operate their droneswhether they fly in Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen or elsewherefrom the U.S., mainly Creech Air Force Base, 40 miles outside of Las Vegas. But in order to establish the link to the drones, the signals are sent through trans-Atlantic fiber optic cables to Germany, from where they are sent up to a satellite, and from the satellite to the drone. It turns out that Ramsteinwhich sits not far from Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, the largest U.S. military hospital outside the continental U.S.is a good reminder to the U.S. public that many U.S. military installations in Europe dont only protect Europe. The Yemeni plaintiffs, who also filed a lawsuit against the U.S. that had been rejected in 2017, argued that Germany had a duty of protection with regard to the deployment of armed drones in Yemen by the U.S., since the U.S. military depended on the technical facilities located in Germany to operate them. They wanted the court to oblige Germany to prevent the U.S. from doing so in the future. The case made its way through the German legal system for years before it was finally rejected by the highest court last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For any analyst working on drones in Germany, the trial became a permanent feature of the landscape, one that at times receded to the background only to reappear whenever it moved up to the next court of appeals. Especially in the beginning, it was instrumental in making available information on how uniquely central Ramstein had been to U.S. drone operations in its forever wars. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. Today, Ramsteins salience has diminished, as U.S. drone operations in places such as Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia have substantially decreased in number, though operations such as the recent campaign against the Houthis might reverse that trend. But in many ways, the case was emblematic of the German debate over drones more broadlybecause it focused not on Germany, but on the United States. Despite the fact that the German armed forces have been using drones since the 1970s, much of the German debate over drone use has focused on the United States. In the past few decades, few military topics have gotten more attention in Germany than drones. But despite the fact that the German armed forces have been using drones since the 1970s, much of the German debate over drone use has focused on the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bundeswehr, as the German armed forces are known, was an early adopter of drone technology, acquiring its first surveillance drones in 1972. When the Cold War ended, however, most German drone plans became victims of the peace dividend. Germanys participation in the NATO mission in Afghanistan beginning in January 2002 revived the German militarys interest in drones. Initially, the Bundeswehr did not deploy any drones to Afghanistan because it barely had any. Eventually, however, it acquired five different drone systems and used them extensively. But despite their importance in Afghanistan, drones received rather little attention in Germany. They only became a topic of media coverage in the early 2010s, when the U.S. militarys use of drones for targeted killings attracted international attention. Thus, from the beginning, the German drone debate was influenced by how the U.S. used its drones. Even the Bundestagthe German parliamentseemed more interested in U.S. drone use than its own countrys systems: Of the 102 times drones were mentioned in the Bundestag between 2006 and 2014, whether in the form of minor interjections, written questions or debates, almost half were not about German drone use or procurement, but rather about U.S. drone use. As a result, in the German publics perception as well as in Germanys political debate, drones were equated with targeted killings that were considered illegal by many legal experts. That association meant that it was almost impossible to have a sensible discussion about acquiring armed drones for the Bundeswehr, a plan that was first proposed by the then-German defense minister in 2012. This slowed things down so significantly that it was only in April 2022, after a decade of debates, that the German parliament finally decided to do so. Recently, however, things have begun to change. The winding down of the U.S. forever wars, and with them extensive drone use, has allowed Germany to move on from its fixation on the United States. It is also possible that Germany may eventually become less important to the U.S. militarys drone use altogether: With the increase in satellite capabilities through Starlinks mega-constellation, it may no longer be necessary to send links through underwater cables to Ramstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most importantly, the war in Ukraine and the crucial importance drones play in the conflict there has focused European attention. In November 2023, the German Defense Ministry created a drone task force, which published its results last June. Acquisitions of drones and counter-drone systems are now planned and will be sped up. Thus, as the Ramstein court case comes to an end, a decade of unhelpful German focus on U.S. drone use also seems to be drawing to a close. With any luck, that will open up space for more strategic thinking about what is needed for German defense. Ulrike Franke is a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, based in Paris. She focuses on German and European security and defense, the future of warfare and the impact of new technologies such as drones and artificial intelligence. Her bi-weekly WPR column appears every other Wednesday. The post Germany Is Finally Getting Over Its Taboo on Armed Drones appeared first on World Politics Review. BERLIN (Reuters) -The German government has cleared the way for the delivery of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Turkey following a positive decision by the federal security council, the Spiegel news magazine reported on Wednesday. Turkey has been in talks on buying Eurofighter Typhoon jets, which are built by a consortium of Germany, Britain, Italy and Spain, represented by companies Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo. Germany's federal security council, whose approval is required for arms exports, operates behind closed doors and the government generally does not comment on its decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The German defence ministry declined to comment on the report. The economy ministry did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Earlier this week, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Germany and Britain took a positive stance on the sale of the jets, adding that Ankara wanted to finalise the purchase as soon as possible. (Reporting by Rachel More; Editing by Tom Hogue and Matthias Williams) Jul. 231/9 Swipe or click to see more Backpacks with school supplies were given out at a community event hosted on Thursday by Mahajan Therapeutics at South Point Park. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 2/9 Swipe or click to see more Children get their faces painted at a community event hosted on Thursday by Mahajan Therapeutics at South Point Park. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 3/9 Swipe or click to see more Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Free food was served at a community event hosted on Thursday by Mahajan Therapeutics at South Point Park. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 4/9 Swipe or click to see more Mahajan Therapeutics hosted a free event at South Point Park for families and the community on Thursday. 5/9 Swipe or click to see more Children get their faces painted at a community event hosted on Thursday by Mahajan Therapeutics at South Point Park. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 6/9 Swipe or click to see more Anne Rucker, treatment center director for Mahajan Therapeutics, speaks at a community event. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 7/9 Swipe or click to see more Mahajan Therapeutics hosted a free event at South Point Park for families and the community on Thursday. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 8/9 Swipe or click to see more Free haircuts were offered at the event. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) 9/9 Swipe or click to see more Children get their faces painted at a community event hosted on Thursday by Mahajan Therapeutics at South Point Park. (The Ironton Tribune Heath Harrison) Back-to-school event held at South Point park SOUTH POINT Dozens of families came on Thursday for a community event at the park in the Village of South Point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event was organized by Mahajan Therapeutics and provided free food, as well as a giveaway of backpacks, filled with school supplies. Trending * Piketon man found guilty of 4 counts of murder in traffic accident * Reds' 3rd baseman Stewart making name for himself A large thunderstorm passed through the area just prior to the start of the event, but it did not deter turnout and the picnic shelter at the park was full of people, in line for the giveaway. In addition, free haircuts were provided to children, while groups such as the Lawrence County Early Childhood Academy had tables set up to provide information on resources available to families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We just wanted to give back to the community," Anne Rucker, treatment specialist with Mahajan Therapeutics, said. She said the company is based locally in Ironton, but offers services in the South Point area. "We visit the local schools," she said. "And we get people from Portsmouth to Chillicothe." Mahajan Therapeutics offers mental health and addiction counseling at multiple locations throughout Ohio. For more information, visit Trending * Facing Hunger Foodbank will have food giveaway in Ironton on Friday * Fair concludes with livestock auction https://mahajantherapeutics.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You Might Like News, Local, Top Home, Politics, Z Newsletter News Candidates begin filing for office News ODOT road report News Farmers' markets around Ohio accept SNAP cards News Taste of Ironton canceled Ghana stands out in west Africa as a nation that has not experienced terrorist attacks, even though its geographically close to countries that have. In Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria, extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have wreaked havoc. This resilience is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate counter-terrorism strategies employed by Ghanas security institutions. Ghanas counter-terrorism framework was set out in 2020. It has four pillars: prevent, pre-empt, protect, and respond. The idea is to coordinate multiple agencies, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Bureau. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These pillars guide strategies to address both immediate threats and underlying vulnerabilities. Poverty, religious radicalism and porous borders are common drivers of terrorism in west Africa. I am an international security and global governance researcher. My co-author is a government and international studies scholar. Four years ago we wrote a paper examining Ghanas resilience against terrorist attacks. Our findings are still relevant given the increasing activities of terror groups in the west African region. Read more: West Africa terror: why attacks on military bases are rising and four ways to respond We wanted to identify what works as a potential model for other countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using a qualitative methodology, we interviewed stakeholders including police officers, members of the armed forces, Muslim community leaders, and immigration officials. We also analysed the national framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism. Our findings showed that Ghanas success is traceable to an approach that integrates community engagement with advanced border technology, inter-agency training, media collaboration and intelligence operations. And it addresses both immediate and underlying threats. We argue that Ghanas ability to balance prevention with security offers solutions for stability in a geopolitically volatile region. Read more: Ghana's new president faces tough regional security problems: why he's well-placed to tackle them Community engagement One of the standout strategies is community engagement. This serves multiple purposes, from guiding people away from extremism to gathering intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ghana Police Service, for instance, engages Muslim-dominated communities, known as Zongos, to counter radical Islamic ideologies that could be exploited by terrorist groups. By collaborating with local religious leaders, police make communities aware of the dangers of radicalisation. They foster trust and encourage residents to report suspicious activities. This approach also works in tackling illegal arms circulation. Ghana has an estimated 2.3 million small arms in circulation 1.1 million of them illegally possessed. The availability of so many weapons fuels terrorist activities across west Africa. Community based de-radicalisation aligns with global best practices. In Norway, for instance, it was used to disengage youth from extremist groups. Technology at borders Ghanas border control management is another part of its counter-terrorism strategy. Ghana Immigration Service uses advanced security software and integrated systems like the Immigration 360 system, designed to fully automate passenger processing and data management. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system manages records of fingerprints and other data to improve reporting and intelligence sharing between Ghana Immigration and other security agencies. The technology makes it possible to quickly identity individuals on terrorist watchlists and detects concealed goods. This helps prevent illegal cross-border movements. There are gaps in Ghanas defences, however. The influx of migrants fleeing extremist violence in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in 2024 highlights the urgency of scaling up investments in the technology. Read more: West Africa could soon have a jihadist state here's why Training for preparedness Ghana combats new and varying forms of terrorism by uncovering trends and training personnel to deal with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A notable example was the six-day joint training in 2022 involving the Ghana Immigration Service, Police Service, Customs, Economic and Organised Crime Office, and the National Intelligence Bureau. The country also works with regional neighbours like Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin, and partners such as the United States, through initiatives like Operation Epic Guardian. Media as a strategic partner Terrorists rely on media to amplify fear and publicise their causes. Ghanas security agencies counter this tactic by actively engaging media houses to report accurately. The Ghana Armed Forces, for instance, works with media to debunk false reports, which can cause public panic and inadvertently aid terrorists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ghana Police Service emphasises regular dialogue with media to ensure sensitive information is verified before publication, reducing the risk of tipping off suspects. However, media competition for viewers poses a challenge. Surveillance and intelligence gathering Surveillance and intelligence gathering is critical. Plainclothes armed forces and immigration personnel blend into communities to monitor potential threats. The approach has worked but is constrained by resources. It can also risk human rights violations, such as wrongful profiling, and is less effective against multiple targets compared to technological solutions like facial recognition or CCTV. Read more: Funding terror: how west Africa's deadly jihadists get the money they need to survive Challenges and regional implications Despite its successes, Ghanas counter-terrorism framework faces challenges that could undermine its long-term efficacy: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement logistical and financial constraints the influx of migrants fleeing regional violence a lack of harmonised security cultures within the regional body, Ecowas. In all, Ghanas strategies offer lessons for west Africa, where terrorism is a growing threat. Its community engagement model could be followed in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to counter radicalisation and arms proliferation, provided it avoids religious stereotyping. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Paa Kwesi Wolseley Prah, Dublin City University and Timothy Chanimbe, Hong Kong Baptist University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Ian Maxwell, the brother of Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins charged co-conspirator, said he was grateful for the positive statement President Trump made about his sister in 2020. He was asked on Piers Morgan Uncensored if Ghislaine Maxwell, who was arrested on sex trafficking charges in 2020 and eventually convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison, pulled the wool over your eyes related to her involvement in Epsteins alleged crimes. No, I believe my sister. Ive known her 60 years, Piers. You know, Im not going to suddenly say she started pulling the wool. I dont think so, he told host Piers Morgan on Tuesday. I dont believe so. Not for a second. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ian Maxwell also said Trump showed humanity after offering the positive statement about his sister. And I dont think that anyone else showed the slightest piece of humanity. Not anybody at that time, and yet he did. He didnt need to. Hes the president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world, Maxwell said Tuesday. He couldve just sloughed it off. He didnt. He made a positive statement. I am very grateful to that, and I know Ghislaine was too. Trump was asked during a July 2020 press briefing about whether the embattled socialite, awaiting trial at the time, was going to turn in powerful men. I havent really been following it too much. I just wish her well, frankly. Ive met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach. And I guess they lived in Palm Beach. But I wish her well, Trump said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration is working to tamp down the controversy around the Epstein case, particularly after the FBI and the Justice Department (DOJ) said in a joint, unsigned memo this month that the disgraced financier did not keep a client list and confirming he died by suicide in his jail cell in 2019. The DOJ, after being ordered by Trump, asked a federal court last week to unseal grand jury testimony from prosecutions of both Epstein and Maxwell. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche communicated with Maxwells attorney to figure out if she would be willing to talk to DOJ prosecutors. A House Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee also moved to subpoena Maxwell on Tuesday as pressure for more transparency from the Trump administration intensifies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ian Maxwell, the brother of jailed Jeffrey Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, has thanked President Donald Trump for making a positive statement about his sister in 2020 and showing her humanity. Appearing on Piers Morgan Uncensored on Tuesday to discuss the revived furore over Epstein after Trumps Justice Department said that no client list belonging to the late billionaire pedophile existed, Ian Maxwell once more defended Ghislaine, who was jailed in 2022 for her role in the disgraced financiers sex trafficking operation. Asked by Morgan whether she had pulled the wool over your eyes regarding her involvement in Epsteins crimes, Maxwell responded: No, I believe my sister. Ian Maxwell appears on Piers Morgan Uncensored on Tuesday July 22 2025 (Piers Morgan Uncensored) Ive known her [for] 60 years, Piers. You know, Im not going to suddenly say she started pulling the wool. I dont think so. I dont believe so. Not for a second. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pivoting to Trump, Maxwell said: President Trump was asked the only time, I believe, in public at the tail end of his presidency, so, you know, November, December 2021 [sic] about Ghislaine and he said, You know, I dont know much about it, but I wish her well. And I dont think that anyone else showed the slightest piece of humanity, not anybody at that time, and yet he did. He didnt need to. Hes the president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world. He couldve just sloughed it off. He didnt. He made a positive statement. I am very grateful to that and I know Ghislaine was too. The comment Maxwell referred to was actually made by Trump in July 2020 when Ghislaine was arrested and charged with sex trafficking. I havent really been following it too much, the president said at the time. I just wish her well, frankly. Ive met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach. And I guess they lived in Palm Beach. But I wish her well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about it a month later by then-Axios reporter Jonathan Swan, Trump doubled down and said: I wish her well, Id wish you well, Id wish a lot of people well. Good luck. Let them prove somebody was guilty. Her boyfriend died in jail and people are still trying to figure out how did it happen? Was it suicide? Was he killed? And I do wish her well. Im not looking for anything bad for her. Im not looking bad for anybody. The president remains under pressure to explain his past friendship with Epstein after the Justice Departments attempt to draw a line under the case sparked an angry backlash from his own supporters, with many pointing to Attorney General Pam Bondis declaration earlier this year that his case file was sitting on my desk waiting to be reviewed as suggesting its release was imminent. Mug shot of Ghislaine Maxwell taken at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York City (Federal Bureau of Prisons) Archive photos and video indicate that Trump and Epstein knew each other socially in New York and Florida from the 1980s to the early 2000s, and the president is on record as praising the abuser as a terrific guy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, he has since distanced himself and is currently suing The Wall Street Journal for alleging that he once sent him a lewd hand-drawn birthday card. The president has tried hard to change the narrative over the last two weeks, attacking numerous old foes on social media in scattergun fashion, rebuking his own past supporters for dwelling on the subject, and complaining to the press at a recent cabinet meeting: Are you still talking about Jeffrey Epstein? This guy's been talked about for years. Are people still talking about this guy, this creep? Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced on Tuesday that, at the direction of AG Bondi, he had contacted Ghislaines legal counsel about arranging an interview with her and declared: No one is above the law and no lead is off-limits. Trump signaled his approval of that step in the Oval Office shortly afterwards, saying it sounded appropriate. Meanwhile, a panel of judges has ruled that more information is needed before they can rule on the release of grand jury testimony related to Epstein, and House Speaker Mike Johnson has declined to hold a House vote on whether to order the release of all federal files on him until after Congresss summer recess. Giora Epstein: nicknamed Hawkeye because he could spot enemy aircraft at 24 miles, nearly three times farther than a typical pilot Giora Epstein, who has died aged 87, was an Israeli Air Force pilot who could claim to be the top fighter ace of the supersonic age. He shot down a total of 17 enemy aircraft 16 Egyptian jets and one Egyptian Mi-8 helicopter. His 16 victories over Egyptian jets place him third on the all-time list for jet-to-jet combat, behind two Soviet pilots in the Korean war; Epstein holds the top international rank for victories against supersonic fighters. On June 5 1967, Israel launched what would later be called the Six-Day War, beginning with Operation Moked (Operation Focus), a pre-emptive air strike against Egypt in which Epstein, flying the French-built Dassault Mirage III, took part. The Israelis destroyed most of the Egyptian air force, mainly on the ground, within three hours. Some Egyptian aircraft survived, and on the second day of the war, Epstein claimed his first kill by shooting down an Egyptian Sukhoi-7 in the Sinai. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after the Six-Day War, Gamal Abdel Nasser, Egypts president, began a war of attrition in which the Israeli Air Force (IAF) played a leading role in bombing targets deep inside Egypt. In this conflict, Epstein shot down four additional aircraft: a MIG-17, a Sukhoi-7 and two MiG-21s. Two of his kills occurred when Epstein lured a squadron of four Egyptian MiGs into a carefully prepared ambush. These victories increased Epsteins total tally to five, earning him the title of aceace, a designation given to pilots who have brought down at least five enemy aircraft. It was during the October 1973 Yom Kippur War that Epstein cemented his reputation as a cool and brilliant pilot: in one dogfight, facing 20 Egyptian fighter jets, he shot down four aircraft in a single sortie before returning to base to refuel. In this war, Epstein downed 12 Egyptian aircraft overall. In eight of his 17 aerial victories, Epstein flew a Mirage III. In his other nine, he flew an Israel Aircraft Industries Nesher (Eagle), an Israeli-built version of the Mirage 5. Five of his kills were achieved using air-to-air missiles, the rest with cannons. A Mirage III in 1971 - Rolls Press/Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images He was born Giora Epstein, a name he later changed to Giora Even (stone in Hebrew), on May 20 1938. His parents, Hillel and Chaya, emigrated from Poland in the early 1930s and settled in Kibbutz Negba, in British Mandatory Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Young Giora became passionate about aviation after watching RAF manoeuvres over his kibbutz in southern Palestine. He eagerly read books about air battles and the biographies of pilots. While in school, he joined Gadna (Youth Battalions), an organisation that prepared young Israelis for military service. In 1956, Epstein joined the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), but was disappointed when he was rejected from the (IAFs pilot- training course due to his enlarged heart and low pulse. Instead, he became a paratrooper. In 1959, Epstein was discharged and returned to agricultural work on the kibbutz, but re-enlisted three years later as a parachuting instructor. He reapplied to the IAFs flight school and was accepted after gaining medical clearance. In 1963, Epstein graduated and was assigned to fly helicopters in the IAFs 124 Squadron. But he refused to fly, and instead walked into the office of the Air Force Commander, General Ezer Weizman, declaring: Im going to sit here at your reception until you transfer me to a fighting unit. Weizman replied: OK, you bastard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein was nicknamed Hawkeye because he could spot enemy aircraft from a distance of 24 miles, nearly three times further than a typical pilot. His shorter stature also helped him withstand G-forces during flight. After the Yom Kippur War, Epstein was awarded the Medal of Distinguished Service. In 1974 he was appointed commander of the IAFs 117 Squadron, and three years later, he retired from active service, having amassed 5,000 flight hours. Epstein, right, on his promotion to brigadier general in 2018 He continued to serve as a combat pilot in the reserves, and in 1988 he obtained special permission to transfer to the F-16. But to an old hand like Epstein, the computer-controlled aircraft lacked the pleasure of piloting a Mirage. You are not flying the F-16, he explained. The F-16 flies itself you, as a pilot, are just another input As a pilot, I like to feel the aircraft. In a Mirage, every flight is a joy. After retiring, Epstein worked as a commercial pilot for El Al, Israels national airline, until 2003. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2018, he was promoted to brigadier-general in recognition of his contribution to Israels security. Epstein was the primary focus of the Desert Aces episode of the History Channel series Dogfighters (2007). In 2020 he published a memoir, Hawkeye. He was married to Sarah, who served as an operations officer in his squadron. They had three children. Giora Epstein-Even, born May 20 1938, died July 19 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. DEMAREST, N.J. (PIX11) A girl was airlifted to a local New Jersey hospital after being hit by a bus Wednesday morning, according to detectives. Demarest police officers responded to the intersection of Anderson Avenue and County Road for a reported accident involving a bus and a pedestrian, Bergen County Deputy Chief of Detectives Jeff Angermeyer said. More Local News The juvenile hit, a 14-year-old girl, sustained serious injuries and needed a medevac helicopter to take her to a local hospital, authorities said. The driver of the First Student, Inc. bus remained on the scene and cooperated with investigating departments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Angermeyer said the preliminary investigation suggests no criminality in the incident. The bus company is conducting an internal investigation of the incident, a spokesperson told PIX11 News. The driver was removed from service, according to the spokesperson. Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. 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. GLASTONBURY, Conn. (WTNH) Police say the 55-year-old missing Glastonbury woman has been found. Dementia experts warn of wandering during extreme heat With the assistance of state police and K9 teams, the woman was found in a wooded area around 1.5 miles from her residence, police said. She was taken to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries, according to police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Earlier this year, City Pulse founder Berl Schwartz wrote that the publication was for sale. This week, that sale was finalized and announced. City Pulse has been a staple of local journalism for more than two decades. Prior to City Pulse, Schwartz was the general manager and advisor at The State News, the independent student newspaper at Michigan State University. He has worked at various publications, including The Knoxville in Tennessee, The Louisville Times, and Scripps Howard News Service. He received a degree in political science from the University of Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City Pulse was sold to Michigan Independent Media Group (MIMG). It is the second publication the group has acquired. I think the fact that independent is in their name kind of sums it up, Schwartz told 6 News. They definitely are not worried about quarterly dividends. Schwartz said he was looking for the right buyer and believes MIMG is it. I am convinced that they are very serious when they say their goal is to preserve and grow local journalism, he said. For that reason, I went with them. Over the next three months, Schwartz will remain as editor and publisher, per an agreement in the sale. Schwartz says City Pulse may be able to increase staff and expand to different markets across Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked what made City Pulse last for so long, he said its the papers ability to stay extremely local. Were incessantly local, he said. Theres very little in the paper that doesnt relate directly to whats going on in Greater Lansing. Viewers can see the full interview 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 WLNS 6 News. Digital technology may have led to the decline of hand-drawn animation, but it still required legions of creatives and technicians to feed into the process. Now some fear that artificial intelligence (AI) could push the human touch further still out of the equation. But in Africa, animation professionals see AI as a means to unlock new creative possibilities, while getting their projects off the ground with greater ease. Stuart Forrest, CEO of BAFTA and Emmy-winning Triggerfish Animation Studio, which has its headquarters in South Africa, is one of them. Africa has quite a unique position globally, he told CNN. Of the 1.4 billion people that live on the continent, theres such a tiny amount that are actually active in the animation industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given the limited number of professional animators, Forrest believes that by integrating AI, some creatives will have a route to realize their projects for the first time thats really exciting for the continent. Ebele Okoye, an award-winning Nigerian filmmaker affectionately known as the Mother of African animation, also sees plenty of upsides. We now have the opportunity to tell our stories without having to wait for somebody to give us $20 million, she told CNN during the Cannes Film Festival in May, where she hosted a masterclass on AI in animation at the Pavilion Afriques. A still from "Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire," a series produced by Triggerfish Animation Studios that debuted on Disney+ in 2023. The series did not use AI as part of its production, but Triggerfish CEO believes the technology has the potential to help animators in Africa. - The Walt Disney Company Africas animation sector was valued at $13.3 billion in one 2023 report but historically, there has been a lack of funding for African animated projects, said Forrest. Theres a general rule that African stories dont generate income. But the African stories that are made are such low budget that, yes, they dont generate income. So its a self-fulfilling thing, he explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon, he projects, a feature film that might have cost $10-20 million to make, may cost $50,000 with AI, and require just two or three creatives. Youre going to see this flood of new stories that have never been heard before, from countries that no one would ever invest (in), he added. Eventually the playing field between Hollywood and Kinshasa (in the Democratic Republic of Congo) will be levelled in terms of the quality of storytelling. Is AI coming for your job? There are many outstanding questions. For one: What might AI do to the jobs market? Opinions differ. Youre going to empower people working for you, Okoye said. Youre not going to replace them; youre going to make their jobs easier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But thats assuming you have a job in the first place. AI is already taking on many mundane, repetitive tasks tasks that might be done by entry level staff and trainees. If those jobs then become obsolete, at some point this makes the industry a bit elitist you dont have the same entry window that you do now, argued Masilakhe Njomane, a junior research fellow at the South African Cultural Observatory and co-author of a recent report on AIs impact on South Africas creative industries. In an economy like South Africa its detrimental, as we already have a lot of trouble with job security as a whole, especially in the creative and cultural industry, she added. A still from "The Legacy of Rubies" (2015), an award-winning short film by Ebele Okoye. The film did not use AI in its production. - courtesy Ebele Okoye While Triggerfish has not used AI-generated art, Forrest said, employees have used GitHub Copilot, an AI-powered coding assistant, to help them generate code for the past couple of years, noticeably speeding up their output. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He conceded AI initially might eliminate some roles, but it will enable other roles. On the other hand, Njomane pointed to AI creating opportunities for independent studios to play a bigger role in content creation. The ethical and legal debate Aside from the impact on jobs, most reservations with integrating AI particularly generative AI in the creative industries involve ethics and the law. There is an ongoing murkiness surrounding where and how some AI companies acquire the datasets used to train algorithms which generate imagery. AI companies have been hit with dozens of lawsuits, largely based on copyright infringement. Just last month, Midjourney was sued by Disney and Universal, who alleged the generative AI company trained its model on their intellectual property, and generated images in violation of copyright law. In July, the European Union proposed new rules that would force companies to make publicly available summaries of the content used to train their algorithms. In January the US Copyright Office concluded that the output of generative AI could be copyright protected, but only when a human had contributed sufficient expressive elements and that inputting prompts alone did not meet the criteria. The African Union is a few paces behind forming concrete policy, but the issue featured prominently its 2024 AI strategy report. Triggerfish Animation Studios produced "Aau's Song," the final episode of volume two of Disney+ series "Star Wars: Visions." The short, which did not employ AI in its production, is infused with imagery harking back to South Africa, where Triggerfish has its headquarters. - Lucasfilm A creative with no copyright on their work has few routes to make money from it. Okoye believes, for this reason and more, African animators should avoid web browser-based generative AIs and instead use AI in a localized workflow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Okoye uses software ComfyUI, into which she has fed drawings of her characters in different poses. You can train an AI model based on your character, so that the moment you connect this model to your local workflow, you say exactly what you want your character to do and its doing it, she explained. You just get back what you gave it and its your IP (intellectual property). Forrest says Triggerfish is looking to develop an ethical AI-assisted pipeline, though he can still find some sympathy for algorithms. If we have to brutally honest with ourselves, we were inspired by Disney, Pixar, he said. I think art is always assimilating I mean, Raphael was assimilating Michelangelo and Leonardo. Its always been about looking at what people are doing and saying, How can I being my perspective to this? Its acceptable if humans do it. But the question is how acceptable is it when its done by machines? Ultimately, I think the controversy will wear off. Busting bias Having creative control over your data inputs could have other benefits: namely, helping eliminate bias. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Racial bias in AIs is well documented, from facial recognition technology recording much higher error rates among dark-skinned people than light-skinned, to large language models perpetuating negative stereotypes against speakers of African American English. Such techno-racism extends into generative AI: artist Stephanie Dinkins even produced an exhibition out of AIs inability to accurately depict Black women. Okoye says in the past, some AIs have generated either generic or inaccurate imagery when prompted to create African characters. The only solution is to go local, create your characters, train your own model, she reiterated. As for why AIs fall short, Forrest said that there is so little existing African content especially in animation that there is a lot less for (an AI) to understand. Njomane pointed to AIs performing better in English and other Western languages, adding many often generate generic imagery of Africa. Its not being programmed with (Africans) in mind or even consulting them at all. And thats a huge problem. A still from "Anna Blume" (2010), a short film by Ebele Okoye visualizing "An Anna Blume (T"o Eve Blossom"), a 1919 poem by German Dadaist Kurt Schwitters. The project did not involve the use of AI. - courtesy Ebele Okoye Okoye outlined a dream scenario in which development funds or angel investors back studios to create diverse African characters and culturally specific assets to train an AI model. That would generate a library of accurate, free-to-access imagery, which can serve as a foundation for animators to build on in a way that allows them to assert their copyright. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid a boom in African animation, animators will need all the tools they can get, as studios look to replicate the success of series like Iwaju and Iyanu Nigerian projects streaming on Disney+ and HBO Max respectively, signposting growing international appetite for Afro-centric storytelling. Despite the ongoing ethical kinks, Okoye remains optimistic. But as someone who once worked as a typesetter alongside colleagues worried for their careers with the arrival of the personal computer, she also understands peoples concerns. Coming from (being) a typesetter to somebody whos training AI models how beautiful, she said. What a great time to be alive. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Although ABC News' Deborah Roberts, a native of Perry, Ga., never made it to the last level of being a Girl Scoutan "ambassador"she still feels a connection to the historic organization. I grew up in a family full of girls, I had six sisters and most of us were Girl Scouts, so I feel like it was sort of a family tradition and an opportunity to connect with other girls in the community, Roberts said in a phone interview. It just felt like something that was special and unique, and it felt like it gave us empowerment before we knew the word. It was something that we felt. Now Roberts is headed to Savannah, where Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts in 1912. She will serve as a different kind of ambassador, exploring Low's legacy of female empowerment before women even had the right to vote as part of Good Morning America's "50 States in 50 Weeks: America the Beautiful series." She will be filming in Savannah along the historic riverfront on Friday, July 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although she has returned to Georgia and traveled to Athens and Atlanta, she said she hasn't spent much time in the Hostess City of the South. As someone who is very connected to her home state, Roberts mentioned that it was special to sing the state's praises and connect with a different part of her old stomping grounds. The 50 States in 50 Weeks series, which was launched in celebration of GMAs golden anniversary, began this month, and is leading up the nation's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. Each week, a GMA correspondent will visit a different state in the order that it joined the union, highlighting its history, unique culture and landmarks. I think more than anything else, the idea is just reminding us as a country, just how beautifully diverse, special and unique the United States is, Roberts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the 13th colony, Georgia was the fourth state to join the union. The state and Savannah, in particular, were instrumental in the American Revolution, but GMA will explore a different kind of revolutionary in Low, who "blazed trails and redefined whats possible for girls everywhere." During the trip, GMA will explore Low's birthplace and childhood home, which is now a house museum with interactive exhibits about the history and mission of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Roberts will meet with local troops, learn modern-day Girl Scout skills and, maybe, finally get that elusive pin. "Were so excited to host Good Morning America at the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace," said the birthplace's Executive Director Shannon Browning-Mullis. "The Girl Scout Movement changed the American experience for millions of girls. This is where it all began, and were thrilled to share our story." Roberts mentioned she was excited for the chance to explore not only the heritage of the Girl Scouts, but other historical places in Savannah such as the First African Baptist Church on Franklin Square, which was instrumental in the Underground Railroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Destini Ambus is the general assignment reporter for the Savannah Morning News, covering the municipalities, and community and cultural programs. You can reach her at DAmbus@gannett.com This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: GMA filing in Savannah this week for series, exploring Girl Scouts WASHINGTON (AP) Michigan Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga was ready to launch a U.S. Senate bid. All he needed was President Donald Trump s blessing. But in a White House meeting last week, the president encouraged Huizenga to run for reelection rather than challenge former Rep. Mike Rogers for Senate in the battleground state, hoping to keep his west Michigan seat secure, according to three people with direct knowledge of the conversation. On Wednesday, Huizenga announced he was skipping the Senate race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After careful consideration ... as well as in consultation with President Donald Trump, I have decided against a bid for U.S. Senate in Michigan, he said in a statement. It's the latest example of Trump's increasingly heavy-handed efforts to keep incumbent House members in their seats and keep those seats in GOP hands as he and his political team try to avoid what happened in his first term, when Republicans lost the chamber after just two years. From Michigan to New York to Iowa, Trump has actively worked to reshape Republican primary fields, demonstrating the enormous influence he wields over a party that, by and large, answers to him. Trump puts his thumb on the scale for the 2026 midterms In Iowa, Rep. Zach Nunn had been weighing a run for governor until his own conversation with Trump, after which he opted to seek reelection to a seat that national Republicans feel would have been more competitive without an incumbent on the ballot. Trump offered a full-throated endorsement of Nunns reelection after he said he spoke with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And on Wednesday, New York Rep. Mike Lawler announced he would defend his pivotal swing seat rather than launch a gubernatorial bid after a private meeting with Trump last week. He obviously encouraged me to run for reelection to the House, Lawler said about his conversation with Trump. Thats where his focus is. The efforts are the latest demonstration of Trump and his political operations intense focus on keeping control of the House next year. The party in power historically loses seats in midterm elections. But Trump, according to people familiar with his thinking, is determined to avoid a repeat of 2018, when Democrats took over the House and proceeded to block his legislative agenda and then impeach him twice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is hoping he can buck history and maintain maximum power for the next three-and-a-half years, despite his lame duck status. To that end, he and his team have worked to dissuade incumbents in potentially vulnerable seats from stepping down to pursue runs for the Senate or governor, delivering the message that they are all on the same team and that it is in the party's best interest to keep control of the chamber. We have a tight margin. These competitive districts are going to be determinative of the outcome, said Lawler. Of course, the president has a focus on wanting to keep these seats and avoid unnecessary primaries. Trump still wields power over GOP members Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's success in dissuading members from pursuing what are effectively promotions is yet another demonstration of the enormous power he wields over members, many of whom have made clear that they will not run unless they have the president's blessing. At the same time, hes shown a willingness to greenlight bids from members in safer seats. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, who represents a deep red district, continues to move toward a potential run for governor. Trump also signaled support for a Senate bid by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia, though she ultimately decided against it. Republican House candidates this year are generally trying to run in lockstep with the president a reflection of his sky-high popularity with Republican voters and his success last November in drawing new voters to the party. Republicans are eager to replicate that model after struggling in the past to turn out Trump's supporters when the president isnt on the ballot. Democrats, meanwhile, have tried to cast the moves as a sign that Republicans are nervous about 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They know their prospects for reelection are grim. They have been ordered by Donald Trump to seek reelection. In other words, Donald has signed their political death sentence, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters Wednesday. They chose to bend the knee. Huizenga steps aside Huizenga, for months, had been contemplating challenging Rogers in the Republican primary, waiting for a more formal discussion with Trump about the race, although they had spoken on the phone multiple times. Some Republicans in the state felt that Rogers should be challenged, since he lost last year even as Trump won by nearly 80,000 votes. Rogers has hired a number of Trump's staffers, including his former campaign co-manager, Chris LaCivita. While the emphasis from the White House was on keeping the House seat which Huizenga won by just under 12 percentage points he has not yet made a final decision on reelection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every two years, Bill sits down with his wife to discuss what is best for their family, Brian Patrick, Huizenga's spokesperson, said in a statement. This election cycle is no different. Lawler said that while Trump shared his desire for the congressman to stay in the House, I didnt get here by doing as told. Its something that Ive thought extensively about and went through a very unemotional process and a more data driven process than anything, said Lawler. Not everyone has abided by Trump's wishes. Rep. John James of Michigan is running for governor in a crowded GOP field, leaving open a competitive House seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He's running for governor but I'm not sure I'm too happy about that, John, said Trump during an event in June, with James in the audience. Do we have somebody good to take your seat? 'Cause otherwise we're not letting him run for governor, Trump said with a laugh. James' spokesperson, Hannah Osantowske, said in a statement that James has earned the President's endorsement in every race and is committed to earning it again. He's a proven winner, and President Trump backs winners who've stood by him, Osantowske said. Trump has leveraged other power over Republicans Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond discouraging members from running, Trump is flexing his power in other ways. In Texas, he has pushed Republicans to try to redraw House district maps to help protect Republicans slim majority next year. He wants Republicans to carve out as many as five more winnable congressional districts a high-risk, high-reward maneuver that could energize Democratic voters. The intense involvement in House races stands in contrast to the Senate, where Trump, until now, has generally avoided wading into contentious and open primaries in crucial battleground states like North Carolina and Georgia, as well as in Texas. In the Lone Star State, a longtime ally, Ken Paxton, is challenging incumbent Sen. John Cornyn, to the dismay of many national Republicans who fear Paxton would be toxic in a general election. Even in Michigan, where Rogers is now expected to be the lone high-profile Republican in the open race, Trump has yet to endorse. The contrast, allies say, reflects the more disciplined approach his political operation is taking compared to years past. That includes subjecting candidates Trump may endorse to a careful vetting process that includes an assessment of their teams and fundraising capacity. ___ Colvin reported from New York. Ibex Investment Holdings, previously known as Steinhoff International, has sold its entire 28% stake in South African clothing retailer Pepkor Holdings. The transaction involves the offering of 1.05 billion Pepkor shares, valued at R26.6bn ($1.5bn), as reported by Bloomberg. Goldman Sachs Group, JPMorgan Chase & Co and Investec oversaw the management of the share sale. Ibex is proceeding with the restructuring of Steinhoff by selling off parts of the company following its collapse due to an accounting scandal in 2017. An investigation by Pricewaterhouse Coopers revealed irregular transactions amounting to 6.5bn ($7.6bn) involving eight companies over a period of eight years. Steinhoff was the former owner of Frances Conforama and Mattress Firm in the US. Prior to the scandal, Steinhoff acquired a controlling stake in Pepkor. Following the scandal, Steinhoff - renamed as Ibex - has been reducing its ownership in Pepkor as a strategy to decrease its substantial debt over recent years. Pepkor, with 6,000 stores, is leveraging the growing trend of mobile payments and banking services across Africa. The retailer owns clothing brands Pep, Ackermans, Pep Africa and Avenida. Pepkor has reported a 12.8% rise in group revenue to R48.8bn, and its operating profit witnessed a 13.3% increase to R5.8bn. In September 2024, Shoprite reached an agreement to sell its furniture business, including the OK Furniture and House & Home brands, to Pepkor Holdings. "Ibex, formerly Steinhoff, sells entire stake in Pepkor for $1.5bn" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. Republican Rep. Mike Lawler Wednesday announced hell skip the New York governors race and will instead run for reelection in his Westchester County-based swing congressional district. After months of deliberating over this and really working through it, Ive decided the right thing to do for me and my family and my district is to run for reelection, Lawler said. The two-term moderate Republican said he wants to help the GOP by running to hold onto the suburban swing district, which is considered one of the most competitive battlegrounds in the entire nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im proud to run for reelection on my record and win next November and keep the House Republican majority, Lawler added. Democrats mocked Lawler for chickening out of the governors race, with Hochul tweeting that he doesnt have the spine to face me. A crowded field of Democrats has already lined up for the chance to take on Lawler, whose NY-17 district is one of just three in the nation that elected a Republican to the House but backed Kamala Harris over Trump. The challengers include Rockland County legislator Beth Davidson and Army veteran Cait Conley. Lawler was a key vote to pass Trumps unpopular Big Beautiful Bill, which included draconian cuts to health spending to fund outsized tax cuts for the rich. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed a side win in the bill by convincing Republicans to raise the cap on deducting SALT, or state and local taxes, to $40,000 from $10,000. Democrats say he welched on promises to eliminate it altogether. Lawler burst onto the political scene by toppling ex-Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney in the 2022 midterms in a race that featured a round of internal Democratic bickering following a redistricting battle that changed the district somewhat. In 2024, he easily turned aside a comeback effort from Democratic ex-Rep. Mondaire Jones, who held the seat previously. Lawlers decision is a boost to the no-holds-barred effort by President Trump and his Republican allies to hold onto their narrow House majority in the forthcoming midterm elections. The GOP holds a 219-212 edge, with four vacancies, three of which are in strongly Democratic districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party in power typically loses House seats in the first midterm elections after a president takes office, which would suggest a grim prognosis for the GOP, especially with Trumps approval ratings dipping into the low 40% range. But Trump is pushing Republicans to unilaterally redraw congressional district lines in states they control, most notably Texas and Ohio, which could yield close to 10 additional Republican seats. Democrats might counter by doing the same in blue states, potentially even New York, although the process looks legally trickier for them. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-New York) could now be a frontrunner for the GOP gubernatorial primary race. Republicans will also be keen to defend her far upstate district, but it should be an easier lift as it voted for Trump by a margin of about 20 points in 2024. NEW YORK Republican Rep. Mike Lawler Wednesday announced hell skip the New York governors race and will instead run for reelection in his Westchester County-based swing congressional district. After months of deliberating over this and really working through it, Ive decided the right thing to do for me and my family and my district is to run for reelection, Lawler said. The two-term moderate Republican said he wants to help the GOP by running to hold onto the suburban swing district, which is considered one of the most competitive battlegrounds in the entire nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im proud to run for reelection on my record and win next November and keep the House Republican majority, Lawler added. Democrats mocked Lawler for chickening out of the governors race, with Hochul tweeting that he doesnt have the spine to face me. A crowded field of Democrats has already lined up for the chance to take on Lawler, whose NY-17 district is one of just three in the nation that elected a Republican to the House but backed Kamala Harris over Donald Trump. The challengers include Rockland County legislator Beth Davidson and Army veteran Cait Conley. Lawler was a key vote to pass Trumps unpopular Big Beautiful Bill, which included draconian cuts to health spending to fund outsized tax cuts for the rich. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed a side win in the bill by convincing Republicans to raise the cap on deducting SALT, or state and local taxes, to $40,000 from $10,000. Democrats say he welched on promises to eliminate it altogether. Lawler burst onto the political scene by toppling ex-Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney in the 2022 midterms in a race that featured a round of internal Democratic bickering following a redistricting battle that changed the district somewhat. In 2024, he easily turned aside a comeback effort from Democratic ex-Rep. Mondaire Jones, who held the seat previously. Lawlers decision is a boost to the no-holds-barred effort by President Trump and his Republican allies to hold onto their narrow House majority in the forthcoming midterm elections. The GOP holds a 219-212 edge, with four vacancies, three of which are in strongly Democratic districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party in power typically loses House seats in the first midterm elections after a president takes office, which would suggest a grim prognosis for the GOP, especially with Trumps approval ratings dipping into the low 40% range. But Trump is pushing Republicans to unilaterally redraw congressional district lines in states they control, most notably Texas and Ohio, which could yield close to 10 additional Republican seats. Democrats might counter by doing the same in blue states, potentially even New York, although the process looks legally trickier for them. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, could now be a frontrunner for the GOP gubernatorial primary race. Republicans will also be keen to defend her far upstate district, but it should be an easier lift as it voted for Trump by a margin of about 20 points in 2024. President Donald Trump holds up the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" that was signed into law during an Independence Day military family picnic on the South Lawn of the White House on July 4, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Alex Brandon - Pool/Getty Images) President Donald Trump is receiving unusually boisterous support for his big, beautiful bill from an unexpected source: Republican state senators in Washington. The Senate Republican Caucus launched a web page rebuking Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson and Democratic lawmakers for stoking fear with false or misleading accusations about the new laws overhaul of Medicaid, food assistance, hospital funding, and energy policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It marks a change for Senate Republicans, and their leadership, whove sought to distance themselves from their partys actions in the other Washington. Since Trump signed the law on July 4, Democrats in Washington have dominated the narrative about it. Ferguson has warned that its difficult to overstate how devastating the laws cuts will be for Washingtonians, and that the reductions will bring our health care system to the brink and harm people in every corner of our state. Under a headline, The Truth, Senate Republicans deliver an itemized retort to Democrats major critiques. If we can get over the fearmongering coming from the Democratic majority and the Democratic governor and just look at what it really does for working people across the state of Washington, I think were going to be pretty pleased, Senate Minority Leader John Braun, R-Centralia, said in a podcast released with the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This full-throated defense comes as Braun is expected to soon announce a 2026 run against Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez in southwest Washingtons 3rd Congressional District. Braun acknowledged in an interview that the federal law creates some challenges and costs for the state. But, he said, Ferguson and Democratic legislators are overestimating the potential effects, many of which wont kick in until late next year. Washington Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson, right, congratulates Senate Republican leader John Braun after signing one of his bills into law in April 2025. (Jerry Cornfield/Washington State Standard) Ferguson did not respond to Brauns comments, but Brionna Aho, his communications chief, did. Sen. Braun is entitled to his opinion, but not his own facts, she said in an email. The evidence is overwhelming that the Big, Bad Betrayal Bill will harm thousands of Washingtonians, including Sen. Brauns own constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. June Robinson, D-Everett, the Democrats lead budget writer, said her Senate GOP colleagues are understating the federal laws financial hit to the state. Just to comply with new Medicaid reporting requirements, she said, We are going to have to spend a significant amount of money in 2026. Collateral damage? Senate Republicans embrace of the law carries political risk. Braun knows Trump is unpopular among Washingtons moderate Republicans and political independents. He angered Trump backers, and a few sitting senators, when his caucus political arm recruited and backed candidates in 2024 that were not MAGA acolytes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year, Republican candidates looking to unseat Democrats in two bellwether state Senate contests could be tethered to the controversial law and Trump by their opponents even if they disagree with what Congress approved. Crystal Fincher, a political consultant, said caucus leaders understand their base is solidly behind the bill, so silence is not an option. It is a failed strategy for Republicans to do the duck-and-cover thing, she said. Trying to make it a Democrat-Republican thing is the best shot at getting their base to ignore all of the warnings. Strategically, that is all they have. But Ben Anderstone, of Progressive Strategies NW, said it wont be helpful for state Republicans running this year to draw attention to Trumps signature policies when theyre trying to win over moderates and non-MAGA voters in the November general election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a brave gambit, he said. A lot of pain Ferguson blasted the Republican-backed law in three separate July 3 press releases. Hes put out six statements on this legislation alone since May 20, when he signed the new two-year state budget and tax hikes needed to balance it. This bill is anything but beautiful for Washington, he said in one release denouncing the rollback of clean energy tax credits. In another, he said it takes food from our most vulnerable Washingtonians to give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. According to Fergusons office, 250,000 people stand to lose Medicaid coverage and another 150,000 wont be able to afford insurance on the health care exchange. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the next 10 years, Washington could lose one-fifth of the federal dollars it receives to run Apple Health, the states Medicaid program, amounting to $3 billion to $5 billion per year, according to the nonpartisan health research group KFF. Ferguson has said reductions in Medicaid funding of that magnitude would likely accelerate rural hospital closures and reduce access to care for rural residents. Braun and Sen. Ron Muzzall, R-Oak Harbor, say that while Ferguson and others are complaining about the federal law, theyre overlooking hospital closures and service cuts that are the result of state policy enacted by Democrats. Muzzall, the lead Republican on the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee, pointed to new and higher taxes on doctors, staffing services, and other parts of the health care system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he flagged significant cuts to programs serving people on Medicaid, including more than $8 million for access to reproductive care and $50 million to pediatric dentistry. Weve heard a lot about the federal actions. Weve heard nothing of the impact our state is having on the health care system, Muzzall said. Theres a lot of pain that came out of the legislative session. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Gosnell police are investigating a reported abduction early Tuesday morning in Mississippi County, Arkansas. Yoxeli Rodriguez, 27, is believed to be with Darwguin Gomez. Gomez and Rodriquez (Gosnell Police Department) According to police, the two were last seen traveling in a 2014 silver Ford Escape heading west from Gosnell on the interstate. Detectives believe they may be traveling toward Texas or Alabama. The SUV has an Arkansas license plate with the number APF03X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have seen them, contact the Gosnell Police Department at 870-532-8545. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Updated July 28 Los Angeles Unified superintendent Alberto Carvalho struck a defiant tone in his back-to-school address Tuesday, pitting the district against federal authorities while praising its resilience from recent wildfires and the pandemic. Three weeks before half a million L.A. Unified students return to classes, Carvalho used the annual speech to preview new initiatives and set the tone for the coming school year threatened by political, operational and financial headwinds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the face of historic natural disaster and a volatile federal landscape, Carvalho said the district is not defined by what comes at us, and highlighted some of the districts best test scores ever. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter We dont fear pressure. We dont shrink from scrutiny, he said. In fact, weve got more resilience than Taylor Swift has eras. Already facing budget cuts this year, LAUSD is also looking at the potential loss of more than $120 million in federal funding as part of a contested $6.8 billion education funding freeze that could impact some of the districts most vulnerable students, including kids with disabilities and those living in poverty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carvalho took shots at the Trump administration, accusing President Donald Trumps administration of both being clueless and intentionally undermining U.S. democracy. If Washington had a model for federal funding, it would be if I cant spell it out, defund it, quipped Carvalho. And my friends, judging by their vocabulary, we should all be very, very afraid, for it is limited. One of the nations most visible superintendents and an energetic booster of LAUSD on social media, Carvalho is entering his third year running the nations second largest school district, having already hit some important benchmarks, including academic goals set by the board. But L.A. Unified faces some especially tough circumstances this coming year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal immigration agents visited two schools in search of undocumented minors during a series of raids in L.A. around the close of the last school year, setting off fear and depressing school attendance in the majority Hispanic district. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids roiled a district already pulverized by the worst wildfires in Los Angeles history, which occurred in January and February and displaced thousands of students, many of whom still lack stable housing. Related L.A. Schools Create Perimeters of Safety Against ICE Agents LAUSD also faces headwinds such as budget cuts, falling enrollment and stubborn problems with school climate and achievement gaps, all serious challenges that could threaten its future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Carvalho on Tuesday emphasized the positive in his message at the glitzy Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown L.A. near the districts headquarters, where he spoke before hundreds of LAUSD principals and administrators in a production worthy of Tinsel Town, complete with a zoom appearance from the rapper will.i.am, who bashed the recent immigration raids in L.A. A student mariachi band from James Garfield High School played a mariachi version of the national anthem. Costumed dancers from Fairfax High School performed selections from Wicked. Public education stands at a crossroads. The challenges are real and so is the urgency, said Carvalho,who name-checked Beyonce and quoted Tupac in his 80-minute presentation. But we will not lose our way, said Carvalho. We will continue to build better schools and a better future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the face of the possibility of more ICE action, Carvalho said the district would continue to maintain safe zones at schools where students will be protected from immigration enforcement. Additionally, Carvalho said, LAUSD will offer extra remote classes and bussing to families who ask for it. Even with budget cuts this year and looming cuts to come, Carvalho announced more than 40 new programs underway in the district, including a new push to deliver mental health services to students, a new online enrollment system for incoming families, and a new effort to deploy air-quality monitoring stations at schools. Related Teachers Union, Activists Dissatisfied With Los Angeles Unified Budget After posting gains on state exams earlier this year, Carvalho on Tuesday also revealed LAUSDs latest Smarter Balanced Assessments, districtwide tests of English, math and science that rose across all tested grades for the second straight year, and surpassed results from before the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calling the new SBA scores a new high watermark, Carvalho said two years of incremental gains at every tested grade level should provide clear solid evidence of the strength of the district in the face of challenges like the pandemic, immigration raids and wildfires. Districtwide, 46.5% of students met or exceeded grade level standards in English Language Arts in tests conducted in April and May. In math, the figure was 36.7%. For the first time ever, 11th grade students exceeded literacy standards, and across all subjects and grade levels, students showed significant growth in scores. LAUSD Board President Scott Schmerelson highlighted those results in his remarks at Carvalhos opening speech. Despite the many challenges we have faced, weve also seen significant progress, said Schmerelson. Our graduation rates continue to increase, as has our students achievement. (COLORADO) The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning Coloradans of a new wave of fraudulent texts and emails from scammers impersonating the DMV. The DMV warned individuals on Monday, July 21, of a series of fake texts that were pretending to be the Colorado DMV. According to Governor Polis, who addressed the scam on Tuesday, the messages falsely claim an individual has unpaid tickets and make threats of prosecution or license suspension. Dont be fooled! Polis wrote via Facebook. These messages are false and intended to intimidate you into sharing personal information. Stay safe! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per the DMV, the texts state that they are from the Colorado DMV or a similar official-sounding entity and contain a link to a fake website to resolve the issue or make a payment. These messages are NOT from the Colorado DMV. The DMV does not initiate contact via unsolicited text messages and emails to demand payment for tickets or to threaten prosecution or suspension of privileges in this manner, the DMV wrote on its website. Individuals who receive a message claiming to be from the DMV should: Not click on any links, as they often lead to fake websites designed to steal information. Not share any personal or financial information. This includes drivers license, Social Security number, credit card details, or banking information. Not reply to the message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will never ask for your personal info over text, the DMV said. No links. No fines. No deadlines. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. Gov. Josh Stein will tour the Coca-Cola Consolidated facility in Charlotte to meet with participants in its apprenticeship program Wednesday afternoon. ALSO READ >> Override votes set as NC lawmakers clash with Gov. Stein The apprenticeship program is a collaboration between Coca-Cola Consolidated and Central Piedmont Community College, designed to prepare students for careers in manufacturing, equipment repair, and logistics, according to a release from the governors press office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coca-Cola Consolidated in Charlotte is the largest bottler of Coca-Cola products in the nation, and the apprenticeship program aims to address the growing demand for skilled workers in various technical fields. The program offers hands-on training and education to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in high-demand positions. VIDEO: Gov. Stein signs bill to restrict student use of cellphones in class BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) An executive order issued by Governor Jeff Landry will allow Louisiana to join other state university systems to form a new alternative accrediting body. The executive order was issued on Tuesday, July 22, and it created the Governors Task Force on Public Higher Education Reform. This task force will ensure Louisianas public universities move away from DEI-driven mandates and toward a system rooted in merit-based achievement, Landry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The executive order stated that the task force will have 13 members. Information about the task force and its duties can be found below. EO-1Download Louisiana joined six other states in the creation of the Commission for Public Higher Education (CPHE). Those states include Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee. The CPHE will offer an alternative to the out-of-touch accreditation system and is committed to ensuring higher education prioritizes merit-based standards, Landry stated. Gov. Landry says coastal restoration project no longer financially or practically viable Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. LEWISTOWN, Pa. (WHTM) Governor Josh Shapiro was in Lewistown on Wednesday discussing economic opportunities in his proposed budget for local businesses. The governor visited downtown Lewistown businesses, including East End Coffee Company and Downtown OIP & Grille, as part of his tour Wednesday morning to award Lewistown with an official Main Street designation as part of the $20 million Main Street Matters program. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest The designation allows Lewistown to receive targeted help and priority consideration for future community project funding. Every community in our Commonwealth rural, urban, or suburban has a Main Street, and we know how vital they are to local economies. Our main streets are the beating hearts of towns and cities, and their success is directly tied to the small businesses that line them, said Governor Shapiro. Thats why my Administration is making strategic investments to revitalize these corridors and grow our local economies. Here in Lewistown, weve seen how a Main Street strengthens the community and thats why Im calling for $20 million to continue funding the Main Street Matters program in my 2025-26 proposed budget. Were bringing people together to invest in communities, grow businesses, and improve quality of life for all Pennsylvanians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed budget would allow aesthetic and safety improvements to businesses across the Midstate. Pennsylvanias state budget is several weeks past due as negotiations between the governors office, Senate Republicans, and House Democrats continue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. UK-based independent automotive distributor Inchcape says it has agreed to acquire Iceland-based Askja and its associated businesses. Askja is described as Icelands 'leading automotive distributor'. The company says the bolt-on acquisition further scales and enhances the Inchcape Groups geographic footprint in its Europe and Africa region and broadens the range of Inchcapes OEM partnerships. Over the last 20 years, Askja has developed a broad-based and diversified portfolio of OEM partnerships in Iceland, where it is the exclusive distributor for a range of leading global OEM partners, across a diverse range of automotive sub-sectors, including Mercedes-Benz Cars and Vans and Kia - a new OEM partner for Inchcape. Askja generated revenue of 150m in FY 2024, employing 260 people. During FY 2024, Icelands TIV (Total Industry Volume for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) was approximately 12,000 new vehicles, of which Askja holds a 16% market share. The transaction is subject to customary conditions and approvals, and is expected to complete during Q3 2025. Duncan Tait, Inchcape Group Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted to announce the acquisition of Askja, which is an excellent strategic fit for Inchcape, given its strong track record, diversified OEM brand portfolio, talented people and market leadership position. Iceland, a new market for Inchcape, represents an attractive opportunity to expand our footprint in our Europe and Africa region, while the acquisition also broadens the range of our OEM partnerships, as well as strengthening a number of our existing OEM relationships. This acquisition exemplifies our Accelerate+ strategy in action, by scaling and diversifying our geographic profile and OEM partner portfolio. By combining the local knowledge and specialist expertise of the acquired businesses with Inchcapes global, market-leading technology capabilities, this transaction will drive value for Inchcape, our shareholders, brand partners and new customers in Iceland." Jon Trausti Olafsson, Chief Executive of Askja, added: We are entering a new chapter with Inchcape where we join a strong company with an excellent reputation and diverse global operations. The combination of Askja's deep local expertise and culture with Inchcape's global know-how will ensure we can continue to lead the Icelandic automotive sector, an exciting new market for Inchcape in Northern Europe. I am very proud of Askjas achievements over the past two decades, including what we have delivered for our OEMs and customers, and what we have built for our people. We look forward to an exciting future with Inchcape." DENVER (KDVR) A Denver grand jury has indicted a Denver pastor and his wife for an alleged cryptocurrency scam targeted at Christians, which made sales of at least $3.4 million. Denver District Attorney John Walsh announced the indictment on Tuesday, stating Eligio Regalado and his wife, Kaitlyn, are currently facing 40 counts for an alleged scam that occurred between January 2022 and July 2023. Denver pastor admits he pocketed $1.3M in alleged cryptocurrency scheme Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These charges mark a major step forward in our work to hold the Regalados accountable for their alleged crimes and to bring a measure of justice to the victims. I want to thank the prosecutors and investigators in my office, and, particularly, the investigators with the Colorado Division of Securities and the Colorado Attorney Generals Office, whose outstanding work on the case resulted in this indictment, said Walsh. FOX31 obtained the indictment, which stated that Regalado and his wife have many years of experience in the marketing industry, and in 2021, decided to start a cryptocurrency scheme comprising of INDXcoin (the cryptocurrency) and the Kingdom Wealth Exchange (the platform where INDXcoin would be sold and traded). In the indictment, Regalado allegedly advertised INDXcoin through churches, in-person and online. This included the couples online church, Victorious Grace Church, which operated primarily from the couples home in Denver. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The document notes a video where Regalado reportedly stated: It was last October [20]21, that the Lord brought this cryptocurrency to me. He said, Take this to my people for a wealth transfer. It has been confirmed a hundred times since then. It is also stated that the couple claimed INDXcoin would be profitable to prospective and current investors; however, at least $1.3 million was pocketed for personal use. In 2024, FOX31 reported that Regalado allegedly admitted on his website to pocketing the money and that the creation of the cryptocurrency was made with no clear exit. I know this looks bad, Regalado said in the 2024 video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 40 counts are as follows: One count of COCCA pattern of racketeering One count of theft $1,000,000 or more One count of securities fraud or deceit 18 counts of securities make untrue statement Two counts of theft $100,000-$1,000,000 15 counts of theft $20,000-$100,000 Two counts of theft $5,000-$20,000 The DAs office said in the press release that, allegedly, INDXcoin kept a zero value, and all of its investors lost all of their money. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GRANDVIEW, Mo. A 14-year-old in Grandview, Missouri shows determination after a big piece of his summer project disappeared out of his front yard. Joe Cornelius has autism and launched Joes Banana Bakes to improve his communication skills, but over the weekend someone took his bread stand. GoFundMe created for grandmother killed in flash flood in Overland Park The self-serve stand was in Grandview, near 133rd and Bennington. They said someone took it out of Joes yard, near 133rd and Bennington, and returned it days later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Joe and his family have the stand chained to the tree. Through it all, mom Jessica Cornelius said Joe continued baking. I would just like to say thank to whoever brought my stand back, Joe said. About two weeks ago, Joe started a summer project, Joes Banana Bakes. It rose to something much bigger, bread flying off the shelves. Its really, really good and moist, Neighbor Amber Larson said. So, everybody should come try some. On the 14-year-olds first day, he stocked the shelf with 19 loaves and sold out. The next day, they doubled that amount and again sold out. I have chocolate chip, original, peanut butter chip, walnut, blueberry, Joe said, and then one of my new flavors and maple brown sugar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, Joe fills this stand with loaves of bread. In about two weeks, hes sold more than 200, family said. People drop cash in the tin or Venmo. Then, grab a loaf, while joe gets to work on his communication skills. Its been really great, he came to me the second day he was out here and he goes, Mom Im talking to people! He was beaming from ear to ear, Jessica said, and just so proud of himself and the pride that hes got and the confidence hes building is just huge. But last Friday, Joe walked outside to find his custom stand gone. Mainly I was upset because I worked pretty hard to get it and I had it three days, Joe said. Then, somebody took it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My heart sank, he had put a lot of effort and time into things and just to see the look on his face, he didnt understand what happened, Jessica said. There wasnt money or bread inside, just a sign that clearly said Joes Banana Bakes. Still, Joe set up a folding table that day and sold 45 loaves. Jessica put out a note on social media asking for its safe return. We really honestly thought somebody thought it was for free because we are in the middle of a city. Farm stands are not something that you are going to see in a suburban area like this, Jessica said. So, we honestly just figured somebody thought it was a mistake, thats why we reached out to the community, If anybody sees it, please let us knowwhatever happened we dont mind itif you want bread, its fine well give you some extra bread, just please bring it back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days later, while the family wasnt home, she said someone dropped off the stand showed in their front yard. Thank you to whoever brought it back, its been huge and thank you to the community, Jessica said. We couldnt have done it without their support and the support of Joe and telling him to keep his chin up thats been the biggest thing. Chiefs Trey Smith gets emotional talking about new contract, promise to late mom Joe has big goals right now, most of his profits go to buying ingredients. Eventually he wants to renovate a camper into a food truck. My goal is to have a food truck and go do all sorts of events and sell my bread there, Joe said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The one day Joey didnt sell out, family said he donated the leftover loaves to the Grandview Fire Department down the street. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. MONTPELIER, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) Governor Phil Scott announced Tuesday that local governments, non-profits, and private developers in seven counties can now apply for over $67 million in grants for disaster recovery in response to the July 2023 floods. The July 2023 storms were devastating for many communities across Vermont, said Scott. These grants will help ease the financial burden for much needed infrastructure and new housing so we can continue to strengthen our long-term resilience. Phil Scott reflects on anniversary of Vermont floods Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lamoille, Washington, Caledonia, Orleans, Rutland, Windham, and Windsor counties were designated most impacted and distressed in the 2023 floods, and organizations from those seven counties can apply. The application process begins with a pre-application on the states GEARS grant management system website. To finish a pre-application, interested parties will need to create and validate an account with the system, set up their dashboard, and choose either a recovery or an implementation grant. More complete instructions are included below. CDBG-DR-Pre-App-GuidanceDownload Following the pre-application, meetings will be scheduled to confirm the need for the grant, which may include meetings on-site. All projects are required to have an unmet need directly tied to the July 2023 flooding event, and to primarily benefit low- and moderate-income households. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their Vermont homes were inundated by extreme flooding. A year later, they still struggle to recover The funding is under the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program and is administered by the Vermont Community Development Program. The first round of pre-applications are due by August 5, with applications due by September 30. The governors office said that the hope is that the first round of awards will be announced by the end of the 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 ABC22 & FOX44. Twenty-four projects in 17 Iowa counties are receiving cost-share grants to support new and expanded biofuel infrastructure projects. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said in a news release that the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board recently approved an additional 24 applications from Iowa fuel retailers to support new and expanded biofuel infrastructure projects. These investments help drivers save money by offering expanded access to lower cost and cleaner burning homegrown biofuels like biodiesel and E15 (Unleaded 88). Over $1.12 million in cost-share grants were awarded by the RFIP Board during its quarterly meeting on July 17. The 24 project sites are in 17 different counties and total $1,124,750.86 in state cost-share. In the QCA, Country Automotive Services in Tipton (Cedar County) will receive $47,812.29 for a retail biodiesel site. Caseys General Store in Nichols (Muscatine County) will receive 11,910.09 for a retail E15 site. Molo Petroleum Companies in Davenport will receive $50,000 for a retail biodiesel site. Click here for the full list of grantees. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig (WHO-HD) Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program cost-share grants help Iowa families save money at the pump by expanding access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning biofuels like E15 and biodiesel, said Naig. Biofuels provide consumers with more fuel choices, all while supporting Iowa farmers and jobs in rural communities. As the nations leader in both ethanol and biodiesel production, Iowa is uniquely positioned to use more of the fuel we produce right here at home. These investments strengthen our economy and keep us moving forward with more affordable, homegrown energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investments are helping more Iowa fuel stations become compliant with the E15 Access Standard. Iowa was the first state to enact an E15 Access Standard, which requires most fuel retailers to offer E15 by January 1, 2026. The law was passed by the Iowa Legislature and signed by Gov. Reynolds in 2022. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship can provide cost-share funding through the RFIP for convenience stores and fuel stations that need help becoming compliant. The Department has invested over $63 million toward expanding renewable fuels infrastructure within Iowa since the cost-share grant program began in 2006. This has been matched with over $270 million by Iowa convenience stores and fuel retailers. Additional cost-share funding is available, so the Department is accepting grant applications to help more fuel stations improve and upgrade infrastructure. Click here for the application. The RFIP Board will consider applications at an upcoming quarterly meeting. The application deadline for consideration at the next quarterly meeting is August 27 at 4:30 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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. To the surprise of nobody, our water industry has been found wanting. An ineffective regulator allowed self-serving companies to enrich shareholders and directors at the expense of the public interest for decades. Instead of investing in our creaking Victorian infrastructure, water companies were saddled with debt by their private owners to pay out dividends. Billions of pounds were funnelled from Thames Water alone, funded largely through then-owner, Macquarie, which more than tripled the utility providers debt burden to 10.8bn in just 11 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most recently, the firm paid 21 senior staff 2.5m in bonuses in April as a reward for taking on an eye-watering loan, partly to plug the gaps of said wealth extraction. Thames Water is not alone in this. Over the past decade, more than 112m has been paid in bonuses to senior staff at water utility firms, despite their consistent failures as either public good or private enterprise. These businesses dumped raw sewage into the nations waterways for 3.6 million hours in 2024 because their ancient systems, left unimproved for decades, are overwhelmed by modern requirements. But of course it is we, the British public, who are being charged for cleaning up someone elses mess yet again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The eternal mugs, and doormats for the incompetent, we will be saddled with a hefty increase in our water bills to fund the ever-worsening services we enjoy. Dont forget, this comes on the back of a roughly 30-50pc rise three months ago, depending on your provider. But we cant be surprised theyve taken us for fools again. This is just the latest kick in the teeth in a dense history of tooth-kicking. If theres one thing the British public can rely upon, its paying for the privilege of decline. Draw an infrastructure project out of the hat, and youll find a spiralling bill and a bumbling bunch of executives soon to be called in front of a committee hearing explaining why theres no sign of what was promised and why they couldnt possibly return their fee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Promised to open in 2026 for a cost of 31bn, HS2 was set to connect London to Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds on high speed rail. Now, it will open no earlier than 2036 for a cost of more than 100bn, and will only run from London to Birmingham. If were lucky. For more than triple the cost, were set for a third of the railway to be delivered in double the time. And wholl be footing the bill? You guessed it. Even on our current tracks, were being taken for a ride. Rail fares rose yet again this year, but only 68pc of services depart on time. Were finally set for a new nuclear power plant a decade from now in the form of Sizewell C at a bargain cost of just 38bn. Excellent news, but nobody mention the fact it was supposed to be operational by now for a total cost of 20bn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont forget our crumbling services. Councils continue to raise taxes while they shift our bin collections to once every three weeks. Yes, the burden of funding care costs leaves a large dent in local authority finances, but pouring 665m into an (alleged) sham cant help. Its not just the failed investments and obscene borrowing that our local councillors are learning from the water sector. They also enjoy golden parachutes for bankrupting their organisations, and saddling us with the bill. Not to mention how difficult it is to get a GP appointment (no wonder record numbers now use private healthcare) or an NHS dentist, find a local school or have the police investigate a burglary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At some point, the gravy train of incompetence will come to a juddering halt. Whether thats because we start to hold those responsible to account or simply run out of money to burn in its engines is anybodys guess. 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 grisly double murder and multiple residential burglaries, including at least one in which the family was in the house during the break-in, have Encino residents on edge, fearing the worst and frustrated with law enforcement. Surveillance footage from July 21, just after 10 p.m,. captured three men in black hoodies jumping over a gate and onto the driveway of a home in the 4500 block of Hayvenhurst Avenue. The would-be thieves entered the residence through a side door and into a bedroom used as an office before the propertys security alarm went off, sending the burglary crew running out empty-handed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The homeowners, Edwin Arroyave and his wife, television personality Teddi Mellencamp, best known for a three-season stint on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, along with their children, were upstairs when the break-in unfolded. Im surprised because I would assume they thought people were home, and they still did it anyway, Arroyave told KTLA. Im concerned that it continues to happen around here, in this part of town. For some reason, it just doesnt stop. Arroyave, who made appearances on TRHOBH, added that a lot of homes in the area are being targeted by thieves, not just ones where celebrities live. The Monday night break-in at the familys home wasnt even the only one reported in Encino that night. A three-man burglary crew seen on surveillance video breaking into an Encino property on July 21, 2025. (IG: edwinarroyaveofficial) A three-man burglary crew seen on surveillance video breaking into an Encino property on July 21, 2025. (IG: edwinarroyaveofficial) A three-man burglary crew seen on surveillance video breaking into an Encino property on July 21, 2025. (IG: edwinarroyaveofficial) A three-man burglary crew seen on surveillance video breaking into an Encino property on July 21, 2025. (IG: edwinarroyaveofficial) Edwin Arroyave and his wife, TV personality Teddi Mellencamp, are seen in this undated photo. More than 500 residents packed the Encino Community Center for a town hall on recent crime on July 21, 2025. (KTLA) L.A. County DA Nathan Hochman speaking at a town hall meeting at the Encino Community Center, July 21, 2025. (KTLA) The two people found shot to death in an upscale Encino home on Monday afternoon are an American Idol music supervisor and her husband, according to TMZ. (Facebook/Robin Kaye) A second burglary in the 4900 block of Enfield Avenue, approximately two and a half miles away, was also reported. It is unclear if anything was taken in that case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A little less than two weeks ago, Robin Kaye, 70, an executive on the television show American Idol, and her husband, musician Thomas DeLuca, 70, were killed inside their home in the 4700 block of White Oak Avenue by a 22-year-old man who reportedly shot the couple multiple times, including in the head, with a gun he found after breaking into the well-fortified $4-$5 million residence. Please dont shoot me: Frightening details emerge in Encino double murder Despite two calls to 911 in relation to a possible break-in at the home that day, police didnt discover the murdered couple until four days later, when they returned to the property for a welfare check. The brutal murders have much of the community on edge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a town hall meeting at the Encino Community Center Monday night, the same night as the two most recent burglaries, L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed to a crowd of more than 500 residents that the 22-year-old suspect called 911 from inside their home at some point during grisly killings. During the meeting, representatives of the Los Angeles Police Department attempted to reassure the community that while it might not seem like it, there has been a decrease in residential burglaries. Many in the audience didnt buy it, with one person saying a decrease in burglaries doesnt matter when people are still being victimized by burglary crews. Why does it have to take a death in order for us to have a meeting like this? one woman at the meeting said. Advertisement 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. Astorg portfolio company IQ-EQ has announced the purchase of Gordian Capital, an institutional cross-border fund platform and fund solutions provider in Asia. The deal has secured clearances from the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, and is anticipated to close soon, contingent on the fulfilment of standard closing conditions. Gordian Capital caters to a diverse clientele, which includes global and regional asset managers, sovereign wealth funds, development finance institutions, family offices, and corporates. IQ-EQ Group CEO Mark Pesco said: This acquisition represents a significant milestone in IQ-EQs growth strategy, further solidifying our strong market position in the Asia Pacific region. Asia has long been a key region for IQ-EQ, and the addition of Gordian Capital, alongside our recent acquisition of AMAL Group, underscores our commitment to expanding our presence and capabilities in this dynamic market. Founded in 2004 in the Cayman Islands and establishing a presence in Singapore in 2005, Gordian Capital operates with a team of 77 professionals across offices in Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Melbourne. The firm currently manages assets worth $17bn, with 96% sourced from institutional investors. Mark Voumard, CEO and co-founder of Gordian, will continue to lead the firm and will integrate into IQ-EQ's senior leadership team in Asia. Gordian Capital will operate under its existing name until the second quarter of 2026, when it will rebrand as IQ-EQ. Voumard said: Im delighted to announce this game-changing deal, which we at Gordian feel is a perfect strategic fit for our business. We were attracted to IQ-EQ not just for its impressive market leadership but their firm wide focus on people and delivering best in class client service excellence sealed the deal. In May this year, IQ-EQ acquired South Watch from Everlane Equity Partners and principal employee shareholders. South Watch focuses on fund administration, outsourced CFO services, and tax preparation for hedge fund managers in the US and Cayman Islands. "IQ-EQ to buy fund platform Gordian Capital" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand. Flash flooding hit New York City and New Jersey declared a state of emergency as storms soaked the Northeast on Monday night. A flood warning was in effect for all five boroughs of New York City as New Yorkers filmed subway stations filling up with water. Local news footage and clips shared online by New Yorkers showed cars stranded in deep water in Westchester County, torrents of water flowing down New York City subway station stairs, and water pouring onto subway platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York City officials urged residents to take precautions as thunderstorms through the afternoon produced heavy rain. If you live in a basement apartment or low-lying area, be ready to move to higher ground, New York City 311 wrote in an X post Monday night. Flooding in Elmsford, New York, captured by CBS News (CBS News/Youtube) The National Weather Service wrote shortly after 10 p.m. ET Monday on X, 'The heaviest rainfall has shifted east and weakened' (National Weather Service) New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency due to flash flooding and high levels of rainfall in parts of the state. Please stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe, New Jersey, Murphy wrote on X Monday night. At least six East Coast airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, were forced to ground flights over the storms Monday, causing severe delays and throwing travelers' plans into chaos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York City's JFK and LaGuardia airports, along with New Jerseys Newark Liberty International Airport, were all under ground stop orders at one point on Monday evening, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Philadelphia International, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport outside D.C. also had flights grounded. At least six East Coast airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport, were forced to ground flights over storms on Monday, causing severe delays and throwing travelers' plans into chaos (Getty) By 8.30 p.m. local time, some of those ground stops had ended, but the FAA still reported delays of between 45 minutes and three hours. The National Weather Service forecasted at around 4 p.m. Eastern Time one to two inches of widespread rainfall in parts of New York, including Queens, where JFK and LaGuardia airports are located. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its New York City office wrote on X shortly after 10 p.m. ET, The heaviest rainfall has shifted east and weakened. This rain is expected to continue to move east and lessen in intensity through the night. The service said in an update shortly before 10 p.m. ET some New Jersey locations, including Newark, will experience flooding. One passenger whose plane is bound for JFK airport wrote on X shortly before 9 p.m. ET, We have been circling just outside New York for last 90 minutes. Cant land due to weather related airport congestion. Pilot just told us that have 1 hour of fuel left for circling, before we land somewhere else at a nearby airport, the passenger said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another angry traveler wrote on X at around 8.20 p.m. ET: I've been sitting at Newark airport for over 4 hours now. New York City officials urged residents to take precautions against heat and further floods expected Tuesday due to "hot and humid conditions" expected to "approach or exceed" 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicago-area groups that support LGBTQ+ individuals are navigating an uncertain landscape while bracing for federal funding cuts that could affect HIV care and prevention. Cuts outlined in President Donald Trumps proposed 2026 budget mean some groups stand to lose federal funds that support medical services like testing and HIV treatment, as well as nonmedical patient supports such as housing and food subsidies. Research money that goes toward drug development is also on the chopping block. Advocates say that because the virus disproportionately affects transgender, Black and Latino individuals and prevention efforts have been focused on those communities HIV funding has taken a hit as diversity, equity and inclusion programs are rolled back. When we allocate funds to prioritize the needs of this community, its a community that has been impacted by health disparities since before weve been counted by the census, said Terra Campbell, associate director of community relations at LGBTQ+ health care provider Howard Brown Health. Its not special treatment. Its investment in the needs of your neighbor and the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Midwest AIDS Training and Education Centers funding will be cut completely in the current budget proposal for fiscal year 2026. It provides training and support for health care professionals working in HIV prevention, care and treatment. Shanett Jones, Illinois program director, estimates the center trains more than 4,000 providers every year. The center receives funding under the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, the largest federal program for HIV in America. The 2026 budget proposal eliminates the part of the Ryan White program that establishes and funds all AIDS education and training centers across the United States. If we do lose this funding, we risk having a less prepared workforce, which leads to delayed diagnosis of people living with HIV, Jones said. This is an infrastructure that, once its dismantled, it does not come back easily you cant win the race by slashing the engine. AIDS Foundation Chicago gets more than 80% of its funding from federal sources. Alongside advocacy work, the foundation provides support services for people living with HIV, including testing and prevention resources, education, housing and health insurance. In 2024, the foundation served more than 8,000 people in the Chicago area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timothy Jackson, senior director of policy, said the foundation is currently planning for a projected loss of 40% of those funds in the presidents 2026 budget request. AIDS Foundation Chicago is partially funded by both Ryan White and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to KFF, a nonprofit health policy research organization, the proposed budget cuts all of the CDCs HIV prevention funds. The foundation also receives funding through the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program, which will also be eliminated in the proposed 2026 budget. These nonmedical services are essential for reducing HIV in Chicago, Jackson said. We have to look at all of the other things that make HIV possible, or make the transmission of HIV possible. So thats when we talk about housing, thats when we talk about harm reduction. Thats why we talk about transportation and food access and all of these other different things, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AIDS Foundation Chicago filed a lawsuit in February along with two other nonprofits challenging executive orders that sought to end diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programs and equity-related grants and contracts. Our mission is rooted in ending HIV and homelessness in the communities that are most impacted. And it is very difficult to do that when you are not leading with equity, Jackson said. These organizations work has already been affected by the National Institutes of Health funding pause earlier this year, and will continue to be affected by cuts to research funding in the planned budget. Jackson said the recent success of the twice-annual HIV prevention shot, lenacapavir, would not have been possible without NIH and CDC funding. This administration does not value science. We see that play out over the huge cuts at the CDC, the National Institutes of Health, which all impact HIV and the work around new HIV treatment and prevention modalities, Jackson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even groups that are not largely reliant on federal funding are experiencing the strain of an uncertain economic future. Chris Balthazar, executive director of TaskForce Prevention and Community Services, a health and wellness group serving LGBTQ+ youth in Chicago, says many of his organizations partners are only signing contracts for quarterly periods, instead of their usual 12-month periods, in case funding disappears. These partners are how TaskForce provides many of its services, which include legal and housing aid, HIV and other STD testing, and connecting patients to medical care. Imagine what the impact of that is on the ground. How do you sustain a job on a grant that you dont even have a full 12-month contract for? he said. Additionally, Balthazar explained that while state funding is not being cut as explicitly as federal funding, it is still expected to decline. The federal government partially funds the Illinois and Chicago Departments of Public Health, which then give grants to groups like TaskForce. Since the health departments dont know what sort of funding to expect in the next year, they arent able to commit to the same grants they have in years previous. So much of the state budget comes from the federal budget. And I think that its scary that, unfortunately, if this continues and nothing is undone, were going to see major cuts, and were going to see more and more people who are on the margins of the margins be even more drastically devastated by this, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Jackson and Jones said that the most important thing anyone can do for HIV care and prevention in Chicago right now is to call their representatives and express support for continued HIV funding. Its reassuring that we have people who are still engaged, who are still advocating, who are still hoping. And when I go and I talk to community groups, I tell them, we cant go back to the 80s, Jackson said. Were going to do what we have always done in 40-plus years of the epidemic: rely on community to get us through. GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) A culinary student will travel to Las Vegas to represent Guilford Technical Community College at the national American Culinary Federation student competition at the end of July. Jackelin Sanchez has been practicing diligently for the last two and a half months to put her best dishes forward. There will be people watching, but I think I do well under pressure, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanchez is heading to Nevada with plenty to be proud of. She qualified for the national competition after earning silver in the regional competition that was held in Myrtle Beach in April. Although people could see Sanchezs talent when she came to GTCC a little more than two years ago, she said it took her some time to gain the confidence to compete. She said her teachers and mentors at GTCC have brought out the best in her. Even with this competition, I see how my chefs have gone out of their way for me. A lot have kept me in their prayers have pushed me to keep going even when its gotten hard, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanchez appreciates various parts of her college experience, including learning what its like to participate in community outreach. Sanchez helped feed veterans for the Heroes Dinner in High Point and, on a separate occasion, met former White House Chef Andre Rush. He was able to give me critiques and his opinions on how he thinks I should have done things better or what he liked, and it was just really cool having someone of that talent and that degree looking at my food, she said. Sanchezs work in the program over the years has demonstrated grit, growth and gratitude, which are all of the right ingredients for taking her skills to the next level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school has just provided so many opportunities for me and for students who want to keep growing and learning, and so I wouldnt have wanted to go anywhere else. This place has opened a lot of doors for me Gave me a newfound passion for cooking. Its just really exciting, 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 FOX8 WGHP. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WKBN) Cleveland Guardians pitcher Shane Bieber made a successful rehab appearance with single-A Lake County on Tuesday night. Bieber pitched a total of three innings for the Captains. He allowed one earned run on two hits with four strikeouts and no walks. According to multiple reports, the right-handers velocity ranged from 92-94 mph. Bieber, who is working his way back from Tommy John surgery in 2024, is expected to make several additional rehab starts before joining the Major League roster sometime in August. Advertisement 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. The wife of the architect of the Oct 7 massacre was smuggled out of Gaza and remarried in Turkey, it has been reported. Samar Muhammad Abu Zamar, the wife of Yahya Sinwar, slipped out of the enclave using a fake passport and carrying significant amounts of cash, sources in Gaza told Ynet, an Israeli news website. She married again a few months after Sinwar, Hamass military commander, was killed by Israeli troops in October 2024, the news outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources said her wedding and resettlement in Turkey were organised by Fathi Hammad, a Hamas political bureau member who has been linked to attempts to hide terror operatives and their families. In 2024, footage was released showing Abu Zamar walking through a Hamas tunnel, clutching what appeared to be a designer handbag, hours before the Oct 7 attacks. Although officially unconfirmed, the story has been widely reported in Israel. Hamas, which styles itself as the primary force of Palestinian resistance to Israel, has repeatedly been accused of drawing strength from the suffering of ordinary Gazans who cannot leave the territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ynet reported an Israeli security official as saying that both Abu Zamar and Najwa Sinwar, the wife of Mohammed Sinwar, who took command of Hamas after his brother was killed, left Gaza via Rafah. Shes no longer here she crossed through the Rafah border using a fake passport, a source said of Abu Zamar, saying the escape required high-level coordination, logistical support, and large sums of money that regular Gazans dont have. The women are believed to have escaped via a smuggling network that Hamas has long had in place to evacuate the families of its leaders. The report comes amid increasing resentment from Palestinians towards Hamas after 19 months of war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pictures and videos showing senior members of the group living comfortable lifestyles elsewhere in the Middle East have also fuelled criticism. One Gazan civilian said: They send their children to study in Turkey and Qatar and send ours to the grave. What makes them different from any corrupt ruler in the Arab world? They only look after themselves. Hamas is now believed to be under the command of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the only senior commander from Oct 7 still alive. Hostage negotiations are believed to have been hampered by difficulty in communicating with what is left of Hamass military structure in the Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although groups of fighters are still inflicting regular losses on the IDF, the group is no longer capable of organised military operations across a wide area. 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. This is not the collapse of the negotiations, the official stressed. This delegation stayed in Doha for over two and a half weeks longer than any previous Israeli team." Following a pivotal meeting overnight with international mediators who had come from talks with Hamas representatives, the Israeli delegation returned to Israel early Thursday morning for consultations after over two weeks of high-stakes negotiations in Doha. The Israeli negotiating team will leave Qatar to continue consultations on the ceasefire proposal in Israel, in light of Hamas's response on Thursday morning, the Prime Minister's Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US special envoy Steve Witkoff later added: We have decided to bring our team home from Doha for consultations after the latest response from Hamas, which clearly shows a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. "While the mediators have made a great effort, Hamas does not appear to be coordinated or acting in good faith. We will now consider alternative options to bring the hostages home and try to create a more stable environment for the people of Gaza. "It is a shame that Hamas has acted in this selfish way. We are resolute in seeking an end to this conflict and a permanent peace in Gaza, Witkoff concluded. Illustrative image of Hamas terrorists in Gaza. (credit: Getty images/MAHMUD HAMS/AFP, Adam Smigielski) The meeting, which took place shortly after 2:30 a.m. local time, saw mediators present Hamass official response to Israels latest proposal a plan submitted more than a week ago aimed at reaching a comprehensive hostage and ceasefire deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While some early progress had been made on select issues, significant gaps remain, an Israeli official confirmed. We studied Hamass reply in depth, the official said. The delegation held internal consultations and spoke directly with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It was decided that the delegation should return to Israel to assess how best to narrow the gaps. Despite the return of the delegation, Israeli officials emphasized that the move does not signal a breakdown of talks. This is not the collapse of the negotiations, the official stressed. This delegation stayed in Doha for over two and a half weeks longer than any previous Israeli team. We've reached a stage where further progress requires consultation at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Israeli assessments, the response delivered by Hamas does not allow for continued progress unless there is movement in their positions. The official added, As things stand, its not in our area code. Jerusalem is now expected to engage in further discussions with Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediators in an effort to identify creative ways to bridge the current divides. Israel is committed to continuing contacts even after the delegations return, the source said. We are not walking away from the table. The official anticipates the delegation will return to Qatar once there is a viable path forward toward finalizing a deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official added that the Israeli government remains focused on the return of the hostages held by Hamas since October 7. Israel entered these negotiations with the assumption that Hamas was interested in a deal, the official added. Our representatives were never naive they were realistic. There is a genuine effort underway, and we believe the gaps can still be closed. Hamas's response: Renewed demands on war guarantees, prisoner releases, aid In the response Hamas delivered to Israel, the group reasserted its demand for an explicit guarantee that the war will not resume even if no agreement is reached after the proposed 60-day ceasefire period, according to two sources familiar with the details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump had said that if negotiations on ending the war take place, they would continue beyond the 60 days, an Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post, but now Hamas is demanding a formal guarantee that the war will, in effect, come to a full stop. In addition, Hamas is demanding the release of 200 prisoners serving life sentences and 2,000 others arrested in Israel after October 7. By contrast, the current Israeli proposal includes the release of 125 prisoners serving extended life sentences and 1,100 additional prisoners. According to the two sources, Hamas also submitted renewed demands on humanitarian issues, despite those matters having been largely agreed upon. Hamas is now insisting that only the United Nations, and not the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), be responsible for distributing humanitarian aid. The group is also demanding the opening of the Rafah crossing for both humanitarian aid and the entry of civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding security maps and territorial arrangements, Hamas has agreed to a security perimeter of 800 meters in populated areas of Gaza, and 1,000 meters in unpopulated zones. Sources involved in the negotiations told the Post that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the pressure being placed on Israel over the issue, ultimately gives Hamas less incentive to show flexibility because they know Israel is on the hot seat. A senior Hamas source told Reuters on Thursday that there was still a chance of reaching a Gaza ceasefire agreement, but it would take a few days because of what he called Israeli stalling. The source said Hamas' response to the latest ceasefire proposal included requesting a clause that would prevent Israel from resuming the war if an agreement was not reached within the 60-day truce period. Reuters contributed to this report. New Hampshires new state budget redirects an estimated $15 million from a dedicated renewable energy fund into the general fund, likely signaling the end of plans to expand a popular pilot supporting municipal solar developments. While some New England states have moved to strengthen clean energy policy in the face of President Donald Trumps efforts to quash renewable power development, New Hampshire has taken a different path: The provisions of the latest budget leave just $1 million in the renewable energy fund each year for programs that, in fiscal year 2024, cost more than $5 million to administer. This is a big step backward for renewable energy in the state. Theres going to be very little left over, said Nick Krakoff, senior attorney in New Hampshire for the Conservation Law Foundation. That means there would be basically nothing left for this municipal program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The renewable energy fund, established in 2007, receives money from electric service providers that are unable to meet their obligations to source a certain level of renewable power each year. Most years, the fund takes in anywhere from $2 million to $8 million. The money has traditionally supported a handful of renewable energy incentives, and revenues have generally exceeded spending. At the beginning of fiscal year 2024, the fund had a balance of nearly $15.3 million. Earlier this year, the state energy department started laying out plans to use some of this money to support solar projects developed by municipal governments. Such developments have both financial and environmental benefits, saving money for towns and thus taxpayers while cutting greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation in a region that relies heavily on natural gas to fuel its power plants. Still, municipal solar projects can be a hard sell for voters in New Hampshire, a state with a reputation for frugality. The state has no sales tax or income tax, so government operations are funded mainly by hefty property taxes. It is also home to many small towns with constrained budgets. Though solar installations can save a town money, voters are generally reluctant to approve the upfront cost, which could increase their property taxes. The reality for New Hampshire residents is that municipal budgets are very, very, very tight, and property taxes keep going up, said Sarah Brock, director of the nonprofit Clean Energy New Hampshires Energy Circuit Rider program, which helps towns develop clean energy and energy efficiency projects. Every year at town meeting, theres a pretty substantial reluctance to approve money for just about anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, the state launched the Municipal Solar Grant Program to help towns overcome those hurdles and install solar panels on municipal property. The pilot program has a specific focus on small or economically disadvantaged towns that would have a harder time funding such projects on their own. The initiative uses $1.6 million in funding that the state received through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed in 2021. Thirty towns applied for the funding through the pilot; 16 were selected to receive grants between $45,000 and $200,000. Staff with the Energy Circuit Riders program identified perhaps 20 more towns that might also be interested in future funding opportunities. We had over 50 towns in our active project pipeline that would want to go after this funding, Brock said. We know the demand is there. The plan was to follow up with a permanent program paid for by the renewable energy fund. In the spring, the state energy department asked for comments on the proposed program and ideas about how to modify the approach used in the pilot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The annexation of the renewable energy fund, however, could put an end to these plans, advocates said. With only $1 million available each year, there would not be enough money available to continue existing offerings like its nonresidential competitive grant program and rebates for wood pellet stoves at current levels. Adding an entirely new initiative may be a nonstarter. No one is telling us the program is dead, but it is possible that it will be impossible to run if there isnt funding for it, Brock said. Neither the office of Gov. Kelly Ayotte nor the state energy department responded to requests for comment about the future of the program. The first project completed under the pilot was a 26-kilowatt solar array atop the town hall in Kensington, New Hampshire, in the southeastern corner of the state and home to about 2,000 people. Kensington has an annual budget of just $2.6 million, so voters were unlikely to approve a nearly $100,000 investment, even if it promised savings in the long run, said Zeke Schmois, chair of the towns energy committee. So the local solar boosters turned to the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town received about $92,000 for the project. The final panels went up in early July, making Kensington the first place to complete an installation as part of the grant program. This isnt a solar farm, but its huge for a town like ours with such a small budget and such a small population, Schmois said. Kensington expects the installation to offset about 70% of the town halls annual electricity use, Schmois said. But those savings are just the beginning of the impact: The town historical commission was involved with the approval process and realized that modern solar panels can blend inconspicuously with roofing. The group is now eager to collaborate on future solar projects, Schmois said. Other towns hope for similar benefits. Dublin, New Hampshire, received a grant of about $43,000 for a solar array that should meet all the town fire stations power needs once it is installed later this summer, said Susan Peters, the chair of Dublins select board and founding member of its energy committee. She hopes the installations location along a major state highway will help normalize the idea of solar, and help build support for another project under consideration: a ground-mounted array near a capped landfill. The fact that were doing this project strengthens peoples interest, she said. The New Hanover Board of County Commissioners voted 3-2 Monday to walk away from a joint committee with the City of Wilmington that was created to look into workforce housing issues. (Photo: Screenshot from commission video feed) In a politically charged vote, the New Hanover County Board of County Commissioners voted 3-2 on Monday to withdraw from a committee devoted to workforce housing issues. The boards three Republicans voted in favor of the controversial move and its two Democrats voted against it. The commissioners vote ended the countys participation in the Workforce Housing Advisory Committee (WHAC), which was a joint committee between the county and the City of Wilmington. It was created in 2019 to develop a study and to make recommendations to promote the development of affordable housing for public employees. GOP commissioners emphasize budget cuts, lower taxes During the countys recent budget process, the boards Republican majority LeAnn Pierce, Dane Scalise and Bill Rivenbark voted to cut funding to the committee, which amounted to $3 million a year. Part of the money was used to help workforce housing developers leverage federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to reduce the cost of housing. County Manager Chris Coudriet (Photo: New Hanover County) Im bringing to you a recommendation that I think is clearly in keeping with the boards adopted policy as it relates to withdrawing funding from the workforce housing program, County Manager Chris Coudriet told the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coudriet noted that, to date, the county has spent $9 million on WHAC to support affordable and workforce housing. He said that work will continue. A previous board agreed to spend $15 million on WHAC over five years. The boards decision to back away from the WHAC comes as New Hanover County and many other counties and municipalities across the state and nation are making investments to increase housing supplies to accommodate an unprecedented demand for affordable housing. Commissioners who favored withdrawing from WHAC said they must balance financial considerations and quality of life demands with the countys need for affordable housing. Commissioner LeAnn Pierce (Photo: New Hanover County) Our citizens overwhelmingly told us that they did not want to see their tax rate go up. Commissioner Pierce said. They overwhelmingly said they were struggling at home, and they wanted us to hear them. A growing statewide problem A recent study commissioned by the North Carolina Chamber found that the state has a significant housing crisis and needs 760,000 new housing units over the next five years to meet demand across its 100 counties. According to the study, New Hanover County has a 21,656-unit housing gap when owner and renter data are combined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The countys withdrawal also comes amid steep budget cuts for New Hanover County. In June, the county chopped $36 million from its budget and cut 70 filled positions to avoid a tax increase. It also comes as New Hanover County is experiencing record growth. According to USA Facts, New Hanover Countys population grew 15.6% between 2010 and 2022. By comparison, the U.S. population grew 7.7% during that span and North Carolinas population grew 11.7% during that period. Providing affordable housing has been a big problem, particularly in the states urban areas. Some counties and municipalities have partnered with nonprofits to build workforce housing for teachers, police officers, firemen and other critical workers who otherwise couldnt afford to live in communities they serve. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development generally refers to workforce housing as housing that is affordable to workers earning 80% and 120% of the area media income. That is the range in which individuals and families may earn too much for traditional subsidized housing but struggle to to afford housing in their local market. Thirty-four percent of renters and homeowners in New Hanover County are burdened by housing costs, according the N.C. Housing Coalitions 2025 profiles of the states 100 counties. Families that spend more than 30% of its income off housing are considered cost burdened. Challenges posed by growth Commissioner Scalise said private developers are better equipped to manage the housing crisis. He said the boards policy shift is a response to citizens demand for more thoughtful housing development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our community members have repeatedly over the last couple of years have indicated to us that they are concerned about the rate and speed of density in New Hanover County, Scalise said. A resident speaking against a rezoning for a townhome community urged commissioners to reject all requests for high-density zoning. We need to stop building and clarify our goals as a county, Adrianne Garber said. We need a rate-of-growth ordinance limiting the number of residential and non-residential [building] permits each year. Garber called for a moratorium on all building permits until the county develops a plan to regulate growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not everyone can live here, Garber said, restating a phrase used frequently by those who supported withdrawing from the WHAC. There are eight billion people on this planet; they cannot all live here. Scalise said the board must pay attention to residents concerns. County policy should not burden the community with apartments and diminishes the quality of life for residents. Its not to say Im unconcerned about the issue of affordability of course I am, and it would be ridiculous to say otherwise but Im also concerned about the quality of life of the people in this community and we cannot simply build our way out of this issue. In recent years, Scalise said the county has spent $29 million on affordable housing and workforce housing with little to show for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont we owe it to the people that we represent to at least pause for a moment and determine how successful or not successful the investments weve made are going to be before we continue on unabated with further investment into this area? Scalise asked. Commissioner Rob Zapple (New Hanover County) Democrats push back Democratic commissioners Rob Zapple and Stephanie Walker voted against Coudriets recommendation. The two challenged their colleagues perception that WHAC did not perform as intended. In the three years since [the board agreed to spend $15 million on WHAC], we have spent $9 million and it has done exactly what you said you were not aware of, Zapple responded. Its [county funding] leveraged $150 million in private investment that has gone into trying to solve this [housing] problem. Zapple said the WHAC has offered ideas and solutions to help mitigate the housing crisis in the county at minimum cost. The countys efforts have also produced 400 new housing units as a result of its WHAC participation, he said. This is a huge problem in New Hanover County, and yes, we cannot fit everybody in, Zapple said. We certainly can be creative, look around the country, which is what were doing, grabbing those initiatives that will help us make our critical employees, many of which actually work for New Hanover County who cant afford to live in New Hanover County. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at the Hospital of Central Connecticut proudly celebrates a decade of delivering world-class, compassionate care to the community. Since opening its doors in 2015, the institute has become a symbol of excellence, growth, and innovation bringing hope, healing, and highly coordinated care to thousands of patients and families across the region. Joining us today to tell us more is Dr. Brian Byrne, medical director of quality and safety at the Hospital of Central Connecticut and Midstate Medical Center, joined Good Morning Connecticut at 9 a.m. Advertisement 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. Jul. 23A Hartselle man was arrested Monday for beating a 78-year-old man so severely the victim required intensive care and surgery, according to the Hartselle Police Department. John Jacob Holland, 37, was charged with first-degree elder abuse and second-degree domestic violence and booked into Morgan County Jail in lieu of a $60,000 bond, according to jail records. On June 8, Hartselle police detectives began investigating an elder abuse case and determined the victim had sustained serious injuries allegedly inflicted by Holland, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After interviewing the victim and witnesses, investigators obtained an arrest warrant for Holland, who was taken into custody during a traffic stop Monday, according to police. Holland previously pleaded guilty in 2018 to second-degree assault. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison but placed on probation the same day. According to an affidavit signed by a Hartselle police officer, Holland shot a man in the shoulder with a 9mm handgun on Aug. 25, 2015. "(The victim) stated Holland stood at his passenger side door pointing a black handgun at him," the affidavit said. "(The victim) stated Holland continued to aim the gun at him and yelled at him to get on the ground." Holland then struck the man in the head with the gun multiple times and kicked him in the side of the face before fleeing, according to the affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "(The victim) said he did not realize he had been shot in the shoulder until he saw the large amount of blood collecting on his clothing," the affidavit said. The man was transported to Huntsville Hospital's Surgical Trauma ICU, where doctors said he had a shattered collarbone, the affidavit said. Holland was also charged with second-degree assault after he allegedly cut a man in an altercation, but that charge was later dismissed at the request of the prosecution. wesley.tomlinson@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2442. Adolfo Urso, Italys industry minister, told fashion trade bodies during a meeting that a few unlawful businesses in the fashion supply chain have tainted the image of 'Made in Italy', according to sources cited by Reuters. Last week LVMHs Loro Piana cashmere brand was put under judicial administration for a year for allegedly subcontracting production to suppliers that allegedly exploited workers. The administration seeks to address the shortfalls in its supply chain. According to the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre, Loro Piana said: In breach of its legal and contractual obligations, the supplier did not inform Loro Piana of the existence of these subcontractors. Loro Piana was made aware of this situation on 20 May, and, as a result, the maison terminated all relations with the concerned supplier in less than 24 hours. Loro Piana firmly condemns any illegal practices and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and compliance with all applicable regulations throughout its supply chain. The Reuters report says this is the fifth luxury brand to undergo such court monitoring in Italy since early 2024. "We cannot allow the illicit behaviour of a few to compromise the reputation of the entire sector, penalising many virtuous companies and, consequently, our Made in Italy brand, which is a symbol of excellence and quality," Urso said. The ministry is working on a measure to certify the sustainability and legality of companies in the supply chain in advance, he added, so that brands do not have to answer for the conduct of their suppliers or subcontractors. "Italy mulls certification to safeguard fashion sector amid scandals" was originally created and published by Just Style, a GlobalData owned brand. Judging by the allegations in a lawsuit filed against Harvard College by a former MBA student at Harvard Business School, the university deserves all the angst and harassment it is getting from the Trump Administration. Yoav Segev, a former Boston Consulting Group consultant who graduated with his MBA in May, accuses Harvard of failing to protect him from an antisemitic assault on campus and then obstructed the investigation that followed. His 124-page lawsuit is filled with the kind of details that would convince most that Harvard has a real problem when it comes to tolerating antisemitic behavior on its campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his lawsuit, Segeve describes the Harvard campus as an out-of-control and hostile educational environment in the fall of 2023 when Pro-Palestinian protesters paraded against Israels attacks on Gaza. In recounting the details of the alleged assault, his lawyers wrote that Mr. Segev was physically assaulted by an antisemitic mob of students and student-employees on October 18, 2023. As videos of the attack show, dozens of rabid protesters surrounded Mr. Segev, grabbing and pushing him, and using keffiyehs to block him as he tried to escape and as he implored them to leave him alone. During the attack, the mob repeatedly yelled Shame! in Mr. Segevs face for being Jewish and Israeli. SEGEVE PROVOKED THE INCIDENT BY RECORDING THE FACES OF PROTESTERS Yoav Segev Harvard MBA Yoav Segev According to Segeves lawyers, this malicious, violent, and antisemitic conduct violated several University policiessuch as its anti-discrimination and anti-bullying policiesand it prompted criminal charges against two of the student-employees who incited the attack. Nonetheless, Harvard refused to take any reasonable action to punish the assailants or to redress the victim, Mr. Segev. Segeve conveniently leaves out one vital fact about the incident: It started only after he began videotaping protesters faces while they lie on the ground in a protest. In response, several protesters held up keffiyehs to block his phone camera. They told him repeatedly to exit and turn around. As the protesters surrounded Segev to force him away, some made physical contact with him, and one pushed Segev away. Segev pressed forward against the protester who was trying to block him. He said dont grab me, and the protesters said were not grabbing you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, two Harvard students were singled out for their behavior during the incident. Harvard Law School graduate Ibrahim I. Bharmal and Harvard Divinity School graduate Elom K. Tettey-Tamaklo, who were charged with assault and battery, yet evaded criminal proceedings as well as a court-mandated apology requested by the District Attorney. A judge ruled in April that the pair had to complete anger management programming, a Harvard course on negotiation, and 80 hours of community service. HARVARDS INACTION AND INDIFFERENCE Segev convincingly argues that Harvard took no meaningful disciplinary action against the pairnot even a slap on the wrist with a suspension from classes. In fact, argues Segev, Harvard seems to have rewarded them in the aftermath of the protest. Tettey-Tamaklo, who was a residential proctor in a freshman dorm at the time of the confrontation, graduated from Divinity School in May as a class marshal, while Bharmal, then a teaching fellow at the Law School, was awarded a $65,000 fellowship from the Harvard Law Review in April. Tettey-Tamaklo is currently doing conflict management training for peacekeepers in Africa, according to his LinkedIn profile. Bharmal describes himself on LinkedIn as a human rights advocate, migration specialist, and writer. No one doubts for a second that Harvard would have taken swift, aggressive, and public action to enforce its policies had the victim been one of Harvards favored minorities, Segevs lawyers argue. A recent report found that Harvard has attempted to silence twenty-two scholars speech through petitions, investigations, and disciplinary actions and that Harvard has also sanctioned at least six students for their expression during a campus controversy. And that aggressive disciplinary enforcement was for expression deemed offensivenot for assaults, like Mr. Segev experienced. Yet Harvard refused to enforce its policies in this case, at all, simply because Mr. Segev is Jewish and does not identify as a member of one of Harvards favored minority groups. Segevs lawsuit then details a number of actions which make Harvard look incredibly bad. Harvards antisemitic discrimination against Mr. Segev is far more sinister than inaction and indifference, his lawyers claim. Harvard did everything it could to defend, protect, and reward the assailants; to impede the criminal investigation; and to prevent Mr. Segev from obtaining administrative relief from the University. HARVARD INTENTIONALLY OBSTRUCTED THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Harvards antisemitic intent is obvious. Several of its faculty publicly supported the attackers and tried to blame the victim (because, the faculty said, his Jewish presence was threatening to other students). And, of course, hundreds of rabidly anti-Israel students disrupting campus life pressured the Harvard administration. Ultimately, and shamefully, the University kowtowed to the antisemitic mob it had allowed to take over its campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one, Harvard intentionally obstructed the criminal investigation into the attack and assisted the assailants. According to the Assistant District Attorney prosecuting the case, she was shocked that Harvard had essentially refused to investigate, even after she directly requested information from the University. In addition to refusing to even assist the local prosecutors investigation, Harvard directly instructed its campus officer to stop investigating the attack and then retaliated against him by removing him from the investigation. Segevs allegations get even more severe, claiming that Harvard has misled the court, Congress and himself for nearly two years. Immediately after the attack, Harvard invented a facially absurd, unwritten policy out of whole cloth, claiming that it could not discipline student-employee-assailants while there was an ongoing criminal investigationeven though there was clear, dispositive video evidence of the attack and such a policy would reward criminals, vis-a-vis less serious offenders who have faced school discipline. HARVARD SAYS IT ACTED WITH DEEP CONCERN FOR SUPPORTING OUR JEWISH STUDENTS Then, while it delayed by relying on this invented policy, Harvards attorney represented to Judge Stearns in this Court2 and Harvards President Claudine Gay testified in Congress under oath that Harvard would complete a disciplinary process after the criminal process concluded and before the student-employees graduated. Yet, despite both Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) and Harvard Divinity School (HDS) having declared the criminal proceedings to be over, Harvard has never subjected the assailants to discipline, as it represented it would do. To the contrary, the assailantswho had been charged with crimes and egregiously violated school policy by attacking a fellow studentwere allowed to graduate in good standing. Segev is asking the court for a jury trial and compensatory, consequential, and punitive damages along with his attorney fees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Harvard spokesman Jason A. Newton said that Harvard remains committed to combating antisemitism adn enforcing our anti-harassment and anti-discrimination rules and policies at all times. Harvard has acted with deep concern for supporting our Jewish and Israeli students and will defend the University against these claims. The post Harvard MBA Lawsuit: How Guilty Is Harvard Of Antisemitism? appeared first on Poets&Quants. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) was escorted off stage briefly Wednesday after an event was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters. Hawley appeared at the Axios News Shapers forum in Washington, D.C., and was being interviewed by reporter Stef Kight when a demonstrator began shouting toward the Missouri Republican. Josh Hawley cannot possibly care about people in this country, the protester said, bringing the conference to a halt, because he is supporting a war of starvation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your career is built on the suffering of children, another protester interjected. As more people began shouting, Kight told Hawley, Lets leave the stage. Are you sure? he asked, while still seated. Kight also urged viewers to Please allow us to do our job, later telling Hawley it was the first protest of the day. As the demonstrator continued shouting, the Axios reporter stood up and escorted the senator off the stage. The activists in the room held up signs reading STOP STARVING GAZA and U.S. FUNDS GENOCIDE, according to a statement from Code Pink, a grassroots anti-war and social justice organization developed in response to the Iraq War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We appreciate and understand that people feel passionately about some of these issues, Kight said after the two left the stage for a brief time. We do ask that you be respectful and allow us to continue our conversation. Please welcome back to the stage Sen. Josh Hawley. Hawley returned to a round of applause, brushing off the protest as just another day in the Senate. Palestinians are starving for one reason: Israels siege, fully backed by the U.S. and its allies, Code Pink organizer Olivia DiNucci said in a statement. We wont let lawmakers ignore this genocide while pretending to care about American families. The disruption comes amid escalating tensions in Gaza and stalled ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. The latest developments out of the Gaza Strip show Palestinians are being driven toward starvation, more than 100 charity and human rights organizations reported, according to The Associated Press. Advertisement 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. Olena Duma, Head of Ukraines Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA), has expressed her support for a recent law restricting the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Source: Duma on Telegram Quote from Duma: "The state has taken the right steps. Order is being restored in the country. I support draft law No. 12414. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The anti-corruption institutions will operate free of Russian influence everything must be cleansed of it. State, anti-corruption, and law enforcement bodies must be united and work in synergy. In 2023, I took over an agency that had an extremely bad reputation. We faced a complete lack of international technical assistance and a blocked system for managing Russian corporate rights. Later, certain individuals began to push for a pseudo-reform of ARMA, despite the fact that my team had already introduced transparent rules and procedures, and a government draft law had been prepared. This pseudo-reform was promoted by some very familiar faces who have always manipulated our international partners, misinforming them, undermining Ukraine and portraying it as a corrupt state. Why? To secure more funding for themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Duma emphasised that ARMA is an integral part of the anti-corruption infrastructure that Ukraine has established at the request of the EU and its international partners, and that ARMA continues to carry out its mission despite all attempts to discredit it. "Today, Ukraines law enforcement and anti-corruption systems are stronger than ever, and I am confident that true justice and the rule of law will prevail over all manipulations and distortions," Duma said. Background: On 22 July, the website of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) was updated with the information that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had signed bill No. 12414, a law that effectively places NABU and SAPO under the authority of the prosecutor general. Protests against the passing of the bill were held in a number of Ukrainian cities on Tuesday evening. The American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine has stated that it was disappointed to see the vote in Ukraines parliament dismantle key safeguards protecting the independence of NABU and SAPO. In a statement, AmCham said: "Rule of law, real and effective judicial reform, fair justice, a transparent selection of judges at all levels and adherence to the independence of the National Bank, the Antimonopoly Committee and the anti-corruption agencies are among the key strategic steps among AmCham's 10 Priorities for Ukraine's Economic Recovery." Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A 38-year-old man who drove drunk in Pierce County and caused a three-vehicle wreck that killed a man from Buckley on his way to work has been sentenced to eight years, two months in prison. Matthew F. Geiger of Elma pleaded guilty in Superior Court to vehicular homicide for the June 5, 2024 wreck at the interchange for state routes 167 and 410 near Sumner that killed Jesse James Schweickert. Court records showed Geiger submitted to a preliminary breath test after the crash that showed a result of 0.157. The legal blood-alcohol limit in Washington is 0.08. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Geiger had no prior criminal convictions, according to court records. Judge Susan Adams on Friday handed down the punishment, which was near the high end of the standard sentencing range of six-and-a-half to eight-and-a-half years in prison. The Washington State Patrol determined Geiger was driving north on state Route 167 in a Chevrolet Blazer SUV and was taking the ramp to eastbound state Route 410, according to the probable cause document. One person died from a head-on crash June 5, 2024, in Sumner. Geiger failed to negotiate a curve, drove into a grassy median and onto the ramp Schweickert was taking to get to southbound state Route 167, colliding with the drivers side of his Honda Pilot. After the initial impact, a woman driving a Ford F-150 hit Geigers SUV, causing it to roll. Troopers found Schweickert slumped over in his vehicle. A Port of Seattle police officer was performing CPR, but Schweickert, 46, was pronounced dead at the scene. According to Schweickerts obituary, he worked as a wastewater-treatment plant operator with the City of Tacoma and was on his way to work when the collision occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends and members of Schweickerts family submitted victim-impact statements with the court ahead of Geigers sentencing. They described the victim as a beloved father to two children who was married to the love of his life and enjoyed spending time with his family and his dog, Josh. Jesses sudden, tragic death changed everything in our lives and I dont know how to express the devastation and suffering of losing him, Schweickerts younger sister said in a handwritten letter filed in court. In other news from Superior Court Tacoma driver sentenced for running light at 6th Ave, killing woman in DUI crash A 27-year-old man was sentenced Friday to seven years, one month in prison for driving drunk in Tacoma, running a red light and striking a car going through the intersection, killing its driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noah Steven Cadaram pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide for the April 20, 2024 collision at Sixth Avenue and South Alder Street in Central Tacoma. Brenna Gonzalez, 45 of Tacoma, died in the wreck. Judge Stanley Rumbaugh handed down Cadarams punishment, giving him a mid-range sentence. Cadaram had no prior criminal convictions. After the wreck, he told Tacoma police he had been coming from the Tacoma Comedy Club and had consumed one 20-ounce beer. His blood was drawn, and toxicology results showed he had a blood-alcohol content of 0.17, which is more than twice the legal limit. According to court records, Tacoma Police Department detectives determined Cadaram was driving north on Alder Street in a 2010 Hyundai Elantra when he entered the Sixth Avenue intersection at high speed where he struck a 2003 Toyota Camry going west. Documents filed by Cadarams attorney, Bryan Hershman, ahead of the sentencing hearing showed that Cadaram had suffered a traumatic brain injury in 2022 from being struck with a skateboard. A doctor specializing in neurology wrote in a letter that the injury can contribute to increased use of alcohol, decreased impulse control and changes in decision making. 2nd defendant sentenced for role in Tacoma womans retaliatory murder A second man charged in connection to the murder of a 31-year-old Tacoma woman who was shot because her killer believed she had cooperated with a rape investigation involving his nephew has been sentenced to 17 months in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apelu Sone Tauanuu, 34, pleaded guilty Thursday to first-degree rendering criminal assistance for his part in the Dec. 18, 2023 killing of Ngaire Tusi, a mother of seven who was killed at Oakland Madrona Park in South Tacoma. The man convicted of Tusis murder, Muhammad Takseem Salanoa, was sentenced July 9 to 23 years in prison. According to court records, Tauanuu, who was reportedly in the same friend group as Salanoa and Tusi, drove Tusi to the park where she was shot. Tacoma Police Department detectives discovered text messages between Tusi and Tauanuu from when he picked her up in his black Lexus, and phone records showed him arriving at the park at 2:33 a.m., shortly before a surveillance camera picked up the sound of a gunshot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tusis mother told police that her daughter had been accused of being a snitch and providing information about 22-year-old James Salanoa, who was wanted for a gunpoint rape and kidnapping that occurred in late November 2023. James Salanoa was fatally shot by Sheriffs Office deputies on Nov. 28, 2023, following a police pursuit from Puyallup. Prosecutor Mary Robnett determined July 8 that it was a justified police shooting. Tauanuu previously pleaded guilty Dec. 12 to first-degree murder, but he was allowed to withdraw that plea under the terms of a plea agreement, according to court records, which included the recommendation for a 17-month sentence, the high end of the standard sentencing range for similar defendants convicted of first-degree rendering criminal assistance. Health care workers end strike in Duluth, but still lack agreement with Essentia originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Hundreds of unionized Essentia Health employees are ending their unfair labor practice strike in the Duluth area this week, though no agreement has been reached, the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) announced Tuesday. The group of striking health care providers includes more than 300 nurses and 400 advanced practice providers who say they've walked off the job to "expose Essentia executives' refusal to negotiate in good faith." The workers also accuse their employer of numerous unfair labor practices, including threats of violence against striking workers, and interference in union activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two-week strike by nurses will end on Wednesday. The 13-day advanced practice provider strike ended on Tuesday morning. Duluth-areas are ending their two-week strike.Minnesota Nurses Association The MNA has called off the strike after Essentia agreed to combine four groups of clinic nurses into a single negotiating block, as well as new negotiating dates for first-contract workers. The single unit of workers at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Street clinics, plus Superior nurses, will resume negotiations on July 28. Workers at the Solvay Hospice House and Miller Hill Surgery Center will continue to negotiate separately. However, Essentia says it has not changed its position regarding its ongoing appeal that seeks to break up the advanced practice providers group, which includes workers at 69 facilities across northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The MNA leaderships unilateral move to withdraw the [advanced practice providers] strike notice comes despite no change in position from Essentia regarding the importance of the legal review process before the National Labor Relations Board," Essentia representatives wrote in a statement. Negotiations with advanced practice providers have stalled as Essentia waits for a ruling from the National Labor Relations Board, though the MNA says that the appeal "does not exempt Essentia from bargaining" in the meantime. Essentia has not agreed to meet with advanced practice providers, an MNA representative told Bring Me The News on Tuesday. Over the weekend, the MNA reported "threatening and retaliatory behavior" by a "direct supervisor" from Essentia, who allegedly said "he wanted to take his paintball gun and shoot nurses on strike" and that he would "run down picketers now." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to Bring Me The News over the weekend, Essentia said it plans to "thoroughly review and take appropriate action" regarding those allegations. On Tuesday, the MNA added that the "unfair labor practice charges filed by MNA against Essentia remain active and unresolved." "These charges will not be withdrawn until Essentia shows demonstrated action to resolve them," the nurses union said. "Hospital executives must be held accountable for retaliation and union-busting tactics that undermine workers' efforts." Related: Striking Essentia nurses in Duluth claim 'threats of violence' from supervisor This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared. 119 countries are at risk of a mosquito-borne epidemic, according to recent reports from the World Health Organization. An unusually large outbreak of the Chikungunya virus has been spreading since early 2025, mirroring a similar spread that occurred in 2004 and 2005. The viral outbreak began in Indian Ocean countries both in the mid-2000s and now. It has since spread to surrounding continents and has the potential to reach the United States. Islands in the Indian Ocean have been particularly hit hard by the Chikungunya virus, with La Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius seeing major outbreaks. World Health Organization medical officer Diana Rojas Alvarez told Reuters that an estimated one-third of La Reunion's population has been infected with Chikungunya. While Chikungunya is seldom fatal, it can cause long-term disability issues, high fever, and severe joint pain. There is currently no known treatment for the disease, which usually clears up after seven to 10 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chikungunya virus is carried by Aedes mosquitos, including tiger mosquitos, which can be found throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and The Americas. The Center for Disease Control claims that the last chikungunya case in the United States was reported in 2019, but a large outbreak could see the disease transmitted especially across the southern states. Since May, there have been 800 imported cases of chikungunya in France, leading the WHO to raise concerns about a potential further widespread outbreak. The organization is asking people to help prevent the spread by wearing bug spray and long sleeves in areas that may be exposed to these dangerous mosquitos. There are also two vaccines available to those in countries at a higher risk of exposure, including Kenya, Brazil, Thailand, and the Philippians. Health Officials Sound Alarm on Spread of Potentially Debilitating, Mosquito-Borne Virus first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 HONOLULU (KHON2) Families are encouraged to apply for SUN Bucks before its too late. SUN Bucks program helps Hawaiis keiki eat healthy this summer The program helps families with school-aged children buy food during the summer. The deadline to apply for the summer EBT program is Aug. 3. SUN Bucks will provide $177 to every eligible child in food benefits. Who automatically qualifies? Some children automatically qualify for SUN Bucks without needing to apply: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Children in households that participated in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) from July 1, 2023, to Aug. 4, 2024. Foster children, or children identified by their school as homeless, migrant, or runaway. Children attending a school that offers the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and are approved for free or reduced-price school meals. Exceptions include Head Start and pre-K students in NSLP-participating programs. Who needs to apply? Other families need to apply for SUN Bucks if: Their children attend a school where all meals are free, but the family did not apply for or was not approved for free or reduced-price meals. Their children attend a school operating NSLP but were not approved for free or reduced-price meals during the school year and might now qualify based on household income. Were proud of the progress so far but we also know many families still need support, said Department of Human Services Director Yamane. If your child was approved for free or reduced-price meals, or your family received SNAP or TANF, youre already eligible and dont need to apply. But if youre not sure, dont wait. Who needs to apply? Other families need to apply for SUN Bucks if: Their children attend a school where all meals are free, but the family did not apply for or was not approved for free or reduced-price meals. Their children attend a school operating NSLP but were not approved for free or reduced-price meals during the school year and might now qualify based on household income. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUN Bucks is a reminder that when we invest in our keiki, we invest in the future of our state. These benefits dont just help families they strengthen our local economy by putting dollars directly into our grocery stores, farmers markets, and food systems, said Governor Josh Green. This dual effort by the state of Hawaii and the U.S. Department of Agriculture aims to provide children with access to nutritious meals in the summer when school meals are limited. In Hawaii, we care for one another we malama our keiki, our kupuna and our ohana, said First Lady Jaime Kanani Green. SUN Bucks reflects those values. Its about ensuring every child has what they need nutritionally to grow and thrive not just during the school year, but all year long. No child in Hawaii should ever go hungry and this program helps us live up to that kuleana. Cards will be mailed to eligible households, and the SUN Bucks card can be used at any store that accepts EBT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii DHS issues fraud alert regarding fraudulent calls For more information, visit the website or call 1-888-975-7328. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) A court in Vancouver opened a hearing on Wednesday to determine whether a man accused of killing 11 people by ramming an SUV into a crowd during a Filipino heritage festival in April was mentally fit to stand trial. Adam Kai-Ji Lo, 30, was originally charged with eight counts of second-degree murder in the tragedy that struck the Lapu Lapu Day Street festival in Vancouver, British Columbia. Dozens of people were also injured. Police say six of the injured remain in hospital in stable condition. Vancouver police laid three additional charges on Tuesday, bringing the total number of counts to 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators had previously ruled out terrorism and said Lo had a history of mental health issues. Witnesses at the time described narrowly jumping out of the way of the speeding vehicle as bodies flew through the air. Provincial Court Judge Reg Harris has ordered a ban on publicizing any evidence presented during the hearing. Lo, who is being held in a forensic psychiatric facility, attended previous hearings by a video link. He was in the courtroom on Wednesday but watched the proceedings from behind a plexiglass barrier. At times he sat with his hands folded in his lap or resting them by his side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Wednesday, prosecutor Michaela Donnelly said a decision expected Friday from the Supreme Court of Canada could affect how lower courts view the standard of fitness to stand trial. The law might be changed overnight, said Donnelly. That raises the question should we even start. Harris said that since witnesses were ready to testify, it made sense to him that the hearing continue. Isabel Grant, a professor at the Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, said the purpose of the hearing is to determine if the accused is able to participate in their trial. The test in Canada for unfitness is whether (the person) is unable, on account of mental disorder, to conduct a defense at any stage of the proceedings, said Grant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Key questions, she said, are whether the suspect can understand the nature of the proceedings, do they understand the consequences of the proceedings and are they able to communicate with their attorneys. If the person is found fit, a trial can proceed. A person found unfit to stand trial would be held at a forensic psychiatric institution where they would undergo psychiatric treatment with a view of rendering (them) fit to stand trial, Grant said. A review board would determine if the treatment the suspect received made them fit to stand trial. The person could also spend the rest of their life in a psychiatric facility. It is quite possible you would have someone found unfit, and then later fit, she said. The hearing continues on Thursday. Another Milwaukee summer day, another triple-digit heat index. Temperatures in Milwaukee could reach as high as 94 degrees July 23 with a heat index of 105 degrees, and the heat is likely to stick around tomorrow. The National Weather Service forecasts a high in the low 90s and a heat index of around 100 for July 24. We currently have some storms across western Wisconsin right now, and that is potentially going to impact some of the heat risk in other parts of the state, said Milwaukee-Sullivan National Weather Service meteorologist Aidan Kuroski. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But southeast Wisconsin may not see the same relief. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Milwaukee from 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. July 23, and it may issue another for July 24. The current trend suggests that far southeast Wisconsin would be trending toward another heat advisory, although thats currently not in effect right now, Kuroski said. The National Weather Service will decide whether to issue a heat advisory for July 24 later in the day July 23. Temperatures are expected to cool as storms roll into the Milwaukee area toward the end of the week. But the heat may return next week, with highs in the high 80s or low 90s forecast for July 27 and July 28, Kuroski said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to air temperature, the National Weather Service also tracks the "heat index," which combines air temperature and relative humidity to measure what the heat feels like to the human body. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: heat advisory issued for Milwaukee as heat index could hit 105 While Delaware has enjoyed a stretch of seasonably cool weather recently, thats about to come to an end. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Kent and Sussex counties and an extreme heat watch for New Castle County, as the heat dome is expected to impact Delaware on July 25. The heat advisories and extreme heat watch will be in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 25. The state will experience dangerously hot conditions with temperatures in the mid- to upper 90s and heat indexes up to 106. (3/3) Heat continues to build on Thursday, and then it will be hot and humid on Friday. Heat Advisories may be needed for parts of the area Friday. Afternoon & evening showers & thunderstorms possible. Our forecast discussion can be found at:https://t.co/QVsKRIIf5G pic.twitter.com/eFW5By5KXE NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) July 23, 2025 What is a heat dome? According to the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service, a heat dome occurs when a persistent region of high pressure traps heat over a particular area, and it can linger for days to weeks. Heat domes are typically linked to the behavior of the jet stream. When the jet stream moves north, it slows down and can sink, which lowers humidity. This allows the sun to create progressively hotter conditions on the ground. When will the heat dome break? The good news is that the extreme heat will not last in Delaware. According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are likely in the afternoon and evening on July 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The July 26 forecast is calling for a high of 90 with a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening. On July 27, highs will reach the mid- to upper 80s. What is a heat advisory? When is it issued? A heat advisory is issued within 12 hours of extreme heat conditions. Typically, the heat index will be above 100 degrees, and the nighttime air temperature will not drop below 75 degrees. However, the criteria vary by area. For Delaware, the criterion for a heat advisory is a heat index above 105 degrees for two or more hours. There are four advisories for heat, according to the National Weather Service: Excessive heat outlooks: These are issued when there is a potential for excessive heat within the next three to seven days. It gives people time to prepare for the weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heat advisory: A heat advisory is issued within 12 hours of extreme heat conditions. Typically, the heat index will be above 100 degrees and the nighttime air temperature will not drop below 75 degrees. However, the criteria vary by area. Excessive heat watch: Heat watches are issued when conditions are favorable for excessive heat in the next 24 to 72 hours. Excessive heat warning: The warning is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. What is the heat index?: How to stay safe during excessive heat warnings in Delaware What is heat index? We've all heard: "It's not the heat; it's the humidity." Well, it's not just a cliche; there is truth to it. According to the National Weather Service, the heat index represents the temperature that feels like it to the human body when relative humidity is combined with air temperature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Basically, when the body sweats, the perspiration evaporates, cooling the body. When the humidity is high, the sweat doesn't evaporate as quickly, and the body doesn't cool itself as well. Therefore, the body feels warmer. The heat index represents the heat you're feeling outside. There are four classifications for heat index, according to the National Weather Service: Caution: When the heat index is 80-90 degrees, prolonged exposure to heat and physical activity can cause the body to feel fatigued. Extreme caution: When the heat index is 90-103 degrees, the body may feel heat stroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion with prolonged exposure and physical activity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danger: When the heat index is 103-124 degrees, heat cramps or heat exhaustion is likely and heat stroke is possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity. Extreme danger: When the heat index is 125 degrees or higher, heat stroke is likely. Heat Index calculator Here's a chart to help you determine the heat index. You can also use this heat index calculator. Heat index calculator What are heat-related illnesses? During extremely hot and humid weather, the body is challenged to regulate its own temperature. When the body struggles too much, several heat-related illnesses can occur. According to the National Weather Service, here's what to watch for: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heat cramps: Heat cramps are the first sign of heat-related illnesses. The symptoms include muscle cramps and spasms, typically in the legs or abdomen. You should apply pressure on the cramping muscle or gently massage the muscle. The person should also try to sip water unless they are nauseous. If the cramps last more than an hour, the person should seek medical attention. Heat exhaustion: A person who has heat exhaustion will sweat heavily, be tired, cool and clammy, have a weak, fast pulse, have muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, headaches and may faint. Move the person to a cool area, loosen their clothes, and apply cool, wet compresses or have them sit in a cool bath. Offer water. If a person vomits more than once or symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention. Heat stroke: The symptoms of heat stroke include a body temperature above 103 degrees, a throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, fainting or a loss of consciousness. Call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately. How to stay cool during a heat wave According to the World Health Organization, here are some tips to stay cool. Use light and loose-fitting clothing and bed linens. Take cool showers or baths. Wet your skin using a damp cloth, a spray bottle, or wet clothing. Drink water regularly aim for 1 cup per hour and 2 to 3 liters per day. Avoid alcohol and too much caffeine. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap and sunglasses outside. How to stay safe in the heat The World Health Organization suggests these tips: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keep your body cool and hydrated. Keep your home cool. Avoid going outside during the heat of the day. If you go outside, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. If you must do strenuous activity, do it either in the morning or late afternoon. Who is most vulnerable in the heat? According to the National Weather Service, heat is among the leading weather-related killers. These are the groups most impacted by high temperatures: Pregnant women are also at higher risk. Extreme heat events have been associated with adverse birth outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and infant mortality, as well as congenital cataracts. Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death, as their bodies are less able to adapt to heat than are adults. Older adults, particularly those with preexisting diseases, who take certain medications, live alone or with limited mobility and are exposed to extreme heat, can experience multiple adverse effects. People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have serious health problems during a heat wave than healthy people. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Heat dome approaches Delaware. Heat advisories, watches issued JP Morgan has secured the top spot as the leading mergers and acquisitions (M&A) financial adviser in the retail sector, based on both value and volume, in the first half (H1) of 2025. GlobalData, which is the parent of Retail Insight Network, ranked advisers by the value and volume of M&A deals on which they advised. JP Morgan achieved the highest rank for deal value, having advised on six transactions totalling $42.3bn in H1 2025. GlobalData lead analyst Aurojyoti Bose stated: For JP Morgan, there was an improvement in the total volume and value of deals advised by it in H1 2025 compared to H1 2024. However, the improvement was very prominent in terms of value, as all six deals advised by it during H1 2025 were billion-dollar deals. Among these deals, JP Morgans involvement in the $23.7bn deal for acquisition of Walgreens Boots Alliance by Sycamore Partners was pivotal for it in securing the top spot by value. Goldman Sachs followed JP Morgan in terms of deal value, advising on transactions worth a total of $30bn. Citi followed closely at $29.2bn, while UBS and Wells Fargo advised on deals valued at $28bn and $26.3bn, respectively. In terms of deal volume, UBS secured second position with six deals. Bank of America, Rothschild & Co and Ernst & Young each advised on four deals, securing their positions among the top financial advisers for retail sector M&A in H1 2025. GlobalDatas league tables are based on the real-time tracking of thousands of company websites, advisory company websites and other reliable sources available on the secondary domain. A dedicated team of analysts monitors all these sources to gather in-depth details for each deal, including adviser names. To ensure further robustness to the data, the company also seeks submissions of deals from leading advisers. "JP Morgan tops retail M&A financial advisory rankings in H1 2025" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. MAHOMET, Ill. (WCIA) One Central Illinois town has helped people in their community save $2 million on electric rates. As temperatures continue to rise, so does the cost of electricity. But, twelve years ago, Mahomet voted to adopt an aggregation program which now helps residents save money on electricity. CU Tango invites community to performances, events throughout the week Communities get together as one big pool, and then they go out to bid on electricity supply rates, Mahomets Village Administrator, Patrick Brown, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois passed legislation for the aggregation programs in 2009. Then, voters in Mahomet passed a referendum for it in 2012. Electricity rates have been extremely volatile the past few years, Brown said. We used to have contracts that would be two or three year long, contracts for fixed rates. Now, the contracts have been more like six months to a year type of contract because the volatility in the pricing. Decatur City Council approves demolition, repairs of multiple structures People get three weeks to opt out of the aggregation program after getting new rates from the village. Mahomets aggregated rates rose in June, causing some people to leave and go with Amerens rate. However, some people ran into a problem: Ameren raised its rate higher than what they were paying through Mahomets aggregation program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You know we usually get a lot of residents call in and say How can I get back in,' Brown said. Jessica Trefzger, is a local business owner. I opted out just briefly before it began because we didnt have a lot of notice. So, because I didnt know what Ameren was going to do, I wanted to wait and see. I regret doing that; I should have just stayed in the aggregation, Trefzger said. Piatt Co. couple saves substance abuse recovery program Brown said that for the most part, rates arent all that different. The closest thing I can compare it to is when people give you advice on the stock market. You invest, and you have ups and downs, but you stay in it for the long haul, Brown said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the end of 2024 to now, the aggregated price per kilowatt jumped two cents while the market price increased by four. The difference may seem small, but local businesses have felt it. Since I had opted out of the aggregation at first, because I didnt know what the price would be, Im a month behind, Ive gotten to experience the increase, Trefzger, owner of The Hive, said. Im very excited to get back on the aggregation as soon as possible. Brown said he expects rates to decline toward the end of summer whether you are part of an aggregation program or not. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Happy Wednesday! The summer ridge is still firmly in charge in the Ozarks, bringing the heat. Temperatures are expected to remain hot in the low to mid-90s through the weekend. Rain chances are slim, but a few showers may become possible beginning Friday. Download our KOLR 10 weather app Today will be in the mid-90s around the Ozarks with a southwest wind around 10 to 15 mph. Bottom line, not much is going to change from yesterday to today! Temperatures overnight will be warm in the mid-70s. Thursday is overall unchanged from Wednesday, although maybe a degree or two warmer. The south wind will have relaxed some as well, and our humidity may not be as high as it has been recently. Still, plan for hot and sticky conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first signs of change arrive on Friday. An area of unsettled weather with a cold front will move around the summer ridge (the heat dome) before shifting east through Missouri and into Illinois through Sunday. This should weaken the ridge somewhat and juice up the atmosphere with moisture. The best rain chances appear to be across Central and Eastern Missouri as things stand now. At this stage, this looks like only a small speed bump in what will overall be a hot and mostly dry pattern through the end of the month. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. Heathrow has said it is willing to build a shorter, cheaper third runway following an outcry from airlines over cost. Europes busiest airport will indicate its readiness to negotiate with carriers over runway options when it submits a formal pitch to ministers next week, said Thomas Woldbye, the airports chief executive. While Heathrow is still expected to make the case for a full-length runway that would encroach on the M25 and cost more than 60bn, according to some estimates, Mr Woldbye said the proposals will feature as many options as is possible at this time. The flexibility marks a change of tack after he said earlier this year that ripping up a two-mile stretch of Britains busiest motorway could not be avoided. The turnaround follows a campaign led by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, which have accused the airport of favouring a gold-plated expansion plan that could see departure fees swell to as much as 100 a passenger for long-haul flights. Mr Woldbye said: Length of runway is something we will be discussing with airlines. It does not necessarily have to be final in the plan next week. We want to build what our airline customers want to use. Theyre the ones flying aircraft from the runway, were not. If they can live with different configurations, well be discussing that. Theres no reason to build something we dont need. There are lots of uncertainties in this project, unknown things that need to be decided. It will always be like that with a project of this size at this stage of development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Woldbye said the main proviso for any revisions is that Heathrow must have a certain length of runway in order to get the right capacity on it. The Government has set a deadline of next Thursday for the submission of proposals from the airport, which attracted 84m passengers last year and is operating at the limits of its existing landing strips. Plans envisage lifting annual capacity to 140m. Surinder Arora, the billionaire hotel entrepreneur, is understood to be drawing up a rival plan that would undercut Heathrows expansion cost by as much as a third. A computer generated image released by Heathrow airport shows how the M25 could be rerouted - AFP/Getty Images Mr Arora, part of the Heathrow Reimagined campaign that also includes BA and Virgin, has been working with US engineering giant Bechtel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has been encouraged by comments from Mike Kane, the aviation minister, who said last month that he was open to alternative proposals. While Mr Woldbye declined to comment on Mr Aroras plans, he said compensation costs for people whose houses are in the way of the runway are often grossly underestimated. He said: This is a hugely complicated project that involves not just the runway, but all the investments around it in terms of making sure the communities are treated right and that all the requirements being put in by society are fulfilled. Heathrows room for manoeuvre is limited by the need to stick with a blueprint enshrined in an Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) adopted by Parliament in 2018. Any radical departure from the ANPS would permit new challenges to the runway and threaten Labours commitment to completing the planning process before the next election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ANPS stipulates that the new strip should have a length of at least 3,500m and be able to handle 260,000 extra flights. However, one measuring two miles could accommodate 90pc of services, according to airline bosses. Mr Woldbye said ministers must weigh up exactly what sort of expanded Heathrow was required, taking into account the implications for planning and the targeted opening of the new runway by 2035. He said: This is a proposal that the Government has asked for. We need to hear back how they would like to take that forward. Time has moved on so there may be necessary adjustments. That is one of the things we will discuss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Mr Woldbye was also quizzed on why he slept through a fire that led to a blackout at Heathrow in March, claiming his absence had no bearing on how the incident was handled. He told the BBC: I would of course have liked that to have played out differently on a personal level. On an operational level Im satisfied that our crisis management procedures were in place. An organisation like ours has to be able to manage whether the captain is on the bridge or not. And in this particular case we took the right decisions and our safety was prioritised. 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 messages Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sent to a March Signal chat regarding the U.S. plans to bomb Houthi targets in Yemen came from an email labeled SECRET/NOFORN, the Pentagons independent watchdog was told, as reported by The Washington Post. People familiar with the report told The Washington Post that the attack plans had initially been shared with more than a dozen Defense officials via a classified email sent over a classified system by U.S. Central Command head Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla. Hegseth then posted the details in the unclassified Signal group chat directly before Washington launched its attacks March 15. He also shared the information in a separate chat that included his wife, brother and personal attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The military labels material SECRET if unauthorized disclosure could potentially cause serious damage to national security, while NOFORN means the email was not meant for anyone who is a foreign national. The reported revelations, which come as the Defense Department inspector generals office is looking into the matter, seems to contradict the Trump administrations repeated, adamant claims that no classified information was shared in the Signal group chats, which were revealed because the editor in chief of The Atlantic was inadvertently added to one. The inspector generals office began to look into the incident in April after Republican and Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee requested it do so. The revelation offers a new headache for Hegseth, who has faced mounting criticism over the leaked Signal chats, his management style and his reported decision to pause military aid to Ukraine without President Trumps approval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Numerous Democrats and at least one Republican have called for Hegseth to resign or be fired over the leak scandal. In a statement to The Hill on Wednesday, chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell doubled down on the claim that no classified information was shared on Signal, calling the narrative old and worn out. The Department stands behind its previous statements: no classified information was shared via Signal. As weve said repeatedly, nobody was texting war plans and the success of the Departments recent operationsfrom Operation Rough Rider to Operation Midnight Hammerare proof that our operational security and discipline are top notch, Parnell said, touting the military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen and U.S. strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities last month. The Post reported Kurilla sent his sensitive message over a classified system known as the Secret Internet Protocol Router Network. He included a rundown of strike plans for March 15, including when bombing was expected to begin and what kind of aircraft and weapons would be used. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people told the Post that they were not aware of any discussions for Hegseth to declassify and downgrade the information Kurilla sent as government regulations can allow before he sent it to the Signal chats. Former White House national security adviser Michael Waltz, who created the Signal chat, was removed from his job two months after the scandal broke. He has since been nominated to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. At his nomination hearing last week, Waltz insisted no classified information was shared. The inspector generals office declined to comment on its review, the findings of which are expected to be released within a few months, according to the Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated July 24 at 1:40 p.m. EDT. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Washington The Pentagon's internal watchdog has obtained evidence that encrypted messages sent from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's Signal account included details from a classified email, according to two senior American officials with knowledge of the matter. The chat messages listed out information on a planned U.S. bombing operation in Yemen in March, and were sent to several Trump administration officials in a Signal group which became public when a reporter was inadvertently added to the chat. At the time, administration officials denied that any classified information was shared in the chat. Key information in the messages was derived from a classified email marked "SECRET//NOFORN," said the two officials, who both requested anonymity to speak about an ongoing investigation into top Trump administration officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The "SECRET" designation means that the information was classified and the disclosure of this information could potentially cause serious damage to national security, potentially jeopardizing the safety of service members. The "NOFORN" label means the information can only be disseminated to U.S. agencies and individuals, excluding foreign nationals and even close U.S. allies. The Washington Post first reported about the Defense Department's Office of Inspector General receiving the evidence on Wednesday. Contacted by CBS News on Wednesday, the Inspector General's office said it would not comment about ongoing oversight projects. In April, the Defense Department IG announced it would evaluate the Defense Secretary's use of commercial messaging applications for official business and whether his office complied with classification and records retention requirements. The Pentagon's chief spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement, "The Department stands behind its previous statements: no classified information was shared via Signal." He also called reporting on the secretary's use of the Signal app "so old and worn out, it's starting to resemble Joe Biden's mental state." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump administration officials have faced staunch scrutiny since the existence of the Signal chat messages was first reported by The Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg, who was accidentally added to the Signal chat group by then-National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. Trump officials in the Signal chat group have repeatedly denied that classified information was shared in the group. But the two U.S. officials with knowledge of the evidence received by the Pentagon's watchdog office told CBS News on Wednesday that the information Hegseth posted in the encrypted Signal chat group was derived from a classified email sent out by Gen. Michael "Erik" Kurilla to dozens of defense officials. Kurilla oversees U.S. Central Command, which is the primary Defense Department organization responsible for conducting U.S. military operations in the Middle East. The Atlantic published screenshots that it said were from the Signal chat, which appeared to show Hegseth sharing a timeline of planned attacks on Houthi rebels in Yemen. It listed the timing of two sets of F-18 launches and strikes, a set of drone strikes and some Tomahawk missile strikes. "Just CONFIRMED w/ CENTCOM we are a GO for mission launch," one message read, according to the magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesman, said in an April statement: "There was no classified information in any Signal chat, no matter how many ways they try to write the story." He made that claim after reporting showed Hegseth also shared details in a separate Signal chat that included members of his family. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe both of whom appeared to be members of the chat group also told lawmakers in March that classified material wasn't shared. Ratcliffe said that Signal "is a permissible use" application that has been approved by the White House for use by senior officials, and the group chat was a "mechanism for communicating between senior level officials but not a substitute for using high side or classified communications." The defense secretary, according to federal regulations, has the authority to declassify information, but after the messages surfaced, Hegseth didn't answer when asked by reporters whether he took that approach before sharing the information on Signal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Nobody was texting war plans," Hegseth told reporters in March. Signal is a free messaging app that's popular due to its high standard of encryption, which prevents people other than the senders or recipients from viewing messages. Human error remains a vulnerability for Signal and other encrypted apps, as the episode involving Hegseth demonstrated. And in February, the National Security Agency warned its staff that Russian hacking groups were using phishing messages to gain access to Signal users' accounts, allowing them to view victims' activity, according to documents obtained by CBS News earlier this year. Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Idaho murders victims' families speak out at Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files One by one, the relatives of the University of Idaho murder victims stepped up to the podium and stared down admitted killer Bryan Kohberger during victim impact statements at his sentencing on Wednesday. Victim Kaylee Goncalves' sister, Alivea Goncalves, who has been an outspoken advocate for Kaylee and her lifelong best friend and fellow victim Maddie Mogen, said in a forceful statement to Kohberger, "My sister Kaylee and her best friend Maddie were not yours to take. They were not yours to study, to stalk or to silence." "They're everything you could never be: loved, accepted, vibrant, accomplished, brave and powerful," she said. Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Alivea Goncalves, sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. MORE: Bryan Kohberger live updates: Judge sentences Idaho killer to life, says motive may never be known Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They would've been kind to you. If you had approached them in their everyday lives, they would've given you directions, thanked you for the compliment. ... In a world that rejected you, they would've shown mercy," she said. Goncalves said she "won't stand here and give you what you want": tears and trembling. "You didn't win. ... You're a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser who thought you were so much smarter than everybody else," she said. "You aren't special or deep, not mysterious or exceptional. Don't ever get it twisted again. No one is scared of you today. No one is intimidated by you, no one is impressed by you, no one thinks you are important," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She concluded her statement with memorable words to Kohberger, saying that, if he hadn't attacked the students in their sleep, "Kaylee would've kicked your f------ ass." People in the courtroom clapped when Goncalves stepped down. Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Steve Goncalves, father of victim Kaylee Goncalves, hugs his daughter Alivea after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four consecutive life sentences on the four first-degree murder counts and the maximum penalty of 10 years on the burglary count. The students -- roommates Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen and Xana Kernodle, and Kernodle's boyfriend, Ethan Chapin -- were stabbed to death at the girls' off-campus house on Nov. 13, 2022. On July 2, weeks before the trial was set to start, Kohberger pleaded guilty to all counts. As a part of the plea deal, the death penalty was taken off the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Kaylee's mom, Kristi Goncalves, read her statement on Wednesday, she said to Kohberger, "hell will be waiting." "You are nothing. May you continue to live your life in misery. You are officially the property of the state of Idaho, where your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival," she said. Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Parents of victim Kaylee Goncalves, Steve Goncalves consoles Kristi Goncalves as she speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. MORE: Idaho murders latest: Police chiefs break silence after gag order lifted Kaylee's dad, Steve Goncalves, said to Kohberger, "Today, you've lost control. Today we are here to prove to the world that you picked the wrong families, the wrong state, the wrong police officers, the wrong community." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us -- you failed. Instead, your actions have united everyone in their disgust for you," he said. Goncalves slammed Kohberger as "foolish and stupid" for leaving his DNA behind at the crime scene. "Master's degree? You're a joke, a complete joke," he said. "Nobody cares about you. ... From this moment, we will forget you. ... You picked the wrong family and we're laughing at you on your trip" to prison, he said. Kyle Green/via Reuters - PHOTO: Bryan Kohberger, 30, appears for his sentencing hearing after he was convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four Idaho college students, at the Ada County Courthouse, in Boise, Idaho, July 23, 2025. Maddie Mogen's grandmother, Kim Cheeley, said in court that her "fear was truly debilitating" in the wake of the murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, after Kohberger's arrest, she said her family has lived "with the effects of traumatic grief." Cheeley said she's experienced depression and anxiety and has tried to cope with grief classes and EMDR therapy. She said she's grateful her own mother died in the months before Mogen was killed, so she did not live through "the horror." Kyle Green/Pool/Getty Images - PHOTO: Kim Cheeley, grandmother of victim Madison Mogen, speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on July 23, 2025 in Boise, Idaho. Xana Kernodle's stepfather, Randy Davis, addressed the other victims' families, saying this was likely the last time they'd all be in the same room. "I love you all and I feel your pain," he said. To Kohberger, he said while shaking, "You're gonna go to hell ... you're evil ... you took our children ... you are gonna suffer, man." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Go to hell," he concluded, as everyone clapped. However, one relative struck a different tone. Xana Kernodle's aunt, Kim Kernodle, said to Kohberger, "I've forgiven you, because I could no longer live with that hate." "Any time you want to talk and tell me what happened ... I'm here, no judgment," she said to her niece's killer. MORE: Idaho college murders: As Kohberger admits to the brutal crime, here's the full timeline of events Ethan Chapin's family chose not to attend the sentencing. The court also heard from the two surviving roommates. Dylan Mortensen, who told police she saw a man in a mask in their house on the night of the murders, sobbed in court as she described her debilitating, tsunami-like panic attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sometimes I drop to the floor with my heart racing, convinced something is very wrong. ... It's my body reliving everything over and over again," she said. Kyle Green/via Reuters - PHOTO: Dylan Mortensen gets a hug after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger after he was convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four Idaho college students, at the Ada County Courthouse, in Boise, Idaho, July 23, 2025. MORE: Idaho college victims' friends recall moment they responded to home: 'You know something's wrong' She said Kohberger "took away my ability to trust the world around me" and "shattered me in places I didn't know could break." "I was barely 19 when he did this," she said. "I should've been figuring out who I was. I should've been figuring out the college experience ... instead, I was forced to learn how to survive the unimaginable. I couldn't be left alone. I had to sleep in my mom's room because I was too terrified to close my eyes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She called Kohberger a "hollow vessel, something less than human -- a body without empathy, without remorse." "He tried to take everything from me: my friends, my safety, my identity, my future," she said. "He took their lives, but I will continue trying to be like them, to make them proud. Living is how I honor them." MORE: Idaho college victim's siblings remember arriving at crime scene: 'Not on this earth anymore' Friend Emily Alandt read a statement on behalf of the second surviving roommate, Bethany Funke. Funke said she carries guilt over not calling 911 right away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was so frantic that morning and scared to death, not knowing what had happened. And when I made the 911 call I couldn't even get out the words," she said. Funke said she wonders every day why she got to live and her friends did not, and said she felt "sick with guilt" when she looked at her friends' families. She said the crime has left her terrified. She said she slept in her parents' room for nearly a year and made them double lock each door. She said she has never slept through the night and constantly wakes up in panic, worried that someone is breaking in, trying to hurt her or someone she loves. MORE: New book on University of Idaho murders sheds light on Bryan Kohberger's potential motive Funke said she's still scared to go out in public but forces herself to do so because she knows her friends would want her to live her life to the fullest. Funke also opened up about what she misses about her friends. She said Xana Kerndole was the "kindest and funniest person," and that Ethan Chapin and Kerndole "were absolute soulmates." Kaylee Goncalves "had the most beautiful, radiant smile" and could have ruled the world, Funke said. Maddie Mogen, Funke's big sister in their sorority, was the "older sister I would've always wanted," she said. "There was no one I looked up to or admired more than Maddie." "I wish more than anything I could hug them one last time," she said. Join 10 On Your Sides Operation School Supplies to give students across Hampton Roads a fresh start in the classroom. WAVY-TV 10 and WVBT FOX43 have championed this mission for 33 years. We need your help to collect the tools kids need for a successful year. This years initiative kicks off Friday, July 11, 2025 and culminates in a live donation event on Friday, August 1 at Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., and the Target at Pembroke Square in Virginia Beach from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. that day. You can drop off new school supplies and help make a difference for local students in need. A list of most-requested items includes: backpacks, folders, loose-leaf paper, spiral notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, dry erase markers, glue sticks, scissors, rulers, headphones/earbuds, hand sanitizer, and tissues. In addition to physical donations, monetary contributions can be made using the link below. Our sponsor, Chesapeake Bank, will get your donations to those that need it most. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CLICK HERE TO DONATE ONLINE If youre considering donating supplies, keep in mind that Virginias sales tax 3-day holiday weekend is August 1-3, 2025. This coincides with WAVYs live donation event.Virginias 3-day sales tax holiday is August 1-3, 2025 Items may be dropped off during regular business hours at the following locations. Patrick Henry Mall 12300 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23602 Target at Pembroke Square 4554 Virginia Beach Blvd Suite 500, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 WAVY-TV 10 Studio 300 Wavy Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704 Our sponsors, Chesapeake Bank, Kellam, Patrick Henry Mall, Harrisons by Apple Moving, and United Way South Hampton Roads will be instrumental in helping us collect school supplies that our local school systems so desperately need. All collected supplies will be distributed directly to local school districts and educational organizations. Advertisement 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 WAVY.com. Baraa, a three month old baby, is one of the thousands of infants in Gaza who are on the brink of death from starvation. Footage shared with The Telegraph by UNICEF shows several babies, including Baraa, suffering from acute malnutrition at one of the few functioning medical facilities left on the strip. I can no longer breastfeed [Baraa] because I hardly eat myself, Randa, the infants mother, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no infant formula available in any pharmacy. Ive been forced to give her powdered milk from food aid, even though I know its not suitable for a baby her age. I survive on just one meal a day, and my body no longer produces enough milk to feed her. Her body is growing weaker day by day, she weighs only three kilograms. Im terrified that I might lose her, she said. Another video shows an eight year old girl, Maryam Dawas, being treated at another clinic. Her face and body are emaciated and show clear signs of extreme malnutrition. Her mother, Madlala, said: Maryam has been suffering from malnutrition for a year and a half, and Ive been suffering along with her. There has been no improvement at all. Even when she gains one kilogram and I take her home from the hospital, she relapses again. There is no food for her to eat, not even eggs. Her hair is falling out, and she has no calcium. She used to have seizures, and she cant go to the bathroom by herself, I have to carry her. She cant walk. She starts crying and asks me, Why cant I walk? Whats wrong with me? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, more than 100 aid organisations and human rights groups warned that mass starvation is spreading in Gaza. The statement, signed by 111 organisations including Doctors without Borders (MSF), Oxfam and Save the Children, said that an average of 28 lorryloads of aid is being distributed daily in Gaza. The UN has previously said that a minimum of 600 lorries a day are required to feed the population of two million people. The Hamas-run health ministry said on Tuesday that 33 people, including 12 children, had died from malnutrition in the last 48 hours. Data shared with The Telegraph by UNICEF suggests the situation has been rapidly worsening in recent months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January, 2,846 children were diagnosed with malnutrition a figure that has jumped month on month, to 5,870 in June. Suzan Mohammad Marouf, a clinical nutrition specialist stationed at the Patients Society Hospital, said her staff see nearly 250 to 300 malnutrition cases daily. Infants, breastfeeding mothers, and pregnant women who suffer from malnutrition, there is not enough milk and not enough food, said Dr Marouf. We encourage exclusive breastfeeding for children under six months of age, but due to certain conditions the mother may be going through, whether her health is poor or she is suffering from malnutrition, she cannot breastfeed naturally. In that case, we turn to formula milk. But currently, formula milk is unavailable or only available in very limited quantities that do not meet the babys needs, which leads to children suffering from malnutrition, Dr Marouf said. Baby Baraa is one of the thousands of infants in Gaza who facing starvation - Unicef Randa the mother of three month old Baraa has four other young children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They cry out from hunger [...] every morning, asking me to knead dough and bake bread. They tell me, Were hungry Mama. Virtually all food aid in Gaza is now only available at just four fixed distribution points along the 41 kilometre strip, run exclusively by the US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). At least 1,026 have been killed by the military while seeking food at GHF centres, the UN has said. Israel denies blocking supplies to Gaza and denies there is a famine there. We have not identified starvation at this current point in time but we understand that action is required to stabilise the humanitarian situation, an unnamed senior Israeli security official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (NewsNation) Hershey is raising its candy prices as it grapples with the high costs of ingredients, mainly the price of cocoa. The Pennsylvania-based candymaker told its retailers that it would be applying a roughly double-digit price increase. The increase reflects a higher list price as well as adjustments to the weight and number of candies in a bag, which is known as shrinkflation. Coca-Cola wont change Diet Coke recipe Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Hershey said the price hike is not related to tariffs or trade policies, and that its only related to cocoa prices. The company has previously asked the government for a tariff exemption on cocoa. According to Trading Economics, cocoa futures have risen to more than $8,100 per ton. That increase is being driven by supply issues in the wake of poor weather and disease in Ivory Coast and Ghana, which together account for more than 60% of the global supply. Swiss chocolatier Lindt implemented a nearly 16% increase on its products back in March due to rising cocoa prices. The companys chief financial officer told Reuters that going forward, more price increases will be needed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Hezbollah has made it clear that it is not willing to surrender its weapons even if Israel withdraws from southern Lebanon, raising tensions in Lebanon. Hezbollah is not ready to hand over its arms, Walla news site reported Wednesday, citing a report by Saudi Arabias Al-Hadath news site. Hezbollah in Lebanon has remained stubborn in the face of calls to hand over arms, according to a series of recent reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hezbollah has faced some challenges since Israel defeated it militarily last year. Despite a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, the IAF continues to carry out airstrikes against Hezbollah. It is not clear if these limited strikes will actually cause Hezbollah to disarm. In fact, Hezbollah appears to be trying to wait things out. Hezbollah has made it clear to its ally, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, that it is not willing to surrender its weapons even if Israel withdraws from southern Lebanon, Walla reported. The Lebanese state is furious with Hezbollah in light of this position and the organization is even ready to confront it, according to sources in a report by the Saudi newspaper Al-Hadath. A person with the Hezbollah flag draped over his shoulders looks on during the day of a public funeral ceremony for late Hezbollah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine, who were killed in Israeli airstrikes last year, in Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium, Beirut, February 23 2025 (credit: REUTERS/Mohammed Yassin) Hezbollah recently would have been keenly listening to the words of US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack, who was in Lebanon this week. The US is trying to use its influence to move forward with Lebanon, he said, adding that the US cannot compel any of the sides to do anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means it is up to Lebanon to deal with Hezbollah. Therefore, Israel will also continue its airstrikes. Hezbollah is posing as if it cannot make a decision regarding key issues in Lebanon. It is not involved with reconstruction, and it will not disarm. Sources also clarified that Berri told the US envoy to Lebanon and Syria, Thomas Barak, that he could not guarantee that he would be able to leave Hezbollahs weapons north of the Litani River before the end of the year even if Israel withdraws from Lebanon, Walla reported. Lebanese leadership wants to disarm Hezbollah without rocking the boat Lebanese leaders want to say they are moving forward. Nevertheless, the government recently released men who had been detained for parading with arms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In essence, Lebanon is trying to not rock the boat. Dialogue would continue, according to a separate report by Beirut-based Al Akhbar newspaper, which is pro-Hezbollah. US envoy to Beirut, Tom Barrack, considered that restricting the possession of weapons to the state is essential for Lebanons stability, noting that Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri is making efforts to resolve the situation, the report said. The time has come to come together on a complex issue, Barak said after visiting Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rai in Bkerke, the report said. President Trump wants Lebanon to succeed, and I came to Beirut representing the US president on a visit to offer advice, he was quoted as saying. We have been working on a solution for four weeks. It is a complex process, and I understand the difficulties. We recently published 10 Most Undervalued Pharma Stocks To Buy Now. Novartis AG stands third among the most undervalued stocks. Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) is a Swiss pharmaceutical leader focused on developing innovative treatments across oncology, immunology, neuroscience, cardiovascular, and renal diseases. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development, aiming to deliver breakthrough medicines that improve patient outcomes worldwide. The companys Kisqali (ribociclib) has emerged as a major growth driver, with Q2 2025 sales surging 64% globally and 100% in the U.S. It targets metastatic breast cancer and is positioned as a potential blockbuster. Other notable therapies include Pluvicto for prostate cancer and Scemblix for chronic myeloid leukemia, both showing strong commercial momentum. Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) is expanding its presence in nephrology. Vanrafia (atrasentan) recently received FDA accelerated approval for reducing proteinuria in IgA nephropathy, marking a key advancement. Fabhalta (iptacopan), an oral treatment for C3 glomerulopathy, also gained approval. Ongoing trials include zigakibart, a Phase III candidate for IgAN, with results expected in 2026. The business introduced Coartem Baby, a pediatric malaria treatment approved by Swissmedic. It addresses the unmet need for infants under 5 kg with a cherry-flavored, easily dissolvable formulation. Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) plans to launch it on a not-for-profit basis in malaria-endemic regions. Kisqali Emerges as Novartis AG (NVS) Blockbuster with Record Q2 Growth A pharmacy technician in a laboratory preparing medication for retail distribution. The corporation has streamlined its pipeline around core therapeutic areas, with several Phase III trials in progress. These include remibrutinib for autoimmune diseases, ianalumab for lupus, and YTB323 for neuroimmunological disorders. The company expects 15 submission-enabling data readouts over the next two years, which underscores a robust late-stage pipeline. While we acknowledge the potential of NVS as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. A newly revealed letter shows a powerful House congressman had warned the CIA not to release any records related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s assassination, even under public records laws, without congressional permission. The 1979 letter from Rep. Louis Stokes to CIA Director Stansfield Turner was declassified this week following the federal release of 230,000 pages of files tied to Kings 1968 murder. The trove, made public on July 21 by the National Archives under Executive Order 14176, has reignited longstanding questions about the federal governments role and awareness in the events surrounding the assassination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stokes, a Democrat from Ohio and former chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, chaired the House Select Committee on Assassinations investigation. In the 1979 letter, Stokes urged the CIA to keep all related materials confidential unless explicitly authorized by the House. It can be anticipated that your Agency will receive requests under the Freedom of Information Act for access to these materials. The purpose of this letter is to request specifically that this Congressional material and related information in a form connected to the Committee not be disclosed outside your Agency without the written concurrence of the House of Representatives. Stokes did not provide a justification for this request. However, the warning accompanied concerns within the CIA itself. A 1976 internal memo from Lyle L. Miller, deputy legislative counsel for the Agency, proposed a cooperative approach with Congress to gain lawmakers trust but also to preserve the CIAs own institutional interests. In looking to the road ahead, which may well eventually prove bumpy it is absolutely imperative that we fortify ourselves with the Committee. The strategy included offering inventories of files, copies of unclassified collections, and background briefings. In exchange, the CIA hoped for quid pro quos on security and other matters in which we have strong equities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Resolution 222, passed on February 2, 1977, established the Select Committee on Assassinations with the mandate to investigate the killings of King and Kennedy. The committees final report, issued in 1979, concluded that both men were likely assassinated as part of conspiracies, though it failed to identify all participants. The broader context includes longstanding skepticism about the FBI and CIAs role in surveilling and harassing King. Public trust in official narratives eroded further after a 1999 Memphis civil jury found that James Earl Ray, who pled guilty to killing King, was part of a conspiracy that included government agencies. The evidence introduced in King v. Jowers to support various conspiracy allegations consisted of either inaccurate and incomplete information or unsubstantiated conjecture, supplied most often by sources, many unnamed, who did not testify, a Department of Justice press release responded after the verdict. King was gunned down on April 4, 1968, at a motel in Memphis, Tennessee. James Earl Ray later pleaded guilty to the killing but recanted shortly thereafter and claimed innocence until he died in 1998. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stokes went on to become the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. Stokes served in Congress from January 3, 1969, until January 3, 1999. The Dallas Express is currently analyzing the 230,000 pages and will continue to report on new developments as they emerge. GUILFORD COUNTY A High Point man was arrested this week and charged in the fatal shooting of a juvenile girl earlier this month in eastern Guilford County. Karell Tyshawn Harrington, 21, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, the Guilford County Sheriffs Office reported Tuesday. Harrington is being held in the Guilford County Detention Center in Greensboro with no bond allowed. On July 2, deputies responded to the 500 block of Hooper Road in McLeansville about a shooting. Deputies found a female victim who was dead from an apparent gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said from the outset that the shooting was an isolated incident and there is no immediate threat to the community. The name of the victim hasnt been released because the female victim was a juvenile. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the young victim, Sheriff Danny Rogers said. A life taken far too soon is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure. Our detectives have worked tirelessly to seek justice on her behalf. The High Point Police Department arrested Harrington in June of last year and charged him with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and assault in the presence of a minor. The investigation of the Hooper Road homicide is ongoing. The sheriffs office asks that anyone with information about the case call the detectives office at 336-641-2570 or submit a tip anonymously through Guilford County Crime Stoppers at 336-373-1000. A hiker was rescued after reportedly getting attacked by a brown bear along a trail in Alaska, according to the Anchorage Fire Department. On Tuesday at approximately 3 p.m., officials responded to 911 calls from a hiker "reporting they were mauled by a bear and needed help as soon as possible," the fire department said in a statement. The attack occurred about two miles up the Dome Trail in Anchorage, the local police department confirmed to ABC News. The female hiker -- who has not been identified by officials -- reported that she "could not get out" on her own "due to injuries sustained in the mauling," the fire department said. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images - PHOTO: A Grizzly bear in Anchorage, Alaska. The woman provided directions to her location on the trail and remained on the phone with officials while they scanned the area to locate her, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters and paramedics responded to the scene, with drones deployed to help find the hiker, according to officials. Once she was located, she was rescued with a helicopter and transported to a local hospital with "what we believe to be non-life-threatening injuries," police said. MORE: 89-year-old man and dog killed in bear attacks in Florida: Officials Police told ABC News the hiker is in stable condition as of Wednesday and that, at this time, they "will not be sharing her name with the public." The brown bear ran off after the incident, the fire department noted in its statement. As of Tuesday night, Alaska Fish & Game was still trying to locate the bear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said hikers in Anchorage are "encouraged to file trip plans with friends or family prior to trekking off into the great outdoors" and recommend people leave a copy of their trip plans underneath their vehicle's windshield. Anchorage Fire Department - PHOTO: A hiker was rescued after reportedly getting attacked by a brown bear along a trail in Alaska, according to the Anchorage Fire Department. "Information regarding your planned route can be invaluable as we try to locate you in case of an emergency," the fire department said. With both black and brown bears living within the municipality of Anchorage, the local parks and recreation department provides tips to keep in mind while recreating in any park or trail in the area, including to remain in groups, make noise, carry bear spray, leash all dogs and to never run from a bear. "Stop, group up, talk to the bear and let it know you are human," Anchorage Parks and Recreation said on its website. According to the National Park Service, the majority of bear attacks occur not because the animal is hunting a human, but when it feels threatened or is protecting its young. The only exception is if the bear is "suffering from very severe starvation," the NPS said on its website. Following another vintage Blessed performance at UFC 318, Max Holloway is on the rise once again. The 33-year-old from Waianae moved up to No. 4 in the UFCs official lightweight rankings this week after a dominant victory over longtime rival Dustin Poirier on Saturday in New Orleans, Louisiana. Holloway swapped places with Justin Gaethje, who dropped to No. 5, while Poirier, who announced his retirement following the bout, was removed from the rankings entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holloways win was historic in several respects not only did he avenge two previous losses to Poirier, but he also became the first fighter to successfully defend the UFCs symbolic BMF title. The former featherweight champion has now firmly planted himself in the upper echelon of the 155-pound division. With the win, the conversation quickly shifted to whats next for Holloway, and the options are both plentiful and intriguing. UFC president Dana White acknowledged during the UFC 318 post-fight press conference that Holloway could be in line for a shot at current lightweight champion Ilia Topuria. The two have history: Topuria handed Holloway the first knockout loss of his career in 2024 when they fought for the featherweight title. Another possible opponent is Charles Oliveira. The Brazilian veteran, who lost to Topuria at UFC 317, remains a top contender despite being temporarily out of the title picture. Holloway and Oliveira previously met in 2015 in what was Holloways first UFC main event, a fight he won by TKO after Oliveira suffered a neck injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Holloway and Oliveira currently have 23 career UFC victories, tied for second-most all-time behind Jim Millers 27. A rematch between the two would not only rekindle their competitive history but also decide sole possession of second place in the UFC wins leaderboard. Other intriguing matchups include Dan Hooker, a fan-favorite who many believe is worthy of a BMF title shot, and of course, the long-discussed rematch with Conor McGregor. Holloway has long called a second fight with the former two-division champion the fight, a bout that would reunite two future Hall of Famers who first faced off in 2013 early in their storied careers. While nothing has been made official, Holloway is expected to return to the Octagon by the end of 2025 or early 2026. One thing is certain, the Blessed Express remains on the track. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Jessie Pang HONG KONG (Reuters) -A Hong Kong court ruled on Wednesday in favour of a transgender person who challenged laws that criminalise them for going into public toilets that align with their chosen gender identity. Judge Russell Coleman struck down the two provisions that made it criminal to do so but suspended the ruling for 12 months to let the government "consider whether it wishes to implement a way to deal with the contravention". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Environment and Ecology Bureau said in an email response to Reuters that the government will carefully study the judgment and consult the Department of Justice on the appropriate follow-up action. "This is a matter of the line-drawing, which seems to me to be a question for the government or legislature to address," Coleman wrote in his judgment. He also said the question of where to draw the line between a "female person" and a "male person" is "an answer not appropriately given by the courts, and is more appropriately a matter for legislation". The legal challenge was launched by a transgender man, who identifies as K, born as a female and identifies as a man, and who sought to amend the Public Conveniences (Conduct and Behaviour) Regulations to allow individuals undergoing Real Life Experience (RLE) treatment under medical supervision to use public toilets that align with their gender identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the latest ruling from the city's judiciary in recent years that recognises the rights of transgender people. The city's Court of Final Appeal in February 2023 unanimously sided with appeals launched by transgender activists that barred transgender people from changing their gender on their mandatory ID cards unless they undergo full sex reassignment surgery, saying it violated their rights. The Hong Kong government last April revised the policy and allowed transgender people who have not completed full sex reassignment surgery to change gender on their ID cards. (Reporting by Jessie Pang; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree and Raju Gopalakrishnan) HONG KONG (AP) A Hong Kong judge on Wednesday ruled to strike down regulations criminalizing the use of bathrooms designated for the opposite sex, ruling in favor of transgender individuals' rights to access public toilets matching their identity. Judge Russell Coleman approved the judicial review of K, who was born a woman and identifies as a man, saying the regulations contravene an article of the city's mini-constitution that stipulates all residents should be equal before the law. But he suspended the declaration to strike down the regulations for a year to allow the government to consider whether it wishes to implement a way to deal with the contravention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said in the judgment that the regulations and drawing the line of a person's biological sex at birth create a disproportionate and unnecessary intrusion into the privacy and equality rights." The ruling marks another step forward in recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ people in the Chinese financial hub. In recent years, the government has revised policies following activists wins in legal challenges. Currently, only children under 5 years old accompanied by an opposite sex adult can enter a public washroom designated for the opposite sex. Those violating the rule face a fine of up to 2,000 Hong Kong dollars (about $255). K launched a legal challenge in 2022, seeking to expand the exemption to pre-operative transgender people who have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and have a medical need to undergo the process of living in their identified gender. He argued that his constitutional rights were infringed by the prohibition against him using public toilets allocated for men, the court heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Environment and Ecology Bureau said in an emailed statement that the government will carefully study the judgment and consult the Department of Justice on the appropriate follow-up action. Quarks, a group serving transgender youth in Hong Kong, welcomed the ruling, urging officials to take immediate action to rectify what it called long-standing discrimination in the system. The ruling is not just an affirmation of transgender rights legally but also a big step forward for Hong Kong's overall human rights development, it said on Instagram. In 2023, Hong Kong's top court ruled that full sex reassignment surgery should not be a prerequisite for transgender people to have their gender changed on their official identity cards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next year, the government revised its policy to allow people who have not completed full gender-affirmation surgery to change their genders on ID cards as long as they fulfill certain conditions. The conditions include the removal of breasts for transgender men, the removal of the penis and testes for transgender women, and having undergone continuous hormonal treatment for at least two years before applying. Applicants also have to continue their hormonal treatment and submit blood test reports for random checks upon the governments request. In April, activist Henry Tse, who won the legal battle in 2023 and received his new ID card reflecting his gender change last year, lodged a fresh legal challenge over the new requirements. NEW YORK (AP) For nearly a decade, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has been using science to warn about ever more dangerous climate change in increasingly urgent tones. Now he's enlisting something seemingly more important to the world's powerful: Money. In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Guterres hailed the power of market forces in what he repeatedly called a battle to save the planet. He pointed to two new U.N. reports showing the plummeting cost of solar and wind power and the growing generation and capacity of those green energy sources. He warned those who cling to fossil fuels that they could go broke doing it. Science and the economy show the way, Guterres said in a 20-minute interview in his 38th-floor conference room overlooking the New York skyline. What we need is the political will to take the decisions that are necessary in regulatory frameworks, in financial aspects, in other policy dimensions. Governments need to take decisions not to be an obstacle to the natural trend to accelerate the renewables transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means by the end of the autumn, governments need to come up with new plans to fight climate change that are compatible with the global goal of limiting warming and ones that apply to their entire economy and include all greenhouse gases, Guterres said. But don't expect one from the United States. President Donald Trump has pulled out of the landmark Paris climate agreement, slashed efforts to boost renewable energy and made fossil fuels a priority, including the dirtiest one in terms of climate and health, coal. Obviously, the (Trump) administration in itself is an obstacle, but there are others. The government in the U.S. doesnt control everything, Guterres said. Sure, Trump pulled out of the Paris accord, but many states and cities are trying to live up to the Biden administration's climate-saving goals by reducing the burning of coal, oil and natural gas that release heat-trapping gases, Guterres said. Invest in fossil fuels, risk stranded assets? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People do not want to lose money. People do not want to make investments in what will become stranded assets, Guterres said. And I believe that even in the United States, we will go on seeing a reduction of emissions, I have no doubt about it. He said any new investments in exploring for new fossil fuel deposits will be totally lost and called them just a waste of money. Im perfectly convinced that we will never be able, in the history of humankind, to spend all the oil and gas that was already discovered, Guterres said. But amid the hope of the renewable reports, Guterres said the world is still losing its battle on climate change, in danger of permanently passing 1.5 degree Celsius (2.7 degree Fahrenheit) warming since preindustrial times. That threshold is what the Paris agreement set up as a hoped-for global limit to warming 10 years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many scientists have already pronounced the 1.5 threshold dead. Indeed, 2024 passed that mark, though scientists say it requires a 20-year average, not a single year, to consider the threshold breached. A scientific study from researchers who often work with the U.N. last month said the world is spewing so much carbon dioxide that sometime in early 2028, a couple years earlier than once predicted, passing the 1.5 mark will become scientifically inevitable. Guterres: We need to go on fighting even as it looks bleak Guterres hasn't given up on the 1.5 degree goal yet, though he said it looks bad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We see the acceleration of different aspects of climate change, rising seas, glaciers melting, heat waves, storms of different kinds, he said. We need to go on fighting, he said. I think we are on the right side of history. Guterres, who spoke to AP after addressing the U.N. Security Council on the Israeli occupation of Gaza, said there's only one way to solve that seemingly intractable issue: An immediate ceasefire, a release of all remaining hostages, access for humanitarian relief and paving the way for a serious political process leading to the two-state solution. Some people say the two-state solution is now becoming extremely difficult. Even some saying its impossible. But the question is, what is the alternative? Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan are all crises, Guterres said, but climate change is an existential problem for the entire planet. And he said people don't realize how climate-caused droughts and extreme weather can feed poverty and terrorism. He pointed to the Sahel as an example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We see that people live in worse and worse conditions, less and less capacity to grow their crops, less and less capital, he said. And this is largely due to climate change. Everything is interlinked: Climate change, artificial intelligence, geopolitical divides, the problems of inequality and injustice, Guterres said. And we need to make sure that we make progress in all of them at the same time. ___ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. SPRINGFIELD The Dunbar Community Center on Oak Street in Springfield celebrated the unveiling of a new mural titled Hope for the Future on Monday. The mural, painted over six days by Dallas artist Jeremy Biggers, was sponsored by Commonwealth Murals, which has created 80 murals in and around Springfield. Read the original article on MassLive. A common complaint in the American healthcare debate is that physicians make too much money, and that their pay is a major reason healthcare is so expensive. But a U.S. surgeon recently spent an administrative day crunching the numbers, and he argues the reality doesn't match the outrage. Physician salaries account for roughly 8.6% of total healthcare costs [in the U.S.], the surgeon wrote in a Reddit post on r/Salary. It's around 10% in Canada, 15% in Germany, 11% in France, 11.6% in Australia, and 9.7% in the UK. Don't Miss: A Closer Look At The Numbers He also did his own calculations using Canadian healthcare spending figures. Canada spent $372 billion on healthcare last year. With an average physician salary of $384,000 and 97,384 physicians nationwide, the total salary cost works out to about $37.4 billionroughly 10% of total healthcare spending. That figure aligns closely with the U.S., suggesting that doctors' share of healthcare spending isn't uniquely bloated in America. This just means that our healthcare system as a whole is riddled by parasites such as insurance companies and admin, he added. Critics often argue that U.S. physicians earn much more than their international peers. But when the Reddit poster compared salaries of engineers, teachers, lawyers and plumbers in the U.S., Canada, Germany, and France, he found similar ratios to physician salaries across all professions. Trending: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25 For example, the ratio of physician to engineer pay was 2.7 in the U.S., compared to 3.2 in Canada and 1.9 in Germany. When it came to teachers, the ratio was 4.1 in the U.S. and 4.7 in Canada. It seems like Germany underpays teachers relative to physicians, but the USA is very close to France and Canada, he noted. So What's Actually Driving Costs? Commenters overwhelmingly agreed that doctors aren't the problem. Healthcare is now the largest employer in the country and its got very little to do with doctors, nurses and surgeons, one person wrote. It's admin. It's always been admin, said another. There are, what, a dozen administrators per doctor in the average hospital? Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard released new documents, showing the most egregious weaponization in American history. This is the latest in a series of releases, showing how former President Barack Obama allegedly planned a years-long coup against President Donald Trump. New evidence has emerged of the most egregious weaponization and politicization of intelligence in American history. Per President @realDonaldTrump's directive, I have declassified a @HouseIntel oversight majority staff report that exposes how the Obama Administration pic.twitter.com/0sS4Df8yoI DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) July 23, 2025 Gabbard declassified a September 18, 2020, report from the House Oversight Committee, which analyzed the document Obama ordered officials to create as the foundation of the Trump-Russia collusion narrative. The Obama report made some credible claims, while numerous others fell below intelligence standards. Claims After Trumps 2016 victory, Obama ordered officials to counter previous intelligence findings and create an Intelligence Community Assessment on the Russian Influence Campaign Targeting the 2016 US Presidential Election. This report became the foundation of the Trump-Russian collusion narrative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obamas report made a few credible claims including that Putin ordered conventional and cyber influence operations, he wanted to undermine faith in the US democratic process, and he held back leaking some compromising material on what would have been the Clinton administration, according to the newly-released document. But his ICA report also fell below intelligence standards in numerous ways, like when it claimed Putin had a clear preference for Trump and aspired to help his chances of victory, according to the new document. The Obama report based Putins supposed preference for Trump upon a questionable interpretation of a sentence fragment, from a source who had both a strong dislike of Putin and an anti-Trump bias, the document said. After Trump won, then-CIA Director John Brennan published numerous reports advancing the Russia collusion narrative, including three that were substandard containing information that was unclear, of uncertain origin, potentially biased, or implausible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those became foundational sources for the ICA judgments that Putin preferred Trump over Clinton, the document reads. The ICA misrepresented these reports as reliable, without mentioning their significant underlying flaws. The Obama ICA report failed to consider plausible alternative explanations of Putins intentions, according to the new document. Officials also rushed the report to publish two weeks before President-elect Trump was sworn-in. These failures were serious enough to call into question judgments that allege Putin developed a clear preference for candidate Trump and aspired to help his chances of victory, the document reads. A 180 Degree Shift Top American intelligence officials assessed before the 2016 election that Russia could not influence the outcome, according to documents released by Gabbard on July 18. But after Trumps victory, Obama held a meeting with top officials, ordered them to create the ICA about how Russia supposedly influenced the election to elect Trump. Americans will finally learn the truth about how in 2016, intelligence was politicized and weaponized by the most powerful people in the Obama Administration to lay the groundwork for what was essentially a years-long coup against President @realDonaldTrump, subverting the pic.twitter.com/UQKKZ5c4Op DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) July 18, 2025 Officials canceled an Obama briefing, which would have contradicted the Trump-Russia narrative on December 8, 2017. The next day, Obama held a meeting with then-FBI Director James Comey, then-CIA Director John Brennan, and then-Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. He ordered them to create the ICA, detailing the tools Moscow used and the actions it took to influence the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obama officials leaked this classified information to outlets like The Washington Post and NBC News, pushing the Trump-Russia collusion narrative. Clapper unveiled the ICA report on January 6, 2017 just days before Trump would take office. Officials used the discredited Christopher Steele dossier to create this report, according to Gabbard. She called it a gross weaponization of intelligence that laid the groundwork for a years-long coup intended to subvert President Trumps entire presidency. After Donald Trump was elected, led by President Obama, there was an effort to create a document that would serve as a foundation for what would be a years-long coup against President Trump, therefore trying to subvert the will of the American people, Gabbard said on July 22, 2025, on Fox News. BREAKING: DNI Tulsi Gabbard just FIRED BACK at Obamas statement on the Trump-Russia conspiracy pic.twitter.com/m1cFR7idZR [Hes] just trying to deflect away from what actually happened." "Led by President Obama, there was an effort to create a document that would serve as a Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) July 22, 2025 Obama Spokesman Patrick Rodenbush dismissed these concerns, according to Axios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Rodenbush said. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. But Gabbard said on Fox News that Obama and other Democrats are echoing that exact same statement, failing to address the allegations directly. Its the art of deflection, she said. There was a shift-a 180-degree shiftfrom the intelligence communitys assessment leading up to the election, to the one that President Obama directed be produced after Donald Trump won the election. Theres a long laundry list of facts and intelligence reporting that directly contradict the statement coming from President Obamas office, Gabbard continued, and those who are trying to deflect away from what actually happened. Setting lobster traps in Casco Bay. (Photo by AnnMarie Hilton/Maine Morning Star) U.S. Rep. Jared Golden is asking the U.S. House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee to continue shielding Maine lobstermen from new regulations to protect North Atlantic right whales until 2035. The Democrat from Maines 2nd Congressional District worked with the rest of the Maine delegation, as well as Gov. Janet Mills, to insert a provision in a 2022 federal omnibus funding bill to restrict new whale-related regulations on the lobster industry through Dec. 31, 2028. Because of their dwindling population, the government has sought to impose certain regulations to protect right whales, such as fishing restrictions in certain areas of federal waters during seasons when whales are present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Golden is pushing for a seven year extension to that moratorium, which was submitted by U.S. Rep. Nick Begich, a Republican from Alaska. The House committees Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries met Tuesday to discuss a draft amendment to the Marine Mammal Protection Act to create that extension. Meanwhile, the regulations have been tangled up in lawsuits, fueling Goldens argument that regulators need more time to incorporate updated research and data while fishermen could prepare for the new regulations. During the panel discussion, Golden urged his colleagues to support the amendment, arguing it would give the government the time it needs to craft regulations based on real science, reliable data and input from Mainers. And it would give lobstermen the time they need to prepare for whatever additional costs and changes to their harvesting practices may be required by new regulations. Found along the East Coast, right whales migratory paths overlap with highly productive lobster fishing areas in Maine and Massachusetts, making entanglements in fishing gear one of the major threats for the animals. With a population of less than 400 and even fewer reproductively active females, right whales are approaching extinction with more than half a dozen threats to their existence, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Marine Mammal Protection Act, established in 1972, prohibits marine mammals from harassment, hunting, capturing or killing in U.S. waters, with some exceptions. Golden said he has serious concerns with the law and would like to see it changed so it cant be used to shut down entire fisheries and the communities they support. Maines lobster fishery is valued at more than $500 million, according to 2024 data from the Maine Department of Marine Resources. Knowing the cultural and financial significance for Maine, Golden said one of his proudest accomplishments in Congress was the efforts in 2022 from the Maine delegation and Mills to enact the moratorium on right whale protection regulations and fund right whale research to provide additional data for regulatory decisions. Golden also submitted a letter signed by the Maine Lobstering Union, Maine Lobster Association, New England Fishermens Stewardship Association and Downeast Lobstermens Association in support of the draft amendment. Maines fishermen are responsible stewards of our marine resources, Golden said. No one is more invested than they are in ensuring a healthy ocean ecosystem. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) Horry County police are investigating an apparent road-rage shooting that happened early Wednesday morning along Highway 57 near Riverside Elementary School, according to an incident report. It happened at about 2:15 a.m. when a dark-colored SUV with tinted windows pulled alongside the victims car near the school and began shooting as the victim turned off Highway 57 onto Sunny Heights Road, the report said. The victim told officers that the SUV did not follow him as he continued toward his residence, the report said. He also said he had no idea who the shooter might have been. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one was hurt in the incident, but officers did find damage to the rear of the victims car that was consistent with the appearance of bullet holes, the report said. Police are continuing to investigate the incident. * * * 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. Gaza City The head of Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City said on Tuesday that 21 children had died across the Palestinian territory in the past three days "due to malnutrition and starvation." "These deaths were recorded at hospitals in Gaza, including Al-Shifa in Gaza City, Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah and Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis ... over the past 72 hours," Mohammed Abu Salmiya told reporters. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned Monday evening that "the last lifelines keeping people alive are collapsing" in Gaza, and that there were growing reports of children and adults exhibiting symptoms of malnutrition. Abu Salmiya told reporters that new cases of malnutrition and starvation were arriving at Gaza's remaining functioning hospitals "every moment," adding: "We are heading towards alarming numbers of deaths due to the starvation inflicted on the people of Gaza." In a statement issued Tuesday, the U.N. human rights office said many people were arriving at Gaza's hospitals "in a state of severe exhaustion caused by a lack of food. Others are collapsing in the streets. Many more may be dying unreported ... These deaths and the horrendous physical and psychological suffering caused by hunger are the result of Israel's interference with and militarization of humanitarian assistance." Palestinian mother Alaa Al-Najjar mourns her three-month-old baby Yehia, who died due to malnutrition amid a hunger crisis according to medics at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, July 20, 2025. / Credit: Hatem Khaled/REUTERS Photos emerging from Gaza in recent days have shown children and infants with severe malnutrition, including some said by hospital workers to have died of the condition. According to the National Institutes of Health, severe malnutrition typically causes symptoms including dramatic wasting, or fat and muscle loss, poor circulation and extreme fatigue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Hospitals are already overwhelmed by the number of casualties from gunfire. They can't provide much more help for hunger-related symptoms because of food and medicine shortages," Khalil al-Deqran, a spokesperson for the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health, told the Reuters news agency. Deqran said there were 600,000 people suffering from malnutrition symptoms such as dehydration and anemia, including 60,000 pregnant women. After talks to extend a six-week ceasefire broke down, Israel imposed a full blockade on Gaza on March 2 this year, allowing no aid in until trucks were again permitted to cross the border in late May. The U.N. and aid organizations say the quantity of food and other emergency supplies being allowed into Gaza since then has been vastly insufficient, however. Food stocks accumulated inside the Palestinian territory during the ceasefire have depleted, leaving the territory's more than two million inhabitants experiencing the worst shortages since the start of the war sparked by the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Some 1,200 Israelis were killed and 251 others taken hostage during that siege more than 650 days ago, and 20 of the captives are still thought to be alive in Gaza. World Food Program director Carl Skau, who visited Gaza City in early July, called the situation "the worst" he had ever seen. Last Sunday, the civil defense agency in Hamas-run Gaza reported that at least three infants had died from "severe hunger and malnutrition" over the previous week. Zainab Abu Haleeb, a five-month-old Palestinian girl diagnosed with malnutrition, according to medics, lies on a bed as she receives treatment at the al-Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, July 15, 2025. / Credit: Hussam Al-Masri/REUTERS On Monday, the governments of 25 countries, including Israeli and U.S. allies Britain, France, Australia and Canada, urged an immediate end to the war, the unconditional release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and the free flow of aid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In their joint statement, they accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's U.S.-backed government of the "drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children" in Gaza. The nations also condemned a new system for aid distribution backed by Israel's military that was launched in late May with the support of the Trump administration, but no support from other nations or humanitarian organizations. The U.N.'s human rights office said Tuesday that Israeli forces have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians trying to get food aid in Gaza since the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation started operations on May 26. Officially a private effort, the GHF began working in Gaza with virtually no information provided about its funding or management after Israel imposed the more than two-month blockade on all supplies entering Gaza. The group's operations, focused around four "humanitarian hubs" for food distribution, have been marred by chaotic scenes and near-daily reports of Israeli forces firing on people waiting to collect rations in the Palestinian territory, where the Israeli military is seeking to destroy Hamas. "As of July 21, we have recorded 1,054 people killed in Gaza while trying to get food; 766 of them were killed in the vicinity of GHF sites and 288 near U.N. and other humanitarian organizations' aid convoys," U.N. human rights office spokesman Thameen Al-Kheetan told the AFP news agency. He said the agency's data was "based on information from multiple reliable sources on the ground, including medical teams, humanitarian and human rights organizations." GHF says it has distributed more than 1.4 million boxes of foodstuffs to date and that it adjusts its "operations in real time to keep people safe and informed, and we stand ready to partner with other organizations to scale up and deliver more meals to the people of Gaza." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. and major aid groups have refused to cooperate with the GHF over concerns it was designed to cater to Israeli military objectives and violates basic humanitarian principles. The group has never commented, despite numerous questions from CBS News, on any links it has with the U.S. or Israeli governments. The Trump administration announced its first public support for the GHF $30 million in funding earlier this month, and called on other organizations and countries to cooperate with the group, saying that, in its view, it provides the only means of delivering aid in Gaza without the risk of Hamas stealing it. Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Idaho murders victims' families speak out at Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Washington The House Oversight Committee on Wednesday subpoenaed Ghislaine Maxwell, an accomplice of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein who is serving a 20-year prison sentence, to sit for a deposition as fallout over the Trump administration's handling of the case intensifies. "The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr. Epstein's cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny," Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, the chairman of the committee, wrote to Maxwell. Comer said the committee is seeking Maxwell's testimony "to inform the consideration of potential legislative solutions to improve federal efforts to combat sex trafficking and reform the use of non-prosecution agreements and/or plea agreements in sex-crime investigations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee wants the deposition to take place on Aug. 11 at the Federal Correctional Institution Tallahassee, where Maxwell is imprisoned. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for her role in helping Epstein recruit, groom and abuse underage girls. She is serving a 20-year prison sentence. Epstein died in federal custody in 2019 as he faced sex trafficking charges. A top Justice Department official is also planning to meet with Maxwell "soon," and the government has asked federal courts overseeing the Epstein and Maxwell cases to release material from federal grand juries. The department said earlier this month that a review of evidence in Epstein case turned up no indication of a "client list" and said no more files would be released, citing victims' privacy. The decision sparked fierce backlash from President Trump's supporters who have called for more transparency into the case for years. Earlier Wednesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson said he had concerns about Maxwell providing testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If they see fit to bring in Ghislaine Maxwell for testimony, that's fine," the Louisiana Republican said. "I will note the obvious concern ... Could she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? I mean, this is a person who's been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts and acts against innocent young people." Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Rep. Ted Lieu says provisions of Trump's AI Action Plan have "massive implementation issues" NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) When it comes to the committee tasked with shaping the future of education in Tennessee, House Democrats have been left out of the lesson plan. The newly formed Advisory Committee on Innovations in K-12 Education is charged with suggesting potential legislative ideas related to education. While the Speaker of the Senate, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, appointed one Senate Democrat to serve on the committee, Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton chose four Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet again, theyre attempting to silence the voice of Democrats, House Democratic Caucus Chair, Rep. John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville) said. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Rep. Clemmons sent a letter to Speaker Sexton asking that at least one member of his caucus have a seat at the table. He cited what he calls failed policies supported and passed by the Republican supermajority, including the states school voucher program, charter schools, and third-grade retention law. These are all harmful education policies that have detrimentally impacted the children across Tennessee in all 95 counties and their families, so limiting the representation on an advisory committee on K-12 education to simply Republicans who have supported those harmful policies is very concerning, Rep. Clemmons said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, recent TCAP test results show an overall, steady improvement in students scores. In addition, Republicans have also passed legislation raising the minimum teacher pay to $50,000 by the 2026-2027 school year and bills focused on tackling Tennessees teacher shortage. Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom Despite that, Rep. Clemmons argued the whole point of the committee is to come up with the best solutions for Tennessee students and teachers, which are created through diverse ideas. No political party has a monopoly on good ideas. Every perspective, every opinion should be valued, Rep. Clemmons said. I get that were in a superminority here, but we represent an overwhelming majority of Tennesseans views on public education, and those views should be represented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Democrats asked Speaker Sexton to replace a Republican appointee with a House Democrat prior to the committees next meeting on July 24. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com News 2 reached out to Speaker Sextons office for comment and is waiting to hear back. This article will be updated once there is a response. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. House Republicans are moving to create a long-delayed select subcommittee to investigate the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack more than six months after it was initially announced. A resolution to create the subcommittee was filed on Wednesday, GOP leaders tell The Hill, after months of it being put on the backburner and lawmakers hashing out disputes over how much the panel would be authorized to investigate. Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), who is leading the effort, got direct support from President Trump in pushing to finally create the committee, The Hill has learned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will still be weeks before the committee is established. With the House heading out of town over the August recess, a vote on the resolution to create the select committee is not expected until the chamber returns in September. As a select subcommittee, all the members will be subject to the approval of the Speaker. The select subcommittee will be tucked under the House Judiciary Committee and chaired by Loudermilk, who led probes into Jan. 6 matters in the last Congress under the banner of the House Administration Committees subcommittee on oversight. Loudermilks previous investigations included the Capitol security posture, as well as the activities of the Democratic-led Jan. 6 committee established after Trump supporters stormed the building in support of his fraud claims. House Republicans are proud of our work so far in exposing the false narratives peddled by the politically motivated January 6 Select Committee during the 117th Congress, but there is clearly more work to be done, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said in a statement first shared with The Hill. The resolution introduced today will establish this Select Subcommittee so we can continue our efforts to uncover the full truth that is owed to the American people. House Republicans remain intent on delivering the answers that House Democrats skipped over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loudermilk had secured a commitment to lead a select subcommittee to further investigate Jan. 6 issues in this Congress, and Johnson announced the panel in January. But months went by and no committee was established, frustrating Loudermilk. Matters from a government shutdown deadline to the crafting of Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill took precedence. There were also disputes about what the legislative jurisdiction of the panel would be, with Loudermilk wanting to carry on all the lines of inquiry from his previous probes and being dismayed by the Speakers office originally pitching a plan that would limit the jurisdiction to that of the House Judiciary Committee. Those jurisdictional issues were resolved, a source told The Hill. The panel has the Judiciary Committees broad scope over law enforcement and more when investigating matters related to Jan. 6 as well as a commitment from chairmen from other areas of jurisdiction and the White House to green-light probes into any other lines of inquiry. That could include more investigation into the original Democratic-controlled Jan. 6 panel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loudermilk will also have full subpoena power. The panel will have eight members, three of whom will be members appointed by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) subject to the Speakers approval. It is instructed to release a final report by Dec. 31, 2026. Loudermilk said in a statement that while his previous probes uncovered that what happened at the Capitol that day was the result of a series of intelligence, security, and leadership failures at multiple levels within numerous entities, there is still much work to be done. It is vital that we continue to uncover the facts and begin the task of making needed reforms to ensure this level of security failure may never happen again, Loudermilk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) took a swipe at the previous Democratic-led Jan. 6 committee while commending Loudermilk. The partisan January 6 Committee failed to uncover crucial pieces of information for the American people, and Rep. Loudermilk has been the leader in getting to the bottom of the Democrat-run Committees failures. Rep. Loudermilk will continue to work tirelessly to get everyone the truth, Jordan said in a statement. The Democrats previous Jan. 6 panel drew Trumps ire and its members, which included now-Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), received a preemptive pardon from former President Biden on his last day in office amid threats of prosecution. House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), who also sat on the original Jan. 6 Committee, painted the effort as a way to distract from the uproar in the GOP over lack of disclosures from the Trump administration relating to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yay, Donald Trump got his way with Speaker Johnson again! Raskin said as part of a lengthy statement responding to the effort. I know its another desperate and laughable ploy by Trump to change the subject from the Epstein Files, which the whole country will keep demanding until its released in full, but I confess that Im delighted to hear our Republicans colleagues are going to carry out another self-inflicted political wound by creating a nationwide televised opportunity to review their ongoing complicity with, and apologetics for, violent insurrection and Donald Trumps sinister attempt to overthrow a presidential election which he lost to President Biden by more than 7 million votes, 306-232 in the Electoral College. Raskin also called on Johnson to comply with a measure previously approved by the House to hand up a plaque in honor of the police officers who defended American democracy against Trumps treachery and violent mob. Loudermilk and Jordan both have some personal beef with the original Jan. 6 committee. Jordan refused to comply with a subpoena it issued him, arguing it was not a legitimate inquiry. And the panel asked the Georgia lawmaker to appear voluntarily to explain a tour he gave in the Capitol complex on Jan. 5, 2021 a request he said was meant to push a false narrative. Loudermilks previous panel released an interim report in December 2024 that recommended a criminal investigation into Cheney, accusing her of witness tampering by being in touch with star hearing witness Cassidy Hutchinson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 6:44 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Pressure on Capitol Hill to release the Epstein files continues to build even though lawmakers are heading home through Labor Day. The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epsteins former girlfriend, for a deposition in Florida next month. Earlier, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) worried about how truthful she might be while under oath. Now, the lawmakers who pushed for more information are headed home for a month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson is pushing back against insinuations that hes dismissing Congress early to avoid a vote to release the Epstein files. No one is adjourning early, he said after shutting down the House Rules committee and cancelling votes for the remainder of the week. Democrats and Republicans have put pressure on Johnson to allow the House to vote on a measure calling for the DOJ to release the Epstein files. Theres no point in having a vote today because the administration is already doing everything in their power to release them, said Johnson. Some Republicans remain optimistic theyll see the documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think in the next, over the recess period, you will have some things released, said Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.). House Democratic leadership criticized Johnson and Republicans for not allowing the vote. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is questioning what Republicans are hiding. Republicans are on the run, said Jeffries. A federal judge in Florida denied the DOJs request to release the grand jury testimony in the Epstein case. The DOJ is still pushing for the New York grand jury to release its files. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) House Republicans ended their week early after Democrats threatened to force a vote on the Jeffrey Epstein files. Some House Republicans have joined with Democrats to force a vote on the release of more records from the Epstein case. President Donald Trump is trying to unite Republicans by talking about former president Barack Obama and the 2016 Russia investigation. People are afraid of getting crossways with the White House. But they need to remember, this was a promise, said Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie and several House Republicans teamed up with a Democrat, Ro Khanna, to try to force a vote for the complete release of the Epstein files but instead of voting on it House leaders canceled all of the votes this week. Theyre literally adjourning Congress because they dont want to face the voters, said Khanna. President Trump last week directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to release credible information from the grand jury transcripts. Theres no purpose for Congress to push an administration to do something that theyre already doing, said House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massie says thats not enough. There are hundreds of pages of documents. There are plea deals, agreements that we dont know about, said Massie. President Trump turned the attention from the Epstein case to some familiar opponents. Obama was trying to lead a coup. And it was with Hillary Clinton and with all these other people, said Trump. President Trump is referencing a report released by the Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. It appears to try to downplay Russian interference in the 2016 election. Multiple investigations, including a bipartisan investigation in the Senate, found Russia tried to interfere in the 2016 election. Advertisement 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. We recently published 10 Most Undervalued Pharma Stocks To Buy Now. Merck & Co., Inc. stands seventh on our list and recently boosted Keytruda's production. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK), a global biopharmaceutical leader headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey, is renowned for its innovation in oncology, vaccines, and specialty medicines. In June 2025, the FDA approved KEYTRUDA for perioperative use in adults with resectable, locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) expressing PD-L1 (CPS 1). This marks the first approval of an anti-PD-1 therapy in the perioperative setting, allowing use both before and after surgery, combined with radiotherapy and as a standalone treatment. This milestone supports the companys strategy to move immunotherapy into earlier stages of cancer care. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is also expanding its oncology pipeline, sharing promising updates on KRAS G12C inhibitor MK-1084, zilovertamab vedotin, and sacituzumab tirumotecan, as well as new analyses of KEYTRUDA across over 25 cancer types. Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) Breaks Ground on $1B Biologics Hub to Boost KEYTRUDA Production A pharmacist technician sorting pills in a drug pharmacy. To meet growing demand and support biologics innovation, Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) began construction of a $1 billion Biologics Center of Excellence in Wilmington, Delaware, in April 2025. The 470,000-square-foot facility will focus on next-gen biologics and serve as the U.S. manufacturing hub for KEYTRUDA, bolstering supply chain resilience and production capacity. While we acknowledge the potential of MRK as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. A rebellion over the Jeffrey Epstein files by Republican leadership allies on the House Rules Committee is giving Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) one of the trickiest conundrums of his Speakership so far. Members on the panel often called the Speakers Committee in reference to it being a tool of leadership held up action on a host of planned legislation this week because they were terrified of Democrats forcing more tough votes on releasing the Epstein files. Democrats are trying to force a vote on a bipartisan resolution that would compel the publication of the files. Johnsons handpicked GOP Rules Committee members, meanwhile, are pressing him to bring up an alternative, nonbinding resolution to release the documents. But its not clear that the GOP-crafted measure could garner enough support in the slim majority to pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sign up for the latest from The Hill here Stymied by the Epstein debate and unable to bring up anything but noncontroversial bills under suspension of the rules because of the standstill, House GOP leaders canceled votes scheduled for Thursday sending House members home for August recess one day early. Unlike other fights during Johnsons Speakership, the problem this time isnt hard-line conservatives in the House Freedom Caucus, but rather members Johnson has counted on in the past to push his priorities through the Rules Committee and to the House floor. Rep. Erin Houchin (R-Ind.), who sits on the Rules Committee, raised concerns with having to vote on the Democratic-led amendment during a private meeting with leadership and other top House leaders Monday, two sources told The Hill. She advocated for voting on the Republican resolution or a different measure for transparency, one of the sources said, which have key differences from the Democratic-crafted measure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while members of the hard-line conservative House Freedom Caucus who sit on the panel namely Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) are also advocating for more Epstein disclosures, multiple sources tell The Hill it is primarily concerns from other members holding up committee action. Johnson has publicly defended the holdup in the Rules Committee by saying Republicans will not allow Democrats political games. We are not going to let them use this as a political battering ram. The Rules Committee became the ground for them to do that. Were not going to allow them to engage in that charade anymore, Johnson said in a press conference Tuesday. But by acquiescing to his members demands to stall planned House action over fear of the Democratic committee votes, Democrats are getting a win in their endeavor to squeeze Republicans on the issue and keep it and GOP infighting in the headlines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demands from Rules Committee Republicans for a parallel alternative to Democratic amendments marks a stark departure from the normal business in the House. The normal legislative game in Congress is for the minority party to try to force the majority party into politically tricky votes, and the majority party to dismiss those efforts a dynamic that Republican strategist Brendan Buck, a former aide to former Speakers Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and John Boehner (R-Ohio), alluded to in a post on the social platform X. Respectfully, Rs on the Rules committee need to toughen up a bit and vote down these amendments. Thats sort of your job, Buck said. I promise you wont lose your seat over a few procedural committee votes. The Speaker has the sole authority to appoint Republican members to the panel and to remove them. One option for Johnson, if he were to take a tough stance, is to replace the members who are nervous about the Epstein votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Johnson, who has become known for being exceedingly patient with and sympathetic to all corners of the House GOP, is letting the members take the stand for now hoping the upcoming August recess will create the time and space to resolve the Epstein issues. Asked about the possibility of replacing the Rules Committee members who are holding up action, Johnson told The Hill: No, I havent considered that at all. They serve at the Speakers request, and so long as theyre willing to volunteer for that service. Its not an easy job. So well see, Johnson said. For now, Johnson is stuck in a difficult balancing act of weighing the eagerness among members to cast a vote in favor of releasing the Epstein documents, the outcry from the MAGA base, and his vested interest in placating Trump, who has urged GOP lawmakers to drop the matter all while trying to manage the House floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Speaker is largely deferring to the efforts by the Trump administration to offer transparency on the matter. Relenting to the outcry from the base, Trump last week directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of grand jury transcripts in the Epstein matter. And the Department of Justice said Tuesday it would seek new information from Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins ex-girlfriend and accomplice. Between those actions and the nonbinding Epstein disclosure resolution the Rules Committee Republicans advanced last week, leaders had hoped the now monthlong Epstein drama may die down in the House this week. Johnson said he would not bring the nonbinding resolution up before the August recess. Thats peeving some Rules members. Norman, a Rules Committee member who is part of the Freedom Caucus, is openly calling for a vote on the GOP-led resolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I led Republicans in a serious resolution that protects victims to expose the truth about the Epstein files, just like President Trump promised. But leadership is stalling, Norman wrote Tuesday on X. The American people deserve action, not excuses. Lets vote on it before August recess and get it DONE!! But its unclear that could pass in the razor-thin majority, given several Republicans throwing their support behind a bipartisan measure from Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.). Their measure would have more legal weight to force release of documents. Massie and Khanna are planning to use the discharge petition measure, a procedural gambit to override leadership and force measures to the floor with 218 signatures. Discharge petitions are rarely successful, but with 11 Republicans so far in support of the measure, Massie and Khanna are projecting confidence they can force the vote when the House returns in September. Johnson on Tuesday expressed his frustrations with Massie, who has become a top GOP antagonist of Trump in Congress, for spearheading the push. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont understand Thomas Massies motivation, I really dont. I dont know how his mind works. I dont know what hes thinking. Thomas Massie could have brought his discharge petition any time over the last four and a half years, Johnson said, adding the ultimate Southern dig: Bless his heart. Asked what her panel was doing Tuesday, House Rules Committee Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) told The Hill: Nothing, right now. The holdup is frustrating Republicans in other corners of the conference. Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.), the lead sponsor of an immigration enforcement bill that was scheduled to come for a House vote after being approved by the Rules panel, expressed her disappointment it was delayed over the Epstein drama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do think that we do need to come to some sort of resolution, though, sooner rather than later. We cannot let this drag on, Bice told reporters Tuesday. Rep. Gregory Murphy (R-N.C.) lamented that the topic is taking away attention from other GOP priorities. This is so myopic. We should be working on the things of trade, health care, all the things that matter rather than bringing out information which potentially and probably will damage a bunch of absolutely innocent lives, Murphy 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. U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Zeeland) campaigns in Lansing on Aug. 27, 2022. (Andrew Roth | Michigan Advance) Updated at 1:34 p.m. U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Holland Township) announced today that he is out of the race to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Township). The Detroit News was first to report Huizengas decision, which had been brewing for months with rumors that he was staffing up for a bid to become Michigans junior senator in the 2026 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On X, Huizenga posted a statement noting that he was no longer considering a bid for the upper chamber, adding that he came to that conclusion after consulting his wife, Natalie, his family, and President Donald Trump. I am proud of our effort and am grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement I received from Michiganders across our great state, Huizenga wrote. I look forward to announcing my future plans later this year. After careful consideration with Natalie and my family, as well as in consultation with President Trump, I have decided against a bid for U.S. Senate in Michigan. I am proud of our effort and am grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement I received from Michiganders Bill Huizenga (@billhuizenga) July 23, 2025 The decision leaves the race wide open at this point for former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake), who sought one of Michigans U.S. Senate seats last year when it came time to replace the retired former U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow. Rogers lost that 2024 contest to current U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), even with the full backing of the national and statewide Republican parties and Trump, who endorsed him and propped up Rogers at every turn. Some questioned whether Rogers, who certainly has a great deal of name recognition in Michigan, was the ideal candidate after his bruising loss to Slotkin. As the only real contender on the Republican side of the race, his recent campaign finance reports showed he was behind his Democratic Party opponents in fundraising, despite his campaigns insistence otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others noted then that Huizenga had raised more in his congressional fundraising efforts than Rogers, and opened the door for him to make a decision on whether to jump in. On Wednesday, Huizenga backed out, clearing the runway for Rogers campaign to take off. The Republican Senate Leadership Fund, which is backing Rogers early in the cycle, released a statement on Huizengas decision, reiterating its support for Rogers. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Theres no doubt that Mike Rogers is poised to be Michigans next U.S. Senator, and Senate Leadership Fund will support his campaign every step of the way, Alex Latcham, the funds executive director, said in a statement. Leader Thune and Chairman Scott supported Mike Rogers from the beginning and now is the time to unite and let Democrats fight over their First Place Loser. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also commenting was the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Bill Huizenga has spent this entire year proving to Southwest Michiganders he has zero desire to represent them. From his vote to kick Michiganders off their health care and raise their costs while giving tax cuts to billionaires, to his rubber stamping of reckless tariffs that mean higher prices for families, its clear Huizenga works for the special interests and is out-of-step with Southwest Michiganders. Next year Michiganders will elect new leadership who will actually work for them, said spokesperson Katie Smith. With the question of Huizengas senatorial interests resolved, the question of whether he will now turn his efforts toward a reelection campaign for his Michigan 4th Congressional District seat remains open. The last line of Huizengas statement, in which he said he would announce his future plans at a later date, left open the possibility that something else might be on the horizon, or that he could possibly eschew retaking his seat altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huizenga spokesperson Brian Patrick told Michigan Advance that, every two years, the congressman and his wife have a conversation about his future. That conversation is coming, Patrick said. This is no different than any other term. And well let folks know. There will be an announcement later this year. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo) recently announced he would seek the nomination, and issued a statement following Huizengas announcement. Bill Huizenga doesnt work for the people of Southwest Michigan, instead he serves special interests and leaves working families behind. While Huizenga votes to kick people off their healthcare, give billionaires tax cuts, and does nothing to get prices down, I will fight for middle-class tax relief, lowering your costs, and bringing good-paying jobs back to our communities like I always have. Its time Washington focused on regular people, McCann said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also in the running is Kalamazoo attorney Jessica Swartz, IT and Cybersecurity professional Richard Aaron and former Congressional staffer Diop Harris, each seeking to claim the district for Democrats. This story was updated with comment from state Sen. Sean McCann. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) said Wednesday he was passing on a Senate run in the Great Lakes State after Republicans had voiced concerns of a primary between the congressman and former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich.). After careful consideration with Natalie and my family, as well as in consultation with President Trump, I have decided against a bid for U.S. Senate in Michigan, Huizenga said in a statement. I am proud of our effort and am grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement I received from Michiganders across our great state, he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Huizenga was not definitive on what his next move would be, saying he looks forward to announcing his future plans later this year. If he had decided on a Senate bid, Huizenga would have faced off against Rogers, an establishment favorite, who came within less than a point of defeating Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) in last years competitive Senate race. Rogers received the backing of Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Tim Scott (R-S.C.) following his 2026 campaign launch in April. Last week, Rogerss campaign said he raised more than $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2025. Unlike Republicans, Michigan Democrats are facing a contentious primary battle between establishment favorite Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), state Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D), and former progressive gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nonpartisan Cook Political Report rates the states Senate race as a toss up. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The latest report by Human Rights Watch outlines substandard living conditions for detainees at three Florida Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centers. The nongovernmental advocacy group that monitors human rights abuses around the world released their findings on Monday, after interviewing 11 currently and recently detained individuals who had been held at the following Florida detention centers: Krome North Service Processing Center, the Broward Transitional Center and the Federal Detention Center. Additionally, family members of seven detainees and 14 immigration lawyers were interviewed as part of the 92-page report. It claimed that the centers "flagrantly violate international human rights standards" and that guards had treated detainees in "a degrading and dehumanizing manner." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A female detainee at Krome recalled being crammed into a holding cell with dozens of other women without proper sleeping accommodations and under unsanitary conditions. "There was only one toilet, and it was covered in feces," she claimed. "We begged the officers to let us clean it, but they just said sarcastically, 'Housekeeping will come soon.' No one ever came." Other women detainees at Krome described how they were shackled while in a bus for hours without being provided any food or water. One man on the bus called it "disgusting." Read more: Deaf, mute and terrified: ICE arrests DACA recipient and ships him to Texas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It contained a single toilet that did not really flush. It was the type of toilet in which normally people only urinate," he claimed. "But because we were on the bus for so long, and we were not permitted to leave it, others defecated in the toilet. Because of this, the whole bus smelled strongly of feces." All eight detainees who were interviewed at Krome alleged they had spent days on end in processing cells called la hielera, due to its freezing temperatures. Interviewees claimed there was no bedding in the frigid rooms and they were not provided proper clothing to maintain warm. You could not fall asleep because it was so cold. I thought I was going to experience hypothermia," one 27-year-old detainee from Honduras said. Women at Krome also claimed that they were held in processing alongside men, were forced to use the restroom in front of men and not given appropriate medical care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Men at the Federal Detention Center alleged they were constantly mocked and humiliated by guards and the medical staff. A pair of detainees recalled being shackled to other men in a cramped cell for hours on end and claimed they were subjected to invasive cavity searches without justification after receiving visitors. When I returned to my cell after a visit, I had to get completely naked in front of a guard, turn around, bend down and get on all fours and cough," one detainee claimed. Read more: Latino neighborhoods overwhelmingly targeted in immigration raids, rights group says One man said he was denied essential medications and held overnight in a poorly maintained exam room without food or water, all while he was coughing up blood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detainees recalled having to "eat like animals" during mealtimes at the Federal Detention Center. "At 7 p.m., they finally gave us lunch, but only after another guard protested on our behalf," one man alleged. "We were chained though, so we could not reach the plates with our hands. We had to put the plates on chairs and then bend down and eat with our mouths, like dogs." Those experiencing mental health issues while held at the Broward Transitional Center are allegedly being thrown into solitary confinement for weeks. "If you ask for help, they isolate you. If you cry, they might take you away for two weeks," one female detainee said. "So, people stay silent." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's claimed that the Broward center was also consistently performing lockdowns, during which detainees were allegedly denied access to medical attention and unable to go outside for days at a time. Those interviewed in the report said that maneuvers, such as lockdowns, impromptu detention center transfers and limited phone access, blocked detainees from having communication with the outside world and adversely affected their mental health. Read more: ICE is gaining access to trove of Medicaid records, adding new peril for immigrants In a statement to The Times, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin denied the Human Rights Watch's claims regarding the state of the ICE detention centers. "Any claim that there are subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are FALSE. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers," McLaughlin's statement read. "Ensuring the safety, security and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE. ICE has higher detention standards than most U.S. prisons that hold actual U.S. citizens." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McLaughlin also explicitly addressed the claims about women detained at Krome Detention Center. "Additionally, it is not uncommon for female detainees to be staged at Krome Detention Center," she wrote. "Female detainees are not placed into general population and male detainees have absolutely ZERO access to female detainees. Like all detainees these women have access to medical care." Get our Latinx Files newsletter for stories that capture the complexity of our communities. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. MURRAY, Utah (ABC4) The Humane Society of Utah averages about 400 or so volunteers. People here in Utah are giving their time, attention and love to animals looking for a new home. For the past four years, most weeks, Shelly Martin walks the dogs at the Humane Society of Utah. Martin explained, There is no greater stress reliever than loving a dog or an animal. The Murray location is a very busy place. People coming, going, and working, but for the volunteers just like Martin this time is just about the animals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My only focus is the dog and all the dog wants is love, unconditional love, and they give it. So for me, I just get to step away from my family and career and focus on the dog, Martin said. There is a long list of opportunities for what volunteers can do for the Humane Society of Utah. Jolie Gordon, the Volunteer Coordinator, listed some of them off, They can walk dogs, do dishes and laundry are always a thing, field trips, thank you notes, and musicians. I need musicians to play for the animals, the volunteers, and staff. All the work is for the dogs, cats, rabbits, and small animals to help them find a forever home. Fortunately, most of them dont stay too long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martin has seen the quick movement firsthand. She said, Ill come in on a Sunday and Ill walk the shelter and learn who all of the dogs are, and by the time I come back the next week, they have all found their own forever home. Volunteers are making the time for animals inside the center as good as possible. And bringing real joy to the volunteer spending their time at the Humane Society of Utah. Martin explained it very simply, You cant walk out of here and not feel love. The Humane Society of Utah is always looking for more volunteers. You can find information for that by clicking here. And while you are on their website, you might find your own friend to take home. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. Humanity will have consumed the Earths annual supply of natural resources by Thursday, according to the Global Footprint Network. Known as Earth Overshoot Day, the date changes every year and marks the point at which humanity uses more farmland, forests and fish stocks, and emit more carbon dioxide (CO2), than ecosystems can regenerate or absorb. "This shows our current economic and consumption model is overstretching the planet and endangering our future and that pressure is still growing," conservation group WWF said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German environmental group BUND warned that the country is among those contributing disproportionately to global ecological strain. If the worlds population lived like Germanys, Earth Overshoot Day would have fallen on May 3, the group said, calling on the German government to drastically cut resource consumption. "We waste our resources as if there's no tomorrow. We overuse our water, soils and forests," BUND chair Olaf Brandt said. The consequences - floods, droughts and extreme weather - are becoming increasingly visible worldwide and here at home, he added. Since the early 1970s, when Earth Overshoot Day fell in late December, the date has crept earlier each year. The Global Footprint Network said expanding renewable electricity to 75% of total electricity use could push Earth Overshoot Day back by nearly four weeks, while halving food waste and car travel could each delay the date by almost two weeks. While many families had hoped for a traditional dorm room for their incoming freshman, hundreds learned on Tuesday that their students would instead be staying at the Hampton Inn, located on Hamlet Street. The hotel is off campus and is nearly a twenty-minute walk to the dining hall, library, and many academic classes. A map of the University of Pittsburgh campus shows that the traditional freshman dorms are located near the academic buildings, main library, and campus dining halls. According to the university, this school year will welcome a record number of incoming freshmen to campus. To accommodate the larger class size, the university will repurpose existing properties to create additional beds and lease space for more accommodations at locations such as Webster Apartments, Pennsylvania Apartments and the Hampton Inn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents in a public Facebook group have been waiting for weeks to receive their students room assignments, only to learn that with less than a month until the August 17 move-in date, their child will be living off-campus at a nearby hotel. Channel 11 News located social media posts from frustrated and confused parents. Many are worried about security, laundry, storage, dining options, and the overall cost. Parents discovered they will be paying hundreds of dollars more for a location they feel is less than suitable for their students. The Hampton Inn is priced at $5,135 per semester for a double room, compared to Litchfield Towers, another freshman dorm, which is priced at $4,385 for the same room layout. This results in a difference of $750 per semester, or $1,500 per year. Another major concern is the distance from the main campus. A quick Google search indicates that the walk from the Hampton Inn to the Cathedral of Learning could take nearly 20 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, the university addressed these concerns. The statement reads in part: All locations are less than a mile from the heart of campus and meet the universitys standards for safety, amenities, and access to campus resources. We expect additional housing assignments to be sent to students later this week. Students admitted to Pitt for the fall semester of their first year are guaranteed on-campus housing through their junior year, assuming they meet the academic and eligibility requirements. Parents who were too frustrated to speak on camera or who preferred to remain anonymous expressed that their children have not yet received their roommate assignment for this location or any move-in details, which means they will miss out on key shipping deals offered by the university. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Hundreds of thousands of doses of mpox vaccine that the United States had promised to send to African nations are in danger of going to waste, dozens of congressional Democrats said in a letter to the U.S. State Department on Wednesday. Forty-eight Democratic members of the House of Representatives, led by Representatives Mark Pocan of Wisconsin and Sara Jacobs of California, signed the letter, saying that the vaccines may expire as they sit in warehouses, wasting the U.S. taxpayer dollars that paid for them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter said 800,000 doses of the vaccines are at risk, and that some 220,000 doses could be viable if the State Department begins shipping them immediately. "This is a moral, strategic, and public health failure in the making," the letter said. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Republican U.S. President Donald Trump has made sharp cuts to foreign aid programs since beginning his second term six months ago, firing thousands of aid agency employees and contractors and throwing global humanitarian operations into chaos. The Republican-controlled Senate and House of Representatives passed legislation this month approving Trump's request for about $8 billion in foreign aid cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has said the U.S. pays disproportionately for foreign aid, and he wants other countries to shoulder more of the burden. The World Health Organization first declared the outbreak of mpox in August 2024, when an outbreak of a new form of the disease spread from the badly-hit Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries. Uganda and Burundi also have been significantly affected. Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close contact and typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. It is usually mild, but can be lethal. The WHO said last month that the outbreak was still a public health emergency of international concern, its highest form of alert. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; editing by Diane Craft) Even in an increasingly shameless age, Hunter Biden is pushing the envelope. For reasons perhaps known only to himself, the former first son has decided to return to the public eye to defend his father further disgracing them both in the process. The younger Biden has spent a lifetime screwing up and then landing on his feet, ostensibly because of his famous surname. He is alleged to have made millions as a lobbyist and for working on international business deals while Joe Biden served as a senator and then as vice-president. He is believed to have made another $1.5 million during his brief career as an artist, which coincidentally corresponded with his fathers tenure in the Oval Office. And he avoided prison time, despite two criminal convictions, after President Biden went back on his word and pardoned him. Thats to say nothing of the drugs or the women or indeed the court testimony of his late brothers widow, who testified that Hunter had introduced her to crack cocaine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, the younger Biden seems to imagine weve forgotten all of this, apparently believing that he is the best man to launch a quixotic solo mission to rescue his familys honour. Instead, however, hes only showcased the Bidens trademark delusion and entitlement. During an interview with Andrew Callaghan released earlier this week, Hunter blamed almost everyone but his father for the Democrats stunning defeat in the 2024 presidential election. What right do you have to step on a man whos given 52 years of his fing life to the service of his country, and decide that you, George Clooney, are going to take out basically a full-page ad in fing The New York Times to undermine the president?, he asked. As if Clooney, a long-time Democratic supporter, who wrote a column in July last year calling on Biden to stand down, had no right to take a view on whether the partys nominee would win the election. About his fathers humiliating performance during his debate with Trump last year, Hunter produced the following excuse: [Joe Biden] flew around the world basically the mileage that he could have flown around the world three times. Hes 81 years old. Hes tired as s. They give him Ambien to be able to sleep. He gets up on the stage, and he looks like hes a deer in the headlights, and it feeds into every fing story that anybody wants to tell. Joe Biden at the presidential debate last June - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP The issue wasnt his fathers disastrous performance, apparently, but the fact that Democrats refused to ignore it. During a separate conversation with former Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison, Hunter claimed: We lost the last election because we did not remain loyal to the leader of the party We had the advantage of incumbency, we had the advantage of an incredibly successful administration, and the Democratic Party literally melted down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats the view out of Bidenworld, a land every bit as fanciful as Narnia, Oz, or Shangri-La. But its more than fanciful. Its shameless. The instinct isnt to come clean as to what really happened, but to attack those who (belatedly) tried to expose the truth. Journalists like Jake Tapper who Hunter appears to have a particular animus for deserve criticism not for shining a light on the extent of the 46th presidents decline and its cover-up, but for failing to do so earlier. And the public simply did not agree that Joe Bidens presidency was incredibly successful. He was on track to lose to Trump well before his debate performance. Also, for the record, being 81 years old and tired as s isnt an excuse for Bidens meltdown, its what was so concerning about it. It is only a little over six months since Joe Biden left the White House, having tarnished his legacy by clinging to power far longer than was appropriate and, yes, by bailing out his disgraceful son. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its said that time heals all wounds. Not in this case. Hunter Biden is picking at an open sore on the face of his party, and its unlikely to recover until he returns to the wilderness for good. Isaac Schorr is an editor at Mediaite 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. Hunter Bidens recent profanity-laced interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan may have been intended as a defense of his fathers failed 2024 campaign, but it landed more like a self-indictment of everything Americans have come to resent about elite entitlement and denial. The son of former President Joe Biden appeared to throw fire at just about everyone, from Hollywood stars to Democratic insiders to journalists. Still, he managed to spare the man at the center of the storm: his father. Hunter lashed out at actor George Clooney, who publicly urged President Biden to step aside in 2024. Clooneys op-ed in The New York Times was published under the title: George Clooney: I Love Joe Biden. But We Need a New Nominee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What right do you have to step on a man whos given 52 years of his fing life to the services of this country? Hunter snapped, addressing his thoughts on Clooney. Hunter, like many in his circle, appears to be allergic to accountability. This makes sense, given that his father pardoned him from multiple felony charges before leaving office, as previously reported by The Dallas Express. When asked about his battle with drug addiction, and specifically crack cocaine, Hunter tried to vocally stop himself from romanticizing how much he enjoyed the drug. Despite his attempt to curtail his enthusiasm, Hunter went on a lengthy rant about how crack cocaine is healthier than alcohol, even detailing how it can be cooked with sodium bicarbonate from a nearby corner store. He also mentioned how he previously had a habit of drinking a fifth of vodka a day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunter was seemingly trying to sell himself throughout the 3-hour interview as a changed, sober, and more responsible man. A man different from the Hunter who reportedly pulled in up to $50,000 a month from a Ukrainian energy company despite having no relevant qualifications. The same Hunter who became a walking liability for the Democratic Party due to his personal scandals and legal troubles. And the same Hunter previously pleaded guilty to federal tax crimes and gun crimes, yet never received punishment. During the interview, Hunter also criticized former Obama adviser David Axelrod and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for not defending his father more aggressively. Pelosi, he claimed, didnt give a full-throated endorsement of Biden in 2024, neglecting to mention that even behind closed doors, many longtime Democratic leaders were urging Biden to step down for the good of the country, as previously reported by DX. Even Hunters defense of Bidens widely criticized debate performance against Trump was bizarrely revealing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes 81 years old; hes tired as s, Hunter offered, explaining that his father was given Ambien to sleep and struggled to rebound onstage. Hunter appeared to save his sharpest criticism for the Democratic Party itself: Why do you think that the Republicans have an advantage over us? Because theyre unified. Key Points Archer Aviation is advancing toward commercial operations of its Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The company is currently in the final phase of the certification process. Failure to achieve the requisite FAA certifications would be devastating for the upstart aviation company. 10 stocks we like better than Archer Aviation For an upstart company like Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) there's no shortage of hurdles that it must overcome. From ensuring that its capital needs are met to forging strategic relationships with manufacturing partners, there are numerous needs for the company to address. But there's one issue that should remain at the forefront of investors' minds regarding the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company over the coming months -- one that undoubtedly is a priority on management's radar. Image source: Getty Images. This above all should be on investors' radars Disrupting the aviation industry as Archer is aiming to do is no simple feat. Of the various issues investors are monitoring as the company approaches commercial operations in the wild blue yonder, Archer's progress toward achieving the requisite certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) should be the most glaring thing on the radar. Archer has high hopes for Midnight, its innovative eVTOL aircraft, but all of these lofty aspirations mean little if the FAA doesn't provide the necessary certifications. Archer reported significant progress in the certification process in 2024, and the company has advanced even closer toward its goal in 2025. In February, for example, Archer received Part 141 certification from the FAA, allowing it to officially proceed with its pilot training program. In Archer's first quarter 2025 financial presentation, management stated that the company is "largely focused on the fourth and final phase of the certification program and have received FAA approval for [about] 15% of the compliance verification documents." Digging a little deeper into why the FAA certification means so much Archer's ambitions are hardly bound to operating in the United States. In addition to to the operations it plans on commencing in New York and Los Angeles, Archer has signed agreements with Abu Dhabi Aviation and Ethiopian Airlines -- two companies that plan to purchase Midnight aircraft and provide service in their respective countries. These plans are surely just the start for Archer's partnership with companies outside of the U.S. But, as it is with the FAA, Archer must secure the necessary permits to operate in the foreign markets where it plans to expand. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) On Monday, the Huntsman Mental Health Institute held an open house for the new walk-in Youth Crisis Care Center that is opening on July 28. Natalie McClintock, LCSW and Behavioral Health Science Manager for Huntsman Mental Health Institute, spoke with ABC4.com and explained what the Youth Crisis Care Center is and what kind of care it will provide. Its going to be a place for youth and their families to come and meet with professionals for youth that are in crisis and be connected with a continuum of care, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbor attempts daring rescue in deadly West Jordan house fire According to a press release, it is a specialized 24/7 crisis stabilization program designed for children and teens experiencing mental health emergencies. This center will address a critical service gap in Utah, according to the press release, where the suicide rate ranks among the nations top 10. McClintock added that it will be the middle ground between inpatient and outpatient care, so it allows further evaluation and observation to determine best next steps. That can be inpatient or further outpatient or other levels of care. In March, Huntsman Mental Health Institute opened the Kem and Carolyn Mental Health Crisis Care Center in South Salt Lake, which is for adults. This Youth Crisis Care Center is going to do the same thing, but for youth. Youth ages 5-17 will be able receive crisis interventions at this new center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Youth Crisis Care Center will be located on the first floor of the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. It will be a walk-in center open 24/7, and there is no need to call ahead, McClintock said. Just bring them in, and we will assess, and they will receive care. This center provides a better alternative to taking a child in crisis to the emergency room. The ER is great for medical emergencies, its not great for psychiatric emergencies, McClintock said. And so what were really trying to do is take away patients that dont need to be in the ER and have them come here and get the actual crisis services that they need. FIRE WATCH: Rick Springs Fire starts, road closures, evacuations in place According to the press release, emergency rooms across the state have reported feeling overwhelmed by the number of youths presenting with mental health concerns. Reportedly, in 2024, Huntsman Mental Health Institute treated nearly 3,000 individual youth patients in their inpatient program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youth who go to the Crisis Care Center will meet with a provider, a social worker, a certified crisis worker, peer support specialists, and nursing staff. They will get a wraparound care for evaluation, and the certified crisis worker will help with disposition planning in support with a social worker, McClintock explained. The center was made to serve the Salt Lake County community, but were not going to turn anyone away, McClintock said. We are seeing an increase in crisis across age ranges, and so we really want to make sure that we provide care for any age range, and this will allow us to hit the youth population, McClintock stated. The center will have a 12-patient capacity, but they can be assessing any number of patients at any time who can stay up to 23 hours, McClintock explained. They will not be turning anyone away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I really hope is that the community is made aware of this service and to utilize it. Were here, were gonna be open on July 28th, and just come in. If youre concerned about a family member or your child, bring them in. We will assess, we will get them care, and we will direct next best steps, McClintock concluded. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Trump calls for arrests of Obama and Clinton in Oval Office tirade, spreading dangerous lies as Epstein pressure grows. Norm Eisen, former special counsel to President Obama and founder of the Democracy Defenders Fund, and former GOP communications director Tara Setmayer, join The Weeknight to discuss whats really behind Trumps latest outburst. Plus, the panel responds to the Justice Department firing the woman chosen to replace Trumps former lawyer Alina Habba as U.S. Attorney in New J Federal immigration agents arrested former Haitian presidential candidate Pierre Reginald Boulos at his Palm Beach County home on July 17. Boulos, born in New York, renounced his U.S. citizenship to run for president of Haiti in 2021. He later applied for permanent residency and regained legal status in the United States in 2024. In a statement following his arrest, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said Boulos supported gang violence in Haiti through ties to leaders associated with the group Viv Ansanm, which the U.S. government has deemed a foreign terrorist organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Becoming a U.S. Citizen: Read The Post's coverage on why immigrants are taking the oath According to the United Nations, Viv Ansanm formed in 2023 through the merger of two major criminal alliances, G9 and G-Pep, under the leadership of former police officer Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier. The group has orchestrated coordinated attacks on government buildings, police stations and key infrastructure in Port-au-Prince, killing hundreds and displacing tens of thousands. "The United States will not allow individuals to enjoy the benefits of legal status in our country while they are facilitating the actions of violent organizations or supporting criminal terrorist organizations abroad," the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It offered no detail about the nature or extent of Boulos' alleged involvement with Viv Ansanm Haitian Creole for "Living as one" but said his presence in the country "would have potential serious adverse foreign policy consequences" for the U.S. ICE: Reginald Boulos failed to disclose political party, corruption referral In addition to the suspected gang ties, immigration officials said Boulos withheld key information from his green card application. These include his role in founding the political party Mouvement pour la Transformation et la Valorisation dHaiti, and the fact that Haitis anti-corruption office once referred him for prosecution over the alleged misuse of public loan funds. Boulos' arrest which fell on the same day as countywide protests against the Trump administrations mass deportation tactics followed a joint investigation by ICEs Homeland Security Investigations unit, the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service and the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boulos is being held in ICE custody as the Department of Homeland Security moves to deport him under a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act that permits removal based on national security and foreign policy concerns. 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: ICE arrests Haitian ex-presidential candidate Pierre Boulos in Florida TOPEKA (KSNT) It may be a few more weeks before school starts up again, but the Washburn Ichabods are already making their way back on the campus for a little fun. Washburn University hosted its third Summer block party, inviting current and incoming students to meet outside the Memorial Union. Food trucks lined the streets, college groups lined the sidewalk, and students had the chance to enter a raffle for a $1,500 scholarship. Potential Topeka truck stop heads to city council with revised recommendations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This event was free to attend and gave the students the chance to get involved on campus before the fall semester. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. This story was originally published on Payments Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Payments Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: American consumers will pay $6 million more annually for goods and services as merchants round up prices to account for the fading availability of the U.S. penny after its no longer minted next year, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond estimated in a report this month. As pennies phase out, businesses are likely to round cash transactions to the nearest 5 cents, resulting in a rounding tax," the Fed banks report said. The additional collective cost to Americans is still less than the $85.3 million the federal government lost last year on production of some three billion new pennies, according to the report. Dive Insight: The penny bearing President Abraham Lincolns profile has been in circulation since 1909, and the coin in any form has been passing from hand to hand since 1793, according to the United States Mint. While the one cent coin was initially made from copper, the latest versions are mainly zinc with a copper coating. In February, President Donald Trump, who had been in the White House for less than a month, called on the U.S. Treasury to stop making pennies, citing the cost inefficiency. A single penny costs 3.69 cents to make, according to the Richmond Fed report. A Treasury Department official confirmed in late May that the U.S. Mint had placed its final order for the blanks that become pennies. The blanks are expected to run out early next year, leading to the end of production, but the penny will remain in circulation as legal tender. The decision comes as countries around the world, including the U.S., increasingly turn to electronic payments and digital alternatives. Just last Friday, Trump signed a bill that provides a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins, a digital asset that is typically pegged to a fiat currency, such as the U.S. dollar. Cash, including coins, remains an important form of payment for some U.S. households, particularly those that are unbanked and underbanked. In a 2022 survey regarding cash, 93% of respondents said they have no plans to stop using cash, according to a 2023 Federal Reserve Financial Services report. Still, a lot of the coins are stuck between couch cushions or laying on sidewalks. And the Fed services arm estimates that $10 billion to $14 billion is sitting in those ubiquitous coin jars that consumers throw their loose pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters into when they empty their pockets. Bryan Kohberger is not walking home a free man after admitting to multiple murders! Kohberger got his verdict today, Wednesday, 23 July 2025, in front of the victims' families on the confirmed murder of not one, but four University of Idaho students. Bryan Kohberger's murderous act three years ago in 2022 claimed the lives of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. They were reportedly found gruesomely executed inside an off-campus house in Moscow, Idaho. Bryan Kohberger's Victims' Families Addressed The Court Following Verdict ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders to get himself off the list for a possible death penalty. He was then sentenced to four consecutive life sentences for each of the four first-degree murder counts he pleaded guilty to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now he gets a life behind bars without a possibility of parole, all while dressed in a bright orange prison uniform. The proceeding did not end without a word or two from family members and friends of the victims who lost their lives tragically. Mogen's stepfather delivered a heartfelt statement in court on behalf of his wife, describing the late Mogen as a gem who shared her light with everyone. A heartbroken Steve, who is Goncalves' father, described Kohberger as a "complete joke" who brought multiple families and police departments together for his arrest. Steve stressed that Kohberger has lost his relevance in this world and thanked everyone who worked on the case for ensuring justice was served. Kernodle's dad, Jeff, recalled getting an intense urge to check on his late daughter as she complained of feeling under the weather, but he decided not to drive while tipsy, so he stayed back. Jeff felt that the situation might have turned out differently if he had shown up at her place right on time to help fight off Kohberger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends of the victims also expressed their heartbreak over losing their loved ones in such a cold-blooded manner. According to TMZ, Kohberger did not address the court, but he tendered a signed statement, admitting that the murder of the four college students was premeditated and malicious. Inside The Convicted Murderer's Sinister Plan For Trial ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Kohberger's decision to take a plea deal shocked followers of the case, especially since he had previously expressed enthusiasm about going to trial and proving his innocence. As shared by The Blast, all along, the murderer had a very tricky plan for the trial, where he would have implied that the murder was committed by four other individuals who were acquaintances of the victims. The former PhD student was banking on a defense strategy claiming that the individuals had interacted with the victims at some point or another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the four individuals on Kohberger's radar remained anonymous, a court order from the presiding judge, Steven Hippler, claimed the following about three of them as regards their connection to the victims: "They interacted with one or more of the victims at social events in the hours before the homicide, lived within walking distance of the crime scene, and were familiar with the layout of the victims' home from prior social events." The fourth individual planned to be implicated by Kohberger reportedly had a mere passing connection with one of the victims, as he was present at a store where the victim shopped a month before their death. However, this fourth person did not engage in any connection with the victim; they were spotted with. The Four Individuals' DNA Samples Sealed Their Innocence ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA The judge ultimately foiled Kohberger's attempt to cite these four individuals as possible suspects if the case were to go to trial. Hippler claimed that a lack of convincing evidence influenced his judgment in proving that they had any ill intentions towards these victims. The four individuals had neither the motive to murder nor inflict physical pain on any of the murdered students. Hippler added that the four individuals' proximity to the dead victims did not play any role in their deaths either, as the murderer reportedly drove to the scene of his evil deed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if the four individuals had cars, Hippler noted that they bore zero resemblance to Kohberger's vehicle. Finally, a DNA test conducted on the submitted samples revealed that none of the materials recovered from the scene matched. Where Will The Former PhD Student Spend The Rest Of His Life? Pexels Now that Kohberger has received his sentence, The Blast noted that he will be heading to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution to begin his days on the calendar. Described as one of the toughest prisons in America, it was opened in November 1989 to house Idahos most dangerous male offenders. The prison is part of a cluster of seven detention facilities known as the South Boise Prison Complex. It is surrounded by razor wire, electronic detection wires, a double perimeter fence, and is subjected to 24-hour armed patrol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will be sharing the building with some of Americas most volatile convicts, such as serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, and Chad Daybell, who was convicted of child killing. Steve Goncalves Claimed Bryan Kohberger's Porn Fetish Influenced His Actions ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Speaking on why Kohberger could have killed his daughter, Goncalves shared that he heard from a reliable source that it was all in a bid to play out his porn fetish in real life. The murderer had reportedly been obsessed with drunk girls and gagged girls, and his daughter may have been the perfect specimen. After all, the coroner reported to Goncalves that upon inspection, there was "some damage around her mouth." This means that Kohberger may have attempted to get her to keep quiet. These weird porn fetishes were also discovered on his digital devices, further strengthening Goncalves' story. Goncalves added that the only reason why Kohberger did not sexually assault his late daughter was that he was caught. May the families of Bryan Kohberger's victims find comfort. A previously issued court order from the presiding judge in Bryan Kohberger's case has surfaced, revealing details about the accused's defense strategy. The document showed that the killer had planned to blame four other individuals for the murders, but Judge Steven Hippler ruled against allowing him to present such evidence at trial. Hippler also noted that there was no compelling evidence to prove these individuals had any motive to commit the murders, despite some of these suspects being "socially connected" to the victims. Three Of The Suspects Were 'Socially Connected' To The Victims MEGA For those following Bryan Kohberger's murder case, July began with a shocking twist as the accused unexpectedly agreed to a plea deal, despite previously appearing determined to take the case to trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, ahead of his sentencing, it has emerged that the former PhD student had planned to blame friends of his victims if the case had eventually gone to trial, per People Magazine. The identities of the individuals remain unknown, but a court order from the presiding judge, Steven Hippler, revealed that they were "socially connected" with the victims: Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. "[They] interacted with one or more of the victims at social events in the hours prior to the homicide, lived within walking distance of the crime scene, and were familiar with the layout of the victims' home from prior social events," the court order revealed about three of the individuals. Another Suspect Had A 'Passing Connection' With One Of Bryan Kohberger's Victims MEGA Elsewhere in the court order, it was mentioned that Kohberger also intended to blame a fourth individual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This person was noted to have had only a "passing connection" to one of the victims, whose identity was not revealed. The individual had seen the victim while she was shopping over a month before the murders, but ultimately didn't speak with her despite considering it. "He followed her briefly out the exit of the store while considering approaching her to talk. He turned away before ever speaking to her," the order noted. The order also revealed that Judge Hippler ruled against Kohberger's attempt to argue his innocence by using these individuals as "alternate perpetrators" during his trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This, perhaps, was the reason why the 29-year-old sought a plea deal with prosecutors, as the order was filed on June 6, and Kohberger's team reportedly reached out to prosecutors the very next day. Judge Stated There Was 'No Compelling Evidence' Other Suspects Had Motive To Kill The Victims ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Hippler also explained why he ruled against allowing the alternate perpetrator theory to be used at trial. He stated in the court order that while the evidence "could suggest an opportunity to commit the crime," it was not compelling enough to prove motive. "There is no compelling evidence that any of them had motive to kill the victims much less physically harm them or a means to do so," Hippler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, "The fact that these individuals lived within walking distance to the crime scene is not probative evidence given that the perpetrator drove a vehicle to the crime scene." All Four 'Alternate Perpetrators' Cooperated With Law Enforcement To Clear Their Names ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Judge Hippler further pointed out that although these individuals Kohberger's team tried to blame may have owned cars, none matched the vehicle the Idaho students' killer was believed to be driving. To seemingly further prove the innocence of the alternate suspects, the court order noted that all four had cooperated with law enforcement and submitted DNA samples. These DNA samples were ultimately found not to match any genetic material recovered from the crime scene. Bryan Kohberger Is Set To Receive His Sentence Ada County Sheriff's Office/MEGA After agreeing to a plea deal earlier in the month, the judge later set July 23 as the sentencing date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it is already known that the sentence includes four consecutive life terms for the murders of the Idaho students, along with additional years for burglary in connection with the killings. The sentencing hearing is expected to begin around 9 a.m. local time and may last the entire day or longer, depending on the presentation of victim impact statements. After sentencing, Kohberger will be transferred to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution (IMSI) to begin his jail term, according to the New York Post. The prison is considered one of the harshest in America and currently houses other murderers, such as serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech and child murderer Chad Daybell. It is also highly secure due to its remote location, double perimeter fence topped with razor wire, electronic detection system, and 24-hour armed patrols. Ahead of Bryan Kohberger's sentencing for the murders of four Idaho students, one of the victims' fathers has claimed that the former Ph.D. student was motivated by pornographic fetishes to commit the crimes. Steve Goncalves alleged that insiders close to the case confirmed this theory, and he later suggested that the 30-year-old murderer may have tried to reenact one of these fetishes on his daughter, Kaylee Goncalves. Bryan Kohberger is expected to be sentenced to four consecutive life sentences on July 23, after which he will be transferred to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution (IMSI) to begin serving his time. Steve Goncalves Claims He Was Told The Murders Were 'Sexually Motivated' Ada County Sheriff's Office/MEGA In the wake of Kohberger's shocking decision to accept a plea deal from federal prosecutors in his quadruple-murder trial, one of the victims' fathers, Steve Goncalves, has been among the most outspoken critics of the agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a new interview, Steve has now claimed there was a sexual element to the murders, contrary to what authorities have stated. He revealed that, because authorities dismissed this possibility during the trial, several individuals close to the case informed him about the pornography found on Kohberger's devices, out of frustration with how the prosecutors were handling the matter. "This was sexually motivated," Goncalves told NewsNation's Ashleigh Banfield about what these insiders often said, adding that really "weird porn" fetishes were found in Kohberger's phone. He went on to say that "two of the fetishes" were present in the room where the former Idaho Ph.D. student fatally stabbed Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; Madison Mogen, 21; and Ethan Chapin, 20, in their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho, on November 12, 2022. The Grieving Father Believes Kohberger Tried To Reenact A Porn Fetish On His Daughter MEGA Speaking further about the alleged fetishes, Steve revealed that they found porn about "Drunk passed out girls and gagging girls." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then hinted that his daughter, Kaylee, might have been one of the victims on whom Kohberger attempted to reenact this fetish, referencing remarks he claimed the coroner shared about the case. "There was some damage around her mouth. Somebody had pressed in and tried to keep her quiet," Steve told Banfield. Doubling down on his belief that there was a sexual element to the case, Steve criticized Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson's claim that there was no evidence to support such a theory. "I don't care about what [prosecutor] Bill Thompson said," the grieving father said. "We want to get all of these facts straight." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also suggested that the only reason an actual sexual assault didn't occur was that Kohberger was interrupted before he could carry out the act. Bryan Kohberger Will Be Sentenced On July 23 MEGA On Wednesday, Kohberger will receive the sentence agreed upon in his plea deal with federal prosecutors. The sentence includes four consecutive life terms for the murders of the Idaho students, along with additional years for burglary in connection with the killings. The sentencing hearing is expected to begin around 9 a.m. local time and could last the entire day or be extended into a second day, depending on whether all necessary proceedings are completed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the hearing, family members of the victims will have the opportunity to give impact statements. However, Kaylee's father had previously hinted that he might not participate. Kohberger will also be allowed to make a statement if he chooses to do so, although this is not a compulsory requirement in the proceedings. If such a scenario happens, he won't be compelled to disclose his motive behind the murders, as his plea agreement has no such conditions. Where Will Bryan Kohberger Serve His Sentence? ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Currently, Kohberger is being detained at the maximum security section of Ada County Jail. Once he is sentenced, Kohberger is expected to be moved to the Idaho Maximum Security Institution (IMSI) to begin serving his sentence, according to the New York Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prison is considered one of the harshest in America and currently houses Chad Daybell, the convicted child murderer and husband of "Doomsday" cult mom Lori Vallow. It is also home to serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, who was convicted of five murders but is believed to have committed over three dozen prior to his being captured. The Prison's HVAC System Was Slammed As A 'Biohazard' MEGA Due to the prison's harrowing conditions, inmates reportedly went on a hunger strike last year. They protested the state of their "cages," prolonged isolation, serious delays in medical care, and a filthy HVAC system they described as a "biohazard." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite these conditions, the prison Kohberger is set to be sent to remains highly secure, as it is remote and surrounded by a double perimeter fence topped with razor wire. It is also equipped with an electronic detection system and monitored by 24-hour armed patrols. Zamir noted that the IDF will work to enhance its robotic capabilities, which will then be integrated into combat teams, remote operations, and other areas. Israel is at a "significant crossroads" in its war, which will affect how the campaign continues, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir said during a visit to the ground forces headquarters on Wednesday. "There has never been a war like this in the history of the IDF we are operating in Tehran, Sanaa, Beirut, Syria, Jenin, and the main focus, the Gaza Strip. At times, we are operating simultaneously in several theaters," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He noted that the military will work to enhance its robotic capabilities, which will then be integrated into combat teams, remote operations, and other areas. During his visit, Zamir toured the main building and held a comprehensive briefing with ground force commander Maj.-Gen. Nadav Lotan. "We cannot operate without [the ground forces], and the ground combat capability is a decisive strategic capability against our enemies in the first circle (nearby threats). In the next multi-year plan, the ground forces components will be at the center. We will expand and enhance ground capabilities, strengthen maneuverability and lethality at the battalion and brigade combat teams," Zamir said. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir visits Ground Forces headquarters, July 23 2025 (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT) The IDF's most important resource is its soldiers Zamir emphasized that at the end of the day, "People are our most important asset," and that he has been consistently impressed by the IDF's soldiers and commanders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are investing considerable efforts in training the commanders and making sure, even during the war, that they are fully and professionally trained. My directive is to minimize any impact on training," he said. "Today, a reserve officer course ends, a course that began during the war and proves once again that the strength and action of the IDF lies in high-quality officers and strong reserve units. These are units with a strong, professional, and values-driven command structure. We will continue to develop the training and certification processes for commanders in line with the current era." Minnesota Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar has denounced the Republican Party after House Speaker Mike Johnson declined to hold a vote on the release of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein before Congress breaks for its summer recess. The pedophile protection party is shutting down Congress just to avoid voting on the release of the Epstein files, Omar wrote on X on Tuesday. Despite risking President Donald Trumps ire by calling for the release of the files himself last week on a podcast, Johnson has since changed course and said on Monday the administration needed space to vet the documents in question due to their likely sensitivity. Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar has lambasted Republicans over their refusal to hold a vote on the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files (Getty) Speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill, Johnson was asked whether the House of Representatives would get to vote on whether or not to release the files and answered: If further congressional action is necessary or appropriate, then well look at that... I dont think were at that point yet, because we agree with the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day later, he called an early start to representatives five-week recess, leaving no time for a vote on the matter until their return in September, by which point other matters may be considered more pressing. The American people are best served by putting an end to Democrats side shows, Johnson said at a press conference defending his manoeuvre. Thats what were doing by not allowing the Rules Committee to continue with that nonsense this week. Were done being lectured on transparency. Omar, who is regularly targeted by conservatives, was by no means the only member of Congress to attack Johnson over the decision. House Speaker Mike Johnson at Tuesdays press conference (AP) Her ally, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, wrote on X: Ummm so let me get this straight: Republicans have ground Congress to a halt and are considering adjourning the entire House for six weeks to avoid releasing the info they have on Epstein? What is going on here? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, an anti-Trump Republican rebel who has drafted legislation of his own calling for the release of the files, addressed the House GOP leader in a post on X that read: Speaker Johnson, why are you running cover for an underage sex trafficking ring and pretending this is a partisan issue? MAGA voted for this. There could be some movement in the interim on the Epstein case, which has bitterly divided his base and left him scrambling to change the national conversation amid awkward questions about his past friendship with the financier. Jeffrey Epstein died after taking his own life in a New York City jail in August 2019 (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) A panel of federal court judges is currently weighing up whether relevant grand jury transcripts can be released at Attorney General Pam Bondis request. Meanwhile, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has announced that he is attempting to arrange a meeting with the pedophiles jailed accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump signaled his apparent approval of that step in the Oval Office on Tuesday, saying it sounded appropriate. The House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee has also voted to subpoena Maxwell. This is progress. We will not stop fighting until the Epstein files are released. Trump and Bondi must stop blocking the American people from the truth, Oversight Committee Democrats wrote on X. CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. A Mechanicsburg, Illinois, man appeared in federal court on Tuesday to be sentenced for planning the murder of his former business partner in Florida. Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Ben Mullavey, 66, offered up to $10,000 for the murder. According to court documents, Mullavey said his partner owed him $200,000, and legal proceedings to get that money back were not going well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January 2024, Mullavey tried hiring a former employee to carry out the murder and drove to Sikeston, Missouri, to meet with him to discuss the plan. Unbeknownst to Mullavey, that employee contacted law enforcement. In later conversations, which were recorded by the FBI, Mullavey told the employee hed been planning the murder for months and had conducted surveillance on the intended victim. Child sex predator on the loose; arrest warrant filed During one of the meetings, Mullavy provided the employee man with the name and description of his Florida business partner, as well as instructions on how he wanted the murder carried out and the victims body disposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 13, 2024, the employee left Mullaveys home with a crossbow, arrows, directions to a restaurant next to the victims wine bar, a Florida license plate to help him blend in, and $2,100 in cash as a deposit and to cover other expenses. Mullavey pleaded guilty in April 2025 to one count of use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of an attempted murder-for-hire. The victim appeared in court during the sentencing phase and said he was forced to abandon his business out of fears for his safety, and in doing so, lost his financial security and apartment. A U.S. District Court judge sentenced Mullavey to 97 months in federal prison. Advertisement 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. Canadian-born Professor of Leadership Alyson Meister has been named IMDs first Dean of Degree Programs Canadian-born Professor of Leadership Alyson Meister has been named IMDs first Dean of Degree Programs. a role that will have her oversee the schools MBA, EMBA, and new Executive Masters programs. Effective Sept. 1, Meister will succeed MBA Dean Omar Toulan and EMBA Dean Vanina Farber who will both remain in their current roles until year-end. In this new role, Meister inherits a strong portfolio at the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland. The schools MBA program is currently ranked #1 in Europe by Bloomberg and was named Program of the Year by Poets&Quants in 2024. On the EMBA side, IMD recently announced the introduction of an innovative EMBA Flex. Earlier this year, the institute launched two groundbreaking stackable Executive Masters programs focused on AI & Sustainability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IMD said that Meister will work closely with President David Bach, setting the strategy for IMDs degree programs and leveraging the institutes pedagogy, its deep business expertise, and its proximity to global enterprises to help the school achieve its vision of becoming the worlds most impactful business school. IMDS MEISTER HAS WORKED WITH LEGO GROUP, LOREAL & HEINEKEN AMONG OTHERS Alyson Meister Meister brings significant experience to the new role. She directs IMDs prestigious Future Leaders program and its successful Change Management program and has worked with executives, teams, and organizations across a range of sectors, including leading engagements with clients as diverse as Booking Holdings, DP World, Heineken, Hilti, LEGO Group, LOreal, Maersk, and Sandvik. Having lived and worked on five continents, Meister joined IMD in 2019 from the Universidad de los Andes in Colombia. She received her PhD from Melbourne Business School and is a graduate of the Ivey School of Business in Canada. An accomplished researcher, Meister has published on topics including identity and diversity, as well as workplace stress, mental health, and wellbeing in top journals including Academy of Management Review, Journal of Management, Journal of Business Ethics and Harvard Business Review. Her current research is focused on the neuroscience of leadership. She was named on the Thinkers50 Radar list in 2021. As the Director of IMDs Workplace Well-being Initiative, Meister will bring her expertise to bear to develop emerging leaders holistically and prepare them for an increasingly uncertain and demanding business environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am thrilled that Alyson has agreed to lead our degree programs forward, said IMD President Bach in a statement. Her experience in working closely with top organizations and leaders across a wide range of sectors makes her the perfect candidate to build on our strong momentum. More than ever, business schools must evolve their MBA, EMBA, and Masters offering to meet the test of time. At IMD, we have always challenged what is and inspired what could be, and with Alyson at the helm we will accelerate our innovation and broaden our impact in the degree program space. SHE HAS THE DRIVE, INTERPERSONAL SKILLS & FORESIGHT TO LEAD I am honored to take up this important role in shaping the future of IMDs degree programs, added Meister in a news release announcing the appointment. Its exciting to build on the inspiring work of Omar Toulan, Vanina Farber, and the entire degree programs team. Together, well continue evolving our programs to meet the challenges of todays world. Were committed to developing leaders with the clarity, resilience, and skill to lead in a demanding and rapidly changing global context. MBA Dean Toulan believes Alyson is the right person to build upon the progress we have made with the MBA program. She has the drive, interpersonal skills, and foresight to lead the program to even further greatness. Vanina Farber, Dean for the Executive MBA, also voiced her support. So excited for whats ahead. With Alysons vision and energy leading the integration of our world class degree programs, this next chapter is in great hands, she said in a statement. DONT MISS: Inside IMDs New & Highly Innovative Executive MBA Program or IMD Launches First New Degrees In 25 Years: Stackable Executive Masters In AI & Sustainability The post IMD Names Its First Dean Of Degree Programs appeared first on Poets&Quants. Two importers have agreed to pay $6.8 million for knowingly failing to pay customs duties on plastic resin imported from China. Global Plastics LLC and Marco Polo International LLC, both subsidiaries of MGI International LLC, settled False Claims Act charges after voluntarily disclosing the violations. The companies admitted to misdeclaring the country of origin and value on plastic resin entries beginning in May 2019. This resulted in the underpayment of duties owed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department will pursue those who gain an unfair trade advantage in U.S. markets, including those who knowingly evade or underpay duties owed on foreign imports, said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Departments Civil Division. He noted that timely self-disclosures and cooperation can help importers mitigate the consequences. MGI and its subsidiaries disclosed the violations to authorities in 2024. They conducted an internal investigation and shared their damage analysis with the government. The companies also took remedial actions, including disciplining personnel and improving compliance procedures. These steps earned them credit under Department of Justice guidelines for cooperation. Companies doing business in the United States must play by the rules, including paying full custom duties owed for imports, said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack for the District of New Hampshire. He emphasized that companies demonstrating responsible corporate behavior through self-disclosure and corrective action can receive credit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan S. Thomas of CBPs Office of Trade called the fraudulent practices an economic threat. When companies use unfair trade practices and fraudulent methodologies to avoid paying customs duties, it robs the American people of revenue and undermines our economy, she said. The settlement resolves allegations only, without determining liability. The case was handled jointly by the Civil Divisions Commercial Litigation Branch and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Hampshire. Global Plastics operates from Manchester, New Hampshire, while Marco Polo is based in Melville, New York. Both function as subsidiaries under MGI International LLC. TOPEKA (KSNT) Topeka families will soon be able to enjoy brand-new playground equipment and options to have fun together at a popular local park. Ashley Gilfillan with Shawnee County Parks and Recreation (SCP+R) told 27 News that work is moving forward to make some big changes at Gage Park this year. She said nearly all of the old playground equipment in the Playland area is gone but that park-goers shouldnt be sad to see it all go. Work on the Playland project is progressing well! Gilfillan said. While the planning stages took a bit longer than initially anticipated, were confident the final result will be well worth the wait. Most of the new equipment has been ordered, and the community can look forward to an amazing new Playland experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a lifeline: New $1.6 million play area for kids coming to Topeka Shawnee County commissioners approved of plans to give Playland a major overhaul earlier this year with the installation of many new playground equipment pieces to replace the older structures on site. The plan is meant to give the park a makeover and make it a more enjoyable experience for children and families. Were incredibly excited about whats coming to Gage Parks Playland, Gilfillan said. This project is designed to deliver a premier playground experience for all of Shawnee County, one that truly reflects the grandeur of Gage Park itself. We cant wait for everyone to see it! The SCP+Rs current work doesnt include any of the nearby Animaland area that is home to multiple unique playground pieces that have been in the park for years. Gilfillan said most of the work happening in Gage Park is centered on Playland with only one piece of the previous playground equipment sticking around while the rest is replaced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Park-goers also have the new SkyTrail to look forward to. Shawnee County commissioners approved of plans to install the $1.28 million SkyTrail, consisting of raised platforms connected by rope bridges, earlier this year with the help of RCI Adventure Products. Two meteor showers to peak above Kansas on the same night, heres when (KSNT Photo) Our Public Works department is currently undertaking excavation work, Gilfillan said. As soon as this phase is complete, well begin laying the footings for the new SkyTrail. We anticipate the installation of the new Playland pieces to commence shortly thereafter. Gilfillan said the SCP+R is shooting to have all the new park improvements completed by early to mid-spring in 2026. She said people may notice some other changes happening around Gage Park in the days ahead including the addition of new signage, a new sand volleyball area and renovations to the carousel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Topeka drivers need to wait months for Kansas River bridge to reopen 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. Nvidia (NVDA) is pulling back towards the rising 21-day moving average and is still in a solid uptrend. Today were looking at a broken wing butterfly trade that creates a profit zone between $150 and $160 with income potential of around $85. Yesterday, the stock closed around $167. More News from Barchart A broken wing butterfly with puts is a butterfly spread with long put strikes that are not at the same distance from the short put strike. A broken wing butterfly has more risk on one side of the spread than on the other. You can also think of it as a butterfly with a skipped strike. The trade is usually set up as a slightly bullish trade. A broken wing butterfly with puts is usually created buying a put, selling two lower puts and buying one further out-of-the-money put. An ideal setup of the trade is to create the broken wing butterfly for a net credit, in this way, there is no risk on the upside. The main risk with the trade is a sharp move lower early in the trade. NVDA Broken Wing Butterfly Example On NVDA, an August 15 expiry broken wing butterfly could be set up through buying the $165 put, selling two of the $160 puts and buying the $150 put. Here are the details of the trade as of yesterdays close: Buy 1 August 15, $150 put @ 1.25 Sell 2 August 15, $160 put @ 3.10 Buy 1 August 15, $165 put @ 4.85 Notice that the upper strike put is 5 points away from the middle put and the lower put is 10 points away. This broken wing butterfly trade will result in a net credit of $10, which means that if NVDA stays above $165, the profit will be $10. On the downside, the maximum loss can be calculated by taking the difference between the two widths (5) multiplied by 100, minus the premium received. That gives us 5 x 100 - 10 = $490. The maximum gain can be calculated as 5 x 100 + 10 = $510 The ideal scenario for the trade is that NVDA stays above $160 for the next month. The main expiration profit zone is between $155 and $165. The trade starts with delta of 4, so has a slight bullish bias to start, but that will flip to slightly negative delta closer to expiry if NVDA is still above $165. In terms of risk management, I would set a stop loss of 20% of the capital at risk, or if NVDA broke below $155. By Farah Master HONG KONG (Reuters) -India will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens from July 24 this year, its embassy in China said on Wednesday, the first time in five years as both countries move to repair their rocky relationship. Tensions between the two countries escalated following a 2020 military clash along their disputed Himalayan border. In response, India imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, banned hundreds of popular Chinese apps and cut passenger routes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China suspended visas to Indian citizens and other foreigners around the same time due to the COVID-19 pandemic but lifted those restrictions in 2022, when it resumed issuing visas for students and business travellers. Tourist visas for Indian nationals remained restricted until March this year, when both countries agreed to resume direct air service. Relations have gradually improved, with several high-level meetings taking place last year, including talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia in October. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that Beijing had noted the positive move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "China is ready to maintain communication and consultation with India and constantly improve the level of personal exchanges between the two countries," he said. India and China share a 3,800 km (2,400-mile) border that has been disputed since the 1950s. The two countries fought a brief but brutal border war in 1962 and negotiations to settle the dispute have made slow progress. In July, India's foreign minister told his Chinese counterpart that both countries must resolve border friction, pull back troops and avoid "restrictive trade measures" to normalise their relationship. (Additional reporting by Eduardo Baptista and the Beijing newsroom; Editing by Tom Hogue and Saad Sayeed) NEW DELHI (AP) Indian police have arrested a man accused of running a bogus embassy from a rented residential building near the capital, New Delhi, and recovered cars with fake diplomatic plates. The suspect impersonated an ambassador and allegedly duped people for money by promising overseas employment, said senior police officer Sushil Ghule of Uttar Pradesh states special task force in northern India. According to police, Harshvardhan Jain, 47, claimed to have acted as an adviser or ambassador to entities such as Seborga or Westarctica. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police recovered multiple doctored photographs showing Jain with world leaders, and fake seals of Indias foreign ministry and nearly three dozen countries, Ghule said. Jain was also suspected of illegal money laundering through shell companies abroad, he said. He is also facing charges of forgery, impersonation and possessing fake documents. Police recovered four cars bearing fake diplomatic plates and nearly 4.5 million Indian rupees ($52,095) and other foreign currencies in cash from Jains rented premises, which were adorned with international flags of several nations. Jain or his lawyer couldnt be immediately reached for comment. Jul. 23An Indiana man was injured Tuesday evening after the semi he was driving rolled near Dexter. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Ibrahem Mertami, 60, of Noblesville, Indiana, was traveling westbound on Interstate 90 when the vehicle left the roadway, leading to the rollover at around 8:40 p.m. Mertami was transported to Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Marys Campus with non-life threatening injuries. The Mower County Sheriff's Office, Dexter Fire and Rescue, Mayo Ambulance and Mayo Air all responded. Until recently, the Indiana Department of Child Services offered online publications such as Parenting in Racially and Culturally Diverse Adoptive Families, and Preparing Families for Racially and Culturally Diverse Adoptions. Now, those publications and others have been removed from the DCS website in an effort to quash examples of diversity, equity and inclusion in government. Gov. Mike Brauns administration released a report earlier this month on its efforts to replace diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, with merit, excellence, and innovation, or MEI. In January, Braun signed an executive order directing state agencies to review their DEI positions, departments, activities, procedures and programs for compliance with the decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, where the U.S. Supreme Court rejected affirmative action at college and universities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indiana Black Legislative Caucus Chair State Rep. Earl Harris, D-East Chicago, said hes concerned by the states effort to remove diversity, equity and inclusion from state agencies, which follows actions taken by the Trump administration. Unfortunately, a lot of things that are happening on the national level are trickling down to states, Harris said. The report found more than 350 examples of DEI initiatives in state government programs, 70 cases of DEI training, instruction or programming for state employees, 34 grants within Indiana State agencies focused on DEI and 200 DEI initiatives in state agency policy and procedures. Indiana has replaced the divisive, politically-charged DEI ideology with merit, excellence and innovation: a level playing field where every single Hoosier has the chance to get ahead with hard work, Braun said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report addresses where agencies had diversity, equity and inclusion language, from website information to candidate hiring, and the removal of the information from the agencys policies, contracts and websites to align with Brauns executive order. For example, under the Indiana Family and Social Services Administrations division of mental health and addiction, the report highlighted 53 contracts that include DEI language. Many of the contracts state the vendor has to work within a culturally competence framework, according to the report. The contracts that havent expired are being amended or edited to remove DEI language, according to the report. The Indiana Commission for Higher Educations graduate medical education board, which focuses on funding physician residency programs across the state, issued a statement in 2020 about efforts to combat the scourge of racial and ethnic bias and its negatively associated social determinants of health, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That statement was removed from its website, according to the report. The College Success Program was funded in the 2023 budget to be used for college success programs including capital investments for minority and first-generation low-income students, according to the report. Three grants issued through the College Success Program supported first-generation students of color at Indiana State University; Black, Latino and Hispanic students at Purdue University Northwest; and first-generation college students and/or of an underrepresented background in Valparaiso University. Indiana State and VU repurposed their grant funding to other scholarships, but Purdue Northwest had continued its efforts as of April 30, 2025. The upcoming budget does not allocate funding for the College Success Program, so the grants will naturally conclude at the end of the year, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Indiana Department of Education has an online learning lab where thousands of educational videos are available for students and teachers, according to the report. When the department reviewed the videos, some with information like to support diverse learners in inclusive classrooms and the essential role of equity and inclusion in the new science starnars were taken down, according to the report. State Rep. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron, said he hadnt read the report and that legislative leadership hadnt discussed the report with House members. But, Aylesworth said the governors office has the ability to take some action without the legislature. I certainly dont have a problem with (the report). Its the governors prerogative, Aylesworth said. Sen. Rick Niemeyer, R-Lowell, said he hadnt read the report and didnt want to comment on it without doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEI has been twisted to mean something negative, Harris said, with some people pushing the idea that DEI means unqualified people who are a minority, a woman or a member of the LGBTQ community are getting jobs or contracts or opportunities based on their race, sex or gender. Thats not what DEI is about. It actually opens up the pool to make sure that all the best have the opportunity, Harris said. This whole DEI gives unqualified people the upper hand is so untrue. It actually means that even more of the best of the best are allowed opportunity. Harris also focused criticism on the elimination of the Indiana Department of Healths maternal health equity coordinator position. Indianas rates of maternal mortality, especially among Black women, are some of the highest in the nation 73% higher than their white peers according to 2021 data. The report also states that 19 contractors who worked under the Office of Minority Health were eliminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Rodney Pol, D-Chesterton, said DEI is the alphabet soup of the year that Republicans are attacking. What were going to see is really more homogeny, more privilege, as opposed to ensuring that we have representation throughout our different communities, Pol said. I think that its all political theater. Removing items that address diversity, equity and inclusion will cause some issues for our state, Harris said, and it will hurt all Hoosiers. As the state removes diversity, equity and inclusion from its policies, some Hoosiers may decide to move and those debating whether to move to Indiana for school or work may choose not to, he said. When policies like this are in place, Harris said he takes comfort in knowing there will always be another legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hopefully, as we see where this goes, we can do adjustments. The problem and the fear is what damage will already be done and how long will it take us to get where we were, Harris said. akukulka@post-trib.com The case against him consists of 15 different accusations. Soon after his arrest, a special task force was created to manage the case, and his arrest was periodically extended to keep him detained. An indictment against the accused sex offender and former CEO of the Shomrim neighborhood patrol group Chaim Rotter, 38, is expected to be issued on Sunday, Israel Police announced on Wednesday. A police prosecutor declaration was issued to the Tel Aviv District Court on Wednesday, in the preparatory step before an indictment. In a case that has shocked the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community and the country at large, Rotter was arrested on July 2, and his name was later cleared for publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police received a complaint accusing him of sexual assault, on June 12, but Rotter had flown out of Israel one day earlier. He was arrested at Ben-Gurion Airport upon his return. Per his victims testimonies, provided by social media and the press, Rotter allegedly attacked, in a consistent manner, men, women, and children over the years in the city of Bnei Brak, using his position of communal power as the head of a patrol organization to scare whistleblowers and victims from coming forward. One victim stated that he issued a complaint against Rotter about a decade ago, but that it had been closed. The case against Rotter consists of 15 different accusations. Soon after his arrest, a special task force was created to manage the case, and his arrest was periodically extended to keep him in detention. Chaim Rotter arrives to a court hearing at the Magistrate's Court in Tel Aviv, July 2, 2025 (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI/FLASH90) Consistent pattern of sexual abuse The investigation has found so far that the suspect [Rotter] manipulated his position of power in Bnei Brak to win the trust of his victims, and then sexually attacked them. This pattern was consistent throughout the years, sometimes bolstered by physical and verbal threats against the victims, said police. JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) Indonesian authorities arrested 44 people suspected of starting some of the forest and peatland fires that are spreading health-damaging haze in the region, officials said Wednesday. Forest and peat fires are an annual problem in Indonesia that strain relations with neighboring countries. In recent years, smoke from the fires has blanketed parts of Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and southern Thailand. The fires are often started illegally by plantation owners or traditional farmers to clear land for planting, said Suharyanto, who heads the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, or BNPB, in a statement on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The forest fires are not caused only by drought, but also by humans, said Suharyanto, who like many Indonesians uses only a single name. Hopefully these arrests will serve as a deterrent to the public to stop setting fires to clear land. Police on Tuesday presented the suspects, including a woman, at the news conference in Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province. They were handcuffed and wearing orange prison uniforms. Those arrested could be prosecuted under an environmental protection law that provides for a maximum 10-year prison sentence for setting fires to clear land, Suharyanto said. He urged people to be pro-active in the government campaign to stop human-caused blazes and report anyone setting fires to clear land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of areas in Riau province were still covered by thick haze, where Rokan Hilir and Rokan Hulu districts were the worst hit areas by fires that burned about 500 hectares (1,235 acres), resulting in heavy haze that reduced visibility to less than one kilometer (less than half a mile). The government has stepped up its fire responses by spreading tons of salt on clouds to induce artificial rain in Riau since Tuesday, which will continue until July 25, Suharyanto said. Tuesdays arrests were not the first. In 2019 Indonesian police arrested 230 people linked to forest fires. Forest fires on Sumatra and Borneo islands often break out during dry spells, smothering parts of nearby Singapore and Malaysia in haze. In 2023, Indonesia which often sends apologies to its neighbors over the haze, denied that its fires were blanketing Malaysia with pollution. Homelessness in Indianapolis continues to climb closer to the highest levels recorded in the past 15 years, new data shows. The newly released 2025 point-in-time count a nationwide census held each January to provide a single-night snapshot of homelessness found that 1,815 people were experiencing homelessness in Marion County at the beginning of this year. This is only the third year since 2010 in which the countywide total exceeded 1,800 people. The 2025 figure is a 7% increase from last year and the highest tally since 2021, when Indianapolis reported a 15-year high of 1,928 people experiencing homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indy's rising homeless population coincides with record-high homelessness across the United States. Despite the overall increase, significant reductions in veteran homelessness in Indianapolis and the U.S. at large hold lessons for how to help other groups, advocates say. Here are four key takeaways from the 2025 homelessness count: Most vulnerable groups drive Indy's homelessness increase Trash sits out Friday, July 18, 2025, near a homeless camp off Leonard Street in the Fountain Square area of Indianapolis. This year's increases were driven by rising homelessness among some of Indianapolis' most vulnerable groups. The number of residents facing chronic homelessness, a subgroup including people with health issues who have been homeless for more than a year, increased 24% from last year to roughly 400 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More families with children are homeless, too, making up more than a quarter of the total homeless population. In 2025, 316 children under 18 years old were experiencing homelessness, a 14% increase from last year. "Were seeing more families sleeping in vehicles," Andrew Neal, leader of the youth social services organization Outreach Indiana, told IndyStar. "We're seeing more families who are homeless and trying to get access to shelters." The data also shows that Black residents are increasingly likely to end up homeless in Marion County, marking the failure of a 2023 citywide goal to effectively eliminate racial disparities in homelessness by this year. Of the total homeless population, more than 1,000 people identified as Black. This means that while nearly 30% of Marion County residents are Black, roughly 56% of the county's homeless residents are Black. Veteran homelessness falling dramatically in Indy, across the U.S. Renovations are completed inside of the Helping Veterans and Families of Indiana's Manchester Apartments veteran transitional housing facility, which was damaged in a fire in October 2024. The fires displaced 48 veterans coming out of homelessness. While homelessness increased overall, one vulnerable group continues to make progress: veterans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of veterans experiencing homelessness fell to 125 people a 26% decrease from last year. Just 10 years ago that figure was more than three times higher, when nearly 400 veterans were experiencing homelessness in 2015. The local decline in veteran homelessness is part of a record-breaking drop across the U.S. since 2010, when the federal government began a focused effort to end homelessness among veterans. Organizations like Helping Veterans and Families in downtown Indianapolis have benefited from more funding and an influx of specialized housing vouchers that help veterans pay rent. "In its simplest form, the solution to homelessness is housing with supportive services," HVAF CEO Emmy Hildebrand said. "That's what we do here at HVAF every day." HVAF fire: How Indianapolis veteran homeless housing damaged in fires last year is being rebuilt Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The organization provides more than 100 temporary beds where veterans typically stay for six to nine months, Hildebrand said. Because more than 80% of HVAF's clients report mental health or substance abuse issues, case managers connect veterans with health care, employment opportunities and government benefits while they're staying in those beds. "We want to make sure we're addressing every possible barrier to self-sufficiency when they're present here so they're in the best position to be successful when they leave," Hildebrand said. HVAF also sends rental assistance to about 500 families a year to ensure they remain stably housed, Hildebrand said. In total, their work helped more than 1,300 veterans in 2024. What data means for citywide plan to end unsheltered, chronic homelessness Raymond Ferguson, 54, sits in his tent Monday, April 14, 2025, near the intersection of Leonard Street and Virginia Avenue in the Fountain Square neighborhood in Indianapolis. Ferguson said he had been living in this spot for around nine months. About eight in 10 people experiencing homelessness in Indianapolis were sleeping in emergency shelter beds or transitional housing units during the frigid January count. The city is taking the lead on an ambitious plan to move the remaining people who are habitually unsheltered sleeping on the street, in vehicles or in abandoned buildings into housing by next summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through the new program Streets to Home Indy, Indianapolis aims to end unsheltered and chronic homelessness by 2028. About a quarter of homeless residents fall into those two distinct but overlapping categories. The first phase of that plan is to offer temporary or permanent beds to roughly 350 people. Although about 330 were counted as unsheltered this January, the number typically increases during warmer months, advocates say. "(Homelessness) is something that we have been managing, but we really want to bring these targeted investments to the table to essentially end chronic homelessness as we know it in Indianapolis today," Aryn Schounce, a senior policy adviser on homelessness for Mayor Joe Hogsett, said in June when the program was announced. Implementing the plan will be a heavy lift. City employees will partner with street outreach teams from local nonprofits like Horizon House to visit well-known encampments and direct residents to open housing units. The city says it will clean up and shut down camps only after everyone has been housed or has left on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Streets to Home Indy is a key piece of Marion County's new Community Plan to End Homelessness, along with a low-barrier shelter that will offer 150 emergency beds for families, couples and individuals experiencing homelessness starting in 2027. Homelessness, housing costs hit record-high levels nationwide The Department of Housing and Urban Development won't release the 2025 point-in-time count results until the end of this year, but the most recent data shows that homelessness is rising even faster across the U.S. than in Indianapolis. The nationwide 2024 point-in-time count found that more than 770,000 people were experiencing homelessness in the U.S., the largest number on record and an 18% increase from 2023. The numbers reflect the rapid rise in housing costs, the expiration of pandemic-era rental assistance and an increasing number of migrants seeking asylum, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center, a Washington think tank. Although rental costs have soared particularly in denser coastal cities, prices have jumped in Indianapolis too. One in four renting households in Indianapolis spent at least half of their income on rent in 2023, according to census data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The price squeeze shows up in the fact that more than 2,000 evictions are filed each month in Marion County courts, according to the Eviction Lab at Princeton University. Email IndyStar Reporter Jordan Smith at JTsmith@gannett.com. Follow him on X: @jordantsmith09 This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Here's how many people are homeless in Indianapolis in 2025 Infamous Killer Suffering 'Serious Medical Condition' Ahead of Parole Hearing originally appeared on Parade. Erik Menendez is facing more challenges ahead of his upcoming parole hearing, and this time, its regarding his health. The 54-year-old, who along with his brother Lyle Menendez, was convicted for the 1989 murders of their parents, is now dealing with a "serious" medical issue, according to his attorney, Mark Geragos. As the Menendez brothers await their parole hearing on August 22, Geragos is advocating for Eriks immediate release from prison, citing his apparent health struggles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont want to let the cat out of the bag, Geragos told TMZ on Tuesday, July 22. Erik is having a serious medical condition right now. While he declined to provide further details, citing confidentiality, Geragos emphasized the severity of the situation. Its a serious condition, he said, adding that Erik needs to be out of prison to focus on his upcoming parole hearing. If there was ever anybody who should be furloughed, especially right now, a month before the hearing, its Erik, Geragos stated, calling on California Governor Gavin Newsom to help. SIGN UP for Parades Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox While Eriks exact medical condition is unknown, when asked if it was potentially life-threatening, Geragos expressed hope, saying, Hopefully not. As of now, both Eriks attorney and his wife, Tammi Menendez, have not provided additional information regarding his health condition. The Menendez brothers have so far served 35 years in prison, with their initial life sentences reduced in May. Now, they face eligibility for parole as a judge previously found that they were no longer an "unreasonable risk," so society, prompting the reduction. The boards decision in August will determine if the brothers are ready for release. Erik and Lyle, 57, were arrested in 1990 for the brutal murders of Mary Louise Kitty and Jose Menendez. The brothers, then aged 18 and 21, shot their parents in the familys Beverly Hills home on August 20, 1989. Initially, the deaths were believed to be the result of a robbery gone wrong, but after months of investigation, the brothers were arrested. During their trial, the Menendez brothers claimed that they killed their parents in self-defense after years of physical and sexual abuse. In 1996, they were convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Infamous Killer Suffering 'Serious Medical Condition' Ahead of Parole Hearing first appeared on Parade on Jul 22, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared. In the sweltering Florida Everglades, surrounded by marshland teeming with alligators and accessible only by a narrow, winding road, lies a facility thats become a flashpoint in the states escalating immigration crackdown. Officially designated as a detention center for immigrants both documented and undocumented this remote site has earned a notorious nickname: Alligator Alcatraz. Critics say the facilitys name fits its grim reality. They argue its less a temporary holding site and more a punitive, secretive detention camp where detainees face extreme heat, overcrowded conditions, limited legal access and virtually no transparency. Rep. Michele Rayner, D-Fla., a civil rights attorney and vocal critic of the states immigration policies, recently toured the site and spoke candidly about what she witnessed and what those conditions say about Floridas treatment of migrants. Denied entry, then an exclusive tour Rayner and four fellow Florida lawmakers first attempted an unannounced visit on July 3 just two days after former President Donald Trumps visit with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Despite state law granting them the right to inspect such facilities without notice, they were summarily denied entry, told safety concerns prevented their visit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rayner called out the contradiction: The president was here. Was it safe for him but not for us? After a persistent back-and-forth, the group was offered a sanitized tour on July 12, 2025. Rayner called it a dog and pony show, noting officials showed them clean linens, box meals and orange jumpsuits, while refusing any contact with detainees or the ability to verify allegations of flooding and infrequent meals. The lawmakers were physically blocked from certain areas, and repeated questions about detainee treatment and legal access went unanswered. Yellow bands and minor offenses One of Rayners most striking observations: though the state claims the facility is for the worst of the worst, most detainees she saw wore yellow wristbands, designating them as the lowest-risk category, typically used for minor infractions like traffic violations. She described seeing people held on civil traffic offenses and hearing reports from her colleagues in Congress of American citizens and those with protected status among detainees. The facility is supposed to house serious felons, Rayner said. Instead, many are here for minor, often non-criminal reasons. Its deeply troubling that people are being detained without clear legal justification or access to counsel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We reported previously that a Miami Herald investigation, highlighting cases such as a 15yearold boy with no conviction and a man detained after a routine traffic stop, echoing Rayners central warning: this remote facility isnt housing violent criminals, but rather vulnerable individuals wrongly blocked from basic legal protections. Rayner also noted that there was no official, private place for attorneys to meet with their clients. Only a corner of a cage, she said, monitored by a camera violating attorney-client privilege and multiple laws. What oversight exists for this facility and is it enough? Rayner explained that oversight is minimal and fragmented. Multiple agencies are involved state Department of Corrections, local law enforcement and private contractors. But no single body is fully accountable. ICE involvement is murky. The lack of transparency makes meaningful oversight almost impossible. She called for independent investigations and federal scrutiny. Without outside eyes, abuses will continue unchecked, she said. This facility operates in the shadows, and thats unacceptable in a democracy. The nickname and why she resists it While Alligator Alcatraz has gained popularity among activists and media, Rayner herself rejects the term, wary of GOP attempts to trivialize the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I refuse to buy into Republican propaganda, she said. Theyve turned this into a tourist attraction with merchandise. Selling T-shirts and souvenirs. This isnt a theme park. Its a modern concentration camp, plain and simple. She underscored the symbolism behind the Alcatraz comparison: an infamous prison known for harsh treatment and isolation, surrounded by deadly waters. The state claims alligators and pythons provide security, Rayner noted. But no animal deterrent can justify the cruelty inside. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. What can people do? Rayners message to Floridians and the broader public is clear: complacency is not an option. She urges residents to get informed, stay engaged and hold elected officials accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keep your citizenship paperwork handy, memorize emergency contacts, and reach out to your lawmakers, she said. Organize, mobilize and vote. If your representative supports these abuses, replace them. Democracy depends on pressure from the people. She remains optimistic despite the uphill battle. Im never losing hope, Rayner said. Pressure bursts pipes. We must keep shining light on these abuses until justice prevails. The post An inside look at Alligator Alcatraz appeared first on Salon.com. RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) Major layoffs for Intel have now come for their Rio Rancho location, where more than 200 people will lose their jobs in the coming months. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull said even though its a tough blow to the community, he still feels the company is a strong force in the area. Were disappointed anytime you hear of a company doing any level of layoffs. Its always difficult, especially for the families, said Hull. Intel made the announcement official on Tuesday through the WARN Act, which forces larger companies to provide a public 60-day notice when making mass layoffs. According to that notice, Intels Rio Rancho plant will let go of 227 employees between now and September. Last August, Intel said it would cut 15% of its workforce, but Rio Rancho was spared from those cuts. Since then, a new CEO took over the company in March, announcing another round of layoffs, nationwide. Were fortunate, I believe, at this point, that the 227 layoffs that have been announced here in Sandoval County are a lot less than around the country. I think a lot of that is because of the fact that theyve got the largest advanced packaging plant in the world thats located here in New Mexico, said Sandoval County Manager Wayne Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2021, Intel has poured $3.5 billion into the Rio Rancho plant to modernize equipment for more advanced manufacturing. Intel said its Rio Rancho operation employs more than 3,000 people. The new layoffs represent roughly 7% of the plants workforce. More than half of the cut positions are equipment engineers and technicians. The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions said its ready to help workers whove lost their jobs at Intel. Intel did not do an interview on the state of the Rio Rancho plant on Tuesday, but they did send the following statement to KRQE: As we announced earlier this year, we are taking steps to become a leaner, faster and more efficient company. Removing organizational complexity and empowering our engineers will enable us to better serve the needs of our customers and strengthen our execution. We are making these decisions based on careful consideration of whats needed to position our business for the future, and we will treat people with care and respect as we complete this important work. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Coastal communities across the U.S. are seeing some of the fastest sea level changes ever recorded and a new visualization brings those shifts into sharp focus, per Visual Capitalist. According to data compiled by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), places like Grand Isle, Louisiana, and Rockport, Texas, are experiencing dramatic rises in sea level that could reshape how and where we live in the future. What's happening? A new report card from VIMS tracks sea level changes at 36 U.S. coastal locations. In 2024, Grand Isle topped the list with sea levels rising by 8.2 millimeters per year part of a staggering seven-inch increase since 2010. Rockport, Texas, and areas in southeastern Virginia are close behind, with some regions also facing the added challenge of sinking land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These changes are largely driven by the warming of our planet. As dirty energy sources like gas, oil, and coal continue to pollute our atmosphere, they trap more heat, which in turn contributes to glacier melting in places like Greenland and Antarctica. That meltwater eventually raises sea levels around the globe. Meanwhile, in parts of Alaska, sea levels are actually dropping but not for a comforting reason. In Juneau and Yakutat Bay, melting glaciers are causing the land itself to rise, with sea levels falling by over 13 millimeters. It's a startling reminder of how much the Earth's surface is shifting in response to our actions. Why is sea level rise concerning? Rising sea levels don't just threaten our coastlines they endanger homes, raise insurance costs, worsen flooding, and increase the risk of storm damage. In Grand Isle, the average home insurance premium is a jaw-dropping $11,000 per year, due in part to worsening flood risk. Southeastern cities like Norfolk, Virginia, are also bracing for more frequent high-tide flooding and infrastructure damage as land sinks and water rises. Experts warn that if this trend continues, millions of Americans could be displaced or face skyrocketing costs to adapt their homes and neighborhoods to these new realities. What can be done about this? Fortunately, there are ways we can reduce our impact and prepare for what's ahead. Supporting policies that shift us away from dirty energy and toward more affordable, less-polluting alternatives like solar and wind power is a powerful first step. Organizations like the American Flood Coalition are also pushing for smarter infrastructure and coastal protections nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homeowners can take action too by improving flood resilience with raised foundations, natural landscaping, or even installing solar panels with battery storage. These steps don't just help protect homes during extreme weather events they also reduce monthly energy bills. EnergySage offers a free tool that lets you compare quotes from local installers and potentially save up to $10,000 on solar upgrades. Sea level rise might seem like a distant issue until it starts lapping at your doorstep. But by staying informed and taking small, proactive steps, we can help protect our communities and create a safer future for everyone. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. 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. Well-known anti-whaling activist Paul Watson is no longer wanted by the international police organization Interpol, after the "red notice" against him was deleted. The notice issued at Japan's request has been deleted, according to a spokesman for the France-based organization on Wednesday. An internal control commission made the decision in light of Denmark's decision not to extradite Watson to Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A red notice allows a country to request that a person be located and provisionally arrested. It is not the same as an international arrest warrant. Interpol coordinates cross-border cooperations, but each country decides for itself how to handle a case. According to Watson's lawyer, William Julie, the commission considered the manhunt for the conservationist to be disproportionate, partly because the case was so old and no serious crime had been alleged. Following an incident with a whaling ship in the Antarctic in 2010, the Japanese authorities had Watson searched and accused him of damaging the ship and preventing the whalers from doing their work. Watson denied any wrongdoing. In July last year, the Canadian-American citizen was detained in Greenland. However, Denmark eventually released him and decided not to extradite him to Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 74-year-old Watson was one of the first members of Greenpeace and later founded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, which deployed more confrontational methods to protect marine mammals. Some environmentalists consider him a hero, while others consider him too radical. His actions have antagonized various whaling nations, especially Japan. Why is there not a rating on this post? There's not enough verified evidence for us to definitively confirm or debunk this rumor. Contact us if you have credible information to share. We'll update this post as necessary. Human Rights Watch (HRW), a nonprofit watchdog organization, published a report in July 2025 that alleged a variety of violations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees at three different Florida detention centers. A man named Harpinder Chauhan told HRW he was part of a group of detainees who had their hands tied behind their backs and were forced to "bend down and eat with our mouths, like dogs." Other detainees told HRW they'd experienced feces-covered toilets, temperatures so cold they feared hypothermia, denial of urgent medical care or medications, as well as impediments to case preparation like "detention center lockdowns, transfers without notice and limited phone privileges." The Department of Homeland Security told Snopes in a statement that "Any claim that there are subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are FALSE. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment, and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers." Snopes has not been able to independently confirm or disprove the details of the HRW report or the statement from DHS. As U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continued to carry out the mass deportation efforts of President Donald Trump's administration in mid-2025, new claims about the conditions within three ICE detention facilities in Florida circulated online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, users on social media platforms like Facebook (archived), Instagram (archived), TikTok (archived) and Reddit posted about the rumor, some sharing an article from The Guardian that alleged "migrants at a Miami immigration jail were shackled with their hands tied behind their backs and made to kneel to eat food from Styrofoam plates 'like dogs.'" One user on Instagram (archived) posted The Guardian's article and said, "This is not okay. This is not justice." The alleged news circulated online as reports indicated that despite the massive uptick in ICE detainees since Trump's inauguration in January, 72% of them had no criminal convictions. The claim that detainees at three Florida ICE detention centers were being forced to eat "like dogs" originated with a report from Human Rights Watch (HRW), a nonprofit organization that "investigates and reports on abuses happening in all corners of the world," according to their website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told Snopes in an email (full statement below) that the claim was false. Because Snopes has not been able to independently confirm or disprove the report's claims or DHS' denial, we have opted not to rate the claim based on the available evidence. In the 92-page report from July 2025, HRW published a variety of interviews with former detainees, "eight men and three women" held in Florida ICE processing centers. The report stated that "detainees in three Florida facilities told Human Rights Watch that ICE detention officers and private contractor guards treated them in a degrading and dehumanizing manner." The facilities in question included Krome Processing Center, FDC Miami and Broward Transition Center (BTC). The report alleged a wide variety of rights violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Krome consistently emerged as an abusive and degrading facility, with failures spanning intake, detention, and medical care. Individuals described prolonged confinement in frigid, overcrowded processing cells without bedding, adequate clothing, or access to hygiene," the report said. "Women were also detained there for processing despite its being a male-only facility. They had no showers or privacy, and some were exposed to voyeurism by male detainees." HRW stated such actions violated "ICE's own standards, including the 2011 Performance-Based National Detention Standards (PBNDS) governing Krome and BTC, and the 2019 National Detention Standards (NDS) governing the detention of immigrants at FDC." The report further alleged the facilities violated "U.S. obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention Against Torture (CAT), and key standards articulated under the U.N. Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Mandela Rules)." The specific allegation of being forced to eat "like a dog" stemmed from HRW's interview with Harpinder Chauhan, reportedly "a 56-year-old British entrepreneur and father of two" who was detained by ICE in February 2025 after getting "into trouble with his taxes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chauhan described dozens of men held in a single cell for hours with "their feet shackled, and their hands tied behind their backs." He continued: By then it was 5 p.m. and no one had had lunch. Some had not even had breakfast. We could see the food through the bars of our holding cell in Styrofoam containers on a cart. The food was in front of us, but the guards refused to give it to us. At 7 p.m., they finally gave us lunch, but only after another guard protested on our behalf. We were chained though, so we could not reach the plates with our hands. We had to put the plates on chairs and then bend down and eat with our mouths, like dogs. Reached for comment via email, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told Snopes: Any claim that there are subprime conditions at ICE detention centers are FALSE. All detainees are provided with proper meals, medical treatment, and have opportunities to communicate with their family members and lawyers. Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE. ICE has higher detention standards than most U.S. prisons that hold actual U.S. citizens. Additionally, it is not uncommon for female detainees to be staged at Krome Detention Center. Female detainees are not placed into general population and male detainees have absolutely ZERO access to female detainees. Like all detainees these women have access to medical care. Make no mistake, this type of lies is contributing to the over 830% increase in assaults on the men and women of ICE who put their lives on the line every day to arrest violent criminal illegal aliens to protect and defend the lives of American citizens. Snopes also reached out directly to ICE, which is part of DHS, for comment and will update this article if we receive a response. It is worth noting the "830% increase in assaults" on ICE agents was self-reported by DHS as an increase from 2024, but a search for independent data on the alleged assaults only pointed back to DHS. Despite DHS' claim that the "well-being of individuals" in custody is "top priority," the HRW report further alleged that "in at least two cases, the denial of essential medications and the delays in receiving healthcare may have contributed to detainees' deaths." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was not the first rumor we've investigated about conditions at Florida immigration detention centers. For example, in early 2025 we looked into reports of severe overcrowding at Krome. Sources: Broward Transitional Center | ICE. 21 Apr. 2014, https://www.ice.gov/detain/detention-facilities/broward-transitional-center. Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. United Nations, 10 Dec. 1984, https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-against-torture-and-other-cruel-inhuman-or-degrading. Deng, Rae. "Contextualizing Claim That 72% of People ICE Detained under Trump Have No Criminal Record." Snopes, 18 Jul. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//news/2025/07/18/trump-ice-no-criminal-record/. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DHS Statement on Capture of Violent Extremist Involved in Prairieland Attack on ICE Agents | Homeland Security. https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/07/16/dhs-statement-capture-violent-extremist-involved-prairieland-attack-ice-agents. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. Executive Office for Immigration Review | Miami Krome (Detained) Immigration Court. 13 Jan. 2015, https://www.justice.gov/eoir/miami-krome-immigration-court. FDC Miami. https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/mim/. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. United Nations, 16 Dec. 1966, https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/international-covenant-civil-and-political-rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luscombe, Richard. "Migrants at Ice Jail in Miami Made to Kneel to Eat 'like Dogs', Report Alleges." The Guardian, 21 Jul. 2025. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/21/migrants-miami-ice-jail-abuses. National Detention Standards for Non-Dedicated Facilities. U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement, Revised 2019, https://www.ice.gov/doclib/detention-standards/2019/nds2019.pdf. Performance-Based National Detention Standards 2011. U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement, Revised 2016, https://www.ice.gov/doclib/detention-standards/2011/pbnds2011r2016.pdf. SUBMISSION OF AMERICANS FOR IMMIGRANT JUSTICE 4TH CYCLE OF THE UNIVERSAL PERIODIC REVIEW . Americans for Immigrant Justice, 7 Apr. 2025, https://aijustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AIJ-Krome-Detention-Center-Human-Rights-Violations-UPR-Submission.pdf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. United Nations, 17 Dec. 2015, https://www.unodc.org/documents/justice-and-prison-reform/Nelson_Mandela_Rules-E-ebook.pdf. US: Immigrants Abused in Florida Detention Sites | Human Rights Watch. 21 Jul. 2025, https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/07/21/us-immigrants-abused-in-florida-detention-sites. Wille, Belkis. "'You Feel Like Your Life Is Over.'" Human Rights Watch, Jul. 2025. Human Rights Watch, https://www.hrw.org/report/2025/07/21/you-feel-like-your-life-is-over/abusive-practices-at-three-florida-immigration. "You Feel Like Your Life Is Over" Abusive Practices at Three Florida Immigration Detention Centers Since January 2025. Human Rights Watch, Jul. 2025, https://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/media_2025/07/us_florida0725%20web_1.pdf. (NewsNation) Idaho investigators revealed Wednesday that they dont know who Bryan Kohberger was targeting when he killed four college students in 2022. We dont know who the target was, and were not going to speculate on that up here today, but we can tell you that for whatever reason Mr. Kohberger chose that residence, lead investigators on the case said when asked why they initially called the attack targeted. No connection between Bryan Kohberger and Pappa Rodger: police The investigators also said there was no connection between Kohberger and an account under the username Pappa Rodger that commented in a Facebook group dedicated to the discussion of the Idaho murders case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bryan Kohberger is less than human surviving roommate says That account was taken down around the time Kohberger was arrested, leading to speculation that the account could have been linked to him. Bryan Kohberger appears at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Benjamin Mogen, father of Madison Mogen cries at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Dylan Mortensen gets a hug after speaking at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, for his sentencing hearing, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, Pool) Kohberger, a former graduate student in criminal justice at Washington State University, faces murder charges for the deaths of Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves and Ethan Chapin, who were killed at an off-campus house near the University of Idaho on Nov. 13, 2022. He had pleaded not guilty. There was no connection, an investigator said. We looked at every bit of it. We took a deep dive into it. We researched it. No connection between Kohberger and victims on social media: police The lead investigators also said they did not find a single connection on social media between Kohberger and the victims. He was not following or engaging with any of the four, they added. Investigators and prosecutors made their first statements since the gag order on the case was lifted by Judge Steven Hippler last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get fact-based, unbiased news coverage 24/7 with the NewsNation app. Download it here. Kohberger was formally sentenced during a hearing Wednesday, where several victims family members made emotional impact statements. He brutally murdered Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in an off-campus Idaho home. Kohberger took a plea deal, agreeing to serve four life sentences for the slayings. He confessed to killing them in court, avoiding a trial where prosecutors intended to seek the death penalty. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Investigators reveal 2 possible causes of deadly fire at Fall River assisted-living home Investigators on Tuesday revealed new evidence linked to a raging fire that tore through an assisted-living facility in Fall River earlier this month, killing 10 people and leaving dozens of others hospitalized. During an afternoon news conference, State Fire Marshal Jon Davine announced the origin of the fire, as well as a pair of possible causes, amid an ongoing investigation into the tragic blaze at Gabriel House on the evening of Sunday, July 13. With the help of the Bristol County State Police Detective Unit, Davine said that state and local fire investigators were able to pinpoint exactly where the fire started. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators determined that the Gabriel House fire began in a residents room located on the left side of the second floor of the structure, Davine revealed. Davine said that investigators found no evidence of an intentionally set fire in the room, while also ruling out a slew of possible causes. They found no signs that cooking, lighting, heating, electrical outlets, or other appliances contributed to the ignition of this fire, Davine explained. They found no candles, incense, or related items. Davine did say that the damaged remains of a battery-powered scooter were recovered, but noted investigators believe the damage was the product of the fire, rather than the cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators also identified an oxygen concentrator and numerous smoking materials in the room, according to Davine. Tragically, the occupant was among those who lost their lives on July 13th, and we couldnt speak to that resident to get an account of the fire in its earliest stages, Davine said. As a result, the available evidence left was two possible causes. One was an electrical or mechanical failure involving the oxygen concentrator. The other was improper use or disposal of smoking materials. Because investigators havent narrowed down multiple factors pointing to a single cause, the fire is being classified as undetermined, with two possible ignition causes, both of which were clearly accidental, according to Davine. Davine said investigators also believe that medical oxygen played a significant role in the rapid spread of the fire and the ensuing tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oxygen is a necessary component of any fire, and it was present in the area of origin and other locations at Gabriel House, Davine explained. In an oxygen-rich environment, fire will ignite more readily, spread more rapidly, and burn at higher temperatures. Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn has identified the victims of the fire as 70-year-old Halina Lawler, 64-year-old Rui Albernaz, 61-year-old Ronald Codega, 66-year-old Brenda Cropper, 69-year-old Margaret Duddy, 78-year-old Robert King, 71-year-old Kim Mackin, 78-year-old Richard Rochon,77-year-old Joseph Wilansky and 86-year-old Eleanor Willett. In a new statement on Monday, the ownership of the Gabriel House said that the building was regularly inspected and that the fire suppression system was inspected five days prior to the fire. Also on Monday, a survivor of the fire filed a lawsuit against the owner of Gabriel House, saying the facility did not have emergency procedures in place when the fire happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inspection reports released last week by the citys Bureau of Fire Investigation identified no problems at Gabriel House going back to 2019. The reports cover things like sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, exit doors, and general housekeeping. Boards cover the windows of the Gabriel House assisted living facility, where a fire on Sunday killed several people, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Kimberlee Kruesi) Flowers sit in front of the Gabriel House assisted living facility where a fire on Sunday killed several people, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Kimberlee Kruesi) Flowers rest near an entrance to the Gabriel House assisted living facility, Monday, July 14, 2025, following a fire that started late Sunday and resulted in multiple fatalities, in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, center, and Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan, left, speak with a member of law enforcement, right, near the Gabriel House assisted living facility, Monday, July 14, 2025, following a fire that started late Sunday, in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) Investigators, front, remove boxes containing patient medications from the Gabriel House assisted living facility, behind, following a fire that resulted in multiple fatalities, in Fall River, Mass., Monday, July 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) An investigator takes measurements Monday, July 14, 2025, near an entrance to the Gabriel House assisted living facility following a fire that started late Sunday, in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) A law enforcement official removes boxes containing patient medications from the Gabriel House assisted living facility following a fire that resulted in multiple fatalities, in Fall River, Mass., Monday, July 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis Etzkorn, owner of Gabriel House, right, visits the site in the aftermath of a fire alongside Fall River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, left, Monday, July 14 in Fall River, Mass, (Michael Casey) An investigator takes measurements Monday, July 14, 2025, near an entrance to the Gabriel House assisted living facility following a fire that started late Sunday in Fall River, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) This image taken from video provided by WLNE-TV shows authorities working on the scene of a fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Mass., Sunday, July 13, 2025. (WLNE-TV via AP) This image taken from video provided by WLNE-TV shows damage from a fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Mass., Sunday, July 13, 2025. (WLNE-TV via AP) This image taken from video provided by WLNE-TV shows a firefighter working on the aftermath of a fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Mass., Sunday, July 13, 2025. (WLNE-TV via AP) Falls River Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon, right, speaks with another official after a fire the Gabriel House assisted living facility in Falls River, Mass., Monday, July 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Casey) The Gabriel House assisted living facility is shown after a fire in Falls River, Mass., Monday, July 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Casey) Fall River assisted living center fire In the wake of the fire, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has since announced a new safety initiative that began on Monday. It requires all 273 assisted living facilities in the Commonwealth to send letters to residents and families outlining safety protocols and evacuation plans. Theres also a new safety assessment survey these facilities must complete, as well as specify their disaster and emergency plans. Mayor Paul Coogan and IAFF General President Edward Kelly said in the days after the fire that staffing levels at the Fall River Fire Department will increase immediately. The staffing changes come days after the union said inadequate staffing hindered the response to a fire. The investigation into the fire will remain ongoing until further notice, officials 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 Warning: This article contains graphic descriptions. Vitalii Atamanchuk was the archetypal man of the Donbas, the industrial heartland that stretches across eastern Ukraine. He spent more than 20 years toiling in a coal mine. In 2000, he retired, but found the life of a pensioner dull. He went back to work in the mines and, later, found a job with a construction company in the city of Donetsk. Then, in 2014, the EuroMaidan Revolution swept Ukraine, toppling pro-Russian strongman Viktor Yanukovych. In Donbas, Russian-backed forces began seizing control of parts of the region and claiming independence from Ukraine. Many locals particularly those who held pro-Ukrainian views fled the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atamanchuk stayed put. But unlike many who remained, he didnt keep his pro-Ukrainian views to himself. People campaigning for Ukraines territorial integrity in Donetsk, two months before Russian troops occupied the city, on March 5, 2014. (Anton Skyba) Portraits and uniforms of Ukrainian prosecutors burn outside the prosecutors office in Donetsk, Ukraine, on May 1, 2014, as Russian-backed forces attempt to capture the city and other parts of Donetsk Oblast. (Alexander Khudoteply / AFP via Getty Images) "He was always telling people about Ukraine," Atamanchuks daughter Olena Maibozhenko told the Kyiv Independent. Dad promoted Ukrainian attitudes and was a patriot in his heart." That eventually led to his arrest and conviction by the pro-Kremlin occupation authorities. He has remained behind bars since 2018. Atamanchuk's case isnt unique. Since the start of Russias war against Ukraine in 2014, Ukrainians in the occupied territories have been subject to illegal detentions, brutal interrogations, convictions in an unrecognized legal system, and torture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both sides captured large numbers of military personnel. Prisoner exchanges between the two countries became a top priority. They have freed thousands of Ukrainians. So far, however, only 10 civilians captured by Russia before 2022 have been returned home. Now, their families are sounding the alarm. They say their relatives face inhumane conditions behind bars that threaten their lives. But securing these Ukrainian civilians freedom presents an enormous challenge, both legally and practically. Part of the problem is that, legally, civilians do not qualify for prisoner exchanges although, to complicate matters, they sometimes have been included in them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond that, no one even knows the exact number of Ukrainians currently in Russian captivity in part because Russia conceals who it has taken into custody. The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, a government entity charged with working to free Ukrainians from Russian captivity, reports that Russia has imprisoned at least 2,000 Ukrainian civilians, while the Ukrainian parliaments human rights ombudsman puts the number at around 16,000. Some have been in captivity for over a decade. Many are elderly. Others have had their health destroyed by torture, forced labor, poor detention conditions, and a lack of medical care. Ukrainian rights activists are working behind the scenes to find ways to free these people outside of the prisoner exchange process, says Mykhailo Savva, a political scientist and expert with the Center for Civil Liberties human rights organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is very difficult," he told the Kyiv Independent. The mechanisms they use are "very fragile. The Russian regime monitors such activities and destroys them." Family behind bars What separates Olena Maibozhenko from the fate of her father? Likely just one decision: to leave Donetsk. After Russian-backed militants took control of the city, she fled to the suburbs of Kyiv. But her father, mother, and brother stayed behind. Back home, things started to go downhill quickly. In 2015, Atamanchuk resigned from his job at the construction company after facing hostility for his pro-Ukrainian views. Olena offered her parents and brother to move in with her outside Kyiv, but they did not want to leave their house and dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, in early September 2018, her parents stopped answering her calls. For a week, Maibozhenko could not figure out what had happened to her family. Then, neighbors told her that all three were arrested. The Atamanchuk family had been kidnapped at night and not allowed to take any of their belongings with them. Later, a lawyer from occupied Donetsk contacted Maibozhenko and offered to handle the case. The lawyer informed her that her mother and brother were being interrogated, while her father was in a pre-trial detention center. When Maibozhenkos mother and brother were released a month later, the story began to come together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Atamanchuk family had been kidnapped at night and not allowed to take any of their belongings with them. Maibozhenkos mother Nadiia had only managed to grab her heart pills. She spent much of her time in detention with her hands tied behind her back and a bag over her head. It was only removed during interrogations. Nadiia Atamanchuk could hear her sons screams as the militants beat him in the next room. On the rare occasion when she was taken to the bathroom, she saw her son lying on the floor, handcuffed to the radiator. By the time she was released, Nadiia Atamanchuk had lost a lot of weight and needed long-term rehabilitation to restore her health. Maibozhenkos 49-year-old brother Oleh fared even worse. She told the Kyiv Independent that he was severely beaten and raped by the militants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She offered to take him out of Donetsk, but he feared that the Russian-controlled forces would stop him at one of their checkpoints and take him back into custody. Moreover, militants armed with machine guns regularly came to their house and extorted money from them. Russian-backed fighters from the Vostok Battalion tear a Ukrainian flag outside a regional administration building in Donetsk, Ukraine, on May 29, 2014. (Viktor Drachev / AFP via Getty Images) "He came out of captivity already yellow," Maibozhenko said. "He was treated in a psychiatric hospital and then in a regular hospital. But his heart stopped and he died." In summer 2020, Maibozhenko learned that, in October 2019, her father had been sentenced to 17 years in prison for allegedly spying for Ukraine in cooperation with the state security service. The sentence could have been worse. After six court hearings, Atamanchuk had initially been given 35 years behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maibozhenko also found out that both her fathers arms and his hip had been broken and he did not receive proper medical treatment for them. Even before his arrest, her father was considered legally disabled. He had been diagnosed with a disease that caused chronic inflammation in his spine. In prison, he had a series of heart attacks and fainting spells. He now can no longer walk. Maibozhenko formally requested that the Donetsk occupation authorities release her father on humanitarian grounds. Their so-called human rights ombudsman agreed on one condition: that Maibozhenko relocate to the occupied territories to look after him. "I will go there, I will be arrested, and Ill stay forever," Maibozhenko said. "You have to understand what they do and how they do it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War has informed Maibozhenko that they are working to free her father. "I understand that my father's term will never end, she said. "He is 74 years old now, and he is sentenced until 2035. This means life imprisonment for him." Five children waiting at home Maryna Schiefer last spoke to her father eight years ago. When her hometown of Donetsk was occupied in 2014, she was already living in Kyiv and preparing to move to Germany. Today, she lives in Dusseldorf and runs a volunteer organization that helps transport ambulances and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Outside of work, Maryna has another important project: She is painstakingly collecting information about her missing father. "He had a very pro-Ukrainian position all his life, against the Soviet system," Schiefer said. "When I was a child, he sent me to a Ukrainian school, the first one in Donetsk at the time." In 2014, after the occupation of Donetsk, Marynas father, Volodymyr Cherkas, moved part of the family to Kyiv. But like many elderly residents of the occupied Donbas, Marynas grandparents refused to leave. They did not want to abandon their hard-earned home in the city suburbs and hoped that the war would end quickly. A Ukrainian woman cries on a bus before being evacuated from Debaltseve, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on Feb. 3, 2015, amid heavy shelling by Russian-backed forces. (Manu Brabo / AFP via Getty Images) A soldier of Russian-backed forces stands guard at a checkpoint in Enakieve, Ukraine, on Jan. 29, 2015. (Dominique Faget / AFP via Getty Images) In June 2017, Maryna's grandfather died, so Cherkas, a 57-year-old businessman, traveled to Donetsk for the funeral. He told his mother that, on his next visit, he would take her back to Kyiv so she would not be alone. A few months later, in August, he headed back into the occupied territories. After arriving at his mothers home, Cherkas told her he needed to head into Donetsk to retrieve some belongings from his old apartment. He promised to return soon. That was the last anyone heard from him. On Sept. 5, the family finally managed to reach Cherkass cell phone. An unidentified woman answered and said that Cherkas had a heart attack and was in the district hospital. Then she quickly hung up. "Ukrainian law enforcement later explained to us that these methods are often used by (militants) to lure and capture relatives," Schiefer said. "They do this to have as much leverage as possible over a person suspected of spying for Ukraine." Because their grandmother could not easily travel unaccompanied, the family had no one who could go to the hospital. All they could do was send inquiries and report Cherkas missing. But Ukrainian law enforcement agencies said they lacked access to the occupied territories, while the occupation authorities said that they were not holding Cherkas. The family only learned of Cherkass location two years later. In December 2019, Ukraine conducted a prisoner exchange with the militants controlling the Donbas and freed 12 servicemen and 64 civilians from captivity in the occupied territories. Some of the freed Ukrainians told them that Cherkas had been locked up with them at Izolyatsia, a secret prison run by Russian-controlled forces on the territory of a defunct insulation materials factory in Donetsk. A gunman from Russian-backed forces patrols the yard of a high-security prison after shelling in Donetsk, Ukraine, on Aug. 11, 2014. (Dimitar Dilkoff / AFP via Getty Images) Ukrainians illegally imprisoned there have reported being subjected to torture, severe beatings, and psychological abuse. Andrii Kochmuradov, a Ukrainian who was imprisoned alongside Cherkas, described Izolyatsia as a facility where 10 to 20 people could be crammed in a cell and medical care was almost entirely absent. At one point, they were brought to the training grounds to do some construction work. When they arrived, they found people were using the area as a shooting range for target practice. "When I saw Volodymyr, I immediately noticed that he had a lump on the back of his neck, Kochmuradov told the Kyiv Independent. "And during the time I was with him, it grew. He also complained of high blood pressure and did not receive any medication." The prisoners also had to do forced labor. At one point, they were brought to the training grounds to do some construction work. When they arrived, they found people were using the area as a shooting range for target practice. "Cherkas remarked that the work would have to be done where they were shooting," Kochmuradov said. "For this, he was hit in the head with a rifle butt." Schiefer learned from other captives that her fathers heart problems were also worsening. As she later discovered, after Izolyatsia, Cherkas was transferred to a penal colony in Makiivka, a suburb of Donetsk. He was illegally detained there from 2019 to 2023. That prison provided medical care, although it was quite basic. Serhii Moskalenko, a Ukrainian who was also illegally imprisoned there, told the Kyiv Independent that the guards often had to call an ambulance for Cherkas. Cherkass family later learned that he was then transferred to a pre-trial detention center in Donetsk, where he and two other Ukrainians faced charges of organizing the abduction of a pro-Russian militant commander. According to Schiefer, their last hearing took place in May 2024. Cherkas was sentenced to a 6.5-year prison term. However, because Cherkas and his co-defendants had already spent that much time in custody, they were released after sentencing. As they were leaving the court, men in balaclavas grabbed them, placed them in separate cars, and drove them off. A year has passed, but Cherkass family has been unable to obtain any information about his location and condition. Today, Cherkas is 65 years old. He has five children, three of whom are minors. They know how to break a person When he was illegally detained in October 2017, Andrii Kochmuradov was 49 years old and working for an internet services provider in Donetsk. He was detained together with his wife Olena, then 53. In the ensuing two years, he would experience a phantasmagoria of torture and abuse in Izolyatsia. Describing his treatment in the secret prison, Kochmuradov recalled how he would be dragged before a police investigator for questioning. "A (prison) operative would come and beat me in the presence of the investigator," he said. "The investigator stood there, smoked, and said when it was enough or not enough." Later, Kochmuradov was transferred to the Makiivka prison and, in June 2019, put on trial. Throughout the ordeal, the lawyers representing him and his wife changed several times. Once, when a new lawyer appeared in their case, Kochmuradov asked whether she had read the case materials and what her defense strategy was. He remembers her response: "She laughed and said: 'What strategy? I haven't read it, and you don't need to, either. Your task, when the judge asks, is to stand up and say that you confess and repent. And then you will be exchanged. If you do anything else, you wont be exchanged.'" The court 'sentenced' the couple to 15 years in prison. In December 2019, they were freed in a prisoner exchange and returned to Ukrainian-controlled territory. Kochmuradov has since founded 29 December, a non-governmental organization named after the date he was freed. It fights for the rights of illegally imprisoned Ukrainians and works to secure their freedom. Not every illegally imprisoned Ukrainian is freed through a prisoner exchange. Such was the case of Serhii Moskalenko, who was held together with Cherkas in Makiivka. "They tortured me so much that I forgot my name. They didn't give me water, they beat me, and they simulated my execution. They said that my relatives had already been shot." Until 2016, Moskalenko worked at Donetsk National University. Later, he began driving people across the contact line between Ukrainian-controlled and occupied territory. In December 2017, he was illegally detained, tortured for 10 hours, and then imprisoned in Izolyatsia. The militants accused Serhii of "promoting terrorism." "They tortured me to extract a confession," Moskalenko told the Kyiv Independent. "They tortured me so much that I forgot my name. They didn't give me water, they beat me, and they simulated my execution. They said that my relatives had already been shot." "They know how to break a person," he added. Later, Moskalenko was transferred to Makiivka. For four years, he was held there without the right to correspondence. Then, in November 2021, an investigator came and informed Moskalenko that he would be freed because the "statute of limitations" on his case had expired. A view of damage at a police station in Kherson, Ukraine, on Nov. 16, 2022, where detainees were allegedly tortured by Russian forces. The photo was taken during a press tour organized by Ukrainian authorities following the withdrawal of Russian troops to the eastern bank of the Dnipro River. (Metin Aktas / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) A basement believed to have been used by Russian forces to torture and kill civilians is seen in Bucha, near Kyiv, Ukraine, on Aug. 5, 2022. (Kyodo News via Getty Images) Moskalenko was released in October 2023, six years after his illegal detention. "When I was imprisoned, there were still push-button phones. I came out and everyone had smartphones," he said. "When I got out, I walked around Donetsk. Everything was gray and abandoned. I woke up every morning and thought about how to get out of there." Twelve days later, Serhiy managed to leave the occupied territories. He now lives in Germany and works in construction, helps collect humanitarian aid, and wants to return to Ukraine. Not all civilians are so lucky as to walk free after they are released from prison. Human rights defenders have documented cases where people were sent to fight for Russia against Ukraine or taken to a special detention center for foreign nationals. Savva of the Center for Civil Liberties stresses that Russia is using illegal detentions, falsified cases, and torture to intimidate Ukrainians in the occupied territories. He believes that the goal is to overcome the populations will to resist. Freeing prisoners isnt profitable Ukrainian human rights defenders say that there are two primary groups of Ukrainians whom Russia has illegally deprived of their liberty. The largest group roughly 7,000 to 16,000 people is civilians who were deprived of their liberty without a court decision. They were locked up, sometimes in basements and secret prisons, without even a simulacrum of a trial because neither international law, nor Russian law criminalizes "resistance to a special military operations" the term Russia uses for its war on Ukraine. The second group is civilians who have been convicted by Russian courts or the occupation authorities' unrecognized courts. According to Savva, the Geneva Convention allows occupiers to hold trials for people they suspect of engaging in hostile activities. But the international treaty also requires that the trial be "fair and normal." "And theres a huge problem with the fairness of such (Russian) courts," he said. "Our analysis of the verdicts we were able to obtain convincingly showed that the vast majority of such cases are illegal or falsified." "Illegally imprisoned citizens have become an instrument for Russia to force Ukraine to actually surrender." Savva believes that the illegally imprisoned civilians increasingly resemble hostages, because Russia is using them for leverage in negotiations with Ukraine. For this reason, it is now "unprofitable" for Russia to simply exchange the Ukrainian civilians it is detaining, he says. During the Istanbul peace talks last month, Russia included the release of detained civilians in a "package deal," Savva told the Kyiv Independent. "A package offer means that if any condition is not fulfilled, there will be no agreement," he said. "In other words, illegally imprisoned citizens have become an instrument for Russia to force Ukraine to actually surrender." The exact number of people that Russia is illegally detaining, both in the occupied territories and in Russian prisons, is not known. Beyond holding civilians in secret prisons, Russia also provides no list of such prisoners. Instead, people spend months piecing together bits of information to uncover the location of their missing relatives. Russias Taganrog detention center, infamous for its torture of prisoners. (Yandex Maps) Moreover, according to the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, one of the biggest challenges is that Ukrainian civilians cannot be exchanged for Russian soldiers. This would encourage Russians to take more prisoners in the occupied territories. Ukraine is working to create new mechanisms for the release of civilians in captivity. A year ago, the government launched the state project "Khochy k svoim" (In Russian, I want to return to my people), where Ukrainian citizens convicted of collaborating with Russia and committing treason can, if they so choose, be sent to Russia in exchange for Ukrainians in Russian captivity. Several have already been transferred to Russia during the prisoner exchanges that took place on May 23-25. But Russia has not responded to these efforts in good faith. Instead, Savva says that the Russian authorities "committed fraud" by handing over not political prisoners, but regulator Ukrainian convicts. These people were serving out criminal sentences in Ukrainian prisons when Russia occupied southeastern Ukraine in 2022. After Russia retreated from these territories, it took them with. Rather than send them to a third country so they could be repatriated to Ukraine, the Russian authorities decided to include them in a prisoner exchange. "In other words, Russia would have gotten rid of them anyway," Savva said. According to Savva, Ukraine is working hard to free these civilians, despite the fact that Russia refuses to follow international humanitarian law and free these people. People put up portraits of missing or captured relatives and friends during the arrival of freed, injured, and severely wounded Ukrainian prisoners of war in Chernihiv Oblast, Ukraine, on June 10, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. (Andrew Kravchenko / AFP via Getty Images) Still, he believes that Ukrainian authorities could do more. For example, it has not filed suit in the International Court of Justice over Russias violations of its obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Torture. Such a lawsuit requires serious resources. To pull that off, Ukraine would likely need to seek out other countries who would file suit together with Kyiv or even independently, Savva says. He also believes that Ukraine could advocate for a new packet of international sanctions targeting the individuals and entities involved in the illegal detention of Ukrainian civilians: the Russian Defense Ministry's military police, the Federal Penitentiary Service, and the Federal Security Service, the successor agency to the notorious Soviet KGB. "The authors of this conveyor belt of repression apply the same strategy to the occupied territories that they do to Russians themselves: They believe that if there are no leaders, the rest of us will not have centers around which to unite for resistance," Savva said. "But this strategy does not work in Ukraine." Read also: How Ukraine lost faith in the Red Cross and UN Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Apple has lashed out at the competition regulator over a fresh crackdown aimed at breaking the US tech giants grip on smartphone apps. The $3tn (2.2tn) business has said that new measures unveiled by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will threaten the privacy and security of iPhone users by forcing Apple to open up its platforms and release more data to rival tech companies. Not only will this undermine the protection of customers, according to Apple, but it will also mean it will have to give away our technology for free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The criticism comes after the CMA confirmed plans to label Apple and Google as having strategic market status over their respective iPhone and Android smartphone systems, arguing that they have unfair power over the market for smartphone apps and services. The watchdog will now consult on measures requiring Apple to share more data with rivals. It will also allow app makers to offer alternative ways for customers to pay for services, giving them an opportunity to avoid the 30pc fees that Apple charges for purchases through its App Store. It will also consider allowing digital wallet developers greater access to Apples data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Apple has argued the measures will force it to release sensitive user data to rival technology giants such as Facebook, putting the privacy of millions of iPhone customers at risk. Home Office battle The clash with the CMA threatens to escalate tensions between Apple and British officials, as the tech giant is also battling the Home Office over access to encrypted user data. The request from the Home Office has triggered scrutiny from US officials. Donald Trump described the request as something you hear about with China. The CMAs latest crackdown threatens to attract similar complaints from the White House, with the president having already criticised the imposition of European red tape on Americas most successful companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the CMA review, both Apple and Google will be required to introduce a more transparent process for approving new apps, while also bringing in clear app store rankings for developers. Will Hayter, the CMAs director for digital markets, said Apples App Store threatened to disadvantage UK app developers and mean UK users miss out on innovations, as well as facing fewer choices and higher costs. An Apple spokesman said: Were concerned the rules the UK is now considering would undermine the privacy and security protections that our users have come to expect, hamper our ability to innovate, and force us to give away our technology for free to foreign competitors. We will continue to engage with the regulator to make sure they fully understand these risks. Disappointing and unwarranted Google, meanwhile, said the CMAs decision was disappointing and unwarranted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Executives at Apple are understood to be concerned that the UK risks following the European Union into an assault on the technology sector, which could block the release of new products and slow innovation. After the EU introduced rules requiring Apple to unlock its App Store to rivals, the company is understood to have received 150 requests for information on its App Store, including from Facebook-owner Meta. Requests have included demands to share Wi-Fi data on users and all information on message and email notifications. The moves against Apple and Google come as the regulator faces pressure from Labour to prioritise growth and cut red tape for businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January, Marcus Bokkerink, the CMAs former chairman, was ousted amid concerns from ministers that the watchdog had not been focused on boosting growth. A CMA spokesman said: Driving greater competition on mobile platforms does not mean compromising on privacy. We will continue to work with Apple, the ICO and other stakeholders on our proposals before coming to a final decision in October. 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. IAEA board and chief Rafael Grossi hold exceptional meeting about Israel "The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the (nuclear) sites," Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister told reporters. Iran has agreed to allow a technical team from the UN nuclear watchdog to visit in the coming weeks to discuss relations between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Tehran, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on Wednesday. "The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the (nuclear) sites," he told reporters during a visit to New York for meetings at the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IAEA had no specific comment on his remarks, but said IAEA chief Rafael Grossi was "actively engaging with all parties involved in the Iran nuclear issue." The IAEA has said it is essential for it to be able to resume inspections in Iran following air strikes by Israel and the US last month that aimed to destroy the country's nuclear program in a bid to stop Tehran building a nuclear weapon. Tehran denies seeking a nuclear weapon and says its nuclear program is solely meant for civilian purposes. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian speaks during a meeting in Ilam, Iran, June 12, 2025. (credit: IRAN'S PRESIDENTIAL WEBSITE/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY)/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS) "Our Atomic Energy Organization is assessing, actually, the damages to the nuclear installations, and we are waiting to receive their report. In this regard, it's a very dangerous work. We do not know what has happened there ... because of the risks of the radiation," Gharibabadi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Diplomats have in particular raised concerns about the fate of some 400 kg of highly enriched uranium stocks, which Iran has not updated the IAEA on. Gharibabadi said the IAEA has not officially asked about the fate of those stocks and that Tehran "cannot say anything now because we do not have any valid and credible report from (Iran's) Atomic Energy Organization." Negotiations require cooperation with IAEA Any negotiations over Iran's future nuclear program will require its cooperation with the IAEA, which angered Iran in June by declaring on the eve of the Israeli strikes that Tehran was violating non-proliferation treaty commitments. Gharibabadi said he would travel to Istanbul to meet with Britain, France, and Germany on Friday. They, along with China and Russia, are the remaining parties to a 2015 nuclear deal that the US quit in 2018. Under the deal, sanctions on Iran were eased in return for restrictions on its nuclear program. Separately, Tehran and Washington have this year held five rounds of nuclear talks mediated by Oman. Gharibabadi said these are focused on negotiating transparency measures by Iran with regard to its nuclear program and the lifting of US sanctions. Irans President Masoud Pezeshkian has said his country is prepared for any war Israel might wage against it, adding he was not optimistic about the ceasefire between the countries, while confirming Tehran is committed to continuing its nuclear programme for peaceful purposes. Pezeshkian made the comments in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera aired on Wednesday, one of his first since the end of the 12-day conflict with Israel last month, in which the United States intervened on Israels behalf, launching strikes on Irans nuclear facilities. The comments come as Western nations say they are seeking a solution to Irans ongoing nuclear ambitions in the wake of the conflict, amid reports that strikes on its nuclear facilities were less damaging than claimed by Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are fully prepared for any new Israeli military move, and our armed forces are ready to strike deep inside Israel again, Pezeshkian told Al Jazeera. Iran was not relying on the ceasefire that ended the 12-day war to hold, he said. We are not very optimistic about it, said Pezeshkian. That is why we have prepared ourselves for any possible scenario and any potential response. Israel has harmed us, and we have also harmed it. It has dealt us powerful blows, and we have struck it hard in its depths, but it is concealing its losses. He added that Israels strikes, which assassinated leading military figures and nuclear scientists, and damaged nuclear facilities, had sought to eliminate Irans hierarchy, but it has completely failed to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 900 people were killed in Iran, large numbers of them civilians, and at least 28 people were killed in Israel before a ceasefire took hold on June 24. Enrichment programme will continue Pezeshkian said Iran would continue its uranium enrichment programme despite international opposition, saying the development of its nuclear abilities would be carried out within the framework of international laws. [US President Donald] Trump says that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon and we accept this because we reject nuclear weapons and this is our political, religious, humanitarian and strategic position, he said. We believe in diplomacy, so any future negotiations must be according to a win-win logic, and we will not accept threats and dictates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the claim from Trump that our nuclear programme is over is just an illusion. Our nuclear capabilities are in the minds of our scientists and not in the facilities, he said. Pezeshkians comments echoed earlier remarks by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who said in an interview with US broadcaster Fox News aired Monday that Tehran would never abandon its uranium enrichment programme, but was open to a negotiated solution to its nuclear ambitions, in which it would guarantee that the programme was for peaceful purposes in response for the lifting of sanctions. Israel sought to overthrow leadership Pezeshkian also addressed an attempt by Israel to assassinate him at a meeting of the Supreme National Security Council in Tehran on June 15, which was reported to have left him with minor injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about the assassination attempt, he said it had been part of a plan by Israeli commanders to target Irans political leadership in the wake of its assassination of senior military figures, in a bid to put the country into chaos in order to overthrow it completely. But the plan had failed, he said. He also stressed that Tehrans strikes on Qatars Al Udeid base in the wake of US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities had not been an attack on Qatar and its people. We do not even have a thought or imagination that there should be hostility or rivalry between us and the state of Qatar, he said, adding that he had called Qatars Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the day of the strikes to explain his position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I say clearly and honestly that we did not attack the State of Qatar, but we attacked a base for America that bombed our country while all our intentions towards Qatar and its people are good and positive. Talks with European powers to resume Araghchi said on Monday that Irans Atomic Energy Organization is still evaluating how the attacks last month had affected Irans enriched material, saying Tehran would soon inform the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its findings. He said Iran had not stopped cooperation with the IAEA, adding that any request for the IAEA to send inspectors back to Iran would be carefully considered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IAEA inspectors left Iran earlier this month after Pezeshkian signed a law suspending cooperation with the agency. Meanwhile, talks are set to take place between Iran, France, Germany and the UK in Turkiye on Friday. The three European parties to the former Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which Tehran signed with several world powers in 2015 before the US pulled out in 2018, have said Tehrans failure to resume negotiations would lead to international sanctions being reimposed on it. By Michelle Nichols UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -Iran has agreed to allow a technical team from the U.N. nuclear watchdog to visit in the coming weeks to discuss relations between the International Atomic Energy Agency and Tehran, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on Wednesday. "The delegation will come to Iran to discuss the modality, not to go to the (nuclear) sites," he told reporters during a visit to New York for meetings at the United Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IAEA had no specific comment on his remarks, but said IAEA chief Rafael Grossi was "actively engaging with all parties involved in the Iran nuclear issue." The IAEA has said it is essential for it to be able to resume inspections in Iran following air strikes by Israel and the U.S. last month that aimed to destroy the country's nuclear programme in a bid to stop Tehran building a nuclear weapon. Tehran denies seeking a nuclear weapon and says its nuclear programme is solely meant for civilian purposes. "Our Atomic Energy Organization is assessing, actually, the damages to the nuclear installations, and we are waiting to receive their report. In this regard, it's a very dangerous work. We do not know what has happened there ... because of the risks of the radiation," Gharibabadi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Diplomats have in particular raised concerns about the fate of some 400 kg of highly enriched uranium stocks, which Iran has not updated the IAEA on. Gharibabadi said the IAEA has not officially asked about the fate of those stocks and that Tehran "cannot say anything now because we do not have any valid and credible report from (Iran's) Atomic Energy Organization." Any negotiations over Iran's future nuclear programme will require its cooperation with the IAEA, which angered Iran in June by declaring on the eve of the Israeli strikes that Tehran was violating non-proliferation treaty commitments. Gharibabadi said he would travel to Istanbul to meet with Britain, France and Germany on Friday. They, along with China and Russia, are the remaining parties to a 2015 nuclear deal that the U.S. quit in 2018. Under the deal, sanctions on Iran were eased in return for restrictions on its nuclear programme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, Tehran and Washington have this year held five rounds of nuclear talks mediated by Oman. Gharibabadi said these are focused on negotiating transparency measures by Iran with regard to its nuclear program and the lifting of U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by Michelle Nichols, additional reporting by John Irish and Francois Murphy; Editing by Bhargav Acharya and Nia Williams) Dairy-alternatives group Oatly is weighing up the future of its business in China. The Sweden-based group said today (23 July) it would explore a range of options for its operations in China, which include a factory in the east of the country. The review will consider a range of options, including a potential carve-out of the Greater China segment, with the goal of accelerating growth and maximising the value of the business, Oatly said in a statement. There is no definitive timetable for completing the strategic review. In February, Oatly announced it would discontinue the building of its second factory in China after deciding it had enough capacity at its site in Maanshan, which opened in 2021. Last year, Oatly generated revenue of $114.9m from its Greater China business unit, down from $124.7m in 2023. Group revenue was $823.7m in 2024. Oatlys Greater China arm made an EBITDA loss of $31.1m last year, compared to one of $65m in 2023. The company announced the China review alongside its first-half results, which also included a cut to its group sales forecast. Oatly is projecting its constant-currency revenue will be in a range of flat to up 1% in 2025, compared to its previous forecast of growth of 2-4%. The company said the new forecast reflected reduced expectations for its business in North America and a softer-than-expected macro-environment in Greater China. It still expects its group adjusted EBITDA continues to be $5-15m. Last year, Oatly booked a group adjusted EBITDA loss of $35.3m. Oatly CEO Jean-Christophe Flatin said the company made good progress on our 2025 priorities in the first half of the year. We continue to drive cost efficiencies in our supply chain and overhead structure, and our disciplined execution of our growth playbook has seen success in our Europe & International segment, where we are seeing top line momentum," Flatin said. "All of these steps are aimed toward our goal of consistently improved profitability. Oatly booked a 1.1% rise in first-half revenue to $405.9m. Revenues in North America fell 8.7% but rose 12.5% in Greater China. The companys Europe & International division saw its revenues grow 4.6%. The group recorded an EBITDA loss of $17.2m, down from one of $42.2m in the first half of 2023. Oatly posted a net loss attributable to shareholders of the parent of $68.3m, compared to one of $76.2m in the corresponding period a year earlier. "Oatly reviews China operations" was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand. Iran has no plans to abandon its nuclear programme, including uranium enrichment, despite the "severe" damage caused by US strikes to its facilities, the country's foreign minister said ahead of renewed talks with European powers. Iran is scheduled to meet the United Kingdom, France and Germany in Istanbul on Friday to discuss its nuclear programme, with Tehran accusing European powers of scuppering a landmark 2015 nuclear deal. The meeting will be the first since Iran's 12-day war with Israel last month, during which the United States carried out strikes against Tehran's nuclear facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, enrichment "is stopped because, yes, damages are serious and severe," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Fox News on Monday. "But obviously we cannot give up enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists," he continued, calling it a source of "national pride". US President Donald Trump responded to the comments on his social media platform Truth Social, saying Washington would carry out strikes again "if necessary". The 2015 agreement, reached between Iran and UN Security Council permanent members the UK, China, France, Russia and the United States, plus Germany, imposed curbs on Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it unravelled in 2018 when the US, during Trump's first term, unilaterally withdrew and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Although Europe pledged continued support, a mechanism intended to offset US sanctions never effectively materialised, forcing many Western firms to exit Iran, deepening its economic crisis. European powers make last-ditch appeal to save Iran nuclear deal "Iran holds the European parties responsible for negligence in implementing the agreement," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei ahead of Friday's talks in Istanbul. Iran also hosted a trilateral meeting on Tuesday with Chinese and Russian representatives to discuss the nuclear issue and potential sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chinese foreign ministry said Beijing would "continue to play a constructive role in pushing relevant sides to restart dialogue and negotiations, and reach a solution that takes in account the legitimate concerns of all parties". In recent weeks, the three European powers have threatened to reimpose international sanctions on Tehran, accusing it of breaching its nuclear commitments. Germany said the Istanbul talks would be at the expert level, with the European trio, or E3, working "flat out" to find a sustainable and verifiable diplomatic solution. "If no solution is reached by the end of August... the snapback also remains an option for the E3," said its foreign ministry spokesman, Martin Giese. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A clause in the 2015 agreement allows for UN sanctions on Iran to be reimposed through a "snapback" mechanism in the event of non-compliance. However, the agreement expires in October, leaving a tight deadline. 'No intention of speaking with America' The International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA says Iran is the only non-nuclear-armed country currently enriching uranium to 60 percent far beyond the 3.67 percent cap set by the 2015 accord. Ninety percent enrichment is required for nuclear weapons. Using the snapback clause was "meaningless, unjustifiable and immoral", Baqaei told a news conference, arguing that Iran only began distancing itself from the agreement in response to Western non-compliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Iran's reduction of its commitments was carried out in accordance with the provisions outlined in the agreement," he said. Western powers. led by the US and backed by Israel, have long accused Tehran of secretly seeking to produce nuclear weapons. Iran has repeatedly denied this, insisting its nuclear programme is solely for civilian purposes such as energy production. Tehran and Washington had held five rounds of nuclear talks starting in April, but a planned meeting on June 15 was cancelled after Israel launched strikes on Iran, triggering a 12-day conflict. "At this stage, we have no intention of speaking with America," Baqaei said on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel launched a wave of surprise strikes on Iran on 13 June, targeting key military and nuclear facilities. The US launched its own strikes against Iran's nuclear programme on 22 June, hitting the uranium enrichment facility at Fordo, in Qom province south of Tehran, as well as nuclear sites in Isfahan and Natanz. (with newswires) "US destroyer 'Fitzgerald' attempted to approach waters under Iran's monitoring in a provocative move," Iranian state TV said. Iran warned a US destroyer on Wednesday to change course after it approached waters being monitored by the Islamic Republic, leading the US ship to turn away, Iranian state media reported. The US Navy and US Central Command, which oversees US forces in the Middle East, had no immediate comment on the report. Incident follows US strikes on Iran The reported incident follows US strikes last month on Iranian nuclear facilities that Washington says were part of a program geared towards developing nuclear weapons. Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is for purely civilian purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "US destroyer 'Fitzgerald' attempted to approach waters under Iran's monitoring in a provocative move," Iranian state TV said, adding that a Navy helicopter quickly approached the destroyer and issued a stern warning to leave the area. The Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald is shown on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Pacific Ocean in this August 20, 2013 handout photo. (credit: U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David Flewellyn/Handout via REUTERS) The US destroyer threatened the Iranian helicopter, but moved out of the area upon continued warning, state TV said. Iranian state media identified the vessel in question as "DDG Fitzgerald," adding the Iranian Army contacted the vessel, asserting the helicopter was under its protection and asking the ship to change its direction to the south. The Iranian government continues to insist that enrichment is a "matter of national pride," and any nuclear capabilities would be used for scientific purposes rather than weapons. Irans state media has continued to say that the country will pursue uranium enrichment as it is "a key policy of the current government," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Fox News this week. "This is a scientific achievement, an achievement that we have achieved ourselves. Why should we import something that we can produce ourselves?" he asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His decision to press forward on this key demand of Iran's is one of the reasons tensions with Iran will continue, and why Iran has been unable to return to the negotiation table with the US. Meanwhile, reports indicate that US envoy Steve Witkoff is heading to Europe this week. The Gaza issue vs. the Iran issue Although a Gaza ceasefire is one issue that Washington would like to deal with, the Iranian issue is another. Iran and the US held six rounds of indirect talks before the Israeli strikes on June 13, and Iran has not been willing to return to the negotiating table for talks since. Additionally, it has indicated that even if it does return, it will want indirect talks, and has threatened countries in Europe against any snapback under the 2015 Iran deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The moderator questioned Araghchi, asking, "Why [is Iran] increasing enrichment to such high percentages, for example, 90% or 60%, when it should be at 3.5%?" "No, no, we will never go to 90%. We are committed to maintaining a production rate below 5% for fuel used in nuclear power plants. We also enrich up to 20% because we have a research reactor in Tehran called the Tehran Research Reactor (TRR). We enrich uranium for our own needs, Araqchi responded. "We went up to 60% once, and that was after the sabotage of our nuclear facilities. And yes, we went up to 60% at that time, but during the negotiations I told the other parties that if a nuclear deal was reached, we would immediately go back to the lower level." Araqchi also said that the uranium enrichment process has been stopped for now, because the damage [to the nuclear facilities] has been very severe. We certainly cannot give up on our enrichment, because this is the achievement of our scientists, and now it is beyond that; it has become a matter of national pride. Enrichment is very valuable to us." UNITED NATIONS (AP) A top Iranian official warned Wednesday that European threats to reimpose sanctions could lead Iran to withdraw from an international pact that limits the spread of nuclear weapons, one of the last remaining safeguards against the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi discussed with reporters his country's recourse against further financial punishment ahead of a critical meeting Friday with Britain, France and Germany. The talks between Iran and some of the remaining members of the 2015 nuclear deal, which the U.S. withdrew from in President Donald Trump's first term, are expected to take place in Istanbul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three European countries have suggested triggering a so-called snapback provision in that accord that would reimpose sanctions on Iran if there is no progress on a deal to limit its nuclear program by August. The 2015 deal had eased economic penalties on Iran in exchange for restrictions and monitoring of its nuclear program, which Iran has insisted is peaceful. Gharibabadi, who has been part of the nuclear negotiation team, said that despite domestic pressure to withdraw from the separate, older Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, especially in the aftermath of the recent Israeli and U.S. strikes on its nuclear sites, Iran has remained compliant with the 1970 treaty. But, Im quite confident that if the snapback is triggered, Iran will not show more restraint in this regard, Gharibabadi said. If Iran does exit the treaty, it will be just the second country to do so, after North Korea in 2003, whose withdrawal has never been formally accepted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warning from Iran comes as the Trump administration is once again seeking to reach a deal with Tehran on its nuclear program. The two sides had held several rounds of talks before Israel staged a surprise attack in June. Iran has indicated an openness to restart negotiations with the U.S., with Gharibabadi saying Wednesday that the sooner, the better. But he issued a stern warning to the Americans before they engage in a sixth round of talks: Do not use the guise of diplomacy as cover for another military attack on Iran, referencing the scheduled plans for U.S.-Iran talks days before Israel decided to issue its first airstrikes on Tehran. Shall we have confidence and trust in the United States again? They should gain the confidence of Iran and come with honesty to the table of negotiations in this regard, Gharibabadi said. As for talks with the Europeans, Gharibabadi and Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, have remained optimistic that the triggering of sanctions and withdrawal from the treaty can be avoided with diplomacy and negotiation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gharibabadi said Friday's meeting is very important, but that its success will depend on how the Europeans approach Iran this time around. We have always valued our meetings with the European countries. But there is an important issue: I think we have always told them that the policies of the European countries should be independent, he said. They should not coordinate their positions with the Americans. He added, If this is the case, why should we negotiate with the Europeans when we can negotiate with the Americans? Iranian officials, including Gharibabadi, said they are open to proposals on how to prevent further sanctions and prevent a more complicated situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another sign of Irans willingness, Gharibabadi also shared that a delegation of IAEA technical inspectors is expected to arrive in a few weeks, marking the first time any members of the international inspection team have been allowed back in since the Israel-Iran war. The delegation will not be allowed to visit the nuclear sites, he added, saying that this will be a meeting to discuss what access, if any, Iran will allow the IAEA after what it sees as a betrayal committed against them by the agency's leaders. The IAEA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Iranian authorities are hesitant to openly accuse Israel of involvement, fearing it could force them into a position where they would have to retaliate, according to the report. Iranian officials quietly claim that many of the recent mysterious explosions and fires that have broken out in the last two weeks were acts of sabotage by Israel, The New York Times reported on Wednesday. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian government officials believe these acts of sabotage come directly from Israel, but, according to the report, are not permitted to discuss it publicly. In public, officials have claimed the events are coincidences or attributed them to old infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NYT cited three Iranian officials, including a member of the IRGC, who said they believe that many of the fires were "acts of sabotage." However, the officials did not provide evidence to back up suspicions, and NYT noted that officials who spoke publicly blamed gas leaks, garbage fires, and old infrastructure for the explosions. Iranian authorities are hesitant to openly accuse Israel of involvement, fearing it could force them into a position where they would have to retaliate, according to the report. Mahdi Mohammadi, the senior advisor to Irans head of Parliament, said, If anyone thinks we are dealing with linear events that we can predict, they are naive, We are not even in a cease-fire now; we are in a fragile suspension, and any minute it can end, and we are back at war. Pictures of Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists and others killed in Israeli strikes are displayed in Behesht Zahra Cemetery in southern Tehran, Iran, July 11, 2025 (credit: Majid Asgaripour/WANA/via Reuters) The report also cited a European official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity and who deals with Iranian affairs, and he also believed that the attacks were sabotage and suspected Israel was behind the fires. Mossad says they will continue to operate in Iran These claims follow the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, including the Mossad's promise to continue intelligence operations within Iran, leading regime officials to believe Israel is behind the incidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mossad chief David Barnea, in a rare public address following the war with Iran, said, "We will be there, just as we have been up to now." A Persian-language X/Twitter account that styles itself as Israels Mossad, but has never been publicly acknowledged by the agency, addressed the explosions in a post. "Explosion after explosion. Someone needs to check what's going on there. Too many random incidents are happening." An Iraqi who entered the UK illegally has won an appeal after arguing he cannot be deported because he is divorced. In claims disputed by the Home Office, he said he divorced a prominent politicians daughter and brought dishonour upon their family. The Iraqi said it would breach his human rights to send him back to Iraq because he was at risk of an honour feud. The Iraqi, who was granted anonymity, has won an appeal at an upper immigration tribunal for his case to be reheard after it was initially rejected by the Home Office and lower court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Iraqi entered Britain clandestinely in 2020 after travelling through Turkey and across Europe before arriving by boat in the UK. He submitted his application for asylum the following day. The court was told that his claim for asylum is based upon a claimed risk of being a victim of an honour-based crime. He alleges that he fled Iraq due to threats from his former father-in-law, a prominent and influential politician affiliated with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. According to the [Iraqi], he was accused of bringing dishonour upon [his ex-father-in-laws] family by divorcing his daughter, the court was told. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was accepted that he was married and went through a divorce, but the Home Office did not accept that he had experienced problems from his ex-father-in-law. The Home Office issued a deportation order but the Iraqi, who had a child with his ex-wife, appealed the decision. His challenge was dismissed by a lower tribunal as the judge questioned the credibility of the marriage itself. The First-tier Tribunal said there was a disparity in social status between his ex-wife the daughter of a powerful politician and him, a minimally educated taxi driver from a marginalised tribe. A claim by the Iraqi that he had also been the victim of a violent attack linked to the honour feud and stabbed 17 times was dismissed as implausible by the judge, partly because it was unsubstantiated by any medical evidence. The judge said the asylum claim appeared a complete fabrication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Iraqi appealed to the upper tribunal where the judge Sara Anzani said the lower court was wrong to question the marriage and divorce certificates and said the Iraqi was not given a chance to respond to their doubts. Judge Anzani said: These concerns about the reliability and authenticity of the marriage and divorce certificates were not previously raised by the [Home Office], nor were they put to the [Iraqi] during the hearing. I find that the Judges failure to raise his concerns about the authenticity and reliability of the marriage and divorce certificates, concerns not previously identified by the [Home Office], deprived the [Iraqi] of a fair opportunity to address the Judges doubts. The Judges findings on the marriage and divorce certificates contribute to his overall assessment of the [Iraqis] credibility, and the ultimate finding that [his] claim was fabricated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consequently, this procedural error is material and permeates the entirety of the Judges decision. Judge Anzani concluded that the case must be heard afresh at the First-tier Tribunal again, but not by the previous judge. 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 IDF clarified that the soldiers involved were not drone operators, and it is unclear how the three gained access to the squadron without proper authorization. Three soldiers, including one officer in the Israel Air Force, were questioned by Israel Police on Tuesday on suspicion of sabotaging remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs). According to military sources, there is no indication of external involvement, and the individuals are not believed to be drone operators. Military police opened an investigation against the suspects and will bring them before a military court for a detention extension hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senior officials in the IAF were shocked by the allegations presented to the investigators, as the unit has been involved in operations across Israels seven-front war. The IAF was quick to emphasize that these were not drone operators. Still, it is unclear how they gained access to the squadron without proper authorization or what the procedures for control and security were. The IDF is investigating the incident The IDF declined to comment on the soldiers' motives, but an official military source stated that the matter is currently under investigation. Remotely piloted aircraft. (credit: IDF SPOKESMANS UNIT) "An investigation has been opened by the military police regarding two soldiers and one career officer on suspicion of sabotaging several remotely piloted aircraft, the IDF said in a statement. The IDF takes incidents of this nature very seriously, and there has been no impact on the operational readiness of the RPA unit." "We're not ignoring the suffering in Gaza but the blame lies with Hamas, not Israel," said Danon. Israel's ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, criticized the UN for its hypocrisy regarding Israel, saying, "Hamas causes the crisis, and we get the blame, in an interview with The Jerusalem Post. "We're not ignoring the suffering in Gaza but the blame lies with Hamas, not Israel," said Danon. He told the Post that the international pressure being directed at Israel in recent weeks is less a result of humanitarian concern, and more a product of what he calls "a calculated propaganda campaign orchestrated by Hamas and its allies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People see the images, they hear the outcry but they dont check the facts, Danon said. Thats why were fighting not only on the battlefield, but in the arena of perception. In the interview, Danon firmly rejected the claim that Gaza is currently facing famine, citing international benchmarks. Ambassador Danny Danon, Permanent Representative of Israel to the UN, speaks during a United Nations Security Council meeting concerning the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question at the United Nations headquarters on March 20, 2025 in New York City. (credit: MICHAEL M. SANTIAGO/GETTY IMAGES) Look at the quantities of food entering through Kerem Shalom, through humanitarian convoys, through aid centers there is a constant flow of food, he explained. But Hamas hijacks aid, disrupts distribution, and prevents civilians from accessing relief and then blames Israel. The deeper issue, according to Danon, who has been fighting to prove that the claims of famine in Gaza are fake, is Hamass absence from the diplomatic arena. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre not in the Security Council, not at the General Assembly. We are. So all the pressure goes to us even though were not the problem, were the target. When asked about UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterress recent comments accusing Israel of blocking humanitarian access, Danon responded firmly: Its hypocrisy. From day one, the UN tried to undermine the Israeli National Relief Fund that was set up to provide direct aid to Gaza. They dont want Israel to succeed they want control. Even if that means fewer Palestinians get fed. Danon condemned UNSC for not urging hostage release In March, Danon also directed criticism at the UN Security Council for failing to demand the release of hostages held by Hamas, as previously reported by the Post. How can they have the audacity to talk about a ceasefire without demanding the release of those held in Hamass terror tunnels? he asked. "How can you claim to stand for international law while ignoring the hostages as they languish in conditions that defy human comprehension? he added, referring to an address by released hostage Eli Sharabi to the council, in which he asked, Where was the UN during my 491 days in captivity? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danon described the UNs silence as a moral collapse of the highest order. Furthermore, Danon condemned the lack of action by the Red Cross, saying that for "530 days, the Red Cross has continued to act according to Hamas's playbook." Addressing the topic of the renewed IDF military strikes and ground force operations in Gaza, Danon said, "There is one absolute certainty in this situation: the war will not end until the hostages are freed." "This war does not end with hostages left underground," he said. "The choice is simple," he concluded, "Ff you want a ceasefire, then pressure Hamas to release the hostages immediately." While pork fat has long been used in cosmetics, the products in the seized shipment did not meet the necessary safety standards for food-grade items. Israel's Tax Authority and the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry prevented the smuggling of over 12 tons of beef and pork fat, worth more than NIS 1 million, according to a Tuesday statement from the Tax Authority. The suspects pretended to be importers of pork fat for the cosmetics industry. Still, they intended to distribute a shipment containing both beef and pork fat for use in food products, despite the fat being unsafe for human consumption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While pork fat has long been used in cosmetics, the products in the seized shipment did not meet the necessary safety standards for food-grade items, according to the statement. The operation was led by the Tel Aviv Customs and VAT Investigation Department, with support from Ashdod customs agents and inspectors from the Central Unit for Enforcement and Investigations at the Agriculture Ministry. The shipment included more than 12 tons of animal fat and beef, which were unsuitable for human consumption and posed a major health risk. The smuggled goods were valued at over NIS 1 million. THE ISRAEL Tax Authority is apparently interpreting mail to include email and downloads from the Internet. (credit: OLIVIER FITOUSSI/FLASH90) Smuggling through Ashdod Port An initial investigation revealed that the 30-year-old suspect, a customs clearance service provider from southern Israel, worked with others to smuggle animal products through Ashdod Port and distribute them across Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect tried to deceive officials by submitting fake documents, claiming the import was for cosmetics rather than food. However, the shipments transponder indicated the presence of different meat products. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 13 pallets of animal fat and beef that were not fit for human consumption, which contradicted the import documents and product labels. The suspect further attempted to conceal their involvement by registering the shipment under a third party's name, with no connection to the goods or the shipment. A later investigation revealed that the meat and lard were produced in a Polish meat factory not approved by the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry for exports to Israel. These products posed a significant health risk. The Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court released the suspect on restrictive conditions, and the investigation is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moshe Achrek, Director of the Central Enforcement and Investigations Unit, commented: The illegal importation of animal products into Israel without approval from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security represents a serious threat to public health. I urge consumers to only purchase animal products from authorized suppliers, where they are stored under proper refrigeration and supervision. He added, If you suspect a crime involving food products, report it to us via the ministry's hotline at *6016 or our online complaint service. We are committed to working with all enforcement agencies to ensure that the food reaching consumers is safe. Israeli shelling of a Catholic church in the Gaza Strip which left three people last week was the result of an accident, according to the military's investigation into the incident released on Wednesday. The report states that the church was accidentally hit due to "unintended deviation of ammunition". The guidelines for the use of ammunition near religious buildings, shelters and other sensitive locations have been further clarified, an Israeli military spokesman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He reiterated that Israel's armed forces try to minimize damage to civilians and civilian infrastructure during their military operations in Gaza. Nevertheless, civilians in the sealed-off coastal territory continue to be killed in the conflict. Three people died and nine were seriously injured in the shelling of the Holy Family Church in the centre of Gaza City on July 17. According to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, many people who had lost their homes in the war had sought refuge in the church. The incident prompted Pope Leo XIV to once again call for an immediate ceasefire. The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem strongly condemned the attack on civilians and a holy site. A White House spokeswoman said that US President Donald Trump had called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the incident. Israels parliament has approved a symbolic measure calling for the annexation of the occupied West Bank. Knesset lawmakers voted 71-13 in favour of the motion on Wednesday, a non-binding vote which calls for applying Israeli sovereignty to Judea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley the Israeli terms for the area. It said that annexing the West Bank will strengthen the state of Israel, its security and prevent any questioning of the fundamental right of the Jewish people to peace and security in their homeland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motion, advanced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition is declarative and has no direct legal implications, though it could place the issue of annexation on the agenda of future debates in the parliament. The idea was initially brought forward last year by Israels far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, who himself lives in an illegal Israeli settlement and holds a position within Israels Ministry of Defence, where he oversees the administration of the West Bank and its settlements. The West Bank, along with the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. Since then, Israeli settlements have expanded, despite being illegal under international law and, in the case of settlement outposts, Israeli law. Palestinian leaders want all three territories for a future state. Some 3 million Palestinians and more than 500,000 Israeli settlers currently reside in the West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Annexation of the West Bank could make it impossible to create a viable Palestinian state, which is seen internationally as the most realistic way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Last year, the Israeli parliament approved a similar symbolic motion declaring opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Hussein al-Sheikh, deputy to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, said the motion was a direct assault on the rights of the Palestinian people, which undermines the prospects for peace, stability and the two-state solution. These unilateral Israeli actions blatantly violate international law and the ongoing international consensus regarding the status of the Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, he wrote in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement that it strongly rejects any motion for annexation. The ministry stressed that the colonial measures reinforce a system of apartheid in the West Bank and reflect a blatant disregard for many United Nations resolutions and the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which was issued in July 2024. The statement, carried by the official Palestinian Wafa news agency, also warned that such actions deliberately undermine the prospects of implementing a two-state solution. The ministry added that while settlement expansion continues, de facto annexation is already occurring on a daily basis. Following Israels deadly war on Gaza, Israeli forces have intensified attacks on Palestinian towns and villages in the occupied West Bank, displacing thousands of Palestinians and killing hundreds. Settlers, often backed by Israeli soldiers, have also escalated assaults on Palestinians, their land, and property. JERUSALEM (Reuters) -An anti-government activist in her 70s has been placed under investigation on suspicion of plotting to assassinate Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, police said on Wednesday. The suspect is accused of having expressed her intent to kill Netanyahu and sought assistance from other activists to obtain weapons and gather information about the prime ministers security arrangements, police said. The National Unit for Serious and International Crime Investigations and the Shin Bet internal security agency have passed their evidence on to the State Attorney's office pending possible formal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli newspaper Haaretz, quoting sources familiar with the case, said the woman had recently fallen ill and told people she planned to "take Netanyahu with her". Several people who heard her remarks contacted police, prompting the opening of the investigation. She was arrested around six weeks ago and has been released to house arrest. Haaretz said the woman, who comes from Tel Aviv and was not identified, was suspected of wanting to target Netanyahu with an explosive device or rocket-propelled grenade. In 1995 the then Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was killed by a right-wing extremist opposed to his peace efforts with the Palestinians. In 1957, Israel's first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, narrowly escaped a grenade attack by a mentally ill man. (Reporting by Crispian BalmerEditing by Peter Graff) The mosquito-borne Chikungunya virus has recently begun to spread rapidly in southern China, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Wednesday. The organization is also warning of the disease's spread to other parts of the world. In the Chinese megacity of Foshan in Guangdong province, authorities have recorded 2,659 cases so far, Chinese state media reported. According to the report, 53 hospitals in the city with a total of more than 3,600 mosquito-proof beds have been designated for the treatment of the infectious disease. All cases reported so far have been mild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The WHO says the disease is already present in 119 countries. Theoretically, 5.6 billion people could be infected. The authorities recommend removing breeding grounds for mosquito larvae, such as flower pots, or killing the mosquitoes with chemical agents as a preventive measure. Long clothing also protects against bites. The tropical infectious disease is not usually fatal, but causes fever and severe joint and muscle pain. This is often accompanied by headaches and extreme exhaustion. The disease usually subsides after one to two weeks. However, the WHO says up to 40% of patients experience problems lasting months or years after infection. There was a Chikungunya epidemic in 2004 and 2005, which spread from small island states in the Indian Ocean to the rest of the world, affecting half a million people. The WHO says a similar pattern has been observed since the beginning of the year. Rome A classical music concert in Italy has been canceled suddenly following a public backlash over the Russian conductor's support for President Vladimir Putin. Russian maestro Valery Gergiev had been scheduled to lead an ensemble of Italian musicians and soloists from St. Petersburg's Mariinsky Theatre where he's the artistic director on July 27 at the Reggia di Caserta, an opulent 18th-century palace near Naples. Italy's national news agency ANSA said the venue had canceled the concert, offering no explanation. A representative at the Reggia di Caserta confirmed the cancellation to CBS News over the phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move came after criticism from Italian lawmakers, human rights advocates and Russian political dissidents. Demonstrators hold placards denouncing Russian conductor Valery Gergiev as Among the most vocal opponents to Italy welcoming Gergiev was Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of the late Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny. She condemned Gergiev's public support for the Kremlin and accused the conductor of using his platform to legitimize Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. In a message posted on social media, Navalnaya called news of the cancellation, "not joyful, but good." "No artist who supports the current dictatorship in Russia should be welcomed in Europe. It is precisely thanks to regime loyalists like Gergiev that Putin tries to promote his image as a 'respectable person' in the West," she said. "It's a small step, but great victories are built from such small steps." Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) greets conductor Valery Gergiev during an award ceremony at the Grand Kremlin Palace, in a June,12, 2016 file photo taken in Moscow, Russia. / Credit: Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Gergiev, once lauded in the West as the "Wild Man of Music," has become a contentious figure in recent years, particularly in Europe, where a range of institutions have sought to distance themselves from artists aligned with the Russian government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gergiev's refusal to denounce Russia's invasion of Ukraine has cost him engagements at other top-tier venues, including New York's Carnegie Hall and Germany's Munich Philharmonic, where he previously served as chief conductor. The cancellation drew sharp criticism from the Russian Foreign Ministry, which on Wednesday accused Italy of cultural censorship and claimed the move was the result of Ukrainian pressure. From left, Russian President Vladimir Putin, singer Placido Domingo and conductor Valery Gergiev attend the opening of the new Mariinsky II Theatre, May 2, 2013, in St. Petersburg, Russia. / Credit: Sasha Mordovets/Getty "We strongly condemn such discriminatory attempts at 'cancel culture,' carried out by the Italian authorities," Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said in a statement, accusing Italy of caving to pressure from Ukraine. Italian officials did not immediately comment publicly on the cancellation. Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Surviving roommates of Idaho student murders share impact statements Breaking down Trump's trade deals with Japan, Philippines and Indonesia By Angelo Amante ROME (Reuters) -Italy and Algeria agreed to work together to fight terrorism and control migration during an intergovernmental meeting in Rome on Wednesday, while companies signed off on deals in sectors including energy and telecommunications. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune at the 17th-century Villa Doria Pamphili, after a trip to Algiers by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our bilateral relations have reached a level of intensity and solidity that had never been achieved before," Meloni told a news conference after the meeting. Algeria is Rome's leading trading partner in Africa, with trade worth almost 14 billion euros ($16.4 billion) while Italian investments there amount to 8.5 billion euros, Meloni's government said. "I express my confidence in what we have achieved at this summit. The agreements signed open broad horizons for a model strategic partnership that reflects the depth of our relations," Algerian President Tebboune said. A total of 13 agreements have been signed between the governments of Italy and Algeria, including one on fighting terrorism and its financing. It was not specified which threats the countries were focused on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two nations have also agreed on a plan to coordinate the search and rescue operations for migrants who attempt the dangerous sea crossing from North Africa to Europe. Meloni's right-wing government was elected in 2022 on a mandate to curb migrant arrivals. BUSINESS TIES On the business side, Italian energy group Eni this month signed a production sharing contract with oil and gas company Sonatrach worth $1.3 billion to explore and develop hydrocarbons in Algeria. On the sidelines of the meeting, the two companies signed an additional agreement to strengthen their cooperation. "We are very satisfied with the collaboration between Eni and its counterpart Sonatrach, which will become even stronger," Meloni told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eni buys gas from Sonatrach under a long-term contract that has made the north African country one of the key fuel suppliers for Italy after Rome severed ties with Russia's Gazprom following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. A separate deal will involve Submarine cable company Sparkle, a unit of Telecom Italia (TIM), which is set to be sold to a consortium led by Italy's Treasury later this year. Sparkle will sign a preliminary agreement with Algerie Telecom for a new subsea cable connecting the two countries. "Algeria is a strategic partner, and we are working hard to make this partnership ever broader, stronger and more diversified," Foreign Minister Tajani said during a speech at a business forum with over 400 companies from the two nations. ($1 = 0.8521 euros) (Reporting by Angelo Amante; Additional reporting by Tarek Amara; Editing by Toby Chopra and Keith Weir) The author in Northern California Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta I still remember the blood. The vultures. Most of all, I remember the stench. We had been riding on a bumpy dirt road for hours, my stomach in knots before the Jeep even left Nairobi, twisting more and more as we twisted deeper into the bush. We were looking for elephants. Kills, to be more precise. As we drove past wildebeest and impala, I thought I knew how I would react how it would feel but how can anyone know what will happen when they come face-to-face with death? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We came upon a dry patch of savannah dry except for the red pooling and painted across the tall grass, everywhere. And everywhere, spent shell casings fired from AK-47s. Standing over a family of elephants, or what was once a family, I felt helpless, angry, powerless. It was 2010, the height of the ivory war, when poachers would open fire on anything with tusks. I had seen reports on CNN, read about it in The New York Times, and I knew the global market for ivory carvings and statues was causing destruction here. But knowing that intellectually, and seeing a baby elephant hacked to pieces in real life is something else. At the time, there were rumors that poached ivory was being sold to al Shabaab, the Somali extremists who pledged allegiance to al Qaeda. Word was that Shabaab smuggled and sold this white gold to overseas buyers, using the profits to fund attacks like the Westgate shopping mall assault that killed 71 in downtown Nairobi in 2013. And here we were, in Tsavo National Park, deep in Shabaabs territory at a crime scene. The killers were so sure they wouldnt be caught, they left their evidence strewn across the bush. And they were right no one would hunt them. Thats because most people, including most authorities, dont see environmental crime which includes illegal logging, illegal fishing, gold and mining and many other linked crimes in addition to this kind of illegal wildlife trade as real crime. Whats worse, they dont realize organized criminal groups often fund a laundry list of other crimes, from narcotics to human trafficking, through their environmental crimes. Jaguar fangs illegally on sale in Peru Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta At nearly $300 billion, environmental crime is the fourth-largest criminal enterprise on earth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The same groups that traffic people and drugs also deal in natural resources, and they do it because its big business, while also being lower risk than many other crimes. Thats why large and powerful organized crime groups are operating in some of the most fragile and diverse ecosystems from the Amazon to the Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia, according to the United Nations 2024 World Wildlife Crime Report. I didnt know all that on that hot Tsavo day, but it was obvious even then that this was bigger than poaching. The men with me were rangers from the Kenya Wildlife Service, trained and tough, but without the resources to investigate transnational crime and terror, we were losing a war that couldnt be fought by scientists or rangers alone. When I realized this, I told myself I would no longer be a bystander. I would hunt the hunters. The question was, where to begin? Seized orangutans in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta Without knowing where that commitment would take me, I started doing just that. After that dark day, I used my background as a security consultant to help uncover the financial link between al Shabaabs involvement in the ivory trade and terrorism (a link many refused to believe until officials admitted it was real). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one no law enforcement group or conservation group was hunting the individuals at the top of these networks. When I realized that,I founded my nonprofit, with the goal of using surveillance and undercover monitoring to investigate and dismantle environmental crime networks. We operate like an intelligence agency for the planet, using informants, assets and surveillance to build cases and share evidence with authorities who then take it the last mile and make arrests. In this way, we have investigated crimes around the world, from rhino trafficking to illegal gold mining, leading to dozens of arrests.In 2023, evidence gathered by my team helped the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of Homeland Security arrest key players in an international trafficking network. A team on the ground in Mexico, Baja California. Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta Fifteen years later, we still follow the same model. Posing as buyers, we take our time to collect inside information evidence of sales and syndicates collaborating with federal agencies to tie environmental crimes to transnational crime groups. It takes a unique set of skills to track multiple criminal enterprises and earn the trust of people most wouldnt dare speak to, let alone meet. Some of our targets are connected to the embassies and consulates of unfriendly nations, some are militants, some are gangsters. The constant is our undercover work to see and study the threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spying is like building a giant puzzle without knowing what the puzzle looks like. It takes years to build which means resisting the temptation to make an easy early arrest. You must wait and weave a web to take out whole networks. You dont close the net until you know everything about the supply chain. Patience means cutting off 20 heads, not just front-line soldiers. Thats the difference between long-term intelligence and short-term investigation. The same people illegally trafficking gold in Latin America or diamond mining in West Africa [are] financing fentanyl sales with wildlife parts in Mexico, explains David Luna, who spent 20 years at the State Department fighting whats called environmental crime convergence. Seized rhino horns in Bangkok, Thailand Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta Environmental crime still isnt taken seriously enough, warns Charles Barber, the natural resources governance director at the World Resource Institute, which in April published a report on the convergence of environmental crime with corruption, money laundering and human rights abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lionel Hachemin, the director of wildlife crime at the International Fund for Animal Welfare, says communicating this threat means re-education. It starts with the donors who are largely funding this fight, and who want to see results for their money. That often means arresting poachers, who are the most visible target for law enforcement. Like in all other crime organizations, those at the top are harder to see they exist in shadow, hiding behind legitimate businesses, financial institutions and officials. But poachers are often simply trying to feed their families; they cant afford to say no to the meager earnings the work provides, and arresting them does little to impact the overall network or create lasting change.What Ive learned fighting deforestation in the Amazon, wildlife traffickers in China and illegal fishingin Mexico is that we must target the heads of these networks. My team learned this lesson fighting drug traffickers. Every time you seize a ton of cocaine, for instance, traffickers will send another ton. Its just the cost of business. The author with Jane Goodall Photo Courtesy Of Andrea Crosta Resource crime is different because resources are finite and the species often endangered. If you make an arrest too quickly and dont destroy the networks, the impact on nature is huge. A bust looks good on TV, but it means that criminals will have to kill even more animals to fill their quotas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few years ago, we were undercover in Vietnam posing as buyers, and a major trafficker showed us dozens of rhino horns. What happens if we pay and customs seizes the horns? we asked. Ill never forget how he smiled. Dont worry, he said. Well just send it again, free of charge. The public needs to know that fentanyl was traded by Chinese gangs for environmental resources supplied by Mexican cartels, Luna tells me. Maybe they soon will. With eight cartels now designated as terror groups, that could bring attention and funding, says Vanda Felbab-Brown, a senior Brookings Institute fellow studying crime and terror. This is the shadow side of conservation that scientists arent trained for and most nongovernmental organizations prefer to ignore. But until authorities see that eco-crimes are part of a network of crimes that are perpetrated by sophisticated organized crime groups, the exploitation and violence will continue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrea Crosta is the founder of Earth League International, a nonprofit that uses intelligence methods like surveillance and undercover monitoring to investigate and dismantle environmental crime networks. Do you have a compelling personal story youd like to see published on HuffPost? Find out what were looking for here and send us a pitch at pitch@huffpost.com. JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Jackson County Commissioner Donnie Branch waited until the end of Tuesdays meeting to bring up the question of putting the countys insurance coverage up for bid. Branch and Jamey Westbrook were on the losing end of that vote at the last meeting. And, I mean, were sitting here about to be when this meetings over; were going into a budget hearing. Were trying to find money to run this county with, and people have said, Why did you do that? And I cant really tell them, District 4 Commissioner Donnie Branch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson County Commission Votes Against RFP for Insurance Members of the public, a representative of Boyd Insurance, and a representative of the current provider, Milton Insurance, all spoke. Boyd Insurance claims they can help the county save money. Milton Insurance, which has had the countys business for more than 50 years, claims that no one else can give Jackson County coverage like they are able to provide. There are no insurance companies that will quote your account, Milton Insurances Albert Milton said. The biggest argument for revisiting the issue is the idea of transparency. Westbrook and Branch believe that to be transparent with their constituents, the board needs to consider the RFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The citizens who spoke Tuesday also believe it is a matter of transparency. However, Commissioner Willie Spires pointed out that if the issue failed the last time, then the board cannot hold another vote unless one of the three commissioners on the prevailing side decides they should revisit the issue. None of the three commissioners from the prevailing side seemed inclined to change their position. So the issue never made it to the floor. Spires said he stands by his decision and Milton Insurance. Step Right Up with the NextStep Academy Ive been on this board for this is my 30th years, so Ive been very, very comfortable with them (the current provider). And Im not opposed to anybody bidding for the contract, but theres certain legal guidelines that we have to follow. And my interpretation and research is that we must make the current carrier aware of our intentions to obtain or request proposals, District 1 Commissioner Dr. Willie Spires said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It remains to be seen if commissioners branch and Westbrook will continue to push for the contract or solicit proposals for insurance coverage. Their next meeting is scheduled for August 12th. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) The Jacksonville Police Department is set to host their annual Running with the Law race for the 12th time this year. The kickoff ceremony begins at 6pm on Tuesday, August 5. The races begin just an hour later, at 7pm. Runners can choose to participate in one of three races: a 5k, 10k or a one mile fun run. Registration is $40 for the 5k, $50 for the 10k and $25 for the one mile fun run. All the proceeds will go towards the NC Special Olympics. We are excited to continue this tradition while incorporating new scenic routes through beautiful downtown Jacksonville, and hopefully a somewhat cooler evening run. This is my second year participating in the races, and it is always fun to connect with our Citizens for a great cause. We encourage individuals of all abilities to sign up and join in the fun, or attend as a supporter, states Jacksonville Police Chief, Jarad Phelps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event will start at Riverwalk Park in downtown Jacksonville. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies are expected to join. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Reuters) -OpenAI and Oracle will develop another 4.5 gigawatts of data center capacity, expanding a tie-up that has promised hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure investment to keep the U.S. ahead in the global artificial intelligence race. The ChatGPT maker did not disclose the locations or funding details for the new facilities in Tuesday's announcement. The move builds on the Stargate initiative, an up to $500 billion and 10 gigawatt project that also includes Japanese technology investor SoftBank Group and is setting up its first AI data center in Abilene, Texas. OpenAI, as well as its backer Microsoft, are among the technology companies pouring billions of dollars on data centers to power generative AI services such as ChatGPT and Copilot that require huge amounts of computing power. The growing use of AI in sensitive sectors such as defense, as well as China's push to catch up, has made the nascent technology a top priority for U.S. President Donald Trump, who unveiled Stargate at the White House in January. The new data centers will bring Stargate's total capacity under development to more than 5 gigawatts, which will run on over 2 million chips, OpenAI said in a blog post, adding that the tie-up now expects to exceed its initial commitment. Oracle did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment, while the White House declined to comment. Analysts have raised doubts about the venture's ability to secure the funding, including $100 billion for immediate deployment. In January, xAI owner Elon Musk, dismissed the group, saying "they don't actually have the money." OpenAI and SoftBank will each commit $19 billion to fund Stargate, reports said in January. The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday the two companies have been at odds with each other and Stargate is now setting a more modest goal of building a small data center at end-2025, likely in Ohio. (Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid and Mrigank Dhaniwala) The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is searching for a black four-door sedan after a woman was hit and killed on Jacksonvilles Northside. Police say it happened between 3:00 and 3:30 on Monday afternoon at the intersection of Wainwright Court and West Edgewood Avenue. When officers got to the scene, they found a black woman with life-threatening injuries. She later died at the hospital. JSO hasnt shared the name or exact age of the woman, but said Monday that she was believed to be between the ages of 25 and 35 years old [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Action News Jax talked to a person who witnessed the incident but didnt want to be identified for their safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The person said they watched the victim and the suspect have a brief exchange in the middle of the intersection before the car sped up and hit the woman. They skeed off, hit her, and carried her a good 10 feet, 12 feet. She stopped moving once he hit her, and it wasnt a mistake. They tried to kill her. According to the witness, it appears the two people could have known each other. The black four-door sedan was last seen traveling eastbound on West Edgewood Avenue towards I-95 South. To submit an anonymous tip, contact First Coast Crimestoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS, **TIPS, FCCrimestoppers.com, or in the P3 app. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] DENVER (KDVR) A witness on the stand in the James Craig trial Wednesday was accused of trying to stare down the former dentist. That witness for the prosecution was wearing handcuffs as he testified at the Arapahoe County Justice Center. Craig, 47, pleaded not guilty to several charges in the 2023 death of his wife, Angela, and is accused of poisoning her with cyanide and tetrahydrozoline. Craig is charged with first-degree murder, solicitation to commit murder and solicitation to commit perjury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Craig trial: Continuing coverage Jump to: Archived live blog with updates below. Craig and the witness at one time shared a jail cell, where Craig allegedly tried to hire someone to kill an investigator. Craigs former cellmate made it clear from the witness stand that he did not like Craig. Craig and Nathaniel Harris were in jail at the same time after Craig was charged and arrested for allegedly murdering his wife, Angela Craig, in March 2023. Defense attorney Ashley Whitham, in a forceful voice, said Harris was staring down Craig. No. Ive looked at him a couple of times, Harris responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecutions witness told the jury Craig had asked him to kill an Aurora Police Department investigator working on the case. Harris also said Craig had asked him to get a letter, offering money to people who might help him find people who could give false testimony about Angela Craig. Defense lawyers asked Harris if he was testifying so he could get a deal that would get him out of jail. Harris said he was not. Prosecutors also called another woman to the stand who said she, too, was involved in a relationship with Craig. Carrie Hageseth said she met the dentist on a dating site and that he gave her money and bought her daughter a car. The woman told the court, Craig told her he and his wife were having problems and that he said, he knew how he could get away with murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told me he was not happy and trying to figure out how to get divorced. He said financial separation was near impossible. He said it would make him completely broke and destitute, Hageseth said. The trial is scheduled to resume tomorrow morning. Archived Live Updates FOX31s Vicente Arenas shared notes from the courtroom. Updates were published by the team in the newsroom. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kansai Electric Power will begin surveys for the construction of a new nuclear power reactor at its Mihama power station in Fukui prefecture, western Japan, to replace the existing facility, the company said on Tuesday. The decision marks Japans first concrete step towards building a new nuclear reactor since the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 triggered a meltdown at Tokyo Electric Powers Fukushima plant, leading it to be shut down. Japan remains heavily dependent on fossil fuel imports, and the government wants nuclear power to contribute more to the countrys energy security. Kansai Electric is currently Japans biggest nuclear operator based on the number of reactors online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The surveys would focus on topography, geology and other studies and would include communications with local residents, the company said. Given overall cost performance, plant operation, and compliance with new regulations, we consider the SRZ-1200 advanced light water reactor the most realistic option, Hiroaki Kitaura, a chief manager of Kansais nuclear power division, told a briefing. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is working with four utilities, including Kansai Electric and Hokkaido Electric Power on the basic design of the reactor type. Kansai Electric provided no construction cost estimate, but Kitaura said funds will be raised through bonds, loans, and other means as appropriate, adding that no equity issuance was currently being planned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company had been analyzing a successor to the Mihama No.1 reactor since November 2010, but suspended the study after the 2011 disaster. In 2015, it decided to decommission the No.1 and No.2 reactors at Mihama. With a significant loss of nuclear power supply expected, it is necessary to rebuild with next-generation reactors, based on the premise of ensuring safety and gaining local understanding, to secure decarbonised power sources, Japans Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto said on Tuesday. Japan currently operates over a dozen reactors, with a combined capacity of around 12 gigawatts. Many are undergoing relicencing to meet stricter safety standards implemented after the Fukushima disaster. Before 2011, Japan operated 54 reactors. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com TOKYO (AP) Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Wednesday vowed to remain in power to oversee the implementation of a new Japan-U.S. tariff agreement, despite media speculation and growing calls for him to resign after a historic defeat of his governing party. Ishiba met with heavyweights from his Liberal Democratic Party, or LDP, and former Prime Ministers Taro Aso, Fumio Kishida and Yoshihide Suga at party headquarters. He told reporters afterward that they didn't discuss his resignation or a new party leadership contest, but only the election results, voters dissatisfaction and the urgent need to avoid party discord. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite his business-as-usual demeanor, Ishiba is under increasing pressure to bow out after the LDP and junior coalition partner Komeito lost their majority in Sunday's election in the 248-member upper house, the smaller and less powerful of Japan's two-chamber parliament, shaking his grip on power. It came after a loss in the more powerful lower house in October, and so his coalition now lacks a majority in both houses of parliament, making it even more difficult for his government to pass policies and worsening Japan's political instability. Ishiba says he intends to stay on to tackle pressing challenges, including tariff talks with the U.S., so as not to create a political vacuum despite calls from inside and outside his party for a quick resignation. Ishiba keeps saying he is staying on. What was the public's verdict in the election all about?" said Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the surging Democratic Party for the People, or DPP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the LDP, a group of younger lawmakers led by Yasutaka Nakasone started a petition drive seeking Ishiba's early resignation and renewal of party leadership. We all have a sense of crisis and think the election results were ultimatum from the voters, he said. Japanese media reported that Ishiba is expected to soon announce plans to step down in August. The conservative Yomiuri newspaper said in an extra edition on Wednesday that Ishiba had decided to announce his resignation by the end of July after receiving a detailed report from his chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, on the impact of the U.S. tariffs on the Japanese economy, paving the way for a new party leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ishiba denied the report and said that he wants to focus on the U.S. trade deal, which covers more than 4,000 goods affecting many Japanese producers and industries. He welcomed the new agreement, which places tariffs at 15% on Japanese cars and other goods imported into the U.S. from Japan, down from the initial 25%. Still, local media are already speculating about possible successors. Among them are ultraconservative former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, who lost to Ishiba in September. Another conservative ex-minister, Takayuki Kobayashi, and Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former popular Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, are also seen as potential challengers. In Sunday's election, voters frustrated with price increases exceeding the pace of wage hikes, especially younger people who have long felt ignored by the ruling government's focus on senior voters, rapidly turned to the emerging conservative DPP and right-wing populist Sanseito party. None of the opposition parties have shown interest in forming a full-fledged alliance with the governing coalition, but they have said they are open to cooperating on policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People expressed mixed reaction to Ishiba, as his days seem to be numbered. Kentaro Nakamura, 53, said that he thought it's time for Ishiba to go, because he lacked consistency and did poorly in the election. The (election) result was so bad and I thought it would not be appropriate for him to stay on," Nakamura said. "I thought it was just a matter of time. But Isamu Kawana, a Tokyo resident in his 70s, was more sympathetic and said if it wasn't Ishiba who was elected prime minister last year, the result would have been the same. I think he got the short end of the stick," Kawana said. ___ Reeno Hashimoto contributed to this report. TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan's top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, the Asahi newspaper reported on Wednesday. Akazawa is visiting Washington to hold further talks with the United States, as Tokyo hopes to clinch a deal by an August 1 deadline that will avert Trump's tariff of 25% on imports from Japan. Earlier on Tuesday, Akazawa held more than two hours of talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. They engaged in "frank talks to seek an agreement benefiting both countries", according to the Japanese government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Asahi reported that Akazawa also held a separate meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent on Tuesday told Fox Business Network that the U.S. was poised to announce "a rash of trade deals" with other countries, suggesting Japan could be among these despite an election setback for Japan's ruling party and difficult negotiations. "I wouldn't be surprised if we aren't able to iron out something with Japan pretty quickly," Bessent said. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba aims to visit the U.S. this month to meet with Trump if there is progress in the trade negotiations, Yomiuri newspaper reported on Wednesday. Ishiba, however, is facing mounting opposition within his party over his decision to remain in office despite a bruising election defeat. (Reporting by Makiko Yamazaki; Editing by Leslie Adler) MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) A Kansas toddler was found safe more than 400 miles from home in Mattoon on Tuesday. He was in the possession of a double-murder suspect. Kansas officials said the 23-month-old boy was taken on Friday in Topeka. Four days later, on Tuesday, officers were called to the same area where the toddler was taken and found two people dead. An AMBER alert was sent out for the child. Mattoon Police find, rescue missing child from Kansas; man accused of kidnapping Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres the timeline of the rescue: 11 a.m.: An AMBER alert is issued, according to Topeka Police 12:09 p.m.: Mattoon Police are notified that the abduction suspect, 42-year-old Christopher Barnshaw, may be in their city 12:16 p.m.: A Mattoon officer watches Barnshaws car pass by The officer started going after the car, and thats when people like Cholly Cushman watched Barnshaw be taken into custody. Police found a gun on him at the time of the arrest. It was a little jarring to walk by one minute and walk by again and there be like a full street of cops, Cushman said. Were in the middle of two towns here so we dont get a lot of traffic on our road unless theyre coming to see us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cushman, an employee at the Crestline Veterinary Clinic near Route 16 and Beechtree Road., said it was like nothing she had ever seen. READ MORE: Missing child from Kansas found in Mattoon after AMBER alert issued; suspect in custody There was a lot of police and they had the long guns like the ARs, Cushman said. She commended Mattoon Police for how quickly they were able to find and rescue the boy. I think the AMBER alert is a really great system to help bring children home and Im glad that even all the way up here officers were looking out, Cushman said. Barnshaw has been charged with aggravated kidnapping and unlawful use of a weapon. He remains a suspect in the double-murder that left a man and woman dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mattoon police said the boy is believed to be the child of one of the victims. They said arrangements are being made to reunite the toddler with a family member. From what we could see, the boy was playing ball so hopefully he is in good spirits and in good health, Cushman said. Mattoon Police said Barnshaw was taken to the Coles County jail, although its unclear if he remains there. The last WCIA heard from authorities, they were assisting Topeka Police, who got into town around 3:30 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 WCIA.com. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) made a stunning accusation against President Donald Trumps handling of convicted sex abuser Jeffrey Epsteins case files, claiming he is already destroying the evidence. We may still be talking about it come September, when we come back into session, but to go from its on my desk to it doesnt exist, they may be engaging in destroying evidence. We know that hes not above that, Crockett said in a clip teasing a full interview with internet personality Russell Ellis, known online as the Jolly Good Ginger. Crocketts claim follows a decision by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to shut the House down on Tuesday for a five-week recess until September to block a bipartisan effort to force a vote on releasing files related to Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have come under fire in recent days for their handling of Epsteins sexual abuse case files after a Department of Justice and FBI memo stating that the disgraced financiers 2019 death behind bars was definitively a suicide, and that he was not in possession of a client list. In February, Bondi had claimed that such a list was sitting on her desk. The memo enraged Trumps MAGA fanbase, many of whom have turned on the president. News outlets subsequently began to dig deeper on his past relationship with Epstein, fueling greater speculation of a cover-up. Speaking to Ellis in the short clip, Crockett recalled the FBI raiding Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in 2022 to uncover classified documents. The presidents indictment over the classified documents was dismissed last year, but Crockett accused the president of destroying evidence in that case as well. Everybody remembers all of the secret documents that he decided to hoard down in his bathroom, that funky little stage in Mar-a-Lago, right? What did he do? He decided he wanted to engage in destroying evidence, Crockett said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration attempted to show transparency by calling on federal courts to release all pertinent grand jury transcripts in Epsteins criminal cases, but the request was denied. The administration is also reaching out to Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving 20 years in prison. Buy us a month, well destroy everything, and then we can go ahead and release it. Crockett said, mocking the president. I mean, the fact that they now want to, all of a sudden, talk to the former co-defendant who is serving approximately 20 years in prison. Yeah, none of this seems fishy at all. Related... Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, were on Nantucket Tuesday for a fundraising dinner at the Heather Lane home of Bob and Laura Reynolds that reportedly raised $3 millions, en route to which they were met by boos from an estimated 200 protesters. The second family landed at Nantucket Memorial Airport on Air Force Two at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 22. Their motorcade whisked them away from the airport via Bunker Road about 20 minutes later. They were later seen boating out to Great Point and back. Vance is believed to be staying in the Monomoy area and is scheduled to leave the island Wednesday. Around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday on the way to the dinner, the motorcade was turning onto Hinckley Lane off Cliff Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sides of Cliff Road at the intersection were packed with protesters who booed Vances motorcade as it arrived. The demonstration was organized by Indivisible Nantucket in collaboration with Indivisible Upper Cape, Mid-Cape Indivisible Group, Indivisible Outer Cape, Cape Cod Women for Change and Mass50501. Organizers also hosted Cape Cod resident Amanda McGonigle, who runs the viral Instagram account @catsonacouch and called for some of her million followers to join her for the Meowtucket event at Childrens Beach Tuesday afternoon. The crowd of protesters was made up of islanders as well as people who traveled from the mainland. A few were residents who lived on Hinckley Lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toby Sackton was one of them. If you took a survey of Hinckley Lane, in my opinion, the majority of people are against JD Vance, Sackton said Tuesday. There are a lot of people on the lane that have come out and supported this (protest). We dont want JD Vance to feel welcome here. Most of the other protesters marched from Childrens Beach, culminating a two-hour event where speeches were given and signs were made. A security checkpoint was set up by the Secret Service, Nantucket Police and state troopers at the intersection of Hinckley Lane and Cliff Road for anyone turning onto the road, be it homeowners, guests who paid either $100,000 or $250,000 to attend the Vance dinner or staff for the event. They also managed the crowd of protesters and traffic congestion created by the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fundraiser, organized by the Republican National Committee, brought in $3 million in donations, the New York Post reported. A number of counter-protesters drove on Cliff Road waving American flags and honking their horns. No incidents were reported. Protesters dispersed from the area after the Vance motorcade entered Hinckley Lane Tuesday and it was later able to leave without incident between 8:30 and 9 p.m. The Inquirer and Mirror on Nantucket is a news partner of MassLive.com. To subscribe to The Inquirer and Mirror, click here. More Cape & Islands content Read the original article on MassLive. Roy Black, the prominent criminal defense attorney who helped secure Jeffrey Epsteins 2008 plea deal, has died at the age of 80, his family confirmed. Black passed away at his home in Coral Gables, Florida, on Monday after battling an illness, his wife Lea Black told People magazine. Thank you for all your blessings, the Real Housewives of Miami alum wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. We will be announcing details for a tribute and celebration in a few weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black first gained national attention in 1991 when he secured an acquittal for former President John F. Kennedys nephew, William Kennedy Smith, in a high-profile rape trial a watershed moment for criminal defense, as the proceedings were broadcast live on national television. The attorney went on to play a central role in Epsteins legal defense as the financier was investigated in 2006 for multiple sex crimes involving dozens of underage girls. Rather than face federal indictment, Black and Epsteins lawyers negotiated a non-prosecution agreement with federal prosecutors in 2007, which was finalized in 2008. Jeffrey Epstein appears in court, July 30, 2008, in West Palm Beach, Florida (AP) Under the deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to state charges of soliciting prostitution and soliciting prostitution with a minor and received a 13-month jail sentence and was registered as a sex offender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black had represented a string of high-profile clients ranging from pop star Justin Bieber to race car driver Helio Castroneves. Most of the time, he was on the winning side, as noted by the Associated Press in their reporting. His clientele and courtroom success made him a regular on the Today Show and Larry King Live. Prominent attorneys and Blacks former colleagues have praised him for his exceptional legal skill and courtroom expertise. Roy Black was the greatest criminal lawyer of our generation, perhaps in American history, achieving acquittals over a span of 50 years in some of the most challenging and notorious cases of all time, partner of three decades at Black Srebnick, Howard Srebnick, told the Miami Herald. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Srebnicks colleague David O. Markus said that Black was the GOAT greatest of all time among Miamis criminal attorneys. This one really hurts, he wrote on his Southern District of Florida blog. He was 80. And he really was the GOAT of criminal defense lawyers. There are so many of us that want to be Roy in the courtroom commanding, persuasive, funny. Polish insurtech company Trasti has secured a 88.1m zlotys ($24.3m) investment from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in conjunction with the Triglav Group. The capital will support Trasti's expansion plans to enhance its digital insurance offerings, focusing on motor insurance policies linked to Triglav and aimed at improving its reach in the property and casualty segments and technological capabilities. Trasti CEO Janusz Wojtas said: Trasti is a modern, future-ready, digital insurer that, thanks to the technology and know-how of its team, is able to create local products based on universal processes real improvements to the customer experience. The investment of the EBRD and Triglav is not only financial support for us but also proof that our model works and works. We will use the funds raised for further bold innovations and questioning the usual patterns." Trasti also plans to elevate its corporate governance standards by implementing the IFRS accounting standards and refine its reporting framework to align with international norms. EBRD private equity co-head Tamas Nagy stated: Trasti is a prime example of a high-potential, tech-oriented company that we want to invest in Poland. We are pleased to have been able to bring in an experienced international investor like Triglav on board through this transaction and are confident that our partnership will enable Trasti to mature into a market leader. The EBRD has invested 16bn ($18.77bn) in 560 projects in Poland since 1991. In December, the EBRD and Aon established a 110m facility aimed at aiding Ukraine's economic recovery in the face of conflict. "Polish insurtech company Trasti garners funding from EBRD " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. A federal judge in Florida on July 23 denied the Department of Justices move to unseal grand jury transcripts from a federal investigation of Jeffrey Epstein as part of the first criminal case against him. DOJ announced on July 7 that its files on Epstein did not include a "client list" and that it had no evidence Epstein was murdered in his Manhattan jail cell before he was found dead in August 2019. A firestorm of controversy has erupted since the DOJ announcement and President Donald Trump is being questioned by his MAGA supporters why the documents aren't forthcoming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg, formerly a circuit court judge in Palm Beach County, said in a memo on July 23 that her "hands were tied" and that the DOJ hadn't shown sufficient evidence to release transcripts related to a federal investigation of Epstein in the 2000s. Take a tour of Jeffrey Epstein's former mansion in Palm Beach More: Latest on Trump, Jeffrey Epstein: Grand jury transcripts public in Palm Beach Post lawsuit The material sought in Rosenberg's court involved a 2006-08 federal investigation of Epstein that never resulted in an indictment. The infamous deal of the century, in which Epstein pleaded guilty to two state-court, prostitution-related felonies, eliminated any federal charges moot because it was part of an agreement not to prosecute them. Draft of federal indictment detailed at least 60 charges A draft of the federal indictment contained more than 60 counts of sexual misconduct with minors and sex trafficking, according to a disciplinary investigation of the federal prosecutors done by the Justice Department that concluded in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI and federal prosecutors were brought into the case in May 2006 by then-Palm Beach police Chief Michael Reiter, who told the Palm Beach County state attorney that he did not agree with the way the state attorneys prosecution was progressing. After giving this much thought and consideration, I must urge you to examine the unusual course that your offices handling of this matter has taken and consider if good and sufficient reason exists to require your disqualification from the prosecution of these cases, Reiter wrote to Barry Krischer, Palm Beach County's state attorney at the time. Krischer, among other issues, had sent the case to a state grand jury to consider whether Epstein should be charged, the first time a child sex crime case had been considered in the secret proceeding in Palm Beach County. The Palm Beach Post, in a 2019 investigation of how Krischer handled the case, learned that his prosecutors had discredited their own witnesses during questioning in front of grand jurors. The paper sued in 2019 in order to make public the transcripts of that grand jury which had resulted in only a single charge of solicitation of prostitution charge. Jeffrey Epstein state court grand jury transcripts were released in 2024 The state-court grand jury transcripts were released in July 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The documents showed prosecutors told the only two victims to testify during questioning that they themselves were the criminals. "Youre aware that you've committed a crime?" the prosecutor told a girl who was 14 when she went to Epsteins mansion. "Now I am," the victim said. "I didn't know it was a crime when I was doing it." Holly Baltz is an editor at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hbaltz@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jeffrey Epstein grand jury papers: Aren't they public? What to know A few months before ending service to Miami, JetBlue is beefing up its focus on Fort Lauderdale with new routes, more flights on existing routes, and more premium flights. The New York-based airline announced plans July 23 to launch four new year-round, nonstop routes at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Atlanta, Georgia; Austin, Texas; Norfolk, Virginia; and Tampa. JetBlue also plans to add an additional daily flight on existing routes from Fort Lauderdale to Las Vegas, Nevada; Los Angeles, California; Phoenix, Arizona; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; and Richmond, Virginia, to meet growing demand. Fort Lauderdale has long been a key market for JetBlue, and were excited to keep growing with the region, said Dave Jehn, JetBlues vice president, network planning and airline partnerships in a release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The additional flights to Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix will offer the airline's Mint business class fare. The announcement comes after the airline brought back previous flights from FLL to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Guayaquil, Ecuador. In April, JetBlue added a twice-daily, year-round route between La Guardia Airport in New York City and Tampa and a new daily flight between Fort Lauderdale and Guatemala City. It's not all expansion, though. In June, JetBlue announced it was pulling out of Miami International Airport (MIA) and canceled a few other underperforming routes elsewhere in the state. The last flights at Miami end Sept. 3, 2025, the airline said. What are the new JetBlue flights at Fort Lauderdale? Norfolk (ORF): New destination, 5x weekly, starting Dec. 4, 2025 Tampa (TPA): New destination, 1x daily, starting Dec. 4, 2025 Atlanta (ATL): Returning service, 1x daily, starting Dec. 4, 2025 Austin (AUS): Returning service, 2x daily, starting Nov. 20, 2025 Las Vegas (LAS): One additional Mint flight, making it 3x daily, starting Oct. 26, 2025 Los Angeles (LAX): One additional Mint flight, making it 6x daily, starting Nov. 21, 2025 Phoenix (PHX): One additional Mint flight, making it 2x daily, starting Oct. 26, 2025 Raleigh-Durham (RDU): One additional flight, making it 2x daily, starting Oct. 26, 2025 Richmond (RIC): One additional flight, making it 2x daily, starting Oct. 26, 2025 JetBlue adds Brightline integration The airline also went all in on South Florida in June when it partnered with Florida's passenger rail service Brightline by allowing JetBlue passengers to book both a plane and train trip directly on jetblue.com as part of a combined itinerary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This allows travelers to Florida to hop off a plane and onto a train (or shuttle to a train) heading to one of Brightline's stations from Orlando down the Sunshine State's east coast in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, and Miami. Changes at other airlines This year marks changes at several other airlines. Southwest announced that assigned seating (with a change to fares) starts in January. The company also ended free bags, made its fares available on Expedia, adjusted its loyalty program, launched red-eye flights, and partnered with Icelandair. In June, Spirit Airlines reworked its ticket lineup to make the choices easier to understand and to emphasize that the budget airline offers high-value options as well. The change came a few months after Spirit updated its loyalty program and started offering extra legroom seating for the "Go Comfy" ticketholders (now called "Premium Economy"). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also in June, United Airlines started requiring all domestic passengers to be checked in for their flights 45 minutes before departure. Previously, check in for passengers without checked bags closed half an hour before departure. Which Florida airports does JetBlue fly out of? JetBlue currently flies out of 10 Florida airports: Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL) Fort Myers International Airport (RSW) Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) Key West International Airport (EYW) Miami International Airport (MIA) (ending Sept, 3, 2025) Orlando International Airport (MCO) Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) Tallahassee International Airport (TLH) Tampa International Airport {TPA) Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: JetBlue flights, new, returning at Fort Lauderdale FLL airport AUSTIN (KXAN) JetBlue Airways will relaunch a nonstop route between Austin and Fort Lauderdale in November. Twice-daily flights will begin Nov. 20, the airline said. JetBlue previously flew the AUS-FLL route, but canceled it in May 2024 along with routes between several other cities. At the time, a spokesperson said the markets have recently fallen short of our expectations. In a press release Wednesday, the airline said the route was one of several being launched from Fort Lauderdale. Rivals Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines currently serve the AUS-FLL route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austin asked and we listened, a spokesperson said. With two daily flights, its easy for customers in Austin to swap Sixth Street for the surf. Whether youre headed to soak up the sun in Florida or connect to Latin America or the Caribbean, this route opens a whole new world of seaside adventures. Flights will leave Austin at 6:20 a.m. and 2:05 p.m. daily, with return flights landing in Austin at 1:11 p.m. and 10:08 p.m. JetBlue will use Airbus A320 aircraft on the route. AUS Data Hub: Passenger totals, busiest months and new flights in 2025 JetBlues passenger numbers at AUS have been dwindling in recent years. In 2019, almost 600,000 people flew in and out of Austin on the airline, accounting for about 3.3% of all passengers at the airport. By 2024, the number was cut by about a third to fewer than 200,000 passengers a share of 0.9%. The airline canceled nonstop service to Newark and Los Angeles in February 2023, followed by Fort Lauderdale in May 2024 and New York JFK in December 2024. Currently, Boston is the only nonstop route served by the airline from AUS. Advertisement 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 KXAN Austin. Las Vegas(KLAS)-J-Cares is a local community service initiative through Jewish Nevada. Its efforts are inspired by the Jewish value of tikkun olam, meaning repairing the world. This year, they are collecting school supplies to fill backpacks for students from underprivileged families, giving them the tools to begin the school year prepared for success. The drive lasts until August 1, and they are hoping to provide school supplies to 150-200 kids this year. Donations may include pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, crayons, glue, binders, loose-leaf paper, writing pads, scissors, backpacks, lunch boxes, calculators, and sharpeners. Monetary contributions are also welcome, as J-Cares can purchase supplies on donors behalf. Donations can be dropped off at the Jewish Community Center, 8861 W Sahara Ave STE 120, Las Vegas, NV 89117. To make a monetary donation, visit www.jewishnevada.org/jcaresbacktoschool Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, Aug. 7, from 4 6 p.m., families will come to the JCC to collect their school supplies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, is blasting a measure from House Republicans that would rename the Kennedy Centers famed Opera House in honor of Melania Trump. A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers, Schlossberg, quoting his grandfather, wrote in a Tuesday post on Instagram. JFK believed the arts made our country great and could be our most effective weapon in the fight for civil rights and against authoritarian governments around the world, Schlossberg, a vocal critic of President Trump, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration stands for freedom of oppression, not expression, he added. [Trump] uses his awesome powers to suppress free expression and instill fear, the 32-year-old son of former U.S. ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg said. Schlossbergs social media post came after House Republicans on the Appropriations Committee approved an amendment to the interior, environment and related agencies annual spending bill on Tuesday that would rename the opera house in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts the First Lady Melania Trump Opera House. Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho) called the move an excellent way to recognize [Melania Trumps] support and commitment to promoting the arts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Opera House renaming effort came after the president, accusing the Kennedy Center of being too woke, overhauled its board in February and named himself its chair. But Schlossberg said the potential name change to the prominent institutions Opera House was not about the arts. Trump is obsessed with being bigger than JFK , with minimizing the many heroes of our past, as if that elevates him. It doesnt, he said. But theres hope, Schlossberg wrote to his nearly 700,000 followers, art lasts forever, and no one can change what JFK and our shared history stands 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 The Hill. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. A northeast Arkansas man has been sentenced to serve almost two decades for drug charges. Federal prosecutors said 41-year-old Thomas Demetrius Williams, a felon with multiple convictions, was sentenced on Monday to 18 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Williams pleaded guilty on April 29, 2024. Parents leave baby alone in car to drink at bar: Florida sheriff Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said Williams was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. On Oct. 12, 2021, authorities said they received information that Williams had a large amount of methamphetamine. After learning that Williams was on parole with an active search waiver on file, police went to his home to conduct a parole search. When they arrived, authorities said they saw three cars in the driveway, with Williams girlfriend and a child in a grey car. Police said Williams girlfriend stated that the grey car belonged to Williams. After circling the block, law enforcement officers saw that a white car previously in Williams driveway was no longer there. During the parole search of the home, police said they found a debit card in Williams name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While waiting for a canine officer for a further search, police said Williams was seen driving by the home in the white car before stopping and talking to law enforcement officer. Police said the canine officer then searched the area and alerted officers that there were narcotics in the grey car. Upon searching the car, police said they found a bag that had 730.4 grams of pure methamphetamine, 299.5 grams of marijuana, 19.7651 grams of ecstasy pills, 4.7289 grams of oxycodone pills, $1,999 in cash, and a stolen handgun. Van Buren police officer accused of internet stalking of a child Prosecutors noted that Williams was sentenced as a career offender on the drug conviction due to a prior criminal history that included aggravated assault, three domestic battery convictions, a terroristic threatening conviction, three serious drug convictions, drug trafficking convictions, and felon in possession of firearm convictions. Advertisement 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. Adient employs more than 70,000 people worldwide and operates more than 200 plants, including 30 in the United States. Automotive seating manufacturer Adient is setting up shop next to the Rivian plant in Normal, Ill., as the electric-vehicle maker gears up to make a new, smaller SUV. Adient plans to invest more than $8 million and create at least 75 jobs, the state of Illinois says. The company will receive an estimated $4 million in credits for payroll taxes under a state incentive program aimed at EV manufacturers and suppliers. It was not immediately clear if the Normal operation represents new business for Adient. A spokesperson for Adient declined to provide further details about the plant. A Rivian spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment by Automotive News. Adient employs more than 70,000 people worldwide and operates more than 200 plants, including 30 in the United States. It serves virtually all the worlds automakers, including the Detroit 3, Toyota Motor Corp., Honda Motor Co. and Volkswagen Group. The company ranks No. 18 on the Automotive News list of the top 100 global suppliers, generating $14.7 billion in worldwide sales to automakers in 2024. Future Product Find our what powertrains, redesigns and freshenings are planned for the next four years. View the list Brand future product timelines Rivian has been the biggest success so far in Illinois move to become an EV manufacturing hub. The company employs more than 8,000 people at its assembly plant in Normal. In addition to its electric truck, SUV and a commercial delivery van, Rivian is preparing to manufacture a smaller, less expensive SUV. The Irvine, Calif.-based company bought the vacant former Diamond-Star Motors manufacturing plant in Normal in 2017. Rivian has steadily added to the facility and plans to create a supplier park. Adients new facility in Normal is a critical investment in our states growing EV ecosystem and supply chain, Gov. JB Pritzker said in a statement. Sign up for the weekly Automotive News Mobility Report newsletter for the latest developments at the intersection of transportation and technology. Gotion, another Rivian supplier, is ramping up a battery production facility in Manteno that is expected to employ up to 2,600 people. Its expected to start assembling industrial batteries for wind and solar energy storage this year, followed by EV batteries. Rivian and the rest of the EV industry face a key test later this year when federal rebates for EVs are set to expire. Have an opinion about this story? Tell us about it and we may publish it in print. Click here to submit a letter to the editor. JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) A parcel of land off of E. Main Street is currently being developed for single-family housing, further adding to the growth of the Town of Jonesborough. Its not always popular to cut up a piece of property and build a bunch of houses when you live here, but when youre the one moving here, youre usually grateful for having those opportunities and places to live, said Jason Day, a development contractor in Jonesborough. Day said the development off E Main Street is called Chapmans Reserve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wolfe outlines goals upon return as Jonesborough mayor That land sat there available for a long time, and when we kind of put a vision together for it, Day said. I think everybody was overlooking it, and we decided to work at it. So, we got it. Jonesborough is considered one of the fastest-growing towns. According to U.S. Census data, Jonesboroughs population grew 15% from 2020 to 2024. In a statement, Jonesborough Town Administrator Glen Rosenoff said the following: Housing is now meeting the demands of the increase in population, with many developments having available homes, and many still in the housing construction phase. With great growth comes great responsibilities in the improvement of infrastructure such as roads, water, sewer, and sanitation, public facilities, technology, and the ability to respond to the public through instant messaging. The town has already been investing in current technologies and exploring other plans to help town staff respond more effectively and efficiently to the unprecedented volume of inquiries being made to the town. Jonesborough Town Administrator Glen Rosenoff Rosenoff also said the town has approved 12 residential developments, totaling 904 units. This does not count individual residential unit construction outside an approved residential development, said Rosenoff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Day said he understands the frustrations that may come with population growth. I think every city in this area is struggling right now, really, and we have so much growth in our area because it is such a great place to live, Day said. I think, you know, sewer water is a problem, roads are a problem, red lights are a problem. Theres a lot of infrastructure issues that the cities internally are having to deal with. However, Day said growth can be a positive thing for the community. Nobody necessarily wants a bunch of growth, but at the same time, growth is good for the community, Day said. New homes provide new people, new people are able to work, so, um, I think at the end of the day it makes the communities better, stronger, makes the schools better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosenoff also provided News Channel 11 with statistics from the Tennessee State Data Center and UT Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research: According to the statistics, between 2022 to 2023, Jonesboroughs change (increase) was estimated at 5.3%. Out of 345 incorporated places in Tennessee, only seven (7) cities, including Jonesborough, gained a population increase of 5% or greater, or in other words, only 2% of all Tennessee cities achieved this status. Between 2023 to 2024, Jonesboroughs change (increase) was estimated at 4%. Out of 345 incorporated places in Tennessee, only nine (9) cities, including Jonesborough, gained a population increase of 4% or greater, or in other words, only 2.6% of all Tennessee cities achieved this status. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) One of Tennessees longest-running newspapers, the 156-year-old Jonesborough Herald & Tribune, will publish its final edition Aug. 13 as the paper folds its content into the Johnson City Press. Six Rivers Media, which owns both papers as well as the Kingsport Times-News and several other Northeast Tennessee weeklies, announced the decision Tuesday afternoon. The short announcement noted ongoing challenges in the local news industry, including declining advertising revenue and subscriber numbers. The papers own website shows the paper first went to press in August 1869 under original publishers Dr. C. Wheeler and Dr. M.S. Mahoney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill Breeden, who owned the paper starting in 1970, built its current offices at 702 W. Jackson Blvd. From 1981 to 2002, the Carl A. Jones Newspaper Group, which also owned the Press, Erwin Record and Mountain City Tomahawk, bought the Herald & Tribune. The Jones family sold to Sandusky Newspapers in 2002. Six Rivers Media is owned by the family that owned Sandusky. News Channel 11 has reached out to Six Rivers with additional questions about the decision. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Joplin man who was charged earlier this year in a downtown shooting in February has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Springfield. The indictment replaces a federal charge filed July 2 against Andrew Michael Reed, 22. The indictment alleges it was illegal for Reed to possess a gun allegedly used in a Feb. 15 shooting in downtown Joplin because he has been convicted of previous felony charges. Joplin police were called the night of Feb. 15 to the area of Fifth Street and Joplin Avenue because of shots being fired. According to police information at the time, a shooter damaged two downtown buildings and two cars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers said that they recovered several spent cartridge casings in the area. They also found a firearm with a 30-round extended magazine loaded with ammunition consistent with the spent casings. Surveillance footage from a nearby business showed a man, later identified as Reed, hiding the firearm, according to records. Reed has prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms, according to the U.S. attorney's office. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition, federal authorities said in a statement. After the alleged shooting, Reed had been charged in Jasper County with first-degree property damage, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon in connection with the incident. In a probable-cause affidavit in the Jasper County court record, a Joplin police officer stated that police responded to a report of gunshots at 2 a.m. Feb. 15 downtown and saw several casings in the area when they arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One witness told police he saw Reed shoot at him after having assaulted him. A second witness told investigators he heard gunshots and saw a man run from the area with a gun in his hand. A third witness provided a video surveillance recording that shows Reed stashing a pistol under a dumpster as he was on the run from the scene, according to the affidavit. The pistol was recovered by police, and it matched the caliber of casings found at the scene, the affidavit states. Law enforcement officers requested that a warrant be issued for Reed rather than a summons because Reed has a history of failure to appear in court, court documents stated at the time local charges were sought against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the affidavit in the local charges stated that officers believed Reed was a danger to crime victims and the community because Reed has been involved in several violent incidents in Joplin, Missouri, since 2021. The federal case was investigated by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Joplin Police Department. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Mahoning County Probate Judge Robert Rusu Monday approved a proposed settlement for the mother of the man who died in the Realty Building explosion last year. The settlement awards the mother of Akil Drake, 27, who was killed in the May 27, 2024, explosion of the building at West Federal Street and Wick Avenue $6.1 million. Of the $6.1 million, the family will receive $3.6 million after attorneys fees and other expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drakes estate reached a settlement with Yo Properties 47, LLC; Live Youngstown Property Management; Greenheart Companies, LLC; Enbridge Gas Ohio, Dominion Energy and its affiliates. The judges approval Monday follows a hearing he held Thursday on the settlement. Drake worked at a bank that had a branch in the building and was working when the building exploded. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the explosion and has yet to issue a final report on what caused the explosion, which injured several other people and led to the building being demolished. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GREENBELT, Md. (AP) Judge bans Trump administration from immediately taking Abrego Garcia into custody if hes released from Tennessee jail. In two rulings issued within a curiously short time of each other Wednesday afternoon, a federal judge in Tennessee cleared the way for Kilmar Abrego Garcia to be released from custody pending his criminal trial and a federal judge in Maryland barred the Trump administration from detaining him for immigration proceedings once hes released. The pair of highly anticipated rulings means Abrego Garcia could soon be returned to Maryland, where he was unlawfully picked up in March by immigration enforcement and wrongfully deported to El Salvador in violation of an immigration judges order that barred his removal to his home country. With the Trump administration still determined to remove Abrego Garcia quite likely to a third country he remains at risk. But in her new order, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis of Maryland imposed several conditions that require the Trump administration to provide Abrego Garcia due process in any subsequent proceedings. She ordered his immigration case restored to the jurisdiction of the ICE field office in Baltimore and required the Trump administration to give him and his lawyers 72 hours written notice before removing him to a third country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In issuing her ruling, Xinis said she was trying to restore Abrego Garcia to what had been the status quo before his wrongful removal, a condition imposed by the Supreme Court earlier in this case when it said the Trump administration must facilitate Abrego Garcias return. After months of foot-dragging and stone-walling, the Trump administration did return him from El Salvador, but immediately took him into custody on criminal charges that had been kept sealed. In her ruling today, Judge Xinis wrote that Abrego Garcias return was similar to his removal: in secret and with no advance notice. The Trump administration did not notify her or Abrego Garcias lawyers of his return. One of his lawyers said in recent hearing that he learned of his clients return via ABC News. It was that history of defiance and lack of transparency with the court that Xinis used to justify in part her order barring the Department of Homeland Security from detaining Abrego Garcia as soon as he is released from the custody of the Department of Justice in the criminal case. Defendants defiance and footdragging are, to be sure, the subject of a separate sanctions motion, she wrote in her ruling. The Court will not recount this troubling history in detail, other than to note Defendants persistent lack of transparency with the tribunal adds to why further injunctive relief is warranted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Tennessee criminal case, U.S. District Judge Waverly D. Crenshaw Jr. essentially upheld an earlier decision by a magistrate judge that Abrego Garca could be released pending trial with conditions. The Government has failed to show on appeal that this case is one of the carefully limited exception[s] where detention pending trial is justified, entitling Abrego to his liberty in the meantime, Crenshaw ruled. Crenshaw didnt order Abrego Garcias immediate release; rather, he referred back to the magistrate to issue an order specifying the conditions of release. While the precise timing of the issuances of the two rulings cannot be immediately determined, it appears that Xinis was poised to issue her ruling as soon as Crenshaw ordered Abrego Garcias release. In proceedings more than a week ago, Xinis was well aware that Crenshaws decision was pending. She had pondered aloud in open court whether she could issue her order before Crenshaw issued his. She worried that her order might not yet be proper since Crenshaw could still rule to keep Abrego Garcia in custody. But she also was concerned that DHS might swoop in to detain him and take him out of her jurisdiction before she could rule. It appears her solution was to wait for Crenshaw to rule and issue her own decision immediately. Its not clear if there was any coordination between the two courts. In the meantime, Abrego Garcias lawyers had filed a motion in the Tennessee case to delay his release for 30 days. The Trump administration did not oppose the motion. Since this story was first published, the magistrate judge granted that motion, delaying Abrego Garcias release from custody for 30 days. Given Judge Xinis robust order protecting their client from being detained by DHS, Abrego Garcias lawyers may now seek to speed up his release or they may wait to see if the Trump administration appeals her order. In crafting procedural safeguards to prevent the Trump administration from again removing Abrego Garcia without having restored him to the status quo ante and without due process, Xinis was particularly concerned about the prospect of him being deported to a third county then immediately transferred on to El Salvador, defying the immigration judge order and depriving U.S. courts of jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defendants have taken no concrete steps to ensure that any prospective third country would not summarily return Abrego Garcia to El Salvador in an end-run around the very withholding order that offers him uncontroverted protection, Xinis wrote, pointing to the well-publicized case of Guatemalan national O.C.G. and last weekends repatriation of the Venezuelan detainees at CECOT, despite asylum claims by some of the detainees. In a sign of the distrust Xinis has for the Trump administration given how fast and loose its played in this and other cases, she expressly required it to immediately distribute her opinion and order to all relevant officers, agents, and employees under their control, including but not limited to: the United States Marshals Service in the Middle District of Tennessee, the ICE New Orleans Regional Office, the ICE Baltimore Field Office, and all personnel involved in this matter or the pending criminal case. Judge Xinis opinion: Judge Crenshaws opinion: A magistrate judge in Tennessee has paused accused MS-13 gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia's release from criminal custody for 30 days, shortly after a separate judge ruled he should be returned to Maryland if released while awaiting trial. Abrego Garcia has been awaiting his release on bail after pleading not guilty last month to human smuggling charges in Tennessee. "Abrego shall therefore remain in the custody of the United States Marshal pending further order, as previously directed," U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes said Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Abrego Garcia's attorneys request 30-day stay if he is ordered released pending trial Abrego Garcia's attorneys requested the stay on Monday because they were advised by the government that if Abrego Garcia were released, the Department of Homeland Security would begin removal proceedings. "Given the uncertainty of the outcome of any removal proceedings, Mr. Abrego respectfully requests that, should the Court deny the government's motion for revocation, the issuance of an order releasing Mr. Abrego be delayed for 30 days to allow Mr. Abrego to evaluate his options and determine whether additional relief is necessary," his lawyers wrote on Monday. Wednesday's ruling came shortly after U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the Trump administration to return Abrego Garcia to Maryland and blocked the administration from detaining and deporting him upon his release from criminal custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xinis ruled that the U.S. government "shall restore Abrego Garcia to his ICE Order of Supervision out of the Baltimore Field Office." Abrego Garcia Family via Reuters - PHOTO: Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran migrant in this handout image obtained by Reuters on April 9, 2025. Judge Xinis said her order to have Abrego Garcia placed under ICE supervision in Maryland, where he was living with his wife and children before he was mistakenly deported in March, is necessary to "provide the kind of effective relief to which a wrongfully removed alien is entitled upon return." The federal judge said her order, which also requires the government to provide 72 hours' notice if it intends to deport him to a third country, is "narrowly tailored" to allow the Trump administration to initiate "lawful immigration proceedings upon Abrego Garcia's return to Maryland." The immigration proceedings may or may not include "lawful arrest, detention and eventual removal," Xinis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This decision follows a separate ruling in Abrego Garcia's criminal case where U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw denied the government's motion to revoke a magistrate judge's order for Abrego Garcia's release. Judge Crenshaw said on Wednesday that Abrego Garcia "shall be released upon the issuance of the Magistrate Judge's release order with conditions." Judge Crenshaw said he was not persuaded that "Abrego's unlawful removal from the United States now presents a risk that he will fail to appear in court to avoid similar treatment in the future." In his memo, Judge Crenshaw said that testimony provided by Peter Joseph, a Homeland Security agent, that Abrego Garcia transported both Barrio 18 and MS-13 gang members cuts against "the already slim evidence demonstrating Abrego is a member of MS-13." MORE: Timeline: Wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For the Court to find that Abrego is member of or in affiliation with MS13, it would have to make so many inferences from the Government's proffered evidence in its favor that such conclusion would border on fanciful," Judge Crenshaw wrote. Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran native, was deported in March to El Salvador's CECOT mega-prison -- despite a 2019 court order barring his deportation to that country due to fear of persecution -- after the Trump administration claimed he was a member of the criminal gang MS-13, which he denies. He was brought back to the U.S. last month to face charges in Tennessee of allegedly transporting undocumented migrants within the U.S. while he was living in Maryland. Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin slammed Wednesday's rulings in a series of posts on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "MS-13 gang member, human trafficker and criminal illegal alien will never walk America's streets again," McLaughlin said in one post. MORE: ICE official testifies about Kilmar Abrego Garcia's possible deportation "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest an MS-13 gang member, indicted by a grand jury for human trafficking, and subject to immigration arrest under federal law is LAWLESS AND INSANE," she said in another. Abrego Garcia's immigration attorney called the rulings "a powerful rebuke of the government's lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for [Abrego Garcia's] due process rights." "A federal judge has now barred ICE from taking him back into custody in Tennessee, and ordered that any future deportation attempt must come with advance notice," Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg told ABC News. "After the government unlawfully deported him once without warning, this legal protection is essential. We are grateful the court recognized that Kilmar's rights and safety are at stake, and that the government's past actions give serious cause for concern." A federal judge in Florida on Wednesday declined the Justice Departments request to unseal grand jury transcripts from a probe into the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The Courts hands are tied a point that the government concedes, wrote U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg. The Justice Department last week asked Rosenberg to release the documents stemming from federal investigations in Florida in 2005 and 2007, court papers show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The request cited extensive public interest in Epsteins case since the agency made public its determination that Epstein did not have a client list and died by suicide in a New York City prison in 2019 while awaiting trial findings that have infuriated some of Trumps most fervent supporters. The decision thwarts Trumps efforts to tamp down criticism from his political base for now but does not affect the administrations other pending requests to release grand jury transcripts tied to later federal investigations of Epstein and his accomplice, Ghislane Maxwell, in New York. Rosenberg determined that the governments request to unseal the documents did not amount to any exceptions to the rules that require grand jury material to stay secret. She noted that appellate court precedent bars her from ordering the release of records in instances not covered by the exceptions. The Court cannot grant a request for disclosure unless one of the five exceptionsapplies, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Department also asked the judge to transfer the case to the Southern District of New York, where its other pending requests are. Rosenberg denied that request, as well, closing the case in which the governments request was made while ordering the creation of a new case to retain the request and her denial. The judges overseeing the Trump administrations bid to unseal other grand jury information in New York set schedules for briefing the matter Tuesday, ordering the government to turn over the sealed grand jury material and make more detailed arguments by July 29. Submissions from Maxwell, Epsteins representatives and victims are due Aug. 5. They promised to rule expeditiously afterward. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has taken the lead so far on the effort. The lawyer representing Maxwell, David Oscar Markus, is a friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until now, no administration on behalf of the Department had inquired about her willingness to meet with the government, Blanche said in a statement Tuesday. That changes now. Markus confirmed that talks were underway to see if Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison term for helping Epstein carry out his sex trafficking scheme, would speak with DOJ prosecutors about her knowledge. He said Maxwell would always testify truthfully and expressing gratitude to Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case. One of the federal judges in New York, U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer, on Wednesday denied Maxwells request for access to the grand jury transcripts in her case, calling it black-letter law that defendants are typically not allowed to view that material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epsteins death has long captivated conspiracists, who have for years claimed the government is covering up the truth about the convicted sex-offenders ties to prominent public figures. Updated 3:31 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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) A judge has denied bond for former death row inmate Richard Glossip, who faced execution nine times for a killing he says he never committed. Earlier this week, attorneys for Glossip filed a motion asking the court to release Glossip in accordance with a deal reached with Attorney General Gentner Drummond in April 2023. This came after the Supreme Court tossed out Glossips conviction and ordered a new trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Glossip was convicted in the 1997 murder-for-hire plot of his former boss, motel owner Barry Van Treese. Justin Sneed, the key witness in the case, confessed to killing Van Treese with a bat and testified that Glossip hired him for the crime. In exchange, Sneed was given a life sentence, while Glossip received the death penalty. Glossips attorneys argue he should have been let go already based on an alleged deal with the Attorney General back in 2023. As part of the deal, Glossip would plead guilty to an accessory charge and receive a sentence of 45 years in prison with time served and good behavior credit that would make Glossip eligible for release immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email exchange between AG Drummonds team and Glossips attorneys, Drummond responds, saying, we are in agreement. However, in his own court filing later, Drummond said the plea bargain was unfinalized and long abandoned by both parties. During the hearing in June, requesting bond for Glossip, his attorneys told the judge Glossip is 100% committed to the process, was not a flight risk, and had nowhere to hide. The state pushed back, arguing Glossip was a flight risk and was manipulative, specifically with women. Ultimately, the judge said she needed more time to review the case, but would make a decision by July 23rd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OK Criminal Defense Attorney breaks down Richard Glossips request for release Just before 5 p.m. Wednesday, that decision was made public, denying Glossips bond request. Glossips attorneys had nothing to say afterwards, but the AGs office sent us a statement. We are pleased that the judge denied the defendants request for bail and are ready to proceed to trial. Attorney Generals Office The chair of the Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty called the decision disappointing. The tragedy of Richard Glossip rests not with the man, but with the state of Oklahoma. The United States Supreme Court has ruled that the prosecution knew Sneeds (the person who incriminated Mr. Glossip) statements were false as he testified to them. In 1959, the USSC ruled that prosecutors violate the Constitution when they knowingly obtain a conviction using false evidence either by soliciting false testimony or allowing false testimony to stand without correcting it. The state of Oklahoma allowed the case to stand for some thirty years. This is the travesty that should concern all Oklahomans. Mr. Glossip should be exonerated and allowed to walk free. Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty Attorney General Drummond said while he doesnt believe Glossip is innocent, he does believe a new trial can be fair, and that is where it appears this is headed now. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON A federal judge in Florida ruled Wednesday that the court's "hands are tied" in releasing federal grand jury transcripts from 2005 and 2007 in connection with an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The ruling was separate from a request the Justice Department has pending related to a grand jury in the Southern District of New York, where Epstein was ultimately indicted. Epstein died in 2019 while he awaited trial in New York. An accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, was convicted in 2021 and is serving a 20-year sentence. In the Florida case, U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg said that, though the government believes special circumstances exist and the policy reasons for grand jury secrecy have expired, its rationales "are no exceptions" to grand jury secrecy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New York Times was first to report on the ruling. The government, Rosenberg wrote, "has effectively conceded that the Court's hands are tied" because of a binding precedent by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Rosenberg noted that two other appeals courts have allowed additional exceptions to releasing grand jury material. One is the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, whose jurisdiction includes New York City, where the administration has moved to unseal additional grand jury testimony relating to the Epstein and Maxwell investigations. Trump last week directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to produce any and all pertinent Grand Jury testimony in the Epstein case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The directive came after fierce public backlash to an unsigned joint Justice Department-FBI memo saying they had reviewed the case against Epstein and Maxwell and that no other people would be charged in connection with their trafficking of minors and that no additional material or evidence would be released. Trump's order also came hours after The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump sent a bawdy 50th birthday letter to Epstein in 2003. NBC News has not independently verified the documents, and Trump denied sending such a letter. Trump has sued the newspapers publisher, two of its reporters and News Corp. founder Rupert Murdoch over the story (the newspaper has said it stands by its reporting). Epsteins criminal case and death in 2019, which was ruled a suicide, have long been the subjects of conspiracy theories. Trump and his allies were among those who spread or supported such theories during his presidential campaign. The documents in Florida relate to the initial investigation into Epstein in Florida in 2005. The ruling said there had been two grand juries in the case one in 2005 and the other in 2007. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein, whose social circle had included the likes of Trump, former President Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, struck a much-scrutinized deal that allowed him to plead guilty to state solicitation charges involving a single underage victim, despite investigations into dozens of others. Federal prosecutors now say he harmed over 1,000 victims. Rosenberg's ruling said the government essentially conceded that she did not have the authority to release the transcripts, but her swift decision will allow the administration to ask the 11th Circuit to reconsider its earlier ruling on grand jury secrecy. The Justice Department said it was reviewing the ruling and would not comment further. The 2nd Circuit has held that judges have inherent authority to release grand jury materials in special or exceptional circumstances and that "historical interest" and the passage of time are among the factors they can consider. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two judges are considering the government's requests in New York. One is in the case that had been brought against Epstein, and the other is in the case that had been brought against Maxwell, who is appealing her conviction to the Supreme Court. Those judges are moving more methodically than Rosenberg, and it will be at least two weeks if not several weeks longer before they make any decisions on the request. The judges in New York asked for far more information in the case while they weigh the government's motion and have directed the Justice Department to provide them with grand jury materials under seal and with proposed redactions by next week. They have also asked Maxwells and Epsteins attorneys to provide a letter setting out their respective positions about the materials becoming public on or by Aug. 5. The judges said victims can submit letters sharing their positions by Aug. 5, as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After those submissions are filed, the judges may or may not hold hearings. They could also take the submissions and issue rulings at some point. Maxwell's attorneys had asked to review the transcripts themselves before they state their position, a request a New York federal judge rejected Wednesday. The Court will review these transcripts expeditiously. In the event the Court determines it would benefit from Maxwells commentary as to a discrete aspect of these transcripts, the Court stands ready to make that excerpt, or a synopsis thereof, available to her counsel to facilitate counsels briefing, U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer wrote. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The internet-famous TikTok account Sylvanian Drama is now at the center of a real-world legal battle, as its creator faces a lawsuit from the brand behind the toys. Most Read from Fast Company If youre unfamiliar, Sylvanian Drama features Sylvanian Families figurines (known as Calico Critters in the U.S.) acting out wild, often dark storylines involving kidnappings, drug abuse, and murder. One of its most viral videos, titled My Marriage Is Falling Apart, has amassed 22.1 million views. A top comment calls it Shakespearean. Thea Von Engelbrechten, based in Kildare, Ireland, launched the account in 2021. She later dropped out of college as the account exploded in popularity (it now has 2.5 million followers) and has since collaborated with brands like Netflix, Burberry, and Sephora. But in April, the drama left TikTok and landed in court. Epoch Companythe parent brand of Sylvanian Familiesfiled a copyright lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, as first reported by the Irish Independent. The company accuses Von Engelbrechten of copyright and trademark infringement, as well as unfair competition. According to the complaint, Defendant is working to build Sylvanian Dramas own brand image as an advertising and content creation service provider at the expense of Epochs goodwill it has built over decades, Vulture reports. Epoch states that TikTok had removed some videos following a Digital Millennium Copyright Act notice issued in October 2023. However, after failing to reach a lasting agreement with Von Engelbrechten, the company wrote that it had no choice but to file this lawsuit. The case underscores a broader issue: the legal risks creators face when centering content around trademarked brands. Epoch is seeking statutory damages of up to $150,000 per infringed work, in addition to profits generated by the Sylvanian Drama account. A pretrial conference is scheduled for August 14, during which both legal teams will explore settlement options or prepare for trial. Von Engelbrechten has not publicly addressed the lawsuit, and Sylvanian Drama has not posted on any platform since January. (Fast Company has reached out to her for comment.) Meanwhile, fans have flooded the accounts pinned videos with messages of support. Someone make her a GoFundMe, one commenter wrote. Designer Jeffrey Men, creator of the toy company Fancy Teddy, tells Fast Company: Self-expression should be celebrated, not suppressed. As a small, creator-led brand, I stand with anyone reimagining what toys can mean. This post originally appeared at fastcompany.com Subscribe to get the Fast Company newsletter: http://fastcompany.com/newsletters A federal judge in Florida has denied the Justice Departments request that grand jury transcripts from the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein be made public, hindering President Donald Trumps efforts to tamp down criticism from his base about not releasing more files from the late financiers sex-trafficking case. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg determined Monday that the request did not fall under any of the exceptions to requirements that grand jury material remain sealed. Grand jury transcripts are highly shielded to protect victims and witnesses, and its rare for a judge to make them public. Despite that unlikelihood, Attorney General Pam Bondi made the request with the court last Friday. In her motion, she defended the Justice Departments decision earlier this month not to release any more files but acknowledged there remains extensive public interest in how the Trump administration reached that conclusion. Releasing grand jury transcripts, the motion argued, could help address that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosenberg rejected that. The request to unseal arises from the Governments internal investigation, from its public statements about that investigation, and from great public interest in the investigation, but it does not arise from the [proceedings] themselves, she wrote. Bondis argument that special circumstances exist, Rosenberg wrote, does not allow the court to make a new kind of exception. Even the request for the transcripts conceded that the Courts hands are tied, she continued. In a TruthSocial post after his Justice Department filed the request, Trump characterized it as something his opponents were pestering him about even though his own base, which remains highly interested in the Epstein files and connected conspiracy theories, was similarly frustrated with his about-face on the files. I have asked the Justice Department to release all Grand Jury testimony with respect to Jeffrey Epstein, subject only to Court Approval, he wrote. With that being said, and even if the Court gave its full and unwavering approval, nothing will be good enough for the troublemakers and radical left lunatics making the request. It will always be more, more, more. MAGA! A federal judge in Florida denied one of three Justice Department requests to unseal grand jury records tied to federal investigations into Epstein, according to a public order released Wednesday. The request is one of three made by the Justice Department to judges in New York and Florida seeking to unseal records from federal investigations into Epstein. New York State Sex Offender Registry via AP - PHOTO: This photo provided by the New York State Sex Offender Registry shows Jeffrey Epstein, March 28, 2017. According to the order by District Judge Robin Rosenberg, the records the department sought to unseal related to grand juries convened in West Palm Beach in 2005 and 2007 that had investigated Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Judge overseeing DOJ Epstein grand jury records request asks for more information Judge Rosenberg faulted the Justice Department for failing to outline sufficient arguments to justify the unsealing of the records, which are normally protected under strict secrecy rules. Rosenberg's opinion states her "hands are tied" given existing precedent in the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals which only permits the disclosure of such grand jury materials under narrow exceptions. She further denied a request to transfer the issue into the jurisdiction of the Southern District of New York, where two judges are separately mulling over similar motions from the department seeking to unseal grand jury records tied to Epstein and his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Justice Department spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the order. Meanwhile, a federal judge in New York denied Ghislaine Maxwell's request to review grand jury testimony related to Epstein. "It is black-letter law that defendants generally are not entitled to access to grand jury materials," U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer wrote. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images, Files - PHOTO: Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks during a news conference with President Donald Trump in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House, June 27, 2025, in Washington. Maxwell's lawyers requested access to the sensitive grand jury records to determine if Maxwell would take a position on the records' release. Judge Engelmayer wrote that there is no "compelling necessity" for Maxwell to review the records. An objection from Maxwell into unsealing the records could further complicate the process of potentially releasing the records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She has not shown, or attempted to show, that the grand jury materials in her case are apt to reveal any deficiency in the proceedings leading to her indictment," he wrote. Judge Engelmayer noted that he plans to "expeditiously" review the transcripts himself and would consider providing an excerpt or synopsis to Maxwell's lawyers. A Florida judge on Wednesday rejected a request from the Department of Justice to release grand jury documents related to the criminal investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg denied the request, saying her hands are tied. In its petition, the DOJ cites the publics strong interest as one reason for unsealing the grand jury transcripts from West Palm Beach in 2005 and 2007. But in the order, Rosenberg writes that the governments request to unseal the grand jury transcripts is not based on any of the exceptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosenberg also rejected the DOJs request to have the case transferred to the Southern District of New York. The judge also ordered that a new case should be opened as a matter of public interest and should include the DOJs petition and her denial. This is one one of three requests from the DOJ regarding the release of records related to Epstein. Additional requests are still pending in New York. In a separate court, a judge denied a request from convicted Epstein associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, to view grand jury transcripts on Wednesday. U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmaye said there is no compelling necessity for Maxwell to access the materials. With pressure pouring in from President Donald Trumps supporters, the DOJ petitioned the court to unseal the files last week at Trumps request. The DOJ previously issued a memo saying there was no evidence of a client list and that Epstein was not murdered in his jail cell earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The memo drew backlash from Trump supporters and has stirred speculation about the presidents alleged relationship with Epstein. The Trump administration is facing pressure from Democrats and Republicans alike on the Epstein issue. To sidestep the issue, Trump and his administration are attempting to deflect. The post Judge denies release of Epsteins grand jury transcripts: Hands are tied appeared first on Salon.com. Aubrey Sparks, legal director for ACLU-WV, argues in support of their lawsuit against the state Wednesday in front of Kanawha County Circuit Judge Kenneth Ballard. The judge dismissed the lawsuit on procedural grounds. (Lori Kersey | West Virginia Watch) A Kanawha County judge has dismissed a legal action filed against the state Department of Health over its compliance with Gov. Patrick Morriseys executive order requiring it to issue religious exemptions to the states school-required vaccinations. Circuit Judge Kenneth Ballard dismissed the suit filed by plaintiffs represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia and Mountain State Justice on procedural grounds without addressing the merits of the case. He agreed with an attorney representing the state that the ACLU had failed to meet a requirement that it notify the state 30 days in advance of filing the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think Im jurisdictionally barred, Ballard said from the bench Wednesday. I think that the petitioners here failed to satisfy the requirements of West Virginia Code 55-17-3 which requires either a 30-day notice or a pleading of injunctive relief. The judge said the ACLUs complaint and arguments sought a writ of mandamus with little discussion of a request for injunctive relief. I dont think you appropriately sought this injunctive relief, I think you only interjected it at the end in an effort to get around this rule, Ballard said. The ACLU and Mountain State Justice filed the lawsuit May 23 against the state Department of Health on behalf of Marisa Jackson, of Kanawha County, and Dr. Joshua Hess, of Cabell County. Jackson and Hess are both parents of immunocompromised students. Hess is also a pediatric hematologist and oncologist practicing at Marshall Healths Cabell Huntington Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The petition asked the court to compel the states Department of Health and Bureau for Public Health to stop complying with the executive order requiring the state to allow religious exemptions for vaccine requirements. The state is one of only five in the country that has not allowed religious or philosophical exemptions to school required vaccines. Despite Morriseys executive order, the state Legislature earlier this year voted down Senate Bill 460, which would have established those religious exemptions in state law. The state Board of Education voted recently to direct county boards of education not to allow religious exemptions. In a separate legal action, a Raleigh County parent whose child was issued a religious exemption by the Department of Health is suing the state and county school boards for not accepting the exemption. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday in the Raleigh County lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of the state, attorney Holly Wilson argued that the case can be dismissed for myriad reasons, including that the plaintiffs did not offer pre-suit notice or meet a burden to show standing. But if this court decides that it wants to reach the merits or that it should reach the merits, petitioners lose, she said. They cant show a clear legal right. They cant show a legal duty and certainly they cant show a legal duty thats non-discretionary. The state and Morrisey argue that the states vaccine laws taken together with a 2023 Equal Protection for Religion Act require the state to allow religious exemptions. Aubrey Sparks, legal director for the ACLU, argued that the ACLU was not required to give the state 30 days notice because of an exception in the law when parties are asking for injunctive relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ballard dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning that the ACLU could re-file the lawsuit. Sparks told reporters after the hearing Wednesday its too soon to say whether the legal advocacy organization would do so. Its an open question about what our next steps are because I know that theres a lot of other lawsuits pending on this issue, Sparks said. We want to understand what happens in those but we do feel fundamentally that what the state is doing here is unlawful. But then more concerningly, what the state has argued in this case is so profoundly unconstitutional that we all should be concerned. What they functionally came into this courtroom and said is that an act of the governor can just unilaterally swipe off the table any law that he thinks could burden someones religious exercise, and thats just not supported and not permissible under our constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a post on the social media platform X Wednesday, Morrisey called the judges ruling the first skirmish of a longer fight. But the ultimate outcome whether resolved via litigation or a change in statute is not in doubt, he said. West Virginia is a radical outlier when it comes to onerous vaccine mandates one of only 5 states in the nation without a statutorily-based, religious exemption. We have an EO based upon our states religious freedom law that is very strong and must be given meaning. Sadly the state school board is ignoring this important law they are over reaching and need to be stopped! SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Then-Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters at her primary election watch party at the Wide Open Saloon in Sedalia on June 28, 2022. (Carl Payne for Colorado Newsline) A federal magistrate judge heard from attorneys for Tina Peters, the election-denying former Mesa County clerk, during a Tuesday habeas corpus hearing, but he did not yet reach a recommendation on her petition. Peters, a Republican, is serving a nine-year prison sentence for her role in a breach of Mesa Countys elections systems during a 2021 software update. She was convicted by a jury in August 2024 on four felony counts related to the security breach, which was part of an effort to demonstrate that the 2020 election was untrustworthy, even though there is no credible evidence to support that position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peters has appealed the conviction, and while the Colorado Court of Appeals reviews her appeal, her legal team filed a federal habeas corpus petition, which was the subject of Tuesdays hearing. The petition, which was filed in the U.S. District Court of Colorado, argues that Peters should be released on bond pending the appeal decision. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX One of the requirements for a habeas corpus petition to be granted is for the petitioner to have exhausted all other state-level legal avenues for resolving the case. The judge in Peters habeas corpus hearing, Scott T. Varholak, appeared to doubt that some of the five arguments in her petition met that requirement. Its not clear to me that that exhausts anything, Varholak said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following questions raised by Varholak, Peters lawyers agreed to drop four of the five parts of the petition and focus exclusively on an argument that Peters imprisonment violates her First Amendment right of free speech. The other parts included arguments that Peters imprisonment violates her 14th Amendment right of due process and the supremacy clause of the Constitution, which establishes that federal laws take precedence over potentially conflicting state laws. On the issue of exhaustion, I just want to remind the court that the burden is on Ms. Peters to establish, said Lisa Michaels, an attorney representing the Colorado attorney generals office. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser is named as a respondent in the case, along with Moses Andre Stancil, executive director of the Colorado Department of Corrections. Peters case has garnered national attention and President Donald Trump has called for the U.S. Department of Justice to take all necessary action to secure her release. Trump cannot pardon Peters, because her conviction involves state crimes. In touch with the DOJ The courtroom on Tuesday and an overflow room were both packed with Peters supporters, many of whom wore pins calling for her to be freed from prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her attorney, Peter Ticktin, confirmed in an interview with Newsline on Monday that he has been in contact with the Department of Justice. Ive basically been letting people at the DOJ understand what our situation is, or her situation is, and remember, the president of the United States basically called for her immediate release and has made it very clear that shes a political prisoner, Ticktin said. Peters was convicted by a Mesa County jury, and prosecuted by the office of a Republican district attorney. There has been no credible claim that the trial was politically compromised. Varholak brought up the atypical nature of the habeas corpus petition, in that it is not a petition calling for the overturn of a conviction or an unsuccessful appeal, but for Peters to be released on bail pending her appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have any cases, anywhere, ever, where a court has granted habeas on an appeal bond? Varholak said. Peters attorneys did not provide the precedent of a case in which a petition under such circumstances has been granted. They acknowledged the unusual nature of the request, but argued that Peters should be released on bail due to health and safety concerns. If there has ever been a case where someone should be released on bail, this is the case, Ticktin said in court. Shes living in hell, because someone is afraid of what she might say. Peters had asked to attend Tuesdays hearing remotely from prison in Pueblo, but her motion was denied on July 8. Peters attorneys said in the motion that she wanted to attend the hearing Tuesday because the issues being discussed affect her liberty interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ticktin said in the interview with Newsline that Peters, who is 70 years old, has fibromyalgia. The date of a subsequent hearing has yet to be scheduled, but Varholak gave the state attorney generals office and Peters attorneys several weeks to provide updated briefs and responses. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Washington A federal judge on Wednesday barred federal immigration authorities from immediately taking Kilmar Abrego Garcia into custody once he is released from criminal confinement in Tennessee and ordered the Trump administration to provide him 72 hours' notice if it plans to initiate proceedings to remove him to a country that is not his place of origin. The order from U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis was issued as a federal judge in Tennessee, who is presiding over Abrego Garcia's criminal case, ruled that the Salvadoran national should be released from the custody of federal law enforcement under conditions that will be set by a magistrate judge. The Tennessee judge, Waverly Crenshaw, denied the Justice Department's request to revoke an order allowing Abrego Garcia to be released while awaiting a criminal trial, writing that the government "failed to carry its burden of showing that no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure Abrego's appearance or the safety of others." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Abrego Garcia will not be released from criminal custody immediately. The magistrate judge overseeing his case granted a request from his lawyers, made last week, to hold off on issuing the order directing Abrego Garcia's release for 30 days. The judge said he will continue to remain in the custody of U.S. Marshals. "These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the government's lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmar's due process rights," Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, an attorney for Abrego Garcia, said in a statement. "A federal judge has now barred ICE from taking him back into custody and ordered that any future deportation attempt must come with advance notice. After the government unlawfully deported him once without warning, this legal protection is essential." Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, attacked Xinis for her decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest an MS-13 gang member, indicted by a grand jury for human trafficking, and subject to immigration arrest under federal law is LAWLESS AND INSANE," she said in a statement. Abrego Garcia was charged with two criminal counts of human smuggling last month and has pleaded not guilty. While the magistrate judge said he should be released from the custody of U.S. Marshals ahead of a trial, set to begin in January, the order prompted concerns that Abrego Garcia would then be swiftly detained by federal immigration authorities and deported. But Xinis' order limits the Trump administration's ability to swiftly remove him from the U.S. In addition to blocking Trump administration officials from taking Abrego Garcia into custody upon his release in Tennessee, Xinis ordered the Department of Homeland Security to return him to supervised release under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Baltimore field office. She said Abrego Garcia should be returned to Maryland, where he lives with his family. Under that supervision order, issued in 2019, Abrego Garcia had permission to live in Maryland, as well as authorization to work. He was required to check in with an immigration officer at the ICE office in Baltimore. Court filings indicate Abrego Garcia was in compliance with the ICE supervision order when he was deported to El Salvador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xinis said her relief allows the Trump administration to initiate immigration proceedings once Abrego Garcia returns to Maryland, but said those proceedings must begin in Baltimore, which was handling the earlier ICE supervision order. "Once Abrego Garcia is restored under the ICE Supervision Order out of the Baltimore Field Office, defendants may take whatever action is available to them under the law," Xinis said. Xinis, who sits on the federal district court in Maryland, wrote that she "must accord modest relief" that ensures Abrego Garcia is not subject to "re-deportation without due process" and ensures the fulfillment of her order earlier this year that required the Trump administration to return him to the U.S. from El Salvador. Administration officials, she wrote, "have done little to assure the court that absent intervention, Abrego Garcia's due process rights will be protected." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who visited Abrego Garcia when he was detained in El Salvador, cheered Xinis' decision. "It's clear this administration would rather deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a third country, with no chance at due process, than argue their case in court. This order will prevent that, and ensure that Kilmar Abrego Garcia is returned to Maryland following the U.S. District Court in Tennessee's determination that he does not pose any threat to the public," he said in a statement. Abrego Garcia, who entered the U.S. illegally in 2011, was detained by ICE in March and sent to a Salvadoran prison along with hundreds of other deportees despite a 2019 court order that barred him from being sent back to El Salvador due to a fear of persecution by gangs. The Trump administration acknowledged Abrego Garcia's deportation to El Salvador was an "administrative error," but he remained there for months despite Xinis ordering the government to facilitate his return until he was brought to Tennessee to face criminal charges. While the magistrate judge said he should be released pending trial, the prospect that Abrego Garcia would then swiftly be detained by the Department of Homeland Security for removal proceedings created a new tangle for the courts to unravel. He has remained in the custody of U.S. Marshals as the legal proceedings have continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego Garcia's lawyers asked the Tennessee court last week to put off his release from custody for 30 days if Crenshaw denied the Justice Department's bid to keep him in confinement while awaiting trial which the judge did Wednesday. Abrego Garcia's lawyers said in seeking the delay in his release last week that they had been advised by the government that "if the court denies the government's motion for revocation, the defendant would be transferred to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security ('DHS'), and DHS would begin removal proceedings." But earlier this month, Xinis heard testimony about how Abrego Garcia's deportation proceedings could be handled by ICE. An immigration official told the judge that if Abrego Garcia were to be released from pretrial detention in Tennessee, the agency had not determined where he would be sent. "There's been no decision made, as he is not in ICE custody," Thomas Giles, assistant director for ICE enforcement and removal operations, testified in federal court in Maryland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giles was in court after Xinis ordered the government to produce someone with firsthand knowledge of any third country other than El Salvador where Abrego Garcia could be deported to if he were released from criminal custody. If Abrego Garcia were to receive a notice of removal, up until his deportation, he would be able to express fear about going to a third country, a period of time that could range from "a day to a week," Giles said. In a hearing on June 26, Justice Department attorney Jonathan Guynn said that if the Salvadoran man were to be released, ICE would begin removal proceedings to a third country, which is one that is not the country of origin, instead of his native El Salvador. During the arguments earlier this month, Xinis said she was not willing to allow for an "unfettered release" of Abrego Garcia into ICE custody so he can be "spirited away" and removed from the U.S. before she rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're a court of laws and we don't operate on 'take my word for it,'" Xinis said. "From day one, you have taken the presumption of regularity and destroyed it in my view." Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Idaho murders victims' families speak out at Bryan Kohberger's sentencing hearing Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A judge has ordered State Senator Josh Kimbrell must sever his ties with a private aircraft charter company as part of a lawsuit brought by a former business partner. On Tuesday, a judge signed a consent order requiring Kimbrell, his wife, Liliya Shcherba Robertson Kimbrell, and his former banker, Thomas Blake Whitaker, to surrender all ownership interests and assets association with Exodus Aircraft LLC. The order includes surrendering an Embraer Jet, any bank accounts, company credit cards and business records to the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The order is the most recent development in a lawsuit filed against Kimbrell, a state senator representing parts of Spartanburg County and a candidate for governor, alleging he stole over $2 million from his business partner. Read more: Lawsuit claims SC state senator stole millions from Upstate company The lawsuit claims Kimbrell would take payments from customers and send them to a sham company created by Kimbrell and then transfer them to his personal bank accounts. Kimbrell has disputed the claims and in a video posted on social media, called them a politically motivated attack, an orchestrated attempt by entrenched forces in Columbia to distract us from the real work that needs to be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, the day before the consent order was signed, Kimbrell took to Facebook to comment I just love this verse: In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines. Stay tuned. SC politics is a cesspool, no matter how much I try to clean up the disgusting swamp it has become. Fight. Fight. Fight 7NEWS has reached out to Kimbrells office and his campaign office for comments on the recent order. We will update this story if he responds. You can read most recent order below: Josh-Kimbrell-Consent-OrderDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 federal judge overseeing Kilmar Abrego Garcias criminal case on smuggling charges has ordered his release from jail before trial, finding that prosecutors failed to show any evidence that his history or arguments against him warrant ongoing detention. That order arrived moments after another federal judge overseeing his wrongful deportation case blocked Donald Trumps administration from immediately arresting and deporting him after he is released from jail. But he wont be released just yet. Attorneys for Abrego Garcia asked a magistrate judge for a 30-day pause on any order for his release so they can evaluate options as they brace for immigration officers to arrest and remove him a second time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge granted that request Wednesday. Federal prosecutors have sought to bring his criminal case to trial as soon as possible, brushing up against demands from immigration officials who told the courts they plan to arrest and deport him before a trial even begins. Abrego Garcia has pleaded not guilty, and a trial is set to begin January 27, 2026. The judge overseeing Kilmar Abrego Garcias criminal case has ordered his release from pretrial detention, while another federal judge has blocked ICE from immediately deporting the Salvadoran immigrant who has been at the center of Trumps anti-immigration agenda (AP) Abrego Garcias high-profile wrongful removal case has been at the center of Trumps anti-immigration agenda, dovetailing with the administrations defiance of court orders and open hostility to the judges ruling against them. The Trump administration spent weeks insisting Abrego Garcia would never be allowed back into the country after admitting he was wrongfully deported to a Salvadoran prison in March. Yet he was abruptly flown back to the U.S. last month to face a criminal indictment in Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent court hearings in two different states, lawyers for the Department of Justice said they would only move forward with his criminal prosecution if he remains in custody while awaiting trial. On Wednesday, Tennessee District Judge Waverly D. Crenshaw said the government fails to show by a preponderance of the evidence let alone clear and convincing evidence that Abrego is such a danger to others or the community that such concerns cannot be mitigated by conditions of release. At bottom, the judge wrote, the Government fails to provide any evidence that there is something in Abregos history, or his exhibited characteristics, that warrants detention. Maryland District Judge Paula Xinis, meanwhile, has blocked Immigration and Customs Enforcement from immediately detaining Abrego Garcia once he is no longer in federal custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also ordered ICE to give him 72 hours notice if officials decide to deport Abrego Garcia to a so-called third country, or anywhere other than his native El Salvador. The administration has done little to assure the Court that absent intervention, Abrego Garcias due process rights will be protected, Xinis wrote. Defendants defiance and foot-dragging are, to be sure, the subject of a separate sanctions motion, she noted in her ruling. Defendants returned Abrego Garcia much the same way they had removed him in secret and with no advance notice, she added. Accordingly, the Court shares Plaintiffs ongoing concern that, absent meaningful safeguards, Defendants may once again remove Abrego Garcia from the United States without having restored him to the status quo ante and without due process. Kilmar Abrego Garcia fled El Salvador as a teenager in 2011. He was wrongfully deported in March, violating a court order, and sent to a brutal prison in his home country before he was abruptly returned to the US to face a criminal indictment (via REUTERS) Abrego Garcia was 16 years old when he fled gang violence in El Salvador in 2011 and illegally entered the U.S. Now 29, he was living and working in Maryland with his wife and child, both U.S. citizens, and two children from a previous marriage, when ICE agents arrested him in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was jailed inside El Salvadors notorious Terrorism Confinement Center for several weeks before he was moved to a smaller jail in the country. Government lawyers admitted in court documents that he was removed from the country due to a procedural error, and several federal judges and a unanimous Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to facilitate his return. A 2019 order from an immigration judge had blocked his removal to El Salvador over humanitarian concerns, and Supreme Court justices unanimously agreed the Trump administration had illegally defied that order. Still, the government spent weeks battling court orders while officials publicly said he would never step foot in the United States, characterizing him as a serial abuser and criminal gang member. Emails and text messages provided to members of Congress appear to show that administration officials and government lawyers were sympathetic to his wrongful removal and made efforts to get him out of El Salvador before the case made headlines, causing major headaches for the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A two-count indictment in Tennessee accuses Abrego Garcia of participating in a years-long conspiracy to illegally move undocumented immigrants from Texas to other parts of the country. He faces one count of conspiracy to transport aliens and one count of unlawful transportation of undocumented aliens. But in their request to keep him in jail before trial, federal prosecutors also claim he is a member of transnational gang MS-13 and personally participated in violent crime, including murder. Prosecutors also claim he abused women and trafficked children, firearms and narcotic, and there is also an ongoing investigation into solicitation of child pornography. Abrego Garcia is not facing any charges on those allegations, and Judge Crenshaw argues that the government failed to link those allegations to evidence that implicates Abrego Garcia. The judge also said that to buy the governments argument that he is a member of MS-13, he would have to make so many inferences from the Governments proffered evidence in its favor that such conclusion would border on fanciful. One of the Trump administrations highest-profile deportation targets, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, must be released from criminal custody in Tennessee and returned to Maryland and cannot be immediately redetained by immigration authorities, a pair of federal judges ruled Wednesday. The rulings are victories for Abrego, a Salvadoran man who entered the U.S. illegally and has lived in Maryland for about a decade. But they may be short-lived: Immigration enforcement officials signaled that hes likely to be re-detained when he arrives in Maryland. Earlier this year, Abrego was illegally deported to his home country despite an immigration court order barring him from being sent there. Then, after months of resisting court orders to return Abrego to the U.S., the administration brought him back to face newly unveiled charges of immigrant smuggling in Tennessee. Meanwhile, Trump officials suggested at times they would try to quickly deport him again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decisions from U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw Jr. in Tennessee and U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland issued in tandem on Wednesday are a climactic moment in Abregos four-month saga, which includes his abrupt deportation to a notorious prison in El Salvador in March and a Supreme Court order confirming that his expulsion from the U.S. was illegal. The Justice Department declined to comment on the rulings. Now, Abrego is likely to face a new round of deportation proceedings. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said that despite the court orders, Abrego will never walk Americas streets again. "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest someone who is subject to immigration arrest under federal law is insane, said the spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crenshaw, an Obama appointee, upheld a magistrate judges conclusion that Abrego should not be detained pending trial and must be released on bail. The magistrate will set Abregos release conditions. Crenshaw also said prosecutors had made a sufficient showing that Abregos alleged smuggling activity likely involved a minor victim. That is enough to entitle the government to seek pretrial detention, but Crenshaw concluded that detention wasnt appropriate because with proper release conditions Abrego is unlikely to flee or pose a danger to the community. Crenshaw said prosecutors claims that Abrego might flee because he could fear being picked up again by Immigration and Customs Enforcement amounted to pure speculation. It is not difficult to see why one might seek to avoid ICE after experiencing what Abrego did in recent months, the judge wrote, pointing to the Supreme Courts description of Abregos saga. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the irony of the Government making this argument when it (albeit a different department in the Executive Branch) created these circumstances is not lost on this Court. Nearly simultaneously with Crenshaws ruling, Xinis ordered the government to bring Abrego back to Maryland and provide 72 hours advance notice of any attempt to deport him again. Xinis, also an Obama appointee, said the modest order was necessary to fully restore Abrego to the position he was in before the Trump administration deported him in March as a result of what they described at the time as an administrative error. The requested relief is necessary not only to fulfill this Courts prior order, but also to provide the kind of effective relief to which a wrongfully removed alien is entitled upon return, Xinis wrote. Xinis did not flatly rule out Abrego being taken back into immigration custody at some juncture, but she said she would not permit him to be subject to a rapid-fire deportation that doesnt allow his attorneys to try to block it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later on Wednesday, the magistrate judge in the Tennessee case agreed to an unusual request from Abrego's defense to hold off his release for 30 days. His lawyers made that request before Xinis' ruling to ensure he would not be summarily redeported if released in the criminal case. In her ruling, Xinis also expressed doubt that lawyers and an ICE official who testified in the litigation were aware of the details of Abregos case. She dismissed as patently incredible claims by DOJ attorneys that no work had been done to figure out where Abrego could be deported given the 2019 immigration court order forbidding his deportation to El Salvador because he was likely to face a risk of violence there. That order remains in force. Crenshaw concluded that when Abrego was pulled over by Tennessee Highway Patrol in 2022 while driving an SUV carrying nine Latino men he was not fully truthful. But the judge said Abrego didnt try to flee and was generally cooperative with the officers. Crenshaw also said the governments case that Abrego posed a danger to the community was a far cry from what would be necessary to mandate him being locked up pending trial and that accepting prosecutors claim that hes an MS-13 gang member would border on fanciful. The judge also expressed skepticism about the accounts of some of the witnesses who are cooperating with prosecutors. Their stories evolved throughout the interview process, Crenshaw wrote. A federal judge on Wednesday ordered Maryland immigrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia to be released from the Tennessee prison where he has been held since his return from a wrongful deportation to El Salvador. At the same time, U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw stipulated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials are not permitted to arrest him as soon as he is released. Instead, if the Trump administration wishes to deport him to another country aside from El Salvador which they have expressed interest in doing they must give his attorneys three business days notice in order to prepare their defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The El Salvadoran native was swept up in President Donald Trumps deportation flights to the countrys brutal CECOT prison back in March, violating a court order specifically preventing him from being sent back to El Salvador out of fear of persecution. The Justice Department eventually admitted that the deportation was made in error and facilitated his return to the United States, but new federal smuggling charges were promptly lodged against him, resulting in his detention. Prosecutors claim that Abrego Garcia transported undocumented migrants across state lines. Crenshaw said that Abrego Garcias release is consistent with the Supreme Courts mandate that his case is handled as it would have been had he not been improperly sent to El Salvador. Abrego Garcia asserted that he was tortured in the countrys notorious CECOT prison, forced to kneel for nine hours per day and beaten if they fell from exhaustion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge said the 72-hour notice is necessary to prevent a repeat of Abrego Garcias unlawful deportation to El Salvador by way of third-country removal. Defendants have taken no concrete steps to ensure that any prospective third country would not summarily return Abrego Garcia to El Salvador in an end-run around the very withholding order that offers him uncontroverted protection, the judge said, noting that a third-party country had done just that in at least one other case. Crenshaw also expressed frustration with an ICE official who testified at a hearing in the case, Thomas Giles, the agencys assistant director of removal operations. Giles appeared ill-prepared to discuss Abrego Garcias immigration case, the judge wrote. He also pointed out the absurdity of the governments assertion during the hearings that they needed additional information from Abrego Garcia before they decided whether to send him to another country, and which one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defendants maintained this position despite having spent months investigating nearly every aspect of Abrego Garcias life. Now, counsels proffers seem patently incredible, Crenshaw wrote. Related... Clothing tech entrepreneur and CaaStle founder Christine Hunsicker is out on $1 million bail after she was charged on six counts of cheating customers out of more than $300 million over the past six years in a complex fraud scheme that inlcuded wire fraud, securities fraud, money laundering, making false statements to a financial institution, and aggravated identity theft. Most Read from Fast Company Hunsicker pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal court on Friday, after she turned herself in to authorities, and could face decades in prison if convicted, according to CNBC, who reported that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a related civil lawsuit. Heres what to know about the indictment. Why was Hunsicker indicted? Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, who was working with the FBI, announced on Friday that Hunsicker is charged with forging documents, fabricating audits, and making material misrepresentations about her companys financial condition in an alleged scheme to defraud investors in her clothing technology companies CaaStle Inc. and P180. The documents allege she continued to solicit millions of dollars in investments for both companies and persisted in her scheme even after law enforcement agents approached her about the fraud. The promise of pre-IPO technology companies can be fertile ground for fraudsters who play on investor euphoria, Clayton said in a statement. According to the statement, the fashion tech entrepreneur and founder of CaaStle, a clothing-as-a-service business that enabled clothing brands to rent inventory to consumers, promoted the company as a rapidly growing business valued at more than $1.4 billion, [although she] knew that CaaStle was in financial distress with limited cash and significant expenses. To raise the capital for CaaStles operations, she provided investors with falsified income statements, fake audited financial statements, fictitious bank records, and sham corporate documents that grossly overstated CaaStles operating profit, revenue, and available cash. Surprising details in Hunsickers indictment The indictment alleges, among other things, that Hunsicker provided two fabricated audits to investors and conducted internet searches for the terms fraud, created an audit firm fake, and JP morgan 4m records faked, an apparent reference to fraud charges related to JPMorgan Chases acquisition of the college financial aid startup called Frank, which resulted in the federal prosecution of its founder Charlie Javice. (Javice was convicted in March of defrauding JPMorgan Chase of $175 million by exaggerating her customer base tenfold, according to National Public Radio.) A magistrate judge paused Kilmar Abrego Garcia's release from federal custody Wednesday, shortly after a separate judge ruled that Abrego, who was mistakenly deported in March to El Salvador, should be released while he awaits trial on human smuggling charges. U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes in the Middle District of Tennessee ordered Abregos release from federal custody paused for 30 days or until further court order. Abrego shall therefore remain in the custody of the United States Marshal pending further order, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pause, which both parties asked for, will allow the government the opportunity to appeal and Abregos legal team the chance to seek further relief. It followed back-to-back rulings from U.S. District Judges Waverly Crenshaw in Nashville, Tennessee, and Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland that ordered Abrego's release and blocked his detention by immigration authorities in Tennessee. Crenshaw denied the Trump administrations motion to block Abregos release, writing that the government fails to provide any evidence that there is something in Abregos history, or his exhibited characteristics, that warrants detention. The pieces of evidence the Government cites to, taken alone or together, warrant a finding that Abrego is, at best, a low risk of nonappearance, Crenshaw wrote. The Court agrees with Abrego that the nature of the crimes he is accused of do not, on their own, fall within the categories of crimes Congress specifically enumerated as warranting a presumption of detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minutes after Crenshaws order, Xinis issued an order blocking the government from taking Abrego into immigration custody in Tennessee. At recent hearings for Abrego's case, Xinis had expressed concern that he would be deported immediately if he were released from federal custody. "The Court shares Plaintiffs ongoing concern that, absent meaningful safeguards, Defendants may once again remove Abrego Garcia from the United States without having restored him to the status quo ante and without due process," Xinis wrote in Wednesday's order. She also ruled that the government must restore Abrego to Immigration and Customs Enforcement supervision in Baltimore and that if third-country removal proceedings are initiated, the government must give Abrego and his counsel 72 "business hours" notice of the intended third country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of Abrego's attorneys, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, hailed Crenshaw and Xinis' rulings and said that the government has been acting against the law, including when it deported Abrego. "These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the governments lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmars due process rights, Sandoval-Moshenberg said. Abregos deportation case has generated national headlines for months amid the Trump administrations broader push to reshape immigration policy in the United States. Abrego, 29, was deported to a notorious mega-prison in El Salvador in March, in what the government called an "administrative error." His deportation was in direct violation of an order a judge issued in 2019 to prevent his deportation to El Salvador, where he was born and claimed to have been in danger of gang violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego was brought back to the United States last month after months of legal back-and-forth between his defense and the federal government. Upon his return, he was immediately charged with two federal felonies in U.S. District Court in Nashville: conspiracy to unlawfully transport illegal aliens for financial gain and unlawful transportation of illegal aliens for financial gain. Abrego has pleaded not guilty to both charges. For months, the Trump administration has repeatedly accused Abrego of being a violent member of an international crime gang, MS-13, which Abregos attorneys and family members have denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crenshaw was not convinced by the administrations assertion. Based on the record before it, for the Court to find that Abrego is member of or in affiliation with MS-13, it would have to make so many inferences from the Governments proffered evidence in its favor that such conclusion would border on fanciful," he said. Abregos attorneys asked Crenshaw on Tuesday to order members of the Trump administration to stop commenting on the case. They pointed to a news conference in Nashville last week at which Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem referred to Abrego as a "horrible human being." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He has a lifetime history of trafficking individuals and of taking advantage of minors, soliciting pornography from them, nude photos of them, abusing his wife, abusing other illegals, aliens that were in this country, women that were under his care while he was trafficking them," Noem said. "He's a horrible human being and a monster, and he should never be released free." On Wednesday, Crenshaw wrote that the Trump administration "fails to show by a preponderance of the evidence let alone clear and convincing evidence that Abrego is such a danger to others or the community that such concerns cannot be mitigated by conditions of release." In a statement after the rulings Wednesday, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin again referred to Abrego as a member of MS-13. The facts remain, this MS-13 gang member, human trafficker and illegal alien will never walk Americas streets again. The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they cant arrest an MS-13 gang member, indicted by a grand jury for human trafficking, and subject to immigration arrest under federal law, is LAWLESS AND INSANE," she said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kilmar Abrego Garcia will remain in criminal custody for the time being. It will be a cold day in hell before this criminal illegal alien is back on American streets," she said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A federal judge reinstated two Democratic appointees at the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) on Tuesday whom President Trump purported to fire. Its the latest decision reversing Trumps firings of independent agency leaders across the federal bureaucracy. U.S. District Judge Amir Ali warned in his 27-page ruling that accepting the administrations position would mean that Trump could also fire the Federal Reserve chair without cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The overlap in powers wielded by the NCUA Board and the Federal Reserve, and their common role as financial regulators, supports the conclusion that Congress can insulate NCUA Board members from at-will removal, Ali wrote. Ali did not reference Trumps recent flirtations with firing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. But the Biden-appointed judge repeatedly suggested the government all but concedes the point that theyd equally be able to fire Powell, too. The Justice Department declined to comment. The Hill has reached out to Harper and Otsukas legal team for comment. Created in 1970, the NCUA is tasked with regulating and insuring credit unions. It plays a similar role to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, which insures banks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NCUA board members once served at the pleasure of the president. But within a few years, Congress removed that language and provided they should instead serve fixed, six-year terms, with no more than two of the three members coming from the same political party. In April, Trump purported to fire Todd Harper and Tanya Otsuka, the two Democrats on NCUAs board, without explanation. Harper and Otsuka soon sued. The administration in court did not purport to have cause, but it argued Trump has absolute authority to remove the duo at will and the courts had no authority to order their reinstatement. The NCUA is one of a handful of agencies where Trump has attempted to fire top leadership despite their traditional independence from the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration has a pending request with the Supreme Court to greenlight Trumps firings at the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It comes after the justices in May sided with the administration in its effort to fire officials at the National Labor Relations Board and Merit Systems Protection Board. Other battles could soon reach the justices. On Monday, a panel on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit temporarily halted a lower judges order reinstating a fired member at the Federal Trade Commission. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Trump administration just faced another legal setback in its effort to unseal grand jury transcripts related to Jeffrey Epstein, as a federal judge in Florida on Wednesday rejected the governments bid to unseal Epstein-related transcripts from investigations in that state. The rejection follows Tuesdays orders from federal judges in New York that told the Justice Department its motions to unseal grand jury transcripts related to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell in that state were inadequate. The New York judges gave the DOJ a week to try again and said Maxwell, an Epstein representative and victims can also weigh in by Aug. 5. Whatever information comes out of this grand jury litigation will necessarily be more limited than the full scope of information that exists about Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flurry of judicial activity comes amid unusual political backlash that President Donald Trump is attempting to fend off, as even some supporters have questioned his administrations commitment to releasing the full scope of information related to Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while being held on sex trafficking charges. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 of trafficking-related crimes and is appealing her convictions to the Supreme Court. The Justice Department formally opposed her pending high court petition last week, and this week the DOJ announced it wants to meet with Maxwell, whom the House Oversight Committee separately has subpoenaed for a deposition in prison on Aug. 11. She currently has a release date in 2037. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said this week that hes sending the House home early for the summer to avoid voting on releasing Epstein-related information. Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the DOJ told Trump in May that his name was in the Epstein files. NBC News and MSNBC have not confirmed the Journal report, which cited senior administration officials and noted that being mentioned in the Epstein-related records isnt a sign of wrongdoing. Separately, Trump filed a defamation lawsuit last week over an earlier Journal story related to him and Epstein. The Journal quotes Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung as saying in response to the latest report, This is another fake news story, just like the previous story by The Wall Street Journal. In the Florida grand jury litigation, U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg said in an order that her hands are tied when it comes to unsealing a point that she said the government conceded in the litigation. The Obama-appointed judge said the government couldnt justify the disclosure based on the federal criminal procedural rules and precedent in the federal circuit covering Florida. She noted that different precedent controls in the federal circuit covering New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, while the Florida denial doesnt mean the New York transcripts will necessarily stay sealed, whether they do depends on additional forthcoming filings and litigation there. Subscribe to the Deadline: Legal Newsletter for expert analysis on the top legal stories of the week, including updates from the Supreme Court and developments in the Trump administrations legal cases. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein. Last week, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche asked judges in Florida and New York to release transcripts from grand jury proceedings that resulted in indictments against Epstein and Maxwell, saying, Transparency to the American public is of the utmost importance to this Administration. However, appeals from both the Trump administration and Maxwell were denied Wednesday by two separate judges. The evidence the Trump administration hoped to unseal, however, likely wouldnt reveal much, according to experts, who say prosecutors try to provide just enough to get charges not introduce an entire investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Judge Robin L. Rosenberg in West Palm Beach wrote in her ruling that the request to release the documents related to an investigation into Epstein from 2005 to 2007 did not meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under federal law that could make them public. Grand jury proceedings are typically done in secret and kept from public view. Meanwhile, New York federal Judge Paul A. Engelmayer wrote in a filing that Maxwell, who requested access to grand jury transcripts in her case, has not shown, or attempted to show, that the grand jury materials in her case are apt to reveal any deficiency in the proceedings leading to her indictment. Federal judges in New York and Florida on Wednesday rejected requests to unseal grand jury transcripts related to investigations into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. (US District Court for the Southern District of New York) Engelmayer wrote there was no compelling necessity for Maxwell to review her grand jury transcripts, which the Trump Administration has also requested to unseal. The Court will review these transcripts expeditiously. In the event the Court determines it would benefit from Maxwells commentary as to discrete aspect of these transcripts, the Court stands ready to make that excerpt, or a synopsis thereof, available to her counsel to facilitate counsels briefing, Engelmayer wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Engelmayer continued: But there is no justification for Maxwell to obtain the extraordinary relief of plenary access to the grand jury transcripts in her case. Both rejections come about a week after the Justice Department asked the judges to release the records, likely in a move to appease the MAGA base of President Donald Trump, many of whom believe the government has not been transparent with their investigation into Epstein. While Trump ran on the promise that more information would be released about Epstein and his associates, he has since reversed course, with Attorney General Pam Bondi releasing a joint memo with the FBI indicating there would be no more information shared about the financiers conviction. In 2008, Epstein made a deal with federal prosecutors in Florida that would let him avoid more serious federal charges and instead plead guilty to state charges of procuring a person under 18 for prostitution and solicitation of prostitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He later died by suicide in Manhattan federal court while awaiting trial. Maxwell was later convicted at trial and sentenced to 20 years in prison. After news of the rejection was made public Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters she would let the president speak to whether he wants to see an appeal. With reporting from the Associated Press. New Release: Farm, merge, grow and expand your land in this new puzzle game! New Release: Farm, merge, grow and expand your land in this new puzzle game! MARYLAND (DC News Now) After months of back-and-forth in federal court, two judges ruled Wednesday that the government must release Kilmar Abrego Garcia, permitting the Maryland husband and father to return home. A major victory for Abrego Garcias team, the courts in Tennessee and Maryland rejected the governments efforts to further detain him after his unlawful deportation. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland ordered that the Trump administration may not take Abrego Garcia into custody after his release from a Tennessee jail including ICE detention. Instead, the court mandated his return to supervised release and required the government to give three days written notice before any attempt to deport him to a third country, immigration organization CASA explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Kilmar Abrego Garcias future uncertain ahead of possible release in Tennessee At the same time, U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw Jr. in Nashville denied the governments motion to revoke Abrego Garcias release order, finding prosecutors failed to prove he posed a flight risk or danger to the community. Crenshaw acknowledged the harm caused by his initial deportation to El Salvador in March. It is not difficult to see why one might seek to avoid ICE after experiencing what Abrego did, the judge stated. These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the governments lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmars due process rights, said Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, one of Abrego Garcias attorneys, according to CASA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) said he was glad to see Judge Xiniss ruling. In a statement, he said, in part, Its clear this Administration would rather deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a third country, with no chance at due process, than argue their case in court. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. The Trump administration must release Kilmar Abrego Garcia on his criminal charges in Tennessee in 30 days, and immigration authorities must allow him to return to Maryland on supervision without taking him into custody, three judges separately ruled Wednesday. The rulings allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to restart Abrego Garcias immigration proceedings in Baltimore and try to detain him once he is back, but ICE must also provide 72 hours notice before removing him to a country where he has no ties. It marks a victory for Abrego Garcias lawyers in their quest to limit the administration from again swiftly deporting the man, who was mistakenly removed to El Salvador in March and spent weeks in a notorious megaprison. He was later returned to Tennessee to face two human smuggling felonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego Garcias release from a Tennessee jail on those charges wont be immediate. Later Wednesday, a magistrate judge agreed to Abrego Garcias request to delay his release by 30 days to first figure out next steps. The administration did not oppose the delay and has long insisted Abrego Garcia will never be free while on American soil. The two earlier rulings landed nearly simultaneously Wednesday afternoon. U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw, who oversees the criminal proceedings in Tennessee, said the government could not justify detaining Abrego Garcia before trying him on charges he smuggled migrants across the country on dozens of trips. The trial is set to begin Jan. 27. The Government has failed to show on appeal that this case is one of the carefully limited exception[s] where detention pending trial is justified, entitling Abrego to his liberty in the meantime, Crenshaw wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Abrego Garcia is released, the Justice Department had long said he would be immediately transferred to immigration custody. He could then be deported in a matter of hours, but no final decision would be made until the transfer occurs, an ICE official testified. U.S. District Paula Xinis, who has been overseeing Abrego Garcias months-long civil lawsuit in Maryland, agreed to limit what ICE can do upon his release. The administration contended Xinis had no authority to intervene. Defendants have done little to assure the Court that absent intervention, Abrego Garcias due process rights will be protected, Xinis wrote. Both Crenshaw and Xinis were appointed by former President Obama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After his return to Maryland on supervision, Abrego Garcia will remain protected from deportation to El Salvador under a 2019 immigration court ruling. But Xiniss order now also prevents his deportation to any other country without at least 72 hours notice, as requested by his lawyers. The judge acknowledged ICE may be able to lift the 2019 ruling or deport him to another country after providing the notice. But Xinis said Abrego Garcia was entitled to be returned to the status quo he was living in before his March arrest that thrust him into the national spotlight. So long as such actions are taken within the bounds of the Constitution and applicable statutes, this Court will have nothing further to say, she wrote. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), who represents the area where Abrego Garcia lived after entering the country illegally, called the decisions a step in the right direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You never know with the Trump administration, but it should be unlikely that they would try and deport somebody again in violation of a court order, Ivey told The Hill. Rebecca Beitsch contributed. Updated at 4:21 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 New Jersey corrections officer who urged police to Just arrest me bro after killing his girlfriend and her friend in 2021 was sentenced to 50 years in a state prison. Hudson County corrections officer John P. Menendez copped to first-degree aggravated manslaughter after shooting 40-year-old victims Anna Shpilberg and Luiza Shinkarevskaya. The Essex County Prosecutors Office told the Daily News Menendez received 25 years for each victim and said those sentences will run consecutively. Hes required to serve 85% of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Menendez, 27, allegedly became upset when Shpilberg, whom he had been dating, ignored his calls while vacationing with Shinkarevskaya. Their bodies were found in different parts of Newark in February 2021 shortly after Menendez picked both women up at Newark Liberty International airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I killed both of them. Just arrest me, bro, Menendez reportedly said when he surrendered to an officer on patrol. NJ.Com said he committed the killings with his service weapon, The victims both moved to the U.S. from Ukraine and lived in Brooklyn before relocating to New Jersey, according to NJ.com. With News Wire Services A 21st-century Rosa Parks moment - thats the way William McNeil Jr.s attorneys described his case during a Wednesday news conference. It was the hit seen millions of times across the world as a Jacksonville Sheriffs officer struck 22-year-old McNeil in the face during a February traffic stop. I was really just scared, McNeil said Wednesday. McNeil Jr. spoke publicly for the first time since releasing cell phone video of his arrest over the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was joined by his family, the President of Livingstone College, where he is a student, and his team of nationally-renowned civil rights attorneys, Benjamin Crump and Harry Daniels. RELATED: Man in viral Jacksonville traffic stop video hires high-profile attorneys This is about driving while Black, McNeils attorney Ben Crump said. Crump compared McNeils demeanor during the arrest to that of Rosa Parks, when she was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat in 1955. What he exhibited was 21st century Rosa Parks moment, where an African American had the audacity to say I deserve equal justice under the law, I deserve to be treated like a human being with all the respect that a human being is entitled to, Crump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Attorneys for Jacksonville man punched during traffic stop are no strangers to notable cases The officer seen hitting McNeil, Donald Bowers, has been cleared of criminal wrongdoing by the State Attorneys Office, but was stripped of his policing authority pending the result of an internal investigation on Monday. That same day, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters released body cam video of McNeils arrest, which shows he failed to comply with multiple commands from officers to step out of his car and had a knife on his floorboard. RELATED: First hit to mans face by JSO officer omitted in all police reports related to controversial arrest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waters declined to pass judgment on the use of physical force by the officers until the internal investigation is completed. Im not excusing that administratively. There are things we definitely need to look at, but the context of this video should tell you everything you need to know, Waters said Monday. At the same time McNeils team spoke Wednesday morning, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis chimed in on the controversy during a press conference he was holding across town. RELATED:Jacksonville Sheriff answers community questions on viral traffic stop at town hall meeting When asked about his thoughts on the situation, DeSantis said he has full confidence in Waters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If theres anything that these guys are not living up to the standard, hes gonna hold them accountable, but it seems to me like this is trying to create a narrative, DeSantis said. But McNeils attorneys argue the cell phone video speaks for itself and brings to light details about the arrest that might have never been known, as no official reports made any mention of the initial strike to McNeils face. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] You have to look at that video and say This does not reflect our training, our policies or our values and you need to terminate that officer immediately, Crump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McNeil pleaded guilty to driving with a suspended license and resisting without violence one day after his arrest. His attorneys argue the judge should not have allowed him to accept the deal, as they claim he was suffering from a concussion at the time due to the injuries he sustained during the arrest. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] 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 Maryland State Board of Elections office in Annapolis. (File photo by Danielle E. Gaines/Maryland Matters.) Maryland elections officials face the potential of a federal investigation and a separate federal lawsuit led by local, state, and national Republicans over allegations of improperly maintained voter rolls. In two letters sent four days apart, the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division and lawyers representing the state and national Republican Party and two party officials in Maryland raised concerns about efforts to purge duplicate and ineligible voters including those who are deceased, incarcerated or undocumented immigrants. Both letters, obtained by Maryland Matters, cite federal election law and a 2023 state audit that raised questions about the accuracy of state voter rolls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Elections Administrator Jared DeMarinis acknowledged his agency received both letters in the last week. Were reviewing the DOJ letter, DeMarinis said in an interview. We are acknowledging that like the general public information is available under the public information act, and we will respond accordingly. The July 14 Justice Department letter requested voter registration data from November 2022 to November 2024. Federal attorneys also asked the state to provide the number of voters identified as ineligible to vote during that period because they were a non-citizen adjudicated incompetent or had a felony conviction. Federal attorneys set a 14-day deadline for state officials to provide the information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Justice Department spokesperson, in an email, declined to comment. The letter comes as a growing number of election boards around the nation are facing scrutiny from a federal government led by a chief executive who has widely claimed he was the victim of extensive voter fraud. Maryland Election Administrator Jared DeMarinis . (File photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters.) It heightens concerns about federalism and the roles between federal and state governments involved in election administration, DeMarinis said. Separate federal lawsuit threatened In a separate but parallel letter, attorneys representing a group of local, state, and national Republicans alleged implausibly high voter registration percentages, both statewide and in some individual counties. The letter was sent to state and local elections officials four days after the Justice Department request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a 12-page notice of intent letter, attorneys with the firm Consovoy McCarthy said they represent the Republican National Committee and the Maryland Republican Party. Maryland is failing to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter rolls, in clear violation of federal law, Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley said in a statement. Citizens deserve to know their vote isnt being canceled out by duplicate or ineligible voters. Were demanding action because clean voter rolls are essential to protecting free and fair elections in Maryland and across the country. The statement also referenced a 2023 report from the Office of Legislative Audits that raised questions about how the state maintains its voter rolls. That report raised concerns that potentially deceased residents remain on state voter rolls. State elections officials said auditors exaggerated those claims. Maryland was sued last year by two organizations claiming widespread problems with the states voter registration system, but a U.S. District Court judge in Baltimore dismissed the case for lack of standing by the groups bringing the suit. citing the groups lack of standing to file a lawsuit. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Maryland Republican Party spokesperson referred all questions about the letter to Nicolee Ambrose, a Republican National Committeewoman and 2022 Republican congressional candidate who is also represented by the law firm, according to the letter. Ambrose did not respond to a request for comment, but she did comment about the letter in a social media post. The Maryland State Board of Elections has run out of excuses for violating federal law, she wrote on Facebook. It is imperative they do their job and clean up Marylands egregiously out-of-date and inflated voter rolls. The firm also said it represents Reardon Sullivan, whom it described as chair of Committee to Control MoCo Spending, a ballot issue committee. He is also chair of the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee. Sullivan, in an email, said ensuring updated and accurate voter rolls is a non-partisan issue that affects every Maryland voter. Issues with inaccurate voter rolls directly (affects) our committees efforts to collect valid signatures for our ballot petition, he wrote. Data cited in the GOP letter alleges there are more voters than adults who are eligible to vote in Maryland, which Sullivan said is obviously impossible. Maryland must take this issue seriously and remove the names of ineligible voters from the official lists prior to the 2026 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allegations in the letter include state elections officials failing to maintain accurate voter registration rolls and counties with implausibly high voter registration rates. It said its analysis of state records identified two counties Howard and Montgomery as having more active registered voters than eligible adult citizens between 2019 and 2023. Both Republicans on the five-member state board of elections have ties to those counties: Diane Butler is a former member of the Howard County Board of Elections and Jim Shalleck, vice chair of the panel, served six years as president of the Montgomery County Board of Elections. The law firms analysis compared state voter registration totals and annual Census data estimates. This evidence shows that your office and officials in these counties are not conducting appropriate list maintenance to ensure that the voter registration roll is accurate and current, as required by federal law, the firm wrote in its letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia-based Consovoy McCarthy is known for its conservative pedigree, representing President Donald Trump in cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and arguing the case that ended the practice of race-based college admissions. Two of its attorneys clerked for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. The firm said its clients will bring a lawsuit against the state and local boards if you fail to take specific actions to correct these violations within 90 days. Weve received it, and it is under review, DeMarinis said when asked about the Consovoy McCarthy letter. David Naimon, president of the Montgomery County Board of Elections, said the local agency is reviewing the letter and declined further comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials in Howard County did not respond to a request for comment. Sowing doubt and conspiracy theories Maryland is one of a growing number of states where election officials have received letters from the Justice Department. Some see the effort as a weaponization of federal law enforcement for political reasons. Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee Vice Chair Cheryl C. Kagan (D-Montgomery). (File photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters.) Theyre just trying to come into a state that is currently dominated by Democratic leaders and sow doubt and imply theres a problem where none exists, said Senate Education, Energy and the Environment Committee Vice Chair Sen. Cheryl C. Kagan (D-Montgomery), who devotes much of her legislative policy focus to elections law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont forget that next year is an election year in Maryland, she said. So, if Republicans, whether they are in the administration or in the political party, are looking to plant conspiracy theories or doubt, this is the right time to do it. Federal laws restrict the federal governments ability to centralize information on Americans, said David Becker, executive director of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation & Research. Even if states provide voter registration information to the public, they often redact sensitive information. In Orange County, California, the DOJ sued local election officials in June, seeking unredacted voter registration information, such as Social Security numbers and drivers licenses, as part of an investigation into noncitizen voting. More than 350 election officials from some 33 states participated in a conference call about federal actions Monday hosted by Becker, who was previously an attorney in the DOJ Voting Rights Section during the Clinton and George W. Bush administrations. He said the interest in the call shows the level of uncertainty and anxiety over the current federal imposition on election administrators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ seems dead set on acquiring personal information on voters, including drivers license numbers, Social Security numbers and dates of birth records that are highly protected under federal law and under state law and which state election officials are sworn to protect, Becker told Stateline. Maryland joins growing list of states At least nine states have received requests for information over the past three months, according to letters from the DOJ obtained by Stateline. Some states also received emails from a DOJ official last week asking for meetings to discuss information-sharing agreements. When asked if Maryland had received any other letter or demands from the Department of Justice, DeMarinis said: No. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DeMarinis said the most recent letters will have little effect on how state elections are administered in the state. My charge and my mission is to make sure Marylands elections are safe, secure and transparent, DeMarinis said. Im not going to be deterred from that mission. The departments focus on elections comes after President Donald Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi in March to seek information about suspected election crimes from state election officials and empowered her to withhold grants and other funds from uncooperative states. For years, Trump advanced false claims about elections, including the idea that the 2020 election that he lost was stolen. Now back in power, his administration is taking a new level of interest in how states and even local authorities administer elections. In March, Trump issued an executive order attempting to impose several election policies, including proof of citizenship requirements, reviews of state voter registration lists and requiring all mail in ballots be received by Election Day. That executive order is the subject of an ongoing court challenge. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman contributed to this report. This story was updated on Thursday, July 24, to correct a misstatement by Reardon Sullivan on his status as Montgomery County Republican Central Committee chair. Turkiye has reportedly submitted a draft proposal to Iraq aimed at renewing and broadening their existing energy agreement, according to a Reuters report. The proposal encompasses cooperation in sectors such as oil, gas, petrochemicals and electricity. This development follows Ankara's announcement of the termination of the long-standing Kirkuk-Ceyhan oil pipeline agreement. An official from the Iraqi Oil Ministry has indicated that the ministry is currently assessing the Turkish proposal. The official was quoted by the news agency as saying, The Ministry of Oil is in the process of reviewing the draft agreement sent by the Turkish side and negotiating with them regarding it to reach a formula that serves the interests of Iraq and Turkey. The 1.6 million barrels per day Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline has been out of operation since 2023. An arbitration court ordered Turkiye to pay $1.5bn (Tl60.62bn) in damages for unauthorised Iraqi exports between 2014 and 2018, a ruling which Turkiye is contesting. Despite the pipeline's current inactivity, a senior Turkish official expressed Turkiye's desire to restore the oil conduit. Turkiye's decision to end the existing Turkiye-Iraq crude oil pipeline agreement from 27 July 2026 was published in its Official Gazette. The termination includes all related protocols and memorandums dating back to the 1970s. Efforts to resume oil flows through the pipeline have been ongoing. Ankara announced in late 2023 that the pipeline was ready to transport Iraqi oil, but negotiations involving Baghdad, the Kurdistan Regional Government and independent oil producers have yet to yield an agreement. The Turkish official highlighted the pipeline's potential as a highly active and strategic pipeline for the region, citing significant Turkish investment in its maintenance and its role in regional projects such as the Development Road. A new and vibrant phase for the Iraq-Turkey pipeline will benefit both countries and the region as a whole, the official remarked, hinting at the broader implications of the proposed agreement. The Development Road initiative, which Turkiye sees as an opportunity to extend the pipeline further south, involves a high-speed road and rail link from Basrah in Iraq's to the Turkish border and eventually to Europe. Baghdad had already allocated initial funding for the project in 2023. "Turkiye offers draft to renew and expand energy collaboration with Iraq" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The first Black woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court is set to visit Charlotte to discuss her memoir, Lovely One, in September. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will be in conversation with Harvey B. Gantt, Charlottes first Black mayor and a civil rights trailblazer. ALSO READ >> NAACP National Convention 2025: Civil rights, AI, and the case for unity The event will take place on Sept. 4 at the recently renovated Carolina Theatre, a historic venue that reopened in March 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tickets for the event start at $25, and it is open to all ages. Justice Jackson will share stories from her memoir, reflecting on her journey from a family shaped by the legacy of segregation to her historic confirmation, according to a release from the Gantt Center. Friends of the Gantt subscribers will have early access to purchase tickets on July 24, with general public sales starting on July 25. VIDEO: Juneteenth celebration honors historically Black corridor in Charlotte VERMILLION COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) A man accused of shooting at two Vermillion County Sheriffs Deputies in 2023, injuring one of them, was found guilty on all charges. As we previously reported, an officer in Danville, Illinois, attempted to pull over a car in February 2023, being driven by Justin Henry of Urbana, Illinois. Instead, they said that Henry took off and a chase ensued. As officers closed in around Dana, Indiana, court testimony showed Henry shot Vermillion County Sheriffs Deputy Joey Wilson and shot at Deputy Keith Warner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court Wednesday morning, Special Judge Hunter Reece found Justin Henry guilty on all four counts, including two counts of attempted murder, possession of methamphetamine, resisting law enforcement, and the habitual offender enhancement. The bench trial continued Wednesday morning with the state calling back lead investigator, Indiana State Police Sgt. Michael Featherling to the stand. Featherling walked the court through DNA and fingerprint evidence. He stated that the analysis linked Justin Henry to the gun used the night Vermillion County deputy Joey Wilson was shot. RELATED: He was trying to kill me stated deputy in court today Deputy Prosecutor Mark Christoff questioned Rafael Perez, a forensic firearms expert with the Indiana State Police. Perez gave testimony on how the weapon worked and what actions wouldve been required in order for Henry to fire it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state also called a former Fountain County deputy, who was also a former Army Ranger, to the stand. He described the scene that night as a rampage and described Henry as a threat. Justin Henry was given the opportunity to testify, but he chose not to do so. Vermillion County Prosecutor Bruce Aukerman referenced the principle, Never point a gun at anything youre not willing to destroy. During closing arguments, Aukerman emphasized Henrys intent, saying, He pointed a gun at things he wanted to destroy, people he wanted to kill. The defense argued that Henry couldnt see the deputies due to bright patrol lights and was firing at the vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Hunter Reece returned his verdict just before 11 a.m. Wednesday. Reece found Henry guilty on all charges. Henrys bail was revoked, and sentencing was set for August 15 at 2 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 MyWabashValley.com. TOPEKA (KSNT) Kansas universities are dropping diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies and support for LGBTQ+ students this week following action by the states lawmakers. Kansas State University and the University of Kansas are rolling back policies this month related to support for LGBTQ+ individuals and DEI policies. This comes after President Donald Trump began moving to end affirmative action and DEI policies at the federal level in early 2025. K-State announced on July 23 that it will be bringing operations at its Spectrum Center to an end by July 31. K-State established its Spectrum Center in 2010 as a welcoming and affirming space at the university meant to provide resources and support to people with differing gender identities and sexualities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a tragedy: Two found dead in Kansas home after child abducted Vice President for Academic Success and Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Thomas Lane, said the center has served as a place for LGBTQ+ students, staff, faculty and others to gather in a supportive space. Lane said the center has significantly contributed to the universitys national recognition as a place that values LGBTQ+ individuals. Though the centers stand-alone physical space may no longer be in operation, the Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs remains deeply committed to supporting all our students. Staff from across the division will continue working closely with student organization leaders and members, faculty, staff and alumni supporters in our efforts to ensure that every student feels seen, supported and valued at K-State. Our work remains rooted in the foundational belief that all students belong and matter. They are jumping for their lives: Kansas pigs leap to freedom, find new homes Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KU issued a letter on July 22 signed by several university heads regarding its compliance with a new directive from the Kansas Board of Regents. KU reported the board recently issued a new directive to state universities requiring them to take the following actions by July 31, 2025: Eliminate any positions that relate to diversity, equity and inclusion; Eliminate any mandates, policies, programs, preferences and activities relating to diversity, equity and inclusion; Eliminate any training requirements in diversity, equity and inclusion for any employee; Cancel any state grants or contracts relating to diversity, equity and inclusion; and Remove gender identifying pronouns or gender ideology from email signature blocks on state employees email accounts and any other form of communication. KU said it has addressed all of the above items with the exception of removing gender identifying pronouns from email signature blocks belonging to state employees. The university reported that both university employees and student employees are required to follow this directive by the July 31 deadline. Kansas families lose after-school help due to federal funding cuts Each Jayhawk contributes to the community of learning and growth that is KU. Our community is founded on the respect and support we each provide to others. If you know of a student, staff, or faculty member who needs assistance as a result of this new requirement, please consider submitting a Support and Care referral . At KU, we elevate the university and each other through our mission of education, research and service. Thank you for your dedication to the university and the people we serve. Joint letter excerpt from Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, Chief Academic Officer/Provost & Executive Vice Chancellor for KU-Lawrence & Edwards Barbara A. Bichelmeyer and Chief Health Sciences Officer & Executive Vice Chancellor for KU Medical Center Steve Stites. Matt Keith with the Kansas Board of Regents told 27 News the Kansas Legislature adopted a proviso in the most recent budget bill which contained requirements regarding DEI and state agencies. Keith provided a guidance document issued by the board to state universities on June 18, 2025 which can be found below: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEI Guidance for State Universities in Kansas 6.18.2025 by Matthew Self on Scribd Speeding driver late for church caught going 111 mph in Douglas County For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach said the Johnson County Commission should not hold an election to renew a public safety sales tax. He warned that the commission exceeded its authority in putting the tax on the November 2025 ballot. Overland Park police receive $500K grant from QuikTrip for Fire Training Center Imposing new taxes on the people of Kansas is something that can be done only under tightly limited situations and as specifically allowed by Kansas law, Kobach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson County is breaking the law by imposing this new tax for this purpose. The money raised would fund mental health and emergency medical services. Kobachs opinion, sought by Kansas Republican Senator Mike Thompson, warned that a court would find the resolution null and void because the tax is really a new tax, not a renewal. Lenexa man sentenced for killing wife, son during police standoff In a statement, the county said commissioners are reviewing and considering the opinion: While the opinion does not carry the force of law and is not binding on courts or other entities, the Board of County Commissioners is reviewing and considering its content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The existing quarter-cent Public Safety Sales Tax III was initially approved by Johnson County voters in 2016. It is currently set to expire on March 31, 2027. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kansas City may take a big step toward meeting the first goal in its plan to end homelessness published three years ago approving a proposal for a low-barrier shelter. Such shelters accept people without requiring participation in things like religious programs. Theyre considered a key step in reducing the population of people living outside, and most cities of Kansas Citys size have one. City officials have eyed using federal grant funds to help support a shelter for years but until this week had not settled on a specific plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City Councils finance committee on Tuesday forwarded a $7.4 million proposal for Care Beyond the Boulevard, a nonprofit that provides medical care and other services to homeless residents in Kansas City, to establish a low-barrier shelter for families and individuals at 5100 Linwood Boulevard. The site is near the intersection of Linwood and Emanuel Cleaver II boulevards near Stadium Drive and was once a Days Inn and has already been used to provide services to homeless residents for the past few years. It will be a non-congregate shelter, meaning those staying there would have their own space. Care Beyond the Boulevard would purchase the property. The proposed shelter would have 39 beds, including at least 13 regular beds and around 26 beds for people who need a roof over their heads while recovering from injury or illness after being discharged from a hospital. Those numbers could fluctuate based on the need for medical beds. All beds are considered low-barrier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients would be able to stay off the streets while they recover while also having access to medical care and other services to improve their health and outlook long-term. The shelter would be open 24/7 and offer case management and other supportive services to those who stay there. Services would be free. Medical, other services available Care Beyond the Boulevard is already using the site to provide 12 medical beds to those in need. The funding the committee advanced on Tuesday would help rehabilitate the building, including fixing the plumbing while increasing the number of beds and adding 24/7 medical staffing. KK Assmann, founder and CEO of Care Beyond the Boulevard, told The Star that in a recent time period, around 70 patients were released from medical respite, and half of them did not return to the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients have access to a host of medical treatments while under the groups care, including psychology services, medication-assisted treatment for addiction, physical therapy, wound care, IV treatments and beyond, depending on their needs. Were providing truly individualized care, she said. Residents who are receiving a traditional shelter bed would still have access to an array of services and care and would have easy access to medical staff if needed, Assmann said. The City Council is expected to consider the award at a future date, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development would need to approve the proposal as well. Jaynell KK Assmann consoles Chris Culp in the hallways of Care Beyond the Boulevard on Monday, Aug. 14, 2023, at the Independence Boulevard Christian Church in Kansas City. Culp receives free physical therapy and support from Care Beyond the Boulevard. Gap in shelter beds Kansas City has long faced a significant gap in permanent spaces that offer shelter without hurdles to jump through for homeless residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August 2022, the City Council approved setting aside federal grant funds to help cover the costs of a non-congregate, low-barrier shelter to help close that gap. Last spring, the city put out a call for proposals from organizations to provide such a shelter. Care Beyond the Boulevard had since been identified to receive some of the federal funding to provide services. The city had also previously discussed working with Hope Faith, another group that provides services for homeless residents, on a low-barrier shelter, but the organizations plan did not fit the requirements of the federal grant funding. The finance committee on Tuesday voted to recommend awarding $7.4 million to Care Beyond the Boulevard to renovate and operate the Linwood shelter space, including $7.1 million in federal grant money and additional city funds to help keep the area surrounding the shelter maintained and in good condition for the neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City Council is expected to consider the award at a future date, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development would need to approve the proposal before it can move forward. Site already used to help homeless population The former hotel property has already been used to provide services to homeless Kansas Citians. In 2021, the city approved providing $400,000 in funding for the Lotus Care House, which offered shelter and a full suite of services at the same site to homeless residents to help them transition into permanent housing. Care Beyond provided medical respite beds for the Lotus Care House, which has since ceased operations. Care Beyond has continued to provide services in the building as the group works to purchase and rehab it. Tuesdays proposal represents a major step in addressing homelessness in Kansas City and following through on plans laid out years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials have made clear their goal to beef up access to services and the number of beds for homeless residents, but the city has faced hurdles in carrying out plans including concerns from neighborhood residents. The Kansas City area has the highest percentage of people experiencing chronic homelessness living unsheltered of any major U.S. city, according to a 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Of 280 individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the area at that time, nearly 96% were living outside. KANSAS CITY, Mo. A 2-month-old baby boy in Kansas City died last fall, and police say the childs death is now being investigated as a homicide. The child, identified by Kansas City police as Mateo Rideout, died on Nov. 5, days after he was injured and rushed to Childrens Mercy Hospital. See the latest forecast, maps and radar for Kansas City No arrests or charges have been announced in the case as of Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas City police were first notified of the incident about 6:30 p.m. Oct. 26, 2024. According to police, officers were called to Childrens Mercy Hospital to investigate an assault that reportedly occurred on Northwest Milrey Drive near Northwest 80th Street in the Northland. Hospital staff members told police that the baby was brought in and had life-threatening injuries. Police did not disclose how the child was hurt. One person was detained for questioning at the time. Then, on Nov. 5, 2024, the baby died as a result of the injuries, two months after he was born. The incident was being investigated as a suspicious death until detectives received an official autopsy report form the medical examiners office in June, ruling the death a homicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android On Wednesday, Kansas City police said the case was turned over to the Platte County prosecutors office for the consideration of charges. This is a developing story and will be updated as FOX4 learns more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. TOPEKA (KSNT) When someone in Kansas becomes the victim of abuse or neglect, the state has a system in place to investigate. However, new evidence suggests that system is flawed. Under state law there are three state agencies that are tasked with handling abuse, neglect and exploitation cases. These agencies are the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability (KDADS), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), and the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). A recent state audit found that many cases of abuse and neglect were not investigated properly. State auditors said it is believed to be due to an overcomplicated reporting system, as well as a lack of communication between the agencies. The states process for investigating allegations and identifying perpetrators is complicated and fragmented. State law is also unclear about agencies responsibilities. We found KDADS and DCF keep registries of perpetrators, but KDHE does not. KDHE doesnt investigate allegations of ANE because KDHE officials believe they lack the authority to do so. We also identified issues with how agencies refer allegations to each other. These issues suggest not all suspected perpetrators get investigated and that agencies registries may be incomplete. Legislative Division of Post Audit excerpt Kansas audit uncovers free student lunch misallocations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 27 News spoke with a state auditor who believes the Kansas Legislature needs to focus on improving the system during the 2026 session. One of the recommendations we made was to the Legislature and that was for them to consider amending state law so that they could clarify exactly what agencies are supposed to be doing, said Josh Luthi, principal auditor at the Kansas Legislative Division of Post Audit (LPA). Each of the agencies we spoke with understood their responsibilities under the state law differently. State law requires all abuse and neglect cases to be fully investigated within 30 working days. K-State axes LGBTQ+ center amid DEI fallout at Kansas universities Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kansas Corporation Commissioner Dwight Keen questioned Evergy officials about why they were willing to accept a settlement of about $69 million less than they originally requested. (Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Regulators questioned Evergy officials Monday about its rate case, honing in on why the company was willing to accept a $69 million decrease from its initial request. Evergy had asked the Kansas Corporation Commission for a $197 million base rate increase. Instead, after hours of negotiations with KCC staff, attorneys for industrial consumers, the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board and others, they agreed to a $128 million increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unanimous settlement agreement increases residential base rates by 9.6%, which will bump an average homeowners bill by about $9 per month. Darrin Ives, Evergy vice president for regulatory affairs, said much of the difference in the two amounts is attributed to a lower return on equity and changes to capital structure. Capital structure affects how the utility finances and manages its operations. Evergy asked for a 10.5% return on equity for investors and settled at 9.7%, Ives said, calling it a significant move. Evergy ROE currently is set at 9.4% by the commission. It may be a little bit low from our view of a peer utility perspective, but it certainly is within the range of reasonableness and within a range that we feel comfortable that we can tell our investors that Kansas is supportive of continued investment and continued economic development in the state, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ives said the settlement agreement was moderate to slightly below average compared to peer states and utilities. Other Midwest utilities, such as Ameren and Xcel Energy, reported return on equities of more than 10%, according to data on Macrotrends. Panasonic allocations Panasonics new $4 billion battery plant in De Soto is a new customer on Evergys grid that has the potential to bring in large revenue increases over time. In the settlement agreement, Evergy and KCC staff had opposing views on how to share those revenues between investors and ratepayers, Ives said. Commissioner Dwight Keen asked Ives to explain his willingness to agree to a completely different outcome than Ives expressed in prefiled testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue was whether the company would keep 100% of the Panasonic revenue increases between rate cases. Ives said he felt that should be the case, as Evergy is responsible for all costs between cases. Staff took the opposite viewpoint, and parties to the settlement agreement compromised. If Evergy, between this current rate case and the next, reached the 9.7% ROE, then 50% of Panasonics revenue would be shared back to consumers. Keen noted that ensuring fairness between investors and ratepayers is important work of KCC. The balancing proposition we have is between making sure that the monopolies, the utilities, we regulate can derive a fair rate of return, on the one hand, he said. We have to balance that against the affordability to the ratepayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Panasonic production Commissioner Andrew French questioned Ives out of curiosity about media reports that Panasonic would not achieve full production on its original schedule. He said a Bloomberg interview with Panasonic North American president Megan Myungwon Lee indicated that was misinformation and that the plant would be at full production by the end of the year. Panasonic spokeswoman Alison Klooster, responding to a Kansas Reflector inquiry, said in an email the company would not be at full production by the end of the year. Megan Lee was referring to De Soto getting to the point of full mass production this year, meaning that the lines that are currently operational will reach that point of full mass production, Klooster said. She was not referring to the current maximum planned production capacity of the entire facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to questions whether the company still planned to meet its full production capacity by the original date of spring 2027, she said the company is excited to have begun production. It has always been our plan to grow our North American business in a sustainable manner within the market, she said. We have seen 11% growth in U.S. electric vehicle sales in Q1 this year compared with last year, and we are carefully assessing demand trends to expand production capacity while responding to the needs and requests of our customers. KCC will make a decision on the rate case by Sept. 29. It's been a perfectly pleasant summer in Kentucky, hasn't it? Right, so long as you've never stepped a foot outside your air-conditioned home. For the rest of us, summer has been a grueling, hot and sweaty mess. The latest heat dome isn't helping. If your heart is already set on autumn leaves and Pumpkin Spice Lattes, the Old Farmer's Almanac has issued its seasonal fall weather forecast for the Midwest. Their prediction paints a cool and crisp autumn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climatologists at the National Weather Service, however, might disagree. Here's what forecast models are predicting for Kentucky when summer ends and fall begins. Story continues after photo gallery. When is the first day of fall? September 22, 2025, is the first official day of fall in the northern hemisphere. Old Farmer's Almanac: Fall 2025 forecast for Kentucky The Old Farmers Almanac, not to be confused with the Farmer's Almanac, is predicting a "cool and dry" fall for Kentucky and the larger region The Ohio Valley, upper Midwest and most of New England are predicted to have cooler than normal temperatures in September and October, writes the Old Farmer's Almanac, by as much two degrees. 2025 fall weather forecast map Farmer's Almanac issues Autumn Outlook for 2025 The 2025 autumn outlook by the Farmer's Almanac is calling for a "flirty, flurry, fall" this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Fall 2025 is shaping up to be a season of contrasts across the United States," writes the almanac. "From early chills in the North to lingering warmth in the South, and from stormy skies to tranquil stretches, this fall will keep us on our toes." The Northeast and Southeast can expect a mix of weather in September that includes thunderstorms while the Midwest is predicted to have clearer skies, according to the almanac. Severe thunderstorms and the potential for a tornado "will loom over the central states, particularly the Ohio Valley and the Plains." Kayakers paddle on the Ohio River at the Mayor's 20th Hike, Bike & Paddle event on Labor Day Sept. 2, 2024 in Louisville, Ky. October and November are predicted to bring traditionally cool weather to large swaths of the country, with the Great Lakes regions seeing a chance for early snow. Whether either almanac gets it right this year remains to be seen. How accurate are the Farmer's Almanac and Old Farmer's Almanac? Despite assertions the almanacs are 80-85% accurate, studies have shown their long-range predictions are sometimes little better than a coin flip. One study cited by Popular Mechanics reported the Farmer's Almanac was right about 52% of the time. What NOAA's Climate Prediction Center says about fall 2025 Meteorologists with NOAA's Climate Prediction Center have offered a peek into what lies in store for Kentuckians this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You might, as it turns out, have more time to wait before wearing your favorite sweater. A seasonal temperature outlook map issued Thursday, July 17, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the United States is leaning toward a warmer than average fall in 2025. A seasonal temperature outlook map issued Thursday, July 17, by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows the United States is leaning toward a warmer than normal fall. Kentucky has a 33-40% chance of seeing warmer than normal temperatures from September through November, according to NOAA. So what does an average fall look like in Kentucky, and will either almanacs get it right? Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) in full fall color at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens in Kentucky. What's the average high temperature for fall in Louisville, Kentucky? Last year, the monthly high temperatures during September, October and November in Louisville averaged 85, 76 and 61, respectively, according to fall weather data provided by the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That's a little higher than Louisville's roughly 25-year fall average. From 2000 to 2024, NWS reported monthly climate temperatures for September, October and November reached an average of 82, 71 and 58, respectively. What are the dates for the four seasons in 2025? March 20, 2025 : first day of spring. June 20, 2025 : first day of summer. Sept. 22, 2025 : first day of fall. Dec. 21, 2025: first day of winter. Summer in Kentucky: Another heat dome could affect Kentucky forecast. How hot will it get, and what is a heat dome? John Tufts covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. Find him on BlueSky at JohnWritesStuff. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: When will Kentucky cool down? Old Farmer's Almanac predicts fall season Taiwan Expo USA 2025 brings a bold vision for innovation, cultural exchange, and U.S.Taiwan partnership to Dallas from August 14-16. Free and open to the public, this three-day event invites all to experience the best of Taiwan. Nations Largest Taiwan Expo is Free and Open to the Public DALLAS & TAIPEI, Taiwan, July 23, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Taiwan Expo USA 2025 makes its long-anticipated return to the United States this August, spotlighting the vibrant and resilient economic relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan. Taking place August 1416 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, the Expo will feature a showstopping cultural and technological opening ceremony, a strategic TaiwanU.S. Supply Chain Cooperation Forum, and five interactive pavilions. Themed "Shared Vision, Stronger Partnership," Taiwan Expo 2025 will celebrate the growing collaboration between the two nations across innovation, cultural exchange, and global industry transformation. This years event comes amid growing momentum for the flourishing U.S.Taiwan economic partnership. According to Taiwan's Office of Trade Negotiations, Executive Yuan, the U.S. and Taiwan recorded a total bilateral goods trade volume of US$158.6 billion in 2024, representing a 24.2% increase from 2023. Taiwan currently ranks as the U.S.s 7th-largest trading partner. This surge, fueled by Taiwans leadership in semiconductors and AI, reflects a deepening synergy between the two economies. Taiwan Expo USA 2025 builds on this trajectory, offering a timely platform to strengthen industrial ties and expand cross-border collaboration. Opening Ceremony: Culture Meets Innovation Taiwan Expo USA 2025 will open with a vibrant ceremony, setting the tone for three days of innovation, cultural exchange, and bilateral cooperation. The program will feature a high-impact performance by the globally acclaimed Tendrum Art Percussion Group, whose fusion of traditional Taiwanese drumming with contemporary dance reflects the islands seamless integration of heritage and forward-thinking creativity. Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) Chairman, Mr. James C. F. Huang, will deliver opening remarks alongside distinguished guests. Additionally, the program will include the inauguration of the Taiwan Trade and Investment Service Center in Dallas, reinforcing Taiwans commitment to deepening economic ties across the U.S. The opening ceremony will conclude with a VIP-guided tour and luncheon reception, launching the three-day Expo with energy and momentum. Forum for the Future: TaiwanU.S. Supply Chain Cooperation Taking place on August 14, the TaiwanU.S. Supply Chain Cooperation Forum will convene prominent industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to exchange insights, foster partnerships, and co-create a resilient innovative supply chain ecosystem that strengthens bilateral cooperation. As geopolitical dynamics reshape global commerce, Taiwans pivotal role in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing ecosystem continues to align with U.S. strategic goals. Shark Tank investor Kevin OLeary on Monday downplayed emotions surrounding files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The reason why people care about this a lot, not just because of the very real Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking and the crimes that were committed, it is the fact that Donald Trump himself spent years him and his allies promised their base, We are going to deliver the Epstein client list thats going to take down all of your Democratic enemies, journalist Ahmed Baba told CNNs Abby Phillip in a clip highlighted by Mediaite. Bring it, OLeary cut in. Bring it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, yes, bring it, Donald. Please, Donald, bring it, Baba retorted. Nobody gives a poop, the Shark Tank investor responded. In the last few weeks, the Trump administration has faced backlash over its handling of files linked to the Epstein case. Right-wing influencers who had long pushed conspiracy theories about Epstein turned their fury toward the Trump administration, especially Attorney General Pam Bondi, due to a recent Justice Department memo that dispelled many of the theories. The Epstein saga has also continued to cause chaos in the House, with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) blocking votes on the matter until September after Democrats threatened to force votes about the files, which would put House Republicans in a politically challenging spot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump and House Republicans have the power to release the Epstein files today. They refuse to do it. What are they hiding from the American people? House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) wrote Monday in a post on the social platform X. The Hill has reached out to the White House and the House Republican Conference for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Kentucky Fried Chicken announced the fast food chain is giving away free buckets of chicken but there is a catch. Here's what to know in Alabama about how to get the deal. The restaurant said its plan "Kentucky Fried Comeback" will put KFC "back on top" as Americas No. 1 chicken chain. Fried chicken, whether on a bun or in a wrap, has been heating up the competition among fast-food joints. McDonald's reintroduced its Snack Wrap, sparking a friendly war on tortilla-wrapped chicken. KFC's fried chicken, made with the Colonels "legendary blend of 11 herbs and spices" is what put the company on the map. So following strides in operations to improve the brands taste and customer satisfaction scores, KFC said its kitchens are inviting customers back to taste the difference "crispy, hot, and unmistakably original," the restaurant said in a Monday, July 14 news release. Were well aware of the latest fried chicken rankings and Im fired up to launch a bold Kentucky Fried Comeback and remind America exactly who we are," said KFC United States President Catherine Tan-Gillespi in a news release. "If people can give their ex a million second chances, I hope our fans can give us one... Come back and give us a shot your first buckets on us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabamians, here's how to get a free bucket of KFC chicken. Free Kentucky Fried Chicken buckets offered at the fast food chain on July 14, 2025. More: Time to spread some peanut butter flavors | LOST RECIPES How to get a free KFC bucket of chicken To get a free Kentucky Fried Chicken buckets offered at the fast food chain, fans must go online and first spend $15 bucks. The "Free Bucket On Us deal is a digital offer, available on KFC.com and the KFC app at select stores through the KFC Rewards account with $15+ online purchase (before taxes and other fees). The promotion ends on Aug. 24th, Maria Schmitz, a spokesperson for the company told USA TODAY on July 14. Free Kentucky Fried Chicken buckets offered at the fast food chain on July 14, 2025. The offer must be redeemed prior to checkout, KFC said. After customers try the chicken, the company is asking for feedback through a form on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky Fried Chicken has lots of locations in Alabama. Find one near you using the restaurant's store locator. The deal cannot be combined with other offers and customers are responsible for taxes and fees, according to KFC. KFC announced plans to move headquarters KFC is currently headquartered in Louisville, but recently announced plans to move out of Kentucky. In mid February, its owner, Yum! Brands, said it will create two new brand headquarters in Plano, Texas, and Irvine, California. According to a February news release from the company, 100 KFC corporate employees will relocate to Texas this year with 90 remote workers doing the same into early 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Fernando Cervantes Jr. Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: KFC's 'comeback' plan includes free chicken: How to get it in Alabama BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The 225 Theatre Collective will host a pop-up acting class for kids and teens on July 26. Co-founders of 225 Theatre Collective, Stephanie Calero and Victoria Brown, are going to be working closely with students to make theatre magic. While Calero focuses on how the actors perform on the stage, Brown gives them the character to physically step into. The pop-up class is really nice to see if you are into acting, if they want to get into any camps as well, Calero said. Brown said the class teaches acting itself and techniques to get into character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than acting goes into making a show spectacular. Costumes, props and basic sewing techniques are part of the process. Young kids ages 5-10 can attend the first session from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kids ages 11-17 can attend the second session from noon to 1 p.m. The registration fee is $25. Click here to register for the class. Acting classes will be held at 7338 Highland Road in Baton Rouge, across from Superior Grill. Manship Theatre reveals concert lineup for fall 2025 Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. KILLEEN, Texas (FOX 44) UPDATE: The superintendent of the Killeen Independent School District is leaving for San Antonio. The Northside Independent School District tells FOX 44 News that its Board of Trustees approved the hiring and appointment of Dr. Jo Ann Fey to its position of Deputy Superintendent for Administration. This action was taken by the Northside ISD Board at its regularly called meeting on Tuesday. In addition, Killeen ISD says Dr. Fey has notified its Board of Trustees of her intention to submit her resignation letter. As a result, the Board of Trustees is calling for a special meeting scheduled for Saturday, July 26, where they will discuss and consider appointing an acting/interim superintendent to manage day-to-day operations until a permanent replacement is selected. The Board will also discuss options related to the search process for identifying and selecting the next Killeen ISD superintendent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of the Killeen ISD Board of Trustees, I want to thank Dr. Fey for her service to our students, staff, and community, said Brett E. Williams, Killeen ISD Board President. Dr. Fey has facilitated several initiatives during her tenure that will benefit our district for years to come. We appreciate her contributions. Although transitions like these may bring uncertainty, they also create opportunities for growth. The Board will move swiftly to ensure that our KISD family is not compromised as we navigate the search process. Our community deserves a process that is transparent and thorough, identifying a new leader who will continue to keep the needs of our students at the forefront. Williams emphasized that the board is confident that the search process will identify a superintendent with the skillset needed to lead Killeen ISD. The search process will include community input, and Williams pledged to provide regular updates to ensure transparency. Ensuring we continue to be focused on academic growth and educational excellence remain the Boards highest priorities, Williams said. Killeen ISD says Dr. Fey cites the desire to support her family, including aging parents and welcoming her first grandchild this fall, as key factors in her decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes after the fatal stabbing of 14-year-old Serenity Baker at Roy J. Smith Middle School on March 10, 2025. This incident sparked widespread concern over school safety. Students at Roy J. Smith returned to campus on March 25, 2025 following an extended closure after the fatal stabbing. Dr. Fey confirmed a new monitoring team as assigned to the school to enhance safety, a measure that many parents requested. Dr. Fey also noted that student attendance remained strong, with a 93 percent attendance rate, similar to the rate before the incident. Roy J. Smith Middle School principal Frederick Lilly resigned on April 4. Superintendent Dr. Fey had recommended for Lillys contract be terminated with cause. The Killeen ISD board accepted the resignation. Dr. Bobbie Reeders was named the interim principal of Roy J. Smith Middle School on April 7. Northside ISD is currently led by Dr. John Craft, who previously served as Killeen ISDs superintendent for eleven years. Dr. Fey was hired at Killeen ISD after Dr. Crafts departure in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. Killeen, Tx (FOX 44) A 37-year-old Killeen man has been arrested in Belton on murder charges in connection with a 2007 cold case in Riverside County, California. Keith Crutchfield was picked up on a murder warrant by U.S. Marshals and remained in the Bell County Jail Wednesday with extradition proceedings pending. Crutchfield was charged along with two men arrested in Riverside, one in Phoenix, Arizona and one in Beaumont, Texas, in connection with a fatal home invasion robbery that occurred on June 13, 2007 in Mead Valley, California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Riverside County deputies had responded to a home invasion robbery and reports of a shooting at 11:54 p.m. on that date. Upon their arrival, they located a man identified as 51-year-old Andres Valdes suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Several additional victims who had been assaulted and suffered minor injuries were also located at the scene. Deputies learned that several masked men had entered the property with the apparent intent of committing a robbery. Valdes got involved in a fight with them and he was shot and killed. The Riverside County Sheriffs Office Central Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took the lead in the investigation. However, with few leads and little evidence, the case went cold without an arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February of this year, the unit began reviewing the investigation and the case was reopened. Over a period of months, multiple suspects were identified as being involved in the robbery and murder. The first arrest came July 5 in Riverside, followed by a second the next day. Two more suspects were arrested July 14, one in Phoenix,. Arizona and another in Beaumont, Texas, then Monday Crutchfield was found and arrested in Belton. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Three rulings by federal judges on July 23 have ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia to be released from jail in coming weeks and put under the supervision of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Maryland, where his family lives. An advocate for Abrego Garcia, Ama Frimpong of Maryland nonprofit CASA, said the rulings "give Kilmar a measure of protection and his family a measure of peace." U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw, of Tennessee, ruled Abrego Garcia must be released from jail before trial on criminal charges he faces in Tennessee. However, he will remain in jail for an additional 30 days, which defense attorneys requested with the consent of prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile a judge in Maryland ordered Abrego Garcia to be transferred to supervised release under ICE's Baltimore office after his release from jail in Tennessee. Additionally, ICE must give Abrego Garcia 72 hours notice if it plans to deport him, so he can assert claims of credible fear or seek any other relief, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis, in Maryland, wrote. Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, one of Abrego Garcia's immigration attorneys, said the requirement that ICE give advance warning of plans to deport Abrego Garcia is essential in light of his previous illegal deportation. He called the rulings a "powerful rebuke" of the government's "lawless conduct." "We are grateful the court recognized that Kilmars rights and safety are at stake, and that the governments past actions give serious cause for concern, Sandoval-Moshenberg said. In the Tennessee case, Crenshaw said he considered the nature and circumstances of the charged offenses, the weight of the evidence, Abrego Garcia's history and any possible danger he may pose to the community. Crenshaw found government prosecutors failed to establish a strong case to detain Abrego Garcia, who has a history of cooperating with law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Government has failed to show on appeal that this case is one of the 'carefully limited exception[s]' where detention pending trial is justified, entitling Abrego to his liberty in the meantime," Crenshaw wrote. Crenshaw also ruled Abrego Garcia was not at risk to skip court upon release to avoid being deported again, which the government had argued. "[I]t is not difficult to see why one might seek to avoid ICE after experiencing what Abrego did in recent months," Crenshaw wrote. "[T]he irony of the Government making this argument when it ... created these circumstances is not lost on this court." The government has continuously alleged Abrego Garcia is a member of the notorious street gang MS-13, while offering little proof to substantiate that claim. That same allegation was repeated in a post to X by Homeland Security assistant secretary for public affairs Tricia McLaughlin after the rulings. McLaughlin stated Abrego Garcia would "never walk Americas streets again." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego Garcia's attorneys in Tennessee recently asked that any order to release him from jail be delayed for 30 days. While they argued Abego Garcia has a right to be let out of jail, they said government officials planned to apprehend Abrego Garcia and begin deportation proceedings if he was released. To Democratic U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, of Maryland, that was a sign the government wanted to circumvent the courts. "Its clear this Administration would rather deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a third country, with no chance at due process, than argue their case in court," Van Hollen said in a statement. "This order will prevent that." Abrego Garcia's immigration attorneys said he is a sheet metal worker who lived in Maryland with his wife and three children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego Garcia entered the U.S. without authorization around 2011. Immigration authorities issued a final order of removal for Abrego Garcia in 2019, but they said he could not be released to his home country of El Salvador due to credible fears of persecution by gangs in that country. The U.S. deported him to a Salvadoran mega prison in March, prompting a unanimous rebuke from the U.S. Supreme Court to bring him back. He was brought back June 6 to face charges of alien smuggling, centering around a 2022 traffic stop in Cookeville, Tennessee. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. The U.S. Department of Justice declined to comment. Ruben Montoya contributed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Have questions about the justice system? Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him with questions, tips or story ideas at emealins@tennessean.com. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Abrego Garcia to be released from jail, put under ICE supervision According to Israeli law, the current status of the territories it captured from Jordan in the Six-Day War, save for east Jerusalem, is that of a temporary belligerent occupation. Following a long debate in the plenum, the Knesset approved a declaratory resolution on Wednesday in support of applying Israeli sovereignty to Judea, Samaria, and the Jordan Valley. The vote passed by a large margin, 71-13, with six votes coming from the opposition Yisrael Beytenu party and four from United Torah Judaism, despite the latter having left the coalition and government on July 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opposition parties Yesh Atid and Blue and White did not participate in the vote, and the Democrats, Raam, and Hadash-Taal voted against the resolution. The vote was categorized as a debate on a topic that the Knesset decided to place on the agenda without any operational or legislative consequences. View of the Israeli settlement of Karnei Shomron, in the West Bank on July 2, 2020. (credit: SRAYA DIAMANT/FLASH90) Proposed by Knesset Land of Israel caucus leaders MKs Simcha Rothman (Religious Zionist Party), Dan Illouz (Likud), and Limor Son Har-Melech (Otzma Yehudit), the resolution states as follows: The Knesset affirms that the State of Israel has a natural, historical, and legal right to the entirety of the Land of Israel the ancestral homeland of the Jewish people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Knesset calls upon the cabinet of Israel to act promptly to extend Israeli sovereignty, including law, jurisdiction, and administration, over all areas of Jewish communities, in all its forms, in Judea, Samaria, and the Jordan Valley. This action will strengthen the State of Israel and its security, and will safeguard the fundamental right of the Jewish people to peace and security in their homeland. On behalf of the Jewish people living in Zion, we call upon our friends around the world to stand with the desire to return to Zion and the vision of the prophets, and to support the State of Israel in exercising its natural, historical, and legal right to the Land of Israel and in implementing Israels sovereignty. According to the resolutions preamble, Judea, Samaria, and the Jordan Valley are an inseparable part of the Land of Israel the historical, cultural, and spiritual homeland of the Jewish people. Centuries and millennia before the establishment of the State of Israel, the patriarchs, prophets, and founders of the Jewish nation lived and acted in these regions. Cities such as Hebron, Shechem (Nablus), Shiloh, and Beit El are not merely historic sites they are living symbols of the continuous Jewish presence in the Holy Land. The preface continued, Sovereignty in Judea and Samaria is an integral part of fulfilling Zionism and the national vision of the Jewish people returning to their ancestral homeland. The October 7, 2023, massacre demonstrated that the establishment of a Palestinian state poses an existential threat to Israel, its citizens, and the stability of the entire region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 18, 2024, the Knesset declared its opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, stating that such a state would endanger the State of Israel and its citizens, perpetuate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and undermine regional stability. This resolution effectively removed the concept of a Palestinian state from the agenda, the preamble concluded. In his speech presenting the resolution, Rothman alluded to the July 2024 resolution. A year ago, my colleagues and I, as members of the Knesset Land of Israel caucus, had the privilege of advancing a historic resolution in this house a resolution by which the Knesset firmly rejected the establishment of a Palestinian state between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea, Rothman said. For many painful years, both the State of Israel and the international community were misled by the PLOs Staged Plan for the destruction of Israel and the Zionist enterprise. From the days of the Oslo Accords, through the 2005 Disengagement from the Gaza Strip, and via various diplomatic initiatives, the notion of establishing a terrorist state in the heart of our land loomed dangerously, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the people of Israel awoke. And you, my fellow members of this honorable house, stood together and declared before the Angel of Destruction: Enough! No more! We removed the idea of a Palestinian state from the national and global agenda through a principled, clear, and resolute declaration by the Knesset, Rothman said. The MK refuted the claim that the vote was meaningless since it was merely declaratory. Indeed, a Knesset resolution does not itself implement sovereignty, he said. According to Israeli law, only the government, using an executive order, or the Knesset via formal legislation, can extend Israeli law, jurisdiction, and administration to parts of the Land of Israel. But even as a declaration, this resolution carries immense meaning. It expresses our unbreakable bond with the Land of Israel, the cradle of Jewish civilization. It reflects the national aspiration to realize the return to Zion. It calls upon the Israeli government to act without delay, by its authority, to transform vision into reality, Rothman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also calls upon Israels friends worldwide to stand behind the moral, legal, historical, religious, and cultural right of the Jewish people and its nation-state to the entire Land of Israel, and to support the demand that the Jewish people be sovereign in their homeland, he continued. In his speech during the opening of the debate, Illouz said in English, Today, for the first time ever, the Knesset is officially expressing its support for applying sovereignty over Judea and Samaria. Judea and Samaria are not bargaining chips; they are the very heart of our ancestral homeland, the very places where our ancestors walked. Sovereignty is not merely a political stance; it represents victory, identity, and lasting security in the Middle East, he said. Across the world, nations respect those who stand firmly for their values. I call for sovereignty now with pride, with resolve, and without hesitation. Opposition leader MK Yair Lapid said in a statement at the start of the debate, The coalitions attempt to inflate a procedural motion an event with no legal significance is a pathetic and ridiculous effort to divert attention from the political reality that tonight, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will dismiss the chairperson of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee amid a war, simply because he refused to promote draft evasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wont help them. The disgrace is theirs to bear, he said. According to Israeli law, the current status of the territories it captured from Jordan in the Six Day War, save for east Jerusalem, is that of a temporary belligerent occupation, and the legal governor of the territories is the IDF Central Commands commanding officer. During the Oslo Accords signed between Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the 1990s, the territories were split into three different designations Area A, chiefly Palestinian towns and cities that are under full security and civilian control of the PA; Area B, which is under Israels security control but the Palestinians civil control; and Area C, which is under Israeli security and civilian control. Half a million Israeli settlers live in the West Bank Israels approximately 500,000 settlers reside primarily in Area C. Israel views the majority of its settlements as legal under domestic law, built on state land and according to legally viable government decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A majority of international organizations view the settlements as a violation of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which outlaws settling civilians in conquered territory. Israel has said in its defense that Israeli citizens were neither deported nor transferred to the territories, and that the territory is not occupied since there had been no internationally recognized legal sovereign there prior. In 2024, the International Court of Justice in The Hague issued an advisory opinion that Israels presence in the West Bank was no longer temporary and therefore unlawful under international law. WACO, Texas (FOX 44) The 2025 Waco Walk to End Alzheimers is taking place on Saturday, October 11th, and FOX 44 is a proud sponsor! Harbor Hospice community education coordinator Casey Tusa paid a visit to our studio to tell us more about the event. You can watch our interview 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 KWKT - FOX 44. What to know as accused Jacksonville gang members at the center of deadly drill rap beef go on trial Jacksonvilles drill rap scene is not what it was five or six years ago. And thats a good thing. Drill music, a subgenre of hip-hop, originated in Chicago in the early 2010s during violent gang wars there. It was taken to new heights here as Jacksonville rappers made songs addressing real-life gang conflicts and murders often mocking and taunting victims and rivals. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The world took note as bloggers and YouTubers across the globe made content about Jacksonville rappers making viral music video after viral music video addressing real-life Duval murders in sordid detail. Many of these rappers are now dead, in jail, keeping a low profile, or have been run out of Jacksonville. The seemingly countless bodies left in the wake of this gang beef that played out in violent rap videos like Who I Smoke and When I See You still linger and will be playing out in Duval County Circuit Court over the next week or so. One of Jacksonvilles most prolific drill rappers, Hakeem Robinson, 26, known as Ksoo, is standing trial for murder. He and Leroy Whitaker Jr., 24, known as ATK Scotty are accused of killing Charles McCormick, 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCormick was also an aspiring rapper who performed under the name Lil Buck. Charles McCormick Lil Buck McCormick was shot to death in Dames Pointe Plaza on Merrill Road on January 15, 2020. One of the six defendants in his killing is a man named Dominique Barner. Barner is cooperating with investigators. According to an arrest warrant, he told Jacksonville Sheriffs Office investigators that Robinsons beef with McCormick began after McCormick mocked the death of Robinsons half-brother, Willie Addison. Addison, also a rapper who performed under the name Boss Goon was shot to death Jan. 16, 2019, after a rap concert at Paradise Gentlemens Club on Baymeadows Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abdul Robinson Sr., Hakeems and Addisons father, was also in the vehicle that was shot up when Addison was killed. He was struck in the back and survived. Robinson Sr. is also a defendant in McCormicks killing. He, like Barner, is cooperating with police and is expected to testify against his Hakeem Robinson. Charles McCormick Jr. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Hakeem Robinson - Ksoo Jacksonville police said an off-duty officer witnessed McCormicks killing. An arrest warrant states that the officer saw a gunman stand over McCormick and shoot him with a rifle. The gunman then fled in a Nissan Altima. The off-duty officer chased the Nissan. The car crashed and three people jumped out and ran, according to an arrest warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say Hakeem Robinsons fingerprint was found on a rifle in the car and his hair was found on a T-shirt nearby. Detailed in the warrant is what Hakeem Robinson posted on his Instagram account after McCormicks murder. It was a portion of a music video made by Lil Buck with the added caption Byeeee byeeee with emojis of waving hands. Another Instagram post showed Hakeem Robinson getting a pedicure with the caption Kill a n----- then go get my toes done. The gunman who killed McCormick was captured on surveillance video. Prosecutors say its Hakeem Robinson. Robinsons lawyers say its not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interrogation video of Robinson Sr., police ask him whos in the video shooting McCormick, to which Robinson Sr. replies, Hakeem. His son. After standing trial in McCormicks killing, Hakeem Robinson will stand trial for another murder. Hes also accused of killing Adrian Gainer Jr., aka Bibby on Feb. 25, 2019, at a Moncrief area apartment complex. Robinson made multiple videos and social media posts mocking Gainers death. Hakeem Robinson (L), and Leroy Whitaker are accused in the 2020 shooting death of Charles McCormick. Leroy Whitaker Jr. - ATK Scotty About eight minutes after the vehicle chase and crash following McCormicks murder, a female homeowner was assaulted in her home by men during a home invasion, according to an arrest warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the suspects, Dominque Barner, was arrested after forcing the woman to the ground and choking her. The suspects changed clothes using items belonging to the victims husband, the warrant states. They also stole her cellphone before fleeing in a red or orange Dodge vehicle. Jacksonville crime scene detectives collected the victims clothing as evidence and DNA analysis. The analysis linked Leroy Whitaker to the crime through DNA found on the victims pajama bottoms, the warrant states. Whitaker is charged with murder in the first degree as a criminal gang member, burglary with assault or battery, and home invasion robbery. Abdul Robinson Sr., (L) and Dominique Barner are suspects in the 2020 shooting death of Charles McCormick Jr. They are testifying on behalf of the state against other defendants. [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. Welcome back to TechCrunch Mobility your central hub for news and insights on the future of transportation. Sign up here for free just click TechCrunch Mobility! A little bird Image Credits:Bryce Durbin If it wasnt obvious before, it is now. Uber wants a big piece of the autonomous vehicle technology pie. The ride-hailing company has spent the past two years locking in partnerships with just about every AV company you can think of, and across every sector, including delivery, robotaxis, and trucks. And yet, I wasnt totally prepared for the amount of money Uber invested in its latest tie-up with EV maker Lucid and AV startup Nuro. Click here to read my article on the partnership agreement and Ubers plans for a premium robotaxi service. Were here in the Little bird section because Ive learned something new, and welp, I wanted to share it with subscribers first. As a publicly traded company, Lucid had to disclose that Uber invested $300 million into the company. But Uber didnt have to share what it invested into Nuro, saying only that it was a multi-hundred-million-dollar figure. One source with direct knowledge told me it was more than Lucids $300 million. Since the article was published, Ive had some little birds fly in to tell me it was around $400 million. Got a tip for us? Email Kirsten Korosec at kirsten.korosec@techcrunch.com or my Signal at kkorosec.07, Sean OKane at sean.okane@techcrunch.com, or Rebecca Bellan at rebecca.bellan@techcrunch.com. Deals! Image Credits:Bryce Durbin When Waymo shuttered its self-driving trucks program, I wondered where that talent would go. And I (correctly) assumed some might go off and start their own companies. Last year, I heard that Boris Sofman, who led the self-driving trucks program at Waymo, had started an autonomous vehicle technology startup focused on heavy equipment used at construction sites. I had even written a little nugget about it in the Little bird section. But I was never able to verify exactly how much it raised and who else was attached to it. Now we know. The startup, called Bedrock Robotics, raised $80 million from investors Eclipse and 8VC. Sofman co-founded Bedrock Robotics alongside Waymo veterans Kevin Peterson and Ajay Gummalla, as well as Tom Eliaz, who previously worked at Segment and Twilio. Other deals that got my attention this week Amogy, a Brooklyn-based ammonia-to-power startup that can apply its tech to shipping, raised another $23 million in funding, bringing its most recent fundraise to $80 million. The round was led by the Korea Development Bank and KDB Silicon Valley LLC with participation from BonAngels Venture Partners, JB Investment, and Pathway Investment. A 22-year-old college student in La Crosse was found dead about 13 miles south of the city in Minnesota. Eliotte Heinz had not been seen since July 20 in La Crosse and was found near Brownsville, Minnesota, in the Mississippi River on July 23 at about 10:28 a.m., the La Crosse Police Department said in a news release. For three days, authorities and community members had been searching for the graduate student from Hortonville, a village in the Fox Valley. "This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search. Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends and all those who knew Eliotte," said La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron in the release. "We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police said they are awaiting an autopsy to determine the cause of death. There are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of her. Our hearts go out to Eliottes family. We hold them in our prayers and stand with them in their grief," Viterbo University President Dr. Rick Trietley said in a statement on Heinz's death. In a statement posted to the Viterbo University's Facebook page before their daughter was found, the Heinz family had thanked those searching for her and asked people to send further information to police. The university said it would hold a memorial service for Heinz in the fall once students return to campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those looking for other missing people in Wisconsin and details on them can review the state Department of Justice's database. Here's what we know about Heinz. When was Eliotte Heinz last seen? La Crosse police say Heinz was last seen on July 20 at 2:30 a.m. at Bronco's Bar and later walking on the 500 block of Front Street South in the city at about 3:22 a.m. Heinz was wearing a white t-shirt and jean shorts. She was found three days later in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, Minnesota, police said. What is Viterbo University? Viterbo University is a private Catholic school that was founded over 130 years ago. It was founded in 1890 as the St. Rose Norman School and became Viterbo College in 1937. In 2000, it was renamed to Viterbo University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The private university is relatively small. It has just under 2,100 students and an average undergraduate class size of 16, according to enrollment information from the school. David Clarey is a public safety reporter at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He can be reached at dclarey@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Eliotte Heinz, graduate student in La Crosse, found dead Middle Tennesseans living in the states 7th Congressional District can soon expect a special election for the seat vacated by Republican Mark Green, who resigned July 20. Although it has not been officially announced yet, Gov. Bill Lee's office said in a July 10 statement that party primaries are anticipated to be held on Oct. 7, while the general election is expected to occur on Dec. 2. According to vote.gov, voter registration, be it online, by mail, or in person, will close 30 days prior to election day in Tennessee. Voters in the Volunteer State seeking to vote in the primaries can anticipate registration deadlines on Sept. 7. For the general election, Nov. 2 will likely be the deadline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district stretches as far north as Clarksville and as far south as the Tennessee-Alabama border, fully encompassing Stewart, Montgomery, Robertson, Houston, Dickson, Cheatham, Hickman, Humphreys, Decatur, Perry and Wayne counties while also covering parts of Davidson, Williamson and Benton counties. In 2024, Green won the seat comfortably over Democratic nominee and former Nashville Mayor Megan Barry, cruising to victory by a 21 point margin and earning 69,000 more votes than his opponent. Less than a year later, Tennessee's 7th Congressional District could shape out to be more competitive. Historically, Democrats tend to outperform Republicans in off-year elections. Furthermore, visits to Music City by prominent Democratic party officials have been more frequent in recent months, indicating the party could be paying more attention to the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) drew a crowd of more than 1,500 people in North Nashville, while more recently Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minnesota) hosted a town hall in Antioch on July 12 and California Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke at an East Nashtivists community meeting on July 9. Still, the district leans strongly toward the Republican party. According to the 2025 Cook Partisan Voting Index, it scores as R+10, meaning that voters in the area during the 2024 election voted 10 percentage points more for Republicans than the national average. As of July 22, nine candidates had registered as candidates in the race. Republicans running in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District to replace Mark Green Jody Barrett (R-Dickson): Representing District 69 in the state House, Barrett describes himself as the most conservative politician in Tennessee. He cites his perfect score on the John Birch Societys Freedom Index as proof of his right-wing bonafides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jason Knight (R-Clarksville): Montgomery County Commissioner Knight is an established name in the county along the Tennessee-Kentucky border. He is a U.S. Army reservist holding the rank of major and has previously served on the Clarksville City Council. Stewart Parks (R-Nashville): Parks pleaded guilty in 2022 to disorderly conduct in a restricted building or grounds for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, riots at the U.S. Capitol. He was subsequently pardoned by President Donald Trump when he started his second term earlier this year. Lee Reeves (R-Franklin): Reeves represents District 65 in the Tennessee House of Representatives and has garnered significant support in Williamson County. He has been endorsed by the mayors of all seven cities in the county, and according to a post to his campaigns X account, has raised more than $100,000 so far. Jon Thorp (R-Springfield): Thorp like some of his fellow candidates is a U.S. Army veteran and has also been a pilot for the Metro Nashville Police Department. In his announcement that he is running for Congress posted to LinkedIn, Thorp said he hasnt voted in 24 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matt Van Epps (R-Nashville): Van Epps formerly served as the commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services and is a U.S. Army veteran. Given he has been endorsed by Green, Van Epps may be the frontrunner. Democrats running in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District to replace Mark Green Aftyn Behn (D-Nashville): Behn represents District 51 in the state House. Growing up in East Tennessee, she made a name for herself with her surprise election win in 2023 as well as for her protests in the State Capitol following the Covenant School shooting. Vincent Dixie (D-Nashville): Dixie represents District 54 in the state House and has been endorsed by members of the Metro Nashville Council as well as state Rep. Justin J. Pearson, a member of the Tennessee Three. From 2020 through 2022, Dixie was the chair of the House Democratic Caucus. Bo Mitchell (D-Nashville): Born and raised in Dixon County, Mitchell has long been a player in the Volunteer States Democratic party. He represents District 50 in the Tennessee House of Representatives and has previously served on the Metro Nashville Council. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: What to know about Tennessee special election to replace Mark Green William McNeil, Jr., the 22-year-old man whose violent arrest by Jacksonville, Florida, sheriffs deputies was caught in a viral video, is expected to speak out about the incident during a press conference outside the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office on Wednesday morning. The sheriff's office said on Sunday that the agency launched an investigation into the Feb. 19 incident after the 2-minute cell phone video captured by McNeil went viral. On Monday, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters also released body camera footage from two deputies who were present on the scene of the arrest. MORE: 'I was really just scared': Man punched in viral Jacksonville traffic stop speaks publicly for 1st time Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the video, sheriff's deputies are seen beating and punching McNeil during the traffic stop after he repeatedly questioned why he was being pulled over and refused to exit his vehicle. What the video shows of McNeil's arrest McNeil was pulled over by a sheriff's deputy at 4:15 p.m. local time for allegedly not having his headlights on due to "inclement weather" and not wearing a seat belt, according to a police report obtained by ABC News. Body camera video shows McNeil telling the deputy that it wasn't raining and he didn't need to have his headlights turned on and asked to speak with a supervisor. After McNeil locks himself in his vehicle and repeatedly refuses to exit, the deputy threatens to break his window and calls for backup, the video shows. William NcNeil, Jr. via Attorney Michael Wukela - PHOTO: William McNeil, Jr. is pictured in his band uniform in an updated photo. The body camera video and the 2-minute cell phone video both captured McNeil being punched and beaten after a deputy broke his car window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The videos show McNeil speaking with a group of deputies and appearing to explain why he was pulled over by the first deputy who arrived on the scene. "There's no rain," McNeil says in the video. "It doesn't matter," a sheriff's deputy can be heard saying as they ask him to exit his vehicle. Harry Daniels, one of the attorneys representing McNeil, told ABC News Live anchor Kyra Phillips in the interview on Monday that his client refused to exit his vehicle because he was "afraid" of police. "He is afraid. You know, in this environment, policing in America, especially young men of color, are very afraid of police," Daniels said, adding that his client decided to begin recording the incident once the deputy refused to call a supervisor so he could dispute the traffic stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacksonville Sheriff's Office investigating video of Black man beaten by deputies After McNeil again asks to speak with a supervisor, the videos show a deputy -- who was identified by Waters on Monday as D. Bowers -- breaking McNeils car window and punching him in the face while McNeil is facing forward. McNeil then appears to be pulled out of his car and is punched again as he is pushed down to the ground by multiple deputies and seemingly beaten. "You're under arrest," officers can be heard saying as they push McNeil to the ground and hold him down. The charges against McNeil William McNeil - PHOTO: Cell phone video captured on Feb. 19, 2015 shows an incident that led to the arrest of William McNeal, Jr. and prompted an investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. Court records show that McNeil was arrested and charged with "resisting arrest without violence to his or her person," possessing not more than 20 grams of marijuana with intent to use drug paraphernalia, driving while driver's license is suspended, not wearing a seatbelt and no headlights in rain/fog/or smoke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, court records show that he was sentenced to and served two days in jail for resisting arrest without violence and driving with a suspended license. "McNeil was arrested and pled guilty to resisting a police officer without violence," Waters said. "Force absolutely looks ugly, and because all force is ugly, whether or not the officer involved acted within outside [Jacksonville Sheriffs Office] policy, that's still what we're investigating." No criminality in viral video of man being repeatedly punched by deputies: Sheriff In the incident report filed by Bowers, the deputy does not mention that he punched McNeil while he was sitting in his car, but says that force was used after McNeil was removed from the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report filed by Bowers also claims that McNeil reached for a knife on the floor of his vehicle as officers opened the door. The body camera video does not show McNeil reaching for a knife on the floor of his car. The video does appear to show an object that the sheriffs office identified as a knife on the floor of McNeils car that officers recovered after he was removed from the vehicle. A deputy can be heard pointing it out in the video. A reporter pressed Waters on the claim that McNeil reached for a knife, saying, I couldn't see any clear indication of that in the video. Do you see that when you're watching? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No, actually, I don't see where his hands are. I can't assume, no one can assume, Waters said. Daniels told Phillips on Monday that the claim that McNeil reached for a knife is a lie," and criticized the deputy for not disclosing that he punched McNeil in the incident report. Whats next for McNeil and the officer Waters announced on Monday that "the State Attorney's Office has determined that none of the involved officers violated criminal law," but highlighted that the deputies' actions are now being examined in an "administrative review," which will determine if the deputies "violated [Jacksonville Sheriffs Office] policy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ABC News has reached out to the Office of the State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit serving Clay, Duval, & Nassau Counties for further comment. "Pending the outcome of this administrative review, Officer Bowers has been stripped of his law enforcement authority," Waters said. It is unclear if other deputies involved in the arrest have been placed on administrative leave. "I will neither defend nor commend officer Bowers' response to resistance until all the facts are known and the investigation is completed," Waters said. It is unclear if Bowers has retained an attorney. ABC News has reached out to Jacksonville Sheriffs Office for further comment, but have not heard back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Daniels said that his client plans to take legal action. "This officer broke his window and just punched him in his face. Mr. McNeil suffered very significant injury," Daniels said. "We are planning to do everything we can do to secure justice," Daniels said when asked if the legal team plans to file a lawsuit. "We are seeking all options to ensure accountability." The Russian delegation has departed for Istanbul for a new round of negotiations with Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. The talks are scheduled to begin at 7 pm (1600 GMT) at the Ciragan Palace Hotel, sources in the Turkish Foreign Ministry said. "Of course, it will be a very difficult conversation," Peskov said, according to the TASS news agency. The talks will focus on continuing prisoner exchanges, though other issues could also be discussed if needed, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's delegation will once again be led by presidential adviser and former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the meeting earlier this week but tempered expectations. He said Kiev's priority was expanding prisoner exchanges and the return of children who were abducted by Russia from occupied territories. Ukraine's chief negotiator will once again be Rustem Umerov, former defence minister and newly appointed secretary of the National Security and Defence Council. Moscow and Kiev resumed direct talks in May for the first time since 2022. A breakthrough toward a ceasefire during this third round of negotiations is considered unlikely. Russia has been waging a full-scale war against Ukraine for more than three years. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said that the upcoming talks in Istanbul are a critical part of the groundwork for a potential meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Source: Russian state-owned news agencies RIA Novosti and Interfax; Telegram channel Vy Slushali Mayak (You have been listening to Radio Mayak), citing Peskov Quote from Peskov: "All the work that must be done on coordinating the memoranda is preparation for the meeting [of the two leaders ed.]. In this respect, yes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Peskov cautioned that it would be inadvisable to arrange a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy unless this "complex" preparatory work is done. He further noted that the upcoming round of Russo-Ukrainian negotiations will, among other topics, address the draft memoranda submitted by both sides concerning the settlement. "The subject of the negotiations is quite complex; in addition to other issues, it will naturally involve discussing the draft memoranda that were exchanged during the second round," Interfax quoted Peskov as saying. The next round of talks between Russia and Ukraine is scheduled to start at 19:00 on 23 July in Istanbul, Turkiye. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: It was previously reported that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had approved the members of the Ukrainian delegation that will attend the talks in Istanbul on 23 July. Rustem Umierov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, has been appointed head of the delegation, which includes representatives of the presidential administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the armed forces, the Security Service of Ukraine, Defence Intelligence, the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) and other bodies. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The University of Kansas is directing employees to remove their pronouns from official email signatures in response to a state mandate purging diversity practices at state universities. The mandate, buried in a budget proviso the Republican-controlled Legislature passed in April, prompted the Kansas Board of Regents to instruct institutions to make a variety of changes. Those changes include eliminating any positions, policies, programs, activities, training requirements or contracts related to diversity, equity and inclusion commonly referred to as DEI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter sent to employees Tuesday and signed by Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and two vice chancellors, officials say those required changes have already been addressed at KU. The only DEI priority left, they say, is forcing employees to comply with the new email signature policy. In keeping with the Regents directive, university employees including student employees are required to remove gender-identifying pronouns or gender ideology from the signature blocks of their state email accounts, the KU letter says. The same prohibition on pronouns applies to any other platforms that university employees use to communicate in their official capacity, including screen names on Zoom and Teams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The budget directive does not define how to interpret the ban on gender ideology, although it means depictions of the trans flag and expressions promoting acceptance would likely violate the policy. The deadline for compliance with the state mandate is July 31. Employees who have not complied with the new proviso by July 31 should be reminded of it and the deadline to comply, the KU letter says. They asked supervisors to contact human resources if they cant convince their employees to comply. Officials note that business cards, multi-use name badges and stationery with gender-identifying pronouns dont have to be thrown out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rather, they should be updated as production cycles and budgets allow, the letter says. KU diversity crackdown In March, the U.S. Department of Education announced that it was investigating KU and 44 other universities for race-exclusionary practices in its graduate programs. That charge stemmed from universities partnering with The Ph.d. Project, an organization that encourages students from diverse backgrounds to pursue doctoral degrees in business. A KU informational webpage about its Doctor of Philosophy in Business degree has since been scrubbed of any reference to the Ph.D. Project. The Department of Education has made no additional announcements about the status of its investigation into the universities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KU has preemptively taken measures to rein in its diversity efforts in response to mounting pressure from Republican state lawmakers. Last fall, the university consolidated three campus resource centers with a combined 150-year history of serving minority students into one new center for student engagement and shrunk the footprint of its Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. KU did not respond to a request Tuesday afternoon to provide a list of all the programs, policies, contracts, training requirements and other items that have been eliminated or rebranded in light of the new state requirements. Residents of one Los Angeles neighborhood are hosting street painting parties to make the areas crosswalks safer for pedestrians without the delays of going through the city. Jonathan Hale, a Sawtelle resident who helped organize some of the parties, told KTLAs Erin Myers on Wednesday that he wanted to protect pedestrians, especially children playing at Stoner Park. Its one thing to have things like stop signs and signs to tell cars to watch out for pedestrians, Hale said. But its another thing to actually have the infrastructure in place that alerts cars that there are people crossing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community members participated in the parties every Saturday for four weeks starting on May 24 by bringing traffic-grade paint and stencils to give the crosswalks around Stoner Park a makeover. With the community concerned about motorists driving too fast through the area, Hale decided not to go through the city after discovering how long the process could take. I have to ask the city this and this, and theres an approval process, and you have to do the budgeting, and then get a list of subcontractors, and then you have to get approval, and theres the committee Whatever you know, I just dont want to deal with all that, so I just decided to do it myself, Hale said. Community-painted crosswalks are seen near Stoner Park in Sawtelle on July 23, 2025. (KTLA) Los Angeles does have the MyLA311 website to submit requests such as this. KTLA has reached out to the city for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hale admitted that similar actions to paint crosswalks in other cities have sometimes been removed, but says he may repaint if it happens in Sawtelle. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Labour came to power with a pledge to improve Britains creaking railways, spearheaded by a headline-grabbing commitment to renationalisation. But a year on, the Government stands accused of blocking the resurrection of dozens of routes across England, most of them mothballed since the Beeching cuts of the 1960s. The decision to relaunch just one defunct train line out of dozens was announced by the Government earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In doing so, it has sparked anger in communities across the country, many of which were given hope by ministers who pledged to reconsider a fleet of reopenings, despite scrapping Boris Johnsons Restoring Your Railway programme last year. In the event, the Bristol to Portishead line was the only new service to feature on a list of more than 50 rail and road upgrades unveiled on July 8, touted by the Government as the biggest boost to Englands transport infrastructure in a generation. When asked about future reopenings last week, Lord Hendy, the rail minister, said that the projects would have to compete with other upgrades and would get no special treatment Douglas McClay, a campaigner for the restoration of passenger services on the 31-mile, freight-only Ivanhoe Line between Leicester and Burton-on-Trent, says its exclusion from the departments to-do list was a severe disappointment. Named after the historical novel by Sir Walter Scott, which was set partly in the area, the line would have provided the Midlands with a new east-west corridor and restored passenger trains to towns including Coalville, Swadlincote and Ashby de la Zouch, costing 100m in the process. I simply dont understand British Railways chairman Richard Beeching closed down thousands of train stations throughout the 1960s - Harry Benson/Getty The route was one of hundreds of branch lines and low-footfall services that fell victim to Dr Richard Beechings infamous 1960s savings plan, as the former British Railways chairman oversaw the closure of around 5,000 miles of track and almost 2,500 stations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were still holding out despite what had happened with the Restoring Your Railway fund and the message from one of the MPs on our line was that things were coming along, dont worry too much at the moment, says McClay. But this seems to close the door. I cant see anything else thats likely to appear. The irony is that our business case had been scrutinised and was, we gather, at the top of the list for reopenings and sitting on the ministers desk to be signed off when the election was called. Rebecca Smith, the Conservative MP for South West Devon, says the Governments assessment of the value created by reopening railway lines is flawed. Appearing before the House of Commons transport committee last Wednesday, Lord Hendy said proposals were considered according to their estimated impact on economic growth, employment and homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Smith told the meeting that another of the rejected lines, from Plymouth to Tavistock, would have helped address chronic transport in an area set to receive 4.4bn of defence investment that the Government says will create 25,000 jobs. They say everything has been done with a focus on jobs, [on] growth, on housing, she says. But if that is the case, the rural lines are exactly what they should be investing in. The lines already exist or the trackbed is there, so to not even give the money to assess a business case, I simply dont understand. They seem to find the money for the things they want to spend it on, like the pay rises for the train drivers. It has always felt to me like quite a political decision. There are a few things that were just scrapped because the Conservatives thought of it first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith says the Tavistock Line would have linked Plymouth with places as far as Dartmoor and followed the money being ploughed into the citys naval base. If you want to invest in these areas because theyre useful to the country, in our case for defence, youve got to think about how the people you want to house in these areas are going to get to these jobs, she says. And when youve got the beginnings of some projects that could be explored, youve got to put your money where your mouth is. Other countries throw up railways and stations way cheaper and quicker than we do. Were told it will cost a fortune and nobody questions it. She cited the success of the nearby Dartmoor Line between Exeter to Okehampton, which attracted a higher-than-expected 500,000 passengers in the two years after it reopened in 2021, as evidence of the potentially huge returns from restoring defunct routes. The reopening of the Dartmoor Line between Exeter and Okehampton (pictured) saw half a million passengers return in its first two years McClay adds that the Ivanhoe Line would also have served huge housing developments along the route that will now have to rely on single-carriageway A roads. Weve been disenfranchised The Restoring Your Railway programme, launched in 2020 with a 500m budget, attracted more than 150 applications, with around 20 earmarked for development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, only the Dartmoor Line and the Northumberland Line, linking Newcastle upon Tyne with Ashington, Bedlington and Blyth, were given the go-ahead before Rachel Reeves scrapped the scheme last July, with just 50m spent, in one of her first acts as Chancellor. The 100-mile East West Rail project between Oxford and Cambridge, which involves reopening tracks on the former Varsity Line, closed in 1968, and received 2.5bn in funding from Reeves last month, was not part of the scheme. The Bristol to Portishead line, first opened in the mid-1800s, was added to a list of 50 rail and road upgrades earlier this month - SSPL/National Railway Museum Scotland, by contrast, has added several new lines and around 70 new stations in recent years, including Britains highest-profile reopening to date the 350m, 35-mile Border Railway south of Edinburgh on the site of the former Waverley route to Carlisle. Lord Hendy said that proposals previously financed under Restoring Your Railway should be regarded as unfunded rather than cancelled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: When the prospect comes round of future funding, theyll have to be considered alongside [other projects]. What I cant say, of course, is what other demands would come up. However, Smith says the Government should provide direct answers as to which schemes have a chance of being taken up rather than give false hope to rural towns and communities. McClay says the prospects for reopenings have also been hurt by the creation of a two-tier system where areas under a mayoral authority get money to finance local projects while others have their transport priorities dictated by Westminster. He says that the Portishead route appeared to have been one such beneficiary, with the West of England mayoralty stepping in to provide financial backing for the line alongside the Government and local councils. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Northumberland route also fell within the remit of the North East metro mayor. Since the Ivanhoe Line straddles Staffordshire, Derbyshire (part of the East Midlands mayoralty), Leicestershire and the City of Leicester, it lacks a single cheerleader. McClay said: We are spread thinly across those authorities and we are not top of the agenda for any one of them. The great joy of the Restoring Your Railways scheme was that it treated all applications equally and did not require a local authority to sponsor them. Really, weve been disenfranchised. Were going to keep the home fires burning and were not going to give up, but we have to be realistic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith said she suspects that rail reopenings have slipped down the government agenda in part because they tend to provide links to market towns, when Labour is intent on directing spending at largely urban areas where its core supporters are concentrated. It depends how cynical you are, she says. I think that might play a part. It feels like if its not in the big city, theyre not interested. The DfT said that while 10bn is being spent on rail improvements across England and Wales overall, including three stations proposed under the Restoring Your Railway scheme, it has not been possible to fund every reopening scheme. A spokesman said: We have had to take difficult decisions given the difficult financial situation, but we continue to keep future funding under review. 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. Sir Keir Starmer is the worst possible Prime Minister at the most inauspicious of times. The lies, double-standards and moral blackmail fuelling our illegal immigration crisis threaten to tear this country apart, and yet Starmer stands frozen, unwilling as well as incapable of rising to the challenge. He is a cardboard cutout of a prime minister, an ideological automaton at a time when the public craves leadership, reassurance and change. If he truly wanted to defuse tensions, and if he were even a half-decent politician, Starmer would make the trip to Essex and, like de Gaulle addressing the crowd in Algiers in 1958, tell the law-abiding middle class protesters in front of the Bell Hotel in Epping that he understands them. He would order the transfer of the asylum-seekers to a better location. He would condemn extremists and agitators of all hues, far-Right as well as far-Left, and insist that all violence is intolerable. He would rebuke Essex Police, the wokest police force in the most Right-wing county, for escorting pro-migrant protestors to the Bell, stating that he opposes any notion of two-tier justice or treating one side of the debate better than the other. He would express his distaste at the booking of a four star hotel in Canary Wharf to house migrants, and demand cheaper pop-up sites be found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the real world, we must make do with Starmers platitudes and untruths. Why did his social media account claim that we will stop at nothing to tackle illegal migration when that is the very opposite of what Labour is doing? Starmer refuses to pull levers that might work: his priority is not stopping the boats but maintaining the human rights orthodoxy at any cost. Yes, Starmer would love it were something to turn up and immigration, legal and illegal, were to drop he may even get his way if Rachel Reeves bankrupts Britain but he has no desire to pro-actively do anything radical about it. The PM refuses to pull out of the ECHR or of the UN Refugee conventions, he is wedded to the obsolete principle of non-refoulement and he scrapped the Rwanda scheme. He wont consider jailing illegal arrivals. He will never take truly drastic action towards the people traffickers. This newspaper revealed last week that a High Court judge, in a case brought against the Foreign Office by an Afghan living in the UK seeking to bring relatives to Britain, that family members did not have to have a blood or legal connection to the applicant. Down that road lies madness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmers ludicrous, ECHR compliant plan for a thousands in, fifty out pilot plan with France wont work, if it is ever signed off by the EU. He tells people smugglers he will destroy your business model, piece by piece, at the very time they drop off yet more boatloads. His idea to crack down on illicit activity is to share asylum accommodation locations with food delivery services so they can take action if riders are staying there. Downing Street officials believe that Britains social fabric is fraying at the edges, and yet the best the Government can do is to demand greater integration and the restoration of trust, as if that were easy. Laughably, the Prime Minister reportedly believes that his policy to improve school attendance is already improving community relations. None of this is even close to being commensurate to the scale of the crisis. In The Vision of the Anointed: Self-congratulation as a basis for social policy, Thomas Sowell, the African-American economist, explained why politicians like Starmer lose touch with reality and end up despising their electorates. Sowell, who to her credit Kemi Badenoch often cites approvingly, divides the world into groups: the anointed elites, those we now call the woke Blob, ego-crazed idiot-savants who believe that simplistic social engineering can solve all of the worlds problems, and followers of the tragic vision, who have the humility to understand the complexities and trade-offs inherent to human societies. The anointed include Labour, the Corbynites/Greens, Lib Dems and the many wet Tories. Followers of the tragic vision include Reform, sensible Tories (including Suella Braverman, Robert Jenrick and Jacob Rees-Mogg) and the 53 per cent of the public who tell YouGov that immigration is one of the most important issues facing Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The anointed are sure they know best, and dont react well when their grand schemes to save humanity the ECHR, the Human Rights Act or open borders go wrong. Much of this is narcissism: these elites dont care as much about the downtrodden as they do about feeling good about themselves. The anointed, Sowell explained, operate by picking a mascot, a marginalised group, to champion, such as small boat migrants, while simultaneously demonising a target, such as ordinary normies who believe immigration has gone too far. The anointed are above all dogmatic. Their beliefs are not susceptible to auto-correction, to Popperian falsification, to feedback from reality: they simply dismiss all contrary empirical evidence. They consider themselves to be well-intentioned and morally superior, so any criticism of their axioms must be dismissed as false consciousness, prima facie evidence of racism. So deranged, so deluded are these elites that they cannot conceive that their critics could genuinely, for non-xenophobic reasons, worry about filling hotels in residential areas with young men with no passports and no real known identity, and the risk this could pose to young girls. They cant accept that voters might genuinely be affected by housing and public services shortages exacerbated by mass migration (in a world of sluggish supply), and not be merely driven by prejudice. They cannot understand that putting up migrants in costly hotels, at a time when taxes are at record highs, is insulting to millions. They fail to comprehend why, in this context, the fact that a school banned a 12-year old girl from wearing a Union Flag dress on Culture Celebration Day, could be considered a provocation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer and Labour will never change, and neither will the rest of the anointed class. The only answer is to replace them. I have a feeling that the next election will be called sooner than many believe. 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 Akash Sriram and Abhirup Roy (Reuters) -Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk said on Wednesday that U.S. government cuts in support for electric vehicle makers could lead to a "few rough quarters" for the company before a wave of revenue from self-driving software and services begins late next year. Shares fell nearly 5% after Musk responded on a quarterly results conference call to questions about new U.S. government policies under President Donald Trump. Musk's electric vehicle maker posted the worst quarterly sales decline in more than a decade and profit that missed Wall Street targets, but its profit margin on making cars was better than many feared. Musk is pursuing autonomous driving to power privately owned vehicles as well as robotaxis that it plans to put into production next year. In the meantime, it is working on a new, cheaper car, though Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja said that production would ramp up next quarter, slower than initially expected. It produced some initial units by the end of June. The company did not provide an update on its full-year deliveries forecast, citing the economy and timing of the new car rollout. "Tesla's disappointing results aren't surprising given the rocky road it's traveled recently," said eMarketer analyst Jacob Bourne. "A truly affordable model will hit the bullseye in terms of boosting sales if Tesla can effectively position it right without detracting from its higher-priced models." The second straight quarterly revenue drop, with a 12% fall, comes despite the launch of a refreshed version of its best-selling Model Y SUV that investors had hoped would help revive demand. A 51% dive in sales of automotive regulatory credits, which other automakers who have difficulty complying with government emissions rules buy from Tesla, also hurt revenue and profit. Revenue fell to $22.5 billion for the April-June quarter from $25.50 billion a year earlier, slightly behind analyst targets compiled by LSEG. Adjusted profit per share of 40 cents lagged the Wall Street consensus. The automotive gross margin, which excludes regulatory credits, was 14.96%, above Wall Street estimates, helped in part by lower cost per vehicle. Pricing and margins are important as Tesla wrestles with demand and faces falling government support. Tesla global deliveries dropped 13.5% in the second quarter, and the U.S. government later this year is cutting $7,500 tax credits for EV buyers. "We probably could have a few rough quarters," Musk said, when asked about the credits. "I'm not saying we will, but we could - you know, Q4, Q1, maybe Q2, but once you get to autonomy at scale in the second half of next year, certainly by the end of next year, I think I'd be surprised if Tesla's economics are not very compelling." Children play and learn at a downtown preschool in St. Louis, Missouri on Nov. 25, 2023. (Photo by Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent) A state grant program to provide free preschool to kids from low-income families sent more than a million dollars in potentially wasteful payments to preschool providers between 2021 and 2024, a new report from the Oregon Secretary of States Office finds. The report published Wednesday was spurred by a tip to the Secretary of State Offices Government Accountability Hotline. Auditors determined the cause of the misappropriated funds was inadequate oversight at the Oregon Department of Education and the Department of Early Learning and Care that administered the grants over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auditors found $1.4 million in grant payments that should likely not have gone to providers who failed to meet minimum enrollment requirements, and to some providers during months when they were not open. It also found $1.5 million paid to one provider, who repeatedly submitted late expense reports over the four years studied. Because that recipient provided the services required to receive the grant, the auditors did not deem this as waste but flagged the expense reporting for poor agency oversight. Alyssa Chatterjee, director of the Department of Early Learning and Care, wrote to the Secretary of States Office in response to the report that her agency has for years not received adequate funding to hire oversight staff. Lawmakers cut $45 million from the agencys budget for the two years beginning July 1. The $1.4 million of misappropriated grant money is less 1% of the programs more than $200 million biennial budget. It could have been used to provide child care for roughly 100 more kids, according to the auditors. More than 200 preschool programs in Oregon receive funding through the program to serve more than 5,300 kids, according to data from the early learning department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accountability for Preschool Promise and maximizing that program is about doing right by our kids. Oregonians are depending on us to step up and take action, Oregons secretary of state, Tobias Read, said in a news release. The promise The nearly 10-year-old Preschool Promise program provides free preschool for kids ages 3 and 4 from low-income households. That means kids who qualify come from two-member households where earnings are $40,880 or less and four-member households where earnings are $62,400 or less. Preschool providers participating in the program including private and home-based preschools get grant funding from the Department of Early Learning and Care and are expected to maintain a minimum percentage of enrollment to receive the money. They must also provide the same number of school hours annually as a kindergarten. The report primary focus was on grants awarded between late 2021 and early 2023, when the program was being managed by the Oregon Department of Education. In July 2023, it officially moved to the newly formed Department of Early Learning and Care, and the new managers of that agency took steps to strengthen the programs controls, according to the Secretary of States Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, auditors found that between 2021 and 2024, nearly $700,000 worth of grants went to providers who did not meet the obligation to uphold the minimum enrollment requirements. One provider identified received more than $300,000 of grant funding over two years to support 46 kids from low-income households, but enrolled just two. More than half a million dollars went to providers who committed to expanding their programs even though their enrollment levels continued to remain low, and $150,000 in grants went to sites during months when they werent open. Making changes Auditors recommended far greater oversight of the grant program, including more agency staff reviewing monthly and quarterly reports, enforcing penalties when providers submit poorly done or late paperwork and training providers to submit required reports. My team and I will closely follow progress on these recommendations because Preschool Promise can and must do more for Oregon families, Read said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chatterjee, the early learning departments director, blamed a lack of adequate state funding and staff to properly administer the program, which doubled in size after 2019. The $45 million the Legislature voted to cut from the agencys budget cuts funding for four programs, including Preschool Promise, by 10%. Under that budget, Chatterjee said will be able to hire just one additional person for quality assurance. While this is an important step, one position is not adequate to fully monitor a statewide, mixed-delivery, early learning system with braided funding streams. Correction: the report was previously characterized as an audit, which is a technically different product, according to the Secretary of States Office. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX To listen to David Lammy being interviewed by the BBC, it is as though the Islamist death cult known as Hamas bears absolutely no responsibility for the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. In the parallel universe occupied by our Foreign Secretary, it is seemingly not Hamas that started the war in Gaza by carrying out the worst massacre in Israels history or bears responsibility for failing to agree a lasting ceasefire. It is not the terrorists who are to be blamed for disrupting the aid supply lines that are essential to preventing a humanitarian disaster. Instead, Lammy believes that the enduring catastrophe that has engulfed Gaza since the October 7 attacks in 2023 is the fault of the Israeli government and prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commenting after the UK had joined 27 other countries, including Canada, France and Australia, in issuing a statement condemning Israel for depriving Palestinians in Gaza of their human dignity, Lammys hyperbole knew no bounds as he declared he was sickened, appalled by Israels conduct and its grotesque targeting of starving Palestinians. Lamenting the fact that the UK had neither the power nor influence to end the conflict, he warned he was prepared to impose further sanctions against Israel if hostilities did not end soon. Throughout this seemingly endless anti-Israel diatribe on the BBC, at no point did Lammy make any reference to Hamas, and the pernicious role the group has played in wilfully disrupting aid supplies to Palestinian civilians in Gaza. There was no condemnation of the campaign of tyranny Hamas continues to exercise over Gazas civilian population, nor any mention of freezing the assets of the wealthy Hamas terrorist masterminds holed up in Qatar. This is despite mounting evidence that the Iranian-backed terrorist group is deliberately exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the enclave for its own propaganda purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas has been accused of targeting Palestinian civilians trying to obtain food and medical supplies provided by the US-sponsored Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. This is an aid organisation set up as an alternative to the UN-sponsored UNWRA, whose humanitarian efforts have been compromised by their links to Hamas. Videos are circulating online showing Hamas terrorists rounding up recipients of US aid, with some of them being tortured and killed. Meanwhile Israeli officials have released evidence that suggests that, far from blocking supplies, Israel has allowed 950 trucks to cross into Gaza to deliver aid, and the reason it has not been distributed is because too many of the UN-sponsored aid agencies are too busy criticising the Israelis to bother collecting it. In an active war zone like Gaza it is difficult to verify these conflicting narratives. But, at the very least, it is incumbent on the UK and other Western governments to try to bring some semblance of balance and proportion to highly inflammatory allegations, such as the claim that Israel is deliberately causing mass starvation among Palestinian civilians. This is clearly beyond Lammys diplomatic skill set, with the Foreign Secretary apparently more interested in virtue signalling to Labours hard-Left anti-Israel lobby than making any coherent effort to address the broader, and more complex, challenges raised by the Gaza crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By doing so, he is essentially propagating the same twisted anti-Israel agenda promoted by supporters of Palestine Action, the direct action group that Lammy and his ministerial colleagues have just proscribed as a terrorist organisation. No wonder the Israelis have responded to the latest international condemnation of their actions by Lammy and Co as being disconnected from reality. If Britain and its co-signatories are genuinely committed to an unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as the statement insists, then they should concentrate their efforts on forcing Hamas and its backers in Iran to acknowledge the inevitable, and accept that the terrorist organisations continued presence in Gaza must end. One of the biggest obstacles to the Trump administrations attempts to broker a lasting ceasefire in Gaza has been Hamass determination to maintain operations in Gaza, irrespective of the scale of the defeat they suffer at the hands of the Israelis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Hamas emerges from the conflict with just a fraction of its pre-war terrorist infrastructure intact, it will hail the achievement as a major victory. Israel, like any other country that has suffered atrocities on the scale committed on October 7, insists there will be no peace in Gaza so long as Hamas remains an active presence in the enclave. Allowing Hamas to retain any vestige of influence in the territory would simply place the Israeli people at risk of suffering yet another cataclysmic terrorist attack, which is why Netanyahu is so insistent that there can be no peace in Gaza so long as Hamas remains. The key to implementing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza is not indulging in more, utterly pointless, anti-Israel Lammyesque stunts. It is forcing Hamas and its backers that its reign of terror in the enclave is well and truly over. 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. MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (WTNH) Gov. Ned Lamont joined state leaders in Middletown to ceremonially sign two bills promoting maternal healthcare into law. The two bills were passed during this years legislative session, which ended in June. Both direct the state government to develop new strategies to expand access to maternal healthcare especially for those in low-income and historically-disadvantaged communities. State grant hopes to preserve outdoor spaces across Connecticut Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are really looking to provide more access and quality care, State Rep. Kai Belton, a Middletown Democrat who leads the legislatures Black Maternal & Infant Health Caucus, said. Among the priorities of the new laws: increasing the number of birthing hospitals, providing educational resources to expecting fathers and exploring ways to expand the services delivered by trained doulas. We need more doulas! said Lamont. I love that youre able to step up. Make it easier to be a doula! Get your friends to be a doula! The maternal healthcare legislation won approval with nearly unanimous support on both sides of the aisle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans proudly supported these important policy investments in maternal health and family strength, State Rep. Vincent Candelora, the leader of the GOP in the state House, said. Bipartisan support for efforts to help families looking to have children is not unique to Connecticut. We hope this bipartisan success will inspire continued collaboration to protect and support Connecticut families, particularly those in underserved communities, Candelora added. At the national level, many prominent conservative figures have voiced support for an ideology known as pronatalism which generally supports policies and cultural attitudes that promote higher birthrates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let me say very simply: I want more babies in the United States of America, Vice President JD Vance said in January at the annual March for Life in Washington D.C. Connecticut officials discuss Medicaid changes from President Trumps big, beautiful bill As a senator, Vance supported a dramatic expansion of the child tax credit and suggested that people without children should pay more taxes than parents. As vice president, Vance helped pass the sweeping GOP Big, Beautiful tax and spending bill which included a much more modest increase to the child tax credit. A bipartisan group of senators including Kirsten Gillibrand of New York and Josh Hawley of Missouri have introduced legislation to make childbirth free for families with private insurance. Though the two parties diverge sharply on most social welfare policies like the nearly $1 trillion that will be cut from government health insurance programs under the GOPs Big, Beautiful 10-year spending plan there appears to be a shared desire for higher birthrates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Addressing the grandson of Rep. Belton, Gov. Lamont added a personal touch to that desire. Glad you have a little sister, Lamont said. Now tell mom and dad youd like a little brother. Keep going. Dont stop now! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON BOROUGH, Pa. (WHTM) A fire department based out of Lancaster County has launched a multi-million-dollar fundraising campaign to construct a new firehouse. According to Blue Rock Fire Rescue, they recently launched a fundraising campaign to raise $10 million for a new state-of-the-art firehouse, which they say will help them better serve Manor Township and Millersville Borough. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat The new Blue Rock Fire Rescue facility would replace aging stations in Highville and Washington Borough. The new station would improve emergency response times and provide modern training and living spaces for the more than 100 volunteer firefighters. This isnt just about bricks and mortarits about ensuring our volunteers have the resources to keep our neighbors safe for generations to come, Fire Commissioner Duane Hagelgans said. Blue Rock Fire Rescue says their volunteers respond to more than 700 calls annually across 55 square miles, which includes six miles along the Susquehanna River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thus far, the new campaign has raised $1 million in donations the fire department is now calling on residents, businesses, and community partners to help make the new Firehouse project a reality. Our current stations werent built for the demands of modern firefighting, said Andrew Slaymaker, a volunteer firefighter with Blue Rock. This new firehouse will give us the tools and training space we need to protect the people we care about mostour neighbors. To support the campaign, visit Blue Rock Fire Rescues website. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. Police on Wednesday identified the man shot by officers in Northridge over the weekend and revealed that he had pointed a firearm at them while trying to run away. It was not immediately clear after the Sunday evening incident on the 9300 block of Corbin Avenue what prompted officers to open fire or if a weapon had been recovered. Police were initially called to the 20000 block of Prairie Street in nearby Chatsworth on an assault with a deadly weapon call around 7:45 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect, identified in Wednesdays news release as 28-year-old Romario Iraheta, was spotted by a Los Angeles Police Department air unit attempting to flee on a skateboard. Iraheta continued to flee, and a foot pursuit ensued, during which he pointed a firearm at officers, resulting in an Officer-Involved Shooting (OIS), the news release stated. A portion of the incident caught on a cellphone camera showed officers chasing the suspect on foot through the parking lot of a strip mall. One of the officers is seen opening fire as the man runs for cover in between parked vehicles toward the rear of a Korean barbecue restaurant. L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (Golden State Haunts) L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (Golden State Haunts) L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (Golden State Haunts) L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (Golden State Haunts) L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (Golden State Haunts) L.A. police opened fire on a man suspected of being armed as he attempted run away from them in Northridge on July 20, 2025. (KTLA) Iraheta was struck by gunfire but continued to run, stopping a short time later, and was taken into custody, police said Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iraheta was hospitalized in stable condition for treatment and was absentee booked for assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer with a firearm, the news release stated. Police said that a black steel handgun, which was loaded with a high-capacity magazine and live rounds, was recovered and booked as 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 KTLA. A Laredo man will spend more than five years behind bars after pleading guilty to smuggling over 100 illegal aliens, 13 of them children, as part of a dangerous trafficking operation that could have ended in tragedy. Juan Manuel Aguirre, 49, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after Judge Keith Ellison reviewed his history of repeated human smuggling offenses and the risks posed to those he packed inside the trailer, according to a July 22, 2025, press release. On December 2, 2024, federal authorities saw individuals being loaded into a white trailer from a Laredo warehouse. When officers pulled the truck over, which Aguirre was driving, they found 101 people inside: men, women, and children as young as 13, crammed into a locked trailer with no ventilation. Many reported difficulty breathing and said they feared for their lives. Allegedly, the doors even had to be pried open with a bolt cutter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The illegal aliens, who came from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Cuba, were being transported in what prosecutors described as a sealed, locked, dark, and unventilated trailer conditions that could have quickly turned fatal. Human smuggling is an incredibly dangerous enterprise, and it requires the trafficker to care absolutely nothing about the lives and safety of those they transport, said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei in a recent statement. Fortunately, there were no deaths in this case, but the underlying facts indicate that several of those transported had difficulty breathing and feared for their life. The Southern District of Texas will make sure that all human smugglers pay a serious price for their callousness. Aguirre pleaded guilty to the smuggling conspiracy earlier this year on February 6, and will remain in custody until he is ultimately transferred to a federal Prison facility. However, a very similar case recently resulted in the deaths of dozens of people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two men involved in a horrific illegal alien smuggling operation that left 53 people dead in a sweltering tractor-trailer were sentenced in a separate case last month, as previously reported by DX. Felipe Orduna-Torres, 30, described as the ringleader, received a life sentence, while his co-conspirator, 55-year-old Armando Gonzales-Ortega, was sentenced to 83 years. Both men were also fined $250,000. The tragedy unfolded on June 27, 2022, when smugglers abandoned a trailer in San Antonio packed with 64 illegal aliens, including eight children and a pregnant woman. The trailers cooling system wasnt working, and by the time it was opened, 48 people had already died. Sixteen were rushed to hospitals, but five more died shortly after. UPDATE: Savannah Aguilar has been found and Alexander Madrid has been arrested, according to the Las Cruces Police Department. LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KTSM) The Las Cruces Police Department is asking for the publics help in finding a missing 26-year-old woman and a man who they say is wanted in connection with her disappearance on Wednesday morning, July 23, in Las Cruces. New Mexico State Police said Savannah Aguilar, 26, was last seen around 7 a.m. on July 23 on Avis Road. Her clothing description is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aguilar is described as 5-foot-2 inches tall, weighs 155 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes, according to State Police. Additionally, State Police said Alexander Madrid is wanted in connection with a kidnapping that occurred at the same time as Aguilars disappearance. He is considered to be armed and dangerous. If you have any information on their whereabouts, call Las Cruces Police at (575) 526-0795. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Donald Trump's crackdown on immigration is damaging Las Vegas's famous tourist industry and spooking the workers who keep it running, according to union and industry leaders. An estimated 25 percent of all Nevada workers were born abroad, compared to 17 percent in America as a whole. Immigrant workers are particularly dominant in the tourism and hospitality industries, with 74 percent of hotel housekeepers born overseas, and 51 percent of restaurant line cooks. But now local activists say that Immigration and Custom Enforcement officers are detaining around 40 percent more people per day in South Nevada than it did last year, despite 69 percent of them having no criminal convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ted Pappageorge, secretary treasurer of the local chapter of the Culinary Workers Union, told Fox 5 Vegas that the surge in detentions has sown fear throughout the city's hospitality sector. "This industry cannot function without immigrant workers," he warned. Michael Kagan, director of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Immigration Clinic, likewise said calls to his group had "more than tripled" and that staff "can't keep up". "This kind of fear is just so incredibly destructive to our neighbors to our community, to our economy," he told Fox 5. A case in point is Broadacres Marketplace, a popular open-air market in north Las Vegas, which has been closed since June 21 in order to protect its vendors and customers from immigration raids. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reported that visitors to Las Vegas dropped by 6.5 percent in May compared to the same month in 2024, with hotels making 5.7 percent less money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is a mirror of the situation across the USA, where foreign tourist spending is projected to fall by 7 percent this year due in part to travelers' fears about being detained or turned away at the border. The Convention and Visitors Authority did not attribute Sin Citys shortfall to immigration fears specifically, instead citing overall economic gloom due to Trump's tariffs. "At the core of what we think is happening right now is that consumer confidence is down pretty significantly," said Authority CEO Steve Hill in May. People have protested across the country about the Trump administrations hardline border policies (AFP/Getty) Nevertheless, Pappageorge said visits from Canadian and Mexican customers specifically had "fallen off a cliff", while Latino visitors are "fearful and nervous". "When that happens, that means that our visitation is down and companies are looking at potential layoffs. Our members are quite nervous about that" he said. The Trump administration has specifically targeted hotels, restaurants, and farms for immigration raids as it seeks to fulfill Trump's campaign promise of "mass deportations". LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A Las Vegas woman is heartbroken after she said her beloved dog, Jordan, was stolen right outside her home. The theft happened at the Vizcaya Apartments, located near the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Rainbow Boulevard. In the Ring doorbell footage shared by the dogs owner, a person riding a bicycle is seen approaching the front of the condo, grabbing the dog, and riding off all within seconds. I just hope that hes ok. I hope hes in someones air conditioning and that someone sees this and knows he has a family, said Danielle Luber, whose dog was stolen outside of her condo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan, the 12-year-old male Shitzu, has been part of her family for years. She told 8 News Now that hes not just a pet, hes a companion, a comfort, and her best friend. Since the incident, she has filed a police report with Las Vegas Metro and shared the doorbell video on social media in hopes of identifying the person responsible and recovering her dog. Luber has also been passing out flyers in the area of Tropicana Avenue and Rainbow Boulevard in hopes of bringing Jordan back home. Im not mad at all I just want Jordan back no questions asked. I have a cash reward, and I will meet her if she still has him and give her the money with no charges. I dont care, I just want my dog back, Luber said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, no suspects have been identified. The woman is urging anyone who recognizes the individual in the video or has seen Jordan to contact police or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. If you have information that could help locate Jordan or identify the suspect, youre urged to contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department at 702-828-3111 or Luber directly at 618-581-5003. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Authorities are refuting claims made by a construction company executive who posted social media videos alleging that squatters are taking over burned-out homes and vacant lots following the January wildfires. Luke Melchior of Melchior Construction has uploaded numerous videos to his Instagram on the matter, including one posted on Monday that appears to show a trailer set up on a vacant lot in a wildfire zone. Squatters are overtaking vacant lots that burned downthis guy set up a whole campsite, Melchior said in the video. I guess he actually went down to the DMV and listed this [lot] as the address on his drivers licenseand the property owner cant get them off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police even showed up, and they said they couldnt do anything about itit has to go to the courts, Melchior continued. He then panned the camera to show that an RV had been set up across the street from the lot that had been allegedly taken over by a squatter. If youre in Pacific Palisades or Altadena, Id get some security fencing up right away, Melchior said in the video, which garnered more than 18,000 likes in 36 hours. Or you might lose your property to a vagrant. A construction company head who has posted videos on social media surrounding squatters taking over burned-out homes and vacant lots in the wake of the January wildfires is being debunked by authorities. (IG/@luke.melchior) A construction company head who has posted videos on social media surrounding squatters taking over burned-out homes and vacant lots in the wake of the January wildfires is being debunked by authorities. (IG/@luke.melchior) On Tuesday, Melchior posted a follow-up video with his recommendations on how to keep squatters off vacant lots in fire zones and enforce trespassing violations. In the video, he said that squatters can go to the DMV and put down the address of a vacant lot with no proof of residency, essentially tying the hands of the authorities who could kick them off right away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, California has made it really easy for these guysyou dont even need to have proof of residence to put an address on your drivers license, Melchior said. Once that happens, or say they forge a lease, it ties the hands of the police department, and they are unable to do anything. It has to filter through the court system. About two hours later, Melchior uploaded another video in which he said he flagged down a L.A. County Sheriffs Department deputy patrolling the Altadena fire zone, and the deputy told him that they had been instructed to look out for squatters. They are out here [heavily] patrolling, and he said they got an order this morning, along with their regular fire patrol, to be looking around for people who might be squatting, he said. And LAPD is doing the same thing so these posts work. Indeed, Melchiors posts did gain some traction, as one of his videos was featured on Fox News Jesse Watters Primetime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also spoke to the Daily Mail, telling the outlet that some residents had asked him for help while he and his crew were working on a property in the Altadena fire zone. They informed us that some squatters had moved down the street, Melchior told the Daily Mail. They were asking us to basically tell the squatters, Hey, were getting ready to demo this property. You gotta get off of it. But they wouldnt leave. A construction company head who has posted videos on social media surrounding squatters taking over burned-out homes and vacant lots in the wake of the January wildfires is being debunked by authorities. (IG/@luke.melchior) A construction company head who has posted videos on social media surrounding squatters taking over burned-out homes and vacant lots in the wake of the January wildfires is being debunked by authorities. (IG/@luke.melchior) While Melchiors videos did appear to show an encampment on a vacant lot in the fire zone, his claims were not immediately verified by law enforcement officials. KTLA reached out to LASD for more information on the claims, and a spokesperson with the Sheriffs Departments Altadena station confirmed Wednesday morning that the story of a squatter using a sneaky DMV trick to move in, as reported by the Daily Mail, was inaccurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is all due to a civil disputefamily fighting over property, the spokesperson said. There is no squatting problem. There will be a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Altadena library for concerned residents to have their questions answered. Officials will be addressing inquiries surrounding the squatter story, said by LASD to be false. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. More than 100 charity and human rights groups say Israels blockade and ongoing military offensive are pushing Palestinians in the Gaza Strip toward starvation. Israeli strikes meanwhile killed another 21 people overnight and into Wednesday, according to local health officials. The Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected the groups' criticism and accused them of echoing Hamas propaganda. The Trump administrations Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff was set to meet with a senior Israeli official about ceasefire talks, a sign that lower-level negotiations that have dragged on for weeks could be approaching a breakthrough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels war in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack, has killed more than 59,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Its count doesnt distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. Here is the latest: European diplomats say EU deal with Israel over Gaza aid is falling short Israel is far behind on its commitments under the new deal with the European Union, frustrating many within the 27-nation bloc, three European diplomats said Wednesday. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only 132 aid trucks and 80-120,000 liters of fuel have gotten into Gaza in the week since the deal was reached, two of the diplomats said. Member states are urging the EU to pressure Israel to allow more aid. An internal EU report seen by The Associated Press highlighted concerns that there is still no tangible increase, with important stocks of relief items stuck and piling up at the borders. Details of agreement remain murky, even to EU nations. By Sam McNeil in Jerusalem Palestinian Authority says a teen is killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank The Palestinian Authoritys Health Ministry says a 14-year-old Palestinian was shot dead by Israeli forces near Jenin in the northern West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ibrahim Hamran is the second teen to have been killed by Israeli forces in as many days. The ministry said Ibrahim Nasser, 16, was killed near Jenin on Tuesday. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Violence has surged in the Israeli-occupied West Bank during the war in Gaza. White House says Mideast envoy is headed to Europe White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that Witkoff would meet with key leaders from the Middle East to discuss the ceasefire proposal and release of hostages. We want this ceasefire to happen as soon as possible and we want these hostages to be released, Leavitt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN says the agency helping Palestinian refugees known UNRWA will soon run out of money Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari told the U.N. Security Council that current forecasts show insufficient funds to sustain operations beyond 2025. UNRWA was established in 1949 to aid Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The agency provides health and education services to around 2.5 million Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and east Jerusalem, and helps 3 million more in Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric urges donors to contribute, emphasizing the agencys critical role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN defends humanitarian agencys 'professionalism and impartial work in Gaza U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric says Israels actions against the Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs will only hinder efforts to held Palestinians facing hunger and displacement. Earlier, Israels U.N. ambassador accused OCHA of bias and claimed some staff are linked to Hamas. He also demanded a retraction of the agency head's statement allegedly accusing Israel of genocide. Dujarric clarified that U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher never made such a statement, and said the U.N. would investigate any evidence Israel provides regarding alleged Hamas affiliations among U.N. staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli strike in central Gaza kills at least 8 and wounds 57 Awda Hospital, which received the casualties, said the strike hit a densely populated part of the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp. Greta Thunberg accuses Israel of genocide and starving Palestinians in Gaza The climate campaigner spoke Wednesday at a small rally in the main square of Albanias capital, Tirana. If watching children at being systematically starved, over two million people being systematically starved by Israel, is not enough to motivate you to get out of the couch, then what is it going to take? Thunberg said. She said the international community is complicit due to its silence regarding Israels wartime conduct, and called for continuing worldwide protests for a free Palestine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military detained Thunberg and 11 other activists last month on board Gaza-bound aid ship that aimed to break Israels blockade. Muslim authority removes post accusing Israel of genocide Gaza Egypts Al-Azhar, a leading authority in Sunni Islam, has deleted a lengthy online post in which it accused Israel of starving Gaza and committing a full-scale genocide. It said that it had courageously removed the post to avoid jeopardizing ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Political and religious authorities across the Arab and Muslim world have condemned Israels wartime conduct. Egypt, a close U.S. ally that made peace with Israel decades ago, has served as a mediator in long-running ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A case has been brought before the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide, and rights groups have lodged similar allegations. Israel vehemently rejects the accusation, calling it a blood libel. UN says war in Gaza is catastrophic for new mothers and babies The United Nations agency for reproductive health says new data shows a major decline in births and a rise in maternal deaths in the Gaza Strip. UNFPA says 17,000 births were recorded in the first half of this year, down 41% from the corresponding period in 2022. It also showed 220 stillbirths, more than 20 times the number recorded three years ago, before the Israel-Hamas war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It says 33% of babies around 5,560 were born prematurely, underweight or required intensive care. The scale of suffering for new mothers and their babies in Gaza is beyond comprehension, said Laila Baker, Regional Director for the Arab States at UNFPA. The war has gutted Gazas health system, with several hospitals having shut down or reduced their operations because of Israeli raids and lack of medical supplies. ___ This item has been corrected to show that the figure of 220 refers to stillbirths, not maternal deaths, after UNFPA corrected its statement. Israels parliament backs symbolic motion to annex the West Bank Knesset lawmakers voted 71-13 in favor of the measure, which calls for applying Israeli sovereignty to Judea, Samaria and the Jordan Valley, the biblical terms for the area. The motion, advanced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition, is declarative and has no direct legal implications, although it could place the issue of annexation on the agenda of future debates in the parliament. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war, along with the Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem. The Palestinians want all three for a future state. Some 3 million Palestinians and over 500,000 Jewish settlers live in the West Bank. Annexation of the West Bank could make it impossible to create a viable Palestinian state alongside Israel, which is seen internationally as the only realistic way to resolve the conflict. Last year, the Israeli parliament approved a similar symbolic motion declaring opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israel's ambassador accuses UN humanitarian agency of bias Israel has accused the United Nations' humanitarian agency of bias and defamation in Gaza and announced new actions Israels U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday that hundreds of employees of the Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, known as OCHA, are now undergoing security vetting. He claimed Israel has uncovered clear evidence of Hamas affiliations within OCHAs ranks and said key employees will not have their permits renewed, and international staff will have their visas cut to just one month. Danon accused UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher of abandoning his sacred responsibility to act without bias and demanded that he retract his statement that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. He said Jonathan Whittall, who heads OCHA in the Palestinian territories, must leave Israel by July 29 because of alleged bias against Israel. OCHA spokeswoman Eri Kaneko said: Any reduction of our own staff will stifle our already curtailed efforts to reach civilians across Gaza in urgent need of life-saving humanitarian aid. WHO warns Gaza nears starvation as malnutrition spikes The head of the World Health Organization warned that over 2 million people in Gaza face starvation, citing a deadly surge in malnutrition and related diseases. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said acute malnutrition centers in Gaza are full of patients, but lack adequate supplies. He said that rates of acute malnutrition exceed 10% and that among pregnant and breastfeeding women, more than 20% are malnourished, often severely. The hunger crisis is being accelerated by the collapse of aid pipelines, Tedros said, adding that 95% of households in Gaza face severe water shortages. Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, the WHO representative for Occupied Palestinian Territories, said there were more than 30,000 children under 5 with acute malnutrition in Gaza so far this year, and that there had been 21 deaths. He noted that many of the U.N. health agencys supplies were destroyed after its main warehouse was destroyed during attacks in Deir al-Balah on Sunday. Israel says Gaza starvation warnings are propaganda Israels Foreign Ministry accused the groups of echoing Hamas propaganda. It said it has allowed around 4,500 aid trucks to enter Gaza since lifting a complete blockade in May, and that more than 700 are waiting to be picked up and distributed by the United Nations. Thats an average of around 70 trucks a day, the lowest rate of the war and far below the 500-600 trucks a day the U.N. says are needed, and which entered during a six-week ceasefire earlier this year. The U.N. says it has struggled to deliver aid inside Gaza because of Israeli military restrictions, ongoing fighting, and a breakdown of law and order. In the letter issued Wednesday, 115 human rights and charity groups said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. Israeli official to meet US envoy in Rome An official familiar with ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas said a top adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ron Dermer, was traveling to Rome to meet U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff on Thursday to discuss the state of the talks. The official spoke Wednesday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the sensitive negotiations. U.S. officials said Witkoff planned to head to Europe this week. The U.S. State Department spokesperson said he was headed to the Middle East in a sign that momentum may be building toward a deal. By Tia Goldenberg in Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli military says Gaza church was struck accidentally The Holy Family Church in Gaza City was struck last week by an Israeli shell, an attack that killed three, wounded 10 and damaged the churchs compound. The military said an internal inquiry found the church was hit after an unintentional deviation of munitions. The strike drew condemnation from Pope Leo XIV and U.S. President Donald Trump, and prompted statements of regret from Israel. Holy Family is the only Catholic church in Gaza. Top church leaders from the Holy Land visited the site a day after the incident and said they encountered a Gaza almost totally destroyed. Houthi attacks on Red Sea vessels are war crimes, rights group says The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen attacked two ships, the Magic Seas and the Eternity C, on July 6 and 9, killing some of their crew and detaining others, Human Rights Watch said in a statement. The rebels have been launching missile and drone attacks against commercial and military ships in the region in what the groups leadership has described as an effort to end Israels offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. HRW, however, said the Houthis attacks on the two vessels violates the laws of war applicable to the armed conflict between the Houthis and Israel. The Houthis have sought to justify unlawful attacks by pointing to Israeli violations against Palestinians, said Niku Jafarnia, HRWs Yemen and Bahrain researcher. Jafarnia called for the rebels to end all attacks on ships that dont take part in the Israeli-Hamas war and immediately release detained crew members. Detention of a senior Gaza health official is extended Dr. Marwan al-Hams, acting director of Gazas field hospitals and the Health Ministrys spokesman, was detained by Israeli soldiers earlier this week in the Palestinian territory. Alaa al-Sakafi, head of Addameer, a Palestinian rights group, told The Associated Press on Wednesday that lawyers have not been allowed to see al-Hams. His detention in a southern Israel prison was extended until the end of the month, al-Sakafi said. He said al-Hams suffered from a gunshot wound in his leg, which he sustained during his detention in Gazas southern city of Rafah on Monday. Israel has not commented on al-Hams detention. Israeli forces deepening activity in Gaza City The Israeli military said in a statement Wednesday that forces were operating in Gaza City, as well as in northern Gaza. It said without elaborating that in Jabaliya, an area hard-hit in multiple rounds of fighting, an air strike killed a number of Hamas militants. Troops struck roughly 120 targets throughout Gaza over the past day, including militant cells, tunnels and booby-trapped structures, among others, the military said. Overnight strikes kill at least 21 More than half of those killed were women and children, health authorities said. One Israeli strike hit a house Tuesday in the northwestern side of Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to the Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The dead included six children and two women, according to the Health Ministry's casualty list. Another strike hit an apartment in the Tal al-Hawa area in northern Gaza, killing at least six people. Among the dead were three children and two women, including one who was pregnant. Eight others were wounded, the ministry said. A third strike hit a tent in the Naser neighborhood in Gaza City late Tuesday and killed three children, Shifa Hospital said. The Israeli military said it struck an Islamic Jihad militant in the strike that killed 12, saying the incident was under review because of reports of civilian casualties. It had no immediate comment about the other strikes. Israel blames Hamas for civilian casualties because the militants operate from populated areas. Human rights groups and charities demand more Gaza aid In the letter issued Wednesday, 115 human rights and charity groups warned of a dire situation pushing more people toward starvation. They said they were watching their own colleagues, as well as the Palestinians they serve, waste away. The letter slammed Israel for what it said were restrictions on aid into the war-ravaged territory. It lamented massacres at food distribution points, which have seen chaos and violence in recent weeks as desperation has risen. The government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death, the letter said. The letter called for aid to be scaled up as well as for a ceasefire. ` Israel says that it has allowed the entry of thousands of trucks since May and blames aid groups for not consistently delivering goods. (NewsNation) The Pentagon announced plans to expand its search for defense contractors to aid in developing the multilayered missile defense system known as the Golden Dome, sources told Reuters. President Donald Trump announced ambitious plans for the creation of a complex military defense system similar to Israels Iron Dome back in January. The project is expected to cost a whopping $175 billion. Trump has said he aims to finish the project in the next three years by the end of his term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obama spokesperson on Trumps claims of treason: Ridiculous The Golden Dome is President Trumps bold vision to build a layered defense of the Homeland to provide for the common defense of the American People against ballistic, hypersonic, advanced cruise missiles, and other next-generation aerial attacks from near-peer and rogue nations, according to a press release from the Department of Defense. The project will provide ground and air defense systems, utilizing satellites with missile-detecting and intercepting capabilities. The project takes inspiration from Israels Iron Dome, both in name and functionality, but on a much larger scale. There are growing concerns over logistical challenges and how the majority of the project will be funded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How close were Trump, Epstein? What we know about their friendship What progress has been made so far? Space Force Gen. Mike Guetlein was unanimously confirmed by the Senate on July 17 to be the Golden Dome for America Direct Reporting Program Manager. Defense Secretary Pete Hagseth directed Guetlein that he would be working under an expedited timeline. Guetlein has 30 days from confirmation to build a team, 60 days to deliver an initial system design, and 120 days to present a full implementation plan, including satellite and ground station details, two people briefed on the memo told Reuters. Six months into term, Trump touts revived US as approval dips Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In June, the Pentagon tested a long-range radar in Alaska that successfully acquired, tracked, and reported missile target data, according to Reuters reporting. The Long Range Discrimination Radar was created by Lockheed Martin and could be integral to the success of the Golden Dome. A nearly $25 billion initial investment in the Golden Dome was included in Trumps one big, beautiful bill. At least a portion of the initial funding is expected to be awarded to a defense contractor. Additionally, the House-passed Defense Appropriations bill includes $13 billion to support Trumps Golden Dome aspirations. Ohio high school first in US to receive decommissioned Air Force Jet Project faces uncertainty without Elon Musk, SpaceX The highly publicized feud between Elon Musk and President Trump has resulted in Musks SpaceX falling out of favor with the U.S. government. The contention over Trumps big, beautiful bill may eliminate the company from partnering with the Department of Defense on the Golden Dome altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. has been highly reliant on Musks SpaceX for defense communications since Trump took office, however. The military has been utilizing Starlink and Starshield satellites for communications, making the total pivot away from SpaceX challenging for the project. US Air Force veteran saved two lives as a double organ donor More companies in running to partner with US Recently, other defense companies have arisen as top targets for the Pentagon, sources told Reuters. Some of these companies include defense heavyweights like Anduril Industries, Boeing, Booz Allen Hamilton, Lockheed Martin, Palantir Technologies and Rocket Lab, among others. Other, newer companies are also in the running, including Amazons Project Kuiper and Stoke Space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amazons Project Kuiper is gaining buzz as it just launched 78 of a planned 3,000 low-Earth orbit satellites. In comparison, SpaceX has over 9,000 Starlink satellites orbiting the globe currently. Reuters 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. A subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight voted Wednesday to subpoena the Department of Justice for files in the sex trafficking investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. Three Republicans on the panel voted with Democrats for the subpoena, sending it through on an 8-2 vote tally. Republican subcommittee chairman, Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, said that work to draft the subpoena was beginning. The vote came just hours before the House was scheduled to end its July work session and depart Washington for a monthlong break. House Speaker Mike Johnson has adjourned Major business in the House ahead of Congress August recess to avoid contentious votes on Epstein-related matters as the President Donald Trump 's administration faces intense public pressure to release more information about the sexual predator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Wednesday, a judge rejected the Justice Department's request to unseal transcripts from grand jury investigations of Epstein years ago in Florida, saying the request doesnt meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under federal law that could make them public. A similar records request is still pending in New York. Heres the latest: US automakers say Trumps 15% tariff deal with Japan puts them at a disadvantage U.S. automakers have said the tariffs on Japanese vehicles at 15% would put them at a competitive disadvantage, saying they will face steeper import taxes on steel, aluminum and parts than their competitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matt Blunt, president of the American Automotive Policy Council which represents General Motors, Ford and Jeep-maker Stellantis said in an interview that the U.S. companies and workers definitely are at a disadvantage because they face a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum and a 25% tariff on parts and finished vehicles. There are some exceptions for products covered under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement that went into effect in 2020. The domestic automaker reaction reveals the challenge of enforcing policies across the world economy, showing that for all of Trumps promises there can be genuine tradeoffs from policy choices that risk serious blowback in politically important states such as Michigan and Wisconsin, where automaking is both a source of income and of identity. Read more about automakers reactions Deal between Columbia University and Trump administration goes beyond $220 million payment Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbia University has said it will implement a series of changes previously announced in March, including reviewing its Middle East curriculum to make sure it is comprehensive and balanced and appointing new faculty to its Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies. The university will also have to issue a report to a monitor assuring that its programs do not promote unlawful DEI goals, among other changes. The settlement was carefully crafted to protect the values that define us and allow our essential research partnership with the federal government to get back on track, acting University President Claire Shipman said. The school had been threatened with the loss of billions of dollars in government support after the Trump administration said the university failed to squelch antisemitism on campus during the Israel-Hamas war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Appeals court upholds block of Trumps order ending birthright citizenship The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the order is unconstitutional, affirming a lower-court decision that blocked its enforcement nationwide. The ruling puts the issue one step closer to quickly coming back before the U.S. Supreme Court. Columbia University reaches a deal with Donald Trump to restore federal research funds Columbia University announced it reached a deal with the Trump administration to pay more than $220 million to the federal government to restore the federal research money that was canceled in the name of combating antisemitism on campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the agreement, the Ivy League school will pay the $200 million settlement over three years to the federal government, the university said. It will also pay $21 million to settle investigations brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This agreement marks an important step forward after a period of sustained federal scrutiny and institutional uncertainty, acting University President Claire Shipman said. Bondi facing Democratic calls to testify following report she told Trum p he was in Epstein files The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that Attorney General Pam Bondi told Trump his name was among many high-profile figures mentioned in the files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps personal ties to Jeffrey Epstein are well-established and his name is already known to have been included in records related to the wealthy financier, though the mention does not imply wrongdoing. We need to bring Bondi and (FBI Director Kash) Patel into the Judiciary Committee to testify about this now, Sen. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, said in response to the report in a video posted on X. The Justice Department issued a joint statement from Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche saying nothing in the files warranted further investigation or prosecution. Read more about calls for Bondi to testify Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tech industry tried reducing AIs pervasive bias. Now Trump wants to end its woke AI efforts After retreating from their workplace diversity, equity and inclusion programs, tech companies could now face a second reckoning over their DEI work in AI products. In the White House and the Republican-led Congress, woke AI has replaced harmful algorithmic discrimination as a problem that needs fixing. Past efforts to advance equity in AI development and curb the production of harmful and biased outputs are a target of investigation, according to subpoenas sent to Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI and 10 other tech companies last month by the House Judiciary Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the standard-setting branch of the U.S. Commerce Department has deleted mentions of AI fairness, safety and responsible AI in its appeal for collaboration with outside researchers. Read more about efforts to deter DEI work in AI products Trump administration canceled a $4.9B loan guarantee for a line to deliver green power The U.S. Department of Energy declared that it is not critical for the federal government to have a role in the first phase of Chicago-based Invenergys planned Grain Belt Express that would deliver solar and wind-generated electricity from the Midwest to the eastern U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department also questioned whether the $11 billion project could meet the financial conditions required for a loan guarantee. President Trump has repeatedly derided wind and solar energy as unreliable and opposed efforts to combat climate change by moving away from fossil fuels. The Department of Energy also said the conditional commitment to Invenergy in November was among billions of dollars worth of commitments rushed out the doors by former President Joe Bidens administration after Trump won the election. Read more about the canceled loan for green power line Whats next for congressional action on Jeffrey Epstein The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Epsteins girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, while a subcommittee voted to subpoena the Justice Department for documents related to Epstein. And senators in both parties have expressed openness to holding hearings on the matter after Congress August recess. Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, has introduced legislation with bipartisan support that would require the Justice Department to make publicly available in a searchable and downloadable format all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to Epstein and his associates. House Speaker Mike Johnson and the Republican majority leader, Rep. Steve Scalise, have said they will address whatever outstanding Epstein-related issues are in Congress when they return from recess. Republican leadership say they dont want to stymie actions from the Trump administration or release information that may harm Epsteins victims. Democrats, meanwhile, have seized on Epstein as a talking point in their broader message against the GOPs agenda they plan to take home to their districts during the August recess. Josh Shapiro, a leading Jewish Democrat, says Mamdani left room for extremists Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro criticized Zohran Mamdani for declining to condemn the phrase globalize the intifada during his winning primary campaign for New York City mayor. Weighing in on the controversy for the first time, Shapiro told Jewish Insider Wednesday that during Mamdanis campaign, he left open far too much space for extremists to either use his words or for him to not condemn the words of extremists that said some blatantly antisemitic things. The issue has followed Mamdani as he campaigns for the general election in Americas most Jewish city. Last week Mamdani said he would not use the intifada phrase and discourages others from doing so, noting the pain the phrase engenders among Jews. Elected officials have an obligation speak out against harmful language, said Shapiro, who is seen as a leading candidate for president in 2028. House subcommittees subpoena vote shows growing intensity for Epstein disclosure House Speaker Mike Johnson wanted to get the House out of town. Democrats and a few Republicans had other plans Wednesday afternoon. In the hours after the House took its last votes for several weeks and many lawmakers headed to the airport for their annual August recess, a subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena the Department of Justice for records on the sex trafficking investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. It exemplified the intensifying push for disclosures in the Epstein investigation even as Johnson caught between demands from Trump and clamoring from his own members for the House to act has repeatedly rebuffed calls for the full House to vote on release of the files. The House Committee on Oversight also issued a subpoena Wednesday for Ghislaine Maxwell, a convicted sex offender and girlfriend of the late Epstein, to testify before committee officials in August. Epstein-related records already made public included mentions of Trumps name According to news reports Wednesday, the Justice Department told Trump in May that his name was among high-profile people mentioned in government files of Epstein, though the mention does not imply wrongdoing. The mention of the presidents name in the documents was previously known. Files that had already been released by the government included a 2016 deposition in which an accuser recounted she spent several hours with Epstein at Trumps Atlantic City casino but didnt say if she met Trump and did not accuse him of any wrongdoing. Trump has also said he once thought Epstein was a terrific guy but that they later had a falling out. White House spokesperson Steven Cheung on Wednesday said the reports were nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media. Trump signs three executive orders to wrap up his AI keynote speech The first order seeks to streamline federal permitting of AI infrastructure projects to make it easier to construct the energy-hungry data center buildings needed to form and run AI products. The second promotes the sale of American AI products abroad, a move Trump said would help make the U.S. an AI export powerhouse. Trumps third executive order appeals to allegations among his backers that leading AI chatbots have a liberal bias. He said the order declares that the federal government should not procure AI technology that has a partisan bias or an ideological agenda. Trump said the orders will help America win the AI race. Democratic representative faces possible House censure after visit to migrant detention center A House Republican wants to censure Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver over a skirmish with law enforcement during a congressional oversight visit to a new immigration detention facility in her home state of New Jersey. She has pleaded not guilty to assault charges stemming from the May 9 incident. Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana pushed forward the measure, which also calls for removing McIver from her seat on the Homeland Security Committee. Higgins says McIver violated the chamber rules that require a member to behave at all times in a manner that shall reflect creditably on the House. The congresswoman said in a statement that Clay Higgins is a bigot who wants to be back in the news. The prospect of censure used to be rare in the House but has become more frequent. House Republicans have been quick to punish Democratic lawmakers for transgressions large and small. GOP House members want to run in other races. Trump is telling them to stay in their seats Republican Rep. Zach Nunn of Iowa had been weighing a run for governor until he had a conversation with Trump. Afterward, he opted to seek reelection to a seat that national Republicans feel would have been more competitive without an incumbent on the ballot. Trump offered a full-throated endorsement of Nunns reelection after he said he spoke with him. Trump has launched increasingly heavy-handed efforts to keep incumbent House members in their seats and keep those seats in GOP hands as he and his political team try to avoid what happened in his first term, when Republicans lost the chamber after two years. The party in power historically loses seats in midterm elections. From Michigan to New York to Iowa, Trump has actively worked to reshape Republican primary fields, demonstrating the enormous influence he wields over a party that, by and large, answers to him. Read more about Trumps efforts to keep GOP House members in their seats Trump offers industry-friendly takes in AI speech In his AI speech, Trump is sharing some views on the technology that industry lobbyists are sure to appreciate. Saying he wants the U.S. to do whatever it takes to lead the world on AI, the president argued AI firms cant be successful if they must pay for all the works they use to train their models. Publishers, authors, musicians and others have raised alarm about AI models using their works without permission, arguing it violates copyright law. Trump also called for a federal standard on AI laws and denounced the patchwork of state AI laws that exists without meaningful federal legislation on the technology. Tech companies had fought for a 10-year moratorium on state AI laws in Congress, but the Senate voted it down earlier this month. House subcommittee votes to subpoena Justice Department for Epstein files Democrats on a subcommittee of the powerful House Committee on Oversight made a motion for the subpoena Wednesday afternoon, just hours before the House was scheduled to end its July work session and depart Washington for a monthlong break. Three Republicans on the panel voted with Democrats for the subpoena, sending it through on an 8-2 vote tally. The Republican subcommittee chairman, Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, said that work was beginning to draft the subpoena but that it would take some time for both sides to work out the final language. Trump appears at AI event touting trade deals The president, speaking at an AI summit being held at an auditorium in Washington, opened his remarks focusing on one of his favorite subjects: tariffs. Trump was supposed to discuss his AI action plan but instead launched into a recap of his trade deal announced Tuesday with Japan, along with a trade framework for the Philippines. Trump said hes making so many deals that even if youre like me, a deal junkie, thats a lot of deals. House Republicans move to create new panel to investigate Jan. 6 Capitol attack The representatives say they will vote on a resolution this fall to create a new select subcommittee to handle the investigation. Republicans have argued for years that President Trump was not to blame for the violent attack in 2021 by his supporters as he was pushing to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Shortly after taking office, Trump pardoned or commuted prison sentences for around 1,500 people who had been charged with crimes related to the rioting, including leaders of the militant Oath Keepers and Proud Boys groups and roughly 200 people who had pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement. A separate Republican subcommittee in the last Congress investigated security failures that day. It also probed the Democratic-led Jan. 6 select committee that found in 2022 that Trump criminally engaged in a multi-part conspiracy to overturn the lawful results of the presidential election and failed to act to stop his supporters from attacking the Capitol. Justice Department creates 'strike force' to assess material released by Gabbard The department said the team will investigate potential next legal steps arising from the materials regarding Russian election interference that National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard recently made public. Attorney General Pam Bondi says the Justice Department will leave no stone unturned to deliver justice. State Department notifies Congress of $322M weapons sales to Ukraine The State Department sent a congressional notification Wednesday that it had approved a new slate of arms to Ukraine as it fends off escalating attacks from Russia. The sales include $150 million for the supply, maintenance, repair and overhaul of U.S. armored vehicles, and $172 million for surface-to-air missile systems. The approvals come weeks after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the pause on other weapons shipments to Ukraine to allow the Pentagon to assess its weapons stockpiles, in a move that caught the White House by surprise. President Trump then said the U.S. would continue to send weapons, with some on their way in early July. The Trump administration has gone back and forth about providing more vital military aid to Ukraine more than three years into Russias invasion. Colleges face investigations over scholarship programs for immigrants The Trump administration is investigating five universities for their scholarship programs that support students who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children. The Education Departments Office for Civil Rights opened the investigations at the University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. The administration argues the scholarships for immigrants in the country illegally discriminate based on where students were born. Officials at several of the colleges say they are reviewing the claims. Tesla profit plunges in latest quarter as Elon Musks turn to politics continues to keep buyers away The car company that has faced boycotts for months said Wednesday that revenue dropped 12% and profits slumped 16% in the three months through June. Quarterly profits at the electric vehicle, battery and robotics company fell to $1.17 billion, or 33 cents a share, from $1.4 billion, or 40 cents a share. That was the third quarter in a row that profit dropped. Revenue fell from $25.5 billion to $22.5 billion in the April through June period, slightly above Wall Streets forecast. Musk, who helped elect Trump with a massive campaign donation and then headed his Department of Government Efficiency cost-cutting program, has seen Tesla sales fall not just in the U.S. but also Europe. He alienated many in the market for cars in Great Britain, France, Germany and elsewhere by embracing far-right candidates for office on the continent. Read more about Teslas latest reported profits Supreme Court rules Trump can remove 3 Consumer Product Safety Commission members Trump had previously fired the three Democratic members, but they were later reinstated by a federal judge. The justices acted on an emergency appeal from the Justice Department, which argued that the agency is under Trumps control and the president is free to remove commissioners without cause. The court provided a brief, unsigned explanation that the case is similar to earlier ones in which it allowed Trump to fire board members of other independent agencies, whom Congress protected from arbitrary dismissals. The three liberal justices dissented. The Consumer Product Safety Commission helps protect people from dangerous products by issuing recalls, suing errant companies and more. Trump fired the three Democrats on the five-member commission in May. They were serving seven-year terms after being nominated by former President Joe Biden. Read more about the ruling on the Democratic members firing House Oversight Committee subpoenas Ghislaine Maxwell The committee ordered that Maxwell, a convicted sex offender and girlfriend of the late Jeffrey Epstein, testify before committee officials on Aug. 11. Lawmakers and staff will conduct her deposition at the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, where Maxwell is imprisoned. The subpoena notes that Maxwells case has received immense public interest and scrutiny in recent years. The Trump administration has come under intense scrutiny to release documents related to Epstein after Trump vowed to do so on the campaign trail. While the department undertakes efforts to uncover and publicly disclose additional information related to your and Mr. Epsteins cases, it is imperative that Congress conduct oversight of the federal governments enforcement of sex trafficking laws generally and specifically its handling of the investigation and prosecution of you and Mr. Epstein, reads the subpoenas cover letter to Maxwell. House Speaker Mike Johnson said during a press conference that he doubted if Maxwell can be counted on to tell the truth but said he supported Oversight Committee Chair James Comers investigation. Experts said release of Epstein grand jury records was a long shot Before a judge turned down a request to release grand jury materials about Jeffrey Epstein, experts had expressed doubt that transcripts would reveal much. Federal grand juries hear evidence in secret and then decide whether there is enough for an indictment. Experts say the transcripts likely would not offer surprises because prosecutors typically dont introduce the entire investigation. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg in Florida said the Trump administrations request to release grand jury documents from 2005 and 2007 did not meet any of the exceptions to make them public under federal law. She said no in a 12-page opinion Wednesday. Similar requests remain pending in New York federal court in separate grand jury investigations from 2018. Epstein, a wealthy financier, was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He killed himself in a jail cell about a month later, authorities said. House Democrats launch bid to subpoena Department of Justice for Epstein files Congressman Summer Lee, a Pennsylvania Democrat, motioned for the committee to order the Justice Department release all files to the late sexual predator Jeffrey Epstein during a House Oversight subcommittee meeting. If our colleagues on this committee dont join us in this vote, then what theyre essentially doing is joining President Donald Trump in complicity, Lee said of Republicans. The vote is still pending after the Republican majority took a brief recess in the meeting. Democrats have for several weeks been eager to highlight the Trump administrations reticence to release information connected to Epstein. Republicans have suspended most business in the House to avoid more contentious votes on the subject before Congress enters a month-long August recess. Some Republicans have repeatedly raised the subject as a matter of government transparency alongside Democrats, who are eager to tie the president to Epstein. Trump campaigned on releasing more information about the late sexual predator, while Attorney General Pam Bondi said earlier this year that the Justice Department would release more documents without specifying what materials. Judge bars ICE from immediately taking Abrego Garcia into custody if hes released from jail A federal judge in Maryland has prohibited the Trump administration from taking Kilmar Abrego Garcia into immediate immigration custody if hes released from jail in Tennessee while awaiting trial on human smuggling charges, according to an order issued Wednesday. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the U.S. government to provide notice of three business days if Immigration and Customs Enforcement intends to initiate deportation proceedings against the Maryland construction worker. The judge also ordered the government to restore the federal supervision that Abrego Garcia was under before he was wrongfully deported to his native El Salvador in March. That supervision had allowed Abrego Garcia to live and work in Maryland for years, while he periodically checked in with ICE. Abrego Garcia became a prominent face in the debate over President Donald Trumps immigration policies following his wrongful explusion to El Salvador in March. Trumps administration violated a U.S. immigration judges order in 2019 that shields Abrego Garcia from deportation to El Salvador because he likely faces threats of gang violence there. Judge rejects effort to unseal Epstein grand jury records in Florida A judge on Wednesday rejected a Trump administration request to unseal transcripts from grand jury investigations of Jeffrey Epstein years ago in Florida, though a similar records request is pending in New York. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg in West Palm Beach said the request to release grand jury documents from 2005 and 2007 did not meet any of the extraordinary exceptions under federal law that could make them public. White House doesnt make it clear what kind of accountability Trump wants of Obama Trump has repeated baseless claims that Obama engaged in treason and Leavitt said the president wants his predecessor to be held accountable. But she had no details, when pressed, about how Trump wants to see Obama held accountable when the Supreme Court ruled last year in a case involving Trump that former presidents have absolute immunity from prosecution for official acts that fall within their constitutional authority. Leavitt said that the White House would let the Justice Department decide what to do. Its in the Department of Justices hands and we trust them to move the ball forward, she said. Musks AI company wont get Trumps blessing White House press secretary Leavitt said President Trump will not support federal agencies contracting with Elon Musks AI company. Trump issued an AI action plan Wednesday meant to put the U.S. at the forefront of AI development, with recommendations including updated guidelines around federal contracting. Asked at a press briefing if federal agencies would have Trumps blessing to contract with xAI, Musks company, Leavitt said, I dont think so, no. Trump previously threatened to cut federal contracts with Musks companies as their relationship publicly flamed out in June. Gabbard said she hasnt seen a Jeffrey Epstein link to US or foreign intelligence Asked to rule out that Epstein was connected to any kind of intelligence, Gabbard said she hadnt seen any evidence or information to support that. I havent seen any evidence or information that reflets that, Gabbard said. She said if any information is found that changes that in any way, she supports loud and clear Trumps statement that the American people should see any credible evidence. Calls for retribution in Russia investigation run into reality of Supreme Court immunity ruling As President Donald Trump urges scrutiny of fellow commander-in-chief Barack Obama, its worth remembering a simple fact: Former presidents are immune from prosecution for official acts they take in office. Thats thanks to a Supreme Court opinion issued last year that shielded Trump in a case charging him with conspiring to overturn the 2020 presidential election. The topic has resurfaced thanks to efforts by the Trump administration to rewrite the history of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Trump has suggested that investigators should look into Obama and other senior officials, though none of them have been accused of any wrongdoing and the Supreme Court ruling in any event would foreclose the possibility of a prosecution of Obama. Gabbard calls Obamas response a disservice Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said former President Barack Obama did a disservice to the American people when his office attacked the governments rehashed grievances over the Russia investigation that overshadowed President Donald Trumps first term. Obamas post-presidential office issued a rare statement on Tuesday, condemning the Trump administrations allegations as a ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Asked about it at a Wednesday press briefing, Gabbard said Obama and others from his administration are trying to deflect away from their culpability in what is a historic scandal. Gabbard doesnt answer question about her motivations The director of national intelligence didnt address a question about those who suggest she is making the report public in order to improve her standing with Trump after she seemed to fall from favor earlier this year when he dismissed her assessments about Irans nuclear capabilities. Instead, Leavitt opted to answer the question for Gabbard, who said the only people questioning Gabbards motives were news reporters who constantly try to sow distrust and chaos amongst the presidents Cabinet. Gabbard lashes out at Obama administration officials on Russia investigation Tulsi Gabbard, the Trump administrations director of national intelligence, is touting from the White House podium the release of a House report that she claims helps undercut the reality of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Gabbard made a surprise appearance just hours after she made public a declassified report from House Republicans that was produced during the first presidential administration. The report does not dispute the intelligence communitys assessment that Russia interfered in the election, but alleges tradecraft failings in how intelligence officials reached the conclusion that Russian President Vladimir Putin intended to have Trump win. The release of the report, as Trump is facing backlash from elements of his base over the handling of records from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, is part of an ongoing effort by the Trump administration to rewrite the history of Russian election interference. Gabbard lashed out during lengthy remarks at specific members of the Obama administration. Gabbard appears at White House briefing Leavitt brought Gabbard up to the podium as a surprise guest at the daily press briefing. The director of national intelligence was accompanied by her cinematographer husband, Abraham Williams, who was filming her appearance in the White House briefing room. Williams is a filmmaker and was often seen filming Gabbard during her 2020 presidential campaign. Government Accountability Office issues impoundments decision on Head Start The audit watchdog for Congress has found that the Trump administration earlier this year withheld funds for Head Start programs in violation of federal law. The finding Wednesday underscores Democratic lawmakers concerns that the administration is unilaterally canceling funding for programs it does not view as a priority. The Government Accountability Office said that the Department of Health and Human Services between January 20 and April 15 significantly reduced the rate of disbursements for Head Start grants compared to the same period the prior year. Based on that evidence, it concluded the department was in violation of the Impoundment Control Act. The GAO also said current data suggests that Head Start funds have since been made available at rates consistent with those from the year before. Democrats said the damage was done, however. It does not matter how long these funds were frozen, said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee. The chaos and uncertainty of illegally withholding these funds is costly and hurts the hundreds of thousands of families that depend on Head Start. White House condemns Kohberger as vicious and evil killer White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt started a press briefing 45 minutes late on Wednesday and addressed the sentencing of Bryan Kohberger that had just concluded. Leavitt started the briefing with condolences to the victims family and called Kohberger a vicious and evil killer. If it were up to the president, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, Leavitt said. Kohberger was sentenced to serve four consecutive life sentences without parole for the brutal stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students nearly three years ago. Leavitt: Trumps AI plan will secure a brighter future for all Americans Trumps press secretary Karoline Leavitt praised Trumps new AI plan, which incorporates familiar pitches from tech lobbyists, during her press briefing. She noted Trump will speak on the plan at an event later in the afternoon and said hell also sign three executive orders there. Under president Trumps leadership, our country will lead the world in AI to secure a brighter future for all Americans, massively grow our economy and protect our national security, Leavitt said. Trumps new AI plan leans heavily on Silicon Valley ideas An artificial intelligence agenda that started coalescing on the podcasts of Silicon Valley billionaires is now being forged into U.S. policy as President Trump leans on the ideas of the tech figures who backed his election campaign. The AI Action Plan revealed by the White House on Wednesday includes some familiar tech lobby pitches: Accelerating the sale of AI technology abroad and making it easier to construct energy-hungry data centers in the U.S. It also includes some of the AI culture war preoccupations of the circle of venture capitalists who endorsed Trump last year. Read more on Trumps new AI plan FEMA acting chief defends response to Texas floods The acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency is pushing back on criticisms of the federal response to the central Texas floods that killed at least 135 people. I cant see anything we did wrong, FEMA acting administrator David Richardson told a House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee Wednesday morning, calling the relationship between state and federal agencies a model for how disasters should be handled. Richardson denied reports that FEMAs flood response was impaired by bureaucratic delays that slowed the deployment of urban search and rescue teams and left FEMA call centers unstaffed. FEMAs search and rescue leader, Ken Pagurek, resigned Monday. The response brought the maximum amount of capability to bear in Texas at the right time and the right place, said Richardson. Johnson says no need for House vote this week on Epstein records Speaker Mike Johnson said the House doesnt need to vote this week on releasing records related to the Jeffrey Epstein case because the Trump administration is already doing everything within their power to release them. The comments come as Democratic repeatedly try to force votes on the matter, casting it as an issue of trust in the government. GOP leadership has also unveiled a resolution that has no legal weight but would urge the Justice Department to produce more documentation. None of those efforts will be brought before the House for a vote before lawmakers return home for the traditional August recess. Theres no point in passing a resolution to urge the administration to do something that they are already doing, Johnson told reporters Wednesday. Thats why were going to let that process play out. Johnson said that if the process for releasing the information stalls out, then well take appropriate action when everybody returns here, but we have to allow the court process to play out. As Trump targets Harvard, other Republicans take aim at higher education nationally No government effort to influence a university private or public has gotten more attention than the clash at Harvard, where the Trump administration has frozen billions of dollars in federal funding as it seeks a series of policy changes. But far beyond the Ivy League, Republican officials are asserting control over public universities. These conservatives in GOP-led states say colleges are out of touch, too liberal and loading students with too much debt. First they focused on the critical race theory that racism is embedded in the nations institutions. Then they went after diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Since Trump took office, officials in states including Indiana, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Iowa and Idaho have sought control over university governance the rules for who picks presidents and boards and how curricula and tenure are determined. As at Harvard, theyve sought to reduce the power of faculty members and students. Read more about GOP efforts to reshape higher education What are Americans thinking? Check out the new AP-NORC polling tracker Wondering how Trumps approval rating has changed, or where U.S. adults stand on trust in the Supreme Court, or whether they think climate change is happening? Take a look at the new AP-NORC polling tracker, which shows the latest poll numbers as well as how theyve changed over time. The tracker shows AP-NORC polling results going back as far as 2018. Go deep into the data and look at how the results break down by party, race, gender, and age. The polling tracker shows shifts in public opinion on trust in institutions, favorability of Trump and Vance, the state of the countrys economy, and more. The Trump administration has opposed international mandates on global warming The United States and Russia, both of whom are major petroleum-producing states, are staunchly opposed to the court mandating emissions reductions. But those who cling to fossil fuels could go broke doing it, the U.N. secretary-general told The Associated Press in an exclusive interview this week. Simply having the court issue an opinion is the latest in a series of legal victories for the small island nations: The UNs top court delivers landmark decision on tackling climate change The United Nations top courts advisory opinion Wednesday declares that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a human right. The International Court of Justices opinion describes the obligations of every nation to tackle climate change and the consequences they may face if they dont. The non-binding opinion, which runs to over 500 pages, is seen as a potential turning point in international climate law. Enshrining a sustainable environment as a human right paves the way for other legal actions, including states returning to the ICJ to hold each other to account, as well as domestic lawsuits. The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is therefore inherent in the enjoyment of other human rights, court President Yuji Iwasawa said. Read more about the UN courts landmark climate ruling In her entire law career, Sarah McCracken has never seen anything like the email she received on June 25. McCracken, a tenants' rights lawyer at Tobener Ravenscroft, is currently representing a Latino family suing a landlord and real estate agent for illegal eviction after being kicked out of their Baldwin Park home last year. A few weeks after being served, amid a series of ICE raids primarily targeting Latino communities in L.A. County, Rod Fehlman, the lawyer who appeared to be representing the agent at the time, sent McCracken's team a series of emails disputing the lawsuit and urging them to drop the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He ended the correspondence with this: "It is also interesting to note that your clients are likely to be picked up by ICE and deported prior to trial thanks to all the good work the Trump administration has done in regards to immigration in California." "It's racist," McCracken said. "Not only is it unethical and probably illegal, but it's just a really wild thing to say especially since my clients are U.S. citizens." The comment arrived as ICE raises tensions between landlords and Latino tenants. According to California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, ICE has been pressuring some landlords to report their tenants' immigration status. Bonta's office issued a consumer alert on Tuesday reminding landlords that "it is illegal in California to discriminate against tenants or to harass or retaliate against a tenant by disclosing their immigration status to law enforcement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fehlman didn't respond to requests for comment, nor did the clients he seemed to be representing: real estate agent David Benavides and brokerage Majesty One Properties, Inc. Fehlman's role in the case is unclear; following requests for comment from The Times, Benavides and the brokerage responded to McCracken's complaint using a different law firm. But according to McCracken, Fehlman serves as the defendants' personal attorney and will likely still take part in the lawsuit in an advisory role. Evicted From 2018 to 2024, Yicenia Morales rented a two-bedroom condo in Baldwin Park, which she shared with her husband, three children and grandson. According to her wrongful eviction lawsuit filed in May, the house had a slew of problems: faulty electricity, leaks in the bathroom, bad ventilation, and a broken heater, air-conditioning unit and garage door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There was a lot that needed to be fixed, but we accepted it because we were just happy to find a place to live," Morales said. The real problems started in 2024, when her landlord, Celia Ruiz, started asking the family to leave because she wanted to sell the property, which isn't a valid reason for eviction under California law or Baldwin Park's Just Cause Eviction Ordinance, the suit said. According to the lawsuit, Ruiz then changed her story, alleging that she wanted to move into the house herself, which would be a valid reason for eviction. According to the suit, Ruiz and her real estate agent, David Benavides of Majesty One Properties, constantly urged Morales and her family to leave. In September, the pressure mounted. Ruiz penned a handwritten note saying she needed the house back, and Benavides began calling them almost every day, the suit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, assuming Ruiz needed to move back in, Morales left. But instead of moving in herself, Ruiz put the property on the market in January and sold it by March. "I really believed she needed the house for herself," Morales said. "I'm just tired of people taking advantage of others." Lawyer tactics Depending on your interpretation of California's Business and Professions Code, Fehlman's comment could be illegal, McCracken said. Section 6103.7 says lawyers can be suspended, disbarred or disciplined if they "report suspected immigration status or threaten to report suspected immigration status of a witness or party to a civil or administrative action." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the State Bar of California bans lawyers from threatening to present criminal, administrative or disciplinary charges to obtain an advantage in a civil dispute. You could argue that Fehlman's email isn't a threat. He never said he'd call ICE himself, only claiming that Morales and her family "are likely to be picked up by ICE and deported." Morales and her entire family are all U.S. citizens. But she said she feels racially profiled because of her last name. "It's not fair for him to take advantage of that," she said. "I was born here. I have a birth certificate. I pay taxes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just to be safe, Morales sent her birth certificates to McCracken's team. Even though she's a citizen, if Fehlman reports her to ICE, she still doesn't feel safe. Federal agents have arrested U.S. citizens during its recent raids across L.A, and a 2018 investigation by The Times found that ICE has arrested nearly 1,500 U.S. citizens since 2012, detaining some for years at a time. "I was already depressed over the eviction. Now I'm hurt, embarrassed and nervous as well. Will he really call ICE on us?" Morales said. McCracken said Fehlman's message is a byproduct of the current anti-immigrant political environment. Fehlman sent the email on June 25, the end of a jarring month that saw the agency arrest 2,031 people across seven counties in Southern California, 68% of which had no criminal convictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People seem to be emboldened to flout the law because they see people at the top doing it," she said. "It's totally unacceptable behavior." An ironic twist, she added, is that Fehlman's own client at the time was also Latino. "I don't know if Benavides was aware that his lawyer is making racially profiling comments, but I don't think he'd want to work with someone like that," McCracken said. The case is still in its early stages. Benavides and Majesty One Properties responded to the complaint on July 17, and McCracken's team hasn't officially served the landlord Ruiz yet because they've been unable to locate her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of the ICE comment, communication between McCracken and Fehlman halted. McCracken decided Fehlman's rant and possible threat didn't warrant a response, and Fehlman hasn't said anything else in the meantime. Her team is still deciding how they want to proceed in the wake of the comment, which could justify legal action. She called it a dangerous attempt to chill her client's speech and a failed attempt to intimidate her into dropping the case. But he took it way too far. "We're at a point in time where lawyers need to be upholding the rule of law," she said. "Especially in a time like this." 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. The Planned Parenthood in Vienna, West Virginia, doesn't offer abortion services, but will be affected by provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. (Google Maps) A Republican bill that temporarily restricts Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood will affect about one third of patients at its only West Virginia clinic, according to officials with the organization. The clinic located in Vienna in Wood County doesnt offer abortion and hasnt since long before West Virginia lawmakers mostly outlawed the procedure in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients a third of whom are on Medicaid come to the clinic for birth control, cancer screenings, sexually transmitted infections testing and treatment, among other health services, said Anne Logan Bass, clinical director of family planning for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act that President Donald Trump signed into law earlier this month prohibits Medicaid from being used at Planned Parenthood, even for preventive health care, for one year. The organization is the countrys top abortion provider, performing more than 400,000 in 2024, according to its annual report. We are devastated for our patients, Bass said of the Medicaid prohibition. Its a really harmful law thats preventing our patients from going to where they want to receive care. We are committed to maintaining access for care for as long as we can. The law targets abortion providers who made more than $800,000 from Medicaid in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokeswoman for the West Virginia Department of Human Services, which oversees Medicaid, said the department is aware the law will affect the Vienna Planned Parenthood clinic and is seeking further clarification from the federal Centers for Medicare and Services about other clinics in the state that may be affected. The state expects further guidance once the legal process is over, Angelica Hightower, communications specialist for DHS, wrote in an email to West Virginia Watch. The Womens Health Center of West Virginia, located in Charleston, performed abortions until the state passed an abortion ban and is associated with the Womens Health Center of Maryland, which still does. A spokeswoman for the Womens Health Center of West Virginia said the law will not prohibit it from accepting Medicaid patients. The Medicaid prohibitions for Planned Parenthood took effect immediately after Trump signed the legislation into law. The national organization filed a lawsuit challenging the law. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Boston granted a temporary restraining order that kept the law from being effective for 14 days. After a hearing Friday, the judge granted a preliminary injunction blocking the government for now from cutting Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood agencies that either dont provide abortion care or that dont have at least $800,000 in Medicaid reimbursements per year, according to reporting by the Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, which manages the West Virginia clinic, does not fall into the category of those that will keep receiving Medicaid funding, said Julia Walker, a spokesperson for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic manages a total of 14 clinics in West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Collectively, 13% of the patients of Planned Parenthood South Atlantic are Medicaid recipients, she said. Planned Parenthood may close up to 200 clinics across the country because of the Medicaid prohibition. Bass said there are no current plans to close any of the clinics in the South Atlantic region. West Virginias entire congressional delegation, all Republicans, voted for the budget reconciliation bill. In a statement after the vote, Rep. Riley Moore praised the legislation, saying it fully defunds Planned Parenthood. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito posted about her support of defunding Planned Parenthood on the social media platform X, reposting Wall Street Journal opinion writer Matthew Hennessy who said The defunding of abortion giant Planned Parenthood is the most beautiful thing in the GOP megabill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Couldnt have said it better, @MattHennessey, she wrote. Bass said she worries about Medicaid patients at the Vienna clinic and elsewhere. She recalled a patient she met while working in the Vienna clinic about six months ago. The patient, who is on Medicaid, told Bass she doesnt see any other health care providers besides the ones at Planned Parenthood. That patients been coming here forever, since she was like 18 and coming to Planned Parenthood as her quote, only doctor, Bass said. I just really worry about whats going to happen to these patients, where theyre going to receive care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the law is an example of Americans losing their freedoms. You should have the freedom to decide whats best for you, not the government, Bass said. Its true that Americans are losing their freedoms, and this law is just one example. While the provision of the law is in effect, Planned Parenthood is still reviewing the judges order, Walker said. While we do that, we are still seeing patients like normal nothing has changed for our patients in West Virginia, she said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) will not challenge New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) after considering a bid for months, likely clearing the way for Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) to become the GOP nominee if she follows through with her expected candidacy. Lawler instead will seek reelection in his battleground House district where Democrats will seek to oust him as part of the partys efforts to win back control of the House. Democrats, however, fell short in the district by more than 6 points in November. Lawler is considered among the stronger candidates as one of the more moderate members of the GOP, giving some Republicans hope he could have pulled off an upset against Hochul in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he told The New York Times he wouldnt run for the Empire States top elected job, though he still views himself as the best candidate to face Hochul. While I fundamentally believe I am best positioned to take on Kathy Hochul and offer New Yorkers a real choice for governor, I have made the decision to run for reelection to the House and continue the important work Ive been doing over the past two and a half years, he told the outlet. Lawler had faced some pressure from the president to pass on a gubernatorial bid, with a person familiar with a private conversation between Trump and Lawler last week telling the Times that Trump made his preference clear. Trump endorsed Lawler for reelection to his House seat in May in a Truth Social post that some observers believed hinted at his preference for Stefanik to become the Republican nominee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president hasnt formally said he supports Stefanik running for governor, but she has been a close ally of his and was his choice to become United Nations ambassador before her nomination was pulled as the House GOP managed its narrow majority. Lawler had previously said he would make his decision about whether to run for governor regardless of Stefaniks decision, just based on whether he saw a path to victory. Democrats celebrated the decision and pointed to Trumps influence. New York State Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs said in a statement that Lawler caving to Trump shows hes too weak to face Hochul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Democratic Governors Association called Lawlers decision a humiliating setback for Republicans, arguing that his choice means he doesnt believe a Republican can win statewide. House Democrats campaign arm spokesperson Riya Vashi said the only thing more embarrassing than Lawlers failed fantasy campaign for governor is the brutal loss hes about to face at home, vowing to defeat him for reelection. Early polls showed Stefanik comfortably ahead in a hypothetical Republican primary race with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman also in the mix. Blakeman has also been considering a possible gubernatorial run but first faces his own reelection battle this year. But Republicans now seem likely to avoid a hotly contested primary, as they said they hoped only one of Lawler or Stefanik would go forward with a gubernatorial run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stefanik seems all but certain to run for governor, with a source familiar with her thinking telling The Hill last month its not a matter of if, its a matter of when. Republicans have been hopeful that they could seriously compete for the office in 2026 after impressive performances in recent years. Hochul won reelection in 2022 by about 6 points, a much closer margin than observers expected. Trump also made significant gains in New York in last years presidential election, while still falling short by double digits of victory in the state. Adding to Republican optimism has been Hochuls struggles with her favorability rating, which has often been underwater over more than the past year. Early polling has shown Hochul well ahead of Stefanik in a hypothetical general election matchup, though Hochul currently has much stronger name identification and many were undecided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats argue that Hochul is in a stronger position next year than when the party was taken by surprise in 2022 with the GOPs improvement. Lawler said in a post on the social platform X that serving his district has been the greatest honor of his life, and hes proud of the wins hes delivered for his constituents and the country. He called Hochul the worst Governor in America and said she must be defeated in 2026. But he said he wants to continue the work hes doing in Washington. Theres more work ahead, and I remain focused on putting New York families first, Lawler said. Updated at 9:19 a.m. EDT Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. NEW YORK GOP Rep. Mike Lawler plans to forgo a bid for New York governor and will mount a reelection bid for his swing House seat instead, he told POLITICO on Wednesday. Lawlers decision, first reported by The New York Times, will give Rep. Elise Stefanik, a staunch ally to President Donald Trump, a clear path to the Republican nomination next year. Lawler will seek a third term in one of the countrys toughest House battlegrounds. He is a high-priority target for the House Democrats campaign arm, and at least seven Democratic challengers are vying for his suburban New York City seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The battle-tested, media-savvy moderate has long sought an opportunity to challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul. He was widely viewed as one of Republicans best chances at winning statewide office in a generation. Lawlers ambitions were stifled, though, by his Republican House colleague. Stefanik signaled her interest in the race earlier this year after her nomination to become Trumps United Nations ambassador was yanked . Polls have shown Stefanik with a clear lead in a hypothetical GOP gubernatorial primary over Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Stefanik praised Lawler as a great, effective and hardworking lawmaker. She plans to make a decision on a gubernatorial campaign after the November elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawler said Wednesday on Fox & Friends that he believes Hochul is the the worst governor in America, but added that after months of deliberation, Ive decided the right thing to do for me and my family and my district is to run for reelection. My seat was determinative of control of the House back in 2022 and again in 2024. GOP officials have been eager to avoid a party primary and did not want a repeat of the 2022 race, when leading candidate Lee Zeldin faced a four-way contest that forced him to the right and to dip into his campaign coffers. Prominent Republicans have urged Lawler to run for reelection in his Hudson Valley district, which Kamala Harris won by 1 point in 2024, in order to bolster their chances of retaining a narrow majority in the chamber. In May, Trump gave him an early endorsement for a third House term, writing on Truth Social that Lawler is a True America First Patriot. The House member sought to downplay whether the president was discouraging him from a bid for governor, telling POLITICO at the time , Ultimately, my decision is going to be my decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Democrats gleefully pounced on the news Wednesday. Mike Lawler caving to Donald Trump before his campaign even starts proves hes too weak to take on Governor Hochul and he knows it, State Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs said. Lawler is raring for a reelection fight. But he may have a tougher battle than he did in 2024 as Democrats attack GOP votes for Trumps one big, beautiful bill and hone in on health care cuts. Lawler has sought to counter the narrative by spotlighting parts of the megalaw more popular with his constituents, including the quadrupling of the state and local tax deduction cap, or SALT, that he helped to negotiate . Lawler had a $2.2 million campaign war chest as of late June, which got a boost with a transfer from House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Lawler had nearly as much to spend on seeking a third term as all seven of his Democratic challengers combined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expect Democrats to link him to Trump every chance they can in 2026. Mike Lawler mightve chickened out of a statewide race, but he cant outrun his heinous record of rubberstamping Trumps extreme agenda at every turn, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee spokesperson Riya Vashi said in a statement. Winning back the New York governors mansion will be an uphill climb for Republicans in this deep-blue state where Democrats hold all levers of statewide power. A GOP candidate has not won the office since 2002, when George Pataki secured a third and final term. Hochul posted on social media Wednesday that Lawler "doesnt have the spine to face me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the same Mike Lawler who caved to Trump the minute he asked to rip away New Yorkers health care," she wrote. When the 2023-25 budget bill made it to Gov. Tony Evers, he exercised his partial veto power, striking two digits and a dash from the years to extend the annual increases through 2425 an additional 400 years. Evers signed the 2023-25 budget bill on July 5, 2023. (Baylor Spears | Wisconsin Examiner) A handful of Republican lawmakers are seeking, again, to take away schools authority to raise their school revenue limits by $325 per pupil annually for the next four centuries, given to them through a partial veto by Gov. Tony Evers. Reps. Dave Maxey (R-New Berlin) and Jim Piwowarczyk (R-Hubertus) alongside Sens. Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield) and Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) said in a memo that the bill would put property tax decisions back into the hands of local voters and taxpayers where they belong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock 402 years before this veto, the lawmakers said. It is hard to justify locking in a funding increase for just as long into the future. In the 2023-25 state budget bill, lawmakers included a $325 increase to schools revenue limits for only two years, 2023-24 and 2024-25. When the bill made it to Evers, he exercised his partial veto power, striking two digits and a dash from the years to extend the annual increases through 2425 an additional 400 years. In the last state budget, the Legislature allocated money to school general aid to support the revenue limit increase. The new state budget approved earlier this month did not include any general aid increase meaning that if school districts decide to use the $325 per pupil revenue increase, it will come solely from property taxes. The increase is not automatic and would need to be approved by individual school boards. The partial veto was controversial at the time with Republican lawmakers complaining that property taxpayers would be burdened by the veto and Evers had broken the deal with lawmakers. Evers defended it, saying he was giving schools a reliable annual funding increase. Republicans sued, attempting to get the veto declared unconstitutional, but the state Supreme Court upheld it in April, saying it was within Evers constitutional powers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers celebrated that decision, saying at the time that schools deserve sustainable, dependable, and spendable state support and investment. For over a decade, the Legislature has failed to meet that important obligation, Evers said in April. Importantly, this decision does not mean our work is done far from it. The bill faces a difficult path to becoming law as it would need to pass the Assembly and Senate and not be vetoed by Evers. The bill authors also complained about the governors vast veto power, which is one of the broadest in the nation. This use of that power has gone way too far, the lawmakers said. They referenced the dissent from Justice Brian Hagedorn in the lawsuit, saying that the veto gives the governor monarchical powers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The power has been curtailed in the past through state Supreme Court rulings, including recently when the Court unanimously ruled in another case that one of Evers partial vetoes was unconstitutional. Wisconsin governors have also lost some of their considerable partial veto authority through constitutional amendments. Evers 400-year veto led Republican lawmakers to introduce constitutional amendment proposals that would limit the power further. A constitutional amendment would need to pass the Senate and Assembly twice in consecutive legislative sessions and get approval from voters before it would become law. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Famous wildlife biologist and TV host Jeff Corwin was on Capitol Hill this week to fight changes lawmakers are considering to the Marine Mammals Protection Act. Time tested pillars of American conservation are on the chopping block, Corwin said. Republican Congressman Nick Begich is leading the proposal to change the MMPA, which he says is currently confusing and overly burdensome for coastal communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This draft aims to bring clarity, objectivity, and balance back into the implementation of the MMPA, Begich said. Corwin believes the proposed reforms would seriously weaken regulations in the law that have protected whales, seals, otters, polar bears, and other marine mammals since the 70s. We have some species right now that are on life support, and they are only on life support because of these programs. So this is the worst of times to be pulling the plug, Corrine said. Congresswoman Harriet Hageman spoke in support of the drafted reforms in a hearing on Wednesday, saying the regulatory changes are crucial to a larger Republican objective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advancing the Trump administrations goal to unleash Americas energy resources, Hageman said. Democrats are fighting the proposal. Congressman Jared Huffman made the case in the legislative hearing that Republicans planned reforms would undo decades of conservation progress. This bill amounts to a death sentence for many marine mammals and one of team extremes most dangerous proposals yet, Huffman said. Corwin says there are many examples of specific consequences that could result from the proposed changes. Within a decade or two the North Atlantic right whale will be extinct, Corwin said. The programs and management to help recover the Florida manatee, that will go away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corwin says this shouldnt be a partisan debate, because conserving wildlife impacts everyone. We are at the brink of losing resources that our next generations will depend upon, and thats why I think this is so important, Corwin 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Less than a year after announcing it would cease operation in its Sevelen, Switzerland-based headquarters by the end of 2025, Schoeller Textil has sold off its Schoeller Technologies division to Swiss textile chemical company Textilcolor. Schoeller Technologies was previously responsible for global licensing and marketing for its parent companys textile innovations. Textilcolor, which also is based in Sevelen, specializes in developing, manufacturing and distributing chemicals for textile finishing, placing emphasis on sustainability. The acquisition of Schoeller Technologies will allow Textilcolor to expand its technology portfolio while creating new development capability for future-oriented textile and chemical products. More from Sourcing Journal The acquisition is a consistent milestone in our long-term growth strategy, said Detlef Fischer, CEO of Textilcolor AG. With Schoeller Technologies, we are not only gaining renowned technologies, but also a highly qualified team with unique expertise. We will continue to develop and refine the products manufactured to date in this partnership in order to continue to provide our customers with future-oriented and sustainable technologies. Textilcolor will integrate the Schoeller Technologies team and tech into the Textilcolor brand going forward. Both companies share a common vision: the development of high-performance, sustainable and innovative textile solutions for a responsible future, said Hans Kohn, former chief operating officer of Schoeller Technologies and new head of brand management. Existing partnerships and customer relationships of Schoeller Technologies AG will be continued in the usual high quality, the established partner network and strengthened by the expanded possibilities of Textilcolor. In November 2024, 155-year-old Schoeller announced that the perfect storm of a poor post-pandemic market, higher labor costs and soaring energy rates had forced it to make the difficult decision to shut down. The specialized fiber maker owned by Swiss Albers Group and Formosa Taffeta said its competitive advantage had steadily deteriorated in recent years, forcing them to cease production at its Sevelen headquarters. That facility housed weaving, dyeing, lamination and coating operations, as well as a research, development and testing laboratory. Schoeller produced more than 6 million meters of Bluesign-approved performance textiles at its Sevelen facility, as well as its Baligen, Germany, location. Amid a day of blockbuster disclosures in the case of the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a U.S. House committee issued a subpoena for Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell to appear at a deposition in the federal women's prison in Tallahassee, Florida, where she is serving her 20-year sentence. "The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr. Epsteins cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny," wrote James Comer, the Kentucky Republican who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, in a July 23 letter to Maxwell through her Miami attorney, David Oscar Markus. The deposition is set for Aug. 11 at the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, the state capital, records show. The purpose is to further "potential legislative solutions ... to combat sex trafficking," among other things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Markus, in a social media post, wouldn't yet commit to his client agreeing to the deposition: "Ms. Maxwell is taking this one step at a time. She looks forward to her meeting with the Department of Justice, and that discussion will help inform how she proceeds," he said. As previously reported, the Epstein case has become a political liability for President Donald Trump, who was once friends with the wealthy financier, after he and top administration officials raised expectations of bombshell revelations before declaring the case closed. Epstein was arrested in 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors, including abusing and exploiting underage girls, and reportedly involving powerful and influential men. After his arrest, Epstein killed himself in a Manhattan jail, which has fueled conspiracy theories and demands including from the MAGA base for fuller disclosures. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for her role in recruiting and grooming the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On July 13, The Daily Mail reported you were willing to speak with Congress regarding Mr. Epsteins criminal activities," Comer wrote. "According to the reporting, a source said you were 'never offered any kind of plea deal' and 'would be more than happy to sit before Congress and tell (your) story.' Separately, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said July 22 that Justice Department prosecutors had also asked to meet with Maxwell. "While the Department (of Justice) undertakes efforts to uncover and publicly disclose additional information related to your and Mr. Epsteins cases, it is imperative that Congress conduct oversight of the federal governments enforcement of sex trafficking laws generally and specifically its handling of the investigation and prosecution of you and Mr. Epstein," Comer wrote. "In particular, the Committee seeks your testimony to inform the consideration of potential legislative solutions to improve federal efforts to combat sex trafficking and reform the use of non-prosecution agreements and/or plea agreements in sex-crime investigations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also July 23, the Wall Street Journal reported that when Justice Department officials reviewed what Attorney General Pam Bondi described as a truckload of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein earlier this year, they found multiple references to Trump. As early as this May in a White House meeting, Bondi told Trump his name appeared in the files, the Journal reported. Regardless, White House officials have steadfastly rejected any suggestion that Trump committed any wrongdoing. And a federal judge in Florida rejected a bid from the Justice Department on July 23 to unseal grand jury testimony tied to a two-decades-old investigation into Epstein. In an X post, Markus said that if Maxwell "agrees to testify before Congress and not take the 5th and that remains a big if she would testify truthfully, as she always has said she would and as she will with (Blanche). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "... (W)e are grateful to Mr. Blanche and his DOJ that they are approaching this with an open mind. That's how our system is supposed to work," he added. This story contains previously published material, including from USA TODAY. Jim Rosica is a member of the USA TODAY Network Florida Capital Bureau. Reach him at jrosica@tallahassee.com and follow him on Twitter/X: @JimRosicaFL. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Ghislaine Maxwell subpoenaed to testify in Florida on Epstein case WASHINGTON House lawmakers will get an increase in funding for security purposes amid a rise in threats toward political figures in recent months. Members will receive a one-time payment of $20,000 to install security measures at their personal homes, an increase from the current allotment of $10,000. Lawmakers will also receive a monthly payment of $5,000 a month for personal security through the end of the fiscal year. As Chairman of the Committee on House Administration, Im working to ensure everyone feels safe in their communities, Rep. Bryan Steil, who leads the committee responsible for the payments, told the Deseret News in a statement. The enhancements to member security are a step in the right direction. There is never space for political violence in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The enhanced payments come as lawmakers prepare to head home this week for the annual August recess and are not scheduled to return until after Labor Day. Members have consistently called for increased protections when lawmakers are in their home districts, citing challenges for U.S. Capitol Police when lawmakers are not in Washington. Those calls have increased in recent weeks, especially after a pair of shootings in Minnesota last month that rattled members of both parties. The allowance is so that people can have private security if they deem that necessary and then at the end of September we are going to look at that, evaluate all of the data points, how effective it was, how it was utilized and then make decisions going forward. We live in an enhanced threat environment, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters on Tuesday. Its not yet clear whether Senate leaders will soon follow suit, but Republican and Democratic senators have similarly called for enhanced security measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senators held a closed-door security briefing with the Senate sergeant-at-arms and Capitol Police in June to share details about recent threats as well as possible solutions to increase security for members. Senators emerging from the meeting said no decisions have been made about how to counter potential threats, but members said there was bipartisan support for increased resources. The attention to lawmaker security comes as members of Congress have experienced increased threats in recent years, according to data from U.S. Capitol Police. The agency reported 9,474 concerning statements or direct threats toward lawmakers, including their families and staff, in 2024. Thats a sharp increase from the 8,008 similar threats recorded in 2023 and the 7,501 threats in 2022. Editor's note: This story was updated to include comments from lawmaker Inna Sovsun. Lawmakers have begun collecting signatures to file a motion to the Constitutional Court challenging a controversial law that strips independence from the country's top anti-corruption institutions, lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak said on July 22. Ukraine passed legislation on July 22 granting the prosecutor general vast authority over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law, quickly pushed through by President Volodymyr Zelensky's lawmakers and signed by the president the same day, is seen as an effort to dismantle Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure and sparked demonstrations in Kyiv and other cities. "The only thing that can be done now to remedy the situation is to demolish this shoddy law in the Constitutional Court," Zhelezniak, a member of the opposition Holos party, wrote on Telegram. Zhelezniak claimed that procedural rules were violated during the bill's passage, making the constitutional challenge viable. The motion will require at least 45 signatures from members of parliament. "I think that this number (of signatures) can be found in the parliament," the lawmaker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Ukraine, bringing a case to the Constitutional Court means that a group of lawmakers or the president can formally challenge the legality of a law by asking the court to assess whether it complies with the country's Constitution. If the court rules that the law violates constitutional principles, it can be struck down in part or in full. Zhelezniak also expressed hope that international reaction might help reverse the legislation, though acknowledged it would be difficult to undo the damage. Lawmaker Inna Sovsun also condemned the move, saying that despite public pressure and protests across the country, "the law was still signed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sovsun said her team has already drafted and submitted a new bill aimed at reversing the controversial changes. "This is the only quick way to roll back the situation," she wrote, calling on fellow lawmakers to co-sign the new legislation. Read also: We know how to stand up for our rights Ukrainians protest law threatening anti-corruption institutions The controversial law passed on July 22 redefines NABU and SAPO as regular law enforcement agencies rather than independent bodies. Under the new framework, the prosecutor general will have the authority to influence investigations, issue procedural orders, and block cases brought by anti-corruption prosecutors practices that the current institutional design was explicitly created to prevent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The changes effectively dismantle the autonomy that allowed NABU and SAPO to pursue high-level corruption cases without political interference. The legislation was passed with little public debate and amid warnings from Ukraine's anti-corruption watchdogs, who called it a "death blow" to Ukraine's already fragile anti-corruption architecture. Legal experts and officials, including SAPO head Oleksandr Klymenko, warned that the law breaches multiple constitutional norms and undermines obligations Ukraine made to the European Union as part of its membership bid. Ukraine's civil society, the European Commission, and anti-corruption NGOs have spoken out against the reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. When mountain runner Michelino Sunseri climbed and descended Grand Teton in record time last September, he posted information about his route on social media. According to the National Park Service (NPS) and the Justice Department, Sunseri thereby implicated himself in a federal misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail. Although the NPS later reconsidered its recommendation that Sunseri should be prosecuted for his seemingly inadvertent use of an unapproved trail, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Wyoming tried Sunseri anyway. Two members of the House Judiciary Committee recently decried that baffling decision, saying it "appears to be a prime example of the problem of overcriminalization"a problem that President Donald Trump is avowedly keen to address. Sunseri's bench trial concluded on May 21, and U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie Hambrick has not announced her verdict yet. But Reps. Harriet Hageman (RWyo.) and Andy Biggs (RAriz.) want to know why federal prosecutors decided to pursue the case, especially in light of Trump's May 9 executive order urging restraint in deploying criminal penalties for regulatory violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That order expressed concern about "technical and unintentional regulatory violations that may expose individuals to criminal penalties for conduct they did not know was prohibited," Hageman and Biggs noted last week in a letter to Stephanie Sprecher, the acting U.S. attorney for Wyoming. "President Trump instructed all federal prosecutors to prioritize civil and administrative remedies over criminal enforcement where conduct was unintentional, non-harmful, or gained no advantage." The fact that Sunseri advertised his route strongly suggests he did not realize he was breaking the law. And as WyoFile noted after Sunseri's trial, the path that the NPS said he should not have taken, known as "the old climber's trail," is "a historic trail so well-used that it's become a skinny singletrack." In fact, Cato Institute legal fellow Mike Fox notes, "record holders before Sunseri had used the same trail, and tour guides who charge hefty sums frequently lead hikers up the same route. Only two tiny and ambiguous signs inform the public that the trail is off-limits." One of those signs, at the top of the trail, said "shortcutting causes erosion." The other sign, at the bottom of the trail, said "closed for regrowth." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ed Bushnell, one of Sunseri's attorneys, argued that his client was not "shortcutting," since he was using a long-established trail. Bushnell added that it was unclear whether the "closed" notice referred to the area around the sign or the trail beyond it. "There is no clear prohibition there," Bushnell said. "This is not conspicuous signage." After Sunseri was cited for using a prohibited trail, Hageman and Biggs say, he "took responsibility for his actions, expressed regret, and volunteered to help officially close the alternate path, which receives regular foot traffic." The U.S. Attorney's Office filed criminal charges anyway. The government's subsequent plea-deal offers were onerous given the nature of Sunseri's violation. In a May 19 email, Frank Lands, deputy director for operations at the NPS, described one of those proposals, which entailed a fine combined with a five-year ban from Grand Teton National Park, as "overcriminalization based on the gravity of the offense." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NPS "is withdrawing its criminal prosecution referral," Lands wrote. But that did not faze federal prosecutors. Hageman and Biggs want to know why. They asked Sprecher for "all documents and communications" regarding that decision, "the amount of taxpayer funding and department resources" devoted to Sunseri's prosecution, cases that the U.S. Attorney's Office has declined to prosecute since bringing charges against Sunseri, and any other steps the office has taken to comply with Trump's order. Sunseri's case illustrates the traps set by a code of federal regulations so vast and obscure that even experts can only guess at the number of criminal penalties it authorizesat least 300,000, they think. While tackling that thicket of prohibitions is a daunting task, the least federal prosecutors can do in the meantime is exercise some common-sense discretion. Copyright 2025 by Creators Syndicate Inc. The post Lawmakers Wonder Why a Mountain Climber Was Prosecuted for Climbing a Mountain appeared first on Reason.com. The Le Mars school district has agreed to prohibit religious groups from holding events on school grounds. (Photo via Getty Images) A northwest Iowa school district has agreed to prohibit religious organizations from holding events at schools after receiving a complaint about a Christian group holding National Day of Prayer celebrations on school grounds. The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), a nonprofit organization advocating for the separation of church and state and for nonreligious people, sent a letter to the Le Mars Community School District in June about a local religious group holding events on public school grounds on May 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May 1 celebrated as the National Day of Prayer by some Christians in Iowa, several religious organizations as well as officials like Gov. Kim Reynolds have hosted and participated in National Day of Prayer celebrations throughout the state. One of those celebrations in 2025 in Le Mars took place at the Le Mars Community Middle and High Schools. On May 1, the National Day of Prayer Facebook page for Le Mars made a post saying that their members had the joy of partnering with the Le Mars Youth Network for the celebration at the Le Mars schools. Students were welcomed with donuts, breakfast burritos, orange juice, and hot cocoaand more importantly, with open hearts and listening ears, the post stated. We took time to connect with students and asked them how we could be praying for them. It was a meaningful morning of ministry and encouragement. Join us as we continue to lift up the next generation in prayer. The social media post featured images showing adults with the religious organization on school grounds. Side by Side Ministries, the organization listed as a contact point on the Facebook page for the local National Day of Prayer group, did not respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sammi Lawrence, an attorney with the FFRF, said a person alerted their organization about this post. The FFRF contacted the school district with a complaint letter after receiving the information, she said, to notify the school asking them to cease allowing religious organizations to hold events and proselytize students on school grounds. At the event, adults outside the school system had come to the public schools and were encouraging students to pray and trying to get students to participate in the day of prayer and learn about it actions Lawrence said could be constitutionally problematic. Public schools shouldnt be giving outside adults, outside groups, special access to students on schools ground to tell students about their religious message, to try to get them to join their religious groups, or anything like that, Lawrence said. Because the First Amendment gives students the right to be free from religious indoctrination in their public schools. And that includes preventing schools from inviting or letting religious groups like this onto campus for the purpose of trying to recruit or proselytize students. In the letter to Le Mars Community School District, Lawrence wrote it is well-settled law that public schools may not show favoritism toward, nor promote or coerce belief in religion and that a public school allowing outside religious representatives onto school grounds for the purpose of promoting their religious beliefs violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment in the U.S. Constitution. The Establishment Clause prohibits the government from establishing or giving preferential treatment to any religion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the complaint from FFRF, Rachel Fritz, an attorney representing the Le Mars district, responded with a letter stating that the school district communicated with members of the local National Day of Prayer group, instructing them not to facilitate or lead in any prayer or devotional activities involving students on District property. The letter also stated the district has taken appropriate steps to ensure that any prayer activities occurring on school grounds are entirely student-led or student-initiated, in full compliance with applicable legal standards, including the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The school district did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. Lawrence said her organization receives multiple complaints related to the National Day of Prayer each year. Even when organizations like the Le Mars National Day of Prayer group have good intentions in trying to hold events at public schools, she said, these events can create difficult situations for students who are not Christian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When students who are atheist or agnostic, or who are just simply a faith other than Christian, come to school and see a Christian group being allowed on campus and proselytizing and encouraging prayer, that doesnt make them feel good that just makes everyone who doesnt believe in that feel like an outsider, feel like theyre not really part of the community, Lawrence said. And theres just, theres no need for that. Really, everyone is better off when schools just stay out of the religion business. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The death of Roy Black marks the passing of one of Americas most prominent criminal defense attorneys. Known for representing high-profile clients over a five-decade career, Black passed away on July 21, 2025, at his home in Coral Gables, Florida. Here are more details about Roy Blacks death. Roy Black cause of death explained Roy Black, the high-profile criminal defense attorney and husband of Real Housewives of Miami alum Lea Black, has died at the age of 80. He passed away on Monday, July 21, at his Coral Gables home after battling an illness. He is survived by his wife Lea, their son RJ, and his daughter Nora from a previous marriage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the news of his passing, Lea Black expressed gratitude on Instagram for the outpouring of support. She wrote, Thank you all for your blessings. We will be announcing details for a tribute and celebration of life in a few weeks. Though the exact cause of death has not been made public, reports confirm he had been unwell in recent months. Originally from New York, Black moved to Miami for his college and legal education. Over the course of his legal career, Black became widely known for representing prominent figures in major criminal cases. His high-profile cases included names such as William Kennedy Smith, Jeffrey Epstein, Justin Bieber, Peter Max, Joe Francis, Helio Castroneves, and Kelsey Grammer. Beyond the courtroom, Roy Black also contributed legal analysis for NBC News and appeared in the 2005 reality-based legal series The Law Firm. He wrote the book Blacks Law in 1999, offering insights into his experience. Black continued working at his Biscayne Boulevard law office up until his final days. His partner, Howard Srebnick, paid tribute following his death. Srebnick noted that Black was the greatest criminal lawyer of our generation, perhaps in American history. (via Bravo) Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon. The post Lea Blacks Husband Roy Black Passes Away at 80 appeared first on Mandatory. Democrats will soon face a significant test of their willingness to take on President Donald Trump with a fall funding deadline fast-approaching. And this time, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer doesnt want to become his partys bogeyman. Months after a contentious fight that put him at the center of anti-Trump Democratic outrage, Schumer is already taking steps to avoid, once again, being put in an impossible position between Democratic voters gunning for an ugly shutdown fight with Trump and his partys long-time stance that Democrats should fund the government. This time, they dont want to find themselves with little leverage to get out of a government shutdown with a Republican president. Members say Schumers strategy is to start laying the groundwork early for what will be a contentious and unpredictable post-August recess with the hope of avoiding the Democrats in disarray narrative that plagued the party in the spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We learned some lessons on what to do and not to do, one Democratic senator said of the difference between now and the March funding fight. Schumers working on trying to find a path that unifies us. On Tuesday, Democrats held a lengthy caucus-wide meeting on the path ahead and the Senate minority leader met with his House counterpart, Hakeem Jeffries, later in the day. Members and aides caution there is no formal plan yet for how to tackle Democrats next showdown with Trump, but its clear Schumer wants to shield his party from the intense backlash it faced from their voters in March and avoid his own black eye in the process. Finding consensus, however, wont be easy nor is it a guarantee in a diverse caucus where just nine members joined Schumer in voting with Republicans in March to keep the government open. Since then, Democrats reasons for challenging Trump have only grown. Republicans passed a massive tax and spending cuts bill that included historic slashes to Medicaid and food programs with just GOP votes. Republicans also voted last week to claw back $9 billion in federal funds for foreign aid and public broadcasting that had already been appropriated by Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres where I am. Unless the Republicans agree to a no rescissions clause, a vote on an appropriations bill is a fake, Sen. Angus King, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, told CNN. King was among those in the caucus who voted with Schumer and the GOP to keep the government open, but now King says he has not decided yet if hed be willing to do that again in the fall. Sen. Angus King walks to a vote on June 17. - Francis Chung/Politico/AP Why vote for an appropriation bill if two weeks from now they can submit a rescissions package and undo everything that is in the bill? King asked. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. I am not going to be fooled twice. The challenge for Democrats is that they are finding themselves between two realities. On the one hand, Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought and conservatives on Capitol Hill are signaling a willingness for steeper budget cuts that reflect the massive slashes from Trumps Department of Government Efficiency. On the other, Senate Democrats are also working cooperatively with Republicans on the appropriations panel to pass several of the bills to fund military and veterans, agriculture and the legislative branch with broad bipartisan support. And they realize that if the government does shut down - they may not have the leverage to reopen it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a real tension between Russ Vought and OMB and the rescissions vote, which are going right at a stable, steady appropriations process and what has been happening on committee so far, Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, the top Democrat on the Defense appropriations subcommittee, said. Tuesday night, most Senate Democrats joined Republicans on a procedural vote to advance the military and veterans spending bill on the floor, and Schumer signaled that Democrats dont want to stand in the way of advancing bipartisan spending bills that his members have worked hard on. But, there is still a number of factors outside of Schumers control. For one, House Republicans will manage their appropriations process. Already, conservatives are laying the groundwork for a full revolt if Speaker Mike Johnson tries to move ahead with a stopgap government funding measure known as a continuing resolution rather than passing all 12 individual spending bills. And even if the House could pass the dozen bills with their tight majority, they would many are likely to be nonstarters in the Senate where Republicans need 60 votes to advance their bills. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries signaled this week that Democrats were in no mood to help Republicans pass those bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its my expectation that if Republicans tried to jam a highly partisan spending bill down the throats of the American people here in the House well reject it, the New York Democrat said when asked by CNN if he would take the same tactic as last year in rejecting GOP spending bills. At the end of the day, Republicans control the trifecta, Sen. Mark Warner, a Democrat, said of the unpredictability of the next few months for the party. In March, Schumer defended his decision to vote with Republicans to keep the government open. He argued that not doing so would give Trump more power, not less. And he downplayed the divisions within his ranks even as some members openly clashed with him over his decision. But in recent weeks, Schumer has signaled hes open to preparing a number of options depending on how the spending talks unfold, and Democratic members say he has been deeply engaged for weeks on how to manage the September fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The minority leader held an impromptu press conference last week assailing comments from Vought that the appropriations process should be more partisan going forward. On the floor, Schumer warned Republicans that any passage of a spending cuts package with just GOP votes would poison the well for the September funding talks. Director of the Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought talks to reporters on July 15. - Ken Cedeno/Reuters Sen. Tim Kaine, a Democrat who voted against the stopgap funding bill in March, told CNN that Schumer clearly has taken lessons from the spring and carried them forward to this moment. I definitely know in the aftermath of that, he called all 47 of us. We were on recess the following week, he called all 47. What do you think? What should we do differently next time? I mean hes been very diligent in trying to seek advice and then also engage in significant discussions in the caucus about CRs and spending battles, Kaine said. There are signs that some Senate Democrats even those who were willing to vote for a stopgap measure to keep the government open last time arent as willing to repeat the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of Democrats are also clamoring for Republicans to put in writing that any spending deal they agree to wont be reversed later with a GOP-only package to pull back funding for programs they dont like. I dont understand what it means to negotiate an appropriations deal with Republicans unless they have put in writing that there will be no rescissions and no impoundment, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat, said. But Democrats like Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, who voted with Schumer to keep the government open in the Spring, warned the most important thing is that Republicans and Democrats in the Senate agree that they, not the executive branch, should be making the spending calls. This really shouldnt be a partisan issue. Its a which branch of government are you in and what kind of oversight to you want to have over the executive? she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for what Democrats learned from the spring fight, Shaheen offered one piece of guidance that she thinks Schumer is exercising now. I think in terms of lessons learned, I think the big lesson was we should have talked about it sooner and made it clear sooner what we thought was important to do. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen listens to a fellow lawmaker speak during a Senate Appropriations Committee meeting on July 10. - Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP In the House, some Democrats are also warning that early talk of a funding plan may help manage expectations from Democratic voters. A lot of people are looking for that silver bullet or that hidden stake that is going to take out Trump. Standing up on the appropriations bill is not going to be that, Rep. Adam Smith, a Democrat from Washington, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the GOP, many Republicans argue its up to Democrats to decide how contentious the next eight weeks will be. Democrats need to decide do you want a deal? Do you want a shut down? Do you want a CR? What do you want to do? Its really not our choice, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole said. I think a shutdown is a losing game for them. They should have learned that last time, but they beat up poor Chuck Schumer when he did the right thing, kept the government open and accepted the CR. CNNs Manu Raju, Ted Barrett and Molly English contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Posters inside courts offering immigrants legal assistance have been taken down, replaced by ones that encourage them to "self-deport." The help desk for children that once stood in one of the many hallways of the West Los Angeles Immigration Court no longer operates. And the waiting room is empty where families of children most who don't speak English or who had never been in a courtroom gathered for a rudimentary lesson on the legal system before their first appearance before a judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is no help anywhere," said Moises Morales, a 28-year-old Salvadoran who was appearing Tuesday in the West Los Angeles Immigration Court in the South Bay. The Trump administration ended a $28-million contract with nonprofits that provided an array of legal assistance to thousands of immigrants in California and beyond just as it infused $150 billion toward immigration and border enforcement. U.S. Immigration Court in downtown Los Angeles in March. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times) Lawyers who were paid to provide basic legal information are disappearing from courthouses that have become new tools for the administration's immigration crackdown. Immigrants are terrified that going to court will mean deportation. Over the last two months, once bipartisan-supported programs such as immigration help desks or legal orientation programs for those in detention have either been chopped altogether or taken over by the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morales, who is applying for asylum after fleeing violent gangs in El Salvador, said the court system can be confusing and that pro bono attorneys aren't taking cases. Finding basic information has been tough, he said. "It doesn't feel like an accident to me that the government kicked out the legal service providers who are providing basic information and support to people in court, and then started arresting and deporting people in court," said Sara Van Hofwegen, a lawyer who oversees these programs for Acacia Center for Justice, a national umbrella for other nonprofits and lawyers who provide the service. Alva, an immigrant whose partner was detained in court, cries while holding her daughter outside the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building this month in Manhattan. (Olga Fedorova / Associated Press) This month, groups that provide legal services for immigrants were struck another blow, when U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss in Washington ruled that the Trump administration can discontinue contracts with them and bring those services in-house. The decision is being appealed, but advocacy groups say decades of work is being dismantled as the administration seeks to cut off more avenues to legal immigration. "It means that people are getting picked up and detained and deported without any sort of due process or really any way to access basic legal information rights to help them understand their situation and help them advocate for themselves," Van Hofwegen said. The E. Barrett Prettyman courthouse in Washington, D.C., 2023. (Brendan Smialowski / AFP via Getty Images) The Department of Justice and the Executive Office for Immigration Review declined an interview, but immigration-enforcement hardliners say those facing deportation have a right to a lawyer, but taxpayers shouldn't have to pay for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "U.S. taxpayers, who are already straining under unreasonable burdens, should not be expected to cover the massive costs for legal aid programs that do little other than unreasonably and unnecessarily prolong removal proceedings," said Matthew O'Brien, deputy executive director of the Federation for American Immigration Reform. "In decomissioning these programs, EOIR has done nothing other than eliminate expenditures that were of highly dubious legality in the first place. No longer provided by the government are the court help desk, some representation for children and an orientation for families of children in deportation proceedings. The government said it will take over an orientation program for those detained and one for custodians of minors. Immigration advocates say that the programs proposed are so watered down that it is as if they've been functionally terminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Van Hofwegen said she has seen no sign of the promised new government programs but detention facilities in isolated parts of the state with few immigration attorneys are filling up in and conditions are deteriorating. She noted that even if the orientation program for people caring for immigrant children was active, people are increasingly too afraid to come to immigration court or talk to immigration officials, as the new services probably will require. The programs had offered a small reprieve in a complex legal system that favors those who can hire a lawyer. Low-income immigrants often can't afford an attorney and many times don't know whether they have a strong legal case or might be better off giving up. An FBI officer waits in a hallway outside a courtroom in the Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building in New York on June 11. (Charly Triballeau / AFP via Getty Images) Undetained asylum-seeking immigrants without a lawyer prevailed in 19% of their cases, according to a 2024 congressional report, while those with a lawyer prevailed in 60% of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evelyn Cedeno-Naik, an attorney with the Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project, which ran a legal help desk in Los Angeles and Orange County immigration courts, said calls have been pouring into the office. "The contracts have been terminated but the need is still there," she said. "People are very, very scared. We are seeing it every day." One of her clients, a mom with a 4-year-old, was in the middle of her asylum application when she was abruptly arrested and separated from her child. "Thankfully there's at least another person that can care for her child," Cedeno-Naik said. "But they are separated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman now has a lawyer. Federal agents detain a person, center left, after an immigration hearing inside the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building in June in New York. (Andres Kudacki / Getty Images) The rules of immigration courts are changing daily. The administration has cut off legal paths for thousands of immigrants to stay in the United States, terminating temporary protected status for some immigrants from Afghanistan and Cameroon, while pushing to end it for other countries such as Haiti. Government lawyers are asking judges to dismiss cases to fast-track deportation. Asylum cases that might once have been heard are being thrown out without a hearing. And families that had active cases and were regularly checking in with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials are getting arrested. Cedeno-Naik said everyone, including attorneys, are anxious about why the legal system is "being used in this way." And now, basic legal services meant to help people in what is often the most stressful and consequential moments of their lives are gone. The group has continued to provide legal assistance online in hopes of reaching as many people as possible, and also has some walk-in services. And she said, it is practical now with agents regularly arresting people in the courthouse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We try to offer those options for individuals," she said. "We know that getting the information is so important." 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. From left, New Mexico Department of Health officials Dr. Miranda Durham and Secretary Gina DeBlassie and Legislative Finance Committee Program Evaluators Maggie Klug and John Valdez testify before lawmakers on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM) Despite expanding the availability of medication-assisted treatment, state health officials only treated about 4% of the New Mexicans estimated to have opioid use disorders in public health offices, a report released Wednesday found. The finding was one of several Legislative Finance Committee analysts presented to lawmakers from a 38-page report evaluating the New Mexico Department of Health programs to address opioid and alcohol addiction treatments after a 2024 expansion of services offices in most counties in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While 9,100 New Mexicans have opioid use disorder requiring treatment, the New Mexico Department of Health only treated 321 people in public health offices during fiscal year 2024, with most offices treating fewer than 10 people. Only three people with alcohol use disorder were treated with medicated-assisted treatment over the same time frame. Analysts issued recommendations for state health officials to: centralize marketing and management of the program; set performance targets for treating more people in public health offices; report the data; pursue mobile clinics and better promote the treatment. NMDOH Secretary Gina DeBlassie told lawmakers she agreed with the assessment, saying the department was working to hire someone to lead the program, and that the department would expedite marketing efforts. We havent done enough in the community as it relates to getting the word out about our [Medication for Opioid Use Disorder] services DeBlassie told lawmakers. We recognize that. Were working on that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medication-assisted treatment, nicknamed MAT, includes medications that are proven to reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms from both opioids and alcohol. Experts say MAT is crucial to treating alcohol and opioid use in New Mexico,which has some of the highest rates in the nation. The state also delivers MAT through prison programs; the New Mexico Rehabilitation Center and Turquoise Lodge Hospital; and certain certified clinics. However, the expansion into public health offices was to offer services to underserved populations and decrease travel, according to past statements on the program. The majority of MAT is delivered by private providers, with Medicaid data showing that more than 10,000 New Mexicans sought treatment in 2024. Most people who sought MAT traveled to get it, according to Maggie Klug, a program evaluator for the Legislative Finance Committee. This highlights the need the public health offices are trying to meet, while also indicating that people may not be aware of the treatment available in the local public health offices, Klug said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Harlan Vincent (R-Ruidoso Downs) compared NMDOHs performance to a fire department only running 4% of the calls. DeBlassie responded that she agreed with the statement, adding that the departments program stalled in March 2025, and that NMDOH is committed to marketing the program and seeking additional referrals. There are individuals within the community that are in need of treatment, and I can guarantee they did not know that the public health office is a resource and were looking to change that, DeBlassie said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Top analyst sends message on pending ugly earnings miss (plus one big beat) originally appeared on TheStreet. Wall Street always punishes bad performers when quarterly results come around, but it seems as though earnings misses are really bringing out the worst in investors this time around. Just last week, the market action reinforced the idea that good is not enough, dropping Netflix by 5% last week despite the company raising its full-year guidance and beating its top and bottom lines. Likewise, big banks like Bank of America and JPMorgan suffered through muted gains when solid earnings and positive consumer news couldnt overcome the disappointment of not delivering even more. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Theres a growing disconnect between the quality of performance a company delivers and Wall Streets reaction to whether those numbers were enough. With the market back around record-high levels, strong results alone may not justify current levels. The trend is not unexpected. Before earnings season heated up, Annex Wealth Management Chief Economist Brian Jacobsen noted in one of his regular Market Musing posts that valuation should give investors pause right now. Valuations are poor timing tools, but they do help gauge upside and downside risks, Jacobsen wrote. Considering where valuations are, as earnings season begins, its reasonable to expect that earnings misses could have a bigger market impact than positive surprises. Market technicians are looking for earnings surprises.Image source: Shutterstock Nearly 40% of S&P 500 companies are overstating earnings With the stepped-up action around earnings season, the analysts at New Constructs dusted off a previously popular feature, looking at the companies that are most likely to miss earnings, as well as those that are poised for a big earnings beat. Related: S&P 500 rally causes a big valuation problem New Constructs methodology brings together discounted cash-flow analysis and forensic accounting, working backwards from most analysts by digging into a companys documents and the footnotes level and working up, rather than starting at the top-line and conducting the analysis only at a skin-deep level. As a result, New Constructs finds where the headline numbers mask a misleading situation. If that deception works in the favor of the investor, a stock is attractive, but if the numbers could mislead the investor into trouble, the stock is dangerous. The firms stock-picking routinely has been rated by SumZero at or near the top of multiple investment categories; SumZero is a buy-side community in which more than 15,000 professional portfolio managers compete for rankings. LENOX, Mass. (WWLP) Lenox Public Schools has been one of the few school districts in Massachusetts selected to receive an entire year of cost-free support from Day of AI. The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education (RAISE) initiative at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) created the Day of AI program in 2021. The programs goal is to prepare K-12 students to be successful and engaged in an increasingly AI-powered society. Holyoke Mall celebrates Christmas in July as part of Tykes Tuesday program Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Day of AI works with school districts around the globe to create artificial intelligence literacy programs. It also trains and educates teachers on how to use AI and AI-enabled tools to support their work. Responsible use of AI has become a prevalent issue at the forefront of school administrations across the nation. Our students are going to inherit a world vastly different than the one in which we grew up, where artificial intelligence plays a significant role, said Superintendent Dr. William Collins. We hope to strike a balance that preserves aspects of our traditional education model that have served students well, but at the same time, does not ignore or turn away from the potential impact of the astounding technological advances occurring on a near-daily basis. Lenox Public Schools will combine artificial intelligence training from the Day of AI partnership with support from other resources throughout the 2025-2026 school year. 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 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. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Police are often called upon to handle dangerous situations and react in a split second. Today, they have more tools at their disposal to deal with unruly people. There is no doubt that lives have been saved with the use of less-lethal weapons. The Hudson Police Department in Wisconsin allowed us to use this video. An officer fired a pepper spray gun to subdue a troubled young man with a knife. Hudson Police Chief Geof Willems says they saved a life that day. Captain Adam Zishka with the Minnehaha County Sheriffs office says less lethal options have saved lives in South Dakota too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe its not mental health, maybe its just a very bad time in their life, people are suffering from drug and alcohol addiction, and so their behavior is not representative of whats normal. That abnormal behaviors can cause them to do things that they wouldnt normally do, said Zishka. Jet on flight from Watertown crashes in Minnesota For Minnehaha County deputies, there are 4 main options available. First is the collapsible baton. Easy to carry, it provides deputies with a tool to manage situations where deadly force is not necessary or appropriate. Probably the most imposing less lethal option is the 40 millimeter projectile launcher. It shoots this soft baton, you can kind of see that its squishy, said Zishka. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Getting hit is like being punched really hard. It will leave a significant bruise on you, said Zishka. Pepper spray is another alternative, nowadays its more often used in the jail setting. Matt Aanenson is the training Sergeant at the jail, he showed us the PepperBall gun, used by the Wisconsin officers earlier in this report. Its basically a paintball, but it has an OC powder in it. Its this little sphere. Its got powder in it, and then you hit a cell, or you can also use it as pain compliance; its basically shot out of a paintball gun, said Aanenson. When it comes to less lethal options, at the top of the list is the taser. Nothing has made more of an impact on police work in the past few decades. The taser fires darts that deliver an electric shock, disrupting the targets nervous system for about 5 seconds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve invested a lot into our Taser program because we see a marked value in it. One of the biggest things we can do with it is we can point it at someone, a lot of times, that will compel compliance, and then that is the end of the situation, said Zishka. In other words, just the appearance of the Taser is often enough to stop bad behavior. Attorney General Marty Jackley says less lethal options are important and have their place, but he wants people to realize they are not always an option. For instance, when a South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper shot and wounded a suspect near Beresford in April. A DCI review of the shooting found the use of force was justified because they believe the suspect was reaching for a gun when he was shot. We need to be careful because you know. I have, as Attorney General, gone to too many law enforcement funerals. And the training needs to be there, so that certainly when the opportunity arises, we want to encourage the use of less lethal force, said Jackley. Captain Zishka says deputies are trained to use deadly force if necessary, but look for opportunities to use less lethal options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keeping the public safe is our main goal, and this helps us to do that, said Ziska. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. For the first time, two letters written by Japanese Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto the architect behind the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor have been made public. Donated by the naval officers descendants, the two letters are now on display at the Fukushima Museum in Japan to mark the 80th anniversary of V-J Day this year. While once decried as a villain, postwar investigations of Yamamoto have considerably changed the picture of the Japanese admiral. This week, letters written by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto in early 1942 while aboard the battleships Nagato and Yamato will be made public for the first time. In the letters to his wife's parents, Yamamoto expressed concern over Japan's euphoria following the attack on Pearl Harbor, pic.twitter.com/BDnkyu6iA0 U.S. Naval Institute (@NavalInstitute) July 17, 2025 It was a peculiar tragedy of Japans ultranationalist psychodrama, writes Ian Toll in his trilogy on the Pacific War, that the men best qualified to deal with the West were shunted to the margins of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toshikazu Kase, a chief secretary to the foreign minister throughout the war years, put it more bluntly when he wrote, Events sometimes overwhelm you, surge around you, and carry you along. You cant always move them. One mans will is not enough to do anything. War has a life of its own. View of Pearl Harbor looking southwesterly from the hills northward. Taken during the Japanese raid on Dec. 7, 1941, with anti-aircraft shell bursts overhead. (National Archives) Yamamoto was among those officers left adrift among the growing tides of war. While not shunted to the margins of power, the admiral was torn between a sense of patriotic duty and the reality on the ground. On Oct. 14, 1940, Yamamoto wrote to Kumao Harada, secretary to Prince Saionji: To fight the United States is like fighting the whole world. But it has been decided. So I will fight the best I can. Doubtless I shall die on board Nagato. Meanwhile Tokyo will be burnt to the ground three times. According to NHK World Japan, the letters on display were sent to the naval officers wifes parents in Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Museum officials note that the content of the letters relay that Yamamoto was calmly assessing the early stages of the war. One of the letters, dated Jan. 13, 1942, was written while aboard his flagship Nagato (one month later the Yamato would become the admirals flagship). He wrote that he engaged in a mission of heavy responsibility and that while it managed to achieve a minor victory, this was due to the United States inattention and negligence. A full-scale battle, he continued, would start later. The other letter on display, dated April 1942, was written while he was aboard the Yamato in which he discussed his desire to visit the graves of his ancestors after the war. Members of the Yamamoto Mission, including Capt. Thomas Lanphier Jr., third from left, front row. (National Archives) Yamamoto would be killed one year later, on April 19, 1943, over the skies above Bougainville in the Solomon Islands. The hatred among the Americans for the mastermind of Pearl Harbor was palpable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the American flyboys, Maj. John W. Mitchell, commanding officer of the U.S. Army Air Forces 339th Fighter Squadron, reportedly asked upon receiving the mission to kill the admiral, Whos Yamamoto? Capt. Thomas Lanphier Jr. simply said, Pearl Harbor. Were going to get this bird, the Navy planners told Rear Adm. Marc A. Mitscher and Lanphier. We mean for you to nail him if you have to ram him in the air. To the editor: The story of Javier Diaz Santana is truly heartbreaking ( Deaf, mute and terrified: ICE arrests DACA recipient and ships him to Texas, July 22). It is just one of many disturbing stories the Los Angeles Times has reported over the past few months. How many do we need to read before we Americans acknowledge that the land of the free and home of the brave has become the locus of cruelty? That really is the point. While I am at it, the Department of Homeland Securitys offer of $1,000 to "self-deport," with a chance to return legally to live the American dream later, is more than likely a false promise. In light of the administrations recent actions, I think we can dispel the notion that legal immigration to the U.S. involves filling out an application, proving that you are a good person, then waiting in line. Unless an individual qualifies under one of the categories for immigrant visas, mostly related to family or profession, there is little chance of immigrating legally without being harassed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The U.S. government should stop making false promises and raising hopes. There is no hope, just more lies and more cruelty. Laurie Jacobs, San Clemente Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement .. To the editor: Please tell me that Diaz will be suing the federal government for what it has done and is doing to him. I feel as if I'm living in a dystopian state. When I see the DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's commercial on television attempting to sell the public on the lie that it is the worst of the worst that are being rounded up by ICE agents, the rhetoric reminds me of the North Korean "news" broadcasters touting the actions of their "dear leader." Ronald Webster, Long Beach .. To the editor: It was with great sadness and alarm that I read the July 22 stories of the detentions of Diaz and Narciso Barranco ( 3 U.S. Marine brothers faced toughest mission: Getting their dad freed from ICE custody, July 22). The brutality and inhumane treatment these men experienced at the hands of ICE should worry every citizen. Immigrants, legal or illegal, are human beings and deserve to be treated with respect and knowledge that they have legal rights. Carol Karas, Camarillo This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. To the editor: Guest contributor Mark Brilliant makes his opinions clear but fails to convince ( Anti-Zionism is antisemitism university leaders settle the question, July 21). His assertion regarding the House testimony ignores how the Trump administration has punished students and researchers at schools that failed to toe its line. Brilliant claims anti-Zionism is "denying to the Jewish people the right to self-determination. Here is the question he should ask: Is Zionism a denial of the Palestinians right to self-determination? Further, were the Palestinian people treated fairly by the partition of their land? Should we continue to support Israel's 70 years of gradual seizure of more Palestinian land in the West Bank, its intention in the long run to prevent the Palestinians from ever having a state of their own and the violence that has ensued as both side's extremists fight for their "rights"? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is the revulsion many of us feel about how Israel is slaughtering civilians in Gaza "anti-Zionism" or human decency? Few Americans question Israel's right to exist, but many question the senseless violence of its government in response to the senseless violence of Hamas. Michael Snare, San Diego .. To the editor: Brilliant takes an affirmative response to a gotcha question (Is denying the Jewish people their rights to self-determination antisemitism? Yes or no?) and leaps to his desired conclusion: that the university officials agreed that anti-Zionism is antisemitic. But he is wrong when he says that the Jewish right to self-determination is the textbook definition of Zionism. In fact, Zionism is the movement to establish a Jewish state in biblical Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe everyone has a right to self-determination, so I might have answered the gotcha question affirmatively too. But no one has the right to occupy land where others live just as no one has a right to seize homes and orchards, to tell people where they must live and that they cant leave or to deny others their right to self-determination by basing democratic rights such as the right to vote or the right to travel on ones ethnicity. And, of course, no one has a right to bomb hospitals and starve children. It is not antisemitic of me to say so. Clyde Leland, Berkeley .. To the editor: In response to Brilliants op-ed that equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism, I would like to point out that people who criticize Zionism probably dont object to Jewish rights to self-determination or statehood. The problem is real estate. The Bible may have promised the land of Israel to the Jews, but if you look at things from a strictly historical perspective, a lot more non-Jews have lived on the land in question than Jews. Many of the people who established the state of Israel came from Europe (for admittedly good reasons) and pushed the native Arab population into refugee camps where its lived for the last 70-odd years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now government officials in Israel and the U.S. are talking openly about completely removing this population. Thats ethnic cleansing, and as uncomfortable as it is for many to admit, its hard to see that ethnic cleansing is not intrinsic to Zionism. You cant establish a Jewish state in a place where other people already live without kicking those people out. Thats what people dont like about Zionism. If you could take away the mandatory Arab eviction part, I dont think anybody would have a problem with it. William Griffith, Oxnard This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Denise Gray, a member of the Urban County Council, will hold a news conference Wednesday morning to discuss her political future. Gray announced in June she will not seek reelection, citing treatment by media following her sexual assault allegations against former council member Brenda Monarrez last year. Her term ends in 2027. The Urban County Council is the legislative body that makes the laws for Lexington-Fayette County. It includes 12 district members and three at-large council members, one of whom serves as the vice mayor. They vote to set budgets, policies and taxes in accordance with city and state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gray accused Monarrez in August 2024 of sexually assaulting her. Gray applied for and was awarded a restraining order, called an interpersonal protection order, alleging Monarrez was sexually aggressive toward her on two occasions over the prior three years. The judge who granted the three-year restraining order found that sexual assault did occur between the women. Sexual assault under state statue also includes sexual abuse. No criminal charges have been filed against Monarrez. As a result of the sexual assault claims, Monarrez was banned from entering city hall and attending Democratic party events. Monarrez, who represented District 4, lost her seat to Emma Curtis in November 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gray, originally elected in 2022, represents District 6, which includes part of East Lexington between New Circle Road and I-75, including Hamburg and Bryan Station. She is a former Fayette County Public Schools employee and ran unsuccessfully for state senate in 2018. She lost to Ralph Alvarado who claimed 53% of votes. An Illinois man will spend the next four years in federal prison for carrying out an investment fraud scheme that resulted in $1.6 million in losses to more than 100 investors in Wisconsin and Illinois. Court records show Ronald Pallek, 55, of McHenry, Illinois, was sentenced on July 22 by Brett Ludwig, a U.S. District Court judge in Wisconsin's eastern district, where the case was filed. Federal prosecutors allege in court papers Pallek engaged in a years long scheme during which he convinced friends, friends of friends, and family members to give him money to invest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Wisconsin's State Bar settles lawsuit, agrees to curb DEI language from programs He promised his investors he could double their money using an iron condor investment strategy, even though Pallek knew that he had never been able to generate such profits. Iron condor is a low-volatility, limited-risk investment strategy that involves selling both a call option with a higher strike price and a "put option" with a lower strike price. Prosecutors say despite losing his victims funds in the market or spending them for his own benefit, Pallek continued to solicit additional victims. He also promised commissions to those he had previously defrauded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Chadwick Elgersma is the Acting U.S. Attorney for Wisconsin's Western District. Who is he? Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, said in a statement Pallek repeatedly sent falsified earning statements to his victims and lied about his purported successes. Pallek also made Ponzi-style payments to some of his earlier victims with money from his new victims. Frohling said the investigation also revealed that Pallek used the funds to pay his mortgage, his car, for gambling activities and other living expenses. In announcing his sentence, Ludwig noted Pallek engaged in a serious criminal enterprise and kept his scheme going by cultivating trust with friends and acquaintances and through repeated acts of deceit and false conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Milwaukee man gets 12-year prison sentence for robbing postal workers Ludwig also ordered Pallek to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $1.68 million in restitution. Mr. Pallek abused the trust of his victims, targeting hard-working individuals and small business owners, Frohling said in the statement. The sentence in this case reflects not only the significant financial but also the long-lasting emotional harm Mr. Pallek inflicted. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Julie F. Stewart, an Assistant U.S. Attorney based in Milwaukee. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 'Iron condor' scheme defrauded dozens of Wisconsin investors Following victim impact statements on Wednesday morning, Ada County, Idaho, Judge Steven Hippler handed Bryan Kohberger life in prison without parole for the murders of four University of Idaho students. Kohberger, a 30-year-old former Ph.D. criminology student, admitted guilt earlier this month to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary in the 2022 murders of four Idaho college students, Madison Mogen, 21, Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. This is the greatest tragedy that can be inflicted upon a person, Hippler said with emotion in his voice. Parents who took their children to college, in a truck filled with moving boxes, had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins. Judge Steven Hippler speaks at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. | Kyle Green We are now certain who committed these unspeakable acts of evil, he added, but the public may never know why. Kohberger declined to speak before he was sentenced. Friends and families share their grief Family members and close friends of the victims delivered impact statements at the Boise, Idaho, courthouse, with Kohberger present and listening to their remarks, showing little to no emotion to the harsh comments made about him. Benjamin Mogen, father of Madison Mogen, cries at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. | Kyle Green The first remarks were a statement prepared by Bethany Funke, one of the two roommates who were in the home and survived the night Kohberger carried out the crime. A friend of hers read the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never in a million years would I have thought that something like this would have happened to my closest friends, her statement said, recounting what had been her worst nightmare. Why me? Why did I get to live and not them? Funke asked. During the early hours of Nov. 13, 2022, the four victims were killed at their college home in Moscow, Idaho. Six weeks later, Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania at his parents home. Steve Goncalves consoles Kristi Goncalves, mother of victim Kaylee Goncalves at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. | Kyle Green Kohberger entered a plea deal, preventing him from possible capital punishment if found guilty, but detectives said they would have used DNA evidence that linked Kohberger to the crime scene, his online purchase history, surveillance video of Kohbergers car, and cellphone data that showed him in the vicinity of the killings, if the case had gone to trial, per CBS News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No evidence has been given of Kohberger having any prior relationship with the victims. Cara Northington, mother of victim Xana Kernodle, wipes a tear at the sentencing hearing of Bryan Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. | Kyle Green As different family members of the victims spoke on Wednesday, their feelings toward the prosecution allowing Kohberger to avoid the death penalty were mixed; even President Donald Trump shared his opinions on the decision. Bryan Kohberger, who was responsible, in Idaho, for the deaths of four wonderful young souls, has made a plea bargain deal in order to avoid the Death Penalty. These were vicious murders, with so many questions left unanswered, Trump posted on Truth Social. While Life Imprisonment is tough, its certainly better than receiving the Death Penalty but, before Sentencing, I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders. There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING. People were shocked that he was able to plea bargain, but the Judge should make him explain what happened. White House press secretary Karolin Leavitt also opened her weekly press briefing Wednesday afternoon with a message to the families of the Idaho victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are so sorry for the grief and the pain you have experienced at the hands of such a vicious and evil killer, she said. Our nation grieves with you, and we will never forget the precious souls who were lost in this horrific act of evil. Leavitt added that if the decision fell upon Trump, he would make Kohberger explain himself. A new study finds that lightning kills some 320 million trees around the world each year, more than was previously thought. And that figure could rise in the decades ahead as increasingly hot and humid weather fuels more lightning, particularly in forested parts of the Far North. To study the impact of lightning, scientists had, in the past, tallied the number of trees that appear to have been struck. But its not always obvious which trees were struck. Some dead trees are so decomposed that they bear no obvious signs of a strike, while others may succumb only months later. The new study uses on-the-ground observations and global lightning data to model the number of trees lost globally to strikes. Were now able not only to estimate how many trees die from lightning strikes annually, but also to identify the regions most affected, said lead author Andreas Krause, of the Technical University of Munich. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists looked only at the number of trees lost to lightning strikes and did not tally the trees that perish in resulting wildfires. Still, they found that trees killed directly by strikes unleash around a billion tons of carbon dioxide yearly, roughly as much as is emitted by Japan. The findings were published in Global Change Biology. The studys authors say that while lightning is currently deadliest for trees in the tropics, particularly in Africa, it could pose a growing threat at higher latitudes as the planet warms. Said Krause, Most climate models project an increase in lightning frequency in the coming decades, so its worth paying closer attention to this largely overlooked disturbance. ALSO ON YALE E360 Lightning Strikes the Arctic: What Will It Mean for the Far North? This is The Takeaway from today's Morning Brief, which you can sign up to receive in your inbox every morning along with: The Chart of the Day What we're watching What we're reading Economic data releases and earnings Strategy (MSTR) makes it look easy. Put larger amounts of bitcoin (BTC-USD) on your balance sheet and watch the numbers get bigger. The corporate finance maneuver has drawn a loyal following. But while executives are imitating the process, not everyone is replicating the results. On Monday, Trump Media (DJT) announced it had purchased $2 billion in bitcoin and related securities as part of its bitcoin treasury strategy. The move is the latest example of public companies purchasing bitcoin and, now, ethereum (ETH-USD) to capitalize on rising token prices. Sign up for the Yahoo Finance Morning Brief Subscribe By subscribing, you are agreeing to Yahoo's Terms and Privacy Policy Counting those purchases, President Trump's namesake media group said bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency, now comprises two-thirds of its total of $3 billion in liquid assets. But just because companies are trying to emulate Strategy's (ne Microstrategy) astronomical success doesn't mean that they will. As my colleagues David Hollerith and Laura Bratton have reported, dozens of companies have increased their exposure to the digital asset since 2023. Eighty firms have adopted the bitcoin standard by adding bitcoin to their treasury reserves, according to Bernstein analyst Gautam Chhugani and data tracked by Coinkite. But it isn't an infallible strategy. While Trump Media shares surged following the purchase announcement, the stock has been struggling. Shares are down more than 40% for the year. GameStop (GME), another imitator of Michael Saylor's bitcoin-holding company, has shed 25% so far this year. The meme stock turned "hodler" is down by roughly the same percentage since disclosing its bitcoin-accumulation program in May. Trump Media said it acquired the cryptocurrencies as part of a previously disclosed plan to become a bitcoin treasury company. And the purchase comes on the heels of a promising week in Washington for the crypto industry, which has lobbied for more favorable oversight. The biggest legislative victory yet arrived on Friday when President Trump signed into law a bill that establishes the first federal framework for dollar-backed stablecoins. (Trump and his family have several crypto ventures, including a startup that has launched its own US-dollar-pegged stablecoin (USD1) in partnership with BitGo.) Read more: How would Trump's strategic bitcoin reserve work? None of the corporate adherents to the Strategy blueprint has managed to generate the same kind of performance, however. Shares of Strategy have more than doubled over the past year and have climbed roughly 50% year to date. After accounting for the company's latest purchases, Strategy now owns more than 3% of all the bitcoin ever minted. LINCOLN, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Two Lincoln residents were sentenced for beating and stabbing their neighbors dog, which eventually died from its injuries, according to court documents. Robert Maltese, 55, and Alane Maltese, 61, were arrested in February 2024 after they were accused of attacking their neighbors 16-year-old, blind Pomeranian with a pitchfork and machete. On July 21, Robert and Alane Maltese negotiated guilty pleas to aggravated cruelty to a dog, cat or horse and tampering with physical evidence charges. Robert Maltese also pleaded guilty to a hindering apprehension charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both were sentenced to six years of probation and a $1,000 fine, according to a sentencing order. Probation conditions for Robert Maltese show that he will have to turn himself in on Aug. 1 to serve a 120-day prison sentence. Alane Maltese will have to complete 400 hours of community service within one year of her sentence. A preliminary police report said on Feb. 16, 2024, officers responded to a disturbance on Tara Road in Lincoln around 8 a.m. The caller said her neighbor beat her dog with a metal object and took the dog into her house. Fayetteville man accused of shooting at groom in Springdale wedding When police arrived, the dogs owner told police she went out to her car when she heard yelling coming from the road and saw her dog standing in the road. The dogs owner said she saw her neighbor, Alane, run from her yard toward the dog with a metal bar-like object in her hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The owner told police Alane threatened to kill her and her dog. The owner said Alane then grabbed her dog and began beating it with the metal object before taking the dog into her house. The owner said Alane then got in her car and left. The report says multiple members of the owners household and neighbors said they saw the same thing. A neighbor told police he saw Robert walk outside with the dog and stuff it into a black trash can. The neighbor said Robert stabbed the dog with a pitchfork while it was in the trash can. The neighbor said he could hear the dog whelping and moaning while it was being struck by the pitchfork. The neighbor told police Robert took the dog out of the black trash can and stuffed it into a white five-gallon bucket, which he took back inside his house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report says the owner recorded Robert on her phone walking around the property with what appeared to be a white bucket, a short time later, as well as Alane placing the metal object on the front porch and leaving the scene in her car. According to the report, the video captured Robert telling the owner he didnt understand Alanes actions and that she was mentally ill. The report said police spoke with Robert, who told police he didnt know what was going on. He said he woke up to yelling between Alane and the dogs owner. He told police he came outside and saw Alane chase the dog back into the owners property. He told police Alane didnt hit the dog with anything, and the dog safely made it back to the owners home. According to the report, Robert told police Alane had a family emergency, which is why she left. Police were able to get Alanes phone number and call her, where she gave the same story as Robert, except she said she was getting gas in Siloam Springs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bella Vista man gets 18 years for using AI to make child sexual abuse materials Robert refused to let police search his home for the dog, but let them search his trash cans. Police called Alane once more, and she said she was on her way to Colorado and hung up. The report said Alane refused to answer any questions about the incident. According to the report, police obtained a search warrant and used it to search Roberts home, where they found the dog still alive but severely injured inside a white five-gallon bucket with an air-tight lid on it. The bucket was under a cabinet with a large water jug in front. The metal object used to allegedly beat the dog was found to be the flat side of a black machete, which was found on the front porch of the home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robert was arrested and taken to the Washington County Detention Center. He was later released to the Division of Corrections. Alane was found by police several miles north, parked at a church, and was arrested. The dog was taken to a vet by its owner. The vet told the Washington County Sheriffs Office that it will be euthanized due to the severity of its injuries, which include a fractured skull, ribs, front leg and lacerations to the bone of the leg. As part of their sentences, both have been ordered not to own, possess, live with or otherwise intentionally come into contact with any animal. The judge assigned to the case ordered the bucket, machete and pitchfork used in the attack to be seized and destroyed. Advertisement 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. Jul. 23Hawaii may have volcanos, but New Mexico has a supervolcano. The Valles Caldera is celebrating its silver anniversary as a national preserve this weekend. Or check out these other super events. Got an event we should know about? Reach out to features@abqjournal.com. 25 years young The Valles Caldera is celebrating 25 years of national preserve status with a host of events this weekend. Visitor can enjoy cultural demonstrations, guest speakers and ranger programs, silent disco, stargazing and more on Friday, July 25, through Sunday, July 27. Several anniversary events require advance registration and park entrance fees, $15-$25, apply. Visit nps.gov/vall for the full schedule of events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Howdy partners Celebrate the National Day of the Cowboy from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 26. The free event features Western music, cowboy poetry, book readings and more. The Best Western is located at 1015 Rio Grande Blvd. NW. Be prepared! The Cardboard Playhouse Theatre Company is bringing "Disney's The Lion King Jr." to the University of New Mexico Rodey Theatre stage. You can "Feel the Love Tonight" at 7 p.m. Friday, July 25; 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27; with repeats through Aug. 3. Tickets are $15, plus fees, at cardboardplayhouse.org. Honoring history Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Historic Fairview Cemetery is collaborating with the New Mexico Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club in commemorating National Buffalo Soldiers Day at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 26. The day honors the earliest African American troops in the U.S. military. The event will feature a guided tour of Buffalo Solider grave sites. Historic Fairview Cemetery is located at 700 Yale Blvd. SE. Best of the best The National Federation of State Poetry Societies' Blackberry Peach National Poetry Slam is bringing competitors from around the country to determine the U.S. representative at the World Poetry Slam. On Thursday, July 24, preliminaries are set for 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., followed by themed open mic at 10:30 p.m. The National Underground Poetry Individual Competition takes place at 11 p.m. Friday, July 25. On Saturday, July 26, eventgoers can watch the haiku slam at 6:30 p.m., the finals stage at 8:30 p.m. and open mic at 11 p.m. The event is free, but a donation of $20 is suggested. The Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel is located at 2910 Yale Blvd. SE. Visit nfsps.net for more information. Tune in Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Albuquerque Concert Band is performing a free concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 30. Eventgoers can bring lawn chairs or blankets to New Mexico Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE. Defying expectations Movies in the Park is bringing you a free Emerald City double feature Friday, July 25, with a screening of "The Wizard of Oz" at 6 p.m. and "Wicked" at 8 p.m. Click your ruby slippers and say there's no place like Balloon Fiesta Park, 5500 Balloon Fiesta Parkway. --- AUSTIN (Nexstar) Texas lawmakers convened Wednesday for the first hearing of the Joint Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding. The 18 senators and representatives heard invited testimony about the states response and preparedness for the devastating Independence Day floods in Central Texas, which killed over 130 people. The committees, chaired by Rep. Ken King, R-Canadian, in the House, and Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, in the Senate, were convened in response to Gov. Greg Abbotts call to address weather emergency warning systems and flood relief in his special session proclamation. Some legislation has already been filed, with more on the way. The first hearing of the committee discussed the states response to the flooding, the states disaster preparedness more generally, flood planning and infrastructure, river authority operations in Flash Flood Alley and first responder communications during disasters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are better than this: Lawmakers address flood response Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd highlighted issues on communication, coordination and organization including volunteer struggles after the disaster. Kidd also advocated for his department, urging for more funds so the department could expand on their four statewide bases. I need 4,5 more. I would like to be no more than three hours from every Texan, Kidd said. While Texans came together to help each other after the flood devastations, organizing volunteers was another problem the state and local government lacked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kidd supported for stronger control of volunteers, noting that the lack of organization slowed down the response for help. But theyre not organized which makes us stop what were doing to get them organized and slows down the response, Kidd said. The committee met well into the night at the Capitol. No public testimony was permitted at this hearing, but a second hearing will take place in Kerrville July 31 with public testimony permitted for residents to speak about their experience. What to know: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow along for updates from Wednesdays 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 KXAN Austin. LORAIN, Ohio (WJW) Police officials have identified the three Lorain police officers who were shot on Wednesday afternoon. A gunman laying in wait with an arsenal of weapons opened fire Wednesday on two Lorain police officers 35-year-old Phillip Wagner and 51-year-old Peter Gale who had parked side-by-side in their patrol cars to have lunch. A third officer, 47-year-old Brent Payne who responded to help was also shot, Lorains Acting Police Chief Michael Failing told reporters on Wednesday evening. Peter Gale, 51-years-old. Hired 2/2022 Brent Payne, 47-years-old, Hired 12/2011 Phillip Wagner, 35-years-old, Hired 2/2022 It was the citys first major police shooting in 70 years, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local police departments react to Lorain shooting that injured 3 officers Wagner and Payne were shot multiple times and were ultimately flown to a Cleveland hospital, where they were still being treated on Wednesday evening, Failing said. Gale was shot in the hand and treated at a Lorain hospital. Just after 1 p.m. on Wednesday, the officers parked to eat at the dead end of Missouri Avenue, in an industrial area, Failing said. More officers arrived to assist, loading up the three officers in their police vehicles and driving them to the hospital, Failing said. All of these men and woman behind me came running to help, into a hail of gunfire, Jay McDonald, president of the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, said on Wednesday, flanked by local officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Jack Bradley said Gov. Mike DeWine and U.S. Sen. Jon Husted called him to offer their support. This is a tragic day in the city of Lorain, but were a strong city, he said. Were going to move forward. We welcome all your prayers and all your support for the police officers and the citizens of Lorain. Elyria police are now investigating the shooting. Police Chief James Welsh told reporters on Wednesday afternoon suspect ambushed the officers with a high-powered rifle, he said. The officers then returned fire. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene, though Welsh could not confirm whether the suspect was shot and killed by officers or whether he died by suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a difficult day for the Lorain Police Department and the law enforcement community, Welsh said. We pray for the officers families. I want to extend my prayers and condolences to the Lorain Police Department and all the law enforcement officers that responded here today to assist in this investigation. Lorain Schools, Ohio officials respond after 3 officers shot Welsh said authorities are confident they have identified the suspect whose last known address was in Lorain but he declined to release the mans name. He is believed to have been the only suspect involved in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This area is safe, Welsh said, adding that multiple tactical teams searched the area on Wednesday. Theres no danger to anybody who travels along Colorado Avenue. River Bend Drive terminates near a wooded area not far from the Black River, Welsh said. Lorain County Sheriffs Office Maj. A.J. Torres confirmed to FOX 8 News that authorities found explosives in the suspects car at the scene of the ambush. The Lorain County Bomb Squad detonated several suspicious items found in the car, Torres said. If youre in the area of Colorado Ave or Kansas Ave on the East Side of Lorain and hear loud explosions, please be aware it is a controlled detonation being conducted by the Lorain County Sheriffs Office Bomb Squad. There is no threat to the public, deputies wrote in a Wednesday Facebook post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspicious items were also found and removed from the suspects home on North Lakeview Boulevard, officials confirmed Wednesday night. WJW photo WJW photo (SkyFOX) Third convict sentenced after 6-year-old boy was mauled by pit bull while handcuffed as punishment in Savannah Two officers were seriously injured and flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, a Level I Trauma Center. Another officer was transported to Mercy Health Lorain Hospital. Elyria police are leading the investigation, with support from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Anyone with information on the shooting is urged to call Elyria police at 440-323-3302. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDonald said 166 Ohio police officers were shot in the first six months of 2025. He called for the community to band together in condemning violence against law enforcement. Every day, these heroes behind me come to work to continue to protect and serve their communities, knowing this violence continues to reign down on the men and woman who swore an oath to protect people they dont even know, he said. This live blog below has since been archived. Find previous updates below: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A Satsuma man was found guilty on six counts of video voyeurism after a jury deliberated for just under two hours. Christopher Lee Johnson, 41, was convicted by a jury on July 10 following a two-day trial in Livingston Parish. The case stems from an August 2022 investigation launched by the Livingston Parish Sheriffs Office (LPSO) after a victim discovered a memory card containing more than 300 videos from a hidden bathroom camera. Detectives identified two victims from the videos. Johnson was arrested on Aug. 12, 2022, and his phone was seized as part of the investigation. LPSOs IT team cracked the phones password and found a hidden app with more images and videos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities later identified four more victims, including one juvenile. 2 killed in overnight crash on Highland Road, coroner confirms The jury, with eight men and four women, took less than two hours to reach a guilty verdict on all counts. Assistant District Attorney Brett Sommer prosecuted the case, with Judge Erika Sledge presiding. Johnson will be sentenced on Aug. 5. Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. Lizard on the loose captivates Worcester County town, reptile hunters, as search continues The search for Goose a five-foot long water monitor lizard that escaped his Blueberry Lane home Friday continues in Webster. Police responded to the neighborhood Friday morning. They say the animal can be dangerous is cornered, and is poisonous but not lethal. I think Goose, if hes not found, is going to become some urban legend here for time to come, said police chief Michael Shaw. Were hopeful he pops his little head out somewhere. Shaw and the Webster Police department are no longer actively searching for the loose lizard. They are hoping someone is able to spot him and report it to authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, he asked people not to go looking for the animal. Shaw explained, Weve had some calls. I think we had a call, I want to say from somebody in Brazil, offering to come up and try to find him. That call came from Jean-Paul LaPierre, a Weymouth man who was vacationing in Brazil with his family when he heard about the story. I totally disagree with them, LaPierre told Boston 25 regarding Websters decision to stop the search. Ill find that in an hour! Thats all I need one hour! LaPierre is a self-proclaimed reptile expert who grew a passion for the animals growing up in Western Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes caught some of the largest reptiles that have been on the loose over the last few decades statewide. Now, he plans to track down Goose this Friday in Webster. Its going to be looking for water, he said. If that animals hungry and you step the wrong direction, you will get bit by it. Thats a good size animal! AI images and memes about the loose lizard have flooded Webster social media pages. Others, like Pete Tarbox, are taking the craze to a new level. The Webster man now wears a lizard onesies across town. Its been silly, he told Boston 25 Tuesday. Were a fun town. The Massachusetts Environmental Police say this is an active investigation, and its unclear if the owners will face charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Webster Police say it is illegal to own a water monitor in Massachusetts without a permit. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) It was immediately apparent Rafael Estrada had been drinking when he showed up at an eighth-grade graduation party on May 28 that his estranged wife had pointedly told him not to attend. A strong smell of alcohol poured off him and he slurred his words a bad sign, family members later told authorities. He was abusive, especially when he drank, they said. Earlier that day, Estradas wife, Taylor Danay Dominguez Estrada, had called and asked him to sign divorce papers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That night, upon arriving at the party in east Bakersfield, Rafael Estrada argued with his wife about the divorce and their property. He followed her into a back bedroom where the argument continued. Then Rafael Estrada pulled a pocketknife, witnesses told sheriffs investigators. You want to call me a bad guy? Rafael Estrada said. Ill show you a bad guy. He lunged at his wife and stabbed her in the neck, said the witnesses, which included some of Taylor Estradas children. She bled out and was pronounced dead at the scene. Rafael Estrada, 44, was arrested after a chase and charged with first-degree murder, among other crimes. Hes being held without bail and is due back in court next month. History of abuse Family members described Rafael Estrada as controlling and abusive, according to reports authored by sheriffs investigators. They said there had been multiple incidents of domestic violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He owned a number of weapons, family members said. One said hed previously thrown a hatchet at her. A stepdaughter said Rafael Estrada once told her that if he killed her mother, shed be next, according to the reports. A chase and struggle Immediately after the stabbing, a family member locked herself in a laundry room and called 911. Rafael Estrada was spotted by a sheriffs helicopter driving away in a white truck as deputies arrived. Deputies located and chased the pickup which sped and ran at least one red light until the pursuit ended about 10 miles away in the busy parking lot of a church in the 9900 block of Ramos Avenue, off Taft Highway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fearing Rafael Estrada would take a hostage from the church, deputies released a K-9, according to the reports. The dog bit the back of Estradas shirt but disengaged after the shirt tore. Deputies then worked to bring the 240-pound Estrada to the ground. He repeatedly yelled, Kill me!, and continued to struggle, according to the reports. Deputies used force, including elbow and knee strikes, to take him into custody. A pocketknife and box cutter were found on Estrada, the reports say. He was taken to Kern Medical for evaluation then booked into 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 KGET 17 News. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) As San Angelo citizens work to bounce back from the destructive Independence Day floods, the San Angelo Food Bank is planning to distribute food to those in need of relief. Heres what to know. According to the San Angelo Food Bank, a food distribution event will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at San Angelo Stadium, located at 1919 Knickerbocker Road. To participate, recipients must register in advance using the food banks FreshTrak registration webpage for the event. Anonymous donor assists flood-affected areas in San Angelo Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FreshTrak registration webpage lists the food distribution event as San Angelo Disaster Relief. Our prayers are with those both impacted and responding to the floods in San Angelo and Tom Green County, the San Angelo Food Bank website states. In times of disaster, one thing remains true: we take care of each other. The San Angelo Food Bank stands ready to serve our Concho Valley community when emergencies occur. The food bank is also accepting volunteers for the event, with the volunteer shift lasting from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Those who wish to volunteer may do so through the San Angelo Food Banks Give Time webpage. As of the time of publication, 19 volunteers are needed. Another food distribution event hosted by the San Angelo Food Bank is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at San Angelo Stadium. To register as a recipient or volunteer for the event and to see when future disaster relief distributions will occur, visit the San Angelo Food Bank website. Advertisement 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) Local citizens met Tuesday at the Magic Tree Pub & Eatery in Boardman for an effort to eliminate property taxes in Ohio. The line at the restaurant stretched the length of the deck of people waiting to sign a petition to place a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot that would outlaw all property taxes in Ohio. Mine, just as everyone elses, have been going up exponetially. Terrible, said Sher Wenowitz, a Canfield resident who came to the petition signing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group behind the petition is called Mahoning County Tax Relief, spearheaded by Mark Brandenstein. Its plain and simple. Were being taxed out of our home, Brandenstein said. Brandenstein helped organize the petition drive. He was pleased with the turnout. Everybody kept their mouth shut for 30 to 40 years. Nobody said anything to help out the property owner. Well, now were going for the jugular, Brandenstein said. Organizer Denise DiFabio also showed up to support the signing. Shes also circulating petitions. Theres a lot of stories out there. people have found themselves in trouble, DiFabio said. I think the way its calculated now is not fair, because its based on what they say your property is worth, and youre not maybe selling your home, but yet youre paying a high price every single year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Tex Fischer of Boardman also showed up to support the effort just one day after voting to override one of Gov. Mike DeWines property tax vetoes, which Fischer said was not enough. I think it will pass, and I think it will pass comfortably, Fischer said. I think the legislature, as much as some of us are trying, we are paralyzed by our inability to make a decision. Property taxes pay for schools, police and fire departments, parks, roads and bridges. The tax relief group believes that funding for those services will have to come from elsewhere. I would say the trustees of the townships in Ohio and the county commissioners better start working now, better get down to work now to figure out how theyre going to do this funding, Brandenstein said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would say sales tax, but its up to Columbus. Its not up to us, DiFabio said. Its going to be our job in the Legislature to figure out how to fund these critical services and programs, Fischer said. There are other petition signing events planned to eliminate the property tax in Ohio. There will be one Saturday morning in Salem and one Sunday afternoon in Austintown. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) State and local leaders said an Afghan interpreter who worked alongside U.S. servicemembers during the Afghan war was taken by masked ICE agents outside a government building in Hartford. Officials are referring to the man only as Zia, to protect him and his family. They said he was in the United States legally due to direct threats from the Taliban. The Department of Homeland Security states that Zia was granted permission by the Biden administration in October 2024 to enter the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens gathered outside of New Haven courthouse to protest local womans ICE detainment His attorney, Lauren Petersen, says he received travel documents and a visa from the U.S. Embassy, and he and his family flew to JFK Airport, settling legally in Connecticut. Petersen said Zia also has a Chief of Mission Approval a vital step for Afghan nationals seeking a Special Immigrant Visa to the United States. He was currently working toward obtaining his green card. However, last Wednesday, while at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services building in Hartford for a biometrics appointment which includes taking photos and fingerprints for a green card application Zia was detained by six ICE agents and placed into expedited removal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A senior DHS official said Zia is currently under investigation for a serious criminal allegation, but did not specify the nature of the allegation. All of his claims will be heard by a judge, DHS said in a statement to News 8. Any Afghan who fears persecution is able to request asylum. Zias lawyer said she doesnt understand the departments rationale. I do not have any understanding of what they might be referring to by saying he is under a criminal investigation, Petersen said. Blumenthal, officials warn Connecticut travelers to check passports for validity Petersen said a judge has temporarily postponed Zias deportation. She told News 8 that she filed a habeas petition a legal request for a court to review whether Zias detention is lawful and expects a response by the end of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Petersen, alongside Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Rep. Bill Keating of Massachusetts, Rep. Jahana Hayes, and the organization AfghanEvac, held a virtual press conference to bring attention to Zias case. A great nation keeps its promises, Blumenthal said. We promised them we would bring them here and they would be safe. Zia thought he was safe. Afghans all across this country and all across the world are terrified over what the Trump administration is going to do to them, Shawn VanDiver, AfghanEvac president and founder, said. Blumenthal said he is committed to fighting Zias deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To Zia we have your back. Were going to fight for you. Well leave no stone unturned, 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 WTNH.com. By Yuka Obayashi and Katya Golubkova TOKYO (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Japan will form a joint venture to develop a liquefied natural gas project in Alaska though a Japanese government official said he was not aware of such plans. It was not immediately clear whether Trump was referring specifically to the proposed $44 billion Alaska LNG project. That project would consist of an 800-mile (1,300-km) pipeline carrying gas to a planned liquefaction plant for export. Trump's announcement of the venture came in comments to lawmakers at the White House where he discussed his trade deal with Japan. "We concluded the one deal ... and now we're going to conclude another one because they're forming a joint venture with us at, in Alaska, as you know, for the LNG," Trump told the lawmakers. "They're all set to make that deal now." The METI official, who oversees resource development, said the agency is working to confirm Trump's comments. Several companies from Japan have expressed an interest in buying LNG from the project, along with Thailand's PTT and India's GAIL. JERA and Tokyo Gas, Japan's two biggest LNG buyers, have expressed their interest in the Alaska LNG project but said they would need to assess specific conditions, including costs, before moving forward. But when asked about the joint venture mentioned by Trump, a JERA spokesperson said they could not confirm it. A Tokyo Gas spokesperson declined to comment, saying the company is not involved in a joint venture for LNG in Alaska and is not familiar with the details. (Reporting by Yuka Obayashi and Katya Golubkova; Editing by Christian Schmollinger) EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Local migrant advocates are reacting to the reports of the federal government building what would be the largest immigration facility at Fort Bliss. As we previously reported, the facility would have a capacity of 5,000 people, and is expected to be completed by September 2027. Reports: Largest immigration facility in U.S. to be at Fort Bliss Fernando Garcia, the executive director of the Border Network for Human Rights (BNHR) sent the following statement: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement of a billion-dollar contract to construct what would become the largest deportation center in the country is deeply alarming. At a time when funding for education, housing, healthcare, and other essential social services is being cut, this administration is funneling millions of dollars to fuel its cruel, inhumane, and anti-immigrant agenda, one that continues tearing families, destabilizing communities, and dividing our nation. This is not the first time our community has been targeted by such policies and strategies and it is certainly not the first time we have warned about the serious human and civil rights violations that they produce. We remember and carry a collective memory of the hundreds of unaccompanied children once held at Fort Bliss, despite allegations of overcrowding, sexual abuse, and inadequate mental health services. Under no circumstances should any individualchild, woman, man, or familybe subjected to these cruel and dehumanizing detention practices. Once again, we raise the alarm against a strategy that history has shown to be consistently ineffective, profoundly harmful, and deeply inhumane. We call on this administration to reverse course and, instead, invest in real, humane solutions to fix our broken immigration and refugee system. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LORAIN, Ohio (WJW) Police departments across Northeast Ohio are showing support for the Lorain Police Department after three of its officers were ambushed and shot Wednesday afternoon. CLEVELAND DIVISION OF POLICE: Our hearts are with the Lorain Police Department during this incredibly difficult time. We are keeping the three officers who were shot, their families, coworkers, and friends in our thoughts and prayers. In the face of tragedy, we stand united in strength, support, and hope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief of Police Dorothy Todd later issued a statement saying, The Cleveland Division of Police stands in solidarity with the Lorain Police Department during this difficult period. The violence taken against these officers is a grim reminder of the evil that law enforcement faces each day. Our thoughts and prayers are with LPD. Rocky River Police Department: Our hearts go out the Lorain Police Department and their families. Thank you to the men and women who leave their loved ones everyday to protect their communities at whatever cost. VERMILION POLICE DEPARTMENT: Our thoughts are with the Lorain Police Department after a tragic incident in which three officers were shot. We stand in support of these brave men and women. We send our prayers and hope for strength and healing to the officers, their families, and all of Lorain during this difficult time. We are ready to assist in any way requested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NORTH OLMSTED POLICE DEPARTMENT: Our hearts are in our stomachs. Three officers shot in Lorain. If you pray, pray hard. AMHERST POLICE DEPARTMENT: Our hearts are with the Lorain Police Department after a tragic incident in which three officers were shot. We stand in support of these brave men and women. Sending strength, prayers, and healing to the officers, their families, and all of Lorain during this difficult time. WILLARD POLICE DEPARTMENT: Earlier today, three officers from the Lorain Police Department were injured in an ambush. At this time, their conditions have not been officially released, and the situation remains ongoing. We ask everyone to keep these officers, their families, and the entire law enforcement community in your thoughts during this difficult time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NEWBURGH HEIGHTS POLICE DEPARTMENT: Keeping the injured Lorain police officers in our thoughts and prayers today. Their bravery and sacrifice protect our communities, and we are wishing them strength and a speedy recovery. Lets come together to support them and their families during this difficult time. #ThankYouLawEnforcement. NORTON POLICE DEPARTMENT: Our hearts are with the Lorain Police Department, their families, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. This afternoon, three officers were shot in the line of duty, and their conditions remain unknown. Please take a moment to pray for them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OHIO FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE: This brazen assault is just the latest reminder of the danger our officers face every day, Ohio Fraternal Order of Police President Jay McDonald said. We ask everyone to pray for the recovery of our injured Lorain officers and support their families. We also support our Protect Ohio Police effort, which seeks to hold everyone who endangers law enforcement accountable. Stay with FOX 8 News for more on this developing 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Jul. 23A busy shopping center in Huber Heights near Interstate 70 sold to an Ohio limited liability company for more than $31 million recently. This is the biggest property sale of the year so far in Montgomery County, a spokesman for the county auditor's office said Wednesday. An Ohio limited liability company, RCG Huber Heights PM, purchased the Northpark Center, an Old Troy Pike shopping center that includes a Marshalls store, a T-Mobile store, an At Home furniture store, a Dollar Tree and many other outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 362,514-square-foot center is anchored by Kohl's and also counts a PetSmart among its tenants. It is located near the high-traffic Ohio 202 entrance/exit ramps with Interstate 70, recent marketing material notes. The retail corridor in that area includes a Target store, Lowe's, Rave Cinemas, Hobby Lobby and more. The purchasing company, RCG-Huber Heights PM LLC, was incorporated in Columbus in April. The LLC is linked to RCG Ventures, an Atlanta-based real estate investment group, that also owns the Beavercreek shopping center at 2500 N. Fairfield Road, as well as the Streets of West Chester, 9435-9455 Civic Center Blvd., West Chester Twp. The sale price for the Huber Heights property was $31.3 million, with the transaction being dated in Montgomery County records as July 18. Local volunteers pack snacks to combat child food insecurity during summer Volunteers from Duquesne Light Company got together Tuesday to make sure no child goes hungry this summer. Volunteers teamed up with representatives from the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. They learned about food insecurity and packed snack kits to be distributed to agencies that offer summer programs for kids. We know that the success for kids is around their eating habits and the health that theyre in, said Adam Baron, director of campaign for the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania. So, having these options really allows them to prosper and to enjoy their summer and take the next steps on their path. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duquesne Light challenged its employees to volunteer a collective 1,000 hours of community service from June to August. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW In an effort to give back to children affected by the May 16 tornado, the Walmart team in London is hosting a Touch-a-Truck event on Friday, July 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the stores parking lot. The event, sponsored by Transamerica, will feature a variety of vehicles for children to explore, including Walmart trucks, a dump truck, tractors, and emergency vehicles from the London-Laurel County Rescue Squad, London Fire Department, and London Police Department. In addition to the vehicle displays, free back-to-school supplies will be handed out on a first-come, first-serve basis. Supplies will include pencils, crayon boxes, glue sticks, scissors, folders, notebooks, and erasers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Operations Manager Donnie King said the idea stemmed from a desire to support local youth following the recent storm. Kings hope for children attending the event is that they just have a fun day where they can get school supplies and see different types of equipment. Several local organizations are also participating, including Minuteman Press, Makers Pride, and Flowers Bakery, with the potential for more to join. Among those involved with making this event possible is truck driver Jessie Meece, who participated in a similar Touch-a-Truck event in Somerset, which was also impacted by the May tornado. Inspired by that experience, Meece wanted to help bring the same event to London. The event, taking place at 1852 KY 192 in London, is open to the public and free to attend. Vendors interested in participating may contact King at (606) 413-0596. LUDOWICI, Ga. (WSAV) The jail that Long County officials once hoped would solve their financial woes will now cease operations, and the space will likely be leased to an outside entity. Staff said they expected the Long County Jail to open September 1 but were informed otherwise just days ago. The county confirmed they are now considering leasing the space instead, and jail staff said a deal with the Georgia Department of Corrections may already be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesday, we got called to the sheriffs office and he told us as of August 1, we didnt have a job, Assistant Jail Administrator at the Long County Jail Lieutenant Stanley Danzey said. Danzey said everything changed in a matter of two days after he and the other administrator spent months preparing the jail for inmates. Finally, I got to administration level. I was Assistant Jail Administrator and six months, its gone, he said. On Monday, WSAV toured the jail with Danzey. He showed us supplies and equipment that had been purchased to outfit the jail, some of which he said cant be recouped now. Army couple moves out of Hunter Army Airfield due to mold problems Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WSAV reviewed records of those purchases, totaling out to an anticipated $200,000. Line items included kitchen supplies, medical equipment, inmate uniforms and construction costs. Danzey pointed the finger at county commissioners for the collapse of the project. I hold them accountable. I hold them accountable for me losing my job because they had control of all the money, he said. County leaders, though, said they had to make a drastic decision to meet the drastic situation theyre in. Our financial situation has worsened. Were not at financial collapse and we cant go bankrupt, but its a very tough situation right now, Long County County Manager Chuck Scragg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scragg said that because the county has to pay bonds on the jail already and has a shortage of estimated tax revenue, it would be difficult to turn a profit running the jail themselves. Looking at what it would cost us to run that jail, which is about $2.1 million a year, it was more cost-effective to keep our prisoners in other jails and lease this jail for three to five years, get out of this financial situation and then take it back over, he said. Scragg also said the county was planning to use a loan to finance the rest of the costs to get the jail up and running, but theyve taken out at least one already for other costs. Therefore, he said if the county gets another loan, it wont come until January. and if the lease option falls through, thats also when the jail could reopen under County management. Advertisement 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 WSAV-TV. Israeli aggression appears to be vexing the Trump Administration. The White House said Monday that President Donald Trump had not approved of Israels airstrikes on Syria last week, which reportedly continued even after the U.S. had told Israel to stand down after Israel bombed Syrian tanks on Tuesday. Israel launched new airstrikes on Damascus on Wednesday, killing at least three people and wounding dozens of others. Israel said its strikes were aimed at protecting the Syrian Druze community after days of clashes between members of the Druze militia and Bedouin tribes as well as Syrian military intervention. At the same time, Israels government said the strikes were in retaliation for Syrian troops entering a region in southern Syria that Israel had unilaterally declared a demilitarized zone. The Syrian government has rejected that claim and repeatedly condemned Israeli military action towards Syria, including in recent months the seizure of Syrian territory and multiple airstrikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump Administration brokered a cease-fire between Israel and Syria, U.S. envoy to Syria Tom Barrack said on Friday, but some within the Administration have grown restive over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus recalcitrance, Axios reported on Sunday. Bibi acted like a madman. He bombs everything all the time, one official told the outlet. This could undermine what Trump is trying to do. Trump was caught off guard by the bombing in Syria and also the bombing of the Catholic Church in Gaza, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Monday, although she added that Trump enjoys a good working relationship with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and stays in frequent communication with him. In both cases, the President quickly called the [Israeli] Prime Minister to rectify these situations, Leavitt added. Israels strikes on Syria and a Catholic Church in Gaza came after Netanyahus visit to Washington earlier this month, which appeared to signal progress towards a Gaza cease-fire deal even as critics have worried that a Trump-mediated cease-fire would involve the removal of Palestinians and redevelopment of the Gaza Strip under U.S. and/or Israeli control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything Israel is doing, from bombing civilians to bulldozing entire city blocks has been done with American bombs and bulldozers, says William Figueroa, an assistant professor of international relations at the University of Groningen. Clemens Chay, a research fellow at the National University of Singapores Middle East Institute, tells TIME that Trump has emboldened Israel by backing it militarily even as Israel has put at risk many U.S. goals, including by bombing Iran when Tehran was in the midst of nuclear talks with Washington and now bombing Syria after Trump had earlier signalled a desire to improve relations with the country by lifting U.S. sanctions. Netanyahu likely took Trumps vague response to any military action as a go-ahead, Chay says. The U.S. President is well-known for vacillating in his positions towards various foreign policy issues, but the Israeli Prime Minister is nowfollowing U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear [facilities]confident in his own ability of being the Trump whisperer. Trump is continuing the failed policies of his predecessors by ceding the initiative to Israel, Jon Hoffman, a foreign policy analyst at the Cato Institute, posted on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even so, Israel depends critically on U.S. support: It is not surprising that Israel signs a cease-fire when the United States applies real pressure, because they could not pursue any conflict, in Iran or in Gaza, without the continual supply of weapons, ammunition, and military tech from the United States, Figueroa previously told TIME. When the person signing the checks says they really mean it, you listen. Its not the first time Israel has gambled that the U.S. would back it despite going against the Trump Administrations advice. While Netanyahu has managed to sustain U.S. support, in part by stroking Mr Trumps ego with a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize and by allowing Trump to claim victory over brokering cease-fires in the Middle East, Chay says, Israels continued actions risk not only being seen as an overstepping of boundaries by Trump officials, but worse, also as a form of unchecked Israeli military power by regional states. Israels strikes on Syria Israel reportedly agreed on Tuesday to stand down at Barracks request in order for the U.S. to negotiate a peace deal. But the next day, Israel escalated its attacks, bombing Syrias military headquarters and a facility near the presidential palace. The bombing in Syria caught the President and the White House by surprise. The President doesnt like turning on the television and seeing bombs dropped in a country he is seeking peace in and made a monumental announcement to help rebuild, one official told Axios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another official suggested that the Israeli government was harming its reputation among the Trump Administration. The Israelis need to get their head out of their asses, the official told Axios. Meanwhile, an Israeli official told Axios that Trump had not indicated concerns about Israeli intervention in Syria and had even supported Israeli action in Syria during his first few weeks in office. Bombing of Catholic church in Gaza Israel also came under fire after striking on Thursday the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, killing three people and wounding others who were sheltering there. The news shook the Catholic community around the world. Before his death, Pope Francis had held daily calls with the parishGazas only Catholic church. Francis successor, Pope Leo XIV posted on X that he was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury and reiterated the need for an immediate cease-fire. The news also angered the Trump Administration. Leavitt said Thursday that Trump did not have a positive reaction to the attack and that he called Prime Minister Netanyahu this morning to address the strikes on that church in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu said in a Thursday statement that Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit the church, calling it a mistake. He said Israel was investigating the incident and remains committed to protecting civilians and holy sites. The Israel Defense Forces said in a later statement that an initial inquiry into reports regarding injured individuals in the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, suggests that fragments from a shell fired during operational activity in the area hit the church mistakenly. The cause of the incident is under review. Israels military added, The IDF directs its strikes solely at military targets and makes every feasible effort to mitigate harm to civilians and religious structures, and regrets any unintentional damage caused to them. Gazans, journalists and humanitarian organizations have recorded numerous Israeli attacks on civilian, religious, and aid sites over the course of the two-year war. Murder of Palestinian American by Israeli settlers The July 11 murder of Palestinian American Saif Musallet by a mob of Israeli settlers in the Israeli-occupied West Bank has also incited backlash from the U.S. government. Musallets family told CBS News that he had been visiting his familys land in the town of Sinjil when he was surrounded and beaten by settlers for over three hours. The settlers blocked an ambulance and paramedics from reaching him, his family said. Musallets brother eventually carried him to an ambulance, but he died before reaching the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a rare albeit tempered criticism of Israel, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who is known to be an outspoken ally of Israeli settlers, called the attack a criminal and terrorist act. Huckabee said he asked Israel to aggressively investigate Mussallets murder. Saif was just 20 yrs old, Huckabee added. The IDF told CBS News last week that a joint investigation was launched by the Israel Police and the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Thameen Al-Kheetan sounded the alarm on rising violence by Israeli settlers and security forces in the West Bank. Israel must immediately stop these killings, harassment and home demolitions across the occupied Palestinian territory, Al-Kheetan said last week. As the occupying power, Israel must take all feasible measures to ensure public order and safety in the West Bank. It is under the obligation to protect Palestinians from settler attacks and to end the unlawful use of force by its security forces. There must be thorough, independent and transparent investigations into all killings and all other alleged violations of international law. Those responsible must be held to account. Huckabee also visited the Christian community of Taybeh in the West Bank on Saturday after a church was reportedly attacked and vandalized by Israeli settlers. To commit an act of sacrilege by desecrating a place that is supposed to be a place of worship, it is an act of terror, and it is a crime. There should be consequences, and it should be harsh consequences because it is one of the last bastions of our civilization, the places where we worship, Huckabee said in a statement. He later clarified on X that he did not attribute the cause of the arson attack on the church to anyone. Israels post-cease-fire strikes on Iran Israel came under fire directly from Trump in June when it continued to trade strikes with Iran within hours of the U.S. President publicly announcing a cease-fire. Trumps cease-fire came after nearly two weeks of attacks between Israel and Iran that the U.S. even joined militarily, bombing three key Iranian nuclear facilities, despite Trumps longtime professed aversion to military entanglement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not happy with Iran, but Im really not happy with Israel, Trump told reporters on June 24, characterizing an Iranian missile strike that Israel cited as reason to retaliate as one rocket that didnt land anywhere. Israel, as soon as we made the deal, they came out and they dropped a load of bombs, the likes of which Ive never seen before, Trump added. The President also posted on Truth Social the same day: ISRAEL. DO NOT DROP THOSE BOMBS. IF YOU DO IT IS A MAJOR VIOLATION. BRING YOUR PILOTS HOME, NOW!Netanyahu appeared to heed Trumps warning at the time, as the fragile cease-fire appeared to hold and the Israeli leaders friendship with Trump seemed stronger than ever. Still, experts caution that the Trump Administrations apparent exasperation with Israel is unlikely to lead to any real change in bilateral relations. Trump is certainly showing some on-again/off-again frustration with Netanyahu. And separately Trump is shifting his focus back to privileging his business-driven relations with others in the region, particularly the Gulf states, says Phyllis Bennis, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies and director of its New Internationalism Project. But I think it would be a mistake to equate those realities with changing his position towards Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump Administration has shown frustration with Netanyahu before, but it has never translated to anything less than full support in material and diplomatic terms, says Figueroa. Its hard to imagine any red line left to be crossed that would be a tipping point for Trump. Contact us at letters@time.com. LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK) Weeks before the new school year begins, the Longview ISD is adapting its cell phone policies after the Texas House and Senate recently approved House Bill 1481, which bans students from using cell phones during school hours. Due to H.B. 1481 being passed, school districts across Texas, including Longview ISD, are required to develop a plan to implement these new regulations. The bill states that all electronic devices should be stored away during the school day; however, Longview ISD has implemented a number of exceptions for students. Division grows in Henderson over replacement of town mural Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the district, a student who receives special education accommodations or is on a 504 plan may be permitted to use electronic devices if it is deemed needed to comply with documented health and safety protocols. The law gives districts the right to dispose of a confiscated device as long as the school gives parents a 90-day notice. District leaders acknowledged the anxiety the bill may cause, especially for parents who rely on phones to communicate with their children, especially during emergencies. We understand how disruptive this change may feel for families, Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard said. Our role is to implement what the state requires while ensuring every campus is consistent, calm and clear with expectations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minors accused of breaking into vacant Gladewater Lake house to throw party Sheppard assured parents that emergency protocols remain unchanged and stated that parent communication will continue through official district channels. Implementation details are being finalized at the campus level, with guidance from central administration, Sheppard said. Students will receive direct instruction on the new rules during the first week of school, and signage will be posted in common areas to reinforce expectations. Additionally, teachers may permit students to temporarily use devices if it directly supports instruction. Devices will, however, continue to be prohibited, from arrival to dismissal, including during passing periods and lunch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt write the law. But we do believe in leading with wisdom and care, Sheppard 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 KETK.com | FOX51.com. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) ABQ BioParks reptile building reopened to the public on Friday after closing for renovations about two months prior. One of those renovations includes a snappy home upgrade for one of the parks long-standing residents. Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Meet Wilson. Shes a 52-year-old alligator snapping turtle. Theyre the largest species of freshwater turtles found in the US, and according to ABQ BioPark Reptile and Amphibian Curator Stacey Sekscienski, Wilson is particularly big. She weighs about a 100 pounds, said Sekscienski. Shes quite large for a female. Thats not uncommon in captivity, that the animals are a little bit larger than animals we see in the wild. She came to the BioPark from another AZA facility back in 2010. Wilsons recently upgraded habitat includes a different pool level, various ledges, a terrestrial area where she can dig around, and a dedicated basking area for some extra heat, which helps the animal digest food while also getting UV. The BioPark hopes her habitat will help visitors learn about the southeast swamps of the US, where some of the reptile residents are native to. Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Alligator snapping turtles are considered predators. They mostly feed on vertebrates, but they will also eat vegetation and crustaceans. One of the coolest features about alligator snapping turtles is their behavior, said Sekscienski. So at the end of their tongue, they have a small little protuberance that looks like a, basically a little earthworm. And theyre able to sit motionless and wiggle it to lure in prey, smaller fish and other prey that might be in the water. And then once the prey gets, you know, close enough, then theyll snap their jaws and ingest the prey. Sekscienski added that Wilson exhibits a lot of this luring behavior, so visitors will likely be privy to seeing her dining methods in action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Wilson has a good five decades worth of wisdom under her belt, shes not the oldest resident in the building. That would be Aldabra, a tortoise that the park believes is over a century old. On the flipside, the reptile building also has some newcomers. One of those newcomers is an American alligator named Captain. Hes joining a female alligator by the name of Bonnie, who has called the BioPark home for about a decade. According to Sekscienski, the two seem to be getting along quite well. Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Courtesy: Albuquerque BioPark Another new resident includes a timber rattlesnake. Its got a very beautiful pattern, said Sekscienski. They are found in similar habitats to alligator snapping turtles. So we thought it would be a nice compliment to our alligator snapping turtle habitat. Sekscienski added that the BioPark has made some smaller cosmetic improvements to the building, including sprucing up the entrance portal. They also refreshed some of their fiberglass habitats. Advertisement 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. LORAIN, Ohio (WJW) State lawmakers and local officials are showing support for the Lorain Police Department after three officers were shot on Wednesday afternoon. The shooting, which occurred in the area of Colorado Avenue, sent two officers by helicopter to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland and a third officer to Mercy Health Lorain Hospital. The FOX 8 I-Team confirmed around 3:15 p.m. that a suspect is dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio Governor Mike DeWine released a statement on X Wednesday evening: I have been briefed on the horrible officer-involved shooting in Lorain, which appears to have been a targeted attack on law enforcement. Fran and I are praying for the three Lorain Police Department officers who were shot in the line of duty today, and our thoughts are also with their families, friends, and fellow officers in northeast Ohio. This situation reminds us that those who work in law enforcement risk their lives every day for the safety of their communities. We are so very grateful for the men and women who willingly and bravely serve and protect. LIVE UPDATES: NE Ohio police officers shot; a suspect is dead Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, the Lorain City School District released the following statement on the situation: We are aware of an active situation currently unfolding in the City of Lorain. While details are still emerging, we want to take a moment to express our deep support for the Lorain Police Department and all first responders involved. Our thoughts are with the officers, their families, and the entire law enforcement community during this incredibly difficult time. We remain in close communication with local authorities and will continue to prioritize the safety of our staff. Ohios U.S. Senator Jon Husted took to social media on Wednesday afternoon, issuing the following statement: I have been monitoring the terrible situation in Lorain, where police officers were just ambushed. There is no place for this kind of violence in our state or country. Tina and I are praying for these brave officers and their families, and we are grateful for the first responders. My team has reached out to local leaders to offer any assistance we can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local police departments react to Lorain shooting that injured 3 officers Ohios U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno also released a statement on social media: My team is monitoring this situation in Lorain and Im keeping these officers and their families in my thoughts. Attacks on law enforcement are unacceptable and Im proud to stand with our brave men and women in blue. Ohio Representative Joe Miller released the following statement on X: I am praying for the quick and full recovery of our Lorain Police Officers who were shot in the line of duty today. My thoughts are also with the families of the officers in this difficult moment. I thank our brave law enforcement officials who acted to protect Lorain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb released a statement Wednesday evening. First responders put their lives on the line every single day, and to be ambushed like this is despicable. The Cleveland Division of Police is offering assistance, and our thoughts remain with the families, friends, and fellow officers of the Lorain Police Department. Cleveland is with you. Cleveland Chief of Police Dorothy Todd The Cleveland Division of Police stands in solidarity with the Lorain Police Department during this difficult period. The violence taken against these officers is a grim reminder of the evil that law enforcement faces each day. Our thoughts and prayers are with LPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Northeast Ohio law enforcement agencies have also released statements on the shooting. Keep up with LIVE updates from this developing story 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. Last week, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE: TSM), also known as TSMC, crossed an important psychological threshold for investors. The Taiwanese company surpassed a $1 trillion market capitalization, making it the first Asian company to do so since Chinas PetroChina oil and gas giant briefly achieved this milestone in 2007, notes GuruFocus. Most Read from Fast Company TSMC manufactures the most advanced computer chips in the world, which are essential for running the most complex AI tasks. The company makes chips for a variety of tech giants, including Nvidia and Apple. As of the time of this writing, TSMC has a market capitalization of approximately $1.2 trillion. The chipmaking giant has achieved this 12-figure valuation on the strength of its chip business in recent months, which has seen a surge in demand thanks to the artificial intelligence boom sweeping the world. But the question many people may be wondering now is whos next in line to join the $1 trillion club? Heres what the numbers say. Who is currently in the $1 trillion club? The list of companies valued at $1 trillion or more is pretty short. Currently, just 11 companies have a 12-figure valuation, according to data compiled by CompaniesMarketCap.com. The companies with trillion-dollar market caps currently include: Nvidia ($4.1 trillion) Microsoft ($3.7 trillion) Apple ($3.1 trillion) Amazon ($2.4 trillion) Alphabet/Google ($2.3 trillion) Meta Platforms ($1.7 trillion) Saudi Aramco ($1.6 trillion) Broadcom ($1.3 trillion) TSMC ($1.2 trillion) Tesla ($1 trillion) Berkshire Hathaway ($1 trillion) While TSMC is the newest member of this esteemed list, the company that tops the chart, Nvidia, is the most notable. Not only is it the most valuable company in the world, but it is also the only company to have ever reached a $4 trillion market capitalization, which it achieved earlier this month. What companies are closest to joining the trillion-dollar club? As its fairly hard to predict how the stock marketand individual stockswill perform in the future, its also nearly impossible to say with any certainty which company may be the next one to cross the trillion-dollar threshold. The companies that are the closest now could have calamity strike next week, and see their stock prices plunge as a result, taking them further from the 12-figure mark. The woes continued for on-location shoots in Los Angeles during the second quarter of 2025, but there also a modicum of quarter-to-quarter good news on both the feature and small-screen fronts as the region continues to recover from the wildfires. FilmLA, the city and countys film permitting office, said today that overall on-location production in Greater Los Angeles declined by 6.2% to 5,349 shoot days in the April-to-June quarter compared to the same period a year ago. That continues a multiyear downward trend. See the charts below, and read the full report here. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feature film production took the hardest hit in Q2, managed only 553 shoot days. Thats 21.4% dive from the same frame in 2024 but up by 22.6% from the first three months of 2025. All of the features were indie productions, including Animals, Ill Take the Hamm, Totally Ghosted, Unravel, and Whalefall. TV producers fared better in the second quarter, producing more L.A. shoot days than the sector has seen in more than a year. There were some 2,224 shoot days for television, a year-over-year increase of 17% and 25% more than Q1. The boost in local TV production is attributed to gains for TV Dramas (up 9.5%) and TV Reality (29.5%). In fact, with 782 shoot days, TV Dramas posted their highest observed levels since pre-strike period Q4 2022. Still, the category still is down by 32.6% over its five-year quarterly average. Commercial production declined by 15.3% last quarter to 692 shoot days. The category remains 38.3% below its five-year quarterly average making it the weakest of the three major production categories FilmLA tracks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there is work ahead to bring Los Angeles-area production back to its full potential, we are optimistic and grounded in our mission to keep production affordable, accessible and straightforward, FilmLA President Paul Audley said in a statement. We look forward to our continuing conversations with government officials and our partners in the industry to see the full fruition of the economic, cultural and employment benefits that Los Angeles film ecosystem offers to our community. FilmLA defines a shoot day as one crews permission to film at one or more defined locations during any 24-hour period. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Ukrainians reacted with outrage to President Volodymyr Zelensky's evening address on July 22, during which he confirmed he had earlier that day signed a controversial bill that curtails the independence of Ukraines key anti-corruption institutions. The new law titled Law 12414 is seen as effectively destroying the independence of two key anti-graft bodies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). As Zelensky signed the bill, the first country-wide protests since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion were in full swing in cities including Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a video posted to social media, Zelensky framed the decision as a step toward greater justice and independence from foreign, especially Russian, influence, though he did not provide evidence of outside interference in the agencies. "The anti-corruption infrastructure will work," he said. Zelensky publishes short evening addresses on social media every day, offering updates on the war, diplomacy, or internal affairs. These videos are usually routine and rarely provoke strong reactions. But this time was different. (Zelensky), what are you doing?!!! What am I fighting for?!!! Within minutes, the post was flooded with responses expressing shock, disappointment, and a growing sense of betrayal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Zelensky presented as a step toward removing foreign interference, many have interpreted as a step back from democracy and transparency. Grief, betrayal, disbelief A dominant theme in replies to the post was personal disappointment in the president, once widely seen as a symbol of reform. "You have lost the trust of society," wrote activist Yulia Tymoshenko, whose comment received over 6,000 likes. "Hypocritical, low and shameful towards those who give their lives for a democratic country," project manager Nadia Kurazhnova wrote. Dozens simply repeated slogans that were voiced at the protests, including "Traitor of Ukraine," "Shame," and "Veto the law." President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks to the press during a conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, on April 17, 2025. (Viktor Kovalchuk / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) People gathered to protest a bill passed in Ukraine's parliament that strips independence from anti-corruption bodies, in Kyiv, Ukraine on July 22, 2025. (Danylo Antoniuk/The Kyiv Independent) "Mr. President, society is outraged by Law 12414, and just can't accept any other information from you now, lawyer Yevhen Pronin wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many comments reflected on Ukraines painful history, especially the 2014 Euromaidan protests, where over 100 people were killed fighting for democratic reforms. "My brother did not die for a country like this! I stood on the Maidan for another country!" producer Viktoria Mircha wrote. "The students, with whom the revolution of dignity began, are already 30-35 years old. These are adults now, and its not that easy to fool them. Who is this kind of messaging even for?" publisher Kira Kos said. The signing of the new law has stoked fears of political regression, with lawmakers, soldiers, and civil society activists telling the Kyiv Independent on July 22 that it risks a "point of no return." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many have drawn comparisons to Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian president ousted in 2014 after violently suppressing protests during EuroMaidan. Like Yanukovych, Zelensky now stands accused of centralizing power and weakening key institutions. "Do you want to follow Yanukovych? Lets organize." The law he signed was seen by critics as a direct attack on Ukraines anti-corruption system, one of the key achievements of the post-Maidan reforms. "Mr. President, should we do another Maidan?" wrote Olya Wysocka. "Do you want to follow Yanukovych? Lets organize." "This is a shame and betrayal of the Ukrainian people!!!," soldier Slava Chornyi wrote. President Vladimir Putin of Russia (R) and then-President Viktor Yanukovych (L) attend a Russian-Ukrainian summit in Moscow, Russia, on Dec. 17, 2013. (Sasha Mordovets / Getty Images) Another recurring theme in the public backlash was geopolitical. With Ukraine fighting for its survival against Russias invasion, many fear the move damages the countrys credibility with its Western partners and plays into the Kremlins narrative that Ukraine is no different from the corrupt regimes it opposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Nice speech. The European press is already filled with headlines saying 'Ukraine took a step back.' A complete and total political fiasco," journalist Iryna Guley wrote. At the same time, many Ukrainians said this decision does not reflect the position of society at large. Civil society, they argue, remains strong, committed to transparency and reform. "We know that it's gaslighting. You know it too," programmer Taras Shevchenko wrote on X, in reply to Zelensky's post, echoing a common view that ordinary Ukrainians still support democratic values and reject backsliding. People attend the rally against the law #12414, that regulates the work of National Anti-Curruption Bureau and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office in Kyiv, Ukraine on July 22, 2025. (Danylo Antoniuk / The Kyiv Independent) Now, many are urging Ukraines international partners to step in. For years, EU and U.S. assistance has been linked to reforms and anti-corruption measures. Activists say that leverage remains vital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Most of Ukraines democratic progress has happened in spite of politicians, not because of them. And if it has to continue this way, it will," Tymoshenko wrote in a recent post. "Ukrainians wont give up. And you shouldnt either." Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Louisiana State Fire Marshals Office (SFM) is investigating after three people were killed in fires across the state, including in Livingston Parish. SFM said that in each case, they found no smoke alarms in the homes. In Denham Springs, crews responded to a house fire on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard around 3:30 a.m. on July 20. A 65-year-old man was killed, and the cause of the fire is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Iberia Parish, the New Iberia Fire Department responded to a fire that broke out in the 1300 block of Marshfield Road around 11:30 a.m. July 18. A 71-year-old man died in the fire. The cause remains undetermined. In Winn Parish, crews were called to a fire in the 1000 block of Louisiana Highway 1232 at around 3:30 p.m. A 51-year-old woman was killed. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Sheriff: 4 arrested on child porn charges in Livingston Parish These tragedies are stark reminders of how critical it is to have working smoke alarms in your home, said Principal Assistant State Fire Marshal Bryan J. Adams. A few minutes can make the difference between life and death. If you dont have smoke alarms, we can help. Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. Montgomery Hall, the chemistry department building, at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, pictured, on May 15, 2025. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) Louisiana will join six other university systems in the South to form a new alternative accrediting body, spurning long-established standards of higher education, Gov. Jeff Landry announced with an executive order Tuesday. In June, state university systems in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas launched the Commission for Public Higher Education. It is seeking expedited approval from the U.S. Department of Education to act as an accreditor, which is tasked with maintaining quality standards for colleges and universities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move comes as conservatives have sparred with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, which evaluates colleges and universities in Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. Conservative politicians have taken issue with traditional accreditors at times because of their standards related to diversity, equity and inclusion and because accreditors require safeguards that are intended to limit the influence of external forces, including politicians, in public higher education. Landrys executive order creates a new Task Force on Public Higher Education Reform, which will make recommendations for how to move forward with the new commission. Among the groups tasks will be creating a plan to pilot dual accreditation, with both the new commission and the Southern Association authorizing Louisiana schools. This task force will ensure Louisianas public universities move away from DEI-driven mandates and toward a system rooted in merit-based achievement, Landry said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [The Commission for Public Higher Education] will upend the monopoly of the woke accreditation cartels, and it will provide institutions with an alternative that focuses on student achievement, rather than the ideological fads that have so permeated those accrediting bodies over the years, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said in an announcement of the new accreditor in June. Approval from the U.S. Department of Education is required before any school the new commission approves can receive federal financial aid. Every member of Louisianas new task force has been directly appointed to their job by Landry or his conservative allies in the legislature except one: Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed. Besides Reed, the other members are Board of Regents Chairwoman Misti Cordell, University of Louisiana System Board Chairman Mark Romero, LSU System Board Chairman Scott Ballard, Southern University System Board Chairman Tony Clayton, Louisiana Community and Technical College Systems Chairman Tim Hardy, Senate Education Committee Chairman Sen. Rick Edmonds, R-Central, and House Education Committee Chairwoman Rep. Laurie Schlegel, R-Metairie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landry has also appointed his executive counsel, Angelique Freel, or her designee, and Commissioner of Administration Taylor Barras or his designee. The governor will also choose three other members of the task force. Landry supported law changes last year that gave him the power to directly appoint the chairs of the states five higher education boards, which were previously elected from the boards memberships. An earlier version of the law would have allowed Landry to directly hire university system presidents, but the provision was cut amid concerns it could jeopardize accreditation. The group must hold its first meeting no later than Aug. 31 and must meet at least once every two months, submitting its recommendations by Jan. 30, 2026. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE LAKE CHARLES, La. (KLFY) A Louisianan man is charged for first degree rape after a minor reported being victim of his abuse, deputies said. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff deputies were dispatched yesterday to assist a case concerning a runaway juvenile. During the investigation, the juvenile said they ran away due to being an alleged victim of sexual abuse. While being interviewed, the victim revealed Steven R. Banks, 39, of Lake Charles, allegedly raped them on several occasions with the latest incident being in June. The victim also disclosed Banks would allegedly make them watch pornographic videos depicting a inappropriate relationships, deputies said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Later on, deputies reported Banks was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center and charged with first degree rape and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Bankss bond is set at $1.85 million. Steven R. Banks, 39, of Lake Charles 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. LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) As of Tuesday, Louisville is taking action to no longer be considered a sanctuary city. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said the city will begin honoring 48-hour immigration detainers for inmates in custody. I want to make it clearthis issue changes nothing with regards to LMPD policy or practice. LMPD is not involved in enforcing federal immigration policy. This is only about inmates who are arrested for crimes, are booked in our jail, and are subject to deportation notices. Our police department will remain focused on public safety and preventing violent crime in Louisville, Greenberg said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, multiple Kentucky communities, including Louisville, were identified by the Department of Homeland Security as sanctuary jurisdictions that were deliberately and shamefully obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws, endangering American communities. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Greenberg said Metro Corrections will join the rest of Kentucky and return to the pre-2017 practice of giving federal immigration officials a 48-hour notice before certain undocumented inmates are released. I have been assured by the U.S. Department of Justice that, if we reinstate the 48-hour detainers for inmates whove been arrested for crimes, Louisville will be taken off the federal sanctuary city list, Greenberg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This change in designation is critical. Cities on the sanctuary city list right now are experiencing a terrifying increase in raids by ICE, including mass raids. Just look at whats gone on in LA and other cities across the country. Ive talked with leaders within our immigrant community before I made this decision. I heard their fears loud and clear about current federal policies and ICE actions. I also heard that they want Louisville off the federal sanctuary city list, Greenberg continued. Greenberg also said financial risks played a part in the decision. The city could lose hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants if it remains classified as a sanctuary city. This change removes Louisville from that list, he said. We will best protect our law-abiding immigrant community and our entire city by focusing the Trump Administrations immigration enforcement actions on the few inmates in our jail who have been arrested for committing crimes and are subject to deportation. According to a news release, fewer than 100 inmates each year at the Louisville jail are affected by detainers. LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi celebrated the action on X. In a major victory for the Department of Justice, the city of Louisville is dropping its sanctuary city policies as a result of a strong written warning from my office. This should set an example to other cities. Instead of forcing us to sue you which we will, without hesitation follow the law, get rid of sanctuary policies, and work with us to fix the illegal immigration crisis, she said. Greenberg said the change will take effect as soon as practical. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Edison International (NYSE:EIX) is one of the most oversold S&P 500 stocks so far in 2025. On July 8, UBS analyst Gregg Orrill reiterated his Buy rating on Edison International, keeping the price target steady at $68. His near-term caution stems from the delayed outcome of the California general rate case (GRC), which he sees as the key reason behind the weaker earnings expectations for Q2 2025. Orrill projects Q2 EPS at $0.86, well below the Street consensus of $1.47. However, he has not changed his full-year EPS estimate of $6.00, suggesting that the earnings impact from the rate case will be recognized retroactively from the start of the year once a decision is finalized. UBS Stays Bullish on Edison (EIS) with $68 Target Despite Regulatory Uncertainty An electric power substation, with a skyline in the distance. In his view, the lack of clarity on the rate case timing has created some near-term noise, but doesnt affect the broader earnings trajectory for 2025. He expects a proposed decision to be made in the third quarter, with a final ruling likely to be issued before the end of the year. Edison International (NYSE:EIX), through its subsidiaries, generates and distributes electric power, as well as provides energy services and technologies, including renewable energy. While we acknowledge the potential of EIX as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: Harvard University Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks and 20 Undervalued Momentum stocks that are Taking Off. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Before quadruple killer Bryan Kohberger was sentenced Wednesday to spend the rest of his days in prison, the loved ones of the four University of Idaho students he stabbed to death in 2022 let him have it. In their victim impact statements, they took turns deriding Kohberger as a "loser" and a "psychopath," and warned the killer that his future cellmates would mete out justice on behalf of his four victims, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Dressed in orange prison scrubs and flanked by his lawyers, all Kohberger could do was sit silently and listen as the victims' grieving kin tore into him for the harm he did to their families on Nov. 13, 2022. Clockwise from top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. The only talk of forgiveness came from Kernodle's aunt, Kim Kernodle, who said she had forgiven him because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District Court Judge Steven Hippler appeared to be moved by the statements at times, at one point reaching for a tissue and dabbing his eyes. Kohberger, who after years of denying he committed the crimes suddenly pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree murder and burglary before he was supposed to go on trial next month in Boise, declined to make any statement in his own defense. He has never explained why he broke into the off-campus house in Moscow, Idaho, and killed four of the six students who were staying there as they lay sleeping. Bryan Kohberger at his sentencing hearing Wednesday. (Kyle Green / AP) Here are some of the most dramatic moments from the sentencing: Goncalves' big sister mocks Kohberger Barely able to contain her fury, Alivea Goncalves blasted Kohberger as a "sociopath, psychopath, murderer" and took direct aim at his self-esteem, telling him, "The only thing you failed more miserably at than being a murderer is trying to be a rapper." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If you were really smart, do you think youd be here right now?" she said. "Youre terrified of being ordinary, arent you?" Alivea Goncalves told Kohberger he was not "special or deep, not mysterious or exceptional." "You act like none can ever understand your mind," she said. "But the truth is basic, you're a textbook case of insecurity disguised as control. Your patterns are predictable. Your motives are shallow. You are not profound." Alivea Goncalves, sister of victim Kaylee Goncalves, speaks at the sentencing hearing Wednesday. (Kyle Green / Pool via AP) Clapping erupted in the courtroom after Alivea Goncalves told Kohberger that her slain sibling, had she been awake, would have kicked your f------ ass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You didnt win, she added. You just exposed yourself as the coward you are. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser who thought you were so much smarter than everybody else. Goncalves' father tells Kohberger, 'You picked the wrong families' Standing at a lectern, Steven Goncalves faced Kohberger while he read his victim impact statement. Today, we are here to finish what you started, he said. We are here to prove to the world that you picked the wrong families, wrong state, the wrong police officers, the wrong community. You tried to break our community apart. You tried to plant fear, you tried to divide us, Steven Goncalves said. You failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calling Kohberger a complete joke, the older Goncalves said, "Nobody cares about you." "Youre not worth the time, the effort to be remembered in time," he said. "You will be nothing but two initials, forgotten to the wind, no visitors, nothing more than initials on an otherwise unmarked tombstone." Kernodles stepfather tells Kohberger to 'go to hell' Visibly shaking as he addressed Kohberger, Randy Davis said he wished he could take him out into the woods for five minutes to teach him about loss and pain. "Im shaking because I want to reach out to you, but I hope you feel my energy, he said, smacking himself hard on his chest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis then warned Kohberger, "You're gonna go to hell." "You're evil," he said. "You took our children ... you are gonna suffer, man." Then, in closing, Davis said "Go to hell," at which point clapping erupted once again in the courtroom. Cara Northington, mother of victim Xana Kernodle, is comforted at the sentencing hearing Wednesday. (Kyle Green / Pool via AP) Surviving roommate Dylan Mortensen speaks publicly about the murders for the first time Dylan Mortensen and fellow housemate Bethany Funke somehow escaped Kohberger's wrath. And while Funke stayed away and had a friend read her victim impact statement, Mortensen confronted Kohberger in the courtroom. Tearfully, Mortensen said the murders of her friends wrecked her life as well. What he did shattered me in places I didnt know could break, Mortensen said. I was barely 19 when he did this. Dylan Mortensen is embraced after speaking at the sentencing hearing Wednesday. (Kyle Green / Pool via AP) Sitting beside the prosecutors, Mortensen called Kohberger "a hollow vessel, something less than human." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He may have taken so much from me, but he will never get to take my voice, she said. Funke, in her statement, said she remembers her four slain friends every night in her prayers -- and wonders why she was spared. "I still think about this every day," she said in the statement. "Why me? Why did I get to live and not them? For the longest time, I could not even look at their families without feeling sick with guilt." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Russian and Ukrainian negotiators are set to meet in Istanbul on Wednesday for a third round of talks since May, though little progress on ending their three-year-old war is expected as positions remain far apart. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dampened expectations, saying detailed ceasefire talks are not on the agenda. Wednesday's meeting should instead focus on advancing the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war and children abducted by Russia, as well as preparing a meeting at the presidential level, Zelensky told Kiev diplomats on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We need more momentum in the negotiations to end the war," Zelensky said, explaining his insistence on a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Moscow, meanwhile, insists that position papers on possible paths to peace, previously exchanged by the warring parties, are to be discussed at the meeting. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has also cautioned against optimism, saying that "major diplomatic work" would be required to reach rapprochement regarding a ceasefire. While Kiev insists on an unconditional ceasefire to allow for negotiations to end the conflict, Russia has been sticking to its maximum demands, including the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the eastern regions Moscow illegally annexed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine and Russia began holding direct talks for the first time in over three years in May. So far, the negotiations have resulted in a large-scale exchange of prisoners of war, with soldiers under the age of 25 and severely wounded combatants released most recently. The Russian delegation is again to be led by presidential adviser and former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky, according to the Kremlin. The Ukrainian team is set to be led by former defence minister Rustem Umerov, who has since been appointed head of the National Security and Defence Council. We stand on the brink of system failure: Feds up pressure for states to reach deal on the future of the Colorado River The clock is ticking for seven states to figure out how theyll share dwindling water in the Colorado River for the foreseeable future. The Salt Lake Tribune shares an update on the impending deal on what will happen with the Colorado River. In a meeting at the Utah State Capitol on June 26, the rivers four Upper Basin state commissioners further embraced the idea of a divorce with their Lower Basin neighbors an idea also floated at a meeting in eastern Utah last week, as reported by Fox 13. Today we stand on the brink of system failure, said Becky Mitchell, the commissioner for Colorado. We also stand on the precipice of a major decision point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite a few wet winters, storage in Lake Powell and Lake Mead the nations largest reservoirs are teetering close to the dangerously low levels they hit in 2023. We have to deal with reality, said Gene Shawcroft, Utahs commissioner. We dont have a choice. Federal managers are preparing to repeat the emergency measures they took in 2022, like draining Flaming Gorge reservoir to prop up Lake Powell. The priority is to ensure the mega-reservoir stays full enough to continue releasing water to Lower Basin States and generating hydropower. Meanwhile, the states that rely on the Colorado River for their water supply Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and California are up against a 2026 deadline, when the current agreements on how to share the river lapse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But negotiations between the four Upper Basin states, which includes Utah, Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico, have been in a standstill with the remaining three Lower Basin states for more than a year. The Interior Departments acting assistant secretary for water and science, Scott Cameron, has met with leadership in the seven states that use Colorado River water since April, working to broker a deal. We all have to live in the physical world as it is, he said, not as we might hope it will be. Cameron presented water managers with a deadline. The Interior Department plans to release a draft environmental impact statement evaluating different alternatives for the rivers future in December, which will then open to public comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department will make its final decision on how to proceed by June 2026. The goal is to essentially parachute in a seven-state deal as the preferred alternative, Cameron said. For that to work, the states will need to reach an agreement by Nov. 11. By Feb. 14, theyll need to hand over the details of their plan. Whatever the states decide on, Cameron reminded commissioners, will likely take an act of Congress and new policy adopted by most of the affected states legislatures. Theyve been put on notice, Cameron said. Clearly, they would prefer more to have more than a couple of weeks notice to get a bill passed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal government is also working to engage around 30 tribal nations located in the river basin, which have varying water rights and water infrastructure. The idea of framing the future relationship of the river users as a divorce was first pitched by the Lower Basin states, Mitchell said. Under that proposal, the Upper Basin states would release water from Lake Powell based on the average natural flow measured at Lees Ferry, a point just downstream of the reservoir and upstream of both Grand Canyon National Park and Lake Mead. If done correctly, Mitchell said, it should provide the opportunity for the Upper and Lower basins to manage themselves, with the only real point of agreement being the Powell release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And like a divorce, the two parties should be careful to not let legal spats block progress, the commissioners said. The proposal could eliminate the Upper Basins obligation to send a set amount to the Lower Basin states each year. Under the original 1922 compact, the upper states agreed to deliver 7.5 million acre-feet annually. But under the divorce agreement, releases would be based on whats available in the system. The idea is that the Upper Basin and Lower Basin will agree on how much water is released, said Chuck Cullom, executive director of the Upper Colorado River Commission, in a phone interview. Therefore, we dont have to fight about everything else. More than 40 million people in the United States, Mexico and across multiple tribes depend on water from the Colorado River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the climate across the basin warms and snowpack has become less reliable, the Colorado Rivers volume has also declined. It has raised contention between states, where water managers in the Upper Basin say they have taken real-time cuts to grapple with shortages while Lower Basin states which have senior water rights have consumption that consistently exceeds whats available. Reductions in the Upper Basin should not just simply translate to more water to the Lower Basin, Shawcroft said. We ought to be able to use that water within our states to help satisfy our own shortages. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox issued an emergency drought declaration this spring for 17 of the states 29 counties, most of which lie in the Colorado River watershed. Lake Powell sat at 33% full as of the week of June 22. This story was produced by The Salt Lake Tribune and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR)- A Lynchburg grocery store owner was indicted on federal fraud charges involving the alleged trade of SNAP benefits for cash. Rajan Babbar, 59, of Lynchburg, was indicted on one count of SNAP benefits fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and four counts of transacting in a criminally derived property. Babbar is the owner of Taste of India, located on 12th Street. Babbar was approved to be a SNAP retailer in December 2016. According to a press release issued by the U.S. Attorneys Offices Western District, SNAP sales at the store skyrocketed from their previous levels beginning in April 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allegedly, Babbar rang-up false transactions for nonexistent food items and other products during a three-year span. He would then give people cash value for approximately one-half of the value of the SNAP benefits. The indictment included at notice of forfeiture for $383,232 in funds and any commercial property in Lynchburg. Babbar was arrested in January. PREVIOUS REPORT: Lynchburg business owner charged with food stamp and wire fraud Read the full press release below: Lynchburg Store Owner Indicted on Federal Food Stamp Fraud Charges LYNCHBURG, Va. A federal grand jury in Charlottesville returned an indictment today charging a Lynchburg store owner with federal food stamp and wire fraud. Rajan Babbar, 59, of Lynchburg, Virginia, the owner of Taste of India, a medium-sized grocery store in Lynchburg, is accused of fraud regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. SNAP was established by the United States Government to alleviate hunger and malnutrition among low- and middle-income families by increasing their food purchasing power and ability. The grand jury has charged Babbar with one count of SNAP benefits fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and four counts of transacting in criminally derived property. According to the indictment, in 2016 Babbar filed paperwork with the United States Department of Agricultures (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) for Taste of India to become a SNAP retailer. In December 2016, FNS approved Babbars application. Beginning in or around April 2021, it is alleged that SNAP sales at Taste of India skyrocketed from their previous levels. In the three-year span between 2018 and 2020, the average monthly SNAP sales at the store were approximately $5,324 per month. In 2021 and 2022, the average monthly SNAP sales were approximately $53,147 per month. In 2023 and 2024, the average monthly SNAP sales were approximately $60,385 per month. The indictment alleges that Babbar permitted individuals to exchange their SNAP benefits for cash. Babbar allegedly rang-up false transactions for nonexistent food items and other products. He then provided those individuals with cash for approximately one-half the value of the SNAP benefits. Along with the eight criminal counts, the indictment includes a notice of forfeiture seeking to criminally forfeit approximately $383,232 in funds, along with a commercial real estate property in Lynchburg. United States Attorney C. Todd Gilbert, Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the USDA-OIG, and Stephen Farina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBIs Richmond Division. The USDA-OIG, FBI, and Lynchburg Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Brett is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Advertisement 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. LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR) Lynchburg students recently attended the 2025 Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project Conference, where they earned top recognition. The students were awarded the Wheeler Award, which is presented to student teams that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and a commitment to substance prevention among youth. The students earned this award by completing the 2024-2025 STAN Plan. The STAN Plan is a tool developed to set and achieve long-term prevention goals, according to Horizon Behavioral Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result of their achievements at the conference, Horizon Behavioral Health and the HYPE Club were awarded the Virginia ABC Mini-Grant to help the two organizations youth-led initiative. According to officials at Horizon Behavioral Health, the grant will support activities that promote healthy choices and reduce substance use among the youth in Lynchburg. The HYPE Club is inviting local youth to join their upcoming project, Canvas of Hope a public mural that aims to spread a message of hope, resilience, and mental health awareness. The mural will be created at 1415 Park Avenue on Thursday, July 24th, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Youth 18 and under are invited to participate in the painting process. We are incredibly proud of the Lynchburg students for their hard work, leadership, and vision, said Januwaa Davis, Prevention Manager at Horizon Behavioral Health. Their efforts continue to inspire change and bring hope to the community, and this mural will be a lasting reminder of their dedication. Advertisement 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. Austin, Tx (FOX 44) Governor Greg Abbott has announced Bonnie J. Dunbar, PhD of Texas A&M will be inducted into the Texas Womens Hall of Fame Bonnie J. Dunbar, PhD (Aerospace Engineering) is recognized for her significant contributions to engineering design solutions for human space flight and for her leadership in STEM education. A retired NASA astronaut, Professor Dunbar flew on five Space Shuttle missions, including two dockings with the Mir space station. She is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and Director of the Aerospace Human Systems Laboratory at Texas A&M University in College Station. A total of five women will be inducted this year into the Texas Women`s Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding achievements and for changing the course of Texas history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas Women`s Hall of Fame recognizes remarkable Texas women for their individual achievements and enduring impact on our great state, said Governor Abbott. Cecilia and I are honored to welcome these five trailblazers to be inducted this year for their exceptional contributions in business, public service, science, and more. Each honoree is an inspiration for the next generation of achievers who will follow in their footsteps. Others to be inducted include: Honorable Eva Guzman (Law) is recognized for her devotion to the rule of law and improving outcomes for children in the child welfare system. The first Latina elected to statewide office in Texas, Justice Guzman served on the Supreme Court of Texas, the 14th Court of Appeals, and as a district court judge in Harris County. In over 20 years on the bench, she ruled on thousands of trial and appellate cases and authored over 900 opinions. An American Law Institute member and board member of Texas2036 and The Center for American and International Law, Guzman is a partner at Wright Close & Barger in Houston. Vicki Hollub (Business) is recognized for her outstanding business leadership. President and CEO of Occidental, an international energy company headquartered in Houston and one of the largest oil and gas producers in Texas and the U.S., Hollub has held management and technical positions for more than four decades with responsibilities on three continents. A mineral engineer from the University of Alabama, she serves on the Lockheed Martin and American Petroleum Institute boards and was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adair Margo (Arts/Philanthropy) is recognized for more than four decades of leadership in the arts and humanities. A third generation El Pasoan and former art gallery owner, Margo became devoted to the artist Tom Lea, preserving his legacy through award-winning books and founding the Tom Lea Institute. She served as Chairman of the President`s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities under President George W. Bush and has taught at The University of Texas at El Paso and New Mexico State University. Christine A. Nix, PhD (Law Enforcement) is recognized for her almost 50 years of service as a U.S. Army Reserve officer, local and state law enforcement officer, and university professor. Dr. Nix made history in 1994 becoming the first African American woman promoted into the elite Texas Rangers Division of the Department of Public Safety. She now teaches new generations of law enforcement officers, attorneys, and more at a four-year institution of higher learning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COLLEGE STATION, Texas (FOX 44) The beloved mascot and First Lady of Aggieland had to have her right eye removed after a glaucoma diagnosis. Texas A&M University President General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III issued a statement on Wednesday morning, saying that under the watchful eye of Reveille Xs Mascot Corporals, it came to the universitys attention she had been experiencing some discomfort and cloudiness in her right eye. This issue unfortunately progressed. During a recent check-up, Miss Rev was diagnosed with glaucoma. At the recommendation of Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital veterinarians, Miss Rev underwent surgery to relieve any discomfort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Welsh said that during surgery, the veterinary team discovered signs of abnormal tissue and removed her eye out of an abundance of caution. The tissue was sent to an ocular pathologist for evaluation, which is standard practice. President Welsh said Miss Rev came through the surgery successfully, has been discharged and is resting. She will take a brief hiatus from engagements as she fully recovers. According to her veterinary team, Miss Rev is expected to be back this fall. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Reuters) -Universal Music Group, the world's biggest music label, disclosed on Monday that it had confidentially filed for a U.S. listing. Universal Music, whose primary listing is in the Netherlands, did not reveal the size of the U.S. offering or how much it was planning to raise. The company was valued at about 49.65 billion euros ($58.05 billion) based on its Monday closing price on the Dutch exchange, according to LSEG data. The stock is up about 10% this year. Billionaire Bill Ackman-led Pershing Square, one of the major stockholders in Universal Music, had previously pushed the company to list its shares in the United States. The Netherlands-based company's roster of stars includes Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Drake, The Weeknd, Ariana Grande, and Harry Styles, according to its website. Companies are lining up to list their shares in the U.S. to take advantage of a strong rebound in the country's equity markets following a brief lull due to uncertainty surrounding President Donald Trump's tariff policies. Confidential filings allow companies to keep financial and strategic information private while engaging with regulators and assessing investor appetite ahead of public disclosure. ($1 = 0.8554 euros) (Reporting by Prakhar Srivastava in Bengaluru; Editing by Mohammed Safi Shamsi) French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, are suing right-wing podcaster Candace Owens, alleging defamation and that she profited off a conspiracy theory suggesting Brigitte was born a male. In a lawsuit filed in Delaware this week, the Macrons alleged Owens disregarded all credible evidence disproving her claim in favor of platforming known conspiracy theorists and proven defamers. These claims are demonstrably false, and Owens knew they were false when she published them. Yet, she published them anyway, the lawsuit reads. And the reason is clear: it is not the pursuit of truth, but the pursuit of fame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A representative for Owens said in a statement she is not shutting up. This is a foreign government attacking the First Amendment rights of an American independent journalist. Candace repeatedly requested an interview with Brigitte Macron. Instead of offering a comment, Brigitte is resorting to trying to bully a reporter into submission, the representative added. In France, politicians can bully journalists, but this is not France. Its America. Candace will address everything on her show today, where she will continue to express her First Amendment rights. Owens has gained notoriety in recent years as a leading conservative commentator and supporter of President Trump. In June, however, she said she was embarrassed that she campaigned for Trump. She was a top personality at the conservative Daily Wire before a contentious falling out with the company and its leadership, which played out widely across social media, and starting her own media company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owens has sparked outrage from Democrats and media watchdogs for years with her commentary on current events and attacked Brigitte Macron on social media as recently as last week. Updated at 1:49 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron are suing Candace Owens, the former Maga influencer, after she falsely claimed Frances first lady was a man. The French president and his wife are willing to travel to the US for the case, should it go ahead, to end what their lawyer described as a relentless and unjustified smear campaign. The 218-page lawsuit, filed in Delaware on Wednesday, accuses Ms Owens of publishing outlandish, defamatory and far-fetched fictions, chief among them the conspiracy theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux in a podcast series titled Becoming Brigitte. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March last year, Ms Owens insisted in a post on X: After looking into this, I would stake my entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is in fact a man. Any journalist or publication that is trying to dismiss this plausibility is immediately identifiable as establishment. I have never seen anything like this in my life. The implications here are terrifying. I do not intend to let up on this story and I am calling on other journalists to look into this explosive story and report accordingly. Candace Owens said: I would stake my entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is in fact a man - Joe Raedle/Getty Images It is rare for a serving world leader to personally sue an online influencer over their content. In a statement, the Macrons said: Because Ms Owens systematically reaffirmed these falsehoods in response to each of our attorneys repeated requests for a retraction, we ultimately concluded that referring the matter to a court of law was the only remaining avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Owens, 36, who has millions of followers on Instagram and YouTube and made her name as a conservative activist, will address the lawsuit on her show on Wednesday. She is married to George Farmer, the former boss of Parler, a social media platform. Once a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, Ms Owens has since broken with the US president and said she was embarrassed she once campaigned for him. The lawsuit claims that the Macrons have suffered substantial reputational damage and have spent considerable sums of money to correct the public record. The case centres on Becoming Brigitte, an eight-part podcast series Ms Owens released this year, and social media posts linked to it. It has received more than 2.3 million views on YouTube. Grotesque narrative In their filing, the Macrons claim Ms Owens has used [a] false statement about Mrs Macrons gender to promote her independent platform, gain notoriety and make money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They say she ignored multiple attempts by the Macrons to engage. Ms Owens said that she reached out to Mrs Macron for an interview. Ms Owens had created a grotesque narrative designed to inflame and degrade. The result is relentless bullying on a worldwide scale. She has built a brand on provocation, not truth, the complaint alleges. Mrs Macron has been the subject of several conspiracy theory-driven transvestigations, where social media conspiracists baselessly allege she is a trans woman. They first erupted in France in 2021, but later spread to the US and was fanned by high-profile Maga figures, including Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After initially ignoring the toxic rumours, in 2022, Mrs Macron filed a defamation lawsuit in France against a blogger and self-proclaimed clairvoyant who relayed the claims. She initially won the case, but it was overturned on appeal and she is now challenging that decision. The cospiracy theory was fanned by high-profile Maga figures including Tucker Carlson, right, and Joe Rogan Last year, Mr Macron reacted publicly for the first time, saying: The worst thing is false information and fabricated scenarios, with people who end up believing them including in the most private aspects of your life. The couples court filing also denies Ms Owens claims that the president was statutorily raped after he met Mrs Macron when he was a 15-year-old student and she was a 39-year-old married teacher and mother of three. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their relationship had always remained within the bounds of the law, the couple insisted. Ms Owens also mentioned in her series the idea that the French president was connected to MKUltra, a secret CIA programme that conducted human experiments to develop mind-control techniques using drugs, psychological manipulation and torture, and that Mr and Mrs Macron are blood relatives, according to the document. It says: President Macron has not participated in, nor is he the product of, any government mind-control programmes. In a statement, a spokesman for Ms Owens said: Candace Owens is not shutting up. This is a foreign government attacking the First Amendment rights of an American independent journalist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Candace repeatedly requested an interview with Brigitte Macron. Instead of offering a comment, Brigitte is resorting to trying to bully a reporter into submission. In France, politicians can bully journalists, but this is not France. Its America. Candace will address everything on her show today, where she will continue to express her First Amendment rights. 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. French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, have sued American hard-right podcaster Candace Owens for defamation, alleging that the influencer profited off of spreading a false rumor that the French first lady was born a biological male. In their suit, filed in Delaware state court, the Macrons allege that Owens has used this false statement to promote her independent platform, gain notoriety, and make money, including launching an eight-part podcast series called Becoming Brigitte, in which she pushes various conspiracy theories about the Macrons and their relationship. According to the 219-page filing, Owens, a conservative commentator and former communications director of Turning Point USA, began promoting theories about the French first ladys gender identity in 2024, claiming that she was born biologically male, stole another persons identity and is committing incest in her marriage with the French president all of which the Macrons have vociferously denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Owens has doubled down on her allegations, even making T-shirts with Brigitte Macrons face fashioned as the cover of TIME Magazine with the tagline man of the year below her photograph. I would stake my entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is in fact a man, Owens posted to X in March 2024, after her initial podcast episode about the French first lady gained traction online. The Elysee declined to comment further on the suit. A spokesperson for Owens slammed the Macrons' suit as a "foreign government attacking the First Amendment rights of an American independent journalist." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Candace Owens is not shutting up," the spokesperson said in a statement. "Candace repeatedly requested an interview with Brigitte Macron. Instead of offering a comment, Brigitte is resorting to trying to bully a reporter into submission. In France, politicians can bully journalists, but this is not France. It's America. Candace will address everything on her show today, where she will continue to express her First Amendment rights." In the filing, the Macrons allege that Owens commentary has resulted in relentless bullying on a worldwide scale and demand a jury trial in the state of Delaware, where Owens businesses are based. The suit comes as the Macrons pursue a separate legal battle back home against two women for pushing the same transphobic theory about the presidents wife. While a French court initially found the two women guilty of libel in 2024, ordering them to pay 8,000 euros to the first lady and 5,000 euros to her brother, who was also a party in the trial, the women were acquitted by the Paris Court of Appeal earlier this month. The French first lady filed an appeal in that case July 14. House Republican leaders planned to get some work done this week before starting a five-week summer break, and as recently as Monday, House Speaker Mike Johnson told members that he had no intention of sending lawmakers home early. The Louisiana Republican soon after changed his mind for exceedingly awkward reasons. The chambers five-week break became a six-week break because Johnson wanted to avoid a vote over the release of the governments files on the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. NBC News reported: [The House Rules Committee] typically passes a rule for legislation on Monday that sets up debate and allows bills to come to the floor for the week. But Democrats had promised Monday to force the committee to take more votes on whether to require the Trump administration to release all remaining files from the Epstein case. To avoid embarrassing votes on Epstein, Republicans decided to recess the committee and not attempt to pass a rule for bills this week. Without a rule, Republicans would be left with nothing to vote on after Wednesday. It was just last week when Johnson appeared on a prominent far-right podcast and said, in reference to the Justice Departments Epstein investigation, We should put everything out there and let the people decide. I agree with the sentiment that we need to we need to put it out there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But like his commitment not to send members home early, the House speaker reversed course without explanation. In theory, it wouldve been easy for Republican leaders to simply allow votes on the Democratic amendments related to Epstein disclosures and transparency. Why didnt they? Because in practice, GOP leaders know that those amendments wouldve passed with strong bipartisan backing. Or put another way, the House speaker by his own admission cut short the chambers work, and even scrapped plans to advance bills he likes, all to avoid the House exercising its will on releasing Epstein files. Johnson would rather do nothing than allow members to vote on a measure that many of his own allies support. Its worth appreciating the underlying motivations. The New York Times summarized: Mr. Johnsons decision to shut down the House early was the latest example of how the speaker has in many ways ceded the chambers independence in order to please or avoid angering Mr. Trump. He has deferred to the president on matters large and small, including when it comes to Congresss spending power. He quietly maneuvered this year to yield the Houses ability to weigh in on Mr. Trumps tariffs, in order to spare Republicans from having to cast politically tricky votes on whether to end them. In the case of the Epstein files, House Republicans are once again surrendering their institutional autonomy to appease a vengeful president. Ive seen some suggestions in recent days that Johnsons actions might be motivated by foreknowledge: Perhaps, the argument goes, the House speaker knows that theres damaging information about the president in the Epstein files, which is why he seems so desperate to avoid disclosures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im skeptical of this, in part because its unlikely that Johnson is fully aware of the files contents, and in part because of his declaration last week in support of transparency. The simplest explanation is also the easiest to believe: The House speaker has effectively accepted the role of a sycophantic White House employee. Trump doesnt want to see a bipartisan vote in support of disclosures, so Johnson has gone to humiliating lengths to deny a bipartisan vote in support of disclosures. The core question at the heart of this weeks developments on Capitol Hill is obvious: What is Johnson so afraid of? The answer is equally clear: Hes afraid of making his boss in the Oval Office unhappy. At a White House event earlier this month, the House speaker handed Trump the gavel he used after the chamber approved the partys far-right domestic policy megabill. The symbolic significance of the gesture continues to resonate. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com During his latest Oval Office event, Donald Trump went after Barack Obama in deeply unsettling ways, falsely accusing his Democratic predecessor of being guilty as part of a purported scheme that the Republican described as treason. The incumbent president went on to insist that theres proof which in reality does not exist of Obama being seditious and trying to lead a coup. But as ridiculous as Trumps anti-Obama hysterics were, the Democratic former president wasnt his only target. It looks like Adam Schiff really did a bad thing, the Republican said, referring to the Democratic senator from California. They have him. Now, lets see what happens. Its not up to me. I stay out of it, purposely. But its mortgage loan fraud. Thats a big deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right off the bat, its important to emphasize that Schiff has already responded to these allegations; he's insisted that hes done nothing wrong; and the evidence to the contrary appears difficult to take seriously. Nevertheless, The Washington Post reported this week that a criminal case against the senator a longtime Trump target, dating back to the presidents first impeachment has been referred to the Justice Department by Fannie Mae. Whats more, it was striking to see Trump claim on Tuesday afternoon that hes purposely staying out of the matter, given the degree to which hes already done the opposite. Indeed, exactly one week earlier, the president used his social media platform to accuse Schiff of mortgage fraud and being a Crook. Soon after, Trump declared on camera that he would love to see the Californian brought to justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the days that followed, the president asserted as fact that Schiff falsified documents and is now in BIG TROUBLE. The Republican published a related item over the weekend in which he similarly declared, Adam Schiff is a THIEF! He should be prosecuted. So much for staying out of it. But stepping back, the fact that Trump is peddling dubious claims against one of his favorite targets all while pretending hes maintaining a healthy distance from a story hes obviously directly involved in isnt the biggest problem. In fact, what makes this controversy all the more important is how it came to exist in the first place. The New Republics Greg Sargent reported this week that the Fannie Mae Crimes Unit and the Federal Housing Finance Authority (FHFA) referred this to prosecutors as part of a complex process described by experts as highly irregular, extremely unusual and extraordinarily unusual. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It led Sargent to wonder whether Trump is corrupting the bureaucracy ... by seeding it with loyalists at all levels who are willing to manipulate it to carry out his crazed vendettas. I have a hunch we havent heard the last of this one. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com In early June, as Donald Trumps relationship with Elon Musk deteriorated, the Republican megadonor targeted the president in a rather provocative way. Time to drop the really big bomb: [Trump] is in the Epstein files, Musk wrote online, adding, Have a nice day, DJT! Nearly two months later, the tweet is gone, but the claim is relevant anew. The Wall Street Journal reported: When Justice Department officials reviewed what Attorney General Pam Bondi called a truckload of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein earlier this year, they discovered that Donald Trumps name appeared multiple times, according to senior administration officials. In May, Bondi and her deputy informed the president at a meeting in the White House that his name was in the Epstein files, the officials said. Many other high-profile figures were also named, Trump was told. Some caveats are in order. Right off the bat, this reporting hasnt been independently verified by other news organizations, including MSNBC. Whats more, the fact that the presidents name reportedly appeared in the Epstein files is notable, but it doesnt necessarily mean that he and others who were included in the materials were involved in wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Joyce Vance, a former federal prosecutor and an MSNBC legal analyst, explained via Bluesky, Lots of peoples names end up in an investigative file. It doesnt necessarily mean theyve done anything wrong. That said, Vance added, what makes it interesting is that Trump still wont agree to release the files the ones hes apparently included in after suggesting the opposite during his 2024 presidential campaign. Whats more, it was just last week when a reporter asked the president whether Attorney General Pam Bondi told him that his name appeared in the Epstein files. No, no, he responded. Trump acknowledged at that point I believe for the first time that hed received a personal briefing on this case, which was notable in its own right, but the exchange appears even more important now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, if the president was briefed on the investigation and told that his name did appear in the files, it would raise new questions about why the Republican felt the need to lie to the public. Whats more, three days after the president made those on-camera comments, NBC News also reported that Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin, relying on information from a protected FBI whistleblower disclosure, alleged that FBI personnel were instructed to flag any records that mentioned Trump as part of their handling of the Epstein files. Steven Cheung, a White House spokesperson, responded to the new WSJ reporting by saying, The fact is that the president kicked [Epstein] out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media. Of course, that wasnt a denial, per se. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For their part, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also said in a written statement, The DOJ and FBI reviewed the Epstein Files and reached the conclusion set out in the July 6 memo. Nothing in the files warranted further investigation or prosecution, and we have filed a motion in court to unseal the underlying grand jury transcripts. As part of our routine briefing, we made the president aware of the findings. That wasnt a denial of the underlying reporting, either. Finally, theres FBI Director Kash Patel, who used to promote Epstein conspiracy theories before changing direction, who responded to the WSJ with a written statement of his own: The memo released on July 6th is consistent with the thorough review conducted by the FBI and DOJ. The criminal leakers and Fake News media tries [sic] tirelessly to undermine President Trump with smears and lies, and this story is no different. Watch this space. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com During campaign seasons, Barack Obama maintains a rather high profile, appearing in Democratic ads and headlining Democratic rallies. Theres no great mystery as to why: The former president remains one of the nations most liked political leaders. But in terms of day-to-day political events, Obama tends to maintain a relatively low profile, steering clear of the arena. In fact, hes sometimes criticized in progressive circles for not engaging in more partisan and political fights. There are, however, occasional exceptions. NBC News reported: Former President Barack Obamas office issued a rare rebuke of President Donald Trump on Tuesday after the president accused his predecessor of having committed treason and rigging the 2016 and 2020 elections. A written statement issued from a spokesperson for the former president spanned just six sentences, though it said quite a bit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, the statement read. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. The document that Obamas office referred to was, of course, the bizarre report from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, issued last week, which alleged that Trumps Russia scandal was the result of a treasonous conspiracy. The document was quickly discredited, with independent analyses characterizing Gabbards report as, among other things, ludicrous. As for Team Obamas reference to Rubio, this, of course, reminded the public that just five years ago, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee published devastating findings about Trumps Russia scandal, at one point literally describing a direct tie between senior Trump Campaign officials and the Russian intelligence services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Gabbard and her allies want to argue that Trump's secretary of state, who led the Senate Intelligence Committee at the time, was part of a treasonous conspiracy against Trump, theyre welcome to try, though this doesnt seem like an especially smart idea. Or put another way, the Obama statement worked because it had reality on its side. The incumbent president, however, doesnt seem to care. On Monday, Trump amplified a fake video that appeared to have been created with AI that depicted Obama being arrested in the Oval Office. A day later, in the Oval Office, the Republican explicitly endorsed the Justice Department targeting Obama, suggesting that the former Democratic president is guilty as part of a scheme that Trump considers treason. Trump falsely claimed that Obama has been caught directly of unspecified crimes, added that his administration found proof which, again, does not exist that Obama was seditious and trying to lead a coup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incumbent concluded, Whether its right or wrong, its time to go after people. Obamas been caught directly. So people say, Oh, you know, a group. Its not a group. Its Obama. Its not Obama. The underlying claims are fiction. Trumps entire conspiracy theory is rooted in a delusional foundation. Whats less clear is what might happen next. Under normal circumstances, a sitting president accusing his predecessor of treason would be a stop-the-presses moment in American politics, but the reaction to Trumps meltdown was largely muted, in part because so many observers worked from the assumption that the Republican routinely makes bonkers claims, which amount to very little, and his latest absurdities are little more than a clumsy effort to distract attention away from his Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Perhaps. But with the White House pulling the strings at the Justice Department, and Attorney General Pam Bondi effectively positioning herself as a political operative whos a little too eager to make the president happy, its hardly outlandish to wonder whether federal prosecutors might actually try to build a case against the former Democratic president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around this time four years ago, Charlie Sykes said during an appearance on MSNBC, A clown with a flamethrower still has a flamethrower. Its a quote that came to mind anew this week. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Its been five days since Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard released a bizarre report that alleged that Donald Trumps Russia scandal was the result of a treasonous conspiracy. The document was quickly discredited, with independent analyses characterizing Gabbards report as ludicrous. Donald Trump has nevertheless seized on the absurd claims, insisting that the DNI report represents proof that Barack Obama, among others, is guilty of treason. Most congressional Republicans havent been quite as hysterical as the president, but if the White House was counting on its GOP allies to read from the approved script, it didnt have to wait too long to see the usual suspects playing their assigned roles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Ron Johnson, whos never met a conspiracy theory he didnt like, told The Hill, I want the press to be honest. I want Pulitzer Prizes to be returned. They were either duped or complicit in pushing that false narrative that put America in political turmoil for years. As is often the case with the Wisconsin Republicans claims, this didnt make any sense. News organizations covered the consensus findings of U.S. intelligence agencies, special counsel Robert Mueller and his teams investigation, and the conclusions of the Republican-led Senate intelligence Committee, all of which proved that the core elements of Trumps Russia scandal were correct. Indeed, none of their findings has been discredited by Gabbard or anyone else. The senators comments came on the heels of a related claim from House Speaker Mike Johnson, who apparently didnt read the DNI report before promoting it. DISMANTLING THE DEEP STATE! the Louisiana Republican wrote online. New evidence from [Gabbard] confirms what weve long known: The Russia hoax was a political hit job manufactured by Obama officials and weaponized by intel agencies to take down President Trump. But Gabbards report didnt confirm anything of the kind. Johnson was peddling fiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps the most notable response, however, came from House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan. The right-wing Ohio Republican wrote via social media: We told you about the Russia hoax for years. [Gabbard] confirmed it. Why is the media silent? Obviously, those who claim the Russia scandal is a hoax are wrong. Its equally obvious that the suggestion Gabbard has somehow confirmed far-right assumptions about the scandal is absurd. But I was especially interested in Jordan asking about the relative silence from major independent news organizations. For observers mired in far-right fever swamps, this must be confusing. The nations director of national intelligence uncovered evidence of a coup! knee-jerk MAGA partisans have said. Obama committed treason! One of the biggest political scandals in a generation was discredited! Where are the front-page headlines? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what these questions overlook is the inconvenient fact that news organizations didnt ignore Gabbards report. Rather, news organizations did what Jordan, Trump and too many Republicans did not: They read Gabbards report and noticed how pitiful it is. NBC News, for example, noted the degree to which Trumps DNI tried to rewrite history. The Washington Post published a fact-check report that highlighted the many glaring flaws in Gabbards findings. Philip Bump, who spent years covering the underlying scandal at the Post, described Gabbards conclusions as ludicrous. An analysis from The Bulwark explained, [E]ven a cursory look at the actual substance of Gabbards dramatic claims shows ... a nothingburger. There is no actual substance. Instead, there is blatant sleight of hand and manipulation of evidence. Jordan asked, Why is the media silent? But the media hasnt been silent: Its just presented Trump and his sycophants with facts they dont want to hear. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Todays edition of quick hits. * A closely watched effort: A federal judge in Florida ruled Wednesday that its hands are tied in releasing federal grand jury transcripts from 2005 and 2007 in connection with an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. The ruling was separate from a request that the Justice Department has pending related to a grand jury in the Southern District of New York, where Epstein was ultimately indicted. * Kilmar Abrego Garcias case: A magistrate judge on Wednesday paused Kilmar Abrego Garcias release from federal custody, shortly after a separate judge ruled that the man, who was mistakenly deported in March to El Salvador, should be released while he awaits trial on human smuggling charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Conditions in Gaza: Doctors and aid groups have warned of a hunger crisis now reaching a crescendo in the besieged Palestinian enclave under Israeli military assault. Four children were among 15 people who died from severe malnutrition in just 24 hours, the Palestinian Health Ministry said Tuesday. The ministry said Wednesday that another 10 people had died of malnutrition. * The key point to remember as Trump makes new boasts about trade deals that might not meet the hype: President Donald Trump has begun announcing a suite of new bilateral trade agreements. The details of the deals and who, if anyone, stands to benefit remain largely unknown. * Regressive radicalism at the EPA: The Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to rescind a landmark 2009 legal opinion that greenhouse gas emissions put human health at risk, which underpins many of the governments actions to combat climate change, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the decision was not yet public. * Punishing student loan borrowers (again): Without much notice, the Education Department has suspended student loan forgiveness under a long-standing repayment plan, offering no timeline for resumption and little explanation for the decision. Income-Based Repayment is one of four federal plans that tie monthly payments to earnings and family size with the promise of loan forgiveness after 20 or 25 years of payments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Confirmation news: The Senate on Tuesday confirmed Terrance Cole to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, in a 50-47 vote along party lines. Cole, a 22-year veteran of the DEA, serves as Virginias secretary of public safety and homeland security. He was nominated to lead the federal agency after President Donald Trumps first pick, Florida sheriff Chad Chronister, withdrew from consideration amid criticism from conservative figures. * After seeing the video of this, it was hard not to be concerned: Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., appeared to freeze up while he was speaking on Fox Business around 5 p.m. ET, a moment that led anchor Larry Kudlow to cut the feed and say the issue was a technical issue with a microphone. * In an executive order in March, Trump directed the Park Service to review plaques, films and other materials to look for information at odds with his approach to patriotism. Evidently, employees did what they were told: According to internal documents reviewed by The New York Times, employees of the National Park Service have flagged descriptions and displays at scores of parks and historic sites for review in connection with President Trumps directive to remove or cover up materials that inappropriately disparage Americans. See you tomorrow. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) A Madisonville man was arrested on multiple charges Tuesday night, after authorities say he shoved an officer and attempted to run away while being questioned about a warrant. According to Madisonville Police, an officer located Thelester Washington, 55, just before 10 p.m. on Arch Street. While the officer spoke with dispatch to confirm if there was an active warrant for Washingtons arrest, the officer reported that Washington reached for his waistband several times, but denied having anything on him. The officer said he instructed Washington to place his hands behind his back, but Washington began running straight towards him, shoving him to the ground as he ran. While chasing Washington, the officer said he saw him toss a handgun near a house before he turned around and stopped fleeing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a search, the officer says he found a methamphetamine pipe inside of his backpack. The Madisonville Police Department said that Washington has prior felony convictions that prohibit him from possessing a handgun. Washington was booked into the Hopkins County Jail and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, fleeing or evading police, assault and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Universal Music Group unit Virgin Music Group's $775 million acquisition of Downtown Music may hinder competition and remove an important competitor, EU antitrust regulators warned on Tuesday, a move which may require concessions from the world's largest music company. Virgin announced the deal in December last year which subsequently generated pushback from a wide swathe of European independent labels. The European Commission set out its concerns on Tuesday as it opened an in-depth investigation into the deal, confirming a Reuters story last week. "After the acquisition, UMG would likely have the ability and incentive to use commercially sensitive data of third-party record labels for its own business activities notably related to recorded music," the EU executive said in a statement. It said UMG's access to such data may harm rival record labels and may ultimately further strengthen UMG, already a leader in the market for the wholesale distribution of recorded music in Europe. The EU competition watchdog said the deal may remove Downtown as a rival in the market for artist and label services. Virgin Music Group said it would work constructively with the Commission and criticised what it said is "the wilful misrepresentation of market data by self-interested parties who represent a tiny fraction of the thousands of independent labels that make up the independent community globally". "Our initial projected timeframe for the completion of the transaction remains unchanged," a spokesperson said, referring to the estimated timeline of the second half of 2025 for closing the deal. The Commission set a November 26 deadline for its decision. Downtown owns a major music publisher and a number of other businesses that help musicians collect royalties. The deal has triggered criticism from the European independent music label group Impala, the European Composer and Songwriter Alliance and the Worldwide Independent Network, with some even calling for a regulatory veto. "There is a point when big is too big for the ecosystem. Our view is that the EC is right to dig deeper, and we believe blocking this deal is the only way to safeguard competition and diversity," Impala Executive Chair Helen Smith said in a statement. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Jan Harvey) WASHINGTON Since he was freed from a federal detention facility one month ago, Mahmoud Khalil said he often hears a question: Can regular people shift U.S. policy toward Israel-Palestine, and do anything about the crackdown on speech about the subject? People tell him they feel trapped or unable to challenge the American military and diplomatic support enabling Israels devastating ongoing offensive in Gaza. Khalil, a green card holder who organized protests against the Gaza war while a graduate student at Columbia University and whom the Trump administration is attempting to deport, recommends a broader view. The change is happening, although they are trying to distract us from that, Khalil, an Algerian citizen of Palestinian descent, told HuffPost on Tuesday. The fact that this administration took an extra mile in prosecuting me, in coming after the student movement, is a great testament to the success of this movement, where you have the President of the United States and all his Cabinet focusing on curbing the student movement because it is working. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khalil traveled to Washington, D.C., this week in hopes of encouraging change through Congress. He spent a whirlwind two days meeting with nearly 20 lawmakers, nearly all Democrats, from younger progressives like Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) to powerful established figures like Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) His priority was urging legislators to stop the U.S.-funded genocide in Gaza, Khalil said, noting mass starvation there as Israel tightly limits the entry and distribution of supplies, forcing Palestinians to crowd at aid hubs, where they often face firing from Israeli soldiers and American contractors that has killed more than 1,000. (The U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation disputes that toll.) Theyre weaponizing food, actually, to engineer a famine in Gaza, he continued. On Wednesday, a coalition of more than 100 humanitarian groups, which Israel is largely barring from operating in the region, issued a joint statement accusing Tel Aviv of starving 2.1 million Palestinians and noting that using starvation as a tool of warfare is a war crime. Israel argues its campaign is focused on the militant group Hamas and it limits harm to civilians. Khalil and his allies are not backing down, he said: We will continue to resist until every Palestinian gets justice, freedom and dignity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is additionally seeking to hold the Trump administration and Columbia University accountable, Khalil continued, charging both with a broader effort to silence speech. Former Columbia University graduate student and Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil shakes hands with Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) outside of his office in the Cannon House Office Building on July 22 in Washington, D.C. Anna Moneymaker via Getty Images On Monday, Columbia disciplined nearly 80 students, including by revoking degrees from some, for participating in antiwar demonstrations; the school hopes to win back $400 million in federal funding President Donald Trump is withholding over its alleged failure to combat antisemitism. The administration has characterized protests over Gaza as inherently antisemitic for criticizing Israel and highlighted complaints from some Jewish students, though critics have in turn accused Trump of exploiting allegations of antisemitism to attack higher education. Trump is meanwhile still pursuing deportation for Khalil and several other student protesters, though federal judges have repeatedly halted the effort. Strikingly, Khalils visit came almost one year to the day since Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress amid ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza. Though more than 100 lawmakers skipped his speech and both then-President Joe Biden and Trump have questioned his strategy, Netanyahu has continued receiving U.S. weapons as Israeli forces have killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and his stated goals for the war, including the release of dozens of hostages still held by Hamas, have remained unfulfilled. Khalils Washington trip demonstrated how entrenched hardline pro-Israel narratives remain in elite circles. Giving a live interview on CNN Tuesday, Khalil was asked repeatedly by anchor Pamela Brown to condemn Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is disingenuous and absurd to ask such questions when literally 62,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel, Khalil told Brown, adding he would not engage with the question because selective condemnations wouldnt get us anywhere. Nearly two years into the war, he told HuffPost he is still surprised by the indifference that U.S. policymakers have regarding Palestine and their level of complicity in such flagrant and obvious war crimes. In his meetings with legislators, Khalil said they described how difficult it remains in Congress to advocate for Palestinians because of the influence of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), whose donors often fund campaigns against politicians critical of Israel. Still, amid increased awareness of the crisis in Gaza, none can claim that they didnt know [and] the American public are awakened now, he said. Thats why its very important that we continue to push unfortunately, institutions are a little bit slow in responding to the change on the ground, but its happening. Khalil pointed to the recent victory in the Democratic primary for New York City mayor by Zohran Mamdani, who has been involved in advocacy against the war; the two men recently appeared together onstage at a comedy show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporting Palestine is not a taboo in U.S. politics its happening, he said. As Khalil and his group walked along, a group of antiwar activists yelling slogans in the hot sun became visibly emotional upon spotting him. Several young staffers in congressional office buildings asked to have their picture taken with him and he carried along a blue gift bag, a present from Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.) for his infant son Deen, who was born while Khalil was in immigration detention. They wanted to make an example out of me. They wanted me to be intimidated so I wouldnt speak for the rights of the Palestinian people and I find it very hard to reconcile my silence where my people are getting killed. I really cant justify anyones silence when such atrocities are happening under our nose, Khalil told HuffPost. When Khalil was targeted for deportation and arrested in March, the administration claimed his beliefs meant his presence in the U.S. could hurt American foreign policy, without accusing him of any crime. On May 28, district judge Michael Farbiarz said the administration had not proved that case. U.S. officials then told the judge alleged irregularities in Khalils green card application provided additional justification for detaining him, but on June 20, Farbiarz ruled that Khalil should be released on bail. The administration maintains its assertion he is a threat: during Khalils congressional meetings on Tuesday, the Department of Homeland Security issued an X post calling Khalil a terrorist sympathizer and accusing him of antisemitism. Khalil and his lawyers argue the government has subjected him to major reputational harm and highlight his rejection of antisemitism. Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil marches with supporters one day after he was released from ICE detention during a rally outside of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Manhattan on June 22 in New York City. Spencer Platt via Getty Images Khalil emphasized that a reckoning over alarming U.S. policies must acknowledge they have been bipartisan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration laid the groundwork to my detention, to the repression of freedom of speech in this country, by aligning with the Israeli narrative and the Zionist narrative in this country that what is happening is antisemitism or violence, he told HuffPost. To me its a no-brainer that Biden was as bad as Trump is. Its just, this administration, theyre not shying from [it] the Biden administration would actually gaslight you: Oh, were actually for peace or were helping. No, youre not you literally gave Israel everything it needs to commit this genocide. In addition to fighting the governments attempt to detain and deport him in courts in New Jersey and Louisiana, Khalil is now seeking $20 million in damages or an official apology from the Trump administration for his detention. HuffPost asked if he has faith American legal processes can provide justice. We have to try I want accountability through any avenue, Khalil said. Im confident I have a very good case as a judge has already ruled that my arrest was likely unconstitutional I want to hold accountable everyone, literally everyone, who has contributed to my illegal prosecution [and] this administration for also spreading all these lies about me. Free for only a month after a shock arrest in the lobby of his apartment building and 104 days in captivity thousands of miles away from his home in New York, the soft-spoken 30-year-old struggles to describe his feelings. He described joy at being reunited with his wife and son but also a deep sense of duty even as he faces continued risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I went through is literally a drop in the sea of injustices that Palestinians have to face on a daily basis now my arrest accidentally gave me this platform to be able to actually advocate more and more for the rights of Palestinians, Khalil said. I did not choose to be in such a position, but now that such a position is imposed upon me, I will take that responsibility with pride because thats what Palestinians do: just resist and continue resistance until we get our rights. Related... New housing construction in Portland, Maine. (Photo by AnnMarie Hilton/Maine Morning Star) Driven by concerns about increasing housing costs, Maine lawmakers passed several new laws this session to streamline construction. These included measures that cut the red tape on new housing construction, create a fund for affordable housing and bar municipalities from imposing restrictions on where and how much new housing can be built. According to a new report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the fair market rent for a two-bedroom apartment an estimate of the amount that would cover rent and utility expenses on 40% of the rental housing units in an area across Maine is $1,478. In order to afford that without paying more than 30% of income on housing, a household must earn at least $4,927 a month or $59,120 annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means someone who makes the state minimum wage of $14.65 an hour would have to work almost two full time jobs to be able to afford a 2-bedroom rental home at the fair market rent. Most units in Maines population centers are also generally above the fair market value. This report confirms what we hear every day working folks simply cannot keep a roof over their heads without multiple full-time jobs, said Laura Mitchell, executive director of the Maine Affordable Housing Coalition. These numbers reinforce the urgent need for bold policy solutions that cut the red tape so housing is easier to build, and the dire need for funding to build homes that are affordable statewide, Mitchell added. Some of those initiatives were successful this legislative session, Mitchell said. Most of the progress was with bills that cut some of the red tape, easing zoning restrictions and making it easier and more efficient to build affordable housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Studies conducted by MaineHousing, an independent state agency that bridges public and private housing finance, have shown the state needs 80,000 new units of housing, which means we need to increase the number of permits to build by 77%, Mitchell said. Were not there yet at all, but we made some big strides this session. We need to just keep the momentum going, she added. Mitchell and other housing experts highlighted six bills, all of which passed in some form, whether through the Legislature or included in the budget signed by Gov. Janet Mills. All received bipartisan support, said Maine House of Representatives Speaker Ryan Fecteau (D-Biddeford), who introduced and cosponsored several successful bills that will simplify housing construction and generate more funding for affordable housing. We are in a moment where Republicans and Democrats are seeing the issue of housing as one that requires immediate action and is impacting not just southern Maine, but really every corner, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maine has made some of the most substantial progress to tackle the housing crisis in the last five or six years than any other state. Increasing funding through real estate transfer tax A bill Fecteau introduced LD 1082, which eventually got wrapped into the budget will increase the real estate transfer tax on properties that sell for more than a million dollars. That increased revenue, which only applies to the portion of the sale that exceeds one million dollars, will then be allocated to a dedicated fund for affordable housing. Maine has never before had a consistent dedicated funding source for affordable housing, Mitchell said. BJ McCollister, policy director for the affordable housing coalition, called the proposal one of the most transformational pieces of policy related to housing to pass the Legislature in recent years, because it creates a steady, predictable stream of revenue dedicated to the development of affordable housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And thats important, because what developers need in order to move forward on building affordable housing is predictability, he added. Over the past few years, affordable housing construction had been enabled by federal American Rescue Plan Act funds, which for the most part have been expended without replenishment, Fecteau said. So this was critical that we established the source of funding that we dedicate future dollars to the production of housing, because we were on the precipice of losing the momentum that was created a few years ago with the use of federal funds, he said. Removing regulatory barriers LD 1829, another bill Fecteau sponsored, which was ultimately signed into law, makes comprehensive zoning changes to make it easier to build more units on the same lot, and removes some restrictions on the height, density and location of where housing can be built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to make sure that housing is being built in close proximity to services, where there are grocery stores, pharmacies, doctors, he said. We dont want to see Maine become California where theres more and more sprawl. The goal of the newly signed law is to increase smaller developments of two to four units on a lot, or make it easier to build that type of development in order to spur housing production close to existing public infrastructure such as sewer and water systems, for example, so that developers and municipalities dont have to spend millions of dollars to extend those lines out to more rural areas. A more recent development in construction that has added to the increase in housing prices is minimum requirements for lot sizes. These rules have forced new homes to be built on one or two acre lots, which drives up the cost of each unit, Mitchell said. By reducing that requirement, the new law will increase housing density and decrease costs for new homes, she said. The best way to achieve affordable housing is to increase supply, McCollister said. We have a supply and demand issue, and any bill that increases supply, regardless of what type of supply that is, is going to help the whole market. Making it easier to build homes Fecteau, McCollister, and Mitchell also pointed to several other bills that passed this session that will help increase the supply by easing some restrictions on developers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One such example is LD 146, sponsored by Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Androscoggin). The legislation streamlines the Historic Property Rehabilitation Tax Credit, which encourages private sector investment in the rehabilitation and re-use of historic buildings, by removing timeline barriers that have previously slowed down development projects. Previously, a developer could receive a tax credit of up to $5 million in one year, though if a developer was doing a project in a large complex, the annual cap pertains to each building, rather than the entire complex. The new law doubles the tax credit to $10 million over a period of two years. Under the old system, projects were often artificially divided, McCollister said, with developers sometimes literally building walls to divide one project into separate construction phases to be able to utilize the credits.. Fecteau highlighted a new law introduced by Rep. Amy Roeder (D-Bangor), LD 427, that reduces the minimum parking requirements to one space per dwelling unit. Until now, some communities required a parking spot for every bedroom in a unit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats not only unrealistic, its costly, and it likely leads to more space being utilized for parking than is actually being utilized to build homes for people to live in, Fecteau said. Two successful measures from Rep. Marc Malon also create more opportunities for housing: LD 997, which allows residential construction in commercial zones, and LD 970, which opens up existing structures to be rehabilitated for housing. Fecteau used the example of a half-vacant strip mall to explain the benefit of both bills, where businesses and housing could coexist and create walkable areas that benefit each other. As we think about the future of development in our state, and what we want our communities to look like, I think more and more people would say, we want to be a mix of residential and commercial together, he said.Its about bringing new life to, in many cases, existing developments that have, over time, kind of withered on the vine. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Before you brew your next cup of coffee, check the label on your coffee pods. According to a release by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is an active recall of select coffee pods sold in the U.S. New Mexico Pinon Coffee has issued a recall of its Dark Pinon Single Serve Cups due to the potential introduction of ink into the cups during the brewing process. The single-serve cups filled with ground coffee are packaged in a 10-count box with product number F03308, UPC 812361033081, lot code 251749, and a best-by date of 05/08/2026. According to the FDA, the coffee pods are being recalled because the "clear coat seal on the lid of the single serve cups did not get applied consistently to all cups in the production run. This resulted in the food safe ink printing on some cups to run when exposed to high temperature, high-pressure water used in a K-cup machine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, there have been no reports of illness or injury associated with the recall. The FDA recently labeled the recall a Class III, meaning exposure is unlikely to cause "adverse health consequences." However, customers should not use the cups and either throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. New Mexico Pinon Coffee products are sold nationwide at retailers like Target, Walmart, Costco, and Kroger. If you have questions, you can contact New Mexico Pinon Coffee by calling 505-298-1964. Read the original article on Martha Stewart A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version. When the Scandal Isnt the Scandal As scandalous and horrible as Jeffrey Epsteins crime were, thats not whats giving the story legs or Democrats political leverage in this crazy moment. Its the conspiracy-addled MAGA backlash against President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that is undergirding the politics of this. Without that fundamental weak spot, this story probably follows the familiar track of so many other would-be scandals of the Trump era. In fact, it had been following that trajectory for years until MAGAs barking-dog-catches-car epiphany. The madcap events of yesterday showed that the administration is still trying to placate the pressure from the right while protecting Trump from whatever investigative files may contain: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a bizarre and troubling move, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced he is seeking a meeting with imprisoned Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The astounding conceit of Blanches announcement was that he was finally going to get to the bottom of this whole thing, another way of feeding the MAGA conspiracists. Not to get left behind, the House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena Maxwell. Maxwells lawyer, no doubt sensing the opportunity to win leniency for his client, ingratiated her to Trump: We are grateful to President Trump for his commitment to uncovering the truth in this case. Two federal judges in Manhattan ordered the Trump administration to provide much more robust factual and legal bases for unsealing grand jury transcripts from the prosecutions of Epstein and Maxwell. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) kept the Democratic pressure on with a letter to Bondi urging her to explore the financial angle to Epsteins criminal conduct. Wydens office tells Greg Sargent that the senator attempted to investigate this angle last year via subpoena but was stymied by Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee. You can see the trolling here to feed the MAGA fire: more Epstein coverups! An agitated President Trump blamed anyone and everyone else, trying to pivot to false claims that Democrats engaged in a treasonous coup in 2016, when he WON: The Biggest News of the Whole Year As it promised back in March, the Trump EPA is poised to overturn the agencys own 2009 endangerment finding that gave it legal justification to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. As Lisa Friedman writes: That finding is the foundation of the federal governments only tool to limit the climate pollution from vehicles, power plants and other industries that is dangerously heating the planet. Bondi Fires Judges Replacement for Alina Habba WASHINGTON, DC MARCH 28: U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi (L) swears in Alina Habba as interim U.S Attorney For New Jersey as Habbas husband Gregg Reuben (R) holds a copy of the Bible in the Oval Office at the White House on March 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trumps former personal attorney, Habba currently serves as a White House presidential counselor. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Attorney General Pam Bondi immediately canned the career federal prosecutor New Jersey federal judges had named U.S. attorney to succeed Alina Habba when her 120-day interim term ended. In explosive language, Bondi ripped the rogue judges, even though the chief judge was a Bush II appointee and the practice of judges naming U.S. attorney replacements is enshrined in the law. Bondi deputy Todd Blanche went farther, accusing the judges of backroom collusion and pursuing a left-wing agenda. Habbas nomination for the permanent position is stalled in the Senate. Its not clear what the White Houses next move will be to fill the position. The interplay of various laws that govern filling the U.S. attorney position is exceedingly complicated. If youre wanting the full explanation, the leading expert on vacancies weighs in here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Desiree Leigh Grace was the first assistant U.S. attorney under Habba before the judges elevated her to the top spot. She wasnt just removed as U.S. attorney by Bondi but fired from the Justice Department entirely, Politico reports. AEA Detainees at CECOT Recount Beatings Three of the Venezuelan nationals deported by the Trump administration to CECOT and now repatriated to their home country are describing beatings, lack of medical attention, and other mistreatment while in the notorious Salvadoran detention center. Wrongfully Deported Cristian Pushes for Contempt Finding In a hearing Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher of Maryland, lawyers for Venezuelan national Cristian who was wrongfully deported under the Alien Enemies Act in violation of a pre-existing settlement agreement said they will ask her to open criminal contempt proceedings against the Trump administration for its conduct in the case. Trump Attack on Higher Ed: George Mason Edition The Trump administration has launched its fourth investigation of George Mason University in the last month over its DEI practices. The focus on GMU comes while it is led by its first Black president and follows the ouster of the superintendent of VMI, who was also Black, and the president of UVa. Sign of the Times The publisher of the Harvard Educational Review has spiked an issue on Palestine, the Guardian reports. Still Awaiting a Verdict The Guardians Alice Speri offers these takeaways from the just-concluded trial challenging the Trump administrations targeting of pro-Palestinian international students for their political views: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration relied on lists from shadowy pro-Israel groups Immigration officials admitted to the unprecedented nature of the arrests The government tried to block the release of documents A huge chilling effect Quiet Capitulation To comply with President Trumps anti-trans executive order, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee quietly banned transgender women from competing in Olympic womens sports, tucking a vaguely worded paragraph that doesnt include the word transgender into its Athlete Safety Policy, the NYT reports. Under pressure from the Trump administration, blue state hospitals are cutting back on gender-affirming care for transgender minors: Childrens National Hospital in D.C. is discontinuing the prescription of transition medications; The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center will no longer provide puberty blockers and hormone therapy for those under the age of 19; UChicago Medicine is ending all pediatric transition care; Childrens Hospital Los Angeles closed its Center for Transyouth Health and Development; Stanford Medicine in the Bay Area paused surgical procedures, including new puberty blocker implants, for under-19 patients. Rationalizing Capitulation David Pressman, the U.S. ambassador to Hungary from 2022-25, writes that the key similarity between Hungary and the United States isnt Orban and Trump but how elites have responded to the authoritarian threat: After years watching Hungary suffocate under the weight of its democratic collapse, I came to understand that the real danger of a strongman isnt his tactics; its how others, especially those with power, justify their acquiescence. Here, too, powerful people are responding to authoritarian advances just as their Hungarian counterparts have not with defiance, but with capitulation, convinced that they can maintain their independence and stay above the fray. Quote of the Day We keep talking about an imperial court that is slowly but certainly constructing an imperial executive, but none of that can happen without the learned helplessness of an American public that was intended to be sovereign. Dahlia Lithwick, on the Supreme Court and the unitary executive Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know! (NewsNation) Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned Sunday after he was caught in a rip current at a Costa Rica beach. Warner was helped by the people who were already at Playa Cocles, but was declared without vital signs by personnel from the Costa Rican Red Cross, according to Costa Rican officials. What you need to know about rip currents Surf beach lifeguards rescue approximately 80% of people a year because of rip currents, according to the United States Lifesaving Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rip currents are channelized currents of water that flow away from shore at surf beaches, according to the USLA. They can vary in size, from very narrow to over 50 yards wide, and can form at breaks in sandbars or near jetties and piers. PHOTOS: Remembering heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, dead at 76 The current pulls people away from the shore, rather than pulling them underwater, the USLA says. Dont swim against a rip current According to the USLA, its important to relax if youre ever caught in a current and not swim against it, as its possible to escape from one if you swim in a direction following the shoreline, or toward breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USLA advises beachgoers to swim in an area where there are a lot of lifeguards and to consult them before entering the water. More than 100 rip current deaths occur every year in the U.S., according to the Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences. Warner was on a family vacation at the time of his death. He was 54. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A man has been arrested after a hit-and-run crash near Bayou Road on July 21, according to Iberville Parish Sheriff Brett Stassi. Deputies responded to the scene after receiving reports of a vehicle crashing into a utility pole. When they arrived, they found a white SUV believed to be involved, but no one was inside the vehicle. After investigating, authorities identified Cotty Reid, 38, of Pitkin, La., as the driver. Reid was arrested and booked into the Iberville Parish Jail. Cotty Reid Police identify pair killed in overnight crash on Highland Road Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is facing multiple charges, including: Hit and run. Driving under suspension. Switched license plates. No proof of insurance. The investigation is 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 man accused of pulling the trigger in a Christmas Day shooting that killed two Milwaukee teenagers is no longer on the run. Jeremiah Taylor, 18, was arrested by the South Milwaukee Police Department on July 22. He is charged with two counts of first-degree reckless homicide as a party to a crime in the teens' shooting deaths. An arrest warrant was issued for Taylor in January in connection with the Dec. 25, 2024, killings of Nayah Vasquez and Exziel Rivera as they sat in a car outside a home near South 37th and West Scott streets. Car debris is seen at the scene the day after 18-year-old Nayah Vasquez and 15-year-old Xziel Rivera were fatally shot on Christmas Day on South 37th Street in Milwaukee, Wis. What happened on Christmas Day to Nayah and Exziel? According to a criminal complaint, surveillance cameras in the neighborhood recorded footage of a white Kia parking near the intersection on Christmas morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At some point, a black Malibu traveling on Scott crossed the intersection and a male leaned out of the front passenger window. That person fired a gun multiple times at the Kia before speeding off. Neighbors came out to help the dying victims after hearing gunshots. Exziel, 15, died at the scene. Nayah, 18, was taken to a hospital, but she died there from her injuries. In Wisconsin, first-degree intentional homicide is a Class B felony that carries a maximum sentence of up to 60 years in prison. A candle memorial for 18-year-old Nayah Vasquez and 15-year-old Xziel Rivera, who were fatally shot on Christmas Day, car debris is still seen on the scene on S 37th st on Thursday December 26, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis. What happened to the other man charged in the case? Prosecutors also charged Quintarez Morris, 18, in the shooting. A judge sentenced him to five years in prison and five years of extended supervision afterwards. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Man accused of killing 2 Milwaukee teens Christmas Day nabbed after 8 months on the run ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) A man accused of a murder outside of a Blakes restaurant in Albuquerque will be held behind bars through his trial. Albuquerque officials discuss moving historic diner to Route 66 Visitor Center Christian Elycio, 21, is accused of shooting Edward Nicholas, 46, after the two got into a fight. Witnesses told police the two men separated after an initial dispute. A manager at the restaurant told Nicholas to leave the property. Police state that surveillance video showed Nicholas begin to walk away when Elycio approached and fired several gunshots, leading Nicholas to fall to the ground. Elycio allegedly ran up and fired more rounds at him. An autopsy says Nicholas was shot ten times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Bruce Fox granted the states motion for pretrial detention based on the violent nature of the crime. Elycio will be held behind bars through his trial. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NILES TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) A man has been charged with murder after a woman was found shot dead near Niles, deputies say. Rene Alvarado, 33, has been charged with open murder and weapons charges, according to the Berrien County Sheriffs Office. He is being held on a $2 million bond and must wear a GPS tether, deputies say. Domestic violence prevention advocate: Reach out The charges stem from Monday, when deputies were sent to mobile home community Franklin Woods on 13th Street in Niles Township to find Courtney Hershberger, 29, shot dead inside a home. Deputies called her death suspicious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alvarado, who is from Indiana, was arrested later. Its not clear what led up Hershbergers death but deputies said the two were involved in a relationship. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Nestle, Hershey, Mars are among cocoa importers to have defeated an attempt to revive allegations they benefited from child slavery on cocoa farms in Cote dIvoire. The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejected the proposed class action lawsuit from eight plaintiffs, each a citizen of Mali, who sought to blame Hershey, Nestle, Mars, Mondelez International and three other companies for human trafficking. According to the plaintiffs, they were forced to work as children on farms after being promised well-paying jobs in remote areas of the west African country. They also allege that it was months or years before they were able to return home. However, the appeals court found there was no link between the plaintiffs' forced labour and the importers. US Circuit Judge Justin Walker wrote the plaintiffs in this case deserve the greatest sympathy and the people who took away their childhoods deserve the greatest condemnation. But the plaintiffs did not plausibly allege a connection between those people and the importers. The plaintiffs, therefore, lack standing to sue the importers. Walker also wrote: "Is there a 'possibility' that at least some of the importers sourced cocoa from those farms? Yes, but is it 'plausible'? Not on this complaint. As a result, the court concluded the plaintiffs did not connect the defendants to any specific cocoa plantations, as they made no mention of which specific plantations they worked on as children. A lawyer representing the plaintiffs, Terry Collingsworth, said his clients were "extremely disappointed" and are "considering their legal options. According to Reuters, the lawyer said the court rewarded the chocolate multinational defendants ... for concealing their cocoa supply chains, such that former child slaves are unable to link a specific company to the Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) farms where they were enslaved. "US court dismisses child-labour claims against cocoa importers" was originally created and published by Just Food, a GlobalData owned brand. MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX) A man accused of stealing a boat to take a nude joyride in the Hudson River escaped from a Manhattan hospital disguised as a doctor, according to police and sources. Stephen Blasetti, 36, was in police custody while being treated at New York-Presbyterian Columbia University Irving Medical Center on 168th Street. Sources said he slipped cops while dressed in scrubs and left the hospital at around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blasetti was in police custody for allegedly stealing a boat from the Dyckman Marina in Manhattan on Saturday. Workers told police Blasetti got on the unoccupied boat and sailed off into the Hudson River in the nude, authorities said. Blasetti then boarded a second unoccupied boat in the river before he was arrested by the NYPD Harbor Unit. He was charged with grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, and reckless endangerment, cops said. More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State Blasetti had been in the hospital since Saturday for an evaluation before escaping Wednesday morning. He has not been apprehended as of Thursday morning, police said. Advertisement 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). Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. 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. SUNNYSIDE, Queens (PIX11) Police are searching for a man accused of robbing $34 from a Capital One Bank in Queens on July 17. The incident happened around 3:28 p.m. at the Capital One Bank at 40-20 Queens Boulevard. More Local News Police say the suspect entered the bank and passed a note to the teller, demanding money. The teller gave the individual $37, and he left, heading east on Queens Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect is described as a man around 511 and 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt, dark-colored pants, brown shoes, and sunglasses. The NYPD released the following photos of the man. No one was injured during the incident. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Advertisement 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. A Long Island man was arrested last month and charged in connection with attempting to blow up several homemade explosives around Manhattan, federal prosecutors announced this week. Authorities said Michael Gann was taken into custody after he had allegedly already placed one of the explosives on a subway track on the Williamsburg Bridge on June 5, 2025. According to the Justice Department, the 55-year-old man had placed the explosive on the tracks before placing five more explosive devices and a handful of shotgun shells on the rooftop of a residential building in the SoHo neighborhood. Its unclear how law enforcement became aware of Ganns alleged activity on June 5. A federal indictment included in the news release showed at least one security camera image of Gann holding a bag and appearing to walk on the rooftop where authorities allege he placed five of the explosives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About a month earlier, in May, the Justice Department alleges that Gann ordered about two pounds of potassium perchlorate and another pound of aluminum powder, along with more than 200 cardboard tubes and 50 feet worth of fuses. Using these items, Gann allegedly created at least seven explosive devices. The Justice Department alleges that in one of the devices Gann created, there was approximately 30 grams of explosive powder approximately 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks. When Gann was arrested, officers found a seventh explosive device on his person. He allegedly then falsely told police officers he had thrown the rest of the explosive devices away in a dumpster elsewhere in Manhattan. The suspects internet history over the two months leading up to his arrest included at least a dozen searches about procuring a gun or the ingredients to make explosive devices, according to federal authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities also allege that on the morning before he tossed the first explosive on the New York City subway track, Gann took to Instagram and cryptically wrote: Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow? 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. Gann has been charged with one count of attempted destruction of property with an explosive, which carries a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum of 20. He was also charged with transporting explosive materials, which carries a maximum of 10 years in prison, as well as a charge for unlawful possession of destructive devices, which also carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The safety of New Yorkers is paramount, U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said in a statement, crediting swift work by law enforcement to stop Gann before he could cause any damage. PEOPLE reached out to an attorney who is representing Gann but did not immediately receive a response on Wednesday. Read the original article on People EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 24-year-old man has been arrested and is facing a charge of illegally dumping trash at an East El Paso shopping Center, the El Paso Constables Office for Precinct 4 said. Oscar Fernando Chavez, 24, of El Paso, was arrested and was booked into the El Paso County Detention Center under a $1,500 bond, the Constables Office said. On Sunday, July 20, an off-duty deputy from the El Paso County Constables Office for Precinct 4 saw a vehicle parked alongside an open trash container at a shopping center at 1840 N. Lee Trevino. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy observed a suspicious man get items from the trunk and put them in the trash container. The deputy documented the suspicious activity and wrote down the vehicles registration. The next day, the deputy went back to the shopping center and did a follow-up. The property manager confirmed that the man was not an employee and did not have authorization to dispose of items in the trash bin, the Constables Office said. Upon further investigation, it was determined the man had disposed of bags of clothing, sheet rock material and other building materials, the Constables Office said. The suspect was identified as Chavez and arrested. Advertisement 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 KTSM 9 News. NEW YORK (AP) A New York man accused of plotting to set off homemade explosives he had stashed at sites across Manhattan has been indicted, federal prosecutors said. Michael Gann, 55, built at least seven improvised explosive devices last month with chemicals he bought online in May and took the bombs to Manhattan, according to an indictment handed up Tuesday by a grand jury. Gann, of Long Island, stored some on the devices on the rooftops of adjoining residential buildings and threw another onto the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one was injured by any of the devices. Gann was arrested in early June near the buildings, and authorities said he he had one of the devices in his possession. Gann put countless lives at risk, Jay Clayton, the interim U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a statement. Gann is charged with attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, transportation of explosive materials, and unlawful possession of destructive devices. He could face up to 40 years in prison if convicted on all counts. A judge ordered Gann detained following a bail hearing. His lawyer, Martin Cohen, declined comment Wednesday. ___ This story has been corrected to show that Gann is from Long Island, New York, not New York City. Wisconsin State Rep. Priscilla Prado described a "deeply unsettling experience" when a shirtless man allegedly attempted to open her front door several times late Monday night, according to her office and Wisconsin State Capitol Police. Officials said they were investigating whether Prado was targeted. The lawmaker's doorbell camera outside of her home captured the incident and Wisconsin State Police released screenshots of the suspect in hopes of identifying him. MORE: Black bear killed in Yellowstone after learning how to obtain human food Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This incident comes a month after the targeted attacks in Minnesota, where lawmakers Melissa Hortman, John Hoffman and both their spouses were shot in their homes. Wisconsin State Capitol police said this is an ongoing investigation. MORE: Unidentified body discovered floating in the Atlantic off New Hampshire coast Wisconsin State Capitol Police Department - PHOTO: Wisconsin State Rep. Priscilla Prado described a "deeply unsettling experience" when a shirtless man allegedly attempted to open her front door several times late Monday night, according to her office and Wisconsin State Capitol Police. MORE: New York shuts down hiking trail in Adirondack Mountains due to moose engaging in 'unusual behaviors' Prado, a Democratic lawmaker from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, released a statement Tuesday afternoon saying "this has been a deeply unsettling experience, and I appreciate the influx of concern. I respectfully ask for privacy and patience as law enforcement continues its work." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities described the suspect as a white male in his late 40s to early 50s, approximately 6 feet tall, 200 pounds with shoulder length blond hair. MORE: Plane crash kills 1 and injures 2 in remote area of Olympic National Park The subject did not end up gaining entry into the residence but could be seen walking around Prados property for a period of time, though police did not confirm how long he was there for. The investigation into the incident is currently active and ongoing. By Steve Gorman LOS ANGELES (Reuters) -A man accused of deliberately driving his car into a crowd of pedestrians outside a Los Angeles nightclub over the weekend, injuring dozens of people, some critically, was charged on Tuesday with 37 counts of attempted murder, prosecutors said. The suspect, Fernando Ramirez, 29, a resident of San Clemente, also was charged with 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon, according to a statement from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If convicted, he would face multiple sentences of life in prison, the statement said. Ramirez, currently being held without bail, was to be arraigned on Wednesday. Authorities have offered no possible motive for the car-ramming, which remains under investigation. According to the Los Angeles district attorney, Ramirez also has a case of domestic violence pending against him in Orange County. The incident occurred at about 2 a.m. on Saturday, when a motorist suddenly, and intentionally, drove into a sidewalk outside Vermont Hollywood, a popular live music venue on the eastern edge of Hollywood, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 37 people were hurt, with injuries ranging from minor abrasions to serious fractures and lacerations, prosecutors said. The criminal complaint alleges that Ramirez inflicted great bodily injury to eight of the victims. Police said officers dispatched to the scene found that the driver had been shot while being assaulted by onlookers and was himself taken to a hospital, his condition unknown. A man suspected of shooting the motorist fled the scene on foot, according to police. (Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Leslie Adler) A man accused of intentionally plowing his car through a crowd in Los Angeles over the weekend has been charged with 37 counts of attempted murder, officials announced Tuesday. The suspect -- 29-year-old Fernando Ramirez -- has also been charged with 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon, "the deadly weapon being the car," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said during a press briefing announcing the filing of the charges. MORE: At least 30 injured after car plows into crowd outside music venue in Los Angeles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The counts correspond to the 37 victims in the incident, which unfolded around 2 a.m. local time Saturday outside the music venue The Vermont in East Hollywood, Hochman said. Among the victims, eight suffered "great bodily injury," such as serious fractures and lacerations, the district attorney said. Damian Dovarganes/AP - PHOTO: A vehicle sits on the sidewalk after ramming into a crowd of people waiting to enter a nightclub along a busy boulevard in Los Angeles early Saturday, July 19, 2025, injuring several people. "We understand that this brazen act has shaken the community," Hochman said during the press briefing. "As alleged, and we will prove in a court of law, when he drove that car onto that sidewalk, he aimed it at a whole sea of pedestrians that were in front of him on the sidewalk at 2 a.m. Many of them were at the taco truck, or they were waiting at the valet, or they were waiting to get into the club." Over the weekend, senior investigators told ABC News the crash occurred after the suspect had been removed from the nightclub. He then intentionally drove his vehicle onto a sidewalk and into the crowd gathered outside the club, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Tuesday's briefing, Los Angeles Fire Department Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva described the scene as "incredibly chaotic and distressing." "It's truly a miracle no one was killed," Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell said. MORE: 'American Idol' music supervisor and husband killed with their own gun: DA When the vehicle became disabled, bystanders in the crowd dragged the driver outside the car and began to physically assault him, according to police. At some point during the altercation, police said a man shot the driver once in the lower back then fled the scene on foot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being treated at a hospital, Ramirez was initially booked into jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, police said. He is currently being held without bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday, Hochman said. If convicted as charged, the suspect faces multiple sentences of life in state prison. Damian Dovarganes/AP - PHOTO: Law enforcement investigate the scene where a vehicle rammed into a crowd of people waiting to enter a nightclub along a busy boulevard in Los Angeles early Saturday, July 19, 2025, injuring several people. Ramirez has an "extensive history of violence," McDonnell said. At the time of the incident, he was out on bail in connection with a 2022 domestic violence case in Orange County, according to Hochman, who declined further comment on the matter at this time. The unidentified person who shot the driver remains at large, police said Tuesday. "We understand the emotions involved, but when the threat had ended and the suspect was no longer actively harming others, the use of deadly force was both unlawful and dangerous to everybody present," McDonnell said. "Our detectives are working diligently to identify and apprehend the shooter." By Rishika Sadam and Sai Ishwarbharath B HYDERABAD/BENGALURU (Reuters) -U.S. retailer Costco Wholesale Corp will open its first technology centre in India in Hyderabad, two people familiar with the plans told Reuters. The Global Capability Centre, handling technology and research operations and working alongside global teams, will initially employ 1,000 people and scale up, sources said. GCCs, which were once low-cost outsourcing hubs for global firms, have evolved over the last few years and are now used to support their parent organisations in multiple functions, including daily operations, finance, and research and development. India is already home to some of the global marquee brands--having their GCC operations in India. This includes companies such as JPMorgan Chase, Walmartand Target in Bengaluru while Hyderabad also hosts companies such as McDonald's, Heineken and Vanguard Group. The market size of India's global capability centres (GCCs) is likely to grow to $99 billion-$105 billion by 2030 from $64.6 billion in fiscal 2024, according to a report by IT industry body Nasscom and consulting firm Zinnov released late last year. Costco did not immediately respond to Reuters request for a comment. (Reporting by Rishika Sadam and Sai Ishwarbharath BEditing by Tomasz Janowski and Chizu Nomiyama ) CHICAGO (WGN) A man has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after shooting and injuring an 8-year-old girl last month. Chicago police said 23-year-old Kenneth Williams was arrested on Monday, July 21 in the 2600 block of South California Avenue in Marshall Square. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 8-year-old girl injured after gunman opens fire on car during argument on South Side Detectives identified him as the suspect who shot and injured an 8-year-old girl on Tuesday, June 24 in the 3000 block of South State Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chicago police said the gunfire erupted just before 10 p.m. on June 24, after an argument broke out between the childs family and the people inside a white SUV in the 3000 block of South State Street in Douglas. The girl was in a vehicle with family members when they got into an argument with those inside the SUV, according to investigators. It is unclear if the vehicles were moving or parked at the time of the incident. During the argument, a man inside the white SUV, now identified as Williams, allegedly threatened to shoot at the vehicle the girl was inside of. Officers said he then allegedly fired two gunshots at the car, striking the girl in her leg. Williams has been charged with one count of attempted first-degree murder and one count of aggravated batter/discharge of a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines He has a detention hearing scheduled for Wednesday, July 23. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Man charged in crash on Route 9 in Berlin that killed state police chaplain The video above is from a September 2024 newscast. NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTNH) A New Britain man was arrested for allegedly causing a crash that killed a 66-year-old chaplain from Cromwell in September 2024 on Route 9 in Berlin. Gabriel Figueroa, 25, was charged with negligent homicide with a motor vehicle, evading responsibility and failure to maintain a proper lane in the death of Paul Krampitz. Chaplain dies in crash on Route 9 in Berlin Chaplain Paul Krampitz The crash happened in September 2024. State police said that Krampitz was on a motorcycle in the left lane of the highway when a Chevrolet Impala driven by Figueroa hit him, throwing him from the motorcycle. Krampitz was pronounced dead at the hospital. Gabriel Figueroa Figueroa initially left the scene, according to state police, but later returned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State police said Krampitz was assigned to Troop L (Litchfield), H (Hartford), and DESPP Headquarters in Middletown. He was also the chaplain for the Cromwell Fire Department. Figuerora turned himself in to state police Wednesday morning. He was held on a $100,000 court-set bond and was due in court Wednesday morning in New Britain. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LIBERTY, Ohio (WKBN) A Youngstown man is facing charges following a reported robbery at a store in Liberty. Leroy Hammonds, 26, is charged in Girard Municipal Court with robbery and assault. According to a police report, Hammonds entered the Red Eye Smoke Shop on Saturday just before 1 p.m. and argued with the owner about a deal he wanted on a purchase. When Hammonds was asked to leave, the owner told police that Hammonds punched a display of lighters, breaking the display, the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hammonds then went to the rear of the store, and the owner followed. It was then that the owner said that Hammonds told him, I got something for you, and reached into a bag. The owner believed that Hammonds may have a weapon, so he pulled his gun on Hammonds and backed into the store, leaving Hammonds outside, the report stated. Hammonds then entered the front of the store again and attacked the owner, grabbing him by the neck while an employee helped wrench Hammonds off the owner and pushed him out of the store, according to the police report. Hammonds entered the store again and started picking up merchandise that had been scattered across the floor during the altercations in an attempt to steal it, the report stated, when the owner, the employee and a customer were able to grab Hammonds and throw him out of the store. Several glass display cases and shelves were broken in the altercations, the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hammonds left the area, but police were able to identify him. A warrant has 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 WKBN.com. A man has been arrested and charged with murder in Michigan after a call for help suddenly cut off, police said. The incident occurred on Saturday morning around 6:45 a.m. when police in Shelby Township, near Detroit, received a 911 call from a man who immediately hung up the phone, according to a statement from police. MORE: Man captured on surveillance camera attempting to enter Wisconsin lawmaker's home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were then sent to the apartment to check on the welfare of the occupants, police said. Upon arrival, officers were met at the door by Terrance Lamar Bowie, a 29-year-old male from Casco, Michigan, authorities said. Bowie made statements to officers indicating that there was a dead body located inside of the apartment. MORE: Black bear killed in Yellowstone after learning how to obtain human food Officers then found the body a 27-year old woman in a bedroom. She has not been identified. Evidence gathered from the scene indicates that this was a homicide, and the suspect, Terrance Lamar Bowie, was placed under arrest, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Unidentified body discovered floating in the Atlantic off New Hampshire coast Facebook / Shelby Township Police Department - PHOTO: A man has been arrested and charged with murder when a woman was found dead after police followed up on a 911 call that was hung up in the middle of a request for help. MORE: New York shuts down hiking trail in Adirondack Mountains due to moose engaging in 'unusual behaviors' Authorities confirmed that this was not a random act of violence, as the victim and Bowie were both known to each other. Bowie was arraigned on Tuesday in district court and charged with second degree murder and scene tampering. His bond was set at $2 million by Judge Stephen Sierawski. MORE: Plane crash kills 1 and injures 2 in remote area of Olympic National Park Bowie's next court appearance will be in August, officials said. Think twice before committing a crime in Shelby Township. Our team is committed to the safety and security of our residents and business owners, said Police Chief Robert J. Shelide. However, if you commit a violent crime in Shelby Township, we will leave no stone unturned and pursue you until you are brought to justice. FAIRHAVEN, Mass. (WPRI) An Acushnet man has died after being pulled from the water in Fairhaven Tuesday evening, according to authorities. First responders were called to the Seaview Avenue boat ramp off Sconticut Neck Road around 5 p.m. for reports of a possible drowning. Michael McDevitt told 12 News he has a summer home near the boat ramp and was walking toward the beach when he heard the commotion. He didnt think twice about jumping into the water to try and save the man. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one else was going in, so I just thought, Someone needs help, so let me try to go help,' he recalled. It was just a natural reaction. McDevitt was able to swim out to the man and bring him to shore with the assistance of other bystanders. He showed some signs of breathing, but his eyes were closed and he wasnt really alert, McDevitt said. McDevitt wasted no time and began performing CPR on Silveira until the first responders got there. The man, later identified by the Bristol County District Attorneys Office as 77-year-old Wayne Silveira, was rushed to St. Lukes Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im praying for the mans family, McDevitt said. Silveiras death does not appear to be suspicious at this time. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: 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. JONES COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) A man who was hospitalized after being trapped underneath a vehicle in Jones County has died. Jones County Sheriff Joe Berlin said Gary Woodman, 59, was trapped under a vehicle that he was working on, following the failure of a vehicle jack on July 19. The incident happened on Summerland Road in the Hebron community. Former Petal teacher arrested again on sex crime charges Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When authorities arrived, they found the vehicle was crushing Woodman, and he was not breathing. Hebron Fire & Rescue deployed a battery powered rescue spreader and lifted the vehicle off of the victim. Emergency services personnel performed CPR on Woodman, and firefighters established a landing zone for Rescue 7 Air Ambulance. Authorities said Woodman was transported by EMServ to South Central Regional Medical Center (SCRMC) in Laurel. They said he was medically stabilized by Saturday night and was transported by ambulance to Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg. A man who was hospitalized after being trapped underneath a vehicle in Jones County has died. (Courtesy: Calhoun Fire & Rescue) Woodman later died on July 20 due to the injuries he sustained in the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We pray for the family and friends of Gary Woodman during this time of unimaginable loss, said Berlin. It is our hope that God grants comfort and a peace beyond understanding in the difficult days ahead to Gary Woodmans family and friends. Plus, to the first responders who gave it their all in the rescue effort. 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. ***Watch previous coverage in the video above*** ELYRIA, Ohio (WJW) A man has been found guilty of killing another man at an Elyria apartment complex in 2022, according to the Elyria Police Department. On Tuesday, a jury found Henry Spooner IV guilty of multiple charges, including murder, felonious assault, and improperly handling a firearm. Henry C. Spooner (Elyria Police Department) Elyria police officers responded to a shooting at Midview Crossings Apartments on Middle Avenue on Oct. 27, 2022, as FOX 8 previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video: Crowds take over Cleveland streets, blocking RTA bus over July 4 weekend When they got there, officers found the victim, 24-year-old Jordan Flanigan, lying in the grass with a gunshot wound. Paramedics started life-saving measures, but Flanigan was pronounced dead less than 10 minutes later. At the same time, Spooner, suffering from gunshot wounds, showed up at University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center. Investigators at the time believed the shootings were connected. Through the investigation, police detectives identified Spooner as the suspect in Flanigans murder. The 21-year-old was arrested by Westlake police in February 2023 and was booked into the Lorain County jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 teens killed in weekend Cleveland crash identified Spooners jury trial began on July 15, 2025, and he was found guilty one week later. This tragic and senseless act of violence has had a lasting impact on the lives of those affected, said Elyria Police Chief James Welsh in a release. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our officers, detectives and the Lorain County Prosecutors Office, justice has been served. We remain steadfast in our commitment to hold violent offenders accountable and to protect the safety of Elyria residents. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 County grand jury returned an indictment in a gross sexual imposition case. Matthew Velez, 37, of Warren, faces the charge, a third-degree felony. The charge against Velez stems from an incident reported to Warren police on June 4. According to a police report, a 12-year-old girl reported that Velez touched her arms and rubbed her arm with his hand. She said he then made the comment that she was so beautiful as he slid his hand down her arm and then grabbed her buttocks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report stated that Velez was a friend of a family member. Police said Velez was highly intoxicated when they arrived. Velez is scheduled to appear in court for an arraignment on July 30. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) A man was indicted for a Hearne Avenue homicide by a Caddo Parish Grand Jury on Tuesday. The Caddo Parish District Attorneys Office announced that Jermaine Lavar Curtis, 44, was charged with second-degree murder for the March 1, 2025, slaying of Fabian Jenkins, 43. The shooting happened in the 6300 block of Hearne Avenue in the parking lot of a sandwich shop. Jenkins was shot in the neck and transported to a hospital for treatment, but was transferred to PAM Health Specialty Hospital to recover, and died of his injuries on April 23, 2025. On April 25, 2025, the Shreveport Police Department announced that the charges that Curtis was facing would be upgraded from attempted murder due to Jenkins death. Additionally, Curtis will be tried for being a felon in possession of a firearm because a prior conviction prevented him from possessing a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Curtis remains in the Caddo Correctional Center, where he awaits trial. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. The owner of Vauxhall has slumped to a 2.3bn (2bn) loss after cancelling an expensive bet on hydrogen-powered vehicles and electric cars. Stellantis, which also owns Fiat and Peugeot, said scrapping plans for a fleet of hydrogen-powered vans as well as soaring restructuring costs and the impact of Donald Trumps trade war would push it into the red for the first half of 2025. In results on Monday, it reported a 3.3bn hit to costs because of the cancelled hydrogen plan as well as plans to divert spending from electric to hybrid vehicles. The move comes after Mr Trump removed emissions-linked penalties for carmakers across the US. Stellantis had planned to launch a range of hydrogen vans this year under its Pro One division, which were poised to be built in France and Poland. However the plans were ditched after being deemed too niche and expensive. The companys European operating chief, Jean-Philippe Imparato, said last week the hydrogen market had no prospects of mid-term economic stability. The company is also reviewing its position in Symbio, a hydrogen fuel cell company in which it owns a 33pc stake. Stellantis is chaired by John Elkann, the grandson of Fiat scion Gianni Agnelli. The loss marks the first move by new chief executive Antonio Filosa, who Mr Elkann chose to replace former boss Carlos Tavares earlier this year. Trade war fallout Mr Trumps tariff blitz, which hit global carmakers with a 25pc rate, has sparked chaos around the world. The US is the worlds largest importer of vehicles and Stellantis was forced to pause production at plants in Canada and Mexico as Mr Trump unleashed his trade war. Sales of cars in North America, its biggest market, are expected to drop by 25pc in the second quarter after Mr Trump began imposing tariffs on global trading partners. Stellantis cancelled a range of hydrogen vans this year under its Pro One division - Stellantis It warned that the early effects of US tariffs would cost it around 300m. Stellantis suspended its financial guidance in April due to uncertainty caused by the trade war. Total revenues at the firm, which also owns Citroen and Jeep, were down 12.6pc to 74.3 over the first half of 2025. Shares in Stellantis fell by more than 3pc as markets opened on Monday. European sales falter as Chinese rivals surge Stellantis was also hit by a 6pc slump in volumes in Europe, where EV makers have found themselves battling an influx of cheaper Chinese brands such as BYD. The company has been battling to reverse its fortunes after Mr Tavares department. Though widely credited with turning the carmakers fortunes around in the latter years of the last decade and overseeing a mega-merger with Fiat Chrysler in 2019, Mr Tavares departure came after the company was hit by a drastic fall in earnings, with critics alleging a lack of innovative new products, high prices and quality issues. DES MOINES, Iowa Police are investigating after a man was shot early Wednesday morning in Des Moines Grays Lake neighborhood. Sgt. Paul Parizek, Public Information Officer of the Des Moines Police Department, said an adult male showed up at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg. His injuries were non-life-threatening. Des Moines man charged in shooting that killed his step-grandson, DMPD says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators were able to determine the shooting happened around 12:20 a.m. in the 1100 block of Davis Avenue. The suspects in the case are currently unknown, and the investigation into the shooting continues. Metro 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. [Watch in the player above: What to do if you witness a crash] AKRON, Ohio (WJW) A 20-year-old man died after the motorcycle he was riding struck a car on Tuesday evening. Akron police officers responded just after 5 p.m. to the crash in the intersection of Brown Street and Stanton Avenue, according to a Wednesday news release. Rare mosquito-borne virus confirmed in Northeast Ohio The motorcycle was headed north on Brown Street, while the car was headed east on Stanton Avenue, according to the release. The motorcycle struck the car as it was passing through the intersection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. His identity has not been released. The Akron Police Department would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of this young man during this incredibly difficult time, Akron police Lt. Michael Murphy is quoted in the release. Two rescued after construction barge overturns on Lake Erie The police departments Accident Reconstruction Unit is continuing to investigate. Anyone who can offer information on the investigation is urged to call Akron detectives at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2TIP (330-375-2847). Anonymous tips can also be provided by: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calling Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS (330-434-2677) Texting TIPSCO with your tip to 274637 Downloading the Akron Police Department app and texting Tips411 or visiting the police departments 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. RUTHERFORD COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) The Rutherford County Sheriffs Office said one man pled guilty to distributing narcotics that resulted in the death of one man in Rutherford County. On May 27 2024, deputies were called out to a residence on Highland Avenue regarding a possible overdose. Upon arrival, deputies found the victim, Johnathon Pruitt, dead in the home. An investigation began into Pruitts death, leading deputies to 63-year-old Kenneth Ray Melton of Mooresboro as a potential suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On March 24 2025, deputies began investigating a residence at Harris Henrietta Road due to multiple narcotics complaints. Melton was also said to have been seen leaving the residence on foot. Deputies said they searched Meltons person, and found multiple baggies of Fentanyl. Melton was arrested and charged with possession with intent to manufacture sell and/or deliver a scheduled 2 controlled substance, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. On March 27, Melton was charged with one count of death by distribution and one count of second degree murder. Melton pleaded guilty to the charged on July 17. Melton was sentenced a maximum of ten years at the Department of Adult Corrections. Advertisement 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. HINDS COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) A man pled guilty in connection to a fatal shooting that was sparked by a dispute over $5.00. Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens said Jaquantus McGee pled guilty to second-degree murder in the death of Wendell Knowles, 31, outside of Jackson gas station in 2022. Former Petal teacher arrested again on sex crime charges The shooting occurred on April 1, 2022, on Englewood Street. Police said McGee approached Knowles and asked him about $5.00. Before Knowles could respond, police said McGee pulled out a gun and shot the victim. Jaquantus McGee (Courtesy: Hinds Co. Detention Center) McGee was sentenced to 34 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) with 12 years suspended. Advertisement 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. The man who was the subject of a violent arrest in a viral video is speaking out about the disturbing incident. William McNeal Jr. held a press conference with his family, attorneys Ben Crump and Harry Daniels, and additional advocates, to explain his perspective. The traumatic video showed McNeal being punched by a Jacksonville Sheriffs Officer during a traffic stop before being removed from his vehicle and arrested. The press conference was livestreamed by local news station Action News Jax. That day, I just wanted to know why I was getting pulled over [and] why I needed to step out of the car. I knew I didnt do anything wrong, McNeil detailed. I was really just scared. His stepfather, Alton Solomon, also spoke on behalf of his son and explained, Ive been through what hes been through. To see that moment made me go back to when I was 22. It hurt. It made me upset. He continued emotionally, fighting back tears, To see that is a hurting feeling. Crump, who also spoke at the press conference, expanded on his thoughts with CNN News Central anchor Kate Bolduan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do not listen to justification. Believe your eyes. Believe your ears with this. Ocular proof theres audio proof. And the sheriff cannot justify this, explained the famed legal professional. He cannot condone this. You must condemn this. I mean, there is no way you can say this reflects your policies, your training, your values. This is very disturbing on every level [] He literally was having a 21st-century Rosa Parks moment where an African American asked that they be respected as citizens with all the constitutional guarantees that are promised to all American citizens. Thats what this was. Following McNeals press conference, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters issued the following statement per Action News: In light of William McNeil Jr.s public announcement that he has retained counsel, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office will not offer any further comment regarding the circumstances surrounding McNeils February 19th arrest. Our agency has publicly released body-worn camera footage pertaining to this matter, and I provided a briefing on the status of the investigation earlier this week. This publicly shared information is currently available on all JSOs social media platforms and our transparency portal. However, in anticipation of litigation, our agency will not speak further on this matter. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. William McNeil, Jr., the 22-year-old man whose violent arrest by Jacksonville, Florida, sheriff's deputies was caught in a viral video, reflected on the incident in an interview with ABC News Live Prime anchor Linsey Davis on Wednesday. "I don't drive anymore," he said. "Just because I don't trust cops, anymore. I'm still scared. I can't get sleep at night because of trauma. I have flashbacks and nightmares." The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said on Sunday that the agency launched an investigation into the incident after the 2-minute cellphone video captured by McNeil went viral. On Monday, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters also released body camera footage from two deputies who were present on the scene of the arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Sheriff releases body camera footage in violent arrest that went viral William NcNeil, Jr. via Attorney Michael Wukela - PHOTO: William McNeil, Jr. is pictured in his band uniform in an updated photo. In the video, sheriff's deputies are seen beating and punching McNeil during the traffic stop after he repeatedly questioned why he was being pulled over and refused to exit his vehicle. "I feared for my life," McNeil told Davis when asked why he didn't get out of the car. "I was scared, frightened. I grew up being told that officers protect us, but that wasn't the case," he added. The deputy who broke McNeil's window and punched him was identified by the sheriff as D. Bowers. Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, one of McNeil's attorneys, Ben Crump, called for the firing of the deputy who punched McNeil during the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If you don't terminate this officer and you condone this type of police excessive force, then it sends a message to all of the other police officers on the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office team. It tells them, it is OK for you to treat citizens like this, it is okay to treat Black motorists like this," Crump said. "In America, it is not OK." "I will neither defend nor commend officer Bowers' response to resistance until all the facts are known and the investigation is completed," Waters said. "Pending the outcome of this administrative review, Officer Bowers has been stripped of his law enforcement authority," Waters added. It is unclear if other deputies involved in the arrest have been placed on administrative leave. William McNeil - PHOTO: Cell phone video captured on Feb. 19, 2015 shows an incident that led to the arrest of William McNeal, Jr. and prompted an investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. It is unclear if Bowers has retained an attorney. ABC News has reached out to Jacksonville Sheriff's Office for further comment, but has not heard back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waters also announced on Monday that "the State Attorney's Office has determined that none of the involved officers violated criminal law," but highlighted that the deputies' actions are now being examined in an "administrative review," which will determine if the deputies "violated [Jacksonville Sheriff's Office] policy." ABC News has reached out to the Office of the State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit serving Clay, Duval and Nassau Counties for further comment. Attorney Harry Daniels, who also represents McNeil, told ABC News that his client suffered "significant" injuries, including memory loss and a concussion, and plans to file a lawsuit. "We're going to take legal action. We're going to pursue a civil complaint in this matter in the upcoming weeks," Daniels said in the ABC News interview, adding that the legal team will also request that the U.S. Department of Justice review this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked what justice looks like for him, "McNeil said, "fighting for what's right, better training for our officers and better officers." "The outcome that we are hoping to see is justice," he said. "You know, justice for all Black men, you know, across America, across the world." McNeil's interview with ABC News came after he spoke out publicly for the first time about the incident during a press conference on Wednesday morning, alongside his attorneys and his parents. McNeil's mother, Latoya Solomon, said during the press conference that watching the video was emotionally difficult for her and it took her months to watch it in its entirety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm thankful to God for protecting him, because I know what the outcome could have been," Solomon said His stepfather, Alton Solomon, was visibly emotional while reflecting on the incident. "To see that video made me go back to the moment when I was 22. It hurt," he said. MORE: What we know about the violent Jacksonville traffic stop that went viral McNeil is a student at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, where he is majoring in Biology. He is also the leader of the marching band. Attorney Gerald Riggs, who also represents McNeil, said during the press conference that Black families all give their children the "talk" about how to deal with law enforcement and he said that McNeil "mastered the talk." Asked what he was taught while growing up about dealing with law enforcement , McNeil said, "Basically, what I was taught is to instead of fighting them on the street where we don't have power, fight them in the courts." GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A woman was sentenced to 30 years in prison for a 2022 shooting that took the life of a 24-year-old in Greenville County. The Thirteenth Circuit Solicitors Office announced that 54-year-old Dione Griffith Dobbs was found guilty by a Greenville County jury for the murder of Ju-Keya Babb. Evidence presented at trial showed that on September 13, 2022, a large fight involving several individuals occurred on Staunton Bridge Road near Hope Bridge Way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said cell phone video from witnesses on the scene showed Dobbs firing a gun. Babb was a passenger inside a vehicle that attempted to drive away after shots were fired. Witnesses also mentioned seeing Dobbs firing into the side of the vehicle where Babb was sitting, resulting in her death. Jameric Chakkel Brannon was also facing charges, including murder, in relation to the homicide. It was reported that Brannon and Dobbs exchanged gunshots following the altercation with Babb. According to court records, Brannons charges were dismissed in 2024 except for accessory after the fact to a felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dobbs was also found guilty of first-degree assault & battery, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle and pointing & presenting a firearm. She will serve her sentence in the SC Department of Corrections. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) An Oregon man found guilty of making hoax bomb threat phone calls to historically Jewish hospitals and care centers in New York City and on Long Island was sentenced to 60 months in jail, the U.S. Attorneys Office announced Wednesday. Domagoj Patkovic, 31, made threats in at least six separate calls to hospitals and livestreamed the calls, prosecutors say. More Local News Bomb sweeps were conducted in response to the calls. In September 2021, one of the false bomb threats caused a hospital on Long Island to partially evacuate and enter lockdown, prosecutors say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No explosive devices were found in any of the locations, prosecutors say. Domagoj Patkovic will spend significant time in prison for his targeting of Jewish hospitals across the New York metro area with hoax bomb threats, stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia. These hoax threats, motivated by Patkovics insidious antisemitic views, wasted law enforcement resources and put innocent lives at risk. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Advertisement 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. A man arrested for swiping a boat from a Manhattan marina to go for a naked joyride on the Hudson River escaped NYPD custody at the hospital where he was being treated Wednesday, police sources said. Stephen Blasetti, 36, slipped out of New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia in Washington Heights about 6:30 a.m. Wednesday, despite being in police custody there. He may have slipped out of the hospital after donning a lab coat and pretending to be a doctor, according to unconfirmed preliminary reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is facing grand larceny charges for allegedly swiping a dinghy from the Dyckman Marina in Inwood around noon Saturday, then rowed to a catamaran that was moored out in the Hudson River. NYPD Harbor Unit cops nabbed Blasetti, who was naked at the time of his arrest, on the second boat, officials said. It was believed he was high on drugs, possibly methamphetamines, at the time of his arrest and was taken to the hospital to be evaluated. Hes been in the hospital, under guard, since Saturday and was still awaiting arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court when he gave cops the slip. Cops on Wednesday were trying to determine exactly how he escaped the hospital and were scouring the area for surveillance footage that could help them track him down. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential. Man stored improvised explosive devices on apartment rooftops in SoHo: officials SOHO, Manhattan (PIX11) A Long Island man accused of making and attempting to use improvised explosive devices in Manhattan is facing multiple charges, according to the United States Attorneys Office. Michael Gann, 55, allegedly assembled at least seven IEDs by mixing potassium perchlorate and aluminum powder, officials said. More Local News Gann is accused of ordering the precursor chemicals and over 50 feet of fuses online in or around May 2025, prosecutors said. He allegedly stored the chemicals, shotgun shells, and at least five IEDs on the rooftops of residential apartment buildings in SoHo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said that photos from surveillance cameras showed Gann on SoHo rooftops with the explosives. A black device that Gann was seen holding in one of the photos had approximately 30 grams of explosive powder, which is 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks, according to authorities. Gann is accused of throwing a sixth IED onto the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, prosecutors said. Photo credit: Southern District of New York US Attorneys Press Office A seventh IED was found on his person during his arrest on or around June 5, officials said. Gann allegedly lied that he had disposed of the precursor chemicals and the shotgun shells in a dumpster in Manhattan. Ganns browsing history showed searches related to explosives and firearms, officials said. He was charged with attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, transportation of explosive materials, and unlawful possession of destructive devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Greg Abel, the incoming CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, will succeed Warren Buffett, who has led the company for 60 years. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Greg Abel is poised to succeed Warren Buffett as Berkshire Hathaway's CEO at the start of January. BI spoke to five Berkshire gurus about Abel's potential and how Berkshire might change under him. They expect a more hands-on management style, more focus on deals, and maybe even a dividend. Greg Abel has a big task ahead of him and the stock market knows it. The head of Berkshire Hathaway's non-insurance operations will be taking over from a titan of American business when he succeeds Warren Buffett as CEO. Buffett, a legendary investor and philanthropist, has transformed Berkshire from a failing textile mill into a $1 trillion conglomerate during his 60 years in charge. He's widely regarded as a master delegator, talent spotter, capital allocator, and dealmaker who acquired scores of businesses. Berkshire shares were up 19% year-to-date before Buffett's shock announcement in early May. They've since slumped 12%, while the benchmark S&P 500 has jumped 11%. The company did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Despite the stock's struggles, the five Berkshire gurus Business Insider spoke to are mostly positive about Abel's prospects. A change in management style Greg Abel is the head of Berkshire's non-insurance operations. Berkshire Hathaway Energy Larry Cunningham, the author of several books about Buffett and the director of the University of Delaware's Weinberg Center, predicted a change in management style. "Greg Abel is an operator at heart he'll engage more directly with underperforming subsidiaries, unlike Buffett, who was famously hands-off," Cunningham said. "Berkshire will become known for 'intelligent autonomy.'" Steven Check, the head of Check Capital Management and a longtime Berkshire shareholder, anticipated a similar shift. Berkshire "may actually be managed better" by Abel as he's "more of a hands-on people manager than Buffett, whose number one interest was capital allocation," he said. Check also nodded to Charlie Munger's 2014 shareholder letter, in which Buffett's late business partner hailed Abel and Ajit Jain, the boss of Berkshire's insurance operations, as "world-leading," and said that "in some important ways, each is a better business executive than Buffett." Berkshire's stock has fallen since Warren Buffett announced he was stepping down. Nati Harnik/AP Bill Smead, the founder of Smead Capital Management and a Berkshire investor for more than 30 years, championed Abel as a skilled business acquirer. He said Berkshire's "strength will probably be in buying whole companies because that will be Greg Abel's strength." NEW YORK (AP) A man accused of stealing a boat for a naked sail on the Hudson River escaped from a hospital while in custody after apparently slipping into a medical lab coat Wednesday, police said. Images published by the New York Post show the 36-year-old man wearing a white coat, blue hospital pants and no shoes while leaving Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where he was taken after his July 19 arrest. He is believed to have left the hospital around 6:30 a.m., police said. It was unclear how he escaped police custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man jumped from rocks at a Manhattan marina around noon Saturday and boarded a dinghy in the Hudson River, police said. He then sailed it to a larger, moored boat and climbed aboard, police said. He was naked when New York Police Department harbor and aviation officers caught up to him and took him into custody. The man was hospitalized for evaluation before being arraigned on charges of grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property and reckless endangerment. YORK COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Deputies are searching for a suspect accused of stealing money from a Japanese steakhouse in Clover. The incident occurred on July 18 at 4:01 a.m. at the Kochi Japanese Steakhouse at 5360 Highway 557. Deputies say a suspect broke into a small window in the rear door of the restaurant using a rock. He unlocked the door, propped it open and stole an unknown amount of money from the safe. Images from the York County Sheriffs Office Officials believe he possibly left the scene in a BMW. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to contact the York County Sheriffs Office or York County Crimestoppers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WSPA) The Asheville Police Department said they are searching for a man charged with assaulting two people. At approximately 6 a.m. July 20, officers were called out to a business at the 200 block of Smokey Park Highway following reports of a fight with weapons. Upon arrival, officers said they found two injured victims at the scene. One victim was allegedly transported to Mission Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, and the other was treated at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police department stated that a verbal altercation had occurred between two men inside the business. One of the men reportedly left, then returned and assaulted the other man outside. Bystanders attempted to intervene, and the suspect allegedly assaulted one of them before stealing a money from one of the victims wallet. The suspect then fled the scene. Officers identified the suspect through surveillance footage. The Asheville Police Department asks anyone with information to contact the department at (828) 252-1110. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Manchester gym owner pleaded guilty to two counts of simple assault against a 16-year-old girl, the Hillsborough County Attorney's Office announced Thursday. Terry Dow, 52, owner of the Training Station Fitness Center and Martial Arts Gym on 200 Elm St., was sentenced to two consecutive 12-month sentences, which were suspended on the condition that he undergoes a psychosexual evaluation, complies with all recommendations, and has no unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18. Dow was initially charged in June 2024. According to the Hillsborough County Attorney's Office, the victim and her father were members of Dow's gym and friends with the owner since the victim was about 5 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim eventually became a volunteer at the gym. According to the news release, Dow entered the women's changing room on May 18, 2024, while the victim was cleaning the room. The only other person in the gym at the time was an instructor, who was in a different area of the building. According to the Hillsborough County Attorney, Dow asked the victim if she would like a massage. Despite the victim clearly indicating that she did not consent, he reached his hands under her shirt to rub her back and shoulders. The Hillsborough County Attorney's Office commended the victim for coming forward to report the assault, and thanked members of the Manchester Police Department and its juvenile unit for their work in the investigation. The Marine Corps is developing new footwear after it found that a significant percentage of boots Marines were buying had quality issues, resulting in Marine Corps Exchange stores having to return nearly one-quarter of its boot stocks to the manufacturer in at least one case. The Optional Boot Program, which was publicized in a service news release last week, is meant to quickly get high-quality boots to Marines through inspections, fleet feedback, real-world testing and industry competition after COVID-era supply chain issues began rattling quality and inflating prices starting years ago. Over the summer, Marines will test boots that feature lighter materials, better drainage functions and improved designs meant to reduce injury. Officials said that the testing will include fielding boots across every environment Marines might find themselves in, from the High North of Norway to lowland rainforests in the Philippines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Air Force Command Pauses Use of M18 Handguns After Security Airman's Death The central idea behind the program is to leverage industry competition and testing to give Marines better options based on their various military occupational specialties, or MOSs, Col. Paul Gillikin, the program manager for the Corps' Combat Support Systems, or CSS, told Military.com in an interview Wednesday. The Optional Boot Program has been in place for more than a decade. Essentially, the Marine Corps is soliciting feedback from its troops to tell industry what they need to best perform an ever-evolving number of missions and, in turn, is asking manufacturers to deliver on those needs in a way that won't break banks or backs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's improving the lives of Marines through better performance, availability in the MCX and on cost," Gillikin said of the certification process. The competition between multiple vendors is critical for giving Marines "greater selection and increased buying power, access, shopping for fit and shopping for fit based on their MOS task, which I think is very important." In the grand scheme of a defense acquisition process that contends with billion-dollar aircraft and complex new technology, boots might appear to be a drop in the bucket. But for troops, high-quality footwear could be the difference between long-lasting injury, low mission performance and empty wallets. In recent years, boots weren't the only uniform item affected by disrupted supply chains. Military.com reported last year that Marine cammies were hitting the shelves once again after a two-year shortage that officials and industry leaders attributed to COVID pandemic hiring and material delays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gillikin said that he works closely with industry, which has been receptive to feedback on uniform items -- both U.S.-based vendors and countries beholden to the Trade Agreements Act, a law that allows some foreign manufacturers to sell products to the U.S. government. Having served as program manager for the CSS for two years, Gillikin said that he has received plenty of feedback from Marines about boot quality and cost, and that fit and durability are often top feedback points for footwear. The release from last Friday said that service-approved boots can range between $189 and $399 and, while enlisted Marines receive a uniform allowance, it often doesn't cover the cost of top-rated footwear. "I definitely understand too, from going to different bases and stations and talking with Marines, there's Marine families out there struggling financially," Gillikin said. "They don't need additional bills or swings in their uniform cost and items." The release did not mention specific manufacturers, and Gillikin declined to name vendors who had sent subpar boots to exchange stores, but recent inspections that looked at eyelet quality, sole-leather connection, color, durability and a variety of other attributes found that 17% of one product and 25% of another had quality issues, resulting in them being pulled from exchanges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We clearly don't want them to start off on day one with their new boot behind a performance power curve that should have been caught in the QC process," said Gillikin, referring to quality control. "We rejected it, sent it back to the vendor, and then they're going to update their manufacturing processes, their quality control. And then the goal after that is to make sure that 100% [of] the boots that make it into the MCX meet the Marine Corps specification." Testing new products means distributing the gear to units across the fleet, with boots that have better moisture-wicking material, lightweight soles, the ability to dry quickly or improved warmth for Marines -- to "put it on the track, make it do burpees and pullups till it throws up," Gillikin said, with various feedback points along the way for troops to tell CSS what works and what doesn't. The entire process is meant to take about six months, according to the release, before the items hit MCX shelves. The certification process varies by uniform item, but by design is ongoing. CSS and MCX teams will frequently inspect boots to ensure they're up to standard. Gillikin also said that Marines had been experimenting with different options on their own, for example purchasing mesh clothing Norwegian soldiers were wearing on joint rotations that, through the certification and competition process, are now available for Marines to purchase stateside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release also said that 25 instructors with the School of Infantry-West will spend the summer testing new boots, using their experience in the Corps to help provide feedback as part of the certification process. Gillikin said that cross-service coordination also will help the effort, with different branches able to share data they won't have to replicate themselves, resulting in what he described as increased purchasing power for the Pentagon and ultimately cheaper, possibly joint options for troops. "I want Marines to know we test this stuff and honor their feedback," Gillikin said. "I couldn't think of another, better way to do this thing. If we left them out of the equation, we would not be turning out a great product. The fact that they are able to give us that feedback means that what they've got is the best that's out there." Editor's note: This story has been updated to better distinguish between the inspection process and certification process, and to note how long the Optional Boot Program has existed. Related: Marine Uniforms Will Hit Shelves Again After Nearly 2-Year Shortage, Corps Says WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) A near-death experience in Japan could have ended one Texoma marines story before it really began, but Mark Bedwell is turning tragedy into purpose. Everything made it real loud woosh sound and place went up in flames, Bedwell said. It was October 19, 1979. A super typhoon struck Camp Fuji in Japan, rupturing fuel tanks, sending over 5,000 gallons of gasoline into the marine camp. This triggered flash fires that spread rapidly through the camp where Mark Bedwell was stationed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were just running for our lives. Thats all you could do is try to get out. And, seven seconds of it burned me up. About 40% of my body, about 35% third degree. The rest deep second, and I just thank the good lord that Im alive, Bedwell said,. The incident took 13 lives and injured over 70. Bedwell, just 21 at the time, was blessed to survive, though physically and mentally scarred. You think about your friends you lost. It still hurts 45 years later. But theyre with God, Bedwell said. After many dark days, PTSD, and drug abuse, Bedwell turned his life over to God. Now hes a part of the Northwest Texas Field and Stream Association, giving back by mentoring and guiding young people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watching your buddies die and nearly get yourself killed too yeah its not a pleasant experience, but let me tell you what, theres a lot of good in life. Life goes on, Bedwell said. For me, I get the most satisfaction here in our community, which we have good community, helping kids, especially underprivileged kids. Bedwell teaches them everything from how to hunt to fishing safely. You know, its fun to have the kids just put the phones away and teach them how to put a worm on hook and watch them catch catfish and look at the joy theyre experiencing, Bedwell said. From unimaginable trauma to life service, Mark Bedwells journey reminds us that healing isnt just what you overcome, but what you give back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youd like to sign up for courses through the Northwest Texas Field and Stream, the office is open Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 205 Southwest Pkwy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. On July 22 and 23, Ukrainians took to the streets in the countrys first mass anti-government protests since the outbreak of Russia's full-scale invasion three and a half years earlier. Thousands of citizens rallied in cities across the country on the first night with a clear goal: to urge President Volodymyr Zelensky to veto a bill passed in parliament that guts anti-corruption reforms, and to express anger with recent government attacks on anti-corruption figures. But that didnt stop the fringe far-right U.S. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene from using the protests to falsely claim that protesters were angry at Zelensky about the lack of a peace deal with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huge protests erupt in Kyiv against Ukrainian President Zelensky as he is a dictator and refuses to make a peace deal and end the war, she claimed on X, in a post that went viral with more than 50,000 likes, despite spreading falsehoods about the reason for the protests. Huge protests erupt in Kyiv against Ukrainian President Zelensky as he is a dictator and refuses to make a peace deal and end the war. Good for the Ukrainian people! Throw him out of office! And America must STOP funding and sending weapons!!! pic.twitter.com/WMJuMB7PlA Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 22, 2025 Kyiv Independent reporters present at the protests on both evenings saw no evidence that protesters were upset with Zelensky over the lack of a peace deal. Veto the law, protesters chanted repeatedly, while hand-written signs referenced the bill, the parliamentary members who voted for it, and the anti-corruption institutions under attack, along with more general sentiments of protest. "12414 is the number of betrayal," one sign read, using the number of the bill registered in parliament, while others simply showed the number with an X through it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about Greene's comments, Vasyl Volotovskyi, a 24-year-old marketing strategist who attended the protest, said, "I'm honestly shocked by how deep Russian propaganda has snuck into the government of a country that doesn't even border Russia." "This claim (in Greene's post) is nothing but a cruel fabrication of the protest's goals. All we wanted was fair laws that represent the will of the people. Myself and I believe the majority of participants are actually Zelensky's voters and we were there to show our disagreement with his decision, not to rise against Zelensky himself," Volotovskyi added. In a viral July 22 Facebook post by veteran Dmytro Koziatynskyi, widely credited with helping to organize the protests, he called on Ukrainians to gather in the street and specifically named the effects of the law on the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor (SAP) as the reason. "As you know, today parliament voted for changes that will eliminate the independence of the anti-corruption system. The members of parliament decided that NABU and SAP should be subordinate to the prosecutor general," Koziatynskyi wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Therefore, take cardboard from boxes and make posters where you write everything you think about the recent onslaught on the anti-corruption system." People attend the rally against Law #12414, which regulates the work of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office in Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025. (Danylo Antoniuk / The Kyiv Independent) Nor is Greene's claim true that Zelensky has refused to end the war. The president most recently proposed a new round of peace negotiations with Russia and has repeatedly stressed the need for a ceasefire, proposing a 30-day ceasefire in May that Russia has repeatedly rejected. A new round of talks began in Istanbul the evening of July 23. So far, Ukraine has made repeated concessions during negotiations, while Russia has refused to back down from its maximalist demands and has emphasized that its goal is "swift victory and the complete destruction" of Ukraines government. 'Pro-Russian powers will use this for their propaganda' Greenes comments, however, were noticed and amplified by pro-Kremlin voices, including the media outlet EurAsia Daily, which had its license license suspended by the European Union for being essential and instrumental in bringing forward and supporting Russias war of aggression against Ukraine, and for the destabilisation of its neighbouring countries," as well as the state-owned RIA Novosti, which is also blocked in the EU for spreading propaganda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the protesters said they expected Russia to attempt to use the protests against Kyiv, and expressed hope that foreigners would not be swayed by misinformation. "Yesterday, hundreds of Ukrainians, including me, visited a massive peaceful protest in Kyiv and other cities to protect the independence of two anticorruption institutions," Orysia Khimiak, a 32-year-old activist, told the Kyiv Independent. "Transparency is at least we can provide to our foreign allies and countries that so generously support us with weapons and aid, so we could continue our fight against a terrorist state Russia that tries to destroy us. "I know that pro-Russian powers will use this case for their propaganda, and we risk losing support and aid from our allies. I hope Mr. President (Zelensky) wont let it happen." Protesters hold placards during a demonstration in downtown Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025, urging the president to veto a law that strips independence from anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO. (Tetiana Dzhafarova / AFP via Getty Images) Greene, who has a track record of promoting unfounded conspiracy theories, is one of the most strident opponents of aid to Ukraine serving in the U.S. Congress and has repeatedly been accused of parroting Russian propaganda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, Greene attempted to amend an aid package to Ukraine, requiring any member of the House of Representatives who votes for the Ukraine aid bill to go and fight for Kyiv. The amendment failed to gain any traction among her peers. In response, Democrat Jared Moskowitz submitted his own failed amendment, proposing that Greene be appointed (Russian President) Vladimir Putin's Special Envoy to the United States Congress. Read also: A fatal mistake Ukrainian soldiers slam Zelenskys anti-corruption crackdown Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MARSHALL, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) Marshalls hometown internet provider is having a free ribbon-cutting and launch party in celebration of the companys rebrand from Fidelity Communications to Sparklight. Texas Craft Brewers Guild program, Brew City, adds Marshall The Sparklight Senior Director for the South Central Region, Kenny Walker, said, Our Sparklight rebrand reflects more than just a new look; it represents a renewed, energized commitment to the communities were proud to serve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event will feature giveaways, a raffle, and free refreshments while attendees learn about Sparklights latest home and business offerings. Director Walker said, Were thrilled to celebrate this exciting milestone with the residents of Marshall and surrounding areas, and to continue building strong connections through fast, reliable internet and local service our community can count on. School to oilfield and back: Marshall native starting new career at TSTC Through the rebrand, the company plans to deliver on its promise of reliable, fiber-powered connectivity. The company has invested over $1 billion to enhance connectivity within the community, and plans to continue investing in its infrastructure and advanced technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official Sparklight Marshall launch party is Thursday, July 31, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Sparklight office. The ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa While Joseph Kosinski is known as the filmmaker behind critically acclaimed films in Hollywood, his own story officially began in Marshalltown. Before the red carpets and big screens, Kosinski got his start at the Marshalltown Performing Arts Center, where he played the saxophone in Marshalltown High Schools Bobcat Band from 1988 to 1992. He was an excellent saxophonist, said Marshalltown resident, Betsy Mackee. His mother is a very talented pianist and I think thats where he gets his love of music from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mackee met Kosinskis mother, Patricia, in Iowa City. The two friends both moved to Marshalltown in 1979 where they raised their families. Both had four kids each, all around the same ages. When we moved here, they were the only family I knew and I was the only family they knew, Mackee said. So we got together a bunch, and the kids would play. Mackee remembers watching Kosinski play the saxophone on stage at the Marshalltown Performing Arts Center. Now, the auditorium walls remember him. Ankeny boy born at 21 weeks sets Guinness World Records title for prematurity His name is presented on a couple of plaques highlighting outstanding members of the Bobcat Band. His name can also be found under the Honorary Fine Arts Wall where all-state band, chorus, orchestra, and theater students are listed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, to Marshalltown, hes not Joseph. I wouldnt have ever called him Joseph, unless he was in trouble. And he was never in trouble in school, said Nancy Boone, Kosinskis sixth grade teacher who was also the mother of one of Kosinskis childhood friends, Scott. Scott remembered Kosinskis spark before the spotlight. Its no surprise that hes become this, he said. Hes always been very intelligent and very willing. He also says the spotlight also never changed Kosinski, except his name. He came back a few years ago and me and some others gathered with him at a home here in town and it was like talking to the same kid, said Scott. We all call him Joey because thats how he was referred to as growing up and some of his entourage that came with him from Hollywood to Marshalltown that year were laughing that we were calling him Joey rather than Joseph.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kosinski made his directorial debut in Hollywood with Tron: Legacy in 2010, followed by Oblivion in 2013. Birdland Pool open after delayed start to season The filmmaker seems to have a knack for sequels because hes also directed Top Gun: Maverick in 2022 and was a writer for Twisters (2024). Mackee is collecting some of Kosinskis movie posters to hang inside the Marshalltown Performing Arts Center to honor Kosinskis legacy. So far, she has posters for Tron: Legacy, Only the Brave, and Twisters. But Kosinski also honors Marshalltown in his own work. In Top Gun: Maverick, we love the nod he gave to Marshalltown when he showed the Cecil sign because Cecils was a favorite breakfast hangout and his dad used to take him to Cecils for breakfast all the time, said Mackee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mackee is organizing a celebration later this year to honor 40 years of the Marshalltown Performing Arts Center. Kosinski is tentatively scheduled to attend the celebration on November 15th. 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 23-year-old Massachusetts man is being accused by police of setting a fire to a house that killed a cat earlier this month. Hunter Barrett was arrested and charged with arson of a dwelling. He is expected to be arraigned in Berkshire District Court on Wednesday. The fire started in the early morning hours at a Pittsfield house on July 22. At 3:10 a.m., first responders arrived at the two family residence on Fourth Street and everyone inside the building was able to escape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A cat, however, died in the fire. The investigation is ongoing, officials said Wednesday. More News Read the original article on MassLive. Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT) is one of the Best Indian Stocks to Buy for Next 5 Years. Reuters highlighted that Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT) reported better-than-expected quarterly earnings, thanks to the improved client spending in segments of its Americas business. The companys gross revenue came in at INR221.3 billion ($2,581.6 million), reflecting a decline of 1.6% QoQ and an increase of 0.8% YoY. Net income for Q1 2026 came in at INR33.3 billion ($388.4 million), a decline of 6.7% QoQ and an increase of 10.9% YoY. Wipro (WIT) Reports Better-than-expected Quarterly Earnings, Highlights Reuters A modern office building with a large sign displaying the companies logo. Reuters, while quoting analysts at Morgan Stanley, highlighted that robust deal wins at Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT) place it well for growth in the second half of the fiscal year. The firm also highlighted that analysts at Investec believe deal wins were the highlights for Q1 2026, and these were the highest in over 13 quarters. Notably, total bookings came in at $4,971 million, reflecting a rise of 24.1% QoQ and 50.7% YoY in constant currency. The large deal bookings amounted to $2,666 million, implying 49.7% growth QoQ and 130.8% growth YoY in constant currency. Reuters also reported that Morgan Stanley believes that such large deals remain concentrated among Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT)s top clients, reflecting greater wallet share. Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT) operates as an IT, consulting, and business process services company. The company is based in Bengaluru, India. While we acknowledge the potential of WIT as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 13 Cheap AI Stocks to Buy According to Analysts and 11 Unstoppable Growth Stocks to Invest in Now Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. A Natick man is facing charges in connection with soliciting sexual acts and images from a person he believed to be a 12-year-old girl, the Middlesex County District Attorneys Office announced Wednesday. Scott Newman, 51, has been charged with enticement of a child under 16 and attempting to commit a crime, the district attorneys office said in a press release. On July 15, Massachusetts State Police were contacted by the Defiance Police Department in Ohio about a suspect located in Middlesex County, the district attorneys office said. The suspect who theyd identified as Newman had been unknowingly chatting online with an undercover detective that was posing as a 12-year-old girl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newman had engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the undercover detective, the district attorneys office said. During the conversations, he encouraged them to send him sexually explicit images and sent them images of himself. Newman also intentionally used encrypted messaging apps to engage with the undercover detective and made an effort to hide the conversations from the purported 12-year-old girls parents, Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan said in the release. This case underscores the very real dangers young people face online, Ryan said. ... As private messaging platforms become more common, parents and caregivers must work even harder to foster open communication and educate children about safe internet and social media use. The fact that Newmans job involves overseeing family education and leadership meaning that he likely works in close proximity to children also became of particular concern to investigators, the district attorneys office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newman was arraigned on the charges in Framingham District Court on July 18 and held on $25,000 bail, the district attorneys office said. The judge ordered him to surrender his passport and have no contact with minors. Newman is due back in court on Aug. 14, the district attorneys office said. More local crime stories Read the original article on MassLive. Several U.S. lawmakers, including two Massachusetts Democrats in the House of Representatives, met with activist and former Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil on Tuesday. A legal permanent resident of the United States, Khalil was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on March 8. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a recent memo that Khalil did not break the law, Rubio argued he should be deported for beliefs that could undermine U.S. foreign policy interests, the Associated Press reported. Detained for 104 days, a federal judge in New Jersey ordered Khalil to be released on June 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khalil visited American legislators on Tuesday to demand accountability from Columbia University, from the Trump administration for their retaliation against my speech, he told Reuters. Mahmoud Khalil and I got to meet up in my office earlier today, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, D-2nd District, wrote in a post on X shared on Tuesday. I met with him in detention when he spent 104 days behind bars targeted by [President Donald] Trump for speaking out against [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahus vicious war in Gaza." Silencing dissent is un-American, McGoverns post read. We must defend the right to speak freely! Khalil also met with U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, who called him a kind, gentle soul who cares deeply about others humanity, in an X post. She added that his abduction, detention, and ongoing persecution by the Trump [administration] is egregious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am deeply relieved that he has been reunited with his wife and his infant son, Pressley wrote. Our meeting today was fortifying and productive. I look forward to remaining in contact with Mahmoud as we continue work to center the humanity of families in Gaza, address the unjust and unlawful targeting of students exercising their right to free speech, and protect the fundamental, constitutional rights of everyone who calls this country home. Khalil also met with U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.; and U.S. Reps Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich.; Ilhan Omar, D-Minn.; Summer Lee, D-Pa..; and Troy Carter, D-La. In an X post about meeting with Khalil, Sanders called Khalils arrest outrageous. We must not allow Trump to destroy the First Amendment and freedom to dissent, Sanders wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khalil has maintained that his arrest was politically motivated over his pro-Palestinian views and anti-war stance regarding Israels war in Gaza, which has killed over 59,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Several other international students who have protested the war in Gaza have been detained by ICE agents, including Tufts University graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk, who was detained on a street by masked ICE agents in Somerville in March. Rubio said Ozturks student visa was revoked and linked her arrest to her political views. Ozturk co-wrote an opinion piece in Tufts student newspaper condemning the war in Gaza and called on the university to acknowledge the Palestinian genocide. She was released from federal custody in May. More stories involving ICE Read the original article on MassLive. Palestinians are collapsing in the street and wasting away as Gaza suffers mass starvation, a coalition of more than 100 NGOs has said. Medicins Sans Frontieres (MSF) is among organisations warning that their own staff are dying of hunger. The NGOs called on Israel to reopen all land crossings into the strip, to allow the flow of food, clean water, medical supplies and shelter materials. The intervention comes two months after the start of an Israel and US-backed aid distribution system provided by American contractors, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which was put in place after a nearly three-month total blockade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN, which believes that roughly a quarter of the Gazan population is now facing famine, claimed that more than 1,000 people had been killed by Israeli troops in the vicinity of the purpose-built distribution sites. Displaced Palestinians at a UNRWA-affiliated Girls Middle School protest against hunger, demanding an end to the attacks and immediate delivery of aid - Hassan Jedi/Anadolu Signed by 111 aid organisations, the MSF-led intervention criticised Israel for presiding over a cycle of hope and heartbreak, [with Gazans] waiting for assistance and ceasefires, only to wake up to worsening conditions. Survival is dangled like a mirage, the group said. The statement said that aid workers, including those working for large aid NGOs, were joining the scramble for food at the distribution sites run by the GHF, where they risk being shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It quoted an aid worker in Gaza as saying: Children tell their parents they want to go to heaven because at least heaven has food. Israeli officials reportedly denied that famine was taking hold in the enclave. But one conceded that actions needed to be taken to stabilise the humanitarian situation. Israels foreign ministry said: These organizations are serving the propaganda of Hamas, using their numbers. There are more than 700 aid trucks waiting for the UN to pick up inside of Gaza. This bottleneck is the main obstacle to maintaining a consistent flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, their obsession against Israel is more important to them then helping the people of Gaza. Under the previous aid system, the UN and other organisations oversaw the entry of up to 600 lorries a day into the Strip, with the aid largely distributed in population centres Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GHF system, however, requires recipients to travel to purpose-built sites. Israel says Hamas seized much of the aid before the GHF was instituted, using it to finance terror operations and cement its control of the civilian population. Some food aid has been allowed in parallel to the GHF system, but humanitarian groups say Israel typically only lets a trickle of lorries through. Mosab Al-Debs, 14, lies on a bed at Al-Shifa Hospital; medics say he is suffering from malnutrition - Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters They say the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) often reject requests for distribution authorisation certificates, without which aid convoys are liable to be attacked. Israeli officials have now intensified a row with the international community by circulating videos appearing to show nearly one thousand trucks of aid sitting idle having entered Gaza. Israel blames NGOs for failing to distribute it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was reported that distribution was being held up by practical disagreements between the UN and Israel over issues like whether drivers are allowed to carry communication devices that might fall into the hands of Hamas. Because of escalating hunger, trucks are increasingly looted by civilians. The row continued as negotiators in Doha waited for a Hamas response to the latest set of proposals for a ceasefire and hostage deal. In the last 24 hours, both Israeli and Saudi outlets have quoted anonymous officials as saying that an agreement is close. Israel is said to have agreed to release 1,100 Palestinian prisoners arrested prior to Oct 7 2023, including 125 serving life sentences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A sticking point is reportedly the size of the IDF-controlled perimeter zone, particularly in the south of the strip, with Hamas demanding it only be 800m (880 yards) wide, but Israel insisting on 1,200m to 1,500m (almost one mile). Hamas is also said to remain unsatisfied with Israeli assurances that the IDF will not resume fighting at the end of an initial 60-day ceasefire. Steve Witkoff, the US Middle East envoy, is preparing to visit the region later this week, raising hopes an agreement is in the offing. But less optimistic indications emerged later on Wednesday after Arab mediators reportedly refused to pass on Hamass latest response on the basis that it was not serious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the IDF has advanced deeper into Gaza City, saying it struck 120 targets in the previous 24 hours. The Hamas-run health ministry said 113 people were killed, including children and a pregnant woman. 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. Massachusetts school systems have been ranked the best in the country. According to a recent report from personal finance website WalletHub, the Bay State boasts the best school systems in the country, excelling in academic performance, teacher quality, and overall student well-being. WalletHubs annual study evaluated all 50 states and the District of Columbia across 32 key metrics, including test scores, funding, class size, safety, and teacher credentials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some of the categories the Commonwealth placed in: (1=Best; 25=Avg.): Overall Rank: 1st 1st Math Test Scores 1st Reading Test Scores 6th Pupil-Teacher Ratio 21st Median SAT Score 4th Median ACT Score 4th Dropout Rate 9th Bullying Incidence Rate 5th % of Threatened/Injured High School Students Massachusetts earned top marks in core academic subjects, including math and reading scores for both fourth and eighth gradersa strong indicator of long-term educational success. According to Wallet Hub, students at the high school level also do well, as Massachusetts has the highest share of students in the country who received a score of 3 or better on an AP exam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts has the fifth-lowest share of students who report being threatened or injured with a weapon on school property, the third-lowest share who have been in a physical fight at school, and the fourth-lowest share who report illegal drugs being available to them on school property, the survey said. Connecticut came in 2nd for best school systems, followed by New Jersey, Virginia, and New Hampshire. To view the full study, visit the link here. 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 BOSTON (WPRI) Massachusetts State Police are searching for who vandalized the State House early Wednesday morning. Troopers responded to a report of vandalism on Beacon Street around 3:30 a.m. A preliminary investigation shows that someone painted white paint on the gate and spray-painted before fleeing into Boston Common, state police said. State police said they also received a report of a suspicious package in the Common, which may have been left by the suspect. The bomb squad was called to investigate out of an abundance of caution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests have been made at this time. Investigators are working to identify who is responsible for the incident. Anyone with information is urged to call state police at (617) 727-6780. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: 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. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea will retire after nearly four decades of service, the Navy announced Tuesday. Honea, who became the Navys 16th MCPON on Sept. 8, 2022, will retire on Sept. 12, 2025, after 38 years in the Navy. During his tenure as the Navys top enlisted sailor, Honea worked alongside sailors and lawmakers to enhance the lives of enlisted personnel, advocating for better education and mental health support, among other subjects, according to a Navy release. It has been a profound privilege and honor to serve as your MCPON, Honea said in the release. I will carry with me the countless memories of meeting Sailors across the Fleet, hearing about your remarkable achievements, as well as the level of trust you placed in me to advocate for you and your families. During my tenure it has been my mission to remove barriers and improve the quality of life for you and your family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honea collaborated with Congress and the Defense Department to help pass legislation that increased pay for junior enlisted ranks by 15% and contributed to efforts to improve unaccompanied housing, medical care, spouse employment and child care services, the Navy said. Honea becomes the 16th master chief petty officer of the Navy In his role, Honea championed quality-of-life improvements for sailors and was a vocal supporter of upgrades to manning requirements, living conditions and mental health access for sailors assigned to aircraft carriers undergoing maintenance in shipyards, Military Times previously reported. In April 2022, three junior sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier George Washington died by suicide. A Naval Air Force Atlantic investigation found that overtaxed ship psychologists, a lack of intervention from senior leaders and pervasive taboos about seeking help for mental health led to an improper framework for psychiatric help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honea told Navy Times in 2023 of the need for sailors to feel comfortable with their chiefs and enlisted leaders to confide in during tough times. Every sailor, he said, deserved to have a chief petty officer in their life who valued their well-being and was invested in their health and success. The original embedded mental health professional in the United States Navy was the chief petty officer, Honea said. Honea enlisted in the Navy in 1987, according to his Navy biography, and was promoted to master chief in 2006 after rising through the ranks. In 2009, he became a command master chief and completed tours aboard the destroyer Gridley and the transport dock New Orleans. He served as the command master chief of U.S. Naval Forces Korea, among other assignments. As a fleet master chief, he completed tours at U.S. Pacific Fleet and at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command as the command senior enlisted leader, according to his Navy bio. Honea received the Defense Superior Service Medal, two Legion of Merit Medals, five Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals and four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. A pregnant woman. Stock photo from Getty Images. Rural hospitals in Ohio are looking down the barrel of significant losses when it comes to the federal budget reconciliation bill and its changes to Medicaid funding. On top of that general concern, the few hospitals in those areas that are still able to provide maternity care may see further challenges. The more than $1 trillion in federal Medicaid cuts approved by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act included adding work requirements to Medicaid eligibility, something the state had in its newest operating budget as well. The federal budget also included provisions regarding provider taxes, which states use to fund Medicaid agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to President Donald Trump and congressional leaders in June, four Democratic U.S. Senators pushed back against the reconciliation package, particularly the provisions impacting rural health. Rural hospitals are often the largest employers in rural communities, and when a rural hospital closes or scales back its services, communities are not only forced to grapple with losing access to health care, but also with job loss and the resulting financial insecurity, stated the letter, signed by U.S. Sens. Edward Markey, Ron Wyden, Jeffrey Merkley and Chuck Schumer. The letter included a list of rural hospitals in the country considered at risk of financial distress because of the population of Medicaid patients they served and/or their consecutive years with a negative total profit margin. Hospitals in Scioto, Darke, Columbiana, Tuscarawas, Harrison, Crawford, Jackson, Adams, and Fayette counties were included in the list, and only four of the 11 have access to maternity units or birthing centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth and Wayne HealthCare in Greenville all list maternity care as part of their services. Galion Community Hospital also has those services, and shares birthing facilities with Bucyrus Community Hospital, which was also listed as at risk. Adena Fayette Medical Center (formerly Fayette County Memorial Hospital) in Washington Court House provides only provides OB/GYN services, but the systems medical center in Chillicothe has a birthing center. Medicaid funding is used for 4 in 10 births nationwide, data from the Kaiser Family Foundation showed, and for almost half the births in rural communities specifically. In 2023, 39% of births in Ohio were covered by Medicaid, according to the foundation. While a spokesperson from Wayne HealthCare said nothing has changed currently within their obstetrics services, a press release at the end of June released by the facility expressed concern about the congressional proposals to cut Medicaid funding that were eventually passed, saying the cuts pose a serious threat to rural health care access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a health care provider serving thousands in west-central Ohio, we want to reassure our community that Wayne HealthCare is not at risk of closure or cutting services, the release stated. However, these proposed cuts could have devastating consequences, particularly for mothers, infants and low-income families. The health care facility said it remains one of the few rural hospitals in the area providing comprehensive womens health services, including labor and delivery care and employed obstetricians. According to the press release, about 45% of those services are funded through Medicaid. These proposed cuts jeopardize not just our ability to sustain these services, but the very health and safety of mothers, infants and families in our region, Wayne HealthCare said in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio is already considered low-ranking when it comes to infant mortality and maternal health rates, a struggle the state has dealt with for at least the last decade. Southern Ohio Medical Center, Fayette County Regional Medical Center, Galion Community Hospital, and Bucyrus Community Hospital had not responded to multiple requests for comment as of Friday. Maternity care units at risk Hospitals in Ohios rural areas have an uphill battle economically already, with the National Rural Health Association showing three rural hospital closures in most recent data, and 18% of the 57 total rural hospitals considered vulnerable financially. A spokesperson for the Ohio Hospital Association said his own research of hospital closures showed 25 hospitals in the state have closed or consolidated maternity care since 2018, with 10 of those serving rural areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress provided $50 billion in an attempt to stem objections from lawmakers on the impact of the $155 billion in Medicaid budget cuts on rural hospitals alone. The Ohio Hospital Association said it was extremely grateful for the provisions in the Trump/Republican megabill that establish new financial resources for rural hospitals and extends Ohios Medicaid supplemental payment program through 2028. We are grateful for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with our congressional delegation and look forward to continued collaboration on future health care policies, the association said in a statement. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX But health care and Medicaid experts are unsure whether or not that new money will make a dent in the problem. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Ohio is one of 12 states where the cuts will have an outsized impact, due to the large rural population with Medicaid expansion groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The uncertainty extends to maternity services nationwide, as rural hospitals are struggling to maintain, if not eliminating all together, obstetric care due to the lack of help with finances from Medicaid reimbursements and other federal funding, and the rising costs of doing business. The National Partnership for Women & Families said the federal budget bill could potentially mean the closure of more than 140 rural labor and delivery units across the country, where Medicaid helps keep hospital labor and delivery units running, including services for high-risk pregnancy management, neonatal intensive care units and postpartum and lactation support. According to the partnerships data, more than 100 rural hospitals have already closed their labor and deliver units since 2020 or announced plans to close before next year. We were already facing a dramatic maternity care crisis in the country, particularly in the South and in rural areas, said Jennifer Driver, senior director of reproductive rights for the State Innovation Exchange, a national organization focused on state and national reproductive health policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Driver said with the new federal funding cuts, the country will see even more backtracking, especially in communities who were already struggling to make ends meet. Losses of rural hospitals mean greater distances for pregnant individuals to travel, and that could mean more births happening costly emergency rooms, risks to healthy birth rates and the potential for sub-par prenatal care because of a lack of facilities from which to get that care. A study by the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the percentage of women with low prenatal care use rose in rural counties where hospital-based obstetric services were lost, which is consistent with prior studies showing that increased travel time is associated with fewer prenatal care visits. Driver said creating more barriers to health care for mothers who have to take care of children and for low-income households who might not have reliable transportation just creates more problems for states in maintaining the health of their residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When all those things are impacted, thats going to impact your every day existence, Driver said. Youre already seeing people start to wonder, what is going to happen to me? Ohios access to that care will be reduced in another way starting on Aug. 1, after the announcement of two Planned Parenthood clinics closing their doors in Hamilton and Springfield. The clinics cited Medicaid budget changes as reasoning for the closure of the clinics, which provided primary and preventive reproductive care. This story has been update to clarify the services of Adena Fayette Medical Center. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Matthew Perry on Build discussing "The Kennedys After Camelot" in 2017 - Credit: Mike Pont/WireImage A doctor charged in connection with Matthew Perrys sudden death two years ago appeared in a Los Angeles federal courtroom Wednesday and took responsibility for his role leading up to the Friends actors fatal ketamine overdose. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 43, pleaded guilty to four counts of distribution of ketamine. The charges carry a total maximum sentence of 40 years in federal prison. His sentencing is set for Dec. 3. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plasencia was arrested last August alongside Jasveen Sangha, the woman described by prosecutors as the Ketamine Queen of North Hollywood. Plasencia repeatedly dabbed his face with a tissue as he stood in court Wednesday and listened to prosecutors describe the evidence against him. He agreed he personally injected Perry with liquid ketamine in the weeks before Perrys death, including once in a car parked outside the Long Beach Aquarium, and that he sold Perry vials of the dissociative anesthetic for home use without a legitimate medical purpose. As part of the plea deal read aloud in court, prosecutors agreed that the exact batch of ketamine in Perrys system when the 54-year-old actor was found floating face down in his hot tub on Oct. 28, 2023, was not sold by Plasencia. (An autopsy later determined Perry died at his home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles from the acute effects of ketamine.) After Plasencia entered his pleas in a barely audible voice, U.S. District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett agreed to let the doctor remain free on bond pending his sentencing. His lawyer Karen L. Goldstein argued he has no prior criminal record, a 2-year-old son and deep ties to his community. Goldstein also told the court Plasencia plans to discontinue his medical license in the next 45 days. Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry. He is fully accepting responsibility by pleading guilty to drug distribution, Goldstein said in a statement issued after the hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Plasencia intends to voluntarily surrender his medical license, acknowledging his failure to protect Mr. Perry, a patient who was especially vulnerable due to addiction, she said. While Dr. Plasencia was not treating Mr. Perry at the time of his death, he hopes his case serves as a warning to other medical professionals and leads to stricter oversight and clear protocols for the rapidly growing at-home ketamine industry in order to prevent future tragedies like this one. Dr. Salvador Plasencia pleaded guilty Wednesday to 4 drug distribution felonies linked to Matthew Perrys 2023 ketamine overdose death Dr. Plasencia is profoundly remorseful for the treatment decisions he made while providing ketamine to Matthew Perry, his lawyer says pic.twitter.com/Oui8aBiN7b Nancy Dillon (@Nancy__Dillon) July 23, 2025 When federal officials first unsealed their 18-count indictment last year, they identified Plasencia and Sangha as the lead defendants in the case. They said Perrys live-in assistant Kenneth Iwamasa, Dr. Mark Chavez (another physician), and Erik Fleming, a local man who allegedly acted as a go-between for Sangha in ketamine sales to Perry, already had agreed to plea deals in the case. [Plasencia] essentially acted as a street-corner drug dealer peddling a dangerous substance to somebody he knew was addicted, Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian Yanniello said last year at Plasencias arraignment. He commented to another patient that the victim was spiraling out of control, yet he still offered to sell [Perry] more ketamine. In his plea agreement signed June 13, Plasencia admitted he once injected Perry with ketamine while the actor was in the backseat of the car parked outside the aquarium in Long Beach. He also admitted he visited Perrys house on Oct. 12, 2023, administered ketamine, and then watched as Perrys blood pressure spiked, causing the actor to freeze up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not withstanding victim M.P.s reaction, defendant left additional vials of ketamine with defendant Iwamasa, knowing that defendant Iwamasa would inject the ketamine into victim M.P., the plea agreement stated. Plasencia initially pleaded not guilty at his arraignment last year and was released on bond. Sangha, 42, was remanded into custody and is awaiting trial. Prosecutors argued last August that she was a flight risk due to her British citizenship and because she allegedly returned to selling ketamine after both Perrys death and the death of another man in 2019 that purportedly was linked to ketamine she supplied. Officials said Perry became addicted to intravenous ketamine while seeking treatment for depression and anxiety at a local clinic in fall 2023. They said Perry turned to the four suppliers charged in the case when the clinic refused to increase his dosage. According to prosecutors, Plasencia and Chavez distributed about 20 vials of liquid ketamine to Perry in exchange for $55,000 cash during the last few weeks of the actors life. The doctors charged Perry $2,000 for a single vial that cost Chavez approximately $12, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wonder how much this moron will pay?[Lets] find out, Plasencia allegedly texted Chavez on Sept. 30, 2023, according to the indictment. Later that day, Plasencia injected Perry with ketamine at the actors house and left vials behind for Iwamasa to administer to Perry even though the assistant had no medical training, the filing stated. After the meeting, Plasencia allegedly texted Chavez that the interaction was like a bad movie. Chavez is due to be sentenced on Sept. 17. Fleming has his sentencing scheduled for Nov. 12, while Iwamasa has his sentencing set for Nov. 19. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. One of the physicians who supplied ketamine to "Friends" star Matthew Perry appeared in a Los Angeles federal court Wednesday morning to plead guilty to multiple drug charges connected to the actor's death. Dr. Salvador Plasencia, known to Perry as "Dr. P.," according to prosecutors, pleaded guilty to four felony counts of ketamine distribution. Plasencia, 43, supplied the drug to Perry through his live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, one of three defendants who pleaded guilty last year to their own connected charges. "While Dr. Plasencia was not treating Mr. Perry at the time of his death, he hopes his case serves as a warning to other medical professionals and leads to stricter oversight and clear protocols for the rapidly growing at-home ketamine industry in order to prevent future tragedies like this one," his lawyer, Karen L. Goldstein, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goldstein said her client was "profoundly remorseful" for his role in supplying ketamine to Perry, who was vulnerable due to his history of addiction. The doctor agreed in addition to the plea deal signed last month to give up his medical license within the next 30 to 45 days. Plasencia faces up to 40 years in prison along with $2 million in fines. His voice was quiet during the hearing Wednesday, with Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett asking him to speak up as he relinquished his right to a jury trial. Perry, 54, who was found in his Pacific Palisades home's hot tub in October 2023, died from the acute effects of ketamine. Authorities allege the actor's final dose, injected by Iwamasa, was sourced from the "Ketamine Queen" Jasveen Sangha, who pleaded not guilty and has a trial date set for Aug. 19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plasencia dabbed his face repeatedly with a cloth as prosecutors read out the charges, detailing how he sold the drug to Perry for thousands of dollars, sometimes administering it in the back of cars in parking lots. Plasencia will remain out on bail until his sentencing on Dec. 3 on request from his defense lawyer, who argued that he is one of the primary caretakers of a 2-year-old son. His Calabasas urgent care clinic, which remains open, requires patients to sign waivers that explain the charges against him. 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. MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) Officials from the Mattoon Police Department issued an alert via social media on Wednesday warning people to beware of scams. Officials wrote that a common scam making its rounds lately has involved people being asked to send money to scammers through cryptocurrency like Bitcoin or putting money on a gift card. The scammers have also claimed that there is an urgent need for the money, including to avoid criminal charges or to avoid losing money due to a hacked bank account. Crime Stoppers seeking tips to ID man involved in $1,000 theft in Springfield Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scammers have also claimed that victims will get their money back once it has been sent through cryptocurrency. Mattoon Police said that no legitimate business or organization will ever request money sent through cryptocurrency or gift cards. If ever in doubt, people can contact local law enforcement and speak to an officer in person before making any transactions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. This story was originally published on Supply Chain Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Supply Chain Dive newsletter. Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America will transition its internal distribution operations to DHL Supply Chain, tentatively on Oct. 5, according to a July 15 press release. YMMC expects the strategic partnership to allow it to expand capacity, improve logistics transparency and speed up delivery to customers, the release said. The company does not expect the transition to disrupt customers' current service levels. "By enhancing our internal logistics capabilities, we're able to focus even more on our core strength world-class manufacturing and creating Kando for our customers," Bob Brown, YMMC president and CEO, said in the release. Creating Kando, a Japanese word meaning deep satisfaction and excitement, is a pillar of Yamahas corporate philosophy. YMMC will transition about 175 team members to DHL Supply Chain as part of the deal and continue supporting distribution operations, the company said. The workers will remain on-site at YMMC. The switch to DHL Supply Chain reflects YMMC's long-term strategy to build a more responsive and scalable supply chain, the manufacturer said. DHL's on-site support and logistics expertise position YMMC to strengthen reliability and increase flexibility, per the release. The YMMC partnership comes as DHL Supply Chain expands its operations. The company acquired Inmar Supply Chain Solutions in January, adding 14 return centers and about 800 associates. Recommended Reading UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11) Mayor Eric Adams is calling on federal lawmakers to stand up and make sure undocumented immigrants in New York City, who are not committing serious crimes, are protected from the ramped-up Immigration and Customs Enforcement action. It comes after U.S. Border Czar Tom Homan said Monday, Were gonna flood the zone So sanctuary cities get exactly what they dont want, more agents in the community. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a one on one interview with PIX11s Eileen Lehpamer, Mayor Adams said Tuesday Were communicating with HSI and finding out if that flooding action is to deal with those who are committing serious crimes and coordinating with the New York City police department, and other agencies to go after those dangerous people, then we want to do that coordination. If its to go after migrants, asylum seekers, undocumented people, its the wrong thing to do. Adams added, We need to be clear, cities such as New York, Chicago, and Denver, and others, we dont control Immigration Enforcement this is a moment for our federal electeds to step up and define what the plans should be to make sure were not going after innocent New Yorkers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jul. 22GRAND FORKS Superintendent Paul Olson is confident that the issue surrounding a mural at the School for the Blind in Grand Forks is "moot," based on a past North Dakota attorney general opinion that indicates city zoning ordinances do not apply to state buildings. Whatever becomes of the mural, it'll likely be "a couple of months or longer" before the City Council will again discuss it, according to Mayor Brandon Bochenski. The superintendent of North Dakota Vision Services/School for the Blind told the Grand Forks Herald on Tuesday morning that after discussions with Matthew Menge, the assistant attorney general who works with the school, he feels the case for keeping the mural is "very solid." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are very confident that we're going to be able to retain it, based on the earlier opinion" by the Attorney General's Office, Olson said. A 1998 opinion states that "a city's zoning authority does not control the use of state property," according to a July 18 memo the City Attorney Dan Gaustad sent to City Council members. The question of whether to keep or remove the mural was to be discussed at Monday's City Council meeting, but Bochenski urged the council to delay action until more information from the state could be clarified although public comment was to be allowed. Council members agreed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this point, "we are not asking for approval or a variance," Olson said. But he noted that the City Council may want "to come to a determination" on the issue, as it might affect matters down the road. Bochenski told the Herald Tuesday morning that the decision to delay action on the mural "is the right thing to do, so we've got the full picture of where the state's view is on that. "And there's some other nuance with the state's opinion that may have implications on other zoning things so our city attorney wants to look into that. So I would imagine it's going to take a couple of months or longer before this gets back in front of the council. But the mural will stay up in the meantime, clearly." Shilo Previti, coordinator of the University Park Neighborhoods Association, has organized residents to voice their concerns about the mural to council members and other officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We've gotten so many emails and office visits from people who wanted to do whatever they could to help advocate for the mural to stay," Previti said. "So, we saw the memo provided by the city attorney as a good sign for this specific mural." "We support neighborhood beautification including murals in general, not only at this specific site," she said. The city ordinance regarding murals does not include language concerning variances, Gaustad told council members Monday evening. In other ordinances that do address variances, "the standard is really high." The North Dakota Supreme Court has also issued some decisions regarding when variances can be granted, he said. "The threshold for variances is difficult to get to." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The property must be "peculiar, unique or special" to qualify, Gaustad said, noting that he wanted to have time to explore whether or not there are "other standards other than a variance that council would want to consider." "I don't see how you can allow a variance now," he said. Gaustad has stated that he wanted to determine how this matter "might impact other buildings" and that it "has broader implications for the City and possibly other municipalities." In the July 18 memo to council members, Gaustad said he received an "unsolicited email" from Stephanie Johnson, assistant attorney general with the UND Office of General Counsel, alerting him to a 1998 opinion of the North Dakota attorney general that ultimately concluded that "a city's zoning authority does not control the use of state property." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that memo, Gaustad indicated that there are three possible solutions to the current situation as it relates to the state. First, the city can seek to enforce its zoning regulation on North Dakota Vision Services through court action or by a request to the North Dakota attorney general for an opinion regarding the situation. Second, the city could agree that "in this singular and limited circumstance" the city's zoning regulation does not control the use of the School for the Blind building and allow for the mural to be completed and remain. Or third, the city can amend the mural ordinance to permit exceptions under specific circumstances that are less stringent than the standard for a variance and to also address issues involving the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Near the end of the City Council meeting Monday, which ran past 10 p.m., Bochenski invited public comment, but no one addressed the council about the mural issue almost all attendees had left earlier. A city ordinance requires prior approval by the City Council before work on murals can begin. Such permission was not secured by North Dakota Vision Services/School for the Blind an unfortunate oversight, the school's superintendent, Olson, has stated publicly. The purpose of the mural, Olson said, is to increase public awareness of the school's services for those with visual impairment. The ordinance also disallows the placement of murals on public right-of-ways, excluding alleys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mural, painted on the exterior wall on the north side of the school's garage on Sixth Avenue North, abuts a public right-of-way that being Sixth Avenue North. The school is located at 500 Stanford Road. The city's Planning and Zoning Commission, at its July 9 meeting, Olson requested a variance to allow the mural to remain in place. During the public hearing that day, numerous people spoke in favor of keeping it. One man, who declined to identify himself as required by council protocol, spoke against it. The commissioners voted 6-2 to recommend that the mural be removed. The mural is substantially completed, needing only a few hours of work to finish, according to the artist, Trey Everett, of Crookston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mural has sparked controversy, especially online, and fueled a letter-writing campaign, spurred by those in favor of keeping the mural in place. The controversy stems from whether the city should allow the mural to remain after it was painted without city permission, as well as what some see as political undertones; for example, the mural includes a rainbow, which some feel is associated with the LGBTQ+ community. Everett has said there is no hidden messages within the mural. "The rainbow is simply a rainbow," he said on social media. Some officials, including Meggen Sande and Steven Wasvick, both of whom are Planning and Zoning commissioners, said they have received, together, a few dozen calls against the mural. The city's mural code was changed in June 2023 to allow in addition to commercial sites murals to be placed on schools and churches in residential areas, while still requiring prior City Council approval. LORAIN, Ohio (AP) An armed man lying in wait on a dead-end street shot and wounded two Ohio police officers when they parked their patrol vehicles in an undeveloped industrial park to eat lunch Wednesday, and an officer driving into the scene in response to their call for help also was shot and seriously injured, officials said. The shooter was shot on scene and was pronounced deceased, said Michael Failing, the acting police chief in Lorain, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of Cleveland. The man had an arsenal of weapons with him, said Failing, who did not share further details on that and noted that the available information about the shooting was preliminary. James Welsh, the police chief in nearby Elyria whose department is investigating what happened, told reporters earlier that Lorain officers were ambushed by a man firing a high-powered rifle, and that police returned fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Welsh said it wasn't immediately clear if the suspect, a 28-year-old Lorain man whom Welsh and Failing did not name, was killed by the officers or shot himself. Welsh said the man is believed to have acted alone. Two of the officers suffered multiple gunshot wounds, Failing said. They were in critical condition after being flown to a trauma center, according to a statement issued by the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police hours after the shooting. The other officer was shot in the hand and was treated at a local medical facility, Failing said. He said the ambushed officers had just bought a pizza and parked side by side to eat in their vehicles. Responding officers loaded the wounded into patrol vehicles and rushed them to get medical care, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities shared no details Wednesday about what might have motivated the shooting. It's a tragic day in the city of Lorain, but we're a strong city, and we're going to move forward, Mayor Jack Bradley said. He said officers will be offered counseling to help process what happened. Bradley also said he'd spoken with Gov. Mike DeWine, who offered support. In a separate statement, the governor said the shooting reminds us that those who work in law enforcement risk their lives every day for the safety of their communities. As most of us in the United States are well aware, the US healthcare system is a nightmarish labyrinth of profit-seeking middlemen, kafkaesque corporate bureaucracy, and insurance-inflated costs. Adding to the noxious mix is the lucrative field of private equity a financial industry that earns its dough by buying private companies and selling their assets piecemeal, kind of like a junk dealer. Research has shown that when private equity gets involved in healthcare, patients experience worse care than they had before. Thats unfortunate, because private equity has rapidly increased its collection of facilities like nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and EMS agencies in recent years. And now theyre also coming for your teeth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New reporting by The Lever dove deep into the dental industry to shine light on the growing private equity problem vexing dental professionals, and the dire consequences facing their patients. Though few, if any, aspects of American healthcare are safe from the predatory practice, The Lever notes that dentistry is now their biggest target, with 161 private equity deals impacting the field in 2024 alone. Broadly, patients of these facilities experienced overdiagnosis, lower quality procedures, understaffing, and overly inflated bills compared to private-practice dentistry, as the private equity-owned firms skirt state laws in order to reduce costs thereby driving revenue. "A lot of small dental practices have been bought up by big corporations," Adelena Brannan, a dental hygienist of 12 years, told The Lever. Brannan described the practice as "McDonalds for teeth" where patients are treated as drive-thru customers, and their dental needs as orders to be filled as fast as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A prime example is the infamous corporation Kool Smiles, a childrens dental outfit boasting over 120 locations throughout the US. In 2018, Kool Smiles was forced to pay $24 million after the US federal government charged it was prescribing unnecessary surgical procedures on children in order to rake in Medicare payments. That rapacious pursuit for profit can have deadly consequences. In 2022, Kool Smiles dentists performed root canals and put crowns on six baby teeth belonging to a two-year-old, leading to his eventual death due to "brain damage caused by lack of oxygen." Another investigation highlighted in the reporting by KFF Health News and CBS found that private equity-controlled dental chains were pressing their patients to get costly dental implants, even when they werent medically necessary, in a practice that exposed patients to exorbitant bills, surgical complications, and ultimately deprived them of their natural teeth for life. In one case, a patient of the company ClearChoice told journalists that a "salesperson" not a dentist suggested she borrow money from family members to afford an implant. Before she received care, the patient said she ultimately had to sign up for a loan and pass a credit check. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Theyve sold a lot of [implants], and some of it unnecessarily, and too often done negligently, without having the dentists who are doing it have the necessary training and experience," Edwin Zinman, a dental malpractice attorney and former periodontist, told KFF. "Its for five simple letters: M-O-N-E-Y." More on healthcare: For-Profit Hospital Chain Reportedly Left Patient Lying in Pool of His Own Blood MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) The Morgan County Sheriffs Office said it arrested a man following a chase across county lines. MCSO said on July 21, agents with the Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a drug operation in Decatur near the intersection of 6th Ave SE and 11th Street SE when they made contact with the suspect, identified as 44-year-old James Michael Simmons. CLICK HERE for News 19s Interactive Radar Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When MCSO Agents tried to make contact with Simmons, the sheriffs office said he fled from the scene in his vehicle. MCSO said Agents chased Simmons as he traveled north on 6th Ave, eventually crossing the Hudson Memorial Bridge and entering Madison County. Morgan County 911 dispatch then alerted Huntsville Dispatch and advised them of the pursuit entering their jurisdiction. As Simmons traveled east on I-565, MCSO said everyone was met by a host of Huntsville City and Madison City police officers. The sheriffs office said Simmons continued to the intersection of I-565 and Research Park Blvd, where he did a U-turn and began traveling back west on I-565. While continuing through the City of Madison, MCSO said Simmons eventually ran from his vehicle near the intersection of Shelton Road and Mahan Road. After a brief foot chase, MCSO said Simmons tried to hide himself in the bushes of a nearby house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Marine Corps officer says Huntsville company fired him after disclosing PTSD With the help of the Huntsville Police Departments K9 Unit, the Madison Police Department and the North Alabama Drug Task Force, law enforcement took Simmons into custody. Simmons was transported to Huntsville Hospital for treatment due to the K9 apprehension, MCSO said. After his treatment, Simmons was transported to the Morgan County Jail, where he was charged with felony attempting to elude police, two counts of reckless driving, resisting arrest, driving with a revoked license, running a red light, no insurance and failure to register his vehicle, in addition to multiple felony warrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He remains in the Morgan County Jail without 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 WHNT.com. Measles has arrived in Santa Fe County, where an unvaccinated child under 10 contracted the virus during international travel, the New Mexico Department of Health reported Tuesday. The child was diagnosed at a Christus St. Vincent clinic over the weekend but is now home and recovering from the virus, hospital spokesperson Arturo Delgado wrote in an email Tuesday. "Our teams were proactive in their preparations in the event of a case and took all necessary precautions," Delgado wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, people may have been exposed to the latest case of measles at Cliffs Amusement Park in Albuquerque from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 17. Health officials advise anyone who was at the park that day to check their vaccination status and report any measles symptoms in the next three weeks such as a fever, cough, runny nose or rash to a health care provider. Every new case, including those that are a result of travel elsewhere, is a reminder measles is a highly contagious virus, Health Department Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miranda Durham said in a statement. The local case is the latest in a statewide outbreak that has been underway since February. So far, the state has seen 96 cases, including seven hospitalizations and one death. While the majority of measles cases have occurred in the southern part of the state, the disease has been creeping north, with recent cases in Sandoval and San Juan counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine known as the MMR vaccine are the "best defense" against the disease, Durham said. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's immunization schedule recommends a first dose of the vaccine around a child's first birthday, and the second when a child is 4 to 6 years old. The CDC also recommends the MMR vaccine for all adults who lack documentation of vaccination or lack evidence of immunity, with a few exceptions for pregnant, immunocompromised and some HIV-positive people. As measles cases have increased in New Mexico, so, too, have vaccination rates. As of Monday, more than 43,000 doses of the MMR vaccine had been administered since Feb. 1 close to double the number administered during the same period in 2024. Data from the state Department of Health shows 50% of Santa Fe County adults have received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. However, many adults aren't included in the data because they dont have their immunization records; they were vaccinated in another state or country without a data-sharing agreement with New Mexico; or they got the shots in New Mexico before 2016, when the states vaccine registry went into effect, state health officials have said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rates among school-aged children are much closer to the 95% threshold for communitywide immunity. The statewide MMR vaccination rate from the 2024-25 school year was 94.77% for kindergartners, Health Department data shows. By seventh grade, coverage grew to nearly 98%. Thankfully New Mexicans are responding to the call to get a measles, mumps and rubella ... vaccine," Durham said. DENVER (KDVR) Officials confirmed that an individual who was in Colorado from out of state has measles and are now notifying the public of potential measles exposure sites. Details about the new case were slim. The case was confirmed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Gunnison Department of Health and Human Services. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The virus is highly contagious, and anyone who is concerned or who was at the locations on the dates and times listed is asked to monitor for symptoms for 21 days. For the following possible exposure sites, symptoms could develop through Aug. 2 or Aug. 8. Location Date/time When symptoms may develop Taylor Park Trading Post 23044 Co Rd 742 Almont, CO 81210 Saturday, July 12 4 7 p.m. Through Aug. 2 Gunnison Valley Health Hospital 711 N. Taylor St. Gunnison, CO 81230 Wednesday, July 16 Thursday, July 17 3 p.m. 10 a.m. Through Aug. 8 As of June 18, Colorado had seen 16 measles cases and four hospitalizations. There have been no deaths. CDPHE told FOX31 in February that prior to 2025, the last confirmed case of measles in the state was reported in December 2023, and that most of the time, measles cases occur in Colorado after travel or in under-vaccinated communities. Health officials continue to encourage vaccinations, noting that vaccinating is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a characteristic rash that usually starts several days later on the face and spreads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you were at any of the listed locations during the exposure window and develop symptoms, immediately contact your health care provider by phone. If you do not have a provider, call an urgent care center or emergency department and explain that you have been exposed to measles. Calling ahead helps prevent additional exposures. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (KRON) The Valero Refinery in Benicia is anticipating flaring for several hours Wednesday due to a mechanical issue, according to officials. The Benicia Fire Department said at 8:15 a.m. that the refinery notified them that its flare stacks would be operating intermittently. The flaring is due to a mechanical issue with our nitrogen provider, Valero told KRON4 in a statement. Valero notified the California Governors Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) at 6:30 a.m. that the flaring is releasing about 500 pounds of sulfur dioxide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bay Area Air District said it is closely monitoring the flaring and investigating, responding to complaints, and documenting any violations of air quality regulations. No off-site health impacts are expected, according to Benicia FD. In April, Valero announced its intent to idle, restructure, or cease refining operations at the Benicia refinery in April next year. 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 KRON4. Medicaid cuts in the new tax and spending law could affect job stability for hundreds of thousands of health care workers. (Photo by Ariel Skelley/Getty Photos) As the federal government and states move to cut about $1 trillion over the next decade from Medicaid, researchers estimate annual impacts by 2034 of hundreds of thousands of jobs lost and billions less in state and local tax revenue. The research published this month in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA Health Forum looked at the long-term economic effects of the Medicaid provisions in President Donald Trumps signature tax and spending bill, which cuts the joint state-federal health insurance program for people with lower incomes or with disabilities and provides tax cuts that disproportionately benefit wealthier Americans. By 2034, the researchers estimated annual economic impacts to reach 302 000 jobs lost and $135.3 billion in reduced economic output, leading to $11.1 billion in annual state and local tax revenue reductions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coverage losses could generate $7.6 billion in medical debt, triggering a further $3.8 billion reduction in economic activity, the study said. As the single largest source of health coverage in the nation that covers 72 million people or a fifth of the U.S. population Medicaid is a key source of revenue to health care providers, as well as a significant funding stream for health facilities. Hospitals are major employers and drivers of local economies. In New York, for example, Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochuls office estimates that 65,000 jobs could be lost due to cuts in hospitals and community health centers, as well as a loss of $14.4 billion in hospital-related economic activity. Stateline reporter Shalina Chatlani can be reached at schatlani@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Whether you love traveling overseas or have a favorite vacation spot in the U.S., a travel credit card can allow you to earn valuable rewards and other perks. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card is a premium credit card with a steep annual fee, but it offers plenty of benefits and rewards that justify its cost. Learn more Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card Rates & fees, terms apply Annual fee $650 Welcome offer Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $6,000 in the first 6 months Card type(s) Travel, Hotel Ongoing Purchases APR 20.24%-29.24% Variable Recommended credit score Excellent/Good Rewards rate 6x Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy 3x points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines 2x points on all other eligible purchases with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card Benefits Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your card Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your card renewal month (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy; certain hotels have resort fees) Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status (limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account; benefit is not exclusive to cards offered by American Express) How to earn rewards As a cardmember, you can earn a higher rewards rate on qualifying hotel stays, restaurant meals, flights and all other purchases. And because you have the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, you're a Marriott Bonvoy member and qualify for complimentary Platinum Elite status. As a result, you can maximize your rewards. Combined with your credit card points, Marriott Bonvoy membership and Platinum Elite Status, you can earn up to 21 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels that participate in Marriott Bonvoy. For example, let's say you book a $1,000 stay at a participating hotel. You'd earn the following: Your credit card would give you six points per $1 spent, or 6,000 points. You'd earn up to 10 points per $1 spent for your Marriott Bonvoy membership, giving you 10,000 points. You'd earn up to five points per $1 spent with the 50% bonus on eligible stays, a benefit solely for Platinum Elite status members, giving you 5,000 points. Combined, you'd earn 21,000 points. Read more: Best rewards credit cards How to redeem rewards You can redeem your rewards in the following ways: Travel: You can use your points to book hotel stays at Marriott hotels and resorts, flights, cruises and rental car reservations. Transfers : You can transfer your points to loyalty program partners. Shop: With your points, you can purchase electronics, accessories, and gift cards. Charitable donations : You can donate your points as a cash gift to major charities. Bonvoy Moments: Use your points to book Marriott Bonvoy Moments, exclusive experiences like concerts or dining outings for Bonvoy members. How much your points are worth varies by redemption method, but various estimates value each point between 0.7 and 0.9 cents each. You'll get the most value from your points by redeeming them for hotel stays; the other redemption methods give you less value per point. Read more: See our picks for the best American Express credit cards Additional benefits As is typical for a premium travel card, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card provides robust benefits and perks: $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Get up to $25 per month in statement credits for eligible purchases made at restaurants. $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property credit: Up to $100 in property credits for stays at The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis when you book directly using a special rate for at least two nights. One free night: One free night at Marriott Bonvoy hotels per year. TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: Up to $120 fee credit for Global Entry and $85 fee credit for TSA PreCheck application fees; you can qualify for the fee every four-and-a-half years. Platinum Elite status: As a cardmember, you're granted Platinum Elite Status, which gives you 50% more points on Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays, potential free room upgrades, and other perks like free late checkout (when available) and a welcome gift upon arrival. Earned choice award: If you spend $60,000 or more in a calendar year, you can choose an additional award. Options include five nightly upgrades, a $1,000 bed discount from Marriott Retail Brands (allowing you to enjoy the famous Marriott beds at home), and a free night award. Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership: With your Priority Pass Select membership you can access over 1,200 airport lounges for you and up to two guests. Premium internet: You'll get complimentary premium internet service during any Marriott stay. As a cardmember, you can also take advantage of the following benefits and protections: Amex offers: With Amex Offers, you can earn statement credits by making purchases from partner retailers. For example, you can get 10% back on purchases made from Expedia, up to a maximum of $100. Baggage insurance plan*: If you're traveling via a common carrier like a major airline and your luggage is lost or stolen, your card can provide up to $2,000 of coverage for checked bags and up to a combined $3,000 for checked and carry-on bags. This coverage is on top of the insurance provided by the carrier. In some states, such as New York, different limits apply; in New York, the maximum coverage amount is $2,000 per bag or suitcase for each covered person, up to $10,000 combined for all covered persons per trip. Car rental loss and damage insurance: Decline the rental car company's coverage when you pick up the vehicle and use your card to pay for the fee to qualify for free car rental loss and damage insurance. This coverage protects you against damages or theft of a rental vehicle. It provides secondary coverage, meaning it only applies after using your personal insurance policy. Cell phone protection: New smartphones are pricey, so cell phone protection is a valuable perk. If you pay your phone bill with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, you're covered up to $800 per claim for phones that are damaged or stolen. The maximum number of claims is two per year. (Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.) Extended warranty protection: On items with warranties of five years or less, the card extends your warranty by one year. Premium Global Assist Hotline: If you need emergency cash, legal referrals, or help securing a prescription when traveling, the Premium Global Assist Hotline provides assistance 24/7. You may be responsible for any fees incurred by using third-party services. Purchase Protection: Use your card for eligible purchases, and American Express will back the item with purchase protection. This benefit protects you against damage, theft, or loss for up to 90 days from the purchase date. The maximum coverage amount is $10,000 per purchase, up to a maximum of $50,000 per calendar year. Return protection: If a seller won't accept a return within 90 days of the purchase, return protection allows you to return the item to American Express for a full refund. The maximum reimbursement amount is $300 per item, up to $1,000 per calendar year. Shoprunner membership: The card gives you a complimentary ShopRunner membership. As a Shoprunner member, you can qualify for free two-day shipping at qualifying stores. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to a covered reason, such as a serious illness, this coverage can reimburse you for some of your non-refundable fares and reservations. Trip delay insurance: If your round-trip booking is delayed by more than six hours, trip delay insurance can reimburse you for some covered expenses, such as meals or a hotel stay. *Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions, and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company. Who is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex best for? The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex is best for frequent travelers who are Marriott property devotees. Marriott runs 30 brands and nearly 8,700 properties worldwide, including well-known brands like Aloft, Sheraton, The Ritz-Carlton, and Westin. The card is less valuable if you aren't loyal to Marriott Properties; if you prefer more flexible hotel options, another card may be a better choice. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express card benefits No foreign transaction fees: Unlike many cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, so you won't pay an added fee to use your card outside of the U.S. (See rates and fees.) Includes travel insurance: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card includes a lengthy list of travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation or interruption coverage, which can help you recover your money if an emergency pops up during your trip. Attainable new cardmember offer: Some new cardmember offers require a substantial amount of spending within a short period, such as a requirement to spend at least $6,000 within three months. With the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, you have more time to meet the spending requirement; you have up to six months to meet the spending threshold and earn the welcome bonus points. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex potential drawbacks Steep annual fee: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card's annual fee is a whopping $650. Although that isn't unusual for a premium travel card, it may not be worth the cost if you aren't a Marriott loyalist. No promotional APR: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card doesn't have a promotional APR offer for purchases or balance transfers, so the regular APR will apply to all transactions. Limited point redemptions: Although you can redeem your points in various ways, Marriott hotel stays offer the highest value. Other redemption methods offer significantly less value for your points. How to make a Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card payment You can make a payment online or through the Amex mobile app. Or, you can call customer support: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express customer service info Customer service availability info: 24/7 Phone number: 1-800-528-4800 Marriott Bonboy Brilliant American Express login page Alternative cards to consider The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card is best for those who travel often and prefer to stay at one of Marriott's brand hotels. If you prefer more flexibility and options, consider these alternative cards: Learn more American Express Gold Card Rates & fees, terms apply Annual fee $325 Welcome offer You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months (welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer; apply to know if youre approved and find out your exact welcome offer with no credit score impact; if approved and you accept the card, your score may be impacted) Card type(s) Travel, Rewards Ongoing Purchases APR See Pay Over Time APR Recommended credit score Excellent/Good Rewards rate 4x Membership Rewards Points at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x) 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x) 3x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com 2x Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com 1x Membership Rewards points on all other eligible purchases Benefits Earn up to $10 in statement credits each month when you pay with your American Express Gold Card at Five Guys, Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, and Wine.com (enrollment required) Up to $100 in annual statement credits ($50 semi-annually) when you use your American Express Gold Card on eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants on the Resy app or Resy.com Up to $84 per year ($7/month) in statement credits after you enroll and pay with your American Express Gold Card at more than 9,000 U.S. Dunkin locations (enrollment is required to receive this benefit) Why we like it: The American Express Gold Card boasts valuable benefits and perks, but it has a more modest $325 annual fee (see rates and fees). With this card, you'll earn a higher rewards rate at restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and flights, and you'll earn one Membership Rewards point per $1 spent on all other purchases. If you don't travel often or like to price shop before choosing a hotel, this card gives you more options than the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card. Learn more Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Annual fee $395 Welcome offer Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months Card type(s) Travel Recommended credit score Excellent Rewards rate 10x miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel 2x miles on all other purchases Benefits $300 annual credit for travel bookings through Capital One Travel 10,000 annual bonus miles (worth $100 in travel spending; starts on your first account anniversary) Unlimited access for you and two guests to Capital One Lounges and 1,300+ more lounges through partner networks after enrollment Why we like it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel rewards card with a $395 annual fee. But unlike the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, which limits you to certain hotel brands, this card allows you to earn a higher rewards rate on accommodations and rental cars from multiple brands as long as you book them through Capital One Travel. Learn more IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card Annual fee $99 Welcome offer Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in first 3 months Card type(s) Travel Ongoing Purchases APR 19.99% - 28.49% Variable Recommended credit score Excellent/Good Rewards rate 26x points at IHG hotels and resorts 5x points on travel, dining, and at gas stations 3x points on all other purchases Benefits Earn a free night on each account anniversary, plus get a fourth night free when you redeem your points for a consecutive four-night stay at IHG properties Receive Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS statement credit of up to $120 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card Access perks including free upgrades, welcome amenities, and guaranteed room availability when you book at least 72 hours in advance Why we like it: The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, a co-branded credit card released by Chase, has a much more modest fee than the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card; its fee is just $99. With the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, you'll earn a higher rewards rate on all travel, dining, and gas, and the card has a valuable new cardmember welcome offer. This article was edited by Rebecca McCracken Editorial Disclosure: The information in this article has not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. All opinions belong solely to Yahoo Finance and are not those of any other entity. The details on financial products, including card rates and fees, are accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the banks website for the most current information. This site doesn't include all currently available offers. Credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product. It began in Nicole Noseks backyard. Nosek had convened a coterie of local homebuilders and architects for a picnic at her home in the wealthy Austin-area enclave of West Lake Hills. It was fall of 2021, and she and her husband, Luke Nosek, a venture capitalist who cofounded PayPal with Elon Musk and sits on SpaceXs board, had two years prior moved to Texas from California. The purpose of the gathering: figure out how to stop the states skyrocketing housing costs from getting worse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Texas, Nosek recognized the same factors that contributed to Californias unattainable housing market and spurred people and businesses to flee the Golden State: strict building and zoning regulations that make it difficult for cities to solve their housing crises and a not-in-my-backyard mentality among elected officials and homeowners that prevented change. We were looking around thinking we had just left nonsensical Bay Area housing policies, Nosek, 35, said in an interview with The Texas Tribune. Yet we arrived in Austin to find those same nonsensical policies. Over fajitas, Nosek and her guests began to brainstorm what they could push at the Texas Legislature that would pave the way to increase the states woefully lacking housing stock. The state needs hundreds of thousands more homes than it has to meet demand, according to at least one oft-cited estimate by the housing advocacy group Up For Growth. We know how it ends: in $1.3 million home prices, Nosek said. We had seen that story, and if we were going to stop that story from playing out, that was the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fast forward to this year, when a bipartisan coalition organized by Nosek, who founded and chairs the housing advocacy group Texans for Reasonable Solutions, played a crucial role in pushing state lawmakers to pass substantial changes aimed at blunting the states high housing costs. At the coalitions urging, legislators passed laws that made it harder for neighbors to stop new homes from being built and easier to build the kinds of homes, like townhomes and apartments, housing activists say the states biggest cities need more of in order to stave off a larger affordability crisis. Those new laws will make a difference in keeping Texass housing issues from snowballing into those seen in California and New York, said Alex Armlovich, senior housing policy analyst at the Niskanen Center, a libertarian think tank. Though California lawmakers have passed several bills in recent years to attack their housing costs, it will likely take years for reforms to be felt given the states exorbitant home prices and rents. High density housing in East Austin on Oct. 7, 2023. Credit: John Jordan/The Texas Tribune Meanwhile, Texas is getting ahead of the problem, Armlovich said. All of a sudden things started getting a little bit expensive in Texas, and they just brought the hammer down, Armlovich said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allies credit Nosek with capitalizing on the growing public appetite for something to be done about housing costs and translating it into a winnable agenda for lawmakers to pursue. By the time state lawmakers were ready to dedicate attention to tackling the states housing woes this year, Nosek had already spent the better part of four years laying the groundwork for them pulling together a slate of proposals from a broad bipartisan coalition of groups that, on their own, may not have worked together to tackle the housing problem. That coalition ranged from conservative think tank Texas Public Policy Foundation on the right to social justice group Texas Appleseed on the left. And on this issue, they were all rowing in the same direction. Because the coalition was diverse and robust, there might have been a lot of people that you wouldn't necessarily be on a call with normally, said Felicity Maxwell, a longtime Austin housing activist who leads the group Texans for Housing. But that was okay, because we had the same ideas and all wanted the same outcomes, and Nicole was the one who put that together and reinforced those relationships throughout the session. A YIMBY is born Nosek moved from Orange County to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2010 to attend the University of California Berkeley, where she later graduated with a bachelors in political science and rhetoric. There, she went on to work for congressional campaigns and for the marketing firm Ogilvy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even for a California native, living in the Bay Area was a shocking experience, exposing her to one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. While she worked as a paralegal, Nosek split a three-bedroom apartment with a family of three as well as a young tech worker. Even then, the rent ate up most of her paycheck. I felt lucky if I had $1,000 in my bank account at the end of each month, she said. Meanwhile, yes-in-my-backyard activists who organized as a backlash to NIMBYism began to push for policies to ease Californias housing crisis, advocating ways to increase housing density. Nosek joined their ranks, she said, and at one point did consulting work for YIMBY Action, a San Francisco-based housing advocacy group. Nosek began dating Luke in 2018, and the couple moved to the Austin area the following year amid a tech migration from California to Texas. She founded Texans for Reasonable Solutions in 2022, the year after she hosted the brainstorming picnic, and began the work of selling elected officials on the idea of reducing regulations and red tape in order to solve the states housing woes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nosek quickly gained a reputation as a brainy, passionate and deeply informed champion for housing policy reforms. I've got the bug, and I'll admit Nicole, before your work, this issue wasn't on my radar screen the way it should be, Glenn Hamer, who heads the Texas Association of Business, told Nosek during a January panel in Austin. Now it is at the top of the list, because I think nothing short of the American Dream is at stake here. Nosek made in-roads with the states Republican establishment, scoring meetings with Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Dan Patrick and then-House Speaker Dade Phelan and later, Dustin Burrows, the current speaker. Nosek also became a fairly sizable political donor. Since 2022, shes given nearly $160,000 to state lawmakers, Republicans and Democrats, and political action committees including Defend Rural Texas, the Texas Senate Leadership Fund and Texans for Lawsuit Reform. Texans for Reasonable Solutions PAC, almost exclusively funded by her, meanwhile has given more than $100,000 to state lawmakers. At the local level, Nosek gave $25,000 to a PAC supporting Kirk Watson in his 2022 Austin mayoral bid and $4,200 to Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. She has also donated to City Council candidates in Austin and Dallas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To opponents of housing reform, Nosek became somewhat of a bogeyman using her fortune to unduly upend their neighborhoods. Critics accuse Nosek of having a financial interest in seeking housing legislation given that her husband's venture capital firm Gigafund has invested in a modular home company that builds accessory dwelling units otherwise known as ADUs, casitas, mother-in-law suites or granny flats. Nosek said that the company only operates in California with no plans to expand to Texas. She also notes that a bill to make it easier to build ADUs wasn't among her group's legislative priorities. That bill never made it to the House floor for a vote. The fact that shes a Californian, too, has been an easy talking point for opponents to use against her. State Rep. Ramon Romero, a Fort Worth Democrat, derisively referred to Noseks group as Californians for Reasonable Solutions as House lawmakers debated a bill to allow smaller homes on smaller lots this year. Some of her eventual allies were initially skeptical about her because of her home-state credentials, Nosek said. Republican lawmakers tended to ease up when she couched her ideas in free-market terms, she said, and framed Californias high housing costs as a cautionary tale. I led with, here's how California destroyed their housing market, Nosek said. If you want to learn how to drive your middle class, young families and businesses out of your state, copy California in overregulating homes. Lessons learned The coalitions first attempt to push the Texas Legislature to adopt statewide housing reforms largely fizzled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Nosek and her housing allies managed to get lawmakers on board with a package of bills to allow homebuilders to more quickly obtain city building permits and to allow homes be built on smaller sized lots than many cities require. Those ideas found favor in the Senate, but largely died in the House. Only the permitting bill passed into law. At a coalition meeting after the bills failed, Nosek busted out a whiteboard to diagnose what went wrong. They reached a few conclusions. For one, they didnt meet with enough House lawmakers, particularly Democrats, so legislators didnt quite understand what the bills did or why they were needed. The coalition had also bet that the proposals highly technical nature would allow them to squeak through under the radar. That didnt work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that point, dealing with housing costs was largely alien to state lawmakers particularly because housing remained so much cheaper than other large states. To the extent that legislators dealt directly with cost-of-living matters, they did so by trying to rein in the states high property taxes. That changed between legislative sessions. The cost of living played a central role in the 2024 presidential campaign, propelling President Donald Trump back to the White House. In Texas, home prices and rents remained stubbornly high even as the states population growth slowed and the housing market cooled. State officials and legislators were catching on. Patrick and Phelan tasked lawmakers with studying ways to reduce housing costs before lawmakers returned to Austin this year. Glenn Hegar, the states former chief financial officer, issued a report last year that painted a dire picture of the states growing affordability crisis. The subtext: if people cant afford to buy a home here, the states economy could be imperiled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I did not want us to wait to become California, said state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Houston Republican who carried major housing bills this year and in 2023. You want to get the problem resolved before you become California. The second try Heading into this years Legislature, Nosek and allies realized they couldnt get their proposals through the Legislature quietly. They needed to demonstrate they had loud, broad support. Some 60 organizations including homebuilders, architects, chambers of commerce, environmental groups and others signed onto or endorsed the coalition ahead of the 2025 legislative session. At the same time, Texans for Reasonable Solutions shook up its own lobbying team and expanded its ranks. That coalition pounded the pavement, meeting regularly with lawmakers ahead of and throughout this years session, Nosek said. Nosek made the trek to lawmakers offices, too, often with her newborn in tow, she said. Nosek and her team deliberately crafted a slate of bills for this years session she said aimed to neutralize opposition from not-in-my-backyard activists, known pejoratively as NIMBYs. The bills that made it to Abbotts desk this year dont touch existing neighborhoods, where the thought of more homes going up nearby can kick up heavy opposition from existing homeowners. Instead, the slate focused on places where homes currently cant be built like retail and commercial corridors, vacant office buildings and large lots that dont already have homes on them. To court conservative lawmakers, Jose Melendez, campaign director of the Texas Public Policy Foundations Taxpayer Protection Project and one of Noseks chief allies, emphasized that the slate of bills would cut local regulations and red tape in order to let the free market address the housing problem. I not once changed my message in terms of saying, look, its very simple economics: we have all this demand, heres how we create more supply and we need to let the free market work, Melendez said. Having conservatives on board proved handy. During the session, a proposed North Texas housing development geared toward Muslims drew a storm of right-wing outrage. Talk brewed in conservative circles that bills to allow more housing backed by the coalition would allow similar developments elsewhere. In a bid to blunt opposition, Nosek and Melendez assembled talking points to debunk that rhetoric and circulated it among those lawmakers. It was Noseks idea that the messaging should come from TPPF, a conservative voice, Melendez said. That move was enough to peel off some lawmakers who might have otherwise helped sink the bills, Melendez said. For left-leaning lawmakers, Brennan Griffin, senior deputy director at Texas Appleseed, said the bills would help families lower on the income ladder access economic opportunity in the states major urban areas. The thing that we learned very quickly was that these issues were not at all familiar to many representatives, Griffin said. So a lot of representatives were just sort of like looking to the main people that they often look to. Many of the proposals involved overriding city zoning regulations that restrict what kinds of homes can be built and where. Democratic lawmakers, in particular, have been on the defensive as GOP-backed bills over the last decade have sapped authority away from cities, often run by Democrats. Indeed, city officials from the Dallas-Fort Worth region among other places testified against the bills in committee. However, Bennett Sandlin, executive director of the Texas Municipal League, said defeating the housing bills wasnt a top priority for their group at least partially because the bills didnt reach into existing neighborhoods and were somewhat limited in scope. It helped that at least one bill sought to give cities increased leeway to allow more housing, advocates said, and that some cities like Austin and Dallas had recently pursued such reforms at the local level. Attendees speak at a City Plan Commission meeting discussing housing on July 11, 2024. Credit: Azul Sordo for The Texas Tribune Still, the push encountered opposition. Some lawmakers werent convinced that allowing more homes to be built would, despite evidence to the contrary, help moderate housing costs. Some also didnt believe that superseding cities was the way to solve the states housing woes. Those concerns undergirded a push by Romero, the House Democrat from Fort Worth, to temporarily kill a bill to allow homes on smaller lots in some areas of the states biggest cities. Romero killed the bill on procedural grounds late in the legislative session before it could come before the Texas House for a vote. Nosek watched Romeros move play out on a livestream on a television at home during her sons birthday party over the Memorial Day weekend. She called Melendez, who was sitting in the House gallery. Initial disappointment turned to hope as the coalition with the help of Melendez and an expert in legislative procedure on Noseks lobbying team was able to set a path to revive the bill by getting it quickly amended, and bringing it back for a vote. State Rep. Gary Gates, a Richmond Republican who carried the bill in the House, as well as members of the coalition, including Texas Public Policy Foundation and Americans for Prosperity, pressed House leadership to let the bill return to the House floor. It didnt hurt their cause that the bill was among the lieutenant governors top legislative priorities. The gambit worked and the bill ultimately made it to Abbotts desk. It's great for business for developers, Romero said in an interview. What remains to be seen is, is it going to be good for neighborhoods? Whats next? Not everything housing advocates wanted made it over the line. A bill to automatically allow houses of worship to build homes on land they own died quietly. Another bill to let homeowners build accessory dwelling units in their backyards never came up for a vote in the Texas House. But much if not most of what advocates sought made it through. Even more esoteric ideas that werent among the coalitions top priorities like a technical bill to essentially allow smaller apartment buildings and thus a wider variety of housing stock made it through amid the push. It seems like lawmakers appetite for housing reforms hasnt been satisfied. Bettencourt and Gates said they want the accessory dwelling units bill to make a comeback in two years. Gates said he would like the state to abolish city requirements that new homes provide a certain amount of parking spots, which can drive up costs for property owners and tenants. Noseks coalition hasnt settled on what ideas it would like to pick up in two years. For now, Nosek said shes monitoring how the bills play out in the real world, including whether and how cities implement them. We're here to solve problems, Nosek said. Disclosure: Apple, Texans for Lawsuit Reform, Texas Appleseed, Texas Association of Business, Texas Municipal League and Texas Public Policy Foundation have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here. The lineup for The Texas Tribune Festival continues to grow! Be there when all-star leaders, innovators and newsmakers take the stage in downtown Austin, Nov. 1315. The newest additions include comedian, actor and writer John Mulaney; Dallas mayor Eric Johnson; U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota; New York Media Editor-at-Large Kara Swisher; and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso. Get your tickets today! TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase. Clarification, July 24, 2025 at 1:18 p.m. : This story was updated to reflect that Nosek's husband's venture capital firm has an investment stake in a company that builds accessory dwelling units. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Theyre toothy, theyre feisty, theyre screechy, and theyve just touched down in San Diego. The San Diego Zoo has officially welcomed two rare and remarkable new residents: a pair of Tasmanian devil brothers named Jetsam and Flotsam. The 3-year-old duo arrived from Aussie Ark, a leading conservation group in New South Wales, Australia, and are now settling into their new home in the zoos Australian Outback habitat. Already turning heads with their expressive growls and spirited personalities, the marsupial siblings offer visitors a chance to witness one of natures most elusive and endangered carnivoresup close and in action. Theyre most active early in the morning and again in the evenings during Nighttime Zoo hours, zoo officials shared. But if you swing by in the mid-afternoon, you might catch them napping or sunbathing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tasmanian devils might be best known to some as a whirlwind of teeth and snarls from Saturday morning cartoons, but the real creatures are far more fascinatingand in urgent need of protection. North City LIVE: Free outdoor concert series happening in San Marcos Found only on the island of Tasmania, these nocturnal scavengers play a vital role in keeping their ecosystem clean by consuming carrion. Unfortunately, theyve been severely impacted by Devil Facial Tumor Diseasea contagious and deadly illness that has decimated populations in the wild. But zoo officials say theres hope. Thanks to international collaborations like the one between Aussie Ark and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the global population is slowly beginning to recover. The arrival of Jetsam and Flotsam highlights these ongoing efforts, and gives zoo visitors the chance to learn firsthand about conservation in action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The San Diego Zoo has been home to Tasmanian devils on and off since the 1950s, and the new arrivals continue a decades-long legacy of species care, education, and awareness. So whether youre a longtime animal lover or just looking for a devilishly fun day out, consider swinging by the Australian Outback to meet the zoos newest residents. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Melania Trump is the quiet force behind her husbands apparent U-turn on Ukraine, the daughter of the presidents special envoy to Kyiv has said. Meaghan Mobbs, whose father Gen Keith Kellogg was appointed to lead efforts for peace, said the first lady had put pressure on Donald Trump to protect innocent Ukrainians from Vladimir Putins bombs. Ms Mobbs, who lives under near-daily bombardment in Kyiv, spoke to The Telegraph about the first ladys influence in an interview in which she also claimed the president was no longer listening to the pro-Russian wing of his Maga movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the first lady, Ms Mobbs said: [Mr Trump] deeply values her counsel. They have a very, open, conversational relationship and she is one of his closest advisers. People seem to forget that for some reason; maybe because shes so beautiful, or shes not frequently in Washington. Melania Trump is said to be one of Donald Trumps leading advisors - Michael M. Santiago/Getty Mr Trump recently hinted at his wifes influence on Ukraine after he announced a deal to deliver billions of dollars of weapons and sanction Russia. I go home, I tell the first lady: You know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation. And she said: Oh really? Another city was just hit, the president told journalists at the Oval Office. Ms Mobbs said Melania, who grew up near the Iron Curtain in former Yugoslavia, could now play a pivotal role if the president can secure a lasting peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think as we think about the future of Ukraine, or post war Ukraine, I think her influence could be very important, and I think that she could be and she should and could play a huge role. Asked if Mrs Trump could make an unannounced visit to Western Ukraine like Jill Biden, her predecessor, Ms Mobbs said: I think it would be fabulous. Ive always told people the best way to approach Melania around all of this is through fashion, through art, which is the other piece of it. Its both around the victimisation of children and women, which you feel so deeply about, and around this like the very, very beautiful and interesting, creative side of Ukraine that will be fascinating to her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Mobbs, a mother of two, runs the RT Weatherman Foundation humanitarian mission. She is an ardent supporter of Mr Trump and close to her father, Gen Kellogg, a retired lieutenant general. During the opening months of Mr Trumps presidency, Gen Kellogg appeared to have been frozen out of discussions about the future of Ukraine and Russia in favour of more pro-Putin forces inside the Maga wing of the Republican party. But he has recently seen his star rising, alongside other more hawkish officials including Marco Rubio, the secretary of state. Ms Mobbs said she now believes Mr Trump has turned his back on the Putin cheerleaders to embrace Ukraine, claiming that bad actors in conservative America no longer have the presidents ear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I shouldnt call them conservatives, I dont think theyre conservatives. But in a social media influencer network that was spreading misinformation and disinformation about Ukraine, I think, unfortunately, for a period of time, they had the presidents ear. I do think that is changing. Hours after Putin and Trump discussed terms for peace, Moscow send drones to bomb Kyiv - Gleb Garanich/Reuters Marjorie Taylor Greene, the firebrand Republican and Steve Bannon, a former chief strategist, are amongst those to have raised concerns about Mr Trumps $10bn deal with Nato allies to send US-made military equipment to Ukraine. Others, like Tucker Carlson, former Fox News anchor, have remained silent, but are known for their pro-Kremlin views and abilities to influence Mr Trumps decision making. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Mobbs argues that there is nothing more Maga or pro-American than sending weapons to Ukriane, especially if someone else picks up the bill. Under the deal brokered between Mr Trump and Nato, allies have promised to largely pay for missiles, Patriot air-defence systems and ammunition delivered to Kyiv by Washington. This is a major Maga win, right? And nothing is more Maga than getting someone else to pay for our stuff. She added: I think supporting Ukraine is the most pro-American thing you can do. And I think dad deeply believes that as well. Gen Kellogg has been shuttling back and forth to Kyiv, where Ms Mobbs resides, for months relaying Ukraines demands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours after Mr Trump and Putin discussed an end to the war over the telephone, Moscow launched a torrent of missiles and drones in the direction of the Ukrainian capital. Its not something to be flippant about, but I was a little bit like, Dad, you know how bad things are, lets be honest no peace here, the 38-year-old explained. Credit: Reuters Gen Kelloggs main strategy for convincing his boss to change tack was to explain that Mr Trump could one day end up on the wrong side of history, alongside the likes of Neville Chamberlain, the British prime minister best known for not standing up to Adolf Hitler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Repeating her fathers warnings to Mr Trump, Ms Mobbs said: Mr President, if you do not change course here, this is how history will remember you, and I know you do not want that. Just four days after Mr Trump and Mark Rutte, Natos secretary-general, announced the support deal in the Oval Office, Ukraine received its first Patriot air-defence battery and the interceptor missiles to be used alongside it. It would normally take months between promised deliveries and their emergence in the war-torn country. Mr Trumps administration has cut through all the bureaucratic bulls---, Ms Mobbs said. The rapidity of action in war is critical. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the president, by the way, sees this as part of a broader effort of signalling to Putin that hes overstepped, and unlike Biden, were going to move more aggressively and effectively. 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 Trump and his allies are desperate to move past the Jeffrey Epstein controversy but their own words and actions are having the opposite effect. Trumps decision to sue The Wall Street Journal over an Epstein-related story, his administrations choice to bar the Journal from the group of reporters who will cover the presidents upcoming trip to Scotland, and Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) eagerness to avoid a House vote on disclosure of Epstein material have all given fresh fuel to the story. The self-defeating aspect of this approach was typified by one social media post among the many that Trump has been issuing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday afternoon, the president lamented that the achievements of the first six months of his second term were being underplayed because all the Fake News wants to talk about is the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax! His post, of course, gave the media another reason to keep talking about it. The sense of creeping anxiety emanating from the White House over the Epstein matter is testament to the unusual discord it has caused within the Trump base. Trumps astonishing political comeback, from the nadir of the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, to winning the White House back last November, was enabled by the fierce loyalty of his Make America Great Again (MAGA) supporters and by a party that has grown ever-warier of crossing him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Epstein matter is an unusual exception. Republican elected officials have proven uncommonly willing to break with the president or at least create some discomfort for him. Even the Speaker has called for greater transparency around Epstein, though he has more recently tried to close a perceived gap between himself and Trump. But Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) called on social media on Tuesday for a vote on disclosing the so-called Epstein files exactly the thing Johnson has been moving to thwart. Norman said Republicans should vote on it before August recess and get it DONE!! Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) has also called for the material to be released, while Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) who has been to the fore of the effort is now in open defiance of Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massie noted in an X post Tuesday that he had introduced the only binding congressional legislation to get the Epstein material released, and in return, the attacks on me intensified. Massie included in his message a screenshot of a Trump social media attack on him, in which the president called him the worst Republican Congressman and A real loser! Massie, in turn, used that attack to try to juice fundraising support from his supporters so he could stay in the ring. The big picture, of course, is that the Speakers reluctance to hold a vote is giving more ammunition to those who suspect Trump has something to hide. Massie told reporters Tuesday morning that Johnson seemed to want his party colleagues to just sort of stick your head in the sand on the issue. It is a matter of public record that Trump and Epstein, the disgraced financier and sexual predator, were friendly acquaintances for years in the 1990s and early 2000s. Trump called Epstein a terrific guy in a 2002 New York Magazine profile and also noted Epsteins fondness for women on the younger side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its also known the two later fell out, though the precise reason has never been definitively established. Some reports cite a competitive battle over real estate, others contend Trump cut contact with Epstein after the latter behaved inappropriately at the future presidents Mar-a-Lago club. Trumps legal suit against The Wall Street Journal centers on the news organizations claim that a birthday message from Trump was included in an album to mark Epsteins 50th birthday in 2003. Trump insists the story, and alleged letter, are false. In terms of the politics of the overall matter, Trump is reaping what his allies sowed, at least in some regard. People around Trump stoked general suspicion of all the circumstances surrounding Epstein, who died apparently by suicide in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges. The current storm was set off by the contrast between comments made by Attorney General Pam Bondi in February during a Fox News interview where she said a list of Epsteins clients was sitting on my desk right now for review and an unsigned memo from the FBI and the Department of Justice earlier this month that contended no incriminating client list could be found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That set off real angst in the Trump base, with a number of MAGA-leaning commentators speaking out. The relatively meager polling that has been done in relation to Epstein underlines the political peril for the president. An Economist/YouGov poll released Tuesday found Americans disapproving of Trumps handling of the Epstein investigation by a huge margin. Fifty-six percent disapproved and just 22 percent approved. Significantly, exactly 1 in 4 Republicans disapproved of the presidents actions, and an additional 30 percent declined to express an opinion. Just 45 percent of Republicans approved of how Trump had handled the matter. Those are unusually bad figures for Trump among Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is nothing very surprising about the overwhelming disapproval of the presidents handling of the controversy among Democrats (only 7 percent approved), but it is also telling that independents came out against his actions by a massive 61 percent to 15 percent. For the moment, at least, Trump is stuck, and new developments are coming thick and fast. An announcement Tuesday from Bondis social media account saying Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche would meet with Ghislaine Maxwell set off its own new round of speculation as to possible ulterior motives. In 2022, Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years for conspiring in Epsteins abuse. Trump has tried to turn the page repeatedly. So far, unusually, it hasnt worked. The Memo is a reported column by Niall Stanage. Advertisement 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. If you rent a house or an apartment in the Memphis area, be careful how you pay your rent, because according to local housing attorneys, landlords are accusing residents of missing payments, which could ultimately lead to an eviction. Vanessa Bullock is the Director of Special Projects for West Tennessee Legal Services, Inc. She reached out to the WREG Investigators to sound the alarm about what could be a costly problem. We are starting to get a lot of calls from tenants who are being told that your rents not paid, explained Bullock. However, Bullock says once they investigate, they learn the tenants have in fact made their rent payments, despite the landlords claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve seen everything from making payments on Venmo or PayPal but not noting what the payment was for. Weve seen them giving blank money orders, blank checks that arent made out to anyone, and when it comes down to actually proving that you made your rental payment, theyre having trouble establishing that yes, thats what that check was for, Bullock explained. Bullock says some of the landlords doing this are referencing payments supposedly missed months ago. WREG asked Bullock if renters were being scammed or if the problems resulted from poor financial management and bookkeeping on the part of the landlord. Its a mixture of both to be honest, some people are scamming you and some people it is poor management, and theres a lot of turnover in property management, said Bullock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of the reason behind it, Bullock says risk for renters is the same. WREG asked Bullock, Whats your biggest concern about what you all are seeing? She replied, My biggest concern is that well get nearly to the end of the lease, the tenant will do something that will make the landlord mad, or the landlords will switch and a landlord will come in, a new property manager will come in and then all of a sudden theyve received an eviction notice saying they owe two months rent. Steps to Avoid Being Accused of Missing Rent Payments Document all payments, get receipts When paying by check or money order, make it out to the apartment complex or landlord Avoid paying in cash if possible Dont hand over blank checks or money orders Notate reason for payment in memo line When making electronic payments through tenant portals, download your receipts and all other important documents If using a rental drop box, record yourself placing payment in box Keep receipts as long as you live in property and after Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For elderly tenants, Bullock suggests they request assistance from their bank or financial institution with preparing money orders, etc. Renters with questions or those who need assistance can contact West Tennessee Legal Services at 901-471-8006, ext. 1250 or visit their website and complete an intake form. Theres also a Countywide Renters Rights Clinic scheduled for Saturday, August 23rd from 10:00a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Greenlaw Community Center. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 men accused of torturing a bitcoin millionaire for his password in NYC have been granted bail. The men held a 28-year-old business partner for 17 days in a rented $24 million townhouse, prosecutors say. The victim, an Italian citizen, was waterboarded during the ordeal, according to court papers. They can't pay the bail bondsman in crypto. But two cryptocurrency investors accused of torturing an Italian bitcoin millionaire for his password will be freed on $1 million bail and home confinement, a Manhattan judge ordered on Wednesday. "If you think the bondsman is going to take cryptocurrency, that would be a problem," New York Supreme Court Justice Gregory Carro told lawyers for the two men. "You are certainly going to have to show where it is coming from," the judge said of the money to be posted by William Duplessie, 33, of Miami, and John Woeltz, 37, of Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the bail agreement, both will wear ankle monitors. Duplessie will serve home confinement with family in Miami, and Woeltz will serve from a yet-determined address in New York. The men are accused of kidnapping and torturing a bitcoin millionaire from Italy for nearly three weeks in May inside a five-story luxury Manhattan townhouse. Victim Michael Carturan, 28, was a business partner and friend of his attackers. He was not only pistol-whipped, set on fire, and attacked with a small chainsaw he was also waterboarded, head butted, and hoisted up by his throat, all to get him to turn over his bitcoin password, prosecutors allege. On Wednesday, lead prosecutor Sarah Khan revealed that federal investigators seized a "manifesto" that she said detailed their plans to steal or "purge" the crypto of "foreigners" by slowly gaining their trust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They were trying to brainwash him for his cryptocurrency," Khan told the judge. (Carro is the same judge assigned to the state-level murder case of Luigi Mangione, accused in the December 2024 assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.) "It appears this is a use of intermittent violence to keep the victim unregulated," Khan said, explaining why Carturan appears to be smiling, using drugs, and engaging in sex in video and photographs from the time of his captivity. But the judge set bail after the defense argued that what prosecutors call torture was actually just "frat house" behavior. "It is a frat house, with essentially unlimited funds," Woeltz attorney Wayne Gosnell told the judge, saying that even Carturan used the words "hazing" in describing what was done to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are some credibility things here," agreed the judge. There are videos of Carturan smoking crack, taking part in a sex orgy, and being dragged around by a woman while wearing nothing but a BDSM collar, the defense has argued. Carturan was eager to go into business with the pair, and voluntarily submitted to being hazed, Duplessie defense attorney Sanford Talkin said in court Wednesday. "He was there because he wanted to be part of the lifestyle and it was quite a lifestyle," Talkin said, calling the period of alleged captivity "17 days of shenanigans." The bail and monitoring will be handled by bondsman Ira Judelson, whose clients have included Jay-Z, Conor McGregor, and Harvey Weinstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I can't take cryptocurrency as a form of payment anyway," Judelson laughed when told of the judge's ban on crypto. "They will have to convert the currency," he said. "There's no bail bondsman in the US to my knowledge that is set up to accept crypto though I'm sure I will some day, because it's here to stay." John Woeltz, left, and William Duplessie in criminal court in Manhattan. Kylie Cooper/REUTERS Khan has countered that the victim was subjected to humiliating and dangerous torture, and had asked Wednesday that the pair continue to be held without bail pending trial. "Our information is that the defendants would pour tequila in him, light him on fire, then put the fire out, sometimes by urinating on him," she said in court last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Caturan was bleeding from his head and face on May 23, when he ran barefoot from the house, desperate to find a police officer, prosecutors and police have said. Khan said in court last month that Caturan was coerced into assuming "various poses" to make it look in photographs as if he were not being forcibly held. "Victims of abuse are not always going to act in a way that we expect people to do," she told the judge. She suggested that Caturan's grand jury testimony which resulted in a ten-count indictment charging kidnapping, assault, and weapons possession was harrowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is not, in fact, the first time that these defendants have engaged in conduct that constitutes similar crimes, meaning people being held against their will," Khan also told the judge last month. "There are two other victims from two different occasions," she said. The Manhattan townhouse where prosecutors say a crypto millionaire from Italy was held and tortured for his bitcoin password. David Dee Delgado/REUTERS Court documents reveal what police seized from the eight-bedroom, six-floor property, which was being rented for more than $30,000 a month. The recovered items include a loaded gun, two knives, two hacksaws, a chainsaw, zip ties, plastic buckets, and a cattle prod, the document says. The list also includes items described as "pants with burn" and "wooden paddle with signatures." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't think there's anything crazy in here," Woeltz told the NYPD officers who arrested him at the townhouse shortly after Caturan fled. Prosecutors said last month that they were still going through 30 cellphones and laptops seized from the home, along with 30 crypto "storage devices." Khan said at last month's arraignment that so far, three recovered cellphones have revealed "additional evidence, including photos and messages that corroborate the intent here: Torture, humiliation, and control." The two defendants are eager to go to trial, their attorneys said Wednesday. They face up to life in prison if convicted of the top kidnapping charge. Read the original article on Business Insider DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Two men allegedly stole more than $17,000 worth of items from central Pennsylvania jewelers earlier this month by distracting employees, police say The two men 26-year-old Bobi Covacio and 32-year-old Bobi Rostas allegedly worked together July 7 to steal from Baral Jewelers, located at 5450 Derry Street in Harrisburg, and HBG Fine Jewelry, located in the Capital City Mall, court documents show. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Morning Weather Forecast According to Swatara Township Police, an employee from the Harrisburg store reported that the duo asked to look at several bracelets. As employees were distracted with helping out Covacio, police say Rostas was then able to take two bracelets and put them into his pocket. Afterward, the duo left the store, and an employee reported the theft to authorities. Shortly after that theft, the duo allegedly made their way to Capital City Mall to carry out a second theft. Court docs show the HBG Fine Jewelry kiosk owner contacted police and reported two men later identified to be Rostas and Covacio stole jewelry after using several distraction techniques. They were able to allegedly steal two 14-karat gold bracelets before leaving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four bracelets that were stolen were determined to have a combined value of $17,600, police said in court documents. Police were able to identify the men by looking at surveillance video, along with social media and immigration photos. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter Police said Rostas and Covacio are awaiting extradition back to Pennsylvania, where they will face their felony theft 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 ABC27. SPRINGFIELD The urgent need for mental health care and the number of providers willing to help are going in opposite directions but a new business in Springfield is aiming to change that, especially for the local immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities. In addition to seeing people in need of care now, Alpha Care Services also is recruiting and hiring psychiatrists, psychologists and a range of therapists and caseworkers to handle its growing number of patients. The wait for care across the Pioneer Valley can be up to six months, according to the companys chief operating officer, who said Alpha Care is striving for same-day service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cannot make people wait up to six months for help, said COO Maria Silva. By the time you get to that patient, the wait has been too long. Our goal is maintaining a no wait status. Im going to make sure anyone that calls today gets seen today virtually or in the office. Alpha Care opened in May and its staff of 12 already has a caseload of 80 patients, and the demand for care is growing. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the U.S. is in a mental health crisis" across all demographics by people of all ages, with high numbers among young people. Drug overdose and suicide remain leading causes of deaths associated with mental distress, the CDC notes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Silva said her ambition is to see patients immediately, hiring staff to keep that promise is an ongoing challenge. The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation notes that the state is at a critical crossroads, as growth in the behavioral health workforce and the talent pipeline is not keeping pace with the higher demand for services. Agencies in general are struggling to hire staff. Im seeing a trend where (providers) dont want to deal with seeing patients. They want to be supervisors. I received (calls from) four people who just got their licenses, and they dont want to see patients. I lost four potential therapists, said Silva. Alpha Care is trying to attract talent by boosting pay and benefits, and assigning staff to their areas of interest, such as teenagers, adults, families or couples. Silva said her organization will serve a wide swath of people from different backgrounds, with a focus on marginalized groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are put on the back burners because of language barriers or cultural diversity. We want to help people in general, but also the ones pushed to the side because agencies dont have that cultural diversity they need to provide services to these folks, said Silva. In Washington, D.C., Congressional Democrats are accusing Republicans of ending health insurance coverage for millions of Americans by approving billions of dollars in spending cuts at the behest of President Donald Trump. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates cuts of $1.02 trillion will bounce 10.5 million people from Medicaid and Childrens Health Insurance Program by 2034. Silva said shes already seeing people lose insurance coverage for mental health services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It hits you when you see the desperation of the patients and their families. We do not stop services. We have been doing some pro bono work, she said. Silva said she and her staff are also helping patients receive coverage through MassHealth and the Massachusetts Health Connector. Alpha caseworkers also are working with local employers to expand open enrollment periods if their employees have an emergency need. Learn more at alphacare413.com. Read the original article on MassLive. A Mercer County babysitter is facing charges after police say an 8-year-old she was supposed to be watching was found on a freeway. Cheyenne Brown, 26, of Sharon, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and reckless endangerment. In court records, police say they found an 8-year-old boy standing on a bridge along Shenango Valley Freeway July 6. He was placed in a cruiser and temporarily given to a relative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police learned of Brown through the childs mother and made contact with her. Brown was reportedly unaware of any missing children. She told police shed agreed to watch the boy and last saw him inside her home. Police used mapping services to see how long it wouldve taken the child to make it to the freeway. The distance was between .8 and 1 miles, which police say would take 17-22 minutes for the average person to walk. Since the child was with officers or the relative for about 37 minutes afterward, police say Brown had left the boy unsupervised for 54-59 minutes, at least. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to host French President Emmanuel Macron for a dinner meeting on Wednesday evening in Berlin. It will be Macron's first visit to Germany since Merz's government took office on May 6. Just a day after his election, Merz travelled to Paris to signal a "new start" in Franco-German relations, which had cooled significantly under former chancellor Olaf Scholz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both leaders now aim to build on that momentum and deepen cooperation "at all levels." Key topics on the agenda include efforts to strengthen Europe's independence from the United States and discussions on a potential European nuclear shield a concept that Merz's predecessor Scholz had reportedly viewed with deep scepticism. However, key differences remain between the two sides. Paris is pushing for joint European debt to boost the continent's defence industry a proposal Berlin rejects. France also supports the continued use and promotion of nuclear energy, while Germany has phased it out entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Disagreements persist in joint arms development as well. On the FCAS air combat system a joint project with Spain the two countries still have differing views over the respective involvement. From the French perspective, the goal of Wednesday's working dinner is to prepare for the upcoming Franco-German ministerial council meeting a joint Cabinet meeting scheduled to take place in France at the end of August. The focus is expected to be on European competitiveness, security, and defence, as well as economic and social reform. The dinner will take place at Villa Borsig, a lakeside residence on Lake Tegel that once belonged to the industrial Borsig family and now serves as a guest house of the German Foreign Office. An El Paso County judge has ruled additional houses can be built north of the Air Force Academy in Hay Creek Valley, siding against a resident who had tried to hold the county to its own rule that limits development on dead-end roads. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have emphasized the importance of the Franco-German partnership in challenging global political times. "We stand on the foundation of a close Franco-German friendship that has developed over decades. And we both feel a great obligation to continue working on this in the coming years," Merz said at the start of Macron's working visit to Berlin on Wednesday evening. The Franco-German relationship is also personally very important to him, stressed Merz, who welcomed his guest to Berlin in French. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merz pointed out that more than half of his Cabinet had already made inaugural visits to France since the government took office in early May. Merz said they would discuss current trade policy, including the tariff dispute with the United States, as well as issues of foreign and security policy. Macron stressed regarding the tariff issue that they had already been in constant communication in recent days to coordinate a response to US President Donald Trump's tariff offensive. According to Macron, Italy and the European Commission were also involved. They share the desire to provide stability and have tariffs as low as possible, he said, adding that at the same time, they want to be respected as partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Macron highlighted the personal friendship between him and Merz, as well as between their two countries. The Franco-German relationship and the shared will to advance both bilateral and European agendas are essential, said the French president. "Vielen Dank, Friedrich," he said at the end of his statement, German for "Thank you very much, Friedrich." It was Macron's first visit to Germany since Merz's government took office on May 6. Just a day after his election, Merz travelled to Paris to signal a "new start" in Franco-German relations, which had cooled significantly under former chancellor Olaf Scholz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, key differences remain between the two sides. Paris is pushing for joint European debt to boost the continent's defence industry - a proposal Berlin rejects. France also supports the continued use and promotion of nuclear energy, while Germany has phased it out entirely. Disagreements persist in joint arms development as well. On the FCAS air combat system - a joint project with Spain - the two countries still have differing views over the respective involvement. The meeting took place at Villa Borsig, a residence on Lake Tegel on the north-western outskirts of Berlin that once belonged to the industrial Borsig family and now serves as a guest house of the German Foreign Office. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have emphasized the importance of the Franco-German partnership in challenging global political times. Following his inaugural visit to Paris in May, Merz hosted the French president for a dinner at the lakeside Villa Borsig outside Berlin on Wednesday evening. "We stand on the foundation of a close Franco-German friendship that has developed over decades. And we both feel a great obligation to continue working on this in the coming years," Merz said at the start of Macron's working visit to Berlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Franco-German relationship is also personally very important to him, stressed Merz, who welcomed his guest to Berlin in French. Merz pointed out that more than half of his Cabinet had already made inaugural visits to France since the government took office in early May. Merz said they would discuss current trade policy, including the tariff dispute with the United States, as well as issues of foreign and security policy. Macron stressed regarding the tariff issue that they had already been in constant communication in recent days to coordinate a response to US President Donald Trump's tariff offensive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Macron, Italy and the European Commission were also involved. They share the desire to provide stability and have tariffs as low as possible, he said, adding that at the same time, they want to be respected as partners. Macron highlighted the personal friendship between him and Merz, as well as between their two countries. The Franco-German relationship and the shared will to advance both bilateral and European agendas are essential, said the French president. "Vielen Dank, Friedrich," he said at the end of his statement, German for "Thank you very much, Friedrich." It was Macron's first visit to Germany since Merz's government took office on May 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just a day after his election, Merz travelled to Paris to signal a "fresh start" in Franco-German relations, which had cooled significantly under former chancellor Olaf Scholz. Both now want to continue working on this and deepen their cooperation at all levels. To this end, a joint Cabinet meeting is to be held in late August in Toulon, southern France. However, key differences remain between the two sides. Paris is pushing for joint European debt to boost the continent's defence industry - a proposal Berlin rejects. France also supports the continued use and promotion of nuclear energy, while Germany has phased it out entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also issues with the trade agreement between the EU and the Latin American Mercosur countries. Disagreements persist in joint arms development as well. On the FCAS air combat system - a joint project with Spain - the two countries still have differing views over the respective involvement. The meeting took place at Villa Borsig, a residence on Lake Tegel on the north-western outskirts of Berlin that once belonged to the industrial Borsig family and now serves as a guest house of the German Foreign Office. Metropolitan Council chair plans to retire next month originally appeared on Bring Me The News. The chair of the Metropolitan Council is retiring next month, paving the way for a new leader of the organization overseeing Twin Cities transportation and infrastructure. Charlie Zelle was appointed chair of the 17-member Met Council at the beginning of 2020. During his tenure, the 70-year-old has helmed the regional policy-making board through Green Line light-rail extension planning and other Metro Transit challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who appointed Zelle, and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan announced Zelle's retirement, effective Sept. 10, on Tuesday. Chair Zelles years of public service have made a lasting impact on not only the Met Council but public transportation and infrastructure across Minnesota, Walz said in a statement. His service has positioned the council and our state for continued success and innovation." Before he joined the Met Council, Zelle served as a Minnesota Department of Transportation commissioner and president and CEO of Jefferson Lines bus service. Met Council Chair Charlie ZelleMetropolitan Council An interim leader of the Met Council will be identified in the coming months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Met Council oversees regional planning and development for the seven-county metro area, including land use, wastewater, parks and affordable housing. The Met Council recently awarded more than $2.4 million in grants for the remediation of contaminated sites in Inver Grove Heights, Minneapolis, Richfield, Saint Paul, and South St. Paul. Related: These were the most-visited regional parks in the Twin Cities in 2024 This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared. Construction workers in an undated 2020 photo, working on the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project. The project aims to pipe clean water to the eastern Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the City of Gallup from the San Juan river. (Courtesy of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation) According to federal data, compared with white households, Native American households are 19 times more likely to lack indoor plumbing. That figure jumps significantly for Navajo residents, who are 67 times more likely than other Americans to live without access to running water. Citing this data, U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) on Tuesday announced he and colleagues from Colorado, Democratic U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, had introduced the Tribal Access to Clean Water Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly half of Native American households lack access to clean and reliable water supplies. That is completely unacceptable, Heinrich said in a statement. By addressing a significant backlog of infrastructure projects and removing barriers to federal programs that provide technical and financial assistance to Tribes, this legislation is an important step toward delivering clean drinking water to all families in Indian Country. The bills components include authorizing the United States Department of Agriculture to make grants and loans for technical and financial assistance, as well as for construction, and lays specific amounts over the next five years, including: increased funding authorizations for USDAs Rural Development Community Facilities Grant and Loan Program by $100 million per year for five years; Increasing funding authorizations for existing programs of the Indian Health Service for water and sanitation facilities construction; and authorizing $90 million over five years for the Bureau of Reclamations existing Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program. Heinrich previously introduced the bill in 2021 with Bennet. Heinrich, Bennet and Hickenlooper also backed billions for tribal water projects in that years infrastructure package. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement of support for the legislation, Anne Castle, co-founder of the initiative on Universal Access to Clean Water for Tribal Communities noted that some of the starkest examples of the public health impacts from not having clean, running water in the home are right in our backyards, such as higher incidence of respiratory disease, gastrointestinal infections, diabetes, and cancer. Water is a sacred resource given to us to protect, Santa Ana Pueblo Gob. Myron Armijo said in a statement. It is of the utmost importance that Tribes have access to clean water not only for personal consumption and economic development but also for cultural purposes. Many tribes in the Southwest rely on access to clean water to carry on our culture and traditions. Source New Mexico is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Source New Mexico maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Julia Goldberg for questions: info@sourcenm.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Mayor Tim Keller, center, at the signing of an executive order on Monday, July 21, 2025. (Courtesy of El Centro de Igualdad y Derechos) The mayor of New Mexicos largest city signed an executive order this week reaffirming Albuquerques position as an immigrant-friendly city, as some members of the city council said they would push further protections in city ordinances later this year. In a statement during the executive order signing ceremony Monday, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said federal legislation and enforcement practices threaten due process and spread fear. A group of U.S. House Democrats on Tuesday similarly blasted President Donald Trumps administration for what they called cruelty and lawlessness in carrying out mass deportations of migrants without legal status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kellers order followed weekend protests outside of an Albuquerque Walmart where Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents recently tased and arrested Deivi Jose Molina-Pena, a 33-year-old who according to friends and family interviews with Source NM lived in the United States legally under Temporary Protected Status after leaving Venezuela two years ago. In the face of federal actions and proposals that undermine human rights and respect, sow fear and destabilization among our families, and damage our economy and threaten our public safety, the City of Albuquerque reaffirms its moral, legal and policy duty to uphold civil rights, public safety and serve all residents with dignity, Keller said during the event. Albuquerques new order expands the citys 2018 Immigrant-Friendly Resolution, which states that no city entity assists in federal civil immigration enforcement, including raids, detentions or information-sharing unless legally required by a court. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security at the end of May included Bernalillo and 22 other New Mexico counties on a list of so-called sanctuary jurisdictions, an April executive order directive by President Trump. Kellers executive order states that ICE must clearly identify its officers and avoid harmful or disruptive detainment tactics in public spaces. Federal legislation recently introduced by Michigan U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin would prohibit ICE from wearing face masks and require them to identify themselves. New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez recently signed onto a letter signed by more than 20 AGs nationwide urging them to pass the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kellers order also: requires city staff to report any U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity at public facilities; directs the city attorney to file public records requests to federal immigration officials and share findings with the public; and allows the Albuquerque Police Department to confirm ICE activity when requested by the public. If we get [an] inquiry from the media or the public, APD dispatchers can call a designated person at ICE and they could confirm to us whether they are doing some sort of immigration operation, police spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos told Source of the new provision. But APD has some limitations, he said. We dont know ahead of time if theyre doing some sort of operation, or what their operations are, Gallegos said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, New Mexico State Police told Source NM it did not have any additional information on the ICE arrest of Molina-Pena. Four members of the Albuquerque City Council also issued statements saying they plan to introduce further ordinances that will strengthen protections for immigrant communities after the councils return from July hiatus. Three other city councilors issued a statement denouncing the new executive order and describing it as nothing more than dangerous political theater. Keller, who is running for reelection for his third term, also faced criticism from other mayoral candidates following the announcement, as well as the state Republican party. In a statement on social media, Amy Barela, the chairwomen of the Republican Party of New Mexico, condemned the executive order, saying that Keller has chosen to prioritize illegal immigrants over the federal law enforcement officers that protect and serve our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigrant advocates, however, say Kellers executive order is a step in the right direction. As New Mexicans struggle to pay rent and put food on the table, the federal government is slashing Medicaid, stripping millions of their health care, and pouring billions into a terrifying vision of mass deportation, Fabiola Landeros, a community organizer with immigrant rights nonprofit El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, said in a statement. Family separation and ICEs tactics are not only inhumane and un-Burqueno theyre bad economic policy. Targeting the workers, small business owners, and consumers who power our economy will drive up prices for everyone. Mayor Kellers executive order shows that holding the line is not enough; El CENTRO will continue organizing tirelessly at all levels of government to expand protections for our communities. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Jul. 22By Sydney Kashiwagi, Star Tribune (TNS) The battle over whether the Trump administration should release files on deceased sexual predator Jeffery Epstein could become a political problem for at least one member of Minnesota's GOP delegation: Michelle Fischbach. House Speaker Mike Johnson is shutting the House down early for its August recess to head off a Democratic push to vote on the Epstein case, which has become a political liability for President Trump. But Fischbach, who fended off a tough primary challenge last year in her deep red western Minnesota district, has already had to vote multiple times to block the release of the files due to her membership on the House Rules Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move has angered some of the right-wing activist base that's dominated Republican politics in her district, including conservative group Action 4 Liberty (A4L). They've warned that the Epstein issue could be "the straw that breaks the camel's back" for the base. "Congress' participation in the Epstein cover-up may come back to haunt them," A4L said in a post about Fischbach's recent votes, calling for the congresswoman to face a primary challenge. Fischbach's office did not respond to requests for comment, both in person and through her office, and took to social media to blame Democrats, arguing they had several years to release the Epstein files under former President Joe Biden. Loyal followers of President Donald Trump had seen an opening in his second term to get answers on the powerful individuals that may have been affiliated with Epstein, who allegedly kept a client list. But the Trump administration and now the Republican-controlled Congress has blocked attempts to force the federal government to release the Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats have seen an opportunity to force Republicans on the record on Epstein, pushing amendments to require the release of the files. Fischbach joined all but one Republican on the Rules Committee last Monday in voting down a Democratic amendment that would require the attorney general to release the Epstein files. The next day, she and the Republican conference blocked a procedural move from Democrats that would have brought the amendment up for a vote in front of the full Congress. Fischbach and the rest of the Republicans on the committee also blocked a bill that would release the Epstein files. Instead, Republicans voted for a non-binding resolution they put together that similarly calls for the federal government's release of the files but in a non-enforceable way. Democrats on the committee decried the GOP resolution as nothing more than a "glorified press release" that would allow Republicans to take cover on the issue if it ever came up for a vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans were eager this week to put the issue behind them in the hopes that Trump, who's asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to release grand jury testimony on Epstein, would take the matter out of their hands by the time they return from August recess in September. Johnson won't bring the GOP resolution to the House floor before lawmakers leave for August recess at the end of the week. And he cancelled all scheduled votes after Wednesday so lawmakers could begin recess earlier than expected to duck having to play "political games" on the Epstein drama, he said. Fischbach said after her Monday vote that Democrats were playing "games" for attaching the amendment to a larger legislative package. Though she handily won her Republican primary and general election last year, Fischbach's GOP opponent, Steve Boyd, blocked her from securing the party's endorsement. He was backed by the conservative grassroots base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boyd declined to comment on Fischbach's recent votes, but didn't rule out running against her in 2026. "I haven't made any final decisions on whether I will run again," Boyd said in a text message. Seventh District Republicans have had to wrestle with a conservative base that's challenged both Fischbach and the former leadership of the local party. Earlier this year, grassroots activists from Otter Tail County helped propel now Congressional District Seven Chair Bret Bussman to victory, who ousted former chair Craig Bishop, a Fischbach staffer. Action 4 Liberty marked Bussman's victory as a win for the grassroots base giving him a "major opportunity to restore fairness to the process and expand the conservative, MAGA base," they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But asked to comment on Fischbach's recent votes, Bussman initially declined before he spoke with the congresswoman first. He later provided a statement to the Minnesota Star Tribune, defending Fischbach and echoing the congresswoman and other Republicans' defense of the Epstein votes. "Unlike the Democrats' half-baked amendment, the Republican resolution prioritizes protecting the victims of Epstein's disgusting acts," Bussman wrote. "Rep. Fischbach and other Republicans are committed to transparency and holding the government accountable, as well as ensuring no victims are hurt further as they seek the truth," Bussman added. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently announced a new kind of lake trout record that was set on Lake Michigan. They say the laker, which was caught in Wisconsin waters back in 2023, was around 39 years old, making it the oldest fish in the history of the agencys mass marking program. The angler, who caught the trout that May, had been fishing from a boat near Sheboygan Reef. He noticed the coded wire tag placed in its nose and notified the USFWS. Records show the fish had been stocked on the same reef back in July 1985. This means that nearly three decades later, the lake trout was caught not far from where it was introduced a place where native lakers historically spawned. Before that, the fish had hatched from an egg at Northern Wisconsins Iron River National Fish Hatchery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lake trout are a slow-growing species, and Midwestern anglers and biologists have recovered many lakers up to 20 years old or even older. Lake trout are known to be long-lived and we do encounter fish we know to be more than 20 or 30 years old, USFWS fisheries biologist Matthew Kornis told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel of the discovery. But this one set our record. The stocking and coded tagging of lake trout (plus salmon and other trout species) is still an ongoing part of the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program. Stocking helps replenish populations, while tagging helps with monitoring stocks and improving the fishery. Small, coded tags attached to a fishs nose have become the new norm for marking salmonids. This way, when the fish is caught by an angler, biologists can get a rough idea of where it roamed, how fast it grew, its general health, and so on. Read Next: Record Lake Trout Caught in Idaho Is a Sign of a Fishery Reborn Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All this stocking and tracking seems to have paid off throughout much of the Great Lakes. In Illinois, for example, biologists are seeing higher numbers of naturally reproducing laker trout. The state still stocks lakers, but theyve seen in recent years that up to 70 percent of the overall population were spawned naturally (and not in a hatchery). Large-scale fish marking allows us to better track migratory patterns and population changes and improve conservation practices, says U.S. Representative Tim Walberg (R-MI), who introduced a bill in March to modernize the GLMMP. By implementing the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program, we are ensuring that we have the tools to better understand and protect the long-term health of our fisheries. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) President Donald Trump has approved Michigans request for a disaster declaration to help communities recover from the large ice storm that struck northern Michigan earlier this year. The State of Michigan says that the declaration opens the path for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance to provide aid to Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Kalkaska, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle Counties and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. With this initial support, we can help communities recover costs associated with cleanup efforts. I want to thank the president and our congressional delegation for supporting our request, and I look forward to collaborating further on much-needed additional resources, said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in a news release sent to 6 News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On May 16, Whitmer submitted a formal request for a major disaster declaration to help the region recover from the storm that struck in late March. FEMA reports that Darrin Ricketts has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for the recovery operation. This federal declaration is a crucial next step. It allows us to continue supporting our partners through long-term recovery, said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, 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. Michigan Supreme Court / Hall of Justice | Photo by Jon King A legal dispute over large online betting winnings can move forward after the Michigan Supreme Court ruled unanimously Tuesday that a patron of an online gambling venue can sue the holder of a gambling license on common-law claims for breach of contract, conversion and fraud. In a unanimous opinion written by Justice Brian Zahra, the high court in Davis v. BetMGM ruled that the Michigan Legislature did not intend for the Lawful Internet Gambling Act to prevent litigants from bringing common-law claims related to gambling disputes between a patron and a gambling licensee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means two lower court decisions from the Michigan Court of Appeals and the Wayne County Circuit Court were overturned, and the lower court has jurisdiction to hear the case as it moves forward. The case dealt with a large winnings pot earned by a BetMGM patron, Jacqueline Davis, which the player withdrew in the amount of $100,000. When that happened, BetMGM suspended her account and blocked her from accessing the remaining sum, which was around $3.2 million. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Investigators for BetMGM determined that the players money was erroneously credited and closed the account. Davis sued on fraud and breach of contract grounds, but the Wayne Circuit Court ruled that it lacked the subject matter jurisdiction to hear the case. The judge noted that was because the Lawful Internet Gambling Act preempted the claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A complaint was filed to the Michigan Gaming Control Board while the appeal was pending, but the Michigan Court of Appeals in a published 2-1 decision affirmed the lower court. The high court was asked to determine whether the court or the board had jurisdiction. Zahra wrote that it did, because aside from the legislative intent factor, common-law claims, like breach of contract complaint, were not so inconsistent with the Lawful Internet Gambling Act that they could be preempted by the law. Simply because the Michigan Gaming Control Board may take corrective measures on some matters under the [act] does not mean that the [board] is required to take corrective measures on all matters to resolve a dispute between a patron and licensee, Zahra added. Further, that the [board] may act does not indicate that a complaint filed with the [board] constitutes the exclusive remedy for an aggrieved consumer of online gambling activity. Justice Noah Hood did not participate because the case was heard for oral arguments before he was appointed to the bench this year. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A medical emergency thousands of feet in the air forced a plane to make an unexpected landing in Sioux Falls. Steve Bombart and his wife were flying home to North Carolina Monday when Steve said he noticed something wasnt right. National ad on privatized USPS concerns airs in SD I just stopped feeling well, Steve Bombart said. His wife, Fran, was sitting next to him on the flight. She said his face looked blank, and he couldnt talk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A friend we were traveling with was a physician, and he took one look at him and jumped up and said this plane needs to land, Fran Bombart said. Thats when the pilot decided to make an emergency landing in Sioux Falls. Emergency crews rushed Steve to Sanford Health Hospital. Steve said he vaguely remembers the ride there. I think I was too afraid to be scared, Steve said. I was concerned like, why are they taking me in an ambulance to the hospital? Doctors determined Steve was having a stroke, and he needed immediate medical care. Doctors gave him medication to break up a blood clot. The clot buster medication aims to dissolve blood clots in the brain and restore the blood flow back to the area that was deprived from blood flow, aiming to reverse the stroke symptoms, Sanford neurologist Dr. Ahmed Abd Elazim said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just a day later, Steve said hes feeling much better. He said he owes it to the air and Sanford medical crews that stepped in. I was surprised and amazed how many people were in there waiting for me, which was very positive, Steve said. It made me think of how good of a hospital this is. As much as the Bombarts have tried making the best of their stay here in Sioux Falls, they are looking forward to returning home soon. But until then, theyre grateful knowing theyre in good hands. He was back as if nothing had ever happened. I have to tell you, it was amazing, Fran said. You guys are great. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doctors said as long as Steve continues to improve, he could be discharged 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 KELOLAND.com. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) Founder and Executive Director of Focus Forward Jamorrey Gosha stopped by WRBL News 3 and spoke with anchor Teresa Whitaker about his 3-day transformative event in Alabama. Gosha is a minister and a community organizer who currently lives in Washington, D.C. and works on Capitol Hill. He has a vision for community worship and looks to coordinate events catered to the public through his Focus Forward. Focus Forward is a 3-day empowerment gathering and the vision is to of course, amid our busy lives, to draw the community together for a time of worship, service and impact, Gosha said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Focus Forward event will consist of the Fit to Focus Community Prayer walk at 6 p.m. and the Serve Night at 7:00 p.m., with both taking place at the Troy University Riverfront Campus. On Friday, Christmas in July will be held at 11 a.m. at the Troy University-Phoenix City Campus and Night of Worship will take place 7 p.m. at the Courtyard Marriott Phenix City/Riverfront. Then the Black Tie Affair is set for Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at the Courtyard Marriott Phenix City/Riverfront. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MIDLAND COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- During a special session for Midland County Commissioners Court, county leaders voted to approve the plat for Greenwood Country Estates, section 7, located at SCR 1054 and ECR 107. According to city officials in a press release, the approval came after a thorough legal review, which determined that the county is required by Texas law to approve the subdivision plats that meet all the statutory requirements. The decision followed last weeks unanimous vote by commissioners to reject the plat due to the ongoing concerns about the water. Officials stated: This decision follows last weeks unanimous vote by the Court to reject the application due to ongoing concerns about Park Water, the utility provider listed in the developers submission. Park Water has recently been under scrutiny for service interruptions and water quality issues affecting current residents in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the initial vote was to deny the plat, Midland County later consulted with legal counsel and confirmed that under the Texas Local Government Code (Local Gov.. Title 7, Section 232), counties must approve plat applications that have all required documentation. Officials stated that one of those key requirements is a letter from a water service provider confirming service to the proposed development. According to the Midland County press release, Greenwood County Estates Developers LLC, the developer of the new subdivision, did provide the required letter from Park Water, meaning the application is legally compliant. The release reads, while public concerns about Park Waters reliability are valid, state law does not permit counties to reject plats solely based on those operational concerns. Midland County Judge Terry Johnson echoed that sentiment and wrote: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vote today does not reflect a lack of concern or support for residents dealing with water issuesOur hands are tied by state statute. We are required to approve compliant plat applications, even as we continue to advocate for better oversight and stronger infrastructure. Commissioner Steven Villela for Precinct 3 also sent a press release clarifying the decision that was made and the legal obligation behind it. My responsibility is to serve the people of Midland County with transparency, integrity, and accountability. I understand and share the communitys concerns about growth, infrastructure strain, water availability, and long-term quality of life. However, under the Texas Local Government Code, counties are granted very limited authority when it comes to approving or denying subdivision platsWhen I took office, I swore an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States, the Texas Constitution, and the laws of this Nation and of this State. That means I must follow the law as it is, not as I wish it were. You can read the full statement from Villela here: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Statement-from-Commissioner-Steven-Villela-on-Greenwood-Plat-Approval-1Download Midland County leaders emphasized that they will continue working with residents, utility regulators, and state partners to ensure all water providers operate safely, reliably, and in the public interest. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, informed, and vocal. Their concerns are heard and valued, and the County remains an active advocate for long-term improvements, Midland County wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. MIDVALE, Utah (ABC4) A Midvale man is facing felony charges after shooting at two men, causing one of them to be hospitalized. Court documents say that a juvenile witnessed the shooting. Dakota Pierce, 23, has been charged with two counts of felony discharge of a firearm resulting in serious bodily injury, two counts of endangerment of a child, three counts of felony discharge of a firearm, and one count of reckless endangerment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on July 17, 2025, just before 11:30 p.m., two men were leaving a smoke shop on State Street when they noticed a man later identified as Pierce accompanied by a juvenile walking toward them on the sidewalk. Woman arrested after assaulting officer, breaking his ankle, documents say One of the men saw a dark-colored vehicle make a U-turn and park near a local car rental business. Pierce placed the juvenile into the vehicle and turned to the two men as they walked past him. He allegedly shouted, You guys having a good night? Before the two men could react, documents say Pierce pulled out a black handgun and fired in their direction five times. The two men fled, but one of them had been shot in the abdomen during the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Taylorsville Police Department responded and took a description of Pierce as a caucasian male with a goatee, long brown ponytail, and wearing colored shorts. The Unified Police Department responded to take over the case and learned that the victim had been transported to the hospital with two gunshot wounds to the abdomen. The victim would later tell police that he did not know Pierce, and was fearful for his life. He believed that the gunshots were not directed at him, but someone else nearby. EXCLUSIVE: Musicians murder still unsolved after 25 years family mourns on the anniversary of the killing Officers located five spent shell casings at the scene of the shooting, as well as one unspent round of ammunition. Surveillance footage from the car rental business captured Pierce walking down the sidewalk before going out of view, then roughly 30 seconds later, it showed the two men fleeing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An officer with the Unified Police Department located a suspect matching Pierces description walking toward the crime scene, court documents say. Pierce was detained and identified, and a search warrant was obtained for his residence in hopes of locating the firearm used in the shooting. During the search, officers located a black .22 revolver, a holstered black firearm on the kitchen counter, two boxes of .45 ACP ammunition, and an empty pistol magazine with a nine-round capacity. One of the ammunition boxes was missing nine rounds. Police were unable to locate the firearm they believe was used in the shooting. The homeowner told police that she was not aware of an incident on State Street, and that she had seen Pierce around 10 p.m. at work when he visited with two juveniles. She also stated that Pierce was using another persons vehicle. After work, she said that she met with Pierce, two men, and the juveniles outside of a nearby bar; one of the men drove her and one of the juveniles home. Woman arrested at Orem hotel after anonymous tip about prostitution Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police made contact with the man who took the two home, and he stated that he and the other were at the bar and had been drinking. A gun exchanged hands between the two and was later given to Pierce. The man stated that he went to pick up Pierce, when Pierce suddenly became aggressive toward two men on bicycles and began shooting at them. According to court documents, surveillance footage from the bar showed Pierce with two juveniles outside the bar. Pierce is handed a firearm and places it in his waistband. The homeowner who lives with Pierce then arrives and leaves with one of the juveniles. Pierce and the juvenile who witnessed the shooting then began walking down the sidewalk and out of view of the cameras. In a police interview, Pierce stated that the man captured on surveillance footage looks a lot like me. When asked whether he had fired a gun that night, he allegedly responded that he could have under the right circumstances. Documents say he also admitted to drinking an unknown amount of alcohol before the incident. Pierce was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail, where he is being held on a no-bail warrant. He has an initial appearance in court scheduled for July 28. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. An illegal immigrant accused of shooting an off-duty border officer in the face was reportedly vetted by immigration agents over Zoom. Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, 21, was arrested earlier this week after allegedly shooting a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer in a botched robbery attempt in Fort Washington Park, New York. It has emerged that Mr Nunez crossed into the US from Mexico in April 2023, and was allowed to stay following a virtual immigration appointment with an agent working the US-Canadian border, the New York Post reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video calls were used to speed up processing times under the Biden administration, according to the Post. The whole system was overwhelmed by what the Biden administration was allowing, Charles Marino, a former senior Homeland Security adviser told the newspaper. Virtual interviews were a nightmare In April 2023 alone, more than 183,000 migrants crossed into the US at the southern border. Border agents recruited colleagues on the northern side to question them via Zoom, law enforcement sources told The Post. One Homeland Security adviser told the paper the virtual interviews were a nightmare that they could not ensure thorough vetting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owing to a lack of detention space, Mr Nunez was released into the US with a notice to appear in front of an immigration judge and orders to report to his local Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office, insiders claimed. A judge ordered the Dominican national to be deported when he failed to turn up to court. Mr Nunezs DNA was not taken at the time because of a shortage of swabs, sources told The Post, and he had no criminal record. He is said to have remained in the country illegally and was arrested four times, including for reckless driving and assault. Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez was arrested earlier this week On Saturday, Mr Nunez and another Dominican immigrant, Christhian Aybar-Berroa, 22, allegedly pulled up near a CBP agent who was sitting on the rocks in the Manhattan park and approached him from behind with a gun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The immigration officer, who has not been publicly identified, drew his own gun and fired back, striking Mr Nunes three times. The agent was hit in the face and forearm and is in a stable condition in hospital, sources told The Post. The suspects fled on a moped, but Mr Nunez was later arrested after walking into a hospital in the Bronx with gunshot wounds. Following the incident, President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social: Last night, in New York City, an incredible CBP officer was shot in the face by an illegal alien monster freed into the country under Joe Biden. He was apprehended at the border in April 2023 but, instead of being deported, was RELEASED. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CBP officer bravely fought off his attacker, despite his wounds, demonstrating enormous skill and courage. 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 now youve maybe seen the news that House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is, effectively, shutting down the Houses legislative work and sending everyone home early for August recess in order to block any House floor action on the release of investigative files on Jeffrey Epstein, the deceased convicted sex offender. His rationale for all of this is two-fold. He says that after conversations with the White House and President Trump, he believes that lawmakers need to give the executive branch space to do the work they are already doing to release the files. This supposed work to make the documents public is only a few days old. Trump only directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to look into unsealing grand jury material in the case (a maneuver that will likely yield little) after a week of bad-for-Trump headlines spurred by his own Justice Departments decision to not release any more info to the public. A growing rift began to emerge last week not just among Trumps MAGA base of conspiracy theorist influencers, but within the Republican Party as well. At least 10 House Republicans had indicated they would join Democrats in supporting a bipartisan resolution sponsored by Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY), which calls for releasing a lot more from the Epstein investigative files than the Trump administration is currently looking into unsealing. Massie and Khanna planned to use a procedural move, a discharge petition, to compel a vote on the matter. Per CNN: That procedural maneuver requires seven legislative days before House lawmakers can formally collect the necessary signatures. Once they prove they have support from 218 members, it would force party leaders to bring it to the floor. Trumps attorney general has asked for grand jury material to be made public which also is likely to be a slow-moving effort, and one that requires court approval. But the Massie and Khanna measure goes significantly further, requiring the Trump administration to release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to Epstein within 30 days. It would also require the White House to release a list of all government officials and politically exposed persons named or referenced in the released materials a list that Trumps base has been demanding. Meanwhile House Republicans on the Rules Committee are blocking any legislation from reaching the House floor for a vote this week in order to block Democrats from introducing Epstein-related amendments. When Johnson decided to close down the House as early as Wednesday afternoon and shut down a vote on a non-binding resolution that wouldve allowed some House Republicans to vocalize their concerns over the Epstein matter before heading home for recess, he defiantly declared, were done being lectured on transparency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then went on to paint the issue as a moral dilemma that involved protecting the identity of Epsteins victims his second reason for packing things up early. Heres Johnsons quote in full, part of remarks he made during a press conference Tuesday when he also ridiculed Massie: What I know about the presidents heart on this is that he agrees with everything Ive said here today. He wants maximum transparency but he is also very insistent that we do not subject people, who have already been victims of unspeakable crimes, to further public scrutiny. It would be a very dangerous thing to put those peoples names out or to do a release of information in a way that is haphazard, where they could easily unmasked. And so you have to be very careful about how you do that. I think we have a moral responsibility to do that. We have a moral responsibility to expose the evil of Epstein and everybody that was involved in that, absolutely. And were resolved to do it, but we also have an equal moral responsibility to protect the innocent. And that is a fine needle to thread. Its a change in tone from what we heard from the House speaker last week, when he broke with the White House and aggressively advocated for more transparency. Im for transparency, Johnson told right-wing influencer Benny Johnson. Its a very delicate subject but we should put everything out there and let the people decide it. MAGA Not Satisfied Despite Trumps attempt to quiet discontent within his political movement by directing Bondi to find a way to release grand jury materials on Epstein and having his personal lawyer-turned-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche meet with jailed Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell some of the more hardcore MAGA conspiracy theorists are not buying it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ongoing frustration spans from longtime allies in Congress like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) to far-right influencer and (newfound Trump confidante) like Laura Loomer. If you tell the base of people, who support you, of deep state treasonous crimes, election interference, blackmail, and rich powerful elite evil cabals, then you must take down every enemy of The People. If not. The base will turn and theres no going back. Dangling bits of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 21, 2025 Todays statement by Pam Bondi seems like a massive cope. Why wasnt this interview with Ghislaine Maxwell done on day 1? I guess what I want to know is whether the DOJ is basically saying they have never met with Ghislaine Maxwell to ask her or interview her about whether she https://t.co/X6qYB89046 Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) July 22, 2025 Who Asked For This As if there were not more pressing matters before the House of Representatives, House Republicans are apparently trying to rename the Kennedy Center Opera House in honor of First Lady Melania Trump. Per WaPo: A Republican proposal would rename the second-largest theater in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after the first lady, if legislation considered Tuesday by the House Appropriations Committee becomes law. Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho) proposed the amendment during a committee markup of the bill funding the Interior Department, the Environmental Protection Agency and related agencies for fiscal 2026. The committee adopted the measure by a vote of 33-25. In Case You Missed It House and Executive Branch Now Totally Derailed by Epstein Why Trump Lawyer Emil Bove is So Different Than Past Controversial Judicial Appointments Appeals Court Stirs Awake In Long-Delayed Contempt Of Court Case Over AEA Flights Yesterdays Most Read Story Trump and the American People Two Ships Crossing in the Night What We Are Reading Why You Are Reading Reddit a Lot More These Days Showdown in New Jersey Over Top Federal Prosecutor How redistricting could change the fight for the House majority MILFORD Milford Food Bank was recently awarded a grant of $5,000 from KREMC Operation Round Up Fund held at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. The food bank plays a vital role in addressing hunger in northern Indiana and southern Michigan, a press release from the food bank reads. With this funding, Milford Food Bank will make food purchases which will enhance its capacity to serve its growing network of partners including local food pantries, community kitchens, shelters, recovery centers, backpack programs, schools, churches and numerous other organizations working to fight food insecurity. The staff, board members and volunteers are grateful to KREMC for this gift and the continued ability to show compassion and support for those in need. Milford Food Bank is a faith-based nonprofit food bank located in Milford that, according information from the pantry, aims to be the hands and feet of Jesus, believes that no one should go hungry, and called to share freely and give generously to those in need. MFB rescues bulk food and distributes it at no charge, providing essential support to local and regional food pantries, community kitchens, schools, churches, and recovery homes that care and provide for individuals and families facing food insecurity. It distributes over 350,000 pounds of food every month to over 200 organizations throughout northern Indiana and southern Michigan. For more information about Milford Food Bank and its initiatives or to get involved, visit www.milfordfoodbank.org. MILLERSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A former detective with the Millersville Police Department has been charged with perjury and official misconduct According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), 50-year-old Todd Dorris was indicted Wednesday by the Robertson County Grand Jury after a year-long investigation. Millersville police officer terminated for inappropriate sexual comments TBI agents began an investigation on July 16, 2024 into allegations Dorris made false statements while under oath during a Robertson County General Sessions preliminary hearing in May 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dorris was charged with one count of aggravated perjury and one count of official misconduct. He turned himself into the Robertson County Jail Tuesday and was booked on a $30,000 bond. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com District Attorney General Robert Nash, who requested the investigation, recused himself from the case, according to a release. The Court subsequently appointed Michael Dunavant, the Deputy Director of the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference, to serve as District Attorney General Pro Tem. No additional 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 WKRN News 2. A Millersville detective was indicted July 16 after being accused of making a false statement under oath during a May 2024 Robertson County grand jury session. Todd Dorris, 50, is charged with one count of aggravated perjury and one count of official misconduct. No information was shared about what Dorris said under oath, leading to the charges. Calls seeking comment from Millersville commissioners were not immediately returned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dorris turned himself in on July 22 and was booked into the Robertson County jail on $30,000 bond. He was no longer listed as an inmate on the county's jail roster one day later. More: Former Middle Tennessee top cop, assistant at center of lawsuit tied to child sex sting More: Millersville names police chief as interim city manager after months of turmoil Deputy director of the Tennessee District Attorney General's Conference Michael Dunavant was appointed by the court to prosecute the case after District Attorney General Robert Nash recused himself. Millersville turmoil Dorris' indictment continues a tumultuous run for Millersville that began in January 2024 when the board of commissioners fired then City Manager Scott Avery and hired Tina Tobin as his replacement during the same meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tobin fired the city's police chief, fire chief, city attorney, city recorder and assistant city recorder in the days following her appointment, which led to a host of resignations throughout the city. She later resigned, leaving the city's newly hired police chief, Bryan Morris, to take over city manager duties on an interim basis. In December 2024, a group of new commissioners took over, ushering in a new era of politics for the city. One of the first items on their agenda: right the city's failing budget. City Attorney Bryant Kroll resigned when newly-elected commissioner Dustin Darnall sought to reduce his hourly wage from $200 to $15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motion came after a long discussion on how much money the city was earmarking for legal services. During the past year, the city appropriated around $32,000 for legal services on an as-needed basis. Darnall said Millersville had $100,000 appropriated for Kroll. After Kroll's departure, Morris resigned, citing ongoing tension with the current commissioners. Before Morris left, the police department's assistant chief and controversial leader Shawn Taylor abruptly retired. Taylor and the city came under fire in September after agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation raided the police department and Taylor's Robertson County home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of Taylor's retirement, Morris said Dorris, a police captain, was running the department's day-to-day operations. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Grand jury: Millersville detective lied under oath, faces charges "Most of the routes on Colorado's fourteeners are walk-ups," reads a top guidebook to the peaks. And then there are the "alternate" or "nonstandard" routes that call to other adventure seekers. A 22-year-old graduate student who went missing after leaving a bar in Wisconsin has been found dead. In an update on Wednesday, July 23, the La Crosse Police Department said that shortly before 10:30 a.m. local time that day, they were notified by the Houston County Sheriffs Department in Minnesota that a body had been found in the Mississippi River. "In what has been an ongoing proactive effort to locate Eliotte Heinz who had been reported missing on July 20th, 2025, today Eliottes body was recovered in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, MN," the Wisconsin department added, noting that their investigation remains ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police went on to say that they're awaiting autopsy results before an official cause of death can be determined. This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search," La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends and all those who knew Eliotte. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte." Police previously said that Heinz was last seen walking southbound on the 500 Block of Front Street South which is close to the Mississippi River at approximately 3:22am on Sunday, July 20. According to Viterbo University, the school Heinz attended, she had been at Bronco's Bar in La Crosse around 2:30 a.m. local time that morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family members said that she was on her way home when she disappeared, according to local station WKBT-DT. Viterbo University Eliotte Heinz Eliotte Heinz Police have confirmed that she was walking home from the bar when she disappeared, according to Fox News. 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. Before her daughter's body was found, the student's mother spoke to those who had gathered for a prayer service at the university on Monday, July 21, local radio station WIZM reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We ask that if youve seen anything, even if its small, anything at all, please call the La Crosse Police Department," Amber said, according to the station. "If you have Ring cameras and you think you might have captured an image of Eliotte, please call them, let them take a look at your footage. Even if you dont think its a big deal, it could be a really big deal for her." Amber also spoke to local station WKBT-DT, tearfully telling the outlet, "We love you, we miss you, and we're doing everything we can to get you back to us." Read the original article on People OPELOUSAS, La. (KLFY) Authorities are seeking assistance in finding Gary Loven, 75, of Opelousas who had been missing since Monday. According to the police, they were dispatched Tuesday evening to 502 E. Madison Street in reference to a missing person report. Upon arrival, officers said they made contact with a female subject who identified herself as the landlord of the residence. The landlord reported that Loven was last seen Monday around 4 p.m. at the residence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loven is known to have no family in the Opelousas area. According to the landlord, he had recently expressed interest in traveling to Arkansas and it was reported that he may have been offering $200 to individuals in exchange for a ride, police said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Police reported Loven is diagnosed with dementia, and there is concern for his well-being. Loven can be described as a white male who is 5 foot 7 inches, weighs approximately 190 lb. and has gray hair, police said. If located, please do not attempt to detain him, but contact the Opelousas Police Department immediately. Mr. Loven should be returned to 502 E. Madison Street, Opelousas, LA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Gary Loven is asked to contact the Opelousas Police Department at (337) 948-2500. Gary Loven, 75, of Opelousas 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. TOOELE, Utah (ABC4) The missing West Wendover man who was found dead last week is now being investigated as a murder, according to the Tooele County Sheriffs Office. Salvador Cornejo Pedraza was found several days after his car had been located just north of Wendover. He was last seen by his family on June 20, when he left home around 7 p.m. and did not report to work over the weekend. The Tooele County Sheriffs Office said investigators quickly determined that Pedrazas death was the result of homicide and arrested a suspect, identified as Geoffry Goldborough, in connection with his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation into Pedrazas alleged murder is still ongoing, and the Tooele County Sheriffs Office did not provide any further information. This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. By Daniel Wiessner (Reuters) -Missouri's Republican attorney general filed a lawsuit on Wednesday accusing reproductive healthcare provider Planned Parenthood of misleading women about the potential risks of using the abortion drug mifepristone. The lawsuit by the office of Attorney General Andrew Bailey claims Planned Parenthood tells patients that the drug is safer than many other medicines like penicillin, Tylenol, and Viagra," while not disclosing that up to 4.6% of women visit emergency rooms after taking it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit in Missouri state court accuses Planned Parenthood of violating a state law banning deceptive business practices. The state is seeking millions of dollars in penalties, including up to $1,000 for each woman in Missouri who has been provided abortion pills by Planned Parenthood over the last five years. "We are going to hold these charlatans and death dealers accountable," Bailey said in a social media post. Planned Parenthood did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Mifepristone is taken in tandem with another drug, misoprostol, during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, and won approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medication abortions account for more than half of U.S. abortions, though 28 states including Missouri restrict access, according to the nonprofit Guttmacher Institute, which focuses on reproductive health. The FDA has repeatedly called mifepristone safe and effective as demonstrated over decades of use by millions of Americans, with rare adverse effects. According to the FDA, between 2.9% and 4.6% of women who take the drug then visit an emergency room, and up to 0.6% of women who use mifepristone are hospitalized. A widely-cited 2021 study that purported to show an increase in emergency room visits after using mifepristone has been retracted. In Wednesday's lawsuit, Bailey's office said that newer studies conducted since the administration of former President Joe Biden eased some restrictions on accessing mifepristone identified serious adverse effects in more than 10% of women who took a single dose of the drug. (Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York; Editing by Nia Williams) Missouri is suing Planned Parenthood for allegedly lying to patients about the risks of the abortion medication mifepristone. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) filed a lawsuit Wednesday in Jefferson City arguing that Planned Parenthoods claims that the abortion drug is safer than many other medications including penicillin and Tylenol are untrue and violate the states consumer-protection law. Bailey claims that the nonprofit organization has lied about the safety of the drug to cut costs and boost revenue, according to the lawsuit. The complaint also requests a court order to stop Planned Parenthood from continuing to promote the falsehoods, in Missouri and for the organization to pay more than $1.8 million in civil penalties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorney generals office is also asking for the organization to be fined $1,000 in damages to every woman in the Show-Me State that has received abortion medication through one of is providers in the past five years. On top of this, it asks that the organization reimburse the state for Medicaid and other tax-payer-funded emergency care provided to people who suffered complications after taking mifepristone. We are going to hold these charlatans and death dealers accountable, Bailey wrote in a post on social platform X about the suit. The crux of the lawsuits argument comes down to a disagreement over how many people suffer adverse health effects after taking mifepristone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) warning label for the drug, it states that between 2.9 percent and 4.6 percent of people who have taken it along with misoprostol report visiting an emergency room afterwards. There are two drugs typically needed for a medication abortion: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone stops the pregnancy from growing while misoprostol induces cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. More than 100 scientific studies across decades have looked at the efficacy and safety of the pair and all of them have found the drugs safe for use, according to an analysis from The New York Times. Baileys lawsuit claims that the FDAs label is inaccurate and that recent studies suggest the complication rate is much higher. The lawsuit does not cite a specific study to back up its claim and a spokesperson for the attorney generals office did not answer questions from The Hill about what data was used to back up its claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit does echo findings outlined in a deeply flawed study published in April by the conservative think tank the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC) which states that after analyzing more than 865,000 prescribed mifepristone abortions, it determined that nearly 11 percent of women experienced a serious adverse event. Thats nearly 22 times higher than what the FDA reports. Baileys lawsuit references a dataset of more than 850,000 mifepristone abortions that identified serious adverse events in more than 10 percent of women who took the drug. Medical researchers have criticized the EPPC study for its lack of transparency and for flaws in its methodology. One of the largest hiccups of the study is its inclusion of emergency room visits as one of the serious adverse events that can happen after taking the abortion pill, health experts say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EPPC study breaks down serious adverse events into categories including hemorrhage, sepsis and emergency room visits. It looks as if emergency room visits were counted as adverse events even if health care workers determined the patient was healthy and released them without treatment. Some people might go to an emergency room after taking the abortion pill to confirm that they are no longer pregnant or to make sure that the bleeding they are experiencing is normal, two principal research scientists at the Guttmacher Institute noted in an op-ed last month. Planned Parenthood said in a statement to The Hill that the organization is not surprised Bailey filed the meritless lawsuit. AG Bailey will stop at nothing to block Missourians from getting care. He has attempted to subpoena the records of Missourians who have had abortions, subverted the will of Missouri voters at every turn, and has used the power of the state to protect anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers, said Danika Severino Wynn, vice president of Abortion Access at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. This isnt about keeping Missourians healthy and safe; its only about attacking abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wynn added that more than 7.5 million people in the U.S. have used mifepristone to terminate a pregnancy or treat a miscarriage since the FDA approved the drug in 2000. It has allowed patients to make their own private medical decisions, and expanded access to reproductive health care something that is very clearly under threat in this country and in Missouri. The lawsuit is the latest attack from conservative lawmakers on Planned Parenthood. Under the GOPs new tax and spending bill, the organization would lose its ability to receive Medicaid reimbursements for health services it provides for one year. The nonprofit sued the Trump administration over the provision and a federal judge granted the organizations request for a temporary injunction earlier this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 6:51 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COLUMBIA, Mo. A research team at the University of Missouri is using artificial intelligence to monitor the spread of invasive Callery pear trees across the state, specifically focusing on mid-Missouri. Also known Bradford pear trees, Callery pears are are notorious for their rapid growth and ability to overwhelm native plants. Their seeds spread quickly, allowing them to take over natural landscapes and disrupt local ecosystems. They have distinct white blossoms, weak wood and a rounded shape, while oftentimes also emitting an unpleasant odor. Justin Krohn, a Mizzou graduate student and research project analyst, tells Phys.org that these invasive trees are increasingly showing up in disturbed areas like roadways and new housing developments, raising long-term environmental concerns. He also observed a surprisingly high number of invasive trees in the Mark Twain National Forest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the areas where they might spread are treated proactively, whether thats roadside clearings or growing native plants, that may help stop these invasive trees from taking over, better protecting our ecosystem, said Krohn. Child sex predator on the loose; arrest warrant filed To map the spread, Krohn used free satellite imagery and machine learning, two methods of artificial intelligence considered cost-effective compared to drone and aircraft surveys. In a recent study, Krohn used a GPS device to explore Columbia, Missouri, and log exact locations of Callery pear trees. Then, he utilized a machine learning model to recognize them in satellite images based on their unique reflection patterns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His analysis found that Callery pear trees are more prevalent in suburban areas with open land compared to denser urban cities. Moving forward, Krohn hopes to develop a free online tool where people and download his code of models to track invasive species in other regions. As Columbia continues to grow, we may be able to use the trends we noticed to better predict where these trees are likely to spread, said Krohn. I want to help those focused on plant management and invasive species to be able to benefit from this technology without having to spend a lot of money on imagery. The research is a collaborative effort involving multiple departments at Mizzou, including the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and the MU Institute for Data Science and Informatics. Advertisement 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. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. A recent archaeological field school at Missouri State University (MSU) found what they call a momentous archaeological discovery at one of its properties, according to an MSU news release. The release says in May, undergraduate students participated in a three-week field school led by the Center for Archaeological Research (CAR). During fieldwork at the Darr Agricultural Center, they discovered the foundation remains of one of Springfields earliest homesteads the William Townsend house, built in the 1830s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With guidance from research archaeologist Dr. Daniel Pierce and CAR director Kevin Cupka Head, 20 students immersed themselves in hands-on training in archaeological excavation and surveying at the McKenzie-Townsend site. The location straddles the Darr Center and Nathanael Greene Park. According to Pierce in the release, previous excavations conducted by CAR in 2008 and 2012 hinted at the sites historical significance, unearthing artifacts like Civil War-era buttons and 19th-century ceramics. The precise location of the original house remained undiscovered until the final week of this years field school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our goal for the field school was not only to teach students how to excavate but also be able to identify the site and where the house was, he said in the release. The students, as well as CAR staff are very excited about the discovery after so much searching. Learning by doing One of the students involved was senior anthropology major Christina Cheek. I gained experience with excavation techniques and procedures, and learned how to conduct pedestrian surveys, shovel tests, GPS mapping and the lab processes of cleaning and cataloging artifacts, Cheek said in the release. Cupka Head said that through the students participation, they get a good idea about what North American archaeology and a possible career will look like. Its not so much about going into jungles and discovering lost cities. It mostly involves going around our backyard and making sure were doing what we can to protect historic sites and cultural heritage threatened by development, he said. A window into Springfields history The McKenzie-Townsend site is named after early landowners Alexander McKenzie and William Townsend. Townsend came from Tennessee with his family and several enslaved individuals around 1832 and settled in the area. Archival records and artifacts suggest the Townsend family lived there until the mid-to-late 1850s. According to Cupka Head, the presence of nails at the site indicated the house would have had plank flooring. The excavation uncovered a layer of floor sweepings ash, ceramic fragments and other debris that had likely fallen through the cracks and accumulated along the wall over time. Its neat. You dont really find sites this early with so much intact, he said in the release. It offers a glimpse of daily antebellum life in Springfield. Plans for more work While fieldwork at the site has paused, CAR plans to return for future work. Theres a lot more to this site weve yet to identify, Pierce said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, there is reportedly a lost cemetery nearby. Researchers may use geophysical surveys to find and move it. Cupka Head believes these types of projects are great examples of how CAR exemplifies Missouri States public affairs mission. Its preserving the history of our community, the history of Missouri, he said in the release. We worked with Darr and city parks, as well as engaged with the public who came by with questions. CAR hopes to host public exhibits at the center and/or park to display some of the artifacts recovered from the site. The more public archaeology experiences we offer, the more we can inspire community interest and involvement, Cupka Head said. Theres so much out there to protect, preserve and identify, so bringing the public on board as partners and stewards of cultural resources benefits us all. Advertisement 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage, Iowa. (Photo via Google Earth) State regulators have issued a warning to a Mitchell County hospital for alleged violations of trauma-center standards. According to records of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Emergency and Medical Trauma Services, a virtual on-site verification of services at the Mitchell County Regional Health Center was conducted in February 2022 after the hospital submitted an application for self-assessment to the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As a result of that inspection, five deficiencies were noted: Corrective-action plans: The trauma medical director and trauma program manager failed to work together with the trauma peer review committee to develop corrective-action plans for deficiencies in care. The state found that methods to ensure monitoring, reevaluation, and benchmarking were not being documented. Injury prevention: Findings from the trauma registry were not being used to identify injury prevention priorities for implementation. Identifying events for corrective action: The hospitals trauma program had no documentation of event identification and levels of review that would result in the development of corrective action plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quality improvement: All elements of the hospitals Trauma Performance Improvement and Patient Safety program intended to enhance the quality of trauma care and ensure patient safety were not being reviewed and updated at least annually. Data used for injury prevention: The hospitals injury prevention efforts were not being prioritized based on local trauma and epidemiologic data. The hospital was given one year to correct the five deficiencies, all of which were deemed to be fully resolved in January 2023. In November 2024, the hospital submitted another self-assessment application and in April 2025, a virtual verification inspection was conducted by team of individuals with three additional deficiencies noted by the bureau: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patient-transfer plans: The hospital did not have collaborative treatment and transfer guidelines that were regularly reviewed with input from higher-level trauma centers in the region. The hospital was given one year to correct the problem. Brain-death criteria: All trauma centers are required to have written protocols defining the clinical criteria and confirmatory tests to diagnose brain death. The bureau alleges the hospital has failed to meet this standard. The hospital was given one year to correct the problem. Corrective-action plans: While the trauma center was deemed efficient at identifying events that required corrective action, it failed to adequately develop corrective action plans and establish mechanisms for monitoring, reevaluation and benchmarking. While the bureaus report indicates that a focused site visit is to be conducted within six to 12 months to determine whether this particular issue has been addressed, the report also states that the hospital currently remains noncompliant with this standard. As a result of the findings, the bureau has issued the hospital a citation and warned the hospital that if it continues to fail to meet trauma-center standards after one year, further disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of the hospitals trauma care facility designation, may be imposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a written statement, Beth Trees, chief nursing officer at Mitchell County Regional Health Center, said the hospital is refining our peer review process in collaboration with our providers and will work closely with the state. Mitchell County Regional Health Center is proud of the high-quality emergency care we provide and confident in the services our team delivers. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares speaks at a news conference in Richmond on July 23, 2025, where he highlighted support from 78 sheriffs in his reelection bid and addressed recent immigration enforcement efforts by ICE and the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury) Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares on Wednesday declined to provide evidence to support Gov. Glenn Youngkins recent claim that more than 2,500 people arrested through the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force were violent criminals. Pressed by The Mercury to confirm whether all those individuals had a history of violent crime during a news conference in Richmond touting dozens of local law enforcement leaders supporting his reelection campaign, Miyares deferred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, youre going to have to ask the Secretary of Public Safety, he said, referring to Terrance Cole, Youngkins top homeland security official, who did not attend Wednesdays event. The governor made the controversial claim earlier this month while defending a series of courthouse arrests carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, which have drawn sharp criticism from civil rights groups and some local officials. Although the state played no direct role in the recent ICE operations at Virginia courthouses, Youngkin praised the federal agencys work and cast the 2,500 arrests made under his state-federal task force as a public safety triumph. Two-thousand five-hundred violent criminals who are here illegally MS-13 members, Tren de Aragua, others, international violent gang members, Youngkin said during a press conference at the Virginia State Police headquarters on July 2. If someone breaks the law and is here illegally, they should be arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But on Wednesday, Miyares who is facing Democrat Jay Jones in his bid for a second term as Virginias top law enforcement official offered a more tempered characterization of the individuals targeted, focusing instead on immigration violations, not violent offenses. There are those that are here illegally that are committing crimes, and then (in) the second category theres 1.4 million people that are in this country illegally, that have already had a deportation hearing, they have been in front of a judge, Miyares said. And under the Biden administration, nothing happened. And so they are now looking at these people that have already had their day in court, and they are seeking for them to actually comply with the court order. Miyares delivered his remarks at an event where he announced the endorsement of 78 Virginia sheriffs in his bid for reelection. Surrounded by law enforcement leaders from across the commonwealth, he praised ICE officers and warned that political attacks on immigration agents could lead to violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My biggest concern is youre going to have a federal agent thats getting murdered. Youve already had one thats been shot, he said, likely referring to a recent incident where an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer was shot in an apparent robbery. Youve had a 500% increase in assaults on ICE agents. He also emphasized that many undocumented immigrants violate multiple laws when they reenter the country after prior deportation or seek employment in the United States. If you reentered the country after youve been told to leave, thats a felony, number one, Miyares said. And two, if you were working here, youd actually commit three different felonies. If youre an illegal alien and you get a fake Social Security number, you apply for a job, and youre working, thats two or three different felonies by itself. Miyaress comments contrast with the sweeping language used by Youngkin, who has described the Homeland Security Task Force as a national model of success and a linchpin of Virginias partnership with ICE under the 287(g) program, which empowers local and state police to enforce federal immigration laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a concerted effort to collaborate with the federal government to make sure that violent criminals that are here illegally are arrested, Youngkin said previously. But critics say the task force and ICEs presence at courthouses have ensnared immigrants with no criminal history and created a chilling effect for victims and witnesses who fear coming to court. One of those detained in Chesterfield County last month was Salvador Calderon-Cuellar, a man who came to the courthouse to pay a $130 fine for two traffic violations. According to court records, he had no prior arrests. He was arrested by ICE officers who were stationed at a back entrance. He had no prior arrests, Chesterfield Supervisor Jessica Schneider told The Mercury at the time. Can you tell me that that is a violent criminal person that should be detained? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Civil rights advocates say the enforcement tactics are politically motivated and erode trust in the justice system. The courthouse is a sacred place in a democracy, Nicole Martin, president of the Chesterfield County NAACP, said last month. We cannot have a system where people are afraid to show up for hearings, testify as witnesses, or seek protection because ICE might be waiting to detain them. Youngkin dismissed such concerns, asserting that ICE agents are avoiding schools and churches and accused the media of distorting the facts. The media really wants to try to sow deceit, he said. However, national reports contradict that claim. In recent months, ICE has conducted arrests outside churches, near schools and even in a school parking lot in Washington, D.C., where officials blocked agents from entering until they presented a warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Virginia Homeland Security Task Force, launched in February, includes more than 200 officers from the FBI, ICE, Virginia State Police and Department of Corrections. Officials say the task force has focused on gang activity and narcotics trafficking. Yet the lack of detailed breakdowns on who has been arrested and for what crimes has led to growing scrutiny. Miyares pointed to his personal ride-along with ICE in 2024 as justification for the programs aims. It was all individuals that had been picked up, they were here illegally, they had been picked up on crimes, he said, citing several cases where detainees had been violent offenders. And so those stories oftentimes arent reported, candidly, by our friends in the media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, immigration researchers note that undocumented immigrants are not more likely to commit crimes than U.S.-born citizens. A 2024 report funded by the National Institute of Justice found that undocumented immigrants in Texas were arrested at significantly lower rates including for violent crimes than native-born residents. For now, Miyares appears to walk a line between defending aggressive enforcement and sidestepping the governors more inflammatory rhetoric. They have been ordered to leave by a judge, he said of the individuals detained by ICE at Virginia courthouses. Theyve had their due process. Thats my understanding of who is being targeted. That shouldnt be controversial. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Not all battles are fought with bullets. The Telegraph have travelled to Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, during a vital geopolitical crossroads on Europes eastern flank. To its east is Ukraine, a country fighting for its very survival. To its west is Romania, a member of Nato and the European Union. Moldova is a member of neither and for many, that puts it in Putins sights. The Telegraph has explored the dangers facing Moldova and the ramifications not only for Ukraine and Europe, but also for the wider West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there were such a thing as a second Cold War, Chisinau would be on the front line. To hear more about this story, listen to our award-winning podcast, Ukraine: The Latest. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. With the help of 30 volunteers, Calverts Mini Market in Palmer Lake has relocated into its new home, although it remains in the same building. After nearly two years in a cozy upstairs location off Colorado Highway 105, Calverts Mini Market has taken a significant step moving into a larger, more versatile space in the building formerly occupied by the Bella Panini restaurant. The expansion allows owner Stephanie Calvert to realize her original vision of a locally focused market thats not just a store, but a community gathering place. We wanted to start small and see how the town liked it, Calvert said. The chance to move to a more accommodating location came last year when the downstairs restaurant space became available. Though timing complications initially delayed the move, Calvert stayed in close contact with the property owner and eventually made the leap. It was bittersweet. We loved our original spot but moving just downstairs meant we got to keep the same address, the same landlord, and stay rooted in the same community, she said. Calverts Mini Market opened in September 2023 and quickly gained a loyal following for its focus on Colorado-made and allergy-conscious products. The shops clean-label philosophy attracted health-conscious customers seeking alternatives to the long drives and crowded aisles of chain supermarkets. It also stood out for its commitment to local artisans, authors and food producers. Weve always had that goal of offering something local in every aisle, Calvert said. When I used to shop at King Soopers, Id go aisle to aisle just looking for those little Colorado flag tags. It was exhausting. I thought, why not build a place where local isnt the exception, rather its the default? That guiding principle has shaped everything from the stores product selection to its community events. Alongside fresh produce, locally baked goods, handmade magnets and art, the market also carries local literature, including Bright Star of Palmer Lake, a 36-page hardcover book filled with poetry, art, and stories about the town, penned by local author Nancy Godbout Jurka. Now in its larger space, Calvert plans to expand those offerings and bring back interactive programs which were popular when the store first opened. We used to host kids classes where theyd make their own Play-Doh, friendship bracelets, drink healthy teas and eat popcorn while hanging out together, she said. It was fun, simple and gave families something to do. I really wanted to bring that kind of thing back. Featured Local Savings With the downstairs unit offering increased square footage and full commercial infrastructure including walk-in coolers, larger freezers, a dishwashing station, and a designated seating area, those plans are now in motion. Calvert is preparing to relaunch kids classes, host bouquet-building workshops and organize casual adult activities like trivia and game nights and crochet hangouts. Im not great at crochet, she laughed. But to be able to hang out and suck at crochet with other people just sounds fun to me. Thats what Im aiming fora space that gives people a reason to come together. The more accommodating location also solves a number of logistical issues which had previously limited the mini markets inventory. Because of the structural limitations of the former upstairs location, the use of commercial coolers was restricted. Thats why we didnt have a deli at first, Calvert said. Its not a full grocery store unless you have a deli section. Though her own wheat allergy keeps her from baking in-house, Calvert partners with regional bakers to stock fresh bread and pastries. With a fully equipped kitchen now available, she hopes to expand the food offerings significantly. We want to be more than a place where you buy groceries, she said. We want to be a place where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Thats the beauty of small towns. You get to be part of peoples daily lives. For Calvert, success isnt measured by volume, but by community. She said its about making things easier for people who live nearby, for people who shouldnt have to drive all the way to Colorado Springs just to find local or allergy-friendly products. If we can be that place for them, thats a win, Calvert said. We try to operate like a year-round farmers market. Calverts Mini Market remains a staunch supporter of local products, partnerships, and people. With its expansion now complete, its poised to play an even bigger role in the heart of Palmer Lake. Shaqita Thomas was kind to everyone, even strangers, her family told a Ramsey County judge Wednesday. Thomas had a special gift of helping and loving others in need, whether it was with food or a place to lay their heads, said her mother, Pauline Shaffer. Anyone would tell you thats who Shaqita was. She just loved people. After Thomas and her husband, Tremain Thomas, became separated, she met Kelvin Maurice Perry, a man known by his former lover as a very violent, jealous person, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Nov. 15, 2023, shortly after Shaqita Thomas spent the night at the emergency room with her estranged husband because of their sons asthma, Perry beat and strangled Thomas, 39, in her downtown St. Paul apartment. Perry, 56, of St. Paul, pleaded guilty to the killing in May. On Wednesday, Judge DeAnne Hilgers gave him the agreed-upon 24-year prison term. Thomas suffered so much trauma her death was so horrific that her casket was closed at her funeral, her mother said. My child didnt deserve to die in such a horrific and brutal way, she said. She died of asphyxiation Paramedics found Thomas dead in her bedroom at Press House Apartments after a friend asked the buildings property manager to do a wellness check. She was lying face down beneath a blow-up mattress in the bedroom, and had head trauma and small cuts on her body. An autopsy determined shed been asphyxiated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A friend of Thomas told investigators she had been on a FaceTime video call with her about 11:20 a.m. Nov. 15 and she was crying while a man yelled at her in the background. Thomas told her friend the man was mad at her for spending the night at the emergency room with her estranged husband, the criminal complaint said. Thomas estranged husband, Tremain Thomas, told investigators he dropped her off in front of the apartment building on Cedar Street between Fourth and Fifth streets between 10 and 10:30 a.m. She wanted him to leave so there wouldnt be an altercation between him and her boyfriend. Surveillance video showed Perry left Thomas apartment about 12:50 p.m. and that her key fob wasnt used to unlock the door again until it was opened for paramedics two days later. A woman who knew Perry since they were kids said he called her at 11:13 a.m. Nov. 17 and that he was crying and panicking and told her, Something is going on, the complaint said. He asked her to tell his sister he loved her and the call ended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 11:15 a.m., Perry walked in front of a Green Line train at University and Western avenues in St. Paul. He was later charged with her murder while still hospitalized with serious injuries. Related Articles She had so much potential Tremain Thomas said in court Wednesday they met in elementary school. He said that even after their ups and downs, he still considered her his best friend. Every day, we talked, even when we werent together, he said, fighting back tears. I still took care of Shaqita, even though we werent together, thats what Im supposed to do. Even when she was with him, I still took care of her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her aunt, Sharon Shaffer, told the judge she cannot understand how someone just treats a life like that, a beautiful life. For help The St. Paul & Ramsey County Domestic Abuse Intervention Project can be reached 24 hours a day at 651-645-2824. Help for domestic violence in Minnesota is also available 24/7 through the Day One crisis hotline by calling 866-223-1111 or texting 612-399-9995. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988 and the Crisis Text Line can be contacted by texting Home to 741741. Almost four months after a mother called for an ambulance that never came, she was found dead in her home alongside her 18-year-old daughter. As an inquest into their deaths continues, new details are emerging about their lives and final moments. Alphonsine Djiako Leuga, 47, and Loraine Choulla, 18, were found dead on May 21, 2024 at their home in Radford, Nottingham and an inquest into the circumstances of their deaths began on Monday, July 21, according to the BBC, The Guardian and ITV News. On Feb. 2, 2024, Leuga called Englands emergency number, 999, according to details shared at a hearing held by Nottingham Coroner's Court. Leuga, who had sickle cell anaemia, told the dispatcher that she needed to help for herself and her daughter, but she was cold and couldn't move, The Guardian reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the outlets, her daughter had learning disabilities and Down syndrome and was "entirely dependent" on her mother. At the hearing, it was revealed that Leuga had been hospitalized for a lower respiratory tract infection that January, but left two days later she was granted a pragmatic discharge to get back to her daughter, according to the BBC. The hospital had wanted her to stay, and urged the mother to return the following day, but when she didn't return, their efforts to contact her were unsuccessful. Just days later, when the mom called for help, she was able to give her address and ask for help before the call ended. "Would you send an ambulance? Please come, please, she said on the phone, the BBC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the hearing, East Midlands Ambulance Services Susan Jevons, who is head of patient safety, said that emergency services tried calling back, but that ultimately "the ambulance didnt go to the address because the emergency medical adviser, thinking it was an abandoned call, closed the call down," according to The Guardian. The Nottingham Coroner's Court and East Midlands Ambulance Service did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests for comment. On the second day of the hearing, it was revealed that in the years before their deaths, the mom restricted access to support services, fearing her child would be taken from her. According to the BBC, three years after the pair moved into the house in Radford, Leuga withdrew her daughter from school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter read in court, Leuga's eldest daughter, Elvira Choulla, said that while Lorraine initially "attended school all the time and loved it," their mother eventually "believed Lorraine was being neglected and didn't allow her to go back." PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo Alphonsine Djiako Leuga's home where she lived with her daughter. Alphonsine Djiako Leuga's home where she lived with her daughter. Elvira, who moved out in 2022, stated that she had a "strained relationship at points" with her mother at times, but that her mom was "very patient" and "loving" to Loraine. In her statement, Elvira said that her contact with her mother became less frequent after July 2023, when her mother who traveled frequently, and "for long periods of time" took Lorraine with her on a trip to Africa, and didn't tell Elvira until after they had already arrived. Elvira went on to say that she saw her mother and sister for the last time in Nov. 2023, when they shared a "lovely meal." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When she came by the house again in early 2024, she said that the house was "in darkness and there were no signs of life" inside, but, according to the BBC, which reported that the gas had been turned off at the house since 2023, after Leuga missed multiple inspections and refused to permit access to the property. In her letter, Elvira wrote that although the house was dark, she decided not to report them as missing because a friend said she had seen them in February The next time she heard about her mother and sister, it was from the police, who told her that they had died, reported ITV News. 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. Dr Stuart Hamilton, a pathologist at the hearing, said that the pair could have been dead for weeks to months before they were discovered, according to The Guardian. He added that he couldnt rule out the chance that the mother died the same day she called for an ambulance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the inquest will go on for five days, the pathologist said that Leuga died of pneumonia, while the cause of her daughters death remains "unascertained," The Guardian reported. But, when asked about the possibility of dehydration or malnutrition, Hamilton said, There is nothing in my findings that say any of that is incorrect. Read the original article on People Stephanie Goreckis 9-year-old son had spent the day playing outside in their Illinois suburb. That night, May 4, after he went to bed, Gorecki decided to check on him one last time before turning in. As she gently ran her fingers through his hair, she felt something. I thought, Oh goodness, what could be in his hair? It could be anything, she recalls to PEOPLE exclusively. The mom of two grabbed a flashlight and returned to his room. As her son slept, the beam of light revealed a tick embedded in his scalp. Gorecki was stunned. A close family friend lives with Lyme disease, and her mind immediately jumped to the worst-case scenario: What if this tick was carrying Lyme, too? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ticks can transmit a range of bacteria, viruses and parasites including Lyme disease, Bourbon virus and Colorado tick fever. Common symptoms of tick-borne illnesses include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue and rash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you find a tick attached to your skin, the CDC recommends removing it as soon as possible using fine-tipped tweezers. There's no need to wait for a healthcare professional. If symptoms develop in the days or weeks after removal, it's important to consult a doctor. With this information in mind, Gorecki quickly retrieved a pair of tweezers and carefully removed it, then instinctively sealed the tick in a plastic bag. I dont even know why I saved it, says Gorecki, 41. But I did, and then I posted a video about it. Overnight, the TikTok video blew up, amassing over 129,000 views and becoming flooded with comments and unsolicited advice. @firstthymemom The tick in a bag The tick in a bag All of a sudden, Im hearing from all these TikTok doctors saying, He needs antibiotics now, Gorecki says. But antibiotics arent just handed out for every tick bite. You actually need a compelling reason. Otherwise, we risk resistance issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She adds, So Im trying to sort through strangers advice, monitor my sons health and do my own research, all at once. With questions swirling, Gorecki reached out to a trusted friend whos a nurse practitioner. I messaged her right away and said, Okay, I found this tick. Im terrified. It was attached to his scalp, but I think it had only been there about six hours, Gorecki recalls. That helped calm my nerves. Once you start gathering reliable information, your panic eases. You go from 'Oh no' to 'Okay, I think were going to be fine.' @firstthymemom Stephanie Gorecki and her family Stephanie Gorecki and her family In the days that followed, her son showed no symptoms and to this day, he remains perfectly healthy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six weeks later, Gorecki shared a follow-up video showing the tick still alive inside the sealed plastic bag labeled "May 4." That post exploded, racking up more than 15 million views and thousands of comments. One user even suggested the family name the tick Rick, which Gorecki says they've adopted. I just thought it was interesting that it was still alive, she says. I didnt know they could survive that long. Apparently, they kind of live forever, she adds with a laugh. Prompted by the TikTok community, Gorecki decided to send the tick to a testing lab in Colorado called Ticknology. For $40, the lab identifies the tick and tests it for 10 different diseases. She just received the results, and though she hasnt posted them yet, the news was reassuring: the tick tested negative for all major diseases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the ordeal, Gorecki says shes learned more than she ever imagined about ticks: their types, the illnesses they can carry and just how common they are. Wed found them before, but after reading the comments, I realized some people deal with them constantly, she says. For some, its like, Whats the big deal about one tick? And honestly, thats kind of laughable. People love to share their own stories, and if I can be a place where they do that, I welcome it with open arms. 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. Now, Gorecki has added one essential step to her familys nightly routine: tick checks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every day, I check my kids, and they actually kind of like it because it feels like a head massage, she jokes. Theyre at summer camp and outside all the time, and ticks can burrow. Kids might not even notice them. But transmission usually happens after 24 hours, so you have to catch them quickly. Shes also teaching her children how to check themselves. Ive told them: look under your arms, check your scalp, check your clothes just be aware. Ticks are disgusting, theyre everywhere, and theyre little disease vectors. Read the original article on People MEMPHIS, Tenn. The Bartlett Fire Department and Bartlett Firefighters Reserve Association are asking for the publics help to raise money for a Baby Box. The Baby Box offers a safe and secure option for mothers who may not be able to care for their newborns, ensuring their anonymity and the childs well-being. According to a post on the City of Bartletts Facebook page, the goal is to raise funds to install this Baby Box at Station 1 on Alturia Road. Station 1 on Alturia Road in Bartlett. WREG photo The city is asking for donations, large and small, to make the service a reality for Bartlett and the surrounding areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We deeply appreciate your support and generosity in helping us provide this important resource. Thank you to Cindy Cromwell of Little Bears Preschool for bringing this opportunity to our attention. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most, said the City of Bartlett. Currently, the only Baby Box in the Memphis-Bartlett area is located in Atoka, Tipton County. To make a donation for the Baby Box, click 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 WREG.com. RICHFIELD, Utah (ABC4) The Monroe fire has grown to 10,066 acres and is 9% contained, according to the latest information from the Utah Department of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. The Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team 3, which is fighting the fire, has nearly 879 fire personnel on location. As temperatures warm up, crews say that will impact fire weather in the area with highs in the low 80s. They suspect a similar trend to continue going into the weekend. Since the fire started on July 13, officials have been searching for the suspect who likely started the massive fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Structure protection work is ongoing in the Magleby area, one of the areas that is under evacuation orders. Officials say containment in this area was possible because the 2020 prescribed fire treatments in the region reduced fuel loading and allowed fire crews to safely engage the fires edge. Courtesy: Utah Fire Info Firing operations are being conducted to secure sections of line in the Bagley Ranch Area. Monroe Meadows will undergo firing operations to bring the fires edge closer to the meadows, where fire intensity is currently low, officials said. As structure protection continues to be the utmost priority, crews say they will be mopping up and ensuring the hot spots in blackened areas near structures are extinguished and secure. Crews are building a safety line through the Hunts Lake area, and a hotshot crew is scouting potential areas to engage the fire along the western edge directly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A community meeting will be held today, 7 p.m. Mountain Time, at the Sorensen Administration Building, where firefighters will provide the latest update on the fire. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Monster Truck Accidentally Destroys Cars In Nearby Parking Lot originally appeared on The Spun. What was supposed to be a fun day watching the Malicious Monster Truck Tour turned into a disaster for some people. The Malicious Monster Truck Tour held a three-day event last weekend in Bremerton, Washington. During Sunday's show at Thunderbird Arena & Stadium, a wheel accidentally flew off a red, white and blue truck. The tire had so much momentum that it rolled out of the stadium and into a nearby parking lot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to reports, multiple cars in the parking lot were destroyed by this tire. One unlucky person came back to their vehicle completely crushed. Footage of this incident surfaced on Instagram. The video is as wild as you'd expect. "Monster trucks are unpredictable with what can happen and this is an example of that. Im just glad that nobody got hurt. I feel bad for whoever owned that car though," an Instagram user said. "Imagine being the ultimate dad excited for front row parking," a second person commented. "I don't even want to imagine if that was an indoor event," another user wrote. The Malicious Monster Truck Tour confirmed that no one was injured during this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Motorsports are unpredictable. The truck involved was running industry-standard wheel restraints. Fact is, there is no piece of metal in existence that will always stand up to the forces involved in monster truck competition. We were quickly in contact with both the Kitsap County Fair Board and a fencing company to collaborate on a plan of action to help reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future," the tour said in a statement. "Accidents happen, even unprecedented incidents such as this and we will always do everything we can to help further the safety of this great sport we all love." Next time you attend a monster truck show, you may want to park away from the stadium. Monster Truck Accidentally Destroys Cars In Nearby Parking Lot first appeared on The Spun on Jul 23, 2025 This story was originally reported by The Spun on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. MOORESVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A traffic stop in Mooresville led to a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle, which ended in a crash and the arrest of two suspects. On July 23, a Mooresville Police Department officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a motor vehicle for fictitious registration and equipment violations. The vehicle failed to stop, and officers pursued the vehicle, which fled south on I-77. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle crashed into the median barrier on I-77 in Cornelius. Two suspects fled the vehicle on foot, and after a brief foot pursuit, the passenger was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Mooresville Police Department K-9 track was conducted, which led to the arrest of the vehicles driver. The vehicle was determined to have been stolen from Belmont. A firearm and other tools/items used to steal motor vehicles were recovered from the suspects vehicle. Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area >> Latest stories here The driver, Julius Dwayne White, 20, of Charlotte, was charged with Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Speeding to Elude Arrest, Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Resist, Obstruct and Delay a Police Officer, and other motor vehicle law violations. He was transported to the Iredell County Detention Center, where he received a $75,000 bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The passenger of the vehicle, Tyler Kyharie Moore, 22, of Charlotte, was charged with Resist, Obstruct and Delay of a Police Officer. He was transported to the Iredell County Detention Center, where he received a $3,500 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 Queen City News. CoreCivic's Leavenworth Detention Center could serve as a detention center for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Allison Kite/Missouri Independent). The clergy, 250 strong, gathered on the steps of the Kansas City Convention Center. They proclaimed a clear, moral argument opposing the Trump administrations mass deportation campaign targeting immigrants. God knows no border was among the chants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were among thousands attending the United Church of Christ General Synod in Kansas City July 11-15. The group passed a resolution against the Trump administrations tactics on immigration, in addition to holding the prayer session and rally outside Bartle Hall. Their message about human dignity and fairness has echoed in recent weeks in nationwide protests and in Kansas City. God will win this conversation, the Rev. Randy Mayer of Arizona said. Still, there was wide acknowledgment that the burgeoning business of deportation is an imposing opponent, gilded with financial incentives. Were not naive, said the Rev. Sarah Griffith Lund, a native of Columbia, Missouri. Its about the money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lund, now a senior minister in Indianapolis, is on the UCCs national staff. Lund, like others in the group, said she was painfully aware of the profit motives entwined with the governments efforts on immigration. But she said respect for the humanity of immigrants targeted for deportation and concern for families who will be separated must remain the focus of faith communities. Mass deportation profit motive for CoreCivic Elsewhere, another view pushes the argument for well-paying jobs, tax revenue and funding for communities willing to play a role in the administrations goal of removing 3,000 undocumented immigrants daily. Leavenworth is a prime local example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There, the private prison company CoreCivic is in a legal battle with the city. The company is intent on opening an immigrant detention center capable of holding more than 1,000 people without obtaining a special use permit from the city. In a July 11 filing, a Kansas district court judge upheld a temporary injunction prohibiting CoreCivic from housing detainees, while legal arguments are weighed in the courts. CoreCivic signed a no-bid contract with the federal government that would pay it $4.2 million a month to house immigrants at the Leavenworth site, the Kansas Reflector reported. CoreCivic owns the property, which operated as a federal prison until December 2021. Clergy attending the United Church of Christ General Synod gathered outside of the Kansas City Convention Center last week. The group passed a resolution against the Trump administrations tactics on immigration (Mary Sanchez/The Beacon). The Leavenworth Detention Center closed after the Biden administration phased out federal contracts with privately operated prisons. The decision was made in part to reduce the profit incentives of incarceration and to address concerns of safety and racial equity. CoreCivics prison in Leavenworth experienced staffing problems, alleged violations of detainees rights and safety issues, including attacks on guards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CoreCivic is a Tennessee-based, publicly traded company that operates prisons and detention centers across the country. It reported total revenue of $2 billion and net income of $68.9 million in 2024. In recent months, CoreCivic has made charitable donations in Leavenworth, pumped a reported $500,000 into the local economy through contract labor at the former prison, and hired more than one-third of the workforce that it will need to operate the site as the Midwest Regional Reception Center. We want to reiterate our strong desire to work in close partnership with Leavenworth and its leaders, said Ryan Gustin, senior director of public affairs for CoreCivic. The $500,000 the company has spent locally since the beginning of the year includes contracts with lawn care crews, plumbers and electricians, Gustin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even when the bids we solicit come in slightly higher, we often choose the local option if we know the contractor understands our policies and security protocols, he said. Leavenworth officials argue that CoreCivic needs to obtain a special use permit to open its facility. City Manager Scott Peterson said the citys concerns include the facilitys past record of mismanagement and burden on core city services. CoreCivic maintains that it does not need a new permit. Gustin said the company has worked to both listen to and be transparent with the community. Were grateful for a more stable labor market now, and weve had a positive response from job seekers interested in the positions the facility will create, Gustin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress just ensured federal funding for deportation contracts like the one CoreCivic signed. President Donald Trump signed a measure dubbed the One Big Beautiful Bill on July 4. The bill included more than $170 billion for immigration enforcement, with $45 billion earmarked for more detention centers like CoreCivics. Congressional passage of the federal funding was closely watched by local groups, such as Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation of Kansas City. Karla Juarez, executive director of AIRR, also spoke at the recent rally outside the convention center in Kansas City She stood among those wearing clerical stoles and collars, hoisting posters of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico. The saint was pictured with the added message Her Love Melts ICE, a reference to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will not let our neighbors be disappeared in silence, Juarez said. We are sending a message to our community that you are not alone, we are here for you. The next day, Juarez led an evening session in southern Johnson County to build more support for immigrants, and to push back against the Trump administrations policies. The well-attended event was part of ongoing sessions by AIRR to train Kansas City area residents in immigrant rights and to draw allies to AIRRs efforts. Temporary injunction upheld Kansas 1st District Court Judge John Bryant last week upheld the temporary injunction stopping CoreCivic from opening the Leavenworth site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the latest in a litany of legal arguments surrounding CoreCivics plan to open the former prison as a detention center. CoreCivic maintains that it does not need a special use permit because it never shuttered or abandoned the site. We are pursuing all avenues to find a successful conclusion to this matter, Gustin said. We maintain the position that our facility, which weve operated for almost 30 years, does not require a special use permit to care for detainees in partnership with ICE. Bryant has noted that when the city revised development regulations in 2012, the then-federal prison was grandfathered in as an existing special use and a lawful conforming use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But by the end of 2021, the Biden administration moved to close such privately owned federal prisons. The companys contract with the U.S. Marshals Service expired. The city administratively rescinded the grandfathered permit on March 25, 2025. Bryant has also noted that the city must have the ability to regulate itself by enforcing its own laws. He concluded that upholding the temporary injunction also favors the public interest, because allowing CoreCivic to begin to house detainees without a proper determination on its permit status undermines the confidence and trust of the public in the citys ability to enforce its own regulations and ordinances. Bryant also has noted that in recent months, CoreCivics website listed the Leavenworth locations status as currently inactive. Mass deportation money for Leavenworth In spite of the ongoing legal fight, CoreCivic keeps hiring in Leavenworth. Gustin said the company as of July 1 had more than 2,000 unique applicants who have submitted more than 3,000 applications for jobs at the Leavenworth location. The company also emphasizes financial benefits the company has offered to Leavenworth. Those benefits include a one-time impact fee of $1 million, a $250,000 annual impact fee and an additional $150,000 annual impact fee to the police department. Those are in addition to more than $1 million in annual property taxes CoreCivic already pays. The company made a $10,000 donation to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 56 in Leavenworth earlier in 2025. The Salvation Army of Leavenworth also received $10,000 from CoreCivic. CoreCivic is betting that its financial impact may prove tempting to Leavenworth, which has a population of more than 37,000 and covers nearly 25 square miles. The city is known as a location for prisons, but also for the heavy military presence of Fort Leavenworth, which includes the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. But Leavenworth has an unemployment rate that is higher than the statewide unemployment rate, according to the citys last budget. The city also is concerned about an overreliance on sales taxes, which tend to be more volatile than property taxes. Leavenworth is holding study sessions for its upcoming budget. Peterson, the city manager, noted in an email that revenues from local sales taxes have declined in recent years and that the current proposed budget does not include pay raises for city staff. CoreCivic emphasizes those issues in its push for a detention center in Leavenworth. During a time when sales tax revenues are decreasing and pay raises for city workers are on hold, we feel strongly that an operational MRRC could help the city better navigate these budgetary constraints, said Gustin in an email. But CoreCivic isnt the only option for addressing Leavenworths budget concerns. Peterson said the city is pursuing savings by switching to the Kansas State Employee Health Plan. If successful, that will allow the city to reduce its mill levy and give pay raises for city staff. New development is also being pursued, he said. The City Commission is actively working on solutions to refilling Leavenworths historic downtown, and finding economic growth in other parts of the city, to address this need, Peterson said in an email. If CoreCivic is truly concerned about the Leavenworth community, and the role that CoreCivic can play in its growth, then Im sure they would be happy to apply for a special use permit, which is all that the city has asked them to do from the beginning, Peterson said. This article first appeared on Beacon: Kansas City and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. A babysitter facing charges related to sexual assault on a child will undergo competency evaluations to determine if he is fit to stand trial, an El Paso County judge ordered Wednesday. Vincent Smith, 27, of Westminster, faces a felony charge of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust. His arrest in May came after detectives learned Smith allegedly took a 12-year-old child he was babysitting to a hotel in October 2023 and touched him inappropriately. The woman who hired Smith told police she found his resume on a Colorado Springs babysitting page two years prior and hired him to watch her two children while she was at work. Smith was scheduled to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty on Wednesday after waiving his right to a preliminary hearing in June. The prosecution did not object to Smith's defense counsel raising the issue of competency, and Judge Chad Miller granted the request without much questioning. Featured Local Savings Smith will speak with at least one doctor, if not more, who will determine if Smith understands how the judicial system works and can assist his counsel in his defense. If found incompetent, Miller explained Smith will undergo restoration efforts. While it is uncommon for an individual to be found unrestorable, it can happen. The most recent case in the 4th Judicial District involved a Monument man cleared of vehicular homicide charges after multiple doctors testified under oath he would likely never be found competent. According to previous Gazette coverage of the case, this incident is not the first time Smith has faced sexual abuse charges. Smith formerly worked in Maryland, court records show. He was charged with sexual abuse on a minor in Baltimore County in 2013, Frederick County in 2019 and Montgomery County in 2019. Smith appeared out of custody Wednesday after posting his $150,000 bond in late May. He will appear next in a 4th Judicial District courtroom on Aug. 20. LONDON, JERUSALEM and GAZA -- In a joint statement, 115 organizations described the dire food shortage in Gaza as "mass starvation," as the "Israeli government's siege starves the people of Gaza." The organizations warned that some aid workers are now joining food lines in Gaza, saying they are "risking being shot just to feed their families." Repeated deadly shootings around aid distribution centers have killed hundreds, according to the United Nations. Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters - PHOTO: A Palestinian girl reacts as she waits to receive food from a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, in Gaza City, July 22, 2025. The World Health Organization said it is "determined to remain in the Gaza Strip" and called for the protection of WHO and U.N. agency personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a press conference Wednesday, "90% of Gaza's population face difficulty accessing water." Ten Palestinians died due to famine and malnutrition over the past 24 hours, according to a statement from the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health on Wednesday. More than 70 children have died from malnutrition in Gaza since the beginning of the year, according to the WHO. MORE: 15 dead, including 4 children, of malnutrition in Gaza over the past 24 hours, Hamas-run ministry says While a total number of 111 people died due to hunger since the beginning of the war, 25 of them, including at least four children, have died just in the past 48 hours, the ministry said. Many supplies are now totally depleted, according to aid organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The joint statement accused the Israeli government of implementing "restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege [that] have created chaos, starvation, and death." Citing reports from doctors, the statement warned of "record rates of acute malnutrition," saying they are being seen particularly among children and older people. An aid worker providing psychosocial support is quoted in part saying: "Children tell their parents they want to go to heaven, because at least heaven has food." Mahmoud Issa/Reuters - PHOTO: Palestinians wait to receive food from a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, in Gaza City, July 23, 2025. Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children and Oxfam International were among the international aid groups that signed the statement. Israeli government spokesman David Mencer pushed back, saying "there is no famine" in Gaza, in an online briefing Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mencer blamed Hamas and called the food crisis in Gaza "a man-made shortage engineered by Hamas." "Suffering exists because Hamas has made it so," Mencer added. The IDF has previously said the incidents at aid sites were under review, but has also said it fired "warning shots" toward people who were allegedly "advancing while posing a threat to the troops." MORE: 'Indescribable' crisis deepens for many mothers, malnourished children in Gaza as IDF expands military operation Mencer said 2 million meals were distributed to Gazans on Monday and that 87 million meals have been distributed since the U.S.- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation distribution system began in late May. The U.N. and other aid organizations have refused to collaborate with the group, citing concerns about its transparency and political impartiality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli spokesman said Hamas had "stepped-up efforts to prevent" the distribution of food in Gaza and accused Hamas of "deliberately" placing Gazans "at risk of hunger" by disrupting distribution sites. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation pushed back on the criticism in a statement to ABC News. "While Oxfam, MSF and these other groups hold press conferences and send out threatening letters, GHF is on the ground feeding people," a GHF spokesperson said. "We've delivered more than 86 million meals in less than two months. Not talking points, not headlines, but food reaching Palestinian families every single day. Meanwhile, many of these organizations, and the UN who they front for, are standing by helplessly as their aid is looted." "We've offered to help them deliver it safely. They've refused. The humanitarian community must return to its core mission -- feeding people -- not protecting outdated systems or avoiding the discomfort of change. Bureaucracy and ego should never stand in the way of getting aid to those who need it most. We're here. We're ready. Let's feed people," the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,000 people have been killed by Israeli gunfire since GHF opened its aid distribution sites on May 27 in Gaza. "This is over 1000 plus since the 27th of May when the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation started distributing food and people have been shot both while trying to collect food in these distribution centers where Gaza Humanitarian Foundation distributes, but also when there have been UN convoys and other aid convoys getting into Gaza and people have tried to jump on those trucks and have been shot and killed," Ajith Sunghay, from the Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said. By Daphne Psaledakis (Reuters) -More than 100 largely aid and rights groups on Wednesday called for governments to take action as hunger spreads in Gaza, including by demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the lifting of all restrictions on the flow of humanitarian aid. In a statement signed by 111 organizations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Refugees International, the groups warned that mass starvation was spreading across the enclave even as tons of food, clean water, medical supplies and other items sit untouched just outside Gaza as humanitarian organizations are blocked from accessing or delivering them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As the Israeli governments siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families. With supplies now totally depleted, humanitarian organisations are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes," the organizations said. "The Government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death." The organizations called for governments to demand that all bureaucratic and administrative restrictions be lifted, all land crossings be opened, access to everyone across Gaza to be ensured and for the rejection of military-controlled distribution and a restoration of a "principled, UN-led humanitarian response." "States must pursue concrete measures to end the siege, such as halting the transfer of weapons and ammunition." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel, which controls all supplies entering Gaza, denies it is responsible for shortages of food. More than 800 people have been killed in recent weeks trying to reach food, mostly in mass shootings by Israeli soldiers posted near Gaza Humanitarian Foundation distribution centers. The foundation, backed by the United States, has been fiercely criticized by humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, for an alleged lack of neutrality. Israeli forces have killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in airstrikes, shelling and shooting since launching their assault on Gaza in response to attacks on Israel by the Hamas group that killed 1,200 people and captured 251 hostages in October 2023. For the first time since the war began, Palestinian officials say dozens are now also dying of hunger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaza has seen its food stocks run out since Israel cut off all supplies to the territory in March and then lifted that blockade in May with new measures it says are needed to prevent aid from being diverted to militant groups. The Norwegian Refugee Council told Reuters on Tuesday its aid stocks were completely depleted in Gaza, with some of its staff now starving, and the organization accused Israel of paralysing its work. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis; Editing by Michelle Nichols and Stephen Coates) More than 100 aid and human rights groups have called on governments to take urgent action as Israels forced mass starvation of Palestinians engulfs Gaza, including by demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the lifting of all restrictions on humanitarian aid. In a statement signed and released on Wednesday by 109 organisations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Doctors Without Borders (also known as MSF), the groups warned that deepening starvation of the population was spreading across the besieged enclave. Tonnes of food, clean water, medical supplies and other items sit untouched just outside Gaza as humanitarian organisations are blocked from accessing or delivering them by Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Israeli governments siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families. With supplies now totally depleted, humanitarian organisations are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes, the organisations said. The humanitarian system cannot run on false promises The Government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death, the statement added. Ten new deaths linked to famine and malnutrition have been recorded during the past 24 hours by hospitals in the Gaza Strip, according to the Ministry of Health. The grim count brings the total number of people starved to death in the territory to 111, the ministrys statement said. In recent weeks, more than 1,000 desperate people have been killed trying to reach food, mostly in mass shootings by Israeli soldiers posted near GHF distribution centres, according to the United Nations. The notorious group, backed by the United States and Israel, has been fiercely criticised by humanitarian organisations, including the UN, for an alleged lack of neutrality since starting operations in late May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NGOs also called for governments to demand that all bureaucratic and administrative restrictions be lifted, all land crossings be opened, access to everyone across Gaza to be ensured and for the rejection of military-controlled distribution and a restoration of a principled, UN-led humanitarian response. States must pursue concrete measures to end the siege, such as halting the transfer of weapons and ammunition. More than two dozen countries called on Monday for an immediate end to the war, saying suffering in Gaza had reached new depths. The EU has also warned Israel of action over the worsening starvation crisis in Gaza, as the US said Trumps envoy, Steve Witkoff, will head to Europe for ceasefire talks and an aid corridor. Peak level of starvation Israel, which controls all supplies, food, medicine and fuel entering Gaza, has imposed a punishing blockade for months, only partially easing it for GHF. The Israeli government denies it is responsible for food shortages, despite evidence to the contrary, claiming that 950 trucks worth of aid were in Gaza and waiting for international agencies to collect and distribute it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas has urged all the free people of the world to organise demonstrations, sit-ins and angry marches on July 25, 26, 27 and all the coming days, until the siege is broken and the famine ends in Gaza. [] people are dying of hunger and malnutrition, and famine is making its deadly presence felt in the faces of children, mothers, and the elderly, amidst a suspicious global silence, and the absence of any action that rises to the scale of the catastrophe, its statement published on Telegram said. GHF said in a statement that the UN, which refuses to work with it, has a capacity and operational problem and called for more collaboration to deliver life-saving aid. Mara Bernasconi, the regional communications and advocacy manager for Humanity & Inclusion UK, an NGO with teams working in Gaza, told Al Jazeera that Gaza is at the peak level of starvation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said humanitarian workers living in Gaza are not excluded from this suffering and have experienced death, hunger, displacement, danger for 21 months of war. They are struggling to concentrate and function [while performing their jobs] because they face directly the effect of dehydration and malnutrition, and we are watching them starve to death, and its insane, because this is a man-made humanitarian crisis and is deteriorating daily because its allowed by impunity and inaction, Bernasconi said. Medical personnel and journalists continue to work under intensive duress, worsened by their own hunger. We continue our work despite the spreading famine and the severe shortage of food supplies. I havent had a single meal in the past two days, and Im barely holding on, Raja al-Attar, an ambulance driver, told Al Jazeera. My family is also struggling they cant access even the most basic necessities. We were forced to flee our home in Deir el-Balah because of the ongoing military operation. Right now, Im sleeping at my workplace, because theres nowhere else to go. A murder in Maine that seems like it was taken right out of a Stephen King novel has shaken the communities surrounding Crawford Pond. 17-year-old Deven Young was charged with murder after 48-year-old Sunshine Stewart went missing during a paddleboard trip. Stewart and a friend were staying at the Mic Mac Campground in early July when she decided to go for a paddleboard ride. Her friend went to look for her by the lake when she didn't return to the cabin later that night, sparking a week's long search by camp staff and local police. Campground owner Katharine Lunt told ABC News about the details surrounding the search efforts, "we first thought that maybe she was hurt," she said, "maybe she had been hit by a boat. We had no idea why she hadn't returned." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lunt details law enforcement and her own staff sifting through security footage around the lake, trying to catch a glimpse of the missing Stewart or somebody who may have intruded into the campsite and hurt her. "I was looking for a stranger, somebody out of the ordinary," Lunt said, "absolutely nobody was looking for a child." Reports claim that the defendant Deven Young seemed eager to help police find the missing woman. Lunt recalls him bringing investigators on "a wild goose chase," taking them in the opposite direction of Stewart's body to avoid its discovery. Lunt apparently stated that the 17-year-old was "acting totally normal" for two weeks following Stewart's disappearance, "it's haunting," she said. She suggested that his own insistence on helping the police led them to suspect Young himself. Two weeks after Stewart's disappearance, on July 16, Young was interrogated and later arrested and charged with murder. The defendant is currently in a juvenile detention center and awaiting trial. He pleaded not guilty to his charges. State prosecutors in Maine are looking to try the 17-year-old as an adult, which would give Young a harsher and longer prison sentence should he be found guilty. More Details Emerge in Teen's Arrest in Murder of Maine Paddleboarder first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 22, 2025 MOREHEAD, Ky. (FOX 56) The man accused of killing a Morehead teenager overnight on Sunday faces new charges, including a potential ICE detainer. Martinez was arrested on Sunday after allegedly shooting his girlfriends two children, killing 15-year-old Luis Jocsan Nanez Lopez. Earlier that night, Lopez had stepped in in an attempt to stop Martinez from forcing himself on his mother. RELATED: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An arrest citation, initially filed under John Doe, has since been identified as Martinez. It details what happened in the moments after shots were fired inside the West Sun Street apartment. I heard loud noises resembling gunshots and the sound of a woman screaming, said the responding officer, who was stationed a street over, radar monitoring traffic. When officers arrived, they saw a man, later identified as Martinez, fleeing. His girlfriend told officers that he was armed and had just injured her son. Court documents note that he was found down the road, hiding in the bushes. After a standoff that lasted several hours, Morehead polices Special Response Team used pepper balls to lure Martinez out of the shrubbery. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A citation filed on Tuesday, July 22, additionally charged Martinez with: Alcohol intoxication in a public place Second-degree fleeing or evading police Resisting arrest Second-degree disorderly conduct He was initially charged with murder, first-degree assault, and first-degree attempted rape. His bond remains at $1,000,000. Barr: Accused Morehead shooter not a U.S. Citizen Rep. Andy Barr reportedly spoke with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Tuesday, July 22, and confirmed that 36-year-old Gildardo Martinez was not a U.S. citizen. A representative from Barrs team told FOX 56 that ICE has requested an immigration detainer, which would alert federal officials if Martinez were released. (Andy Barr on X @barrforsenate) An arrest citation obtained by FOX 56 notes that Martinez was a part-time Kentucky resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX 56 has reached out to ICE representatives for a statement and has yet to hear back. The Rowan County Detention Center, where Marinez is lodged, declined to 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 FOX 56 News. Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon, left, and Republican gubernatorial nominee Jack Ciattarelli at Johnnies Tavern in Boonton on July 23, 2025. (Photo by Reena Rose Sibayan for New Jersey Monitor) BOONTON Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli announced Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon as his pick for lieutenant governor Wednesday at Johnnies Tavern in Gannons hometown. Gannon, 64, who is serving his third term as sheriff, fired up supporters crowded inside Johnnies with attacks on Trentons Democratic leadership and a pledge to flip the governorship to GOP control after Novembers general election. Ciattarelli will face Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey, under one-party Democratic rule in Trenton, is broken, Gannon said. Trenton Democrats are rewarding lawbreakers and coddling criminals, while making things harder for all the good people who work hard and play by the rules. Gannon asked the crowd if they are better off now than they were before Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, was elected in 2017, and it responded that they are not. He said it is time for a change. Phil Murphy, Mikie Sherrill, and Trenton Democrats made this mess. That last thing we should do is to trust them to clean it up, Gannon said. That is why, over these next 104 days, I plan to do everything in my power to spread Jacks positive message of common-sense solutions and transformative change for our state. Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon arriving at Johnnies Tavern in Boonton on July 23, 2025. (Reena Rose Sibayan for New Jersey Monitor) Before becoming sheriff, Gannon was a patrol officer in Boonton Township and Boonton, deputy chief of investigations in the Morris County Prosecutors Office, and served on the FBIs joint terrorism task force. He was also head of security risk at Morris County-based Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gannon was elected to his first three-year term as sheriff in 2016. He won nearly 60% of the vote when he ran for reelection in 2019 and ran unopposed in 2022. Though Morris County has been trending Democratic in some elections, it votes Republican in gubernatorial races. Much of it is represented in Congress by Sherrill. I read a quote from someone this morning that said, Thank you, Jim, for all your excellent work, and making this community better. That was Mikie Sherrill, Ciattarelli said. Sherrill posted a picture of herself with Gannon on social media in 2021, a post that praised the Morris County Sheriffs Office, saying it has aided law enforcement & kept communities safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gannon said his policy priorities if elected with Ciattarelli include cutting property taxes and capping them based on home value, freezing property taxes for seniors, expanding energy production, lowering electricity bills, revising the school funding formula, and restoring cooperation between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and local law enforcement. Were a campaign thats about people, not power or politics. Jim Gannons always been a man of the people, Ciattarelli said. And this campaign is all about a vision for New Jersey, not division. State Sen. Tony Bucco (R-Morris), who spoke at the event, said voters are fed up with the states direction. People are making hard choices whether to buy medicine or put food on their table. Thats not the New Jersey I know and love, Bucco said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alex Ball, Sherrills campaign manager, said in a statement that Ciattarellis announcement of Gannon as his running mate shows Ciattarelli is on the defense. Trailing badly in the polls, Ciattarelli is clearly playing defense in Morris County, a traditional GOP stronghold where Mikie has consistently won and overperformed, as New Jersey voters gear up to reject him a third time around, Ball said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Russia and Ukraine have agreed on another prisoner exchange during their negotiations in Turkey, with each side to hand over 1,200 prisoners, Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky told journalists in Istanbul after the talks on Wednesday evening. Medinsky stated that severely injured individuals are also to be exchanged along the front. Ukraine confirmed the planned continuation of the exchanges but did not specify any concrete numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medinsky said that Russia has also offered the return of 3,000 more Ukrainian fallen soldiers. According to him, Moscow has already handed over some 7,000 bodies. The Russian presidential adviser and former culture minister praised the implementation of the previous agreements, saying, "All agreements from the last time were adhered to." The last agreed exchange of 250 people each is currently taking place at the Belarusian-Ukrainian border. Nearly three and a half years after the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, representatives of both countries resumed their recently stalled direct talks in Istanbul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Television footage showed delegations from both sides gathered at the Cragan Palace on the Bosporus. The talks, scheduled for 7 pm (1600 GMT), began with a delay of nearly an hour and a half. Prior to this, the two chief negotiators had met for a brief one-on-one discussion. The meeting in the larger group lasted only 40 minutes. Russia and Ukraine have agreed on another prisoner exchange during their negotiations in Turkey, with each side to hand over 1,200 prisoners, Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky told journalists in Istanbul after the talks on Wednesday evening. Medinsky stated that severely injured individuals are also to be exchanged along the front. Ukraine confirmed the planned continuation of the exchanges but did not specify any concrete numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medinsky said that Russia has also offered the return of 3,000 more Ukrainian fallen soldiers. According to him, Moscow has already handed over some 7,000 bodies. The Russian presidential adviser and former culture minister praised the implementation of the previous agreements, saying, "All agreements from the last time were adhered to." Nearly three and a half years after the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, representatives of both countries resumed their recently stalled direct talks in Istanbul. Latest exchange takes place as talks held Russia and Ukraine completed the final prisoner exchange agreed at the last round of talks on the same day as the latest talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Currently, the Russian soldiers are on the territory of the Republic of Belarus," the Ministry of Defence in Moscow announced on Telegram. Medinsky said that 250 prisoners of war were exchanged on each side. In total, the number of those exchanged amounts to over 2,400. Shortly afterwards, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the latest exchange. "Today, the ninth round of exchanges agreed upon in Istanbul has already taken place," the head of state wrote on Telegram. More than 1,000 Ukrainians have been returned by the Russians, he said. Brief and concise meeting Television footage showed delegations from both sides gathered at the Cragan Palace on the Bosporus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The talks, scheduled for 7 pm (1600 GMT), began with a delay of nearly an hour and a half. Prior to this, the two chief negotiators had met for a brief one-on-one discussion. The meeting in the larger group lasted only 40 minutes. Low expectations in advance Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said before the start of the negotiations that the ultimate goal was a ceasefire that would pave the way to peace. However, a breakthrough in this third round of negotiations was considered unlikely in advance. Zelensky had tempered expectations. For Kiev, the expansion of the prisoner exchange and the return of children that Russia had abducted from the occupied territories were priorities, he said on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the day of the negotiations, he stated in his video message that Ukraine would also demand an "immediate and complete ceasefire." The Russian leadership has been rejecting this demand for months. US President Donald Trump had made a corresponding proposal in March. Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected this, arguing that the Ukrainians would use the ceasefire to rearm and reposition their troops. Nevertheless, the Kremlin had stated that it expected Wednesday's meeting to bring the previously opposing positions of Moscow and Kiev closer regarding the conditions for a ceasefire. However, "great diplomatic work" was needed for this, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Negotiators know each other The chief negotiator of the Ukrainian team was once again the former defence minister and newly appointed secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, Rustem Umerov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medinsky, who led the Russian side, wore a T-shirt with the inscription "Putin Team" upon his arrival in Turkey. According to information from Ankara, the head of the Turkish intelligence service MIT, Ibrahim Kaln, and the chief of the general staff, Metin Gurak, also participated in the talks. Many open disputes remain Apparently, no agreement has been reached on further issues so far. Umerov stated at his press conference that his delegation had proposed to the Russians to hold a summit between Zelensky, Putin, Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan by the end of August. Meanwhile, Medinsky said that a meeting at the presidential level should serve not for negotiations but for their conclusion. Therefore, he said there must be agreement on the paths to peace beforehand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A short-term ceasefire proposed by Russia, lasting between 24 and 48 hours at individual front sections, was reportedly rejected by Ukraine. A ceasefire must be genuine and include a halt to attacks on infrastructure and civilians, Umerov said, clarifying Kiev's position. However, both sides expect the negotiations to continue. Moscow and Kiev resumed direct talks in May for the first time since 2022. Nearly 30 people gathered at U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank's office in Colorado Springs for a Medicaid "funeral," protesting the Republican lawmaker's support for President Donald Trump's so-called Big, Beautiful Bill. Protesters shared "dearly beloved"-style eulogies, commemorating Medicaid and other public services that have affected their lives and may soon be lost. Several attendees shared the history of Medicaid and other safety-net benefits like Social Security, emphasizing that the services were created to serve Americans. "This is not being conservative, this is just being cruel. Please understand that the supposed savings coming from Medicaid reductions will only give very rich billionaires more tax money. It begs the question: Why do we even pay taxes?" said Lois Page, a Colorado Springs resident. Demonstrators afterward went into Crank's office, two at a time, to sign their names to letters addressed to the representative about their grievances. The bill was passed by the U.S. House on May 22 with Crank's support. In a press release, Crank stated that the bill "will deliver for the American people by securing our borders, extending tax cuts, unleashing American energy, and making our nation stronger than ever before. Now it is time for the Senate to deliver this bill to the President's desk." According to Medicaid's official website, over 78 million, or one-fifth of Americans are enrolled in Medicaid. A study conducted by the National Bureau of Economic Research suggests that the service saves thousands of lives annually. The Big, Beautiful Bill is a 1,100-page budget bill that currently proposes cutting Medicaid funding by $785 billion by 2035, according to reporting by Reuters. The Senate has yet to vote on the legislation. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) Over 70% of registered voters in California City said in a survey conducted in July they are unhappy with the citys leadership and its current direction. According to the California Citys city council meeting agenda for Tuesday, 130 registered voters in California City participated in a survey between July 7 and July 13. While the survey was being conducted, California Citys city council held a meeting July 8, at which two councilmembers abruptly resigned after allegations of racism. The conflict arose when California Citys mayor Marquette Hawkins requested $1,000 of city money for membership in the African American Mayors Association and a few councilmembers expressed budget concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They get to be a kid: Bristol Hospice camp creates space for kids learning how to grieve In the survey, 71% of voters said California City is on the wrong track and 77% said they disapprove of the job done by the citys leadership. Voters aged 18 to 34 and non-white voters were slightly less critical of the citys direction and leadership, the negative results hovering at less than 70% for both groups. When asked if the citys government responds well to its citizens, 68% of voters said no, with 42% answering strongly disagree. According to the survey, 34% of voters said the citys top priority should be improving infrastructure and repairing streets. This was the top priority for all demographics across political affiliations, genders, ages and racial backgrounds, followed by economic development and job creation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A whopping 91% of voters said they were dissatisfied with California Citys street maintenance and repair. Ninety-five percent said it is important for the city to undertake projects to fix the streets and potholes throughout the city. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage The voters responses to the fire and police departments were much more positive, with three out of four voters saying they were satisfied with the fire departments response time over half voting very satisfied and 57% saying the same for police. When the survey asked if they would approve of a parcel tax to fund community and infrastructure improvements in California City, 49% of voters said yes and 32% voted no, with 16% being undecided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voters who were most against the idea of a parcel tax were Republicans. Among white voters, as well as those over the age of 55, more individuals said no than yes to a parcel tax, according to the survey. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News. The average American doesnt have much faith in the nations major institutions. Gallup asks Americans annually how much they trust 18 national institutions. Of those, nine have been tracked consistently since 1979, according to the polling company. Only 28% of Americans expressed confidence in those nine major institutions including organized religion, the military, the U.S. Supreme Court, banks, public schools, newspapers, Congress, labor unions and big business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And thats been the trend for the last four years in a row, as overall trust continues to land below 30 percentage points. Even as the numbers remain low, partisan trend lines have flipped somewhat after Republican President Donald Trump replaced former Democratic President Joe Biden earlier this year. Growing divide among Americans Confidence among Republicans for major institutions rose nine points to 37% this year. But Democrats went in the opposite direction, as confidence levels dropped five points from last year to 26%. According to Gallups past readings, the 11-percentage-point gap between members of the two political parties is the highest its been in 46 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. voters experienced a similar division of nine percentage points under George W. Bush in 2007, when the Iraq War was still raging. As for independent voters, their confidence levels have hovered at around a 25% average for the last three years. Most Trusted institutions A majority of voters expressed a great deal or quite a lot of confidence in small business (70%), the military (62%) and science (61%), per Gallup. Least Trusted institutions Congress and television news ranked the lowest on the trust meter, receiving a confidence rating of 6% and 11% respectively. Partisan divides GOP confidence in the presidency skyrocketed by 73 points to 80%. Confidence in the military and police also experienced an 18 points boost to 88% and 80%, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican attitudes toward the U.S. Supreme Court, which holds a 6-3 conservative majority, remained similar to last year at 48%. On Church or Organized religion, 64% of Republicans expressed a great deal or quite a lot of confidence, compared to 30% of independents and 21% of Democrats. Democratic trust in several American institutions plummeted in this years poll. Compared to last year, confidence in the presidency dropped by 58 percentage points to 3%. Similarly, Democrats confidence in police (29%) and military (44%) dropped by 16 points and 21 points, respectively. Their trust in the criminal justice system, technological companies and newspapers also saw a double-digit decline in contrast with 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Democrats expressed increased confidence in two U.S. institutions public schools (44%) and higher education (61%). Only 18% of Republicans expressed a high level of trust in public schools, and 26% said the same of higher education. ANKENY, Iowa A mother and son are facing charges connected to a violent home invasion that happened earlier this month in Ankeny. Gemiere Goodwin, 27, and Merrelita Kintz, 45, are being held in the Polk County Jail. They are both charged with: Attempted Murder Burglary 1st Degree Robbery 1st Degree Willful Injury Causing Serious Injury Theft 2nd Degree Unauthorized Use of Credit Card Gemiere Goodwin and Merrelita Kintz The Ankeny Police Department said the charges are connected to a July 1 burglary in which an elderly victim was beaten and strangled, and suffered serious injuries. The victim was treated for the injuries at the hospital and later released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said cash, a gun, and personal documents were stolen from the home in the incident. Goodwin was identified as a suspect by investigators and he was found at a smoke and vape store in Des Moines on July 3rd. During the arrest, Goodwin resisted, and an Ankeny Detective and a Des Moines Officer suffered minor injuries. Goodwin was found to have the stolen gun on him as well as other stolen items with the victims name at the time of his arrest. He was additionally charged with: Interference with Official Acts with a Firearm Interference with Official Acts Causing Injury More evidence gathered following the execution of a search warrant at Goodwins residence showed that his mother, Kintz, conspired with him in the execution of the crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kintz was arrested on Tuesday. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 1st. Court records show Goodwin is set to be arraigned in the case on August 25th. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Deputies in Lee County said a mother and son worked together to pull off an armed robbery of an arcade. Investigators said Jose Baez Suarez, 22, allegedly entered the Kings World Arcade on July 18 and held the cashier at gunpoint. Deputies said he later fled with an undisclosed amount of cash, while his mother, Yideyla Suarez Cedeno, 43, acted as the getaway driver. Investigators said surveillance footage from inside the arcade and a nearby business helped them identify the suspects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said footage showed the suspect running and jumping into a RAV4, which was later located by deputies. Deputies said they used several crime-fighting tools, including license plate readers, to track the vehicle. Upon locating the RAV4, deputies detained Yideyla Suarez Cedeno, who was driving, and her son, Jose Baez Suarez, who was also present at the scene. Detectives said they recovered clothing and a black BB gun resembling the weapon used in the robbery. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A motorcyclist is dead after crashing into a light pole in the early morning hours of Wednesday, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan police. LVMPD investigates a deadly motorcycle crash on Carey Avenue on July 23, 2025. (KLAS) The crash was reported shortly after 1 a.m. on Carey Avenue near Christy Lane. An investigation is underway into the crash. No other 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 KLAS. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) A man was seriously injured Tuesday following a crash involving a motorcycle and a car in the Point Loma Heights neighborhood, authorities said. According to the San Diego Police Department, the collision occurred mid-block in the 4400 block of West Point Loma Boulevard, where a 28-year-old woman driving a 2018 Honda Civic was pulling out of a private driveway. The woman attempted to make a left turn and entered the path of an oncoming motorcycle. The motorcycle, a 2002 Harley Davidson driven by a 53-year-old man traveling eastbound, struck the vehicle at that time, police said. The impact caused the rider to sustain multiple injuries, including fractures to his pelvis and an open fracture to his left arm. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. His current condition has not been released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SDPDs Traffic Division responded to the scene and is handling the investigation. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the department or call Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. MAPUTO (Reuters) -Mozambique is seeking to prosecute the country's main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, over civil unrest that followed a disputed election last year, a document presented to Mondlane by prosecutors showed. Mondlane, who says President Daniel Chapo of the long-ruling Frelimo party won the election through vote-rigging, was summoned by prosecutors on Tuesday. He was shown the 40-page document laying out a series of accusations including that he incited the unrest. An adviser to Mondlane shared the document with Reuters on Wednesday and said the opposition politician denied all the prosecutors' accusations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors in the resource-rich Southern African country declined to comment. The post-election protests, in which more than 300 people were killed, were the largest against Frelimo since independence from Portuguese colonial rule in 1975. Frelimo denies allegations of electoral fraud, though Western observers say October's vote was not free and fair. There had been indications that Chapo and Mondlane were looking to build bridges, as the two politicians met for talks in March and again in May. Chapo also launched a "national dialogue" and invited Mondlane to serve on a presidential advisory body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louw Nel, a political analyst at Oxford Economics Africa, said attempts to prosecute Mondlane would "weigh on the political compromise Mozambique's political actors reached in March". (Reporting by Manuel Mucari and Custodio Cossa; Additional reporting by Kopano Gumbi;Writing by Alexander Winning; Editing by Aidan Lewis) WESTERVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) As lawmakers at the Ohio Statehouse talk about property tax relief, Westerville City Schools is putting an earned income tax levy on the November ballot. Most recent school levies in central Ohio are property tax levies, but some said an earned income tax levy could be more appealing to voters, especially those on a fixed income. Westerville City Schools voters will see a 0.75 percent earned income tax levy in November, which means people who are retired, on social security or unemployed will not be taxed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio House overrides one budget veto, hoping to provide property tax relief Theres a potential future ballot issue that would eliminate property taxes in the state of Ohio, Westerville City Schools Treasurer Nicole Marshall said. Weve heard a lot of lawmakers, you know, theyre focused on property tax reform. With property taxes so high, Marshall said she thought the best thing for the district was an income tax levy. We were very much mindful of we have senior citizens who are worried about being able to stay in their homes, that are retired, and that we do think that this would be a relief to them, Marshall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill Phillis, a consultant for the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding, noted that with many local property tax levies failing in recent years, it makes sense for districts to try a different approach, especially in communities with many residents on fixed incomes. A lot of the older folks who, you know, dont have as much income as they did in previous years, thats kind of a good deal for them, Phillis said. For the, you know, high salaried folks, its not such a good deal. Olentangy coach resigns amid investigation into inappropriate text messages With the most recent state budget, Phillis said the burden of paying for public education is falling more on local taxpayers. He said he could see more districts following in Westervilles footsteps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If they dont solve that and keep pushing it back to the local level, then I assume that there might be some more interest in the income tax, Phillis said. For residents earning $60,000 a year, the levy, if approved, would cost $450 annually, Marshall said. To calculate how much the levy would cost you annually, multiply your annual salary by .0075. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A central Las Vegas valley road was closed Tuesday night after a multi-vehicle crash that hospitalized five people, according to Metro police. On Tuesday, around 8:30 p.m., Metro police responded to a report of a multi-vehicle crash near the intersection of Decatur and Charleston boulevards. The crash involved a white pickup truck, a red pickup truck, and a sedan. Police said the white pickup truck was driving northbound on Decatur approaching Charleston when it clipped the sedan. The white pickup truck then overcorrected and hit the red pickup truck head-on, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five people were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries, according to Metro police. Decatur Boulevard was closed in both directions south of Charleston Boulevard. Drivers were asked to avoid 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 KLAS. Protests against proposed federal immigration detention facilities were held on two fronts in Colorado Springs on Tuesday. More than 70 people gathered to ask the El Paso County Board of County Commissioners to speak out against proposed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities. Federal documents obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union state that six new facilities could be coming to Colorado, with two to be located in Colorado Springs. More than a dozen of the protesters spoke at the commissioners' meeting at Centennial Hall downtown, asking that the all-Republican board oppose installment of the facilities. Commissioners have been outspoken in their support for collaborating with ICE to remove illegal immigrants, stating on multiple occasions their stance against El Paso County becoming a sanctuary jurisdiction. "The El Paso County Commissioners fully support the efforts of our federal partners, including ICE, to secure our borders, enforce immigration laws and remove criminal illegal aliens from our communities," a spokesperson for the commissioners told The Gazette in an emailed statement following Tuesday's protest. "While we are not directly involved and have no specific knowledge of ICE's plans regarding local facilities, we continue to support their role in promoting national and community safety." Dozens of visibly frustrated attendees filled the seats during the meeting as the board members' stance drew heated statements from protesters, some of whom called out the commissioners for not paying attention or appearing to display dispassionate faces during their statements. Protesters compared the immigrant detention centers to Nazi concentration camps, including a Colorado Springs resident who had family members who survived them. "They were rounded up for who they were, so just for living. And it breaks my heart to think that people who are here just living, contributing to our communities, raising their families ... are being rounded up, not committing any crimes and being whisked away, kidnapped and put into these centers," Deborah Greymoon told the commissioners. Others spoke to their own personal experiences. Margarita Trevino Waters, an immigrant from Mexico who has lived in the U.S. for 25 years, said her life here has been "fantastic" until now. "Now, I have to carry my immigration papers and my passport picture everywhere I go. Am I going to be detained? Am I going to be going to these ICE detention centers?" she said. At least 25 people spoke at the meeting, including former state Rep. Stephanie Vigil of Colorado Springs. People in the crowd waved their hands or stood in support at the end of every statement. There were three moments when the crowd clapped or cheered, but they were asked to be quiet each time by board chair Carrie Geitner. No commissioner responded when asked if they still support a 2024 lawsuit that claims state statutes that keep local law enforcement from working with federal immigration authorities are illegal and unconstitutional. Christian Rice, a 29-year-old Latino man who spoke to the board, told The Gazette after the meeting that, while he can't speak for all them, it seemed as though many of them, including Geitner, weren't listening to the "real fear" that people shared. On Tuesday evening, more than 60 protesters gathered outside the El Paso County Sheriff's Office to protest for a similar cause. "Disappeared in America" focuses on those who have been arrested by immigration agents and are unaccounted for. The event was organized by Indivisible Colorado Springs, a political group that has an immigration committee that focuses on injustice against immigrants. The protesters largely focused on the plans for two detention facilities that could come to the Springs and the position that the Sheriff's Office holds in immigration decisions. Sheriff Joe Roybal has supported the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and its immigration initiatives. Since May, Roybal has signed off on transferring 35 people from county to ICE custody, and has released at least two statements declaring the office's collaboration with immigration officials. Brandon Rancon, chair of the Colorado Springs Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, led chants outside the office calling out Roybal, asking "how many children have you deported today?" and calling for "no more raids." Rancon told The Gazette "We stand directly opposed to the Sheriff's Office working with ICE. We demand an end to the city and county collusion with immigration and immigration enforcement. We demand ICE off of our streets." Don Klingner, a 78-year-old city resident, said he has been protesting for immigrant rights since 1966, and he fears that history is being repeated. "The poem, 'first they came for the socialists,' is only four lines long. People better get it pretty quickly," he said. Klingner is referring to the famous Holocaust poem, "First They Came," written by Martin Niemoller in 1946, according to the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust Organization. The poem delves into the systemic oppression that occurred in Nazi Germany. Protesters surrounded the Sheriff's Office for over an hour. "A lot of people can't be out here, using their voices, because they could lose their jobs. Well, I'm retired, and I'd like to see what they do to a 78-year-old grandpa," Klingner said. The School Town of Munster Board of Trustees will vote to hire Matthew Hicks as the districts next superintendent at a special board meeting Monday. The district announced Wednesday that it had concluded its search for a new Superintendent of Schools, following the departure of Bret Heller at the end of June. It has extended an offer to Hicks, who most recently served as the superintendent of Northeastern Wayne schools in Richmond, Indiana. He has served in that post since 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following a comprehensive and competitive process, the Board is confident Dr. Hicks is the right leader to continue the districts positive momentum and guide us into the future, according to a statement on the districts website. The board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday to hear public comments on the contract and conduct a formal vote. Hicks base salary will be $215,000 annually, according to the proposed contract on the districts website. If he receives an effective or highly effective rating on performance evaluation, he will receive at least the same raise as other administrators. The proposed superintendent contract is available online: https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1752808272/munsterus/mu6hgpibrq1nanx0zjtz/SuperitendentContractFINAL.pdf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previously, Hicks was the principal of Northeastern High School from 2018-2020 and assistant principal of Noblesville West Middle School from 2012-2018, according to his LinkedIn profile. On May 25, 2018, while Hicks was at Noblesville West, a student shot and injured another student and a teacher. Hicks serves on the Principal Recovery Network, which was created by the National Association of Secondary School Principals so principals who have experienced school shootings can support one another and lobby elected officials to support student mental health resources, according to the Western Wayne News. He received his bachelors degree from Purdue University, a masters degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, and an educational doctorate from Ball State University, according to LinkedIn. GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA) A man wanted for murder in Gaffney has been arrested. The Gaffney Police Department released an update Tuesday morning that 35-year-old Anthony Lee Jefferies Jr. was booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center. A week-long search for Jefferies was initiated after police identified him as the suspected shooter at a nightclub on West Birnie Street on July 13. 46-year-old Joshua Wood was found shot at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died during surgery. Jefferies has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, according to police. The shooting remains an ongoing investigation by the Gaffney PD. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (NewsNation) President Donald Trumps attorney said Rupert Murdoch is not really treating him all that fairly as Trump filed a multibillion-dollar lawsuit against the media mogul and News Corp over a Wall Street Journal report linking Trump to Jeffrey Epstein. Alejandro Brito, who is representing Trump in the defamation suit, told NewsNations CUOMO on Tuesday that despite their long alliance, Murdoch isnt too much of a buddy given the Journals publication of what Trump claims is a fabricated letter. The lawsuit, filed Friday, targets Murdoch, News Corp and the Journals parent company over Thursdays report about Trumps relationship with the deceased financier and convicted sex trafficker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How close were Trump, Epstein? What we know about their friendship If hes his buddy, his buddy is not really treating him all that fairly or ethically or responsibly by allowing this article to be written, Brito said. The Journal reported it uncovered a birthday album assembled for Epsteins 50th birthday in 2003 by Ghislaine Maxwell, who was later sentenced to 20 years in prison for conspiring in Epsteins abuse of minors. The album allegedly contained a bawdy letter bearing Trumps name with a hand-drawn outline of a naked woman and text concluding Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret. Trump vehemently denies writing the letter, calling it fake on social media: These are not my words, not the way I talk. Also, I dont draw pictures, Trump posted, though he has previously created at least one basic sketch of the New York City skyline sold for charity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Does Trump have a case against Rupert Murdoch for WSJ article on Epstein letter? Brito said Trump and his legal team contacted the Journal before publication, seeking transparency about the letter and requesting to examine it. He said the newspaper provided a stiff arm and refused to share the document or give Trump the benefit of the doubt. We have no transparency with respect to the letter that The Wall Street Journal claims to have, Brito said. The timing is more than suspect, considering the fact that this card, or this letter, was purportedly authored back in 2003 and it really is obvious that it is coming out now for reasons that are malicious. The lawsuit alleges actual malice and reckless disregard for truth under the Times v. Sullivan standard for defamation cases involving public figures. Trumps complaint contends the supposed letter is fake and the Defendants knew it when they chose to deliberately defame President Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WSJ likely on strong ground amid Trump lawsuit: Reporter Trump had threatened the legal action on social media before filing suit. Im going to sue his ass off, and that of his third rate newspaper, Trump posted Thursday evening about Murdoch. He followed up Friday morning, writing: I look forward to getting Rupert Murdoch to testify in my lawsuit against him and his pile of garbage newspaper, the WSJ. Murdochs media empire, including Fox News, has been instrumental in Trumps political success and their relatioinship. When asked why Trump continues using Fox News if he considers Murdochs actions so harmful, Brito deflected, saying he couldnt speak for the president on that matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has been open about contacting Murdoch directly before the storys publication in an attempt to stop it from running. NewsNation partner 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. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) fears the Trump administrations multibillion-dollar education funding freeze could cause schools in her state to close as districts struggle to keep employees without the money. The administration originally froze a total of $6 billion in funding to schools, affecting after-school and summer programs, along with classes for adult and English learners. Last week, the president released about $1 billion that was aimed at after-school programs, but $5 billion is still held up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of our school districts have already made really hard decisions about closing schools, Murkowski told ABC News. Both in Fairbanks and Anchorage, weve seen layoffs, she continued. If your literacy skills are weak, if youre working on your English skills, I mean, these are all things that are keeping people out of the workforce at a time when were trying to get people into it, Murkowski added. So I am very worried. She was one of nine Republicans to sign a letter to the Office of Management and Budget last week demanding the funding be released and rejecting the administrations claim the money is going toward woke programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter prompted the office to release the about $1 billion in funding for after-school and summer programming, prompting a sigh of relief for parents. But the rest of the money is still in limbo, with no timeline on when it will be given to schools. Id like to see some of the other programs released, but, you know, we havent heard one way or the other, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who led the Republican letter, told ABC. While Murkowski is hesitant to say the money is cut, she stresses the funding needs to be released before the school year begins. I dont want to call it cuts yet, because my hope is that theyre just unpaused and that they are going to materialize, Murkowski told ABC News. Advertisement 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. Alaska Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski said she's worried the Trump administration's federal education funding freeze could mean "closing schools" in her home state. "Many of our school districts have already made really hard decisions about closing schools," Murkowski said in the wake of three of Alaska's school districts suing the Trump administration for freezing more than roughly $6 billion in congressionally authorized federal education funding nationwide. "Both in Fairbanks and Anchorage, we've seen layoffs," Murkowski said. Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP - PHOTO: Canada US Senators MORE: School districts sue Trump administration over $6 billion funding freeze Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, the Anchorage School District announced in a letter to the community that the district had already begun laying off some staff members after $46 million was impacted by the pause. The district receives about a third of the state's federal education funds, according to Superintendent Jharrett Bryantt. "I wish I could say that we were really solid on the state level, but we're not. And now there's questions on the federal level as well," Murkowski added. Murkowski and nine other Republican senators signed onto a letter last week requesting the Trump administration reverse the funding pause, which they said prompted the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to unfreeze more than $1 billion in after-school and summer learning funding. However, OMB did not indicate whether it would be unfreezing the rest of the roughly $6 billion in federal funds for programs, such as English language learning, educator development and adult education, among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., led the group of 10 senators signing on to the letter. She told ABC News that she hopes the administration can successfully restore all education funding to states by time school starts. MORE: Trump administration unfreezes $1B in after-school funding: Source "I'd like to see some of the other programs released, but, you know, we haven't heard one way or the other," Moore Capito told ABC News. School district leaders are now scrambling due to the uncertainty, according to state officials who've spoken to ABC News. At least two dozen states, several school districts and education advocacy groups have now sued the administration over the funding freeze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An OMB spokesman said the funds are under review for "grossly" misusing programs that promote "radial leftwing agendas." But Murkowski slammed the administration for contending that districts in Alaska pushed programs with radical ideology. She said the programs are not "woke or ideologically out of line." Murkowski fears the programmatic review from the OMB -- the stated reason for the freeze -- could stretch into the school year, suggesting it would harm adult and English language learners the most. The delayed funding could in turn impact the workforce, according to Murkowski. "If your literacy skills are weak, if you're working on your English skills, I mean, these are all things that are keeping people out of the workforce at a time when we're trying to get people into it," Murkowski said, adding "So I am very worried." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the funding pause ensued on July 1, North Dakota Republican Sen. John Hoeven said he has been hearing from concerned educators in his state as well. Hoeven was relieved when the after-school and summer learning grants were unfrozen because they, too, help the workforce, he said. With funding for those programs secured, parents won't have to make other arrangements for their children, potentially missing work to do so, Hoeven told ABC News. "That was the one that was most timely." Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Breakthrough T1 - PHOTO: Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children's Congress, Senate Hearing MORE: GOP senators urge Trump administration to reverse $6 billion education funding freeze Hoeven and Murkowski said they're reaching out to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, hoping she can help release the additional funding to schools. OMB hasn't made a decision yet on how long its review will take. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ABC News has reached out to the Education Department for comment. Meanwhile, Arkansas Republican Sen. John Boozman said at this point unfreezing any aid is a positive first step. "The good news is that we are moving in the right direction," Boozman told ABC News. "Hopefully we can get them [the rest of funding] restored as soon as possible." Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP - PHOTO: Linda McMahon As the school year approaches, Murkowski stressed that the administration must move quickly. "I don't want to call it cuts yet, because my hope is that they're just unpaused and that they are going to materialize," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The senator, who grew up in Alaska and raised her children there, told ABC News that she is hopeful McMahon understands that rural communities will suffer without critical education programs. "It's just kind of making it real to her," Murkowski said, adding, "I know we're worried in Alaska, and I have to assume it's the same all over the country." Two men from Muscatine men were sentenced on July 22 to decades in federal prison for drug and gun crimes related to a shooting involving law enforcement officers in Muscatine on May 29, 2024. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, on the above date, Juan Aldo Beltran Delgado, 34, and Isidro Barajas, Jr., 30, drove to a home in Muscatine to await the delivery of a package they expected to contain over four and a half pounds of methamphetamine. Officers saw Beltran Delgado and Barajas pick up the package from the residence and tried to stop their vehicle. Beltran Delgado was driving at the time and drove over 100 miles per hour through Muscatine, drove through multiple red lights while attempting to evade law enforcement. (Jackson Rozinsky, OurQuadCities.com) Beltran Delgado crashed into two other vehicles near Highway 61 and Cedar Street. Both Beltran Delgado and Barajas fled from the car on foot carrying firearms after the crash. Officers arrived on the scene and Beltran Delgado shot at officers. Officers were able to take both Beltran Delgado and Barajas into custody. (Jackson Rozinsky, OurQuadCities.com) Beltran Delgado was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, after his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and carrying and discharging a firearm in relation to his drug trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barajas was sentenced to 32 years in federal prison, followed by a ten-year term of supervised release, after his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, carrying and displaying a firearm in relation to his drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system. (Jackson Rozinsky, OurQuadCities.com) United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa announced the sentencing. The case was investigated by the Muscatine County Sheriffs Office, Iowa Department of Public Safety, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Scott County Sheriffs Office, Muscatine Police Department, Cedar County Sheriffs Office, Muscatine County Drug Task Force, Johnson County Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In-N-Out Burgers expansion into Tennessee gained new attention this week when CEO Lynsi Snyder announced on a podcast that she is moving her family from California to the Volunteer State. However, buried within the interview was a comment that will certainly disappoint fans of the fast-food giant across a wide swath of the United States: In-N-Out isnt coming to the East Coast anytime soon. Florida has begged us, and were still saying no, Snyder, 43, told Allie Beth Stuckey, host of the faith-focused podcast Relatable. The [other] East Coast stateswere still saying no. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Southern California-based chain announced its Tennessee expansion in January 2023, with a regional office in Franklin, a suburb of Nashville, slated to open next year. According to the Nashville Business Journal, In-N-Out is eyeing 35 potential locations in Tennessee, which will be served by the companys distribution center in Lancaster, Texas. In-N-Out is known for using only fresh ingredientsnever frozenincluding ground beef, so its stores are generally located within 500 miles of its distribution centers. Azusa, CA, Monday, April 1, 2024 In-N-Out Burger located on Rte. 66. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Were not putting a whole meat facility where we do all our own beef [in Tennessee]. Well have a warehouse, but not do our own meat there, Snyder said. She added that other states within range of the Lancaster facility could also be part of the burger chains expansion planslikely leaving In-N-Out fans in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kansas, Mississippi, and Missouri salivating over the possibility of Double-Doubles and Animal Fries in their future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynsi, the granddaughter of In-N-Out founders Harry and Esther Snyder, said the company needs to approach growth with a focus on quality over quantity. We have to have some growth, but we also dont want to be on every corner. We dont want to be in every state, and we dont want to ever compromise our values and standardsthe cornerstones that my grandparents laid down, she said. In-N-Out currently operates over 400 stores in eight states: California, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Oregon and Idaho. Its first Washington state location is expected to open within the next several weeks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Lynsi Snyder, the billionaire owner and president of In-N-Out Burger, clarified that while she may be leaving California, the chain restaurants headquarters isnt going anywhere. Were not moving In-N-Out Burgers corporate headquarters, Snyder, 43, clarified on Monday. Were not leaving California, or leaving our roots behind. Each one of our locations is here to stay. Snyder said that her companys employees will have a chance to be a part of the eastward expansion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where I raise my family has nothing to do with my love and appreciation for our customers in California, she added. The existing headquarters in Irvine, California, will shut down by 2029, and In-N-Out will instead be based out of nearby Baldwin Park. Snyder backtracked on some of the comments she made last week. Snyders previous statements about move She appeared on the Relatable podcast, released Friday, where she talked about an upcoming move to moving to the suburbs outside Nashville, Tennessee. Were building an office in Franklin, she said. Im actually moving out there. This news didnt come as a surprise. In 2023, In-N-Out announced it planned to open a corporate office in Tennessee, along with expanding its restaurant chain to the state, within the next three years. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, center, poses with In-N-Out Burger owner and President Lynsi Snyder, to his right, in Franklin, Tenn., on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. In-N-Out Burger announced Tuesday that it plans to open a corporate office in Tennessee and restaurants in and around Nashville by 2026, marking the companys first expansion east of Texas. | Jonathan Mattise Snyder said she loved growing up in Northern California and that theres a lot of great things about the state. But raising a family is not easy here. Doing business is not easy here, the In-N-Out president added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her initial comments sparked speculation about Snyder taking her family and her company headquarters to Tennessee. Conservative accounts on X blamed California Gov. Gavin Newsom and other state Democratic officials for driving the burger chain out of the state, especially since Snyder recounted the hardships of running her company in the state. Newsoms press office defended In-N-Outs plans last week, and justified the office in Tennessee is a second HQ. As for Snyders personal decision to move, the press office said they think its to better oversee expansion in the Eastern U.S., without addressing the In-N-Outs criticism about the lack of family-friendly polices in California. For those interested in the facts, rather than fiction, In-N-Out is expanding East creating a second HQ in Tennessee. The are consolidating their TWO SoCal offices into one creating a Western Regional HQ to go along with their yet to be built Eastern Regional HQ All of this https://t.co/oRxll7isJG Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) July 19, 2025 Eastward expansion As CNBC notes, Tennessee doesnt tax individual income and its corporate tax rate 6.5% is lower than Californias 8.84%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When In-N-Out was established in 1948, it was the first drive-thru hamburger joint in the state. Now, the burger restaurant has a total of 400 locations across eight states, including Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Oregon, Colorado, Idaho and Utah. Florida has begged us and were still saying no, she said. In fact, in 2021, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, in a private meeting with Snyder, pitched bringing the chain restaurant to his state but she declined and pointed out that all their suppliers are based on the West Coast. But the future doesnt look too bleak for a possibility with the latest move. The East Coast, were saying no. We are able to reach Tennessee from our Texas warehouse, Snyder said. Texas can reach some other states. A New York City man was arrested after police say he threw his 1-year-old niece down a garbage chute, PEOPLE has learned. A spokesperson with the New York City Police Department confirmed with PEOPLE that Aaron Henderson, 39, has been charged with three counts of assault, two counts of unlawful imprisonment, and one count of endangering the welfare of a child. The NYPD spokesperson said officers responded to an apartment building at 195 Steuben St in the Park Hill neighborhood of Staten Island shortly after receiving a 911 call around 3 p.m. on Monday, July 21. Upon arrival, officers were informed that a 39-year-old male placed a 1-year-old female inside of a garbage chute, the NYPD spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The infant suffered a "minor abrasion to the torso" and was taken to Staten Island University North Campus hospital in stable condition. The New York Daily News reported that Henderson has autism, and that the girls parents rushed downstairs to help rescue their child after realizing what had happened. Google Maps 195 Steuben St, Staten Island, NY 10304 195 Steuben St, Staten Island, NY 10304 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. WABC reported that the baby girl fell down the chute from the third floor of the apartment building, landing on the first floor. The outlet reported that police described Henderson, the girls uncle, as emotionally disturbed at the time of his arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors appeared stunned by the news, according to the outlet. Ive been here for over 20 years, its saddening, neighbor Milton Franklin told WABC from his apartment door, explaining that he had seen the girls mother go in the ambulance with her infant daughter, who was crying. Im hurt, Franklin added. Im just going to pray that God wraps his arms around this family and that they get through the situation. Read the original article on People NASH COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) The Nash County Animal Shelter failed a surprise inspection by the state, with several animals found without proper intake documentation, several animals without rabies vaccines, and a deceased kitten found in a cage. The shelter was also found to have a lack of water for several animals, only one worker on duty, and several animals without proper veterinary care. The shelter was housing 100 animals with a staff of only two. The shelters license application states that cleaning occurs twice daily, but upon inspection, none of the cat cages had been cleaned, and several litterboxes were soiled. The inspection was disapproved due to the lack of sanitation, veterinary care, and rabies vaccinations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information: 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 WNCT. The 43-year-old woman who died in an accident involving a motorized boat and contact with its propeller at Lake Pueblo State Park has been identified as an Arvada resident, the Pueblo County Coroner's Office announced via social media Tuesday. Jessica Gaebler died from her injuries Saturday afternoon after being raced to shore near the Denver Cove located mid-lake, a Saturday news release from Colorado Parks and Wildlife said. Lifesaving measures were attempted by firefighters from the Pueblo West Fire Department, but Gaebler was pronounced dead by a coroner investigator an hour later. "CPW offers condolences to the family and friends of the victim and everyone involved in the incident," Joe Stadterman, the manager for the state park, said in the Saturday release. At least four others have died in water-related incidents at Lake Pueblo State Park since May, according to unofficial numbers tracked through previous Gazette reporting. The other four were due to drowning. As Nashville becomes increasingly unaffordable for working families, were pushed into neighborhoods most exposed to industrial harm, with less and less power to fight back. That has to change. New greenways and traffic calming make affluent neighborhoods more livable. Meanwhile, working families reside next to the rail yard, beside rock quarries and within breathing distance of waste facilities. These are not coincidences, but a result of decades of inequitable development choices. Children growing up near industrial sites face higher asthma rates and lower academic achievement due to the toxic environments that surround them. Air pollution harms brain development and contributes to chronic respiratory illness, making it harder to focus, sleep and thrive. Constant industrial noise disrupts rest and study, while the absence of green space and tutoring opportunities reduce their resilience against these challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That harm then carries into adulthood, making it harder for them to earn enough to raise children in high opportunity neighborhoods free from pollution. Cars maneuver around a sea of trucks on I-40 near the Fesslers Lane overpass in Nashville on March 23, 2005. Memphis and Chattanooga have decided on a 55-mph speed limit for tractor-trailers to hep reduce air pollution, and Nashville may be next In Antioch, concerns about safety and pollution are set to increase Take the case of a community in Southeast Nashville, near the Mill Creek in Antioch where King Market and Chicago Style Gyros offer some of the most affordable and healthy meals in the area. You'll find mobile home parks lining flood-prone Antioch Pike, a Waste Management facility, a 70-year-old limestone quarry, a lumber yard and a long-haul trucking depot. Its a landscape shaped not by community need, but by what city planners have historically deemed acceptable for working-class families. Trucks serving these sites illegally rumble through the residential road even through the morning hours. Despite restrictions on Franklin Limestone Road, enforcement is minimal. Children wait for school buses as diesel exhaust clouds the air, and they soon learn to recognize the smell of a lucrative day for industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, a July 15th proposal is moving quickly through Metro Council to build a massive logistics warehouse near these homes. It threatens to remove a forest buffer that absorbs stormwater and shields families from industrial sites, and it promises to run 879 daily truck trips through neighborhood streets. The project would increase flood risk, worsen air quality and bring even more danger to already hazardous roads. Opinion: Nashville is growing but losing its trees. Developers, and us, just don't care. After pleas from residents, the Southeast Police Precinct said the roads are too dangerous even for officers. Most everyone has witnessed a crash where drivers encountered an unexpected vehicle or blind curve and flew off the embankment. The road design and unchecked trucking has turned the area into a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of lawlessness, where families face chaos while contractors and street racers dodge accountability if they push you into the ditch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then the phrase I hear all too often: At least its affordable, right? Nashville should prioritize gentle development as much as affordability There is another way forward. As Nashville faces a major housing shortage, the city continues to bulldoze older, affordable multifamily homes to build prohibitively expensive single-unit houses. The result is predictable: Nashville has become the most gentrified city in the nation, pushing working families into the few remaining affordable areas, often beside expanding industrial zones. Opinion: In Tennessee, smart infrastructure fuels uninterrupted growth To deliver affordability, we must make it harder to destroy older duplexes and easier to build gentle neighborhood density, like backyard apartments and cottage courts. Building along transit corridors can ensure more working families live where resources are, instead of by the trash facility or heavy industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those communities, like Antioch, we must also deliver environmental justice. Industrial districts planned too close to residents must be transformed from public health hazards to public health resources. The forest at risk should remain standing. Nashvilles vision for a conservation corridor and greenway along Mill Creek must be more than a dream it must guide real decisions. We cant continue treating plans for equity and sustainability as optional when communities are bearing the costs of inaction. This isnt just about one neighborhood. Its about whether Nashville builds a future that protects working families or continues to treat us as expendable. The community must be convened to lead a full-scale environmental reclamation project, where improving health outcomes is supported by adding basic protections like guardrails, street enforcement and green space preservation. Our families deserve more than survival. They deserve safety, dignity and a say in the future of the city we call home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jason Miller is a homegrown Nashvillian, community organizer and candidate recruiter, particularly on issues of affordable housing, sustainability and transportation. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville families pushed to unhealthy, unsafe neighborhoods | Opinion New state laws targeting diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have triggered the complete removal of two policies and new language in a third policy for Metro Nashville Public Schools. In a unanimous vote with no discussion, the MNPS board approved a bevy of changes during its regularly scheduled meeting on July 22, including the removal of its guidelines to build equity and diversity among students, educators and its business partners. The new state laws are part of the state's sweeping "Dismantling DEI Act" passed earlier this year during a tumultuous special legislative session. More: Tennessee lawmakers end session dominated by continued immigration, DEI debates Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a governance committee meeting held directly before the regular school board meeting, several school board members voiced their opposition and concern over the decision. "If not for state law, we would not be taking this action," District 8 Board Member Erin O'Hara Block said. Metro Nashville Public Schools board considers a proposal to expand a concealed weapon detection system to all high school campuses during a meeting at the MNPS administrative building in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. A look at what changed The move eliminated a policy that mapped out ways for the district to fairly and efficiently award contracts to vendors, suppliers, contractors and subcontractors, with the goal of reflecting local small, minority-owned, woman-owned and disabled veteran-owned businesses. It also eliminated an education equity policy that included several guidelines to "identify, respond to, and redress inequity" in its planning and budgeting process, including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Equitable distribution of resources and opportunities Professional development opportunities designed to eliminate gaps in opportunities and achievement among staff Requirements for district leaders to work with students, families and the community to address barriers to academic success and social emotional learning for students A requirement for the director of schools to make plans and procedures for reaching equity goals publicly available A line from the policy guiding the board's hiring decisions that included goals for educator diversity that reflected the diversity of the student population was also removed. School Zone newsletter: The latest news on Tennessee kids, education and more, delivered straight to your inbox MNPS adds policies on school threat reporting, reading scores, antisemitism The board also approved several more policy changes tied to new state laws during its July 22 meeting. Here are some of the new requirements: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If schools report threats or "significantly disruptive behavior" to law enforcement, they must in turn report them to parents and guardians within 48 hours. There must also be a quarterly report of incidents given during school board meetings. A definition of antisemitism is now included in the district's anti-discrimination policies. Report cards for students in grades K-8 will now include a student's score on the most recently administered universal reading screener, along with the results of a dyslexia screener, if applicable. Rachel Wegner covers education and children's issues for The Tennessean. Got a story you think she should hear? Reach her via email at RAwegner@tennessean.com. You can also find her on Twitter or Bluesky under the handle RachelAnnWegner. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville schools nix DEI efforts to comply with new Tennessee law Nations torn by infighting will lose, Military Intelligence Chief Kyrylo Budanov said on July 23, amid a new law that threatens the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions. "Ukrainian history has taught us a nation loses if it is torn apart by internal contradictions," Budanov said in a post to Telegram. On July 22, the Ukrainian parliament (Verkhovna Rada) approved amendments that grant the prosecutor general new powers over cases led by the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) and investigations led by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Volodymyr Zelensky later that day signed the bill into law, effectively destroying the independence of Ukraine's two key anti-corruption institutions, opposition lawmakers and watchdogs say. "We have one common trouble, one enemy. Therefore, internal contradictions should be resolved through open dialogue to achieve a single common goal to defend our country. I am confident that Ukraine will be saved by strong military and institutions," Budanov said. The new law allows the prosecutor general to issue binding instructions to NABU, reassign cases outside the agency, and delegate SAPO's authority to other prosecutors. Critics say the changes dismantle safeguards that protect both bodies from political interference. Among other new powers, the prosecutor general could also close NABU's investigations at the legal defense's request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protestors gathered in major cities across the country, including Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa, to demand that Zelensky veto the controversial law. "Take cardboard from boxes and make posters where you write everything you think about the recent onslaught," war veteran Dmytro Koziatynskyi wrote in a Facebook post that helped mobilize the protests. Read also: We know how to stand up for our rights Ukrainians protest law threatening anti-corruption institutions Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. While the dangerous effects of climate change continue to worsen, legal efforts to address a range of environmental issues are also on the rise. Headlines across the globe tout many of these legal actions: South Koreas Climate Law Violates Rights of Future Generations; Ukraine is Ground Zero in Battle for Ecocide Law; Paris Wants to Grant the River Seine Legal Personhood; and Montana Court Rules Children Have the Right to a Healthy Environment, to name a few recent examples. As an environmental lawyer, I see that most of these suits use one of five legal strategies that have been developed over the past couple of decades. These approaches vary in terms of who is filing the lawsuit, against whom, and whether the underlying legal perspective is based on protecting human rights or the rights of the environment itself. But they all share an innovative approach to protect all life on this planet. 1. Right to a healthy environment In 2022, the United Nations declared that humans have the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment essential to protecting human life, well-being and dignity. More than 150 countries have similar declarations in their constitutions or laws, often alongside protections for other human rights, such as those to education and medical care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These rights are held by humans, so people can sue for alleged violations. Typically they sue one or more government agencies, whose responsibility it is to protect human rights. One recent case using this approach was Held v. Montana, in which a group of young people in 2024 won a lawsuit against the state of Montana for violating the state constitutions right to a clean and healthful environment. The state Supreme Court agreed with the plaintiffs and struck down a law barring the consideration of climate effects when evaluating proposals for fossil fuel extraction. Similar cases have been heard in the U.S. and other countries around the world. The International Court of Justice, the primary judicial body of the United Nations, ruled on July 23, 2025, that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a human right and said in a nonbinding decision that governments that do not protect people and the planet from climate change could be legally liable for the resulting harms. Rikki Held, the lead plaintiff in the Montana case, center seated, confers with the Our Childrens Trust legal team before the start of the trial on June 12, 2023. William Campbell/Getty Images 2. The rights of future generations A legal concept called intergenerational equity is the idea that present generations must responsibly use and conserve natural resources for the benefit of future generations. First codified in international law in the 1972 Stockholm Declaration, the principle has been gaining popularity in recent decades. International organizations and national governments have enshrined this principle in law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Focused on humans rights, these laws allow people and groups to bring claims, usually against governments, for allowing activities that are altering the environment in ways that will harm future generations. One well-known case that relied on this legal principle is Future Generations v. Ministry of the Environment and Others, in which a Colombian court in 2018 agreed with young people who had sued, finding that the Colombian governments allowance of rampant deforestation in the Amazon violated the pact of intergenerational equity. 3. Government responsibility Another human-centered approach is the public trust doctrine, which establishes that certain natural and cultural resources are preserved for public use and that governments have a responsibility to protect them for everyones benefit. While the concept of public trust has long existed in the law, recently it has been used to bring suit against governments for their failure to address climate change and other environmental degradation. In Urgenda Foundation v. the State of the Netherlands, a Dutch court held in 2019 that the government has a responsibility to mitigate the effects of climate change due to the severity of the consequences of climate change and the great risk of climate change occurring. Since the decision, the Dutch government has sought to reduce emissions by phasing out the use of coal, increasing reliance on renewable energy and aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Government responsibility for the public trust was also a basis of the Juliana v. U.S. case, where a group of young people sued the U.S. government for breaching the public trust by not doing enough to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately declined to hear an appeal of a lower courts ruling, but the lack of a specific ruling by the nations highest court has given continued hope to new cases, which continue to be filed based on the same principle. 4. Rights of nature The rights of nature is one of the fastest-growing environmental legal strategies of the past decade. Since Ecuador recognized the rights of Pachamama, the Quechua name for Mother Earth, in its Constitution in 2008, more than 500 laws on the rights of nature have been enacted around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The principle recognizes the legal rights of natural entities, such as rivers, mountains, ecosystems or even something as specific as wild rice. The laws that grant these rights dont focus on humans but rather nature itself, often including language that the natural entity has the right to exist and persist. The laws then provide a mechanism for the natural entity whether through a specific group assigned legal guardianship or other community efforts to protect itself by filing lawsuits in court. In the 2018 Colombian case, the court found that the Amazon ecosystem has rights, which must be respected and protected. Similarly, in Bangladesh in 2019 the courts recognized the rights of all the countrys rivers, requiring, among other things, a halt on damaging development along the rivers that block their natural flow. The court also created a commission to serve as legal guardians of the countrys rivers. The destruction of a dam in Ukraine, which emptied this former reservoir, is being investigated as a possible crime of ecocide. Tarasov/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images 5. Defining a new crime: Ecocide In 2024, the governments of Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa formally proposed that the international community recognize a new crime under international law. Called ecocide, the principle takes a nature-focused approach and includes any unlawful act committed with the knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Put another way, what genocide is to humans, ecocide is to nature. It is being proposed as an addition to the 2002 Rome Statute, which created the International Criminal Court to prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. While the idea is relatively new, in addition to the international efforts, several countries have incorporated ecocide into their laws including Vietnam, France, Chile and Ukraine. A Ukrainian prosecutor is currently investigating the June 2023 destruction of a dam in a Russian-occupied area of the country as a potential crime of ecocide, because of the widespread flooding and habitat destruction that resulted. The European Union has also incorporated ecocide into its Environmental Crime Directive, which applies to all EU member countries, providing them with a mechanism to hear ecocide claims in their national courts. Using these ideas Each of these legal concepts has the potential to increase protection for the environment and the people who live in it. But determining which strategy has the greatest chance of success depends on the details of the existing law and legal system in each community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of these legal strategies have a role in the fight to protect and preserve the environment as an integral, interdependent living thing that is vitally important to us as humans but also in its own right. This article, originally published July 23, 2025, was updated later that day to reflect the ruling from the International Court of Justice. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Dana Zartner, University of San Francisco Read more: Dana Zartner is a volunteer with the Earth Law Center assisting with the editing of toolkits and guides, but has not worked on any of its lawsuits. On Monday, July 21, the 25th Navajo Nation Council officially opened its 2025 Summer Session with a ceremonial horseback arrival at the Council Chamber in Window Rock, Arizona. The traditional ride pays tribute to the legacy of past leaders who once traveled on horseback from across Dine Bikeyah to attend legislative sessions. This years opening procession also included members of the late DeShauna and Del Lynn Peshlakais family, who marched to raise awareness about drunk driving. Delegates who participated in the trail ride included Casey Allen Johnson, Germaine Simonson, Lester Yazzie, Steven Arviso, and Rickie Nez. In the days leading up to the session, riders journeyed from their home communities, stopping in local chapters to engage with residentscontinuing a long-standing tradition of grassroots dialogue and community-based leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. The summer session begins with a reflection of who we are as a Nation and the horseback ride reminds us of the responsibilities our ancestors carried, Speaker Crystalyne Curley said. We continue that work by listening to our communities and acting on their behalf. Following the formal call to order by Speaker Curley, the session continued with the posting of colors by the Navajo Women Veterans. Eastern Navajo Ateed Yazhi Georgianna Begay led the Pledge of Allegiance, while Makayla Jones, Little Miss Ceremonial, performed the national anthem. An invocation was delivered by Anthony Howard, Vice President of the Bahaslah Chapter of the Native American Church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the week, delegates will receive reports and consider legislation that impacts the Navajo people. The Summer Session is open to the public and livestreamed on the Navajo Nation Councils Facebook and YouTube pages (@navajonationcouncil). About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net An Arleigh-Burke class destroyer recently sent to the southern border to support U.S. Northern Command intercepted a massive shipment of illegal drugs off the coast of Mexico on July 10. The Sampson, which was among several Arleigh-Burke class vessels to be deployed to the border, seized an estimated 3,439 pounds of cocaine about 380 miles southwest Acapulco, Mexico, the Navy announced. The illicit drugs were being hauled on a go-fast vessel, which was not flagged to any nation. The Sampson, operating with a Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment Team on board, was transferred to the tactical control of Coast Guard Southwest District so that appropriate law enforcement measures could be taken to halt the go-fast boat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A MH-60-R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Navys famed Scorpions of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 49 lifted off from the destroyer. As the Sea Hawk began approaching the smuggling vessel, those onboard the go-fast boat began throwing items overboard. The go-fast boat continued to try to evade the Sea Hawk, despite warning shots. In accord with normal maritime interdiction procedures, the helicopter then fired shots at the vessel to disable it from escaping. Two law enforcement detachments were then launched from the destroyer. They managed to collect some of the packages adrift in the ocean and board the go-fast boat. Since the vessel was sailing without nationality, the Coast Guard granted a full law enforcement boarding, and field tests were done on the boat that confirmed that the packages were stuffed with cocaine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two suspects were arrested, and the Coast Guard had the go-fast boat sunk, due to its lack of navigation lights and other standard features. They deemed it as hazardous to others at sea. After the law enforcement mission was completed, the destroyer was returned to the tactical control of U.S. Third Fleet. The Sampson began its border deployment last month, departing Naval Base San Diego on June 3. Weeks into its deployment on June 22, the vessel successfully interdicted 3.5 tonnes of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific. RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) The North Carolina State Fair has the opportunity to be named the best state fair in the nation in the latest USA Today Readers Choice Awards. A panel of experts nominated the North Carolina State Fair as one of 20 finalists for the 2025 awards, according to 10Best by USA Today. Voting on USA Todays lifestyle and travel site will run through July 28 at noon, and readers may submit one vote per day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winner will be announced on Aug. 6. To cast a vote, visit the 10Best by USA Today website. The 2025 North Carolina State Fair will take place from Oct. 16 to Oct. 26. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) For decades, she was another Jane Doe. Her body was buried beneath a house in West Nashville. Sheila Cummings vanished in 1984, and for years, her family searched without answers. But investigators never suspected shed already been found. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Nearly 40 years later, a phone call from her daughter and a breakthrough in forensic genetic genealogy helped Nashville investigators finally identify her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while one family now has closure, another mystery remains. In November 1987, a tenant renting a home on Charlotte Avenue discovered human remains under the dirt floor of the crawl space. When officers arrived, they unearthed the skeletal remains of two women. Im very confident now that we have two victims, a police detective said at the time. We have two skeletal remains, and theres no other bodies or body parts or evidence we need to seek out. Shortly after the discovery, authorities turned their attention to a man named James Shaffer, who was already serving a prison sentence in Kentucky for kidnapping and raping a 14-year-old boy. He confessed to the murders, telling investigators that he killed the women two years earlier, in 1985, during a fit of rage. In media interviews at the time, Shaffer claimed the women were sex workers, and that he only knew them as Sheila and Lil Bit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the confession, the womens identities remained unknown and the case stalled. The two women were never identified back in 1987 because they were skeletal remains, explained Detective Matt Filter with the Metro Nashville Police Department. The technology just wasnt available to use any biometric information to try and identify them. But in January, Metros Cold Case Unit reopened the file, this time using forensic genetic genealogy a tool that has revolutionized how investigators solve decades-old crimes. They planned to exhume the remains and submit DNA for analysis. Two days before the exhumation, police received a phone call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I got a phone call from a woman who said she had been looking for her mother since the 1980s, since about 1984, Filter said. Police collected a DNA sample from the woman and submitted it for comparison against the unidentified remains. The match was confirmed: one of the Jane Does was Sheila Cummings of Elgin, Illinois. She was just 23 years old when she was killed. Its a great feeling to know after 40 years, youre able to finally identify somebody and return them to their family, Filter said. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Police said the identification would not have been possible without the daughters call or advances in DNA science. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With forensic genetic genealogy, we can now take a DNA sample, upload it to a database, and see how it matches with other people, Filter said. Even distant relatives. But while one victim now has a name, the second remains unknown. Shes still referred to only by the nickname Shaffer gave her: Little Bit. Rendering of Lil Bit (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department) Investigators said they wont give up. The same technology that helped bring Sheila Cummings home, they hope, will one day give another family the answers theyve been waiting for. Anyone with information about Lil Bit is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463, the MNPD Cold Case Unit at 615-862-7369 or the Davidson County Medical Examiners Office at 615-743-1800. Advertisement 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 WKRN News 2. Sticky situation: Neighbors voice concerns about temporary fix to roads Union County residents are voicing their concerns about a temporary fix to roads in their community. READ MORE: How one Union County town is surveying every inch of its roads for improvements Neighbors want their pavement fixed, but the town cant help them. The North Carolina Department of Transportation maintains roads in the Heathwood neighborhood. Instead of repaving the road with asphalt, NCDOT hired a contractor to do an asphalt surface treatment, which is essentially done by adding gravel to the road and putting a sealant over it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors said NCDOT did the work without notifying them. They said the gravel gets stuck to car tires and has impacted their quality of life. I literally had to carry my bike from (Highway) 75 because I couldnt ride on it, said resident Bill Hersch. It just been a sticky nightmare ever since. NCDOT said this type of treatment is supposed to extend the life of the pavement. In an email NCDOT said the neighborhood roads were not given asphalt because, other primary and secondary routes in Union County are in worse condition with high traffic volumes so our contract resurfacing dollars are being used there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An NCDOT official told Channle 9 that, Any tack that is left on a driveway should be taken care of on the punch list. Affected homeowners can contact the Monroe Resident Engineers office at 704-218-5125, so we dont miss it on the ride through. VIDEO: Waxhaw businesses, residents frustrated by repeated outages during Duke Energy upgrades NEOSHO, Mo. The future of a southwest Missouri water system could be in limbo for some time to come. The Neosho city council is debating whether to sell the city owned system to Missouri American Water Company. Theyll be discussing the potential transfer at their next meeting on August 5th. Even if they end up with a yes vote, the deal will still have to go to the state for review. That process could take another 6 to 12 months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think that this is something unique to Neosho. I think a lot of communities, a lot of places struggle with infrastructure, struggle with aging and outdated equipment. At the end of the day, I think thats really whats going to be the discussion with council, said Neosho City Manager David Kennedy. The Neosho water system was installed 80 years ago and could potentially need tens of millions of dollars of improvements to modernize the system. If the sale goes forward, Missouri American Water Company would pay Neosho $34,000,000, which would cover existing debt and address other city needs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The man accused of fatally shooting his girlfriend and confessing the crimes to friends and family will see trial, an El Paso County judge ruled Tuesday. Kevin Wells, 37, is accused of killing 34-year-old Lisa West on May 13 at the Mountain Shadows Apartments on Fontmore Road. Officers discovered West's body while responding to a call from Wells, who indicated someone was trying to break into his apartment and that he was not home, but his girlfriend was inside. Wells is facing a first-degree murder charge for West's death. The prosecution called four witnesses to the stand Tuesday as part of Wells' preliminary hearing to determine if he would see trial. Wells' defense counsel argued to delay the hearing, claiming they recently obtained new discovery and needed time to review it. Judge Amanda Philipps denied the request. Colorado Springs police officer Tyler Bresson was one of the responding officers to the burglary call. His testimony largely centered around first impressions of the scene and phone calls he had with Wells. According to Bresson, the outside of the apartment did not appear suspicious, but a gruesome discovery awaited him on the other side of the door. Upon entering, Bresson located West's body with a single bullet hole between her eyes. Photographs of the scene were shown to the courtroom, in which West's body was illuminated by the slim slivers of light coming through the closed blinds. Early into the investigation, Bresson made contact with Wells to go over his 911 call and Wells gave no indication officers were about to walk into an alleged murder scene, Bresson testified. During the phone call, which was played in court, Wells mumbles and stumbles over his words. Wells allegedly confessed to the murder to multiple people, including his father and employer, Wells' arrest affidavit said. Wells' father, who was briefly present in the courtroom Tuesday, encouraged his son to turn himself in. The prosecution then called Colorado Springs detective Ashton Lofgreen with the homicide unit to the stand. Lofgreen testified to what law enforcement uncovered through search warrants granted on the day of the alleged homicide. According to Lofgreen, Wells was the only resident on the lease for the apartment. West had previously applied to be a roommate, but was denied. Wells was also the only resident listed as paying utilities for the unit. When officers searched Wells' apartment they discovered multiple bullet casings, an empty handgun safe and a shattered sliding glass door. Featured Local Savings During cross-examination, Lofgreen testified to the autopsy results for West, which revealed several substances, including methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl, were found in her body. Colorado State Patrol Trooper Mathew Tillman testified he assisted in locating Wells' vehicle after the agency asked troopers to be on the lookout. Wells initially told Bresson he was heading to Denver, but later corrected himself that he was in Monument. Cellphone tracking placed Wells heading south, where he was eventually arrested. Wells was taken into custody about 60 miles away from his residence in Colorado City, Tillman testified. According to the trooper, Wells was compliant during his arrest. The final witness of the day was lead detective Shelby Johnson with the department's homicide unit. Johnson went over the background of Wells' and West's relationship. Text messages from West to a friend on the day of her death indicated West wanted to leave Wells due to abuse. "I wish I could leave, but I literally have nowhere to go and no money," one text sent by West stated. During cross-examination, Johnson revealed that another witness at the scene told detectives they saw a "suspicious person" in the apartment complex the morning of West's death. The defense asked Philipps not to bind over charges, arguing the prosecution did not prove the "premeditation" requirement for first-degree murder. Philipps explained she had to make her ruling by seeing the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution. Wells, who appeared in custody, sat with his head down for the majority of the hearing, shaking his head at times as he listened to the alleged details of his girlfriend's death. Wells' friends and family members were present in the courtroom, but were asked to leave before testimony due to the possibility they would be called as witnesses. Wells remains in El Paso County jail on a no-bond hold, booking records show. His next appearance in the 4th Judicial District is Aug. 21, for an arraignment and bond hearing. While Philipps bound over the first-degree murder charge for trial, she acknowledged the prosecution did not meet its burden to the point of validating Wells' no-bond hold. A podcast popular among young men shocked the internet this week with an unexpected interview guest: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But Netanyahus bid to appeal to young people appeared to backfire online, where the interview drew widespread criticism from viewers across the political spectrum. His interviewers, Kyle Forgeard and Aaron Steiny Steinberg, are members of the Nelk Boys, a group of social media influencers known for their vlogs and prank videos. The group, which has amassed more than 8.5 million subscribers on YouTube, attracted even more fans after its content began to highlight more conservative political figures, including President Donald Trump, whom the podcast interviewed in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahus hourlong interview, which dropped on the Nelk Boys Full Send Podcast on Monday, was met with overwhelmingly critical reception online, with viewers accusing the podcasters of asking softball questions and neglecting to push back against Netanyahus claims. Netanyahu and his government continue to face worldwide outrage over the war in Gaza that followed the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Benjamin Netanyahu on the fullsendpodcast LIVE at 12PM/EST pic.twitter.com/eJLLxYvhMd Full Send Podcast (@fullsendpodcast) July 21, 2025 The podcasts YouTube channel lost more than 10,000 subscribers within a day, according to the social media tracking platform Social Blade. On YouTube, top comments on the episode were critical of the hosts apparent lack of preparedness. I see so much stuff about whats going on in Israel and Iran and Palestine, and to be honest, I just really dont know what is going on there, Forgeard said in the episode. Steinberg said he was similarly hoping to get educated by interviewing Netanyahu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point, the topic of discussion turned to Netanyahus and Trumps shared affection for hamburgers. Asked about his go-to McDonalds order, Netanyahu revealed that he prefers Burger King, leading Steinberg to respond, appalled: Thats your worst take, I think. Throughout the rest of the interview, Netanyahu condemned anti-Israel protesters as un-American and contrasted life in Israel with life under the oppressive regime in Iran. He also railed against New Yorks Democratic mayoral nominee, Zohran Mamdani, calling his proposals for the city nonsense. (Mamdani has called Israels military actions in Gaza genocide and has said he would arrest Netanyahu, who is the subject of a warrant for his arrest from the International Criminal Court, if he visited New York City.) Asked why hes so hated worldwide, Netanyahu answered: Well, a lot of propaganda. First of all, Im not hated worldwide. He said Israel has received a lot of goodwill from many in Europe, claiming that Israels attack on Iran also liberated them, because those Iranian missiles were geared at Europe, too, and ultimately at America. The propaganda is there, I dont deny it, Netanyahu said. But people also have, you know, sometimes the truth beckons. And what Israel did with President Trump is safeguard free societies from a menace. I mean, this Iranian regime hangs gays from cranes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, 25 countries, including Britain, Japan and many European nations, called on Israel to end the war in Gaza a sign of Israels traditional allies dismay over the conflicts humanitarian toll. Close to 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since Oct. 7, 2023, according to Palestinian health authorities, with much of the enclaves population driven from their homes and pushed to the edge of starvation. The Israeli military and government officials have repeatedly accused Hamas of exploiting civilian sites, including hospitals and schools, as cover for its operations, an accusation that health officials and Hamas have denied. Israel has also faced mounting accusations of war crimes and genocide, including in a case brought by South Africa before the International Court of Justice, the United Nations top court. The court last year ordered Israel to do everything it could to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza. Both Israel and the United States have rejected accusations of genocide. Online, clips of Netanyahus interview drew viral backlash from viewers, many of whom accused the Nelk Boys of platforming genocide propaganda and compared interviewing Netanyahu to interviewing Adolf Hitler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Far-left political streamer Hasan Piker and far-right white supremacist Nick Fuentes were among those who criticized the latest Full Send Podcast episode Monday during separate livestreams on their platforms. You just basically presented someone who is a war criminal, someone who is doing a genocide, in a somewhat neutral light, Piker told Forgeard and Steinberg in his stream. And you cant be neutral when you have someone like Benjamin Netanyahu directly in an opportunity to talk to him. But thats what happened, so there is moral culpability here for you guys individually. He added that while he would agree to interview Netanyahu if he were given the opportunity, he would be well-equipped to fact-check his statements and push back against potentially dubious claims. Forgeard, in response, countered that their style of interviewing could "give us the opportunity to get the biggest people in the world." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And I think youll know by the 'Full Send Podcast' when you watch it, its like, 'Hey, these guys are going to get big guests. We might not necessarily get these guys grilling these people,'" Forgeard said. "And thats just what youre going to come to expect." Fuentes, in his own stream with Forgeard and Steinberg, also questioned the moral equivalency between himself, who has faced condemnation online for his views and beliefs, and a foreign head of state who is killing women and children. This is somebody whos in the process of committing what is effectively an ethnic cleansing and a genocide, Fuentes said. The interview struggled to land positively even among some supporters of Netanyahus military agenda. In The Times of Israel on Tuesday, contributor Elkana Bar Eitan expressed his disappointment that Netanyahu blew it on the podcast, despite the lack of pushback he got from the hosts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was painful to witness how Netanyahu, once a master communicator, missed this opportunity and showed that hes lost his touch, even in English, he wrote in an opinion piece. Despite the friendly atmosphere and softball questions, Netanyahu came across as completely detached from reality. A representative for the Full Send Podcast declined to comment. In a video responding to the backlash, Steinberg and Forgeard said they plan to give the other side the opportunity to speak on their next episode, though its unclear what guest theyre referring to. Someone has to do it, Forgeard said. And if we have to take the fall and be the bad guys for having the controversial people on, I think were willing to do it. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com TUPELO A Nettleton man led multiple law enforcement agencies on a high-speed pursuit Saturday afternoon, traveling through Lee County before crashing his car in Tupelo and fatally confronting police. According to sources with knowledge of the case, the initial incident and the ensuing pursuit began in Monroe County. As the chase proceeded north, both the Mississippi Highway Patrol and Verona police joined the case. Tupelo police offered assistance once it reached their city limits around 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Mississippi Bureau of Investigation Spokesperson Bailey Martin said the other agencies were called to assist in the pursuit that included a hostage in the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect wrecked the vehicle in Tupelo and came to stop along Highway 45 between McCullough Boulevard and Interstate 22. Following the wreck, the suspect got out of the car and pointed a weapon at officers, according to MBI. The officers then discharged their weapons striking the subject and causing serious injuries, Martin said. The subject was transported to a nearby hospital. The officer or officers who fired upon Harris have not been identified. The MBI release said the shooting involved the Verona Police Department. No officers were injured during the encounter. Lee County Coroner Carolyn Green identified the deceased as Juwan Harris, 31, of Nettleton. He was pronounced dead July 19 at 1:55 p.m. at the North Mississippi Medical Center. His body will be taken to the State Medical Examiners office in Pearl for autopsy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MBI is the lead agency looking into the incident. Upon completing the investigation, agents will share their findings with the Attorney Generals Office. Harris was no stranger to law enforcement. He was picked up in December 2015 in Monroe County for drug possession. He was indicted for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute in March 2016. He pleaded guilty to the charge in February 2017 and was sentenced to 20 years, which would be suspended if he completed a year of house arrest, as well as five years of post-release supervision. Two years later, Harris had his post-release supervision revoked for possession of a firearm by a felon in Monroe County and a Lee County drug arrest. He was ordered to serve two years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections but was released on parole just four months later. In September 2022, he was formally released from post-release supervision. Two separate drug possession indictments for arrests between the 2015 Monroe arrest and the plea agreement were later retired to the files. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A Nevada man is one of 18 convicted so far in a sweeping federal prosecution of people connected to dark web sites dedicated to images and videos containing child sexual abuse material. The U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday released a list of convictions obtained so far in Operation Grayskull, a joint effort with the FBI to dismantle four dark web sites. A Minnesota man was sentenced Tuesday to 250 months in prison and lifetime supervised release, plus a requirement to pay $23,000 in restitution. The list revealed Silver Springs, Nevada, resident Gregory Malcolm Good was sentenced to 25 years in prison on guilty pleas to charges of conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Good was also ordered to pay $93,000 in restitution to victims. He was sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Silver Springs is a town of about 5,000 people along U.S. 50 in Lyon County. Its about 400 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Good received the fifth-longest prison term among the 18 men who have been convicted. The longest sentence: William Michael Spearman of Madison, Alabama, was sentenced to life in prison and ordered to pay $123,000 in restitution. He pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise and was sentenced on Jan. 23, 2024. Tuesdays sentencing of Thomas Peter Katsampes of Eagan, Minnesota, brought details of the scope of the investigation and the names of all those convicted so far. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four websites were some of the most egregious on the dark web, according to a DOJ news release. The sites included sections specifically dedicated to infants and toddlers, as well as depictions of violence, sadism, and torture. The websites also contained detailed advice on how to avoid detection by law enforcement. Thomas Peter Katsampes and his co-conspirators ran some of the darkwebs most heinous networks, enabling horrific crimes against innocent victims, but Operation Grayskull has shut these sites down and delivered justice, U.S. Attorney Hayden P. OByrne for the Southern District of Florida, said. We applaud the FBI and our international partners for their tireless work, and let this be a clear warning: we will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone engaged in such atrocities, no matter how they attempt to cover their tracks, OByrne said. Operation Grayskull convictions in the Southern District of Florida include Katsampes, Good, and eight others: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Selwyn David Rosenstein of Boynton Beach, Florida. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Matthew Branden Garrell of Raleigh, North Carolina. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Robert Preston Boyles of Clarksville, Tennessee. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Gregory Malcolm Good of Silver Springs, Nevada. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. William Michael Spearman of Madison, Alabama. Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Sentenced on Jan. 23, 2024, to life in prison and ordered to pay $123,400 in restitution to victims of his offense. Joseph Addison Martin of Tahuya, Washington. Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 42 years in prison and ordered to pay $174,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Joseph Robert Stewart of Milton, Washington. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on April 18, 2024, to 23 years and 9 months in prison and ordered to pay $19,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Keith David McIntosh of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography, both as a person with a prior conviction for possession of child pornography. Sentenced on Dec. 19, 2024, to 55 years in prison. Thomas Peter Katsampes of Eagan, Minnesota. Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise and conspiracy to distribute child pornography on Feb. 27. Sentenced on July 22 to 250 months in prison and lifetime supervised release, plus a requirement to pay $23,000 in restitution. In other judicial districts around the country, nine additional individuals have been convicted for their involvement with these websites, including the following: Charles Hand , of Aberdeen, Maryland, was prosecuted in the District of Maryland and was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison. Michael Ibarra , of Wenatchee, Washington, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Washington and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Clay Trimble , of Fordyce, Arkansas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Arkansas and was sentenced to 18 years in prison. David Craig , of Houston, Texas, was prosecuted in the Southern District of Texas and was sentenced to nine years in prison. Robert Rella of Chesapeake, Virginia, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia and was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison. Samuel Hicks , of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was prosecuted in the Northern District of Indiana and was sentenced to 16 years in prison. Richard Smith of Dallas, Texas, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Texas and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. Patrick Harrison , of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was prosecuted in the Western District of Michigan and was sentenced to five years and ten months in prison. Thomas Gailus, of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, and his sentencing is pending. Two other individuals in the United States died before being charged for their involvement with the websites. The operation also resulted in arrests in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Estonia, Belgium, and South Africa, according to the DOJ news release. Advertisement 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. You dont often get to choose who you work with. You might have to fend off managers who dismiss you, colleagues who discredit you and in some rare cases, a co-worker who bites you? According to multiplereports, a New York City-based summer law associate at a prestigious law firm got dismissed after biting several colleagues. In Above the Law, the outlet reported that the bites were not in an aggressive, were beefing way, but that they were more than just a nibble. HuffPost reached out to Sidley Austin, the firm where the associate reportedly worked, and has not heard back. Surprisingly, this is not the first time a person has been accused of chomping on the flesh of their colleague in recent days. In June, Cobra Kai actor Alicia Hannah-Kim accused her co-star Martin Kove of biting her arm hard after she tapped him on the shoulder to greet him at a VIP section. Kove later issued a public apology to his Cobra Kai co-star. I was being playful in the moment but went too far and there is absolutely no excuse for my behavior, Kove stated in his apology. Biting your colleagues, no matter for what playful reason, is wrong, and yet the number of reported instances suggests that a public service announcement is needed on what kind of platonic touch is acceptable between colleagues at work. Managers who have experience with difficult or bizarre colleagues shared what they think might be going on here. What Might Drive A Co-Worker To Bite PSA: You should always keep your teeth to yourself at work. Illustration: HuffPost; Photos: Getty Alison Green, who has been giving workplace advice for over a decade on her Ask A Manager site, has firsthand experience with a workplace biter. In 2017, Green received a letter from a person who was driven to bite her toxic office manager when he blocked her path and refused to get out of her way. In an update, the letter writer stated that she still hadnt left her job, nor had she been fired, and the biting was crazy, but an appropriate response to abusive working conditions filled with name-calling and cursing. I certainly havent done it again and dont plan to. But in the long run, my office manager is a raging jerk, the biter wrote. Please, show me you can do better. In the end I feel bad... but not that bad. In this way, biting doesnt just raise alarm bells about your person; it might also indicate that you are in a toxic job where rude, aggressive behavior is being normalized. In my letter-writers case, it sounded like she had been working in a dysfunctional, combative office for so long that her norms had been thrown off, and the urge to bite was a form of breaking under that pressure, Green told HuffPost. It alarmed me that she didnt see it more clearly as a sign that something was very, very wrong in that office. But whether this is a misguided and inappropriate playful bite or a reaction made under extreme duress, you should still keep your teeth to yourself at work. This is what Green advised the alleged summer associate biter, which is good advice for any would-be biters: Dont bite anyone at work ever again! Its a form of assault, and the fact that she thought it was OK says she probably needs some serious remedial education in how to relate to people at work, Green said. The only people you should ever bite are those who have given their explicit consent, and at work that should never even be under discussion! Case closed. Never bite your co-worker. And be cautious about how you touch them in general. Stories of workplace biters are thankfully rare. You may go your whole career without a colleague mashing their teeth into your arm, but its much more common to deal with the conundrums of whether or not to hug or pat your colleague on the back. Know that the most acceptable form of touch in a workplace is a routine handshake. They are familiar enough in business that I dont think people need to worry about getting explicit consent before offering a handshake, Green said. Denise Dudley, a psychologist and behavioral expert, said that a high-five or fist bump can also satisfy the same positive desire of hooray, were on the same team that a handshake does. But beyond these simple greetings, be cautious. Patting someone on the back or shoulder after they do great work may seem harmless to you, but many people dont enjoy being touched at work, especially by people in positions of power over them. Dudley said to consider whether the touch you want to give can be reciprocated before you do it: Who touches whom is a function of who has the power. So we want to make sure, whenever we touch someone... that we touch them in a way that invites them to touch us back the exact same way. If youre a boss, you may have the power to pat your direct reports shoulder, but they cannot pay you back because of the power dynamic between your positions, Dudley noted. When in doubt, watch how your co-worker interacts with their peers and bosses before offering them anything more than a handshake. Aside from handshakes, Id say default to not touching coworkers, Green advised. If someone has shown themselves to be a hugger, for example, theyre probably someone who will be more welcoming of a congratulatory pat on the shoulder. But otherwise, or if you havent seen enough to be sure, err on the side of no physical touch. There are other ways to express warmth at work through words, tones, smiles, Green continued. Very few people will say theyre disappointed that their colleague didnt touch them; far more people will say they felt uneasy when someone did. If only the biters among us took this advice to heart. Related... Niger's former president Mohamed Bazoum remains imprisoned in the presidential palace two years after he was deposed in a military coup. The 65-year-old and his wife Hadiza have no contact with their lawyers, family or supporters, the organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Wednesday. The military seized power in the West African desert state on July 23, 2023. The leader of the coup was the head of Bazoum's presidential guard, General Abdourahmane Tchiani. Tchiani has now been declared president without elections until at least 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bazoum and his wife were imprisoned in their residence on the day of the coup and have not been allowed to leave since. Their movements were restricted to a few rooms after they allegedly attempted an escape. Their mobile devices were also confiscated. According to Bazoum's lawyers, their only contact with the outside world is regular visits from a doctor. The military government accuses Bazoum of high treason. However, no trial has taken place so far. "Despite clear rulings by international courts and UN bodies calling for his release, he remains a hostage of a military junta," one of his lawyers said, according to HRW. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bazoum spends his days training on an indoor bicycle and reading Marxist theory, Shakespeare and Tolstoy, the New York Times reported last year. His son, who was also initially detained, was allowed to leave the country in 2024 after mediation by Togo. Bazoum, who was democratically elected president in 2021, had very good relations with European countries and the United States, for whom Niger was an important partner in the fight against Islamist terrorist groups in the region and migration to Europe. Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) Nine of the 10 inmates accused of escaping the Orleans Justice Center faced a judge on Wednesday for arraignment. They appeared in court via Zoom, with all of them pleading not guilty to simple escape. Jefferson Parish Inspector General finds abuse of sick leave at East Bank Fire Department Right now, the suspects are being held at Angola Prison without bond. One escapee, Derrick Groves, is still on the run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are not endangering human life. Thats what makes it a simple escape versus aggravated escape, WGNO Cliff Cardone. Cardone explains that the upcoming discovery hearing will allow both the prosecution and defense to present relevant evidence before the prosecution progresses further. Everyone is entitled to due process. But theres a video of these detainees running out of the jail in the middle of the night. They were not heading to court hearings. We will continue to hold everyone accountable for the escape, said Attorney General Liz Murrill. 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 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. New Jersey State Police has kept a secret, unregulated DNA database since at least 2021, the public defender's office says in a new lawsuit. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor) Police across the country, stymied by backlogs and delays in DNA testing, began using a rapid DNA technology over a decade ago that allows investigators to test genetic material at crime scenes and police stations and get results within 90 minutes. Despite debate about the technologys accuracy, the New Jersey State Police has collected, analyzed, and stored DNA profiles generated by rapid DNA machines since at least 2021 in an unregulated database that legislators did not authorize and the public is largely unaware of, according to the state Office of the Public Defender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now the office, which discovered the databases existence by happenstance during discovery in a criminal case, is suing the state, saying the database operates outside privacy and due-process protections set by state and federal laws and should alarm all New Jerseyans. Were talking about a forever repository of your most private genetic information for people whose charges could be dismissed, said Tamar Lerer, a deputy public defender who leads the offices forensic science unit. The office sued the state criminal justice division and Edward A. Augustyn, its public records custodian, in state Superior Court in Mercer County earlier this month after Augustyn refused Lerers request for the memo that authorized state police to create the database. The lawsuit ostensibly is a fight over public records. But more broadly, Lerer warns that the Local Rapid DNA Database, as state police have dubbed it, is a surreptitious surveillance system that circumvents rules meant to prevent civil rights abuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It operates parallel to the Combined DNA Index System, a federal database known as CODIS thats maintained by the FBI, and the State DNA Index System, New Jerseys sanctioned statewide version of CODIS. But both CODIS and the State DNA Index System are subject to strict regulation, accreditation requirements, and judicial scrutiny, while the Local Rapid DNA Database is not, Lerer said. This is a civil liberties crisis with implications for every New Jerseyan, the lawsuit says. Once normalized, there is nothing to stop this technology from creeping into schools, employment screenings, housing applications, or protests. When the State is permitted to collect, retain, and use an individuals DNA based solely on an accusation, it raises serious questions about civil liberties and the balance between public safety and personal privacy. A spokesman for the Attorney Generals office declined to comment. Spokespeople for the state police did not respond to a request for comment. The FBI has historically barred law enforcement agencies from uploading DNA profiles generated by rapid DNA technology to CODIS because the technologys reliability hadnt been fully tested. Earlier this year, the agency approved changes to its quality assurance standards to allow such checks beginning July 1, as long as they meet certain criteria, including that rapid DNA sample data has been reviewed by qualified laboratory personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey State Police have not demonstrated that the profiles in its Local Rapid DNA Database meet the FBIs new standards, the lawsuit says. State police also have not publicly shared whether they notify or obtain consent from people whose DNA they store in the local system, destroy the DNA samples of people whose charges are dropped or dismissed, or offer people a way to remove their genetic information if they beat their case or are wrongfully convicted, Lerer said. The people of New Jersey did not vote for this. The legislature did not authorize it. No public hearing was held. No judge reviewed the policy, the lawsuit states. This is a civil liberties crisis with implications for every New Jerseyan. The public defender's lawsuit against New Jersey The database is at least the second time in recent years that the Office of the Public Defender has discovered the state police using DNA samples in ways the office said violate civil rights protections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office sued the state in 2022 after discovering that state police used blood samples taken from newborns at hospitals around the state for mandatory disease screening to try to identify suspects in criminal investigations. That lawsuit drove Attorney General Matt Platkin to set more limits on police use of whats known as blood spots, although litigation remains ongoing because police did not end the practice. This months lawsuit comes after a series of controversies involving the state police, including a lawsuit over expungement delays, an ongoing probe into racial profiling allegations and a resulting slowdown in traffic enforcement, complaints of racism and favoritism in hiring and promotions that sparked calls for new leadership, and a legal battle and legislative debate over whether the agency should remain under the attorney generals control. Attorney CJ Griffin represents the Office of the Public Defender in both this lawsuit and the blood spots battle. As a law enforcement agency, the state police should comply with all laws and be transparent and accountable in everything they do, Griffin said. Yet theres just so many examples of them ignoring their responsibilities and taking legal standards and obligations as optional, Griffin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added: If youre someone that believes that law enforcement agencies should comply with the law and that federal regulations exist for a reason, so that these databases remain scientifically sound, then you should really be concerned about whether or not this database is legal, and you should want some proof from the Attorney Generals Office and the state police that it is. We deserve to know. Griffin has represented the New Jersey Monitor in various legal proceedings. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The high court's ruling cites two laws passed by the Legislature signaling lawmakers' support for the Paterson police takeover in March 2023. (Sophie Nieto-Munoz for New Jersey Monitor) The New Jersey Supreme Court said the state attorney general can retain control of the Paterson Police Department, dismissing claims from city officials who said the state takeover was unlawful. The unanimous ruling, written by Justice Anne M. Patterson, reverses an appellate courts decision that found in the city officials favor. While the opinion stops short of granting broad authority to the attorney general to supersede municipal police departments, the ruling says the Legislature gave the necessary green light for the takeover in Paterson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Legislature did not question, much less invalidate, the supersession here; to the contrary, it expressly acknowledged that the Attorney General had superseded control of the Department and took affirmative steps to ensure that the (officer in charge) would succeed in his crucial role in that supersession, the 30-page opinion says. Attorney General Matthew Platkin took over the day-to-day operations of Patersons police in March 2023, weeks after officers shot and killed Najee Seabrooks, a violence intervention specialist whose family said was suffering from a mental health episode at the time of his killing. Police say Seabrooks came at them with a knife. In the days following Seabrooks death, community activists demanded police reform, particularly in how law enforcement responds to mental health emergencies. Platkins takeover included removing the police chief and appointing former New York Police Department official Isa Abbassi as the officer-in-charge (Abbassi has since stepped down and was replaced by Patrick Murray, who was a city police officer for nearly 40 years). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Platkin touted his offices extraordinary progress in making Paterson safer in the two years since the takeover despite the distractions of this litigation. He pointed to a drop in shooting incidents, the seizure of hundreds of illegal ATVs, and the creation of a task force to prevent illegal clubs and violent crime spillover. Thanks to the Courts definitive ruling this morning, that important work will continue undisturbed, ensuring that we can better serve the residents of our States third largest city whose safety has been and will remain my top priority, he said. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and city officials challenged the state takeover in two separate complaints that were transferred to the appellate division, which found Platkin had no statutory authority for the takeover. The case was then appealed to the Supreme Court. Wednesdays ruling cites two laws enacted by the Legislature Chapter 94, a narrowly-tailored measure that allows officers who havent met training requirements to serve as chief of a city like Paterson, and the 2024 budget bill that allocated $10 million to support the attorney generals efforts in the city. The court said it viewed those actions as support for the supersession to proceed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the judges stressed that this case is a one-time alignment of executive action and legislative endorsement. The ruling leaves open the potential for future legal battles over state and local police control if the attorney general attempts a similar takeover without legislative backing. This appeal raises significant questions about the Attorney Generals claim that he may supersede and take control of an entire law enforcement agency whenever he determines that step to be appropriate. The Legislature has the authority to address those questions directly and clarify its intent and expectations, should it decide to do so, the opinion states. Patersons police has been plagued by numerous scandals in recent years, including an FBI investigation into suspected corruption and community protests over excessive force used by police. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies has determined a Santa Fe police officer was justified in fatally shooting a 33-year-old man who was wielding a box cutter and rifle-shaped lighter during a domestic violence incident at his residence in September. "It is the opinion of the [First Judicial District Attorney] that the shooting, though tragic, was justifiable and charges should not be filed," according to an undated letter posted on the office's webpage Tuesday. "To be sure SFPD officers ... could have potentially attempted to deescalated the situation, they could have given clearer commands or attempted to use less lethal force before discharging the firearm," the letter states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "However there is no legal requirement that officers must have done those things prior to using lethal force," it continues. shooting.jpg An image taken from Santa Fe police body camera footage show officers responding to a 911 call Sept. 22 that ended in the shooting death of 33-year-old Gracen Coon by police. Even if charges were to be filed in the case, Carmack-Altwies wrote, the state would not have been able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Officer David Gallegos did not truly believe Gracen Coons whom Gallegos killed during the incident to be a threat to the officers and Coon's wife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is not up to Officer Gallegos to prove the shooting was justifiable, but rather the burden is on the State to prove that the shooting was not justifiable and this to a standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Under the details surrounding the fatal shooting of Mr. Coon, the state cannot clear this extremely high hurdle," the letter concluded. Coon's wife Lili Gordon called 911 because her husband, Coon a transgender man who had a history of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety was having a mental health crisis, Gordon told The New Mexican in March. Gallegos fired three shots at Coon within about 20 second of making contact with him, the District Attorney's letter says. Gordon told the 911 operator during a roughly 30-minute-long call that took place while officers were en route that while Coon was threatening her with what he believed to be a gun, the object was actually a lighter a fact that was "not relayed to responding officers," according to the DA's letter. This is a developing story and will be updated. A ranch owner brings in a load of hay from her ranch in Texas in 2024. Experts and lawmakers worry a new $50 billion program designed to help struggling rural health care providers may not be enough to offset federal funding losses. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Congress set aside $50 billion for rural hospitals and medical providers to allay fears over the billions more in historic cuts to federal health care spending that President Donald Trump signed into law on Independence Day. But is that bandage big enough to save struggling rural hospitals? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have more questions than I have answers, said Alan Morgan, CEO of the National Rural Health Association, a nonprofit policy group. No one has those answers yet. Morgan noted that the new money for rural health, to be spent over five years, is far less than the $155 billion in rural Medicaid spending cuts over 10 years, as estimated by KFF, a nonprofit health policy and research group. Experts, hospital leaders and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle fear that Trumps signature legislation will particularly gut rural hospitals and clinics, which see an outsize share of patients who are insured through Medicaid, the federal-state public health insurance for people with low incomes. The new law slashes more than $1 trillion from Medicaid over the next 10 years to help pay for tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthy. The $50 billion addition was an effort by Republican leaders in Congress to win the votes of colleagues within their party who initially balked at supporting such steep cuts to Medicaid and other health services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the U.S. Senate, the rural program helped secure the vote of Alaska moderate Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski, who expressed concern about the laws impact on health care in her state. About 1 in 3 Alaskans are insured through Medicaid. Jared Kosin, the president and CEO of the Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association, said hes deeply frustrated with the new laws gutting of Medicaid funding, which he thinks will wreak lasting damage on Alaskans. And Republicans sidestepped potential solutions by just throwing money into a program, he said. Its frustrating in the public realm when decisions like this are made fast and, frankly, carelessly, he said. The consequences are going to fall on us, not them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than half of the laws cuts to funding in rural areas are concentrated in 12 states with large rural populations that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act to cover more people, according to KFF: Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Some GOP lawmakers in Congress have heralded the $50 billion rural program as a health care victory. But its still unclear which hospitals, clinics, and other providers would receive money and how much. How it works The Rural Health Transformation Program will dole out $10 billion annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030. States must apply for their funding by the end of this year, submitting a detailed plan on how it would be used. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law outlines some ways that states can use the money, according to an analysis of the legislation from the Bipartisan Policy Center: Making payments to rural hospitals to help them maintain essential services such as emergency room care or labor and delivery. Recruiting and training rural doctors, nurses, and other health workers. Bolstering emergency medical services such as ambulances and EMTs. Using new technologies, including telehealth. Providing opioid use disorder treatment and mental health services. Improving preventive care and chronic disease management. Half of the $10 billion each year will be distributed evenly across states that have applied for it. The other half can be distributed by the administrator of the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) currently Dr. Mehmet Oz at his discretion, based on a states rural population and rural health facilities. Although the program doesnt replace the amount states are likely to lose, Morgan said its still an opportunity to rethink how rural health care is funded. Hed like to see states given flexibility in how theyre able to use the funds, and he hopes they focus on keeping rural communities healthy through preventive care while still helping hospitals keep their doors open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If done correctly, it could really change the future course for rural America, Morgan said. That is such a tough ask, though. Hardest hit Kentucky could take the biggest hit from the new laws reduction in rural Medicaid funding, losing an estimated $12 billion over 10 years, according to a KFF analysis. The states Medicaid department is still waiting for additional federal guidance to understand how the states program will be affected, Kendra Steele, spokesperson with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, told Stateline in a statement. Over 1.4 million Kentuckians rely on Medicaid including half of all children in our state, seniors, and more vulnerable populations and the passage of legislation on the federal level will have serious impacts for those individuals, rural health care, and hospitals and local economies, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even with the new program, states across the country will have to reevaluate their budgets in light of the cuts, said Hemi Tewarson, executive director at the National Academy for State Health Policy, a nonpartisan group that supports states in developing health care policies. Every region is slightly different and theres not a one-size-fits-all approach, she said. Hospital ownership varies [as well as] the types of services that are critical for the community where theyre located. They have to think about new ways to provide those services in a context with fewer resources. About 44% of rural hospitals are operating in the red, according to a KFF analysis of Rand Hospital Data, a higher share than the 35% of hospitals in urban areas. Rural at heart Before the bills passage, Oz attempted to reassure U.S. House Republicans that their districts could get money from the program even if they werent specifically rural, Politico reported earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were all rural at heart when it comes to money. Alan Morgan, CEO of the National Rural Health Association Pennsylvania Republican U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan said money would begin flowing to his district as early as the beginning of next year, telling the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader earlier this month that he met with Trump, Oz, and others to secure pledges that hospitals in his district could access the fund. He represents the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, which includes suburban and rural areas, as well as the cities of Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. Though the legislation includes guidelines on which facilities or areas qualify as rural, Morgan, of the National Rural Health Association, expects a mad dash from lawmakers and providers to claim rural status in order to get a piece of the funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats going to be a huge issue defining whos rural, Morgan said. Were all rural at heart when it comes to money. The Florida experience Assuming all states submit their plan by the end of the year Florida, can receive $100 million Florida could access $100 million per year over each of the next five years. Its not clear, though, how much of the funding in the second tranche, the one that Oz can allocate based on the states rural population and rural health facilities, will come Floridas way. But Florida Hospital Association President and CEO Mary Mayhew is optimistic. We do have a significant number of rural facilities around the state that are financially struggling, which is one of the criteria, Mayhew told the Florida Phoenix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FHA, which represents more than 200 hospitals and health systems, has already met with the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis to discuss the transition plan. Well, weve met with the Agency for Healthcare Administration, to start the conversation, to express, certainly, our support for the state submitting a plan, she said. We certainly want the Legislature to be engaged, said Mayhew, who noted that lawmakers have emphasized rural health in recent years. For instance, the Legislature in the last two years has agreed to spend money for capital improvements for Floridas 24 rural hospitals. And in 2024, the Legislature passed a far-reaching health care proposal dubbed Live Healthy. While the 2024 law did not expand Medicaid under the ACA, it does allow rural health clinics, federally qualified health centers, and community mental health centers to train medical school students and residents, bringing care to rural and underserved areas and allowing the facilities to get Medicaid reimbursemnt to help offset their training and medical education costs. This is a great opportunity that builds on what the state has already started in a number of its efforts, she said of the rural health funding. Mayhew, like Morgan, hopes the funds in both tranches will change the course of rural health in Florida, where eight rural hospitals have closed since 2005, she said. The legislation outlines what we would have hoped for, which is theyre looking for ways that states are going to strengthen a commitment to models of care that support prevention, chronic disease management, value-based payment arrangements to incentivize high quality, and the use of technology in a variety of ways, Mayhew said. The state must submit its transition plan to CMS by the end of the year. Its an extreme, fast turnaround, she said of the Dec. 31 application deadline adding, So, obviously, we want to see the state get something submitted as early as possible. We certainly want the Legislature to be engaged. Theyve been extremely supportive of prioritizing rural health care. This is a great opportunity that builds on what the state has already started in a number of its efforts. Mayhew stressed, though, that hospitals still face deep cuts. Anytime you take almost a trillion dollars out of Medicaid, it raises significant concerns, right, about coverage for vulnerable individuals and timely access to care, she said. This story first appeared in Stateline, a partner of the nonprofit States Newsroom, which includes the Florida Phoenix. Stateline reporter Anna Claire Vollers can be reached at avollers@stateline.org. Christine Sexton in Tallahassee contributed to this report. By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Commission will not ask Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, ByteDance, Meta Platforms and Microsoft to pay the cost of monitoring their compliance with a new digital law, the EU tech chief said on Wednesday. Germany and European Parliament lawmakers have lobbied for a supervisory fee to be levied on Big Tech to help EU antitrust regulators better enforce the Digital Markets Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The European Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, who is responsible for the technology sector, said rules were always under review and she would monitor developments, but had no plans to make the companies pay despite the enormous volume of monitoring work. "So it's always, of course, there is this possibility, but now we are not having any new proposal on that," Virkkunen told Reuters in an interview. The landmark legislation, which has been enforced since 2023, sets out a list of dos and don'ts aimed at curbing the six companies' power and giving consumers more choice. The group of Big Tech companies, which includes Booking.com, were picked because they provide a core platform service for business users. Proponents of a DMA supervisory fee said it should be similar to the levy imposed on big online platforms subject to another piece of legislation called the Digital Services Tax that requires companies to do more to police content on their sites. The digital services supervisory fee amounts to 0.05% of a company's annual worldwide net income. (Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; editing by Barbara Lewis) The Norman PTA Council brought home two awards from the Oklahoma PTA convention last week, including one that the organization had not received in ten years. Norman PTA Council, which consists of 19 PTA units within Norman Public Schools, helps with fundraising and social events that benefit the students at the various schools within the NPS district. There are 19 schools under the council, according to Norman PTA Council President Breea Clark. For the first time in 10 years, Norman PTA Council received the Council of the Year award at the Oklahoma PTA Annual Convention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Normans council was revived about 10 years ago with the help of Clark, who added that the council does not tell the individual units what to do but is there to help regarding different situations, training, finances, membership and more. Historically, PTA, which has national and state divisions, has had an eye for advocacy, specifically with child vaccines, child labor laws, hot lunches in schools and more. So while state PTA and National PTA work on things like bylaws and standing rules, the council is much more of an advisory, assisting training body that helps the individual units than I think the majority of people are more familiar with, because thats what they see face to face in the school, Clark said. The Council of the Year Award recognized a local PTA council that shows a commitment to the Oklahoma PTA and National PTAs mission and goals. Councils are nominated for the award and the council president must submit an essay as well as have a letter of recommendation from the districts superintendent, according to Oklahoma PTA President Wendy Hardwick. In the letter Clark submitted, some of the highlights included a Back to Basics program on PTA procedures and its roots in advocacy that was shared with the 19 Norman units. Also included in the letter was the Council and units partnership with the League of Women Voters of Norman for a candidate forum, a partnership with the Moore Council for a bipartisan legislative roundtable, and a Get to Know Your School Board newsletter that emphasized the school board election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through Norman PTAs work, they have educated the district, the superintendent, and their community on the mission of PTA, Hardwick said. The presidents essay included showing exceptional member training and education at the district level. They showed programming and events that were of value to all the stakeholders in the school system. The council showed a strong understanding of PTAs mission, which is to make every childs potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. Clark, who has stepped away from Norman PTA Council for a few years and returned as president this year, said she had already resigned herself to thinking that Norman would not win the award this year, as she said Tulsas PTA was a machine. Its been a big year and were really excited about it, Clark said. Community service can be thankless because we dont get paid to do this and to get that kind of recognition at the state level was really, really special. To add to the moment, Norman Public Schools Board of Education Vice President Alex Ruggiers was in attendance at the award ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are so lucky to have such an engaged and successful PTA and I know theyve been working so hard this year to really shine and to get that recognition was just fantastic, said Ruggies. Im so glad they got the recognition that they deserve. Jennifer Bellah, a member of the Roosevelt Elementary Schools PTA unit, was also recognized at the Oklahoma PTA annual convention. She is the recipient of the Anna King Volunteer of the Year Award. The award is named after Anna King, who served as president of Oklahoma PTA and later went on to be the 57th president of National PTA. Bellah, who joined the PTA groups in 2018, also win the Volunteer of the Year for the elementary school level of Norman PTA Council earlier this year. (Roosevelt Elementary) is so special to me for many reasons but the staff and the parents and the admins are, they work really hard, so I feel like it was a collaborative effort, she said. Even though I was the one recognized, it was definitely a collaborative effort. I think getting the Anna King Volunteer of the Year award was I was just floored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bellah added that she has learned more about Anna King since being nominated and receiving the award, adding that King was known for her servant leadership style that was rooted in humility and in courage. I just feel like that is what I want to be known for, is a servant leader, Bellah said. While on Roosevelts PTA, Bellah and another PTA member helped start a special-needs parent group called ARC, which stands for Advocacy, Resources and Community. Though it started originally at Roosevelt, Bellah said it has expanded to other schools. Its goal is to help parents advocate for their kids and learn more about being a special needs parents and how to engage with the school and special education staff. Bellah added that Roosevelt holds an Autism Acceptance Spirit Week each April to highlight what autism is and celebrate neurodiversity. During the spirit week, students learn about autism from special education staff, paraprofessionals, the librarian and more. Students also participate in a change war, where change is collected and donated toward the schools autism program. Last year, Bellah said they raised $8,000 from the change war and with community partner donations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bellah said shining the light on all the hard work of the Norman PTA Council is encouraging, adding that she feels the support flows from the top down, from NPS Superintendent Nick Migliorino to the volunteers at each site. The Norman PTA is such a vital part of our district, Ruggiers said. I dont think that the board could do everything that we want to without the support of our parents and teachers working together to support our kids and to support all the educators in our district. So seeing that we really are supported on that end means a lot to me as a board member. A crowd of about 40 gathered to take part in a rally opposing voter suppression in Raleigh on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC Newsline) A coalition of voting rights activists denounced efforts to disenfranchise North Carolina voters in state elections, rallying at the Capitol grounds on Wednesday in the shadow of the state Supreme Court. Members of the Court the Vote coalition made up of voting rights and progressive groups in the state such as Progress NC Action, the Justice Project, and Flip NC gathered in Raleigh before a crowd of around 40 to raise awareness of voter suppression efforts, with a focus on the state courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speakers trained much of their condemnation on Judge Jefferson Griffins efforts earlier this year to overturn the results of the 2024 North Carolina Supreme Court election, as well as on Chief Justice Paul Newby and Associate Justice Phil Berger Jr., who they identified as responsible for partisan maneuvering on the court. The court behind us, the Newby-Berger majority on the state Supreme Court, has repeatedly demonstrated that they are willing to put politics before people, whether its attacking voting rights, overturning fair maps, or blocking duly elected justices, said Julian Wolff, program director for the Justice Project a national nonprofit that works to promote impartial state courts and secure democracy. We remember what this court did to disenfranchise voters, especially veteran and active duty military voters. Griffin sought to invalidate votes cast by military and overseas voters who did not provide photo ID with their absentee ballots, which he argued was a violation of state election law. The North Carolina Supreme Court ruled in his favor on the issue, but a federal court intervened to prevent ballots from being discarded. Tysen Moy, a UNC School of Law student and Army veteran, said that if he were still overseas, his ballot could have been tossed out. I didnt bring my drivers license with me to Iraq, and youre not allowed by law to make a scan of a military ID. What would I have done? he asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also speaking at the rally was Cat Lawson, voter protection director for the North Carolina Democratic Party. She said while she wished voter rights were not a partisan issue, the reality is that we only have one party thats actually committed to doing the work to protect voting rights in North Carolina. Voter suppression looks like having your moms absentee ballot get rejected because a check mark was deemed unreadable by a newly Republican-controlled county board of elections, Lawson said. It looks like your elderly neighbor being confused about their polling site, because Republican county commissions are deciding that public schools and other public spaces cant be used for polling sites anymore. Demonstrators hold up signs at the Court the Vote rally on the North Carolina Capitol grounds on July 23, 2025. (Photo: Brandon Kingdollar/NC Newsline) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the rally observers were veterans, lawyers, and a broad spectrum of activists. Dave Ramirez, a friend of Moys and a U.S. Army Airborne veteran who attended the demonstration, called the Griffin challenge pathetic and said he hopes a lot of people start paying more attention to politics. I want to see bigger turnouts and stuff, he said. I think there are enough angry people out there you know, not so much angry, but just not happy with the current political situation I just hopefully want to see more people out. Denise Sturdy, a longtime corporate attorney who said she worked for the Republicans my entire career, warned that if the General Assembly succeeds in passing an overhaul of the state elections board that would replace a large portion of staff positions with political appointees, your votes are going to be suggestions. I am so happy the [Supreme Court challenge] was resolved the way it was, because had it fallen the other way, that would have been nationwide; that would have happened all across the United States, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Closing out the rally speeches was Melissa Price Kromm, executive director of North Carolina for the People Action, who stressed that our rights are under attack, most prominently the right to vote. She said her child was among those whose ballot was challenged. Here in North Carolina, we have judges who embrace partisanship and put party loyalty and ideology above the law and above the constitution, Price Kromm said. We deserve courts that are fair, independent, and accountable to the people, not to partisan operatives or corporate wealthy donors. BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. (WBOY) American Airlines will be the newest carrier at the North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB). The announcement comes after a special meeting on Tuesday where the Benedum Airport Authority accepted a bid to welcome the airline to Harrison County. Following a brief executive session, a unanimous agreement was reached to approve American Airlines two-year bid of $5.7 million to replace CKBs current partnership with Contour. CKB Director Rick Rock stated that along with the airline, the bid also comes with a CRJ 700 with dual class, 65-seat mainline aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charlotte, North Carolina, is confirmed destination of this bid, though in an interview with 12 News, Rock said he would like to negotiate the inclusion of a Chicago destination. Bridgeport Cattle Battle raises funds for FFA, showcases bull riding talent Naturally, theres a lot of people from West Virginia thats in Charlotte, so to continue that relationship going there, we want to have some consistency; were going to keep on changing. We want to make sure people have consistent options, you know, whats best for the passengers. Well just have to look at that, and we think that having this separate alternative going to those destinations compared to whats available, you know, locally or even in Pittsburgh, we thought this would be the best one, Rock said. Rock also stated that he hopes to build a long-term relationship with American Airlines, as its services will offer 12 round trips a week beginning on Dec. 1 once the bid is approved by the FAA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among American Airlines, CKB also considered hosting Air Wisconsin, Skywest, Delta through Skywest and renewing with Contour. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In less than two weeks, North Dakota residents will be able to buy blackout license plates for their vehicles. The "soon-to-be-very-popular" license plates will be available starting Aug. 1 at motor vehicle offices across the state, Brad Schaffer, director of driver and vehicle services for the state Department of Transportation, said in a Facebook video posted July 21. The legislation approving the license plates, which will feature a solid black background with white letters and numbers, was signed by North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong in April after it was approved by state lawmakers. How much will blackout license plates cost in North Dakota? A standard blackout license plate will cost $25 per year in addition to regular registration costs and if you want it personalized, that's another $25 per year. The regular registration fees for passenger vehicles in North Dakota vary by weight and the year the vehicle was first registered, ranging from $49 to $274, with extra costs for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. How many blackout license plates will be issued? The state Department of Transportation estimates more than 116,000 blackout license plates will be issued over the next four years, David Finley, a spokesperson for the department, told the Argus Leader in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That would generate about $6.7 million, though the plates would cost about $1.5 million to produce, Finley said. North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong signed legislation April 30 approving the license plates, which will feature a solid black background with white letters and numbers. What other states have blackout license plates? Iowa became the first state to issue blackout license plates in 2019, and more than 450,000 people in the state had them on their vehicles three years later. Minnesota made them available in 2024 and sold more than 248,000 that year, by far the most of any specialty license plate offered in the state. Colorado released three throwback license plates in 2023, including a black one based on the state's 1945 license plate. Nearly 170,000 black license plates were sold in the first year. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: North Dakota blackout license plates coming Aug. 1: How to get them North Dakota Capitol. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) The state of North Dakota urged the U.S. Supreme Court to let it use its preferred legislative district map after an appellate court found a federal judge was wrong to change the district lines last year. Attorneys for the state argued that courts have allowed private plaintiffs to challenge and destabilize state district maps for too long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Redistricting in a world where well-funded private plaintiffs can induce federal courts to strike down state maps based on theories like those that were asserted in this case becomes nearly impossible, the state wrote in a Tuesday filing. North Dakotas request concerns a lawsuit brought by the Spirit Lake Nation, Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and three tribal citizens that claims a redistricting plan adopted by the North Dakota Legislature in 2021 violates the Voting Rights Act by diluting the power of Native American voters. The state denies these allegations. A federal court judge sided with the plaintiffs in 2023 and ordered the state to change its district lines, putting the Spirit Lake and Turtle Mountain reservations into the same district. However, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals in May declared that finding invalid on the grounds that the plaintiffs lack standing to bring the lawsuit in the first place. Barring a reversal from the U.S. Supreme Court, the 8th Circuits decision would allow North Dakota to revert back to the map approved by state lawmakers in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tribes intend to petition the high court to review the case in the coming months. It remains to be seen which district map will be in place while their request is being considered. The plaintiffs have filed a motion asking the Supreme Court to order that the current map imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Peter Welte in 2024 remain for the time being. The plaintiffs argued that allowing North Dakotas 2021 map to go back into effect would harm Native American voters as well as potentially unseat three lawmakers. Under the old map, those three lawmakers would no longer live in the districts they serve, which could warrant their removal from office, attorneys for the Legislature have said. The state in a Tuesday brief disputed this interpretation. It said the Legislatures attorneys were merely throwing out hypotheticals and did not indicate there is a high probability that the lawmakers would be unseated if the 2021 district lines are reinstated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The high court last week issued an administrative stay that temporarily prevents the map from changing while the justices consider whether a longer-term stay is necessary. The state has to finalize the district map for the upcoming election cycle by Dec. 31, which means the Supreme Courts decision on the motion could be the final say on where the district lines fall for the 2026 election. In its Tuesday brief, North Dakota argued that granting the plaintiffs request could force the state to hold another election under a court-imposed map that the Eighth Circuit has now determined should never have been imposed to begin with. The state also addressed another major dispute central to the case: the implications of the 8th Circuits ruling on Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which outlaws racially discriminatory voting practices. The 8th Circuit concluded that the plaintiffs had no right to bring the lawsuit because private individuals cannot bring lawsuits under Section 2. The court found that Congress intended for this to be the sole responsibility of the U.S. Department of Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of this ruling, voters in all seven 8th Circuit states have no way of bringing lawsuits to challenge alleged racial discrimination under Section 2. No other appellate circuit has drawn similar conclusions about the statute. The state wrote that the 8th Circuit was right to make this conclusion. The plaintiffs, meanwhile, have argued that the appellate courts findings contradict U.S. Supreme Court precedent and take away an important tool for voters to protect their rights. On Tuesday afternoon, 15 Republican-led states filed a friend-of-the-court brief agreeing with North Dakotas position. They wrote that allowing private individuals and groups to bring lawsuits under Section 2 would upset the balance of power between the federal government and states. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, meanwhile, filed a brief in support of the tribes. The organization argued that there is a clear record of Congress supporting private enforcement of Section 2, including by amending the Voting Rights Act to make it easier for people to file such lawsuits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal group also noted that it has represented Black voters in private lawsuits filed under Section 2 since the 1940s. It said many of those lawsuits were ultimately heard by the U.S. Supreme Court, citing 19 cases ranging from 1953 to 2024. According to the legal group, the ability of citizens and organizations to enforce compliance with Section 2 through private litigation has helped make it the most successful civil rights law in American history. The plaintiffs have until October to file their official petition asking the Supreme Court to review the lawsuit. The seven states in the 8th Circuit are North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and Arkansas. The 15 states that filed the brief in support of North Dakotas position are Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas and West Virginia. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Despite immigration fears, North Las Vegas neighbors met with officials Tuesday to discuss a variety of law enforcement issues. The good turnout, a possible sign of the communitys trust. The quarterly Community Connection event was an opportunity for the North Las Vegas Police Department, NLV Code Enforcement, and Clark County School District police to engage with the residents. Around fifty neighbors attended the meetup and even the presenters acknowledged the attendance and anxiety. I had a couple people call and say, I dont want to call the police because I dont want to go to jail, North Las Vegas Councilwoman Ruth Garcia-Anderson said. I said you arent going to go to jail, but we are going to go in and assist them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community discussion to address Broadacres Marketplace closure abruptly canceled Garcia-Anderson said she was glad to see her neighborhood come out and force and ask questions about how to better their community with the assistance of city resourcesthe general anxiety not stopping them. One of the things that I that I say to my constituents when they call, when they reach out and they have concerns, Come to these events, she said. We know that theres so much information out there that is not its not true. Its not accurate. And what better opportunity to come to the library, which is a safe space. Its a space where families, children come. The packed library meeting room also offered an opportunity for questions from Frank Guarino, an over-30-year Las Vegas valley resident, to ask questions about how NLVPD and ICE interact. The quarterly Community Connection event was an opportunity for the North Las Vegas Police Department, NLV Code Enforcement, and Clark County School District police to engage with the residents. Around fifty neighbors attended the meetup and even the presenters acknowledged the attendance and anxiety. (KLAS) The quarterly Community Connection event was an opportunity for the North Las Vegas Police Department, NLV Code Enforcement, and Clark County School District police to engage with the residents. Around fifty neighbors attended the meetup and even the presenters acknowledged the attendance and anxiety. (KLAS) The quarterly Community Connection event was an opportunity for the North Las Vegas Police Department, NLV Code Enforcement, and Clark County School District police to engage with the residents. Around fifty neighbors attended the meetup and even the presenters acknowledged the attendance and anxiety. (KLAS) Is North Las Vegas providing the uniform presence to alleviate the confusion between citizens and the actual ICE agents, Guarino asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE raids causing fear, uncertainty among Las Vegas valley immigrant community North Las Vegas stance is we do abide by federal law, a North Las Vegas Police Department official said. But when it comes down to supporting and aligning next with ICE that hasnt been our experience yet. We are talking to navigate through what is going to be our approach with that. Our city leadership is at the table to ensure whatever mandates we need to follow to a federal statute we will. The question from Guarino came from a place close to home as his husband is legally going through the immigration process. I petitioned him over he finally got here in 2022, and he has friends that wont actually leave the house, he said. You know, his husband doesnt let him leave the house because hes too scared. And I tell him that those are not true reports. And you know, you may hear something, you may see something, but proper identification and local law enforcement helping those agents properly identify themselves is absolutely pertinent. Broadacres Marketplace in North Las Vegas temporarily closes citing ongoing ICE raids Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guarino said he and his husband are not deterred from becoming active members of their community, both joining the North Las Vegas Citizens Police Academy. My husband when he was fresh off the boat, in other words, he was literally freshly here back in 22 he attended the academy, he said. Its not just based upon citizens. Its open for everyone. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DENVER (KDVR) With more than 40 years in the fire service, North Metro Fire Rescue District is saying goodbye to its fire chief. A special retirement ceremony for David Ramos was held at North Metro Fire Station 61 in Broomfield. Free on Your TV New FOX31+ App for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV Ramos is said to have joined North Metro Fire in 1984, where he spent more than 25 years on the front lines serving the community. He worked his way up the ranks, starting from a firefighter position and ultimately being selected in 2014 to fill North Metro Fires fire chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a board member, I am in awe with how well Chief Ramos balanced the needs of every group he served, whether it was the board, employees, governmental partners or the community at large, said Richard Miller, treasurer and former president of North Metro Fires board of directors, in a press release. He was an attentive listener and found ways to bring people together. Above all, he was a leader who earned respect and exemplified integrity, compassion, honesty and transparency. North Metro Fire Rescue said Ramose has played an important role in revitalizing fire stations, investing in newer equipment and vehicles, with the thought of providing better care and protection to community members and firefighters. The station also noted that Ramos was instrumental in collaborating with other north area leaders to develop an integrated 911 dispatching hub to reduce emergency response times across the north area region. Its been an honor to have someone like Chief Ramos as a mentor and friend, said incoming North Metro Fire Chief Mark Daugherty. He built an incredible culture here that prioritizes professionalism, innovation, teamwork and service over self. Most importantly, he was a leader who truly cared about those he worked with and those he served, and we are all better for the example he set for us to follow. Advertisement 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. Levelling up has been part of the political parlance since the Conservatives 2019 manifesto, spawning an eponymous government department which promised economic prosperity would finally spread further afield than London and the South East, across otherwise flagging parts of the UK. Yet that goal along with the departments name appears to have fallen by the wayside, if todays graduates are anything to go by. Six in 10 top academic achievers from outside London leave their hometown by the age of 32, according to figures from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS). The research also highlighted that graduates born in 1997 are 8pc more likely to relocate for work than those born in 1986. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just over a quarter of young workers with the top 5pc of GCSE scores reside in London, despite only half of that number having grown up there. Such movement of the countrys most academically gifted workers exacerbates regional division, the report found. But efforts are being made to buck this trend, as other UK cities look to attract talent of their own. Manchester is successfully pulling in early-career workers from surrounding areas. These workers unlike those who leave for London are more likely to return to the locale they grew up in once they reach their early 30s. The largest northern city is a great base for career-starters, says Paul Marriott, managing director of recruitment service, Hays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manchester has emerged as a major hub particularly in sectors like tech, digital marketing, finance and professional services, he says. The citys strong university presence and vibrant business ecosystem make it a natural choice for companies looking to tap into fresh talent. Last month, at an event in its 1.7bn innovation district, Manchester positioned itself as the burgeoning capital of the UKs 120m life sciences sector and businesses across the board appear to have cottoned on to its appeal. After launching its newsroom in Leeds a couple of years ago, Channel 4 is to open offices at Manchesters 150m No 1 St Michaels, while BT has also signed off on a new flagship hub for 2,000 staff. At the end of last year, IBM also confirmed it would be pitching up in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governmental departments have also been on the move away from London. In May, it was announced that thousands of civil service jobs would be relocated across UK towns and cities, requiring more senior and policy roles to be based outside the capital. Were certainly seeing a noticeable shift as companies look beyond London to expand their footprint, says Marriott, with the likes of Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Bristol investing heavily in infrastructure, innovation hubs and culture to attract top-tier talent. From a recruitment standpoint, he says this decentralisation is creating exciting opportunities. Companies are looking beyond London to expand their footprint to areas such as Manchester (pictured), Birmingham, Leeds and Bristol - Allan Baxter/The Image Bank RF Its beneficial for workers, too. Professionals now have more access to high-quality opportunities without the financial strain of London living, while employers benefit from a broader, more diverse talent pool, Marriott says. London is the corporate hotspot Despite this, many ambitious young workers find they have little choice but to move to London in order to secure the career they want. This was the case for Kirstie-Anne Woodman, who moved to the capital after graduating with a degree in international relations and politics aged 22. After graduating, Kirstie-Anne Woodman felt she had little choice but to move to London to secure the career she wanted - Belinda Jiao I knew that if I wanted to maximise my income and do well in the future, that I needed to come down to London to get a good career, because London is the corporate hotspot, Woodman, now 26, says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trying to flourish as a corporate communications consultant in her hometown of Milton Keynes was not an option, she explains for her, or the vast majority of her cohort from the University of Birmingham. By going to a top university you are typically a high-flyer, [and] somewhat ambitious just by virtue of having gone to that institution, Woodman says of her reasoning for the move. Quite literally all of my friends are here now. The motivations are simple, with career progression and money chief among them. I know that were I still living in Milton Keynes, I would earn significantly less than I do now, Woodman adds. Xiaowei Xu, who authored the IFS report, says that as this trend spreads, it massively reinforces Britains geographical inequalities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a bit of a self-reinforcing cycle, in that weve got these better jobs in London, and therefore London pulls in talent from all across the country, she says. As a result, we have places outside the South East especially suffering from that brain drain, Xu adds. Plus, the expansion of cities outside London can compound the issue of young people upping sticks in smaller towns. It can mean that other regions particularly rural or less economically developed areas can struggle to retain graduates, Marriott says. Hybrid work, he suggests, may be one way to stave this off, as it allows people to stay local while accessing opportunities on a national or international scale. But the buzz being generated by cities investing big will inevitably reinforce talent silos across the UK. The key challenge now is ensuring that regions outside the major cities continue to invest in career pathways and infrastructure to keep talent engaged and rooted, Marriott adds. Its a myth that were earning bucketloads in London If well-executed, this investment could lure graduates away from the likes of London, where the financial strain is increasingly being felt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between the rising cost of living and paltry salaries in April, a quarter of entry-level jobs requiring a degree paid just above the minimum wage, while in January, the average rent in London was 2,300 per month corporate life in the capital doesnt always feel lucrative, Woodman says. Its a myth that in London were earning bucketloads. In the grand scheme of things, I still believe Im underpaid for the city in which I live, but it is better than being in the suburbs. Xu says that even if figures dont currently look all too promising for graduates moving to the capital, relocating for work does usually pay off. At the start of their careers, theres not a huge difference between graduate pay in London and other cities like Oxford and Cambridge. Then, several years into their careers, that gap massively widens, she explains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People at the very top of the distribution of ability are going to have much, much higher incomes. And as a proportion of their incomes, rents will be lower, so they will still see substantial gains to being in London. Xu believes that while Manchester has increased its ability to draw leavers back, the influx of graduates descending on London and never returning is set to continue. People are moving to London because there are opportunities, but then there are opportunities because all the talent is in London, she says. Its hard to break out of that cycle. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Federal funds have been approved to help repair and rebuild Northern Michigan communities after a late March ice storm. Im glad to have received word from President Trump committing federal funds to help Northern Michigan communities impacted by the historic ice storm damage earlier this year, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer wrote in a social media post. DNR: Northern state grounds still recovering from ice storms Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Federal Emergency Management Agency said the funding will be available for state, tribal and some local governments and nonprofits to cover the costs of emergency work, repair and replacement of eligible facilities that were damaged in the storm. Groups in the following communities are eligible, according to FEMA: Alcona, Alpena Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Kalkaska, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. To apply for assistance, affected residents and businesses owners should go to DisasterAssistance.gov, the FEMA App or call 800.621.FEMA (3362). At the beginning of July, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said around 60% of trails in the region were still temporarily closed after the March 28-30 storm that caused widespread damage across northern Michigan. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for 12 counties following the storm. The DNR closed 19 state parks, 162 boating access sites and 54 state campgrounds. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Donald Trump is getting heat on social media for making a claim on Tuesday about cutting drug prices thats essentially mathematically impossible. Trump began promisingly enough with a complaint shared by Democrats and Republicans alike: the high cost of medication, and how much more Americans pay for some medications than patients in other countries. He promised to reduce those costs but to a very unlikely degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were gonna get the drug prices down. Not 30% or 40%, which would be great. Not 50% or 60%. No, were gonna get them down 1,000%, 600%, 500%, 1,500%, Trump said at a Republican dinner. Numbers that are not even thought to be achievable. Critics quickly pointed out the reason those numbers are not thought to be achievable: reducing the price by 100% would make the drugs free. Reducing it by 1,000%, 600%, 500%, 1,500%, as Trump said, would make the cost negative dollars with the drug company essentially paying people to take the medication. Several users asked Grok, the AI chatbot on X, if Trumps numbers made sense. Grok called Trumps claim mathematically impossible, hyperbolic and not literal and total bullshit. But Trump insisted he could use a certain talent that I have to convince pharmaceutical companies that they have no choice but to reduce their prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also mentioned an executive order he signed in May to invoke most-favored nation status in drug costs, which he says would ensure that drug companies cant charge Americans any more than what they charge patients in other nations. However, the details of that plan remain hazy, and at least one pharmaceutical CEO said discussions with the White House are ongoing and expected to take time. Trump on Tuesday insisted that his order will lead to those price cuts. We will have reduced drug prices by 1,000%, by 1,100, 1,200, 1,300, 1,400, 700, 600, he said. Not 30 or 40 or 50%, but numbers the likes of which youve never even dreamed of before. Trumps critics offered some free math lessons: As someone who graduated from first grade, this is not how numbers work. https://t.co/dx4lMcQTAb Hemant Mehta (@hemantmehta) July 23, 2025 Thank goodness this guy isn't negotiating the percentages we pay in tariffs. https://t.co/x7EppKShSq Justin Wolfers (@JustinWolfers) July 23, 2025 Quite a trick if he can do it. Are we going into negative numbers where big Pharma pays me to take their drugs? Dj Omega Mvp (@DjOmegaMVP) July 23, 2025 Hard to imagine this guy was found liable of fraud for making up numbers https://t.co/vgjVF1q2DI MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) July 23, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The economics department at Wharton must be incredibly proud of this man's fundamental understanding of basic math. https://t.co/kuwIorU8TL Franklin Leonard (@franklinleonard) July 23, 2025 Cant wait fill my next zpack at cvs and leave with a stack of their money https://t.co/EgT12GMTul Ronnie (@Gem_Mint_Cards_) July 23, 2025 Getting paid to take drugs sounds awesome where do I sign up TCL (@TitleTalkTCL) July 23, 2025 Universal Prescription Income. Your move, Yang https://t.co/7QbV09x3Xe Roger Sollenberger (@SollenbergerRC) July 23, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What kind of math is this? https://t.co/yu5kzUJEeO Wu Tang is for the Children (@WUTangKids) July 23, 2025 And people wonder how this idiot bankrupted casinos. https://t.co/5xtlIrj0Gd Jo (@JoJoFromJerz) July 23, 2025 Negative drug prices are on the way ! https://t.co/HLflM8fdZK Christopher Schultz (@nalyticsatwork) July 23, 2025 This is the fucking genius. https://t.co/JkEHJbqB01 Fred Wellman (@FPWellman) July 23, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nothing is being done!: Boston backlog of thousands of 311 hazardous sidewalk complaints piles up A backlog of thousands of 311 complaints about hazardous sidewalks across Boston is estimated to cost the city $800 million dollars. According to city data, of the 5,700 reports of sidewalk defects made throughout 2024, more than two-thirds remained open as of June. Boston City Councilor Erin Murphy filed a hearing order in April to address the lagging progress. Neighbors waited months for a hearing to address the tripping hazards all over the city, and it was finally scheduled to happen on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents who were eager to testify were disappointed to learn it was cancelled without further explanation. Hundreds of residents have reached out to me personally about this issue, said At-Large Boston City Councilor Erin Murphy. Some even showed up today at City Hall because there was no formal announcement. Councilor Murphy told Boston 25 News she doesnt fully understand why the meeting was called off by the Enrique Pepen. Pepen, who serves as Chair of the City Council Committee on City Services, told Boston 25 News he wants to make sure all the right people are in the room with answers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said it wasnt cancelled but rather postponed and that he expects to reschedule in August. It just delays the process, said Roxbury resident Ruthie Burton. Nothing is being done! Burton said the cracked and raised sidewalks near her Roxbury home have kept her busy complaining to 311. She said her complaints are getting closed but doesnt believe the sidewalks are being fixed properly. You should never close out a 311 complaint until the work is actually done, she said. Thats unacceptable. Burton said her fears were validated when her neighbor fell on a broken sidewalk several weeks ago and busted her knee open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others have their own stories about falling on uneven sidewalks. Im 84-years-old, and Ive tripped quite a few times, said South End resident Robert Bonds. The best thing to do if youre an elderly person is actually walk in the street. A City of Boston spokesperson sent the following statement to Boston 25 News: The City of Boston remains committed to improving our infrastructure and ensuring safe, accessible streets and sidewalks for all residents. In 2024, we made significant progress by repairing or reconstructing 16.3 miles of sidewalks - nearly double the average of the previous three years. This marked a major step forward in addressing a longstanding backlog of sidewalk repair requests. The momentum continues in 2025 with the launch of six new neighborhood-specific sidewalk contracts in Allston-Brighton, Mattapan, Roslindale, and Mission Hill. In addition, two citywide contracts have been executed to address both brick and concrete sidewalk repairs across Boston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To further support these efforts, the Public Works Department (PWD) maintains a dedicated in-house team of skilled craftsmen who provide timely repairs to brick sidewalks reported through Boston 311. Their work plays a critical role in improving pedestrian safety and accessibility throughout the city. Over the past three years, 73% of capital funds allocated through the Streets Cabinet have been invested in the maintenance of roads, sidewalks, and bridges - demonstrating our continued commitment to strengthening Bostons infrastructure and enhancing the daily experience of everyone who lives, works, and travels in our city. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Despite the Oak Lawn Village Board voting Tuesday to prohibit the sale of kratom and THC products, Mayor Terry Vorderer says the village will wait to enforce the law. The prohibition of kratom and THC products, including Delta-9, was added to the tobacco retail regulation ordinance. But Vorderer said he learned from attorneys after the vote the ordinance may need to be reworked. They explained that that product is not really a tobacco product, Vorderer said Wednesday. Thus, I instructed our staff not to enforce the kratom part, and well go back and modify or look at that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board tabled the measure after a June 24 meeting attendee attested to the benefits of kratom, saying he would do more research on the product. Kratom is an herbal substance from Southeast Asia commonly used for pain relief, mood enhancement and withdrawal symptoms. Though it is not regulated by the United State Food and Drug Administration, the FDA estimates about 2 million Americans used kratom in 2021. The ordinance amendment passed Tuesday stated the village was experiencing a proliferation of retail stores selling products containing potentially intoxicating ingredients, including kratom and THC. These unregulated products result in certain adverse effects, including hallucination, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, dizziness, confusion and loss of consciousness, as well as negative impacts on certain brain functions related to memory, learning, decision making and emotions, the ordinance states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearby communities have similarly worked to ban the sale of kratom and other drug products. In Tinley Park, the sale, distribution and use of kratom were made illegal last year, though businesses primarily profiting from kratom sales were given a 12-month amnesty period. The Orland Park Village Board passed a similar ordinance last May, banning kratom, tianeptine, Delta-8, and other novel synthetic and psychoactive drug products. Vorderer said he has worked to regulate the sales of drug products in Oak Lawn, saying we dont want to be in the drug dispensing business. He said the Village Board previously voted not to allow marijuana dispensaries and capped the number of tobacco retailers at 12. Vorderer acknowledged he still has a lot to learn about products like kratom and their purported medical benefits and continues to discuss the affects of regulation with business owners. While for now the ban will not be enforced, village staff members will advise businesses if that changes, he said. ostevens@chicagotribune.com Stewart Rhodes is as dyed-in-the-wool MAGA as it gets. The Yale-educated founder of the far-right Oath Keepers militia group embraced Donald Trump in 2016sharing his animus toward the supposed deep state cabal controlling Washingtonthen, naturally, took part in the January 6 Capitol attack in 2021. (We should have brought rifles. Id hang fucking Pelosi from the lamppost, he told fellow militia members days later.) Trump, in turn, commuted his 18-year sentence. Now, Rhodes has joined the ranks of MAGA faithful urging the seemingly reluctant president to provide full transparency on the case of notorious sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein. Trumps Justice Department and FBI earlier this month roiled his base with a memo dismissing conspiracy theories alleging that Epstein had kept a client list and did not commit suicide in prison. The president has, in recent days, taken to calling what was once a cause celebre in Trumpworld a Democratic hoax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a meeting of the anti-government True Texas Project last week, per video obtained by The Daily Beast, Rhodes expressed his disappointment that Trump was, by his reckoning, being led astray by the deep state. I believe 90 percent of his own base understands that Epstein was up to something, and we know thats the tip of the iceberg, Rhodes said. Its really disheartening to see President Trump just declare that to be a hoax. I dont think it is. And I think its going to cause him trouble in his own base. It already is, he continued, per the Beast. Someone in his circle has convinced him that, Oh this is like Hunter Bidens laptop story. Its not. This is the deep states dirty laundry in the deep states greatest Achilles heel. Their job now is to distract him, run the clock out until hes gone without him actually going after the root of the deep state, the heart and soul of it, Rhodes went on. And I do believe the heart and soul of the deep state is all the dirty laundry thats held in all those files in the FBI, CIA, NSA against all these political elites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhodes evidently maintains his faith in Trump as a noble crusader for the truth. In the comments reported by the Beast, he ignores the prospect that Trumps foot-dragging on Epstein could, possibly, owe to the so-called Epstein files inclusion of embarrassing disclosures about the presidentwho, after all, had a storied relationship with the deceased financier that new reporting is bringing more clearly into view. Attributing Trumps survival of the July 2024 assassination attempt to divine intervention, Rhodes remarked, God saved him for a purpose, and that purpose is to defeat the deep state. Its not to make great trade deals. Its not to have a great economy. Its not any of that stuff. The real heart and soul of it is to defeat the deep state, because if he doesnt do that, its going to be exponentially worse for all of us. He urged those in attendance to keep pushing. Former President Barack Obama at the Obama Foundations Democracy Forum in Chicago on Dec. 5, 2024. Credit - Scott OlsonGetty Images I wish her well, Donald Trump famously said in 2020 of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins partner Ghislaine Maxwell. When journalist Jonathan Swan prodded the President that Maxwell was in jail on charges of sex trafficking, Trump even responded with surprising deference to the criminal justice process: Id wish you well. Id wish a lot of people well. Good luck. Let them prove somebody was guilty. But he isnt taking the same tone now with former President Barack Obama. Hes guilty. Its not a question, Trump said Tuesday. This was treason. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps denunciation of his predecessor came as he has attempted to deflect scrutiny, including from many of his own former supporters, over his relationship with Epstein and his Administrations attempt earlier this month to close the case despite allies having fanned conspiracy theories that past governments suppressed evidence incriminating powerful elites and having previously vowed to make such evidence public once Trump returned to power. At the White House, Trump dismissed the unabating controversy surrounding Epstein and Maxwell as a witch hunt, telling reporters that the witch hunt that you should be talking about is that they caught President Obama absolutely cold. They tried to rig the election, and they got caught, and there should be very severe consequences for that, Trump said, referring to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbards recent declassification of Russia-probe-related documents that she claimed amounted to a treasonous conspiracy by the Obama Administration to subvert Trumps 2016 election victory and subsequent presidency. Read More: Trump Envisions Jailing Obama as Tulsi Gabbard Threatens Prosecutions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is like proof, irrefutable proof, that Obama was sidacious [sic], that Obama was trying to lead a coup, Trump asserted, apparently mispronouncing seditious. This is the biggest scandal in the history of our country. Trump rattled off a list of alleged co-conspiratorsformer Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic nominee for President Hillary Clinton, former Vice President and President Joe Biden, former FBI Director James Comey, former Director of National Intelligence James Clapperbut insisted that the leader of the gang was President Obama. Its time to go after people, Trump said. What they did in 2016 and in 2020 is very criminal. Its criminal at the highest level. So thats really the things that you should be talking about. Obama issues rare rebuke Since leaving office, Obama has largely refrained from commenting on the goings-on of his successors. But on Tuesday, he issued a rare response to Trumps accusations via a spokesperson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. The statement added that Gabbards so-called evidence does not undercut the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. It noted that these findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio, who is now Trumps Secretary of State and acting National Security Adviser. Democrats have largely echoed Obamas response, accusing Trump and his allies of attempting to distract from Epstein. Another day, another wave of absurd lies and distractions from Donald Trump, Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland posted on X. Its clear he wants us talking about *anything* other than his refusal to release the Epstein filesor rising prices. Its not going to work. Nothing has made me more confident that Trump committed crimes with Jeffrey Epstein and is now covering them up than this insane administration pivot to calling Obama seditious and guilty of treason, posted former Obama staffer turned liberal pundit Tommy Vietor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Fox News, Gabbard accused Obama and congressional Democrats of trying to deflect away from what actually happened. Gabbard has said that more evidence will be produced shortly, with Trump telling reporters earlier that she told him there were thousands of additional documents coming. Can Obama really be tried for treason? Former deputy assistant attorney general Elliot Williams told CNN, where he is a legal analyst, that its very unlikely that Obama will even be charged with, let alone convicted of, any crime related to Gabbards claims. There is not a serious case here for treason or sedition or whatever else, Williams said. The U.S. Constitution sets a specific definition for treason, summarized by Cornell Law Schools Legal Information Institute as the betrayal of ones own country by attempting to overthrow the government through waging war against the State or materially aiding its enemies. It is punishable by imprisonment or even death. Gabbards suggestion that Obama betrayed the U.S. government by directing a supposedly misleading intelligence assessment is just silly, said Williams. Intelligence assessments are sometimes ambiguous. There are different opinions that can be made about them, but merely disagreeing with one or the findings of one or whats drawn from one is not treason, he said. Now, can it be a hassle and a pain in the ass to the person whos investigated, whos got to hire a lawyer and go through all the motions? Sure. But this is not an investigation to be grounded in any reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond that, theres also the issue of presidential immunity. In a ruling favorable to Trump last year, the Supreme Court established a broad framework that former Presidents enjoy absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority and at least presumptive immunity from prosecution for all his official acts. Before Trump v. US, people could ask pesky questions like, If President Obama committed so many crimes, why hasnt the DOJ indicted him? But Presidential immunity makes evidence of wrongdoing (or lack thereof in Obamas case) irrelevant, Milan Markovic, a law professor at Texas A&M University, posted on Bluesky. Posted Graham Steele, former assistant secretary for financial institutions at the Treasury Department and a fellow at the Rock Center for Corporate Governance at Stanford Law School: One of SCOTUSs rationales for the Trump immunity decision was that it would protect former presidents of *both parties* from political prosecutions. And yet, this administration is openly talking about indicting a former Democratic president on (literally and figuratively) trumped-up charges. But when conservative commentator Benny Johnson asked rightwing lawyer Mike Davis, who has been dubbed Trumps chief legal defender, about presidential immunity as well as the statute of limitations, which for most federal crimes is five years, Davis rejected those potential obstacles to prosecuting Obama. He might be able to claim presidential immunity for his actions while he was the President of the United States, and theyll have to litigate that, Davis said. But Ill tell you this, its an ongoing criminal conspiracy, and presidential immunity covers his actions while hes the President of the United States. They dont cover his actions when hes the former President of the United States and when hes participating in the cover-up of this conspiracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice is coming, Davis warned Democrats. I dont think well put you in Mike Davis gulagthe viceroys gulag, as we joke, as we trollbut justice is definitely coming, and I think the Bureau of Prisons will have plenty of space for these people. Contact us at letters@time.com. Barack Obama and Donald Trump are squaring off over Republicans push to remap two red states, with the former Democratic president fundraising against his successors effort to maintain control over Congress next year, according to an invitation obtained by POLITICO. Obama will headline an August fundraiser in Marthas Vineyard for a Democratic redistricting group thats fighting the GOP-led efforts in Texas and Ohio, per the invitation. The dinner and discussion which will benefit the National Democratic Redistricting Committee and its affiliates is in response to Texas Republicans angling to redraw their states maps to more heavily favor their party ahead of the midterms. Also attending the event are NDRC chair Eric Holder, who was Obamas attorney general, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obamas involvement in the fundraiser underscores the importance of the issue for Democrats, who have a chance to retake control over the House next year, after losing both chambers of Congress and the White House in 2024. Trump, recognizing his partys slim hold on the House, is pressuring Republicans to take an aggressive approach to redrawing congressional maps in at least two states. In addition to Texas, the president is insisting Republicans in Ohio which is legally required to redraw its maps aggressively redistrict the state to maximize GOP majority districts. The NDRC has worked to implement a nationwide redistricting strategy for Democrats, and plans to back state-level electoral campaigns in 13 states through 2026. The group's 501(c)(3) affiliate, the National Redistricting Foundation, has backed lawsuits in a number of states to stop Republican gerrymanders and has funded legal challenges related to redistricting since Holder founded it in 2017. A spokesperson for the organization would not provide a fundraising target for the upcoming Obama soiree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obama has long shown an interest in redistricting minimally a once-per-decade process to respond to population shifts recorded in the U.S. Census, and one that is rife with partisan politics. He has deep ties to the NDRC and remains close with Holder. His first fundraiser after leaving office was for the group, as was his first fundraiser after the 2020 election. Obama hosted an event that netted $1.5 million for the group in 2023, POLITICO reported at the time. The former president has so far made few public appearances during Trumps second term, and the Aug. 19 fundraiser is just his second fundraiser this year. It comes as Trump has urged Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott to get the legislature to improve the number of GOP-held seats in the state to as many as five additional ones as Democrats make a play to protect their turf and fight for a Senate seat in the Lone Star State. State lawmakers began a special legislative session aimed at doing so earlier this week, and it's still unclear what map they will adopt. If the race for the House is as close as it was last year, the Texas seats could determine which party controls the chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, Democrats have struggled to respond to Texas and Ohio other than sounding the alarm. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has been loudly floating options for gerrymandering in his own state, but electoral and legal hurdles persist. And New York lawmakers haven't been interested in pursuing a redraw. The Republican strategy is not without risk. As Democrats continue to warn, by redrawing maps mid-cycle, the GOP stands to spark backlash or potentially draw districts in a way that doesn't account for new voters, thereby inadvertently helping Democrats. But as the GOP barrels toward next years elections, it is exploring every avenue to maintain its razor-thin majority. Former President Barack Obama's office issued a rare rebuke of President Donald Trump on Tuesday after the president accused his predecessor of having committed "treason" and rigging the 2016 and 2020 elections. "Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response," Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said. "But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction." When reporters on Tuesday asked Trump about the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, he pivoted to what he called Obama's "criminality." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After what they did to me and whether its right or wrong, its time to go after people. Obamas been caught directly, Trump told reporters. What they did in 2016 and 2020 is very criminal. Its criminal at the highest level. So thats really the things you should be talking about. Look, hes guilty. Its not a question, Trump added. This was treason. This was every word you can think of. They tried to steal the election. They tried to obfuscate the election. Trump was referring to claims made by National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe in social media posts and television appearances that they had found Obama administration officials manipulated intelligence and conspired to undermine the legitimacy of Trumps electoral victory in 2016. Gabbard posted on social media on Friday that she was making a criminal referral to the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At an event with congressional Republicans later Tuesday, Trump praised Gabbard and again accused Obama of being part of an effort to rig the elections. These are vicious, horrible people, he said of the former president and others. Rodenbush said the Trump administration is being misleading about the information it's using to push its claims. "Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio," Rodenbush said. Asked to comment on Obama's statement, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said, "The White House is appreciative of Director Gabbards commitment to transparency and effort to end the weaponization of government against American citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard alleges the documents show that Russia did not seek to interfere in the 2016 election for Trump's benefit, despite numerous investigations that showed otherwise. On Dec 8, 2016, IC officials prepared an assessment for the Presidents Daily Brief, finding that Russia 'did not impact recent U.S. election results' by conducting cyber attacks on infrastructure. Before it could reach the President, it was abruptly pulled 'based on new guidance.' This key intelligence assessment was never published, Gabbard wrote in one post. The Obama administration, however, never claimed that Russian cyberattacks impacted the election results. I can assure the public that there was not the kind of tampering with the voting process that was of concern the votes that were cast were counted they were counted appropriately, Obama said from the White House, days after receiving the December 2016 brief to which Gabbard referred. The Obama White House said that Russia sought to interfere in the campaign by leaking hacked documents and using bots and troll farms to spread misinformation about the election a finding that was later backed by special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation and a Senate report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another special counsel, appointed by then-Attorney General Bill Barr and championed by Trump, investigated claims that the Russia-related investigations were politicized for over three years. John Durham's report was critical of the FBI's handling of the probe, saying that it found senior "FBI personnel displayed a serious lack of analytical rigor toward the information they received" but nothing to the level of criminality now alleged by Trump. The Senate report, meanwhile, was unequivocal about Russia's actions. The Committees bipartisan Report found that Russias goal in its unprecedented hack-and-leak operation against the United States in 2016, among other motives, was to assist the Trump Campaign. Candidate Trump and his Campaign responded to that threat by embracing, encouraging, and exploiting the Russian effort," the report said. Democratic lawmakers said the administration is trying to rewrite history in order to assuage Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is just another example of the DNI trying to cook the books, rewrite history, and erode trust in the intelligence agencies shes supposed to be leading, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., said in a statement. House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar of California told NBC News on Monday that its all a distraction." "[T]heyll release anything if it buys them another day or two to not talk about Epstein or to get the angry mob to talk about Epstein, Aguilar said. The Russia investigation is only one of a number of old grievances that Trump has revived in recent days while coping with backlash from MAGA supporters about the handling of the Epstein case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has used his Truth Social platform to accuse his old foe Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., of breaking the law and shared AI-generated mug shots of various Democratic officials who've been Republican bogeymen over the years. The Justice Department, meanwhile, released thousands of files related to Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination on Monday and announced it had sent a redacted report to Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, about the FBIs handling of files related to former-FBI Director James Comeys failed investigation into Hillary Clintons mishandling of highly classified information during Clintons time as secretary of state. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Former President Barack Obama has released a rare statement on Russia-gate after President Donald Trump accused him of committing treason. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement published by multiple outlets Tuesday. The allegations against Obama stemmed from a report issued Friday by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard claimed Obama and his top officials committed treasonous conspiracy in the investigation surrounding Russias interference in the 2016 election. Russia has denied meddling in the election and Trump has insisted the assessments about the interference are a hoax. Former President Barack Obama called the Trump administrations allegations about Russia-gate' bizarre after President Donald Trump accused him of committing 'treason.' (Getty) The national intelligence director said she was referring Obama administration officials, including ex-FBI director James Comey, to the Justice Department for prosecution over allegations they had manufactured intelligence to substantiate the idea that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to help Trump beat Obamas former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The anti-Obama rhetoric continued when Gabbard appeared on Maria Bartiromos Fox News show Sunday Morning Futures over the weekend and accused the former president of orchestrating a years-long coup to keep Trump from the White House. Trump shared a fake, AI- generated, video of Obama being arrested and thrown in jail on his Truth Social account Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Oval Office Tuesday, Trump accused his predecessor of treason. "It's there, he's guilty. This was treason," Trump said, according to Reuters. "They tried to steal the election, they tried to obfuscate the election. They did things that nobody's ever imagined, even in other countries." Trump did not provide any evidence to back up his claims. "It's there, he's guilty. This was treason," Trump said of Obama in the Oval Office Tuesday, following his administration's claims that the former president was involved in a conspiracy to keep him out of the White House (AFP/Getty) After days of accusations and threats of prosecution being hurled at Obama the former president released a statement. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response, Rodenbush said. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, he added. Rodenbush also mentioned the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committees 2020 report that found Russia used resources, including Republican political operative Paul Manafort and the WikiLeaks website, to try to influence the 2016 election in Trumps favor. The report did not conclude the Trump campaign engaged with Russia to help carry out the alleged conspiracy. The allegations against Obama stemmed from a report issued Friday by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard (Getty) The new allegations against Obama come as the Trump administration is embroiled in its own conflict surrounding the handling of government files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Gabbard called Obamas statement the art of deflection in a Fox News interview Tuesday. She then repeated her earlier talking points: "Led by President Obama, there was an effort to create a document that would serve as a foundation for what would be a years-long coup against President Trump, therefore trying to subvert the will of the American people. (NewsNation) President Barack Obamas team has labeled President Donald Trumps claims that Obama committed treason and should be prosecuted bizarre and called them a weak attempt at distraction. Obama has remained largely quiet during Trumps presidency, choosing not to reply to Trumps remarks about him. But in a statement on Tuesday, his spokesperson said the latest comments from the sitting president were outrageous enough to merit a reply even if he does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump made his latest claims during a press conference with Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., veering onto the tangent after a reporter asked him about the Jeffrey Epstein files. Trump says Obama should be criminally prosecuted He said, without providing evidence, that Obama had attempted to rig the 2016 election, also attacking others including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, President Joe Biden and former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Obamas office said in a statement. Trump also said that the Department of Justice is looking into a report from current Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard that repeated the claims, citing declassified emails to paint the picture of a conspiracy to change intelligence assessments on Russian interference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard alleged that Obama directed his national security team to create an assessment that she said contradicted an earlier one that found no Russian interference. Democrats struggle with fundraising as RNC holds cash advantage The assessments referenced, however, refer to two different aspects of possible interference, with one finding that Russia was unlikely to be able to interfere with election infrastructure or change vote tallies and the other finding that Russia did try to influence the election and weaken trust in democracy using tools such as social media bots and releasing hacked information. How close were Trump, Epstein? What we know about their friendship Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement from Obamas office noted that there was bipartisan acceptance of findings that include the conclusion that Russia did work to interfere in the election. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, the statement said. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio. Statement from Patrick Rodenbush, Spokesperson for President Obama Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. July 22 (UPI) -- Former President Barack Obama called a Russian collusion intelligence report genuine after President Donald Trump earlier on Tuesday accused Obama of treason. Obama responded to Friday's report by the office of the Director of National Intelligence that accused Obama and his Cabinet of manufacturing an intelligence report to falsely accuse Russia of acting to ensure Trump defeated Hillary Clinton during the 2016 election. "Nothing in that document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes," Obama spokesman Patrick Rodenbush said in a prepared statement on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio." National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard last week accused the Obama administration of engaging in a "treasonous conspiracy" to undermine Trump's first term in office. Rodenbush called the allegation "ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction." Trump earlier in the day accused Obama of "trying to lead a coup" with Hillary Clinton. "The witch hunt you should be talking about is they caught President Obama," Trump told media at the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump made the comment after media asked him about the controversial Jeffrey Epstein files during a visit from Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday. "It's time to go after people," Trump said. "Obama's been caught directly." Gabbard in the DNI report said Obama, then-Vice President Joe Biden and members of the Obama Cabinet conspired to create a false report of Russian collusion that led to a years-long coup to remove Trump as president. The report accuses Obama and others in his administration of pressuring the nation's intelligence community to revise an earlier assessment to suggest Russia acted on behalf of Trump to help him win the presidential election against Clinton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It says the Obama administration "manufactured and politicized intelligence" and leaked it to media to undermine Trump's presidency. Gabbard referred the matter to the Department of Justice on Monday for further investigation and possible criminal prosecution. Changing ocean hues could bring some environmental blues, according to a new study from researchers at Duke and Georgia Tech. Using satellite data collected from 2003 to 2022, the researchers looked for changes in chlorophyll concentration, which can signal where large amounts of phytoplankton are, since they reflect green light. Too much phytoplankton can be a problem. They act like sponges, soaking up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and when they die and sink to the ocean bottom, carbon goes with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If carbon sinks deeper or in places where water doesnt resurface for a long time, it stays stored much longer, said Nicolas Cassar, chair at Duke Universitys Nicholas School of the Environment, in a statement. In contrast, shallow carbon can return to the atmosphere more quickly, reducing the effect of phytoplankton on carbon storage. Satellite data showed that the ocean is getting more green at latitudes away from the equator, meaning theres a higher concentration of chlorophyll there than areas closer to the equator. Warming oceans are correlated with changes in chlorophyll concentration, the study found. The team also looked at how the patterns were affected by other variables, including sea-surface temperature, wind speed and light availability. The other variables, though, showed no significant associations. We knew that chlorophyll is unevenly distributed across global ocean, but we didnt expect the disparity of the chlorophyll distribution, said Haipeng Zhao, a postdoctoral researcher and lead author of the paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the study, subtropical regions of the northern hemisphere are experiencing a decrease in chlorophyll, meaning the water is getting bluer. This is especially true for areas in latitudes 20N to 40N. Virginia Beach lies at about 36N. While bluer waters are typically considered healthier, not enough phytoplankton can also cause problems. The small creatures are an important species at the bottom of the food chain, supporting many fish species, so not having enough can limit food sources for bigger fish, Zhao said. This mainly affects low- and middle-income countries, where locals rely on fisheries for their economy and food sources. The findings cannot be solely attributed to climate change, the authors said. The study period was too short to rule out the influence of other climate patterns, like La Nina and El Nino. Zhao said the study mainly focused on measuring the color of surface waters, but the results could open the door for more research about how deeper ocean waters are affected. Currently, the effects of the ocean changing colors are not known, so in the future, the team could tackle how it could affect fish and other marine species. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we talk about color, we just go to the beach and we see, Okay, the the ocean is blue or green,' Zhao said. But actually, if we want to answer where the fish are going, or where are all the phytoplankton blooms going, theyre seen in the deep layers, not only on the surface. Eliza Noe, eliza.noe@virginiamedia.com July 23 (UPI) -- An octogenarian who spent some four decades on Florida's death row has died, according to court records, making him at least the seventh death row inmate to die while waiting for their sentence to be carried out this year. Robert Peede, 81, died Monday, according to Florida Department of Corrections records. No cause of death was mentioned. The Florida Department of Corrections told UPI in an emailed statement that the cause of death is to be determined by the district medical examiner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peede was sentenced to death on March 4, 1984, for killing his estranged wife, Darla Peede, on March 31, 1983, near Orlando, Fla. According to court records, Peede had orchestrated a plan to and use Darla to lure his former wife, Geraldine, and her boyfriend, Calvin Wagner, to a motel in North Carolina where he intended to kill them all. The court documents state he flew from North Carolina to Miami, where Darla picked him up at the airport. During the drive, Peede mentioned his belief that Darla and Geraldine had placed an ad seeking sexual partners in Swingers magazine. He then stopped the car outside Orlando, jumped into the back seat and stabbed Darla in the neck, causing her to bleed to death within five to 15 minutes. He then drove back to North Carolina, discarded Darla's body in a wooded area, and intended to continue with his plan to kill Geraldine and Wagner but was arrested beforehand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a written statement, included in court documents, Peede confessed to killing Darla and asked for the death penalty and for it "to be carried out as soon as possible." Peede is at least the seventh death row inmate to die while waiting to be killed by the state this year, which has seen a surge in executions in the United States. Christopher Sepulvado, 81, died in late February, just weeks before he was to be put to death. He was Louisiana's first person scheduled to be killed by the state in 15 years. Other death row inmates to die this year include 43-year-old Latavious Johnson on June 6 in Arkansas, and Scott Panetti in late May in Texas. There have been 26 executions so far this year. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has warned Kyiv that undermining anti-corruption agencies will negatively affect defence investments in Ukraine and the financing of its reconstruction. The OECD has also explained what steps Kyiv must take to resolve the crisis. Source: a letter addressed to Iryna Mudra, Deputy Head of the Presidents Office, as reported by European Pravda Details: In the letter dated 22 July, Julia Fromholz, Head of the OECD Anti-Corruption Division, expressed deep concern about recent developments related to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO), namely the adoption of draft law No. 12414. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She stated that this law (which was enacted shortly after Kyiv received the letter, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed it on the evening of 22 July) significantly undermines the independence of Ukraines specialised anti-corruption agencies. Fromholz also said that these legislative changes could be perceived by the OECD working group as a weakening of Ukraines compliance with its commitments. Fromholz wrote that the law threatens Ukraines aspiration to join the OECD in the future. She therefore called on Ukraine and Zelenskyy to veto the bill. "In case this letter reaches you after the draft is signed into law, we call for further legislative amendments to preserve the independence of specialised anti-corruption bodies. I respectfully urge that this issue is treated with the utmost seriousness," the letter reads. Fromholz also warned of consequences for Ukraine if Kyiv fails to take action to address the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "If [the issue] left unresolved it would not only risk undermining Ukraines OECD Anti-Bribery Convention accession prospects and its efforts to join the OECD, but also damage its credibility among international partners, particularly those considering investment in Ukraines defence sector and long-term reconstruction." The letter Screenshot Background: Even before the vote in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament), the European Commission expressed concern about the situation surrounding NABU and SAPO. The Commission stated that these bodies are essential for Ukraines reform agenda and must operate independently in order to fight corruption and maintain public trust. The adoption of the law caused concern for EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos. Taras Kachka, Ukraines newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, assured Kos that the Ukrainian authorities remain committed to their anti-corruption obligations. After signing law No. 12414, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the anti-corruption agencies would continue to function, but without Russian influence. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) warned Ukraine on July 22 that its law targeting the independence of anti-corruption agencies could deter defense and reconstruction investment, European Pravda reported, citing a letter it had obtained. The international organization's anti-corruption chief, Julia Fromholz, reportedly voiced concerns about the law in a letter sent to Presidential Office Deputy Head Iryna Mudra before the legislation was passed. The bill, swiftly approved by the parliament on July 22 and signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky the same day, grants the prosecutor general vast authority over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watchdogs and opposition lawmakers have blasted the legislation as the authorities' attempt to dismantle Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure. The OECD official reportedly warned that the bill threatens the independence of the anti-corruption agencies and could undermine Kyiv's credibility among foreign partners. This could negatively impact defense investment and reconstruction financing. Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Foreign investment has been crucial for both Ukraine's recovery and defense needs as the country's economy faces mounting pressure wrought by the Russian invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Fromholz, the legislation might also hinder Ukraine's efforts to join the OECD and its anti-bribery convention. The OECD is a Paris-based group of 38 developed and emerging economies in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and elsewhere around the world that promotes economic growth and market economy. Ukraine seeks to join the organization by 2026 as part of a four-year country program launched in June 2023. In a May review, the OECD praised Ukraine's progress in tackling corruption and strengthening business integrity amid Russia's all-out invasion. "Even amid Russia's ongoing war of aggression, Ukraine has made significant progress in the fight against corruption, recognising that a robust integrity framework is essential for business confidence, public trust and the post-war recovery," OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv's other international partners have voiced concerns about the new controversial law. On July 22, the EU Commission said that NABU and SAPO "are crucial to Ukraine's reform agenda and must operate independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust." "Ukraines anti-corruption institutions are vital to its reform path. Restricting them would be a significant setback," Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said on X on July 23. "Safeguarding the independence of these institutions and continued progress on the rule of law remain key for Ukraines EU accession process." Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Agents with the SC Department of Natural Resources arrested a man who has allegedly left a decommissioned military vessel he owns abandoned in Bohicket Creek for several years. Samuel Kodaimati is the first person arrested under the states newly enacted abandoned boat law (Section 50-21-220(A)), which went into effect after being signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster on May 8. Kodaimati now faces two charges that carry potential fines and fees totaling $43,400 $21,700 for each charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said Kodaimati is responsible for a 120-foot former U.S. Navy decommissioned torpedo vessel that has sat grounded in the marsh next to a private dock near Johns Island for years. The vessel was deemed inoperable in 2021 after it was issued a Captain of the Port Order for improper documentation, according to SCDNR. Coast Guard crews responded to the vessel towards the end of 2024 after it was declared an environmental hazard. Authorities removed about 3,500 gallons of hazardous oil and oily water from onboard. This arrest underscores our commitment to protecting South Carolinas natural resources and holding accountable those who jeopardize them, said Dr. Tom Mullikin, Director of SCDNR. Abandoning vessels in sensitive waterways not only violates the law but also puts our ecosystems, wildlife, and communities at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation is ongoing. Abandoned, derelict, and sunken vessels have long been a problem in local waterways, often posing environmental and safety hazards. South Carolina congressional staff tour abandoned boats near Charleston Harbor These vessels, which typically contain oil, lead-based paint, fuel, and other hazardous chemicals, leak into the surrounding waters, harming the surrounding ecosystems and posing a safety risk to boaters passing by. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. State officials broke ground on the maternal and infant health innovation center in Trenton on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Jake Hirsch/Governors Office) New Jersey leaders broke ground Tuesday on the states first maternal and infant health center, a $86.7 million project that state officials say will serve as the epicenter for advancing equitable maternal and infant health care. Gov. Phil Murphys office said the facility, set to open in early 2027, will make childbirth safer and eliminate racial disparities in care for mothers and babies across the state. The center will operate under the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority, a state agency created by 2023 legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This center will save lives, raise standards and show whats possible when equity leads, said first lady Tammy Murphy. Shaped by the voices of families and rooted right here in Trenton, this center will deliver care and collaboration like never before. Maternal health has been a focus of the first lady during her time in Trenton. Her Nurture NJ initiative aims to reverse inequities in care for pregnant women and new mothers. Pregnancy-related mortality rates for Black women are more than three times higher than the rate for white women, according to nonprofit health research group KFF. Lisa Asare, the maternal and infant health authoritys president and CEO, said the center represents a beacon of hope and change for mothers and babies statewide and across the nation. This center stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we come together and work as one, Asare said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rutgers Universitys nursing school will oversee training and research along with Mercer County Community College, Stockton University, The College of New Jersey, and Thomas Edison State University. Princeton University will support future research efforts. In addition, Capital Health will deliver family, OB/GYN, and pediatric services, plus mental and behavioral health care and doula and lactation consultation support. The community is not only involved and represented at the maternal and infant health authority, but they will be involved in this center, Tammy Murphy told the New Jersey Monitor. Funding for the center comes largely from federal aid. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX For the past few years, the city of Fresno, California, has been planning to open a new Costco location. The new location was going to feature a 219,000-square-foot building that also included a car wash and gas station right off the freeway in North Fresno. However, those operations are now being put on hold. A judge ruled against the opening for now after a lawsuit from the Herndon Riverside Coalition for Responsible Community Planning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit stated that the plans violated municipal zoning laws. After the verdict, Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer and Fresno City Councilmember Mike Karbassi both expressed frustration at the situation, per Rhett Rodriguez of yourcentralvalley.com. Im very concerned Costco may not want to stay in Fresno. Thats why I want to make it clear we are not just going to roll over. We are going to push back, Karbassi said. Mayor Jerry Dyer also weighed in on the decision and stated they are still working to get this done. Were disappointed in that decision and now were regrouping as a city and deciding what our legal options are, Dyer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karbassi also mentioned that they remain "fully committed" to getting the store open, per David Toub of GV Wire. I am fully committed to there being a Costco that stays in Fresno. Im going to do everything I can to make sure this site could be that site, Karbassi said. I am committed to keeping Costco and the construction jobs here at Fresno. Currently, it remains to be seen what the city officials will do, but appealing is an option. Related: Costco Reportedly Working on Exciting Benefit for California Customers Officials in California City Frustrated After Costco Plans Blocked by Court Ruling first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 Dams, while controversial for the way they deprive marine life of nutrients and destroy habitats, also help communities by preventing floods, providing renewable energy, and supplying farms with usable water. To the benefit of farmers in India, the Mettur Dam reached its full reservoir level of 120 feet, according to the Hawk. Due to the large amount of stored water, officials are increasing the water release from the Mettur Dam reservoir from 26,000 to 58,000 cubic feet per second, thanks to steady rainfall throughout June. Built in 1934, the Mettur Dam is the primary source of irrigation along the Cauvery Delta in Tamil Nadu, India. Farmers along the delta, as well as communities that depend on water, will benefit from this circumstance, though civilians living on low-lying land are being encouraged to prepare for some light flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per a report on Science Direct, dam irrigation is "essential" for human development and climate mitigation. It benefits both the environment and communities of people by providing crops with stored water to support pollinators and our food supply, especially in times of extreme drought. It is worth noting that while the increase in stored water will help with agriculture, dams in general isolate species and cut off nutrients that are meant to be shared between ecosystems, depleting biodiversity in the waters they fragment, according to International Rivers. These circumstances, both positive and negative, go to show that even what is good for the planet can also have its pitfalls. Still, this happy change for a major water source in India is worth celebrating, as food is a necessity of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the positive news for farmers around Tamil Nadu, one farmer, S. Marimuthu, said, "This is a huge relief for us. The water will help us take up Kuruvai cultivation with confidence," per the Hawk. 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. Despite the increase in transitional and affordable housing, Bakersfield officials said the influx of newly homeless people continues to be a problem. I would say we are very troubled by inflow, the fact that we still are seeing new homeless, City Manager Christian Clegg said Tuesday during a meeting of the City Councils homelessness committee. If we were able to shelter more individuals and transition more individuals from shelters into permanent supportive housing, and yet our number remains as high as it is, we still have work to do, Clegg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend, the city celebrated moving its 500th and 501st residents from the Brundage Lane Navigation Center into permanent housing, and the city recently celebrated the opening of two affordable housing complexes, Renaissance at Baker and Elevate Apartments. This years annual Point-in-Time Count of the local homeless population showed the number of people captured in the survey declined by only 2.3% from the previous year. Following years of rising homeless numbers, the slight decline was seen by local leaders as evidence of at least some progress. During a discussion of the 2025 PIT count Tuesday, members of the committee acknowledged that many of the same issues continue to frustrate efforts to reduce the number of homeless people in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the high number of people becoming homeless, officials have also expressed frustration with homeless people who refuse services when offered. Many of our chronically homeless also are individuals who have challenges with substance abuse, mental health, who have been contacted by our providers many times to encourage them to return to service, Clegg said. Recent changes to state law, including Proposition 36, Care Courts and 2023s Senate Bill 43, which made changes to conservatorship laws, have given officials additional tools to compel people into treatment, but large numbers of homeless people continue to refuse service. Some of those chronically homeless that, they may not be making good decisions on their own behalf, Clegg said. Those tools being available to us to really help divert them into treatment and care, you know, less voluntarily, because they need to get that care. Thats one of the next steps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the committees monthly homelessness report, 55% of people refused services when contacted by outreach teams in June, and in 2024, the monthly average was 48%. But officials also noted shelters were regularly at capacity and that dozens of people were being turned away weekly from BLNC. While this years PIT count found only a modest decrease in the total number of homeless people, the number of sheltered people increased by 17% and the number of unsheltered decreased by 10%. The city and the county have been able to successfully flatten the curve while youre seeing other continuums across the country, their numbers increase, said Christopher Vargas, executive director of the Bakersfield Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That speaks to the level of investments that are being made by the city and the county, and the collaborative has been able to bolster those investments, he said. Preliminary results of the PIT count were released last month but on Tuesday the committee was given a more in-depth breakdown of this years data. The 2025 count recorded 2,606 total homeless people, with 53% of them, or 1,393 people, unsheltered, while 47%, or 1,213, had access to shelter. The vast majority of adults with children, 97%, were sheltered, as were the majority of children, 98%, according to the report. There were 386 people experiencing homelessness for the first time, the report said, but of respondents who gave a length of time for their current state of homelessness, the vast majority, 621 people, said more than a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The survey was able to collect 823 responses from unsheltered people on their perceived causes of homelessness. The top causes identified were health, mental health, and substance use disorder related reasons (200), household or family issues (138), employment related causes such as lack of wages, job loss, or lack of jobs (150), and mortgage or rent related issues (46). Other potential causes of homelessness include incarceration or personal choice, the report said. A full version of the report is available at the BKRHC website, bkrhc.org. Turkey has passed a law to establish a national Emissions Trading System. While the legislation will further empower the Climate Change Directorate to enforce environmental regulations, climate advocates hoped for a more robust plan, as reported by the Middle East Eye. What's happening? Back in 2016, Turkey signed the Paris Agreement, a legally binding agreement to limit the rise of global temperatures to 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit above preindustrial levels. Five years later, it ratified its commitment, also signing a deal to receive $3.2 billion from Germany and France to domestically transition to non-polluting, renewable energy, according to the report. Now, Turkey's new law will place a cap on carbon pollution in some sectors and mandate the participation of certain businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With this law, the most critical threshold of our 2053 Net Zero Emission and Green Development targets, we will provide a freer research and development environment without being influenced by any country in developing new technologies," climate change minister Murat Kurum said, per the Middle East Eye. The passage of the legislation comes as a tax on carbon-intensive products entering the European Union is set to begin next year, including aluminium, cement, electricity, fertilizers, hydrogen, iron, and steel, which make up roughly 10.5% of Turkey's exports to the EU. Why is this important? A warming climate is contributing to an increase in prolonged droughts, heat waves, and wildfires in Turkey and other Mediterranean countries, with one study in Nature noting the Mediterranean region has long been considered a "climate change hotspot." The passage of the bill, which would support efforts to reduce harmful pollution, came as wildfires blazed in the southern provinces of Izmir and Hatay, displacing at least 50,000 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While climate advocates celebrated the legislation as a move in the right direction, they also felt it didn't go far enough to create more meaningful change. Environmental law charity ClientEarth pointed out the bill failed to outline a plan to phase out dirty fuels, which account for the majority of the heat-trapping pollution entering the atmosphere, per the Middle East Eye. ClientEarth also noted that the legislation lacks clear goals to reduce pollution in the medium term, doesn't empower civil society to engage in climate decision-making, and hasn't established an independent advisory body to oversee progress. What's being done about this? ClientEarth lawyer Gizem Koc told the Middle East Eye that the law was "far from ideal but still significant" because it "sends a message to other segments of the government and also the courts that climate change is a very important issue for the government." Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. "Ministries may no longer tell us that Turkey's commitments under the Paris Agreements are not binding," Koc explained. Yet challenges remain, with climate denial becoming increasingly common among politicians and media personalities in the country, per the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parliament is also set to allow mining projects to proceed that would damage some of Turkey's olive groves, forests, and pastures, and ClientEarth warned this would "seriously undermine" the benefits of the new climate law. However, the silver lining is that the "far from ideal" legislation could be a launching point to challenge some of these projects. 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. ANKARA, Turkey (AP) Syrias interim government has requested Turkeys support to strengthen its defense capabilities, Turkish officials said Wednesday, following sectarian violence over the past two weeks that increased tensions in Syria and drew Israeli intervention. Syria has also sought assistance to combat terrorist organizations, including the Islamic State group, said the defense officials, who spoke only on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the issue publicly. Turkey, which has long expressed readiness to assist Syria, was working toward providing training, advisory services and technical support to help strengthen Syrias defense capacity, the officials added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syrian officials could not be immediately reached for comment. As long as our brotherly country, Syria, requests it, Turkey will continue to stand firmly by its side, Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans ruling party, told reporters when asked to comment on the Syrian request. The heroic Turkish armed forces will fulfill this both to assist our Syrian brothers and to prevent instability there, which is vital for Turkeys national security, he said. Tensions escalated in southern Syria last week when violent clashes erupted between Bedouin Arab tribes and minority Druze militias in Sweida province. The conflict triggered Israeli airstrikes on convoys of government forces in Sweida and on the Ministry of Defense headquarters in central Damascus, which Israel justified to protect Druze communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, announced a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Syria on July 19, which allowed the Syrian government forces to go into Sweida and break up the fighting between the Druze and Bedouins. An earlier ceasefire between Druze factions and government forces broke down. After a second ceasefire, the government forces withdrew from Sweida, but fighting flared again between Druze and Bedouin groups. Ankara strongly supports Syrias interim government led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa and has been seeking a defense agreement with Damascus that could reportedly include establishing Turkish military bases on Syrian territory. Turkey backs the integration of Kurds in the Syrian army In an interview with The Associated Press earlier this week, Barrack said the U.S. has no position on the prospect of a defense pact between Syria and Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's not in the U.S. business or interest to tell any of the surrounding nations with each other what to do, he said. Ankara also backs an agreement reached between the interim Syrian administration and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, to integrate into Syrias national army. Implementation of the deal has stalled, with a major sticking point being whether the SDF would remain as a cohesive unit in the new army or be dissolved completely. On Tuesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned Kurdish and other groups in Syria against exploiting the tensions to pursue autonomy, stating that any attempt to divide Syria would be viewed as a direct threat to Turkeys national security and could prompt intervention. Turkey considers the SDF as a terrorist organization because of its association with the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which has waged a long-running insurgency in Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Turkish officials said Turkey expects the SDF to follow through on its commitments under the agreement, adding that Turkey would be following the situation. The situation in Syria has increased tensions between Turkey and Israel. In April, Israel struck five cities in Syria, including more than a dozen strikes near a strategic air base in the city of Hama, where Turkey reportedly has interests in having a military presence. Israel accused Turkey of trying to build a protectorate in Syria. A respiratory therapist checks on patients. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) The Ohio Hospital Association was quick to praise the states Republican U.S. senators for a provision in President Donald Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act. But it wont say whether overall, the legislation will save or cost its member hospitals money. Meanwhile, outside experts say rural and urban hospitals will lose billions. Signed on July 4, the law gives an estimated $1 trillion in tax cuts to the richest 1% of Americans over 10 years and adds $3.4 trillion to the deficit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those deficits would be even higher if the new law didnt slash more than $1 trillion from Medicaid. Between that and cuts to people using the Affordable Care Acts insurance exchanges, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that 10 million more Americans will be uninsured by 2034 because of the law passed by congressional Republicans and signed by Trump. In Ohio, 440,000 stand to lose insurance. The Ohio Hospital Association in May told the legislature that half of Ohio hospitals and 72% of rural hospitals have reported operating losses since 2022. Emergency departments in all U.S. hospitals have to treat people regardless of their ability to pay. Ohios emergency doctors warn that having to treat a big new wave of uninsured patients will increase wait times and force hospitals to cut staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Ohios hospitals and their industry group declined to fight the legislation or condemn the states representatives in Washington, D.C. who supported it. Instead, four rural hospital chains praised Republican U.S. Sens. Jon Husted and Bernie Moreno for their vote. Your leadership and advocacy made a clear difference in steering vital funding toward the facilities that are the backbone of healthcare in our part of the state, top executives with Memorial Health, Genesis Healthcare, Adena Health, and Southern Ohio Medical Center said in a letter. Thanks to your efforts, our hospitals will be able to continue providing high-quality care close to home, keep essential services running, and sustain thousands of local jobsfor years to come. They were praising Moreno and Husted because they supported a measure that provides $50 billion mostly for rural hospitals over the next five years. The federal government still has to determine how a big portion of that money will be doled out. And health-policy experts at KFF say that a good portion of that money could end up at urban and suburban facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Ohio senators and the hospital chains praising them said that the provision would give Ohios rural hospitals $1.3 billion over five years. The Ohio Hospital Association joined in the praise. The Ohio Hospital Association is extremely grateful for the provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that establish new financial resources for rural hospitals and extends Ohios Medicaid supplemental payment program through 2028, spokesman John Palmer said in an email. We are grateful for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with our congressional delegation and look forward to continued collaboration on future health care policies. Even if Ohios rural hospitals are getting the full $1.3 billion the senators say, at least two prominent groups say Ohio hospitals still will lose billions under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a fact sheet, the American Hospital Association said that over 10 years, Ohios rural hospitals will lose $2.5 billion in Medicaid funding. Thats nearly double the amount Husted and Moreno said they were able to add back in, and most of those cuts wont hit until after the supplement Husted and Moreno supported dries up, KFF said. Potentially adding to hospital woes is that the bill supported by the Ohio senators will cost 18,000 rural Ohioans their health insurance, according to the American Hospital Association. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Because Ohio has a relatively large rural population with a high preponderance of Medicaid patients, it will be particularly hard hit by the Trump Medicaid cuts, KFF said in a July 2 analysis. It said Ohio would lose $6.45 billion in rural Medicaid spending over 10 years the sixth most of any state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That amount dwarfs the $1.3 billion Husted and Moreno say they won for rural hospitals. But Matthew Perry, president and CEO of Genesis Healthcare System in Zaneville, said that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act allows Ohio to leverage more federal dollars through a provider tax. it also included a $50B five year fund to directly support rural hospitals, of which Ohio rural hospitals will receive our fair share, he said in an email. It is true that the (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) does include reductions in the total amount of provider taxes that states can use to receive federal matching Medicaid funds beginning in 2028, but this goes down gradually over time and bottoms out even a little higher than where Ohio hospitals are today. So, no, over ten years, Senators Moreno and Husted actually enabled rural Ohio hospitals to receive significantly higher Medicaid funding than we are receiving today. Leaders of Memorial Health, Adena Health, and Southern Ohio Medical Center the other systems that praised Husted and Moreno didnt respond to questions for this story. Last week, KFF released an analysis of the $50 billion rural health supplement that made it difficult to see how Ohios rural hospitals could be coming out ahead in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. For one thing, it takes away twice as much as it adds, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rural health fund includes $50 billion, which is about one-third of the estimated loss of federal Medicaid funding in rural areas, it said. The analysis added that theres a lot of uncertainty around how the money will be doled out. Half will be distributed under an approach still to be determined by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. And crucially, the $50 billion supplement for rural hospitals is temporary, while the cuts to Medicaid are permanent, the analysis said. And that doesnt even consider estimates from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office that the Trump law will increase the number of uninsured Americans by 10 million by 2034. Those people wont stop getting sick and injured, and when theyre ill enough, many will go to an emergency room that has to care for them even if they cant pay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of those costs will be in addition to the loss of Medicaid funds, the KFF analysis said. This does not account for other revenue losses related to the bill, including cuts to federal spending for the (Affordable Care Act) Marketplaces, or the revenue losses stemming from the increased number of people who will be uninsured because of the expiration of the enhanced ACA premium tax credits and the implementation of final Marketplace integrity rules, it said. The impact of these changes on rural areas, and the extent to which the rural health fund offsets losses, will vary across the country. So were the rural health systems and the Ohio Hospital Association praising Husted in Moreno as the senators took billions away from them? For its part, the hospital association wouldnt say if it disputed the estimates of KFF and the American Hospital Association. It wouldnt even say if its members will gain or lose under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Ohio Hospital Association is extremely grateful for the provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that establishes new financial resources for rural hospitals and extends Ohios Medicaid supplemental payment program through 2028, said Palmer, its spokesman. We are grateful for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues with our congressional delegation and look forward to continued collaboration on future health care policies. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX School boards across Oklahoma are implementing new policies to limit student cell phone use, following the passage of a new state law. The law requires public school districts to restrict student cell phone use during the school day from bell to bell for the 2025-26 school year. After that, district officials will have the flexibility to adjust their cell phone policies as they see fit. Under the law, every one of the more than 500-plus school districts must craft a policy that limits the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices by students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policies must make exceptions for students who need their phones to manage a medical condition and allow phone use in emergencies. Districts also must clearly outline disciplinary actions for students who violate a school's phone-free policy. How did the school cell phone ban come about? State Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, and Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, worked for two years toward the passage of a law restricting cell phone use at schools. Limits on phone use were being adopted by a growing number of districts, and others were clamoring for statewide action. Seifried and Caldwell each led interim studies in 2024 to examine the issue, bringing in subject-matter experts including professors, authors, superintendents and teachers. Both legislators submitted bills on the subject for consideration during the 2025 session. Each of the bills had slight differences. Caldwells House bill included an opt-out provision for district school boards, although such a policy would have to be approved every year by the board. Seifrieds Senate bill requires districts to develop their own policies to limit student cell phone use for the full school day for the entire 2025-26 school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, Seifrieds bill, Senate Bill 130, emerged as the preferred one. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed it into law in May and it took effect July 1. Sen. Ally Seifried says she's excited to see the results of a statewide cellphone ban in Oklahoma schools that's being implemented for the 2025-26 academic year. Why did lawmakers vote to limit students' phone use at school? State Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, told The Oklahoman on Monday, July 21, the law was designed to reduce distractions in classrooms so that students can better learn what theyre being taught by educators. Senate Bill 139 was designed to provide flexibility for districts to craft policies that school boards believe best meet the needs of their individual schools. They knew it was coming, and so its not a surprise, Seifried said. I think that gave them time to prepare. They really appreciate the flexibility in Senate Bill 139. There is a lot of flexibility in how to implement it, and I think they like that. Its been really positive. How are Oklahoma schools implementing the ban? Many of the larger districts in the Oklahoma City area including Oklahoma City Public Schools, Norman Public Schools and Edmond Public Schools are hewing closely to definitions found in the bill. According to the new law, bell to bell means the time between the first bell ringing at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell at the end of the school day to end instructional time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During that time, those districts will not allow student use of cell phones except for designated exceptions. Parents will be encouraged to contact school administrative offices or to reach their child via email, which can be accessed on district-issued electronic devices such as Chromebooks. Boards governing the Norman and Edmond districts each quizzed their district staff members about their policies and how theyd be implemented for more than a half-hour apiece before granting approval. Oklahoma City Public Schools board members also held a lengthy discussion before voting 5-1 to approve a policy during their June 30 meeting. The lone vote in opposition came from Mike Shelton, a former state representative, who took umbrage at the Legislatures mandate. I dont disagree that we should pass a policy, but Im not for the Legislature dictating whats going on at the Oklahoma City Public Schools, Shelton said. Board Chair Paula Lewis voted for the policy but echoed Sheltons sentiment, saying she could respect not liking the Legislature telling us what to do. Students eat lunch at Lomega Public Schools in this March file photo. Do schools allow cell phones during lunch on campus? While many schools won't allow students to use their phones during the entire school day, Moore Public Schools is an example of a district taking a different tack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Moore, students attending one of the districts elementary or six junior-high schools for seventh and eighth grades may not use cell phones or personal electronic devices during lunch nor recess, the policy states. But high school students may use cell phones and personal electronic devices during the students designated lunch period. Generally, the expectation is that student cell phones and personal electronic devices will not be a distraction and must remain on silent or turned off and be put away and not used from bell to bell, the Moore policy reads. Seifried wasnt familiar with Moores policy, but said the spirit of the law was really to give kids six to seven hours of undistracted time. She said she thinks its OK for students who might leave a campus during a lunch period to have use of their phones while off campus, but that the spirit of the law really is six to seven hours. It does not include lunch, as long as lunch is on the campus. How does the cell phone ban apply to virtual schools? The law doesnt apply for virtual schools, such as Epic Charter Schools or Insight School of Oklahoma, as they have no physical campuses. Even so, Epics board did update its policy on cell phone use last week. Deer Creek High School students attend an English class taught by Gena Beeson in this March file photo. How long will the cell phone ban be in place? Senate Bill 139 was designed to be in effect for only one school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While a ban is mandatory for the 2025-26 school year, according to the law, (f)or the 2026-2027 school year and each school year thereafter, each school district board of education may adopt a policy prohibiting students from using cell phones and personal electronic devices while on the campus of a public school district from bell to bell. Seifried said shes hopeful the cell phone ban will improve student outcomes so much that school districts will voluntarily adopt such policies moving forward. I really have, quite frankly, no idea, she said. I really am excited to see kind of what the next two months, August and September, look like in our schools and each classroom. I think well be able to see the benefits socially in two or three weeks and then well be able to see academic scores following that. I think itll take a little bit of time for kids to adjust, for teachers to adjust, but then the benefits will be seen very quickly. My hope is that once something is in place and people like it, its just in place kind of indefinitely. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma cell phone ban: What to know before school starts POTEAU, Okla. (KNWA/KFTA) An Oklahoma man has been sentenced to life in prison for his role in the 2022 torture and killing of a Fort Smith mother, according to court documents. Alex Davis, 34, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, kidnapping and obstructing an officer on July 22, Oklahoma court records show. Davis was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Alex Davis, 34 (Courtesy: Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation) The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) said it was assisting the LeFlore County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) with an investigation after a missing womans body was found in a pond near the community of Rock Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 19, 2021, the Fort Smith Police Department reported Tara Strozier, 40, a mother of three, missing. FSPD said Strozier was last seen driving a black Volkswagen Jetta with Florida license plates. Her last known location was in Cameron. Five days later, Stroziers vehicle was found abandoned in a private drive in Cameron. LCSO suspected foul play after the car was located without any sign of Strozier. Former Van Buren police officer accused of internet stalking of child has first court appearance The joint investigation between LCSO and OSBI revealed that Strozier was tortured at a vacant mobile home off Neblett Ridge Road in Cameron before she was murdered by a Rock Island pond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis, Austin Johnson, 27, and one other person were arrested in connection with the disappearance and death of Strozier. After Strozier was killed, her body was weighed down and thrown into a pond. Her body was found on July 29, 2021. Johnson was charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping and obstructing an officer. His trial is set to begin Jan. 26, 2026. The third person arrested in connection with the murder is no longer facing charges, according to court records. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. Students walk down the hall at Burroughs Elementary in Tulsa Public Schools on April 8, 2024. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Student proficiency scores are likely to drop when reading and math test scores are released Friday, officials said. It doesnt actually mean students got less smart this year compared to last year, said Megan Oftedal, executive director of Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability. Its really just that the standard for the cut scores last year, the bar was lower. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Educators and parents will have more transparent information about where students stand with proficiency, and it can spark conversations about what students need to be ready for college or a career, Oftedal said. The goal is to provide a more accurate comparison of how Oklahoma public school students are performing versus their national peers, she said. Oklahomas Commission for Educational Quality and Accountability in May returned the academic expectations for student scores to 2023 levels, a year after the state quietly lowered the bar that public school students must achieve to be considered proficient. The proficiency expectations, or cut scores, set the standard of what knowledge students should be able to demonstrate on annual state tests to be considered proficient. Oftedals agency advised that this years results should not be directly compared to last years as the 2024 expectations were an outlier developed using a process that did not incorporate national comparisons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preliminary Oklahoma School Testing Program scores for grade school students will be available to educators Friday and to parents Aug. 1. School report cards could also be impacted, Oftedal said, and its likely a decline in school scores will be reflected there as well. Quinton Hitchcock, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, declined to answer questions about potential declines in scores or how it could affect school accreditation as the scores have yet to be released. The now defunct expectations created a divergence between the states expectations and national testing standards, which is called an honesty gap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma worked to close the gap beginning in 2017 by aligning with national standards, but the gap widened again in 2024 when new benchmarks were approved. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE ST. LOUIS An arrest warrant has been issued for an Oklahoma woman who traveled with her husband to St. Louis earlier this month in an ongoing animal abuse investigation. An employee at St. Louis Cremation in Downtown West contacted police on Friday, July 11, to report a man had arrived looking to cremate four dead dogs. The employee told police its not uncommon for pet owners to bring their deceased canines in for cremation, but it was peculiar seeing someone arrive with four animals at once. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police were informed the box truck contained several other dogs, many of whom looked distressed and in poor condition. According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Departments probable cause statement, officers spoke with the truck driver, identified as Robert Peters of Noble, Oklahoma. Peters told police that he and his wife, Jessica Peters, owned an animal transportation business out of their home. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Robert told police they would transport dogs from California to various states in the Midwest to the East Coast. When he discovered four of the dogs had died on the trip, he stopped at the crematorium to dispose of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers asked Robert Peters if they could check the box truck, and he agreed. Police said they found 14 dogs in the truck, stacked atop one another in cages. The truck floor was covered in a sawdust-like powder. Many of the dogs were covered in their own feces and urine, police said. The animals also appeared lethargic due to the high temperature in the back of the box truck. Police contacted St. Louis Animal Control to take possession of the dogs. Robert Peters was arrested at the scene. Police later learned that Jessica Peters, 31, had followed her husband in her own car, and that she knew of the danger the animals were in while riding in the back of the box truck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jessica was not taken into custody and remains at large. The St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office charged Jessica Peters with 11 counts of felony animal abuse and seven counts of misdemeanor animal abuse. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Olympia City Council voted 4-3 Tuesday night against adopting a Workers Bill of Rights and raising the minimum wage across the city to $20. Mayor Dontae Payne cast the deciding vote. Instead, the council unanimously voted to place the proposal on the November ballot for city residents to decide. The decision came after several community members testified both for and against the proposal. The council will discuss and take action on for and against committees for the ballot initiative during its Aug. 4 meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initiative states workers deserve fair and secure scheduling, with advance notice of their work schedules. They also want the opportunity to move into full-time work when available, and to be paid fairly for their work. The initiative also outlines workers right to a safe workplace. If voters approved the initiative, the minimum wage in Olympia would increase on Jan. 1. A phase-in period is included for small and medium-sized businesses to adapt to paying higher wages. Comments from the public Emily Clouse, one of five Thurston County commissioners, spoke in favor of the initiative, but not on the behalf of the commission as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clouse said she grew up in her parents coffee stand and car wash business, and she respects how hard small businesses work to make payroll and build community. She said she knows from her work at the county and as a service provider in Olympia that the people keeping those businesses running are the same people on housing waitlists, in line at the food bank and trying to piece together child care. When pay hours and scheduling are unstable, everything in a familys life becomes unstable: housing, health, school and safety, Clouse said. That instability hits hardest for young workers, caregivers, queer and trans workers, immigrants, disabled folks and people coming home from incarceration exactly the neighbors we say we want to keep rooted here in our community. Clouse urged the council to pass the initiative as written and said setting a fair baseline helps good employers who are already doing right by their staffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alice Rosewater said shes a local library worker and member of the executive board for the Thurston Lewis Mason Central Labor Council. She supported passing the initiative and said ballot initiatives are rare in the City of Olympia. Rosewater said the number of signatures needed to put an initiative on the ballot is unreasonably high, and much higher per capita than whats required in other cities in Washington. Over 5,700 signatures after ballot collection have to be verified, representing nearly 10% of the entire population, Rosewater said. But in spite of this massive hurdle, Olympians have made their voices clear. We demand a higher minimum wage. We demand basic workplace protections in our city. Rosewater questioned whether it was democratic to send the initiative to a vote of the people when it gives business lobbyists the chance to pour money into campaigns to sway public opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tammie Hetrick, the president and CEO of the Washington Food Industry Association, opposed the council adopting the initiative Tuesday night. She asked that it be moved to a public vote for further consideration and for the public to learn more about its implications. Hetrick said shes concerned there will be unintended impact on the cost of food for grocers and convenience stores that average a 1% profit margin. They would not have a choice but to increase food costs to comply with this mandate, she said. Mindy Roberts is a staff member at the Union Gospel Mission. She said the morning of July 22, more than 80 people woke up on the floor of the mission. Before the end of the morning, the mission had served more than 300 meals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts said most of their employees make at least $17 per hour and are provided meals. She said they have subsidized housing and try to do everything they can to make sure employees are cared for. She said if the initiative passes, the mission cant afford to pay its workers. We wont be able to keep the shelter open, potentially, or were going to have to stop serving those meals, or were going to have to talk to the children that are being served and let them know that the kids club isnt going to be able to be open in September, Roberts said. Marisa Wulff, co-owner of Mud Bay Pet Store chain, asked the council to forward the initiative to a vote of the people. She said the city needs to find the right balance between great jobs for people and the survival of Olympias local businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our company is owned by our family and were passionate about being a good employer, Wulff said. We provide schedules three weeks in advance. We provide medical, dental and vision insurance for our full-time employees, a generous staff discount, paid time off and a 401K match. We provide security buttons for employees when they work alone. Wulff said during the last few years, the complexities of being in business have increased dramatically because of increased costs. We have had to make cutbacks, including reducing store staffing levels by more than 20%, she said. We have 140 fewer employees than we did three years ago with the same number of stores; our employees used to be almost all full time. Weve had to shorten shift links and hire part time. Many of our stores now open and close with only one person. Wulff said her company is struggling to compete with online goliaths such as Chewy and Amazon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chewy is shipping products into our communities, but they are not providing jobs for our residents, and we are, she said. Comments from the council The proposal to adopt the initiative without sending it to a vote of residents was supported by council members Clark Gilman, Jim Cooper and Robert Vanderpool. Gilman said the measure came before the council with more than enough signatures to qualify it for the ballot. He said the council should pass the measure and use the time and resources that would be spent on an election to meet with employers and workers and conduct a study to address the councils questions about the initiative. One of the questions weve asked often is, who will this measure benefit? And in my world, the working class is not a temporary phase, its a lifetime of work, Gilman said. Hourly workers in many different industries, workers in different phases of their life, all would benefit from increased pay and scheduling protection, whether the paycheck comes from a boutique or large, locally owned or corporate employer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the people who would benefit from the Workers Bill of Rights range from teenagers who have to contribute to the family budget, to many parents with school-age children, to elders who must continue to work to pay for their health care. The measure is an important step to leveling the playing field in Olympia and creating a strong Olympia where everybody has a chance to belong and an opportunity to live with dignity, Gilman said. Cooper said the Workers Bill of Rights isnt a vague aspiration, but a clear, community-driven mandate. Over 13,000 signatures were submitted, far exceeding the threshold required, Cooper said. Thats not just a number. Thats thousands of our neighbors, constituents and local workers from around the region telling us they want action now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the protections laid out in the initiative arent radical demands, but baseline expectations of a just and moderate economy. Studies consistently show that higher minimum wages do not reduce youth employment, he said. In fact, they often lead to better job stability and more predictable hours, things young people need just as much as anyone else. And for nonprofits, fair wages help retain staff, reduce turnover and improve service delivery. Cooper said the council often meets to talk about housing affordability, zoning, density and supply, but rarely are wages discussed. He said 44% of households in Olympia fall under the term asset-limited, income-constrained and employed, which is often referred to as ALICE. He said these are people who often work full time but still cant afford their basic necessities. Housing costs in Olympia have risen 55% over the past seven years, while wages have only risen 38%, Cooper said. The gap is not just a statistic. Its a trap. It keeps people stuck in the cycle of rent burden, unable to save, unable to move, unable to build wealth, and when people cant move up, they cant move out. Cooper said the city cant solve its housing crisis without addressing wages. We cannot build a thriving city on the backs of underpaid workers, he said. We cannot keep deferring decisions that we have the power and the responsibility to make. But Mayor Dontae Payne said he couldnt support the initiative because there are a number of things he finds problematic. He said the initiative isnt written well, and hes concerned about the impacts it will have on smaller businesses in Olympia. He said just last week the council had a study session and posed questions about the initiative to city staff that the council needed answers to before coming to a decision, yet no answers have been provided. Theyre basic questions: what are the current economic conditions of the City of Olympia? Why are we making this decision, and for whom? How many will it impact? Who will be affected? What are the consequences that we foresee and what are the ones that maybe were not thinking about? he said. Payne said the city hasnt done its homework, and it shouldnt be passing policies without all the answers. He said Olympia isnt Seattle, and you cant take whats happening there and plot it in a city the size of Olympia. Please understand that there will be those who will benefit from this action and there will be those who do not, he said. And it is just not a reality to sit here and say that its going to be beneficial to the majority of people in this community, because I dont think it will, and so I will not be supporting adopting it as an ordinance to the city tonight. Olympia council to vote on minimum wage increase proposal, but members still have questions Labor rights groups seek to put $20-per-hour minimum wage on Olympias fall ballot Olympic gold medalist and Jacksonville native Ryan Murphy returned to his hometown Wednesday with a mission far greater than winning races saving lives. Murphy joined city leaders at Blue Cypress Pool in Arlington to help launch the City of Jacksonvilles annual summer swim safety initiative. The campaign aims to reduce child drownings during the peak swimming season by promoting water safety awareness and swim education. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Drowning is the leading cause of preventable death for children ages one through five, Murphy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Donna Deegan also attended the kickoff and emphasized the importance of swim skills, especially in Jacksonville. You want to have those skills to know how to swim if you need to, Deegan said. Its really important when your community is surrounded by water to have swimming skills. Murphy also shared news about the recent opening of his Goldfish Swim School in St. Johns County, which offers year-round indoor lessons for children as young as four months old. He said there are future plans to expand the program into Duval County. And who knowsif they turn into an Olympian one day, then that can be a perk, Murphy said with a smile. But this is really about making sure kids are safe in the water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The urgency behind the campaign is backed by sobering statistics. In 2023, 97 children drowned in Florida. The Autism Society of Florida reported that 35 children with autism drowned in 2024, and 15 more have already lost their lives in 2025, as of July 19. Jacksonvilles summer swim safety initiative includes free swim assessments, outreach at local community centers, and water safety education events at public pools throughout the city. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar (D) on Tuesday slammed the GOP for dodging a vote that would call for the release of files related to deceased financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Republican leaders this week scrapped their legislative plans and headed early into a long summer recess all to avoid votes on the Epstein saga. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has insisted the move was not intended to shield Republicans from tough Epstein votes or protect Trump from potentially embarrassing disclosures but to end the Democrats political games. The pedophile protection party is shutting down Congress just to avoid voting on the release of the Epstein files, Omar wrote in a post on X in response to the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, GOP lawmakers killed a vote backed by Democrats attempting to force the release of Epsteins files. It failed 211-210 along party lines. The American people are best served by putting an end to Democrats side shows. Thats what were doing by not allowing the Rules Committee to continue with that nonsense this week, Johnson said during a Tuesday press conference. Were done being lectured on transparency, he said. However, some Republicans have refused to completely abandon the publics desire for more information related to Epsteins international illegal dealings. The House Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee voted Tuesday to subpoena Ghislaine Maxwell, longtime associate to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, to appear for a deposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some are hoping the measure will unveil new details about the list of people involved with the human trafficking ring. This is progress. We will not stop fighting until the Epstein Files are released. Trump and Bondi must stop blocking the American people from the truth, House Oversight Democrats wrote on the social platform X after the vote. On Tuesday, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche also said in a statement that he has communicated with Maxwells counsel to determine whether she would be willing to speak with prosecutors from the Department. I anticipate meeting with Ms. Maxwell in the coming days, Blanche said. Until now, no administration on behalf of the Department had inquired about her willingness to meet with the government. That changes now. Advertisement 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. A SNAP welcomed here sign is seen at the entrance to a Big Lots store in Portland, Oregon. (Getty Images) Arkansas will be on the hook for millions of dollars in additional Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funding starting in October 2026 as a result of the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act. The act, which extended a suite of tax cuts, is funded in part by significant cuts and changes to SNAP and other benefit programs. GOP lawmakers cut spending on SNAP by shifting the costs of assistance payments to states for the first time in the programs 86-year history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each states share will depend on how frequently it overpays or underpays SNAP benefits, which is expressed as a percentage called the error rate. States with error rates below 6% will continue to see the federal government foot 100% of the cost of benefits, but states with error rates over 6% the majority will pay at least 5% of SNAP benefit costs starting in fiscal year 2028. The share increases when error rates hit certain thresholds. The legislation also increases the state share of administrative costs from 50% to 75% starting in FY2027. Arkansas current payment error rate is 7.29%, according to data provided by the Department of Human Services. The Advocate used the law to calculate what effect the cost-shifting will have on Arkansas budget, which has seen billion-dollar surpluses a few years ago shrink to less than $400 million in the fiscal year that ended June 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the most expensive scenario, the additional cost to the state would be just over $100 million. Other scenarios resulted in substantially smaller hits. This new cost-sharing model has worried advocates, who fear thousands across the country could lose benefits if states cant or wont fund the increased cost-sharing. We expect that the Big Beautiful Bill is going to reduce substantially the number of people who are enrolled in SNAP benefits, said Dr. Hilary Seligman, a food insecurity expert and professor at the University of California San Francisco, who made the comments during an informational session for journalists. About 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits; Arkansas had 244,278 individuals and 129,089 households enrolled in SNAP in June, DHS spokesperson Gavin Lesnick said. Thats about 8% of the state population and 10% of households. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The increased cost-sharing required by the law means there will likely be reductions in the capacity of the state to support people, Seligman said. The Advocate calculated the additional obligations under the law could cost Arkansas an estimated $102.13 million at the high end or 55.17% of the states projected fiscal year 2026 surplus not accounting for Arkansas existing administrative cost-share obligation, or potential increases in benefit costs or enrollment. If Arkansas payment error remains flat at 7.29%, the benefit cost-share would be 5%. That could result in $26 million in new benefit cost obligations alone, or $49.97 million in total new obligations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the error rate increases to 8%, the state share would increase to 10% increasing the states benefit cost obligation to $52.15 million, and its total new obligations under the law to $76 million. That equates to roughly 41% of Arkansas projected FY2026 surplus. Holding pattern The Arkansas Legislature will meet for its fiscal session before some of the new cost-sharing goes into effect, providing an opportunity to address any likely spending and budget adjustments. But any cutbacks to SNAP in Arkansas, one of the poorest and most food insecure states in the country, could be particularly hard-felt. Emily Piechocki, chief development officer for Arkansas Foodbank, said her organization is preparing to solicit even more donations to prepare for increased demand. We know we will see an increased need, she said. We do not think it is going to be possible for us to fill the gap. I mean, we are certainly going to try but theres no way we can replace what will be lost that the government was previously funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Department of Human Services, which administers SNAP, declined an interview request to discuss the changes and how they might affect nutrition programs in Arkansas. Lesnick said the department looks forward to receiving additional guidance from the federal government now that the tax and spending law has been signed by President Donald Trump. Funding the increased costs might prove difficult as Arkansas once-robust surplus shrinks. The Legislature has cut taxes in successive legislative sessions, and Arkansas Republican supermajority and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has focused on tax cuts, not increases. Arkansas budget surplus is projected to fall to $185.1 million by June 2026, down from $367.9 million last month and $698.4 million at the end of FY2024. At the same time, Sanders has made addressing childhood food insecurity one of the centerpieces of her administration. She has frequently touted the passage of legislation providing universal school breakfast for students, regardless of financial need. Still, Arkansas has shed roughly 35% of the individuals, and approximately 23% of the households, on its SNAP rolls since FY 2018, according to federal data even as food insecurity in the state has worsened and food banks report that the demand for assistance has remained stubbornly high since the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kent Eikenberry, CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Foodbank, noted the length of time before many of the changes will go into effect. Well be spending these next couple years trying to figure out what exactly, how it is going to impact the people that we serve, Eikenberry said. Eikenberry and Piechocki agreed that the demand at their food banks has gone up considerably in recent years. Were kind of coming down from that period of time where there was more funding [to address food insecurity], and I think the need has remained, unfortunately, Piechocki said, noting that the amount of food it distributes has doubled in the last few years. Weve maintained this, kind of, higher level of distribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cathy May, the SNAP director for the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, said it would be a tragedy if states must eliminate the nutrition program or reduce its availability due to the federal cuts. May was cautiously hopeful about Arkansas funding prospects, saying the alliance planned to work closely with the state to help communities. Im hopeful that our state will come through, but, you know, part of it depends on the error rates, May said. May said she was heartbroken when the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed Congress, calling the moment crushing since she knew what it could mean for those reliant on the long-running nutrition program. Theres nothing beautiful about it, May said. Its one of the ugliest things Ive ever seen in my whole life. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. What should I read next? If only making that decision were simple: Recommendations abound online and off, but when youre casting about for a new book, especially if youre coming off the heels of something you adored, the paradox of choice can feel intense. You might turn to loved ones to ask which book would be just right for you. Avid readers frequently face a parallel dilemma; they find themselves bombarded by friends and family members who expect a perfectly tailored recommendation. Staffers at The Atlantic get these inquiries a lotoften enough to recognize that for many of us, a pattern emerges. We end up suggesting the same book, again and again, no matter whos asking. Yet each recommender cites a different set of criteria for the work that rises to the top of their list. Some of us pick a read that feels so timeless, and so widely appealing, that it truly does have something for everyone. Others among us evangelize about something so singular that it must be experienced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 12 books below have nothing in common except for the fact that their advocates have shared them time after time, and believe in their power to delight or captivate readers who have a variety of tastes and proclivities. One of them will, we hope, be the title you pick up next. The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, by Shehan Karunatilaka Some people turn to books for history, others for lessons on human nature. They might hope to better understand longing, despair, joy, or loveor simply chase the high of genre fiction (ghost stories, political thrillers, tales of redemption). To all of these readers, I invariably advocate for Karunatilakas journey into underworlds: both a supernatural realm beyond death and the demimonde of violence and corruption that fueled the Sri Lankan civil war. Seven Moons was the dark-horse winner of the 2022 Booker Prize, beating books by Percival Everett and Elizabeth Strout and rightly claiming its place in the magical-realism canon. The title character is a gay photojournalist with a consciencewhich turns out to be a very dangerous combination in 1980s Colombo. In fact, when the novel opens, hes already dead. Before moving on from Earth, he gets seven days of purgatoryduring which he must try to influence his living friends to publicize a trove of damning photographs while fending off literal demons and the dark truths hed rather avoid. My closing pitch to friends: Ive rarely read a better ending. Boris Kachka Made for Love Made for Love, by Alissa Nutting I love to suggest Nuttings work to people, even though its been called deviantif folks avoid me afterward, then I know theyre not my kind of weirdo. She has a talent for developing outrageous concepts that also reveal earnest truths about what people expect from one another and why. One of the best examples is her novel Made for Love, perhaps better known as an HBO show starring the excellent Cristin Milioti. The book, too, is about a woman whose tech-magnate husband has implanted a chip in her head, but it grows far more absurd. (A subplot, for instance, features a con artist who becomes attracted to dolphins.) Nuttings scenarios sometimes remind me of the comedian Nathan Fielders work: You will probably cringe, but youll be laughingand sometimes even nodding along. Serena Dai These Precious Days These Precious Days, by Ann Patchett Heres how I start my recommendation: Did you know that Tom Hankss assistant and Ann Patchett went from total strangers to best friends? And then, when my target inevitably shows interest in the out-there pairing of a beloved novelist and a Hollywood insider, I put These Precious Days in their hands. The titular essay is about this friendship, but the broader subject of Patchetts book is death: She contemplates the passing of the men who served as fathers in her life; she thinks about the potential demise of her husband, a small-plane pilot; and she considers the mortality of that assistant, a woman named Sooki. After Sooki, who starts her relationship with the author as a long-distance pen pal, is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she moves into Patchetts Nashville house during the coronavirus pandemic. Much of the writing, funny and sharp, follows the two of them as they work on their art, do yoga, take psychedelicsbut the sentences get their power from their awareness of the gulf between life and death that will eventually separate the two women. Emma Sarappo Trust Trust, by Hernan Diaz In 1955, James Baldwin famously pilloried Uncle Toms Cabin for its virtuous sentimentality, and called its author, the abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe, not so much a novelist as an impassioned pamphleteer. For Baldwin, Stowes well-intentioned advocacy turned her characters into caricatures who existed only in service of her ideological aimsand as a result, he believed that her novel failed as art. This trap ensnares many fiction writers, and I have spent much time thinking about how they can avoid it when tackling contemporary problems. This is one reason I constantly bring up Diazs Trust: It navigates the line between politics and artistry with rare skill. Set in New York Citys late-19th-century financial world, the book is composed of four fictional texts, each focused on the same people but written from a different vantage point. The question is: Which narrator does the reader believe? Trusts storytelling is impeccable, full of twists and surprises. The book is also a remarkable criticism of unbridled capitalismbut the story does not exist in service of a doctrine. It remains unlike anything else Ive read. Clint Smith An American Sunrise Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An American Sunrise, by Joy Harjo Harjos poetry collection begins by recounting a horrific event: In 1830, the United States government forced some 100,000 Indigenous people to walk hundreds of miles, at gunpoint, from the southeastern U.S. to lands west of the Mississippi River. Among those on this Trail of Tears were Harjos Muscogee ancestors, who left Georgia and Alabama for Oklahoma, and whose memory the writer resurrects through poems that collapse the distance between generations, making history feel present-tense. The book deftly expresses both grief for all of the violence perpetrated on American soil and a profound love for all of the beings that inhabit this continent. Ancestors and descendants dance at the perimeter of Harjos poems, and her definition of relative is wide enough to hold every living thingpanthers, raccoons, tobacco plants. Anyone could spend an afternoon with this book and come away with a refreshed, more capacious view of this country. These lands arent our lands, Harjo notes. These lands arent your lands. We are this land. Valerie Trapp Eating Stone Eating Stone: Imagination and the Loss of the Wild, by Ellen Meloy When Meloy, a desert naturalist, felt estranged from nature, she sought to cure it by stalking a band of bighorn sheep for a year in Utahs Canyonlands wilderness. She begins in winter and feels cold and clumsy. She envies the bighorns exquisite balance as she watches them spring quickly up cliff faces. She feels the power and purity of first wonder. Meloys writing is scientifically learnedbeautifully sobut this book does not pretend to be a detached study. When she hikes alongside these animals at dawn, she aches to belong. She fantasizes about being a feral child they raised. At first, the band is indifferent to her project. But animal by animal, they begin to let her into their world. To follow her there is to experience one of the sublime pleasures of contemporary American nature writing. Meloy gives an account of their culture, their affections for one another, even their conflicts. All these years after my first read, I can still hear the crack of the rams colliding horns echoing off the red rock. Ross Andersen Will and Testament Will and Testament, by Vigdis Hjorth When I picked up this novel some years ago, Id never heard of Hjorth, and I was drawn to the book simply because of the quiet mood evoked by the cover of the English-language editiona serene picture of a lonely cabin in the woods at twilight. What I found inside was a story that reads at once as a juicy diary and as a chillingly astute psychological portrait of a dysfunctional family. The story is narrated by Bergljot, a Norwegian theater critic who is estranged from much of her family because they refused to acknowledge the abuse that her father had inflicted on her. A dispute over inheritance brings the whole distant family back into painful contact. The novel was deeply controversial in Norway after Hjorths family claimed that its contents were too close to reality. Later, Hjorths sister published her own novelization of their family strife. But the scandal shouldnt detract from the novel itself, which is utterly specific yet universal: The author captures the pettiness of the familys drama and the damage they do to one another with equal fidelity. Maya Chung Alanna: The First Adventure Alanna: The First Adventure, by Tamora Pierce The kingdom of Tortall has many of the classic features of a fantasy world: strapping lords, tender ladies, charming rogues, mysterious magical forces that can be used for good or for evil. But what makes Pierces Song of the Lioness series so timeless and reliable is its heroine, Alanna, who poses as a boy in order to train as a knight. The First Adventure, which introduced her to readers in 1983, serves as an excellent gateway to the fantasy genre. The book covers Alannas years as a page in Tortalls royal palace, where, from the ages of 10 to 13, she must contend with her girlhoodwhich means navigating periods and growth spurtswhile keeping her identity a secret. Pierce never devalues Alannas feelings and experiences, and the author isnt didactic about the choices Alanna makes; readers will feel theyre being taken seriously, no matter their age. Elise Hannum Careless People Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Love, Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism, by Sarah Wynn-Williams This books summary sounds like something out of Black Mirror: An idealist embraces a new form of technology, convinced that it has the potential to change the world, only to become trapped in a hell of her own making. Wynn-Williams, a former director of public policy at Facebook, describes her experiences working at the social-networking giant with dark humor and a sense of mounting panic. I gasped a few times as Wynn-Williams recounted being commanded to sleep in bed next to Sheryl Sandberg, and being harassed by a higher-up while she was recovering from a traumatic childbirth that nearly killed her. But the real shock comes from seeing how Facebook, a site most people associate with college friends and benign memes, helped to amplify and exacerbate hate speech. This is exactly why I keep pressing it on people. The corporation, now Meta, has described some of the books allegations as false; regardless, Careless People makes a powerful case for why no single company or boss should have this kind of reckless, untrammeled power. Sophie Gilbert A Floating Chinaman A Floating Chinaman: Fantasy and Failure Across the Pacific, by Hua Hsu The first thing I like to tell people about Hsus debut book is that he took its title from a novel that had been lost, or maybe never even existed. The second thing is that it is about America, not China. A Floating Chinamans subject, broadly, is Asian American literature between the First and Second World Wars, but its main character is the eccentric novelist and immigrant H. T. Tsiang. Tsiang wrote prolifically at the same time as Pearl S. Buck, the white writer who won a Pulitzer for The Good Earth, her novel about Chinese farmers. Tsiang had high ambitions to combat Bucks rosy portrait of his birth country, but his manuscripts were dismissed again and again, partly for their political radicalism, their criticism of the U.S. and China, and their sheer weirdness. Tsiang had sketched a novel about a Chinese laborer who travels widelybut as far as Hsu can tell, Tsiangs book never materialized. Hsu honors the writers obsession and perseverance while asking a more pointed question: Were Americans unready to accept an immigrant writer who called out weaknesses in their own country? Shan Wang The Index of Self-Destructive Acts The Index of Self-Destructive Acts, by Christopher Beha Behas big-swing novel, set in the late 2000s, follows Sam, a young data-crunching blogger from the Midwest who gets hired to work at a legacy New York magazine. He arrives in the city certain that when one has the right information, the world is a knowable placebut he is soon forced to reconsider his rational worldview. Sam encounters an apocalyptic preacher, falls for the daughter of a profile subject (though hes married), and cranks out a near-constant stream of articles while struggling with unexpected doubts. The novel takes on heady themes, but it never feels dull or brainy, and all the people Ive shared it with over the years love it too. My New Yorker father told me how well it portrayed the city after the 2008 financial crisis; my friends in journalism affirm its perceptiveness about the industrys content farm days; my church friends appreciate how it takes religious belief seriously. I push it upon pretty much everyone I know. Eleanor Barkhorn Black Swans Black Swans, by Eve Babitz Reading Babitzs early work is like being whisked from one glamorous party to another. A fixture of the 1970s Hollywood scene, Babitz transcribed dozens of her own libertine experiences with diaristic recall in autofictional works such as Eves Hollywood. But by the time she released this 1993 short-story collection, the parties had fizzled out and the scene was over. Retreating from the zeitgeist didnt rob her of inspiration, though. As an older writer, Babitz possessed a new clarity about the meaning of all those youthful nights, and the stories in Black Swansabout former bohemians inching toward the staid life, and romantics bumping up against the limits of loveare told with tenderness that is unusual in her other work. Babitz is often contrasted with her frenemy Joan DidionBabitz was cast in the popular imagination as the fun, ditzy sexpot, as opposed to Didions cool, cold-blooded stenographerbut the maturity and thoughtfulness of these stories dispel any lazy stereotypes. Her early work is what made her reputation, but this later collection, in which shes looking back and making sense of it all, is simply bettera trajectory I wish for all writers. Jeremy Gordon Article originally published at The Atlantic ELMIRA HEIGHTS, N.Y. (WETM) One person is dead and another severely injured following a crash that occurred on Tuesday night in Elmira Heights. On Tuesday, July 22, at about 9:56 p.m., officers from the Elmira Heights Police Department were called to the intersection of Grand Central Ave and E 14th St for the report of a crash involving a truck and a motorcycle, as stated in a release from EHPD Chief David Noonan. In addition to EHPD, members of the Elmira Heights Fire Department, Erway Ambulance, the Chemung County Sheriffs Office, Horseheads Police Department and New York State Police were also called to the scene to assist with the crash, noted Chief Noonan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival at the scene, Chief Noonan states that officers found two people in the roadway who had sustained serious injuries. The driver of the truck remained at the scene, while the two victims were taken by ambulance to a hospital for treatment. Later on, Chief Noonan states that officers were notified that the driver of the motorcycle had died from his injuries and the passenger of the bike remained in critical condition. An investigation into the crash is still ongoing, and no further information is being released at this time. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact the EHPD at 607-733-6580. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WIREGRASS, Ala. (WDHN) Wiregrass native and Alabama senator, Katie Britt advances over millions in funding for some Wiregrass regions to the Senate. Britt advanced the 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which aims to provide $14.4 million to support local law enforcement, programs and projects in the Wiregrass and across the country. The bill will give Dothan over $1 million for drones and equipment for the citys Drone as First Responder program, and Enterprise will receive $500,000 for law enforcement equipment for their Special Response Team to combat fentanyl trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This legislation offers statewide and national funding for other programs and organizations, including millions for NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center and $10.6 billion to support the FBI. According to Britt, Securing this funding ensures Alabama remains a national leader by investing directly in the people who make our state a powerhouse. Im proud to have delivered for our people and our state, and I will continue fighting every day for hardworking Alabamians. The bill will be considered by the Senate this week before heading to the 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 WDHN - wdhn.com. When Dr. Robert Tahara performs a limb-saving procedure at Meadville Medical Center (MMC), he often does it without general anesthesia, without an overnight stay, and now, he can do it without leaving a stent behind. Using the newly approved Spur stent system, hes helping transform vascular care across the country, starting from rural northwestern Pennsylvania. This month, Tahara became the first surgeon in Pennsylvania to offer another treatment option for patients at risk of losing a limb or even their lives due to poor blood circulation. Within the vascular and endovascular surgery world, Tahara an ex-Navy diver is something of a legend. In 2018, MMC brought him in as a leading specialist in vascular surgery, where the stakes are high and the cases often life-threatening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tahara explained that the best candidates for the Spur stent procedure are the sickest those suffering from chronic critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), a condition in which blood flow is so poor it can no longer sustain the leg. According to a study released in 2023 in the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the one-year survival of someone with CLTI is about 77 percent. More patients die within five years of a CLTI diagnosis than those diagnosed with pancreatic, colorectal or liver cancer in the same time period. Many of Taharas highest-risk cases are diabetic patients facing limb loss due to gangrene. Traditional options like bypass surgery or conventional stents often arent viable especially for patients with disease below the knee. In those cases, even administering general anesthesia for surgery can be too dangerous. The vessels below the knee are extremely small, and standard stents may clot or collapse due to limited blood flow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So the Spur was designed to really be used in places where you cant leave a traditional stent either because of the size of the vessel or the location of the vessel, and it was very specifically designed for use lower in the leg for these type of cases people who are going to lose their legs, Tahara said. What is the Spur stent? The Spur stent distinguishes itself with the addition of tiny spurs on its surface but first, it helps to understand why stents are used in the first place. To treat a blockage, surgeons typically perform balloon angioplasty, inflating a balloon inside the vessel to break apart and clear away plaque. However, only 25 percent to 45 percent of those blocked areas will remain open in a year. That rate doubles to about 75 percent when a stent is used. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surgeons insert the stent through a catheter, inflate a balloon to break up plaque, and often use tools like lasers for more complete removal. Standard stents, usually made of metal, remain in the vessel to keep it open. These methods work well in larger vessels, like those in the upper leg. But in smaller, below-the-knee arteries, stents often fail prompting researchers to innovate. One advancement was the absorbable stent, made of polyglycolic acid, which the body gradually dissolves, reducing long-term risks. But Reflow Medical took a different avenue with the Spur, which remains attached to the catheter shaft, so it can be removed. Tahara has performed the procedure on two to three patients now, and with two of them, he was able to use one absorbable stent and re-sheath a Spur stent multiple times to clear blockages down the leg. Not only did it save costs by re-using a stent, but it also reduced the chance of blockage recurrence in multiple stents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Spur stent itself is usually made of nickel, tin and cobalt, with many tiny spikes on the exterior. Inserted via catheter, the stent expands when exposed to body heat, embedding its spurs into the vessel walls as it grows. In patients prone to recurrence, Tahara can also use a drug-coated balloon. The balloon delivers immunosuppressant medication through the micro-openings created by the stents spikes, reducing the likelihood of new blockages forming. With the Spur, even though its a retrievable stent, it doesnt act like a stent, the doctor said. What it actually acts like is a specialized type of balloon called a cutting balloon. Like a cutting balloon, the Spur creates micro-incisions in the plaque, allowing it to break up into smaller, more uniform pieces when the balloon is inflated making it less likely to return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bringing innovation to Meadville While some people think they have to go to larger cities for better medical care, Tahara is debunking that myth. He owns a practice in Bradford and visits MMC nine to 10 days a month to provide care in rural areas. I think sometimes people think they have to go to Pittsburgh or Erie or Buffalo or Cleveland or something like that, but theres a lot of things that are happening here that a lot of places dont do, he said. When you see people who are doing these kinds of first-in-people cases in different geographic areas or first-in-man cases, its typically because theyre recognized as being a higher-tier operator. People from Mississippi and Wyoming come to MMC just for a referral to Tahara. A main reason is for his innovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tahara has focused heavily on endovascular procedures those performed inside the blood vessels well before they became standard. He began using the approach in the early 2000s. It was still kind of considered voodoo back then, he said of the changing times. Most cardiovascular therapy in general nowadays is endovascular. Endovascular treatment offers quicker recovery and less risk, often eliminating the need for general anesthesia or overnight hospitalization. Another good thing about endovascular therapy is that in the bad old days, as I refer to them, Id have to do a bypass on everything, he said. So if you have a blockage in your thigh, I have to make an incision in the groin, an incision either above or below the knee, either use a piece of vein or a piece or artificial material and create a bypass, and do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When they were really easy in the old days, we could do some of those in 90 minutes or a little less. Nowadays, its a lot more involved, and everything is harder because the patient population is sicker. So the endovascular approach also saves us a lot of time. Though open procedures remained more durable and popular through the mid-2000s, Tahara pushed for less invasive options. One of his key innovations was accessing the vessels through the foot rather than the groin, using only local anesthetic. Although friends and colleagues thought he was crazy, the trend soon caught on in different parts of the country. What that led to was the ability to do a lot of these limb salvage procedures when people had blockages and were going to lose a leg with almost no risk, he said. If someone couldnt lay down flat because they couldnt breathe, we could do the procedure with them sitting up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, he began working with ultrasound equipment in conjunction with the foot access instead of using the traditional X-ray equipment that causes radiation exposure. By about 2010, it was pretty obvious to me that this was a better way to do it, he said. By 2013, he began using this combination of ultrasound and foot access whenever possible. So when Reflow Medical needed someone to test its new Spur technology, it made sense to choose a trusted innovator right in Meadville. How will it impact future care? Moving forward, Tahara is quick to say that this isnt a solution to the problem, but it is a step in the right direction. In each surgery he does, he is now able to deploy a variety of tools from lasers to absorbable stents, Spur stents, ultrasounds equipment and more, to make the procedure as effective as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not like any of this is a magic bullet, he said. Were always trying to balance risk and benefit, and secondarily, cost to both the patient and the system As far as cost goes, Tahara said the new technology is quite expensive. Each stent can cost around $3,000, so even if a hospital receives a $10,000 compensation for the procedure, the cost of a few stents alone can burn through that money and actually cost the hospital. A lot of the patients who receive this care are on Medicare, so in January 2026, there may be some relief as the insurance codes are changing to take into account the complexity of a procedure and the technology used in it, and properly compensate the hospital. Tahara said limb loss is not the time to be penny-pinching, though. Some people are unwilling to pay the extra cost for a stent surgery. The flip side is that very few people want to lose a leg in the exchange, he said. So a lot of the conversations we have about this stuff kind of pit the entire cost of this to the system to whats the cost to that individual. With the cost potentially being a life or a limb, this isnt a time to mess around. Tahara believes that as these cases become more frequent and complex, tools like the Spur stent will also become more commonplace as research continues. Its a new option for a disease process we have very few good options for, he remarked. In the vein of rural innovation and blending personalized care with cutting-edge technology, Tahara plans to continue his efforts toward better treatment. The floodplains ahead of me were heaving with life. More than 60,000 waterbucks graze on the grasslands of Mozambiques Gorongosa National Park the largest and densest gathering of the species in Africa. Seeing any animal in large numbers is a thrilling experience. But what made this sighting extra special was the absence of revving motors and clicking camera shutters; surrounded by 4,000 square kilometres of wilderness, I was blissfully alone. Elsewhere on the continent in a much better-known protected area, very different scenes were unravelling. As part of their annual migration, more than one million wildebeest are currently crossing between the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, thrashing through rivers and avoiding the jaws of predating crocodiles to reach fresh pastures on the other side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What was once dubbed the greatest wildlife show on earth, however, is at risk of descending into chaos. A few days ago, shocking images of vehicles crowding a major crossing point at Kogatende in northern Tanzania were posted on social media. Even more shamefully, dozens of tourists had disembarked to sit along the grassy banks as if they were spectators at a Wimbledon match. The growing number of vehicles in these areas is placing immense stress on wildlife and disrupting one of the worlds most spectacular natural events, warns Vanessa Dean, product manager for luxury tour operator Mahlatini, echoing the sentiments of many. This fragile ecosystem is being steadily eroded, largely due to a troubling lack of effective regulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frequently marketed as safaris flagship event, river crossings have attracted a post-pandemic boom in tourism to Tanzania and Kenya during the peak months of July and August. Deep-rooted problems In the last five years, annual visitor numbers to the Serengeti alone have increased by more than 100 per cent to over half a million. Every year, new tales of bad behaviour circulate vehicles crashing as they jostle for position, speakers blaring music to entertain impatient guests, and even the illegal construction of camps at crossing points. Despite new rules and restrictions, the situation is far from improving. Critics are calling for tougher penalties including higher fines and revoking licences from irresponsible driver-guides. But the problem is deeper than a few rogue operators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even high-end, reputable companies have been buckling under pressure to deliver a bucket list experience to guests. Luxury safari experts andBeyond, currently offering stays at their Grumeti camp from $2,790 per night, were named and shamed as one of the vehicles photographed in the post. River crossings have attracted a post-pandemic boom in tourism to Tanzania and Kenya - Getty We do not, and will never, condone behaviour that compromises wildlife integrity or guest safety, said andBeyonds Executive Chairman and CEO Joss Kent in a statement. He confirmed the companys guests were present at the scene, but said they did not exit their vehicle at any point, and added that a full investigation has been launched to tackle what he considers to be wider problems impacting the industry. At the heart of this failure lies mismanagement and greed, complains Jarrod Kyte, product and sales director from Steppes. He points out that the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), responsible for the Serengeti, reportedly generated around 138 million in park fees over the past year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That money should be used to enforce low-impact, well-regulated tourism, he says. Yet where were the rangers? A basic code of conduct exists but without enforcement, its meaningless. Without urgent reform, what should be the jewel in the Serengetis crown risks becoming a symbol of tourisms worst excesses. Growing pains Responding to the images posted on social media, TANAPA has promised disciplinary action will be taken. Tim Henshall, head of Tanzania Tourism UK, says new measures are already under discussion including increased patrolling of key sites, with the potential for quota systems and maximum waiting times. He is confident that crossings can still be enjoyed as a world-class experience and puts recent incidents down to growing pains as Tanzania grapples with its rising popularity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across the globe, many other fragile destinations are struggling to manage surging interest in nature tourism. Earlier this year, new regulations were put in place to increase minimum distances for viewing polar bears in Svalbard and there are continuing concerns about the number of cruise ships visiting Antarctica. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in nature tourism globally - Getty Tanzanias problem is a bottleneck of visitors in a concentrated period. We need to educate visitors that it is a 12-month cycle not a four-week scramble, says Henshall. The Serengeti is a huge national park, so there is no need to concentrate on one small sector for one small portion of the year. Safari specialists Nomad, which runs multiple camps in Tanzania, believe operators should reduce the pressure valve on guides needing to deliver that river crossing moment and focus on the migration as a year-round spectacle, where large herds can be encountered at different times of the year as they move around the park. Our message will be, should a guest want to guarantee a river crossing at any cost then Nomad will not be the right company for them, says head of sales, Rupert Finch Hatton. Tanzania dedicates a third of its land to wilderness - thats an incredible stat and a leader in Africa. We have been investing in the lesser-known areas for the last three decades and truly believe Tanzania has so much to offer outside the hotspots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two prime examples are Ruaha, a unspoilt expanse where a significant lion population thrives, and the countrys largest park, Nyerere twice the size of the Serengeti with only 39,000 visitors per year. Emerging destinations Beyond the countrys borders, more safari destinations are emerging. Multiple parks across Africa such as Zambias Kafue and Ugandas Murchison Falls are enjoying a resurgence in wildlife due to protection efforts and the reintroduction of species, but tourist numbers are yet to catch up. Anyone seeking sightings of species on a grand scale could also head to Botswanas Makgadikgadi Pans National Park on the Boteti River in November, where 30,000 zebra migrate from the Okavango Delta. Operators, authorities and camp owners have acknowledged a responsibility to step up and protect our wild spaces. But perhaps the biggest culprit in the whole sorry scenario is us, the traveller. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone wants their Instagram Moment, says Jonny May, founder of specialist Africa operator Wild Paths. We all want to take a picture of something weve seen thousands of times before. Surely we should be seeking out [something] new, rather than just repeating what everyone else has done? Largely driven by social media ironically the very tool being used to call out bad behaviour tourists are rapidly losing respect for nature, selfishly prioritising personal gratification above preserving and protecting they very things theyve paid money to see. This isnt a film set or a zoo, adds Ellie Walkinshaw, business improvement director at Yellow Zebra. Its the wild. Tourism still needs to happen, just in the right way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We see this incident as a wake-up call a reminder that wild places deserve our respect, and sometimes, whats best for the wildlife is more important than that perfect shot. 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. UPDATE: Assistant to the Oneida County Executive, Philip Vanno, responded with a statement on June 22 from the Oneida County Department of Emergency Services: The Oneida County 911 Center was not aware of any connectivity issues with the Volunteer Fire Company of Westerns radio system at the time of the event in question. We learned about the event on social media and then began investigating the matter. Once that investigation is complete, we will take any steps that may be determined necessary. WESTERN, N.Y. (WSYR) The Volunteer Fire Company of Western is urging Oneida County to fix communication issues that are critical in emergencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fire Chief Michael Anania is worried for those who live in the area that his department serves, along with his crew. If you have people inside a burning building, if you cant communicate with them or you have the structure collapse, you need to do that for their health and safety, Anania said. On June 17, Westerns volunteer firefighters responded to a water rescue on Delta Lake. The incident brought communication problems to the forefront. We had zero radio communication by the time they left the pier to when they got to the incident till they came back. In addition to that, the cell service that we have is kind of spotty, so basically, we had no communication during that call, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Oneida County Emergency Services made the switch from analog to digital communication, Chief Anania said problems have been non-stop. He added that his crew is unable to hear calls for help from their county pagers due to poor radio reception, and they are unable to use portable digital radios. They said somebody would be out here Monday to program the radios that I have sitting at the fire house for five months that they need to program through the countyto get their permissionand Im still waiting, and they didnt show up yesterday, he said. First responders are begging the county for immediate assistance. Invest in more towers, he said. Its a really serious situation, and it needs to be addressed. Build a system where we dont need these band-aids to piecemeal it together. Advertisement 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 WSYR. UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Oneida County law enforcement agencies will receive funding to sustain their fight against gun violence. The governor announced on Wednesday, July 23, that four different agencies in the county including the Utica Police Department will receive a share of more than $1.5 million to sustain their involvement in the states Gun-Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative. That share is part of almost $37 million in funding across the state this year. My top priority is public safety, and since taking office, my administration has been laser-focused on working with local law enforcement to drive down gun violence across New York communities, Governor Hochul said in a statement. New Yorks GIVE initiative is a crucial part of our comprehensive plan to reduce shootings and firearm-related violent crime and its working. But we will not stop fighting for safer streets until all New Yorkers feel safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The funding will be split among the four agencies as follows: The Oneida County District Attorneys Office will receive over half a million dollars ($527,502), The Oneida County Probation Department will receive just over $100,000 ($111,193), The Oneida County Sheriffs Office receives $20,000, and The Utica City Police Department will receive just under $900,000 ($867,079). Public safety remains a top priority for my administration, and we are proud of the progress weve made in reducing gun violence in Utica, Mayor Mike Galime said in a statement. The GIVE initiative continues to be a valuable resource in that effort by supporting essential collaborations with government partners and the community. I want to especially credit the dedicated men and women of the Utica Police Department their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to our community are the driving force behind these results. I thank Governor Hochul and DCJS for their continued commitment to public safety and for recognizing the importance of supporting local solutions to address violent crime. The Utica Police Department currently participates in the GIVE Initiative, and in the last year, they saw fewer shooting incidents with injury (six, down from eight), fewer individuals harmed by gunfire (seven, down from ten) and fewer individuals killed by gunfire (one, down from three), when compared to the same time last year. The department also reported a 31 percent reduction in violent crimes (46 down from 67 in 2024) during the first quarter of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul and the Division Of Criminal Justice Services for their continued support, training and funding in our efforts to reduce gun violence in Utica, Utica Police Chief Mark Williams said in a statement. Im pleased to share that last year marked our lowest incidence of gun violence since 2013. Furthermore, technology plays a crucial role in our fight against gun violence. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering leadership and commitment to fund our previous technology initiatives. We stand united with our other law enforcement and community service agencies in our commitment to reduce gun violence and protect our community with best practice strategies. Together we can build a future where every resident feels safe and secure in their home, free from the fear of violence. The state uses several metrics, including a five-year average of shooting incidents among others to determine the funding each county receives. The initiative also requires all partners within a county to develop a comprehensive plan to address shootings or violent crime. Partners must use Problem-Oriented Policing as the framework for developing their plans, incorporate procedural justice into all elements of the plan, and implement more than one of the following evidence-based strategies: hot-spots policing; focused deterrence; street outreach; and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. Oneida County is committed to doing everything we can to reduce gun violence and make our communities safer, Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente said in a statement. This funding from Governor Hochul and the GIVE initiative is an investment in the safety of our residents and the dedicated work of our local law enforcement agencies. We are seeing real results, and with continued support, we will build on this momentum and keep driving violence down across our cities and towns. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ONEONTA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) An Oneonta man was arrested over the weekend after he attempted to set a trailer on fire and resisted arrest by New York State Police. Troopers were called to the Oneida Village Mobile Home Park in the town of Oneonta on Saturday, July 19. They were dispatched on a call that the suspect 62-year-old Kenneth Friedlander of Oneonta was attempting to light a trailer on fire and threatening to kill people. Further investigation determined that Friedlander attempted to set a trailer on fire with a paper bag that he had ignited. When that failed, Friedlander barricaded himself in a bedroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Troopers attempted to make contact with Friedlander, he charged at the troopers with a pair of scissors. A taser was deployed; however, Friedlander continued to resist arrest. Eventually, Friedlander was placed into custody. Friedlander was processed at the State Police station in Oneonta and eventually transported to the Otsego County Jail in Cooperstown for arraignment. Friedlander is currently being charged with: first-degree Reckless Endangerment, a Class D Felony, third-degree Criminal Mischief, a Class E Felony, second-degree Menacing, a Class A Misdemeanor, and Resisting Arrest, 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 WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. Across Oklahoma and the rest of the country, many families are rethinking whether their current school is the right fit for their students and family needs. In fact, a growing number of parents are exploring alternative models like online learning or homeschooling as interest in traditional schools shifts. Whats driving this change? For some families, its about finding a safer, more flexible environment. For others, its access to specialized programs or learning at a pace that matches their childs needs. For these students and their families, virtual education can be a game-changer, providing structure, stability and a holistic support system. However, the online school model is often misunderstood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For decades, Oklahoma students in rural towns, large cities and everywhere in between have experienced the benefits of public school from home. One of the key features of this learning model is flexibility. Its ideal for different types of learners: high-achieving students who are ready to move ahead in their studies, military-connected families who relocate often or children experiencing challenges, like bullying or trauma. For others, its simply about creating more time for extracurricular commitments or learning in a quieter, less-distracting environment. Regardless of their circumstances, virtual education affords all these students the opportunity to experience personalized learning molded to their needs. Oklahoma's online schools yield targeted learning Online schools are able to create smaller targeted learning sessions to close learning gaps while fostering caring cultures that support students through their most formative years. Online students enjoy hands-on learning, student-led clubs, creative competitions, interactive events, Advanced Placement classes, and college and career prep resources. These activities can take place virtually or in-person, facilitating connection and creativity. Opinion: Oklahoma could change charter school laws, embrace other forms of school choice Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That sense of community doesnt end when class is over. Todays students are tech savvy, and spaces like the K12 Zone, an interactive virtual campus, encourage students to socialize with classmates online and access other learning resources. Oklahoma has a teacher shortage. This helps Online education provides more options for educators, too. Online teachers in our state are Oklahoma-certified teachers who are trained to provide a personalized learning experience that puts students first. Virtual public schools offer these educators a stable, long-term career path one that allows them to grow professionally while remaining rooted in the communities they serve. In the face of Oklahomas ongoing teacher shortage, this encourages longevity among teachers. As a result, it creates stability and continuity for students, allowing them to build longer lasting relationships with educators who understand their strengths and where improvements are needed. In addition to teachers, virtual students receive support from counselors, community family advisers and other administrators. This wraparound care means families have a trusted, consistent point of contact who supports families from enrollment through graduation and helps students avoid falling through the cracks a concern for many families. As a result, families often choose virtual education and stay for the entire journey, building a sense of familiarity that begins when students are young. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In-person school isnt the right fit for every learner, and thats OK. Families today have more educational options than ever. Online learning offers a structured, supportive alternative that meets students where they are. With the right fit, all students can thrive academically, socially and personally. Audra Plummer Audra Plummer is the head of school at Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy, a tuition-free, full-time online public school for students in grades K12. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma online schools are viable options for students | Opinion SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) A survey of Onondaga County legislators taken by NewsChannel 9 shows a majority of its members are planning to approve a law that asks voters to consider term limits for their offices. Between members co-sponsoring the legislation and those whove signaled their approval, the body seems to have more than the nine votes needed to pass the legislation. The law, scheduled for a vote on August 1, would allow the proposal to move forward to the November ballot, where voters will ultimately decide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislation was introduced at Tuesdays meeting of the Onondaga County Legislatures Ways and Means Committee. The plan calls for Onondaga County legislators terms to be expanded from two to four years, while also instilling a limit of three consecutive terms or 12 years total. Two-year terms, including for members of the U.S. House of Representatives and both bodies of the New York State Legislature, are often thought to be too short before the elected person gets distracted by the need to campaign for re-election and fundraise. Four-year terms lead to more stability in government. But enacting a limit allows new blood and fresh perspectives to replace term-limited legislators. If approved by voters in November of 2025, the four-year terms begin with legislators elected in November of 2026. State Law requires county legislative elections to now be conducted on even years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed term limits are for only legislative seats in Onondaga County. The plan will not impact the four-year, limitless terms for the offices of county executive, district attorney, sheriff, comptroller and clerk. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OPELOUSAS, la. (KLFY) Its time of year again where kids are getting ready for another school year. And with that idea in mind, there are plenty of events going on, especially here in the Opelousas area, to make sure that kids are ready to go back to school. At the Boys and Girls Club in Opelousas, Marvin Richard spoke about the 12th annual Back to School Supply Drive on July 26. Were giving book sacks and supplies. We also have little fun events. We got a talent show. Free CPR. Thats something that everybody should know how to do. Marvin Richard said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition with the Boys and Girls Club, the Holliwood Cutz in Opelousas, will be hosting a free hair cut event on August 4th. The owner, Joey Richard, shared how a fresh cut before school starts could provide a much-needed confidence boost for young people. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest August 4th. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., its an event where we have free haircuts for kids. We do poboys for them, backpacks, school supplies. And we got a few surprises we will bring in for the kids. So, we need them to get down here. Joey Richard said. With all of these events, Marvin and Joey Richard spoke on the importance of helping parents, giving students confidence and being prepared for the school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to start the kids off on a positive note for the school year. You know, some of them maybe didnt have a chance to go on vacation or they may be feeling down. So, in this social climate, this mental capacity of our kids today, we want to start them off on the right foot. Joey Richard said. I love my community. And I always say when you love your community, you show your community by example. It was about just wanting to help our community. Ill help parents out because I know times are really hard. Marvin Richard added. 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. President Trump accuses Barack Obama of treason, calling him the "ringleader" in a supposed effort to rig the 2016 election. The outburst comes as the DOJ moves to interview Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell and House Republicans prepare to subpoena her. The Way Too Early panel unpacks the timingand the distractions. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Operation H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Endure) is hosting their 30th Annual Back to School Giveaway this weekend. This years event will provide backpacks and school supplies to 500 children in need in the El Paso area. Operation H.O.P.E. says the supplies help young students return to school with confidence and a positive attitude. Families can also look forward to appearances by the Operation H.O.P.E. Superhero League. This year, Operation H.O.P.E. is partnering with luchadores from Cinta De Oros School of Lucha Libre, Cesar Ornelas Law, Jessica Morales Allstate, The Williams Advanced Realty Team, Joint Task Force North Compound (JTF-N), EPPD Central P.A.R. office, and Craze Lemonade, who will be providing their signature lemonades and Coconut Agua Fresca. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event is happening at 10 a.m. this Saturday, July 26, at the Boys & Girls Clubs of El Paso. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Despite the recent and overwhelming Senate vote to defeat a proposed decade-long ban on state AI safety laws, some in Congress are preparing to undermine the will of four in five Americans and reverse this achievement. After outcry from conservatives and liberals, state and federal lawmakers, and parents across the country, the Senate voted 99-1 to defeat the proposed ban, which was buried in the one big beautiful budget bill. Their uproar was justified. A moratorium on state AI safety legislation would be a dream come true for AI companies. It would mean no rules, no accountability and total control and a nightmare for families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Congress is failing to address urgent issues around AI, states are enacting laws that allow for industry growth while also protecting consumers at the same time. Yet, despite the Senates July 1 vote to protect states rights to keep residents safe, a moratorium is expected to once again rear its ugly head, either as new legislation or language snuck into some other large bill. This is an irresponsible and indefensible policy approach, and it is a direct threat to the safety and well-being of consumers, especially children. There are multiple signs that the push for a moratorium is not dead. A draft document has been circulated in D.C. that President Trump will supposedly reveal for an AI action plan that could withhold federal funds from states with restrictive AI regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House Energy and Commerce Committee posted on social media last week against burdensome AI regulations. Tech industry lobbyists, arguing against the alleged threat from multiple state laws, are talking up revising the failed moratorium provision. And tech policy observers are keeping their eye out for a vehicle to block state regulation, such as a stand-alone bill, an amendment in a must-pass bill (like the National Defense Authorization Act) or an end-of-year appropriations bill. AIs risks to kids are well-documented and, in the worst cases, deadly. AI has supercharged kids exposure to misinformation. AI-generated child sexual abuse material is also flooding online spaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But perhaps the most alarming trend is the rapid rise of social AI companions. Research released earlier this year by my organization, Common Sense Media, shows that three-quarters of teens have used AI companions, and many are regularly turning to them for emotional support. Our Social AI Companions Risk Assessments demonstrated that AI companions will readily produce inappropriate responses, including those involving sexual role-play, offensive stereotypes and dangerous advice that, if followed, could have life-threatening consequences. In our test cases, AI companions shared a recipe for napalm, misled users with claims of realness, and increased mental health risks for already vulnerable teens. Based on our findings, we concluded that no one under 18 should use AI companions. In response, states have moved swiftly to address these threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York adopted new safeguards for AI companions and the largest, most advanced generative AI models. In California, bills are advancing to ban AI companions for minors, codify AI industry whistleblower protections and require greater transparency by AI companion platforms for all users. Kentucky enacted a law to protect residents from AI-enabled discrimination by state agencies. The Maryland legislature is considering a bill to establish AI bias auditing requirements. And last year, Tennessees Republican governor signed first-in-the-nation legislation to protect music artists from unauthorized AI-enabled voice cloning. These laws arent radical overreaches. They are common-sense guardrails rooted in federalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of the proposed moratorium AI industry lobbyists chief among them argue that state laws will deter innovation. But thats not how American governance works. States have always served as laboratories of democracy, and many of todays strongest federal consumer protections began as state laws. If Connecticut hadnt led the way, you might still be breathing in cigarette smoke at restaurants. And if not for a New York law, your car might not have seatbelts today. Smoking restrictions didnt bankrupt Big Tobacco, and seatbelt laws didnt kill the car industry. AI safety laws arent stopping America from leading on AI. But they will make the technology safer, smarter and more sustainable. That ethos has always been core to tech policy advocates mission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We believe in the power of technology, including AI, to do good, and we support well-crafted policy that protects kids without sacrificing innovation. What we dont support is letting tech companies use kids as guinea pigs like what was allowed with the rise of social media with AI. And while we commend both red and blue states for protecting kids from unsafe AI, we also recognize that theres a need for national leadership that enables both safety and growth. These arent opposing goals in fact, the former makes the latter sustainable. Congress ought to recognize that. This is an all-hands-on-deck moment. Lawmakers at all levels must play an active role in ensuring that the AI revolution helps our kids thrive. And our polling shows that voters overwhelmingly want all levels of government involved. That means crafting intelligent policies that support safe AI development, including risk-based audits, transparency and whistleblower protections. It means expanding data privacy protections, especially for kids. And it means ensuring that AI products impacting kids are built with safety and accountability in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress made the right call last month, even if they had to be nudged, and it must do so again. U.S. senators and representatives, as well as the president, must reject new attempts to ban or restrict states from protecting residents from the known risks of new technology. Their constituents demand it. The next generation demands it. Our AI future demands it. James P. Steyer is founder and CEO of Common Sense Media. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 more Americans struggle to find affordable housing, homelessness is increasingly a reality for families with children across our country. This is why its particularly concerning to see that the presidents 2026 budget proposal not only cuts funding for public schools by 15% but would effectively remove existing support for children experiencing homelessness. When Congress takes up the fiscal year 2026 budget, leaders should maintain dedicated funding to support these vulnerable children. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Roughly 1.4 million children in schools across the U.S. are homeless. These children currently have legal protections that remove barriers to enrollment and attendance. This has been the case since the signing of the federal McKinney-Vento Act by then-President Ronald Reagan in 1987. The law recognizes the challenges faced by children who lack a fixed, stable, and adequate nighttime residence and protects childrens right to enroll in and remain in school when their lack of stable housing might otherwise make this impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with legal protections, the law authorizes federal funding that helps schools identify and support children experiencing homelessness. These funds are used most frequently to provide transportation and school supplies to students and hire outreach staff who work with community agencies and train school personnel on how to connect children and families with needed services at their school and in the community. Related For Many Students, Homeless Means School-less and Things Could Get Even Worse Since the enactment of the McKinney-Vento Act, a growing body of research has demonstrated why the protections are needed. My research shows children experiencing homelessness are more likely to be chronically absent from school and less likely to graduate high school, compared to the entire student body, as well as economically disadvantaged students. Teens experiencing homelessness also face significantly greater risks to their health and well-being, with a risk of attempted suicide more than four times greater than their high school peers. While annual funding designated for helping schools serve students without stable housing makes up less than 1% of past years federal education budget at roughly $129 million annually, these funds have a substantial impact. In an evaluation of American Rescue Plan funding targeted to improve identification and services for homeless students (ARP-HCY), school districts that received additional funding saw a 25% increase in the identification of students experiencing homelessness, as well as reduced rates of chronic absenteeism, improvements in reading, science and math, and increased graduation rates among homeless students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, in a separate study of New York State schools that I worked on at Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan in partnership with SchoolHouse Connection, school personnel reported that school districts that had previously had little awareness of the impact of homelessness on children in their schools were better able to identify and serve students as a result of receiving dedicated funding. Related New Report: How Districts in 7 States Are Helping Chronically Absent Homeless Kids The presidents 2026 budget proposal will gut the McKinney-Vento Act and leave children who are homeless without the vital support of their schools. The proposal rolls 18 programs - including McKinney-Vento funding for homeless students - into a single flexible state block grant, and it cuts the collective funding for those programs from $6.5 billion to $2 billion. Proponents argue that the block grant approach does not eliminate funding for homeless students and simply provides states more flexibility in how they spend their education dollars. However, previous state block grants tell a different story. When funding for an established program is transferred to unrestricted block grants, grants often do not continue to be used for their original purpose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best example of this is the replacement of federal cash assistance with the block grant for states known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Since the TANF block grant was put in place, the total amount of cash assistance provided to families fell by 78% in real value from 1993 to 2016. This decline did not coincide with a decrease in need; instead it was driven by fewer needy families receiving assistance. The most recent fiscal data available shows that as of FY 2023 only one-quarter of TANF spending nationally went to basic assistance, with some states spending as little as 2%. By cutting the overall budget for the 18 federal education programs covered in the proposed state block grant by 70%, states will be in a position of scarcity trying to cover program needs that cannot all be met. We saw this during the pandemic when only 18% of school homelessness liaisons surveyed said their districts spent federal coronavirus relief education funding on services for homeless students - despite that being an allowable use of the funds. Without the backing of a federal requirement that homeless students be identified and served by schools and a corresponding budget allocation, funding for students who are homeless will be eaten away by other programs in many states, and legal protections will disappear. There is still time to ensure that the final education budget does not strip away the educational rights of students experiencing homelessness. Congress should not include the McKinney-Vento program in any block grant, but rather keep it in its current form, as the budget proposal does for both Title I programs that serve students in high-poverty areas and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act programs. By preserving the McKinney-Vento program, we can ensure that being homeless as a child does not determine the course of that childs education or future. Over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, I was pleased to see homes and businesses unfurl their American flags. The sight of those flags reminded me of something that caught my eye when I first started working at the Pentagon the American flag patch on the right shoulder of an Air Force officers flight suit looked backward. The stars appeared on the right side of the flag, with the horizontal stripes on the left. After spotting this same orientation on other military uniforms, I asked her about it. Without missing a beat, she explained, Its because in battle, the standard bearer led the formation holding the flag flying, always moving forward. The flag is supposed to fly in the direction were heading. America leads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement America leads. Within that simple explanation lay a deeper truth: For the men and women who wear the uniform, the American flag is directional, not decorative. It represents motion, purpose and conviction. And for them, and for our nation, that direction is forward. As someone who never served but spent the Biden administration trying to improve the quality of service and quality of life for those who do, I came to understand that for members of the military, the flag stands for the Constitution and the oath they take to defend it not an individual president, and certainly not a political movement. As I traveled to military installations around the world, I saw in action the powerful symbolism of the American flag. It means something when people see it on the shoulders of U.S. troops in conflict zones and to allies who fight alongside them. It means something when it arrives with humanitarian aid. And it means everything to those men and women in uniform who proudly display it not because they agree with every administration or policy, but because they believe in the enduring promise of this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why it pains me to see some Democrats, progressives and young Americans who oppose President Trumps authoritarianism turn away from the flag. At protests opposing the militarization of our cities, some burn it in anger or let other nations flags stand in for our own. The impulse is understandable especially for those who feel marginalized, betrayed or worse, targeted, by his dark vision. However, Democrats cannot let frustration with what hes doing to the country drive them to disown its foundational symbols. The Trump era will end, and when it does, the party needs a positive agenda to build back from the charred, hollow husk of a democracy Trump and henchmen intend to leave us. Thats why Democrats cant abandon the flag. Instead, the party has to reclaim it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American flag doesnt belong to Trump. His appointees use it as a prop, his fans desecrate it as a costume, and, when his followers are unhappy with the direction of the country, as a warning: flying it upside down or swapping it out entirely for symbols of defeat and division. When Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, they did it wrapped in the Confederate flag, the Gadsden Dont Tread on Me flag, even Trumps campaign flag. These are not expressions of patriotism; theyre declarations of resentment, conspiracy and insurrection. Meanwhile, progressives have always fought for what the flag is supposed to mean: equal justice under law, the dignity of all people and opportunity regardless of background. Members of the Democratic Party have led the battles for civil rights, voting rights, reproductive freedom, worker protections and gay and transgender equality. These are not fringe causes; they are deeply American causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And thats why Democrats and progressives should fly the flag. They should be proud to carry the American flag at every march, every campaign rally, every protest for justice and equality. I still have the American flags I and other progressives waved in Chicagos Grant Park on election night 2008. We should make it clear that this flag represents our values: the belief that our democracy must be defended against all threats foreign and domestic, and that the Constitution means what it says all of it, not just the parts that are politically convenient. Let Trump wrap himself in symbols of grievance. Let his allies turn upside-down flags into a twisted badge of resistance. For too long, Democrats and progressives have allowed ourselves to be painted as somehow less patriotic because we dare to criticize Americas shortcomings. We should be the ones raising the flag upright and forward, just as that Air Force officer explained to me years ago because we still believe in leading, in progressing, in moving forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its time to remind Americans that the flag belongs not to those trying to dismantle our democracy, but to those determined to protect it. This first year of Trumps nightmarish sequel, next year during Americas 250th birthday celebration, and then into the midterm elections, Democrats, regardless of whether they are veterans, should raise it proudly. They should not do this as a symbol of blind nationalism, but as a declaration of fidelity to democratic principles and as a symbol of our commitment to make the values that underpin it real once again. Alex Wagner is an adjunct professor at the Maxwell School, Syracuse University and was the assistant secretary of the Air Force for manpower and reserve affairs during the Biden administration. Advertisement 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. As a son of the South and a proud representative of New Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Lafourche, Assumption, and the River Parishes, I know what education means to a childs future. Thats because seen what happens when its denied. Now, I am watching in real time as our nation walks backward. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court handed President Trump another victory in his mission to shrink and now dismantle the Department of Education. With this decision, nearly 1,400 public servants will be laid off. Vital programs will be gutted. Oversight of special education, civil rights enforcement in schools, after-school programming and college financial aid will be slashed or eliminated all under the banner of returning control to the states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let me say this plainly: Weve been here before. And we know what happens when the federal government turns its back on education and civil rights. During Reconstruction, the Freedmens Bureau a federal agency built schools across the South to educate newly freed Black Americans. That wasnt a gesture of kindness. It was an act of justice. But when Reconstruction ended and federal protections were withdrawn, those schools closed, the progress collapsed, and systemic inequality returned with a bloody vengeance. Thats not just history its a warning. We saw it again under Jim Crow, when separate-but-equal meant separate-and-unequal. And we saw it when four young Black girls had to be escorted by federal marshals just to walk into a schoolhouse. That wasnt a state triumph it was a federal intervention. It was Washington, not the state capitol, that protected their right to learn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, when this administration says it wants to return power to the states, we must ask: Power to do what? Because too often, that phrase has been used as a shield for discrimination, neglect and inequality. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in her dissent, warned: When the executive publicly announces its intent to break the law, and then executes on that promise, it is the judiciarys duty to check that lawlessness not expedite it. She is correct. And her words echo my own belief that when faced with injustice, it takes action from all of what I call the three Cs: Congress, the courts and the community. Congress must act to protect education funding, to block reckless dismantling of federal agencies, and to ensure that every child, in every zip code, has equal access to a quality education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courts must remain vigilant to uphold the Constitution and reject political power grabs that undermine our democracy and our rights. And the community you and I must stay engaged, informed and vocal. We must attend school board meetings, call our elected officials, support teachers and students, and hold decision-makers accountable. I have spent my life in public service first on the New Orleans City Council, then in the Louisiana Legislature, and now in Congress because I believe government can be a force for good. But only if we fight to keep it that way. This decision is not about trimming fat. It is about cutting off lifelines to students with disabilities, families relying on after-school care and communities still facing educational inequity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The world is watching. Our children are watching. And history is watching too. Let us rise to meet this moment not retreat from it. Our children are not expendable. Our future is not negotiable. And our commitment to justice must never be optional. Troy A. Carter, Sr. represents Louisianas 2nd District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. On the long list of Republicans recent disgraces, Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) decision to shut down the House until September rather than allow a vote to release Jeffrey Epsteins files may be at the very top. Apparently the people who urged Americans to do your own research on vaccines really dont want you thumbing through information on Epstein. Johnsons spineless play is one more MAGA middle finger to a public that just wants Congress to keep its word. What makes this retreat truly shameful is the fact that Republicans arent doing any of this for some lofty moral purpose. Their stop-work order doesnt represent the desires of MAGA voters, a majority of whom want the Epstein files released. It doesnt prevent a bad law from passing or draw attention to an injustice being committed on the House floor. Rather, Johnson and his Republican colleagues have decided that whatever is in the Epstein files is worse for them than the hell theyre currently catching from voters. That says a lot, because President Trumps handling of the Epstein scandal is absolutely toxic with almost every group in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only 40 percent of Republicans approve of Trumps handling of the files, while some of the presidents top MAGA influencers now openly wonder why hes working so hard to protect information about one of the countrys most notorious pedophiles. At just 38 percent approval, Trump is approaching a level of unpopularity he hasnt felt since early 2017, as voters struggle to make sense of his abrupt about-face. Republican lawmakers arent having much luck figuring out Trumps motives, either. Theyve given up even trying to defend his bizarre claim that Epsteins crimes were a hoax financed by Democrats. Instead, theyve turned off the lights on Capitol Hill and sprinted away. Voters are right to be suspicious. We should get real answers on what happened to Jeffrey Epstein. All of that should be open to the public, it should be absolutely transparent, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told Fox News in 2023. But Kennedy, who made several trips on Epsteins private jet, now refuses to answer questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, future Vice President JD Vance implied that anyone fighting to keep Epsteins files secret could be a potential client. What possible interest would the US government have in keeping Epsteins clients secret? he added. Its a great question that still demands an answer. Last week, the White House introduced its latest effort to delegitimize whatever horrors are hidden in the pages it still refuses to reveal. In an Oval Office press conference, Trump authorized Attorney General Pam Bondi to release whatever is credible from files he claimed a day before didnt exist at all. By floating the idea that some of Epsteins files could be fake, Trump is setting the stage to invalidate any references to him in the documents if those specific pages are even allowed to see the light of day. What must be going through Johnsons head as he directs House Republicans to sink bill after bill ordering the release of Epsteins files? Johnson has long made his Christian faith a centerpiece of his public identity, to the point of questioning whether religion should even be separate from government. Yet his desire to lead Congress with Christian morality was no match for Trump, who seemingly co-opted Johnson into his cover-up scheme without a whisper of resistance from the Speaker. Johnsons decision to walk off the job and away from the business of the American people is jarring even by the low standards of the Trump era. After whining for an entire campaign season that Democrats werent working hard enough, Johnsons Republicans have passed fewer laws and worked less than any Congress in decades. Cornered by Epstein drama of their own making, Johnsons Republicans are no longer even pretending to do their jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congressional Republicans no longer serve the American people at large, or even their own conservative constituents. They serve or in the case of Johnsons early recess, dont serve in whatever way best protects Trumps personal and political interests. If that means hiding Epsteins heinous crimes from public accountability and denying closure to his many victims, so be it. Johnsons decision to shutter the House in order to protect Trump reveals a Congress in an advanced state of decay and a Republican Party willing to rationalize any evil in the name of protecting its strongman. What other horrors will Mike Johnson bury in order to keep his morally bankrupt party afloat? Max Burns is a veteran Democratic strategist and founder of Third Degree Strategies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Research consistently tells us that foundational math skills are strong predictors of later academic success - not only for advanced math but also for reading and cognitive development. In fact, early math proficiency in kindergarten has also been found to be a better predictor of later academic success than early reading proficiency. But the attention that math actually gets, from classrooms to statehouses, doesnt reflect the gravity of its long-term impact. The latest data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) revealed that math scores for fourth-grade students saw the largest drop in the assessments 50-year history, with declines the steepest for students furthest from opportunity. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Just as the science of reading has sparked system-wide shifts in how literacy is taught, the science of how early math must be taught deserves the same attention and action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Too often, the issue starts with how we prepare future teachers. A recent National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) report found that most teacher-preparation programs devote insufficient time to key math concepts. When new teachers lack confidence and skills in early math instruction, their students risk falling behind, setting off a chain reaction that can limit students long-term potential. As a nation, we can change this reality by investing in teacher-preparation programs - one of the first and most important junctures to shape mindsets, beliefs, and practices. Ensuring that future teachers receive high-quality, evidence-based preparation in teaching math to young children is one of the most powerful steps we can take to improve learning outcomes. Related New Report: States Need to Up Their Game on Preparing Elementary Math Teachers In 2024, Deans for Impact (DFI) launched the Early Numeracy by Scientific Design (ENbSD) Network to support programs that bring evidence-based instructional practices to the forefront of teacher training. The network convened three Texas educator-preparation programs Sam Houston State University, Texas A&M University Texarkana, and Stephen F. Austin State University to redesign how future educators are prepared to teach math in PreK-3 classrooms. This network builds on DFIs decade-long work to help programs redesign preparation experiences grounded in evidence-based instruction; since 2015, DFI has supported more than 260 programs to ensure 110,000 future teachers across 45 states are better prepared for the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In our first year of the math initiative, we kicked off conversations with faculty, both in mathematics departments and in colleges of education, to understand the current state of early math instruction in their programs and identify critical next steps to redesign coursework. We observed instruction in K-3 classrooms, reviewed data on teacher-candidate knowledge and skills, analyzed course materials, and gathered expert feedback to reveal current strengths and opportunities for growth. We also used three research-based instructional practices to guide our work: balancing conceptual and procedural knowledge, focusing on mathematics language, and implementing explicit and systematic instruction. Over the course of the year, faculty used this framework to examine their syllabi and coursework and to begin co-designing improvements. Through the first year of this work, we uncovered critical insights that can inform how more teacher-preparation programs can support the success of Pre-K math teachers and their students: 1. While math anxiety is real and widespread among teachers, thoughtful coursework design can alleviate concerns. Many teacher candidates arrive in preparation programs with negative experiences or insecurities about math. This anxiety affects how they engage with the material and how theyll eventually teach it. Addressing this challenge requires thoughtful design of coursework that builds confidence and reinforces math as something aspiring teachers can understand and teach well. 2. Early math classrooms cannot be underestimated as a critical lever for students long-term success. Theres a persistent assumption that early math is easy, but that couldnt be farther from the truth. While many children may have a basic grasp of counting upon entering school, research tells us that they can benefit from teachers not only reinforcing these skills but also exposing them to more advanced mathematical concepts earlier on. Doing so ensures that more students access and cement foundational skills, which is essential given how much academic math builds on prior knowledge. While aspiring teachers may find basic number sense and operations skills easy to grasp, the knowledge and skill required to assess where students are in their learning and make effective instructional moves can lead to early success and confidence. As a result, were designing instructional modules that ensure learning opportunities that bridge content and instructional knowledge. 3. Collaboration across teacher-preparation programs and K-12 partners is essential for stronger preparation. In many universities, math content is taught separately from math pedagogy, sometimes in entirely different departments. As a result, future teachers may learn about mathematical concepts in one class but not learn how to actually teach them until a course several semesters later. They also might not get any opportunities to observe or practice in real PreK-3 classrooms during their preparation, losing out on real-world experiences to hone their skills. Without intentional collaboration across these areas, future teachers experience disjointed training. Our network sought to address this misalignment by creating space for mathematics faculty and teacher educators to meet regularly, give each other feedback, and align their instruction to support teacher candidates more holistically. These bridges unlock enormous potential for program-wide change. In one instance, a math and education professor were compelled to co-teach a course together, an unprecedented collaboration in the program that supported candidates to meaningfully connect the dots between content and instruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking ahead to year two of the network, we hope to strengthen the way we prepare teachers with new instructional modules ready to be piloted in the fall and stronger collaboration across faculty, partnering K-12 schools, and programs. Were working with faculty across departments to build a strong, cohesive arc for how early numeracy is taught across entire preparation programs. Most importantly, these programs are modeling whats possible in teacher preparation. Improving math instruction is not just a job for prep programs and K-12 school districts. State policymakers can uphold high standards for effective preparation aligned to evidence and require or incentivize ample on-the-job learning opportunities for aspiring teachers to put knowledge into practice. Philanthropy organizations and funders can invest in emerging efforts and lift up promising models of effective practice. When teacher-prep programs are empowered to make evidence-based early numeracy a priority, all teachers and students stand to benefit. In what Bloomberg termed a dramatic reversal, the Trump administration will grant licenses to Nvidia Corp. so that it can sell its H20 chips to Chinese parties. In April, Trump officials had prohibited the sale of H20s to that country. At the same time, Advanced Micro Devices announced plans to resume sales of its MI308 artificial intelligence chip to China. The sale of advanced microchips to China is a mistake, almost certainly a grave one, but it is a mistake that the industry is determined to make. Not satisfied with exporting just the H20, Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang said at a press conference in Beijing this month that he wanted to sell even more advanced chips. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason for that is because technology is always moving on, he explained. Its not like wood. Today, [the NVIDIA Hopper GPU architecture] is terrific, but some years from now we will have more and more and better and better technology, and I think its sensible that whatever were allowed to sell in China will continue to get better and better over time as well, Huang said. Nvidia said it will develop for export to China a new chip based on its Blackwell design. The chip will allow users to integrate AI into manufacturing. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick justified the reversal of the export ban by pointing out that the H20 was only Nvidias fourth best chip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont sell them our best stuff not our second-best stuff, not even our third-best, he told CNBC on the 15th. You want to sell the Chinese enough that their developers get addicted to the American technology stack. The idea is the Chinese are more than capable of building their own, the Commerce secretary said. You want to keep one step ahead of what they can build, so they keep buying our chips. The problem with this thinking is that it is based on the false premise that China does not at its core need American chips, so theres no harm in selling them to prolong Chinese dependence. Despite Beijing pouring significant subsidies into its domestic semiconductor industry, China cannot produce chips capable of training leading AI models, leaving Chinese firms reliant on American suppliers, wrote Jack Burnham and Miles Kershner of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies after the H20 announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This reliance has led to significant computing shortages. Even DeepSeek, a leading Chinese AI developer, has publicly stated that its models power remains constrained due to American export controls on advanced AI chips. So will China be able to develop comparable chips to Americas best? Chinas Communist Party has always been known for lying, and we need look no further than its tech leviathan Loongson Technology, Blaine Holt, a retired U.S. Air Force general and now China commentator, told me this month. Loongson, we were told, was better than Intel and powered everything electronic in China. The discovery that their flagship chip, the 3C6000, was barely on par with Intel chips from 13 generations ago has consequences for users, especially the Peoples Liberation Army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huang assures Americans that China will not use the H20 for its military. We dont have to worry about it, he told CNNs Fareed Zakaria earlier this month. Despite what Huang says, we must worry. According to Burnham and Kershner, giving China the H20 will allow it to rapidly integrate AI into its military while it continues to pursue self-sufficiency. The H20, significantly more powerful than Nvidias export-compliant H100 line, will be essential for AI deployment due to its memory capabilities, the Foundation for Defense of Democracies scholars point out. The Trump administration, they note, is giving China a much-needed boost in the race for artificial intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And that boost comes at a crucial time for AI development. The No. 1 factor that will define whether the U.S. or China wins this race is whose technology is most broadly adopted in the rest of the world, said Brad Smith, Microsofts president, in congressional testimony. Whoever gets there first will be difficult to supplant. According to Jensen Huang, China is going to defeat the United States in the push for AI supremacy, Brandon Weichert, senior national security editor of The National Interest, told me. Weichert said since the Trump administrations first attempt at slowing the sale of high-end chips to China Beijings AI development has been slower than that of Americas because they lacked direct and easy access to those high-end chips. Authorizing Huangs Nvidia to sell these chips to China will ensure that China does, in fact, outpace the Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So why would Trump allow the sale of the H20 to China? Many suspect the permission was part of a deal: China resumes sales of rare earths to the U.S. and America removes chip restrictions. Lutnick confirmed the outlines of this arrangement. China certainly got the better of the bargain. America can source rare earths elsewhere or even buy them surreptitiously from Chinese parties these minerals are actually so rare but China must buy American chips, from Nvidia, AMD, or some other U.S. company. It is true that, up to now, Chinese parties have been able to buy Nvidia chips through black market channels, but now they will be able to get more chips at cheaper prices and at a faster pace because they will be buying from Nvidia directly. Speed, as Smith noted, is critical in the race to develop artificial intelligence. Beijing has been touting its technological supremacy, and nothing would undercut its grand claims more than if its AI development visibly stalled because the Chinese could not get microchips from American companies. Xi Jinping in June said that high tech is a main area of global competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commerce Department made the right call in banning the H20, Rep. John Moolenaar, the Michigan Republican who chairs the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, posted on X last week. Now it must hold the line. We cant let the Chinese communists use American chips to train AI models that will power its military, censor its people and undercut American innovation. Gordon G. Chang is the author of Plan Red: Chinas Project to Destroy America and The Coming Collapse of China . Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Trump is furious with former President Barack Obama, whom he is accusing of participating in a coup against him in 2016. Trump is referring, of course, to recent disclosures from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard documents showing it was Obama who encouraged intelligence officials to reach stronger conclusions about Russias alleged meddling in the 2016 election. According to Gabbard, the intelligence community was well aware that Russia did not hack voting machines, nor did the country have much impact on the outcome, but Trumps enemies in the Democratic Party wanted to paint him as a Russian collaborator, and so they overreached. The media, of course, followed suit, publishing headline after headline suggesting that Trump was a Russian stooge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here is President Trump reacting to the latest news: We found absolute this isnt like evidence, this is like proof, irrefutable proof, that Obama was seditious. That Obama was trying to lead a coup. And it was with Hillary Clinton and with all these other people, but Obama headed it up. And, you know, I get a kick when I hear everyone talks about people I never even heard of. [] It was Obama, he headed it up. And it says so right in the papers. These allegations are extremely serious. Now, its far too premature to throw around the word treason. In fact, I dont like when anybody, Democrat or Republican, starts accusing their opponents of treason. This reads less like treason to me and more like political weaponization of national intelligence for partisan purposes, which has become a recurring theme. There was certainly an effort to de-legitimize Trumps election to the presidency, and the argument was made by mainstream media mouthpieces, leveraging the expertise of deep-state spymasters. Hillary Clinton and Jimmy Carter both said that Trump was an illegitimate president, in response to media reporting on Russias meddling. This was the original stolen election theory, and its only been overshadowed because Trumps false contention that the 2020 election was stolen has subsequently received much more media coverage and much more vigorous pushback. Let me be perfectly clear: Trump should have never claimed that the 2020 election was stolen from him. But hes in good company. Look at the Democrats who said the same thing about 2016! And their main theory backing that up was Russian malfeasance something intelligence officials privately discounted, until they went to the White House and had a chat with outgoing President Obama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robbie Soave is co-host of The Hills commentary show Rising and a senior editor for Reason Magazine. This column is an edited transcription of his daily commentary. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Department of Homeland Security recently announced that travelers will no longer be required to remove their shoes when being screened through advanced imaging technology at airport security checkpoints. Since travelers who do not have a REAL ID to authenticate their identity are subject to greater security screening, they will almost certainly not be eligible. This change in policy was announced by the DHS secretary, not by the administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (the deputy administrator is currently serving as the acting administrator). The Senate has not approved a new administrator since David Pekoske was relieved of his duties by the president on Jan. 20, 2025. Given that some senators have called for the TSA to be abolished, such cacophony likely means that a new TSA administrator will not be named too soon. So why is this a problem? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TSA security gauntlet is an intricate system of layers, many of which are invisible to travelers. The most visible aspects are what is deployed at airport security checkpoints, including advanced imaging technologies for passenger screening and CT scanners for passenger baggage. Some of the less visible layers include federal air marshals deployed on certain flights, hardened airplane cockpit doors, and Secure Flight, which vets passengers prior to their flight. Risk-based security is the glue that ties all such layers together. It informs the use of security technologies and the creation of policies such that the air system can be maximally secured with minimal passenger inconvenience. Recall that after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001, all passengers were treated the same from a security perspective. Such a one-size-fits-all approach was expensive and inconvenient to passengers, with little evidence that it made the air system more secure. It was also unsustainable. This led to the creation of TSA PreCheck, which gives passengers access to expedited screening lanes, where they can keep their shoes on when being screened and keep their electronic devices in their carry-on bag. TSA Precheck passengers have voluntarily gone through a background check this is why they can be subjected to expedited, less intrusive physical screening at checkpoints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allowing passengers with a REAL ID to keep their shoes on when being screened is, in and of itself, not bad. It is always easier to tighten security procedures than to relax them. In practice, passengers may discover that when wearing certain types of footwear, like work or hiking boots, choosing to remove them voluntarily may end up saving them time, since the full body screener may flag them for additional screening, which will then require the footwear to be removed anyway. What is next in airport security? Belts are likely on the docket for consideration, although the same delays may occur if the full body scanners flag certain belts for additional screening. The one that is on most peoples minds is the liquid restriction. The United Kingdom relaxed its liquid policy at certain airports when it installed CT scanners for carry-on bags. The acting TSA administrator recently indicated that this policy would stay in place in the U.S. until around 2043, given the time needed to fully deploy CT scanners for carry-on bags at all U.S. airports. To confuse the issue further, the DHS secretary has now indicated that the liquid policy is up for discussion, provided the necessary guardrails remain in place to keep the system secure. Perhaps relaxing the liquid restriction for PreCheck passengers traveling from airports with CT scanners will be the next step forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most people would welcome this policy change. But what can be done to ensure that the systems security remains sufficiently robust? The answer is not promises from industry partners offering the newest and flashiest scanning technology to detect liquid explosives. It is, rather facial recognition. By requiring all passengers identity to be authenticated using facial recognition, this layer will fill in holes left by relaxing some physical screening procedures. Facial recognition at airport security checkpoints has been a lightning rod of controversy for some time. A group of senators have called for it to be paused, based on concerns about personal privacy and civil liberties. The Travelers Privacy Protection Act of 2025 would give anyone the right to opt out of facial recognition being used to authenticate their identity. If such an act becomes law, it would set airport security back by a decade, by locking airport security into its threat item-centric paradigm, rather than focusing on threatening people, which is where the greatest risks reside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the DHS intends to relax more of the security layers in place to protect the aviation system, ensuring that facial recognition continues to be a centerpiece of their strategy is critical. Putting a Senate-approved TSA administrator in place would also be important, to provide confidence that the collection of security layers being used is keeping the air system secure for all travelers. Sheldon H. Jacobson, Ph.D., is a computer science professor in the Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He has researched risk-based aviation security for over 25 years, which provided the technical justification for TSA PreCheck. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Since Donald Trump won the U.S. presidency eight months ago, several elections have reshaped the Western world from Poland last month, where National-conservative Karol Nawrocki won an upset victory, to Germany and Canada, which beat back ascendant right-wing parties. The popular media narrative framed these elections as more battles in the continued struggle between left and right, liberalism and conservatism, or in more partisan circles, fascist authoritarianism and progressive globalism. However, the real story has been largely missed in the U.S., where most politics is viewed through the Trump lens. Theres a monumental demographic shift occurring that Western governments and national institutions are not prepared for a sharp and potentially long-term shift to the right among the youngest voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Economic anxiety, fueled by resentment toward mass migration, is rising dramatically among younger voters, making governing without far-right parties nearly impossible, and in some cases, making the farthest-left European and Canadian parties irrelevant. In five of the most important recent national elections the U.S., Canada, Germany, Poland, and Portugal the youngest voters have swung dramatically in favor of right-wing parties reversing the traditional overwhelming alignment of young people with left-wing, progressive parties. If this unprecedented rightward trend continues, the identity of the West will be transformed for decades. In the U.S., voters under 30 shifted anywhere from 15 to 21 points toward Trump especially young men who swung by nearly double those numbers. They werent alone. Voters 30 to 44 years old also moved 8 points toward Trump since 2020 according to the Associated Press. Meanwhile, voting habits among Americans over 45 were statistically unchanged according to AP, while the Washington Post reported a 4-point shift toward Harris among the oldest cohort, seniors over 65 the only generation to move left. But are Americans an anomaly? Recent elections say no. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, right-wing candidate Karol Nawrocki won Polands presidential election, succeeding fellow populist Andrzej Duda. However, their routes to victory were very different. In 2021, Duda won with overwhelming support from voters 50+ and did not win a majority of voters under 50. Nawrocki however won majorities among voters 18 to 29 (53 percent), 30 to 44 (54 percent), and over-60 (51 percent) whereas his opponent Rafa Trzaskowski won majorities among those 45 to 54 (52 percent) and 50 to 59 (51 percent). In Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany doubled its overall vote share over the last four years, thanks in large part to a 14-point shift among voters 18 to 24 years old. It is now vying with the Left party as the most popular political party with young German voters. In Canada, the Liberals reversed an early 20-point Conservative polling lead and came out victorious by highlighting the 51st state taunts and tariffs coming from Trump. However, this message landed only with older voters, who reported the relationship with the U.S. as their top issue. Polling suggests that most younger voters actually favored the Conservatives and prioritized the economy and affordability. Canada even runs a student vote for those not of age to participate, and the Conservatives won it by 4 points. The trend goes even deeper. In Portugals 2025 legislative elections, the far-right party Chega, or Enough, founded in 2018, increased its vote share more than any other party, and now controls 60 seats in the national legislature. Chega is roughly tied with the center-right Democratic Alliance as the most popular party among young voters, securing a quarter of their vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And where has this youth shift not appeared? Denmark. According to a report from the BBC, Denmarks bipartisan coalition government has pioneered some of the most restrictive immigration laws in the EU, and while implementation and enforcement has varied, its rhetoric has been strong, contrarian, and unapologetic. The result? A neutered far-right unable to gain a significant foothold with young voters and experiencing no meaningful polling gains in 2025. The next year will bring more opportunities for far-right parties to potentially expand their inroads with younger voters in Norway, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, Sweden, and more, unless other parties begin seriously acting on young voters economic and immigration concerns. If this current trend continues, then a generational reshaping of the West is only a matter of time. Tom Rodriguez is a senior vice president and leading pollster at LSG, a Washington-based communications and public affairs firm. Advertisement 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. In June, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that hell ban social media for children under 15, stating, Platforms have the ability to verify age. Lets do it. Weve all seen what that verification actually looks like: Im over 18. One click, and youre in. This is how the internet currently protects minors. Its laughable, until you realize that this system is failing millions of children and teens every day. In the U.S., Federal Trade Commission Chair Andrew Ferguson also highlighted this profound inadequacy, calling simple date-of-birth entries little to no barrier for underage access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This admission from a top regulator underscores what many have long known: Current systems throughout the world are failing our children. The other extreme can be even worse. Platforms requiring actual age verification often demand personal documents and store them in databases that have become high-value targets for bad actors. In December, Signzy, a major know-your-customer provider, suffered a malware attack exposing customer data, including scans of IDs and selfie biometrics. Similarly, in January, a massive data breach at education technology provider PowerSchool compromised the sensitive information of 60 million students. Such events are clear indicators of systemic vulnerabilities. Exposing personal identifiable data could lead bad actors right to the doorstep of children, youth and family members, the exact opposite of what age verification requirements are supposed to accomplish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Todays age verification tools were not designed for the digital age. Applying financial-focused risk management procedures (like know-your-customer) to social platforms or gaming sites is invasive and dangerous. When sensitive documents are uploaded and stored on third-party servers, data breaches arent a matter of if, only when. For kids and families, this is unacceptable. For developers and platforms, it creates massive legal and regulatory challenges. For society, were missing an opportunity to implement real protection that respects privacy. Were caught in a false choice: either no protection at all or too much vulnerable surveillance. But we no longer have to choose between these two failures. Zero-knowledge identity protocols remove this mutual exclusivity with enhanced security, privacy and user experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zero-knowledge cryptographic technology allows someone to prove something is true without revealing the underlying information. Think of it as showing youre old enough to enter a venue without showing your ID or revealing your name. The mathematical proof confirms that you meet the requirement. This approach enables users to cryptographically prove their age without exposing other sensitive information. For instance, they can confirm they are over 18 without revealing their exact birthdate or other identifiable features beyond whats necessary. The process generally involves a few key stages. Initially, a user interacts with their government-issued ID through a secure application, often on a smartphone. This interaction permits the extraction of necessary data directly from the documents secure elements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next, a cryptographic proof is generated. This proof is a mathematical assertion that the user meets a specific age criterion (e.g., over 18). Crucially, this proof contains no personally identifiable information itself; it only confirms the truth of the age claim. This privacy-preserving proof can then be shared with an online service or platform. The platform verifies the proofs authenticity and validity using cryptographic techniques, confirming the users age qualification without ever accessing or storing the underlying personal data from the ID. The platform learns only if the user is old enough. Major tech companies are already recognizing the potential. Google announced that its integrating zero-knowledge proof technology into Google Wallet for age verification, with partners like Bumble already on board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Developers can integrate zero-knowledge age verification into their applications through open-source libraries and verification contracts. These systems check the cryptographic proof and confirm whether a user meets the defined minimum age threshold, all without storing or even seeing the users full identity. The programmability of these systems is crucial for global deployment. Zero-knowledge protocols can automatically adjust to local regulations (e.g., age 16, 18 or 21) while maintaining the same privacy guarantees. Consider how this technology transforms real-world platforms. Gaming sites verify users meet age requirements without collecting ID copies. Dating apps confirm users real ages without accessing other personal information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Content platforms gate mature content based on cryptographic proof rather than self-reported information or vulnerable document storage. This is privacy-first protection, enforceable by code and leveraging proven cryptographic technologies. Users maintain full control over their information, choosing what to disclose in each online interaction. We shouldnt accept that verifying a childs age online requires sacrificing privacy, or that doing nothing is acceptable either. The regulatory landscape is already shifting. New Yorks SAFE for Kids Act began requiring platforms to use age determination technology and restrict addictive feeds to minors without parental consent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other legislation, like the federal Take It Down Act and state-level App Store accountability acts, also signals a move towards stricter online safety, though some raise privacy concerns about mass data collection. Current age verification methods are also proving unreliable. The United Kingdoms Office of Communications recently fined OnlyFans operator Fenix International approximately $1.4 million for providing inaccurate information about its age verification, highlighting how even advanced biometric systems can fail. As legislation aimed at protecting minors online continues to evolve, the technology industry should lead by example. We can protect vulnerable users without exposing their most sensitive information to bad actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can continue with systems that either dont work or create massive privacy risks, or we can embrace cryptographic solutions that protect both children and privacy. Platforms now have access to privacy-preserving tools that respect both user autonomy and legal responsibility. Theres no excuse not to build better. Parents deserve peace of mind, kids deserve safety and we all deserve a more thoughtful internet. With increasing regulatory scrutiny and growing public demand for better protections, the impetus to shift away from ineffective checkboxes and invasive data collection toward genuinely workable solutions is clear: It is time to move on from the checkbox era. Rene Reinsberg is an entrepreneur who has co-founded multiple ventures including Celo, Self and Locu (acquired by GoDaddy). Jane Khodarkovsky is a former trial attorney and human trafficking finance specialist in the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Criminal Division, in the U.S. Department of Justice. She is currently a partner at Arktouros. Advertisement 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. Protesters raise signs that read "fight ignorance not immigrants" and "uncodumented hands feed you" at a May Day celebration in Salem on Thursday, May 1, 2025. (Alan Cohen/Salem Reporter) Para leer esta historia en espanol, haga clic aqui. Threatening to call federal immigration authorities on employees after they raised concerns about their working conditions is considered illegal retaliation, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries is warning employers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon law prohibits employers from discriminating or retaliating against workers because of their national origin, which includes actions that target workers based on their immigration status, ethnicity, language, ancestry or cultural traits. While the federal government is cracking down on immigration enforcement across the country, the state of Oregon has policies protecting people living and working in Oregon regardless of their immigration status. State agencies including the labor bureau and Department of Justice have pledged to take aggressive action to enforce the law in these cases. The agency did not immediately specify how many complaints it received involving threats to call Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. Intimidating and silencing workers who simply want to be treated fairly by threatening or actually calling immigration officials on them is one of the most egregious forms of retaliation, agency commissioner Christina Stephenson said in a July 16 statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephenson said the bureau will prioritize cases where employees have faced this type of retaliation and use every enforcement tool to make sure employers are held accountable. Reyna Lopez, the executive director of Oregons farmworker union Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste, also known as PCUN said the organization is grateful to have a state labor industry that stands firm against retaliation. For too long, employers have weaponized the fear of deportation to silence workers speaking out against unsafe, unjust and illegal conditions, Lopez said. This conduct has only grown worse under the federal administrations aggressive deportation policies. Although Oregon is a sanctuary state meaning state and local law enforcement cannot help federal authorities with immigration enforcement some industries in Oregon are still feeling the impacts of the federal governments immigration crackdown. In The Dalles, fears of ICE raids led to a 50% drop in available cherry-picking workers, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late May, Gov. Tina Kotek signed a law prohibiting landlords from asking tenants about their immigration status and prohibiting them from disclosing or threatening to disclose an applicants or tenants immigration status. The law took effect immediately, and Oregon joined Washington, California and New York in having similar immigration-related tenant protections. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang at the groundbreaking of the Jen-Hsun Huang and Lori Mills Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex at Oregon State University on April 13, 2024. The center, created with $50 million from Huang and more than $70 million from the state, will employ a Nvidia supercomputer. (Photo courtesy of Oregon State University) Months after Oregon signed an agreement with the computer chip company Nvidia to educate K-12 and college students about artificial intelligence, details about how AI concepts and AI literacy will be taught to children as young as 5 remain unclear. An April agreement signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, Higher Education Coordinating Commission Executive Director Ben Cannon and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, directs $10 million of state money be spent on expanding access to AI education and career opportunities in colleges and schools in partnership with Nvidia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the agreement encompassing K-12 schools, questions and requests for comment on the deal from the Oregon Department of Education went unanswered. A spokesperson for the Oregon Education Association, the states largest teachers union, did not provide comment on the agreement with Nvidia but sent a 2024 group resolution on artificial intelligence that states that the use of AI tools should be transparent in schools, that data security and privacy should be a priority and that teachers should be trained in use of the tools. Cannon said in a statement that the agreement will position Oregon higher education institutions and workforce training providers to lead in preparing students for responsible application of AI and cutting-edge technologies needed in Oregon. California-based Nvidia is the worlds largest supplier of computing chips used for artificial intelligence systems processing, and Huang has deep Oregon connections as a graduate of Aloha High School and Oregon State University. Huang recently donated $50 million to develop a supercomputing research center at the university, which in 2023 also got more than $70 million in state taxpayer funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nvidia chips are used in generative AI systems like ChatGPT that are trained on troves of text and data taken from the internet and used to provide text, image or other outputs based on user prompts. The system has drawn the ire of many teachers and college professors, who see it being used deceptively by students to do their research and writing work for them. Many writers and publishers also distrust AI tools that take their work from the internet without pay or credit and use it to train the AI systems. But as such AI tools gain users, theres a growing push to teach younger and younger students in the countrys public schools and colleges about how they work, and how they could be applied in an increasingly technocentric future. Fast moving Just a week after Kotek signed the agreement with Nvidia, President Donald Trump issued an executive order advancing artificial intelligence education for American youth by establishing an artificial intelligence education task force. Such announcements reveal a clear concern from politicians without investing in AI education, Oregonians and Americans will be uncompetitive for the jobs of the future and get left behind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nvidia is collaborating with the state of Oregon on workforce training and upskilling to address the rapidly growing demand for AI skills, foster economic growth, and ensure Oregons workforce remains competitive in the evolving tech landscape, Nvidia spokesperson Liz Archibald said in an email. Oregons agreement with Nvidia followed one made with California in August 2024 that is specific to higher education and job training. After Kotek signed Oregons agreement, Mississippi and Utah also signed agreements. According to Oregons agreement, college faculty will be able to train to become Nvidia ambassadors on campus, and the Oregon Department of Education will work with Nvidia and K-12 schools to introduce foundational AI concepts. The MOU is intended to be broad and inclusive of Oregons workforce and training education ecosystem which includes K-12 education so Oregon can train and prepare students for high-paying jobs in a fast moving, crucial industry, Kotek spokesperson Roxy Mayer said in an email. Applications unknown The agreement does not offer a lot of granularity about how AI lessons, concepts, ethics and literacy will be integrated into K-12 and college classrooms. It lists a number of industries that would be engaged and positively impacted, including renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, microelectronics and manufacturing specifically, semiconductor design and manufacturing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archibald, the company spokesperson, said that Nvidia will first focus on the university ecosystem. There are more than 600 Nvidia ambassadors at college campuses in the U.S. and abroad, according to the company. Faculty can get certified via a company training that then allows them to teach advanced AI and machine learning technologies. Thats how well see new startups, new research breakthroughs and a workforce ready for the AI era, Archibald wrote. A key metric of success for the private-public partnership is the number of ambassadors that colleges eventually have on their campuses. It is, Mayer of the governors office confirmed, the first time a corporation has gotten the states higher education agency to agree to promote its own company ambassadors on college campuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We reject the premise that the company has coerced the state into allowing corporate actors onto college campuses to promote their company, Mayer said. Kotek in 2023 established an AI advisory council, meant to analyze potential benefits and risks of broader AI adoption in state government and agencies. The council shared its action plan in February, which included establishing a roadmap for AI integration grounded in protecting government ethics, privacy and security. But the Higher Education Coordinating Commission lacks any such framework or guidance for colleges and universities. Oregons department of education was among the first in the U.S. to offer guidance to K-12 schools in 2023. Agencies in at least 28 states and the District of Columbia have issued guidance on the use of artificial intelligence in K-12 schools since. Because there is no existing law regarding the use of AI in schools, ODEs role is to provide guidance and support to school districts not requirements, spokesperson Liz Merah wrote. Many of those guidelines are similar to media literacy guidelines, including teaching students to recognize biases, inaccuracies and plagiarism and understand copyright and licensing rights. Risks and rewards Shiyan Jiang, an assistant professor at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who researches how AI concepts are being taught to students in K-12 schools, said theres a lot of variation in how schools and teachers handle that instruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is this huge gap in terms of how prepared different states are in terms of bringing topics to classrooms, she said. Its important to have a common ground so students in Pennsylvania have the same knowledge to bring to arguments and conversations about the application of AI as students in California, she said. No matter what kind of attitude we have towards AI, I think that its good for us to have some kind of foundation knowledge about it, so that we can make solid arguments and think deeply about how we can or cannot better leverage these tools, she said. Tom Mullaney, a former public school history teacher and ed tech consultant who writes the Critical Inkling blog about tech applications in classrooms, said an agreement like the one Oregon is entering into with Nvidia leaves more questions than answers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we talk about education and generative AI, is Nvidia an unbiased source for that? They have a lot invested in you and I thinking that generative AI is going to transform everything from education to employment. Are they an unbiased source for education for children? he said. I think that if this is to be brought into schools, it should be done by people who are willing to be critical, or at least hear and understand critical perspectives. It should not be done by those with a financial interest in you being enamored of generative AI. Mullaney pointed to startups in the AI and education space like the company School AI, that provides teachers and students with chatbots that imitate historical figures and AI-generated imagery of figures such as Anne Frank and George Washington Carver. For reasons of consent, of creepiness, of a white, male-dominated industry voicing people from marginalized populations, I mean theres a lot of reasons not to use generative AI as a guest speaker, he said. Jiang said the best case scenario for AI in schools is that students at least learn enough AI literacy, including concepts, and ethical implications of AI applications, that they can participate as an active agent in conversations and development of a future that includes AI, not just as a passive consumer of AI tools developed by others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mullaney said what most students need is media literacy, not AI literacy. Students should be able to understand the quality of different source material and if an image is real or made by an AI program, he explained. We dont need to be teaching students about being excited for generative AI. We need to teach students to be critical thinkers. Thats what we need, and thats what Im not seeing, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Republican Rep. Kevin Mannix of Salem sits on the House floor at the Oregon state Capitol in Salem on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. He has filed to propose two November 2026 ballot initiatives for the state of Oregon. (Amanda Loman/Oregon Capital Chronicle) After failing to muster support in the Oregon Legislature, state Rep. Kevin Mannix, R-Salem, has set his sights on the ballot box with two proposed November 2026 initiatives that would tighten restrictions on Oregons pretrial release program and end the states estate tax. Mannix and members of his Salem-based law firm filed the initiatives with Oregons Secretary of State earlier this month, calling them the Oregon Crimefighting Act and the End the Death Tax Act. Its far from the first time the Republican lawmaker, who has led five successful past ballot measures, has turned to voters to try to enact laws the Legislature wont pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite failing to gain signatures for a similar anti-crime measure in the 2024 election cycle, Mannix was the key architect of Oregons Measure 11, the sentencing law voters passed in 1994 to crack down on crime by enacting minimum penalties, such as more than six years for rape in the second degree. But after years of legislative efforts to reduce incarceration, Mannix argues defendants accused of far too serious crimes have been allowed release before trial, clearing defendants to skip trials and flee the area with no chance for victims to achieve justice. He also says a bill passed in 2021 under the guise of bail reform that state officials are currently studying has exacerbated the problem. The public is fed up, and the law enforcement who are handling this stuff at the street level are fed up, Mannix told the Capital Chronicle. I think this is a good situation to take the case to the public and say, We should not have catch and release. The other measure Mannix filed comes after an unsuccessful push by legislative Republicans to raise Oregons estate tax exemption to $7 million from $1 million, currently the nations lowest. The state collected more than $338 million in estate taxes in 2024, up from just under $300 million in 2023, according to data from the Legislative Revenue Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His petition calls for eliminating the tax altogether. I took a look at the atmosphere and kept hearing some of the leadership saying, Well, this all has to be revenue neutral, he said. No, this is a bad policy, and it needs to be reformed. The initiatives will need an initial 1,000 signatures from voters for a petition before Mannix and his fellow petitioners can receive a drafted ballot title from the state attorney generals office. They would then need to receive 117,173 signatures from Oregon voters to make it onto the ballot, making up the required 6% of the total votes cast for governor in the most recent election. Pretrial release reform aims to give judges control Both the state and Mannix agree that giving courts the ability to decide on a case-by-case basis whether and how to release a defendant before trial is a good thing. But they appear to disagree about when that decision should be led by a pretrial release officer or if a judge should be required to make decisions about the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research shows that the charge a defendant is facing has little influence on whether they will engage in misconduct during pretrial release, said Kris Henning, professor of criminology and criminal justice at Portland State University. That includes fleeing or breaking the terms of a supervised release, but also committing a crime again. He added that other factors such as arrest and conviction history or prior no-shows play a larger role in those issues occurring. There is a growing body of research that shows jailing people while they await trial may create more problems than it solves, he wrote in an email. But the state argues that its approach is working on the whole. The Oregon Judicial Departments data shows modestly declining rates of people missing their court dates in the past few years, according to spokesperson Todd Sprague, who pointed to charts showing a rise of individuals in the court system who have yet to receive failure to appear notices. Lawmakers implemented the system Mannix is seeking to undo through 2021s Senate Bill 48, among a slate of laws overhauling the states criminal justice system in the wake of George Floyds murder in Minnesota and months of protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law sought to reduce the states reliance on monetary bail by requiring risk-based assessments and allowing more people to be released on their own recognizance, or by giving their word that theyll return to court. The law allows judges to set conditions on release for people who committed certain felonies, while more serious crimes require people to be held in jail before arraignment. Mannix has not been tracking specific incidents, but he said he has heard from law enforcement who have become discouraged to book and arrest people committing crimes they know defendants will be released for. His proposal would designate all felonies and serious misdemeanors like reckless driving and fourth-degree assault as serious crime that would require arraignment in front of a judge. They could consider the risk to public safety and the individual defendants circumstances when it comes to release. For what I call the medium-level crimes and the low-level crimes and many serious felonies which were not violent, such as burglary and auto theft and identity theft, the Legislative Assembly sort of took a dive, Mannix said. Estate tax elimination Mannix is also championing an initiative to phase out the estate tax, which he defines as a death tax, as first reported by the Oregon Journalism Project. The Salem lawyer is proposing that the state end estate taxes for anyone who dies after Jan. 1, 2027. Oregon voters rejected a similar ballot measure aimed at phasing out the estate tax in 2012. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon is one of 12 states that tax estates above a certain threshold, meaning Oregonians who die with more than $1 million in assets have 10% to 16% withheld for taxes before money can be transferred to their heirs. The federal government also levies an estate tax. Oregons estate tax exemption on assets is the lowest in the nation, second to Rhode Island at around $1.8 million. Mannix and other Republican legislators introduced House Bill 2301, which would have increased assets exempt from the tax from $1 million to $7 million and lowered the existing scale of 10% to 16% to an overall 7% tax. But the bill pitted business and industry groups against advocates like the Portland-based Oregon Center for Public Policy, who argued it could imperil public service and do away with a necessary tax on the wealthiest Oregonians. Another bipartisan bill involving the estate tax, House Bill 3934, would have brought Oregon in line with 11 other states in allowing widowed spouses to benefit from their partners estate tax exemptions, but it also failed to pass. Seeing no traction, the question is, how much longer do we keep trying to raise this issue? Mannix said. Lets take the philosophical issue to the voters. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Time for China, EU to broaden consensus on navigating next 50 years of relations Xinhua) 08:16, July 23, 2025 BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua)-- The upcoming China-EU Summit presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the experience and insights gained from 50 years of bilateral ties. It offers a platform to build consensus and chart a stable and healthy path forward that benefits both sides and the world. The summit comes at a time when geopolitical tensions, protectionism and unilateralism are increasingly fragmenting global relations. Furthermore, China-EU relations are at a critical juncture, presenting opportunities for deepening pragmatic cooperation while also highlighting the need for strengthened strategic communication to address global challenges and effectively manage differences. In this context, there is hope that the meeting will convey clear and positive messages to advance win-win cooperation based on mutual respect and openness. The summit aims to chart a course for the next 50 years of bilateral relations, safeguard free trade and multilateralism, and provide certainty and positive energy in a world facing mounting challenges. The past half century has witnessed remarkable developments of China-EU cooperation. The bilateral trade volume of goods increased from 2.4 billion U.S. dollars in 1975 to 785.8 billion dollars in 2024. Two-way investment stock has grown from nearly zero to 260 billion dollars. China and the EU are each other's second-largest trading partners, with economic complementarity being a key feature of their cooperation. China-EU cooperation serves as a prime example of mutually beneficial cooperation in the era of economic globalization, despite differences in history, culture, social systems and development stages. Airbus illustrates this partnership well. Since entering the Chinese mainland market 40 years ago, the European aircraft manufacturer has seen its market share in China grow to more than 50 percent. In 2003, China and the EU established a comprehensive strategic partnership. They have established over 70 consultation and dialogue mechanisms that cover various fields such as politics, economy and trade, humanities, science and technology, energy, and the environment. Additionally, the two sides have increased cooperation in the areas of digital and green transition. Some valuable experience for comprehensive development includes the commitments to mutual respect, mutually beneficial cooperation, and free trade. These principles are the cornerstones of future China-EU ties, which is among the most influential relations worldwide. Fruitful China-EU cooperation has contributed to the development and progress of both sides, delivering tangible benefits for nearly two billion people in China and the EU, and greatly promoted world peace and development. However, in recent years, the bilateral relationship has faced difficulties and challenges, due to various frictions and differences on issues like trade. This has been particularly evident since the EU adopted a "partner-competitor-systemic rival" framework for characterizing bilateral relations in 2019. Some describe the EU's positioning of China as akin to having all traffic lights (green, yellow and red) on at the same time. This approach not only fails to direct traffic, but will inevitably cause disruption. Chinese culture holds that complaining about others will not lead to self-improvement. Given the scale of bilateral trade and the growing competitiveness of some of China's industries, it is natural for some differences and frictions to arise. Solutions lie in dialogue and consultation. The EU side has expressed concerns about its trade deficit with China. Yet, a thorough examination of the trade imbalance reveals that the situation is more complex than the deficit figure suggests. Three facts offer different perspectives. Firstly, the EU has long enjoyed a surplus in services trade with China. Secondly, it restricts the export of high-tech products to China. Thirdly, over one-third of exports from EU companies in China are sold to Europe, which means European companies get many of the benefits of the trade surplus. There is no fundamental conflict of interests between China and the EU, but rather extensive common interests. Greater benefits will only come from partnership rather than rivalry. Bilateral cooperation was not -- and will never be -- a zero-sum game. To truly understand China-EU relations, it is important to hold a long-term, strategic and comprehensive perspective. The world is currently experiencing significant turbulence and change. As China and the EU prepare for the next 50 years of cooperation, it is particularly important to reflect on and adhere to the original aspirations that guided the establishment of bilateral relations. This includes promoting values such as mutual benefit, solving problems through consultations, and opposing hegemony. By learning from the past, the 25th China-EU Summit on Thursday should rise above differences and pool consensus to open up a new chapter of bilateral relations. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) ORLAND PARK, Ill. The Orland Park DMV has been given 90 days to vacate its current location after Orland Township trustees voted to close the facility, which will leave residents traveling to places like Joliet for the next closest facility. The decision has received backlash from both community members and public officials, including Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. The safety issue, the complete abrogation, I think, of fiscal responsibility, Frank Williams, Orland Township Trustee, said when listing the reasons he voted for the closure of the DMV located on 149th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams says the vote wasnt about pushing the DMV out of the community entirely. Our vote last night was not to kick them out of Orland Township, not out of Orland Park, Tinley Park, or Orland Hills. We want them to stay, Williams said. And we are very eager to help them find a new location. But its not going to be for free. Currently, the Secretary of States office rents the 1,100-square-foot space for just $1 a year. Williams says the facility has outgrown the space, citing congestion in the parking lot that is shared with township offices. Because of the DMV being here, our seniors come here and theres no place for them to park, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orland Township Supervisor Paul OGrady opposed the measure and said the issue came out of left field. I thought it was just the beginning of the discussion, not the end of it, OGrady said. Instead of you three deciding whats best for the 90,000 people in Orland Township, lets put it to a vote. Lets put an advisory question on the ballot in March. Giannoulias also weighed in on social media, calling the decision a huge disservice and noting it was made without providing notice or a consultation with Secretary of State staff. The DMV serves more than 6,000 people a year, according to the Village Supervisor. Within the next 90 days, some trustees hope to work with the Secretary of States office to keep the facility in the area. Advertisement 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. Ottawa County commissioners Jacob Bonnema, left, and Josh Brugger listen to county administrator candidate Michael Tremblay on June 12. [ONN photo/Cathy Seaver] This story was originally published by Ottawa News Network. OTTAWA COUNTY The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners is tackling some of the biggest priorities identified by candidates and voters during last years campaign cycle, namely finding its next administrator and changing the countys motto. Administrator search The county quietly relaunched the search for its next permanent administrator on July 16 after a previous effort failed to produce more than one finalist to interview and the search firm hired by the county withdrew from its contract June 19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a regular meeting on June 24, the 11-member board opted to delay relaunching the search, with the goal of regrouping and having a new chief administrative officer for the county by September. I know all of sudden, summers (upon) us. I believe that people have more things to do than sit in this room every day of the week and try to resolve this, Interim Administrator Gary Rosema said at the June 24 meeting. I think that would give us some additional time to put some things together (and) get past the summer months. (County) employees, the commissioners and the candidates all have families, they all have things they want to do that they planned for. So, I recommended to (Board Chairman) John (Teeples), lets get to September, Rosema continued. By then, people are back to sitting down and looking at a few things. Based on what I shared, I think theres some opportunities by mid-September to be sitting here, and either the board or maybe a committee will have a slate of people they want to bring forward, and we just get it done. How we got here In March, commissioners selected Brighton-based Double Haul Solutions as their search firm for the permanent administrator role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision came after the position was vacated for a fourth time in December after interim administrator Ben Wetmore was given a severance agreement by the previous board which has since been challenged in court . Wetmore, who began his short-lived stint as deputy county administrator in November 2023, was appointed by the OI majority in October after previous interim administrator Jon Anderson resigned for the second time in two months after he lost the Republican primary race for county sheriff. Wetmore was selected without a formal search process. Vice Chair Josh Brugger, left, and Chair John Teeples oversee a February board of commissioners meeting. [ONN photo/Cathy Seaver] Anderson, himself, replaced former permanent administrator John Gibbs, who was fired in late February 2023 after a falling out with the OI majority. Anderson was selected without a formal search process. Gibbs sued and later settled with the county for $190,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gibbs replaced previous permanent administrator John Shay, who the OI-led board abruptly fired on Jan. 3, 2023, the day they were sworn in. Shay was promoted from deputy administrator in March 2022. The former Ottawa Impact majority, a far-right political group, attempted to fill the full-time position after Anderson resigned, and while Wetmore served as interim. County Commissioner Joe Moss, center, speaks during a February board meeting. Commissioners Jordan Jorritsma, left, and Allison Miedema listen in the background. [ONN photo/Cathy Seaver] The process, however, faced scrutiny after former board Chair Joe Moss hand-picked the search firm without a formal process and created an executive search committee composed of five OI commissioners, two of whom had lost their Republican primaries in August. Ultimately, the process resulted in all candidates backing out. New goals in 2025 When the new board was seated in January 2025, the search for the next administrator was a top goal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite championing the hire of three administrators without public searches during his time as chair, Commissioner Joe Moss, former OI majority leader, said the board had an obligation to promote transparency. What is the principle that were trying to look for? And one of the principles I think of is government information should be public and transparent, Moss said. When the board is looking at one of the most important decisions of this term, I ask where do we place the priority? Do we keep the names of people who applied to lead Ottawa County secret? Do we keep it hidden, or do we let the public know? He pointed to the one search process the OI-led board conducted in September 2024, lauding it as an example of how to do it right, despite the outcome not yielding a new administrator. We went through a highly transparent process where all of the applicants were put into the packet and done publicly last year. And it went, it went pretty well up until the end, right? Moss said. I preferred the balance of transparency, and one of the reasons is because we got information and comments from the community. So one thing that Im definitely concerned about is not having comments or input from people outside this board. I wonder why it has to be done in secret, and it gives me concern that without the transparency, we will make the wrong decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im surprised if you actually believe that, board Chair John Teeples said, because you cannot gather a quality pool of candidates if they dont have the opportunity to inquire about an opening knowing that were not going to disrupt their life unless it gets to the point that they be considered a finalist. Commissioner Allison Miedema listens during a February meeting. [ONN photo/Cathy Seaver] Whats happening now After the Ottawa Impact majority was voted out in November 2024, a new moderate Republican majority assumed control at the beginning of 2025. The board, now seven months into a new four-year term, has set the identification of the new administrator as its top goal for 2025. In the last search launched in March, the board ultimately advanced the top five recommended candidates from Double Haul, however, two of them dropped out without being publicly named. The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners interviewed Michael Tremblay, a retired U.S. Army officer, on June 12, however, commissioners chose to suspend the process for two weeks to regroup. [ONN photo/Cathy Seaver] Just days later, two more candidates withdrew and commissioners were faced with a choice: interview the sole remaining candidate or call off the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, the board opted to interview Michael Tremblay, a retired U.S. Army officer and two-time Brigade Commander with over 20 years of executive leadership, on June 12, however, commissioners chose to suspend the process for two weeks to regroup. The decision to drop out by Double Haul came the following day, according to county officials. What comes next? The renewed job posting calls for someone who is apolitical and can ensure stability, and accountability across departments, while continuing to build trust within the community. The next administrator will be expected to lead with integrity and independence, bringing clarity, strategic direction, and an apolitical, collaborative spirit to the organization, the county said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interested and qualified individuals can learn more at apply online. at miOttawa.org. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Aug. 11. The county plans to pay its next administrator between $220,000 and $260,00 an increase from the $210,000 paid to the countys previous two administrators, John Gibbs and John Shay. Teeples previously told ONN that the county wants to get it right rather than get it done quickly. Teeples said the board likely will proceed without Double Hall. Were not in a hurry, Teeples said. Lets just do this right. I think thats everybodys view. Teeples refrained from ascribing blame to the failed search earlier this year, saying his Ottawa Impact peers are not to blame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope to avoid any more conflict with too much of this stuff, but Ill be honest with you, I think one of the four candidates sounds like he backed away because of what he saw at the board meeting last week. The other three had other reasons that had nothing to do with Ottawa Impact, Teeples said. Others in the new moderate Republican majority have hinted that the previous search could have had a different outcome if OI commissioners had cooperated at a June 4 meeting where the board attempted to go into closed session to discuss each members preferred candidates from a pool of nearly 40. In that meeting, the board failed to meet the required two-thirds vote to go into closed session because all four OI commissioners voted against the move, citing transparency concerns. Our process stalled during a special meeting on June 4 when a minority of commissioners were able to block the board from going into closed session, Commissioner Jim Barry, a moderate Republican, said in an update to constituents this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purpose of going (in)to closed session was to be able to have (a) frank discussion about the applicants. The goal was to reduce the pool of 39 candidates to a handful of finalists we would bring in for public interviews. Protecting the confidentiality of applicants until the finalist stage is legal, customary and was asked for by the applicants as a common courtesy for their families and current employers. The minority of commissioners wanted to discuss all 39 candidates in open session, Barry said. Barry said, although hes disappointed that a new administrator has yet to be hired, its more important to get this right than meet a self-imposed deadline. Barry said 22 of the initial pool of 39 candidates have said they would like to still be considered for the position. That group will be pooled with any new candidates who submit applications by Aug. 11. My hope is all of our commissioners can come together and work out our priorities for what were looking for in our next Ottawa County administrator, he said. Barry said Rosema and Interim Deputy Administrator Ron Frantz have agreed to stay on with the county until the process is complete, and that public interviews could take place by the end of the third quarter, which includes August and September. A gay Vermont school superintendent says he was detained, separated from his husband, and subjected to hours of abusive questioning in Texas by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers while returning from a trip to Nicaragua this week in an incident his local school board condemned as inhumane, unjust, and deeply disturbing. Wilmer Chavarria, a U.S. citizen and superintendent of the Winooski School District, says he was held for more than five hours at Houstons George Bush Intercontinental Airport on Monday. Chavarria and his husband, Essex High School teacher Cyrus Dudgeon, were returning from visiting family in Nicaragua when they were stopped during Global Entry processing. Only Chavarria was detained. Seven Days Vermont reports that in a message to district leaders, Chavarria said officers seized his phone and laptop, denied him access to counsel, and interrogated him in four separate rooms. CBP agents allegedly cast doubt on his citizenship, questioned the legitimacy of his 15-year relationship, and challenged his employment status. His husband was not detained. They falsely stated that I, a U.S. citizen, have no constitutional rights at a point of entry, and officers became increasingly agitated as I continued to assert my rights regardless, Chavarria wrote. He described the experience as nothing short of surreal and the definition of psychological terror. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with Vermont CBS affiliate WCAX, Chavarria said CBP agents attempted to access his school-issued computer, which contains sensitive student data. He refused to provide his passwords without consulting the districts legal counsel. I continued to ask for a lawyer, at least to ask the district lawyer to give me the go-ahead to provide that information, and they continued to refuse, he told the station. Chavarria said he was also asked about the sincerity of his marriage and whether he was truly a superintendent. He said he believes his detention was politically motivated. Ive been very vocal and a big advocate for the protection of vulnerable communities in the state of Vermont and the nation, he told WCAX. Im in a very critical and visible position, and Im not surprised when things like this happen. He warned that its going to get worse if people dont mobilize quickly.Chavarria, who was born in a Honduran refugee camp and grew up in Nicaragua, came to the U.S. as a student and became a citizen in 2018. He holds two masters degrees, including one from Harvard University. He has led the Vermont school district since 2023. The Winooski School Board released a statement Tuesday, standing firmly behind Chavarria and calling on elected officials to investigate. Despite being a United States citizen, Superintendent Chavarria was separated from his husband and treated in a manner that is deeply disturbing and unacceptable, the board wrote. Superintendent Chavarria is an exemplary leader and a beloved member of the Winooski School District community. His commitment to our students, families, and staff is unwavering. While we are aware that such detentions are increasingly becoming more common across the country, we must be clear: this is not normal. It is wrong. It is inhumane. It is unjust, the statement continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven Days Vermont, which first reported the story, noted that Chavarria had never experienced this kind of treatment before, not while traveling on a student visa, nor as a green card holder, nor as a naturalized citizen. You think its less likely to happen when youre a full U.S. citizen, he said. Thats why I was so shaken by the whole thing. On Tuesday morning, just before boarding a flight home to Vermont, Chavarria received an email notice from CBP informing him that his previously approved Global Entry status had been revoked, without justification. Rep. Becca Balint, the first out LGBTQ+ member of Congress from Vermont, was not immediately available for an interview, but a spokesperson directed The Advocate to a speech she delivered on the House floor Tuesday evening. I take to the floor today because Im angry, and so are Vermonters, Balint said. We are furious because of what happened yesterday to a Vermonter, a U.S. citizen, as he attempted to return home. Wilmer Chavarria is a community leader. He is a school superintendent in my state. He was held and interrogated for hours by CBP agents and given no reason for his detainment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Balint added: Wilmer called the experience psychological terror. Again, we are talking about a U.S. citizen here. So when we say this can happen to any of us, this is what were talking about. this kind of violation of our constitutional rights is how leaders use terror to intimidate us into silence. When community leaders, school superintendents, are being detained because of the color of their skin and the sound of their last name, she continued, we need to hold onto our collective outrage. We do not need to accept this. This is not what Americans want. In response to The Advocates request for comment, a CBP spokesperson did not address Chavarrias case directly but said that every traveler entering the United States is subject to inspection, which CBP considers essential to safeguarding national security. CBP officers treat all travelers with integrity, respect, professionalism, and according to law, the agency said. The spokesperson added that searches of electronic devices are rare, highly regulated, and have been used in identifying and combating serious crimes, and that travelers are required to present electronic devices in a condition that allows examination. While U.S. citizens will not be denied entry for refusing to unlock their devices, their property may be detained or excluded, and processing times may be increased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CBP emphasized that passcodes are destroyed once no longer needed and may not be used to access remotely stored information. This article originally appeared on Advocate: Outrage after border agents subject detained gay Vermont superintendent to hours of psychological terror RELATED Theres an active recall on over 100,000 ice cream bars sold in 23 states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is due to a potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The products impacted are the following flavors of Richs Ice Cream bars: Chocolate Crunch Cake Bar, Strawberry Shortcake Bar, Rich Bar, Crumbled Cookie Bar, Orange Cream Bar, Fudge Frenzy Bar, Cotton Candy Twirl Bar, Savagely Sour Blue Raspberry Bar, Savagely Sour Cherry Bar and Cool Watermelon Bar. The packaging of these bars contain lot numbers "24351" through "25156." The recalled ice cream was distributed and sold to wholesalers in Nassau, Bahamas, as well as the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check your freezer ASAP for the recalled ice cream, and if you have an affected bar on hand, dispose of it or return it to your place of purchase for a possible refund. This recall was recently classified as a Class II recall, meaning that the recalled food "may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences." While there are no cases currently connected to this recall, Listeria infection (listeriosis) can lead to serious illness for young children and those who are age 65 or older, immunocompromised or pregnant. Common symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and they usually last for one to three days. Talk to a healthcare professional if you are showing signs of foodborne illness after eating one of the recalled ice cream bars. For questions about this recall, contact the FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332). Read the original article on EATINGWELL SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) Officials have released the name of the victim killed in a Tyler stabbing on Wednesday morning. According to the Smith County Sheriffs Office, around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, deputies responded to a stabbing at a house in the 4500 block of Lucky Avenue, where a person was found dead inside. AFFIDAVIT: East Texas fire chief accused of stealing $49k, fails to start construction project Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials identified the victim as Seth Ford Stone, 42 of Tyler, and an autopsy has been ordered. His body was transported to the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas. Kenneth Maison Homan, courtesy of Smith County Sheriffs Office The suspect, Kenneth Maison Homan, 38 of Tyler, was arrested for murder. He is being booked into the Smith County Jail on a $1 million bond. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement 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 KETK.com | FOX51.com. Jul. 23Sitting at a coffee table near the back of High Country Furniture and Design's Waynesville showroom, Jake Ballard buzzed with energy. That could be the caffeine Ballard is sleep deprived as only a new father can be (his son was born about a month ago). But the energy could also be the surge that comes with embarking on a new venture. Along with his business partner Kyle Robins, Ballard is the new owner of High Country the decades-old furniture and interior-design business with locations in Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Hendersonville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Founded by Anne Worrell in 1999 and later led by her son Chuck Worrell, the store is known for upscale furniture that walks a delicate line between rustic and sophisticated. That's a balance the new owners are hoping to keep, along with all the other things that have made High Country such a mainstay. "It has a great family culture," Ballard said by way of example. "If a customer wants to talk to the owner, I'm going to be available." Ballard also highlighted the High Country's signature style as a foundational element he absolutely won't touch, pointing out that the salespeople he inherited from the previous owners are also top-notch designers. " We've had customers who've come in, and they were working with a designer. Then they talk to our salespeople and they're like, 'Why am I paying $10,000 for this designer when you can do this better than they can?' So I thought that was really cool," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyle Robbins, High Country's new chief marketing officer, is also on board with the commitment to keep what works. "We're not looking to reinvent High Country," he said. "We want to build on what's already been thoughtfully created preserving its values while guiding its next chapter." High Country's success has been fueled largely on their reputation among those in the know 50% of customers are returnees. "Clients will stop by when they're in town just to see us and walk through the store. We've seen generations of families come back to shop with us," Chuck Worrell confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And nobody wants that to change. But Ballard does see the opportunity to reach previously untapped customers. He's also working on a system to leverage his salespeople's design experience in a more formal way. High Country will soon start offering design consultations for free, if you come into the store in person. Years of preparation Ballard, a Vermont native, has a background in innovation entrepreneurship. It's a topic he studied during his college years in upstate New York before moving on to gigs with IBM, transportation company Wall Street Systems, and IT company Accenture. Eventually he wound up in Austin before moving to Asheville with his wife two years ago, seeking a quieter life more in line with his Vermont upbringing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ballard says his years in the corporate world taught him a valuable lessons lessons he's incorporated into the possibly thorny venture of buying a long-running family business in a small mountain town. " Change management is so important. Just making sure that the people are bought into the process. I could have the best technology in the world or the best process in the world, but if the people aren't bought in, it'll never work," Ballard said, pointing out that the High Country didn't lose a single employee during the transition between owners. "It's one of the things I'm most proud of here," he continued. One of the things that has helped with the transition is the mentor/mentee relationship Ballard built with former owner Chuck Worrell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We just clicked immediately," Ballard said, grinning. "We've been working together for two months now. He's almost my second dad. It's such a relationship we built and it's such a cool factor. And I think that has really played into this too. I think the employees also see that," he continued. "It's a wonderful feeling to leave at this time knowing the store is in such good hands," Worrell added. "The employees we have are the best I've ever worked with that's what makes High Country so special." Even though Worrell will officially end his involvement in the transition by the end of this month, he's always going to be connected to the business, Ballard said. For one thing, Worrell is still the building's landlord. And has deep institutional knowledge of both customers and the industry. "I see him as being someone who, two years from now, if I'm going through something, I could call him up," Ballard said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And so even though a torch is being passed, the quality of light shed by that torch will remain the same, Ballard emphasized. And in the meantime, he says, now's a good time to start redecorating especially if you're on a budget. The new owners are in the process of refreshing the inventory, so anything that's been on the floor more than two years is steeply discounted. "And so we've marked it down to cost. All of it," he said. English rockstar Ozzy Osbourne, who died Tuesday, was beloved by fans in the U.S., but the former Black Sabbath frontman had a hot-and-cold relationship with American politics. Here are some memorable moments from the time that Osbourne, who died at age 76, spent dabbling in the U.S. political scene: WHCA, WHCA, WHCA: Osbourne was a featured guest at the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA)s annual fete at the heigh of his publicity resurgence in 2002 and, by many accounts, stole the show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then-President George W. Bush opened his speech welcoming, Washington power brokers, celebrities, Hollywood stars, Ozzy Osbourne, while pronouncing his surname as Os-burn. Osbourne then stood on the table and raised his hands in the air in front of the cheering crowd. Ozzy, mom loves your stuff, the then-president quipped, referring to former first lady Barbara Bush. According to reports at the time, Osbourne and his wife, Sharon, made their way to the presidents table during the event. Ozzy told [Bush] he should grow his hair long, Sharon Osbourne told the New York Daily News. The well-coiffed president reportedly replied, maybe in the second term. Members of Congress, politicos mourn: Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.) was among the first lawmakers to post about Osbournes death on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ozzy was a true pioneer of heavy metal and an enduring symbol of the rebellious, freedom-loving spirit that resonates across our nation and throughout the world, she wrote. He will be missed. The Libertarian Party of New York also posted a tribute, along with a video of Osbourne singing Black Sabbaths 1970 anti-war protest song War Pigs. Dont forget to call out the war pigs all around us, the group wrote. Anti-war efforts Osbourne was a well-known anti-war activist. When the GOP used his song Crazy Train at a campaign event without permission in 2004, he spoke out against the U.S. military campaign in Iraq. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few lines from Black Sabbaths 1970 song War Pigs: Politicians hide themselves away They only started the war Why should they go out to fight? They leave that role to the poor In an episode of The Osbournes podcast last year, he warned that the U.S. should be ready for another war. If theres a war again, which it looks like [it] very possibly could, Chinas already for it, he said. Theyve got mandatory [military service]. You got a choice: You gotta go to jail or military, he added. Going off the rails Many musicians have taken issue with President Trumps use of their tunes during his campaigns, and Osbourne is no exception. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Trump used the song Crazy Train to blast Democrats in a 2019 video on social media, the Osbournes asked him to stop. Based on this mornings unauthorized use of Ozzy Osbournes Crazy Train, we are sending notice to the Trump campaign (or any other campaigns) that they are forbidden from using any of Ozzy Osbournes music in political ads or in any political campaigns, Osbournes team said in a statement at the time. Ozzys music cannot be used for any means without approvals. In the meantime, we have a suggestion for Mr. Trump: perhaps he should reach out to some of his musician friends. Maybe Kanye West (Gold Digger), Kid Rock (I Am the Bullgod) or Ted Nugent (Stranglehold) will allow use of their music, the statement added. Across the pond Osbourne was a critic of the so-called Brexit movement in his home country. He called the effort a f joke in an interview with the music magazine The Big Issue in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont understand Brexit I dont think anybody does, he told the outlet. You watch TV, and its all this shouting and screaming about Brexit, but nobodys got a fng clue what it really means. Brexit was the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union alliance in 2020, following a far-right push thats been celebrated by some in the U.S. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Image courtesy of the CO150 Walkway website Gov. Jared Polis proposed pedestrian bridge through Civic Center Park. He backed off the idea Tuesday. In the summer before college, I remember scrubbing restaurant tables down to the thump of Ozzy Osbournes "Crazy Train." Oh, how we waited for the last customer to tally their tip and grab their hat. Lights out. All aboard! Two decades have passed, and I am now a neurologist, caring for patients who struggle unfairly with disorders of the brain. I say unfairly because progressive neurologic disease is a home of infinite sorrows, where patients must grieve one small loss at a time for years, if not decades. Opinion: TN admits Byron Black's disability. Now, Gov. Lee must prevent his execution Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patients face three possible futures: resist this encroachment on their identity, embrace it as an advocate or be consumed by it. Following in the footsteps of American actor Michael J. Fox, British musician and Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne chose resistance and advocacy both. Proceeds from his bands farewell concert just two weeks ago in Birmingham, UK were donated to Cure Parkinsons, a British charity. Mr. Osbourne was lucky in comparison to Fox, who has struggled against Parkinsons since age 29. Ozzy was diagnosed at age 70, which is a more typical age of onset. Classic symptoms include tremors, muscle, stiffness, slowed movement and poor coordination. These problems are caused by the death of cells in the brainstem, but we dont know why these cells die. Like other common disorders of the brain, including ALS, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimers Dementia, the horizon line where science meets cure is still too far away to see. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: America's immigration approach is hypocritical. It's time to put people first It's a long way off, but we can still reach it, if we really want to as a society. Finding a cure means believing in science, funding science and doing honest science. Its time to get on the train. I can almost hear Ozzy Osbourne in the back of the room now, All aboard, hahahahahaha, ayy! James Fleming James Fleming, M.D., M.Sc., is a neurologist at University of Tennessee-Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga. He completed his medical training at Vanderbilt University and obtained a masters in philosophy of public policy at The London School of Economics. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Ozzy Osbourne reminds us to fight for Parkinson's cure | Opinion MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (WHTM) The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) announced they will be hosting a job fair later this month. According to DOC, later this month on Tuesday, July 29, they will be hosting a job fair to fill several positions at SCI Camp Hill. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat The DOC says SCI Camp Hill is specifically looking to hire corrections officer trainees and other positions across multiple fields. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The job fair will be held at SCI Camp Hill, located on 2520 Lisburn Road from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. This job fair comes after the DOC lowered the minimum age requirements for corrections officer trainee positions to 18 last year. Previously, the age requirement for trainee positions was set at 21 years old. According to the DOC, they also secured a waiver of the Pennsylvania residency requirement for corrections officer job titles at all of the Commonwealths 24 state correctional facilities. The department says this change allows them to recruit prospective correction officers from neighboring states. Moving forward, there are no appointment or registration requirements to attend the job fair. All attendees are encouraged to apply for positions at SCI Camp Hill prior to arrival at the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the job fair, onsite interviews will take place attendees are told to bring two forms of ID. For more information on open positions within the DOC, you can 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 ABC27. A dancer who unfurled a Palestinian flag after a performance at the Royal Opera House claims they have been told they will never work there again. Daniel Perry, who The Telegraph revealed was a queer dance artist who attended a 48,000-a-year private school, staged the protest during a curtain call earlier this month. Footage from the end of Il trovatore showed an off-stage figure trying and failing to wrestle the Palestinian flag from Perry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Insiders claim this was Oliver Mears, the director of opera at the central London venue, who then had an exchange of words with Perry. In an interview with Novara Media, a Left-wing outlet, Perry claimed: Oliver Mears came and said to me, very aggressively, You will never work for the Opera House ever again. I responded, I dont give a flying f---. Credit: @sydcas/X Perry had been hired as a freelancer by the Royal Opera House, which said the protest was unauthorised and undermined its position of political impartiality. The dancer explained: I chose to do my demonstration during my curtain call, a moment for myself. I chose to make it about something bigger than me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perry reasoned that opera audiences are the ones with power and influence to be able to help civilians suffering in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The performer also complained that the Right-wing media are trying to make a mockery of me. After the protest, The Telegraph identified Perry as the person responsible and that the performer was a DJ and queer dance artist who prefers they/them pronouns. Perry was educated at the Tring Park School for the Performing Arts in Hertfordshire, which charges up to 16,000 per term for boarding. Former pupils include Dame Julie Andrews and Daisy Ridley, the Star Wars actress. The dancer recently wore a tank top with the slogan Free Palestine to a London performance of Cabaret, which is set in Berlin during the rise of the Nazis in the early 1930s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a social media post about the show, the dancer wrote: In this particular version, we are reminded of how regimental political systems, such as extreme nationalism, and fascism, oppress and eradicate individualism, whilst also segregating people leaving them voiceless, expressionless and helplessly in control by their oppressors. I believe we are currently living in similar times. The Royal Opera House has been 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. Attorney General Pam Bondi has fired the replacement for New Jerseys top Trump-appointed prosecutor over what she claims is political favoritism and judicial duplicity. Desiree Lee Grace was appointed by New Jersey district court judges to replace Trumps former personal attorney, Alina Habba, who reportedly lacks the votes to be formally confirmed by the Senate as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. On Tuesday, Bondi said that Grace has been removed, defending Habba for making NJ safe again, in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, the post read, politically minded judges refused to allow her to continue in her position, replacing Alina with the First Assistant this Department of Justice does not tolerate rogue judges especially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers. New Jersey Democratic Sens. Cory Booker and Andy Kim released a statement on Tuesday calling out the Trump administration for a disregard of the law. Trumps Department of Justice is once again criticizing a court that acted within its authority, the statement said,continuing a pattern of publicly undermining judicial decisions and showing disregard for the rule of law and the separation of powers. The senators called the decision a blatant attempt to intimidate anyone that doesnt agree with them and undermine judicial independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Attorney General and former personal attorney to Trump Todd Blanche defended Bondi on X. It wont work, he said. Pursuant to the Presidents authority, we have removed that deputy, effective immediately. This backroom vote will not override the authority of the Chief Executive. Habba had not been a prosecutor before March. Since Habba was appointed, she has brought legal action against Democratic lawmakers in connection to ICE protests. In May, Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark, was arrested on charges of federal trespassing at an ICE facility, while Rep. LaMonica McIver, D-N.J. is accused of two counts of assaulting, resisting and impeding an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer at a protest. The charges against Baraka were later dropped. Baraka has since sued Habba over his arrest. McIver has plead not guilty. The post Pam Bondi tries to save Alina Habbas job after judges vote to replace her appeared first on Salon.com. PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) Tuesday nights Panama City commission meeting brought out some concerned residents. A big-ticket item on the agenda was the first reading of speed detection systems in school zones. The item was brought back after being tabled earlier last year. The speed detection systems aim to prioritize safety for children and would be placed in the citys 11 school zones through a company called RedSpeed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cameras would only operate during school hours and mail violators a $100 ticket, less than the normal $500 fine. Tuesday night, residents had mixed opinions about seeing it again. Is it just going to be when there are flashing lights that people are going to get a ticket? Because right over here, you dont even have a lot of school zones, dont have flashing lights. Youve got to stop and read the sign and find out what time it is. So, to me, the Bay District School System needs to improve its side of it, resident Danny Davis said. I stay awake at night being a leader in a school thats over safety. We dont need to wait until the child gets run over to let a company come. Does it cost the city anything? Let them put the signs up, and if people speed, they will get a ticket, Palm Bay Prep Academy Executive Director Ron Danzey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second and final hearing will be at the next Panama City Commission meeting. If its approved, they should be installed sometime during the upcoming school 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 mypanhandle.com. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) Park Home Furniture is planning to help over a hundred kids get a good nights rest by giving them new beds to sleep on. This is the second year of the companys Beds for Kids Program. Park Home partnered with Tempur-Pedic to donate beds to lower-income families in the counties they serve: Altoona and Johnstown. The company will donate a total of 120 beds to children in need, with 60 beds allocated to children in the Altoona area and 60 beds allocated to children in Cambria County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It means a lot for them when they go to school. And actually, some of the kids are actually able to move back home because they didnt have a mattress to sleep on, which is a great thing, Travis Muccitelli, Owner of Park Home Furniture, said. Eligible Pennsylvania families encouraged to apply for summer EBT program Along with the mattress, Park Home will also provide the families with the platform for the bed, a pillow, a mattress protector, sheets, and a Tempur-Pedic teddy bear. Families were identified and chosen through Family Services and school districts. We just want to do something good for the community and just something nice for the kids, Muccitelli said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the beds will be picked up or delivered as early as Friday. The 60 beds for children in Cambria County will be distributed in the fall. We do have a foundation, through the Central PA Community Foundation, that people could donate to. Every mattress we sell, we put some money back towards these to help fund it as well, Muccitelli said. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. To support the program, Park Home & Park Security will host a golf outing on Sept. 9 at 9 a.m. at the Sinking Valley Country Club. The outing will support the mattress project and youth sports in the community. If youre interested in attending, you can RSVP to golfouting@parkhomestores.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. Gun-control advocates from the Parkland shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas say U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi exploited them for political gain. Now, theyre launching a campaign against her to make that known. She used our grief to get power, and now shes using that power to create more grief, said Jaclyn Corin, a survivor of the shooting and executive director of the March For Our Lives organization, which is sponsoring the movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group formed after the tragedy in 2018 and is now criticizing Bondi for cancelling grant money used for gun-violence prevention programs, repealing a policy that removes the licenses of gun dealers with serious violations and supporting the merging of two national law enforcement agencies that investigate drug and firearm crimes, ultimately resulting in proposed budget cuts for both. Shes now become the most deadly and dangerous attorney general on guns in modern history, Corin said in a press conference Wednesday to start the campaign. Part of the movement includes sending out mobile billboards throughout the Miami area and Washington, D.C. with the message: Parkland Pam exploited our pain for political gain. A March For Our Lives spokesperson said billboards in the Miami area will be stationed throughout the day at locations including the Aventura Mall, Brickell City Centre and the Wynwood Walls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The movement has received support from U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Orlando: We have to continue to build the political will necessary to protect Americans from gun violence, he said in the press conference. And that includes holding leaders accountable when they betray survivors and the communities that they claim to support. Corin said Bondis actions now are a far cry from what she said days after the shooting when she was Floridas attorney general. I met with her with a bunch of other survivors, pleading with her to do something, Corin said, and behind those closed doors, she was dismissive and cold, touting a rehearsed PR school-safety message that didnt address the real problem which is, of course, the gun. But the moments the cameras were rolling, she promised action. After the shooting, Bondi publicly supported both raising the required age for gun ownership from 18 to 21 and implementing red-flag laws that allow law enforcement to petition a court for a persons gun if they pose a threat to themselves or others. When she received President Trumps nomination for attorney general, groups like the National Association of Gun Rights criticized Bondi, saying she threatened the second amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She used our pain to build her credibility as someone who could bridge divides on gun safety, Corin said, but we realize now that it was all political theater. The Office of the Attorney General didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Manuel Oliver, whose son Joaquin Oliver died in the shooting, said he remembers meeting with Bondi after the tragedy and feeling good that some leaders were working to do something about it. Unfortunately, that was not the case, he said. Now, Oliver said he hopes the campaign, called Parkland Pam, will make politicians revisit the topic of gun reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These campaigns are based on grabbing the persons attention, he said. Its not like were mad at you, and we dont want to hear from you and were going to vote you out. No, the fact is that youre in power now, and you still made those promises. And I believe you can fix this. Corin said March For Our Lives wrote a letter to Bondi two weeks ago and hasnt received a response yet. She said the organization will run campaigns on other leaders in the future, though she didnt name anyone in specific. Every politician watching should understand that if you betray gun violence survivors if you use our pain for political gain we will make you reckon with your hypocrisy, and we will make you pay the price, she said. JOPLIN, Mo. For that small town student with dreams of being a doctor, the path forward just got a lot easier. KCU Joplin is launching a new partnership with ten regional colleges and universities. Its called the Rural Health Scholars program and is a pathway that starts with a local two-year college. Students then transfer to either MSSU or PSU before getting the chance to start a KCU medical or dental degree a year early. The goal is to encourage those students to return home after graduating and helping to address the growing need for healthcare in rural areas. And thats what the pathway is all about. Is taking kids from rural communities, and educating them in community colleges, state colleges. And then on to medical and dental school with the hope that theyll return to their communities to make a difference, said Dr. Marc Hahn, KCU President and CEO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For students, theyre going to have a pathway to medical school and supported every step of the way. And for people who live in the Four States region this means a future more doctors, more dentists, said Dr. Chris Childers, PSU Dean of Arts & Sciences. I think this will have a tremendous impact on the region, on our healthcare workforce tomorrow. But maybe above all, students, said Dr. Dean Van Galen, MSSU President. There are a total of eight community colleges in the Four States associated with the Rural Health Scholars, everything from Crowder College and NEO A&M to Ft. Scott and Coffeyville Community Colleges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) Nathon Michael Ramirez drank at a party held at a Bakersfield apartment complex pool before driving several partygoers to a residence on the night of June 10, where he continued to consume alcohol, witnesses told Bakersfield police investigators. An hour later, the 19-year-old Ramirez took a white BMW without permission and sped away without saying where he was going, witnesses said. Soon after, Ramirez ran a red light while speeding some witnesses to the crash estimated he was going more than 100 mph and slammed into a Dodge Charger, according to police reports that recently became available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bystanders pulled Ramirez from the BMW just before it caught fire, the reports say. The Dodges driver, Jason Munoz-Cruz, 27, was pinned in. Firefighters used rescue tools to free him. He was pronounced dead about an hour later, having suffered skull fractures and a torn aorta, the reports say. Ramirez, who is unlicensed, has pleaded not guilty to charges including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Held on $700,000 bail, he has a preliminary hearing scheduled next month. Toxicology results werent available by the time the reports were written, but investigators wrote Ramirez had a strong odor of alcohol, slurred his speech and struggled to keep his eyes open when they contacted him at the crash scene at California and Union avenues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did I kill him? Ramirez kept asking according to the reports. Witnesses said the Dodge had a green light as it entered the intersection from eastbound California Avenue and was hit by the northbound BMW. The impact sent the BMW careening into a fence by the parking lot of San Joaquin Tractor Co. Ramirez told investigators hed been at a pool party but didnt remember anything about the crash. Two people whod been drinking with Ramirez including the BMWs owner said theyd first met him days earlier and decided to get together and drink at an apartment complex pool, according to the reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, the BMWs owner allowed Ramirez to drive her and a couple others to a residence where they could continue partying. She told police Ramirez became angry when she criticized his reckless driving. Ramirez stayed an hour then drove away in the BMW without her permission, she told investigators. She reported the vehicle stolen. Minutes later, she said, authorities called and told her the BMW had been involved in a 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 KGET 17 News. A South Dakota Department of Social Services economic assistance application. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) South Dakota will withdraw its Medicaid expansion work requirements proposal now that President Donald Trump has signed federal requirements into law, state Department of Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff told South Dakota Searchlight. We dont have the choice, Althoff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States have to apply for a federal waiver to impose their own requirements. The new law, passed earlier this month, constricts any waivers more lenient than the federal requirements, Althoff added. The states proposal would have implemented fewer paperwork and tracking requirements than at the federal level, officials said during a public hearing process. Althoff called the waiver application a potential exercise in futility shortly after it became clear that federal requirements could be adopted. The department proposed its work requirements this spring after South Dakota voters passed a constitutional amendment in November allowing the state to seek work requirements for the federal-state program. Medicaid is government-funded health insurance for people with low incomes. South Dakotans voted in 2022 to expand Medicaid to adults with incomes up to 138% of the poverty level, a decision that allowed the state to capitalize on a 90% federal funding match. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal work requirements will mandate that those between the ages of 19 and 65 who rely on the program work, volunteer or go to school 80 hours a month. Participants will have to meet those requirements a month before they enroll, and Medicaid renewal will be moved from an annual basis to every six months. The federal government allows exceptions for people who are disabled, pregnant, eligible for the Indian Health Service, in foster care, were formerly in foster care and are younger than 26, or were released from incarceration in the last 90 days, among others. South Dakotas plan would not have set a number of hours to be eligible, but would have required Medicaid recipients to work, train, attend school, or serve as a caretaker for a child or elderly or disabled person in their home, unless they qualified for an exemption. Compliance with the state-level work rules would have been reviewed on an annual basis, at the time of Medicaid renewal, rather than at the time of application. South Dakota Medicaid Director Heather Petermann said during the public hearing process that the state-proposed requirements were intended to encourage work without trying to track arbitrary work hours. The federal work requirements must be implemented by the end of 2026. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX HOBOKEN, N.J. (PIX11) Speed restrictions will be in place along a section of the PATH train through Labor Day. A major improvement project along the PATH Train and Hoboken Station, which was completed in February, is contributing to the service delays. More Local News The Port Authority, which operates PATH, has been addressing ongoing switch issues at Hoboken since Saturday, July 12. PATH Train Spokesperson Seth Sein says the agency sincerely appreciates riders patience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out of an abundance of caution, we are moving trains at slower speeds in and out of Hoboken. These speed restrictions will continue until replacement parts are fabricated, shipped, and installed. Trains are currently using Tracks 2 & 3, as the damaged part of the interlocking leads to Track 1, Stein wrote in a statement to PIX11 News. PATH officials say the switches have been repaired. A portion of the custom-made guard rail needs to be manufactured and replaced. More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State Riders say theyre waiting a few more minutes and seeing more crowded trains during the rush hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maurice checks PATH alerts before he heads out. Obviously, with the work being done, its a little bit of inconvenience. But in general, its not bad, he said. Other riders get updates during morning transit reports on the television news. This is doable as long as its running and better than having to take a bus and a train. It is getting aggravating, said a rider exiting the Hoboken Station. PATH advisories have notified riders that they will see 10-minute service on the HOB-WTC and HOB-33 St. lines during rush hours this week and normal scheduled service during other times. The issue first surfaced on Saturday, July 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PATH says a malfunctioning switch caused a train to go off the tracks. No one was hurt, and service was restored. Our investigation currently suggests that the derailment may have been caused or exacerbated by the design of a guard rail, a component of the new interlocking installed at Hoboken in February, Stein wrote. The part of the track down the tunnel called the interlocking was a key component of the PATH Forward work that was done during the closure of the station for 25 days in February. PATH Forward will mean more reliable rides, but also asks our riders to bear with us as we carry out significant work on the system to make that a reality. Any failure of the new equipment is unacceptable, and we have brought in outside experts to prevent a future recurrence of these malfunctions, Stein added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An alert from PATH said cross-honoring on some NJ TRANSIT Rail, NJ TRANSIT Hudson Bergen Light Rail, and a $3 fare on New York Waterway would continue through Friday evening, July 25th. Other service information will be posted and announced as the speed restrictions continue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 patient in a South Carolina children's hospital has died of a brain-eating amoeba, according to the facility. In a news briefing Tuesday, Prisma Health Children's Hospital-Midlands confirmed the patient died of primary amebic meningoencephalitis, also known as PAM, a rare but often fatal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri organism. The hospital did not share any more details about the patient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health, the patient's exposure likely occurred at Lake Murray, though officials said they cannot be completely certain. The department said this is the first known case in the state since 2016. In the briefing, Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, a pediatric infectious disease physician at the hospital, said these infections are "very devastating," with the vast majority of cases in the United States ending in death. "Greater than 97% of cases that have occurred since the '60s have been fatal," she said. Burch explained the infections occur when forceful water gets up the nose and is able to cross into the brain. This can happen during recreational water activities in warm freshwater lakes, rivers and hot springs, where the amoeba thrives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To reduce your risk, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests holding your nose or wearing a nose clip if you are jumping or diving into freshwater or keeping your head above water in hot springs. You cannot get a Naegleria fowleri infection from swallowing contaminated water or from someone else who is infected. This isn't the first death caused by Naegleria fowleri in the U.S. this year. A Texas woman died from an infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba after using tap water from her RV in a nasal irrigation device, health officials reported in May. The previously healthy 71-year-old developed severe symptoms, including fever, headache and altered mental status, within four days after the nasal irrigation rinse, the CDC case report said. Despite medical treatment for a suspected PAM infection, she developed seizures and died eight days after the symptoms began. Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Sneak peek: The Case of the Black Swan (Part 2) Idaho murders victims' families speak out at Brian Kohberger's sentencing hearing Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, is calling on the Justice Department (DOJ) to charge former senior national health adviser Anthony Fauci with lying to Congress to test whether former President Bidens pardon of Fauci will hold up in court. I do believe Anthony Fauci committed a felony by lying to Congress, Paul told pro-President Trump activist Charlie Kirk in an interview when asked whether Biden pardons signed by autopen would hold up in court. You have to charge him with a felony, take him to court and then the court will decide whether or not the pardon is upheld, he continued. You can argue until youre blue in the face that you cant do autopens and that maybe the president wasnt aware of it. But the only way to actually do this is to charge someone who has been pardoned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kentucky Republican added, I think Anthony Fauci is the most likely to be chargeable. There are other people Hunter Biden could be charged as well but someone has to be charged. Paul says Fauci testified before Congress in a very vigorous and heated and animated way that the National Institutes of Health never funded gain-of-function virus research in Wuhan, China. This is directly contradicted by the actual people who were involved in the funding, the senator said. Other Republicans, however, have expressed skepticism about challenging the autopen pardons after Biden told The New York Times that he personally approved them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I made every decision, Biden told The Times earlier this month. He said he had his staff use an autopen to replicate his signature because were talking about a whole lot of people. Biden also pardoned his son Hunter, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley and members of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on 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 The Hill. A former south suburban official was sentenced to 18 months of probation Wednesday for his role in a scheme to pay bribes to get lucrative red-light cameras installed in Oak Lawn. In sentencing John OSullivan, 57, a onetime Worth Township supervisor and state lawmaker, U.S. District Judge LaShonda Hunt said even low-level corruption erodes the publics faith in government and leads to the assumption we act in our own self-interests, not in the interest of constituents. This pay-to-play mentality really does have to end, Hunt said. This is your community, Mr. OSullivan The point was to get additional red-light cameras approved in your town, and you would have profited from that but not necessarily the people of Oak Lawn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge did, however, note that OSullivan has led an otherwise honorable life, calling his crime one minor blip in your entire story. OSullivan pleaded guilty more than four years ago to conspiring with longtime political operative Patrick Doherty and an executive representing red-light camera company SafeSpeed LLC to pay bribes in exchange for the official support of an Oak Lawn trustee to put the ticketing cameras at additional intersections. At the time, OSullivan moonlighted as a paid sales consultant for SafeSpeed, earning commissions by helping the company expand in the west and southwest suburbs. The SafeSpeed executive, Omar Maani, was secretly cooperating with federal investigators and recorded calls and meetings between the three men for the FBI. Maani was granted a deferred prosecution agreement with prosecutors and testified earlier this year in the trial of state Sen. Emil Jones III, who is accused of agreeing to take bribes in exchange for his help in the legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OSullivan, meanwhile, cooperated immediately after being approached by the FBI and testified before a federal grand jury, helping secure Dohertys conviction, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Ardam. Doherty was sentenced in 2023 to more than five years in prison. In asking to spare OSullivan from prison, Ardam said he also provided information against other individuals, some of whom are still under investigation, as well as other matters important to the government. Before the sentence was handed down, OSullivan stood at the lectern and read a two-page statement to the court, his voice breaking into sobs at times as he apologized to his family and community for the harm hed caused. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several years ago I made a terrible mistake, he said. It was selfish and foolish and it was wrong, and it will have repercussions for the rest of my life. OSullivans attorney, Dan Collins, told the judge that his client has had the case hanging over his head for more than six years and suffered public embarrassment as well as the stigma of a felony conviction. He currently works as an unarmed security guard and helps take care of a son with special medical needs. Its a sad case, judge. John is otherwise a good man, Collins said. OSullivans background includes many stops in Cook County politics, most recently Worth Township, which was a political stronghold for longtime House Speaker Michael Madigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OSullivan was a staffer of then-Cook County Commissioner Ed Moody, long a top member of Madigans vaunted political army who also was briefly Cook County recorder of deeds. According to testimony in Madigans recent criminal trial, Moody was among a handful of ComEd subcontractors who were secretly paid more than $1.3 million by the utility in exchange for Madigans support for its legislation. OSullivan served a brief stint as an appointed state House member and voted as a lame duck in January 2011 for a 67% increase in the income tax rate driven by Madigan. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle later put OSullivan on the county payroll as an $85,000-a-year regional superintendent at the Cook County Forest Preserve District. But OSullivan only worked for the forest preserve for a short time before resigning over what officials said were resume discrepancies. According to federal prosecutors, OSullivan conspired with Doherty and Maani in 2017 to get a job for the son of an Oak Lawn trustee in a bid to get new red-light cameras installed there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a recorded phone call on May 23, 2017, Doherty told Maani that the trustee was looking for a job for his kid, to which Maani asked whether he would want to be a violations reviewer for SafeSpeed, according to Maanis deferred prosecution agreement, which offered the most detailed version of the alleged scheme. I dont know, Doherty allegedly replied. I think hes looking to make as much money as he can because hes going to college. I pay him out of my LLC. Something like that. I dont know. Something for him to do. Two days later, Doherty told OSullivan in another recorded call that he would pay the teenager through his company and have the teenager research stuff for the LLC, court records show. Just make sure we get the, make sure we get the (expletive) thing, the (red-light camera) contract, Doherty told OSullivan on the call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, it was decided that payments were going to be doled out to the relative in $500 installments over a period of eight weeks, according to the indictment filed against Doherty in February 2020. The FBI later recorded Doherty telling the trustees son, Its not like I need ya, but that hed pay the money anyway, according to the Doherty indictment. Doherty then cut the relative a $500 check for the first installment, the indictment alleged. According to prosecutors, the trustees son was paid only the one installment, and SafeSpeed was never rewarded additional business as a result of the scheme. In his sentencing filing, Collins wrote that the teenager testified before the grand jury and said he found the work assigned by Doherty to be boring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I spent an hour or two on the project and never finished it, the teen testified, according to Collins memo. I did not enjoy the work, so I did not ask for any more projects. The trustee was never charged. Maanis cooperation also led to charges against former state Sen. Martin Sandoval, a Chicago Democrat who pleaded guilty last year to taking at least $70,000 in government-supplied cash from Maani in return for acting as SafeSpeeds protector in the state Senate. Sandoval was cooperating with prosecutors when he died in December 2020 of a COVID-19-related illness. A jury in April deadlocked on all counts against Jones, the state senator, and a retrial is set for early next year. SafeSpeed, meanwhile, has denied any wrongdoing. The company also has said Doherty and Maani were acting without its knowledge. jmeisner@chicagotribune.com Navy veteran Geb Galle survived Pearl Harbor and went on to take part in 19 campaigns in the Pacific during World War II. In 1942 alone, he watched B-25 bombers take off from the aircraft carrier USS Hornet for the Doolittle Raid, and he later saved four other sailors from the cruiser USS Northampton before the ship sank, his daughter Lynda Palmer said. One of the guys did thank him, but dad said he didnt need thanks, it was just what you did during those times, Palmer told Task & Purpose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he turned 104 on July 20, he received a letter from Acting Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby, Palmer said. The letter was delivered by two sailors, one of whom is a machinists mate, just like her father was during the war. They sat there and conversed back and forth about what it was like to be a machinists mate, Palmer said. Heres dads family all standing around while this gentleman was reading this letter to him. It just brought tears to my eyes. Kilby reached out to Galle after learning about his 104th birthday from veterans, a Navy spokesperson told Task & Purpose. Your remarkable journey is an enduring testament to the strength, sacrifice, and spirit that define our Navy and our nation, Kilby wrote in his letter, according to a Navy news release. America endures because of patriots like you men and women who answered the call with courage, honor, and unwavering devotion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 7, 1941, Galle was serving aboard the battleship USS Nevada, the only battleship that was able to get underway during the Japanese attack. It was on a Sunday. Galle was in his dress whites, and he saw the Japanese planes but initially didnt recognize their markings, his daughter said. As soon as the attack started, Galle headed to his battle station in the Nevadas engine room, where he helped get enough steam for the ship to try to escape. Palmer said an officer told her father to get the boilers going immediately. Dad said, well, its going to take a little bit because theyre big steam boilers, Palmer said. And the guy told him: I dont care. Get them going and get them going now. And thats the only reason why they got the boilers going and started out of the harbor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the Nevada was struck several times, its crew later beached the ship so that it would not sink and block the harbor. USS Nevada off the U.S. Atlantic coast, in September 1944. Navy photo. After surviving the attack on Pearl Harbor, Galle served aboard the Northampton, a cruiser that was one of the ships that accompanied the Hornet for the Doolittle Raid in April 1942, his daughter said. Galle and the other sailors on the Northampton stood on deck and watched the B-25s take off from the Hornet, Palmer said. They kept going: Come on, get up! Get up! Get up! she said. They were praying and hoping for the guys that were trying to get up in the air that it would be on the upswing of the ship, and so they could take off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That October, when the Hornet was severely damaged by Japanese bombs and torpedoes at the battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, the Northampton tried to tow the stricken aircraft carrier to safety, but the Hornet was hit again and ordered to be abandoned. While taking part in the Guadalcanal campaign, Northampton was struck by Japanese torpedoes at the Battle of Tassafaronga and eventually sank on Dec. 1, 1942. As the ship was going down, Galle heard four sailors yelling, Palmer said. They were trapped in a compartment behind a water-tight hatch. When Galle started to open the hatch, a senior ordered him to stop. Top Stories This Week News The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks The Army has a novel solution to its drone problem: Shoot them with tanks By Matt White News Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad Louisiana National Guard base to be renamed for Confederate generals dad By Matt White News A Marine general will command the Naval Academy for the first time A Marine general will command the Naval Academy for the first time By Matt White Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dad didnt argue with him, Palmer said. He said, He had a .45 on his hip, I didnt argue with him. So, he watched the senior officer go up the stairs. Dad went up and looked. He didnt see him. He went back down, opened the hatch, and let the four men out. He then closed the watch and went topside, where he saw sailors in a raft below calling to him. Galle jumped from the sinking ship, swam to the raft and climbed aboard. They spent a day-and-a-half on the life raft. The men were spotted by a U.S. plane and rescued by PT 109, which Navy Lt. j.g. John F. Kennedy would later command in 1943. I asked dad, I said, Was he on there? Palmer recalled. And my dad said: I didnt care. I just wanted out of the water. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. A peatland in the Peruvian Amazon became carbon neutral in 2022, according to a new study. . | Credit: Cavan Images/Getty Images A palm swamp peatland in the Peruvian Amazon that normally absorbs more carbon than it releases each year has switched to being carbon neutral, even with no major disturbance by local people. On their face, the findings, reported June 30 in the journal Geophysical Research Letters , may seem like a sign of trouble. However, experts say there's more to the story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peatlands play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by absorbing carbon dioxide. In Peru, they cover some 22,000 square miles (56,000 square kilometers) less than 5% of the country's total area. Yet they store about 5 gigatons of carbon belowground roughly equivalent to all of the carbon stored aboveground in vegetation in Peru. It's a similar picture globally, where, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, peatlands cover about 3% of the world's land area but store at least 550 gigatons of carbon more than twice the carbon stored in all the world's forests. "Peatlands represent such a small land area on Earth, but they are massively important as stocks of carbon," Jeffrey Wood , a biometeorologist at the University of Missouri and lead author of the new study, told Live Science. "These systems have accumulated gigatons of carbon over tens of thousands of years." So what has happened in Peru? Key ecosystems Wood and his colleagues have been studying the dominant kind of Amazonian peatland in Peru's Quistococha Forest Reserve. These swampy ecosystems, known locally as aguajales, are dominated by moriche palms (Mauritia flexuosa). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These key ecosystems develop in areas that flood seasonally, with the palms providing a fruit called aguaje for locals, as well as for macaws, monkeys, tapirs and agoutis. These areas are densely vegetated havens for many birds, reptiles and mammals. Crucially, the plants that grow there absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere through photosynthesis . But because the area is waterlogged, their dead leaves and other fallen matter usually accumulate as peat in the low-oxygen environment , which traps carbon instead of fully decomposing and releasing it back into the atmosphere. Wood and his colleagues found that the peatland switched from being a strong carbon sink in 2018 and 2019 to being about carbon neutral in 2022. Yet there were no obvious signs of human effects on the ecosystem, Wood said. "The peatland hadn't been drained and the trees hadn't all been cut down or taken down by a storm," he said. "It also wasn't a major drought year or a major heat wave." The swampy ecosystems studied are dominated by moriche palms. | Credit: Michel VIARD/Getty Images Instead, the researchers found that two factors led to the change. The first is that prolonged cloudless periods and higher sun intensities limited the photosynthesis of the plants, thus restricting their growth and how much carbon dioxide they absorbed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second was that lower water levels left more of the top of the peat exposed. This meant more oxygen was available to bacteria in the decaying matter, which decomposed faster, releasing more carbon dioxide and methane gases than usual. Lydia Cole , a conservation ecologist at the University of St Andrews in Scotland who wasn't involved with the work, told Live Science that normally, in the course of a year, a peat ecosystem goes through periods of greater carbon uptake and time of greater carbon release, but on average, the result is usually a net absorption of carbon. "Across one landscape, you'll have areas that are releasing carbon and areas that are sinks, and peatlands often have a microtopography," she explained. "So it might be that on a mound you'll get more decomposition and emissions of carbon and in hollows, which are wetter, you'll get sequestration. But the net over the course of a year is what we're really interested in." At first it seemed counterintuitive to Wood that more sunlight would cause less photosynthesis. But it could happen because the Quistococha rainforest is generally covered in thick clouds, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The plants are being exposed to much more light than they can deal with," Wood told Live Science. When there is too much light and heat, the plants close the pores, called stomata, on their leaves, through which they take in CO2 and release oxygen during photosynthesis. That's why photosynthesis is often lower at midday in rainforests , and Wood and his colleagues saw that standard pattern in Peru. But what had changed was what happened in the normally very productive mornings and afternoons, where photosynthesis dropped below normal levels in the higher light intensities. One big question is whether the peatland will return to being a carbon sink, stay carbon neutral, or progress to releasing huge volumes of its stored carbon. Wood is optimistic that the peatland will regain its sink capacity in future years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Evans , a peatland biogeochemist at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology in Wales who wasn't involved in the work, also advised against drawing conclusions based on one year. "I would expect a natural peatland to fluctuate between net sinks and neutral from year to year depending on weather conditions, particular[ly] if water levels get drawn down," Evans told Live Science. "I certainly would not interpret this as evidence of a long-term change in the carbon balance." Human impacts However, the change observed by Wood and his colleagues happened in the absence of an obvious human disturbance but that doesn't mean humans haven't affected the sink or won't in the future. "One ecosystem is not functioning as an island," Cole said. There are areas of grasslands and settlements in the wider region, which were created after deforestation. This could have changed local weather patterns, which then feed into longer-term climate changes, she said. It's uncertain how climate change will influence tropical peatland in Peru or elsewhere in the Amazon, but any effects on cloud cover or changes in the water table are likely to affect the strength of these carbon sinks, Wood said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jean Ometto , head of the Centre for Earth System Science at Brazil's National Space Research Institute, who wasn't involved in the work, told Live Science that water table variation is a major issue in the Amazon generally. RELATED STORIES We're within 3 years of reaching a critical climate threshold. Can we reverse course? Tuvalu residents prepare for worlds first planned migration of an entire nation and climate change is to blame Strongest nor'easters along US East Coast are becoming more intense as the world warms, study suggests "In the Brazilian Amazon, we're facing extremes of floods and extremes of drought," he said. "The water table coming down can be a long-term process because of the frequent droughts. With the change in climate, that might be a permanent process, which is a huge problem." The findings should be taken seriously but be put into perspective, Cole said. "We need to not cry wolf about this," she said. "But we also need to think really seriously about how we protect peatlands that remain healthy and how we can re-wet those peatlands that still have the capacity to sequester carbon into the future." YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) More solar power is coming to a local Midstate park. Pennsylvania officials announced the installation of additional solar power equipment at Gifford Pinchot State Park, bringing the states capacity to two gigawatts of power. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania We have enough installed solar capacity now in Pennsylvania, two gigawatts, to power all the homes in Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Scranton, York, and Williamsport, said Steve Defrank, chairman of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. And this is more than just symbolic. Its a demonstration of how fast our energy mix is evolving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement $5 billion data center planned in York County Two gigawatts equal 2,000,000,000 watts, which is enough to power 350,000 homes. The state is on track to hit its goal of being 10% solar by 2030, which is about 10 gigawatts. The states Department of Environmental Protection said adding more solar power to the grid reduces air pollution and lowers energy bills. The Gifford Pinchot State Parks solar array is 342 kW and provides shade of an ADA-accessible picnic area and parking in the Quaker Race Day use Area. Lewisberry, PA. File photo of drone image from April 2025. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. File photo of drone image from April 2025. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. A DEP electric vehicle charging under one of the solar panels at Gifford Pinchot State Park. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. A DEP electric vehicle charging under one of the solar panels at Gifford Pinchot State Park. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. File photo of drone image from April 2025. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. Lewisberry, PA. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DCNR), and the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission (PUC), gathered at Gifford Pinchot State Park, in the Quaker Race Day Use Area, to announce the installation of two gigawatts of solar power energy generation in Pennsylvania. The current two gigawatts (2,000,000,000 watts) of installed solar generation in Pennsylvania are enough to power nearly 350,000 homes. July 22, 2025. This park uses clean energy from the sun and provides shade for cars in the parking area, modeling a practical way we can take climate action and serve visitors in an innovative way, DCNR Deputy Secretary Mike Walsh said. For 30 years, DCNR has been managing Pennsylvanias natural resources with sustainability at the forefront. With leadership from Governor Shapiro, we continue to focus on the stewardship that strengthens communities and enhances our quality of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. (WKBN) Pennsylvania State Polices Bureau of Criminal Investigation is asking health care agencies in the state to review their employment records related to an investigation into fraudulent nursing practices. According to PSP, Shannon Nicole Womack is alleged to have used at least 10 aliases to pose as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), and registered nurse supervisor at rehabilitation and nursing home facilities in various regions across Pennsylvania. She is charged with securing nursing positions through staffing agencies by submitting fraudulently signed documents and also by creating a false LLC to deploy herself to jobs. Reports indicate Womack worked at each of these jobs for only a short time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PSP is working with the Department of Health, Department of State, and multiple district attorneys and states in the ongoing investigation. Investigators confirmed Womack used the following aliases in various parts of the state: Shannon Nicole Parham Shannon Nicole Abiola Shannon Nicole Armstrong Shannon Abiola-Parham Shannon Nicole Grimes Shannon Nicole Womack Shannon Nicole Lawson Shannon Nicole Lethco Shannon Nicole Robinson Shannon Lee Lawson If any of the names listed above match any employment records at a providers facility, they are urged to contact PSP Washington at 724-223-5200. Womack is facing Corrupt Organizations, Endangering the Welfare of Care, Unlawful Use of a Computer, Identity Theft, Forgery, Theft by Unlawful Taking and other charges. Advertisement 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. (WHTM) President Donald Trump followed through with an expectant move on Tuesday to once again pull the United States from the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO. The decision comes only two years after the Biden administration rejoined the organization, following a five-year absence that began during Trumps first term. With the move, the White House said U.S. involvement is not in its national interest and accused the agency of promoting anti-Israel speech. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania Director-General of UNESCO Audrey Azoulay refuted these claims in a statement, saying they contradict the reality of UNESCOs efforts, particularly in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism. But the agency is best known for its work to preserve places of cultural significance through its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Landmarks and areas protected by the agency include Indias Taj Mahal and Egypts Pyramids of Giza, as well as three sites in Pennsylvania. So what sites did the agency place on the same level as some of the worlds greatest wonders? Independence Hall UNESCO inscribed Philadelphias Independence Hall onto its list in 1979. The site of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America, the agency said the events there were conceived in a national context, but the universal principles of freedom and democracy set forth in these two documents have had a profound impact on lawmakers and political thinkers around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The founders debated the countrys starting documents inside the dignified brick structure, which has undergone many restorations since its construction began in 1732. Its wooden steeple also once held the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of Pennsylvanias role in the countrys fight for independence. UNESCO said the documents written and signed within the building express the universal principles of the right to revolution and self-government. Fallingwater UNESCO inscribed Frank Lloyd Wrights Fallingwater, along with seven other of the architects buildings, in 2019 as part of The 20th-Century Architecture Frank Lloyd Wright site. Based in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, Wright designed the home in 1935 above a waterfall. Built from native sandstone and other materials sourced where the property stands, it is considered one of the worlds most discussed modern-style structures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the buildings reflect the organic architecture developed by Wright, which includes an open plan, a blurring of the boundaries between exterior and interior and the unprecedented use of materials such as steel and concrete, the agency said of the properties. Wrights architecture demonstrates an important interchange in the discourse that changed architecture on a global scale. Moravian Church Settlements UNESCO inscribed this transnational property in 2019, recognizing the scope and consistency of the international Moravian community. It includes properties in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Denmark, Germany and the United Kingdom. The Moravian Church is one of the oldest Protestant denominations in Christianity, dating back to the 15th century. It established the settlements according to overarching planning principles that reflected the ideals of the Moravian Church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bethlehems settlement was established in 1741, and it is the first permanent, best-preserved and most important in North America, the agency said. All four settlements inscribed include distinctive Moravian buildings, with a unique architectural style. The transnational series of Moravian Church settlements bears exceptional testimony to Moravian Church principles, which are expressed in their layouts, architecture and craftsmanship, as well as the fact that numerous buildings are still used for their original functions or for the continuation of Moravian Church activities and traditions, UNESCO said. Pennsylvania city celebrates UNESCO World Heritage designation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the Trump administration first pulled out from UNESCO in 2018, the National Park Service said it would continue its commitment to preserve and nominate historic properties, which does not require membership. It has not released a statement on the administrations latest plans. The withdrawal will take effect at the end of 2026, Azoulay 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 ABC27. The Pentagons inspector general has evidence that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pulled information on a plan to bomb Yemen from a document that was classified at the time, CNN and The Washington Post reported Wednesday, directly contradicting claims from the Trump administration. Hegseth was found to have texted the military plans back in March because another staffer accidentally added Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg to the Signal group chat. Goldberg reported on the bizarre experience after the bombing was completed. President Donald Trump has defended Hegseth, accepting his claim that the precise details of the military mission shared in the chat were not actually classified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the details reportedly came from a secure email marked SECRET/NOFORN, meaning that foreign nationals should not see its contents. It had been sent by Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, who oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East, the Post reported. The Signal group chat that Goldberg was part of included Vice President JD Vance, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Hegseth also reportedly shared similar details about the Yemen campaign in a second group chat that included his wife. The Pentagon announced in April that it was opening an investigation into Hegseths use of Signal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked for comment, chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell responded with snark. This Signal narrative is so old and worn out, its starting to resemble Joe Bidens mental state, Parnell said in an emailed statement to HuffPost. He said the Department of Defense stands behind what it has said no classified information was shared via Signal. As weve said repeatedly, nobody was texting war plans and the success of the Departments recent operations from Operation Rough Rider to Operation Midnight Hammer are proof that our operational security and discipline are top notch, Parnell concluded, naming the Yemen operation and a separate attack on Iran. Related... The Pentagon has issued new rules that would prevent people currently treated for schizophrenia, congestive heart failure, having a donated organ or some other issues from receiving a medical waiver to serve in the military, according to a new memo revealed Tuesday. The guidance, signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and dated July 11, updates the list of conditions that prevent potential recruits from joining the armed forces. The decision follows a review of the medical conditions that are currently eligible for a waiver, announced in April, as well as the Pentagons ban on transgender troops, enacted earlier this year. Americas warfighters must be physically and mentally capable of performing their duties in the harshest of conditions, Hegseth wrote in the memo. Severe underlying medical conditions introduce significant risks on the battlefield and threaten not only mission priorities, but also the health and safety of the affected individual and their fellow Service members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the medical issues that disqualify someone from serving is a history of cystic fibrosis, current chronic supplemental oxygen use, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, any suicidal attempt within the past 12 months, osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, and a history of paraphilic disorders defined as a persistent sexual interest in anything other than a legally consenting human partner. The memo also lists several conditions that require a waiver granted by the secretary of a military branch. Those include a previous heart attack, the presence of an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, a missing eye, hand or foot, past corneal transplants, liver failure, kidney disease requiring dialysis, neurodegenerative disorders and past psychotic disorders. Our high standards are a cornerstone of lethality, and the Department must remain vigilant in preserving those standards, Hegseth said. The military has long used waivers to enlist young people who might otherwise be unqualified for the armed forces due to medical or conduct issues, with only about 23 percent of young Americans eligible to enlist without some sort of waiver, Katie Helland, then the Pentagons director of military accession policy, said in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past decade, there has been a rise in medical waivers, with about 17 percent of recruits receiving them in 2022, up from 12 percent in 2013, according to a review by the DOD inspector general. The rise is partly attributed to the Pentagons 2022 expansion of medical conditions that no longer disqualify people from enlisting, including childhood asthma and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Waivers also were previously allowed for heart failure, current treatment for schizophrenia and a history of paraphilic disorders, now struck from the list under the Pentagons new rules. Hegseth has aggressively gone after anything deemed by the Trump administration as negatively impacting military readiness, including grooming and fitness standards and transgender troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pentagon began removing openly transgender service members from the military in June, after the Supreme Court ruled that the Department of Defense may enforce a policy that President Trump ordered in January. Unlike a policy enacted during Trumps first term that prevented most transgender people from serving but made an exception for troops who had already started their gender transition, the new policy offers virtually no leeway, deeming anyone with a current diagnosis, history or symptoms of gender dysphoria unfit for military service. Updated on July 23 at 6:12 a.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne has stated that the US Department of Defense is negotiating with several countries regarding the transfer of Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine. Source: Suspilne, citing an anonymous source within the US government Quote from Suspilnes source: "These will be separate agreements with separate countries." Details: The source said the US Department of Defense is in talks with several countries about possible bilateral agreements to supply American Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine. The process is currently at the negotiation stage and has no set deadline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The source did not specify the exact number of countries involved in the talks, their names or the timeline for fulfilling any agreements. Quote from Suspilnes source: "There are no specific dates or deadlines at this time." Details: The official said discussions with various countries are ongoing, aiming to determine who can provide what. In response to follow-up questions regarding the 17 Patriot systems previously announced by President Donald Trump, the Pentagon and State Department redirected these questions to the White House. Background: On 14 July, Trump again expressed dissatisfaction with Russia's actions and said that the United States would impose tough sanctions on Russia if no peace agreement was reached within 50 days. Trump also announced the transfer of up to 17 Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine in the near future. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! DENVER (KDVR) A proposed pedestrian bridge that would have connected Civic Center Park to the base of the Colorado Capitol building in celebration of Colorados 150th anniversary will not be built after the governors office received overwhelming results in a survey. According to the Colorado Governors Office, almost 94% of respondents (over 82,000 votes) were against the initiative. The results showed that over 3,000 voters (3.8%) were in favor of the project, while another 2,043 people (2.3%) voted maybe on the bridge. Hes desecrating memorials: Veterans group pushes back on Governors proposed bridge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The survey was open through midnight Monday. The project has drawn criticism from numerous groups, including veterans who said their monuments and memorials where the bridge would be located would be desecrated by the project. This exciting big anniversary for our state is an opportunity for Coloradans to celebrate together, and this survey was all about hearing exactly how we should do that, said Gov. Jared Polis in a release on Tuesday. Coloradans were clear, and I will stop the pedestrian walkway proposal in its tracks. If needed, I will chain myself to the Capitol plaza to prevent it from being built and will personally intervene to ensure we listen to Coloradans feedback. Coloradans have made our voices heard that the proposed pedestrian walkway is not how we want to celebrate our 150th anniversary. I look forward to engaging with the 250/150 commission on how best to celebrate Colorado and Americas anniversary. The governor was a vocal proponent of the project prior to the survey. The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway park landing rendering. (Courtesy of Studio Gang) The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway Lincoln Pass rendering. (Courtesy of Studio Gang) The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway canopy walk rendering. (Courtesy of Studio Gang) The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway aerial rendering. (Courtesy of Studio Gang) The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway as rendered by Studio Gang, StudioTrope, Mundus Bishop, and Olin and Thornton Thomasetti. (Renderings provided by the Colorado Governors Office) The walkway would have formed a loop in the northern part of Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park before crossing Lincoln Street and ending at the steps to the Colorado Capitol building. The idea was to showcase Colorado artists and history and also bridge city and state by connecting city lands to state lands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historic Denver, a nonprofit focused on preserving urban history, called the bridge functionally useless and wasteful, and said that Denver was not on board, so the bridge was then planned to connect state land to state land. Historic Denver welcomes the Governors decision not to proceed with the planned bridge over Lincoln Street, the group said in a statement provided shortly after the governors announcement. Civic Center is one of the most historic spaces in the city, being both a local Historic District and the only National Historic Landmark within the city limits, Historic Denver continued. Changes and additions to the space need to be considered with care and it has been heartening to see the public reaction in recent weeks. We hope that attention can shift to celebrating Colorados 150th anniversary next year and that this can involve the activation and reinvigoration of Civic Center at ground level. Other criticisms of the project included the cost, which was estimated to cost over $20 million. Advertisement 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. WMBD/WYZZ weekend anchor and reporter Shabnam Danesh has signed off from the Peoria, Illinois CBS affiliate. This wasn't a decision I made lightly, Danesh said. Over the past four and a half years, I've truly grown to love central Illinois. It's hard to leave behind a supportive newsroom filled with amazing coworkers, meaningful friendships, and a loyal viewership that has always been kind and encouraging, both on and off camera. Danesh joined the station in 2021 after graduating from American University in Washington, D.C., with a master's degree in journalism and public affairs. The Peoria Journal-Star said Danesh worked as a criminal justice researcher and legal administrator before her local tv career. She also has a master's degree in criminal justice, a bachelor's degree in psychology, and a paralegal certificate. Danesh said she wants to be closer to her family in Rhode Island and has accepted an on-air reporter position on the east coast. July 22 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump said the United States has struck a trade deal with the Philippines following a White House meeting with the island nation's President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Trump announced the deal in Truth Social post on Tuesday that he said involves the Philippines dropping all tariffs on imported U.S. products. As part of the deal, the tariff rate of goods imported from the Philippines into the United States will be 19%, just slightly lower than the 20% levy Trump outlined in a letter earlier this month. It's also higher than the 17% that Trump imposed on the Philippines as part of his Liberation Day tariffs announced in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his post, Trump described the meeting as a "beautiful visit" and called Marcos a "very good, and tough, negotiator." The Philippine government has not confirmed the deal or issued any statement on the results of the talks. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will visit President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday.Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI The meeting was the first of its kind between an Association of Southeast Asian Nations head of state and Trump since his return to the U.S. presidency. The Philippines was one of the many countries who faced a Trump-imposed tariff increase by Aug. 1. Marcos was expected to utilize his nation's strong relationship with the United States to improve the trade deal between the two countries. The Philippines, one of the many countries who face a tariff hike on Aug. 1, will be subject to a 20% levy as per the letter President Donald Trump sent out earlier this month. . Photo by Yuri Gripas/UPI Marcos' visit has also focused on defense and security, which was discussed Monday as he visited the Pentagon. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Marcos, and in a Defense Department press release, it was stated the two "reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty and discussed shared security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as recent advances in the long-standing U.S.-Philippines alliance." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our storied alliance has never been stronger or more essential than it is today," said Hegseth in the release. "Together, we remain committed to the mutual defense treaty." President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s visit has also focused on defense and security, which was discussed Monday as he visited the Pentagon. Photo by Yuri Gripas/UPI "And this pact extends to armed attacks on our armed forces, aircraft or public vessels, including our Coast Guard, anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea," continued Hegseth. Marcos also met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said in an X post Monday that they discussed "how the [United States] and the Philippines are strengthening our ironclad Alliance to advance our shared safety, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific." Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said in an X post Monday that they discussed "how the [United States] and the Philippines are strengthening our ironclad Alliance to advance our shared safety, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific." Photo by Yuri Gripas/UPI As for any meeting with representatives of the American Filipino community, the press release notes Marcos won't be able to, due to his tight schedule. Jul. 23Just four years after opening, one local eatery is branching out with new locations around the southeast. Philly Italian Pasta and Subs first opened in Canton in 2021. Now, the business is beginning the process of franchising, with plans to expand into Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham before stretching out into South Carolina and Tennessee. "I'm having fun with this. The fact that I'm franchising is even more exciting," said Howard Knepper, owner of the Canton establishment. "I really think this thing is going to fly." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Philly Italian Pasta and Subs 2021 opening represents Knepper's first whack at the restaurant game. He also owns a small motel in Canton. But one lifelong friend runs what Knepper describes as "an old iconic sub shop in Atlantic City." "They are without question the No. 1 sub shop anywhere on the planet. All their subs were given to the stars like Frank Sinatra," Knepper said. That friendship inspired him to give the same thing a shot in Canton. When he decided to start the shop, restaurants began closing down due to Covid. That made the decision to make the restaurant carry-out-only an easy one. It was also an added advantage when it comes to franchising. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I always thought takeout was the way to go," Knepper said. "For a franchisee, you want to make it simple. We designed the kitchen simple. We designed it where they can get the stuff out fast, and it's top-quality stuff." In fact, just about everything that the restaurant does was implemented with the idea of eventually franchising. "I decided to put something together that would be easy to ... be consistent," Knepper said. "I always had franchising on my mind, but it took four years to build the brand." That brand was key to Knepper. For the first few years of the business, Knepper tried to personally answer the phone whenever a takeout order was called in even if he was out of state. He also puts an emphasis on creating relationships with his customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the interview with The Mountaineer, numerous customers came by the restaurant. Every time, Knepper made sure to greet them and ask about their day. "The owner is part of what sells the place," said Canton resident Rachel Davis, who frequents the establishment. "Howard is awesome. He's a New Yorker that loves where we are. He has this motel here. He has put his entire retirement into this place and it shows." A key part of the Philly Italian brand is the balance between cost, taste and the amount of food you get. Hefty portions are key. "Nobody wants to get a little bit of something that tastes good," Knepper said. "You have to give a huge sub that's really good at a great price. That combination works." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Knepper is confident in the business, he's most confident in the product he's putting out. He offers a free replacement if someone doesn't like a meal and he never has to replace meals, he said. He also noted that building trust with his customers is a crucial part of how he operates. "If you're going to franchise, you have to have a lot of perseverance and believe in the product. But believing in the product yourself is not enough," Knepper said. "It really has to be there. You have to be realistic because it has to be a product that is really good stuff." The restaurant has achieved this by chasing the highest quality ingredients. While much of the food is delivered fully cooked and ready to be quickly prepared, it's not the cheap stuff you'd find in the freezer section at Walmart. Knepper ships his steak in from Philadelphia and his sauce in from Italy, something he is particularly proud of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What makes an Italian restaurant is the tomatoes and the spices can not be grown anywhere in the United States because the soil and the climate in southern Italy produces a special marinara," Knepper said. With the sauce figured out, he was able to think about the rest of the menu. "We were able to move on to other fantastic items like the meatball sub, which is beef, pork and veal," Knepper said. "That's difficult to get that into a takeout situation." And it's an extensive menu. With everything from pizza and pasta to subs and cheesecake, Philly Italian has a bit of everything to offer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knepper prides himself on his menu's options, but also its flavors and the consistency of those flavors. Now, he's turning his attention towards delivering those flavors elsewhere. While he can still be found at his Canton location chatting with every customer that comes through, he's putting a lot of work into making sure that franchising works out. "After four years, we were able to finally get the proper federal documents that you need to sell franchises. It's a big deal to do that," Knepper said. "It was very expensive, but we were able to put it together. Because of our reviews and the brand being strong and hard-working employees, we were able to get our first franchise sold and underway." He's been putting in that hard work for years not only in building his brand, but in trying things out. Just a few years ago, Knepper licensed out his brand to someone in Atlanta to test things out. That business operates under the name Atlanta Philly Italian Pasta and Subs. "He's doing very well. He's off the charts," Knepper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He's also signed a franchise in Atlanta giving him two restaurants in the Big Peach soon. The Canton location is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:30 to 6 p.m. on Sundays. They encourage call-in orders, particularly in the evenings. Knepper did have one last piece of advice for anyone digging into his subs. "The best way is to make a mess," Knepper said. "Just bite into it. You'll really enjoy it more that way." Jeffrey Epstein attended Donald Trumps wedding to Marla Maples in 1993 at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, as seen in photos published Tuesday by CNN. The photos had not been widely reported before, though Trumps friendship with Epstein was well-known. The relationship between the two men has reentered the spotlight after Trumps presidential administration refused to release additional documents about criminal investigations into Epstein. The notorious financier and pedophile died by suicide in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The images obtained by CNN show Epstein entering the wedding festivities and in the background of another photo during the program. When asked about the pictures, Trump told CNN, Youve got to be kidding me. Trump and Epstein have been photographed and filmed together dating back to at least 1992, though their relationship reportedly collapsed in the mid-2000s over a real estate deal in Palm Beach, Fla. Epstein was first publicly accused of sexually assaulting underage girls in 2005, and he pleaded guilty in 2008 to procuring a child for prostitution, though he cut a sweetheart plea deal at the time. He was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. Throughout his life, Epstein maintained relationships with many popular and powerful men, including Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew and Bill Gates. He once claimed Trump first slept with his now-wife, Melania, onboard his private plane, which was dubbed the Lolita Express. PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A bridge in Pickens County collapsed Monday afternoon, prompting an immediate shutdown of Crowe Creek Road. According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation, the bridge was built in 1968 and was already scheduled for replacement due to its age and design. Billy Gibson, the director of Pickens County Emergency Management, said it was being used as a detour while crews worked on SC-183. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now our detour to the detour is shut down, he said. So, thats going to increase that secondary traffic even more. After the collapse, Gibson said his team began mapping alternate emergency response routes. Within a half hour, we had already made our route changes, and our response model changes with our surrounding fire departments, our EMS stations, as well as our dispatch center, he said. Gibson said that while the local fire departments may be impacted by the route changes, the public will not. It kind of throws us off just a little bit because in our minds, we have preconceived routes for everywhere that we go, he explained. We have to kind of think just a little bit differently. The good thing is having tools such as the computer dispatch helps with that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luckily, Gibson said the area has multiple fire departments located closely together, which should minimize any increase to response times. We were already working around the detour on [Highway] 183 and will continue to work around this one as well, and make sure were able to provide the quickest and most efficient service to our folks, Gibson said. Detour Routes Traffic heading south on Crowe Creek Road: Drivers heading south on Crowe Creek Road will take Shady Grove Road to Walhalla Highway (SC-183). Traffic will head left onto Walhalla Highway (SC-183) before turning right onto Allgood Bridge Road. Head south on Allgood Bridge Road to Walhalla Highway (SC-183). Drivers will the turn left onto Walhalla Highway and at after four miles turn right back onto Crowe Creek Road. Traffic heading north on Crowe Creek Road: Motorists traveling north on Crowe Creek Road will take Walhalla Highway (SC-183) toward Pickens to Allgood Bridge Road. They will turn right and follow Allgood Bridge Road to the intersection of Walhalla Highway (SC-183), which drivers will then turn back left towards Shady Grove Road. Motorists will continue west on Shady Grove Road until they reach Crowe Creek Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said that the detour length is approximately 22.3 miles, and that the bridge closure could last for months. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Germany's pilots have designated Leipzig-Halle as the country's safest airport, according to the Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) pilots' union. In their annual airport check, published on Wednesday, the pilots praised the exemplary lighting systems on Leipzig-Halle's runways. This includes stop bars illuminated throughout the day at the access points to prevent collisions on the runways. Munich, the previous front-runner, slipped to second place in the current evaluation because the stop bars there are not in operation all day. A VC spokesman said it is a common problem at German airports that the existing strips are usually only activated by air traffic control in conditions of poor visibility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pilots are calling for backups to be installed for the US GPS system, which they say are more often disrupted - for example by jamming - due to geopolitical tensions, such as the war in Ukraine. Lubeck Airport replaced Mannheim Airport at the bottom of the safety table. Pilots in Lubeck were unhappy that they were not invited to safety meetings. They also complained that there were no sufficiently secured open areas with a length of 300 metres at the ends of the runway. The Vereinigung Cockpit working group has been conducting annual safety checks at German commercial airports since 1978. The investigation is based on a list of criteria that includes both international regulations and additional measures that pilots consider useful. PINE BLUFF, Ark. Pine Bluff Fire and Emergency Services officials are urging caution as a heatwave settles into Arkansas. The department is opening cooling centers at all of its fire stations during this time. Officials stated that the centers will be open from 1 to 6 p.m. Pine Bluff partners with out-of-state company to form economic development plan Station locations: Station No. 1, 200 East 8th Ave. Station No. 2, 2120 West Pullen Station No. 3, 601 W. 32nd Station No. 4, 3609 Market St. Station No. 5, 3700 Miramar Station No. 6, 1805 Moreland Station No. 7, 2208 Ridgeway Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents can come by, get a drink of cold water, officials said, and have their vitals checked. Each station will also offer seating and access to electrical outlets for charging devices. City of Pine Bluff partners with youth ministry to support at-risk youth Our hopes are to identify individuals in the early stages of heat exhaustion and to possibly get them the necessary attention they need, said Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Chief Randy Compton. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Pittsburgh Police are asking for the publics help in locating a missing man. SVU detectives are trying to find Pastor Rodriguez-Rivera Jr., 77, who they say was last seen in the 1000 block of Herron Avenue on Sunday. Rodriguez-Rivera Jr. is described as 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing around 130 pounds. He has white/grey hair and brown eyes. Police say he speaks both English and Spanish, but prefers Spanish. If you see Rodriguez-Rivera Jr., youre asked to call 412-323-7141 or 911. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A Pittsfield man has been arrested in connection with a structure fire on Fourth Street early Tuesday morning. Sky ride malfunction at Southwicks Zoo leaves visitors stuck in midair Pittsfield Police Lieutenant John Soules stated in a news release that at approximately 3:10 a.m. on Tuesday, officers and firefighters were called to a two-family home on Fourth Street for reports of a fire. While all occupants were able to safely evacuate, a family cat was found to have died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the investigation, Pittsfield police identified a suspect in connection with the fire. Officers located and arrested 23-year-old Hunter Barrett and charged him with Arson of a Dwelling. Barrett is scheduled to be arraigned in Berkshire District Court on Wednesday. The Pittsfield Police Department, Pittsfield Fire Department, and Massachusetts State Police Fire Investigation Team are continuing to investigate the incident. 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 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. PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A suspect is in custody after a shooting on Dalton Avenue in Pittsfield Tuesday night. Springfield man charged with gun and drug offenses after threat Pittsfield Police Lieutenant John Mazzeo stated in a news release that at approximately 8:57 p.m. on Tuesday, officers received a ShotSpotter activation in the area of 63 Dalton Avenue for a single gunshot. As police were arriving in the area, the department received several reports of a person being shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When police arrived at the location, they found the victim with a single gunshot wound. The individual was brought to Berkshire Medical Center to be treated for a non-life-threatening injury, and has since been released. The suspect is now in custody. The suspects name has not been released and is scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday in Central Berkshire District Court. 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. CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A pivotal hearing will be held on Wednesday morning to determine the future of health care in Clarksville. Both TriStar Health and Ascension Saint Thomas are vying to open new hospitals in the area. However, theyll need state approval to do so. PREVIOUS | Closing arguments underway in a Clarksville health care battle We have a lot of confidence the program that weve designed, in partnership with the community, will meet the health care needs of the community and reduce that out-migration, Ascension Saint Thomas President and CEO Fahad Tahir told News 2 on Tuesday. Im glad its being acknowledged that half of Montgomery County residents are choosing to travel outside of the county to receive their care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter from Tennova leaders, obtained by our partners at Clarksville Now, they said they dont think the two new hospitals prevent area patients from seeking health care outside of Clarksville. They also mention concerns over retaining staff. Yet both Ascension and TriStar are doubling down on their efforts to bring new options to Clarksville. We already have 500 nurses who live in Clarksville and work at our hospitals but have to make long commutes, many of whom are military veterans or military family members. And so, for us, this is an opportunity to create a hospital that will allow very talented and very important members of our team to take care of their own friends and family close to home, TriStar Health Senior Vice President for Strategy and Development David Whelan said. Before TriStar or Ascension can break ground, theyll need a Certificate of Need from the state. Wednesday morning, both companies are offering help getting residents to a 9 a.m. hearing that will help determine that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clarksvillians who feel they would like more hospital options are welcome to voice that at the Cordell Hull State Office Building in downtown Nashville. People are choosing to make that difficult drive when they dont feel good to Nashville to have access to care and we feel like we can make that easier for patients by bringing Saint Thomas to the community within Clarksville Montgomery County, Tahir said. Ascension Saint Thomas is coordinating a caravan at the Exit 11 Park n Ride, leaving by 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. TriStar will offer a bus ride, leaving the Mosaic Church. Residents are asked to arrive by 7:45 a.m. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com So, were excited to be on the north side of town, near the military base, near the industrial park, where so much new housing has been built, Whelan said. We feel like that really stands out as a reason for our hospital to be approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesdays 9 a.m. hearing will take place in Senate Room 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 WKRN News 2. Despite the continuous presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in cities around California, organizers in Riverside have decided to forge ahead with the third edition of the Mucho Gusto Music Festival, an event held in the downtown area that's billed as "a celebration of music without borders." The announcement comes as other events catering to Latinx audiences across Southern California have been forced to implement extra security measures because of potential ICE raids, or have been postponed altogether. Levitt LA, which organizes an annual summer concert series at the Levitt Pavilion in MacArthur Park, announced earlier this month that it was prepared to change venues if needed. Festival Chapin de Los Angeles, a popular two-day celebration of Guatemalan culture held in the Westlake neighborhood, has been postponed from late August to mid October. Authorities have arrested more than 2,700 individuals since the raids began in June, according to Homeland Security . Many of the immigration enforcement operations have been carried out in predominantly Latinx neighborhoods and cities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , 54% of Riverside's population identifies as Hispanic or Latinx. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its important right now that we put our money within our local economy to support each other, said Eduardo Valencia, Mucho Gusto's artistic director and one of the founders of the festival. We [needed] a place to celebrate ourselves to be in a space that really celebrates the fact that we are [a diaspora of] people, that we are people from other countries who immigrated [to the U.S.], he added. This year's all-ages festival will be headlined by two bands that blend cumbia rhythms with psychedelic melodies, Tropa Magica and Combo Chimbita , as well as jazz band Brainstory. Cosme Cordova, owner of art gallery Division 9 and co-organizer of the festival, said that he believes the ICE raids are bringing people together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are gathering and becoming stronger and more educated about the laws and the rules," he said. Mucho Gusto organizers are hiring private security and will have two officers on site to ensure a safe space for the community. "2025 is the year of arts and culture in Riverside," Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson told The Times. "Riverside loves its festivals; they represent the heart of our community, bring people together, and celebrate the cultures that make our city unique. Our focus is, and will always be, on ensuring that all public events in Riverside, including Mucho Gusto, are safe, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Facebook post from June 12, the chief of police, Larry Gonzalez, said the department will not enforce immigration laws and is dedicated to "protect the members of [the Riverside] community." "The trust weve built with our residents and businesses matters deeply to us, and we remain firmly committed to your safety and well-being," he added. Get our Latinx Files newsletter for stories that capture the complexity of our communities. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The plane crash that killed the husband of former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) was overloaded with moose meat, according to a Tuesday report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Eugene Peltola Jr. was flying solo almost two years ago in a Piper PA-18-150 small aircraft that was loaded with 117 pounds, measuring 6 percent over its maximum takeoff weight, the agency reported. It was so heavy that, even after consuming fuel enroute, the airplane still would have been about 180 lbs over its maximum landing weight upon reaching the destination, the agency said of the Sept. 23, 2023, crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peltola was transporting meat from St. Marys for a group of five hunters after successfully hunting a moose. His first trip was uneventful, but the second flight struggled to take off, partially because the animals antlers were strapped to the outside of the plane, the NTSB wrote in its report. Although the practice of carrying antlers externally is common in Alaska, it requires prior approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, as outlined by the NTSB. Following the accident, the cargo was examined and weighed, revealing a load of about 520 lbs that consisted primarily of moose meat and the set of antlers. About 150 lbs of meat was found in the forward section of the belly pod; the remaining portions were secured in the rear cabin seating area. The antlers were secured to the inboard side of the right wing strut, the NTSB said. There was no evidence that any of the meat had shifted in flight, and the antlers remained firmly attached to the wing strut and were not interfering with any of the flight control cables, the agency added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators found that Peltolas plane was manufactured 70 years before the accident and underwent multiple major repairs so that almost none of the original airplane existed. However, the ultimate cause of death was from blunt force injuries. Onlookers rushed to help Peltola after the crash but without extensive medical treatment, authorities said he was unlikely to survive. Given the remote location of the accident site, which was about 400 miles from a hospital, and accessible only by air, providing the pilot with prompt medical treatment following the accident was not possible, the NTSB said. Peltola had received his commercial license nearly two decades prior to the crash and worked for years at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Advertisement 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. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Planned Parenthood celebrated the successful opening of a new clinic in Brighton even in the face of major federal funding cuts. Supporters, staff, and state leaders celebrated at the Westfall Park Medical Center on South Clinton Avenue. As News 8 has reported, the Planned Parenthood facilities in the area are providing services to Medicaid patients at no cost. This is due to a new a new law that barred Planned Parenthood from participating in the federal Medicaid program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although a judge has so far sided with Planned Parenthood in the legal fight, those who run the facilities in Central and Western New York have decided not to bill Medicaid patients for now. At PPCWNY, we are proud to increase coverage for our patients as well as our new health center here in Brighton and our commitment to continue serving people despite their insurance status and ability to pay, PPCWNY President and CEO Michelle Casey said. Planned Parenthood said it is moving forward with or without federal support. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TYLER, Texas (KETK) Planned Parenthood in Tyler is now closed as all in-clinic services ended at the center on July 17. According to their website, all Tyler area patients will still have access to services by making a telemed appointment. Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas talked about transitioning Tyler area services to telehealth options after serving nearly 75,000 patients last year. Planned Parenthood wins partial victory in legal fight with Trump administration over funding cuts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For 90 years, Texans have relied on Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas for essential sexual and reproductive healthcare and education, Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas said. This year, we made the strategic decision to transition healthcare services in the Tyler area to telehealth via the Greater Texas Virtual Health Center and close our health center on Turtle Creek Drive for in-person appointments. KETK News spoke with State Rep. Brent Money (R-Greenville), who said Planned Parenthood centers are closing down due to the strong laws against abortion in Texas. Now he is looking to stop Texas women from obtaining abortions either by driving out of state or obtaining abortion pills through the mail. About half of them are people who leave Texas and go get a surgical abortion in another state. About half of them are through abortion pills, pills that are ordered online or through a telemedicine doctor and shipped directly to the mothers home. She takes those pills and has an abortion in her own home, Money said. We just havent addressed the underlying fundamental problem, which is we need to recognize that we need our laws to reflect what I think that most Texans already believe, which is that abortion is murder and we shouldnt have abortion in Texas. What to know about states blocking Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Bishop of the Diocese of Tyler Joseph Strickland released a statement after the center shut down. Let us pray that these centers that promote death will continue to close across the country. Pray for all the pro-life pregnancy centers that will be assisting mothers seeking help, Francis said. Mark Lee Dickson, Director of the Right to Life Across Texas, calls the closure a good riddance. Never again will this horrible place refer pregnant mothers to Planned Parenthood Pittsburg Health Center in Pittsburg, Kansas or Planned Parenthood Wichita Health Center in Wichita, Kansas or any other abortion facility in America. Praise God. There is still much work to be done in the great state of Texas, Dickson said. Pray also for the Texas Legislature and cities and counties across our states as they consider legislation further protecting pregnant mothers and their unborn children from the tragedy of abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the statement to KETK News, Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas said they served Texas women by providing 133,000 appointments for birth control, including IUDs and implants, breast and cervical cancer screenings, annual wellness exams, STI testing and treatment, menopause services, pregnancy testing, treatment for UTIs, HIV tests, and HPV vaccines. Those looking for in-person visits at a Planned Parenthood location will now have to travel to Dallas or Paris, Texas, the closest locations to Tyler. For more information, people are asked to visit the Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas 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 KETK.com | FOX51.com. ST. GEORGE, Utah (ABC4) Some residents in St. George are concerned about a planned apartment building that is part of the Tech Ridge project. They came to a meeting at city hall on Tuesday to share those concerns. The Tech Ridge project is located on the former St. George Airport site, and it is a mixed-use development designed to draw tech companies to the area and help them attract and retain talent, according to their website. It will combine office and retail spaces with residential housing. One new measles case in Utah, bringing total cases to 11 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was a public meeting at St. George City Hall on Tuesday to discuss the apartment building, and ABC4.com spoke with residents to find out why its controversial and why others are supporting the development. Development is the lifeblood of my business, so Im definitely not gonna stand here and be like we dont want growth. We need growth, I get that, I just feel like this is not the location for that building that close to the city park there, and that close to the traditional residential neighborhood that is already existing there, Nearby resident Emily Murphy told ABC4.com. This particular apartment building is planned to be five stories tall with 199 units. As a neighborhood up there, weve gotten involved before when we almost lost the city park in 2018. We found out, totally happenstance, that they were gonna be taking that park as part of Tech Ridge, and we came out in force and saved the park, Murphy explained. And now this is happening right behind the park, and were just not happy about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The residential portion of the Tech Ridge project will offer townhomes, apartments, and condos, in addition to trails, parks, and open spaces, according to the website. 60 acres will be devoted to trails and parks, one third of the development. A map of the planned Tech Ridge development, courtesy: Tech Ridge While some are expressing concern about the location of the apartments, others are optimistic about the economic impact the Tech Ridge project will have on St. George. Jill Hunt, another nearby resident, said, Mostly, if we can develop opportunities for our kids to have high-paying jobs, they can stay here and be able to afford to live here. Thats one of the biggest complaints a lot of people have, that their kids cant stay here and afford to live here. Well, these are the ways that happens. We bring in these high-paying jobs, and while theyre doing that, they need a place to live. According to the Tech Ridge website, the construction of the project will provide nearly 25,000 jobs, and in the long term, it will create nearly 16,000 jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is just one development of the many phases of [Tech Ridge] to provide housing for tech jobs, Hunt added. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Wild horses and burros have become fixtures in the American West ever since Europeans brought the animals over. They remain an important part of our culture today, which is why federal law protects them from harm and harassment on certain federal lands. That same law also requires the government to maintain a balance on Western rangelands by managing public-land horse and burro populations at sustainable levels. Without management, free-ranging horses compete with native game like deer and elk, contribute to erosion, and hog valuable water. But what if some people dont want to see these animals managed? And what happens when those populations balloon beyond our control? We may soon find out: according to the governments own figures, we might already be there. The work itself, the gathering and removing of horses and burros, falls mostly to government contractors. These are often working cowboys and cowgirls people like Jackie Hughes, who has a contract with the U.S. Forest Service to remove unauthorized, free-ranging horses from the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gathering these horses, its not a John Wayne movie, Hughes tells OL in this weeks episode of the Outdoor Life Podcast. Read Next: Beasts of Burden: Wild Horses and Burros Are Dying Hard Deaths in the West In reality, Hughes says, its more of a grind an extremely controversial one, at that. In the last four years that Hughes and her cowboys have worked the national forest lands, theyve been sabotaged, sued, threatened, and villainized by a passionate and powerful group of horse advocates. These are some of the same individuals and organizations that have filed lawsuits against the federal government to thwart its attempts at managing horses and burros on public land. So, why does Hughes keep at it? This is one of the things we discuss in this weeks episode of the Outdoor Life Podcast. We talk about how Hughes and her cowboys gather horses on national forest land, and we touch on the effects these herds are having on Arizonas wildlife and natural resources. We also get into the larger debates around horse management that are playing out across the West today. Listen to this weeks episode on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Podcaster Candace Owens Sued By President of France and First Lady Over Shocking Claims originally appeared on Parade. French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron have filed a defamation lawsuit against conservative podcast host Candace Owens. According to Reuters, the Macrons are citing a sustained campaign of falsehoods and public harassment. Filed in Delaware Superior Court on Wednesday, the 22-count complaint accuses Owens of engaging in a campaign of global humiliation through repeated and baseless claims about Frances First Lady including that Brigitte, 72, was born male and is living under a false identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source close to Owens told Parade that the podcaster will be addressing the lawsuit on her show Wednesday afternoon. The source also claims that Owens was never served papers by the court, and that Owens had reached out to the Macrons several times to comment on her claims, but they never responded. "People close to her see this as a free speech issue," the source said. "She's an independent journalist being targeted by a foreign government." France's President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron. (LUDOVIC MARIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) According to the suit, Owens promoted these claims to grow her audience and monetize outrage. "Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications," the complaint said. "It is invasive, dehumanizing, and deeply unjust." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit states that Owens has been sharing the accusations across her social media platforms and through a video series on YouTube, referring to Brigitte Macron as Jean-Michel Trogneux, the name of her older brother, and has further promoted unverified accusations of fraud and other crimes. No credible evidence has ever supported these claims, and the French government has previously dismissed them as false, Reuters pointed out. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. As of Wednesday afternoon, the lawsuit is moving forward in Delaware. Podcaster Candace Owens Sued By President of France and First Lady Over Shocking Claims first appeared on Parade on Jul 23, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk unveiled a new Cabinet line-up on Wednesday, aiming to breathe new life into his centrist government before right-wing populist Karol Nawrocki takes office as president. Tusk said he was rebooting his government in order to safeguard national order, external security and Poland's future. Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski, one of the country's most popular politicians according to polls, was also given the role of deputy prime minister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tusk appears to be positioning Sikorski as a potential successor, the daily Rzeczpospolita said. At the Interior Ministry, Marcin Kierwinski will replace Tomasz Siemoniak, who remains in the Cabinet as the coordinator of special services. Tusk also announced the creation of two super ministries as part of a broader government reorganization. A new Ministry of Energy will be formed from parts of the existing climate, environment and industry portfolios, to be led by Miosz Motyka. The Finance and Economy ministries will merge under the leadership of Andrzej Domanski. The reshuffle will reduce the number of ministries from 26 to 21, Tusk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tusk is trying to regain political footing as President-elect Nawrocki, a staunch EU sceptic, is set to take office on August 6. Polish presidents hold the power to veto legislation, and Nawrocki is expected to wield that authority even more aggressively than his predecessor, Andrzej Duda another conservative who clashed with Tusk's pro-European coalition. Nawrocki's presidency could mark a significant shift in both domestic and foreign policy for the EU and NATO member state. Coalition strains mount Tusk is also grappling with mounting tensions within his unwieldy coalition, which spans three electoral alliances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bloc has struggled to deliver on many of its 2023 campaign pledges, including liberalizing abortion laws and reforming the judiciary to strengthen the rule of law. "The dispute must end," Tusk warned on Wednesday. "All coalition partners must understand that unity is expected." The conservative opposition, led by the former ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party and its right-wing allies, has rebounded in the polls. Last month, police in the northern Indian state of Haryana arrested a local resident for allegedly trying to illegally rebuild a 1.5-kilometer stretch of road through a protected forested area, the Aravalli Hills, as reported by the Hindustan Times. The police identified the arrested man as Saikul Khan, a resident of the Basai Meo village. His accomplice was still at large at the time of reporting. Khan and his accomplice were allegedly cutting rocks and refilling the pathway within the forest, which has been described as ecologically sensitive. "These are clear attempts to subvert forest protection and facilitate illegal access for mining. We acted promptly and will not tolerate such violations," said Vineet Kumar Garg, principal chief conservator of forests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Aravallis stretch across several states, forming a natural barrier that shields New Delhi and surrounding regions from desertification, the Re Soil Foundation explained. They help regulate India's temperature (as explained here by Geeks for Geeks), support wildlife, and help combat the region's deadly air pollution. The mountain range is also responsible for providing fresh water to many communities, according to Chahal Academy, and is one of the oldest geological features on the planet, dating back over two billion years, as reported by The New Indian Express. "The Aravallis are not just ancient hillsthey are the lungs of North India," said environmental activist Vaishali Rana, per Hindustan Times. "Every tree felled and every illegal encroachment weakens our ecological future. Roads through these hills are not only illegal but also fragment a critical eco-sensitive zone." Despite playing such an important role in addition to multiple court orders and environmental protections, the Aravalli Hills have fallen victim to illegal road construction, deforestation, mining, and even urbanization, the Re Soil Foundation revealed. It's easy to see the parallels to the United States, considering the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains, to name a few. Whether it's India's Aravallis or lands in the U.S., our forests and wetlands are under significant threat and need the protection of the law to remain safe from deforestation and urban development. And even when protections are in place, it's crucial to enforce them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What can you do? Take action by supporting local and global conservation groups, pushing for stricter land protection policies near you, and voting for leaders who prioritize the nature around us. Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. 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. NEWBURY, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) Troopers from the Vermont State Police, St. Johnsbury Barracks, said Tuesday evening that they were asking for information on a theft. The theft at P&H Truck Stop in Newbury was reported to authorities at about 4:45 p.m. Tuesday. Three chainsaws, a fishing pole and tackle bag were reportedly taken from the bed of a Toyota Tundra that was parked at the back lot since 5:40 that morning. The truck was being operated by a man from Haverhill, New Hampshire. The items taken were reportedly valued at more than $1,000 in total. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Johnsbury man charged for knocking out parkgoer from behind Anyone with information on the theft is directed to call Trooper Rodzel at (802) 222-4680 extension 8, or to submit an anonymous tip online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 find body of 22-year-old student missing from La Crosse originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A 22-year-old graduate student has been found dead in the Mississippi River at the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, days after she went missing from downtown La Crosse. The La Crosse Police Department announced Wednesday afternoon that Eliotte Heinz's body was recovered from the Mississippi River near Brownsville, Minn. She had been missing since early Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron issued this statement: "This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search. Our thoughts are with Eliottes family, friends and all those who knew Eliotte. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin and nationally to locate Eliotte." The Houston County Sheriffs Department informed the La Crosse Police Department around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday that a body had been located amid an ongoing search for Heinz, which involved drones and dive teams. An investigation is ongoing. Heinz's official cause of death has not yet been determined, but preliminary autopsy results have led police to believe there was no foul play, the department said Friday. Eliotte HeinzLa Crosse Police Department Heinz was last seen in downtown La Crosse walking southbound on the 500 Block of Front Street South, near the Mississippi River, just before 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to police. She's believed to have been at Bronco's bar at about 2:30 a.m. and heading home when she disappeared about an hour later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heinz is 54 and 120 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was wearing a white T-shirt and jean shorts when she went missing. Heinz, who's originally from the Fox Cities in east-central Wisconsin, attended Viterbo University in La Crosse. The university community helped Heinz's family search the area and put up fliers. Heinz's family issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon via Viterbo University's Facebook page. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. Police officers in Alabama who were involved in the arrest of a man who died while handcuffed were not at fault, officials said, disputing an account from the mans family who are calling for the officers to be charged. Police employed no excessive force in the events leading up to the August 2024 arrest and death of Phillip Reeder, 52, the City of Irondale and its police department said in a joint statement late Monday. The Birmingham suburbs announcement came hours after attorneys for Reeders family shared a county coroners report that said Reeders death was a homicide caused by a combination of his heart disease, cocaine, injuries, and exertion from the altercation with police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for the family said an police officer kneeled on Reeders neck and compared what happened to Reeder with what happened to George Floyd in 2020 an incident that captured the countrys attention and renewed scrutiny of police practices. Reeder was white; Floyd was Black. In autopsies, the term homicide has a medical definition that is different from a criminal one. In a medical context, homicide means that a death is caused at the hands of another person, but does not necessarily mean someone is criminally guilty. Both the police department and Reeders wife, Sandra Lee Reeder, agree that police officers were dispatched to a local highway just after 5 a.m. on Aug. 6, 2024, after multiple 911 complaints of a man behaving erratically and running into traffic. Reeder continued to run in the road, shouting, when officers approached him, ignoring multiple commands to comply, the city statement said. Officers then shocked Reeder with a Taser, saying he posed a danger to himself and others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After officers handcuffed him, Mr. Reeder continued to struggle and resist for almost two minutes, the statement read. Officers used their arms to restrain Reeder, it said, but No knee was placed in the back of his neck, and no excessive force was used. The statement emphasized that Reeder had a history of hypertensive heart disease, which the coroner said contributed to his death. The statement underscored the portion of the autopsy that said the blunt force injuries alone would not account for Mr. Reeders death. It also said that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the state agency tasked with investigating the incident, found no wrongdoing and that the Jefferson County District Attorney didnt see evidence sufficient for criminal charges against the officers involved. Reeders wife, Sandra Lee Reeder, offered an account Monday that was starkly different. She and her attorney say they saw body camera footage of the incident on July 18, after almost a year of asking the city and police department for more information on Reeders death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video showed no attempt from the Irondale police officers to talk Phillip down, Reeders wife said at a news conference. She said that her husband was unarmed and was suffering from a mental health crisis. Sandra Lee Reeder said an officer put a knee on Reeders neck for approximately three minutes after he was shocked with the Taser. She said her husband can be heard saying I cant breathe three times while he was restrained. The body camera footage has not been released publicly because of an Alabama law that governs release of police recordings. The law says an agency may choose to not disclose a recording to the public if it would affect an active law enforcement investigation, but does not require an agency to provide a reason for denying a request. Reeders family attorney, Roderick Van Daniel, has urged authorities to release the bodycam video to the public. Advertisement 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 WDHN - wdhn.com. CHICAGO Chicago Police Department brass accused Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration of deliberately slowing down paychecks for dozens of employees this summer in a fiery email that warned the city was jeopardizing its compliance with the federal consent decree. Police Department Deputy Director Ryan Fitzsimons emailed multiple officials in Johnsons budget office June 2 to alert them of the departments overdue A-forms, paperwork required to process paychecks for new hires and promotions. After following up the next day to confirm that police recruits were not getting their first paychecks, he sent an additional message June 10 saying Johnsons budget office was purposely sitting on the forms. Given that we discussed at length via email and on our meeting on May 8th the need for timely approval of A-Forms, it would appear that OBM is pursuing a pattern of practice to delay the approval of A-Forms with the functional result of not paying employees on time and delaying compliance with the Consent Decree, Fitzsimons wrote. What is OBMs plan to systemically approve or deny A-forms? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unusually contentious email noted, CPD is committed to paying our employees on time. It is one of our most basic requirements as an employer and is also required by law. OBMs delay to sign A-Forms is exposing the City to increased legal risk along with diminished morale and increased attrition of our recruits. A joint statement last week from the mayors office, the Office of Budget Management and Chicago police acknowledged that about 60 police academy recruits saw late paychecks, along with six Chicago Fire Department employees. The response cast the snafu as an administrative error that has since been rectified. We acknowledge that administrative delays affected recently hired and promoted employees, and we have taken corrective steps to ensure the payments were made, the statement said. The City is continuing to evaluate ways to improve internal systems such as A-form processing and hiring workflows with a goal of reducing administrative delays and supporting public safety staffing needs. While the city said the lag was less than a week, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 President John Catanzara noted the 54 recruits who started in May only got their first paycheck last month after he spoke with WMAQ-Ch. 5 to sound the alarm. And former city Inspector General Joe Ferguson, who has authored reports on the citys complicated hiring process, argued you shouldnt have that situation at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It appears to be just another manifestation of the general practice in which OBM is actually closely holding their hand on the checker in order to find nickels, dimes, dollars for costs, Ferguson, now president of the Civic Federation, said. Its beyond my imagination to even come up with something (that) looks like from the perspective of liability and responsibility, a practice that takes this budgetary control mentality to a new extreme. Johnson is not the first mayor accused of employing budgetary tricks with A-forms in times of austerity. The budget office has traditionally leaned on slow-walking filling vacancies as one of its few tools to free up money, and the city ended 2024 with a $161 million deficit and expects a more than $1 billion gap next year. But delaying A-forms for entire academy classes or police supervisors who have already begun their new roles is an atypical move, Catanzara said. We are talking about a guy who bragged about being on payment plans with utilities and not paying his own water bill for years, so I guess it shouldnt be anything new, Catanzara said, a reference to Johnson paying off thousands in outstanding water and sewer bills during his 2023 campaign. There was always some little one-offs here and there, but they were literally one person had an issue, and it was dealt with. This is mass incompetence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fitzsimons email exchange also revealed that the Police Department is now under a hiring freeze until September to assist OBM in managing expenses, which Catanzara said was also the unions understanding. The city and Police Department did not address questions about the pause in new recruits. The Police Department has historically exceeded its annual spending plan thanks to runaway overtime and misconduct settlement costs. No, its not acceptable, the mayor told reporters when asked about public safety expenditures blowing past budgeted costs by $207 million last year. He blamed police overtime spending on large events and said some innovative element has to happen to drive those numbers down. In his June 2 email, Fitzsimons also asked Johnson budget officials Jonathan Ernst and Joseph Sacks for the status of A-forms for three other groups: youth employment, civilian employees and promotions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear how Johnsons team responded. For the last category, which concerns officers being promoted to sergeants and lieutenants, Fitzsimons warned, These A-Forms are directly tied back to paragraphs 249 264. Promotions have already occurred and members have begun to grieve. The paragraphs he was referring to concern the federal consent decree that the Police Department has been under since 2019. The court order was meant to reform Chicago police after the murder of Laquan McDonald, but progress has lagged, including within the section on recruitment and promotions cited by Fitzsimons. Improving the supervisor-to-officer ratio has been a goal of Johnsons and is part of ensuring compliance with the consent decree. Fitzsimons reminded Johnsons budget officials in his email that the department had to brief the judge overseeing the mandate that month on A-form approvals. The city and CPD joint response did not answer questions on how many police supervisors saw their raises lag as a result of problems with the A-forms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The youth employment A-forms were needed to fill two Police Department jobs, while the civilian A-forms focused on staff that would help implement the consent decree, per Fitzsimons email. He said Johnsons 2024 budget, which civilianized about 400 sworn positions, netted $8 million in savings and the department wants to hire more consent decree staff as a result. During the past budget cycle, Johnson landed in hot water with police reform advocates and the Illinois attorney general for proposing a spending plan that nixed 162 consent decree vacancies. He later restored them. Figures provided by the budget office show that of the total 439 Police Department positions tied to the consent decree, 222 remain vacant. Some of the largest gaps are in the training officer and victim specialist roles, which are 57% and 50% vacant, respectively. CPD remains focused on filling both sworn and non-sworn vacancies while maintaining compliance with the consent decree, the joint city-Police Department statement said. We are continuing to assess resource allocations and hiring procedures across departments to ensure operational continuity and to address the evolving demands of public safety and reform implementation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2 President Pat Cleary said three ambulance commanders, 15 engineers, 44 lieutenants and 29 captains temporarily suffered incorrect paychecks too. The budget office confirmed six Fire Department employees were paid late but did not address whether supervisors did not receive updated paychecks after being promoted. Ferguson said the promise of Johnsons first budget, which was lauded by policing and fiscal experts for converting sworn positions to civilian ones to cut spending, fell flat because of bureaucratic snags such as this recent A-form problem. He doesnt blame the freshman mayor for inheriting a sluggish hiring process that often takes several months, but Johnsons budget office isnt doing itself any favors, he said. Theres this game going on in which OBM is managing (A-forms) purely for purposes of other budgetary needs that are not known to anybody, and for which there is no transparency, Ferguson said. One hand is holding back the other hand in what is an octopus-like structure, and this does not serve any of us well. ____ SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) San Diego Police are investigating a possible hate crime after a rainbow-painted fence at a Scripps Ranch home was vandalized with a homophobic slur early Sunday morning. Surveillance footage shows a suspect spray-painting over a security camera at Brittany Fullers home off Scripps Trail around 3 a.m. Fuller said three vandals were involved, targeting her backyard fence, which is painted in rainbow colors and decorated with LGBTQ pride flags. Human Trafficking Task Force helps combat crime at Comic-Con Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im pansexual and I came out at 30, Fuller said. My moms a really big advocate for the LGBTQ community. My mom has always been vocal about loving everyone and inclusivity, and thats kind of how I became who I am today. Fuller said her home has been vandalized more than two dozen times since June 2022, when her family began flying several flags, including a transgender flag, a U.S. Constitution flag reading We the People Means Everyone, and a Thank You for Your Service flag, in addition to painting their fence. Past incidents have included flags being torn down and slurs spray-painted on the fence. Fuller believes the vandals in the latest incident may be the same individuals captured in surveillance video in February, when a suspect was seen climbing the fence and ripping down a camera. This is a military home, said Fullers fiance, Stephen Gunter. Brittanys father is a retired Navy SEAL. Brittany is the only civilian hand-selected by Mayor Todd Gloria for caregiver and veterans family advocacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump threatens to hold up stadium deal if Washington Commanders dont switch back to Redskins Neighbors have voiced support for Fullers family as police continue to collect evidence to identify the suspects. As a community member, this is a loving place to be, and we have no tolerance for this, said neighbor Meredith Keene. We are working with the police so they can get the folks that do this. Despite repeated attacks, Fuller said she will not take down the fence. Some people say its loud. But when youre faced with so much hate, you have to be loud and were being loud with love, Fuller said. I dont see the problem with that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are asking anyone with information about the vandalism to contact the San Diego 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Law enforcement swarms Mass. State House, Boston Common amid vandalism investigation A massive investigation is underway after the Massachusetts State House in Boston was vandalized with paint early Wednesday morning, authorities said. Troopers responding to a report of vandalism on Beacon Street around 3:30 a.m. found white paint that had been poured and sprayed all over the front gate area of the State House at the Bulfinch entrance, according to Massachusetts State Police. A photo first shared by the State House News Service showed white paint dumped on the steps, and splattered on the black gate and grey concrete pillars. Words were also spray-painted in black on the pillars. Credit: State House News Service State police said troopers were later called to Boston Common for a report of a suspicious package that the vandal might have left behind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state police bomb squad was then deployed out of an abundance of caution, but nothing was deemed suspicious. A Boston 25 News photographer later captured video that showed part of the State House and Boston Common roped off with yellow crime scene tape. Dozens of FBI agents and police officers could be seen scouring the area for evidence. >>> See photos in the gallery below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>> Gov. Maura Healey, Speaker of the House Ron Mariano, and Senate President Karen Spilka said they were deeply disturbed by the incident. We are deeply disturbed to learn about vandalism at the State House overnight. The State House is a revered building steeped in history, and staff works hard to keep it in pristine condition for employees and visitors alike, Healey, Mariano, and Spilka said in a joint statement. There is absolutely no excuse for vandalism, at the State House or anywhere. We are grateful to the Massachusetts State Police and their local, state, and federal partners for their quick response and efforts to identify those responsible. Detectives are continuing to investigate the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is urged to contact the Massachusetts State Police Boston Barracks at 617-727-6780. 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 Boston Police are investigating a string of late night robberies near Faneuil Hall. Law enforcement and City Hall sources told Boston 25 News there have been at least a dozen robberies there in less than three months. According to sources, the victims are mostly men who are leaving bars by themselves around closing time. Some of the reported attacks involve victims getting punched before being robbed of their wallets, cell phones and a house key in one case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another common trend in the crimes is that victims are being ambushed while waiting for an Uber or Lyft. These bars are very well frequented by college students. If were thinking about easy targets, theyre looking for these younger kids who are leaving the bar at the end of the night absolutely obliterated, said one local bar regular. You shouldnt be outside waiting by yourself when the bars are closing. Once you close it down and youre outside, theres all sorts of characters, they said. Some of the robberies reportedly involved as many as three or four suspects. Investigators have not determined if the cases are definitively linked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are advising bar-goers to not leave alone at night and to be mindful of their surroundings. 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 65-year-old Goshen man was arrested and jailed by Goshen police at 1:47 p.m. Sunday on charges of criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon, resisting law enforcement-vehicle and operating while intoxicated endangerment. According to Goshen police, officers were conducting traffic near Pike Street and Indiana Avenue with their emergency lights on. a Blue Ford F150 traveled around the barricade and nearly struck the officers and their patrol vehicles. Officers attempted to stop the truck, but it took more than 1000 feet for the vehicle to stop, officers reported. The Goshen man was reportedly intoxicated and was taken to the Elkhart County Jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ARRESTS A 62-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 6:50 p.m. on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangerment with priors and reckless driving with excessive speeds after police stopped him going 83 mph in a 55 mph zone at U.S. 6 and C.R. 35. A 55-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 10:44 p.m. Thursday on charges of possession of cocaine, paraphernalia and an unrelated Elkhart County warrant after a traffic stop near C.R. 9 and C.R. 6 in Elkhart. A 48-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 5:17 a.m. Friday on charges of invasion of privacy, possession of meth, burglary with a deadly weapon, intimidation and battery with a deadly weapon after he allegedly broke into a home in the 16000 block of Sunflower Avenue and assaulted someone there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 33-year-old woman was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 5:38 p.m. Friday on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated after she was stopped by police for a traffic violation near C.R. 40 and C.R. 13. A 46-year-old woman was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 7:34 p.m. Friday on charges of possession of a controlled substance and operating a vehicle while intoxicated after being stopped for a traffic infraction at in front of 17746 C.R. 34, Goshen. A 22-year-old passenger was also allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana and suspected psilocybin mushrooms and was also incarcerated. A 38-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 11:17 a.m. Friday on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated with priors following a single-vehicle crash on C.R. 7 north of Stratford Drive. A 20-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Elkhart County deputies at 9:29 p.m. Saturday on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, without a drivers license and illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 53-year-old man was arrested and jailed by Goshen police at 7:45 a.m. Monday on a charge of possession of a controlled substance after police were called to Fidler Pond, 1424 Lincolnway East, for a man sleeping on a park bench. HIT-AND-RUN A 38-year-old man reported to Goshen police at 7:33 a.m. Sunday that someone hit his parked vehicle overnight and left without reporting it. BURGLARY Elkhart County deputies at 9:20 a.m. Thursday responded to a report of a burglary in the 23000 block of U.S. 33 in Elkhart, where three storage units were forcibly entered into. A 25-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies that between 5 p.m. July 16 and 2:45 p.m. Thursday someone broke into a storage unit in the 52000 block of C.R. 9 and stole an Xbox and several phone accessories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 48-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies that between 8:20 a.m. Friday and 1:30 p.m. Saturday someone broke into her storage unit in the 52000 block of C.R. 9 in Elkhart, stealing jewelry, alcohol, clothes and luggage. An 86-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 8:03 a.m. Monday that her home had been burglarized while she was away in the 1500 block of Sycamore Court. FOUND GUN Goshen police were called to Wings Etc., 2815 Gateway Drive, Goshen, at 10:29 p.m. Monday for a found handgun. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF A 42-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 3:24 p.m. Thursday someone she knew kicked and damaged the passenger door of her vehicle in the 21000 block of Ind. 120 in Elkhart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elkhart County deputies at 9:23 p.m. Friday learned of someone damaging property in the 25000 block of Baker Street in Elkhart. THEFT A 66-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 3:35 a.m. July 15 someone stole multiple items from the 56000 block of Raider Drive in Elkhart. A 55-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 1:08 p.m. Friday someone stole a trailer in the 52000 block of C.R. 131 in Bristol. A 40-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies that between 5 p.m. Friday and 10:04 p.m. Saturday someone cut a fence in the 25000 block of C.R. 26 and stole a generator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 32-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies at 11:10 p.m. Saturday someone stole a vehicle from the 17000 block of C.R. 34 in Goshen. A 37-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 7:50 p.m. Monday the theft of money at Burger King, 4014 Elkhart Road. FRAUD A 26-year-old man reported to Elkhart County deputies that between June 29 and July 16 someone committed fraud A 79-year-old woman reported to Elkhart County deputies at 2:43 p.m. July 15 that she was defrauded out of $20,000 in an online scam. A 40-year-old woman reported to Goshen police at 4:20 p.m. Monday that someone used her identifying information to open several bank accounts. A 19-year-old man reported to Goshen police at 8:41 p.m. Monday a fraud had occurred. As longtime Reason readers are aware, police officers often don't like to be filmed by the public. Recently, an officer in Pennsylvania got so fed up with being recorded that he drove his car on the sidewalk and threatened to run over a civilian, for the offense of filming on public property. Courts have broadly held that civilians may legally record the police, so long as they don't physically interfere with officers doing their job. Even so, some officers chafe at the extra scrutiny: In recent years, officers have played copyrighted music in an attempt to keep the videos from being shared online. While underhanded, this is at least a relative improvement over the alternative, when officers would simply grab the phones from people's hands and arrest or pepper-spray them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 2015 and 2021, the city of Allentown, Pennsylvania, paid out more than $2 million to settle 14 cases of excessive force by the police. Some of those cases involved police hostility to civilians doing nothing more than filming. In October 2014, Allentown police arrested a college student, punching and tasing him in the process, for not providing his name even after they had taken his ID; they then arrested Eli Heckman, who was recording the arrest nearby, and smashed his phone. The city later settled with each of them, paying the student $95,000 and paying Heckman $45,000. Unfortunately, it seems Allentown's police haven't learned their lesson. Phil Rishel started recording Allentown officers with his cell phone as a form of protest in 2023, often while standing on the sidewalk outside the precinct. Things came to a head one day in March 2024, as Rishel filmed near the parking garage. In a video Rishel shot that day, an officerlater identified as Dean Flytecan be seen walking out to the sidewalk and, without speaking, ostentatiously orienting himself toward a posted sign that reads, "Private Property, No Trespassing," before going back into the parking garage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's a nice sign," Rishel snarks. "Too bad it doesn't apply to the public sidewalk." This apparently did not sit well: Minutes later, Flyte gets into his police cruiser and leaves the parking garage near where Rishel is filmingeven cutting a turn too sharply and sideswiping the building in the process. In the video, Rishel howls with laughter, but Flyte then drives onto the sidewalk, bearing down on Rishel while blaring his siren. Rishel backs up but keeps filming; even when Flyte reaches a pole and can't keep going, he goes to the trouble of backing up and driving around the obstruction and back onto the sidewalk so he can continue his pursuit. Flyte later exited the vehicle and went inside the precinct, returning with a supervisor, Sergeant Christopher Stephenson. Flyte threatened to arrest Rishel for loitering if he kept recording, and Stephenson agreed, saying Rishel's "antics are well known." When Rishel returned the following day, Stephenson confronted him again. "I warned you yesterday not to come back and do this shit," he says on video. Rishel says he's protesting on a public sidewalk, to which Stephenson replies, "You're not protesting, you're being a nuisance.One person isn't a protest." He later adds, "You're not saying anything, you're not doing anything; filming is not a First Amendment right" and "is not observed by Pennsylvania law" as a protected form of speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is nonsense: In 2017, the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals held in Fields v. City of Philadelphia that "under the First Amendment's right of access to information the public has the commensurate right to recordphotograph, film, or audio recordpolice officers conducting official police activity in public areas." That case involved the Philadelphia Police Department, whose "official policies," the court noted, "recognized that '[p]rivate individuals have a First Amendment right to observe and record police officers engaged in the public discharge of their duties.'" Besides, no police officer has the authority to decide what does and does not constitute a protestif he did, it would render the First Amendment meaningless, as any officer could just say a protest didn't count. Still, Stephenson cited Rishel for disorderly conduct and loiteringthough it's hard to imagine anything more disorderly than driving onto a sidewalk and blaring a siren while threatening to run somebody down in your car. This week, Rishel filed a lawsuit against the city of Allentown, as well as Flyte and Stephenson in their individual capacities. (Flyte retired from the department in December 2024.) Rishel seeks declarative injunctions stating that civilians may record police from public property without harassment, as well as damages against all three defendants. He is being represented by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). "Citizens trying to hold police officers accountable should not be punished," FIRE attorney Zach Silver said in a statement. "Public officials, including police officers, must uphold the law and respect citizens' right to record police and to use harsh language, not bully them into silence." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sadly, it seems the Allentown Police Department is sorely in need of reform. Earlier this year, a local TV station reported on allegations of corruption within the department, including theft by vice officers. The post Police Officer Threatens To Run Over Protester for Filming on the Sidewalk appeared first on Reason.com. Police have released security camera footage of a hit-and-run collision that killed a bicyclist Monday night in North Hollywood. The Los Angeles Police Departments Valley Traffic Division released video of the incident, which occurred around 10:50 p.m. July 21 on Lankershim Boulevard just south of Arminta Street. The footage, available here, shows the moments before a white pickup truck struck a bicyclist who was crossing outside a crosswalk. The driver did not stop and continued southbound on Lankershim. The victim, described as a 52-year-old white male, was transported by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiners Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities are hoping the video will generate leads. A city reward of up to $50,000 is available for information that leads to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Detectives Otrosina at 818-644-8036 or Martinez at 818-644-8033. Anonymous tips can be submitted through L.A. Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or 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. St. Paul police want the publics help finding a 14-year-old girl last seen leaving a hospital in St. Paul. Billie Jean Harrison left Childrens Minnesota on Smith Avenue near United Hospital on Saturday. She is about 5 feet 6 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a hooded sweatshirt, blue pants and no shoes, police said. Police ask anyone with information on Harrisons location to call the police department at 651-291-1111 or 911. Related Articles LA CROSSE, Wis. (WFRV) Police in Wisconsin are asking for help in finding a missing 22-year-old grad student who disappeared Sunday. According to police, Eliotte Heinz was last seen walking along Front Street South in La Crosse, Wisconsin, around 3:20 a.m. on July 20. Police, as well as her family and friends, have tried unsuccessfully to find her. 17-year-old girl becomes second suspect arrested in Pulaski Memorial Park shooting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heinz is a graduate student at Viterbo University, a private Catholic college in La Crosse, reported Nexstars NewsNation. Heinz is described as 5 feet, 4 inches tall, weighing 120 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and jean shorts. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 608-782-7575. No additional details were provided. 60-person bar fight in Wisconsin leads to multiple injuries If you have seen anything, even if its small, anything at all, please call La Crosse Police Department, Heinzs mother, Amber, told WISN. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis speaks at the Colorado Capitol on March 13, 2025. (Sara Wilson/Colorado Newsline) Colorado Gov. Jared Polis announced he would end plans to build a pedestrian walkway at the Colorado Capitol to celebrate the states 150th anniversary next year after Coloradans overwhelmingly rejected the idea in a survey his office distributed. Polis, a Democrat, said he would stop the pedestrian walkway proposal in its tracks after just under 94% of the Coloradans who filled out the survey said the walkway should not be built. Of the 87,686 people who took the survey, 82,313 opposed the walkway project. His office distributed a survey last week seeking public feedback on the walkway as the proposal continued to amass criticism, even from Polis allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX If needed, I will chain myself to the Capitol plaza to prevent it from being built and will personally intervene to ensure we listen to Coloradans feedback, Polis said in a statement. Coloradans have made our voices heard that the proposed pedestrian walkway is not how we want to celebrate our 150th anniversary. The walkway, which would have cost an estimated $29 million to build, was Polis proposal to celebrate Colorados 150th anniversary in 2026. The state committed to spend $8 million in taxpayer dollars to pay for the bridge even as the Colorado Legislature has implemented spending reductions given tight budget conditions in recent years. Polis said he would continue working with the 250/150 Commission, which the Colorado Legislature established to commemorate Colorados 150th anniversary as a state alongside the 250th anniversary of the United States, to determine a better statewide celebration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Survey results showed just over 48,000 people would prefer to see no anniversary project at all, while just over 33,000 said they would prefer several smaller-scale anniversary projects across the state. About 5,000 respondents said they would want to see a major anniversary project in Denver, the states capital city. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Nashvillians remember the sunny morning of Monday, March 27, 2023, because it felt like the darkest day in the city's history. A shooter armed with three firearms entered the Covenant School and killed Evelyn Dieckhaus, 9, William Kinney, 9, Hallie Scruggs, 9, Mike Hill, 61, Cynthia Peak, 61 and Katherine Koonce, 60. In the days that followed the shooting, there were funerals, citywide vigils and school walkout protests organized by students. National news reporters descended into Nashville, and people from all over the world learned about what happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the spotlight intensified and stayed pointed at the city for weeks longer, in part because of the lawmakers who became known as the "Tennessee Three." Protests demanding gun reform have become common occurrences in the wake of school shootings across the U.S., but following the Covenant School shooting, three Tennessee lawmakers took the protest inside the Capitol and onto the House floor. On March 30, just days after the school shooting, Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, and Rep. Justin Pearson, D-Memphis, walked up to the House podium without being called on and led chants in favor of gun reform, echoing the shouts of hundreds of protesters in the Capitol building and gathered outside its doors. Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, joined the pair by standing in solidarity during their demonstration, which included small signs made by constituents and a bullhorn. The demonstration was met with swift action from GOP lawmakers. House Speaker Cameron Sexton removed Jones and Johnson from their committee assignments (Pearson did not serve on any committees). Then, expulsion proceedings began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chaos that ensued thrust Tennessee's politics further onto the national stage. As part of the expulsion hearings, which took place on April 6, each of the three lawmakers got 20 minutes of uninterrupted time to speak at the podium in their own defense. Jones spoke first, wearing a white suit jacket and brown tie. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, speaks ahead of a vote to expel him from the House of Representatives at the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., on Thursday, April 6, 2023. House Speaker Cameron Sexton is seen behind him. After some cross examination, he was expelled by a vote of 72 to 25 (66 votes were needed). It was the first time any House member had been expelled for breaking the rules of decorum. Lawmakers next took up a resolution to expel Johnson, who brought two attorneys to represent her. But there was a wrinkle. The three expulsion resolutions shared the same language, accusing all three lawmakers of shouting and banging on the House podium. But Johnson's attorneys pointed out she did not do what the resolution claimed, as evidenced by a video shown minutes earlier. Tennessee State Rep. Justin Jones of Nashville speaks into a megaphone during a demonstration for gun reform on Thursday, March 30, 2023 in Nashville, Tenn. With him are Representatives Gloria Johnson and Justin Pearson. The trio became known as the "Tennessee Three." The argument was persuasive to multiple GOP lawmakers seven of whom broke with their party and voted not to expel Johnson. The resolution failed by one vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, Pearson had his turn to defend himself. He had only been in office 10 days, after being sworn in on the same day as the Covenant School shooting due to a special election. The resolution to expel him succeeded by a vote of 69 to 26. Both Jones and Pearson officially returned to office shortly thereafter, sent back first by their respective city councils, then by special elections in their districts. Jones was only out of office for a few days. And the trio received recognition from powerful Democratic leaders across the U.S., including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Political donations flooded the Tennessee Democratic party. But substantial Tennessee gun reform legislation has not followed in the wake of the shooting and subsequent protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tennessean is publishing a Notorious Nashville story for each year from 2000-2024. Catch up on the series here. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee Three had all eyes on Nashville in 2023 BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) Political operatives in Washington, D-C are gearing up for another battle royale over New Yorks 19th Congressional District seat next year. Last years race between Democrat Josh Riley and Republican Marc Molinaro was the most expensive in the country as outside interests flooded the airwaves with an onslaught of negative attack ads against both men. Riley narrowly beat the incumbent Molinaro in a rematch of another bruising battle 2 years prior. Now, the Congressional campaign committees for both parties are vowing to do whatever it takes to win the district that stretches from the Hudson Valley through Binghamton and to Ithaca. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Republican Congressional Committee has included the race in its top 26 Democratically-controlled seats in the House of Representatives that it hopes to flip next year. Eastern Regional Press Secretary Maureen OToole is visiting the region this week to do research and meet with local stakeholders. OToole says Riley has not kept his promises to fight for working families and that the district is ripe to be picked. NRCC Spokeswoman Maureen OToole says, Josh Riley eked out the win last cycle by just 8,000 votes, a really small margin. But at the same time, Republicans actually made great gains here. President Trump had his best performance ever here last Fall. And the district actually moved toward Republicans by nearly 3 points. OToole says Republicans plan to attack Riley for voting to raise taxes, voting against additional border security and for allowing men to play womens sports. Her counterpart at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Riya Vashi, says Republicans are lying about Rileys record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vashi says Riley has passed bills to expand health care access for veterans, to stop the deadly flow of fentanyl into the country and to lower prescription drug costs. She says whomever runs on the G-O-P ticket will be attacked over Republican moves to slash healthcare for millions, raise prices and cut funding to rural hospitals. Vashi says Democrats are ready for the fight. DCCC Northeast Press Secretary Riya Vashi says, Josh Riley was part of the Red to Blue program last year. His seat was one of the most competitive in the cycle. We already know that far-right extremists who dont understand this district are going to rely on lies and desperate spin tactics to make up for the fact that they failed to beat Josh Riley last cycle. While Binghamton is the primary media market for the 19th, the edges of the district reach into Syracuse, Utica, Albany and New York Citys markets. Republicans have yet to settle on a candidate at a time when challengers for other seats are being announced across the country. Advertisement 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. Axel Springer, the German parent company of Politico and the largest publisher in Europe, is trying to force some horrendous AI slop onto the political news publication. And its writers aren't happy. This month, a union representing journalists at Politico and its sister site E&E News, the PEN Guild, took the site's leadership to arbitration, arguing that it had violated the terms of its contract by deploying dodgy AI technology. The saga kicked off last year during the Democratic National Convention a key political event that could determine the outcome of a presidential election. With barely any warning, Politico's homepage started displaying an AI "live summary" that rounded up some of the latest news coming out of the convention. The editorial staff was reportedly only given a single hour's heads-up of this massive change to the website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We were all surprised and confused," Ariel Wittenberg, chair of the PEN Guild and a health reporter at E&E News, told tech journalist Brian Merchant, as quoted in his newsletter, Blood in the Machine. In a predictable turn of events, the AI tool was caught inventing quotes, misspelling names, and using language that violated Politico's editorial standards, including the terms "illegal immigrant" and "criminal migrants," Wired reported in May. These errors were taken down without a written correction from an editor, which also violated Politico's editorial standards, per Blood. More consequentially to Politico leadership, the AI's implementation flagrantly violated several of the terms of the union contract: as Merchant notes, the contract stipulates that Politico management must give its journalists 60 days' notice if it plans to roll out AI products that "materially and substantively" impact their job duties. "To have AI generation on the front page on the biggest political events, not just of the year, but of the last four years, to choose that as the moment that you're going to cede our space and our expertise to AI, and to have the AI not even follow our standards?" Wittenberg told Merchant. "It adds insult to injury." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wounds were reopened in March when Politico leadership released an AI-powered service called "Policy Intelligence Assistance," which generates custom reports using the publication's articles, producing some "pretty glaring errors," Wittenberg told Blood. "I asked it about 'The Impact of President Biden's Oil Policies,' and it wrote me a whole page-and-a half thing, and every single policy it mentioned was a policy of Trump's," she said. Incidentally, days after the PEN Guild took Politico management to arbitration, Axel Springer CEO Mathias Dopfner issued a decree mandating that all of its employees must use AI (which is somehow not the most shocking demand it asks of its rank and file). In a monument to tone-deafness, the remarks were made after Axel Springer announced that it would fire over 20 percent of the staff at its publication Business Insider, as it goes "all-in" on AI. "Nobody in the company has to explain in the company why she or he is using AI to do something whether to prepare a presentation or analyze a document," Dopfner said in a speech, as quoted by Status. "You only have to explain if you didn't use AI." To Axel, the PEN Guild says, "not without our say-so," reminding the German publisher that the writers have a big, fat union contract in their corner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Workers deserve to have a say on anything that can impact their livelihood or working conditions," Wittenberg told Merchant. "It's disappointing that management has violated this agreement," she added, "but having a contract allows us to stick up for our members, our standards and our readers." More on AI: The Washington Post Is Secretly Planning to Start Publishing Articles Created Using AI Activists demonstrate in a Florida state House office in Miami, in support of expansion of health care coverage. Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images The organization working to get a constitutional amendment on expanding Medicaid on the statewide ballot in 2026 released a public-opinion survey on Wednesday showing strong support for the proposal. The survey of 800 likely Florida voters conducted by Global Strategy Group last month for Florida Decides Healthcare (FDH) shows that 67% support the proposal, and 25% oppose it. Constitutional amendments in the Sunshine State must receive 60% support to become law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida is one of only 10 states that has not expanded Medicaid the safety net program for the poor, elderly, and disabled to childless, low-income, adults as allowed under the federal Affordable Care Act, often referred to as Obamacare. Floridians are ready for change. This polling confirms what weve known all along voters want Medicaid expansion. Florida is at a breaking point. Without Medicaid expansion, we are heading straight into a healthcare catastrophe, Mitch Emerson, executive director at Florida Decides Healthcare, said in a statement. These arent just numbers. These are parents working two jobs who still cant afford to see a doctor. These are veterans who served our country. These are seniors on the edge and caregivers holding their families together. We pay for Medicaid through our federal taxes, yet were the ones left behind. Medicaid expansion is the only path forward. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Florida Decides Healthcare Executive Director Mitch Emerson talks to reporters in Tallahassee outside the federal courthouse May 22, 2025. (Photo by Christine Sexton/Florida Phoenix) The polling comes just weeks after the one big beautiful bill President Donald Trumps priority spending and tax legislation became law. That measure cuts over a 10- year period upward of $1 trillion from Medicaid to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. Congress still hasnt extended the enhanced premium tax credits to help pay the costs of so-called Obamacare plans sold on the federal exchange. Those enhanced premiums are set to expire at the end of the year. Florida leads the nation in Obamacare enrollment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Florida Policy Institute estimates that the Medicaid cuts and the elimination of the enhanced premium tax credits for Obamacare policies will cause Floridas uninsured rates to double to more than 19%. While the proposed constitutional amendment has significant support, theres no guarantee that it will appear on the 2026 statewide ballot. FDH must get 881,000 signatures from across the state by next February to qualify for the 2026 ballot. FDH claims to have collected more than 150,000 signature petitions. The Florida Division of Elections, shows that 62,650 petitions have officially been received. FDH and other groups have gone to federal court to try to block a new election law signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis that imposes significant restrictions on citizen-led constitutional amendments. Earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Mark Walker stopped the state from enforcing the laws ban against non-Florida residents and non-U.S. citizens from collecting petitions. However, he declined a request by FDH to block a 90-day moratorium on the verification of signatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the second ruling Walker issued in the challenge. In a June ruling, Walker refused to block most of the new requirements in the new law. The proposed amendment would expand Medicaid expansion eligibility to adults aged 18 to 64 whose incomes fall at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities says that there are 315,000 Floridians who earn too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but too low to qualify for the tax credits that help lower the costs of the insurance policies on the exchange. The survey of 800 Floridians was conducted by the Global Strategy Group between June 11-17, prior to the passage of Trumps signature legislation. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.5%. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A porn star accused of dismembering a couple before stuffing some of their remains in suitcases has been found guilty of double murder. Yostin Andres Mosquera, 35, was convicted on two counts of murder at Woolwich Crown Court in London, U.K., on Monday, July 21, according to a statement from the Crown Prosecution Service. Prosecutors said Mosquera a "pornographic performer" and native of Colombia was motivated by finances when he brutally killed Paul Longworth, 71, and Albert Alfonso, 62, at the couples home in the Shepherds Bush neighborhood of London on July 8, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the trial, Mosquera claimed that Alfonso murdered Longworth, and that he then killed Alfonso out of fear for his life, per the statement. But prosecutors said Mosquera murdered both victims in a "planned and premeditated attack." According to a statement from the Metropolitan Police Service, Mosquera had got to know both men, who were in a civil partnership, over a number of years, and had been staying with them at their apartment for the month prior to their murders. "Mosquera was involved in a consensual sexual relationship with Albert, one which Paul was aware of and lovingly accepted," police said. "The court heard Albert simply had no reason to kill his partner, Paul, despite Mosqueras defense that the two of them were in a controlling and coercive relationship." Authorities said Mosquera attacked Longworth first with a hammer to the back of the head in the afternoon while Alfonso was at work. He then hid the body in a storage space under the bed in Longworth's bedroom and waited for Alfonso to come home, per the police statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that evening, video footage from Alfonsos bedroom showed Mosquera performing sex acts on Alfonso in his bedroom, before repeatedly stabbing him and cutting his throat, police said. According to The Guardian, prosecutors said Mosquera recorded a clip of himself singing and dancing after killing Alfonso. On the day of the killings, investigators said Mosquera searched online for how long it would take for a corpse to start decomposing and where on the head would be a fatal blow, per the police statement. Data also showed he accessed a boarding pass for a return flight to his native Colombia. On July 10, 2024, Mosquera was seen on the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol "acting strangely" with two large suitcases, prosecutors said. "It became obvious that one of the suitcases was leaking blood, and when challenged by a member of the public, he ran away," the CPS statement reads. "Police were called and made the gruesome discovery of body parts contained within the cases," prosecutors said. "A luggage label led them to Mr. Longworth and Mr. Alfonsos flat in Shepherds Bush, London, where police also found their decapitated heads and remaining body parts stored in a chest freezer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mosquera was arrested on July 13, 2024, outside a transit station, authorities said. Investigators then learned that Mosquera researched a freezer online on several occasions, including the one that he later ordered to be delivered to the address, per the police statement. 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. Also, examinations of Mosquera's laptop revealed that in the weeks leading up to the murders, he searched online to find the value of the Shepherd's Bush property and accessed personal information about the couple's finances, police said. The Crown Protection Service said Mosquera unsuccessfully sent himself money from Alfonso's bank account after the murders and then withdrew money from the account at ATMs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These crimes were truly horrific and our thoughts are with the families and friends of Albert and Paul," said Detective Inspector Neil Meade, of Avon and Somerset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team, per the police statement. "I know how concerning this incident was - and still is - for our LGBT communities," Meade added. "We remain in close contact with community leaders and our partners and are ready to provide any support we can." Mosquera is expected to be sentenced in October, prosecutors said. Read the original article on People PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) People living in downtown Portland like Sandeep Divekar said affordability is a problem, but not the focus. He and other residents told the City Council on Tuesday they are most concerned with feeling unsafe as a result of rampant drug use and homeless crime. The governments first responsibility is the safety and security of their citizens, Divekar told KOIN 6 News. That is the reason why we have government and why we had, you know, people that ruled our governments. They are missing the point here. Unless you make people feel safe, the rest of it really doesnt matter, does it? Downtown Portland resident Sandeep Divekar, July 22, 2025 (KOIN) Divekar said he urged city leaders to focus on a complete solution that also takes into account cleanliness, public safety and treatment for mental health and addiction. But he is concerned the message is not fully getting across. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kotek calls for special legislative session amid ODOT layoffs, transportation crisis We want to see some commitment from our local governments, the county and the city saying, OK, we acknowledge this problem. Heres how were going to deal with all of it, he said. Its not, you cant just deal with it just by giving somebody a bed or this or that. Its got to be a complete solution. The Portland City Council Homelessness and Housing Committee took time in Tuesdays meeting to fine tune the language in their Objective for Unified Housing Strategy, points like building housing and preventing displacement. City Councilor Candace Avalos said fixing housing affordability will have positive effects on other problems plaguing residents. Portland City Councilor Candace Avalos, July 22, 2025 (KOIN) Every Portlander is more safe when every Portlander is stable and has a safe place to live, she said. So these things, they coincide. And I think if we can tackle helping people who need support on the streets, that will automatically help our streets feel more welcome to everybody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city is now just over four months away from Mayor Keith Wilsons self-imposed deadline to end unsheltered homelessness. Divekar said that is a solution, but it is not the solution. Theyve got to reckon with what happens during the daytime when people come out of the shelter, they have drugs, they have guns, there are weapons, he said. What happens then to the residents of that neighborhood? Where is the concern for the residents of the neighborhood that the shelters are in? The Homelessness and Housing Committees next meeting is in August where councilors are planning to hear from Wilson on his shelter plan progress. Advertisement 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. Former Mossad official Rami Igra warned that the Gaza war is damaging Israel's global reputation and called for an immediate end to the conflict, emphasizing the need for a long-term solution. Former Mossad official Rami Igra warned that the ongoing images emerging from Gaza will harm Israels reputation for generations and called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza on Wednesday on the 103FM program with Anat Davidov and Odi Segal. During the interview, he also discussed ongoing negotiations to reach a deal with Hamas. Igra, the former head of the Hostages and Missing Persons Division in the Mossad, said, From the outset, Hamas has had one primary goal, which is the end of the warnot a ceasefire, but the complete end of the war. As long as this goal hasnt been reached, Hamas will not agree to anything and will continue fighting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This presents a rather unusual situation. On one hand, Israel is discussing a ceasefire or a pause in the fighting to facilitate the release of the hostages, while on the other hand, Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu repeatedly declares that he will return to fighting immediately after this pause." "Clearly, no one will accept this, which means that if a ceasefire occurs, Hamas will likely secure concrete guarantees from the Americans to halt the fighting, Igra explained, pointing to the main obstacle in the hostage release negotiations and Hamas's demands. I assume that if Hamas agrees to any deal, it will only be because they have American guarantees they believe in. We also need to look at the other side of Israel. As Israelis, we dont see the images coming out of Gaza. What has been happening there in recent months is the worst destruction of Israels values weve ever seen." Palestinians gather to receive food cooked by a charity kitchen, amid a hunger crisis, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, January 2, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled) "We saw this just yesterday with the events in Syros. To put this into context, let me bring up a tragic historical event: the St. Louis ship. The ship left Germany with hundreds of Jewish refugees who were not allowed to disembark anywhere. This comparison, while extreme, highlights the global sentiment. It illustrates that Israelis are increasingly unable to travel abroad, Igra remarked. 'We are being portrayed as child executioners' He continued, This erosion of values is not just for Israelis but also for Jews worldwide. The images coming out of Gaza have provided the world with a reason to hate Israelis and Jews. These images tell a story that we were not always warned aboutthat we are businessmen or thievesbut now, we are being portrayed as child executioners and oppressors of populations. Whether or not it is true, or how much of it is fabricated, this is the perception globally. We, too, will pay for Gaza. Our children will pay for it, our grandchildren will pay for it, and Netanyahu doesnt understand this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Igra then addressed Israels ability to destroy Hamas, stating, Its true that Hamas is a dangerous and ruthless organization, and we all want to see its destruction. Deep down, we want to eliminate every last Hamas terrorist. However, that is not feasible. The alternative facing us is either to agree to the end of the war and create, through negotiations with the Americans, the Emirates, and the Saudis, some kind of alternative in Gaza that will dismantle the ideology behind Hamas, or we continue this senseless war, which serves no real purpose. Furthermore, Igra pointed out that Israels political decision-makers still do not fully understand Hamass nature, as evidenced by their recent statements: There are people who still dont grasp what Hamas truly is, just as they didnt understand it on October 7. They ignore the fact that the majority of the Arab population in Judea and Samaria supports Hamas. Hamas is a religious ideology that cannot be dismantled by force. It must be dismantled through a long-term process, not merely by improving economic conditions, but by establishing an alternative government in Gaza." "There is no simple solution. You can kill the last Hamas fighter and continue fighting endlessly, but that would only add more casualties and further destabilize the region. And in the end, we would not be a state in the Commonwealth. We wouldnt know what kind of country we would be. Take a look at the operation, Gideons Chariotswhat did it bring Israel other than sorrow, terrible public relations, and countless casualties? It was a futile effort. In my opinion, if a deal is reached, it will be because Hamas believes the war is over and that the Americans have made promises to them," Igra concluded. Stay true to culture. This is the challenge set by a new international initiative which unites around 30 European musicians demanding the regulation of Artificial Intelligence and the protection of copyright. The campaign, entitled #StayTrueToTheAct, includes 17 Portuguese artists and seeks to sensitise European policymakers "to the urgency of ensuring that AI systems respect intellectual property rules". The movement is based on the creation and dissemination of video messages by musicians from all over Europe, who are calling on the European Commission to legislate to hold AI companies accountable for the way they use copyrighted material to train their models. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These artists argue that the "European Union must guarantee an ecosystem where technological innovation and the creative market can thrive in balance". Among the signatories of the movement are names such as Calema, Dino d'Santiago, Diogo Picarra and Pedro Abrunhosa, who filmed videos justifying the need to protect artists in the face of the unbridled development of this technology. "The creative act is perhaps the most human of acts. It is based on experience, touch, closeness, intuition, fear, all emotions, all feelings, but above all it is a salvation from the blackness, the hell that life often imposes," explains Pedro Abrunhosa. "A generative artificial intelligence is not allowed to vampirise these emotions and mimic, to parrot an amalgam of deep human feelings and make them its own, as if it created them itself. I do not authorise my music, my image, to be used to train the parrot of generative artificial intelligence and I therefore call on the European Commission to respect human dignity and culture and to enforce the artificial intelligence act, which has already been consensually approved," he explains in the published video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The movement is supported by artists from different European countries. Alejandro Sanz is one of the Spanish artists taking part in the campaign which is geared towards calls for transparency and consent. Artists fear weakening of European AI law In June 2024, the European Union adopted the world's first rules on artificial intelligence, which set out various transparency requirements for generative Artificial Intelligence, including the disclosure of the content used to train the respective models. However, they explain that the bloc is now working to put the law into practice, running the risk of "watering down the legislation by not holding AI companies accountable". Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The European artists' appeal is for the European Commission to stick to the law originally passed and defend their rights. The current campaign was launched by Ipfi - the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, with which the Portuguese copyright association Audiogest has joined. The movement is still open to all European artists who wish to join and thus give voice to this cause. The U.S. Postal Service on Wednesday marked its upcoming 250th anniversary with the release of new commemorative stamps, including an exclusive, modernized version of the nation's first 5-cent stamp featuring Benjamin Franklin, the first postmaster general. The event was held at the USPS headquarters in Washington and included an appearance by the 76th postmaster general. David Steiner, a former waste management company CEO and a former board member of the shipping giant FedEx, began in his new role last week. For the United States Postal Service, today is a milestone 250 years in the making, Steiner said in a statement. These stamps will serve as a window into our shared history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. mail service officially turns 250 years old Saturday. Established by the Second Continental Congress in 1775, the Postal Service was launched nearly a year before the colonies declared their break from British rule. It is seen by historians as crucial to the nation's independence and to keeping the young country unified. Franklin was chosen as the first postmaster general because he had previously served in the British postal service for North America, including as co-Postmaster General from 1757 until 1774. A book of 20 Franklin stamps is exclusively being sold with a commemorative 32-page booklet titled "Putting a Stamp on the American Experience." The new Forever stamp features a redesigned, modern interpretation of an 1875 reproduction of the original 5-cent stamp released in 1847. President George Washington was featured on the first 10-cent stamp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The USPS has also released a commemorative sheet of 20 interconnected stamps, dubbed 250 Years of Delivering, that portray a mail carrier making her rounds throughout a year. The stamps were illustrated by renowned cartoonist Chris Ware. Steiner has lauded the Postal Service for its history and recently voiced support for keeping the USPS as a self-financing, independent agency of the executive branch. Last week, in a video message to employees, Steiner said he opposed the idea of privatizing the Postal Service, contrasting with comments made by President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. I do not believe the Postal Service should be privatized or that it should become an appropriated part of the federal government, Steiner said. He said his goal as postmaster was to meet the agency's financial and service performance expectations under the current structure. President Donald Trump is angry. His team is exasperated. The Republican-controlled House is in near rebellion. Trump and his closest allies thought theyd spend the summer taking a well-earned victory lap, having coaxed Congress into passing the megabill, bullied foreign governments into a slew of new trade arrangements, convinced NATO allies to spend billions more on collective defense and pressed world leaders to bow to various other demands from Doha to The Hague. Instead, questions surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender, who was found dead in his jail cell by suicide nearly six years ago, are overshadowing almost everything else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement POTUS is clearly furious, said a person close to the White House, who, like others in this story, was granted anonymity to discuss the mood inside the West Wing. Its the first time Ive seen them sort of paralyzed. A senior White House official told POLITICO the president is frustrated with his staffs inability to tamp down conspiracy theories they once spread and by the wall of media coverage that started when Attorney General Pam Bondi released information from the Epstein case that was already in the public domain. He feels there are way bigger stories that deserve attention, the senior White House official said. After the Bondi release, voices on the MAGA right from Steve Bannon to Laura Loomer criticized the Trump administration for its handling of the controversy, warning it threatened to consume his presidency. Then last week The Wall Street Journal published a story alleging Trump sent Epstein a lewd birthday message. The president has denied sending the letter and filed a defamation suit against the paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The frustration stems, in part, from an understanding that this is a vulnerability, said a White House ally. Trump has famously had his finger on the pulse of the Republican base for more than a decade but has, for now, lost the ability to dominate the narrative. That threatens to undermine the momentum and sense of invincibility the GOP felt at the beginning of the month when they were getting ready to boast about a slew of new tax cuts and border funding as their opening pitch to voters ahead of the 2026 midterms. Many of these errors are unforced resulting from hyped up accusations from Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel which is fueling the indignation inside the White House. Theyre the ones that opened the can of worms on the Epstein conversation. No one made them do this, which makes it sting even worse, the ally said. Trump has tried to refocus the narrative, repeatedly touting the nations economic strength and accusing former President Barack Obama of treason. On Tuesday, Trump announced what he called the biggest deal ever made with Japan, the United States fifth-largest trading partner in 2024. Trump also announced deals with the Philippines and Indonesia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you're working 12 to 15 hours a day to solve real problems and you turn on the TV and see people talking about Jeffrey Epstein, thats frustrating. That's where the president's mindset is, the senior White House official said. Even as the president talks trade and treason, the Department of Justice is working to put Epstein inquiries to rest, petitioning for the release of grand jury files and potentially meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins co-conspirator who is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for child sex trafficking and other crimes. Trump on Tuesday claimed he didnt know what the Justice Department was doing. They would like to move on and talk about the things they think are Ws, said the White House ally. They are really annoyed that its an overshadowing news cycle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there are plenty from sections of Trumps basewhove long believed the government protects rich and powerful people who participate in heinous crimes like Epsteins sexual abuse underage girls to Democrats gleefully seizing on the saga who continue to devour the coverage. And thats putting Republican leaders on the Hill in a bind as they balance their loyalty to the president against their own fears of the base turning on them. House Republicans canceled several votes this week as leadership struggled to contain the ire from lawmakers demanding the Justice Department release files related to Epstein. The Rules Committee delayed meeting out of fear theyd be forced to vote on the Epstein files. House members are worried and its screwing up the schedule, said the person close to the White House. There have been points of significant pushback behind the scenes where the House has rolled over. But now the Rules Committee rebelled against the speaker over something POTUS finds embarrassing. Its a big ass deal. Youre looking at a straight congressional rebellion. "It is clear that everything you do is aimed at protecting the citizens of Israel, protecting the communities in the Gaza envelope, and protecting the entire country," Herzog said. President Isaac Herzog visited IDF soldiers inside Gaza for the first time on Wednesday. The president was accompanied by Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor, along with several additional commanders, briefed the president on the operational situation in the sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When I hear and see you firsthand, it is clear that everything you do is aimed at protecting the citizens of Israel, protecting the communities in the Gaza envelope, and protecting the entire country," Herzog told the reserve soldiers of Battalion 969. "You left work, family, and routine, and came without hesitation because you knew there is no substitute for your presence. It is also important for me to reflect on the enormous burden on the reservists. We must understand that at this moment, the people of Israel must be united, and never give up for a moment." The Post visited Battalion 969 in northern Gaza The Jerusalem Post visited Battalion 969, led by Lt.-Col. (res.) T, on Thursday. The Post was visiting a new secret IDF position in northern Gaza, built by the battalion and dubbed Israela, which is designed both to project power and serve as an additional forward defense line to prevent any potential invasion from getting anywhere near residential Israel. The position, along with two other nearby positions, gives a unique strategic high-ground view of Beit Hanun, Beit Lahiya, Jabalya, and Gaza City in the distance. U.S. President Donald Trump participates in a reception with Republican Members of Congress in the East Room at the White House in Washington, on July 22, 2025. Photo by Yuri Gripas/UPI In a post on the social media platform True Social, President Donald Trump promised Indiana $15.1 million to go toward disaster relief from storms that hit the state earlier this year. The federal money comes after Trump said he talked to Indiana Gov. Mike Braun. "I just finished speaking with the Governor Mike Braun, of the Great State of Indiana, which I won BIG in 2016, 2020, and 2024. We are approving $15.1 million dollars for severe flooding and tornadoes, which took place in the early Spring. I know the State, under the leadership of Braun, will make a rapid recovery!" The post said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also announced he granted funding to Michigan, Kentucky and West Virginia. Braun responded to the post on X, formerly Twitter, thanking the president for his leadership and approval of the critical funding. He said the money will enable Hoosier communities to recover and rebuild "stronger than ever." Indiana had a state of emergency in 18 counties last Spring Thank you President @realDonaldTrump for your leadership and approval of this critical funding! These funds will enable Hoosier communities to recover and rebuild stronger than ever. https://t.co/M0rfpBVwb3 Governor Mike Braun (@GovBraun) July 22, 2025 In April, Braun declared a state of emergency for 18 counties in the wake of storms that spawned tornadoes and heavy rain through the state and pushed rivers out of their banks. He had previously activated the Indiana National Guard to assist 41 counties with storm recovery. The order was for Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Dearborn, Delaware, Gibson, Hamilton, Harrison, Lake, Madison, Marshall, Martin, Owen, Perry, Posey, Spencer and Warrick counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Declaring a state of emergency allows the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to offer financial assistance under the State Disaster Relief Fund to help cover expenses caused by the storm damage. Braun later asked for federal assistance. At least two people died during the storms. 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, formerly Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: President Trump says Indiana will get $15.1M for disaster recovery "Knowing Elon the way I know him, I do think hes going to do everything to damage the president." So declared Elon Musk's former friend and business associate Philip Low, who has known the Tesla and SpaceX tycoon for 14 years, in a recent interview with Politico. Those remarks seemed to be borne out last week when Musk renewed his on-again, off-again feud with Donald Trump by attacking Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" and proposing to form a new political party which he now claims to be moving forward with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump responded in kind, suggesting he would "take a look" at revoking Musk's citizenship and that he "might have to put DOGE on Elon". As The Independent reported last month, there are a great many ways that Trump could try to hurt Musk, from targeting his companies with federal investigations to deportation or even criminal investigations. But Musk is not without cards to play. Through his vast wealth, his business empire, and his ability to martial a zealous online fanbase, he has plenty of ways to make life difficult for his erstwhile "buddy". So if the world's richest person really wants this fight, what punches could he throw? A money hose for Trumps opponents The first and most obvious weapon in Musk's arsenal is his vast wealth: an estimated $405 billion, according to Forbes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the 2024 election, Musk plowed $295 million into supporting Republican candidates, chiefly Trump himself. That's a huge amount in American politics, but it's chump change for today's mega-rich. For context, across the whole of 2023 and 2024, the total amount of money raised by all presidential candidates was only $2 billion, according to the Federal Election Commission. Congressional candidates raised $3.8 billion, while PACs raised a more respectable $15.7 billion. Matching those amounts wouldn't be trivial for Elon Musk, because like most of the world's richest people his wealth is tied up in stocks that can't easily be unloaded all at once. Still, based on Wednesday's share prices, he could pay for the entire 2024 election cycle by liquidating just one fifth of his reported $130 billion stake in Tesla. We have a sense already of how Musk might use this money. "Every member of Congress who campaigned on reducing government spending and then immediately voted for the biggest debt increase in history should hang their head in shame! And they will lose their primary next year if it is the last thing I do on this Earth," he said on Monday. Anyone who campaigned on the PROMISE of REDUCING SPENDING , but continues to vote on the BIGGEST DEBT ceiling increase in HISTORY will see their face on this poster in the primary next year pic.twitter.com/w13Qkm2e1A Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 1, 2025 He's suggested hed donate to Republican representative Thomas Massie, a persistent critic of Trump's. And there's still another $100 million Musk previously promised Trump that he could decide to withhold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He could even give money to Democrats, who will likely take it (although Trump has threatened serious consequences in that scenario). They are politicians, after all. Then theres Musks proposed new party, dubbed the America Party. When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste and graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy, he said on Saturday. Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom. In a follow-up tweet, he suggested the party would be a centrist entity aiming to slash government spending, cut regulations, stimulate technological progress, increase birth rates, and support free speech (though Musk himself has a troubled relationship with that last term). Yeah! Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 5, 2025 Musks proposed strategy is to laser-focus enormous effort on just a few Senate and House districts, in the hope of acting as a tiebreaker in tight votes between Republicans and Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In general, the USA's first-past-the-post electoral system means third parties find it almost impossible to get a seat in Congress. The America Party would need a sizeable grassroots contingent in order to get any campaigns off the ground. Meanwhile, Musk's notion that 80 percent of the USA agrees with his opinions seems disconnected from reality. The polling expert Nate Silver puts his net favorability rating at a weighted average of -18 percent, which is considerably worse than Trump himself. Nevertheless, his billions mean the new party wont want for resources. And even if third parties dont win, they can still leech votes from larger parties and force them to change their policies. Of course, money isn't everything as Musk himself found out when his attempt to sway the Wisconsin Supreme Court election in March and April crashed and burned. Luckily for him, its not his only asset. Is it time to create a new political party in America that actually represents the 80% in the middle? Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025 Musks cult of personality rivals Trumps own Musk's overall popularity may have dropped dramatically since the election. But his pull with Republican voters specifically was still very high as of early June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That's testament to his ability to build and maintain a fanatical fanbase. Like Trump, he has a knack for inspiring loyalty and whipping up his supporters against new targets, as well as a keen instinct for controversy. And also like Trump, he doesn't need to be popular with all Americans to cause trouble for his enemies. He only needs enough dedicated partisans on his side. Elon has wooed enough of Trumps supporters to be an actual threat politically, Musk's old friend Philip Low told Politico. "[Trump] doesnt realize the battle that he has on his hands." Musk's ownership of X, formerly Twitter, will help him there. Having already turned the social network into a hub of the MAGA media universe and reportedly tweaked its algorithms in favor of his own posts he now has enormous control over the conservative information stream. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given how many Americans now essentially live in a parallel media universe, maintained by fake news entrepreneurs and skewed social media algorithms, that gives him influence over what Trump's base even believes to be reality. Oh and some food for thought as they ponder this question: Trump has 3.5 years left as President, but I will be around for 40+ years Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025 Granted, Trump remains the unquestioned ruler of the GOP. And when polls pit Musk against Trump directly, Republican voters largely side with the king. Yet Musk's combination of financial and social capital makes him a powerful ally to anyone within the party hoping to chart their own course. From fiscal hawks opposed to Trump's spending spree to centrists with one eye on their purple state majority, there are plenty of people in Congress who won't always back Trump 100 percent. Musk can boost and sustain them, helping them resist the eye of Sauron effect that Trump has traditionally used to beat his coalition into line. Musks influence crosses countries and industries Other threats are more esoteric. NASA would be pretty stuck without SpaceX, which currently offers the only reliable way of ferrying astronauts to and from the International Space Station. Musk's satellite business Starlink is relied on by governments and militaries across the world, including some U.S. agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having helped kickstart China's world-leading electric vehicle industry, he also has a serious fanbase in China and good relationships with the Chinese Communist Party. "Brother Musk, youve got over a billion people on our side backing you," said one user on the Chinese social network Weibo on Wednesday. Most juicily of all, he has information. Musk spent months at the heart of the Trump administration, attending cabinet meetings and undertaking highly controversial projects. What might he have learned or witnessed during that time that could damage Trump politically? We got a taste of that when Musk accused Trump of being "in the Epstein files". That's nothing new: we've known since 2015 that Trump was in Jeffrey Epstein's address book (which is not evidence of wrongdoing), and his ties to the child-abusing financier are long documented. Yet as Trump knows all too well, in today's politics truth has only a passing relevance to how much chaos a lurid allegation can cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of these factors are a slam dunk for Musk. His born-again MAGA conversion has trashed his former reputation as an apolitical business genius, and toxified his image among Democratic voters. Getting more involved in politics would only prolong investors' disquiet about his ability to focus on running Tesla and SpaceX. Trying to dish dirt on Trump could also tempt revenge in kind, which could be dangerous given the sheer range of allegations about Musk's personal life. Most of all, to misquote a line from the early 19th century writer Hilaire Belloc that Musk seems to be fond of: whatever happens, Trump has got the nukes, and Musk does not. Then again, when has the near certainty of adverse consequences ever stopped Elon Musk? MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) The interim police chief is looking to reenergize the force as he addresses staffing issues in the Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD). Prince Georges County Executive Aisha Braveboy appointed George Nader to the position last month. Im so happy to work with the men and women on this organization who I think are just top-notch, Nader said. Prince Georges County PDs highest-ranking female officer retires after serving over 20 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nader is no stranger to PGPD. In his 32-year law enforcement career, he spent 20 years with the department before leaving in 2016 to serve as assistant chief for the Metro Transit Police Department. The relationships that we have in the community are phenomenal, Nader said. Its nice to see that they have continued on over the years. Nader said one of his main goals is to address staffing. We need to hire about 330 police officers, he said. Thats what were down, so thats not even accounting for officers that are going to leave or retire within the next year. He said recruitment continues to be a challenge and, in the months ahead, they will work to implement strategies to complement incentives already in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We should be hiring about 100 a year or more, Nader said. Right now, were hiring about 60, and then you always have to account for if you hire 60, that doesnt mean youre going to graduate 60. Nader said what hes looking forward to most is strengthening relationships with members of the community. We are your police department and we want you to be as much a part of our police department as you want to be. Were here for you. Were your agency in good times and bad times, he said. George Nichols has been named interim assistant chief of police for PGPD. He has decades of experience within the department. Advertisement 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Rural letter carrier Roger McDonald, left, catches up with Edgar Clemens in rural Gering, Neb., on May 9, 2025 McDonalds first day back on the route after three months of medical leave. McDonald said he loves the sense of community fostered by the Postal Service, which he fears would disappear if his route was curtailed by cutbacks or eliminated by privatization. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) SCOTTSBLUFF, Nebraska Rural letter carrier Roger McDonald missed driving his 150-mile route outside Scottsbluff in northwestern Nebraska earlier this year. He was injured in a serious car accident that kept him from mail delivery for three months. He had an appointment scheduled with the doctor who rebuilt his right hand on May 8, so he decided to do a dry run the day before in case he was cleared to return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the pavement turned to gravel on Crow Road, McDonald said long distances, low population density and poor infrastructure make rural delivery difficult and unprofitable. His point was soon proven. Among the routes first stops were two mailboxes separated by a dilapidated bridge over an irrigation canal. Before the bridge was closed, it was a 50-yard trip between them, McDonald said at the first mailbox. He then drove nearly three miles to reach the second. Under the universal service obligation, which mandates mail delivery to every address in the country, a rural letter carrier will drive more than 700 miles to serve those two households in a normal year. Its never going to make financial sense, said McDonald, 61, from the drivers seat of his preferred delivery vehicle, a Dodge Caravan. But thats a big reason why the universal pricing system was generated. Because we knew we had to service every Americans home, not just the Americans homes that provide us a profit. As a government agency providing a public service, the U.S. Postal Service is not required to make a profit. But it is not supposed to lose money, either, which it has done every year since 2007, according to its annual reports. The inefficiencies inherent to rural delivery are blamed for much of the lost revenue over the past two decades, which totals more than $100 billion, according to annual reports by the Postal Service. Rural letter carrier Roger McDonald prefers to drive a Dodge Caravan on his rural route, located in Scotts Bluff County, Neb. The area is known for its beautiful rugged bluffs and some native prairie grasses. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) The same reports say mail volume has also nearly halved in that time. Cutting services to rural communities as a means of pulling the Postal Service out of the red has already started. The issue of privatization has also been resurrected by the current administration and regarded by business interests who see converting all or parts of the agency to a for-profit model as an investment opportunity but not without pushback from postal workers and unions concerned with further service cuts and layoffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before returning to his native Scottsbluff and joining the Postal Service 12 years ago to slow down, McDonald owned and operated businesses throughout the western U.S. for nearly 30 years. He said he understands the calculus of those who want to make drastic changes to the Postal Service. Cost-benefit analysis is going to tell them that rural delivery service is too expensive, McDonald said. Their loss mitigation efforts are going to tell them that this part of the service needs to be cut away. Trying to destroy everything In December 2024, President Donald Trump reiterated his first-term ambition to privatize the Postal Service. Trump then said he was instead thinking about moving the agency to the Department of Commerce by executive order in February 2025 which some say is a stepping stone to privatization while billionaire technologist Elon Musk stuck to direct privatization as the preferred solution in March. Shortly after Postmaster General Louis DeJoy agreed to let the Department of Government Efficiency find ways to stop the budget bleed, he resigned. Musk left DOGE in late May, but the department continued meeting to discuss postal reform with the acting postmaster general and other officials well into June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent weeks, former FedEx board member and new postmaster general, David Steiner, officially assumed control of the Postal Service according to Amber McReynolds, chairwoman of the Postal Service Board of Governors. The events of the past seven months further cloud the future of a Postal Service already shaken by years of consolidation and service cuts that disproportionately affect rural areas. Although several lawmakers in the Midwest have criticized the state of rural mail service, most ignored or declined requests from The Midwest Newsroom to clarify their positions or indicate reforms they would or would not support. They walk a fine line between an administration that prioritized cutbacks and constituents who rely on the Postal Service in increasingly isolated areas. Alan Smith, 72, is one of those constituents. The retired psychologist and Navy veteran lives 16 miles from Scottsbluff with his wife, Gwen Smith, 74. He takes medications for residual West Nile virus symptoms, arthritis, diabetes and his recovery from liver cancer, which is in remission after surgery in February. All of his prescriptions come through Veterans Affairs, mostly via mail service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alan said that system has been running smoothly in recent years but talks of Postal Service privatization and a proposed cut of 80,000 jobs from the VA worry him. Gwen Smith, left, listens to her husband, Alan Smith, talk about their life in northwestern Nebraska after she walked a quarter mile to get the mail and gave him a small parcel on May 8, 2025. The couple doesnt get to town much due to Alan Smiths health issues. They rely heavily on the Postal Service, especially for his medications. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) Its beautiful, he said of the countryside where they live. The couple doesnt get to town much due to Alan Smiths health issues. They rely heavily on the Postal Service, especially for his medications. It feels to me like its coming at me right and left, Alan Smith said, alluding to changes to the VA, Social Security, Medicare and the Postal Service. Theyre trying to destroy everything that supports me staying alive and functioning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDonald, who delivers mail to the Smiths, said, Then what happens to these people? Thats the question that keeps me up at night. Who brings these people their medications? Who brings these people their Christmas cards from their kids and their grandkids? Who brings them their checks? The Wells Fargo report Financial analysts have already been calculating what opportunities privatization of the Postal Service could bring to the delivery industry. In late February, Wells Fargos Equity Research department sent a report to investors outlining the possible impact of drastic changes to the Postal Service. The report made its way to A Grand Alliance a coalition of unions, nonprofits and civil society groups dedicated to the preservation of the Postal Service which posted it on its U.S. Mail Not for Sale campaign website. Wells Fargo acknowledged the authenticity of the report to The Midwest Newsroom, and issued a statement through a spokesperson: The research report we published did not recommend the privatization of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The report analyzed the impact that potential privatization would have on FedEx, UPS, and the transportation and shipping industry. Any suggestion that Wells Fargo has advocated for USPS privatization is misleading and inaccurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the document, Wells Fargo equity analysts concluded that increasing Postal Service revenues under privatization or a profit improvement plan would necessitate raising prices by 30% to 140% across product lines, which would benefit FedEx and UPS. It also suggested that mail and parcel delivery could be split, leaving mail delivery to the government and parcel delivery to be carved out and sold, wholesale or as stock. Mack Shelley is a professor of political science at Iowa State University. (Courtesy of Iowa State University) Iowa State University political science professor Mack Shelley called that proposition lemon socialism. Theyll say, Were going to privatize the parts that work well and make money, Shelley said. And then whats left is the lemon, hence lemon socialism. So the government is left to handle the parts of whatever service delivery are most difficult or most ineffective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elena Patel had never heard that expression. But it makes me laugh, she said. Patel is a business professor at the University of Utah and a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. She co-authored a report for the latter called Return to sender: What privatization might mean for the future of the USPS after Trump revived the issue in February. But in the intervening months, she said that the administration has accumulated other large and controversial policies. Elena Patel is a business professor at the University of Utah and a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. (Courtesy of the University of Utah) I think that people in the administration think [privatization] is the right thing to do. Im not sure that the American people or American business owners think that, Patel said. And I cant imagine theres any oxygen in the room right now for postal reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) produced a 30-second ad called Memo to bring attention to the issue of privatization ahead of the 250th anniversary of the Postal Service and the beginning of David Steiners tenure as postmaster general. It specifically criticizes the Wells Fargo document and is set to run on social media and air in select television markets, especially in the Midwest. The ads are going to run in a lot of rural American markets, because rural America is really going to take a beating if the post office was privatized, said APWU president Mark Dimondstein. With now a FedEx board member coming in to run the post office, its the old saying, you know, the fox guarding the hen house. The FedEx approach Trump won Scotts Bluff County, Neb., with 73% of the vote in 2024. The Smiths dont talk politics with their neighbors. And even though Alan Smith spends most of the day in his recliner, he avoids TV news. He said watching birds through the spotting scope at the living room window is better for his health. A rural Postal Service customer displays their political beliefs on their mailbox outside Scottsbluff in northwestern Nebraska. The numbers of the address have been digitally altered to ensure the safety and privacy of a rural Postal Service customer. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) We may be on the more liberal end of people out here, but Im still a redneck, Smith said. I might be a little more liberal than that redneck over there, pointing to no one in particular, but not that much. So I think our concerns are shared by everyone that we know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rick Wallace, 77, voted for Trump and supports his cost-cutting agenda, to a point. There are government programs that Id like to see discontinued or cut back, especially those that dont affect me, said the retired Scottsbluff firefighter.But the ones like the Postal Service, yes, we count on them. Both Smith and Wallace are constituents of Nebraskas 3rd Congressional District, which covers about 90% of the states total area but contains one-third of the population. Rick Wallace is a retired Scottsbluff, Neb., firefighter. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) Their Congressional representative, U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., did not reply to interview requests by The Midwest Newsroom. U.S. Rep. Mike Floods 1st District in eastern Nebraska is smaller and more urban, but 73% of his constituents face slower deliveries as a result of changes made by recently resigned Postmaster General DeJoy, according to Steve Hutkins, a Postal Service advocate and researcher who runs Save the Post Office. Flood said he was generally on board with DeJoys efforts, which he said aimed to preserve the Postal Service and an acceptable level of rural delivery. Postal service is essential from the standpoint of rural Nebraska, Flood said. Can it be modernized? Absolutely. Should it be privatized? Id have to be sold on what the plan was before we went anywhere near that. U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb. (Courtesy of Flood campaign) Flood said he had not heard of such a plan. But there are plans in the House and Senate to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the Federal Government and is not subject to privatization, as written in House Resolution 70 and Senate Resolution 147, which were introduced on Jan. 28 and March 27 and have 217 and eight cosponsors as of July 9. Flood is not one of the 15 Republican cosponsors of the House bill, but he worries about the FedEx approach to the U.S. mail service preferred by some reform agents during this transitional period. When asked if he was referring to Steiner, the incoming postmaster general, Flood said that the FedEx model is a longstanding fear among his constituents. I know that its a step towards privatization, Flood said. Steiner was on the FedEx board of directors when his Trump-backed appointment was announced by the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors on May 9. The National Association of Letter Carriers, the largest of the postal workers unions, warned against the appointment in a statement published on May 6. In addition to calling it a clear conflict of interest, NALC President Brian Renfroe said that private shippers have been waiting to get USPS out of parcel delivery for years. Steiners selection is an open invitation to do just that. According to Steiners most recent Securities and Exchange Commission ownership statement on Sept. 24, 2024, he holds 36,490 shares of FedEx valued at about $8.5 million as of the July 15 price. The second of 14 General Principles outlined by the U.S. Postal Service Ethics Office reads, Employees shall not hold financial interests that conflict with the conscientious performance of duty. Steiner started his tenure earlier this month after successfully completing the vetting process detailed in the Board of Governors May announcement of his appointment. In a statement to The Midwest Newsroom, Postal Service Board of Governors Chairwoman Amber McReynolds said that Steiner has completed the Form 278 financial disclosure statement required by the Office of Government Ethics. She added that All prohibited stocks have been, or are in the process, of being handled, sold, and/or divested as required by law. More than mail Despite its problems, the Postal Service remains a popular government agency with 72% approval, according to the Pew Research Center. With the exception of select services and $50 billion in financial relief passed in 2022, the Postal Service does not rely on tax dollars. So its $9.5 billion deficit in 2024 is not the responsibility of the taxpayer, but Patel said maybe it should be. The Postal Service is there to facilitate voting. It is there to deliver us legal documents from the federal government to citizens. People receive essential services through the post office, Patel said. I dont think its unreasonable to have some funding for the Postal Service so that they are not expected to operate like a private business at a profit, because they cant. Letter mail is fundamentally not profitable. Some rural Midwesterners simply want better service, no matter the ownership and revenue structure. Wallace, the retired Scottsbluff firefighter, said hed be OK with a publicly funded subsidy of the service. Harvest Public Media reported that Kyla Estes, who lives about 15 miles from Patton in southeastern Missouri, doesnt prefer privatization, unless it improves the rural system. Theres some major things there that need to be addressed as far as getting rural America our mail in a timely fashion, she said. The Midwest Newsroom reported that poultry farmers who order birds through the Postal Service often find them dead on arrival. These reported failures coincided with the rollout of the Delivering for America plan that was introduced by DeJoy in 2021, a year the Postal Service had an operating loss of $4.9 billion. The cost-cutting initiative has changed service standards and trimmed roughly 30,000 jobs since then. In an April letter to the Board of Governors, Iowa U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst called for a pause in the implementation of Delivering for America and the appointment of a new postmaster general who will reassess the nations needs and determine the best course forward for this historic institution. Her Iowa counterpart, U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, more recently called on the Board of Governors to improve rural delivery and address budget shortfalls. He called on incoming Postmaster General Steiner to be innovative in the approaches to rightsize the institution as well as flexible when reforms are not working to ensure that it fulfills its mission successfully. Both Grassley and Ernst declined requests to clarify their demands for the Postal Service, and neither are sponsors of the Senate resolution to preserve it as a government agency. U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson also declined interview requests after she echoed Grassleys sentiments during a press call in late June. Her 2nd Congressional District, which covers northeast Iowa, is projected to be the hardest hit in the state by the latest phase of the Delivering for America plan, according to data compiled by Hutkins for Save the Post Office. If fully implemented, the Regional Transportation Optimization initiative will end afternoon collections at most post offices and likely add at least another day to deliveries to and from rural addresses. About 97% of residents in Nebraskas 3rd District would experience a service downgrade, as would 100% of those in Iowas District 2, according to Hutkins. Linda Heit, 74, lives in Hinsons district on a 160-acre corn and soybean farm with her husband about 6 miles south of New Hampton, Iowa. She said she noticed in recent years that letters and packages to her children in Moline, Ill., and Lincoln, Neb. are already taking longer than they used to. Linda Heit of New Hampton, Iowa, seen here on her familys 160-acre farm on July 7, 2025, said she loves her rural letter carrier but is increasingly frustrated by the delays caused by measures to cut costs at the Postal Service. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) So I have to plan ahead and give it another day or two if I want the grandchildren to have Valentines, or if I want them to have Easter things, she said. Heit said she doesnt know if the Postal Service should remain public or go private, but she trusts her representatives to make the right decisions for their rural constituents. She said they need a plan. I think they should put together a team of people that should actually go out in the rural areas, and you check and see whats going on there, Heit said. Because theyre sitting in an office and they have no clue. That team would find people in Iowa who have to drive more than 40 minutes round-trip to go to the nearest pharmacy, according to GoodRx Health. The online resource also reports that some spend more than two hours in the car to pick up medications in Hooker County, Nebraska, which is one of 12 counties in the state that has fewer than 1,000 people. The universal service obligation requires delivery six days a week to each of the countys 314 households recorded by the Census. I worry about small rural counties in areas where we dont have any newspapers anymore, Flood said. We dont have any pharmacies. We have small critical-access hospitals, and everybody relies on the one person that we know thats always going to show up every day, and thats the post officer. Scottsbluff has pharmacies and other essential services, but those who live outside the city cannot always access them or their neighbors easily. McDonald said he has done wellness checks on customers when he noticed their mail piling up. He has transported injured and stranded farmers. He has saved injured animals and once called emergency services when lightning started a forest fire, he said. Letter carrier Roger McDonald delivers mail to a ranch on May 9, 2025, in rural Gering, Neb. McDonalds route is nearly 150 miles long and contains 334 delivery points. The long distances and low population density are often blamed in part for the annual losses reported by the Postal Service. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) McDonalds route is nearly 150 miles long and contains 334 delivery points. The long distances and low population density are often blamed in part for the annual losses reported by the Postal Service. On his recent dry run of his route, McDonald received eggs, cookies and hugs from customers along the route. Most had heard about his accident and were shocked to see how good his hand looked after reconstructive surgery. Im hoping, tomorrow, that theyll release me to go back to work, he told Gwen Smith. So I could be back on the route as early as Friday. McDonald is one of about 534,000 full-time Postal Service employees, according to its Office of Inspector General, of whom the majority are represented by unions that collectively bargain for competitive salaries and better benefits, but also contribute to operational losses. There are times when Im driving this route through three and four-foot snow drifts, and its a challenge just to get through a day, McDonald said. But Im committed to doing that. And part of the reason that Im committed to doing that is because of the kind of job this is, the amount of pay that I receive, the benefits that come along with it, the security thats provided to us through union efforts. Letter carrier Roger McDonald delivers mail to a ranch on May 9, 2025, in rural Gering, Neb. McDonalds route is nearly 150 miles long and contains 334 delivery points. The long distances and low population density are often blamed in part for the annual losses reported by the Postal Service. (Nick Loomis/The Midwest Newsroom) McDonald said whatever changes are ahead for postal delivery services, including possible privatization, he hopes the overall value beyond profit is considered. If you reduce it to dollars and cents, the math becomes very easy. But its all the other things, he said, citing the dependence on the service, the sense of community, the stable jobs, the safety and security function. Its not only valuable to the Postal Service and our mission. Its valuable to the community. And I just think theres some things about what we do that cannot be quantified in dollars and cents. The Midwest Newsroom is an investigative and enterprise journalism collaboration that includes Nebraska Public Media, Iowa Public Radio, KCUR, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR. The Midwest Newsroom is a partner of The Trust Project. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Professional Bull Riders, the largest bull-riding league in the world, has filed an objection to the bankruptcy proceedings of Dr. Phil McGraws media network, claiming it is owed $181 million. McGraw launched a conservative-leaning cable network in April 2024 called Merit Street Media. Barely a year later the network filed for bankruptcy and filed a lawsuit against its distribution partner Trinity Broadcasting for breach of contract earlier this month. In its lawsuit, the media network claimed Trinity reneged on its obligations and abused its position as the controlling shareholder of Merit Street, leaving it over $100 million in debt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Professional Bull Riders, which pulled its programming from Merit Street Media last November, has been trying to hold McGraw personally responsible for the millions it says its owed by Merit Street. Professional Bull Riders, the largest bull-riding league in the world, has filed an objection to the bankruptcy proceedings of Dr. Phil McGraws media network, claiming it is owed $181 million (AFP/Getty) McGraws lawyers, through legal filings, have rejected the premise that their client should be personally responsible for money Merit Street is accused of owing, according to The Dallas Morning News. It asked the court late last week to strike a provision in the networks bankruptcy case called an interested parties release, the publication reported. This provision could release non-debtor parties, such as McGraw and his Peteski Productions company, from claims from creditors, such as the bull riding league, against the debtor, which would be Merit Street Media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bull riding league cut ties with Merit Street Media just months after signing a four-year contract with the network. At the time, the league said it was because of failure to make payments for rights fees. PBR honored its contract with Dr. Phils Merit Street Media, delivered on every performance metric, and brought more than one million viewers to the new network. Dr. Phil and his company completely reneged on the deal just five months in, the league said in a statement last Friday, per The Dallas Morning News. Chip Babcock, an attorney for Peteski Productions, called the leagues objection more appropriate fodder for the press than the Court, the publication reported. To the extent they are relevant to any issue in the case we are confident the judge will deal with it appropriately, Babcock added. The Independent has reached out to Merit Street Media for comment. MEMPHIS, Tenn. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) just announced the launch of TN Direct Admissions, a new program to help simplify students search for colleges they could attend. According to a press release by THEC, the new program will automatically accept eligible high school seniors into in-state public and private universities including the states community and technical colleges (TCAT). THEC stated the following in a press release: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research shows that the college application and financial aid process often feels too complex, causing many students to give up before competing their applications. One in four students start an application, but never finish. To address these challenges, Tennessees Direct Admissions Pilot is the first in the nation to directly connect automatic college admissions with state-supported and merit-based financial aid. Grocery planned at Bartletts Union Depot addition This fall, 53 universities and higher education institutions in Tennessee will be participating in the new program. And in November, approximately 41,000 high school seniors graduating in 2026 chosen from a group of randomly selected high schools in Tennessee will receive a TN Direct Admissions letter listing in-state and TCAT colleges they have been automatically accepted into. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be eligible, students only need to complete the Tennessee Promise application that is due by November 1. For more information about this program, 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. A property owner on Vancouver Island was handed a $60,000 fine for altering a riverbank that was part of a salmon habitat without proper permissions, as Victoria Buzz reported. Fisheries and Oceans Canada found the damage to the Trent River on the property of David Tingley in May 2020. The Trent River is a vital habitat for salmon. Tingley was given a month to fix the damage but failed to do so, incurring a $60,000 fine. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans said that Tingley had failed "to correct work that he had done illegally on his property, that affected fish and fish habitat on the Trent River," though it did not provide specific details about the type of work along the river, such as whether Tingley built any structures or changed the shape of the riverbank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Protecting fish and fish habit is vital to help sustain and support Canada's precious marine species," the DFO wrote. "Under Canada's Fisheries Act, measures must be taken to avoid causing the death of fish and any harmful alteration, disruption, or destruction of fish habitat when conducting any work or activities in or near water." Salmon are vital to the ecosystem. According to the Wild Salmon Center, at least 137 species rely on salmon for food. To humans, salmon have been a source of food and identity for as long as Native populations have lived in the area. Salmon are also a vital business in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest, contributing $3 billion to the industry and tens of thousands of jobs. However, salmon populations are declining because of logging, dams, and overfishing, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Other factors, such as pharmaceutical pollution and rising water temperatures, have affected salmon behavior, decreasing their reproductive cycles and lowering their presence in the food chain. Protected, clean waterways help ensure salmon populations stay healthy and can reproduce to maintain ecosystems, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revealed. This isn't the first instance of a fine charged against property owners that affected salmon in the area. A B.C. man was fined $70,000 for dredging a creek, which led to a decline in the local salmon population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With fines, the DFO is able to carry out its mission of protecting the salmon populations of the Trent River and beyond. The money will go toward "the Environmental Damages Fund for the conservation and protection of salmon and salmon habitat in the Vancouver Island region," the agency's statement said. Conservation efforts have helped salmon populations all over the world. In England, salmon were able to spawn in one area after the removal of a dam. In Ireland, a revolutionary machine that allows 100 million salmon to travel across a previously impassible area was installed after successful testing in the United States and Canada. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. A project to cut homeless numbers in half in Melbourne is moving forward. The Daily Bread soup kitchen closed in May. Since then, leaders have been working toward opening a new facility called Providence Place. It would be located on Apollo Boulevard near NASA Boulevard. I was basically on the streets, I had a vehicle at that time, I was sleeping in the vehicle, Daniel Bennett said. I was living on the street for a while, Steve Williams said. The whole thing was bad. It was bad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experiencing homelessness is something they said they will never forget. Through help at the Daily Bread, the pair landed as roommates at Heritage Park Apartments in Melbourne. The apartment is nice, Bennett said. The people are nice. Its actually a nice place to live. This is a lot better, Williams said. A lot better. Helping people like them is the exact goal of Providence Place. Its not a shelter, Jeffrey Njus, the Executive Director for the Daily Bread, now rebranded as Providence Connects, said. Its not a transition for people. Its earmarked for the person who needs support to overcome their homeless situation with a real home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providence Place will be a 120-unit community for those coming out of homelessness. Njus said Providence Place will cut down homelessness in the city by 50%. How do you think this project can do that? Channel 9s Sam Martello asked. If you look at our city in Melbourne, theres probably about 250-300 people sleeping outside any given night, Njus said. If were housing about 200 people at Providence Place that cuts that number in half. Its a project with a $17 million price tag. The city has already agreed to provide $3 million in funding. Njus said $6 million will come through donations from people, churches, and businesses. Another $10 million will come from people and foundations who are taking out zero interest to low interest loans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project was expedited with the closure of the Daily Bread. That closure was forced by concerns from nearby residents. The new location has few homes immediately nearby. With the stability were providing at Providence Place it will be solving neighborhood problems not bringing neighborhood problems, Njus said. Permitting for Providence Place has already been submitted to the city. Leaders aim to break ground by the end of the year, with a grand opening scheduled for 2027. Anyone looking to live at Providence Place will have to go through an assessment process with the Brevard Homeless Coalition. This will be made available when the community gets closer to its opening.NASA Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Proposed price labeling changes debated in Massachusetts Proposed changes to unit pricing labels in Massachusetts could make them smaller and allow different colors, sparking debate among consumer advocates and industry representatives. The Division of Standards is considering revisions to unit pricing regulations that would reduce the size of unit price labels and permit a variety of background colors instead of the traditional orange. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for retailers but have raised concerns among consumer advocates who argue it may hinder consumers ability to compare prices effectively. Edgar Dworsky, founder of ConsumerWorld.org, testified against the proposed changes at a state house hearing, emphasizing that smaller labels could make it difficult for consumers, especially older ones, to read unit prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They want to make it only six millimeters, Dworsky said. Thats less than a quarter of an inch. According to Dworsky, the hearing saw participation from five speakers, with four representing consumer groups and one from the industry. The Mass Retailers Associations general counsel supported the changes, citing increased flexibility for businesses. Consumer advocates expressed concerns that the changes could be confusing for shoppers, particularly if unit prices are displayed on backgrounds traditionally used for sale prices, such as yellow. For over 50 years weve been telling people look for the orange unit price on the shelf. That will help you find the best deal and compare prices more easily and save money, Dworsky said. Whats the reason that you would want a different color? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dworsky highlighted that while the proposed regulations might make unit prices less visible, they do include a positive aspect: unit prices will have to be consistent regardless of any discounts or digital coupons applied, making it easier for consumers to compare prices. The Division of Standards is accepting feedback from consumers and businesses until the end of the month, after which they will decide on the final rules. You can view the proposal here. You can email the Division of Standards at standards.mail@mass.gov 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 The man who allegedly plowed into several dozen clubgoers in East Hollywood early Saturday morning will face more than 70 criminal counts, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced Tuesday. Fernando Ramirez, 29, will face 37 counts of attempted murder and 37 counts of assault with a deadly weapon, said Hochman, who explained the 37 counts are for each victim and the deadly weapon used in this alleged attack was the car. At about 2 a.m., the San Clemente resident Ramirez drove his car onto the sidewalk outside a club in the 1000 block of North Vermont Avenue, where he struck a crowd of people, Hochman alleged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochman said that while hes thankful no one died, there were many serious injuries inflicted, including serious fractures, lacerations and broken bones. But for the grace of God, this couldve been a mass-casualty incident, he said. It is truly a miracle that nobody was killed that night, said Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell. Fernando Ramirez is seen in an undated booking photo released Jan 10, 2020, by the Orange County District Attorneys Office. At least 30 were injured after a car plowed into crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub. July 19, 2025. (RMGNews) At least 30 were injured after a car plowed into crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub. July 19, 2025. (RMGNews) At least 30 were injured after a car plowed into crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub. July 19, 2025. (RMGNews) At least 30 were injured after a car plowed into crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub. July 19, 2025. (okramtattoos) At least 30 were injured after a car plowed into crowd outside an East Hollywood nightclub. July 19, 2025. (okramtattoos) As for Ramirezs alleged motivation, that will come out in a court of law, the prosecutor said. If convicted, Ramirez could receive multiple life sentences. Ahead of his trial, hes being held without bail. Hes scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday. Mr. Ramirez will face the full accountability for his actions when we get him into court, and we look forward to that opportunity, to presenting that evidence to, if its a jury, a jury, and convicting him on each and every one of these counts At that point, well tell the judge to put him away for the rest of his life, Hochman said. Police are searching for man suspected of shooting a driver who plowed into an East Hollywood nightclub crowd, injuring 37 people on July, 19 2025. (LAPD) Another man who allegedly shot Ramirez in the buttocks after the crash is still being sought by police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand the emotions involved, but when the threat had ended and the suspect was no longer actively harming others, the use of deadly force was both unlawful and dangerous to everybody present, McDonnell 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 KTLA. TOWN OF DICKINSON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) Some peace activists opposed to the War in Gaza are demanding that a show of support for Israel be removed from public property. Members of Broome County Peace Action, Veterans for Peace and Pax Christi held a small rally near the Broome County Jail this afternoon to protest the Israeli flag flying outside of the County Public Safety Facility. Sheriff Fred Akshar directed that the flag be flown shortly after the Hamas terror attacks of October 7th, 2023. The protesters say the county government should not be showing support for a country that they claim has murdered tens of thousands of innocent women and children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kalieb DeShaw is a member of Binghamton Solidarity for Palestine, a coalition of Binghamton University students and community members. DeShaw says the flag is alienating to local Palestinian-Americans and other Muslims who come to the Sheriffs Office seeking help. Protester Kalieb DeShaw says, The sheriffs departments, along with all other law enforcement agencies, have a duty to the public to remain politically neutral. The decision to fly the Israeli flag in the absence of any other nations besides the United States being represented, very well seems to be a political statement in support of the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Activists are collecting petition signatures asking County Executive Jason Garnar and the Broome County Legislature direct Akshar to remove the flag. The Sheriff issued a statement saying that he is proud to stand against hate at a time when Jewish people in Broome County are being subjected to antisemitic rhetoric. Advertisement 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. On the evening of 23 July, protests began in various Ukrainian cities over draft law No. 12414, which restricts the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). The day before, it was signed by the president. Source: Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne; Telegraf, online media outlet in the city of Kremenchuk; Ukrainska Pravda correspondents Details: People have started gathering in Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, Kremenchuk, Chernivtsi and Dnipro. In Kyiv, a protest near the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theater was scheduled for 20:00. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As calculated by Suspilne, protests were announced in at least 17 cities. People protesting in Chernihiv. Photo: Ukrainska Pravda People protesting in Chernihiv. Photo: Ukrainska Pravda People protesting in Chernivtsi. Photo: Suspilne Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People protesting in Dnipro. Photo: Suspilne People protesting in Dnipro. Photo: Suspilne People protesting in Lviv Photo: Tanya Platsok, Ukrainska Pravda People protesting in Lviv Photo: Tania platsok, Ukrainska Pravda Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protest in Lviv Photo: Khrystyna Bondareva, European Pravda Protest in Zaporizhya Photo: Suspilne Protest in Kyiv Photo: Ukrainska Pravda Protest in Kyiv Photo: Ukrainska Pravda Later, protests were also reported in Kryvyi Rih, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil and Kharkiv. Readers of Ukrainska Pravda also reported about protests in Uzhhorod, Odesa and Ivano-Frankivsk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protest in Uzhhorod Photo: Readers of Ukrainska pravda Protests in Ivano-Frankivsk Photo: Readers of Ukrainska pravda The previous day, protests were already held in Kyiv, Dnipro, Odesa, Lviv, Sumy, Lutsk and other cities. Background: On 21 July, employees of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office conducted approximately 80 searches targeting 19 employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau in various oblasts of Ukraine. On 22 July, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) voted for draft law No. 12414 that would make the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) currently independent anti-corruption institutions dependent on the decisions of the prosecutor general. On the evening of 22 July, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed bill No. 12414. Protests were held in many cities across Ukraine following the adoption of this legislative initiative. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) The Providence City Council is preparing to vote Thursday on a controversial proposal that would allow a local charter school to lease the abandoned Carl G. Lauro Elementary School building. The resolution would grant Excel Academy a 35-year lease of the Kenyon Street property, which has sat vacant for years and costs the city approximately $300,000 annually to maintain. New lease proposal Significant changes have been made after the council rejected the original $1 lease agreement last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the new agreement, Excel Academy would pay $7.50 per square foot with a gradual escalation of rent every five years. The charter school will also have to commit to revitalizing the school building and provide $50,000 annually for the neighborhood improvement plan. Excel Academy will have to produce an annual student report as well, which will allow the council and the Providence School Board to compare academic performance with those in traditional public schools. Half of the building would also be designated as swing space for the Providence Public School Department as the district modernizes their current school buildings. Supporters see opportunity Manny Almonte lives near Carl Lauro and told 12 News its a shame to see it in its current condition. Hes hopeful the abandoned building will become his daughters new school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its simple. I dont see why you would go against it, Almonte said. Excel Academy said most of their students live in Providence, but currently commute to their North Providence campus. A larger, local facility would allow them to better serve families and eventually expand. I think to really be embedded into the community that we are a part of would be a wonderful thing, Excel Academy Head of School Kate Ring said. The Rhode Island Education Collective has also endorsed the proposal. Rhode Island Education Collective CEO Victor Capellan called the plan a win-win, noting that it would bring the building back into use and promote collaboration between the charter school and Providence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has an opportunity to go back to being a school and at the same time to put some money into the city coffers, which will help us as taxpayers here in the city of Providence, Capellan said. Capellan added that the organization will invest another $1.25 million to ensure collaboration between Excel Academy and the school district. Excel Academys Kate Apfelbaum said the amended lease offers and opportunity for partnership and progress. It supports Providence Public Schools in its efforts to modernize its school buildings and will save the City and its taxpayers $700,000 per year, Apfelbaum said. Were proud to revitalize the historic Carl G. Lauro School building and embrace our role as a long-term, collaborative neighbor investing in Federal Hill. Opponents raise concerns Despite revisions to the lease terms, the proposal still faces opposition, especially from members of the Providence School Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics argue that expanding charter schools could lead to a drop in enrollment at traditional public schools, ultimately reducing state funding for the district. This is not fair, Providence School Board President Tyrelle Stephens said. We are giving this building away and losing millions more, right after asking taxpayers to pay more money. Stephens said some of the recent financial issues the district has been facing is because they have lost more than 4,000 students since 2020. We have enough charter schools here where students will have a choice to pick between which schools that they want to go, Stephens explained. My goal is to make sure that families that are not able to go into a charter school feels comfortable with public school, with the public school system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Providence City Council members also expressed hesitation because of broader equity concerns within the education system. The problem that I have is that there are two systems, Council President Rachel Miller said during the committee meeting. I want there to be genuine equity for all students and their families. Earlier this year, the Providence City Council commissioned a study to explore whether the building could be repurposed for housing. The study concluded that though it is technically possible, it was not reasonably feasible because it would cost too much and have a lengthy timeline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephens and other school board members stressed that the building has potential and can be used as a community hub for youth and adult programs. We have options to use this building and what to use it for, and I think that we over the next couple of years could decide exactly what that looks like, Stephens said. The fate of the building now rests with the Providence City Council, which is expected to vote on the lease agreement Thursday. The lease only requires one vote to go into effect. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Advertisement 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. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. PROVO, Utah (ABC4) A Provo man has been arrested and charged after allegedly attempting to meet up with a 13-year-old who was an undercover officer. Chad Sean Oshley, 43, has been charged with attempted rape of a child, attempted sodomy on a child, attempted aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, enticement of a minor, obstruction of justice in a criminal investigation, and interference with a police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on July 17, 2025, law enforcement went undercover as a 13-year-old male child on social media. The suspect, later identified as Oshley, began engaging in conversation with who he believed to be a 13-year-old. The conversation between Oshley and the alleged 13-year-old moved to texting, where the undercover officer used the account to say he lived in Provo and reaffirmed that he was a minor. Oshley stated that he wanted to meet with the child. READ NEXT: Orem man charged with 41 felonies for possessing, distributing CSAM online At this point, documents say that the conversation turned sexual, and Oshley repeatedly asked who he believed to be a 13-year-old for sexual images of himself. Oshley organized an in-person meeting in Provo on the same day, July 17, and the alleged 13-year-old provided a meeting location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oshley arrived at the meeting location in a white truck, which he described to the 13-year-old over text. Law enforcement attempted a felony stop on Oshley, but he refused to leave his vehicle for more than 30 minutes while officers commanded him to exit the truck. A drone was used for surveillance, and allegedly caught Oshley dismantling and destroying a Samsung tablet, scattering the pieces around the truck cab. He also called his wife and told her he had been talking to someone online, according to documents. At this point, officers were able to take Oshley into custody. He was taken to the Provo Police Department, but denied an interview. Oshley was booked into the Utah County Jail and is currently being held without bail. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. Las Vegas(KLAS)-Next week is National Chicken Wing Day and PTs is hosting a Chicken Wing Eating contest Bradley Manchester, Corporate Executive Chef of PTs Taverns joined us with the 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 KLAS. Donald Trump won the presidency in part on promises to deport immigrants who have criminal records and lack permanent legal status. But his earliest executive orderstrying to undo birthright citizenship, suspending critical refugee programsmade clear he wants to attack immigrants with permanent legal status too. In our series Who Gets to Be American This Week?, well track the Trump administrations attempts to exclude an ever-growing number of people from the American experiment. Weve been hearing for years about Americas broken immigration system while also watching Congress fail to pass legislation to address it. Last year, polling found that immigration was the top issue voters were concerned about heading into the 2024 election. Part of that was surely driven by the right demonizing immigrants and using them as a scapegoat for the countrys problems. At the same time, years of inaction from Congress to fix a dysfunctional system compounded by the fact that there are very limited legal avenues for immigrating to this country contributed to creating an untenable situation at the borderand bred resentment among immigrants whove been in the country for decades toward more recent arrivals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of that helped propel Trump into office again on a promise to carry out mass deportations. But six months into his second term, his chaotic and lawless methods are proving unpopularand recent polling is showing high levels of support for expanding legal immigration. Against that backdrop, a coalition of Democratic and Republican members of Congress is reintroducing a comprehensive immigration bill that would create a legal pathway to residency for the 13.7 million people living and working in the U.S. with varying legal statuses. Heres the immigration news were keeping an eye on this week: Last week, a group of 20 Democratic and Republican lawmakers reintroduced the Dignity Act, a bill that was first released in 2023. After making revisions that narrow eligibility for U.S. citizenship and eliminate overlap from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that passed earlier this month, the latest version of the Dignity Act attempts to find a solution to immigration issues that have been lingering for the better part of the past three decades. The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: secure the border, stop illegal immigration, and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work, said Republican Rep. Maria Salazar in a statement. No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salazars bill would establish the Dignity Program, a temporary pathway to legal status. Only people who have been in the U.S. without legal status since before 2021 would be eligible to apply, after passing a criminal background check and submitting a $1,000 fee. If selected, these immigrants would be considered in Dignity Status, allowing them to legally work and live in the U.S. for up to seven years, with protection from deportation. They would not be eligible for any federal benefits or entitlement programs like Medicaid or food stamps. To maintain this status, they must continue paying $1,000 every year. Once their seven years are up, individuals would be allowed to reapply to the Dignity Program. These benefits are similar to what a green card offers, but without the pathway to U.S. citizenship or the ability to sponsor family members to immigrate to the U.S. Its far from a perfect solution, but it does make a substantial attempt to create desperately needed stability for millions of immigrants whove been living in the U.S. largely in the shadows. The steep fees of the Dignity Program will undoubtedly push it out of reach for many immigrants, but Jorge Loweree, managing director of programs and strategy at American Immigration Council, told me that was intentional on the part of lawmakers to ensure it was not considered amnesty: These are strict requirements that not everyone will be able to achieve and represents a real sacrifice on the part of many, perhaps most of the people, who would seek to avail themselves of this program. The Dignity Act also creates a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, people who were brought to the U.S. as childrenthe group that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program was designed for. It also includes a mandate for Homeland Security to build humanitarian campuses at the border where social workers, case managers, and legal support would be offered to asylum-seekers. Public opinion on immigration is shifting, with a recent Gallup poll of about 1,400 U.S. adults finding that 78 percent of Americans approve of allowing immigrants without legal status a chance to become U.S. citizens, which could increase the chances of Congress actually passing a bill that expands legal immigration. Loweree is cautiously optimistic about it. The stars will have to align for immigration reform to finally happen in the U.S. But I think were seeing things trending in a direction where there may be space and possibility for meaningful negotiations to take place, he said. The White House has mostly brushed off such polling, insisting Americans are happy that Donald Trump is keeping his mass deportation promise and that his immigration agenda has bipartisan support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, some bills to further limit immigration may be heading back to Congress. Republican Rep. Jim Jordan is reportedly thinking of reviving his hard-line bill that passed the House last year. Rep. Chip Roy also recently introduced two immigration bills, one aimed at completely ending temporary protected status and another eliminating the executive branchs authority to shield immigrants from deportations by invoking national security powers. Such bills would face a steep hurdle in the Senate, where they could be filibustered. In a typical administration, there are about 700 immigration judges posted throughout the country, each fulfilling a critical job: deciding whether someone should be allowed to remain in the country and approving or rejecting asylum applications and other immigration case decisions. Since Trump assumed the presidency earlier this year, his administration has fired a slew of these judges, even as 3.5 million cases remain pending in immigration court. Three immigration judges in Chicago were recently fired without cause, including Assistant Chief Immigration Judge Jennifer Peyton. She explained to local TV station WTTW that she was first appointed to an immigration judgeship back in 2016 by the Obama administration, but was kept on during Trumps first term. However, since Trump assumed office again, theres been a drastic shift. Four of our senior leadership in the Executive Office for Immigration Review were fired within hours of inauguration, Peyton said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carla Espinoza is another Chicago immigration judge who was recently fired, finding out while she was on the bench about to announce a decision. She told WTTW that ideally, immigration judges should resolve about 700 cases a year. My first fiscal year, I adjudicated over 1,000 cases. I was praised by government attorneys, the private bar. I had (positive) reviews from my chief judge so it was not a performance issue. Homero Lopez, legal director of Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy, was chosen as an appellate immigration judge under the Biden administration. He was fired by the Trump administration while still serving his probationary period back in February. Its pretty clear that the administration is trying to set up a system where the immigration judges will implement the administrations policy of mass deportation, Lopez told me, instead of giving people a fair shot at due process. According to the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, the union representing immigration judges, some 50 immigration judges have been terminated so far. Yet at the same time, Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill, which awarded Homeland Security $3.3 billion for immigration case prosecutions and to hire new immigration judges. Immigration judges are considered federal employees, as they are not part of the judiciary, but the executive branch. People can apply to an immigration judgeship and after a probationary period, the attorney general goes on to appoint thembut its not a lifetime appointment. While this makes immigration judges fireable under certain circumstances, just like any other federal employee, there is typically not much turnover among immigration judges even if the White House flips parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lopez believes all of these firings are likely going to make current and future immigration judges second-guess their opinions on cases, particularly ones where they are inclined to rule in favor of the immigrant. Its this way of weaponizing the system, because its not an independent body, Lopez said. Instead, its a system that the president and his administration can mold into what they want their policy to look like. The Trump administrations mass deportation agenda has sent an influx of people to detention facilities, particularly in Florida, where, since January, theres been a 46 percent increase in the number of detainees. Human Rights Watch found that this is creating a deadly situation for immigrants. The global advocacy group, alongside Americans for Immigrant Justice and Sanctuary of the South, published a report detailing findings that three Florida detention centers are denying people medical care and food, and placing them in dirty cells. At least three people have died in federal immigration custody there this year. Floridas three detention centers include Krome North Service Processing Center, Broward Transitional Center, and Federal Detention Center. In Krome, Human Rights Watch found that detainees were being routinely held in freezing cells that were over capacity while being denied bedding and access to basic hygiene. One man told the advocacy groups that he was forced to sleep next to a toilet in a room so crowded that people had to step over each other to move. Another said he was denied access to soap or water for 20 consecutive days, Human Rights Watch said. At Krome after processing, some cells held more than double their intended capacity. Detainees at all three facilities alleged that they were denied medical care for chronic conditions including diabetes, asthma, and HIV. Many of these people were taken to a hospital only after experiencing a medical emergency, including Harpinder Chauhan, a British entrepreneur detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Despite having both diabetes and heart disease, Chauhan said he was denied insulin at various points during his detention at Krome, FDC, and BTC. At one point he collapsed, and only then was he taken to a hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, the report said, a Haitian woman detained at BTC died after she received delayed emergency medical care. A Ukrainian detainee died at Krome after being denied treatment for high blood pressure. His wife told Human Rights Watch that he experienced heart palpitations, but immigration officers still denied him immediate medical care. He was eventually taken to a hospital, where he later died. The report, which goes on to describe at length many more instances of abuse by immigration detention officers, is the result of interviews with 11 immigrants who were held across Floridas three detention facilities, along with family members of seven detainees. Federal immigration documents and ICE data were also analyzed. Human Rights Watch says these conditions not only violate international law but also U.S. government detention standards. People in immigration detention are being treated as less than human, Belkis Wille, associate crisis and conflict director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. These are not isolated incidents, but rather the result of a fundamentally broken detention system that is rife with serious abuses. Meanwhile, Florida has established yet another detention center thats already facing allegations of inhumane conditions. Those being held at the new state-run facility, which Trump has dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, have described cage-like cells full of mosquitoes. Detainees have also reported a lack of food and medical care. Florida is far from the first state to face such allegations. In a damning report published last year, Louisianas detention facilities were accused of denying people translation services, food, drinking water, and medical care, while also physically abusing detainees, including through sexual and verbal abuse, solitary confinement, and retaliation. When two alleged porch pirates approached a package in Denton, they found a rank surprise. The resident had filled the box with days-old cat litter. A Ring doorbell camera captured this incident on Monday, around 3:15 p.m. in Dentons Veranda Apartments. The video shows two apparent porch pirates examining a box outside a residents door then recoiling in apparent disgust before walking away. The resident had decided to fill a box with dirty cat litter thats been marinating in the sun since last weekend, according to a post on the doorbell app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resident said they have had multiple packages stolen, and expressed concern the men were bold enough to steal right in front of [a] Ring camera. Denton Police Department Spokeswoman Lacy Fenn told The Dallas Express this resident apparently did not report this incident. She said there have been two reported package thefts across the city in the past month. We encourage anyone who has been a victim of mail theft to report it to the Denton Police Department, Fenn said. Earlier this month, a Ring doorbell captured a man with a knife approaching a Denton home, as The Dallas Express reported. Residents in Dallas have also been using the app to share instances of attempted break-ins. Push for new hospital in Dayton rejected by commissioners A proposal for a new tax levy to fund a public hospital in West Dayton will not appear on the November ballot after a deadlocked vote by the Dayton City Council. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The proposal, which aimed to establish a one-mill tax levy to generate $2 million annually, was intended to replace the services lost when Premier Health closed the Good Samaritan Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There has been no site identified for this project; the funding is woefully insufficient, Dayton City Commissioner Chris Shaw said. Bishop Richard Cox of the Clergy Community Coalition appealed to the council, saying, We appeal to your compassion, we appeal to your graciousness. TRENDING STORIES: Weve jumped through all the hoops. Put it on the ballot. Let the voters decide, Kathleen Gaul of the Clergy Community Coalition said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Clergy Community Coalition, which has been advocating for the levy, argues that residents of North and West Dayton need hospital care closer to their homes after the closure of Good Samaritan Hospital. Despite the coalitions efforts, including gathering 1,250 valid signatures to qualify the issue for the ballot, the councils 2-2 vote with one abstention prevented the measure from moving forward. Nancy Kiehl of the Clergy Community Coalition expressed frustration with the councils decision. We will do this, and well do your job because you failed to do your job, Kiehl said. Commissioners defended their decision, emphasizing the need to protect taxpayers and city budgets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant just say, we hope its going to happen or we think its going to happen, Commissioner Matt Joseph said. Shaw highlighted the potential financial impact on the city, noting that filling the funding gap could necessitate cuts to essential services like police, fire, and public works. The deadlock in the Dayton City Council has stalled efforts to bring the tax levy proposal to voters. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Questions swirl after Louisiana Republican Senator John Kennedy appeared to freeze up mid-sentence during a Fox Business interview. The 73-year-old appeared on Kudlow Tuesday night when he began stuttering and froze while responding to host Larry Kudlow. Some social media users have blamed his age and speculated that he was having a Mitch McConnell-esque freezing spell. In a statement to The Independent, the senator said there was a malfunction in his earpiece that caused him to suddenly stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clip, which aired Tuesday, captures Kennedy starting to respond to Kudlow, before trailing off, and then abruptly stopping altogether: Im sure Jesus loves them, but everybody else thinkseverybody else The senator then stared off to the side with his mouth still open for seven seconds. As the septuagenarian was at a standstill, the network cut away. Kudlow apologized for what appeared to be technical problems that the show had also experienced with Senator Rand Paul earlier in the day. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy appeared to freeze up during an interview. However, his team said it was due to a 'malfunction' with his earpiece. (AP) Some social media users used the incident to call for term limits. Senator John Kennedy just pulled a McConnell, one X user remarked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another wondered: 73 year old Senator John Kennedy freezes mid-sentence on national TV. Is it time for term limits? Yet another said: Sen. John Kennedy's freeze on live TV is a stark reminder of the urgent need for term limits and younger, more dynamic leadership to address critical issues like immigration reform effectively. Another still called it jarring and noted that Kennedy froze up while repeating a line hes used many times before: Jesus loves him, but everyone else thinks he's an idiot. Kennedy maintained that he experienced a glitch with his earpiece during the interview. Yesterday, during my interview with Larry Kudlow on Fox Business, there was a malfunction in my earpiece. I heard a loud screeching noise with a lot of static. It sounded like a 747 taking off, he told The Independent in a statement. The same thing happened with Rand Paul, who was interviewed before me. I stopped talking until the interference cleared up, and thought we were off the air. Once I could hear Kudlow, I started talking again. Senator Mitch McConnell freezes during a press conference in 2023, weeks after he had a similar episode (WCPO via AP) The moment resembles Kentucky Republican Senator Mitch McConnells freezing spells in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one incident, a reporter asked McConnell, then the 81-year-old Senate minority leader, about his thoughts about running for re-election in three years. The Kentucky Senator asked the reporter to repeat the question before freezing up and staring off into the distance. One of his aides then joined him at the podium and asked directly if he had heard the question. Still not responsive, the aide said they would need a minute. McConnells spokesperson later said he felt momentarily lightheaded and paused during his press conference. Just weeks earlier, a similar scene transpired, with McConnell freezing for 20 seconds when fielding questions. The incidents sparked alarm among his Congressional colleagues and renewed calls for term limits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, then-Rep. Dean Phillips, a Minnesota Democrat, said its time for term limits in a social media post. "For goodness sake, the family, friends, and staff of Senators Feinstein and McConnell are doing them and our country a tremendous disservice. It's time for term limits for Congress and the Supreme Court, and some basic human decency," he wrote on X in August 2023. In February, McConnell said he will not seek re-election at the end of his term. Similar concerns around age arose when Dianne Feinstein missed 10 weeks of work at age 89. In May 2023, the California Democrat, then longest-serving woman in the Senate, had been recovering from shingles. As some of her colleagues called for Feinstein to resign, Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, who was also 89, told The Independent at the time: That's very anti-woman, it's very anti-aging and they should just let her leave her alone. The 2024 presidential race also resurfaced age-old questions about whether an upper age limit should exist. Joe Biden and Donald Trump were the two oldest candidates to ever run for a major party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden mumbled and stumbled through his first debate performance last summer, shocking the world. Since then, a book by CNN host Jake Tapper and Axios journalist Alex Thompson has gone so far as to claim the cover-up of Bidens cognitive decline was worse than Watergate. President Donald Trump even ordered an investigation into "who ran the United States while President Biden was in office. Meanwhile, some have questioned Trumps mental fitness, citing his rambling speeches. Upper Seven lawyers Molly Danahy, left, and Rylee Sommers-Flanagan, founder, argue Christopher Martinez should be released because he was unlawfully detained by ICE. The U.S. government argues the case should be in a different jurisdiction. (Keila Szpaller/The Daily Montanan) We the people imagine that liberty is protected by constitutional guarantees so fundamental they apply to all. Were told that no personcitizen or notcan be detained without cause, interrogated without counsel, or punished without process. But from family court to immigration detention to the streets of Montana, that promise is erodingnot loudly or all at once, but slowly and administratively. Here in Montana, were watching this erosion in real time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Martinez Marvan vs. Scott, racial profiling by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and local police led to a traffic stop. No citation was issued. No warrant was shown. Within minutes, ICE agents in an unmarked van had taken Helena resident Christopher Martinez-Marvan. His attorneys filed a habeas corpus petition in federal court, asking Judge Dana Christensen to rule on the constitutional violationsto recognize this for what it was: a deprivation of liberty rooted in racial profiling. But the government had an answer: This isnt criminal. Its civiland its administrative. Under current law, that distinction is everything. Civil proceedings like immigration enforcement do not carry the same constitutional protections as criminal trials. No exclusionary rule bars evidence obtained through unlawful searches. There is no guaranteed right to counsel. No judge reviews probable cause. In these proceedings, the Constitution simply does not show up the way it does for criminal defendants. And its not limited to immigration. Police departments across the country use civil asset forfeiture to seize homes and vehicles without convicting anyone of a crime. Child protective services remove children based on anonymous tips, often without judicial hearings or legal representation for parents. Unhoused people are jailed for violating civil ordinances that criminalize sitting, sleeping, or existing in public. Veterans, immigrants, people with disabilities, and the poor all encounter systems that look, sound, and feel punitive. This is not mere bureaucratic overreachits deliberate. By labeling harmful state actions as civil, the government sidesteps the constitutional scrutiny the Framers intended for precisely these moments of vulnerability. The result is a two-tiered legal system: One in which violent criminals and white-collar fraudsters enjoy full due process, and another in which people like Christopher Martinez-Marvan are disappeared into unmarked vans for having the wrong skin tone in the wrong zip code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Courts have largely permitted this erosion, citing congressional intent, immigration exceptionalism, or the supposed benignity of civil remedies. But the harms inflicted on vulnerable communities are anything but benign. Family separation, indefinite detention, and financial ruin are no less devastating simply because they are classified as civil or administrative. More broadly, we the people must scrutinize every system that wields state power without constitutional accountability. If due process can be bypassed simply by calling something civil, then the Constitution is not a guaranteeits a loophole. This erosion will continue until we confront it for what it truly is: A deliberate circumvention of the Constitutiona slow, calculated dismantling of liberty through administrative power. ROSLYN, Long Island (PIX11) Its a disease thats so serious that only 14 people have ever survived it. Now that the number of reported non-human rabies cases has skyrocketed in Nassau County, its health commissioner has declared it to be an imminent public health threat to residents through animal transmission. More Local News Some pet owners said that theyre taking the threat very seriously, and are in disbelief that the situation has gotten as it has, nine years after the county had apparently eradicated the disease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among pet owners who spoke with PIX11 News on Tuesday was Sunny Bah, who was walking her four-year-old dog, Sam, on a paved path in the woods in Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn. She was following the posted dog-walking protocols of staying on the path and keeping her dog on a leash in the park thats less than a mile away from one of many newly recorded rabies cases. As Dr. Irina Gelman, the county health commissioner, pointed out at a morning news conference on Tuesday, ensuring that pets dont stray on their own is important to prevent their exposure to the growing health hazard. Were announcing the spread of rabies in Nassau County to be an imminent public health threat, she said, and later explained the move further. Actively declaring imminent danger of health opens up additional funding from the State of New York to address the crisis. Dr. Gelman said that the numbers show the severity of the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nassau County had zero reported cases of rabies from 2016 to the mid-year 2024. Since then, the numbers have ballooned. The county had 25 reported terrestrial cases cases involving land animals in the last 12 months. Four more possible cases are being tested now, according to the health commissioner. Raccoons are the main source, she said, but multiple cases have also been found in feral cats. The cases have been reported in 15 different locations across Nassau, which is the states most populous county outside of New York City. Fran Bushman, a self-described pet lover who has five cats and a dog, responded simply and directly to the news. Im just surprised, she said, while sitting in the shade in Christopher Morley Park. She was responding to information from county officials who said that theyre working to fight the problem by distributing rabies medication in high-risk areas. Specifically, theyre placing medication pellets and packets that are designed to smell and look like foods, raccoons and other animals like in places that animals frequent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nassau County health officials also said on Tuesday that their counterparts in New York City, next door, stopped distributing rabies-fighting bait in high-traffic animal areas. To have stopped that is kind of crazy, said Bushman, the cat-and-dog owner, because it could have prevented an outbreak. Health leaders also said that its vital for pet owners to ensure that their pets are up to date on vaccinations in order to protect them and to prevent the spread of rabies to humans. That need is urgent, Dr. Gelman said, because the high, recorded numbers are for known cases. In other words, she said, Clearly, theres wider-spread rabies activity along Nassau County than the numbers indicate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For its part, the New York City Department of Health issued a statement saying that it has not baited wildlife areas since late April, but that its actively monitoring the movement of wildlife: Because of our strong raccoon rabies surveillance program in NYC, we know that rabies has been circulating in NYC since it first appeared in 1992. Raccoons dont respect boundaries, so were not able to determine how and where rabid raccoons are moving, or being moved by people. NYC has been distributing oral rabies vaccine baits in areas of NYC since 2014, and we recently completed an event this past Spring. We encourage Nassau County to also implement a robust surveillance program, and we would be happy to continue to provide technical assistance for an oral rabies vaccine program. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 'I Voted' stickers at a polling place in Apple Valley. Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer. As the deadline to file for candidacy passed Tuesday afternoon, three Democrats and one Republican sought the mantle of representing the district long served by the late Rep. Melissa Hortman. Gov. Tim Walz called a special election following the death of Hortman and her husband, Mark, last month in what has been termed a political assassination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The primary for House District 34B is August 12, with the special election to follow on September 16. Write-in requests for candidacy will be accepted until September 9. District 34B covers parts of Brooklyn Park, Champlin and Coon Rapids. Hortman first ran for election in 1998 and 2002 but didnt win the former swing district until 2004. By 2024, the district had become strongly Democratic, with Hortman winning last years election by 26 percentage points. Kamala Harris received a similarly wide margin of 27 points. The Republican Party now holds a one-seat advantage in the Minnesota House, leaving little room for error if the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party wishes to return to a 67-67 deadlock and shared control of the House. The three DFL candidates running for the seat are Xp Lee, Christian Eriksen and Erickson Saye. Xp Lee Xp Lee, a health equity strategist for the Minnesota Department of Health, won the DFL endorsement Monday. Lee served on the Brooklyn Park City Council from 2022 to 2024. He said his first priority is health care, including lowering the cost of prescription drugs and protecting abortion rights, which are not currently under threat in Minnesota after the Legislature under Hortmans leadership codified abortion rights in 2023. Lee wants an expanded public health insurance option on the way to universal health care. He also said he hopes to prioritize education and address disparities in educational achievement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a lot of conversation around fully funding our schools, but really its not just about giving them more funds. Its about how we use those funds most effectively, and I want to be able to dive into those conversations to help our parents, our teachers, our administrators, and then, of course, our kids, to be able to succeed, Lee said. Christian Eriksen Christian Eriksen has served on the Brooklyn Park City Council since 2022 and formerly chaired the citys Human Rights Commission. Eriksen didnt win his first City Council election; his resilience in continuing to run until he won reflects his tenacity, he said. On the City Council, he worked to put a development pause in place. Eriksen hopes to expand MinnesotaCare, a health care program for the working poor, and explore a Minnesota single-payer health care program. He also wants to update the local government aid formula, which determines how much money the state distributes to cities. According to Eriksen, the formula disadvantages first- and second-ring suburbs like Brooklyn Park. Erickson Saye Erickson Saye is a Hennepin County prosecutor who worked as the lead DFL organizer in the 3rd congressional district in 2018, which had the highest voter turnout in the country. He also worked in the Walz administration on constituent services and veteran affairs and served as the policy director of Minnesota Voice, a nonprofit focused on voter engagement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From elections to law school to prosecutor, everything has been to serve communities and serve people. As a father and husband, thats something that was instilled in me. As an immigrant, that was something that my mother instilled in me. So that service to community is something that is very important to me, Saye said. Saye said his work as a prosecutor has motivated him to make resources for youth including after-school activities one of his top policy priorities, especially as a way to prevent crime. If elected, he also hopes to improve affordability, housing stability and child care access. Ruth Bittner Ruth Bittner is the sole Republican in the race. She was not available for an interview. According to a news release, Bittner has never held public office in Minnesota; she was formerly a food scientist and currently works as a real estate agent. Her biggest priorities are common sense budgets that bring back fiscal stability to Minnesota; public safety; and educational excellence. In these times of extreme partisanship, I can think of no more important mission than to restore the peoples trust in government, Bittner said in a statement. I want to be a voice in the Legislature that represents all people, and who is willing to reach across the aisle to negotiate for the good of all, even when issues are difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The candidates have acknowledged the legacy that Hortman leaves behind. The former speaker, recognized for her legislative accomplishments, may prove a tough act to follow. She is someone who was a fighter, and the fact that she was taken away from us, our community, is something that is always in the back of your mind something that every conversation, every speech, is just in your heart, Saye said. That will forever be her seat, and we just hope to carry her legacy on as much as possible. Lee said he lives not too far from the Hortmans house. Weve just had a lot of conversations with neighbors and other residents close by remembering her and just really feeling about what we can do to move forward. And part of this is also, of course, to take up her legacy at the Capitol, Lee said. Until the special election, the vacant seat will be one of three left empty in the Minnesota Legislature following the anticipated resignation of Sen. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury, and the death of Sen. Bruce Anderson, R-Buffalo. Walz has yet to call a special election for either Senate seat. A Los Angeles area family of Latino renters suing their landlord over a 2024 eviction claim they were met with a thinly veiled threat that they would be picked up by immigration agents, amid the ongoing, high-profile campaign of raids across the city. Its not fair for him to take advantage of that, former tenant Yicenia Morales told The Los Angeles Times. I was born here. I have a birth certificate. I pay taxes. I was already depressed over the eviction, she added. Now Im hurt, embarrassed and nervous as well. Will he really call ICE on us? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its racist, her attorney, Sarah McCracken, added in an interview with the paper. Not only is it unethical and probably illegal, but its just a really wild thing to say especially since my clients are U.S. citizens. The controversy stems from a June message from attorney Rod Fehlman, whom Morales and her lawyers at the firm Tobener Ravenscroft said they saw in state records was the legal point of contact for landlord Celia Ruiz and her real estate agent David Benavides. Alleged ICE-related threat to renter suing ex-landlord comes as immigration agents have conducted large-scale operations across Los Angeles area (Getty) In the midst of a back-and-forth over the case in June, Fehlman sent an aggressive message referencing recent arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, McCracken said. It is also interesting to note that your clients are likely to be picked up by ICE and deported prior to trial thanks to all the good work the Trump administration has done in regards to immigration in California, Fehlman told the renters legal team in email after being served this summer, according to McCracken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fehlman told The Independent he cannot comment on ongoing litigation, but said the message was taken out of context. Instead of a threat, he said, he was warning Moraless San Francisco-based lawyer about the ongoing pattern of ICE agents arresting immigrants at courthouses and immigration offices. My email mentions nothing about Ms. McCracken's client's citizenship, Fehlman wrote in an email. This is an ongoing problem in Southern California and a sad reality that litigants have been picked randomly at Courthouses. It is unfortunate that this comment has been taken out of context intentionally by Ms. McCracken's firm and used to defame my office. (The real estate agent named in the suit responded to the complaint with a different law firm than Fehlmans, according to the Times, and the renters have been unable to serve the landlord with the complaint yet. Fehlman did not respond to a question regarding which parties he was or had been representing in the eviction dispute.) McCracken told The Independent she was taken aback by her exchanges with Fehlman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case doesnt involve my clients race or ethnicity or immigration status, or at least it didnt until he made that comment, she said. We just thought it was irrelevant and an inappropriate way to try and get an edge in the case. The Independent has contacted Morales for comment. Real estate agent Benavides, when reached by The Independent, hung up. On Tuesday, California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned that discriminating, retaliating against, or attempting to influence tenants based on their immigration status, including by reporting tenants to immigration services, is illegal. California tenants no matter their immigration status have a right to safe housing and to access housing documents in a language they can understand, Bonta said in a statement. I will use the full force of my office to go after those who seek to take advantage of California tenants during an already challenging time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCracken said she has encountered landlords making verbal comments about ICE to tenants in the past. Now, however, she said people seem emboldened to make boundary-pushing spoken and written comments about race and immigration status to renters under the second Trump administration, based on what she has heard from potential clients and legal colleagues. Renters have faced threats over their immigration status predating the second Trump term, too. In 2019, a New York judge fined a landlord $5,000 and ordered the payment of $12,000 in damages to a tenant who was threatened with ICE if they didnt pay rent, thought to be the first such case in the country. Earlier this year, an Illinois judge ruled on a similar case, dating back to 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the Trump administration, with its mass expansion of military-style immigration raids, unscrupulous individuals have also allegedly impersonated ICE to achieve unsavory ends, including a January incident in which a North Carolina man allegedly pretended to be an immigration agent to coerce a woman into having sex. ICE impersonators have also allegedly harassed businesses and intimated motorists. Ramen Kazama closes restaurant in Minneapolis' Como neighborhood originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Ramen Kazama has permanently closed in the Como neighborhood of Minneapolis, but its original location remains open in Lyndale. The counter-service Japanese noodle shop at 1510 Como Ave. SE announced at the end of May that it was taking a summer break. But this week the eatery shared that it will not reopen near the University of Minnesota campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, owner and chef Matthew (nee Yuichiro) Kazama plans to focus on the flagship at 3400 Nicollet Ave., as well as his newest concept, TokiDoki Burger, located a couple doors down. Kazama told Bring Me The News on Wednesday that it didn't make sense anymore to have two Minneapolis locations about five miles apart. Foot traffic and sales had been dwindling at the Como restaurant, especially during the summer, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. That's why it had been seasonally shuttered the past two summers, Kazama said. Kazama and his business partners own both of the Ramen Kazama buildings. He expects to bring in another restaurant at the Como location, whose neighbors include Blue Door Pub and Boludo. Ramen Kazama and TokiDoki Burger owner/chef Matthew Kazama.Brianna Kelly | Bring Me The News Ramen Kazama launched in 2015 on Nicollet Avenue and expanded to Como in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TokiDoki, offering a Japanese spin on American classics at 3406 Nicollet Ave., just celebrated its first anniversary. The restaurant's dry rub and sweet sauce chicken wings are also new to Target Field this season. Japanese soup shop Ramen Kazama has closed in the Como neighborhood but remains open in Lyndale.Ramen Kazama | Facebook Ramen Kazama has proved popular among professional athletes and touring musicians, as well as regular folks. Karl-Anthony Towns paid a visit to the Nicollet location last March, before he was traded by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Japanese punk rock bands Otoboke Beaver and Peelander-Z are big fans, too. Kazama himself is a drummer who co-founded Minneapolis punk duo Birthday Suits. Related: Minneapolis brewery and coffee house to close later this year This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A Rapid City man has been sentenced to 10 years in the South Dakota State Penitentiary after pleading guilty to charges of child abuse and bestiality. Mid-air emergency leads to life-saving landing Brian Johnson, 42, entered guilty pleas in March as part of a resolution intended to protect the young victim from the trauma of testifying in court. Prior to the plea agreement, Johnson faced multiple charges, including sexual contact with a minor, solicitation of a minor, and cruelty to animals, according to a news release from the Pennington County States Attorneys Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senior Deputy States Attorney Jason Thomas told the court this resolution was not an act of leniency, nor was it the result of insufficient evidence, which he said was profound and undeniable. The trauma inflicted upon the victim is severe and lasting. The defendants actions demonstrate a complete disregard for his parental responsibilities and basic human decency, Thomas said in a news release. The offenses occurred during the winter of 2023. At sentencing, Seventh Circuit Judge Robert Gusinsky described Johnson as a continuing threat and called the emotional and psychological damage to the child just unbelievable. Johnson received the maximum sentence for both charges. The sentences are to run concurrently. Child abuse is a Class 4 felony, punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $20,000 fine. Bestiality is a Class 6 felony, carrying a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a $4,000 fine. Advertisement 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. NEW YORK (AP) Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine admitted Wednesday that he violated the conditions of his supervised release from prison by possessing drugs, marking his latest run-in with the law since he completed a federal prison sentence on racketeering and conspiracy charges. The 29-year-old performer, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, told a Manhattan federal judge that his home in Miami was raided on March 12 and that residual cocaine and MDMA the party drug known as Molly or ecstasy were found in his bedroom cabinet. In exchange for the admission, prosecutors agreed to drop two other counts he faced stemming from the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Brooklyn rapper, who shot to fame with the 2017 release of his song Gummo, will be sentenced Sept. 25. He doesnt face any state charges related to the raid, but U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer warned him that the consequences will be severe if he violates any of the conditions of his release before he is sentenced. Federal sentencing guidelines call for between three and nine months in prison for each count, but Hernandez could face up to five years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release, the judge added. The rapper, who was dressed in a black hoodie and who wasn't sporting his trademark colorful hairstyle, declined to comment as he left the courthouse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hernandez pleaded guilty in 2018 to his involvement with a violent New York-based gang, the Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods. He was handed a lenient sentence of two years in prison in 2019 followed by five years of supervised release for his cooperation in the prosecution of other gang members. He was even released from federal prison several months early during the height of COVID-19 pandemic. But last November, Hernandez was found in violation of his probation for failing to show up for drug tests, traveling to Las Vegas from his Florida home without permission and lying to his probation officer. At the time, Engelmayer sentenced him to another 45 days in federal custody, saying the infractions showed a lack of respect for the law. ___ This story was updated to correct that Hernandez admitted that he violated the terms of his prison release, not that he pleaded guilty to doing so. BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) Members of the Raleigh County Sheriffs Office have announced they will be hitting the trails as part of ongoing community outreach efforts. Road closure scheduled in Raleigh County If you have seen Sgt. B.J. Adkins out and about, you probably arent alone. The Community Resource Officer has been building connections across the county to offer help and to break stigmas. Through the departments upcoming Hike with a Deputy series, he said he hopes to show community members that we are, in fact, stronger together. Theres a stigma with law enforcement and addiction, and within the communities, and were trying to break that, Sgt. Adkins told 59News. If we can work together and come together, I can guarantee that its going to make it a better place for our next generation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The series begins at the Clear Fork Rail Trail at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 3, 2025. Sgt. Adkins will hit a new Raleigh County trail every other weekend through the month of August, heading to Beckley Rails-to-Trails at 3:00 p.m. on August 17th, and closing with a 3:00 p.m. trek at Little Beaver State Park on August 31st. Sheriff Frank Priddy and Chief Deputy Frank Shelton said they believe in stepping outside the office to build real community connections. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) People use sayings, euphemisms and adages every day out of sight, out of mind or bite the bullet or a stones throw away. Did you know that saying about the real McCoy is likely inspired by a Michigander? And July 23 was a pretty big day in his life. On July 23, 1872, Elijah McCoy secured his first patent that cemented his status as an influential inventor. DNR says no need to worry after Michigan lake turns red Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was born in 1844 to George and Mildred McCoy, two Black people born into slavery who had fled from Kentucky into Canada. When Elijah was 3 years old, the family moved back to the U.S. and eventually settled in Ypsilanti. McCoy was extremely intelligent and was sent to Scotland when he was 15 to study mechanical engineering. He eventually earned a degree as a master mechanic and engineer. However, because of his skin color, McCoy couldnt find work as an engineer when he returned to the U.S. So he was hired by the Michigan Central Railroad to work in the boiler room for trains. According to the National Inventors Hall of Fame, that is where he made his first big breakthrough. The trains engines required frequent lubrication, and McCoy learned that this involved an inefficient process in which the trains needed to be stopped and started, so he became determined to invent a better method, the NIHOF wrote. Applying his education in mechanical engineering, McCoy developed an automatic engine lubricator that used steam pressure to quickly and efficiently pump oil where it is needed. The first page for Elijah McCoys patent of his automatic engine lubricator. The patent was approved on July 23, 1872. (Public Domain/U.S. Patent Office) The lubricator, known informally as an oil-drip cup was an immediate success and quickly installed on long-distance locomotives and eventually transatlantic ships and factory machines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the NIHOF, because of the relatively simple design, other railroads started creating their own oil-drip cups, but they werent nearly as effective. Many historians say conductors and engineers would ask for the real McCoy to ensure they were getting the best product and not an imitation. Shuttered Michigan ski resort on the cusp of reopening McCoy continued to develop new lubricators and amend them to new equipment and made even more inventions. When he died in 1929, he held 52 patents, the most of any African American inventor at that 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 WOODTV.com. One of the many ways in which Donald Trump has defied the laws of political gravity has been by retaining the support of Americans who normally deplore sexual profligacy, while having a rich track record of such behaviour himself. Shortly before the 2016 election, when the notorious grab em by the pussy tape emerged tellingly, it is all but forgotten now many commentators assumed that this would be the end of Trumps presidential ambitions. After all, his coalition of backers included not just evangelicals and conservative Christians, both of whom would ordinarily be appalled by such misogyny, but also wild devotees of the QAnon conspiracy theory, which holds that Trump is secretly fighting a cabal of Satan-worshipping paedophiles headquartered in a pizza parlour, including Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, as well as Oprah Winfrey, Tom Hanks and the Dalai Lama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is true that on the tape, Trump didnt mention the age of the women that he felt entitled to grab in such a way; but youd have thought that a tribe of fanatics obsessed with the fictional sexual indiscretions of the rich and famous might raise an eyebrow when their hero admitted to sexual indiscretions himself. The revelations made little difference. Trump entered the White House and history was made, reinforcing his belief that he could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody and he wouldnt lose voters. Todays polls make that look pretty hubristic. After almost a decade of living by his own rules, it seems that the Donald is discovering the elastic limit of his followers the hard way. I speak, of course, of his alleged association with Jeffrey Epstein. Rumours had been swirling for months, exacerbated by Elon Musk, who in a moment of pique, suggested last month that the president was named in the FBI files concerning the disgraced financier. Trump has been on the defensive, stating: I dont understand why the Jeffrey Epstein case would be of interest to anybody. Its pretty boring stuff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That represented a crack in the surface of Planet Trump, as the tectonic plates upon which his dominance rested started to pull apart. This week, after the administration suddenly abandoned its promises to reveal details of the investigation into Epstein, the chasm has become wider still. Figures connected to the Trump administration had long suggested that the files included a client list, while many of those involved in the case insisted that it was nothing but a rumour. In the turbulent wake of the government U-turn, as they absorbed the fact that the files, if they existed, would likely never see the light of day, some of Trumps most vocal cheerleaders branded it a cover-up. On Wednesday, Trump hit back, announcing on social media that his own PAST supporters had fallen for the Epstein conspiracy theories hook, line, and sinker. Everyone should move on, he insisted. The case is boring. Not to the American public it isnt. According to a recent poll, 69 per cent of respondents now believe that the federal government is hiding details about Epsteins clients. Trumps personal approval ratings have fallen off a cliff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To the armies of the presidents detractors, the schadenfreude is exquisitely sweet. For the many mainstream Republicans and moderate Trump supporters, however, it is a case of a big, fat I told you so. Although the president has never openly endorsed conspiracy theories, segments of his Maga base live by these poisonous creeds and their idol has never fully disavowed them, to the chagrin of normies in the party. QAnon devotees, for instance, believe in a coming storm, code for Trumps final victory, when his opponents will be tried and even executed live on television. According to some polls, about one in five Republicans now take this stuff seriously. Trumps attitude towards these eccentrics can be best described as flirtatious. On social media, he has posted a picture of himself wearing a Q lapel pin with the slogan the storm is coming, and republished dozens of Q-related posts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of his rallies in Pennsylvania ended with a QAnon song entitled WWG1WGA, or where we go one, we go all. In a press briefing in 2022, when asked whether he was secretly saving the world from this satanic cult of paedophiles and cannibals, Trump responded: I mean, you know, if I can help save the world from problems, Im willing to do it. At the time, the QAnon internet lit up with jubilation. Now, however, Trump may regret giving life to the beast, which may just be turning on him. 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 court-appointed receiver investigating the alleged Ponzi scheme involving First Liberty Building & Loan, and its owner, Edwin Frost IV, has uncovered more than $1 million in political donations that were made with investors money, a new court document shows. Receiver Gregory Hays has been appointed to recover as much as he can of the $140 million that Frost is accused of taking from investors. In his first report to the court, Hays said his team has uncovered almost 1,000 political donations that Frost made using investors money, totaling over $1 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frost and his family promoted First Liberty heavily on conservative media with paid commercials and went to church groups to ask people to invest. Federal investigators said the scheme, which started in 2021, took more than $140 million from investors and used that money to buy things like a luxury watch, rare coins and even a vacation home rental in Maine. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the SEC announced the allegations, anyone who received money from Frost has been asked to give it back to the receiver to help investors recoup their losses. Last week, only Channel 2 Action News was there when Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger turned over $8,400 that he received as political donations from Frost. Raffensperger said his office is also investigating First Liberty. Earlier this week, Alabamas Secretary of State also said his office was investigating First Liberty and was urging any politicians in that state to also give back and donations. On Tuesday, the Georgia Republican Party said it had turned over more than $36,000 to the receiver for donations dating back to 2021, saying the move was their moral duty to do our part to assist those who have been affected by this tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hays has published a website for those First Liberty investors where they can track the progress of the case. Hays has 90 days to finish his investigation and write up his report. He said he wants investors to know hes working hard to find the money. The charges currently brought against Frost and First Liberty are civil, not criminal. Sources confirmed to Channel 2s Richard Elliot that the FBI is also looking into the case. Frost has released a statement saying he takes full responsibility for the charges filed against him. BEIJING (Reuters) -China warned on Wednesday against the risk of power supply disruptions as people struggled to keep cool in record heat baking large swathes of the country, which also spurred warnings to the elderly to guard against heat stroke. Power demand exceeded 1.5 billion kilowatts for the first time last week, energy officials said, the third successive record for China this month, when its first nationwide alert on heat-related health risks also went out. "High-temperature weather will ... have an impact on power generation and supply," weather official Chen Hui told a press conference on Wednesday, adding that it would hit hydropower output and reduce the efficiency of photovoltaic generation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities will send alerts to notify electricity suppliers if measures such as peak shaving and cross-regional dispatching of power are called for, added Chen, an official of the China Meteorological Administration. Over the weekend, China announced that construction had begun on what will be the world's largest hydropower dam in Tibet, at an estimated cost of at least $170 billion, cheering investors but vexing downstream neighbours India and Bangladesh. The project is expected to produce 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, equal to the amount of electricity consumed by Britain last year, as Beijing seeks to meet the country's growing power demand. Since mid-March, the number of days when temperatures hit 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) or more is the highest on record, said Jia Xiaolong, deputy director of the National Climate Centre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities asked the elderly to stay indoors unless necessary, while urging outdoor workers to scale down activity on such "sauna days". Temperatures have hit new highs since mid-March in the central provinces of Henan and Hubei, Shandong in the east, Sichuan in the southwest, and northwestern Shaanxi and Xinjiang, pushing the national average to the second highest on record. During the last two weeks, above 40 degrees C (104 F) heat enveloped 407,000 square kilometres of the country, Jia said. That is more than the land area of Germany or Japan. In the same period, roughly one in 10 national weather observatories tracked temperatures above 40C with one in Xinjiang reaching 48.7C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jia did not rule out the chance of more record-breaking heat, saying August could prove as warm as, or even hotter than, in recent years. (Reporting by Xiuhao Chen and Liz Lee; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Clarence Fernandez and Kim Coghill) The American Red Cross out of Viera is reporting that a safety trailer has been stolen. American Red Cross shelter trailers contain supplies for those in need, including blankets, cots and comfort kits. In a statement, the American Red Cross said, We are currently working with local authorities to recover it. While this is an unfortunate situation, it will not impact our ability to respond to emergencies or support our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A photo of the trailer is in this story. If you have any information on its location, contact local law enforcement. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. American education is in a free fall. Math test scores among nine-year-olds recently saw the largest drop in 50 years, and reading scores are declining as well. Despite the United States ranking fifth in K-12 spending and second in higher education spending among OECD countries, our students are in the middle of the pack in international math and science assessments. Even at elite American colleges, professors report that their students cant read books. In response to this crisis, reform-minded states across the country have responded with bold and innovative policies to completely transform the education system, while many Democrat-run states have accepted decline. Lets start with the bad news. Despite the growing crisis in American education, states like Illinois and California have resisted reform, choosing to dump more money into public schools instead of fixing the structural problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that red states across the country have firmly rejected the failed status quo and are promoting educational excellence through school choice, improved literacy programs, and reforming higher education. By far the biggest impact on student outcomes will result from the successful expansion of school choice, giving families the freedom to leave failing schools and choose a private, classical, alternative public school, or other option that fits their needs. While families have advocated for school choice for decades, 2025 has been a watershed moment. Thanks to leaders like Governors Greg Abbott and Bill Lee, Texas and Tennessee, respectively, are now the latest states breaking the local public-school monopoly. Altogether, 17 states have universal school choice programs, including Governor Jeff Landrys LA GATOR education savings accounts in Louisiana and Governor Kevin Stitts tax-credit-based system in Oklahoma. More than a dozen other states have more limited forms of school choice. But state leaders didnt stop there. Reformers have also enacted thoughtful policies to increase education quality. For example, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley led the Let Teachers Teach initiative that proposed 18 reforms, such as cutting unnecessary trainings and paperwork, granting new authority to remove continually disruptive students from classrooms, and directing students in need to mental health professionals instead of forcing teachers to act as impromptu psychiatrists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with these solutions that allow teachers to spend more time teaching, Louisiana will also soon implement the Grow. Achieve. Thrive accountability framework to measure the performance of public schools using an A-F grading scale. The framework increases standards and transparency, providing administrators, teachers, and parents a clear view of whats working and what isnt. Perhaps the most glaring problem schools must address is literacy, the building block of almost all other learning. From 2017 to 2023, the percentage of American adults ranked at the lowest levels of literacy increased from 19% to 28%. Thankfully, some states recognize the crisis and are rejecting the ineffective whole language approach based on context clues and meaning-making in favor of the tried-and-true science of reading focused on phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension. This past year, Governors Kim Reynolds in Iowa, Henry McMaster in South Carolina, and Glenn Youngkin in Virginia all enacted or expanded science of reading programs to improve literacy. It was South Carolina along with Florida and Mississippi that pioneered the science of reading statewide, with Mississippi especially seeing a dramatic increase in National Assessment of Educational Progress (NEAP) reading scores as a result. Meanwhile, groups like Excel in Education are popularizing the science of reading in red and blue states alike, ensuring students educational outcomes arent determined by arbitrary partisan lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet innovative education reformers arent stopping with K-12. Though politicians have sat on the sidelines for generations as universities were transformed from centers of learning into hotbeds of radical political activism, the tides are finally turning. In March, Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio signed the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act into law, which, among other reforms, requires colleges to make course syllabi public, commit to free speech, promote intellectual diversity, and end mandatory left-wing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. But Ohio is not alone. Texas State Senator Brandon Creightons SB37just sent to the governors deskwould create a new state-led committee to review curricula, reject clearly ideologically charged courses at public universities, and cut funding from schools that continue to use taxpayer dollars to promote far-left ideology in the classroom. Additionally, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Secretary of Education Jacob Oliva spearheaded the Arkansas ACCESS Act, which not only ends mandatory DEI programs, but also eliminates barriers to scholarships, increases access to college-level coursework in every public high school, and requires public universities to adopt standardized testing choice, accepting the Classic Learning Test (CLT) alongside the SAT and ACT for admissions and aid eligibility (full disclosure: I am the founder of CLT). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After experiencing decades of educational decline, state leaders across America are finally shaking things up. Thanks to their recent victories, the education system from kindergarten to graduate school is now at the beginning of a long-awaited renaissance. Jeremy Wayne Tate is the founder and CEO of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), a humanities-focused alternative to the SAT and ACT tests. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A non-profit that turns parking lots into performance spaces is hosting a farewell celebration in Sioux Falls this week. Dancers with Headlights Theater are hard at work rehearsing for their performance this Friday night. Mid-air emergency leads to life-saving landing Weve been playing different games to come up with the choreography as well as just coming up with movement on our own and then teaching the group, dancer Shannon Dancler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Headlights Theater got its start about five years ago. Headlights was founded in the peak of the pandemic in 2020, and we wanted to find a way to make art accessible in a time when it wasnt, we wanted to give artists a job when there wasnt any and we wanted to bring people together in a safe way during a time when people couldnt, founder and director Madison Elliott said. However, Elliott says this summer will be her last hosting performances for Headlights. Just with how my own personal career is expanding. Im going on tour a lot. Its time for me to step into my next chapter, and I know as I do that. Headlights and whatever follows Headlights can step into its own chapter, Elliott said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She says the show this Friday will be the last one for now. Its extremely bittersweet, but I will say its a lot more sweet. I have the most incredible memories with Headlights, Elliott said. And theyre creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for their performance. On Friday, you can expect a high-energy dance experience as well as some more like traditional musical theater singing, Dancler said. What you can expect the most is just a whole lot of love, a whole lot of support and just an incredible environment for anyone and everyone, Elliott said. The performance starts at the Falls Park Farmers Market at 8 p.m.. The parking lot opens at 7. Youll need to register online, because space is limited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on other performers and how to register for the free event on Friday, 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 KELOLAND.com. WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) After more than 15 years of planning and restoration, Triad Cultural Arts officially opened its newly refurbished shotgun house for tours on July 19. The project is just one way the nonprofit works to preserve and promote Black American history and culture. It all started with asking ourselves here in Winston-Salem, particularly a small group of Black women asking themselves, what does Black preservation look like? especially given that our neighbor, Old Salem, has been so intentional about their preservation, said Abrea Armstrong, the Executive Director of Triad Cultural Arts. What that sort of resulted in was this idea that Happy Hill is the Black segment of Old Salem, and so what is within Happy Hill that we can save and we can cherish and we can restore? The answer was to save and restore a 120-year-old shotgun house. Nestled among the trees on Humphrey Street in Winston-Salems oldest Black neighborhood. Armstrong says saving the dilapidated house became a grassroots effort to preserve an important piece of history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the design is actually a Yoruba, as in what is now Nigeria. Yoruba design that was brought to the Americas via Haiti. And so, whats really particularly important about this structure is recognizing that we as Black Americans didnt just come from nowhere. We brought with us a culture. We brought with us a memory, and were here to say that that memory is important and important to tell within the American story. Phase one of restoring the narrow house began with research and fundraising. Armstrong says the nonprofit had to raise more than $300,000. The city of Winston-Salem and other groups pitched in, including the Winston-Salem Foundation. It provided a $75,000 bridge loan for the restoration as well as a $25,000 dollar capital improvement grant to support the work. Armstrong says the money helped ensure that the shotgun house would be restored accurately. So, when you even look at the roof, or even there at the chimneys, all of this is restored to time period. So, we were really intentional about making sure the original bricks, you can see them above the house, and when you go inside, you also see them within the chimneys. Inside, youll see some of the original beadboard. These windows were hand milled to match the style. Theyre probably the actual most expensive thing on this house. And again, it was just to period, making sure it was to period. Shotgun houses were built in the early 20th century, and the architectural style a long, narrow rectangular shape with rooms one behind the other and doors on each end of the house was popular in Black neighborhoods in the south. Armstrong says one of the biggest battles she had to fight was just to call out the fact that Black, ordinary life is worth preserving and saving for future generations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even some Black community members said in development, you know, I wouldnt have picked this project. And it goes to show that the Black, ordinary life hasnt been as cherished and valued as it as it needs to be. So, we call a space like this a vernacular space, an ordinary, regular space. And this idea that you dont have to be Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X. You dont have to be these people in order to make history. Just you existing as a Black person on this land makes you dignified, makes you important. The shotgun house site at 717 Humphrey Street in Winston-Salem will also include a multi-use center and a welcome pavilion for guests. Tours will be offered to the general public on Saturdays throughout the rest of the summer and into the fall. Tours on weekdays will be by appointment only. Admission will be $10 for adults and $3 for children. All the money will go to support local African American heritage sites. If youre interested in getting involved, theres a website where you can sign up to volunteer, donate, or sign up for a tour. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. OXFORD A new partnership announced Tuesday brings together a regional economic development group and three major education and workforce initiatives in an effort to strengthen the economy and improve job readiness across northeast Alabama. ONE East Alabama, a recently established economic development organization representing nine counties, has joined forces with CREATE, EARTH and the Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama to create new opportunities for students and workers throughout the region. The collaboration spans Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Etowah, Randolph, St. Clair, Tallapoosa and Talladega counties. ONE East Alabama Executive Director Kelley Pearce said the effort will prioritize both economic growth and equitable access to workforce resources especially in smaller communities that have historically lacked such support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This collaboration is not just about building a workforce its about building a future, Pearce said. By leveraging the innovative work of CREATE, EARTH and the Challenger Learning Center, we are establishing a comprehensive economic ecosystem that prepares our students for high-paying careers, supports our local industries, and attracts investment into our communities. Career training and industry credentials CREATE, which stands for Choccolocco Research, Education and Technical Experience, is based in Oxford and is directed by Lorie Denton. The program began at Oxford High School but is expanding to serve 16 additional high schools starting this August. It provides hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials in fields such as aviation, cybersecurity, robotics and criminal justice. The program is designed to prepare both high school students and adults to enter the workforce directly or continue their education. Its scalable model supports ONE East Alabamas goal of aligning workforce skills with local industry needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Innovation hub anchors rural training In Sylacauga, the East Alabama Rural Innovation and Training Hub (EARTH) is repurposing the former Avondale Mills complex into a center for workforce development, entrepreneurship and innovation. Led by Margaret Morton, the EARTH campus will focus on industries including agriculture, healthcare, information technology and manufacturing. The initiative includes support services such as transportation, early childcare and job placement assistance for adult learners. With partners such as Innovate Alabama and Shipshape AgWorks, EARTH aims to connect rural workers with training and resources to succeed. STEM-focused learning for students Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Challenger Learning Center, located in Rainbow City, will deliver immersive, space-themed STEM experiences to more than 40,000 students in 12 counties. Executive Director Dr. Farrah Hayes said the center is focused on engaging middle school students, with plans to expand into other grade levels. The centers programming includes space missions, microcredentialing in STEM subjects, and collaborations with higher education institutions. The goal is to supplement traditional education while introducing students to high-tech career paths. A system where everyone can succeed The joint effort seeks to build a workforce pipeline that stays rooted in the region while preparing students and workers to compete globally. Pearce said the goal is to eliminate obstacles that prevent people from accessing education and job training. Our unified mission is to remove barriers and create a system where every student and adult in northeast Alabama has access to training, education, and the tools to succeed, she said. This is about preparing our people for the jobs of today and tomorrow right here at home. NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56) On Wednesday, investigators announced that they had identified skeletal remains found over four months ago along Sulphur Well Road. On March 13, Kentucky State Police troopers discovered skeletal remains in a wooded area along Sulpher Well Road while following up on leads in an active missing persons investigation. RELATED | Car reportedly driven by missing Lancaster man found wrecked in Nicholasville Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Medical Examiners Office has reportedly identified the remains as those of 27-year-old Timothy F. Sterner Jr. from Lancaster. According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), Sterner was last seen on April 9, 2024, when he left his Garrard County home. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Troopers told FOX 56 that his vehicle was found wrecked near Sulphur Well and River Roads that night. The two roads intersect near the John Nickell Boat Ramp on the Kentucky River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to contact KSP Post 7 at (859)623-2404. The investigation into Sterners death 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 FOX 56 News. HONOLULU (KHON2) Early Sunday morning, a 25-year-old woman was killed after a head-on collision on the Westbound H-1 freeway. Woman dies after driving on wrong side of H-1 Freeway Police say the woman, identified as Kylee Chun, was traveling East on the H-1 West when she collided with an 18-wheeler truck. The 77-year-old driver of the truck was treated and brought to the hospital for a shoulder injury. Chun succumbed to her injuries a few hours later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chun, a mother of two, had recently relocated to Hawaii following the California fires, and was in her second year of college. It still feels very surreal, said Beejay Druary, a close family friend of Chun. She had so much more to live for and so much hope for her future and for her boys. Druary, a longtime friend of Chuns mother Jenny, describes Chun as a vibrant free spirit and a hard-working person who valued her two sons above all else. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news She was an amazing mother for her age. She would always have activities for them, or any random things like build a house out of cardboard, said Druary. She was a human being who adored her kids more than anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having raised her own kids alongside Chuns mother, sometimes even under the same roof, Druary watched Chun grow up and into the person that her loved ones would come to know. I always told her youre my soul daughter, said Druary. Following a public interview posted yesterday, Chuns family was met with a significant amount of online speculation and negativity on social media. Her two boys, who really still have a very long road ahead of them, you know, they lost their mom, and one day theyre going to be older and theyre going to start to search for answers and maybe come across things that are said online, said Druary. So we just ask if anybody is reading and commenting that they just pause, and before they post anything harmful, just say a prayer instead and think of the boys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kylee Chun is survived by her mother Jenny, younger sister Kalea, and two sons Mateo (5) and Liko (3). Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Her family has set up a GoFundMe to help her mother cover funeral expenses and for her two sons. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) on Tuesday said House Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) call to abruptly shut down the lower chamber ahead of schedule was a calculated decision to block a vote on the release of files related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and was likely made at the direction of President Donald Trump. Johnson on Tuesday canceled upcoming votes, announcing he would send lawmakers home for a five-week recess on Wednesday evening, while calling the controversy around the Epstein files a Democrat sideshow. In an interview with CNNs AC360, Khanna, one of the Democrats leading the bipartisan effort to release the documents, said Johnson took action because he knew their resolution had the votes to pass and he didnt want to embarrass the members of his own caucus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khanna added that their resolution has secured the approval of several GOP members, including Thomas Massie (Ky.), Marjorie Taylor Greene (Ga.), Nancy Mace (S.C.) and Tim Burchett (Tenn.). I dont think theyve ever in my entire nine years in Congress, sponsored any legislation that Ive introduced, Khanna said. So this is something that he knows his base wants. It would overwhelmingly pass, and so hes literally closing Congress because he doesnt want to vote on our bill, or any bill or any amendment related to the release of the Epstein files, Khanna told CNNs John Berman of Johnson. Asked if he believed Trump pushed Johnson to call for an early recess, Khanna said the president was most likely involved in the decision, citing Johnsons reluctance to put up a nonbinding resolution calling on the White House to release the files up for a vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president simply does not want [Johnson] to have any vote on any bill or any amendment regarding Epstein, Khanna said. But this issue is not going away. Meanwhile, the House Oversight Committee agreed in a voice vote to ask Epstein collaborator Ghislaine Maxwell to provide a deposition. Separately, the Justice Department also wants to speak to Maxwell. The presidents relationship to Epstein is getting fresh scrutiny after CNN on Tuesday released images of him attending Trumps wedding to Marla Maples in 1993, as well as video of the two men attending a Victorias Secret event in 1999. When CNN approached Trump for comment on the unearthed wedding photos, Trump replied: Youve got to be kidding me, before blasting the network as fake news and ending the call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The networks reporting follows a Wall Street Journal report last week stating that the newspaper reviewed a bawdy birthday message Trump wrote to Epstein in 2003 as part of a surprise put together by Maxwell. Trump blasted the report as fake and sued the paper and its owner, Rupert Murdoch, over its contents. Related... Jul. 23The Laguna Fire has burned more than 16,000 acres in the Santa Fe National Forest, and U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez wants answers about the Forest Service's fire management decisions. "The fire is currently destroying thousands of acres of the Santa Fe National Forest and has killed and maimed the livestock of local ranchers in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico," Leger Fernandez wrote in a letter to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz on Monday. The 3rd Congressional District congresswoman questioned if staff cuts played a role in the fire's management and said northern New Mexico has lost trust in the agency's wildfire decision-making after the 2022 Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Laguna Fire began on June 25 after a lightning strike. Because it was a low-intensity fire, initially the Forest Service built a 13,000-acre perimeter around the fire, meant to contain the fire and let it burn fuel. The Laguna Fire has never lacked sufficient staffing, according to Santa Fe National Forest spokeswoman Claudia Brookshire. "What we know from decades of fire management is that if we fail to take advantage of opportunities to reduce fuels when we can, it only compounds future risk, resulting in larger, more destructive wildfires down the road," Brookshire said in a statement. Burning fuel in a low-intensity fire is meant to protect the long-term health of the watershed by preventing future extreme fires, and burning under conditions that won't lead to long-term negative outcomes such as flooding. That strategy appeared to be working, as on July 10 fire managers had achieved most of their fuel reduction goals, stopped backburns and contained the fire at just over 11,000 acres, according to the agency. On July 11, embers jumped over containment lines, igniting a spot fire near Laguna Peak. Then a thunderstorm brought in winds, making the fire on Laguna Peak more extreme. It rapidly grew by 3,000 acres. So, the Forest Service shifted strategies to contain the wildfire with full suppression. On Tuesday, the fire was 55% contained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The blaze killed and maimed livestock in its path, devastating the livelihoods of local ranchers who have grazed cattle on French Mesa and other adjacent forest lands for over a century," wrote Leger Fernandez, D-New Mexico. Even before the strategy change, Robert Vigil was upset by the Forest Service's decisions after at least 10 of his cattle were killed and more maimed by the fire. "Our herd's completely destroyed. Our way of life, our heritage, is completely destroyed," Vigil said. On July 2, he attended a community meeting where people with permits to graze cattle on national forest land were told the Forest Service planned to do a backburn, a common fire management strategy, east of Forest Road 8. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next week, there was a backburn west of Forest Road 8, trapping Vigil's cattle between a fire and a fence they couldn't escape. Vigil said he was given no notice there would be a fire west of Forest Road 8. "They admitted to giving out the wrong information, and at no time did they tell us to move our cattle, that they were going to burn west of Forest Road 8," Vigil said. According to Brookshire, all grazing permittees were given an overall perimeter map ahead of the backburns, which included burns east and west of Forest Road 8. Permittees were also given a map showing fire operations for a specific day with the backburn east of Forest Road 8, she said. "Unfortunately, that map they're referring to was an operations map, meant to show where they were occurring that day, so they could make plans that day," Brookshire said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brookshire said the Forest Service is in daily contact with grazing permittees and has also communicated with land grants and tribes in the area. Permittees who lost livestock due to the fire have been asked to submit a claim for financial compensation. The agency has also been helping relocate cattle, finding hay supply options and veterinary services, she said. Schultz intends to respond to Leger Fernandez's letter, Brookshire said. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper outlines the damages and relief money needed after Hurricane Helene at a press conference on Oct. 23, 2024 in Raleigh. (Photo: Galen Bacharier) Former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is reportedly set to formally launch a campaign for the states open U.S. Senate seat. Cooper is preparing to launch his Senate campaign next week, Axios reported Wednesday, citing multiple sources. Punchbowl News also reported Coopers plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two-term governor who left office in January would immediately become the favorite for the Democratic nomination. He would seek to flip a seat currently held by Republican U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, who announced last month he would not seek re-election. Morgan Jackson, a longtime political advisor to Cooper, would not confirm the reports but said the former governor would be making his intentions known in the coming days. Cooper is set to speak to North Carolina Democrats at the partys annual fundraising dinner this weekend. Former U.S. Rep. Wiley Nickel, a Democrat, has already announced a campaign for the seat. Across the aisle, the Republican field remains unclear. Lara Trump, the presidents daughter-in-law, is reportedly Republicans top preference to run for the seat. In a radio interview Wednesday morning, Trump said she was a big, fat maybe on whether she would enter the race, and said she was still discussing it with her husband. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other potential Republican candidates, including several members of North Carolinas U.S. House delegation, are awaiting Trumps decision. Cooper, prior to his time as governor, served as attorney general and a state senator. The Cook Political Report has ranked the open North Carolina seat as a toss-up in 2026. New U.S. Census Bureau estimates show while New Hampshires population grew by about 2.2% (30,300 people) from 2020 to 2024, the growth was not evenly distributed, with Carroll County outpacing the rest of the Granite State. The Lakes Region and White Mountains experienced some of the fastest population increases, likely driven by retirees and remote workers moving to the region, according to Jessica Williams with the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, who reviewed the latest batch of U.S. Census Bureau population data. Towns like Brookfield, Tuftonboro and Moultonborough are growing at more than twice the statewide rate, federal data shows, while some of New Hampshires larger communities like Durham and Berlin lost residents and others like Keene and Derry saw slight declines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Population totals in the states two largest cities, Manchester and Nashua, remained stagnant over the same time frame, growing just 0.8% and 0.7%, respectively. From 2020 to 2024, 28 communities experienced population declines, while 85 grew more slowly than the state overall and 119 had similar or faster growth rates. Twelve communities largely low-population townships near the northernmost tip of the state experienced no estimated population change. Ten of 19 communities in Carroll County, including portions of both the Lakes Region and White Mountains, experienced population growth rates more than double that of the statewide rate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those communities were: Brookfield (gained 67 residents; 8.9%), Tuftonboro (164 gained; 6.6%), Moultonborough (306 gained; 6.2%), Effingham (98 gained; 5.8%), Wakefield (297 gained; 5.7%), Madison (146 gained; 5.7%), Eaton (22 gained; 5.4%), Ossipee (228 gained; 5.2%), Sandwich (71 gained; 4.8%) and Conway (451 gained; 4.6%). Carroll County remained the third-smallest county in terms of population size in 2024, but experienced the fastest population growth among New Hampshires 10 counties over a 30-year period from 1990 to 2020. The largest population gain in New Hampshire overall was reported in Merrimack in Hillsborough County, which gained 2,532 residents, or 9.4%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other communities adding more than 1,000 residents included Lebanon (1,081 gained; 7.6%), Salem (1,385 gained; 4.6%), Dover (1,126 gained; 3.4%), and Rochester (1,077 gained; 3.3%). Williams reports growth in other amenity-rich communities like Thornton (gained 155; 5.7%), Sugar Hill (gained 34; 5.2%) and Franconia (gained 55; 5.1%) could be the result of retirees and working-age families moving into secondary homes, spurred in part by increased opportunities for remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. A shot of cards on a table at West Alabama Womens Center in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. Reproductive rights groups have resumed helping Alabamians get out-of-state abortions after a federal judge ruled that the state's threats to prosecute such aid were unconstitutional. (Vasha Hunt for Alabama Reflector) Reproductive rights groups have resumed helping Alabamians seeking out-of-state abortions after a ruling earlier this year from a federal judge. U.S. District Judge Myron H. Thompson in April ruled that Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshalls threats to prosecute those who provide out-of-state abortion assistance violated both the First Amendment and the right to travel. The decision has not been appealed. Marshalls office did not return a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Literally within the hour of us finding out that the lawsuit was decided and that we could resume opening, we had already provided funding assistance for our first client that we knew was in the works, because even while we were closed, people were still traveling to receive care. They just werent having as much assistance, said Kelsea McLain, executive director of the Yellowhammer Fund, an organization in Alabama providing abortion funding and support. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Moments into the interview Tuesday, the call was briefly interrupted. It was someone calling for assistance, McLain said. While the decision has brought a sense of relief to some, the landscape of abortion access remains complex, marked by financial hurdles and logistical challenges, such as affording airfare, lodging, the procedure itself while taking time off work, and a state attempting to promote pro-birth policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Yellowhammer Fund was one of the plaintiffs who sued Marshall following the prosecution threat, made on a right-wing radio show in 2022. Marshalls office later defended his power to do so in a court filing in August 2023, saying that a conspiracy formed in Alabama and performed in another state is a criminal act in Alabama. Thompson disagreed. At its core, this case is simply about whether a state may prevent people within its borders from going to another state, and from assisting others in going to another state, to engage in lawful conduct there, the judge wrote in his decision. The court now answers no, a state cannot. Despite the legal victory, the volume of requests for out-of-state abortion assistance has not returned to pre-Dobbs levels, McLain said. As of a recent count, the organization has supported 215 people since April 1, pledging out approximately $78,000 for clinic costs, hotels, flights and direct cash assistance for expenses like gas and child care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats crazy is we used to get 10 to 15 calls a day. We really were expecting for more and surprised that it hasnt been higher, she said. The cost of out-of-state abortion care varies significantly depending on the gestational stage and travel distance. For later-term abortions (late second or early third trimester), which require travel to one of the few clinics offering such care in the country, costs can range from $10,000 to $15,000 for the procedure alone, with an additional $2,000 for travel and lodging in cities like Washington D.C. Earlier trimester care, often sought in nearby states like Georgia or North Carolina, can cost between $100 to $400 for the procedure, with average pledges from the Yellowhammer Fund around $150-$200 to cover travel and associated expenses. The journey itself is fraught with stress and logistical challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its significant. And I think thats by design, McLain said, suggesting that the difficulties are intentionally built into the system to deter people. McLain said the emotional toll is significant, with many individuals traveling alone and grappling with feelings of loneliness and distress. Clients also face challenges ranging from securing time off work and finding child care to navigating airports and dealing with unexpected travel delays, as she has had people miss appointments and had to travel to a different state for timely care. Following the states near-total abortion ban came into effect following the Dobbs decision, Alabama has actively pursued policies aimed at promoting childbirth within the state. Recent legislative efforts have included increasing the number of baby boxes at fire stations, designed for safe surrender of newborns, and providing tax cuts for baby diapers and maternal supplies. Critics argue these measures do not address the systemic issues that lead individuals to seek abortion care. Rep. Donna Givens, R-Loxley, who sponsored the baby box bill, and Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, who sponsored the tax cut for maternity supplies, did not return requests for comment. If you look at the WeCount surveys that keep coming out and show whats happening with the telemed from shield laws states, the amount of medication that is being taken is fairly close to what we were seeing in the amount of abortions that were happening here, pre-Dobbs, said Robin Marty, executive director at WAWC, formerly known as the West Alabama Womens Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McLain pointed to the data on childbirth in Alabama, saying that the state is increasingly dangerous to birth in. She also pointed out the states challenges addressing drug use during pregnancy, which has led to the state leading nation in criminalizing pregnant people after Dobbs. If someone is an addict and they are pregnant, the safest option for them is seeking termination to avoid jail time, because if theres any detected drugs in your system at any of your prenatal visits or during delivery, you will be thrown in prison for child endangerment, she said. Despite the challenges, McLain said the Yellowhammer Fund remains committed to its mission and plans to increase the budget for abortion aid to $350,000 towards Alabama and neighboring southeastern states, saying that for most people, abortion care is often not a choice. They arent choosing to have an abortion. Theyre making a choice to survive, because they know how hard a child makes it to survive. They are someone who wants to have a child. They are someone who wants to grow their family, but they know they functionally cant, she said. A weeks-long strike of Republic Services workers in Thurston County has come to an end. A representative for Teamsters Local 252 tells KIRO 7 News that they have reached an agreement with the company, and the contract has been ratified. The details of the agreement have not been disclosed, but the Local 252 representative told KIRO 7 Tuesday that it was a step in the right direction from offers employees called an insult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agreement means that trash pickup will now resume for customers. Employees had been pushing for wages that are in line with other trash companies, and better healthcare and retirement benefits. Republic Services said the offer was fair and maintains our competitiveness in the market in a statement to KIRO 7. I understand where the union is going with it, said Rick Sannes, a Republic Services customer, They deserve to have a fair, living wage and collective bargaining is part of the drill to get that. I support that but it is inconvenient for people. The strike began in Lacey last week, with picket lines expanding into Snohomish and King Counties. Workers either joined in solidarity or expressed their right not to cross a picket line, disrupting trash collection in those larger communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In many cities, like Bellevue, Renton, and Lake Forest Park, municipal contracts with Republic Services stipulates that account credits must be given for collection that did not occur during the disruption. People living outside of those areas can file a complaint with the Washington Utility and Transportation Commission to try and get credits to their account: Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie is fundraising off his efforts to compel the Justice Department to release files on the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. In a recent email to supporters, first reported by MeidasTouch News , the Republican wrote that the most powerful people on earth have been working overtime to keep the Epstein files hidden for many years. When I force Congress to go on record on the Epstein files, I have no doubt that they'll bring the world down on my head, Massie added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna are leading a bipartisan effort to force Congress to vote on a measure compelling the Justice Department to release the remaining Epstein files. The petition comes after the Justice Department and FBI released a joint memo indicating there will be no further disclosure on the investigation into Epstein, who was facing federal sex trafficking charges when he died. Thomas Massie fundraising off attempt to have Epstein files released (Getty Images) In the same memo, the agencies confirmed Epstein died by suicide in a New York City jail cell in August 2019 following years of conspiracy theories around his death. The memo also claimed Epstein did not keep a client list, even after Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested the list was on her desk earlier this year. The administration is facing mounting backlash from both sides of the aisle over the memo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has defended Bondi and directed her to seek the release of grand jury testimony related to Epstein last week. The Justice Department has since filed a request with a federal judge to unseal that testimony. Its unclear when it will actually be unsealed, however. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced the Houses annual summer break will start on Wednesday as Massie and Khanna continued their efforts. Johnson says he doesnt understand Massies motivation for bringing the petition. Thomas Massie could have brought his discharge petition anytime over the last four years of the Biden administration, Johnson said. He could have done that at any time, and now hes clamoring as if theres some sort of timeline on it. I try to follow Ronald Reagans 11th Commandment: never speak evil of another Republican," he added. "My gosh, its hard to do sometimes around here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House could be forced into a vote after the summer break ends in September. Massie and Khanna need 218 signatures to force the vote in the fall. Massie is optimistic theyll get them, NBC News reports. "Over the August recess, I think momentum will build for transparency. I don't think this is going to go away," Massie said. "And I think, when we return in September, we'll get Phase 2 of the Epstein files because we'll getevery Democrat and at least a dozen Republicans who want transparency and justice." Massie has made an apparent enemy of Trump in recent months. Trump called Massie a Third Rate Congressman and a LOSER after he voted against the presidents sweeping tax and spending bill, also known as the Big, Beautiful Bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massie was one of only two Republicans to vote against the legislation, which passed the House along party lines and passed the Senate with a tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance. Trump also raged against Massie when he criticized his decision to bomb nuclear sites in Iran last month. Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky is not MAGA, even though he likes to say he is, Trump wrote on Truth Social. The good news is that we will have a wonderful American Patriot running against him in the Republican Primary, and Ill be out in Kentucky campaigning really hard. MAGA is not about lazy, grandstanding, nonproductive politicians, of which Thomas Massie is definitely one, he added. The Independent has contacted Massie for comment. Republican lawmakers are cracking down on Veterans Affairs employee bonuses, even as Democrats in Congress say administration moves in recent months are hurting critical recruiting and retention work. The conflict is the latest chapter in the ongoing story of VAs federal workforce, and what it will look like in coming years. After President Joe Bidens administration heavily emphasized building up the departments employee base in response to higher demands for health care and benefits, President Donald Trumps White House has reversed that course, pushing for significant cuts and less aggressive recruiting efforts. On Monday, the House finalized legislation to prohibit payments from the departments Critical Skill Incentive programs from being awarded to Senior Executive Service employees, in reaction to improper cash awards handed out during the last presidential administration. The measure is expected to be signed into law by President Donald Trump in coming days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VAs #2 leader downplays political strife between Congress, department The bill comes in response to still ongoing criticism of Biden-era appointees improperly using the cash awards for senior officials rather than hard-to-fill specialists. Bill sponsor Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas and chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, called the past awards an abuse of taxpayer dollars and said the move is needed to ensure integrity and transparency in the departments bonus programming. In a related move, House Veterans Affairs Committee leaders on Tuesday held a hearing reviewing the departments recruitment, relocation and retention incentive payment practices, better known as 3R bonuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VA leaders awarded about $1.2 billion in those incentives to roughly 134,000 employees from the start of fiscal 2020 to the end of fiscal 2023, according to the VA Inspector Generals office. Officials estimated that about $341 million in bonuses were not properly documented or justified, and about $5 million in awards were improperly handed out to ineligible individuals. Republican lawmakers said that program is in need of significant reforms too. When someone receives a relocation incentive and never actually relocates, that is wrong and a clear waste of taxpayer dollars, said Rep. Jennifer Kiggans, R-Va., chairwoman of the House Veterans Affairs Committees panel on oversight. These are taxpayer dollars set aside for veterans, and for far too long they have been carelessly handled. Trump administration supporters praised recent efforts to cut waste and inefficiency within the department. Tracey Therit, VAs chief human capital officer, said the bonus programs are a critical tool in filling in-demand specialties, but also promised continued reforms within the human resources and financial oversight offices to improve bonus decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are confident that the steps we have already taken and continue to take will strengthen our incentive program governance and oversight, leading to more effective outcomes and better service to the nations veterans, she said. But Democratic lawmakers said the work is less focused on efficiency and more focused on shedding government workers through active cuts and passive messaging. Rep. Delia Ramirez, D-Ill., noted that VA leaders awarded recruiting incentives more than 20,000 times in 2024. Halfway through this year, that total is about 7,000. Recruitment incentives were awarded more than 6,000 times in 2024 but have been used about 1,000 times this year. Its not that VA employees are less meritorious than they were [last year], Ramirez noted. No matter what VA employees do, they will never receive 3R awards, because the Trump Administration wants them to leave. They want every employee to be pushed out so they can decimate VAs workforce and destroy it in order to justify privatizing the VA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VA officials expect to reduce the departments workforce by roughly 30,000 employees this fiscal year, a move that has drawn the ire of union leaders and administration critics. Union officials testified at the hearing that they are already seeing shortfalls in key areas like nursing and appointment scheduling, areas that will hurt veterans benefits. VA leaders have disputed those assertions in recent months, insisting that cuts to the department bureaucracy can be done without impacting customer service. They said they are continuing to recruit for critical health care and benefits processing posts, and have dismissed concerns from critics regarding perceived emerging gaps in the workforce. Senate leaders this week are expected to advance their plans for a $435 billion VA budget next fiscal year. The appropriations bill represents an $83 billion boost from Congress approved spending plan for VA in fiscal 2025, even with the planned staffing reductions. Outgoing Republican Senator Thom Tillis just wants President Trump to release the damn files in regard to Jeffrey Epstein, the deceased pedophile and Trumps former friend. The promise to release the files during the campaign was either overplayed and we got a nothingburger if the files get released, or its something really disturbing and thats actually an even more compelling reason to release it, Tillis said at an Axios event on Wednesday. Tillis, a North Carolinian who has said he will resign at the end of his third term next year, is one of the few Republicans in the Senate who has been consistent on this, as the rest of the party capitulates to Trump and attempts to distract the public by voting against further inquiries into the files release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tillis also noted that he doesnt see this issue just going away during Congresss summer recess, as House Speaker Mike Johnson hopes it will. I think the files should be released, let the light of day, let the sun shine through, and thats the best way to get past it, Tillis said. Otherwise, if anybody thinks that this is going to go away because the House left a day early or something, its going to be like those zombies in The Walking Dead: Every time you think youve killed it, another one is just going to come running out of the closet after you. Tillis recently made waves for his spirited opposition to Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which the senator referred to as a betrayal of Republican promises. WASHINGTON The House Oversight Committee subpoenaed Ghislaine Maxwell to appear for a deposition even as some Republican lawmakers acknowledge they may not be able to trust her testimony. The panel issued the subpoena requesting a meeting with Maxwell at the Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee on Aug. 11, committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., announced on Wednesday afternoon. The subpoena comes just one day after the committee voted in favor of the subpoena despite calls from President Donald Trump to drop the story. The facts and circumstances surrounding both your and Mr. Epsteins cases have received immense public interest and scrutiny, Comer wrote in his letter to Maxwell. While the Justice Department undertakes efforts to uncover and publicly disclose additional information related to your and Mr. Epsteins cases, it is imperative that Congress conduct oversight of the federal governments enforcement of sex trafficking laws generally and specifically its handling of the investigation and prosecution of you and Mr. Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell has become a person of interest after being found guilty of co-conspiring with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to exploit minor girls in 2021. But even with the subpoena, some Republicans have admitted they may not believe everything she says. She is a liar, and shes a dirtbag, Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., who introduced the motion to subpoena Maxwell, told reporters on Wednesday. The one thing we got holding over her head is, if we find out she lies, she goes back to her original sentence, and thats looking at lifetime. And if shes looking at maybe parlaying this into reducing her sentence, then we could have some leverage there. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., speaks during a television news interview at the Capitol in Washington, Friday, June 14, 2024. | J. Scott Applewhite The subpoena is the latest escalation in the House to reveal information about Epsteins operations, which has subsequently left the House in gridlock for days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House GOP leadership drafted a resolution last week calling for the release of the investigative materials as a way to provide Republican lawmakers with some political cover as Democrats hammer them on the subject. But that resolution is nonbinding and largely symbolic, prompting criticism from some rank-and-file members. That anger only began to grow when House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said there would not be a vote on any Epstein-related measure this week, instead saying the Trump administration needs to be given time to process credible materials for publication. Johnson told reporters on Wednesday he supports the Oversight Committees motion to seek a subpoena, but echoed similar concerns about Maxwells credibility. I will note the obvious concern, the caveat that Chairman Comer and I and everyone has: Could she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? Johnson said. I mean, this is a person whos been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts and acts against innocent young people. Comer said the Justice Department is cooperating with the subpoena request. COALTON, W.Va. (WBOY) In your average day-to-day life, its pretty rare to see an owl in the wild, especially during the day, but one logger in West Virginia didnt just get to see one, he had the chance to save it. Dakota Petrice works with 3D Logging in Coalton and told 12 News that he was out in the woods working on May 1 when he saw something unusual on the ground. When he went to check it out, it was a baby barred owl. We looked there on the ground, and we seen a ball of fur, and we didnt know what it was, so we picked it up and it was the owl, Petrice said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Petrice said he immediately called Randolph County 911 for assistance with rescuing the bird, who then got him in contact with local raptor specialist, Jo Santiago. The barred owl rests in the grass before flying off into the trees (WBOY Photo) I got a hold of her, and she called me. Within a half-hour, 45 minutes, we met up and I showed her the bird, and she was just astonished. She said that you dont find these birds very often. She said its a once-in-a-lifetime find pretty much. She said theres not very many people who get to hold it, and I was just fortunate enough to get to hold the bird, Petrice said. We did the exchange of this barred owl chick at Dairy Queen, an unlikely place, but it worked, Santiago said. Santiago then helped relocate the chick to The Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia (ACCA) in Morgantown, where it was under Dr. Jesse Fallons care until it was rehabilitated back to strength. It was then transported back to Randolph County to be released into the wild on Tuesday afternoon. The bird was only a few days old when it arrived at the ACCA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WVU hosts K-12 educators for weeklong personal finance conference Jo Santiago prepares to release the barred owl back into the wild (WBOY Photo) Thats always the goal, is to release the birds that we find, Santiago said. Dakota Petrice thanks Jo Santiago for her assistance with helping rescue the owl (WBOY Photo) Barred owls are famous for their distinctive hoot sound. West Virginia is home to eight different species of owls, with Barred owls being some of the most common types in the eastern 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 WBOY.com. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) Residents of one Vallejo neighborhood were being told to shelter in place Wednesday afternoon due to police activity in the 400 block of Illinois Street. According to the Alert Solano system, anyone south of Nebraska, west of Broadway, north of Tennessee and east of Highway 29 should go inside and stay there. As of 7 p.m., the shelter-in-place has been lifted for residents living in the aforementioned areas, according to the countys alert system. However, authorities have not announced an arrest in connection to the police activity. Residents evacuated in San Jose house fire, firefighter injured Photo: Alert Solano An earlier alert indicated there was an active shooter. However, another later alert clarified that there was no active shooter. The shelter-in-place order remains in effect, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SF tech CEO apologizes after AI bot wipes companys code base and lied about it The incident began around 9:47 a.m., according to police. A SWAT team has been deployed to the scene, police said. Anyone outside of the perimeter was advised to stay out of the area. Vallejo city employees out in the field are also advised to avoid the area. 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 KRON4. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) When crimes occur against Mississippians, many victims and their families are unfamiliar with the rights available to them. FBI crime data indicates that even though crime rates may be high in some regions, it is low overall compared to most states. According to 2023 data cited by USAFacts, Mississippi has the eighth lowest violent crime rate nationally at 203 violent crimes per 100,000 people. About seven in 10 violent crimes statewide were aggravated assaults, 10.6% were robberies, 16.1% were rapes and 3.4% were murders. For the victims of these crimes, many may be unaware of resources that exist to support them. The Mississippi Constitution authorizes the Mississippi Legislature to enact laws to support victims. Among other things, the body established the Crime Victims Compensation Fund and the Victims of Domestic Violence Fund. The Mississippi Constitution also guarantees that if victims are subpoenaed to testify or participate in a criminal proceeding, they cannot be retaliated against for doing so or missing work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state statutorily grants certain rights to victims. For instance, they have a right to be present at nearly all criminal proceedings. The victim is also entitled to designate a representative on their behalf. For victims of sexual assault, Mississippi law entitles victims to be informed about the DNA evidence collected and the status of the investigation. A sexual assault evidence kit or any other crime scene evidence from an unsolved sexual assault must be kept for 20 years after its initial collection or until the victim is 40 years old, if the victim was under 18 years old at the time of the offense. There are some things victims cannot do. Though prosecutors must consult with victims before a criminal trial, the victim does not have a right to direct the objectives of prosecution. Additionally, the absence of the victim or their representative from a criminal proceeding does not stop it from occurring. For families in need of resources, it may be helpful for Mississippians to know that services exist on the federal, state, county and local levels. Within district attorneys offices throughout the state, there are victim assistance coordinators. The same position exists at the states largest police and sheriffs departments. Resources also exist across the various state agencies and even the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information on these resources, visit the Mississippi Department of Corrections Division of Victims Services. 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. A longtime elementary school administrator for Frederick County Public Schools is running for a seat on the school board in 2026. David Migdal, who spent 21 years as an assistant principal in FCPS, said his inside perspective of the school district would help inform him as a member of the Frederick County Board of Education. The primary for the school board race in 2026 is in June. Migdal began his career teaching in Montgomery County Public Schools and has worked 30 years in education. In FCPS, he worked at schools such as Carroll Manor, Whittier and Sugarloaf elementary schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said people tried to tell him that he would never be an assistant principal for so long, and that one day, he would be a principal. I learned a long time ago, after my first three years of being an [assistant principal], that I didnt want to be a principal, Migdal said. He retired on June 30. Migdal has one child in FCPS and two who graduated from the school district. Migdal said in an interview that his experiences as a teacher, administrator and FCPS parent helped him see how the school district could improve for students. Especially that relationship between the parents, the staff and the students and how, if you dont work on that, it can be a big negative and the experience is not good for anybody, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migdal added that he would focus on increasing FCPS state assessment scores, particularly with students who are multilingual learners or in special education programs. He explains more of his views on his candidate Facebook page, facebook.com/david.migdal.for.fcps.boe. The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) is an annual state standardized test that students take in third grade through eighth grade and again in 10th grade. Students are tested in English language arts, math and science. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, 59% of third grade students in FCPS were considered proficient in English language arts in 2024. A students score on the MCAP is measured on a scale of 1 to 4. A score of 3 or 4 is considered proficient and at or above grade level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For third grade multilingual students in FCPS, 27% were considered proficient, and 23% of third grade students living with disabilities were considered proficient. Migdal said early intervention in elementary school is necessary for students who have trouble in English. Thats really been the toughest thing for me as an administrator is seeing that there are so many kids, and not just the schools Ive been at, but seeing scores throughout the county missing a whole population of kids, he said. Migdal said special education educators are overworked with large caseloads. He said when he began at Carroll Manor Elementary as the assistant principal, he led one of the FCPS special education programs there. The program, which supports students who have communication needs, was called Challenges at the time. It is now called Expressions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migdal said meetings with central office staff members and parents for students and their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), which outline specific services for students living with disabilities, is a decisive battle, and it should never be like that. He said he has been both on the parent side and administrator side of IEP meetings, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for students living with disabilities. Migdal added that he does not like the way that the current school board members treat each other. Even though you dont agree with them 100% or anything, you have to work with them, he said. The look right now is that its one against the other, or three against four, and thats not how it should be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migdal said that, despite being a union member for 30 years, he does not want the support of the FCPS staff member unions or the political action committee created to oppose them. The candidates that the Maryland State Education Association (MSEA), the state teachers union, endorses are known as the Apple Ballot. All three labor unions in FCPS are part of MSEA. A couple in Point of Rocks recently created a political action committee to oppose teachers-union-backed candidates and called it the Orange Ballot. I wanted to run for the students, and its cliche and everything ... I dont want the backing of either one, Migdal said of the Apple and Orange ballots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the 2026 election, four seats are on the ballot. Casey Day, Jess Douglass, Heather Fletcher and Chad King Wilson Sr. have filed as school board candidates. Current school board members Karen Yoho and Nancy Allen have said they are not running again. Board President Rae Gallagher and Vice President Dean Rose have said they are unsure if they will run again. The deadline to file to run is 9 p.m. on Feb. 24, 2026. The primary election is on June 30, 2026, and the general election is on Nov. 3, 2026. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A Peoria area-based not-for-profit said a fire engine, donated by the city of Peoria, responded to its first call in Ukraine, a few months after being shipped overseas. U.S. Ambulances for Ukraine, a small U.S.-led group that facilitates the donation of ambulances, fire trucks and SUVs to war-torn Ukraine, announced on an X post that crews in the engine donated by the city of Peoria responded to its first call. The engine was used to respond to a fire in Odesa, Ukraine, which borders the Black Sea in the southern part of the country and is about 60 miles East of the Moldova border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thank you to the Peoria Fire Department and everyone that made this happen, the post said. Peoria Fire Department Chief Shawn Sollberger said the city is just excited to be able to see old equipment be able to help a community in need. The City of Peoria Fire Department was excited to see a decommissioned apparatus put to good use and helping a community in need responding to the first of many emergency calls, he said. The 20-year-old engine had long been retired from front-line service prior to being donated and was just being used as a training apparatus before being sent to Ukraine in late April, Sollberger said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a video on the post, a fire apparatus can be seen with lights flashing several feet away from some grass, trees and other things that appear to have been burned. The group began when an OSF Healthcare employees 7-year-old daughter heard about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and asked, How can we help? according to their website. Her dad sprang into action. Three years later, US Ambulances for Ukraine has delivered 90 ambulances, fire engines and SUVs to the people of Ukraine, the website 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 CIProud.com. SPRINGFIELD TWP., Ohio (WKBN) Springfield Townships retired K-9 officer has passed away. K-9 Havoc was born in 2016 and joined the police force in December 2019. Havoc and his handler, Officer Glenn Corey, had specialized in drug enforcement and suspect apprehension. He retired in August 2024. Kristen Hephner 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. Reward offered for info leading to arrest of suspect who fatally shot 2 teens in Brockton, DA says The Plymouth County District Attorneys Office issued an arrest warrant and a reward leading to the capture of an alleged double-murder suspect. 22-year-old Davinci Leonard is wanted on charges of two counts of murder, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling, possessing ammunition without an FID card, and carrying a loaded firearm without a license. Hes accused of shooting and killing 18-year-old Cevannah Alvarez and 15-year-old Tymari Albertson at the Westgate Mall in Brockton back in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leonard fled the scene and police believe he may have changed his appearance. Since then, two accomplices of Leonards, 32-year-old David Mosley-Lott of Quincy and 24-year-old Jaylen Speed of Dorchester were arrested and arraigned for their involvement in helping Leonard evade police, according to the DAs office. They were both indicted in Plymouth County Superior Court on Wednesday. Both Mosley-Lott and Speed were held on $50,000 cash bail, placed on GPS monitoring, ordered to home confinement if released, and ordered to stay away from witnesses in the murder case. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Leonards arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call Massachusetts State Police at 1-800-KAPTURE (1-800-527-8873). Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Leigh Haldeman, a nurse at a hospital in Seattle who is 32 weeks pregnant with her second child, was advised in early June by her medical team to get vaccinated for Covid. This was not idle medical advice: Shed had complications in her first pregnancy that made her high risk if she were to get Covid. Her midwife advised her to get the vaccine while she was still pregnant, to avoid getting Covid in her third trimester and to protect her newborn. What should have been a straightforward vaccination turned into a Kafkaesque runaroundone that portends the chaos to come for people trying to get Covid vaccines now and come the fall. The result will be lower rates of Covid vaccination and higher rates of transmission, long Covid, hospitalizations, and deaths with a summer surge already underway. In late May, Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had taken to X to announce that Covid vaccinations would no longer be recommended to pregnant people or healthy children, although long Covid is now the most common chronic condition among children.* A week before, the Food and Drug Administration had also announced that healthy people under age 65 would not be eligible for the shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement raised a flurry of questions and panic within the public health community: Notwithstanding the fact that this abrupt announcement occurred on social media rather than any official channel, it preempted the late June meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, a team of experts who have handled annual vaccination recommendations for the past half-century. It also, of course, went against the hundreds of studies on the Covid vaccines safety and efficacy. Recent data on last winters Covid shot showed 3040 percent additional protection against urgent care visits and 4070 percent additional protection against hospitalizations and ICU stays, with protection lasting six months or more. The directive was also contradictory, marking an unprecedented divergence in the guidance from public health experts at the CDC and competing information coming down from RFK Jr. and the FDA. The CDC clearly lists pregnancy as an underlying qualifying condition for a Covid vaccine, and did not remove its recommendation for vaccination in children from its vaccine schedule. This all left Haldeman in a tough position. At work at the hospital, she and her colleagues in infectious disease medicine had no idea if she would be allowed to get the vaccine, although they all agreed she should. Haldeman previously had no issues getting vaccinated or boosted for Covid-19, and received a booster during her first pregnancy. She made an appointment and went to the closest Walgreens. The staff there immediately noticed she was pregnant and told her they couldnt administer the vaccinethey could only give it to her if she was immunocompromised, and they did not consider pregnancy to fall under that category. It was very frustrating, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked for comment, a Walgreens spokesperson said that Walgreens is proud to continue serving our patients as a trusted and convenient resource for immunizations and will continue to closely monitor and review all federal and state guidance related to vaccines. The spokesperson clarified that the policy varies, state by state. After being turned away, Haldeman called her primary care doctor to see if they could give her the vaccine, but they told her they didnt have it in stock. The midwifery clinic didnt either. No one had good advice to offer, other than calling around pharmacies until someone would do it. So she called a nearby Safeway pharmacy. The person on the phone first said no, but when she objected, she was transferred to a pharmacist. The pharmacist said maybe she could get the vaccine if she got a prescription from her provider and brought that with her to the pharmacy, but didnt guarantee it would work. Armed with a prescription, she went to the nearest Safeway, only to discover that it didnt have the vaccine in stock. At the second-closest Safeway, staff noticed she was pregnant and panicked, and had her sit in a waiting room. I was in tears at this point, just so frustrated, she said. I wasted so much time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haldeman eventually succeeded in getting her vaccination on her fourth attempt, but the experience left her unnerved and upset. I had to advocate for myself so much to actually get the vaccine, she said, recognizing that most people, especially those who are hesitant about vaccines in the first place, would likely give up. Moreover, the experience made her feel criminalized: If someones treating you like youre doing something illegal, then youre going to assume that theres something wrong with what youre doing, even though the evidence is clearly very much in support of getting vaccinated while pregnant, she said. A company spokesperson told The New Republic that Safeway is committed to providing care that aligns with the latest public health recommendations in accordance with CDC guidance. Currently, individuals, including those pregnant, with specific medical conditions that increase their risk of severe illness remain eligible for vaccination. Still, Haldeman had to get a prescription from a doctor to obtain the vaccine. Haldemans experience makes clear that medical professionals, pharmacies, and people trying to get vaccinated are all weathering the fallout of RFK Jr.s announcement restricting Covid-19 vaccines and the muddle that followed, and trying to figure out how to proceed amid the confusion. Secretary Kennedys decision is already causing substantial uncertainty and access issues, said Doris Reiss, a law professor at the University of California, San Francisco, and expert in legal issues around vaccines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just days before the ACIP committee was set to meet, RFK Jr. abruptly fired all 17 of its membersall of whom were preeminent vaccine expertsand appointed eight new ones. Of the new appointments, most were prominent vaccine skeptics, many of whom had clear conflicts of interest. Amid the egregious diversions from established procedures, it has gone virtually unnoticed that the new slate of ACIP members didnt even meet a voting quorum. The meeting went ahead, despite objections, and the committee ended up postponing the vote on Covid-19 vaccine recommendations for pregnant people and children. I am not sorry that this groupseveral of which have clear anti-Covid-19 vaccine biasesdid not vote on the issue, said Reiss. Apart from Dr. [Cody] Meissner, committee members lack subject matter expertise and several have clear anti-vaccine biases. The American Academy of Pediatrics, or AAP, boycotted the meetingWe wont lend out our name to a system that is being politicized at the expense of childrens health, said the AAP president in a video posted before the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Evidence Collective, a group of public health experts and communicators, logged 50 falsehoods stated during the two-day meeting. The members didnt seem to understand basic vaccine studies, said Jonathan Howard, a neurologist in New York and author of the book We Want Them Infected. Though the committee did vote to approve RSV shots and (most) flu shots, the new ACIP chair, Covid and vaccine skeptic Martin Kulldorff, a statistician and epidemiologist, announced two new working groups that would reassess childrens vaccines schedule recommendations. Both Reiss and Howard commended the CDC staffers for presenting information in an informative and accessible way, despite the significant challenges they faced. Reiss said that the vote for Covid vaccines could be held in October, when the next quarterly ACIP meeting is scheduled, or sooner at a separately scheduled meeting. Until then, as Dr. Angela Branche, an infectious disease expert at the University of Rochester Medicine, told Rewire, we are basically operating blind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early July, the American Association of Pediatricsalong with several doctors, including a pregnant plaintiff doctor who also had trouble getting the vaccinesued HHS, arguing RFK Jr.s directive and firing of the ACIP members was arbitrary and capricious and has caused significant harm to doctors looking to stock and administer the vaccine. Reiss added that having a plaintiff with standing, or one like the pregnant doctor, Jane Doe, who has clearly been directly impacted by the directive, strengthens the lawsuit. (Reiss is not affiliated with the lawsuit.) Pregnancy increases the risk of severe illness and complications from infectious disease, including preterm birth and stillbirth, the lawsuit text states. However, the Directive creates barriers to access to the vaccine and has left Jane and her husband overwhelmed with stress and uncertainty. Her worries are not just for herself, but also for the health and safety of her unborn child. The strongly worded lawsuit underscores the importance of ACIP not only in establishing vaccine recommendations but also in determining insurance coverage, state and local laws, and vaccination requirements in schools and medical settings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RFK Jr.s directive restricting vaccine access via X breaks the promise that the Secretary made to the Senate and the American people not to make it difficult to get vaccines or discourage them, the text states. The Directive, unless vacated, will result in preventable deaths, including the unborn and newborns under six months old. It continues: The Secretarys dismantling of the vaccine infrastructure must end. Reiss thinks its highly possible to prove RFK Jr.s actions were arbitrary and capricious. As she explained to The New Republic, In both the video and the directive, Secretary Kennedy provided very little explanation, let alone a thorough consideration of the existing evidence and a justification for deviating from past agency positions. In response to the lawsuit, the so-called MAHA Institute sent an unconvincing rebuttal to its subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until a judge halts RFK Jr.s directive, it will stand. Meanwhile, 80 medical associations reaffirmed their commitment to vaccination, while the University of Minnesotabased Vaccine Integrity Project is working with a number of partners to offer its own vaccine recommendations regardless of what the now-compromised ACIP decides. The antidemocratic, anti-science actions at HHS go beyond RFK Jr., who has appointed like-minded henchmen like Jay Bhattacharya to head the National Institutes of Health and Dr. Vinay Prasad at the helm of the influential Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research arm of the Food and Drug Administration, or CBER. Prasad, who I have written about in these pages, is overseeing a consolidation of power at CBER. He has repeatedly overruled FDA experts recommendations for Covid vaccines. He is behind the decree that they be restricted to people over 65 and those age 12 to 64 with underlying health conditions, according to Biospace, a life science news site. A July 9 memo by Prasad, riddled with egregious inaccuracies, argued that he felt differently about certain aspects of the FDA reviewers conclusions that Covid vaccines should remain broadly available. I think there has got to be a ton of frustration at the FDA with Prasad overruling them all based on vibes, said Howard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This alarming growth of authoritarianism at HHS is just the beginning. Although the vast majority of Americans, including Republicans, believe vaccines are safe, there will be considerable fallout from giving anti-vaxxers a mainstream platform of authority. In addition to confusion and mistrust, such sentiments have already led to a measles outbreak, which RFK Jr. is grossly mishandling, and the looming threat of bird flu. The consequences of these policies will be more transmission of preventable diseases and death, in a time when accessing health care is about to become more difficult, with the largest Medicaid cuts in history imminent. Amid the horrors, its easy to forget that Covid-19 remains a threat. Weve all sort of gotten numb to it, said Haldeman. But without tools available to fight it, were walking straight into another public health disaster: Its really dangerous. * This article originally mischaracterized Kennedys May tweet. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) A ribbon cutting is set for the newly remodeled Walmart in Boardman. What the corporation is calling the Poland Walmart Supercenter will celebrate the remodel on July 25 and will include the recognition of local organizations that are making an impact in the community. Samples and special giveaways will also be part of the ribbon cutting. The event is set for 9 a.m. on Friday, July 25, at the store located at 1300 Doral Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Boardman store is one of two in the Valley that was being remodeled. The other one is on Dresden Avenue in East Liverpool. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 out-of-service Rhode Island Public Transit Authority Bus travels on Interstate 95 on May 2, 2025. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) Everyone knows service cuts are coming to the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) as its leadership looks to navigate a $10 million budget shortfall, but just how deeply remains under wraps until the agencys board of directors meets Thursday afternoon. The agenda for the boards 1:30 p.m. meeting lists an executive session followed by a Board Discussion/Potential Vote on service changes. But no details about the changes were available as of Wednesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats left transit advocates like Amy Glidden in the dark ahead of RIPTAs first legally-mandated public hearing on the proposed cuts scheduled to begin on Monday, July 28. Usually we get the cuts before then, Glidden, the chair of RI Transit Riders, said in an interview Wednesday. To have a couple of weekdays thats not really fair to the public. The head of the union representing RIPTAs bus drivers says employees remain in the dark too. Were not getting all the answers either, said Amalgamated Transit Union Local 618 President Walter Melillo. Obviously things are up in the air. Im sure theyre going to have some cuts on the table, and its going to have a big effect on our members and the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By having a closed-door meeting in the middle of Thursdays meeting, Glidden said the board is effectively discouraging the public from sticking around through the end of the meeting depending on how long the executive session lasts. Its harder to get people out to hearings if you dont know what the cuts are, she said. Asked why proposed cuts werent listed on Thursdays agenda, RIPTA spokesperson Cristy Raposo Perry replied in an email to Rhode Island Current that the board will receive an update on matters tomorrow. Following that, we will share additional information and hold 12 public hearings as scheduled where public comment will be collected, Raposo Perry wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twelve hearings on proposed service changes to be held across the state over six days from July 28 to Aug. 6 were announced in June. At the same time, RIPTA said there will be a proposed fare increase and a list of fixed-route services slated for cuts as RIPTA finalizes its fall service plan. Bus fare has been $2 per trip since 2010. Before that year, fares typically went up a quarter every two to three years, except for the seven years it remained at $1.25 between 1998 and 2005, according to a chart provided by RIPTA How to comment on service cuts Unable to attend the RIPTAs public hearings in person? You can submit comments through Aug. 6 by emailing marketing@ripta.com or (401) 784-9500 x1101. RIPTAs June announcement did indicate the end of the South County Express Beach Bus service on Sept. 6. The route connects Central Falls, Pawtucket and Providence, Woonsocket, North Providence and Cranston to the Scarborough, Wheeler, and Salty Brine state beaches during summer weekends and holidays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I anticipate rural service is going to be hurt as well, Glidden said. Were looking at basically turning into a metro system. In January, Gov. Dan McKees recommended fiscal 2026 state budget left a $32.6 million hole in RIPTAs budget. The General Assembly eventually propped up RIPTA with nearly $15 million in annual revenue from an additional 2-cent increase in the states gas tax and upping the agencys share of the states Highway Maintenance Account. RIPTA administrators reduced the shortfall to $10 million after identifying an additional $8 million in savings from a favorable price lock in diesel fuel, along with a positive market performance for the agencys pension plan. The board also opted to forgo renewing insurance intended to cover medical claims by employees a move CEO Christopher Durand said saved $480,000 in premiums and fees and five jobs. But even with the additional savings, Durand told reporters after the boards June 26 meeting that the budget cuts could impact as many as 90 to 100 employees reversing all of the gains made following last years wage hike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were headed in the right direction, Melillo said. Im concerned. I dont want to see anyone lose a job. McKee and legislative leaders had ordered RIPTA to finish an efficiency study to recommend ways to reduce costs by March 1. But the board of directors was focused on finding a permanent CEO and didnt commission Canadian engineering consulting firm WSP to conduct the study until March 27. Although portions of the study were made public in the final weeks of the 2025 legislative session, a final report has yet to be released. A May 30 draft report identified underperforming routes, including the 88 bus, which travels between Simmons Village in Cranston to the Walmart off Plainfield Pike; Route 69, which connects the University of Rhode Island to the Port of Galilee; and the 59X express route in North Smithfield and Lincoln. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A June 16 draft memo suggested fare increases. It also recommended reallocating resources away from providing bus service in rural communities with low ridership to more populated low-income areas, along with more service for Providence residents who commute to jobs outside of the city. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX By Heba Fouad ALEXANDRIA, Egypt (Reuters) -From her ninth-floor balcony over Alexandria's seafront, Eman Mabrouk looked down at the strip of sand that used to be the wide beach where she played as a child. "The picture is completely different now," she said. The sea has crept closer, the concrete barriers have got longer and the buildings around her have cracked and shifted. Every year 40 of them collapse across Egypt's second city, up from one on average a decade ago, a study shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The storied settlement that survived everything from bombardment by the British in the 1880s to attacks by crusaders in the 1160s is succumbing to a subtler foe infiltrating its foundations. The warming waters of the Mediterranean are rising, part of a global phenomenon driven by climate change. In Alexandria, that is leading to coastal erosion and sending saltwater seeping through the sandy substrate, undermining buildings from below, researchers say. "This is why we see the buildings in Alexandria being eroded from the bottom up," said Essam Heggy, a water scientist at the University of Southern California who co-wrote the study published in February describing a growing crisis in Alexandria and along the whole coast. The combination of continuous seawater rises, ground subsidence and coastal erosion means Alexandrias coastline has receded on average 3.5 metres a year over the last 20 years, he told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many people who see that climatic change is something that will happen in the future and we dont need to worry about it, its actually happening right now, right here," Heggy said. The situation is alarming enough when set out in the report - "Soaring Building Collapses in Southern Mediterranean Coasts" in the journal "Earth's Future". For Mabrouk, 50, it has been part of day-to-day life for years. She had to leave her last apartment when the building started moving. "It eventually got slanted. I mean, after two years, we were all ... leaning," she told Reuters. "If you put something on the table, you would feel like it was rolling." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BARRIERS, BULLDOZERS, CRACKS Egypt's government has acknowledged the problem and promised action. Submerged breakwaters reduce coastal wave action and truckloads of sand replenish stripped beaches. Nine concrete sea barriers have been set up "to protect the delta and Alexandria from the impact of rising sea waves," Alexandria's governor, Ahmed Khaled Hassan, said. The barriers stretch out to sea, piles of striking geometric shapes, their clear curves and lines standing out against the crumbling, flaking apartment blocks on the land. Authorities are trying to get in ahead of the collapses by demolishing buildings at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 7,500 were marked for destruction and 55,000 new housing units will be built, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly told a crowd as he stood on one of the concrete barriers on July 14. "There isn't a day that passes without a partial or complete collapse of at least one building that already had a demolition order," Madbouly said. Some are hopeful the measures can make a difference. "There are no dangers now ... They have made their calculations," coffee shop owner Shady Mostafa said as he watched builders working on one of the barriers. Others are less sure. Alexandria's 70-km (45-mile) long coastal zone was marked down as the most vulnerable in the whole Mediterranean basin in the February report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 2% of the city's housing stock or about 7,000 buildings were probably unsafe, it added. Every day, more people are pouring into the city - Alexandria's population has nearly doubled to about 5.8 million in the last 25 years, swollen by workers and tourists, according to Egypt's statistics agency CAPMAS. Property prices keep going up, despite all the risks, trackers show. Sea levels are rising across the world, but they are rising faster in the Mediterranean than in many other bodies of water, partly because the relative shallowness of its sea basin means it is warming up faster. The causes may be global, but the impacts are local, said 26-year-old Alexandria resident Ahmed al-Ashry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's a change in the buildings, there's a change in the streets," he told Reuters. "Every now and then we try to renovate the buildings, and in less than a month, the renovations start to fall apart. Our neighbours have started saying the same thing, that cracks have started to appear." (Reporting by Heba Fouad and Ahmed Fahmy; Writing by Mohamed Ezz; Editing by Katy Daigle and Andrew Heavens) OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Ticks and mosquitoes carry an extra risk to pets and livestock during the hotter seasons, especially because Oklahoma has had a wetter summer than usual. Medical conditions that ticks and mosquitoes can cause in pets: Ehrliciosis Heart Worms Cytauzoonosis Risks that ticks and mosquitoes can cause in horses and livestock: Viral infections such as West Nile Skin issues Anaplasmosis Veterinarian Dr. Lindsay Starkey from Oklahoma State University joined us in the studio to explain how the hotter weather can be hazardous for our pets and livestock in the video above. Advertisement 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. A road crew worker was killed and two others were critically injured on Wednesday, July 23, when a southbound SUV crossed a median and struck the crew in a work zone on Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills, police said. The crash happened shortly after 11 a.m. near Misty Pines Drive, between 10 and 11 Mile roads, according to the Farmington Hills Police Department. A silver Ford Escape drove across the median and hit the three-person Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) crew, who were repairing a drainage basin in the northbound lanes of Orchard Lake Road. One of the workers died at the scene. The other two were taken to the hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries, police said. The SUVs driver, the only person in the vehicle, was also hospitalized. Police did not release information about the driver's condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased," Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott said in a news release. "We also extend our thoughts and prayers to the injured crew members and their families as they continue to receive medical attention, along with the entire Road Commission for Oakland County family affected by this tragic incident." The road commission also responded to the tragedy, focusing on support for its workers and their families. We are extremely saddened by the loss of one of our family members, and the injury of two others, the RCOC's managing director, Dennis Kolar, said in a statement. Right now, our top priority is supporting these employees families." Orchard Lake Road remains closed between 10 Mile and 11 Mile roads into the afternoon and early evening as the investigation continues. It was not immediately clear whether alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Whitmer secures disaster declaration from Trump for Northern Michigan storms The police department said it "urges all drivers to be aware and take extra caution near construction crews, as their job can be extremely hazardous working near moving traffic." Road commission officials echoed that message, emphasizing the dangers road workers face even when safety protocols are followed. More: Detroit 3 automakers raise concerns about Japan trade deal This devastating event is a stark reminder of the importance of work zone safety, Kolar added. Despite our crew taking every precaution to secure the area, there are still risks every single day on the job. Today is a heartbreaking day for the families of our co-workers and for the entire RCOC family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Road crew worker, 23, fatally struck by excavator bucket in Brighton Township, police say Under Michigan law, drivers who cause injury in a work zone face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Causing a death in a work zone is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $7,500 fine. The incident comes less than a month after a separate fatal work zone accident involving a road worker. On June 30, a 23-year-old man from St. Clair Shores died after being struck by an excavator bucket while working in an excavated hole along Grand River Avenue near I-96 in Brighton Township. Police said it appeared the excavator operator did not know the victim was in the hole. Anyone with information about the fatal July 23 crash is asked to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department at 248-871-2610. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nour Rahal is a trending and breaking news reporter. Email her: nrahal@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @nrahal1. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 1 killed, 2 injured after SUV strikes road workers in Farmington Hills ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) This morning, community members and scholars from Freedom Scholars Learning Center gathered at Rochesters City Hall to hold a demonstration with the theme Public Education is Public Good: The Power of Culturally Responsive Curriculum. The event included three community-driven activities to illustrate their message. Organizers began with a march and rally with opportunities for youth to speak, perform, and lead chants. The rally included original student works such as poetry, songs, and speeches focused on self-discovery, banned books, and educational access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gallery Walk and Talk provided students the opportunity to reflect on how current education and teaching will shape their future by creating artwork that imagines themselves in the future. The artwork was displayed as a gallery walk. The third was the Student-Written Op-Eds for Public Awareness. Higher-level students wrote opinion pieces that highlighted the importance of culturally responsive curriculum and the need to invest in public education. The final pieces will be submitted to newspapers and media outlets for publication. Participants say, despite public education being one of the most effective tools for social mobility and civic engagement, the U.S. Constitution does not explicitly guarantee the right to education. Therefore, it is important to make sure the public education programs available remain. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) Rockford Police arrested Delbert Brown, 62, for strangling a nurse with a stethoscope, according to court records. Officers were called to the Swedish American Hospital on East State for reports that a nurse was attacked on July 18. The incident began when Brown called the nurse a racial slur, authorities reported. Delbert Brown. Photo: Winnebago County Jail The nurse told officials that he was restrained but later broke free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When she attempted to restrain him again, Brown wrapped her stethoscope around her neck and started to strangle her, according to court records. The victim told police she was strangled for about five minutes. Brown was booked into the Winnebago County Jail on July 22. He is charged with aggravated battery that caused strangulation, aggravated battery of a nurse and hate 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 MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. JERUSALEM Rafael Advanced Systems will supply short-range air defense systems to Romania for well over $2 billion, the Romanian Ministry of Defense announced this week. The transaction will be the second largest defense deal in Israeli defense-industry history after the sale of the Arrow-3 to Germany for $3.5 billion. The bulk of the Romanian purchase is for Spyder defense system batteries in various configurations, which will allow the integration of short-range interceptors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel competed in the Romanian tender against European competitors to provide a defensive response, among other things, from attacks similar to those experienced by neighboring Ukraine, such as drones, cruise missiles and attack helicopters. The Spyder is a mobile air defense system whose components are mounted on off-road trucks, and is built around Python-4 heat-seeking missiles and radar-guided Derby missiles, designed to intercept targets at low altitudes and at a distance of tens of kilometers. Rafael confirmed to Defense News that it submitted Spyder configurations for the Romanian tender. Romanian officials indicated that they will purchase six Spyder systems over a period of seven years, with the first two very-short-range systems to be delivered within three years of the signing of the first contract. Israel Aerospace Industries, which supplies the Elta MMR radar for the Spyder, is expected to receive a share of approximately $100 million from Rafaels deal with Romania, which brings Rafaels total Spyder sales to date to approximately $5 billion. Three Romanian men were arrested after authorities uncovered a large-scale credit card skimming operation in a Dallas home, the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation announced. The bust, which involved multiple agencies, resulted in the seizure of 115 credit card skimmers, $50,000 in cash, 25 fake IDs, and over 300 payment cards that had been re-encoded with victims account numbers. The investigation began July 17 when a merchant reported a skimmer to the Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center (FCIC). The following day, officers executed a search warrant at a Dallas residence, where they discovered what FCIC officials described as a credit card skimmer factory suspected to be part of a larger international criminal organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to FCIC analysts, the seizure of the skimmers, fake IDs, and payment cards thwarted an estimated $23 million in additional potential fraud. The suspects, identified as Victor Marian Tecu, Triussa Gabrielle (also known as Ionut Firan Alexandrau), and Gheorge Ciprian Hilitanu, face charges of engaging in organized criminal activity, unlawful interception of electronic communications, tampering with a government document, and fraudulent use or possession of credit card or debit card information. The operation involved the Texas Department of Public Safety, North Texas TAG, the Dallas Police Department, the Euless Police Department, and the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service. FCIC officials cautioned that financial crimes, including payment card skimming and the use of fraudulent documents, remain an evolving threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March of this year, two other Romanian citizens, Petruta Camelia Ciuperca, 34, and Alexandru Constantin, 34, were arrested for operating a credit card skimming factory from their Dallas-area residence. The investigation into the suspected international crime network continues. ROME (AP) Half a million young people are expected to pour into Rome next week for the biggest event of the 2025 Holy Year: a weeklong Jubilee celebration for young Catholics that will sorely test their tolerance for heat and the Eternal Citys ability to provide public services, security and logistical support during its peak tourist season. Officials said Wednesday the highlight of the celebration is the Aug. 2-3 vigil service, outdoor overnight slumber party and morning Mass presided over by Pope Leo XIV, the first massive gathering for history's first American pope. It's being held on the same dusty field on the outskirts of Rome where St. John Paul II led the 2000 World Youth Day, an even larger gathering of some 2 million young Catholics in that millennial Jubilee year. With temperatures next weekend expected between 32C to 34C (90F to 93F), organizers have lined up five million bottles of water, 2,660 drinking water stations and 70 giant water cannons that are normally used for dust control during building demolitions to spritz the young pilgrims to try to keep them cool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After attending a week of events around Romes center, they will begin arriving at the Tor Vergata field on Saturday afternoon and spend the night there before the morning Mass Sunday, with access in and out requiring a 5 kilometer (three-mile) hike at minimum from the nearest public transport hub. A massive security and logistical setup Italian and Vatican organizers on Wednesday outlined plans for the gathering, which Rome authorities said represented the biggest technological setup ever in Italy. Four thousand police and firefighters have been called up to provide security, with Spanish, French and Polish law enforcement agencies sending teams to help out, given the large number of pilgrims expected from those countries. Officials are closing the airspace over the Tor Vergata field to civilian aircraft and drones, and 122 surveillance cameras have been set up to keep watch on the proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an event that because of its importance requires exceptional security measures, Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini told a Vatican press conference. We dont have any signs of negative attention to the event, but the international situation, the various tensions and the magnitude, significance and beauty of the event require us to be very careful. Some 68% of the young people who registered to attend hail from European countries, though pilgrims from 146 countries are expected, said the Vaticans Jubilee chief, Archbishop Rino Fisichella. A Jubilee that resembles a World Youth Day The youth Jubilee comes at the halfway point in the Vaticans 2025 Holy Year, a once-every-quarter-century celebration of Catholicism that brings millions of pilgrims to Rome. Fisichella said 17 million pilgrims had attended Jubilee events so far in 2025, representing more than half the 32 million expected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event has assumed many characteristics of a World Youth Day, the Catholic youth rally taking place every three years that was launched by John Paul and maintained by every pope since. Heat waves and the invariable health issues that accompany them have become an integral part of youth days, since they are always scheduled during summer when young people are typically on vacation. But such Catholic Woodstocks have also produced some of the most memorable papal moments. Many faithful still remember John Paul telling the youngsters at Tor Vergata in 2000 that they were sentinels of the morning at the dawn of the third millennium, Pope Benedict XVI braving a violent storm in Madrid in 2011 to continue praying, and Pope Francis telling young people in Lisbon in 2023 that everyone -- todos, todos, todos is welcome in the Catholic Church. Volunteers, portable toilets and ambulances at the ready The yearlong Jubilee, which was preceded by two years of intense construction projects around Rome, has added even more strain on Romes public services beyond the normal tourist high season. To spare the congested city center, some 20,000 people will be housed on the grounds of Romes old convention center on the city's outskirts, while another 40,000 will be housed in some of the 429-plus schools and 360 parishes around Rome that have offered to take them in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to law enforcement, 3,000 civil protection volunteers, 500 Vatican volunteers and 4,300 Jubilee stewards will be on hand to shepherd the young people around. A medevac helicopter, 43 ambulances, and 10 mobile health positions will be at the Tor Vergata field in case pilgrims fall ill. Romes notoriously insufficient public transport system is being reinforced to provide nearly around-the-clock service and sanitation workers are clocking overtime to the tune of 4,600 shifts. There will be 2,760 portable toilets, plus 158 for disabled people, spread over the event space of 52 hectares (128 acres), officials said. This collective effort is a big institutional test, acknowledged the vice president of the Lazio region, Roberta Angelilli. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. Russia and Ukraine agreed a prisoner swap during their third set of direct talks in Istanbul on Wednesday, but appeared to make little progress on ceasefire terms or a possible summit between their presidents with their meeting ending after less than an hour. The meeting came days after US President Donald Trump gave Moscow a 50-day deadline to make peace or face very severe tariffs. Russian President Vladimir Putin has not publicly acknowledged Trumps ultimatum, and Moscow has continued to pummel Ukrainian cities with drones and missiles while its ground troops grind forward in the east. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking after Wednesdays meeting, Ukraines former defense minister Rustem Umerov who led Kyivs delegation said he had proposed a summit by the end of August between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin and suggested the participation of (US) President Trump and (Turkish President Recep Tayyip) Erdogan will be most valuable. However, Russias delegate Vladimir Medinsky, a former culture minister and now a senior Putin aide, said such a meeting would be appropriate only to sign an agreement, Reuters reported. The two sides also remained at odds over the terms of any possible ceasefire, with Umerov saying Ukraine was seeking a full and unconditional ceasefire as a necessary basis for effective diplomacy, while Russia called for a series of short ceasefires of between 24 and 48 hours, on the front line, to allow medical teams to pick up dead and wounded soldiers. The two sides did appear to find some common ground on prisoner exchanges, with Medinksy telling a press conference after the meeting that an exchange of around 250 Russian and 250 Ukrainian prisoners of war was being completed along the Ukrainian-Belarusian border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medinsky said the two sides had also agreed that in the near future an exchange of at least 1,200 more prisoners of war from each side will be carried out. The two previous rounds of talks in Istanbul, in May and June, helped facilitate the exchange of thousands of prisoners of war and the remains of dead soldiers, but also made little progress toward peace. In a message on Telegram on Wednesday, Zelensky said more than 1,000 Ukrainians had now been returned through all the stages of the recent Istanbul agreements. Bringing all our people back is a priority for the state, he said, And we will continue all efforts to ensure that all our people return from captivity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expectations were low before Wednesdays talks, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stressing that the two sides negotiating positions remain diametrically opposed and telling reports not to expect any miraculous breakthroughs. Mounting casualties Last month, Russian casualties hit a grim milestone, with the UKs Ministry of Defence estimating that Putins war has likely cost Russia more than 1 million casualties since the start of its full-scale invasion in February 2022. That number tracked with an assessment the same month from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a think tank in Washington, DC, which put the number of casualties at 950,000 and predicted that Russia will likely hit the 1 million casualty mark in the summer of 2025. Rustem Umerov, Ukraine's former defense minister, is heading Kyiv's delegation. - Leonhard Foeger/Reuters Despite those losses, the Russian president has shown little sign of compromising on his maximalist war aim of dismantling Ukraines sovereignty. In a long essay published months before the full-scale invasion, Putin falsely argued that Russia and Ukraine are one country; his comments suggesting to many that the war has been waged to make that a reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Trumps fresh threat of new sanctions on Russia and other countries that purchase Russian oil if peace isnt reached in 50 days, the US also secured a deal to funnel new weapons to Kyiv through European allies. The moves were in stark contrast with previous approaches the US leader has taken with the conflict. Trumps reversal came after the European Union unveiled a new package of sanctions proposing to lower the price cap on Russian oil exports and introducing a full transaction ban on Russian banks and financial institutions in third countries that help Russia dodge existing sanctions. It is unclear whether Trumps latest decisions will sway Moscows approach, but his about-face could provide a much-needed boost to Ukraines military coffers, and signals his growing frustration with Putin. My conversations with him are very pleasant, and then the missiles go off at night, Trump explained last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the talks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his call for a direct meeting with Putin, saying only a meeting of the two leaders can end the war. Katharina Krebs, Victoria Butenko and Anna Cooban contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Roy Cooper is expected to announce his campaign for the North Carolina Senate as soon as Monday, according to two people directly familiar with the former governors decision. The popular, former two-term governors entrance into the Senate race for a seat Republican Sen. Thom Tillis is leaving open with his announcement last month that he wont seek reelection is expected to transform the Senate race into the most competitive of 2026. Democrats, facing a difficult path to seizing control of the Senate next year, landed their dream recruit with Cooper, who would enter the race as a favorite. North Carolina represents one of the few offensive opportunities for Democrats, who are locked out of power at every level in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lara Trump, President Donald Trumps daughter-in-law, is considering her own bid for the seat, effectively freezing Republican recruitment. Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley, who served as the head of the states party, is also interested, but is deferring to Trump, POLITICO reported last month . Tillis, who was first elected in 2014, denounced Trumps tax-and-spend megabill in a fiery speech last month, warning that the drastic Medicaid cuts would betray the promise Donald Trump made to voters. He was one of two Republicans to vote against the legislation, drawing Trumps threats to recruit a GOP primary challenger. The next day, Tillis announced he would not run for reelection. Democrats are expected to use Tillis words specifically that the megabill will hurt people who are eligible and qualified for Medicaid against the eventual Republican nominee. Tillis criticisms, particularly on healthcare, will be a core part of Democrats midterm messaging across the country, as other congressional Republicans also pledged to not make cuts to Medicaid. But the North Carolina Senate seat has eluded Democrats since 2008, even as Cooper and his successor, Democratic Gov. Josh Stein, held onto the governors mansion. Democrats hope that Cooper can crack the code with his aw-shucks demeanor, broad popularity and ability to raise big cash for his race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooper was initially considered a top choice to be then-Vice President Kamala Harris running mate in 2024, but he pulled himself out of contention , citing concerns that North Carolinas controversial Republican lieutenant governor would take over each time Cooper traveled out of state. The call, confirmed by Tammy Bruce, focused on urging the Iraqi government to take action against those responsible and to strengthen measures to prevent future incidents. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Monday to address a series of recent attacks on Iraqs energy infrastructure, including facilities run by American companies. The call, confirmed by State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, focused on urging the Iraqi government to take action against those responsible and to strengthen measures to prevent future incidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the discussion, Rubio also emphasized the need for Baghdad to consistently pay public employees in the Iraqi Kurdistan region and to restart oil exports through the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline. The flow of crude through the pipeline has been suspended since March 2023 due to legal disputes and political disagreements, severely affecting both regional and national revenues. Rubio expressed firm opposition to a proposed law concerning the Popular Mobilization Commission (PMC), a state-affiliated umbrella group that includes various armed factions, some of which have ties to Iran. Any such legislation would institutionalize Iranian influence and armed terrorist groups undermining Iraqs sovereignty, Bruce quoted Rubio as saying. Iraqi boys hold Iranian flags in Baghdad, Iraq, June 24, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/AHMED SAAD) The US has long been critical of the PMCs growing influence The bill, now under review in Iraqs Council of Representatives, would formally integrate the PMC into the Iraqi state structure, raising alarm in Washington over its implications for Iraqs independence and regional stability. The US has long been critical of the PMCs growing influence and the involvement of groups accused of attacking US interests in Iraq. The conversation underscores growing concerns in Washington over security risks to American companies operating in Iraq and the broader geopolitical consequences of increased Iranian sway within the country. July 23 (UPI) -- The State Department is investigating whether Harvard University undermines U.S. policy via educational and cultural exchanges that enable international students, professors and others to obtain visas. The investigation's purpose is to determine whether or not Harvard officials are undermining national security and foreign policy through its participation in the Exchange Visitor Program, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday. "All sponsors participating in this program are required to fully comply with exchange visitor regulations, transparency in reporting and a demonstrated commitment to fostering the principles of cultural exchange and mutual understanding upon which the program was founded," Rubio said in a prepared statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvard "must comply with all regulations ... in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States," Rubio continued. "The American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law and provide safe environments for all students." He said the investigation will ensure the university's participation in State Department programs does not "run contrary to our nation's interests." The Trump administration in May revoked Harvard's eligibility to participate in the Exchange Visitor Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. District Court of Massachusetts Judge Allison Burroughs overturned the revocation of Harvard's program eligibility. Rubio notified Harvard University President Dr. Alan Garber of the investigation on Wednesday but did not accuse university officials of any wrongdoing in the matter. He gave Harvard a week to provide relevant university records and said the department will interview university staff and possibly students who are participating in the exchange program. The Department of Homeland Security in July likewise subpoenaed Harvard to obtain information on the university's program participation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department's investigation will not affect Harvard's sponsorship and enrollment of students, professors and researchers, according to a statement shared with United Press International. "This investigation is yet another retaliatory step taken by the administration in violation of Harvard's First Amendment rights," a Harvard spokesperson said. "Harvard continues to enroll and sponsor international scholars, researchers and students and will protect its international community and support them as they apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall." SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Throughout Utah, 21 rural hospitals are now bracing for unknown changes after the One Big, Beautiful bill passed earlier this month. Rural healthcare providers said it will negatively affect residents in rural areas and rural hospitals. We anticipate especially with nursing, its going to change nurse-to-patient ratios, which is going to have a dramatic impact on healthcare because nursing is such a big impact on healthcare, Kasey Shakespear, Executive Director of the Rural Health Association of Utah, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SWAT team arrests three after standoff, following Heber birthday party stabbing The bill includes cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and other rural health care programs. There wont be any hospital closures in the next few months, but we have to start preparing and looking at ways we can cut costs, Matt McCullough, Rural Hospital Improvement Director for the Utah Rural Hospital Association, said. A recent report from the National Rural Health Association stated that rural hospitals will lose 21% of their Medicaid funding, which they estimate to be nearly $70 billion over ten years. Its going to be a bumpy ride, but were in Utah, and overcoming adversity is what we do, Shakespear said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the challenges, McCullough said the Rural Hospital Association has a plan. Utah Hospital Association is working with the state and will start having those discussions to figure out whats going to happen to the Medicaid program in the state, how the program is going to be funded, eligibility, and whether we will still be an expansion state or not, McCullough said. This is a way to show them we have a voice: Utah sees state-wide Good Trouble protests One part of the bill is the Rural Health Transformation fund, a $50 billion federal investment over five years to help with Medicaid cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state is working with the federal government on what that is going to look like, Shakespear said. Healthcare providers said nearly half of that $25 billion will be evenly distributed to all 50 states, with each state getting around $100 million over the next five years. The rural transformation funding was created to help with that, but it is covering less than half of what was cut, Shakespeare said. To access those funds, each state must submit a plan to the federal government by the end of the year on how the funds will be used and which services it will support. This is going to be challenging, but its a call to action in how we revise healthcare, especially in the rural communities, Shakespeare said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rural healthcare providers said there is still a lot up in the air, but they are working to respond to these major Medicaid and funding cuts and are expecting to have more clarity in the upcoming months. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Russian forces have launched 71 Shahed-type attack UAVs and one decoy drone of various types at Ukraine, 26 of which struck their targets, while the rest failed to reach their destination. Source: Ukrainian Air Force Quote: "As of 09:00, air defence systems have shot down or jammed 27 Russian Shahed-type UAVs (and other types) in the north, east and centre of the country. Another 18 UAVs disappeared from radar or were suppressed by electronic warfare. A total of 26 UAV impacts were recorded in 14 locations and debris from downed drones fell in five locations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The drones were reportedly launched from the areas of Russias Kursk, Millerovo and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, as well as from Cape Chauda in temporarily occupied Crimea. The Russian attack targeted Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Kharkiv and Cherkasy oblasts. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia on Wednesday began major navy drills involving more than 150 vessels and 15,000 military personnel in the Pacific and Arctic oceans and in the Baltic and Caspian seas, the defence ministry said. The so-called "July Storm" exercise from July 23 to July 27 will test the readiness of the fleet for non-standard operations, the use of long-range weapons and other advanced technology including unmanned systems, the ministry said. "At sea, the crews of the ships will practice deployment to combat areas, conducting anti-submarine operations, defending areas of deployment and economic activity," the ministry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The will also practice "repelling attacks by air attack weapons, unmanned boats and enemy drones, ensuring the safety of navigation, striking enemy targets and naval groups." More than 120 aircraft will take part and 10 coastal missile systems, the ministry said. Navy chief, Admiral Alexander Moiseev, will lead the exercise. Russia has the world's third most powerful navy after China and the United States, according to most public rankings, though the navy has suffered a series of high-profile losses in the Ukraine war. (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) The State Duma, the lower chamber of Russia's parliament, on July 22 submitted a bill that, if passed, will expand Russia's seasonal mobilization into a year-round draft. "The bill proposes to change the approach to the conscription of citizens for military service and establish that the conscription of citizens for military service is carried out during the calendar year (from January 1 to December 31) on the basis of a decree of the President of the Russian Federation," the draft law's explanatory note reads. Russia has faced enormous losses as it wages its war against Ukraine, prompting Moscow to draft citizens to fight in the war and entice others, including foreign fighters, with incentives such as Russian citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Currently, Russia drafts its citizens in two waves each year, in the spring and autumn. Although the proposed change would make mobilization continuous, most drafted conscripts will continue to be deployed to their assigned roles in two main periods, from April to July, and from October to December. The bill "was developed in pursuance of the instruction of the President of the Russian Federation dated June 6, 2025... and is aimed at improving the implementation of events related to the conscription of citizens for military service," the document says. The bill was submitted to Russia's parliament by Duma Defense Committee Chairman Andrei Kartapolov and his deputy Andrei Krasov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kartapolov and Krasov's involvement with the bill indicates the Russian Defense Ministry is behind the proposal, and it is likely to be passed, independent Russian media reported. The Russian Duma's current spring session ends on July 23, and the bill is expected to be passed this autumn to come into force on Jan. 1, 2026, media reported. "It is also proposed to send citizens to places of military service on the basis of decrees of the President of the Russian Federation," the draft law's explanatory note says. As of July 23, Russia has lost 1,045,220 troops in Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The identities of 119,154 Russian military personnel killed in Ukraine have been recognized by the Russian independent media outlet, Mediazona, in collaboration with the BBC Russian service. Read also: Point of no return Ukraines democracy under threat as new bill guts anti-corruption efforts Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) has cautioned that Kremlin special services and propagandists are meticulously analysing the internal situation in Ukraine, poised to leverage the protests sparked by Law No. 12414 to erode the nations capacity to withstand Russias full-scale armed aggression. [Law No. 12414 is a contentious piece of legislation that makes the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office dependent on the decisions of the Prosecutor General ed.] Source: press service of DIU Details: Intelligence assessments suggest Russia aims to tarnish Ukraines global image, seeking to weaken or dismantle Western backing for the armed struggle against the aggressor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Within Ukraine, Russia is exploring avenues to exploit public discontent, amplifying the situation with its vast influence resources, notably informational ones. To heighten protest intensity, deepen societal polarisation and chaos, and ultimately destabilise the state amid this existential war, provocative actions orchestrated from Moscow cannot be ruled out. Defence Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine reminds the nation that it faces a genocidal war, where the aggressor relentlessly seeks to obliterate our state, and urges measured judgement and action." Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Moscow has suffered 80,000 soldiers killed and injured during Ukraine's cross-border incursion into Kursk Oblast, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said in an interview with the Washington Post published on July 23. Syrskyi did not reveal Ukraine's casualties in Kursk Oblast but said Russia's losses were significantly greater. The claims could not be independently verified. Ukraine launched the unprecedented offensive into the Russian border in August 2024, taking Russia by surprise and seizing 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) in the first few months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The operation, masterminded by Syrskyi, was designed to divert Russian troops from the front in eastern Ukraine and to disrupt Russia's alleged plans to invade Sumy Oblast, a northeastern region bordering Kursk Oblast. Boosted by around 12,000 North Korean troops, Russia launched a counter-offensive this spring, pushing Ukraine from the vast majority of the Russian territory and advancing into border areas of Sumy Oblast. According to open-source monitoring group DeepState, Ukraine continues to hold a small strip of Russian territory on the border in Kursk Oblast, and Kyiv has repeatedly rejected Moscow's claims about the end of hostilities in the area. While the Kursk operation received praise for its initial tactical success, experts remain divided regarding its strategic usefulness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say the incursion failed to halt Russian advances in Donetsk Oblast and argue the operation should have been ended sooner before it turned into a prolonged and costly battle. Almost a year after the operation's start, Syrskyi and other Ukrainian leaders continue to cite heavy Russian losses as one of the incursion's chief achievements. In April, shortly after Russia announced it had recaptured nearly all of its territory in Kursk Oblast, the Ukrainian military put Russian losses at 25,200 killed and 36,200 injured. North Korea is also believed to have suffered up to 6,000 casualties, half of its entire contingent in the region. Elsewhere on the front, Moscow's forces continue to push forward with a fresh offensive launched in May. Russian troops are attempting to establish a beachhead in Sumy Oblast and, for the first time, penetrate Dnipropetrovsk Oblast in central-eastern Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Kyiv continues to resist Russian aggression, it also contends with Russias advantage in manpower and resources, as well as dynamic and at times volatile relations with its chief military backer, the U.S. Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian and Ukrainian negotiators are set to meet in Istanbul on Wednesday for a third round of talks since May, though little progress on ending their three-year-old war is expected as positions remain far apart. Despite the negotiations, Russian shelling of the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson killed a 66-year-old woman overnight, according to regional military governor Oleksandr Prokudin. Three people, including two 13-year-olds, were injured, he said on Telegram. The Ukrainian Air Force said Russia launched 71 drones and drone decoys during the night, of which 45 were intercepted or brought down using electronic countermeasures. The strikes targeted the regions of Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Kharkiv and Cherkasy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expectations remain low for a breakthrough in the Istanbul talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that detailed ceasefire talks are not on the agenda. Instead, the focus will be on the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war and abducted children, as well as preparations for a potential presidential-level meeting. "We need more momentum in the negotiations to end the war," Zelensky said, explaining his insistence on a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin, meanwhile, said that position papers previously exchanged by the two parties on possible peace frameworks would be discussed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that "major diplomatic work" would be needed to reach any agreement on a ceasefire. While Kiev insists on an unconditional ceasefire to allow for negotiations to end the conflict, Russia has been sticking to its maximum demands, including the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the eastern regions Moscow illegally annexed. Ukraine and Russia began holding direct talks for the first time in over three years in May. So far, the negotiations have resulted in a large-scale exchange of prisoners of war, with soldiers under the age of 25 and severely wounded combatants released most recently. The Russian delegation is again to be led by presidential adviser and former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky, according to the Kremlin. The Ukrainian team is set to be led by former defence minister Rustem Umerov, who has since been appointed head of the National Security and Defence Council. Suspilne has reported that the next round of talks between Russia and Ukraine is scheduled to start at 19:00 on 23 July in Istanbul, Turkiye. Source: Suspilne, citing a source in the Presidents Office; Russian media outlet Interfax Details: At 12:00 it was reported that the Ukrainian delegation had left for Turkiye. Ukrainska Pravda sources have also confirmed that the Ukrainian delegation is on its way to the negotiating venue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interfax also reported that the Russian delegation has departed for Istanbul for the talks. Ukrainska Pravda has asked the Office of the President to comment. Background: It was previously reported that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had approved the members of the Ukrainian delegation that will attend the talks in Istanbul on 23 July. Rustem Umierov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, has been appointed head of the delegation, which includes representatives of the presidential administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the armed forces, the Security Service of Ukraine, Defence Intelligence, the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) and other bodies. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Four Russian military planes were detected flying near the coast of Alaska on Tuesday, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said, marking the latest in a string of sightings in recent months. The planes were not considered a threat, as Russian activity in that airspace happens regularly, according to the military command. However, all four are technically categorized as combat aircraft, with two military fighter jets and two strategic bombers included in the group, Capt. Rebecca Garand, a NORAD spokesperson, told CBS News. The aircraft flew through a section of international airspace called the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), which is a designated area just outside of U.S. and Canadian sovereign space that both countries surveil closely for national security reasons. Aircraft are also expected to identify themselves when entering this region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NORAD said it tracked the Russian planes after detecting them and confirmed that they remained in international airspace. The command dispatched a crew of its own jets to intercept and escort each aircraft out of the area, an operation that took about three hours, according to Garand. All four planes were inside the zone together for about 50 minutes, the spokesperson said. "NORAD employs a layered defense network of satellites, ground-based and airborne radars and fighter aircraft to detect and track aircraft and inform appropriate actions," the military command says, adding that it "remains ready to employ a number of response options in defense of North America." Military officials in the U.S. have reported the presence of Russian planes in the ADIZ a handful of times already since the beginning of the year. In April, NORAD said the command had detected Russian warplanes flying off the coast of Alaska, within the bounds of the defense identification zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Less than three months earlier, the U.S. and Canada scrambled fighter jets to follow Russian warplanes seen over the Arctic, in an incident that drew some scrutiny as the region became a source of increasing geopolitical tension. The U.S. military said it later dispatched two F-16 fighter jets from Alaska to Greenland, to "forward posture NORAD presence in the Arctic." In September 2024, NORAD posted dramatic video of a Russian fighter jet flying "within just a few feet" of NORAD aircraft off the coast of Alaska. At the time, a U.S. general said "the conduct of one Russian Su-35 was unsafe, unprofessional, and endangered all." Two months before that incident, the U.S. military said it intercepted four Russian and Chinese bombers in international airspace off the Alaskan coast. Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Judge orders Kilmar Abrego Garcia's release, 2nd judge limits ICE from immediately detaining him Editor's note: This story was updated to include a statement from Ukrainian Railways and President Volodymyr Zelensky. At least two civilians were killed and 30 others, including children, were injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine over the past 24 hours, regional authorities reported on July 23. Russia launched 71 attack drones and decoy drones from multiple directions overnight, the Ukrainian Air Force reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Air defenses shot down 27 drones in the northern, eastern, and central regions. An additional 18 drones were lost or intercepted by electronic warfare. In Sumy Oblast, one person was killed and 12 others injured as a result of widespread Russian drone and artillery attacks against the Sumy, Mykolaivka, and Seredyna-Buda communities. Residential buildings, a school, a hospital, administrative offices, shops, and vehicles were damaged, authorities said. Power outages were reported in several areas after hits on energy infrastructure. Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) confirmed later that its energy infrastructure in Sumy and Poltava oblasts came under direct attack by Russian drones overnight. While some facilities were damaged, power supply has already been restored on most lines, and repair work continues on others. No casualties were reported, and train traffic remains on schedule, the company said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to President Volodymyr Zelensky, more than 220,000 customers, representing "hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian families" in Sumy Oblast, were left without electricity due to Russian attacks against infrastructure. In Kharkiv Oblast, five people were injured in drone and missile attacks on Kharkiv city, Izium, Kupiansk, and Velykyi Burluk. Explosions damaged houses, a post office, a medical base, and commercial infrastructure, including vehicles and a warehouse, Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported. In Kherson Oblast, one person was killed and nine others injured, including two children who suffered blast injuries from a drone strike in the village of Zorivka, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. Russian forces targeted over 30 settlements with drones and artillery, damaging residential buildings, apartment blocks, a car, and critical infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Donetsk Oblast, four people were injured during shelling and drone attacks across the Kramatorsk, Pokrovsk, and Bakhmut districts. Strikes damaged dozens of houses, administrative buildings, vehicles, and utility lines in several communities, Governor Vadym Filashkin said. Read also: We know how to stand up for our rights Ukrainians protest law threatening anti-corruption institutions Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation, has commented following talks in Turkiye on 23 July that the positions of Ukraine and the Russian Federation as set out in the two countries memoranda are "quite far apart from each other". Source: Latvia-based Russian media outlet Meduza, citing Medinsky Details: Medinsky noted that the stances outlined in the peace memoranda that the parties have exchanged are "quite far apart from each other". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have agreed to continue to engage, both at the delegation level and, we hope, at the level of working groups," he said. He also claimed that one point that was agreed on has yet to be completely fulfilled by Ukraine in that not all the residents of Russias Kursk Oblast "evacuated by the Armed Forces of Ukraine" have returned home. Medinsky also confirmed that "sanitary exchanges" in which both sides hand over seriously wounded individuals directly on the front line will continue, and he addressed the issue of the return of deported children to Ukraine. Russia has apparently "fully processed" the complete list of 339 surnames of Ukrainian children who were removed from Ukrainian territory, and some of the children have already returned. "Work is ongoing" with regard to the rest, Medinsky noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Ukraine has proposed holding a leaders meeting by the end of August that would be attended by Turkish President Recep Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Russia and Ukraine discussed further prisoner swaps on Wednesday at a brief session of peace talks in Istanbul, but the sides remained far apart on ceasefire terms and a possible meeting of their leaders. "We have progress on the humanitarian track, with no progress on a cessation of hostilities," Ukraine's chief delegate Rustem Umerov said after talks that lasted just 40 minutes. He said Ukraine had proposed a meeting before the end of August between Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He added: "By agreeing to this proposal, Russia can clearly demonstrate its constructive approach." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's chief delegate Vladimir Medinsky said the point of a leaders' meeting should be to sign an agreement, not to "discuss everything from scratch". He renewed Moscow's call for a series of short ceasefires of 24-48 hours to enable the retrieval of bodies. Ukraine says it wants an immediate and much longer ceasefire. The talks took place just over a week after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened heavy new sanctions on Russia and countries that buy its exports unless a peace deal was reached within 50 days. There was no sign of any progress towards that goal, although both sides said there was discussion of further humanitarian exchanges following a series of prisoner swaps, the latest of which took place on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medinsky said the negotiators agreed to exchange at least 1,200 more prisoners of war from each side, and Russia had offered to hand over another 3,000 Ukrainian bodies. He said Moscow was working through a list of 339 names of Ukrainian children that Kyiv accuses it of abducting. Russia denies that charge and says it has offered protection to children separated from their parents during the war. "Some of the children have already been returned back to Ukraine. Work is under way on the rest. If their legal parents, close relatives, representatives are found, these children will immediately return home," Medinsky said. Umerov said Kyiv was expecting "further progress" on POWs, adding: "We continue to insist on the release of civilians, including children." Ukrainian authorities say at least 19,000 children have been forcibly deported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SHORTEST TALKS YET Before the talks, the Kremlin had played down expectations, describing the two sides' positions as diametrically opposed and saying no one should expect miracles. At 40 minutes, the meeting was even shorter than the two sides' previous encounters on May 16 and June 2, which lasted a combined total of under three hours. Oleksandr Bevz, a member of the Ukrainian delegation, said Kyiv had proposed a Putin-Zelenskiy meeting in August because that would fall within the deadline set by Trump for a deal. Putin turned down a previous challenge from Zelenskiy to meet in person and has said he does not see him as a legitimate leader because Ukraine, which is under martial law, did not hold new elections when Zelenskiy's five-year mandate expired last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has patched up relations with Zelenskiy after a public row with him at the White House in February, and has lately expressed growing frustration with Putin. Three sources close to the Kremlin told Reuters last week that Putin, unfazed by Trump's ultimatum, would keep fighting in Ukraine until the West engaged on his terms for peace, and that his territorial demands may widen as Russian forces advance. (Additional reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever and Tuvan Gumrukcu in Ankara; Olena Harmash in Kyiv; Yuliia Dysa in Warsaw; Dmitry Antonov, Anton Kolodyazhnyy and Anastasia Lyrchikova in Moscow; Filipp Lebedev in London; Writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by David Gregorio) Dnipropetrovsk Oblast has come under another nighttime drone attack. Strikes have been recorded in the city of Kryvyi Rih, fires have broken out and residential buildings, a private business, an industrial facility and a school have been damaged. Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "Last night, the oblast endured another drone attack. Air Command reported that eight drones had been downed by the defenders of the sky. However, strikes were also recorded. A house was partially destroyed and four more were damaged in Kryvyi Rih. A disused building, a private business and solar panels caught fire. The fire was extinguished. An industrial facility was also damaged." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The Synelnykove district was also affected. A farm was hit and agricultural machinery (tractors and combine harvesters) was damaged there. In addition, a fire broke out and a shop, outpatient clinic, gym, school, cultural institution and office building were damaged due to the Russian strike. The Russians shelled the Nikopol district with heavy artillery, including the Marhanets and Pokrovske hromadas. Two houses were damaged there. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.] Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A Dutch court overturned seizure orders on Russian energy giant Gazprom's local assets, which had been imposed following lawsuits filed by two Ukrainian companies, Reuters reported on July 22, citing a published ruling on the court's website. Ukraine has actively pursued legal action in international courts to hold Russia accountable for its crimes in Ukraine. This includes efforts by Ukrainian companies to seek compensation through the courts for damages caused by Russian aggression. Some of these cases have succeeded. Ukraine's state energy company Naftogaz previously won a case against Russian Gazprom, and now seeks $6.9 billion in arbitration for assets Russia seized in Crimea after its 2014 occupation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Reuters, the recent Dutch court ruling said that seizing Gazprom's assets could violate the principle of state immunity, which means that a foreign state cannot be taken to court in another country without its consent. Gazprom's assets were seized following separate lawsuits by two Ukrainian agricultural companies, Slavutich-Invest and Zhniva, as they sought compensation for losses related to Russia's war in Ukraine. The Ukrainian companies' lawsuits led to the September 2024 seizure of the Russian energy giant's shares in local gas producers in the Netherlands Wintershall Noordzee and Gazprom International Projects B.V., Reuters reports. Previously in March 2024, Gazprom had attempted to sell these assets, according to Ukrainian publication Unian. At that time, the initial price was set at 344 million euros ($370 million) for a 50% stake in European company Wintershall Noordzee and 100% of subsidiary Gazprom International UK Limited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the Group of Seven countries immobilized roughly $300 billion in Russian sovereign assets at the onset of the full-scale war in 2022, later funneling the windfall profits to Ukraine's reconstruction and defense. According to current Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal, who previously served as Prime Minister, Ukraine has received more than $18.5 billion from frozen Russian assets this year, directing the funds toward rapid recovery projects. Read also: We all hear what society is saying Zelensky vows anti-corruption plan within 2 weeks amid backlash over controversial bill 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 Kherson Oblast on 23 July, killing two men and injuring two other people. Source: Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office Details: The investigation shows that Russian troops launched a drone attack on a car as it was travelling on a dirt road between the villages of Nezlamne and Romashkove in the Kherson district on the morning of 23 July. The attack killed two men aged 44 and 45 and injured an 83-year-old woman and a 58-year-old man, who were hospitalised with injuries of varying degrees of severity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Prosecutor's General Office has launched a pre-trial investigation under Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine violation of the laws and customs of war, combined with premeditated murder. Previously: A 66-year-old woman was killed and a man and two children aged 13 were seriously injured in a Russian attack on Kherson and the village of Zoryvka in Kherson Oblast. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! One person has been injured and a market caught fire due to a Russian drone attack on the village of Velykyi Burluk in Kharkiv Oblast on the evening of 22 July. Source: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Quote: "The Russians conducted a drone strike on a market in the village of Velykyi Burluk in the Kupiansk district on the evening of 22 July. The attack caused a fire in retail units covering an area of around 500 sq m. Firefighters extinguished it." Firefighter extinguishing fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Details: A post office building and other trade facilities were also damaged. Fire caused by the Russian attack Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine A woman injured in the attack was diagnosed with an acute stress reaction. Market on fire Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A 66-year-old woman has been killed and two 13-year-old children and a man seriously injured in a Russian attack on the city of Kherson and the village of Zoryvka in Kherson Oblast. Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration; Kherson Oblast Military Administration Quote: "A 66-year-old woman from Kherson suffered fatal injuries in an enemy attack." Details: Prokudin expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, a 48-year-old man was injured in the nighttime drone attack on Kherson. He was diagnosed with blast injuries and multiple shrapnel wounds to the torso and limbs. He was hospitalised and is now under medical supervision. On the night of the attack, the Russians also targeted the village of Zorivka in the Bilozerska hromada, where a drone strike injured two 13-year-old children a boy and a girl. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.] They sustained blast injuries, concussion and closed head injuries. An ambulance crew provided the children with necessary medical treatment at the scene. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russian forces launched a drone strike on an energy facility belonging to Sumyoblenergo, the regional power distribution company in Sumy Oblast, on the night of 22-23 July. Source: Ukraines Ministry of Energy Details: Energy equipment was damaged as a result of the attack, and the power supply is restricted for some consumers at present. The Energy Ministry says power engineers are doing all they can to restore electricity to homes in the city and the oblast as quickly as possible. Previously: On the night of 18-19 July, Russian forces attacked Pavlohrad with various types of weapons, damaging industrial facilities in the city. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is in his own words demanding the Oklahoma Supreme Court lift a stay that prevents Walters agency from moving forward with the purchase of thousands of Bibles for public school classrooms. In a court filing on Tuesday, July 22, Walters said it is essential that the Oklahoma State Department of Education be authorized to move forward with securing and purchasing curricular materials in accordance with the standards approved by both the State Board of Education and the Oklahoma Senate. Walters had pledged to have Bibles in every classroom by fall, and a news release issued by his office said he remains committed to that effort. He has not, however, said how that will happen in the face of the state Supreme Court order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court halted the purchases amid a lawsuit challenging Walters' June 2024 mandate requiring the Bible to be taught in public schools. The plaintiffs in that case known as Walke v. Walters sued Walters, the state Education Department, the state Board of Education and the state Office of Management and Enterprise Services on Oct. 17 over the mandate and the attempts to purchase Bibles with public money. On March 10, the Oklahoma Supreme Court stayed the state Education Departments's second request for proposals to obtain Bibles and another RFP already issued for Bible-based curriculum for Oklahoma classrooms. Bible lawsuit has seen little movement since March Since March, there has been little public movement in the lawsuit. Jacquelyne Phelps, interim general counsel for the state Education Department, filed a motion on June 18 requesting a status update. The court has not responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing July 22 was the first in the case since then. It notes the approval of new social studies academic standards and cites that as a primary reason the court should allow for the purchase of the Bibles. The process by which those standards were passed, however, has drawn two separate lawsuits, which are also in the Oklahoma Supreme Court. In the June court filing, Phelps wrote time is of the essence because for the state agency to be adequately prepared for the impending 2025-2026 school year, OSDE must be able to move forward with selecting appropriate instructional materials. The Oklahoma State Textbook Committee, under the state agencys purview, is in the process of considering which materials to approve. Any curriculum approved by that committee likely wouldnt be in state classrooms until the 2026-27 school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters' agency has favored a specific edition of the Bible to distribute to Oklahoma classrooms. Twice, the agency has created RFPs to purchase 55,000 Bibles that appeared to be tailored to county music artist Lee Greenwoods "God Bless the USA" edition, which has been endorsed by President Donald Trump. That Bible includes all the non-biblical documents the U.S. Constitution, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights listed on the original RFPs. Past proposals to buy Bibles for Oklahoma classrooms issued by the Oklahoma State Department of Education appear to be tailored toward the "God Bless the USA" Bible endorsed by President Donald Trump. Walters 'demand' to court latest headline-grabbing move Walters' request to resume using taxpayer money to buy Bibles comes ahead of the monthly meeting of the Oklahoma State Board of Education. Its meeting Thursday, July 24, will be the final regular board meeting before school starts across Oklahoma in August. Walters, as superintendent, chairs the board. The meeting agenda does not mention any specific items Walters' plans to discuss. One subject that could come up is Walters recent directive that Oklahoma schools provide free lunches for students. Legislators have said Walters doesnt have the authority to issue such a mandate, and multiple district superintendents said Walters has a lack of understanding about how school finances work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another potential subject for discussion could be Walters announcement earlier in July that his agency would partner with PragerU a politically conservative nonprofit that is not a university to develop an assessment for teachers relocating from states with progressive education policies, such as California and New York, seeking certification to teach in Oklahoma schools. State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is "demanding" the Oklahoma Supreme Court lift a stay that is preventing him from using taxpayer money to buy so-called "Trump Bibles." Walters has said those teachers would be required to take an assessment, which the agency would develop in collaboration with PragerU, that would evaluate them on their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, their understanding of American exceptionalism, and their grasp of fundamental biological differences between boys and girls. In his latest move, Walters said that his agency would partner with an Arizona-based online private school to teach Oklahoma children. Walters said the school, the American Virtual Academy, is focused on promoting American principles rather than pushing a liberal agenda that has proven to be anti-American, antisemitic and anti-family. On its website, the school says its curriculum is "dedicated to re-establishing core American values." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A charter school in Arizona run by American Virtual Academy has been targeted for closure by the Arizona Charter Board, according to reporting by Phoenix television station KPNX. The board noted the school received "D" letter grades for three consecutive years. The boards decision is being appealed. A spokeswoman for Walters has said the state Board of Education does not need to approve the partnership, although its unclear if that is the case. Walters said American Virtual Academy is seeking approval to participate in Oklahomas Parental Choice Tax Credit program, but a change in that program made by the Legislature in 2024 appears to make only private schools in Oklahoma eligible for funds from that program. A spokeswoman for the Tax Commission didnt immediately return a message left Wednesday, July 23. The schools founder, Damian Creamer, touted the deal with Walters and the Oklahoma agency on social media, calling it a huge win. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters asks Oklahoma Supreme Court to allow OSDE to buy Bibles Ryan Widmer, convicted of murder in the 2008 drowning of his wife, will have a parole hearing July 30. It's the first time he's been eligible for parole since he was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison in 2011. The death of Widmer's wife, Sarah, and his ensuing three murder trials captured national attention for years. The case was controversial. Widmer, now 44 years old, and his supporters say he was wrongly convicted, while prosecutors said he drowned his wife in the bathtub and staged the scene before first responders arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Widmer's parole hearing is not open to the public and his request will not be granted or denied that day. It could take around two weeks for the Ohio Parole Board to announce its decision. He'll appear in front of the parole board virtually, his lawyer Michele Berry-Godsey told The Enquirer. No supporters or family members are allowed to attend. Here's what to know about Widmer and his case. Who is Ryan Widmer? Widmer and his wife lived in Hamilton Township, Ohio, and were married four months before she died on Aug. 11, 2008. That night, Widmer called 911 to report that Sarah, a 24-year-old dental hygienist, had drowned in the bathtub at their suburban Cincinnati home. A Warren County sheriff's deputy was the first person to arrive at the home. Court documents say Sarah had no pulse but was warm to the touch, and was lying naked on the floor in the couple's bedroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paramedics tried to resuscitate her and rushed her to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Widmer, who had no prior history of violence, gave different accounts of how he found Sarah, according to court documents. He told a nurse at the hospital that he found Sarah in the bathtub face up, not breathing. But he later told investigators he found her face down in the water. The bathroom floor was dry, the bathtub was mostly dry and the bedroom floor, where Sarah was lying, was dry. Her body was dry, but her hair was damp. Prosecutors said Widmer staged the scene. Widmer was found guilty at his first trial, but the conviction was overturned because of juror tampering. A second trial ended in a hung jury. Widmer was convicted of murder at his third trial in 2011, and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He never testified at any of his three trials. Widmer is also the father of a roughly 15-year-old boy, according to former Enquirer reporter Janice Hisle's book about the case, "Submerged: Ryan Widmer, his drowned bride and the justice system." In an article on Medium, Hisle said Widmer and a new woman became romantically involved after his first trial, and she gave birth to their son after his second trial. Supporters believe Sarah died from undiagnosed condition Widmer has always said he was innocent in his wife's death. His family and supporters believe Sarah may have had a disorder that caused a sudden heart attack or seizure while she was in the bathtub, a hypothesis first raised by a defense expert. Widmer wrote in documents for his lawyers that on the night of her death, Sarah walked upstairs to take a bath on her tippy toes, which is how she often walked. He also said she suffered from headaches and bouts of sudden sleepiness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that information wasn't used in the trials. Some of Widmer's supporters believe Sarah might have had a genetic disorder, such as Long QT Syndrome type 7, a condition that can cause irregular heartbeats. Widmer's family has called for DNA testing of Sarah's remains to rule out a disorder. A judge denied those requests. In 2018, Widmer's case was featured in an episode of the true crime show, "Reasonable Doubt." The show's investigators believed Widmer lied to police the night of Sarah's death, but dismissed some of the prosecution's evidence as "junk science." Prosecutors had argued that marks inside the couple's bathtub showed there had been a struggle, but a forensic expert on the show said there was no way to prove that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Widmer told investigators on "Reasonable Doubt" he found Sarah lying face up in the bathtub, contradicting what he had told police. Widmer's supporters gathered at the Warren County Courthouse in 2018. What's the latest update on Ryan Widmer's case? A federal appeals court upheld Widmers conviction in May, siding with a lower court's decision to deny his habeas corpus petition. In his petition, Widmer raised several issues in his case, including evidence that the lead detective lied about his background and qualifications when he applied for his job with Hamilton Township police. But the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the detective's lying "was immaterial" to the case. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Who is Ryan Widmer? Man convicted of 2008 bathtub murder up for parole (FOX40.COM) A 30-year-old Sacramento man was found guilty of producing and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), resulting in a 25-year sentence on Monday, according to the U.S Department of Justice. The DOJ said that court documents show that Jayson Fernandez Butay lied about his identity on Snapchat to a 15-year-old girl in Finland and convinced her to send him naked photos of herself. Video Above: More than 200 suspected child sex abuse offenders arrested Once the photos were sent, he threatened the girl with sending the images to her family and friends, unless she sent sexually explicit videos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evidence also found that Butay produced child sexual abuse material with other underage victims, including an unidentified 9-year-old girl. Through the execution of a search warrant, law enforcement agents seized hundreds of images and videos from Butays digital devices in his home that showed the sexual exploitation of children and infants. Man convicted on multiple counts of child molestation This investigation highlights the serious threat sextortionists pose to children who use popular messaging and social media apps, said FBI Sacramento Field Office Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel. Online anonymity combined with the natural inexperience of youth creates a dangerous environment that parents must better understand and monitor. The FBI works closely with our law enforcement partners to identify and bring these predators to justice. We urge anyone who has been targeted or victimized to come forward. You are not alone we will help you. Advertisement 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. In our brave new world of smart appliances and internet-connected everything (why would I want my dryer linked to WiFi?), a lot of things are much more convenient. Unfortunately, one thing that's become so much easier is exploiting those interconnected widgets for surveillance and control. In California, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) has been caught monitoring people's electricity usage and reporting allegedly suspiciously high consumption to the cops. This isn't even the creepiest use of remote snooping on electricity usage. Snooping for Marijuana Farms and Finding Electric Wheelchairs "For a decade, the Sacramento Municipal Utilities District (SMUD) has been searching through all of its customers' energy data, and passed on more than 33,000 tips about supposedly 'high' usage households to police," according to Hudson Hongo and Adam Schwartz of the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF). In the case of one man, as a result of a tip to police, "sheriff's deputies showed up unannounced at his home, falsely accused him of growing cannabis based on an erroneous SMUD tip, demanded entry for a search, and threatened him with arrest when he refused." The man in that case, Alfonso Nguyen, uses more electricity than some other SMUD customers because he has a spinal injury and requires an electric wheelchair that he charges at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The big concern for police is sniffing out illicit indoor marijuana farms. That seems like an odd preoccupation given that marijuana consumption and cultivation are both legal in California. Sacramento residents are allowed to grow up to six cannabis plants at home. But not everybody bothers to jump through the bureaucratic hoops required to get licensed for larger operations. Some just continue to do it the old-fashioned way: under grow-lamps in the garage. Why police would particularly care is an open question, but they care enough to deputize the local electricity utility into snitching on people using "a lot" of electricity, which might indicate a grow operation. Adding to the peril for anybody who turns on the air conditioning from time to time is that what constitutes "a lot" of electricity is a moving target. Hongo and Schwartz note that "the threshold of so-called 'suspicion' has steadily dropped, from 7,000 kWh per month in 2014 to just 2,800 kWh a month in 2023." Obviously, the lower the threshold, the more likely that people with a variety of needs for electricity will get their doors kicked in by cops looking for marijuana farms. 'Smart' Electric Meters Are Snoops In a brief filed last week in the California courts as part of an ongoing legal challenge to SMUD's snitching, EFF points out that SMUD's snoopy practices have been enabled by its rollout of high-tech "smart meters" to almost all of its customers. "Unlike their analog predecessors, smart meters scoop up energy usage data continuously, in 15-minute increments, and transmit this data to SMUD wirelessly every few hours. SMUD uses the 'interval data' from the smart meters to discern what might be happening inside its customers' homes." Among the uses of this data, "SMUD analysts have actively collaborated with law enforcementand especially the Sacramento Police Departmentby providing lists, opinions, and tips in a hunt for SMUD customers who might be growing cannabis." Or might not, if analysts have jumped to the wrong conclusions about why people are using electricity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SMUD supplies the information in response to police requestsoften for whole zip codes, including thousands of customers at a time. It's an ongoing electronic search of people's homes that can result in raids if cops and power company employees think somebody's consumption of electricity is unusual. Police and SMUD decided that Asians are especially likely to run grow operations. Correspondence acquired by EFF shows them targeting homes with high usage owned by people with Asian last names. In 2022, this resulted in a lawsuit against Sacramento and Sacramento Municipal Utility District over such power-usage-based searches of people's homes. The current brief is in furtherance of that court case. At that time, "86% of assessments done by Sacramento Police were against Asians between 2017 and 2019, even though Asians represent only 18% of Sacramento residents," according to The Sacramento Bee. "We value the protection of our customers['] private data and work hard to protect that personal data," SMUD officials told the Sacramento Bee. "But under the law, we are required to provide electricity usage data to law enforcement upon request and in accordance with their specific investigation." Of course, the smart meters used by SMUD and many other utilities mean that detailed electricity usage information is just there for the asking. So, the police ask and go in search of marijuana farms. Often, they find fish tanks, medical devices, and people mining cryptocurrency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This data sharing and surveillance is illegal," EFF objects in its brief. "Article I, 13 of the California Constitution prohibits unreasonable searches. SMUD and law enforcement's home energy surveillance program is an unreasonable search." The group also objects that the data sharing violates a state law that "that bars public utilities from disclosing customers' electrical consumption information except in narrow circumstances." Whether the courts agree that monitoring and interpreting people's power usage for law-enforcement purposes constitutes an illegal search is yet to be seen. But snooping into our homes isn't the only mischief smart devices can be put to. They can also be used to control electricity consumption. Smart Devices Can Remotely Control Your Life Last year, The Washington Post's Nicolas Rivero and Niko Kommenda reported that on one hot day in Texas, when the grid operator asked people to restrict their power consumption, "Ada Garcia, a Houston homeowner, didn't have to touch her thermostat to pitch in. Her utility company remotely shut off her air conditioner nine times that day as part of a power-saving strategy that is already propping up grids around the country as they deal with booming demand and a growing share of unpredictable wind and solar power." Such power-saving strategies have become common across the country as part of programs that people join in return for lower bills. They let utilities shut off electric vehicle chargers and other devices in addition to air conditioning. That said, not everybody realizes that's what they signed up for. They're often surprised to see their thermostats adjusted from afar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Power companies didn't start recruiting individuals until internet-connected thermostats and appliances made it possible to reach into thousands of residential customers' homes and automatically track and change the way they use energy," add Rivero and Kommenda. So, check the fine print when you have those smart devices installed if you don't care to have your life monitored and managed. And maybe hook your grow lights up to a solar generator and keep them entirely off the grid and out of sight of snoops. The post Sacramento Uses Smart Electric Meters To Spy on Residents appeared first on Reason.com. If New Yorkers needed any more proof that Zohran Mamdani would be a disaster for the Big Apple, the news that hes been comparing notes with Sadiq Khan is surely it. Following Mamdanis shock victory in the Democratic mayoral primary a few weeks ago, in which the self-identified socialist triumphed over disgraced former governor Andrew Cuomo, he has reportedly been in touch with a number of progressive mayors, including Londons. Khans advice? Move to the centre, apparently. Having won the primary promising rent freezes and free buses, Mamdani needs now to reassure the moderates, just as Khan did in 2016, when he trounced his Left-wing challengers before taking the fight to Tory candidate Zac Goldsmith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Say what you will about Khan, he has managed to win three elections, albeit in a city that has been a one-party state for some time. Beyond that, he should be keeping his advice to himself, given Calamity Khan has been a disaster for London on every conceivable front. Out-of-control knife crime. The effective decriminalisation of petty theft. Anti-social behaviour apparently becoming mandatory. The inability to easily procure a pint past 11pm on a weekday, even in central London, all while our dearly departed night tsar pocketed 132,000 a year. If this sounds like fun to you, NYC, youre welcome to it. Khan might not be a Leftist in the Mamdani or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez mould, but his tenure in London has shown us that his supposed centrism can be just as damaging to a great city. While he struggles to handle the fundamentals, from violent crime to building houses to keeping Londons nightlife alive, he levies punishing Ulez fines against those who cant afford newer, greener cars, or engages in ostentatious beefs with Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His is the politics of virtue-signalling taken to an insulting degree. You might be struggling to pay your rent, but at least we have a mayor who bangs on endlessly about inclusion. You might fear for your sons life as he roams your estate, but at least our Sadiq has told him to call out his maaates if they say anything sexist. When all else fails, we are instructed to shelve all of our piddling concerns and simply bask in the warm feeling of being ruled over by Londons first Muslim mayor, as if Khans faith has anything to do with anything. The crank wing of the Maga crowd were typically hysterical when Mamdani who is also Muslim won. Republican representative Marjorie Taylor Green shared an AI image of the Statue of Liberty draped in a burka just as hard-Rightists over here absurdly suggest that Khan, who has never seen a Pride march he didnt want to join, is some kind of crypto-Islamist. To be honest, having lived in Khans London for all of his reign, Id rather go full-blown Sharia than have to sit through another of those insufferable New Years Eve fireworks displays, celebrating diversity and taking potshots at Brexit. Give me a caliph over a woke troll any day. Who knows? A few severed hands later, shoplifting might finally start getting under control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mamdani-Khan confab is yet another reminder of what a mess so-called progressives of various hues seem intent on making of our respective metropolises. The sooner New Yorkers and Londoners alike wake up to this, the sooner we can make our cities great again. 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. Sir Sadiq Khan shared advice with Zohran Mamdani after the socialist Democrat stormed to victory to become the Democratic nomination for New York mayor. Mr Mamdani, 33, beat Andrew Cuomo in June after carrying out a social media campaign deemed so successful it was praised by some of President Donald Trumps supporters. Since his shock victory, Mr Mamdani and Sir Sadiq have spoken over the phone, a source close to the candidates campaign told The Telegraph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zohran has been in touch with a number of progressive mayors, including Michelle Wu in Boston and Sadiq Khan, the source said. The phone call with Sir Sadiq was warm and collegial and Mayor Khan had some words of advice, they said, but the pair did not talk strategy. Sources close to Sir Sadiq suggested that Mr Mamdani should shift to the centre to broaden his appeal. Sir Sadiq, who clinched a historic third term last year, initially beat Zac Gold, the Conservative candidate, in 2016 by trouncing his Labour rivals on the Left and then moving towards the centre. Sadiq Khan visited New York in 2022 to promote London tourism - Pacific Press/Getty Images Mr Mamdani secured the nomination with promises to make New York more affordable for residents, including rent freezes and launching city-run supermarkets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will now face Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate, as well as Eric Adams, the incumbent mayor, and Mr Cuomo, who are both running as independents in a crowded field. Mr Mamdani, who has been called a communist lunatic by Mr Trump, has been accused by his critics of posing a danger to the most populous city in the US. During his primary campaign, Mr Mamdani distanced himself from some of his most controversial statements, including past support for defunding the police. A source in Londons City Hall told The Times: The primary race is very different from the [mayoral election]. He needs to moderate or he could lose the more centrist Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a source close to Mr Mamdanis campaign told The Telegraph: Zohran won by a significant margin, this wasnt a close race, it was an affirmation that the values he ran on are something that resonate with New Yorkers and they feel really committed to the progressive values he ran his campaign on. The source added that Sir Sadiq has a unique set of experiences as the only Muslim mayor of a Western city, which Mr Mamdani will likely speak to the Labour politician about if he is elected. While they share some similarities, Mr Mamdanis policies skew more progressive than those of Sir Sadiq. During his 2016 campaign, the Labour politician pledged to raise the London living wage, a promise he kept within months of taking office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Mamdani also promised to boost the New York City minimum wage, vowing to increase it to $16.50-per-hour and almost double it to $30-per-hour by 2030. Both politicians have also campaigned on the promise to build more affordable housing. Mr Mamdani has promised to freeze rent and spend $100bn building 200,000 units of affordable homes over the next 10 years. During his campaign last year, Sir Sadiq committed to building 40,000 new council homes by the end of the decade. While Mr Mamdani has pledged to deliver free buses in New York City, Sir Sadiq has frozen bus fares six times since he was elected in 2016. 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. SALINE COUNTY, Ark. Saline County officials said a grant from the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program will provide for the next phase of restoring the courthouse. The $137,000 grant will address exterior and structural issues. Officials said exterior bricks and mortar need to be repaired, as does the bell tower structure. Saline County set for Old River Bridge ribbon-cutting A portion of the funding will also provide for a fire suppression system, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant was the Historic Preservations County Courthouse Restoration Grant program, the same program that had provided for previous restoration actions for the 1902 structure. Previous actions included a roof replacement, repainting exterior wood and the currently in-process replacement of the 20-year-old electrical box system on the courthouse lawn. Saline County Courthouse (courtesy Saline County) Saline County Courthouse (courtesy Saline County) Saline County Courthouse (courtesy Saline County) Officials stated that the courthouse was built in 1902 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. It continues to serve as an active center for county government and a focal point of downtown Benton. Construction resumes on Southwest Trail in Saline County after vandalism Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are so grateful to be able to benefit from these grant dollars and see the tremendous steps we have been able to achieve through refurbishment and preservation, said Saline County Judge Matt Brumley. Our commitment in preserving our 123-year-old courthouse allows us to show off one of the most historic and beautiful buildings in the 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 KARK. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) A native of San Angelo, Texas, and a 2020 Lakeview High School graduate serves with the U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (USNMRTC) in Rota, Spain. According to a press release, Tyler Franks is a Petty Officer 2nd Class for the U.S. Navy. Franks claims that the skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those values in San Angelo. Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Franks, a native of San Angelo, Texas, serves with U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (USNMRTC) Rota, Spain. Growing up in San Angelo taught me the value of hard work, humility and community, Franks said. In a town where people look out for one another, I learned early on the importance of accountability, treating others with respect and staying grounded. These lessons have stayed with me throughout my naval career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Franks joined the Navy five years ago and now serves as a personal specialist. I joined the Navy to pursue greater opportunities and to fulfill a longstanding desire to serve my country, Franks said. From a young age, I felt a strong sense of duty, and the Navy provided a meaningful way to turn that aspiration into reality. It has also offered me a structured path to grow professionally as an adult. Franks favorite aspect of being a personnel specialist in the Navy is knowing that his work directly supports sailors readiness and quality of life. Whether its ensuring accurate pay, processing orders or managing critical personnel actions, I take pride in being a reliable resource sailors can count on so they can continue to support the mission, said Franks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Navy officials, NMRTCs mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. Franks takes pride in serving America through military service and has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during his time serving in the military. One of my proudest accomplishments in the Navy has been the opportunity to see the world through two deployments, each broadening my perspective culturally and sharpening my sense of purpose, Franks said. Most notably, having a direct impact during operations in the Middle East, specifically supporting efforts related to the Houthi Rebel conflict, which reinforced the real-world significance of our mission and the role I play in advancing national security. Franks believes that being part of the military has added purpose, discipline and continued growth to his life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Serving in the Navy means being part of something bigger than myself, Franks added. It represents a life of purpose, discipline and continuous growth. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The San Diego Public Library (SDPL) is offering limited-edition library cards and special programming for San Diego Comic-Con, all for free. The new library card will be available starting on Comic-Con Preview Night on Wednesday at the SDPL booth at the San Diego Convention Center. The artwork on the card was designed by oil painter Sarah Wilkinson and depicts the link between imagination and reading in her distinctive, surrealist art style. Wilkinson will be at the SDPL booth on Friday to sign cards. The limited-edition Comic-Con library card was designed by Sarah Wilkinson. (San Diego Public Library) The library card will be available at all SDPL branches for patrons starting on Thursday. To get the limited-time design, you can sign up for a new library card or replace an existing one for free until the end of July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comic-Con library cards are only available on a first-come, first-served basis for a limited time. In partnership with Comic-Con International, SDPL is also hosting the 8th annual Comic-Con Conference for Educators and Librarians (CCEL) during all days of the convention from Wednesday through Sunday. The conference, which is open to the public, will focus on the role comics play to promote education and literacy for people of all ages. Space is limited and people interested in attending are advised to register in advance. For people attending SDCC in costumes, the Cosplay Repair Station at the San Diego Central Library will be fully stocked with your sewing needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From sewing machines and supplies to 3D printers, adhesives and more, cosplayers who need to fix or replace missing components of their costumes can venture to the IDEA Lab on the 4th floor to find creative solutions to their costuming mishaps. The Cosplay Repair Station will be open Thursday through Saturday between 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are not required. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Santa Fe man has been arrested on a charge of first-degree murder, according to court records filed Tuesday, but the details of the slaying remain unclear. Documents detailing the incident and the probable cause for the charge against 66-year-old Robert Valdez had not been delivered to Santa Fe County Magistrate Court on Tuesday, according to the Court Clerk's Office, and Santa Fe police had not provided any information about the homicide by Tuesday evening including the name of the person killed and the circumstances surrounding the incident. An online court database indicates the homicide occurred Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Valdez faces a charge of first-degree murder, according to records provided by Magistrate Court. He was booked into the Santa Fe County jail early Tuesday, an online jail log shows. His address is listed in court records as a residence in the Hopewell-Mann neighborhood. Valdez has faced a traffic violation and a civil domestic violence petition in the past, but he has no criminal record in New Mexico, court records indicate. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) Sazerac, parent company of Buffalo Trace Distillery, has filed a federal lawsuit against reported scammers posing as Buffalo Traces master distiller and selling rare bourbon. The person behind the account is still unknown, per court documents filed on July 16, but is believed to be in Kentucky. The accounts are under the name Harlen Davis Wheatley, who happens to be the long-time master distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well aware of the goodwill and extensive demand for products involving Buffalo Trace and Wheatley, Defendant is deliberately impersonating Wheatley on Facebook by using his name, persona, professional credibility, and association with Buffalo Trace and Sazerac to create a false sense of authenticity and credibility, which he uses to dupe prospective customers, Attorney Andrew Hagerman wrote. According to the suit, whoever runs the accounts has been served multiple cease and desist letters and has since removed any images of Wheatley. However, theyve been replaced with photos of a Louisville-based attorney. Its believed that the scammer has, or is posing to have, counterfeit, stolen, and otherwise unauthorized Pappy Van Winkle bottles. Because of the VAN WINKLE Products extreme success and reputation for high quality in the alcoholic beverage marketplace, the VAN WINKLE Mark is distinctive, well known, highly regarded, and recognized by consumers as identifying Sazeracs VAN WINKLE Products, Hagerman explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more of the latest Kentucky news According to Hagerman, after ignoring their demands to halt operations, the accounts owner went as far as to block the accounts being used to monitor the scammers activity. At Buffalo Trace Distillery, protecting the authenticity of our products and the trust of our consumers is of utmost importance, Wheatley told FOX 56 in a statement. We take the issue of counterfeit and fraud seriously and are actively pursuing measures to prevent bad actors from misleading our fans. This action marks another step in our ongoing efforts to combat fraud and support transparency and safety throughout the spirits industry. Sazerac, per court documents, requests compensatory damages, a court order restraining the scammers use or promotion of Sazerac brands, that the accounts be taken down, court costs, and other relief. Advertisement 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 56 News. WELLSBORO, Pa. (WETM) Pennsylvania State Representative Clint Owlett will be hosting a seminar during the Tioga County Fair to help seniors protect themselves from scams. The Scam Awareness Seminar for Seniors will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. during Senior Day at the Tioga County Fairgrounds located at 2258 Charleston Rd. in Wellsboro. The event will be co-hosted by First Citizens National Bank, C&N Bank, the PA Department of Banking and Securities and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Document shredding event to be held during Senior Expo in Bradford County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event has been put in place to help make seniors aware of different scam tactics that are being used to trick those who are vulnerable into giving away money. The seminar will also teach seniors how to protect themselves from these scams. Just when you think the scammers cant get any worse, they sink to new lows, usually preying on our senior citizens with the goal of stealing their savings and possibly their identities, Owlett said. This event aims to help people learn to protect themselves by outlining the tactics commonly used by scammers, what to look for and how to avoid them. Suicide Awareness 5K to take place in Wellsboro Those who are interested in participating in the seminar must register beforehand on Owletts website or by contacting his office in Wellsboro at 570-724-1390 or his office in Troy at 570-297-3045. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interested seniors are reminded that admission to the fair is free for those ages 62 and older until 5 p.m. on the day of the seminar. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EAST HARLEM, N.Y. (PIX11) Chronic homelessness and rampant, open drug use are among the notable issues that residents are voicing in East Harlem. Believe it or not, its gotten worse, one resident tells PIX11 News. More Local News Last week, PIX11 News profiled the Adams administrations newly announced efforts to clean up the so-called Hub of Heroin in the South Bronx. Now, viewers say they hope the Adams administration will perform the same massive cleanup effort involving increased police patrols, sanitation sweeps, and nonprofit social services outreach in East Harlem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locals noted the increased dangers of drugs, including synthetic marijuana and fentanyl. They are putting fentanyl in weed, in cocaine, said Frederick, an East Harlem resident. Frederick says the open drug use and lingering mental health crisis have negatively impacted the neighborhoods. Older people used to come outside and sit down in the cafe during the day. Drink a little coffee or something. Nobody wants to be out here no more. Ms. Rosario, another Harlem resident, expressed concerns over her safety. Sometimes I get scared when I go out. I have to watch my back all the time. We need more cops around here. I want the mayor to do more. A spokesperson for the mayor sent PIX11 News the full statement: Public safety is the prerequisite to prosperity, and just as we did at The Hub in the South Bronx, the Adams administration is committed to tackling the challenges facing East Harlem particularly around 125th and 116th Streets. Weve surged resources to increase sanitation sweeps, connected individuals struggling with addiction and homelessness to health and shelter services, cracked down on illegal vending, and begun addressing longstanding scaffolding issues. The NYPDs Quality-of-Life Division has conducted walkthroughs of the area to ensure that illegal activity is not allowed to persist. We remain committed to making sure this neighborhood is safe and feels safe for all who call it home. Advertisement 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. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The city of Lawrence Municipal Court announced on Wednesday that it is hosting its third annual School Supplies for Fines program over the course of the next month. According to the city, from July 23 to Aug. 23, those with outstanding traffic or parking tickets from the city will be able to donate school supplies in place of their fines. Kansas City man reunited with dog after more than a year apart Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program is designed to help local school children and families, along with those struggling to pay for their infractions. Participants are invited to bring $15 worth of new school supplies to the Lawrence Municipal Court from the approved supply list below. After dropping the supplies off with an itemized receipt, you will receive a $50 credit. The approved list includes: Pencil box Washable markers (thick; Classic 8-pack) 24-pack Crayola Crayons #2 Pencils Colored pencils Highlighters Scissors Spiral notebooks (wide or college rule) Shaving cream foam (unscented) Cotton balls Play doh (regular sized containers) Ziploc bags (gallon and quart size) Fragrance-free baby wipes Kleenex Refillable water bottles Plain white unwaxed paper plates (salad or dinner size) Backpacks Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the city, the donations will only apply to existing court fines, not potential future fines. Founder of Mean Mule Distilling Company dies in weekend motorcycle crash If you do not have a fine, you can choose to donate supplies on behalf of another persons account. However, it is important to note that downtown meter citations issued after Jan. 1 are excluded from this promotion. For more information, contact the municipal court at 785-832-6190. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MOUND CITY, Mo. Bryce Lane Schoonover was born July 21, 1963, to James and Faire (Drewes) Schoonover, of Mound City, Missouri. On Aug. 2, 1986, he married the love of his life, Patricia Lynn Hunziger, of Oregon, Missouri. They became the parents of three beautiful daughters, whom he loved and cherished. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Bryce enjoyed growing up working alongside his parents at Schoonover Oil Company, Inc., where he was the current owner/operator. He was an honest, upright and hard-working man who never met a stranger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was a member of the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City and a loyal soldier in the Lords army. The most important thing to him was his relationship with Jesus Christ. His main mission in life was to tell others about Gods plan of salvation through Him. And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. (1 John 5:11-12 NIV) Bryce passed away on his 62nd birthday, July 21, 2025, at a St. Joseph hospital after suffering a massive hemorrhagic stroke. He was preceded in death by his father, James; brother-in-law, Tommy Quick; and an unborn child and grandchild. In addition to his wife, Patty, he is survived by his daughters, Anna Statesel (James), Laura Lewis (Kolby) and Sarah Bridgman (Josh); mother, Faire; grandchildren, Evelynn Rose Statesel, Brylee Joy Lewis, and Henry Bryce and Ivy Louise Bridgman; siblings, Jon Schoonover (Kayla), Jill Asher (Dave) and Gay Quick (Allan Markt); numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and a great host of friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family will receive friends Friday, July 25, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 26, at 10:30 a.m., also at the church. The service will be live-streamed on the churchs Facebook page. Memorials may be made to the Christian Fellowship Church or For Gods Children International (FGCI). Interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Mound City. Online condolences may be left at www.chamberlainfuneral.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press. The severity of the flash flooding that killed more than 130 people in Texas's Hill Country was difficult to predict because the science is not yet available, a local meteorologist testified during Wednesday's special legislative session. The "prolific" flooding was made possible by the moisture leftover from Tropical Storm Barry, which made landfall on the east coast of Mexico on June 29, Pat Cavlin, a meteorologist at Houston CBS affiliate KHOU, said during Wednesday's session in a pre-recorded video. The moisture then moved up to Texas and interacted with a slow-moving batch of storms over the middle of the state, combining over "one of the worst parts of the state when it comes to flash flooding events," Cavlin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: What has been proposed at the Texas special legislative session on flooding crisis Texas Hill Country is often colloquially referred to as "Flash Flood Alley" because the weather and landscape in the south-central Texas region work together to produce rapid flood events, according to the Texas Water Resources Institute (TWRI). What made the situation unique was the presence of a mesoscale convective vortex (MCV) -- "basically a mini area of low pressure" -- that was slow-moving and stationary over Central Texas at the time of the torrential rains that caused the flash flooding, according to Cavlin. Texas House of Representatives - PHOTO: Senator Menendez is shown during the Texas special legislative session's discussion on the flooding crisis in Hill Country is shown in Austin Texas, on July 23, 2025. While meteorologists knew that the MCV would be in the area about 12 to 18 hours before the event unfolded, the amount of heavy rain that would be produced was not clear until just hours before the Guadalupe River flooded, Cavlin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meteorologists began issuing alerts on July 3 that indicated there was cause for concern about the potential flooding that would take place within the next 24 hours. Throughout the day, multiple National Weather Service (NWS) offices responsible for forecasting conditions in that region were highlighting in various forecast alerts and warnings that there was an elevated risk for flash flooding in south-central Texas due to the current weather pattern in place. On the morning of July 3, the NWS Weather Prediction Center (WPC) upgraded the portion of south-central Texas, including Kerr County and surrounding areas. At 1:18 p.m. on July 3, a Flood Watch was issued by the NWS Austin/San Antonio office, including Kerr County and surrounding areas through Friday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: These are the factors that contributed to the extreme Texas flooding That alert mentioned that local heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding in the region, with isolated amounts of 5 inches to 7 inches possible, adding that "excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone locations." At 6:10 p.m., the WPC highlighted the south-central Texas region, including Hill Country, as an area of increasing concern for slow-moving, training thunderstorms, or rounds of thunderstorms that remain in the same area, with the potential for rainfall rate exceeding 3 inches per hour into the evening hours and beyond. The first flash flooding warning was issued at 1 a.m. on July 4 as thunderstorms began to roll in. At 4:03 a.m., a "rare" flash flood emergency warning was issued -- indicating an imminent, ongoing threat to life and public property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 4:20 a.m., the Guadalupe River hit a major flood stage, Cavlin said. While flash flood warnings are common in the region, flash flood emergencies are not, he added. "This is an extreme event," Cavlin said. "It's a freak event, really." Texas House of Representatives - PHOTO: Texas special legislative session's discussion on the flooding crisis in Hill Country is shown in Austin Texas, on July 23, 2025. Cavlin noted that scientific and technological limitations make predicting a storm of this magnitude challenging. "The science just isn't there yet," he said. "We are not at a point yet where we can identify where these individual pockets that lead to this life-threatening flash flooding can happen until pretty much it's starting to happen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Texas flooding: Gov. Greg Abbott calls special legislative session for flood emergency planning The deadly flooding over the Fourth of July weekend killed at least 136 people, including dozens of girls at Camp Mystic, situated on the Guadalupe River, Texas officials announced on Wednesday. Four people remain missing -- include one adult male and one girl from Camp Mystic in Kerr County, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said. Marble Falls Volunteer Fire Department Chief Michael Phillips is among the missing, and another person from Travis County, Abbott said. Lawmakers filled House Bill 165 on Tuesday, which aims to create a model guide for local officials to follow regarding disaster response and recovery. The bill addresses contracting for debris removal; obtaining federal disaster funding; determining availability and construction of short-term and long-term housing and obtaining assistance from volunteer organizations. Texas House of Representatives - PHOTO: Texas special legislative session's discussion on the flooding crisis in Hill Country is shown in Austin Texas, on July 23, 2025. Abbott called the special session in the wake of the flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We must ensure better preparation in the future," Abbott said in a statement. The special session is scheduled to last for 30 days. Other items on the agenda for the special legislative session include a congressional redistricting plan, which could create more seats for Republicans, and a second attempt at regulating THC, the psychoactive compound found marijuana. Editors note: This copy has been changed to reflect that Cavlin appeared in the special legislative session in a pre-recorded video. Next-gen concrete may have skin-like qualities if Texas A&M experts successfully bring their self-repairing product to market. The researchers have developed a synthetic lichen that can fix cracks in cement, sort of like how our epidermis heals cuts, according to an A&M press release. The breakthrough could solve a common problem seen on most sidewalks. Cracking can also lead to failures in large structures, such as bridges and buildings, according to the team. "Microbe-mediated self-healing concrete has been extensively investigated for more than three decades, but it still suffers from one important limitation none of the current self-healing approaches are fully autonomous since they require an external supply of nutrients for the healing agents to continuously produce repair materials," Assistant Professor Congrui Grace Jin said in the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lichen is often found in nature when attached to trees and rocks. It thrives in severe conditions thanks to symbiotic relationships. The organism contains cyanobacteria that convert air and sunlight into food, as well as fungi. This, in turn, makes minerals that can seal small concrete splits before they turn into ruinous ravines. It can help make healing automatic, saving time and money that's burned with hands-on repairs. For reference, the U.S. spends tens of billions of dollars each year fixing concrete infrastructure, all per A&M. The concept was vetted during lab tests when microbes lived in air, light, and water. It grew and produced crack-filling minerals, the report continued. The positive results are multiple. Repair costs for governments and property owners could plummet thanks to a self-healing key building material. Additionally, cement production is estimated to account for about 8% of the world's heat-trapping carbon dioxide emissions, according to the World Economic Forum. So, extending its lifespan would help to clear the air by reducing production needs. Planet-warming gases are contributing to increased risks of severe weather, according to NASA. And government reports have highlighted growing air pollution-related health concerns, including dementia, asthma, and heart risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For reference, concrete is the second-most used substance on Earth following water, at more than 494 billion cubic feet used annually, per the WEF. Cleaning up the industry has been a focus of other research as well. Experts at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom are working on a fungal-based mix called mycocrete. Cleaner slurries used in 3D printers, and even recycled plastic-based bricks, are innovations that are already used or hold promise for the future. You can help the success of sustainable efforts by investing in companies that are working on cleaner products and building a portfolio that aligns with your personal values. At home, you can eliminate concrete in landscaping and replace it with native flowers as part of rewilded plots. Domestic plants require less water, fewer costly fertilizers, and fewer other treatments. The varieties also help pollinators, crucial to 35% of our food supply, according to the U.S. government. At A&M, researchers are also examining societal concerns about using fungi in building materials as they perfect their innovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To develop a better understanding of using living organisms in construction and the ethical, social, environmental, and legal issues involved," per the release. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Scientists are sounding the alarm about the aquatic weeds that are threatening New Zealand's alpine springs. What's happening? A team of researchers at the University of Canterbury has observed invasive plants spreading through New Zealand's high-country waterways. Graduate student Saskia Brown is leading the study, which is an extension of their undergraduate work, per a UC press release. They're analyzing data from 2004 onward to understand how the weeds have grown and what could happen in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The springs are biodiversity hot spots, a refuge for native species with cold, clear water, and rich invertebrate life, but that's rapidly changing," said Dr. Helen Warburton, a supervising faculty member from the UC's School of Biological Sciences. Why are the weeds concerning? The weeds are changing the makeup of these ecosystems in New Zealand. "Springs that once supported distinct and diverse invertebrate communities are now becoming increasingly uniform, dominated by species like the invasive mud snail," said Angus McIntosh, the study's other supervising professor. "Slowed water flow and dense weed growth are replacing the rocky streambeds that many native species rely on." While New Zealand's Department of Conservation has done some work to control the weeds, Brown's study focuses on removal. Without long-term solutions, the weeds will come back and that will drastically affect native species and their ability to thrive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These invasive weeds will also negatively impact food supply chains and water sources. When an ecosystem becomes unbalanced, a lot of harm can happen. What's being done about the invasive weeds? The research team believes that collaboration will lead to successful conservation. Its members aim to work with local people and communities to keep the land healthy. They hope that their actions will also honor cultural values. For example, watercress is a traditional food source. A well-rounded solution will let this plant grow in other places while minimizing the damage it causes to the waterways. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The New Zealand government will also invest 12 million New Zealand dollars (about $7.2 million) in removing wilding pines. SocialNews.XYZ reported that they harm rural communities and farmers. By investing in removal now, New Zealand will save itself billions of dollars in damage over the next 50 years. 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. Scientists Warn NASA Cuts Could Jeopardize Safety, Innovation in Open Letter A group of scientists and NASA employees, current and former, have issued a public plea to interim NASA Administrator Sean Duffy in the form of the Voyager Declarationan open letter urging the agency not to implement deep budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration. The declaration highlights the potential consequences of a $6 billion reduction to NASAs total budget. The authors argue that essential research in space science, aeronautics, and earth stewardship is inherently governmental functions that cannot be replaced by the private sector. We reached out to NASA Watch founder Keith Cowing, who told us, I think things in Florida got a little less bad, probably better, in that the Artemis program and some of the launches seem to have advocates in both the House and Senate on both sides of the aisle. The declaration also raises red flags over proposed changes to NASAs Technical Authorityits system of internal checks and balances established after the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster to ensure safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NASA spokesperson Bethany Stevens told Eyewitness News, NASA will never compromise on safety. Any reductionsincluding our current voluntary reductionwill be designed to protect safety-critical roles. Thanks to the innovators, risk-takers and researchers, NASA shocked the world in 1969 by ensuring Americans became the first to step on the moon. But, the United States hasnt been back since 1972. Thats a shame and means we shouldnt continue down the same path weve been on for decades. We must revisit whats working and whats not so that we can inspire the American people again and win the space race. Despite the claims posted on a website that advances radical, discriminatory DEI principles, the reality is that President Trump has proposed billions of dollars for NASA science, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to communicating our scientific achievements. To ensure NASA delivers for the American people, we are continually evaluating mission lifecycles, not on sustaining outdated or lower-priority missions. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. SCRANTON A couple who had a pack of cane corso mastiffs at their Minooka home have complied with a court order to remove all of the dogs from the house, their attorney told a judge Tuesday. As a result, Lackawanna County Judge Mark Powell did not impose any sanctions on the husband, John Dodge, who was the defendant in the citys injunction lawsuit regarding the excessive number and handling of the mastiffs at the 421 Campbell St. home of Dodge and his wife, Janelle. All of the dogs have been removed from the property, defense attorney Tullio DeLuca told the judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuesdays proceeding was the latest development in an injunction lawsuit filed May 19 by Scranton against John Dodge over the excessive number of dogs at the home and their oversight and impact on the neighborhood; and a zoning violation by operating a kennel in a residence. Powell first heard the case May 27, and John Dodge did not attend the hearing. In a June 10 ruling, Powell determined the dogs and their handling constituted a public nuisance and ordered Dodge to remove all of the dogs. When Dodge had not complied, the city on June 27 filed a petition for sanctions based on the defendants civil contempt of a court order. Powell then held a hearing July 15 on the contempt claim and both Dodges attended. Janelle Dodge testified that day that a constable previously delivered legal papers addressed to her husband in the injunction but she had not opened her husbands mail. Janelle also testified she was not purposefully breeding the dogs and had been trying to rehome most of them; she started a website for Superior Cane Corso Kennels to attract buyers; she wanted to ensure the dogs went to appropriate owners; she had about 14 dogs at that time, none of which were spayed or neutered; she wanted to keep five of the dogs and return to living in the Back Mountain area. Powell on July 15 ordered that dogs 12 months old or younger and their mother if still lactating be taken immediately by state dog warden officials to Nalas Animal Rescue and Sanctuary in Wright Twp., which agreed to take that category of the dogs. Powell also ordered the Dodges to discontinue operation of their Superior Cane Corso Kennel at the Campbell Street home, and rehome any remaining adult dogs not taken to Nalas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Powell scheduled a follow-up hearing for Tuesday to learn of the outcome and asked how many of the dogs went to Nalas and the disposition of the rest. Scranton Assistant City Solicitor Mariclare Hayes said six dogs were taken July 15 to Nalas and there was some dispute over which dogs were eligible to be taken to the rescue operation. The Dodges do not want to surrender ownership of the dogs, and they want to move elsewhere where the dogs would be allowed, Hayes told the judge. Hayes asked the judge to set a time frame for the Dodges to reclaim the dogs from Nalas. Powell set that time period as up to 30 days. Hayes also sought an order from the judge to allow Nalas to get veterinary care for the dogs at Nalas and have Dodge pay those bills. Powell agreed, saying, Mr. Dodge, those are going to be your financial obligations. With six dogs taken to Nalas, the location of the other eight dogs removed from the Campbell Street home by the Dodges was not specified in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked after the hearing where the other eight dogs went, DeLuca declined to comment specifically but said of those dogs, Theyre being taken care of. A breed of Italian lineage, the name of cane corso roughly translates from Latin as bodyguard dog. * A photo of several cane corso mastiff dogs on a rear deck of 421 Campbell St. in Scranton, as taken from a neighboring home at 2426 Pittson Ave. (COPY OF PHOTO / COURTESY OF DAWN HAFNER) * A photo of several cane corso mastiff dogs on a rear deck of 421 Campbell St. in Scranton, as taken from a neighboring home at 2426 Pittson Ave. (COPY OF PHOTO / COURTESY OF DAWN HAFNER) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * A photo of several cane corso mastiff dogs on a rear deck of 421 Campbell St. in Scranton, as taken from a neighboring home at 2426 Pittson Ave. (COPY OF PHOTO / COURTESY OF DAWN HAFNER) Show Caption 1 of 3 A photo of several cane corso mastiff dogs on a rear deck of 421 Campbell St. in Scranton, as taken from a neighboring home at 2426 Pittson Ave. (COPY OF PHOTO / COURTESY OF DAWN HAFNER) Expand MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) South Carolinas loggerhead sea turtles are swimming to the Grand Strands shores, laying their eggs near the sand dunes, and watching their hatchlings start their lives. The sea turtles lay their eggs from May to August, about an arms length under the sand so the hot summer sun and sand cannot burn them, Myrtle Beach State Park ranger Ann Wilson said. The eggs hatch from July to October. Most turtles lay their eggs at night because its cooler, which is also why most eggs hatch at night. This year, Wilson said the average number of eggs per nest is 118. The eggs are about the size of a ping-pong ball. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During nesting season, more than 1,000 volunteers across South Carolina hit the beach every morning at 6 a.m. to look for signs of turtle nests. We have a 300-pound turtle, Wilson said. Then, we will look for the tracks, showing that shes crawling up and dragging her body out of the water. Were looking for tracks that are about a foot or two wide. Hatchling tracks are going to be tinier and smaller, and theres going to be a lot more. Wilson said many parts of the sea turtle nesting process depend on temperature. Cooler temperatures create males, and hotter temperatures create females, she said. Turtles wont show up in our waters until its warm enough. They cant nest and incubate their eggs until its warm enough, so its all about temperature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three days after the nests come out of the sand, the public can see how many eggs hatched, as the state Department of Natural Resources digs up the nest. However, Wilson said much of the public does not know how to care for sea turtles or their nests. You can do your part by filling in sand holes, smashing sandcastles, and picking up trash. If youre walking the beach at night, make sure you have no lights on or a red flashlight, Wilson said. Its harder for them to see that wavelength, and it wont scare them. Keep your dog on a leash, because that can be an assumed predator. Stay off these sand dunes, these beautiful hills of grass, because thats our line of defense against storms. But it can also be a safe place for a sea turtle to lay eggs. Wilson said the state has seen about 3,300 nests since May, which is fewer than usual. However, sea turtles do not nest every year, so Wilson is not worried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said hatchlings leave their nest and make their way toward the water. That 20-minute crawl is dangerous, but many sea turtles live long lives. Theyre running really fast because there are predators, Wilson said. Depending on the beach, there could be foxes, raccoons, and coyotes. Then, theres plastic, sharks, fish, and birds. They probably do not start laying their first nest until 25 to 35 years of age. We think they could still be laying eggs at 75 to 80 years, maybe even 90 years. Next year, Wilson said you will be able to sign up for a Friday morning sea turtle patrol at the park. * * * Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sean Grayson files new motions claiming self-defense in shooting of Sonya Massey SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) Sean Grayson, the former Sheriffs deputy accused of killing Sonya Massey, is now asking for evidence to be admitted in his court case that he and his lawyers say backs up his claim of self-defense in the Springfield womans death. Grayson and his attorneys filed three motions on Wednesday, asking that Judge Ryan Cadagin admit evidence showing two things about Massey: her existing state of mind and alleged propensity for violence. The third motion was a cease-and-desist order, asking that the Massey Commission end alleged activities in Peoria County, where Graysons trial will take place. ALSO ON WEDNESDAY: Sean Grayson transferred to Sangamon Co. Jail for medical procedures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In their motions, Graysons lawyers claimed that Massey was purported to have been mentally troubled in the days and hours before her death, and that in the days before, she was involved in acts of violence with neighbors. The lawyers said that on June 27, 2024, Massey texted someone she knew and said she needed help. Sonya told him/her they will kill her and she is thankful for him/her. Sonya stated she is thankful for everything, the lawyers said. Sonya stated she is not ok, she is about to die at St. Johns [Hospital] and they are taking her to Granite City. Graysons lawyers added that, according to Masseys son, she had attacked a neighbor with a brick on July 5, 2024, the day before she died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Ms. Masseys son, the neighbor was distraught and confused as to why his mother Sonya had chased and hit her,' the lawyers wrote. Another neighborreported to the Illinois State Police that Sonya and her neighborhad been in a dispute the day prior in reference to a car window being broke.' Family of Sonya Massey celebrates her life, community provides support 1 year after her death Graysons lawyers said that the same day, Masseys mother Donna called 911 to report her daughter was having a mental breakdown and was paranoid. Springfield Police responded to that call and spoke with Massey while she was tended to by EMTs and a clinician from Memorial Behavioral Health. Later in the day, at 1:31 p.m., both Massey and Donna went to the ER of HSHS St. Johns Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to her mother, Ms. Massey had busted out her car window and advised medical staff she was recently diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic,' Graysons lawyers said. Massey left the ER at 6:44 p.m. without being seen by staff, the lawyers said. Six hours later, she called 911 to report a prowler around her home. 30 minutes after that, Graysons body camera recorded him shooting Massey dead. Grayson claimed Massey was in the process of throwing a pot of steaming water at him when he opened fire. Evidence of her violent history is not only admissible, but necessary to establish who was the first aggressor in the events at dispute, Graysons lawyers wrote. After all, the Illinois State Polices self-purported Subject Matter Expert regarding Use of Force Incident Review memorializedas Deputy Grayson continued to instruct Mrs. Massey to drop the pot and approached the cabinets, Mrs. Massey threw the steaming hot water from the pot.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here, [Masseys] then existing state of mind is central to the ultimate question as to whether the defendants belief that the employment of deadly force was reasonable and justified, Graysons lawyers added. Statements made by the declarantin near proximity to the events at dispute regarding her then existing mental condition are relevant and material to resolve that question.' Ben Crump, legal team speak out on historic settlement for Sonya Masseys family In addition to the motions to admit new evidence about Massey, Grayson and his lawyers asked that the judge bar the Massey Commission, established after the deadly shooting, from acting in Peoria County. Graysons trial was moved there to avoid a jury potentially biased against Grayson. One of the specific bases for moving to change the place of trial involved the formation, activities and media generated by the Massey CommissionPeorians not having been exposed to this peculiarly persuasive material, Graysons lawyers said. Subsequent to the court granting the defendants motion for a change of place of trial, the Massey Commissionhas now embarked on a mission to educate the citizens of Peoria County on the Massey matter. Whether intended or not, the effect of this is that the Commission is potentially tainting the Peoria County jury pool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked for comment, Massey Commission representative Adam White provided a brief response in which he denied the claim of the commission acting in Peoria County: The Massey Commission, created by the Sagamon County Board in response to the brutal murder of Sonya Massey in Springfield, fully understands and is committed to the work of building a more equitable and a more transparent Sangamon County. Neither the Massey Commission, nor any Commissioner, has acted in an official capacity in Peoria County. Adam White, Public Engagement Manager White also said that the commission will provide a longer statement on Thursday once commissioners speak with the Massey family, which is traveling back to Illinois from a trip out of state. WCIA also reached out to Graysons lawyers for comment but 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 WCIA.com. Editors Note: This story contains disturbing details involving minors. Viewer discretion is advised. Weve also included a video explaining how bail works in Texas. While its not directly related to this case, it helps explain how bond amounts are set and why some suspects are released before trial. MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A 20-year-old Midland man was arrested this week after state and federal investigators uncovered disturbing online communications involving two juvenile victims. 20-year-old Neil Standley Koonce was arrested on Monday, July 21, following the execution of a residential search warrant. The operation, according to the affidavit, was led by special agents with the Texas Department of Public Safety Investigations Division, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Midland County Sheriffs Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrest stemmed from an earlier investigation into allegations of online solicitation of a minor under the age of 14. According to the affidavit, investigators initially identified a series of sexually explicit conversations between Koonce and a 13-year-old girl. The exchanges included graphic messages and images, prompting authorities to secure a search warrant for Koonces residence. During that search, agents examined Koonces cellphone and discovered additional communications with a second juvenile victim: On May 29, 2025, Koonce then allegedly requested a sexually explicit image from the second victim, using coercive language. Reports detailed the graphic request and photos sent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affidavit alleges that Koonce knowingly induced the child to participate in what the law defines as a sexual performance, a second-degree felony. In addition to the original charge of online solicitation of a minor under 14, Koonce now faces two counts of sexual performance of a child and one count of possession of child pornography. He is currently being held in the Midland County Detention Center on a combined bond of $250,000 as of Tuesday 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 Yourbasin. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) SeaWorld San Diego has several new baby animals you can visit at the park and they are sharing them with you. This year, the park has seen the birth of baby bamboo sharks, king penguin chicks, flamingo chicks, dolphin caves and a sea otter pup. PHOTOS: Rescued baby sea otter deemed non-releasable, now at SeaWorld San Diego Baby Bamboo Sharks SeaWorld San Diego has two baby brown banded bamboo sharks visitors can see at the Shark Encounter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The park says both pups are thriving in the newly designed aquatic system located in the behind-the-scenes lab of the Shark Encounter and Turtle Reef aquariums. Guests can catch a glimpse of them during the Turtle Up-Close Tour . Watch: Baby dolphin defies all odds, survives broken jaw after SeaWorld rescue SeaWorlds Shark Encounter is now home to two baby brown banded bamboo sharks (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) SeaWorlds Shark Encounter is now home to two baby brown banded bamboo sharks (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) King Penguin Chicks Visitors to SeaWorlds Penguin Encounter can see three king penguin chicks who hatched at the park in February and April. There are now 20 king penguins at SeaWorld San Diego out of the 200+ bird colony. Even though the parks emperor penguins moved to SeaWorld Orlando in early June, SeaWorld San Diego is still home to seven penguin species that guests can currently visit at Penguin Encounter and Penguin Point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King penguins are the second largest penguin species. Chicks are fed by their parents until winter, when they join a group to huddle for warmth until their parents return in the spring. Guests can see the birds at Penguin Encounter or get up close during the Ultimate On-Ice Penguin Experience . SeaWorld San Diegos emperor penguins moving to Florida Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Three king penguin chicks join the SeaWorld San Diego colony (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Flamingo Chicks SeaWorld San Diego now has three flamingo chicks that are expected to start walking in just a few weeks. The baby flamingos can be seen nestled beneath their parents on flamingo-built mud mounds. SeaWorld says they are expected to reach full size by summers end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the chicks begin exploring, guests can interact with the flock through the Flamingo Up-Close Encounter experience. PHOTOS: Abandoned baby bear cub thriving after month of care at Ramona Wildlife Center SeaWorld San Diego recently welcomed three flamingo chicks that will begin walking soon and are expected to reach full size by the end of the 2025 summer (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) SeaWorld San Diego recently welcomed three flamingo chicks that will begin walking soon and are expected to reach full size by the end of the 2025 summer (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) SeaWorld San Diego recently welcomed three flamingo chicks that will begin walking soon and are expected to reach full size by the end of the 2025 summer (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Sea Otter Pup SeaWorld San Diego has a new 4-month-old sea otter pup that was rescued at just 2.5 weeks old in Monterey, California by the Monterey Bay Aquarium before being transferred to SeaWorld. Jane, the southern sea otter, joins the other otters, including Bennett, another rescued otter pup who joined the park earlier this year and has taken on the role of Janes protective older brother, after being deemed non-releasable by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jane is expected to join the main Wild Arctic habitat at SeaWorld San Diego later in the summer of 2025. Guests can see the parks rescued sea otters up close during the Sea Otter Up-Close Encounter . Rescued otter pup readying for public debut at SeaWorld San Diego Jane, the 4-month-old sea otter pup who was rescued in Monterey, will join the rest of the otters at SeaWorld San Diegos Wild Arctic habitat later summer 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Jane, the 4-month-old sea otter pup who was rescued in Monterey, will join the rest of the otters at SeaWorld San Diegos Wild Arctic habitat later summer 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Jane, the 4-month-old sea otter pup who was rescued in Monterey, will join the rest of the otters at SeaWorld San Diegos Wild Arctic habitat later summer 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Jane, the 4-month-old sea otter pup who was rescued in Monterey, will join the rest of the otters at SeaWorld San Diegos Wild Arctic habitat later summer 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Dolphin Calves Visitors can also find two baby dolphins Jupiter and Phin who were born at the park in late 2024 and early 2025. Jupiter and Phin were born to first time mothers Corona and Coco. SeaWorld said back in June when they announced the birth of the dolphin calves that the babies would join the larger dolphin pod once they reached certain swimming and social milestones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jupiter and Phin are still under the close watch of SeaWorlds animal care team, and SeaWorld says guests can follow the inspiring journey of rescued calves Cardiff and Chance as they grow and reach exciting milestones by visiting Dolphin Stadium. SeaWorld San Diego welcomes two baby dolphins Jupiter and Phin were born at SeaWorld San Diego in late 2024 and early 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Jupiter and Phin were born at SeaWorld San Diego in late 2024 and early 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) Jupiter and Phin were born at SeaWorld San Diego in late 2024 and early 2025 (PHOTO: SeaWorld San Diego) This seasons baby boom is a joyful reminder of the important work happening every day behind the scenes, said Eric Otjen, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld San Diego. Each chick, pup and calf represent not only a new life, but a chance for our guests to connect with nature and learn more about the species we are working so hard to protect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SeaWorld San Diego is located at 500 Sea World Drive in San Diego. To visit the baby animals or get a closer look through exclusive tours and encounters available throughout the park and for more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldSanDiego.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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Police said another victim in a July Baton Rouge shooting has died from gunshot injuries. Jordan Scott, 22, died from injuries on July 21 after he was shot in a car in the 6000 block of South Sherwood Forest Boulevard on July 13. The first victim was identified as driver Byron Howard, 44. An investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact BRPDs Violent Crimes Unit at 225-389-4869 or Crime Stoppers at 228-344-7867. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shooting on Cathedral Drive in Baton Rouge leaves 1 man dead 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. LOUISIANA (KLFY) Beginning Aug. 1, Louisiana will see new laws take effect. Laws impacting education, crime and bringing an official role to the Secretary of States office will bring about changes. Act 185 designates the Secretary of State as the official Protocol Officer for the State of Louisiana, providing resources for other agencies and elected officials in the state regarding relations with other countries. Its something we had been informally doing anyway, and so its not anything new, said Landry. Its just going to allow us to be recognized as the official protocol officer of the state, and we will provide that service to other agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landry spoke with News 10, saying the new law indicates the secretary of state will actively seek contacts with officials in other countries that the state of Louisiana desires to have active trade, cultural or educational relationships with. Landry says her office is not unfamiliar with the role, but the new law makes it official. She says her office hopes to be a resource to the Louisiana Economic Development Agency for countries that plan to visit the state and are looking for trade opportunities. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Most foreign dignitaries who come to Louisiana are looking for trade opportunities, and we have many trade opportunities with our agricultural products and oil and gas. Were the leader in energy and liquid natural gas in particular, she said. And so many countries are looking to develop trade relationships with us in those areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Landry says that because Louisiana is unique in language, food, music and culture, other countries are interested in what the state has to offer and the trade opportunities available. So some of the things that theyve suggested in the past, or sister city relationships where we exchange students, and some students will go study in a foreign country, that country will then send students to Louisiana to study, she said. Landry says it allows her office to provide that service to agencies and be a central figure for them to get the resources they need when meeting with dignitaries from other countries. So, its just somewhere we had a little bit of a gap in Louisiana, she said. I wanted to fill that gap, and weve been doing it informally, and we wanted to just formally recognize it in the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She says the new law is a good thing as it will allow Louisiana to officially continue maintaining and building relationships with countries that are mutually beneficial. This is a feel-good law, said Landry. We are excited about this, and like I said, its just an opportunity for us to be a resource and to serve our state more. And thats what we were looking to do. 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. Russian President Vladimir Putin is not worried about U.S. President Trump or his 50-day deadline for Russia and Ukraine to reach a ceasefire, the Guardian reported on July 22, citing unnamed Kremlin officials. "Moscow is disappointed and upset that it didnt work out with Trump But whatever expectations Putin might have had for a good relationship with Trump, it was always going to come second to his maximalist goals in Ukraine. For Putin, the invasion of Ukraine is existential," a former high-ranking Kremlin official said. On July 14, Trump announced the White House will impose "severe tariffs" on Russia unless it agrees to a deal on ending the war in Ukraine within 50 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. leader also announced that Washington will supply Ukraine with new weapons, including Patriot air defense systems, amid intensified Russian missile and drone attacks. "Putin didnt go out of his way to humiliate Trump but he certainly didnt handle it wisely," the Kremlin official said. Russia's bombardment of Ukrainian cities following talks between Trump and Putin was a "strategic mistake" that misread Trump, the official told the Guardian, noting that Putin is "obsessed" with not looking weak. "A lot can happen in 50 days and Putin knows that. He sees Trump as emotional and susceptible to influence... Moscow will keep making overtures toward Washington. They dont see this rift as irreversible," a source within Russias foreign policy establishment said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Putin sees Trump's ultimatum as an opportunity to maximize his goals for Russia's war against Ukraine, those familiar with the Russian leader's thinking told the Guardian. "In Moscow, there had been hope and anticipation of forging a strong relationship with Trump... But the baseline expectation in Russia has always been tougher US sanctions and a steady flow of weapons to Ukraine," independent Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya said. Reuters on July 15 reported that Putin remains determined to continue Russia's war against Ukraine until the West agrees to peace on his terms. Russia continues insisting on its terms, despite Trump's recent threats to impose 100% "secondary tariffs" on Moscow unless it agrees to a peace deal within 50 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's 50-day ceasefire deadline was both welcomed and garnered criticism among Ukraine's allies, who believe the deadline is too long. The EU welcomed Trump's renewed push to bring Russia to the negotiating table, EU Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas told the Telegraph in an article published July 14, adding that Washington's 50-day timeline is a "long time." "On one hand, it is very positive that President Trump is taking on a strong stance on Russia... On the other hand, 50 days is a very long time if we see that they are killing innocent civilians," she said. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian troops enter Pokrovsk, Ukrainian search and destroy operation ongoing Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The recent seizure of an Afghan man by masked ICE agents in East Hartford threatens not only his life but also those of future generations of American soldiers, veterans fighting for his release said. The Trump administration is recategorizing legal immigrants to illegal, said Shawn VanDiver, a Navy veteran and president of AfghanEvac, a veterans group that works to protect U.S. allies. They are targeting those who trusted us enough to stand by us, targeting the friends of U.S. service members. This is about whether this country honors its word to those who risk everything. Zia worked with U.S. forces, his family was tortured by the Taliban because of that service, he entered the country legally , VanDiver, who hosted a press call on the issue, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zia, who served as a translator for the United States military during the war in Afghanistan, was granted a Chief of Mission Special Immigration Visa in 2024 and settled in Connecticut in 2025, according to his attorney, Lauren Petersen. He has no criminal history, a pending green card application, a full-time job and a wife and children in Connecticut. Zia was reporting for a routine biometrics appointment to have his fingerprints taken, Petersen said, when he was surrounded by six masked, armed ICE agents and thrown into a van. He was later taken to Plymouth County Correctional Facility in Massachusetts, where he is currently being held. My office was contacted last week by the family, said U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes, D-5, on the call. They simply had no idea even where Zia was being held. We had someone who was here legally, who had no interaction with law enforcement, who did everything they were supposed to do, who was invited to this country, escorted into this country, to now be detained and the family had no idea where he was, it was incredibly overwhelming, Hayes said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of the elected officials on the call, including Hayes, in whose Connecticut district Zia and his family live, Rep. Bill Keating, in whose district Zia is being held, and U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who has worked for years to secure the evacuation and safety of U.S. allies in Afghanistan, had received an explanation from ICE for Zias arrest. ICE has not been engaging with me at any level of responsibility. We have reached out to them but they have been unresponsive, Blumenthal said. When we tried to get answers from Homeland Security or the FBI or anyone involved, we were told, believe it or not, Were not giving you an answer, Keating said. They literally said We are not giving you an answer. Keating said he had also reached out to Republican colleagues to ask if they were aware of what was happening with ICE. VanDiver said Zia was not the only Afghan who had aided U.S. troops to be detained by ICE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Keating said ICEs arrests, without explanation or due process, had been seemingly indiscriminate in his district. I had a person in New Bedford that was in their automobile with their family. (ICE) smashed the windows, they pulled the person out, they were giving the name of another person. (The person arrested) said Thats not me. It didnt matter. They took him, they detained him, they held him, Keating said. Working to deliver President Donald Trumps promise of the largest mass deportation program in history, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller in late May reportedly directed ICE agents to arrest 3,000 people a day. Hayes said the quota has deprioritized arresting violent criminals in an attempt to raise those numbers, to save face, to shift public perception and convince the people in our communities that anyone who immigrates or comes to this country from anywhere around the world poses a danger to us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resulting actions are lawless and undermine national security, she said. There is a fundamental erosion of trust, erosion of credibility and really a question that will be lingering when we call on our allies and our friends for help, Hayes said. When we need to build relationships and community, when we need literally something as simple as translation in a foreign land, will people trust the United States and does our word mean anything? Hayes and Blumenthal said they were working to free Zia through every means available. Blumenthal mentioned amicus briefs and ongoing legal action, as well voicing his opposition in hearings and through appropriations votes. But he said he didnt want to make public all of their efforts. The Department of Homeland Security is now claiming Zia is currently under investigation for a serious criminal allegation, which came as a surprise to Petersen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have seen DHS in numerous cases over and over and over again make things up, stretch the truth, outright lie to the American people, VanDiver said. Kristi Noem, the secretary of Homeland Security, said Oh, things are great in Afghanistan, its perfectly safe to send people back. And this isnt a partisan statement, its a factual statement: These people are full of s***. They keep messing things up and we need ICE to stop trying to take the low-hanging fruit of any random brown person that they can see on the street. On July 18, a U.S. District Court issued a stay of removal in response to a habeas petition seeking Zias release. ICE is seeking extradited removal, initially claiming he was in the U.S. illegally without documents. The courts are our last firewall, Petersen said. A judge temporarily stayed his removal but hes still in detention, hes still hours from his family, incredibly hurt and confused about why hes there and terrified, absolutely terrified that hell be sent back to Afghanistan. Zia must be released. His case needs to be adjudicated by the rules, the same rules that he has followed. We need Congress and all of the American public to see whats happening before this continues happening to others. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) accused the media of being either duped or complicit on the interference of the 2016 election by Russians. I want the press to be honest. I want Pulitzer Prizes to be returned. They were either duped or complicit in pushing that false narrative that put America in political turmoil for years, Johnson told NewsNations Blake Burman on The Hill. Its continuing to go on, all based on a Hillary Clinton dirty trick, the Steele Dossier that those guys knew was a dirty trick, and yet they used that to gin up the Mueller investigation, impeachments, everything else, he added. Listen, this is, again election interference orders of magnitude worse than anything Russia or China ever, ever could hope to achieve, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard put out a report last week alleging that Obama administration officials manipulated intelligence linked to Russian interference in the 2016 election. Gabbard argued in a statement that former officials took part in a treasonous conspiracy and said her office was turning over evidence to the Justice Department for possible criminal referrals. The report follows President Trumps March memo ordering the declassification of all files related to Crossfire Hurricane, the name given to the FBIs investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Trump has long denied that Russia influenced his successful White House bid in 2016 against Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Former President Obama denied the Trump administrations assertions that he manipulated evidence linked to Russian interference in the 2016 election. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, Obama spokesperson Patrick Rodenbush said in a statement to The Hills sister network NewsNation. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio, he added. The Hill was directed by The Clinton Foundation to Secretary of State Hillary Clintons personal office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story was updated at 3:23 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. A Republican senator filed a bill to codify one of President Donald Trumps executive orders, one that targets the Smithsonian Institution and the spread of divisive ideology. On Tuesday, Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., filed the Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History Act, which Banks described as a means to rid the Smithsonian of wokeness, according to a statement from his office. Its time to stop letting activists rewrite our past, Banks said in the statement. This bill puts President Trumps order into law to ensure our national museums celebrate our values, our heroes, and what makes America great. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Banks bill would direct the Smithsonian Board of Regents executive appointees to remove any improper ideology and divisive racial narratives from the institutions properties, as well as prohibit future projects from degrading American values, dividing Americans based on race, or violating federal law and policy. The bill would also prohibit any references to transgender women at the American Womens History Museum. Lastly, it would reinstate American historical sites that have been removed or changed for ideological reasons, the bill read. On March 27, Trump signed an executive order aimed at the Smithsonian and the monuments and memorials overseen by the Department of the Interior. The order identified exhibits that reflect on race and gender within the context of American history, which the order called ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives that distort our shared history. Trumps order directs Vice President JD Vance, who is on the Smithsonians board, to prohibit any federal funds going toward exhibits or programs that degrade shared American values, divide Americans based on race, or promote programs or ideologies inconsistent with Federal law and policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To advance this policy, we will restore the Smithsonian Institution to its rightful place as a symbol of inspiration and American greatness igniting the imagination of young minds, honoring the richness of American history and innovation, and instilling pride in the hearts of all Americans," Trumps order read. The American Historical Association hit back at the administration and stated Trumps executive order egregiously misrepresents the work of the Smithsonian Institution, according to a March 31 statement. It added that the claim Trump made about the Smithsonian displays improper, divisive, or anti-American ideology was false. Historians explore the past to understand how our nation has evolved, the statement read. We draw on a wide range of sources, which helps us to understand history from different angles of vision. Our goal is neither criticism nor celebration; it is to understand to increase our knowledge of the past in ways that can help Americans to shape the future." Related News: Donald Trump Read the original article on MassLive. The Senate voted 51-47 Wednesday to confirm John Hurley, President Trumps nominee to serve as undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence at the Treasury Department. Hurley is the managing partner at Cavalry Asset Management and managing member for TGK Ventures, and he has been a long-time lecturer in finance at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott (R-S.C.) applauded the confirmation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am thrilled to have John on the team as Treasurys under secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Bessent said in a statement. Johns extensive private sector experience, military service and previous service on President Trumps Intelligence Advisory Board make him uniquely qualified to serve the American people in this very important role. Scott said Hurley would help the administration fight money laundering and terrorist financing. The Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence is one of our governments most important national security and intelligence arms, and Im confident John Hurley will work diligently to protect the integrity of our markets and hold malign foreign actors accountable, Scott said in a statement. Hurley also serves on the board of governors of the Middle East Institute, the board of overseers of the Hoover Institution and the board of trustees of the American Enterprise Institute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He graduated with honors from Princeton where he served as chair of the Daily Princetonian, the campus newspaper. Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Katie Britt (R-Ala.), two other members of the Senate Banking Committee, also praised Hurley. In an age of increased competition and escalating geopolitical tension, Under Secretary Hurleys experience will be pivotal in advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives and protecting our economic system from abuse by bad actors, Hagerty said. Britt said she looks forward to working with Hurley on our aligned priority of returning to a maximum pressure sanctions regime to cut off terrorist financing networks and advance U.S. national security. Advertisement 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. Senate Democrats on Tuesday cautiously agreed to advance bipartisan legislation funding military construction and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), less than a week after Republicans rammed through a partisan bill to defund PBS, NPR and global aid programs. Thirty-eight Democrats voted for a motion to proceed to the bill after holding a long lunchtime meeting in the Lyndon Baines Johnson Room just off the Senate floor to hash out their strategy. The legislation advanced by a vote of 90 to 8. The bill, which provides $153.5 billion in discretionary funding, passed out of the Appropriations Committee with a 26-3 bipartisan vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the first appropriations bill for fiscal 2026 to advance on the Senate floor. It includes $342 million to support improved access to rural health care, $3.5 billion for the VA to help caregivers, and $3.5 billion to provide services and housing to homeless veterans. Democrats agreed to advance the legislation even though many of them are still furious at their GOP colleagues for passing a rescissions package last week that clawed back $9 billion in funding Congress had previously approved for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and global aid programs. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) defended the legislation for being crafted with input from Democrats on the Appropriations panel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First, it was done in a bipartisan process, no question about it. Second, it undoes many of the awful [Department of Government Efficiency] cuts to veterans and, third, well have an amendment process, he said, noting that Democrats only voted for the motion to begin a floor debate on the legislation. Senior Democrats voted for to proceed to the bill, including Appropriations Committee ranking member Patty Murray (Wash.) and Sens. Jeff Merkley (Ore.), Dick Durbin (Ill.), Chris Van Hollen (Md.), Martin Heinrich (N.M.), Jack Reed (R.I.), and Chris Coons (Del.). Several progressives voted against moving the bill, including Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). But Democrats are warning that just because they voted to begin the floor debate on the bill doesnt mean theyll vote to pass it, especially if Republicans block their ability to offer amendments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merkley, the ranking member of the Appropriations subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Interior Department, plans to offer an amendment that would prevent the Trump administration from offering additional rescissions packages under the Impoundment Control Act to claw back funds already allocated by Congress. Schumer argued on the floor Tuesday that Republicans were undercutting efforts to pass bipartisan appropriations bills by pushing rescissions packages. We will see how the floor process evolves here on the floor. Given Republicans recent actions undermining bipartisan appropriations, nothing is guaranteed, he said. He accused his Republican counterpart, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (S.D.), of sort of talking out of both sides of his mouth by urging Democrats to support the regular appropriations process but also pushing partisan bills to gut past funding agreements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the one hand, Leader Thune says he wants bipartisanship. Then on the other, hes pushing rescissions packages here on the floor. Hes allowing party-line votes to reverse bipartisan funding agreements. Well, you cant have it both ways, Schumer warned. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 of Representatives broke for August recess a day earlier than expected on Wednesday after Speaker Mike Johnson shut the doors to block moves from Democrats seeking to disclose government files on sex-trafficking financier Jeffrey Epstein. Johnson had a very specific reason to dismiss the House early a bipartisan discharge petition, which would allow them to force a vote on the release. I think it is to sort of try to let the air out of the balloon on the Epstein issue, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who teamed up with California Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna on the effort, told The Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But if Johnson and House GOP leadership feared the end result of that discharge petition, the Senate does not want to deal with it at all. I hope we don't waste our time on that, said Sen. John Cornyn. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) said I hope we don't waste our time on files related to Jeffrey Epstein. (Getty Images) Weve got enough to do, the Texas Republican told The Independent Wednesday. Cornyn is not entirely wrong. Over the weekend, President Donald Trump said that he wanted the Senate to cancel its August recess to confirm his nominees. The Senate also needs to begin to tee-up the spending bills to avoid a government shutdown in September. The Senate typically sees the House as childish and full of petty grievances. But theres another reason Cornyn, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, specifically would not want to be in the Trump-Epstein blast radius: he faces a potentially bruising primary challenge against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a hardline albeit scandal-ridden MAGA candidate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any harsh questioning or a vote for the files would likely imperil Cornyns reelection bid. But hes not the only Republican senator dodging the issue. Sen. Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, noted that the Judiciary Committee brings the U.S. attorney general to testify annually. Now that, maybe that's not going to happen before September, so we're going to have these Epstein files, he told The Independent. Grassley said he didnt know the next steps the courts would take, but the disclosures might lead to questions from the committee. On Wednesday, judges in Florida and New York rejected Department of Justice requests at the urging of Trump to unseal grand jury transcripts tied to Epstein, who was found dead by hanging in his New York City jail cell in 2019, in what has been ruled a suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This came after Trump had requested AG Pam Bondi unseal them after a Wall Street Journal report that he allegedly sent a bawdy hand-drawn message to Epstein for his 50th birthday party, a report Trump has denied and over which he filed a $10 billon lawsuit against the WSJ, parent company News Corp and founder Rupert Murdoch. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), another member of the Judiciary Committee, expressed some openness to having convicted Epstein accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell who is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for grooming girls and young women to be trafficked by her on-and-off boyfriend testify before Congress. Whatever the bottom line is, I'm in favor of releasing it. So I think that, you know, DOJ ought to release everything that they possibly can, and I'm all for having Maxwell testify, Hawley said. Hawley, a Yale-educated lawyer and archconservative, also suggested a joint committee made up of House members and senators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the few senators who has kept an eye on Epstein is Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). In 2017, Kaine grilled Alex Acosta, Trumps then-nominee to be labor secretary, about the time he was the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida and gave Epstein a lenient plea deal in 2008. Under the 2008 non-prosecution agreement, Epstein pleaded guilty to state charges in Florida of soliciting and procuring a minor for prostitution. That allowed him to avert a possible life sentence, instead serving 13 months in a work-release program. Why was the sweetheart deal cut? I never understood that, and I never understood why President Trump nominated the guy who cut the sweetheart deal to be his cabinet secretary, Kaine told The Independent. Kaine, who was Hillary Clintons running mate against Trump in 2016, also expressed openness to Hawleys idea of a joint committee. I think a white House can shorten circuit, all that by just doing what they've said they're going to do, and releasing the files, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unsurprisingly, Republican Trump antagonist Sen. Thom Tillis of North carolina, who announced he would not seek re-election and told The Independent last week that the administration should release the damn files said he wanted to see more. There was much made about it, he told The Independent. So one of two things are true, not so much should be made of it. Or there things that we should probably know, as long as it doesn't harm the privacy of victims, people that are not actually involved in the investigation. For now, the Senate will not have to worry about that, given the House is out. But it will be a looming question when the House returns. Back in May, five people were charged with adult exploitation, forgery and other charges for allegedly taking a 78-year-old man out of his home and claiming it with a forged deed. When Dr. David M. Tucker, executive director of the Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County, read that story, he knew it was time to address the problem of elder abuse in the community. So, at 5 p.m. Aug. 7, the Senior Community Center, 1650 W. Second St., is offering a free informational program for seniors and caregivers to address issues of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tucker said the public is invited. The case earlier this year involved pawned items, fraudulent bank transactions and forged legal documents, including a will and property deeds. Tucker said he hasnt seen any local statistics on elder abuse, but were afraid its more common than people realize. He said people without families may be more susceptible to being taken advantage of when theyre old, but we see it in families, too. Elder care is an issue across the nation, Tucker said. People are taken advantage of. On Aug. 7, Deborah Middleton, representing Adult Protective Services, will provide information about recognizing and reporting elder abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Daviess County Sheriff Brad Youngman will discuss the investigation process when concerns are reported. Our goal is always to advocate on behalf of seniors and to ensure their protection and well-being, Tucker said. He will share information about Senior Community Center programs that are designed to identify and respond to concerns about elder abuse or neglect, such as Friendly Visits and wellness checks. Kentucky Adult Protective Services reports an average of 21,559 cases a year of elder abuse statewide. The Trump administration has diverted roughly 2,000 officers and agents from the countrys ports and borders so they can support immigration raids in U.S. cities, according to an internal homeland security memo viewed by HuffPost and labeled sensitive. The shift in money and personnel reflects the White Houses desire to juice the number of deportations of people in the country without authorization even if it means sapping manpower normally devoted to countering terrorism and drug trafficking along the borders and at ports of entry. The extra bodies have come from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, an agency within the Department of Homeland Security. CBP includes the U.S. Border Patrol and is a separate entity from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the agency leading President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of late June, CBP was lending out more than 1,100 of its 19,000 border patrol agents and more than 800 of its 26,000 port officers to ICE, according to the document. CBP doesnt normally take part in immigration enforcement away from the countrys ports and borders, at least on a large scale. The agencys core responsibilities are to combat terrorism and transnational crime, safeguard the borders, and facilitate lawful travel and trade, but it is now taking part in what Trump has promised to be the largest deportation program in American history. Gil Kerlikowske, who ran CBP under former President Barack Obama, said redirecting these resources could leave the country vulnerable at its ports and borders. Trump has made a big deal about fentanyl coming into the U.S. from other countries and even used the issue as a justification for his trade war. The ports of entry thats where the fentanyl comes in, Kerlikowske said. If youve taken 800 agents off of the ports of entry, that can cause a significant problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kerlikowske also said he was worried about officers trained to work in ports and along borders suddenly taking part in urban operations and coming face to face with crowds. Armed border patrol agents swept through MacArthur Park in Los Angeles last month, prompting children to flee, according to local news reports. Their experience and training and expertise is on the border, Kerlikowske said of border patrol agents. Not policing and patrolling an urban area. Nearly 300 people from the border patrols special operations group were being deployed to support ICE operations, including fugitive apprehensions, surveillance, operational planning, entry tactics and task force participation, according to the document. Most of the CBP personnel were being used in local ICE operations in Miami, New Orleans, Boston, Nashville, San Antonio, Houston, Seattle and other cities around the country. Nearly 200 were enlisted in what the document refers to as Operation Los Angeles, the series of immigration raids that set off mass protests in California last month. The reporter of this story can be reached on Signal at davejamieson.99 or via email at dave.jamieson@huffpost.com. Another 600 had been lent out for Operation At Large, the nationwide ICE plan to round up undocumented immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency was also providing 32 aircraft and 118 pilots and agents from its air-and-marine unit, which is responsible for interdicting drugs, weapons and other illicit cargo along the borders. Those personnel have been helping to move detainees from one facility to another as they await deportation. The unit only has around 1,800 agents and support staff. The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers make an arrest after pulling a person out of their vehicle in an immigration raid at Glass House Farms in Camarillo, California, on July 10. BLAKE FAGAN via Getty Images The Trump administration hopes to hire 10,000 more ICE agents over the next five years, but it could continue to siphon staff from the ports and borders due to the time it takes to hire. The Republican-controlled Congress recently pumped billions of dollars of new funding into immigration enforcement, including it as part of their tax reform package known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The legislation steers $45 billion toward immigration detention facilities and another $30 billion toward ICE enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But historically, it has taken about half a year to hire an officer to work on deportations. Even if the administration can cut that time down significantly, it still takes months to get new officers trained and onboarded. In the meantime, Trump aides are eager to show the president they are doing whatever they can to further his deportation campaign. The CBP document boasts of the way the agency has diverted agents and officers away from their normal jobs so they can help with raids and detentions. The U.S. Border Patrol has expended great resources and manpower to assist ICE to accomplish the presidential mandates that have been set, the document states. It notes that the loaner program has involved 25 field offices and come at a cost of $20 million as of late June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although immigration raids are most commonly associated with ICE, customs and border personnel have become a common sight at roundups in California and elsewhere. Masked border patrol agents were just seen making arrests in a Home Depot parking lot in Sacramento on Thursday, according to local news reports. The administration has tried to hype the criminal backgrounds of those its arresting and deporting, but most appear to only have infractions for traffic or immigration offenses on their records. The clampdown on undocumented workers is growing increasingly unpopular among voters, according to surveys. In a recent CNN poll, 55% of respondents said Trump had gone too far with his deportation campaign, 10 points higher than in February. Kerlikowske predicted that the negative polling and any economic hit due to deportations could prompt the administration to pull back on its raids and shift resources back toward the ports and borders. You can probably guess that if they get some numbers they deem sufficient by the end of the year, this is all going to fade off, he said. A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities at 2:19 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23. This warning applies to Chippewa and Eau Claire counties in Wisconsin. Meteorologists warn of winds as strong as 60 mph. The NWS warns: "Seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows. This storm is capable of producing damaging winds." See weather radar for Eau Claire County https://radar.weather.gov/?settings=v1_eyJhZ2VuZGEiOnsiaWQiOm51bGwsImNlbnRlciI6Wy04OC45MTgsNDQuNTI3XSwibG9jYXRpb24iOm51bGwsInpvb20iOjguMjI4ODU2NjQ3NTIwODc1fSwiYW5pbWF0aW5nIjp0cnVlLCJiYXNlIjoic3RhbmRhcmQiLCJhcnRjYyI6ZmFsc2UsImNvdW50eSI6ZmFsc2UsImN3YSI6ZmFsc2UsInJmYyI6ZmFsc2UsInN0YXRlIjpmYWxzZSwibWVudSI6dHJ1ZSwic2hvcnRGdXNlZE9ubHkiOmZhbHNlLCJvcGFjaXR5Ijp7ImFsZXJ0cyI6MC44LCJsb2NhbCI6MC42LCJsb2NhbFN0YXRpb25zIjowLjgsIm5hdGlvbmFsIjowLjZ9fQ%3D%3D What are NWS meteorologists saying? At 2:19 p.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The National Weather Service in the Twin Cities has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for: Southeastern Chippewa County in west central Wisconsin, Eau Claire County in west central Wisconsin, Until 3 p.m. CDT. At 2:19 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles south of Altoona, or 7 miles southeast of Eau Claire, moving east at 40 mph. HAZARD: 60 mph wind gusts. SOURCE: Radar indicated. IMPACT: Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees. This severe thunderstorm will be near, Eau Claire and Altoona around 2:20 p.m. CDT. Fall Creek around 2:30 p.m. CDT. Augusta around 2:45 p.m. CDT. Other locations impacted by the severe thunderstorm include Brackett, Allen and Lake Eau Claire County Park." What is a severe thunderstorm warning? A severe thunderstorm warning means the area is experiencing or is about to experience a storm with winds of 58 mph or higher or hail an inch in diameter or larger. Tips for staying safe during thunderstorms Once in a shelter, stay away from windows and avoid electrical equipment and plumbing. Keep a battery-powered weather radio nearby in case of loss of power. Remember to bring pets inside. If there is time, secure loose objects outside as these objects often become dangerous flying debris in high winds. Postpone outdoor activities until the storms have passed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor. See the latest weather alerts and forecasts here This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Eau Claire County SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Take a look at some of the storm reports into the Storm Center as of 8am. SDSU mesonet report of 76mph winds near Lowry at 7:10am. We will continue to track several storms in the region today. Here are a few of the LIVE Cam shots from this morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can see some of the very strong winds north of Pierre during the 6am hour on this video below. The ongoing storms have increased during the early morning. The radar loop below clearly shows several thunderstorm areas across the region as of 7am. Todays severe weather risk map includes much of eastern KELOLAND. In fact, portions of western SD have been added to the outlook as well. The best chance of severe weather and strong storms will roll into Sioux Falls late this afternoon. Heres a look at the latest hourly planner. The good news is portions of central KELOLAND are getting rain today in the driest areas. You can see that yellow and orange pocket between Winner and Pierre. Thunderstorms are impacting that region this morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bottom line today, continue to monitor the weather. Additional storms are expected this afternoon as the main cold front advances into southeastern KELOLAND. Locally strong to severe storms will occur along and ahead of this front. We think the best chance of severe weather near Sioux Falls will be after 4pm. Continue to watch for LIVE weather bulletins and updates on your Storm Tracker App through the day. Here are the details of the forecast. Advertisement 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Two people were arrested and three children were found to have been exposed to dangerous drugs in a McMinnville home as part of an ongoing drug investigation. According to the Yamhill County Sheriffs Office, detectives with the Yamhill County Street Crimes and Narcotics Team, alongside other law enforcement officials, executed a search warrant on July 17 at a home on Southwest Rainier Street. During the operation, authorities said they arrested Shane William Cooper, 35, and Sarah Tiffany Ramirez, 34, and they found Ramirezs three children in the home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CDC delves into bubonic plague case detected in Oregon in early 2024 While searching the property, authorities said they found evidence of the possession and delivery of fentanyl as well as evidence of methamphetamine possession. Cooper is a registered sex offender, officials said, and police found evidence that he had been living at the home in violation of sex offender registration requirements. Authorities also said that the three children all tested positive for fentanyl and amphetamines. The children were placed in a safe environment by the Oregon Department of Human Services. Cooper was taken to the Yamhill County Jail on several charges, including probation violation, failure to register as a sex offender, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and unlawful delivery of a Schedule II controlled substance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramirez was also booked on charges including three counts of endangering the welfare of a minor, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and unlawful delivery of a Schedule II controlled substance. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. US Attorney-General Pam Bondi said that her department refused "to allow our digital currency platforms to become safe havens for terrorist financing. The US Department of Justice published a forfeiture claim on nearly $2 million in digital currency used to financially support Hamas, in a statement released on Tuesday. The DOJ stated that the forfeiture claim pertains to cash held by Tether Limited and Binance Holdings LTD accounts that are linked to Buy Cash Money and Money Transfer Company, a Gaza-based transfer business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US Attorney-General Pam Bondi said that the DOJ order proves the US is committed to fighting Hamas. Terrorist organizations like Hamas and their affiliates rely on shadowy financial networks to fund their deadly operations, said Bondi. By seizing millions in cryptocurrency, the Justice Department is aggressively dismantling the financial infrastructure of terrorism and refusing to allow our digital currency platforms to become safe havens for terrorist financing. The forfeiture action unsealed today demonstrates that no matter what lengths terrorism financiers take to obscure their illegal transactions, the FBI will aggressively disrupt the transmission of illicit proceeds intended to support designated terrorist organizations like Hamas, said Assistant Director in Charge, Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office. Palestinian Hamas terrorists keep guard on the day Hamas handed over deceased hostages in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip February 20, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled/File Photo) What did BuyCash finance? BuyCash and one of its owners, Ahmed al-Qad, are suspected of supporting a number of terror organizations, including Hamas, ISIS, and al-Qaeda affiliates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walla reported that BuyCash was used to buy online infrastructure for ISIS in 2017. In 2019, BuyCash received funds on behalf of an al-Qaeda affiliate. During that year, law enforcement identified several instances where BuyCash, with direct backing from al-Qad, facilitated the transfer of money to individuals known to support Hamas. In June 2021, Israels National Headquarters for Economic Terrorism Combat seized various digital accounts connected to Hamas and its military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, including one account that showed activity linked to BuyCash. Documents from the lawsuit outline a detailed plan where users utilized BuyCash to fund accounts on digital financial platforms, concealing their financial support for international terrorist organizations, including Hamas. Reports indicate that before and after October 7, at least $4 million were transferred into at least one of these accounts, intended to support Hamas. Workers monitor grid conditions in the main control room at PJM Interconnection in Valley Forge, Pa. Credit: PJM Interconnection Gov. Josh Shapiro joined a bipartisan group of leaders in nine states who called for more input on electricity grid operator PJM Interconnections governance. The move came as PJM announced a hike in energy costs for the second year in a row. Clean energy experts said the surging prices for electricity to meet the 13-state PJM regions peak demands is a clear signal for generators to build new capacity, especially renewable sources such as wind and solar farms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PJM, however, has been slow to grant approvals. Facing an onslaught of new energy projects seeking permission to connect to the grid, it closed its queue to new applications in 2022. When prices go up, its meant to send a signal to energy developers: We need more supply. But at the same time PJM is holding up a big red STOP sign to energy developers, Jon Gordon, policy director at Advanced Energy United, said in a statement. And as demand for electricity increases with the increased electrification of transportation and industry, combined with the proliferation of power-hungry data centers driven by advances in artificial intelligence, consumers feel the pinch. With the queue closed, new energy projects in the region cant get in line to connect to the transmission grid, meaning households and businesses are paying for a price signal that the market cant even respond to, Gordon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The elimination of tax credits for renewable energy sources in the budget reconciliation act President Donald Trump signed earlier this month and his executive order to end federal agencies preference for wind and solar power would make it more difficult to respond to the supply crunch, said Sharon Pillar, executive director of the Pennsylvania Solar Center, which works to extend the benefits of solar power across the state. That leaves the grid more dependent on large power stations. Solar power, batteries, and energy efficiency measures have been proven to help reduce this peak energy usage, keeping prices down for all consumers by reducing the amount of expensive (and dirty) power needed from these generators, Pillar said, noting the technology was vital to preventing blackouts on New Englands grid during a recent heatwave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As demand has increased, PJM said, existing power plants have been retired as a result of federal and state policies to decrease the use of fossil fuels. It has approved 46,000 megawatts of new generating capacity. But, the projects owners have been slow to move forward due to factors including the availability of equipment, financing challenges and state and local permitting, PJM said in a statement. Shapiro and Republican and Democratic governors from nine states sent a letter to the PJM Board of Governors last week saying the inability of the organization to efficiently connect new generating capacity and conduct long-term planning has cost the region thousands of jobs and billions in new investment that have gone elsewhere. It is long past the time for real grid reforms that allow our region to compete at the speed of business and build a system that delivers affordable, reliable power for the people and businesses PJM serves, Shapiro said in a statement last Thursday. I am hopeful that this historic collaboration between the PJM states will provide the opportunity to foster a stronger, collaborative partnership between PJM and the 67 million people it serves to chart a strong energy future together. The letter said PJMs deficiencies threaten the reliability and affordability of the electricity supply consumers need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply concerned that PJMs response has been typified by halting, inconsistent steps and rising internal conflicts within the stakeholder community, it reads, noting the abrupt termination of two board members and the imminent departure of PJM CEO Manu Asthana. Asthana, who has led the organization for five years, announced in April that he would resign to return with his family to their home in Texas. Two board members were not reelected at the bodys meeting in May. The Conowingo Dam in Maryland is a 550 megawatt hydroelectric generating station on the Susquehanna River operated by Constellation Energy that feeds the PJM Interconnection grid serving Pennsylvania and 13 other states. (Peter Hall/Capital-Star) The governors letter called on the PJM managers to take action to restore confidence in the organization by appointing distinguished, widely respected individuals to the open board seats. The letter requested a meeting with the boards nominating committee to discuss a proposed slate of candidates. The letter said representatives of the governors, who include Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, would attend the boards meeting Wednesday and be available to discuss the proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PJM Board Chair David Mills said in a response to the letter that he would reserve time during the meeting for the representatives to share the governors perspectives with the entire board. A spokesperson for Shapiro declined to comment on the meeting Wednesday. One Pennsylvania state lawmaker has also called for reforms to improve PJMs transparency and accountability. While the board of managers is independent of the generators and electric companies that are members of PJM, the member companies vote privately in committees on which policies the board will consider. Rep. Chris Rabb (D-Philadelphia) has proposed legislation that would require members to report their votes to the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission. The bill is awaiting action in the House Energy Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upper-level votes are sometimes public, but with lower-level votes being held in secret, the damage is often done before a policy is elevated to the upper-level, Rabb said in a memo seeking co-sponsors. Simply put, these companies shouldnt be allowed to vote in secret when our health and the future of our world depends on it. PJM, based in King of Prussia, operates the electrical grid that connects power stations to local electric companies from Illinois to New Jersey and from Pennsylvania to North Carolina. Its responsible for ensuring that theres enough electricity available when demand peaks on the hottest and coldest days of the year. As a result of PJMs annual wholesale capacity auction, announced Tuesday evening, electricity producers will receive $329.17 per megawatt-day to provide capacity when the peak demand hits in 2026 and 2027. Thats the maximum rate approved by federal regulators. A megawatt-day is roughly enough electricity to power up to 900 homes for a day. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a 22% increase over the price set in last summers auction, which drove double digit increases in consumer electricity costs that started last month. PJM noted the wholesale price of electricity accounts for a relatively small share of consumers electricity bills and this years price would likely result in a 1.5% to 5% increase. The Shapiro administration sued PJM after last years capacity auction and reached a settlement in January, later approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, in which PJM agreed to reduce the maximum bid that generators could offer. In a statement Tuesday, the administration cast the results of the auction as a $8.3 billion decrease in costs for electricity customers across the PJM region. In Pennsylvania, 13 million electricity consumers will save an average of $116 in the next year, the governors office said. State Public Utilities Commission Chairman Stephen DeFrank said the hike in the wholesale cost would have been closer to 36% without the settlement. Between the last two capacity auctions, ratepayers in Pennsylvania and across PJM are paying billions of dollars with minimal new generation on the horizon, DeFrank said, adding, The only real, long-term solution to tight market conditions is the addition of new supply from all types of generating resources. NewsNation) Shark Tanks Kevin OLeary wants The Late Shows Stephen Colbert to be fired for insulting CBS and the president, after the network announced on Thursday its cancelling the show. The Canadian businessman appeared on CNN Tuesday where he discussed the networks axing the long-running show, and Colberts response to President Donald Trump celebrating the cancellation. Get rid of this guy! If I were them, Id whack this guy tomorrow, OLeary said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colbert jokes about cancel culture and has a very pointed message for Trump On Friday, Trump took to Truth Social, writing that he loved that Colbert got fired. Adding that, his talent was even less than his ratings. Colbert, in response to the president, said on Monday, How dare you, sir. Would an untalented man be able to compose the following satirical witticism: Go f yourself. The Shark Tank personality called the The Late Show host a moron for insulting Trump before he gets his payout from the network. Stephen Colbert called CBS/Trump settlement a big, fat bribe CBS and Paramount Global and its parent company said theyre taking the show off the air for economic reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The day before the cancellation, Colbert had publicly criticized Paramount Global for settling a lawsuit with Trump for $16 million, calling it a big, fat bribe. Additionally, Paramount Global is seeking approval to merge with Skydance, and there have been theories that CBS fired Colbert because of his criticisms of Trump. Stephen Colbert was #1 in the ratings OLeary claims that CBS had lost $46.2 million on the franchise, adding that it was old and dead, according to The Hill. People geometrically are not watching late night TV anymore, OLeary told Abby Phillip. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was the most-watched show in its timeslot, averaging 2.4 million viewers in the second quarter of 2025, according to LateNighter.com, citing Nielsen data. Stephen Colbert gets support from fellow late-night comedians Following the cancellation news, fellow late-night hosts and celebrities expressed support for Colbert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephen Colberts journey of faith NBCs Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon said on Instagram, Im just as shocked as everyone. Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it. I really thought Id ride this out with him for years to come. Im sad that my family and friends will need a new show to watch every night at 11:30. John Oliver, host of HBOs Last Week Tonight, said, I love Stephen, I love his staff. I love that show. Its incredibly sad. I am partly excited to see what theyre going to do for the next 10 months. Love you Stephen, Jimmy Kimmel said on Instagram. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. She made a mistake: Babysitter charged with child neglect after leaving baby on asphalt According to the Eustis Police Department, the case could have ended differently. Investigators say 46-year-old Wendi Michelle Kirk left a baby on the asphalt in his car seat for almost half an hour. It was an unusual call. We found a child, a three-month-old child, abandoned on the pavement, said Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. Body camera footage shows the moment when police officers arrived at a martial arts center on West Ardice Avenue, in Eustis, on July 17th. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The babysitter of this child, in the back-and-forth of taking from martial arts and other things, forgot she had taken the child and the car seat out, placed it on the pavement, and left, said Chief Capri. Kirk usually leaves the baby with her daughter, whos 18, the incident report showed. However, on that day, he was acting fussy, so she decided to take him along, according to police records. By the time she realized the boy was missing, it was more than 30 minutes later. You know how hot it is at 4 in the afternoon in Florida, 96 degrees, Chief Capri said. The heat factors in, so it was probably feeling more like 100 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records show that two 911 calls were made that day, one of which was from the martial arts center. I look out my front door and theres a baby in a car seat, just sitting on the asphalt, and I cannot see any parents, the caller stated in the file obtained and reviewed by Channel 9. That call was made about a few minutes after the woman took off, police records show. In the same body camera footage, it is possible to see and hear Kirk crying and visibly agitated when she went back to the location approximately 34 minutes after she had left. Shes human, she made a mistake, and shes being held accountable for it, Chief Capri said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the case is bad, the chief says it couldve ended much worse. Not only was the child being in the heat, but what if someone hadnt seen the child in a vehicle and run over the child? Thank God it didnt happen, the police chief said. According to Eustis Police, the babys family did not want to press charges. The baby was taken to the hospital but went home on the same day, unharmed. Kirk was charged with child neglect and has been released on a 2-thousand-dollar bond. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Several heavily damaged vehicles are shown in Wheeling Creek near Junior Avenue in Wheeling, W.Va. after flooding Saturday, June 14, 2025. (Amy Essington | Essington Creative) Last week, a Republican lawmaker said that he didnt send a letter to West Virginias congressional delegation urging flood assistance, and said he had been hacked. In the Facebook group Marshall County WV Republican Club, a post from Del. Charles Sheedys personal Facebook account said that he sent a letter asking why President Donald Trump hasnt issued a FEMA declaration for Ohio and Marion counties from last months floods. It also included a screenshot of the letter, which was on his legislative letterhead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheedy, R-Marshall, posted on his professional Facebook account the following day that he had been hacked, and that he did not write the letter. He did not clarify to West Virginia Watch what was hacked his Facebook, legislative email or both. The communications director for the state House said a safety check performed on Sheedys accounts for suspicious activity did not find anything problematic. The reason he may want to distance himself from the letter is that it focused more on Republicans losing seats if assistance wasnt granted than on the lives that were lost during the floods. It may also be because the writer rightfully criticizes Trump for ignoring those who voted strongly for him. My constituents are also yours and they deserve an answer since approximately 78% of all West Virginians that voted did so for President Trump. the letter said. It is very apparent that the President does not need West Virginia now that he is in office for one term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether or not Sheedy sent the letter, the letter needed sending. West Virginia came to the polls for Trump. But Trump hasnt been in a hurry to return the favor. Tuesday evening 32 days after Gov. Patrick Morrisey requested a federal disaster declaration from the deadly floods that hit northern West Virginia June 14 Trump finally made the declaration, according to a statement from U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito. Now that the Major Disaster Declaration has been made, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance program will be able to provide financial aid to homeowners and renters affected by the June flooding, and through the awarding of Emergency Declaration for Public Assistance, supplemental financial assistance for state agencies and local governments is now unlocked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the second major flooding disaster this year in West Virginia. In February, three people were killed in Southern West Virginia floods. Morrisey requested a federal disaster declaration for that one too, and members of West Virginias congressional delegation also sent a letter to Trump. Nine days later, only part of the request was approved for McDowell, Mercer, Mingo and Wyoming counties. Despite receiving some assistance from FEMA, two months later residents in McDowell County were still living in their flood damaged homes with soggy floors, some surrounded by mold. On April 23, Morrisey announced that FEMA denied individual assistance grants to Boone, Cabell, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Lincoln, Monroe and Summers counties, and public assistance grants in Cabell and Kanawha counties for the February floods. Despite todays notification, I am grateful to the Trump Administration for their strong support for Southern West Virginias recovery following the February floods, Morrisey said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As much as Morrisey praises Trump, the president isnt throwing him any bones. The same goes for West Virginias congressional delegation, who all have been rubber stamping the presidents priorities. On June 20, the delegation sent another letter to the president asking him to approve Morriseys request for a disaster declaration for Marion and Ohio counties. Capito told WTOV that shes been in contact with FEMA daily to check on the status of the disaster declaration for northern West Virginia. But other than signing onto Capitos letter, what has Sen. Jim Justice been doing? What about Reps. Carol Miller and Riley Moore? I cant find anything about them reaching out individually or even speaking to the media about the flooding in northern West Virginia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what I have found is them celebrating voting in favor of a bill that will take Medicaid away from thousands of West Virginians. Theres no money in the states Flood Resiliency Trust Fund. Morrisey didnt include money for it in his budget and lawmakers didnt propose adding any money to it during this years legislative session either. Funding from FEMA is all that we have. Meanwhile, those who lost family members and their homes have been waiting almost 40 days to get help. Ive said this before, but I will say it every time this happens, because it will continue to happen West Virginia needs FEMA. Justice, Miller and Moore need to take Capitos lead and keep pushing to get things done for their home state. And maybe Sheedy should claim that letter and take some credit for the declaration finally being made. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The Livingston Parish Sheriffs Office arrested four men in connection with a child pornography investigation. According to Sheriff Jason Ard, detectives with LPSO and the Attorney Generals Office started an investigation into a tip received from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). During the investigation, detectives were able to arrest the following suspects: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justin Baham, 30, of Holden, was charged with three counts of pornography involving juveniles, indecent behavior with juveniles, and computer-aided solicitation of a minor. Connor Teague, 27, of Denham Springs, was charged with 10 counts of distribution and production of pornography involving juveniles, indecent behavior with juveniles, and computer-aided solicitation of a minor. Steven Avriett, 62, of Denham Springs, was arrested and booked on seven counts of pornography involving juveniles. Christen Cotten, 17, of Denham Springs, was booked on 10 counts of distribution and production of pornography involving juveniles and 10 counts of sexual abuse of animals. Baton Rouge police looking for man accused of attempted rape, obscenity Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. Sheriff emphasizes safety amid rash of inmate deaths at Athens-Clarke County Jail The sheriff of Clarke County and administrators of the Athens-Clarke County Jail are vowing to take more measures to improve safety following the deaths of four inmates since April. The deaths of two of the inmates is suspected to be the result of an overdose on the dangerous opioid fentanyl. The sheriff says it had been smuggled into the jail, likely by a criminal suspect. We got to do everything we can. And we think we have been doing a good job, but we can always do better, said Clarke County Sheriff Joe Q. Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 2s Tom Regan got an exclusive look at the jail on Channel 2 Action News at 5 and 6. He was joined by Williams and Chief Deputy Frank Woods at the jail, which was renovated around 10 years ago. We got to do everything we can. And we think we have been doing a good job, but we can always do better, said Clarke County Sheriff Joe Q. Williams. Regan visited the intake area, where people being booked are given a pat-down. The next step is a body scanner. Its called a Tech 84. It detects metal and non-metal objects. What we want to do is get a look at anything that might hidden inside the body and under the clothing. Theyve found drugs in peoples ears, wrapped in plastic and put down their ear canal, in the belly button, Woods said. PREVIOUS STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scanner, which resembles those at airport checkpoints, is a low radiation dose X-ray. Woods said suspects being booked on a drug charge, or a non-bondable offense, may also be subject to a strip search to detect contraband. Its an in-depth strip search that we do in the best way we can to allow that person to have dignity. Its done in a way that is not in front of other incarcerated residents, Woods said. Authorities say many of those processed into jail have a drug addiction or are experiencing mental health issues. Medical providers are in the jail infirmary to address those issues. They are going to have an initial discussion with that person, and escalate it to the psychiatrist, who will determine whether they are on medication, or need to be on medication. If a person was getting methadone in the community, and they get arrested, we are going to continue that methadone, Woods said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woods says another priority is doing welfare checks on inmates, which is challenging given a shortage of detention officers. We got to make sure the cell checks are done as often to make sure people eat, and eat appropriately and we got to make sure they get their medication. Woods said. Woods also says Williams is proactive when it comes to maintenance of the detention center. We are very proactive. You have to keep ahead of it to make sure everyone is safe, Woods said. The jail also provides classes to inmates for continuing education, and support services to help them upon release. Were going to do the best we can to help that person as a human to the next step in life and not have to come back to jail. Its really a win, win for everyone. Woods said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is continuing its investigation into the inmates deaths. The Clarke County Sheriffs office is actively hiring for detention officers and deputy positions. Those interested are encouraged to apply. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) A North Carolina man is facing multiple charges after he reportedly ran from deputies and was later found to have a live grenade in his car. According to the Buncombe County Sheriffs Office, deputies were called Tuesday to a breaking and entering call in Candler. Deputies located a suspect later identified as Gregory Pettit, who they said fled the area and led deputies on a short vehicle chase before being taken into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While searching Pettits vehicle, deputies said they located what was later determined to be a live grenade. The explosive was taken by the Henderson County Bomb Squad. Pettit was booked into the Buncombe County Detention Center on charges of possession of a weapon of mass destruction, attempted burglary, driving while in paired, failure to heed a light or siren, reckless driving, speeding, failure to stop, injury to real property, injury to personal property, cruelty to animals, resisting a public officer and fleeing to elude 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 WSPA 7NEWS. SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Shiloh Christian School announced the grand opening of its elementary building will be Aug. 1 at 5 p.m. According to a press release, the grand opening ceremony will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by remarks from superintendent Dr. Keith McDaniel and the elementary schools principal, Katerina Foley. Fayetteville High School star selected in MLB draft, but chooses to play for Razorbacks Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the ceremony, the public will have the opportunity to tour the new building. The school is on 1707 Johnson Road in Springdale, and the ceremony will be held on the steps of the new facility on the south side of the campus. The new building and cafeteria have 62,000 square feet of space, including 27 classrooms, office suites, a conference room, a second kitchen facility, art and STEM rooms, and two playgrounds. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The woman, who was arrested two weeks ago, is suspected of planning an attack on the prime minister's life with an improvised explosive device. The State Attorney's Office filed an indictment with the Tel Aviv District Court on Thursday against a 74-year-old Tel Aviv woman who planned to harm Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with an explosive device. The charges against her include attempted conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Israel Police arrested the woman for plotting to assassinate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with an improvised explosive device. She had approached other protesters in an effort to obtain weapons, and she also made inquiries about the prime ministers security arrangements, they said. The suspects identity and place of residence are protected by a court-issued gag order. At the request of investigators, a broader gag order was lifted on Wednesday, revealing the suspicions against her. The Israeli police pointing towards the inside of a car. (credit: ISRAEL POLICE) The suspect was arrested by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) after an investigation by Lahav 433 The National Crime Unit. The results of the investigation were passed on to the State Attorneys Office on Wednesday to obtain an indictment, the police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect was initially arrested two weeks ago but was released on the condition of a ban from all government institutions and from approaching the prime minister, KAN News reported. Lapid, Gantz condemn incident Anyone who tried or will try to hurt him [Netanyahu] must be brought to justice, opposition leader Yair Lapid said. Blue and White chairman Benny Gantz said the suspects intentions had crossed a red line. The law-enforcement authorities must use the full extent of the law in dealing with the suspect, he said. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A man was shot and killed Tuesday evening in what Baton Rouge detectives believe to be an attempted robbery. The Baton Rouge Police Department said the shooting took place around 6:30 p.m. in the 3700 block of Cathedral Drive near Wyandotte Street. The shooting victim was identified as Melique Etienne, 22. No further details were immediately available. This is an ongoing investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact BRPD at 225-389-2000 or Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867 (STOP). 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. Jul. 23When modern technology fails in the face of a disaster, sometimes it's best to take a more proven if slightly older approach. And few things are as tried and tested as sending someone to the center of town to yell out news as loud as they can. That's basically the idea behind a new Haywood County initiative designed to respond to emergencies that arrive with wide-spread communication blackouts i.e., exactly what happened during Helene. The plan is elegant in its simplicity: install message boards at strategic locations in communities across the county, and then update those boards daily during an emergency with crucial news about safety, rescue efforts, supply distribution points, shelter locations, boil water advisories, and more. Good old paper. No electricity, WiFi, or cell signal required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The idea's genesis lies in a Helene workaround generated by Haywood County Emergency Services during the communications blackouts that followed the storm. " The very first pivot we made was to start producing daily newsletters. And initially those newsletters were sent to churches and out with field teams that were out in the hardest hit areas, making sure people knew what was going on," said Allison Richmond, public information officer for HCES. "But then you've got all these other people who are okay, but they don't know what's going on." As Richmond pointed out, finding the manpower to deliver the daily updates is easy enough. And a generator and a little fuel is all that's needed to run a computer and printer. In an absolute worst-case scenario, a marker will do. But making sure the information gets seen, that's the tricky part. The key, it was decided, would be to habituate county residents to checking the message boards during non-emergencies, so that during the next communication blackout, people would know where to go to get info. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That's why the message boards, the first of which was recently installed outside of Maggie Valley town hall, are a partnership between the county and communities. "I'm calling them the Haywood County Information Stations for now," Richmond said. " Because they will be year round. Each community can put on them whatever is interesting to their needs throughout the year. Then if an emergency happens, we'll be able to go in and take that information out and replace it with critical information." "The importance of a public information bulletin board has only grown since hurricane Helene," noted Maggie Valley Assistant Town Manager Sam Cullen. "The town is pleased to offer a space where essential emergency information can be viewed." Six information stations are currently slated for installation or have already been installed at Maggie Valley town hall, the Canton library, the Waynesville library, at the Health and Human Services office (in Lakeside Plaza off Paragon Parkway), and the county's emergency shelter location at the old armory near Haywood Community College, and somewhere in central Clyde. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The location for Clyde's information station is still to be determined town hall was flooded during Helene, so finding a good spot for it is a bit tricky. Still, it's worth the effort, said Clyde Town Manager Joy Garland. "We are excited to bring this additional resource to our community. Our goal is to provide our citizens with as much information as we can," she said. Eventually, Richmond said, she'd like there to be 12 information stations all told, to better service off-the-main-path locations like Bethel and Cruso. Dropped calls You may be asking yourself something along the lines of "why doesn't the county just bring in some mobile cell phone towers during an emergency?" That's more or less what Clyde's leaders asked Richmond when she presented the information station plan at a town board meeting in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The answer, Richmond said, is that disasters on the scale of Helene are about infrastructure breakdowns, with communication being a kind of collateral damage. " And it's not something that a local county would ever have the resources or the capacity to fix quickly enough," she said. "We can't just put a cell phone tower in every community and that will fix the problem. It's not as simple as that. The communication infrastructure is just as complex as, say the water infrastructure or the roads systems," she said. Towers fail for a variety of reasons, she explained, and ownership of them and access to them varies. And Haywood's geography works against it in this case. " Unlike being in a flatland where maybe you could put up one giant temporary tower and give a large area service, each of our little communities is isolated by geography in a way that makes it difficult for us to do that," Richmond said. "Say Cruso loses cell phone communication. We can provide Cruso cell phone communication for a temporary fix, if it's just them. But if you've got every community that's out, then you have a large demand for resources, not just in Haywood County, but across the region." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And so, an old-school approach it is at least in worst-case scenarios like Helene. In more minor incidents, or as communications return in the week following a large-scale disaster, Haywood residents might expect to see updates being shared on more standard channels, like social media. " This is part of a multi-layer approach within the county to be proactive, to make sure that people understand what's happening, what to expect," Richmond said. In that vein, she's currently working on grant proposals with the hopes of providing a weather radio to any Haywood resident who needs one. There's no such thing as too much communication during a disaster, and having multiple ways to get the news out even if one of those ways is as low-tech as it comes could make all the difference in the world. Federal Overhaul is a multipart series that explores the impact of the Trump administrations restructuring of the federal government on Black communities. Black teenager JaLiyah Celestine said that last year at her Texas high school, an officer pepper-sprayed her, grabbed her by hair, and kneed her in her face. A federal civil rights complaint was filed on her behalf and on behalf of other Black students, alleging that Beaumont Independent School District violated Title IV and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by discriminating against them and disproportionately subjecting them to law enforcement referrals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear what will happen with that case and thousands of similar ones across the country. The U.S. Supreme Court this month allowed the Trump administration to continue with its plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and shutter seven of its 12 Office for Civil Rights locations, including the Dallas office, which was overseeing Celestines claim. Advocates fear that students will be denied the resources they need to protect their basic rights at school. Over the past six months, weve received no meaningful communication about the case, Andrew Hairston, the director of the Education Justice Project at the nonprofit Texas Appleseed, which filed the complaint, told Capital B. The Office for Civil Rights being eviscerated like this curtails the ability of lawyers and advocates to use some of the tools available to us. In their complaint, attorneys pointed to federal data showing that while Black students represented 59.6% of enrollees in Celestines school district during the 2020-2021 academic year, they accounted for 75% of law enforcement referrals during that period. By contrast, white students represented 8.5% of enrollees and accounted for 0% of referrals. Sheria Smith shared Hairstons concerns. The president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 252, a union that represents workers at the Education Department, she had been assigned to the Dallas office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This office, she told Capital B, served Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, and it was handling many cases involving potential abuse by school officers. We were very busy because those are states that have often been hesitant to follow Brown v. Board of Education, Smith said, referring to the landmark 1954 case that desegregated public schools. Were hearing from people in the remaining offices that their caseloads have exploded. Theyre saying that the workload is impossible theyre going to do their best, but it simply isnt humanly possible, and cases are getting dismissed. To learn more about the scope of the office closures and their potential impact on the future of education for vulnerable students, read on. Which civil rights offices were abolished? The Office for Civil Rights, one of the federal governments primary mechanisms for enforcing the Civil Rights Act of 1964, previously had a presence in 12 cities: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Kansas City, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the Trump administrations erosion of the Education Department, only the offices in Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Seattle, and Washington remain open. In a 19-page dissent, Justice Sonia Sotomayor criticized the conservative majoritys decision to scale back the protections the agency affords to students. Lifting the District Courts injunction will unleash untold harm, delaying or denying educational opportunities and leaving students to suffer from discrimination, sexual assault, and other civil rights violations without the federal resources Congress intended, she wrote in her dissent, which Justices Elena Kagan and Kentanji Brown Jackson joined. Did these civil rights offices have any major achievements? The shuttered offices handled many high-profile cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, the Chicago office which served Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin found in 2022 that the Ottumwa Community School District in Iowa failed to fully address the harassment a Black student had endured for years. This abuse entailed the students peers calling him the N-word, telling him to go pick cotton, and mimicking George Floyds murder by kneeling on a Gatorade bottle. Following the investigation, district officials agreed to take a number of corrective steps, including covering the students therapy services, releasing an antiharassment statement, and offering programs for students on issues such as discrimination. That same year, the San Francisco office, which served California, resolved two significant cases involving students with disabilities. In one, the Davis Joint Unified School District agreed to revise its crisis management policies following the death of a student with autism who had been restrained. And in the other, the Los Angeles Unified School District agreed to provide the legally required services such as behavior and speech therapies that it had not appropriately delivered to students with disabilities at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Were there any patterns in which civil rights offices were closed? Smith said that she and some of her peers have yet to learn whether there was any kind of logic behind the closures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its curious to shut down offices that had especially high caseloads, she said, referring to busy locations such as Dallas and Chicago. Weve heard that caseloads [for investigating attorneys in other offices who must now juggle extra work] have exploded from about 50 cases to 359 cases. Madison Biedermann, the deputy assistant secretary for communications strategy at the Education Department, defended the overhaul of the civil rights offices, saying that its for the benefit of students. OCRs staff is composed of top-performing personnel with years of experience enforcing federal civil rights laws, she told Capital B in a statement. We are confident that the dedicated staff of OCR will deliver on its statutory responsibilities while working to resolve the longstanding backlog left by the previous administration. At least 240 of the estimated 570 Office for Civil Rights employees were fired, according to NPR. These cuts were part of the larger workforce reduction occurring within the Education Department. An estimated 1,300 agency employees or one-third of the total staff were targeted for elimination. What will be the short-term and long-term impact? More immediately, advocates worry that more cases will be dropped since the remaining offices wont have the staff necessary to investigate claims. And those claims that are investigated might be delayed, given the departments preexisting backlog of thousands of cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were 15 months removed from [Celestines] incident, Hairston said, noting that she has graduated from high school and will soon start her cosmetology studies. He added that, though ideally cases are resolved while students are still in school, its already often true that kids have to wait an excruciatingly long period of time to receive even the most modest amount of relief for what has been done to them. Looking further ahead, Smith is concerned about what might await Black students across parts of the South, where some states havent willingly followed legal guidelines. The Brown v. Board of Education decision, she said, came out in 1954, but in Texas, there was litigation decades later that sought to integrate public schools. So you eliminated the oversight for states that have historically not been compliant with federal law when you eliminated these offices, Smith explained. Students with disabilities might also get left behind, according to advocates. A ProPublica analysis found that, of the about 12,000 complaints that were being investigated when President Donald Trumps second term began, about 6,000 were disability claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black students receiving special education services are anywhere from two to three times more likely than their white counterparts to be suspended, said Cheryl Poe, the founder and executive director of Advocating 4 Kids Inc., a special education advocacy organization. While white students get support and access to functional behavior assessments, behavior intervention plans, and related services, Black students are pushed into the school-to-prison pipeline, she told Capital B. But the saving grace, to some degree, was that parents and advocates could use avenues such as the Office for Civil Rights to file complaints. How else can students seek relief? Advocates are taking stock of different ways to defend students rights, including by going through state and federal courts, Hairston said. He was thinking specifically of Section 1983 claims, a federal statute that permits people to sue certain government entities if they believe that a constitutional right has been violated. Still, Hairston said, the path forward will be difficult if advocates cant rely on the full suite of governmental tools for protecting students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the Education Department has adopted Trumps priorities. Within weeks of the start of Trumps second term, the agency opened probes into five Northern Virginia school districts. It claimed that the districts policies allowing transgender students to use facilities that align with their gender breaks federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in schools. The department has also directed its attention toward the alleged discrimination that white students face and toward policies that support diversity, equity, and inclusion. It launched an End DEI portal earlier this year that was touted by the far-right group Moms for Liberty as a means of getting schools to focus on teaching their kids practical skills like reading, writing, and math, instead of pushing critical theory, rogue sex education, and divisive ideologies. Often what were seeking when we submit complaints on behalf of Black children is a remediation of past discrimination and an acknowledgement that slavery, Jim Crow segregation, and mass incarceration inform how Black children receive their education in 2025, Hairston said. But now theres been this unfortunate twisting of our countrys civil rights laws by the federal government at a time when we should be making sure that all children can succeed. The post Shuttering Civil Rights Offices Could Affect Students Ability to Address Discrimination appeared first on Capital B News. U.S. Air Forces Global Strike Command (AFGSC) has ordered an indefinite pause in the use of M18 pistols following a recent fatal incident at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. This comes just two weeks after the disclosure of an FBI report that added to long-standing concerns about the ability of Sig Sauer P320-series pistols, a family that includes the M18, to fire without their triggers being pulled. Just days after that report became public, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a permanent ban on the use of P320s. TWZ just recently published an in-depth story on the FBI report and the fallout from it, including Sigs refutation of the testing results, which you can find here. Air Force Global Strike Command has paused use of the M18 Modular Handgun System, effective July 21, 2025, until further notice, AFGSC spokesperson Charles Moose Hoffman has now confirmed to TWZ. This decision was made following a tragic incident at F.E. Warren AFB, WY, on July 20, 2025, which resulted in the death of a Security Forces Airman. A member of the U.S. Air Force fires an M18 pistol. USAF The Modular Handgun System (MHS), which is a U.S. Army-managed program, includes the full-size M17 pistol and the compact M18. Both are variants of the Sig P320, and you can read more about their specific features and the underlying design here. The Army picked Sig as the winner of its MHS competition in 2017, and all branches of the U.S. military within the Department of Defense subsequently adopted M17/M18 pistols as their standard sidearms. An M18 pistol, at top, and an M17 pistol, at bottom, as delivered to the U.S. Army in 2017. US Army Now, out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the safety and security of our personnel, the pause will remain in place pending the completion of comprehensive investigations by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the AFGSC Safety office, AFGSCs Hoffman added. During this period, Security Forces Airmen will be equipped with the M4 rifle, ensuring no lapse in AFGSCs security posture. Members of the 90th Security Forces Squadron seen training with M4s in 2021. USAF While the investigations are underway, AFGSC is collaborating with the Air Force Security Forces Center and Headquarters Air Force Security Forces to conduct a thorough review of the M18 and develop appropriate corrective measures, he continued. Furthermore, Security Forces Combat Arms Airmen at all AFGSC bases will conduct 100% inspections of the M18 handguns to identify any immediate safety concerns. Advertisement Advertisement The details above align with the contents of a leaked memo dated July 21 and signed by AFGSC Commander Gen. Thomas Bussiere about the M18 ban that is now circulating online. Authorities at F.E. Warren had put out a press release on July 21 stating that an active-duty Airman assigned to the 90th Security Forces Squadron, 90th Missile Wing, died on base while on duty in the early morning, July 20, 2025, but that no further details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation. A post on the unofficial Air Force amn/nco/snco Facebook group suggests that U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) may now be considering taking similar action based on the incident at F.E. Warren. TWZ has also reached out to USAFE. There are additional as-yet unconfirmed claims circulating online that the airman assigned to the 90th Security Forces Squadron died after their M18 went off without the trigger being pulled. The individual in question is claimed to have removed the pistol, still in its holster, from their belt and put it on a table before it went off. Advertisement Advertisement If true, this is eerily similar to an incident involving a Michigan State Police (MSP) M18 PRO LE, a commercial version of the pistol with notable differences from the U.S. military standard type, which occurred last July. The MSP pistol experienced an apparent uncommanded discharge while still in its holster, which was still attached to an officers belt at the time. Thankfully, no injuries resulted in that instance. This was the incident that led to the recently disclosed report from the FBIs Ballistic Research Facility (BRF). Left and right-hand views of the MSP M18 PRO LE pistol that was involved in the incident in July 2024 that led to the recently disclosed FBI report. FBI A reliable test could not be developed at the time of this document to test the effectiveness of the secondary sear notch. However, testing did indicate with movements representing those common to a law enforcement officer it is possible to render the Striker Safety Lock inoperable and ineffective at preventing the striker from impacting a chambered round if complete sear engagement is lost, the FBIs report concluded. It is important to note that the Striker Safety Lock, by design, is the last safety in line to prevent an unintended discharge as it is in place to protect against a secondary sear notch override. While examination of the subject weapon did not independently provide evidence of an uncommanded discharge it does indicate that it may be possible if sear engagement is lost. The disabling of the striker safety lock through movement and friction creates a condition which merits further exploration to fully assess potential risk, it continued. BRF recommends that MSP weigh the content of this report with the outcome of the internal investigation in making its final determination related to the Sig Sauer M18 as an issued firearm within the department. Sig pushed back last week on the FBI reports conclusions and criticized the bureaus testing methods. The company told TWZ that the FBI could not reproduce its initial results using a mutually agreed-upon testing protocol that the two parties subsequently developed. For years, Sig has categorically insisted that it is impossible for P320-series pistols to fire without the trigger being pulled. We have reached back out to them for comment in light of the developments at AFGSC. The P320. It ends today. pic.twitter.com/bZZMXGKK1v SIG SAUER (@sigsauerinc) March 7, 2025 The video below, which is cited in the recently disclosed FBI BRF report, details the five separate mechanical actions Sig Sauer says are required for any P320 to fire. The Army also told TWZ last week that it did not intend to take any actions regarding its MHS pistols in response to the FBI report. We had also reached out to the Air Force, as well as the Marine Corps and the Navy, but did not immediately receive responses. Advertisement Advertisement It is also worth noting that there have been incidents involving possible uncommanded discharges of U.S. military M17/M18 pistols, including ones in Air Force service, in the past. This reflects broader allegations of the potential for P320-series pistols to go off without their triggers being pulled. There were also drop safety issues in the past, which Sig says it has mitigated through changes to the guns design. Many law enforcement agencies and training academies across the United States have permanently prohibited the use of P320-series pistols over safety concerns. As mentioned, within days after the FBIs report becoming public, ICE issued its new ban on the P320. What the results of the Air Forces investigation into the recent fatal incident at F.E. Warren will ultimately determine, and how that might impact future use of M17 and M18 pistols across the U.S. military, remains to be seen. Update 7/23/2025: Our hearts are with the service members and families impacted by the recently reported event at the F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Phil Strader, Vice President of Consumer Affairs at Sig Sauer, has now told TWZ in a statement. We have offered assistance to the U.S. Military as they investigate the incident and remain willing to help in furtherance of their ongoing investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Strader also reiterated Sigs objections to the conclusions regarding the striker safety lock in the recently disclosed FBI BRF report. As I mentioned, the reason for this conclusion was a result of cutting a viewing window into the side of the slide and, thus, removing all support material to help hold the striker safety spring in place, he said. Even without this much needed support, the spring only shifted on the post and was still functional after repeated striking with a hammer. These conclusions were made without this understanding. Furthermore, the FBI was manually forcing the sear downward using a punch (similar to what was done by some less refined internet/YouTube testing), Strader added. The sear works in relationship to the trigger bar. The trigger bar is attached to the trigger. When the sear is pushed down, the trigger is being moved rearwardessentially, the trigger is being pulled, just by a different mechanism. We could most likely agree that forcing a downward movement of the sear would replicate or be equivalent to a drop with the grip module down/muzzle parallel to the ground, right? In the last 7 years, we have recorded 1186 drops of various P320 models at 75-, 90-, and 105-degree angles (grip down orientations) at a height of 6 feet directly on concrete with zero failures, he continued. When the FBI re-tested this using a method that BOTH the FBI and SIG SAUER agreed to, they attempted 565 forced downward movements of the sear over 19 different striker assemblies with zero failures. Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, when Michigan State Police was presented with the FBIs supplemental report, they continued to field their M18 pistols and only purchased new weapon lights and holsters that would help mitigate larger light bearing holster intrusions into the trigger guard, Strader noted. Strader also provided a response to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements (ICE) decision regarding their issue of P320 pistols. There was a 2nd page of the memo that did not get publicized. This additional page explains in more detail DHS-ICEs plan to replace their P320 since they were at the end of their 1yr contract extension [emphasis in the original], he explained. However, the 10-day implementation to replace approximately 19,000 pistols, holsters, etc was obviously unrealistic and places all DHS-ICE officers armed with their issued firearm in violation as of July 19th. DHS-ICE has recently reached out to SIG SAUER to discuss extension of their P320 contract for another year during their transition, he added. Advertisement Advertisement We will continue to test the P320 and investigate every claim. We are confident that the results will continue to be the samethe P320 can only fire with the trigger is pulled. Contact the author: joe@twz.com Train rides across the Quad Cities will become available this fall. The Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (RRHMA) will prepare a train built more than 50 years ago for two passenger rides the weekend of Sept. 20. RRHMA is calling the train the Centennial because it was made 100 years after the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. It seats around 450 people. Managers at the site believe its the perfect vehicle to teach people all about trains and their extensive history. (Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com) People dont get to ride locomotives like this very often and we dont get to share history with them as much as we want to, said Aspen Welker, a spokesperson for RRHMA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upcoming trips to Wilton, Iowa. and Bureau Junction, Illinois, will give passengers plenty of time to brush up on their history. Theres lots of history left behind and theres lots to learn going up and down the tracks here, said Welker. A restoration specialist says what theyre doing now is not unlike what this spot was used for a long time ago. The Rock Island Railroad built this place in 1903 to rebuild steam locomotives and here we are almost 110 years later, doing the exact same thing building steam locomotives, said Scott Dolanc, a restoration specialist for RRHMA. Everythings kind of come full circle for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After these first trips, RRHMA will go full steam ahead with their future. This trip is hopefully going to lay the groundwork for future trips with all of our equipment here at the shop, said Welker. We would like to get it out and run it as much as possible to share this railroad history with everyone. Those rides will be available Sept. 20 and Sept. 21. The train to Wilton leaves the station at 9 a.m. For tickets information, visit 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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A man from Sioux City, Iowa, has been sentenced after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon. Romario Pierre-Louis, 30, of Sioux City, pleaded guilty to the charge on March 6, 2025. Evidence and documents alleged he hid weapons at a neighbors house. Because Pierre-Louis was previously convicted of an armed carjacking in Illinois, he was not legally allowed to own or possess firearms. On July 18, 2025, he was sentenced in Sioux City to 63 months in prison, which is a little over five years. After prison, he must serve a three-year term of supervised release. Advertisement 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. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Many people know someone experiencing mental health issues, or maybe you have battled anxiety, depression, or other conditions that affect everyday life. There are incredible resources designed specifically to help, and on Tuesday, many local non-profits and clinics took part in the Siouxland Chamber of Commerces Second Annual Mental Health and Awareness Expo. More than 40 agencies were on hand helping to educate the public, with hopes of taking the stigma out of the topic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Story continues below Chamber Ambassador, Chandler Todd, said, Mental health has been a consistent issue, especially around Sioux City, and around Iowa. And, so, however we can find the multiple outlets that weve got here in Siouxland to help people in need, and any kind of mental health need, I think is a priority for not only us as a community, but as a chamber. Organizers for the Expo said that each year it continues to grow. This year, the Expo was held at the Sioux City Convention Center on Tuesday afternoon. Advertisement 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. The sister of an Idaho university student murder victim demanded her killer sit up straight while delivering a powerful victim impact statement to his sentencing hearing. A judge ordered Bryan Kohberger to serve four life sentences without parole for brutally stabbing four University of Idaho students to death nearly three years ago. During a hearing on Wednesday, the families of Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Kaylee Goncalves described the anguish they have felt since Kohbergers murders in the early morning hours of Nov 13 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alivea Goncalves ordered Kohberger to sit up straight when I speak to you as she read an impassioned statement to the court in Boise, Idaho. I wont offer you tears, I wont offer you trembling. Disappointments like you feed on fear, she said, labelling him pathetic and a loser Alivea Goncalves, the sister of murder victim Kaylee Goncalves, reads an impassioned statement to the court in Boise, Idaho - Kyle Green/Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved Her furious tone was matched by the rest of her family, who expressed disappointment that Kohberger would escape the death penalty but were glad he would suffer in prison. You picked the wrong family, and were laughing at you on your way to the pen, Ms Goncalvess father, Steve, said as he moved the witness stand to face Koehberger directly, drawing applause from the courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Steven Hippler called Kohberger the worst of the worst as he handed down his sentence. Choking back tears, Mr Hippler described Kohberger as a faceless coward who had committed grotesque acts of evil. Parents who brought children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, he said. Kohberger declined the opportunity to speak and appeared emotionless as he heard the news that he will spend the rest of his life in jail. Dylan Mortensen, a student who was in the house during the stabbings but was not targeted, described how she had to sleep in her mothers bed afterwards to cope with the fear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had to sleep in my moms bed, she said while heaving on the stand. I cant breathe, I cant think, I cant stop shaking. Dylan Mortensen is embraced after delivering her statement - Kyle Green/via REUTERS Bethany Funke, another roommate, issued a statement in which she described the day her four friends died as the worst day of my life, and I know it always will be. Throughout their statements, Kohberger slouched in his chair and remained stoney-faced as he stared back at his victimss families. Kohberger was a graduate student at Washington State University when he broke into a nearby home being rented by a group of university students through a kitchen sliding door. He stabbed four of the students, who appeared to have no connection with him, to death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ben Mogen, the father of Maddie Mogen, described his child who was murdered by Kohberg as the only great thing that I ever really did and spoke of having to collect her university diploma on her behalf after her death. Mogens step-father, Scott Laramie, said he would not waste the words addressing Kohberger and instead spoke of his wife, Karens, grief. She sometimes asked, how am I supposed to go on when Ive lost my favourite person in the world, he said. Scott Laramie speaks of his wife, Karens, grief - Kyle Green Police initially had no suspects, and the killings terrified the normally quiet community in the small, western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But investigators had a few critical clues. A knife sheath left near Mogens body had a single source of male DNA on the button snap, and surveillance videos showed a white Hyundai Elantra near the rental home around the time of the murders. Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect, and accessed mobile data to pinpoint his movements on the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home. Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings. He initially stood silent when asked to enter a plea, so a judge entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. Both the investigation and the court case drew widespread attention. Bryan Kohberger in court - Kyle Green/Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved Misinformation enshrouded the case, with online detectives pointing fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the criminal case unfolded, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson announced that he would seek the death penalty if Kohberger was convicted. The court-defence team, led by attorney Anne Taylor, challenged the validity of the DNA evidence, unsuccessfully pushed to get theories about possible alternate perpetrators admitted in court, and repeatedly asked the judge to take the death penalty off of the table. But those efforts largely failed, and the evidence against Kohberger was strong. With an August trial looming, Kohberger reached a plea deal. Prosecutors agreed to drop their efforts to get a death sentence in exchange for Kohbergers guilty plea to four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. Both sides agreed to a proposed sentence of four consecutive life sentences without parole, plus an additional 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger also waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Hippler sentenced Kohberger to 10 years for burglary and four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole, along with $270,000 in fines and civil penalties. 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. "You can't walk the streets there are lots of Arabs on mopeds and ATVs. Every noise of wheels, and you look up in fear," one boy told N12. A group of six Israeli teens was attacked in Rhodes, Greece, early Wednesday morning, N12 reported. The group of six young Israelis said that a group of pro-Palestinian individuals from Turkey was waiting for them outside the club. They violently assaulted them, hit them, kicked them, and recorded one of the teens during the attack. Several of the teens received light injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We immediately decided to leave, went out the back to an alley, and in hindsight, that was a mistake. Suddenly, we saw 20-25 people, looking Arab, start chasing us," one of the boys told N12. The assault occurred shortly after a demonstration on the island of Syros, in which activists tried to prevent tourists arriving from Israel on a passenger ship from entering Greece. It remains unclear whether there is any direct connection between the two events. However, the timing and the national identity of the victims have raised concerns among their families. "You can't walk the streets there are lots of Arabs on mopeds and ATVs. Every noise of wheels, and you look up in fear," one boy added. Pro-Palestinian protesters prevent Israeli passengers from disembarking a ferry in Syros, Greece, July 22, 2025. (credit: SCREENSHOT/X/VIA SECTION 27A OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT) 'An overwhelming sense of helplessness' At just past 4:30 a.m., one of the teens, Shachar Gutman, texted his parents urgently as the group chased him. He later called, explaining that he had managed to escape the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I jumped over a wall, Im hiding," he wrote, adding that he did not know where his friends were. Orit Gutman, Shachar's mother, explained her feelings of helplessness in the situation to Walla. "They were six friends on a five-day vacation. On the last night, they went to the most Israeli club on the island. Thats where it happened. The moment we got his message that he was running away, we felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness," she said. "It took me straight back to the morning of October 7. For a moment, I froze. Suddenly, you find yourself asking, whats the right thing to tell your child? Run? Be quiet? Fight? We were caught in a storm." A person who was interested in buying a home in Statesville, N.C., discovered skeletal remains during a visit to the property. On Wednesday, July 16, a person, who thought the home on Newton Drive was abandoned, walked to the back of the residence and found the human remains, Fox affiliate WJZY, CBS affiliate WBTV and the Statesville Record & Landmark reported. After a call to 911 was placed, authorities arrived and confirmed the remains found in the area of the driveway were human, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office told WJZY. At the time, officials werent able to identify the deceased persons identity because of the state of decomposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the appearance of the body, the person had been deceased for quite a while, Major Troy Miller of the Iredell County Sheriffs Office told WBTV. Two days after the disturbing discovery, the remains were identified as Kevin Queen of Statesville, according to the outlets. Authorities told the Statesville Record that the 50-year-old man had been living at the residence before he died. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. According to WJZY, investigators believe that Queen died of natural causes and have ruled out foul play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Iredell County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment and the the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner could not provide further information about the case. Read the original article on People As the FCC reviews its proposed acquisition of Paramount Global, Skydance has committed to create an ombudsman position to review complaints of bias at CBS News. In a pair of filings Wednesday, Skydance also said that it would end any diversity, equity and inclusion policies that were in place at Paramount. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ombudsman role will be in place for a period of two years, and will report to the president of the new Paramount company. Emphasizing that the commitment was voluntary, Skydance said that the ombudsman will promote transparency and accountability. Skydance said in the filing that the new management of Paramount will ensure that the companys array of news and entertainment programming embodies a diversity of viewpoints across the political and ideological spectrum, consistent with the varying perspectives of the viewing audience. Skydance recognizes that, as a broadcast licensee, it will be charged with operating in the public interest, and the company intends to undertake a comprehensive review of CBS and make any necessary changes to ensure compliance with that standard. In all respects, Skydance will ensure that CBSs reporting is fair, unbiased and fact-based. Skydances general counsel, Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon, noted that the FCC, in evaluating Comcasts proposed acquisition of NBCUniversal in 2011, found that an ombudsman was a mechanism effective in preventing editorial bias in the operation of the NBC broadcast network. At the time, the concern was that NBC News maintain its journalistic independence from corporate influence. Previous owner GE had established an ombudsman to further ensure that the news division was independent, the FCC noted then, and Comcast offered to retain that role, even though they contended that there was no legal requirement that they do so. Citing the ombudsman role, the FCC did not place any news conditions on the transaction other than an agreement to journalistic independence of the news operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In previous filings, Skydance and Paramount have pushed back against other proposed conditions on news programming. The conservative group Center for American Rights had proposed a commitment to viewpoint neutrality, including benchmarks to meet, but the companies said that such an FCC condition is squarely foreclosed by the First Amendment and Supreme Court precedent. Such a condition would would entangle the commission with broadcast editorial policies, the companies argued, and are not transaction specific. In the filing, Skydances McKinnon also wrote that it will work closely with its affiliated broadcast stations to ensure a productive partnership, including by considering technological improvements, investments in local news resources and other measures that bolster local broadcasting. CBS affiliates have raised concerns with the FCC over CBS control over their finances, renewal practices, program exclusivity and virtual MVPD negotiations. FCC chairman Brendan Carr also has raised issues of the financial power dynamics between networks and affiliates. In a meeting with Carr last week, Skydance CEO David Ellison discussed the companys commitment to promoting non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity at New Paramount, ensuring the company is fully compliant with law, according to a separate filing. Carr has warned that companies with DEI policies will have trouble getting their transactions approved. He has claimed that DEI policies are a form of invidious discrimination. In McKinnons letter, she wrote that Paramount in February eliminated or modified DEI programs across the company to ensure that they are consistent with the companys commitment to equal opportunity and governing law. That included eliminating what McKinnon called aspirational goals related to hiring of female employees and people of color, as well as eliminating an office of global inclusion, removal of DEI objectives in compensation and promotions, and removing DEI messaging in its public and internal communication. Employee resource groups will be centrally managed by human resources with corporate oversight of their events, and will remain open to all, McKinnon wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Paramount Global and Donald Trump filed a joint notice of dismissal with a federal court in Texas that closed out the presidents lawsuit against CBS News. That followed Paramounts $16 million settlement of Trumps lawsuit against the network over the way that 60 Minutes edited an interview with Kamala Harris. Trump, though, wrote on Truth Social that they anticipate receiving an additional $20 million in PSAs and advertising from Skydance. Paramount has said that the settlement did not include PSAs or commercial spots, and that it has has no knowledge of any promises or commitments made to President Trump other than those set forth in the settlement proposed by the mediator and accepted by the parties. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. HANAHAN, S.C. (WCBD) A former Hanahan police sergeant has been charged with misconduct in office. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division announced Wednesday charges against 31-year-old Carlos Juan Fernando Reyna Hernandez. According to an affidavit, Hernandez is accused of stealing multiple tools that were stored for safekeeping or found property from the Hanahan Police Departments evidence processing room on four occasions, which were captured on video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The affidavit states that Hernandez admitted to taking the tools and using some of them to build a deck at his residence. Additionally, a box of multiple pieces of HPD evidence from multiple cases was also recovered at the defendants residence, documents say. The documents further say that Hernandez admitted he did not turn the evidence in to the evidence room as required, and said the evidence was without proper paperwork regarding its whereabouts. Hernandez was booked into the Hill-Finklea Detention Center. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) delivers her maiden speech on the Senate floor. July 23, 2025 | Screenshot Continuing a long running tradition, Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) gave her maiden speech on the Senate Floor on Wednesday, using her first formal remarks to the chamber to lay out her plan to deliver for Michigans middle class. Michigan is where my family achieved that very American dream. My great grandfather, at 13 years old, came through Ellis Island, not speaking English. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He ended up starting a meat company, moved to Michigan and built that business and built an iconic hot dog that Michiganders have enjoyed for 60 years, Slotkin said. However, too many families are falling out of the middle class and too many are not able to make it into that group, Slotkin said, noting that Michigans factories, farms and small businesses used to serve as a pathway to the middle class. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Over the years, Ive watched younger generations of those same families live a very different story. Parents cant provide for their kids what was provided to them. That fishing cabin up north, that dad had, the son cant have. A trip to Disneyland? Cant do it. Across Michigan, there are so many families who feel like hard work doesnt seem to be enough anymore, Slotkin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past 40 years the middle class has shrunk, Slotkin said, noting shes personally witnessed what happens when people feel like they cannot get ahead. They feel anger, they feel shame, they lose their dignity, and they look for something or someone to blame. In a multi-racial, multi-ethnic experiment in democracy, people end up blaming people who dont look like them or speak like them or pray like them, Slotkin said. In order to understand the anger and polarization in our politics, all you have to do is understand the shrinking middle class, Slotkin said. In order to revive the middle class, the government needs to get back to the basics, Slotkin said. These basics are jobs that pay you enough to save every month, healthcare, you can actually afford a home you can call your own, schools that prepare our kids for the workforce, energy to power our lives, an environment we can pass on to our kids and safety and security from fear. That is it, Slotkin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking to jobs, there needs to be job creation for Michigans middle class in order to create the jobs of the future, she said, noting that artificial intelligence has the potential to change our economy more than the internet did. Productivity will go up, jobs will be gained, but jobs will also be lost, maybe not Michigan jobs at first, entry level college jobs like paralegals or accountants are probably first on the list. But change is coming, and we need to be ready, Slotkin said. Part of that readiness means supporting small businesses, Slotkin said. It also means bringing industries and supply chains back from overseas, Slotkin said, arguing that foreign nations should not get a veto on the nations economic security. Finally, let us say it very clearly, we need an immigration system that actually works and is key to our economy. Immigrants are critical for our labor shortages in our factories, in our hospitals, in our firms. More than that, we are a nation of immigrants, Slotkin said, calling for an immigration plan that brings legal, vetted immigrants into the country and border policy that makes sense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking to health care, Slotkin said there are few things in her mind as broken as the American health care system. Every American deserves access to health care they can afford regardless of your job, regardless of your income or your age. So I support a nationwide public insurance plan, at a reasonable price, for every American, she said. Additionally, in every part of the American health care system, we need to be able to negotiate the cost of drugs, Slotkin said, speaking out against the influence of corporate money in politics. Looking to housing, Slotkin noted that the U.S. Senate, today, could declare a housing state of emergency, calling for Michigan to be the ground zero in responding to the need for 4 million units of housing across the nation. America needs to make sure schools are actually preparing kids for the future, Slotkin said, calling for an overhaul of federal job training programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally she warned that without a plan on energy now, Americans could be seeing rolling blackouts and brownouts in a decade. She called for an all of the above energy plan, criticizing conservative politicians for opposing certain energy sources like solar and wind because they are woke. Michiganders have also been tasked with the stewardship of the Great Lakes, Slotkin stressed, before noting the tangible impacts of climate change on the state. Michiganders understand that extreme weather is real. It is here. They feel it in their pocketbooks. We have to mitigate it. We have to accept it, and we have to be ready to prepare ourselves when we have these crazy ice storms, these crazy once in a generation tornadoes, Slotkin said. When looking at national security, Slotkin called out China, arguing the U.S. cannot let that country control our national debt, and that the U.S. must maintain a dominant presence across the globe to compete with China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the U.S. is in the midst of an extremely divided period, Slotkin said Michiganders know how to survive bad times by rallying together, helping one another and getting back into the fight. As elected leaders and certainly as a senator, I have a responsibility to chart the path through the dark tunnel and into the light, not by just complaining and whinging that its all bad, but by charting a strategy from beginning to end on how we get through this moment.It is my job as that next generation of leader to change the course of this place and this country and I commit to you: I will not let you down, she said. ST. LOUIS The St. Louis Public Schools Board (SLPS) is reviewing a proposal that would shut down 37 schools, the largest potential closure in city history. The recommendation follows the May 16 tornado, which displaced more than 2,000 students and heavily impacted schools on the north side. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News The district says most schools on the closure list are underused or in poor condition, with buildings averaging nearly 80 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If approved, the plan could save up to $183 millionfunds SLPS says would be reinvested in stronger programs like music, art and mental health services. Officials say the plan isnt just about cutting buildings: its about stabilizing and strengthening the district. Theyre also exploring new construction on the north side to replace what was lost in the storm. This meeting was the first in whats expected to be a year-long conversation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ARROWSIC, Maine After national companies declined to extend internet service to this small midcoast town, it built its own network. Now one of those giants is moving in. The Arrowsic Broadband Authority was formed at a special town meeting in 2020 to manage the system. In March 2024, the first of Arrowsics roughly 500 residents got broadband service for the first time. It took the town nearly a decade and more than $1 million in federal and private funding. This spring, locals started receiving mailers from Fidium, which offers broadband in eight states, offering service at starting rates significantly lower than those offered by the town. Now, local officials are urging residents not to switch to maintain their business model. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are a very small network, Vince Capone, a commissioner on the local broadband authority, said. We are literally on the edge of maintaining that network because we have such a small customer base. Fidiums parent company said competition with the town was not central to its expansion. But it echoes past tension in Maine towns between incumbent broadband providers and municipality-owned networks. An industry group advertised against proposed networks that were rejected in 2022 by Readfield and Southport voters. Within weeks, Fidium will offer starting rates of $30 per month to Arrowsic residents, according to the mailers. Those rates will increase after one year of service. A service with similar download speeds from the local authoritys partner, Axiom Technologies, costs $49.99 per month. Most of the town more than 200 homes and businesses out of roughly 235 is signed up. Eventually, the Arrowsic authority will pay into the towns budget. But since it is responsible for its own equipment and storm damage repairs, officials are first aiming to put away a few hundred thousand dollars for future maintenance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials estimate that as early as 2029, the authority could pay Arrowsic about $50,000 a year if large numbers of residents dont switch to Fidium. Losing even 20 percent of its customer base would be a critical problem, Capone said. The towns financial risk is limited. It has no debt connected to the broadband project, which was largely funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. However, officials said that if the authority is unable to build its reserves to meet demand for storm repairs, the town could be forced to dip into its own savings or borrow money to keep the network afloat. Fidiums arrival has flummoxed local officials, partly because its parent company, Consolidated Communications, declined to build broadband infrastructure in Arrowsic years earlier, said Don Hudson, another commissioner. It came as some surprise when all of a sudden we started seeing, essentially, a duplicated system being built on top of ours, he said. If it wasnt actually happening, it would be laughable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consolidated Communications, Fidiums parent, owns many of the telephone poles in town. The local group had to pay tens of thousands of dollars to put its cables on them. That ownership has made it simple for Fidium to begin installing its own fiber without any approval from Arrowsic officials. Machias-based internet service provider Axiom Technologies runs the towns broadband service. Its CEO, Mark Ouellette, was also surprised to hear of Fidiums entrance into Arrowsic. His company, which provides internet to several Maine towns, isnt backing down. Typically, when another provider is in the community with fiberoptics, its quite a challenging business case to be made to build out fiber on top of fiber already there, especially in small places, he said. We are going to make a strong case that community cyber connectivity is an important asset for the community because we return a percentage of our fees to the customer, back to the town. The towns infrastructure is connected to the neighboring city of Bath, where around 9,700 homes and businesses are set to be connected to broadband through Fidiums ongoing upgrades. Arrowsics new infrastructure was spillover, company spokesperson Kyle Thweatt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providing more fiber connectivity options in communities benefits everybody in that area, Thweatt said. Whether or not locals will switch remains to be seen, but officials in Arrowsic said they were confident residents would see the benefits of local control. People who live in Arrowsic have a great fondness for Arrowsic, Hudson said of his neighbors. And they really love this network that we built. Daniel OConnor is a Report for America corps member who covers rural politics as part of the partnership between The Maine Monitor and the Bangor Daily News, with additional support from BDN and Monitor readers. The Smyrna City Council approved a partnership with Google Fiber at Mondays meeting. Going forward, Google will be able to access public right of ways to install lines across the city for high-speed internet. According to council documents, the request from Google Fiber was made due to their need to install new infrastructure to be able to provide constituents with fiber network to be able to utilize TV and Wi-Fi capabilities. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The text of the license agreement between Smyrna and Google Fiber says that the internet deal for installation is non-exclusive and says the cost of installation and materials are solely the responsibility of Google Fiber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional information in the agreement shows that the fiber wiring will be installed in parts of the city where all transmission and distribution facilities of the public utilities providing electric and communications services are required by city code. RELATED STORIES: Installation of fiber must also be done with reasonable care to minimize any potential risks to people and property, risks of soil erosion and pollution of surface or groundwater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Google Fiber will also have to pay the City of Smyrna a franchise fee equal to 2% of gross revenue for use of public right of ways. Smyrna is not the only city in the metro Atlanta area that has or will have an agreement with Google Fiber for installation. One example in the nearby area is Brookhaven, which recently suspended further installations of Google Fiber due to disruptions to gas and water utilities related to construction work. The City of Brookhaven issued a stop work order for Google Fiber on Dec. 14, 2024, after a gas main was ruptured near an elementary school. The stop order was lifted, with caveats, a few days later in the sprit of progress, Brookhaven Mayor John Park said previously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 2 Action News reached out to City of Smyrna staff and a representative for Google Fiber to ask about what steps the city is taking to mitigate or prevent similar circumstances. Like in Brookhaven, Smyrna officials said that should work to install Google Fiber not proceed as expected, a stop work order would be possible. In the meantime, the citys staff will monitor developments. All work will require permits, the agreement between Google Fiber and the city sets requirements for safety and preventing damage to the public. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A snake thought to be the tiniest in the world is making a big splash! Earlier this year, the reclusive Barbados threadsnake was "rediscovered" during an ecological survey in central Barbados conducted by the Caribbean country's Ministry of the Environment and National Beautification (MENB) and conservation group Re:wild, the organizations announced in a July 23 press release. So small that it can fit easily on a quarter and often confused with an earthworm, the rarely spotted reptile was found under a rock during the March survey, marking its first sighting in years, according to Re:wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previously, the species had not been documented by a scientist for nearly two decades, placing it on the conservation group's lengthy "lost to science" list, which comprises over 4,800 different living species. courtesy of Professor Blair Hedges The Barbados threadsnake The Barbados threadsnake With a maximum length of 4.1 inches and an average weight of 0.02 oz., the Barbados threadsnake is "thought to be the world's smallest known snake," according to their bio on Encyclopedia Britannica The reptile's Britannica bio also states that "little is known about" the species' habits, so they are also mysterious. Or better yet, "cryptic," per Connor Blades, who helped rediscover the threadsnake species. "Barbados threadsnakes are blind snakes, so they're very cryptic. They're quite rare also, it seems," Blades, a project officer with the Ministry of Environment in Barbados, said, per Re:wild. "There have only been a handful of confirmed sightings since 1889, so there are not many people who have ever seen it, unfortunately." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the March survey part of the Conserving Barbados Endemic Reptiles project, a longtime MENB effort to find the Barbados threadsnake and other endemic reptiles Blades became one of the few people to lay eyes on the reptile in its natural habitat. Connor Blades The Barbados threadsnake The Barbados threadsnake Justin Springer, a Caribbean program officer for Re:wild, and Blades had been turning over rocks to find any trace of the rare snakes during the survey when a rock under a tree root caught their attention, according to the conservation group. Underneath, the pair spotted an earthworm and a tiny snake that, at first glance, appeared to be the rarely seen threadsnake species. "After a year of searching, you begin to get a little pessimistic," Blades told the Associated Press of their search for the snake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Echoing this, Springer said, "When you are so accustomed to looking for things and you don't see them, you are shocked when you actually find it," according to Re:wild. "You can't believe it," he added. "That's how I felt. You don't want to get your hopes up too high." Connor Blades The Barbados threadsnake The Barbados threadsnake Appearances can be deceiving, however, especially when it comes to the Barbados threadsnake. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, previous specimens of the reptile (dating to 1889, 1918, and 1963) were "erroneously classified as other species," and their identifications were corrected after biologist S. Blair Hedges first formally identified the tiny reptile in 2008. The snake is also easily confused with the Brahminy blind snake, also known as the flowerpot snake, an invasive species in Barbados, according to Re:wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So the conservationists took the specimen to the University of the West Indies to confirm the sighting. Ultimately, Blades used a microscope and video of the snake, from which he grabbed a still image, to identify his find. Connor Blades A close-up shot of a Barbados threadsnake A close-up shot of a Barbados threadsnake After confirming the identity, Blades and Springer returned the little reptile to the forest, where MENB's conservation efforts now have a path forward, thanks to the discovery. The habitat where the snake was found, Blades said, is "an important reservoir for biodiversity on the island," per Re:wild. "If the threadsnake population isn't very dense, I'm worried about their ability to find matesparticularly if their habitat is under threat and being degraded." "The threadsnake's rediscovery is also a call to all of us as Barbadians that forests in Barbados are very special and need protection," Springer added in a statement. "Not just for the threadsnake, but for other species as well. For plants, animals, and our heritage." Read the original article on People SOCORRO, Texas (KTSM) An 18-year-old man was recently arrested for physically assaulting his brother while holding a knife, according to the Socorro Police Department. Emiliano Roman Rivera Emiliano Roman Rivera, 18, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility under a $25,000 bond, according to police. Police said that shortly after 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, officers were dispatched to the 10400 block of Valle Fertil Drive about an aggravated assault in progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, officers observed Rivera physically assaulting another male while holding a knife, according to police. Police said the investigation revealed that Rivera had assaulted his brother. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SOMERSET, Ky. (FOX 56) In a few weeks, students across the state will return to the classroom, but some high school students are competing on a national stage right now. The Somerset Solar Jumpers are one of 27 teams from nine states competing in the 32nd Solar Car Challenge. The competition, though, didnt start when the team arrived in the Lone Star State last week; it has been months in the making. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over a week, the team of 13 students is competing with the best of the best, but it isnt as simple as driving as fast as you can around the track. Theres three days worth of scrutineering process, explained recent Somerset High School graduate John Lackey. Scrutineering is kind of like where judges scrutinize all the cars they have. All the cars have to pass certain checkpoints, like mechanical and electrical checkpoints, to make sure the cars are safe to compete and abide by all the different rules. And then the race itself is four days, and its an endurance-based race. So, its not how fast you can go; its how many laps you can accumulate over four days. The Jumpers are competing in the Electric Solar Division. Read more of the latest Kentucky news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last several months, the team has been designing and building its solar-powered car from the ground up. Whether the students were familiar with the building or not at the start, they caught on quickly. Ive learned a lot about the mechanical systems of the car, how solar power kind of works, and relationship with the car, and also just how to use different tools and how to work with my hands physically, Lackey said. I got the chance to ride in the car before the team headed out to Texas, and safe to say, the Jumpers know what theyre doing. Its a really unique opportunity to be able to do something like this, Lackey described. I mean, before I came into high school, Id never even heard of a solar car program. It is a very unique opportunity that weve been able to do and build different engineering skills. Its helped expose me to engineering, and beyond that, I think, because it is such a complicated process, because theres a lot of work you do. I have built very good connections with people. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for Lackey, this experience hasnt just taught him engineering skills; its also taught him people skills because, in order to go to Texas, the team needed community support. Being able to do presentations and do different public speaking and asking people for money, ask people from and then building connections with the community, Lackey detailed. Theres a lot to that besides just building physically building the car. Theres a lot that goes into it; its a large process. Wednesday is the final day of racing, and for the Jumpers, while they want to win, their main goal is to complete around 495 laps; thats the number theyve determined their car can do over the four days. If they hit that number, this opportunity will have been a success. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A new tourist visa will be launching soon that will make travelling between countries in the Gulf easier. The GCC Grand Tours Visa - also known as the Unified Tourist Visa or Unified GCC Visa - was approved in 2023. It will mean being able to visit Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates with a single permit. The aim is to streamline travel in the region and make it easier to explore multiple countries in one trip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres everything we know about when it will launch and how you can apply. What is the Gulfs Unified Tourist Visa? The Unified Tourist Visa will be a single permit that grants entry to all six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). At the moment, travellers are required to apply for separate visas for each country. With the new system, non-GCC nationals will be able to choose to apply for a single-country or a multi-country option. The unified visa will be accessed via a single portal, which also means easing the administrative burden on visitors. Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be eligible, the purpose of your visit must be tourism, a short-term stay, or seeing family and friends. The visa does not allow for employment or long-term stays. The GCC has not yet confirmed the visas validity period, but it is expected to range from 30 to 90 days. The fee has also not yet been announced, but authorities say the new multi-country option will be a cost-effective alternative to the current six separate visas for those wishing to visit all member states. The Unified Tourist Visa is expected to launch by late 2025 or early 2026. How can I apply for the Gulfs Unified Tourist Visa? The system is not yet live, but once it launches, it will be a fully online process through a dedicated portal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travellers will need to supply personal information and details of their trip, including the purpose of their visit, travel dates and intended itinerary such as transportation details between countries. They will then be asked to select a visa for a single country or multiple Gulf states. Applicants will need to upload various documents, which are likely to include a copy of a valid passport, a passport-style photo, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds to cover the trip, and a confirmed return or onward travel ticket to a non-GCC destination. Once approved, the visa will be issued via email - but travellers will also be expected to carry a printed copy with them throughout their trip. In January, the IDF withdrew from all deeper portions of Gaza it had been in, in Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and central Gaza to a security perimeter of around 700-1,100 meters around the border The impending potential deal with Hamas may include the government agreeing to an IDF withdrawal to virtually the same Gaza security perimeter that Israel held in January, sources have acknowledged to The Jerusalem Post. In January, the IDF withdrew from all deeper portions of Gaza it had been in, in Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and central Gaza to a security perimeter of around 700-1,100 meters around the Israel-Gaza border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IDF withdrawal being discussed now could leave the IDF in almost the same place, with a perimeter of around 1,100-1,200 meters. However, since Israel renewed hostilities with Hamas in March, the IDF had taken control of 75% of Gaza. While top Israeli officials had sent mixed messages on whether the IDF would hold onto the new Morag Corridor splitting Khan Yunis from Rafah in southern Gaza, many top Israeli officials' statements had indicated that the IDF would hold onto a larger slice of a security perimeter in any additional hostage and ceasefire deal. IDF soldiers operate in the Morag Corridor, in the southern Gaza Strip. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) All of this was part of the threat and leverage that Israel had employed to try to get Hamas to agree to a deal at an earlier date and to keep it under pressure to eventually hand back all of the remaining Israeli hostages that it is holding on to. Controlling the Philadelphi Corridor In fact, even discussions about a ceasefire and hostage deal back in summer 2024 included some similar terms, though Israel did achieve keeping control of the Philadelphi Corridor bordering with Egypt, which Hamas had refused in summer 2024. After South Africas first democratic elections in 1994, there was significant optimism about police reform in the country. Impressive steps were taken to bring the South African Police Service under civilian control and to create a service responsive to calls for assistance from the public. During the apartheid period, South Africas police worked to preserve the political order and pursue political opponents. It did not focus on dealing with crime. This is why the achievements of the 1990s are so important. For the first time, black South Africans could call upon officers to respond to personal emergencies. This period also saw a drop in crime levels. However, this promising early transformation was interrupted. The appointment of Jackie Selebi as national police commissioner in 2000 heralded a new era. Selebi was an African National Congress (ANC) insider. The ANC originated as a liberation movement and has governed the country since 1994. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Selebi had served as the head of the ANCs Youth League in the 1980s, when it was banned. In 1987 he was appointed to the organisations national executive committee, its highest decision-making organ. His appointment as police commissioner was the start of significant change in the purpose of policing. It marked the end of the focus on civilian control of the police force and prosecuting authorities. As an ANC insider, Selebi led efforts to establish party control over the police. This politicisation gained momentum over the next two decades. In the early years it was exemplified by the suspension of the head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Advocate Vusi Pikoli,, by then president Thabo Mbeki, amid corruption allegations against Selebi himself. Other telling developments ensued. The Scorpions were disbanded in 2009 by acting president Kgalema Motlanthe. The units job was to pursue high-profile cases against senior ANC politicians (among others). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police became increasingly entangled in the ANCs internal political conflicts. At the same time the office of the national police commissioner experienced high turnover due to intense political manoeuvring. Between 2009 and 2022, there were seven national commissioners. Recent developments have once again brought the intermingling of police work and power battles in the ANC to the fore. In early July 2025, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the commissioner of police in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, made some startling claims. He called a press conference and, wearing camouflage uniform, he implicated the minister of police, Senzo Mchunu, together with the deputy national commissioner for crime detection, in a scheme to close down investigations into political assassinations in the province. President Cyril Ramaphosa rushed back from a meeting of the Brics countries in Brazil to attend to the matter. He announced that the police minister had been placed on leave with immediate effect. He also announced a judicial inquiry into the allegations. I have conducted research into South Africas security apparatus over the last decade. Based on this work, and new research forthcoming in the Journal of Southern African Studies done with Jelena Vidojevic, co-founder of the New South Institute, it is clear that elite contestation in the ANC is intensifying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, the ability of internal party structures to manage gatekeeping is declining. Many of the people involved are indifferent or even hostile to South Africas democratic and constitutional order. As the ability of some political elites to access state resources through the party declines, some are linked with organised criminal networks. Organised crime has been on the edges of South African politics. It now risks taking a more central role. In this environment, the police service will often be the thin (blue) line between multiparty contestation according to constitutional rules and the criminalisation of politics in South Africa. The shift Large organisational changes within the police vividly illustrate this shift away from its core function. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Visible Policing programme was meant to meant to deter crime through patrols, checkpoints and roadblocks. But, instead, there was a steady decline in resource allocation. Employee numbers dropped between 2015 and 2021. Detective services and crime intelligence also experienced such declines. Conversely, employee numbers in the Protection and Security Services programme, responsible for providing bodyguards to politicians, increased sharply between 2014 and 2016. Evidence heard by the commission of inquiry into state capture suggested that some officers and budgets in the service were even used to supply President Jacob Zuma and other politicians with what amounted to a private militia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This reorientation of resources coincided with a rise in crime across the country, a decline in arrests by 24.5%, and a drop in the polices efficacy in solving crimes. Furthermore, a politicised police leadership effectively stopped policing various categories of crime. This was particularly true of offences like fraud, corruption, and certain types of theft, and particularly when politically connected persons were involved. The state capture commission heard extensive evidence about the failure of the police to pursue politically sensitive investigations. Investigations into senior officials were frequently frustrated or impeded, and cases at state-owned enterprises were abandoned. This shows how police resources were actively redirected as weapons of elite competition, pursuing political enemies and protecting allies within the ruling party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mkhwanazis claims, if substantiated, suggest that this political policing remains entrenched. What now? Ramaphosa has announced the appointment of Firoz Cachalia as the acting minister of police. Cachalia, a well regarded legal academic, served as ANC minister for community safety. Between 2019 and 2022 he was part of the ANCs national executive committee. His appointment raises serious questions. If the core problem with the police is that it has become embroiled in ANC internal politics, having an ANC insider head the ministry of police (even if only on an acting basis) threatens only to compound the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, South Africans have already witnessed a long and expensive judicial inquiry into state capture. And despite extensive evidence of police failure to pursue politically sensitive investigations, nothing concrete has come of it. How likely is it that this new initiative will be any different, especially if those investigating it and presiding over key institutions are themselves ANC insiders? To depoliticise the police service and redirect its attention and activities towards crime and emergencies, a crucial first step is to reconsider the appointment processes for the national police commissioner and other top managers. Under the current system the president has sole discretion. This bakes party-political considerations into the decision-making process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without structural changes, genuine democratic policing will remain an elusive ideal. In 2024/25 the murder rate in South Africa stood at 42 per 100,000, among the highest in the world and close to levels not seen since the early 2000s. At the very least, the minister of police must not be an ANC insider. Democratic renewal in South Africa requires bringing the police firmly under parliamentary control. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Ivor Chipkin, University of Pretoria Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Ivor Chipkin teaches public policy at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) at the University of Pretoria. He is the director of the New South Institute. SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) South Burlington School Superintendent Violet Nichols announced her resignation at a special meeting of the School Board on Tuesday. Her last day on the job will be August 1. It is with a heavy heart, but with clarity and with conviction that I announce my resignation as superintendent of the South Burlington School District. Serving this district has been the single greatest honor and professional challenge of my career, she said at the board meeting. She highlighted the districts accomplishments under her tenure, including passing a $14.5 million bond and transportation upgrades that included a new fleet of electric school buses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So. Burlington adds electric buses to fleet Her resignation comes after months of conflict with the local teachers union. The South Burlington Education Association (SBEA) has criticized what it called omissions and outright lies by the superintendent, and previously called for her resignation. The teachers union in June released a reinterpretation of a report Nichols released discussing the districts compliance with six policies on how to treat school staff. In one section of that report, Nichols wrote that the district has a policy against nepotism. SBEA added its own statement claiming that Nichols oversaw a contract assigning work to her own husband. Nichols responded that her husband was originally hired by a previous superintendent, and brought in only to conduct one annual IT project. She said that the arrangement was vetted and found to be compliant with the districts nepotism policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Education transformed: Scott signs major school tax bill SBEA said that Nichols retaliated against teachers who disagreed with her, declined sexual harassment cases brought by teachers, and denied leave requests and professional development opportunities, claims that were called categorically untrue by the superintendent. They said she was in compliance on only one of the six policies preparing staff for emergency situations. At a meeting on June 12, Kristin Romick, executive director of educational support services in the district, criticized the unions call for Nichols to resign, calling it politically motivated and saying that Nichols has been diligently working behind the scenes. If union leadership directed half the effort currently spent on confrontation towards meaningful collaboration, we could truly begin to make more progress for everyone involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Burlington School District pushing for established school zones At a South Burlington School Board meeting on June 18, a majority of the board agreed with at least some of the criticisms leveled by SBEA, saying that Nichols did not have an adequate plan for compliance with the six policies in their report. Nichols did not provide public comment regarding the accusations, but instead chose to meet with the board in private for discussion. On June 24, the school board chose to draft a performance improvement plan for the superintendent in a 5 to 1 vote, with one member abstaining. Board member Tim Warren, who dissented in that vote, announced his own resignation last Friday. In a statement to the board, Warren protested the rest of the boards dismissive attitude and treatment of Nichols. He praised the superintendents efforts at Tuesday nights meeting, saying, Ive watched her implement many positive changes that I believe we sorely needed and handle a myriad of issues that would have led me to quit the job after day one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nichols did not give a reason for her resignation. She said, I hope the next chapter for this district is one defined by respect, equity, and a shared commitment to the future of schools, but most of all, to the students that we serve. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Joyce Lee and Hyunjoo Jin SEOUL (Reuters) -Seoul will take a close look at the terms of a U.S.-Japan trade deal, South Korea's industry minister said on Wednesday, holding out the prospect of greater cooperation in the energy and industrial sectors ahead of key trade talks in Washington. Japan and South Korea, manufacturing powerhouses and key U.S. security allies, compete in areas such as autos and steel, so Tokyo's trade deal will pile pressure on Seoul to reach a similar level of 15%, or better, by an August 1 deadline to avert reciprocal U.S. tariffs of 25%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Investors see the Japan-U.S. deal as a benchmark for the Korean deal," said Kim Sung-rae, an analyst at Hanwha Investment & Securities, adding that the agreement "would put pressure on Korean negotiators to come up with a similar, or better, deal." South Korea's benchmark KOSPI index edged up 0.2% on Wednesday, while shares in automakers and suppliers rallied after the Japan-U.S. deal. Hyundai Motor rose 7.3% and Kia jumped 7.6%. The finance ministry and the top trade envoy of Asia's fourth-biggest economy are set for high-level trade talks with U.S. counterparts in Washington on Friday. NO WORSE DEAL THAN JAPAN Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New President Lee Jae Myung has said Seoul wanted to avoid a comparative disadvantage with other countries in trade deals. "South Korea will find it hard to accept a deal where there is a major difference with that of Japan," Kim Yang-hee, a trade professor at Daegu University, said, predicting Korea would reach a similar trade deal with the United States. It will be difficult for South Korea to have U.S. tariff rates lower than 15% on Japan and 10% on Britain, said Kim Yong-jin, a management professor at Sogang University. Seoul needed to import more farm goods and energy, as well as boost investments, as Japan had done to reach a similar outcome, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nation's top trade envoy last week signalled Seoul may have to allow greater access to its agriculture markets to reach a framework deal. But South Korea will exclude the opening-up of its rice and beef markets as a bargaining chip in the Washington talks, instead considering more U.S. imports of crops for fuel, such as corn for bioethanol, the Yonhap News Agency said. "We will make an all-out effort to produce a positive sum result that will allow Korea-U.S. industrial and energy cooperation to be upgraded to the next level," Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan said in a statement. Since the result could have a significant economic impact, South Korea would respond thoroughly while closely considering the sensitivity of its industry, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will meet U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Energy Secretary Chris Wright, among others, he told reporters before boarding a plane to Washington for the talks. ALASKA LNG, CHIPS In a post on Truth Social, U.S. President Donald Trump said Japan would boost market access for American producers of cars, trucks, rice and certain agricultural products, among others. The deal's tariff of 15% on all Japanese imports, including cars, is down from 25%, with Trump adding that it would include $550 billion of Japanese investments in the United States. Japan also received U.S. commitments that it would not be put at a disadvantage over industry-specific tariffs such as on chips and pharmaceuticals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, South Korea's Chosun Ilbo newspaper said the United States had asked Seoul in talks this month to set up a large-scale investment fund to support the reconstruction of its manufacturing industry, without identifying a clear source. South Korea has said the U.S. has conveyed a keenness to cooperate in chips, shipbuilding, and other sectors. Trump also expressed optimism that Japan would form a joint venture with Washington to support a gas pipeline in Alaska. Although South Korea has shown interest in the $44 billion LNG project in Alaska, its trade envoy said this month the feasibility of the project remained unclear. (Reporting by Joyce Lee, Hyunjoo Jin; Additional reporting by Jihoon Lee and Makiko YamazakiEditing by Ed Davies, Clarence Fernandez and Shri Navaratnam) The Hernando DeSoto Bridge over the Mississippi River in Memphis. (Photo: Karen Pulfer Focht for Tennessee Lookout) Residents of a South Memphis neighborhood will soon embark on a first-of-its-kind project to craft a protection plan for the drinking water stored in the earth beneath them. The Memphis Sand Aquifer stretches across eight states in the Mississippi River Basin and provides clean drinking water for much of the Mid-South region, including Memphis. Layers of sand filter the water and a layer of clay closer to the surface protects the aquifers water from contamination, according to the University of Memphis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But breaches in that clay layer can allow contaminated water to enter the aquifer, and growing demand for water for drinking, agriculture, industry and power puts additional pressure on the resource. The Alcy Ball neighborhood, located in the crook between Elvis Presley Boulevard and Interstate 240, sits atop one of the known breaches. The Alcy Ball Development Corporation and nonprofit advocacy organization Protect Our Aquifer will work with the Memphis-Shelby County Office of Sustainability and Resilience and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation over the next two years to create a community-led groundwater protection plan. A $150,000 award from Partners for Places a grant program supporting urban sustainability projects and $75,000 from the Hyde Family Foundation will support the collaboratives work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project will center the voices and leadership of Alcy Ball residents, empowering citizen scientists to guide environmental testing, green infrastructure design, and the creation of a groundwater protection strategy for the neighborhood, according to a Tuesday news release from Protect Our Aquifer. Memphis is 100% reliant on groundwater. Yet communities like Alcy Ball where pollution, disinvestment, and environmental vulnerability intersect have been excluded from conversations about how to protect it, Protect Our Aquifer Executive Director Sarah Houston said. This project flips that script. The breach in the Alcy Ball neighborhood lies under the Memphis Defense Depot, a former World War II-era military warehouse that became a dumping ground for chemical waste, including Nazi mustard gas bombs, according to Protect Our Aquifer. The federal government declared the depot a Superfund site in 1992 after years of reports of pollution-related health issues from the majority-Black community. The Environmental Protection Agency has been remediating the site since 1998. Neighbors remain distrustful of both the institutions that surround the sites cleanup and the safety of their backyards, playgrounds, and parks, the release states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project will include a resident-led environmental review of the neighborhoods potential aquifer threats, supported by technical experts. Community meetings will seek input on that data and proposals, and then residents will work with scientists and planners to transform the vetted data into a plan that guides land use with an eye toward conserving the aquifer. The community will also select a site for a green infrastructure demonstration project designed by residents and brought to life by experts. Alcy Ball will not be a passive beneficiary of this plan. We will be the authors of it, Alcy Ball Development Corporation Executive Director Seth Harkins said. The collaborative hopes this project can serve as a model for community-led groundwater protection for Shelby County, according to the release. Jul. 22ROCHESTER Southbound Highway 52 access to eastbound Interstate 90 southeast of Rochester will be closed and detoured on Wednesday, July 30, as construction crews pour the eastbound I-90 concrete bridge deck, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Work on July 30 is expected to keep southbound Highway 52 closed at the bridge from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. with the eastbound I-90 ramp closed and detoured. If work is postponed by weather, crews will attempt the work on the following day. Remaining open are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Northbound Highway 52 to allow westbound I-90 motorists to exit north on Highway 52 toward Rochester. * I-90 remains open in both directions. * Southbound Highway 52 motorists can use the westbound I-90 on-ramp. The next exits west are Exits 209A and 209B at Stewartville. There are no public turnarounds between Highway 52 and Highway 63. Southbound Highway 52 motorists will be detoured in Rochester to Highway 63 south to I-90 east at Stewartville. Traffic with destinations further south on Highway 52 will exit eastbound I-90 at Exit 224 (Eyota exit), travel south on Olmsted County Road 7 to Highway 52 north of Chatfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar, short-duration detours are planned when crews remove equipment and paint the bridge. Detours will be announced in advance. Other detours of ramps and lane closures remain in effect. To learn more about this project, go to MnDOT's website . A Ventura County man was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault and kidnapping of his girlfriend. Salvador Pena Martinez, 44, was convicted of the crimes on July 21, the Ventura County District Attorneys Office announced. On May 17, 2020, Martinez attacked his girlfriend during an argument about her cell phone. He punched her repeatedly, pulled her by the hair, hit her with a cell phone, choked her until she passed out and pinned her down with his knees, court documents said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martinez then forced her into his truck and continued assaulting her while driving. When they arrived at his cousins house in Port Hueneme, the woman managed to escape and screamed for help, saying Martinez was going to kill her. Salvador Pena Martinez, 44, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault and kidnapping of his girlfriend. (Ventura County District Attorneys Office) The mans family called the police, but Martinez fled the scene before officers arrived. The woman was taken to the hospital with a concussion, facial bruising and head wounds that required staples. On May 20, 2020, a fire was ignited at the womans Oxnard home. Investigators found a gas can at the scene and surveillance footage showed a white pickup truck, similar to Martinezs, driving in the area at the time. Three days later, Martinez was located and arrested for the domestic violence assault. However, he was released on bail five days later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 4, police spotted him driving and tried to pull him over in connection with the arson case. Martinez refused to stop and led officers on a dangerous pursuit through Oxnard. During the chase, he ditched the moving truck and fled on foot. Officers ran after him and after resisting arrest and pinning an officers arm, he was taken into custody. A loaded semi-automatic handgun was also found in his truck. On April 21, Martinez pled guilty to inflicting corporal injury, kidnapping, criminal threats, arson of an inhabited structure, evading an officer, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also admitted to dozens of special allegations, including that the crimes caused great bodily injury, that the victim was vulnerable, and prior strikes. On July 21, he was sentenced to 25 years and four months in prison for the crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the physical and emotional scars of such a brutal attack may linger, we commend the immense resilience and courage demonstrated by the victim and her family throughout this harrowing ordeal, said Rikole Kelly, a Ventura County district attorney who prosecuted the case. With the resolution of this case, we hope they can now begin the process of healing and rebuilding their lives free from fear. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. President Donald Trump has approved Missouris request for a major disaster declaration for severe Memorial Day weekend storms in five southwest Missouri counties, according to Governor Mike Kehoe. The disaster declaration covers Dade, Douglas, Ozark, Vernon and Webster counties. Those areas were hit with severe storms, straight-line winds, hail, flooding and heavy rain from May 23-26. For the past four months, communities across Missouri have been heavily damaged by continuing severe storms, with some of the most devastated areas affected once again by this four-day severe weather event, Governor Kehoe said in a news release. I spoke personally with President Trump last night, and we appreciate his approval of this federal assistance, which will provide millions of dollars to assist in rebuilding infrastructure that is vital to the recovery of the impacted communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal assistance from FEMA will now be available to local governments and nonprofits to repair public infrastructure and reimburse emergency response costs in the five affected counties. Gov. Kehoe says he requested a major disaster declaration on June 21 after receiving initial damage reports from the Memorial Day weekend storms, with costs projected at over $13.5 million. This is the fifth major disaster declaration in the state of Missouri for 2025. More information on the disaster recovery process can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. July 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate has approved Gen. Mike Guetlein to oversee President Donald Trump's national missile defense system, known as the Golden Dome. The Pentagon announced Tuesday that Guetlein had cleared the final hurdle to leading the Office of Golden Dome for America, which will work with industry, higher education, national labs and other government agencies to develop the high-tech missile shield. The Golden Dome is similar to Israel's "Iron Dome" and is intended to modernize the United States' defenses from threats from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. The missile shield will be designed for ballistic, hypersonic, advanced cruise missiles and other large-scale attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guetlein is currently a Space Force general who serves as vice chief of space operations for the military service branch. Testifying to Congress in March, Guetlein compared the complexity of developing the Golden Dome to that of the Manhattan Project, a World War II-era initiative that produced the world's first nuclear weapons. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (pictured in May, speaking during a press event on the Golden Dome missile defense shield in Washington, D.C.) has said today's technology is now advanced enough to build the expansive missile shield envisioned by Ronald Reagan as the so-called "Star Wars" defense system. File Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI "It is not complex because of technology; it is complex because of the number of organizations and agencies that need to be involved," he told a Senate Senate Armed Services subcommittee. Building the Golden Dome will require cooperation between multiple government agencies, as well as private industry, he said. Guetlein described differences in organizational behavior and culture as the project's biggest challenges, which he said can be overcome by having an empowered and well-resourced agency in charge that has the support of policymakers. President Donald Trump discusses his plans for his Golden Dome missile defense shield during a May press event in the Oval Office. File Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI The Golden Dome project is expected to cost $175 billion and Trump has previously said it will be "fully operational" by the end of his term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GOP-backed major tax and spending bill recently signed by Trump includes nearly $25 billion for the Golden Dome. Defense contractors are optimistic it will boost profits. Defense contractor Lockheed Martin on Tuesday reported $18.2 billion in second-quarter sales and predicted more growth as the Golden Dome Project progresses. Speaking during an earnings call Tuesday, Jim Taiclet, president and CEO of Lockheed Martin, said the company has already developed missile defense systems that "are the exact solutions needed to make Golden Dome for America a reality." Taiclet added that the company's exact role in the Golden Dome project remains to be seen because "the plan on the government side isn't laid out yet." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Calio, chairman and CEO of RTX Corp., also expressed optimism that the project would bolster the company's bottom line during an earnings call Tuesday, saying it "is really well aligned with our core capabilities and product portfolio." The effectiveness of Israel's Iron Dome has been on display after it successfully shielded the country from hundreds of missiles launched by Iran. Trump administration officials say the Golden Dome will fulfill former President Ronald Reagan's vision of a "Star Wars" system that was never completed. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously said that technology has now advanced enough to build the expansive missile shield envisioned by Reagan. The United States has missile defense systems in place already, but they would not be able to defend against a large-scale attack from Russia, China, Iran or North Korea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patrycja Bazylczyk, program manager and research associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies' Missile Defense Project, previously told UPI that the Golden Dome project could reorient the United States' defense for an era of "great power competition." "Our adversaries China and Russia have next-generation weapons that can threaten the U.S. homeland," Bazylczyk said. "We need to prime our defenses to defend against these next generation threats." A widespread power outage in the Santa Barbara area caused a major telecommunications disruption and forced the rescheduling of a planned SpaceX launch Tuesday afternoon. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a regional outage in Santa Barbara disrupted communications of the Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control center, which manages air traffic over the Pacific Ocean. A spokesperson for the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management confirmed to KTLA that 911 services were also affected throughout the entire county. The disruption came as SpaceX planned to launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in north-western Santa Barbara County, but the launch was scrubbed due to airspace concerns from the FAA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FAA took this action to ensure the safety of the traveling public, a statement from the federal agency reads. SpaceX had intended on launching around 11:15 a.m., and the countdown clock came within a minute of launch time. But the mission was given a no-go, and was rescheduled for the same approximate window on Wednesday. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying NASAs TRACERS (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) mission stands vertical Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. (SpaceX) The Falcon 9 launch was the first part of NASAs TRACERS Mission, which involves the launch of twin satellites into orbit to study the earths magnetic shield, and how it protects the planet from solar wind. As they fly pole to pole in a Sun-synchronous orbit, the two TRACERS spacecraft will measure how magnetic explosions send these solar wind particles zooming down into Earths atmosphere and how these explosions shape the space weather that impacts our satellites, technology, and astronauts, NASA writes in its mission briefing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three smaller research satellites were also on board, NASA said. Despite the delay, NASA said the rockets payload remained in good health, and theres no indication that Wednesdays launch at Vandenberg wont happen. As of 3 p.m., telecommunications disruptions in Santa Barbara County are ongoing. KTLAs Lily Dallow contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. A motorcyclist was killed and a pedestrian was seriously injured after a crash in Seattles Interbay neighborhood late Tuesday night. According to Seattle PD, officers responded to the collision near 15th Avenue West and West Newton Street just after 11 p.m. Police found the motorcyclist, a 32-year-old man, critically injured in the roadway. Despite lifesaving efforts from the Seattle Fire Department, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A woman had also sustained serious injuries after being struck by the motorcycle and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition. SPD says witnesses reported the motorcyclist was traveling northbound on 15th Avenue West at a high rate of speed just before the collision. Police say the motorcyclist then struck the woman as she crossed the street westbound after exiting a transit bus. Detectives from the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad (TCIS) are investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact TCIS at 206-684-8923. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Wednesday openly questioned if Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted sex offender and longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, would be a credible witness as some lawmakers and federal officials move to speak with her amid the renewed focus on Epstein. The comments came one day after a House Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee voted to subpoena Maxwell to have her appear for a deposition. Also on Tuesday, a senior official at the Department of Justice (DOJ) reached out to Maxwells lawyers about setting up a meeting with her. Johnson, however, is questioning if Maxwell would offer truthful testimony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I fully support my committee chairs, Jamie Comer is a trusted friend, hes an excellent chairman of the Oversight Committee, and he has a duty and responsibility to follow the truth where it leads, Johnson said when asked if he supports the panels move. And so every single one of us are for maximum transparency, and well use every power that we have to ensure that thats done. If they see fit to bring in Ghislaine Maxwell for testimony, thats fine. I will note the obvious concern, the caveat that Chairman Comer and I and everyone has that, can she be counted on to tell the truth? Is she a credible witness? he added. I mean, this is a person whos been sentenced to many, many years in prison for terrible, unspeakable, conspiratorial acts. Acts against innocent young people. He continued, asking: Can we trust what shes gonna say, even if she raises her hand and says that shell testify under oath? Is that something that can be trusted? You know, thats a reasonable question. Is that credible evidence? he added. I dont know, but well have to see. We have to, you know, uncover everything that we can and let the American people evaluate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years in prison in June 2022 after being found guilty of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, conspiracy to transport minors to participate in illegal sex acts, transporting a minor to participate in illegal sex acts, sex trafficking conspiracy and sex trafficking of a minor. Johnsons comments come as the Republican Party remains at odds over the Trump administrations handling of the Epstein case, which has roiled Capitol Hill for two weeks and prompted Johnson to send lawmakers home for the extended August recess a day early. Democrats and a number of Republicans are demanding the release of all the Epstein files, requesting transparency in the case that has been a subject of conversation and conspiracies for years. Trump, meanwhile, has tried to tamp down the controversy. In a sign of the fracturing, the House came to a partial standstill this week and last week as lawmakers tried to force a vote to compel the administration to publish the documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats on the House Rules Committee planned to force a vote on a bipartisan resolution led by Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) this week, but Republicans, concerned about voting down the measure, as is customary for members of the majority when facing a measure led by the minority party, said they would not do so. That came after Republicans on the panel opposed a similar measure last week, prompting serious pushback from constituents at home. As a result, Republicans on the Rules Committee advanced a non-binding resolution last week calling for the release of some information from the case. Democrats, however, are still pressing for a vote on the bipartisan measure, leading to this weeks standstill and preventing the House from voting on any legislation through regular order. Instead, the chamber is processing non-controversial legislation through the fast-track suspension of the rules process. Amid the freeze, Republicans are attempting other avenues to get information. On Tuesday, during an unrelated hearing for an Oversight subcommittee, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) moved to direct the panel to authorize and issue a subpoena for Maxwell to appear for a deposition, which passed by voice vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson on Tuesday defended his handling of the situation, telling reporters: No one in Congress is blocking Epstein documents. No one in Congress is doing that, he added. What we are doing here, Republicans are preventing Democrats from making a mockery of the Rules Committee process because we refuse to engage in their political charade. That is what is happening and nothing more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A Spirit Airlines customer was barred from boarding a plane last week after the airline determined that she did not comply with the airline's dress code, even though she had worn the same outfit on a flight in the past. Tanasia Grayer claimed that Spirit Airlines refused to allow her to board her plane from Miami to Chicago last week, claiming that the shorts she was wearing for the flight were too short. Spirit Airlines has recently moved forward with a rather strict dress code, warning that customers shall not be permitted to board the aircraft or may be required to leave if they are barefoot or inadequately clothed (i.e., see-through clothing; not adequately covered; exposed breasts, buttocks, or other private parts), or whose clothing or article, including body art, is lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grayer, however, described her attire as regular shorts and claimed that she had even worn the same outfit on her Spirit flight from Chicago to Miami. She also pointed out that she was even wearing a robe over the top of the outfit so it wasn't "too revealing." They said that you cant have the bottom or your butt out, (but) thats why this robe is on. Thats why this robe is on so that Im not too revealing, she told CBS. She also expressed frustration that the airline didn't tell her about the issue earlier so she had time to change. I was in the airport for 40 minutes, yall shouldve told me, she said. That way I couldve went and changed my clothes to put anything else on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to the US Sun, Spirit Airlines addressed the incident, saying that Grayer refused to comply with its dress code despite being given an opportunity to do so. We always want our guests to feel welcome and have a great experience, Spirit Airlines wrote in a statement to the US Sun. Consistent with other U.S. airlines, our Contract of Carriage contains certain clothing standards for all guests traveling with us. Our records show a guest was not in compliance with our contract and refused to comply when provided an opportunity to do so. The guest and their travel companion were eventually denied boarding after displaying disruptive behavior. Spirit Airlines Customer Barred From Flight Due to New Dress Code first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 22, 2025 SPRINGFIELD, Mo. A Springfield man has been indicted by a federal grand jury following an incident in June. According to a United States Department of Justice press release, Courtney Ellis, 45, has been charged with one count of indictment with assaulting an employee of the U.S. Postal Service while the employee was performing their official duties. Springfield man sentenced to 25 years for meth and gun charges Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release says that on June 18, Ellis struck the victim on the head with a wooden board while the worker was delivering mail to Elliss address. The USPS worker was delivering mail to that route for the first time in a delivery vehicle. After striking the victim, Ellis yelled that the worker did not belong in the neighborhood and followed him back as he continued to yell as the man drove away from the scene. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert. It was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Springfield 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. Neighbouring East African countries Kenya and Tanzania have jointly launched a land-based fibre link in a partnership between the respective nations' telecommunications authorities. The Kenyan Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy William Kabogo Gitau and his Tanzanian counterpart Jerry William Silaa have launched the Dar-Es-Salaam to Mombasa terrestrial fibre link at the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro Border area. Kenya, a country of 52 million has invested heavily in telecommunications over the past decade, with telecoms and financial activity now comprising 62% of GDP. Tanzania, with a slightly larger population of 67 million, has a rapidly growing telecoms sector with a market size in excess of US$5 billion, but is still in the 3G and 4G stage of mobile connectivity. The new link will enable Tanzania to tap into Kenya's substantial subsea cable network, while Kenya will have access to Tanzania's extensive land based broadband backbone. Implemented through the partnership between Kenyas ICT Authority (ICTA) and Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTLC), the new fibre link aims to boost cross-border trade, spur regional e-commerce and help bridge the digital divide beyond borders. "Kenya reaffirms its firm commitment to unlocking the full potential of a digital Africa for creation of employment in the digital space, enhancing cross border exchange of innovative ideas and infrastructural development," Secretary Kabogo of Kenya said. "Regional collaboration is instrumental for strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks that will govern the digital space and secure networks in both countries." Tanzanian Secretary Silaa echoed Kabob's remarks saying the launched project will enhance system interoperability and seamless communication between the two nations. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. A Springfield man has been sentenced following a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene County and possessing firearms in 2022. According to a United States Department of Justice press release, Russell Lee Deck Jr., 47, has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole followed by three years of supervised release. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Police car rammed, shots fired during chase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deck pleaded guilty on Nov. 8, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On Aug. 18, 2022, a Springfield police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Deck in a hotel parking lot. Deck put his vehicle in reverse and rammed into the back of the officers vehicle. The officer came outside their car with his duty weapon and ordered the occupants to stop. Deck drove forward and then put his car into reverse and rammed into the officer again and then fled the scene. Deck began a high-speed pursuit in a residential neighborhood with police while a passenger in the car began shooting at the polices vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pursuit ended after Deck crashed into a Jeep SUV at an intersection. The Jeep owner was unharmed, but the vehicle sustained significant damage. Deck fled the scene of the crash and was later arrested by Greene County deputies who found him hiding under a car. Officers found two bags containing 46.2 grams of methamphetamine in Decks pockets. Police also found two handguns in the front passenger side floorboard. Blake Basten, the passenger in the vehicle who shot at police, was sentenced to 10 years for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm on Feb. 27, 2024. Decks co-defendant, Justin Hollingsworth, was sentenced to 18 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 24, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Springfield 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. By Supantha Mukherjee, Sarah Marsh and Christoph Steitz MUNICH/BERLIN/FRANKFURT (Reuters) -For Gundbert Scherf - the co-founder of Germany's Helsing, Europe's most valuable defence start-up - Russia's invasion of Ukraine changed everything. Scherf had to fight hard to attract investment after starting his company - which produces military strike drones and battlefield AI - four years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, that's the least of his problems. The Munich-based company more than doubled its valuation to $12 billion at a fundraising last month. "Europe this year, for the first time in decades, is spending more on defense technology acquisition than the U.S.," said Scherf. The former partner at McKinsey & Company says Europe may be on the cusp of a transformation in defence innovation akin to the Manhattan Project - the scientific push that saw the U.S. rapidly develop nuclear weapons during World War Two. "Europe is now coming to terms with defense." Reuters spoke to two dozens executives, investors and policymakers to examine how Germany - Europe's largest economy - aims to play a central role in the rearming the continent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government views AI and start-up technology as key to its defence plans and is slashing bureaucracy to connect startups directly to the upper echelons of its military, the sources told Reuters. Shaped by the trauma of Nazi militarism and a strong postwar pacifist ethos, Germany long maintained a relatively small and cautious defence sector, sheltered by U.S. security guarantees. Germany's business model, shaped by a deep aversion to risk, has also favoured incremental improvements over disruptive innovation. No more. With U.S. military support now more uncertain, Germany - one of the biggest backers of Ukraine - plans to nearly triple its regular defence budget to around 162 billion euros ($175 billion) per year by 2029. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of that money will go into reinventing the nature of warfare, the sources said. Helsing is part of a wave of German defence start-ups developing cutting-edge technology, from tank-like AI robots and unmanned mini-submarines to battle-ready spy cockroaches. "We want to help give Europe its spine back," said Scherf. Some of these smaller firms are now advising the government alongside established firms - so-called primes such as Rheinmetall and Hensoldt - that have less incentive to focus primarily on innovation, given their long backlogs for conventional systems, one of the sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new draft procurement law, approved by Merz's cabinet on Wednesday, aims to reduce hurdles for cash-strapped start-ups to join tenders by enabling advance payment to these firms. The law would also entitle authorities to limit tenders to bidders inside the European Union. Marc Wietfeld, CEO and founder of autonomous robots maker ARX Robotics, said a recent meeting with German defence minister Boris Pistorius hammered home how deep the rethink in Berlin goes. "He told me: 'Money is no longer an excuse - it's there now'. That was a turning point," he said. GERMANY IN THE LEAD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Donald Trump's return to the political stage and his renewed questioning of America's commitment to NATO, Germany has committed to meet the alliance's new target of 3.5% of GDP on defense spending by 2029 - faster than most European allies. Officials in Berlin have emphasized the need to foster a European defence industry rather than rely on U.S. companies. But the hurdles towards scaling up industry champions in Germany - and Europe more broadly - are considerable. Unlike in the United States, the market is fragmented in Europe. Each country has its own set of procurement standards to fulfill contracts. The United States, the world's top military spender, already has an established stable of defence giants, like Lockheed Martin and RTX, and an advantage in key areas, including satellite technology, fighter jets and precise-guided munitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington also began boosting defence tech startups in 2015 - including Shield AI, drone maker Anduril and software company Palantir - by awarding them parts of military contracts. European startups until recently languished with little government support. But an analysis by Aviation Week in May showed Europe's 19 top defence spenders - including Turkey and Ukraine - were projected to spend 180.1 billion this year on military procurement compared, to 175.6 billion for the United States. Washington's overall military spending will remain higher. Hans Christoph Atzpodien, head of Germany's security and defence sector association BDSV, said one challenge was that the military's procurement system was geared toward established suppliers and not well suited to the fast pace that new technologies require. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germany's defence ministry said in a statement it was taking steps to accelerate procurement and to better integrate startups in order to make new technologies quickly available to the Bundeswehr. Annette Lehnigk-Emden, head of the armed forces' powerful procurement agency, highlighted drones and AI as emerging fields that Germany needs to develop. "The changes they're bringing to the battlefield are as revolutionary as the introduction of the machine gun, tank, or airplane," she told Reuters. SPY COCKROACHES Sven Weizenegger, who heads up the Cyber Innovation hub, the Bundeswehr's innovation accelerator, said the war in Ukraine was also changing social attitudes, removing a stigma towards working in the defence sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Germany has developed a whole new openness towards the issue of security since the invasion," he said. Weizenegger said he was receiving 20-30 Linkedin requests a day, compared to maybe 2-3 weekly back in 2020, with ideas for defence technology to develop. Some of the ideas under development feel akin to science fiction like Swarm Biotactics' cyborg cockroaches that are equipped with specialised miniature backpacks that enable real-time data collection via cameras for example. Electrical stimuli should allow humans to control the insects' movements remotely. The aim is for them to provide surveillance information in hostile environments - for example information about enemy positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our bio-robots - based on living insects - are equipped with neural stimulation, sensors, and secure communication modules," said CEO Stefan Wilhelm. "They can be steered individually or operate autonomously in swarms. In the first half of the 20th century, German scientists pioneered many military technologies that became global standards, from ballistic missiles to jet aircraft and guided weapons. But following its defeat in World War II, Germany was demilitarized and its scientific talent was dispersed. Wernher von Braun, who invented the first ballistic missile for the Nazis, was one of hundreds of German scientists and engineers transported to the United States in the wake of World War II, where he later worked at NASA and developed the rocket that took Apollo spacecraft to the Moon. In recent decades, defence innovation has been a powerful driver of economic progress. Tech like the internet, GPS, semiconductors and jet engines originated in military research programs before transforming civilian life. Hit by high energy prices, a slowdown in demand for its exports and competition from China, Germany's $4.75 trillion economy contracted over the last two years. Expanding military research could provide an economic fillip. "We just need to get to this mindset: a strong defense industrial base means a strong economy and innovation on steroids," said Markus Federle, managing partner at defence-focused investment firm Tholus Capital. ESCAPING 'THE VALLEY OF DEATH' Risk aversion among European investors had in the past disadvantaged startups, which struggled to get the capital they need to survive the 'valley of death' the critical early stage when costs are high and sales low. But a boost in defence spending by European governments following Russia's invasion of Ukraine has investors looking for opportunities. Europe now boasts three start-ups with a unicorn valuation of more than $1 billion: Helsing, German drone maker Quantum Systems, and Portugal's Tekever, which also manufactures drones. "There's a lot of pressure now on Germany being the lead nation of the European defense," said Sven Kruck, Quantum's chief strategy officer. Germany has become Ukraine's second-biggest military backer after the United States. Orders that might once have taken years to approve now take months and European startups have had the opportunity to test their products quickly in the field, several sources said. Venture capital funding of European defence tech hit $1 billion in 2024, up from a modest $373 million in 2022, and is expected to surge even more this year. "Society has recognized that we have to defend our democracies," said Christian Saller, general partner at HV Capital, an investor in both ARX and Quantum Systems. Venture capital funding has grown faster in Germany than elsewhere, according to a data analysis by Dealroom for Reuters. German defence startups have received $1.4 billion in the last five years from investors, followed by UK, the data shows. Jack Wang, partner at venture capital firm Project A, said many German defence startups - rooted in the country's engineering prowess - are good at integrating established components into scalable systems. "Quality of talent in Europe is extremely high, but as a whole, there's no better country, no better talent that we've seen other than in Germany," he said. Weakness in Germany's automotive industry means there is production capacity to spare, including in the Mittelstand: the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of Germany's economy. Stefan Thumann, CEO of Bavarian startup Donaustahl, which produces loitering munitions, said he receives 3 to 5 applications daily from workers at automotive companies. "The startups just need the brains to do the engineering and prototyping," he said. "And the German Mittelstand will be their muscles." ($1 = 0.8560 euros) (Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Munich, Sarah Marsh in Berlin and Christoph Steitz in Frankfurt; Additional Reporting by Sabine Siebold in Berlin; Editing by Kenneth Li and Daniel Flynn) ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) The St. Joseph Symphony launched a new program for kids to learn, enjoy and create classical harmonies. Beginning Adventures in Classical Harmony (B.A.C.H.) is a hands-on, child-focused experience that aims to combine storytelling, live instrument demonstrations and guided listening. The program is inspired by the legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach and is designed to help young learners explore the fundamentals of music playfully and engagingly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement B.A.C.H. is funded through a grant from the Norma and William Kenney Charitable Foundation. B.A.C.H. brings our mission full circle," said Nancy Schmidt-Brunson, executive director of the St. Joseph Symphony. "We're not only performing great music, we're building future musicians, music lovers, and community leaders. This program gives kids a place to discover music in a way that feels exciting and accessible. B.A.C.H. will feature a mix of interactive programs, all led by collaborative pianist and Missouri Western State University faculty member Lorrie Dixon. The program will debut on Thursday, July 31, with a private recital for children with the St. Joseph YWCA. Community partnerships, local organizations, private schools and school districts interested in hosting or participating in B.A.C.H. are encouraged to contact the St. Joseph Symphony office through their website, by calling (816) 233-7701 or by emailing info@stjosephsymphony.org. BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) The fancy flickers were at it again in the basement of Saint Mary of the Assumption Church in Binghamton this morning. The parishioners were busy making homemade gnocchi that will be sold at the annual Saint Marys Bazaar next month. After mixing the potato-based dough, its rolled into long strips, cut into pieces, and then flicked on a wooden board to give them the grooves that hold the sauce. Last year, Saint Marys sold its Rec Center on Hawley Street to the City of Binghamton which turned it into a Parks and Rec Youth Center. But with the agreement that it can be used for the week before and week after the annual bazaar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coordinator Renee Cramer says, I know when I was a child, I would always look for the tents to go up to know that thats the week of the bazaar. A lot of people look forward to coming and seeing and making sure that were having it. I think a lot of people enjoy it. The festival runs Friday August 15th from 5 to 10 p.m. and Saturday the 16th from 4 to 10. Gnocchi are sold on Saturday only. On Sunday, the weekend concludes with a special mass and the annual procession with the Virgin Mary followed by an ice cream social and barbecue outside the Rec Center. On Friday and Saturday, there will also be lots of other Italian dishes, adult games, kids activities and live music. Advertisement 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. St. Pauls old St. Josephs Hospital campus could be torn down for redevelopment under a non-binding plan approved Tuesday by the St. Paul Port Authority. Since closing the money-losing hospital in 2022, Fairview Health Services has worked with the Port Authority in search of a buyer or redevelopment partner. It became clear that the existing, functionally obsolete buildings are a barrier to sale or redevelopment. Therefore, a demolition project has been identified as the best path to ensure the Site does not remain vacant and underused, the Port Authority said in Tuesdays meeting materials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Port Authority now intends to buy the 5.55-acre south portion of the campus for a dollar and borrow $6 million for its demolition. In addition to the main hospital building, the purchase includes the Ninth Street parking ramp, which could either remain in operation or be torn down. Fairview will continue to own and operate its wellness hub on the north part of the site, including a second parking ramp at 10th Street. The goal, the Port Authority said in a written statement, is to spur redevelopment at a significant site in downtown St. Paul, which has failed to find buyers. Once readied for construction, the land should be worth $9 million to $12 million, the citys development arm said. Long history After more than 165 years of serving patients in downtown St. Paul, Fairview closed St. Joes the states oldest hospital in stages, eliminating its emergency room in December 2020 and shuttering the rest of the facility by the end of 2022. Part of the hospital campus has transitioned into the Fairview Community Health and Wellness Hub, a facility that offers a variety of preventative care and other services, including senior daycare and clinical trials for wearable medical devices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comprising the rest of the site are four vacant buildings slated for demolition, including the oldest section of St. Josephs Hospital on Exchange Street. The Port Authority hopes to create a redevelopment district backed by Tax Increment Financing, or TIF tax incentives, to fund up to $6 million in bonds, which would cover demolition, environmental remediation and other types of site preparation. The St. Paul City Council first would have to sign off on that agreement, and then a market study would help the city and Port Authority find a partner for higher and better use for the site. While TIF funding has become a common redevelopment tool throughout St. Paul, there are some departures from the norm in the agreement. It calls for Fairview to pay the interest costs on the bonds, as well as site holding costs, for up to six years or whenever the property is sold or a project is financed. In addition, Fairview would be responsible for any demolition or remediation costs above $6 million. If the site is not sold within six years, Fairview would continue to be responsible for holding costs, as well as the principal and interest for the TIF bond financing for years seven through 10 of whats anticipated to be a 25-year term, or until the property is sold. City Council President Rebecca Noecker, quoted in the statement, called the project a wonderful example of how we can come together with both the public and private sectors to spur positive change in the heart of our city. PUERTO RICO A St. Peters woman pleaded guilty on Tuesday to setting three Puerto Rico businesses on fire in January. According to our partners at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Danielle Bertothy, 36, pleaded guilty to one felony count of arson in San Juan federal court. Bertothy was visiting a bar in Cabo Rojo on Jan. 2 when she set fire to the commercial building housing a retailer, restaurant, bar, and hotel. Hotel guests had to be evacuated due to the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child sex predator on the loose; arrest warrant filed Videos and other claims from Puerto Rican authorities said Berthothy was kicked out of the bar and returned later with a gas can. Investigators allege Bertothy was intoxicated when restaurant employees denied her alcohol. Thats when shes accused of becoming belligerent and being kicked out of the establishment multiple times. Bertothy was charged with the use of fire to destroy any building affecting interstate commerce, otherwise known as arson. Bertothy is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 2, when she could face between 5 to 20 years in prison. Advertisement 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. Riders board a rabbittransit bus in Harrisburg (Capital-Star photo by Ian Karbal) This story was updated at 10:31 a.m. on July 23 to correct a misspelling in the story. Andrew Long has lived in South Philadelphia for the past six years and uses mass transit nearly every single day. I dont own a car, so its my only way to get to work and get to like appointments and everywhere I need to go to hang out with friends, get home from the bar, Long said. Literally like anything I go to, I use SEPTA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long has been involved with Transit for All PA, an advocacy group pushing for increased mass transit funding across the commonwealth, since December. He joined not long after Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) announced it would need to increase fares and drastically cut services unless state lawmakers increase their funding. If SEPTA follows through, Long said hes concerned about how hed be able to get to work. This is really important to me, and I really hope that these budget cuts dont have to be implemented, he said. SEPTA has warned without new funding, it will have to eliminate 50 bus routes and five regional rail lines, reduce service by 20% across the board, and institute a 9 p.m. curfew. The transit agency passed a budget in late June that would implement some service cuts next month unless funding is increased. It says its facing a deficit of $213 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But SEPTA is not alone. Across the state, mass transit systems are facing budget shortfalls that could impact funding for some one million Pennsylvanians who rely on them daily in urban, suburban and rural regions. Pittsburgh Regional Transit is looking at eliminating 54 bus routes, cutting service by 35%, raising fares by 9% and instituting an 11 p.m. curfew. The system is seeking an additional $117 million. The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA), said its facing a 20% service cut and a 35% fare raise, its largest scaleback in decades. Its looking for a $6.5 million dollar increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The York County-based rabbittransit, which serves 11 counties in southcentral Pennsylvania and is part of the Susquehanna Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), has said it could lose 25% of its bus routes. Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed sending it an additional $5.7 million. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE For Sarah Stottlemyer, rabbittransits Harrisburg-area bus lines are more than her primary transportation method. Theyre freedom. I rely on the bus every day, Monday through Friday, to get to appointments during the day and then at night for work, she said. If they cut the 32 bus especially, there goes my job. There goes my place to live. Itd put my freedom on the line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sottlemyer, 34, is on probation after multiple simple assault charges, but she said shes gotten sober and is working to rebuild her life. But if she was no longer able to get to her job, shed risk not making rent or violating the requirements of her parole. Id be going to jail, if not to a halfway house, Stottlemyer said. Sarah Stottlemyer waits for a bus in Harrisburg (Capital-Star photo by Ian Karbal) Even a reduction of service and not an outright cut to her bus lines, could have a large impact for Stottlemyer. She commutes more than 10 miles from Harrisburg to Palmyra, and then back again, for her warehouse job. Less frequent buses could mean leaving for work even earlier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the impacts wont only affect fixed-route systems like traditional bus and train lines. As reported by Spotlight PA, the states shared-ride program, which is particularly important for rural, elderly and disabled Pennsylvanians, is at-risk. With agencies serving all 67 Pennsylvania counties warning of similar setbacks, transportation funding has emerged as one of the most pressing issues during current budget negotiations in Harrisburg. Shapiro has advocated for the funding of mass transit since hes been in office. In his February budget address, Shapiro proposed raising the share of the states sales tax that goes to transit funding from 7.68% to 9.43%. He said this would generate nearly $300 million annually without raising taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He applauded efforts in the state House to pass legislation on multiple occasions that would have increased funding, although the bill did not pass in the GOP-majority Senate. A lot of people do rely on the bus to get them back-and-forth to work, and if they cut one of the routes thats going across the river or wherever, and people cant get there, they dont have money for a taxi. 81-year-old Mary Babil, a rabbittransit customer Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) told reporters last month that his caucus could live without a transit funding boost, with the budget facing a structural deficit. But he has since said Republicans are open to the idea if its paired with a hike in more traditional infrastructure funding for road and bridge projects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, some Republican lawmakers representing rural areas are hesitant to boost state dollars for mass transit systems that they believe primarily benefit urban areas. Sen. Cris Dush (R-Jefferson) penned a letter last month explaining his opposition to providing additional funding for SEPTA and referred to bus trains and operators as chauffeurs. Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) said the funding amounts to his constituents paying for somebody elses discounted ride or somebody elses free ride with no accountability. But, 81-year-old Mary Babil takes issue with such characterizations, noting public transit plays an essential role for many Pennsylvanians, especially seniors, disabled people and others who cant drive or afford cars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They should be in our shoes, she said while waiting for a bus in Harrisburg. A lot of people do rely on the bus to get them back-and-forth to work, and if they cut one of the routes thats going across the river or wherever, and people cant get there, they dont have money for a taxi. Babil has never had a drivers license. She uses the bus to get to the grocery store, Walmart and doctors appointments two or three times a week. When she needs to see her doctor across the Susquehanna River in Enola, she uses the state-backed shared ride service thats funded, in part, by revenue brought in by more traditional mass transit. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Until recently, Babil relied on her niece to get around. But when her nieces mom got sick, Babil urged her to take more time for herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wouldnt let her do it anymore, Babil said. It would wear her out. So, like many other older people she knows, she began relying on the rabbittransit system, which offers a free ride pass to seniors 65 and over. A lot of them dont have anyone to take them anywhere, just like grocery shopping, Babil said. Some of them or most of them dont have relatives to take them around, and they really dont have the money, but if they have these passes, it can get them where theyre going. Kim Whetsell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association, a trade organization representing transportation agencies across the state, said, even if you dont have a bus rolling through your street thats a fixed route, you have public transportation in your county. Were talking about the smaller [buses] that maybe youre not seeing every day that are picking up an older adult to go to an appointment or go to the grocery store. Thats actually the bulk of what our state is made up of when it comes to transportation, the smaller, rural communities that are utilizing that shared ride program. How did we get here? The creep towards a mass transit fiscal crisis has not taken anyone in Harrisburg by surprise. The last time lawmakers struck a major deal to fund transportation was when they passed Act 89 in 2013. That effort raised the gas tax, directing revenue to the states mass transit systems and for the repair of roads and bridges. The agreement brought in roughly $2.3 billion per year, divided between mass transit and transportation infrastructure. But, it was less than what PennDOT had hoped for at the time. The deal itself helped to offset deficiencies in a previous transit-funding initiative, which dates to 2007 when then-Gov. Ed Rendell pushed to put tolls on I-80 and use the revenue to fund transportation projects. The idea was shot down by federal regulators, and the legislature instead raised Pa. Turnpike tolls to fund mass transit and transportation-related infrastructure projects. But in 2022, the Turnpike toll revenue sent to PennDOT for transportation projects dropped steeply, as scheduled. Those funds were replaced with revenue from the motor vehicle sales tax, and is one reason lawmakers are scrambling to find a new source. A 2021 report commissioned by former Gov. Tom Wolf found the gas tax is simply not as reliable of a source of revenue as it used to be. Thats in part because gas-fueled vehicles have become much more efficient, and electric alternatives are taking a bigger share of the market. And the costs of maintaining transit systems and roads have grown. While the issue has persisted for years, a series of temporary measures have allowed the system to function without an overhaul of its funding source. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, ridership across virtually all transit agencies tanked. Even now, with a larger share of the workforce working remotely at least part time, ridership has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. But temporary federal funding intended to curb the pandemics impacts helped transit agencies get through the last few years. While it didnt cover the full gap, it gave us time to think where we could cut costs, what we could do while also not being in a downward spiral at the same time, said Leslie Richards, the former PennDOT secretary and the president of SEPTA during the pandemic. We were losing a million dollars a day. And last year, when lawmakers passed over negotiating a mass transit deal to focus on education funding in the 2024 budget, Shapiro unilaterally propped up SEPTA. In November, he transferred $153 million in federal highway capital funds to the Philadelphia-area transit authority to avoid immediate fare increases and service cuts. This move was widely criticized by Republicans, even those who had previously voted for an increase in transportation funding. Now, lawmakers again find themselves having to look at the structural shortfall facing transportation funding around the state. Unlike in 2013, there is no clear source of new revenue to divert to transportation projects, or at least little political will to raise new taxes. Proposals to bring in new revenue have been made, such as regulating skill games and recreational marijuana. However its done, elected leaders are hoping for a long-term solution. Heres what I can guarantee you about our state budget: it will be a package of compromises, and Im working very, very hard to make sure that funding for mass transit is part of that compromise package, Shapiro added. The governors office didnt respond to a list of questions submitted by the Capital-Star about transit funding and ongoing budget negotiations. Where do lawmakers stand? Last month, the House passed a transportation funding package that would invest nearly $300 million of new funding into mass transit and $500 million to repair roads and bridges. But senate GOP lawmakers have yet to advance the legislation. Well, to us, thats the highest priority we have, Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) told PCN. Senate Democrats stand 23 strong ready to support the governors mass transit proposal that has come over from the House on multiple occasions. Even if every Democrat in the Senate supported the governors mass transit proposal, at least two Republicans would be needed to get it across the finish line. We have to do something, House Transportation Committee chair Ed Neilson (D-Philadelphia) said. And I think nows the time. Neilson said passing transportation funding would benefit the whole commonwealth, while noting that the southeast is a significant driving force behind the revenue generated in the state. Former PennDOT Secretary and SEPTA general manager Leslie Richards agrees. There just seems to be a disconnect of the impact that investments in transit have on the broader economy, Richards said. Money raised in the Philadelphia region that goes to Harrisburg is a huge part of the general fund. Harrisburg should be very concerned with making southeastern Pennsylvania as economically viable as possible. The Philadelphia-area economy is dependent, she said, on employees and customers alike being able to commute to their jobs and to shop at local businesses. On top of Shapiros proposal to dedicate more sales tax revenue to transit, Sens. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia) and Lindsey Williams (D-Allegheny) are pushing for more new funding. The pair have introduced a package of bills that would institute a 6% excise fee on ride share companies like Lyft and Uber, increase of the daily vehicle rental fee from the $2 rate set in 1991 to $6.50 and raise the car lease tax from 3% to 5%. These are services that benefit from our transportation network, and sometimes provide first mile or last mile services when it comes to transit, but in no ways do they contribute to it, Saval said. Connor Descheemaker, the campaign manager at Transit for all PA, a coalition of mass transit riders workers and advocates who are pushing for Saval and Williams eponymous bills, said Harrisburg could also \allow local governments to levy their own taxes to fund transit. Were forbidden by the state government from doing that, Descheemaker said. Unless lawmakers come to an agreement, transit agencies across the state may begin cutting services as soon as next month. On a Monday afternoon in Harrisburg, dozens of people waited at the Market Street transfer station as buses dropped people off, picked them up and fanned out across the area. Some were elderly, some disabled, and others didnt have or simply didnt want to take a car. Kevin Dunklebarger waits for a bus in Harrisburg (Capital-Star photo by Ian Karbal) For riders like Kevin Dunklebarger, 48, a cut to the number of bus routes or their frequency could have serious impacts. Its something hes thought about since seeing Save Our Service signs go up on the buses. Dunklebarger loads trucks at a store on Union Deposit Road outside the city of Harrisburg. Like others who use transit, he cant afford a car and relies on the bus to get his groceries, go to stores and appointments, or anywhere else he cant walk. If it ran less frequently, then Id have to leave a lot earlier or Id have to cut my hours at work, he said. It would affect me immensely. And hes not alone. According to rabbittransit, around 9,200 people rely on their services every day. And thats one of only 53 transit systems in the state, virtually all of which say theyre facing monetary crises unless lawmakers find a way to new funding. A barista revealed that the double pastries you may sometimes see in the Starbucks case aren't exclusively for your belly; they're placed there primarily to increase sales, even if it might lead to more food waste at the end of the day. What's happening? According to a Reddit post, Starbucks employees are instructed to double up on unwrapped pastries in the front of the display case when corporate visits are expected. The attached photo showed multiple identical pastries stacked on top of each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I just feel like it is extremely wasteful," said the original poster. "Starbucks loves to talk about not wasting plastic cups, but then does this." Photo Credit: Reddit Many commenters confirmed that this practice is standard, even outside of inspections, and that the extra pastries that sit out longer as a result are often thrown out afterward. Why is food waste important? Food waste is one of the leading contributors to methane pollution, a harmful heat-trapping gas that accelerates Earth's overheating. When edible food ends up in landfills instead of being donated, composted, or redistributed, it not only wastes valuable resources like water and labor but also contributes to a larger, global crisis: the disconnect between food abundance and hunger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With U.S. food waste estimated at around 30-40% of the supply, even seemingly small practices like this one matter. Is Starbucks doing anything about this? Starbucks has made public commitments to reducing food waste by 50% by 2030 and has launched programs like the Starbucks FoodShare donation initiative, which works with charitable organizations to redirect unsold food. However, the policy around display-only pastries isn't addressed on the company's website, and employees claim it's often enforced inconsistently between locations. In a prior statement to The Cool Down, a Starbucks spokesperson said that the company does not issue any policies that create purposeful food waste and that its stores in the U.S. and Canada have combined to donate more than 67 million meals since 2016 to organizations such as Feeding America and Second Harvest Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Starbucks uses Retail Public Health and Food Safety standards to determine what qualifies as 'approved to donate food,'" the spokesperson said. "These standards are in place to ensure we are safely donating nourishing, ready-to-eat meals. In instances where food is no longer safe per these regulations, it is our responsibility to remove it from the floor. That is not food waste it is a public health commitment." Commenters nonetheless felt the practice, even if done with full intentions of selling each item, does end up leading to waste if the items sit out too long to be donated. "My store puts two pastries in the case per pastry everyday, regardless of dm [district manager] visit or not, and I fully agree it is incredibly wasteful. Sometimes we are able to get away with one pasty per pastry [type] but its very rare," said one commenter. Another commenter shared an eco-friendly alternative: "I work at a license store, and we have resin copies of our sandwiches! They look exactly the same and so much less wasteful than making one of each sandwich everyday, I hated doing that when I worked corporate stores." What's being done about food waste more broadly? The good news is that solutions exist. Cities and states across the U.S. are enacting food waste bans and composting programs, as NPR reported, while companies like Panera and Pret A Manger say they donate unsold items daily, though both these companies have also experienced some flops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Individuals can help by supporting businesses with strong food recovery programs, reducing personal waste, and donating to local food banks. Even small shifts in awareness can lead to bigger changes behind the counter and beyond. 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. State Auditor Dave Boliek urges a Senate Committee to approve legislation giving his office more power. (Photo: NCGA video) Earlier this year, after the state Supreme Court effectively okayed the egregious action of Republican legislators stripping the Governors power to appoint members to the State Board of Elections and handing it to the newly elected GOP state Auditor, Justice Anita Earls powerfully and eloquently dissented, saying, in part: If the voters of North Carolina wanted a Republican official to control the State Board of Elections, they could have elected a Republican Governor. If they wanted David Boliek [the Auditor] in particular to run our elections, they could have elected him the Governor. The voters did not. The General Assembly may not grab power over enforcement of election laws by shuttling the Board between statewide elected officials until it finds one willing to do its bidding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can now prepare, Earls continued, for the Agriculture Commissioner to represent the State in criminal appeals, the Attorney General supervise the State Health Plan, and the Treasurer to run the State Fair. She might have added that a similar anti-democratic power grab was previously rejected by North Carolina voters. When an amendment removing election board appointment authority from the Governor was presented to the voters in 2018 in a constitutional amendment ballot initiative, they soundly rejected it, by a margin of 61.6% to 38.4%. In a purple state like North Carolina this was an overwhelming landslide and a decisive outcome. The people had spoken, loud and clear. But it has become the central tenet of the North Carolina GOP under Senator Phil Bergers leadership that he and his pals know better than the people and are more than willing to shove their agenda down our throats whether we like it or not. Not only do Republican leaders continue to put power over principles, they seem poised to keep driving forward with their right-wing authoritarian plans until they are stopped. And that brings us to Dave Boliek, our newly elected, extreme MAGA partisan State Auditor. This office, maybe more than any office on the Council of State, is designed to fulfill a nonpartisan role. Obviously, Boliek ran as a Republican just as the incumbent he defeated, Jessica Holmes, ran as a Democrat. Like all elected officials, hes entitled to his beliefs and partisan tendencies and preferences and to run a campaign. But its also true that the duties of the State Auditor the states top accountant are overwhelmingly nonpartisan and that once in office, he needed to leave all the partisan nonsense at the door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interestingly, Boliek spoke a good game on the campaign trail about how he was going to bring integrity and fairness to this office if elected. But in a fashion thats become disturbingly typical for North Carolina Republicans, he said what he needed to say to get elected and then as soon as he was, he quickly thumbed his nose at every voter that is not part of the MAGA base. Boliek made clear just how thoroughly partisan of an actor he would be just four weeks after the election when he said, I pledge to be that guy that stands between Josh Stein, Jeff Jackson, and Rachel Hunt doing what they want to do without answering to accountability. That will be my job as your state auditor. I pledge to do that each and every day. As you can see, he only mentions keeping Democrats accountable and not Republicans, which is the exact opposite of how a State Auditor should approach their duties. The moment at which Boliek could have really stepped up and acted as a true leader for the entire state was when GOP lawmakers gave him the power to make appointments to the State Board of Elections. It was obvious to anyone with two eyes and a brain that what the General Assembly was doing was corrupt as heck when it effected the power switch during a lame duck session after the 2024 election. I know it probably sounds laughable in todays political climate for a leader to make a stand for the integrity of our system over raw political power, but Boliek could have made just such a stand by appointing a truly nonpartisan board. Instead, however, he happily spat in the face of all voters who elected Governor Stein to have this power by choosing extreme partisans. At my organization, Veterans for Responsible Leadership, we strive to help get people into public office that want to put their integrity and their duty to the constitution above all else. This is for the good of the country and the health of our democracy. Dave Boliek has clearly failed this test miserably and our state is worse off because of it. MUSKEGON, Mich. (WOOD) An $850,000 grant from the state will help a Muskegon project prepare a vacant plot of land for new housing. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has awarded the Brownfield Redevelopment Grant to a project aiming to bring 46 affordable housing units to the property at 122 West Muskegon Ave. near Terrace Street. The property used to be a McDonalds. It had various uses prior to that, EGLE said in a Wednesday release, including as a gas station, a dry cleaner and a paint shop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2016, the almost one-acre property has sat vacant. The site is contaminated, likely from the various commercial uses it saw in the 1900s, EGLE says. The grant will pay for assessments that will look for underground storage tanks and get rid of contaminated soil. It will also be used to demolish the propertys current building. Crews will build in its place a $16 million four-story, 46-unit housing development. The city says the project will improve the appearance, property values and walkability of this section of downtown Muskegon, and bring more retail traffic to the area, the release says. The development is expected to be finished by spring of 2026. Advertisement 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 WOODTV.com. (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi) In Japan there are many restaurant options for every budget. Sometimes, however, you might be in a rush, low on time or just craving a quick pasta fix. Mamma Pasta, a casual Italian chain, has you covered! I stopped at the Mamma Pasta location near Kanazawa Zoo in Yokohama City for a hearty meal after spending the day with my family enjoying the zoos residents. The zoo spans 13 hectares and is home to elephants, deer, giraffes, kangaroos and perfect for a full day of family fun. Mamma Pasta is about a five-minute drive from the zoo and about 20 minutes away from Yokosuka Naval Base. The restaurant offers seasonal dishes and lots of delicious options on the regular menu. The staff is very friendly, and from our seats we could see the chefs baking fresh pizza thanks to the open-kitchen concept of the restaurant. Mamma Pasta is run by cake shop chain Giraud, so dont forget to save space for some delicious dessert! The cake shop is conveniently located on the first floor and a staffer will head downstairs to grab your order. For our orders, my family went with the tomato and mascarpone cheese pasta, eggplant and salmon in cream sauce pasta, and vongole (pasta of clams with shell). In 10 minutes, three plates with heaping pasta portions arrived. Im sure that each plate has nearly double the size of the standard portion of other restaurants. This might be a chain, but the Mammas taste of Italy was not like a chain at all! My vongole pasta was the perfect mix of garlicky sauce and dozens of fresh clams. The noodles were served perfectly al dente. My wife and daughters carefully cooked pasta were just as delicious with fresh ingredients and excellent flavor. Though we thoroughly enjoyed our meals, we were, unfortunately, way too full to have dessert. If you plan to visit any of the many locations Mamma Pasta has around the Kanto area, make sure to save some room. Mamma Pasta Kanazawabunko Location: 2-6-27 Kamariyahigashi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture Hours: 11 a.m. 10 p.m. URL Tel: 045-785-3853 *Mamma Pasta has great lunchtime deals on weekends and holidays. The set includes main dish (pasta or pizza), soup, focaccia (refill free) and soft drink for 1,680 yen ($12). ** This article has been updated on July 23, 2025, at 1:25 p.m. to include a comment from a Harvard spokesperson. The State Department has opened an investigation into Harvard Universitys use of international visas, according to an announcement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio said all sponsors of the governments Exchange Visitor Program must fully comply with the exchange visitor regulations, transparency in reporting, and a demonstrated commitment to fostering the principles of cultural exchange and mutual understanding upon which the program was founded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The program is intended for foreign citizens who wish to enter the United States. It can used by anyone from a student to a professor to an au pair, according to its website. In doing so, the sponsoring institution must not conduct their programs in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States. The American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law, and provide safe environments for all students, Rubio said. The investigation will ensure that State Department programs do not run contrary to our nations interests. A Harvard spokesperson said the investigation is yet another retaliatory step taken by the administration, which violates their First Amendment rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvard continues to enroll and sponsor international scholars, researchers and students, and will protect its international community and support them as they apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall, the spokesperson said. The announcement comes amid talks of a deal between Harvard and the Trump administration, and as two lawsuits take shape in federal court. One of the lawsuits focuses on the Trump administrations attacks on international students, including its revocation of a key certification that allows Harvards international students to study there. What has happened between the Trump admin and Harvard? The Trump administration has gone after Harvard since April, cutting billions of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demanding an overhaul of Harvards leadership structure, admissions and hiring, the federal government warned the school could risk losing $9 billion in funding. Harvard rejected those demands, stating the government seeks to invade university freedoms long recognized by the Supreme Court. Then the fight over funding began. It started with a $2.2 billion funding freeze on April 14 after the school refused to comply with the federal administrations demands. In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit on April 21, arguing that its constitutional rights had been violated by the governments threats to pull billions of dollars in funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvard President Alan Garber also signed onto a letter with hundreds of other university presidents pushing back against government overreach and political interference by the Trump administration. At the beginning of May, the Trump administration said it would bar Harvard University from acquiring new federal grants while the school continues to refuse to comply with the administrations demands for change on its campus. A few days later, eight federal agencies cut $450 million in grants and then the United States Department of Health and Human Services cut $60 million in grants from the university. Harvard went on to amend its lawsuit against the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On May 16, a wave of nearly one thousand federal research grant terminations began, amounting to more than $2.4 billion, according to an analysis by Nature. In response, Harvard established a new Presidential Priorities Fund, asking for donations in the midst of federal cuts. Some of Harvards schools, including its School of Public Health, took to social media to ask for donations after nearly every single federal grant had been terminated. Other investigations and threats have been made against the institution, some of which have also focused on threatening the universitys ability to enroll international students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is the universitys second lawsuit. More Higher Ed Read the original article on MassLive. The Trump administration is attacking Europe over free speech, saying its regulation of social media and other online platforms amounts to Orwellian censorship. In a social media post Tuesday, the State Department, without giving any specifics, said thousands of people are being convicted for criticizing their own governments, echoing remarks Vice President JD Vance made earlier this year. This Orwellian message won't fool the United States, it said. Censorship is not freedom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department then appeared to link the claim to the Digital Services Act, the EUs tech and social media rulebook, saying: All the DSA protects is European leaders from their own people. The State Department did not immediately respond to follow-up questions. Several American social media giants, including Meta and X, have faced legal action under the DSA, which entered into force in 2022. Meanwhile, U.S. authorities have increasingly scrutinized the social media posts of foreigners seeking to enter the country, including students, with the State Department directing consular officers to be on the lookout for any indications of hostility toward the citizens, culture, government, institutions or founding principles of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Department post appeared to be a continuation of previous Trump administration criticism of EU content moderation rules. In March, Brendan Carr, the chair of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission, warned in a speech to the Mobile World Congress that the regulations threaten free speech. Vance launched an attack on European governments at the Munich Security Conference in February, lambasting what he deemed the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced in May a new visa restriction policy targeting foreign officials complicit in censoring what Americans post online, singling out Latin America and Europe. By Daphne Psaledakis and Bhargav Acharya (Reuters) -The State Department has opened an investigation into Harvard University's eligibility as a sponsor in the U.S. exchange visitor program, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday, as the Trump administration takes aim at the country's oldest and richest university. Harvard has become a central focus of the administration's broad campaign to leverage federal funding to force change at U.S. universities, which President Donald Trump says are gripped by antisemitic and "radical left" ideologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To maintain their privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, sponsors must comply with all regulations, including conducting their programs in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States," Rubio said. "The investigation will ensure that State Department programs do not run contrary to our nations interests," he added. He provided no explanation of why the probe had been opened. Harvard condemned the investigation. "This investigation is yet another retaliatory step taken by the Administration in violation of Harvard's First Amendment rights," a spokesperson for Harvard said in an emailed statement to Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The university is committed to continuing to comply with the applicable regulations and would support its international community as students apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall, the spokesperson said. The State Department's exchange visitor program grants nonimmigrant visas to approved individuals, including students, teachers, physicians and others, to participate in exchange visitor programs in the U.S. The State Department issued about 349,000 such visas in fiscal year 2023. Among the earliest actions the administration took against Harvard was the cancellation of hundreds of grants awarded to researchers on the grounds that the school failed to do enough to address harassment of Jewish students on its campus. The Trump administration has since sought to bar international students from attending Harvard; threatened Harvard's accreditation status; and opened the door to cutting off more funds by finding it violated federal civil rights law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Education separately on Wednesday said it opened national origin discrimination investigations into the University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. The investigations will determine if the universities are granting scholarships that are only for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or undocumented students, "in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964's prohibition against national origin discrimination, according to the statement. The moves come as the Trump administration has pursued wide-ranging efforts to fulfill the president's hardline immigration agenda. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis, Brendan O'Brien and Bhargav Acharya; Editing by Leslie Adler) The State Department will investigate Harvard Universitys eligibility to sponsor international students and researchers, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Wednesday, the latest attempt by the Trump administration to pressure the Ivy League university. The American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law, and provide safe environments for all students, Rubio said in a statement. The investigation will ensure that State Department programs do not run contrary to our nations interests. The State Department is probing the Exchange Visitor Program at Harvard, which allows the school to bring international students, researchers and faculty to the university for temporary periods. Revoking its status as a sponsor makes it harder for the university to bring these people to its Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rubio said that to maintain the privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, Harvard must act in a manner that does not compromise Americas national security interests. This isnt the first challenge Harvard has faced during President Donald Trumps second term. A federal judge in June blocked a Trump effort to prevent international students from enrolling at the university. And Harvard is suing the Trump administration for cutting more than $2 billion in federal grants. A university spokesperson said in a statement this was "yet another retaliatory step" taken by the Trump administration to violate Harvard's First Amendment rights. "Harvard continues to enroll and sponsor international scholars, researchers, and students, and will protect its international community and support them as they apply for U.S. visas and travel to campus this fall," the spokesperson said. "The University is committed to continuing to comply with the applicable Exchange Visitor Program regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fight with one of Americas most prestigious universities comes as the Trump administration says it wants to crack down on antisemitism at higher education institutions. Trump has accused Harvard of failing to protect its Jewish students in violation of the Civil Rights Act amid a greater reckoning on college campuses in the aftermath of pro-Palestinian protests. Harvard is an Anti-Semitic, Far Left Institution, as are numerous others, with students being accepted from all over the World that want to rip our Country apart, he wrote in a Truth Social post in April. The place is a Liberal mess, allowing a certain group of crazed lunatics to enter and exit the classroom and spew fake ANGER AND HATE. Trump suggested in late June that the federal government could reach a deal with Harvard, but that has yet to materialize. In an April statement, Harvards President Alan Garber acknowledged that there are valid concerns surrounding rising antisemitism but argued that the Trump administration was attempting to use these concerns as a justification for unlawful actions. These actions have stark real-life consequences for patients, students, faculty, staff, researchers, and the standing of American higher education in the world, Garber said. In this file photo, electric vehicles are displayed before a news conference with White House Climate Adviser Gina McCarthy and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg about the American Jobs Plan and to highlight electric vehicles at Union Station near Capitol Hill on April 22, 2021, in Washington, D.C. The Biden administration proposed over $170 billion in spending to boost the production of zero-emission buses and cars and increase the number of EV charging stations. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) The state of Idaho has paused all work on a federal program that was seeking to create a connected network of electric vehicle charging stations along every 50 miles of interstate highway, Idaho Office of Energy and Mineral Resources Administrator Cally Younger said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pause was implemented nearly six months ago, after state transportation officials received a Feb. 6 letter from the U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Highway Administration. The letter informed state officials that the new leadership of the U.S. Department of Transportation had rescinded all previous guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, or NEVI, program and was immediately suspending the approval of all state electric vehicle infrastructure development plans. Under the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs act that former President Joe Biden signed into law in 2021, Idaho was set to receive about $29 million over five years for creating a network of connected electric vehicle charging stations in Idaho. The letter pausing work on the NEVI program was sent to state transportation officials less than three weeks after President Donald Trump was sworn in Jan. 20. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE State will wait for new federal guidance on NEVI Formula Program A working group consisting of officials from the Idaho Transportation Department, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and Idaho Office of Energy and Mineral Resources had already gathered public feedback, conducted a study, narrowed down a list of potential electrical vehicle charging stations and was preparing to move forward with the initial round of sites when work on the program was paused in Idaho. The identified locations were potential sites for electric vehicle charging stations, but the state of Idaho paused work on the NEVI program in February 2025. (Screenshot courtesy of Idaho NEVI Formula Programs Siting, Feasibility, and Access Study) The Feb. 6 letter says states will be held harmless for not implementing the plans they developed and indicated new state plans will need to be developed and submitted for approval in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new leadership of the Department of Transportation has decided to review the policies underlying the implementation of the NEVI Formula Program, the Feb. 6 letter, signed by Emily Biondi, associate administrator for the Office of Planning, Environment and Realty, states. As result of the rescission of the NEVI Formula Program Guidance, (the Federal Highway Administration) is also immediately suspending the approval of all State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment plans for all fiscal years, Biondi added. Therefore, effective immediately, no new obligations may occur under the NEVI Formula Program until the updated final NEVI Formula Program Guidance is issued and new state plans are submitted and approved. Until new guidance is issued, reimbursement of existing obligations will be allowed in order to not disrupt current financial commitments. Younger said Friday that the state is waiting for guidance from the federal government before moving forward. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following these events, state NEVI Formula Program funds have been paused until (the Federal Highway Administration) releases updated NEVI Formula Program guidance, Younger wrote in an email to the Idaho Capital Sun on Friday. The Idaho Interagency Working Group is currently awaiting further guidance from (the feds). The goal of the NEVI program was to develop an interconnected network of electric vehicle charging stations that would make it more practical to drive an EV in Idaho, a large rural and mountainous state with few large cities. Through the strategic selection and prioritization of EV charging locations, Idaho will be able to support the creation of an EV charging network that will help EV drivers travel across our state with ease, former Idaho Office of Energy and Mineral Resources administrator Rich Stover said in July 2024. Younger confirmed that all work on the NEVI program had been paused in Idaho after the Idaho Capital Sun reached out last week requesting an update on where the program stands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also appears one of the websites created to gather public input about the NEVI program in Idaho, evidaho.org, has expired or been taken down. Idaho had not contributed any state funding to the NEVI program. NEVI State Plan Approval Suspension 2025-02-06 OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters filed a motion with the State Supreme Court on Tuesday, asking the court to lift a stay that pauses the purchase of Bibles for the upcoming school year. Back in March, the Oklahoma State Supreme Court temporarily blocked Walters and the State Department of Education from purchasing Bibles and Bible-based lessons for Oklahoma schools. Oklahoma Supreme Court temporarily blocks OSDE Bible purchase request Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court barred OSDE from issuing any new requests for the purchase of Bibles. The ruling also placed a temporary hold on a request for proposals seeking a supplier for a Bible-based curriculum. Walters issued a statement on Tuesday saying, woke educators and teacher union groups had gone through great lengths to remove Christianity in schools. The Left has launched an all-out assault on Christianity in this country and will stop at nothing to destroy the Bibles significance in our country and the principles that shaped this country. Students cannot fully understand American History without understanding the Bibles role in it, despite the liberal hysteria we continue to see. Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters Alex Luchenitser, AUs associate vice president and associate legal director, provided the following statement: We have not yet received a copy of the motion Walters filed today. That said, the courts order issuing the stay was sound, and there is no valid basis to lift it. Religious instruction should occur in the home and the house of worship, not in the public schools. Walters latest action is yet another attempt to violate the religious freedom of Oklahoma schoolchildren, parents, and taxpayers. Alex Luchenitser, AUs associate vice president and associate legal director Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The search for the third and final person still missing from a group that went over Dillon Falls continued Tuesday as authorities released the names of the two people whose bodies were already recovered. Six people went over Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River around 3 p.m. Saturday. On Tuesday, officials said the group was floating on inner tubes tied together when they hit the rapids. Three of them jumped from their tubes and made it to shore while the other three were swept away. Portland-area residents flock from Washington, California Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescue crews sprang into action and found one womans body relatively quickly. Divers found the body of a second woman on Monday. Authorities identified the women as Amanda Lloyd of Rockwall, Texas and Lindsay Bashan of Parkland, Florida. Lloyd had just turned 40 days before the incident. Bashan was 33. The names of the others, including the missing person, have not been released. Another full day of searching in the water, by air and on land continued in the area, the Deschutes County Sheriffs Office said. A Life Flight aircraft with a diver aboard scoured the water from the air, as did a fixed-wing airplane from the Portland Police Bureau. The same K9 who helped find the second woman was also on the scene for the search. The search continued for a third person swept over Dillon Falls near Bend, July 22, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) The search continued for a third person swept over Dillon Falls near Bend, July 22, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) The search continued for a third person swept over Dillon Falls near Bend, July 22, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) A search for 6 people who went over Dillon Falls near Bend was initiated, July 19, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) A search for 6 people who went over Dillon Falls near Bend was initiated, July 19, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) A search for 6 people who went over Dillon Falls near Bend was initiated, July 19, 2025 (Deschutes County Sheriffs Office) If the final missing individual is not found today (Tuesday), side-scanning sonar will be brought in to assist with deeper underwater searches, the sheriffs office said in a release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The general public is asked to stay away from Dillon Falls during the ongoing search. Authorities said Dillon Falls is difficult for even experienced paddlers. Dillon Falls is an extremely dangerous section of the Deschutes River, marked by a dramatic 15-foot drop and classified as a Class 5 Rapid, officials said. It features long, violent, and obstructed sections of whitewater with rocks, logs, and other debris that pose serious hazards even to experienced paddlers. As summer continues and people flock to the water for recreation, the sheriffs office provided 3 tips for everyone to remember: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Know the water Wear a life jacket Avoid alcohol and drugs KOIN 6 News will continue to follow 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 KOIN.com. The Statesville Police Department arrested Darryl Davekio Jordan in connection with the June 14 homicide of DAngelo Malindsay Barker. READ MORE: Enough is Enough: Statesville community reeling after two deadly shootings in one day Jordan, 33, was apprehended on Monday in Huntersville by Statesville police officers with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force. He was taken into custody without incident. Barker was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the 100 block of East Allison Street and died at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan has been charged with murder and is currently being held at the Iredell County Detention Center without bond, pending his first court appearance. VIDEO: Statesville community reeling after two deadly shootings in one day HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) Stepping Stone in Evansville will host a community conversation on substance use and abuse. It will run from 4 to 8 p.m. tomorrow at the facility on John Street. Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry will give opening remarks at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Q&A session with medical professionals including an addiction medicine doctor. See more info below. Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are. Advertisement 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). ST. LOUIS The St. Louis City NAACP is blasting the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) for what it calls systemic neglect from those charged with protecting the public. St. Louis City NAACP President Adolphus Pruitt said the May tornado exposed centuries-long discriminatory insurance practices. He referred to it as redlining, a practice that originated in the 1930s where government maps were used to prevent Black people from getting home loans and insurance in certain areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News During Tuesdays news conference, Pruitt expressed his views without holding back. I believe it is a failure, a regulatory and oversight failure, of the state of Missouri and its Department of Commerce and insurance. Why are the areas that were redlined in 1935 are the same areas in 2025 that represent the most uninsured, underinsured population in the city of St. Louis? And it happens to be in north St. Louis, where 91% of the people who live there are African American. They look like me. I dont believe thats an accident, Pruitt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouri DCI Director Angela Nelson says her department found no evidence of redlining in the state for about 30 years. We believe thats due to the fact that we are surveilling the market every year and were closely monitoring that, Nelson said. Nelson says what she did find after the tornado was a heartbreaking amount of uninsured storm victims, something she tells us she plans to address. A conflict of interest: STL Sheriffs new HR officer previously fired stirs controversy I agree with Mr. Pruitt. I am disappointed that previously we had not done uninsured estimates, but again, that was something that, coming on board under Gov. (Mike) Kehoes administration, I challenged our team to be able to do and that is a report well be undertaking every year. We will be devoting resources to try and increase the awareness of insurance and the need and importance of insurance in all communities across our state, Nelson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pruitt says hes working with state lawmakers to create legislation that would sharpen the focus on DCIs post-storm action. Conduct those market studies and produce some analytical reports that detail how the insurance industry has treated those folks in the disaster area, Pruitt said. Nelson, however, says she is open to working with Pruitt and others to address the problem. Nobody likes insurance. They dont like to talk about it until theres a problem. I would absolutely look forward to a partnership with Mr. Pruitt and the NAACP so that we can work together and address this problem, she said. Advertisement 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. Antonio Solario's 'Madonna and Child', a long-sought after Italian Renaissance masterpiece has finally returned home to the Civic Museum of Belluno after more than 50 years. But, in order for it to complete its journey, the painting's British owner, Barbara de Dozsa, needed a lot of convincing that it was "the right thing to do" as the 16th-century oil painting was stolen from the museum in 1973. De Dozsa, who inherited the canvas from her late ex-husband, had initially refused to return it, despite it being on Interpols stolen art database ever since the heist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was eventually persuaded to hand it back by Christopher Marinello, a lawyer and founder of Art Recovery International, who specialises in the recovery of looted art. When it comes to returning stolen art and doing the right thing, I can be annoyingly persistent, said Marinello, who has been widely described as the art worlds Sherlock Holmes. The artworks unconditional release was ultimately Barbara de Dozsas decision to make, and she chose wisely, he said in a statement. Marinellos family originated from the Veneto region, where Belluno is located. He handled the negotiations with de Dozsa on a pro bono basis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her kindness has restored my faith in people who unknowingly come into possession of stolen or looted works of art. The Civic Museum of Belluno originally acquired Antonio Solario's "Madonna and Child" in 1872 - Art Recovery International Antonio Solario was trained in Venice and worked during the first two decades of the 16th century. His work is exhibited across Europe, including at the National Gallery in London. The Civic Museum of Belluno originally acquired his 'Madonna and Child' in 1872 among other works that were stolen a century later. De Doszas former husband, the late Baron de Dozsa, bought the painting in 1973, soon after the robbery. Not knowing where it was from, he brought it back to his Norfolk estate in England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its whereabouts were unknown until Barbara de Dozsa tried to sell it at a regional auction house in 2017. Related She claimed ownership based on the UK Limitations Act of 1980, which states that a person who buys stolen goods can be recognised as the legal owner after six years, if the purchase was unrelated to the theft. Nonsense, said Marinello, who claimed the paintings listing on stolen art databases meant it could never be sold, exhibited, or even transported without the risk of being seized. Belluno welcomed the Solarios ultimate return with joy. Today is a day of celebration, the towns mayor Oscar de Pellegrin said in an Instagram post. In a statement, the museum praised Barbara de Dozsas good faith. The Civic Museum of Belluno will exhibit the Madonna and Child until 27 July. It will then be removed to undergo restoration work. New research has linked exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, and Type 2 diabetes -- a finding that could have implications for military personnel and families who work around or live on installations contaminated by the chemicals. A small study of patients at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City found that individuals with higher levels of PFAS in their bloodstreams were more at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. According to the research, published Monday in the eBioMedicine journal, increases in a range of PFAS exposure was associated with a 31% increased risk of developing the disease. Often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down naturally in the environment, the man-made substances are used in commercial products such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, cosmetics and stain repellents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Army Eyeing Replacement for M240B Machine Gun They also have widespread industrial use in lubricants; coatings; electronics; textiles, including flame retardant materials; firefighting foam; and more. The U.S. armed forces have used aqueous film forming foam to fight fires for decades and, while the services have been phasing it out as directed by Congress, it remains in use on oceangoing vessels, where the risk of fire poses a significant threat to personnel and equipment. Hundreds of installations also have been contaminated with the chemicals after years of long-term use in training and operations. A Defense Department review of 723 installations and former military sites found that 581 required some degree of remediation and cleanup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body does not use insulin, which is made by the pancreas, correctly and sugar accumulates in the blood. Over time, if not treated, it can cause organ damage. The small study involved 180 patients at Mount Sinai who were recently diagnosed with diabetes and compared them to 180 similar individuals without diabetes. The research found that the association could result from irregularities in amino acid biosynthesis and drug metabolism, disrupting the body's ability to regulate blood sugar. According to Vishal Midya, an assistant professor of environmental medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the study is one of the first to explore how the chemicals may disrupt the body's metabolism in ways that increase diabetes risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We divided persons in four different groups [based on the level of PFAS measured in their blood. The results showed that] if exposure goes from one group to another, with the group four being maximum [exposure], the risk of Type 2 diabetes increases by 30%," Midya said during an interview with Military.com. The research did not prove that PFAS contamination was the cause of the condition but did show the two have an association. "There has been some literature, particularly animal studies, showing that PFAS actually can cause Type 2 diabetes in animal models, but we had never seen anything like that in a usual, normal population," Midya said. The patients reviewed in the study were not in jobs normally associated with high PFAS exposure. They were regular New Yorkers who likely were exposed through their drinking water or food packaging, Midya said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, they all had some level of PFAS in their bloodstreams. "It surprised me, the fact that we found PFAS in all the people," Midya said. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to health issues such as decreased response to vaccines, kidney cancer and low birth weight, but the research proving a direct link has remained elusive. A study released in 2023 showed a direct connection between perfluorooctanesulfonic acid, or PFOS, a type of PFAS chemical, and testicular cancer in military firefighters. It was the first to really measure PFAS levels in a U.S. military population and examine the chemicals' ties to cancer, according to the study co-author Mark Purdue, a researcher at the National Cancer Institute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Little can be done to reduce the levels of PFAS in one's bloodstream, as they accumulate over time and are not processed by body systems. An Australian study published in 2022 found that firefighters with high levels of PFAS were able to reduce their numbers by 10% by donating blood every 12 weeks, or by 30% if they donated plasma every six weeks. Given that blood tests for PFAS levels are not standard, the best one can do to reduce the likelihood of developing a PFAS-linked illness is to reduce one's exposure. This means being mindful about drinking water, choosing any option that has been filtered to reduce PFAS chemicals, reducing the use of non-stick cookware, using PFAS-free cleaning products, and checking labels on personal care products and cosmetics. "There are ways we can reduce exposure, but we really can't make it zero," Midya said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The services have been switching over to fluorine-free firefighting foam on installations, but the Defense Department announced in May that it would need an extension to Oct. 1, 2026, to complete the process. According to the DoD, it has six products available that meet military specifications for firefighting but must adapt more than 1,000 facilities and 6,000 pieces of mobile firefighting equipment to accommodate the new foams. The authors of the diabetes research said a larger study would be helpful in supporting the findings of their research but added that the information can be useful to understand the impact of PFAS on public health. "Findings can help us design more effective interventions for the early prevention of Type 2 diabetes in the future, taking into account individuals' exposures to environmental chemicals, along with other well-known genetic, clinical and lifestyle factors implicated in diabetes development," Dr. Damaskini Valvi, associate professor of public health and environmental medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine, said in a statement. Related: Pentagon Likely to Continue Using PFAS-Based Firefighting Foam for 2 More Years, Watchdog Says THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) Police are searching for a man accused of punching a 64-year-old subway rider in an unprovoked attack Tuesday afternoon. The incident happened on a southbound 2 train around 1:50 p.m. More Local News The train was approaching the 149th Street-Grand Concourse station when the suspect approached the victim, who was seated, and randomly punched him in the face, police say. A dispute broke out between the suspect and other passengers before he exited the train, police say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect is described as a man with black hair, last seen wearing a dark-colored blazer, a dark-colored t-shirt, dark-colored pants, and white sneakers. The NYPD released the following video of the suspect. The victim was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries. Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here. Advertisement 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. In June, the Sudanese Armed Forces appointed Prime Minister Kamil Idris to lead the civilian cabinet in Port Sudan, the wartime capital on the Red Sea coast. Idris wanted an overhaul, to appoint a team of technocrats to run the new government. But Gebreil Ibrahim and Mini Arko Minawi leaders of two powerful armed groups from Darfur refused to leave their posts, and army leader Abdelfattah al-Burhan overruled Idris to keep them there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burhans concession to Ibrahim and Minawi allows them to keep ministries that control [government] revenue, said Suliman Baldo, the founder of the Sudan Transparency and Policy Tracker, a think tank. Al Jazeera sent written questions to army spokesperson Nabil Abdullah, asking him why al-Burhan overruled Idris. No response had been received by the time of publication. On the other side of the war is a coalition of armed groups that have, de facto, divided Sudan in half after more than two years of civil war. The Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, which is battling the army, has formed an alliance with smaller armed factions and declared its intention to form a parallel government that will ostensibly represent all of Sudan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RSF-backed coalition has already unveiled its leadership council, on which the leaders of armed groups feature in prominent positions. Analysts told Al Jazeera that SAF and the RSF are trying to meet the demands of powerful militias in a bid to keep their respective battlefield alliances intact. A future parallel government In February, the RSF announced that it had formed an alliance with the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), an armed group from the Nuba Mountains led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu. From the beginning of the war, it had remained neutral, shocking observers when it allied with the RSF to form a new alliance and parallel government, which they named Tasis (foundation). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The SPLM-N governs large swaths of South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, and has been at war with the army as well as the RSF, which used to be the armys ally before they turned their guns on each other for 40 years. SPLM-N was born out of the SPLM, which emerged in the early 1980s to fight for southern independence and to end its marginalisation by the elites of northern and central Sudan. The Nuba a group of about 50 communities from what was then central Sudan was part of the SPLM. But when South Sudan seceded in 2011, Nuba fighters rebranded as SPLM-N and continued their rebellion against Khartoum, fighting and defeating the RSF, which was deployed to fight them by former President Omar al-Bashir in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly a decade later, on July 2, Tasis announced a 31-member senior leadership council, with Hemedti as its head and SPLM-Ns al-Hilu as deputy. SPLM-Ns Abdelaziz al-Hilu speaks in Juba, South Sudan, March 28, 2021 [Jok Solomun/Reuters] While the full list of the 31-member council is not yet public, it also includes Tahir al-Hajar, the head of the Darfur-based Sudan Liberation Gathering Forces (SLGF), according to an interview he gave Al Jazeera Mubasher. Tasis will soon roll out a government to help the RSF and its allies in their fight against the army, Kholood Khair, Sudan expert and founder of Confluence Advisory think tank, believes. The RSF wants to exploit the guise of a formal government to better profit from aid groups, buy sophisticated weapons such as fighter jets that can only be sold to states, and boost its stance in any future negotiations with the army, she explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They do not want to go into any kind of mediation as a rebel group. They want to be seen as a government [to boost their legitimacy], Khair said. Al Jazeera asked Tasis spokesman, Alaa Nugud, to respond to accusations that the alliance was simply formed to garner international legitimacy for armed groups on the ground. While he did not respond before publication, Tasis portrays itself as the cornerstone of a New Sudan seeking to protect historically neglected and persecuted communities, even as the RSF stands accused of committing ethnic killings and genocide against sedentary communities known as non-Arabs in Darfur. However, this is just a group formed out of war dynamics despite their entire narrative of it being a coalition of the marginalised, said Hamid Khalafallah, an expert on Sudan and PhD candidate at the University of Manchester. Poster children On the Port Sudan governments side, Gebreil Ibrahim and Mini Arko Minawi lead the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and the Sudan Liberation Army Mini Minawi (SLA-MM), respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two armed groups mainly comprised sedentary farming non-Arab communities from the vast western region of Darfur who came together to fight a rebellion against the central government in 2003. Their stated aim was to end the persecution and neglect of their communities, but like most of Sudans armed groups, they ended up using their weapons to negotiate access to state coffers and prominent posts in government instead. What this whole war has shown is if you pick up a gun, then you can get power, Khair said. The RSF are really the poster children for this model, she added. The RSF in its current form was born during the Darfur war, which started in 2003, when al-Bashir tapped Mohamed Hamdan Hemedti Dagalo and his feared Arab Popular Defence Forces (Janjaweed) militia to crush the rebellion there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Bashir rewarded Hemedti, who took part in countless atrocities against non-Arabs, by repackaging the Janjaweed into the RSF in 2013, with Hemedti at its head and a place with the army. As part of the state, Hemedti was able to consolidate control over lucrative gold mines, expand recruitment and lease out fighters to partake in regional wars for tens of millions of dollars. Soldiers from the RSF in the East Nile province on June 22, 2019 [Hussein Malla/AP] When al-Bashir was deposed by a popular uprising in April 2019, a wealthy, powerful Hemedti became al-Burhans deputy in the Transitional Military Council. A militia state with a war economy? Tasis, as well as the army-backed government in Port Sudan, are beholden to armed actors, which means more local commanders could expand recruitment and acquire weapons, hoping to get strong enough to gain political power, analysts warn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mohamed al-Jakomi Seid Ahmed, an army-aligned commander from northern Sudan, made a statement a few weeks ago that hinted at his aspirations, Sudan Transparency and Policy Trackers Baldo said. Al-Jakomi said that he would be training a whopping 50,000 men in Eritrea to protect Sudans Northern State from possible incursion by the RSF. He confirmed his plan in an interview with Al Jazeera Mubasher. In addition, Baldo referenced Abu Aqla Keikel, whose force was instrumental in helping the army recapture the agricultural heartland of Gezira state three months after defecting from the RSF to the army in October 2024. Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Al Jazeeras reporting point to atrocities committed by Keikels fighters, prompting the European Union to sanction him on July 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, analysts say his power is growing and he may harbour ambitions to secure some form of political power. These are individuals who can hold the army hostage through their autonomous militias as a way to secure seats around the cake when it is divided, Baldo told Al Jazeera. The war has displaced millions of Sudanese people [File: Marwan Mohamed/EPA] To appease armed actors that they want to keep onside, the army-backed government will likely create new positions as rewards, Jawhara Kanu, an expert on Sudans economy, said. The government will just have to keep swelling with as many ministries as possible to reward as many people as possible, she told Al Jazeera. However, neither Port Sudan nor Tasis will be able to hand out political posts forever, especially if the war continues and more powerful militias emerge. The army doesnt have enough revenue a result of losing control of nearly half the country, which encompasses profitable gold mines and agricultural lands, according to Khair. She added that Hemedti and his family are unlikely to cede much of their private wealth to pay recruits. Throughout the war, the RSF incentivised its fighters by allowing them to plunder the cities and villages they attacked. But as loot runs dry, militias may resort to building their fiefdoms by setting up checkpoints to heavily tax people and goods passing through, warns Khair. The new predatory behaviour, supported by the state in RSF and army areas, will be checkpoints. And these checkpoints will mark one rebel leaders area from another, she told Al Jazeera. In a decades time, it may eventually be difficult to tell which militia is loyal to the army and which is loyal to the RSF, Khair added. Jul. 23For Natalie Garvin and her twin daughters, Madeline and Elizabeth Lambert, being able to spread joy through good food and drink is the motivation behind the Sugar and Spice food truck. The food truck offers a range of miniature doughnuts, each packed with a pop of unique flavor, along with homemade chai and coffee. The name of the truck comes after the two main offerings doughnuts for sugar and chai for spice. "At the end of the day it's all about love, we just want to spread kindness," Garvin said, standing next to the pink truck on a July morning. "When you're giving out love, you're receiving it too." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doughnut flavor options include Nutella drizzle, huckleberry, lemon zest and powdered sugar mash up. The honey and salt doughnut packs the perfect balance between sweet and salty, and the sugar and spice doughnut, the namesake bite, is a mix of sugar and cinnamon. It's a simple menu, Elizabeth said, allowing focus on quality over quantity. Using an automatic miniature doughnut machine, Garvin and the Lamberts can whip out hundreds of doughnuts an hour. The doughnuts have a crisp exterior with a soft and warm interior. The toppings are intentionally chosen to highlight the flavors people love while also utilizing creativity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outside of the set menu, Sugar and Spice has numerous specials throughout the year. The current summer special is a s'mores doughnut, mimicking the outdoor spirit that many love about this place. "We wanted to bring in the essence of Montana and West Glacier and this place we love," Elizabeth Lambert said. The current summer special menu also features a lemon lavender spritz drink and a berry yogurt bowl, as well as a special chai dubbed the Grinnell Ginger Chai, a blend of black tea, ginger, turmeric, cardamom and cloves. Sugar and Spice makes all of the chai drinks in house, specifically a labor of love for Garvin's husband Cary and Elizabeth. The Smokey the Bear chai is made with pine-smoked lapsang tea, a touch of cocoa powder and other spices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Going to the Sun chai is more of a traditional masala chai with cinnamon, star anise, pepper, cardamom and cloves. And is Garvin's favorite. Most teas are steeped for three to five minutes. Milk alternatives are offered at no additional charge. Originally from Michigan, Garvin moved to the Valley in 2022. With both daughters' home from after graduating from college and the help of her husband Cary, the food truck is a family endeavor. Elizabeth studied fashion in Paris for her undergraduate degree and is planning to return soon to get her masters. Madeline, who graduated from Michigan State University, is returning to school next fall to get her masters in biochemistry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a good reset and it's a good way to spend time with everyone," Madeline said. Elizabeth did all the graphic design and marketing for the truck. Sugar and Spice also values local ingredients. The vanilla comes from Wild Montana Foods out of Whitefish and the honey from Great Northern Honey Company in Kalispell. The truck is parked in Coram at 135 Seville Lane, on Thursdays and Fridays to offer early morning goers to Glacier National Park a fun breakfast option. They also frequent the West Glacier KOA on Mondays. Weekend locations vary. The truck is also available for catering and events, including weddings, parties and corporate events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best way to stay up to date with where Sugar and Spice is Instagram at instagram.com/sugarandspice_mt/. Reporter Kate Heston may be reached at 758-4459 or kheston@dailyinterlake.com. Elizabeth Lambert, left, and her mother, Natalie Garvin, stand at their Sugar and Spice food truck. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake) Sugar and Spice parked in Coram on a July morning. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake) The mini doughnuts at Sugar and Spice in Coram. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake) Specials at Sugar and Spice food truck. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake) The mini doughnuts at Sugar and Spice in Coram. (Kate Heston/Daily Inter Lake) WASHINGTON (DC News Now) People across the DMV have a new way to start their day with the arrival of Sunrise on The Hill, a show that connects politics and our communities in D.C, Maryland, and Virginia. The morning program, hosted by Hillary Howard and Cory Smith, brings together the resources of The Hill, NewsNation, DC News Now, and Nexstars D.C. Bureau. For three decades, The Hill has been an institution in D.C., the go-to source for news from Congress and the White House, for policy debates, and thoughtful analysis. The Hills powerhouse reporting is going to fuel Sunrise on The Hill like nothing else can. Hillary Howard and Cory Smith, hosts of Sunrise on The Hill. Whether youre preparing for your day, en route to work, or keeping yourself updated on the happenings in D.C., our team is here, providing you the best in analysis and coverage of all things Washington. Sunrise on The Hill is for policy makers, the politically curious, and everyone who calls the DMV home. Join us each morning from 6 a.m. to 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. The Supreme Court has yet again given President Donald Trump the go-ahead to oust the Democratic members of an important federal regulatory board, despite longstanding laws that seek to insulate the regulators from politically motivated firings. This time, the court allowed Trump to fire three Biden-appointed members of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which establishes safety standards for more than 15,000 products sold to Americans. By an apparent vote of 6-3, the justices granted the Trump administrations request to block a lower-court order that had allowed the Democrats to remain in their posts on the five-member board. In a two-paragraph ruling, the high court said the case was very similar to one the justices ruled on in May, allowing Trump to fire members of two labor-related federal boards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courts majority also issued a mild rebuke to lower-court judges for not heeding that earlier ruling, even though it was the sort of emergency decision that does not constitute binding precedent. Although our interim orders are not conclusive as to the merits, they inform how a court should exercise its equitable discretion in like cases, the Supreme Courts unsigned order said. The decision Wednesday cleared the way for Trump to fire Mary Boyle, Alexander Hoehn-Saric and Richard Trumka from the consumer product regulator without citing the kind of malfeasance or dereliction of duty the commissions key statute requires to remove such officials. All three liberal justices dissented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By allowing the President to remove Commissioners for no reason other than their party affiliation, the majority has negated Congresss choice of agency bipartisanship and independence, Justice Elena Kagan wrote in a pugnacious, three-page dissent. Kagans opinion, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, claimed the high courts actions exhibited a lack of care and relied on the scantiest of explanations. The majority rejects Congresss design of a whole class of agencies by layering nothing on nothing, Kagan complained, lamenting the courts use of emergency-docket rulings to grant Trump sweeping power over federal agencies and spending. Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh issued a solo concurring opinion that appeared to concede at least the procedural part of Kagans argument. He said that, rather than decide these cases on the emergency docket, the court should have ordered full legal briefing and heard oral arguments on whether the president has the authority to fire agency board members for any reason. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kavanaugh suggested the high court was somewhat to blame for leaving lower-court judges to try to figure out whether to follow a 1935 Supreme Court decision that upheld limits on a presidents ability to fire regulators. That decision, known as the Humphreys Executor case, formally remains binding precedent, but the high courts recent emergency rulings have implied that a majority of the justices want to abandon it. By not hearing and resolving such cases on the merits, we may leave the lower courts and affected parties with extended uncertainty and confusion about the status of the precedent in question, Kavanaugh said. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is set to visit the Queen City this fall as part of a book tour. Justice Jackson, the first Black woman to serve on the nations highest court, will appear in Charlotte alongside Harvey B. Gantt, the first Black mayor of Charlotte and the first Black student to integrate at Clemson University. Exclusive: 1-on-1 with Cal GM, former Panthers HC Ron Rivera whos in Charlotte for ACC media week Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 7 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, Justice Jackson and the Harvey B. Gantt Center will hold an event at the historic Carolina Theatre in support of her memoir, Lovely One. Tickets for the event cost $25 and will go on sale on Friday, July 25. According to the books description, Justice Jackson recounts her familys journey from segregation to her Supreme Court confirmation. She says the memoir marries the public record of her life with many lesser-known details. To learn more about the event or to buy tickets, 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 Queen City News. Washington The Supreme Court on Wednesday said it will allow President Trump to fire three members of the independent Consumer Product Safety Commission, a victory for the president as he tests the bounds of his removal powers. The order from the court is the latest in which it has refused to reinstate independent regulators who were fired by the president without cause. It comes as Mr. Trump has moved to exert more control over the executive branch and has been overseeing a reorganization of federal agencies. The unsigned decision appeared to fall along ideological lines, and came over the dissent of the three liberal justices, Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court said the bid by the Trump administration to remove the trio of commissioners is controlled by its earlier ruling in a case known as Trump v. Wilcox that allowed the firings of members of two independent labor boards. "Although our interim orders are not conclusive as to the merits, they inform how a court should exercise its equitable discretion in like cases. The stay we issued in Wilcox reflected 'our judgment that the government faces greater risk of harm from an order allowing a removed officer to continue exercising the executive power than a wrongfully removed officer faces from being unable to perform her statutory duty,'" the court said. "The same is true on the facts presented here, where the Consumer Product Safety Commission exercises executive power in a similar manner as the National Labor Relations Board, and the case does not otherwise differ from Wilcox in any pertinent respect." Kagan, in a dissent joined by Sotomayor and Jackson, accused the majority of using the court's emergency docket to "destroy the independence of an independent agency, as established by Congress." The request for emergency relief from the high court by Solicitor General D. John Sauer arose from a federal judge's decision last month that found Mr. Trump's removal of the three commissioners Mary Boyle, Alexander Hoehn-Saric and Richard Trumka Jr. was unlawful and blocked their terminations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officials had been named to the five-member Consumer Product Safety Commission by former President Joe Biden for seven-year terms. Boyle's term was set to end in October, Hoehn-Saric's time on the panel was due to end in October 2027 and Trumka's in October 2028. But in May, the three were told that their positions were terminated, effective immediately. Under federal law, a president cannot remove a commissioner at-will, but only for neglect of duty or malfeasance. The removed members sued over their terminations in May and asked a federal judge in Maryland, where the Consumer Product Safety Commission is headquartered, to restore them to their positions. They succeeded in their bid last month, when U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox allowed the three commissioners to resume their roles on the panel. "Depriving this five-member commission of three of its sitting members threatens severe impairment of its ability to fulfill its statutory mandates and advance the public's interest in safe consumer products," Maddox wrote in his decision. "This hardship and threat to public safety significantly outweighs any hardship defendants might suffer from plaintiffs' participation on the CPSC." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A unanimous panel of three judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit declined to block the district court's decision and allow Mr. Trump to fire the commissioners. The commissioners, Judge James Wynn wrote in a brief opinion, "were appointed to serve fixed terms with statutory protections designed to preserve the commission's independence and partisan balance. Permitting their unlawful removal would thwart that purpose and deprive the public of the commission's full expertise and oversight. And because the attempted removals were unlawful, the Plaintiff-Commissioners never ceased to lawfully occupy their offices." The Supreme Court's order blocks the district judge's decision that reinstated the commissioners to their roles. Sauer's emergency appeal to the Supreme Court regarding the commissioners' firings was one of several involving the president's power to remove executive officers, which his administration has argued is largely unrestricted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The justices in May cleared the way for Mr. Trump to remove without cause two members of two different independent labor boards while legal fights over their terminations move forward. Over the dissent of the three liberal justices, the high court's unsigned decision said that the risk of harm to the government outweighs that of the removed officers, the line it cited in Wednesday's ruling. Sauer said that May decision from the high court regarding the removals of Gwynne Wilcox from the National Labor Relations Board and Cathy Harris from the Merit Systems Protection Board should have foreclosed the reinstatement of the Consumer Product Safety Commission members. The district court's order, he wrote, effectively transfers control of the panel from Mr. Trump to three members who were appointed by his predecessor. "That plain-as-day affront to the President's fundamental Article II powers warrants intervention now," the solicitor general wrote. In her dissent, Kagan accused the conservative majority of effectively overturning the 1935 decision in the case Humphrey's Executor v. United States, which said Congress could impose removal protections for the members of certain independent agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The majority has acted on the emergency docket with 'little time, scant briefing, and no argument' to override Congress's decisions about how to structure administrative agencies so that they can perform their prescribed duties," she wrote. "By means of such actions, this Court may facilitate the permanent transfer of authority, piece by piece by piece, from one branch of Government to another." Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 5 new galleries set to open at National Air and Space Museum Lets be honest, if youre sensitive and environmentally-minded, it can be downright difficult to stay positive in light of so many different threats to the ocean. Whether it is deep sea mining, overfishing, pollution, or bottom trawling, theres a lot going on that demands vigilance and action. The good news is that there are many different individuals and organizations fighting the good fight and one of those is Hugo Tagholm, Executive Director of Oceana UK. Oceana is the worlds largest advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation and they use science-based policies to help coastal countries rebuild abundant and biodiverse marine ecosystems. Before joining Oceana, Hugo served as the director of Surfers Against Sewage and built up a formidable alliance of surfers and ocean lovers throughout the UK and beyondallies that include the King of England and Sir David Attenborough. Hugo Tagholm, the surfer who fought against sewage and made friends with the King. Nick Pumphrey SURFER: Hugo, its a pleasure to connect and thank you for taking the time to speak with me. Let me get this straight, did you start Surfers Against Sewage(SAS)? Hugo Tagholm: Well Chris, the organization started back in May 1990, and I first got involved as a member and activist in 91. I took over in 2008 as it was about to be shut down -it was broken and needed new direction. So, I refounded it as someone who had a long history with the organisation. I think refounding is the right term to use because it needed to be modernized as a charity and organization that that could scale and deliver even more impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We went from having three people and a 180,000 annual turnover to an organizational budget of 2.5 million and 35 staff. On the volunteer front, we jumped from a few thousand to a few hundred thousand annually. It was quite the turnaround, we became nationally significant breaking big new stories on water quality, on plastic pollution, and other issues. Im proud of where I took it to and where I positioned the organisation nationally. Im particularly proud that our campaign investigations, tech innovation, and relentless pursuit into sewage pollution exposed the failures of the 1990s privatisation of the industry and the obscene levels of sewage pollution in UK rivers and seas: previously hidden away from sight. This is a national environmental and financial scandal that will take years to repair. "When I took over SAS, we went from having three people and a $100,000 a year to an organizational budget of $2.5 million and 35 staff." Hugo Tagholm SURFER: So was it this that led to meeting the King? HT: I first hosted the then Prince of Wales for an event in Cornwall in 2015 and built a solid relationship with him over the subsequent years, which culminated in him becoming SASs Patron in 2020. He is a long-term environmentalist, and we struck a great rapport on the plastic pollution campaigns we pioneered at the time. It was so interesting spending time with the now King, and amazing to have his support for our work which really elevated the profile of many of our campaigns. I also managed to get SAS nominated as one of the charities for Harry and Meghans wedding. SURFER: Great to hear that man, talk about powerful allies! Now, with Oceana youve been campaigning against bottom trawling right? HT: I think theres an unfortunate and unnecessary conflict around fishing and environmentalism. The big issue is rampant global overfishing driven by Big Industry interests and multinational companies. These companies dont care about the same things that local fishermen, coastal communities and surfers care about. Theyre not invested in local coastlines - do but they hide behind the smokescreen of local fishing interests the local and small-scale fishers - and pretend that theyre all one and the same. No one has an issue with someone going out on a small vessel to catch their dinner, feed their family, or make a living selling their catch. However, if youve got a hundred meter factory vessel with a net big enough to hold an airplane, that is a completely different thing. Particularly if its fishing in sensitive areas, marine protected areas, which is what has been happening for many years, not just in the UK, but around the world. In the new Attenborough film, they focus on this and examine where were going now with that type of vessel, deep into the Antarctic catching part of the base of the food chain krill - for what? Basically, to feed dogs and cats, and make cosmetics, its ridiculous. SURFER: I couldnt agree with you more, even though we have an overwhelming amount of scientific facts and data, we still carry on with ridiculous practices. What do you think needs to change? HT: It's a really interesting topic because we are in such a complicated political time in the states and other parts around the world, a time of nationalism and populism, propaganda and misinformation. There is a false narrative of Green versus Growth, when what we need is Greener Growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we need multilateralism more than ever to solve the problems we face. Weve seen how it can work in the ocean space; despite there being new threats to whales, the international whaling moratorium in 1984 brought whale populations back from the brink and it showed our countries can work together to enforce policies and laws that have a massive, positive, environmental impact. How cm we come together to solve new issues? I think were seeing that with the High Sea Treaty to protect biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. We need 60 to ratify the treaty. At the recent UN conference in Nice it went from about 20 to 51 countries agreeing. This is a treaty that could help govern a part of the world that has been out of sight and mind, largely ungoverned and outside the law. Where clandestine industries can operate and abuse nature. If ratified, all the treaty will both help safeguard the high seas, but also on the health and prosperity of countless coastal communities that depend on a protected ocean. Around the world weve got to manage fish populations properly. Governments must collectively and collaboratively make swift decisions to not just protect but restore thriving fish stocks worldwide. All too often fish are caught well beyond limits set by science and sadly that will always lead to disaster. Were also seeing the rising threat of deep-sea mining threatening the global ocean. Hugo founded the Plastic Free Awards and presented Attenborough with the lifetime achievement award. Al McKinnon SURFER: Where does Oceana fit into promoting multinational cooperation? HT: In my previous organization, Surfers Against Sewage, we focused on marine pollution and mobilizing people around that issue nationally, both on plastic waste and water quality. Im proud that we exposed emerging threats and made these important national issues with clear policy change impacts. However, I always wanted to work internationally, on the biggest global threats to our seas, and where I could work with experts around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clearly, we must still fight pollution domestically, in all countries, but restoring our seas, tackling destructive ocean industries, and ensuring our marine protected area are enforced is more vital than ever in this Ocean Decade. Particularly as we race towards 2030, by which time the world leaders must protect at least 30% of land and sea for nature. That campaigning to stop overfishing - and the destruction caused by industrial bottom trawlers in marine protected areas is an area were campaigning hard on. Theres also the transition from oil and gas into offshore renewables as we seek and produce more sustainable, low carbon, nature friendly forms of energy. We need this to be done in the most ocean positive way possible, limiting damage to marine life, and even potentially creating new types of protected areas where life can thrive. The transition to renewables wont be without obstacles and impacts, but the goal is for a net positive result for the climate and stable, biodiverse and healthy marine ecosystems. I long wanted to work on the big global ocean issues, and Im stoked to not only lead the UK team but also work with the global team and impact at events including the recent UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. We had some major wins on our global campaigns there - to safeguard Marine Protected Areas and deliver sustainable fisheries with local communities. Whilst people can be sceptical about these international conferences, I see progress, collaboration and impact accelerating, and so many talented and passionate individuals truly driving and scaling the change we need. SURFER: Yeah, example being that this year is COP 30 and I was born around COP 1. You sort ask yourself, are we still getting together to talk about the same things? Is anything getting done? HT: Its always important that we demand more alongside the need to recognise our success, progress and impact. Let me give you some specific examples from Nice. The UK government took the next steps to stop destructive bottom trawling inside English marine protected areas. Once implemented this will protect 35,000 km2 of seabed in English seas from this most damaging and unselective form of fishing. We also successfully called on the UK government to commit to the High Seas Treaty. And we had good progress in many other Oceana countries and on many issues with our partners from transparency in the fishing industry to plastic pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Internationally, I was so impressed particularly with the French Polynesian announcement of the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the world, a total of almost 5 million km2 with over 1 million km2 highly protected from extractive industries. Their minister spoke at an event we organised at the conference - it was so moving as he spoke of the family lineage of his father, his grandfather and his great-grandfather as fishers and being connected with the ocean, and what it meant to them culturally and economically. You can see that it is not just an environmental necessity but also as an economic and cultural necessity to preserve the way of life. I think thats so often lost in the Global North countries, where ministers making decisions may have no prior experience or emotional connectivity with their portfolio. I really value voices that have a strong connection to the sea. Similarly, the Ghanaian fisheries Minister, Emilia Arthur, is a very eloquent, experienced and energetic leader who spoke beautifully about fisheries and nature. There were many other countries that delivered good commitments for the ocean. Chile and Portugal being two notable examples on new, big, and bold Marine Protected Areas. That was impressive. I was proud from a domestic point of view, but I was also proud to see many other countries coming together, and the incredible impact of the global ocean conservation community and my team at Oceana. Professionally, I also get to be around the ocean a lot, which is great and my love for surfing never dims. We have a great little left out the front of our Cornwall office that always motivates and inspires me! Related: Coral in Focus: If You Can See It, You Can Save It The Surfer and The King of England Unite To Protect The Ocean first appeared on Surfer on Jul 23, 2025 DENVER (WTNH) Three Connecticut towns were included in a survey asking parents for the best places to raise free-range kids in the U.S., according to a press release by Apricot Content. The survey, conducted by Denver, Colorado-based home-buying group We Buy Houses in Denver, asked 3,004 parents to name the best places for, bringing back an 80s-style childhood. Think safe streets, community trust, backyard adventures, and a slower pace of life. The three Connecticut towns which made the list of 146 nation-wide municipalities were: Madison (71st overall) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tucked along the Connecticut shoreline, Madison offers the perfect blend of beachside calm and New England charm, said the press release. Kids grow up exploring Hammonasset Beach, or biking to the library. The Green hosts everything from summer concerts to farmers markets. Many parents work in healthcare, finance, or remote roles, but life here stays grounded built around family traditions, salty air, and a safe, tight-knit community vibe. FILE PHOTO Staples High School. Westport (75th overall) On the Long Island Sound and close to New York City, Westport blends coastal calm with big-city careers. Kids grow up sailing, swimming at Compo Beach, and taking part in a robust arts scene. Cotton Hollow Preserve in Glastonbury Glastonbury (132 overall) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A charming suburb of Hartford, Glastonbury blends colonial charm with modern livability. With farmstands, orchards, and historic greenways, its the kind of place where kids go apple-picking in fall and roam the trails by summer. Parents working in healthcare, bioscience, education, or tech enjoy the commute but weekends are for hiking Meshomasic State Forest, playing town league sports, and attending community picnics. Its polished, peaceful, and wonderfully kid-friendly. The No. 1-ranked municipality on the list was Asheville, North Carolina. The top selection in New England was Middlebury, Vermont. All 50 states were included on the list. The survey noted that 66% of parents who participated defined 1980s-style or free-range parenting as having, independence with boundaries, by letting children explore with some safety provisions in place. Some feedback from the survey included: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 18% of parents described free-range parenting as letting children play outside unsupervised 24% of parents were comfortable with letting children ages 6-8 play unsupervised, while another 38% said the age range was 9-11, and 32% said not until aged 12 or older. 76% of parents said they feel their current neighborhood is safe enough to let their kids roam, and 66% of parents said they would consider moving to a town that is known for being kid-friendly. 83% of parents said they had more freedom growing up than their kids do today, and 33% wanted their kids to have less screen time and 27% wanted their kids to have more time in nature. Advertisement 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. The intruder accused of killing American Idol music supervisor Robin Kaye and her husband, rock musician Thomas Deluca, allegedly called 911 from inside their Encino, Calif., home on July 10 after shooting them with their own gun, the District Attorneys office confirmed to PEOPLE. Despite the call, it took authorities four days to discover their bodies on July 14. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed the new details on Monday, July 21, during a town hall meeting in Encino, where hundreds of residents gathered to voice frustration about a rise in home burglaries across the neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to investigators, 22-year-old Raymond Boodarian was burglarizing Kaye and Delucas $4.5 million home on White Oak Avenue on July 10 when the couple unexpectedly returned. Police believe that after the couple walked in, a confrontation ensued" and Boodarian shot them both multiple times in the head with a firearm he had found inside their home. Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times/Getty Los Angeles Police Department secures home where couple's murder took place on July 10. Los Angeles Police Department secures home where couple's murder took place on July 10. He was believed to have entered the home, which is heavily secured, with an eight-foot barrier and security cameras, through an unlocked door, police said. Despite a pair of 911 calls on July 10 including one allegedly made by Boodarian himself from inside the house on his cell phone officers were unable to access the property and left the scene without discovering the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search warrant affidavit filed by LAPD detectives from the San Fernando Valley homicide unit claims officers responded to two separate calls from the home on July 10. The first came in at 4:10 p.m., when a neighbor reported seeing an unidentified man attempting to break in. The first dispatcher audio came two minutes later on July 10, which was a routine burglary report. The audio recordings reveal there was a potential robbery as a neighbor reported "an unknown man with a tan complexion" had hopped over a fence at the couple's home. Moments later, a police airship known as Air 16 responded to the call and arrived at the scene, hovering over the property. At around 4:16 p.m., the flight officer radioed dispatch: Can you call back PR [person reporting], see if they still have eyes on? Two minutes later, at roughly 4:18 p.m., the officer followed up: I dont have any evidence of forced break-in. Were clear. Air 16 clear, the dispatcher confirmed seconds later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jennifer Forkish, LAPD communications director, told PEOPLE that the neighboring resident who reported the potential burglary was unable to be reached during attempts to follow up. About 40 minutes later, a second 911 call came from someone inside the home at 4:50 p.m., identifying themselves as a resident and reporting a break-in, according to the affidavit. Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times/Getty Victims Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca's home in Encino on July 15. Victims Robin Kaye and Thomas Deluca's home in Encino on July 15. The probable cause statement in the affidavit claims the 911 operator heard the caller say, Please dont shoot me, before officers were dispatched to the home. According to District Attorney Hochman, Boodarian identified himself with his real name to police in that phone call. Forkish confirmed to PEOPLE that the caller ultimately advised that a police response was not necessary. Follow-up attempts to reach the caller were unsuccessful, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All units arrived shortly before 5:00 p.m., according to dispatcher audio. At that time, Air 16 was called in again to survey the scene from above. However, officers reported that the helicopter did not observe anything suspicious. They cleared the area approximately seven minutes later, at around 5:07 p.m. According to LAPD officials, the homes front door was not visible from the outside during the initial response. The residence was heavily secured, with a locked perimeter and gated entry. "Responding units from West Valley Division and LAPD Air Support Division responded to both calls, which were ultimately linked based on the address. Officers arrived on scene and conducted a check of the surrounding area and attempted to visually check the residence through the security gate," said Forkish. "They attempted entry at two access points but both were locked and secured. The home was secured with surrounding walls. The Air Ship visually checked the location and advised there was no visible activity or evidence of a break-in. After taking additional steps to contact the persons reporting and residents at the location, officers cleared from the scene." It wasn't until four days later that officers discovered the bodies of Kaye and Deluca, after police responded to a welfare check at the couples home at 2:30 p.m. Officers were met by the person reporting a friend of the victim who said she had not heard from the residents for several days and was worried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She happened to have a key code to the vehicle gate, so she gave officers access to the residence," said LAPD Lt. Guy Golan. "When [the police] were in the yard of the residence, they observed some signs of trouble, they breached one of the glass windows, went inside the residence and found both of the victims deceased." Police have since filed a warrant to review doorbell surveillance footage from two neighboring homes, aiming to determine whether it captured the break-in or the killings of the two victims. TMZ/BACKGRID Raymond Boodarian was arrested on July 15, 2025. Raymond Boodarian was arrested on July 15, 2025. The following day, on July 15, the LAPD and FBI task force officers arrested Boodarian, 22, in connection with the killings. Investigators tell PEOPLE they are still working to determine whether the suspect had any prior connection to the couple or if he had been involved in previous calls for service at the residence. However, records show Boodarian lives roughly four miles away from the couple's home. The case still remains an active investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boodarian was charged two days later on July 17, with two counts of murder, as well as one count of residential burglary. The murder charges include the special circumstance allegations of multiple murders and murder during the commission of a burglary, as well as firearm allegations. He is being held without bail awaiting his next court date on Aug. 20. Addressing the crowd Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times, Hochman called the murders deeply personal. The government owes you one thing and thats safety, he said. Robin and Tom didnt experience safety that night. Safety failed them. Read the original article on People BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A person is suffering minor injuries after being stabbed Wednesday morning, according to Bakersfield police. Officers responded to 2501 White Lane after receiving reports of a stabbing that had occured. One person was suffering from minor injuries when police arrived. white lane stabbing A brief foot pursuit began, but officers managed to arrest the suspect. The condition of the victim is unknown at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. KANSAS CITY, Mo. A suspect has been charged in connection with a deadly double shooting that took the lives of two brothers Sunday afternoon, according to Kansas City police. The shooting happened at a convenience store near Truman Avenue and Brooklyn Street. The two victims have been identified as 32-year-old Taylor Garrett and 35-year-old Byron Garrett. KC Pet Project to transfer animal control duties to city of Kansas City Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It marked one of three homicides reported in Kansas City on Sunday alone. Community advocates, including Rosilyn Temple, founder of Mothers in Charge, say the violence follows a heartbreaking trend that resurfaces every summer. We definitely need to try and get in front of this violence, weve seen it so many years, Temple said. This year so far is now Kansas Citys second-deadliest in the past five years, with 92 homicides recorded so far. Only 2023 was deadlier, setting a grim record in the citys history of the deadliest year ever. Temple said warmer weather often brings a spike in violence and urges the community to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the weather change comes more homicides occur its a community problem we have to come together to address these violent attacks that were having on each other in the community nothing is going to change, Temple said. Download WDAF+ for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV Nearly 60% of homicide victims in 2025 have been under the age of 34, according to KCPD statistics. As for Sundays shooting, the Jackson County Prosecutors Office is expected to release more details on the charges 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. PARIS (Reuters) -A person suspected of being the administrator for the Russian language cybercriminal forum XSS.is was arrested in Ukraine this week, the French public prosecutor's office and the pan-European police body Europol said on Wednesday. Europol said the suspect - whose name has not been given - was thought to have earned more than 7 million euros ($8.20 million) via the forum. "The forum's administrator was not only a technical operator but is believed to have played a central role in enabling criminal activity," a Europol statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Acting as a trusted third party, he arbitrated disputes between criminals and guaranteed the security of transactions. He is also believed to have run thesecure.biz, a private messaging service tailored to the needs of the cybercriminal underground," it added. Europol said the cybercrime forum had more than 50,000 registered users and served as a key marketplace for stolen data, hacking tools and other illegal services. The suspect was arrested in Kyiv on Tuesday in a police operation involving Ukrainian authorities, according to French police and Europol. ($1 = 0.8536 euros) (Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Dominique Vidalon; editing by Mark Heinrich) A suspect got shot while attempting to rob a McDonalds in Ohio on Tuesday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The incident happened at around 8 p.m. in East Cleveland. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement East Cleveland Mayor Lateek Shabazz told CBS affiliate, WOIO TV in Cleveland, that a Good Samaritan shot the suspect. Medics transported the male suspect to the hospital with unknown injuries. The incident remains under investigation. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] EAST CLEVELAND, Ohio (WJW) The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner has identified a man killed at a local McDonalds. According to East Cleveland Mayor Lateek Shabazz, officers responded to the McDonalds on Euclid Avenue and Eddy Road Tuesday evening. Gunman lying in wait in ambush of Lorain police officers Multiple reports stated that a male suspect with a gun was holding up the fast food restaurant, city officials said. WJW photo A preliminary investigation later revealed that the suspect was trying to rob the McDonalds when he was fired upon by a good Samaritan, the mayors statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect was taken to University Hospitals for his injuries. Brecksville mom of 3 was stalked for years by man who installed home security: Terrifying According to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, he was identified as Ben Jones, 23, of Cleveland. The good Samaritan wasnt at the scene when officers arrived, city officials said. The case remains under investigation 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Atlanta police are searching for three women, who they said stole items from a popular candle store last month. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] On June 19, APD received a call about larceny at the Bath & Body Works on 18th Street. When officers arrived, they spoke with a worker who stated that multiple women had walked into the store and stolen $916 worth of 3-wick candle boxes. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities released surveillance video that shows the women walking out of the store with the candles. APD said the trio appeared to have left in a gray Hyundai with a New Jersey license plate. APD is working to identify the suspects. Anyone with information or who can identify them is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 404-577-8477. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] One of two men charged with torturing an Italian cryptocurrency holder inside a luxury New York City townhouse repeatedly messaged an assistant to keep eyes on the alleged victim, according to prosecutors at the Manhattan district attorney's office. John Woeltz, along with fellow suspect William Duplessie, were granted $1 million bail this week by Judge Gregory Carro as review of the case's evidence continues. The decision was made against over the objection of the DA's office. Prosecutors said on Thursday Woeltz allegedly instructed the assistant to monitor the alleged victim whenever he used his phone. Kava Gorna via AP - PHOTO: New York police officers arrest John Woeltz, Friday, May 23, 2025, in New York, who was charged with kidnapping, assaulting and holding a man against his will for several weeks in an upscale Manhattan town house. MORE: Suspects in New York City crypto torture case plead not guilty to kidnapping and assault Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the assistant expressed concern the victim might have left the townhouse through an open door a second assistant replied, "Don't worry I'm watching him," prosecutors said. Prosecutors disclosed the information as attorneys for Woeltz and William Duplessie argue they did not hold the Italian man against his will. A message from Duplessie said he and Woeltz had to keep doing drugs because they were making the alleged victim do drugs, prosecutors said. Other messages described the alleged victim as broken, sobbing, with "no more life in his eyes," according to the prosecutors. In addition, they said physical evidence recovered from the scene corroborates allegations Woeltz and Duplessie subjected the alleged victim to torture, including a loaded firearm, chainsaw and cattle prod. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hacksaws, buckets, tarps and goggles were also found, with prosecutors saying the defendants threatened to use to dispose of the alleged victim's body. They are also accused of pouring tequila on the alleged victim and lighting him on fire. Curtis Means/POOL/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: William Duplessie, who faces charges in connection with the alleged torture of Italian crypto millionaire Michael Valentino Teofrasto Carturan, attends his hearing at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York, May 30, 2025. MORE: What we know about the NYC crypto kidnapping and torture case Prosecutors have said Woeltz and Duplessie lured the alleged victim -- an Italian man who is not identified in the indictment -- to New York by allegedly threatening to have his family killed. Woeltz and Duplessie allegedly told the Italian man that they were associated with the government and if he didn't cooperate, he would be labeled a terrorist, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man told police he arrived in New York on May 6 and went to Woeltz's eight-bedroom SoHo townhouse, where he was allegedly tortured over his Bitcoin password, according to a complaint. After more than two weeks, police said the man escaped from the townhouse on May 23 and ran to a traffic enforcement officer for help. Woeltz and Duplessie were subsequently arrested. Before being granted bail on Wednesay, Woeltz and Duplessie have remained in custody since their arrest in May. They both pleaded not guilty to a dozen charges, including kidnapping, assault and coercion, during their arraignment last month. Curtis Means/Pool - PHOTO: John Woeltz is arraigned in Manhattan Supreme Court, June 11 2025, in News York. Both men must surrender passports, submit to electronic monitoring and remain on home confinement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the arraignment, the defense pushed back against the allegations, saying there is video of the alleged victim "having the time of his life" and engaging in activity at odds with having been tortured. A prosecutor, Sarah Kahn, said in response that "victims of abuse are not always going to act in a way that we expect people to do." Kahn also said prosecutors have had conversations with other, unnamed law enforcement agencies that indicated Woeltz and Duplessie have tortured people before. Prosecutors at Wednesday's hearing brought up a law enforcement search of a property in Kentucky linked to Woeltz, who is known as the "crypto king of Kentucky," that they said turned up writings indicating that Woeltz had mused about holding people to steal their cryptocurrency. Duplessie was previously investigated in Switzerland for domestic violence and Woeltz has previously been accused of holding a different individual in Kentucky for crypto ransom. CLAY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) On July 3, at 5:41 a.m., State Police responded to an address on Marlin Drive in the Town of Clay for a medical assist. Once police arrived, they found a deceased person, who was later identified as 58-year-old Christa M. Baxter of Clay. The circumstances behind Baxters death are under investigation by the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. This is an isolated event, and there is no danger to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who may have information is encouraged to contact the New York State Police at 315-366-6000 and reference case #NY2500587636. More details will be released as the investigation progresses. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. An outbreak of brutal, sectarian violence in Syria has intensified debate in Congress over whether to follow President Trumps directive to lift all sanctions on the country. While Trump has put his support behind Syrias interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who with his allies was responsible for overthrowing Syrian dictator Bashar Assad in December, some Republicans and Democrats are skeptical that al-Sharaa has completely shed his terrorist past. The violence in Sweida, located in southern Syria which included the reported killing of an American citizen cast a harsh light on the enormous challenges facing the new Syrian leaders in exercising control over warring militias and minority groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, theres also bipartisan support for advancing Trumps directive, in particular repealing the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019 landmark legislation that imposed a harsh sanctions regime meant to isolate Assad and quicken his downfall. There are a number of different ideas on where and how far to go, and thats a debate that were having right now, Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told The Hill on Tuesday. Mast held back from taking a position on repealing or taking a more calibrated approach to sanctions relief. That divide was on display Tuesday at a meeting of the House Financial Services Committee. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) introduced legislation advanced by the House Financial Services Committee on Tuesday to amend the sanctions legislation to allow the administration to waive sanctions beyond the six-month period currently allowed, and to give the president more flexibility to lift sanctions when certain conditions are met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawlers bill was backed by Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), who offered an amendment calling for the government to demonstrate its commitment to protecting minorities. We cannot expect perfection, we are not looking for Jeffersonian democracy in Syria, but we are also looking for a government to do all it can to prevent seven Druze, including one U.S. citizen, from being executed, he said, referring to the violence last week. Sherman told The Hill he was not in favor of repealing the act completely. Israel intervened in Syria last week, launching strikes on the capital Damascus and the southern Druze-majority city of Sweida last week, in what it said was in defense of the Druze community. The move frustrated and reportedly surprised the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. last week helped put in place a ceasefire between the Druze, Bedouin, Israel and Syrian government forces after days of fighting resulted in the death of approximately 300 people. Nearly 100,000 people are displaced because of the fighting. On Tuesday, the State Department confirmed that Hosam Saraya, a Syrian American citizen of Druze descent, was murdered alongside dozens of other men held captive by local forces in Tishreen Square, located in the center of Sweida. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that despite the recent violence, she is still supportive of legislation she introduced in June to repeal the sanctions legislation. Part of what weve got to do is show Syrians that there is an opportunity for a better life, she said, adding she wants Israel to stop bombing the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That would go a long way towards providing peaceful conditions under which people can negotiate, she said. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), a member of the House Foreign Affairs subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, has introduced legislation in the House for a full repeal. To give Syria a chance, the best way to do that is we repeal, he told The Hill. Wilson was backed by Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), ranking member of the Financial Services panel, who introduced an amendment to Lawlers legislation directing the legislations full repeal. We in the African American community know, when we are trying to do business, we get just enough resources to fail, and thats what youre doing here, Waters remarked to Lawler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be great expectations of the government they cannot fulfill with your little bitty partial removal of sanctions, she continued. Its got to be full, its got to be meaningful, its got to be done in a way that ensures. Trumps special envoy for Syria and Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack, has also called for a full repeal. The White House did not respond to a request for comment on the state of the debate. Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he is comfortable keeping the six-month waiver in place and is cautious in dealing with the al-Sharaa government. Whether its a complete repeal or whether or not we move into it slowly, thats up to the president, Risch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to give Syria the opportunity, this is a real opportunity for us, I want to make that happen. Having said that, I also want to be cautious as we move forward, he added. I think theyve got enough in place with the waivers to do what they need to do, Risch continued, responding to arguments that investors and businesses are discouraged from working in Syria over uncertainty about whether the country will remain free from financial penalty. Trump issued an executive order last month directing the State Department to review the specially designated terrorist label on al-Sharaa and the group he led to oust Assad, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). While the Biden administration lifted a $10 million bounty on al-Sharaa, its not clear if his terrorist designation has been fully lifted. Secretary of State Marco Rubio removed HTSs terrorist designation earlier this month. Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.), chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, is another advocate for limited sanctions relief and backed Lawlers bill on Tuesday. That position has put him at odds with a community he has worked closely with for years, in particular on the original passage of the Caesar Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Syrian Emergency Task Force (SETF) is an Arkansas-based humanitarian organization that was responsible for bringing before Congress the whistleblower, code-named Caesar, testifying to Assads torture and murder of Syrian citizens, and that served as a basis for the Caesar Act. On Tuesday, the SETF put out a statement rejecting Lawlers legislation. President Trumps administration has a clear policy on Syria to lift sanctions and give Syria a chance, this bill does the opposite, the SETF said in a statement. It is the moral obligation of Congress to fully repeal Caesar, which was about punishing Assad and not the Syrian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephen Rapp, a member of the board of trustees for SETF who served as ambassador-at-large for global criminal justice during the Obama administration, said the Caesar Act served its purpose in ushering in the fall of Assad, and that repealing the law would not harm the presidents ability to wield sanctions on the al-Sharaa government if necessary. I dont think we need the Caesar sanctions, and its important to send a symbolic message to Syria that youve overthrown a dictatorship and did something that most of us never dreamed as possible, he said. And now we want to, certainly work with you to achieve justice, and certainly enforce human rights. And we do that by engagement, by doing what the administration has done so far, suspending the Caesar sanctions and lifting these others. Michael Rubin, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank in Washington, argues that calibrating sanctions relief ensures crucial leverage in deterring against violence toward civilians and minority groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he warned against a double standard when it comes to relations with al-Sharaas government. The atrocities under Assad were so grave, that it is crucial to keep the legal mechanism in place, especially as the change in the Syrian regime might allow for some investigation breakthroughs, he said. Assads atrocities include leading the regime charged with killing more than 200,000 civilians, disappearing more than 96,000 people, torturing to death more than 15,000 people, and carrying out grievous attacks against civilians using chemical weapons, cluster munitions, and incendiary bombs. But Rubin also pointed out that al-Sharaas terrorist background with ties to al Qaeda and the Islamic State group should not be swept under the rug. It is equally important, however, to recognize that al-Sharaa and his cohort have engaged and increasingly engage in equally atrocious human rights violations. If the United States selectively prosecutes and sanctions some violators but not others for the same crimes, then we delegitimize the entire human rights mechanism. Updated at 10:11 a.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Syrian defense ministry personnel and other officials frequently visit Turkey. Some of the members of Syrias new security forces were previously commanders in Turkish-backed Syrian proxy groups. Reports on July 23 claimed that Syria has asked Turkey to train its armed forces. Ostensibly, Damascus wants support against terrorist groups such as ISIS. This will be welcomed by the US envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, who has blamed extremists for the recent problems there. However, Damascus has many hurdles ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reports of possible Turkish involvement in providing training support are a surprise, considering the fact that Turkey has been supportive of Syrias new government. In addition, Syrian Defense Ministry personnel and other officials frequently visit Turkey. Some of the members of Syrias new security forces were previously commanders in Turkish-backed Syrian proxy groups. Additionally, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham controlled Idlib, a city close to the Turkish border, before coming to power in Damascus. Fighters of the ruling Syrian body patrol the streets in Homs, Syria, December 26, 2024 (credit: REUTERS/KHALIL ASHAWI) On Tuesday, Syrian Defense Ministry officials arrived in Turkey to take part in the IDEF 2025 defense exhibition. It is unclear whether this is connected to the reports; however, it shows the increasing interest Syria has in Turkish defense products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Syrian state media, A delegation representing the Defense Ministry participated in the IDEF 2025 defense industry exhibition, being held in Turkey, with the participation of 120 countries and more than 400 defense industry companies from 44 countries. Historically, the overall Turkish-Syrian engagement throughout the civil war points to a natural cooperation between Ankara and Damascus. This is in contrast to how things might have been under Bashar al-Assads regime, when Damascus and Ankara did not always have warm ties. It is worth recalling some of the history here. Syria was once part of the Ottoman Empire. When the empire collapsed, it was unclear if Syrias northern border would include the province of Alexandretta. This area is also called Iskenderun or Hatay. It is now a province of the Republic of Turkey. However, from 1920 to 1938, it was part of the French mandate of Syria. Later, Syria and Turkey did not always agree on Kurdish issues. Syria hosted Abdullah Ocalan, the leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party. Ocalan, who Ankara saw as a wanted terrorist, resided in Syria from 1978 until 1998. This meant that Ankara saw Syria as a deeply problematic country under Assads rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That said, when the Syrian civil war broke out, Turkey hedged its bets. It ostensibly backed the Syrian rebels but also tried to co-opt them into what was called the Syrian National Army (SNA). The SNA was a Turkish-backed proxy group that Ankara used against Kurdish forces. Turkey invaded parts of northern Syria between 2016 and 2019. However, Ankara was not willing to fight against the Syrian regime. Instead, it joined the Astana peace process alongside Russia and Iran, allowing Ankara to play a double game. When the HTS, which Syrias current president led, overthrew the Assad regime in December 2024, it caught Turkey by surprise. Turkey reacted quickly to try to shore up its influence in Damascus. Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new president, sought to balance Ankaras interest with those of Saudi Arabia and other countries. Turkey's professional army It is therefore natural that Turkey would train Syrias security forces. Turkey is a member of NATO, and it has a professional army. Very few other countries in the region would be able to provide Syria with the same level of assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, the Gulf states would likely be unable to provide the same levels of training. Nevertheless, the Gulf might want to be involved because that would bring Syria into US Central Command training operations. As such, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are candidates when it comes to assisting Syria. Turkey is also the natural choice because it is already supplying Syria with light armored vehicles and other assistance. It has a land border with Syria. For Turkey, the training is easy because of proximity. Barrack is also the ambassador to Turkey, so this knits together the US, Turkey, and Syria as well. Syria is creating new army divisions, replacing the ones of the old regime. It has to staff all these units. It is training thousands of men. Damascus is also trying to integrate with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in eastern Syria. Further, it has integrated a small force that the US trained at Tanf in southern Syria into its 70th Division. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, there is a long road ahead. The clashes in Sweida demonstrate that the security forces are often out of control and require professional training. The appointment of some SNA commanders who were known for committing abuses against civilians to positions in the new army is a significant problem for Damascus. Moreover, a large number of HTS commanders have also moved into the new military, and some are also known for their extreme beliefs and sectarianism. Israel has said that southern Syria must be demilitarized. Any training that Turkey provides will thus be watched closely by Israel. Any Turkish involvement in Syria will increase Damascus ties to Ankara. That will mean that this may also make it more difficult for Israel to continue airstrikes, as Turkey will oppose these strikes. Ankara has already condemned Israel numerous times. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) We have an update on a dog involved in a rollover crash last week in Sioux Falls. You may remember the Sioux Falls Animal Control truck that was t-boned by an alleged drunk driver. National ad on privatized USPS concerns airs in SD The animal control officer wasnt hurt and neither was the French bulldog that was being transported to the Humane Society. Shes now up for adoption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This accident involving a Sioux Falls Animal Control truck could have been so much worse. I have been with Animal Control for 10 years, I have never seen an accident quite that bad, Patty Beckman of Sioux Falls Animal Control said. Patty Beckman with Sioux Falls Animal Control was one of many who responded to the scene. Beckman first made sure the officer was okay, then she wanted to see if there was an animal being transported. To my surprise, they rolled the animal control truck back over on all four tires and we opened the kennel, the dog was sitting there happy-go-lucky, wagging her tail and ready to get out of that kennel, Beckman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They brought the French Bulldog to the Humane Society. Since nobody has claimed her, they got her up to date on shots, chipped her, had her spayed and fittingly named her T-Bone. T-Bone, since the day I took her out of the kennel and brought her to the Humane Society until now, she is friendly, she likes to greet everybody and just very well-mannered dog, Beckman said. T-Bone is one of about 400 animals out at the Humane Society right now, they are at capacity and they are in desperate need of adopters. About 20% of our stray animals actually get claimed by their owners, the other 80% stay here and get put up for adoption, so, T-Bone is now one of those 80%, no one ever claimed her, so now shes going to be available, Sioux Falls Area Humane Societys Dana Konzem said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So if you adopt T-Bone, you both will be considered lucky dogs. Small dogs, particularly French bulldogs, are always very popular to adopters, so the fact that she has another little story to go along with her is going to make her very desirable to people, Konzem said. T-Bone wont be ready to be adopted for a couple more days. Police say the car was going over 80 miles an hour when it hit the animal control truck, causing it to roll over. 35-year-old Nathalia Baron is still behind bars facing a list of charges, including vehicular battery. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Donald Trump has promised to super-charge the U.S. electricity network to win the global race for artificial intelligence but his administration is rejecting efforts to get that power from solar or wind. The latest example came Wednesday, when the Energy Department said it terminated a pending $4.9 billion loan guarantee for the Grain Belt Express project, an 800-mile transmission line that would carry mostly wind-generated power from the Plains to some of the most strained parts of the nations power grid. The announcement came on the same day that the administration outlined its plans to dominate the AI sector, including by expanding the grid, which it calledthe lifeblood of the modern economy and a cornerstone of national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though thoroughly in line with Trumps explicit preference for fossil fuels and nuclear power, the cancellation of the Biden-era loan guarantee left some power sector experts, business leaders and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle baffled. Killing the loan guarantee, they said, would directly contradict Trumps goals of shoring up the power grid, cutting electricity bills and delivering power to new AI data centers. You cant have it both ways, said Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina. If you cant transmit electrons reliably and efficiently, then youre not going to have energy-intensive industries relying on it. The White House declined to comment on the cancellation. In a statement, an Energy Department spokesperson said the department will continue to use all tools at its disposal, including the Loan Programs Office to support projects that advance reliable, affordable, and secure energy sources, strengthen the grid and lower costs for the American people. Conservative Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley has long sought to block the Grain Belt Express project and said recently that Trump assured him the administration would yank the loan guarantee. Farmers, particularly in Missouri and Illinois, have resisted the projects use of eminent domain to obtain the needed land and argued they wouldnt see the benefits of the line in their states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview Wednesday, Hawley said he was not really concerned the project would undermine the administrations AI effort because Missouri was gonna get just about nothing from the project. Theyve taken farmers to court in order to seize their land, and all of that for wind power, which is totally unreliable, said Hawley, who laid out his argument to Trump and Wright during a White House meeting earlier this month. Trump, however, has touted the use of eminent domain to build projects in his real estate portfolio and, during his first term, wielded that power to build a wall along the U.S. southern border and backed its use for pipelines like the now-defunct Keystone XL pipeline project. Without any eminent domain you wouldnt have any highways, you wouldnt have any schools, you wouldnt have any roadways, he said in 2019. If we cant make a deal, we take the land and we pay them through a court process otherwise you could never build anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Energy Department said it canceled the Grain Belt Express loan guarantee because it was not critical for the federal government to have a role in supporting the project, and that the conditions necessary to issue the guarantee were unlikely to be met. To ensure more responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, DOE has terminated its conditional commitment, the department said. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who openeda civil investigation into the project earlier this month, called the decision a win in a major battle in the war for Missouri private property rights and farmers.At our urging, the DOE saw this boondoggle for what it was, pulled the plug on nearly $5 billion in taxpayer-funds, and Missouri families are better off for it, Bailey said in a statement. But the projects backers point out that the U.S. is badly in need of new transmission, especially the type that connects regional grids. Grain Belt Express is designed to connect four of those grids. It already received permits from the four states that it would cross and is set to begin construction next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The line would run from western Kansas, where excess wind power is clogging the grid, to Missouri, Illinois and Indiana, where electricity demand is soaring. When the Plains grid is under strain from extreme weather, the line could reverse direction and carry power the other way. Rep. Sean Casten (D-Ill.), a former clean energy developer, said killing the project would be the biggest own-goal by an administration that says theyre committed to building out transmission. If the purpose of U.S. energy policy is to benefit consumers, thats a no-brainer, right? he said. Chicago-based Invenergy, which is developing Grain Belt Express, has tried to appeal to Trump by painting the project as an opportunity for him to secure a major win where the Biden administration could not completing a project that would advance the key pillars of his energy agenda. Earlier this year, the White House touted the project among its wins for American investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while the line has largely been marketed as a boon for wind power, Invenergy has pivoted and is now looking to connect a new gas plant and possibly existing coal generation to the line. In a statement Wednesday, a project spokesperson signaled the company would continue to pursue the project albeit without the government financing. While we are disappointed about the LPO loan guarantee, a privately financed Grain Belt Express transmission superhighway will advance President Trumps agenda of American energy and technology dominance while delivering billions of dollars in energy cost savings, strengthening grid reliability and resiliency, and creating thousands of American jobs, the spokesperson said. The Grain Belt Express would be able to carry more than 5 gigawatts of power enough to power 50 of Trumps new data centers, Invenergy has said. It projects that U.S. consumers in 29 states would save a combined $52 billion on their energy bills if it is built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Energy Secretary Chris Wright has also backed the need for new electricity transmission, even as he has taken aim at renewable energy. In a hearing last month before House lawmakers, Wright testified that theres no doubt that our country and our grid would benefit from more transmission, adding that the historical record of building transmission lines in the U.S. is long and incredibly hard. The AI Action Plan released by the White House on Wednesday calls for expedited permitting to speed the development of new infrastructure, while making federal lands available for data center and power generation infrastructure construction. It also recommends implementing changes to enhance the efficiency of the existing transmission system. At a Senate hearing on rising power demand on Wednesday, Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) noted that increasing transmission has been a centerpiece of Washington discussions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, this morning, the Department of Energy terminated a loan program for a major interregional transmission system in the Midwest. So here we are talking about how important transmission is I just think the timing is somewhat ironic, King said. The Energy Department and the North American Electric Reliability Corp., the nations grid reliability watchdog, have warned that the U.S. needs thousands of miles more transmission lines to keep pace with demand. But permitting and financing delays have stymied construction last year, the U.S. built just 322 miles of high-voltage lines, according to a report this week from power grid consultancy Grid Strategies and advocacy group Americans for a Clean Energy Grid. Two of the regional grids connected to the Grain Belt Express are facing particularly dire futures as demand skyrockets without enough new generation to keep up. One of them is the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, whose territory stretches from the upper Midwest to Louisiana, and the other is PJM Interconnection, which includes 13 states from Illinois to the East Coast. These trends have driven up prices and choked off new industrial development, particularly of power-hungry data centers and manufacturing facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ray McCarty, president and CEO of Associated Industries of Missouri, a trade group representing many of the states largest businesses, said some of his members are already losing deals to build data centers because they cannot guarantee the electricity needed to power them something Grain Belt Express would help to address. This is something thats available in the very near term something we can do right away to help move toward that end goal of making America a leader in data centers and artificial intelligence, he said. We do think that it does align perfectly with making America first. Rep. Erin Houchin, an Indiana Republican, also backed the project in a statement to POLITICO on Wednesday, noting that China is rapidly building out the transmission infrastructure critical to winning the AI race. Expanding and modernizing our transmission infrastructure is essential to advancing President Trumps vision for American energy dominance, driving economic growth, and reducing energy costs in states like Indiana, Houchin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even without the demand from potential data center growth, experts and industry officials say MISO and PJM need more capacity to rein in rising energy prices and reduce the risk of blackouts. Steve Stodden, president and CEO of the Missouri Public Utility Alliance, which represents municipal utilities across the state, said many of his members are scrambling to deal with rising wholesale power prices. To avoid passing on those increases to customers, the cities have been looking to the Grain Belt Express to bring in cheaper power from Kansas. The group negotiated prices with Invenergy several years ago that are very lucrative compared with the rates now, Stodden said. If the project isnt built, the cities will likely need to shell out for new gas-fired power plants, whose construction prices have surged because of tariffs and supply chain constraints. Any megawatts you don't have to build right now are good megawatts not to build because everything is just so expensive right now, Stodden said. Some Republicans argue, however, that Grain Belt Express was not the right project to expand the transmission network. We need to have good transmission, reliable, to provide electricity needs across the country, said Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas). But he said Invenergys land grab for the project was inappropriate, and he urged broader changes to permitting rules to speed the development of the high-voltage lines. The move comes as the administration has taken other steps to stunt wind and solar development, including its recent executive order designed to limit the ability of those projects to access tax incentives under the GOP megalaw and an Interior Department directive adding obstacles to wind and solar development. The Biden administration announced its intent to offer the loan guarantee to Grain Belt Express in the final months of the former presidents term. Wright has repeatedly criticized the Biden administrations actions on billions of dollars of loans in its waning days but has said the loan office can play a vital role in supporting certain projects such as nuclear and critical minerals. DOE said Wednesday that it is conducting a review of the loan offices portfolio, including the closed loans and conditional commitments made between Election Day 2024 and Trumps inauguration to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used to advance the best interest of the American people. Josh Siegel and Isa Dominguez contributed to this report. Jul. 23When Courtney and Dantrion Dodd decided to bet on themselves, they had no idea the odds would pay off. The Dodds own the T&D BBQ food truck in Dixon. Together, they serve homemade pulled pork, ribs and other barbecue cuisine. The truck's name not only means "tasty and delicious," but also incorporates the initials of Dantrion's nickname, Tron Dodd. "It just came to him one night," Courtney recalled. "Everyone liked it. Tasty and delicious by Tron Dodd. It just stuck." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Dantrion studied culinary arts at Robert Morris University in Chicago, his roots in the kitchen stem from childhood. "I've been cooking my whole life," Dantrion said. "I learned to cook from my aunties and the women in my family." Dantrion worked several factory jobs after returning home from college. He tried selling homemade ribs out of his house with some success, but did not consider expanding further until a series of events left him with nothing to lose as he bet on his hopes and dreams. "We were in the hospital with our son, who had complications since he was born, when I ran out of points at my job running back and forth," Dantrion said. "They ended up letting me go. So, we decided to bet on ourselves. Right after we came back from Vegas, my wife told me, 'Go ahead and bet on yourself.' And that's what I did." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As orders for Dantrion's food plates grew beyond what the couple could legally serve from home, the couple decided to purchase a food truck in 2023. Equipped with a mobile kitchen, a hungry customer base, a dream and a meat smoker gifted to them at their wedding, the Dodds hit the road with their barbecue and have not looked back since. "What I love about cooking is that you can take anything and make it your own," Dantrion said. "I like when I serve people, and getting to see people smile, especially when they tell me how good my food is. That makes me feel really good because I'm making people happy with something that I'm doing. I just want to thank everyone for their support. I do what I can, and I let God do the rest. Because without him, I wouldn't be doing this." The T&D BBQ food truck can be found throughout the Sauk Valley every weekend. The Dodds post the truck's hours and locations on its Facebook page. TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan's government said on Wednesday that a trade delegation led by the vice premier was in Washington, D.C., for a new round of in-person negotiations with U.S. officials this week. U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed imposing tariffs of as much as 32% on Taiwan. No new tariffs have yet been announced for the democratically-governed island, although the 90-day pause on worldwide tariffs Trump proposed in April has already expired. The delegation, led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun, seeks to safeguard Taiwans industrial interests, public health, and food security, according to a cabinet statement. The talks aim to promote balanced trade, and improve the overall economic and trade framework between the two sides, it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The team will continue working under the principles of protecting Taiwans industries and public welfare, the statement said. We hope to optimise the trade system and lay the groundwork for a stronger partnership in the future. The Taiwan talks come as trade negotiations in the region accelerate. On Wednesday, the United States and Japan announced a trade agreement that includes a 15% U.S. import tariff on all Japanese goods, lower than the 25% Washington had proposed previously. The Japan deal is seen as one of the most significant among several agreements reached ahead of the August 1 tariff deadline the White House set after the original 90-day deadline expired with only a few successfully negotiated agreements. Taiwan has been seeking to strengthen its trade ties with major partners, particularly the U.S., Taiwan's second-largest trading partner after China, amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The outcome of the negotiations could play a key role in shaping the islands future trade strategy and its position in the global supply chain, and is crucial to Taiwan's export-driven economy. (Reporting by Faith Hung and Jeanny Kao; Editing by Kate Mayberry) (Reuters) -An emerging U.S.-Japanese trade deal could unlock major investment, avert a potential shock to the global economy and may deliver political wins for both U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, though many specifics of the agreement remain unclear. Here's a closer look at the early takeaways: * The deal may stabilize the global trade outlook by imposing a 15% tariff on Japanese goods down from a threatened 25% while Japan commits to investing $550 billion in the U.S. economy, a boost to U.S. jobs. It almost certainly averts a worst-case scenario for the Japanese economy, say analysts. Moreover, if it signals that the balance of U.S. tariff rates are likely to settle in that range, Jefferies Chief Economist and Strategist for Europe Mohit Kumar said: "the world can live with 15% or so tariffs." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Trump potentially stands to gain some political capital ahead of November 2026 midterm elections by reinforcing his America First trade stance and potentially bolstering his influence with industrial and agricultural constituencies while avoiding the market instability that loomed under earlier tariff threats. Still, not every U.S. constituency was happy with the announcement. The decision has angered the Detroit Three automakers, who still face a 25% levy on significant segments of their non-U.S. produced vehicles. * For Ishiba, at least for now, the deal is a diplomatic and economic win amid domestic political turbulence. Just days earlier, Japans ruling coalition lost its majority in upper house elections. * Analysts say the deal could give impetus for deals that other economies are negotiating with Washington, including the EU and China, both facing August tariff deadlines. * Global financial markets are rallying led by automakers. Stocks of major Japanese firms surged following the announcement, and capital inflows are expected to continue as investors seek exposure to Japans innovation-led growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Despite the investment commitments, analysts are divided over whether the deal will significantly reduce the U.S. trade deficit with Japan in the short term. Critics argue that without stronger enforcement mechanisms or structural reforms, the imbalance could persist. Supporters counter that the deal will help reduce the trade deficit by boosting American exports. * A 15% tariff, though lower than the threatened 25%, still represents a significantly higher import tax for consumer goods, especially for cars and electronics, which are heavily imported to the U.S. from Japan. Yale Budget Lab last week estimated the overall average U.S. tariff rate under Trump's policy shifts has climbed to around 20% from between 2% and 3% prior to his return to the White House in January. * American exporters could gain broader access to Japans markets, especially in autos and agriculture sectors vital to U.S. economic growth, some analysts who favor the deal told Reuters. (Editing by Daniel Burns and Howard Goller) Credit - Photo-Illustration by TIME (Source Images: Liudmila ChernetskaGetty Images, LanaSweet/Getty Images) Federal health officials are scrutinizing a mineraladded to some makeup, medications, and foodsthat many people have never thought twice about: talc. In a recent viewpoint article called Priorities for a New FDA, published in the medical journal JAMA, Dr. Martin Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Dr. Vinay Prasad, the FDAs Chief Medical and Scientific Officer, wrote that the FDA conducted an expert panel on talc in May. They also noted that some companies have removed talc from baby powder because its a carcinogen. Johnson & Johnson, for example, stopped using talc in 2023 following more than 60,000 legal claims from ovarian cancer patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The JAMA article added that talc remains common, since people still ingest it regularly as an ingredient in various medications and foods. Despite the lawsuits, though, research hasnt confirmed whether talc causes cancer, especially when consumed through food. Meanwhile, companies continue to use talc in powders and cosmetics. Heres how people get exposed to talc, the potential health risks, and what to do about them. Talc and asbestos A naturally occurring mineral, talc consists of several elements like magnesium and silicon. When ground into fine particles, talc becomes talcum powder, which works to absorb moisture and soothe the skin. People have used cosmetics and powders with talc for more than a century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before talc is mined by companies from deep within the earth, it mixes with another mineral, asbestos. This often results in talcs contamination with asbestos, which is proven to cause cancer. Talc, when laced with asbestos, is a carcinogen, especially when its inhaled. Less clear is the cancer-causing potential of talc when its not contaminated. In theory, talc on its own could drive cancer because its particles create inflammation when inhaled or migrating into the body after talc is applied to skin, according to Joellen Schildkraut, professor of epidemiology at Emory University. Inflammation can promote cancer, Schildkraut says. Many studies have shown an association. Some research shows that asbestos-free talc leads to tumors in animals, but animals reveal little about ovarian cancer in humans, Schildkraut says. Read More: The Race to Explain Why More Young Adults Are Getting Cancer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless, its impossible for consumers to learn if products with talc are contaminated. Since the 1970s, companies have tested talc voluntarily, but the methods arent sensitive enough to detect asbestos in their productsand the FDA doesnt require proof that theyre asbestos-free. This means a lot of contaminated talc likely went through without anybody detecting the asbestos, Schildkraut says. Using better tests, researchers have spot-checked whether cosmetics are asbestos-laced. From 1948 to 2017, two-thirds of these tests (conducted as part of litigation) came up positive for asbestos, typically in trace amounts. In 2020, the nonprofit Environmental Working Group found asbestos contaminated 15% of makeup samples with talc. In 2023, the FDA detected no asbestos in 50 talc-containing cosmetics. (The agency didnt reply to TIMEs request for comment.) However, conclusions can't be drawn about the entire market from these checks because they involved small sample sizes, says Kaley Beins, a senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group. Later this year, the FDA is expected to finalize a new rule aimed at improving companies testing methods. Ovarian cancer risk Some data show links between cancer of the ovaries and a specific type of talc exposure: the use of baby powder in intimate areas for personal hygiene. But the findings have been mixed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a June letter to Makary, several talc researcherssome with ties to companies that make products with talccriticized the recent FDA roundtable on talcs health impacts. The roundtable discussions, the authors wrote, were skewed because they included several paid plaintiff-side experts in talc-related litigation without any defense-side experts. The letter says that studies involving several different groups of women have found only very weak associations with ovarian cancer. Schildkrautan expert participant in the May roundtable without any ties to the lawsuitsnotes that some of these studies involved relatively few women diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Its possible there simply wasnt enough data to yield stronger evidence. However, in 2020, scientists pooled together data from groups studied previously and still found no significant link. Read More: Scientists Are Finding Out Just How Toxic Your Stuff Is Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An important factor is that people may not be good at reporting their personal talc use, says Katie OBrien, a staff scientist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and lead author of the 2020 research. In another study last year, she tried to correct for reporting errors while reanalyzing data from over 50,000 women and found that frequent users of talcum powder did have higher risk of ovarian cancer. This type of research doesnt determine causation, says Schildkraut, who emphasized the same point during the public roundtable. But we do see a consistent relationship. The self-report issue noted by OBrien could extend to powder use for babies. People may not know whether baby powder was used on them, OBrien explains. Meanwhile, some laboratory research shows that human ovarian cancer cells, when exposed to talc, have more inflammation and cellular growth, mechanisms that can fuel cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read More: Inflammation May Be the Culprit Behind Our Deadliest Diseases But Jennifer Permuth, an epidemiologist at the Moffitt Cancer Center who has served as an expert witness for J&J and signed the letter to Makary, questions how talc would migrate from where its applied to cause cancer in the ovarieswithout causing cancer in other organs along the way, such as the cervix. We would expect cancer to also develop in those other organs, but studies find only weak links to these cancers, says Permuth. In a 2024 review, the World Health Organization found that, overall, evidence doesnt prove talc causes cancer, but its probably carcinogenic. The review focused on ovarian cancer because thats where the most evidence was compared to other cancers, says Schildkraut, who served on the review committee. Meanwhile, the American Cancer Society states that, if theres an increased cancer risk, its likely to be very small. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The E.U. has designated talc as a carcinogen, and it's expected to ban talc from cosmetics in 2027. Other potential health issues Theres less research on other health issues related to talc. Some studies suggest that when miners repeatedly inhale talc, even if its asbestos-free, their risk of lung cancer increasesbut evidence on inhaling baby powder is more limited. In addition, a deadly cancer called mesothelioma is closely linked to asbestos exposure, though links to talc are less clear (partly because mesothelioma is extremely rare). Read More: What to Expect at a Mammogram Karen Selby, a patient advocate for the Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.coma team of advocates, doctors, and attorneys supporting people with mesotheliomaworks with patients who developed the disease decades after early-life exposure to cosmetics, she says. Every Christmas as a kid, Selby got a new box of cosmetic powder to play with. Shed cover herself and act like Casper the Friendly Ghost. She doesnt have mesothelioma, but recalling the haze of talc dust, she sometimes thinks, Holy cow, what was I doing to myself? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These makeup kits often have cheaper ingredients like asbestos-contaminated talc, despite that children are a susceptible group in environmental health, says Beins, the Environmental Working Group scientist. I would try to keep talc away from them. Safety precautions As researchers continue to study talc, Beins recommends using products with talc substitutes like cornstarch. (Thats what J&J now uses instead of talc.) We can acknowledge the uncertainty and use safer alternatives, Beins says. The Environmental Working Group has a database called Skin Deep that tracks which cosmetics contain ingredients like talc. Currently, the database lists about 150,000 products, and 8,000 have talc, Beins estimates. I wouldnt use talc personally, Schildkraut says. Its not worth the risk because you dont need much exposure to asbestos to develop cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read More: 6 Things to Eat to Reduce Your Cancer Risk If possible, try passing on baby powders in general. Even if they lack talc, there may be other chemicals of concern, such as ones added for fragrance or texture, OBrien notes. If youve been exposed to talc for decadeswhether through personal product use or occupations that often involve talc, like those in hair careshare this information with your doctors. They may recommend screening for ovarian cancer and other conditions, OBrien says. What about food and medicine? Talc is commonly added to several foods like chewing gum and candy to keep them from sticking to wrappers and caking together. However, relatively few foods have talc. Its there and present sometimes, but its not in a ton of food, Beins says. To find which foods contain talc, you can search EWGs Food Scores, which tracks ingredients. Out of 80,000 products in the database, only 39 are currently listed to contain talc. In addition, the Environmental Working Groups Verified program certifies brands that meet its strictest health standards. To be certified, brands must disclose their ingredients, provide testing data, and avoid ingredients of concern. Products with talc cant be certified. Read More: Why Food Chemicals Are a ProblemAnd How to Reduce Your Exposure Talc is also added to some pill coatings because it helps pills travel smoothly through manufacturing equipment during production. But very little is known about cancer risk from talc in either food or pills. Theres some thought that gastrointestinal issues might happen due to food exposure, because its pro-inflammatory, Beins says. However, this effect is mostly theoretical at this point. For the sake of public health, we shouldnt raise false alarms and make people scared of their food and medications, says Permuth, who researches gastrointestinal cancer. Frequent users of talc-based personal care products or cosmetics are at the highest risk, OBrien says, adding that theres no medical reason for using these products. Whereas other established environmental risks like air pollution may be hard to avoid, OBrien notes that for the most part, the use of talc products is something that individuals can control. Correction, July 24 The original version of this story misstated the name of a government agency where Katie O'Brien works. It is the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, not the National Institute of Environmental Health Studies. Contact us at letters@time.com. Tampa Bays regional water utility was awarded $21 million after suing manufacturers of pollutants known as forever chemicals. Tampa Bay Water, which supplies drinking water to 2.6 million people in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties, joined more than 400 other water providers across the country who alleged flame retardants created by chemical companies including 3M and DuPont have polluted drinking water sources. A growing body of research has shown per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, to be likely carcinogens. Dubbed forever chemicals because they do not break down in the environment or body, the pollutants have been used in products like non-stick pans, rain jackets and cleaning supplies since the 1950s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked to some cancers as well as damage to the liver and immune systems. Anticipating federal changes to forever chemicals levels in drinking water, Tampa Bay Water signed onto the lawsuit in 2020. Four years later, the Environmental Protection Agency under President Joe Biden announced it would set limits on six of the chemicals, effective in 2029. (In June, the Trump administration rolled back limits on four of those six chemicals and pushed the deadline to 2031.) Six years ago, not a lot of people were talking about it, said Augie J. Ribeiro, CEO and managing attorney for Ventura Law, who represented Tampa Bay Water. Youd be surprised how many (utilities) did not want to get involved. They would rather just put their head in the sand. They didnt want the public to say, Oh, you know what? We do have a problem here. Ribeiro said the utility will receive more than half of the payout by the end of the year. The rest will be transferred by 2030. So far, Tampa Bay Water has received $3.6 million toward its settlement payout following the yearslong legal battle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2020, lawyers filed a suit on behalf of the utility in federal court in South Carolina, where a judge consolidated a handful of cases against 3M and DuPont into one. The case referenced pollution from a particular type of foam used to fight fires, which has been connected to training sites, military bases and airports. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection lists MacDill Air Force Base as one place with a confirmed presence of at least one contaminant. Tampa Bay Water on its face didnt have any major problems, but they were forward-thinking enough and gave us the authority to file the suit, Ribeiro said. Sometimes utilities and cities get criticized for not taking action. Here, they took action, and we were ahead of the curve. Forever chemicals were found in 23 Florida counties water systems at levels exceeding the new federal limit of 4 parts per trillion, according to a University of Florida study published last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tampa Bay Water began quarterly tests for the chemicals in July 2023 as part of a yearlong study for the Environmental Protection Agency. It found three locations two in Hillsborough and one in Pasco to be slightly above the agencys new regulations. The city of Tampa began testing in January 2023. It has found levels far below the agencys standards, thanks to a treatment system at its David L. Tippin Water Treatment Facility, which was built in 2023 to prepare for coming federal regulations. The presence of forever chemicals, even at low levels, bolstered the utilitys case, Ribeiro said. Chemical manufacturers launched a government contract defense, arguing they had produced these chemicals in line with Navy specifications and were immune from prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge ruled against the companies defense. That sealed the case, Ribeiro said. A trial was coming up, and they were going to get crushed. In June 2023, 3M settled with the plaintiffs for $12 billion, and DuPont agreed to a settlement of $1.2 billion. But it wasnt until this week that Tampa Bay Water knew how much it would get from the companies. This agreement will benefit public water systems nationwide that provide drinking water to a vast majority of Americans without the need for further litigation by or on behalf of public water systems, a spokesperson for 3M wrote in a statement to the Tampa Bay Times. Further, 3M announced at the end of 2022 that it would exit all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next, Ribeiro was tasked with proving Tampa Bay Waters value to the lawsuit in a bid for how much of the settlement it should receive. Because the utility had signed onto the suit so early, it received 25% more money than other water providers of a similar size. It amounted to about $5 million more. The utility settled for $21 million, Ribeiro told the board Monday. After attorney fees, that sum will be closer to $17 million. Harry Cohen, a Hillsborough County commissioner and chairperson for the utilitys board, said the money will be used to improve the regions drinking water quality. First, he would like to see the funds go toward a filtration system to protect residents across the utilitys three counties from forever chemicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond that, to have this money available to us for other water quality improvement and safety projects is just an added bonus, Cohen said. However our board decides to utilize this money, it will be transformative. Cohen also applauded the boards foresight, saying the decision to sue saved residents millions that the utility would have had to find elsewhere to comply with new federal limits. Lisset Hanewicz, a St. Petersburg City Council member who also sits on the board, said the money will be stored in an account that earns interest until the utility is ready to spend it. It was opportune that the settlement came at a time when environmental projects around the country are being slashed, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given all the budget cuts that youre seeing, both at the state and the federal level, I think its good to see something like this happen where we can address some issues in our community, she said. The Tampa Bay Times launched the Environment Hub in 2025 to focus on some of Floridas most urgent and enduring challenges. You can contribute through our journalism fund by clicking here. POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) The Pottawatomie County Sheriffs Office is investigating the homicide of a Canadian national at a marijuana grow operation in Pottawatomie County. According to the department, Vongphachanh Philavanh, a Canadian citizen, was found dead on Thursday, July 10, at a grow operation near the 23000 block of E Hill Drive. Driver arrested after assaulting OKC officer during traffic stop, chase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the investigation, investigators were said to determine the homicide as a targeted robbery, and that there is no indication of any ongoing threats to the public. Officials say details are limited at this time as the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the homicide case is asked to contact the Pottwatomie County Sheriffs Office at 405-275-2526. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Correction: A previous version of this article included a photo of a Japanese honeysuckle that the caption incorrectly labeled a yaupon plant. The image has been removed. - - - Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. When the Sons of Liberty dumped over 92,000 pounds of tea into the Boston Harbor in protest of the passage of the wildly unpopular Tea Act of 1773, colonial Americans knew the political performance wouldnt force them to kick their caffeine habit. While they still hadnt found a way to successfully cultivate their beloved Camellia sinensis - the scientific name for the tea plant- on American soil, they had another locally grown option: yaupon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long used by Indigenous groups across the Southern United States, yaupon is North Americas only native caffeinated plant. Known by many Indigenous and colonized names, including cassina, asi, Carolina tea and Christmas berry, the yaupon plant is a landrace, evergreen holly variety that can grow up to 30 feet tall, appearing from North Carolina to East Texas. But even as it grows right under their noses and in their backyards, most Americans have probably never heard about yaupon. That may start to change. Thanks to President Donald Trumps tariffs, the modern-day yaupon industry is ready and waiting for the plants potential resurgence. Two and a half centuries ago, yaupon became part of a political movement. The Townshend Revenue Acts, which taxed a variety of common imports in the 1770s and allowed the British Parliament to meddle with the free market, brought colonial unrest to a boiling point. In that era of political boycott, colonists turned to tea alternatives made with a variety of herbs, fruits and indigenous plants, including yaupon. These liberty teas proved perfectly acceptable substitutes, until the American Revolution ended, the global tea trade returned, and yaupon was suddenly out of style again. Starting in April 2025, the Trump administration rolled out a slew of steep protective tariffs on nearly all goods imported to the United States, including tea, which carried its highest tariff rate since the Tea Act of 1773. Although modern-day America is usually considered a coffee-drinking nation, we also import hundreds of millions of dollars worth of tea each year, largely from countries such as China and India. The United States cant grow tea to the scale it consumes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials involved in trade decisions, Peter Goggi, president of the Tea Association of the USA, expressed deep concern over the impact of tariffs. The United States is not a tea producing nation, Goggi writes. There is no commercially grown tea that requires protection via tariffs, nor are there any tea-related farm-based jobs that would be protected by these tariffs. Meanwhile, with such a steady, sustainable supply grown right here in the United States, yaupon stands to be the only tariff-proof source of caffeine for American consumers. When I saw the news around tea and coffee, says Christine Folch, cultural anthropologist at Duke University and author of The Book of Yerba Mate, I thought, maybe this is yaupons moment in the sun. The modern-day yaupon industry includes a small, tight-knit group of farmers, producers and wild harvesters, known internally as yauponers. Abianne Falla, owner of CatSpring Yaupon in Cat Spring, Texas, and founder of the American Yaupon Association, sources native-grown yaupon through partnerships with local ranches. Its a 20-million-acre problem in Texas, says Falla, referring to the belief held by many Texas landowners that yaupon is a nuisance in need of fixing. Founded in 2011, CatSpring was one of the earliest yaupon producers on the market, offering dark and green roasts (similar to black and green tea flavor profiles) in loose leaf and bagged options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few states over in Crescent City, Florida, Yaupon Brothers uses more traditional agricultural methods to grow yaupon on a 124-year-old organic citrus farm (the oldest in the state). Much like other crops, their yaupon grows in tidy rows, which helps the company scale production and maintain some control over the naturally occurring plant. Yaupon Brothers founders Bryon and Kyle White found that the methodologies for growing yerba mate, another caffeinated Ilex plant native to South America, work similarly for its botanical cousin yaupon. While Yaupon Brothers and other commercial farmers do not grow yerba mate in the United States, they rely on similar pruning and harvesting techniques. Their yaupon trees are capped at six to seven feet and harvested three times a year, after which it comes back in a matter of months, says White. Much like traditional tea, yaupon tea is made with dried yaupon leaves that are chopped and roasted to suit different tastes, including the familiar green and black flavor profiles of the tea-drinking world. Unlike other traditional tea importers, Harney & Sons has embraced yaupon and sources the raw ingredient from CatSpring Yaupon. The company sells a loose-leaf blend as well as a ready-to-drink bottle sold exclusively at the popular salad chain Sweetgreen. But winning over the general tea-drinking public remains an issue for yaupon farmers and importers who might add yaupon to their offerings. America is an on-the-go culture, says Ahmed Rahim, founder of traditional tea importer Numi Tea, adding that hes still trying to find ways to get the American mindset wrapped around tea. Despite yaupons long history in the region, a large part of the industry still revolves around educating the public about the plant and how to drink it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many generations, yaupon was considered invasive and burned down to its hearty roots when land needed clearing. Its Westernized botanical name, Ilex vomitoria, has also spurred erroneous beliefs that yaupon induces vomiting if consumed and has flattened interpretations to the indigenous rituals to which it was once a central ingredient. The threat of tariffs spurred small-scale yaupon farmer Crystal Stokes to pivot to education. Through her organization Project CommuniTea, Stokes travels around and teaches her Richmond community about the history and benefits of yaupon, plant identification, and how to grow yaupon at home. I knew that changes in administration were coming and that consumers would be less likely to purchase a plant beverage that most would be trying for the first time, says Stokes. Despite the tariffs, traditional tea purveyors arent overly worried. According to Paul Harney of Harney & Sons, theres always some degree of chaos. Its always something, the pandemic, shipping, something. The tariffs motivated Harney & Sons to find tea grown in countries with fewer trade issues, such as Mozambique and Kenya. For Numi, Rahim sources from dozens of countries, and much of the companys production process is in Canada. Numi is the largest fair trade importer of tea and herbs in the United States, but Rahim says hes not panicked or anxious about the impact of tariffs and plans to wait and see whats going to happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Darren Hartford, the owner of Oliver Pluff & Co., which sells history-inspired beverages, including the story of what was dumped in the Boston harbor, is staying optimistic. The company is set to open its retail location in Charleston this summer and is busy prepping for collaborations related to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of America. Understanding its historical relevance, Oliver Pluff & Co. tried yaupon, but it turned out to be a fringe item. After the current tariffs started, another yaupon farmer reached out to Hartford, curious if he wanted to now incorporate more of the tea alternative in his offerings. Yaupon was never a big seller for Hartford, who remains hesitant to take a chance on the tea alternative again during a tumultuous market. While the yaupon industrys raw material is not impacted by tariffs, some producers packaging and other materials are sourced from tariff-heavy regions. Most businesses, especially small ones, cant simply decouple from a global supply chain, explains White. After the first wave of tariffs went into effect, the price of Yaupon Brothers Chinese-made packaging doubled overnight. Nonetheless, the tense economic situation has spurred the company to pivot to find new packaging, switching to American-made materials, which they hope will eventually reduce consumer costs overall. CatSpring Yaupon already used packaging sourced from U.S.-based manufacturers, but is using this moment to rebrand and double down on its messaging that yaupon is made in America. With a growing push for American-grown products and production, the yaupon industry is poised for growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CatSpring Yaupon has added manufacturing jobs back to their rural community in Texas and sends out so much mail they were able to keep their local post office open. CatSpring Yaupon collaborates with other small companies and restaurants across the nation. Anytime were added to the menu, were replacing an imported product, says Falla. On paper, were perfect for this administration. As Duke Universitys Folch puts it, yaupon could benefit from the current turmoil. The tariffs give us an opportunity to ask really deep questions about who we are and what we bring to the table, she said. If yaupon is indeed able to navigate the new realities of an American-made tea culture and, once again, help us rethink what made in America really means, it would be an epic, 250-year comeback. Related Content Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a stressful human world, mermaiding gains popularity in D.C. area College hazing or training? Amid shortage, air traffic recruits wash out. A 100-year-old on a bike? Yes. The right to wind in your hair A New York tattoo artist is accused of kidnapping a teenage employee and brutally beating her with the help of his wife and the family nanny. The victim, a 19-year-old woman the man was allegedly having an affair with, survived the alleged May 16 attack and reported it to authorities. Wayne Barnes, his wife Jasmine Barnes and the family's nanny Lizbeth Cerrato-Sanchez have been indicted in connection with the alleged crimes, the Westchester County District Attorney's Office said in a statement this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities claim the series of assaults began when Wayne, the 43-year-old owner of Sons of Ink tattoo parlor, was driving his employee to her home in Queens and the two got into an argument, culminating in Wayne kicking her out of the car on the Grand Central Parkway in Queens. The woman was then allowed back into the car, where Wayne allegedly struck her several times with an expandable metal baton, per the DA's office. Soon thereafter, Wayne got a call from Jasmine, who he picked up while the teen was still in his car. Jasmine reportedly entered the car wearing black gloves and carrying another metal baton. Once they arrived at the couple's home in Westchester County, the duo allegedly dragged the teen into the residence before Jasmine pushed her down a flight of stairs, according to the DA's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She allegedly dragged the teenager and hit her with the baton before Cerrato-Sanchez joined Jasmine, punching the teen in the face while Jasmine beat her. Cerrato-Sanchez was reportedly at the residence tending to the Barnes children when the alleged assault began, the DA's office said. At one point, after the nanny was "allowed" to go home, the DA's office said, the couple continued to threaten the teenager. (It wasn't immediately clear if Cerrato-Sanchez was coerced in any capacity). At one point, the teenager was able to convince Jasmine to let her go: the wife let her change into clean clothes and returned her phone before the teen was able to leave. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. The victim reported the incident to the Greenburgh Police Department the following day. The Barneses and Cerrato-Sanchez were arrested on May 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wayne Barnes was charged with kidnapping, criminal possession of a weapon and several counts of assault, while Jasmine Barnes has been charged with kidnapping, menacing, criminal possession of a weapon and two counts of assault. Both were released on bail, with Wayne's reaching $300,000, and are due back in court on July 29. Cerrato-Sanchez, who was charged assault and criminal possession of a weapon, was released on $10,000 bond, the DA's office said. Her next court date is on Aug. 7. Authorities did not mention a motive behind the alleged crime. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) In a recent budget meeting for Taylor County, a discussion was held surrounding a proposal to expand the inmate work crew program to help with both county needs and budget reductions. Using inmates to save the county money. Thats the idea behind a proposed plan to increase inmate work crews throughout Taylor County. Some commissioners say that due to growth in certain parts of the county, upgrading this particular resource could be a big benefit in several areas, including the county budget. Taylor County Judge Phil Crowley highlighted how utilizing inmate work crews comes at a far less cost to Taylor County taxpayers than hiring new salaried county workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thought process is, well, if we could have more inmate work crews, obviously thats a lot cheaper for the taxpayer, a better benefit from a taxpayer standpoint than adding more personnel to the county, Crowley said. $500 $1,000 cash rewards offered for Abilenes Wanted Criminals The county and its residents arent the only ones seeing the benefit, as being part of a work crew allows inmates some incentives as well. Inmate work crews traditionally help out in basic labor tasks that include both indoor and outdoor work. Some of those tasks include maintenance, landscaping, and even county road upkeep and repairs. In order to be considered for a work crew, inmates are traditionally low-level offenders who are at a minimal risk of causing problems outside of a cell. Taylor County Sheriff Ricky Bishop explained that many of these types of inmates utilize the work crew program in order to get reductions on their sentences. Somebody who comes to jail on a DWI gets sentenced to 90 days in the county jail. Well, they can go on the work crew and earn three for one. So, essentially, they can get out in 30 days, plus $100 a day can go towards their fines and court costs, Bishop explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of these potential reductions, county leadership is also pointing out that reduced sentences for these inmates also help reduce the population of the jail itself and the days that Taylor County taxpayers have to pay for in order to house these individuals. Sheriff Bishop also spoke to how this program helps the inmates learn a skill that they may not have had previously and how he has seen it help some with life after incarceration. Federal funding cuts close adult education in the Big Country Weve had several that have never used a lawnmower, weed eater, chainsaw, or anything in their life. They go out on the work crew and they learn how to use it. I know some of the lawn companies here in town have hired some of the guys that have come out of our facilities, Bishop shared. Currently, Taylor County only has two inmate work crews that consist of no more than five inmates per crew. If this proposal by Sheriff Bishop follows through, there could be a possibility of an inmate work crew for every precinct within Taylor County. Advertisement 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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. AUSTIN (KXAN) Travis County officials continue to search and assist residents after the torrential flooding that wiped out several areas the Sandy Creek neighborhood being hit the hardest on July 5. A news release from the Travis County Sheriffs Office identified those who were killed by the flood in the county, as well as detailed the countys response during and after the catastrophe. Flash flooding claimed more than 100 lives in Central Texas. Heres what we know about the victims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said they recovered 10 bodies, but only nine were identified, according to TCSO. Officials are currently waiting on one identification after the body of a man was located under the Big Sandy Bridge during a debris removal on July 16, the release said. According to officials, the body could be the last person on the countys list; however, authorities said they cant confirm the identification until after it has been investigated by the Travis County Medical Examiners Office. Because of this, officials said they cannot determine that all the people reported missing in the county have been found. TCSO said the following people have been identified and recovered, per the release: Dan Dailey, 67, of Leander Virginia Watts Dailey, 66, of Leander Betty Massey West, 84, of Leander August Panning, 50, of Leander 17-year-old female from Marble Falls Alissa Nicole Martin, 54, of Leander George Douglas West, 54, of Leander 15-year-old male of Leander 16-year-old female of Leander Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said they used the resources available to help and protect residents impacted, such as responding to hundreds of calls and assigning teams to keep affected residents away from unsafe roads and bridges. According to the release, dispatchers received rescue calls around 1 a.m. on July 5 and had over 600 calls. That is more than the offices normal call volume, the release said. TCSO received more than 600 calls above its normal call volume on July 5 (Courtesy: Travis County Sheriffs Office) The release said TCSOs Lake Patrol Unit conducted searches in the Cow Creek area, and the drone team helped with search and rescue efforts in Sandy Creek. Additionally, deputies were assigned to the affected flood areas 24 hours a day to handle traffic, respond to service calls and assist residents, volunteers and restoration crews. The destructive flood across Central Texas killed at least 135 people statewide, and eight others remain missing. Of the statewide toll, 10 deaths have been confirmed in Travis County, and four remain missing, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez said it is a goal of TCSO to serve and protect them to the best of our ability. Words fall short when trying to describe the devastation the flood caused. These communities are hurting, and it has been a goal of TCSO to serve and protect them to the best of our ability, Hernandez said. We remain committed to that mission. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. A few weeks ago, my wife had a minor accident (dodging a deer in the road) and knocked the side-view mirror off my truck. No one was hurt, and the damage looked simple enough. I figured I would replace the mirror, try to buff out the scratches, and move on. The next morning, the check engine light came on. As I started the truck, I noticed the air conditioning had stopped working. I wasnt sure if the two issues were connected, but it seemed like more than a coincidence. I plugged in a consumer OBD-II diagnostic tool to check for trouble codes. It returned a code: P0073. The tool said it was related to an air temperature sensor. That didnt mean much to me, and when I took the truck to a mechanic, they said they would investigate and try to figure out the problem. I figured even if they didnt find an answer, the labor itself would cost around $200. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While I sat in the shop waiting room, I started searching for answers. I Googled the error code, hoping to find out what it meant and how serious it might be. I got dozens of results. Automotive forums, blog posts, YouTube videos, and some not-so-helpful articles. Most results pointed to wiring problems or sensor failures buried deep under the hood. Then I decided to try something else. I opened Perplexity, a relatively new AI-powered search tool that is gaining attention as a smarter alternative to traditional search engines. I typed in the error code. Within seconds, Perplexity gave me a clear answer. It found that many vehicles have their air temperature sensor built into the side-view mirror. If the mirror is damaged or missing, the sensor cannot report back to the system. That causes the check-engine light to come on and can also disable the air conditioning to prevent damage. It wasnt in a link to a website; it was clearly included in the one or two-page summary of what Perplexity found after searching websites, Ford manuals, and Reddit communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I showed the result to the mechanic. He was surprised but agreed it made perfect sense. Rather than spend time chasing a non-existent wiring issue, we decided to hold off on any repairs until the mirror was replaced. That decision saved the shop time and saved me about $200 in labor. Google gave me lots of information, but not much clarity. Perplexity gave me one clear answer in less time. It is no surprise that companies like Apple and Meta have shown interest in buying it. Perplexity is not just a different way to searchit is a better one. If you have ever searched Google for help and ended up more confused, Perplexity might be worth a try. It just might save you time, money, and much frustration. www.perplexity.ai Advertisement 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 Texomashomepage.com. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Missouri passed its state film incentive in 2023, and since then Kansas City has attracted 15 major projects, including three television series. This week, filming for Apple TVs Ted Lasso season 4 makes its way across the metro. Ted Lasso season four begins filming in Kansas City In the original first three seasons, he has the BBQ shirts and there are definitely references, but nothing is truly in Kansas City, so the fact that they are here filming and theres a buzz in the community, Ted Lasso fan Jason Ebbing shared Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, filming took place at Gates Bar-B-Q at Main and Linwood in Midtown. On Monday, crews were seen at Kansas Citys Country Club Plaza. Production trucks were starting to set up Tuesday for upcoming filming in Blue Springs. I really thought it was a scam, but they continued to put letters on the door, April Cobb shared with FOX4. Just to see, across the street, on my block and right in front of my house, its pretty awesome. Ted Lasso to film in Blue Springs this summer While Blue Springs resident Cobb was offering up her garage to the needs of the production crew, the Hoffmans, also nearby, were offering up something of their own, too: lemonade on a hot summer day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We knew that there would be people in the area, workers in the area, maybe some people driving by, said Michael Hoffman, the father of three young children selling lemonade on Tuesday. Different conversations pop up and they ask what things are and we talk about it. Cole Payne spends time at Missouris state capital, hoping opportunities continue for the states film scene. As a film producer myself, you go where the finances make the most sense, said Cole Payne, president of the nonprofit Film in MO. I drafted the original Show MO Act with the sponsors of the bill. Payne hopes Kansas City continues to set the stage for the rest of the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, our film side is capped at $8 million a year, and our series side is capped at $8 million a year, so we really couldnt facilitate a whole season of a show like Ted Lasso or an Ozark right now with the current constraints with the cap, Payne said. But if we can continue getting big shows like this, even to come in for one or two episodes, I think its a really fantastic step forward and I think it can really show the legislators down at the capital that we should not only extend the sunset on the bill, but raise the cap on the bill, so that we can get a whole show or multiple seasons of a show in Missouri. The City of Kansas City, Missouri, shared a news release regarding the shows recent filming: Having Ted Lasso choose Kansas City as a filming location is a tremendous honor and a perfect homecoming for our friend, Jason Sudeikis. Ted Lasso embodies the same values of community, optimism and resilience that define Kansas City. The production will showcase Kansas Citys unique character and beauty to audiences worldwide while providing significant economic benefits to our local film community. Advertisement 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. A teenager has learned his punishment for killing three of his friends when he was 12 years old. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Christopher Atkins, now 15, was sentenced to 40 years in prison in connection with the murder of three people in Marion County, Florida, in 2023. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atkins was one of three charged in the murders. He and the two others, Robert Robinson and Tahj Brewton, pleaded guilty this past spring. Investigators said the three boys and the other three teenagers robbed a man when he was trying to buy a gun from them, our sister station at WFTV reported. The group then turned on one another. Investigators said Robinson ordered Atkins, who went by the street name 3-5, to shoot someone who had been riding with them. The group then dumped the three bodies in various locations. Investigators said the boys then burned their clothes as they fled back to Atkins house Due to his age, Atkins sentence will be eligible for review after 25 years. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW) A homicide investigation is unfolding in Mayfield Heights after a 19-year-old was found dead in the hallway of an apartment building. According to police, at about 9:45 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22, officers were called to the Gates Mills Place apartments on Mayfield Road after witnesses reported hearing an argument followed by gunfire shortly before the victim was found. Rare mosquito-borne virus confirmed in Northeast Ohio Police said three males are now in custody; however, their identities have not yet been released pending the formal filing of charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This does not appear to be a random incident, said Chief Anthony Mele. The investigation is ongoing. Local woman recounts terrifying stalking story The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner identified the victim as Jveon Jones, 19, of Euclid. He was found dead in the hallway of the buildings fourth floor, said the medical examiner. BCI is assisting with the investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Mayfield Heights Detective Bureau at 440-442-2323 EXT. 333. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 teenager riding on an e-bike was hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle in Falmouth on Tuesday evening. According to Falmouth police, around 5:34 p.m. officers responded to the intersection of Grand Avenue and Central Park Avenue for a reported collision between a vehicle and an electric bicycle (e-bike). Upon arrival, officers located a 15-year-old male from Falmouth, conscious but suffering from serious injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teen was initially transported to Falmouth Hospital, where he was then airlifted by MedFlight to Hasbro Childrens Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. The operator of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with investigators. Witnesses reported that both the vehicle and the e-bike failed to stop at the four-way intersection. The teen remains in stable condition, and the crash is under investigation. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A 14-year-old girl was seriously injured after being struck by a school bus in northeastern New Jersey Wednesday morning, according to the Bergen County Prosecutors Office. The teen, who has not been identified, was airlifted to an area hospital, Deputy Chief of Detectives Jeff Angermeyer said, according to NJ Advance Media. The extent of her injuries is currently unclear. The incident occurred just before 9 a.m. in Demarest, about 20 miles northwest of Midtown Manhattan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police responded to the intersection of Anderson Ave. and County Rd. following reports of a crash involving a bus and a child, according to Angermeyer. The bus, operated by First Student, Inc., remained at the scene following the crash, and the driver was cooperating with police. Demarest police and the Bergen County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit are investigating the incident. While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary findings suggest no criminality in the crash, according to the Daily Voice. Authorities had not released any additional information as of Wednesday afternoon. A 15-year-old boy was hospitalized after he was struck by a car while riding an electric bicycle at a Falmouth intersection on Tuesday, Falmouth police said. At around 5:34 p.m., officers learned of a crash at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Central Park Avenue, the department said in a statement. First responders arrived to find the teenager conscious but seriously hurt, police said. He was taken to Falmouth Hospital before he was airlifted to Hasbro Childrens Hospital in Providence. The boy is in stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cars driver remained at the crash site and cooperated with police, the statement read. Police were told by people who saw the crash that both the car and the bike failed to stop at the intersection. More Cape & Islands content Read the original article on MassLive. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) An already prolonged legal battle over a Nevada law clarifying the use of temporary employees on construction sites is probably not over. Nevada State Contractors Board attorney Louis Ling told board members last week that American Staffing Association, which challenged a labor law passed by the Nevada State Legislature in 2021, indicated to the court and directly to him that the organization plans on appealing an order issued by District Court Judge Lynne Jones on July 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AB227, the bill at the center of the battle, attempts to clarify in statute that any work requiring a contractors license must be performed by a licensed contractor or by an employee of a licensed contractor. It removed ambiguous phrasing that had left a gray area for the use of temporary employees paid through IRS 1099-forms and leased employees provided by private employment agencies. Joness final written order was issued earlier this month after three years of inaction, which prompted the Building and Construction Trades Council of Northern Nevada to successfully petition the state Supreme Court to require the issuance of a final order. The district court order lifted a temporary restraining order that for four years stopped the state from enforcing the law. American Staffing Associations notice of appeal is due Aug. 1, Louis told board members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louis added that the associations counsel told him he wants a stay of the district court order upholding the law in other words, get what he already had for three and a half years. He wanted us to agree to that, and of course, we did not. Louis continued, We have warned him that hes pursuing a motion that is very unlikely to succeed. David Behar, executive officer of the Nevada State Contractors Board, told the Nevada Current an appeal from the staffing agencies is to be expected. He echoed Lings assessment that he believes an appeal would not be successful. He added that the law could be reconsidered by the Legislature, though it is not scheduled to meet until 2027. Staffing agencies could also engage directly with the Contractors Board, though Behar added they might be too far on the issue for that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We always keep the door open to talk to people and see if we can find a working solution, he added. Behar said the recent ruling by the district court will not change much within his office. He doesnt expect a massive influx of new complaints related to the use of temp employees, though they will look into any that may be filed. Behar says his office has been proactive about addressing with the industry the need for workers on construction sites to be properly licensed and employees. The Contractors Board pushed for AB227 because of the concern about workers on construction sites being gig workers or leased employees who work for a staffing agency under the direction of a contractor on site. The boards position has always been that workers need to be W2-W4 employees, Ling told lawmakers in 2021, but a district court judge had ruled the statute at the time was vague. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being an employee means they are protected with workers compensation if injured. Labor groups have long argued that temp agencies open the door for employee misclassification, such as someone being paid as a general laborer but doing more dangerous roofing work that should come with higher pay and higher workmans compensation rates paid by the employer. Its not an issue until all of a sudden somebody is to get hurt, said Behar. Then its a rough situation to figure out. Who is to be liable? Those are the things we think about. Rob Benner, executive secretary treasurer of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Northern Nevada, told the Current their affiliates are relieved about the recent ruling and feel it is a step toward better protecting workers across the state. That said, the issue of employee misclassification isnt one they expect to go away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fight will never be over, added Benner. This isnt a sprint, its a marathon. Editors Note: This article has been updated with comments from the Building and Construction Trades Council of Northern Nevada. The Tennessee Department of Human Services is trying to close a suspected illegal daycare in Antioch where a 4-month-old was found dead July 18. Human service agents visited the Antioch home, in the 2000 block of Windcrest Lane, on July 21 to review the situation. Law enforcement launched an investigation when the woman who lived there said a 4-month-old baby had died in her care. No charges have been filed in connection with the baby's death as of the publication of this story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As noted in a July 22 complaint filed in Davidson County Chancery Court by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, the woman told authorities she was caring for two 4-month-olds and five 2-year-olds when one of the 4-month-olds died. Agents noted in the complaint that the woman was taking care of three unrelated children above the maximum allowed under the state law. The woman told agents she laid the child in a playpen and found him unresponsive 20 minutes later. The child had just begun visiting the woman's home after one of the other children left the day care, the complaint said. The woman said she was going to stop watching children, but agents received an email July 22 saying she planned to reopen her home for child care, the complaint said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Human Services issued a temporary injunction forbidding the woman from caring for children without an active license. 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 agency shutters unlicensed Nashville daycare after baby dies Gov. Bill Lee on a June 2025 trip to Paris met with Orano officials. In September 2024, Orano USA announced plans to locate a multi-billion-dollar uranium enrichment facility in Oak Ridge. (Photo: Courtesy Gov. Bill Lee's office) Tennessee officials hailed a uranium enrichment facility deal for East Tennessee in 2024 but months later exempted the project from sales taxes, forcing local governments to forgo untold revenue from the multi-billion-dollar project in a move that caught some leaders off guard. Oak Ridge City Manager Randy Hemann and Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank confirmed to the Lookout they didnt find out about the state and local sales tax break for France-based Oranos $4.5 billion project until this summer, even though the Tennessee legislature passed the exemption in April. Frank said the exemption wasnt part of a nuclear advisory councils recommendations, either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orano is nearing a contract for construction of the uranium enrichment project in the Roane County portion of Oak Ridge, a city made famous by the Manhattan Project and the race to develop a nuclear bomb during World War II. Lawmakers passed Senate Bill 885/House Bill 1133 at the end of the 2025 session in April, expanding the definition of certified green energy production to give sales and use tax credits to nuclear facilities, such as the Orano uranium enrichment project. In addition to the sales tax break, the company is receiving a $6 million grant from the states Economic and Community Development Department, part of $60 million Gov. Bill Lee put into a nuclear development fund over two years to bolster the industry. Another $5 million is going to the SSP-2 site in Oak Ridge, depending on a land transfer from the U.S. Department of Energy to Orano USA and license approval for operations by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, Type One Energy Group Inc. is using a $4.5 million state grant to repurpose the Bull Run nuclear facility in Clinton with a $233.5 million investment. Another grant for $715,000 is going to BWXT Enrichment Operations to manufacture centrifuge assemblies in Oak Ridge, part of a long-term plan to support fuel production for the National Nuclear Security Administrations defense program. Orano also announced in June it will open a business office in Oak Ridge for the uranium enrichment facility. With those projects in the works, Oak Ridge officials arent overly concerned about forgoing sales tax connected to the facilities, Oak Ridge City Manager Randy Hemann said. He expects to make up any losses with future property taxes and economic recruiting. We consider that an incentive that will help us attract more industry, Hemann said. He added that city leaders are happy with the trajectory of the nuclear industry, which is buoyed by the efforts of the governor and economic recruiters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee officials arent certain, though, how much the state and local governments will forgo in sales taxes. The Fiscal Review Office, which determines the fiscal impact of legislation, couldnt come up with a figure. The slate of facilities receiving a total of $19.5 million worth of state grants are expected to serve the Tennessee Valley Authority as it seeks federal approval to build a small modular reactor at its Clinch River site in Oak Ridge. Despite questions about the technology and escalating costs at a similar Georgia facility, TVA President and CEO Don Moul told the Associated Press such a facility could enable America to lead the world in the new technology. TVAs Jeff Lyash has reportedly said the utility needs 20 small modular reactors to shift the direction of energy production away from coal-fired plants. Tennessee isnt providing state funds to the federally-owned power provider, which serves parts of seven states in the Tennessee Valley region. TVA makes payments in lieu of taxes to Tennessee for purchases at four nuclear plants in Sequoyah and Watts Bar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the states financial analysis, components and construction costs for such a facility arent subject to sales and use taxes, and other portions are exempt as industrial machinery. Yet the bill passed this year also will apply to purchases of machinery and equipment for the small modular reactor, even those not made directly by TVA, a critical portion of the legislation. In addition, the states financial impact analysis says future nuclear energy facilities will be exempt from unknown amounts of sales and use taxes. Oak Ridge officials also are uncertain how much tax revenue the city will forgo. The political workings Republican Sen. Shane Reeves and Republican Rep. Clark Boyd sponsored the bill that reclassified nuclear projects as green energy, but an amendment that led to the sales tax exemption wasnt tacked on until the end of the session in April. The states nuclear advisory council made numerous recommendations when it wrapped up its work in October 2024, including reclassifying nuclear facilities to qualify as green energy for tax purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Anderson County Mayor Frank, who served on the panel, said the sales and use tax exemption wasnt part of the groups proposal. Still, Republican leaders Lt. Gov. Randy McNally of Oak Ridge and Sen. Ken Yager of Kingston pushed the amendment through the Senate with relative ease. Only in the House did it run into opposition, mainly from Democrats. McNally spokesman Adam Kleinheider said the lieutenant governor was aware of the bills tax breaks. He pointed out all four of TVAs nuclear plants are exempt from state sales and use tax. Kleinheider also noted that parts and construction for small modular reactors are exempt as industrial machinery. Tennessee has made nuclear energy a priority for the state and will continue to strive to remain on the cutting edge of the industry. It is essential to have necessary incentives in place to ensure the industry sees our state as the committed partner that it is, Kleinheider said. He declined to say whether McNally consulted local officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yager said in a statement the Senate bill provided nuclear energy the same tax breaks as other clean energy sources to help the state bolster production. Even though Orano announced its plan in 2024, eight months before the bills passage, Yager said it helped Roane County land the largest private investment in state history, which will bring significant long-term economic benefits to the region. Its important to understand that the tax exemptions are forgone revenues money the local governments werent receiving previously. Even so, the local governments concerns are well taken with me, and I am committed to ensuring the locals are whole, Yager said. I am working closely with local officials in Roane County, Oak Ridge and Anderson County to ensure the policy supports both our nuclear energy goals and the communities hosting these projects. Reeves, chairman of the Senate Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, said the bill came to him from the Nuclear Energy Advisory Council to attract more facilities and supply chain activity. He said it was discussed several times in committee and on the Senate floor and added that he heard no concerns about tax revenue from Anderson County, Oak Ridge or Roane County officials. The House initially voted 87-2 to pass the measure, but the Senate tacked on what Boyd referred to as the Orano amendment. Once McNally and Yager threw their weight behind the measure, Boyd didnt try to stop them, even though the House at first voted not to concur with the Senate amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate refused to recede from its support for the amendment in mid-April and senators cheered the decision. Ultimately, the House voted 70-24 in favor of passage with supermajority Republicans controlling the outcome. The governor signed the bill into law and it took effect July 1. Rep. John Ray Clemmons, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, said most Democrats had heartburn from the outset about expanding the definition of certified green energy production facility for nuclear production without scientific basis, along with creating a legal fiction for sales and use credits. Further, he believes the Trump administration is trying to privatize TVA as part of a long-term strategy. It was fiscally irresponsible for our state to forgo the significant state and local revenues that would have resulted from impending, significant private investments in nuclear energy production, Clemmons said, calling the move another tax break for corporations instead of working-class families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clemmons said while TVAs purchases are exempt from state sales and use taxes, the Senate amendment exempted any purchases not directly made by TVA, meaning any private entity enriching uranium materials, compounds or products could do the work tax free. Nor would private companies pay sales and use tax on industrial machinery and equipment used to enrich and convert uranium, he said. If private nuclear investments continue to grow, Clemmons said the revenue Tennessee and local governments forgo through tax exemptions will be truly significant sums. This story has been updated to include new information. A Tennessee woman has said she was denied prenatal care by her physician due to being unmarried. During a town hall in Jonesborough, Tennessee, a womanwho requested anonymity out of fear of retaliationshared that her doctor objected to her marital status, despite her having been with her partner for 15 years. She said the doctor refused to treat her, citing the Medical Ethics Defense Act and stating that it "goes against their Christian values." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman's story was first reported by Rachel Wells for TN Repro News, a Substack publication focusing on abortion and reproductive rights in Tennessee. "I'm lucky enough to live in a part of the state where I can seek care across state lines and that's what I'm doing traveling to Virginia for my prenatal care, scared out of my mind that I will go into labor and have to deliver in this state with a provider who feels that that child is more valuable than mine," she added. She said her pregnancy is wanted and that she is also the mother of a 13-year-old whom she "cant leave behind." Here's what to know about the act. What is the Medical Ethics Defense Act? What does it allow? The Medical Ethics Defense Act allows Tennessee healthcare providers, including individuals, institutions, and insurers, to refuse to participate in or pay for medical services that conflict with their personal or religious beliefs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law does not apply to federally mandated care, such as emergency services. It also ensures that providers cannot face legal or professional consequences for exercising this right and includes whistleblower protections. The act aims to safeguard providers' First Amendment rights and requires state agencies to promptly notify them of any complaints that could affect their licensure. Violations of the act can result in legal action and compensation for affected parties. When was the Medical Ethics Defense Act introduced? Who sponsored the act? The act was filed for introduction on Feb. 5 and was sponsored by Sen. Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin) and Rep. Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro), a physician. On March 12, Terry cited a nationwide physician shortage driven by burnout and what he described as moral injury. He also warned of the risks posed by weaponized reporting, when complaints are filed against healthcare professionals for refusing to provide care they believe is harmful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Terry argued that the legislation would put Tennessee in a stronger position to recruit and retain physicians, while empowering them to advocate for patients without compromising their ethical or moral beliefs. Erica Steinmiller-Perdomo, an attorney with conservative legal advocacy group Alliance Defending Freedom, championed the act, stating that it would protect healthcare professionals who refuse to participate in procedures such as voluntary abortions. "The cornerstone of healthcare should be the patient-provider relationship. Patients and providers have rights. Providers should not give up their rights to best serve their patients, Terry said on March 25. Patients need to know that our doctors are advocating for them with a clear conscience. Tennessee doctor criticized Medical Ethics Defense Act for lacking patient-centered focus Dr. Amy Gordon Bono, a Middle Tennessee primary care physician, said in a House Health Committee that the bill was "excessively broad" and could lead to "unintended consequences," including allowing providers to opt out of delivering necessary medical care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She argued that the bill does not put patients first. "When legislation is not patient-centered, its morally compromised to begin with, Bono said. "I worry this bill will lead to more patients not trusting their medical caregivers to provide the care they need." Bono argued that, contrary to Terrys claim that the bill would help address the medical professional shortage, actions taken by the Tennessee legislature could instead drive healthcare workers out of the state, or out of the profession entirely. She also addressed Terrys argument about moral injury, stating that failing to consistently meet patients needs has a profound impact on physician well-being. She added that the true moral injury in healthcare stems from being unable to provide high-quality care and healing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other opponents, such as the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee, argued that the bill creates vulnerabilities for LGBTQ+ patients or patients seeking certain forms of reproductive healthcare. OBGYN highlighted Tennessee's 'protection for freedom of conscience' Dr. Jonathan Shaw, an OBGYN who relocated to Tennessee from the Northeast, testified before the House Health Committee that he was "forced out" of his previous practice for refusing to announce his pronouns to patients, a policy he said conflicted with his personal beliefs. Shaw, who spent nearly a decade in New England specializing in reconstructive female pelvic surgery, said he declined to learn transgender surgical techniques and ultimately felt pushed out of his position for refusing to perform those procedures. "Not only was there a lack of evidence for supporting transgender surgery, my conscience also understood that we are created by God male and female and we should not go against that design," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He argued that Tennessee offers greater protection for freedom of conscience and praised what he called common sense policies that allow physicians to be guided by their moral and religious convictions. Physicians guided by God-given conscience are not seeking to put up barriers to care, he said. But are rather seeking to help their patients and I believe those are the types of health care professionals that will help this state continue to flourish." When was the Medical Ethics Defense Act signed? The act was signed by Gov. Bill Lee on April 24. Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for the Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com or follow her on X at @_leyvadiana This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee medical ethics law led to denied prenatal care, woman says WINTERSET, Iowa Emotions ran high and seats were scarce Tuesday morning as Madison County residents packed the Board of Supervisors meeting to witness what has become the latest focus in a series of local government controversies. By 9:15 a.m., every chair in the Annex basement meeting room had been filled with people lining the back wall and, eventually, the outside hallway as community leaders debated over who currently holds the County Auditor seat and what the future for the position looked like. The confusion stemmed from the recent resignation of the elected Auditor Teri Kaczinski and the subsequent appointment of Matthew Schwarz on July 3. But as Winterset resident Marisa Schneider pointed out, a key legal misstep followed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Auditor was appointed by the BOS on July 3rd and sworn in on the 7th, Schneider said during the public comment portion. I understand the public announcement was inaccurate because the announcement failed to inform the citizens of their right to a Special Election. Therefore, the appointment should be invalid. So, who is the county Auditor today? That is a question that WHO 13 had been working to answer since last Wednesday, when Auditor Schwarz was reportedly asked to leave his office in the courthouse and not return until the legal appointment had been made. An inquiry from WHO 13 to staff in the Auditors office was deferred to County Attorney Stephen Swanson. Swanson said it was unclear after a post on the Auditors Website, reportedly directed by Schwarz himself, described the seat as vacant. The issue fueled a tense and at times chaotic meeting, highlighted by outbursts, sharp exchanges, and a roughly 12-minute back-and-forth between Board Chairwoman Heather Stancil and her own professional legal representation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Help me understand, do we or do we not have an Auditor, because you kicked him out of the office last week, Stancil said during the exchange in front of the crowd. Thats because you and he combined, posted something that said we had a vacancy last week, Swanson responded, referring to Stancil and Schwarz. The notice was posted publicly online after it was discovered that the initial public notice of the appointment failed to inform residents of their legal right to petition for a Special Election. It is unclear how or why the language was left off. The issue is just one of several others that have plagued the county since January of this year, including the arrest and upcoming criminal trial for the elected Treasurer, alleged money mismanagement within the Treasurers office, controversy surrounding the elected Auditor, and several reported criminal investigations, including one recently announced surrounding Supervisor Stancil for alleged election misconduct by Sheriff Jason Barnes. In response, Stancil filed a lawsuit against the Sheriff and then a Temporary Restraining Order in Federal court to stop investigators from accessing her mobile devices after the Sheriffs Office served a search warrant at her home. She withdrew the motion for the TRO the following day, stating she had been provided sufficient relief in a state court. However, WHO 13 has not been able to find a record in the Iowa online court database. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The firestorm of issues has left residents frustrated for different reasons, with the crowd drawing both critics and supporters of the board. Here we are again, a packed room. This is not normal, right? Ive said this before, said Winterset resident James Phillips during public comment on Tuesday. The overwhelming majority of people in this county, when they had this voice, chose to put you two on this board to hold the line and you have done so, said Landon Keim of Earlham to Supervisors Stancil and Jessica Hobbs, who traditionally have voted together. Often, Supervisor Diane Fitch is the lone vote in opposition. But others, like Winterset resident Hannah Davis, pushed for accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the community feels that yet again another unqualified candidate has been put into the position in our community and they shouldnt be, then let the community vote on it, she said over the phone after calling in to the meeting. That is exactly what will happen. Initially, the meeting agenda had included a resolution to approve the appointment of Schwarz, and then a second swearing-in ceremony was expected to be held. Instead, the board voted 2-1 to table the resolution and allow Schwarz to return to the position as Temporary Auditor. Am I no longer under risk of arrest if I return to my office? Schwarz asked as he poked his head in from the back hallway after the decision was made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He appeared to be prepared for the move. A short time later he delivered a 25-minute presentation during the meetings New Business portion on findings from his first week in office. Among them, he identified several processes and policies that he believed could be improved or streamlined, including the countys employee credit card system, its purchase agreement procedures, and the payroll software. While he works more on learning the office processes, others will be working on an effort to replace him. Deputy Elections Commissioner Mikayla Simpson confirmed the validity of the petition for a Special Election during the meeting. The petition should be legally accepted based off of every single Auditor I have talked to, she said. I have talked to multiple around the state. The three-woman Republican board formally accepted the petition and scheduled a Special Election for August 26th. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But still, many are not happy about all of the recent chaos- and statewide attention- the county has received in recent months. Jeff Smuck, a member of the Madison County Central Committee, said the county is usually pretty quiet and that a lot of the negative attention seems to stem from political dissonance. We got a lot of big spending that had went on over the years, and it brought attention to, you know, the voters and we, you know, had some candidates elected that are are going to lower our taxes and cut some of this big government spending, Jeff Smuck told WHO 13s Katie Kaplan after the meeting. And (sic) when those elected officials got voted out, thats when everything turned to chaos. Judy Neal, who leans liberal, said she has her doubts about ever seeing a break in taxes amid the turmoil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont think theyre really lowering taxes. Weve got to pay for these county services, she said. Ive had to have the ambulance go three or four times since last year, and I dont want to see that service stopped or lowered. The next Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for August 12 just two weeks ahead of the August 26 Special Election that will determine who officially serves as the next Madison County Auditor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Shocking video captured the moment immigration officers detained an Oregon father as he was dropping his young child off at daycare - and he pleaded for them to let the child out before taking him into custody for deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents stopped Mahdi Khanbabazadeh on July 15 while he was driving his child to Guidepost Montessori school in Beaverton, a suburb of Portland. The alarming footage, obtained by Oregon Public Broadcasting, shows the 38-year-old chiropractor asking ICE agents to wait for three minutes because there is a baby in the car. After the child was removed from the car, ICE officers can be seen cracking open the drivers side window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the final clip, taken by a witness, the onlooker can be heard exclaiming: This is not OK, and no one here will identify themselves to me, as masked agents handcuff Khanbabazadeh and take him away. Khanbabazadeh, a citizen of Iran, entered the U.S. on a student visa, which ICE claims he overstayed. Meanwhile, his family says he is married to a citizen and has already applied and interviewed for a green card. ICE agents arrested Mahdi Khanbabazadeh, an Iranian citizen married to a US citizen, as he was trying to drop his child off at daycare near Portland, Oregon, last week. (Oregon Public Broadcasting) The clips, three taken on a dashcam and one by a witness, were provided to Oregon Public Broadcasting by Khanbabazadehs family and authenticated by the outlet. Khanbabazadehs arrest marks the first by ICE outside an Oregon school, as until earlier this year, federal policy prohibited immigration officials from making arrests near certain locations, including schools, houses of worship and hospitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident began around 8:17 a.m. as Khanbabazadeh was in the car with his child in the backseat and pulled over by cops, according to the videos timestamp. Daddy, police! the child exclaims from the back as officers tell Khanbabazadeh to roll his window down further. Yeah, thats police, Khanbabazadeh replies while grabbing his identification for the agents and telling them he is headed to his childs day care. The cops let him continue to the school, where they again approached the car. A second clip, recorded at 8:32 a.m. in the daycares parking lot, shows the father pleading with officers to hold off on their arrest as he waits for someone to pick up his child. Khanbabazadeh tells the youngster that mom is on the way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a baby in the car, he says. Is it hard to wait for three minutes? Khanbabazadeh can be seen in the footage talking with his child about the police officers mere minutes before he was arrested. (Oregon Public Broadcasting) Another dashcam clip captured ICE officers smashing the drivers side window of the car after Khanbabazadehs child had gotten out. The dad tells agents he is getting out, and one officer replies: We told you three times. Unbuckle your seat belt and step out of the car. The final clip, taken by a witness, shows Khanbabazadeh standing next to a black SUV being handcuffed and led away by ICE officers, some of whom are wearing masks. Khanbabazadeh is currently being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington, though his family is pressing for his release from the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ICE did not immediately return a request for comment from The Independent. Khanbabazadeh was arrested by ICE agents, who, according to the witness who filmed the arrest, would not identify themselves. (Oregon Public Broadcasting) In a press release the day after the arrest, ICE stated it initially attempted to arrest Khanbabazadeh during a traffic stop, but decided to allow him to drop his son off at preschool first. Officers allowed him to proceed to the daycare parking lot where he stopped cooperating, resisted arrest and refused to exit his vehicle, resulting in ICE officers making entry by breaking one of the windows to complete the arrest, a spokesperson for ICE said. The horrifying incident left the local community rattled, especially parents at Guidepost Montessori School who witnessed the arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Randy Kornfield was dropping his grandchild off at school at the time of the arrest and saw agents get into a tense exchange with a teacher who had asked them to identify themselves. He described the arrest as heartless, to Oregon Public Broadcasting. Other parents also expressed their concerns after witnessing the upsetting arrest of a fellow parent. I feel like a day care, which is where young children are taken care of, should be a safe place, Natalie Berning said after dropping off her daughter at the Montessori in Beaverton Friday morning. Not only is it traumatizing for the family, its traumatizing for all the other children as well. The arrest was witnessed by several parents at the daycare where Khanbabazadeh brought his child. ICE defended the arrest and confirmed the chiropractor was taken into custody. (Oregon Public Broadcasting) Kellie Burns, who has two children attending the preschool, said her husband was there and heard the glass shatter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than anything, we want to express how unnecessarily violent and inhumane this was, she said. Everyone felt helpless. Everyone was scared. Guidepost Global Education, which oversees the Montessori school, called the incident deeply upsetting. We understand that this incident raises broader questions about how law enforcement actions intersect with school environments, CEO Maris Mendes said in a statement. It is not lost on us how frightening and confusing this experience may have been for those involved especially for the young children who may have witnessed it while arriving at school with their parents. Two decades ago, Texas made history as the first state to grant in-state tuition to undocumented students. Now, it has taken that opportunity away upending thousands of young lives and, advocates warn, potentially influencing other states to restrict higher education access for immigrants. The U.S. Justice Department filed a complaint against Texas in June seeking to prevent the continued implementation of a 2001 policy that has allowed tens of thousands of undocumented students to pay the same for college as Texans with legal status. Rather than defend the Texas Dream Act in court, the states Attorney General, Ken Paxton, agreed to a consent judgment with President Donald Trumps Department of Justice within six hours of the complaints filing in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. On Tuesday, legal experts, educators and undocumented students warned of the far-reaching consequences of rollbacks to in-state tuition policies in Texas and other states during a call hosted by United We Dream, an immigrant youth-led organization. With the Center for Migration Studies finding that undocumented women are more represented on college campuses than their male counterparts, rescinding in-state tuition is of particular concern to women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The repeal of the Texas Dream Act is an attack on students who have grown up here and call Texas home, and it follows other cruel decisions in the state that have jeopardized the safety and rights of children and young people, particularly immigrant youth, said Juan Jose Martinez-Guevara, United We Dreams Texas advocacy manager. Those cruel decisions include the Trump administrations move in January to lift restrictions on immigration enforcement at sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools. Martinez-Guevara also cited the detention in May of a California fourth-grader who attended an immigration hearing at a Houston courthouse and the suicide of 11-year-old Texan Jocelynn Rojo Carranza in February after her classmates reportedly bullied her about her familys immigration status. Students of all ages in Texas are being robbed of their freedom to learn and the right to receive a safe and peaceful childhood because of their immigration status, Martinez-Guevara said. Just as Texas was the first state to pass a Dream Act in 2001, later inspiring 23 other states and the District of Columbia to pass similar laws, this wrongful and undemocratic repeal of the law is now being pushed as a blueprint to undemocratically end in-state tuition, militarize college campuses and persecute students in other states. Those states include Kentucky and Minnesota, which have been targeted by the Justice Department about their in-state tuition policies for undocumented students. But Texas, Martinez-Guevara added, stands out as a state officials have allowed to become a testing ground for some of the most extreme proposals in Project 2025, the Heritage Foundations ultra-right blueprint for a second Trump term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 24, the ACLU of Texas, Texas Civil Rights Project, Democracy Forward, National Immigration Law Center and Dallas-based law firm Lynn Pinker Hurst and Schwegmann filed a motion to prevent the Texas Dream Act from ending because the policy was repealed suddenly and without input from students, community members and colleges. If Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton will not fight for the policy, then we will, said Valeria Alvarado, a member of the ACLU of Texas legal team. Alvarado said that many Texans are deeply uncertain about what the laws repeal means for them. Some students have already been billed for fall semester tuition, for example. Even Texans with legal status wonder if tuition costs will rise as a result of the act ending since the repeal will likely lead to enrollment declines and financial losses for colleges. While Alvarado estimates that Dream Act recipients represent 1.5 percent of Texas college students, their impact is outsized. These students contribute $5.4 billion annually in state and local taxes, according to United We Dream, funding the very schools they may be shut out of attending now. These students add significantly to the overall tax revenue of the state and to the funding that these institutions rely on, Alvarado said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosie Kurtz, a high school math teacher for the Dallas Independent School District, said that she spends a lot of time helping 12th graders, many of whom are immigrants, explore their options for college. Due to the Dream Act repeal, those options will now be limited. Part of my job is to motivate them to go out and do something with their life, tell them that they can achieve their dreams, she said. How do you motivate students to go on and do their math classes if they dont think that they can afford to take a math class in college? Kurtz said that her community has made longtime investments in these students to help them prepare them for adulthood and college. And the idea that that could all be snatched away from them in such a cruel fashion is demotivating to the whole educators mindset, she said, adding that denying undocumented students of a higher education will hurt Texas by making its workforce less skilled. The fact that the Texas Dream Act was in effect for over two decades indicates how much Texans supported the policy, said Ovidia Molina, the middle school teacher serving as president of the Texas State Teachers Association, an affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), the countrys largest labor union with three million members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Educators and community members, families, businesspeople they all wanted this, Molina said. They knew that it was good for Texas. The Texas Dream Act was signed into law by Republican Gov. Rick Perry, with bipartisan support. Gladys Fatima Marquez, a member of NEAs executive committee, said the effort to roll back in-state tuition is part of a broader coordinated attack to undermine public education as a common good. We know exactly why public education lies at the core of their attacks, whether in state capitals or in Washington, D.C., because a public, free, universal education that is grounded in teaching critical thinking is a threat to authoritarianism, she said. Thats why they want to dismantle, defund, privatize and voucherize public education. Thats why they want to demoralize the educational professionals who have dedicated their lives to teaching, feeding, nurturing, counseling and driving our students to and from school every day. Two undocumented students also weighed in on how the repeal of the Texas Dream Act has affected them. They did not provide their names due to their legal status. One student, who said she has lived in the United States since she was nine months old, is a psychology major at a Texas college. Being undocumented made her fear that a higher education would be out of reach, but the Texas Dream Act enabled her to attend a community college. Even with in-state tuition, however, the cost of enrolling in a four-year university was prohibitive for her. A scholarship from TheDream.US, which provides financial assistance for undocumented college students, helped her cover the cost of tuition at the university she enrolled in during fall 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first time, I felt unstoppable, she recalled. I made new friends, joined student organizations and was inducted into an honor society last semester, and now, as a senior, with just one semester left, I could finally see the finish line. All that hope vanished the night I found out that the Texas Dream Act was being repealed after 24 years. A second student, a recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program an Obama-era policy that gives young people brought to the country as children temporary permission to live in the United States graduated from a Texas university last year with a microbiology degree. My dream has been to go back to school and obtain my Ph.D. to study viral diseases, he said, adding that the Dream Acts repeal has made that possibility uncertain. For me, the repeal of the Texas Dream Act adds to a growing list of obstacles that immigrant youth, undocumented young people like myself, are faced with whether its the looming threat of losing my work authorization in Texas after the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to sever work permits for DACA recipients in the state or having to constantly look over my shoulder when taking a walk outside because of the growing risk of being abducted and deported, as is the case for many DACA recipients. Krystal Gomez, managing attorney at the Texas Immigration Law Council, said that federal and state officials have sent a clear message: There is no safe space in this country for immigrant youth. Repealing the Texas Dream Act is also dangerous, she continued, because it requires higher education personnel with no understanding of immigration policy to make critical decisions about the future of immigrant students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas has provided virtually no guidance to universities, just two brief memos from the state higher education board, and thats it. No definitions, no trainings, she said. Last week, her organization held an emergency webinar in which higher education officials confessed to being confused about the repeal, she said. Weve heard from DACA holders at some Texas colleges who are being charged out-of-state tuition, even though those individuals with DACA are lawfully present under federal law, and therefore the court order does not impact their ability to access in-state tuition, she said. Some institutions are even saying that they were not going to let undocumented students or DACA-holding students register for classes, which goes far beyond what the court order requires. Also concerning is that some universities have given students just 48 hours to upload sensitive immigration documents to their cloud systems, Gomez added. Inconsistent approaches to the Dream Acts repeal mean that students access to affordable education now depends on which campus theyre attending and how that schools administrators interpret complex federal concepts when it should be determined by their legal status or lawful presence in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt implementation, Gomez said. Its chaos. The Texas Immigration Law Council is tracking inconsistent university policies and misclassifications of students and publishing explainers and information for young people, Gomez said. It is also pushing state agencies to issue guidance and for institutions not to buckle to fear as they try to comply with the law. Texas may be the testing ground for attacks on educational access nationwide, but we intend to make it the place where this assault on opportunity hits a wall, Gomez said. The question before us isnt just about tuition rates. Its about whether were going to allow fear and confusion to replace clear law and basic fairness. The post Texas was first to expand college access for undocumented students. Now its leading the rollback. appeared first on The 19th. News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott expressed gratitude to 26 states that sent emergency teams and resources to help Texas recover from devastating floods that hit the Texas Hill Country earlier this month. The interstate assistance came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact following Abbotts formal request for aid. Texas is grateful for the outpouring of support from our fellow Americans across the country as we continue to recover and rebuild after the devastating floods, Gov. Abbott said in a July 22 press release. The bravery and generosity of these emergency teams played a vital role in our mission to save lives and help our communities begin the road to recovery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The multistate response underscores the growing need for coordinated efforts across state lines in response to natural disasters. Climate-related emergencies have made such mutual aid agreements increasingly essential to alleviate the strain on overwhelmed local resources. States sent diverse specialized teams based on Texass specific needs. Alabama, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Virginia, and Wisconsin deployed swiftwater boat squads for water rescues. Urban search and rescue teams arrived from Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Nebraska, and Tennessee. Twelve states provided K-9 search teams to locate survivors in debris fields. Eight states sent voluntary agency liaisons to coordinate relief efforts. Arkansas contributed National Guard Blackhawk helicopters, while Ohio sent state troopers to assist with security and traffic control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arizona and North Dakota provided remote aerial equipment support teams. Louisiana also sent debris management specialists to assist communities in clearing flood damage. The Emergency Management Assistance Compact enables states to share resources during disasters while protecting deployed personnel and ensuring reimbursement for costs. The system has become increasingly vital as extreme weather events strain individual states response capabilities. Texas continues to support local recovery operations in flood-affected communities. Residents can find updated information and available resources here. Texas will rebuild, and we thank our partners for standing with us every step of the way, Abbott said. The Trump administration has awarded a $1.26 billion contract to build and operate a virtually unprecedented 5,000-bed immigration detention facility at Fort Bliss, an Army base near El Paso, Texas, a defense official confirmed to Military.com. The contract was issued to Acquisition Logistics Company, a relatively small Virginia-based firm with seemingly no notable experience managing large-scale federal projects. According to government contracting records, the company's previous work has largely focused on just a handful of modest administrative support services with contracts all under $2 million, which is relatively tiny within the defense industry. The massive Fort Bliss project reflects the Trump administration's effort to militarize its increasingly aggressive national immigration crackdown, which has entangled American citizens and sparked concerns from lawmakers and activists of human rights abuses. Troops have supported deportation raids and detention operations, and the Pentagon has established expansive national defense zones on the southern U.S. border and deployed thousands of troops there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Father of 3 Marines Who Was Beaten by ICE Agents Released, Leaving Family to Process His Detention The new detention facility, which is expected to house single adult detainees, will be managed under the authority of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, and is slated for completion by Sept. 30, 2027. The size and scope of the project make it one of the most significant investments in immigration detention infrastructure in recent years. Bloomberg first reported the news of the contract on Tuesday. About $232 million of the camp's construction cost will come directly from the Army's coffers, but another defense official explained to Military.com that the service will oversee spending the entire $1.26 billion figure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official said that the facility will consist of "temporary soft-sided housing." Similar structures have been used in prior years along the border to temporarily house families and migrants for Customs and Border Patrol. It's unclear whether soldiers will assist with operations at the detention camp. The second defense official told Military.com there are no plans to do so, but troops may serve as perimeter security, the official added. A spokesperson with Acquisition Logistics Company did not respond to a request for comment when asked questions about medical resources at the camp and who will provide security. That defense official described the arrangement as essentially "an ICE facility that the Army is paying for." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, about 70 Florida National Guardsmen are providing security at the impromptu immigration camp swiftly established deep in the Florida Everglades, which the administration has dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz." Additional bases are also set to host camps for immigrant prisoners, including Camp Atterbury in Indiana and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, often referred to as just Fort Dix, in New Jersey. In March, the Army was approved to build a new immigration facility at Fort Bliss. Civil rights advocates in Texas told Military.com at that time they were concerned about what conditions would be like at such a facility. "Those conditions will be deplorable," Danny Woodward, an attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project, said at the time. "The military is not set up to do that, right now, well." Other defense experts questioned what message the establishment of a new detention camp sends -- not just to the American public but also to the troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Military.com also reported in May that the Pentagon was shifting $1 billion of Army funds slated to be used for barracks instead to support the mass deployment of active-duty troops to the U.S. southern border as part of the administration's effort to clamp down on migration. Jennifer Kavanagh, the director of military analysis at the Defense Priorities think tank in Washington, D.C., said that, in addition to the further integration of the military into immigration enforcement, such moves also showcase that funds that could be used to improve the quality of life of troops are being pushed aside. "Is this really the best use of military resources? We know that junior staff, junior officers and enlisted personnel who are staying in military barracks face mold and other types of problems in their housing," Kavanagh told Military.com. "So is building tent facilities to house migrants really the best use of DoD funding, or any funding? If we're gonna build anything on military bases, shouldn't it be to help service members?" Related: Guardsmen Help Operate 'Alligator Alcatraz' as Trump Increasingly Leans on Military for Immigration Crackdown AUSTIN (NewsNation) Texas lawmakers have begun reviewing the response to the catastrophic floods that killed at least 136 people over the Fourth of July weekend. A top Republican leading the effort emphasized they do not intend to second-guess local officials or assign blame for the tragedy. Our select committee will not armchair quarterback, Republican Sen. Charles Perry said, and would instead seek to draw lessons on flood prevention and preparedness. Local officials have faced criticism over the lack of warnings issued to residents along the Guadalupe River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State and county emergency response officials testified, but no officials from Kerr County, the area most hard-hit by the floods. Perry, the committee chair, said this would avoid pulling them away from their work. Advocates urge Supreme Court to review Ten Commandments laws The devastation in the states Hill Country region and a partisan redrawing of congressional maps, aimed at giving Republicans more winnable seats in the 2026 elections, are significant issues in the 30-day special session, which is already off to a combative start. Democrats have said flood relief and early warning systems must be addressed before they will consider any votes on redistricting sought by President Donald Trump. They have not ruled out a walkout in an effort to derail the redistricting effort, which they have criticized as a partisan power grab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton has threatened arrests and $500-a-day fines for lawmakers who attempt to break quorum. The bipartisan select committee is tasked with reviewing four key issues: Flood warning systems Emergency communications Relief funding for Hill Country communities Natural disaster preparation and recovery Texans demand accountability after floods The Texas Emergency Management Department Chief Nim Kidd confirmed Wednesday that the number of deaths was 136, up from 135, after Republican Gov. Greg Abbott said a missing womans body had been found. Two people remain missing, a man and a girl from Camp Mystic, according to Abbott. At one point, more than 170 people were unaccounted for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After floodwaters rose in Kerr County, 27 campers and staff, most of them children, died at the all-girls Christian summer camp that lacked a formal warning system along the river despite multiple opportunities to implement one. Lawmakers are scheduled to visit the hard-hit city of Kerrville on July 31 to hear directly from residents. Some locals have said Wednesdays session is a critical test of whether Abbott and the legislature will follow through on promises to act. If the only warning system is a cellphone alert, what happens if you dont have them? Or the service is weak or nonexistent? said Chas Moore, organizing director at Austin Justice Coalition. This wasnt just a climate disaster. This was a preventable and politically charged crisis, said Cassidy DiPaola, of the Make Polluters Pay campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps accusations of Obama create divisive feelings and distractions for Americans Democrats focused on Texas flooding as redistricting battle looms While lawmakers from both parties support action on flood recovery, the redistricting battle looms. On Monday, the majority of House Democrats signed a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, pledging to abstain from any legislative work unrelated to the floods, the Associated Press reported. The stage is now set for a high-stakes session that could shape not only how Texas handles future natural disasters but also how it conducts its next election. 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. By Brad Brooks (Reuters) -Texas state lawmakers met during a special session on Wednesday, to address for the first time the deadly flash floods that hit the Texas Hill Country this month, killing at least 137 people. Senator Charles Perry, chairperson for the joint Senate-House committee investigating the preparation for and response to the flooding, said the committee did not want to assign blame, but sought "constructive policy solutions which will remit future loss of life." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas Governor Greg Abbott included the investigation on the agenda of a special legislative session that opened on Monday. Abbott said on social media that the death toll from the July 4 flash flooding ticked up to 137, and a man and a girl remained missing. Nim Kidd, chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management, was the first person lawmakers called to testify. He described the vast state's emergency response system as fragmented. Under the system, each of 254 counties maintains control over ordering evacuations. Such an order was not given in the hardest hit areas earlier this month. Kidd told lawmakers that to improve preparation for natural disasters, he needed better in-house radar systems, better communications systems to warn local leaders and residents, and more resources for evacuations or to assist residents who shelter in place. The high casualty toll ranked as one of the deadliest U.S. flood events in decades, raising questions about the lack of flash-flood warning sirens in hardest hit Kerr County. Many have expressed concern about vacancies at National Weather Service offices due to staffing cuts under President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislative committee investigating the floods will next meet on July 31 in Kerr County. The committee will write a report to be forwarded to the full Texas Senate and House to inform possible legislation during the month-long special session. (Reporting by Brad Brooks in Colorado; Editing by David Gregorio) In July 2025, a claim circulated online that a Texas father had moved his family to Russia before enlisting in the country's armed forces and fighting on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. While it was true that Derek Huffman moved his wife and three daughters to Russia and enlisted in the military there, we found no proof that Huffman ever fought on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. The Huffmans documented their move and Derek Huffman's enlistment on their YouTube channel. In a since-removed video, DeAnna Huffman, Derek Huffman's wife, expressed concern that her husband would be sent to the front lines. However, Tim Kirby, the founder of American Villages in Russia who helped secure housing for the Huffmans, told Snopes over email that Derek Huffman "was never involved in front line combat." Derek Huffman's exact location and role within the Russian armed forces remained uncertain at the time of this writing. In July 2025, a claim (archived) circulated online that a man from Texas named Derek Huffman moved his family to Russia to avoid "woke" values but ended up joining the Russian armed forces and fighting on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. This is Derek Huffman, a Texan who was so captivated by Russia and its policy of protecting traditional values that he left the United States with his family and moved to Russia. Hoping to obtain citizenship, he signed a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defense. pic.twitter.com/qATxPmCYfu Visioner (@visionergeo) July 21, 2025 One X claim recounting the Huffman family's story claimed that Huffman had "disappeared somewhere in eastern Ukraine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim also circulated on Facebook (archived), Threads (archived), Instagram (archived), Bluesky (archived), Reddit (archived) and TikTok (archived). Snopes readers searched our site to find out if the claim was true. The Huffman family documented their move to Russia on their YouTube channel, including a video of the family arriving in Russia in April (archived) and another in May (archived) about Derek Huffman's enlistment with the Russian armed forces. In a since-deleted video (archived), DeAnna Huffman, Derek Huffman's wife, expressed fears about Derek Huffman being sent to the front lines after he enlisted, something the family hoped to avoid. The most recent video (archived) showing Derek Huffman, posted on June 15, showed the father of six in military fatigues talking about being away from the family. Russian media also reported that Derek Huffman moved his family to Russia before enlisting. However, exactly what role Derek Huffman was fulfilling in the Russian armed forces and where were unclear at the time of this writing. Tim Kirby, a travel blogger who founded the expat village where the family lives, told Snopes over email on July 22 that Huffman was "doing the work that is inline with what he agreed to during his sign up negotiations." According to DeAnna Huffman's since-deleted video, her husband had wanted to be a war reporter or in a "repair battalion," owing to his extensive experience in welding. Kirby said Derek Huffman "was never involved in front line combat from what I understand and he is certainly not doing so now." We reached out to DeAnna Huffman through the Huffman Time YouTube channel to ask if she knew whether Derek Huffman was in active combat on the Russian front lines. We also reached out to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to confirm whether Derek Huffman had enlisted with the country's armed forces and what role he was carrying out. We await replies to our queries. Tracking the Huffmans The family, as seen on their Huffman Time YouTube channel, consisted of DeAnna and Derek Huffman, their three daughters and a dog. According to reports, the couple has three adult sons between them who remain in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, Derek Huffman told Russia Today the family first moved from Arizona to Texas to escape "LGBT propaganda." However, after one of Derek Huffman's daughters "learned about lesbians from a girl in her class," the Huffmans decided "something had to change." Derek Huffman said in a March 9 video that "concerns over LGBT indoctrination in the American schools" were a primary reason the family made the move. On April 5, Kirby posted a video (archived), titled "The arrival of the second family to the American Village in Russia" that showed the Huffmans on VK, a Russian social media platform. Around a month later, Huffman Time posted a video (archived) showing the family getting their Temporary Residence Permit. This visa, established by decree by Russian President Vladimir Putin, allows people "from countries where neoliberal values are promoted at the state level" a fast-track way to enter, work and live in Russia for three years. The U.S. was one of more than 40 countries where citizens could seek the Temporary Residence Permit. Huffman enlisted for Russian citizenship By the end of May, Derek Huffman had evidently decided that he wanted more than just a Russian visa. In a video recorded in Nizhny Novgorod, Huffman said he would enlist in the Russian armed forces as a way to get his family Russian citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huffman explained in a May 26 video that if he signed and served a one-year contract with the Russian armed forces he and his family could get Russian citizenship immediately. He said (at 8:10): A big part of it for me is about the respect and earning our place here in Russia, earning our citizenship. You think about America, people just come on in. They're given everything. They just don't really assimilate and they're just there for the free handouts. I don't want anyone here in Russia or anywhere to be able to say we don't belong here. And if I go put my body on the line for Russia, I defend the country, our new country, I've earned our place here and nobody can tell me different or tell my family different that we don't belong here. Huffman said in the video that he would join the "special military operation" (the term used by the Russian government to describe the war in Ukraine) "today." Around three weeks later, on June 15, former Ukrainian politician Anton Geraschenko posted a video showing DeAnna Huffman talking about her husband's deployment. In the footage, Huffman said that it seemed as if the armed forces would send her husband to the front lines. According to Huffman, unnamed people had petitioned for Derek Huffman to serve as a war reporter rather than in active combat, but that request was denied. "They" then attempted to place him on a "repair unit" to utilize his welding experience, which also did not happen, according to DeAnna Huffman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeAnna Huffman also said that recruits in the foreigner's unit received instruction in Russian, a language the family had not yet mastered: He's kind of struggling a little bit with that and not getting really any training because, unfortunately, when you are taught in a different language and you don't understand the language, how are you really getting taught? You're not. So, unfortunately he feels like he is being thrown to the wolves right now. Huffman also said that though her husband had not yet been paid for his time in the armed forces, officials had asked him to contribute money to help pay for supplies. She said that the family was lobbying "public figures" to get a safer deployment for him. The clip Geraschenko shared did not appear on the Huffman Time YouTube channel at the time of this writing. Comments on a June 28 video, titled "Russia: Big Water Adventures with Our Husky & Family Update!" that showed DeAnna Huffman wearing the same (archived) shirt and glasses as the Geraschenko clip, seemed to suggest that the Huffmans removed the clip from that video before re-uploading it. One commenter wrote, "Wait, we already saw this a week ago!?" to which another replied, "The previous video was attacked by bots because of the same topic and had to be deleted, leaving only the part about the lake." On June 16, Huffman Time uploaded a video of Derek Huffman in army fatigues sending a Father's Day video to his family. Huffman did not say in the video where he was, which is standard procedure for deployed soldiers to preserve operational security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, it seemed that the Huffmans' money issues were persistent despite his seemingly active enlistment. On June 24, Kirby, the man who helped the Huffmans secure housing through American Villages in Russia, posted (archived) on VK asking people to send money to the Huffmans, who were still without an income due to delays with Derek Huffman's paychecks from the armed forces. The Huffman Time YouTube channel replied to a comment on a July 15 video that Derek Huffman was "fine" but that the family would not "give details or videos for everyone's safety." DeAnna Huffman said (archived) in the video that "He is alive and safe and just counting down the days. He will be finishing up his army and coming home and visiting. We miss him very much," referring to Derek Huffman. DeAnna Huffman also said she was due to fill out citizenship paperwork for herself and her daughters. Huffman did not respond to media inquiries by Russian media in July about where her husband was. In an interview with Russian-language media Vot Tak, Kirby said the family was tired of "Kyiv trolls" contacting them about the family's choices but did not comment on where Derek Huffman was. Sources: American Villages. http://americanvillages.ru. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Huffman Time." YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_6kepNupC41Ta1Kj84mhsQ. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. Shared Values EN Welcome to Russia. https://welcome-to-russia.com/shared-values-residency/. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. " , ." Interfax.ru, 20 Sep. 2024, https://www.interfax.ru/russia/983005. " - ." RT , 21 May 2025, https://russian.rt.com/russia/news/1481412-amerikanec-haffman-pereezd-rossiya. , . . . " ." , 20250609T0800, https://ria.ru/20250609/ru-us-2021302652.html. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "" , ". "-" ." , 1753107300000, https://novayagazeta.eu/articles/2025/07/21/oni-khotiat-chtoby-my-byli-tolstymi-i-tupymi. " ?" . 12 Jul. 2025, https://tsargrad.tv/shows/pochemu-my-uehali-iz-ameriki-v-rossiju-semja-haffman-pojasnit-russkim-ljudjam_1304050. , . "" " : , " ". ." Vot Tak, https://vot-tak.tv/87851499/amerikanskaya-derevnya. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025. AUSTIN (Nexstar) Exactly one month after Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed a proposed hemp-derived THC ban, the Texas Senate is debating a new, nearly-identical ban. In his veto proclamation, Abbott said that a full ban went too far and would likely be tied up in court, similar to Arkansas THC ban. But after Abbotts proclamation, a judge ruled that Arkansas THC ban could go into effect, complicating the governors reasoning. Now, Republicans are hoping the door to a full ban could be re-opened. The Senate Committee on State Affairs listened to hours of testimony from the public Tuesday on Senate Bill 5, filed by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock. The hearing included members of law enforcement who strongly advocated for a ban, and members of the community who say a ban would infringe on their rights as individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kaufman County District Attorney Erleigh Wiley spoke in favor of the bill. And while other law enforcement testified that the product was unsafe, Wiley cited the issue of testing products to determine if they contain legal amounts of THC less than 0.3% or a higher concentration, which would be illegal. That distinction means the difference between if someone is charged with a crime or let free. As youre delaying prosecution because of the testing thats going on, you might have someone that has a legal amount, and so that person is sitting in custody if they cant make bonds, Wiley said. Wiley said she does not think regulation works, because the market of hemp-derived THC is already regulated. Existing law prohibits THC products from exceeding 0.3% THC, but there is currently no state-enforced age restriction, even as many retailers only sell the product to those 21 and older. After Abbotts initial veto, he, along with many colleagues, called for stricter regulation. But some Republican senators at Tuesdays hearing did not appear to have an interest in entertaining the idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zach Crow is a Houston attorney who represents companies with a stake in the Texas THC market. He disagreed with the notion that regulation has already been tried, saying that much more could be done to fund regulatory actions. If the problem is funding, why not slap an excise tax on the products, or why not increase licensing fees to actually be more than 100 bucks a pop, right? But they havent tried that because they dont want to do that. This is about control, Crow said. Crow pointed to the fact that other states have legalized recreational marijuana use and have strict regulatory bodies to enforce the law. He said that current opposition to THC from legislators is contrary to the Texas Compassionate Use Program, which allows those with certain medical conditions to obtain marijuana as medication. Weve acknowledged that federally illegal marijuana under the TCUP program is fine and its helping people, Crow said. Which one is it? It cant be both. Either THC and cannabis are good things that can help people, or its evil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But among the testimony senators heard, many law enforcement officials and medical experts said that the product is too dangerous to have on the market, even regulated. They cited instances of people making deadly decisions after consuming the product. It is unclear if SB 5 will ultimately pass the legislature. The fate of the bill could be indicated by statements from the governor on what he is willing to sign. But so far, he has not indicated exactly what he wants to see in a THC bill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. [Source] A 35-year-old woman was arrested in Nonthaburi, Thailand, on July 15 for allegedly engaging in sexual relations with senior Buddhist monks and using explicit materials to extort money from them. Blackmail scheme: Police say Wilawan Emsawat targeted at least nine monks, persuading them into sexual relationships and then blackmailing them with compromising photos, videos and chat logs. Over three years, Emsawat reportedly collected about 385 million baht ($11.9 million) much of which was spent on online gambling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evidence uncovered: The case, which has become a national scandal in Thailand, surfaced after a prominent monk from a Bangkok temple resigned from the clergy and disappeared amid blackmail demands. Investigators say Emsawat claimed to be pregnant and demanded roughly 7.2 million baht ($222,200) from the monk. A police search of her residence uncovered five mobile phones and tens of thousands of files used in the extortion. All nine monks identified in the investigation have been defrocked and removed from their positions. Trending on NextShark: Positive emotions boost learning, study shows Crackdown launched: Thai officials are responding with calls for stricter oversight of the Buddhist clergy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered a nationwide review of temple finances and monk conduct. Police have also launched a hotline for the public to report suspected misconduct and plan to carry out audits at temples across the country. The Sangha Supreme Council is considering new rules, including fines or jail time, to prevent similar scandals. Trending on NextShark: How your childhood violin lessons can help keep your mind sharp as you age This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices. Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community. Subscribe here now! Trending on NextShark: Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang advocates for AI: 'it lifts people' Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! BANGKOK (AP) Thailand closed northeastern border crossings with Cambodia and said Wednesday it was withdrawing its ambassador and expelling the Cambodian ambassador to protest a land mine blast in which a Thai soldier lost a leg. Cambodia responded Thursday that it was downgrading diplomatic relations with Thailand to their lowest level and recalling all Cambodian staff from its embassy in Bangkok. Relations between the Southeast Asian neighbors have deteriorated sharply since May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in an armed confrontation in one of several small patches of land both countries claim as their own territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nationalist passions on both sides have further inflamed the situation, and Thailand's prime minister was suspended from office on July 1 to be investigated for possible ethics violations over her handling of the border dispute. The Thai army said the land mine that wounded five soldiers Wednesday had been placed in Thailand's Ubon Ratchathani province. Cambodia said the blast happened in its Preah Vihear province. A week earlier, a land mine in a different contested area exploded and wounded three Thai soldiers when one of them stepped on it and lost a foot. Thai authorities have alleged the mines were newly laid along paths that by mutual agreement were supposed to be safe. They said the mines were Russian-made and not of a type employed by Thailands military. The army statement called on Cambodia to take responsibility for this incident, which constitutes a serious threat to peace and stability in the border region between the two countries. After last weeks blast, Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the Ottawa Treaty, an international pact that bans the production and use of anti-personnel land mines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodia rejected Thailand's account as baseless accusations. Defense Ministry spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said the land mine explosion took place on Cambodian territory and alleged Thailand had violated a 2000 agreement regarding the use of agreed paths for patrols. Cambodia has denied that it laid new mines along the border, pointing out that many unexploded mines and other ordnance are a legacy of 20th century wars and unrest. Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the Foreign Ministry would make an official protest to Cambodia, and further measures would be considered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodias Foreign Ministry said in a statement Thursday that it demanded all Thai diplomatic staff leave Cambodia and was recalling Cambodia staffers at the embassy in Bangkok. Many border checkpoints had already been closed by one side or the other or operated with restrictions after relations between the neighbors deteriorated following an armed confrontation on May 28 in which one Cambodian soldier was killed in one of the contested areas. Cambodia has banned Thai movies and TV shows, stopped the import of Thai fruits and vegetables and boycotted some of its neighbors international internet links and power supply. It also stopped importing fuel from Thailand. - Associated Press writer Sopheng Cheang in Phnom Penh, Cambodia contributed to this report. ___ This version has corrected the Thai prime minister was suspended July 1, not last month. BANGKOK (Reuters) -Thailand has recalled its ambassador to Cambodia and will expel Cambodia's ambassador, the ruling Pheu Thai Party said on Wednesday following a landmine incident that injured a Thai soldier along the disputed border between the two countries. The Thai Foreign Ministry has lodged a formal protest with Cambodia, saying the landmines found in the area were newly deployed and had not been encountered during previous patrols, the party said on social media. Thailand has downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodia's government did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Its government spokesperson referred Reuters to the foreign ministry. Thailands foreign ministry said it had yet to be informed of the decision to recall the Thai envoy and the plan to expel Cambodia's ambassador. The government has also ordered the closure of all border checkpoints under the jurisdiction of Thailand's Second Army, the Pheu Thai Party said. "Tourists are strictly prohibited from entering these border areas," it said. In the landmine incident on Wednesday, the soldier sustained injuries and lost his right leg, the party said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, Thailand accused Cambodia of placing landmines on the Thai side of the disputed border area after three soldiers were injured, but Phnom Penh denied the claim and said the soldiers had veered off agreed routes and triggered a mine left behind from decades of war. Thai authorities said the soldiers were injured, with one losing a foot, by a landmine while on a patrol on July 16 on the Thai side of the disputed border area between Ubon Ratchathani and Cambodia's Preah Vihear Province. Cambodia's foreign ministry denied that new mines had been planted, and said in a statement on Monday night that the Thai soldiers deviated from agreed patrol routes into Cambodian territory and into areas that contain unexploded landmines. The country is littered with landmines laid during decades of war. (Reporting by Panu Wongcha-um and Orathai Sriring; Editing by Timothy Heritage and Ed Osmond) Tourists on a Thai island whose Full Moon Parties gained global fame with the most recent season of the hit series "White Lotus" have become victims of elaborate burglary plots aided by drones, according to local media. Burglars on the island of Koh Phangan have regularly been spying on tourists with drones to check on their location before breaking into their holiday accommodations. The tourist police have now arrested four suspected perpetrators, the newspaper Bangkok Post reported on Wednesday, citing authorities. The suspects, aged between 25 and 30, were said to be from the neighbouring country of Myanmar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The men reportedly used their drones to monitor various houses and apartments rented to tourists, quickly breaking in once they suspected an easy target. The number of such cases had increased in recent weeks, leading to complaints. The group admitted to spending the stolen money on drugs. Officers reportedly seized more than 60 methamphetamine pills from them. Koh Phangan, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is one of the kingdom's most popular islands. It attracts young people from all over the world, especially to the Full Moon Parties at Haad Rin Beach. Yoga enthusiasts, on the other hand, are drawn to the island's numerous retreats and spas. The satirical drama "White Lotus" boosted local tourism with a third season in February that took viewers to a fictional high-end holiday resort in Thailand, with some scenes reported to have been shot on Koh Phangan. The so-called Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan have been a fixture for many Thailand tourists for decades. Ian Robert Knight/dpa [Watch previous FOX 8 I-Team coverage in the player above.] ASHLAND, Ohio (WJW) A third person indicted after a 6-year-old boy was handcuffed and mauled by a pit bull has been sentenced to prison. The FOX 8 I-Team previously reported on the Aug. 17 incident in Savannah, Ashland County, in which the boys mother, her boyfriend and uncle handcuffed him by the ankles and wrists as punishment for refusing to clean up after the dog. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rare mosquito-borne virus confirmed in Northeast Ohio The boy slipped while restrained and the dog attacked, biting the boys neck and ear, the I-Team reported. The child was flown to a hospital for his injuries. Robert Michalski Jr., 48, of Savannah, the owner of the dog, was indicted in Ashland County Common Pleas Court in September 2024 on several felony counts, including complicity and tampering with evidence. From left to right: Robert Michalski, Angelina Williams, Taylor Marvin-Brown (Ashland County Sheriffs Office) A jury in June convicted him of two counts of complicity and the tampering charge and acquitted him of four other charges, court records show. A judge sentenced him on Tuesday, July 22, to a total of nine years in prison. Hell also be on probation for one to three years upon release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boys mother, Angelina Williams, 28, was sentenced earlier this month to 23 to 28 1/2 years in prison on counts including child endangerment and kidnapping, the I-Team reported. Shell be eligible for parole in 2047, state prison records show. Teen found dead in local apartment hallway At the time of the attack, the boy and his older sister were visiting Williams, who had lost custody of the children in 2019, the I-Team reported. During a court appearance while her case was pending, she reportedly told a judge she did not know it was illegal to use handcuffs on a child. My uncle told me it was OK, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A third convict, Taylor Marvin-Brown, 30, of Sandusky, was also sentenced earlier this month to serve between 10 and 15 years in prison on counts of complicity and obstructing justice, the I-Team reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The third round of peace talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations began on the evening of 23 July in Istanbul, Turkiye. Source: Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne, reporting from the scene; Turkish news agency Anadolu Details: It is reported that the Ukrainian delegation is headed by Rustem Umierov now in the role of Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council. The Russian delegation is once again led by Putins aide Vladimir Medinsky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anadolu stated that the talks were preceded by an opening statement from Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who said that the ultimate goal of these negotiations is a ceasefire that would pave the way for peace. Earlier the same day, the Ukrainian delegation held a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his senior adviser Akif Cagatay Klc and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. After the meeting, the delegation proceeded to Istanbul. A source within the Ukrainian delegation stated that, as in the previous round, a brief preparatory meeting took place before the talks between Umierov, Fidan and Medinsky. Sources said that the main topic of the talks is the preparation for a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) The third suspect who is allegedly connected to the murder of Daryus Bryant made his first court appearance on Wednesday. According to CPD, 20-year-old Jaquan Mahone, was taken into custody on Monday in Talbotton, Georgia by the departments fugitive unit. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Third suspect connected to murder of Daryus Bryant in custody Mahone has been charged with three counts of aggravated assault, murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WRBL News 3 was inside the courtroom where Mahone had a brief hearing after he hired a private attorney, but was not available to appear in court on Wednesday. His court appearance has been rescheduled for Friday at 1:30 p.m. RELATED: Father of Daryus Bryant speaks out after second suspect appears in court Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Israel Police during operation in Israel This raises the death toll for Arab-Israelis to 146 since the start of the calendar year; 11 of the deaths were women. Crime-related violence is breaking new records in the Arab sector, as three people were killed in three separate incidents throughout Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, raising the sector death toll to 146 since the start of the calendar year, including 11 women. Assad Kaaba, 51, from Jaffa, was killed near a cafe in the city. Magen David Adom paramedics who arrived at the scene pronounced him dead immediately. Per Ynet, eyewitnesses said he was killed while smoking a hookah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His assailants fired four shots at him from point-blank range. In the area of Arara in the Negev, the bullet-ridden body of 48-year-old Aisha Kaaba was found in a valley near Highway 89. Paramedics pronounced her dead on site, with four bullet wounds to the head. She was married and had children, and worked in order to support her family. Israel Police later said it arrested four suspects in connection with her death: Her son, her brother, and two other family members. Police suspect that the death was the result of a familial conflict. A general view of Jaffa Clock Tower, in Jaffa, Israel (credit: AMIR COHEN/REUTERS) Violence in Arab-Israeli sector And, in Lod, Sliman Abu Ganam was shot dead in his car. The man, around 30 years old, was found by paramedics in a critical state and later died from his wounds. Three have been arrested so far in connection with his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MDA paramedic Mendy Amitai said the team arrived quickly at the site and found it chaotic. Additionally, two other shootings took place on Wednesday morning. A man in his 40s was moderately to seriously injured in Baka al-Gharbiya after walking out of a mosque, and in Jisr e-Zarka, shots were fired at the home of a widow. No injuries were recorded. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) The state has approved close to $80 million in funding for three Kent County housing projects. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board on Tuesday announced it had approved the funding for the housing projects, aimed at creating or preserving housing units across the county. Inside WOODTV.com: Building West Michigan Expanding our housing stock while supporting the needs of Michigans residents is central to our mission, MSHDA CEO and Executive Director Amy Hovey said in a release. These approvals reflect the real progress were making to create stronger communities across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board approved $39 million for HoM Flats in Wyoming. That project is building 200 units at 1401 Prairie Parkway near the intersection of 28th Street and Burlingame Avenue, including 12 accessible units. It is aimed at households making between 40% to 70% the area median income. Its the third phase of HoM Flats at 28 West, a housing development that already has around 400 housing units. Magnus Capital is working on the project in partnership with the city of Wyomings plans for a City Center development. The City Center includes a pedestrian bridge across 28th Street that is currently under construction. Frankie Vs in Wyoming closing to make way for housing project Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MSHDA Board also approved $18.5 million in funding to acquire and rehabilitative Countryside Townhouses, a 146-unit development at 4885 Green Oak Lane off of 48th Street in Kentwood. Countryside Townhouses serves households making 60% AMI or below. A third project, 21 Weston in Grand Rapids, is set to get $21.4 million to rehabilitate 96 units, including 10 accessible units. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Milwaukee residents can expect a chance of rain or thunderstorms through the end of the week. The National Weather Service forecasts a 55% chance of rain in the Milwaukee area July 24 as a storm front is expected to roll in from western Wisconsin. The front will hit Milwaukee in the afternoon and evening of July 24. Still, the National Weather Service is not anticipating any severe weather to accompany the storms this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is plenty of instability to work with just ahead of the front, so you could get some stronger storms, but nothing severe is anticipated at this time," Milwaukee-Sullivan National Weather Service meteorologist Aidan Kuroski said. Southeastern Wisconsin could also see pockets of small isolated showers or thunderstorms July 23. The chance for rain or storms may "linger" through the end of the week, particularly on July 26, Kuroski said. Storms may return again on July 28. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: rain, storms likely in milwaukee this week Interest in the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking investigation has exploded over the past month even as President Donald Trump urged the public and media to move on from a saga he sees as pretty boring. Conspiracy theories and outrage have swirled around Epstein since 2006, when the financier first faced criminal charges related to sexual exploitation of underage girls. He killed himself after more charges were brought in 2019. Fascination with the case reached new heights after Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested she had an Epstein client list on her desk but then didn't release documents with any new information. Here is a timeline of the criminal cases against Epstein and his former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for helping him abuse teenage girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ March 2005: Police in Palm Beach, Florida, begin investigating Epstein after the family of a 14-year-old girl reports she was molested at his mansion. Multiple underage girls, many of them high school students, would later tell police Epstein hired them to give sexual massages. May 2006: Palm Beach police officials sign paperwork to charge Epstein with multiple counts of unlawful sex with a minor, but the countys top prosecutor, State Attorney Barry Krischer, takes the unusual step of sending the case to a grand jury. July 2006: Epstein is arrested after a grand jury indicts him on a single count of soliciting prostitution. The relatively minor charge draws almost immediate attention from critics, including Palm Beach police leaders, who assail Krischer publicly and accuse him of giving Epstein special treatment. The FBI begins an investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2007: Federal prosecutors prepare an indictment against Epstein. But for a year, the money managers lawyers engage in talks with the U.S. attorney in Miami, Alexander Acosta, about a plea bargain that would allow Epstein to avoid a federal prosecution. Epsteins lawyers decry his accusers as unreliable witnesses. June 2008: Epstein pleads guilty to state charges: one count of solicitating prostitution and one count of soliciting prostitution from someone under the age of 18. He is sentenced to 18 months in jail. Under a secret arrangement, the U.S. attorneys office agrees not to prosecute Epstein for federal crimes. Epstein serves most of his sentence in a work-release program that allows him to leave jail during the day to go to his office, then return at night. July 2009: Epstein is released from jail. For the next decade, multiple women who say they are Epsteins victims wage a legal fight to get his federal non-prosecution agreement voided, and hold him and others liable for the abuse. One of Epsteins accusers, Virginia Giuffre, says in her lawsuits that, starting when she was 17, Epstein and his girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, set up sexual encounters with royalty, politicians, academicians, businessmen and other rich and powerful men, including Britains Prince Andrew. All of those men deny the allegations. November 2018: The Miami Herald revisits the handling of Epsteins case in a series of stories focusing partly on the role of Acosta who by this point is President Donald Trumps labor secretary in arranging his unusual plea deal. The coverage renews public interest in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 6, 2019: Epstein is arrested on federal sex trafficking charges after federal prosecutors in New York conclude they arent bound by the terms of the earlier non-prosecution deal. Days later, Acosta resigns as labor secretary amid public outrage over his role in the initial investigation. Aug. 10, 2019: Guards find Epstein dead in his cell at a federal jail in New York City. Investigators conclude he killed himself. July 2, 2020: Federal prosecutors in New York charge Ghislaine Maxwell with sex crimes, saying she helped recruit the underage girls that Epstein sexually abused and sometimes participated in the abuse herself. Dec. 30, 2021: After a monthlong trial, a jury convicts Maxwell of multiple charges, including sex trafficking, conspiracy and transportation of a minor for illegal sexual activity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement June 28, 2022: Maxwell is sentenced to 20 years in prison. January 2024: Public interest in the Epstein case surges after a judge unseals thousands of pages of court records in a civil lawsuit involving one of his victims. Almost all of the information was already public and the dayslong document dump proves disappointing to people who hoped it would spill new secrets about wrongdoing by the rich and powerful. But it fuels demands for even more records to be made public. 2024: Trump, who was in office when Epstein was arrested, suggests during the presidential campaign that hed seek to open the governments Epstein files. February 2025: Attorney General Pam Bondi suggests in a Fox News Channel interview that an Epstein client list is sitting on her desk. The Justice Department distributes binders marked declassified to far-right influencers at the White House, but it quickly becomes clear much of the information had long been in the public domain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 7, 2025: The Justice Department says Epstein didn't maintain a client list and it won't make any more files related to his sex trafficking investigation public. July 17, 2025: The Wall Street Journal describes a sexually suggestive letter that the newspaper says bore Trumps name and was included in a 2003 album for Epsteins 50th birthday. Trump denies writing the letter, calling it false, malicious, and defamatory. The next day Trump sues the paper and media mogul Rupert Murdoch. July 18, 2025: The Trump administration asks a federal court to unseal grand jury transcripts related to Epsteins case in an effort to put a political crisis to rest. July 23, 2025: A judge rejects a Trump administration request to unseal transcripts from the Epstein grand jury investigation in Florida but similar requests for grand jury transcripts in the cases against Epstein and Maxwell in New York remain pending. Meanwhile, a House Oversight subcommittee voted to subpoena the Justice Department for files. The full committee issued a subpoena for Maxwell to testify before committee officials in August. Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran native living Maryland, was mistakenly deported in March to a mega-prison in his home country of El Salvador -- despite a 2019 court order barring his deportation to that country due to fear of persecution -- after the Trump administration claimed he was a member of the criminal gang MS-13, which his family denies. After a series of court battles in which the Trump administration said it could not bring him back despite the Supreme Court ordering them to facilitate his return, Abrego Garcia was indicted for allegedly transporting undocumented migrants within the United States, and brought back to the U.S. to face charges. Here is how the case has unfolded. March 15, 2025 The Trump administration, as part of its immigration crackdown, deports three planeloads of alleged migrant gang members to El Salvador, where they are incarcerated in the notorious CECOT mega-prison under an agreement with the Salvadoran government. The alleged gang members include Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whose protected legal status precludes him from being deported to that country. Presidency Of El Salvador/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock - PHOTO: Salvadoran police officers escort alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua recently deported by the U.S. government to be imprisoned in the Terrorism Confinement Center prison, in San Luis Talpa, El Salvador, obtained March 16, 2025. March 18, 2025 Families of several of the deported men tell ABC News that their detained relatives have no criminal record in the United States -- a fact that's acknowledged by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official, who nonetheless says that "the lack of specific information about each individual actually highlights the risk they pose" and "demonstrates that they are terrorists with regard to whom we lack a complete profile." April 1, 2025 In a sworn declaration as part of a lawsuit brought by Abrego Garcia's attorneys, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official says Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador as a result of an "administrative error" -- but that he is still under a "final order of removal" for deportation, after the government rescinded his protected legal status due to his purported gang ties as alleged by a confidential police informant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say that on March 12, Abrego Garcia was detained by ICE officers who "informed him that his immigration status had changed" due to the MS-13 allegations, after which he was transferred to a detention center in Texas and then deported to El Salvador. U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland via AP - PHOTO: Undated photo of a man identified by Jennifer Vasquez Sura as her husband, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, is led by force by guards through the Terrorism Confinement Center in Tecoluca, El Salvador. April 4, 2025 U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis, at a hearing in Maryland, grants a preliminary injunction and orders the government to "facilitate and effectuate" the return of Abrego Garcia to the United States by midnight on April 7. Asked by Judge Xinis under what authority law enforcement officers seized Abrego Garcia, DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni says he does not have the answer, telling the judge, "Your honor, my answer to a lot of these questions is going to be frustrating and I'm also frustrated that I have no answers for you on a lot of these questions." April 5, 2025 A day after the hearing, the Justice Department places DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni on indefinite paid leave over a "failure to zealously advocate" for the government's interests. April 7, 2025 Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issues a temporary administrative stay putting off Judge Xinis' midnight deadline for the government to return Abrego Garcia from El Salvador, in order to give the court more time to consider the arguments presented by both sides. April 8, 2025 After the Trump administration, in a court filing, argues that a judge can't demand Abrego Garcia's return because a federal court can't order a president to engage in foreign diplomacy, an attorney for Abrego Garcia tells ABC News he believes the Supreme Court will rule in his client's favor. April 9, 2025 In an interview with ABC News, Abrego Garcia's wife, a U.S. citizen, denies the Trump administration's allegation that her husband is a member of the criminal gang MS-13. Leah Millis/Reuters - PHOTO: Jennifer Vasquez Sura, wife of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, speaks during a press conference on the day of a hearing in the case related to Kilmar Abrego Garcia outside U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, Maryland, April 15, 2025. April 10, 2025 The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rules that Judge Xinis "properly requires the Government to 'facilitate' Abrego Garcia's release from custody in El Salvador and to ensure that his case is handled as it would have been had he not been improperly sent to El Salvador." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The intended scope of the term 'effectuate' in the District Court's order is, however, unclear, and may exceed the District Court's authority," the court writes. "The District Court should clarify its directive, with due regard for the deference owed to the Executive Branch in the conduct of foreign affairs." The Trump administration, interpreting the ruling as prohibiting the district court from ordering the executive branch to take any action that would violate the separation of powers, celebrates the order as a victory for the administration. April 11, 2025 Saying "the Supreme Court has spoken quite clearly" that Abrego Garcia should be released from El Salvador, Judge Xinis slams the government's handling of the case and orders the Justice Department to provide her with "daily updates" on Abrego Garcia's status and their efforts to bring him back. April 12, 2025 A State Department official, in response to Judge Xinis' demand for daily updates, tells the judge that Abrego Garcia is "alive and secure" in El Salvador's CECOT prison, but provides no information about their efforts to return him to the United States. April 14, 2025 Attorney General Pam Bondi, in an Oval Office meeting with President Trump and the visiting El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, says that Abrego Garcia's return is "up to El Salvador," after which Bukele says, "I don't have the power to return him to the United States." Win McNamee/Getty Images - PHOTO: President Donald Trump meets with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, April 14, 2025. April 15, 2025 Judge Xinis, in a hearing, takes Justice Department attorneys to task over the Trump administration's inaction and orders government officials to testify under oath through expedited discovery in order to resolve Abrego Garcia's wrongful deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the hearing, a DHS official says the Trump administration is "prepared to facilitate Abrego Garcia's presence in the United States ... if he presents at a port of entry" -- but that DHS does not have the authority to forcibly extract him "from the domestic custody of a foreign sovereign nation." April 16, 2025 The Department of Justice files notice that it will appeal Judge Xinis' ruling ordering the government to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return, and releases two documents that were previously used to allegedly tie Abrego Garcia to MS-13. The developments come on the same day that DHS, in a social media post, shares court records showing that Abrego Garcia's wife had a month-long order of protection against him in 2021, in which she cited being slapped, hit with an object, and being detained against her will. Meanwhile, Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, where Abrego Garcia and his family live, travels to El Salvador in the hope of meeting with Abrego Garcia to get answers about his deportation and check on his condition. April 17, 2025 Slamming the government for "asserting a right to stash away residents of this country in foreign prisons without the semblance of due process," the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit denies the Trump administration's effort to appeal Judge Xinis' order requiring it to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Late in the day, Sen. Van Hollen shares a photo on social media of him meeting with Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. Abrego Garcia's wife is told that the meeting was set up by El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, a source close to the family tells ABC News. Sen. Chris Van Hollen/ X - PHOTO: Sen. Chris Van Hollen shares photo of meeting Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. April 18, 2025 Sen. Van Hollen, at a news conference following his return from El Salvador, provides details of his meeting with Abrego Garcia, saying that authorities brought Abrego Garcia to his hotel for the meeting and that Abrego Garcia told him he had been transferred nine days ago to another facility and was no longer being held at the CECOT mega-prison -- although he still has no access to news and no ability to communicate with the outside world. April 20, 2025 Trump administration border czar Tom Homan tells ABC News' "This Week" co-anchor Jonathan Karl that the administration properly used the Alien Enemies Act when it deported Abrego Garcia. Sen. Van Hollen, discussing Abrego Garcia in a separate "This Week" interview, tells Karl, "I am not defending the man. I'm defending the rights of this man to due process." April 21, 2025 The Salvadoran government rejects a request from four Democratic lawmakers to visit Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. April 22, 2025 Judge Xinis, overruling objections raised by the Trump administration, orders the government to more fully answer and respond to discovery requests from Abrego Garcia's attorneys. April 23, 2025 Judge Xinis, at the Trump administration's request, temporarily pauses discovery in the case for seven days. April 29, 2025 In an exclusive interview with ABC News to mark his 100th day in office, President Trump says he "could" secure the return of Abrego Garcia, and "if he were the gentleman that you say he is, I would do that" -- before adding, "I'm not the one making this decision." April 30, 2025 Multiple sources tell ABC News that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been in touch with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele about Abrego Garcia, although details of their contact are not immediately clear. Tennessee Highway Patrol - PHOTO: Kilmar Abrego Garcia speaks with a Tennessee state trooper on the side of I-40 in 2022.\ May 2, 2025 Newly released video shows the moments when Abrego Garcia was pulled over by state troopers in Tennessee in 2022. May 6, 2025 Sources tell ABC News that the Justice Department has spoken with a convicted felon in an Alabama prison about potential connections to the 2022 Tennessee traffic stop involving Abrego Garcia. May 7, 2025 Judge Xinis orders attorneys for Abrego Garcia and the DOJ to submit briefs by May 12 and schedules a hearing for May 16 after the Trump administration invokes the rarely used state secrets privilege to shield information about its handling of the matter. May 8, 2025 Attorneys for Abrego Garcia, saying they're "still in the dark" after deposing three government officials in the case, ask Judge Xinis to authorize the depositions of three additional officials. May 13, 2025 Lawyers for Abrego Garcia, in a court filing, push back on the Trump administration's invocation of the state secrets privilege, saying that the government has produced no evidence that it's made "the slightest effort" to facilitate his release. May 16, 2025 Under orders from Judge Xinis following a hearing on the matter, the Trump administration releases Secretary of State Marco Rubio's May 5 declaration supporting the invocation of the state secrets privilege in the case. Rubio, in the declaration, says that the disclosure of certain information requested by Abrego Garcia's attorneys "could be expected to cause significant harm to the foreign relations interests" and national security interests of the U.S. ABC News - PHOTO: Kilmar Abrego Garcia is placed in the back seat of a truck by ICE agents after arriving in Nashville, Tenn., June 6, 2025. June 6, 2025 Abrego Garcia is brought back to the U.S. to face criminal charges for allegedly participating in a yearslong conspiracy to haul undocumented migrants from Texas to the interior of the United States. Attorney General Pam Bondi, after the administration had said for months that it could not bring him back, says, "Our government presented El Salvador with an arrest warrant and they agreed to return him to our country." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego Garcia makes his initial court appearance in the Middle District of Tennessee, answering "Yes, I understand" in Spanish when U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes asks him if he understands the charges against him. June 9, 2025 Arguing that Abrego Garcia poses "a serious risk of flight," federal prosecutors in Tennessee ask Judge Holmes for a pre-trial detention hearing in his human smuggling case. The filing comes a day after Abrego Garcia's attorneys, in a separate filing in federal court in Maryland, argue that their wrongful deportation case is not over until the government is "held accountable" for "its blatant, willful, and persistent violations of court orders at excruciating cost to Abrego Garcia and his family." June 10, 2025 Calling Abrego Garcia's attorneys' request to continue their Maryland case "desperate and disappointing," Justice Department lawyers argue in a court filing that the Trump administration complied with the court's order to facilitate Abrego Garcia's return. June 11, 2025 Attorneys for Abrego Garcia ask Judge Xinis to impose sanctions on the Trump administration for what they call "repeated violations of its discovery obligations" in Abrego Garcia's wrongful deportation case. June 13, 2025 One week after being brought back to the U.S. from detention in El Salvador, Abrego Garcia pleads not guilty to human smuggling charges at his arraignment in Tennessee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Holmes, after hearing arguments over Abrego Garcia's pre-trial detention, says she will wait to issue a decision on whether he should be released from custody pending trial. June 22, 2025 Judge Holmes denies the government's motion to detain Abrego Garcia while he awaits trial on human smuggling charges -- but acknowledges that, if released, he will likely be placed in ICE custody due to an immigration detainer the government has on him. June 25, 2025 Judge Holmes outlines Abrego Garcia's conditions of release for his release on bond, but he remains in custody after the judge orders his attorneys and attorneys for the Justice Department to file briefs on whether the government has the ability to prevent his deportation while he awaits trial. June 26, 2025 Abrego Garcia's attorneys file an emergency motion with Judge Xinis seeking to have him returned to Maryland as he awaits trial, but a government attorney tells the judge the administration will seek to deport him to a country other than his native El Salvador. July 2, 2025 Attorneys for Abrego Garcia argue in a court filing that he could "face persecution or torture if removed directly to various other countries," saying that he had been subjected to severe mistreatment while he was held in CECOT. July 7, 2025 Judge Xinis, in a hearing, orders the Trump administration to produce witnesses who can testify about the government's plans should Abrego Garcia be released from custody in Tennessee. July 10, 2025 On the second day of a hearing in Maryland, an ICE official testifies about the process the government might undertake to deport Abrego Garcia should he be released from custody in Tennessee -- but the official says that he himself has had no involvement in Abrego Garcia's case and little experience handling similar deportation processes. July 11, 2025 On Day 3 of a hearing in Maryland, Abrego Garcia's legal team asks Judge Xinis to order that he not be removed from the United States without at least 72 hours notice should he be released on bond from detention in Tennessee. July 16, 2025 A federal judge in Tennessee says he expects to rule within the next week on Abrego Garcia's pre-trial detention, after government attorneys argue during a hearing that Abrego Garcia poses a public danger and flight risk too great to allow him to be released on bail. July 21, 2025 Abrego Garcia's attorneys ask a federal judge for a 30-day stay if he is ordered released from custody while awaiting trial. July 23, 2025 Judge Xinis orders the Trump administration to return Abrego Garcia to Maryland upon his release from criminal custody, shortly before a magistrate judge in Tennessee, responding to Abrego Garcia's attorneys' request, pauses Abrego Garcia's release for 30 days. Aug. 19, 2025 Abrego Garcia's attorneys file a motion seeking to dismiss the Tennessee criminal charges against him, accusing federal prosecutors of "vindictive and selective prosecution." Aug. 22, 2024 Abrego Garcia is released from criminal custody in Tennessee into the custody of his brother in Maryland, with what sources say are orders to report to the ICE office in Baltimore on Monday morning. The Trump administration may seek to deport Abrego Garcia to Uganda despite the government of Costa Rica indicating it is willing to accept him "upon the conclusion of any criminal sentence he may serve in the U.S," according to sources. Aug. 25, 2024 Abrego Garcia is taken into immigration custody upon checking in with ICE at its office in Baltimore and is transferred to a detention center in Virginia, where his attorneys say ICE has notified them that he may be deported to Uganda after he rejected a plea deal to be deported to his preferred destination of Costa Rica in exchange for pleading guilty to human smuggling charges. Judge Xinis says at a habeas hearing that the federal government is "absolutely forbidden" from deporting him for the time being. As a Tennessean who has spent the last 40 years advocating on behalf of individuals living with intellectual disability and their families, I believe that, in many ways, our state is a leader in protecting these vulnerable individuals, including when they come in contact with the criminal justice system. But despite Tennessees general support of those with intellectual disability, the State is poised to execute a man with an intellectual disability on August 5. The only alternative is for Gov. Bill Lee to intervene and commute Byron Blacks death sentence to life imprisonment. This must happen. Even the State acknowledges Byron Black's disability Byron Blacks intellectual disability is not open to debate. Every expert who has evaluated him agrees that he meets the diagnostic criteria, based on IQ test scores he's taken over the years, as well as a wealth of expert and anecdotal evidence documenting his adaptive deficits dating back to early childhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A leading intellectual disability expert hired by the State has acknowledged that Mr. Black is a person with an intellectual disability. And in 2022, the State, through the Davidson County District Attorney General, also stipulated that Mr. Black has an intellectual disability. Tennessee Death Row Inmates: Byron Lewis Blacks prison mug taken in 1997. So why is Tennessee still planning to execute this man who is part of a group of people whose vulnerability and reduced moral culpability make their execution a violation of the Eighth Amendment, as the U.S. Supreme Court has held? Because Byron Black has been too diligent in seeking to prove his disability. This is the cruel irony of Mr. Blacks case. After the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the 2002 case of Atkins v. Virginia that executing those with intellectual disability is unconstitutional, Mr. Black promptly sought to assert an intellectual disability claim. In 2004, the court held a hearing and rejected his claim based on inaccurate and outdated standards that have long since been discredited. In lieu of a new hearing, Gov. Lee must commute Byron Black's execution In 2021, continuing its tradition of protecting disability rights, Tennessee passed a groundbreaking law providing access to a hearing for people sentenced to death who also have claims of intellectual disability. But Byron Black is now being denied this hearing because his attorneys presented his intellectual disability to the court two decades ago, under an inaccurate standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: All Tennesseans deserve a second chance. Congress could make it possible Nothing about Mr. Blacks intellectual disability has changed; only the erroneous, outdated standard has. Others on death row have had access to relief because their attorneys were less diligent and never brought the issue to a court on their behalf until now. This Kafkaesque ruling that denied Mr. Black a hearing ignored both the changed opinion of one of the States key experts from 2004, who now agrees that Mr. Black has an intellectual disability, and the States stipulation to Mr. Blacks diagnosis. Whatever procedural rules may preclude judicial relief, the truth is clear: Executing Byron Black would violate the U.S. Constitution and Tennessee law. It would also result in a permanent stain on our states moral character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the months since he received an execution warrant, Mr. Black has repeatedly asked the courts to revisit their refusal to consider the evidence of his intellectual disability. All such efforts have failed as the courts point to that 2004 hearing under an outdated definition as a basis to condone an unconstitutional execution. Opinion: Tennessee should invest more in prison education. Here's why Fortunately, there is still time for Gov. Lee to step in. On July 10, Mr. Black filed a clemency application asking for his sentence to be commuted to life in prison. If ever there was a time for the governor to bestow mercy, this is it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in doing so, Gov. Lee would ensure that Tennessee does not knowingly and intentionally violate the law by executing a man with intellectual disability. Donna DeStefano Donna DeStefano has been a direct support worker and teacher of children and adults with intellectual and other disabilities, as well as an advocate for people with disabilities, for over forty years. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Byron Black is intellectually disabled. TN can't execute him | Opinion SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) In the July 22 Tom Green County meeting, city commissioners approved continued assistance for those who were impacted by the July 4 floods. Flood damage relief for landowners and residents in rural areas, which is provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, will be used to improve drainage and rural roads. This will protect our roads and culverts from future washouts and RCS will pay up to 75 percent of the construction costs, said Shawn Nanny, the Precinct 4 Commissioner. It is saving our taxpayers a substantial amount of money. Not only repairing what has been washed out in the recent flooding events, but building them better so they wont wash out in future flooding events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If any Tom Green County residents still have debris or items that need to be removed from their residence, contact Rick Bacon, the Precinct 3 Commissioner. His contact information, along with all of the other commissioners, can be found on the Tom Green County 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com. A Colombian tourists trip to Walt Disney World turned into a trip to jail after she was arrested Monday for allegedly pushing a teenager while trying to get a better view of a parade, according to records. Martha Lucia Zapata Echeverri, 51, was taken into custody on a charge of child abuse after the incident earlier that day at Disneys Magic Kingdom theme park, records show. Her attorney, Bryan Farinas, said via email she was in the U.S. on a tourist visa and was visiting for her daughters 15th birthday. Orange County Sheriffs deputies separated Zapata Echeverri and the victim and brought them to the parks security office, where a deputy spoke to both about what happened, her arrest affidavit shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 17-year-old victim told the deputy she had been standing on the sidewalk at the parks Main Street to watch a parade when Zapata Echeverri put her hand on her trying to make space, causing her to ask the woman not to touch her in Spanish. She said when she moved back to help another park guest get past her, Zapata Echeverri grabbed her by the arm and pulled her to the side, the affidavit said. The affidavit notes the victim had a small scrape and bruise on her arm and that she was the only one injured of the two. It also notes there were no independent witnesses or security footage of the incident. Zapata Echeverri said she was following her daughter to try and get to the front of the crowd to watch the parade when the victim pushed into her, saying it was her spot. Zapata Echeverri then demonstrated to the deputy how she pushed the victim back, the report said. When asked how the victim got nail marks, Zapata Echeverris answer was unclear and she made a pushing gesture with an open hand, according to the affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapata Echeverri has pleaded not guilty. Farinas says she has posted bond and is in the process of being released. He also said the situation has been mischaracterized. Based on the information that we have reviewed, Ms. Zapata Echeverri was confronted and physically pushed by the alleged victim, he said. We are confident that once all the facts have been fully evaluated, it will be clear that there was no criminal intent and no abusive conduct by Ms. Zapata Echeverri. Zapata Echeverri has no prior criminal history and has been cooperative with law enforcement, Farinas said. Amongst the most touristy beach towns in California, Laguna Beach has to be one of the most popular. With an annual influx of an estimated six million visitors, the Orange County hamlet gets overrun by humans and particularly in the summer months. With such a high volume of humans, the beaches can get quite crowded. And unfortunately, to the detriment of both residents and visitors, these tourists periodically attempt to push the boundaries implemented by the heavily-regulated Laguna Beach officials. For instance, no smoking or vaping, e-z up beach tents, loud exhaust, etc. Some of the less byzantine rules in Laguna, however, are there for everyones safety. Like warning signs issued by lifeguards, which the crew of visitors blatantly ignored in the video above, and then paid the price. The posse descends a staircase to the beach, one with a sign saying that its off-limits due to high tides and heavy swell. And you can guess what happens next mother nature takes the wheel, and the squad gets smoked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According the anonymous video submitted to the Instagram account, lagunabeach.unfiltered: CLOSED SIGNS ARE THERE FOR A REASON.. Public SAFETY is the number one priority of the @lagunabeachlifeguards and they know what they are doing! Please listen and respect their advice and instructions. Also respect their posted signs. IT MIGHT SAVE YOUR LIFE! Related: Sneaker Wave Sweeps Away Tourists in Laguna Beach (Video) Previously, on the last episode of tourists in Laguna Beach behaving ignorantly, a group of visitors was warned against an incoming tide at Aliso Beach, coupled with a healthy summer south swell, and their belongings being too close to the shoreline. In that scene, those people, too, shouldve heeded the warning issued to them by locals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And its not just the safety issue. As Greg Viviani, aka SoLagLocal, explained: All that trash or personal items, they end up in the ocean and harm marine life. A wave comes up and wipes everything out. They dont realize it. We, as locals, try and warn them. But they only move back, like, two feet. And Im telling them, the water is going to go all the way into the parking lot. Its funny, but its also shitty. All that stuff is going to end up in the ocean. Were watermen and we love the ocean. Summer is still chugging along in Laguna Beach; tourists beware. Related: Gargantuan Wave Detonates on Laguna Beach (Video) Tourists Ignore Warnings, Get Smoked by Large Wave (video) first appeared on Surfer on Jul 23, 2025 WEBSTER, N.Y. (WROC) For the first time in more than two decades, the Town of Webster is moving forward with a full reassessment of property values a process officials say is long overdue but left many residents with more questions than answers after a packed community meeting Tuesday night. The reassessment will bring property values in line with current market conditions and unfold over the next two years. Town Supervisor Tom Flaherty said the average home in Webster is assessed at roughly half of what it would sell for on the open market today. Your house might appraise and sell for $400,000, Flaherty told residents. That house in Webster right now is probably assessed for $200,000 because we havent done this in 20 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While assessments may double, Flaherty emphasized that this does not mean residents property taxes will follow suit. Your assessed value probably will double, but the tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value will be cut in half, he explained. Its simple math the tax that you pay stays the same. The town has hired KLW Municipal to manage the reassessment. The firm has worked with municipalities across New York and is being partially funded through $400,000 in federal COVID-19 relief funds. Still, despite the detailed presentation, some residents left the meeting uncertain about what the changes would mean for them. Several declined to speak on camera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wonder if when I spoke, I might have added to the anxiety, Flaherty said. But in all seriousness, the best way that were going to assuage that anxiety is going to be granular, boots-on-the-ground, one-on-one conversations. The reassessment process will run through mid-2027, including data collection, field reviews, and opportunities for residents to meet individually with assessors. To help residents navigate the process, the town has launched a dedicated website with FAQs and information about potential exemptions such as those based on age, veteran status, or income level. The next public meeting is scheduled for Sept. 25 and will focus specifically on available exemptions. For researching what exemptions you could qualify for on your house: based on age, veteran; theres a myriad of reasons why you could get an exemption, Flaherty said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Flahertys term will end before the reassessment is finalized, he said he intends to remain involved to help ensure residents understand the process. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. Sunshine, heat, and humidity have returned to Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas Tuesday afternoon, and will continue through much of the work week. A Heat Advisory has been issued for all of Northwest Missouri and the eastern fringe of Kansas through Thursday evening. Heat index values of 100+ degrees are forecast for the next several afternoons, increasing the risk for heat related illness. Between periods of sunshine, a few spotty t-storm chances also remain in the forecast, with the best opportunity for t-storms arriving by Thursday. Most will remain dry Tuesday afternoon and evening, with partly to mostly sunny skies and a 20% to 30% chance of isolated showers and t-storms. Temperatures will cool from the low 90s late Tuesday, into the mid 70s overnight, with light southerly breezes. Sunny, humid, and very hot conditions build across the area Wednesday, with afternoon highs in the low to mid 90s and triple digit heat indices. Periods of cloud cover, and a 40% chance of scattered t-storms returns Thursday. High temperatures Thursday will run in the upper 80s to low 90s, although heat index values will remain high. Charleston, S.C. (WCBD) Its shark week on TV, but here off the east coast, sharks arent just on the screen. The waters off the South Carolina coast are seeing more fins than usual. The rise in local sightings and encounters has sparked concern among coastal communities and beachgoers in the Lowcountry. Recreational beach attendance has been on the rise, increasing human shark interactions, by bringing in more people to the sharks natural habitat. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Marine Biologist, Bryan Frazer said although the shark population is on the rise, thats not the reason for the increase of sightings. With the warmer water temperatures, it is natural to see them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharks have always used our ocean waters. The beachfront area tends to congregate bait, thats why sharks are there, said Frazier. Charlestons Coast is home to a number of different shark species, about 17 different kinds. The warm waters and diverse fish population make it a great habitat for sharks. Some of the most abundant ones are small sharks, things like Atlantic Sharpness and Bonnet Heads. But then we get species that are in higher abundance like the larger sharks: Blacktip Sharks, Sandbar Sharks. said Frazer. South Carolina ranks among the top 10 states for reported shark bites. From 2012 to 2021, there was a total of 45 reported attacks, according to the Florida Museum of Natural Historys International Shark Attack File. In June, 2 shark bites were reported in Hilton Head Island, both were non-fatal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frazer explained it might seem like attacks are going up, however theyre still extremely rare, and is encouraging people to enjoy the beaches without worry. The risk of getting bitten by a shark in South Carolina is extremely low. Two, three, four bites a year. If you think about how many people are in the water during the summer, thats an incredibly low risk said Frazer. If you do want to limit your chances of an encounter, there are a few steps you can take. Do not swim near schools of fish, if you see pelicans diving, that is an indication of bait. Do not wear flashy objects in the water because it may look like a fish swimming, to a shark. As well as do not swim at dusk or dawn. Shark Week is all week long, Sunday July 20th to Saturday July 26th. To see and hear more from shark week experts, the WCBD+ App will be streaming shark week specials everyday, WCBD + Streaming TV App Advertisement 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 WCBD News 2. An internet trade group asked the Supreme Court on Wednesday to block Mississippi from enforcing its age-verification law against nine major social media platforms. NetChoice asked the justices for an emergency intervention after the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last week without explanation lifted a block that had protected platforms like Facebook and Instagram from the new requirements. In a one-sentence order, the Fifth Circuit upended the First Amendment rights of Mississippi citizens seeking to access fully protected speech across social media websites, NetChoice wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The existing block had prevented Mississippi from enforcing the law against nine NetChoice members covered by the law: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, Snapchat, Reddit, Pinterest, Nextdoor and Dreamwidth. Justice Samuel Alito, who by default handles emergency requests arising from the 5th Circuit, ordered Mississippi to respond within a week. Alito could then act on the request alone or refer it to the full court for a vote. Mississippis law requires social media companies to verify users age and require minors to have express consent from a parent or guardian to use the platform. Covered websites must also work to mitigate minors exposure to harmful material, and violations carry a $10,000 fine. It was originally set to go into effect on July 1, 2024, the same day the Supreme Court decided NetChoices First Amendment challenges to Florida and Texas laws that regulate social media companies over accusations of political censorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Florida and Texas disputes involve what is known as a facial challenge, meaning NetChoice argues the laws are unconstitutional across the board. The Supreme Courts decision sent the cases back to lower courts with guidance for how to analyze the laws. In Mississippi, however, the judges most recent injunction did not block the states law facially. An appointee of the younger former President Bush, U.S. District Judge Halil Suleyman Ozerden only blocked the states law as applied to NetChoices members, which involves a different First Amendment analysis. NetChoice argued the 5th Circuits lack of explanation in lifting the judges order is sufficient reason on its own for the Supreme Court to intervene. And regardless, the trade group says the block is needed to protect free speech as the litigation progresses. Yet, in stark contrast to the two extensively reasoned district court opinions in this case, the Fifth Circuits order (entered less than an hour after Respondent submitted a reply brief) explains nothing. This is particularly troubling in the context of a decision with sudden and sweeping implications for accessing fully protected speech, NetChoice wrote in the application. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hill has reached out to the Mississippi attorney generals office for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Orting is getting a new mayor for the first time in eight years, and the race is sparking conversations about safety, growth, infrastructure, traffic and more. Josh Penner the current mayor of the city with about 9,000 residents was elected to the Washington State House of Representatives earlier this year. He represents District 31, which stretches across East Pierce County and parts of southeastern King County. Since January 2025, he has served in both roles concurrently, but will step down from his mayoral position in January 2026 to focus on his legislative job. That means voters need to select his replacement. Who is running for Orting mayor? Five candidates are running to fill Penners seat in the primary election on Aug. 5. The two candidates with the most votes will move onto the general election in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The five candidates are: Scott Drennen , a former Orting city council member. He served on the council from 1995 to 2005 and again from 2006 to 2021. He also served on the public works committee and Ortings planning commission. Penner has endorsed Drennen to fill his seat. Stanley Holland , an Orting city council member. Holland used to serve on the Orting School Board and now serves on the board of directors for the Puget Sound Educational Service District 121 and was in leadership roles for the Orting Lions Club. Gregory Hogan , an Orting city council member who has served as deputy mayor four times. He was chairman of the Orting School Board from 1991 to 2004 and served on the citys planning commission from 2013 to 2018. Chris Moore , an Orting city council member who has also served on the citys public safety and public works committees. Moore is also chair of the Pierce County Flood Zone Control District Advisory Committee. Jim Rutt, who has 42 years of experience in transportation management. He also has experience running two very successful small businesses. The News Tribune reached out to Moore and did not receive a response by deadline. The other four candidates spoke to The News Tribune about their vision for the city. Safety in Orting When The News Tribune asked the candidates what their priorities would be if elected mayor, all of them immediately mentioned safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drennen and Hogan both said they would support the Orting Police Department, and Hogan said he would like to see more officers. I would try to maintain and increase our public safety, Hogan said. [A police officer shortage] has always been an ongoing challenge in Orting and we would want to watch that. Holland said he would like to see both police and citizens play a more active role in keeping the city safe. A picture of Orting mayoral candidate Stanley Holland. I think we should have a safe city for people to walk the park, walk the neighborhood, Holland said. More people, more police patrolling, having police actually walk in the community, just make sure the citys safer. We can have some neighborhood watch going on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rutt also wants to see an increased police presence, and said he would make the city safer by fixing problems that pose safety hazards. [My first priority] would be the safety of our citizens and our young adults and our school children updating the crosswalks, which are in dire need of it, Rutt said. Working with the local police department to see how we can improve mobility and making more frequent stops inside the housing developments, giving the citizens a sense of security. A picture of Orting mayoral candidate Jim Rutt. Rutt said Orting has a larger-than-average number of pedestrians and bicyclists due to the large number of trails, and he said its important to keep the city a safe space for them. We have an individual that was hit at a crosswalk that wasnt completely lit the flashing yellow lights were outdated, Rutt said. And we had people who rode their bikes across the crosswalks that have been hit. Growth and infrastructure in Orting Orting is rapidly growing, and the city has several infrastructure projects underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the projects is a $9 million foot bridge that starts from the Foothills Trail and ends near Rocky Road Northeast over state Route 162. Construction started this year. The bridge is meant to help residents evacuate on foot when Mount Rainier erupts. Another project will bring improvements to Kansas Street between Coe Lane Southwest and Harman Way South. According to the citys website, the project is in the design phase and will involve rebuilding the road system, improving paved areas and making sidewalks wider. Construction is expected to start in 2025. Hogan said both of these projects would be a priority for him. I would make sure that those projects are going now and the ones that are coming up are properly managed and, at the same time, meet the needs of the citizens of Orting, Hogan said. A picture of Orting mayoral candidate Greg Hogan. Another challenge in Orting is the citys wastewater treatment plant. Penner told The News Tribune the plant is 30 years old and needs an upgrade, but that it would cost $30 to $40 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drennen said that upgrade would be his first priority as mayor. He mentioned his experience working for the King County Department of Natural Resources, where he worked with wastewater treatment plants for years. A picture of Orting mayoral candidate Scott Drennen. I got involved with the design and construction of the first upgraded treatment plant for the City of Orting upgrading our water system, so Ive been involved in a lot of the reservoir upgrades, Drennen said. My first challenge is going to be to work with the upgrades of our wastewater treatment plant and to control those costs and the startup of that project to see it to fruition. Drennen also said he has made it his priority to keep up with Ortings growth throughout his career. I have participated in so many different levels to make things happen with where we are today, Drennen said. To building parks, to building city halls, to public works buildings seeing these projects to fruition. Traffic in Orting Hogan and Holland were the candidates most concerned with reducing traffic congestion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The traffics horrendous and its quite a bit, Hogan said. Hogan said that Orting depends on the Washington State Department of Transportation because they control state Route 162, which runs through town. Theyre talking about three lanes with a turn lane down on 162, which, in my opinion, would be nice because most people wont let people out everybodys in a hurry, Hogan said. He said the interchange at state Route 410 and state Route 162 is the biggest issue. We need to somehow get flow in town or out of town some roundabouts going in and some other plans looking at trying to alleviate drive-through traffic in Orting, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holland called the traffic horrible and said he would prioritize transportation. The biggest challenge is the commute. Orting is a bedroom community, so a lot of people work outside of the city, Holland said. So we [would] address this traffic by having Sound Transit, Pierce Transit, getting a bus out here that will pick up the commuters at this train station and drop them off back home. It would get some of the cars off the street. Rising costs in Orting Penner told The News Tribune that Ortings main challenges are rising costs and infrastructure. The cost of public safety, the cost of infrastructure is rising tremendously faster than taxpayers have the ability to pay for, Penner said. Orting is not adjacent to any other city, so a lot of the infrastructure challenges that affect Orting require partnership within the county or Washington state. Rep. Joshua Penner Penner named state Route 162 as an example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can manage the infrastructure within the city getting to the city, we have very little control over, Penner said. Were affected by these infrastructure systems that we dont have direct authority over. When The News Tribune asked Penner about public safety, he said he thinks hes seen an improvement in Ortings public safety. When I became mayor, there was quite a bit more drug-related issues in Orting, Penner said. We actively took a role in shutting down drug houses and that required a collaborative effort between our police department, code enforcement, our legal team and our administrative team and even our public works team. Penner said the Orting Police Department is fully staffed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We already spend roughly 60% of our general fund on public safety, Penner said. I know several of the candidates ideas are significantly adding numbers to the police department, but theyre going to have to figure out how to make that work within the budget. When The News Tribune asked Penner what his advice will be to his replacement, he said creating a strong team is key. Orting is just big enough that you cant know everyone, but still small enough that everyone can know you, Penner said. Focus on figuring out your culture the first year and build the team around you to solve the problems. You cant know everything as mayor you have to have a good team around you. For information on registering to vote, drop boxes and more, visit the Pierce County Elections page at piercecountywa.gov/328/Elections. Editors note: An earlier version of this story misstated whether Mayor Josh Penner endorsed a candidate in the race. Penner endorsed Drennen. TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) Two people are dead and a man is in custody after an AMBER Alert was issued for a young child Tuesday morning. Initially, police in Topeka, Kansas, said the toddler had been abducted last week by an unknown suspect and was believed to be in imminent danger. A later update from authorities said the vehicle belonging to the boys mother was also missing. Early Tuesday afternoon, authorities said the missing child had been found safe, roughly 400 miles away in Illinois with the suspect. Christopher Barnshaw, 32, was arrested by police in Mattoon, Illinois, in connection with the toddlers reported abduction. As of Tuesday, he was being held for alleged aggravated kidnapping and unlawful use of a weapon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preliminary autopsy results released for 9-year-old in AMBER Alert turned homicide investigation Nexstars WCIA reports the toddler was found safe in the backseat of the vehicle Barnshaw was driving, which matched the description of the car missing from the childs Topeka home. During a press conference shortly after the child was found, Topeka Police said a homicide investigation had been launched in connection with the AMBER Alert. Police Chief Chris Vallejo explained that officers were called to a welfare check at a Topeka home Tuesday morning. There, a man and a woman were found dead. The 2-year-old child who lived at the home was not located, prompting the AMBER Alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Vallejo, police are still investigating the cause of death for the two individuals, whose identities have not been released. (Photo By: Savannah Meier) (Photo By: Savannah Meier) (Photo By: Savannah Meier) (Photo By: Savannah Meier) This is a tragedy, and I know the residents around this area are concerned about this, about this event, Vallejo said. Its not something that happens every day, and I feel for them. I just want them to know that we are going to bring this investigation to its full conclusion and we will bring justice for the victims with whatever information we found out and there is no ongoing threat and the Topeka Police Department and supporting departments are on this case. What relationship Barnshaw has with the victims, if any, was not shared by police on Tuesday. Authorities said late Tuesday they were working to reunite the child with a family member. Advertisement 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. Transgender women athletes will now face exclusion from U.S. Olympic and Paralympic activities, according to new policy from the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). In our world of elite sport, these elements of fairness demand that we reconcile athlete inclusion and athlete opportunity, reads a statement on the USOPC website. The only way to do that for all genders, and specifically for those who are transgender, is to rely on real data and science-based evidence rather than ideology. That means making science-based decisions, sport by sport and discipline by discipline, within both the Olympic and Paralympic movements. A Monday note on a page about transgender athlete participation in sport reads please refer to the USOPC athlete safety policy and links a document, a portion of which states it will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders with oversight responsibilities to guarantee that women have a fair and safe competition environment consistent with Executive Order 14201. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Executive Order 14201, titled Keeping Men Out of Womens Sports, President Trump stated the U.S. is against male competitive participation in womens sports as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth. The order bars trans athletes from competing in girls and womens sports. The new policy was first reported by The New York Times. Trump said in February that his administration will not let transgender athletes compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. A USOPC spokesperson said the organization notified its community of stakeholders of the new policy via email on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As many of you are aware, the Administration issued Executive Order 14201 earlier this year aimed at protecting womens sport. Since then, the USOPC has engaged in a series of respectful and constructive conversations with federal officials, USOPC President Gene Sykes and CEO Sarah Hirshland wrote in the email, a copy of which was obtained by The Hill. As a federally chartered organization, we have an obligation to comply with federal expectations, they wrote, adding further down, Our revised policy emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair and safe competition environments for women. All National Governing Bodies are required to update their applicable policies in alignment. Sykes and Hirshlands statement does not say whether the policy change will impact female athletes with differences in sex development (DSD). A USOPC spokesperson declined to answer, telling The Hill in an email that there is no additional info to share at the moment. Brooke Migdon contributed to this report. Advertisement 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. A weeks-long strike of Republic Services workers in Thurston County may soon come to an end as trash collection resumes in King and Snohomish County. A representative for Teamsters Local 252, representing Republic Services workers in Thurston County, says members will vote on an agreement on Tuesday night. While neither side would reveal details, the Local 252 representative said it was a step in the right direction from offers employees called insult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members had been urging for wages that are in line with other trash companies, healthcare, and retirement benefits. Republic Services said the offer was fair and maintains our competitiveness in the market in a statement to KIRO 7. I understand where the union is going with it, said Rick Sannes, a Republic Services customer, They deserve to have a fair, living wage and collective bargaining is part of the drill to get that. I support that but it is inconvenient for people. Republic Services was required to set up drop off sites in some communities after a second trash day was missed. It feels good, said Joe, a Republic Services employee, We were back yesterday and after being off for two weeks it was a little rough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company says it will collect regular household trash that has accumulated since the strike began on July 9th, though those pickups are not for large items. Lots of full cans, lots of extras, Joe said. People are definitely taking advantage of that extra pickup, people are putting all their stuff out there but thats what were here for, to pick up the mess. Teamsters Local 25 in Boston was the first to strike. Washingtons return to work occurs as that unit has yet to reach a deal and court hearings are starting to be part of the negotiation. In many cities, like Bellevue, Renton, and Lake Forest Park, municipal contracts with Republic Services stipulates account credits must be given for collection that did not occur during the disruption. People living outside of those areas can file a complaint with the Washington Utility and Transportation Commission to try and get credits to their account: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Call 888-333-9882 (Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m.) Email consumer@utc.wa.gov Or submit a complaint online: File a Complaint The strike had began in Lacey, with picket lines expanding into Snohomish and King Counties. Workers either joined in solidarity or expressed their right to not cross a picket line, disrupting trash collection in those larger communities. As long as theyre reaching deals its good for all of us when our contracts come up, Joe said. TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) The Travis County Sheriffs Office said Wednesday morning that it is investigating a shooting that occurred in the 8100 block of Dalmatian Lane, according to a social media post. That area is a residential neighborhood east of Austin, near Lake Walter E Long. According to TCSO Public Information Officer Kristen Dark, TCSO responded to a residence on Dalmatian Lane after receiving a 911 call for a welfare check around 2:07 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies found two people inside the home with gunshot wounds. One was a male in his 20s and the other was a female in her teens. Dark said the deputies attempted CPR on the female, but were unsuccessful and she died at the scene. Travis County Sheriffs Office deputies responding to a July 23, 2025 shooting on Dalmatian Lane. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey) The two deceased were relatives, Dark said. She noted that the male worked for TCSO as a corrections officer. Because both parties are deceased, we may never know what happened, Dark said. This was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public. We are not looking for a suspect. Travis County Sheriff Sally Hernandez was at the scene Wednesday morning to provide support to the family of the deceased, Dark said. The identities of the deceased will not be released until confirmed by the county medical examiner. Advertisement 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 KXAN Austin. The 4th Annual Trucking Matters Seminar Series, hosted by Reliance Partners, brought together nearly 300 industry professionals in Nashville, TN. This years event was the largest yet and provided numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration, Speakers covered some of the most pressing topics in the trucking and logistics sector today, including handling difficult shipper RFPs, the likely upcoming tractor pre-buy in 2026 and 2029, the fluff and substance around digital brokers, and much more. The events agenda was packed with sessions featuring major industry players: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freight and Economic Overview Thom Albrecht, Chief Revenue Officer at Reliance Partners, opened with a discussion on the state of the industry and economy at large. Reshoring and Nearshoring Trends Rosemary Coates, Executive Director of the Reshoring Institute and President of Blue Silk Consulting, discussed global supply chain shifts and the strategic importance of reshoring and enhancing domestic freight strategies. Trucking Litigation Panel Experts from law firms and the American Trucking Association navigated through the latest legal challenges plaguing the industry. Shipper Panel The shipper panel gathered representatives from key industry players like MARS Inc, Ardagh Group, Seaboard Foods, Kroger, and Kimberly-Clark, all with valuable perspectives on logistical trends and challenges, as well as innovative practices adopted by major shippers to improve efficiency and sustainability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breakout Sessions Tailored breakout sessions provided targeted insights and actionable strategies for tackling specific challenges in freight operations, including FMCSA audits, cargo theft, and freight fraud. Insurance Panel Representatives from Amwins and Nirvana discussed freight insurance issues and risk mitigation in 2025, as well as the pros and cons of captive insurance products. The annual Trucking Matters seminar series is a major networking opportunity designed to encourage connections and to share cutting-edge trends and strategies. As noted by several attendees, the flow and organization of the event seamlessly facilitated the exchange of ideas and experiences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are a few testimonials from this years attendees: This years event was truly spectacular! Each panel brought fresh insights, and the overall event setup and flow keeps getting better every year. Reliance Partners really knows how to bring value to the industry. We look forward to Trucking Matters every year. Reliance Partners is doing amazing work and we cant wait for next years event! It was my first time attending, and I was impressed by how well-organized and professionally run everything was. The topics were incredibly relevant and provided valuable takeaways for our business. The Trucking Matters Seminar Series is a premier event on the trucking and logistics calendar, so be sure you dont miss out on next years gathering, where there will be another combination of insightful panels, engaging keynotes, and extensive networking opportunities. Save the date for July 22-23, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville, TN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reliance Partners is committed to advancing the trucking and logistics sectors together with sponsors and industry leaders. Click here to learn more about Reliance Partners. The post Trucking Matters Seminar Series covers key issues in 2025 appeared first on FreightWaves. President Donald Trump hung up on a CNN reporter during a phone call Tuesday that lasted a mere 30 seconds after the journalist questioned him about resurfaced images showing Jeffrey Epstein at Trumps 1993 wedding to his second wife, Marla Maples. While appearing Tuesday on Erin Burnett OutFront, reporter Andrew Kaczynski shared details about the abrupt phone call with Trump that ended in name-calling. The call took place after CNNs KFile found photos of Epstein and Trump that had not been widely reported on before. One photo showed the disgraced financier and sex offender attending Trumps Plaza Hotel wedding to Maples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a separate image, Epstein was seen with Trump and his children at a Harley-Davidson Cafe that same year. CNN also released a video of Trump and Epstein chatting with each other at a Victorias Secret Fashion Show in New York in February 1999. Kaczynski told host Burnett that the call, in which he asked Trump about the images, ended with the president slamming CNN as fake news and hanging up after he refused to answer questions about his past connection to Epstein. We were not on the phone very long. I think our call was about 30 seconds or so, Kaczynski told Burnett. But when I asked him about the wedding photo, he said, he sort of paused for a second and then said, Youve got to be kidding me, before calling CNN fake news and then hanging up on me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to CNN, Kaczynski said, White House communications director Steven Cheung said, These are nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious. Cheung added: The fact is that the president kicked [Epstein] out of his club for being a creep. Kaczynskis heated yet ultra-brief conversation with Trump comes after the Department of Justice and FBI released a two-page memo earlier this month, claiming their Epstein investigation determined that there was no evidence Epstein was murdered or had a client list of powerful figures he could potentially blackmail. Following the memo release, Trump faced scrutiny over his administrations handling of the Epstein files, particularly from his own base. Since then, both Republicans and Democrats have called on the president and his administration to release more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch Kaczynskis appearance below. Related... Steve Cortes, former President Trump senior adviser, and David Drucker, senior writer for The Dispatch, join On Balance to discuss Trumps allegations that President Barack Obama committed treason by colluding with Russia in 2016. Cortes believes documented information from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard holds enough ground that Obamas team concocted a totally fake, dishonest hoax plot against Trump. Drucker responds that Trump isnt a peacemaker or unifier by throwing around such accusations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Trump administration just dealt a blow to the biggest transmission line project currently underway in the United States. The U.S. Department of Energy has canceled a $4.9 billion federal loan guarantee for the Grain Belt Express, a massive transmission line project seeking to carry wind and solar energy from the Great Plains to states farther east. Its the latest in a series of Trump administration actions aimed at undermining the U.S. clean energy sector in the name of protecting taxpayer dollars. In its Wednesday cancellation announcement, the DOE claimed that the conditions necessary to issue the guarantee are unlikely to be met and it is not critical for the federal government to have a role in supporting this project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Energy Secretary Chris Wright is also scrutinizing several other loans made under the Biden administration by the DOEs Loan Programs Office, which issued its conditional guarantee to the Grain Belt Express in November. He has pledged to closely review and potentially cancel tens of billions of dollars more in financing from the office, citing a need to more responsibly steward federal dollars. However, in its 20-year history, the office has turned a profit for taxpayers by collecting interest and principal payments from the companies that receive loans. The Grain Belt Express has been in the works for more than a decade. Its one of only a handful of major transmission projects underway in the U.S., and once built it will be able to support the development of gigawatts of new wind and solar projects and deliver $52 billion in energy cost savings over 15 years, according to Invenergy, the Chicago-based developer thats building it. Around the country, more projects like the Grain Belt Express are needed to expand the grid fast enough to meet surging demand and to bolster electricity reliability. The cancellation comes a week after Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, told The New York Times that he had made a personal appeal to President Donald Trump to take action to halt the project, and that Trump had promised to instruct the DOE to do so. He said, Well, lets just resolve this now, Hawley told The New York Times. So he got Chris Wright on the line right there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Invenergy did not immediately respond to requests for comment Wednesday morning. The developer had sought the loan guarantee to reduce the expense of borrowing for the project, which will cost $11 billion in total and has already secured agreements with utilities in Missouri as part of its efforts to find buyers for the power it will make available across the regions it will connect. Its unclear to what extent the loss of federal loan guarantees will derail or slow down the projects timeline. In May, Invenergy signed a nearly $1.7 billion contract with contractors Kiewit Energy Group and Quanta Services, and construction is slated to begin next year. In a statement earlier this month responding to a social media post from Hawley criticizing the project, Invenergy accused the senator of trying to deprive Americans billions of dollars in energy cost savings, thousands of jobs, grid reliability and national security, all in an era of exponentially growing demand. The U.S. faces a looming crisis as new data centers, factories, and broader economic growth cause electricity demand to rise faster than supply is forecast to grow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Solar, wind, and batteries have made up more than 90% of new energy built in recent years, and are the only resources that can be constructed rapidly enough to meet surging demand in the near term. Other energy resources have far slower development times, including fossil-gas power plants, which currently face manufacturing bottlenecks that will take years to resolve. In addition to headwinds from Trump and the GOP-led Congress, which just eliminated federal tax credits for solar and wind, the main factor that threatens to hold back clean-energy development is a lack of space on the grid. The U.S. lags in building the new high-voltage transmission lines that grid experts say are necessary to bring even more new solar, wind, and batteries online. These lines carry clean power from where its cheap to produce to where the most energy is consumed, like cities, and building more of them can reduce grid congestion, improve power system reliability, and lower electricity rates. The Grain Belt Express has won approval from utility regulators in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana, and has received support from lawmakers and organizations representing farmers and large electricity consumers. But the project has also faced multiple challenges from landowners and farmers. Invenergy is currently contesting an Illinois courts 2024 decision to overturn state regulatory approval for the project, made in response to a challenge from the Illinois Farm Bureau and landowner groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouris attorney general, a Republican, launched an investigation into the project earlier this month, accusing Invenergy of inflating economic benefits and overstating cost savings it would deliver. Invenergy contested the validity of that challenge in a letter to Energy Secretary Wright, saying that all relevant issues have already been decided by state courts and regulators. Its common for large-scale transmission projects, which traverse hundreds of miles across many different municipalities, counties, and states, to get bogged down in court battles. Its a big reason why it takes so long to build new power lines in the U.S. But the Trump administration's decision to cancel financing for the project is uncharted territory, and the impact is still unclear. Should the project be delayed, itd be a major setback for the U.S.s already-sluggish transmission buildout. The U.S. needs far more transmission to be built to lower energy costs and reduce the increasing threat of blackouts caused by extreme weather, according to reports from groups ranging from the Department of Energy and the North American Electric Reliability Corp. to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Princeton University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past decade, the number of miles of long-range, high-voltage transmission built across the country has fallen, even as utility transmission spending has risen. A report released this week by advocacy group Americans for a Clean Energy Grid and consultancy Grid Strategies found that only 322 miles of high-voltage transmission lines were completed last year, the third-lowest buildout of the past 15 years, and well below the nearly 4,000 miles built in 2013. The Grain Belt Express represents a critical opportunity to modernize the grid, lower electricity costs, and deliver reliable energy across multiple states, Christina Hayes, executive director of Americans for a Clean Energy Grid, told Canary Media in a Wednesday email. We encourage the administration to take a fresh look at the value this project brings to achieving its own goals for economic growth and energy dominance. The Trump administration spotlighted an American manufacturer in Utah on Tuesday for making its products entirely in the United States amid President Donald Trumps crackdown on companies that misuse the Made in USA label. As part of the Federal Trade Commissions Made in the USA month, FTC Commissioner Melissa Holyoak, Utahs former solicitor general, visited the Utah facility of Leitner-Poma-Skytrac, a ski lift company in Tooele on Tuesday. In recent weeks, the FTC has attempted to advance a core plank of Trumps domestic and foreign policy agenda to strengthen American manufacturing by cracking down on false claims of products originating in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a priority of the administration right now, Holyoak told the Deseret News. We want to ensure that Americans are confident that when theyre supporting manufacturers that are creating products in the United States ... that actually is truthful and not misleading. Melissa Holyoak, a commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, tours the HTI Group (High Technology Industries) facility, home to Leitner-Poma and Skytrac, with Daren Cole, president and CEO of Leitner-Poma, in Tooele on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News FTC warns USA companies On July 8, the FTC sent a letter warning Amazon and Walmart to improve their policing of third-party sellers who claim their products are USA-made. The letter also flagged four additional companies, reminding them to comply with Made in USA requirements. The FTC Made in USA Labeling Rule finalized in 2021 codified federal guidelines clarifying that if a company makes an unqualified claim that its product is American-made, then it must be all or virtually all made in the U.S. This standard means that the final assembly, all significant processing and virtually all ingredients or components of the product must be made and sourced in the United States. Simply put, the product can contain almost no foreign content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If a company fails to meet these qualifications while making use of the Made in USA label, the FTCs consumer protection enforcement bureau can pursue legal action, including federal lawsuits, civil penalties, injunctions and subpoenas. Over the past decade, the FTC has initiated at least 20 law enforcement actions to enforce Made in USA advertising requirements, recovering nearly $10 million, according to Holyoak. In one example, Williams-Sonoma agreed to pay the FTC a $3.2 million civil penalty after Pottery Barn Kids and Teens products marketed as made in the U.S. were found to have been made in China. We hear from consumers why its important to them that they feel like when theyre supporting American manufacturing, theyre supporting America and American communities, Holyoak said. Could tariffs hurt Made in USA? Joshua Skuppin welds a chairlift tower at the HTI Group (High Technology Industries) facility, home to Leitner-Poma and Skytrac, in Tooele on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News In addition to enforcement actions, the FTC provides compliance counseling to educate medium and small businesses, according to Holyoak, who said they anticipate an increase in the number of businesses making Made in USA claims as they transition to domestic manufacturing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carl Skylling, the president of Skytrac, which employs more than 80 people in Tooele, said his Utah-based business has always sourced its labor, components and raw materials, including steel, from U.S. suppliers. We always saw it as a major advantage because we control our destiny here, Skylling said. We dont have the core problems of shipping everything over. Businesses across the country experienced the instability of overrelying on international supply chains during COVID-19, and now with Trumps emerging tariff regime, Skytrac is better prepared than its competitors to avoid new levies, Skylling said. Grant Colvin, a consultant with GWC Public Affairs; Carl Skylling, president of Skytrac; Melissa Holyoak, a commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission; and Daren Cole, president and CEO of Leitner-Poma, tour the HTI Group (High Technology Industries) facility, home to Leitner-Poma and Skytrac, in Tooele on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News But even the manufacturers that proudly wear the Made in USA label have been hit indirectly by tariffs, Skylling said, because domestic suppliers, like U.S. steel plants, have taken advantage of the new import tax by raising their prices too. Do Americans want goods made in the U.S.? While these pressures from tariffs and other regulations are unlikely to increase the quality of products for consumers, they will push U.S. companies into really awkward supply lines, according to Michael Kofoed, an economist at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite some polls showing that 75% of U.S. consumers prefer U.S.-made goods, Kofoed said most surveys find that price and the value added to their life from a product are the most important factors for most American consumers. After all, if Americans prioritized a products country of origin above other considerations then tariffs wouldnt be needed at all to spur more consumption of more expensive domestic products, Kofoed said. It may make sense to ramp up enforcement of Made in USA labels to promote an administrations agenda, but it could also create new incentives that stray from market forces that encourage high quality, low cost and maximum efficiency, according to Kofoed. Every time we deviate from that, we start to open a Pandoras box of unintended consequences, Kofoed said. Maybe what happens is my competitor cant compete with me on price and efficiency because I am so good at what I do, so theyre going to now take me to court to claim thats not American enough. Trump administration looks to promote U.S. businesses Melissa Holyoak, a commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, tours the HTI Group (High Technology Industries) facility, home to Leitner-Poma and Skytrac, with Daren Cole, president and CEO of Leitner-Poma, in Tooele on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News What Tuesdays tour taught Holyoak, however, is that the administrations emphasis on making products in America is not about picking firms to be winners or losers in the market, its about promoting American entrepreneurs who are at the core of what makes the country great. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leitner-Poma, the ski lift company that owns Skytrac, opened its new Utah facility a little over a year ago after CEO Daren Cole was impressed by the states business climate and economic development team that connected him with supply chain partners. But the key to their long-term investment in the state, Cole said which includes welding wages of nearly $40 an hour, software development projects with the University of Utah and high school scholarship programs is the people. Holyoak, who planned to visit another Utah-based manufacturer, Liberty Safe, on Wednesday, said the purpose of their advertising regulations is to guarantee consumers can actually support American companies and American manufacturing. As Utah celebrates Pioneer Day on the 24th, Im excited to celebrate American pioneers of industry and innovation, said Holyoak, who lives in Utah. The FTC has, and will continue to, dedicate resources to enforce against deceptive Made in the USA claims, while honoring true pioneers that make honest claims of American-made products. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) More than a month after catastrophic floods struck northern West Virginia and left nine people dead, the Trump Administration has approved a disaster declaration for the areas affected. According to a press release Tuesday from Senator Jim Justices (R-WV) office, the president has officially unlocked FEMA aid for the areas affected by the Fathers Day Flood. This aid includes FEMAs Individual Assistance program for homeowners and renters, as well as other financial assistance for local and state governments. Senator Justice applauded the move by the Trump administration alongside Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Representatives Carol Miller and Riley Moore (both R-WV). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawsuit filed in fatal Clarksburg home explosion case The West Virginia Congressional Delegation is grateful to the Trump administration for the major disaster declaration and emergency declaration giving the approval of our states request for federal disaster aid. The flooding that occurred saw devastating loss of life and property, and we are glad that much-needed help is on the way to help these communities recover and rebuild. We commend the bravery of the first responders who sprang into action and the local leaders, churches, and charities who have been on the ground helping victims begin to rebuild their lives, the lawmakers said. The aid comes less than a week after Senator Capito announced that she was working to expedite the approval process with White House officials. She said that she was working at the most aggressive level to get approval and said Thursday that the White House was expected to approve it early this week. The declaration also comes more than a month after an official request for aid was filed by Governor Patrick Morrisey, who issued the following statement Tuesday night: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump and his administration has shown once again that they will step up and support West Virginia, Gov. Morrisey said. I want to thank everyone involved in securing Individual Assistance for Ohio and Marion counties and providing us another tool to help these communities make a full recovery. Gov. Morrisey urged anyone who sustained a loss in the Fathers Day Floods to file a claim with FEMA here. The City of Fairmont also applauded the declaration Tuesday evening, with City Manager Travis Blosser saying: These declarations will bring meaningful reimbursements to our community, City Manager Travis Blosser said. Were already working with the West Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Marion County Department of Homeland Security to make sure FEMA agents can get their relief stations up and running as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city said that once correspondence with FEMA is established, more information will be released on how those affected can take advantage of the aid. Editors note: This story has been updated to include statements from Gov. Patrick Morrisey and the City of Fairmont. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) The Trump administration on Wednesday canceled a $4.9 billion federal loan guarantee for a new high-voltage transmission line for delivering solar and wind-generated electricity from the Midwest to the eastern U.S., but the company indicated that project would go forward anyway. The U.S. Department of Energy declared that it is "not critical for the federal government to have a role in the first phase of Chicago-based Invenergy's planned Grain Belt Express. The department also questioned whether the $11 billion project could meet the financial conditions required for a loan guarantee. President Donald Trump has repeatedly derided wind and solar energy as unreliable and opposed efforts to combat climate change by moving away from fossil fuels. The Department of Energy also said Wednesday that the conditional commitment to Invenergy in November was among billions of dollars' worth of commitments "rushed out the doors" by former President Joe Biden's administration after Biden lost the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two prominent Missouri Republicans, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and state Attorney General Andrew Bailey, have been vocal critics of the project, describing it as a threat to farmland and landowners property rights. Hawley said on July 10 that he had secured a pledge from U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright to cancel the loan guarantee in a conversation with him and Trump. To ensure more responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, DOE has terminated its conditional commitment, the agency said in a statement. A federal loan guarantee generally makes borrowing money less costly. A statement issued for the Grain Belt Express expressed disappointment, calling the new transmission line America's largest power pipeline. Construction has been set to start next year. The statement added: A privately financed Grain Belt Express transmission superhighway will advance President Trumps agenda of American energy and technology dominance while delivering billions of dollars in energy cost savings, strengthening grid reliability and resiliency, and creating thousands of American jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Invenergy has said its project would create 4,000 jobs and new efficiencies in delivering power, and that it would save consumers $52 billion over 15 years. The line would deliver electricity from western Kansas about 800 miles (1,287 kilometers), across Missouri and Illinois and into Indiana, connecting there to the power grid for the eastern U.S. It could deliver up to 5,000 megawatts of electricity. "When electricity demand and consumer power bills are soaring, its hard to imagine a more backward move, said Bob Keefe, executive director of E2, a nonpartisan, Washington-based group supporting renewable energy. The decision to cancel the loan guarantee came the same day Trump unveiled a plan for U.S. dominance in artificial intelligence that includes speeding up the permitting of new data centers and factories that will boost the demand for electricity. This gross mismanagement of our countrys energy needs will increase power bills for hundreds of millions of people while making the electricity grid less reliable, said Laurie Williams, director of a campaign against fossil fuels for the Sierra Club environmental group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jigar Shah, who headed the Department of Energy office handling loan guarantees under Biden, said that if an applicant meets the requirements of a conditional commitment, the department is obligated to follow through. This decision is illegal, he said in a post on the LinkedIn social media platform. Hawley and Bailey have called the Grain Belt Express a scam." Critics object to what Hawley labels an "elitist land grab, the company's ability to use lawsuits against individual landowners along the line's route to compel them to sell their property. Online court records show that the company filed dozens of such lawsuits in Missouri circuit courts in recent years. The Missouri Farm Bureaus president posted on the social platform X Wednesday that the project threatened to sacrifice rural America in the name of progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve won a major battle in the war for Missouris private property rights and farmers," Bailey said. At our urging, the DOE saw this boondoggle for what it was. Bailey acknowledged in his comments that the project still could go forward with private funding and no loan guarantee but added, If Invenergy still intends to force this project on unwilling landowners, we will continue to fight every step of the way. The Energy Department said Wednesday it terminated a pending $4.9 billion loan guarantee offered by the Biden administration to one of the nations largest power line projects, marking the latest move by the Trump administration to undermine clean energy development in the United States. The massive Grain Belt Express project is designed to transport mostly wind energy from rural Kansas into more populated areas of Indiana. But the department said it opted to terminate the pending guarantee for the $11 billion project after a thorough review of the projects financials. To ensure more responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, DOE has terminated its conditional commitment, the department said in a release Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration canceled the conditional loan guarantee on the same day it outlined its plans to dominate the global artificial intelligence race, including spurring the additional energy needed to achieve that goal. The administration has instead taken action to stunt wind and solar development, including a recent executive order designed to limit the ability of those projects to continue to utilize tax incentives under the GOP megalaw. The department said the conditions necessary to issue the loan guarantee for the Grain Belt Express project were unlikely to be met, and it is not critical for the federal government to have a role in supporting the project. The decision lands after Missouri GOP Sen. Josh Hawley said the administration would kill the financing at his urging. Hawley has opposed the Grain Belt project over its use of eminent domain on farmland. Hawley thanked President Donald Trump on X on Wednesday and called the would-be loan a "boondoggle." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project is expected to break ground next year and would provide sorely needed interregional transmission capacity, carrying 5 gigawatts of power across four regional grids. It has received approvals from regulators in all four states it is set to cross. Invenergy, the Chicago-based developer behind the project, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The power line has largely been marketed as a wind project, but Invenergy is now looking to connect a new gas plant and possibly existing coal generation to the line and paint the project as a key component of the Trump administrations energy dominance agenda. The prior administration announced its intent to offer the loan guarantee in the final months of former President Joe Bidens term. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has repeatedly criticized the Biden administrations actions on billions of dollars of loans in its waning days but has said the loan office can play a vital role in supporting certain projects such as nuclear and critical minerals. DOE said Wednesday it is conducting a review of the offices portfolio, including the closed loans and conditional commitments made between Election Day 2024 to Trumps inauguration to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used to advance the best interest of the American people. If the Solidarity Center folds, it wont be for lack of trying, said Shawna Bader-Blau, executive director of the international labor rights nonprofit, the largest headquartered in the United States that partners directly with workers and their unions. Not if I have anything to do with it, she said. Were still completely, 100 percent dedicated to the programs that we continue to have, despite being half our size, that produce the kind of change that makes a really big difference for working families all over the world. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bader-Blau was speaking shortly after a federal judge ruled earlier this month that its lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of Labors sudden termination of the Bureau of International Labor Affairs-administered grantsthe same ones that underpinned a raft of its worker rights programscould move forward in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The rescission of funding, which an April complaint described as unlawful, stripped the Solidarity Center of $78 million that would have accounted for 20 percent of its financing over multiple years. This is money that would have promoted freedom of association in Mexico, strengthened labor law enforcement in Georgia and tackled forced labor in Uzbekistan. The Labor Department, led by Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, has characterized the programs as using Americans tax dollars to bankroll foreign handouts. In its opposition to the lawsuit the following month, it said that the claims suffer from jurisdictional and substantive defects and should therefore be dismissed. The case is unusual, but so are the circumstances under which it manifested, said Stephanie Garlock, attorney at Public Citizen Litigation Group, which filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Solidarity Center and its fellow plaintiffs Global March Against Child Labour and the American Institutes for Research. Never before has the change of an administration wiped the slate entirely clean with just a fig-leaf justification to cancel all of these really important projects that matter, not only to our partners like the Solidarity Center, but also to workers across the globe, she said. And we see this as part of a pattern of mass impoundment of funds for projects that Congress wanted the agency to carry out for the benefit of workers abroad and at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while the Solidarity Center wasnt granted immediate emergency relief, being able to press its claims is still an important win, Garlock said, especially since the cessation of the programs represents real concerns regarding compliance with appropriations law and the U.S. Constitution. Judge Beryl Howells opinion was that the record the plaintiffs pieced together from public statements and their own knowledge was insufficient to make a decision either way. Now, both they and the defendants have to come up with a proposal to lay out possible next steps in the litigation process. Theres not often full-blown discovery, but what happens as the first step is that the government will have to produce whats called an administrative record that shows what information it has before it and how it made the decision, Garlock said. And our view is that thats really important to begin understanding what the government did and provide some of those answers that Justice Howell was looking for. But a lot of the damage has already been inflicted through widespread layoffs and furloughs and the downsizing or closure of most of the Solidarity Centers field offices, Bader-Blau said. Another 30 percent of its funding stemmed from the U.S. Agency for International Development, better known as USAID. The agencys dismantling by the Department of Government Efficiency in Februaryfed into the wood chipper, as billionaire Elon Musk, the pseudo-agencys then-putative head, remarkedhas made clawing back any of that cash a non-starter. And the bigger impact of that, of course, is on the work and the programs, she said. Its only three and a half months in, but were already seeing the beginnings of a pretty devastating set of rollbacks in progress that was being made under these programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uzbekistan is one such example. Bader-Blau said that a line can be drawn between the axing of a four-year agreement to bolster the agency and rights of cotton supply chain workers and recent state investigations of individuals involved in monitoring the sector for potential forced labor. Thats a direct retaliation that would not have happened if the Solidarity Centers protocol was ongoing, she said, adding that withdrawing these programs sends a signal to governments that the U.S. government doesnt care about the issues and wont hold them accountable. Other countries have also seen pretty significant rollbacks in progress on collective bargaining and unionization after losing the tools that the Solidarity Center imbued them with, such as legal aid and technical assistance, she said. Such backsliding has implications for American workers who will be left at an even greater competitive disadvantage because exploitation that cheapens dignity also cheapens labor costs. Two contracts that were being negotiated in Guatemala and Colombia have completely stalled; the employers are basically no longer bargaining in good faith, Bader-Blau said. Thats only three months in from the terminations. I hate to think what its going to look like in another six. When we take a hit to our programs and our infrastructure, a lot of the global labor movement also takes a big hit. The Solidarity Center has been able to access previously withdrawn funds from the National Endowment for Democracy, a quasi-autonomous grant-making organization that filed a lawsuit against executive branch agencies and officials in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in March, releasing money that accounts for more than half of the nonprofits annual expenditures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other options for financing, such as private foundations and national developmental funds, are vanishingly few. And while the fashion brands that benefited reputationally or operationally from beefier labor rights in their sourcing countries have signed letters of support for the canceled programs, none have stepped up with financial offers. The lack of investment in significant labor rights programs, particularly in the global majority countries, is a bit shameful, to be honest, Bader-Blau said. And we have worked over many years in a big coalition to try to raise awareness about the need for that kind of investment. If anything, the fact that the United States is pulling back on its democratic commitments should serve as a wake-up call for greater global solidarity, she added. Democracy that works for normal people is one that delivers economic benefit and opportunity to everyone, and labor movements are central to that, she said. We all see ourselves as connected in that struggle. The Trump administration is literally torching nearly $10 million worth of birth control meant for women in countries where they cannot access or afford it. The stock of pills, implants, and IUDs has been sitting unused in a warehouse in Geel, Belgium, for the past three months. The supplies are now being sent to France to be incinerated, as first reported by Reuters, with the U.S. government spending $160,000 to burn $9.7 million in contraceptives., The Belgian foreign ministry told the outlet that it had "explored all possible options to prevent the destruction, including temporary relocation," but were unable to reach an agreement with Trump officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Despite these efforts, and with full respect for our partners, no viable alternative could be secured. Nevertheless, Belgium continues to actively seek solutions to avoid this regrettable outcome," it said. "Sexual and reproductive health must not be subject to ideological constraints." The Trump administration, aided by Elon Musk and the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, dismantled USAID shortly after taking office. The office handled foreign aid programs, including those that fight HIV and other diseases, but the administration sought to prevent funding for "sexual reproductive health and reproductive rights" and "gender equality." The closing of USAID also stopped payments to health care providers working with the Presidents Emergency Program for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) which provides HIV drugs and related services to poor countries around the world. PEPFAR was later exempted from the funding freeze by Congress. The administration is destroying the birth control supplies despite offers from the United Nations and other nonprofits, such as MSI Reproductive Choices, to cover the cost. Associate Director of Advocacy at MSI Sarah Shaw said the group offered to pay shipping and import costs, but "the U.S. government would only sell the supplies at the full market value." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is clearly not about saving money. It feels more like an ideological assault on reproductive rights, and one that is already harming women," she said. This article originally appeared on Advocate: Trump administration will incinerate $10 million worth of birth control for poor women RELATED Secretary of State Marco Rubio launched an investigation into Harvard University's compliance with the government-run visa program for international students and professors on Wednesdaythe latest flashpoint in the ongoing feud over campus control. In a letter reviewed by The New York Times, Rubio demanded records related to the school's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program, a program designed to promote educational and cultural exchange by bringing scholars and students to the United States for teaching and researching opportunities. "In a statement, Mr. Rubio said the investigation was aimed at verifying that the visa program does not 'compromise the national security interests of the United States,'" reported the Times. The investigation comes only two days after Harvard argued in court that the Trump administration's retaliatory freezing of $2.6 billion in research funding violated constitutional free speech protections. The university filed suit in April shortly after it defied the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) sweeping demands to change governance, discipline, hiring, and admissions policies to maintain federal funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leading up to Monday's hearing, the government filed a brief arguing "it is the policy of the United States under the Trump Administration not to fund institutions that fail to adequately address antisemitism in their programs." But Judge Allison Burroughs of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts seemed skeptical that the administration's process and documentation were sufficient to determine whether Harvard had "taken enough steps" to address antisemitism. "It's a little bit mind-boggling," Burroughs told the government attorney. "You're saying they can terminate the contracts if the executive branch doesn't agree with the viewpoint espoused by the college?" No final ruling has yet been made, but President Donald Trump quickly asserted that he will appeal the judge's ruling if she rules against his administration. "She is a TOTAL DISASTER, which I say even before hearing her Ruling," the president said in a Truth Social post. "How did this Trump-hating Judge get these cases? When she rules against use, we will IMMEDIATELY appeal, and WIN." Rubio's latest investigation seems to be an attempt to maintain pressure on Harvard to yield to Trump's demands that the university conform to his agenda. Accompanying the ongoing funding dispute, DHS announced on July 9 it would subpoena the university for information on its 10,000 foreign students, and two other federal agenciesthe Education Department and the Department of Health and Human Servicesnotified Harvard's accrediting organization that the school was found to be in violation of federal law, and therefore, no longer met the standards for accreditation. Meanwhile, Trump has threatened to have the IRS revoke Harvard's tax-exempt statuswhich saved the university $465 million in 2023, according to Bloombergand on July 4 signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law, raising the tax rate on Harvard's endowment from 1.4 percent to 8 percent. But throughout all the battling, a bigger question remains: Why does a university with an endowment of over $53 billion need government money in the first place? As Reason has previously argued, one obvious way Harvard can mitigate intrusive government interference is to eschew federal funding altogether. Another prestigious school, Yale University, seems to have taken the hint, and recently cancelled two federal grant applications because it refuses to comply with the Trump administration's rules on diversity, equity, and inclusion. To truly protect free speech and pluralismand mitigate future legal showdowns with the executive branchHarvard should follow suit. The post Trump Administration Opens New Investigation Into Harvard, Escalating Pressure appeared first on Reason.com. July 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department announced Tuesday that the United States has decided to exit the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The Trump administration informed UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the decision as the State Department stated in a press release that "continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States." The release charged that "UNESCO works to advance divisive social and cultural causes and maintains an outsized focus on the [United Nations'] Sustainable Development Goals, a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted by all U.N. member states in 2015, and is based on 17 Sustainable Development Goals, described by the U.N. as "an urgent call for action by all countries" to partner in a relationship in recognition "that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth, all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests." The release also cites UNESCO's decision "to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a member state," which the United States considers "highly problematic," and has "contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization." White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly announced on X on Tuesday that "President Trump has decided to withdraw from UNESCO, which supports woke, divisive cultural and social causes." "Like many U.N. organizations, UNESCO strayed from its founding mission. Going forward, U.S. participation in international organizations must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous," State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce posted on X on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azoulay criticized the U.S. withdrawal in a statement. "This decision contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism, and may affect first and foremost our many partners in the United States of America," said Azoulay. In regard to the State Department's insinuation of anti-Israel rhetoric, she said such claims "contradict the reality of UNESCO's efforts, particularly in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism." Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar endorsed the withdrawal in a social media post Tuesday, calling it "a necessary step, designed to promote justice and Israel's right for fair treatment in the U.N. system, a right which has often been trampled due to politicization in this arena." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Israel and the United States withdrew from UNESCO in 2019 under the first Trump administration, but the United States rejoined under former President Biden. Democrats have balked at the move, describing it as the United States relinquishing its global leadership position to competitors, including China. "Contrary to the Trump administration's smears against UNESCO, our withdrawal form this body only weakens our ability to combat anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias; it's the only U.N. agency with a mandate to promote Holocaust education globally," Rep. Gregory Meeks, ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Tuesday in a statement. "UNESCO is also a key forum for shaping global education and technology standards -- China will celebrate our empty seat at the UNESCO table as it seeks to gain an edge against the U.S. in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNESCO also received international support despite the American exit. French President Emmanuel Macron posted to X on Tuesday calling the organization "a universal guardian of science, the ocean, education, culture, and world heritage." "The withdrawal of the United States will not weaken our commitment alongside those who lead this fight," he added. France's foreign ministry similarly issued a statement expressing its regret at the U.S. decision. As per the UNESCO Constitution, the United States will remain a full member until the end of 2026. Azoulay said in her statement that "the United States of America is and will always be welcome." The Trump administration has released details of the FBI investigation into Martin Luther King Jr.s killing as his family insists James Earl Ray was not the shooter. In President Donald Trumps push to release previously classified records related to infamous assassinations, including the shooting of former President John F. Kennedy, the feds released more than 230,000 pages of documents related to Kings killing on Monday. Under President Trumps leadership, we are ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our mission to deliver complete transparency on this pivotal and tragic event in our nations history, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kings assassination shocked the world in 1968, and decades later, people are still fascinated by the civil rights leaders death. The Trump administration has released details of the FBI investigation into Martin Luther King Jr.s killing as his family insists James Earl Ray was not the shooter (AFP/Getty) King was shot at 6:05 p.m. on April 4, 1968. He was in Memphis, Tennessee, to support a sanitation workers strike. As he stood on the second-floor balcony of the Lorraine Motel, a snipers bullet struck him in the neck. He died about an hour later in the hospital at the age of 39. Over two months later, the suspect in Kings assassination, James Earl Ray, was arrested at Londons Heathrow Airport. Ray was a convicted robber who had been associated with racists. Witnesses reported seeing Ray running from a boarding house near the Lorraine Motel, where prosecutors said he fired the shot that killed King, History.com reported. Rays fingerprints were also on the rifle he used to assassinate King, according to the feds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On March 10, 1969, nearly a year after King was killed, Ray pleaded guilty to the murder. He later renounced his plea and maintained his innocence until he died in prison in 1998 at the age of 70. On March 10, 1969, nearly a year after King was killed, Ray pleaded guilty to the murder, but he later renounced his plea (Keystone/Getty) The King family has long believed Ray was not the killer, and in a statement released Monday, they said they will look for additional insights in the newly released files. The statement, which was issued by two of Kings children, Martin Luther King III and Bernice, mentioned the verdict of a wrongful death lawsuit the family filed in Tennessee in 1999. The jury unanimously concluded that our father was the victim of a conspiracy involving Loyd Jowers and unnamed co-conspirators, including government agencies as a part of a wider scheme, the familys statement read. The verdict also affirmed that someone other than James Earl Ray was the shooter, and that Mr. Ray was set up to take the blame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jowers, a former Memphis tavern owner, claimed in 1993 he participated in a conspiracy to kill King along with a Mafia figure, Memphis police officers and a man named Raoul, according to the Justice Department. Jowers claimed one of the conspirators shot King from behind his tavern. Jowers died in 2000. The King familys statement continued: Our family views that verdict as an affirmation of our long-held beliefs. As we review these newly released files, we will assess whether they offer additional insights beyond the findings our family has already accepted. The Justice Department said it reviewed the allegations and determined in August 2023 that, on their face, Jowers' allegations about a plot to kill Dr. King appear to be unworthy of belief. The totality of the evidence suggests that Jowers fabricated his allegations, hoping to promote a sensational account of a conspiracy to murder Dr. King, the Justice Department said. In President Donald Trumps push to release previously classified records related to famous assassinations, the feds released over 230,000 pages of documents related to Kings killing on Monday (Getty) Kings family also told the public the newly released files must be viewed within their full historical context, claiming the civil rights leader was relentlessly targeted by an invasive, predatory, and deeply disturbing disinformation and surveillance campaign orchestrated by former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The intent of the governments COINTELPRO campaign was not only to monitor, but to discredit, dismantle and destroy Dr. Kings reputation and the broader American Civil Rights Movement, the King family added. COINTELPRO was an FBI program that ran from 1956 to 1971 to disrupt the activities of the Communist Party of the United States, according to the agency. When The Independent reached out to the FBI about the King familys statement, it said the agency doesn't have any comment. The Trump administration unveiled Wednesday a framework for its artificial intelligence (AI) policy, placing a heavy emphasis on boosting U.S. innovation, building out data center infrastructure and promoting American technology abroad. The 28-page AI Action Plan lays out the administrations approach to the rapidly developing technology, putting forward more than 90 policy actions for near-term execution by the federal government. We believe were in an AI race, White House AI and crypto czar David Sacks told reporters on a call Wednesday morning. Theres a global competition now to lead on artificial intelligence, and we want the United States to win that race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI is a revolutionary technology thats going to have profound ramifications for both the economy and for national security, he continued. So, it is very important that that American continue to be the dominant power in AI. The plan seeks to remove what the Trump administration deems as onerous regulations at both the federal and state level. This includes limiting funding to states over their AI rules, as well as tasking the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) with evaluating whether certain state AI regulations interfere with its mandate. The framework also calls for a review of the Federal Trade Commissions (FTC) investigations launched under the Biden administration to ensure that they do not advance theories of liability that unduly burden AI innovation. We cannot afford to go down Europes innovation-killing regulatory path, said Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal agencies will now review their rules on the books and repeal those that injure AI development and deployment across industries from financial services and agriculture to health and transportation, he added, noting they will seek input from industry as well. The AI Action Plan also directs the Commerce Department to revise an AI risk framework to remove references to misinformation, climate change and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and calls for an update to federal procurement guidelines limiting contracts to AI systems deemed objective and free from top-down ideological bias. The framework separately focuses on boosting the development of AI data center and energy infrastructure. It seeks to provide data centers with wide-ranging exclusions from or permits for federal environment regulations, in addition to generally expediting permitting efforts. While vague, the plan appears to call for reducing scrutiny of AIs environmental impacts. It calls for exempting from environmental review data center-related actions that normally do not have a significant effect on the environment. Its not entirely clear what would fall under that category. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also calls for fast-tracking all data center and data center energy projects under the nations permitting system and considering a nationwide permit to allow these projects to move forward despite potential water quality impacts. And it says the government should make publicly-owned lands available for construction of data centers and related power plants, in addition to pushing for stabilizing the electrical grid and boosting U.S. semiconductor manufacturing. It also calls for making federal land available to build data centers and the necessary power generation infrastructure. The final key prong of the administrations AI Action Plan is boosting the global adoption of American AI systems, including expanding efforts to export U.S. technology, countering Chinese influence in international AI governance and strengthening export controls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having American AI models at the top of leaderboards wont win the AI race alone, Kratsios said. Winning the race comes from those models being used by Americans and the rest of the world. American AI must be the gold standard. The AI framework largely aligns with the administrations earlier moves on AI. Vice President Vance slammed excessive regulation in favor of innovation during his first international trip in January, as President Trump rescinded former President Bidens executive order focused on AI guardrails. Trump has also heavily emphasized the AI infrastructure buildout in his first six months in office, announcing the $500 billion Stargate project with OpenAI, SoftBank and Oracle in January. He touted another $92 billion in private data center and energy investments last week in Pennsylvania. While the plan was largely well received by the tech industry, it faced pushback from watchdog groups. Public Citizen, a left-leaning consumer advocacy group, argued the framework represents a handout to major tech firms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under this plan, tech giants get sweetheart deals while everyday Americans will see their electricity bills rise to subsidize discounted power for massive AI data centers, J.B. Branch, Public Citizens Big Tech accountability advocate, said in a statement. States are held hostage: either stop protecting their residents from dangerous, untested AI products, or lose federal funding, he continued. Perhaps the most disturbing, this administration rails against so-called woke AI, yet an antisemitic chatbot operated by Elon Musk is receiving millions in federal contracts. Public Citizen joined some 90 groups on Tuesday in signing the Peoples AI Action Plan, calling for an alternative framework amid concerns that Big Tech and Big Oil lobbyists are writing the rules for AI. Updated at 4:38 p.m. EDT Advertisement 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. (Fixes GAO name in paragraph two) By Richard Cowan WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Trump administration's temporary freeze on federal funds for the Head Start early education program for low-income children was illegal, a non-partisan government watchdog concluded in a report released on Wednesday, as the White House continues to challenge Congress' authority over spending. The U.S. General Accountability Office said disbursement of funds for the program, which is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, was significantly reduced beginning on Jan. 20 -- the day Donald Trump was sworn in for a second term as president -- until April 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subsequently, funds were being delivered consistently, GAO said. "We conclude that HHS violated the ICA," the GAO report stated, referring to the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which allows the president to withhold obligated funds under strictly limited circumstances. An HHS spokesman said in an email: "HHS did not impound Head Start funds and disputes the conclusion of the GAO report." Andrew Nixon, HHS director of communications, added, "GAO should anticipate a forthcoming response from HHS to incorporate into an updated report." GAO provides Congress, the heads of executive agencies and the public with information aimed at improving government operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency warned that executive branch officials must ensure that they "prudently obligate appropriations" and said HHS had not provided information it requested related to the slow disbursement of money to Head Start centers across the country. In May, Reuters reported on the impact on some of the 800,000 children and families enrolled in the program, as a result of delayed Head Start grant approvals, as well as April's closure of HHS regional offices in Chicago, Boston, New York, Seattle and San Francisco. Funding delays meant that parents with children enrolled in some Head Start programs had to scurry to find private care for children through the age of five as programs were either temporarily suspended or on the verge of closing. Staff workers also were uncertain about their positions being maintained. The chaos over Head Start money was part of a far larger effort by the Trump administration to severely cut government programs and the size of the federal workforce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first few months of this year the effort was headed by Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest person, as he steered the newly-formed "Department of Government Efficiency," known as DOGE. A funding tracker maintained by Democrats on the House of Representatives and Senate Appropriations Committees found that at one point this year, $943 million in Head Start funds had been frozen. The administration's unilateral government funding cuts and firings triggered a slew of legal challenges and administration appeals. Government-wide, about $425 billion was on hold by the Trump administration as of June 3, according to the committees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It does not matter how long these funds were frozen. The chaos and uncertainty of illegally withholding these funds is costly and hurts the hundreds of thousands of families that depend on Head Start," Representative Rosa DeLauro said in a statement. She is the senior House Appropriations Committee Democrat. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Aurora Ellis) Trump administration officials have awarded a $1.26 billion contract to build a sprawling tent camp to detain immigrants at an Army base in Texas. The 5,000-bed facility at Fort Bliss, once complete, will be the largest immigration detention facility in the country. The deal, awarded to Virginia-based contractor Acquisition Logistics Company, was first reported by The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contractor, which has previously done supply chain work for the military, does not appear to have past detention experience, according to a review of records by Bloomberg. The Army is paying $232 million worth of the contract, per the outlet. 5,000-bed facility at Fort Bliss in Texas would be largest immigration detention center in country, as Trump administration expands detention system with $45 billion in new funding (US Department of Defense/AFP via) The deal comes after a previous $3.8 billion contract to build a tent camp at Fort Bliss was awarded, then retracted earlier this year. The contracted detention center adds to capacity in the area, where there is an existing Immigration and Customs Enforcement tent facility in use in northeast El Paso. Critics argue that tent-based detention camps suffer from poor conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detainees say that at a Florida detention center dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, hastily constructed out of tents and trailers on a defunct air strip, they were given no water, maggot-infested food, and exposed to mosquitoes. Civil rights groups have sued over conditions at the facility, alleging detainees were denied due process and legal counsel. The Trump administration has expanded the militarys role in immigration system, including by using the Guantanamo Bay naval base to house migrant detainees (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Since taking office, the Trump administration has embarked on a mass expansion of immigration-related spending. The White Houses signature One Big, Beautiful Bill spending package includes an unprecedented $45 billion worth of detention-related funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which has already used Fort Bliss as a hub for deportation flights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of last week, more than 56,000 people were in immigration detention across the country, and the administration has said its further investments could increase bed capacity to 100,000. The military reportedly has plans to use bases in Indiana and New Jersey to further expand detention capabilities. Fort Bliss is already a hub for deportation flights (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) With this spike in detention comes worsening conditions in immigrant detention centers, according to critics. Video from inside a New York City detention facility shows about two dozen people on a cement floor with nothing but emergency blankets near a partially exposed toilet Look how they have us like dogs in here, the person filming the videos can be heard saying in Spanish. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 14 people have died this fiscal year in immigration detention, outpacing past administrations. Outside of detaining immigrants, the Trump administration has made marked use of the military in other areas of immigration policy, including conducting deportation flights, sending Marines into the streets of Los Angeles to respond to anti-immigration raid protests, and creating new military border zones where troops can arrest border-crossers. The Trump administration announced Monday an additional probe against George Mason University (GMU), making it the fourth since President Trump took office. The Department of Justice (DOJ) said it is investigating if the university has violated Title VI by discriminating against students based on race or ethnicity during admissions or scholarship practices. Public educational institutions are contractually obligated to follow our nations federal civil rights laws when receiving federal funds, said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. No one should be denied access to opportunity or resources because of their race, color, or national origin, and the United States is committed to keeping our universities free of such invidious bias. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hill has reached out to GMU for comment. The investigation comes on the back of a similar DOJ inquiry into whether George Mason discriminated against faculty for promotion or hiring based on race or ethnicity due to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Other investigations include inaction on antisemitism and an additional inquiry into discrimination in employment practices. As always, we will work in good faith to give a full and prompt response. George Mason University again affirms its commitment to comply with all federal and state mandates. The university consistently reviews its policies and practices to ensure compliance with federal laws, updated executive orders, and on-going agency directives, a spokesperson for the university said in response to the investigation regarding DEI. Advertisement 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. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday released his AI Action Plan, as promised in a January executive order. The plan outlines what could be the future of artificial intelligence for the United States at a critical point in the technologys growth pattern and adoption rates. In the plan, Trumps administration makes it clear that its main goal is rapid growth of AI systems, largely in an effort to compete with China on the development of the technology. It encourages standing up data centers, despite the environmental risks; pushes for further deregulation of the technology and more. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americas AI Action Plan has three pillars: innovation, infrastructure and international diplomacy and security, the authors, which include David Sacks, Trumps AI and crypto czar, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, wrote in the plan. Within those three pillars, the administration had quite a bit to say about its vision for state AI regulations, the future of work and Americas potential to up its game on manufacturing robots and other AI-adjacent technologies. State AI regulations Trump and his allies have been continued proponents of deregulating AI to encourage faster growth; the plan shows the presidents ambitions have not ceased. In an early version of Trumps now-passed megabill, Republicans had proposed a moratorium on state AI laws, which would have prevented states from creating and enforcing AI laws for 10 years. Proponents cited a need to allow technological innovation to grow, rather than being stifled by patchwork legislation. Ultimately, the Senate axed that provision from the final version of the Big, Beautiful Bill, which meant states continued to carry the authority to propose and codify AI laws that serve their immediate needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it seems the administration wasnt satisfied with that resolution; in the plan, Trump and his allies said the U.S. needs to remove red tap and onerous regulation. The federal government should not allow AI-related federal funding to be directed toward states with burdensome AI regulations that waste these funds, but should also not interfere with states rights to pass prudent laws that are not unduly restrictive to innovation, the plan states. The document lacks details on how states regulations would be judged, but some blue states, like California and New York, have already started passing laws protecting workers rights against AIwith support from unions and laborers. That could see the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) required to consider a states AI regulatory climate when making funding decisions and limit funding if the states AI regulatory regimes may hinder the effectiveness of that funding or award. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a speech at an event called Winning the AI Race on Wednesday evening, Trump said regulation could squash American companies chance at beating competitors. If you regulate them too much, you kill the source of American genius and technological power, Trump said, noting that former President Joe Bidens approach to AI would have prevented further growth for AI companies. When youre allowed to be free of horrible, foolish regulationand youre going to have regulation, but its going to be sensible, smart regulationtheres nobody whos going to beat you, he continued. The plan also recommends that federal agencies should be able to take appropriate action on any federal regulations that could stymie AI innovation or adoption. That could extend to existing laws that werent created with AI in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the state side, whats interesting about the policing of AI legislation is that the plan later lays out recommendations related to providing funding to upskill and reskill workers impacted by AIbut doesnt make it clear how existing laws might stymie such funding. The future of work Throughout the plan, the Trump administration attempts to tout its worker-first AI agenda. By accelerating productivity and creating entirely new industries, AI can help America build an economy that delivers more pathways to economic opportunity for American workers. But it will also transform how work gets done across all industries and occupations, demanding a serious workforce response to help workers navigate that transition, the plan states. The Trump administration will advance a priority set of actions to expand AI literacy and skills development, continuously evaluate AIs impact on the labor market and pilot new innovations to rapidly retrain and help workers thrive in an AI-driven economy. The plan goes on to say that some employers could receive tax benefits for offering AI training at scale if its efforts are pointed at preserving jobs for American workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats more, the administration has stated it has an interest in funding rapid retraining for individuals impacted by AI-related job displacement, with states leading the way on identifying these workers and using allocated funds to aid workers. Its unclear how such funds would be distributed, particularly against the backdrop of the administrations commentary about withholding funds to states that have restrictive AI laws in place. New York, for instance, has put several laws into place relative to AIs role in specific professions, including the Fashion Workers Act, which aims to protect models and other workers from AI-based exploitation. But Governor Kathy Hochul has also proposedand now, quietly implementedvoluntary mechanisms for reporting AI-influenced layoffs under the states Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN Act) that could be one way to track the type of job losses Trumps plan speaks about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear if the blue state, which has a mechanism for tracking technologys influence on job loss, would still be eligible to receive funding for retraining since it has started proposing and implementing AI-focused regulations. Cam Myers, CEO of automated apparel manufacturing company CreateMe Technologies, said that as reskilling and upskilling plans continue to take shape, apparel purveyors and manufacturers should be prepared to help their employees keep pace with emerging technologies. Fashion and apparel must be part of any national strategy around AI and workforce development. While often overlooked in tech policy conversations, this industry employs millions globally and still relies heavily on outdated, manual processes, Myers told Sourcing Journal. As automation and AI enter the space, we have an opportunity to transform traditional manufacturing jobs into more technical, creative, and digitally enabled roles. Outlook on manufacturing robotics and AI-adjacent technologies As part of the AI Action Plan, the administration states its intent to amp up its manufacturing prowess for AI and its complementary technologies, including robotics, which have become a key part of some manufacturers and third-party logistics players toolsets in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI, robotics and related technologies create opportunities for novel capabilities in manufacturing and logistics, the report noted. The federal government should prioritize investment in these emerging technologies and usher in a new industrial renaissance. Two categories of particular interest include drones and robotics, both of which have the power to significantly change the logistics landscape in the years ahead. Myers said that, if the Trump administration works to bring domestic apparel manufacturing back in an at-scale way, easier access to factory robots could positively impact the sector. Increased domestic production of robotics and automation equipment could meaningfully reduce friction for apparel brands trying to modernize, Myers said. Local access to these technologies would shorten development cycles, reduce reliance on global shipping delays and improve collaboration between innovators and manufacturers. Thats especially critical in apparel, where the pace of trends demands more agile production. President Trump on Tuesday announced that his administration had reached an agreement with Japan on trade, which would see the U.S. impose a 15 percent tariff on Japanese goods. Trump posted on Truth Social that Japan would invest $550 billion in projects in the United States, though he did not specify what those investments would entail. He also said Japan would open its markets to U.S. automobiles, rice and other agricultural products. Japan will also pay a 15 percent tariff to export its goods into the United States, Trump said. That is lower than the 25 percent tariff Trump had threatened to impose on Japan beginning Aug. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan, Trump posted. Japan is one of the United Statess largest trading partners. The U.S. exported roughly $80 billion in goods to Japan in 2024, while Japan exported roughly $148 billion to the United States. Trump has been announcing a series of trade deals with other nations leading up to Aug. 1, when he has threatened to raise tariffs on trading partners. The increase in tariffs comes after the president had backed off sweeping reciprocal tariffs against dozens of other nations. The president earlier Tuesday announced the contours of a trade agreement with the Philippines after its leader met with Trump in the Oval Office. The White House has previously touted agreements with the United Kingdom, Indonesia and Vietnam, as well as a framework with China. Advertisement 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. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced a trade deal with the Philippines after a White House meeting with the countrys leader, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Under the agreement, American goods shipped to the Philippines wont face any duties, while Philippine exports to the US will see a 19% tariff. That figure is in line with rates other Southeast Asian nations are set to face. Such deals mark short-term wins for US negotiators, but risk undermining the regions competitiveness and sovereignty, turning its relationship with Washington into a rent-seeking system rather than a strategic partnership, a Stimson Center expert argued. That dynamic could accelerate what many in the West fear: a Southeast Asian pivot toward China. Nine people died and many were displaced in a a June flash flood in Wheeling, W.Va. (Zac Jebbia | Courtesy photo) The federal government has approved West Virginias request for a disaster declaration related to flash flooding that killed nine people and displaced others in the northern part of the state last month. President Donald Trump announced the disaster declaration Tuesday evening on the social media platform Truth Social, saying that he had granted the state $11.7 million for severe flooding and tornadoes that happened in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just finished speaking with their wonderful Governor, Patrick Morrisey, and look forward to seeing the State make a full recovery. I love West Virginia! he wrote. Morrisey announced Tuesday that individual assistance has been approved for Marion and Ohio counties, which occurred after heavy rains that started June 14. The flooding killed nine people in Ohio County. It also destroyed an apartment building in Fairmont, displacing its residents. President Trump and his administration has shown once again that they will step up and support West Virginia, Morrisey said in the news release. I want to thank everyone involved in securing Individual Assistance for Ohio and Marion counties and providing us another tool to help these communities make a full recovery. Morrisey formally requested the disaster declaration on June 20. One month after the floods, state Democrats criticized the Trump administration, demanding answers about why it had not yet approved the disaster declaration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement, West Virginias congressional delegation Reps. Riley Moore, R-W.Va., and Carol Miller, R-W.Va, and Sens. Jim Justice, R-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., applauded the declaration and said they were grateful for it to the Trump administration. They had previously written a letter to Trump and to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in support of the state getting such a declaration. The flooding that occurred saw devastating loss of life and property, and we are glad that much-needed help is on the way to help these communities recover and rebuild, they wrote in the statement. We commend the bravery of the first responders who sprang into action and the local leaders, churches, and charities who have been on the ground helping victims begin to rebuild their lives. The declaration means that homeowners and residents in those counties who suffered loss and damage in the flash floods are eligible for individual assistance, including emergency repairs to homes, private bridges, private roads, temporary housing, transportation, moving and storage, funeral expenses, uninsured and underinsured personal property losses, as well as expenses for medical, dental, legal and child care services. Residents should first file claims with their insurance providers and then file for assistance from FEMA in one of the following ways: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov Call FEMAs helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. Download the FEMA mobile app from your phones app store. When applying, residents should have the following information ready: Social security number Address of damaged residence Description of damage and losses Current mailing address and phone number Insurance information if available Total household annual income SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE An ice storm leaves a tree coated in Gaylord. March 30, 2025. Photo courtesy of NOAA's National Weather Service. The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Wednesday that it would be providing public assistance to 13 Michigan counties and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians to supplement ongoing recovery efforts after the state was rocked by ice storms in March. The storms lasted three days between March 28-30, resulting in severe ice accumulation in northern Michigan with significant impacts to critical services throughout the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FEMAs commitment to assisting Michigan came Wednesday, noting that federal funding would be available now to the state, tribal and eligible local governments, while certain nonprofit organizations would be eligible on a cost-sharing basis for repairs and replacement of qualifying facilities that were damaged in the storms. Assistance will be provided to Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Kalkaska, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX FEMAs Darrin Ricketts has been named the federal coordinator for the operation in affected areas, the agency said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, in a statement, said she spoke with President Donald Trump on Tuesday, and he confirmed that communities in northern Michigan would start receiving FEMA funding soon. With this initial support, we can help communities recover costs associated with cleanup efforts, Whitmer said. I want to thank the president and our congressional delegation for supporting our request, and I look forward to collaborating further on much-needed additional resources. Michiganders across the state stepped up to help our neighbors, and while other parts of our request remain under review, we will continue advocating together to help Northern Michigan recover and rebuild. The National Weather Service office in Gaylord following an ice storm. March 30, 2025. Photo courtesy of NOAAs National Weather Service. Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist added that many people and businesses are still recovering from the damage, and the federal declaration would help them get back on their feet. While this storm was devastating, Michiganders are strong, and we will stand tall together, Gilchrist said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Watersmeet) and U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Township) said the money would help in a big way. The state of Michigan and local emergency managers continue to work hard because this job is not finished, and Ill keep fighting to help our communities get the resources they need to bounce back stronger, Peters said in a statement. Bergman thanked Trump and his administration for the support. This long-awaited decision unlocks critical resources to help our communities recover and rebuild as quickly as possible, Bergman said in a statement. Its been a true team effort from local agencies to state and federal partners. Northern Michigan is no stranger to tough times but its in moments like these, when our communities rally and move forward together, that the true spirit of Northern Michigan shines brightest. A car inside a home in the Gavilan Trailer Park in Ruidoso on Thursday, July 10, 2025. President Donald Trump approved additional emergency federal aid in the wake of repeated floods in Ruidoso, but federal cuts to emergency response and preperation raise uncertainty for state responders.(Danielle Prokop / Source NM) President Donald Trump on Wednesday morning approved a major disaster declaration for New Mexico flood victims, following deadly flash floods in Lincoln County earlier this month. According to a news release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the approval makes federal funds available to impacted Lincoln County residents for temporary housing and repairs, and also opens up loans for uninsured property, among other programs. Federal funding also is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis with 75% reimbursement for emergency repairs and replacements of damaged facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham requested the aid in the aftermath of the fatal July 8 flooding that killed three people. The state received partial approval for some aid on July 10, with both the governor and the states congressional delegation promising to continue pushing for the major disaster declaration approved on Wednesday. This federal declaration delivers the action we sought for a community that has shown incredible resilience through repeated disasters, the governor said in a statement. The people of Lincoln County deserve every resource we can provide, and we will continue working until every family and business in New Mexico has fully recovered. State officials are meeting with FEMA and securing documents for additional federal funds for permanent repairs to public infrastructure and for flood damage in Chaves, Otero and Valencia counties from monsoon rains this season, said Danielle Silva, a spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Monsoon rains have continued to flood roads and cause power outages in Ruidoso, including Tuesday. While officials reported no water rescues during heavy rains Tuesday, debris sloughing off the burn scars caused a three-foot wave of mud that blocked roads. The Lincoln County emergency manager reported several road closures Tuesday due to water or debris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The confluence of federal cuts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and recent deadly flooding disasters in Texas and New Mexico have caused uncertainty for which resources remain available to prepare or respond in the aftermath of extreme weather, occurring more frequently under climate change. There are certain resources the federal government brings to the table that the state just cant do, DHSEM State Director Ali Rye told Source NM on Tuesday. The New Mexico National Guard remains stationed in Ruidoso to address debris removal or further rescue operations, she said, adding that the state was addressing short-term housing for people whose homes the flooding made unlivable. The governor has given the direction that we take care of New Mexicans the best way we know how and then well figure out on the back end how we get paid for it, get reimbursed, Rye said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rye noted that while the state is currently well-positioned to respond to further disasters, the uncertainty for how FEMA or federal resources will continue to operate could change that picture. I dont know what level of repercussions may roll downhill, but I will say that any impact to federal funding, specifically human funding, will hit us across the board, she said. Rye said state emergency officials have pushed for FEMA reform, saying the agency needs to adapt from its establishment 30 years ago. Its very outdated, very cumbersome and burdensome on areas that are trying to recover from the worst days of their lives, she said. But we cant afford for FEMA to go away. Disaster assistance Residents can apply for assistance online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. MST. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX President Donald Trump received a gift from an unexpected source on Monday: Hunter Biden. No, it wasnt a laptop this time. Instead, it came in the form of two podcast interviews in which a fiery Biden went on expletive-laden tirades against everyone from George Clooney to the president of El Salvador while swinging at his fathers political enemies. The former presidents son, apparently unsatisfied with damaging his fathers bid for re-election, may now be doing the same to his post-presidential reputation. The 55-year-old Biden calmly explained the process for cooking crack cocaine before devolving into angry rants against people who questioned his familys judgment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden appeared for an interview with former All Gas No Brakes host Andrew Callaghan, sitting down for three hours and riffing on a wide range of topics, but centering a good amount of focus on the downfall of the Biden campaign in 2024. He verbally attacked Democrats for abandoning his father. He argued the disunity among voters over Joe Bidens withdrawal was the leading factor that caused millions to stay home, not the general disgust voters showed towards a party that seemingly covered up Bidens decline, or the political consequences of the U.S.-supported carnage in Gaza. Hunter Biden attacked George Clooney, the Pod Save America co-hosts, and even Nancy Pelosi in a fiery interview with Andrew Callaghan (YouTube -) Regarding Bidens performance at a June debate with Trump, where he appeared confused and unable to finish sentences at times, his son chalked up to the following revelation: the presidents doctors had him on Ambien. He's 81 years old. He's tired as s**t. They give him Ambien to be able to sleep. He gets up on stage and he looks like he's a deer in the headlights. And it feeds into f*****g story that anybody wants to tell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After personally attacking Pod Save America co-hosts and George Clooney, it became clear: this was an airing of grievances by Hunter. Kamala Harris, his fathers former running mate, and the progressive wing that sacrificed some of their credibility with their base, were the only Democrats spared his wrath. The centrist wing of the party he labeled weak-kneed cowards and backstabbers. It begs the question, then: why is Hunter Biden making multiple podcast appearances and stirring up negative headlines for Democrats at a time when President Donald Trump and his administration are under fire from MAGA over the release of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein? Mondays press tour by the former first son was ill-timed, though it didnt fully break through the multi-day news cycle surrounding Epstein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported the contents of a birthday card Ghislaine Maxwell allegedly compiled for Epstein in 2003. Trump has strongly denied that he ever wrote anything for the card and has sued the outlet and Rupert Murdoch over the report. The Epstein coverage has continued this week, but if theres anyone with the power to provide a distraction, its Hunter Biden furiously threatening to invade El Salvador while discussing his former crack habits. His mere presence in the news cycle is also a reminder of his fathers pardon. Biden carried on through much of 2024 vowing not to let his son escape justice on tax and gun charges, even as there were no plans by the DoJ to charge him for his documented drug abuse. That promise fell apart, and Hunter is now free and unburdened to hamstring those he perceives as having betrayed his family at the worst possible time. The Trump administrations massive prisoner swap last week, which saw 10 U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents imprisoned in Venezuela freed in exchange for about 250 Venezuelans deported and detained in El Salvador amid Trumps immigration crackdown, has been framed as an effort to keep America safe. But as part of that exchange, Trump freed one man convicted of a grisly murder. Dahud Hanid Ortiz, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Venezuela, was not a political prisoner. Rather, he was convicted of brutally murdering three people at a law office in Spain in 2016, El Pais reported. Ortiz is exactly the kind of person Trump lies about every immigrant south of the border being, and yet hes being welcomed back on American soil with open arms and warm smiles. Ortiz, a former Marine, was convicted and jailed for a triple homicide in which he axed one man in the head, slashed a womans throat, and beat another woman to death before lighting the office on fire. Ortiz then fled to Venezuela, where he had dual citizenship and could not be extradited. He was arrested shortly thereafter and last year was sentenced to 30 years in prison. Thanks to Trump, the convicted murderer barely served his sentence. And even if you think the Venezuelan governments conviction of Ortiz was unreliable, consider that the Spanish government tried to arrest him first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ortiz can be seen smiling for a picture on a State Department plane with the nine other freed prisoners, holding an American flag. The Trump administration rounded up immigrants without due process and sent them to rot in one of the most inhumane prisons in the world, only to use them in a prison swap that freed a convicted murderer. Just as every other action hes taken has proved, it isnt actually about keeping violent, dangerous criminals out, its about making sure more people of color dont come in. If the former were true, Ortiz would still be locked up in Venezuela right now. President Donald Trump denied disaster assistance for Western Maryland on Wednesday that Gov. Wes Moore requested following massive floods that hit the region in May. In a statement Wednesday, Moore, a Democrat, said that the flooding, which caused evacuations in Garret and Allegany counties after Georges Creek overflowed following three days of extreme rainfall, clearly met disaster assistance criteria under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The floods occurred between May 12 and May 14. Moore requested disaster assistance June 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Moores statement, assessments performed by FEMA, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and local officials estimated $15.8 million in emergency response costs and infrastructural damage, including including more than 200 homes, numerous businesses, roads and bridges, railroads, sewer systems, drinking water, and public utilities. Moore said that, historically, the president awards disaster assistance if the joint damage assessment shows eligible costs over the county and state indicator. Marylands indicator is $11,674,953. Allegany Countys is $321,460. These estimates are above and beyond the thresholds for disaster assistance set by FEMA, said Moore. The state provided financial assistance to Allegany County in the wake of the floods $459,375 from the State Disaster Recovery Fund, and $1 million through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. We will continue to stand with our fellow Marylanders in Western Maryland as they rebuild from the damage caused in May, said Moore. _____ Welcome to Foreign Policys Africa Brief. The highlights this week: Africans express outrage over the Trump administrations deportation of migrants to Eswatini, the European Union imposes a fourth round of sanctions on officials and companies linked to Sudans civil war, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels pledge to sign a peace deal. Sign up to receive Africa Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up to receive Africa Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time. Enter your email Sign Up Loading... Signed Up Trump Deports Migrants to Eswatini U.S. President Donald Trumps deportation of migrants to African nations is sparking anger across the continent. Last week, Washington sent five deportees from Cuba, Jamaica, Laos, Vietnam, and Yemen to the tiny nation of Eswatini, shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court approved the deportation of eight men to South Sudan, only one of whom was South Sudanese. Critics say the Trump administration is leveraging foreign aid, visa bans, security cooperation, and tariffs to pressure African nations to accept U.S. deportees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This situation sets a dangerous precedent whereby powerful nations may use smaller, economically weaker states as dumping grounds for unwanted individuals, the Multi Stakeholder Forum, a coalition of Eswatinis civil society groups, said in a statement. All five migrants deported to Eswatini were convicted of crimes; Tricia McLaughlin, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, claimed on social media that the men are so uniquely barbaric that their home countries refused to take them back. Eswatini has said that the men are being held in solitary confinement at a maximum-security prison. Although Eswatini said that it plans to liaise with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to repatriate the migrants, it is unclear how it will convince their countries of origin to accept them. The IOM, meanwhile, said that it has not been involved in the process or been asked to help with repatriation efforts. The details of the United States deals with Eswatini and South Sudan remain classified, but in March, the Trump administration agreed to pay $6 million to El Salvador for mass deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is governed by an absolute monarch, and dissent in the country is violently crushed. More than half of its population of 1.2 million people live on less than $4 a day. Although Eswatinis trade with the United States makes up just 1.7 percent of its total trade, the countrys trade with neighboring South Africawhich faces 30 percent U.S. tariffs starting Aug. 1comprises almost 70 percent. Eswatinis Central Bank has warned that an economically weaker South Africa would affect Eswatinis exports. Analysts expect more African nations to accept third-country deportees in return for favorable U.S. policies. At a White House lunch earlier this month, Trump urged the leaders of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal to accept deported nationals of third countries. Rwanda said in May that it was in talks with the United States on a possible migrant deal. The Trump administration has also identified Angola, Benin, Equatorial Guinea, Libya, and Moldova as potential recipient countries, according to internal government documents obtained by CBS News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nigeria, meanwhile, has been a notable holdout. Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar said earlier this month that his country will resist U.S. pressure to accept deportees, despite Washingtons new restrictions on visas issued to Nigerian nationals. The Week Ahead Thursday, July 24: Ghana releases its mid-year budget. Friday, July 25, to Saturday, July 26: The EurAfrican Forum is held in Cascais, Portugal. Saturday, July 26: The Womens Africa Cup of Nations final is held in Rabat, Morocco. Tuesday, July 29: The United Nations Security Council is set to renew sanctions against the Central African Republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Were Watching EU sanctions Sudan. On Friday, the European Union imposed a fourth round of sanctions on two Sudanese officials and two companies linked to fighting in the countrys ongoing civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The EU targeted RSF commander Hussein Barsham and SAF commander Abu Aqla Mohamed Kaikal, respectively, for leading operations that resulted in mass atrocities and targeting a historically marginalized group. It also sanctioned Alkhaleej Bank, which is largely owned by companies connected to family members of RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, and Red Rock Mining, which provides funds and weapons to the SAF. In recent weeks, the RSF has been battling to gain full control of North Kordofan state, where more than 450 civilians were killed the weekend of July 12. Meanwhile, the SAF has launched an offensive in West Kordofan, which has killed dozens of civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump reignites dam dispute. Trump said last week that his administration was working on resolving Egypt and Ethiopias dispute over a mega-dam on the Nile. Egypt has long claimed that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), constructed between 2011 and 2023, threatens its water supply from the Nile. If I am Egypt, I want to have water in the Nile, said Trump, who falsely claimed the dam was stupidly funded by the United States. (Ethiopia maintains the dam was entirely domestically funded, but it was financed in part through loans from the Export-Import Bank of China.) Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, an ally of Trump, praised Washingtons stance, while Trumps foray into the dispute has angered Ethiopian officials. During his first term, Trump failed to negotiate a deal to ease tensions over the GERD. At the time, Trump said he deserved a Nobel Peace Prize for having deescalated the dispute. Trump held grudges against Ethiopia for not adhering to his self-styled mediation efforts between Ethiopia and Egypt eight years ago, Fekahmed Negash, a former Ethiopian GERD negotiator, recently told Ethiopian newspaper the Reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement M23 peace deal. On Saturday, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels signed a declaration of principles to end fighting in Qatar-brokered talks. The declaration laid out a plan for a permanent cease-fire. Massad Boulos, Trumps Africa advisor, who played a key role in brokering the Congo-Rwanda deal in June, was present at the signing. However, details of the deal still need to be hashed out, and doubts remain in Congo over the prospect of lasting peace. While a Congolese government spokesperson has said that the agreement included the rebels non-negotiable withdrawal from territories it has seized in eastern Congo, M23 leaders have suggested otherwise. Pretorias corruption inquiry. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced last week that he was suspending Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and opening a corruption inquiry into allegations that Mchunu had colluded with crime syndicates. Lt. Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the police chief in KwaZulu-Natal province, claimed in a press conference earlier this month that Mchunu received payments from a corruption suspect and had shut down a unit that investigated politically motivated killings in order to shield politicians, prosecutors, police officials, and members of the judiciary with ties to criminal gangs. Mchunu has denied the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramaphosa has been under fire lately for failing to discipline current and former members of his African National Congress party for alleged corruption. This Week in Critical Minerals KoBold Metals, a U.S. mining start-up backed by Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, announced on Friday that it signed an agreement with Congo to acquire the contested Manono lithium project in northern Congo, a few weeks after the Trump administration secured a minerals-for-security deal with the country. Since 2023, Australian-based AVZ Minerals has been in a legal battle with the Congolese government and Chinas state-backed Zijin Mining over the rights to Manono, which is one of the worlds largest untapped lithium deposits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congo revoked AVZs mining permit in 2023 and later awarded the rights to a subsidiary of Zijin, leading AVZ to bring the case to the International Chamber of Commerces International Court of Arbitration and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). In March, AVZ won a legal victory over Congo, with the International Court of Arbitration ordering Congos state-owned Cominiere to pay around $42.5 million for failing to comply with previous rulings. Two months later, AVZ agreed on a framework for KoBold to acquire its interests in Manono. But that has not yet happened, and on Monday, AVZ said that the new Congo-KoBold deal violates an interim arbitration order by the ICSID. For now, KoBold plans to invest more than $1 billion in the project and has to apply for exploration permits before July 31. FPs Most Read This Week Bidens Team Lied About Gaza. Its Time to Hold Them Accountable. by Matthew Duss When the Threat Is Inside the White House by Tim Weiner Why Rubios Asia Visit Was a Total Bust by Derek Grossman What Were Reading Destruction of contraceptives. In the Guardian, Carter Sherman reports that the U.S. government plans to destroy $9.7 million worth of contraceptives that were almost certainly intended for women across Africa as part of its dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). A State Department spokesperson said that it would cost millions of dollars to rebrand and sell the contraceptives, but a congressional aide told the Guardian that two-thirds of the stock did not feature USAID labels. This action would be a waste of U.S. taxpayer dollars as well as an abdication of U.S. global leadership in preventing unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions and maternal deaths, Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski wrote in a letter on June 30 to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. President Donald Trump criticized copyright enforcement efforts and state-level AI regulations Wednesday as he launched the White Houses AI Action Plan on a mission to dominate the industry. In remarks delivered at a Winning the AI Race summit hosted by the All-In Podcast and the Hill and Valley Forum in Washington, Trump said stringent copyright enforcement was unrealistic for the AI industry and would kneecap U.S. companies trying to compete globally, particularly against China. You cant be expected to have a successful AI program when every single article, book or anything else that you've read or studied, you're supposed to pay for, he said. You just cant do it because its not doable. ... Chinas not doing it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps comments were a riff as his 28-page AI Action Plan did not wade into copyright and administration officials told reporters the issue should be left to the courts to decide. Trump also signed three executive orders. One will fast track federal permitting, streamline reviews and do everything possible to expedite construction of all major AI infrastructure projects, Trump said. Another expands American exports of AI hardware and software. A third order bans the federal government from procuring AI technology that has been infused with partisan bias or ideological agendas, as Trump put it. Luminaries of the AI industry attended Trumps speech, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Advanced Micro Devices CEO Lisa Su and Palantir CTO Shyam Sankar. Trump echoed tech companies complaints about state AI laws creating a patchwork of regulation. You cant have one state holding you up, he said. We need one common sense federal standard that supersedes all states, supersedes everybody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His Action Plan includes directions to the Office of Management and Budget to limit AI-related funding to states with regulation that might hinder the fundings effectiveness. It also directs the Federal Communications Commission to check whether state AI regulations interfere with the agencys ability to carry out its duties under the Communications Act of 1934. Civil rights advocates and tech critics raised alarms over the plans approach to federal permitting and oversight rollbacks, and its close alignment with the tech industry. Donald Trump really gets it. This is according to no less an authority than Sam Altman, OpenAIs CEO, who was commenting on the U.S. presidents understanding of AI and ways to maximize its potential. Surely, the fact that Trump blocked time on his very first full day in office to line Altman up along with other tech luminaries in the White Houses Roosevelt Room to announce a half-a-trillion-dollar AI infrastructure project tells us that Trump gets AIs national significance. What about the presidents executive order facilitating AIs energy needs by expanding Americas nuclear energy capacity, followed up by a presidential AI and Energy Summit? Dont these actions show Trump gets which levers the U.S. government must pull to power the rapid build-out of AI infrastructure? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Or what about scuttling former President Joe Bidens executive order calling for guardrails on AI in order to make way for new executive orders greenlighting acceleration of American AI? What does this show if not Trump understanding the urgency to advance AI innovation? It is not all about greasing the skids on the supply sidethe Trump administration gets the demand-side needs as well. Domestically, there is focus on high impact use cases, with recent government directives on the acquisition of AI and its use for federal government purposes. In his inaugural overseas trip in his second term, Trump traveled bearing AI gifts, resulting in a series of deals giving the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia access to highly sought-after high-performance AI chips. It seems he already imagines a new world order, leapfrogging past relics such as NATO or the G-7 or development aid programs, where exclusive access to buyers of American AI is the new raison detre for U.S. influence around the world. Domestically, even Trumps signature One Big Beautiful Bill, which had nothing to do with AI, made room for an AI acceleration provision tucked within it. The provision would have blocked U.S. states from attempting to regulate AI for a decade. The Senate voted 99-1 to kill the provision. At the very least, Trump can say: Hey, I tried. Putting aside the honor he so covets of one day becoming a Nobel laureate, has Trump already sealed his legacy as the AI president? Is he to AI what JFK was to putting a man on the moon? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In answering this question, we must analyze the wisdom of Trumps central contribution, the through line of his AI policies: to do away with even a superficial interest in the government regulating or establishing any guardrails on AI development and use. And to appreciate the nuanced relationship between regulation and innovation, consider the curious development following the Senates 99-1 vote to let states develop their regulatory frameworks. Many giants of Big TechAmazon, Google, and Microsoftare now pushing for federal regulations; some are open to a mix of federal and state regulations, while others prefer that federal regulations preempt any state ones that might emerge. This might strike the casual observer as a bit odd since the presumptive AI president is offering a green light, and yet the companies are asking for an amber signal. Clearly, Big Tech knows a lot about the technology. Is there something about AI that gives lie to the Trump really gets it claim? Of course, the tech companies prefer not to have to deal with multiple state-driven regulations that would add to their compliance costs and time, but there is more to this plea for federal regulation from the AI producers. Contrary to the belief that regulation only serves to hobble the revolutionary advances of new technologies, history has shown that public intervention is essential to private innovation. In fact, this is the moment in AIs development trajectory where government guardrails are indispensable, and here are some of the reasons why. Easing adoption: Regulation serves many objectives, but one of its central benefits would be a common template for AI developers to demonstrate that they have addressed the numerous concerns that have led to rising user distrust in AI. According to a YouGov survey, a majority of Americans, regardless of political affiliation, are concerned about the technology, especially about misinformation, privacy, and ethical issues and biasand as a result, they would prefer some degree of regulation. Distrust delays adoption, which in turn diminishes the return on the stratospheric investments that AI developers are making. Indeed, employee distrust is holding back AI implementation across the U.S. workforce; even Keith Sonderling, Trumps own deputy labor secretary, admitted to it at a recent Business Roundtable event. Lending clarity and standards: Beyond enforcing trust-building attributes, regulations can establish common requirements for data quality, model documentation, and risk assessment. Such requirementswhile seeming prosaic and bureaucraticbring a degree of clarity that benefits all participants in a rapidly emerging industry. Standardized disclosures reduce compliance costs; known rules of play give competitors the incentives to strategize while investing in the minimum requirements for safe and responsible AI development; and guardrails that avoid the most serious of risks can create a safer environment for experimentation, which is so essential for innovation. Standards also increase interoperability, which in earlier waves of digital technologies has vastly expanded the opportunities for innovation and new applications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In general, in the absence of clear guidelines, well-understood governance, and accountability frameworks and known rules of play, companies have few benchmarks for how much to commit in terms of resources dedicated to different aspects of AI development. Consequently, they run the risk of both under- and over-investing. Without a standardized approach, it is hard to report on the returns on investments or the risks by referring to commonly accepted metrics, which, in turn, leads to inefficiencies in capital allocation. Catalyzing competitive innovation: Well-designed regulation can ensure fair and legal access to critical resources, such as data, compute, and infrastructure. Uniformly applicable rules help competitors of all sizes participate without having to rely on extensive legal and administrative expenditures. A nationwide standard or a core framework is helpful and preferable to multiple regulations developed in different states. The latter, in turn, is preferable to having no regulations at all and ought to be harmonized wherever feasible. This creates opportunities for smaller players to enter and compete alongside large incumbents. Establishing data intellectual property rights and anti-monopoly regulations not only creates a more level and innovative playing field but also enhances a technology that needs diverse perspectives and a breadth of applications from a breadth of providers. Establishing global competitiveness: Beyond U.S. borders, American AI models developed without guardrails could end up at a competitive disadvantage if they develop a reputation for being insufficiently attentive to trust-building features. Moreover, regulators in jurisdictions such as the European Unionas well as international companies, users, and investorsmay require additional assurances that AI risks have been addressed before they pay for the products and use them. Having regulations preemptively in place helps American companies align with minimum standards and not have to guess about a backlash down the road or a new, harsher set of regulations established later because of a crisis. The choice, ultimately, is not between regulation and innovation, but between smart regulation that facilitates beneficial innovation, competition, and productive adoption and regulatory failures that undermine all of these. Far from being an enemy of innovation, regulation is an essential partner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement History offers numerous examples of missing this connection and the consequences, from drugs, toys, electronics, baby food, or cosmetics. There are examples from all of these categories of products released without adequate regulation leading to everything from public health crises to product recalls. Consider the 2008 financial crash, triggered by unregulated financial products leading to a domino of systemic disasters. The Trump AI team would benefit from a study of the experiences of new tobacco products, such as electronic nicotine delivery systems and nicotine pouches. These were rolled out with minimal regulatory controls and caused a backlash in key markets such as Indonesia. Then theres failing to harmonize regulations across major jurisdictions such as the United States and Europe, contributing to a loss of public confidence in genetically modified organisms. Trump clearly gets the move fast and break things mantra of tech, as he seems to have applied it to all other aspects of his governance. But that mantra has not aged well; it was the wrong one for earlier waves of tech innovation and is certainly wrong for AI. By Humeyra Pamuk and Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Europe this week for meetings on Israel's war in Gaza and a range of other issues, a U.S. official said on Tuesday, adding Witkoff will continue pushing for a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave. Axios reported that Witkoff is expected to depart for Rome on Wednesday and arrive on Thursday for a meeting with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer and a senior Qatari envoy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If sufficient progress is made, Witkoff will travel from Rome to Doha toward the end of the week to secure a deal, the news website reported, citing a U.S. and an Israeli source. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT Talks on a proposal for a 60-day Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas are being mediated by Qatar and Egypt with Washington's backing while the humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian enclave from U.S. ally Israel's military assault continues to mount. The ongoing war in Gaza has seen two ceasefires thus far, the most recent of which ended after two months when Israeli strikes killed over 400 Palestinians on March 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CONTEXT The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, Israeli tallies show. Israel's subsequent military assault has killed over 59,000 Palestinians, Gaza's health ministry says. The assault has also caused a hunger crisis, internally displaced Gaza's entire population and prompted accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies the accusations. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Chris Reese and Saad Sayeed) Donald Trump has long called climate change a hoax. Some of his appointees at the Environmental Protection Agency have made clear over the first six months of the presidents second term that they feel similarly. The EPA is reportedly preparing to rescind a landmark 2009 declaration, known as the endangerment finding, which determined that greenhouse gas emissions pose a danger to humans. The finding was the legal predicate for regulating emissions under the Clean Air Act, as well as for the governments ability to regulate car emissions and pollution more broadly. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said in March that the agency would consider rescinding the declaration, asserting that the administration would not sacrifice national prosperity, energy security, and the freedom of our people for an agenda that throttles our industries, our mobility, and our consumer choice while benefiting adversaries overseas. The New York Times reports that the EPA will make a similar argument in rescinding the declaration, claiming that the real danger to human health is climate regulation on automakers, for instance which leads to higher prices for consumers. The Washington Post notes that the draft of the formal rescission of the declaration would formally eliminate federal regulations on auto emissions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The news of the impending order to trash the endangerment finding comes days after the EPA announced it is going to totally eliminate its Office of Research and Development. The EPAs scientific research arm studied the effects of greenhouse gases, chemicals, wildfires, and other hazards, providing analyses that undergirded federal environmental policy. Under President Trumps leadership, EPA has taken a close look at our operations to ensure the agency is better equipped than ever to deliver on our core mission of protecting human health and the environment while Powering the Great American Comeback, Zeldin said in a statement. This reduction in force will ensure we can better fulfill that mission while being responsible stewards of your hard-earned tax dollars. Trump has been doing what he can to hamstring Americas ability to combat climate change since taking office. He promptly pulled the U.S. out of the Paris Agreement, signed an order clamping down on offshore wind, revoked former President Joe Bidens electric vehicle mandate, and declared a national energy emergency allowing fossil fuel companies to drill, baby, drill. Trump has continued to trash clean energy initiatives, and the so-called Big Beautiful Bill he coerced Republicans into passing is a veritable bonanza for polluters. Zeldin has been a willing participant in Trumps war against the environment, despite heading up the agency that is theoretically supposed to be protecting it. Zeldin seems more concerned with protecting his standing in the administration. The biggest reason why were here is that this is the 100th day of the most consequential, historic first 100 days in the history of this country, he gushed during a Cabinet meeting to commemorate Trumps first 100 days in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EPAs reported decision to rescind the endangerment finding is certainly consequential and historic only in the worst way possible. 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. A few days ago, as the Jeffrey Epstein scandal gripped Washington, Senator Ron Wyden offered a striking revelation in an interview with The New York Times. The Oregon Democrat said that his investigators had discovered that four big banks had flagged to the Treasury Department $1.5 billion in potentially suspicious money transfers involving Epstein, much of which appeared to be related to his massive sex-trafficking network. The revelationwhich emerged via Wydens work as ranking Democrat on the Finance Committeeratified widespread suspicions that there is still much we dont know about Epsteins relations with some of the most powerful and wealthy elites in the world in the lead-up to his 2019 arrest on sex-trafficking charges. Now Wyden is ratcheting things up once again. Wydens office just sent a new letter to Attorney General Pam Bondiwhich The New Republic obtainedsuggesting seven potent lines of inquiry that the Justice Department could follow, right now, to dig more deeply into Epsteins web of financial relations with global elites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am convinced that the DOJ ignored evidence found in the U.S. Treasury Departments Epstein file, a binder that contains extensive details on the mountains of cash Epstein received from prominent businessmen that Epstein used to finance his criminal network, Wyden writes in the letter. The Treasury Department has this information because thats where banks file suspicious activity reports, or SARS. Wydens letter says his staff has documented that Epstein-related filings by banks contain information on more than 4,725 wire transfers involving Epsteins accounts, all of which merit further investigation. Wydens letter seeks to demonstrate what the Trump administration is not doing to examine Epsteins financial relations with the rich and powerful. This comes after Bondis recent announcement that theres no evidence of any Epstein client list, which appeared to close the door on any release of the Epstein files, the trove of evidence gathered by law enforcement in connection with his arrest. That has persuaded much of the MAGA movementand many liberals and Democratsthat a lot is being kept hidden about his activities that would implicate other elites. Wydens move here is in some ways a trolling exercise, since DOJ wont act on it. But such trolling by lawmakers can be constructive if it communicates new information to the public or highlights the failure of others in power to exercise oversight and impose accountability. Wydens letter does both. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, Wyden suggests that DOJ prosecutors and FBI agents should immediately investigate the evidence contained in the Treasury Department records on Epstein. Wydens investigators know of these records because his office has been examining Epsteins financial transactions for several years. In February 2024when Democrats controlled the SenateWydens staff viewed in camera (that is, privately) thousands of pages of Treasury files documenting those transactions. That review brought to Wydens attention the $1.5 billion in suspicious transactions flagged to Treasury by big banks, which is detailed in the Times report. Wydens letter fleshes out these revelations, noting starkly that Treasurys Epstein file contains significant information on the sources of funding behind Epsteins sex trafficking activities. That appears to mean Wydens investigators saw evidence in those SARS that a large chunk of the money that passed through Epsteins network was related to that sex trafficking. As the letter notes: Epstein clearly had access to enormous financing to operate his sex trafficking network, and the details on how he got the cash to pay for it are sitting in a Treasury Department filing cabinet. To be fair, its unclear whether DOJ has or has not examined these Treasury files; its possible it has done so. But Wydens office notes that at minimum, DOJ has a responsibility to say whether it has done this and, if so, what this review unearthed. DOJ has not replied to Wydens questions in this regard, his office says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wydens letter also lays out other lines of inquiry for DOJ, urging examination of a number of specific payments to Epstein by several wealthy financiers that his investigators discovered. The letter also suggests subpoenaing banks that filed these SARS, in case they failed to report on Epstein-related transactions that remain unknown. In an intriguing move, Wyden also presses DOJ to examine hundreds of millions of dollars in wire transfers discovered by his investigators that passed through several now-sanctioned Russian banks. The latter adds suggestively: It appears that these wire transfers were correlated to the movement of women or girls around the world. Wyden also urges DOJ to investigate banks that failed to report on suspicious Epstein transfers in a timely manner and to depose bankers who presided over large Epstein-related transactions, among other things. All this could worsen this fiasco for Trump. Right now the White House insists that he personally favors transparency on the Epstein files but is letting Bondi, DOJ, and the FBI decide how to proceed. Miraculously, they are opting not to divulge the files beyond moving to release grand jury testimony, the one thing Trump has ordered them to seek, as its unlikely to be revelatory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given Trumps professed desire for transparency, its unclear why he wont simply order the full files released. With new reporting suggesting Trump might have been closer to Epstein than previously known, the possibility that Trump himself is in the fileswhether in incriminating fashion or notcant be dismissed. Wyden is also demanding that Treasury release to Congress these SARS documenting Epsteins transactions. Yet Treasury is apparently refusing, making the administrations obfuscation look even darker. In that regard, Wydens office also offers another revelation. In the Times piece, a Treasury spokesperson dismissed Wydens demand for release of these documents, insisting that when Joe Biden was president, Wyden never asked for this information, exposing the demand as political theater. But Wydens office says this is false. The in-camera review by Wyden staffers of Treasury documents in February 2024 itself shows that Wyden sought this info from the Biden administrationand that he got access to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats more, a Wyden aide tells me that in 2024, soon after Wydens staff viewed these Treasury documents in camera, Wyden actively moved to get the Senate to subpoena their release. Because Finance Committee rules require bipartisan support for subpoenas, Wyden sought the backing of several GOP senators on the committee, including now-chairman Mike Crapo and Marsha Blackburn. But none would support a subpoena, the aide says. That also has very dark implications, and youd think MAGA would now intensify pressure on Senate Republicans to seek access to these Treasury documents as well. But with the Epstein scandal now threatening Trump with serious political damage, a subset of powerful MAGA influencersones who initially thought the files would expose pedophilia among elite Democratsare suddenly losing their zeal to see them divulged. House GOP leaders just scuttled a vote on compelling their release. Thats why moves like this one by Wyden are important, and why Democrats should use their limited power to do more of them. This would keep the spotlight focused where it counts: The Trump administration possesses large amounts of information about Epsteins corrupt and depraved dealings with unidentified members of the global elite, and Trump and his top adviserswith active GOP acquiescenceare now all in on the elite cover-up. Brendan Carr, President Donald Trumps Federal Communications Commission chair, slammed Democrats on Tuesday for criticizing CBS over the networks decision to cancel The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The partisan lefts ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert is quite revealing, wrote Carr who served as FCC commissioner during Trumps first term and under former President Joe Biden in a post on X. Theyre acting like theyre losing a loyal DNC spokesperson that was entitled to an exemption from the laws of economics, he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carr also reacted to Colbert deriding the president for celebrating the cancellation, which CBS has described as purely a financial decision. Despite reports that The Late Show was facingfinancial challenges allegations Colbert joked about on Monday critics have accused CBS of caving topolitical pressure by agreeing to a $16 million settlement with Trump, so that its parent company, Paramount Global, could complete a multibillion-dollar merger with Skydance Media. Im shocked that CBS didnt find it profitable to keep running this type of stuff, wrote Carr, a Project 2025 contributor who has sought to use the FCC to punish broadcasters deemed unfair to the president as well as conservatives. Months earlier, Carr threatened to cancel the Paramount-Skydance merger after the 60 Minutes interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris sparked Trumps widely panned lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in April, Trump declared that CBS should lose its broadcast license following 60 Minutes segments on Ukraine and Greenland, in which foreign officials criticized the president, urging Carr to impose the maximum fines and punishment... for their unlawful and illegal behavior. The partisan lefts ritualist wailing and gnashing of teeth over Colbert is quite revealing. Theyre acting like theyre losing a loyal DNC spokesperson that was entitled to an exemption from the laws of economics. Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) July 22, 2025 Im shocked that CBS didnt find it profitable to keep running this type of stuff. Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) July 22, 2025 Related... The Supreme Court signaled again Wednesday that it believes the president has the power to fire the leaders of agencies and commissions that Congress said were independent. Granting another emergency appeal, the justices set aside a Baltimore judge's order and upheld President Trump's decision to fire the three Democratic appointees on the Consumer Product Safety Commission. In a brief order, the conservative majority said agency officials may be fired by the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three liberals dissented. "Once again, this Court uses its emergency docket to destroy the independence of an independent agency, as established by Congress," Justice Elena Kagan said. "By allowing the President to remove commissioners for no reason other than their party affiliation, the majority has negated Congresss choice of agency bipartisanship and independence." Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson agreed. The court's conservative majority has repeatedly sided with Trump and against district judges on matters related to federal agencies, including their spending, staffing and leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They believe the Constitution gives the president the executive authority to control the government, including by firing and replacing the heads of agencies, boards and commissions. They have ruled for Trump even when his removal orders conflicted with the law as established by Congress. At issue is whether Congress holds the power to structure the government or whether the president instead has the executive authority to reshape it. Since 1887, when the Interstate Commerce Commission was established to set railroad rates, Congress has created independent agencies with the aim of giving nonpartisan experts the authority to regulate in the public interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Consumer Product Safety Commission was established in 1972 to be led by five members who were appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. They would have seven-year terms and could be fired only for "neglect of duty or malfeasance in office." The commission investigates complaints about hazardous products, and it can require warning labels, order their recall or remove them from the market. In May, the Trump White House told the commission's three Democratic appointees Mary Boyle, Alexander Hoehn-Saric and Richard Trumka Jr. they were "terminated," but without accusing them of wrongdoing or malfeasance. Read more: Supreme Court upholds for now Trump's firing of two independent agency officials Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They sued in a federal court in Maryland where the CPSC has its headquarters. U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox, a Biden appointee, ruled the firings were illegal and reinstated the three to their positions. The judge pointed to the Supreme Court's 1935 decision that protected the constitutionality of "traditional multi-member independent agencies." The court's opinion in the case of Humphrey's Executor vs. United States drew a distinction between "purely executive officers" who were under the president's control and those who served on a board "with quasi-judicial or quasi-legislative functions." But the court's conservatives have hinted they may overturn that precedent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five years ago, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. spoke for the court and ruled the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau can be fired by the president, even though Congress had said otherwise. But since that case did not involve a multimember board or commission, it did not overrule the 1935 precedent. In late May, however, the court cleared the way for Trump to fire a Democratic appointee on the National Labor Relations Board and a second on the Merit Systems Protection Board. "Because the Constitution vests the executive power in the President, he may remove without cause executive officers who exercise that power on his behalf, the court said then in an unsigned order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's solicitor general, D. John Sauer, said that decision should have cleared the way for the firing of the three members of the CPSC. But the 4th Circuit Court stood behind Maddox's order. The Constitution "entrusts Congress with the power to design independent agencies that serve the public interest free from political pressure," said Judge James Wynn of the 4th Circuit. "Here, Congress lawfully constrained the President's removal authority. ... The district court correctly declined to permit a President any President to disregard those limits." Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Carla Hayden, the 14th librarian of Congress, who has held the position since 2016, received an unexpected email on May 8, 2025. Carla, on behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service, wrote Trent Morse, deputy director of presidential personnel at the White House. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later explained that Hayden, who was the first woman, Black person and professionally trained librarian to oversee the Library of Congress, had done quite concerning things, on the job, including putting inappropriate books in the library for children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic politicians sharply criticized Haydens termination, saying the firing was unjust. It was actually about Trump punishing civil servants who dont bend to his every will, New York Sen. Chuck Schumer said. An information science scholar, I have written extensively about the history of libraries and archives, including the Library of Congress. To fully understand the role Hayden played for the past nine years, I think it is important to understand what the Library of Congress does, and the overlooked and underappreciated role it has played in American life. Carla Hayden, the recently fired librarian of Congress, attends an event in March 2025 in Washington. Shannon Finney/Getty Images The Library of Congress work The Library of Congress is an agency that was first established, by an act of Congress, in 1800. The act provided for the purchase of such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress at the said city of Washington, and for fitting up a suitable apartment for containing them. Its chief librarian is appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The library has six buildings in Washington that hold a print and online collection of nearly 26 million books, as well as more than 136 million other items, including manuscripts, maps, sheet music and prints and photographs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also houses historic documents, like Thomas Jeffersons rough draft of the Declaration of Independence and James Madisons notes on the 1787 Constitutional Convention. The library is the property of the American people. Anyone over the age of 16 with a government-issued photo identification can enter its buildings and read or view its materials on-site. The Library of Congress was partially designed as a research institution to suit the needs of members of Congress, and only Congress members can borrow items from the library and take them home. The Library of Congress has an annual budget of about US$900 million, with a staff of 3,263. In 2024, the librarys staff helped acquire 1,437,832 million new items, issue nearly 69,000 library cards and answer more than 764,000 reference requests, among other tasks. The librarys deep roots The library has evolved alongside the U.S. itself. Five years before the Constitutional Convention of 1787, future president James Madison called for a library to provide materials to help inform Congress and its members. In 1800, President John Adams signed a bill that established the institution, which began with a $5,000 government appropriation, equivalent to more than $127,000 today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The librarys first collection included 152 works in 740 volumes imported from England. It occupied a space in a Washington Senate office that measured just 22 feet by 34 feet. The British army torched the infant library and its collection that had grown to 3,000 books in 1814, during the War of 1812. In response, former president Thomas Jefferson sold his personal collection of 6,479 books to the library, which he called unquestionably the choicest collection of books in the U.S. Tragedy struck again in 1851, with a fire that incinerated two-thirds of the librarys 55,000 volumes, including most of Jeffersons personal collection. The organization rebounded in the next few years, as it purchased the 40,000-volume Smithsonian library in 1866, among other new acquisitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ainsworth Spofford, the sixth librarian of Congress, boosted the librarys national image in the late 1800s when he tried to centralize the countrys patchwork copyright system. Spofford also successfully lobbied Congress to pass the Copyright Act of 1870, which stipulated that any party registering a work for copyright needed to deposit two copies of that work with the library. A growing place in American life As its collections burgeoned in both scale and scope in the latter part of the 19th century, the library assumed an increasingly visible role and became known by some as the nations library. By 1900, it had nearly 1 million printed books and other materials. The opening of a new library building in 1897, offering services to blind people with a designated reading room containing 500 raised character or braille books and music items, epitomized the librarys new status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Theodore Roosevelt said in 1901 that the library was the one national library of the United States and that was a unique opportunity to render to the libraries of this country to American scholarship service of the highest importance. The librarys work, and global approach, continued to grow during the 20th century. By the late 1900s, the library held materials in more than 450 languages. It continued to add remarkable items to its collection, including a Gutenberg Bible, the first book printed in Europe from movable metal type, a kind of printing technology, in 1455. Documenting the evolution of democracy, the library also assumed stewardship of 23 presidents official papers, from George Washington to Calvin Coolidge, during this time frame. A public service While primarily designated a research institution for Congress, the library has also catered to a diverse range of patrons, including by mail and telephone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As one Science Digest writer noted in 1960, reference staff members fielded questions ranging from What was the color of a mastodons eye? to How many words are there in the English language? and Could you suggest a name for twins? The librarys register of copyrights received similarly diverse and even humorous inquiries. One older woman seeking to publish her poetry wrote in 1954 to request a poetic license to ensure her work conformed to the law. In the late 20th century, the library focused on a new democratic national and international mission, as it embraced a new role. Daniel Boorstin, the librarian from 1975 to 1987, termed that role a multimedia encyclopedia. A congressional resolution marking the Library of Congresss bicentennial in 2000 noted that it was the largest and most inclusive library in human history, as it digitized its collections to extend its reach still further with the growth of the internet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the library marks its 225th year, it continues to represent, as David Mearns, chief of the librarys manuscript division, said in 1947, the American story. The Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress is seen on June 11, 2025, in Washington. Kevin Carter/Getty Images A library for all Following Haydens dismissal, Trump appointed Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, his former personal lawyer, as acting librarian of Congress. Hayden has contended that her dismissal, which occurred alongside other firings of top civil servants, including the national archivist, represents a broad threat to peoples right to easily access free information. Democracies are not to be taken for granted, Hayden said in June. She explained in an interview with CBS that she never had a problem with a presidential administration and is not sure why she was dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the institutions that support democracy should not be taken for granted, Hayden added. In her final annual report as librarian, Hayden characterized the institution as truly, a library for all. So far, even without her leadership, it remains just that. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Alex H. Poole, Drexel University Read more: Alex H. Poole 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. Democratic and Republican Lawmakers are asking the Trump administration to unfreeze nearly $6 billion in federal education funding, voicing concern that it could force some school districts to close. In a rare bipartisan push across local, state, and federal lines, officials have asked the administration to release billions in federal funding that support essential K-12 and adult education programs particularly for low-income and English as a second language students. So far, 10 Republican senators and 18 Democratic governors have sent letters to Education Department Secretary Linda McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Secretary Russell Vought encouraging them to release funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the Republicans is Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who told ABC News she was concerned about schools in her home state that have already struggled to stay open. "Many of our school districts have already made really hard decisions about closing schools," Murkowski said. "I wish I could say that we were really solid on the state level, but we're not. And now there's questions on the federal level as well. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have asked the Trump administration to release billions in funding allocated to K-12 school programs and warn it could lead to school closures. (Getty Images) On June 30, the Department of Education informed school districts across the country that it would not release $6.9 billion that would typically be done on July 1. The department said it was reviewing federal funding because it had been grossly misused to subsidize a radical left-wing agenda. Nearly two weeks later, on July 18, the administration said it would release $1.3 billion in those federal frozen funds allocated toward after-school programs but the other $5.5 billion remains in limbo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Independent has asked the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget for comment. Already, school districts are looking at making cuts as they struggle to prepare for the upcoming school year. In Tallahassee, Florida, Leon County School District Superintendent Rocky Hannah said the possibility of school closures is on the table to solve the school districts financial issues which have only been made worse by federal funding cuts. Were going to look at enrollment data and school zones to see if that could potentially be of financial benefit to us, Hanna told the Tallahassee Democrat. Of course, we do not want to do that, but all options are on the table, including the merging of school sites. On June 30, the Department of Education informed school districts across the country that it would not release $6.9 billion that would typically be done on July 1. Some of that has been distributed, but not all. (Getty Images) A spokesperson for the Palm Beach County School District told WPTV that the ongoing delay in releasing these funds poses significant challenges and could necessitate the elimination of essential services for our students and educators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In their letter to McMahon and Vought, Republicans said freezing funds was contrary to President Donald Trumps desire to shut down the Department of Education in order to return education to the states. The decision to withhold this funding is contrary to President Trump's goal of returning K-12 education to the states. This funding goes directly to states and local school districts, where local leaders decide how this funding is spent, because as we know, local communities know how to best serve students and families. Withholding this funding denies states and communities the opportunity to pursue localized initiatives to support students and their families, the 10 Republicans wrote. Multiple school districts in Murkowskis home state have sued the Trump administration for withholding funds, arguing that it violates the Impoundment Control Act, among other constitutional provisions. Murkowski told ABC News she is very worried. "If your literacy skills are weak, if you're working on your English skills, I mean, these are all things that are keeping people out of the workforce at a time when we're trying to get people into it," Murkowski said. Inside a Kanawha County elementary classroom in West Virginia. (Lexi Browning | West Virginia Watch) West Virginia is set to lose more than $25 million in federal education funding this coming school year after President Donald Trumps administration withheld billions in federal money for after-school and summer programs, adult literacy and English language instruction to ensure spending aligned with the White Houses priorities. The federal funds were supposed to be distributed July 1, and its another blow to districts budgets across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School districts are already struggling financially due to West Virginias declining population and kids exiting public schools to use the education voucher program. Other school systems are under state scrutiny for how theyve spent money, including Roane County, where the district is facing a projected $2.5 million budget deficit due to overspending. Cabell County just laid off around 100 teachers and staff due to a budget crunch, said Drew Rottgen, treasurer for the school system. Federal grants had helped the county pay for portions of some salaries, professional development and more. The window for schools to issue reduction in force (RIF) notices to teachers and staff has closed, so Rottgen said theyre figuring out how to pay for personnel and programs since the federal funds are not guaranteed by the start of school next month. Any kind of decision that we make, you know, its going to be, How can we limit the impact on our students? he said. Were looking at alternative funding sources to see what other money we have available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Ohio County, the now-frozen federal dollars had paid for a mental health counselor. We have a counselor that we have available to our students to do Tier Three intervention with students who are struggling with things in the school setting, said Walt Saunders, director of federal programs for Ohio County Schools. He noted those grants are also shared with the countys private schools, which will also be impacted by the funding loss. Theyll also have to cover some teacher salaries through the schools general fund, he explained, saying that the district was able to carry over a budget surplus this year. We werent planning for Title II and Title IV to go away. But we have a healthy carryover, and if need be, we can absorb it, he said. Well have to cut some travel and professional development out of the Title II funds. But were not going to cut our mental health program, and were not going to cut enriching our students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every district in West Virginia receives funding from multiple federal grants, according to the state education department. The West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy estimates that federal funding brings more than $350 million annually into the states 55 county school districts. Amon Gilliam, director of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, Improvement and Support for the West Virginia Department of Education, said that last year, the state received the impacted federal money for the following programs: Adult Basic Education: $3,822,557 Title II-A, which funded professional development initiatives, salaries for individuals who support educators and more: $13,043,347 Title III-A, for English Language Acquisition to support students whose home language is not English: $554,694 Title IV-A, Student Support & Academic Enrichment: $7,694,546 Amon Gilliam Title IV-A supports student safety, mental health, a well-rounded education and the effective use of technology, Gilliam said in an email. The absence of these funds will prevent or greatly decrease the ability of [local education agencies] to maintain and increase their capacity regarding the use of technology in the classrooms, address the needs of students and the opportunities to provide additional educational learning opportunities within West Virginia schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cabell County had been using Title IV money to help pay for school resource officers. Its disappointing, because I think about $150,000 of that grant goes towards our SROs each year, and so thatll be a cost that well have to find another funding source to be able to pay for this year, Rottgen said. We prioritize student safety, so were not going to cut police officers or cut back hours or anything We will find a way to make that work, Rottgen said. Elsewhere, Marion County had expected to receive $800,000 from the affected grants. Raleigh County had counted on $500,000 for professional development. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) speaks during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on the fiscal year 2023 budget for the FBI at the U.S. Capitol on May 25, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Ting Shen | Getty Images) Last week, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., announced that the U.S. Department of Education will release a portion of the frozen money $6 billion that funds after-school and summer learning programs for students. Capito led a group of Republican colleagues to send a letter to the White House Office of Management and Budget advocating to release anticipated education funding. Sen. Jim Justice, R-W.Va.. signed onto the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement West Virginia had expected to receive roughly $7.4 million in 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding, according to the WVDE. This program supports states in providing quality after-school and summer learning programs for students while enabling their parents to work and contribute to local economies. We should be supporting education opportunities like these, Capito said in a statement. I made this clear to [Office of Management Budget Director Russell Vought] and was glad he followed through on my request to release these critical funds. Attorneys General from 24 states have sued the Trump administration to prevent the education funding cut, but West Virginia Attorney General J.B. McCuskey is not in the group. A coalition of school districts filed a lawsuit over the frozen money, as well. School officials are hopeful the federal money will be unfrozen so they can reimburse themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were hoping that things get put back, but were preparing as though it could be a lesser amount or no amount at all, Rottgen said. Logan County Schools Treasurer Rhonda Justice said, We are taking the wait and see approach until the federal government makes it a final decision. Then, if necessary, we will reallocate essential program costs to other areas of our budget because we want to ensure services continue uninterrupted for our children. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Donald Trump was crazy about Ghislaine Maxwell from the very start. Maxwell, the Oxford-educated daughter of a billionaire publishing tycoon, was exactly the kind of company the future US president liked to keep in New York in the 80s. The pair were regular fixtures in the elite Manhattan and Palm Beach social scenes, attending the same parties at private clubs and on million-dollar yachts. More than 30 years later, Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for procuring underage girls for her paedophile ex-boyfriend Jeffrey Epstein, and Mr Trump has been returned to the most powerful office in the world for a second time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidents relationship with the couple has become his biggest political liability. Donald Trump with then-girlfriend Melania, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at the Mar-a-Lago club, Florida, in Feb 2000 - Davidoff Studios/Getty Images On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced the Department of Justice (DoJ) was seeking to speak to Maxwell about what she knew of the so-called Epstein files. Mr Trump has been under immense pressure from Republicans and his Maga base after the DoJ and FBI said earlier this month that nothing would be shared with the public, and that the financier had taken his own life. Their refusal to engage with the case further only served to increase the furore around it and Mr Trumps links to the couple. Some Maga supporters saw it as confirmation that the deep state was conspiring to protect elites by keeping information back, including an Epstein list of names. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell, like the Trump administration, denies the existence of such a list, according to her brother. Meanwhile, Alan Dershowitz, Epsteins former lawyer, told the New York Post he was certain Maxwell was aiming to make a deal in her discussion with the DoJ. If that is the case, her decades-long friendship with the president may just be his greatest weapon, especially if she can distance him from any of Epsteins crimes, or implicate any of his political enemies. Many Maga-world commentators have noted that Bill Clinton, the former US president, repeatedly flew on the financiers private jet. Credit: Reuters Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exactly when the pair met is unclear, but it would have been likely to have been some time in the late 1980s when Maxwell was acting as social emissary for her father Robert Maxwell, the publishing tycoon and fraudster. Donald liked Epstein but he was crazy about Maxwell, a very charming lady, Steven Hoffenberg, a former business associate of Epsteins, who also knew Mr Trump, told The Washington Post before his death in 2022. Newspaper accounts place Mr Trump and Maxwell at a party on her fathers yacht, named the Lady Ghislaine after his youngest and favourite daughter, in May 1989. Guests, drawn from across New Yorks social, political and cultural elite, slipped off their footwear before boarding the 180-foot yacht, where they sipped champagne, nibbled caviar flown in from Paris on Concorde, and salmon served from the vessels stores by shoeless waiters, according to one report. 1970s Playboy Baroque Mr Trump was captivated by the spectacle, according to John Preston, a Robert Maxwell biographer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Removing his shoes with obvious reluctance, he handed them to Robert Maxwells valet before donning his blue bootees, he wrote. Trump then stood gazing at the yachts decor described by one visitor as 1970s Playboy Baroque. Simon Grigg, Robert Maxwells valet, noticed a peculiar expression come over the New York businessmans face. It was almost like he was in awe but didnt want to show it, he recalled. When the publisher was found dead in 1991 after apparently toppling from his yacht into the Atlantic Ocean, the Trump Plaza Hotel hosted a memorial in his honour. Whether Mr Trump was present is not recorded. But the event was the first time Epstein and Maxwell were pictured together, images that were later widely circulated by prosecutors building a sex trafficking case against the former couple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein, dressed in evening wear, grins at the then 29-year-old Maxwell, with whom he appears to be in the middle of a conversation as they sit next to each other on red velvet chairs. After her fathers death, Maxwell was drawn further into New Yorks social scene and moved to the city permanently from London. She worshipped rich, domineering men In 1992, The Sunday Mirror reported she was living a champagne high life off a trust fund set up by her father, and would often attend dinner parties with Ivana Trump, Mr Trumps first wife. She worshipped rich, domineering men, according to Tom Bower, another of Robert Maxwells chroniclers, and reportedly became more reliant on Epstein. Ghislaine and Trump were often seen socialising at parties in New York City - pictured here in Oct 1997 - Richard Corkery/Getty At the same time, she appears to have become further embedded in Mr Trumps inner circle, regularly appearing at high-society events throughout the 1990s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was substantial interaction between Donald Trump, Ghislaine Maxwell and Ivana Trump, said Hoffenberg, who was convicted in 1995 of running a $475 million (350 million) Ponzi scheme through a debt collection agency. Her first recorded time at Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort was in 1992, when she attended a party thrown by the property tycoon to celebrate life as a single man, accompanied by Epstein. For a few years, the trail between them goes cold at least according to media reports. Whether they socialised privately during this time is unknown. Mr Trump maintained his relationship with Epstein, however, riding on his private jet four times in 1993 then once in 1994 and once in 1995. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1997, Maxwell was pictured trying, and apparently failing, to get Mr Trumps attention as his eye roved over models at an event in New Yorks Soho neighbourhood. The same year, flight logs released via court filings showed Mr Trump flew on Epsteins plane with the financier and Maxwell to Newark. Mr Trump attended a dinner organised by Maxwell at Epsteins mansion in Manhattan in honour of her close friend the Duke of York in 1999, according to The New York Post. Credit: NBC The Republican, who often refers to his mothers affection for Queen Elizabeth II and speaks warmly about the Royal family, is likely to have appreciated being introduced to the fourth in line to the throne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell was reportedly playing the same role she had for her father by helping Prince Andrew navigate New Yorks social scene but the socialite was also opening doors for Mr Trump. That meeting may have paved the way for the Duke holidaying at Mar-a-Lago in February 2000 one of eight vacations that year, the Evening Standard noted at the time. He was spending more time with [her] than his own daughters, it noted. That same month, Mr Trump was pictured attending a party at the resort with his then-girlfriend, later to be third wife, Melania Knauss, plus Maxwell and Epstein. Andrew was also pictured at the same event. Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein victim, said she was 17 years old and working as a spa attendant at the Palm Beach club in mid-2000 when she was recruited by Maxwell to work as a masseuse for Epstein, who then started sexually abusing her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trump and Maxwell appeared on good terms when they attended the Anand Jon Fashion Show in New York a short time later, sitting side-by-side in the front row and posing for the cameras. Two years later, they were photographed grinning for the cameras with Melania and supermodel Naomi Campbell at a Dolce & Gabbana event. The friendship seems to have continued into 2003, when Mr Trump reportedly attended another of Epstein and Maxwells dinner parties at the paedophiles New York mansion. Ghislaine Maxwell, Naomi Campbell, Donald Trump and Melania Knauss at a Dolce & Gabbana opening party in NYC in Nov 2002 - Patrick McMullan/Getty According to recent reporting by The Wall Street Journal, it was also in 2003 that Maxwell compiled a leather-bound album for Epsteins 50th birthday. Among the letters she allegedly included was a birthday note from Mr Trump, which imagined a cryptic conversation between the two men in which he told his friend they had certain things in common. A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday and may every day be another wonderful secret, it concluded. Mr Trump has fiercely denied writing or sending the letter, which reportedly featured a drawing of a naked woman in permanent marker with his signature. It is unclear whether the relationship between Mr Trump and Maxwell survived the rupture in his friendship with Epstein in 2004, over a Florida real estate deal which eventually saw the financier banned from Mar-a-Lago. But if he bore a grudge against the woman who had been his friend for more than a decade, he did not show it. As late as 2020, while grappling with the Covid pandemic as US president, Mr Trump still had warm words for Maxwell. Asked about her prosecution on sex trafficking, he said: I just wish her well, frankly. I havent really been following it too much. Ive met her numerous times over the years, especially since I lived in Palm Beach, and I guess they [Epstein and Maxwell] lived in Palm Beach. Speaking to Piers Morgan on Tuesday night, Maxwells brother, Ian, praised the president for his 2020 comments. I dont think that anyone else showed the slightest bit of humanity not anybody at that time. And yet he did, he told Morgans Uncensored show. He didnt need to. Hes president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world. He could have just sloughed it off. He didnt, Mr Maxwell added. Even after Epsteins apparent suicide in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019 and Maxwells sex trafficking conviction two years later, their relationship isnt over. Maxwell could rescue Mr Trump from his biggest political crisis since taking office. Some have also suggested the president could seek to reach a quid pro quo with his former friend, floating a pardon or sentence reduction in return for useful information. Decades after they first met, with one behind bars and the other in the White House, the pair can still be of use to each other. 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 Donald Trump announced that four states, which experienced disasters over the last six months, would receive funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency despite previously threatening to eliminate the federal agency. Taking to Truth Social Tuesday, the president announced he would unlock millions in federal funding for Indiana, which experienced deadly tornadoes in March; Michigan, which experienced ice storms in March; Kentucky, which experienced flooding and tornadoes in April and May; and West Virginia, which experienced flooding and tornadoes in June. The announcement arrives after the president has signaled his desire to phase out FEMA and the administration has been scrutinized for its response to the devastating floods in Texas that killed more than 130 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has reportedly indicated he wants to return disaster response to the states by removing FEMA as the lead in response. Instead, the president hopes to make local and state officials the primary leaders while using FEMA as financial support. In January, Trump claimed FEMA had not been productive for years and pushed responsibility onto the states for handling disaster response. President Donald Trump said he would unlock federal funding to four states that experienced deadly storms over the last six months. (Getty Images) White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson previously said in a statement that federal assistance was always intended to supplement state actions, not replace those actions. FEMAs outsized role created a bloated bureaucracy that disincentivized state investment in their own resilience, Jackson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, since then, the president has softened his stance, reportedly backing away from language that indicated he was going to shut down the decades-old agency. While the funding is slightly delayed, state leaders expressed gratitude for it. Im glad to have received word from President Trump committing federal funds to help Northern Michigan communities impacted by the historic ice storm damage earlier this year, Governor Gretchen Whitmer said on X. We have more details to gather, but Im grateful for this response to my requests of the White House. Northern Michigan experienced deadly ice storms in March that left at least six people dead. Homes and infrastructure also experienced damage due to the heavy ice. Severe flooding hit parts of Kentucky in April and led to the deaths of at least 31 people. (AFP via Getty Images) Trump, who said it was his honor to approve federal funds for the state, and would give $50 million to assist in recovery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indiana Governor Mike Braun thanked Trump for his approval of $15.1 million in funding, which will go toward assisting recovery after a string of tornadoes hit the state in March. In announcing the states funding, Trump also reminded people that he won BIG in the state in the 2016, 2020 and 2024 presidential elections. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear wrote on X that he was grateful to the president and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem for providing a total of $56 million in disaster response. At least seven people died in April after the state experienced devastating flooding. At least 31 people died in May after deadly tornadoes swept across the state as well. This support is essential to helping these communities rebuild, and I am grateful to the president and @SecNoem. I also told @POTUS that the @FEMA team members on the ground are doing great work supporting Kentuckians. We will provide more details soon, Beshear wrote. Patrick Morrisey, the governor of West Virginia, praised Trump and the administration for providing us with another tool to help these communities make a full recovery. Trump said he would provide $11.7 million in federal funding to support recovery after heavy rains brought flooding in June. At least nine people died as a result of the floods. A reporter asked President Donald Trump about newly unveiled photos tying him to Jeffrey Epstein but the call only lasted 30 seconds before the president reportedly hung up. Unearthed archived photos capturing Jeffrey Epstein attending Trumps 1993 wedding to Marla Maples at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, published by CNN, reveal fresh insights into their relationship as the president tries to distance himself from the late financiers case. When CNN reporter Andrew Kaczynski called Trump to ask about the photos, the president gave an abrupt response: Youve got to be kidding me. He then repeatedly called the network fake news and, after 30 seconds, hung up, the outlet reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House Communications Director Steven Cheung told CNN in a statement: These are nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious. The fact is that the president kicked him out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, Cheung added. A CNN reporter says president Donald Trump hung up on him when he called to ask about new photos showing Jeffrey Esptein attending Trumps 1993 wedding. (Getty) CNN also uncovered footage from a 1999 Victorias Secret fashion event of Trump and Epstein chitchatting. Other photos widely available also show the two men together at the runway show, the outlet noted. Trumps 30-second phone call comes days after the president sued the Wall Street Journal for a report claiming that he allegedly gave Epstein a bawdy birthday card for his 50th birthday. The card contained sexually suggestive drawing and a reference to secrets both men shared, the publication alleged. Trump has vehemently denied the claims and sued the WSJ and its owners for $10 billion for defamation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent reports linking Trump to Epstein come as the White House attempts to quell the uproar over the so-called Epstein files. His MAGA supporters erupted after the Justice Department released a July 6 memo stating no further disclosures were necessary after the "exhaustive" review the department conducted. The memo led to demands for increased transparency from both MAGA world and Congressional Republicans after Attorney General Pam Bondi revealed there was a trove of documents to be reviewed in the case. Just months earlier, she said was examining a truckload of evidence the FBI had provided on the case, noting the client list of high-profile associates linked to the sex offenders trafficking scheme was sitting on her desk. A protester holds a sign outside the White House demanding the release of all files related to the Epstein case (AFP via Getty Images) Her office in February released Phase 1 of the Epstein files roughly 100 pages of documents, most of which were already publicly available. A mix of outrage and disappointment bubbled up among right-wing influencers. Still, many anticipated more information about the convicted sex offender was coming. Then, the July 6 memo deflated any lingering hope. It stated there was no evidence that a client list existed and that Epstein had died by suicide in his New York City jail cell in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid internal Trump administration clashes and an uproar online, the president requested Bondi to release the grand jury transcripts in the cases of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, the financiers former girlfriend who was sentenced to 20 years behind bars following her 2021 conviction for her role in a scheme to abuse girls with Epstein. Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche filed motions to unseal the grand jury transcripts a move that experts say amounts to only a fraction of the Epstein files. The judges overseeing the cases have now asked for more information, including statements from Maxwell and the victims about the disclosures, before proceeding. The Trump administration will meet with Maxwell in the coming days, Blanche announced Tuesday. If Ghislane Maxwell has information about anyone who has committed crimes against victims, the FBI and the DOJ will hear what she has to say, the deputy AG said. Not long after Blanches announcement Tuesday, the House Oversight Committee approved a subpoena for Maxwell. Trump said the subpoena" sounds appropriate" during questions from reporters at the White House. Even Donald Trumps most sycophantic followers are turning on the president. Jacob Chansleybetter known as the QAnon shamandenounced the MAGA leader Wednesday morning, responding to a post of Trumps 2023 mugshot by decrying the president as a fraud. Fuck this stupid piece of shit, Chansley wrote in a since-deleted post that accrued more than 34,000 views. Screenshot of a Bluesky post In a follow-up post, Chansley wrote: Oh yea & Fuck Israel! And Fuck Donald Trump! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chansley captured national attention when he stormed through the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, in an elaborate, horned fur headdress. In the aftermath of the attack, a face-painted Chansley emerged as one of the central figures of the revolt. Once at the Capitol building, Chansley was in the first group of rioters to break inside. Wielding a bullhorn, he worked to rile up the crowd and demand that lawmakers be brought out, according to a sentencing memo. In late 2021, a federal judge sentenced Chansley to 41 months in prison for his role in the January 6 insurrection. But that was undone hours after Trump was inaugurated at the start of this year, when he included Chansley in a clemency order for some 1,600 of his supporters who were involved in the riot. Trump has held messiah-like status within QAnons conspiratorial circle for years thanks to their principal belief that, despite being named and photographed as an associate of sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, Trump would rid the world of Satan-worshipping pedophiles who run the government and media. In turn, Trump readily welcomed the cockeyed adoration. In 2020, he offered the movement plausible deniability at an executive levelclaiming that while he didnt know much about QAnon, he couldnt disprove its theories. Just two years later, Trump was regularly circulating bits of the conspiracy on TruthSocial and reposting images of himself wearing Q pins emblazoned with the cults messaging, A Storm Is Coming, referring to Trumps supposed final victory, when QAnon supporters expect him to mass-execute his opponents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement QAnon supporters turned out en masse in November to help Trump return to the Oval Office. But Trumps sudden backpedalling on unearthing records related to the Epstein investigation has left a bitter taste in those supporters mouths. Their relationship was further strained when Trump referred to his Epstein-minded allies as stupid, naive, and foolish, accusing them of being duped by Democrats who he claimed invented the Epstein hoax. But Trump has a well-documented history with the New York financier. Prior to his death, Epstein described himself as one of Trumps closest friends. The socialites were named and photographed together several times, Trump allegedly penned a salacious letter to Epstein for the pedophiles 50th birthday, the real estate mogul reportedly flew on Epsteins jets between Palm Beach and New York at least seven times, and the first time that Trump slept with his now-wife Melania was reportedly aboard Epsteins plane, nicknamed the Lolita Express. In a 2002 New York magazine profile of Epstein, Trump said he had known Epstein for 15 years and referred to him as a terrific guy. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side, Trump said at the time. This story has been updated. A torrent of negative headlines over the past week about President Donald Trumps ties to Jeffrey Epstein has left him and Republicans grasping for straws to appease their voters. Literally. On Tuesday morning, the X account of the Republican Party announced to its 3.4 million followers that the White House is taking on the big issue of the moment: paper straws. President Trump is Making Straws Great Again! pic.twitter.com/mjpo9qnaYn GOP (@GOP) July 22, 2025 The post read President Trump is Making Straws Great Again! and flexed a White House rule, originally introduced in February, to cancel a Biden-era initiative to use paper straws in federal government procurement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That executive order instructed agencies to end the irrational campaign against plastic straws and smeared paper straws as nonfunctional. While signing the order in February, Trump remarked that paper straws occasionally explode. His gripe that paper straws dont work also gained some surprising bipartisan support when Jon Stewart agreed that the plastic alternatives are f---ing terrible. Whatever the merits of the rule itself, online commentators were quick to realize that the GOPs intentions with Tuesdays post were clearly transparent. The most liked comment on the post so far came from the online hacker group Anonymous, which wrote WE DONT GIVE A F--K ABOUT STRAWS. RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt posted about the rule earlier on Tuesday and received a similarly icy response. White House Introduces Rule Canceling Bidens Paper Straw Mandatehttps://t.co/dn6AAsY4ph Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) July 22, 2025 Users quickly recognized that the rule announcement, unlike the plastic straws it was peddling, was itself recycled from February. As one disgruntled commenter complained, I thought we already did that?!?! Another user whose profile described herself as MAHA before it was a thing commented: Paper straw mandates? Scrapped in record time. Justice for Epsteins victims? Still buried under red tape. Its unclear what effect the executive order will have on the straw-using population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the one hand, the National Park Service has estimated that 500 million straws are used by Americans every day, and the federal government is the largest buyer of straws. On the other hand, eight states have banned single-use plastic straws, crimping the potential of a full-scale plastic comeback. One thing is for sure: Trumps camp hopes that the pivot to plastic will make it easier for his supporters to sip the Epstein Kool-Aid. The Trump administration plans to argue that federal law does not require agencies to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, in a move designed to derail virtually all U.S. limits on climate pollution, according to three people familiar with the upcoming proposal. The Environmental Protection Agency will as early as this week unveil its plan to undo the so-called endangerment finding, which in 2009 laid out a comprehensive case for how human emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases threaten human health and welfare. Instead of challenging the science, which would require EPA to assemble a body of evidence rejecting the overwhelming consensus that humans are driving climate change primarily through the burning of fossil fuels, the Trump administration would lean into an argument that a key 2007 Supreme Court ruling allowed but did not require the agency to regulate greenhouse gases, according to the three people who were granted anonymity to discuss a draft regulation not yet made public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort to repeal the endangerment finding, if successful, would represent President Donald Trumps most sweeping attempt to dismantle climate change policies and push his energy dominance agenda, which focuses on expanding U.S. fossil fuel production. The move, combined with the Trump administrations planned effort to ditch vehicle tailpipe pollution rules governing transportation and its proposal to end U.S. power plant emissions limits, would deliver a major blow to the U.S. effort to halt global temperature rise. The United States has contributed more than any other nation to the 1.3 degrees Celsius of warming that the world has experienced since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, and it is currently the second-largest polluter, behind China. While EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has been the public face for eradicating what he has called the holy grail of the climate change religion, he is far from alone in drafting the proposal that would fulfill a years-long quest by conservatives to undo climate rules they argue raise costs for consumers, constrain fossil fuel-driven electricity and punish automakers and other manufacturers. The Office of Management and Budget has taken a leading role in the process, according to Myron Ebell, who led Trumps first EPA transition team, and two people familiar with the discussions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Department has also helped shape the draft, which relies on a legal rather than scientific rationale to topple the endangerment finding, according to the two people as well as another individual granted anonymity to discuss the draft rule. Going the legal route to end the endangerment finding will come amid fresh headwinds. The United Nations International Court of Justice on Wednesday ruled that climate change poses an urgent and existential threat a non-binding opinion that will likely factor into court cases around the world. The court said countries must cooperate to keep temperatures from rising 1.5 degrees above preindustrial levels, adding that failing to do so could violate international law. The court also said that leaving the 2015 Paris climate agreement, which Trump has said the U.S. will exit, does not excuse countries from their obligations to curb warming. But Trump officials appear prepared to take the fight to the courts. Framing their case as a legal rather than scientific matter represents a departure from the strategy it once mulled under then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt during Trumps first term, which consisted of challenging the comprehensive, Obama-era scientific analysis that determined six greenhouse gases posed human health and safety risks necessitating regulations. An EPA spokesperson said in a statement that the agency sent its reconsideration over to OMB on June 30 and the proposal will be published for public notice and comment once it has completed interagency review and been signed by the Administrator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House referred POLITICO to EPA for comment. OMB and DOJ did not immediately respond to requests for comment. U.S. climate rules flow from the 2007 Supreme Court decision in Massachusetts v. EPA, which found that the agency has authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gases. The high court ruled that EPA can avoid regulating greenhouse gases only if it can prove they do not contribute to climate change or if it can come up with "some reasonable explanation" why it won't issue an endangerment finding. "To the extent that this constrains agency discretion to pursue other priorities of the Administrator or the President, this is the congressional design," the court added, a caveat that will make it harder for EPA to simply argue that the Trump administration has declared an energy emergency or adopted a fossil fuel-friendly policy position. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the dissent in that 2007 case. He argued that material loss from rising temperatures was pure conjecture and cast doubt on EPAs ability to blunt the damaging effects of climate change given the complexities of global warming. The Supreme Court has since shifted to a 6-3 conservative supermajority, with Trump appointing three of its members during his first term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High-ranking Trump officials have been eager to test those waters. OMB Director Russ Vought has spearheaded government-wide efforts to limit the influence of climate science on administration policy. Writing in Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation-led blueprint for a conservative presidency, Vought argued that federal climate science shackled agency actions. Jeffrey Clark, who ran the Justice Departments environmental division in Trumps first term, has led the administrations endangerment finding proposal through his new perch at OMB. Vought previously hired Clark to work at Voughts Center for Renewing America, where the two workshopped policy ideas during the Biden administration. Clark is personally connected to the effort to unwind the endangerment finding. He successfully argued the Massachusetts v. EPA case in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals as a DOJ appointee for former President George W. Bush. But he left the government before the case landed in the Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some conservatives want Trump to challenge the underlying science given the potential to lose on a narrow legal challenge, said Ebell, the conservative activist who has advocated for battling the endangerment finding on scientific grounds. Jeff is pursuing a particular strategy thats very well thought out over a long period of time, Ebell said. Not everyone agrees with it, but I think thats whats going to happen because hes the guy in authority and the right man to lead the reconsideration. One of the people familiar with the Trump administrations upcoming proposal said that in addition to EPA, OMB and DOJ, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Millers team has also played into the strategy, as have the White House counsels office and the Energy Department. OMB and DOJ, however, have taken a prominent role, the people familiar said. Public records, meanwhile, showed that EPA has been absent from meetings with OMBs Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs to discuss the upcoming rule with interested parties like industry and environmental groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Environmental groups were quick to criticize the Trump administrations planned move. By revoking this key scientific finding our government is putting fealty to Big Oil over sound science and peoples health, Dan Becker, director of the Center for Biological Diversitys Safe Climate Transport Campaign, said in a statement. These proposals are a giant gift to oil companies that will do real damage to people, wildlife and future generations. Alex Guillen contributed to this report. President Donald Trump had an eyebrow-raising superlative to offer Tuesday, calling Director of Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard the hottest in the room. While speaking at a reception with Republican lawmakers at the White House, Trump singled out Gabbarda former Democratdeclaring, Shes like, hotter than everybody. Shes the hottest one in the room right now. Turning towards House Speaker Mike Johnson, who was also in the crowd, the 79-year-old president added, Speaker, shes hotter than you right now, speaker. Shes the hottest person in the room right now, speaker, eliciting roaring laughter from attendees. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA director John Ratcliffe join a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and his intelligence team in the Situation Room at the White House on June 21. / White House / via REUTERS Hotter than everybody: Donald Trump heaped unusual praise on Tulsi Gabbard during his speech Tuesday. / Scott Olson / Scott Olson/Getty Images Gabbard, 44, has climbed to the top of Trumps internal power rankings after claiming Friday to have uncovered documents allegedly showing that the Obama administration manufactured intelligence to promote the idea that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The timing of Gabbards so-called treasonous conspiracy revelation couldnt have been more convenient for Trump, who has been desperate to divert attention from how hes handled the Jeffrey Epstein files. [Gabbard] found out that Barack Hussein Obama led a group of people and they cheated in the elections and they cheated without question, he said at the reception. It appears House Speaker Mike Johnson has been dethroned as the She has all the documents, she has everything that you need. Youve found things that nobody thought wed ever find. Very happy and very honored to have you with us. Trump added: Were very proud of you, Tulsi. Gabbard, who ran for president as a Democrat in 2020 and only left the party in 2022, claims that a sparse batch of declassified emails and meeting agendas show how Obama officials allegedly manufactured and politicized intelligence to subvert Trumps 2016 victory and launch a years-long coup against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, a bipartisan 2020 Senate report concluded Russia did influence the election to try to get Trump elected but did not conspire with him to do so. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, then a Senator serving as chairman of the Intelligence Committee, signed off on the investigation. Other reports have come to the same conclusion. After Trump labeled his predecessor a major threat to America Monday, writing, Obama himself manufactured the Russia, Russia, Russia HOAX, Obamas office issued a rare statement Tuesday. The bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction, said the statement from Obamas spokesman Patrick Rodenbush. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. As President Donald Trump has looked for new people to overhaul the board of the Tennessee Valley Authority, the publicly owned utility that supplies power to more than 10 million customers throughout the South, he drew from a familiar well: Florida. Trump nominated Art Graham, a former Jacksonville City Council member who has served on the commission that regulates Florida utilities since 2010. Graham was first appointed to the Florida Public Service Commission by then-Gov. Charlie Crist and has since been reappointed by Govs. Rick Scott and Ron DeSantis. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Graham could be ascending to the Tennessee Valley Authority at a time of enormous upheaval. According to The Atlantic, Trump, who has already fired a third of the utilitys board, threatened to terminate any other board members who did not agree to fire the CEO. So far, the board has not done so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is also reportedly considering privatizing the Tennessee Valley Authority, which was established under the New Deal to electrify parts of the South too poor to attract investor-owned utilities. Its a corporation owned by the federal government, though it does not rely on federal funding to operate. In a Monday news release, the union that represents its employees, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, promised to fight any privatization moves tooth and nail. Through a commission spokesperson, Graham declined to comment on his nomination. When asked if Graham would leave the Florida utility commission for the federal job, the spokesperson, Cindy Muir, only noted that Grahams term expires at the end of the year. Graham has generally expressed views favorable to business interests in recent cases when the companies have sought rate hikes. Last year, for example, Graham spoke up in favor of Tampa Electric shifting costs from big businesses and onto residents bills, despite the staff of the utility commission recommending against it. In another hearing in that case, Graham made a procedural move that allowed Tampa Electrics vice president of finance to avoid having to answer a question about whether the company would still be able to make needed investments without upping its rate of shareholder profit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grahams name joins a long list of Floridians whom Trump has tapped to serve in the federal government, including U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and former national security advisor Michael Waltz. The Tampa Bay Times launched the Environment Hub in 2025 to focus on some of Floridas most urgent and enduring challenges. You can contribute through our journalism fund by clicking here. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. On Tuesday, the Trump administration launched its most direct and aggressive confrontation with the judiciary so far: The Justice Department rejected a federal courts authority to name a new U.S. attorney to New Jersey to replace Alina Habba, the presidents unqualified and sycophantic interim appointee. In replacing Habba, Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, the court was acting under an express grant of power provided by Congressone explicitly permitted by the Constitution and sanctioned by history reaching back to 1789. Nonetheless, the administration responded by firing Habbas constitutionally appointed replacement from the U.S. attorneys office, then slandered the court as a corrupt body of rogue judges allegedly colluding with Democrats to override the authority of the Chief Executive. It is, of course, highly unusual for the executive branch to dismiss the power of the judiciary with such vitriol and disdain. But this administration seems emboldened by the Supreme Courts own disrespect toward the lower courts, paired with the justices expansion of executive authority to new, monarchical extremes. SCOTUS all but teed up this showdown between the two branches by awarding Trump more control over the entire federal government than perhaps any president in history has had. It should come as no surprise that he wields this presidential supremacy to reject core duties of the other two branches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As is so often the case, this crisis is largely one of Trumps own making. The president appointed Habba as interim U.S. attorney for New Jersey despite her utter lack of qualifications and her mottled record as a lawyer. Habba won the appointment by serving as Trumps personal lawyer in civil cases, including sexual harassment lawsuits. She has no prosecutorial experience, and was sanctioned by a federal judge in 2023 for filing a completely frivolous lawsuit against Hillary Clinton on Trumps behalf. (Shes also facing an ongoing ethics investigation for her questionable work on a sexual harassment case involving a Trump employee.) As interim U.S. attorney, Habba destroyed morale among prosecutors through unprofessional behavior and partisan misconduct. Among other acts, she disbanded the offices storied Civil Rights Division and filed absurd criminal charges against two Democratic politicians, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka and New Jersey Rep. LaMonica McIver. (A federal judge harshly criticized the Baraka indictment, which has since been dropped; the mayor is now suing Habba for malicious prosecution.) These antics made Habba the rare Trump nominee who could not secure confirmation in the Senate. And as an unconfirmed interim U.S. attorney, her tenure expired after 120 days under the federal statute governing this position. That law says that after 120 days are up, the attorney general may name someone else as new interim U.S. attorneyor the federal district court may appoint a U.S. attorney who serves until the vacancy is filled. Attorney General Pam Bondi evidently decided not to line up another loyalist to replace Habba; instead, she and Habba reportedly lobbied the judges on New Jerseys U.S. District Court to reappoint her. That effort flopped, and the court instead named Habbas first assistant, Desiree Leigh Grace, to replace her. Grace is an experienced and respected prosecutor, and her selection was approved by Chief Judge Renee Marie Bumb, a George W. Bush appointee. The Justice Department retaliated quickly: Within hours, Bondi announced that Grace had been fired from the U.S. attorneys office. (Bondi suggested that she fired Grace, but only the president can fire an interim U.S. attorney, so Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had to clarify that the termination came from Trump.) The DOJ, Bondi wrote, does not tolerate rogue judgesespecially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers. Her response rested on the allegation that the district court had violated the law by replacing Habba with its own, far more qualified pick. Bondi is wrong. The district court was acting pursuant to federal statute awarding it this power. And, in enacting this law, Congress was acting pursuant to an authority spelled out in the Constitution. The Trump administration believes that Article 2 crowns the president a king with absolute control over the executive branch. But the text of Article 2 refutes this idea: It allows Congress to vest the appointment of inferior officers in the courts of law. U.S. attorneys are inferior officers, as the Justice Department itself acknowledges. And Congress has long allowed courts to appoint them; indeed, the Senates initial draft of the Judiciary Act of 1789 gave district courts alone the discretion to appoint prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Victoria Bassetti, a senior adviser at States United Democracy Center and an expert on interim U.S. attorneys, told me this practice has a rich tradition. There is a long history of courts appointing prosecutors in the U.S., stretching back to the earliest days of our country, Bassetti said. In fact, it was not at all uncommon for prosecutors to be a part of the judicial branch in the early 19th century. Notably, the Trump administration previously seemed to accept this reality: Already this year, courts have already appointed 11 interim U.S. attorneys, and the Justice Department did not object. Thats presumably because, in those instances, the courts allowed Trumps interim appointee to continue serving. The DOJ only decided this arrangement is unconstitutional after a district court declined to appoint Trumps chosen prosecutor. In fairness, Bondis position may draw some support from the current Supreme Court, as ahistorical and anti-textual as it may be. In June, three conservative justices signaled that they think inter-branch appointments like this one are inconsistent with the original understanding of the separation of powers. And in Trump v. United States, the Republican-appointed majority embraced a sweeping vision of presidential power that leaves little room for Congress or the judiciary to regulate the actions and personnel of the executive branch. Then there are the optics: Even six months ago, it might have seemed unwise for the Trump administration to treat a federal court with such contempt. But this Supreme Court has rewarded the president and his deputies for defying judicial orders and neutered district courts attempts to rein them in. Last month, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned of her colleagues complicity in the creation of a culture of disdain for lower courts. By embracing that disdain, SCOTUS may have encouraged the Trump administration to escalate its battle against the judiciary by rejecting the validity of its constitutional power of appointment. What happens next? By firing Grace, Bondi did not actually prevent her from serving as the next U.S. attorney for New Jersey; there is no requirement that the appointee be a current employee of the office. So Grace can still show up for work. But Trump can swiftly fire her if she does, creating another vacancy. At that point, the legal questions get even muddier. The statute governing interim appointees puts a 120-day limit on their service, so under the spirit of the law, Habba should not serve again. And a different law, the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, bars her appointment as an acting U.S. attorney because her nomination remains pending in the Senate. But as Anne Joseph OConnell, a Stanford Law professor who specializes in vacancy issues, has pointed out, there is no penalty for reappointing an interim U.S. attorney after her term expires. For instance, it is not clear that a court would need to void her actions on the ground that she was invalidly reappointed. So Trump may attempt to reappoint Habbaa move sure to set off another legal fight that could culminate in another showdown with the federal court. Every party facing prosecution by Habba could argue that she was unlawfully appointed, rendering all charges against them invalid. That claim would be adjudicated in the very district court that tried to replace Habba. Even if the gambit ultimately failed, it could create enough problems to persuade the Justice Department to land on a permanent, qualified U.S. attorney for New Jersey. This mess could have been avoided. Theres no shortage of hard-right lawyers whom Trump could tap for this job to carry out a conservative agenda. But the president wanted an obedient hatchet woman who would persecute his political adversaries and try to help a Republican win the upcoming gubernatorial election, as Habba bragged she would. The district court had every right to send her packing once her term expired. And any other administration probably would have accepted the judges choice as the legitimate exercise of constitutional powers. To this president, though, the Constitution is just a cudgel to be wielded against anyone who tries to check his lawless abusesa view routinely affirmed by the Supreme Court. Is it any surprise that he now treats the judiciary as just another obstacle to be bulldozed? Amid increased outrage over how the Trump administration is handling the case of disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffery Epstein, his co-conspirator is also back in the news. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said July 22 that Justice Department prosecutors asked to meet with Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate and former girlfriend of Epstein. She was convicted of conspiring to sexually abuse minors over a ten-year period and is currently serving 20 years in a federal prison in Tallahassee, Florida. Hours later, the House Oversight Committee said it will subpoena Maxwell to testify before Congress "as expeditiously as possible," Axios reported. House Democrats attempted to vote to compel the release of the so-called "Epstein Files" but House Speaker Mike Johnson shut down House operations early to avoid "political games" even though he himself called for the files' release on July 15. Trump struggling with fallout from Epstein case President Donald Trump is facing unprecedented resistance from his base over the Epstein files and has lashed out at supporters and critics alike over what he called the "Jeffrey Epstein hoax." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before their falling out, Trump was friends with Epstein who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges and rumors of his potential involvement in Epstein's grooming and sexual assault of minors have dogged him since. During his presidential campaign, Trump and his allies fired up his base by vowing to release Epstein's alleged client list. After Attorney General Pam Bondi's Justice Department on July 17 released a memo stating that there was no client list, there was no evidence he was murdered while in custody, and there would be no more disclosures despite months of promises of new information, backlash was swift. Many of Trump's previously loyal followers have accused his administration of covering up powerful names and called for a full release of the files. "No one believes there is not a client list," U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Georgia, a close Trump ally, posted on X July 8. Trump opposed appointing a special prosecutor in the Epstein case, but in reaction to the backlash said on social media that he asked Bondi to "produce any and all pertinent grand jury testimony, subject to Court approval. However, this could take months and would not include witness interviews, texts, photographs, videos or other evidence, said Democratic Rep. Daniel Goldman, a former prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meantime, Maxwell's family is fighting to have her released, saying "she did not receive a fair trial." Trump, who has discouraged questions about the Epstein investigation, told reporters at the White House July 22 that the request to interview Maxwell sounds appropriate to do. Where is Ghislaine Maxwell being held? From left, American real estate developer Donald Trump and his girlfriend (and future wife), former model Melania Knauss, financier (and future convicted sex offender) Jeffrey Epstein, and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell pose together at the Mar-a-Lago club, Palm Beach, Florida, February 12, 2000. Maxwell is being held at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Tallahassee, a low-security federal prison in north Florida. When will Ghislaine Maxwell get out? Maxwell, 63, was sentenced to 20 years. Barring an early release or pardon, Maxwell will be released on July 17, 2037. She was also sentenced to five years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $750,000 fine. What was Ghislaine Maxwell charged with? Maxwell, a British socialite and daughter of publisher Robert Maxwell, was found guilty in December 2021 of conspiracy to entice minors to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, conspiracy to transport minors to participate in illegal sex acts, transporting a minor to participate in illegal sex acts, sex trafficking conspiracy, and sex trafficking of a minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From at least 1994 to around 2004, Maxwell helped Epstein "recruit, groom, and ultimately abuse victims" that both of them knew to be under the age of 18, with some as young as 14, prosecutors said. She identified vulnerable girls, often from single-mother households in difficult financial circumstances, befriended them, remained present during some of their interactions with Epstein, caused some to cross state lines to Epstein's residences, and "normalized and facilitated sexual abuse," the Justice Department said. Jeffrey Epstein case: Read the 2006 Florida grand jury transcripts Can Trump pardon Ghislaine Maxwell? She was charged in a federal court, so the president could commute her sentence or issue a full pardon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maxwell's family petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court in April to overturn her conviction, saying that Epstein had a non-prosecution and plea agreement with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida in 2008 that protected him and any co-conspirators. The Justice Department, however, has argued the agreement didn't protect co-conspirators from prosecution in other jurisdictions and Maxwell was prosecuted on other charges in Manhattan. Lower courts have rejected her attorney's arguments. Her conviction was upheld by a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York in 2024. According to journalist and Trump biographer Michael Wolff, Trump considered pardoning Maxwell during his first term but was concerned over what she might say. Trump was a longtime friend of Epstein's, calling him a "terrific guy" and once saying, "It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side." Trump later said he hadn't talked to Epstein for 10 or 15 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has sued the Wall Street Journal's publisher and its owner, Rupert Murdoch, after a recent bombshell article revealed that Trump sent Epstein a suggestive drawing with a message in which Trump reportedly alluded to their friendship and shared interests. "We have certain things in common, Jeffrey," he reportedly wrote. The letter was in response to a request from Maxwell for Epstein's family and friends to contribute to a 50th birthday album. According to TMZ, a senior Trump official said there had been no new discussions of a pardon for Maxwell, and there wouldn't be. What happens to Ghislaine Maxwell when she gets released? After she is released, unless she is pardoned, Maxwell will have all the usual sex offender restrictions and a few more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She'll have to participate in a sex-offense evaluation, outpatient sex offender treatment and/or an outpatient mental health program, according to federal court documents detailing her supervised release. She'll also have to submit to polygraph tests and probation officers will be able to search her property, computers, cloud storage, person and more, if they believe she is violating her conditions. Along with that, according to court documents: Maxwell can't access websites, chatrooms, instant messaging or social media sites without permission. She cannot access or download pornography without permission of the sex-offender specific treatment provider. She may not have any contact with the victims in the case or cause or encourage anyone else to. She may not have deliberate contact with any child under 18, unless her probation office approves it. She must stay 10 feet away from schoolyards, playgrounds, and arcades and any place regularly frequented by minors. She may not view and/or access any web profile of minors online or on social media, without permission. She cannot open new credit charges or open additional lines of credit without approval of her probation officer, who must have access to any requested financial information. Contributors: Maureen Groppe, Bart Jansen, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Ghislaine Maxwell under renewed scrutiny amid Jeffrey Epstein uproar BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) President Trump is advocating for Coca-Cola to switch to using real cane sugar, a move that could benefit Louisianas sugar industry. The proposal aligns with Trumps economic priorities of using domestic ingredients, and Coca-Cola has announced it will offer a cane sugar version for consumers who prefer it over the current corn syrup-sweetened drink. U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy praised the initiative, stating, A great move by President Trump to make America healthier again. And of course, a lot of that sugar is going to come from Louisiana. Its a great development. I applaud the president for his focus on this. And Im glad for the people of my state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fans of the initiative argue that using domestic ingredients in Coca-Cola aligns with the presidents economic priorities. Senator Cassidy emphasized that this change is a win for Louisianas robust cane sugar industry, suggesting that the state could see economic benefits from increased demand for its sugar. The push for Coca-Cola to use cane sugar could have significant implications for Louisianas economy, particularly its sugar industry, as the company plans to offer a cane sugar version of its drink. Latest News Advertisement 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 Louisiana First News. House Democrats are actively preparing for political trench warfare against the GOP in next years midterm battle, with talks taking shape behind the scenes to mount a counterattack against President Donald Trumps power play in Texas that aims to cement GOP control of Washington for the rest of his second term. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and his political team have begun privately shaping a legally risky and likely expensive strategy to redraw House maps in several Democratic-controlled states, according to Democrats briefed on the effort. They are exploring their plans in California, New York, New Jersey, Minnesota and Washington state in hopes of flipping at least a handful of Republican seats next November. Its a clear attempt to retaliate against the GOPs aggressive redistricting effort to boot out as many as five Democrats in Texas a move that will get publicly underway this week and one with the potential to give Republicans a major leg up in their fight to keep control of the House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview at Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, Jeffries made clear that his party was ready to respond in-kind to the GOP. We have a responsibility of making sure that we look at every single state of the union and do what we can to ensure that we maximize fairness in those jurisdictions, the New York Democrat said. Some of the best and brightest lawyers in the country are looking at every single aspect of whats possible in these states. Its an extraordinary push from top Democrats, who could soon embrace the kind of GOP tactics that Jeffries described as part of a scheme to rig the midterm elections especially since the redrawing of congressional maps typically happens only at the beginning of a decade to reflect changing populations and demographics. Even House Democrats privately acknowledge their emerging plan may all be moot if its fully blocked in court, according to more than a dozen Democratic lawmakers and campaign operatives involved in the discussions. Others are wary of eschewing their partys decadeslong push for fair voting rights and commissions in states that attempt to draw their congressional boundaries free from partisan politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But plenty more Democrats say they have no choice but to try to fight Trump as they face immense pressure from their base and cant risk being relegated to the minority for two more years especially since only a handful of seats could determine the next majority. We got to fight fire with fire, so I support anything the governor [Gavin Newsom] wants to do, said Rep. Eric Swalwell, who is part of the California delegation thats been meeting privately with Jeffries on the matter. We shouldnt just admire the problem. Texas Republicans and the Justice Department argue that the move is necessary over concerns that the current maps are unconstitutional and racially gerrymandered. Asked about Jeffries accusation that the GOP was attempting to rig the election, Speaker Mike Johnson fired back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats ridiculous. Hakeem Jeffries is also playing political games, the Louisiana Republican told CNN when asked about the Democratic leaders comments. In the interview with CNN, Jeffries specifically called out three states: California, New York and New Jersey. But the party is also looking closely at Minnesota and Washington state, Democratic sources said. And when asked about the push to redraw New Jerseys boundaries, Jeffries said it is incumbent upon all of us to take a close look at, how do we ensure that the congressional map, writ large, is as fair as possible in advance of the midterm election? Jeffries said he plans to sit down with his governor, Kathy Hochul, sometime in August about the maps in New York. The state just redrew its lines last year without any drastic changes to seven seats currently held by Republicans, but Jeffries suggested that more could be done to help Democrats there: Let me just simply say the maps in New York are not as fair as they could be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Greg Meeks, a fellow New Yorker and a Jeffries ally, was blunter: You cant go to a fight where they have a gun and you have a knife. Democrats brace for knock out midterm election The Democratic leader and his members have also been in close contact with the California governor, who says he is moving ahead with an expedited push to redraw his states congressional maps before next November, according to two people involved with the discussions. Behind the scenes, their focus has been on how California can overcome its own law that hands over map-drawing power to a nonpartisan redistricting commission. Its a hurdle that Democrats face in some blue states across the country: Governors and legislatures have awarded power to independent commissions to limit partisan gerrymandering unlike in Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott and state lawmakers have full control. Democrats privately acknowledge this is legally complicated and likely extremely costly, but suggest it is not insurmountable. If Republicans want to play by these rules, then I think that we shouldnt have one set of rules for one and the other set of rules for another. I think we need to even the playing board, New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez told CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such discussions in Democratic circles all began in the last two weeks after Abbott declared that he would move forward with asking the state legislature to redraw Texas maps, at the request of the White House. Trump and his team have said they believe they can squeeze five more seats out of the state something he conveyed to the Texas GOP delegation last week. (Republican leaders believe it is more likely they can get two or three, according to two people familiar with those discussions.) New seats in Texas plus an additional two or three seats that could come out of the GOPs separate map-drawing effort in Ohio may be enough to hinder Democrats chances of reclaiming the House. Rep. Marc Veasey, who is one of the Democrats being targeted in Texas, told CNN that if Republicans are successful in his state, his party will face an uphill battle to flip the House. Obviously it would make it much harder, Veasey said. I think the biggest thing that keeps Trump up at night is losing the majority in the US House of Representatives and having to answer to Democrats and be held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas Democrat said his party has no choice but to try to make up ground in California, New York and anywhere else it can: Hell yeah, I would encourage us to do that. I think you have to. Many California Democrats feel the same. I dont take anything off the table, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told CNN, adding that the state can get its voters to approve the change. We would not have any majority in the Congress without that big, vast number [of Democratic seats in California], but we always want more, so one way or another. So I dont take anything off the table. Rep. Lou Correa of California said the stakes are too high not to try to squeeze out more seats, adding: Its gonna be a knockout midterm election like you havent seen in a long time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there are some members particularly progressives, who have long championed voting rights who are uncomfortable with the Democratic push. I think it is unacceptable and dangerous for essentially what people marched during the Civil Rights Movement for, Rep. Greg Casar, a Texas Democrat who leads the Congressional Progressive Caucus, told CNN when asked whether states like California and New York should consider the same approach as his own state. Colin Diersing, a spokesman for Casar, said after the story published that the congressman was referring to Texas and Abbott in his comments to CNN and supports Newsoms plans and that other Democratic governors should follow suit. Some Democrats who sit in swing districts worry about the fallout. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Rep. Tom Suozzi, a Democrat whose district includes parts of Long Island, said changing the maps now is probably not a good idea. Traditionally people do this every 10 years after the census, so that seems like the normal thing to me, Suozzi said. But Jeffries predicted that its the Republican push that is a risky one, contending that changing solidly red districts in Texas in order to make Democratic districts more competitive could have the effect of putting more swing voters in GOP strongholds. We believe it may actually backfire, and that they may draw lines that endanger their Republican incumbents, who we will have a better chance of defeating in the 2026 midterm election, Jeffries said. Republicans need to make sure we keep the House So far, Texas GOP leaders and the White House have shared few details about their soon-to-be-unveiled maps with the states House delegation. That will change in the coming days, with the state legislature returning for a special session this week to consider them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas Republicans are now largely on board with the White Houses plan, though one member of the delegation told CNN last week that there is a real fear the White House may overreach and end up creating ultra-competitive seats that Democrats can win. Texas Rep. Pete Sessions who lost his seat in Trumps first midterm in 2018, just before state Republicans redrew their map to better protect GOP incumbents is taking a cautious approach. Hes been in touch with the White House personally, though he declined to share details of those conversations. As you recall, New York did this a year or two ago, Sessions said, referencing the Democratic effort that ended up costing their party seats after the map faced legal challenges. Just because the legislature does something, its still subject to the law. Other Texas Republicans are encouraging Trumps team to be even more aggressive. I support the governor in his effort because we need to make sure we keep the House. We got to keep the House, Rep. Troy Nehls told CNN. If we can get five, lets get five. Yeah, Id like to try to get six. Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina, who leads the House GOP campaign arm, said hes staying out of the redistricting fight. But he acknowledged that it could bolster his partys chances of keeping the chamber next year. Any seats that we gain before Election Day would be nice, Hudson said. While he said any Democratic gerrymandering effort would be out of my control he also stressed that states like California have vastly different laws than Texas. Ill deal with the battlefield that Im presented, and right now it looks really good for Republicans. This story has been updated with additional comment from a spokesman for Rep. Greg Casar. CNNs Alison Main, Ileya Robinson-Williams and Casey Riddle contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The News Mike Rounds hasnt even launched a re-election campaign. He certainly hadnt sought out an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Yet it arrived this week anyway three years after the South Dakota GOP senator said the 2020 election was fair and Trump vowed that he would never endorse this jerk again. Shortly after Trump met on Monday with the states other senator, Majority Leader John Thune, the president called Rounds. Trump then posted his complete and total endorsement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rounds told Semafor that he took it as a sign of Trumps pragmatic approach to Republican senators who havent always aligned with him. He has the ability to look at the practical side of things, and decide we can still work together, Rounds said. Hes found out that Im very serious about trying to work to get things done. And we agree on a whole lot more than we disagree on. A Trump shift toward forgiving and forgetting lawmakers past perceived transgressions could have far-reaching implications for his party, especially in Texas and Louisiana. In Texas, GOP Sen. John Cornyn is facing state attorney general Ken Paxton in the countrys roughest primary, and polls show Paxton could make the seat harder to hold in a general election. And perhaps no GOP senator has a tougher path to winning over Trump than Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., who voted to convict the president in his 2021 impeachment trial. Cassidy was invited twice last week to the White House, though, to celebrate legislative victories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While its early to declare a new Trump rule for endorsements, his support of Rounds and close working relationship with Thune whom Trump once vowed to take down in a primary has most of his party optimistic that hell prioritize keeping the Senate majority and backing incumbents. A White House official said theres no litmus test or a line to govern getting an endorsement: Its different for every person. Still, this official added, its a little too early on some of the more questionable ones Its [about] getting a better lay of the land and having better context as we get closer to the midterms. Cornyn publicly questioned Trumps ability to win a general election a couple of years ago which wasnt exactly a unique opinion in the party heading into the 2024 election. But now Cornyn is optimistic that Trump might back him if he can close the polling gap with Paxton, who leads in early surveys. Hes also unworried about past comments sinking his chances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JD Vance wouldnt be vice president and Marco Rubio wouldnt be secretary of state if the president held a grudge, Cornyn told Semafor, referring to both mens past critical comments about Trump. And I said nothing to compare with what they said. There are also persistent rumors in the party that Paxton could be offered a job in the Trump administration that would head off the primary. One person close to Trump suggested nothing firm is in the works, but speculated that a Paxton offer is possible. Meanwhile, Cassidy spoke to the president at both events he attended this week but has not yet broached an endorsement. Hes planning to launch his re-election campaign next month. I got my shoutout, and continue to work very well together, Cassidy said of his visits with Trump. I dont tend to speak for the president. But ... right now weve got a great working relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump does like winners, and Cassidy has released internal poll numbers showing him way ahead of Louisiana Treasurer John Fleming. Republicans still believe another candidate, like Louisiana Rep. Julia Letlow, could enter the Senate primary. Will he endorse Cassidy? I seriously doubt it. Will he leave him alone? I think so, said the person close to Trump. Polling is polling. [The president] is well past the time when he used to do things because he liked a guy. Know More Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, hasnt launched her re-election campaign yet, either, but nonetheless got invited to the White House recently for a meeting with officials about a third bid, which Republicans see as vital for keeping the majority. Shes another case of Trump embracing Republicans whove gone their own way in the Trump era. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ernst said warm things about Nikki Haley, Trumps top primary foe, but quickly backed him after Haley dropped out in 2024. Now she said shes getting strong encouragement from the White House. Theres always a lot of palace intrigue. It was nice to sit down and visit with the White House, and Im so supportive of President Trump and everything hes doing, Ernst said in an interview. Asked if Trump would endorse her, she replied: Yeah, I think he would. Ernst, Cassidy, and Cornyn have voted with Trump reliably since he became president, though not always reflexively. Ernst initially balked at Pete Hegseths nomination to be defense secretary, Cassidy struggled with the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Health and Human Services Department, and Rounds wrestled with Trumps $9 billion spending cuts package. But Trump endorsed Rounds soon after the South Dakota Republican voted for those cuts. Rounds said that vote didnt come up in his conversation with the president on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House official said Trump is appreciative of anyone who helped pass his big beautiful tax and spending cuts bill earlier this month. Ernst, Cassidy, Cornyn, and Rounds are all in that camp. Room for Disagreement Retiring Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., was one of the GOPs three dissenters on the megabill. He told Semafor that before his decision not to run again, he didnt ask for Trumps endorsement and isnt sure that his endorsement would have helped me in a general election in North Carolina next year. Im not sure that the presidents endorsement was something I would have sought this time. I didnt seek it the last time, but it was helpful, Tillis said. And the fact that I would or would not get it had nothing to do with my decision to not run again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, also opposed that bill. She also voted to convict Trump in 2021s impeachment, among many votes shes broken with him on. She told Semafor Ive never had his endorsement and Ive never sought it. And I run my own race. Then theres the special case of Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., whom Trump wants to defeat in a primary after Massies repeated clashes with the president so far this year. Burgess and Shelbys View We often hear how important loyalty is to the president and thats still the case. Hes simultaneously showing that he can put that aside when it comes to winning Senate seats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It may have helped that he learned in 2022 how hard it is to beat incumbent senators; that year he mounted a failed attempt to oust Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. Trumps team includes campaign veterans like Susie Wiles whom he trusts enough to help steer him. For Wiles and other top aides, winning in the midterms is crucial more crucial than publicly flaming a lawmaker who has a history of irritating Trump. Trumps advisers also understand GOP primaries are not helpful. The White House worked with the National Republican Senatorial Committee to avoid a contested primary in Michigan, for example, and theyre working in tandem to convince Ernst to run again. The president also knows governing isnt easy, and hes cognizant of the dramas that plagued him eight years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one inside the administration, particularly Trump, wants to risk dealing with impeachments or stalled bills again even if that means backing some Republicans who annoyed him in the past. Notable President Donald Trump would have forced Bryan Kohberger to publicly explain why he killed four Idaho college students after the cold-blooded killer declined to share his motive during his sentencing hearing. After sharing a message from the White House to the families of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20, who were brutally stabbed to death inside an Idaho home in 2022, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that if it were up to Trump, more would be done to deliver justice. "If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, Leavitt said, despite there being no obligation for Kohberger to share a motive for the crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The horrifying November 2022 killings of the four University of Idaho students shocked the college town of Moscow and captivated national audiences due to the sheer violence with no clear motive. Kohberger maintained his innocence for over two years until July 2, when he abruptly took a plea deal. With the deal, he pleaded guilty to all four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, and became no longer eligible for the death penalty. "While Life Imprisonment is tough, it's certainly better than receiving the Death Penalty but, before Sentencing, I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders," Trump wrote on Truth Social after the plea deal. "There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING." Shortly after Bryan Kohberger was sentenced to life in prison, the White House said Trump would have forced him to tell why he committed the murders. (AP) The plea deal also included no obligation for Kohberger to share his motive, apologize or express remorse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While defendants can use their statement during a sentencing hearing to express remorse, or explain their actions before their sentencing, the U.S. Constitutions 5th Amendment guarantees the right to remain silent during sentencing hearings, meaning they can choose not to speak at all. Judge Steven Hippler on Wednesday handed Kohberger four consecutive life sentences, and an additional 10 years for burglary, without the possibility of parole. Kohberger remained quiet during the hearing, held in Boise, Idaho, speaking only to respectfully decline the opportunity to address the court and divulge why he committed the horrific murders. Parents who took children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins, an emotional Hippler said. The judge acknowledged the families desire to learn why Kohberger committed the murders, but said the public may never learn the reasoning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Mr. Kohberger relevance, we give him agency. We give him power, Hippler said. The need to know what is inherently not understandable makes us dependent upon the defendant to provide us with a reason, and that gives him the spotlight, the attention and the power he appears to crave. If it were up to the President, he would have forced this monster to publicly explain why he chose to steal these innocent souls, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. (via REUTERS) During the emotional, nearly three-hour-long hearing, the parents, grandparents, siblings and two surviving roommates of the four slain students confronted Kohberger as he sat, largely uninterested, wearing an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs. Even the Latah County Prosecuting Attorney Bill Thompson was moved to tears by the case as he recommended Kohberger spend the rest of his life behind bars. Kohbergers defense attorneys announced last week that they would not be releasing any statements for the sentencing. After he changed his plea to guilty, both sides agreed to a proposed sentencing of four consecutive life sentences without parole, in addition to 10 years for the burglary charge. Kohberger waived his right to appeal any issues in the case. Washington President Trump announced a trade deal with the Philippines after meeting with the country's president at the White House on Tuesday, an announcement he followed with details of another trade agreement with Indonesia later in the day. Mr. Trump announced the Philippines tariffs agreement after a trade-focused Oval Office meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. The tariff rate for goods imported into the U.S. from both the Philippines and Indonesia will be 19%, the president said. In a post on Truth Social, Mr. Trump said the Philippines will lift all tariffs on imported U.S. goods. The Philippines has not yet confirmed the existence of an agreement or any details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs," Mr. Trump wrote. "The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff. In addition, we will work together Militarily. It was a Great Honor to be with the President. He is Highly Respected in his Country, as he should be. He is also a very good, and tough, negotiator. We extend our warmest regards to the wonderful people of The Philippines!" The 19% tariff rate is just shy of the 20% tariff rate the Trump administration was set to impose on the Philippines. And it's also higher than the so-called reciprocal tariff of 17% on Philippine imports the administration announced in April. In his Oval Office meeting, Mr. Trump said the U.S. and the Philippines were "very close" to reaching a deal, calling Marcos a tough negotiator. "We're very close to finishing a trade deal, big trade deal," Mr. Trump said, seated alongside Marcos. "And we do a lot of business with you, so a lot of income coming in for both groups." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. and Indonesia released a joint statement Tuesday afternoon with details of their trade deal. Under the terms, which the president has teased before, Indonesian products will also face a 19% tariff rate, but U.S. products heading to Indonesia generally will not face tariffs. According to the joint statement, Indonesia will drop its tariff rate to zero for 99% of its trade with the U.S. "It is agreed that Indonesia will be Open Market to American Industrial and Tech Products, and Agricultural Goods, by eliminating 99% of their Tariff Barriers," Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The United States of America will now sell American-made products to Indonesia at a Tariff Rate of ZERO, while Indonesia will pay 19% on all of their products coming into the U.S.A. The Best Market in the World!" Goods that are "transshipped or contain a lot of content from certain countries" through Indonesia will be tariffed at 40%, a senior administration official told reporters on a conference call about the agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among other aspects of the deal, Indonesia will also remove export restrictions on critical minerals and accept U.S. Food and Drug Administration certificates and prior marketing authorization for medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Aug. 1 is the Trump administration's current deadline for countries to reach trade agreements with the U.S. or face higher tariff rates on goods sent to the U.S. Extended interview: Jake Wesley Rogers on faith, identity and his debut album Video shows conditions inside New York City immigrant detention facility U.S. Olympic Committee effectively bars transgender women from competing in Olympic women's sports President Trump has said that he anticipates receiving at least $20 million in advertising, public service announcements or similar programming from incoming Paramount Global owner Skydance as part of a settlement to resolve a lawsuit that 60 Minutes conducted with Kamala Harris. In a Tuesday Truth Social post, Trump confirmed chatter of a side deal with the incoming Skydance regime that more than doubles the $16 million agreement that Paramount initially attached to the resolution of the case. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps announcement directly clashed with Paramounts characterization of the settlement. When the deal was announced earlier this month, it said that it has no knowledge of any promises or commitments made to President Trump other than those set forth in the settlement. Also on Tuesday: Lawyers for Trump and Paramount formalized the deal, with both sides moving to dismiss the lawsuit. The filing didnt include details of the settlement, unlike when ABC News reached an agreement to resolve a lawsuit from Trump over comments from Good Morning America and This Week anchor George Stephanopoulos. Per court documents, the two sides in that case explicitly laid out the terms of the deal, including timing of the payments. Theres not obligation to publicly disclose the details of a settlement, though the widespread belief that Paramount would settle what was widely believed to be a frivolous lawsuit to open a pathway to regulatory approval of its merger with Skydance necessitated some degree of transparency on what the agreement looked like. Those details came directly from the company when the deal was announced close to midnight on July 1 rather than court fillings. Whether a party thats not formally a part of the litigation can participate in a settlement will be questioned. The Paramount-Skydance merger has not officially been greenlit. Its unknown whether the deal Trump announced is actually a part of his settlement with Paramount. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rather, Trumps characterization of the deal could hint at expected concessions new Paramount will have to make for the FCC to approve the transfer of the companys broadcast licenses to Skydance. Talks are already underway, with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and its Hollywood Local 399 and the conservative public interest group the Center for American Rights playing a prominent part. The latter group has called for increased viewpoint diversity, meaning more promotion of conservative perspectives. Also in play: more ideological diversity on the companys board of directors and a requirement that CBS have an independent, well funded, empowered, balanced ombudsman or oversight board that would monitor for bias. David Ellison has recently held talks about acquiring The Free Press, the online publication co-founded by Bari Weiss, The New York Times reported. Theres already legal blowback, with more expected down the road. The Freedom of the Press Foundation has sent to Paramount a demand for information related to its decision to settle, with plans to file a lawsuit on behalf of investors against controlling shareholder Shari Redstone and the board. Related are potential investigations by lawmakers like Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders into whether Paramount violated anti-bribery laws, though theres skepticism about how those legal actions will fare absent a smoking a gun. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. President Donald Trump was told by Attorney General Pam Bondi that hes mentioned multiple times in files related to the probe of notorious sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, according to a new report Wednesday. Bondi told Trump in May that his name appears alongside many other prominent people in Department of Justice documents about the Epstein case, The Wall Street Journal reported. The crucial meeting at which Bondi briefed Trump came shortly before she released a controversial memo declaring the Trump administration wouldnt release any more information about the bombshell investigation, the paper said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since being told hes in the files, Trump, who admits once being a close friend of the notorious pedophile, has repeatedly sought to quiet the firestorm over the Epstein case and even called it a hoax hatched by his political opponents. The White House Wednesday dodged questions about the Wall Street Journal scoop. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media, said White House communications director Steven Cheung. Trump denied a specific question about whether Bondi told him he was included in the Epstein files outside the White House on July 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, did she tell you at all that your name appeared in the files? a reporter asked Trump. No, no. Shes given us just a very quick briefing, and in terms of the credibility of the different things that theyve seen, Trump responded. Before his second inauguration in January, Trump and his MAGA allies spent years demanding the release of far more information about the Epstein case. As public furor over the Epstein case has exploded in recent weeks, Trump has sought to deflect criticism. He ordered Bondi to seek the release of grand jury testimony in the case, which experts say is likely to be much more tame than the materials in the files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bombshell WSJ report dropped on a day of fast-moving developments in the Epstein case, which has divided Trump from his right-wing MAGA base. A Florida judge on Wednesday rejected a Trump administration request to unseal transcripts from grand jury investigations of Epstein years ago in Florida. A similar records request is pending before a Manhattan federal judge who presided over the trial of convicted Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The former socialite pal of Epstein, who is appealing her 20-year prison sentence, opposes the request. A congressional committee has issued Maxwell a subpoena for a deposition but its unclear if she will agree to appear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another Republican-controlled panel is considering demanding release of all the Epstein files, with several GOP lawmakers saying they will join Democrats to back the move. House Speaker Mike Johnson scrapped most congressional legislative business and sent lawmakers home early for their August recess in hopes the political firestorm dies down. _____ President Donald Trump has promised to reduce American drug prices by mathematically impossible figures of up to 1400 percent. Speaking during a White House event attended by Republican members of Congress and his Cabinet, Trump said he would tackle the long-running issue of high medication costs in the U.S. Photo Illustration by Eric Faison/The Daily Beast/Getty Images But Trump did not set any achievable targets for that aim, instead outlining a range of percentages which would yield negative prices, meaning drug companies would have to pay people to take their medications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will have reduced drug prices by 1,000 percent by 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 700, 600, Trump said. Not 30 or 40 or 50 percent, but numbers the likes of which youve never even dreamed of before. Donald Trump vowed to slash drug prices by impossible amounts while speaking to Republicans in the White House. / Andrew Cabello-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images Trump added that his numbers were previously not even thought to be achievable,mainly because they arentbut he believes he can somehow pull it off because Ive used a certain talent that I have and convinced the drug companies that you have no choice. Trumps threat involves warning European countries that they will no longer be able to sell cars in the U.S. unless their pharmaceutical companies lower their drug prices. Youre no longer allowed to have Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen or any of the other many cars and they will say, Oh, I love the idea of lower drug prices for America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps bragging about how much he claims he will lower drug costs in the U.S. has been widely mocked after a clip of his remarks went viral on social media. Hard to imagine this guy was found liable of fraud for making up numbers, the liberal media company MeidasTouch posted on X. Justin Wolfers, economist and professor at the University of Michigan, added: Thank goodness this guy isnt negotiating the percentages we pay in tariffs. Donald Trump also vowed to tackle high drug prices during his first term in office. / Andrew Cabello-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images In May, Trump announced his plans to almost immediately cut drug prices by the actually theoretically possible figures of between 30 percent and 80 percent. Trump said the move would be one of the most consequential executive orders in the countrys history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his Tuesday speech, Trump repeated a story about how one of his friends who takes the fat drug Ozempic complained to him about how he paid $88 for it in London, whereas it would cost him $1,300 in New York. I explained to him that thats the way its been for many, many years, Trump said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Daily Beast. CINCINNATI In recent years, if you lived in the Queen City metropolitan area and your young child was severely ill, or dying of a terminal condition, chances are good that you encountered Ayman Soliman, who until recently was a Muslim chaplain at the renowned Cincinnati Childrens Hospital. Whatever your faith or beliefs, he would have consoled you and your family in your darkest hours, in the kind of moment that every parent lives in abject terror of ever having to face. If you and your family were Muslim, the chaplain may have answered your questions about whether a do-not-resuscitate order for your child was permitted by the Quran. One former colleague of the imam recounts that specifically because of Soliman, there are poor members of the community who did not need to worry about paying for the funerals of their babies who didnt make it out of the hospital alive. Absolutely none of that matters to President Donald Trump and his administration, which is seeking to deport Soliman back to Egypt, where he and his advocates say he will be marked for death in part due to his work as a journalist there in the midst of the Arab Spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soliman was granted asylum during Trumps first presidency. Ever since then, he says hes been working to earn his American citizenship, and to bring his family to the United States to reunite with him. Two weeks ago, Trumps Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Soliman away, following a routine check-in at the Homeland Security facility in the Cincinnati suburb of Blue Ash. Since July 9, Soliman has been held at the Butler County jail, with the Trump administration proclaiming him to be an Egyptian national [who] was flagged on the FBI terror watchlist. His arrest has sparked a local uproar, with community and religious leaders and state and federal lawmakers rallying to his defense. A local bridge protest supporting Soliman ended in the arrests of more than a dozen people, including two journalists who were simply covering the event and now face charges of felony rioting. On Tuesday morning, ahead of his bond hearing in his case, Soliman delivered Rolling Stone a brief message from behind bars, relayed by Tala Ali, a local friend and advocate for the imam. Im just hoping that I will get the due process that will bring me my life back, he said. I hope the court will correct the big terrible mistake that the [U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services] made. Im confident I have a very solid case, and should have asylum to save my life. This is a terrible mistake and I hope the terrible mistake that the USCIS made will be corrected. Its been a very difficult time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ali says that when we hung up, he said he was going to prepare for court and go pray. Ali adds that the first day he got to the jail, he asked what accommodations they had for Muslims, and that in the time since, hes been advocating for kosher and halal meals. There was someone in another block there, facing criminal allegations, who wanted to see a chaplain, and Ayman wasnt able to see them, but behind a wall and door, the two of them talked for an hour. Multiple associates say that Soliman has told them recently that if he gets out and is allowed to remain in Ohio, he wants to go back regularly to this Butler County jail to help as a chaplain. His advocates say bond was not granted Tuesday afternoon, and another hearing was set for next week; the former Cincinnati Childrens chaplain will remain in jail for now. The advocates add that the lawyer for Trumps Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argued in court that the immigration judge had no jurisdiction over this matter and could not make a ruling one way or another. The governments attorney brought up the terror list flags, which Solimans attorneys say are unfounded, evidence-free smears on their client. The Trump administration argues that Solimans legal status was revoked because of alleged Muslim Brotherhood connections. Egypts leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, whom Trump once called my favorite dictator, has ruthlessly targeted the Islamist organization, and personally advised Trump to designate it as a terrorist group, as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group that Mr. Soliman worked for is not connected to the Muslim Brotherhood, is not a terrorist organization, and does in fact provide charitable works in Egypt, Robert Ratliff, one of his lawyers, said this week. Solimans team previously stated that he faces death if forced to return to Egypt. The Department of Homeland Security [on Tuesday] did not present any evidence in court to support its claim that Ayman provided material support to a terrorist organization, Nazly Mamedova, another attorney for Soliman, writes in a statement to Rolling Stone. Furthermore, in the updated Notice to Appear (NTA), DHS removed any reference to Ayman providing such support, she continues, adding: We hope that the immigration judge will reject the governments baseless accusations and grant Aymans release on bond while his proceedings continue. Soliman, who has been living and working in the U.S. and seeking citizenship for more than a decade, has long maintained that he faces serious danger, or death, from Egypts repressive government if hes sent back. He, his advocates, and his legal team say that the federal claims of terrorism or Muslim Brotherhood connections are possibly or in part rooted in a case of mistaken identity, an assertion Soliman has already attempted to hash out in court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close associates of Soliman raise the point that it would be bizarre for an actual terrorist operative to, by his own accord, file a lawsuit challenging the FBI on the terror-list flags, because that would draw more public attention to himself and his activities. And if the Trump administrations accusations are true, that would suggest that Kash Patels FBI and Attorney General Pam Bondi allowed a dangerous terrorist to roam freely around Cincinnati during the opening six months of the Trump administration. He deserves his due process and his day in court. There are questions that need to be answered, and they should be. But if the FBI actually thought this guy was such a threat, then why didnt they pick him up in the past seven months? Why is he in ICE custody now, and not the bureaus, if thats the case? says Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio), who has been in touch with Solimans team since before his arrest. For what its worth, from everything Ive heard from people who know him including a neighbor who took the time to walk a letter over to me, about how he helped her and her family when their child was at Childrens it sounds like he is a decent man who is cared about deeply by much of the community here. Since his July 9 arrest, Rolling Stone spoke to numerous individuals legislators, activists, those who worked with him at Cincinnati Childrens, attorneys, longtime Jewish, Muslim, and Christian residents of the area, family members of sick kids who got to know Soliman familiar with this man and his local work, in and out of the medical center. None of them can square what Trumps government is claiming, that this imam is a potential national-security threat who needs to be jailed then deported, with the person they know. When asked about the Trump administrations terrorist claims against Soliman, several of his friends and local associates say its all bullshit and that if he really is some sort of Islamist sleeper agent, then hes been failing miserably at the gig. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If hes a terrorist then hes the worst terrorist imaginable; hes a bullshit terrorist. Hes very bad at his job then, says Rev. Elizabeth Diop, who until recently worked as a fellow chaplain at Cincinnati Childrens. Every word that youve read about him from people who know him is a true word. He would do anything for you. Even in fucking detention, hes counseling people who are locked up right now. Hes providing spiritual care; hes the chaplain of his unit right now. He needs to be alive. Hes got work to do here, hes got work to do to help heal the world. Diop says she was recently fired from the hospital after speaking to a local news outlet and thus apparently violating the medical centers strict rules on granting unauthorized interviews to the media. She says she doesnt regret her decision and that she feels compelled to keep speaking out publicly in support of Soliman. Aymans worth it. I lost my job, I kept my soul, she says. One parent, who asked not to be named, says that Soliman was there for her family at Cincinnati Childrens when their small child was fighting a grave illness. I would have fallen to pieces without Ayman, this Cincinnati-area parent says. We need more people like him, not less If Donald Trump wants him out, then who is good enough to stay? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A nurse who works at Childrens and knows Soliman corroborates that his main thing that Im aware of is working with families and the patients in the ICU, when theres a decision to be made that could lead to the childs demise It really aids in our ability to care for those children. The nurse continues that Soliman was where he was meant to be. Some people back away from those situations because theyre hard and nobody wants to have to go through them but he was a person who wanted to go in the opposite direction. The nurse, like so many other current and former hospital staffers, says the medical personnel and employees at Cincinnati Childrens overwhelmingly want him back, and that he played a vital role in literal life-or-death situations. Diop adds that over the course of four years, she had seen him work with unwell kids on various occasions, including with children suffering from mental illness and PTSD, or who had been through terrible trauma, or often not had a safe and stable adult in their world. A lot of people in the outside world looked at these kids like they were aliens, she says. But he never did. He looked at them as beloved children of God, you could tell he treasured them. You never had to translate the kids for Ayman, he just understood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the people most intimately familiar with the imams work is Marc Zumhagen, an ex-colleague of Solimans and formerly a longtime overnight chaplain at Cincinnati Childrens. I worked with Ayman every day and we would get coffee several times a week, Zumhagen says in an interview with Rolling Stone, adding that conservatively, he would estimate that Soliman worked on cases involving 15-30 deaths of children every year. When asked what kind of man Soliman is, and what his work meant to people who came through or staffed the hospital, Zumhagen tells the story of one child, about eight-years-old, who was at Cincinnati Childrens in the latter half of the Biden era. Zumhagen had also been in the room for much of this familys horrific ordeal. According to Zumhagen, following a terrible condition, subsequent infections, and procedures that werent working to save the kids life, the parents were, of course, in a miserable state as their child was on the verge of death. As the parents attempted to figure out what to do, the doctors and medical staff presented the family with a choice: They could authorize very drastic treatment with likely little hope of success, or they could end care. It was the middle of the night. Thats when I called Ayman, the hospitals former overnight chaplain recalls, as these parents feel like theyre holding a gun to their own kids head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zumhagen says, I believe they were a Muslim, Arabic-speaking family, and the look of relief on the familys face when Ayman came in was instant. Sometimes, when youre in that room sitting with the doctors, it can feel hostile, just in the way youre seated, even if its of course not meant to. But Ayman had this remarkable way of coming in and sitting next to the family, even if he had to move furniture. He just had this way of connecting with the family, and translating things between the doctors and family in perfect Arabic. At that moment, as the family was weeping and agonizing over their decision, Zumhagen says that the parents wanted to know what Islam says about this. Then, not long after, came a point where the conversation shifted and both parents both nodded their heads and there was this moment of peace in the room. Zumhagen says he asked Soliman later what they discussed, and his friend said the parents asked if Muhammad ever faced anything like this. Soliman then reminded the family about the suffering Muhammad endured, as told in the pages of the Quran, and how awful it is to see a child go through such suffering. He reminded the family that ultimately, its not up to us: Some things are just in Allahs hands now and Allah has a path at the end of the day. He assured the family that they would not be bad parents for not wanting their child to suffer anymore, and that they could make the decision not to pursue likely doomed, extreme measures and instead spend these last hours of the childs life peacefully. The family decided to withdraw care, Zumhagen says. He gave them peace, he adds. I was there to take the patient to the morgue after, and Ayman stayed there to comfort the family the whole night, including by making sure food arrangements were taken care of for them, so they did not have to worry about that I know he remained in touch with them, and followed up with them, because they wanted their child to be buried back home, so he had to work with the international liaison and funeral homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before our conversation ended, Zumhagen wanted to stress something else. He said that there are so many deaths in the NICU, meaning the neonatal intensive care unit at the medical center, and that many who came were very poor folks and it pained Ayman that these families would have to pay for funerals for their children. So, the overnight chaplain says, Soliman took it upon himself to do a lot of research and called different funeral homes in the area, and found one in Northern Kentucky that would do infant funerals free of charge. That was a godsend to our poor NICU families who, here you are, grieving the death of these children and not just your child but everything you thought they would be doing and now youre thinking about how youre going to afford to bury them, Zumhagen says. Ayman didnt want them to suffer through that so, he did something about it. In the final weeks of the Biden administration, Soliman received word that the process had begun to rescind his asylum status. It was unclear why his status, which hed had since 2018, was imperiled, though his team suspected it was due to issues stemming from the FBI flags or his lawsuit. In June, months after Trump was sworn back into office, Solimans asylum status was officially revoked, and he began to fear the worst. The situation with his status made it virtually impossible to work at Cincinnati Childrens, which has not listed him as a chaplain on its website for months. Lawyers and others close to his case say that they view his jailing as a direct consequence of the second Trump administrations highly draconian, quota-obsessed crackdowns on both legal and illegal immigration. At the very least, if Soliman had officially lost his asylum status under President Joe Biden (or, President Kamala Harris, had she won last year), attorneys and others close to Soliman say there would have been other contingencies that dont seem to exist in this current system. Furthermore, they say, its hard to see why a different administration would insist on jailing the imam, especially for this long, or on immediately deporting him to Egypt. For now, Soliman sits in jail, adding yet another single-digit to the daily quotas for arrests that the Trump White House has been aggressively leaning on the government to meet, whether the rounded-up have criminal records or not. Today, there is the expected anger, along with the inevitable combination of despair and hope for his case, coming from his supporters and friends in Ohio and Kentucky. Rolling Stone asked some of them what they would say to President Trump, Ohio-born Vice President J.D. Vance, DHS secretary Kristi Noem, or White House policy architect Stephen Miller if they were sitting in front of them right now. The aforementioned Cincinnati-area parent who requested anonymity candidly said shed tell them all, Fuck you, and youre a disgrace. Judy Ragsdale, who says she hired Soliman back when she served as the senior director of Pastoral Care at Cincinnati Childrens, says that as a Christian minister, Im deeply saddened by the cruel anti-Muslim actions of the country that I love. Ragsdale sent that comment late Wednesday morning, as she sat at the Butler County jail waiting to see Ayman, she says. Zumhagen, for his part, had only the following to say: I would tell them that its another act of cruelty, not only to Ayman but also to the community. Its hurting American citizens and the city. But as much as Id love to rant and rave to push that point to its very end, I cant help but think about what Ayman would say to them which is: Hello, my friend. There are a lot of people who are hurting right now and they need our help and we need to figure out how we can help them. 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. This story was originally published on MyNorthwest.com President Donald Trump reflected on Bryan Kohbergers plea bargain deal, demanding that the judge push Kohberger to detail his motive behind brutally killing four University of Idaho students. Kohberger pleaded guilty to killing Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, and Madison Mogen, for what Trump labeled as vicious murders of four wonderful young souls, in a post on Truth Social. Trump calls for Bryan Kohbergers motive in Idaho murders Kohberger avoided a potential death penalty sentence by pleading guilty earlier this month to the murders of four University of Idaho students at a rental home near the campus in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger admitted to breaking into the students rental home through a sliding door, stabbing and killing four students he had no prior connection to. Prosecutors in the case explained that Kohberger had spent months carefully planning his attack, and his background as a criminal justice graduate at Washington State University aided in his attempt to cover up the murders. Kohberger is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday, and is expected to serve four life sentences in prison with no possibility of parole. WASHINGTON The Trump administrations disregard for Congress and its power of the purse is putting senior Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) in an awkward spot as she heads towards a crucial reelection battle next year. As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Collins should have tremendous influence over legislation allocating federal funding to various government programs and getting them to the Senate floor, an argument she maderepeatedly during her 2020 Senate campaign. Doing so requires bipartisan agreement in the Senate, where 60 votes are necessary to overcome a filibuster. Yet the White House made clear it has little respect for the appropriations process or bipartisan input in general. The administration has frozen billions of dollars in funding Congress passed earlier this year, shuttered federal agencies without congressional approval, and passed partisan rescissions clawing back spending previously approved on a bipartisan basis essentially making Collins job a lot less influential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins objections to that approach have largely been ignored, however, and the Trump administration is preparing even more rescissions that could further poison the appropriations process. How the senator handles the situation could determine whether the government plunges into a shutdown and could potentially have ramifications for her bid for a sixth term next year in Maine, where polls show her standing has suffered in recent months. Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine and chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, leads a hearing with Trump budget chief Russell Vought. Bloomberg via Getty Images When asked this week how she felt about the White House undermining bipartisan efforts to pass spending bills, Collins put a positive spin on things. Were on track on the appropriations process. Were actually ahead of where we were last year at this time, Collins told HuffPost. Thats a pretty low bar. The Senate is on the verge of passing its first spending bill this year a largely uncontroversial pot of money dealing with military construction projects and veterans affairs. It wont take up the 11 additional, tougher-to-pass bills until September, after the August recess, giving lawmakers just a few weeks to keep the government open before a Sept. 30 deadline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans in the House, meanwhile, are pushing for even more draconian spending cuts that Democrats have already called a nonstarter. That lawmakers may have to pass another continuing resolution, or CR essentially kicking the can down the road by funding the government at last years levels is virtually a guaranteed conclusion at this point. Democratic senators haunted by their decision to cave to the GOP on government funding earlier this year are still struggling to align on strategy for the next shutdown fight. This week, they voted to advance spending on military construction projects and veterans affairs. But theyre warning that will change if the White House pushes for another rescissions package, which they used to cut funding for PBS, NPR and foreign aid programs by majority vote earlier this month. All of which is complicating Collins role as chair of the appropriations committee. Last week, the Maine Republican opposed Trumps rescissions bill but the measure passed anyway after a tiebreaking vote from Vice President JD Vance. Collins managed to succeed in removing $400 million in cuts to PEPFAR, the George W. Bush-era program focused on fighting AIDS, from the bill. But she decided against pursuing a separate effort to reduce cuts to funds for public broadcasting. Had she done so, the amendment likely would have been adopted, threatening to scuttle the bills passage since conservatives in the House wanted deeper cuts. Democrats later put up the same amendment for a vote, but Republicans rejected it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An aide to the senator told HuffPost that, had the amendment succeeded, the bill could have ended up with the original rescissions package that included the PEPFAR cuts she had successfully advocated to be removed. The Trump administration, meanwhile, is threatening big Collins priorities, further undermining her gavel. The White House froze and sought to eliminate federal funding for programs critical for Mainers like Head Start and LIHEAP. If enacted, the cuts would gut early education for the nations neediest children and child care for their families, as well as the ability of millions of low-income families to heat and cool their homes. The White House also tried to freeze Title IX funding in Maine in retaliation to the states policies regarding transgender athletes in schools but was rebuffed in court. Republican senators defended Collins approach, praising her for fostering bipartisan consensus amid White House moves they readily acknowledge have unfairly antagonized Democrats. Its a very delicate balance, Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) said. Right now, shes got everybody playing ball and that is to everybodys advantage to actually get the appropriations process working again. The challenge is that rescissions were tough because its something that Democrats looked at and said, youre taking away things that we care about. Shes trying to regain their confidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Collins critics view the senators opposition to Trumps agenda and her efforts to reverse some of the White Houses proposed cuts as fig leaves designed to further her moderate image ahead of what could be a tough reelection year. They note she voted to advance Trumps unpopular tax cuts law on the Senate floor and that she supported the confirmation of White House budget chief Russ Vought, who just last week suggested he doesnt need Congress or the Constitution to force through massive cuts to federal spending, a view that Collins called baffling. We will make sure Mainers know its not an accident that Susan Collins is failing to stop the toxic GOP agenda; its a carefully orchestrated political ploy to keep her seat while cutting Medicaid and delivering tax giveaways to billionaires, Tommy Garcia, a spokesman for the Maine Democratic Party, said in a statement. At the end of the day, Donald Trump and Washington Republicans know Susan Collins will have their back. No major Democratic candidate has yet emerged to challenge Collins for her seat next year, even though polling is showing her approval levels at record lows. Democrats are hoping that Gov. Janet Mills (D) will still enter the race. The 77-year-old governor hasnt officially ruled out a run, but hasnt exactly expressed interest in one either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet despite an administration bent on thumbing its finger at a compliant Congress at every turn, Collins is still holding out hope that bipartisanship can win the day. The appropriations process is the key way that Congress carries out this significant constitutional responsibility. We must not abdicate our constitutional responsibility for the purse, she said in a speech on Tuesday. Correction: A previous version of this article misstated the heft of the PEPFAR cuts that Collins helped remove from Trumps rescissions bill. The cuts would have amounted to $400 million. Loretta Duchesne doesnt have much faith in the government, and thats part of the reason she cast a ballot last November for Donald Trump. The 35-year-old makeup artist from northern Louisiana said she felt Trump would be transparent and expose corruption. Shes disappointed that the Trump administration isnt releasing all the records in the Jeffrey Epstein case. It feels now more like hes protecting someone or something if he wont reveal it, said Duchesne, an independent who once voted for President Barack Obama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Duchesne likes Trump policies such as his stance on the border and doesnt regret voting for him. But when it comes to Epstein, she said she doesnt accept the official narrative about the wealthy financier who died in prison awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges and also believes the administration is making a mistake and undermining its credibility by holding material back on the years-old criminal case involving alleged underage victims. Most Trump voters interviewed by USA TODAY share Duchesnes desire to see more Epstein records released, illustrating why the case has become so problematic for a second-term president who has a long, documented history of associating with Epstein and recently has publicly questioned why there remains such a deep interest in a man who died six years ago. Epstein is one of the rare issues where Trump appears to be out of step with his base. USA TODAY spoke with seven Trump supporters, and most believe there is more to be revealed about Epstein and want to see the government be more forthcoming with its documentation of his case. Their suspicions persist despite the Department of Justice releasing a memo July 7 that tried to close the book on the Epstein saga. Louisiana resident Loretta Duchesne, 35, voted for President Donald Trump. She wants him to release all of the governments records on Jeffrey Epstein. New York's chief medical examiner ruled Epstein's death a suicide, but some including many Trump loyalists have questioned that finding and whether the government is shielding Epstein's potential clients from public view. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ memo reaffirmed the finding that Epstein died by suicide, said there is no incriminating client list and no evidence he blackmailed prominent people. But instead of dispelling speculation about the case, the memo only inflamed things further, putting the administration in the hot seat. Utah resident Shar Kynaston, 75, said she doesnt think Epstein killed himself and believes "he probably had a preferred, high-paying list of clients. I think that there is a cover-up, but I dont know the extent of it, said Kynaston, a retired federal worker who voted for Trump in all three of his presidential races in 2016, 2020 and 2024. Kynaston wants the Epstein files released, but she still likes Trump. The same goes for Victoria Rivas, 20, a Miami University student and vice president of the Ohio colleges Republican club. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do think we deserve transparency, Rivas said. Trump recently pushed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of Epstein grand jury testimony, which the DOJ is doing. But thats just a portion of the records that havent been released and its not enough for Rivas, a Trump voter who attended the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last year when he officially became the partys nominee, just days after he was shot in an assassination attempt. Thats very picky and choosy, Rivas said of just releasing grand jury testimony, adding that all the Epstein records should be released. Ohio college student Victoria Rivas a the Republican National Convention on July 16, 2024. Rivas, 20, believes President Donald Trump's administration should be transparent about the Jeffrey Epstein case and release all of the government's records. Rivas views the first six months of Trumps second term as a lot of promises made and a lot of promises kept, but on Epstein she said hes falling short. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of the problem for Trump is that those around him, including high-profile figures in his administration, spent years hyping up the potential for bombshell revelations in the Epstein files. "Show us all the Epstein client list now!!! Trumps eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., posted on X in 2023. Why would anyone protect those scum bags? Ask yourselves this question daily and the answer becomes very apparent!! The president was more circumscribed in his Epstein comments. Responding in June 2024 to a Fox News interviewer who asked whether he would declassify the files, Trump said: Yeah, yeah, I would. I guess I would. But he added: I think that less so, because you dont know You dont want to affect peoples lives if theres phony stuff in there, because theres a lot of phony stuff in that whole world. But I think I would. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Trump supporters who spoke to USA TODAY said there was an expectation that more would be revealed. It all has to come out, Rivas said. The backlash Trump is receiving on Epstein has raised questions about whether it will dent his image among his base and could potentially be a drag for Republicans in the 2026 midterm election. Rivas doesn't see the issue as "a top concern for our country," and other Trump supporters said the same. Pennsylvania home builder Mark Bass, 65, said he doesnt think Epstein killed himself, doesnt accept that there isnt a client list and believes the administration should release more information. Still, Bass is ecstatic about Trumps presidency. Pennsylvania resident Mark Bass outside a Trump rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, in 2024. A Trump voter, Bass doesnt think Jeffrey Epstein killed himself and believes the administration should release more information. Still, he is ecstatic about Trumps presidency. I think hes done a fantastic job, hes done more than hes said hes going to do, and I dont think this will make any difference whatsoever, said Bass, a Republican who voted for Trump in each of the last three elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has struggled to shake off the Epstein issue, though, and after initially lashing out at supporters who questioned his administration's handling of the case, the president and his team have been seeking ways to placate critics. DOJ officials announced July 22 that they will seek to interview Ghislaine Maxwell, an Epstein associate found guilty of aiding his abuse. Duchesne, the Louisiana makeup artist, said shes moderately disappointed in Trumps handling of the Epstein case. If the truth is so vanilla then why not just release the records, she wondered. It makes me look at you sideways, she said. Youre deflecting. Why arent you just releasing? Contributing: Aysha Bagchi Eva Policastro protests outside the courthouse as the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of financier Jeffrey Epstein, began in 2021. Some Trump voters question the government's official Epstein narrative, including that he killed himself, and want to see more records. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump's voters want more Jeffrey Epstein files released An editor once asked me President Donald Trump's position on an issue I was writing about. "On which day?" I replied. Since he burst onto the political scene in 2015, Trump has made claims, dropped them, adopted a new argument that contradicts the old one, casually admitted something he long denied, changed the subject and generally just thrown every possible argument at the wall to see what would stick. He spent years arguing that Barack Obama wasnt born in the United States, then simply admitted that wasnt true and falsely blamed Hillary Clinton for starting the rumor. He swore his 2016 campaign had only low-level contacts with Russia; then admitted his son, son-in-law and campaign head met at Trump Tower with a Russian woman claiming to have dirt on Hillary Clinton and argued that anyone would do the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even his defense attorneys adopted this tactic, arguing during his impeachment trial over the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol that he could be tried instead on criminal charges, then claiming when he faced criminal charges that he had presidential immunity. Its all reminiscent of Bart Simpsons infamous defense when confronted with a note from school: I didnt do it. Nobody saw me do it. You cant prove anything. Faced with controversy over the release of any records related to the late pedophile and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Trump has again tried the same defenses, but they don't seem to be working as well. By his own admission, Trump had a long history with Epstein that included socializing with him at a Mar-a-Lago party, attending a Victoria's Secret party together and flying on his private jet. (Trump has denied allegations of sexual misconduct and has denied any impropriety related to Epsteins crimes.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But after spreading a conspiracy theory related to Epstein's death in 2019, suggesting that his death may not have been a suicide in 2020 and promising in 2024 that he would declassify the Epstein files if re-elected, Trump has found himself in a bit of a pickle. The Department of Justice and FBI released a memo on July 7 concluding that there was no evidence of an incriminating client list, but that just fanned the flames. Trump then tried out several different arguments in succession: Theres nothing interesting in the files: I dont understand why the Jeffrey Epstein case would be of interest to anybody. Its pretty boring stuff. Epstein is old news: Are you still talking about Jeffrey Epstein? This guy has been talked about for years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a bad time to talk about it: I cant believe youre asking a question on Epstein at a time like this, where were having some of the greatest success and also tragedy, with what happened in Texas, too. If there was anything incriminating about Trump in the files, the Biden administration would have released it: If there was ANYTHING in there that could have hurt the MAGA Movement, why didnt they use it? The Biden administration might have added false information to the files: You know, the Biden administration ran that for four years. I can imagine what they put into files. Or maybe the Obama administration: These files were made up by Comey, they were made up by Obama, they were made up by the Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its all a hoax: I call it the Epstein hoax. As before, these arguments abound with contradictions. Either there's incriminating information in the Epstein files, or there isn't. Either the files are boring but true, or they are salacious but a hoax. He can't simultaneously argue that the files are not very interesting but also hint that a secret cabal of Democrats planted explosive information in them. (At one point, he literally said of the records "it's sordid, but it's boring.") Trump put birtherism to rest by admitting he was wrong. It worked because as its chief proponent, he could effectively exonerate Obama of his baseless claims. Once again, Trump was one of the superspreaders of the Epstein conspiracy theories. But this time, he can't exonerate himself, and there's no one else who has the credibility to do it either. If we wait a few days, he may even have a new argument. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com To bystanders at the federal courthouse in downtown Los Angeles, it sounded as though U.S. Atty. Bill Essayli would not take no for an answer. A prosecutor had the irate Trump administration appointee on speakerphone outside the grand jury room, and his screaming was audible, according to three law enforcement officials aware of the encounter who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. The grand jury had just refused to indict someone accused of attacking federal law enforcement officers during protests against the recent immigration raids throughout Southern California, two of the federal officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was an exceedingly rare outcome after a type of hearing that routinely leads to federal charges being filed. On the overheard call, according to the three officials, Essayli, 39, told a subordinate to disregard the federal government's "Justice Manual," which directs prosecutors to bring only cases they can win at trial. Essayli barked that prosecutors should press on and secure indictments as directed by U.S. Atty. Gen. Pam Bondi, according to the three officials. Read more: Deaf, mute and terrified: ICE arrests DACA recipient and ships him to Texas Court records show the reason for Essayli's frustration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although his office filed felony cases against at least 38 people for alleged misconduct that either took place during last month's protests or near the sites of immigration raids, many have been dismissed or reduced to misdemeanor charges. In total, he has secured only seven indictments, which usually need to be obtained no later than 21 days after the filing of a criminal complaint. Three other cases have been resolved via plea deal, records show. The three officials who spoke to The Times on condition of anonymity said prosecutors have struggled to get several protest-related cases past grand juries, which need only to find probable cause that a crime has been committed in order to move forward. That is a much lower bar than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard required for a criminal conviction. Five cases have been dismissed without prejudice meaning they could be refiled and records show nine have been filed as misdemeanors, which do not require a grand jury indictment to proceed. In some cases, prosecutors reduced charges against defendants to misdemeanors after repeatedly falling short at the grand jury stage, according to the three officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Essayli declined to be interviewed for this article. A statement provided by his office on Tuesday accused The Times of spreading "factual inaccuracies and anonymous gossip," but offered no specifics or further comment in response to questions. "The U.S. Attorneys Office will continue working unapologetically to charge all those who assault our agents or impede our federal investigations," the statement said. Read more: Trump immigration raids move north to Sacramento: No such thing as a sanctuary state Legal experts said Essayli's low number of indictments raised concerns about the strength of the cases he is filing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carley Palmer, a former federal prosecutor in L.A. who is now a partner at Halpern May Ybarra Gelberg, said the grand jury's repeated rejection of cases was "a strong indication that the priorities of the prosecutors office are out of sync with the priorities of the general community." Essayli has won indictments in some serious cases, including two where defendants are accused of throwing or planning to throw Molotov cocktails at L.A. law enforcement officers, and a case where defendants allegedly fired a paintball gun at federal police. High-ranking Justice Department officials have repeatedly praised his work. My friend, U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, is a champion for law and order who has done superlative work to prosecute rioters for attacking and obstructing law enforcement in Los Angeles," Bondi said in a statement to The Times. Atty. Gen. Pam Bondi speaks during a news conference at the Justice Department on June 6 in Washington. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson / Associated Press) But legal experts and some of Essayli's prosecutors say he's stretching legal limits to serve as President Trump's attack dog in L.A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just generally a culture of 'if Bill asks you to jump, you ask how high,'" said one prosecutor who feared retaliation. "Any case he wants to charge, find a way to make it a yes. Questions about Essayli's effectiveness come at a crucial time for the former California Assembly member. Bondi appointed him in early April, giving him 120 days to serve as interim U.S. attorney until receiving Senate approval. If he is not confirmed by then, a panel of federal judges will have the opportunity to appoint him or someone else to the position. Democratic Sens. Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla of California raised concerns about Essaylis leadership of the office in interviews with The Times, and a direct approval from the bench is no sure thing. This month, a federal judicial panel blocked Trump's choice for U.S. attorney in upstate New York after the time limit for Senate confirmation had expired. On Tuesday, another judicial panel declined to appoint New Jersey's interim federal prosecutor, Alina Habba, one of Trump's former personal lawyers. Bondi, however, decried the judges for going "rogue," fired their choice for U.S. attorney and reappointed Habba. Legal experts say the move is unprecedented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meghan Blanco, a former federal prosecutor in L.A. who serves as defense counsel to one of the protesters who is facing charges, said the cases are faltering in part because of unreliable information provided by immigration agents claiming to be victims. "Frankly, theyre not deserving of prosecution," she said. "What is being alleged isnt a federal crime, or it simply did not happen. Blanco represents Jose Mojica, who was accused of pushing a federal officer in Paramount on June 7. According to an investigation summary of the incident reviewed by The Times, a U.S. Border Patrol officer claimed a man was screaming in his face that he was going to "shoot him," then punched him. The officer said he and other agents started chasing the man, but were "stopped by two other males," later identified as Mojica and Bryan Ramos-Brito. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blanco said she obtained social media videos showing no such chase took place and presented them at Mojica's first court appearance. The charges were soon dropped. "The agent lied and said he was in hot pursuit of a person who punched him," Blanco said. The entirety of the affidavit is false." Felony charges against Ramos-Brito and two related defendants, Ashley and Joceline Rodriguez, were also dismissed, though prosecutors refiled misdemeanor cases against them. Christian Cerna-Camacho, the man who allegedly punched an agent, has been indicted. He has pleaded not guilty, with trial set for next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Border Patrol agent charged with drunkenly attacking Long Beach cop while off duty Similar issues arose in the case of Andrea Velez, who was charged on June 25 with assaulting a federal officer. The criminal complaint alleged Velez, who is 4 feet 11 inches, stood in the path of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer with her arms extended, striking his head and chest when they collided. Diane Bass, Velez's attorney, said the incident occurred when masked, unidentified men in plainclothes pulled up to question a downtown L.A. street vendor. Velez had just been dropped off for work when some of the masked men ran at her and one shoved her to the ground, Bass said. Velez, fearing she was being abducted, held up her work bag to shield herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bass requested body-worn camera video and witness statements cited in the complaint. Soon after, she said, the prosecutor dismissed the case. One of the three officials, who was not authorized to speak publicly, said concerns are growing among prosecutors about the accuracy of statements by federal immigration agents that serve as the basis for criminal charges. "There are a lot of hotheaded [Customs and Border Protection] officers who are kind of arresting first and asking questions later. Were finding theres not probable cause to support it," said the prosecutor, who requested anonymity over concerns of repercussions. A demonstrator waves a Mexican flag in front of a dumpster fire after another night of unrest during a protest against immigration raids on June 8, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) One case under close scrutiny is that of Adrian Martinez, a 20-year-old charged in a criminal complaint last month with conspiracy to impede a federal officer. Martinez said he was on a break from his job at Walmart when he spotted immigration agents chasing down a custodial worker, and told them to leave the man alone. Video shows Martinez being thrown to the ground and shoved into a truck, which he said took him to a parking structure. Once there, Martinez said, he was told he'd been arrested for assaulting a federal officer by striking an agent in the face and breaking his glasses. Martinez, who weighs around 150 pounds, said the agents arresting him pointed to the colleague he was being accused of attacking, who looked "like a grizzly bear." "I don't even remember you," Martinez recalled saying. "It just seemed like they were trying to get me to say like, 'yes, you assaulted him,' but I knew I didn't." The next day, Essayli posted a photo on X of Martinez, still in his blue Walmart vest. Martinez, he wrote, had been arrested "for an allegation of punching a border patrol agent in the face." The criminal complaint makes no reference to a punch and video taken at the scene does not clearly show Martinez striking anyone. Federal prosecutors instead charged Martinez with conspiracy to impede a federal officer, alleging he blocked federal law enforcement vehicles with his car and then later a trash can. Ciaran McEvoy, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office, previously told The Times that complaints do not always include "the full scope of a defendant's conduct, or the evidence that will be presented at trial." A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said the agency could not comment on cases under active litigation. Our officers are facing a surge in assaults and attacks against them as they put their lives on the line to enforce our nation's laws," the Homeland Security statement said. Charges against nonviolent defendants have repeatedly raised alarm bells among current and former federal prosecutors. In early June, union leader David Huerta was charged with conspiracy to impede a federal officer for allegedly interfering with immigration enforcement actions in the downtown L.A. garment district. Legal experts said Huerta's conduct did not appear criminal. Where do you draw the line between an organized protest and a conspiracy to impede?" Laurie Levenson, a former federal prosecutor and professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, asked last month. "Itll actually be interesting to see if a grand jury indicts these cases. Huerta has denied all wrongdoing and his attorney did not respond to a request for comment. A deadline of Aug. 5 looms for prosecutors to secure an indictment. Court filings show some prosecutors appear to be refusing to sign their names to contentious cases. An indictment returned against Alejandro Orellana who is accused of conspiracy and aiding in civil disorder for passing out gas masks at a protest scene in early June was signed only by Essayli and his second-in-command, Jennifer Waier, records show. Such cases are typically handled by rank-and-file assistant U.S. attorneys. In early May, when Essayli pushed to offer a lenient plea deal to L.A. County Sheriff's Deputy Trevor Kirk months after a jury convicted him of assaulting a woman during a 2023 arrest, several prosecutors refused to sign the document asking for the deal, and some later resigned. Times staff writer Kevin Rector contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. In the year 2000, autism was considered a very rare condition, affecting just 1 in 150 British children. Now its seen as common. According to a 2021 estimate from Newcastle University, as many as one in 57 British children are on the autistic spectrum. Those figures dont even touch on the number of people who have been diagnosed with autism in adulthood, or have come to the conclusion that they are autistic without having an official diagnosis. In March 2024, there were 89,531 open referrals for autism diagnoses for adults on the NHS, demonstrating just how dramatically perceptions of this condition have changed. Are people actually more likely to be autistic today than they were 25 years ago, or are they simply just more likely to be diagnosed as such? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its complicated, says Professor Gina Rippon, a neuroscientist at Aston University in Birmingham and a world-leading expert on autism. In the US, but also in Britain, theres a lot of self-diagnosing going on, she believes, which skews the picture: You dont need to register [in official statistics] to proclaim that you have autism on social media. But when you look at how autism has been diagnosed in previous decades, it should be no surprise that some people have claimed the label for themselves, she says. Lots of autistic people have gone undiagnosed for years, many of them women and girls, because of fixed views of what autism is, says Rippon. In recent years the idea of what autism is has become much more inclusive, but at the same time, it has also become much harder to pin down. How has our understanding of autism changed? Today, autism is defined as a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive patterns of behaviour, according to the ICD-10, the diagnostic manual used in Britain and many countries around the world to assess people for autism and ADHD, as well as most health problems. But in the past, doctors like many people outside the profession had a fixed expectation of what constituted autism in a patient. It was typically thought of as a disability that severely impeded communication, which would mean that people with it needed to attend special needs schools and could never live independently. Cases of high-functioning autism believed to be rare. These people would often be highly intelligent, but they would struggle to make eye contact, be uninterested in socialising and have few friends, and have little empathy for others and inevitably, theyd be male. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Britain in 2000, four men were diagnosed as autistic for every one woman. When Rippon first began her work, in the 1970s, when it came to autism, people werent looking at women, she says. They couldnt find any to study who had been diagnosed, or at least there were too few to make up a reasonable sample for research. Modern science suggests that there may be nearly as many autistic women as men, however. Rippon says previously girls might have been diagnosed with eating disorders or anxiety. There is some recent research to demonstrate that women are making up the bulk of adulthood diagnoses, she adds. These days, some experts like Rippon believe that adult women display a type of autism that is less easy to spot under the current diagnostic criteria. Autistic women are often desperate to be social and really want to belong, but they dont have the same social instincts as other people and struggle to understand social rules, she explains. Women with autism may also be more likely to mask their symptoms than men, which can take a toll emotionally. Its not that these are two different conditions, and its also not a prescriptive rule, Rippon notes. Some autistic men, many of whom might be highly intelligent and successful, display these behaviours too, and may also not have been diagnosed as children. The decision to fold Aspergers into Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Aspergers syndrome used to be a diagnosis of its own, within the umbrella of autism, but the two were merged in 2013 to create a single diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Though Aspergers is often thought of as mild or high-functioning autism, it was formally defined as autism without any delay in language abilities, says Geoffrey Bird, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at the University of Oxford. In practice, no one was using Aspergers correctly as a diagnosis, so it got thrown out, he says. On top of that, autism has only been conceptualised as a spectrum since the 1990s. The idea that autistic people can have a range of symptoms is also relatively new. A statistic thats always quoted is that autism diagnoses have risen by 787 per cent since 1998, says Rippon. The decision to fold Aspergers into ASD was slightly political, she believes, and it also coincided with widespread internet use and the much greater awareness of autism that came with it. People in general, but especially teachers, have become much more aware of autism without intellectual disabilities, so children might be more likely to be referred for autism assessments and adults might be more likely to seek them out, Bird says. Diagnosing autism is complex Unlike Rippon, Bird doesnt believe that autistic women tend to have a specific type of autism that previously weve been bad at spotting, though he agrees with Rippon that it might be the case that clinicians were previously biased against diagnosing women, which I think has changed. More than anything else, he says, autism has become much less stigmatised, which is a positive for people with the condition, but can occasionally prove unhelpful for clinicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On one hand, people who ought to have been diagnosed in the past are now seeking diagnosis and receiving support, he says. On the other, Ive heard from at least two clinicians that some patients who might better suit a different diagnosis, like borderline personality disorder, refuse to engage with clinicians when they are labelled in this way, but will engage once theyre diagnosed with autism, as they feel that its a less stigmatised label, Bird says. Ive also worked with HR professionals who have found that people suddenly produce autism diagnoses after they are accused of misconduct, he adds. There are a million things that could make you behave in a way that looks like youre autistic, and its very easy to fake. Certainly there are people who are being diagnosed with autism who shouldnt be, as well as many who should. Every person with autism is different It isnt that rogue doctors are handing out labels to help people get away with bad behaviour. Rather, even world-leading experts disagree on what autism actually is and can find it hard to formally diagnose. The famous mind in the eyes test, developed by the Cambridge University Autism Research Centre, which asks people to guess another persons feelings from a picture of their eyes alone something that autistic people were assumed to find hard, or even impossible has been used for years to explain what autism is and who has it. It is based on the theory that autistic people struggle to read others minds. But struggling to read others emotions, to hold eye contact and empathise with other people, is actually a separate condition in itself, called alexythymia, Bird says. Just half of autistic people display alexythymia, he believes, and non-autistic people can have it too. Professor Jen Cook, from the University of Birmingham, believes that autism could also have a lot to do with our bodies as well as our brains and how we empathise with others. Theres a mathematical principle called the minimum jerk equation, which says that humans move in the most fluid way possible, and we used to believe that this applied to everyone. Now there is evidence that autistic people tend not to move in this minimally jerky way, Cook says. In adults with autism, a lot of clinicians comment that their movements look similar to how people move when they have Parkinsons disease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In future, she believes, assessments of how autistic adults move could be used as a diagnostic tool. This feature of the condition could even underlie some symptoms, as autistic people often struggle to imitate how other people move, or their facial expressions, which could be to do with the same mechanisms that cause them to move differently, Cook explains. But thats not to say that all autistic people move in this way just that its common, she adds. This is an example of the huge challenge that comes with diagnosing autism in children and adults alike: modern research increasingly points to the fact that its a condition with no single symptom common to everyone who has it. There is also no blood test or brain scan that can be used to reach an objective conclusion. There are many ways that you can come to an autism diagnosis, says Cook. This process can currently include assessments of everything from a persons ability to empathise, to the intensity of their personal interests, to how much rapport a clinician feels with them. Where one clinician might think that someone is clearly autistic, another would let them go without a diagnosis. Should autism be diagnosed in adults? Now that we understand the true scope of what autism can be, is it worth diagnosing the condition in adulthood at all? Ive been overwhelmed by the number of people who have told me that finally having a diagnosis has been life-changing in a positive way, says Rippon. Its not that people are waking up and wanting to adopt a label that they think is fashionable. Often, its a way to make sense of life and for people who are diagnosed in their thirties, forties or fifties, often those are lives that have been very difficult without that self-knowledge. As for why there seem to be more autistic adults these days than there were in previous decades, I havent seen any evidence to suggest that autism itself is becoming more common, says Bird. I dont buy claims that its all down to vaccines and chemicals in our water and he also does not find the arguments that screen time or food additives cause autism to be convincing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The condition has a large genetic component, with almost 800 genes believed to be involved in determining whether someone is autistic. In a family where one child has been diagnosed with autism, the chance that one of their siblings will also be autistic is 20 per cent, much higher than the best estimate for the rate of autism in the general adult population, which is believed to be between 1 and 3 per cent globally. Perhaps the increase in awareness of autism in recent years, and the improved treatment of autistic people that has come with it, simply means that more autistic people are finding happy relationships and having children as a result, Bird says. Surely that is no bad thing. 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. HONOLULU (KHON2) Hawaiis Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will soon be welcoming a new TSA initiative that is aiming to change how families move through airport security. The Families on the Fly campaign was announced Friday, July 18, by the United States Department of Homeland Security. It brings dedicated screening lanes to select airports for families with children. Rochelle Ashe, a Hawaii resident who recently traveled with her young daughter, said the program could make a big difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These banned items by TSA are surprising travelers It would just be nice for us to all go through at the same time, Ashe said. Usually its me or Eugene pairing off with whos going to take [our daughter] through the other version of, like, security. Heres what you need to know about the new family line. TSA bans these childrens toys from carryon bags DHS and TSA are committed to making the airport security experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for traveling families, said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy TSA Administrator Adam Stahl. The Families on the Fly campaign, being rolled out at select airports, aims to mitigate the unique challenges families face when traveling and minimize stress while maintaining the highest level of security. Streamlining the process for families Thinking of renting a car while visiting Hawaii? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Homeland Securitys Families on the Fly said the benefits for families include: Dedicated family lanes at select airports nationwide. Discounted TSA PreCheck fees for families coming soon. Dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for service members and their families. The DHS campaign includes dedicated family lanes and plans for discounted TSA PreCheck fees. It also extends existing PreCheck benefits to military families. The first airports to feature the new lanes are Orlando International (MCO) and Charlotte-Douglas International (CLT). Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu is one of the next airports slated to join the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ashe said even small upgrades to the screening process could make a major difference. When traveling with children, you have to worry about packing car seats, strollers, diaper bags, in addition to our luggage, Ashe said. I cant imagine that the people behind me were too happy with me having to put all this through security. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Relief for families, benefits for solo travelers Ashe also pointed out how separating family travelers from others could help reduce wait times for everyone. The people who dont have families, maybe theyre traveling by themselves, itll be easier for them to get through their line, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her sister, who has a three-month-old, a two-year-old and a four-year-old, recently traveled with her family. That is quite a daunting task, Ashe said. Getting them through with the strollers and all the paraphernalia that comes with having children under five. While Ashe said she wants to see how efficient the new system is, she also noted that TSA PreCheck is worth the fee, especially since they will be offering discounts for families. The Families on the Fly campaign, being rolled out at select airports, aims to mitigate the unique challenges families face when traveling and minimize stress while maintaining the highest level of security, added Stahl. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ashe hopes the new lanes bring real change but is watching closely. I would like to see how the family line works just, like, on its own, she said. And then a PreCheck would enhance that. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. At a panel event in Washington last week, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi L. Noem said her agency is considering a change to airport security that would do away with a common passenger annoyance. If the Transportation Security Administration allowed travelers to carry on liquids of more than 3.4 ounces, fliers no longer would have to empty their water bottles or trash full-size containers of shampoo to clear a checkpoint. The liquids, Im questioning, Noem said during an interview at the conference hosted by politics website the Hill. So that may be the next big announcement, is what size your liquids need to be. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Noem was speaking just days after she announced that TSA was ending its shoes-off policy. But scanning liquids requires different technology than does inspecting travelers shoes. Some aviation security experts caution that TSAs infrastructure might not be ready for such a move. Noem has said that the Trump administration wants to usher in a new era of improved travel. From a security perspective, change does not appear imminent. I dont think were at that point yet, said Jeff Price, a professor of aviation management at Metropolitan State University of Denver. I was okay with the shoe removal policy. That one seemed to make a lot of sense from a technological perspective, Price said. But these changes seem to be happening so rapidly. I think they need to pump the brakes just a little bit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To screen liquids, TSA requires some of the most sophisticated technology available in the security industry. The agency has been installing computed tomography (CT) scanners at a steady rate, but not fast enough to handle an abrupt change in policy. Neither DHS nor TSA answered questions about when the changes could occur, what a revision of the 19-year-old rule would entail and whether the rollout would be nationwide or only at airports with the most advanced technology. Secretary Noem and TSA are constantly looking for ways to enhance security and improve the travel experience for the public, read a statement that Homeland Security sent to The Washington Post. Any announcements on policy changes will be made through official channels. - - - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaps in technology TSA has been loosening security measures drafted in the early 2000s, thanks to leaps in technology and intelligence methods. At hundreds of airports, passengers in standard lanes no longer have to remove electronics and liquids from their carry-on bags. Boarding passes can stay in pockets and purses. Shoes remain on. For a change of this magnitude, analysts say one of two events must take place. The country must see large-scale advancements in scanning technology or a decline in threats against air travel safety. Whether an airport is ready for your travel mug of coffee or jug of sunscreen depends on the type of scanning equipment it operates. The superstar of scanners, at least for now, is the computed tomography machine, or CT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2018, TSA has been investing billions of dollars in CT scanners, one of the most advanced pieces of equipment to grace security checkpoints. (The medical field uses the same technology to peek inside patients bodies.) Price said CT scanners, which generate three-dimensional images that TSA officers can inspect from different angles, are a welcome replacement. Older X-ray machines, he said, cannot reliably discern between harmless and harmful liquids. Though the CT scanner is superior to earlier models, hundreds of airports are still waiting for the technology. As of June 30, TSA said it has installed more than 1,016 units in 278 airports, a sliver of the more than 5,000 public airports in the country, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Price said deployment to a majority of airports could stretch until 2042, but he doesnt anticipate it will take that long. Theres still a gap, Price said, and it could be another 10 years before that gap is filled. Aviation security analysts and advisers say they trust the technology, but they admit that no machine is infallible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is it advanced enough at this point in time? said Mike Evans, director of the Risk Intelligence Center at security firm Securitas. Thats always going to be the case with any kind of technology. Theres always that hedge-your-bet approach to it. The United States has avoided aviation-based terrorist attacks on the scale of Sept. 11, 2001, Price said, but sometimes at the expense of convenience. The golden age of travel was wonderful for passenger convenience, but there was also a lot more safety incidents and accidents and a lot more security incidents, hijackings and bombings, he said. Travel now might not be nearly as fun, but were a lot safer. Evans said the relative calm over the years is proof that TSAs measures are working. The protocols have lowered the risk to an acceptable level, he said, and authorities can take steps to refine the screening process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, before DHS ditches one of the bastions from the aughts, all of the essential elements - the technology, the trained employees - must be in place. According to security analysts, they arent. - - - Extra task for TSA officers Since the start of the new administration, the White House and Congress have been picking away at TSA, reducing its workforce and eliminating its negotiating power. In February, the DHS fired more than 200 TSA employees. The following month, the agency terminated collective bargaining for TSA security officers, saying in a news release that the union-backed practice was hindering its primary mission to safeguard our transportation systems and keep Americans safe. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) has repeatedly called for the dissolution of the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Caleb Harmon-Marshall, a former TSA employee who broke the news about DHS ending the shoes rule, said the department probably will wait until more airports are equipped with CT scanners to allow passengers to travel with regular-size liquids. He gives it two years. He also said TSA has bottle scanners, which its officers can use as supplemental security. The implementation may cause fatigue with the officers, said Harmon-Marshall, who covers security issues in his Gate Access newsletter. The tech is there, but you still need a live human to check these bags containing these larger size liquids. The United Kingdom has been trying to relax its liquid restrictions for years. In 2019, Prime Minister Boris Johnson vowed the return of standard-size liquids by 2022. The deadline was pushed back to 2024 because not all of the airports were prepared. In June 2024, some airports started allowing up to two liters of liquids. Then the Department for Transport reversed its decision. This month, two airports - Birmingham and Edinburgh, neither the biggest nor the busiest hubs in the U.K. - introduced the more lenient measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On its website, Edinburgh Airport explained the revised policy. Passengers can carry up to two liters in multiple containers and leave them in their carry-on bags during the screening process. However, not all airports will have the same equipment or capability. This includes London Heathrow, which handled a record 83.9 million passengers last year, according to the Heathrow Media Centre. It depends on whats installed in what lane and who is on shift that day, Evans said of Europes busiest airport. Imagine that scaled across 50 states in the U.S. - - - Expect disruptions Rich Davis, a senior adviser with security assessment firm International SOS and a former chief security officer with United Airlines, trusts the government is acting scrupulously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I really dont believe the secretary would bring it up unless there was a very good confidence level, Davis said. Even so, he said travelers should not expect a uniform rollout because of the technology disparities among U.S. airports. He said people should be prepared for a disjointed experience, depending on their point of departure. Nothing can happen uniformly overnight for the size of our country, Davis said. Something thats available in Atlanta might not be available in Reno, Nevada, for instance, and that will cause a little bit of a disruption. Davis said officer training, including educating passengers, can help iron out the bumps. It might not be initially smooth, however, with security-lane slowdowns or slight confusions. One way to keep the line moving is to continue traveling with tiny toiletries. Even if they change the rules, I dont know if Ill change my habits, Davis said. Everything has worked well for 19 years. Related Content Hulk Hogan was a well-known Trump supporter. Their ties go back 40 years. Mendelson reaches deal with Commanders on RFK site amid growing pressure Amy Sherald cancels major Smithsonian show over censorship The Trump administrations highly advertised investigation into former President Barack Obama has come up remarkably short. Speaking at a White House press briefing Wednesday, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard repeatedly accused the former president of initiating a coup against Donald Trumps political aspirationsthough she was pretty thin on evidence. What do you now have that refutes previous investigations into the matter, inquired a reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will encourage you, in my role as director of national intelligencemy job, again, I said when I came into this role, was to make sure we are telling the truth to the American people, and that we are ensuring the intelligence community is not being politicized, Gabbard began, before handing off the burden of responsibility for proving her theory. So Im not asking you to take my word for it, she continued. Im asking you in the media to conduct honest journalism, and the American people, to see for yourself in the documents that weve releasednow, close to 200 pagesthat point in multiple references, multiple examples, to include comments that have been made by senior intelligence professionals, who are some still working within these agencies today, that confirm the conclusions that we have drawn: that President Obama directed an intelligence community assessment to be created to further this contrived false narrative that ultimately led to a yearslong coup to undermine Trumps presidency. The reporter then pressed if Gabbard believed that previous investigations, which included probes by special counsel Robert Mueller as well as a bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee led by nowSecretary of State Marco Rubio, had either missed that or covered it up. Look at the evidence, and you will know the truth, Gabbard responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Gabbard declassified a September 2020 House Intelligence Committee report, leveraging the document as evidence that Obama had pushed for an Intelligence Community Assessment to be released in January 2017 before Trump was to be inaugurated. Days before releasing the report, Gabbard wrote on X that Americans would finally learn the truth of how Obama had, according to her, invented the Trump-Russia hoax. Trump picked up the theory and ran with it, using the new conspiracy as cover from his own explosive scandals. Deflecting a question about his widely reported ties to pedophilic sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein on Tuesday, Trump claimed that the only witch hunt Americas press should be focused on is the one in which he claimed his administration caught Obama absolutely cold trying to rig the 2020 presidential election. Obama spokesman Patrick Rodenbush excoriated the administration in turn, referring to the allegations as a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes, Rodenbush said Tuesday in a statement, underscoring that any treason charges would also implicate Rubiothe second-highest-ranking official in Trumps Cabinet. When asked to clarify how Obama could be charged with treason when he has presidential immunity, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that she trusted the Justice Department to sort it out. U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has promised that more documents will be released on Wednesday to substantiate her allegation that former President Barack Obama manufactured evidence to suggest Russia helped Donald Trump win the 2016 presidential election. Gabbard announced on Friday that she was referring Obama administration officials including ex-FBI director James Comey, ex-CIA director John Brennan, and her own predecessor James Clapper to the Justice Department over their roles in the alleged plot to undermine Trumps victory over Hillary Clinton. She subsequently accused the Democrat of orchestrating a yearslong coup against Trump during an interview with Maria Bartiromo on Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Central to her claim is a National Security Council (NSC) meeting held on December 9, 2016, at which, she alleges, the 44th president ordered a new report be compiled detailing the tools Moscow used and actions it took to influence the 2016 election in the Republicans favor, overruling an earlier, less certain assessment. Tulsi Gabbard is interviewed by Rob Schmitt on Newsmax on Tuesday July 22 2025 (Newsmax) The report in question was duly published in January 2017. A spokesperson for Obama said on Tuesday: Out of respect for the office of the presidency, our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response. But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction. Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee led by then-chairman [and now U.S. Secretary of State] Marco Rubio. Speaking to Newsmax last night, Gabbard was confronted with Obamas rebuttal by host Rob Schmitt and responded: We will be releasing further documents tomorrow that will refute that statement. We will be pulling a whole host of statements that were made by the Obama administration, by Hillary Clinton, by senior Democrat officials, by their friends in the media that state, over and over again, after this January 2017 manufactured intelligence document was created, that repeat the narrative. Asked what quotes she had gathered, she answered: John Brennan says there is strong consensus among us to support the CIA claim Russian hackers aided Donald Trumps election; Hillary Clinton said, I would be president if not for the Russian hackers supporting Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a vast body of evidence and intelligence that debunks and refutes this statement youve just read and others coming from some of the Democrat leaders in Congress today. Gabbard also claimed that new whistleblowers had come forward since her initial announcement and added: The legal path forward will be up to the Department of Justice to determine. However, I will say how essential it is as an American that we hold people accountable, no matter how powerful they are, no matter what position they have held. It is essential that for the future of our nation and our democratic republic, that accountability must occur. In a second interview with Lara Trump, the presidents daughter-in-law, again on Fox, Gabbard once more refuted Obamas denial and said it was he, not her, that was engaged in the art of deflection. Tulsi Gabbard speaks to Lara Trump on Fox News on Tuesday July 22 2025 (Fox News) She insisted that, in late 2016, the intelligence community had one assessment, that Russia did not have the intent or capability to try to impact the outcome of the U.S. election but that verdict abruptly changed after the NSC meeting at which Clapper was ordered to issue a new version detailing how, not if Moscow had meddled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard also accused Obamas intelligence officials of using already discredited information like the Steele dossier to stand up their argument. Trump himself has latched onto her claims, posting about them multiple times over the weekend on social media, on one occasion circulating an AI TikTok meme imagining Obama being arrested in the Oval Office and sent to jail. However, his critics have, like Obama, argued that the whole story is just an attempt to distract from the ongoing furore over his administrations failure to release its files on Jeffrey Epstein. On Tuesdays instalment of MSNBCs Morning Joe, host Joe Scarborough presented a 14-point laundry list of subjects raised in the last two weeks to distract from the Epstein case, with the Obama conspiracy appearing alongside such issues as expat comedian Rosie ODonnells citizenship status and the potential renaming of the Washington Commanders and Cleveland Guardians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Connecticut Democratic Rep. Jim Himes told the same network yesterday: When people like Tulsi Gabbard and Donald Trump accuse an ex-president of a capital crime that is punishable by death, who is going to die? Who is going to die because theyve decided that they need a distraction away from the Epstein calamity. Anti-Trump commentator Ron Filipkowski said on X that the Gabbard nonsense was cooked up purely as a distraction from Epstein, an opinion shared by ex-Republican congressman Denver Riggleman. Democratic National Committee delegate Kaivan Shroff went further, lashing out at the intelligence chief on Newsmax by saying that Gabbard has built her career as a stooge for dictators and that is why Donald Trump picked her [The president] is embroiled in so many scandals dividing his base that he wants to distract with this. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard went full Russian asset Wednesday during a wild White House press briefing. Standing behind a White House podium, Gabbard started quoting old Russian intelligence and claimed that Moscows foreign intelligence agency SVR was in possession of high-level DNC emails that detailed evidence of Hillarys psycho-emotional problems, uncontrolled fits of anger, aggression, and cheerfulness. And that then-Secretary Clinton was allegedly on a daily regimen of heavy tranquilizers. That strange little detail came from the freshly declassified 2020 report by the House Intelligence Committee that Gabbard insists holds evidence that former President Barack Obama committed a so-called coup against Donald Trump by alleging Russian interference in the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the report, ahead of Trumps ascendance to the White House, Obama asked for an Intelligence Community Assessment to review their work to date on Russias influence campaign. Gabbard claims that issues with the production of that January 2017 report are evidence that the Obama administration plotted to spread a false narrative that Russian President Vladimir Putin aspired to see Trump in the White Housea preference that the foreign autocrat readily admitted. When asked about it Wednesday, Gabbard could not account for why Trump had not declassified these supposedly damning materials during his first term. She was also unable to provide any explanation for why Trumps secretary of state, former Florida Senator Marco Rubio, had made opposite findings when he spearheaded a 2020 Senate Intelligence Committee report. That report found that Putin had directed an aggressive, multifaceted effort to influence, or attempt to influence, the outcome of the 2016 presidential election and had done so with the intent of weakening Clintons campaign and seeing Trump elected. Its also probably worth remembering that Trumps first-term White House was reportedly awash in speed, handing out powerful sedatives and stimulants like candy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It should come as no surprise that Gabbard is already parroting Russian intelligence because its exactly the kind of thing that concerned critics of her nominationand enthused Moscow. Gabbard has previously defended Russias incursion into Ukraine, claiming that the U.S. had provoked Russian aggression and that Ukraine housed U.S.-funded biolabs that were developing secret bioweaponsa piece of foreign state propaganda that earned her the reputation as a Russian asset. Former Virginia Representative Abigail Spanberger sounded the alarm about Gabbard on MSNBC in November, noting that, if confirmed, Gabbard would be responsible for putting together the presidents daily briefings and would likely include Russian propaganda. In the governments latest bid to distract from Donald Trumps emerging ties to alleged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard unveiled supposedly new evidence Wednesday that members of the Obama administration had pushed the lie that Russian President Vladimir Putin preferred Trump over Hillary Clinton. Gabbard declassified a September 2020 House Intelligence Committee report that found former President Barack Obama had pushed for an Intelligence Community Assessment to be released in January 2017, ahead of Trumps presidency. The assessment produced by the CIA, FBI, and NSA determined that Putin had aspired to see Trump enter the White House, while the House Intelligence Committee had not previously been made aware of Putins preference for Trump, according to the report. The House report found that the Intelligence Committee assessment was prepared by only five CIA analysts and was not properly coordinated within CIA or the IC, ensuring it would be published without significant challenges to its conclusions. Some CIA officers expressed concerns that the expedited timeline meant the assessment did not meet publication standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard seems to think this is an incredibly damning revelation and that the report alleges Obama ordered a so-called rewrite of the intelligence assessments. Her office has the conspiracy-style infographics to prove iteven the White House shared a cringey meme depicting a Russia Deep State Starter Pack. Gabbard claimed on X that Obama had ordered the Intelligence Committee to produce an assessment that they knew was false, promoting a contrived narrative, with the intent of undermining the legitimacy and power of a duly elected President of the United States, Donald Trump. But its not clear that Obama ordered any changes to the committees assessment at all, instead simply ordering it to review its work to date. The committee also found that former CIA Director John Brennan had ordered the publication of 15 supposedly implausible reports referring to Putins preference for Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe instead of all of the speculation over Putins hopes and dreams, someone should just ask the foreign dictator whether he wanted Trump to win the 2016 presidential election? Oh wait, someone did. Yes, I did. Yes, I did. Because he talked about bringing the U.S.-Russia relationship back to normal, Putin said during a 2018 press conference with Trump. Maybe that could help settle things? Last week, Gabbard released a declassified report alleging that members of the Obama administration had manufactured and politicized intelligence to create the narrative that Russia had interfered in the 2016 election. Its also worth noting that shortly after the 2016 election, the Obama administration insisted that hackers had not affected the vote tallies. This is the third week of fallout from the Justice Departments memo announcing that Epstein kept no incriminating client list, even though Trumps attorney general claimed one had been sitting on her desk, sparking widespread backlash among Trumps conspiracy-addled following. Now Trump said he hopes to shift the attention away from his administration by setting the mob on a new political witch hunt. WASHINGTON Sovereign entities are permitted to nominate individuals or organizations for the Nobel Peace Prize, according to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. In keeping with that criterion, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, a federally recognized tribal nation, is exercising its sovereignty and intends to nominate U.S. President Donald J. Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. By exercising its sovereign status, the tribe qualifies under the Norwegian Nobel Committees criteria. It cites President Trumps role in advancing global peace amid international hostilities and economic uncertaintyexemplifying the very ideals the Nobel Peace Prize seeks to honor: the pursuit of peace, the prevention of war, and the advancement of international harmony. On July 7, 2025, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe issued a press release announcing its intention to nominate President Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. The release cited Trumps role in advancing global peace among international hostilities and economic uncertaintyexemplifying the ideals that the Nobel Peace Prize seeks to recognize: the pursuit of peace, the prevention of war, and the advancement of international harmony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the July 7 press release, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Chairman Marshall Pierite stated: President Donald Trump will be remembered as one of the most influential world leaders in history, recognized for his unwavering commitment to global leadership and peace, said Marshall Pierite, Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana. By brokering the Abraham Accords, facilitating economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, negotiating the peace treaty between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, and mediating ceasefires between India and Pakistan and between Israel and Iran, no world leader has dedicated more time and effort to promoting global peace than President Donald Trump. The nomination letter was also referenced during a government-to-government roundtable at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C., on Monday, where Roger Stone addressed attendees. In light of the President's ending hostilities between India and Pakistan in the ceasefire, in light of his efforts to reach a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, and in light of his ending of the long, bloody war between Congo and Rwanda, the Biloxi-Tunica Tribe has sent a letter to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee nominating President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, Stone said. On Tuesday, at 2:53 p.m., Trump posted the tribe's intention to nominate him on his Truth Social. Since 2018, Trump has received 10 nominations for the Nobel Peace Prizefive of which were submitted in 2025 alone. As part of its submission, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana intends to highlight the presidents role in easing global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, through initiatives such as the Abraham Accords and the Israel-Iran ceasefire. The presidents efforts to promote peace and stability around the world are viewed as contributing to strength, security, and peace of mind for Americans at home and citizens across the globe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net." Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net By Ezgi Erkoyun ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Turkey reached deals with NATO allies Britain and Germany on Wednesday that pave the way to acquiring dozens of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, which Ankara has sought to bolster defences in an increasingly volatile region. Britain signed a preliminary deal allowing Ankara to operate the jets while Germany approved delivery of 40 of them to Turkey, which has relied on both foreign purchases and its own defence industry projects, including domestic jets, to ramp up deterrence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond the Eurofighters, Ankara is also in talks with Washington to purchase 40 F-16s. Israel's attacks on regional countries, including its 12-day conflict with Turkey's neighbour Iran and more recent strikes on another neighbour Syria, have unnerved Ankara, prompting a push for rapid armament in order to counter any potential threats. Turkey has been in talks since 2023 to purchase 40 Eurofighter Typhoons, which are built by a consortium of Germany, Britain, Italy and Spain, represented by Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo. Speaking at a signing ceremony with British Defence Secretary John Healey in Istanbul, Defence Minister Yasar Guler said the deal brought Turkey "one step closer to a fully comprehensive agreement" on the jets, adding it would also strengthen NATO and Turkey's aerial capabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We welcome this positive step toward our country joining the Eurofighter Typhoon club, and want to reiterate our mutual ambition to complete the necessary arrangements as soon as possible," he said. Guler also told reporters that the composition of the planned acquisition was for 40 jets but that different options were being considered. NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR BAE UK FACTORY Separately, the German government - initially opposed to the sale - has cleared the way for the delivery, a government spokesperson said. Spiegel news magazine reported earlier on Wednesday that the government's Federal Security Council, which decides on arms export licences based on legal and foreign policy considerations, had made a positive decision on the order for 40 jets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I can only confirm that the Ministry of Defence has sent a written confirmation to the Turkish government confirming that the export has been approved," a government spokesperson said when asked about the report at a regular press conference in Berlin. The agreements come after weeks of positive statements from Ankara and the Eurofighter consortium on the sale, with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan praising the German and British stance on the issue this week. Britain said negotiations with Turkey over an ultimate sale will continue over the coming weeks. The deal would be the first export order secured by Britain for the jet since 2017 and would give a new lease of life to the final assembly line at BAE's factory in northern England. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the multi-billion dollar agreement with Turkey would "sustain and protect 20,000 UK jobs for future years to come", while an official at BAE Systems said last week the company was confident of winning new orders from countries, including Turkey. (Additional reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu, Ece Toksabay, Rachel More and Sarah Young; writing by Tuvan Gumrukcu; editing by Jonathan Spicer, Bernadette Baum and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) The Eurofighter Typhoon has emerged as the frontrunner to become Turkeys next fighter, after an agreement was signed between the British and Turkish governments. The news of a potential sale to Ankara comes after a long process in which different options were considered, including more F-16s from the United States, while a possible return to the F-35 program has also been discussed. The Republic of Turkiye & the UK Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in relation to the potential purchase of @Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. The signing took place in a ceremony at #IDEF2025, where well be exhibiting in Istanbul this week. pic.twitter.com/lEw7hWvqUD BAE Systems (@BAESystemsplc) July 23, 2025 BAE Systems, which is responsible for the final assembly of Typhoons in the United Kingdom, today confirmed that an agreement had been signed. In a statement, the company said: BAE Systems has welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Republic of Turkiye and the U.K. government relating to the potential purchase of Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. U.K. Secretary of State for Defense, John Healey, with the Turkish Minister of Defense, Yasar Guler, during an earlier visit to Turkey. Crown Copyright The agreement was signed today by Turkish Minister of Defense, Yasar Guler, and U.K. Secretary of State for Defense, John Healey, at the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Equipping Turkey with Typhoons would strengthen NATOs collective defense, and boost both our countries industrial bases, Healey said. At this point, a procurement agreement still needs to be signed, which should happen after further negotiations between London and Ankara. Reportedly, a contract could be signed by the fall. Charles Woodburn, chief executive of BAE Systems, said: This Memorandum of Understanding between the governments of Turkiye and the U.K. underscores the importance of their long-standing defense cooperation through NATO and the critical role Typhoon plays in security and defense in Europe and the Middle East. Its not clear how many Typhoons Turkey will order, or when they will be delivered, although previous reports have suggested that 40 new-build Tranche 4 aircraft could be involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A BAE Systems official also told Aviation Week that the deal is set to include Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles from the European missile house MBDA. The Meteor is already operated by Greece, Turkeys major regional rival and fellow NATO member. Very likely, there will be a significant degree of Turkish industrial involvement in the deal. As a multinational program, all partners in the Eurofighter had to approve the potential sale. In the past, this was a particular sticking point for Germany. Ahead of the announcement that the agreement had been signed, it was reported by the German news magazine Spiegel that the countrys federal security council had approved the delivery. The council provides approval for German arms exports, but the government typically does not comment on its decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, it had been reported that a deal was close. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan reportedly said that both Germany and the United Kingdom were in favor of selling Typhoons to Turkey, and that Ankara wanted to finalize the purchase as soon as possible. While final assembly of Typhoons is carried out in each of the four Eurofighter partner nations Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom a Turkish sale is of particular importance for BAE Systems. Earlier this month, there were reports that the Typhoon production line at Warton in England would close down for good after 25 years, unless BAE Systems secured more orders. The last Typhoons to be built here were for a Qatari order, which has now been completed. The Typhoon Final Assembly Facility at Warton, Lancashire, England. Eurofighter Unite, the union that represents manufacturing workers across the United Kingdom, had described such a scenario as a betrayal of BAE [Systems] workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the agreement, saying that the potential deal would sustain and protect U.K. defense jobs. The U.K.s production of Typhoon fighter jets is an engine for economic growth supporting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of British people right across the U.K., Starmer said. Turkeys search for a new fighter jet has been a highly protracted process with various different options under consideration at different times. Turkey had long expected to introduce the F-35 as its new-generation fighter, ultimately planning to replace many of its F-16s with the stealth jet. Turkish industry was also deeply involved in the Joint Strike Fighter production effort, and at least 100 examples were to be procured, providing significant benefits in terms of offsets. The first F-35A for Turkey during its official rollout ceremony at the Lockheed Martin production facility in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 21, 2018. Photo by Atilgan Ozdil/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images The current saga began properly when Turkey was kicked out of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. The country was ejected from the multinational effort back in 2019 after it acquired S-400 air defense systems from Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the F-35 off the table, Turkey turned down an apparent Russian offer of Su-57 Felon fighters before turning to the Eurofighter Typhoon as a potential new fighter, as you can read about here. Erdogan asks: Is this Su-57? Is this flying? Putin responds: Yes it is, we will show it today Erdogan: So now, are we going to buy this one? Putin: you could buy Then Erdogan laughs pic.twitter.com/dU6qWikviG Ragp Soylu (@ragipsoylu) August 27, 2019 In the meantime, Turkey also started to look at acquiring another batch of F-16 fighters from the United States, but the United States was unwilling to approve such a request, initially at least. Aside from having bought S-400s, U.S. lawmakers voiced concerns about Turkeys worsening relations with Greece, its other connections with Russia and Azerbaijan (which included the deployment of F-16s to the latter country), its conduct in the Syrian civil war, and human rights abuses. Turkeys opposition to Sweden joining NATO also proved to be a significant hurdle. Finally, early last year, the U.S. State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Turkey of 40 new F-16C/D Block 70 fighters, plus the upgrade of 79 existing aircraft to F-16V configuration. Together with a huge package of weapons including almost 1,000 AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and other items, that deal could have been worth as much as $23 billion, if executed in full. Turkeys long path to acquiring more F-16s is something we have discussed repeatedly in the past. Turkish Air Force F-16 fighters on the runway at the air base of Balikesir, Turkey, on May 22, 2022. Photo by Ali Atmaca/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Soon after, it looked as if the F-35 might be on the table again for Turkey, when U.S. Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland told CNN Turk about the possibility of Turkey rejoining the Joint Strike Fighter program during a visit to the country in January 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nuland reportedly suggested that the United States might be willing to offer Patriot air defense systems if it were to give up its S-400s, which could also clear the way to re-entering the F-35 program. A Russian Il-76 transport aircraft, carrying the first batch of equipment for the S-400 missile defense system, arrives at the air base of Murted in Ankara, Turkey, on July 12, 2019. Photo by Turkish National Defense Ministry/Handout/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images We were in the process of negotiating the Patriot sale, and while those negotiations were going on, Turkey went in another direction, Nuland is reported as saying. Frankly, if we can resolve this S-400 issue, which we want to do, the United States would be pleased to welcome Turkey back into the F-35 family. But we must solve this other issue first, and while we solve it, we must also ensure that Turkey has a strong air defense. Meanwhile, Greece has pressed ahead with its own plans to buy F-35s, tilting the strategic balance in favor of Athens. Only last month, Erdogan said that he had not given up on acquiring F-35s and reiterated Turkeys desire to rejoin the program. At the same time, U.S. Congressional opposition to such a move continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking further ahead, Turkey plans to introduce a new-generation crewed fighter program of its own, the TF Kaan, a low-observable design, which first flew in February of last year. Turkish Aerospace Industries test pilot Barbaros Demirbas takes the TF Kaan prototype up for its maiden flight on February 21, 2024. via X While there have been questions about the viability of the Kaan program as a whole, especially in terms of its engines, the fact is that the new fighter is not expected to enter service until 2030 at the earliest. The Kaan could also face increasing competition from advanced homegrown drones, such as the ANKA-3, a low-observable flying wing unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV), and the fighter-like Bayraktar Kizilelma drone. These could not only compete for funds with the crewed fighter, but also provide another alternative to generating a balance of combat mass and high-end capabilities. The ANKA-3 presented during its official rollout in March 2023. TAI All of this means that some kind of interim fighter equipment is badly needed, especially as the F-16 fleet, despite local upgrades, continues to show its age. At this stage, with a memorandum of understanding signed, it looks like the Eurofighter Typhoon right now stands the best chance of becoming Turkeys next fighter. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com The German government has cleared the way for the export of Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Turkey, removing a key obstacle to a major arms deal involving the United Kingdom. German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius confirmed in Berlin on Wednesday that the Defence Ministry has sent written authorization to Ankara. The Turkish government must now decide whether to proceed with the order, he said. The move follows an earlier announcement on Wednesday by the UK and Turkey, which signed a letter of intent to advance a potential deal for the sale of 40 Eurofighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The jets are assembled in Britain as part of a multinational consortium involving Germany, Italy and Spain, meaning all four countries must approve any export deal. The British Defence Ministry called the agreement a "significant step forward," saying it would bolster NATO's deterrence capabilities and support thousands of defence jobs. British Defence Secretary John Healey described the potentially multibillion-pound deal as a "major milestone." Turkey seeks to modernize air defence Turkey, which was ejected from the US-led F-35 fighter jet programme in 2019 after acquiring Russia's S-400 missile defence system, is seeking to diversify its defence procurement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US officials argued at the time that the S-400 could compromise sensitive F-35 stealth data and pose a security risk. The Turkish Defence Ministry told dpa on Wednesday that the planned Eurofighter purchase is not linked to the F-35 dispute, but is part of a broader strategy to modernize its air force. Analysts have noted that Ankara will need to invest in new infrastructure and training before the jets can be delivered and become operational. Export policy shift in Berlin Germany's involvement in the Eurofighter consortium had previously stalled the deal, as Berlin had not signed off on the necessary export licences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arms deliveries to NATO partner Turkey have long been politically sensitive in Germany, due to concerns over Ankara's human rights record and foreign interventions. After Turkey's 2016 military operation in Syria, Berlin significantly scaled back arms exports. But under the current conservative-led coalition of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which took power in early May, export approvals have risen again. Yet even before that, in September 2024, the Economy Ministry, led at the time by Green Party minister Robert Habeck, announced a broader resumption of arms deliveries to Turkey, including torpedoes, guided missiles and submarine components. PARIS Turkey and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding on the export of Eurofighter Typhoon jets on Wednesday, bringing the government in Ankara a step closer to buying the multi-role fighter aircraft built by a consortium of four European countries. Negotiations on the potential deal with Turkey will continue in coming weeks, the U.K. government said in a statement . While Turkey has been seeking to buy Eurofighter jets since 2023, talks had reportedly stumbled on German reluctance to grant an export license. The bulk of the Turkish Air Forces fighter fleet consists of aging F-16 jets, with the country suspended from the F-35 program after buying S-400 air-defense systems from Russia. While Turkey is developing its own fifth-generation KAAN stealth fighter, that jet is still in the prototype phase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Todays agreement is a big step towards Turkey buying U.K. Typhoon fighter jets, U.K. Defence Secretary John Healey said in a statement. Equipping Turkey with Typhoons would strengthen NATOs collective defense, and boost both our countries industrial bases. Eurofighter vendor targets combat mass over next-gen buzz The MoU signed by Healey and Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler codifies the relationship between the two nations in a step closer to a full agreement, and an export deal would support the defense industries of both countries through reciprocal purchases, the U.K. said. A multi-billion export deal for the Eurofighter would be the first export order for the aircraft secured by the U.K. since 2017, and would help sustain 20,000 British jobs involved in the program in coming years, according to the government. Turkey is reportedly seeking to buy as many as 40 of the jets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the U.K. didnt provide financial details, Spain ordered 20 Eurofighters in 2022 for 2.04 billion (US$2.4 billion), or a price of 102 million per aircraft. That suggests a purchase of 40 jets by Turkey, which doesnt yet operate the fighter and would require support equipment and services, could be worth at least 4 billion. Under the Eurofighter work share agreement, the equivalent of 37% of each aircraft would be manufactured in the U.K., with the remainder produced by partner nations, the British government said. Final assembly would take place at the BAE Systems site in Warton, England, with radars produced in Edinburgh and engines from Bristol. The partner nations in the Eurofighter consortium are the U.K., Germany, Spain and Italy. BAE Systems will continue to work closely with the governments of Turkey and the U.K. to formalize an agreement for procurement of Typhoon aircraft and associated supplies in due course, BAE said in a separate statement on July 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.K. is the biggest Eurofighter operator with 159 jets in service, followed by Germany with 141 of the jets in operation, and another 40 on order, according to data from Airbus. Italy has a fleet of 95 Eurofighters, with 17 more on order, while Spain operates 70 aircraft with another 48 still to be delivered. Outside Europe, Saudi Arabia is the biggest operator with a fleet of 71 Eurofighters. Turkeys rival Greece operates the French Rafale aircraft alongside older F-16s and Mirage 2000s, and has ordered F-35s. The more modern Rafale equipped with Meteor missiles provides a beyond-visual-range advantage over the F-16s operated by the Turkish Air Force. While they may not match the stealth and sensor fusion of Israels F-35s, their deployment would still significantly improve Turkeys operational flexibility and regional deterrence. While Turkeys agreement with Germany and the United Kingdom for the purchase of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets does not constitute a direct or immediate threat to Israels air superiority, it is nonetheless a headache, an Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post. The agreement marks a significant step in Ankaras ongoing efforts to modernize its military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aircraft, developed jointly by the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain, are considered among the most advanced fourth-plus-generation fighter jets in the world. Their inclusion in the Turkish Air Force fleet would significantly boost the countrys aerial combat capabilities. This isnt a game-changing threat to our Air Force. The Typhoon is a capable but not superior aircraft compared to our fighter jets, the official said. But its a clear and worrying signal that Turkey is accelerating its arms buildup in a way that could eventually challenge Israels military edge in the region. The Eurofighter Typhoon 4.5 generation aircraft are highly maneuverable, equipped with advanced radar systems, and capable of multi-role missions including air superiority and ground attack. Israel Air Force fighter jets on their way to the waves of strikes in Iran (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT) While they may not match the stealth and sensor fusion of Israels F-35s, their deployment would still significantly improve Turkeys operational flexibility and regional deterrence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In parallel, Turkey is actively pursuing additional deals for US-made F-16s and potentially even F-35s, after being removed from the F-35 program in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian S-400 air defense systems. These renewed efforts have raised alarms in Jerusalem, especially amid reports that Ankara is also expanding its naval and drone capabilities. Lapid blames Israeli government for not blocking deal Opposition leader Yair Lapid lashed out at the Israeli government this week, blaming it for failing to block the Eurofighter sale. If Israel had a functioning Foreign Ministry or a normal government, it would have already intervened diplomatically to prevent this arms deal from advancing, Lapid said. Germany and the UK are now equipping Turkey with powerful jets that could eventually alter the balance of power in the region. He warned that Turkey already has the largest navy in the Middle East, and now seems to be targeting aerial parity with Israel. This is dangerous, Lapid stressed, and our inactive government let it happen, without lifting a finger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels recent wars in the region, including its 12-day conflict with Turkeys neighbor Iran and more recent strikes on another neighbor, Syria, have unnerved Ankara, prompting a push for rapid armament in order to counter any potential threats. Speaking at a signing ceremony on Wednesday with British Defense Secretary John Healey in Istanbul, Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler said the deal brought Turkey one step closer to a fully comprehensive agreement on the jets, adding it would also strengthen NATO and Turkeys aerial capabilities. We welcome this positive step toward our country joining the Eurofighter Typhoon club, and want to reiterate our mutual ambition to complete the necessary arrangements as soon as possible, he said. Guler also told reporters that the composition of the planned acquisition was for 40 jets, but that different options were being considered. Reuters contributed to this report. Scientists have identified two cancer drugs that may also lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease as they search for some way to lower its impact on an aging population. In a study published on Monday in the medical journal Cell, researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, combed through more than 1,300 candidate drugs from antipsychotics to antibiotics for anything that could help alleviate the incurable condition. Only 90 of those drugs targeted the brain cell genes thought to influence Alzheimer's, and of those only five showed evidence of actually reducing the risk of Alzheimer's in human patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scientists then chose letrozole, designed to fight breast cancer, and irinotecan, intended for treating colon and lung cancer, to test on mice. We didnt expect cancer drugs to come up," study co-author Marina Sirota told NBC News. In fact, the two drugs used in combination did appear to improve memory and brain function in aging mice who had begun to show signs of dementia. The effects still need to be proven in human studies (PA) That result still needs to be tested in humans, and the drugs may prove less effective in humans. Still, the finding is significant because pharmaceutical companies have so far struggled to develop purpose-built drugs for the disease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Developing a new drug can take hundreds of millions, or even billions, of dollars, on average take more than ten years," said study co-author Dr. Yadong Huang. "For this repurposed drug, usually it just takes two or three years, and then you can go to the clinical trial and the cost is much, much lower. "We still havent generated or produced any very effective drugs that can really slow dramatically the cognitive decline," he added. Over seven million Americans live with Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association, including 1 in 9 people aged over 65. The number is only likely to grow as the average age of the U.S. population continues to climb, with care costs for people with dementia projected to grow from $384 billion in 2025 to nearly $1 trillion by 2050. Washington State Patrol says two people were rushed to the hospital in serious condition Wednesday morning after a head-on crash in Tukwila. It happened on State Route 900 near 57th Avenue South. Multiple lanes are blocked. Drivers should avoid the area for the time being. Troopers say the causing driver hit two cars and then a third head-on. No word on whether the driver was under the influence of drugs and or alcohol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eastbound SR-900 will be closed for an extended period of time. One lane westbound is currently open as of 7:40 a.m. This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available. This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) Two male juveniles have been arrested and charged in connection with an abandoned building fire that occurred yesterday. On Monday, around 5 p.m., Ogden City Fire Department (OCFD), Ogden City Police Department (OCPD), and other agencies responded to a fire at an abandoned assisted living facility at 910 Monroe Blvd. OCFD and assisting agencies were able to put out the blaze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Juveniles seen fleeing scene before fire at abandoned building in Ogden Shortly before authorities arrived on scene, a witness spotted three juveniles fleeing the scene. Officers then conducted an area search. With the help of the community, they were able to locate two male juveniles. Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX Courtesy: Kade Garner//KTVX The juveniles, who were hiding in a nearby garage, were taken into custody and transported to the Weber Valley Detention Center. They were charged with Arson, a second-degree felony, and Criminal Trespass of a Dwelling. Due to the individuals ages, no names will be released. Ogden City Police officials noted that this incident highlights the strong collaboration between Ogden City Police, Ogden Fire Department, and assisting agencies in protecting public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials also say that the investigation is ongoing, but there is no current threat to the community. Kade Garner contributed to this story Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) Two people were indicted after they were arrested in connection with a pair of robberies in what police described as arranged romantic rendezvous last month. According to the indictment, Iyana Barlow and Dennis Lange are now charged with two counts of aggravated robbery, first-degree felonies, one of the counts with a firearm specification. The charges stem from two robberies at Foster MetroPark in which the victims reported connecting with a woman on social media who arranged for an intimate encounter at the park. On both occasions, the woman requested that they bring a firearm to the location, and when they arrived, they were robbed of their firearms by armed men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Barlow and Lange await their next court date. 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. STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (WTAJ) Two College Township businesses are recipients of grant funding for small businesses, the College Township Industrial Development Authority (CTIDA) announced. Your Building Center and Bonfire Old Fashioned BBQ were both awarded a $5,000 grant to support enhancement projects along the Gateway Corridor of East College Avenue as part of CTIDAs newly launched Small Business Grant program. The program aims to stimulate local economic growth, increase property value, and create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors to the area. Your Building Center plans to use the funding to purchase a new awning, make sidewalk repairs, and paint the exterior of the building. While Bonfire BBQ will invest in digital signage upgrades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant is a part of a larger $25,000 dedicated to helping local businesses complete upgrades to help boost the vitality of College Townships Gateway Corridor. This grant program offers financial support to help businesses bring their visions to life, creating a more inviting and vibrant commercial district for residents and visitors alike, Keri Miller, The Executive Director of the CTIDA said. These first two grants demonstrate the CTIDAs commitment to supporting local businesses in making impactful improvements that benefit both business owners and the community. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. The CTIDA says additional grant opportunities will become available over the upcoming months. For updates and details on future grant opportunities, visit www.ctida.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. July 23 (UPI) -- The inaugural NATO EuroLandWarfare was held in Wiesbaden, Germany, last week. The symposium and exhibition, which a large number of defense companies attended, was designed to reinforce NATO's new dependency on a defense industrial base capable of providing hardware and particularly software not in years, but in days or weeks. Two of the most senior U.S. generals in Europe were key speakers. Surprisingly, perhaps, comments made by both should have provoked major reactions. Neither did. The first, Gen. Christopher Donahue, commander of U.S. Army Forces Europe and Africa, bluntly assessed how NATO's military capability could neutralize the tiny Russian-controlled enclave of Kaliningrad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Situated on the Baltic Sea and nestled between NATO member states Poland in the south and Lithuania in the north, Kaliningrad was retained by Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Russia has reportedly stationed nuclear weapons in this small city state. Donahue, in what some might call bragging, forcefully predicted that NATO allies, in the event of war, could "take that down [Kaliningrad's defenses] from the ground in a timeframe that is unheard of and faster than we've ever been able to do." This smacked of Gen. George Patton. However, the Russian response so far has been muted and only has come from lawmakers, not the Putin government, who predictively have regarded this as a belligerent threat that could lead to World War III. The White House and the Pentagon have remained silent on the general's statement. One wonders who, if anyone, authorized the general to make this unduly provocative comment, no matter how correct. Was it in his script or ad-libbed, and were any of his seniors in Washington aware of or even concerned about the possible political consequences of the comment from Russia? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is it possible that in today's world, few take seriously credible statements from any source? And thus the general's seemingly offensive remark passed relatively unnoticed and unmentioned. Donahue's boss, Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, became the U.S. European and NATO's Supreme Allied Commander on July 4. He delivered the conference's keynote address the next day. It was very well-received and well-delivered. Whether he knew of, authorized or approved Donahue's statements on Kaliningrad is unknown. But in the question-and-answer period, Grynkewich inadvertently exposed two potentially grave weaknesses of the alliance. His answer to the audience question of what has surprised him most in his new assignment was most relevant. Grynch, his pilot's call sign, humorously responded that what surprised him most was that he got this job in the first place. Second, and what was most revealing, was that his greatest surprise was how Ukraine gave its brigades the authority to buy their weapons and the money to do so. Grynkewich then argued that the United States must replicate this authority at the brigade level, implicitly reinforcing the conference's challenge to defense industries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is very worrying about the general's comments is that his last job was director for operations, or J-3, of the Pentagon's Joint Staff. That he should have known about that weapons purchase policy leads to the question of how many of the Pentagon's senior leadership lacked understanding of this and other novel ways Ukraine was waging the war despite intensive study and analysis of the conflict. And while this may seem a trivial gap in knowledge, what else might the United States not know or understand about the war in Ukraine or Russia's aims that could prove a debilitating weakness? It was not news to this writer about Ukrainian brigades ordering weaponry tailored to their needs. In some cases, software upgrades were delivered in hours to the front line. This gave Ukrainian ground forces huge advantages in fighting a much larger Russian army. Even supposing that this admission, and recommendation to emulate Ukraine, were accepted by the audience, that leads to a second grave weakness. Transforming or absorbing the Ukrainian example of delegating authority to ensure quick responses into NATO's defense industrial base may be impossible today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can major defense industries, and more importantly their governments' procurement processes, shift quickly from revising contracts aimed at producing highly technologically advanced, multibillion-dollar weapons systems in relatively small numbers to the Ukrainian model that stresses mass numbers of cheap systems and a highly diversified base of many small firms? At present there are no answers to why Gen. Donahue's response got little attention, and more importantly, what we do not know about the war or how to induce defense industries to make this tectonic transformation. Harlan Ullman is UPI's Arnaud de Borchgrave Distinguished Columnist; senior adviser at Washington's Atlantic Council, chairman of a private company and principal author of the doctrine of shock and awe. His next book, co-written with Field Marshal The Lord David Richards, former U.K. chief of defense and due out next year, is Who Thinks Best Wins: Preventing Strategic Catastrophe. The writer can be reached on X @harlankullman. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Building pictured on Nov. 25, 2024. (Photo by Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom) Updated at 12:51 p.m. The U.S. Department of Education on Wednesday announced investigations into five universities across the U.S. including two in Michigan following complaints that the schools violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by offering unlawful exclusionary funding based on national origin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The University of Michigan and Western Michigan University are both subject to an investigation the department says will determine whether they are providing scholarships only for students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival status, or who are undocumented following complaints submitted to the departments Office of Civil Rights by the Legal Insurrection Foundation, a conservative advocacy group. According to a statement from the department, the University of Michigans Dreamer Scholarship, which is intended to support undocumented students or students with DACA status, will be looked into, as well as Western Michigan Universitys WMU Undocumented/DACA Scholarship for undergraduate students who are ineligible to receive federal student aid due to an undocumented or DACA status. The complaints argue these scholarships provide unlawful exclusionary funding based on national origin. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Office of Civil Rights also announced it would investigate Western Michigan Universitys Elissa Gatlin Endowed Scholarship for African American, Native American, or Hispanic American students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On January 21, 2025, President Trump promised that every single day of the Trump Administration, [he] will, very simply, put America first. Neither the Trump Administrations America first policies nor the Civil Right[s] Act of 1964s prohibition on national origin discrimination permit universities to deny our fellow citizens the opportunity to compete for scholarships because they were born in the United States, Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said in a statement. As we mark President Trumps historic six months back in the White House, we are expanding our enforcement efforts to protect American students and lawful residents from invidious national origin discrimination of the kind alleged here. This latest action comes amid efforts by President Donald Trump and his administration to dramatically redefine the federal governments role in education. His administration has pushed for sweeping changes, including an executive order directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to oversee the shutdown of her own department, deep staffing cuts affecting over 1,300 agency employees, threats to withhold funding from schools that implement diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and an aggressive campaign against so-called woke policies in higher education. Alongside the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University, the University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha and the University of Miami are also under investigation for scholarships benefitting undocumented students and students with DACA status. In an emailed statement, Kay Jarvis, director of public affairs for the University of Michigan said the college had received a letter of notification regarding the investigation and had no further comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Western Michigans Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communications Tony Proudfoot has yet to respond to a request for comment. This story was updated with comment from the University of Michigan. U.S. Issues 'Do Not Travel' Advisories For Three New Countries originally appeared on Parade. Summer marks one of the busiest times of the year for international travel, allowing millions of Americans to embark on first-class vacations with their families. As the summer season continues on, however, the U.S. State Department has released revised travel warnings for three different countries, advising American civilians against venturing to these respective destinations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In particular, Haiti, Iraq and Libya were all outfitted with a Level 4 travel warning -- the highest advisory level the State Department uses for their international travel advisories. The warning distinctions range from Level 1 ("exercise normal precautions"), to Level 2 ( "exercise increased precautions"), to Level 3 ("reconsider travel") all the way up to Level 4 ("do not travel"). In the case of each country, the U.S. has highlighted each nation's underlying dangers, including crime, kidnapping, terrorist activity and civil unrest. The State Department specifically cited potential anti-American sentiments in nations like Iraq, where the U.S. government has limited ability to assist emergency services for citizens in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians," the agency said. "Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities." While Libya is similarly experiencing a surge in violent crimes, the U.S. State Department has specifically cited the country's ongoing terrorist activity as the primary reason for its Level 4 travel warning. Haiti, on the other hand, has currently been in a State of Emergency since spring of last year, owing to increased civil unrest within the country. More recently, the State Department has revised their warning, adding evidence of terrorist activity as another thing to watch out for within the Caribbean nation. "Haiti has been under a State of Emergency since March 2024," the organization observed. "Crimes involving firearms are common in Haiti. They include robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and kidnappings for ransom. Do not travel to Haiti for any reason." U.S. Issues 'Do Not Travel' Advisories For Three New Countries first appeared on Parade on Jul 23, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 23, 2025, where it first appeared. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A GoFundMe has been set up to help a University of Memphis student take care of his two young siblings after their mother was killed in a one-vehicle accident two weeks ago in Whitehaven. Family members said Danielle Beauregard was on her way home when she left the roadway and crashed into a pole along Elvis Presley Boulevard. Danielle Beauregard Christian Dennis, 22, and his 10-year-old sister and 6-year-old brother lost their father five years ago in a deadly shooting in South Memphis. Dennis said there was no question he was keeping the family together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel like I just got catapulted into adulthood. I went from skating around every day, having fun, to two kids. So, its a crazy jump, said Dennis. Dennis said his sister was really young when their dad was killed, and his brother doesnt even remember their father. He said their moms death hit them hard, and he is going to do his best to build a life for his siblings while finishing up his degree. I actually just picked up a minor in environmental science. So, right after, I lengthened the amount of time that Im going to have to spend at this school this happens, Dennis said. I added an extra layer of responsibility to myself, and I guess the universe added another. Danielle Beauregard & Christian Dennis But Dennis, who admits to being a list maker, is up to the task. He said hes lucky to have a support system and is ready for what lies ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis said no one knows what his brother and sister need right now better than he does. I love them to death. Yeah. And furthermore, theyre a bit quirky. Theyre a bit quirky, a bit weird, said Dennis. So its like, I dont really trust anybody else to understand them. My mom, even if she didnt really understand them fully. Beauregards crash is still under investigation. Dennis is working to gain custody of his brother and sister. For more information on the GoFundMe for the young family, 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. The Republic of Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation of 320,000 people, has led a growing effort since 2021 to compel the United Nations to answer one of the most crucial legal questions related to climate change: Can polluters be held legally accountable for the harm they've caused as a result of releasing large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere? The short answer is: yes. Fifteen judges who make up the International Court of Justice, located at The Hague in the Netherlands, issued a unanimous advisory opinion saying countries "have a duty to prevent significant harm to the environment by acting with due diligence and to use all means at their disposal to prevent activities carried out within their jurisdiction or control from causing significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment." The court further stated that existing environmental treaties, international human rights law, and participation in the United Nations further compels countries to do everything possible to protect the climate. Any wrongful act that violates these agreements must be immediately stopped, followed by "full reparations" and compensation made to the injured parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Vanuatu looks forward to collaborating with other States on implementing the Court's decision," Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's minister of climate change and environment, said in a statement. "A victory in the world's highest court is just the beginning. Success will depend on what happens next through coordinated efforts across diplomacy, politics, litigation, and advocacy to turn this moment into a true turning point." Vanuatu's Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu speaks to the media after an International Court of Justice session tasked with issuing the first advisory opinion on states' legal obligations to address climate change, at The Hague in the Netherlands on July 23, 2025. / Credit: John Thys/AFP via Getty Images For Vanuatu, a country that comprises 83 islands with a combined size roughly the same as Connecticut, the decision is monumental. Officials said the country was responsible for less than 0.0004% of global cumulative greenhouse gas emissions between 1962 and 2022, but experiences disproportionate impacts of climate change. In addition to its average temperature rising, Vanuatu is seeing more severe and intense tropical cyclones. In 2023, it was hit by three cyclones that were Category 4 or higher, impacting nearly 200,000 residents and costing the country more than $400 million in economic damages. The western tropical Pacific Ocean has risen 4-6 inches between 1992-2020, which is particularly dangerous for the country as much of it is low-lying and vulnerable to erosion. All of this, along with increased precipitation and periods of drought, has caused entire communities to be relocated by the government, and the impacts are anticipated to grow more severe. "Today, the world's smallest countries have made history," Vishal Prasad, director of Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, said in a statement. "The ICJ's decision brings us closer to a world where governments can no longer turn a blind eye to their legal responsibilities. It affirms a simple truth of climate justice: those who did the least to fuel this crisis deserve protection, reparations, and a future. This ruling is a lifeline for Pacific communities on the frontline." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the advisory opinion is not legally binding, environmental organizations and law experts are hopeful that the ruling can set a legal precedent for the thousands of climate change cases around the world that are attempting to hold larger governments and companies accountable for climate pollution. "This opinion can serve as a compass for countries who are thinking about how to prioritize justice and prioritize the safety of their citizens while also being in compliance with international law," said Carly Phillips, a research scientist with the Union of Concerned Scientists who worked with the legal teams of seven countries that submitted supporting statements to the court asking for the opinion. The United States does not accept the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, but it did submit a written statement in March 2024 and participated in oral arguments, arguing that members of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the 2015 Paris Agreement already compel signatories to address climate change impacts and protects them from accountability for harming the climate. But Vanuatu's Prime Minister Jotham Napat has been skeptical of the power of the U.N. convention and the Paris Agreement, saying in a statement that neither are "generating the actions the world urgently needs fast enough." He believes a favorable opinion from the court could "support vulnerable nations in securing climate finance, technology, and loss and damage support." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court addressed this concern in its opinion and dismissed the legal argument that environmental treaties, like the Paris Agreement, protect polluters from accountability. In fact, the court emphasized that the Paris Agreement imposes strong mitigation and adaptation obligations on all parties and requires them to respond to loss and damages from climate change. Given that the United States is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases in the world, according to international data, the decision to hold large emitters responsible might be concerning, but President Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Agreement for a second time earlier this year. The court called out countries like the United States, saying that nations that are not party to climate treaties but are members of the United Nations must meet "equivalent obligations under customary international law." The impact of the opinion remains to be seen. "It's likely not going to have a lot of influence in the United States," said Maria Antonia Tigre, director of global climate litigation at the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tigre said that while the decision may not influence domestic court cases in the U.S. and the country can't be sued under the decision, the real impact could be seen internationally. A court in Brazil, for example, could cite the opinion in one of the 135 current climate change cases making its way through its domestic court system. The U.N. court also pointed out that corporate polluters are open to the advisory opinion, especially if they are based abroad in a country that is party to the U.N. and climate treaties. "Countries have an obligation to put an end to wrongful acts," said Tigre. "If a country is found to be in breach by giving permits to an oil company, they may need to revoke those permits." Representatives for Vanuatu said the next step is to take the decision back to the U.N. General Assembly to pursue a full resolution to support the implementation of the decision. The opinion will be a primary focus when U.N. countries meet in November for the next climate change conference, known as COP30, in Brazil. Bryan Kohberger sentenced to life in prison for murders of Idaho students Trump reacts to DOJ reaching out to Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer on Jeffrey Epstein files Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Uber is taking a major step toward safer, more personalized rides for women in the U.S. with the rollout of its new Women Preferences feature. Set to launch in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit in the coming weeks, the initiative allows women riders to request women drivers and gives women drivers the option to accept only women riders. The goal? Greater control, comfort and confidence on both sides of the ride. The concept isnt new to Uber globally. After launching in Saudi Arabia in 2019, where women had just earned the legal right to drive, the feature expanded to 40 countries and facilitated over 100 million trips. But bringing it stateside took time, testing and careful design to ensure the system could work in markets where most drivers are still men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Women riders can now select a Women Drivers option when requesting a ride, choose the same preference when scheduling a trip through Uber Reserve, or set it permanently in their app settings. While not every ride is guaranteed to be matched with a woman driver, enabling the feature boosts those chances significantly. On the driver side, women now have a toggle in the app that limits ride requests to women passengers even during peak hours, giving them more earning potential without compromising comfort or safety. The launch was shaped by real user feedback and field research, including testing in Germany and France to refine the experience before scaling. Now, with a reliable system in place, Uber is bringing the option to American users who have long asked for it. Uber says this is just the beginning. As Women Preferences expands, the company plans to deepen its investment through education efforts, new partnerships and continued feature enhancements. Related: One U.S. State Moving Forward With Driverless Trucks Ubers New Feature Lets Women Choose Women Drivers first appeared on Men's Journal on Jul 23, 2025 Ride-sharing is getting safer for women in America. Uber is launching Women Preference settings in the United States, giving female riders and drivers more choice, confidence, and flexibility whenever they use the app. Ubers Women Preference setting will come to the U.S. in August, starting with Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit before rolling out to more cities. With this in-app feature, female riders will have the option to request an on-demand trip or reserve a trip in advance with a female driver. Similarly, female drivers will be able to toggle "women preferred" in the settings of their app, and Uber will work to match them with female riders. They will be able to easily change the settings in their app whenever they choose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This setting will make Uber more accessible, especially for those using it late at night. This safely unlocks more earning opportunities for female drivers during peak hours while giving female riders peace of mind. Uber Screenshots showing the in app Uber women rider experience. Screenshots showing the in app Uber women rider experience. After hearing from women riders and drivers around the world, it was clear: Many want the option to match with other women, Camiel Irving, Ubers Vice President of Operations in the United States and Canada, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure. Uber first launched Women Preference in Saudi Arabia in 2019, soon after the country ended its ban on women driving. The response to Women Preference was overwhelmingly positive, which is why the product has expanded to give women more choices and flexibility no matter where they are. Since then, the Women Rider Preference feature has expanded to 40 countries including Australia, Mexico, and Canadacompleting more than 100 million trips. Uber has also addressed safety concerns for female drivers and riders by anonymizing phone numbers, allowing loved ones to track Uber trips, and adding 10-plus ways to report safety issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we make our platform better for women, we make it better for everyone, said Irving. Its about giving women more choice, more control, and more comfort when they ride and drive. Ubers Women Preference setting will come to the U.S. in August, starting with Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit before rolling out to more cities. With this in-app feature, female riders will have the option to request an on-demand trip or reserve a trip in advance with a female driver. Similarly, female drivers will be able to toggle "women preferred" in the settings of their app, and Uber will work to match them with female riders. They will be able to easily change the settings in their app whenever they choose. This setting will make Uber more accessible, especially for those using it late at night. This safely unlocks more earning opportunities for female drivers during peak hours while giving female riders peace of mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After hearing from women riders and drivers around the world, it was clear: Many want the option to match with other women, Camiel Irving, Ubers Vice President of Operations in the United States and Canada, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure. Uber first launched Women Preference in Saudi Arabia in 2019, soon after the country ended its ban on women driving. The response to Women Preference was overwhelmingly positive, which is why the product has expanded to give women more choices and flexibility no matter where they are. Since then, the Women Rider Preference feature has expanded to 40 countries including Australia, Mexico, and Canadacompleting more than 100 million trips. Uber has also addressed safety concerns for female drivers and riders by anonymizing phone numbers, allowing loved ones to track Uber trips, and adding 10-plus ways to report safety issues. When we make our platform better for women, we make it better for everyone, said Irving. Its about giving women more choice, more control, and more comfort when they ride and drive. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Century Tower on the Gainesville campus of the University of Florida. (Photo by Jay Waagmeester/Florida Phoenix) Floridas flagship university is raising rates on its out-of-state students by 10 percent, the first such increase at the University of Florida in more than a decade although university officials said that students who can prove it will cause a significant financial hardship can get the increase waived. The UFs Board of Trustees signed off on the hike during a Wednesday virtual meeting and the decision comes shortly after the state Board of Governors gave the green-light for schools to raise tuition for those students who are not residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The changes at UF are expected to raise the per-credit hour cost for undergraduates by more than $74 or more than a $1,000 a semester for those taking a full load of 15 credit hours. The decision as to whether to waive the increases will be made by Mary Parker, the universitys vice president and chief enrollment strategist. UF leaders defended the tuition hike by noting that the cost of instruction has risen in recent years and that Floridas overall out-of-state tuition cost remains among the lowest among top 10 public universities. According to College Transitions about 85% of the undergraduate students who attend the university are Florida residents while the remaining students are from out of state or other countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the brief meeting Mori Hosseini, the chair of the UF board, said that the school wont reopen its search for a new president until some time in the next year. There is a question about who will lead the institution since interim president Kent Fuchs is scheduled to step down as interim president on July 31. Florida is without a permanent leader after the Board of Governors rejected the hiring of Santa Ono, the former president of the University of Michigan. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE LONDON (AP) Britains antitrust watchdog has proposed labeling Google's and Apple's mobile ecosystems with strategic market status," which would mandate changes at the Big Tech companies to improve competition. The Competition and Markets Authority's announcement Wednesday follows separate investigations it opened at the start of the year into Googles Android and Apples iOS, using newly acquired digital market regulations designed to protect consumers and businesses from unfair practices by Big Tech companies. The watchdog said Apple and Google hold an effective duopoly," with 90-100% of mobile devices in Britain running on either mobile platform. Its investigation found a range of concerns affecting businesses and consumers such as unpredictable app reviews, inconsistent app store search rankings and commissions on in-app purchases of as much as 30%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CMA also unveiled separate roadmaps for each company outlining possible measures to improve competition, including fair and transparent app reviews and app store rankings to give British app developers certainty." The watchdog also recommends letting app developers "steer" users to channels outside of app stores where users can make purchases, mirroring similar efforts by the European Union. Google called the watchdog's decision "disappointing and unwarranted," and said Android has saved app developers money because they didn't have to adapt to different operating models for each smartphone. It's crucial that any new regulation is evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the U.K., the company's senior director of competition, Oliver Bethell, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apple said it was worried the CMA's moves could pose increase risks for users and jeopardize the U.K.'s "developer economy." Were concerned the rules the U.K. is now considering would undermine the privacy and security protections that our users have come to expect, hamper our ability to innovate, and force us to give away our technology for free to foreign competitors," Apple said in a statement. "We will continue to engage with the regulator to make sure they fully understand these risks. The regulator is seeking feedback on its proposal and has until Oct. 22 to make a final decision. The United Kingdom and Turkey have signed a letter of intent to advance a potential deal to export Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Ankara, the countries' Defence Ministries announced on Wednesday. Turkey plans to purchase 40 of the British-assembled fighter aircraft. The deal had previously stalled due to a lack of approval from Germany, which is part of the multinational Eurofighter consortium and must authorize any exports. The British Defence Ministry said the agreement marks a "significant step forward" and that a deal would strengthen NATO's deterrence capabilities while supporting thousands of defence sector jobs in the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UK Defence Secretary John Healey called the potentially multibillion-pound deal a "major milestone." Turkey was originally part of the US-led F-35 fighter jet programme but was removed in 2019 after acquiring Russia's S-400 missile defence system. US officials cited fears that the system could expose sensitive data on the F-35's stealth capabilities to Moscow. The Turkish Defence Ministry told dpa on Wednesday that the planned Eurofighter purchase is not related to the F-35 dispute but is aimed at diversifying the country's defence procurement. Ankara desperately needs to upgrade its air defence capabilities. However, analysts have noted that Turkey will need to build infrastructure and train personnel before the jets are delivered and can go into operation. Ukraine has already signed four contracts for drone interceptors worth over UAH 3 billion (approx. US$72 million). Source: a statement from Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal Quote: "The state is developing the Ukrainian drone interceptor market. Yesterday, three manufacturers were awarded contracts. In total, we now have four contracts worth over UAH 3 billion. We will continue to scale up these technologies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The defence minister also noted that, together with First Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, he met with the Brave1 cluster, the Ministry of Digital Transformation team, drone manufacturers and Ukraines largest volunteer foundations. He said the focus was on ensuring that Ukrainian soldiers on the front line are provided with UAVs. Quote: "Special attention was given to drone interceptors capable of countering Russian Shaheds. The president has tasked us with developing this field. We now have four state contracts with manufacturers. This week we also talked with major state-owned banks about lending to manufacturers under state guarantees." More details: The minister also reported that the Defence Ministry is negotiating with international partners to secure funding for the purchase of such interceptors, and that initial agreements have already been reached. Background: Recently, Ukraine's Defence Procurement Agency Director Arsen Zhumadilov stated that the agency had awarded contracts for tens of thousands of drone interceptors. Earlier, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration Tymur Tkachenko announced the launch of a "full-fledged" drone interception system to protect Kyiv. He said UAH 260 million (approx. US$6.2 million) would be allocated to the initiative. Ukrainian company Odd Systems also recently announced a strategic partnership with Danish defence group Terma Group to jointly develop a cost-effective, AI-powered drone interceptor. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainians took to the streets in protest after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a bill targeting the countrys anti-corruption agencies. The new law puts two key bodies under the prosecutor-generals control, a move critics said would reduce their independence: The newly appointed official is a Zelenskyy loyalist. Zelenskyy said the agencies had fallen under Russian influence. The European Union expressed concern that the move would reduce transparency and jeopardize the blocs financial assistance for Kyiv, while protesters said it was at odds with a decade of pro-democracy, anti-corruption efforts carried out since the downfall of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych in 2014. Its another sign that, after years of national unity, Ukraines domestic politics have returned to the fore, as Carnegie Politika noted last year. Volodymyr Zelensky has appeared to backtrack on his controversial corruption reform in an attempt to end protests in Ukraine. The president said he had heard what people are saying and decided to propose a new bill in parliament in two weeks time. Very importantly, all norms for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will be included, he said. Despite the apparent climbdown, thousands still descended onto the streets of Kyiv for a large-scale protest on Wednesday night shortly after the president made the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some protesters said they did not believe the presidents attempt to address criticism of the reform went far enough. Olena, 19, a student from Sumy, told The Telegraph she was demonstrating because I want in my country not corruption, not usurpation of the government. She said she wanted Ukraine to embrace European values adding that Ukraines corruption watchdogs should be independent. Mr Zelenskys corruption reform sparked protests across Ukraine - Ivan Antypenko/Suspilne Ukraine/JSC/Getty Images Mr Zelensky has faced unprecedented pushback from the public, serving soldiers and Ukraines western partners over his move on Tuesday to strip the countrys two key anti-corruption agencies of their autonomy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AntAC, an anti-corruption NGO, said it remained to be seen how far the president would go in restoring the free operation of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (Sapo). Tetiana Shevchuk, the head of international relations at AntAC, said: We havent seen the text of this new bill. And two weeks is a long time. If parliament was able to adopt the law in 24 hours, they should be able to rectify their mistake in the same time frame. Im happy that Zelensky has the wisdom not to escalate with the public, but we will have to see if it is done properly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law, passed on Tuesday, handed control of the agencies over to the prosecutor general, a position directly appointed by the president. The bill raised fears that Mr Zelensky could prevent the bodies pursuing cases against his close allies, such as Oleksiy Chernyshov, the former deputy prime minister, who was recently charged with accepting bribes. Thousands of demonstrators gathered to protest in Kyiv on Tuesday evening - Vitalii Nosach/Getty Images Earlier on Wednesday, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, conveyed her strong concerns over the law, her spokesman said. Brussels chiefs warned Mr Zelenskys original legislation endangered both supplies of aid and Ukraines eventual entry into the European Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Europe has become Ukraines most influential partner, filling the gulf left by the almost complete cessation of US supplies of money and weaponry since the start of the year. Protesters took to the streets across the cities of Kyiv, Dnipro, Lviv and Odesa on Tuesday night, and further demonstrations were due to be held on Wednesday. Credit: Igor Zakharenko The armed forces also spoke out against the measures, accusing the president of undermining morale at the front and handing a victory to Russia. Vitalii Umanets, one Ukrainian soldier, said: Whoever isnt in the military, please go out to the protest for me, because without independent anti-corruption bodies, theres no point at all in our current struggle, in our future victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mykhailo Lavrovskyi, a soldier in the 1st Azov Corps of the Ukrainian National Guard, wrote on X: You can argue for a long time about the effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine, but pulling off such bulls--- while fully aware that people will be against it is a deliberate provocation playing into Moscows hands. One Ukrainian officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Telegraph that the reform was definitely going to impact the morale of the soldiers, even simply by diverting attention from the fight. In ambiguous comments that could have been directed at the presidents office or the protesters, Ukraines spy chief warned that the country could be torn apart by the crisis and called for open dialogue. Kyrylo Budanov said: Ukrainian history has taught us that a nation loses if it is torn apart by internal contradictions. Credit:Bohdan Ben Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opponents characterised the original legislation as a power-grab by an increasingly authoritarian leader, panicked by the launch of investigations into his own inner circle. Mr Zelensky had attempted to justify the law, on Wednesday morning, saying he had met with the Nabu and Sapo leaders and agreed to produce a joint action plan in two weeks to ensure the country had a strong enough anti-corruption system. In our opinion, Zelensky acted [at first] because anti-corruption agencies got closer to his close allies, Ms Shevchuk said. Zelensky is not against the fight against corruption, but its not comfortable when it strikes so close he feels its going out of control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Chernyshov was charged, along with his associates, of accepting bribes to give the go-ahead to an apartment block development. The charges, which he denied before being sacked in a reshuffle, allege that he accepted an apartment in exchange for the approval. This is the first big political protest in three and a half years, which is a lot, Ms Shevchuk said. We dont like the pictures in foreign media, because we understand the war is going on. But corruption in defence procurement, for example, posed sometimes even a greater risk to Ukraine than the fluctuating level of Western support. The resolution is very simple, Ms Shevchuk added. Scrap the law and say this was a mistake. Otherwise it looks like a high-level attempt to protect corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday night, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators met in Istanbul for the third round of peace talks, with both sides expressing some openness to further dialogue. A Ukrainian spokesman emphasised that securing a meeting between Mr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin remained a top priority, saying that big issues like a ceasefire can only be resolved at the highest level. Ukraine offered face-to-face talks between the two leaders before the end of August, which it said would suit the deadline Donald Trump gave Putin this month to end the war within 50 days or face very severe tariffs. 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. One of Ukraine's Mirage 2000 fighter jets crashed on the evening of July 22 due to a reported "failure of aviation equipment," the Air Force said. The pilot, who was performing a flight mission at the time of the incident, reported the equipment failure to the flight manager and safely ejected from the aircraft, according to the Air Force. The pilot is now in stable condition. No casualties were reported. The Air Force said the pilot "acted competently" and followed the required protocols of an emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A special commission has been appointed to investigate the causes of the incident. "Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft," President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his evening address. "A French machine, very effective, one of our Mirage jets. The pilot managed to escape, and it was not shot down by the Russians." The French-made Mirage 2000s were pledged to Ukraine in a military aid package announced in June 2024. The package also included training for pilots. The first jets arrived in February 2025, and began repelling Russian aerial attacks in March. The Mirage 2000, a fourth-generation supersonic fighter, was first introduced by Dassault Aviation in the 1970s. The Mirage 2000-5 variant, introduced in 1999, features upgraded avionics, improved air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities, and an advanced sensor and control system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron told Zelensky on July 18 that Paris is ready to expand the Mirage jet pilot training program, training more pilots on more aircraft. Read also: Zelensky dismantles Ukraines anti-corruption infrastructure, brings law enforcement agencies under his thumb Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine has lost one of its French Mirage fighter jets due to a technical malfunction, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday, dealing another blow to its air defence capabilities. In a video message published on X, Zelensky said the pilot ejected safely and that the incident was not caused by Russian forces. The Ukrainian Air Force said the aircraft crashed on Tuesday evening after a failure in the "air traffic equipment." The pilot, who used the ejector seat to escape, reported the issue. The air force said there were no injuries or fatalities from the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine received its first Mirage jets from France in February, with Ukrainian pilots trained in France to operate the aircraft. France did not disclose how many planes it delivered or how many it will supply in total, but French media reported plans to transfer six of the air force's 26 Mirage 2000-5 jets to Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron announced the delivery last year to help Ukraine defend its territory and airspace. The jets were upgraded with new equipment, including to counter electronic jamming, before delivery. The loss of the jet highlights the ongoing challenges in Ukraine's air defence, which continues to struggle against Russian drone and missile attacks. Ukraine has proposed holding a leaders meeting by the end of August that would be attended by Turkish President Recep Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. Source: Oleksandr Bevz, a member of the Ukrainian delegation, at a briefing following the meeting of the Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul on 23 July, as reported by European Pravda, citing Suspilne Details: During the meeting with the Russian delegation in Istanbul on Wednesday, the Ukrainian side once again proposed hosting a leader-level meeting in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bevz recalled that Ukraine had suggested a leader-level meeting at the initial Istanbul meeting, but it never materialised. Quote from Bevz: "We have proposed a leaders meeting again this time, because we recognise that its only at this level that fundamental issues can be resolved. The Ukrainian delegation suggested holding this meeting in August. Why? Because any date within this window aligns with the vision of our partners, notably the United States, and the deadline set by President Trump for reaching a solution." The Ukrainian side also affirmed its readiness for a ceasefire, particularly with regard to strikes on critical and civilian infrastructure. Rustem Umierov, head of the Ukrainian delegation, said the parties had also discussed the next stages of prisoner and civilian exchanges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russian side agreed to the return of prisoners who have been held captive for over three years, particularly the seriously wounded and the young. Umierov highlighted that over 1,200 people will participate in the humanitarian exchange between Russia and Ukraine. He added that no concessions were secured regarding the ceasefire, with groups now focusing on priorities in regard to the prisoner exchanges and planning the leaders meeting. Background: On the evening of 23 July, the third round of peace talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations commenced in Istanbul, Turkiye. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukraine is ready to buy out the entire volume of interceptor drones that Ukrainian companies can produce by the end of the year. Source: First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov following a meeting with drone manufacturers and Ukraine's largest volunteer foundations Quote: "We discussed the topic of interceptor drones in detail. We are working together to protect Ukrainian skies and find a response to the Russian Shahed drone terror. The state is ready to contract everything that companies can produce by the end of the year." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: He noted that volunteers and charitable foundations are also actively purchasing interceptors and investing in training pilot crews. The First Deputy Prime Minister added that the meeting also discussed logistics and delivery of FPV drones to the frontline. Background: For the first time, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a list of government orders for scientists who will create 22 scientific developments. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Ukrainian and Russian delegations held a third round of peace talks in Istanbul on July 23, with the meeting lasting less than an hour. During the talks, Ukraine proposed holding a summit between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin before the end of August, according to National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, who led the Ukrainian delegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The delegation also included Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak, First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya, and deputy military intelligence chief Vadym Skybytskyi. "We are working on priority issues. Our priority is always people, ceasefire and meeting of leaders," Umerov said after the talks, adding that Ukraine and Russia agreed to conduct a humanitarian exchange involving more than 1,200 people. Ukraine has clearly outlined its priorities, including a ceasefire, a full stop to strikes on civilian infrastructure, and "silence" along the entire front line, according to Yermak. "This is where the path to a genuine peace must begin," he added in his post on X. Zelensky also previously identified the return of abducted Ukrainian children and an immediate ceasefire as key priorities in the talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vladimir Medinsky, Putin's aide and head of the Russian delegation, said Moscow proposed forming three working groups to meet online and address political, military, and humanitarian issues. Commenting on a possible leaders' meeting, Medinsky said it was crucial to first determine the topics for discussion. The Russian delegation said it suggested brief 2448-hour ceasefires to retrieve the wounded and the bodies of fallen soldiers. Moscow also offered to hand over the remains of 3,000 Ukrainian soldiers via the Red Cross "once Kyiv is ready." Medinsky's delegation also claimed around 30 civilians from Russias Kursk region, allegedly taken into Ukraine, have not been returned and called on Kyiv to clarify their status. Russia has completed work on the list of Ukrainian children submitted during the previous round of negotiations, Medinsky said. He claimed that Ukrainian children in Russia are "under state supervision, well provided for, and safe in appropriate childcare institutions." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Commenting on the third round of peace talks, Yermak said that "...It is clear that Russia is still not ready to end the war but there is still time to reconsider and put an end to this madness." Ahead of the delegations' meeting, Umerov's team held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. The July 23 meeting followed earlier rounds of negotiations on May 16 and June 2, after more than three years without formal talks. Despite limited progress, both sides have managed to negotiate several prisoner exchanges since restarting discussions. While Zelensky has expressed readiness for face-to-face talks, Putin has repeatedly declined to participate in person, sending lower-level officials instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The peace talks, characterized by great distance between the two sides' demands, have been given new energy after U.S. President Donald Trump's warning on July 14 that he would impose "severe" tariffs on Russia unless it agrees to end the war within 50 days. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has reiterated that Moscow's war goals remain unchanged, reflecting Russia's reluctance to concede from its maximalist demands. Ukraine has proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire in both rounds of talks a position supported by the U.S. but Russia has so far rejected the proposal. On July 7, Kyslytsya told the Kyiv Independent that Russia's approach at the Istanbul meetings amounts to ultimatums rather than genuine negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine conducted the ninth stage of the prisoner exchange on 23 July, bringing seriously ill and wounded soldiers back home. Source: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Quote: "Today, already the 9th stage of the exchange agreed in Istanbul took place. Seriously ill and severely wounded defenders are returning home. We can now share the details across all stages of the recent Istanbul agreements, we have managed to bring back more than 1,000 of our people. For a thousand families, this means the joy of embracing their loved ones again. I am grateful to everyone who contributed to this effort." Freed prisoners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Freed prisoners. Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Details: Zelenskyy added that the returning soldiers had defended Ukraine across various sections of the front line. A considerable number had been held captive for over three years. All will receive the support and medical treatment they need. Freed prisoners. Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Freed prisoners. Photo: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Vladimir Medinsky, the head of the Russian delegation, told journalists after the talks were over that around 250 people from each side had been exchanged. He said this was the final exchange within the scope of the previous agreements. Background: On the evening of 23 July, the third round of peace talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations was held in Istanbul, Turkiye. Ukraine proposed holding a leaders meeting by the end of August that would be attended by Turkish President Recep Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! During a dialogue with European Commission representative Gert Jan Koopman, Ukraines newly-appointed Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka underscored that the reforms vital for Ukraines EU accession remain an unwavering priority, despite the swirling debate over the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Source: communication from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, as reported by European Pravda Details: Kachka briefed the European official on President Volodymyr Zelenskyys meeting with all heads of law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He assured Koopman that the government has adopted a "profoundly serious stance" on combating corruption, closely heeding the publics voice and expert perspectives. Moreover, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister revealed that "active efforts are underway to gather and analyse the views of all stakeholders regarding the law". "European integration transformations, notably those outlined in the Rule of Law Roadmap, stand as our foremost priority Ukraine will persist in strides toward the goals set forth in that document. Fostering an open and transparent dialogue with the EU and its structures, alongside our journey toward the European Union, is my personal mission," Kachka asserted. He also shared his intent to convene swiftly for a candid exchange with experts from negotiating groups tackling law enforcement and anti-corruption issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He reassured the European official that "his personal aim is to safeguard the enduring trust between Ukraine and the EU". Background: The head of the Netherlands Foreign Affairs Ministry affirmed that the independence of anti-corruption bodies is a cornerstone for Ukraines EU progress, while Swedens Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed grave concern over the new laws impact on the autonomy of Ukraines anti-corruption institutions. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukraine lost a French-made Mirage fighter on Tuesday, saying it was due to a malfunction. France delivered six of the fourth-generation jets in February to bolster Ukraine's air force. No casualties were reported, and the pilot ejected safely, Ukraine said. Ukraine's air force said on Tuesday that one of its Dassault Mirage 2000 fighters crashed due to a malfunction, marking its first loss of the French-donated jet. It's a blow to Ukraine's limited fleet of Western fourth-generation aircraft, which Kyiv spent years urging its allies to help build amid Russia's invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine is believed to have received six Mirage 2000-5 fighters, meaning it likely has five left. Local media reported in December that Ukraine requested 12 to 20 of the single-seat French jets in total. The Mirage downed on Tuesday was performing a flight mission, the Ukrainian air force said in a statement. "On the evening of July 22, 2025, during the execution of a flight mission on a Mirage-2000 fighter jet, a failure of aviation equipment occurred, which the pilot reported to the flight director," the statement read. "He then acted competently, as required in crisis situations, and successfully ejected. The search and rescue team found the pilot, his condition is stable," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No casualties were reported. The air force said it would investigate the incident under a special commission. France first delivered Ukraine's Mirages in February. It said it had also added several upgrades, including an electronic warfare system, that allow the jets to approach and strike ground targets more effectively. Still, Kyiv has largely used its Western aircraft for safer air defense missions, destroying Russian drones and missiles within its airspace. Kyiv is also believed to have over 50 US-made F-16 Fighting Falcons, though it's been pledged roughly 85 of the jets in total from European nations. Four of its F-16s have been reported destroyed, some in combat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his evening address on Tuesday that Russia did not shoot down the Mirage. "Unfortunately, we lost our combat aircraft today, a French machine, a very effective one. One of our Mirage jets," Zelenskyy said. "The pilot managed to save himself, and this was not a Russian shoot-down." The Mirage is also one of Ukraine's few platforms for firing the powerful, long-range Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles that the UK and France have given Ukraine. The F-16 is not configured to launch this munition. Upgraded versions of the French jet, which first entered operational service in the 1980s, can cost about $43 million each. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The multirole version given to Ukraine, the Mirage 2000-5, was fully introduced into the French air force in 1997. Paris is now moving toward retiring the jet, phasing out older variants since 2022 in favor of the newer Rafale fighter. Dassault and Ukraine's air force did not respond immediately to requests for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider Ukraines Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka has assured Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST) within the European Commission, that reforms necessary for Ukraines accession to the EU remain a priority. Source: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration on Facebook, as reported by European Pravda Details: Kachka informed Koopman about President Volodymyr Zelenskyys meeting with the heads of Ukrainian law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kachka assured Koopman that the government is taking the issues related to the fight against corruption "very seriously" and is closely monitoring the position of civil society and expert circles. The Office stated that "active work is underway to collect and analyse the views and positions of all stakeholders regarding the law". Quote from Kachka: "European integration transformations, including those outlined in the Rule of Law Roadmap, remain our priority Ukraine will continue to implement steps aimed at achieving the goals set out in the document. Maintaining an open and transparent dialogue with the EU and all relevant bodies, as well as our movement towards the European Union, is my personal priority." Details: Kachka also informed Koopman of his intention to meet as soon as possible for an open and honest dialogue with experts from the negotiating groups dealing with law enforcement and anti-corruption issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He assured the European official that "his personal goal is to preserve the existing trust in relations between Ukraine and the EU". Background: Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp stated that the independence of anti-corruption bodies is a key condition for Ukraines EU accession process, while Swedens Foreign Ministry said that the new law "raises serious concerns about the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption institutions". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Kyiv believes that launching substantive negotiations on Ukraines accession to the EU remains an achievable goal despite the recent legislative changes concerning the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the EUs sharp reaction. Source: former Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Olha Stefanishyna in a comment to European Pravda regarding its article on Ukraines EU path (English translation coming soon) Details: Stefanishyna stressed that the opening of negotiations with Ukraine, which could have taken place at the Council of the EU meeting on 18 July, was disrupted for reasons unrelated to Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The decision to open the first cluster, which had been prepared for 18 July at the level of European affairs ministers, required only political consolidation among EU member states and the European Commission," she stated. Stefanishyna pointed out that prior to this, Kyiv and European capitals had received formal confirmation that Ukraine had met the conditions to begin negotiations: "Everyone proceeded from the fact that the European Commission had confirmed that Ukraine had fulfilled the conditions for opening the first cluster". Despite recent developments including large-scale searches of NABU detectives, investigative actions involving NABU and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) and the urgent adoption of a law which, according to journalists, undermines the independence of these anti-corruption bodies Olha Stefanishyna remains optimistic that the EU will agree to start accession talks with Ukraine. "The opening of the first negotiation cluster has become even more relevant in light of recent events, as it is a fundamental block that in any case entails the reform of law enforcement agencies," she said. "This dialogue is overdue, and I am convinced that starting negotiations is realistic. The path to opening the cluster remains open," Stefanishyna emphasised. Background: The European Commission is deeply concerned about the law restricting the independence of NABU and SAPO and is awaiting an explanation from Kyiv. European Pravda has also learned that the Commission officially informed the Ukrainian government of the consequences this law could have for Ukraines EU path. Similar statements were made by several member states, including Germany and the Netherlands. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukraines Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko asserts that he did not request an expansion of his own authority over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Source: Ukrainska Pravda reporting from Kravchenkos briefing in Kyiv on 23 July Quote from Kravchenko: "I did not seek an increase in the powers of the Prosecutor General. My opinion was not consulted." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Kravchenko revealed that he discovered the amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code, which bolster his influence over anti-corruption bodies, through the Telegram channel of MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak. Kravchenko brushed aside queries about the rushed adoption and signing of the law, insisting that legislation is the domain of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament), while his role is merely to enforce it. Background: On 22 July, the Verkhovna Rada passed Law No. 12414 On Amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure Code on Peculiarities of Pre-trial Investigation of Criminal Offences Related to the Disappearance of Persons Under Special Circumstances in the Conditions of Martial Law, with amendments that make NABU and SAPO dependent on the decisions of the Prosecutor General. The heads of NABU and SAPO, Semen Kryvonos and Oleksandr Klymenko, called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy not to sign the document that would effectively destroy the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. However, on the evening of 22 July, Zelenskyy signed the law. Protests were held in many cities across Ukraine following the adoption of this legislative initiative. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Servant of the People faction issued a statement addressing the unfolding events around anti-corruption bodies, calling for a shift "from emotional outbursts to constructive dialogue". Source: Davyd Arakhamiia, the leader of the Servant of the People party faction, on Telegram Quote: "We must transition from emotional statements to constructive action regarding the work of law enforcement agencies. In this vein, the Presidents meeting with the leadership of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office, the Security Service of Ukraine, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Bureau of Investigation, the National Agency on Corruption Prevention and the Prosecutor General proved immensely significant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is consensus that a plan of concrete measures will be crafted to address all existing issues and bolster the real strength of the law enforcement and anti-corruption framework. We acknowledge the discontent, and we will respond to it. Once the comprehensive action plan is unveiled, we in the Verkhovna Rada [Ukraines parliament] stand ready to offer political backing and provide the necessary resources and solutions." Details: Arakhamiia offered no specifics, merely noting that the faction is "prepared to continue politically supporting all essentials for the law enforcement system, and as soon as the changes are proposed, they will be thoroughly reviewed." Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! By Olena Harmash and Dan Peleschuk KYIV (Reuters) -Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vowed on Wednesday to retain the independence of anti-corruption agencies, bowing to pressure from the first wartime street protests and rare rebukes from European allies. For a second day in a row, thousands of people across the country - from Kharkiv in the northeast to the capital Kyiv to Lviv in the west - took to the streets demanding reversal of the law curbing the independence of anti-graft agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his evening address to the nation on Wednesday, Zelenskiy said he would submit a new bill to ensure the rule of law and retain the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. "Of course, everyone has heard what people are saying these days... on social media, to each other, on the streets. It's not falling on deaf ears," Zelenskiy said. Thousands of people turned up for a second day of protests in central Kyiv, close to Zelenskiy's office. In the first such demonstrations of the war, the youth, activists, and war veterans chanted 'Shame' and 'Veto the Law'. "It's like a knife in the back, to be honest," Maryna Mykhalchuk, 26, who has friends killed in the war and plans to join the army soon, told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opposition lawmakers and European officials also called for reversal of the law, which Zelenskiy signed overnight. The law gives the Prosecutor General appointed by Zelenskiy more power over two investigative anti-corruption agencies. It was rushed through parliament on Tuesday, a day after the security services arrested two anti-corruption officials for suspected Russian ties. In a joint statement, both agencies - the anti-corruption bureau NABU and the specialised prosecutors SAPO - said they wanted their independence restored through legislation. Parliament is expected to hold an emergency session next week to consider the new draft bill from Zelenskiy's office, several lawmakers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement STRONGEST CRITICISM SINCE THE WAR BEGAN The law prompted some of Ukraine's European allies to deliver their strongest criticism of Zelenskiy's government since Russia's invasion in February 2022. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her strong concern to Zelenskiy and asked for an explanation, said the spokesman. The law's critics say the government appears to be trying to rein in anti-corruption agencies to protect officials. After decades of endemic corruption in Ukraine, cleaning up its government has been held up as the key condition for the country to join the EU, tap billions of dollars in foreign aid, and integrate more broadly with the West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue risks antagonising Kyiv's most loyal allies at a time when it is trying to smooth over the relationship with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has frequently criticised Zelenskiy. "Ukraines anti-corruption institutions are vital to its reform path. Restricting them would be a significant setback," Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said in a post on X. Benjamin Haddad, France's European Affairs minister, said it was not too late to reverse the decision. Ukrainian political analysts said the legislation risked undermining society's trust in Zelenskiy during a critical stage of the war against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fierce fighting rages along more than 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) of the frontline. Russian troops continue their grinding advance in the east and have stepped up near daily attacks on Ukrainian cities with hundreds of drones. Hundreds of protesters, some clad in military uniforms, in the city of Zaporizhzhia, close to the frontline in the southeast, demanded overturning the law with chants of "Ukraine is not Russia." Similar rallies took place in other major cities across the country. The public's European aspirations are vital to sustaining the war effort, said Valerii Pekar, a Kyiv-based analyst: "Only democracy and the European choice give us a chance to win," he posted on Facebook. (Additional reporting by Anastasiia Malenko; Editing by David Gregorio) Editor's note: The article was updated after the Ukrainian delegation met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Ukrainian delegates met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on July 23 ahead of the third round of peace negotiations with Russia, Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak announced. "We expressed our gratitude to Turkey and President (Recep Tayyip Erdogan) for their consistent political and security support for Ukraine throughout the full-scale war with Russia," said Yermak, who is part of the delegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We also appreciate Turkey's readiness to provide a platform for negotiations and to support diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace for Ukraine." The Ukrainian delegation, led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, will subsequently head for Istanbul for negotiations with Moscow. Russian state media reported that a Russian delegation has already arrived for the talks, which are scheduled to start at the Ciragan Palace in Istanbul at 7 p.m. local time. The talks will follow the previous two rounds of negotiations with Russia, held in Istanbul in May and June. These failed to achieve a breakthrough in ending the hostilities but led to new agreements on prisoner exchanges. Ahead of the upcoming meeting in Istanbul, the Ukrainian delegation led by Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, @rustem_umerov, arrived in Ankara and held an important meeting with President of Turkiye, Recep @RTErdogan. We conveyed greetings from President of pic.twitter.com/GDJO0ic6Si Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) July 23, 2025 The chief task for Umerov's team during the upcoming round is to facilitate a face-to-face meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, a source familiar with the matter told the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Zelensky has repeatedly voiced readiness to meet Putin, the Russian leader has thus far refused to attend the talks in person. Other priorities publicly outlined by Zelensky are further exchanges of civilian and military captives and the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. The president also said the Ukrainian delegation will once again demand an immediate and complete ceasefire. Apart from Umerov and Yermak, the Ukrainian delegation includes representatives from the Foreign Ministry, military intelligence (HUR), and the Presidential Office, including First Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya and deputy military intelligence chief Vadym Skybytskyi. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on July 21 that Putin's aide, Vladimir Medinsky, would again lead the Russian delegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peskov also reiterated that Moscow's war goals remain unchanged, reflecting Russia's reluctance to concede from its maximalist demands. Ukraine has proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire in both rounds of talks a position supported by the U.S. but Russia has so far rejected the proposal. Kyslytsya told the Kyiv Independent on July 7 that Russia's approach at the Istanbul meetings amounts to ultimatums rather than genuine negotiations. Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The main task of the Ukrainian delegation that has travelled to Istanbul for negotiations with Russian representatives is to arrange a direct meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Source: Ukrainska Pravda sources in the delegation Details: The sources said that apart from the humanitarian aspect, the main objective is to organise a meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian drones reportedly struck the Russian city of Novocherkassk in Rostov Oblast on July 22, while a Ukrainian official said that a railway hub used by the Russian military was targeted. The alleged attack comes amid Kyiv's ongoing long-range drone campaign, aimed at crippling Russia's ability to sustain its all-out war by targeting key industrial and military facilities in the rear. Rostov Oblast Governor Yuri Slyusar confirmed Ukrainian drone attacks against Novocherkassk and other areas in the region. Drone wreckage started fires across the city, and three people were injured, one of them seriously, the governor claimed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drones may have targeted the local railway station and the Novocherkassk State District Power Plant, Russian Telegram channels Baza and Astra reported, citing local residents. "In Novocherkassk in Rostov Oblast, the railway infrastructure used by the military-industrial complex and the Russian military came under attack," said Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. "This logistical hub connects strategic directions: Rostov-on-Don, Voronezh, Volgograd, and Kamensk-Shakhtinsky. It is through this hub that the transfer of equipment, ammunition, fuel resources, and personnel to the Ukrainian border is carried out." According to the official, the city also houses the facilities of Russia's 1061st Material and Technical Support Center of the Southern Military District, which are responsible for arms and fuel supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Novocherkassk, a southwestern Russian city of 160,000 residents, lies around 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the front line in Ukraine. "Hubs like Novocherkassk are the arteries that feed the Russian war machine. Without them, supplies to the front stop," Kovalenko said. Thirty-three Ukrainian fixed-wing drones were downed over Russia overnight, including 11 over Rostov Oblast, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed. Russian officials have not confirmed any damage to military or strategic facilities in Novocherkassk. The Ukrainian military has not commented on the claims, which could not be independently verified. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian troops enter Pokrovsk, Ukrainian search and destroy operation ongoing Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Ukrainian Air Force has received a fleet of new vehicles to help it operate and maintain its Western-supplied F-16 Viper fighters at dispersed locations around the country. This underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in generating air combat power under the constant threat of Russian attacks. Ukraines experiences in this regard are already deeply influencing the U.S. military, which is planning to operate crewed and uncrewed aircraft from distributed forward locations in future high-end fights, such as one against China in the Pacific. These concepts of operations would also be relevant in the event of a major conflict elsewhere in Europe. Come Back Alive, a charitable foundation in Ukraine, announced yesterday the delivery of two sets of vehicles primarily intended to help with munitions handling and maintenance of F-16s, as well as a mobile command post to support mission planning tasks. Come Back Alive worked together on the project with Office 61, a component of Ukraines state-run defense industrial complex, and state-owned oil and natural gas company Ukrnafta. At least 85 F-16s have been pledged to Ukraine from multiple countries, but how many have been delivered is unclear. The Ukrainian Air Force has also lost at least four of the Vipers it has received. Each of the munitions handling and maintenance vehicle sets consists of one 44 workshop truck, designed in part to help with the preparation and testing of aviation weapons, as well as two more 44 trucks equipped with small cranes that are able to aid in attaching munitions to the aircraft, according to Come Back Alive. A 44 pickup is also provided, primarily to help carry additional personnel. The 44 trucks look to be based on members of the Daily family produced by Iveco in Italy, and the pickups appear to be from Peugeot in France. One of the 44 workshop trucks. Come Back Alive One of the 44 trucks equipped with a small crane. Come Back Alive One of the pickup trucks. Come Back Alive capture Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Come Back Alive calls the Mission Planning Complex consists of a German-made 66 MAN truck and a 44 trailer. The truck has workstations for up to seven individuals to support mission planning and related tasks. Ukrainian F-16 pilots will also be able to receive pre-mission briefings inside the vehicle. The trailer is described as a residential module for long-distance relocations, suggesting that it might be something of a camper van that personnel can at least sleep inside in the absence of more established facilities. The MAN-based Mission Planning Complex truck and trailer. Come Back Alive All 10 vehicles collectively cost 51,354,554 Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH), or just over $1.23 million at the rate of conversion at the time of writing, of which 49,438,176 UAH (approximately $1.18 million) came from Ukrnafta, according to Come Back Alive. This project became the Foundations first focused on working with the F-16. Here we solve two tasks: the first is a mobile mission planning command post; the second is preparation for the use of aviation weapons, Taras Chmut, Come Back Alives director, said in an English language press release yesterday. Ukraines F-16s operate under the conditions of a full-scale war with constant sorties and continuous Russian hunting for the aircraft. In conditions of limited time for the full deployment of infrastructure for the F-16, the most rational solution is to invest in a mobile ecosystem. It will allow for the maximum use of the capabilities of the most complex Western equipment already now, during a modern war, where efficiency and speed affect its course. This complex is the implementation of the most urgent needs of Air Force specialists. Taking into account the advanced experience of European countries regarding the use of aviation weapons, particularly the armament of F-16 aircraft, an unnamed representative from Office 61 also said in a statement in the release. The need for such a complex arose due to the extensive system of aircraft basing and the lack of specialists. The implementation of this project will significantly increase the Air Forces ability to destroy the enemy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More specifically, previously, 10 to 12 people were needed to hang one ammunition [onto an F-16]. Thanks to this complex, it is now possible to realize with the help of three people, a representative from Office 61 identified only as Sergei also said, according to a machine translation of a statement in a separate Ukrainian language press release about the vehicle deliveries from the Ukrainian Air Force. To date, Ukraines F-16s have been observed with air-to-air and air-to-ground loadouts that include AIM-120 and AIM-9 air-to-air missiles, as well as GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) precision-guided glide bombs. Vipers delivered to Ukraine also notably have relatively advanced electronic warfare suites. A Ukrainian F-16 loaded with AIM-120s and AIM-9s. Ukrainian Air Force All of this highlights the challenges the Ukrainian Air Force continues to face in adapting its existing playbook to its new fleet of second-hand F-16s, issues that could also apply to other Western-supplied aircraft now and in the future. It is worth noting here that Swedens Gripen fighter, which has been discussed in the past as a possible option for Ukraine, was designed around distributed operations under wartime conditions. This is all on top of already extremely demanding wartime conditions that see Ukraines combat jets, including older Soviet-designed types built with more austere operating locations in mind, take off and land at different bases as a matter of standard operating procedure to reduce vulnerability to Russian attacks. Ukrainian fighters have also trained in the past to make use of highways as alternatives to traditional runways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war between Russia and Ukraine has only underscored how vulnerable modern military aircraft are on the ground, especially if they are parked on open flightlines. Ukrainian forces have themselves targeted Russian air bases with long-range missile and drone attacks, as well as commando raids. In June, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) launched an unprecedented covert drone attack operation on multiple Russian air bases from within that country, which destroyed a number of prized strategic bombers and other aircraft. , 41 https://t.co/OSxqEsI9CDpic.twitter.com/aGSZNEsoX3 (@ServiceSsu) June 4, 2025 Expanding the total number of airfields that Ukraines F-16s can operate from can only improve the effectiveness of that shell game. The vehicles that Come Back Alive and its partners have now delivered allow for the prepositioning and repositioning of ground support assets to new locations simply by driving there. They could even be on the move from one location to another while Vipers are flying their missions to help maximize their utility. While the Ukrainian Air Force faces unique challenges with the F-16 after years of flying Soviet-era aircraft with significantly different operational and sustenance requirements, the complexities of generating combat airpower while under attack are more broadly applicable to armed forces globally. The U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Marine Corps, in particular, see the ability to conduct distributed air operations from far-flung locations as key to not just success, but survival in future high-end fights. The Air Force has also been open about drawing lessons learned already from observations of the conflict in Ukraine, which are feeding into still-evolving concepts of operations referred to collectively as Agile Combat Employment (ACE). I have the opportunity to talk to the Ukrainian air chief once every two weeks, or so. And theyve been very successful not getting their aircraft hit on the ground, retired Air Force Gen. James Hecker, then-head of U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE), said during a panel discussion at the Air & Space Forces Associations Warfare Symposium in March. And I ask him, I said, How is that? What do you do? And he goes, Well, we never take off and land at the same airfield. Im like, okay, you know, thats pretty good. Keeps the Russians on their toes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I got tons of airfields from tons of allies, and we have access to all of them. The problem is, I can only protect a few of them, he continued. We cant have that layered [defensive] effect for thousands of airbases. Theres just no way its going to happen. So, to go think youre going to land at another airfield and hang out there for a week with no defense, youre going to get schwacked. Its going to happen, he added. You can only stay there for a little bit, and then youve got to get back to your main operating bases. Its going to be much shorter operations. You know, were not talking weeks anymore, Hecker explained. Were talking days, and sometimes were talking hours, if you want to be survivable. And then back at your main operating base, youve got the layered defense. Hecker further highlighted the demands this then puts on supporting assets on the ground at these dispersed locations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So you got to figure out, where do you pre-deploy weapons, which weve done amongst a handful of bases right now equipment, and wheres that going to be, he said. And are you just going to stop for a gas-and-go? Go do your mission, and then go back to your main operating base to get weapons? Air Force personnel load munitions onto an F-16 at Istrana Air Base during the ACE-focused Exercise Fighting Wyvern 25-01 in March 2025. USAF Airman 1st Class Zachary Jakel The Air Force sees these questions as being further pronounced around the planned introduction of new Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones, which the service describes as being its first aircraft designed from the ground up for future distributed operations. When you think about the sustainment architectures that we built in the past, the thought was that they were going to be in sanctuary, Air Force Maj. Gen. Joseph Kunkel said during a talk that the Hudson Institute think tank in Washington, D.C., hosted earlier this year. So, you know, you could afford to build a piece of aircraft ground equipment that weighed 10,000 pounds and wouldnt fit on a C-130. Kunkel is director of Force Design, Integration, and Wargaming within the office of the deputy chief of staff for Air Force Futures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will tell you, some of its not like the sexy, cool stuff. Its like the basics. Its like bomb loaders, missile loaders, and, you know, refueling trucks and, you know, electric carts and air conditioning carts, Kunkel added at that time. Theyve got to be made differently. Members of the US Air Force unload lighting carts from a C-130 at Moscows Vnukovo International Airport in support of President Barack Obamas visit to Russia in 2009. USAF So I mentioned earlier that DAO [distributed aviation operations] is really challenging us in the enabler world to kind of evolve our tactics, our formations, and our equipment to really get better, get lighter, [and] get faster, Marine Col. Mike McCarthy, then-head of the office of the deputy commandant for aviations aviation enablers branch, had also explained during a presentation at the 2024 Modern Day Marine exposition. At that time, McCarthy specifically highlighted how this had prompted new Marine requirements for a C-130-transportable airfield crash truck to support future expeditionary and distributed missions. He also discussed work to add new infrared cameras to the services existing larger P-19R crash trucks to improve their ability to operate in remote and austere environments, as well as in the aftermath of enemy attacks. This all further underscores the often underappreciated demands of conducting air operations from dispersed locations. A Marine Corps P-19R crash truck. USMC Road-mobile assets will not have the same degree of utility in all locales, especially during any future operations across the broad expanses of the Pacific. At the same time, when it comes to airlifting a support package to a forward location, making it as compact and mobile as possible would still be very important. Cargo aircraft capacity would be in very high demand overall and stretched to its limits in any high-end fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altogether, the delivery of new trucks to the Ukrainian Air Force may seem like a relatively small development, but that service clearly sees their arrival as offering an important boost in capability and capacity for generating F-16 sorties. This may well come to reflect a broader trend toward the fielding of lighter and/or more mobile ground assets to support air operations, including in the U.S. military. Contact the author: joe@twz.com Hungarian media have received photos supposedly taken in a section of an apartment block in the city of Mukachevo in Zakarpattia Oblast showing anti-Hungarian graffiti on the walls. Ukrainian officials responded with humour. Source: European Pravda Details: The Hungarian outlet Index received photographs supposedly taken in a section of an apartment block in Mukachevo showing offensive messages on the walls and lift doors. The individual who sent them claimed the photos were taken on the morning of 23 July. The graffiti Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Index The graffiti includes phrases such as "Magyars are not people" and "Slaughter Magyars", along with an obscene message directed at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Heorhii Tykhyi, spokesperson for Ukraines Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reacted to the publication by calling on people "not to comment on lift graffiti and not to look for enemies in Ukraine" presenting his message in the style of the graffiti itself. Mukachevo Mayor Andrii Baloha also responded with humour. "Dear Hungarian authorities, please have some pity on our utility workers and law enforcement officers give us the exact address. In this heat, theyve already checked every building and stairwell in Mukachevo, searched every crack all to no avail," he wrote on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We understand youve got elections coming up and might be short of other working topics," Baloha added. "But honestly its not right for our children to see this kind of graffiti. And besides, our people are tidy and dont really like to see obscenities in their stairwells." Background: On 17 July, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban claimed that unknown individuals set fire to a church in Ukraines Zakarpattia Oblast, leaving the inscription "Magyars to the knives". Before that, Hungary had summoned Ukraines ambassador following the alleged death of a Hungarian citizen in Zakarpattia Oblast, supposedly as a result of actions by the military enlistment office staff. Hungary then called on the EU to impose sanctions on Ukrainian officials and introduced its own national sanctions. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko has been unable to answer a question from Ukrainska Pravda about the possible existence of criminal cases involving National Anti-Corruption Bureau Director Semen Kryvonos and Head of the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office Oleksandr Klymenko. Source: Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko during a press briefing in Kyiv Quote: "I have not investigated this issue. I cannot answer you. These questions were not raised in my office." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The day before, NABU Director Semen Kryvonos and SAPO Head Oleksandr Klymenko said they were preparing for various possible scenarios, including criminal cases being opened against them. Background: On 21 July, employees of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office conducted approximately 80 searches targeting 19 employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau in various oblasts of Ukraine. The NABU detectives have been charged with treason, illegal trade with Russia, and corruption in the interests of oligarchs. Meanwhile, the State Bureau of Investigations has stepped up its efforts looking into materials on road accidents involving NABU employees that occurred several years ago. The next day, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) passed Law No. 12414 On Amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure Code on Peculiarities of Pre-trial Investigation of Criminal Offences Related to the Disappearance of Persons Under Special Circumstances in the Conditions of Martial Law, with amendments that make the NABU and the SAPO dependent on the decisions of the Prosecutor General. The heads of the NABU and SAPO, Semen Kryvonos and Oleksandr Klymenko, called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy not to sign the document, which effectively destroys the independence of the anti-corruption agencies. However, on the evening of 22 July, Zelenskyy signed the law. Protests were held in many cities across Ukraine following the adoption of this legislative initiative. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Oksana Parashchak, a student at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv (KNU), has publicly spoken out against two lecturers who are also serving MPs and who voted for a bill limiting the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption agencies. Parashchak is studying at the universitys Educational and Scientific Institute of Public Administration and Civil Service. Source: Oksana Parashchak on Facebook Details: The lecturers, Liubov Shpak and Lesia Zaburanna, were among the MPs who voted in favour of the controversial bill No. 12414, which restricts the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Traitors who supported the de facto destruction of NABU and SAPOs independence and are dragging Ukraine back to the Yanukovych era are 'teaching' future public administrators. I categorically refuse to attend Zaburanna and Shpaks lectures and DEMAND that they not be included in my schedule next term." More details: Parashchak called on other students to oppose the inclusion of Shpak and Zaburanna in the university schedule and to boycott their assistants as well. "I urge students not to let those who are destroying the anti-corruption system brainwash you. If you have any self-respect at all," she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: On 22 July, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) voted in favour of controversial bill No. 12414, which limits the independence of the anti-corruption institutions NABU and SAPO. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed it despite appeals from activists, expressions of concern from the European Union, and mass protests in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Odesa. For reference: Oksana Parashchak is a military journalist in the National Guard. She received her bachelors degree from KNUs Institute of Journalism. She has previously spoken out against harassment at the university and called for the dismissal of journalism professor Mykyta Vasylenko. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukraines wartime unity has frayed. On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters congregated in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and Odesa to campaign against the Verkhovna Radas quick-fire passage of Bill 12414. This legislation subordinates Ukraines two primary anti-corruption bodies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (Sapo), to the control of a prosecutor general appointed by president Volodymyr Zelensky. Bill 12414 is provoking outrage in Ukraine for two reasons. First, it is regarded as a major step backward in Ukraines anti-corruption struggle. During his first years in power, Zelensky was accused of using criminal investigations to undermine political rivals like pro-Russian Opposition Bloc leader Viktor Medvedchuk and former president Petro Poroshenko. This perception of selective justice reduced his popularity and sullied his reputation as a reformer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Russias invasion began in February 2022, Zelensky has tried to transform that image through bold anti-corruption crackdowns. After reports were released about the Ukrainian defence ministry procuring eggs for soldiers above market prices, Zelensky dismissed his widely praised defence minister Oleksii Reznikov in September 2023; though Reznikov was not personally accused of corruption, he failed to tackle it. Zelensky also fired officials in charge of military recruitment over men escaping conscription. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) opened investigations into five individuals for purchasing $40 million in mortar shells that were not delivered to the Ukrainian army. While these grand gestures were widely praised by the international community and corruption-weary Ukrainians, Bill 12414 has reignited old criticisms of Zelenskys politicised approach to crime-fighting. The heated turf war between the SBU and Ukraines anti-corruption agencies, which has seen Nabu agents raided for alleged collaboration with Russia, will only polarise Ukrainian society further. Second, it deals a major blow to Ukraines aspirations of joining the European Union (EU), and could jeopardize long-term American support for Ukraine. The EUs enlargement commissioner Marta Kos described Bill 12414 as a serious step back and insisted that Ukraines European path hinged on independent anti-corruption agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics within the Maga movement of president Donald Trumps pro-Ukraine pivot also keenly pounced on Zelenskys decision. Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, for example, called upon Ukraines protesters to overthrow Zelensky and reiterated her opposition to military aid to Ukraine. Bill 12414 is likely to revive calls within the Republican Party for closer auditing of arms transfers to Ukraine, which could delay vital weapons supplies to the frontline. While these rationales are ample grounds for protest, the unrest we are seeing also reflects a broader cleavage within Ukrainian society. Due to wartime martial law restrictions and the indefinite postponement of presidential elections, Zelensky has been able to consolidate near-absolute power in Ukraine. It is telling that even Zelenskys long-standing political opponents enthusiastically supported Bill 12414. Former prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who came third in the 2019 Ukrainian presidential elections after Zelensky and Poroshenko, accused Ukraines Western partners of trying to control Kyiv through Nabu and Sapo. Aside from co-opting once potent opposition forces, Zelensky has also concentrated power in the hands of his unelected advisor Andriy Yermak and taken insufficient action against the harassment of anti-corruption whistleblowers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January 2024, Transparency International Ukraine warned that attacks on journalists are becoming systematic and in April 2024, 16 Ukrainian human rights organisations published a manifesto against these practices. These heavy-handed actions are fuelling the perception that Zelensky is becoming increasingly power-hungry and authoritarian. The slogans We chose Europe, not autocracy and My father did not die for this on the streets of Kyiv exemplify this trend. Even if the SBU finds hard evidence of pro-Russian activity in Nabu, which is plausible given Opposition Bloc MP Fedir Khrystenkos alleged networks, Zelensky will find it hard to play down concerns that he is exercising power for its sake. Zelenskys support for Bill 12414 is an unforced error that threatens Ukraines greatest strength: its unflappable wartime resolve. 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. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Ukrainians are taking to the streets to protest a new law they worry will undermine the work of two key anti-corruption agencies, by eroding the independence of bodies meant to provide a check on power. Discontent over the law led to the first major demonstration against the government in more than three years of war, marking the most serious fracture yet in the national unity that has helped Ukraine resist Russias invasion. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended the law as necessary to remove Russian influence from the fight against corruption, though he didnt provide examples of such interference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law adds new oversight for anti-corruption agencies Ukraines parliament passed a bill on Tuesday that brings the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) under the authority of the prosecutor general, who is a presidential appointee. Zelenskyy signed it into law, even as thousands took to the streets asking him to scrap it. Critics say it could give Zelenskyys circle greater influence over investigations. It comes after Zelenskyy carried out a reshuffle of his wartime Cabinet, a move also widely viewed as consolidating power with his inner circle. Before the bill was signed, the agencies warned that, if it took effect, the head of SAPO will become a nominal figure, while NABU will lose its independence and turn into a subdivision of the prosecutor generals office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NABU investigates corruption cases involving top officials, while SAPO supervises these investigations and prosecutes cases in court. The law has unleashed criticism of the government Ukraine has a robust tradition of pro-democracy protests, with street demonstrations twice resulting in political upheavals. In fact, the two agencies in question were established after the 2014 Maidan revolution, which ousted then-President Viktor Yanukovych, Ukraines pro-Moscow leader who was accused of corruption on a massive scale, stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from the government. His corruption was so vast that ordinary Ukrainians were aghast when they toured the grounds of his lavish mansion and discovered his collection of expensive cars and even a private zoo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, however, rallies have largely focused on the return of prisoners of war or missing people. But Tuesday's demonstrations trained public outrage on the government, with some calling the law a greater blow to morale than even routine Russian drone and missile attacks. A mood of anger and frustration among the war-weary Ukrainians prevailed in the crowd. Some protesters accused Ukraines leadership of prioritizing loyalty and personal connections over the fight against corruption. Ukraine has far fewer resources than Russia in this war, said Ihor Lachenkov, a blogger and activist who urged people to join the protest through his social media platforms, which reach more than 1.5 million followers. If we misuse them, or worse, allow them to end up in the pockets of thieves, our chances of victory diminish. All our resources must go toward the fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protests have raised questions about the state of democracy in Ukraine one of the values it is fighting for in the war with Russia. When a spectacle is staged and pushed through in 24 hours for everyone to swallow, that is not justice, former Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on Instagram. The government defends the move In his address Tuesday night, Zelenskyy insisted that the countrys anti-corruption infrastructure will continue to function after it is cleansed of any Russian influence. He alleged that some cases had been allowed to languish and the targets of some investigations never brought to justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For years, officials who have fled Ukraine have been casually living abroad for some reason in very nice countries and without legal consequences and this is not normal, he said in a Telegram post. On Wednesday, he gathered the heads of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies and the prosecutor general. He announced that a detailed action plan will be developed within two weeks to ensure the system is more effective and fair. We see what people expect from state institutions to ensure justice and the effectiveness of each institution, he said on Telegram. Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko dismissed concerns about the agencies independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I can promise that I will not misuse these rights, he said. I could sign this promise in blood, if necessary. Fighting corruption is crucial to Ukraine's future The Ukrainian branch of Transparency International criticized the law, saying it undermines one of the most significant reforms since the 2014 uprising and that it damages trust with international partners. Fighting entrenched corruption is crucial to Ukraines bid to join the European Union and maintain access to billions of dollars in Western aid. In a post on X, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos called the new law a serious step back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The action against the agencies comes only a month after the NABU launched a criminal investigation into thenDeputy Prime Minister Oleksii Chernyshov one of the highest-profile corruption cases since Zelenskyy took office. Chernyshov has denied the allegations but was removed from his post during last weeks government reshuffle. It also follows the arrest of two NABU officials on suspicion of having ties to Russia by Ukraines Security Service. Countries that violate climate commitments under international agreements could, under certain circumstances, be held legally accountable, according to a ruling by the highest UN court on Wednesday. Countries that take no or insufficient measures to protect the planet from climate change are in breach of international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague said in an official legal opinion. Laying out its reasoning in the case, the court said in a press release that "the well-established rule of international law that the conduct of any organ of a State must be regarded as an act of that State is applicable in the context of climate change." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It went on: "Failure of a State to take appropriate action to protect the climate system from greenhouse gas emissions - including through fossil fuel production, fossil fuel consumption, the granting of fossil fuel exploration licences or the provision of fossil fuel subsidies - may constitute an internationally wrongful act which is attributable to that State." Breaching climate obligations could "give rise to the entire panoply of legal consequences," the court said. "The Court is of the view that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is a precondition for the enjoyment of many human rights," it said in its summary opinion. The legal opinion is not binding but could, according to experts, influence climate processes worldwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the proceedings, representatives from 98 states and 12 organizations presented their arguments to the 15 judges at the court in The Hague. Legal opinion commissioned by UN General Assembly The initiative for the case before the ICJ was taken by Vanuatu, a South Pacific island nation facing existential threats from rising sea levels caused by global warming. For island states, it is a matter of survival, representatives of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) argued before the ICJ. In 2023, the UN General Assembly commissioned the court to prepare an opinion on potential legal consequences for states "where they, by their acts and omissions, have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This should be clarified particularly concerning small island developing states "which due to their geographical circumstances and level of development, are injured or specially affected by or are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change." Major economic states say Paris agreement is sufficient Major economies such as China and the United States, which account for the majority of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, reject legal obligations beyond existing agreements and refer to the provisions of the UN climate conventions and the Paris Climate Agreement. Germany also stated that the commitments outlined in those frameworks were sufficient. Legal representatives of developing countries argue that states are failing to meet their obligations and point to the disappointing outcomes of climate summits, including the one held in November 2024 in Baku. They are seeking to ensure that the world's biggest polluters are obliged to reduce CO2 emissions and provide reparations. The top court of the United Nations on Wednesday declared that countries have an obligation to combat climate change and that a failure to do so could constitute a violation of international law. Judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) adopted an advisory opinion on the subject that emphasized the duty of states to use all means at their disposal to minimize harm to the environment. The opinion tasked governments with cooperating on this mission, noting that a breach by a state of any obligations identified in the advisory constitutes an internationally wrongful act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Potential consequences of such violations could include full reparation to injured states in the form of restitution, compensation and satisfaction, the document stated. In remarks prior to reading out the opinion, ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa stressed that the climate questions raised in the proceedings represent more than a legal problem. They concern an existential problem of planetary proportions that imperil all forms of life and the very health of our planet, Iwasawa said. The judges delivered their non-binding opinion with unanimous support, marking just the fifth time the body has done so in its 80-year history, according to the UN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The advisory ruling followed years of lobbying from island nations, arguing that they were at the mercy of climate-induced sea-level rise. The UN General Assembly decided to ask the ICJ for its advisory opinion in 2023, in a case led by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. International law, whose authority has been invoked by the General Assembly has an important but ultimately limited role in resolving this problem, Iwasawa said on Wednesday. A complete solution to this daunting and self-inflicted problem requires the contribution of all fields of human knowledge, he added. While the advisory opinion emphasizes the responsibility of nations to act with due diligence to combat climate change, it also recognizes that those duties are differentiated among countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When taken as a whole, however, these efforts should collectively contribute to limiting global warming by 1.5 degrees Celsius, as agreed upon in the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, per the opinion. In a press conference following the ICJs delivery, Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatus climate change minister, expressed satisfaction not only with the opinion, but also with the fact that it was unanimous. It really points to the critical nature of this issue, and also the consensus of most people in the world that we need to really address it as a matter of urgency, Regenvanu said. Describing the ruling as a landmark moment, the minister added that the evidence is clear, and we can see it everywhere, that climate change is affecting everybody, all over the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ilan Kiloe of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Secretariat a regional government agency in Vanuatu added that area residents have already suffered forced relocation and have lost much of what defines us as Pacific Islanders. And climate change has only gotten started, Kiloe said. Vishal Prasad, campaign director for Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, described the opinion as a lifeline and an opportunity to protect all that we hold dear. This ruling is also a testament to the resolve of people everywhere, those at the front lines who chose not to allow the decisions of a minority of countries to dictate the future of the global majority, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ICJ opinion, Prashad added, provides countries with a foundation to build a more sustainable and equitable future. As far as wrongful acts and reparations are concerned, attorney Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh said she believes that the court has made it crystal clear that injured states could now raise a whole range of defenses against polluters. It really strengthens the legal basis for such claims going forward, added Wewerinke-Singh, an international lawyer at Blue Ocean Law who served as legal counsel for Vanuatus case. She expressed hope that many polluting states would now prefer to voluntarily pay off reparations, rather than engaging in litigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responding to questions about the United States, a major polluter that does not recognize the ICJs legal authority, Wewerinke-Singh said that as a U.N. member, the U.S. does, however, accept the courts advisory function. Since the U.N. General Assembly, including the U.S., requested the ICJs opinion, the U.S. is also supposed to follow this advice as long as it remains part of the U.N., she explained. In the aftermath of the ruling, Regenvanu Vanuatus climate change minister said that next steps will involve taking the ICJ ruling back to the General Assembly and pursuing a resolution to support its implementation. We hope to set a new status quo and provide the structural changes needed to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and a sustainable future, Regenvanu said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let this be the moment when we see a change and the world turns its face towards climate justice, and this legal clarity provides us with the moral courage to take this forward, the minister 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. UNITED NATIONS (AP) The U.N. Security Council urged the 193 United Nations member nations on Tuesday to use all possible means to settle disputes peacefully. The U.N. chief said that is needed now more than ever as he pointed to the horror show in Gaza and conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Haiti and Myanmar. The vote was unanimous on a Pakistan-drafted resolution in the 15-member council. In urging greater efforts to pursue global peace, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the council: Around the world, we see an utter disregard for if not outright violations of international law as well as the U.N. Charter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is happening at a time of widening geopolitical divides and numerous conflicts, starting with Gaza, where starvation is knocking on every door as Israel denies the United Nations the space and safety to deliver aid and save Palestinian lives, Guterres said. Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians and aid staff as part of its war with Hamas and blames U.N. agencies for failing to deliver food it has allowed in. In conflicts worldwide, hunger and displacement are at record levels and security is pushed further out of reach by terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime, the secretary-general said. Diplomacy may not have always succeeded in preventing conflicts, violence and instability, Guterres said. But it still holds the power to stop them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resolution urges all countries to use the methods in the U.N. Charter to peacefully settle disputes, including negotiation, inquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial settlement, referral to regional arrangements or other peaceful means. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who chaired the meeting, cited the ongoing tragedies in Gaza and between Pakistan and India over Kashmir, one of the oldest disputes on the U.N. agenda, that need to be resolved peacefully. At the heart of almost all the conflicts across the globe is a crisis of multilateralism; a failure, not of principles but of will; a paralysis, not of institutions but of political courage, he said. The Pakistani diplomat called for revitalizing trust in the U.N. system and ensuring equal treatment of all conflicts based on international law, not geopolitical expediency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea said the Trump administration supports the United Nations founding principles of saving succeeding generations from the scourge of war and working with parties to resolve disputes peacefully. Under President Donald Trumps leadership, she said, the U.S. has delivered deescalation between Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, and Congo and Rwanda. The U.S. calls on countries involved in conflicts to follow these examples, Shea said, singling out the war in Ukraine and Chinas unlawful claims in the South China Sea. The war in Ukraine must end, she said, and Russia must stop attacking civilians and fulfill its obligations under the U.N. Charter, which requires all member nations to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every other country. We call on other U.N. member states to stop providing Russia with the means to continue its aggression, Shea said. ___ A Worcester city councilor pleaded not guilty in Worcester District Court Wednesday to charges of interfering with and assaulting a police officer while she was protesting federal immigration agents while they were arresting a mother of three. District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj was charged with one misdemeanor count of assault and battery on a police officer and one common law violation for interfering with a police officer. She entered a not guilty plea and was released on her own personal recognizance. A motion to dismiss hearing is set for Sept. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exiting the court, Haxhiaj was greeted with cheers by a crowd of her supporters standing outside. I am resolute and unapologetic in maintaining my innocence, Haxhiaj told her supporters. The overwhelming number of Worcester residents and Americans across the country are opposed to armed masked men snatching our people off the streets and neighborhoods, terrifying mothers, children, fathers, families and whole communities. Haxhiajs charges stem from her actions when she protested Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as they were arresting Rosane Ferreira-De Oliveira, a 40-year-old Brazilian mother. Federal immigration officials claim Ferreira-De Oliveira entered the country illegally in August 2022, which led to ICE taking her into custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her lawyer, however, maintains the mother of three was paroled and allowed into the country by ICE as she pursued asylum. The arrest took place on Eureka Street the morning of May 8. About 30 people, including Haxhiaj, confronted, protested and yelled at the ICE agents demanding that they not take Ferreira-De Oliveira. Body camera footage shows chaotic scene Footage from body cameras that were worn by Worcester police officers show Haxhiaj walking towards the ICE agents who apprehended Ferreira-De Oliveira. The councilor can be seen grabbing the 40-year-olds arm and pleading with the agents to not take her. Two of the ICE agents flung Haxhiaj off of Ferreira-De Oliveira. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage from Officer Shauna McGuirks body camera shows Haxhiaj and Ferreira-De Oliveiras daughter, Augusta Clara Moura, standing by a gold SUV. ICE agents had put Ferreira-De Oliveira inside of the vehicle during the arrest. McGuirks footage has audio of the agents and McGuirk telling both Haxhiaj and Clara Moura to move away from the SUV. McGuirk then grabbed Clara Mouras arm, telling her she needed to come on. Clara Moura looked down at her arm and said, No, no, no, no. The officer then let go of her arm and an agent warned Clara Moura and Haxhiaj that they both could be charged. Haxhiaj responded, I dont understand, and told McGuirk that she had the right to be there as a district councilor. Eureka Street is part of Worcesters District 5, which Haxhiaj represents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGurik then pulled Haxhiaj away from the vehicle by her back, resulting in Haxhiajs hands pushing against her body. Do not touch me! Haxhiaj yelled as she was pulled away from the SUV. Just four days after the ICE operation, Worcester police filed a criminal complaint against Haxhiaj. Bossolt requested a show-cause hearing on three charges against Haxhiaj, according to the application. Bossolt asked that the councilor be charged with two counts of assault and battery on a police officer and one count of interfering with a police officer. Haxhiaj pushed P.O. McGuirk in the chest, the filing reads. Haxhiaj pulled P.O. McGuirks arm as she was making an arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 4, a criminal complaint charged Haxhiaj with one misdemeanor count of assault and battery on a police officer and one common law violation for interfering with a police officer, according to police records. In a post on BlueSky, Haxhiaj responded to the charges by defending her actions. I am a mother, an immigrant and elected leader who attempted, along with other Worcester residents, to protect a traumatized young person, two mothers and an infant, Haxhiaj said in response to the charges. I did the humane thing to do in this situation, nothing more, nothing less. Two other arrests on Eureka Street In the midst of the chaos on Eureka Street, Worcester police officers also arrested Ferreira-De Oliveiras teenage daughter, who reportedly kicked the passenger side of the SUV as it drove off, according to a police report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officers ran after the daughter, pushing her down to the ground as they arrested her. Haxhiaj approached Lt. J.L. Bossolt on the sidewalk and criticized the polices use of force in the arrest. All you needed to do was to have one of us hold her and contain her, Haxhiaj told Bossolt. You didnt have to take her. Its use of force that is unnecessary. The daughter was charged with reckless endangerment of a child, disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, according to the Worcester Police Department. In a statement on May 16, Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier announced that the Worcester Police Department requested the court dismiss the case against Ferreira-De Oliveiras daughter. It is not known whether the court has dismissed the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police officers also arrested Ashley Spring, at the time a candidate for school committee, after they sprayed water on a police officer. Spring was charged on May 9 with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon that being the unknown liquid along with charges of assault and battery on a police officer, disorderly conduct and interfering with police officers. ICE and Worcester police The arrest on Eureka Street has left some residents in the city enraged over the ICE and the police departments actions. Protests against ICE and the police department have occurred both inside and outside of Worcester City Hall, with protesters accusing the police department of assisting ICE. The Worcester Police Department maintains, however, that they did not assist ICE and that their task on Eureka Street was to keep the peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were there for traffic. Were there to preserve the peace and thats it, Worcester Police Chief Paul Sauicer said during a Human Rights Commission meeting in June. We had no idea of what the person was even arrested for. During the meeting, Saucier acknowledged that there needed to be better communication from the police department in situations similar to the Eureka Street arrest. He told the commission that the department is developing a plan to improve communication with the public during ICE operations. While the plan is still in development, Saucier said the plan could include having a member of the public serve as a point of contact during ICE arrests. This person would be given a lanyard and would receive information from a Worcester police officer. The plan would also involve having the first police officer on the scene of an ICE operation be responsible for speaking with and identifying the federal agent in charge, according to Saucier. That way, everything isnt just dispersed willy nilly, Saucier said. Were going to have a point of contact and were working on the arrangements for that right now. More Worcester Stories Read the original article on MassLive. In July 2025, clashes between the Druze religious minority and Sunni Arabs backed by government-affiliated forces led to hundreds of deaths in Sweida province in southern Syria. Israel later launched dozens of airstrikes in support of the Druze. This eruption of violence was an eerie reminder of what had unfolded in March 2025 when supporters of the fallen regime led by Bashar Assad, an Alawite, targeted security units. In retaliation, militias affiliated with the newly formed government in Damascus carried out indiscriminate killings of Alawites. While exact figures remain difficult to verify, more than 1,300 individuals, most of them Alawites, lost their lives. In some cases, entire families were summarily executed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the Syrian government promised an investigation into the atrocities, home invasions, kidnappings of Alawite women and extrajudicial executions of Alawite men continue. The violence in Sweida also bore a sectarian dimension, pitting members of a religious minority against armed groups aligned with the countrys Sunni majority. A key difference, however, involved the active Israeli support for the Druze and the U.S. efforts to broker a ceasefire. Post-Assad Syria has seen promising developments, including the lifting of international sanctions, a resurgence of civil society and the end of diplomatic isolation. There was even a limited rapprochement with the main Kurdish political party controlling northeastern Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The persistent violence targeting the Alawites and, to a more limited extent, the Druze, starkly contrasts with these trends. As a scholar of religious minorities and the Middle East, I argue that the current political situation reflects their historical persecution and marginalization. History of the Alawites The Alawites emerged as a distinct religious community in the 10th century in the region of the Latakia coastal mountains, which today make up northwestern Syria. Although their beliefs have some commonalities with Shiite Islam, the Alawites maintain their own unique religious leadership and rituals. Under the Ottoman regime in the late 19th century, they benefited from reforms such as the expansion of educational opportunities and economic modernization, while gaining geographical and social mobility. After Hafez Assad, the father of Bashar, came to power in a coup in 1970, he drew upon his Alawite base to reinforce his regime. Consequently, Alawites became disproportionately represented in the officer corps and intelligence services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the civil war, which began in 2011, their population was estimated at around 2 million, constituting roughly 10% of Syrias population. During the civil war, Alawite young men fighting for the regime suffered heavy casualties. However, most Alawites remained in Syria, while Sunni Arabs and Kurds were disproportionately displaced or became refugees. Members of the Alawite minority gather outside the Russian air base in Hmeimim, near Latakia in Syrias coastal region, on March 11, 2025, as they seek refuge there after violence and retaliatory killings in the area. AP Photo/Omar Albam Among Syrias minorities, two key factors make the Alawites most vulnerable to mass violence in post-Assad Syria. The first factor is that, like the Druze, Alawites have their own distinct beliefs that deviate from Sunni Islam. Their religious practices and teachings are often described as esoteric and remain mostly inaccessible to outsiders. In my 2024 book Liminal Minorities: Religious Difference and Mass Violence in Muslim Societies, I categorize the Alawites and Druze in Syria alongside Yezidis in Iraq, Alevis in Turkey and Bahais in Iran as liminal minorities religious groups subject to deep-seated stigmas transmitted across generations. These groups are often treated as heretics who split from Islam and whose beliefs and rituals are deemed beyond the pale of acceptance. For instance, according to Alawite beliefs, Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, is a divine manifestation of God, which challenges the idea of strict monotheism central to Sunni Islam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the perspective of Sunni orthodoxy, these groups beliefs have been a source of suspicion and disdain. A series of fatwas by prominent Sunni clerics from the 14th to the 19th century declared Alawites heretics. Resentment against the Alawites The second factor contributing to the Alawites vulnerability is the widespread perception that they were the main beneficiaries of the Assad regime, which engaged in mass murder against its own citizens. Although power remained narrowly concentrated under Assad, many Alawites occupied key positions in the security apparatus as well as the government. In todays political landscape where the central government remains weak and its control over various armed groups is limited, religious stigmatization and political resentment create fertile ground for mass violence targeting the Alawites. The massacres of March 2025 were accompanied by sectarian hate speech, including open calls for the extermination of the Alawites, both in the streets and on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While many Sunni Muslims in Syria also perceive the Druze as heretics, they maintained a greater degree of distance from the Assad regime and were less integrated into its security apparatus. Nonetheless, in recent months the situation deteriorated rapidly in the Druze heartland. The Druze militias and local Bedouin tribes engaged in heavy fighting in July 2025. Unlike the Alawites, the Druze received direct military assistance from Israel, which has its small but influential Druze population. This further complicates peaceful coexistence among religious groups in post-Assad Syria. A sober future Sunni Arab identity is central to the newly formed government in Damascus, which can come at the expense of religious and ethnic pluralism. However, it has incentives to rein in arbitrary violence against the Alawites and Druze. Projecting itself as a source of order and national unity helps the government internationally, both diplomatically and economically. Internally, however, the new government remains fractured and lacks effective control over vast swaths of territory. While it pays lip service to transitional justice, it is also cautious about being perceived as overly lenient toward individuals associated with the Assad regime and its crimes. Meanwhile, Alawite and Druze demands for regional autonomy continue to stoke popular Sunni resentments and risk triggering further cycles of instability and violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe that in a post-Assad Syria defined by fractured governance and episodic retribution, the Alawites as well as Druze are likely to face deepening marginalization. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Gunes Murat Tezcur, Arizona State University Read more: Gunes Murat Tezcur 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. Four families have joined a lawsuit against a now-closed school for students with disabilities and several Pierce County school districts. Outlined in documents filed with the Bethel, Federal Way, Tacoma and University Place school districts earlier this month, four former students at the Northwest School of Innovative Learning and their families allege that the districts and the now-shuttered school contributed to abusing students. The update comes after two families filed suit in April against Fairfax Behavioral Health, the parent company for the Northwest School of Innovative Learning, and the Tacoma and University Place school districts, outlining similar allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six families are now suing four districts along with the parent company of the Northwest School of Innovative Learning, also known as NW SOIL. The documents identifying the four additional students minors who The News Tribune is only identifying with their initials to protect their privacy echo allegations originally brought forward in the lawsuit filed in April. Families who were directed to enroll their children at NW SOIL, all alleged, among other things, that staff at the school unnecessarily restrained their children, isolated them in rooms with feces and urine and verbally abused students. They also alleged that the districts were either aware of NW SOILs reputation and recommended that students attend the school anyway or did not adequately address concerns from parents about the conditions at NW SOIL. In one instance, a staff member at the University Place School District allegedly recommended that student E.W. be enrolled at NW SOILs Tumwater campus because they knew of the poor conditions at NW SOILs Tacoma campus, which the staff member called unfit for children, according to documents. E.W., who was a student at NW SOIL in Tumwater from 2019 through 2020, allegedly experienced the same abuse at the Tumwater location, according to the documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jeff Loupas, deputy superintendent for the University Place School District, said in a statement to The News Tribune that the district is aware of the complaint and called the allegations very concerning. The safety and well being of all students, no matter where they attend school, is our first priority and greatest responsibility, Loupas said. Due to the sensitive and confidential nature of this matter, and to respect student and family privacy, we are unable to make further comments. Spokespeople for the Tacoma, Bethel and Federal Way school districts and Fairfax Hospital did not return a request for comment. Whitney Hill, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said its notable that the complaints outlined in the documents alleged the same issues excessive use of restraint, isolation rooms covered with urine and feces and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were pretty shocked and appalled by the levels of harm that these students are alleging, and how hard each of the parents of these students or guardians fought to get them out of Northwest SOIL, she told The News Tribune. NW SOIL closed in January 2024 after the state launched an investigation into private schools like NW SOIL, called nonpublic agencies: private schools that receive taxpayer dollars to educate students with disabilities who live in school district areas that cannot meet their needs, free of charge. The states investigation came after an investigation from the Seattle Times and ProPublica revealed enduring reports of abuse, excessive use of restraint and a lack of qualified staff. A bronze cast of "The Thinker" by French sculptor Auguste Rodin sits outside Grawemeyer Hall on the University of Louisville's campus. (Kentucky Lantern photo by McKenna Horsley) The University of Louisville is one of five universities the U.S. Department of Education says its investigating for discrimination over scholarships for undocumented and underrepresented students. The Department of Education specifically named UofLs Sagar Patagundi Scholarship that is intended to subsidize the cost of higher educationfor undergraduate DACA and undocumented students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The departments Office for Civil Rights investigation will determine whether these universities are granting scholarships only for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or undocumented students, according to a Wednesday news release. John Karman, a spokesman for UofL, said the university was just notified of this investigation yesterday and we are reviewing the claims. The University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University are also being investigated. Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for Civil Rights and an appointee of President Donald Trump, said the investigation is in line with Trumps wishes to put America first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are expanding our enforcement efforts to protect American students and lawful residents from invidious national origin discrimination of the kind alleged here, Trainor said in a statement. The Department of Education said it received complaints from the conservative organization Legal Insurrection Foundations Equal Protection Project about these scholarships. The investigation will also look into: University of Nebraska Omahas Dreamers Pathway Scholarship for students who are DACA or DACA-eligible and Nebraska residents who are seeking an undergraduate degree. University of Miamis U Dreamers Program, which is available to academically talented and admissible [DACA] and undocumented high school seniors and transfer students. University of Michigans Dreamer Scholarship, which is intended to support undocumented students or students with DACA status. Western Michigan Universitys WMU Undocumented/DACA Scholarship for undergraduate students who are ineligible to receive federal student aid due to an undocumented or DACA status. University of Louisvilles Dawn Wilson Scholarship for undergraduate LGBTQ+ students of color and the Louisville Tango Festival Scholarship for Latino/a/x and Hispanic students. University of Nebraska Omahas HDR Scholarship, which gives preferenceto underrepresented minority students. Western Michigan Universitys Elissa Gatlin Endowed Scholarship for African American, Native American or Hispanic American students. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The investigation focuses on the University of Miami's "U Dreamers Program The University of Miami is one of five universities being investigated by the U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights for allegedly violating federal civil rights laws in awarding scholarships to academically eligible students lacking permanent legal status. In a press release announcing the investigation the DOE specifically identified UMs U Dreamers Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The University of Miami did not immediately respond to the Florida Phoenixs request for comment. The University of Louisville, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Michigan, and Western Michigan University are also being investigated for scholarships awarded to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and students living in the state without permanent legal status. The investigations were launched based on complaints from the Equal Protection Project, part of the Legal Insurrection Foundation. On its website, EPP declares its devoted to the fair treatment of all persons without regard to race or ethnicity. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPP founder William A. Jacobson lauded the news of the investigation in the DOE press release. Protecting equal access to education includes protecting the rights of American-born students. At the Equal Protection Project, we are gratified that the Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights is acting on our complaints regarding scholarships that excluded American-born students. Discrimination against American-born students must not be tolerated, Jacobson said in the press release. The U Dreamers Program is the only scholarship at UM being investigated by the DOEs Office of Civil Rights. Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said the investigation reflects President Donald Trumps commitment to put America first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither the Trump Administrations America first policies nor the Civil Rights Act of 1964s prohibition on national origin discrimination permit universities to deny our fellow citizens the opportunity to compete for scholarships because they were born in the United States, he said in the statement. As we mark President Trumps historic six months back in the White House, we are expanding our enforcement efforts to protect American students and lawful residents from invidious national origin discrimination of the kind alleged here. The University of Miami is a private college. The Legislature this year repealed a 2014 law that allowed DACA recipients to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and community colleges. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) An unlicensed Greensboro care facility that a man disappeared from has been shut down, according to the Greensboro Police Department. Larry Burton, 74, is missing and was last seen at the HMF Family Home Care on Moody Street on July 3. 74-year-old Larry Darnell Burton (Greensboro Police Department) State officials believe this case may call for criminal charges. In a letter obtained by FOX8, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services formally urged the Guilford County District Attorneys Office to pursue criminal prosecution against the facility for operating without a license and neglecting Burton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, FOX8 was told by the facility administrator that the facility was independent housing. However, Burtons family said they were told the facility was a care home. He has his own home with three bedrooms. If he could go to an independent living facility, he could have just went home where my two sons could have helped him. He did not need to go to an independent living facility. That doesnt make sense, Burtons daughter Latonya Swift said. As Burtons only child, Swift is heartbroken and frustrated with so many questions unanswered. I spoke to my father via FaceTime the day he went missing I know how he is communicating and all of the above, that same day. I came today to get his wallet, and the hospital staff doesnt have his wallet, Swift said. Advertisement 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. A 66-year-old woman working at a Clay County youth academy is being charged with fraud after deputies say she lied about being a licensed mental health counselor prior to one cadets suicide. The Clay County Sheriffs Office says Gwendolyn Boney-Harris served as Deputy Director at the Florida Youth Challenge Academy (FLYCA), located at Camp Blanding. According to its website, the community-based National Guard program leads, trains and mentors at-risk 16-18 year old high school dropouts so that they may become successful adults and complete their education. On October 31, 2024, deputies responded to the academy regarding the reported suicide of a 16-year-old cadet. CCSO says Boney-Harris denied support services from the Transitional Trauma Team for the cadets who witnessed the incident, saying that she and the academys counseling department would handle their therapy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mother of the cadet told deputies that after a previous mental health hospitalization, Boney-Harris told her that the physicians recommendation of after-discharge telehealth appointments for her daughter were unnecessary, and that she would perform the counseling sessions herself. An investigation into Boney-Harris began in November, after detectives say they received a tip that Boney-Harris did not hold a valid license. A Florida Department of Health investigator confirmed to deputies that the suspects license as a mental health counselor intern expired in early 2022, and that she has never been licensed as a therapist. Boney-Harris had worked in multiple roles at FLYCA over more than a decade, according to CCSO, including as platoon counselor and lead counselor. On Tuesday night, authorities served an arrest warrant at Boney-Harriss home in Green Cove Springs. She was taken into custody without incident and later released on her own recognizance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We reached out to the communications department at the Florida Youth Challenge Academy for comment. We received the following statement from the Florida National Guard: The Florida National Guard is aware of the recent arrest of Gwendolyn Boney Harris, former Deputy Director of the Florida Youth Challenge Academy. Ms. Boney Harris completed the required vetting process through the Department of Juvenile Justice prior to beginning employment with FLYCA in March 2011, and resigned from her position as the Deputy Director in December 2024. The Florida National Guard will continue to cooperate with law enforcement and the State Attorney as needed as the criminal case proceeds. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] BELLEVILLE, Ill. Cold case breakthroughs were punctuated Tuesday with hugs between grieving family members and a college intern who helped get answers. One case involved Jeanette Smiths son, Truman Lee Smith, who was murdered in February 2011. You know theyre working on it because they tell me theyre working on it, and I believe them, she said. But its still hard not knowing who did this and why. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Truman was shot to death while on the job making a delivery in East St. Louis. The guy was attempting to rob him, but he never got anything, Jeanette said. He didnt get a penny because Truman Lee didnt have anything. Truman Smith was 40. You just have to stay after it and hope for a break and this is an example of that, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Kelly said a cold case internship program with students from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville helped identify Smiths alleged killer. Its a new way to amplify the resources, Kelly said. We have to have a force multiplier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alan Davis, 34, has been charged with first-degree murder in Truman Smiths death. The St. Clair County States Attorneys Office is handling the prosecution. Im grateful, Jeanette said. Another case may be tied to notorious serial killer Maury Travis. Police evidence of Travis killings included the killers own video of unidentified murder victims, like a woman handcuffed to a basement pole, who remains a Jane Doe. Investigators say three other Jane Does have been identified by this student cold case project: Kelly Johnson, who was found near Mascoutah in 2002. Crystal Lay, who was found near Highland in 2002. Carol Jean Hemphill, who was found in Columbia, Illinois, in 2002. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes these cases dont wrap up in 52 minutes like they do in a television show, Kelley said. The ISP director said every piece of the puzzle is crucial in reaching justice. Its not over yet, theres still a long road to go, Jeanette said. Her sons accused killer will be arraigned on Friday. She feels like her sons voice is finally being heard. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) Officials with the University of New Mexico are proposing a major expansion for the school of medicine. The Executive Vice President of UNM Health Sciences Mike Richards went before state lawmakers, arguing an investment into the medical school is essential to getting more physicians in the state. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the university proposed to double the size of the school of medicine, at an estimated construction cost of $600 million. They worked with the legislature to create a business plan. At that time, $30 million was appropriated for planning and design. The main educational building that supports our school of medicine, which is Fitz Hall, is nearing its end of life and has to be replaced so well have the appropriate venue to be able to expand and train health care professionals, said Richards. Now, officials say those plans prove proposals should continue being supported by the state, saying it would allow for expanded education programs and higher student enrollment. This doubling of the size of our school of medicine over the next ten years, and doubling of all the health professional programs associated with it, is clearly within our reach and needed by the state of New Mexico, Richards said. The expansion comes as a nearly 700,000 square foot critical care tower is just a few months away from opening this fall, offering more employment opportunities for medical professionals. That sets us on a trajectory where over the next ten years, as we build out that infrastructure, well see about a 70% increase in our in-patient care volume, said Richards. Richards said, while their big focus is on education new providers, the state also needs to work on recruiting and retention. Insuring that we have things like the compacts and that our licensure mechanisms are supportive and we create things that attract individuals to want to come and practice, Richards said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials predict the medical school expansion could result in an additional 54 physicians completing school and practicing in the state per year. The university said construction of the proposed new facility on Lomas and University would be completed by 2030. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EAST VILLAGE, Manhattan (PIX11) A block in the East Village has become a makeshift hub for dozens of e-bikes used by migrant delivery workers, and its causing a stir among local residents. On 11th Street between First Avenue and Avenue A, the sidewalks are lined with e-bikes, sometimes parked shoulder to shoulder. For many of the delivery workers, its the safest place theyve found to store their bikes while waiting for the next order or even overnight. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is so much more going on. This is the least of it, seriously, said longtime resident Alisson, whos lived on the block since 1981. I have no problem with any of this. But not everyone agrees. Some neighbors say the issue goes beyond clutter. They are vehicles. People are getting into accidents, getting hit by them, the batteries exploding, said Slawomir, who believes the e-bike situation needs tighter regulation. Despite signs posted to prevent parking, dozens of bikes were lined up Tuesday evening. The riders, mostly young migrants, waited nearby for their next delivery. Some told PIX11 they feel safer parking there because they watch out for each other. Eighteen-year-old Thierno Mamoudou Barry, who immigrated from Guinea last year, is one of them. Hes finishing his GED while delivering food. If you park some place, the people take your bike. But here, there are too many bikes here, he said, adding that some riders stay overnight to protect them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the block may provide a sense of safety for the workers, frustrations are growing for others. I know my landlord is trying to start a petition to get rid of them, said Zach Kaplan, a nearby resident. Hes also concerned about the rising trash on the block. The city has taken notice. Mayor Eric Adams recently proposed reducing the speed limit for e-bikes to 15 miles per hour in hopes of curbing dangerous riding. PIX11 reached out to the Mayors office specifically about the situation on 11th Street, but has not yet received a response. Yaakov Lipsker, who runs a nearby electric bike rental business, says the city needs to step in with clearer regulations, especially for storage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of those bikes end up stolen. Not safe at all, their batteries and stuff like that, Lipsker said. All of our bikes have dedicated spots to be stored overnight or when they are not being used. Some neighbors are clearly fed up. If I were the neighbor, I would be pissed, the bikes blocking the sidewalk and stuff, I wouldnt want that, said one passerby named Mike. But others, like Liam, believe the criticism runs deeper than just congestion. I think people look too harshly on delivery workers in general, he said. Unfortunately, people are very racist if this were a bunch of white people, I think thered be more empathy. But because its people of color, immigrants, working-class folks, it becomes a problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of now, this East Village block remains an unsanctioned base for delivery workers and a flashpoint for debate over how New York City manages its ever-growing e-bike economy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Have more information on this topic? Send us a tip. In July 2025, a claim spread online that the FBI had a spreadsheet containing every mention of U.S. President Donald Trump within the agency's records of its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The rumor spread on platforms such as X and Reddit amid backlash faced by the Trump administration in response to the Department of Justice's July 7 announcement that it found "no incriminating 'client list'" kept by Epstein after a "systematic review" of the financier's files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Not only does an Excel spreadsheet of Trump mentions in the Epstein files exist, but so do training videos explaining how to flag the files for Trump mentions. Plus, the number of people who had access is larger than previously known," one Facebook post said. This allegation originated with letters sent by Sen. D*ck Durbin, an Illinois Democrat, to top officials from the Department of Justice and the FBI, in which Durbin said information his office reviewed indicated 1,000 FBI agents were instructed to "flag" documents related to Epstein that mention Trump. Following Durbin's letters, independent journalist Allison Gill corroborated the senator's account and said anonymous sources from the FBI told her they were directed to log mentions of Trump in the Epstein files in an Excel spreadsheet. While Gill could not share the identities of her sources for verification purposes nor could she share the purported Trump-Epstein log she told Snopes via a phone call that she once worked in the Department of Veterans Affairs as a hiring supervisor, and said she used her knowledge from that work to review government employment documents in order to confirm her sources' legitimacy. On July 21, 2025, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said she did not believe the White House was aware of any efforts to flag Trump's name in the Epstein files and directed inquires about it to the FBI. The Justice Department also directed inquires to the FBI. In an email response, the FBI declined to comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until Snopes can review the purported spreadsheet or spreadsheets in question, we cannot rate the truthfulness of this claim but here's what we know about their reported existence: Durbin's letters On July 18, 2025, Durbin, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent letters pressing for more information about Trump administration's review of the Epstein investigation files to Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino. In the letters, Durbin said his office learned FBI personnel "were instructed to 'flag' any records in which President Trump was mentioned" during a review of the Epstein files between mid-March and the end of March. The language used to describe this alleged event was the exact same in each letter. Here's what Durbin's letters said (emphasis ours): According to information my office received, Attorney General Bondi then pressured the FBI to put approximately 1,000 personnel in its Information Management Division (IMD), including the Record/Information Dissemination Section (RIDS), which handles all requests submitted by the public under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act, on 24- hour shifts to review approximately 100,000 Epstein-related records in order to produce more documents that could then be released on an arbitrarily short deadline. This effort, which reportedly took place from March 14 through the end of March, was haphazardly supplemented by hundreds of FBI New York Field Office personnel, many of whom lacked the expertise to identify statutorily protected information regarding child victims and child witnesses or properly handle FOIA requests. My office was told that these personnel were instructed to "flag" any records in which President Trump was mentioned. Notably, in 2002, Mr. Trump said of Mr. Epstein, "I've known Jeff for 15 years. Terrific guy, He's a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side." Just yesterday, it was reported that the Department previously reviewed a "leather-bound album" comprised of dozens of letters from Mr. Epstein's friends in celebration of his 50th birthday in 2003. The letters were collected by Mr. Epstein's partner Ghislaine Maxwell and included one from President Trump that allegedly "contains several lines of typewritten text framed by the outline of a naked woman, which appears to be hand-drawn with a heavy marker and the future president's signature is a squiggly 'Donald' below her waist." (Snopes' investigation into The Wall Street Journal's report about Epstein's birthday cards that Durbin referenced above can be found here.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An aide in Durbin's office told NBC News that the senator's office received the information from a "protected FBI whistleblower disclosure." We reached out to Durbin to confirm NBC News' reporting and ask for more information; Durbin's office said in an emailed response that it could provide nothing but the senator's news release announcing the letters. ABC News also reported earlier, in March, that anonymous sources said officials enlisted "as many as a thousand FBI agents" to review the FBI's Epstein materials, corroborating information in the letters from Durbin. A 'master list' of Trump mentions On July 20, 2025, independent journalist Allison Gill published a report with the headline "The Epstein Cover-Up at the FBI." She reported that after she learned about Durbin's claim about the 1,000 FBI personnel who reviewed the Epstein files, she posted a call-out on Bluesky requesting those employees reach out to her. Gill told Snopes she spoke with six former FBI and DOJ employees to produce her report, which largely aligned with the account from Durbin's office. In addition to corroborating Durbin's letters, Gill alleged analysts logged mentions of Trump in Excel spreadsheets (emphasis ours): First, approximately 1,000 personnel in the Information Management Division (IMD) and the FBI New York Field Office were assigned to this task, confirming the whistleblower account made to Senator Durbin's office. I can also confirm that a log exists tracking the mentions of Donald Trump in the files, and that there were approximately 100,000 files containing roughly 300,000 pages. Individual analysts were told to flag mentions of Trump by document and page number by logging them in an Excel spreadsheet, then they'd hand in their spreadsheet at the end of their (sometimes 24 or even 48-hour) shift. But it's important to note that the agents were not told to flag Trump until later in a process that began mid-March. Gill also described an ever-changing list of instructions purportedly provided to the analysts, before the agents were finally told "to keep a spreadsheet of instances when Trump was mentioned" that was turned into a master list of Trump mentions: After the spreadsheets of mentions of Trump were handed in, they were stitched together in one master list. I was not able to learn how many mentions of Donald Trump were on that master list. As far as content, there was one confirmed mention of Donald Trump in the files reviewed by an analyst who again spoke on the condition of anonymity. Beyond that, there were other instances of Trump appearing in the files, but the number of times and to what extent is unknown. But the log exists. According to Gill, alongside the spreadsheets, "video exists of trainers explaining the process of flagging instances of Donald Trump appearing in the files, and those videos went out on unclassified networks within the bureau." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more Snopes fact-checks and reporting on Trump and Epstein's relationship, see our collection here. Sources: Department of Justice, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. FBI Memo, July 2025. 7 July 2025, www.justice.gov/opa/media/1407001/dl?inline. Accessed 22 July 2025. "Durbin Presses Bondi, Patel, Bongino on Rifts between DOJ, FBI, White House on Epstein Files | U.S. Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois." Senate.gov, 18 July 2025, www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/durbin-presses-bondi-patel-bongino-on-rifts-between-doj-fbi-white-house-on-epstein-files. Accessed 22 July 2025. Egwuonwu, Nnamdi. "FBI Personnel Were Told to Flag Epstein Files Mentioning Trump, Senate Democrat Says." NBC News, 19 July 2025, www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/fbi-personnel-jeffrey-epstein-files-mentioning-trump-dick-durbin-says-rcna219699. Accessed 22 July 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Faulders, Katherine, et al. "DOJ Pushes FBI to Review, Release More Epstein Files amid Mounting Pressure from Trump Supporters: Sources." ABC News, 20 Mar. 2025, abcnews.go.com/US/doj-pushes-fbi-review-release-epstein-files-amid/story?id=119982513. Accessed 22 July 2025. Gill, Allison. "The Epstein Cover-up at the FBI." Muellershewrote.com, The Breakdown, 20 July 2025, www.muellershewrote.com/p/the-epstein-cover-up-at-the-fbi. Accessed 22 July 2025. Newsweek. "WH Reacts to Report FBI Flagged Trump in Epstein Files." Www.youtube.com, 21 July 2025, www.youtube.com/shorts/YlyVK6YAZG8. Accessed 22 July 2025. Using psychedelics to treat or and even cure depression. Thats what new studies are showing is possible. Since the Seattle City Council passed a resolution last month showing unanimous support for decriminalizing the personal use, growing and gifting of things like magic mushrooms, people are sharing their experiences. KIRO7s Deedee Sun spoke with people who say psychedelics have changed their lives, including a mom who microdoses psychedelic mushrooms regularly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others are showing their home cultivation systems used to grow magic mushrooms right in their Seattle apartments. Dana Phillips, 32, is mom to two girls. She lives in Skagit County and microdoses psychedelic mushrooms regularly somewhere from every few days to every few weeks. We powder our mushrooms and put it in a little capsule, Phillips said, pulling a brown pill out of her bag. If Im feeling stressed out or anxious that day, I take a little microdose, she said. A lot of people would be surprised to hear a mom is microsoding on mushrooms, KIRO7s Deedee Sun said. Yes, oh definitely. And thats part of the reason why I havent really shared my story, Phillips said. There is a lot of stigma behind psychedelics in general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 1960s and counterculture movement gave psychedelics a bad rep. Mushrooms and LSD were labeled as dangerous party drugs that could melt your mind. And with the launch of the War on Drugs during the Nixon Administration, studies on psychedelics were banned and any emerging research from the time were set aside. Now, all of that is changing. More studies are being conducted from by major universities on the therapeutic possibilities of psychedelics, and the research is showing overwhelmingly positive results. In a recent Johns Hopkins study, researchers found two doses of psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, produce rapid and large reductions in depressive symptoms. The patients were also guided by therapists. The study found most participants showed improvement, and half were still in remission four weeks later. A NYU study found cancer patients experiencing challenges like depression and anxiety, showed mental health benefits even four years after treatment with magic mushrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phillips said she has been struggling with depression for the past decade. Her mental health declined after an abusive relationship. My first major boyfriend sexually abused me. It was pretty intense, Phillips said. A lot of mental abuse. She got out of that relationship and met her husband. But after the birth of her first child, the depression came roaring back. " I actually got to a point where I was having really, really hard thoughts about not wanting to exist. So it was really tough for me to even move throughout my day and see that the people who loved me actually loved me and cared for me, Phillips said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said while therapy helped, the depression never went away. Then it worsened again after her second pregnancy. I got to a point where I was journaling things like, oh I dont know if I can stay in my relationship because it was just being torn apart from my emotions, Phillips said. Thats when she and her husband started researching psychedelics -- like magic mushrooms -- as an option for treating depression. We realized theres a lot of research and studies, Phillips said. A quick search and youll find long lists of videos on YouTube from TED Talks to videos from universities -- many of them scientists explaining how psylocibin, the active compound that makes mushrooms magic, can impact the mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With psylocibin treatment, we were seeing immediate reductions in depressive symptoms, immediate relief that last for months without side effects, said Dr. Rosalind Watts, in a TED Talk. Watts was a key researcher in a study on depression launched by Imperial College in London. That treatment produces rapid and large reduction in depressive symptoms, with most patients studied, said Dr. Ronald Griffiths, with the Johns Hopkins psylocibin study. For Phillips, on this past Mothers Day, her husband surprised her with magic mushrooms. I was really nervous. And I was like okay, Phillips said. They blitzed mushrooms -- not a microdose, but whats called a mega or hero dose into a smoothie, drank it, and waited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What the first effects you started noticing? Sun asked. It probably take about 20-ish minutes. And you really just start to feel like - you know when you get really big butterflies and nerves? You kind of start to get that all over your body. And everyone is different, Phillips said. The research studies are guided by therapists, but Dana was doing this on her own with her husband. I was really afraid of what I was going to find in there. Because I knew psychedelics help you open up and look at your own consciousness, Phillips said. Dana says the experience was profound - and immediate. Scroll down to continue reading More news from KIRO 7 DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I processed through all of my emotional, abusive, traumatic - super traumatic relationships I had had throughout my 20s. And I was able to see them from such a different perspective. I was able to actually able to forgive myself for putting me in those situations, Phillips said. My life is completely changed. I wont ever look at my depression in the same way ever again, she said. If it sounds far-fetched to you - maybe a bit too magical - heres the theory on how it works. Scientists believe conditions like depression and anxiety, and even PTSD and addiction, travel across neurological paths in your brain. The thought patterns become ingrained and hard to break. One idea is that psychedelics can break those patterns and allow neural networks to connect in ways people cant achieve by themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I remember telling my husband, oh my gosh I just feel so alive. And hes like youre back! Thank you for coming back to me. Because he was worried that I was getting lost in my darkness again. It makes me want to cry right now, Phillips said. Its not what I wanted for Mothers Day, but its exactly what I needed, she said. Phillips experience treating her depression is considered illegal. But now in Seattle, City Council has unanimously passed a resolution supporting decriminalization. The resolution applies to most entheogens -- or naturally occurring psychedelics from plants and fungi. It says the the investigation, arrest, and prosecution of anyone engaging in entheogen-related activities should be among the city of Seattles lowest enforcement priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes possessing, taking, gifting, or growing these substances. There are not very many resolutions that pass unanimously and we were extremely excited, said Ben Sercombe, a Seattle resident who volunteers with Decrim Nature Seattle. The grassroots group has been fighting to get psychedelics decriminalized for years . Other cities like Washington D.C.; Denver; Oakland, CA; and Cambridge, MA have all decriminalized psychedelics in some form. The state of Oregon has even legalized psilocybin therapy. Detroit voters just decriminalized entheogens in a ballot measure this election. Sercombe says getting the growing part included in city councils resolution was critical. We see that as something thats absolutely important because we know that if this was just through a medical model, not a lot of people can afford $2,000 treatments and that limits the scope of who can have access to these medicines, Sercombe said. Hes embracing Seattles new stance and showed KIRO7 how hes setting up a psychedelic mushroom grow. I wanted to show my face and let people know a little more about the process about growing because its not this big bad scary drug that I think a lot of people maybe associate with it, Sercombe said. He used mushroom spores - essentially the fungis seeds - and started growing them jars of wheat berries. The mushrooms spores are legal to buy online because they dont contain the active compound in magic mushrooms - psilocybin. This is mycelium which basically means the mushrooms roots have colonized this jar of grain, he said. Then its time to actually grow the mushrooms. Sercombe mixed the jar of mycelium with something the mushrooms could continue to grow in. What we have is sterilized substrate, the coyer, Sercombe said. He said it would take about a month before the psychedelic mushrooms would start to grow. Sercombe said psychedelic mushrooms changed his life. He used to suffer from depression and anxiety and took an anti-depressant called Celexa. What I found was, anti-depressants werent working for me, Sercombe said. It was in college and it just made me feel so dull to the world. I remember just feeling like - something had happened that was pretty traumatic in my life and I just remember not being able to feel anything. And the inverse of that, if something happy would happen, I wouldnt feel that happy. It was just like my emotions were muted, he said. He says a psilocybin trip opened his eyes. Instead of shielding you from a problem it exposes you to the problem. So youre able to understand why am I feeling this way, what are the factors in my life that are making me depressed and bringing me down, he said. In clinical trials -- the guided psychedelic experiences did not work for everybody. But in all the studies conducted by major universities, most patients showed lasting improvement after one or two doses It could reshape mental health treatment options for the 17 million Americans who suffer from depression. Phillips said thats why she wanted to share her story. I really want people to see how much this helps. It makes me emotional because I know there are so many other people in this space of feeling like theyre stuck, she said. She now sometimes microdoses mushrooms to help keep her depression and anxiety at bay and believes magic mushrooms have even helped make her a better mom. You never change unless you step out of your comfort zone, Phillips said. Its time to shed the light, she said. Some people are worried about increased DUI cases with magic mushrooms, as prosecutors saw with marijuana. But KIRO7 did not find experts in the field who are against decriminalizing entheogen psychedelics. SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) The second episode of Unsolved Upstate takes viewers back to a case that has weighed on a Spartanburg family and law enforcement for nearly 35 years: the 1991 killing of 43-year-old Kenneth Toby Wynn, a hardworking cab driver who was found shot to death inside his vehicle on December 28, 1991. In the episode, 7NEWS sits down with Captain Mark Hillers from the Spartanburg Police Department and Wynns brother, Ernest Wynn, to unpack what happened that night and discuss whats still unknown. The 13-Minute Window Wynn was working the night shift for Yellow Cab Deluxe, a company, at the time, owned by local businessman Charles Atchison. At 7:27 p.m., police said the companys dispatch received a call from someone who specifically requested Wynns cab number. Investigators said Wynn was requested to pick up a passenger on the north side of town near a store on Vernon Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thirteen minutes later, at 7:40 p.m., 911 was called. Police said the caller reported a taxi crash on Ansel Street. It was only a few-minute drive from the original pick-up location. Inside the cab, officers found Wynn dead from a gunshot wound. According to investigators, the drivers side door and rear passenger door were open, and it appeared the vehicle had come to a stop after it struck a tree. Courtesy: Spartanburg Police Courtesy: Spartanburg Police Courtesy: Spartanburg Police Was Robbery a Motive? Wynn was known to keep his fares organized by bill size. Investigators said smaller denominations were typically placed in his shirt pocket, larger ones in his pants, and his personal money was stored in a wallet. A bag he typically carried was missing from the cab, leading investigators to believe robbery could have been a motive. Witnesses claimed they saw someone leaning into the cab and then running away toward Church Street. Digging into Leads Police said the initial 911 call came from a house on South Church Street, a short distance from where Wynn was found dead. Over the years, several leads were investigated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably, investigators said there were multiple polygraph tests administered on different people. Indications of deception were recorded on several of them, including among the witnesses, according to police. Theres not a link that was found between these groups. They all could have different reasons, including being the murderer themselves or covering for another incident or crime, like what was alleged at 928 [South Church Street], said Capt. Hillers. And then you would have your Crime Stopper tips that would come in with different names that were unrelated to either one of these. DNA and Dead Ends Investigators from the Spartanburg Police Department said the case was handed over to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) early on to undergo DNA and fingerprint analysis. But despite collecting physical evidence, which included cigarette butts, fingerprints, and a potential weapon, nothing clearly linked a suspect to the crime. The Familys Plea for Closure Wynns younger brother, Ernest Wynn, described his brother as kind, humble, and eager to learn. He said he was a man who loved working on cars and spending time with family. Courtesy: Spartanburg Crime Stoppers We were so close people thought we were twins, Ernest shared. It still hurts today. I cant rest until I know who did this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ernest pleaded with anyone who knows anything to come forward. If you have a conscience, and you know who did this, say something. We need closure. I need peace, he said. Despite years of investigative work, multiple interviews, polygraphs, and tips to Crime Stoppers, no one has ever been charged in Kenneth Wynns murder. The case remains open, and Spartanburg Police believe someone out there holds the missing piece of the puzzle. You only get one shot at this, said Capt. Hillers. And if we bring the wrong person forward, they walk free. But were close. We just need a little more. How to Help If you know anything about the 1991 murder of Kenneth Toby Wynn, contact the Spartanburg Police Department or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spartanburg Police Department: (864) 596-2035 Crime Stoppers: 888- CRIME SC (274-6372) New episodes of Unsolved Upstate are available on local broadcasting platforms and streaming on WSPA+. Download it now on Roku, Apple TV+, and FireTV. Watch a tutorial on how to download WSPA+ 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 WSPA 7NEWS. UPMC announced a major philanthropic gift on Tuesday thats boosting its new Presbyterian Tower. Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin donated $65 million to support the project, and in appreciation of the gift, the tower will be named in honor of the couple. UPMC says the Kamin familys donation will support its mission to deliver life-changing medicine and innovative treatments. The tower is expected to open in early 2027 and enhance patient care with cutting-edge technology and modern facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The generosity of Dan and Carole and their family to this region and now to UPMC Presbyterian is truly inspiring and will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless patients, said Leslie C. Davis, president and CEO of UPMC. The Kamins are long-time UPMC supporters, through philanthropy and volunteerism. Theyve also made significant financial contributions to the Carnegie Science Center, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Heinz History Center in recent years. We know this [donation] represents a leap forward towards a better tomorrow, to the benefit of patients who receive health care in the greater Pittsburgh area and beyond, Carole Kamin said. This facility will help the UPMC team achieve breakthroughs in medicine that will continue to attract and retain top talent. The Kamin Tower will be a 636-bed facility adjacent to the current UPMC Presbyterian. UPMC says it will feature leading-edge technology to improve the patient experience and transform the way health care is delivered in western Pennsylvania. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW The US Army fired a Standard Missile-6 from its Mid-Range Capability, or Typhon, system in Australia. The successful live-fire test sank a maritime target. The MRC's deployment in the region has previously and repeatedly irritated China. The US Army fired its new MRC missile system in the Western Pacific for the first time, striking and sinking a maritime target. The Mid-Range Capability, or Typhon, missile system drew China's ire during a previous deployment, with Beijing repeatedly warning that its presence risks escalating tensions. The Army sees the weapon as an essential strike asset that closes a critical capability gap in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Army said on Tuesday that the 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force successfully fired a Standard Missile-6 using the versatile MRC launcher and sank an unspecified sea target. The test occurred earlier this month during the joint Talisman Sabre exercise in northern Australia. The service said it was the first time the land-based MRC had been fired west of the international date line, which splits the Pacific Ocean. "The deployment of the MRC and successful execution of an SM-6 live fire against a maritime target is another significant step forward in our ability to deploy, integrate, and command and control advanced land-based maritime strike capabilities," said Col. Wade Germann, commander of the 3rd MDTF. While this was the first live test of the MRC in the region, it has been deployed there before, notably during a joint exercise with the Philippines last year. The MRC is a high-value system for the Army, filling both a capability and range gap by providing a flexible way to fire both the SM-6s and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MRC's development followed the 2019 US withdrawal from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty over concerns about Russian violations. The treaty banned nuclear and conventional ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,000 kilometers. TK Courtesy photo of the Mid-Range Capability Project Office The withdrawal, overseen by the first Trump administration and driven by Moscow's SSC-8/9M729 missile, opened the door to the development of previously banned weapons. When the MRC was first deployed to the Philippines, China was quick to express its frustration. In September of last year, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China's foreign military, called the deployment "a move to turn back the wheel of history," adding that "it gravely threatens regional countries' security, incites geopolitical confrontation, and has aroused high vigilance and concerns of countries in the region." Earlier last year, he said that Beijing "strongly opposes the US strengthening forward deployment at China's doorstep." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China notably maintains a large arsenal of ballistic missiles, including many intermediate-range systems able to threaten US and allied forces in the region. China also expressed its irritation with the MRC to the Philippines last year. In August 2024, Filipino Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo said that his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, had expressed concerns that the weapon could destabilize the security and relations of the region and that when they discussed it, China "made it very dramatic." China has warned Manila against igniting an arms race. Beijing has said the Philippines, a key US ally, is serving American interests to the detriment of its own. Manila has expressed interest in the MRC's capabilities as a useful combat capability. Asked about the latest news, China's embassy in the US told Business Insider that the MRC is "strategic and offensive," adding that "China firmly opposes the US's deployment of the land-based Mid-Range Capability missile system in the Asia-Pacific, whatever its form." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MRC is a work in progress for the Army, which is still exploring how best to employ it. During the MRC's deployment to the Philippines, US personnel also tinkered with and reworked the system in the field, according to a Government Accountability Office report earlier this year, providing user input that led to "multiple design changes." The test of the MRC in Australia, the Army said, validated the ability to forward deploy long-range precision fires. It also, Germann added, provided valuable insights and lessons for future land-based maritime strike capabilities. Mobile launchers with the ability to strike targets on land and at sea have tremendous potential in Pacific combat. Read the original article on Business Insider WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and her deputy told President Donald Trump during a meeting in May that his name was in the Epstein files, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing senior administration officials. The newspaper noted that Trump was also told that many other high-profile figures were named, and that the department did not plan to release any more documents related to the investigation. Reuters could not immediately verify the Journal's report. (Reporting by Jasper Ward) PARIS (AP) With the support of international partners and $115 million in funding, the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO recently helped rebuild the Iraqi city of Mosul after it was devastated by the Islamic State group. The restoration of the historic city's iconic Al-Nouri Mosque and Al-Hadba Minaret was just one of many programs run by the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which is in the spotlight because the United States is leaving it once again. The decision to pull U.S. funding and participation from UNESCO will deal a blow to its work preserving cultural heritage around the world. U.S. President Donald Trump exited the agency during his first term, accusing it of promoting anti-Israel speech. The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden had rejoined UNESCO in 2023 after citing concerns that China was filling the gap left by the U.S. in UNESCO policymaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a look at the work UNESCO does: World Heritage Sites UNESCO names World Heritage sites, including landmarks like the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian pyramids, the Taj Mahal and the Statue of Liberty, and gives them special protection under its World Heritage Sites program. Its World Heritage Committee each year designates sites considered of outstanding value to humanity and intervenes when sites are in danger of destruction or damage. The program provides countries with technical assistance and professional training to preserve the sites. A World Heritage site designation is coveted and seen as a boost to tourism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another UNESCO convention created in 2003 protects intangible heritage such as folk songs and traditional dances, crafts and cooking in its lists. Holocaust Education Like the rest of the U.N., UNESCO was created in response to the horrors of World War II, and particularly Nazi crimes. Amid concerns that the agencys Arab members have used UNESCO to pass anti-Israel resolutions, UNESCO has worked in recent years on Holocaust awareness projects. That includes educational materials and organizing visits to former Nazi concentration camps. Empowering Girls UNESCO works to improve literacy, with a special focus on girls in countries hit by war or disasters who get little or no schooling though programs such as the Malala Fund for Girls Right to Education. In Tanzania, for instance, over 2,500 girls benefited from the creation of safe spaces in 40 secondary schools. The agency provides teacher training and materials and encourages programs for girls to pursue careers in science. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate Change One of the agency's goals is coordinating climate knowledge and improving international education about how global warming occurs and affects people around the world. Over 30 UNESCO programs are designed to help its members adapt to climate change and favor sustainable development. Ethics of Artificial Intelligence UNESCO adopted in 2021 what it calls the first and only global standard-setting instrument on the ethics of artificial intelligence. Applying to all 194 member states, the recommendation emphasizes the protection of human rights and dignity, grounded in principles like transparency, fairness, and human oversight of AI systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Operating without the U.S. UNESCO director general Audrey Azoulay said the U.S. decision to leave was expected and that the agency has prepared for it. While the U.S. had previously provided a notable share of the agencys budget, UNESCO has diversified its funding sources. Thanks to the efforts made by the organization since 2018, the decreasing trend in the financial contribution of the US has been offset, so that it now represents 8% of the organizations total budget compared with 40% for some United Nations entities, Azoulay said. She added that the agency's overall budget has increased and that it has the steady support of "a large number of member states and private contributors. If sufficient progress is made, Witkoff will travel from Rome to Doha towards the end of the week to secure a deal, according to reports. US President Donald Trump's Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will meet with Israeli and Qatari officials in Rome on Thursday to discuss hostage and ceasefire deal talks, sources told The Jerusalem Post. Axios reported that Witkoff will meet with Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and a senior Qatari envoy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If sufficient progress is made, Witkoff will travel from Rome to Doha towards the end of the week to secure a deal, Axios reported, citing a US and Israeli source. A senior security official told Walla on Tuesday that "We are in the midst of negotiations - really in the final stretch." Witkoff said last Wednesday that ceasefire negotiations were going well. Trump, during a bill signing ceremony in Washington, thanked Witkoff and also commented on progress, "We have some good news on Gaza and some other things that we are working on." Israelis rally in support of a hostage deal, July 5, 2025. (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI) Talks in recent weeks have largely focused on IDF deployment in Gaza during a ceasefire, with the Post learning last week that Israel had effectively conceded control over the Morag Corridor, based on the maps it presented to mediators. Focus on IDF withdrawal The impending potential deal with Hamas may include the government agreeing to an IDF withdrawal to virtually the same Gaza security perimeter that Israel held in January, sources acknowledged to the Post on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January, the IDF withdrew from all deeper portions of Gaza it had been in, in Gaza City, Khan Yunis, Rafah, and central Gaza to a security perimeter of around 700-1,000 meters around the Israel-Gaza border. Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report. This is a developing story. By Ammu Kannampilly, Jennifer Rigby and Jonathan Landay (Reuters) -U.S.-funded contraceptives worth nearly $10 million are being sent to France from Belgium to be incinerated, after Washington rejected offers from the United Nations and family planning organisations to buy or ship the supplies to poor nations, two sources told Reuters. A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday that a decision had been taken to destroy the stock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The supplies have been stuck for months in a warehouse in Geel, a city in the Belgian province of Antwerp, following President Donald Trump's decision to freeze U.S. foreign aid in January. They comprise contraceptive implants and pills as well as intrauterine devices to help prevent unwanted pregnancies, according to seven sources and a screengrab shared by an eighth source confirming the planned destruction. The U.S. government will spend $167,000 to incinerate the stocks at a facility in France that handles medical waste, the U.S. State Department confirmed. The spokesperson said that a preliminary decision had been made to destroy certain products from terminated U.S. Agency for International Development contracts. "Only a limited number of commodities have been approved for disposal," the spokesperson said via email, adding that no condoms or HIV medications would be destroyed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. lawmakers have introduced two bills this month to prevent the destruction of the supplies following Trump's decision to shut down USAID, but aid groups say the bills are unlikely to be passed in time to stop the incineration. The Belgian foreign ministry said Brussels had held talks with U.S. authorities and "explored all possible options to prevent the destruction, including temporary relocation." "Despite these efforts, and with full respect for our partners, no viable alternative could be secured. Nevertheless, Belgium continues to actively seek solutions to avoid this regrettable outcome," it said in a statement shared with Reuters on Tuesday. "Sexual and reproductive health must not be subject to ideological constraints," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The supplies, worth $9.7 million, are due to expire between April 2027 and September 2031, according to an internal document listing the warehouse stocks and verified by three sources. Sarah Shaw, Associate Director of Advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, told Reuters the non-profit organisation had volunteered to pay for the supplies to be repackaged without USAID branding and shipped to countries in need, but the offer was declined by the U.S. government. "MSI offered to pay for repackaging, shipping and import duties but they were not open to that... We were told that the U.S. government would only sell the supplies at the full market value," said Shaw. She did not elaborate on how much the NGO was prepared to pay, but said she felt the rejection was based on the Trump's administration's more restrictive stance on abortion and family planning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is clearly not about saving money. It feels more like an ideological assault on reproductive rights, and one that is already harming women." She added that many countries in sub-Saharan Africa had relied on USAID for access to contraception and that the aid cuts would lead to a rise in unsafe abortions. The United Nations' sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, also offered to buy the contraceptives outright, three sources told Reuters, without disclosing the financial terms of the proposal. 'DOZENS OF TRUCKLOADS' However, negotiations broke down, a source with knowledge of the talks said, in part due to a lack of response from the U.S. government. UNFPA declined to comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the sources with knowledge of the issue said that the Trump administration was acting in accordance with the Mexico City policy, an anti-abortion pact in which Trump reinstated U.S. participation in January. The pact forbids the U.S. government from contributing to or working with organisations providing funding or supplies that offer access to abortions. The source said there was no way for the U.S. government to ensure that UNFPA would not share the contraceptives with groups offering abortions, violating the Mexico City policy. The State Department also told Reuters these were factors in their decision on Wednesday, and added that it had avoided $34.1 million in costs by cancelling other orders placed under the Biden administration. The source also said the matter was complicated by the fact that the contraceptives in Belgium were embossed with the USAID trademark and Washington did not want any USAID-branded supplies to be rerouted elsewhere. UNFPA did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the concerns raised by the source. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the two sources who told Reuters the stocks of contraceptives were being trucked to France said it would likely take dozens of truckloads and at least two weeks to move the supplies out of the Geel warehouse, with a third source also confirming the scale of the operation. The French government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chemonics, the contractor managing the supply chain for USAID's family planning programme, declined to comment on the plans to destroy the supplies. (Reporting by Ammu Kannampilly in Nairobi, Jennifer Rigby in London, and Jonathan Landay in Washington; additional reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout in Brussels; Editing by Alexandra Hudson and Rosalba O'Brien) U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stands next to Idaho Gov. Brad Little as the governor declares August 2025 as "Keep Idaho Healthy Month." (Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun) Standing next to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Wednesday declared next month as Keep Idaho Healthy Month. Kennedy, also known as RFK Jr., called Idaho the home of medical freedom. He is visiting Idaho to talk with state officials about work to promote his movement called Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA, and to celebrate Idahos progress on it, officials for the Idaho governors office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idaho proudly leads the nation in ushering in the MAHA movement, says Littles proclamation, which declares August 2025 as Keep Idaho Healthy Month. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Little said Idaho had embraced the movement before it even had a name. He touted recent new laws that established a broad right to medical freedom that bans requirements for vaccines or other medical interventions, and prompted Idaho to request permission from the federal government to ban soda and candy from a food assistance program. MAHA is kind of in our ethos in Idaho, before we had a name to it. And you get credit for the name, Little said of Kennedy. To me, its the right thing to do for one person, the governor said. Its even more the right thing to do for their families. And I think the president and the secretary have talked about its a patriotic duty to do for the whole country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials did not take questions from journalists at the event. Kennedy and Little will also meet with tribal leaders about how the Trump administration and Idaho are addressing mental health needs on Native American reservations, governors office officials say. US Health Secretary RFK Jr. critiques pandemic control measures, but praised Idaho For years, Kennedy has doubted the safety of vaccines. The Trump administration recently restricted vaccines through a series of regulatory decisions in ways that sometimes counter established scientific consensus, the Associated Press reported. In brief remarks in the Idaho governors office, Kennedy criticized COVID pandemic control measures during the Biden administration, before shifting to the need to address chronic illnesses in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he praised Littles actions in Idaho. Idaho did better than any other state in preserving those essential American freedoms. And a lot of that was because of the leadership of Gov. Little, Kennedy said. During the COVID pandemic, Little temporarily limited public gatherings and closed some businesses. But months later in 2020 he ended the order and refused calls for a statewide mask mandate. This year, Little signed into law a bill banning mask mandates to combat infectious disease by governments and schools. Minutes before Kennedy and Little spoke in the governors ceremonial office, protestors standing on the front steps of the Idaho State Capitol Building chanted Vaccines save lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Little read his new proclamation, faint shouts from protestors outside his office carried through the room. After the event, protestors chanted: Hey, hey, RFK. How many kids did you kill today? SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE By Andrew Goudsward and Luc Cohen WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Kilmar Abrego, the migrant whose wrongful deportation to El Salvador made him a symbol of President Donald Trump's aggressive immigration policies, won two key victories in U.S. courts on Wednesday but will remain behind bars on human smuggling charges for now. In dual rebukes to the Trump administration after Abrego was brought back to the U.S. to face the charges, one federal judge ruled that he must be released on bail, and another ruled that authorities must give his lawyers three days' notice before they try to deport him again to a different country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These rulings are a powerful rebuke of the governments lawless conduct and a critical safeguard for Kilmars due process rights," Abrego's lawyer Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg said in a statement. Still, Abrego will remain in criminal custody in Tennessee for at least 30 days. His lawyers, while pushing for his release on bail, had asked that any such order be delayed given the risk that immigration authorities could swiftly detain and deport him upon his exit from jail. Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin in a statement accused Abrego of being a member of the Salvadoran gang MS-13 and said he "will never walk Americas streets again." Abrego denies being part of the gang. Abrego, 29, a Salvadoran migrant who had been living in Maryland, was deported and imprisoned in El Salvador in March despite a 2019 judicial ruling that he could not be sent there because of a risk of gang persecution. That prompted Trump's critics to argue that his administration was infringing on legal rights as it moved aggressively to deport millions of migrants living illegally in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abrego then challenged that deportation in a civil lawsuit before U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis in Greenbelt, Maryland. The U.S. Supreme Court in April upheld Xinis' order that the administration facilitate Abrego's return. In June, U.S. officials brought Abrego back to the U.S. after securing an indictment accusing him of transporting migrants in the U.S. illegally as part of a smuggling ring. Abrego has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has been held in criminal custody in Tennessee since his return. His lawyers have accused the Trump administration of bringing the charges to cover up violations of his rights. U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes in Nashville, Tennessee last month granted Abrego's request to be released ahead of his trial. But Abrego's lawyers later asked Holmes not to release Abrego right away, citing the risk he would be detained and deported to a country other than El Salvador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal prosecutors challenged Holmes' ruling. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw rejected that challenge, writing that prosecutors had not shown sufficient evidence that Abrego posed a public safety threat or was a flight risk to justify his continued detention ahead of trial. But he said the government was entitled to another hearing over whether to detain Abrego due to their allegation that he sometimes transported children. After Crenshaw's order on Wednesday, Holmes said she would delay her order for release by at least 30 days. In a simultaneous decision on Wednesday, Xinis ruled that if Abrego is released from criminal custody, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement could not detain him in Tennessee. She also ruled that his immigration case must be returned to Maryland, and that he must be notified at least three days before any deportation to a third country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Xinis' ruling, McLaughlin said, "The fact this unhinged judge is trying to tell ICE they can't arrest someone who is subject to immigration arrest under federal law is insane." Xinis' order did not bar immigration authorities in Maryland from taking him into custody. (Reporting by Andrew Goudsward; Additional reporting by Jan Wolfe, Jack Queen, Ted Hesson and Luc Cohen; Editing by Deepa Babington and Noeleen Walder) (Reuters) -U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration was among those breached by a hack of Microsoft's SharePoint document management software, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing a person with knowledge of the matter. Bloomberg reported that no sensitive or classified information is known to have been compromised in the attack on the National Nuclear Security Administration, the agency responsible for maintaining and designing the nation's cache of nuclear weapons. Reuters could not immediately verify the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Energy Department, U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Microsoft did not immediately respond to request for comments from Reuters. (Reporting by Dheeraj Kumar in Bengaluru; Editing by Tom Hogue) The United States will withdraw from UNESCO by the end of 2026, Washington said on Tuesday, just two years after rejoining the United Nations' cultural agency. "Today, the United States informed Director-General Audrey Azoulay of the United States' decision to withdraw from UNESCO," State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said in a statement. "Continued involvement in UNESCO is not in the national interest of the United States," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US President Donald Trump ordered a review of the country's involvement in and funding of the United Nations in early February, days after taking office for a second term. At the time, Trump said the UN had "tremendous potential" but "it's not being well run." Based in Paris, the UN Educational, Scientific, Cultural and Communication Organization (UNESCO) is tasked with promoting cooperation across those sectors to maintain peace. It is best known for its World Heritage list, which includes sites recognized for their special cultural, historical or natural significance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement World Heritage Sites in the US include Yellowstone National Park, the Statue of Liberty and the 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. In the statement, the State Department accused the organization of working "to advance divisive social and cultural causes and [maintaining] an outsized focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals," which it described as "a globalist, ideological agenda for international development at odds with our America First foreign policy." The department also cited "UNESCO's decision to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a Member State" as a reason for its decision, calling the step "highly problematic" and contrary to US policy," while claiming it "contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization." In recent years, the agency's work has repeatedly been overshadowed by disputes related to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the Palestinian Territories were admitted as a member state in 2011, the US halted its payments to UNESCO that same year. The country is currently the largest financial contributor ahead of China and Japan, meaning the planned withdrawal is likely to have significant ramifications for the agency. The UN health agency WHO has said it is facing an acute financial crisis after Trump signed an order to pull the US from the body by the end of 2026. Trump first pulled the US from the cultural agency during his first term in 2018, accusing UNESCO of a hostile stance towards Israel. The country rejoined under the Biden administration in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US had also withdrawn from the organization in 1984, citing anti-Western policies and inefficient governance, before rejoining in 2003. Founded in 1945, six months after the end of World War II, UNESCO currently employs some 2,000 people and has 194 members. According to earlier figures from the United Nations Association of Germany, UNESCO lost 22% of its regular budget each year after the US withdrew in 2018. Azoulay said she regretted the US administration's decision, which she said contradicted the principles of multilateralism and could affect US communities seeking inscription on the World Heritage List, Creative City status and University Chairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, she added that the organization was better protected in financial terms today thanks to support from its member states and private contributors. "In recent years, we have undertaken major structural reforms and diversified our funding sources," the UNESCO boss said, adding that the US now represented 8% of the organization's total budget. Meanwhile, Israel welcomed the move, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar calling it a "necessary step, designed to promote justice and Israel's right for fair treatment in the UN system." "Israel thanks the US for its moral support and leadership, especially in the multilateral arena which is plagued with anti-Israel discrimination," Saar said in a statement on X. By John Kruzel WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court let Republican President Donald Trump on Wednesday remove three Democratic members of the government's top consumer product safety watchdog, boosting his power over federal agencies set up by Congress to be independent from presidential control. Granting a Justice Department request, the justices lifted Maryland-based U.S. District Judge Matthew Maddox's order that had blocked Trump from dismissing three Consumer Product Safety Commission members appointed by Democratic former President Joe Biden while a legal challenge to their removal proceeds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maddox had ruled that Trump overstepped his authority in firing Commissioners Mary Boyle, Alexander Hoehn-Saric and Richard Trumka Jr. The Supreme Court in a brief unsigned order indicated that the Trump administration was likely to show that the president is authorized by the U.S. Constitution to remove Consumer Product Safety Commission members. It was the latest in a series of legal victories for Trump in which the Supreme Court halted lower court rulings that had blocked his actions. The court has a 6-3 conservative majority. Its three liberal members dissented on Wednesday. Justice Elena Kagan, joined by fellow liberal Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, wrote that the court had again used its "emergency docket to destroy the independence of an independent agency, as established by Congress." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Consumer Product Safety Commission was created by Congress in 1972 and tasked with reducing the risk to consumers of injury or death from defective or harmful products. The agency sets safety standards, conducts product-safety investigations and issues recalls of hazardous products. To establish the five-member commission's independence from direct White House control, Congress authorized the president to fire commissioners only for neglect of duty or malfeasance, not at will. Nicolas Sansone, an attorney for the fired commissioners, vowed to continue fighting for their reinstatement. "The Supreme Court's intervention deprives the public of important voices on the Consumer Product Safety Commission and sows substantial legal uncertainty," Sansone said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After being notified in May that Trump had fired them, Boyle, Hoehn-Saric and Trumka sued, arguing that their removals were without basis and that Trump had exceeded his authority. The staggered, seven-year terms of the commissioners were not set to expire until October 2025, 2027 and 2028, respectively, according to court filings. The Justice Department argued that the law shielding commissioners from being fired except for good cause violates the president's removal authority under the Constitution's provision delineating executive power. A 1935 PRECEDENT Maddox, a Biden appointee, sided with the commissioners in a June 13 ruling and ordered their reinstatement. The judge upheld the commission's removal protections under a 1935 Supreme Court precedent in a case called Humphrey's Executor v. United States that preserved similar protections for U.S. Federal Trade Commission members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kagan wrote that Wednesday's decision "all but overturned" the Humphrey's Executor precedent. The Richmond, Virginia-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on July 1 denied the administration's request to halt Maddox's reinstatement order. This prompted the Justice Department's emergency filing to the Supreme Court. The commissioners in their Supreme Court filing had urged the justices to reject the administration's request. They said that allowing the dismissals would deprive the American public of critical consumer safety expertise and oversight. In May, the Supreme Court in a similar case allowed Trump to remove two Democratic members of the National Labor Relations Board and Merit Systems Protection Board - despite job protections for these posts - while litigation challenging those removals proceeded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court in that ruling said the Constitution gives the president wide latitude to fire government officials who wield executive power on his behalf and that the administration "is likely to show that both the NLRB and MSPB exercise considerable executive power." The court on Wednesday said that the Consumer Product Safety Commission "exercises executive power in a similar manner as the National Labor Relations Board." In her dissent, Kagan criticized the conservative majority for using the court's emergency docket - an abbreviated mode of adjudication involving shorter-than-usual written briefs and no oral argument - to "override Congress's decisions about how to structure administrative agencies so that they can perform their prescribed duties." "By allowing the President to remove Commissioners for no reason other than their party affiliation, the majority has negated Congress's choice of agency bipartisanship and independence," Kagan wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "By means of such actions, this court may facilitate the permanent transfer of authority, piece by piece by piece, from one branch of government to another," Kagan added. The Supreme Court has sided with Trump in a series of cases on an emergency basis since he returned to office in January, including clearing the way for his administration to pursue mass government job cuts, gut the Department of Education and implement some of his hardline immigration policies. (Reporting by John Kruzel; Additional reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham) BALTIMORE, Md. (DC News Now) A Virginia man pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday for his role in filing false police reports to multiple Maryland police departments, according to the United States Attorneys Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland. Evan Strauss, 27, of Moneta, Virginia, pleaded guilty to conspiracy, cyberstalking, interstate threatening communications, and threats to damage or destroy using fire and explosives. DC Auditor report criticizes police handling of deadly force investigation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents outline that Strauss, along with three others, belonged to an online group known as the Purgatory. Using several social media platforms, including Telegram and Instagram, the group orchestrated swatting and doxxing activities and bragged online about successful swats they conducted. The USAO states that from December 2023 through January 2024, Strauss and his collaborators made false swatting calls to police in Maryland. Using systems like Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), they created shared scripts to conduct these false claims to various emergency response departments. Incidents included in the guilty plea: A lockdown at Newark High School in Delaware due to false active shooter claims False threats to burn down part of an Alabama trailer park False bomb and shooting threat at the Albany International Airport Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the USAO, Strauss is facing up to 10 years in prison per count as they relate to explosives or fire, and up to five years for conspiracy, cyberstalking, and interstate threats. Strauss co-conspirators Owen Jarboe, 19, of Hagerstown, Maryland, and Brayden Grace, 19, of Columbus, Ohio, have also pleaded guilty and are awaiting their sentences. Strauss is scheduled to be sentenced on November 6 at 10 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) Two groundbreaking research projects that will be conducted by the University of Texas Permian Basin are aiming to transform special needs education and meet specific educational needs. The Universitys College of Education and Information Technology Services, headlined by Dr. Adriana Frates, Kara Rosenblatt, Clark Moreland, and Curtis Rogers, are the lead developers of the projects, as well as partners with Bynum School. I had prior experience creating first-person simulations for the military and emergency medical services, where this method proved to be highly effective for training, said Rogers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the first project, Virtual Reality was used to help special needs students exercise real-life situations in both a controlled and safe space. Included in these practices are everyday challenges such as cooking, classroom behavior, and riding the bus. With these teachings, the project looks to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and improve social skills for students. Each Intervention is custom-built for the individual student and tailored to address the specific challenges they face. The simulation places them in a difficult or triggering environment and teaches appropriate responses and behaviors. They then engage in a VR game where they make choices based on what theyve just learned, said UTPB ITS Senior Learning Tech Analyst Curtis Rogers, the developer behind the initiatives. The second research project consisted of teacher training through Artificial Intelligence and a classroom stimulation. The virtual classroom gives teachers AI-driven students who each have unique learning needs. Teachers are able to work through multiple scenarios in the classroom as well as provide feedback on their performance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These projects are not only supporting the current special education teachers, but also many more to come. Although the two projects will use advanced technologies, both are completely independent research projects. Both initiatives have their own objectives, participants, and results. However, what they do share is UPTBs committment to finding news ways of improving teaching methods for those with special needs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Salt Lake City leaders announce the transfer of the municipality's Foreign Trade Zone grantee authority to World Trade Center Utah. Pictured from left to right, Salt Lake City Council member Victoria Petro; World Trade Center Utah CEO Jonathan Freedman, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Director of the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity Jefferson Moss. (Alixel Cabrera/Utah News Dispatch) Salt Lake City announced a move that may allow more Utah businesses that conduct international transactions to reduce or eliminate federal duties transferring its Foreign Trade Zone grantee authority status to World Trade Center Utah, a private nonprofit that provides global markets tools to Utah enterprises. Thats an action thats expected to bring more stability and certainty to the states businesses aiming to navigate shifting global markets, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said at a Tuesday news conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It reflects our shared belief that the Foreign Trade Zone can, and really should recruit more businesses, it should more effectively reach more businesses across the state of Utah, not just here along the Wasatch Front, Mendenhall said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The list of counties eligible to become a part of the secure areas include Davis, Morgan, Salt Lake, Utah and Weber. Dozens of other cities outside of that area can also participate in the program. However, World Trade Center Utahs vision is a zone that allows every region in the state to enroll. As new international tariffs come into consideration under the Trump administration, this change represents a stability tool, Mendenhall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stability is money, and theres been a great deal of instability in international markets for varying reasons in this climate, she said. And this is a well-established stability tool that now has an even broader reach in the state of Utah because of the World Trade Centers relationships and jurisdiction. The Foreign Trade Zones Board approved the authority status transfer last October, saying that the proposal is in the public interest. Let us know what you think... Utahs sole Foreign Trade Zone was established during former Salt Lake City Mayor Ted Wilsons administration in 1977, allowing some businesses to reduce or defer international trade duties. It was the 30th to be created in the country. Since then, the Foreign Trade Zone program has extended to about 300 areas across the U.S. and, according to Mendenhall, 15 Utah companies are either actively operating within the zone, or seeking federal approval to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 100 more are in the pipeline, said Jonathan Freedman, president and chief executive officer of World Trade Center Utah, who described the program as a wonderfully unique solution in a time of great uncertainty for businesses. We started discussing this almost two years ago. This was long before tariffs were mentioned. But as it turns out, we are uniquely positioned as a partnership here to offer something thats very valuable to Utah businesses, Freedman said. The mayor mentioned uncertainty, and this is a piece that is certain. As the new grantee, World Trade Center Utah will walk companies through the process of qualifying, and will provide cost-benefit analyses for free to expand the accessibility of the program, Freedman said. One of the nonprofits goals in the new role is to work with the federal government to expand the program statewide. Freedman said that would take time, but his team is determined to make it happen. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE After-school and summer program advocates in Utah are exhaling a bit following the Trump administrations recent decision to release $1.3 billion in previously withheld grant money for programs that benefit many working families. In a time of increasing political division, the Utah Afterschool Network applauds the bipartisan action that led to the release of 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) grant funds, the network noted in a news release. These funds were part of the $6.9 million in education dollars delayed by the Office of Management and Budget, which have now been reinstated following widespread public outcry and advocacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 1, the Education Department withheld more than $6 billion in federal grants for after-school summer programs, adult literacy and English language instruction as part of a review to ensure spending aligned with the White Houses priorities. Last week, 10 Republican senators sent a letter imploring the Trump administration to allow frozen education money to be sent to states, The Associated Press reported. The senators said the withheld money supported programs that had longstanding bipartisan support and were critical to local communities. We share your concern about taxpayer money going to fund radical left-wing programs, the senators wrote to the Office of Management and Budget. However, we do not believe that is happening with these funds. Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, who's charged with implementing President Donald Trump's policies and agendas, arrives to meet with Republican senators at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, July 15, 2025. | J. Scott Applewhite The administrations review of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which support after-school and summer programming, has been completed and that funding will reportedly be released to states, The Associated Press reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rest of the withheld grants, close to $5 billion, continues to be reviewed for bias by the Office of Management and Budget. In Utah, the restoration of these funds means that over 10,000 children and their families will not lose access to afterschool programs as the new school year begins, the Utah Afterschool Network reported. Research consistently shows that regular participation in high-quality out-of-school time programming improves school attendance, academic performance, and long-term success. Advocates: After-school/summer programs give parents a leg up Thousands of Utah children participate in after-school and summer programs that receive federal funding through 21st CCLC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Approximately 40% of all public funding for the states afterschool and summer programs comes from 21st CCLC, according to the nonprofit Utah Afterschool Network. Network Executive Director Ben Trentelman told the Deseret News recently that approximately 30,000 Utah kids are being served in afterschool programs across the state. Diana, Felipe and Aman share a laugh as they make slime as they and other kids take part in summer activities assisted by counselors at Central Park Community Center in South Salt Lake City on Monday, July 14, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Of those kids, about 10,000 of them were kids that attended programs that are funded by the 21st Century Community Learning Center grant, said Trentelman. Utahs working families, added Trentelman, depend on well-staffed, efficiently operated summer and afterschool youth programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, our state is in a child care crisis, he said, adding that some childcare programs have had to shut down in recent years due to funding decreases even while family expenses are on the rise. These programs are in high demand because theyre affordable and because theyre available during the hours between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. when kids tend to be engaged in the riskiest behaviors, said Trentelman. After-school and summer programs, he added, give parents a leg up to make sure that when they get home at the end of the day their kids have finished their homework. It helps to add to quality time for families. Trentelman is quick to note that the youth programs that would be impacted by a loss of 21st Century Community Learning Center funds do much more than simply keep kids out of trouble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre structured programs that offer activities that help kids apply skills that theyre learning in school, he said. There are programs that are running STEM activities or computer science activities and they do a lot around workforce development to help to make sure that kids are getting opportunities and exposure to our ever-changing work landscape. Aliza is assisted with her art by Girl Scouts troop leader Melissa King as kids take part in summer activities assisted by counselors at Central Park Community Center in South Salt Lake City on Monday, July 14, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News These are programs that are absolutely driven by economic development and helping to make sure that we have a robust workforce. 21st CCLCs future remains uncertain Despite the announced federal money release, schools and nonprofits in parts of the country have already been disrupted by weeks of uncertainty. Some programs have made plans to close, and others have fallen behind on hiring and contracting for the fall, The Associated Press reported. While we are thrilled the funds will be made available and thank the bipartisan lawmakers and the state attorneys general who fought for their release, the administrations inexplicable delay in disbursing them caused massive chaos and harm, with summer learning programs abruptly shutting down and a large number of after-school programs cancelling plans to open in the fall, wrote Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those programs have now fallen behind on hiring, outreach, contracting and other work needed to fulfill their essential mission to keep students safe, inspire them to learn, and give working parents peace of mind that their kids will be safe and supervised when schools are out. Grant noted that the Afterschool Alliance remains deeply concerned that the Trump administration is proposing no money for 21st CCLC funds next year instead collapsing it into a K-12 Simplified Fund Plan. If Congress agrees to that, we will see more children and youth unsupervised and at risk, more academic failures, more hungry kids, more chronic absenteeism, higher dropout rates, more parents forced out of their jobs and a less STEM-ready and successful workforce as our childcare crisis worsens dramatically, wrote Grant. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Utahns have a unique opportunity to submit a proposal idea for a large commemorative element addition, or a new monument, to the Utah State Capitol Grounds, an opportunity that only comes around every 100 years. The proposal must meet all terms and conditions of the Utah State Capitol Grounds Commemorative Element Plan & Placement Guidelines, including commemoration specifications, funding requirements, selection processes, along with the timeline for future additions. The process also requires filling out a Proposal Application Form, with a non-refundable $10 administrative fee. The deadline to submit both is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30th. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each applicant will be notified of their proposal status as the field is narrowed down to semi-finalists, who will be asked to submit even more proposal elements. More details on the proposal, application, and guidelines can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) Complaints over visibility issues at a south Wichita intersection are prompting change. Drivers say utility boxes are making it so they can not see oncoming traffic. KSN News spoke with the man behind the push to relocate the utilities box for months, and how the company that owns it is responding. Drivers say you cant see whats coming until its almost too late. They say this utility box is the reason why. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months, Steve Cranmer has raised the alarm in the city. He says, its only a matter of time before someone gets hurt. Do you see how far that ladys gotta pull up there to see if anybodys coming up? Its because she has to look past the sidewalk, he said. A safety hazard hiding in plain sight. Thats according to Cranmer. I said, Why did they put them there in the first place?' Cranmer asked. Local Outdoor watering plan could soon change in Wichita The problem began for Cranmer when he almost got hit at the intersection of Meridian and Jewell. Started the proper channels by going through the city hall, city hall and directly just for the traffic, then went to engineering, then to center inspection, then just passed on and on and on, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cranmer says you cant see whats coming and the drivers speed. As you can see, they dont abide by the speed of 40, he said. Cranmer says his elderly neighbors are worried about getting seriously hurt. If you pull up a foot too far past your deadline of the other boxes. Youve got to pull out into Meridian traffic, your nose to see if someone is coming just to get past those, he said. AT&T responded and stated that, We have been in close contact with the city as we work to remove the larger utility cabinet without disrupting service to our customers that are served by this equipment. We understand the communitys concerns and aim to complete this work as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. To watch our shows live on our website, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. RICHMOND, Va. (WFXR) The Virginia Chamber Foundation is hosting an inaugural Womens Leadership Forum to celebrate the 105th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and advance female leaders across the Commonwealth. On Tuesday, August 26th, the Altria Theater in Richmond will host female leaders from across the state. The Virginia Chamber Foundations says it hopes to create a signature event that will bring together trailblazing leaders and honor the contributions of women across industries and generations. They also hope to foster dialogue around leadership, equity, and impact. Guest speakers will include the Chambers first female president and CEO, Cathie J. Vick, who will be moderating the forum. Keynote speakers are set to be Jennifer Kiggans, U.S. Representative (VA-2), and Jennifer McClellan, U.S. Representative (VA-4). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Virginia Chamber Foundation, they also hope to offer: Thought-provoking conversations with women leading in business, government, and public service. Personal leadership stories and real-world lessons from trailblazers across Virginia. Networking opportunities with professionals, advocates, and changemakers committed to equity and impact. Celebration of womens civic and economic contributions, past and present. To learn more or register for the forum, please visit the VA Chamber Foundations 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 WFXRtv. Vice President JD Vance was met with boos from a crowd in Nantucket, Massachusetts, who trolled him with poster-sized photos of his face in a well-known meme, inflatable couches and plush cats in what was called a MeowTucket protest. The protest, promoted heavily by Amanda McGonigle, who is behind the Instagram account catsonacouch, was meant to disrupt Vances time on the island as he headlined a Republican fundraising dinner. In keeping with the Instagram accounts theme, many of the signs mocked Vance by referencing online jokes or memes about the vice president. That includes cats a reference to Vances controversial childless cat lady comment during the campaign. Trump drew ire during the campaign for saying the country was being run by "a bunch of childless cat ladies. There were also couches at the protest a reference to a fictitious rumor that Vance had sex with a couch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protestors even set up an inflatable couch underneath a massive tarp that contained an image of a popular Vance meme as a photo opportunity at MeowTucket. As Vances motorcade drove by, crowds of people yelled fascist and called for Vance to leave. Vice President JD Vance faced an unwelcome greeting on Nantucket by protesters mocking him with references to cats and couches. (AP) Signs brought to the protest said phrases such as In America, the law is king and fascists not welcome. To expand the mockery, protesters wore shirts with cats on them and held up cat masks to their faces. The protest was organized was several groups. McGonigle used her popular Instagram account, which is dedicated to fighting fascism, along with mocking Vance, to promote MeowTucket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of the protest, McGonigle also distributed thousands of Wanted posters featuring meme photos of Vance. McGonigle says the purpose of her account was to surpass Vances number of followers, but also took on the new mission of constantly trolling him so he does not know a moment's peace for the next three and a half years at least. Vances time on Nantucket, an island known as a summer vacation haven for the wealthy, was brief. The vice president hosted a Republican National Committee fundraiser ahead of the 2026 midterm election season. Tickets to the ritzy dinner were a minimum of $100,000 The event brought in a reported $3 million, according to the New York Post. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A pedestrian was hit and seriously injured while in a crosswalk in Vancouver on Monday night. The driver of the vehicle was traveling north on NE St. Johns Road at NE 44th Street when they struck the person, Vancouver police said. The driver, who remained on scene, is cooperating with investigators and was not intoxicated, according to officials. The pedestrian was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Advertisement 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. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) A jury convicted Logan Thorp, 26, late Tuesday afternoon on a charge of having a gun on the property of Bayside Presbyterian Church preschool. No bond for man arrested for having gun at VB church Thorp was baptized at the church, his parents were married there and he attended several years worth of boy scout meetings there, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. But he contended that he didnt realize there was a preschool connected to the church, even though he attended that school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commonwealth had to show that Thorp knew he had a gun and knew he was on the grounds of a preschool for a conviction and the preschool was operating when he came to Bayside Presbyterian the morning of Jan. 8. Man arrested for possession of firearm on VB church preschool property Thorp had a .38 caliber Smith and Wesson revolver with a single bullet in his pocket. The Commonwealth said what Thorp intended to do was irrelevant in this case. Thorp made his way into the sanctuary and told authorities all he wanted to do was pray. Thorp considers himself highly religious and has crosses tattooed in three places on his face and his neck. In a February jailhouse interview, he told WAVY that the crosses signify the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and he feels he, too is being crucified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thorp then invoked the New Testament. Blessed are you when you are persecuted for my name, blessed are you when you are cast into prison for my name, he said while behind bars. Children were already present at the preschool while Thorp walked the halls of the church, although he never entered the preschool wing. In fact, it was the same preschool he attended as a child himself, and the church is where he was baptized and his parents were married. Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Courtney Lewis showed the jury a class picture from more than 20 years ago of the Bayside preschool that included Thorp standing with classmates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to press release from the Commonwealth after the verdict, on his way out, Thorp commented that he would have kicked the glass in if the church staff member had not let him in. After he left the building, the superintendent observed Thorp standing up on the top of his truck and using his hands to mimic holding binoculars up to his eyes pointing back at the church. When asked what he was doing, Thorp then took his hand and made a motion with his finger and hand going across his neck, indicating a threat of harm to the staff member who opened the door. With numerous shootings occurring at schools and churches in recent years, defense attorney Brandon Fellers urged the jury to take the emotion out of it. Thorp was badly injured about five months before he was arrested at Bayside, suffering a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. Fellers was hoping to be able to put a mental health expert on the stand, but was denied. One of the things Judge [Scott] Flax excluded at the beginning of the trial was our expert, Fellers said. We had a mental health expert that was going to make an opinion that Mr. Thorp lacked any knowing intent of bringing a firearm onto a school property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fellers said he respects the jurys verdict reached after three hours of deliberation even if he disagrees with it. Sentencing for Thorp will likely come next month. According to Virginia Code, the felony conviction would carry a sentence of one to five years, but the judge has discretion. Thorp has already served more than seven months in 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 WAVY.com. On March 15, President Donald Trumps administration sent more than 230 Venezuelan immigrants to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador. Last week, the men were released as suddenly as theyd been taken away. These are their stories. [ Read more ] CAPACHO, Venezuela (Reuters) -A makeup artist who became the face of more than 250 Venezuelan migrants deported by the U.S. to El Salvador's most notorious prison arrived home to his family on Wednesday after what he described as "an encounter with torture and death." Andry Hernandez, 32, and the other detainees returned to Venezuela on Friday as part of a prisoner exchange, after spending four months in El Salvador's CECOT prison, where they and the Venezuelan government allege they were beaten, shot with rubber projectiles, held in dark cells, and served rotten food. "Many of our fellows have wounds from the nightsticks; they have fractured ribs, fractured fingers and toes, marks from the handcuffs, others have marks on their chests, on their face ... from the projectiles," Hernandez told journalists at his home in Capacho, near the Colombian border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. President Donald Trump invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport the men, who his government accuses of being members of the Tren de Aragua gang, without normal immigration procedures. The deportations sparked a legal battle led by civil rights groups. Families and lawyers of many of the men have denied they have gang ties. Hernandez, detained at the U.S.-Mexico border during the Biden administration, had an active asylum case when he was deported to CECOT. His case was widely covered in the media. Advocates in the U.S. have voiced concerns that Hernandez, who is gay, faces risks in Venezuela due to LGBTQ persecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. alleged Tren de Aragua membership based on his tattoos: crowns on his wrists that read "mom" and "dad." Hernandez denied the allegation. In a video broadcast on state television on Monday, Hernandez alleged sexual abuse by the guards at CECOT, and Venezuela's attorney general has said his office will investigate El Salvador President Nayib Bukele over alleged abuses. Bukele's office has not responded to requests for comment on the alleged torture. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson has referred allegations of mistreatment to El Salvador's government, while the U.S. Department of Homeland Security dismissed the allegations of abuse on Tuesday, calling the men "criminal, illegal gang members." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuters was not able to immediately confirm the abuse allegations. Hernandez's parents, Felipe Hernandez and Alexi Romero, have been anxiously awaiting his return since Tuesday, when he called to say he was on the way from Caracas, some 820 kilometers (510 miles) away. Hernandez said he was most happy to see them and his brother, but was also touched to find out that friends and family held vigils on his behalf and campaigned for his return. "It fills me with so much peace, so much comfort, so much tranquility that I was never alone, from day one. There were many people who worried for me," he said. (Reporting by Tathiana Ortiz in Capacho, additional reporting by Kristina Cooke in San FranciscoWriting by Julia Symmes CobbEditing by Rod Nickel) LOBATERA, Venezuela (AP) Carlos Uzcategui tightly hugged his sobbing wife and stepdaughter on Wednesday as the morning fog in western Venezuela lifted. The family's first embrace in more than a year finally convinced him that his nightmare inside a prison in El Salvador was over. Uzcategui was among the migrants being reunited with loved ones after four months in prison in El Salvador, where the U.S. government transferred them -- accusing them of being members of a foreign gang in the U.S. illegally -- in one of its boldest moves to crack down on immigration. Every day, we asked God for the blessing of freeing us from there so that we could be here with family, with my loved ones, Uzcategui, 33, said. Every day, I woke up looking at the bars, wishing I wasnt there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They beat us, they kicked us. I even have quite a few bruises on my stomach, he added before later showing a mildly bruised left abdomen. The migrants, some of whom characterized the prison as hell, were freed Friday in a prisoner swap between the U.S. and Venezuelan governments, but the latter sequestered them upon arrival to their country. Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and other officials have said many of the immigrants were physically and psychologically tortured during their detention in El Salvador, airing on state television videos of some of the men describing the alleged abuse, including rape, severe beatings and pellet-gun wounds. The narratives are reminiscent of the abuses that Maduros government has long been accused of committing against its real or perceived, jailed opponents. As the men reached their homes, they and their relatives shared deeply emotional moments in which sad tears and happy tears rolled down their cheeks at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uzcategui's wife, Gabriela Mora, 30, held onto their home's fence and sobbed as she saw the military vehicle carrying him approach after a 30-plus-hour bus ride to their mining community nestled in Venezuela's Andean mountains. She had set up gifts and decorations in their living room, including a star-shaped metallic blue balloon with a Happy Fathers Day greeting that his stepdaughter had saved since the June holiday. We met a lot of innocent people The 252 men ended in El Salvador on March 16 after the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to pay $6 million to the Central American nation to house them in a mega-prison, where human rights groups have documented hundreds of deaths and cases of torture. Trump accused the men of belonging to the violent Tren de Aragua street gang, which originated in Venezuela. The administration did not provide evidence to back up the accusation. However, several recently deported migrants have said U.S. authorities wrongly judged their tattoos and used them as an excuse to deport them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello on Friday said only seven of the men had pending cases in Venezuela, adding that all the deportees would undergo medical tests and background checks before they could go home. Arturo Suarez, whose reggaeton songs surfaced on social media after he was sent to El Salvador, arrived at his family's working-class home in the capital, Caracas, on Tuesday. His sister hugged him after he exited a vehicle of Venezuela's intelligence service. It is hell. We met a lot of innocent people, Suarez told reporters, referring to the prison he was held in. "To all those who mistreated us, to all those who negotiated with our lives and our freedom, I have one thing to say, and scripture says it well: Vengeance and justice is mine, and you are going to give an account to God Father. The Associated Press could not verify the abuse allegations that Suarez and other migrants narrated in the videos aired by state media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Tarek William Saab on Monday said he had opened an investigation against El Salvador President Nayib Bukele based on the deportees' allegations. Bukele's office did not respond to requests for comment. Appointment to seek asylum The men left El Salvador as part of a prisoner exchange with the U.S., which received 10 citizens and permanent residents whom Maduros government had jailed over accusations of plotting to destabilize Venezuela. Mora said her husband migrated after the coal mine he had long worked at halved his pay and their street food shop went out of business in 2023. Uzcategui left Lobatera in March 2024 with an acquaintance's promise to help him find a construction job in Orlando. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On his way north, Uzcategui crossed the punishing Darien Gap that separates Colombia and Panama, and by mid-April he had reached Mexico City. There, he worked at a public markets seafood stall until early December, when he was finally granted an appointment through a U.S. government smartphone app to seek asylum at a border crossing. But Uzcategui never walked free in the U.S., where authorities regarded his tattoos with suspicion, Mora said. He was sent to a detention center in Texas until he and other Venezuelans were put on the airplanes that landed in El Salvador. Still, she said she does not regret supporting her husband's decision to migrate. Its the countrys situation that forces one to make these decisions, she said. If (economic) conditions here were favorable..., it wouldnt have been necessary for him to leave to be able to fix the house or to provide my daughter with a better education. MONTPELIER, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) Vermont officials announced Tuesday a river corridor plan for the upper West River in Windsor and Windham Counties. Officials say the plan will help improve habitats for wildlife and protect against future floods. The plan includes 60 project recommendations, with high-priority projects in the towns of Weston, Peru, Landgrove, Winhall, and Londonderry. Some of the recommendations are as simple as installing a fence around a riverbank area that has been eroded by cows, while others would be more complicated and expensive. 69 infrastructure projects funded across northeast U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Upper West River and its tributaries have caused a lot of infrastructure damage in the past several years, said Margo Ghia of the Windham Regional Commission. She said that the projects listed in the plan could help mitigate flooding and protect communities downstream. Brattleboro, with its population of over 12,000, is located at the point where the West River joins the Connecticut. Read the list of recommended projects hereDownload Many of the recommended projects involve planting more trees within 50 feet of the riverbank, which helps slow down erosion. Vermonts DEC has a webpage with an easy-to-understand introduction to watershed planning, so that readers can understand how the agencys work helps protect their property and local communities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) Texarkana police are investigating a bloody assault early Wednesday morning. TTPD officers were called to the 500 block of Lumpkin Street for a reported stabbing at 4:22 a.m. When they arrived, they found a 44-year-old male cut multiple times on the front porch of a residence. As they examined the victim more closely, they discovered his left hand was severed. Emergency responders applied a tourniquet at the scene to control bleeding, and he was transported to CHRISTUS St. Michael for emergency medical treatment. Brown, Deroyce (Source: Texarkana Texas Police Department) Residents of the home told investigators they were awakened by a loud noise at the front door and called 911 after discovering the injured man pleading for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More Texarkana News The victims blood trail led investigators to a home in the 500 block of Waterman Street. Officers secured a warrant to search the home after no one answered the door. When they entered the home, two adult males were found inside, along with evidence that provided investigators with evidence that the assault had happened there. Both men were brought to the police station for questioning, which led to the arrest of Deroyce Brown, 19, for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. TTPD investigators determined the second man was not involved in the assault. The mans severed hand still has not been found by police, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the TTPD at 903-798-3116 or provide an anonymous tip to Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at 903-793-STOP. Advertisement 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 KTALnews.com. (NewsNation) The father of Kaylee Goncalves, one of four students murdered by Bryan Kohberger, said the killer used a weapon other than a knife during the 2022 slayings. The family spoke at a news conference minutes after Kohberger was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences by Judge Steven Hippler. We do know that another weapon was used, Kaylees father Steve Goncalves said. She was stabbed over 30 times, and she was struck and there was quite a bit of damage to her face, so this guy is just an absolute monster, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NewsNations Brian Entin asked Moscow police officials about a second weapon Wednesday. They stated they believe the Ka-Bar knife was the only weapon used in the murders. Bryan Kohberger is less than human surviving roommate says Kohberger brutally murdered Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in an off-campus Idaho home. He took a plea deal, agreeing to serve four life sentences for the slayings. He confessed to killing them in court, avoiding a trial where prosecutors intended to seek the death penalty. The Goncalves family has criticized the deal, calling it hurried and secretive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goncalves father, Steve Goncalves, said the family feels they were used by government attorneys as prosecutors compiled a mountain of evidence. Goncalves also added that he would have preferred the option of a trial and a potential death sentence for Kohberger. The former criminology student sat expressionless as several family and friends of the four young victims made emotional impact statements in court. Several members of the Goncalves family spoke directly to Kohberger, calling him pathetic, evil and nothing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Palestinians inspect a house demolished by Israeli forces in Qabatiya town, south of the West Bank city of Jenin, on July 17, 2025. Credit - Nidal EshtayehXinhua/Getty Images With all eyes on Gaza and on the fallout from Israels war on five other frontsHezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, Iranian militias in Syria and Iraq, as well as Iran itselffew have noted the unprecedented uptick in violence in the West Bank. Even the murder earlier in July of Saif Musallet, an American citizen, and the attack on CNNs Jeremy Diamond as he was on his way to visit the family of the slain Americanboth by violent West Bank settlersdid little to attract attention to what is an increasingly unstable tinderbox, fanned by convergence of troubling factors Although President Donald Trumps early January decision to lift sanctions on settlers sent the wrong message, a series of significant developments on the ground have triggered the dramatic increase in West Bank violence: Israeli extremists seizing what they see as an opportunity; their leaders using government platforms to provide support; the IDF looking the other way; and many Palestinian youth becoming radicalized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looming over it all is the shadow of two of the most extreme leaders of the annexationist minority in Israel, entrusted, since late 2022, by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with portfolios directly relevant to West Bank policies. One, Itamar Ben Gvir, a self-proclaimed Jewish Supremacist, controls the national police force. Since entering office, he has enacted a hands of policy concerning Jewish settler terrorists, relaxed the prerequisites for owning weapons and, prioritizing West Bank settlers, launched a campaign for Israelis to arm themselves. The other, Bezalel Smotrich, employs his dual position as minister of finance and as a minister in the ministry of defense in the service of his three publicly declared objectives: rapid expansion of Jewish settlements, increase pressure on Palestinians to emigrate, and financially choking the Palestinian Authority to bring about its collapse. A third, Minister of Defense Israel Katz, added fuel to the fire on Nov. 22, 2024, by depriving the Shin Bet (Israels Internal Security Agency) of a vital instrument in dealing with Jewish detainees: administrative detention. With settlers following legal advice not to cooperate with investigators and as evidence obtained by clandestine means cannot be used in an open court lest it exposes sources, court-supervised administrative detention has long proved essential in fighting terrorismfrom extreme settlers or otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emboldened by their leaders serving in such powerful positions, extremist settlersby now organized and armedhave made the most of the situation as the Israeli public and the world at large focuses on Gaza. The result: The number of incidents involving armed settlers assaulting Palestinian villages has increased dramatically over the past three years, doubling during the first half of 2025 as compared to the same period the previous year. An additional factor relates to the IDF. Its manpower stretched to the limit, and the top brass consumed by tending to simultaneous challenges from several fronts, lower-rank commanders of units deployed to the West Bank are often reluctant to confront violent settlers, primarily because of the support they enjoy from senior government circles. Last, but hardly least: With West Bank Palestinians harassed by settlers day and night, Palestinian youth, who are being put at risk, find neither the IDF nor the nearly bankrupt Palestinian Authority protecting their families. Images of the endless suffering of Gazans add to the combustible mix. With no hope for a better future, certainly not independencewhich the current Israeli government vehemently opposestheir elders, scarred by the pains of the Second Intifada, have no persuasive argument to dissuade them from repeating what the elders have long concluded was a mistake: armed resistance. Consequently, young West Bank Palestinians are increasingly inclined to join militant groups or form their own, and take to arms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thus, Israeli extremists and radicalized Palestinians feed on each other, using each other to justify violence, killing innocents, vandalizing property, and risking a major conflagration in the process. Terrorism is terrorism, regardless of religion, race, or gender, declared a recent urgent letter to Israels Minister of Defense. Sent on behalf of Commanders for Israels Security (CIS)Israels largest group of retired generals and diplomats, of which I am a member, it alerted the Minister to the dire consequences of organized Jewish groupssetting the area ablaze. Resources must be mobilized, we urged, so that those guilty of terrorism are apprehended, investigated, and swiftly brought to justice. Although even the murder of an American citizen did little to change the dynamics, recent settlers assaults on IDF soldiers deployed to protect them, might have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even those who shamefully looked the other way when the victims were PalestiniansPM Netanyahu includedsuddenly realized that this lawlessness could not be tolerated. No civilized country can tolerate violent and anarchic acts of burning a military facility, damaging IDF property and attacking security personnel by citizens of the country, said Netanyahu. In contrast, opposition leader Yair Lapid described the events as Jewish terrorists, gangs of criminals, who feel backed by the (governing) coalition. Time will tell whether this wakeup call triggers effective measures to end Jewish terrorism, which is as immoral as any other kind of terrorism. It also undermines Israels security and legitimacy. What is certain, from my vantage point, is this: if it does not spark those measures, this cycle of violence will only lead to the Gaza-ification of the West Bank, with tragic consequences for both peoples and further destabilizing effects well beyond the Israeli-Palestinian arena. Contact us at letters@time.com. A viral clip from a debate between political commentator and journalist Mehdi Hasan and a self-proclaimed fascist is bringing to light some troubling realities about the conservative movement and the general level of public discourse today. Hasan appeared in the latest episode of Jubilees Surrounded series titled 1 Progressive vs 20 Far-Right Conservatives, during which the former MSNBC host at one point debated a participant by the name of Connor. When asked to describe his ideal vision of the U.S., Connor referenced deporting people and then expressed a desire for a benevolent autocrat who puts an end to American democracy. He also insisted that he would not be harmed by such a dictator and started to quote Nazi theorist Carl Schmitt, leading Hasan to ask if he was a fan of the Nazis. We may have to rename this show because youre a little bit more than a far-right Republican.@mehdirhasan called out a self-proclaimed fascist on the show Surrounded where he debated 20 far-right Republicans. pic.twitter.com/5S1WQLT6NA Zeteo (@zeteo_news) July 20, 2025 I frankly dont care about being called a Nazi at all, Connor responded, later adding, Well, they persecuted the church a little bit. Im not a fan of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about Nazi persecution of Jews, he said, I certainly dont support anyones human dignity being assaulted. And when Hasan suggested that his views make him a fascist, he proudly replied, Yeah, I am. This particular exchange highlights a number of disturbing aspects of the modern far-right movement, particularly the extremist vision of government and dangerous delusions about how such a system would impact people. I dont think that it is terribly rational to believe that one couldnt be harmed by a benevolent dictator, should one rise to take power, Jacob Neiheisel, associate professor of political science at the University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences, told HuffPost. Even benevolent dictators have rarely remained so throughout their tenure in office and have a track record of hurting even those who are closest to them. When Connor shared his vision of government under a benevolent autocrat, he stated, Im not going to be a part of the group that he kills. But this viewpoint is particularly misguided and dangerous, in addition to callous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Excessive executive power is always dangerous because of the potential for capriciousness, said Todd Belt, professor and political management program director at The Graduate School of Political Management at The George Washington University. The autocrat who is friendly to you one day may not be the next. Also, power corrupts. With this in mind, Neiheisel emphasized the value of a critical and engaged citizenry. I would also say that a healthy distrust of power is, on balance, a positive orientation to have in a democratic public, he said. To maintain this kind of critical thinking and healthy distrust, however, the public must be educated and informed about historic events and politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think it is terrifying that fascism seems to be making a comeback among some young people who are terribly misinformed about what awful, immoral, murderous regimes they were, said John Jost, a professor of psychology and politics at New York University. This guy seems to think that Francisco Franco was a good Catholic guy, but he is either completely clueless or in massive ideological denial. Even the slightest bit of research reveals that Franco killed much more than 100,000 innocent people, and it took many decades for the Spanish people to get over it, if indeed they have. Jost published a paper in September titled Both-Sideology Endangers Democracy and Social Science in which he points to evidence that false, misleading, and poor-quality information is more likely to populate conservative-rightist than liberal-leftist media ecosystems. Thus, misleading and incorrect information about dictators like Franco can more easily spread and give rise to troubling views on government. The kind of rhetoric on display from the person Hasan was questioning appears to have become more prevalent on the right in recent years, Neiheisel said. Although he doesnt say as much, I wouldnt be surprised to find out that the individual in the clip is motivated by a desire to see some flavor of Christian dominion or theonomy come into practice in the United States. Shannon Finney via Getty Images Hasan has said the producers did not communicate the extreme nature of the conservative participants' views to him ahead of his appearance. He added that many others have come to support autocratic rule without a religious motivation as seen with influential far-right blogger Curtis Yarvins argument for an American monarchy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that pro-fascist guys comment about having a benevolent dictator speaks to a bit of a larger phenomenon thats happening in the United States where some portion of the electorate hungers for a strongman, said Matt Dallek, a political historian and professor at The Graduate School of Political Management at The George Washington University. He pointed to a far-right vision of an all-powerful figure who expels immigrants, fosters a more white and native-born population, and unleashes law enforcement to go after alleged bad actors like the corrupt evil Deep State with Democrats and Never Trumpers and whoever the enemy of the moment is. That sentiment has become increasingly mainstream over the past few years that if you are a citizen, youre native born, youre white, youre a man and you have resources, then the authoritarian forces that this benevolent dictator will unleash will only target the bad guys, not you, Dallek said. This delusional viewpoint in service of a racist, extremist and even murderous vision for the future suggests public discourse might be reaching new lows which begs the question of whether these kinds of debates involving extremists are in any way helpful or productive for the participants, viewers or society at large. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not sure how helpful these types of debates are, Neiheisel said. The only possible way in which the exchange between Hasan and Connor could be seen as a normative good from my perspective is that it might showcase that there actually are people who believe what Connor professes to believe about what government ought to look like. Acknowledging that there are those who would turn the country into more of an autocratic state is the first step en route to understanding why this impulse exists. Belt noted that rather than a censoring or cancelling approach, the Surrounded debate setup takes the position of counterspeech responding directly to harmful or offensive speech and countering it with more speech. While this approach aligns with constitutional values theoretically, I think that in practice it does not achieve the thoughtfulness of dialogue implicit in the counterspeech doctrine, he said. The incessant interruptions make the video look more like a game of who can score the most points by making the other look as radical as fast as they can, and thats not really thoughtful dialogue. I think this video appeals to audiences who are looking for someone to take the other side down a peg theres a real schadenfreude appeal to this type of video. He added that progressives disillusioned with the Democratic Partys milquetoast response to Trumps second term might find particular satisfaction in these kinds of viral clips and seeing someone take their arguments more forcefully to the other side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On one hand, the old Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis shared the idea that sunlight is the best disinfectant, and typically those who believe in free speech believe you counter bad speech with good speech, Dallek said. So I understand the impulse of taking on someone with really hateful, horrific views, and trying to expose that person for holding those extremist positions. On the other hand, he believes it is a little bit nuts to platform someone who is a self-proclaimed fascist and seemingly refuses to condemn Hitler and the Holocaust. Sure, this choice might draw attention and traffic to your clip and to your platform, but at what cost to humanity? (For his part, Hasan has said the producers did not communicate the extreme nature of the conservative participants views to him ahead of his appearance.) I dont think much, if anything, can be gained by providing a platform and legitimizing such extreme, repugnant views via a debate with someone who is so far out because youre helping put these horrific ideas which have mostly been confined to the fringe since World War II into the mainstream, Dallek said. And in the age of the internet and social media, some people will listen to others who express hateful or conspiratorial rhetoric, and they will act on these ideas in violent ways. So its really kind of perilous and a way of further debasing a public discourse that has already been debased quite dramatically. He emphasized that he has a lot of respect for nonprofits, civic organizations and individuals who attempt to bridge divides in the United States by having conversations with right-wing Trump supporters in which they seek to listen and understand why people believe systems are rigged or corrupt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that kind of dialogue can be productive and is important, but its very different from what seems to me to be an almost Jerry Springer-esque pie-throwing contest with a self-described fascist, Dallek noted. Thats a bad idea if you want to have a serious conversation about the divisions in the U.S. The country is awash in hateful, dehumanizing rhetoric, and these ideas have become more mainstream. Platforming a self-described fascist only serves to further that process. Related... When the Republican Governors Association convened this week for its annual summer fundraiser in Aspen, Colorado, there was an elephant in the room at the St. Regis: How little can it get away with contributing to its all-but-hopeless candidate for Virginia governor? Of course, the GOP governors and their top aides wouldnt couch it in such raw terms, but thats the upshot in one of only two gubernatorial campaigns in the country this year. The convergence of paltry fundraising, weak polling and a candidate seen as incapable of fixing either has some in the RGAs orbit unenthused, Im told, about giving much more than the $500,000 the group has already contributed to Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears, the Republican standard-bearer in Virginia. By comparison, the group gave $10.7 million directly to the now-term limited Gov. Glenn Youngkins winning campaign four years ago. Leading Republicans have long been convinced that they have a better chance to win in New Jersey, the other state holding a gubernatorial election this year. The GOP nominee there, Jack Ciattarelli, ran a surprisingly competitive race as the standard-bearer four years ago and has the support of President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet last weeks fundraising disclosures revealing that Democratic former Rep. Abigail Spanberger has more than three times the cash on hand as Sears $15.2 million to $4.5 million have Virginia and national Republicans convinced theyll lose the governorship absent a dramatic and unexpected change in the race. The money disparity is especially disheartening for Republicans because fundraising in these off-off year elections tends to be self-reinforcing, with donors and party committees curtailing their giving when they see candidates lagging. To borrow a phrase from Haley Barbour a legendary fundraiser and former GOP governor himself good gets better and bad gets worse, certainly when it comes to campaign dollars in such an environment. Making the problem worse, Sears is reluctant to make fundraising or even glaringly obvious political phone calls, according to multiple Republicans familiar with her campaign. Shes not reached out to some of the most reliable donors in Virginia or to top GOP figures such as the Virginia-based Chris LaCivita, Trumps campaign co-manager. And while Sears and Trump met privately earlier this year in the White House, the president has yet to embrace her candidacy, a non-endorsement that stems from her criticism of him between his two terms. This grim outlook has prompted irritation from some leading Republicans about the straits Youngkin may leave the party in on his way out of office. In fairness, the governor is at least trying to aid Sears. He has appeared with her on the campaign trail in Virginia and this week in Aspen introduced her to donors and recounted his own dismal polling four summers ago, according to a Republican present at the gathering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Virginia race is also Example A of how Elon Musk walking away from electoral politics, at least for now, could have down-ballot repercussions. Democrats in the commonwealth earlier this year were bracing for an influx of the tech billionaires money into Virginia, where there are no caps on giving, but the Musk moolah has yet to appear. Just as significant, Youngkin, a multi-millionaire, has yet to infuse the Virginia ticket with significant personal money or contributions from his political action committee. Hes got to win something, said Delegate Terry Kilgore, the House GOP Leader, of the governors legacy leaving office after his single term. Youngkin already lost control of the Virginia House of Delegates and failed to flip the state senate two years ago. And he was unable to find a top-tier candidate to take on Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) last year and will almost certainly not run himself next year against Virginias senior senator, Mark Warner (D). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats because the governor seems to be preparing for a future presidential bid. He courted business moguls earlier this month at Allen and Companys annual retreat in Sun Valley, Idaho where he appeared with Marylands Democratic Gov. Wes Moore in a discussion moderated by CNNs Anderson Cooper, Im told. Last week, Youngkin attended a GOP fundraising dinner in first-in-the-nation Iowa, and next month hell travel to South Carolina, traditionally the first presidential primary in the South. But he could leave behind a political mess for his own party in Virginia. Youngkin all but assured Sears nomination for governor, even though it was widely known she was a weak fundraiser and mercurial figure, and then attempted to torpedo the candidacy of her successor as lieutenant governor, John Reid, after it was alleged earlier this year that he had posted sexually explicit images online. Now, Virginia Republicans who were already swimming against the tide in a blue-tinted state Trump has never won that tends to punish the party in power in Washington are alarmed their entire statewide ticket may lose and could deepen the partys minority in the House of Delegates. Private polling from both parties has Spanberger leading outside margin of error. Democrats have her up 10 points, while Republicans project her to win by mid-single-digits, Im told. And Republicans are worried their entire ticket may go down if she loses by more than five. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This sense of dread is prompting an earlier-than-usual political triage, in which the party races to determine who can be saved. For the moment that appears to be the incumbent attorney general, whos running for re-election, and as many House seats as possible. Attorney General Jason Miyares, who declined to run for governor after seeing Trump prevail last year and grasping the challenge the former president being back in office would carry this year in Virginia has significantly more money in the bank than Sears and Reid, his two ticket-mates, combined. It is, to say the least, quite rare for an attorney general candidate to be better financially equipped than the gubernatorial nominee. Every high-level Republican I spoke to said the 49-year-old Miyares gave the party their best chance to salvage a win this year and set up a stronger nominee for governor in 2029. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes the Republican who has the best shot at winning statewide office this year, LaCivita told me. (It was lost on nobody in Richmond that LaCivita earlier this year hosted a fundraiser in the state capital for Miyares campaign alone.) Hes going to lead the ticket, Kilgore said of Miyares, adding that this is gearing up to be a 2001-type year. (Warner and Kaine prevailed that year, for governor and lieutenant governor, but Kilgores twin brother, Jerry, still managed to win as attorney general.) The math is showing us the obvious reality: Jason has done better at fundraising, has more cash on hand and hes a very good candidate, said Chris Saxman, a former GOP state lawmaker who now runs a state business lobby. Miyares top donors have made clear to other fundraisers that they may be on their own and have to overcome headwinds from the top of the ticket, according to a contributor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news for Virginia Republicans is that, while Musk may be sitting on his billions, he and his government-shredding chainsaw have also left Washington. That makes DOGE, which was particularly damaging in government employee-filled Virginia, less resonant with general election voters this fall than it would have been earlier in the year. Veterans of Virginia campaigns in both parties are skeptical that Democrats have the sort of energy they enjoyed in 2017, the year after Trumps first victory, when his surprise success immediately galvanized the opposition. And Sears last week appeared to grudgingly accept that she couldnt retain a pastor with little campaign experience as her campaign manager , a situation that Republicans believe well illustrated the difficulty shes long had maintaining professional staff and consultants. Sears campaign pointed me to longtime New York City donor John Catsimatidis, who has contributed to candidates in both parties for decades and said hes given to Sears and would do so again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes a nice lady who believes in law and order and common sense, Catsimatidis said of Sears. Yet none of this changes the fact that Trump only won 46 percent of the Virginia vote last year, when he carried every swing state, and that Democrats have an advantage in lower turnout elections when their high-engagement, high-education base always shows at the polls. Which means groups like the RGA will want to preserve as much of their money as they can for 2026, when there are 36 gubernatorial races and some of the most expensive will be in open seats. They cant totally abandon Virginia not with one of their own in office and making the case for his would-be successor in Aspen. To cut off Sears entirely would likely doom the party in Virginia. But this is one of those rare quadrennial elections in which New Jersey looks more appealing for Republicans than Virginia. Flooding in Damascus, Virginia on September 27, 2024, after Hurricane Helene. (Photo courtesy of Virginia Department of Emergency Management) By Katherine Hafner/WHRO Last fall, after Hurricane Helene devastated communities in North Carolina, it swept into southwest Virginia as a tropical storm, continuing its path of destruction. Roads and bridges were torn up. Stormwaters flooded homes, businesses and thousands of farms. At least two people were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the storm, Virginia turned to the federal government for help. Gov. Glenn Youngkin requested more than $4 billion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to aid recovery efforts. While this office continues to work collaboratively with our partners at all levels, the severity of these impacts highlights the significant need for accelerated federal support, he wrote in a November letter to then-President Joe Biden. Youngkin is now one of two sitting governors who are part of an effort by President Donald Trump to overhaul and potentially make deep cuts to the agency, which has already lost about a fifth of its workforce this year. Trump appointed Youngkin to the FEMA Review Council, led by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Its tasked with assessing FEMAs response to disasters, including reevaluating the governments role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president initially pitched getting rid of FEMA, but has backed off from fully dismantling the agency after its recent response to deadly flooding in Texas. Noem said this month that FEMA needs to be eliminated as it exists today and remade into a responsive agency. At the heart of the debate is who is responsible for helping Americans recover from natural disasters. The Trump administration argues it should largely be the states. Youngkin agrees, to an extent. At a May meeting of the FEMA Review Council, the governor said Virginias prepared to shoulder a greater share of disaster recovery and response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states are ready. Were ready, Youngkin said. We should be ready, because at the end of the day, were responsible. Environmental groups, however, worry significant cuts to FEMA could severely harm communities ability to respond to and rebuild after natural disasters. Twenty advocacy organizations including Appalachian Voices, the Virginia Beach Audubon Society and Norfolk-based Wetlands Watch recently sent a letter urging Youngkin to protect and expand federal disaster aid. While rebuilding after living through a devastating flood, people in need are not interested in what politicians are discussing in Washington, the groups wrote. They want to be able to easily apply for aid and be awarded enough funding from the taxes they pay to put their lives back together. FEMA leadership and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin discuss recovery in Damascus, Virginia in October 2024 following Hurricane Helene. (Photo courtesy of FEMA) When disaster strikes State and local governments already lead emergency response around disasters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FEMA steps in after a governor requests a formal disaster declaration, which includes a rough damage assessment. That unlocks two main sources of financial aid. Individual assistance helps people directly, covering immediate needs, including food, water or temporary housing. Property owners can also apply for assistance to repair storm damage, though the average payout is typically only a few thousand dollars. Public assistance gives money directly to government entities or some nonprofits to clear roadways and rebuild infrastructure. Virginia received more than $20 million after Helene last year, as well as more than $18 million in individual assistance as of this week. In 2018, a couple of years after Hurricane Matthew devastated the Windsor Woods community in Virginia Beach, the city received about $5 million in FEMA reimbursements and used it to improve stormwater drainage in that neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabrielle Walton, federal campaigns coordinator with the nonprofit Chesapeake Climate Action Network, said the commonwealth cannot afford to lose federal support, especially in smaller communities with fewer resources. Changing climate conditions are making major storms more frequent, intense and unpredictable, she said. Weather events are continuing to increase in ways that our systems were not invented to respond to, she said. These disasters are unprecedented, often. I dont know how we can say were ready for something with a scale we cant really imagine. Virginia Beach is working to build tide gates near Mount Trashmore to help prevent flooding during storms, particularly in areas hit hard by Hurricane Matthew such as Windsor Woods. (Photo courtesy of city of Virginia Beach) Preventing disaster In recent years, FEMA has looked beyond disaster response to invest in work that reduces a communitys risk before tragedy strikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program, or BRIC, for example, was launched under the Biden administration through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It awarded billions of dollars in grants nationwide for risk-reducing projects such as flood control systems and wildfire prevention. This spring, the Trump administration ended the program, rescinding funds that had not yet been spent. That included nearly $25 million earmarked for projects in Hampton Roads , such as improvements to the Lake Meade Dam in Portsmouth. The Hampton Roads Planning District Commission lost $200,000 that was set to help update the regions Hazard Mitigation Plan. FEMA requires localities to have these plans, updated every five years, to be eligible for federal disaster funding. Hampton Roads latest version will expire by 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia Sen. Mark Warner said hazard mitigation is an often-overlooked but critical piece of disaster preparedness. If you dont do resilience planning, youre doomed to repeat time and again the same mistakes that lead to disasters. Room for reform People on all sides of the political spectrum agree that FEMA is in need of changes, particularly in getting aid to people more quickly and with fewer bureaucratic obstacles. Warner said FEMAs financial calculation for aid also disadvantages rural and low-income communities. After Helene, for instance, many southwest Virginia homeowners struggled to get individual assistance because of relatively lower property values compared to other areas of the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That needs to change, Warner said. But he doesnt think scaling back federal aid is the answer. Virginia received billions in federal assistance to help rebuild the beloved Creeper Trail after Helene. Im not sure how the state budget could have absorbed that on its own, Warner said. And Helene would have bankrupted North Carolina if they had to do this on its own. Youngkin has said the states ready to take on more responsibility, but acknowledges Virginia cant afford the entire financial burden. Given state budget cycles and requirements to maintain a balanced budget, even states with the most robust emergency management are unable to self-fund disaster response to truly catastrophic disasters, he wrote with North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein in a joint letter to Secretary Noem in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through his seat on the FEMA Review Council, Youngkin has advocated for streamlining the aid process and turning to nonprofits and public-private partnerships to help compensate for a smaller federal role. In response to a request for comment for this story, Youngkins office told WHRO, the work of the FEMA Review Council is ongoing. A spokesperson for FEMAs Region 3, which includes Virginia, directed WHRO to information on the agencys website. Trumps review council is expected to make recommendations on how to change FEMA this fall, around the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) If you ever find yourself in need of resources for you and your family, the Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) can help. Volunteers for Youth Justice, a nonprofit organization serving Northwest Louisiana, offers multiple resources to the community. School uniform drive launched by VYJ for Caddo Parish students Alex Person, Director of Community Engagement and Development for VYJ, explained that The Harbor, located at 3004 Knight St., Building 6, serves as the hub for the family resources provided by the organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Harbor is a one-stop resource, where were able to serve every zip code in Caddo Parish. So, theres always a way for families to get the resources that they need, she says. The Harbor offers calming room, food pantry, counseling and more She also shares a message for anyone who may be embarrassed or scared to ask for assistance: There are people in this community who want to help, and Volunteers for Youth Justice is one of them. That is what we do, all day, every day. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. Editor's note: This story has been updated with new information regarding the Ukrainian government's meeting with G7 ambassadors. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen raised "strong concerns" with President Volodymyr Zelensky over a new law that strips Ukraine's top anti-corruption bodies of their independence, European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said on July 23. According to Mercier, von der Leyen asked Ukraine's government to explain the legislation passed by parliament and signed by Zelensky on July 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The President of the European Commission was in contact with President Zelensky about these latest developments," the spokesperson said. "The respect for the rule of law and the fight against corruption are core elements of the European Union. As a candidate country, Ukraine is expected to uphold these standards fully. There cannot be a compromise." The law grants sweeping powers to the prosecutor general over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), designed to operate independently of political influence. The move has drawn sharp criticism from civil society, opposition lawmakers, and Ukraine's Western allies, who warn it could derail Ukraine's path to European Union membership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Limiting the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agency hampers Ukraine's way towards the EU. I expect Ukraine to continue with determination its efforts in combating corruption," Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said in a post on X. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said Prague is monitoring the situation and reminded Ukraine's leadership that "support has never been and will not be a blank check." He added that fighting corruption remains a core requirement for EU accession. Sweden's Foreign Ministry also expressed "serious concerns" about the law and its impact on Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions. "Ukraine has made important progress fighting corruption in the past decade staying the course is essential," the ministry wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU's Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, met with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka on July 23 following three days of consultations. "We met shortly after... Zelenskys announcement of the preparation of a new law that will address cooperation among law enforcement agencies and (the) establishment of independence of anti-corruption agencies NABU and SAPO. Effectiveness of these institutions is an important part of Ukraines path to the (EU)," Mathernova said in a Facebook post. Meanwhile, representatives of the Ukrainian government met with ambassadors from the Group of Seven (G7) on July 23 amid concerns with Ukraine's anti-corruption policy, Svyrydenko said in a Facebook post. "The Government of Ukraine is set on zero tolerance to corruption, this will be reflected in the program of action from Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers," Svyrydenko said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say the law effectively reclassifies NABU and SAPO as regular law enforcement agencies, giving the prosecutor general authority to block corruption cases and override investigative decisions. The bill's passage triggered large-scale protests across Ukraine, with demonstrators demanding its repeal and warning it could unravel years of anti-corruption progress. Read also: Zelensky dismantles Ukraines anti-corruption infrastructure, brings law enforcement agencies under his thumb Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Some Frederick residents received voter notification cards that did not include polling place information for upcoming municipal elections. The cards include information on city elections including the City Council district that a voter lives in, the polling place and the election dates. The city put out a notice that some residents in City Council District 3, which includes the downtown area, received the cards without polling places. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cards are sent out by the Frederick County Board of Elections. It was discovered that a small percentage of these [cards] did not include the polling place information for the upcoming City of Frederick election. For the 2025 city election, Frederick has only one [in person voting] location, Trinity Recreation Center, Frederick County Election Director Barbara Wagner wrote on Tuesday in an email to The Frederick News-Post. The Trinity building is at 6040 New Design Road. The notice sent by the city of Frederick referred to the voter notification cards as voter IDs, but Wagner said the cards sent out by the county are not voter IDs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland, a voter notification card is a helpful piece of mail you receive after registering to vote or upon updating any information in your voter record, she wrote. It serves to confirm your registration, includes any updated details (like a name or address change), and provides information about your polling place. Importantly, a voter does not need to show this card when they go to vote. Voter ID, on the other hand, refers to official identification that voters need to provide when registering to vote or in some instances at the polls, Wagner said. For example, if its your first time voting in the state (using Same Day Registration) or if your identity is challenged, you may be asked for voter ID, she wrote. Up for election are all seven City Council seats and the mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though all five City Council members are currently representing the city at large, after elections five will represent five districts and two will represent the city at large. This comes after the then-Board of Aldermen changed the city charter in September 2024. Voters will be able to vote in person at Trinity on primary election early voting days Aug. 22 and 23, as well as the day of the primary election on Sept. 9. For the general election, residents can vote in person the day of the election on Nov. 4, with early-voting days on Oct. 24 and 25. Voters can also mail their ballots back to the city or drop them off in one of six ballot drop boxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City Clerk Phyllis Hane said on Tuesday that she heard from around 10 residents who had raised the issue, but she could not say how many other voters might have the same problem. Our quality control process identified the error, Wagner wrote. We are researching why it took place and are continuing quality checks on [cards] for city residents. If you are a City resident and notice any issues or have any questions regarding your VNC, please dont hesitate to reach out to the Board of Elections at 301-600-8683. Mary Kay Heling of Raleigh testifies before Congress about ending up on NC Judge Jefferson Griffin's list of people whose votes he wanted discounted despite the fact that she had supplied all required registration information and showed her license to vote. (Photo: Screenshot from house.gov video) GOP Appeals Court Judge Jefferson Griffins attempt to throw out more than 60,000 votes to win a Supreme Court seat landed in the national spotlight on Tuesday, this time through congressional testimony from one of the people he targeted. Mary Kay Heling, a Raleigh resident, told the Committee on House Administration that she ended up on Griffins list last year even though she had voted without problems in primaries and general elections since 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee hearing was focused on maintaining accurate voter rolls. While Republicans said states could get away with not doing much to ensure only qualified voters were on their lists, Democrats warned that legal voters were being caught in Republican purges. Part of Griffins challenge was based on the claim that voters failed to provide a partial Social Security number or drivers license number on their voter registration forms. Heling said she provided the last four digits of her Social Security number on the registration form and presented her drivers license at polling places when state law required voter ID. Never once did I doubt my vote was valid, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the November election, she received a postcard from the state GOP saying her vote might be challenged. She scanned the QR code on the postcard and spent more than an hour searching unsuccessfully for her name among thousands of others. It was later, searching a more user-friendly database, that she found she was on Griffins list. She went to the Wake Board of Elections office to identify and correct any problem. It took work and persistence, she said. It was frustrating and time consuming. Though state appellate courts ruled in favor of elements of Griffins lawsuits, a federal judge ended Griffins attempt to overturn Democratic Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs victory. Griffins election lawsuit mirrored a Republican National Committee and state GOP lawsuit that sought to have more than 225,000 voters purged from the rolls before last years election, claiming the missing numbers meant those voters were not legally registered. Conservatives ask for tougher standards The House committee also heard testimony about maintaining accurate voter lists from two conservative group representatives, J. Christian Adams, president of the Public Interest Legal Foundation, and Justin Riemer, president and CEO at Restoring Integrity and Trust in Elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They said the National Voter Registration Acts standards for voter roll maintenance are too low. Riemer encouraged the committee to eliminate or modify the 90-day blackout period found in federal law that prohibits the systematic removal of voters from the rolls 90 days before a primary or federal general election. Relying on U.S. Postal Service change of address information is insufficient, he said, because it fails to capture everyone who has moved. Federal law should require states to exchange registration information with one another, he added. This is wholly inadequate given the multitude of data sources available to election officials today, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A nonprofit organization called ERIC was established to help states maintain voter registration files. It offers members reports on people who have moved within state, out of state, and identifies duplicate voter registrations. Conservatives, however, grew suspicious of ERIC and Republican-run states pulled out of the group. North Carolina passed a law prohibiting membership. NPR reported that the far-right website Gateway Pundit started the Republican rush to leave ERIC. Republican U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil of Wisconsin, the committees chairman, said voter list maintenance is crucial to election integrity. US Rep. Greg Murphy, a Republican representing North Carolinas 3rd District, at a July 22, 2025 hearing of the Committee on House Administration. (Photo: Screenshot from house.gov video) Inaccurate voter rolls could open the door to election fraud, he said. It can hinder public confidence in our elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement States can avoid properly maintaining their voter lists because federal standards are low, Steil said. Democrats on the committee used Helings experience as an example of how difficult it is for voters to defend themselves when they are wrongfully targeted. Though Griffins lawsuit failed, Democrats representing other states said registrations of legal voters had been erased in voter purges. Its voter purges that undermine confidence in elections, said U.S. Rep. Joe Morelle of New York, the committees senior Democrat. The Trump administrations dangerous, false rhetoric going back to the 2020 election erodes democracy and threatens the voting rights of all Americans, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called Griffins effort to cancel Helings vote part of a concerted effort to concentrate partisan power. Proper voter list maintenance is important to secure elections, he said. But systematic voter purges, often illegally conducted in the run-up to federal elections, pose a real threat to voters. Federal lawsuit against North Carolina The U.S. Department of Justice sued the North Carolina Board of Elections over the missing numbers in the voter database. In consultation with the DOJ, the state Board of Elections developed a plan to collect the information. Last week, elections officials vowed that no voters would be removed from the rolls. People who have not supplied the numbers will be required to vote provisionally. If they dont put the information on the provisional ballot application, their votes in state races wont count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have taken the majority on the state Board of Elections and hired Republican Sam Hayes, former general counsel to GOP House Speaker Destin Hall, to run the state elections office. North Carolina U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy (R- 3rd District), a member of the committee, said the previous election board administration failed to address the problem of missing identification numbers. Im happy to say now the legislature has taken control of the Board of Elections and turned it over to Republican control, Murphy said. And now, the Republicans have begun the Registration Repair Project to ensure that all eligible voters have accurate, complete information on file. Morelle referred to the lawsuit against North Carolina as an example of Trumps weaponization of the Justice Department that is putting 200,000 people at risk of not being able to vote. The Board of Elections is keeping an updated list of people who need to supply ID numbers. As of Tuesday evening, about 101,000 people were on it. COLUMBUS, Miss. (WJTV) Pre-K education is a vital part of a childs educational development, and the Mississippi University for Women (The W) is looking to train a new era of instructors for these students. The W is set to launch a Bachelor of Science in Early Development in the Fall 2025 semester. This program is designed to prepare students for licensure as pre-K educators. The program will be offered through The Ws School of Education. Formerly known as Early Childhood Development, the program emphasizes classroom management, developmentally appropriate curriculum and instructional methods tailored to young learners. This program will align with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Professional Preparation Standards, with a focus on foundational knowledge and evidence-based practices for teaching children from birth through age eight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mississippi University for Women launches MAT in elementary education The shift from a non-licensure model to a licensure-track program directly addresses Mississippis urgent need for early childhood educators, said Dr. Martin Hatton, dean of the School of Education. Given both statewide and national trends, we anticipate strong demand and have designed the program to meet that need. Students in this program will be able to gain hands-on experience before entering the workforce through The Ws Child & Parent Development Center. Students will also have opportunity to gain field experiences in other settings, including public schools and childcare facilities in their local communities. Students in the Early Childhood Education program may choose either a licensure or non-licensure path, depending on their career goals. Those pursuing licensure will complete the required state exams upon graduation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All program content will be available online, offering students a flexible and affordable path to their degree. Licensure of the program was approved Thursday, July 17 by the State Board of Education. To apply for the Early Childhood Education program or other academic offerings at The W, please visit The Ws Admissions page. 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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Customers at a local Waffle House skipped out on the bill, which led to a parking lot fight with an employee who is now recovering from a stab wound to the back. Investigators said the stabber may have been acting in self-defense. On Monday night at around 11 p.m., an ambulance pulled out of the Waffle House, near NE 122nd and I-35, after the employee was stabbed. To the upper torso in the back, said Capt. Rod Strecker with OKCPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Authorities investigate dine-and-dash stabbing in NE OKC Oklahoma City police said just minutes before, a group of customers dined and dashed. When they left, some employees followed the patrons out to the parking lot, said Sgt. Dillon Quirk with OKCPD. Thats when a fight broke out. One of the victims was assaulted by the employee at which time a knife was produced, said Quirk. Police said the employee was stabbed in the back, but is expected to survive. Ronnie James Goldsmith. Image courtesy, the Oklahoma City Police Department. However, officers said another person in the parking lot, 41-year-old Ronnie James Goldsmith, pulled out a gun and pointed it at the people involved in the fight before running away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, everything was caught on camera. Weve got good video, good pictures of the car, including tag numbers, said Capt. Rod Strecker. Police said they caught up with the person who pointed the gun. Its the only arrest so far in the case. It appears the employee was the aggressor here, but that will have to be determined by the investigation, said Quirk. OKCPD said that following a customer over a restaurant ticket isnt worth putting your life on the line. From a police department standpoint, we have seen situations unfold that have resulted in either serious or critical injury, or even loss of life, said Quirk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees at the Waffle House location were not able to talk to us on camera. News 4 reached out to the chains corporate offices. So far, we have 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City. EMPIRE, Ala. (WIAT) The Town Creek Volunteer Fire Department is asking for help from the community after being forced to move out of its longtime station. The department is operating out of fire chief Chris Owens home but hopes to soon move into a new building located next door to its original station. Although the new facility is standing, it still needs thousands of dollars in renovations to be fully operational. Were not going anywhere. Were going to be here for you, Owens said. Weve been down several times, but were going to get back up. Were going to keep going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department is hoping to raise $40,000 to fund basic necessities like lighting, wiring and other essential upgrades. Owens showed how tight the space is, noting a tanker truck touches the back wall when its parked. Weather Aware continues through Wednesday evening for dangerous heat His wife Natileigh Owens, who also serves as the departments secretary, started a GoFundMe fundraiser to support the effort. She said she cried when the building was donated. He has been doing this since he was 19 years old. He built our department from the ground around 2012, Natileigh Owens said. It is his lifes work. It is his legacy, and I couldnt let it die. I couldnt do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department hopes to move into the new station within the next two to three weeks. To support the Town Creek Fire Departments GoFundMe page, 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 CBS 42. ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. A powerful tribute, called The Wall That Heals, arrived in St. Louis. Its a traveling replica of the Washington, DC Memorial, and its now open at Jefferson Barracks Park. The replica rolled into the cemetery on Tuesday and was escorted by a proud procession, reminding us of the sacrifice and service of thousands. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Continuing the education of the memory of the war. Because if we ever stop speaking their names, thats the only time theyre forgotten, said Vic Muschler of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many came to the cemetery Tuesday to pay their respects to fallen soldiers. Ive been doing this ever since they started the wall, Joel West, a veteran, told FOX 2. I did three tours over Nam from 65 to 69. And this is just something thats near and dear to my heart. Claire Majewski, another spectator, was also at the event. Her grandmother had five of her sons in World War IIall at the same time. The exhibit brings the legacy of more than 5800 service members closer to home. A conflict of interest: STL Sheriffs new HR officer previously fired stirs controversy It is a big impact for our community because so many of those people didnt get to say goodbye to their friends, said April Harman of Ameren Illinois. Their loved ones, their family members. So the fact that its coming here, they can finally get some of that closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exhibit is free to visit, and organizers hope every generation takes time to stop, reflect and remember. St. Louis County is hosting The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and its accompanying Mobile Education Center, at Jefferson Barracks Park from July 24-27. The traveling exhibit is a program of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) and is the only mobile replica affiliated with the original Wall in D.C. Since 1996, it has visited nearly 800 communities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COLLINSVILLE, Ill. A Walmart employee in Collinsville stabbed a co-worker Wednesday afternoon during an argument on the job, police say. The Collinsville Police Department tells FOX 2 that two employees ended up in an argument and it escalated with one employee stabbing the other. Child sex predator on the loose; arrest warrant filed The stabbed employee was sent to a hospital for treatment, while the other was taken into custody, according to Collinsville police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other injuries were reported from the stabbing. The Walmart, located at 1040 Collinsville Crossing Boulevard, was closed to customers for a brief time, but it has since reopened. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Here they come: The Federal Aviation Administration just lifted regulations on light-sport aircraft. "Our recreational pilots and plane manufacturers have correctly noted outdated regulations were inhibiting innovation and safety," said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy in a statement. "No more. Let's bring this industry into a new age!" The new Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule makes huge changes to how light-sport aircraft are regulated: It majorly ups weight and speed limits; includes aircraft with retractable landing gear and more seats; allows "for new types of propulsion and modern avionics" (including provisions to deal with simplified flight controls); and lets "pilots operating under Sport Pilot privileges to fly a broader range of aircraft." This is actually a really good thing for people who care about innovation! "The safety continuum makes sense," writes Eli Dourado on his Substack newsletter. "US airlines carry hundreds of millions of paying passengers per year. Those passengers have high safety expectations, particularly because some of them feel out of control on an airliner in a way that they don't in a car they're driving or riding in. The airline business doesn't work without a high safety bar.At the other end of the safety continuum, there are some pretty big benefits to allowing experimentation. The system of permissionless innovation under which the Wright brothers worked is directly responsible for us having aviation at all. We made rapid progress in the early days of aviation by sacrificing a lot of test pilots. Even today, new aviation technology often starts out in the experimental and light-sport world and works its way up to airliners over time as safety regulators figure out how to certify it as safe. Composite materials are one examplethey were used in experimental aircraft for decades before the 787 became the first majority-composite airliner." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dourado also notes that the loosening of these rules allows new entrants in the field to hire talent and start companies. "Let's say you were starting a company to build airliners," he adds. "You could have trouble finding engineers with Part 25 experienceyou might have to hire them away from Boeing or Airbus. But fortunately, it's relatively easy to find engineers who have built experimental or Part 23 aircraft before." Basically, there are huge benefits to having a bias toward allowing innovation and experimentation, and there are actually huge safety costs to overregulating this industry, since innovation will be crippled and we'll lose out on unseen, unknowable advancements. The upshot, per Dourado: "By making a category of aircraft that doesn't require type certification, is actually useful for transportation (250 knots and 4 seats), and can be flown with less skill via simplified flight controls, FAA is opening the door to a bigger market and vastly more innovation." It's not exactly the Trump administration legalized flying cars, but it is a step closer to that. If you want innovation in this realm, this is how you get it. Scenes from New York: "Columbia University has expelled and suspended students who were involved in a pro-Palestinian demonstration that shut down the main campus library in May, moving more quickly to hand down punishments than it has in the past, university officials announced on Tuesday," reports The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Universities being tougher on really bad conductthe type that impedes other students' abilities to learn and use public spaces; the type that damages university propertyis probably a great way to attempt to get in front of the Trump administration's attempted crackdown. Though the threats to pull federal funding make my libertarian heart sing, the administration is at times demanding or implying that the universities crack down on certain types of protected First Amendment activity, which is decidedly not the way. It's true that Columbia's leaders should not have allowed the takeover and occupation of Hamilton Hall, but it's also not clear to me that the feds needed to get involved; the better course of action is the one Columbia is taking now (albeit a year too late). QUICK HITS "Photos from 1993 confirm for the first time that Epstein attended Trump's 1993 wedding to Marla Maples. Epstein's attendance at the ceremony at the Plaza Hotel was not widely known until now," reports CNN. "In addition, footage from a 1999 Victoria's Secret fashion event in New York shows Trump and Epstein laughing and chatting together ahead of the runway event." Trump's response: In a brief call with CNN on Tuesday, President Trump, asked about the wedding photos, responded, "You've got to be kidding me," before repeatedly calling CNN "fake news" and hanging up. https://t.co/uLY9i0pz93 Edward-Isaac Dovere (@IsaacDovere) July 22, 2025 Honestly, we already knew they were friends, so this doesn't really do much to answer the outstanding question: How much did Trump know about Epstein's sexual crimes, and what efforts have powerful people inside and outside the government taken to cover them up? Usually when I see someone saying something awful is capitalism they are describing something that 1) is genuinely awful 2) is a consequence of material scarcity and 3) has gotten much much less bad under capitalism Kelsey Piper (@KelseyTuoc) July 21, 2025 "Microsoft Corp. warned that Chinese state-sponsored hackers are among those exploiting flaws in its SharePoint software to break into institutions globally, with the US agency responsible for designing nuclear weapons now among those breached," reports Bloomberg. The post So You Wanted Flying Cars? appeared first on Reason.com. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 57-year-old man was arrested for disregarding the courts child support orders on Wednesday, July 23, in East El Paso County, according to the news release by the El Paso County Constables Office for Precinct 3. According to the Constables Office, Paul Zermeno was arrested on an active warrant for criminal non-support. Zermeno was booked into the El Paso County Jail with a $10,000 bond. Paul Zermeno. Photo courtesy of the El Paso County Constables Office for Precinct Three. The warrant was issued on April 15, 2001, the Constables Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 23, constable deputies received information of an active warrant for Zermeno and later arrested him along the 400 block of Newell Hays Street, the Constables Office said. Constable Hector Bernal said that these types of warrants are often overlooked by law enforcement agencies. He would like to remind the community that his deputies will be vigilantly executing these types of warrants, looking for offenders, according to the news release. Tips may be submitted to (915) 273-3590 (Constable Office for Precinct 3) or through Crime Stoppers at (915) 566-TIPS. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against a deadly hunger crisis in the Gaza Strip, with the agency's chief stressing on Wednesday that famine was "another killer" facing civilians, who report of horrifying conditions in the coastal area. "The 2.1 million people trapped in the war zone that is Gaza are facing yet another killer on top of bombs and bullets: starvation," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva. "We are witnessing a daily surge in malnutrition-related death," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Since July 17, severe acute malnutrition centres are full without sufficient supplies for emergency feeding," the WHO chief said, adding that the agency had documented the deaths of 21 children under the age of 5 due to malnutrition this year so far. According to the World Food Programme, "nearly one person in three is not eating for days" in Gaza. Aid groups demand access to Gaza More than 100 aid and human rights organizations issued a joint appeal on Wednesday calling for access to starving people in the Gaza Strip. "Just outside Gaza, in warehouses - and even within Gaza itself - tons of food, clean water, medical supplies, shelter items and fuel sit untouched with humanitarian organisations blocked from accessing or delivering them," the 109 groups, which include Doctors Without Borders, Amnesty International and Save the Children, write. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Government of Israels restrictions, delays, and fragmentation under its total siege have created chaos, starvation, and death," they say. "The starvation of civilians as a method of warfare is a war crime," they warn. Israel has so far not commented on the appeal. Israel rejects accusations of famine The Times of Israel recently quoted a senior Israeli security official as saying that the military was not aware of "famine" in Gaza. However, he conceded that measures were needed to stabilize the humanitarian situation in the sealed-off coastal enclave. An Israeli government spokesman admitted on Wednesday that there is indeed hunger in the Gaza Strip, but stressed that this was not Israel's fault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, he blamed Palestinian extremist group Hamas, accusing it of trying to prevent the distribution of aid to the population and hijacking aid lorries and selling them on to traders at horrendous prices to pay their fighters. He also accused the UN of failing to pick up up aid lorries that are already inside the Gaza Strip and taking them to the people. The UN has rejected such claims, noting that its aid organizations rarely receive permission for aid lorries to enter the strip. More than 1,600 lorries carrying UN aid were authorized to enter Gaza between mid-May to mid-July, which amounts to less than 30 lorries per day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, more than 600 to 650 trucks per day are needed to meet the civilian population's most basic needs, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). According to an Israeli government spokesman, more than 4,400 lorries carrying aid entered the Gaza Strip between July 19 and 22. Ten people died of hunger in the past 24 hours, according to the local health authority in Gaza, with a total of 111 Palestinians having died due to the lack of food so far. The information cannot be independently verified. The United Nations has fixed guidelines to identify famine, which is only declared when at least 2% per 10,000 people "die daily of starvation, disease and malnutrition;" when at least 20% of households "face extreme food shortages"; and when at least 30% of children "suffer from acute malnutrition." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN has cautioned that it is difficult to assess these criteria in the Gaza Strip in view of ongoing Israeli attacks and the displacement of the population. According to the Times of Israel, thousands protested against the Gaza war in Tel Aviv during on Tuesday evening. Demonstrators also held up photos of children from the Gaza Strip who are said to have died as a result of starvation. Participants in the march also carried sacks of flour to draw attention to the hardship in the Gaza Strip. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) A Trumbull County Grand Jury has returned an indictment in a 52-year-old Warren mans rape case. According to court records, Charles Shultz was indicted on two first-degree felony counts of rape, two third-degree felony counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a fourth-degree felony of gross sexual imposition and a third-degree felony of tampering with evidence. Shultz was booked into the Trumbull County Jail in June after an incident reported on August 20, 2024. The charge was filed on April 24, 2025, and a warrant was issued at that time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weathersfield police provided a report on the incident, but it had no details on the allegations. The report stated that police took a report at the police station on August 25, 2024, on an alleged sex offense. Chelsea Simeon 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. NORTHWEST ARKANSAS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) County leaders say Washington and Benton counties are holding a first-of-its-kind joint meeting to discuss how to address population growth in the region. The county judges and quorum courts for the two counties are scheduled to tentatively meet in the Springdale City Council chambers Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. At the meeting, the Northwest Arkansas Council will present DPZ CoDesigns research findings into strategies on how to grow in an advantageous way for the region. No downside to just sharing information from my point of view: to get in a room, get educated about the issues that were seeing and hopefully put a plan together about long term, Washington County Judge Patrick Deakins said. Its a long-term planning endeavor in my mind. I think the goal of this should be, What is our plan five, 10, 20 years down the road?' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas health insurers file for a proposed average of 26.2% rate increase Deakins said the two counties share similar issues, including wastewater and road infrastructure, jail overcrowding and trash piling up at the regions landfill. Deakins used Austin, Texas, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro as examples of areas that regretted not addressing area-wide growth as it was happening. He said he doesnt want the region making those same mistakes and ignoring Northwest Arkansas population growth, which is estimated to welcome 38 new people per day. Nelson Peacock, the president and CEO of the NWA Council, said one of the challenges for the counties is having strategic plans for its smaller towns to properly grow, as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the concepts behind the growth strategy is to provide them a tool kit so that they can think about growth so that theyre not overwhelmed by it, and then they can preserve what they care about in their town, Peacock said. The plan that were working on with DPZ will give them tools looking at other places, how theyve grown, what are financial implications of decisions they make? Going forward, theyre armed with the resources of a larger community before theyre ready to pay for that on their own. Benton County Judge Barry Moehring echoed Deakins excitement for the meeting but said its difficult to pinpoint expectations on what the outcome could be because a meeting like this has never happened in Northwest Arkansas before. NWA 2050: Smaller towns seeing benefit from home buyers who work in four largest cities What that means for the future, specifically between the two bodies? Not sure yet, Moehring said. I dont want to overshoot expectations, but I think its great that were taking this step. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peacock said this joint-meeting strategy could be explored by local mayors in the future, as well. One of the key things that cities are doing is figuring out how their development codes work, Peacock said. Can we create a system and rules where we can get more affordable housing built in our cities? Can that lead to more transit options for people, so, as we grow, were not reliant totally on riding in a vehicle because, if thats the case, the traffic will continue to get worse for a lot of people. We need to have an option so that people could walk to work, bike to work, maybe theres rapid transit in our future. As we grow, well need to think about city-like amenities that help connect what are a few smallish towns, but well have to have them thinking more like cities going forward, Peacock said. Deakins said he hopes the joint meeting with Benton County is something that could eventually happen annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The public is encouraged to attend the meeting, and a livestreamed option will be available, as well, Deakins 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 KNWA FOX24. Washington state will no longer release data on how many people choose to die by assisted suicide. The Washington State Department of Health (DoH) has scrapped its annual report showing how many people are choosing an assisted death, blaming budget limitations. By law, the health service is required to publish a yearly report that breaks down the number of deaths by age and demographics. It also includes accounts of the reasons patients choose an assisted death, which campaigners have said are an essential guardrail to ensure vulnerable people are not being coerced into ending their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the health service said it has taken the difficult decision to suspend producing the report to free up staff to prioritise patient safety and other critical work. The move has sparked dismay among doctors and disability rights campaigners who warned that it creates serious risks of abuse. Dr Ramona Coelho, a family medicine practitioner based in London, Ontario, told The Telegraph: An accountable assisted suicide regime requires oversight. Assisted suicide is not a medical decision; it is a legal act, with specific eligibility criteria and procedural safeguards that must be met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lack of reporting creates serious risks of abuse, negligence, and erosion of public trust. Transparency is essential Experts have warned that scrapping reporting will lead to a lack of oversight of assisted deaths in the state. When the state plays a role in the premature deaths of its own citizens, transparency isnt optional its essential. But without full, accessible data on assisted suicide, the public cant know whether cases are rising or falling, or if vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected, said Rebecca Vachon, the director for Health at Cardus. So, this isnt just a data issue; its a question of life and death. If anything needs to be cut, its assisted suicide itself not the publics right to know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jessica Rodgers, a director at Patients Rights Action Fund, said scrapping reporting could lead to abuses going unreported. This data, which consistently shows patients request lethal drugs for reasons of disability, not wanting to be a burden and concerns around the costs of treatment, is the foundation of accountability, she said. Simply to ignore this provision begs the question of what else is ignored and what abuses remain unreported. No longer following own laws Alexander Raikin, bioethics expert at the Ethics and Public Policy Centre, said the decision represents one of the largest assisted suicide programmes in the United States no longer following its own laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state adopted the Death with Dignity Act in 2009, becoming the second US state after Oregon to legalise assisted dying. The law, which allowed terminally ill adults to request medication to end their lives, was expanded in 2023 to reduce the 15-day waiting period to receive lethal drugs to seven days, and allow nurses to prescribe and mail medication to patients. Since passing the legislation, the number of people in the state who have opted for an assisted death every year has increased by more than 500 per cent to 524 people, according to 2023 figures. While the most common age to choose an assisted death in Washington is between 75 and 84, there were 28 people aged under 54 who died under the scheme in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DoH has been locked in a funding battle over the Death with Dignity programme, which cost $225,000 in 2025. In a policy document, the department argued that current funding levels are insufficient to deliver data and reporting that reflect the departments commitment to data usability and transparency. As a result, the DoH said it has made reductions, including ending its annual reporting. 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. HANOVER TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) No one was injured after a car went up in flames in Hanover Township. Police say the SUV was traveling south on Route 309 with four people inside when the driver heard an explosion, then saw smoke coming out of the hood. Man stabbed 12 times after refusing alleged sexual advance The driver then pulled over, and that is when the car went up in flames. Hanover Township Fire Department quickly responded and was able to get the flames out quickly. Advertisement 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 28/22 News. The Congressional Voting Rights Caucus spoke to reporters Wednesday afternoon as hearings around redistricting efforts led by Republicans and supported by President Trump in the Lone Star State are set to begin. GOP lawmakers in Texas are using the special session to attempt to lock in the partys majority in Congress by means of weakening or eliminating Democratic districts in the state. Democrats, led by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.), have vowed to fight the moves tooth-and-nail. Watch the video coverage above. Advertisement 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. WATCH: Man punched in face, yanked from car by Jacksonville police in viral video addresses media William McNeil Jr., a 22-year-old Black man, spoke publicly for the first time Wednesday morning after a viral video showed McNeil forcibly taken out of his car by Jacksonville Sheriffs Officers. He was joined by his legal representation, civil rights attorneys Benjamin Crump and Harry Daniels. The incident involving McNeil occurred on February 19 when he was pulled over by Jacksonville Sheriffs Office officers for allegedly not having his headlights on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the stop, McNeil, a student at Livingstone College, requested to speak with a supervisor. That day I just wanted to know why I was getting pulled over. Why I needed to step out of the car. I knew I didnt do anything wrong, McNeil said. I was really just scared. This led to officers smashing his window and punching him with an open hand multiple times in the face. RELATED: First hit to mans face by JSO officer omitted in all police reports related to controversial arrest To the sheriff, respectively. You cant justify this. You cant condone this. You have to condemn this! This doesnt reflect training or values. Terminate that officer immediately! Immediately! Crump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video of the incident has gone viral, drawing national attention to the actions of JSO during the traffic stop. McNeils case has sparked discussions about police conduct and accountability, particularly in interactions with Black individuals. The involvement of high-profile civil rights attorneys suggests the case may have broader implications for civil rights advocacy. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] After the news conference concluded, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters issued the following statement: In light of William McNeil Jr.s public announcement that he has retained counsel, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office will not offer any further comment regarding the circumstances surrounding McNeils February 19th arrest. Our agency has publicly released body-worn camera footage pertaining to this matter, and I provided a briefing on the status of the investigation earlier this week. This publicly shared information is currently available on all JSOs social media platforms and our transparency portal. However, in anticipation of litigation, our agency will not speak further on this matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was in Jacksonville on Wednesday morning and Action News Jax had asked him if he had seen the video of McNeils traffic stop. RELATED: Jacksonville Sheriff answers community questions on viral traffic stop at town hall meeting He said he hadnt but expressed confidence in Waters, saying if people get out of line, hes going to hold them accountable. DeSantis said, in so many of these things, theres a rush to judgment, theres a theres a desire to try to get views and clicks by creating division. You can watch the news conference from Wednesday morning at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in the video above. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] 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. Dozens of international humanitarian organizations warned Israels blockade of aid into Gaza is endangering the lives of doctors and aid workers, while a major news agency says it is trying to evacuate its remaining freelance journalists because the situation has become untenable. In a joint statement, 111 international humanitarian organizations called on Israel to end its blockade, restore the full flow of food, clean water and medical supplies to Gaza, and agree to a ceasefire. The coalition warned Wednesday that supplies in the enclave are now totally depleted and that humanitarian groups are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Israeli governments siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families, said the statement, whose signatories include Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), Amnesty International, and the Norwegian Refugee Council. The statement followed a scathing indictment of Israel by 28 Western nations, who accused the country of drip feeding aid into the Gaza Strip. Israels foreign ministry rejected the joint statement which was not signed by the US - as disconnected from reality. The Israeli military must stop killing people seeking aid in Gaza, the European Unions top diplomat said Tuesday. The killing of civilians seeking aid in Gaza is indefensible, Kaja Kallas, the EUs high representative for foreign affairs, said in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the last 24 hours, 15 people, including four children, had died of starvation across Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Cases of malnutrition and starvation are arriving at Gazas hospitals every moment, said Dr. Mohammad Abu Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa Medical Complex, told CNN Tuesday. Doctors and humanitarians fainting from hunger, UN says Gaza was already heavily dependent on aid and commercial shipments of food before Israel launched its war on Hamas, following the October 2023 attack. Israel has previously blamed Hamas for its decision to halt aid shipments, alleging the militant group was stealing supplies and profiting from it. Hamas has denied this allegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli authorities have also blamed United Nations agencies, accusing them of not picking up aid that is ready to move into Gaza. But the UN asserts that Israeli forces frequently deny permission to move aid within the enclave, and that much more is waiting to be allowed in. Injured Palestinians are transported to hospitals after Israeli forces open fired on civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in the Zikim area, on July 20, 2025. - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu/Getty Images In the statement Wednesday, the coalition of humanitarian agencies also criticized the controversial Israeli-and-US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which began operating on May 27. The organizations said shootings occurred almost daily at food distribution sites. Juliette Touma, Director of Communications with the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, said in a separate statement that seeking food had become as deadly as the bombardments. She criticized the distribution scheme by the GHF as a sadistic death-trap, saying snipers open fire randomly on crowds as if theyre given a license to kill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And she added that care workers were unable to perform their duties due to a lack of food. Doctors, nurses, journalists, humanitarians are among staff who are hungry fainting due to hunger and exhaustion while performing their duties, she said. Israel has long sought to dismantle UNRWA, arguing that some of its employees are affiliated with Hamas, and that its schools teach hate against Israel. UNRWA has repeatedly denied these accusations. As of July 21, 1,054 people had been killed while trying to get food in Gaza766 near GHF sites and 288 near UN and other humanitarian organizations aid convoys, according to UN human rights office spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military has acknowledged firing warning shots toward crowds in some instances and denied responsibility for other incidents. In late June, the military said it had reorganized the approach routes to aid sites to minimize friction with the population, but the killings have continued. Last Wednesday, GHF said 19 people were trampled to death and another person was fatally stabbed in a crowd crush at one of its aid sites. It was the first time the group had acknowledged deaths at one of its sites. I dont have the power to cover media anymore International news agency, Agence France-Presse (AFP), said Tuesday it is trying to evacuate its remaining freelance staff from Gaza because the situation has become untenable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alongside Reuters and the Associated Press, Paris-headquartered AFP is one of a trio of major global news agencies that provide other media outlets with text, photo and video images from around the world. Independent journalists are not able to operate in Gaza because of Israeli and Egyptian restrictions on entry to the strip. Palestinian reporters have become the eyes and ears of those suffering inside Gaza during the 21-month conflict and are living in the same arduous conditions as the rest of the population. AFPs main journalist union Societe de Journalistes (SDJ), warned on Monday that some of the news agencys remaining freelance journalists inside Gaza were starving and too weak to work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without immediate intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die, the union said in a statement. The SDJ said AFP had been working with a freelance reporter, three photographers, and six freelance video journalists in the Gaza Strip. The union shared a social media post from AFP staff, Bashar Taleb, who works for the agency as a photographer, describing the grave conditions in the besieged enclave. I dont have the power to cover media anymore. My body is lean and I no longer have the ability to walk, Taleb, 30, wrote in a Facebook post on Saturday, according to the SDJs statement. Bashar has been living in the ruins of his home in Gaza City with his mother, four brothers, sisters and the family of one of his brothers since February, according to the statement. On Sunday morning, he reported that one of his brothers had fallen, due to hunger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another AFP staffer, identified by a single name, Ahlam, was quoted saying: Every time I leave the tent to cover an event, do an interview or document a story, I dont know if Ill come back alive. Her biggest issue is the lack of food and water, she told the union. A man wearing a press vest films the World Press Freedom Day demonstration in Gaza City on May 4, 2025. - Saeed Jaras/AFP/Middle East Images/Getty Images French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Tuesday that France hopes to evacuate some journalists colleagues in the coming weeks following calls from the SDJ. We are dedicating lots of energy, to get them out, Barrot said in an interview with French radio station FranceInter. He added that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is inhumane, describing it as a scandal that must stop immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AFP said it successfully evacuated eight of its employees from Gaza and their families between January and April 2024, and the agency is now taking the same steps for its freelance staff, despite the extreme difficulty of leaving a territory subject to a strict blockade. Their lives are in danger, so we urgently call on the Israeli authorities to authorize their immediate evacuation with their families, it added. CNN has reached out to the Israeli foreign ministry and the Prime Ministers Office for comment. The Israel-Gaza war has killed more journalists over the course of a year than in any other conflict since the Committee to Project Journalists began collecting data three decades ago. At least 186 journalists and media workers were killed and 89 were imprisoned since the war began. As food struggles to reach displaced people and the journalists among them in Gaza, the SDJ said in its statement: Since AFP was founded in 1944, we have lost journalists in conflicts, some have been injured, others taken prisoner. But none of us can ever remember seeing colleagues die of hunger. CNNs Joseph Ataman and Jerome Taylor contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Dozens of international humanitarian organizations warned Israels blockade of aid into Gaza is endangering the lives of doctors and aid workers, while a major news agency says it is trying to evacuate its remaining freelance journalists because the situation has become untenable. In a joint statement, 111 international humanitarian organizations called on Israel to end its blockade, restore the full flow of food, clean water and medical supplies to Gaza, and agree to a ceasefire. The coalition warned Wednesday that supplies in the enclave are now totally depleted and that humanitarian groups are witnessing their own colleagues and partners waste away before their eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Israeli governments siege starves the people of Gaza, aid workers are now joining the same food lines, risking being shot just to feed their families, said the statement, whose signatories include Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), Amnesty International, and the Norwegian Refugee Council. The statement followed a scathing indictment of Israel by 28 Western nations, who accused the country of drip feeding aid into the Gaza Strip. Israels foreign ministry rejected the joint statement which was not signed by the US - as disconnected from reality. The Israeli military must stop killing people seeking aid in Gaza, the European Unions top diplomat said Tuesday. The killing of civilians seeking aid in Gaza is indefensible, Kaja Kallas, the EUs high representative for foreign affairs, said in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the last 24 hours, 15 people, including four children, had died of starvation across Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Cases of malnutrition and starvation are arriving at Gazas hospitals every moment, said Dr. Mohammad Abu Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa Medical Complex, told CNN Tuesday. Doctors and humanitarians fainting from hunger, UN says Gaza was already heavily dependent on aid and commercial shipments of food before Israel launched its war on Hamas, following the October 2023 attack. Israel has previously blamed Hamas for its decision to halt aid shipments, alleging the militant group was stealing supplies and profiting from it. Hamas has denied this allegation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli authorities have also blamed United Nations agencies, accusing them of not picking up aid that is ready to move into Gaza. But the UN asserts that Israeli forces frequently deny permission to move aid within the enclave, and that much more is waiting to be allowed in. Injured Palestinians are transported to hospitals after Israeli forces open fired on civilians waiting for humanitarian aid in the Zikim area, on July 20, 2025. - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu/Getty Images In the statement Wednesday, the coalition of humanitarian agencies also criticized the controversial Israeli-and-US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which began operating on May 27. The organizations said shootings occurred almost daily at food distribution sites. Juliette Touma, Director of Communications with the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, said in a separate statement that seeking food had become as deadly as the bombardments. She criticized the distribution scheme by the GHF as a sadistic death-trap, saying snipers open fire randomly on crowds as if theyre given a license to kill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And she added that care workers were unable to perform their duties due to a lack of food. Doctors, nurses, journalists, humanitarians are among staff who are hungry fainting due to hunger and exhaustion while performing their duties, she said. Israel has long sought to dismantle UNRWA, arguing that some of its employees are affiliated with Hamas, and that its schools teach hate against Israel. UNRWA has repeatedly denied these accusations. As of July 21, 1,054 people had been killed while trying to get food in Gaza766 near GHF sites and 288 near UN and other humanitarian organizations aid convoys, according to UN human rights office spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military has acknowledged firing warning shots toward crowds in some instances and denied responsibility for other incidents. In late June, the military said it had reorganized the approach routes to aid sites to minimize friction with the population, but the killings have continued. Last Wednesday, GHF said 19 people were trampled to death and another person was fatally stabbed in a crowd crush at one of its aid sites. It was the first time the group had acknowledged deaths at one of its sites. I dont have the power to cover media anymore Two major media organizations have raised the alarm about their own journalists in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al Jazeera, which operates news channels in English and Arabic, said in a statement Wednesday that journalists in the enclave now find themselves fighting for their own survival. If we fail to act now, we risk a future where there may be no one left to tell our stories, said Dr. Mostefa Souag, the networks director general. I am drowning in hunger, trembling in exhaustion, and resisting the fainting that follows me every moment, said Al Jazeera Arabic correspondent Anas Al-Sharif in a social media post. Gaza is dying. And we die with it, he added. Israel banned Al Jazeera from operating in its territory in May 2024 and has called it a mouthpiece of Hamas. Al Jazeera rejected the claims as unfounded allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement International news agency, Agence France-Presse (AFP), said Tuesday it is trying to evacuate its remaining freelance staff from Gaza because the situation has become untenable. Alongside Reuters and the Associated Press, Paris-headquartered AFP is one of a trio of major global news agencies that provide other media outlets with text, photo and video images from around the world. Independent journalists are not able to operate in Gaza because of Israeli and Egyptian restrictions on entry to the strip. Palestinian reporters have become the eyes and ears of those suffering inside Gaza during the 21-month conflict and are living in the same arduous conditions as the rest of the population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AFPs main journalist union Societe de Journalistes (SDJ), warned on Monday that some of the news agencys remaining freelance journalists inside Gaza were starving and too weak to work. Without immediate intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die, the union said in a statement. The SDJ said AFP had been working with a freelance reporter, three photographers, and six freelance video journalists in the Gaza Strip. The union shared a social media post from AFP staff, Bashar Taleb, who works for the agency as a photographer, describing the grave conditions in the besieged enclave. I dont have the power to cover media anymore. My body is lean and I no longer have the ability to walk, Taleb, 30, wrote in a Facebook post on Saturday, according to the SDJs statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bashar has been living in the ruins of his home in Gaza City with his mother, four brothers, sisters and the family of one of his brothers since February, according to the statement. On Sunday morning, he reported that one of his brothers had fallen, due to hunger. Another AFP staffer, identified by a single name, Ahlam, was quoted saying: Every time I leave the tent to cover an event, do an interview or document a story, I dont know if Ill come back alive. Her biggest issue is the lack of food and water, she told the union. A man wearing a press vest films the World Press Freedom Day demonstration in Gaza City on May 4, 2025. - Saeed Jaras/AFP/Middle East Images/Getty Images French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Tuesday that France hopes to evacuate some journalists colleagues in the coming weeks following calls from the SDJ. We are dedicating lots of energy, to get them out, Barrot said in an interview with French radio station FranceInter. He added that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is inhumane, describing it as a scandal that must stop immediately. AFP said it successfully evacuated eight of its employees from Gaza and their families between January and April 2024, and the agency is now taking the same steps for its freelance staff, despite the extreme difficulty of leaving a territory subject to a strict blockade. Their lives are in danger, so we urgently call on the Israeli authorities to authorize their immediate evacuation with their families, it added. CNN has reached out to the Israeli foreign ministry and the Prime Ministers Office for comment. The Israel-Gaza war has killed more journalists over the course of a year than in any other conflict since the Committee to Project Journalists began collecting data three decades ago. At least 186 journalists and media workers were killed and 89 were imprisoned since the war began. As food struggles to reach displaced people and the journalists among them in Gaza, the SDJ said in its statement: Since AFP was founded in 1944, we have lost journalists in conflicts, some have been injured, others taken prisoner. But none of us can ever remember seeing colleagues die of hunger. CNNs Joseph Ataman and Jerome Taylor contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com TORRANCE COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) A Torrance County community has had little to no water for weeks, and the utility at the center of it has offered few answers to customers around why. The Melody Ranch Water Company tells state regulators the problems stem from a well thats not producing enough water to meet demand for around 80 households outside of Edgewood, but most of those customers have been left in the dark. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors are saying they are sick of it after months of water issues in Melody Ranch, southeast of Edgewood. You know, we kind of joked about it at first. We can do this while camping. Its temporary. But its been a couple of months now, said Barb Rankin, a Melody Ranch resident. It started with low water pressure but turned into a full shut-off in late June. Some water is now available during parts of the day, but the community is also being told to boil it. Meanwhile, neighbors said theyve had very little communication from the Melody Ranch Water Company. They have all of our phone numbers. They have all of our addresses, you know. Why didnt they call us and let us know, hey, you need to boil the water? said Rankin. The Albuquerque Water Authority is still making deliveries to the area while the state Public Regulation Commission and Torrance County said theyre also trying to help. The countys reached out to the owner of the water company, weve had at least a couple of discussions to try to determine really what the fundamental issue with the water system is, said Jordan Barela, Torrance County Manager. A new filing from the PRC indicates the water systems well is failing to keep up with demand, and replacing the system has created more hiccups. While the private utility said its having a hard time paying for fixes. That is one of those factors that creates some issues as far as financial resources to a private organization state of New Mexico, said Barela. The NMPRC just filed to open a case against the utility, which could lead to more regulatory action against the company. The water company told the state that they have spent nearly $20,000 in repairs and upgrades to the system so far. Theyre also asking for financial help from the PRC, which is planning to visit the water companys site this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KRQE News 13 has reached out to the Melody Ranch Water Company several times over the last month by phone to ask questions about the situation, but we have yet to receive any response. We have the documents sent by the NMPRC below. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. UPDATE: Gulf Coast State College and Florida State University Panama City have announced that their campus will be closed for the rest of Wednesday. Normal operations are expected to resume on Thursday. UPDATE: Gulf Coast State College has also announced that the campus will be closed Wednesday morning. No activities or classes will take place on campus before noon. ORIGINAL STORY: PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) The Florida State University Panama City has announced that the campus will be closed Wednesday morning due to a water outage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FSU Panama City said they are currently working on the necessary repairs and are expected to reopen at noon. Students are urged to contact faculty, as individual classes may be held remotely despite the campuss closure. News 13 will continue to provide updates as they become 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 mypanhandle.com. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Here are this mornings top stories with KELOLAND On the Go. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KELOLAND This Morning A plane described as jet trainer crashed near Granite Falls, Minnesota, on Monday evening after a flight record said it departed from Watertown. One person was killed and a second was injured, according to the Yellow Medicine County Sheriffs Office in Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jet on flight from Watertown crashes in Minnesota There were multiple reports of gunshots at homes in east Sioux Falls on Monday. Multiple gunshots reported at homes in East Sioux Falls We have an update on a dog involved in a rollover crash last week in Sioux Falls. You may remember the Sioux Falls Animal Control truck that was t-boned by an alleged drunk driver. T-Bone the rollover dog is ready for adoption The best chance of severe weather and strong storms will roll into Sioux Falls late this afternoon. Heres a look at the latest hourly planner. Severe weather with strong winds and heavy rain expected today Advertisement 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. MUSCOGEE COUNTY, Ga. (WRBL) The Muscogee County School District (MCSD) will be rolling out new weapons detection systems across all middle- and high schools for the 2025-2026 school year. Weapons detection on campus as a daily measure is a new protocol for us, said MCSD Chief Operations Officer Travis T. Anderson. Last school year, the 24-25 school year, we did a pilot program at Kendrick High school to see if we wanted to go with the system weve selected. After a successful pilot program, school district representatives feel confident the new systems will help students stay safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Implementing the systems cost the school district $884,000, according to Anderson. He said the systems were already a part of the districts plan through the E-SPLOST, however Governor Brian Kemp was able to allot grant money to help cover the cost. The school district says weapons detection systems wont impact the time it takes students to get to class it will be as simple as walking through a threshold. Systems will be installed at the front and back entrances of every school by the end of September this year. The installation comes after new data from the K-12 Shooting Database showed a marked decline school shootings during the 2024-2025 school year, compared to the school year prior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some credit increased safety and security measures, like what the school district is now implementing, for part of the change. We want to make sure [students] can feel safe and secure coming to school, MCSD Superintendent Dr. David Lewis said. Its a shame that we have to do these measures but we also recognize that you look throughout the country whether its public, private, urban, rural all schools are dealing with this. The weapons detection systems will be used alongside security vestibules which are already installed in many district schools. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NOTE: This article is now an almanac of Wednesdays weather. We have published a new forecast story for Thursday. Chicagoland is in the midst of its hottest stretch of 2025 so far. Wednesday started pretty pleasant for most of the area, with the humidity still low in most locations, but the afternoon brought dangerously high temperatures, high humidity and sweltering heat index values. Chicagos official high temperature, recorded at OHare International Airport, came in at 94 degrees, making it the 19th day of the year the airport has seen temperatures in excess of 90 degrees. Midway International Airport has had 18 days so far above 90 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Heat Advisory that went into effect Wednesday morning is set to continue until 10 p.m. Thursday. While Wednesday opened with a mix of sun and clouds, skies trended sunnier as the day progressed, with only a scattering of puffy fair-weather cumulus clouds. Wednesday saw 91% of available sunshine. Colder than my exs heart: Chicagoans find ways to battle the heat outside Wrigley Field Air conditioning tips to save homeowners money during heat wave Allergy Report Climate and Environment news: WGN Weather Center blog Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Oklahoma had one of the fastest-growing marijuana industries and is home to the most dispensaries in the nation, but the "wild west of weed" image being cultivated doesn't mean that it's legal for everyone everywhere. Oklahoma's cannabis laws exist inside the framework of a medical marijuana industry that is regulated at every level. And while the laws here on personal use are more lenient than other states, Oklahoma requires anyone purchasing pot to have a medical marijuana license. Here's what consumers should know about Oklahoma's medical marijuana laws. How to buy marijuana in in Oklahoma While other states allow the mostly unregulated sale of marijuana to adults, Oklahoma added an extra step: The medical marijuana patient license. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medical marijuana can only be purchased from a dispensary. To buy from a dispensary, you'll need one of five licenses: Adult license : Valid to Oklahoma residents 18 and older, and is valid for two years. Short-term license : Valid to Oklahoma residents of any age, but is only valid for 60 days. Minor license : A two-year license available to residents under 18 years old. Caregiver license : Allows the purchase of medical marijuana for another person. Valid for two years. Out-of-state license: Available to visitors who have a medical marijuana license issued by their home state. Oklahoma voters rejected a recreational marijuana plan in 2023. State Question 820 would have legalized recreational marijuana in the state. The passage would've allowed dispensaries in Oklahoma to sell cannabis and cannabis products to anyone age 21 and older. Visiting Oklahoma? There's a license for that If you have plans to visit Oklahoma and want to partake, the state will let you purchase marijuana only under strict conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You'll have to request the appropriate license from the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority. That process can take up to two weeks. Upon approval, the license is valid for 30 days. Out-of-state patients will need a medical marijuana license issued by their respective state government, not their doctor's prescription or recommendation. For example, among Oklahomas bordering states with medical marijuana programs, patients from Missouri and Arkansas are eligible because those state governments issue the licenses. Patients from Texas are not eligible, because the state government itself does not issue licenses. Legal loopholes to purchase, possess marijuana The 2018 Farm Bill and associated regulation opened the door to unregulated THC products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill made hemp and hemp products legal if they contain no more than 0.3% of a specific cannabinoid, Delta-9 THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol. Congressional lawmakers and others had pushed to legalize hemp as an alternative to growing tobacco. Hemp also has other uses in textiles and building material construction. Unlike medical marijuana, which has tight controls on cultivation, processing, transport, testing and sales, hemp-based THC can be purchased without a license and can be delivered to your home through a smartphone app. DoorDash launchd its CBD and THC delivery service in early 2025. While other brands have offered direct shipping and similar products are already sold at convenience stores, this is the most mainstream service that brings hemp-based THC to your home. Products are delivered from the company's DashMart distribution point in Oklahoma City. 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Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America 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 This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) West Jordan Police Department released new information regarding their investigation into the fatal house fire that occurred on July 18, stating that they currently believe that the father started the fire. On Friday, July 18 at around 10 a.m., emergency crews responded to reports of a house fire in West Jordan. Three people died in the blaze, and one survivor, a juvenile female, was airlifted to the hospital in serious condition. She later died from her wounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ NEXT: It was the worst thing Ive ever seen in real life Neighbor attempts daring rescue in deadly West Jordan house fire Previously, West Jordan Police confirmed that it was an intentional act of arson, and the three people who died in the fire were a man, a woman, and a juvenile boy. West Jordan Police have not confirmed the identity of the deceased individuals, but they stated that they have preliminary findings that lead them to believe they know who each of them is. However, they will not release any names until the Medical Examiner confirms their identities. ABC4.com previously spoke to family members of the deceased, who confirmed them as Jaimar Bravo Gil, 33, and her two children, Juliano, 9, and Yorgina, 14. They also identified the father as Yordano Valencias Pina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a press release from the police, one of the deceased individuals, who they believe is the father, called his employer the day of the fire and told them that he would be late for work. He also reportedly sold belongings, beginning a few days before the incident and leading up to the fire. The investigation also found the father pacing outside the residence a few minutes before the explosion was heard, through footage from neighbors security cameras. Police stated that they believe that the explosion was caused by a buildup of fumes from an accelerant, and investigators found a gas can in the immediate vicinity of the father. Respondents also reported a strong smell of gasoline throughout the house even after the fire was extinguished. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Family of deadly West Jordan house fire victims speaks out Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators were also able to receive statements from the young girl before she died, and her statements also led investigators to believe that the father was the one who started the fire. West Jordan Police held a press conference Tuesday afternoon where Sergeant Andrew Hercules detailed the information from the news release and answered questions from reporters. He stated that they have no way of knowing motive since the person they believe started the fire is dead, but they have classed it as a murder-suicide. Next of kin have been notified, and police believe the individuals were a family of four with two children. Sgt. Hercules stated that there was one previously reported incident at the residence, which he said was a domestic violence incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that the fire began inside the home, and victims were all found in different bedrooms of the house. The victims had no noticeable injuries besides those caused by the fire. The statements from the juvenile female were taken upon immediate contact with her, he said, and he expressed sincere gratitude for the heroic efforts of passerby to help her. He said that their efforts allowed investigators to speak to her to get those statements. Sgt. Hercules described the fire as a tragic incident and said that it is hard when tragedies like this happen so close to home. He thanked the community for their support and how they have come together in the wake of this incident. He added that the first responders appreciate the concern from the community. Latest headlines: Advertisement 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. FORT DODGE, Iowa (KCAU) The West Monona Spartans dropped its IGHSAU Class 2A State Softball quarterfinal matchup to Louisa-Muscatine in a 5-2 defeat. West Monona plated a pair of runs in the top of the seventh, but the teams rally came to a halt after three outs. The Spartans (29-7) will take on Cascade in the consolation bracket. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (COLORADO) With summer in full swing, and individuals partaking in activities outside, the community should be aware of mosquito-borne viruses and how to protect themselves against them. With the first human cases of West Nile virus confirmed in Adams County, officials are cautioning the community to be aware of infected mosquitoes. While only two people have been confirmed to have the virus, mosquitoes carrying it have been identified in Adams, Boulder, Denver, Larimer, and Weld County. Colorado is no stranger to the virus with the first case being recorded in 2002. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Risk to humans occurs primarily from June through early September due to mosquitoes being active. However, El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) noted that in Colorado, most human cases are reported in August and September. Most people get West Nile virus from the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes infected when it feeds on infected birds. The risk of infection is highest for those who work outside or participate in outdoor activities, as they become exposed to mosquitoes. However, people of any age can get the virus, with people over 50 having the greatest risk for severe disease. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants are also at greater risk for serious illnesses. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious brain infections like meningitis and encephalitis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Symptoms can begin from two days to 14 days and often begin suddenly with high fever and headache that may progress into stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, and coma. According to EPCPH, one in five infected people will have flu-like symptoms which usually begins two to 14 days after exposure. Serious, potentially deadly neurologic illness occurs in fewer than one in 100 people. Overall, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had reported a total of 49 West Nile virus in 2025 as of July 15. To protect yourself against the virus, the public health department recommends: Using an EPA-registered insect repellent, such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Limiting time outdoors during times of the day when mosquitoes are most active, typically around dusk and dawn. Wearing loose-fitted, long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially when outdoors around dusk and dawn. Use screens on windows and doors. Repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Individuals are also advised to frequently drain standing water from areas around the house, such as bird baths, portable pools, tires, planters, pet water dishes, and childrens swimming pools, as mosquitoes can lay eggs and grow in standing water. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) Some of the states best and brightest are in Morgantown this month for the West Virginia Governors Honor Academy. For two weeks, 120 rising seniors get to live on campus at West Virginia University and take classes in art, STEM, business and health sciences. 12 News sat in on a chemistry lab where the students were creating light-emitting diodes (LEDs) through a chemical reaction. 12 News asked some students about what theyve learned the past couple of weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Student Tanu Ellison from Monongalia County said she got to take a linguistic class earlier in camp and learn about the different dialects throughout the country. Earlier in the day, Ellison said she got to do evidence-gathering at a simulated crime scene for forensics class. Rescued barred owl released back into the wild in Randolph County Meeting like-minded people as me is really great and taking these college classes, preparing and getting me ready for next year, Victoria Singzon of Harrison County told 12 News. Clifford Drach of Monongalia County said that hes enjoyed meeting his fellow students who are from throughout the state, learning about what their families do from farming to coal mining and what the other students want to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WVU chemistry professor Dr. Michelle Richards-Babb is serving as the Associate Dean for the academy and told 12 News that she thinks the students are learning that college can be for them and everyone and that college can be a lot of fun. This years Governor Honor Academy wraps up on Saturday with the academic showcase. The academy is free and you can find out more information 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. YANCEY COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) A 21-year-old man has been arrested after investigators said he killed his father on Tuesday. The Yancey County Sheriffs Office said it was called Tuesday morning to the Ferguson Hill for an unspecified incident. Following an investigation, deputies arrested John Claude Charlton and charged him with the killing of his father, Virgil John Charlton. John Claude Charlton is currently being held in the Yancey County Detention Center under no bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident 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 WSPA 7NEWS. In the fall of 2016, Dr. Larry Rudolph, a successful Pittsburgh-area dentist, and his wife of 34 years, Bianca Rudolph, were on a safari vacation in Zambia. The couple frequently traveled to Africa to hunt big game, but this trip ended in tragedy: On the morning of Oct. 11, 2016, Bianca was found dead from a 12-gauge shotgun blast to the chest. Rudolph claimed that his wife had accidentally discharged the weapon herself while packing it away in its travel case. Zambian law enforcement agreed with this version of events, ruling Biancas death the result of an accidental discharge after a quick investigation. However, federal authorities in the U.S. were not convinced and ultimately accused Rudolph of murdering his wife so he could collect millions of dollars in life insurance and continue his years-long affair with his employee, Lori Milliron. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Rudolph and Milliron were ultimately convicted in the murder of Bianca with the former dentist receiving a sentence of life in prison, and his mistress getting 17 years. The couple maintain their innocence, and are both appealing their convictions. Now, a new docuseries from Hulu is taking a closer look at the tragic case. Trophy Wife: Murder on Safari, which premiered on July 21, is a three-part true crime series that dives deeper into Rudolphs murky past, his scandalous love triangle and the circumstances of Biancas suspicious death. So, where is Larry Rudolph now? Here is everything to know about the infamous dentist and his conviction. Who is Larry Rudolph? ABC/Hulu Larry Rudolph and Bianca Rudolph with their two children. Larry Rudolph and Bianca Rudolph with their two children. Lawrence Larry Rudolph started a popular dental practice in the Pittsburgh area in the 1980s after completing his graduate program at the University of Pittsburgh. Named The Dentistry, the practice promoted sedating patients before their dental treatments to ease any anxieties or fears a novel concept at the time, according to Rudolphs account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I saw early on that there was a profound fear of having dental care, Rudolph recounted in a recorded deposition seen in Hulus Trophy Wife. My goal was to do something quite unique at the time, and I sort of initiated the idea of sedation to have dental work done. Helping Rudolph build his practice was his wife, Bianca, whom he met at the University of Pittsburgh and married in 1982. The couple had two children together: A son, Julian, and a daughter named AnaBianca. We had a pretty traditional, East Coast, middle class upbringing, Julian shared in the Hulu documentary. We lived in the suburbs. My parents got along, seemed to love each other. I had a good upbringing, a peaceful home. But there was an alleged darker side to Rudolph, both personally and professionally. In the mid-2000s, his partners at The Dentistry accused him of supposedly stealing and embezzling money from the practice, per Rolling Stone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They allegedly agreed to not press charges or file any lawsuits if Rudolph exited The Dentistry, which he did. According to Rolling Stone, one of the partners, Dr. Tim Runco, says they gave Larry an ultimatum: Walk away, or were gonna press charges. Larry denied the embezzlement accusation and supposedly got his revenge by starting another successful dental practice, called Three Rivers Dental Group and located it directly across the street from his former partners. Who is Lori Milliron? ABC Larry Rudolph and Lori Milliron Larry Rudolph and Lori Milliron One of Rudolphs mistresses was Lori Milliron. She began working at The Dentistry in 2002, and according to Stephanie Moroz, Millirons daughter, Rudolph pursued her mother for a year before the two began their affair. I was reluctant, but after a little while, I slowly, slowly got to know him, Milliron shared in Trophy Wife. She eventually relented to Rudolphs pursuits and, despite knowing he was married, became the girlfriend, she said. When Rudolph started Three Rivers Dental Group, Milliron came with him and served as his office manager. The two not only maintained their working relationship over the years, but their illicit one as well with Rudolph taking Milliron to restaurants, conferences and on trips. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They weren't shy about where they went and if people would see them, Versmessen recalled in the Hulu documentary. One public trip, in particular, was when Rudolph brought Milliron with him to a convention hosted by the Safari Club International a prestigious hunting organization that both Rudolph and Bianca belonged to, with Rudolph even serving as its president. Showcasing his extramarital affair while holding a leadership position raised several eyebrows amongst Safari Club members, and ultimately led to his ousting from the organization. Following the Safari Club incident, Rudolph and Bianca moved from Pittsburgh to a Phoenix residence full-time, leaving Milliron to run Three Rivers Dental on her own. But the stress of maintaining a multi-office dental group and a long-distance affair eventually wore on Milliron and in 2015, she supposedly gave Rudolph an ultimatum. Lori was so tired of being on the side, Anna Grimley, a manager at Three Rivers, claimed in the Hulu docuseries. She wanted to have whatever she wanted and be able to show it off. She wanted Biancas life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grimley continued, She said that she gave Larry an ultimatum and that ultimatum was to get rid of Bianca ... She gave him one year. What happened to Bianca Rudolph? ABC Larry Rudolph and Bianca Rudolph Larry Rudolph and Bianca Rudolph Rudolph and his wife had a shared passion and talent for hunting. In October 2016, the couple embarked on a 10-day trip to Kafue National Park in Zambia, where Bianca was hoping to add a leopard to her list of trophies. She was one of the best hunters I've hunted with, Spencer Kakoma, a game scout with the Zambian Department of Parks and Wildlife, said about Bianca. She was killing animals with a single shot. On the morning of Oct. 11, the couple were preparing to return home to the U.S. when tragedy struck in the cabin where they were staying: Bianca was killed after being shot in the heart with her own 12-gauge shotgun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rudolph claimed that the firearm had accidentally discharged while he was in the shower and Bianca was packing the gun in its travel case. But local authorities had their doubts about Rudolphs version of events, particularly because the dentist was fully clothed (and not freshly wet from showering) when he discovered the body. Additionally, it is protocol for weapons to be cleared of all ammunition following a hunt and Kakoma said he witnessed Bianca doing so with her shotgun the night prior, according to CBS News. What also raised alarm bells for investigators was Rudolphs urgency to have his wifes body cremated. Within a day of discovering her body, the dentist attempted to have Bianca cremated in Zambia but when officials at the U.S. consulate got wind of this, they sent the consular chief to photograph the body before the cremation occurred. Despite suspicions of foul play from both U.S. and Zambian officials, local police declared Biancas death the result of an accidental discharge of a firearm. She was cremated and Rudolph returned to the U.S. with her remains. But while the investigation in Zambia was closed, one in the U.S. was just getting underway: The consular chief turned over his photos and notes to the FBI, according to CBS News, and a friend of Biancas also contacted the FBI shortly after her death to share her concerns that the wife and mother-of-two had been murdered. Did Larry Rudolph and Lori Milliron continue their relationship after Bianca Rudolphs death? Shortly after Biancas death, Milliron and Rudolph took their relationship to the next level. Within three months, she had moved into the Arizona home that he previously shared with Bianca, per The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I got a text message from Larry saying that there had been a terrible accident, Milliron recalled in Trophy Wife. At that point we started making a life together. Rudolph and Milliron began building a home in Arizona, paying $3.5 million in cash. The two frequently traveled together over the next several years, taking lavish vacations all over the world. It was truly, like, magical for a long time, Milliron said of her relationship with Rudolph. What crimes was Larry Rudolph eventually charged with? In December 2021, after a five-year investigation into Biancas death, federal authorities arrested Rudolph as he was traveling to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with Milliron for the holidays. He was charged with one count of murder of a U.S. national in a foreign country and one count of mail fraud, The New York Times reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation into Biancas death revealed that Rudolph had collected $4.9 million in life insurance policies that he had taken out on his wife. Additionally, a friend of Biancas informed the FBI of his ongoing affair with Milliron and claimed that Rudolph was never going to divorce her because he doesnt want to lose his money, and shes never going to divorce him because of her Catholicism, according to the federal complaint. In addition to the potential motives for murder, the federal investigation also illustrated that it would have been nearly impossible for Bianca to have shot herself, based on her height and the length of the shotgun. The size of the gunshot wound also indicated that Bianca had been shot from a distance of 6.5 to 8 feet, according to The New York Times. In addition to the evidence of motive the insurance proceeds and the possible desire to live openly with [a] girlfriend additional evidence gathered during the investigation supports [the] conclusion that there is probable cause to believe that Bianca Rudolph did not die by accident and was, rather, killed by Lawrence Rudolph, the complaint alleged. Was Larry Rudolph convicted? Facebook Larry Rudolph Rudolph maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges against him and insisting that his wife had been killed in a tragic accident. During his trial, which took place in July 2022, Rudolph told jurors, I did not kill my wife. I could not murder my wife. I would not murder my wife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a witness for the prosecution testified that he had overheard Rudolph making statements that indicated otherwise. According to Brian Lovelace, a bartender at a Phoenix steakhouse that Rudolph and Milliron frequented, he heard the dentist confessing to the crime during a heated argument between the couple. Larry and Lori were having a drink," federal prosecutor Bishop Grewell said during opening statements. The music in the background made it difficult for Brian Lovelace to hear the conversation going on around him, but at some point, all of a sudden, the music stopped. And in that brief interlude, that brief silence between the songs, Larry Rudolph growled, I killed my f------ wife for you! Rudolph insisted during his testimony that Lovelace had misheard him, and what he actually said was, Now they're saying I killed my f------ wife for you. Rudolphs lawyers also argued that he and Bianca had an open relationship, and that the dentist had no financial motivation to commit murder. But in the end, the jurors decided to convict Rudolph on both charges. After a three-week-long trial, he was found guilty of murdering his wife and committing mail fraud. What was Larry Rudolph's sentence? AP Photo/David Zalubowski The son, left, and daughter, back right, of Pittsburgh dentist Lawrence "Larry" Rudolph head into federal court for the afternoon session of the trial, July 13, 2022, in Denver. The son, left, and daughter, back right, of Pittsburgh dentist Lawrence "Larry" Rudolph head into federal court for the afternoon session of the trial, July 13, 2022, in Denver. In August 2023, one year after Rudolphs conviction, the former dentist was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife. He also received a sentence of 20 years for filing fraudulent life insurance claims, The New York Times reported, which would be served concurrently. In addition to his jail time, Rudolph was ordered to pay back the $4,877,744 he collected in life insurance, plus a fine of $2 million. He was also required to forfeit any assets obtained following the crime. This result shows that no matter how much money, prestige, or power you have, you will be held accountable for your crimes, U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan said in a statement following Rudolphs sentencing. The fact that justice arrived today is no accident. It was part of a dedicated effort by public servants committed to the cause of justice. We are grateful to the attorneys, staff, and investigators who made todays result possible. Rudolphs lawyers, however, maintained his innocence following the sentencing and indicated their plan to appeal. Where is Larry Rudolph now? Facebook Bianca and Larry Rudolph Bianca and Larry Rudolph According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Rudolph is currently serving his life sentence at the United States Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Ind. The high security facility has held several infamous prisoners, including Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh, the shooter in the 2015 Charleston church massacre, Dylann Roof, and Robert Gregory Bowers, who was convicted of the 2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting. Rudolph will remain imprisoned for the rest of his life without the possibility of parole. In April 2023, a Denver federal judge denied Rudolph a new trial, despite his lawyers arguing the presence of newly discovered evidence, the Denver Gazette reported. His lawyer, David Markus, continues to pursue an appeal of his conviction, according to Trophy Wife. Where is Lori Milliron now? Milliron was also indicted in the death of Bianca, after prosecutors deemed her testimony before a grand jury in January 2022 dishonest. They charged her with obstruction of justice, perjury and being an accessory after the fact to murder, and she was tried alongside Rudolph in July 2022. Following the three-week trial, Milliron was found guilty of being an accessory after the fact to murder, obstruction and two counts of perjury. The jury acquitted her of three other counts of perjury, according to the Department of Justice. Milliron was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison in June 2023. At her sentencing hearing, Judge William J. Martinez said evidence showed she had been encouraging Rudolph to commit the crime and added that she appeared unrepentant while hearing testimony about the killing and seeing graphic photos of the scene. Millirons former attorney, John Dill, told PEOPLE that he felt both his client and Rudolphs sentences were excessive. Our plan remains to push Ms. Millirons case through appeal and exonerate her, Dill added at the time. However, as of July 2025, Dill is no longer licensed to practice law, the Hulu docuseries revealed. Millirons appeal is now being managed by a new lawyer, Robert T. Fishman. She is currently incarcerated at FCI Marianna, a medium security facility in Marianna, Fla. Milliron's release date is listed as April 15, 2036. Read the original article on People Local news has been on the decline for decades. Between evolving business models, new technology, media conglomeration and fractured attention spans of audiences armed with hand-held supercomputers, its been a tough run for coverage of town halls, school board meetings and municipal governments. Efforts to track this move away from local news mostly focused on the number of outlets across the country that cover local issues and events. That is, until earlier this year, when a study was published determining how many fewer reporters are actually working local beats. The numbers, while not surprising, are still staggering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of reporters covering local issues has gone down by more than 75% since 2002. At that time, there were roughly 40 reporters per 100,000 community members; today, its a mere eight. Just think about that. Per 100,000 residents, eight people are telling people whats going on in their community, whats going on with their school board, their local government, all of this, said Matt Albasi, the data reporter at Muck Rack, the journalism PR company, who worked on the project. Therere people who arent able to know whats going on in their communities because theres no one there whose job it is to tell them. And so its just this huge national problem. The Local Journalism Index 2025 is a joint project between Muck Rack, a PR company that manages a digital database of journalists, and Rebuild Local News, a nonprofit advocacy group for local journalism in America. The idea was to do a census of local journalists, Albasi said, in order to get a fuller picture of the health of American journalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local journalists are the surrogates for their community, he said. Theyre the people who get to go out there, watch whats going on, see whether its good for us and tell the public about it. So it really comes down to, do you want to know whats going on in your neighborhood? If so, you need local journalists." Muck Rack monitors more than 600,000 media outlets every day, analyzing approximately 3.5 million individual articles. Its given them ample data from which to determine who was covering what, and where and for whom over the last 22 years. The project found that there are more than 1,000 counties in the U.S. that do not even have a single journalist covering local issues. That means that more than 20 million Americans are without some form of reporting on the people and institutions that are making decisions closest to their day-to-day lives. But, unlike any data on the diminishment of local news outlets, what the study found is that local issues are being overlooked in all varieties of communities, cities and states. The whole country has significantly less access to local reporting than it did before the major technological changes of the turn of the last century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not like we only see this in rural communities and urban ones are doing great. Its not like we only see this in communities that are shrinking in population, Albasi said. We see it in communities that are growing as well. Vermont has the largest ratio of local reporters per 100,000 population with 27, but that is still far fewer than the 40 it used to be. Utah is ranked in the top 50%, but at 16th is also not doing well with a ratio of 10.1 reporters per 100,000. However, when compared to its Western neighbor Nevada, its doing great. That state only has two major news markets, in Reno and Las Vegas, with 4.8 reporters per 100,000 across the state. What makes Utahs numbers better than Nevadas, Albasi said, was its plethora of radio and TV options and wide varieties of smaller markets with their own local media organizations. The general media market of Utah includes more and is therefore conducive to local reporting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But among large cities there are issues, too. Among some of the largest cities in the country, nine of them including Los Angeles, Phoenix and Houston are severely undercovered. Some have less than four journalists per 100,000 people, and all have less than five. There are whole counties like York, South Carolina, and Onslow, North Carolina, which do not have a single journalist for populations of 298,320 and 213,676, respectively. There are bright spots in this data, Albasi points out, such as Hooker County, Nebraska. That small town has a single reporter at its only outlet, the Hooker County Tribune, which has 726 subscribers for a population of 679 people. Basically everyone in town and then some subscribes to that outlet, Albasi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not just the more extreme examples like Hooker County that have lower population density and higher ratios of reporters. For example, Wyoming and Montana rank second and third, respectively, on the list of states. Remote places that have fewer people, Albasi said, often have more direct connections to their local news for a variety of reasons. People there are going to rely on local stores and local businesses a lot more for their day-to-day needs, he said. That also means that those local businesses are going to want to advertise and get in front of the local residents a lot more." Albasi, who bought and managed a local newspaper in his hometown with several friends after college, shared his hope that some people might see the projects results as an opportunity to stem this tide of fewer local journalists in America. Better yet, they might see it as a call to arms, of sorts, to start covering local events in writing, audio, video, however. I dont think everyones going to pick up the pen and become a local journalist next week, Abasi said. But I do hope that a few people look at this map, and rather than seeing it as something to be defeated by, see it as something that they can change." New Yorks top Democrats are moving cautiously when it comes to newly minted mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani, slow-walking their interactions with the youthful progressive candidate and so far holding off on endorsing him. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Sen. Chuck Schumer and Gov. Hochul, the partys three most powerful leaders in the state, appear to be following a shared playbook regarding Mamdani in the month since he trounced ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary to become the partys standard-bearer in the November general election. At a time in the campaign cycle when normally they would have already endorsed the winner of the Democratic primary, the trio is instead focusing on building their relationships with Mamdani and laying the foundation to potentially back him at some point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of the power threesome has said if or when they may formally declare their backing for the charismatic Queens assemblyman, who this week is on a family trip to Uganda, the country of his birth. Mamdani is the favorite in the November mayoral election, in which he will run on the Democratic and Working Families Party lines. Hell face Republican Curtis Sliwa along with incumbent Eric Adams and Cuomo, both of whom are running as independents. Jeffries, the House minority leader, met with Mamdani last Friday at an office space in East New York, Brooklyn. He said the meeting went well, but he dodged questions at a news conference Tuesday about a possible endorsement. At the meeting on Friday, we agreed to reconvene with other members of the delegation and high-level members of the community upon [Mamdanis] return to the country, Jeffries told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schumer, the Senate minority leader, praised Mamdani in a post on X after his primary victory, calling his campaign a healthy jolt of energy to Democrats with its laser focus on affordability. He has spoken with Mamdani briefly by phone in what aides called an effort to lay the groundwork for a future face-to-face meeting in the city. A spokesman for Schumer said the senator and Mamdani were targeting August for a meeting when the Senate is in recess and Mamdani will be back from Africa, and before Labor Day, which marks the start of the campaigns homestretch. The senior Democrat hasnt given any indication when he might make an endorsement decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Schumer and Jeffries are strong supporters of Israel and have in the past denounced progressive critics of the Jewish state like Mamdani. They have both objected to the controversial phrase globalize the intifada, which Mamdani has refused to denounce but has said he would encourage supporters to avoid. Its unclear how much Israel-Palestine politics may influence the heavyweights endorsement calculus, if at all. As for Hochul, the pair have more of a history because Mamdani has often criticized the moderate governor during his three terms in Albany. But both camps have discussed burying the hatchet since the primary and stressed their shared commitment to lowering costs for everyday New Yorkers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochul and Mamdani have spoken several times since the primary and met once on the sidelines of the citys Pride march on June 29. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand was forced to apologize to Mamdani after she seemed to agree with a caller on a radio show who accused him of being antisemitic. Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) told Mamdani she was sorry for mischaracterizing his record and for her tone. Like Schumer, she also fired back at congressional Republicans who vilified Mamdani as a terrorist or supporter of Hamas. Like other leaders, she said they plan to meet in New York soon, but gave no details on an endorsement decision. Donald Trump said that AI companies cant be expected to pay for the use of copyrighted content in their systems, amid a fierce debate over the use of intellectual property in training models. Speaking at the AI Summit on Wednesday, Trump said: You cant be expected to have a successful AI program when every single article, book or whatever youve studied youre expected to pay for. We appreciate that, but you just cant do that because its not do-able. And if youre going to try and do that, youre not going to have a successful program. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump called for what he characterized as common sense artificial and intellectual property rules, saying that the U.S. cant afford to fall behind China, which does not have strong IP protections. When a person reads a book or an article, youve gained great knowledge. That does not mean that youre violated copyright laws or have to make deals with every content provider, he said. You just cant do it. Chinas not doing it. His speech was to mark the White Houses release of an AI Action Plan that prioritizes building out the countrys AI capabilities, including data centers and other support, while removing regulatory barriers. RELATED: Senators Introduce Bill To Restrict AI Companies Unauthorized Use Of Copyrighted Works For Training Models The plan is a contrast to Trumps predecessor, Joe Biden, who focused on the governments role in ensuring that the technology was safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump White House plan also recommends updating federal procurement guidelines to ensure that the government only contracts with frontier large language model (LLM) developers who ensure that their systems are objective and free from top-down ideological bias. Also recommended is revising the National Institute of Standards and Technology AI Risk Management Framework to remove references to misinformation, DEI and climate change. We must ensure that free speech flourishes in the era of AI and that AI procured by the Federal government objectively reflects truth rather than social engineering agendas, the plan says. Unmentioned in the plan, though, is copyright, and the concerns among content creators over the way that their material is being used in training models. That has led to numerous lawsuits against authors and studios like Disney and NBCUniversal against AI firms. RELATED: Amazon To Invest Another $100M In AWS Generative AI Innovation Center On Monday, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) unveiled legislation that would require AI companies to get the consent of individuals before using their content and data in developing AI systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trumps remarks reflected opposition to such an approach. OpenAI has signed licensing deals with companies like News Corp. the the Associated Press for their content, but the tech industry has argued that using content in training models is a fair use. Trump said, When you have something, and when you read something, and when it goes into this vast intelligence machine, well call it, you cannot expect to every time, every single time, say, Lets pay this one that much. It just doesnt work that way. Of course, you cant copy or plagiarize an article, but if you read an article and learn from it, we have to allow AI to use that pool of knowledge without going through the complexity of contract negotiations. Trump during his AI speech calls for making America's intellectual property laws more like China's pic.twitter.com/3coALk4kQC Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 23, 2025 The AI Action Plan does make mention of the risk of deepfakes, whether they be audio recordings, videos of photos. The plan cites the recently passed Take It Down Act, which was championed by First Lady Melania Trump. It was aimed at curbing sexually explicit, non-consensual deepfakes, and the AI Plan cites the need for additional action. Specifically named is establishing formal guidelines and a voluntary forensic framework for use when judging the veracity of evidence in legal proceedings. Even though the plan does not have the same focus on safety that Bidens approach did, the White House AI proposals do outline the risks in areas like national security and individual privacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States must lead the creation of the worlds largest and highest quality AI-ready scientific datasets, while maintaining respect for individual rights and ensuring civil liberties, privacy, and confidentiality protections, the plan states. The plan also takes aim at state regulation, stating that the federal government should not allow AI-related federal funding to be directed toward states with burdensome AI regulations that waste these funds, but should also not interfere with states rights to pass prudent laws that are not unduly restrictive to innovation. Its recommended that the FCC review state laws and the FTC look at final orders, consent decrees and injunctions that unduly burden AI innovation. In his speech, Trump said that the U.S. has to have a single federal standard, not 50 different states regulating this industry of the future. The office of California Gov. Gavin Newsom dinged Trump on the AI plans attack on state laws, noting that it threatens to defund states like California with strong laws against AI-generated child porn. Some might say thats an interesting priority particularly in light of his close ties to Jeffrey Epstein. President Trumps Executive Order on #AI threatens to defund states like California with strong laws against AI-generated child porn. Some might say thats an interesting priority particularly in light of his close ties to Jeffrey Epstein. https://t.co/lnI9nA6dxQ pic.twitter.com/Y4w2wzlBrJ Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) July 23, 2025 Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The White House intends to send Capitol Hill a second request to claw back congressionally-approved funding this time targeting the Department of Education, according to a White House aide granted anonymity to share plans not yet made public. Less than a week after congressional Republicans approved the administration's first rescissions package to slash $9 billion for public broadcast and foreign aid, the White House aide said Tuesday that lawmakers would soon receive President Donald Trumps next round of desired funding cuts to education programs. The Daily Signal first reported earlier Tuesday that education funding would be in the mix for the next package, though its not yet clear how much money the administration will ask Congress to rescind or when the request will formally be sent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a brief interview Tuesday, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise also would not disclose specifics about the forthcoming package, but confirmed talks between GOP leaders and the administration on the matter are well underway. We havent made a final decision on what will be in the second rescissions package, but were of course talking about it, Scalise said. The administration is very interested in it. Scalise added that the Trump administration is having talks with appropriators and will ultimately decide when to send it over and whats in it: But nothing starts until they send us an actual document. Speaker Mike Johnson told Republicans in recent days this second package wont be as big as the first, according to two people granted anonymity to share details of private discussions. Many congressional Republicans are still reeling from the recissions bill they managed to pass and send to Trumps desk with just hours to spare before the deadline to act, or force the administration to spend the money as Congress originally intended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also was an excruciating exercise for a slew of them who wanted to oppose the measure to assert Congress power of the purse but didnt want to be crosswise with Trump. Scalise, on the other hand, said hes hoping Republicans will do it all over again enthusiasm shared by a broad swatch of fiscal hawks in both chambers. Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.), the chair of the House Freedom Caucus, said in an interview Tuesday he was looking forward to receiving so-called pocket rescissions from the administration. White House budget chief Russ Vought has been saying hes interesting in deploying the tactic where he would send Congress funding to cut less than 45 days out from a government funding deadline on Sept. 30 and, if Congress didnt take action, the money would immediately be revoked come Oct. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As long as the administration sends them by Aug. 15, then Congress doesnt need to do anything, Harris said. Vought also said last week that a second request to rescind congressionally approved spending was likely coming soon, and had previously suggested to Senate appropriators that education programs were on the table. While the administration said it would send states approximately $1.3 billion in approved funding for summer and afterschool programs on Monday, billions of dollars in pending federal aid to schools are still being withheld by the White House amid an ongoing spending review. Last week, administration officials told lawmakers and state authorities that final decisions related to the remaining portion of approximately $7 billion in education funds devoted to teacher training, migrant student education and other initiatives have not been made as they continue to be reviewed as part of Trumps broader agenda of scrutinizing programs related to immigration and LGBTQ+ issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These are the programs that we have some of the gravest concerns with regarding the Education Department," Vought told reporters last week during an event hosted by the Christian Science Monitor. "You have a preschool program that doesn't do any preschool funding, all it does is indoctrination of four-year-olds of [critical race theory]," Vought added. "You have school improvement programs that are indoctrinating teachers to be cultural revolutionaries in the classroom. So we have concerns with these programs, so they're the ones that we're going to study the most." Meredith Lee Hill and Katherine Tully-McManus contributed to this report. This article was originally published in CalMatters. This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. California after-school and summer programs will get some of their funding back after the federal government said on Friday that it would restore grants it had previously withheld. But the money is contingent on states complying with Civil Rights laws a cudgel the White House has used in the past to crack down on diversity efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a big relief, said Heather Williams, director of policy and outreach for the California AfterSchool Network. The funding freeze was very disruptive and there was a level of chaos. Were hopeful that anyone that canceled or paused programs can jump back in. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The U.S. Department of Education announced on June 30 a day before the money was set to be released it would not give out grant money for after-school programs, migrant education, English learners, professional development for teachers and other programs, pending a review of whether the programs were in line with President Donald Trumps priorities. The funding freeze affected nearly every school in the state, particularly those that serve low-income children. In all, the White House withheld nearly $7 billion in education funds, including about $800 million for California. The money had already been approved by Congress, leading California and 24 other states to sue for the funds to be released. Theres been no ruling yet on that suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California was due $147 million in after-school grants. When the money didnt come through, schools and nonprofits such as the YMCA, which also provide after-school and summer programs to children, had to lay off staff and cancel programs if they couldnt find money to keep the programs going on their own. On Friday, the White House sent an email to states saying that after-school grants would be released under the condition that schools not use the money in any manner that violates the United States Constitution, the Civil Rights Act or other laws. The U.S. Department of Education did not return emails seeking clarification. Other grants, such as those for migrant students, remain frozen. In the White Houses earlier attempts to roll back diversity programs in schools, it often cited the Civil Rights Act as a rationale, saying that initiatives that favor certain student groups are inherently discriminatory. Most schools in California have at least some diversity programs, whether its Cinco de Mayo celebrations, Black Student Unions or special graduation ceremonies for Native American students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State education officials were not available for comment on Monday. Urgent need to release all funds In Humboldt County, school districts had to shuffle their budgets to keep summer programs open after the funds were frozen on July 1. Although its a welcome relief to have the money restored, its not close to being enough, said County Superintendent Michael Davies-Hughes. Schools need all the money thats been frozen, not just the after-school funds, he said. We need the whole package, urgently, he said. If we dont have the money, well have districts moving toward insolvency. I implore the federal administration to understand that these programs are not optional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cutting federal grants hurts all students, he said, but especially those who are low-income because those students dont have a lot of other options, he said. Federally funded summer programs help students stay on track academically and socially while their parents work; losing those programs has an outsized detrimental effect on the most vulnerable students, he said. Meanwhile, schools are also contending with declining enrollment and other funding cuts. Weve already trimmed the fat. Now were looking at limbs and organs, Davies-Hughes said. And we have to keep the organs. The release of after-school grant money is good news for this summers programs, but a bigger concern is next year, Williams said. The recent federal budget bill did not include after-school funding, and Trump has said he wants to eliminate the program next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal money is a relatively small but important part of Californias overall after-school funding. The state contributed more than $1.8 billion to after-school programs last year, which allowed most elementary students in California to attend after-school and summer programs for free or for steep discounts. But high school programs are a different story. Federal grants are the only source of funding for high school after-school programs, which are a key part of career and technical education pathways. This article was originally published on CalMatters and was republished under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license. Elon Musk's xAI recently announced "Grok for Government." They AI company already has a contract with the Pentagon and could contract with other agencies. A White House spokesperson suggested on Wednesday that Trump doesn't support that. President Donald Trump may be at odds with his own administration over Elon Musk's AI company. When White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt was asked by a reporter on Wednesday whether the president supported federal agencies contracting with Musk's xAI, she indicated that he does not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't think so, no," Leavitt replied. That's despite the Department of Defense recently announcing a contract of up to $200 million with the company. "I'll talk to him about it," Leavitt replied when asked whether Trump would like to see existing contracts cancelled. The White House did not respond to requests for clarification of Leavitt's comments. xAI did not immediately return a request for comment. xAI recently launched a suite of government-focused products called "Grok for Government," saying that other federal agencies can purchase those tools through the General Services Administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After forging a political alliance that lasted for nearly a year, Trump and Musk's relationship blew up in early June over the tech titan's objections to the deficit impacts of the "Big Beautiful Bill." One of Musk's other major companies, SpaceX, still has contracts with the federal government despite the feud. Read the original article on Business Insider Donald Trumps intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard took over the White House briefing room Wednesday to continue pressing her narrative about a coup supposedly launched by Barack Obama. The latest conspiracy has been pressed by both Gabbard and President Donald Trump since the weekend as the administration returns to the Russiagate investigation as an apparent diversion while Trump is facing uproar from his base over his administrations efforts to tamp down on speculation surrounding the death and crimes of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted pedophile. In early July, the Department of Justice and FBI declared in a joint statement that no client list detailing Epsteins co-conspirators could be found within the DOJs files; the statement also reiterated the agencies conclusion that Epstein died by suicide in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, the presidents weeks-long effort to find a distraction to turn his bases focus from that statement resulted in the director of the U.S. intelligence community declaring behind the White House podium that former President Obama ordered intelligence assessments to be doctored to include the assertion that Russia was working directly to elect Trump. Gabbard called the investigation into Trumps 2016 campaign a years-long coup orchestrated by the former president, something that Obama dismissively rejected in a rare statement this week condemning the Trump administrations latest claims. Director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard accused Barack Obama of launching a 'coup' over intelligence committee assessments of Russian interference in U.S. elections (AFP/Getty) There is irrefutable evidence that detailed how President Obama and his national security team directed the creation of an intelligence community assessment that they knew was false, Gabbard told reporters. They manufactured findings from shoddy sources, they suppressed evidence and credible intelligence that disproved their false claims. They disobeyed traditional trade craft intelligence community standards, and withheld the truth from the American people, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In doing so, they conspired to subvert the will of the American people, she continued, later asserting that the supposedly serious changes to ODNI assessments (which in reality do not show a difference in conclusion) amounted to a years long coup against the incoming president United States, Donald Trump. Gabbards report, released last week, closely followed an article from the Wall Street Journal purporting to contain a note from Trump to Epstein as part of the latters 50th birthday celebration in 2003. The note, framed as an imagined dialogue between the two men, alludes to a shared secret between the two. The U.S. president strongly denied the notes authenticity and swiftly filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the WSJ, its parent company News Corp and founder Rupert Murdoch, among others. With the Jeffrey Epstein saga consuming more and more of the media atmosphere every day, the White House turned late last week to Barack Obama and the FBI investigation into his first campaign for the presidency as Trumps aides seek to move the news cycle along. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The memo authored by Gabbard last week, which she summarized on Tuesday, accuses the Obama administration of lying to the American public about Russias supposed interest in seeing Trump elected. In reality, straight-news coverage of the 2016 election largely centered around the reality, verified by both the FBIs special counsel investigation headed up by Robert Mueller and a bipartisan probe conducted by the Senate Intelligence Committee. Russian-backed hackers struck the servers of the Democratic National Committee in 2016, then published those materials online in an effort to damage the candidacy of Hillary Clinton. Russian influence campaigns on social media spanned a wide range of efforts including backing Trump, opposing Clinton, and disseminating misinformation. Gabbards memo also mischaracterized the general assessment of the American intelligence community in 2016: that Russian intelligence agents had not attemped to directly influence vote totals through the hacking of election infrastructure, a finding which her office seemed to conflate with an absence of any Russian influence efforts altogether. Former President Barack Obama has released a rare statement on 'Russia-gate' after President Donald Trump accused him of committing 'treason.' (Scott Olson/Getty Images) On Wednesday, the director of national intelligence backed away from that conflation entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted that it was the Trump administrations view that Russian actors had interfered in the 2016 election through the use of social media botnets and other means to sow distrust and chaos, but without any clear goal or motive. There was no explanation to what end Russia was supposedly sowing distrust and chaos, by hacking the servers of one major political party and not the other, if not with the aim of benefiting the party not forced to explain damaging internal emails which fueled accusations from Clintons critics in the party that the DNC establishment favored her. Gabbard also dodged questions about what steps the Trump administration would take from here, or why the president and his allies had waited until statutes of limitations had likely expired on any criminal charges that could rise from the matter (were Trumps allegations of misconduct actually true). She referred questions about possible criminal charges to the Department of Justice and Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose own future in the administration is already on possibly shaky ground as the criticism of her declaration about the Epstein case continues to fester. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither she nor Leavitt could explain why the Senate Intelligence Committee (including now-Secretary of State Marco Rubio) did not find that the Obama administration had improperly changed any ODNI assessments in its report released in 2020. Justice Department officials have been notably quiet amid the clamoring from the White House for retribution against Obama and top members of his administration, including Clinton, his director of national intelligence James Clapper, and FBI director James Comey. Bondi has announced no plans to launch a new investigation into the matter, and Gabbard herself can only refer evidence to the DOJ for review. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is leaving town early this week to dodge a vote on a bipartisan resolution that would force the administration to release the Epstein files, and Trump is increasingly swinging at longer and longer lists of his perceived foes as the pressure from his base ramps up and accusations of a cover-up grow louder. In a now-deleted Truth Social post, Trump even bashed his supporters who support calls to investigate Epsteins accomplices weak and claimed he didnt need their support. What kind of person would unquestioningly believe that British Jewish children are taught that one Jewish life is worth thousands of Arab lives and that Arabs are cockroaches to be crushed? Step forward James OBrien, LBCs prince of the bien pensant. Today, the radio presenter received a message from a listener calling himself Chris who made these overtly anti-Semitic claims. OBrien apparently duly repeated them on air without so much as a hows your father, prefaced by the baffling statement: Im fascinated by objectivity, which is why Im going to read out this from Chris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The listeners message began by pointing out that warped views are not just an Israeli problem. What? So its OK now to smear an entire nation as holding warped views? The fact that this alone did not set off alarm bells in OBriens mind was worrying enough. Make such a claim about any other people and the author of How To Be Right would surely be the very first to cry racist. But that was only the prelude. Chris went on to extend this Israeli problem to include Jews in this country as well as their cousins in Tel Aviv. My wife was brought up Jewish and at shabbat school in a leafy Hertfordshire town his message continued. Lets press pause again there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one thing, it just sounded phony. My wife was brought up Jewish? Yeah, right. But the mention of a shabbat school was hilarious. There is, of course, no such thing. Jews do not go to school on the sabbath. These red flags also fluttered too high above OBriens head for him to notice. He continued to read out the message to his 1.5 million listeners. Thus, middle Britain was treated, in OBriens honeyed tones, to Chriss claim that at shabbat school, his wife had been introduced to the aforementioned bigotry towards Arabs. The fact that OBrien at no point realised the nature of what he was reading is downright disturbing. Lets make this absolutely clear. Of the 15 million Jews in the world, youll be hard pressed to find any who holds such repugnant views of anybody, including Arabs. Attend any pro-Israel rally and youll never hear anything like it. Especially not in Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is true that a handful of extremists, especially in Israel, sometimes chant disgraceful things about their enemies. Jews have their thugs and nutters just like any other people. But these are in the vanishingly small minority, like the BNP in Britain. To suggest that this amounts to an institutional indoctrination, akin to the brainwashing in Gaza, is quite obviously an anti-Semitic lie. Obvious, at least, to anybody with common sense. In concluding his shameful monologue, OBrien intoned: Whilst young children are being taught such hatred and dehumanisation, undoubtedly on both sides, as Chris points out, then they will always be able to justify death and cruelty. He added: There is a danger, perhaps, that we only ever hear one side of the dehumanisation and propaganda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No, there isnt. Not everything has two sides, James. There is such a thing as right and wrong. Obviously Israel, being a real-life country in the real world, isnt perfect; obviously it has its own extremists and criminals, like every other state on Earth. But there should be no equivalence between Israel and Hamas. Think of the scenes on October 7, when the half-naked corpses of Jewish women were paraded through Gaza while mobs spat at them, jeered and beat them with sticks. Could you imagine such a thing happening in Tel Aviv? Could you imagine Israelis cheering as children and the elderly were taken hostage? Of course not. But I wonder whether OBrien can. Maybe I shouldnt be so surprised. In 2014 and 2015, the author of How They Broke Britain gave vast amounts of airtime to the bogus claims of the VIP sex ring based on testimony by Carl Beech, who was later imprisoned both for sex offences and for perverting the course of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He later expressed regret. But in August last year, he caused outrage by praising a video on social media that blamed Zionist backers for the Southport riots. He later claimed not to have watched the clip in full and condemned it. A certain pattern is emerging here. As inexplicable as it might be, OBrien has a huge listenership and more than a million followers on social media. LBC has removed the warped views clip from the internet. For untold numbers of people, however, the damage has already been done. 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. Ground beef on display at a supermarket in North Carolina on July 8, 2025 Credit - Lindsey NicholsonGetty Images For many Americans, the cost of ground beef is starting to weigh down their weekly shopping baskets. Ground beef prices rose by 10.3% in June, when compared to the same time last year, surpassing $6 per pound. The price of steak rose by 12.4% within this period. Egg prices have been through a rollercoaster ride. And now with beef, were seeing quite a significant price rise, says David Ortega, a food economist and professor at Michigan State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, egg prices skyrocketed, more than doubling in price in April when compared to March 2024. The sharp increase was caused by bird influenza outbreaks on American farms, which infected over 23 million birds that had to be culled. As of early July, egg prices have since fallen back down to $3.78 per dozen from $6.23 in April. Over the past 12 months, food prices as a whole have only risen by 2.7%, so what is causing this sharp increase in the price of ground beef? Heres a breakdown of whats behind the soaring prices: Cattle herd sizes are at a record low Although the demand for ground beef products remains high in the U.S., the supply is facing a squeeze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cattle herd sizes are at the lowest they have been for almost 75 years, with just under 87 million cattle and calves recorded across the country at the start of 2025, according to the American Farmers Bureau Federation (AFBF). AFBF economist Bernt Nelson has said that prices for feed steers (cattle bred for slaughter) have reached record highs, encouraging farmers to sell their cattle for meat production instead of breeding. High cattle prices combined with the unpredictability of future prices and profitability could compel farmers to continue marketing a higher percentage of females for beef rather than breeding, he said in a February blog post. And as farmers still struggle to make profit despite high prices, they may decide to sell off their remaining cattle due to slim margins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even with these record high prices, margins for cattle farmers and ranchers are razor-thin thanks to continued elevated supply costs, Nelson said in May. One of the main high costs getting in the way of sustainable profit for cattle ranchers is that of feed for their herds, and this links back to adverse weather conditions brought on by climate change. Read More: Why Were Eggs So Expensive in April? Drought driven by climate change One of the main drivers has been the effects of climate change on beef production in the U.S. This is something that doesn't cause prices to rise overnight, so there's a considerable lag involved, says Ortega. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A significant drought took place across the Great Plain states in 2022, forcing a lot of cattle farms to sell their livestock. What that [drought] does is increase feed cost for producers, Ortega notes. A lot of the sold livestock, often slaughtered and turned into beef products, includes breeding stock, meaning that in the long-term there is less capacity to breed new cows to keep up with consumer demand. If you couple that with the strong demand for beef, and there has been strong demand in particular for ground beef, because it is a very familiar product to consumers, it really puts a lot of pressure on prices, and that's why we've seen the increases, says Ortega. Uncertainty due to tariffs and concern over what might happen in the future Ortega says he believes that tariffs are starting to play a role in the rise of beef prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite a lot of domestic production, the U.S. still imports significant amounts of beef, particularly more lean trimmings. These trimmings are important for ground beef products. We import a lot of lean trimmings from countries like [Australia] and Brazil, and that is in order to be able to blend this with our beef that tends to be fattier, and so we can make the proper blends in terms of fat content, Ortega says. President Donald Trump threatened earlier this month to install a 50% tariff against Brazil for what he described as a witch hunt against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is facing allegations that he planned to stay in power despite losing the 2022 Brazilian election. If these do go into effect, or even higher tariffs [are implemented], then I think we're going to see a notable further increase on things like ground beef and hamburger meat, Ortega says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazil, the worlds largest exporter of beef, saw a rise in sales of meat to the U.S. this year after a trade war between Washington, D.C., and Beijing escalated. In May, Brazilian exports to the U.S. rose by 20%, and current imports from the country are almost double what they were in June 2024, according to the USDA. With beef imports rising by 10% over the past year, a higher U.S. dependency on the product from abroad puts it more at risk should tariffs increase, particularly on top exporters to the U.S., the largest being Canada. The U.S and Canada are currently in the midst of trade negotiations, with Trump most recently threatening a 35% tariff on all Canadian goods starting Aug. 1. Global supply chains of beef have already been disrupted as a result of looming trade wars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a tremendous amount of uncertainty on the policy and trade front, Ortega says, arguing that it has contributed to such price increases. According to experts, even the slightest change within the beef market, as a result of tariffs, could further impact prices. Tariff-induced trade wars are sowing uncertainty for both ranchers and consumers alike. This has the potential to impact demand for beef, and even small changes in demand with such tight supplies could have a big impact on prices, said Nelson. Read More: Why Tomatoes Are Becoming a Lot More Expensive How long will consumers feel the impact of these price increases? When asked about when grocery shoppers could see prices start to fall, Ortega calls this the million dollar question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our research shows that it could be four years or so after significant drought before prices for the consumer start to stabilize, Ortega says. Other price fluctuations, such as when eggs were reaching record-high prices earlier this year, were more predictable as they were due to bird influenza outbreaks. But as theres more at play regarding the ground beef price hikes, its harder to know when things will settle. Correction, July 24. The original version of this story misquoted David Ortega twice. He said, What that [drought] does is increase feed cost for producers, not What that [drought] does is erases feed for producers, and Our research shows that it could be four years or so after significant drought before prices for the consumer start to stabilize, not Our research shows that it could be four years or so before prices for the consumer start to stabilize. A quote also misstated a key exporter of lean trimmings from beef to the United States. It is Australia, not South Africa. Contact us at letters@time.com. The fighting in the Syrian city of Sweida appears to have finally come to an end this week after the last of several declared cease-fires took hold. The Druze and Bedouin militias that fought each other at the cost of some 1,200 lives agreed to lay down their arms and exchange prisoners. Syrian security forces were taking control of the area as President Ahmed al-Sharaa pledged to protect Syrias ethnic and religious minorities and prosecute those driving the violence. Israel, which said it had stepped in to defend the Druze, had already ended its bombing campaign a few days earlier and as of Monday was delivering medical supplies to Sweida. However, no one seriously expects this will be the last outburst of sectarian violence in Syria. Militants inside and outside the government are opposed to the presidents efforts to create a religiously tolerant society aligned with the West. The Sharaa governments grip on the country is tenuous, and much of Syria remains in the hands of local militias distrustful of the new rulers. All that presents a dilemma for Israel as it navigates a new Middle East balance of power that, in theory at least, gives it the ability to act where it sees fit. Syria is ripe for Israeli intervention again. Throughout nearly 14 years of civil war in Syria, Israel stood aloof, limiting its military activity to striking Iranian arms destined for Hezbollah and providing some low-key assistance to the Druze and Kurdish minorities. That suddenly changed last December, when Sharaas forces toppled the regime of Bashar al-Assad. Israel seized the demilitarized zone along the Syrian border and the strategic summit of Mount Hermon, while its air force attacked Syrian army installations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared southern Syria (the area adjacent to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and where most of Syrias Druze live) a no-go zone, not only to militias but to the Syrian army. But it wasnt just the regime change in Damascus that altered Israels approach to Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Decades ago, Israeli Prime Minister Levi Eshkol characterized Israels perception of itself politically and militarily in the Middle East as Shimshon der nebechdiker, Yiddish for Samson the weakling (in contrast to his image in the Bibles Book of Judges, where Samson is renowned for his physical strength). On the one hand, Israel has been militarily more powerful than any of its enemies since the 1960s; on the other hand, it feels that its very existence is constantly under threat. Since the Hamas massacre of Oct. 7, 2023, the Israeli Samson is more muscle-bound than ever but no less fearful. The weakling side has been magnified by the trauma of Oct. 7. Having downplayed the Hamas threat in the years before, treating it as a problem that could be contained through good intelligence, border fences, and occasional military operations, Israel now sees all the areas adjacent to its borders as potential staging points for another Oct. 7. It is for this reason that many in Israel insist that the war in Gaza continue until Hamas is eliminated, as Netanyahu likes to say. In Lebanon, it explains why the army continues to occupy five strategic sites in the country and regularly attacks Hezbollah assets, despite the cease-fire agreement signed last November. Israels Syria policy is informed by the same concerns. Israeli officials such as Foreign Minister Gideon Saar have described Sharaa and his government as jihadis in suits, ready to strike at Israel the first chance they get. And, even if his outreach to the West is genuine, Sharaa is nowhere close to establishing control over the country, as the chaos in Sweida demonstrated. The Samson side relates to almost everything that has happened since Oct. 7. The paranoia about a Hamas redux notwithstanding, the organization has been effectively defeated. (The war is being sustained these days to please the Israeli governments far-right coalition partners, who dream of resettling Gaza.) Hezbollah has similarly been defeatedits top leadership killed and its missile arsenal significantly degraded. It has put up no resistance to repeated Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory. Although the achievements of the war with Iran remain subject to debate, there is little doubt that Israel knocked out the countrys air defenses, eliminated much of its military leadership, and, to one degree or another, set back Irans nuclear program with U.S. help. Irans so-called Axis of Resistance has either collapsed or been rendered useless. The result is that many in Israel now see the country as the regional strongman, tasked with maintaining order and stability, at least where Israeli interests are directly at stake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Syria last week, this dichotomy of weakness and strength was at play. The weakness was expressed in Israeli anxiety over militias establishing themselves in southern Syria as they battled Druze fighters and over the Syrian army deploying there ostensibly to restore order. Indeed, Israel didnt attack Bedouin fighters but the Syrian army when it dared to enter Israels self-declared buffer zone. Israels self-perception of strength was expressed no less by its decision to enter the fighting knowing that the Syrian army would be unable to fight back. Israels decision to bomb the entrance to the Syrian Defense Ministry in the heart of Damascus was an act of hubris, a demonstration of power. A third facet to Israeli policy was also at play: domestic politics. The Netanyahu government comprises far-right (and until last week, when they quit, religious) parties that have little interest in the countrys non-Jewish minorities or are downright hostile to them. Yet the governments decision to come to the aid of Syrias Druze was framed as a humanitarian act and gesture to Israels own Druze community. Needless to say, the Druze under Israeli rule, which includes about 150,000 citizens living in Israel proper and another 25,000 in the Golan Heights (most of whom are not citizens), were anxious about the fate of their brethren in Syria after the fighting broke out July 13. Their spiritual leader, Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, spoke with Netanyahu about it while hundreds of Israeli Druze overwhelmed the small security presence on the border to stream into Syria in a show of solidarity. If the Druze were any other Arab minority, it is likely the government would have ignored their pleas or, worse, arrested or shot at those crossing into enemy territory. The reason it didnt is that, unlike other Israeli Arabs, Druze serve in the Israeli military; many have become career officers, and some have lost their lives fighting in Gaza. They are regarded as loyal citizens. Their status is such that last Thursday, even Israels Ashkenazi chief rabbi called on Israel and the world to help the Syrian Druze. We are witnessing a brutal campaign of murder against the Druze people, an assault on the image [of God] in humanity, he wrote in an open letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if Netanyahu wasnt inclined to act out of purely humanitarian concerns, electoral calculations might have been enough. In contrast to Muslim and Christian Arab voters, on election day the great majority of Druze shun the Arab-led parties. Though Netanyahus Likud party typically captures only a small share of the Druze vote, the next election is likely to be closely contested. A few thousand ballots might be critical. The Druze were offended by two pieces of legislation passed under the aegis of a previous Netanyahu government: the 2018 Nation-State Law (which prioritizes the rights of Jews in Israel) and the 2017 Kaminitz Law (which eases the way for the authorities to raze illegal buildings, a practice used more often against Arabs than Jews). Even before the fighting broke out in Syria, the government had been seeking to assuage the Druze with compensatory legislation. Coming to the aid of their Syrian brethren was another way of accomplishing this and especially convenient if it aligns with the governments wider Syria strategy. The catch is that as powerful as Israel feels now, its ability to play the strongman role is severely constrained. The first constraint is U.S. President Donald Trump. The presidents stance on the key concerns shared by the United States and Israel is often hard to ascertain, but the theme that keeps surfacing between his often contradictory words and actions is that he wants to steer clear of military entanglements in the Middle East. Left to his druthers, he would rather do business deals with the Saudis and hope against hope that by lifting sanctions, Syria can become another customer for U.S. companies. If Trump orders military action, whether to take on the Houthis or Iran, he prefers short and sweet campaigns that end with decisive results (at least in his own mind). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps vision may not stand the test of the Middle Easts dismal reality, but for now Netanyahu has to deal with it. The aggressive stance Israel has adopted since Oct. 7 has led to friction with Washington over Iran, Lebanon, and Gazaand now over Syria. The United States has been mediating quiet talks between Israel and Syria, amid hints about the eventual establishment of bilateral relations. Washington made clear it didnt support the Israeli bombing campaign last week and worked to arrange the cease-fire. On Sunday, Axios quoted an unnamed White House official putting the divergence in simple and stark terms: Bibi acted like a madman. He bombs everything all the time. This could undermine what Trump is trying to do. The second constraint is domestic. Yes, Israels use of intelligence and technology to defeat its enemies has been impressive. But it cannot claim to be a major power when it comes to its economy, population size, or even the raw capacity of its military hardware. These limits can be seen in the 21 months of fighting since Oct. 7, which has strained the countrys abilities. Without vast U.S. supplies of arms and the willingness of military reservists to serve in some cases hundreds of days, the war would not have been possible. Israel cannot depend on Trump to supply the same aid that his predecessor Joe Biden did. Last year, Israel led the world in military spending as a percentage of GDP (8.8 percent) after Ukraine, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. If plans to boost this years budget are approved (to cover the cost of renewed combat in Gaza and the war with Iran), defense spending will reach 7 percent of GDP, likely topping the world rankings again. These are not sustainable numbers. Supporters of Israels aggressive strategy may argue that assertiveness will save Israel from fighting costly wars in the future by nipping threats in the bud. But whether it is Syria, Lebanon, or Iran, the aggressiveness is just as likely to entangle it in wars it cannot afford to fight. Correction, July 23, 2025: A previous version of this article misnamed Mount Hermon. Credit - Photo-Illustration by TIME (Source Image: Charday PennGetty Images, Gal/kreasi design vektor via Canva) Aisha Adkins mother Rosetta was adamant that she wanted to age at home. So when Rosettas dementia started worsening at age 59, Aisha started looking around for options. She quickly found that round-the-clock at-home care was extremely costly, and that her mother didnt qualify for government assistance. Stuck in the middle, Aisha, who was 29 at the time, ended up quitting her job to take of her mother care of her herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first, Rosetta just needed help preparing meals and reminders to take her medication. But as her care needs deepened, Aisha had to learn how to bathe and dress and feed her mother. She and her father hired a home health aide for a few hours a week when they could, but most of the care fell to the two of them until her mother finally qualified for Medicaid through a complicated process called spousal impoverishment protection, which allowed her father to keep some assets. We faced so many challenges; it was really a struggle, says Adkins. She ended up caring for her mother for ten years on both a full-time and part-time basis, until her mother passed away in 2023. Many middle-income seniors are unable to afford care As the U.S. population ages, many families are facing the same challenges. Long-term care, which is assistance with the activities of daily living either in a persons home or in a facility, is expensive. Most people pay for it either out of their savings, or by spending down those savings until they qualify for Medicaid, which covers long-term care for indigent seniors. (Medicare does not cover senior housing or long-term care.) But theres a large group of people who are stuck in-between: they are too rich to qualify for the Medicaid benefits that enable them to hire at-home help or put loved ones in a nursing home, but they do not have enough money to pay for the in-home, all-hours care their loved one needs. It then falls to family members to make up the difference. Around two-thirds of caregiving hours for older adults in the U.S. are provided by informal and unpaid caregivers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On one end of the spectrum, there are many expensive communities for seniors with deep pockets who want to start out in apartments and continue on to assisted living or more extensive care. On the other end, there are nursing home spots available for people who qualify for Medicaid, the government payor of last resort, which is strictly for low-income seniors or people who have spent down their savings. Read More: How Health Insurance Monopolies Affect Your Care But there arent a lot of middle-income options on the market, so inevitably people rely on family care and out-of-pocket home care until they end up qualifying for Medicaid, says David Grabowski, a health care policy professor at Harvard Medical School and one of the authors of a 2019 study about middle-income seniors. His research predicts that as the U.S. ages, many seniors will have insufficient resources for housing and health care needs. People like Rosetta Adkins are often referred to as the missing middle or forgotten middlethe seniors who arent wealthy but who also arent poor. There just arent a lot of options for these seniors in the middle who need care. One 2021 study estimated that a nursing home in the U.S., on average, costs $100,740 per year for a semi-private room, and that home care for six hours a day, five days a week costs $42,120 a year. The costs have only gone up since then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 2033, researchers at the University of Chicago estimate, there will be 16 million middle-income seniors who cant afford to pay for the health, personal care, and housing services they need. They will have to rely on family membersor on themselvesuntil they can qualify for Medicaid. There may be even more people in this situation going forward, after the giant cuts to Medicaid in the Trump economic plan recently approved by Congress go into effect. Home and community-based care for low-income seniors is considered an optional program in Medicaid, so states can cut it when their budgets are thin. That may mean that in some states, it will take even longer for people like Rosetta Adkins to qualify for care through Medicaid, putting even more pressure on family members to help out. When a states Medicaid budget is constrained, which is absolutely going to happen because of this bill, there will be limits on some of these home-based services, says Allison Orris, a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a national research and policy institute. A lack of options puts stress on family members Family members already face intense pressure to provide care for their ailing loved one while still maintaining their careers and taking care of children. One recent report by researchers at Columbia Universitys Mailman School of Public Health found that nearly half of U.S. states are on the brink of an unpaid family caregiving emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means that in many states, unpaid family caregivers are contributing hundreds of billions of dollars of unpaid labor. The report found that dementia carelike the kind sought by the Adkins familyis driving a lot of the labor. It is repeatedly the family caregiver who shoulders the immense pressures generated by health care shortages and rising dementia cases, says John McHugh, lead researcher of the study and an adjunct assistant professor of health policy and management at Columbia Universitys Mailman School of Public Health. Read More: The Surprising Reason Rural Hospitals Are Closing Aisha Adkins, for instance, set aside her career so she could care for her mother. Her life choices for the next decade were determined by what her mother needed: picking a graduate school nearby and then finding a job that would allow her to work remotely. Aisha, who is only 40, is already worried about how she will pay for her own long-term care when she ages because she was out of the workforce so long caring for her mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This, too, is not uncommon. Many times, family members are reducing their own incomes because theyre taking time out of the workforce, or theyre working less, says Amber Christ, managing director of health advocacy at Justice in Aging, a nonprofit that advocates on behalf of low-income seniors. Theyre risking their future retirement, which increases the likelihood theyll age into poverty. So its really a multigenerational impact. Theres a reason there arent many options for middle-income seniors: companies cant make money providing it. Over the past few decades, many expensive aging facilities have opened as investors put money into options for Baby Boomers who have extensive savings. But those places are out of reach for many seniors. The million-dollar model seems to work, says Grabowski. But middle-income models dont seem to thrive. Though there are options for nursing homes and facilities for seniors on Medicaid, they often provide a relatively low quality of care, with sparse staffing and dilapidated facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Options for middle-income seniors are also limited because many people want to age at home, but at-home care is expensive and there are vast staff shortages, especially in rural areas. The industry is plagued by low compensation, unpredictable scheduling, and high turnover. Analysts predict this shortage will only worsen, with an estimated 4.6 million unfilled jobs by 2032. Aisha Adkins says that even when her mother qualified for Medicaid, it was extremely difficult to get aides to consistently come to the house and provide care. Inexperienced caregivers didnt know how to handle her mothers dementia, so Aisha or her father still had to stay in the home even when a caregiver was around. It really fell to my father and myself to ensure that she was safe at all times, even sometimes when the caregiver was in the home, she says. Solutions for middle-income seniors are expensive Adkins says she now advises friends to look into long-term care insurance or think more carefully about putting aside more money for when they age. But even long-term care insurance, which requires people to pay monthly premiums as they age so they can have care when they need it, has proven so inadequate that only about 4% of Americans 50 and older pay for a policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though most people spend down their savings to qualify for Medicaid, elder law attorneys can sometimes help people protect their savings from long-term care costs. "It's worth meeting with and listening to an elder law attorney to find out how to protect your resources," says Eric Einhart, president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. A few states have tried to help people pay for long-term care by establishing state programs. The WA Cares Fund, in Washington State, is a mandatory program that takes a small percentage of the paychecks of working Washingtonians and then allows them to access benefits of up to $36,500 to pay for long-term care services. But that amount of money wont last them very long if they need more than a few months of care. The lack of long-term care planning in the U.S. is a contrast to many other countries. The Netherlands, for instance, has long included long-term care in its universal health care system, and requires that taxpayers contribute a chunk of their income towards insurance premiums. In 2019, Singapore introduced a mandatory long-term care insurance program. Japan has had a mandatory long-term care insurance system since 2000; it requires people 40 and over to contribute. Read More: Americas Dental Health Is in Trouble Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most experts agree that the U.S. needs some sort of plan to help more seniors pay for long-term care, especially as Baby Boomers age. Otherwise, many people will spend down their savings until they qualify for Medicaid, which is going to get very expensive for the U.S. government. Were going to be swamped by just the pure number of individuals in the system who need long-term care going forward, says Grabowski. Were not at a place politically today to talk about this, he saysbecause recently so much discussion has been focused on cutting services, rather than adding thembut in the longer run, its a discussion we really need to have. Its something Aisha Adkins knows at her core. Although her mother passed away in 2023, Adkins is gearing up for another struggle. Her father was recently diagnosed with a type of dementia, too. He spent almost all of his savings paying for Rosettas care. Now, Aisha is starting to look into options for him. She knows, from experience, that they will be limited. Contact us at letters@time.com. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Fees at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for titling and registering a car, along with the cost of some fishing and hunting licenses, are about to go up due to Ohios new state budget. Signed by Gov. Mike DeWine in June, Ohios next two-year operating budget is upping annual registration fees by $5 starting in January, from $11 to $16 for personal cars and up to $35 for commercial vehicles. Title fees are increasing $3 from $15 to $18, with each Ohio county allowed to charge an additional $5. Nationwide Arena eyes unclaimed funds in Ohio budget for $400 million renovation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states $60 billion budget also includes a $3 increase from $5 to $8 for the bureaus service fee, added on for transactions like drivers licenses, car inspections and more. This increase marks the first time the service has gone up since it was created in 2017. Each of the increases will benefit the Ohio State Highway Patrol, which has been funded since 2003 through fees associated with drivers licenses and car registrations. Andy Wilson, director of the Department of Public Safety, said, while these costs at the bureau have previously increased, the portion that goes to the highway patrol has remained unchanged. Ohios next two-year operating budget is upping annual registration fees by $5 starting in January. (NBC4 Photo) If we do not address our looming funding crisis in this budget, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will look very different at the end of this biennium than it does today and that difference will put Ohio citizens in danger, said Wilson at the Statehouse in February while advocating for the increase. Other fee hikes tacked onto the states budget include hunting permits and fishing licenses for non-Ohio residents. A deer hunting permit for these visitors will soon increase from $74 to $210, while an annual fishing license is jumping from $49 to $74, a three-day tourist fishing license from $24 to $50, and a one-day fishing license from $13 to $26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eighteen to 20-year-olds will no longer be able to bypass driving school under Ohios upcoming budget, as well. The legislation will soon require training for everyone under 21, as current law allows for these young adults to skip drivers education and obtain their license by simply passing the road test. Ohio House overrides one budget veto, hoping to provide property tax relief The changes come as DeWine boasted in June that the state has saved Ohioans more than 10 million trips to the BMV thanks to technology upgrades that allow certain transactions to take place without an in-person visit. Since 2019, the Ohio BMV has worked to transform the overall customer experience and is now home to one of the most expansive menu of online services of any motor vehicle agency in the nation, DeWine said. Weve put significant focus on using technology to save customers valuable time and cut down on congestion at BMV deputy registrar locations across the state, the governor said. This milestone demonstrates the importance of these upgrades, which have made BMV services more accessible and efficient. Advertisement 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. A string of violent protests has erupted outside a hotel in Essex that is believed to house asylum-seekers in what police condemned as mindless thuggery. More than 1,000 protesters attended demonstrations outside the Bell Hotel in Epping across 13, 17 and 20 July. The protests came after a 38-year-old asylum seeker was charged with sexual offences against a teenager and an adult in the town. Hadush Kebatu, from Ethiopia, had arrived by boat just eight days before his arrest. He denies the charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said irresponsible behaviour at the protests, which left police officers and hotel workers injured, would not be tolerated, branding some protesters thugs and vandals. He added the force had made 10 arrests since the demonstrations, with five charged over violent disorder. Here is everything we know about the protests: Masked protesters attack and jump on police vans near the Bell Hotel on 17 July (Ky Mo/SOPA Images/Shutterstock) What happened at the protests? Protests on Sunday 20 July saw a large number of people gather outside the Bell Hotel, as an initially peaceful demonstration descended into violence with bottles and flares thrown. The events marked the third time in eight days that violent scenes unfolded outside the Bell Hotel, which is thought to be temporarily housing asylum seekers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two security guards working the Bell Hotel were also attacked at a bus stop after the first protests on Sunday 13 July. The attack is being treated as a racist hate crime. Reports indicate that most of those in attendance at the initial protest were local people concerned about the arrest of Kebatu and the location of the asylum accommodation. Signs reading Protect Our Kids could be seen in the crowds during the initial hours when the protest was peaceful, with families in attendance with their children. Footage from the scenes after the second protest on Thursday 17 July shows rioters attacking police vans, with one man appearing to be struck by a vehicle that was attempting to navigate the crowds. Eight police officers were injured following what again started as a peaceful protest outside the hotel. Women hold a placard as they demonstrate peacefully near the Bell Hotel on 20 July (Getty) What sparked the protests? The events were organised in response to the arrest of Kebatu, who denies all charges and remains in custody. He is charged with three counts of sexual assault, alongside inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity and harassment without violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 10 July, Essex Police confirmed Kebatu had been arrested after being alerted to reports of a man acting inappropriately towards a teenager. The initial protest on 13 July was sparked after Kebatu was charged. On Monday, a court heard Kebatu is alleged to have attempted to kiss a 14-year-old girl. What have the authorities said? Following the protests, Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: Disappointingly we have seen yet another protest, which began peacefully, escalate into mindless thuggery with individuals again hurting one of our officers and damaging a police vehicle. For anyone who thinks we will tolerate their thuggery think again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Constable Harrington told the media on Wednesday: Whos important to Essex Police the communities of Epping, and the right for everybody there to go about their business lawfully and peacefully. What its not about is allowing people to commit crime, to commit violence, or to disrupt those communities. The policing boss denied reports officers had been overwhelmed and outnumbered at the protest, insisting there was a robust policing operation in place. Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner issued a stark warning to Keir Starmer, saying the UK faces a repeat of last years summer riots unless the government shows it can address peoples concerns (PA Wire) He also said it was not true that police had driven protesters to the site of the hotel, telling members of the press people came to the protest of their own volition. Chief Constable Harrington went on to urge people to comment responsibly on social media reports, saying online posts can have real consequences to the communities of Essex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner issued a stark warning to Keir Starmer, saying the UK faces a repeat of last years summer riots unless the government shows it can address peoples concerns. She told the prime minister it was incumbent on the government to acknowledge the real concerns people have and to deliver improvements to peoples lives in their communities amid worries the country could see a repeat of the violence sparked in Southport. At the press conference on Wednesday, Chief Constable Harrington said police were aware of the plans, and that forces across the country were working together to prevent further unrest, adding they had learned a lot last summer. He also thanked those who had protested peacefully, adding many feel firmly about an issue that concerns them and have expressed that well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epping Forest District Council has called on the Home Office to close asylum seeker hotels, including the Bell Hotel. Following the disruption, council leader Chris Whitbread repeated concerns that its location is entirely unsuitable. He also condemned the violence that has broken out there. Police protect the Bell Hotel in Epping on 20 July (Getty) Were the far-right involved? Experts from far-right research group Hope Not Hate say this series of gatherings, which began with largely peaceful intent, was co-opted by actors intent on causing violence. Several prominent members of the far right were in attendance, analysis by the groups Right Response Team found, with figurehead Tommy Robinson drawing attention to the initial protest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage and photography from the events show people with links to groups such as the British National Party (BNP), Britain First, Patriotic Alternative and neo-nazi group Blood & Honour all in attendance. The Bell Hotel has regularly attracted anti-migrant protests organised by groups such as these since 2020, Hope Not Hate explained, with actors capitalising on the recent concern to reignite racial tensions. Nick Lowles, CEO at Hope Not Hate, said: The events in Epping are a symptom of a recurring trend within the far right: co-opting the high emotions of local people to whip up hatred, pushing what could have been a peaceful protest towards violent disorder. The individuals engaging in violence are not representative of the people of Epping, who are understandably angry following the assault of a local girl. Instead, they sow division in the local area, which does nothing to assist the victims of sexual abuse. A remarkable scene is playing out in the US House of Representatives on Wednesday: In an effort to avoid votes on releasing files related to Jeffrey Epstein, Republicans are shutting it down early and heading out on a weekslong August recess. Nevermind that the Trump administration promised to release these files, and many Republicans want them to do so. The day-early dismissal is rather transparently to avoid an issue that Trump wants no part of, buy themselves some time, and maybe even hope the issue just fades away. But the issue is showing no signs of quieting, with many Trump supporters continuing to press for more transparency over Epstein and the administration taking steps albeit limited ones to try to quell the unrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky even predicted to CNN on Tuesday that the files would ultimately come out either the easy way or the hard way. So what are the key pressure points here in forcing the issue? The discharge petition Comer, in his comments to Manu Raju, pointed to the looming threat of a discharge petition. This is an effort spearheaded by fellow Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie that would force the House to vote on releasing the Epstein files if 218 members from a majority of the 435 districts sign on. The president, by September, will surely have turned over everything, Comer predicted. If things havent been turned over by then, I think the Massie resolution will pass on the floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Discharge petitions are rarely successful in actually forcing votes on the underlying legislation only about 4% of the time, according to the Brookings Institution but the mere threat of them can force leaders to cut deals and act on similar measures. Thus far, Massies discharge petition has the support of 12 House Republicans, including him. If nearly all of the Houses 212 Democrats signed on, that could be enough to get it to 218. But theres a real question about whether these Republicans would actually follow through. Discharge petitions are provocative because they undercut leadership and in this case would undercut Trump. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday criticized Massie for teaming with Democrats and not pushing a similar measure under the Biden administration. But he also made clear he was paying attention. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson departs after speaking to the media outside the House Chamber at the US Capitol on July 23 in Washington, DC. - Andrew Harnik/Getty Images So do I have some concern about that? I do, Johnson said. He added: So let me just say about Thomas Massie: Could you just accept my Southern bless his heart? OK? I dont know what else to say about it. Were for maximum transparency. Were engaging in that right now, and we dont need political games. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But these Republicans seem to be saying: Were ready to do this if you dont want to take the easy route. Its up to Johnson and Trump to try and call their bluff to the extent its actually a bluff. The August recess The Houses move might seem like a great way to get away from the issue to head home and let things settle. But home isnt always a great place for such things. Weve seen over and over again how lawmakers departing Washington to interact with their constituents can inflame situations. The most significant recent example is the rise of the tea party starting in 2009, which really got its foothold during the August recess. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tense scenes also greeted Republicans during the first August recess of Trumps first term in 2017. Indeed, there is a long tradition of these periods serving as flashpoints, dating back decades. And just a few months ago, Republicans began urging their members not to hold town halls after some ugly scenes over the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts. We also know that Democratic-leaning voters are highly motivated right now. A CNN poll released last week showed 72% of them said they were extremely motivated to vote in next years midterm election; that was much higher than Republican-leaning voters (50%) and suggested Democratic-leaning voters were even more motivated than they were at the tail end of the 2024 presidential election. That suggests they could come out in force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it might not just be Democrats forcing the issue over the August recess. Americans overall disapprove of Trump and his administrations Epstein actions by more than 3-to-1 margins in recent polls by far his worst issue. The Republican base is unprecedentedly unhappy with Trumps handling of this. Even pro-Trump influencers are pressing for more. And this is an issue that would seem to motivate the most vocal portions of the GOP base. It remains to be seen how many Republicans will even hold town halls or public events. But if they dont, that will also be telling. And its not difficult to see this becoming a powder keg. Congressional action While the discharge petition effort is being led by some of the more unwieldy members of the House Republican Conference, theyre not the only ones pressing for more Epstein information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others are pushing for middle-ground congressional action that could at least keep the issue alive or pushing the administration hard to relent. Comer and Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee are pressing forward with an effort in the House Oversight Committee to subpoena Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. (The Trump administration signaled Tuesday that Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche will seek a separate interview with Maxwell.) Both Comer and Burchett suggested theyre acting independently of Trump. I know that President Trump has said hes going to release all the information they have, Comer said. (Trump has not, in fact, said this.) But we have members that want to go a little bit further, be a little more aggressive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio told CNN this week that Bondi, who over-hyped the release of the Epstein files and made a series of curious statements, should be called to testify and explain herself. Democrats have suggested these kinds of things are half-measures, but they could still add fuel to the fire. Other prominent Republicans also continue to press the case, including Republican Sen. Thom Tillis. Release the damn files. It makes no sense to me, Tillis said Wednesday at an Axios event, adding: Either the promise to release the files during the campaign was either overplayed and we got a nothingburger if the files get released, or its something really disturbing. And thats actually even a more compelling reason to release it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And this nonsense well, weve got to protect the innocent, witnesses, those sorts of things thats called redactions. We do that all the time, he added. Tillis commentary reinforces that there are just no good answers here for the GOP, shy of a sizable disclosure. And the North Carolina Republican, who can speak more freely now that hes not running for reelection, also assured this was going nowhere because of that. If anybody thinks that this is going to go away because the House left a day early or something, this is going to be like those zombies in The Walking Dead, Tillis said. Every time you think youve killed it, another ones just going to come out of the closet after you. This is going to be an issue all the way through next years election. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com ANKARA, Turkey (AP) At least 10 firefighters and rescue workers were killed Wednesday and many others injured while battling a wildfire in northwestern Turkey, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said. The five forestry workers and five members of the AKUT rescue organization died while trying to put out the wildfire raging through a forested area of Eskisehir province, Yumakli said. At least 14 other rescuers and forestry workers were hospitalized, he said. The deaths bring the number of fatalities in wildfires that have flared amid strong winds, high temperatures and dry conditions so far in the country this year to 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The minister said the wind suddenly changed direction, causing the flames to shift rapidly and surround the forest workers. It was not immediately clear what caused the fire. Yumakli said firefighters were currently battling seven wildfires in Turkey, including the one in Eskisehir, adding that extreme heat and volatile wind conditions also were expected in Turkey on Thursday. Starting tomorrow, we are facing extraordinary temperatures and extreme wind shifts. Once again, I call on all 86 million citizens to be vigilant and exercise extra caution," he said. In a message of condolence to the families, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the victims had fought to protect our forests at cost of their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two prosecutors were assigned to investigate the incident, the country's justice minister said. Turkey has been battling wildfires since June 26. An elderly man and two forestry workers were killed in a wildfire that raged near the town of Odemis, in Izmir province, earlier this month. New concerns are being raised over the handling of the controversial arrest of 22-year-old William McNeil Jr. The case gained national attention after McNeil released cellphone video of his February arrest over the weekend, in which he can be seen being hit in the face by a Jacksonville Sheriffs officer while seated in the drivers seat of his car. Now McNeils attorneys claim he was never offered a chance to speak with the State Attorneys Office before it cleared the officers of criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Action News Jax told you Tuesday about inconsistencies between the cellphone video from McNeils February traffic stop and arrest, and the official reports filed by JSO officers. Those inconsistencies included the lack of any mention of the first hit to McNeils face in the reports and the claim McNeil attempted to grab the knife found on his car floor after hed been pulled from the car by officers, which doesnt seem to be reflected in the video. RELATED: Just scared: Man hit by police in viral video speaks, DeSantis backs Sheriffs handling of case And we can only imagine, had he had not been filming that video, what would the narrative been, McNeils attorney Benjamin Crump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, McNeils attorneys also claim their client was never contacted by the State Attorneys Office as it reviewed whether the officers involved in his February arrest committed any violations of criminal law. How can you make a determination of no criminality before you get a chance to talk to Mr. McNeil? What I believe it was, and Im gonna say it, whitewashing, attorney Harry Daniels, who is also representing McNeil, said. RELATED: First hit to mans face by JSO officer omitted in all police reports related to controversial arrest John Jay College of Criminal Justice Professor Dennis Kenney told Action News Jax its unusual for a victims voice to be left out of an investigation into their alleged assailants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre investigating it as a potential crime, then the potential victim has a right to be heard, Kenney said. We reached out to the State Attorneys Office after the Wednesdays press conference asking why McNeil was never interviewed. We havent heard back. On Tuesday, we also asked the State Attorneys Office whether it examined McNeils cell phone video during its review. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] More than 24 hours later, we still have not gotten an answer. McNeils attorneys suggested they believe its possible the State Attorneys Office may have ignored that evidence and deferred to the body cam footage and official reports, which fail to show or make mention of the first strike to McNeils face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And I would assume they saw the body cam video from the police department and they said, Well, no problem. They saw everything that America is seeing and said No problem and that is the problem, Crump said. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] McNeils legal team said their client chipped a tooth, bit his lip and had to get multiple stitches, and suffered a concussion during the arrest. They didnt specify how they plan to proceed legally, but said they plan to explore every possible legal remedy to get justice for McNeil. Since McNeil has retained legal counsel, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters announced his agency will not comment any further on the circumstances surrounding McNeils arrest in anticipation of a potential lawsuit. 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. Welcome to 5 Things PM! The pay gap between Americas corporate leaders and their workers grew even larger in 2024. A new report found that CEOs at the nations 500 largest public companies took home 285 times as much as the typical US workers paycheck of $49,500. Heres what else you might have missed during your busy day. 5 things Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images 1 ICE windfall When we look back at President Donald Trumps big agenda law in a few years, its historic expansion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement could be what we remember most. The agency received a huge amount of money and its also extremely unpopular. 2 Student loans The Department of Education has paused forgiveness for income-driven repayment plans, and it comes at a time of major change for the system. Interest will start accruing on August 1 for millions of other borrowers. Heres what you need to know. 3 Kids and phones Children younger than 13 should not have smartphones, new research concluded. Their phone use was associated with suicidal thoughts, worse emotional regulation, lower self-worth and detachment from reality especially among girls. 4 Skeleton unearthed Archaeologists have discovered the remains of a medieval knight buried under a shuttered ice cream parlor in Poland. The ornate tombstone and bones of an adult male were remarkably well-preserved and date back to the 13th or 14th century. 5 Vintage Versace Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace paid supermodels up to $30,000 each to appear in his shows. A new retrospective celebrates his work in-between the old and the new. Watch this Serving up community: Welcome to Howdys, a bar along the Guadalupe River in Kerrville. Owner Bob Canales calls it one of the last Texas honky tonks and said he reopened quickly after the tragic flooding so people would have a place to get together. Top headlines 100,000 Thats how many hand-bound books restoration workers are removing from the shelves of a medieval abbey in Hungary to save them from a beetle infestation. Check this out Abi Morocco Photos/Lagos Studio Archives Forgotten photos: For decades, photography studios in Lagos, Nigeria, documented special occasions, celebrations and peoples everyday lives. Karl Ohiri and Riikka Kassinen spent years hunting down photographers, cataloging their archives and creating exhibitions of the work. Quotable Going strong at 45: She defeated fellow American Peyton Stearns in straight sets at the DC Open and became the oldest player to win a singles match on the WTA Tour in more than 20 years. Quiz time Warner Music Group Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham are re-releasing their rare debut record Buckingham Nicks. Which popular band did they later join? A. ABBA B. Fleetwood Mac C. Jefferson Airplane D. The Pretenders Scroll down for the answer. Good vibes Love at first flight: A Southern belle and a London boy met while flying across the Atlantic Ocean in 1982. Then came a whirlwind wedding. Watch and discover what has kept their relationship special ever since. Thanks for reading Well see you tomorrow. Quiz answer: B. Nicks and Buckingham put out their first and only studio album as a duo in 1973 before joining Fleetwood Mac. Check out all of CNNs newsletters. Todays edition of 5 Things PM was edited and produced by CNNs Kimberly Richardson, Sarah Hutter and Chris Good. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The U.S. Capitol on March 14, 2024. (Photo by Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom) The midterm election is still more than a year away, but that hasnt stopped one right-wing group from running misleading ads in Ohio attacking vulnerable Democrats. In Akron and Toledo, ads claim U.S. Reps. Emilia Sykes and Marcy Kaptur voted no when the time came to protect and fund Medicare. I have seen it, University of Akron political scientist David Cohen said. His impression? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Absurd, he said, in that Democrats have owned the health care issue for decades, and absurd in the context of the Big, Beautiful Bill. The sweeping policy measure, passed without a single Democratic vote this month, could lead to big increases in uninsured Americans and significant cuts to Medicare. Television stations in Toledo have already run fact-checks dismissing the ads as untrue. Interesting politics, Cohen said. Theyre just trying to soften up the ground in a bunch of swing districts in the country in an effort a pretty desperate effort for the Republicans to try in any way to maintain control of the House of Representatives. U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) speaks at a press conference. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images.) What are the claims? Democrats voted against a continuing resolution in March that would avert a government shutdown through the end of September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, Democratic negotiators were pushing for a short-term funding bill to give them time to reach a deal. Republicans turned them down. Medicare is a mandatory program, so benefit checks go out even in a government shutdown. The March continuing resolution extended funding for important, related programs like community health centers and rural hospitals, but again, only through the end of September. Thats the entire argument proposing that Sykes, Kaptur, and 28 other Democrats failed to support Medicare. In the meantime, Republicans passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could cut the program by almost half a trillion dollars by 2034, according to Congressional Budget Office projections. Existing law puts a brake, known as sequestration, on mandatory spending if the deficit gets too big. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ad goes on to criticize Democratic lawmakers because they rubber stamped the Biden pill penalty. That critique relates to a law allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices. Relatively simple drugs (typically a pill) get seven years on the market before theyre eligible for negotiated pricing; more complex, expensive to produce drugs (delivered with an IV or infusion) get 11 years. Pharmaceutical companies making pills argue the difference in timelines unfairly discriminates against pill makers and will push companies to focus on developing more costly drugs. PhRMAs solution is to give all drugs 11 years on the market before negotiated pricing. After the first round of negotiations, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reported that penalty couldve saved the program $6 billion had those prices been in place the year prior. Whos behind it? American Action Network has put $7 million into the ad campaign targeting a total of 30 Democrats around the country. The group is connected with the Congressional Leadership Fund, a super-PAC supporting House Republicans with the blessing of Speaker Mike Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press release, Chris Winkelman, president of both organizations, said Conservatives in Congress are working hard to protect seniors and preserve health care benefits for all Americans. The proposals liberal members of Congress support not only increase health care costs but do nothing to root out waste fraud and abuse in government, he claimed. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, American Action Network is not required to disclose its donors. But the good government organization Issue One noted last November that PhRMA gave AAN $3.5 million in 2023. Since 2010, PhRMA has given $38 million to the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although these dark money groups can engage in political activity, it cant be their primary purpose and they cant explicitly advocate for or against a candidate. Although the ads criticize lawmakers votes, for instance, they encourage viewers to call the lawmaker rather than vote against them. Cohen thinks the ad is meant to confuse voters and muddy the waters, but hes not exactly surprised. I think right now were in the stage of a campaign where you throw as much crap against the wall and see what sticks, he said. Cohen added many of the health care cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill wont really bite until after the midterm elections. That was a smart, strategic move, he said, ahead of a race thats usually hard on the presidents party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putting the issue front and center as the election approaches though? Not so much. If Republicans really want to talk about Medicare and Medicaid, he said, I think thats a huge advantage in the 26 mid-terms for Democrats. Follow Ohio Capital Journal Reporter Nick Evans on X or on Bluesky. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) The Native American Heritage Fund Board announced Wednesday that three West Michigan school systems will receive funds to provide Native American history. The organization awarded nearly half a million dollars to 11 communities across the state, including Western Michigan University, Albion College and Portland Public Schools. We partner with communities through every step of the processfrom education and cultural guidance to implementationso that changes are not only made, but made meaningfully, NAHF Chairperson Dorie Ross said in a statement. These grants help restore accurate representation, uplift Indigenous voices, and build stronger bridges between Tribes and local communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WMU is launching an elders-in-residence program called Sharing Wisdom Across Generations. The program is designed to create connections that are intergenerational between both indigenous students and native elders. The university will receive $14,742 for the program. Portland Public Schools is getting $2,750 for its third-grade classrooms to introduce Anishinaabe cultural history. The district-wide plan is in collaboration with the Nokomis Cultural Heritage Center. Albion College is receiving $65,000 to co-create a culturally appropriate exhibit and co-management site plan with the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi. The exhibit will be held at the Whitehouse Nature Center and will have interpretive signage to help educate people about the cultural and ecological significance of the Gete Anishinaabe site. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Politicians seem increasingly intent on modeling artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their own likenessesand their plans could sneakily undermine free speech. For Republicans, the ruse involves fighting "woke" AI. The Trump administration is reportedly readying an executive order aimed at preventing AI chatbots from being too politically correct. Conservatives complaining about AI systems being too progressive is nothing new. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, sure, the way some generative AI tools have been trained and programmed has led to some sillyand reality-distortingoutcomes. See, for instance, the great black pope and Asian Nazi debacle of 2024 from Google Gemini. Of course, we also have an AI system, Grok, that has called itself MechaHitler and endorsed anti-Jewish conspiracy theories. That's the free market, baby. And, all glibness aside, it's way better than the alternative. When the Cure Is Worse Than the Disease Both Gemini and Grok have been retooled to avoid similar snafus going forward. But the fact remains that different tech companies have different standards and safeguards baked into their AI systems, and these may lead these systems to yield different results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unconscious biases baked into AI will continue to produce some biased information. But the trick to combating this isn't some sort of national antiwoke AI policy but teaching AI literacyensuring that everyone knows that the version of reality reflected by AI tools may be every bit as biased as narratives produced by humans. And, as the market for AI tools continues to grow, consumers can also assert preferences as they always do in marketplaces: by choosing the products that they think are best. For some, this might mean that more biased systems are actually more appealing; for others, systems that produce the most neutral results will be the most useful. Whatever problems might result from private choices here, I'm way more worried about the deleterious effects of politicians trying to combat "woke" or "discriminatory" AI. The forthcoming Trump executive order "would dictate that AI companies getting federal contracts be politically neutral and unbiased in their AI models, an effort to combat what administration officials see as liberal bias in some models," according to The Wall Street Journal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That might seem unobjectionable at first blush. But while we might wish AI models be "neutral and unbiased"just as we might wish the same about TV news programs, or magazine articles, or social media moderationthe fact is that private companies, be they television networks or publishers or tech companies, have a right to make their products as biased as they want. It's up to consumers to decide if they prefer neutral models or not. Granted, the upcoming order is not expected to try and mandate such a requirement across the board but to stipulate that this is mandatory for AI companies getting federal contracts. That seems fair enough in theory, but in practice, not likely. Look at the recent letters sent to tech companies by the attorney general of Missouri, who argues that AI tools are biased by not listing Trump as the best president on antisemitism issues. Look at the past decade of battles over social media moderation, during which the left and the right have both cried "bias" over decisions that don't favor their preferred views. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look at the way every recent presidential administration has tried to tie education funding to supporting or rejecting certain ideologies surrounding sex, gender, race, etc. "Because nearly all major tech companies are vying to have their AI tools used by the federal government, the order could have far-reaching impacts and force developers to be extremely careful about how their models are developed," the Journal suggests. To put it more bluntly, tech companies could find themselves having to retool AI models to fit the sensibilities and biases of Trumpor whoever is in powerin order to get lucrative contracts. Sure, principled companies could opt out of trying for government contracts. But that just means that whoever builds the most sycophantic AI chatbots will be the ones powering the federal government. And those contracts could also mean that the most politically biased AI tools wind up being the most profitable and the most able to proliferate and expand. AI Antidiscrimination Also Poses a Threat Like "woke AI," the specter of "AI discrimination" has become a rallying cry for authorities looking to control AI outputs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, again, we've got something that doesn't sound so bad in theory. Who would want AI to discriminate? But, in practice, new laws intended to prevent discrimination in artificial intelligence outputs could have negative results, as Greg Lukianoff, president and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), explains: These laws already passed in states like Texas and Colorado require AI developers to make sure their models don't produce "discriminatory" outputs. And of course, superficially, this sounds like a noble endeavor. After all, who wants discrimination? The problem, however, is that while invidious discriminatory action in, say, loan approval should be condemned, discriminatory knowledge is an idea that is rightfully foreign. In fact, it should freak us out. [] Rather than calling for the arrest of a Klansman who engages in hateful crimes, these regulations say you need to burn down the library where he supposedly learned his hateful ideas. Not even just the books he read, mind you, but the library itself, which is full of other knowledge that would now be restricted for everyone else. Perhaps more destructive than any government actions stemming from such laws is the way that they will influence how AI models are trained. The very act of trying to depoliticize or neutralize AI, when done by politicians, could undermine AI's potential for neutral and nonpolitical knowledge dissemination. People are not going to trust tools that they know are being intimately shaped by particular political administrations. And they're not going to trust tools that seem like they've been trained to disregard reality when it isn't pretty, doesn't flatter people in power, or doesn't align with certain social goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a matter of serious epistemic consequence," Lukianoff writes. "If knowledge is riddled with distortions or omissions as a result of political considerations, nobody will trust it." "In theory, these laws prohibit AI systems from engaging in algorithmic discriminationor from treating different groups unfairly," note Lukianoff and Adam Goldstein at National Review. "In effect, however, AI developers and deployers will now have to anticipate every conceivable disparate impact their systems might generate and scrub their tools accordingly. That could mean that developers will have to train their models to avoid uncomfortable truths and to ensure that their every answer sounds like it was created with HR and legal counsel looking over their shoulder, softening and obfuscating outputs to avoid anything potentially hurtful or actionable. In short, we will be (expensively) teaching machines to lie to us when the truth might be upsetting." Whether it's trying to make ChatGPT a safe space for social justice goals or for Trump's ego, the fight to let government authorities define AI outputs could have disastrous results. At the very least, it's going to lead to many years of fighting over AI bias, in the same way that we spent the past decade arguing over alleged biases in social media moderation and "censorship" by social media companies. And after all that, does anyone think that social media on average is any betteror that it is producing any better outcomesin 2025 than it did a decade ago? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Politicizing online content moderation has arguably made things worse and, if nothing else, been so very tedious. It looks like we can expect a rehash of all these arguments where we just replace "social media" and "search engines" with "AI." Abortion Law Violates First Amendment Tennessee cannot ban people from "recruiting" abortion patients who are minors, a federal court says. The U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee ruling comes as part of a challenge to the state's "abortion trafficking" law. The recruitment bit "prohibits speech encouraging lawful abortion while allowing speech discouraging lawful abortion," per the court's opinion. "That is impermissible viewpoint discrimination, which the First Amendment rarely toleratesand does not tolerate here." While "Tennessee may criminalize speech recruiting a minor to procure an abortion in Tennessee," wrote U.S. District Judge Julia Gibbons. "The state may not, however, criminalize speech recruiting a minor to procure a legal abortion in another Tennessee." Mississippi Can Make Social Media Companies Check IDs Mississippi can start enforcing a requirement that social media platforms verify user ages and block anyone under age 18 who doesn't have parental consent to participate, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit has ruled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tech industry trade group NetChoice has filed an emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court to reinstate the preliminary injunction against enforcing the law. "Just as the government can't force you to provide identification to read a newspaper, the same holds true when that news is available online," said Paul Taske, co-director of the NetChoice Litigation Center, in a statement. "Courts across the country agree with us: NetChoice has successfully blocked similar, unconstitutional laws in other states. We are confident the Supreme Court will agree, and we look forward to fighting to keep the internet safe and free from government censorship." More Sex & Tech News Are men too "anxious about desire"? Is "heteropessimism" a useful concept? Should dating disappointment be seen as something deeper, or is that just a defense? In a much-talked-about new New York Times essay, Jean Garnett showcases the seductive appeal of blaming one's personal romantic woes on some sort of larger, more political forces and the perils of this approach. "House Speaker Mike Johnson is rebuffing pressure to act on the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, instead sending members home early for a month-long break from Washington after the week's legislative agenda was upended by Republican members who are clamoring for a vote," the Associated Press reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement X can tell users when the government wants their data. "X Corp. convinced the DC Circuit to vacate a broad order forbidding disclosure about law enforcement's subpoenas for social media account information, with the panel finding Friday a lower court failed to sufficiently review the potential harm of immediate disclosure," notes Bloomberg Law. A new, bipartisan bill would allow people to sue tech companies over training artificial intelligence systems using their copyrighted works without express consent. A case involving Meta and menstrual app data got underway this week. In a class-action suit, the plaintiffs say that period tracking app Flo shared their data with Meta and other companies without their permission. "Brenda R. Sharton of Dechert, the lead attorney representing Flo Health, said evidence will show that Flo never shared plaintiffs' health information, that plaintiffs agreed that Flo could share data to maintain and improve the app's performance, and that Flo never sold data or allowed anybody to use health information for ads," per Courthouse News Service. YouTube is now Netflix's biggest competitor. "The rivalry signals how the streaming wars have entered a new phase," television reporter John Koblin suggests. "Their strategies for success are very different, but, in ways large and small, it's becoming clear that they are now competing head-on." European Union publishers are suing Google over an alleged antitrust law violation. Their beef is with Google's AI overviews, which they're worried could cause "irreparable harm." They complain to the European Commission that "publishers using Google Search do not have the option to opt out from their material being ingested for Google's AI large language model training and/or from being crawled for summaries, without losing their ability to appear in Google's general search results page." Today's Image Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) | National Harbor, Maryland | 2014 (ENB/Reason) The post 'Woke' AI Is the Latest Threat to Free Speech appeared first on Reason.com. A woman was arrested after allegedly using at least 20 aliases to pose as a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN) and registered nurse supervisor to care for patients at rehabilitation and nursing homes across Pennsylvania, state police said. Shannon Nicole Womack, 39, was charged with 43 counts, including endangering the welfare of a care-dependent person, identity theft, forgery, procurement fraud, use and possession of drug paraphernalia and falsely pretending to hold a license, according to Pennsylvania state court records reviewed by USA TODAY. According to Pennsylvania State Police, Womack allegedly secured nursing positions through staffing agencies by "submitting fraudulently signed documents and also by creating a false LLC to deploy herself to jobs." Reports indicate she worked at each of these nursing jobs for "only a short time," police added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The belief is that Womack began the "pattern of racketeering" in 2020 and continued to pose as nurses across many different states on the eastern side of the country, the department said. "During that COVID time, they got hit hard, and they needed help," Pennsylvania State Police trooper Rocco Gagliardi said at a news conference. "So it wasn't uncommon for these different residence locations, agencies, to reach out to host agencies and say we need some extra shifts filled. That started in 2020, and it was such an easy transition; she just kept going after that." As of Wednesday, July 23, court records did not indicate Womack had legal representation. How was Shannon Womack arrested? Womack, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was arrested on Monday, July 21, according to court records. Her arrest came after troopers conducted a traffic stop in April on a Mercedes-Benz on Interstate 79 in Washington County, police said in a news release. During the stop, Womack handed the troopers a fake ID. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of multiple forms of identification, medications prescribed to different victims, medical documents and numerous pieces of medical equipment, according to the department. The traffic stop led to a monthslong investigation during which authorities said they found Womack was associated with 20 different aliases and seven different Social Security numbers. Investigators also found that Womack allegedly used the identities and credentials of four confirmed nurses from southern states, police said. What aliases did Shannon Womack allegedly use? Police, who are working with the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Department of State and multiple district attorneys and states in the investigation, said these are 10 aliases Womack allegedly used in various parts of the state: Shannon Nicole Parham Shannon Nicole Abiola Shannon Nicole Armstrong Shannon Abiola-Parham Shannon Nicole Grimes Shannon Nicole Womack Shannon Nicole Lawson Shannon Nicole Lethco Shannon Nicole Robinson Shannon Lee Lawson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fake nurse used at least 20 aliases to treat patients, police say LAMPASAS COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44) A woman charged with charged with Injury to the Elderly was also found to be in possession of narcotics and a large sum of cash. The Lampasas County Sheriffs Office received a call reporting a possible domestic disturbance at 511 E Railway Street in Lometa at approximately 05:02 p.m. Monday. When deputies arrived, they investigated the report and Amy Kirby was arrested and charged with Injury to the Elderly. During the investigation, other information was obtained that Kirby was in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. The owner of the house gave consent to search, and deputies found 115 grams of methamphetamines and over $15,000 in cash. These items were seized and Kirby had additional charges of Witness Tampering and Manufacture/Deliver Controlled Substance PG 1 >= 4g < 200g. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sheriffs Office says Kirby was transported to and booked into the Lampasas 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 KWKT - FOX 44. PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) A woman is dead after her vehicle veered off the roadway in Dumfries last week. Prince William County police responded to the crash on the evening of July 18, in the area of Four Seasons Drive near Dumfries Road. There, police learned that a driver of a 2011 Toyota Highlander, later identified as Diedra White, 60, of Dumfries, was driving westbound on Four Seasons Drive when her vehicle veered to the left, leaving the roadway, according to the Prince William County Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexandria pet groomer charged in dogs death, accused of abusing several others The SUV continued onto the median, striking multiple trees before coming to a stop. Medics took White to the hospital, where she died two days later. No one else was in the SUV at the time of the crash, police noted. Upon investigating, officials said White is believed to have suffered a medical emergency while driving. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. A woman filed a lawsuit against a Kansas City-based pet food company Monday, saying she was fired after reporting a history of sexual misconduct from the companys founder. The woman, a former employee at Integrated Proteins, filed the suit in Platte County saying she was fired after reporting the companys founder and CEO, Joe Hubbard, for allegedly sexually harassing her, according to the lawsuit. The plaintiff alleged physical and verbal sexual harassment from Joe Hubbard began shortly after she began working at the company in May 2023, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Integrated Proteins did not respond to The Stars request for comment. On Sept. 2, 2023, the woman said she attended a birthday party for general counsel and chief legal officer Ben Hubbard, according to court documents. As she left the event, Joe Hubbard waited with her as she waited for her husband to pick her up, the lawsuit states. Joe Hubbard asked the plaintiff about her relationship situation, according to court documents. When the woman explained she was happily married, Joe Hubbard told her that was a good thing, and then made a sexual innuendo, the lawsuit states. A few days later, the woman met with Joe Hubbard and explained that he needed to be more careful with employee interactions because several comments made to her at the party were inappropriate, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Hubbard allegedly thanked her for having his back, as he didnt need any more lawsuits, according to court documents. On Oct. 19, 2023, an administrative assistant at Integrated Proteins contacted the woman, asking to meet with her, according to court documents. The assistant showed the plaintiff text messages between Joe Hubbard and herself that appeared to be part of his systematic effort to groom her with the intention of facilitating an inappropriate relationship with her as his subordinate. In November 2023, after attending another birthday party for an employee, Joe Hubbard insisted the woman meet him in a nearby parking lot, according to lawsuit. Once there, Joe Hubbard began immediately kissing the woman and allegedly groped her, the lawsuit states. The woman later learned that after the party, Joe Hubbard picked up his administrative assistant and took her to his home, according to court documents. The assistant later told the woman she had no recollection of arriving at Joes home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that month, the woman arrived at work early and Joe Hubbard approached her desk and allegedly made sexual innuendos before placing his genitals in the womans face, the lawsuit states. The plaintiff began searching for new employment, according to court documents. The woman reported her experiences with Joe Hubbard, as well as the details of a conversation with his administrative assistant, to vice president of human resources Shannon Vance on March 25, 2024, according to court documents. Vance was visibly shaken by the conversation, but told the woman she did not have time to discuss these matters, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman asked Vance not to share details of the pairs conversation with Joe Hubbard, as she feared retaliation and losing her job, according to court documents. Vance later shared the details of their conversation with Joe Hubbard, the lawsuit states, and the plaintiff said she began to experience retaliation immediately thereafter. The woman alleges her work began to be unfairly and unjustly criticized without explanation, according to court documents. Joe Hubbard s administrative assistant was fired from her position on March 28, according to court documents. In a July 16, 2024 meeting with Ben, the man told the plaintiff that while she had said nothing untrue about Joe, she needed to stop talking about him and watch her back, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman later met with Ben Hubbard after work and explained the alleged sexual harassment, during which Ben Hubbard became teary-eyed and expressed his regret that plaintiff had to deal with this at work, according to court documents. Ben Hubbard told the woman he would take care of Joe, according to court documents. He was terminated weeks later. The alleged sexual harassment by Joe continued toward the plaintiff until she was terminated on July 14, according to court documents. The woman seeks damages based on claims of workplace sexual harassment, sex discrimination, retaliation, negligent retention, negligent supervision and two counts of battery and tortious interference with business expectancy specifically filed against Joe Hubbard, according to court documents. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) A Pittsburgh woman has been accused of posing as a fake nurse under numerous fake names and working at various health care facilities in Western Pennsylvania. Shannon Nicole Womack, 39, was charged with corrupt organizations, endangering the welfare of care-dependent persons, unlawful use of a computer, identity theft, forgery, theft by unlawful taking, and multiple other charges. According to state police, Womack used at least 10 different aliases to pose as a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse and registered nurse supervisor at rehabilitation and nursing home facilities across Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation is now hoping that any healthcare agencies that worked with Womack will contact them. Its alleged that Womack also went by the following fake identities: Shannon Nicole Parham Shannon Nicole Abiola Shannon Nicole Armstrong Shannon Abiola-Parham Shannon Nicole Grimes Shannon Nicole Womack Shannon Nicole Lawson Shannon Nicole Lethco Shannon Nicole Robinson Shannon Lee Lawson Investigators alleged that Womack was able to secure the nursing positions through a staffing agency which she also created. This is a vile act or acts, I should say, not only taking advantage of older citizens in this commonwealth but them not receiving the care that they need, nor the medication they need because of someone that puts themself in this position to defraud them, Washington County District Attorney Jason Walsh told KDKA-TV after Womacks arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Womacks criminal complaint, in addition to fake names, she was allegedly stealing identities of actual registered nurses, including those from Georgia. Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices. State police investigators are working with the Department of Health, the Department of State and multiple district attorneys and states in the ongoing investigation. If any of the names listed above match any employment records at a providers facility, they are urged to contact PSP Washington at 724-223-5200. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Police said a woman was taken to the hospital in critical condition after being shot inside a gas station in Laurel Tuesday night. The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) told DC News Now that the shooting took place in the 12700 block of Laurel-Bowie Road around 10:40 p.m. on July 22. This is where the Sunoco gas station is located. When officers arrived, they found a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 18-year-old hospitalized after shooting in Greenbelt After the shooting, the suspect ran from the scene and carjacked a person, according to police. They were taken into custody shortly after. As of Wednesday morning, charges have not been released. Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Jul. 22A weekend retreat called Annie's Project will be held for farmers and ranchers who want to foster connections, share knowledge and empower individuals passionate about agriculture. This educational retreat is geared toward women farmers, but all people are invited to attend including long-time, beginner, and future farmers from both urban and rural areas. It's hoped that the event will inspire collaboration, growth and empowerment. The Annie's Project Retreat is being offered by the U of M Extension Women in Ag Network Oct. 3-5, near Cambridge, Minnesota. Annie's Project is for any farmer or rancher looking to understand farm management and decision-making topics better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Annie's Project is designed to empower farm businesses in today's complex, dynamic world of agriculture. The event will include a variety of engaging workshops, insightful speakers, and numerous opportunities for renewal and connection with others involved in farming. These activities are designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in the agricultural sector. Whether you are an urban farmer, a rural farmer, or anywhere in between, your perspective and experience are invaluable to our collective success. The cost is $199, and this includes overnight accommodations and meals at the retreat center at Lakeside Camp, 32393 Rendova Circle NE, Cambridge, MN 55008. Capacity is limited to the first 16 people. For more information and to register, follow this link: https://z.umn.edu/AnniesRetreat. Worcester City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj, who is accused of assaulting and interfering with police officers in May, said after facing a judge Wednesday that shes resolute and unapologetic in proclaiming her innocence. Haxhiaj, 45, is charged with assault and battery on a police officer and interfering with police. The charges stem from a May 8 incident on Eureka Terrace when chaos erupted and police officers were assaulted when federal agents detained a Brazilian woman. Wearing a red jacket, black top and white pants, Haxhiaj stood by her attorney during her arraignment in Worcester District Court on Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A judge released her on personal recognizance after a not guilty plea was entered on her behalf. A prosecutor did not request bail. Minutes later, Haxhiajs supporters greeted her with cheers as she walked out of the courthouse, according to video shared by the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. I am resolute and unapologetic in maintaining my innocence, Haxhiaj said to a small crowd of her supporters as they cheered. Haxhiaj then called federal law enforcement officers armed masked men, months after she criticized ICE operations during a press conference held on May 9, the day after the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The overwhelming number of Worcester residents and Americans across the country are opposed to armed masked men snatching our people off our streets and neighborhoods, terrifying mothers, children, fathers, families and whole communities, Haxhiaj said Wednesday after her arraignment. And while it is disappointing and disheartening to invest time, effort and resources fighting these charges, it is absolutely nothing compared to Worcester families living in fear of being torn apart, she said. Worcester families belong together, Haxhiaj said. And I will always, now and forever stand up and stand by our immigrant brothers and sisters, our neighbors who are facing a horrific regime. On May 9, Worcesters police union called for city officials to conduct an ethics investigation into Haxhiaj, accusing her of using her elected position to incite aggression towards police officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of particular concern in this case, one of our elected policy makers and someone who has created this difficult task for the police, District 5 City Councilor, Etel Haxhiaj, incited aggression towards the police during the incident, Worcester Police Patrol Officers Union Local 911 President Thomas Duffy said in a statement in May shortly after the incident. This councilor participated in the conduct of the unruly crowd and eventually assaulted both Worcester police and federal law enforcement officers on scene, Duffy said at the time. Body camera footage later released by the city of the Eureka Street incident captured Haxhiaj and others confronting and shouting angrily at the officers and grabbing and pushing the officers. A link to the full body camera video can be found here. Ashley Spring, a Worcester School Committee candidate on the November ballot, was among those arrested after the incident, however the charge against her has since been dropped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Worcester Telegram & Gazette reported that a judge on Wednesday dropped the charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon against Spring, after accepting a motion for the dismissal by a prosecutor who said he couldnt find probable cause in her case. Worcester Police said officers responded to Eureka Street around 11:15 a.m. on May 8 after receiving reports of 25 people surrounding a federal agent. A crowd surrounded and assaulted police officers trying to detain Brazilian national Rosane Ferreira de Oliveira, 40, who is in the country illegally, officials said at the time. In May, after the Worcester incident, Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons and U.S. Attorney Leah Foley decried local attempts to obstruct ICE operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This conduct poses significant public and officer safety risks. It is conduct that should be vilified rather than glorified, Foley said in May. I will not stand idly by if any public official, public safety officer, organization or private citizen acts in a manner that criminally obstructs or impedes ICE operations, Foley said. Haxhiaj is due back in court on Sept. 15 for a motion to dismiss the charges. 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 AUSTIN (KXAN) For the first time, more people can get money from the federal government to help them pay for workforce training courses. The expansion of Pell Grants is part of the Big Beautiful Bill thats now law. Skillpoint Alliance is a workforce development organization thats been training students in Austin for more than 30 years. Many of our students come from poverty, and they are looking for an opportunity to get out of the situation that theyre in, Skillpoint Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brackmeyer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It, and other programs alike, will be impacted by a big change. And itll directly affect students who seek training. I think being able to get this kind of support while theyre in our training program will be a gamechanger, Brackmeyer said. Pell grants the largest federal financial aid grant program was reserved for undergraduate low-income higher education students. Now, students who arent pursuing a Bachelors degree can choose a different path, with more support. The workforce programs must be between 8 to 14 weeks to qualify for the Pell grant. Brackmeyer expects it to make a big impact on the Austin-area job force. Theres about 10,000 workers needed per year, every single year, and were only filling about 6000 of those jobs collectively, Brackmeyer said. Creating generational wealth is what we really are targeting to help our students to really make an impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skillpoint offers electrical, manufacturing, technician and plumbing training. Universities and colleges, like Austin Community College (ACC), have their own programs as well. ACC has been educating its students on the new opportunity while also reassuring its Pell Grant students that they wont be losing their financial aid. There were no changes to program, in terms of enrollment intensity, and I know a lot of our students have been worried about that, Karen Serna, with ACCs financial aid outreach, said. People can apply for Pell grants through the free federal aid student application. While the new federal law expanding Pell grants does help more Americans, it does change some things, financially, that will impact higher education loan borrowers. According to Scholarship Owls Jennifer Finetti, a student advocate who helps students navigate scholarships, graduate and professional students will no longer be able to take out Grad PLUS loans, beginning July 1, 2026. Finetti said Parent PLUS will be capped at $20,000 per child, and borrower payment plans will also be impacted. Youll only be able to choose between the standard repayment plan and the new repayment assistance plan, referred to as WRAP, Finetti said. Its a lot of information, future borrowers and current borrowers really need to read up and understand. Advertisement 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 KXAN Austin. Democrats in the U.S. Senate posted these signs at a press conference in February. (Photo by Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom) FRANKFORT Kentucky elects 138 people to serve in the state legislature, and 98 of them get their health insurance through the state-sponsored plan for public employees. Kentucky lawmakers also enroll 138 dependents in the state employees health plan. I bring this up not because I begrudge lawmakers and their families health insurance. Everyone should have health insurance. Not having health insurance is irresponsible if theres any way you can swing it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I bring this up because Republican politicians have been talking a lot lately about who deserves and who does not deserve to be insured by Medicaid, the government program that Kentucky expanded 11 years ago to include low-income adults who often are described as the working poor. Medicaid also covers people who have disabilities, children, moms-to-be, new moms and seniors. A third of Kentuckians get their medical care through Medicaid. Republicans in D.C. and Frankfort have taken steps to winnow out those they consider undeserving. To partially pay for President Donald Trumps tax cuts and immigrant roundups, the number of Americans without health coverage is projected to increase by 17 million, according to the Congressional Budget Office. In addition to lowering Medicaid spending by $1 trillion over the next 10 years, the Big Beautiful Bill Act also cuts subsidies to the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplace. Meanwhile, a tax credit that helps people afford health insurance is set to expire. Republicans tell us their goal is to promote self-sufficiency and that their plans to boot the moochers, malingerers and sex-changers off the rolls will make Medicaid stronger. U.S. Rep. Andy Barr announces his U.S. Senate candidacy in Richmond, April 22, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Kevin Nance) As GOP U.S. Rep. Andy Barr said earlier this year on Fox Business: This is good for people who are currently on Medicaid in Kentucky and around the country. We want people to not be on Medicaid. We want them to have good private sector jobs that pay them more and give them better quality private health insurance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, sure, we also want that free Bubble Up and rainbow stew of which the late poet Merle Haggard sang. But lets be real. You can have a job or a few jobs and still not have health insurance or an offer of health insurance that you can afford. A lot of Kentuckians who have jobs can afford health care only because of the Medicaid expansion. Nationally only about half of small employers (those employing fewer than 50 people) sponsor a health insurance plan for their workers, and in Kentucky the share of small employers offering health insurance is lower than the national average. Overall, about 1 in 4 workers are not eligible to enroll in employer-sponsored insurance. Even large employers are not required to offer health insurance to employees working fewer than 30 hours a week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which brings us back to the Kentucky legislature. Its a part-time job thats not meant to provide a primary livelihood. That 70% of lawmakers use this part-time job to insure themselves tells me that access to quality private health insurance is not as plentiful as Rep. Barr suggests. (You might suppose Barr, a Phi Beta Kappa whos running for U.S. Senate, would know better, but, in his defense, he has had government-provided health insurance most of his adult life as a member of Congress or a government staffer.) I did not ask for any lawmakers names when I filed my open records request with the Personnel Cabinet; I asked only for the number of lawmakers enrolled in the state health insurance plan. Arithmetic tells us most of them are Republicans, since there are only 26 Democrats in the General Assembly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers and their families dont have to go through a full redetermination process or prove their community engagement every six months to keep their coverage in contrast to the work requirements (really, paperwork requirements) that Republicans are imposing on working-age adults in Medicaid. Monthly premiums for a single enrollee in the four plans for state employees range from $61 to $169. Lawmakers over the years also have voted themselves nice pensions, giving them a degree of economic security unknown to many of their constituents, who, even if they have 401K plans at work, are at the mercy of investment markets for security in their later years. I dont begrudge lawmakers their health insurance or their pensions. Legislative pay is low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, you have to shake your head when lawmakers who have feathered their own nests use their power to punish people who dont even have a nest to feather. Instead of figuring out how to kick people off health care, our elected leaders could do us all a favor by figuring out how to make the system work better for everyone. By Stephanie van den Berg and Alison Withers THE HAGUE (Reuters) -The United Nations' highest court on Wednesday told wealthy countries they must comply with their international commitments to curb pollution or risk having to pay compensation to nations hard hit by climate change. In an opinion hailed by small island states and environmental groups as a legal stepping stone to make big polluters accountable, the International Court of Justice said countries must address the "urgent and existential threat" of climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "States must cooperate to achieve concrete emission reduction targets," Judge Yuji Iwasawa said, adding that failure by countries to comply with the "stringent obligations" placed on them by climate treaties was a breach of international law. The court said countries were also responsible for the actions of companies under their jurisdiction or control. Failure to rein in fossil fuel production and subsidies could result in "full reparations to injured states in the form of restitution, compensation and satisfaction provided that the general conditions of the law of state responsibility are met." "I didn't expect it to be this good," Vanuatu's Climate Minister Ralph Regenvanu told reporters after the unanimous opinion by the ICJ, also known as the World Court, was read out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vishal Prasad, one of the law students that lobbied the government of Vanuatu in the South Pacific Ocean to bring the case to the ICJ, said: "This advisory opinion is a tool for climate justice. And boy, has the ICJ given us a strong tool to carry on the fight for climate justice." U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed the opinion and said it affirms that the Paris climate agreement goal needs to be the basis of all climate policies. "This is a victory for our planet, for climate justice, and for the power of young people to make a difference," he said. "The world must respond." HUMAN RIGHT TO CLEAN ENVIRONMENT Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Iwasawa, who presided the panel of 15 judges, said that national climate plans must be of the highest ambition and collectively maintain standards to meet the aims of the 2015 Paris Agreement that include attempting to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit). Under international law, he said: "The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights." While the decision was stronger than most expected, its impact may be limited by the fact that the United States, the world's biggest historical greenhouse gas emitter, and second biggest current emitter behind China, has moved under President Donald Trump to undo all climate regulations. "As always, President Trump and the entire administration is committed to putting America first and prioritizing the interests of everyday Americans," White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told Reuters in response to the opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With scepticism over climate change spreading in the U.S. and elsewhere, Judge Iwasawa laid out the cause of the problem and the need for a collective response in his two-hour reading of the court's opinion. "Greenhouse gas emissions are unequivocally caused by human activities which are not territorially limited," he said. Historically, rich industrialised countries have been responsible for the most emissions. Iwasawa said these countries had to take the lead in addressing the problem. POLITICAL AND LEGAL WEIGHT The court's opinion is non-binding, but it carries legal and political weight and future climate cases would be unable to ignore it, legal experts say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is the start of a new era of climate accountability at a global level," said Danilo Garrido, legal counsel for Greenpeace. Harj Narulla, a barrister specialising in climate litigation and counsel for Solomon Islands in the case, said the ICJ laid out the possibility of big emitters being successfully sued. "These reparations involve restitution such as rebuilding destroyed infrastructure and restoring ecosystems and also monetary compensation," he said. TWO QUESTIONS Wednesday's opinion follows two weeks of hearings last December at the ICJ when the judges were asked by the U.N. General Assembly to consider two questions: what are countries obligations under international law to protect the climate from greenhouse gas emissions; and what are the legal consequences for countries that harm the climate system? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Developing nations and small island states at greatest risk from rising sea levels had sought clarification from the court after the failure so far of the 2015 Paris Agreement to curb the growth of global greenhouse gas emissions. The U.N. says that current climate policies will result in global warming of more than 3 C (5.4 F) above pre-industrial levels by 2100. As campaigners seek to hold companies and governments to account, climaterelated litigation has intensified, with nearly 3,000 cases filed across almost 60 countries, according to June figures from London's Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment. (Additional reporting by Bart Meijer, Valerie Volcovici, Zoran Mikletic; Writing by Ingrid Melander and Stephanie van den Berg; Editing by Barbara Lewis, Philippa Fletcher and Daniel Wallis) The worlds highest court said polluting countries may be in breach of international law if they do not protect the planet from the existential threat posed by climate change, in a landmark advisory opinion issued Wednesday. It also said countries feeling the sharp end of climate change may be entitled to reparations for the harm caused by rising temperatures. The advisory opinion marks the first time the International Court of Justice, the UNs top court based in the Hague, has formally addressed the climate crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court was asked to consider two fundamental questions: what legal obligations nations have under international law to address climate change, and what the consequences should be for countries that harm the climate. Its opinion, which runs to more than 500 pages, said climate change was an urgent and existential threat and was unequivocally caused by human activities. The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights, said Yuji Iwasawa, president of the ICJ, as he read out the opinion. Failure of a state to take appropriate action to protect the climate system may constitute an internationally wrongful act, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court said states must cooperate to reduce planet-heating pollution and that countries harmed by the climate crisis may be entitled to reparations on a case-by-case basis. The ruling is not legally binding, but the status of the court gives it significant weight. Experts say it could bolster climate negotiations and provide a huge boost to climate lawsuits around the world. This ruling is a powerful tool we can use to demand that those most responsible for this climate crisis be held accountable, said Flora Vano, Vanuatu country manager for the non-profit ActionAid. As the planets weather becomes more chaotic, this ruling paves the way for the protections and reparations we desperately need to rebuild our lives and secure a just future. The opinion comes in the middle of a summer punctuated by extreme weather events, made more intense, more frequent and more deadly by climate change. Vast swaths of the Northern Hemisphere have baked under searing heat waves and more than 1,000 lives have been lost to devastating flooding from the US to Pakistan. A machine clears clear debris along the banks of the Guadalupe River after catastrophic floods in Center Point, Texas, on July 11, 2025. - Sergio Flores/Reuters The idea for the case originated with a group of law students in Fiji in 2019, who were trying to find a way to hold the rich world accountable for climate change, for which they are disproportionately responsible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their plan was endorsed by the government of Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation facing an existential threat from fast-rising seas. In 2021, it called on the ICJ to issue an advisory opinion on countries legal responsibility to fight the climate crisis. More than 100 states and international organizations took part in two weeks of hearings before the court in December. Many wealthier counties argued that climate responsibilities were already set out in existing treaties including the Paris climate agreement. Developing nations, which are paying a steep and deadly price for a climate crisis they did little to cause, argued these treaties are failing and called for stronger measures to ensure a livable planet. Under the Paris Agreement, countries pledged to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above levels before humans began burning large amounts of fossil fuels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The world is currently heading towards 3 degrees Celsius of warming by the end of the century, which would bring catastrophic impacts and the risk of triggering climate tipping points, including ice sheet melting, which may be irreversible on human timescales. The ICJ case is one of several climate-related cases launched in international courts in recent years. In May 2024, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea found that carbon dioxide produced by burning fossil fuels counts as marine pollution. The court, which is based in Germany, ruled countries had legal obligations to mitigate the impacts. Earlier this month, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights issued an advisory opinion which stated countries have a duty under international law to address the threat posed by climate change. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com [Source] Favorable views of China and confidence in President Xi Jinping have increased in many regions while approval of the U.S. and President Donald Trump has declined or remained low, a new global Pew Research Center survey has found. The survey, conducted among more than 28,000 adults across 25 countries between January and April 2025, highlights shifting attitudes toward world powers and their leaders. Changing perceptions The survey reports that a median of 49% across 24 non-U.S. countries view the U.S. favorably but this represents a decline in many places since the previous year. A median of 36% express a favorable opinion of China across all 25 countries, a modest but notable increase from previous years. At the same time 54% of respondents hold an unfavorable view of China, showing skepticism remains high. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Confidence in Xi Jinping rose to a median of 25% this year, up from 17% in 2024, though 66% of respondents still say they do not trust him to handle world affairs. Confidence in Donald Trump now stands at a median of 24%, marking a sharp decline from the 53% who expressed confidence in President Joe Biden last year. As a result, the difference in global trust between Xi and Trump is now at its narrowest point since 2020. Trending on NextShark: The world trusts Xi Jinping more than Donald Trump, survey shows Regional trends, shifting power The U.S. continues to be viewed more positively than China in eight countries including Western partners and U.S. allies such as Israel, Japan and South Korea. China is now viewed more favorably in seven countries including Mexico, Indonesia, South Africa, Kenya and Turkey. In the remaining nine countries, views of the U.S. and China are about equal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A median of 41% now see China as the worlds top economic power compared to 39% for the U.S. This is a reversal from previous years when the U.S. led in global economic perception. While most countries still prefer strong economic ties with the U.S., support for closer relations with China has grown, particularly in middle-income countries. In Australia the share favoring closer ties with China rose from 39% in 2021 to 53% in 2025. Trending on NextShark: Chinese university expels student over 'inappropriate behavior' with Ukrainian Implications and outlook Analysts point to several factors behind these changes, including shifting perceptions of reliability and global leadership. U.S. policy actions under Trump, such as foreign aid reductions, trade disputes and decreased international engagement, are seen as contributing to the decline in global favorability. Meanwhile, Chinas expanding investments and diplomatic engagement in many regions have helped improve its image. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The survey highlights that while the U.S. continues to be seen as a major ally in many countries, its reputation has suffered during Trumps leadership. At the same time, the rise in Chinas global stature and the standing of Xi Jinping among emerging economies signals a significant shift in international views of global power and leadership. The recent withdrawal of U.S.-funded broadcasters such as Voice of America from key regions has also created more space for Chinese state media to shape news coverage and public opinion abroad, potentially amplifying Beijings influence in key markets. Trending on NextShark: North Korean defectors debut in new K-pop boy group This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices. Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what were building, consider becoming a paid member your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community. Trending on NextShark: Asian Americans face new threats as ICE gains access to Medicaid data Subscribe here now! Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (WCMH) In 2022, the Ohio EPA described Chillicothes Pixelle paper mill closing as worst-case scenario in the fight to contain a toxic underground plume. Now, that fear is coming true. The Pixelle paper plant announced its closure in April, and its roughly 800 employees will be laid off when it closes next month. The paper plant has been a physical and economic pillar in Chillicothe since the 19th century, but Ohio EPA documents show it also plays an important role in keeping an underground plume of carcinogens from spreading. Without the plant, Chillicothe and Ohio need to find another solution to keep residents safe. Weve got a serious problem thats going to have to get addressed one way or another, said Chillicothe resident Jason Salley, who has independently investigated the effects of the plume and local manufacturing plants for years. We cant sweep it under the rug like the community has done, officials, for the last 30 years. Now weve got a crisis on our hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Olentangy coach resigns amid investigation into inappropriate text messages The plume was first documented in 1980s. It is part of leftover contamination from cookware manufacturer WearEver Aluminum, which closed in the 1990s and was located near the mill. According to Ohio EPA documents, the WearEver plant left behind dangerous chemicals, including a large toxic plume that lives in Chillicothes groundwater. Since the 1990s, Ohio EPA documents have shown one crucial protection keeps the plume at bay: the paper mill. According to the Ohio EPA, these toxins include TCE, short for trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride. The National Institute of Health says both TCE and vinyl chloride can cause cancer and other serious health conditions. As of March, well samples near the plume measured as much as 15 times the recommended maximum contaminant level for TCE and 100 times the maximum level for vinyl chloride. The Ohio EPA has already observed concerns. The paper plant paused its well use for maintenance in the 2000s and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each time the pauses correlated with a spike in TCE concentrations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People think the Chillicothe paper plant is immortal, and nobody could ever grasp the fact or the idea that it could go away, Salley said. Ohio House overrides one budget veto Linda Weavers, an Ohio State University professor and the codirector of the Ohio Water Resources Center, explained the paper mill helps keep the plume in place through a series of wells. According to the Ohio EPA, key paper mill wells used more than 1 billion gallons of water each year. Weavers explained that these wells were constantly pulling down the groundwater levels, keeping the plume from rising to the surface or spreading. Essentially, what the Pixelle wells are doing is sort of flushing the contaminated water out of the system, Weavers said. When you stop, the contaminants that are stuck on the soil have more time to interact with the water and release more of the contamination, or what seems like a higher concentration, because it has more time to kind of get to an equilibrium point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weavers said groundwater moves slowly, but the plume will migrate without the paper mill containing it. Ohio EPA documents show losing the paper mill even shifts the direction of groundwater flow toward local farms and the Scioto River. If the TCE and other contaminants migrate, they could seep into Chillicothes soil, get into the air or complicate the citys water systems. Chillicothes water treatment plant is nearly above the plumes current position. Salley said hes concerned about the issue, which is why hes spent the last five years investigating it and explaining his findings on his site, Ohio Atomic Press. For Salley, its personal; he said his uncle worked at the WearEver plant and he believes his death is linked to chemical exposure from the site. He couldnt go any further than his oxygen tank would let him go, Salley said. So, I watched my hero just fade away. And then afterwards, I started looking through his medical records, seeing a lot of talk of benzene, a lot of different chemicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shot during a robbery, former Ohio State wrestler now facing Pennsylvania gun, drug charges Salley said hes reached out to Chillicothe elected officials multiple times over the past two years about his concerns with the plume, but received no response. NBC4 Investigates also reached out to Chillicothes water departments, as well as the WearEver plant sites current owners, but also did not hear back. Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney did speak with NBC4 Investigates. He said people may be surprised how frequently the city is in contact with the Ohio EPA. He stressed the water is still safe to drink, and residents would be among the first to know if anything changed. Nobody has ever tried to find those answers, and its time we do that, Salley said. The community deserves it. My family deserves it. Thats why this fight means so much to me, and why it should mean a lot to the rest of the citizens and residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio EPA, in partnership with the company that owns the former WearEver plant, conducts regular assessments of the plume to make sure it does not migrate somewhere more dangerous. The Ohio EPA has given the WearEver plant owners until Aug. 6 to respond to a request to install new wells. JobsOhio and Pixelle have also entered into an agreement that holds Pixelle responsible for some environmental remediation on the site. Weavers said its encouraging that the Ohio EPA is looking into it, but warned these situations are hard to fix. It should be a lesson that we keep learning as humans, right? You just dont contaminate in the first place, because its crazy expensive and it never goes away, Weavers said. The Pixelle plant is scheduled to close by Aug. 10. Advertisement 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. The following article contains graphic information involving severe bodily harm, domestic violence, and death. Reader discretion is advised. WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) A bystander rescued a dog from a house fire in West Jordan that killed four people last week. Now, hes sharing his experience about what happened inside the home. On Friday, July 18, just after 10 a.m., a house near 8200 South and 6400 West became engulfed in flames. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ NEXT: West Jordan Police gives update on deadly house fire, believes father caused it Robert Harlow suffered elevated carbon monoxide levels amid Fridays daring rescue. (Courtesy//Robert Harlow) A dog was rescued from the home by neighbor, Robert Harlow. (Courtesy//Robert Harlow) Robert Harlow, a neighbor of the family who tragically passed away, was on his way home from work when he noticed a large plume of black smoke. Rather than ignore it, Harlow decided to go to the source of the smoke where he found a home fully engulfed in flames. Fire crews had yet to arrive on scene. Its been a roller coaster of emotions, Harlow said. When Harlow arrived, he found a young girl, later identified by the family as Yorgina, 14, burned head-to-toe trying to escape the flames by crawling to the neighbors yard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just remember her eyes were burned shut, Harlow told ABC4. It was the worst thing Ive ever seen in real life. Rescuing the dog Harlow says a number of other neighbors were there helping the girl, so he decided to enter the flaming home and search for survivors. He recalls running into the house screaming for anyone who could hear him, when he noticed a banging sound close by. I reached down, and I felt a dog on some stairs, trapped behind a childs gate, Harlow said. I ripped the gate out of the wall, grabbed the dog and took it out to the front yard. I felt like it was taking its last breaths. Someones worst nightmare Witness to deadly West Jordan house fire describes rescue of child at the scene Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harlow, a self-identified animal lover, remembers leaving the dog with a group of bystanders before going back into the burning home. As much as I wanted to go in and do more, there comes a point where its not possible, Harlow told ABC4. He also remembered another individual inside the home with him. Harlow described the man as his saving grace because he wouldnt let him stay inside the smoke-filled house. Soon after, the dog was able to recover. Harlow also told ABC4.com that a neighbor offered to groom Kuma the dog, and after washing her four to five times, she still smelled like smoke. Beyond that, you wouldnt be able to tell that she was in a fire. By some miracle, she escaped almost untouched, he said. Harlows own injuries Harlow would later be treated in the emergency room for smoke-inhalation and elevated carbon dioxide (CO). According to Harlow, nurses measured his CO levels at 9%, which is much higher than safe levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, normal ranges for CO in adults is 2%. I actually found out that three people died while I was in the ER on oxygen, and I just broke down in tears, Harlow said. Healing and justice Despite having trouble sleeping in the nights since the fire, Harlow says connecting with the family of the victims has been a healing experience. Theres a bit of a language barrier, but hugs and handshakes are universal. So, it was very healing, Harlow told ABC4. On Monday, Anais Bravo confirmed her sister, Jaimar Bravo Gil, 33, and her two children were killed in Fridays fiery attack. The family identified Jaimars two kids as a boy, Juliano, 9, and a girl, Yorgina, 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EXCLUSIVE: Family of deadly West Jordan house fire victims speaks out The family also identified Jaimars husband, and the father of the deceased children, as Yordano Valencias Pina. Jaimars surviving family says he had shown signs of violent behavior against the family for years. Bravo told ABC4 Monday that she believes Pina started the fire. West Jordan Police confirmed it in a press release on Tuesday. West Jordan Police Department also determined the fire to be an intentional act of arson. Crews found a fire accelerant during the course of the investigation. Harlow says he, and many others, are awaiting the findings from the police investigation in order to provide some element of closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 an emergency, please call 911 immediately. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Olivia Le Poidevin GENEVA (Reuters) -The World Trade Organisation suffered a setback at its General Council meeting in Geneva on Wednesday after a small group of countries again blocked an initiative designed to boost foreign investment, two sources told Reuters. The Investment Facilitation for Development, which aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles to encourage foreign direct investment, particularly in developing and least-developed countries, was blocked by India, South Africa and Turkey, they said, asking to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The WTO requires full consensus from all 166 members for a measure to be included in its formal rulebook. The measure has been formally backed by 127 members. Trade sources described the latest block as a "disturbing" signal, as WTO members weigh sweeping reforms to revitalise the global trade body, which has been challenged by a wave of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Proponents of reforms are pushing for changes to the consensus-based decision-making process in particular to stop countries from blocking measures and bogging down initiatives. India, South Africa and Turkey were not immediately available for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The integration of the IFD into the WTO framework is a litmus test for members' willingness to turn reform discussions into practical action," a trade delegate told Reuters, describing it as disappointing. The EU delegation told members that the IFD did not hurt anyone's interest and that blocking it would "endanger" the multilateral trade system, according to a statement seen by Reuters. India and South Africa previously opposed the inclusion of the measure at high-level meetings, including the 2025 ministerial meeting in Abu Dhabi, where it failed to gain consensus. Keith Rockwell, a trade analyst at the Hinrich Foundation and former WTO communications director, told Reuters that India's continued obstruction of the IFD agreement is partly a tactic to gain leverage on food security negotiations. "It signals very difficult times ahead for reform in other areas," he added. (Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin; Editing by Sharon Singleton) Two Yonkers residents have been charged in connection with the theft of cooking grease from an Amherst restaurant in May. The two men, a 31-year-old and a 42-year-old, were arraigned before Amherst Town Court Justice Ann Nichols. Both defendants and charged with misdemeanor counts of fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, one count of criminal possession of burglar tools and attempted petit larceny. About 5:30 a.m. on May 30, Amherst Police responded to a report of suspicious activity outside of a restaurant on the 9500 block of Transit Road where they encountered the two men who were taken into custody for attempting to steal cooking grease from a commercial container located behind the restaurant. Officers said they found a screwdriver and a large quantity of cooking grease during a search of their vehicle. Both men were issued appearance tickets to be arraigned on a later date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are scheduled to return on Aug. 13 for further proceedings. They were released on their own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail. If convicted of the highest charge, the maximum sentence is 364 days in jail. Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane commended the Amherst Police Department for their work in this investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Brian P. Dassero of the Special Investigations and Prosecutions Bureau. ALBANY, New York Its President Donald Trumps Republican Party even in deep blue New York. Moderate Rep. Mike Lawlers decision Wednesday to forgo a gubernatorial campaign effectively ceded the field to Rep. Elise Stefanik and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, two MAGA-infused Republicans closely allied with the president. Lawler, who has carved out an independent niche in his suburban House district, was widely considered to be the most competitive challenger to Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul. Now Republicans, desperate to reclaim statewide power, will place a high-stakes wager on either Stefanik or Blakeman with Trump potentially picking the winner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next steps for the GOP could make or break their chances of reclaiming a seat thats eluded them for 20 years. Republicans see an opening with Hochuls middling poll numbers , persistent voter concerns over crime and affordability, and the prospect of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani leading New York City . In short: Trumps seal of approval next year may not be a kiss of death, according to interviews with a half dozen Republican officeholders, consultants and former candidates for governor. I dont see a situation where hes driving the same kind of turnout in previous gubernatorial elections because of his popularity with independents, said Republican strategist Dave Catalfamo, who advised Republicans George Pataki and Marc Molinaro. The media will focus on the fact that Elise is aligned with the president, but the voters are more aligned with the president than ever. Unseating Hochul remains a daunting challenge for any Republican. Democrats control all levers of power in New York, and Trump has lost his native state three times. Democratic voters outnumber Republicans 2-to-1, and GOP candidates typically struggle with fundraising. And the governor, along with her fellow Democrats, will try to leverage the presidents involvement to their advantage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps unpopularity in New York helped power Democrats to a durable majority in the state Senate in the 2018 midterm elections, extinguishing the last foothold of GOP power in the state. The president, though, has been deeply involved with shaping the race for governor. In May, Trump endorsed Lawlers reelection to a House district Kamala Harris won by one point in 2024, almost certainly moving him closer to his decision Wednesday. The nod was an important development for Stefanik, who had been eyeing the governors race after her nomination to become Trumps United Nations ambassador was yanked earlier this year . Lawler, whose gubernatorial ambitions were an open secret in New York politics for more than a year, has been an acerbic Hochul critic. In a Fox News interview announcing his reelection plans, he called her the worst governor in America. And he spoke with the president recently about the race in an hour-long Oval Office meeting. The president expressed his view to me about how important maintaining the House majority is, Lawler told News 12 . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats crowed over Trumps intervention. Hochuls campaign tweeted a photo of dog biscuits with Lawlers name on a sticky note and the caption A treat for Donald Trumps Good Boy. The governor doubled down on that theme to reporters later in the day, mocking Lawler for being unable to fight Trump over his political future. "Apparently, he doesn't have the courage to stand up to me or to Donald Trump, Hochul said. I'm not surprised, but all I know is that not only will he not be governor, he won't be a congressman for much longer." Lawlers decision is also reflective of how the New York Republican Party once the home of all-but-extinct moderates like Nelson Rockefeller has evolved under Trumps shadow in the last decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hudson Valley House lawmaker has scored wins during the Trump era, most notably a quadrupling of the state and local tax deduction in the massive tax-and-spend package the president signed this month. Lawler has also warred with MAGA figures like former Rep. Matt Gaetz, an antagonist of ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a Lawler ally. Stefanik and Blakeman are comparatively better fits with the MAGA base, though neither have declared their candidacies. ( A GrayHouse poll this month found Stefanik handily leading a hypothetical Republican primary.) The silver haired and impeccably dressed Blakeman, who runs for a second term this year in Long Islands bellwether Nassau County, would fit Trumps oft-stated desire to find someone out of central casting. Blakeman has embraced a ban on public mask wearing and has closely aligned local police with federal immigration authorities. Hes made the New York Post a conservative tabloid Nassau Countys official newspaper. Stefanik, once a Paul Ryan protege, was adopted into the MAGA fold after the 2016 election and emerged as one of Trumps most vocal defenders in Congress. Her sharp questioning during Trumps first impeachment caught the presidents attention, and her withering critique of Ivy League colleges handling of antisemitism gave her national attention. For the last decade, shes represented a rural House district, which has become a Trump stronghold in an otherwise Democratic-dominated state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those MAGA coded resumes stand to energize the presidents base activating voters in a midterm election that would otherwise be a referendum on the White House and the Republicans who control Congress. President Trump has a strong base in New York state, said Conservative Party Chair Gerard Kassar, a Stefanik ally. Sure, she has to work beyond that support. You could fall short if you are working just as a MAGA candidate. Turning New York a shade of purple has been a struggle for Empire State Republicans. Lee Zeldin, now the top official at Trumps Environmental Protection Agency, came within 6 points of unseating Hochul in 2022. The race was run under unique circumstances: An untested Hochul was seeking a full term after succeeding scandal-scarred Andrew Cuomo while post-Covid concerns over crime dominated the race in a Democratic backlash year. It wasnt enough to beat the governor, who this month reported more than $17 million in cash on hand for her reelection bid next year. Yet Trumps New York allies believe Zeldins gains serve as a foundation after years of falling short in gubernatorial races. Carl Paladino, the partys 2010 nominee for governor, believes voters will be attracted to an anti-establishment fervor that Trump has successfully tapped into. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This era is great for the Republican Party to grow itself in New York, said Paladino, whose norm-shattering campaign has been compared to Trumps successful presidential bid. People dont want to be associated with the parties. They want to be blanks. Hochul has forged a relationship with the Republican president, even as she publicly bashes him. The two have met in the Oval Office to discuss a controversial Manhattan toll program and pipeline construction. Republicans dismiss those meetings and suspect Trumps overarching political plan is to flip the governors mansion a goal he briefly considered in 2014 before bowing out. It would be a tremendous win for the presidents legacy to be able to flip a deep blue state like New York, said former Republican Rep. John Sweeney. He cares very much. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Youngstown Mayor Tito Brown, Police Chief Carl Davis and other Youngstown officials spoke to the media on Wednesday, saying they are putting local establishments on notice. They specifically mentioned two local businesses that they said have had issues with unruly crowds or underage drinking. They said the activity is not permitted, and there will be increased enforcement downtown to stop it. Our strategic plan is to ensure that safety and well-being of all who travel downtown, Brown said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement was part of the citys Downtown Safety Action Plan, looking to make the area safer. Brown and his administration say they have heard from business owners and patrons about the problems of loitering and panhandling, underage drinking and violence that has been discouraging others from coming downtown. A zero tolerance policy will address the disruptive behavior, specifically targeting both the Hookah Lounge and the Social Bar on Commerce Street. The landlords that own the building, who collect the rents from these entities who have been identified as the problem, Brown said. Today, we put all on notice that our office will use all legal resources that we have to ensure that we protect the safety of all who come downtown and all who have invested in our community. We will protect our downtown. Barry Hammond, one of the partners with the recently re-opened Octave bar, says the ongoing situation with the Hookah and the Social has impacted other nearby businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are more people in the parking lot at night than there are inside the facility itself. And then you put the alcohol, the kids, the rambunctiousness that seems to be the problem. Hammond said. Police will re-assign officers to the downtown area, and firefighters will enforce occupancy regulations to cut down on overcrowding. So moving forward, you will see a heavy and strong police presence in the downtown. As the mayor said, the Hookah Bar and Lounge and the Social Bar are the two locations that have been identified as focal points for disruptive gatherings characterized by unruly conduct that includes fights, underage drinking and many other unlawful activities, said Chief Davis. With thousands of YSU students on the nearby campus, President Bill Johnson says the university has a vested interest in the downtown, adding that students who cause problems downtown will also have to answer to the universitys code of conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though the November Election is only months away, Brown dismissed talk of politics figuring into the timing of his new plans. Weve been working on this and weve talked about this. Many of you have asked about the downtown strategic plan. I still have a job to do, and it just happens to be this election season, Brown said. While some are applauding the plans to crack down on problems downtown, a number of business owners say theyve heard a lot of this before and are wondering why officials were not more aggressive years ago. It sounds good, but you know what? Our eyes have seen things in the last several years that are so contrary to what comes out of peoples mouths, said Anna Massullo-Sabella, with Avalon Downtown Pizzeria. This should have been addressed and dealt with years ago, and we wouldnt be standing here having this conversation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some businesses say the downtown area has had to endure years of problems, dating back to the COVID-19 pandemic, saying more needs to be done to help encourage residents outside the city to come back and support the local bars and restaurants. Saying things over the last eight years and doing nothing over the last eight years are two different things, and whats been done hasnt been enough. I think we need to do more, said Mark Canzonetta, with Casa Di Canzonetta. Watch the full news conference in the video above. Chelsea Simeon 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. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has held talks to try and defuse a row over a new law curtailing the power of anti-corruption authorities. At an "open and helpful" meeting, representatives decided to draw up an action plan to resolve remaining problems, he wrote on Telegram on Wednesday. He posted a photo showing him with people at the meeting, including the head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), Semen Kryvonos, and the head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP), Olexander Klymenko. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the parliament in Kiev voted to limit the powers of both authorities. They are now to be placed under the authority of the prosecutor general's office. The secret service and police had carried out dozens of raids on NABU and SAP employees over the past week. One of the allegations against them is collaboration with Russia, which launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine about three and a half years ago. However, the real reason for the raids is suspected to be a power struggle between the security agencies. Soon after the meeting, NABU published a call on its official Telegram channel for the law curtailing powers to be repealed. The statement argued that the agency works solely in the interests of the Ukrainian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law has been met with massive criticism at home and abroad. Demonstrations against the law took place in several Ukrainian cities on Tuesday evening. The independence of NABU and SAP is considered a prerequisite for Ukraine's EU accession. The agencies were established with Western support to advance the fight against corruption in Ukraine. Nevertheless, the country remains one of the most corrupt in Europe. Ukraine faced a watershed moment on July 22 as parliament passed, and the president signed, a bill that effectively eliminates the independence of the country's anti-corruption institutions. The bill will subordinate the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) to the prosecutor general. Activists and opposition lawmakers say that this will make it impossible for the anti-corruption agencies to investigate top incumbent officials without approval from President Volodymyr Zelensky's administration. "In effect, the anti-corruption infrastructure was dismantled by the votes of 263 members of parliament," NABU Chief Semen Kryvonos said at a joint briefing with Chief Anti-Corruption Prosecutor Oleksandr Klymenko attended by the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The two independent institutions, NABU and SAPO, are effectively being made fully dependent." NABU Chief Semen Kryvonos (L) and Chief Anti-Corruption Prosecutor Oleksandr Klymenko (R) speak at a press conference on the results of their agencies work during the first half of 2024, in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Aug. 9, 2024. (Ihor Kuznietsov / Novyny LIVE / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Anti-corruption activists say that the legislation will block Ukraine's European integration since the functioning of independent anti-corruption institutions has been a key condition for the country's accession to the European Union. For some critics, the bill's importance is comparable to former pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych's 2013 decision to reverse Ukraine's European integration, which triggered the EuroMaidan Revolution, which led to the president's ousting. The passage of the bill followed sweeping searches by law enforcement agencies at the NABU and SAPO premises on July 21. The moves also come amid a criminal case against Vitaly Shabunin, one of Ukraine's top anti-corruption activists, and an attempt by the authorities to pass a bill to grant amnesty for corruption in the defense industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers, experts, and activists say that over the past week, Ukraine has made a leap towards authoritarianism and lawlessness. The President's Office and the parliament speaker have declined to comment. Read also: Editorial: Zelensky just betrayed Ukraines democracy and everyone fighting for it What are NABU and SAPO? Both the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office were created in 2015 as part of pro-Western reforms following Ukraine's 2014 EuroMaidan Revolution, which ousted Yanukovych and his corrupt regime. The NABU investigates top-level corruption, and its cases are overseen and prosecuted by the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. They are subsequently tried by the High Anti-Corruption Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purpose of the reforms was to create independent anti-corruption agencies capable of investigating and prosecuting top officials suspected of graft. Old law enforcement agencies, which were politically subservient and mired in corruption, were seen as unable to fulfill this task. President Volodymyr Zelensky's Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak (R) and his controversial deputy Oleh Tatarov (L) in Kyiv on April 12, 2023. (Kaniuka Ruslan / Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images) The idea was that, without political interference, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office would be free to go after powerful incumbents. Since their creation, the administrations of President Petro Poroshenko and his successor Zelensky have attempted many times to limit the anti-corruption agencies' independence. This time, it appears that the incumbent president succeeded in dismantling the independence of those institutions. Clauses of the bill Previously, the bureau and Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office were procedurally independent from the prosecutor general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anti-corruption cases were supervised by the chief anti-corruption prosecutor, who was independent from the prosecutor general. The bill eliminates this independence and subordinates the NABU and SAPO to the prosecutor general. Specifically, the prosecutor general would directly supervise anti-corruption prosecutors. Previously the prosecutor general did not have the authority to take away cases falling within the NABU's jurisdiction from the bureau. The new bill enables the prosecutor general to do so. Even before the bill was passed, prosecutor generals had interfered in the bureau's cases, but it was difficult for them to do so, and they often had to resort to illegal means, Olena Shcherban, an expert at the Anti-Corruption Action Center, told the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, she referred to the bribery case against Zelensky's Deputy Chief of Staff Oleh Tatarov. In 2020, the Prosecutor General's Office used a court ruling to take the Tatarov case away from the NABU, and subsequently it was obstructed by prosecutors and closed. Now, the bill would give the prosecutor general legal authority to interfere in the work of the NABU and SAPO and take any case away from them if he sees fit, Shcherban added. The heads of NABU and SAPO were selected by independent commissions free of the president's influence. The prosecutor general is a political figure in Ukraine, nominated by the president and approved by the parliament controlled by the president's party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Point of no return Ukraines democracy under threat as new bill guts anti-corruption efforts Procedural violations The bill was rushed through parliament. The amendments that subjugate anti-corruption agencies were added to an older bill that previously passed the first reading and had little to do with the topic. Less than 24 hours passed between the introduction of the amendments and the vote, followed by Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk and later the president signing the bill into law an unprecedented pace. Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Aug. 27, 2024. (Viktor Kovalchuk / Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Activists and opposition lawmakers say the draft law was passed with procedural violations. Specifically, lawmakers did not receive the text of the bill on time, according to Shcherban. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What happened today in the parliamentary hall was shocking," Inna Sovsun, a lawmaker from the Holos party, told the Kyiv Independent. "The draft law was pushed through despite clear procedural violations... lawmakers from the Servant of the People party applauded. It felt like a coven." Anastasia Radina, head of parliament's anti-corruption committee from the Servant of the People party, also said that the bill was passed with grave procedural violations. "The table (with amendments) that lawmakers could see, comparing what exactly was added, appeared fifteen minutes before the vote in the hall," she said. Even some of those who voted for the bill did so somewhat in the dark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Honestly, for me, it came as a shock. I was not informed. I was not in the loop before it happened," a lawmaker from Zelensky's Servant of the People party who voted for the bill and spoke on condition of anonymity told the Kyiv Independent. "But I just hope the president knows what he's doing. And I trust him on that." NABU's reaction Following the parliamentary vote, NABU Chief Kryvonos urged Zelensky to veto the bill, a plea that remained unanswered. Kryvonos described the legislation as effectively signaling the "destruction of the independence" of the two anti-corruption institutions by exposing them to political influence and pressure on both ongoing and future investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What was created in response to society's demands and those of the EuroMaidan Revolution... was destroyed today by lawmakers, including former members of (Yanukovych's) Party of Regions and individuals who are under investigation by the NABU and SAPO," he said. Kryvonos also said that the President's Office had not reached out to him to discuss the bill. If Zelensky signs the bill, Kryvonos said they will work with Western partners to restore the anti-corruption agencies' independence. Kryvonos also said that criminal probes against himself or Klymenko were possible in the future. Destruction of anti-corruption infrastructure Critics of the bill argue that it is a death blow to Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies. A source at the NABU told the Kyiv Independent he is considering quitting after the passage of the bill because he does not know "how to be effective in these conditions." "To be honest, we might as well hang a padlock on NABU," the source said. "I have no doubt about (Prosecutor General Ruslan) Kravchenko's political loyalty and bias. Now, no investigation that affects those in power will move forward, and he'll shut down the old ones. The entire essence of the 2014 anti-corruption reform is going down the drain." Prosecutor General Kravchenko told journalists on July 22 that he won't interfere in the bureau's work and that he believes the bureau will remain independent. "Why don't you trust me?" he asked journalists several times. Vitaly Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center, said on Facebook that, after the passage of the bill, "the existence of the NABU, SAPO and the High Anti-Corruption Court doesn't make any sense." "Zelensky's prosecutor general will stop investigations against all the president's friends," he added. He continued that electronic asset declarations for officials, punishment for illicit enrichment, confiscation of ill-gotten gains, and all other anti-corruption reforms would become equally meaningless without independent anti-corruption agencies. Commenting on the elimination of Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure, Radina said that "the building is not just on fire, it's burned to embers already." Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, a lawmaker from the Holos party, said that the bill "will finally destroy the independence of the anti-corruption infrastructure." "The prosecutor general, a man 100% loyal to the president, will decide who and what cases will be investigated, who and how will provide procedural support from the prosecutor's office," he told the Kyiv Independent. "Therefore, we should expect the closure of a number of high-profile cases, such as the Chernyshov case." Then-Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Oleksiy Chernyshov, on June 4, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium. (Thierry Monasse/Getty Images) Yurchyshyn was referring to former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, who was charged with bribery and abuse of power in June. Responding to a question by the Kyiv Independent, Kravchenko said that he won't be transferring the Chernyshov case from the NABU. Security Service Head Vasyl Malyuk said at the same briefing that Kravchenko, appointed a month ago, will be helping the NABU with advice. European integration at risk The destruction of Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure is also a major blow to its aspirations to join the EU, whose conditions for the country's accession include progress on anti-corruption reforms. "The European Union is concerned about Ukraine's recent actions with regard to its anti-corruption institutions, NABU and SAPO," Guillaume Mercier, a spokesperson for the European Commission, said on July 22. "These institutions are crucial to Ukraine's reform agenda and must operate independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust." He added that "Ukraine's EU accession will require a strong capacity to combat corruption and to ensure institutional resilience." Marta Kos, the European commissioner for enlargement, also said on July 22 that she was "seriously concerned over today's vote in the parliament." "The dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABU's independence is a serious step back," she added. "Independent bodies like NABU and SAPO are essential for Ukraine's EU path. The rule of law remains in the very center of EU accession negotiations." Shcherban told the Kyiv Independent that the bill will make Ukraine's further European integration impossible. Radina also said that "(the NABU and SAPO's) work and independence and track record meet the obligations of Ukraine in accordance with the IMF memoranda, the documents related to European integration, the action plan of visa liberalization with the European Union and so on." "All these documents that I have just mentioned are violated by today's decision of the Verkhovna Rada, unfortunately," she added. "It's a terrible shame." Sovsun told the Kyiv Independent that the bill is "a fundamental shift that strikes at the heart of democracy." "It's something the EU can't afford to ignore, and it will impact how Ukraine is perceived, including our prospects for integration," she said. A top European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the Kyiv Independent that the independence of the NABU is a key benchmark and that EU institutions are closely monitoring the situation. Back to Yanukovych era For some opponents of the legislation, the bill is reminiscent of the lawlessness and authoritarianism characteristic of ex-President Yanukovych's era. Yury Nikolov, an investigative journalist focusing on corruption, told the Kyiv Independent that "we've gone back to the times of Yanukovych, which I always considered the peak of corruption in Ukraine." Revolution of Dignity in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 20, 2014. (Jeff J Mitchell / Getty Images) Shabunin wrote on Facebook that the bill "allows Zelensky to dismantle the key anti-corruption achievements of the (EuroMaidan Revolution) and takes us back to the Yanukovych era at least in terms of justice." "I'm addressing the members of parliament who are going to vote for this. Remember what Ukrainians did to the Party of Regions," he added in a reference to Yanukovych's party, whose power collapsed due to the 2014 EuroMaidan Revolution. "The Ukrainians are much angrier now than they were back then." Ukrainian historian Yaroslav Hrytsak even described the bill as a "coup d'etat not in terms of a government change but in terms of the principles on which a government should operate." "A sound state cherishes the independence of its institutions this one curtails it," he said. "This government is sick, and it reveals its sickness at the most critical moment of the war. It is dangerous, it is depressing, it is suicidal." Read also: Veto the law! Protests held across Ukraine after parliament passes bill weakening anti-corruption institutions Why is it happening now? Activists and lawmakers say that the crackdown on Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies is the government's backlash against high-profile cases that recently targeted Zelensky's inner circle. These include the bribery and abuse of power case against Chernyshov, as well as an embezzlement case against a relative of Timur Mindich, a film producer and co-owner of Zelensky's Kvartal 95 production company. "(If the NABU loses its independence), there will only remain anti-corruption investigations against low-level people," Nikolov told the Kyiv Independent. "Top corrupt officials will be able to get away with anything." Another major factor is Donald Trump's election as U.S. president in 2024. In contrast to the administration of former President Joe Biden, Trump's team has paid little attention to anti-corruption reforms in Ukraine and has not made any statements on the issue. Trump has frozen funding for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which had financed rule of law reforms and civil-society watchdogs in Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities have seen this as a clear signal to act. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has approved the composition of the Ukrainian delegation that will take part in the negotiations scheduled to take place on 23 July in Istanbul with international partners and representatives of Russia on achieving a just and lasting peace. Source: decree No. 539/2025 Details: The delegation will be headed by Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council Rustem Umierov. It includes representatives of the Office of the President, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Armed Forces, the Security Service of Ukraine, the intelligence services, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) and other institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decree states that the head of the delegation is authorised to change its composition and involve experts and employees of state bodies with the presidents approval. The directives for the delegation were approved separately and remain classified. The delegation members are: Rustem Umierov Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, head of the delegation; Oleksandr Bevz adviser to the head of the Presidents Office; Oleksandr Diakov Deputy Chief of Staff of the Ukrainian Navy; Serhii Kyslytsia First Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs; Yurii Kovbasa representative of the Human Rights Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada in the security and defence sector (by agreement); Heorhii Kuzmychov Protocol Officer of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces; Oleh Luhovskyi First Deputy Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service; Yevhenii Ostrianskyi Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces; Oleksandr Poklad Deputy Head of the Security Service of Ukraine; Vadym Skibitskyi Deputy Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine; Andrii Fomin Head of the International Law Department of the General Staff of the Armed Forces; Oleksii Shevchenko Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces; Oleksandr Sherikhov Senior Officer of the Main Operational Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; Yevhen Shynkariov Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Air Force Command. Background: Ukraine has proposed to Russia that a new round of talks be held this week. Independent Turkce reported on Monday, citing sources, that Russian and Ukrainian delegations may meet this week in Istanbul on 23 or 24 July. The Kremlin said that Russia "reaffirms its interest in holding a third round of negotiations on Ukraine" but noted that there must be an exchange of views on the Russian and Ukrainian draft memorandums, which are currently "diametrically opposed". On 22 July, Zelenskyy reported that the Ukrainian delegation for talks with the Russian side in Turkiye would be headed by Rustem Umierov, National Security and Defence Council (NSDC) Secretary. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Activists on Wednesday called for more protests of a new law that they say weakens Ukraines anti-corruption watchdogs, following the first major anti-government demonstration in over three years of war. The legislation, which has also drawn rebukes from European Union officials and international rights groups, has put increased pressure on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and endangered his public support at a critical phase of the war. Also on Wednesday, delegations from Russia and Ukraine met in Istanbul for a third round of talks in as many months. The talks appeared to have lasted less than an hour and yielded no breakthroughs. The two sides, however, agreed to exchange more prisoners of war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the morning, Zelenskyy convened the heads of Ukraine's key anti-corruption and security agencies in response to the outcry against his decision to approve the law that was passed by parliament. We all hear what society says, Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram after the meeting. But he insisted the new legal framework was needed to crack down harder on corruption. Criminal cases should not drag on for years without verdicts, and those working against Ukraine must not feel comfortable or immune from punishment, he said. Zelenskyy said all government agencies agreed to work constructively and respond to public expectations for fairness and effectiveness. A detailed joint action plan is expected within two weeks, aimed at addressing institutional weaknesses, removing legal hurdles and ensuring justice across the board, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of people gathered in the capital and other cities Tuesday to urge Zelenskyy to veto the controversial bill. After he approved it, activists went on social media to call for another demonstration Wednesday night in central Kyiv. Zelenskyy has been the international face of Ukraines determination to defeat Russias all-out invasion, and his domestic troubles are an unwelcome diversion from the war effort. Zelenskyy acknowledged the protests and criticism in his nightly address Wednesday, and he said government and law enforcement agencies had agreed to come up with specific steps to strengthen the rule of law in Ukraine. Those recommendations, he said, would lead to a bill he would propose to parliament to safeguard the autonomy of the agencies. The legislation tightens government oversight of two key anti-corruption agencies. Critics say the step could significantly weaken the independence of those agencies and give Zelenskyys circle greater influence over investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EU officials warn of possible setback to joining bloc Fighting entrenched corruption is crucial for Ukraines aspirations to join the EU and maintain access to billions of dollars in Western aid in the war. Limiting the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption agency hampers Ukraines way towards the EU, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul warned in a post on X. EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius, also on X, noted: In war, trust between the fighting nation and its leadership is more important than modern weapons difficult to build and to keep, but easy to lose with one significant mistake by the leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukrainian branch of Transparency International criticized the parliaments decision, saying it undermines one of the most significant reforms since 2014, when Ukrainians ousted a pro-Moscow president in what they called the Revolution of Dignity, and damages trust with international partners. It accused authorities of dismantling the countrys anti-corruption architecture. Zelenskyy said the new law clears out Russian influence from fighting corruption and ensures punishment for those found guilty of it. He cited years of delays in criminal proceedings involving huge amounts of money. The cases that have been lying dormant must be investigated, he said in a Telegram post early Wednesday. For years, officials who have fled Ukraine have been casually living abroad for some reason in very nice countries and without legal consequences and this is not normal, he said. He didnt give examples of what he said was Russian interference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal changes in Ukraine would grant the prosecutor general new authority over investigations and cases handled by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko, appointed by Zelenskyy just over a month ago, said the anti-corruption watchdogs and other law enforcement agencies would keep working as before. The prosecutor general has only been granted broader powers and an increased scope of authority, Kravchenko told a news conference as officials moved to ease public concern. The anger and frustration among war-weary Ukrainians prevailed in the crowd Tuesday. Some protesters accused Ukraines leadership of prioritizing loyalty and personal connections over fighting corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who swore to protect the laws and the constitution have instead chosen to shield their inner circle, even at the expense of Ukrainian democracy, said veteran Oleh Symoroz, who lost both legs after he was wounded in 2022. Russian officials relished Zelenskyys difficulties, although Moscow faces its own series of corruption cases against government and military officials. A third round of direct talks The third round of direct talks got underway at the Ciragan Palace in Istanbul with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressing hope the Russian and Ukrainian delegates would "engage in substantive and results-oriented consultations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ultimate goal, he said, is "a ceasefire that will pave the way to peace. Speaking to the media after the talks, the Ukrainian delegation once again stressed that Kyivs top priorities were a meeting between the Ukrainian and Russian presidents and a real ceasefire ending all strikes on civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian delegation proposed holding such a meeting in August to satisfy the deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump, who gave the Kremlin a 50-day ultimatum to reach a peace deal or face steep trade tariffs. We have progress on humanitarian track. There is no progress on cessation of hostilities or ceasefire," the head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustem Umerov, said. Russian officials in their remarks to reporters reiterated that a peace agreement needs to be finalized before the two leaders meet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The head of Russia's delegation, Vladimir Medinsky, said Russia proposed 24- or 48-hour ceasefires along the front line so that medical teams could retrieve dead and wounded soldiers. As for a broader truce, Moscow's and Kyiv's positions are quite distant from each other," Medinsky said, referring to the memorandums exchanged by both sides that set out conditions for a ceasefire. We have agreed to continue contact. Both sides said more exchanges of prisoners of war were agreed on at least 1,200 on each side, according to Medinsky. Other issues discussed included the fate of civilian captives, Ukrainian children forcibly deported to Russia and the return of the bodies of fallen soldiers and wounded troops. In other developments, Russian drone strikes knocked out power to more than 220,000 customers in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region, Zelenskyy said on Telegram, adding that repairs restored most of the supply in hours. Ukrainian and Western officials have accused the Kremlin of stalling in the talks in order for its bigger army to capture more Ukrainian land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Trump threatened Russia with severe economic sanctions and said more American weapons, paid for by European countries, would go to Ukraine. Trump hardened his stance toward Moscow after months of frustration with Putin about unsuccessful talks for a ceasefire. Trump gave Russia until early September to agree to a ceasefire. ___ Guzel reported from Istanbul, Turkey. Associated Press writers Suzan Fraser in Ankara, Turkey; Katie Marie Davies in Manchester, United Kingdom; and Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed to this report. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine LONDON -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing protests across the country after signing a controversial bill on Tuesday that critics say will neuter the independence of two prominent anti-corruption bodies. As Ukrainian and Russian delegations prepare to meet in Istanbul, Turkey, for a new round of ceasefire talks, Zelenskyy and his allies are facing a groundswell of opposition at home. On Tuesday, Zelenskyy signed a controversial law passed by parliament that will bring the Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and its partner organization, the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), under the direct control of the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both bodies were set up in the aftermath of Ukraine's pro-Western Maidan Revolution in 2014, with the intention of rooting out systemic corruption and helping Kyiv reform its democratic system with an eye on European Union accession. Tetiana Dzhafarova/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: This photograph shows a projection reading "Veto the law" on a building facade during a demonstration in downtown Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025. The passing of the new legislation this week prompted protests in Kyiv and other major cities across Ukraine, with demonstrators even violating the nighttime curfew imposed as a guard against nightly Russian drone and missile strikes. A spokesperson for the European Commission warned the move could undermine Ukraine's potential bid to join the EU. Kyiv's European funding, they added, is "conditional on progress on transparency, judicial reform and democratic government." Transparency International's Ukraine branch, meanwhile, said the move represented a "massive setback in anti-corruption reform" and a "direct threat to Ukraine's path to the EU." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The passage of the bill followed dozens of raids on NABU employees by officers from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the PGO on Monday. Officers also began inspecting the handling of state secrets at SAPO. Zelenskyy and his supporters have framed the measures as necessary to root out Russian infiltration and influence within Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies. MORE: Ukraine-Russia talks set for Wednesday in Turkey, Zelenskyy confirms "The anti-corruption infrastructure will work," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram late on Tuesday. "Only without Russian influences -- everything needs to be cleansed of this. And there should be more justice." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Of course, NABU and SAPO will work. And it is important that the Prosecutor General is determined to ensure that in Ukraine the inevitability of punishment for those who go against the law is really ensured," he added. "And this is what is really needed for Ukraine. The cases that were pending must be investigated." "For years, officials who fled Ukraine have been living peacefully abroad for some reason -- in very nice countries and without legal consequences," Zelenskyy continued. "This is abnormal. There is no rational explanation why criminal proceedings worth billions have been 'hanging' for years. And there is no explanation why the Russians can still get the information they need." "It is important that there is an inevitability of punishment and that society really sees this," the president wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Zelenskyy said in another post that he met with the heads all law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies plus the prosecutor general. "We all hear what society says," Zelenskyy wrote. "We see what people expect from state institutions to ensure justice and the effectiveness of each institution." "We agreed that next week there will be an in-depth working meeting regarding the general action plan," Zelenksyy said. "And in two weeks, a joint plan should be ready -- outlining the necessary steps to strengthen Ukraine, address existing issues, provide more justice and genuinely protect the interests of Ukrainian society." Vadym Sarakhan/AP - PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends parliament in Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 17, 2025. The bill was passed by the Ukrainian parliament -- the Rada -- by 263 representatives, having quickly moved through committee. Thirteen MPs voted against, 13 abstained and 35 did not vote. It was supported in parliament by members of Zelenskyy's Servant of the People party, as well as former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko's Batkivshchyna party. The Opposition Platform For Life party, which is widely considered pro-Russian and has had several representatives accused of treason during the war, also backed the measure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oleksandr Merezhko, a member of Zelenskyy's party and the chair of the parliament's foreign affairs committee, told ABC News he backed the legislation though admitted he had "some doubts" about its content. "I trust the president," Merezkho said. "In such cases I normally also trust the decision of the committee." Merezhko said his concerns were over "what consequences it might have from the perspective of the negotiations with the EU on our membership." MORE: Ukraine braces for Trump's 50-day window amid escalating Russian strikes European counterparts, Merezhko continued, "are worried and they are asking questions. I think that we need better communication with our European partners on that issue." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There might be some sensitive aspects which need clear explanation to our partners by the president," he added. "I'm personally in favor of the independence of the anti-corruption bodies. But I'm also in favor of the true rule of law of the state in Ukraine." Zelenskyy's decision to sign the divisive bill has piqued concern of an anti-democratic power grab by the president and his inner circle -- chief among them Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential office. A former Ukrainian official, who asked not to be identified for fear of reprisal, told ABC News, "We are not losing the war because the West did not give us enough weapons. We are losing the war because of corruption, lack of professional management and because many do not see why they should fight for Zelenskyy's autocracy." "Yermak is just a good implementor of Zelenskyy's will," the former official added. Alex Babenko/AP - PHOTO: Protesters chant while holding banners during a protest against a law targeting anti-corruption institutions in central Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 22, 2025. Vitaliy Shabunin, a prominent Ukrainian anti-corruption activist who previously headed the first Public Oversight Council at NABU, said the bill will allow the prosecutor general -- who is appointed by the president -- to "shut down all investigations involving the president's friends." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko -- who has repeatedly clashed with Zelenskyy's administration during Russia's full-scale war -- joined protesters in the capital on Tuesday. The new measure, he wrote on Telegram, "definitely does not bring Ukraine closer to the European Union. It certainly does not bring it closer to democracy, the rule of law, and legality -- to those values for which our soldiers are dying today in a bloody struggle against the aggressor." Proponents of the bill "are dragging Ukraine faster and faster into authoritarianism," the mayor added, "hiding behind the war, destroying anti-corruption bodies, local self-government, silencing activists and journalists." "Yes, there are many questions about the independence, impartiality, and adherence to legal procedures by all law enforcement agencies," Klitschko continued. "But the system needs to be changed, not turned into a bulldog of the authorities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And we must not forget that sooner or later, all actions will have to be accounted for -- both politically and legally," the mayor wrote. MORE: Trump is signaling a change on Ukraine. What does it mean for Putin?: ANALYSIS ABC News' Will Gretsky contributed to this report. London In a first since Russia launched its full-scale invasion more than three years ago, widespread protests have taken place across Ukraine not against Russia or its President Vladimir Putin, but against Ukraine's own President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the country's parliament, the Rada. Late Tuesday night, Zelenskyy signed a bill into law, after it was fast-tracked through the Rada, that gives Ukraine's prosecutor general (roughly equivalent to the U.S. attorney general), more power over two anti-corruption agencies long known for their fierce independence. The prosecutor general is a political appointee, not an elected official. In the hours before Zelenskyy signed the measure, thousands of people in the capital Kyiv, the western city of Lviv, Dnipro in the east and Odessa in the south made their frustration and fear known, defying martial law bans on mass gatherings to come out and protest. Their concern is rooted in the continued autonomy of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), which for years have sought to combat graft by public officials, regardless of their political affiliation. People take part in a rally against the implementation of a law that regulates the work of the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office and the National Anti-Corruption Bureau in Kyiv, Ukraine, July 22, 2025. / Credit: Danylo Antoniuk/Anadolu/Getty Some critics argue the new law is political retribution. In April, Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau charged a former deputy head of Zelenskyy's administration, Andrii Smyrnov, with money laundering and accepting a bribe. Others fear a potential backslide back into some degree of authoritarianism in the country that was previously led by pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych, who was known for his close ties to oligarchs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 27-nation European Union, which has been a staunch supporter of Zelenskyy and Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion, also voiced concern over the changes to the management of the anti-corruption agencies. Demonstrably fighting corruption is crucial to Ukraine's bid to join the EU. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos called the vote by Ukraine's parliament "a serious step back" in a post on social media, adding that "independent bodies like NABU & SAPO are essential for Ukraine's EU path. Rule of Law remains in the very center of EU accession negotiations." Zelenskyy appeared to acknowledge the anger in his country over the new legislation, saying in a statement posted on social media after the Rada's vote: "We all hear what society is saying." "We see what people expect from state institutions ensured justice and the effective functioning of each institution. We discussed the necessary administrative and legislative decisions that would strengthen the work of each institution, resolve existing contradictions, and eliminate threats," Zelenskyy said. "Everyone will work together. At the political level, we will provide support." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy holds a meeting with Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Rustem Umerov and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, to discuss the peace negotiations with Russia, July 22, 2025, in Kyiv, Ukraine. / Credit: Volodymyr Zelenskyy/Telegram/Anadolu/Getty Earlier he had stressed that the two anti-corruption agencies would still "work," but he said they needed to be clear of what he claimed was "Russian influence." He said some major corruption cases had been "lying dormant" with the agencies for years without any rational explanation, but offered no explanation of the alleged Russian influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New round of Russia-Ukraine peace talks The Kremlin, meanwhile, confirmed that a third round of direct Russia-Ukraine peace talks would begin in Turkey on Wednesday evening. "Our delegation is flying to Istanbul, and indeed negotiations are scheduled to take place there tonight," said spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. "The main topic of discussion will be peace memorandums that were shared during the second round of talks." He said the two sides would discuss further prisoner swaps. Over the past two months, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged more than 1,000 prisoners of war, but the negotiations have thus far yielded little hope of a ceasefire in the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Peskov said Moscow did not expect any "miraculous breakthrough" in Turkey, calling the two sides "diametrically opposed." Moscow has demanded a litany of concessions from Ukraine, including that it give up territory Russian troops have seized during the war. Russia currently occupies about a fifth of Ukraine's territory. Putin's government has also demanded that Ukraine abandon its ambitions of joining the EU and the U.S.-led NATO alliance, and even insisted that it should significantly downsize its military and make Russian the official language of Ukraine. Ozzy Osbourne, heavy metal pioneer, dies at age 76 Sneak peek: The Case of the Black Swan (Part 2) Idaho murders victims' families speak out at Brian Kohberger's sentencing hearing President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pledged to submit a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) that will "empower the law enforcement system" and preserve "all provisions necessary for the independence of anti-corruption institutions". Source: Zelenskyy in his evening address on 23 July Quote: "Of course, everyone has heard what people have been saying these days on social media, to one another, in the streets. None of this is in vain. We have analysed all the concerns, all the aspects of what needs to be changed and what must be stepped up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I will propose to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine a draft law that will be a response, one that will empower the law enforcement system. And there will be no Russian influence or interference in the activities of law enforcement bodies, and very importantly all provisions for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will remain. And I strongly expect from our group of law enforcement and anti-corruption leaders, from the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, proposals for the provisions that must be implemented. This will be a presidential draft law and we will carry it out as part of our strategy for transforming the state." Details: Zelenskyy said that during a recent meeting with the heads of law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies, it was agreed that the heads of the institutions would jointly propose a plan of action and concrete steps to "strengthen the rule of law in Ukraine". Background: On 21 July, employees of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Prosecutor General's Office conducted approximately 80 searches targeting 19 employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau in various oblasts of Ukraine. On 22 July, the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) voted for draft law No. 12414 that would make the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) currently independent anti-corruption institutions dependent on the decisions of the prosecutor general. On the evening of 22 July, Zelenskyy signed bill No. 12414. Protests were held in many cities across Ukraine following the adoption of this legislative initiative. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the Ukrainian delegation will insist on the need for an immediate and full ceasefire during the negotiations in Istanbul on 23 July. Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) Details: Zelenskyy reiterated that more than 220,000 consumers in Sumy Oblast had been left without electricity due to Russian drone strikes on energy infrastructure on 23 July. Throughout the day, the minister of internal affairs and the minister of energy are providing updates on the restoration process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Ukrainians always rebuild what has been destroyed. And today, during negotiations in Turkiye, the representatives of Ukraine will once again insist on the need for an urgent and complete ceasefire, including a halt to such strikes on civilian infrastructure." Background: Talks between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled to begin at 19:00 on 23 July in Istanbul. The Ukrainian delegation is led by Rustem Umierov, former minister of defence and current Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council. The Russian delegation is once again headed by Putins aide Vladimir Medinsky, who also led the Russian negotiation team in Istanbul in spring 2022. Ukrainska Pravda sources said that apart from the humanitarian aspect, the main objective is to organise a meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. The first round of talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul took place on 16 May 2025, and the second on 2 June. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The business community, civil society organisations and think tanks have appealed to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) to repeal a law that will end the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption institutions. Source: a statement by the CEO Club Ukraine Details: In a statement, the CEO Club Ukraine has noted that the controversial bill No. 12414, which has been passed by the Verkhovna Rada, destroys the independence of Ukraines anti-corruption agencies, turning them into subdivisions of the unreformed and politically dependent prosecutor's office, as well as significantly limiting the effectiveness of these bodies, depriving them of the ability to maintain the confidentiality of investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In essence, this implies the destruction of one of the key factors that keep the door to the European Union open for Ukraine and ensure the trust and support of our European partners, which is vital in times of war," the statement said. Among other things, the CEO Club Ukraine noted that this creates grounds for rolling back existing achievements in terms of European integration and greatly increases the financial risks for Ukraine. "Knowing the position of our European partners, we regard the current events as a disruption of the path towards European integration that has been paid for not only by the hundreds of lives of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred, but also the many thousands of lives of the heroes of the ATO and later the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the full-scale war," the statement said. [The ATO or Anti-Terrorist Operation is a term used from 2014 to 2018 to identify combat actions in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts against Russian military forces and pro-Russian separatists ed.] The statement continued: "Together with the disruption of the reboot of the Economic Security Bureau and the High Qualification Commission of Judges, and the application of politically motivated selective justice to civil society activists, military personnel, journalists, etc., this creates a feeling of returning to 2013, when Ukraine's geopolitical and civilisational choice had not yet been made." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full list of signatories is available here. Background: On 22 July, the Verkhovna Rada voted for the controversial bill No. 12414, which limits the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the law despite appeals from activists, concern from the European Union, and mass protests in Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! South Korea is actively exploring options to enhance its relationship with North Korea, a Unification Ministry spokesperson confirmed on Monday. This comes amid reports that Seoul is contemplating allowing individual tours to the North. Koo Byung-sam, the ministry's spokesperson for inter-Korea affairs, refrained from commenting on the "particular issue" directly. However, Mr Koo clarified his understanding that individual tours would not breach international sanctions. Tourism is one of a narrow range of cash sources for North Korea that are not targeted under United Nations sanctions over its nuclear and weapons programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has pledged to improve strained relations with Pyongyang that have reached their worst level in years. In a bid to ease tensions, Lee suspended anti-North Korea loudspeaker broadcasts along the border and ordered a halt to leaflet campaigns criticising the North's leaders by anti-Pyongyang activists. The president has said he will discuss further plans with top security officials to resume dialogue with North Korea that is technically at war with the South. North Korea opened a massive resort area on its east coast, state media said on 2 July. Later, Kim Jong Un welcomed Russian foreign minister at the tourism zone. South Korea dubbed the tourism zone 'North Korea's Waikiki' (KCNA) North Korea recently opened a beach resort in the city of Wonsan, a flagship project driven by leader Kim Jong Un to promote tourism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, the tourist area is temporarily not accepting foreign visitors, according to a July 16 note by DPR Korea Tour, a website operated by North Korea's National Tourism Administration. North Korea first needs to open the area to the outside world, the Unification Ministry spokesperson said, asked if South Koreans could travel to Wonsan. South Korea once ran tours to North Korea's Mount Kumgang area, but suspended them in 2008, when a South Korean tourist was shot dead by a North Korean soldier. ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkey will directly intervene to stop any attempt to fragment Syria and will prevent any attempts by militants to obtain autonomy after clashes in southern Syria, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Tuesday. His warning against fragmentation, in comments to reporters in Ankara, appeared aimed at Israel as Turkey considers this to be Israel's ultimate aim in Syria. Turkey has condemned Israeli strikes on Damascus last week as an attempt to sabotage Syria's efforts to establish peace and security, and sees clashes between Druze fighters and Syrian Bedouin tribes in the southern province of Sweida as part of an Israeli policy of regional destabilisation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO member Turkey supports Syria's new government and has called for a ceasefire between the Bedouin and Druze fighters. Fidan said Israel wanted a divided Syria to make the country unstable, weaker and a liability to the region, and added that Kurdish YPG militants were looking to take advantage of the chaos. "God willing, we will prevent this policy from being realised," he said. In an apparent reference to the YPG, he said groups in Syria should not see such chaos as a tactical opportunity to achieve autonomy or independence within Syria and that they faced "a big strategic catastrophe". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This leads nowhere," he said. Ankara sees the YPG, which spearheads the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, as a terrorist organisation, and has carried out several cross-border operations against them. "We are warning you: no group should engage in acts towards division," Fidan said. He said many issues could be discussed via diplomacy "but if you go beyond this and seek fragmentation and destabilising we will consider this a direct threat to our security and intervene." Fidan said Turkey would support efforts to secure peace and stability in Syria, and talks on this, but would not let itself be exposed to threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel did not immediately comment on Fidan's remarks. It said it struck targets in Syria last week to defend the Druze. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu, Writing by Huseyin Hayatsever; Editing by Ece Toksabay and Timothy Heritage) Bryan Kohberger was sentenced on Wednesday to life in prison without the possibility of parole in the 2022 killings of four University of Idaho students. The murder victims Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin were found stabbed to death in their off-campus rental home in Moscow, Idaho, on Nov. 13, 2022. Prosecutors laid out key DNA evidence, surveillance footage and cellphone records that linked Kohberger to the killings. Kohberger, 30, was expected to go through a lengthy and highly publicized trial in August. But in a surprise turn, he pleaded guilty on July 2 as part of a plea deal to avoid the death penalty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four consecutive life sentences, plus 10 years for a charge of burglary, in addition to fines totaling $270,000. This unfathomable and senseless act of evil has caused immeasurable pain and loss, Hippler said. Parents who took their children to college in a truck filled with moving boxes had to bring them home in hearses lined with coffins. Before his sentence was handed down, friends and family members of the victims were given the opportunity to address Kohberger directly, delivering more than two hours of impact statements that were emotional and often marked by anger. "I will call you what you are. Sociopath. Psychopath. Murderer," Alivea Goncalves, Kaylees sister, told Kohberger, who sat expressionless at the defense table. You didnt win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are. Youre a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You're gonna go to hell," Xana Kernodle's stepfather Randy Davis told Kohberger in court. "You're evil. You are going to suffer." Kohberger declined to speak at the hearing. Read the blog posts below for a recap of what happened during Wednesday's sentencing from our own reporting, as well as various reporters and news organizations, including CNN, NewsNation, NBC News and the Associated Press. The Statue of Liberty's promise still stands, but President Donald Trump is doing his best to work around it. Zendaya has made a return to Budapest, where she was recently photographed visiting Neroli, a high-end perfumery located on the iconic Andrassy Avenue. The store shared the moment on Instagram, posting a photo of the actress smiling alongside staff and writing: The most beautiful surprise! Our dearest world star is back with us Thank you #Zendaya for visiting NEROLI today. Though not officially confirmed, Zendaya is likely in Hungary for the production of Dune: Messiah. The franchise has a history of filming in Budapest, with both previous instalments partially shot at Origo Studios. Current industry reports suggest the third film has entered production, and Hungary is once again expected to play a significant role in its shoot. Zendaya, who portrays Chani in the Dune series, spent extended periods in Budapest during the filming of Dune: Part Two. Her appearance this week has reignited speculation among fans and local media about the continuation of the sci-fi epic on Hungarian soil. If Dune: Part Three is indeed underway in the Hungarian capital, it would mark another major project for Origo Studios and further cement Budapests reputation as a premier hub for international film production. ********************************* 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 Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop: As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here. As a foreigner working in Hungary, you will be eligible for an unemployment benefit only if you are allowed to stay in Hungary once you are out of a job. The other important requirement is having worked at least 360 days over the last 3 years. Residency and unemployment To determine if you will be eligible for unemployment once your current job is terminated, the first thing to check is whether you will be able to stay in Hungary. Most work-related residence permits are tied to the job and expect holders to leave Hungary once the employment relationship is terminated. As a result, you will be able to receive the benefit only if you are: an EU / EEA national, or a third country national with permanent residency (National Residence Card, EU Residence Card, Interim Residence Card), or a refugee or a beneficiary of subsidiary protection. If you cannot stay in Hungary, you will not be able to receive the unemployment benefit. The easiest way to determine if you are eligible is whether you have an address card, which is a simple indicator of your legal status in Hungary. If you do not have an address card, you will probably not be eligible for the unemployment benefit. Jobseekers allowance If you are allowed to stay, you can apply for the unemployment benefit that is officially called jobseekers allowance if you had an employment relationship for at least 360 days over the last 3 years. This includes both full-time or part-time jobs. Please note: student work does not make you eligible for the jobseekers allowance. As a student, your main job is being a student, and you are not paying the contributions the unemployment benefit is based on. For example: if you were studying at a Hungarian university for 3 years and you were doing student work throughout, and now you are in Hungary with a jobseeker permit, you are not eligible for the jobseekers allowance. What to expect if you are eligible? You will need to apply for the unemployment benefit at the local Labor Department (you can do it online too). You will need the exit documents you received from your employer. You can receive the jobseekers allowance for at most 90 days. The exact length depends on how long you were employed over the last 3 years: for every 10 days spent in employment, you get 1 day on benefits. The amount you receive depends on your previous income. Specifically, it is based on your average gross salary over the last 4 quarters. (Technically, the calculation is based on your labor market contribution base, which usually matches your gross salary.) You will receive at most 60% of that average, but there is a cap: the amount cannot exceed the minimum wage, which is HUF 290,800 per month in 2025. The jobseekers allowance is calculated per day and paid like a regular salary, by the 10th of the month following the month youre receiving the benefit for. Taxes and healthcare The unemployment benefit is taxable income, so you will need to pay taxes on the amount calculated by the above method. The tax rate is normally 25%, made up of the 15% personal income tax and the 10% pension contribution. If you are eligible for tax benefits, make sure to indicate this when you apply. While you are receiving the jobseekers allowance, you will still have access to public healthcare, just like when you were employed. If you dont find a new job before your allowance ends, you can stay insured by paying the healthcare contribution yourself, which will cost HUF 390 per day, or HUF 11,800 per month. Finding new employment Once you have found your next job, you must inform the Labor Department of your starting date, supported by a copy of your new labor contract. They will then cancel your allowance. About Helpers Hungary Helpers provides administrative assistance to foreigners living, working, and doing business in Hungary. Our main focus is business setup and residency application, but we are also committed to providing practical information to expats living in Hungary that can make your life easier. Source: Helpers.hu - republished with permission ********************************* 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 Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop: As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here. Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav declared Anupam Kher's 'Tanvi The Great' tax-free in the state. The announcement was made on Tuesday after he attended a special screening of the film in Bhopal. CM Yadav was received by a team of delegates and Kher himself. Debutant actor Shubhangi Dutta, who plays a key role in the film, was also present at the screening. "Today, I had the opportunity to watch the film Tanvi The Great with the renowned actor and director Shri @AnupamPKher ji in Bhopal. I announce that the film will be made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh," CM Yadav stated in a post on X. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Heaping praise on the film, he added, "This touching film, dedicated to the struggles, determination, and dreams of an autistic girl, inspires people to be more sensitive, humane, and compassionate towards such special children. Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Shri Kher ji and his entire team for this wonderful film." Speaking to ANI, Anupam Kher said that his film has been made with an aim to encourage the youth, to push them toward their goals. "We want to motivate the youth about the importance of hard work and honesty," the actor said. He also shared hopes of shooting more films in Madhya Pradesh. Prior to this, President Droupadi Murmu and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, also attended the film's screening and were full of praise for its inspiring content. Centred on the Indian Army and autism, 'Tanvi The Great' tells the story of a young girl (Shubhangi Dutt) who lives with her mother and grandfather (Anupam Kher). Inspired by her late father, she is determined to join the armed forces. The film also features Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Karan Tacker, Arvind Swami, Nasser, and British actor Iain Glen. Produced by Anupam Kher Studios along with NFDC, the film has received global accolades during its festival run in Cannes, New York, London, and Houston. It also earned standing ovations at special previews held at the National Defence Academy and the Southern Command in Pune. New Delhi: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday announced that Anupam Kher's directorial 'Tanvi The Great' will be tax-free in Delhi. In a post on X, CM Rekha Gupta wrote, "I am pleased to share that the Delhi Government has declared the film 'Tanvi the Great' tax-free in the state. With an impactful narrative of inclusion, the film is an inspiring story of a young, 'special' girl-Tanvi, who is determined to achieve her dreams against all odds." "Tanvi's story is emotional and inspirational. We are committed to promote films that strengthens the spirit of Rashtra Seva, ignites patriotism, and awakens the conscience of the nation. Best wishes to the entire team of the film," her post read. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Take A Look At The Post: I am pleased to share that the Delhi Government has declared the film 'Tanvi the Great' tax-free in the state. With an impactful narrative of inclusion, the film is an inspiring story of a young, 'special' girl-Tanvi, who is determined to achieve her dreams against all odds._ pic.twitter.com/sQNb6GpCrO Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) July 23, 2025 CM Rekha Gupta also shared a picture with Kher and actor Shubhangi Dutt from the film's screening which conducted in the national capital recently. Earlier, on Monday, the film was declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh by the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. "Today, I had the opportunity to watch the film *Tanvi The Great* with the renowned actor and director Shri @AnupamPKher ji in Bhopal. I announce that the film will be made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh," CM Yadav stated in a post on X. Centred on the Indian Army and autism, 'Tanvi The Great' tells the story of a young girl (Shubhangi Dutt) who lives with her mother and grandfather (Anupam Kher). Inspired by her late father, she is determined to join the armed forces. The film also features Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Karan Tacker, Arvind Swami, Nasser, and British actor Iain Glen. Produced by Anupam Kher Studios along with NFDC, the film has received global accolades during its festival run in Cannes, New York, London, and Houston. It also earned standing ovations at special previews held at the National Defence Academy and the Southern Command in Pune. New Delhi: IT services giant Infosys on Wednesday reported a 1.61 per cent decline in net profit on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis for the AprilJune quarter, with the figure standing at Rs 6,924 crore compared to Rs 7,038 crore in the previous March quarter (Q4 FY25). However, on a year-on-year (YoY) basis, the company posted an 8.7 per cent rise in net profit, according to its stock exchange filing. The companys revenue rose 7.5 per cent YoY to Rs 42,279 crore, while on a sequential basis, revenue was up by 3.3 per cent, compared to Rs 40,925 crore in Q4 FY25. The companys total expenses rose slightly to Rs 33,581 crore in Q1, compared to Rs 32,452 crore in the previous quarter. Infosys gross profit also improved to Rs 13,055 crore, from Rs 12,138 crore in the year-ago quarter. Infosys revised its full-year FY26 revenue growth guidance to 1-3 per cent in constant currency, raising the lower end of the forecast. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source CEO and MD Salil Parekh said the Q1 performance reflects the companys strength in enterprise AI, client consolidation, and the dedication of its over 3 lakh employees. The company secured $3.8 billion in large deals during the quarter, with 55 per cent of the wins coming from new clients -- further strengthening its position in the global IT market. In terms of operating margins, Infosys posted 20.8 per cent in Q1, slightly down by 0.3 per cent YoY and 0.2 per cent QoQ, but remains confident of maintaining the margin in the 2022 per cent range for FY26. Among business verticals, financial services led the growth with 5.6 per cent YoY increase in constant currency (CC) terms. The manufacturing segment also posted strong growth at 12.2 per cent, while retail and hi-tech showed minor improvements. However, life sciences declined 7.9 per cent, and other segments contracted 15.3 per cent. Infosys also reported robust free cash flow of $884 million, with cash flow conversion exceeding 100 per cent for the fifth consecutive quarter. CFO Jayesh Sanghrajka said the impact of currency volatility was well managed due to Infosys proactive hedging strategy. On the human resources front, Infosys reported a slight increase in voluntary attrition, which rose to 14.4 per cent in Q1 from 14.1 per cent in Q4, and 12.7 per cent in Q1 FY25. The companys workforce stood at 323,788 employees at the end of June 2025 -- reflecting a net addition of 210 employees during the quarter and a year-on-year increase of 8,456. Infosys shares closed 0.8 per cent lower at Rs 1,558.9 on the NSE on Wednesday, ahead of the earnings announcement. New Delhi: A shocking fraud has come to light at SBIs Sadiq branch in Faridkot. A bank clerk allegedly swindled crores of rupees from customer accounts, fixed deposits, and credit limits, reported The Tribune. The clerk is said to have vanished after the scam was uncovered. This leaves customers stunned and the bank scrambling to investigate. Panic Outside SBI as Accounts Wiped Clean On Wednesday, panic gripped customers visiting the SBI Sadiq branch as many discovered their accounts had been wiped clean. Heartbreaking scenes unfolded outside the bank with elderly customers and women in tears, saying their entire life savings had disappeared. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Clerk on the Run as SBI Fraud Unfolds The fraud was exposed when customers noticed unauthorized withdrawals from their accounts. Upon verification, bank officials were alarmed to find large sums missing from several accounts. Initial suspicion points to a bank clerk, who has since gone missing. Several customers were shocked to learn that their fixed deposits had been closed without consent, nominee details tampered with and funds redirected elsewhere. One of the victims, Paramjit Kaur, said her joint FD of Rs 22 lakh was fraudulently withdrawn. Another customer, Sandeep Singh, shared that four of his FDseach worth Rs 4 lakhhad mysteriously shrunk to just Rs 50,000 each. Sources quoted by The Tribune revealed that, so far, fraud amounting to nearly Rs 5 crore has been uncovered. Bank officials assured customers that their accounts are being reviewed and the missing funds will be restored. Sushant Arora, the banks field officer, said he had joined the branch only a few days ago and learned about the fraud when multiple customers approached him on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Sadiq police station in-charge Navdeep Bhatti confirmed that a case has been registered against bank clerk Amit Dhingra following four complaints of fraud. New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced on Wednesday that it has cancelled the licence of The Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd in Karnataka as it does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. Consequently, the bank ceases to carry on banking business, with effect from the close of business on July 23, 2025. The Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd., Karwar, is prohibited from conducting the business of banking which includes, among other things, acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits with immediate effect, the RBI order stated. The Registrar of Cooperative Societies, Karnataka, has also been requested to issue an order for winding up the bank and appoint a liquidator for the bank, according to the RBI statement. The RBI said the licence has been cancelled as the Karwar Urban Co-operative Bank does not have adequate capital and earning prospects. As such, it does not comply with the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The continuance of the bank is prejudicial to the interests of its depositors, the RBI said. The bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full; and public interest would be adversely affected if the bank is allowed to carry on its banking business any further, the RBI statement explained. On liquidation, every depositor would be entitled to receive the deposit insurance claim amount of his/her deposits up to a monetary ceiling of Rs 5,00,000 from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), subject to the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. As per the data submitted by the bank, 92.90 per cent of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC. As of June 30, 2025, DICGC has already paid Rs 37.79 crore of the total insured deposits under the provisions of Section 18A of the DICGC Act, 1961, based on the willingness received from the concerned depositors of the bank, the RBI statement added. SSC MTS Registration 2025: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will close the registration process for the SSC MTS 2025 exam on July 24, 2025. Interested candidates who wish to apply for the Multi-Tasking (Non-Technical) Staff and Havaldar posts under CBIC and CBN can access the application link through the official SSC website at ssc.gov.in. The application correction window will be available from July 29 to July 31, 2025. The computer-based examination is scheduled to take place between September 20 and October 24, 2025. This recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 1,075 Havaldar vacancies across CBIC and CBN departments. SSC MTS Registration 2025: Eligibility Criteria Add Zee News as a Preferred Source To be eligible for SSC MTS and Havaldar Recruitment 2025, candidates must have passed Class 10 or its equivalent from a recognised board. MTS Post: Applicants should be between 18 and 25 years old, with birth dates falling between August 2, 2000, and August 1, 2007. Havaldar Post: Candidates must be aged between 18 and 27, born between August 2, 1998, and August 1, 2007. Age relaxations will be provided to candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD), and Ex-servicemen, as per existing government rules. SSC MTS Registration 2025: Steps to apply here Step 1: Go to the official SSC website at ssc.gov.in. Step 2: Click on the SSC MTS 2025 registration link available on the homepage. Step 3: Enter your login credentials and submit to proceed. Step 4: Complete the application form, pay the required application fee, and submit the form. Step 5: Download the confirmation page and print a copy for future use. SSC MTS Registration 2025: Application fees The application fee for SSC MTS 2025 is Rs 100. However, women applicants and candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD), and eligible Ex-servicemen (ESM) are exempted from paying the fee. Payment must be made online using BHIM UPI, Net Banking, or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, or RuPay). An Air India Express flight traveling from Calicut International Airport to Doha was forced to return a few hours after departure on Wednesday due to a technical issue. Flight number IX 375, carrying 188 passengers including pilots and crew, took off from Calicut at 9:07 am but returned to the same airport two hours later at 11:12 am, PTI reported, quoting an airport official. An Air India Express spokesperson said that they have arranged an alternative aircraft on priority and provided the guests with refreshments. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source This comes a day after an Air India flight operating from Hong Kong to Delhi suffered an auxiliary power unit (APU) fire shortly after the aircraft landed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport. The APU is a small engine located typically at the tail of an aircraft. It provides power to essential systems when the main engines are off, such as during boarding, disembarkation, or while the aircraft is parked at the gate. According to the airline, the incident occurred while the aircraft was parked at the gate and passengers had begun to disembark. Flight AI 315, operating from Hong Kong to Delhi on 22 July 2025, experienced an auxiliary power unit (APU) fire shortly after it had landed and parked at the gate. The incident occurred while passengers had begun disembarking, and the APU was automatically shut down as per system design," an Air India spokesperson said in a statement. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew members. The aircraft remains grounded at Delhi pending a technical evaluation and inspection by regulatory authorities. On Monday, a technical issue was detected during the take-off roll of Air India flight AI2403 from Delhi to Kolkata evening, which led the cockpit crew to abort the take-off in line with established safety protocols. (With ANI Inputs) Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday reacted to a report claiming bungling in identifying the bodies of Britons killed in the crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad. External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal asserted that all mortal remains were handled with utmost "professionalism". The crash of a Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad on June 12 claimed the lives of all but one of the 242 passengers on board, along with 19 people on the ground. Among the deceased were 52 British nationals. The aircraft lost power shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London and crashed soon thereafter. Earlier, Britains Daily Mail reported that the remains of two British victims were mistakenly identified before being repatriated to the UK. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Reacting to this claim, MEA spokesperson said, We have seen the report and have been working closely with the UK side from the moment these concerns and issues were brought to our attention." Our response to media queries regarding a report in the Daily Mail on the Air India crash https://t.co/pTWIIMSBhi pic.twitter.com/IP9QgLNuz7 Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) July 23, 2025 "In the wake of the tragic crash, the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements. All mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased," he added. A political controversy has erupted following Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and his wife, SP MP Dimple Yadav's recent visit to a mosque near Parliament. BJP Minority Morcha National President Jamal Siddiqui claimed the meeting reflected Akhilesh Yadavs attitude of believing that all Islamic religious places are under his control. Surface photographs of the mosque visit show SP leaders, including Dimple Yadav, seated with several others. "I condemn the way Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav has conducted a meeting in the pious mosque in front of the Parliament. This shows Akhilesh Yadav thinks all Islamic religious places are in his pocket... BJP and Minority Morcha will protest against them," Siddiqui said, ANI reported. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Siddiqui also slammed Mohibbullah Nadvi, the mosques Imam, for permitting the meeting, saying it was inappropriate given his role as a representative of the Muslim community. He hits out at Mohibbullah Nadvi, the Imam of the mosque, for letting the meeting take place despite being a representative of the Muslims. The Assam Police has arrested a man for allegedly working as a linkman for the banned militant group ULFA-I, officials said on Wednesday. The accused has been identified as Supritam Kaur and taken into custody by security personnel from Dimapur. Police say the accused had actively provided vital information to ULFA-I and has links with the banned NSCN group. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source A senior police official said, "Kaur has been actively involved in supplying key information to ULFA-I. He has links with another outlawed group NSCN also. The person has been interrogated to unearth further links with the banned outfits." Recently, the NIA arrested two more accused in connection with the recovery of an IED planted by the ULFA-I terror group at Dispur Last Gate, Guwahati, as part of a conspiracy to carry out multiple blasts in Assam on Independence Day in 2024. Bhargob Gogoi and Sumu Gogoi, both residents of Dibrugarh district of Assam, were involved in the conspiracy orchestrated by the proscribed terrorist organisation to strike terror and threaten the sovereignty, security, and integrity of the nation, said the National Investigation Agency (NIA). With their arrest, the total number of accused arrested in the conspiracy case has gone up to three. The NIA, which took over the investigation into the case from Dispur police in September last year, had last month charge-sheeted three accused in the case under various sections of the BNS, UA(P) Act and the Explosives Substance Act. The three charge-sheeted accused included Paresh Baruah alias Paresh Asom alias Kamruj Zaman Khan alias Nur-uz-Zaman alias Zaman Bhai alias Pradip alias Paban Baruah, chairman and SS Commander-in-Chief of the proscribed terrorist groups ULFA-I. The other two accused named in the charge sheet were Abhijit Gogoi alias Abhijeet Gogoi alias Aishang Asom alias Aishang alias Aishang Axom alias Rumel Asom alias Dhanajoy Moran and Jahnu Boruah alias Arnob Asom alias Huntu. Earlier in the month, ULFA-I claimed that its Eastern headquarters in Myanmar had been targeted by the Indian Army with drones in the early hours a claim denied by the Army. The proscribed outfit in a press statement claimed that in these cross-border strikes, their 19 cadres were killed and another 19 were injured. (With IANS Inputs) The Union government has strongly defended the Uttar Pradesh government's proactive School Pairing Initiative, a strategic policy designed to revolutionize basic education by consolidating under-enrolled schools. This robust defense comes as BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla's recent tweet ignited widespread public discussion, highlighting the true intent behind the reported merger of over 26,000 schools in the state. Contrary to misleading narratives suggesting widespread closures, government officials and policy documents emphasize that the initiative involves judiciously merging schools with fewer than 50 students into nearby, well-equipped institutions. These mergers occur within a 1 km radius for primary schools and a 3 km radius for upper primary schools, a move aimed at optimizing resource utilization, enhancing infrastructure, and ultimately improving learning outcomes for students. Heres a quick lesson for those who gave Madhushala instead of PaathShala Black to White facts ka nahi karna chahiye While some spin half-truths for headlines, UP under CM Yogi is fixing what agenda-peddlers others ignored for decades. So here are the facts - 1) 26,000+ https://t.co/AwzMRlCNji Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) July 22, 2025 Add Zee News as a Preferred Source This forward-thinking School Pairing Initiative is an integral part of the BJP government's broader commitment to addressing long-standing challenges in rural government education. It tackles critical issues such as low enrollment, inefficient teacher deployment, and underutilized facilities head-on. Merged schools are not being abandoned; instead, they are undergoing significant upgrades under flagship programs like Project Alankar, which provides for modern amenities including smart classrooms, state-of-the-art science labs, clean drinking water facilities, and sustainable solar power. Furthermore, a visionary aspect of this policy involves repurposing vacated school buildings into vibrant Anganwadi centres and Bal Vatikas. This innovative approach directly contributes to expanding critical early childhood education infrastructure, ensuring holistic development from an early age. Importantly, the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of 1,200 per student for uniforms, shoes, and stationery remains entirely unaffected, underscoring the government's unwavering commitment to student welfare. The positive impact of this initiative is already evident in districts like Prayagraj, where reports indicate improved student attendance and a more efficient consolidation of educational resources. The policy's strength was further affirmed in July 2024 when the Allahabad High Court upheld its constitutional validity and public interest justification, decisively dismissing all challenges brought against the mergers. This judicial endorsement solidifies the government's position on the legality and benefits of the program. Uttar Pradesh's pioneering model aligns seamlessly with successful education reforms implemented in other states under BJP or allied governments, including Rajasthan (over 17,000 school mergers), Madhya Pradesh (16,076), Odisha (over 9,000), and Jharkhand. These states have similarly undertaken school rationalization efforts to boost efficiency, optimize student-teacher ratios, and enhance the overall quality of public education. As the discourse around education reform continues, the Uttar Pradesh experience stands as a powerful testament to the BJP government's dedication to achieving a crucial balance: expanding access to education while rigorously ensuring its quality in public schooling, thereby securing a brighter future for countless students. A new form of terrorism called 'Cyber Jihad', reportedly orchestrated by ISI-backed terror masterminds across the border, has been launched to bypass the strong counter-terrorism framework in Jammu and Kashmir. The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has uncovered and dismantled five digital modules that were running this operation. These modules were part of a broader strategy aimed at radicalizing local youth through encrypted online platforms, spreading extremist propaganda, and recruiting them into terrorist outfits. Terrorist commanders have shifted their modus operandi, leveraging digital platforms under the banner of Cyber Jihad. They are now targeting vulnerable youth online, spreading misinformation, and recruiting for terror organizations using encrypted communication apps like Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, Wire, and Session. These platforms are chosen specifically for their end-to-end encryption, making it difficult for intelligence agencies to intercept communications. Initial contact is often made through public social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Facebook. The handlers monitor posts expressing dissent or religious fervour and then move the conversation to private encrypted apps for indoctrination and recruitment. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Propaganda materialsranging from videos glorifying terrorism to fabricated stories of atrocities by Indian security forcesare shared with potential recruits. Audio messages invoking religious duty or "jihad" are also circulated. Terrorists often exploit youth dealing with political grievances, unemployment, or personal challenges. The youth targeted are generally under 25 and come from specific socio-economic backgrounds. Handlers work to make them feel understood and connected, often posing as mentors or spiritual guides. Pakistan-Based Network Behind Operations Groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), The Resistance Front (TRF), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) are primarily behind these digital campaigns, with support from Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). A key figure identified in recent operations is Abdullah Ghazi, a senior Jaish-e-Mohammed member who ran a digital recruitment cell from Rawalpindi. Ghazi radicalized youth through encrypted chats, promoting terrorism as a path of valor and religious duty. His operation was sophisticated, involving step-by-step indoctrination, training, and task assignment. The CIK, with support from Indian intelligence agencies, recently launched a major operation against this digital terror module. Ten locations across Srinagar, Budgam, Pulwama, and Ganderbal were raided. The operation used advanced surveillance tools like deep packet inspection, protocol bypass, and geo-tracking to trace Ghazis digital movements and dismantle his network. This was the fifth major cyber module busted by CIK. Previous Cyber Modules Busted: * Terror Funding Module (LeT): Operated by a Pakistani handler known as Sumama alias Babar alias Ilyas, this module focused on smuggling funds from Gulf countries to support recruitment and operations in Kashmir. * Extortion Module (Hizbul Mujahideen): Run by Janbaaz Ghazi alias Ghazi Baba, this unit extorted money from local residents to fund terror activities. * Courier Recruitment Module (Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind): * Managed by Baba Hamas alias Hanjullah, this group attempted to recruit youth as couriers for arms and ammunition. * Religious Radicalization Module (Tehreek Labaik Ya Muslim - TLM): Led by the same handler, Baba Hamas, this faction pushed radical narratives and encouraged youth to join terror outfits. CIK's Response and Challenges Ahead SSP Tahir Ashraf Butti of CIK confirmed that five digital modules have been neutralized so far, and several individuals have been arrested. He emphasized, "Pakistan is trying its best to radicalize local youth and push them towards terrorism, but our operations are ongoing to stop this recruitment drive. This effort will continue." The shift toward digital recruitment comes in the wake of a steep decline in local terrorist recruitment in Jammu and Kashmir. Official data reveals that only one new local recruit has emerged in 2025marking the lowest number in the past 36 years. A large portion of local terrorists recruited between 2019 and 2023 have been neutralized, and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) have also dwindled due to security crackdowns. This has forced Pakistan to rely on cyber tactics to sustain terrorism. Online Recruitment Tactics Handlers exploit personal vulnerabilitiesromantic issues, family disputes, or a desire for social recognition. Some youth are lured by religious rhetoric, others by promises of fame or money. Once radicalized, they are assigned roles such as transporting weapons, gathering intelligence on security forces, sharing propaganda material online and executing low-level attacks like grenade lobbing or graffiti campaigns. Encrypted instructions often use coded languagebooks for weapons, meetings for attacks, and walks for arms movement. Recruits are promised financial rewards, with payments made via hawala, crypto, or anonymous cash drops, according to statements from arrested youth. SSP Tahir Ashraf Butti reiterated, Our mission is to prevent youth from being misled. These efforts by the enemy are deliberate and systematic, but we are identifying modules, monitoring communications, and taking timely action. We will not let our youth be used as pawns in a proxy war. Cyber Jihad has emerged as Pakistans latest tactic to continue its disruptive agenda in Kashmir while maintaining plausible deniability. The involvement of ISI, encrypted tools, and sleeper cells showcases a dangerous shift in terror operations, requiring continuous vigilance and advanced countermeasures. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his ministers on Wednesday lashed out at the BJP and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant over the latter's remark about the Mahadayi project. Notably, Goa CM Sawant told the state legislative assembly that Union Minister for Environment and Forests Bhupendra Yadav has assured that the Central government will not okay the Mahadayi project. Sawant also told the legislative assembly on Tuesday that the Goa government would file a contempt petition in the Supreme Court against the Karnataka government for carrying out activities aimed at diverting Mahadayi river water. The two states are locked in a decades-old dispute over the sharing of Mahadayi river water. Now, CM Siddaramaiah said that the state government will fight it legally and politically. "Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his ministers on Wednesday lashed out at the BJP and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. The Goa CMs arrogant remark on the Mahadayi project is an insult to the people of Karnataka. Why hasnt the Union Govt officially communicated any concerns? Is this how federalism works under BJP? Backdoor sabotage, silence, and betrayal?" said Siddaramaiah. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The Karnataka CM asked whether Kannadigas are being punished for not surrendering to the BJP. "Mahadayi is not for luxury or waste, it is for the drinking water needs of North Karnataka. For decades, our people have waited for justice. But BJPs and Janata Dal (S) Karnataka leaders have no spine to speak up. Their silence today will be remembered tomorrow," he said. The Karnataka Chief Minister said that despite the 2018 tribunal verdict allocating 13.42 TMC of water to the state, the Central government in connivance with Goas BJP government, is blocking the implementation of the rightful project. "This project will quench the thirst of over 40 lakh people in Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Bagalkot and nearby regions. It is a lifeline, not a bargaining chip. We will fight legally, politically, and morally until Karnataka gets its rightful share," said the CM. Earlier on Wednesday, Karnataka Minister H K Patil termed the Goa CM's statement as shocking. "The official statement made by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the Legislative Assemblythat Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has informed him the Centre will, under no circumstances, approve the Mahadayi projecthas come as a shock to Karnataka," he said. The Mahadayi river originates in the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka and flows through Goa and Maharashtra before emptying into the Arabian Sea at Panaji. India will resume granting tourist visas to Chinese nationals from July 24, 2025, the Indian embassy in China stated on Wednesday. It is the first time in five years that tourist visas will be granted, a major move as the two nations seek to relieve tensions and boost bilateral relations that gravely deteriorated after the fatal Galwan Valley conflict in 2020. The development has come against the backdrop of a string of mutually reinforcing measures to re-establish confidence-building and cooperation. India and China had already agreed in principle earlier this year to resume direct air services, which were halted owing to the COVID-19 pandemic and border confrontations. Moreover, the renewal of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage, which is a sacred pilgrimage for numerous Indian pilgrims, was also finalized for this summer, whose modalities are now being negotiated. In a readout issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, during their meeting in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024, decided to implement people-centric measures for stabilization and rebuilding of relations. During this meeting, both the leaders reviewed India-China bilateral relations in detail and laid stress on restoring mutual trust. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Additional diplomatic actions include mutual consent between the top officials of both countries to have an early meeting of the expert-level mechanism to discuss resuming provision of hydrological data and other cooperation concerning trans-border rivers. Acknowledging 2025 as the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, both sides pledged to double up diplomacy efforts to create improved mutual understanding and public trust. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also went to China earlier this month, his first visit to the country's neighboring nation in five years, for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers meeting wherein he urged "continued normalisation" of relations. The bilateral ties reached an all-time low following the June 2020 Galwan Valley clash that caused casualties on both sides and was the worst border skirmish in more than four decades. China's Drive for Closer Relations Amidst Complications Notwithstanding the persistence of challenges, China has also wanted to stabilize relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi declared, in March 2025, that Beijing's ties with New Delhi have registered "positive strides" during the last year, stressing that cooperation is mutually beneficial to both countries. Wang reasserted China's belief that the two countries should be "partners who contribute to each other's success" and called a "cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant" the only right option. But the issue of achieving a complete normalized relationship is not free from complications. Recent Chinese trade measures have caused concern in New Delhi, with news of slowing down or suspension of crucial exports to India, such as rare earth magnets, fertilizers, and even tunnel boring equipment necessary for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. In addition, China's so-called "covert and overt support" for Pakistan in May border clashes remains a contentious issue, pending to mar constructive exchanges. India has extended medical support to Bangladesh following the devastating fighter jet crash in Dhaka on July 21, which claimed at least 31 lives and injured over 170 people, many of them children. The crash occurred when a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training aircraft slammed into the Milestone School and College campus in Uttara, a densely populated suburb of the capital, triggering a massive explosion and fire. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences over the tragedy and assured Bangladesh of Indias full support. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source In a follow-up to his message, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka formally reached out to the Bangladeshi government, offering critical medical assistance for the injured. A specialised team of burn-care doctors and nurses is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka shortly, equipped with advanced medical supplies and diagnostic tools. The team will assess the condition of the victims and recommend further treatment, including possible transfer to Indian medical facilities for specialised care. Additional medical teams may be dispatched based on the initial findings. The crash has sparked national mourning in Bangladesh, with flags flown at half-mast and widespread public grief. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Toukir Islam, reportedly attempted to divert the aircraft away from populated areas before impact. Among the deceased were 25 schoolchildren and a teacher who died while rescuing students. Many of the injured are being treated at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, where doctors report critical burn cases requiring long-term care. Indias swift response underscores the humanitarian dimension of its regional diplomacy and reflects the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. The gesture has been widely welcomed in Bangladesh, where public anger is mounting over the use of ageing aircraft for training missions in urban zones. As investigations continue into the cause of the crash, Indias medical outreach is expected to play a vital role in the recovery of survivors and the broader healing process. The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter aviation safety protocols and better urban planning to prevent future disasters. Police are reopening the cases against Monojit Mishra, the prime accused in the case of raping a law college student at Kasba in Kolkata, sources said on Wednesday. Sources in the city police said that altogether 12 cases were registered against Mishra on various charges, namely hooliganism, causing injuries through weapons, beating up junior students by bringing in anti-social elements from outside within the campus, and most importantly, repeated complaints of sexual harassment of female students within the campus. Out of these 12 cases, he added, two cases have already been reopened, and Mishra had also been shown as arrested in these two cases. One of the two cases that have already been reopened against Mishra is one registered in 2023 on charges of both hooliganism and sexual assault. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The other case, which had been reopened, was registered in 2024 on charges of hooliganism. The police and their legal teams are thoroughly examining the other 10 cases registered against him in the past and determining which of these remaining 10 have merit for reopening. However, the questions that started surfacing are that had the police taken prompt action against Mishra at the time when the 12 past cases were registered, the incident of rape within the law college premises could have been avoided. To date, four people have been arrested in connection with the case. They are the three prime accused in the crime of rape, namely Monojit Mishra, Jaib Ahmed, and Pramit Mukhopadhyay. Police had identified Mishra as the perpetrator of the crime, while the other two have been identified as his facilitators in the heinous activity. The fourth arrested person in the case is Pinaki Banerjee, a security guard of the law college, who, as per the statement recorded by the victim with the police immediately after the incident on the evening of June 25, was the "sole helpless" witness to the crime. Meanwhile, a fresh allegation has surfaced against Mishra of facilitating the admission of a certain number of ineligible students at the law college at Kasba every year against receipts of hefty cash ranging between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.50 lakh. HYDERABAD: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Wednesday accused the BJP of stalling 42 per cent reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) by using Muslim community as an excuse. He alleged that the leaders of saffron party were playing politics of sentiment by stating that they would back 42 percent quota for BCs if Muslims are removed from the list of BCs. Addressing a press conference in Delhi, he clarified that Muslims are being extended the benefits of reservation on the basis of their backwardness. He dared BJP to scrap reservation for Muslims in the states ruled by it or its allies. He asked why the BJP was not scrapping Muslim quota in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source He alleged that BJP is adopting double standards on the issue of Muslim reservation and trying to derive political mileage by whipping up passions. You cant have one justice for Telangana and another justice for other states, he remarked. He warned that if BJP oppose Backward Class reservation, the party will be wiped out from Telangana. Revanth Reddy along with some state ministers and Congress leaders arrived in the national capital to mobilise support of various parties for including two state laws for 42 per cent Backward Class reservation in the 9th Schedule of the Constitution. The Chief Minister recalled that the state legislature passed two Bills for 42 per cent quota for BCs in education, employment and public life and sent the same to the Centre for including in the 9th Schedule. Revanth Reddy also pointed out that the local body elections have to be conducted in the state by September as per the direction of the High Court. If 42 percent seats in local bodies are to be reserved for the BCs, the Centre will have to give its approval, he said. The Chief Minister said there was no justification in the argument that total reservations should not cross 50 per cent. He claimed that the Centre crossed this limit long back with 10 per cent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). The Chief Minister also demanded that a leader from Telangana should be made the Vice-President of India. Revanth Reddy said Bandaru Dattatreya, whose tenure as Haryana Governor has just ended, should be made Vice-President. He alleged that since Dattatreya is an OBC leader he was sidelined to make G. Kishan Reddy the union minister. He said similarly Bandi Sanjay was removed as state BJP president and a Brahmin was recently appointed as the state BJP chief. In a major breakthrough ahead of Independence Day, the Gujarat Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested four terrorists reportedly working for the Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), a banned terror outfit. The Gujarat ATS had earlier also busted modules linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS. The arrest of the terrorists ahead of the I-day has sparked security concerns as well. Addressing a press conference, the Gujarat ATS said that the terrorists wanted to establish Shariyat in India by replacing the democracy. The ATS said the terrorists used to spread Al-Qaeda's ideology online using social media. "Gujarat ATS uncovered a terror module linked to Pakistan via Instagram. Four suspects, including mastermind Mohammad Fake from Delhi, were arrested for radicalizing youth, promoting jihad, and planning anti-national activities. Swords, Al-Qaeda materials, and incriminating posts were seized. Joint efforts by Delhi Police, UP ATS, and central agencies led to their 14-day remand. Funding links are under investigation," said ATS DIG Sunil Joshi. "Terror module affiliated with AQIS has been busted by the Gujarat ATS. Four persons linked to the proscribed terror outfit have been arrested," the anti-terror agency said in a statement. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The terrorists were accused of running a fake currency racket and spreading the global terror group's ideology. According to the ATS, one of the four terrorists was arrested from outside Gujarat. The four accused have been identified as Mohd Faiq, Mohd Fardeen, Sefullah Kureshi, and Zeeshan Ali. #WATCH | Gujarat ATS arrested four terrorists with links to AQIS (Al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent). The four have been identified as Mohd Faiq r/o Delhi, Mohd Fardeen r/o Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Sefullah Kureshi r/o Modasa (Gujarat) and Zeeshan Ali r/o Noida (UP). pic.twitter.com/IyFutWglUi ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Ameen Qureshi, brother of the arrested accused Sefullah Kureshi, told PTI that the family had no idea what he was involved in as his behaviour at home was always good, and he seemed very happy. Reports said that they used social media platforms and suspicious apps to spread the terror outfit's ideology. The terrorists were using auto-delete apps so to not leave any trace of their communication footprint. In 2023 June, the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) had arrested four persons allegedly linked to Islamic State of Khorasan Province (ISKP). The arrests were made from Porbandar and Surat. ATS DIG Sunil Joshi has confirmed the development. According to the ATS, the individuals were plotting large-scale terrorist attacks in India. DIG Sunil Joshi further added that a thorough investigation into the matter is currently underway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for the United Kingdom on the first leg of his two-nation visit, which will also take him to the Maldives later this week. The visit to the UK from July 23-24 is aimed at boosting bilateral ties, with the signing of the much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a key highlight. The India-UK FTA, has been under negotiation for three years. This agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90% of British products. The FTA is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, from the current USD 60 billion mark. It will also make it easier for British firms to export products like whisky and cars to India. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source VIDEO | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) emplanes for London, United Kingdom. The Prime Minister will be on a two-day visit to the UK and then visit the Maldives primarily to grace the island nation's Independence Day celebrations as "guest of honour". pic.twitter.com/a67t9ziTv7 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 23, 2025 According to the MEA, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance.Over the years, the India-UK historical ties, have transformed into a robust, multi-faceted, mutually beneficial relationship. The relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. New Delhi and London have seen sustained and frequent high-level political engagements. Prime Minister Modi has met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer twice over the past year. They met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil in November 2024 and again during the G7 Summit in June 2025. Both leaders also had multiple telephonic conversations over the period. A significant marker of the strength of ties is the five Ministerial level Institutional Mechanisms in strategic, economy & finance, trade, energy, science and technology, between the two countries. Other recently held dialogues include Foreign Office Consultation, Defence Consultation Group, 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue.On the economic front, bilateral trade has surpassed a record USD 55 billion in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 10 per cent over 2023. The conclusion of India-UK FTA announced on May 6, 2025 by both Prime Ministers, has been a major milestone in bilateral ties.The two countries have seen sustained and high-level cooperation across several fronts. PM Modi will hold wide-ranging talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, covering trade, defense, climate, innovation, and education. He will also meet King Charles III.India and the UK will discuss strengthening their defense and security ties, including regular military exchanges and collaboration on critical technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. PM Modi is likely to raise the issue of Khalistani extremists in the UK, who have been a concern for India. The UK government has assured India that it will take necessary actions to address this issue. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the issue of Khalistani extremists and related groups is a matter of concern for India, and it has been brought to the attention of partners in the United Kingdom. Discussions have also taken place between India and the UK regarding the extradition of fugitives to India, Misri said.Foreign Secretary Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. We will continue to do so. This is a matter of concern not only to us but should be a matter of concern to our partners as well because this impacts social cohesion and social order in these other countries as well." Answering a media query on the issue of fugitives in the UK, Misri said that there is a legal process to such requests regarding fugitives related to Indian law and India is working "very closely" with the UK on this issue. "There have been a few questions fugitives related to Indian law and Indian justice, in the UK. These have been a matter of discussion between both sides and we have continued to make the case for these fugitives to be rendered to India. There is a legal process that such requests , issues go through in the other country, and we continue to follow very closely with our partners in the UK on these matters," he said. The two countries will also review progress in areas like climate action, healthcare, education, and people-to-people connections.With an Indian diaspora that forms about 2.7 per cent of the total population of UK, it acts as the living bridge which forms a key pillar of growth and development of India -UK relations through their valuable contribution to the British society and economy as well as promoting bilateral cultural and economic cooperation and bonds of friendship between peoples of our two countries.After the UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25-26. In a significant development, the Supreme Court has upheld the Allahabad High Court's guidelines regarding complaints/FIRs filed under the Domestic Violence Law (IPC 498A), which direct that accused persons should not be arrested for two months after the complaint is registered. The Supreme Court stated that the guidelines set by the Allahabad High Court will remain effective, and the concerned departments must adhere to them. The Allahabad High Court, in its 2022 judgment, issued these guidelines to curb the increasing trend of misuse of Section 498A, where the husband and his entire family are falsely implicated. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The key instruction in the High Courts guidelines was that during a two-month cooling-off period after the FIR or complaint is registered, no arrest or police action will be taken against the accused. During this period, the matter will be immediately referred to the Family Welfare Committee in each district. In another development, the Supreme Court has directed an IPS officer to tender an unconditional public apology to her former husband and in-laws for the "physical and mental agony" caused by several false criminal cases she filed against them during their marital dispute, according to an NDTV report. A bench of Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih ordered the quashing of all ongoing cases in the matter and dissolution of the marriage, as the couple had separated in 2018. The apex court also ruled that the daughter will stay with her mother, and the husband and family can visit her. In its verdict, the court noted that the husband spent 109 days and his father 103 days in jail due to criminal cases filed by the wife. The court held that the suffering they had to endure was irreparable and directed the officer to tender a public apology. "The woman and her parents shall tender an unconditional apology to her husband and his family members, which shall be published in the national edition of a well-known English and a Hindi newspaper," NDT reported, quoting the judges. The judges said that the apology must also be published and shared on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and other similar social media platforms within three days of the order. They clarified that this apology should not be seen as an admission of guilt and will not affect any legal rights, responsibilities, or consequences under the law. New Delhi: A bizarre case in Bengaluru is garnering social media attention after two Rolls-Royce cars were slapped with a hefty fine for failing to pay road tax in Karnatakas capital. In a fresh development, it has been revealed that these luxury cars were once owned by Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan and another actor However, the actors no longer own these vehicles. Big B's Old Rolls-Royce Cars Fined The two luxury cars Rolls Royce Phantom and Rolls Royce Ghost each registered in the names of Bollywood superstars Amitabh Bachchan and other actor, were fined Rs 38 lakh penalty for evading Karnatakas road tax. With Big B's model has been slapped with a fine of Rs 18.53 lakh, while other model faces a penalty of Rs 19.73 lakh, as per NDTV reports. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source What's The Surprising KGF Twist ? According to NDTV, both cars are owned by a local businessman-politician, Yusuf Sharif. Few years ago, He bought the ultra-luxury vehicles from the Bollywood actors, but didn't transfer them into his name. Rolls-Royce Phantom from Amitabh Bachchan and Rolls-Royce Ghost from another actor. The surprising KGF twist is Yusuf is popularly known as KGF Babua nickname tied to his roots in Kolar Gold Fields, the mining town that inspired the Yash starrer hit film KGF. before he moved into the real estate industry Yusuf was earlier into selling scrap. The Tax Controversy RTO officials have confirmed that the ownership of both ultra-luxury vehicles hasn't changed yet on paper. Two Rolls-Royce cars, previously linked to Amitabh Bachchan and another actor, have been fined in Bengaluru for road tax violations. Though flagged in 2021, they escaped penalty then as they hadn't completed a year in the city. Now, with both cars exceeding the one-year limit under transport rules, hefty fines have been imposed. Both cars are registered in Maharashtra. Yusuf Sharif And Family Assests Yusuf Sharif, a local businessman-politician declared assests belonging to him and his family worth over Rs 1744 crore who contested the 2021 Karnataka Legislative Council elections from the Bangalore Urban local authorities' constituency four years ago. Jaipur: Actor Ananya Panday visited Kale Hanuman Ji Mandir in Jaipur and treated fans with a glimpse of it. On Tuesday, the 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' actor posted some pictures where she can be seen offering prayers in the temple. Ananya looks gorgeous in a yellow suit with minimal makeup. "So much to be grateful for", she captioned the post. Ananya's aunt Deanne Panday showered love by dropping heart emojis in the comment section. Meanwhile, on the work front, Ananya Panday will be seen in her upcoming film, 'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' alongside Kartik Aaryan. The makers had shared the first look of Kartik and Ananya from the movie's set in Europe. The image showed the two actors holding passports and sharing a kiss near the sea, giving fans a glimpse of the film's romantic vibe. Veteran actor Jackie Shroff has also joined the cast of 'Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri.' The exciting news was shared by Kartik, who took to his Instagram account to confirm Shroff's entry as he shared a fun behind-the-scenes video. In the video, Kartik and Jackie can be seen enjoying a retro song together. Jackie, dressed in his usual style with sunglasses and a bandana, stood out with his cool look. Kartik captioned the post, "Lights, Camera and The OG 'Hero' #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri." 'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' will be released in theatres on February 13, 2026, coinciding with Valentine's Day. New Delhi: Renowned theatre artist Ratan Thiyam, recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, passed away at the age of 77 on Wednesday morning. He breathed his last at 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal. Thiyam was one of the pioneers behind the Theatre of Roots movement in Indian theatre, which began in the 1970s. Fondly known as Thiyam Nemai, he was celebrated for incorporating ancient Indian theatre traditions and forms into a contemporary context through his writings. Besides being a playwright and director, he was also a painter and dabbled in writing and music. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source RIP Ratan Thiyam: Condolences Pour In Tributes have poured in from across the country, with admirers and institutions paying respects to the theatre maestro. The Sahitya Akademi, through its official handle on X , wrote: Sad to know that a very distinguished playwright, director, writer, scholar, leading personality of the Theatre of Roots and founder of Chorus Repertory Theatre, Sri Ratan Thiyam has passed away. He was one of the few directors who popularized ancient Indian traditions and touched millions of hearts through his works. His plays have been staged as well as adapted across the world. He will be missed in Indian performance and literary circles. Sad to know that a very distinguished playwright, director, writer, scholar, leading personality of "Theatre of Roots" and founder of Chorus Repertory Theatre, Sri Ratan Thiyam has passed away. He was one of the few directors who popularized ancient Indian traditions & touched pic.twitter.com/3syQ7izowJ Sahitya Akademi (@sahityaakademi) July 23, 2025 All India Radio (AIR) also extended condolences on X: Globally acclaimed theatre personality Ratan Thiyam has passed away. He is known for his direction in internationally acclaimed dramas like Chakravyuha, Uttar Priyadarshi, Hey Nungshibi Prithivi, and Chinglon Mapan Tampak Ama. Globally acclaimed Theatre personality Ratan Thiyam has passes away. Ratan Thiyam is known for his direction in the internally acclaimed dramas like "Chakrabvyuha", "Uttar Priyadarshi", "Hey Nungshibi Prithivi", "Chinglon Mapan Tampak ama". He was honoured with Fringe First pic.twitter.com/8aKPtWT5t1 All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) July 23, 2025 He was honoured with the Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh International Festival in 1987 for his play Chakravyuha. Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Kongkal Sangma, expressed his grief: Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a visionary who redefined Indian theatre by blending contemporary form with the cultural soul of Manipur. Through his art, he not only elevated the cultural identity of his homeland but left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian performing arts. Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam , a visionary who redefined Indian theatre by blending contemporary form with the cultural soul of Manipur. Through his art, he not only elevated the cultural identity of his homeland but left an indelible mark on the landscape pic.twitter.com/EJKFuRWquo Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) July 23, 2025 Heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who admired his art. May he rest in peace. Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma, also paid tribute, calling him: A leading light of the Theatre of Roots movement. He added: Shri Ratan Thiyam dedicated his life to bringing indigenous theatre and art practices to the global stage. A Padma awardee, his productions were rich in both talent and messaging. He was a brilliant ambassador of the rich culture of Manipur and the Northeast and was able to use art as a vehicle to convey peoples emotions and aspirations. A leading light of the Theatre for Roots movement, Shri Ratan Thiyam dedicated his life to bring indigenous theatre and art practices to the global stage. A Padma awardee , his productions were rich in both talent and messaging. He was a brilliant ambassador of the rich culture pic.twitter.com/9qTOhs2NP6 Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 23, 2025 My deepest condolences on his demise. Former Chief Minister of Manipur, Biren Singh offered his heartfelt condolences: It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world of theatre but also our very identity. His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty. It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world pic.twitter.com/20ZbKwGdZL N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 23, 2025 May his soul rest in peace and his spirit continue to live on in the works he leaves behind and in the countless lives he inspired. The Sangeet Natak Akademi also issued a statement: Sangeet Natak Akademi mourns the passing of Ratan Thiyam legendary playwright, theatre director, and Akademi Fellow. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his legacy live on. Sangeet Natak Akademi mourns the passing of Ratan Thiyam legendary playwright, theatre director, and Akademi Fellow. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his legacy live on.#SangeetNatakAkademi #Theatre #Culture #RatanThiyam pic.twitter.com/JArw9R7QXx Sangeet Natak Akademi (@sangeetnatak) July 23, 2025 Ratan Thiyams Prolific Legacy Ratan Thiyam served as the Chairperson of the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) from 2013 to 2017. Prior to this, he was Vice-Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. In 1976, he founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre on the outskirts of Imphal, Manipur. His accolades include: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction (1987) Padma Shri (1989) Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2012) Several national and international honours for his outstanding contributions to theatre Ratan Thiyams legacy will continue to shape and inspire generations of artists and theatre lovers across the world. New Delhi: Public Sector lender Punjab National Bank (PNB) has urges the bank's customers to update KYC by 8 August 2025. Failure to update KYC details within the stipulated time may result in restrictions on account operations. The bank said that the KYC update is applicable only for those customers whose accounts have become due for KYC updation as of 30 June 2025. "In adherence to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, Punjab National Bank (PNB), Indias leading public sector bank, urges its customers to update their Know Your Customer (KYC) information by 08.08.2025 to ensure smooth functioning of their accounts." Add Zee News as a Preferred Source As part of the KYC compliance exercise, PNB has requested its customers to provide their updated information like identity proof, address proof, recent photo, PAN/Form 60, income proof, mobile number (if not available) or any other KYC information at any branch. It can also be done through PNB ONE/Internet Banking Services (IBS) or registered e-mail/post to their base branch by 08.08.2025. PNB has said that customers can visit their nearest PNB branch or check the official website https://www.pnbindia.in/. The bank has also cautioned its customers to not click/download any link/file received from any unverified sources to update your KYC. Lucknow: In a landmark Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at Lok Bhawan, the Uttar Pradesh government approved several key proposals aimed at boosting women empowerment, youth digital access, infrastructure, and education. The session cleared a total of 37 proposals and announced the commencement of the Vidhan Sabhas Monsoon Session from August 11. One of the most significant decisions made was the expansion of the stamp duty exemption for women property buyers. Previously limited to properties worth Rs 10 lakh, this exemption has now been extended to properties valued up to Rs 1 crore, offering a 1 per cent reduction in stamp duty. This can translate into savings of up to Rs 1 lakh per property registration in the name of women. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source State Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar said that this move targets middle-class women, helping them become property owners, boosting their confidence, financial independence, and social respect. The policy complements the Mission Shakti initiative and aligns with the Union Governments recent proposal to reduce stamp duty on property deeds, favouring women. In an effort to enhance digital empowerment among the youth, the Cabinet approved distributing feature-rich tablets under the Swami Vivekananda Youth Sashaktikaran Yojana. The tablets, superior to smartphones in screen size, battery life, and multitasking capabilities, will support education, skill development, and job preparedness. The five-year scheme has a budget allocation of Rs 2,000 crore for the financial year 2025-26 and will be fully funded by the state government without any financial burden on the Centre. The government also sanctioned the construction of the Chitrakoot Link Expressway, a Rs 939.67 crore infrastructure project to be executed via the EPC model. The 15.172-kilometre, initially four-lane expressway will connect Bharatkoop in Chitrakoot to Ahmadganj village, linking the Varanasi-Banda National Highway and NH 135 BG. This expressway is expected to improve regional connectivity and boost tourism in Chitrakoot by providing faster, smoother travel for pilgrims and visitors. The project includes a five-year maintenance period post-construction and is anticipated to generate around 38 lakh man-days of employment. To align technical education with industry standards, the Cabinet approved a Rs 6,935.86 crore project in partnership with Tata Technologies Limited (TTL) to upgrade 121 government polytechnic institutes. TTL will invest Rs 6,034.20 crore, while the state government will contribute Rs 1,063.96 crore plus an additional Rs 858.11 crore for infrastructure and facilities. The initiative will establish Tata Technology Excellence Centres to enhance diploma-level education and skill development. The first phase will focus on upgrading 45 polytechnic institutes as a pilot project. The Cabinet announced that the Monsoon Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature will begin on August 11. This session will comply with constitutional mandates requiring a maximum six-month gap between sessions. The government plans to present bills to replace ordinances issued after the last session and conduct other vital legislative business. Monojit Mishra, one of the accused in the Kolkata law student gang-rape case, made around 16 calls in three hours after the crime. The details of the calls are currently being investigated by the officials. The victim was allegedly raped on the premisis of the college on the evening of June 25 and since then four individuals have been arrested. The two companies signed the agreement after Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the CEO Forum in Moscow, during his two-day bilateral visit to the country for the 16th Annual Summit. New Delhi: India's mobile phone exports have surged 127 times over the past decade, rising from Rs 1,500 crore to Rs 2 lakh crore, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Jitin Prasada, informed the Lok Sabha in a written reply on Wednesday. The minister attributed this unprecedented growth in mobile manufacturing to the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Over the last ten years, mobile production in India has witnessed a 28-fold increase, growing from 18,000 crore to 5.45 lakh crore. Under the aegis of the National Policy on Electronics (NPE) 2019, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had notified the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing (LSEM) and the PLI Scheme for IT Hardware. "The PLI Scheme for Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing has significantly impacted the mobile manufacturing sector in India, particularly in transforming the country from a net importer to a net exporter of mobile phones. Bharat is now the second-largest mobile manufacturing country in the world," the minister stated in his written reply. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source As of June 2025, the PLI Scheme for Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing has attracted a cumulative investment of 12,390 crore, led to a cumulative production of 8,44,752 crore, exports worth 4,65,809 crore, and created 1,30,330 direct jobs. Meanwhile, the PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware has attracted a cumulative investment of 717.13 crore, resulted in cumulative production worth 12,195.84 crore, and generated 5,056 direct jobs as of June 2025. Total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the electronics manufacturing sector over the last five years (since 202021) stands at USD 4,071 million, of which USD 2,802 million has been contributed by MeitY PLI beneficiaries. As part of its 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India' initiatives, the government launched PLI schemes across several sectors in 2020 to make Indian manufacturers globally competitive, attract investments, boost exports, integrate India into the global supply chain, and reduce import dependency. Cybercrime Cases In India: Cybercrime in India has seen a steep rise of over 140 per cent in the past five years, with cases more than doubling between 2018 and 2022, the Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday. According to the latest report published by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the number of cybercrime cases registered in 2018 was 27,248. This figure rose sharply to 65,893 in 2022, Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar said in response to a question in the Lok Sabha. These crimes include offences carried out using communication devices such as mobile phones, computers, and internet networks. However, the NCRB clarified that specific data related to complaints lodged by elderly citizens is not maintained separately. The Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that Police and Public Order fall under the responsibility of State Governments as per the Constitution. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Therefore, the prevention and investigation of cyber crimes lie primarily with the States and Union Territories. However, the Central Government supports their efforts through advisories and funding under different schemes aimed at enhancing the capacity of local law enforcement agencies. To strengthen Indias response to cybercrime, the Central Government has taken several steps. These include setting up the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), launching the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in), and starting the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) in 2021. According to the Ministry, over Rs 5,489 crore has been saved through timely intervention in more than 17.82 lakh financial fraud complaints reported under CFCFRMS. To further help citizens, a 24x7 helpline number 1930 has also been operationalised. In addition, the government has blocked more than 9.42 lakh SIM cards and over 2.6 lakh mobile IMEIs involved in cybercrimes. Awareness campaigns have also been a major part of the governments strategy, the Minister of State explained. From caller tunes in multiple languages warning against digital scams to ads in Metros, newspapers, and cinema halls, various channels have been used to educate the public. Even the Prime Minister spoke about the dangers of digital arrests in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on October 27, 2024, MoS Kumar stated. The Government has also involved social media influencers, Prasar Bharati, and events like Raahgiri and IPL to spread awareness. Campaigns have reached schools, railway stations, and even religious events like Kumbh Mela 2025. Pakistan's latest test of its nuclear-capable Shaheen-III ballistic missile on Tuesday, July 22, went allegedly awry, with the missile falling short of its target and its wreckage landing perilously near a nuclear site in Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab province. The accident, in which wreckage fell close to civilian habitations in Dera Bugti district, Balochistan, has raised high level questions over Pakistan's military competence and sparked safety concerns among locals. After the failed test, the Pakistani military is said to have imposed a drastic internet blackout in the hit areas, barred media access, and commanded citizens to stay indoors. The Failed Test: What Went Wrong? Add Zee News as a Preferred Source On 22nd July, Pakistan carried out a test firing of the Shaheen-III missile from the Rakhshani region of Dera Ghazi Khan. But the missile is said to have gone off track, crashing in the Matt region of Dera Bugti district, Balochistan. The impact point was startlingly close to human habitations, only 500 meters away. Missile wreckage fell in the Grapevine Ravine at the Loop Seharani Levy Station, causing a massive explosion. Pakistani Punjabi Army carried out a failed test of Shaheen-III ballistic missile in Republic of Balochistan on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. Locals reported that the missile was fired from Balochistans territory of Dera Ghazi Khan which landed dangerously close to civilian settlement pic.twitter.com/VF4o15pa77 Baba Banaras (@RealBababanaras) July 23, 2025 The explosion was so intense that its noise was said to have been heard 20-50 kilometers away, resonating in sections of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Social media was filled with panic videos of people running in fear. While some alleged that the missile struck the Dera Ghazi Khan nuclear plant, others believed it could be a strike by an enemy drone. The Pakistani military's initial reaction was to cut off internet services, limit media, and instruct residents to remain indoors. Mazhar Shirani, a representative of the DG Khan Commissioner, tried to put the incident down, implying that it was possibly a sonic boom created by a fighter jet, subject to investigation. Shaheen-III: Pakistan's Nuclear Deterrent The Shaheen-III is Pakistan's most powerful missile. It is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 2,750 kilometers, theoretically able to reach key Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Pakistan sees it as an essential component of its defense strategy, especially as a countermeasure against India's military might. Yet, a series of successive test failures is increasingly raising questions over its operational readiness. Dera Ghazi Khan: A Critical Nuclear Hub Dera Ghazi Khan is also the site of Pakistan's largest nuclear complex, a critical facility for uranium storage and processing. In the early 1970s, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) built a pilot plant here with the capability to process 10,000 pounds of uranium per day. This is the most important part of the nuclear weapons program of Pakistan. If the missile did actually hit this complex, the results could have been disastrous, although authorities insist that no damage was done. A History Of Failures This is not a one-off. Pakistan has a disturbing history of failed missile tests: October 2023 (Dera Ghazi Khan) : A earlier Shaheen-III test was also reportedly unsuccessful, resulting in an explosion close to Dera Ghazi Khan, heard 30-50 km away. Reports of a nuclear facility being hit were waved off as a sonic boom by the government. : A earlier Shaheen-III test was also reportedly unsuccessful, resulting in an explosion close to Dera Ghazi Khan, heard 30-50 km away. Reports of a nuclear facility being hit were waved off as a sonic boom by the government. January 2021 (Dera Bugti): A Shaheen-III test went awry, with the missile hitting a residential area of Dera Bugti, demolishing houses and injuring residents. The Baloch Republican Party denounced it as proof of Balochistan serving as a Pakistani military testing ground. A Shaheen-III test went awry, with the missile hitting a residential area of Dera Bugti, demolishing houses and injuring residents. The Baloch Republican Party denounced it as proof of Balochistan serving as a Pakistani military testing ground. 2020 (Babur-II Missile) : A Babur-II missile, which can be launched from land and sea, crashed in Balochistan during a test. : A Babur-II missile, which can be launched from land and sea, crashed in Balochistan during a test. 2022 (Jamshoro): A mysterious missile fell in Jamshoro, Sindh province, with some assuming that it was a failed attempt to retaliate against India's BrahMos accident. These successive failures highlight ongoing technical issues with Pakistan's missile technology. Balochistan's Mounting Protest Groups such as the "Republic of Balochistan" and locals have vigorously protested against the recent test. They claim that: Balochistan as a Testing Ground: The Pakistani military regularly carries out missile and nuclear tests in Balochistan, putting its people at risk. They cite the 1998 nuclear tests at Chagai, where they say even now there is rampant cancer and skin diseases. Forced Eviction: Baloch people are regularly forced to vacate their homes prior to tests, as is habitual in places such as Dera Bugti and Kahan, purportedly to enable resource extraction (gas, minerals). Lack of Safety: Civilians are not notified in advance about missile tests, and their lives are put in grave danger. Sher Mohammad Bugti, spokesman for the Baloch Republican Party, said Pakistan has used Balochistan as its "weapons laboratory," calling on the United Nations and human rights groups to probe. Pakistan's Nuclear Ambitions Pakistan is one of the nine nuclear-armed nations, with a total of 170 warheads in 2025 and possibly up to 200 by 2026. Pakistan's doctrine of "minimum credible deterrence" suggests an implicit first-use strategy towards neighboring countries like India. The Shaheen series with ranges between 1,250 to 2,750 km, with the Shaheen-III developed to neutralize India's Agni-III, are pivotal to this doctrine. Pakistan's missile and nuclear programs are popularly assumed to be designed with extensive Chinese support. The 1970-established Dera Ghazi Khan plant produces as much as an estimated 360 grams of plutonium per year, which is weapons-grade. It is an essential element of its nuclear program. International Ramifications and Unanswered Questions India has kept official mum over the incident, but the incident follows increased India-Pakistan tensions in the wake of India's "Operation Sindoor" in May 2025, a retaliatory action against Pakistani airbases over the Pahalgam terror attack. The Dera Ghazi Khan incident has generated internal debate in India, with some interpreting it as an indication of Pakistan military vulnerabilities. Concerns from the United States are also notable. A U.S. nuclear sniffer aircraft was reportedly observed near Dera Ghazi Khan after the October 2023 blast, fueling speculation of a nuclear mishap. While the U.S. remains officially quiet, it closely monitors Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Baloch organizations have appealed to the UN and UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Pakistan's missile and nuclear programs. Pakistani authorities have rejected any terror strike, and the DG Khan Commissioner has said the blast was probably a sonic boom and reported no damage or casualties. But so many questions to be answered: If a sonic boom, then how did missile wreckage reach Dera Bugti? Why did the army impose an internet and media embargo? Was the nuclear plant really not damaged? The Pakistan Interior Ministry remains silent so far. For India, successive failures of Pakistani missile tests may mean diminished military credibility. Yet, an accident involving a nuclear facility such as Dera Ghazi Khan would be a critical threat that would transcend boundaries. In addition, increasing Baloch anger against Pakistan, possibly catalyzed by such an incident, may destabilize a border region near the India-Pakistan frontier, affecting bilateral relations. New Delhi: As India continues to explore a bilateral trade agreement with the United States, a prominent think tank has raised red flags about the direction of negotiations. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has warned Indian policymakers not to fall into the same pattern as Indonesia, which recently signed what GTRI calls a one-sided trade pact with Washington. In a report released on Wednesday, the GTRI described the US-Indonesia agreement as heavily skewed in favour of American interests. The group pointed to aggressive pressure tactics by the United States, warning that similar dynamics could play out in Indias case unless approached with caution and long-term planning. The US-Indonesia trade deal offers a clear example of how intense U.S. pressure can lead to unbalanced outcomes, the report said, stressing the importance of measured and reciprocal agreements for developing economies like India. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source What Indonesia Agreed To The recently signed trade pact requires Indonesia to eliminate 99% of its tariffs on U.S. goods, opening its markets to a wide range of U.S. products from industrial and tech to agricultural commodities. The United States, in contrast, will impose a 19% tariff on Indonesian exports, down from an initially proposed 40%, but still a significant barrier. According to the GTRI, Indonesia has committed to buying $22.7 billion worth of American goods. That includes $15 billion in energy imports such as liquefied petroleum gas, crude oil and petrol; $4.5 billion in agricultural products like soybeans, wheat and cotton; and $3.2 billion allocated for Boeing aircraft. The report further states that Indonesia agreed to dismantle local content rules, which previously required foreign companies to source components locally. With those protections removed, small and medium-sized Indonesian businesses could lose out on demand from larger firms now able to directly source from abroad. Another key concern is that there are no requirements compelling U.S. companies to disclose whether their supplies come from countries like China, raising questions about transparency and economic security. Vehicle Standards, Digital Rules and Remanufactured Goods The agreement also compels Indonesia to accept American automotive safety and emissions standards. This allows U.S. carmakers to export directly into the Indonesian market without alterations. However, Indonesian auto firms will still have to comply with U.S. rules to sell in America. In addition, Jakarta has agreed to lift restrictions on remanufactured goods, which the GTRI fears could lead to an influx of cheap and second-hand machinery. That, they say, could harm local engineering and capital goods industries unable to compete with lower-cost refurbished imports. Why India Should Pay Attention According to the GTRI, the United States is looking to replicate aspects of this deal in its negotiations with India. Some of the proposals on the table include opening Indias agriculture and dairy sectors, allowing genetically modified animal feed and relaxing digital trade and product standards in line with U.S. preferences. These are not minor adjustments, they would reshape how India manages food safety, digital privacy and local industry, the think tank warned. U.S. President Donald Trump, who reinstated a reciprocal tariff policy in his second term, has been vocal about ensuring America gets a fair deal in trade partnerships. His administration imposed a 10% baseline tariff from April to July, following a 90-day suspension meant to give countries like India time to negotiate. He has also made clear that the United States will match any tariff imposed by another country, including India, in the name of fair trade. A key tariff deadline for India is set for August 1. High-Level Talks Underway Amid these developments, a senior delegation from Indias Commerce and Industry Ministry has traveled to Washington, D.C. to continue working on a potential bilateral trade agreement. With Trumps deadline fast approaching, talks have gained urgency. The GTRI emphasised that India must ensure any final deal undergoes transparent cost-benefit analysis, especially in sensitive areas like health, food safety and intellectual property. India should only agree to terms that are fair and reciprocal. Concessions that favour short-term wins at the cost of long-term economic control could become liabilities down the line, the report concluded. Luton (United Kingdom): Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in London early Wednesday morning for a packed two-day diplomatic visit. Lasting from July 23 to July 24, the trip marks the first leg of his two-nation journey. He touched down ahead of major meetings centered on strengthening ties between India and the United Kingdom, including finalising a Free Trade Agreement. Modi described the India-UK bond as a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He highlighted close cooperation in trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people connections. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source A key highlight of the visit involves discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The talks aim to expand economic ties, boost job creation and deepen mutual prosperity. A formal call with King Charles III also features on the itinerary. Landed in London. This visit will go a long way in advancing the economic partnership between our nations. The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress. pic.twitter.com/HWoXAE9dyp Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 23, 2025 This marks Modis fourth official visit to the United Kingdom. He visited previously in 2015 and 2018, and returned in 2021 for the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow. In less than a year, the two leaders met twice at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year and again in June at the G7 in Kananaskis, Canada. Since 2021, they have elevated their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Their shared agenda includes regular high-level exchanges and a mutual commitment to raise bilateral trade to USD 120 billion by 2030 through tariff cuts. Modis journey continues with a second stop in the Maldives. British-Indian Community Lights Up London with Enthusiasm Londons Indian diaspora welcomed Modi with energy and anticipation. Born and raised in the United Kingdom to Maharashtrian parents, Anagha shared her joy, I have been hearing all the positive words about PM Modi from my grandparents and my extended family I am very excited to see him India is at the forefront globally. #WATCH | London, UK | After meeting PM Modi, member of the Indian diaspora, Gehna Gautam, says, "... I just met the PM. He walked past us. It was a surreal moment. I got to shake my hand. He is so dynamic... It was an amazing experience. The enthusiasm and energy of the people pic.twitter.com/yQOKprEcdP ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Expressing her excitement, Bharat quiz champion Gayatri Lokhande said, This would be my second time. I have come here as the winner of the Bharat ko Janiye quiz We are looking forward to the trade agreement to be signed with PM Keir Starmer. #WATCH | UK | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets the members of the Indian Diaspora in Luton (Source: ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/LxUdzLXwSJ ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Ramchandra Shastri attended the gathering of Indian diaspora that welcome PM Modi with his whole family. He is a revolutionary person He understands all the scriptures like Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads and talks about the welfare of all people, he said. A member of the Dawoodi Bohra community added, As Dawoodi Bohras, we are very proud of the relationship that the prime minister has with our community we welcome him to the UK. #WATCH | London, UK | After meeting PM Modi, member of the Indian diaspora, Shreya Pareek, says, "...I came here to meet PM Modi. I am glad that I got that opportunity... I want to congratulate him for Operation Sindoor and all the other things he is doing for India..." pic.twitter.com/LIJNoaEs26 ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Another Bohra community member said, This is my first time personally meeting PM Modi. He is a great friend to the Dawoodi Bohra community we hope that one day he will visit us at our mosque in the UK as well. Preena, speaking on behalf of her family, described her excitement, He has done so much for Indias progress He made India a Vishwaguru. He made India very powerful on the world stage. Assams Bihu Dance to Grace Arrival A group of Assamese performers added festive colour to the scene. Lead dancer Madhusmita Borgohain, living in the United Kingdom for 12 years, said, I cannot express how happy I am to see PM Modi today. Today, we will perform Bihu dance. #WATCH | London, UK | After meeting PM Modi, member of the Indian diaspora, Shivani, says, "...We shook hands twice and he also blessed me on my head... It is my pleasure to meet him. We are very blessed to have him over here. We are really very happy today..." pic.twitter.com/lw5KiisG8l ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 Chinu Kishore, another member and UK resident for 22 years, echoed her feelings, I am very excited to see PM Modi in person today and perform Assams Bihu dance form. #WATCH | London, UK | After meeting PM Modi, member of the Indian diaspora, Bhavya, says, "...The Prime Minister shook my hand and gave me 'Ashirwad'. It was the best feeling ever..." pic.twitter.com/eUyjakg77a ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2025 This visit blends diplomatic purpose with cultural sparkle, personal connections and a clear economic agenda. Modest beginnings. Ambitious goals. The spotlight now shifts to the moment Modi and Starmer meet and to the upcoming trade agreement signing that could define a new chapter in India-UK relations. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to the United Kingdom on July 23 for a highly anticipated diplomatic visit, where trade, security and strategic cooperation are expected to dominate the agenda. With the long-negotiated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries now entering its final legal stages, officials from both sides are making last-minute preparations for its formal signing on July 24. Speaking to the media, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that legal checks and final details were being completed. We are working on legal scrubbing and other last-minute work that needs to be done, he said. The deal, which has been under negotiation for several years, marks a significant step forward in the India-UK economic relationship. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source The FTA is being described as modern, comprehensive and historic in scope. According to Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada, negotiations officially concluded on May 6, 2025. He said the agreement promises major export gains for India, particularly in labour-intensive industries such as textiles, leather goods, gems and jewellery, marine products, toys and sporting goods. It also holds potential for sectors like auto parts, engineering goods and organic chemicals. The United Kingdom remains Indias sixth-largest investor, with cumulative investment of around $36 billion. On the other hand, India has emerged as a major investor in the United Kingdom as well, with nearly $20 billion invested across various sectors. The trade agreement is expected to unlock significant new opportunities for both economies, deepen business ties and contribute to growth and employment. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to meet King Charles III. This formal call is expected to emphasise the growing warmth in bilateral relations. The visit will include engagements with business leaders from both countries, further highlighting the economic focus of the trip. Foreign Secretary Misri confirmed this, adding that the prime minister will participate in business-related interactions during his stay in the United Kingdom. In addition to trade, India is expected to raise several critical security concerns. One of the most pressing is the issue of Khalistani extremism operating from British soil. According to Misri, India has repeatedly raised this concern with U.K. authorities and believes that the presence and activities of these groups should be treated seriously by its international partners. The presence of Khalistani extremists we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. This should be a matter of concern for our partners as well, he said. The issue of fugitive extradition will also be discussed. Misri mentioned ongoing discussions related to individuals wanted by Indian law enforcement. India continues to press for the extradition of such fugitives, stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation on justice-related matters. Misri explained that these cases are going through legal processes in the United Kingdom and that India is closely following each case through diplomatic and legal channels. In June, Prime Minister Modi shared a social media post celebrating the successful conclusion of the FTA along with a Double Contribution Convention. Delighted to speak with my friend PM Keir Starmer. In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will further deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and catalyse trade, investment, growth, job creation, and innovation in both our economies, he had posted on X. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed similar sentiments. He stated that the trade deal would contribute to building a stronger and more secure economy, in line with his governments broader plan to expand global trade ties and strengthen key alliances. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy added his voice to the celebrations, describing the agreement as just the beginning of what could become an even deeper trading partnership. In May, he said that the agreement would supercharge the existing 43 billion pound trade relationship between the two countries. As Modis aircraft prepares for take-off, the trip is being seen as more than a ceremonial visit. It is a moment of high diplomacy, economic optimism and geopolitical clarity. Trade documents may be signed, but the broader message is one of long-term partnership, one that spans commerce, law and shared concerns. With cameras ready and documents nearly finalised, all eyes now turn to London. A historic handshake awaits. London: London buzzed with anticipation as members of the Indian diaspora gathered to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Enthusiasm met him at every turn. They spoke with warmth. Gehna Gautam recalled the moment. I just met the PM. He walked past us. It was a surreal moment. I got to shake his hand. He is so dynamic. It was an amazing experience. The enthusiasm and energy of the people around here is on another level, she said. Sanjay shared a similar excitement. I am very happy to meet PM Modi. He has come here for a very important job. We wish him and Bharat good luck. He is doing a great job, he said. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Bhavya called it unforgettable. The prime minister shook my hand and gave me Ashirwad (blessing). It was the best feeling ever, she said. Shivani felt truly blessed, We shook hands twice and he also blessed me on my head. It is my pleasure to meet him. We are very blessed to have him over here. We are really very happy today. From the Dawoodi Bohra community, voices expressed pride too. As Dawoodi Bohras, we are very proud of the relationship that the prime minister has with our community. He has been a friend of our community for many years. And as a proud Dawoodi Bohra and as a British citizen, we welcome him to the United Kingdom and look forward to meeting him. Another Bohra added, I am very excited. This is my first time personally meeting PM Modi. He is a great friend to the Dawoodi Bohra community. It will always be a pleasure to meet him. We welcome him and we hope that one day he will visit us at our mosque in the UK as well. Preena, a diaspora leader, said, I am so excited to see PM Modi. My family and I are huge fans of PM Modi. He has done so much for Indias progress. He made India a Vishwaguru. He made India very powerful on the world stage. Modi landed in London for a two-day visit beginning Wednesday. His agenda includes talks toward a Free Trade Agreement. In a departure statement, he said that India and the United Kingdom share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He listed the scope trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties. Modi will meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and also pay respects to King Charles III. The aim is to spur economic growth, create jobs and raise trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. This marks Modis fourth voyage to the United Kingdom since 2015. His previous visits came in 2015, 2018 and 2021 for COP26 in Glasgow. He and Starmer met twice recently at the G20 in Rio and the G7 in Kananaskis. India-UK ties saw an upgrade in 2021 when they adopted Comprehensive Strategic Partnership status. High-level visits followed. Both nations signaled firm commitments to deepen cooperation. Next on Modis journey is Maldives. Four days ago, Mossad Chief David Barnea visited Washington D.C., where he held a high-level meeting with Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy to the Middle East. According to sources, during the meeting, Barnea presented a PowerPoint proposal outlining a controversial plan to relocate Palestinian civilians from Gaza to third countries. The proposed host nations included Ethiopia, Libya, and Indonesia, with Israel reportedly offering financial assistance to these countries in exchange for accepting displaced Palestinians. While the U.S. response to the proposal has not been made public yet, acceptance of the plan would be a significant strategic win for Israel. Reducing the Palestinian population in Gaza would, from Israels perspective, diminish the chances of Hamas regrouping, thereby enhancing long-term security. In today's DNA, Rahul Sinha, Managing Editor, of Zee News, analysed the details of Mossad's plan. Watch Full DNA Episode Here Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Mossads Daring Operations Inside Iran In a parallel development, Mossad revealed new information to the media about its covert operations inside Iran during the Israel-Iran conflict from June 13 to June 19. These operations, according to Israeli intelligence reports, unfolded like a high-stakes spy thriller. The operations began as Mossad identified and eliminated top Iranian military commanders, targeting the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which was allegedly planning attacks on Israeli and American interests in the Middle East. Mossad's first major target was IRGC Commander Hussein Salami. Barneas agency had already turned one of Salamis close associates into a Mossad agent a year earlier. This agent fed Salami disinformation that an Israeli airstrike was imminent on his residence. The agent then directed Salami to a supposed safehouse, which was subsequently hit by an Israeli missile, killing him. Understanding that weakening the IRGC leadership would demoralize the Iranian military, Mossad proceeded with a second missionthis time targeting another IRGC General, Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Mossad allegedly used deepfake voice technology to mimic a senior Iranian leader and lured Hajizadeh to a small military base outside Tehran for a meeting. Once he and his officers arrived, the Israeli Air Force launched a missile strike, eliminating the group. Mossad's goal during the missile exchanges between Israel and Iran was to cripple Iranian intelligence and military morale, preventing any substantial retaliatory operations. The third key figure eliminated was Ali Shadmani, who had taken charge of Irans war council following Salamis death. In Shadmanis case, Mossad utilized cutting-edge AI and surveillance technology. Mossads elite Unit 8200 built a physical and behavioral model of Shadmani using his DNA samples, while their tech unit hacked Tehrans CCTV systems to pinpoint his exact location. Shadmani was eventually taken out by a drone strike, precisely executed based on live surveillance data. Aftermath and Continuing Fear in Iran Even though over a month has passed since the ceasefire, the impact of Mossads operations continues to reverberate. Iranian authorities are still conducting arrests and crackdowns on suspected Mossad agents, signaling deep infiltration. Iranian officials reportedly believe that Mossad has established influence across every layer of Irans intelligence and military apparatus. New Delhi: It is not a magic, but it might look like it. Nigerias economy just expanded by nearly a third on paper. The sudden growth did not come from a surge in exports or an oil windfall. It came from a long-overdue recalculation of how the country measures its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). After more than a decade, Nigerias National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has finally updated the base year it uses for its GDP figures, moving it from 2010 to 2019. The result? The official size of Nigerias economy has jumped by around 30%, from $187.76 billion to $244 billion. That change has pushed the countrys GDP to 372.82 trillion in local currency (naira). This recalibration is not a local event. It is significant for a continent where economic data is often outdated or incomplete. In Africas economic rankings, the shift places Nigeria as the fourth-largest economy, behind South Africa, Egypt and Algeria. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source So What Changed? What prompted this major statistical shift? In simple terms, Nigeria updated its economic model to reflect changes in its economy over the past decade. The old base year did not account for entire sectors that now drive modern life, which has digital services, pensions and the informal labour force that employs the majority of Nigerians. It is the most comprehensive rebasing we have ever done. We are now measuring digital activity, pension fund administration and informal work, which over 90% of our population is part of, said Adeyemi Adeniran, the head of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), during a press briefing in Abuja. Economist Michael Famoroti from Lagos-based Stears described the timing as necessary. The rebasing, according to him, offers a clearer image of how Nigerias economy has evolved. The structure is shifting. Agriculture still leads the pack in terms of output, and oil now contributes barely 5%, he said. Benefits and Cautions More than numbers, it is about perception. One of the biggest side effects of the rebasing is a healthier-looking debt-to-GDP ratio. Before the change, Nigerias public debt stood at 52% of the GDP. Now, it sits around 40%, right in line with the governments self-imposed threshold and below the 55% limit generally advised by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF). On paper, this is good news. But experts warn it could give a false sense of security. The improved ratio may make the government feel more comfortable taking on more debt. But the underlying issues have not disappeared. The debt is still there, Famoroti said. Currency Struggles, Economic Realities While the updated GDP figure is a statistical win, Nigerias currency tells a different story. Since President Bola Tinubu adjusted the exchange rate last year to attract investment and reflect market reality, the naira has lost over 70% of its value against the U.S. dollar. This devaluation cost Nigeria its title as Africas largest economy in 2023. While helpful, the rebasing has not been enough to reclaim the top spot. Senegal Eyes Similar Move Amid Debt Woes Nigeria is not alone in revisiting its economic metrics. Last week, Senegals finance ministry said it would also rebase its GDP for the first time since 2018. The announcement comes amid a financial scandal involving hidden debts that may exceed the countrys current economic size. Bank of America analysts highlighted that, just like Nigeria, a rebasing could help improve Senegals debt-to-GDP ratio and investor confidence provided the underlying economic performance stays strong. Since the announcement, Senegals dollar bonds have shown signs of recovery. Still, the IMF has paused a planned bailout as it waits for the results of an investigation into billions of dollars in misreported debt. How Recalculation Works, And Why It Matters Think of GDP rebasing like updating a scale. If you measured your height with a stick from 10 years ago, you would miss some growth. Nigeria simply swapped out its 2010 measuring stick for a more recent 2019 version. To explain this, let us use a local example. Imagine tomatoes cost 5 naira per kilo in 2010 and 20 naira in 2020. Using 2010 as the base year, prices appear to have jumped 4x. But if you base it on 2015, when tomatoes cost 8 naira, then the price increase is just 2.5x. The shift in perspective can dramatically change how economic growth looks on paper. That is exactly what Nigeria did. By changing the base year, it removed several tough years from the calculation, years when the economy was under pressure. Now, the revised GDP reflects newer and faster-growing sectors and shows an economy that is broader and more modern. Nigerias GDP rebasing gives the country a larger economy, stronger debt profile and a more accurate view of its current structure. But while the new numbers offer some relief, they do not erase the deeper challenges, ranging from currency instability to rising debt, that still demand careful attention. Amid Dhaka jet crash protests, Bangladesh Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan appealed to the protesting students for calm, saying that if the unrest continues, only the people and the country will suffer. You are the people of our country. An accident is an accident. We are trying to bring the situation fully under control. If unrest continues, no one else will be harmed, except for our country, the Dhaka Tribune reported, quoting the Air Chief. Air Chief Marshal Khan also urged people not to pay any heed to rumours and said that false information was being circulated on social media. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Please do not listen to any rumours on social media. A strong air force is essential for the sovereignty of the country... It is truly unfortunate that unrest is prevailing around the crash site. Many rumours are spreading. Do not listen to them, the Air Chief said. On Tuesday, massive protests took place at the site of the accident and outside the Secretariat building in the Bangladeshi capital, with students demanding the immediate resignation of the interim government's education adviser and education secretary. The protestors demanded publication of a correct list of the names of the deceased and those injured, along with the compensation details for the families of the victims. They also demanded an immediate discontinuation of the use of outdated and unsafe training aircraft used by the Bangladesh Air Force, reported Bangladeshs leading daily, the Daily Star. Bangladeshs Awami League has strongly condemned the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus for launching a harsh crackdown on anti-government protests that erupted following the recent tragic plane crash in Dhaka. According to local media reports, at least 75 students were injured during the police action and were subsequently treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Dhaka Jet Crash According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media division of the South Asian nation's Armed Forces, the Bangladesh Air Force's F-7 BGI training aircraft took off at 1:06 pm, local time on Monday and crashed into the Milestone School and College building in Dhaka's Uttara around 1.30 PM. The deceased majorly included students, authorities announced on Tuesday. At least 32 people have been killed, most of them reportedly children, and more than 165 others, including students, injured after a Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet crashed into the campus of Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka. (With IANS Inputs) New Delhi: Chenguang Gong, a Chinese engineer, was hired in January 2023 by an American research and development company as a circuit design manager. His role focused on infrared sensors its design, development and testing. He had full access to highly classified material. He worked in Los Angeles. From late March to late April, he began moving thousands of files. He used his work laptop for the same. He copied the data to three separate storage devices all personal. He did this quietly. No one noticed at first. But as it was revealed, he was fired. The files he took were not ordinary documents. They contained blueprints of missile tracking technology, nuclear launch detection systems and details about next-generation infrared sensors. These sensors locate ballistic and hypersonic threats from space. The technology helps fighter jets survive incoming missiles. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source Some of the stolen files turned up in a rented residence. Thousand Oaks, California. U.S. federal agents found them. They seized the devices, but the damage had already been done. The Justice Department confirmed the breach. They issued a statement, declared the accused, who lived in Santa Clara County, a felon. He confessed. He admitted taking trade secrets. These secrets had military value. Priceless knowledge. He now awaits sentencing. The engineer held dual citizenship of China and the United States. He worked in the defense sector for years. Between 2014 and 2022, he reached out to Chinese state-linked programmes. These were talent recruitment initiatives. Their goal was to bring cutting-edge knowledge to China and build power and capability. In 2014, Gong worked in Dallas. He contacted a high-tech institute in China and sent it a business proposal. It involved high-speed analog-to-digital converters. In 2020, he submitted another plan. It focused on night vision technology. He sent a video. That clip showed equipment his former U.S. employer had developed. Among the stolen files were designs for mechanical assemblies. These kept the sensors cold in space. The documents carried special markings Proprietary, Official Use Only and Export Controlled. Their value ran into hundreds of millions of dollars. Now, a federal judge, John F. Walter, holds his future. The sentencing is scheduled for September 29. Gong faces up to 10 years in prison. His bond is $1.75 million. The case continues. The fallout remains. The breach highlights an ongoing struggle, which is silent and unrelenting. Technology is the new battlefield. And trust remains fragile. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that the US and Japan have made the largest Deal ever, with Japan investing $550 billion in the US and America receiving 90% of the profits. We just completed a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 Billion Dollars into the United States, which will receive 90% of the Profits, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump said the deal includes reciprocal tariffs set at 15 percent on Japanese imports and requires Japan to open its markets to American products, including cars, trucks, rice, and certain agricultural goods. Add Zee News as a Preferred Source This Deal will create Hundreds of Thousands of Jobs There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their Country to Trade including Cars and Trucks, Rice and certain other Agricultural Products, and other things. Japan will pay Reciprocal Tariffs to the United States of 15%. This is a very exciting time for the United States of America, and especially for the fact that we will continue to always have a great relationship with the Country of Japan. Thank you for your attention to this matter! Trump added in the post. According to CNN, the agreement marks a breakthrough after months of stalled negotiations with key trading partners, as Trump's August 1 deadline for higher tariffs approached. The Japan deal was one of three major trade developments Trump announced that day. CNN noted that Japan is one of the US's most significant trading partners and the fifth-largest source of imports. Last year, Japan shipped $148 billion worth of goods to the US, including cars, car parts, and agricultural and construction machinery. Goods from Japan had faced a 24% reciprocal tariff before Trump initiated a 90-day pause in April. Since then, they have been subject to a minimum 10% tariff. Earlier this month, Trump warned in a letter to Prime Minister Ishiba that he could impose a 30% tariff starting August 1, CNN reported. In return, the US exported $80 billion worth of goods to Japan last year, including oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace products. While Japan is a close ally of the US, its top trading partner is China. CNN reported that the Trump administration had been urging its allies to reduce trade with China as a condition for securing trade deals with Washington. The agreement follows a 2019 expanded trade pact between the two countries that went into effect the following year, allowing more goods to be shipped duty-free. Japan also holds $1.1 trillion in US Treasury securities, making it the largest foreign creditor to the United States. (With ANI Inputs) On 22 July Spains Prime Ministerarrived in Paraguay on the final leg of his tour of the Southern Cone, which has also seen him visit Chile and Uruguay. End of preview - This article contains approximately 392 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 22 July the Venezuelan opposition campaign group Comando Con Venezuela denounced a revolving door of repression, saying that 20 activists had been arrested over the past 72 hours, shortly after the release of up to 80 political prisoners on 18 July. End of preview - This article contains approximately 396 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 22 July the international media reported that US authorities had arrested Haitian business magnate Pierre Reginald Boulos, who is also a US permanent resident, in Florida, for allegedly collaborating with Haitian gangs. End of preview - This article contains approximately 589 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Cuneiform Lives on in the Poetry of Assyrian Poet Dunya Mikhail MICHIGAN -- In her latest poetry collection "The Tablets: Secrets of the Clay", Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian poet Dunya Mikhail resurrects the world's earliest script--ancient Sumerian cuneiform--transforming it into a living, modern poetic form. Each of the book's ten sections consists of 24 short poems, blending text and visual art in ways that make ancient symbols feel startlingly contemporary. "In these tablets, I've practiced at least two layers of translation," Mikhail writes in a note accompanying the collection. "First, from Arabic to English. Second, from words to images. What I've received from my ancestors are offerings for the future--not the past. Now, it is my turn to pass them on to you." Born in Baghdad, Mikhail began her career in translation and journalism before emigrating to the United States in the 1990s. Over the past four decades, she has written extensively on Bethnahrin and Iraq, its history of conflict and loss, and her own experience of exile. Her poetry first appeared in Arabic in the mid-1980s. In 2005, New Directions published "The War Works Hard", translated by Elizabeth Winslow. The collection was shortlisted for the Griffin Poetry Prize and marked the first time a book by an Iraqi Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian poet was published in the U.S. Since then, Mikhail has published six additional books, often self-translated or written in both Arabic and English. These include the hybrid poetic memoir "Diary of a Wave Outside the Sea" (2009), which won the Arab American Book Award; the novel "The Bird Tattoo" (2022); and three more collections of poetry, the most recent being "The Tablets: Secrets of the Clay". Her first work of prose, "The Beekeeper" (2017), is a harrowing oral history of the Yazidi genocide in Iraq and Syria, told through phone calls with women who escaped captivity under the terrorist organization Islamic State. In recognition of her contributions, Mikhail received the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab Culture. She described the award as an honor that motivates her to offer her best work and helps bring her voice to wider audiences. UNESCO also adopted a line from her latest book-- "Let love be the new world order"--to feature on a commemorative poster, reaffirming the timeless relevance of ancient words in modern times. Customs authorities intercepted seven smuggling cases from July 12 to 17, involving vehicles and individuals attempting to transport undeclared items across borders. At the Border Gate, officers seized 44.7 kg of unquarantined meat and 12 bottles of Chinese liquor hidden in vehicles. Additionally, attempts to smuggle old electronics were uncovered: a woman concealed 90 electronic items and four old phones in her handbag, while men hid phones in pockets and around their waists. Seven suspects aged 23 to 67 from Macau, Hong Kong, and mainland China face charges under trade laws. Like this: Like Loading... The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) confirmed it handled 659 labor dispute cases from January to June 2025, with 57 involving Filipino migrant workers. Most complaints from Filipino workers so far this year concerned unpaid wages, overtime compensation, and mandatory holidays, the bureau said in a written reply to the Times. DSAL also stated that no cases related to unlicensed job agencies were reported during this same period. The Times inquiry follows a recent scandal in which over 50 Filipino jobseekers were allegedly lured into paying between MOP20,000 and MOP24,000 each for jobs at a Japanese restaurant, only to find themselves without proper work permits or wages. The Progressive Labor Union of Domestic Workers Macau (PLU) sought help from the Philippine Consulate and local authorities to support the victims. PLU chair Jassy Santos previously explained to local media that victims, desperate for steady work, borrowed money for placement fees but were left without pay. Complaints from jobseekers covered both missing wages and refunded agency fees. Some reported being dismissed or having visas cancelled without notice, leaving them liable for overstay fines and forced to leave Macau. DSAL said it is investigating suspected fraud involving this recent job scam. If any illegal activity is confirmed, offenders will be punished according to the law, the bureau stated to the Times. Data from the Statistics and Census Service shows that the current average salary for domestic workers in Macau is MOP5,000 per month. Lawmakers also have previously raised concerns over foreign worker protection, illegal employment practices, and the regulation of recruitment agencies in Macau. At a recent Legislative Assembly session, lawmaker Nick Lei highlighted an incident at a concert where authorities discovered a significant number of illegal workers. He urged the government to take decisive action to prevent similar abuses and strengthen enforcement. Lei also pressed the government to speed up several development plans that have been announced but not yet launched. He argued that rapid implementation of these projects is vital to address unemployment, especially among construction workers, and help stabilize the local job market. Like this: Like Loading... The hotel industry is experiencing a strong rebound this summer, with occupancy rates driven largely by of gaming tourists, according to hotelier Rutger Verschuren. While July and August bookings have reached near-capacity, the industry is bracing for a drop in September. We had a bit of a challenging June, but July and August look fantastic, Verschuren, vice-chairman of the Macau Hotel Association, said in an interview with the press on the sidelines of an event yesterday. I think none of us need to worry about occupancy. The typhoon was a little hiccup basically, but right away the hotels are back to high occupancy. Meanwhile, gaming resorts are leading the recovery, with occupancy rates in the 90 to 95% range. Questioned by the Times whether these numbers reflect bookings purely by tourists, Verschuren estimated that maybe 90 to 95% of the occupancy [at casino hotels] is occupied by potential gamblers, who are often hosted by the resorts as part of casino marketing strategies. I dont say all of them gamble, he clarified, but those are occupied by people who are targeted as potential gamblers. In contrast, non-gaming properties rely heavily on consumer choice. Every guest who comes here picks us because they really choose us, he said, referring to bookings on the peninsula particularly at hotels without casinos as being purely made by tourists. While room rates have not fully returned to 2019 levels, numbers remain healthy. Overall, we cannot complain at all. We are very happy this summer, and to see the international market coming back as well, Verschuren added. South Korea has emerged as a strong source market, helped by frequent direct flights. In contrast, limited flight connectivity continues to hinder recovery from Japan and other markets. However, he cautioned that numbers are expected to decline after the summer. We worry a bit about September, Verschuren admitted. Thats traditionally when the occupancy drops maybe by half once the kids go back to school. However, the hotelier remains optimistic about the final quarter of the year, which includes holidays such as Golden Week and Christmas. From October to December, we also expect that the business will be good, he said, citing government efforts to promote Macau overseas. Like this: Like Loading... The local Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) coordinator, Dr. Leong Iek Hou, has said there is no reason for excessive concern over the outbreak of chikungunya fever in Guangdong province. In a press conference organized by the Health Bureau (SSM) to address the cases of dengue and chikungunya fever, Leong explained that local authorities have been doing prevention work for several months, which is why Macau should not fear this outbreak. According to the same official, random cases of dengue and chikungunya are common in Macau and usually do not have serious consequences. She also explained that, contrary to some beliefs, chikungunya cases are less concerning and usually have fewer health consequences than dengue. Chikungunya fever cases rarely lead to serious infections, and so far, all reported infections in Guangdong province are mild, she said, adding that the disease, transmitted by the same mosquitoes responsible for dengue, has a quicker progression than dengue, with symptoms appearing just two or three days after a mosquito bite. She also clarified that there is no person-to-person contagion risk for either disease. Sharing statistics from the SSM, the official noted that in recent years, Macau has not recorded any cases of chikungunya, with the last ones dating back to 2013 and 2019, when two to three cases of the disease were recorded. All imported. And without records of severe illness or death. She remarked that this years first case was recorded last Friday in a patient with a recent travel history to the area of Foshan, the city currently affected by a chikungunya epidemic that is counting over 2,000 cases. Leong remarked that although the number seems high, no severe cases have been recorded in this city. This first case involved a 61-year-old resident who tested positive for the disease after returning to Macau from the Shunde district in Foshan, where he was visiting family for over a week. The second case is a 33-year-old female tourist from the Nanhai District in Foshan. The patient entered Macau around noon on July 21 and developed symptoms, including fever and rash, later that afternoon. According to the World Health Organization, chikungunya fever has been reported in 110 countries and regions worldwide. Over one-third of the worlds population lives in areas with risk factors for chikungunya infection. The primary transmission mode is through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, the same mosquitoes responsible for transmitting other diseases such as dengue and Zika. The disease causes symptoms like fever, skin rash, joint pain, and fatigue. Summer holidays can bring more cases Noting that this disease, as well as dengue, can be prevented using the same methods controlling mosquito proliferation Leong remarked that summer holidays can increase the number of cases. With summer holidays, we know that Macau will receive more visitors and that residents will travel more to the mainland or neighboring countries, so there is a higher risk of more cases of the disease appearing, Leong said, noting that prevention is essential and relatively simple. With the help and efforts of several community groups, we have been doing prevention work, and until June, we had conducted some 4,700 inspections in different areas. We also did several cleaning operations in April, followed by 1,220 chemical elimination actions for mosquitoes and larvae in June. This helps reduce the density of mosquitoes, she explained, noting that all residents can contribute by cleaning and emptying any receptacles with standing water. Particularly now, after a typhoon, it is very easy to find standing water in many places, so we are concerned that this will raise the risk of mosquito proliferation. We call on everyone to help prevent it by cleaning all standing water and emptying any receptacles at least once a week. Dengue fever represents a more serious threat The CDC coordinator also noted that, in comparison, dengue represents a more serious risk to the publics health, remarking that the number of cases is also much higher for dengue every year. Dengue is relatively more serious, and we also have recorded more cases. Last year, we had 39 cases, of which nine were local infections. This year, so far, we have recorded eight imported and one local case, Leong concluded. Like this: Like Loading... The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) has expanded the number of countries and travel destinations covered by the Macau SARs Travel Alert System. The new alert now covers 110 destinations, including Iran, Lebanon, Syria (Level 3), and Pakistan (Level 2). The Level 3 travel alert (Avoid Travel) indicates the presence of an extreme threat to personal safety. People traveling to these locations should be aware of the severe situation and the limits on official assistance that can be provided. They are advised to avoid traveling to the destination and, in certain situations, to leave the destination. Level 2 (Reconsider Non-Essential Travel) applies when there is a potentially elevated threat to personal safety. Residents planning to travel to these destinations should reconsider their itinerary or travel at a later time. They are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the destination. Recently, the MGTO joined the Monetary Authority of Macao, local travel agencies, and insurance companies to solicit their opinions and familiarize them with the information involved and the optimized webpage about travel alerts. In the same statement, MGTO said it would proceed with regular evaluations of the travel alerts issued and continue to optimize the travel alert system. In addition to the two primary levels of travel alert, there is also a first level (Level 1), which indicates the need to exercise caution while traveling to these destinations. However, there is no concrete motive or threat. Generally, travel alerts at the highest levels cover situations such as social unrest, war and armed conflicts, and disease outbreaks. Lower levels indicate less threatening conditions, such as weather-related events. The complete list of travel alerts issued by MGTO is available at: (https://www.dst.gov.mo/en/tourism-crisis-management/tourism-crisis-management-travel-alert.html). Like this: Like Loading... The 2025 Sands Shopping Carnival attracted nearly 110,000 visits over its three-day run from July 17 to 19 at The Venetian Macaos Cotai Expo. Originally scheduled for four days, the event concluded early due to Typhoon Wipha. Organised by Sands China Ltd. and co-organised by the Macao Chamber of Commerce, the annual event is now in its sixth edition. The carnival featured more than 580 booths across eight themed zones, including household products, gourmet and wine, local culture, and a new coffee zone reflecting the citys growing cafe culture. Community involvement included participation from 19 local NGOs and various support activities led by Sands Cares Ambassadors. This years edition also included performances, workshops, and a karaoke competition, as well as environmental activities aligned with the companys sustainability goals. Since its debut in 2020, the Sands Shopping Carnival has drawn over 640,000 visits, making it one of the citys most attended retail events. Like this: Like Loading... Assyrian Organizations Launch Relief Campaign for People in Syria North and East Syria -- In an escalating humanitarian response to the dire crisis gripping Syria's southern Suwayda province, the Syriac Cross for Relief and Development and the Shlomo Organization have launched a wide-scale civil solidarity campaign under the slogan "We Are All with Suwayda-- Open the Corridors -- Stop the Attacks." The campaign aims to raise funds and provide support to residents enduring a suffocating siege and near-total collapse of essential services. The initiative comes amid deteriorating humanitarian conditions affecting more than 300,000 people in Suwayda, who are suffering from acute shortages of food and water, a lack of fuel and medicine, and power outages, alongside reports of systematic security restrictions and severe limitations on movement--worsening what is now considered one of the harshest humanitarian disasters in Syria in recent years. In a joint statement, the two Syriac organizations reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the principles of human dignity and the right of all people to live in safety and with decency. "Our brothers and sisters in Suwayda are facing a tragic reality, as their lives are endangered by a policy of starvation and intimidation, amid a troubling silence from the international community," the statement read. The organizations called for immediate action, including the urgent opening of humanitarian corridors, lifting the siege on the province, and halting military attacks. They emphasized that the world's silence in the face of what is happening in Suwayda constitutes a blatant abandonment of ethical and humanitarian principles. In the same context, the Greek (Rum) Orthodox Metropolitan of Bosra, Hauran, Mount Druze, and the Golan, Bishop Mor Antonios Saad, issued a distress call urging an end to the suffering of civilians and the opening of roads for humanitarian aid. He warned of an impending catastrophe threatening the lives of thousands of besieged families. The Syriac mobilization comes at a critical moment in the province's history, which in recent weeks has witnessed rising tensions between residents and authorities due to worsening living conditions and growing restrictions on freedoms. As international silence persists, local civil initiatives such as the "We Are All with Suwayda" campaign remain a glimmer of hope in a time of isolation--a message that solidarity knows no borders and that the voice of conscience still resounds despite the darkness. President Donald Trump plans to host Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. today [Macau time] at the White House, as the two countries are seeking closer security and economic ties in the face of shifting geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific region. Marcos, who met Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth yesterday [Macau time], is set to become the first Southeast Asian leader to hold talks with Trump in his second term. Marcos three-day visit shows the importance of the alliance between the treaty partners at a time when China is increasingly assertive in the South China Sea, where Manila and Beijing have clashed over the hotly contested Scarborough Shoal. Washington sees Beijing, the worlds No. 2 economy, as its biggest competitor, and consecutive presidential administrations have sought to shift U.S. military and economic focus to the Asia-Pacific in a bid to counter China. Trump, like others before him, has been distracted by efforts to broker peace in a range of conflicts, from Ukraine to Gaza. Tariffs also are expected to be on the agenda. Trump has threatened to impose 20% tariffs on Filipino goods on Aug. 1 unless the two sides can strike a deal. I intend to convey to President Trump and his Cabinet officials that the Philippines is ready to negotiate a bilateral trade deal that will ensure strong, mutually beneficial and future-oriented collaborations that only the United States and the Philippines will be able to take advantage of, Marcos said Sunday when he was departing for Washington, according to his office. Manila is open to offering zero tariffs on some U.S. goods to strike a deal with Trump, finance chief Ralph Recto told local journalists. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt hinted that a trade agreement with the Philippines was in the works. Perhaps this will be a topic of discussion, she told reporters Monday when asked about tariff negotiations. The White House said Trump will discuss with Marcos the shared commitment to upholding a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific. Before a meeting with Marcos at the Pentagon, Hegseth reiterated Americas commitment to achieving peace through strength in the region. Our storied alliance has never been stronger or more essential than it is today, and together we remain committed to the mutual defense treaty, Hegseth said Monday. And this pact extends to armed attacks on our armed forces, aircraft or public vessels, including our Coast Guard anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea. Marcos, whose country is one of the oldest U.S. treaty allies in the Pacific region, told Hegseth that the assurance to come to each others mutual defense continues to be the cornerstone of that relationship, especially when it comes to defense and security cooperation. He said the cooperation has deepened since Hegseths March visit to Manila, including joint exercises and U.S. support in modernizing the Philippines armed forces. Marcos thanked the U.S. for support that we need in the face of the threats that we, our country, is facing. China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have been involved in long-unresolved territorial conflicts in the South China Sea, a busy shipping passage for global trade. The Chinese coast guard has repeatedly used water cannon to hit Filipino boats in the South China Sea. China accused those vessels of entering the waters illegally or encroaching on its territory. During Marcos meeting with Rubio, the two reaffirmed the alliance to maintain peace and stability in the region and discussed closer economic ties, including boosting supply chains, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said. The U.S. has endeavored to keep communication open with Beijing. Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met this month on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations regional forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They agreed to explore areas of potential cooperation and stressed the importance of managing differences.DIDI TANG, WASHINGTON, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... A new tropical storm is developing in the northwest Pacific, as meteorologists warn that the typhoon, this seasons seventh storm, could soon impact parts of Chinas southeastern coast. The Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) forecasts mainly cloudy skies with a few showers and thunderstorms today. Temperatures are set to range from 26 degrees Celcius to 30 degrees, with humidity between 75% and 95%. Winds will be moderate east to southeasterly, with occasional gusts. Tomorrow will bring cloudy conditions with sunny intervals and light easterly winds. From Friday through Sunday, mostly cloudy weather with brief sunny periods and scattered showers is expected. Winds will shift to southwesterly and remain light. The Hong Kong Observatory reports a broad trough of low pressure moving across the Guangdong coast and the central and northern South China Sea, bringing persistent downpours and thunderstorms for the next two to three days. Forecasters warn that a new low-pressure area could develop along this trough, resulting in unstable weather near Luzon. Meanwhile, the area of low pressure to the east of the Philippines will develop into a tropical cyclone, and move into the East China Sea later this week. Chinas meteorological department confirms that the tropical disturbance east of the Philippines has developed into a tropical depression and is expected to further strengthen, becoming Typhoon Fansigao by the end of the week. Current models show the storms trajectory could impact Fujian and Zhejiang, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds to Southern China. NS Like this: Like Loading... * Macau for patriots CAEAL backs National Security Committees review opinion on the selection of AL election candidates * Gaming | Gross revenue to grow over 9% in second half: Seaport * Hospitality |Gaming drives high summer occupancy in hotels * CDC coordinator Dr. Leong said there is no major reason for concern over the outbreak of chikungunya fever in Guangdong * Government confirms dozens of Filipino workers involved in labor disputes * Trump and Marcos Jr. plan to talk tariffs, China at the White House DOWNLOAD PDF Wednesday, July 23 2025 edition no. 4764 Like this: Like Loading... The family of a 15-year-old girl who died after getting caught in the crossfire of an alleged gang-related shooting two years ago has sued the owners and former manager of the apartment complex where the shooting occurred, alleging they failed to take steps that might have protected her. Kyesha Miller was killed and three 14-year-olds were injured when four men opened fire in the parking lot of the Harmony at Grandview Commons on Oct. 10, 2023, and then fled in a stolen SUV. One of the 14-year-olds injured was Kyeshas sister, Kaliyah Smith, a plaintiff in the suit along with their mother, Karnika Miller, and Kyeshas estate. Filed Tuesday in Dane County, the suit claims Harmony owner Royal Capital Group, of Milwaukee, and former property manager Horizon Management Services, of Madison, failed to provide adequate security, surveillance cameras, on-site staff and other services that might have reduced the chances that the property on Madisons Far East Side would become a haven for drug dealing and gang activity. In particular, it points to the defendants failure to install working surveillance cameras for at least 18 months after the complex opened in the spring of 2019, and while Royal Capital did eventually hire private security to patrol the property, security guards were not based there and often did not get out of their vehicles when on patrol. Defendants knew, or should have known, that the Harmony was a dangerous and unsafe property infiltrated by gangs engaged in drug dealing and violent crime, the suit says. Numerous criminal acts occurred at the Harmony and said criminal acts were reasonably likely to be perpetrated on residents and/or invitees unless all Defendants took appropriate measures to provide reasonable security. Royal Capital and a representative for Horizon, which managed the Harmony until about six months ago, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The suit also notes the hundreds of calls for police service that the complex generated each year and that conditions there were so bad in 2020 that the city declared it a chronic nuisance. That nuisance finding has since been lifted, but the 94-unit property continues to see instances of violence, including a shooting there in March and another incident in May in which a child accidentally shot himself with a gun he found in the apartment where he was living. Plaintiffs in the suit are asking for unspecified amounts of money to compensate them for the loss of Kyesha and the familys pain and suffering, and to punish Royal Capital and Horizon. The familys heartbroken, their attorney, Steve Eisenberg, said. The family put their trust in this facility, and they said, Were going to make your life better. And they did nothing. The Harmony, which cost about $20 million to build, according to the suit, was financed in part with an $11 million low-interest loan from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority and aimed at housing for families making between $30,000 and $50,000 a year. Criminal case continues Charged with first-degree intentional homicide and three counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide in the 2023 shooting are Javian D. White, 24, of Sun Prairie, Wilson D. Clark III, 22, of Fitchburg, and Donivan L. Douglas, 22, and Reginald M. Sexton Jr., 23, both of Madison. All are charged as parties to the crimes, likely because investigators arent sure who was shot by whom. During a court hearing in August 2024, Madison Detective Matthew Wentzel testified that police were called to the Harmony, in the 5900 block of Milwaukee Street, after the 911 Center received calls about dozens and dozens of shots fired, including some that hit children. Miller had been shot in the back and died later at the hospital, Wentzel said, while another victim was severely wounded and underwent lifesaving surgery, another sustained a through-and-through wound to the leg, and one other was grazed on the ankle by a bullet. Wentzel said security video showed a Lexus arriving and stopping and four passengers jumping out, all firing weapons. The driver remained in the vehicle, inching it forward, and then the other four got back in and the Lexus drove off, Wentzel testified. Surveillance video showed the Lexus also had been at Harmony about an hour before the shooting, Wentzel said. At the scene of the shooting, Wentzel testified, police recovered about 40 bullet casings. An analysis of the casings by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives found the casings came from four guns, he said. Wentzel testified that the shooting stemmed from an ongoing feud between two gangs one called MBK, whose members carried out the shooting, and another called OTG, with members who lived at Harmony. He said the feud has involved multiple homicides and attempted homicides. The suit filed Tuesday names the gangs as My Brothers Keeper and Only Tha Guys. Clark, Sexton and White are due in court Oct. 20 for jury selection in their trial, while Douglas is next scheduled to be in court on Nov. 21 for a status hearing. It wasnt clear Tuesday if other people might be charged in the case. Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne said in an email that he was ethically bound to not speak about open investigations and/or prosecutions. A Madison police spokesperson did not respond to an emailed question about whether the investigation into the shooting remains open. U.S. withdrawal contradicts fundamental principles of multilateralism: UNESCO head Xinhua) 08:30, July 23, 2025 Photo taken on July 3, 2025 shows the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) UNESCO director-general expressed regret over the U.S. decision, rejecting the stated reasons. PARIS, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Audrey Azoulay, director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said on Tuesday that U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO contradicts the fundamental principles of multilateralism. Deeply regretting the decision made by U.S. President Donald Trump, Azoulay warned that the withdrawal might affect foremost UNESCO's partners in the United States, in particularly communities seeking site inscription on the World Heritage List, Creative City status, and University Chairs. On Tuesday, the United States announced a decision to withdraw from UNESCO by the end of December 2026, just two years after rejoining the organization. This marks the third time Washington has exited UNESCO. According to a statement by the U.S. State Department, the withdrawal was prompted by what Washington perceived as UNESCO's tendency to "advance divisive social and cultural causes," particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. Photo taken on July 11, 2025 shows the U.S. Department of State building in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) In response, the UNESCO director-general expressed regret over the U.S. decision, rejecting the stated reasons. She emphasized that UNESCO remains a "rare forum for building consensus through concrete, action-oriented multilateralism." "These claims also contradict the reality of UNESCO's efforts, particularly in the field of Holocaust education and the fight against antisemitism," she added. Despite the loss of funding from the United States, Azoulay affirmed that the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO in 2026 will not affect the organization's normal operations, as its financial position has been significantly strengthened. "We have implemented major structural reforms and diversified our funding sources. Thanks to the efforts made by the Organization since 2018, the decline in U.S. financial contributions has been effectively offset," she stated. Azoulay also emphasized that UNESCO has intensified its efforts to take meaningful action wherever its mission can contribute to peace, reaffirming the critical importance of its mandate, even in the wake of the last U.S. withdrawal under President Trump in 2017. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) Rally in Sweden Calls for Protection of Christians in Syria Orebro, Sweden -- Religious and cultural institutions representing the Syriac (Aramean--Assyrian--Chaldean) community held a protest rally in Orebro, Sweden, denouncing the recent attack on the Mar Elias Greek (Rum) Orthodox Church in Daramsuq (Damascus), Syria. The protest, held in Olaf Palme Square, gathered members of the community who condemned the ongoing violence against Christians in Syria and called for Christians to be granted the right to manage their own affairs and protect their territories within the country. The rally began at 2:00 PM yesterday with a moment of silence in honor of those martyred in church attacks. Participants chanted slogans such as "Martyrs Do Not Die" as they held banners denouncing persecution. Speaking on behalf of the Virgin Mary Church, Cornelia Sander emphasized the urgent need for Western governments to support persecuted Christians in the Middle East. She shared her impressions from a recent visit to Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia), where she witnessed the challenges facing Christian communities firsthand. Following a spiritual hymn, Syriac politician Bahjat Barsom addressed the crowd, denouncing violations against Christians in Syria and criticizing the West for its failure to take concrete action. His speech was followed by another hymn that further underscored the solemn and spiritual tone of the event. Jacob Mirza, representing the European Syriac Union (ESU), delivered a powerful message condemning the terrorist attack on Mar Elias Church. He highlighted recent massacres targeting the Syriac (Aramean--Assyrian--Chaldean) people and called on Church leaders, patriarchs, political parties, and Christian organizations to unite in defending the remaining Christian communities in Syria. Mirza also reiterated the demand that Christians be granted full authority to govern and defend their ancestral regions. The protest concluded with remarks from Father Yakub Qas Elias, priest of the Virgin Mary Church in Orebro, who urged European governments to take a stronger stance in defending Christian rights and causes in the Middle East. He expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to organizing the event and showing solidarity. After spending two months as political prisoners, several leaders of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan (half the total number of detainees) have been granted bail. We expect them to be released today. On 30 July, the Revolutionary Communist International is calling for a day of action outside of Pakistani diplomatic buildings all over the world to demand freedom for the rest! The authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan, on the orders of the generals in Islamabad, have continued their repression against the AAC-GB and its supporters. Last week, the young AAC-GB leader Sarfraz Nagri was arrested at his home after he organised a long march in Nagar, mostly of women protestors, calling for the release of his comrades. This brought the total number of imprisoned leaders and activists to 16. In an inspirational demonstration of solidarity, Nagris arrest provoked a powerful, spontaneous protest that lasted for more than 30 hours, closing down the main highway in Nagar and forcing the authorities to let him go. Subsequently, bail was granted to Aslam Inqalabi, Waheed Hasan, Asghar Shah, Nafees Advocate, Azmat Ali, Ishtiaq Hussain and Haji Naib Khan. This reprieve would not have been achieved without the courageous and unrelenting struggle of the AAC-GBs supporters, both in Gilgit-Baltistan and throughout Pakistan; combined with the international solidarity campaign that has turned a global spotlight on the criminal behaviour of the Pakistani state. In the past week, a comrade of the Revolutionary Communist Party in Britain successfully passed a motion of solidarity with the AAC-GB at the national policy conference for Unite: one of the biggest unions in the country, representing 1.2 million workers. A comrade of Parti Communiste Revolutionnaire also passed a motion through the Thales branch of one of Frances biggest union confederations, CGT. These powerful workers organisations will now add their voices to the hundreds of trade union branches, labour leaders, politicians and activists who have endorsed our campaign. This international solidarity is critical, because the fight is far from over. The AAC-GB leaders on bail have not been acquitted, and after their release, they could easily be returned to jail. Moreover, eight have not been granted bail. These are Ehsan Ali, Masood ur Rehman, Mehbob Wali, Mumtaz Nagari, Taaruf Abbas, Irfan Azad, Manzar Maya and Shair Nadir Shahi. These eight have all had ludicrous terrorism charges levelled against them for the crime of standing up for the interests of working people in Gilgit-Baltistan, and frustrating the capitalists plans to strip the region of its rich resources. The bail application for AAC-GB chairman and leading members of the Inqalabi Communist Party, Ehsan Ali, was rejected on the absurd grounds that he has been delivering hate speeches and trying to provoke innocent people to rebellion. The judge (at the behest of the generals) also cynically exploited the India-Pakistan war in March to justify his ruling, condemning Alis criticism of the Pakistani state at a time when the armed forces of Pakistan were courageously fighting the enemies at the borders. Ali is suffering from severe health problems, and his condition is deteriorating. He is presently in hospital, where doctors are concerned about his heart and are requesting he be moved to a better facility for a more detailed medical examination, but the authorities have intentionally obstructed efforts to provide Ali with suitable care. It is imperative that we step up our international solidarity campaign once more. We must apply as much pressure as possible on the Pakistani regime to drop the charges against Ali and the other AAC-GB leaders. We remind our comrades that the AAC-GB political prisoners have endured all manner of torture and abuse. The authorities have even resorted to intimidating the prisoners families, particularly their female relatives, into convincing the prisoners to sign false confessions and incriminate one another on all manner of trumped up allegations. And yet, despite all of this, the detainees have steadfastly refused to cooperate. It is our duty, as communists and internationalists, to do everything in our power to secure their freedom. We call on all our members and supporters as well as the organisations, activists and individuals who have endorsed our campaign to join us a week from today on 30 July at Pakistani embassies, high commissions and consulates all over the world for an international day of action. We will say with one voice: the generals in Islamabad and the capitalists they represent are the real terrorists! We will not rest until all of the AAC-GB political prisoners are returned home! An injury to one is an injury to all! Hands off the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan! On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Mozambiques Public Prosecutors Office has formally charged opposition politician Venancio Mondlane with five offences, including incitement to collective disobedience and instigation of terrorism, following widespread unrest after the disputed October 2024 presidential election. Mondlane, who has rejected the election results as fraudulent, maintains his innocence and says he is facing political persecution for leading mass protests against what he describes as a dictatorial regime. He vowed to defend himself with the support of an international legal team, calling his actions a service to democracy. The contested election saw ruling party candidate Daniel Chapo claim victory, while Mondlane, backed heavily by young voters, finished second. Months of nationwide protests ensued, with election observers reporting that police killed at least 400 demonstrators and injured hundreds more. Although 31 police officers are now facing legal proceedings, tensions remain high. Mondlane has accused President Chapo of violating a recent peace and reconciliation agreement by targeting opposition figures, while the government insists it is acting within the law to preserve national order and constitutional integrity. Cameroon is witnessing an unprecedented political spectacle as 81 individuals have submitted their candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections slated for 12 October 2025. This record-breaking number has stirred national concern and triggered debates about the state of political governance. Political scientist Michel Oyane, from the University of Yaounde 2, attributes this surge to a growing disillusionment with the presidency, citing a disconnect between the public and the countrys leadership. He argues that the volume of candidacies reflects a broader malaise in Cameroonian politics, where the highest office appears to have lost its gravitas due to a perceived absence of presidential presence and accountability since the 2018 elections. Governance experts, including Professor Viviane Ondoua Biwole, have echoed similar sentiments, describing the situation as inconceivable and a troubling indicator of the nations democratic health. The extraordinary number of contenders is seen not as a sign of vibrant pluralism but rather a symptom of disillusionment, fragmentation, and weak institutional control over political processes. Critics warn that such a scenario could undermine the credibility of the electoral process and deepen citizen apathy, unless serious reforms are initiated to restore the integrity and seriousness of presidential aspirations. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Burkinabe counterpart Karamoko Jean-Marie Traore have reaffirmed on July 22 their commitment to deepening bilateral collaboration in the fight against terrorism and organised crime, amid growing insecurity in the Sahel and West Africa. Meeting in Ouagadougou on Tuesday, the two leaders highlighted shared priorities in preserving regional stability and agreed to launch a political consultation mechanism to enhance coordination on regional and global issues. Abdelatty reiterated Egypts support for Burkina Fasos sovereignty and counter-terrorism efforts. The ministers also co-inaugurated the EgyptBurkina Faso Business Forum, bringing together 30 leading Egyptian business figures to explore opportunities for economic and development partnerships. In a further show of solidarity, Burkina Faso endorsed Egypts candidate, Khaled El-Enany, for the post of UNESCO Director-General, underscoring the continents aspiration for greater representation in global institutions. Abdelattys visit to Burkina Faso forms part of his broader five-nation West Africa tour, which includes Nigeria, Niger, Mali, and Senegal. 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 More accurate measures are needed to help diagnose children with sepsis as a current clinical tool is failing to detect those requiring hospital care, according to a new study. The research, led by Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI) and published in The Lancet Regional HealthWestern Pacific, found less than 5% of children admitted to hospital with suspected sepsis met the Phoenix Sepsis Score. MCRI Associate Professor Elliot Long said the high rate of missed cases was concerning as access to treatment for sepsis, a life-threatening condition, required immediate medical intervention. Sepsis is often difficult to diagnose due to its non-specific symptoms, which can mimic other common illnesses. The condition is caused by the body's extreme response to an infection where the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body. Impacting essential organ function, sepsis can lead to serious lung, kidney, liver and heart damage. Every year, about 25 million children are diagnosed with sepsis, resulting in 3 million deaths. The World Health Organization has identified pediatric sepsis as a global health priority. "Severe infection and sepsis are major causes of childhood death," Associate Professor Long said. Sepsis must be identified quickly and treatment started urgently to prevent life-threatening consequences. But there is limited research into how common sepsis is among children and what symptoms can be used by parents or clinicians to detect sepsis earlier. "Country-specific sepsis data on incidence and severity have been infrequently and inconsistently reported due to a lack of clear diagnosis guidelines. As a result, the burden of sepsis on health care systems is largely unknown." To address this, the Society of Critical Care Medicine recently created and validated the Phoenix Sepsis Score. Associate Professor Long said this was the first study to test and validate the new international sepsis criteria in emergency departments in Australia and New Zealand. "The findings will be critical to improving sepsis care," he said. By detailing the incidence, severity, and outcomes of childhood sepsis, we can identify gaps in health care and improve outcomes." The study involved 11 hospitals across Australia and New Zealand in the Pediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) network, a collaboration of emergency departments, pediatric intensive care units and pediatric inpatient wards. Of the 6,232 children aged under 18 years with suspected sepsis, 306 fulfilled Phoenix sepsis criteria. Most of the children were boys, less than five years of age and had underlying health conditions. Only 1% of children with a fever had sepsis. Associate Professor Long said the Phoenix score failed to detect cases early and underestimated the overall burden of disease. "The Phoenix criteria didn't pick up 95% of children hospitalized with sepsis," he said. This high rate of missed cases is troubling for clinicians, researchers, policymakers and families because it does not tell the whole story." The study found 80% of children who fulfilled the sepsis score were admitted to intensive care, almost all required medical interventions such as breathing support and their time in hospital was almost tripled. "Failing to identify these children much earlier, before being admitted to intensive care, causes delays to treatment and impacts their recovery," Associate Professor Long said. More than half of the children who died did not fulfill the Phoenix criteria. Overall, 87 patients died within 90 days but just 42 of those met the criteria. MCRI Professor Franz Babl said the findings would help boost awareness of sepsis symptoms, ensure higher survival rates and improve quality of life. "We haven't substantially changed how we manage childhood sepsis in the past 20 years," he said. There are enormous knowledge gaps in how to best treat sepsis. Some treatments can even cause additional damage to patients, rather than helping them. Patients urgently need safe and effective alternatives." The trial aims to remove traditional research obstacles by testing and adapting several treatment options for sepsis at once to determine which are most effective. More information: Elliot Long et al, Epidemiology of community acquired sepsis in children in Australia and New Zealand: a multicentre prospective cohort study, The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2025.101608 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: Maksim Goncharenok from Pexels A new data analysis, published in Vaccine has found that women and menstruating people who had one or more mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccinations were more likely to experience changes to their menstrual cycle in the six weeks following their vaccine. The changes, detected using machine learning, were transient and lasted up to three months. The study from Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI) made use of a large Australian primary care dataset of de-identified information from people in Victoria and New South Wales who presented to local GPs with concerns about menstrual cycle changes. MCRI Researcher Dr. Aishwarya Shetty said that the study used machine learning to first identify symptoms raised on social media by women and people who menstruate, who felt that their concerns were not listened to. "We used machine learning to detect an increase of social media posts about changes to periods following COVID-19 vaccinationthis was then validated through our analysis of general practice data," Dr. Shetty said. "This research underlines the importance of listening to community-level concerns about public health interventions, including vaccines, and the need to validate and address them to help curb vaccine hesitancy." Using data from social platforms like Reddit and primary health information from Australian GP clinics made the analysis more robust than similar international studies. These studies used self-reported data on menstrual tracking apps and post-vaccination complaints forms, both of which carry inherent bias. "Our data was taken from people who went to their doctor with a menstrual cycle concern they may or may not have associated with a COVID-19 vaccinationand the analysis we performed was able to control factors that other studies couldn't," Dr. Shetty said. Dr. Shetty said that machine learning technology could also be used to identify community concerns much faster than traditional methods and could routinely monitor concerns within, or beyond, women's health. "Our established system VaxPulse proved effective in this study as it could, in the future, monitor social media to alert us to new outbreaks, medication side effects or public health concerns and we could investigate it using large datasets within days or even hours," she said. Dr. Shetty said her team will aim to develop new strategies to respond to community concerns in an effective way. "We listened, and we will continue to listen to all your vaccine-related concerns," she said. "This has been a valuable body of work and shows MCRI could play a key role in tackling public health concerns faster and more effectively while enabling researchers to listen, investigate and inform across consumer health and health informatics." More information: Aishwarya N. Shetty et al, Validating community concerns of menstrual changes associated with COVID-19 vaccination using a self-controlled case series analysis of real-world data, Vaccine (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127511 Journal information: Vaccine 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: Ivermectin tablets used for the BOHEMIA trial in Kenya. Credit: Life Spark Studios/BOHEMIA project Ivermectin administered to the whole population significantly reduces malaria transmission, offering new hope in the fight against the disease. The BOHEMIA trial, the largest study on ivermectin for malaria to date, showed a 26% reduction in new malaria infection on top of existing bed nets, providing strong evidence of ivermectin's potential as a complementary tool in malaria control. The results of this project, coordinated by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) in collaboration with the Manhica Health Research Center (CISM) and the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program, have been published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Malaria remains a global health challenge, with 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths reported in 2023. Current vector control methods, such as long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), have become less effective due to insecticide resistance and behavioral adaptations in mosquitoes to bite outdoors and during dusk or dawn, when people are not protected by these measures. This underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat malaria. Ivermectin for malaria: A novel strategy Ivermectin, a drug traditionally used to treat neglected tropical diseases like onchocerciasis, which causes river blindness, and lymphatic filariasis, which causes elephantiasis, has been shown to reduce malaria transmission by killing the mosquitoes that feed on treated individuals. Given the rising resistance to conventional insecticides, ivermectin could offer an effective new approach to tackling malaria transmission, especially in regions where traditional methods have become less effective. The BOHEMIA project (Broad One Health Endectocide-based Malaria Intervention in Africa) conducted two Mass Drug Administration (MDA) trials in the high-burden malaria regions: Kwale County (Kenya) and Mopeia district (Mozambique). The trials assessed the safety and efficacy of a single monthly dose of ivermectin (400 mcg/kg) given for three consecutive months at the start of the rainy season in reducing malaria transmission. In Kenya, the intervention targeted children aged 515, while in Mozambique it focused on children under five. Malaria reduction in Kenya In Kwale County, Kenya, children who received ivermectin experienced a 26% reduction in malaria infection incidence compared to those who received albendazole, the control drug used in the study. The trial involved over 20,000 participants and more than 56,000 treatments, demonstrating that ivermectin significantly reduced malaria infection ratesparticularly among children living further from cluster borders or in areas where drug distribution was more efficient. Moreover, the safety profile of ivermectin was favorable, with no severe drug-related adverse events and only mild, transient side effects already seen with ivermectin in campaigns against neglected tropical diseases. "We are thrilled with these results," says Carlos Chaccour, co-principal investigator of the BOHEMIA project and ISGlobal researcher at the time of the study. "Ivermectin has shown great promise in reducing malaria transmission and could complement existing control measures. With continued research, ivermectin MDA could become an effective tool for malaria control and even contribute to elimination efforts," Chaccour, who is now a researcher at the Navarra Center for International Development at the University of Navarra, adds. "These results align with the World Health Organization's (WHO) criteria for new vector control tools," states Joseph Mwangangi, from the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program. "The findings suggest that ivermectin MDA could be a valuable complementary strategy for malaria control, particularly in areas where mosquito resistance to insecticides is a growing concern," adds Marta Maia, BOHEMIA's lead entomologist from the University of Oxford. Lessons from the Mozambique trial In contrast, the implementation of the Mozambique trial in the rural district of Mopeia faced severe disruptions due to Cyclone Gombe (2022) and a subsequent cholera outbreak, which significantly disrupted operations. "One of the most important lessons we learned from the trial in Mopeia is that strong community engagement is essential," states Francisco Saute, director of the Manhica Health Research Center (CISM). "Building trust with local communities and fostering close collaboration with the Health Ministry, National Malaria Control Program, and local authorities was key to ensuring acceptance of the ivermectin MDA." Expanding the impact beyond malaria In addition to reducing malaria transmission, ivermectin MDA offers significant collateral benefits. The BOHEMIA team found an important reduction in the prevalence of skin infestations such as scabies and head lice in the ivermectin group in Mozambique, and the community reported a major reduction in bed bugs in Kenya. These effects are particularly valuable when ivermectin is integrated into existing delivery systems, maximizing its impact on public health. The study is part of a larger global effort to assess ivermectin's potential in malaria control. The findings have been reviewed by the WHO vector control advisory group, which concluded that the study had demonstrated impact and recommended further studies. Findings were also shared with national health authorities as they evaluate the potential inclusion of ivermectin in malaria control programs. "This research has the potential to shape the future of malaria prevention, particularly in endemic areas where existing tools are failing," concludes Regina Rabinovich, BOHEMIA PI and Director of ISGlobal's Malaria Elimination Initiative. "With its novel mechanism of action and proven safety profile, ivermectin could offer a new approach using a well-known, safe drug that can add to the effect of other mosquito control tools available today." 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: Flowers and messages are left by fans to commemorate the death of Ozzy Osbourne at the Black Sabbath Bridge in Birmingham, Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Kin Cheung Heavy metal rocker Ozzy Osbourne died this week at 76, just weeks after his farewell show and about five years after announcing he had Parkinson's disease. Here's what to know about the disease: What is Parkinson's? Parkinson's is a neurologic disease that robs people of control over their movements. It typically starts with tremors and is characterized by slow movement, a shuffling gait, stiff limbs, balance problems and slurred speech. Who gets it? About 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson's, and 10 million people worldwide, the Parkinson's Foundation. estimates. It usually appears after age 60, although sometimes it can develop before age 50. What causes Parkinson's? The exact cause isn't known, but Parkinson's develops when cells that produce one of the brain's chemical messengers, called dopamine, begin to deteriorate and die. Dopamine transports signals to parts of the brain that control movement. Parkinson's symptoms appear after enough dopamine-producing cells die that there's too little of this neurotransmitter in the brain. According to the foundation, most experts believe genetic and environmental factors are behind the disease. Dozens of gene mutations linked to Parkinson's have been discovered and genetics account for 10% to 15% of all cases. Other factors suspected of increasing the risk include head injuries, exposure to pesticides and herbicides and where you live. Is there a cure? There is no cure but there are treatments, including medications that affect dopamine levels and a surgically implanted tremor-blocking device. Patients also can benefit from physical and occupational therapy. What's the prognosis? Symptoms worsen over time, usually slowly. The severity of symptoms and how quickly they progress varies widely between patients. In advanced cases, people may be unable to walk or care for themselves. They also can suffer from depression as well as memory and thinking problems. While Parkinson's itself isn't considered fatal, people can die from complications of the disease, including lung problems as muscle weakness impedes the ability to cough and to swallow. 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: Credit: Photo By: Kaboompics.com from Pexels Roughly 1 in 10 babies worldwide is born before 37 weeks of pregnancya birth considered preterm. These infants are biologically less mature at birth and face a higher risk of developmental delays in various domains. Previous studies have shown that preterm children tend to score lower on language assessments during kindergarten and school age. But do these differences already emerge during infancy? Researchers at the University of Zurich set out to answer this question by examining whether language differences can be detected within the first 18 months of life. For their meta-analysis, they reviewed 21 studies from nine countries, covering more than 1,800 children. The findings, published in Pediatrics, revealed that preterm infants between the ages of 3 and 18 months scored lower on both language comprehension and expression compared to their full-term peers. "These results should be interpreted with caution," says lead author Miriam Loffler. "The preterm infants in the studies we analyzed were, on average, born at 30 weeks of gestation." In reality, about 75% of all preterm births occur later, between 34 and 37 weeks. The researchers found that the earlier the birth and the lower the birth weight, the weaker the child's performance in language comprehension. "In a more representative sample, these differences might be less pronounced," explains the developmental psychologist. The meta-analysis highlights the importance of identifying potential language delays within the first months of life. While many early signs may resolve over time, they can still indicate future developmental risks. That's why early language development should be systematically monitored during routine health checkupsespecially in preterm infantsand supported with targeted interventions when needed. "Parents also play a vital role in fostering their child's language development," Loffler emphasizes. "Talking frequently with their baby from the very beginning, responding to their sounds, or looking at books together all help lay essential foundations. If there are concerns, it's wise to consult a pediatrician or a speech-language specialist early on." More information: Miriam T. Loeffler et al, Early Expressive and Receptive Language Development in Preterm vs Full-Term Children: A Meta-Analysis, Pediatrics (2025). DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-070477 Journal information: Pediatrics 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: Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels More than 100,000 Rich's Ice Cream Co. bars have been recalled due to possible listeria contamination. The affected ice cream bars were sold across 23 states and in Nassau, capital of the Bahamas, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said. Rich's Ice Cream, based in West Palm Beach, Fla., and the FDA initiated the recall on June 27, and the FDA declared it a Class II recall last week. The Class II designation signifies a "situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences," the FDA said. So far, there are no reported illnesses related to the recalled ice cream bars, but the investigation is "ongoing," the FDA noted. Each year, 1,600 people are infected with Listeria, and 260 people will die from the infection, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Listeria infection, or listeriosis, can be especially harmful for pregnant women, newborns, seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems. Symptoms typically include diarrhea and vomiting. The recalled ice cream bars were individually packaged in plastic bags and sold in master cases. They are labeled with Lot #24351 through #25156, and include: Chocolate Crunch Cake Bar Strawberry Shortcake Bar Rich Bar Crumbled Cookie Bar Orange Cream Bar Fudge Frenzy Bar Cotton Candy Twirl Bar Savagely Sour Blue Raspberry Bar Savagely Sour Cherry Bar Cool Watermelon Bar Customers are urged not to eat affected ice cream bars. The FDA and Rich Ice Cream Co. have not yet announced what remedies are available, according to U.S. Today. To reach out to the company, consumers can visit Rich Ice Cream Co.'s. website. More information: Read the full recall notice at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Copyright 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved. The government has launched a nationwide call for 4,000 internship positions under the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP), targeting recent graduates from a variety of professional fields. The 12-month internships are part of a broader national strategy to equip young professionals with hands-on experience while speeding up the rollout of affordable housing projects across the country. In a public notice, the State Department for Housing and Urban Development invited applications from graduates in fields including architecture, civil engineering, environmental science, law, ICT, digital marketing, and several others. Successful interns will receive a monthly stipend, with the amount set by the government, as they contribute to one of Kenyas flagship development initiatives. The internship programme is designed to offer graduates real-world experience across AHP and marketing project sites across the country, while also nurturing the next generation of professionals in housing and urban development, the statement read in part. Among the key allocations in the internship program, 300 positions have been reserved for architecture graduates, while 250 slots are earmarked for those in construction management. Additionally, the government has allocated 200 opportunities each to professionals in civil, mechanical, electrical, structural engineering, and quantity surveying. The programme also includes 150 slots each for environmental practitioners and communication/branding specialists, alongside 150 openings for urban and regional planning. Health and safety will get 180 slots, social development 165, while land surveying/geospatial science and landscape architecture will each receive 100 positions. Graduates in legal studies, financial analysis, economics, ICT, and human resources will also benefit, with opportunities ranging from 20 to 60 slots per discipline. To qualify, applicants must hold a Bachelors degree or diploma in one of the listed fields from a recognized institution, have graduated in 2018 or later, and possess solid computer skills. Interns selected under the Affordable Housing Programme will take on key responsibilities, including assisting professional teams in the rollout of housing projects, documenting the skills and experiences gained, and engaging in structured mentorship sessions. This is not only a chance to serve the country but also to gain valuable work experience in a dynamic and critical sector, the State Department for Housing and Urban Development stated. After completing the programme, interns will receive an official certificate from the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, potentially boosting their employment prospects in both public and private sectors. All applications must be submitted online via the Public Service Commissions job portal at www.publicservice.go.ke or www.psckjobs.go.ke by September 6, 2025. The Social Health Authority (SHA) has committed to settling all pending payments to healthcare facilities within the next three weeks, amid growing concern over delayed disbursements that many say have strained operations and jeopardized service delivery. On Tuesday, July 22, SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mercy Mwangangi said the authority is finalizing the audit of claims submitted by more than 9,000 contracted facilities by the July 1 deadline. The goal, she explained, is to ensure all payments comply with Social Health Insurance Regulations 59 and 61 and meet the terms of each facilitys contract. SHA is currently reviewing all healthcare claims to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and access rules, said Dr. Mwangangi. So far, the authority has disbursed Ksh3 billion to eligible facilities, after completing the review of claims for accident and emergency services, haematology and oncology care, and renal treatments. Payments for the Primary Healthcare Fund and Maternity Package were also released on July 22. The authority is now reviewing claims related to inpatient services, surgical procedures, and other medical packages, with final disbursements expected in the coming weeks. The announcement comes at a time when many health facilities are sounding the alarm over the impact of delayed reimbursements. According to a recent study by the Rural and Urban Private Hospitals Association of Kenya (RUPHA), only 20% of health providers under SHAs Primary Health Care (PHC) model received their full monthly payments. The ripple effects have been devastating. The study found that 36% of facilities had resorted to loans, 30% were on the verge of default, 13% faced auction risks, 9% were battling supplier lawsuits, and 1% had already shut down operations. The Ministry of Health reports that 9,365 health facilities are currently contracted under the SHA scheme, including 5,219 public, 3,650 private, and 496 faith-based institutions. Dr. Mwangangi acknowledged the urgency of the situation and reaffirmed SHAs commitment to restoring confidence among healthcare providers through transparency, timely payments, and ongoing engagement. Launched under the Taifa-Care initiative on October 1, 2024, SHA is at the core of Kenyas push for universal health coverage, with over 24 million Kenyans now enrolled in the system. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has assured staff transitioning from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA) that no one will be rendered jobless. Speaking on Tuesday, July 22, Duale acknowledged the anxiety among workers, particularly those who had previously been seconded to ministries and the Public Service Commission (PSC), where some suffered drastic salary cuts of up to 90 percent. He moved to dispel fears, stating that all staff will either be absorbed into SHA or redeployed within the public service. Let me be clear, no staff will lose their job, Duale said. Those redeployed if not absorbed by the SHA will go with their current grades and remunerations. The ongoing recruitment into SHA is guided by the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 (SHI Act), which emphasizes fairness, competitiveness, and integrity. Duale said the government is building the new institution from the ground up and is keen on hiring individuals based on merit and innovation. We are building a new organisation from the ground up, and this requires a new approach to talent acquisition that prioritises integrity, competence and innovation, he explained. Qualified former NHIF staff will be given priority in the recruitment process. For those who may not be absorbed through the competitive process, Duale reiterated that they will be redeployed across the wider public service without losing their current pay or job status. In order to protect the integrity of the transition, the Ministry of Health has initiated a vetting exercise to verify the authenticity of academic and professional qualifications. Duale indicated that legal action would be initiated against individuals found to have forged documents. He also urged transitioning staff to remain focused on delivering quality service to the public. Serving Kenyans diligently is the duty of each one of us, in every role we hold, he said. The SHA, launched under the Taifa-Care initiative on October 1, 2024, has already enrolled over 24 million Kenyans. The program aims to deliver affordable and accessible healthcare for all. Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has slammed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of acting as though he owns the Gen Z movement. Speaking on Tuesday, July 22, Salasya called for Gachaguas retirement, saying his time in politics is over, just like ODM leader Raila Odinga. Rigathi Gachagua must be told again, just like Raila was told, to go home and relax, and let Kenyans deal with President Ruto. He behaves as if he is the one who owns Gen Z. Rigathi must be told that Kenyans are not stupid, Salasya said. The firebrand legislator also revisited the 2022 general election, arguing that emotional voting patterns played a major role in propelling President William Ruto to power. He warned that Gachaguas attempts to woo Gen Z would not save him or his allies in future elections. They voted in Ruto with emotions, and no one is going to vote in Rigathi or his group of partners with emotions again, only for them to start leading this country with revenge and emotion, he added. Salasya urged the country to take a new political course one of healing and unity amidst rising political tensions. Kenya now needs a true leader who will unite this country and take it forward, a new face that will bring healing and new hope, he concluded. Coldplay paid tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during their show in Nashville, Tennessee just hours after his death. Chris Martin paid tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during Coldplay's show in Nashville Chris Martin's band took to the stage at the city's Nissan Stadiumon Tuesday (22.07.25) evening shortly after the Black Sabbath legend passed away aged 76 and the frontman gave a moving speech remembering the late rocker before the band played a cover of his track Changes. Martin told the audience: "We'd like to dedicate this whole show to the incredible genius, talent, and characterful [sic] gift to the world who was Ozzy Osbourne. We send our love to his family." At the end of the song, Martin looked towards the sky and raised his arms, saying: "OK Ozzy, we love you. Wherever you're going. Thank you for everything." Ozzy first recorded Changes with Black Sabbath in 1972, but he released it again in 2003 as a duet with his daughter Kelly. His death comes just two weeks after the rocker reunited with his Black Sabbath bandmates for their Back To The Back to the Beginning farewell show in their hometown of Birmingham, England which raised millions of pounds for charity. The good causes supported by the gig included Birmingham Children's Hospital, which released a statement thanking Ozzy for his lasting contribution to the organisation's future. It read: "We're so very sad to hear the news of Ozzy Osbourne's passing. Ozzy had an incredible career and life, but never forgot his Brummie roots. "Our hospital was extremely lucky to have his support over the years and most recently with his iconic final performance, which will leave a lasting legacy for our sick kids. "Our thoughts are with Sharon and the whole Osbourne family. Our hospital has lost a friend, Birmingham a son and the world a musical legend." The concert's funds will also help the Acorns Children's Hospice, and a spokesperson for the charity said of the loss: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ozzy Osbourne and send our heartfelt condolences to Sharon and the entire Osbourne family at this incredibly difficult time ... "For us at Acorns, Ozzy's generosity and compassion will never be forgotten. His decision, alongside Black Sabbath and Sharon Osbourne, to support Acorns during their unforgettable Back to the Beginning show at Villa Park was a moment of pure magic ... "That night and in the weeks since, thanks to Ozzy, our children's hospice care has been embraced by people across the world. Families who so often can feel unseen have been celebrated by millions." Heavy rainfall in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has caused flash flooding, resulting in four people being swept away in separate incidents, Dawn reported. One of the victims, a retired Pak army officer, Col Ishaq Qazi, and his 25-year-old daughter, were caught in a strong water current while driving through a housing society near the Sihala police limits. According to officials, their car was swept away into a nearby drain due to the intense water flow. Rescue teams launched an operation, deploying divers and setting up checkpoints along the Soan River, where the drain leads. Despite searching for over ten hours, the victims had not been located by the time operations were halted at night. In a separate incident, the body of a 17-year-old boy, Hammad Shah, was found in the Soan River. Witnesses in the Humak area reported that he had slipped while walking along the muddy edge of a flooded drain and was swept away, according to Dawn. A third incident occurred in Khanna, where an eight-year-old girl named Anya went missing after falling into the Korang drain during the rain. She was walking nearby when she lost her footing. Authorities launched a search, but her whereabouts remained unknown till late evening. In Rawalpindi, the rising water levels in Leh Nullah (stream) triggered a pre-alert, as water reached 10 feet at Kattarian Bridge and 7 feet at Gawalmandi Bridge. The local administration, army, and emergency services were placed on high alert to manage any emergency. According to Dawn, the rain started early in the morning and continued till afternoon. Although it stopped later, residents in low-lying areas continued working through the evening to clear floodwater from their homes. The Meteorological Department recorded significant rainfall across the region 101 mm in Saidpur, 78 mm in Golra, and 68 mm in Bokra. In Rawalpindi, 85 mm was reported in the Katcheri area, with forecasts predicting more rainfall over the next two days. Flooding affected roads and neighbourhoods including Murree Road, Saddar, Sadiqabad, Kutchery Chowk, Tench Bhatta, and Jamia Masjid Road. In some areas, floodwater entered homes, and traffic was disrupted. A motorcyclist slipped into a drain on Dhamial Road and was rescued. A house in Lalazar-2 also suffered damage after floodwater entered during the downpour. Power outages were reported in multiple areas due to safety concerns, but electricity was gradually restored later in the day. Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar Cheema said the rainfall was intense but manageable. He stated that emergency teams were deployed and instructions were given to clear flooded streets, as per Dawn. Wasa Managing Director Saleem Ashraf said all machinery and personnel were on duty. According to him, early removal of blockages in the nullahs had helped reduce the severity of flooding. (ANI) Income tax employees across the country will boycott the official Income Tax Day celebrations on July 24, as part of an escalating protest against what they term the "persistent apathy" of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) toward their pressing concerns. The Joint Council of Action (JCA), representing the Income Tax Employees Federation (ITEF) and Income Tax Gazetted Officers Association (ITGOA), announced a series of agitation programs that will intensify over the coming weeks, potentially disrupting tax administration operations nationwide. The protest will begin with demonstrations on July 23 at all Principal Chief Commissioner/Chief Commissioner/Principal Commissioner stations across 18 regions. "The chronic indifference of the administration towards our pressing issues has compelled us to initiate this protest," stated the JCA in a letter to CBDT Chairman dated July 21, 2025.On July 29, JAF has planned for half-day dharnas and demonstrations at all major tax offices and suspension of all reports except those for Parliamentary questions and court orders. There will also boycott of outreach programs and non-participation in official meetings, both physical and virtual and black flag demonstrations if CBDT members visit field offices.According to the JCA from 5 to 7 August, there will be extended daily dharnas and a complete halt to search and survey operations, including TDS surveys and a full-day walkout on August 8. The JCA highlighted multiple unresolved issues affecting 97% of the department's workforce. The recent Annual General Transfer (AGT) orders issued on July 16 have "aggravated prevailing discontent" by ignoring deserving cases involving genuine compassionate grounds. The long-standing practice of transferring officers back to home regions after cooling-off periods has been "abruptly discontinued."Delays in the overdue Cadre Review and Restructuring exercise continue to cause "acute stagnation" across Group C and B cadres. A committee report on career progression for non-IRS cadres reportedly ignored JCA proposals.Multiple promotion and regularisation issues remain unresolved, including regularisation of Assistant Commissioners (2024 batch) pending with UPSC for over six months, Ad-hoc promotions in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh regions, All-India Income Tax Officer seniority list preparation delays and non-financial upgradation issues for 2008-2011 batches. Employees have also raised concerns about "frequent and duplicative requests for data and reports" with "artificial deadlines" that disregard statutory time limits. The reorganisation of Junior Assessment Officer charges, created during the faceless assessment scheme implementation, remains pending despite repeated requests. Despite ambitious plans for digital platform upgrades including Taxnet 2.0, ITBA 2.0, and other systems, the JCA criticised the lack of matching hardware and software support. "Over a thousand newly promoted Income Tax Officers are being forced to work without departmental laptops," the letter stated. The protest comes despite the recent reappointment of the current CBDT Chairman, which had "created a lot of expectation among the fraternity." However, the JCA expressed that "our anticipations were belied" by the recent transfer orders and continued delays in resolving long-pending issues. (ANI) New Delhi [India], July 23: With over three decades of dedication to quality and innovation, Fantasy Enterprises is pleased to announce the launch of its new premium brand, Meyvin, as well as the official e-commerce platform, www.meyvin.in. With an emphasis on high-end backpacks, laptop bags, sling bags, and everyday carry essentials, Meyvin joins the niche market, catering to affluent consumers, business professionals, and corporates. At the core of Meyvin's identity is a bold new logo that features a buck, representing the company's core values. The buck is a symbol of resilience, wisdom, and leadership that dates back to ancient times. These classic qualities align perfectly with Meyvin's goal of fusing fine craftsmanship with cutting-edge designs. "Meyvin is a mindset, not just a brand," said Mr Mohd Khalid, Managing Partner, Fantasy Enterprises. "Our over 30 years of history serve as the cornerstone of this brand, and with Meyvin, we are providing goods that seamlessly blend style, functionality, and elegance. Our buck emblem is a bold representation of our values, strength, alertness, and knowledge, rather than merely a design element," added Mr. Khalid. Customers can now directly access the entire Meyvin collection, which is tailored to the active lifestyles of professionals across all levels, by logging in at www.meyvin.in. "Every product is made from premium materials, living up to the brand's promises of robustness, style, and functionality," added Md. Tahseen, Director, Fantasy Enterprises. Meyvin products are designed to improve users' daily experiences, whether they are navigating the city streets or the boardroom. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN Gurugram (Haryana) [India], July 23:In today's dynamic business landscape, where distribution networks drive competitive edge, loyalty programs are undergoing a much-needed transformation. Benepik's latest report, Channel Partner Loyalty: Trends & Challenges Report 2025, sheds light on how India's leading brands are evolving their loyalty strategies to tackle rising expectations, digital disruption, and operational complexity. Despite the growing focus on loyalty, nearly 46% of organizations still struggle to engage their channel partners effectively. Complex redemptions, outdated communication methods, and manual processes continue to dilute the impact of loyalty efforts. However, the report also reveals a strong movement towards holistic channel partner engagement, a model that blends tech-enabled personalization, role-specific targeting, and real-time communication to drive stronger, more sustainable outcomes. Brands that have adopted partner segmentation and mobile-first loyalty solutions have witnessed measurable success, reporting up to 60% improvement in ROI. One of Benepik's clients from the auto ancillary sector even recorded a 3.5x increase in Channel Partner engagement within 90 days of restructuring its loyalty framework. Unlocking Loyalty Beyond Transactions The report draws on insights from a diverse mix of sectors including FMCG, Auto Ancillary, Agri-inputs, Pharma, Construction Materials, and BFSI. The findings make one thing clear: traditional, one-size-fits-all loyalty programs are falling short. In contrast, forward-looking brands are building loyalty ecosystems that prioritize personalization, digital enablement, and ongoing engagement. "This study highlights a clear misalignment between loyalty program design and what truly drives channel partner motivation," said Saurabh Jain, Founder-Benepik. "The opportunity lies in rethinking loyalty not as a reward system, but as an ecosystem strategy that fuels growth, trust, and long-term advocacy. What makes this report truly comprehensive is its inclusion of perspectives from both organizations and their channel partners, offering a 360-degree view of the loyalty ecosystem." The Loyalty Gap: Friction Points That Undermine Impact Despite recognizing loyalty's strategic value, many programs are held back by executional challenges. The top issues reported include: * Complicated redemptions (42%)* Ineffective communication (38%)* Manual processing (33%)* Lack of system integration (31%) These friction points erode trust and lower program adoption. As Saurabh Jain notes, "Redemption is the moment of truth in any loyalty journey. If it's slow, unclear, or delayed, it erodes partner trust instantly." Segmentation and Personalization Are Driving Results Organizations that have moved to segmented programs tailored by partner type be it dealers, mechanics, retailers, or field staff are seeing far better outcomes. Role-specific targeting, combined with real-time dashboards and mobile accessibility, is helping brands deepen engagement even in rural and semi-urban regions. Echoing this shift toward inclusive loyalty, Ratnesh Mishra, GM-Spares & Allied Business at Atul Auto, emphasized the value of consistent, ground-level engagement: "We reached beyond dealers to mechanics and incentivized consistently, not just quarterly. It helped us convert channel touchpoints into long-term loyalty." Missed Opportunities Around Learning and Recognition The report reveals a significant missed opportunity in how brands approach training and channel partner recognition within loyalty programs. While partner education is widely acknowledged as a driver of long-term engagement, only 36% of organizations currently integrate training into their loyalty strategies. Even fewer provide consistent communication or field-level recognition, with most rewards still concentrated on top-performing sellers overlooking key influencers like support staff. Highlighting a more inclusive approach, Shashank Shaikhar, Marketing Manager at Dr. Willmar Schwabe, quoted: "What stood out for us was Benepik's ability to include pharmacy staff, not just field force. Recognition across the entire value chain helped drive brand recall and partner motivation." The Partner's Voice: What They Really Want Channel partners consistently seek simplicity, clarity, and timely gratification. They want loyalty programs that are easy to understand, transparent in progress tracking, and flexible in rewards. "I can now track everything on one screen: targets, rewards, and how to earn more. That makes me want to sell better," says Rajeev Gupta, a retailer based in Delhi. Given the diversity of the channel partner ecosystem, dealers, contractors, retailers, influencers, a unified loyalty approach no longer works. Brands need to create experiences that reflect the unique motivations of each stakeholder. Loyalty as a Strategic Lever Across industries from cement and insurance to pharmaceutical, leaders agree that when executed well, loyalty programs do more than just reward performance; they strengthen relationships, drive consistent sales, and build long-term brand affinity. "Our advisors and loan partners are the backbone of our business, especially in underserved markets, keeping them engaged goes beyond payouts. We've seen that loyalty programs offering transparency, timely recognition, and flexibility help build lasting trust," quoted Rohit Gaur, Head of Product & Strategy at India Shelter Finance Corporation Ltd. "Trade gratification is a game changer. It helped us build stronger retail relationships and drive consistent sales," says Balakrishna Sahu, DGM-Marketing at Dharampal Premchand Ltd. "For a B2B beauty brand like ours, loyalty helps us engage salon owners beyond transactions through upskilling, technology, and co-creation," notes Supriya Agarwal, Head of Marketing at ESME Beauty. "At Dhanuka, we see loyalty as a means to empower our channel by combining timely incentives with knowledge-sharing and grassroots recognition," shares Subodh Kumar Gupta, DGM - Marketing at Dhanuka Agritech Ltd. Each testimonial underscores a common truth: effective loyalty programs are not just incentives they're enablers of business transformation. What's Next: Building Loyalty That's Intelligent, Inclusive, and Impact-Driven The report concludes with a forward-looking roadmap that encourages brands to future-proof their channel loyalty programs by: * Adopting AI-driven personalization* Enabling real-time engagement through mobile dashboards* Integrating training, communication, and recognition* Building emotional connect and community across the channel As Saurabh Jain aptly puts it: "Loyalty isn't won with rewards, it's earned through recognition, relevance, and relationships. The brands that embrace this will lead not only in market share, but in mindshare." About Benepik Benepik is a leading Loyalty, Rewards & Engagement platform, empowering over 700+ brands to engage meaningfully with their employees, channel partners, and consumers. With real-time analytics, gamified programs, and mobile-first tech, Benepik helps businesses turn loyalty into a long-term growth engine. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL New Delhi [India], July 23: In the fast-paced, competitive world of today, working professionals and students are seeking smarter, more convenient means of upskilling. As a result, Online Manipal has become the go-to platform for ambitious learners everywhere. With UGC-entitled degrees and professional courses blending convenience with credibility, Online Manipal inspires students to pursue world-class education without affecting their personal or professional lives. With learners from 60+ nations and 2000+ cities and towns in India, Online Manipal is creating a worldwide network of professionals ready for the future--one degree at a time. 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With access to world-class faculty and global learning resources, Online Manipal enables students and working professionals to achieve high-quality academic and career goals from anywhere in the world. Contact Information - Online Manipal Website - https -//www.onlinemanipal.com/ Email - info@onlinemanipal.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) C Veeramani, Professor and Director, Centre for Development Studies, on Wednesday, said that issues related to critical mineral supply chains between India and China can be addressed through negotiations and bilateral engagement. "It may have some short-term impact, but then China also needs India as much as India needs China, for their growth. They need the Indian market, a large market. This can be sorted out through negotiations and bilateral engagement between the two countries," Professor Veeramani told ANI. He added that that larger geopolitical issues must be handled at the government level. "The larger geopolitical issues need to be tackled by the government, and already there are initiatives in terms of signing trade agreements. Efforts are on with the US, with EU there are efforts, recently we have reached an agreement with the UK. We should be more in agreement with other countries to address such problems," he said. In early April, China announced a decision to implement export controls on certain rare earth-related items, which is expected to push a global supply shortage, including in India. India is in touch with the Chinese side, seeking predictability in the supply of critical metals. Beyond China, there are only a few alternative suppliers of critical minerals. The central government has earmarked Rs 1,345 crore to incentivise rare earth magnet production in India, aimed at building domestic capacity, following reports of a global short supply, Minister for Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy said recently. Meanwhile, the Centre for Development Studies (CDS) unveiled a study-based report today, asserting that India could become a key player in the global electronics manufacturing sector with the help of active participation in the supply chains for manufactured exports, particularly by integrating "backwards" into the value chain. "India has the potential to establish itself as a critical node in the global electronics manufacturing landscape through backwards-linked GVC participation for manufactured exports, potentially challenging the dominance of China and Vietnam in this area," the report said. The study-based report attributes this shift to a decisive policy realignment towards exports, particularly through the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme launched in 2020. This, coupled with integration into global value chains (GVCs), has enabled India to transition from an import-dependent mobile market in 2014-15 to a leading hub for production and export. The report further reveals that India's mobile phone exports surged from USD 0.2 billion in 2017-18 to a staggering USD 24.1 billion in 2024-25, an increase of nearly 11,950 per cent. Additionally, it reveals that the mobile phone manufacturing sector has seen a significant rise in Domestic Value Addition (DVA), signalling a deepening of the ecosystem. Total DVA reached 23 per cent in 2022-23, amounting to over USD 10 billion. Direct DVA increased by 283 per cent, from USD 1.2 billion to USD 4.6 billion, while indirect DVA, representing contributions from domestic suppliers, rose by 604 per cent, from USD 470 million to USD 3.3 billion. Employment has also risen in parallel. According to Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) data, the mobile phone sector supported over 17 lakh jobs in 2022-23. Jobs tied to exports alone increased over 33 times, with substantial wage growth observed in export-linked roles. Professor and Director, Centre for Development Studies, C. Veeramani noted, "With the mobile phone manufacturing providing a blueprint for growth, India can replicate similar strategies across the electronics sector to position the country as a global manufacturing leader,". Speaking at the event, C Veeramani added, "Elsewhere in the larger electronics sector, so that the opportunities are enormous that exist in that sector and that we can tap into." Echoing this, Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman of India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) said, "This study reaffirms what ICEA has consistently advocated that strategic integration into global value chains is critical for scaling exports, enhancing domestic value addition, and creating jobs." Overall, the report urges policymakers to sustain an outward-oriented approach, suggesting reforms such as liberalised trade policies, tariff correction, and investment in logistics and ecosystem development. Emphasising scale before early-stage localisation, the study outlines a strategic roadmap to maintain India's competitive edge and expand its leadership in global electronics manufacturing. (ANI) A recent video shared by producer Binoy Gandhi captures the two actors on a flight, heading toward the climax shoot of the film. "Last Battle Loading...," he captioned the post. Before boarding the flight, Varun also happily posed for the paps outside the Mumbai airport. He looked quite fit as he was seen donning a fitted black T-shirt with camouflage pants. He also stole attention with his moustache. Backed by a stellar production team, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, the film is presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series in association with JP Dutta's J.P. Films. The sequel promises to carry forward the iconic legacy of Border, celebrating the heroism, sacrifice, and unshakable spirit of India's soldiers. The film also stars Sunny Deol and Diljit Dosanjh. 'Border 2' is one of the most anticipated films of 2026. It will be released in theatres on January 23 next year. (ANI) In a post on X, CM Rekha Gupta wrote, "I am pleased to share that the Delhi Government has declared the film 'Tanvi the Great' tax-free in the state. With an impactful narrative of inclusion, the film is an inspiring story of a young, 'special' girl-Tanvi, who is determined to achieve her dreams against all odds." https://x.com/gupta_rekha/status/1947999068506231192?s=48&t=pGU8BerQmkbmBgzLSg580g "Tanvi's story is emotional and inspirational. We are committed to promote films that strengthens the spirit of Rashtra Seva, ignites patriotism, and awakens the conscience of the nation. Best wishes to the entire team of the film," her post read. CM Rekha Gupta also shared a picture with Kher and actor Shubhangi Dutt from the film's screening which conducted in the national capital recently. Earlier, on Monday, the film was declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh by the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. "Today, I had the opportunity to watch the film *Tanvi The Great* with the renowned actor and director Shri @AnupamPKher ji in Bhopal. I announce that the film will be made tax-free in Madhya Pradesh," CM Yadav stated in a post on X. Centred on the Indian Army and autism, 'Tanvi The Great' tells the story of a young girl (Shubhangi Dutt) who lives with her mother and grandfather (Anupam Kher). Inspired by her late father, she is determined to join the armed forces. The film also features Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Karan Tacker, Arvind Swami, Nasser, and British actor Iain Glen. Produced by Anupam Kher Studios along with NFDC, the film has received global accolades during its festival run in Cannes, New York, London, and Houston. It also earned standing ovations at special previews held at the National Defence Academy and the Southern Command in Pune. (ANI) Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi are selling their home in the UK just a year after they bought it because they needed more space. Ellen Degeneres is selling her UK home because she needed more space The couple moved to Britain in 2024 and snapped up a 43-acre estate in the Cotswolds for 20 million, but they have now put the property on the market for 22.5 million because they needed to move to a bigger house to accommodate Portia's horses which they have flown over from the US. Ellen explained the decision in a statement given to the Wall Street Journal via realtors Sotheby's: "When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldnt live without her horses. "We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them. " The couple are believed to have already moved to another property with enough space for the horses while they wait for the six-bedroomed home to sell. The house in Oxfordshire boasts a two-bedroomed guest house as well as a swimming pool, gym and a "party barn" complete with its own pub. The publication reports the couple spent four and a half months renovating the property and only lived there for around four weeks before moving out. It comes after Ellen admitted she "loves" living in the UK. The couple had previously planned to only spend a few months in the country but soon decided to make the move permanent . Speaking to TV presenter Richard Bacon during her In Conversation with Ellen DeGeneres event at Cheltenhams Everyman theatre on July 20, Ellen explained: "It's absolutely beautiful. We're just not used to seeing this kind of beauty. The villages and the towns and the architecture - everything you see is charming and it's just a simpler way of life. "It's clean. Everything here is just better - the way animals are treated, people are polite. I just love it here. "We moved here in November, which was not the ideal time, but I saw snow for the first time in my life. We love it here." Ellen went on to explain they have moved Portia's beloved horses over from the US and they have expanded their animal menagerie. She added: "Portia flew her horses here, and I have chickens, and we had sheep for about two weeks." And to make Rahul Mishra's opening show more captivating, Bollywood actress Tamannaah Bhatia walked the runway donning exquisite pieces of his creativity. Tamannah served two stunning looks at the show, striking a perfect balance between modern wear and Indian traditional clothing. Initially, she walked the ramp in Rahul Mishra's body-hugging floral embroidered gown. For the glam, she opted for a dewy make-up and kept her hair wet and wavy. With her first look, Tamannaah undoubtedly channelled her inner diva, screaming pure hotness. When it comes to closing the show, she quickly underwent a transition from ''Pooh" to ''Pooh Bani Parvati" look. Tamannaah stole everyone's attention in a lehenga, flaunting Rahul Mishra's signature floral embroidery. She looked extremely gorgeous in an ivory lehenga that she paired with a matching halter-neck blouse. She did not forget to flash her million-dollar smile while walking in the second outfit. Her appearance at Rahul Mishra's show on day 1 of the Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 in association with Reliance brands, an FDCI Initiative, set the fashion mood right. Meanwhile, on the acting front, Tamannaah will be seen sharing screen space with Sidharth Malhotra in 'VVAN: Force of the Forrest'. (ANI) Actor Tamannaah Bhatia, who will soon be seen sharing screen space with Sidharth Malhotra in 'Vvan,' shared that she reached out to her co-star soon after hearing that the actor was blessed with a baby girl. Sidharth and his wife, actor Kiara Advani, welcomed their first child earlier this month. Speaking to ANI at India Couture Week, Tamannaah said she sent a message to the couple soon after hearing the news. The 'Stree 2' actor, also called Sidharth, and Kiara "the cutest couple", adding that she always wishes them the best. "I did message. And I think they both are just. That's the cutest couple ever. We always root for them. Both Kiara and Sid are just two amazing people." Sidharth and Kiara, while announcing the arrival of their baby girl in an adorable post on July 16, wrote, "Our hearts are full, and our world is forever changed. We are blessed with a baby girl." The couple tied the knot in an intimate yet grand ceremony in Rajasthan in February 2023. Their love story blossomed on the sets of the war drama Shershaah. Kiara publicly revealed her baby bump for the first time at the 2025 Met Gala. Meanwhile, the shooting for Tamannaah and Sidharth's starrer 'VVAN: Force of the Forest' began last month. Directed by Deepak Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, and produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R. Kapoor, and Arunabh Kumar, the film is a joint venture between Balaji Motion Pictures and The Viral Fever (TVF). Set in the dense, mythical heartlands of Central India, VVAN is rooted in Indian folklore and promises a gripping cinematic experience filled with ancient legends, hidden temples, and secrets buried deep within nature. The film is set to be released on May 15, next year. (ANI) During a hearing in Los Angeles, the doctor admitted to supplying four counts of illegal distribution of the drug, which is used as a prescription anaesthetic. Salvador Plasencia will face a statutory maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison for each count at his sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for December 3, the US Attorney's Office of the Central District of California said in a press statement, as per CNN. He has also been directed to surrender his medical license within the next 30-45 days, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. Plasencia took a plea deal in June in which he admitted to distributing ketamine without a legitimate medical purpose to the 'Friends' star, who died of an overdose in October 2023. In exchange, prosecutors dropped charges of falsifying medical records and additional counts of distribution, Variety reported. The lone remaining defendant in the case, Jasveen Sangha, nicknamed the "Ketamine Queen," is scheduled to face a trial next month. She is alleged to have maintained a stash house in North Hollywood for the illicit distribution of the drug. Plasencia faces a theoretical maximum of 40 years behind bars, but is likely to receive far less than that under federal sentencing guidelines. (ANI) Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Tuesday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his post on social media concerning the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President, saying it has "added to the mystery of his abrupt exit". Jairam Ramesh alleged that "kisanputra" has been denied even a dignified farewell". The Congress leader termed Dhankhar's resignation as "forced" "The PM's non-post on X regarding Shri Jagdeep Dhankar's forced resignation has only added to the mystery of his abrupt exit. Surely the PM could have been a bit more gracious--he is, after all, the supreme master of hypocrisy. The kisanputra is being denied even a dignified farewell," Ramesh said on X. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday wished Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar good health. "Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health," PM Modi said in post on X. Dhankhar resigned from his post on Monday evening "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice". He sent his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu."To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution," Dhankhar said in his letter. "I extend my deepest gratitude to Your Excellency - the Hon'ble President of India for her unwavering support and the soothing, wonderful working relationship we maintained during my tenure," he added. Dhankhar also expressed his deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the the Council of Ministers. "Prime Minister's cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office," he said. BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, who is a member of panel of vice-chairpersons, informed Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about acceptance of Dhankhar's resignation ."The Ministry of Home Affairs has, wide its notification, conveyed resignation of Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar under 67A of the Constitution with immediate effect," he said, amid din in the House. Opposition leaders have expressed surprise over Dhankhar's decision and said there "are far deeper reasons" for his resignation. The resignation came on the first day of monsoon session of Parliament. Government sources said that election of new Vice President will take place "as soon as possible". The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote and the voting in such election is by secret ballot. The Electoral College to elect a person to the office of the Vice-President consists of all members of both Houses of Parliament. An election to fill a vacancy caused by the expiry of the term of office of Vice-President is completed before the expiry of the term. In case a vacancy arises by reasons of death, resignation or removal or otherwise, the election to fill that vacancy is held as soon as possible after the occurrence. The person so elected is entitled to hold office for a full term of five years from the date he enters office. (ANI) BRS Working President KT Rama Rao criticised the Congress government in Telangana for discontinuing the KCR Kit scheme, accusing it of doing so merely because the program brings goodwill to former Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, according to the BRS PRO. Speaking at a special event held at Telangana Bhavan under the "Gift a Smile" initiative, KTR personally distributed KCR Kits to mothers and newborns from Hyderabad. Announcing the gesture on the occasion of his birthday, KTR stated that he would distribute 5,000 KCR Kits in Sircilla, particularly since many mothers have been suffering due to the suspension of the scheme for the past 20 months, as per BRS PRO. As per BRS PRO, recalling the days before 2014, KTR said, "People used to fear government hospitals. But due to revolutionary measures taken by KCR as Chief Minister, the public began trusting and preferring government hospitals for deliveries." He credited the KCR Kits for not only transforming public healthcare infrastructure but also reducing maternal and infant deaths. KTR called it shameful that the Revanth Reddy-led government has stopped distributing the KCR Kits, not due to a policy change but because of personal animosity and political malice toward KCR, the release stated. Earlier, on July 7, before his birthday, KTR announced that he would be distributing KCR Kits to 4,910 new mothers and babies in the Sircilla district on his upcoming birthday, July 24, as part of his annual 'Gift A Smile' campaign. In a post on X, KTR said, "This year, I want to focus on progress, on hope, and on life. There were 4910 institutional deliveries in the past 18 months in Sircilla district. Each scheme introduced by KCR garu is definitely life-changing. But if I have to pick a favourite, it will be the KCR Kit. What is more life-changing than life itself? So! We decided to distribute KCR Kits to all 4910 new mothers and babies." (ANI) Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi chaired a meeting with the Jammu and Kashmir party unit on Tuesday. After the meeting, Jammu and Kashmir party Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra told the media that, "... Today, Rahul Gandhi is the only ray of hope left in J&K..." Congress General Secretary Ghulam Ahmad Mir emphasised that there has been a dual power centre in Jammu and Kashmir, and the common man of the region is facing the brunt of its imbalance. "... It was from this Parliament that Jammu and Kashmir's rights and statehood were taken away. We have come to the same Parliament to request that they fulfil the promises they made... There is a dual power centre in Jammu and Kashmir, and the common man there is facing the brunt of its imbalance... We have come here to demand justice, not to beg," Ahmad Mir told the media. Meanwhile, Congress leaders on the second day of the Monsoon session of the Parliament severely criticised the government over the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala slammed the BJP following the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, stating that the party has a track record of "weakening both constitutional offices and processes". He noted that Dhankhar's "sudden and mysterious" resignation has left many questions unanswered and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take parliament into confidence on the matter. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday evening resigned from his post "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice." Dhankhar, who is also Chairman of Rajya Sabha, sent his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu. "The sudden and mysterious manner in which the Vice President resigned leaves many questions unanswered. The BJP has a track record of weakening both constitutional offices and processes. The BJP also has a track record of insulting constitutional officeholders and undermining the constitutional framework... What is visible and what is the reason are entirely different. We demand that Prime Minister Modi come forward and take the people of India and Parliament into confidence," Randeep Surjewala told ANI. (ANI) In a significant development in the custodial death case of Madappuram temple guard Ajith Kumar in Sivaganga district, the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court has ordered compensation for the victim's family. According to Maurice Kumar, the advocate representing the victim's family, the court had previously taken cognisance of the case and had awarded a compensation of Rs 40 lakhs. However, following opposition from the government, a division bench reduced the amount to Rs 25 lakhs. Advocate Kumar stated that the government had earlier submitted to the court that they had already paid Rs 7.5 lakhs to the victim's family, but this was rejected by the court. The matter has now been listed for further hearing to determine the remaining compensation amount. Furthermore, the CBI has taken over the investigation into the custodial death case. "Earlier, the court had taken cognisance of Ajith Kumar's custodial death case. The matter has been listed for hearing only to avoid compensation to the victim's family. The government submitted to the court that they had already paid Rs 7.5 lakhs to the victim's family. But the same was rejected by the court... The court awarded a compensation of Rs 40 lakhs to the victim's family, but after the opposition by the government, the division bench reduced the amount to Rs. 25 lakhs... The remaining compensation amount will be fixed in the next hearing... The CBI has also taken over the matter today...," Maurice Kumar, the victim's family advocate, told ANI. Earlier, the court had taken cognisance of Ajith Kumar's custodial death case. The matter has been listed for hearing only to avoid compensation to the victim's family. The government submitted to the court that they had already paid Rs 7.5 lakhs to the victim's family. But the same was rejected by the court," he added. Ajith Kumar, a security guard at the Madapuram Kaliamman temple in Tiruppuvanam in Sivaganga, was detained for questioning in connection with a theft. He later died, allegedly, while in police custody. The post-mortem report revealed 44 injuries on various parts of Kumar's body. As per the post-mortem report, the deceased Ajith Kumar sustained injuries to the forehead, right eyebrow, leg and wrist. Injuries on the left forearm, wrist and ankle were also reported in the Sivaganga custodial death case victim. Amid a political row over the case, Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) staged a protest on Sunday, demanding justice for Kumar. Hitting back at TVK, DMK leader TKS Elangovan on Monday said that TVK president Vijay should understand basic politics, pointing out that the actor criticises both state and central investigations without consistency. Speaking to ANI, DMK leader Elangovan said, "We have handed it over to the CBI, and here police people were involved and they were arrested. So if the state police investigate, Vijay will say they are doing their investigation on their own, and if the CBI investigates, he will say why will the CBI investigate...he should know basic politics." (ANI) Following the Duare Sarkar initiative, the Government of West Bengal has announced an initiative, titled "Amader Para, Amader Samadhan" (Our Neighbourhood, Our Solution), which aims to empower people at the grassroots to directly shape the future of their booths. The programme will commence on August 2. During her address at Nabanna on Tuesday, CM Banerjee said, "The Government of West Bengal has undertaken a new initiative, 'Amader Para, Amader Samadhan'. We are the first to take such an initiative nationwide. Our officials will be present on the ground to listen to the people's concerns." CM Banerjee further added, "Each centre will cover three booths, effectively forming one unit for a particular locality. The entire process will be done in a transparent manner. Since we have around 80,000 booths, it will take approximately two months to complete the entire programme. Officials will remain at each booth for an entire day. A designated space will be set up where villagers can come and share their concerns specific to the local area." The West Bengal CM further mentioned that the government will be spending over Rs 8,000 crore on this programme. "We have sanctioned a special fund for this initiative. An amount of Rs 10 lakh will be allocated for every booth. In total, the Government will be spending over Rs 8,000 crore on this programme. The programme will begin on August 2. A dedicated task force will be formed to monitor the programme, which will be headed by the Chief Secretary. Task forces will be constituted at both the district and State levels. The police will also be involved to ensure smooth coordination and implementation," CM Banerjee said. This initiative will allocate Rs 10 lakhs to each of the 80,000 booths. There will be camps to cover three booths in every locality, and citizens can submit grievances and documents online. Task forces at the state and district levels will be headed by the Chief Secretary. (ANI) AAP Delhi President Saurabh Bhardwaj has expressed skepticism over the sudden resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, hinting that there might be more to the story than meets the eye. Bhardwaj questioned the abrupt nature of Dhankhar's resignation, suggesting that the circumstances surrounding it are unusual and warrant further scrutiny. He also pointed to potential internal conflicts within the BJP, referencing ongoing discussions about the party's president and speculating whether these might be connected to Dhankhar's resignation. While talking to ANI, AAP Delhi President Saurabh Bhardwaj said, "It seems that what is being stated and the actual reason are different. For such a senior person to resign and the entire BJP to remain silent on it, and for the resignation to be accepted immediately, there must be something that happened behind the scenes. It appears that all is not well in the BJP. There have been talks about their President for months, but no decision has been made... Meanwhile, the sudden resignation of the Vice President... It's hard to believe. We don't know what the truth is, whether it will come to light or not." The Congress party members continue to pick holes in the resignation of former VP Jagdeep Dhankar from his position, citing health grounds. Prior to his resignation, opposition parties had submitted a notice to seek Dhankhar's removal, accusing him of bias towards the ruling party and stifling opposition voices in the Rajya Sabha. The opposition alleged that Dhankhar's actions as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha have undermined parliamentary debate and displayed a partisan attitude, favoring the ruling NDA coalition. Dhankhar, who is also Chairman of Rajya Sabha, sent his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday evening resigned from his post "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice." Earlier, Congress leader Randeep Surjewala also slammed the BJP following the resignation of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, stating that the party has a track record of "weakening both constitutional offices and processes". He noted that Dhankhar's "sudden and mysterious" resignation has left many questions unanswered and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring the matter to Parliament's attention. "The sudden and mysterious manner in which the Vice President resigned leaves many questions unanswered. The BJP has a track record of weakening both constitutional offices and processes. The BJP also has a track record of insulting constitutional officeholders and undermining the constitutional framework... What is visible and what is the reason are entirely different. We demand that Prime Minister Modi come forward and take the people of India and Parliament into confidence", Randeep Surjewala told ANI. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) Member of Parliament (MP) Mahua Maji stated that there should be clarity on Dhankhar's resignation, suggesting that he could have tendered his resignation after the conclusion of the Monsoon session. "This is very shocking for everyone. He could have resigned after the conclusion of the Monsoon session. Everyone is making assumptions regarding the reason behind Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar's resignation. There should be clarity on it," she said. (ANI) In a major crackdown on forest-related crimes, the Forest Department in Jammu and Kashmir's Bhaderwah has intensified its drive against timber smuggling and illegal logging. Over the last two months, officials have registered 52 Forest Offences Cases and seized 22 illegal mechanical cutters used for unauthorised tree felling. In addition to the machinery, dozens of illegally smuggled Deodar wood scants were also recovered during multiple operations carried out across Neeru and Chiralla Range Forest of Bhaderwah Division. These high-value timber logs were reportedly being transported in violation of forest regulations, pointing to the continued activity of the so-called forest mafia in the region. With environmental degradation and illegal logging posing serious ecological threats, authorities have assured that such enforcement drives will continue with full force in the coming months. Speaking to ANI, Divisional Forest Officer Bhaderwah, Devinder Kumar, said, "Our forest protection teams have remained on high alert not only during the day but also throughout the night. Continuous day and night patrolling was carried out across sensitive forest areas to curb illegal activities. In addition, we have established temporary nakkas (checkpoints) along known smuggling routes to intercept illegal timber movement." "Earlier, smugglers used basic tools like axes, but now they have shifted to mechanical cutters, which can fell trees in a matter of minutes. This poses a serious threat to our forest cover. Recognising the gravity of the situation, the buying and selling of mechanical cutters has been completely banned in Doda district," the DFO added. Kumar informed, "In the last two months alone, 52 forest offence cases have been registered under various sections of the Forest Act. We have seized 22 illegally used mechanical cutters and dozens of Deodar wood scants that were being smuggled. The Forest Division Bhaderwah is fully committed to enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against forest crimes and protecting our green cover at all costs." (ANI) Lindsay Lohan's two-year-old son is already making fun of her. Lindsay Lohan's son has started teasing her The Freakier Friday actress, 38, has toddler Luai with her husband Bader Shammas, and her boy has started "mocking" her when she tries to tell him not to do something. She told E! News: "I have this thing, where I'm like, 'Luai, don't do that.' "And this morning before I was going to say it, he's like, 'Don't do that, Luai,' and looked at me and I was like, 'Oh my god, he's mocking me.'" Lindsay still has over a decade to go until she has to deal with the teenage rebellion years like Jamie Lee Curtis' character did in the original Freaky Friday film. She added: "I'm not in that position with my son yet. He's still a toddler. [But] he runs! Fast, out of the house. He's like, 'Outside!' Gone." Despite the challenges of parenthood, being a mother has "changed" the Parent Trap star. Jamie said: "Her priorities have changed. her main priority is her little boy. "This is a new mom and all of the complications of a new mom. And so the priorities have changed, but the friendship hasn't." In March 2024, Lindsay reflected on the way her mindset has changed since becoming a mother for the first time. She explained to E! News at the time: "I want to do things that my son can see. But I also want to do things that inspire me. "It's a learning process I'm having a different go at it, figuring out what I want to do and how I want to do it." Lindsay, Bader and their son live in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and while she does return to New York and Los Angeles when she can, being back in LA with her boy makes her "stressed". She told the US issue of ELLE magazine: "Its hard in Los Angeles. Even taking my son to the park in Los Angeles, I get stressed. Im like, 'Are there cameras?' "In New York, theres no worry; no one bothers us. Everyone has their own thing going on. "Theres a different kind of energy in New York. Id rather have downtime in New York than I would in Los Angeles." The sacred festival of Sawan Shivratri is being celebrated with immense devotion across the country today, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, as thousands of devotees and Kanwar pilgrims gather at prominent Shiva temples to offer prayers and perform rituals. In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, special prayers are being conducted at the Shiv Temple of the Kailash Math. The city also witnessed massive footfall at the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India. Long queues of saffron-clad Kanwar pilgrims, many of whom had walked barefoot for days, lined the streets, waiting patiently to catch a glimpse of the deity and offer their prayers on this spiritually significant day. In Uttar Pradesh''s Baghpat, devotees flocked to the Shree Parshuram Pura Mahadev Mandir to offer their prayers. Devotees thronged the ancient premises from early morning, pouring holy water and milk over the Shivalinga, a ritual symbolic of purification and surrender to Lord Shiva. Meanwhile, in Prayagraj, the Shri Mankameshwar Mahadev Temple held a grand aarti ceremony, drawing a large number of devotees who participated in the rituals with folded hands seeking blessings and the fulfilment of their wishes. The spiritual celebrations of Sawan Shivratri also extended to Madhya Pradesh''s Ujjain, where the Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, came alive with special prayers and aarti performed in the early morning hours, with priests conducting elaborate rituals as per tradition. Sawan Shivratri, observed during the holy month of Sawan, is considered one of the most auspicious days for worshipping Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, visit temples, and chant Shiva mantras, believing that this day holds the power to absolve sins and fulfil heartfelt desires. This year, Sawan began on July 11 and will conclude on August 9. It is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest periods for devotees of Shiva. (ANI) Congress MP Manickam Tagore on Wednesday submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the voters' list revision being carried out by the Election Commission (EC) in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. In his notice, Tagore labelled the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise as "dangerous and unconstitutional". He accused the Narendra Modi government of "using" the election commission to "disenfranchise the poor and the marginalised communities in Bihar". "This House do adjourn to discuss the dangerous and unconstitutional moves by the Modi Government to use the Election Commission as a tool to systematically disenfranchise the poor, backward, Dalit, and marginalised communities in Bihar by means of the SIR mechanism, thereby violating the fundamental right to vote granted by the Constitution, as envisioned by Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar," the notice read. Tagore alleged that the SIR exercise was a move to revive colonial practices, where only property-owning classes had the right to vote, while the masses remained excluded. He claimed that the government's action reveals a "Manuwadi mindset". "This calculated disenfranchisement is reminiscent of colonial practices where only the rich and property-owning classes had the right to vote, while the masses were excluded. The current regime's actions reveal a Manuwadi mindset that seeks to reverse the democratic gains of social justice and universal adult franchise," Tagore said in his notice. The opposition has consistently raised the issue of SIR and is likely to target the ruling government in Parliament today. Several opposition MPs moved adjournment motion notices on Tuesday to discuss the SIR exercise happening in Bihar and its implications for the marginalised. The opposition is likely to protest at Makar Dwar, located within Parliament's premises, at 10:30 a.m., wearing black bands. Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced major disruptions on Tuesday, on the second day of the Monsoon Session, amid Opposition protest against the voters' list revision in Bihar. Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned till July 23. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will again meet at 11:00 AM today. (ANI) A case has been registered against a man in connection with the alleged assault of a female receptionist at a private clinic in Kalyan, Thane district, police said on Wednesday. Dr. Jitendra Gupta, associated with the hospital where the victim is being treated, condemned the incident, stating, "... A boy aggressively attacked the receptionist of a private clinic. No ordinary person can attack someone, especially a woman, in this manner. What he did is dangerous for society. The girl is undergoing treatment in our hospital..." The victim, Sonali, recounted the incident, saying, "My name is Sonali. A patient's relative, Gokul Jha, who is a relative of the patient, assaulted me when I informed him that his turn to meet the doctor had not yet come. He initially used abusive language and then physically attacked me. When bystanders threatened to file a complaint, he fled the scene." Rupali, the victim's elder sister, provided further detail. She said, "My elder sister, Rupali, works at a clinic. A patient's relative physically assaulted her after she informed him that his turn to meet the doctor had not yet come. He became enraged, used abusive language, and attacked her. She has been taken for an X-ray, and a CT scan has already been performed." Dr Rutaja Manohar, who is treating the patient, stated, "The patient has received all necessary treatments and medications. Once the patient's condition improves, we are planning to conduct MRI and HRCT scans, as the patient is experiencing abdominal pain, chest pain, and generalised body discomfort." Police are investigating the matter, and efforts are underway to apprehend the accused, who fled the scene following the incident. (ANI) Chandausi Circle Officer in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district, Anuj Chaudhary, has set up a camp in the area to provide basic amenities for the devotees (Kanwariyas) coming back from Haridwar during their yatra. Speaking to ANI, Anuj Chaudhary emphasised that the camp has all the basic facilities, including food and medical care. "The camp has been running for 3-4 days for all the devotees who are bringing the sacred water from Haridwar. Those who require medical attention, facilities have been provided. Arrangements for refreshments, drinking water, and medicines have been made for all of them here. This deployment has been there since the last 10 to 12 days. There is a separate deployment both inside and outside the temple premises, with cameras also installed. The route has also been diverted from the side from which the Kanwariyas are coming," CO Chaudhary said. Meanwhile, the administration in Bulandshahr has mounted a multi-layered security operation to ensure a peaceful and seamless passage for the pilgrims. With all pilgrimage routes now mapped into zones and sectors, and surveillance stepped up, officials say they are leaving no stone unturned to maintain order during one of the largest religious gatherings in northern India. On Sunday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged Kanwar yatris to expose elements masquerading as hooligans who aim to defame the holy yatra and inform the administration immediately. CM Adityanath warned that strict action will be taken against miscreants who try to disrupt the peace and harmony during the yatra. Speaking to the reporters, CM Adityanath said, "A few elements are making continuous attempts to harm and defame fervour and devotion. Even on social media platforms and even in person, such attempts are trying to defame Kanwar Yatra. It is also the responsibility of every Kanwar Sangh to expose all such elements masquerading as hooligans to defame this holy Yatra of Lord Shiv. Do not let them join you and inform the administration immediately. I appeal to all kanwariyas and everyone to understand others' problems too." The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During the annual pilgrimage, Kanwariyas collect holy water from rivers and carry it over hundreds of kilometres to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Devotees across the country observe fasts, perform rituals, and undertake the Yatra as a mark of devotion. 'Sawan' holds a special place in Hindu mythology. Devotees undertake fasts and offer prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during this period. The chanting of Shiva mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and performing Rudrabhishek (ceremonial bathing of Shiva Lingam with holy substances) are common practices observed with fervour across households and temples during the 'Sawan' month. This year, Sawan month commences from July 11 and will conclude on August 9. (ANI) Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday took a jibe at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, questioning the absence of a formal farewell and urging BJP leaders to check on his well-being. Speaking to the reporters, SP president Yadav said, "The people from BJP should go check on him. We're hearing there's no farewell happening either; if there was a farewell, we would all go, thank him, inquire about his health, and honour him." The SP chief also criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, alleging that the exercise was politically motivated and aimed at helping the BJP. "The moment you try to get information about the Uttar Pradesh by-election, the Election Commission will get exposed. It is the duty of the ECI to ensure that the voters cast their votes without any issues. In this BJP Govt, we are seeing for the first time that you will not be allowed to cast your votes... You can understand how difficult it is to create a new voter's list in Bihar," he added. Yadav also questioned the timing and scale of the voter list revision in Bihar. He said, "There are around 8 crore voters in the state. They are doing this difficult task because they know that they are going to lose this time. They know that Tejashwi Yadav, Congress and the INDIA alliance are going to defeat them. The public is aware that Nitish Kumar will retire as the Chief Minister now." His remarks came amid continued protests by the Opposition in Parliament over the SIR voter list revision. The issue led to major disruptions on the second day of the Monsoon Session. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned till July 23, as Opposition members demanded a detailed discussion on the matter. Earlier in the day, Lok Sabha was first adjourned till 12 pm, minutes after it began. It was again adjourned till 2 pm soon after it reconvened, as Opposition members continued their protest. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised the Opposition for disrupting proceedings. He said the government was open to discussions, but the protests were causing a waste of public funds. "They (opposition) are demanding discussion, and we are ready for it. Then why are they not allowing the House to function? This double standard is wrong. If you want discussion, then do not create a ruckus. The government has said that we are ready for discussion. You are wasting public money..." Rijiju said. BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, who was chairing the Lok Sabha, also objected to Opposition members holding placards in the House. "Instead of showing placards, you can submit your proposals, resolutions, and the business advisory committee will consider them. Speakers will give time, and the government will respond. Why are you worried?" Pal said while adjourning the session. Meanwhile, similar scenes unfolded in the Rajya Sabha, where Opposition MPs raised slogans demanding a discussion on the electoral roll revision in Bihar. Outside Parliament, several senior leaders, including Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, staged a protest at Makar Dwar, criticising the SIR exercise. They carried posters and placards with messages like "stealing of Indian rights" and "death of democracy," demanding that the voter revision process in Bihar be stopped. The Opposition has also continued to press for discussions on the Pahalgam terrorist attack and India's response through Operation Sindoor. (ANI) All four accused in Kolkata law college rape case - Manojit Mishra, Zaib Ahmed, Pramit Mukhopadhyay and campus security guard Pinaki Banerjee have been remanded to judicial custody till August 5 by the Alipore ACJM court. All of them produced in court on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Manojit Mishra's lawyer, Raju Ganguly raised concerns about his client's treatment in custody, alleging that Mishra is being denied basic necessities like proper food and water. Ganguly also claims that Mishra is being pressured to confess to the crime. Ganguly stated that Mishra is not being provided with adequate food and water while in custody, which is affecting his health and well-being. The lawyer alleged that Mishra is being coerced into admitting to the crime, which could potentially compromise his defense. Ganguly pleaded with the court to arrange for a mosquito net, books, and paper for Mishra, citing his fundamental rights as a prisoner. "He is being forced to admit his crime in front of the magistrate. We have put 38 applications. We have mentioned the name of two lawyers that when Manojit is interrogated in Court that day, our two advocates will be present. This application is allowed. Under Article 21 we have said that he requires basic facilities in jail, like a blanket and, mosquito net. This application has also been allowed. He has been sent to judicial custody till August 5. The third application is that when he is brought to lock up, we do not get enough time to talk to him. We have requested that the jailer give us two to three hours to talk to him, and that has been allowed," he added. Raju Ganguly said, "Today we represented Manojit Mishra. We submitted 3 applications before the court, which did not include a bail application. We have repeatedly stated that we will continue to assist the prosecution... During interrogation in jail, pressure is being put on him to admit that he committed this crime." However, Kolkata Police Chief Prosecutor Sourin Ghoshal contradicted Ganguly's statement, saying that the defense did file a bail petition. Ghoshal added that the defense's applications included a request to allow them to interview their client in jail and to visit the crime scene in police presence. Sourin Ghoshal said, "Those people filed 3 petitions on behalf of the accused. By filing the first petition, they said that you should tell the jailer that lawyers will come and conduct an interview, so arrangements should be made for this. We said that this power rests with the jailer West Bengal Correctional Homes Act. The second petition was they demanded some facilities for the accused, and we said that this would also be facilitated by the jailer. They had given a bail petition, but he has been sent to judicial custody. We will try to give the chargesheet soon." All four accused arrested in the case of the alleged gang rape of a law student at the law college in Kolkata's Kasba area on June 25. Earlier on July 10, the West Bengal government submitted a sealed progress report on the alleged rape of a 24-year-old Law student to the Calcutta High Court.The state also produced the case diary before a division bench comprising Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Smita Das De, which reviewed the victim's statement under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nyay Samhita (BNS) and the medical records. The court directed that a copy of the progress report be handed to the victim's advocate, strictly barring its disclosure without prior court permission. The victim's family, through counsel, expressed satisfaction with the investigation led by Kolkata Police's SIT. The police also filed a report explaining why local officers allegedly failed to act on earlier threats against the victim. The incident took place on June 25, when a student was allegedly gangraped inside the South Calcutta Law College in the Kasba area of Kolkata. (ANI) Manipur Police arrested three active cadres of banned outfit, People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak PREPAK (Pro), from their locality of residence in Imphal West District on Tuesday. In a post on X Manipur Police shared, "On 22.07.2025, Manipur Police arrested an active cadre of PREPAK (Pro), one Wangkhem Amarjit Meitei alias Tang alias Lamyanba (31) of Chingmeirong Maning Leikai, Lamphel PS, Imphal West District, from the locality of his residence." Manipur Police further shared that from his disclosure, two other cadres were also arrested from their respective residences. "Laishram Pangamba Meitei alias Mexico (31) of Haorang Keirel Makha Leikai, Lamshang PS, Imphal West District and Khangenbam Ricky Meitei alias Yaiphaba (27) of Lamshang Taothong Ayungba Mamang Leikai, Lamshang PS, Imphal West District. From their possession, 02 (two) nos. of mobile phones and 03 (three) nos. of wallets were seized," the police further shared. Manipur Police said that during the last 24 hours, the overall law-and-order situation in the state was normal. Security forces conducted search operations and area domination in the fringe and vulnerable areas across districts in Manipur. The security forces arrested four active cadres of UPPK from Koirengei Chingol Leikai area and three active cadres of KCP from Indo Myanmar Border on Monday according to press release. In two operations conducted in the general area of Tingkai Khullen village, Kangpokpi district and the general area of Maohing village and Changoubung village, Kangpokpi district, on July 21, security forces recovered weapons, explosives, arms and ammunition. The police recovered one INSAS rifle with magazine, one 303 rifle, T/Sight with magazine, one local made lathode, one .32 pistol with magazine, four local made bolt action rifles, two canon pumpis, one M16 rifle, one MA1 assault rifle, one sniper rifle, one .32 bore pistol, seven single barrel rifles, four bolt action rifles, six pull mech rifles, two improvised mortars and four tube launchers. Ammunition recovered includes fifty .303 ammunition, two lathode shells, ten 12 mm rounds (bolt action), two pumpi shells, one 84mm RL HE round, sixty one 7.62 mm AK blank rounds, seven single barrel blank rounds and twenty-three 7.62 mm SLR blank rounds. Security forces also recovered four hand grenades. They also recovered two Baofeng wireless sets, two BP plates, two hand held radio sets, two No. 36 hand grenade arming rings, four No. 36 hand grenade detonators, one sniper rifle magazine, and one .32 bore pistol magazine. Intelligence-based combing operations and cordon and search operations were carried out extensively to nab those involved in extortion and criminal activities in the state. Security forces arrested four active cadres of UPPK from Koirengei Chingol Leikai area in Imphal East district. They were identified as Nishan Ngangbam alias Tamngakpa (24) of Khumbong Mayai Leikai, Imphal West district, Laishangbam Roshan Singh alias Yaibi (35) of Churachandpur Khuga Tampak Meitei Leikai, a/p Langol Game Village, Zone-1, Imphal West district, Chungkham Kiran Meitei alias Lepsinba (21) of Khumbong Mayai Leikai, Imphal West district and Chandam Ratan Meitei alias Lion (41) of Koirengei Bazar, Imphal East district. (ANI) A man has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad for his alleged involvement in a looting case, police said on Wednesday. Another accused in the case has been injured in retaliatory firing by the police and was admitted to a hospital for treatment, Rural Firozabad Superintendent of Police (SP) Trigun Vishen said. "An incident of looting occurred with a collection agent in the region under Khairgarh police station on July 3. Accused in the matter has been arrested and sent to jail, and one other accused, Robin, resident of Ram Garh, has been admitted to the hospital," SP Vishen said in a video message. The official informed that the police reached the spot to arrest another accused, who fired on the team and was injured after the police resorted to retaliation. "Information about his location was received, and when the police reached the spot, the accused fired on the team. The accused got injured after the police retaliated. A pistol, a live and a used cartridge and some cash have been recovered from the accused, and he has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. Legal action is being taken," the SP said. In another incident, a joint team of the Special Operations Group (SOG) Yamunapar Zone and Kaundhiyara Police on Tuesday arrested two individuals and recovered over 13.55 kilograms of illegal cannabis from their possession in Prayagraj, police said. According to police officials, the arrests were made near Kaitha Pulia in the Kaundhiyara police station area following a tip-off received during a routine checking operation. The accused have been identified as Jogendra Singh Chauhan (20) and Sharda Prasad Kesarwani (19), both residents of Prayagraj.In addition to the narcotics, police also seized a motorcycle used for transporting the contraband. A case has been registered under the NDPS Act at Kaundhiyara Police Station, Commissionerate Prayagraj. Further legal proceedings are underway. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to freedom fighters Chandra Shekhar Azad and Lokmanya Tilak on their birth anniversary, lauding their unparalleled valour and significant contributions to India's independence movement. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1947865653005697500 In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. He epitomised unparalleled valour and grit. His role in India's quest for freedom is deeply valued and motivates our youth to stand up for what is just, with courage and conviction." Paying tribute to Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary, Modi commended his unwavering conviction and belief in the power of knowledge and service to others. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1947865390350008409 "Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of India's freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others," he posted on X. Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born in 1856, and Chandra Shekhar Azad in 1906. Tilak is well known for promoting Swaraj, meaning self-rule, across the nation during the British regime. He also fearlessly challenged the Britishers with his pen and started two weeklies, 'Kesari' and 'Mahratta'. Scholar, mathematician, philosopher, and passionate nationalist Bal Gangadhar Tilak played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for India's independence by transforming his opposition to British rule into a powerful movement. He was the president of the Indian Home Rule League when it was created in 1914. He and Mohammed Ali Jinnah signed the Lucknow Pact in 1916, ensuring Hindu-Muslim cooperation in the nationalist movement. Chandrasekhar Azad was a revolutionary who formed and oversaw a group of young people involved in the freedom movement. Azad was instrumental in reorganising the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) following the deaths or imprisonments of the majority of its members. Known for his zeal to fight against the British government in India, Azad was the one who, in August 1925, pulled the emergency chain of the train from Shahjahanpur to Lucknow and looted the cash that was being transported. He was famous for his new phases of revolutionary activism against the British authorities. Born in Madhya Pradesh on July 23, 1906, Azad was killed in Allahabad on February 27, 1931, following a police encounter. Chandrashekhar Azad was inspired to fight for the country from a very young age and participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement at just 15 years old. He's famous for his slogan, "We will face the bullets of enemies. We were free and we will remain free." (ANI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad and Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak on their birth anniversary, Posting the tribute on X, Kharge quoted Azad on religious tolerance, "I believe in a religion that teaches equality and brotherhood." https://x.com/kharge/status/1947851782853693538 "On the birth anniversary of the great revolutionary, the immortal martyr Chandra Shekhar Azad, a brave son of Mother India who sacrificed his life for the freedom of the motherland, we pay our respectful homage to him," the Congress chief's post added. Payin homage to Tilak, Kharge's post, with the words of the freedom fighter, read "If your thoughts are just, your goals are honest, and your efforts are constitutional, then I have full faith that your success is certain.""On the birth anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of India's freedom movement, shaped nationalism in its truest Indian essence, dedicated his life to the Congress, founded the Indian Home Rule League, and was a great social reformer, we offer our humble tributes to him," his post added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the freedom fighters. "Tributes to Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. He epitomised unparalleled valour and grit. His role in India's quest for freedom is deeply valued and motivates our youth to stand up for what is just, with courage and conviction," the Prime Minister wrote on X. Paying a tribute to Tilak in another post, PM Modi added, "Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of India's freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others." Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born in 1856. Scholar, mathematician, philosopher, and passionate nationalist, Tilak helped create the framework for India's independence by turning his opposition to British rule into a movement. He was the president of the Indian Home Rule League when it was created in 1914. He and Mohammed Ali Jinnah signed the Lucknow Pact in 1916, ensuring Hindu-Muslim cooperation in the nationalist movement. Chandra Shekhar Sitaram Tiwari, famously known as Chandrasekhar Azad, was born in 1906 and hailed from the Unnao district in the erstwhile United Provinces under British rule. He was the leader of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). Azad had taken over the organisation after the death of its founder, Ram Prasad Bismil, another freedom fighter who was hanged by the British in 1927. Chandrashekhar Azad was inspired to fight for the country from a very young age and was just 15 when he participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement. He's famous for his slogan, "We will face the bullets of enemies. We were free and we will remain free." (ANI) What started as a quirky moment during Coldplays Jumbotron Song at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts has spiralled into a fullblown internet phenomenon, now known as Coldplaygate. Coldplay During one of the stadiums light-hearted camera scans, the lens lingered on a couple - later identified by online sleuths as Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and his Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot - caught in a cosy embrace. The pairs startled reaction - her flinch and hand covering her face, his duck to escape view - prompted frontman Chris Martin to say, Either theyre having an affair or theyre just very shy. With the former being true. Online detectives, fake statements, and real consequences Within hours, the clip exploded across social media. Internet detectives claimed to have identified both individuals, though their identities remained unofficial, and a parody statement attributed to Byron circulated before being deemed fake. Amid the chaos, Astronomer confirmed via LinkedIn that Byron was placed on leave and ultimately resigned, while Cabot quietly removed her LinkedIn presence. The internet responds - and memes explode Memes erupted in every direction. Some painted the duo into classic artworks and scenes - Edvard Munchs The Scream, Greek pottery illustrations. Meanwhile, others just had punchy statements such as, Coldplay hasnt made a single in years. Last night they made two. Coldplay leans into the drama The ripple effect has reached beyond reaction GIFs. Coldplay themselves havent shied away from the drama. At a later gig, Martin warned the crowd about the Jumbotron Song, jokingly suggesting people should check their makeup. Elsewhere, even Liam Gallagher chimed in at an Oasis concert, assuring fans that the kiss cam was none of their f**king business. The meme is everywhere, the faces have become infamous, and Coldplaygate joins the long list of unexpected viral sensations. Whether it fades or sticks around, one things certain: the next time a camera hovers your way at a concert, brace yourself. MORE FROM NICOLE POWELL: Selena Gomez turns 33: Top 10 moments from the birthday girl Rajya Sabha MP Jebi Mather Hisham on Wednesday submitted an Adjournment Motion, seeking a discussion on the concerns surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. In her letter to the Secretary General of Rajya Sabha, Hisham raised apprehensions over the actions of the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging that the exercise had triggered fears of disenfranchisement among marginalised communities due to the absence of adequate safeguards and transparency. She also highlighted the relevance of the issue in the context of the forthcoming elections in Kerala and other states. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MPs Akhilesh Prasad Singh, Syed Naseer Hussain, Ranani Ashokrao Patil, and Ranjeet Ranjan also submitted Adjournment Motions urging the House to take up the issue of SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar as a matter of urgent public importance. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sushmita Dev also moved an Adjournment Motion to discuss the ongoing issue of SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar. In her letter to the Secretary General, Dev accused the government of using the Election Commission to implement an "exclusionary agenda" aimed at stripping voting rights under the guise of electoral list revision. She further stated that the exercise "threatened" to disenfranchise two crore voters and particularly targeted the poor, migrants and marginalised communities by demanding documents such as the parental birth certificate, domicile proof and other records which most citizens did not possess. "Even widely accepted identity documents like Aadhaar and ration cards were initially excluded from the verification process and even after a widespread public outcry, the Election Commission is reiterating the same. The exercise, being conducted during monsoon floods and peak migration season, makes it logistically unrealistic for lakhs of citizens to comply, raising serious apprehensions that this is a mechanism to exclude lakhs of voters rather than a genuine electoral update," the letter further read. (ANI) After the first two days of Monsoon Session of the Parliament, proving to be unproductive, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Jagannath Sarkar on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the Opposition for wasting public money and not allowing discussions. Speaking to ANI, Sarkar said that the opposition parties are responsible for whether the House functions or not. "The government is always active, but all the MPs of the INDIA bloc are making an uproar, and hence all the expenses of the public are getting wasted. No discussion is taking place. They are responsible for all this, whether they will let the house function," the BJP MP said. Earlier on Tuesday, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced major disruptions on the second day of the Monsoon Session amid Opposition protest over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls being undertaken by the Election Commission (EC) in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will again meet at 11 am today. Lok Sabha was first adjourned till 12 pm, minutes after it convened. The Lower House was adjourned again till 2 pm, shortly after it reconvened amid opposition protest. Targeting the opposition for creating ruckus in the House, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said that the government is ready for discussion, but the Opposition is "wasting public money" by indulging in protest. "They (opposition) are demanding discussion and we are ready for it. Then why are they not allowing the House to function? This double standard is wrong. If you want discussion, then do not create ruckus. The government has said that we are ready for discussion. You are wasting public money....," Rijiju said. Similarly, in the Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs raise slogans, demanding a discussion on the revision of the electoral roll in Bihar. Multiple leaders, including Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, stood at the steps of Parliament at Makar Dwar and protested against the Bihar SIR, calling for the exercise to be halted. They were seen carrying posters condemning the revision exercise, holding placards calling it a "stealing of Indian Rights," "death of democracy," and more. The issue of Bihar SIR has been a contentious one with the INDIA bloc MPs demanding a discussion on it in the Parliament. The Opposition has also demanded discussions on the Pahalgam terrorist attack and India's response through Operation Sindoor. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Police arrested a miscreant following a brief encounter in Mathura on Tuesday night. The accused, who sustained a gunshot injury to his leg during the exchange of fire, has been admitted to the district hospital for treatment, officials said. Mathura Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Bhushan Verma said the police received a tip-off about the presence of a wanted miscreant near Dholi Pyav Railway Ground on the night of July 22. Upon reaching the location, the accused opened fire on the police party, prompting retaliatory action. "On the night of July 22, an informer informed about the presence of a miscreant near Dholi Pyav Railway Ground. The police immediately surrounded him. The miscreant fired on the police party. The police also fired in retaliation, injuring the miscreant in the leg. He was identified as Nikhil, also known as Nikki. He was involved in the incident, which took place on July 18, in which he fired at a person. A case of attempted murder was registered by the police. Today, a pistol, two empty cartridges and two live cartridges were recovered from him. The injured accused has been sent to the district hospital for treatment," Mathura DSP Bhushan Verma said. Police recovered a pistol, two empty cartridges, and two live cartridges from his possession. In a separate incident in Firozabad, police arrested one person in connection with a loot case and injured another during an encounter. Rural Firozabad Superintendent of Police (SP) Trigun Vishen said that the loot incident occurred on July 3, involving a collection agent in the Khairgarh police station area. "An incident of looting occurred with a collection agent in the region under Khairgarh police station on July 3. Accused in the matter has been arrested and sent to jail, and one other accused, Robin, resident of Ram Garh, has been admitted to the hospital," SP Vishen said in a video message. He added that upon receiving information about Robin's whereabouts, the police reached the location where the accused opened fire. Police retaliated, injuring him. A pistol, a live cartridge, a used cartridge, and some cash were recovered from the accused. "Information about his location was received, and when the police reached the spot, the accused fired on the team. The accused got injured after the police retaliated. A pistol, a live and a used cartridge and some cash have been recovered from the accused, and he has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. Legal action is being taken," the SP said. (ANI) Congress MP Imran Masood has raised concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, questioning the rapid execution of the exercise. Speaking to ANI, Masood alleged, "What kind of formula or technique do they have that they managed to complete this in just one month? This raises suspicion. They aim to deprive tribals, Dalits, backwards classes, and Muslims of their voting rights by removing their names from voter lists." Masood further accused certain forces of attempting to undermine democracy, stating, "They want to steer the country toward a system where 10% of the population rules, and 90% are reduced to slaves. We will fight till the end to protect democracy." The Congress MP's remarks come amid ongoing debates over the SIR process, with opposition parties alleging irregularities in voter list revisions. The SIR process has also been questioned by members of the ruling alliance, JDU MP Giridhari Yadav alleged that the SIR has been imposed forcefully. "Election Commission has no practical knowledge. It neither knows the history nor the geography of Bihar. It took 10 days for me to collect all the documents. My son stays in America. How will he do the signatures in just a month? This (SIR) has been imposed on us forcefully. At least 6 months' time should have been given for this... I am giving my personal opinion. It doesn't matter what the party is saying... This is the truth. If I can't say the truth, why have I become an MP?" he said. Meanwhile, both Houses of Parliament witnessed repeated disruptions on Tuesday, the second day of the Monsoon Session, amid protests by the Opposition over the SIR exercise. Several opposition MPs have submitted notices to move adjournment motions in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to discuss the issue. In the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Manickam Tagore submitted a notice to move an adjournment motion to discuss the SIR and its "threat to democratic rights." In the Rajya Sabha, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh also submitted a motion seeking discussion on the "constitutional and electoral implications" of the revision process. Amid the protests, both Houses were adjourned till July 23. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha will again meet at 11 am on Wednesday. (ANI) Allegedl accused in the Varnika Kundu 2017 stalking case, Vikas Barala, son of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, has been appointed as the Assistant Advocate General (AG) in Haryana on Wednesday. Barala's appointment was announced along with more than 80 other appointments for the post of Deputy AG, Additional AG and other Assistant AGs. Vikas Barala is the son of Bharatiya Janata Party Rajya Sabha MP and former Haryana chief of the party, Subhash Barala. Vikas Barala has been accused of allegedly stalking and attempting to kidnap senior IAS officer's daughter Varnika Kundu in 2017. Barala was granted bail on January 11, 2018 and the trial has been inconclusive till today. The trial in the case is continuing and according to reports the next date of hearing in the case is August 2. Subhash Barala has been a member of Rajya Sabha representing Haryana since 2024. He was also the president of the Haryana BJP from 2014-2020. The incident, which took place on August 4, 2017, created a ruckus across the country, when Kundu accused Vikas and his friend of following her car in the middle of the night in Chandigarh. The two men were then arrested on the basis of her complaint but were released on bail, as they were booked under bailable sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Motor Vehicles Act. The accused were arrested again on August 9, 2017, under sections 365 (Kidnapping or abducting with intent secretly and wrongfully to confine person) and 511 (attempt to commit punishable offence) of the Indian Penal Code The Chandigarh court on October 13, 2017 had framed charges on Barala on charges of stalking and attempting to kidnap the senior IAS officer's daughter. (IPC). In January 2018, the Punjab and Haryana High Court granted bail to Vikas Barala. Speaking after being release on bail, Vikas had claimed innocence, "When you know you are innocent, and have not done anything wrong, you do not fear anything. My unflinching faith in God and concern for my family's honour saw me through the five months I spent in custody." (ANI) Congress chief and Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday expressed scepticism over the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President, suggesting that there's something not quite right with his decision. Speaking to the media, Kharge reiterated that the government should put forward the reasons behind Dhankhar's resignation. "The government should answer why he resigned. I can see 'dal mein kuch kaala hai.' His health is fine. He used to defend RSS and BJP always. Who and what is behind his resignation should be known to the country," Mallikarjun Kharge said. Earlier today, Congress MP and Deputy Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his remarks on Dhankhar's resignation, alleging that the Prime Minister's comments highlighted the political nature of the resignation. In a post on X, Gogoi wrote, "The dignity of a Constitutional post should be maintained both in it's role of a Presiding Officer and in it's resignation. PM Modi's tweet has revealed the political nature of the resignation." On Tuesday, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his post on social media concerning the resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar as Vice President, saying it has "added to the mystery of his abrupt exit". Jairam Ramesh alleged that "kisanputra" has been denied even a "dignified farewell". "The PM's non-post on X regarding Shri Jagdeep Dhankar's forced resignation has only added to the mystery of his abrupt exit. Surely the PM could have been a bit more gracious--he is, after all, the supreme master of hypocrisy. The kisanputra is being denied even a dignified farewell," Ramesh said on X. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday wished Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar good health. "Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji has got many opportunities to serve our country in various capacities, including as the Vice President of India. Wishing him good health," PM Modi said in a post on X. Dhankhar resigned from his post on Monday evening "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice". BJP MP Ghanshyam Tiwari, a member of the panel of vice-chairpersons, informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday about the acceptance of Dhankhar's resignation. "The Ministry of Home Affairs has, wide its notification, conveyed resignation of Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar under 67A of the Constitution with immediate effect," he said, amid din in the House. Opposition leaders have expressed surprise over Dhankhar's decision and said there "are far deeper reasons" for his resignation. The resignation came on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. Voting in such elections is by secret ballot. The Electoral College to elect a person to the office of the Vice-President consists of all members of both Houses of Parliament. An election to fill a vacancy caused by the expiry of the term of office of Vice-President is completed before the expiry of the term. In case a vacancy arises by reason of death, resignation, removal or otherwise, the election to fill that vacancy is held as soon as possible after the occurrence. The person so elected is entitled to hold office for a full term of five years from the date he enters office. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh police apprehended a man and woman with 4 kilograms of ganja, and action is being taken against other individuals involved in this crime, Additional DCP, Crime Branch Bhopal said on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Additional DCP, Crime Branch, Shailendra Singh Chauhan said, "Under the awareness campaign being run by Crime Branch Bhopal against narcotic substances, continuous action is being taken. Narcotic substances include ganja and alcohol. Recently, we have apprehended a woman and a man with 4 kilograms of ganja. This was being brought from Odisha. The investigation of the case is ongoing. Action will also be taken against other individuals involved in this gang." He further said that police got information about a large stock of alcohol kept in Ghumti. "10 boxes of alcohol have been seized. We have identified one accused, Shubham, and he has been caught. We have received some inputs regarding the smuggler and from whom it was brought. We are verifying the information in this regard. We will take action against them as well. This campaign against drugs will continue. Action has been taken against more than three dozen people. Ganja over 2 kg has been seized. 40 to 50 grams of MD have been caught. We have caught about 400 litres of liquor," he further said. Earlier, Madhya Pradesh Police on July 15 launched a 15-day statewide anti-drug awareness campaign "Nashe Se Doori - Hai Zaroori" aiming to make the public aware about the effects of drug abuse, according to an official release. Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana formally inaugurated the campaign by unveiling the campaign poster and reading out a message issued by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav at the Police Headquarters in Bhopal. The campaign will run from July 15 to July 30 across all districts of the state, it added. Speaking at the launch, DGP Makwana said that the initiative, inspired by the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, is being run by the state police to prevent drug addiction in society. "The word 'drugs' brings to mind a weak body, intoxicated eyes, and darkness. Drug addiction is destroying the young generation and their families. The top political leadership of the country and the state is also concerned about the serious problem and is making efforts to resolve it," the release read. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Wednesday called Samajwadi Party (SP) and its chief Akhilesh Yadav "Nawaazwadi" while accusing him and his party of not having faith in the constitution. His remarks follow Akhilesh Yadav's apparent meeting inside a mosque on Parliament Street in New Delhi. He stated that the Indian constitution doesn't permit the use of religious places for political purposes. "Samajwadi Party chief and Samajwadi Party always violate the constitution. The Indian Constitution states that religious places cannot be used for political purposes. They do not have faith in the constitution. 'Woh hamesha Namaazwadi bane rehte hai' and that is what he is doing," Pathak told ANI. Reacting to this, SP MP Rajeev Rai said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should instead address the viral videos of its leaders. "Do we have to take a license from BJP to visit temples and mosques now? Should we make BJP's photos viral? They don't speak about the videos and photos of their leaders coming in from the streets," Rai told ANI. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav stated that the BJP wishes to keep people divided. He said that faith connects, but the ruling party in the centre doesn't want that to happen. "Faith connects...However, the BJP wants people to stay divided, not united. We have faith in all faiths...BJP's tool is religion," Yadav told reporters. As this happened, BJP Minority Morcha National President Jamal Siddiqui lashed out at the Samajwadi Party and its MP, Mohibullah Nadvi, for turning the mosque into their party's office. Nadvi serves as the Imam of the Parliament Street Mosque. "You can see many SP MPs from the SP President. Rampur MP Mohibullah Nadvi is also present among them. Mohibullah Nadvi used to do the Imam's prayer in this mosque. But he is not ready to leave the mosque. Today it has crossed all limits! He made the mosque his party's office. We strongly condemn this," Siddiqui said in a statement. He said that they will demand that Delhi Minister Rekha Gupta and the Delhi Waqf Board to remove Rampur MP Mohibullah Nadvi from the responsibility of the Imam of Parliament Street mosque and take strict action against him. Siddiqui said that the BJP Minority Morcha will hold a protest against Akhilesh Yadav and his MP on July 25, after Friday prayers. (ANI) Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday questioned United States President Donald Trump's repeated assertions about brokering a peace between India and Pakistan. "Why is he saying it so many times?" said Rahul Gandhi on Trump's repeated claims. Earlier today, Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh lambasted the Narendra Modi government over its refusal to rebut the claims made by US President Donald Trump of announcing a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan. He said that the claims of a "ceasefire" made by Trump have reached their silver jubilee with the US president reiterating them 25 times in the last 73 days. The Congress leader attacked the centre for not providing a definite date for discussing the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor that followed. "As the Modi government continues in its refusal to give firm dates for a debate on Pahalgam-Sindoor in Parliament and as the Modi government persists in its refusal to commit to a reply by the PM in the debate, President Trump reaches the silver jubilee, the quarter century mark on his claims. He has trumpeted 25 times in the last 73 days, but the Prime Minister of India is totally quiet - finding time only to travel abroad and to destabilise democratic institutions at home," Ramesh, General Secretary incharge of Communications in Congress, posted on X. Ramesh was responding to a recent statement made by Donald Trump, where he repeated his claims of "stopping the war between India and Pakistan" in the name of trade deals. "We have stopped wars between India and Pakistan. They were probably going to end up in a nuclear war. They shot down five planes in the last attack. It was back and forth, back and forth. I called them and I said no more trade if you do this. They are both powerful nuclear nations. Who knows where that would have ended up, and I stopped it," Trump said. The opposition leaders have been demanding that the Prime Minister address both houses and the nation on crucial issues, including the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack and the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise being carried out by the Election Commission in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The opposition has also demanded that PM Modi respond to the repeated claims made by US President Donald Trump of initiating "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor. (ANI) Just before the commencement of the third day of the parliament session, the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) MPs on Wednesday continued their protest for the second day at Parliament's Makar Dwar against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) being conducted by the Election Commission (EC) in poll bound Bihar, demanding to halt the revision exercise and alleging that voting rights of people are being stripped away. Multiple leaders, including Lok Sabha's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Deputy party leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi, Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi and Manickam Tagore, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, and multiple other leaders were present. The party leaders chanted slogans "Save our Democracy", "Save our Constitution," while holding placards calling for the SIR to be stopped. Earlier on Tuesday, the INDIA bloc MPs had launched their protest against the Bihar SIR, with the same leaders gathering at Makar Dwar. The issue of Bihar SIR has been a contentious one with INDIA bloc MPs demanding a discussion on it in the parliament. Opposition leaders have moved adjournment motion notices in both lower and upper houses to discuss various issues of public importance, including the special intensive revision (SIR) being carried out by the Election Commission (EC) in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Earlier, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari criticised the SIR, calling it a "conspiracy" which has come to light, alleging an unprecedented removal of names from voter list is taking place. "We are all protesting, their conspiracy has come to light, never before have so many names been removed before an election. This is an attempt by the BJP to murder democracy, like in Haryana and Maharashtra, we will knock on every door against it. But we will not let the BJP snatch away the right to vote," Tiwari told ANI. Congress MP Manickam Tagore, who is also present at the protest, submitted an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the voters' list revision. In his notice, Tagore labelled the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise as "dangerous and unconstitutional" and accused the Narendra Modi-led government of "using" the election commission to "disenfranchise the poor and the marginalised communities in Bihar". Rajya Sabha MP Jebi Mather Hisham submitted an Adjournment Motion, seeking a discussion on the concerns surrounding the SIR ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar. In her letter to the Secretary General of Rajya Sabha, Hisham raised apprehensions over the actions of the Election Commission of India (ECI), alleging that the exercise had triggered fears of disenfranchisement among marginalised communities due to the absence of adequate safeguards and transparency. She also highlighted the relevance of the issue in the context of the forthcoming elections in Kerala and other states. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MPs Akhilesh Prasad Singh, Syed Naseer Hussain, Ranani Ashokrao Patil, Ranjeet Ranjan, Sushmita Dev also submitted Adjournment Motions urging the House to take up the issue of SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar as a matter of urgent public importance. (ANI) Queen Elizabeth's fashion looks are to go on display in a huge new exhibition in London. Queen Elizabeth's fashion is to be celebrated at an exhibition in London The monarch - who died in September 2022 at the age of 96 - will be celebrated for her style choices in a new show at Buckingham Palace in London to mark the year she would have turned 100 and it's been described as the "largest and most comprehensive" collection of the late monarch's clothing ever to be seen by the public. Exhibition curator Caroline de Guitaut said: "Only now, as the late Queen's fashion archive comes under the care of Royal Collection Trust, can we tell the story of a lifetime of thoughtful style choices - from her hands-on role and understanding of the soft power behind her clothing, to the exceptional craftsmanship behind each garment. "In the year that she would have turned 100 years old, this exhibition will be a celebration of Queen Elizabeth's uniquely British style and her enduring fashion legacy." The exhibition - put on by the Royal Collection Trust - is titled Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style and it's due to open in the spring of 2026. It will feature more than 200 items of clothing including the wedding dress - designed by Norman Hartnell - which she wore to marry Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh in 1947 as well as the gown she wore for her Coronation in 1953. The collection includes clothing, hats, shoes, accessories and jewellery alongside design sketches and fabric samples as well as correspondence which lifts the lid on the process of dressing the monarch. It will features pieces from Elizabeth's childhood and early years as well as throughout her reign from state occasions to items she wore when she was off duty such as riding jackets, tartan skirts and headscarves. Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style will run at the King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace from spring to autumn 2026 and tickets go on sale from November 2025. The show will be accompanied by a book - Queen Elizabeth II: Fashion and Style - which has been written by de Guitaut and features contributions from fashion experts and designers. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai stated today that he will not be hearing the plea filed by Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma challenging the constitutionality of the procedure leading to impeachment proceedings against him. The CJI reasoned that it would not be appropriate for him to hear the matter as he was part of the conversation regarding the controversy surrounding Justice Varma. The CJI later clarified that the court will take a call and assign an appropriate bench to hear Justice Varma's plea. The development came today when Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal mentioned the plea, appearing on behalf of Justice Varma, seeking an urgent hearing in the matter. Justice Yashwant Varma has recently approached the Supreme Court to challenge the in-house three-judge inquiry committee's report and the recommendation by former CJI Sanjiv Khanna to initiate impeachment proceedings against him. Justice Varma stated that he was not given a fair opportunity to respond to the in-house inquiry committee before it presented its findings. The cash was allegedly found by fire tenders when a fire broke out in the judge's residence on March 14 at his Delhi residence when he was the judge of Delhi High Court. The judge was not present at his house at the time of the incident. In his plea, Justice Varma alleged that the committee proceeded in a predetermined fashion and, even without finding any concrete evidence, drew adverse inferences against him after reversing the burden of proof. He sought a declaration that the recommendation by the CJI on May 8, 2025, to the President and the Prime Minister for initiation of his removal as a High Court Judge is "unconstitutional and ultra vires". "The Petitioner is not in possession of a copy of the communication dated May 8, but assails the action on various constitutional parameters. The petitioner is seeking the indulgence of this court, challenging the process culminating in the communication of the then CJI to the President and to the Prime Minister by way of his communication dated May 8 seeking the initiation of removal proceedings of the petitioner as a Judge of a High Court," the petition stated. He said that the in-house procedure, adopted via a 1999 Full Court Resolution to handle complaints against judges and preserve judicial independence while maintaining public faith, "unjustifiably extends beyond the intended scope of self-regulation and fact-finding". "By culminating in recommendations for removal from constitutional office, it creates a parallel, extra-constitutional mechanism that derogates from the mandatory framework under Articles 124 and 218 of the Constitution, which exclusively vest powers for removal of judges of the High Courts in Parliament through an address supported by a special majority, following an inquiry under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968," stated the petition. It further submitted that the in-house, which adopts no such comparable safeguards, usurps parliamentary authority to the extent that it empowers the judiciary to recommend or opine on the removal of Judges from constitutionally held office. "This violates the doctrine of separation of powers, which is part of the basic structure of the Constitution, as the judiciary cannot assume the role reserved for the legislature in the removal of judges," added the plea. Justice Varma also sought quashing of the final report dated May 3 of the in-house committee constituted by the CJI, and all actions consequential thereto. Invocation of the in-house procedure was "improper and invalid" since it was done in the absence of any formal complaint against Justice Varma, said the plea. The plea stated that the committee denied him access to evidence, withheld CCTV footage, and offered no opportunity to rebut the allegations. Key witnesses were examined in his absence, violating natural justice, he added. The committee was constituted on March 22 by then CJI Khanna to probe the incident, comprising Justices Sheel Nagu (then Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court), GS Sandhawalia (then Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court), and Anu Sivaraman (Judge, Karnataka High Court). The incident occurred on March 14, following a fire at his Lutyens' Delhi home, during which semi-burnt wads of cash were reportedly found. This discovery led to an in-house inquiry initiated by the Supreme Court, which appointed a three-member committee to investigate the matter. Justice Varma has strongly denied any involvement, asserting that neither he nor his family members placed the cash in the storeroom. (ANI) Following a controversy surrounding his meeting apparently held inside a mosque on Parliament Street, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said that faith unites people, while accusing the BJP of using religion as a "divisive" tool. Speaking to the media, Yadav alleged that the BJP wants people to keep "divided." "Faith connects. Any religion or faith that connects people is valuable, and we are with those that work to build trust and foster connections. BJP has a problem with this... BJP wants people to stay divided, not united. We have faith in all faiths... BJP's tool is religion..." Yadav said. Earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak called Yadav "Nawaazwadi" while accusing him and his party of not having faith in the constitution. He stated that the Indian constitution doesn't permit the use of religious places for political purposes. "Samajwadi Party chief and Samajwadi Party always violate the constitution. The Indian Constitution states that religious places cannot be used for political purposes. They do not have faith in the constitution. 'Woh hamesha Namaazwadi bane rehte hai' and that is what he is doing," Pathak told ANI. Reacting to this, SP MP Rajeev Rai said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should instead address the viral videos of its leaders. "Do we have to take a license from BJP to visit temples and mosques now? Should we make BJP's photos viral? They don't speak about the videos and photos of their leaders coming in from the streets," Rai told ANI. As this happened, BJP Minority Morcha National President Jamal Siddiqui lashed out at the Samajwadi Party and its MP, Mohibullah Nadvi, for turning the mosque into their party's office. Nadvi serves as the Imam of the Parliament Street Mosque. "You can see many SP MPs from the SP President. Rampur MP Mohibullah Nadvi is also present among them. Mohibullah Nadvi used to do the Imam's prayer in this mosque. But he is not ready to leave the mosque. Today it has crossed all limits! He made the mosque his party's office. We strongly condemn this," Siddiqui said in a statement. He said that they will demand that Delhi Minister Rekha Gupta and the Delhi Waqf Board to remove Rampur MP Mohibullah Nadvi from the responsibility of the Imam of Parliament Street mosque and take strict action against him. Siddiqui said that the BJP Minority Morcha will hold a protest against Akhilesh Yadav and his MP on July 25, after Friday prayers. (ANI) The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday deferred the order on framing of charge in the IRCTC hotel scam case. Former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, his family members and others are accused in this case. This case is related to alleged corruption in the tender for IRCTC hotels. Special judge Vishal Gogne sought clarification from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and listed the matter on August 5. The court had reserved the order on May 29 after hearing submissions by the counsel for the Investigation Agency and for the accused persons on a day-to-day basis. On March 1, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) concluded its arguements on charges against former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejaswi Yadav, former Minister Prem Chand Gupta and other accused persons. There are 14 accused in this case. The Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) DP Singh, alongwith Advocate Manu Mishra, had argued for CBI that there was corruption and conspiracy on the part of the accused persons in the allotment of two IRCTC hotel maintenance contracts. "There is sufficient material to frame charges against all accused persons", the CBI said. This case is connected to a period when Lalu Prasad Yadav served as Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009. It is alleged that the maintenance contract of two IRCTC hotels, namely BNR Ranchi and BNR Puri, was given to Sujata Hotel, a private firm owned by Vijay and Vinay Kochar. The CBI has alleged that in return for this deal, Lalu Prasad Yadav got three acres of prime land through a benami company. On July 7, 2017, the CBI had filed an FIR against Lalu. The agency also raided 12 locations linked to Lalu and his family members in Patna, New Delhi, Ranchi and Gurgaon. On the other hand, it was submitted on behalf of Former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav that there is no material to frame charges against him in the IRCTC corruption case, and he deserves discharge in this case. Senior advocate Maninder Singh, counsel for Lalu Prasad Yadav, argued that there were irregularities on the part of Lalu Prasad Yadav. The tenders were awarded in a fair manner. There is insufficient material to frame charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav. He deserved to be discharged of the charges. (ANI) The news article highlighted that garbage had not been collected in several localities for days. The report stated that streets commonly filled with food vendors in Shaheen Bagh had turned into dumping grounds, reeking of decaying waste. Residents on High Tension Road (popularly called 40-Futta) reported massive garbage mounds attracting swarms of flies. The foul smell has infiltrated homes, forcing many women to keep their doors and curtains closed. Local shopkeepers attributed the situation to the absence of Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) waste collection vehicles, which hadn't arrived in over five days. The NGT bench, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert members Dr A Senthil Vel and Dr Afroz Ahmad, noted several probable violations of environmental laws. These include the Environment Protection Act (1986), Solid Waste Management Rules (2016), the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act (1981), and the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act (1957). Citing the Supreme Court's ruling in the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai vs. Ankita Sinha & Ors. case, the Tribunal invoked its authority to address the issue on its own. Respondents named in the matter include the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and the District Magistrate of South East Delhi. They have been ordered to submit detailed affidavits no later than one week before the next hearing on October 8, 2025. Moreover, those filing without legal counsel must attend proceedings virtually to assist the Tribunal. (ANI) Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal conducted a surprise inspection at DKS Super Speciality Hospital on Wednesday morning and interacted with patients to review the quality of healthcare services. The visit was part of the state government's ongoing efforts to strengthen health infrastructure and ensure effective service delivery at public health facilities. Earlier, on July 17, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off 151 new vehicles for the health department, which will be distributed across all districts to support healthcare operations. Speaking to the media on that occasion, CM Sai said, "Our health department has been doing excellent work. The way the government is working to fulfil Modi's guarantee, good work is also happening in the health department. Today (July 17), old vehicles have been scrapped, and 151 new vehicles have been distributed, which will be given to all the districts of the state. Four to five vehicles go to every district, and all the officials of the department will be able to do better work in the field of health." He noted that these initiatives are being taken to enhance healthcare delivery in the state with support from the central government. The Chief Minister also reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making India a developed nation by 2047 and highlighted the country's rising global profile under his leadership. "PM has taken the resolve to build a developed India by 2047. With the manner in which he has worked in 11 years with the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas, India's prestige globally has been enhanced," CM said. CM Sai further stated that India has become the fourth-largest economy under PM Modi's leadership, contrasting it with the economic slowdown during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. "When there was a UPA Government at the Centre for 10 years from 2004 to 2014, the economic sector had come to a standstill. It was in the 10th position, but when Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, he brought the country to the 5th position in terms of economy, and in the 11th year, he has brought it to the fourth position. The country is confident that we will be a developed nation by 2047." (ANI) On the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, Deputy Chairman Rajya Sabha Harivansh, and Congress MP Pramod Tiwari paid their respects today at the Parliament premises. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tribute to both Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak and freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad on their respective birth anniversaries. In a social media platform X, Kharge quoted Azad on religious tolerance: "I believe in a religion that teaches equality and brotherhood." He honoured Azad as an immortal martyr who sacrificed his life for India's freedom. "On the birth anniversary of the great revolutionary, the immortal martyr Chandra Shekhar Azad, a brave son of Mother India who sacrificed his life for the freedom of the motherland, we pay our respectful homage to him," the Congress chief's post added. Payin homage to Tilak, Kharge's post, recalled his words and wrote, "If your thoughts are just, your goals are honest, and your efforts are constitutional, then I have full faith that your success is certain." He praised Tilak's pivotal role in shaping India's freedom movement, founding the Indian Home Rule League, and his work as a social reformer. "On the birth anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of India's freedom movement, shaped nationalism in its truest Indian essence, dedicated his life to the Congress, founded the Indian Home Rule League, and was a great social reformer, we offer our humble tributes to him," his post added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to freedom fighters Chandra Shekhar Azad and Lokmanya Tilak on their birth anniversary, lauding their unparalleled valour and significant contributions to India's independence movement. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. He epitomised unparalleled valour and grit. His role in India's quest for freedom is deeply valued and motivates our youth to stand up for what is just, with courage and conviction." Paying tribute to Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary, Modi commended his unwavering conviction and belief in the power of knowledge and service to others. "Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of India's freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others," the Prime Minister post on X read. Born in 1856, Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a scholar, philosopher, and nationalist who fearlessly opposed British rule through his writings and activism. He launched the influential weeklies 'Kesari' and 'Mahratta', and played a key role in the Indian Home Rule Movement, including signing the Lucknow Pact in 1916 with Mohammed Ali Jinnah, which promoted Hindu-Muslim unity. Chandra Shekhar Azad, born in 1906 in Madhya Pradesh, was a revolutionary leader known for reorganising the Hindustan Republican Association and leading daring actions against British authorities. He was killed in a police encounter in 1931 but remains an enduring symbol of youthful courage with his famous slogan, "We will face the bullets of enemies. We were free and we will remain free." The tributes reflected the nation's continued reverence for these icons who laid the foundation for India's independence. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Shashank Mani on Wednesday mocked the Samajwadi Party (SP) Chief Akhilesh Yadav for conducting a meeting inside a mosque stating that the party had only been doing "appeasement politics" for many years, further claiming that their only aim was to keep their family members in power. "Samajwadi Party has been doing appeasement politics for many years. They only have one aim -to keep members of their family in power. SP should work for all, not for one particular community," Mani said, speaking to ANI. Further, following the notice by the Supreme Court to the Uttar Pradesh government seeking response on the pleas on the decision of QR codes on eateries along the Kanwar Yatra route, Mani mocked the Opposition had no real issues in the state and had been protesting for the "sake" of it. "The (Uttar Pradesh) Chief Minister has said that the faith of every 'Kanwariya' must be respected. They should get cooperation from the government and society. It is a huge part of our culture and society....The Opposition has no real issues in Uttar Pradesh, and protest for the sake of protesting..." he said. Earlier on July 15, the Supreme Court had issued a notice to the UP and Uttarakhand governments seeking their responses to a plea challenging the mandate that requires shopkeepers along the Kanwar Yatra route to display QR codes, which could be scanned to reveal the names of the owners. The UP government had issued an order earlier this year, mandating eateries to display QR codes containing information on the shop owners. Subsequently, the Uttarakhand government also followed with a similar order. The mandate, now being challenged in the Supreme Court, is alleged to be violative of the fundamental rights of citizens. The plea further states that the direction requiring vendors to display their names and identities will lead to discriminatory profiling. It also notes that a similar mandate issued by the UP government last year was stayed by the Supreme Court. Thus, the plea seeks the respondent government to explain how the said mandate does not violate the constitutional rights of citizens and the interim stay order issued by the Supreme Court last year. The plea also suggests that such a mandate should be limited to standard licensing requirements, and vague directives requiring the display of names should be eliminated. After hearing submissions, the Court posted the matter to be heard next week. (ANI) Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav on Wednesday refuted the claims of a Samajwadi Party meeting held inside a mosque on Parliament Street, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "misleading" the public. Speaking to the media, Dimple Yadav said, "...There was no meeting going on there. BJP's intention has always been to mislead..." The SP MP further took aim at the Central government, alleging that they are avoiding discussion on important issues, including the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of Bihar's electoral rolls, Operation Sindoor, and the Pahalgam attack. She said, "This government does not want to talk about SIR, nor about the Pahalgam incident and Operation Sindoor; these were very important issues..." Earlier today, reacting to the controversy, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said that faith unites people, while accusing the BJP of using religion as a "divisive" tool. Speaking to the media, Yadav alleged that the BJP wants people to keep "divided." "Faith connects. Any religion or faith that connects people is valuable, and we are with those that work to build trust and foster connections. BJP has a problem with this... BJP wants people to stay divided, not united. We have faith in all faiths... BJP's tool is religion..." Yadav said. Earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak called Yadav "Nawaazwadi" while accusing him and his party of not having faith in the constitution. He stated that the Indian constitution doesn't permit the use of religious places for political purposes. "Samajwadi Party chief and Samajwadi Party always violate the constitution. The Indian Constitution states that religious places cannot be used for political purposes. They do not have faith in the constitution. 'Woh hamesha Namaazwadi bane rehte hai' and that is what he is doing," Pathak told ANI. Reacting to this, SP MP Rajeev Rai said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should instead address the viral videos of its leaders. "Do we have to take a license from BJP to visit temples and mosques now? Should we make BJP's photos viral? They don't speak about the videos and photos of their leaders coming in from the streets," Rai told ANI. (ANI) A fiery debate broke out in the Bihar Assembly between Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday, with both leaders engaging in a heated exchange. The tension arose over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, with Tejashwi questioning the process and Nitish defending the government's record. Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav questioned the requirement of 11 documents for the revision form, asking how poor people would manage to provide so many documents. In response, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar got agitated, reminded Tejashwi of his "parents' tenure," and called him a "child." Angered by Tejashwi's allegations, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reminded him of his parents' tenure, saying, "What are you talking about? Why are you speaking like this? When you were young, your parents were Chief Ministers. Do you know the situation back then? We left you (the Mahagathbandhan) because you weren't doing good work. Elections are coming up this year, and people will think about what to do. Our government has done a lot of work. These people just say anything for elections. Did women ever get anything before? We've done a lot for women. RJD didn't do anything for Muslims. We've worked for Muslims. You're just a kid, what do you know? People used to not even step out of their homes in Patna in the evening. We'll go to the people with the work we've done." Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday raised concerns over the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Identification and Revision (SIR) process for voter lists in Bihar, questioning its timing, impartiality, and feasibility, especially for the state's large migrant population. He criticised the requirement of 11 documents for voter registration, questioning how the poor would manage to produce such paperwork. "I asked for only four things. The voter list was first published in February, and after the Lok Sabha elections, a revision could have been done. Instead, they are rushing everything now. They are demanding 11 documents, which poor people do not have. Where will poor people get so many documents in just 25 days?" Tejashwi highlighted the challenges faced by economically disadvantaged citizens, underscoring the issues they encounter. The Election Commission requires new voters to submit 11 documents, including identity proof, birth certificates, residence certificates, Aadhaar cards, and mobile numbers. Tejashwi argued that this process would unfairly burden the poor, illiterate, and rural populations, potentially disenfranchising them. Tejashwi also highlighted the significant digital divide in the state, emphasizing the need for practical considerations in implementing such processes. Citing data from the Rajya Sabha, he noted, "Our party raised a question, and the Labour Ministry responded that 3 crore Biharis are registered as labourers living outside the state. When including unregistered individuals, approximately 4.3 crore Biharis reside outside Bihar for employment and other reasons. They return to vote during elections, but it is still feared that now the Election Commission (EC) will say it will remove them from the voter list." Tejashwi emphasised that the right to vote is a fundamental right in a democracy and urged the Election Commission to work impartially. "Lalu ji says that the right to vote is a fundamental right in a democracy. Our objection is not to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) itself, but the Election Commission should work impartially. The Election Commission has not held a press conference so far. Are the voters who cast their votes in the last Bihar election fake? Does it mean that Nitish Kumar became Chief Minister through fake means? Did Narendra Modi become PM through fake means? Did we also win elections through fake means? Almost three crore Bihari laborers live outside the state, and four and a half crore Bihari migrants are there. They come to Bihar to cast their votes," said Tejashwi. Opposition MLAs wore black attire to register their protest against the voter list revision and law and order issues in the state. Amid the commotion, Speaker Nand Kishor Yadav adjourned the Bihar Assembly until 2 PM. The Election Commission has defended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, stating it strengthens election integrity by removing ineligible voters from the rolls. (ANI) Lashing out at the Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav for holding a meeting inside a mosque on the Parliament street in New Delhi, National President of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Minority Morcha, Jamal Siddiqui stated that the meeting only showed how Yadav thought all Islamic religious places are in his "pocket". "I condemn the way Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav has conducted a meeting in the pious mosque in front of the Parliament. This shows Akhilesh Yadav thinks all Islamic religious places are in his pocket... BJP and Minority Morcha will protest against them," Siddiqui told ANI. Siddiqui also lashed out at Mohibbullah Nadvi, the Imam of the mosque, for letting the meeting take place despite being a representative of the Muslims. The BJP Minority Morcha National President demanded action and questioned why "so-called" representatives, including Asaduddin Owaisi, were now hidden and were not speaking on the matter. "I also condemn the Imam of the mosque, who is also an SP member, Mohibbullah Nadvi, for the way he let this happen, being a religious teacher and Muslims' representative... The way Dimple Yadav is sitting with her bare back and head against the code of conduct of the Mosque hurts Islamic sentiments worldwide. We demand action on them, and we will also file an FIR against them... Why are so-called representatives of Muslims like Asaduddin Owaisi, hidden now?... If this is the way, we will also hold a meeting after prayer on July 25th, starting with the National Song and ending with the National Anthem," he further stated. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav, commenting on his meeting, has said that faith unites people and also accused the BJP of using religion as a "divisive" tool. Speaking to the media, Yadav alleged that the BJP wants people to keep "divided." "Faith connects. Any religion or faith that connects people is valuable, and we are with those that work to build trust and foster connections. BJP has a problem with this... BJP wants people to stay divided, not united. We have faith in all faiths... BJP's tool is religion..." Yadav said. (ANI) 15th China-Northeast Asia Expo to open on Aug. 27 Xinhua) 08:48, July 23, 2025 BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The 15th China-Northeast Asia Expo will be held in Changchun City, Jilin Province, from Aug. 27 to 31, the Ministry of Commerce announced at a press conference Tuesday. Highlighting the importance of the expo, Vice Minister of Commerce Yan Dong said that Northeast Asian countries share geographical proximity, cultural bonds and strong commercial ties, with complementary strengths in resources and enormous potential for regional economic cooperation. Yan noted that practical cooperation between China and other Northeast Asian countries has deepened across various fields, maintaining positive momentum in economic and trade exchanges. Trade between China and the five Northeast Asian countries reached 901.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, up 1.6 percent year on year, accounting for nearly 15 percent of China's total foreign trade. China has maintained its position as the largest trading partner for all five countries, with the Republic of Korea and Japan ranking as its second and third-largest trading partners, respectively. Two-way investment between China and the five countries exceeded 7 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, with cooperation expanding into emerging fields including digital economy, green development, advanced manufacturing and modern services. Yang Andi, vice governor of Jilin, said the expo will bring together over 8,000 business representatives from 42 countries and regions globally, as well as 27 provincial-level regions across China. So far, 2,796 exhibition booths have been confirmed, completing 80 percent of the exhibition preparation work. A key highlight of this expo will be the first-ever modern industries pavilion, featuring leading firms, including Fortune 500 companies, Yang added. The pavilion will spotlight the transformation of traditional industries through smart and green upgrades, achievements in new quality productive forces, and the development of collaborative innovation ecosystems. Li Xingqian, vice chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, said the council has actively facilitated the deep integration of industrial and supply chains among Northeast Asian countries. In the first half of this year, the council supported more than 115 exhibition projects in Northeast Asian countries, involving over 4,000 Chinese enterprises. The expo, jointly organized by the Ministry of Commerce, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, and the Jilin provincial government, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. It remains the world's only comprehensive international expo jointly attended by all six Northeast Asian countries and open to participants from around the globe. "We aim to use the expo as an opportunity to further build consensus, expand cooperation, and promote common development between China and Northeast Asian countries," Yan said. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) The Damned have cancelled their scheduled performances in Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver this weekend, citing a "catastrophic event" at a band members home. The Damned have pulled a series of concerts due to a 'catastrophic event' The Punk legends - comprising Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Paul Gray, Monty Oxymoron, and Rat Scabies - were due to play Seattle on July 26 and Vancouver on July 28, as well as perform at Portlands Project Pabst festival on July 27. However, the "unexpected" event, which they didn't go into detail about, has left them forced to pull the plug. In a statement shared with fans, the band wrote on Instagram: "We are very sorry to have to cancel our Seattle, Portland and Vancouver shows this weekend, due to an unexpected and catastrophic event at a member of The Damned's home. "We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding." Refunds for the groups headline shows will be available at point of purchase. As of yet, it's unclear if The Damned plan to reschedule the concerts. The "catastrophic event" comes four months after the group's guitarist and founder, Brian James, died aged 70. The musician, who performed alongside artists including Iggy Pop during his decades-long career, passed away on March 5. He was widely recognised for his influence on the punk genre and as the writer of the first UK punk single, New Rose. A statement posted on his Facebook account read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of one of the true pioneers of music, guitarist, songwriter, and true gentleman, Brian James." Born in Hammersmith, London, in 1955, Brian was instrumental in shaping the early punk movement. The statement about his passing added: Incessantly creative and a musical tour de force, over a career which spanned more than six decades, with his music also gracing film and television soundtracks, in addition to The Damned and The Lords of the New Church, Brian worked with a plethora of punk and rock n rolls finest, from Iggy Pop to Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland to Cheetah Chrome. Brian reunited with the original members of The Damned in 2022 for a series of UK shows, marking more than four decades since the release of New Rose. A meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the Rajya Sabha was held in the capital on Wednesday. During the meeting it was decided to hold a discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Rajya Sabha on July 29. According to sources, the government however had denied the Opposition's demand of a farewell speech by former vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Government agreed to the Opposition's demand that the seven MPs who would be retiring be allowed to make farewell speeches: Earlier, the Business Advisory Committee meeting of the Lok Sabha was held on Monday. According to sources, a discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha is likely to begin next week, with 16 hours allocated to the Operation after a consensus was reached.Oppositon parties have been demanding presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the debate on Operation Sindoor Meanwhile, Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence over repeated "ceasefire" claims made by US President Donald Trump. Suggesting that one can't hide from reality, he said that the entire world knows that Trump announced a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan. "How can the Prime Minister give a statement? Kya bolenge PM, ki Trump ne karwaya hai? (What will he say? That Trump has announced it? He can't say it, but it is the truth. The entire world knows that Trump has announced a ceasefire. We can't hide from reality," Gandhi told reporters here. "This is not only about a ceasefire. There are several major issues that we would like to discuss related to defence, defence manufacturing, and Operation Sindoor. The condition is not normal; the entire nation knows," he added.Intensifying his attack. Gandhi stated that the Prime Minister has not been able to provide a single response to Trump's claims about a ceasefire, which he has reiterated 25 times so far. "Those who call themselves 'deshbhakt' have run away. The Prime Minister is unable to give a single statement. Trump has claimed 25 times that he has announced a ceasefire. Who is he? This is not his work. However, the Prime Minister didn't respond once. This is reality. Can't hide from it," the Congress MP said. "They have destroyed our foreign policy. You can hardly count on your fingers the number of countries that have supported us. No one has supported us," Gandhi added. This came after a recent statement made by Donald Trump, where he repeated his claims of "stopping the war between India and Pakistan" in the name of trade deals. (ANI) In a significant blow to trans-border arms trafficking, the Amritsar Rural Police, acting on specific intelligence inputs, seized eight illegal weapons in two separate operations with the Border Security Force (BSF Punjab). The recoveries include eight pistols, five of .30 caliber pistols and three 9mm pistols, along with magazines, from four individuals allegedly involved in cross-border arms trafficking networks. FIRs have been registered at Police Station Gharinda, Amritsar, and authorities confirmed that further investigation is underway to uncover the full extent of the network and its international linkages. The arrested accused have been identified as: Lakhwinder Singh, resident of Dande, Amritsar; Harpreet Singh, resident of Dande, Amritsar; Akashdeep Singh, resident of Chabbal, Tarn Taran; and Gurpreet Singh, resident of Kasel, Tarn Taran. The Director General of Punjab Police emphasised their ongoing commitment to combating organised crime and ensuring the safety and security of citizens on his X account. He shared on X, "@PunjabPoliceInd remains firmly committed to cracking down on organized crime and safeguarding the safety and security of our citizens." In another successful operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) intercepted and recovered two narcotics-laden drones in Punjab's Amritsar on Tuesday afternoon. In a press release, the BSF stated that technical countermeasures deployed on the border intercepted and neutralised two drones on the Amritsar border, which were subsequently recovered by BSF troops. The recovery of 02 DJI Mavic 3 Classic drones along with 02 packets of heroin (Gross weight- 1.130 Kgs) took place from an area adjacent to the village, Dhanoe Kalan, as per the release. The release further stated, "These successful recoveries of drones with narcotics highlight the perfect combination of robust technical countermeasures and alert BSF troops deployed on borders, who are committed to decimate nefarious designs of cross-border Pakistani drug syndicate." On Sunday, the BSF recovered the upper body of a pistol, four magazines and a drone in two significant operations with a large heroin packet in Punjab's Tarn Taran. According to the release, "On Sunday early morning, the BSF troops carried out a search operation, which culminated in the recovery of one packet containing the upper body of a pistol and four magazines wrapped in yellow adhesive tape with an iron ring and a torch attached to it. This recovery took place from a waterlogged paddy field adjacent to the village of Wan." In another incident in the morning hours, acting on specific information, a joint search operation was conducted by the BSF and Punjab Police, which led to the recovery of one DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone carrying 01 large packet of heroin (Gross Weight- 3.700 Kgs) from a farming field adjacent to village- Shekhpura of district Tarn Taran. The narcotics packet, wrapped in yellow colour adhesive tape, was found attached to the drone with the help of a metal ring. Reliable input and keen observation, followed by swift action of BSF troops, once again thwarted these nefarious attempts of Pakistan-based smugglers trying to pump drugs and arms in Punjab from across the border. (ANI) The Bihar legislative assembly witnessed a heated exchange during the monsoon session when RJD MLA Bhai Virendra on Wednesday after he made a statement that was deemed objectionable by some members of the House. After his comments, ministers allegedly started abusing him, leading to a further escalation of the situation. The heated exchange occurred during a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, escalating tensions between the ruling coalition and the opposition. Responding to the accusations, RJD MLA Bhai Virendra stood firm, asserting, "Whatever I have said, I stand by it. I have said that the House is nobody's property. What was wrong with what I said? This is parliamentary language... After this, the ministers started abusing. What should I apologise for? What wrong have I done?... Is Vijay Sinha our leader? Is he our master? They were born in front of me..." Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha condemned Virendra's statement, saying, "CM tried to explain to them that only 2 days are left, so the questions of public interest should be allowed to be raised peacefully... But their leader, Bhai Virendra, said that does the House belong to anyone's father? In this way, he wants to establish the Gunda Raaj inside the House. They have forgotten that this is not the 90s... We told them to apologise for their language... If they do not apologise, then such people have no right to sit in the House." Bihar Minister Ashok Choudhary also criticised the opposition's conduct, stating, "These people showed their arrogance yesterday, too. Once the House started, the speaker of the legislative assembly told the opposition to express its views with dignity... When CM told them that the assembly would be over in 2-3 days, people did not agree and started using abusive language... We asked him to apologise... We condemn the entire incident..." The altercation began when Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav raised concerns over the SIR process, alleging it created fear among migrant voters. (ANI) Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Wednesday criticised the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc over their protest outside Parliament against the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar, terming their actions as "hooliganism." Speaking to ANI, Singh stated that both hooliganism and anarchy were being openly spread in Bihar and the Parliament, further questioning the opposition on what the issue was with SIR if everything had been put out in the open. "The way they are protesting is hooliganism. Hooliganism and anarchy is being spread both in Bihar and Parliament. Secondly, when everything is out in the open (with Special Intensive Revision (SIR)), what is the issue? Who is being deprived of the right to vote?... " Singh told ANI. He further claimed that while the government had invited the Opposition for a discussion, they were only interested in creating a ruckus. "It is unfortunate for Parliament, at one time they hold a meeting in a mosque, then protest at the Makar Dwar of Parliament... We had called them for a debate, but they do not want a debate; they only want a ruckus..." he added. Earlier in the day, moments before the commencement of the third day of the Parliament session, INDIA bloc continued their protest for the second day at Parliament's Makar Dwar against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) being conducted by the Election Commission (EC) in poll bound Bihar, demanding to halt the revision exercise and alleging that voting rights of people are being stripped away. Multiple leaders, including Lok Sabha's Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Deputy Party Leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi, Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi and Manickam Tagore, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, and several other leaders, were present. The party leaders chanted slogans "Save our Democracy", "Save our Constitution," while holding placards calling for the SIR to be stopped. (ANI) The BJP will provide its full backing to the ongoing agitation of small traders in the state, said BJP state president and MLA BY. Vijayendra at the party's state headquarters in Jagannath Bhavan. Speaking to the media, he stated that the state government's Commercial Taxes Department has begun issuing notices to street vendors, as well as micro, small, and very small businesses--sparking widespread concern. "All these traders now live in fear and anxiety." Vijayendra accused the Chief Minister and his cabinet of plotting to blame the Union Government for Karnataka's own revenue problems. He recalled that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had publicly urged officials to overtake Maharashtra and top the country in GST collections, even setting explicit revenue targets. He continued, "Now the truth is out." "With the Congress government's treasury running dry, the Chief Minister has unleashed the Commercial Taxes Department to issue these notices in a bid to raise money. The notices served on street vendors and small businesses are completely illegal. The government must immediately stop issuing them and withdraw those already sent," he said. He added that basic goods, such as milk, are outside the GST ambit; yet, even such vendors have been served. While GST has only three rate slabs, officials are issuing notices that demand 18 per cent tax from everyone indiscriminately. "Because the exchequer is empty, they are sending notices overnight without any review, leaving every trader terrified. The government must roll back this decision at once." Small vendors and traders across Karnataka have raised serious concerns after receiving GST notices from the commercial tax department for UPI-based transactions exceeding Rs 40 lakh annually. They have requested that the government revoke notices, demanding a relaxation in the enforcement of these rules for small-scale vendors. Speaking on behalf of the vendors, a member of the Karnataka Pradesh Street Vendors Association, Abhilash Shetty, said, "Small businesses run with a margin of 5 to 10 percent... The tax (GST) along with other things like penalty, comes to 50% and it is not possible for the vendors to pay such a huge tax with this. We request the government to interfere and give relaxation to the small vendors in this matter..." The association's legal representative, Advocate Shakuntala, echoed the sentiment, criticising the government for failing to educate small vendors about their tax obligations when registering their businesses. She said, "If taxes are being imposed, why were they not educated first?... When they took the registration, they should have been made aware about the taxes on selling of goods, revenue..." In Haveri, a vegetable trader named Shankar Gowda Hadimani shared his concern after receiving a 29 lakh tax notice from the Bengaluru Tax Office. He stated, "... Since there are no GST rules on fruits and vegetables, I did not register for GST number. But I got a notice to pay Rs 29 lakh in taxes for a business of over Rs 40 lakh... The officials have told me that if it is proven that I have done so much business in vegetables, the notice will be withdrawn." (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Pradeep Bhandari on Wednesday took a sharp swipe at Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of "peddling Pakistani Narrative more consistently than Asim Munir." In a social media post on X, Bhandari wrote, "Rahul Gandhi doubts victory of our forces in Operation Sindoor! Pakistan should thank Rahul Gandhi for being more consistent in peddling Pakistani Narrative than Asim Munir!" https://x.com/pradip103/status/1947933533449949241 Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi expressed scepticism over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements regarding Operation Sindoor, pointing out apparent contradictions. Gandhi suggested that something is "fishy" ("kuch n kuch to dal mein kaala hai"), accusing the government of ruining India's foreign policy, claiming that no country supported India. Speaking to reporters, Rahul Gandhi said, "They have said that there will be discussions on Operation Sindoor after the PM returns. There will be discussion... But there are ongoing statements by PM Modi. On one hand, he claims Operation Sindoor is still ongoing, but on the other hand, he states that we have achieved victory. Trump, on the other hand, is saying he was the one who brokered peace and paused Operation Sindoor. He has said it 25 times. Kuch n kuch to dal mein kaala hai (Something is fishy) ... They have ruined our foreign policy. No one supported us." He further hit out at Prime Minister Modi for his silence over repeated "ceasefire" claims made by US President Donald Trump. Suggesting that one can't hide from reality, he said that the entire world knows that Trump announced a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan. "How can the Prime Minister give a statement? Kya bolenge PM, ki Trump ne karwaya hai? (What will he say? That Trump has announced it? He can't say it, but it is the truth. The entire world knows that Trump has announced a ceasefire. We can't hide from reality," Gandhi told reporters. "This is not only about a ceasefire. There are several major issues that we would like to discuss related to defence, defence manufacturing, and Operation Sindoor. The condition is not normal; the entire nation knows," he added. Intensifying his attack, Gandhi stated that the Prime Minister has not been able to provide a single response to Trump's claims about a ceasefire, which he has reiterated 25 times so far. "Those who call themselves 'deshbhakt' have run away. The Prime Minister is unable to give a single statement. Trump has claimed 25 times that he has announced a ceasefire. Who is he? This is not his work. However, the Prime Minister didn't respond once. This is reality. Can't hide from it," the Congress MP said. (ANI) Justice Neena Bansal Krishna ruled in favour of Purkayastha's bail petitions, granting him protection from arrest in both matters. Alongside Purkayastha, the court also approved anticipatory bail for Pranjal Pandey in the foreign funding case filed by Delhi Police's EOW. Prabir was represented by Senior Advocates Kapil Sibal, Dayan Krishnan, Siddharth Agarwal, alongside Advocates Arshdeep Singh Khurana, Harsh Srivastava, Sidak Singh Anand, Shreedhar Kale, Rupali Samuel, Sowjhanya Shanker The accusations stem from a First Information Report (FIR) that alleges NewsClick's parent company, PPK Newsclick Studio Pvt Ltd, received Rs 9.59 crore in Foreign Direct Investment from Worldwide Media Holdings LLC, based in the USA, during the 2018-19 financial year--purportedly in breach of existing regulations. It was stated that both Purkayastha and Pandey had previously been granted interim protection from arrest in 2021 while the investigations were ongoing. A detailed copy of the court's recent order is expected soon. ED in February 2021 had raided the premises of NewsClick and residences of its editor in connection with a case of alleged money laundering and conducted search and seizure operations. The ED case related to alleged foreign funding is based on an FIR registered by Delhi Police's Economic Offence Wing. (ANI) Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Wednesday hit out at the BJP-led NDA government over Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar, accusing it of "snatching" people's right to vote. Terming the electoral roll revision in Bihar as "Vote Chori", Gogoi said that the government does not want a discussion on the issue during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament. Alleging the revision was an "attack" on democracy, the Congress leader said, "...If we don't protect people's right to vote, then how will democracy stay alive? ...They don't want discussion on this 'vote chori'. BJP is attacking democracy once again and snatching people's right to vote." Meanwhile, amid continued uproar and protests from the Opposition MPs on the third day of the monsoon session, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have been adjourned till July 24. Both Houses will again meet at 11 am on Thursday. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced major disruptions on Wednesday amid Opposition protest over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls being undertaken by the Election Commission (EC) in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, Operation Sindoor, the Pahalgam attack and US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. Earlier, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav raised concerns over the Election Commission's SIR process for voter lists in Bihar, questioning its timing, impartiality, and feasibility, especially for the state's large migrant population. He criticised the requirement of 11 documents for voter registration, questioning how the poor would manage to produce such paperwork. "I asked for only four things. The voter list was first published in February, and after the Lok Sabha elections, a revision could have been done. Instead, they are rushing everything now. They are demanding 11 documents, which poor people do not have. Where will poor people get so many documents in just 25 days?" Tejashwi highlighted the challenges faced by economically disadvantaged citizens, underscoring the issues they encounter. A heated debate erupted in the Bihar Assembly over voter list revision, with Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar engaging in a sharp exchange. (ANI) A delegation from the TIPRA Motha Party met with top officials of the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Delhi on Wednesday to discuss key issues, including the implementation of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tripura. "Today, an official delegation from the TIPRA Motha Party held a crucial meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners at Nirvachan Sadan, New Delhi," the party said in a Facebook post. "One of the key agendas discussed was the immediate implementation of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in #Tripura. And the Hon'ble Commission has assured us that the SIR will be conducted all across the country, including in Tripura," it added. Pradyot Bikram Manikya DebBarma, the current titular King (Maharaja) and statesman from Tripura, also wrote about the meeting and the discussion held on SIR and said, "Today the TIPRA Motha delegation met the ECI officials at Delhi to press for an implementation of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Tripura." Mentioning the illegal migration happening in the state, he further added, "Illegal migration is affecting our state and northeast, and today if we don't identify illegal voters, there will be no tomorrow for our next generation. The good news is that the ECI has assured the delegation that SIR will be conducted across the country, including Tripura." Meanwhile, the Election Commission is conducting SIR in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections, which are expected to take place in October and November. Earlier on Tuesday, the ECI said that more than 52.30 lakh voters were not found at their registered addresses during the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar. According to the poll body, 52,30,126 electors, amounting to 6.62 per cent of the state's total registered voters, were either deceased, had shifted permanently, were enrolled at multiple locations, or were untraceable. Of the total, nearly 18.5 lakh electors were reported as deceased, 26 lakh had permanently shifted, and nearly 7.5 lakh electors were found to be enrolled at multiple places, and around 11,000 voters were not traceable. The ECI has shared the list of these names with the 1.5 Lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by district presidents of 12 major political parties in Bihar. These BLAs have been actively cooperating in finding the status of electors not found at their addresses. (ANI) Fire tenders were rushed to the factory site to douse the fire. Efforts are underway. More details awaited. On Tuesday, three workers died while three others sustained injuries in an explosion at a fireworks manufacturing factory located in Sivakasi area of Tamil Nadu's Virudhunagar district. The incident occurred in a privately owned firecracker factory located in Narayanapuram village in Sivakasi area of Virudhunagar. Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed deep shock and grief over the incident and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakhs for each of the kin of the deceased in the incident from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund. A financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh would be provided to seriously injured individuals, while individuals with minor injury would receive help of Rs 50,000. (ANI) Stephen Mangan admits he is the "worst person" to host The Fortune Hotel. Stephen Mangan spoke to Jessie Ware and Lennie Ware on the latest episode of the Table Manners podcast The 57-year-old star fronts the ITV1 game show, which sees 10 contestants have a briefcase upon arrival at The Fortune Hotel, with one containing the 250,000 jackpot, and eight being empty, and one holding an "Early Checkout Card", and the competitors play a series of challenges to uncover who has which briefcase. But Stephen, "in some ways", does not think he is the right person to present the show - which began to air in 2024 - because he hates people not getting on and is too compassionate. In an appearance on the latest episode of the Table Manners podcast, Stephen told hosts Lennie Ware, 74, and Jessie Ware, 40: "In some ways, I'm the worst person in the world to host something like that, because I just don't like people not getting on. "Whenever anyone would be upset or start to get emotional, I would want to sort of make it okay. "But of course, that stuff makes really good television. So, I had to sometimes sit on my hands." The two series of The Fortune Hotel were shot in Grenada, and Stephen joked he agreed to present the show to get a trip to the Caribbean island. The comedian quipped: "Of course! How is that even a question?" But Stephen teased that a potential third series of The Fortune Hotel would be filmed in a new country. He said: "We film the first series in Granada, and then we film the second series in exactly the same place. "But I think if it goes again, we'll go to other parts of the world." Stephen and his wife, 56-year-old actress Louise Delamere, have been married since 2007, and they have three sons - Harry, 17, Frank, 14, and Jack, nine - together. The star filmed The Fortune Hotel during school time, and he joked that the hardest thing about doing the show was not making Louise jealous of him being in Granada when the pair video called each other on FaceTime. He quipped: "It did fall during school time. I have to say the hardest work I did on that job was finding somewhere to FaceTime my wife that didn't have a rum shack or a palm tree behind me. "I had to do a lot in cupboards." Table Manners is released weekly on all podcast platforms. The arrested accused have been identified as Mohd Faiq from Delhi, Mohd Fardeen from Ahmedabad, Sefullah Kureshi from Modasa in Aravalli, and Zeeshan Ali from Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Confirming the arrests, Gujarat ATS DIG Sunil Joshi said all four suspects were under surveillance for activities suspected to be connected to AQIS, a proscribed terror outfit affiliated with Al Qaeda. The operation was conducted based on specific intelligence inputs and coordinated surveillance, he added. Further details are awaited. (ANI) Tensions flared in Patna on Wednesday after police allegedly used lathis during a protest led by Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor, injuring a young supporter. In response, Kishor warned the Bihar government that his party would disrupt its functioning across the state if their demands were not addressed. Kishor demanded a written statement from the Chief Secretary regarding the pending issues raised by his party and confirmed that five senior Jan Suraaj leaders were currently in talks with the official. "If you have hit an unarmed man of Suraaj with a stick, I'm sitting right here. This is a restricted area, try to hit me. We will make it difficult for the government to function in the whole of Bihar... You have hit a boy who got injury in his head... Either the Chief Secretary gives us in writing when they will give us the answers, or we won't move from here," Kishor said. He further added, "The Chief Secretary is talking with the five senior leaders of the Jan Suraaj. We are sitting here peacefully. The police and the government have to bow down. It is about the public, and they have to agree, and if they don't agree, we won't step back. We are waiting to see the outcome of the meeting. Police can't do anything; they have hit one boy. They are saying that this is a restricted area. We are sitting here and telling them to try to hit us...." The confrontation occurred as the Jan Suraaj group tried to march towards the Bihar Assembly. They were stopped by police barricades, leading to a brief scuffle and rising tension at the protest site. Speaking to ANI earlier, Kishor criticised the Bihar government for ignoring the plight of lakhs of children working as labourers across the state. "In this same heat, more than 50 lakh children of Bihar are working as labourers, and the government is not even paying attention. So if we have to wake up the government, then we need to come out on the streets... We are just going, and police can do whatever they want," he said. Responding to the situation, Patna SP Diksha stated that the protestors were not allowed to move past the restricted area near the Assembly. "They are not allowed to proceed further from here... This is a restricted area, and they are not allowed to go there. Apart from this, discussions are going on with these people. If they are ready to send a delegation and tell us their demands, we will," she said. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Wednesday, while hearing the suo motu case of deforestation in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area in Telangana, said that while sustainable development is important, it does not mean that forests can be destroyed overnight with bulldozers. A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justices Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi criticised the Telangana government for destroying the Kancha Gachibowli forest land overnight. "I am an advocate of sustainable development, but that does not mean employ 30 bulldozers overnight and destroy all forest land," the CJI said. The apex court was hearing a suo motu case initiated in the wake of large-scale felling of trees by the state in the forest area of Kancha Gachibowli. Earlier it had warned the Telangana government of stern action if no decision is taken on the restoration of the Kancha Gachibowli forest in the state. It had told the state authorities to either restore the lost forest cover or face consequences. The apex court had directed the wildlife warden of Telangana to examine and take immediate steps to protect the wildlife affected on account of deforestation in 100 acres of land in Kancha Gachibowli. It had made it clear that not even a single tree should be felled in the area. It had also warned Telangana authorities about sending its officers responsible for deforestation to a "temporary prison" in the "very same spot" if the state justified the felling of trees. While taking suo moto cognisance of the felling of trees at the forest area in Kancha Gachibowli in Telangana, the bench had stayed the felling of trees at the site and warned the Chief Secretary of the consequences if its order was not complied with. It had ordered that until further orders, there shall be no activity of any sort at the site, except protection of trees already existing. The land is located in the IT hub of Hyderabad and has become contentious, with people expressing concerns over the loss of green cover and space for wildlife there. University of Hyderabad students were protesting against the auction of the land and want the land to be transferred to the university. (ANI) In a significant step towards balancing tradition with environmental responsibility, the government, on Wednesday, submitted an affidavit in the Bombay High Court stating that domestic Ganesh idols of a certain height will be immersed in artificial ponds, said a press statement. While large idols of Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandals will be immersed in the traditional manner in the sea, with all necessary environmental precautions in place. This move will pave the way for the immersion of large Ganesh idols in the sea. The ban on POP (Plaster of Paris) posed a serious threat to the livelihoods of lakhs of sculptors and jeopardised the economy of a major traditional industry. In response, Maharashtra's Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar urged the Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission to conduct a thorough study. A panel led by renowned scientist Dr Anil Kakodkar was commissioned to examine the use of POP and its environmental impact, and it submitted key recommendations to the government. Following the submission of this report by the Union Ministry of Environment to the court, the ban on POP was lifted. The court then directed the state government to clarify its stand on the immersion of large Ganesh idols. Relying on the findings of Dr Kakodkar's committee, the state conducted a detailed study and submitted its affidavit before the Bombay High Court today. The matter was heard by the bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne, with Advocate General Birendra Saraf outlining the state's policy before the court. Meanwhile, the government has affirmed its commitment to upholding tradition, particularly the age-old practice of immersing large and prominent Ganesh idols in the sea in Mumbai. To maintain ecological balance, the existing system of using artificial ponds for immersing a large number of smaller, household idols of a certain height will continue as before. Emphasising Mumbai's rich legacy of over a hundred years of Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav celebrations, the government has assured the court that the sanctity of the festival and its associated rituals, including idol immersion, will be fully preserved. At the same time, environmentally conscious measures will also be implemented. The court has taken note of the government's stance, and the hearing will continue tomorrow. (ANI) The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has announced a collaboration with Germany's TU Dresden to transform surgery with AI and deep-tech solutions to tackle health issues. This is a key outcome of the three-day workshop conducted at AIIMS. "The signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) between Prof. Ursula Staudinger and Dr M. Srinivas, Director of AIIMS New Delhi, formally establishing a long-term cooperative pathway in translational research, clinical integration of digital technologies, and joint startup incubation," AIIMS Delhi said in a release. According to the release, the Indo-German workshop on "Artificial Intelligence, Extended Reality, and Robotics in Healthcare: Emerging Pathways from Diagnosis to Therapy," held at TU Dresden, positions itself as a major player in healthcare innovation on the world stage. The 3-day workshop, conducted from July 16 to July 18 under the auspices of the Indo-German Science & Technology Centre (IGSTC), hosted over 50 clinicians, researchers, innovators, and industrial stalwarts from both countries. "With support from the Embassy of India in Germany, the workshop highlighted a common aspiration of Germany and India to co-develop deep-tech solutions tackling modern healthcare issues. With a Build from the transCampus IITM Legacy. In strategic terms, this is in line with transCampus IITM - the flagship platform of TU Dresden in partnership with IIT Madras". This transCampus ecosystem brings together engineering, data science, medicine, and clinical practice, and now AIIMS New Delhi has joined as a core partner. According to Prof. Ursula Staudinger, Rector of TU Dresden, "In this emerging partnership, TU Dresden stands at the helm, bringing together Germany's best in medically orientated engineering and Indian clinical expertise to forge a strong interdisciplinary research model at the interface of engineering, medicine, and technological foresight." Dr M. Srinivas, Director of AIIMS New Delhi, stated, "This collaboration is a game changer. We are combining the really real-world clinical experience of AIIMS and the engineering and technology excellence of TU Dresden to create a global prototype for future-ready healthcare systems. The opportunity to translate this into patient care across not just our two countries but on a global scale is huge." The AIIMS delegation featured clinicians from New Delhi, including Dr M. Srinivas, Director, AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr Sandeep Agarwala, HOD, Paediatric Surgery, Dr Nitish Naik, Professor, Cardiology, Dr M. D. Ray, Professor, Surgical Oncology, Dr. BRAIRCH, Dr Anita Dhar, Professor, Surgical Disciplines Dr Kritika Rangarajan, Associate Professor, Radios Diagnosis, Dr. BRAIRCH Further into Science Diplomacy. The event made a significant contribution to Indo-German science diplomacy. It was inaugurated by Dr Ramanuj Banerjee, Science Counsellor at the Embassy of India in Berlin, on behalf of H.E. Ajit Gupte, Ambassador of India to Germany. (ANI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah chaired a meeting with representatives of various trade unions on Wednesday to discuss concerns over GST notices issued to small traders for non-payment of taxes. The meeting addressed grievances and proposed solutions to support small businesses. Trade union representatives, including the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), raised concerns about confusion among small traders regarding GST notices, which often include loan amounts and personal transactions. They urged the government to allow traders to directly resolve issues with the Commercial Tax Department without intermediaries and to provide sufficient time to settle dues. Suggestions included launching a dedicated helpline and conducting awareness programs to clarify GST regulations. They also requested a one-time waiver of old tax arrears. The Chief Minister clarified that notices were issued only to traders with UPI transactions exceeding Rs. 40 lakh, initially to prompt GST registration. He assured that no taxes would be collected from traders dealing in exempt goods, such as milk, vegetables, meat, and fruits, but those liable under the law must comply. He announced that old tax arrears would not be pursued, provided all such traders register under the GST and start paying the GST in the future. The government emphasised its commitment to supporting small traders and ensuring lawful business operations. It will provide assistance for timely tax payments and enhance the existing helpline for better accessibility. The state, which ranks second in India for GST collection, shares 50 per cent of the revenue with the central government, as decided by the GST Council chaired by the Union Finance Minister. The government assured transparent operations and help the traders in every possible way legally. Trade bodies confirmed they have not supported any bandhs and agreed to withdraw planned protests following the Chief Minister's assurances. The government reiterated its focus on empowering small traders and boosting purchasing power through various programs. Small vendors and traders across Karnataka have raised serious concerns after receiving GST notices from the commercial tax department for UPI-based transactions exceeding Rs 40 lakh annually. They have requested that the government revoke notices, demanding a relaxation in the enforcement of these rules for small-scale vendors. (ANI) Brother of Priyadarshini Mattoo and a group of concerned citizens have written to Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood urging him to reject any reconsideration of life convict Santosh Kumar Singh's release from prison following Delhi High Court setting aside the order of Delhi government's Sentence Review Board (SRB) in this regard. In a letter written to Delhi Home Minister on Wednesday, Hemant Mattoo, brother of Priyadarshini Mattoo and members of group which fought to get justice for her, said they are writing on behalf of countless citizens, particularly young women and their families across India, who continue to place their faith in the justice system to protect them from those "who stalk, harass, violate, and silence them". The letter said that this faith is now being tested by reports that the SRB has been asked to reconsider the premature release of Santosh Kumar Singh--convicted for the brutal rape and murder of Priyadarshini Mattoo. The letter said that long before Priyadarshini Mattoo was brutally raped and murdered by Santosh Kumar Singh, she lived in fear of this man. "She lodged multiple complaints: on February 25, 1995 when she was stalked and forced to stop her car; on August 16, 1995 when he followed her home and tried to break into her house; and on November 6, 1995, when he physically assaulted her at the college campus. She was compelled to seek help from police repeatedly and each time, the convict gave undertakings that he would stop harassing her," the letter said. "When even after giving the undertaking, he did not stop, she and her father approached the Commissioner of Police for protection. Santosh Kumar Singh while seeking revenge even filed malicious complaints with the university resulting in her results being withheld. These facts underline that the Santosh Kumar Singh displayed a dangerous pattern of obsessive, violent behaviour that eventually led to the most extreme violation--a crime committed not in a moment of passion but with premeditated malice. His past conduct outside prison cannot be ignored when evaluating his so-called 'good conduct' within its walls," it added. The Delhi High Court earlier this month set aside the order of the Sentence Review Board (SRB) and directed it to consider afresh the plea of life convict Santosh Kumar Singh. His plea for premature release was declined by the SRB. He was convicted and awarded a death sentence by the Delhi High Court for the murder of Priyadarshini Mattoo on January 16, 1996. The Supreme Court later commuted his sentence. Santosh is the son of a former inspector general of police. Justice Sanjeev Narula set aside the recommendation of the SRB. "I have seen some reformation in the petitioner," Justice Narula said while pronouncing the order. The High Court gave some directions for the consideration of the matter for premature release by the sentence review board. Singh had challenged the order of the SRB in 2023. Priyadarshini Mattoo was found dead in her house. A case of rape and murder was registered. Santosh Singh was acquitted by the trial court in 1999, leading to a huge hue and cry. The prosecution had then appealed against the acquittal in 2000. The Delhi High Court had heard the matter. He was sentenced to death by the Delhi High Court on October 30, 2006. His death sentence was commuted to a life sentence by the Supreme Court in October 2010. In their letter to Delhi Home Minister, family of Priyadarshini Mattoo and concerned citizens said that Delhi Sentencing Remission Policy, 2004 requires a minimum of 14 years of actual imprisonment for life convicts whose death sentences are commuted. Further, the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018 (Rules 1244-1259), categorically classify "murder with rape" among the most serious offences, warranting heightened scrutiny and a minimum of 20 years before considering remission. The letter, which has also been signed by Aditya Razdan and Vivek Raina, Founders, Justice for Priyadarshini Mattoo; journalists Aditya Raj Kaul and Rhythma Kaul and senior lawyer Dhruv Suri, cited a Supreme Court verdict and said the top court has reiterated that remission is not a right but conditional privilege, "one that must be denied where public safety and gravity of the offence outweigh all other considerations". They said the risk of reoffending is well-documented in cases of sexual violence and cited several recent examples to express their concerns. "It should also be considered that the release of a convict in such a case would severely undermine the faith of the victim's family along with the public at large in the judicial system's ability to deliver a meaningful deterrence," the letter said. It said that over the long years it took for Priyadarshini Mattoo's family to fight for justice, her parents and sister waged a lonely, relentless battle--and tragically passed away without closure. "Even in their final public statement, they voiced unwavering faith in the Indian judiciary and political system while appealing for justice. Now, her brother--who alone survives--is once again confronted by the possibility that the system may fail him yet again by allowing the perpetrator of this brutality to walk free," the letter said. "The release of Santosh Kumar Singh would send a chilling signal across India. It risks becoming a dark blot during the BJP-led government's tenure in the national capital and severely undermines the Centre's declared commitment to women's safety--especially stark given that Delhi's Chief Minister is a woman. This decision could inflict deep damage on the government's credibility in matters of gender justice and public safety," it added. The letter said that NCRB reported over 4.45 lakh crimes against women in 2022 and "such a precedent would erode trust, deter victims from coming forward, and embolden perpetrators". "We urge you to uphold the sanctity of justice and public safety by rejecting any reconsideration of Santosh Kumar Singh's premature release. He must serve his life sentence in full, without remission, in accordance with both the law and the expectations of a society that still seeks justice for Priyadarshini Mattoo," the letter said. (ANI) Odisha Congress chief Bhakta Charan Das on Wednesday severely lambasted the BJP government in Odisha over atrocities against women in the state. Das also asked the main opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), to move a no-confidence motion against the state government and assured his party's support for it. "Atrocities are being committed against women in Odisha. We have seen many incidents. The central and state governments are not taking responsibility and feeling ashamed. BJD, the opposition party, should move a no-confidence motion against the BJP government and Congress will support it," Das told ANI. The opposition in Odisha has criticised the BJP-led state government over a recent surge in crimes against women, which have drawn significant public attention. Earlier on Tuesday, reacting to the arrest of Congress student leader Udit Pradhan for allegedly raping a 19-year-old woman, Odisha Pradesh Congress President Bhakta Charan Das said that the party has suspended him with immediate effect and reaffirmed its "zero tolerance" policy towards crimes against women. Speaking to ANI, Das said, "We have taken immediate action and suspended him with immediate effect till the inquiry is over. The Congress Party has been fighting against the atrocities against women. We will keep fighting against this until it is over in Odisha. We have zero tolerance against this." As per the police, the incident happened on Friday night when the girl was allegedly given an intoxicating substance in a drink by the accused before he allegedly committed the offence. The incident reportedly took place in a hotel in Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar. Police said, "There has been an allegation by a girl student about giving an intoxicating substance in a drink and then of rape in a hotel against one Udit Pradhan." Odisha Police had arrested Udit Pradhan, President of the Odisha National Students' Union of India (NSUI), Congress party's student wing, in connection with the alleged rape of a student in Bhubaneswar, according to the Odisha Police Commissionerate. "On the basis of the report submitted by the victim, an FIR has been registered at the Mancheswar Police Station and the accused, Udit Pradhan, has been arrested, Police said. Police said, "There has been an allegation by a girl student about giving an intoxicating substance in a drink and then of rape in a hotel against one Udit Pradhan." Pradhan has been suspended from the position of President of the Odisha National Students' Union of India (NSUI) with immediate effect, as per a statement issued by the NSUI National President. (ANI) Congress leader Shama Mohamed launched a strong attack on the BJP-led NDA government over Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar on Wednesday, saying there is no transparency within the Election Commission of India and they are fooling the public. Speaking to ANI, Mohamed said, "...There is no transparency in the Election Commission of India, and we are asking for time from the Election Commission of India regarding some anomalies, but they are not giving us time. This means something is wrong..." She further questioned the decision to begin the SIR process just months ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, alleging political bias. "Why did the Election Commission start the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise three months before the Bihar Assembly elections... The Election Commission of India is fooling the public..." she told ANI. Earlier in the day, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi hit out at the BJP-led NDA government over Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar, accusing it of "snatching" people's right to vote. Terming the electoral roll revision in Bihar as "Vote Chori", Gogoi said that the government does not want a discussion on the issue during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament. Alleging the revision was an "attack" on democracy, the Congress leader said, "...If we don't protect people's right to vote, then how will democracy stay alive? ...They don't want discussion on this 'vote chori'. BJP is attacking democracy once again and snatching people's right to vote." Meanwhile, amid continued uproar and protests from the Opposition MPs on the third day of the monsoon session, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have been adjourned till July 24. Both Houses will again meet at 11 am on Thursday. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced major disruptions amid Opposition protest over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls being undertaken by the Election Commission (EC) in Bihar ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, Operation Sindoor, the Pahalgam attack and US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of brokering peace between India and Pakistan. (ANI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced a major initiative aimed at equipping youth in the state with foreign language skills to enhance their prospects for overseas employment. The state government is set to launch the Chief Minister's Foreign Language Initiative for Global Human Talent (CM-FLIGHT), which will focus on providing structured foreign language training, including preparation up to the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N2 level. According to a release, the decision was taken during the state cabinet meeting held in Dibrugarh on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the state cabinet has approved launching a new scheme, namely the Chief Minister's Foreign Language Initiative for Global Human Talent (CM-FLIGHT). "A pilot project will be implemented in the current financial year through the agencies--ASEAN ONE Co. Ltd., Jaceex Ventures LLP, Meiko Career Partners Co. Ltd. These agencies will impart Japanese language training and facilitate overseas employment of Assamese youth under Japan's Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa program. It will create significant employment opportunities for the local population by facilitating overseas placements. It will help in addressing the issue of unemployment and underemployment in Assam by providing access to the international job market. Under this scheme, the government will offer a Rs 1.5 lakh subsidy to successful applicants to undergo training in the Japanese language. On completion, they will also be placed on short-term paid work opportunities in Japan," CM Sarma said. Meanwhile, the state cabinet has accorded financial sanction of Rs 150 crore under the Mission for Overall Improvement of Thanas for Responsive Image (MOITRI) scheme. "In the 1st phase of the scheme, 73 numbers of Police Stations have been completed, and in the 2nd phase, 46 numbers of Police Stations have been taken up, out of which 31 numbers of Police Stations and 1 cyber Police Station have been completed and works for the remaining Police Stations are in progress. Cabinet noted that infrastructure worth Rs 1,500 crore has been constructed for the Assam Police, which is unprecedented," said a press release issued by CMO Assam. The state cabinet has approved the upgradation and redesignation of existing sanctioned posts of Assam Police as Co-District Superintendent of Police (CDSP) to create another 10 posts for the smooth functioning of the police administration. The 10 new co-districts have been notified by the General Administration Department and shall be functional by 15th August 2025. The state cabinet decided that newly created Co-Districts will be inaugurated on 12th August 2025, and 10 cabinet ministers will preside over the respective inaugural functions. The state cabinet has approved the Collective Infrastructure Development of Apartment Buildings through funding from MLALADS and the United Fund to ensure government welfare schemes reach the residents of these apartments. "The Eligibility criteria for getting benefits under the Scheme are - the minimum number of apartments in a building should be 16, the society must be registered under the Societies Registration Act, at least 80 per cent of the apartments should be occupied. On the other hand, the activities will be undertaken under this scheme as - critical infrastructure improvements such as repair of internal roads, installation of proper drainage systems; provisions of uninterrupted water supply; improved electricity connections; development of common amenities like parks, community halls; security systems, and disaster management works as advised by the DDMA; any other common maintenance work," said in the press release. The state cabinet has approved the formation of a Section 8 company by incorporation name "Assam Innovation and Startup Foundation" under the Department of Innovation, Incubation and Startups (DIIS) to promote innovation and Startup related activities in Assam. (ANI) Following a series of actions by Republican lawmakers and officials to deter efforts to release the files on Jeffrey Epstein, political strategists are warning that they will likely still have to face the pressures while on break. House Speaker Mike Johnson shut down the House floor until September amid relentless calls to release the Epstein files and for Trump administration officials to testify about how they came to their conclusion in a memo released earlier this month declaring that the disgraced financier killed himself and had no client list. But while Johnson's move helped take some of the pressure off Republicans, strategists and advisers now look to town halls, where they believe constituents may be likely to continue the demands to release the files, as reported by Politico's Playbook. "I don't suppose that this is the number-one issue for voters in America by any stretch, but it may be the number-one issue for the loudest voters," Brendan Buck, a former top adviser to previous Republican speakers, told the outlet. "It's very clear that there are going to be a lot of people asking a lot of questions over recess when they get back home." Town halls became a hot spot earlier this year as constituents across the country aired their grievances about policies by the Trump administration, including mass federal layoffs and parts of the "Big, Beautiful Bill," including cuts to Medicaid. At one point, Republicans were recommended to stop attending town halls due to the intense backlash they faced, with clips from the meetings amassing thousands of views online. The town halls' potential has not gone unnoticed by Democrats, who are eyeing to use that to their advantage. Video trackers and Epstein-focused volunteers are some of the strategies by liberal super PAC American Bridge 21st Century to keep the momentum going and to not ease up on lawmakers, the PAC's President Pat Dennis told Playbook. One Republican strategist told the outlet that "anything that knocks" Trump off his focus of delivering on the "Big, Beautiful Bill" and forces Republicans "onto the defensive is a hindrance." The Epstein files have notably divided the MAGA fanbase, with several influencers and conspiracy theorists who were vocal Trump supporters have expressed outrage at its handling. Even some Republican lawmakers have pushed back against the administration, calling for the release of the files. Pressure against Trump ramped up following a report by the Wall Street Journal alleging that Trump sent Epstein a birthday message with a drawing of a naked woman. The president has repeatedly denied the report's claims and filed a lawsuit against the publication. Originally published on Latin Times Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed happiness over the payment of Rs 1,600 crore as the state's pension share to Uttarakhand by the Uttar Pradesh government for the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23 and thanked the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, said a statement from CMO. The Chief Minister has stated that, due to improved coordination and ongoing dialogue between the two states, pending issues regarding assets and liabilities are being resolved expeditiously. It is noteworthy that for the apportionment of expenditure on pension in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23, the Accountant General, Uttar Pradesh had estimated a liability of Rs 952.26 crore for the year 2021-22 and Rs 1,309 crore for the period 2022-23 on the Government of Uttar Pradesh. In relation to the total liability of Rs 2,261.26 crores calculated for the said two financial years for pension expenditure, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued an order to transfer the amount of Rs 1,600 crores to the Uttarakhand government through an inter-state adjustment with the Reserve Bank of India in July 2025. Prior to this, Dhami stated that any irregularity would not be tolerated in welfare programs, such as scholarships, in the state and vowed to take strict action against anyone found guilty in this case. Taking cognisance of the serious cases of irregularities committed by institutions registered on the National Scholarship Portal and the embezzlement of scholarship amounts through the use of fake documents, Chief Minister Dhami has given instructions to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT). During the preliminary investigation, it was discovered that some institutions had received minority scholarships based on fraudulent documents, including some madrasas, Sanskrit schools, and other educational institutions. The Chief Minister stated that the corrupt would not be spared. (ANI) Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Election Commission (EC) over the Special Summary Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar, alleging that the poll body is acting contrary to its mandate. MP Yadav criticised the EC for focusing on deleting names from the voter list instead of enrolling new voters. While talking to ANI, Yadav took a jab at EC and said, "The Election Commission's job is not to cut votes, but to add new voters...Today, that which is happening in Bihar will happen in UP tomorrow." Earlier, on Tuesday, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar by the Election Commission (EC) was proof that the "BJP has prepared something big to commit dishonesty on a large scale" in the upcoming Assembly elections in the State. He said, "To win every election, BJP devises a new strategy. Eight crore votes will be done and in one to one-and-half months, you will create a new voter list... In Uttar Pradesh, during the recent by-elections, the police stopped voters with guns. I say with certainty that in Kundarki, if you check the CCTV, you will find the police casting votes. "In Ayodhya, these people lost, so it was necessary to defeat Milkipur."Yadav said, "The Lok Sabha elections were contested recently, and whatever more or less votes are there... There is a different way. But you are making a new voter list. This means BJP has prepared something big to commit dishonesty on a large scale". The Samajwadi Party leader said, "I don't know what kind of machine these BJP people bring to the booths. It can make voter ID cards and Aadhaar cards. So they can make voter ID cards, aadhar cards, and now they are making a new voter list as well." (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday stated that the government has taken strict action against well-planned land jihad in the state and freed more than seven thousand acres of government land from "land jihadis." The Chief Minister said, "The 'land jihad' mafia was occupying precious government lands in the state by wearing green, blue or yellow cloth without any fear. We have taken strict action against this well-planned land Jihad in the state and freed more than seven thousand acres of government land from land jihadis." "Along with this, more than 200 illegal madrasas have been sealed and more than 500 illegal structures have also been removed. Our government is also taking strict action against the elements conspiring to defame Sanatan Dharma. Through 'Operation Kalanemi', those hypocrites and heretics are being arrested who mislead people and hurt the dignity of religion. We will not tolerate such intruders in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand under any circumstances, and will not rest until these people are sent back to where they came from," the Chief Minister said. CM Dhami released the republished edition of the book on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh "Philosophy and Action of RSS for Hind Swaraj" in a program organized at IRDT Auditorium Dehradun. On this occasion, Sarkaryavah of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Dattatreya Hosabale, and nationalist thinker and convener of 'Pragya Pravah' Vishisht Ideological Forum, J Nandkumar were also present. Addressing the program, CM Dhami said that the book "Philosophy and Action of RSS for Hind Swaraj", written by Catholic priest Father Anthony in the year 1951, not only presented an in-depth study of the ideology, organizational structure and functioning of the Sangh, but also worked to explain the basic spirit of "Hind Swaraj" in an integrated manner. The Chief Minister said that he is confident that this book will prove to be helpful in connecting our future generations with our ideological tradition and working style by introducing them to the initial struggles, sacrifice, and penance of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The Chief Minister also said that Father Anthony wrote this book at a time when many kinds of misconceptions and wrong beliefs were being spread in the society about the "Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh." "In that challenging period, Father Anthony wrote with fairness and honesty that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not a communal organisation but a disciplined and spiritually conscious organisation dedicated to nation building. He closely observed discipline, service, dedication and patriotism in the lives of the Sangh workers and made the world aware that this organisation is the real foundation stone of India's reconstruction," he emphasised. CM Dhami stated that Father Anthony wrote that the Sangh is not only working towards restoring the lost prestige of Hinduism but is also engaged in the task of uniting the entire India by ending the evil practices prevalent in the society. The Chief Minister said that when the first Sarsanghchalak, the most revered Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar ji founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in the year 1925, India was not only politically subjugated but was also mentally, culturally, and religiously fragmented. Today, through its hundred years of ascetic journey, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has brought such a divine stream of cultural renaissance, social harmony, self-esteem, and patriotic service in India, which has lit the eternal flame of national consciousness in every corner of the country. He further said that the India that was once suffering from the mentality of slaves today is proud of its cultural values, its traditions, and its scientific outlook; this self-esteem is the result of the penance of the Sangh. The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has entered the Amritkaal of the renaissance of its cultural consciousness. "Our glorious history and cultural heritage, which were neglected for years, are not only being restored today but are also being made the basis of national consciousness. Today, the flag of our Sanatan culture is flying proudly all over the world and India is rapidly moving towards becoming the world leader again by connecting with its roots. The way our religious heritage is being preserved and nurtured is neither past nor future," he said, highlighting India's history and cultural heritage. CM Dhami also said that under the strong leadership of Modi ji, on one hand, the concept of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' is being realized through laws like abolition of Article 370 from Kashmir, the end of the evil practice of triple talaq, Citizenship Amendment and Waqf Amendment. 'At the same time, to fulfill the resolution of Antyodaya, work is also being done to connect the person standing in the last row to the mainstream of development through public welfare schemes like Jan-Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and the Free Ration Scheme,' he added. He added that under the guidance of the Prime Minister, the Uttarakhand government is also continuously working with its "optionless resolve" for the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage of the state. (ANI) Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor on Wednesday staged a protest in Patna, warning that his party would surround Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's residence and the police would not be able to stop them. Kishor said the Bihar government had promised to give Rs 2 lakh each to 94 lakh poor families, but not a single family had received any money so far. Speaking to the media during a sit-in protest near the Bihar Assembly, he said, "We want to peacefully give this memorandum of the people to the Chief Minister that in the last 2 years, he had promised to give 2 lakh to 94 lakh families, but to date not a single family has received a single rupee." He alleged that the government had refused to meet his team, adding that the protest would continue until a government official came forward. "The fight has just begun. Three months are still left... People of Bihar want change and want to remove the corrupt," Kishor said. He challenged the government directly, saying, "They cannot hide in the assembly and behind the police. We will give them a reply that the whole of Bihar will see. We will surround Bihar CM Nitish Kumar in his home, and the police can't do anything..." Earlier in the day, tensions rose in Patna after police allegedly used lathis on protesters, injuring a young supporter of Jan Suraaj. Reacting to the incident, Kishor warned the government that his party would make it difficult for the administration to function across the state if their demands were ignored. He demanded a written reply from the Chief Secretary on the issues raised by his party and said that five senior Jan Suraaj leaders were already in talks with the official. "If you have hit an unarmed man of Suraaj with a stick, I'm sitting right here. This is a restricted area, try to hit me. We will make it difficult for the government to function in the whole of Bihar... You have hit a boy who got injured in his head... Either the Chief Secretary gives us in writing when they will give us the answers, or we won't move from here," he said. The confrontation happened as Jan Suraaj workers tried to march towards the Bihar Assembly. Police set up barricades, leading to a brief scuffle and rising tensions at the protest site. Bihar is expected to go to the polls later this year in October or November, although the Election Commission of India has not yet announced a date. While the NDA -- comprising the BJP, JD(U), and LJP -- will seek to retain power, the INDIA bloc -- which includes the RJD, Congress, and left parties -- will try to unseat Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The current Bihar Assembly has 243 members. The NDA holds 131 seats -- BJP has 80 MLAs, JD(U) has 45, HAM(S) has 4, and there are 2 Independents supporting the alliance. The Opposition's INDIA bloc has 111 members -- RJD has 77 MLAs, Congress 19, CPI(ML) 11, CPI(M) 2, and CPI 2. (ANI) The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), India's largest labour organisation, marked its 70th Foundation Day with a resounding call for reflection, unity, and transformation at a grand ceremony in New Delhi on Wednesday. The year-long celebration, culminating at the Indira Gandhi Stadium's KD Jadhav Wrestling Hall, gathered thousands of workers, dignitaries, and leaders from across the nation, including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak, Dr Mohan Bhagwat, and Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Dr Mohan Bhagwat underscored the BMS journey as a movement "powered by values and vision," highlighting how founder Dattopant Thengadi's ideals faced scepticism in the early days but now stand vindicated after decades of determined effort. He reflected on the importance of aligning organisational systems with values, drawing from anecdotes about the BMS's formative years and its evolution into a platform that champions Parishram (hard work) as a core virtue. Bhagwat addressed the challenges ahead, notably the impact of technological transformation on the workforce. He stressed the need to adapt technology to serve society and labour, without diminishing the dignity of Shram (labour). He called on the BMS to balance labour, industrial, and national interests as new technologies reshape employment and work culture. Union Minister Mandaviya praised BMS for its distinctive ethos, stating that while many labour movements focus on protest, BMS focuses on nation-building. He noted the BMS's leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and its role in restoring dignity to India's workforce. Ravindra Himte, BMS General Secretary, recounted the union's steadfast commitment to collective decision-making and highlighted mass outreach initiatives, such as the 'Shramik Sampark Abhiyan' and women's and youth conferences. These efforts, he said, have strengthened grassroots engagement and furthered the BMS mission of integrating national, industrial, and labour interests. BMS President Hiranmay Pandya described the anniversary as a milestone to chart the future. He emphasised the union's impressive growth--active across 30 regions, gaining annual recognition for over 150 unions, and achieving significant female representation at the ILO. He maintained that BMS is more than a trade union; it is an ideological movement devoted to nation-building and worker empowerment. The event also saw the launch of the 'E-Karyakarta' digital app to enhance internal communications, the screening of a documentary on BMS's legacy, and the release of the special 'Laborious Resetting' edition of Organiser Weekly. BMS leaders reiterated their commitment to principles enshrined in Bharatiya tradition: dignified labour and just rewards, regardless of sector or background. As V. Bhagaiah and Indu Jamwal noted, BMS's message, "Workers, Unite the World," signals a uniquely Indian perspective that values both collaboration and accountability. The celebrations included the felicitation of veteran activists and international participation from a Nepalese delegation, reflecting BMS's growing global stature. The event reached a wider audience through live telecasts at 110 locations nationwide. Seventy years after its humble beginnings, BMS stands as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and visionary leadership. As it sets sights on BMS@100, the organisation pledges to continue leading constructive, inclusive change for workers, industries, and the nation. This milestone renews its mission: not just to champion workers' rights, but to unite and uplift society through enduring values and forward-thinking action. (ANI) The Supreme Court of India has granted bail to Suraj Chokhani in connection with the Mahadev Betting App money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Raipur. The case, considered one of the largest in Indian money laundering history, has its origins in Chhattisgarh and involves a complex financial web allegedly orchestrated across borders. Suraj Chokhani, a resident of Kolkata, was arrested by the ED in March 2024 on allegations that he facilitated the laundering of proceeds of crime generated through the Mahadev App. According to the ED, these illicit funds were routed into another betting platform and subsequently invested through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Indian companies reportedly managed by Chokhani. The funds were then directed into the Indian stock market. The ED had earlier frozen demat accounts of eight such companies--collectively valued at 400 crore. Appearing on behalf of Chokhani, advocate Vijay Aggarwal, along with advocate Yash Agrawal, argued that their client had been in custody for nearly 16 months. Citing Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the fundamental right to a speedy trial, they contended that bail was warranted given the unlikely commencement of trial proceedings anytime soon. Vijay Aggarwal further argued for parity, stating that other co-accused, including Girish Talreja--alleged owner of the betting site 'Lotus365.com' and accused of laundering 2,400 crore--had been granted bail in January 2025. He emphasised that Chokhani's alleged involvement was comparatively minor, limited to managing companies and not owning or operating betting platforms directly. The defence also challenged the reliability of evidence, pointing out that much of ED's case hinged on statements made by co-accused individuals, which are not admissible in court and are now under retraction. Additionally, Aggarwal asserted that the constitutional right under Article 21 overrides the statutory bar to bail under Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), referencing Supreme Court rulings in KA Najeeb and V Senthil Balaji to strengthen the case. It was also argued that the ED has yet to secure cognisance for the second, third, and fourth supplementary complaints--one of which names Chokhani as an accused for the first time. Aggarwal alleged that the ED is continuing to expand its investigation indefinitely by repeatedly amending the ECIR and adding more scheduled offences, thereby prolonging trial commencement. He also stated that the alleged proceeds of crime had already been secured by freezing the demat accounts, reducing any imminent threat of tampering. Opposing the bail, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, argued that the magnitude and international scope of the alleged money laundering--spanning operations in Dubai and across India--warranted Chokhani's continued detention. After hearing both sides, the Supreme Court granted bail, taking note of the extended duration of custody, the fundamental right to a speedy trial, and the absence of trial proceedings. The Court imposed conditions, including a ban on committing similar offences, weekly appearances at the Raipur trial court, and surrender of passports. It also granted liberty to ED to seek bail cancellation in case of violation of terms. The apex court clarified that any requests for relaxation of bail conditions need not be brought before it and may be made directly to the trial court. (ANI) Delhi's Karkardooma court has recently, in a Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act case, granted liberty to a widow to reside in the matrimonial home along with her minor child. This house was shared by the in-laws and the woman along with her husband when he was alive. She was allegedly thrown out of the matrimonial house in 2018. Her husband expired in November 2015. She alleged physical assault and demand for dowry by the in-laws. Judicial Magistrate of First Class (JMFC-Mahila Court) Sonika on July 19, 2025, granted liberty to the complainant woman to reside in the matrimonial shared household along with her minor child. The court ordered, "Thus, the petitioner is at liberty to reside alongwith her minor child in the aforesaid shared household and the respondents are hereby restrained from dispossessing the petitioner without due process of law." However, the court has declined to grant maintenance from her in-laws in the absence of any property or business jointly owned by her husband and other in-laws. While dealing with the issue of maintenance, the court observed that the petitioner had not placed any document to show that any of the respondents had any joint property/business with the deceased husband of the complainant. "In the absence of any joint/coparcenary property, the respondents cannot be burdened with the liability to maintain the petitioner," JMFC said in the order passed on July 19. The court also noted that the prayer of maintenance was not preferred in the application for residence. Advocate Manish Bhadauria, counsel for the complainant, submitted that in August 2018, the respondents threw the petitioner out of the shared household in wearing clothes. "Thus, it is prayed that the present application be allowed and the petitioner be granted the relief of maintenance and residence," counsel prayed. On the other hand, advocate Praveen Goswami, counsel for respondents, submitted that no cruelty was ever committed by respondents. It was further submitted that the petitioner had not specified any date or time when she was harassed by any of the respondents, and the allegations levelled in the petition as well as the present application are omnibus and general in nature. (ANI) Former Union Minister and BJP leader Smriti Irani has dismissed suggestions of retirement from politics, saying that he journey is far from over and hinting at an earlier-than-expected comeback. In an exclusive interview with Aaj Tak, Irani reflected on her political career, addressed speculation surrounding her 2024 Lok Sabha loss from Amethi, and spoke about her return to television after more than a decade, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani. Responding to speculation about her political comeback, Irani said, "Why talk about 2029? Who knows what BJP will say in 2029? Why not 2026 or even 2025?" She emphasised that despite not being in the Lok Sabha, she remains actively engaged in public life. "People talk about me during mayoral elections, assembly elections, and parliamentary elections -- because my name is Smriti Irani. I have been an MP three times, served as a minister in five departments. At 49, people are just starting their careers. I have only just begun," she said. Irani said that it was for the BJP to decide when and where she will serve next, but added that she has proven her competence in Parliament. On her 2024 Lok Sabha loss from Amethi, Irani pointed out that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi chose not to contest from the constituency this time. "Now, it's not my responsibility to be aggressive toward Rahul Gandhi. In 2024, the Gandhi family refused to face me. I can't chase after them," she said. Citing political history, she said losing from Amethi is not new for big leaders. "Sharad Yadav lost from Amethi, Menaka Gandhi lost. The Gandhi family only chose that seat due to favourable social equations," Irani said. She added that her defeat would have been more painful had she not worked extensively in Amethi between 2014 and 2019. "From cleaning drains to building one lakh homes and setting up a medical college, I lived among the people and worked at the grassroots," she said. "I don't live life in a limited or narrow way. If life is lived from only one perspective, then what kind of life is that? I entered national politics because I felt that there are many issues in our society that need attention -- whether through politics or through the media," she added. In a major development that made her fans happy, Irani is making her acting comeback after a decade and a half, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani in the second term of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi." After 25 years, India's iconic daily soap is returning with the original cast, including Smriti Irani, who became a household name with her character Tulsi. While the release date of 'Kyunki...Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' 2 has not been disclosed yet; the first look of Smriti as Tulsi was leaked recently, leaving fans nostalgic. "Why did I decide to return to acting? The answer may sound childish, but because I wanted to. I've always been like this," she said with a laugh. "That show brought a revolution in television. Back then, there were no women producing series, nor were there many women leading as central characters. We defined television in a unique way," she added. Acknowledging how the medium has evolved, Irani expressed excitement about reconnecting with her audience, saying, "I was Tulsi for eight years. Television has changed a lot since then, but the bond with the audience remains." When asked about her aggressive demeanour in politics, she said, "A person becomes aggressive when their beliefs are challenged. You saw me angry in Parliament when derogatory remarks were made against President Droupadi Murmu. I was angry while defending the dignity of the President of India." "I joined politics because I felt there were many issues in our society that needed attention. Whether it's through politics or media, if you've earned a platform where people listen, only a fool would waste that opportunity," she added. (ANI) The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested four terrorists with alleged links to Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), officials said on Wednesday. The suspects were accused of using Instagram to incite jihad, spread anti-India propaganda, and promote terrorism, officials said. The arrests were made on 21 and 22 July 2025 from Ahmedabad, Modasa, Delhi, and Noida, after the ATS acted on a tip received on June 10, regarding multiple Instagram accounts involved in extremist activity, said the release. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Harsh Upadhyay, intelligence revealed that the Instagram accounts were used to spread inflammatory content and AQIS propaganda, calling for violence against non-believers and Indian democratic institutions. The arrested accused have been identified as Mohd Faiq from Delhi, Mohd Fardeen from Ahmedabad, Sefullah Kureshi from Modasa in Aravalli, and Zeeshan Ali from Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Mohd Faiq, who was arrested from the Chandni Chowk area of Delhi, has had a search conducted at his residence. Delhi Police left his house along with the members of his family. The Delhi Police will now interrogate his parents as well and gather information. The officials said that the suspects actively shared content promoting "Ghazwa-e-Hind", a radical ideology aiming to establish a Sharia-based Caliphate in India. They encouraged armed rebellion against the Indian government and were allegedly trying to attract youth toward terrorism. "During the search, AQIS literature, a sword, and videos promoting jihad and violence were recovered from the possession of the accused," ATS said. One video recovered from Fardeen Shaikh's phone showed him waving the sword and chanting, "This was the only thing missing; now it's complete. Allahu Akbar." ATS said that similar jihadi videos and fatwas for armed rebellion were found on the phones of all four accused. The ATS also discovered that Mohammad Faiq had been collaborating with Pakistani Instagram handles such as gujjar_sab.111 and M Salauddin Siddiqui 1360, further amplifying the threat. The arrests were made by coordinated teams of the Gujarat ATS under the supervision of SP K. Siddharth, with support from central agencies, the Delhi Police, the Delhi Special Cell, and the UP ATS. The ATS registered a case under multiple sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967--Sections 13, 18, 38, 39, and sections 113, 152, 196, and 61 of the Indian Penal Code, 2023. Officials said, "All four accused have been granted 14-day police remand" for further investigation. The ATS also initiated a probe into 25 additional suspicious accounts, and data from 62 related Instagram profiles is being analysed. Further Investigations are still ongoing. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has congratulated and thanked the entire government, administration, police department, and all the personnel for successful conclusion of the Kanwar Mela 2025. The Chief Minister stated that all concerned departments worked in coordination and alertness to ensure the safe movement, a well-organised system, and better management of the devotees, who numbered in the millions, resulting in the successful completion of this huge religious event, a release said. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is Devbhoomi, and devotees from the country and abroad participate in large numbers in the religious events organised here. In such events, well-planned management of security, traffic, medical, sanitation and other facilities is necessary, which was done commendably by all. The Chief Minister, in particular, praised the cooperation of the State Police, Disaster Management Team, Health Department, Municipal Corporation, Transport Department, voluntary organisations, and the general public, stating that this collective effort further strengthens the state's religious and cultural identity. Earlier, on Wednesday, Chief Minister extended wishes on the occasion of Shravan Shivratri, which falls on July 23. In a post on X, CM Dhami said, "Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the residents of the state on the occasion of Shivratri in the holy month of Shravan. I pray to the God of Gods, Mahadev, for the happiness, prosperity and auspicious life of all of you." Devotees offered prayers in large numbers in different parts of the country today on the occasion of Shravan Shivratri. Shravan, the fifth month in the Hindu calendar, is considered to be the most auspicious month of the year. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this holy month, devotees undertake fasts, offer prayers, chant Shiva mantras, sing devotional bhajans, and perform Rudrabhishek, the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Lingam. Many devotees observe strict fasts, abstaining from grains and consuming only fruits, milk, and specific foods permitted during fasting. (ANI) President Donald Trump stopped an interview less than a minute into the conversation after the interviewer asked him about resurfaced images of disgraced New York financier Jeffrey Epstein attending the 47th President's second wedding. Trump was being interviewed by CNN reporter Andrew Kaczynski on Tuesday when he hung up after just 30 seconds, directly after Kaczynski asked about photos showing that Epstein was present at Trump's 1993 wedding to Marla Maples. The photos depict Trump and Epstein at Trump's Plaza Hotel Wedding. In another photo, Epstein is seen speaking to the President and his children at a Harley-Davidson cafe event also in 1993. The images were shared by CNN's KFile. The photos have purportedly "never been seen before," according to CNN anchor Erin Burnett, who discussed their publication on Tuesday night. Kaczynski also discussed his interview with Trump while in conversation with Burnett, indicating that it was very brief. "We were not on the phone very long. I think our call was about 30 seconds or so. But when I asked him about the wedding photo, he said he sort of paused for a second and then said, 'you've got to be kidding me' before calling CNN 'fake news' and then hanging up on me," he said. "These are nothing more than out-of-context frame grabs of innocuous videos and pictures of widely attended events to disgustingly infer something nefarious," said White House Communications Director Steven Cheung in a statement. "The fact is that the President kicked him out of his club for being a creep. This is nothing more than a continuation of the fake news stories concocted by the Democrats and the liberal media." Originally published on Latin Times Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will dedicate development projects worth Rs 358.37 crore to Banaskantha district from the border village of Suigam in North Gujarat on Thursday, according to an official statement from the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office (CMO). After inaugurating and laying foundation stones for these projects, he is also scheduled to interact with Border Security Force (BSF) jawans at the Nadabet Border Outpost and offer prayers at the Nadeshwari Mata Temple. During Operation Sindoor, BSF jawans bravely thwarted Pakistan's attacks on Gujarat's borders. At that time, local villagers followed the government's guidelines diligently, making significant contributions to the strategic efforts during the conflict. The villagers praised the bravery of India's soldiers and hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a true hero for the success of Operation Sindoor, the statement said. Vishaji Rajput, a resident of Suigam, stated that after the Pahalgam attack, Prime Minister responded decisively through Operation Sindoor, sending a clear message that India will not tolerate aggression. He praised the Prime Minister as a true national leader and commended the armed forces for their bravery. He added that the local community followed government directives diligently and helped raise public awareness. Indrasinh Vikramsinh Rajput, a resident of the village, stated that their village is situated right along the border. During Operation Sindoor, the BSF, police, and administration provided proper guidance. We followed the guidelines strictly, and the youth of the village said, "Just say the word, and we will come forward to fight." We are filled with patriotism and have no fear. Evil intentions must be crushed--and that is exactly what our jawans did. Another resident, Lakhmanbhai Chaudhary, appreciated and expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the brave soldiers of India for their role in Operation Sindoor. BSF Assistant Commandant Santosh Kumar stated, "During Operation Sindoor, the Border Security Forces demonstrated extraordinary courage and strategic insight. We not only monitored every enemy movement closely but also ensured complete security in border areas through swift and effective action. Our soldiers fulfilled their duties with discipline and dedication even in adverse conditions. The civil administration of Gujarat provided excellent support to the Border Security Forces during Operation Sindoor. Additionally, the administration made extensive arrangements for medical assistance, significantly enhancing BSF's field readiness and agility." He further mentioned that during Operation Sindoor, full cooperation was also received from border villages and their sarpanches, which greatly helped the BSF in establishing local coordination. This trust and cooperation between the Border Security Forces and the general public is our greatest strength. The Border Security Forces will always remain dedicated to serving the nation. Jai Hind! Following Operation Sindoor, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will visit the border today to meet and interact with India's brave soldiers and BSF officers. During Operation Sindoor, exemplary coordination was observed between the Kutch Border Range Police, the BSF, the Air Force, the Army, the Coast Guard, and all other security agencies. (ANI) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday reiterated the state government's commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery in the state and urged citizens to make full use of the available medical infrastructure, including super-speciality services and facilities for kidney transplantation. Speaking during the 49th episode of the Mukhyamantri Samipesu at his official residence, Saha addressed a range of public grievances and took immediate steps to provide assistance, especially in the health and employment sectors. Highlighting the state's medical achievements, the Saha noted that three successful kidney transplants have already been performed in government hospitals. "People should come forward and use the medical facilities that are available within the state. We are committed to providing both financial and medical support," said Saha. Among those who sought help was Motilal Debbarma of Ujan Abhaynagar, who approached Saha for assistance with his ailing son's treatment. The Chief Minister, who is also the health minister of the state, directed the Health Department and the Social Welfare and Social Education Department to provide both medical and financial aid. In another case, Jayanti Pal (Das) of Rangamura, Belonia, sought help for her husband's heart condition. The Chief Minister immediately contacted the Medical Superintendent of GB Hospital and ensured that her husband would receive free medicines. Responding to a similar plea from Sukul Mia of Sabroom, whose wife is suffering from a kidney ailment and requires a transplant, the Chief Minister reviewed her medical documents and encouraged the family to pursue treatment within the state itself. The Chief Minister also responded to requests from Moushumi Bhattacharya of Agartala and Jharna Das of Kumari Tilla, who sought eye treatment for their sons, as well as Bhabatosh Sarkar of Chailengta and Shankar Deb of Milan Sangh, who sought medical aid for their brothers. He assured them of full support and encouraged them to take advantage of the Chief Minister's Jan Arogya Yojana. The session was attended by key officials, including Secretary P K Chakraborty, Director of Social Welfare and Social Education Department Tapan Kumar Das, Director of Health Services Tapan Majumdar, Medical Superintendent of GB Hospital Shankar Chakraborty, IGM Hospital's Debashree Debbarma, and Shirmani Debbarma of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Hospital. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appealed to the people of the state to actively participate in the democratic process by voting in the three-tier Panchayat elections on Thursday, said a statement from CMO. CM Dhami said that panchayats are the foundation of rural development and the participation of every voter in these elections is very important. The Chief Minister added, "The strength of democracy depends on the awareness and participation of the voter. Development schemes are conducted in rural areas through the three-tier Panchayat system." The Chief Minister has appealed to the voters of the state, especially the youth, women and senior citizens, to strengthen democracy by reaching the polling stations in maximum numbers. He said that every vote of every voter can play a decisive role in shaping the future of the state, according to the statement. The State Election Commission in Uttarakhand had issued a notification regarding the conduct of panchayat elections in 12 districts of the state, except Haridwar. According to the notification, the three-tier panchayat elections will be held in two phases in the state. The notification signed by Sushil Kumar, Uttarakhand State Election Commissioner, comes after the Nainital High Court on Friday permitted the continuation of the panchayat election process, lifting its earlier stay order issued on June 23. Voting under the first phase will take place on July 24, and voting under the second phase will take place on July 28. The counting of votes will be done on July 31. Earlier in the day, Uttarakhand CM Dhami expressed happiness over the payment of Rs 1,600 crore as the state's pension share to Uttarakhand by the Uttar Pradesh government for the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23 and thanked the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, said a statement from CMO. The Chief Minister has stated that, due to improved coordination and ongoing dialogue between the two states, pending issues regarding assets and liabilities are being resolved expeditiously. It is noteworthy that for the apportionment of expenditure on pension in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23, the Accountant General, Uttar Pradesh, had estimated a liability of Rs 952.26 crore for the year 2021-22 and Rs 1,309 crore for the period 2022-23 on the Government of Uttar Pradesh. In relation to the total liability of Rs 2,261.26 crores calculated for the said two financial years for pension expenditure, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued an order to transfer the amount of Rs 1,600 crores to the Uttarakhand government through an inter-state adjustment with the Reserve Bank of India in July 2025. (ANI) The Indian Navy conducted a one-day shipbuilding seminar titled 'Nation Building Through Shipbuilding' on Wednesday at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment, a release said. According to the release, the event was organised by the Warship Design Bureau and saw active participation from top government officials, naval leadership, industry stakeholders, and experts from the maritime and defence sectors. Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, delivered the keynote address for the event virtually. During his address, CNS highlighted the Indian Navy's Vision 2047, which aims to transform into an 'Aatmanirbhar' force through a leadership-driven focus on invention, innovation, indigenousization, and integration of niche, disruptive, and emerging technologies, as per the release. The CNS underscored the milestone of delivering the 100th indigenously designed ship, not just a numerical achievement for the Navy, but a symbolic testament to our journey towards maritime self-reliance, technological excellence, and strategic foresight. The seminar drew participation from stakeholders representing the Government of India (GoI), the Indian Navy, Shipyards, Industry, Classification Societies, and Academia. Discussions were held on policy aspects related to shipbuilding with the aim of enabling cohesive and progress-oriented brainstorming on various aspects of shipbuilding. The Shipbuilding seminar also provided an outlook on the futuristic technologies being implemented globally and the challenges faced by Indian shipyards and the industry in delivering ships that meet global standards. The seminar highlighted the importance of the shipbuilding industry to nation-building and the potential opportunities that can be capitalised on for growth in this sector. The seminar facilitated effective interactions and fruitful brainstorming sessions with the senior hierarchy of the MoD, MoPSW, MSDE, Indian Navy, Shipyards, Classification Societies, and Academia. The occasion also highlighted the design expertise at Warship Design Bureau and its accumulated experience of over sixty years in designing technologically potent warships, spanning 20 designs and more than 100 vessels. The seminar featured four technical sessions focusing on policy frameworks, indigenous ship design, emerging technologies, skill development, and strategies to enhance ease of doing business in shipbuilding. According to the release, eminent experts shared insights to strengthen India's maritime industrial base and transform the ecosystem into a global powerhouse. The seminar's major outcomes included policy interventions, requirements, and techniques for upskilling human resources and incorporating contemporary design practices, thereby making the industry globally competitive. (ANI) The 16-year-old girl, who sustained 75% burns after being set on fire by unidentified miscreants at Balanga in Odisha's Puri, remained critical at AIIMS, New Delhi, said the hospital. According to the press release issued by AIIMS Delhi, she has undergone surgery for the management of deep burns. She is currently on oxygen support and remains in a critical condition. "The patient, a 16-year-old girl who sustained 75% burns on 19th July 2025, was airlifted from AIIMS Bhubaneswar and received at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, AIIMS New Delhi, on 20th July 2025. Day 5 of extensive deep burns. She has undergone surgery for the management of deep burns," the press release stated. "She is currently on oxygen support and remains in a critical condition. A dedicated team of doctors is closely monitoring her progress," it added. She was airlifted to AIIMS, New Delhi, on Sunday (July 20, 2025) for advanced medical treatment. Earlier, a Biju Janata Dal (BJD) delegation comprising Rajya Sabha MPs Sasmit Patra, Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, Sulata Deo and Niranjan Bishi visited AIIMS here on Monday and met with the 15-year-old girl, who was set ablaze in Puri. The delegation interacted with the attending doctors to enquire about the victim's medical condition and ongoing treatment. They also met with the family members of the victim and assured them of all possible support. The minor girl, who suffered 75% burn injuries, was airlifted to AIIMS Delhi on Sunday. The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Balanda police station in the Nimapada block of Puri district. According to her cousin, the 16-year-old girl, who had gone out with friends, was abducted and taken to the riverside, where she was set on fire by unidentified miscreants. Severely burnt, she managed to reach a nearby house from where she was rushed to the hospital. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday said that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of this incident. "Whoever is responsible will be caught. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of this incident and to determine whether any conspiracy was involved. The government will ensure strict punishment under the law," the Chief Minister had said. The incident has come into light a few days after the self-immolation case of a female student at Balasore's FM (Auto) college. The student had attempted self-immolation on July 12 on the college campus, sustaining over 90 per cent burn injuries, and succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 14. (ANI) Sharad Pawar-led NCP leader and MLA Rohit Pawar has raised serious allegations regarding a recent firing incident in Daund taluka of Pune district, claiming that a relative of a sitting MLA from the ruling party was involved in the episode. He also accused the police of being under political pressure and attempting to suppress the case. The incident occurred on Monday night between 10:30 and 11:00 PM at the New Ambika Kala Kendra, an art centre located in Wakhari, Daund Tahseel of Pune district, during a dance performance. According to reports, the brother of a ruling party MLA allegedly opened fire inside the premises, leading to chaos and injuries. A young woman was reportedly hurt in the incident. Taking to social media platform X, Rohit Pawar stated, "A young woman was injured in a shooting incident at an art centre in Daund by the brother of a ruling MLA from Pune district. Instead of identifying the culprits behind the indiscriminate firing, the police are reportedly working under pressure to hush up the matter." He further questioned whether justice would be served. "Will action be taken against the accused? Or will he go unpunished just because he belongs to the ruling party? What kind of power play is this? The police must act impartially and uphold the law, without bowing to political influence," Pawar added. Meanwhile, Additional Superintendent of Police Ganesh Biradar addressed the media and provided updates on the investigation. An FIR has been lodged at the Yavat Police Station against four individuals -- Babasaheb Mandekar, Ganpat Jagtap, Chandrakant Marne, and one unidentified person. "We are questioning some individuals as part of the probe. Police are also analysing CCTV footage available. Action will be taken against whoever is found to be the culprit. There is no delay in the investigation ..The police are following all the procedures as per law," Biradar said. (ANI) Amid ongoing discussions surrounding the appointment of a new Vice President of India, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has expressed support for Bandaru Dattatraya, former Haryana Governor, as a potential Vice President of India. If approached formally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Reddy said he would urge support for Dattatraya, describing him as a "decent man" and a deserving candidate from Telangana. Speaking to reporters, Reddy said, "If Modi ji writes to me, I would definitely go to him and say that he (Bandaru Dattatraya) is from Telangana and he is a decent man. I will try my best to help him. But I cannot make a promise; this has to be discussed at the AICC level. AICC has to decide all these things. This is not in my purview. But definitely on behalf of Telangana, I will definitely request my leadership." Revanth Reddy expressed disappointment over Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation as Vice President, calling it unfortunate, and reiterated that the next Vice President should ideally be from Telangana. CM Reddy also highlighted that when Bandaru Dattatraya was a Union minister, his position was given to G Kishan Reddy. "I do not know why Dhankhar ji resigned. It is unfortunate. Vice President of India should be from Telangana. Last time, there were discussions that Venkaiah Naidu would be made the President, but there was injustice, and he was sent back from Delhi. A Telugu-speaking man was sent back to his home. So, to correct that, Bandaru Dattatraya was given the responsibility of Haryana Governor.", Reddy said. He further claimed that the BJP replaced OBC leader Bandi Sanjay as Telangana party president with Brahmin leader Ramchander Rao. "When he was the Union Minister, his post was handed over to G Kishan Reddy. Bandi Sanjay was the president (of Telangana BJP), but now, a Brahmin, Ramchander Rao, has been given the responsibility. So, all OBCs in South, especially Telangana, were reduced in stature by the NDA. 100 khoon maaf karne ke liye (for pardoning 100 killings), it would be good if Bandaru Dattatraya is made the Vice President...," he added further. The remarks come amid speculation over the NDA's choice for the next Vice President following Dhankhar's unexpected resignation. Dhankhar resigned from his post on Monday evening "to prioritise health care and abide by medical advice". "To prioritise health care and abide by medical advice, I hereby resign as the Vice President of India, effective immediately, in accordance with Article 67(a) of the constitution," Dhankhar said in his letter. "I extend my deepest gratitude to Your Excellency - the Hon'ble President of India for her unwavering support and the soothing, wonderful working relationship we maintained during my tenure," he added. Dhankhar also expressed his deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers. "Prime Minister's cooperation and support have been invaluable, and I have learned much during my time in office," he said. (ANI) Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Britain, Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami on Tuesday said "substantive negotiations" completed on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and the "scrubbing work is underway." Doraiswami said that FTA is poised for a significant milestone in bilateral trade relations between the two nations. Speaking to ANI ahead of Prime Minister Modi's official visit to the UK, Doraiswami highlighted the advancements in the FTA process, noting that the "scrubbing work" is currently underway, which involves finalising the legal text of the agreement, a critical step before signing. "The free trade agreement ...essentially the substantive negotiations finished on the 6th of May. The scrubbing work is underway. It would, of course, not be proper for me to speculate about when it will be signed, but the important point is that the text must be completely ready for it to be signed," he stated. "And after that, of course, then we move to the ratification and implementation stage but it's a good time for the relationship, the trade relationship in particular, and the extraordinary work done by the Commerce Ministry team and all of my colleagues here in the High Commission is a reason why we're in a great position to look at the future of the India-UK relationship," he added. After nearly three years of negotiations, the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) announced on May 6. Doraiswami's remark came ahead of PM Modi's 2-day visit to the UK on July 23 at the invitation of his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer. During the visit, he will also call on King Charles III. The visit provides both leaders with the opportunity to review the entire scope of the bilateral relationship and discuss ways to further strengthen it. They will also discuss issues of regional and global relevance. The India-UK partnership was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, and since then has seen regular high-level political exchanges, and both sides remain committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who briefed the media on PM Modi's visit to the UK and Maldives earlier in the day in New Delhi, said the sectors of business, technology, research, education, innovation, and the knowledge economy have emerged as key pillars of India-UK bilateral cooperation. Misri further stated that "legal scrubbing" was left for the agreement to go through, and final details on the matter will be announced at an "appropriate time". (ANI) Rescue teams retrieved the bodies of five tourists who were swept away by flash floods triggered by a cloudburst at Babusar Top in Gilgit-Baltistan, ARY News reported on Tuesday. The floods, caused by torrential rains in Chilas, swept away more than 15 tourist vehicles, according to ARY News. While five bodies have been recovered and four people rescued so far, the search operation for the remaining missing tourists is still underway. Spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan government, Faizullah Faraq, confirmed that efforts to locate those missing continue. He noted that rescue activities were hampered due to nightfall, ARY News reported. Authorities and local residents have jointly rescued over 200 stranded tourists. Residents of Thak Babusar have provided shelter to more than 100 individuals in their homes, ARY News stated. Additionally, all hotels and guesthouses in the city have been made available free of charge to tourists as part of the emergency response. In the Diamer region, about 20 locations on the Babusar Road and Silk Route have been rendered impassable due to flood damage. Authorities reported that approximately eight kilometres of road infrastructure has been severely affected. To support affected communities, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has begun distributing ration packs and tents in the impacted areas. Cloudbursts, flooding, and landslides in the Diamer district have also blocked several sections of the Karakoram Highway. On the directive of the Chairman of the National Highway Authority (NHA), teams have been deployed to restore damaged routes, ARY News reported. Meanwhile, in another rain-related tragedy, at least four children lost their lives on Monday as flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains wreaked havoc in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Swat district, ARY News reported. Torrential rains led to landslides and powerful flood currents across various areas of the district, resulting in the deaths of four children and leaving one child missing, according to ARY News. Rescue efforts are currently underway to locate the missing child. In the remote Shanko area of Madyan, a landslide struck a house, killing three children and injuring their mother. ARY News reported that in the Sodher area of Malam Jabba, two children were swept away by flash floods. One of them, a 7-year-old boy, was confirmed dead, while the other remains missing. Rainfall continues intermittently in the upper regions, prompting residents of low-lying areas along the Swat River to begin evacuating due to rising water levels, ARY News stated. Local residents criticised the authorities, claiming that no prior flood warning or alert had been issued by the administration, ARY News added. (ANI) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed hope that US President Donald Trump's "reasonable" position on the Ukrainian conflict will influence the European Union's stance on the matter, RT reported on Tuesday. During a press conference in Moscow after holding talks with Mozambique's Foreign Minister Maria Manuela Lucas, Lavrov stressed the need for constructive engagement from the EU. "I really hope that the reasonable approach that the Trump administration showed in this situation after it replaced the Biden administration, which spoke in unison with the unhinged Europeans, that this reasonable approach, which includes a willingness to dialogue and a willingness to listen and hear, will not go unnoticed by the Europeans, despite all the current discussions about the need to arm the Kiev regime again and again and again at the expense of... European taxpayers," Lavrov stated, according to RT. While Trump had pledged to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he admitted last month that resolving the war was "more difficult than people would have any idea." So far, direct talks between Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Washington, have not produced tangible outcomes and have primarily focused on humanitarian matters such as prisoner exchanges and recovery of soldiers' remains, RT noted. Trump has held multiple conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent months. According to RT, Trump recently criticized Putin for resisting a settlement and warned of sanctions against Russia and its trade allies if the conflict is not resolved by autumn. In response, the Kremlin conveyed a measured stance toward the US president's remarks and reiterated its commitment to continuing talks with Washington. RT quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as saying the US should instead focus on influencing Ukraine. "It appears that the Ukrainian side takes all statements of support as signals to continue war, not as signals for peace," Peskov said, according to RT. (ANI) Speaker of the House Mike Johnson alleged that the Epstein files were altered by the Department of Justice under the Biden administration. The Louisiana Rep. made the stunning claims while speaking to reporters on Wednesday. Mike Johnson says the Epstein files could have been doctored by the Biden DOJ. He's guilty AF. This is pure cover up. pic.twitter.com/dTRFMJ9mOw Ron Smith (@Ronxyz00) July 23, 2025 "Quickly weigh in on Epstein. Many are hoping to see more of those files released, there could be future court proceedings, is there any reason that you have to believe that any documents were tampered with by so called deep state operatives?" a Newsmax journalist asked Johnson. "Look, it hasn't been my area that I've worked on unfortunately. I wish I knew more about it. It's been in the Department of Justice. One of our concerns is, of course, that it was held in the hands of the DoJ leaders under the last administration, the Biden-Harris administration, and we all know how crooked and corrupt so many of those officials were, how they engaged in lawfare against President Trump," Johnson began. "He has a concern, and I do as well, that things could have been doctored in those records. So that's part of the concern. But I'm for full transparency. We all are. Maximum transparency. The President is as well. There's no daylight between him and the Republicans in Congress. We'll continue to advocate for that, to let the people see the records and draw whatever conclusions they will," he added. On the same day, Johnson accused the leadership of the Democratic Party of orchestrating a coverup of Biden's health decline, criticizing the same individuals that were advocating for the release of files pertaining to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. "We will not be lectured on transparency by the same party that orchestrated one of the most shameless, dangerous political cover-ups in the history of the United States and that was President Biden's obvious mental decline," Johnson told reporters. "House Republicans stand for maximum transparency and truth. We always have, and we always will," he added. Originally published on Latin Times The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization has warned of "dire" and "disastrous" conditions facing Afghan journalists in Iran and Pakistan, Khaama Press reported. Many fled due to threats and censorship under Taliban rule, but now face risks including "arbitrary arrest, forced deportation, and denial of basic services", according to Khaama Press. This marks a harsh turn in their plight. In Pakistan, suspended visa renewals have left many journalists in legal limbo, exposing them to "police detention and deportation", while in Iran they report similar difficulties such as lack of access to essential services, Khaama Press said. Underscoring the severity, the organization appealed to global institutions, urging the "United Nations, the European Union, Reporters Without Borders, and Western governments to accelerate asylum processes and offer immediate support," Khaama Press reported. With broader crackdowns on Afghan refugees underway in both countries, these journalists also face worsening economic conditions and lack of protection. The organization warned that global "silence ... would only worsen the humanitarian crisis," risking their lives, freedoms, and the broader principle of press freedom. Amid these growing threats, the United Nations has raised serious concerns over a new media directive issued by the Taliban, warning that the policy will intensify fear and self-censorship among Afghan journalists. In a statement issued on Thursday, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) stated that the move will tighten control over press freedom and formalise previous restrictive actions, as reported by Khaama Press. The directive mandates that all political programs and participants must receive prior approval from the Taliban's Ministry of Information and Culture before broadcast. According to Khaama Press, the four-page document titled "Policy for Holding Political Programs (Roundtables) in Afghanistan" requires media outlets to submit content to the ministry ahead of time and mandates ID cards for all program participants. UNAMA stated that the new rules "increase fear and self-censorship among Afghanistan media outlets" and warned that the directive "further erodes press freedom in the country," Khaama Press reported. The organisation said the policy institutionalises restrictions that have escalated since the Taliban took power in August 2021. According to Khaama Press, the Taliban's media policy emphasises that political content must align with the "Islamic Emirate's policies." It warns that criticism of the Taliban or deviation from "national unity and values" could lead to harsh penalties, including suspension of media licenses. Additionally, the ministry has ordered that media criticism of Taliban officials must be done "in a respectful manner" and remain within the bounds of Islamic law. Analysts have described these instructions as a veiled threat to independent journalism, according to Khaama Press. Since returning to power, the Taliban have imposed sweeping restrictions on free expression, targeting dissent and applying pressure on the press. The latest directive expands editorial control and places Afghan media directly under Taliban scrutiny, Khaama Press highlighted. These developments coincide with Afghanistan's steep fall in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). As per Khaama Press, the country now ranks 175th out of 180 nations, scoring just 17.88 points--a significant drop compared to prior years. International human rights organisations and press freedom watchdogs have urged the Taliban to reverse these repressive measures. Without immediate reform, Khaama Press noted, Afghanistan risks becoming one of the most hostile countries in the world for independent journalism and freedom of expression. (ANI) Former US President Barack Obama has denied allegations by the Trump administration that he manipulated intelligence related to Russian interference in the 2016 election, calling the claims "bizarre" and "a weak attempt at distraction," The Hill reported. "These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction," Patrick Rodenbush, a spokesperson for Obama, said in a statement sent to NewsNation, The Hill's sister company. "Nothing in the document issued last week undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election but did not successfully manipulate any votes. These findings were affirmed in a 2020 report by the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee, led by then-Chairman Marco Rubio," he added, according to The Hill. The Hill reported that Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard issued a report last Friday detailing the alleged election fraud, stating that officials involved were engaged in a "treasonous conspiracy." Gabbard also stated that her office was turning over evidence to the Justice Department for possible criminal referrals, with the support of President Donald Trump. "He's guilty, it's not a question," Trump told reporters referring to Obama. "This was treason, this was every word you can think of," The Hill quoted him as saying. Trump also claimed that several former top officials, including then-Vice President Joe Biden, former FBI director James Comey, former DNI director James Clapper and former CIA director John Brennan, could face criminal charges, The Hill reported. The allegations stem from a recent memo Trump issued in March, directing the declassification of all files related to "Crossfire Hurricane," the FBI's codename for the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The Hill further noted that Trump has consistently denied that Russia had any influence on his 2016 campaign victory over Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Meanwhile, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the Clinton campaign were fined by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) for failing to disclose spending on the investigation into Trump's alleged ties to Russia. According to a letter sent by the FEC, the DNC was fined $105,000 and the Clinton campaign was fined $8,000. The investigation was led by law firm Perkins Coie, which used research from Fusion GPS. The firm later hired retired British spy Christopher Steele to probe foreign involvement in the US election, The Hill reported. (ANI) The Ukrainian Parliament has voted to end the independence of the country's key anti-corruption agencies, triggering protests, criticism from Western officials, and warnings of a rollback in governance standards, RT reported. According to RT, the Verkhovna Rada passed legislation on Tuesday that places the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) under executive oversight. Lawmakers opposing the measure reportedly shouted "shame!" as the vote result was announced. Later that day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the bill into law. The move came just 24 hours after Ukraine's domestic security service raided the NABU headquarters and arrested two investigators, RT noted. The raids sparked concern from G7 ambassadors, who said they were "monitoring the situation." RT reported that anti-corruption activists have called the move an intentional effort to suppress independent probes. "This is about silencing NABU and SAPO as they close in on Zelensky's inner circle," the Anti-Corruption Action Center said. The legislation, introduced by lawmakers from Zelensky's ruling party, was initially meant to revise Ukraine's criminal code under martial law. However, last-minute amendments were added to strip NABU and SAPO of their autonomy, according to RT. MP Anastasia Radina criticised the bill, warning that it would "effectively dismantle" Ukraine's anti-corruption infrastructure, turning NABU and SAPO into "purely decorative institutions ... completely dependent on the will of the prosecutor-general," RT reported. The NABU and SAPO were established in 2015 under Western guidance to promote prosecutorial independence, a key requirement for Ukraine's EU accession talks and access to international loans. The NABU had received substantial support in terms of equipment and training from the US, UK, and EU, RT noted. European Commissioner Marta Kos condemned the legislation, calling the "dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABU's independence a serious step back." She added that "the rule of law remains central to Ukraine's EU bid." European Commission spokesman Guillaume Mercier said the agencies were "crucial" for fighting corruption and maintaining public trust. He further stated that Ukraine's EU accession would require "strong institutional resilience," and reminded that "EU aid remains tied to reforms," according to RT. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko dismissed the international backlash, saying corruption concerns were "overemphasised," and indicated that Kyiv would continue to seek additional support from the IMF. (ANI) Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has strongly criticised the UN for what he described as hypocrisy toward Israel, saying Hamas is responsible for the ongoing crisis in Gaza, The Jerusalem Post reported. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Danon said, "Hamas causes the crisis, and we get the blame." He added, "We're not ignoring the suffering in Gaza -- but the blame lies with Hamas, not Israel." According to The Jerusalem Post, Danon said international pressure on Israel in recent weeks stems less from genuine humanitarian concern and more from "a calculated propaganda campaign orchestrated by Hamas and its allies." He stated, "People see the images, they hear the outcry -- but they don't check the facts. That's why we're fighting not only on the battlefield, but in the arena of perception." Danon firmly rejected the claim that Gaza is currently facing famine, citing international benchmarks. "Look at the quantities of food entering through Kerem Shalom, through humanitarian convoys, through aid centers -- there is a constant flow of food," he said, according to The Jerusalem Post. "But Hamas hijacks aid, disrupts distribution, and prevents civilians from accessing relief -- and then blames Israel." He further added that the deeper issue lies in Hamas's absence from international diplomacy. "They're not in the Security Council, not at the General Assembly. We are. So all the pressure goes to us -- even though we're not the problem, we're the target," The Jerusalem Post quoted him as saying. When asked about UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's recent criticism of Israel's handling of humanitarian access, Danon said, "It's hypocrisy. From day one, the UN tried to undermine the Israeli National Relief Fund that was set up to provide direct aid to Gaza. They don't want Israel to succeed -- they want control. Even if that means fewer Palestinians get fed," The Jerusalem Post reported. Danon also criticised the UN Security Council for failing to demand the release of hostages held by Hamas. "How can they have the audacity to talk about a ceasefire without demanding the release of those held in Hamas's terror tunnels?" he said. "How can you claim to stand for international law while ignoring the hostages as they languish in conditions that defy human comprehension?" he added, referring to a statement by released hostage Eli Sharabi to the council, in which Sharabi asked, "Where was the UN during my 491 days in captivity?" Describing the UN's silence as a "moral collapse of the highest order," Danon also criticised the Red Cross, saying, "For 530 days, the Red Cross has continued to act according to Hamas's playbook," The Jerusalem Post reported. Addressing the topic of renewed IDF military operations in Gaza, Danon stated, "There is one absolute certainty in this situation: the war will not end until the hostages are freed." He added, "This war does not end with hostages left underground." "The choice is simple," he concluded. "If you want a ceasefire, then pressure Hamas to release the hostages immediately." (ANI) The Trump administration has reached an agreement with the United Arab Emirates to halt the deportation of Afghan allies who worked alongside U.S. forces, ensuring they can remain in the UAE while their U.S. visa applications are processed, Khaama Press reported. According to Khaama Press, visa processing has now officially begun in the UAE for Afghan interpreters and soldiers, marking a significant step toward securing their safe relocation to the United States. The agreement follows reports that the UAE was preparing to forcibly return some Afghans to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, triggering international concern. The decision was made in coordination with senior U.S. officials, including the Vice President, the Secretary of State, and the White House Chief of Staff, Khaama Press stated. Emirati authorities were also involved in finalizing the deal. A senior White House official told Khaama Press that President Donald Trump has "ordered a full effort to begin the safe and permanent resettlement of these Afghan allies." The U.S. State Department is now actively reviewing individual visa cases. The development has renewed hope for thousands of vulnerable Afghans who supported American military and diplomatic efforts over the past two decades. Many of them have faced prolonged delays and uncertainty regarding safe passage, Khaama Press reported. The agreement is seen as a meaningful step toward honoring the United States' commitments to its wartime allies and also helps ease recent diplomatic tensions caused by earlier deportation threats, according to Khaama Press. If fully implemented, Khaama Press noted that this agreement could become a model for how the U.S. responds to future crises involving allied personnel, offering a structured path to safe resettlement. But even as the U.S. begins processing visas for Afghan allies in the UAE, Khaama Press reported that a U.S. federal court has rejected a request to delay the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan nationals -- a move that now puts thousands at risk of deportation and the loss of work authorization. According to Khaama Press, U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang in Maryland ruled on July 10 that Afghan TPS holders will not be allowed to retain their legal status while a broader legal challenge proceeds in court. As a result, the protections currently extended to thousands of Afghans in the U.S. will end on July 14, 2025. "This ruling affects approximately 11,700 Afghan migrants who were granted TPS after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in 2021, rendering return to the country unsafe," Khaama Press reported. Immigrant rights organisations have contested the Biden administration's decision to end TPS for Afghan nationals, claiming it is "unfair and politically motivated," according to Khaama Press. Advocates argue the administration is disregarding the grave human rights concerns in Afghanistan, particularly the persecution of vulnerable communities. Human rights defenders have raised alarm over the ruling, warning that forced returns could have dangerous consequences. "Sending Afghans especially women and girls back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan is dangerous," one rights group noted. Human Rights Watch and the United Nations have both documented extreme gender-based repression under the Taliban regime. Khaama Press highlighted these reports, noting that the Taliban's treatment of women amounts to "gender apartheid." The situation remains volatile, with widespread restrictions on freedom, education, and employment for women. Legal experts and human rights activists are urging swift action from the U.S. government and Congress. They recommend passing legislative solutions such as the Afghan Adjustment Act or expanding humanitarian programs to safeguard Afghan TPS holders. Without intervention, thousands of Afghans could face forced deportation to a country where they may be subjected to violence, repression, and loss of basic rights, Khaama Press added. (ANI) India on Wednesday reaffirmed its commitment to international peace and security through multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes, while strongly condemning cross-border terrorism and calling out Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) High-Level Open Debate. Delivering India's statement on , Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, Permanent Representative to the UN, said, "As we complete 80 years of the United Nations, it is a useful moment to reflect on how far the spirit of multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes as enshrined in the UN Charter has been realized." Highlighting the transformation in the nature of global conflicts, Harish noted, "In the recent decades, the nature of conflicts has transformed, with a proliferation of non-state actors, often propped up as proxies by state actors; and cross-border funding, arms trafficking, training of terrorists, and spread of radical ideologies, facilitated by modern digital and communication technologies." On the need to ensure accountability for terrorism, the Ambassador referenced the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 innocent tourists. He said, "Consequent to the gruesome terrorist attack in Pahalgam... and based on the Council Statement of 25 April... India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), which was focused, measured, and non-escalatory in nature. On achieving its primary objectives, a cessation of military activities was directly concluded at the request of Pakistan." He stressed that "national ownership and consent of parties are central to any efforts to achieve peaceful resolution of conflicts," adding, "There should also be a serious cost to states who violate the spirit of good neighbourliness and international relations by fomenting cross-border terrorism." Addressing recent remarks by Pakistan's representative, Harish said, "The Indian Sub Continent offers a stark contrast in terms of progress, prosperity and development models. On the one hand, there is India which is a mature democracy, a surging economy and a pluralistic and inclusive society. At the other extreme is Pakistan, steeped in fanaticism and terrorism, and a serial borrower from the IMF." He added, "It ill behoves a member of the Council to offer homilies while indulging in practices that are unacceptable to the international community." The Ambassador also emphasized India's role as the largest cumulative contributor to UN Peacekeeping forces and a pioneer in promoting women in peacekeeping. "We are at a time, where there are growing doubts about the multilateral system, especially the United Nations," he said, stressing the urgent need to address "serious question marks over the representativeness of the UN Security Council." Harish reaffirmed, "India remains committed to working towards international peace and security through multilateralism and peaceful settlement of disputes." (ANI) India and Japan continued to deepen their partnership on maritime connectivity and regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region during a seminar titled "IPOI: India-Japan Partnership in Maritime Connectivity" held at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo on Tuesday (local time). Ambassador of India to Japan, Sibi George, delivered the inaugural remarks at the event, which featured special addresses by Japan's former Defence Minister and MP H.E. Mr. Minoru Kihara, India's Secretary (East) H.E. Mr. P. Kumaran, and H.E. Mr. Shingo Miyamoto, Director General at Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The discussions focused on strengthening India-Japan cooperation on maritime linkages across the Indo-Pacific region. The Indian Embassy later shared highlights of the event in a post on social media platform X, "Glimpses of a seminar on "IPOI: India-Japan Partnership in Maritime Connectivity" held at the Embassy. Ambassador @AmbSibiGeorge delivered the inaugural remarks at the event, which also featured special remarks by H.E. Mr. Minoru Kihara, Hon'ble MP & former Defence Minister, H.E. Mr. P. Kumaran, Secretary (East), and H.E. Mr. Shingo Miyamoto, DG, MOFA. Discussions focused on deepening India-Japan cooperation in enhancing maritime connectivity in Indo-Pacific." https://x.com/IndianEmbTokyo/status/1947647621805576605 On the sidelines of the seminar, Ambassador Sibi George held talks with top Japanese lawmakers. He met H.E. Yasutoshi Nishimura, Member of the House of Representatives, and discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. https://x.com/IndianEmbTokyo/status/1947620624681103720 He also received H.E. Minoru Kihara, former Defence Minister of Japan and current MP, for a similar discussion on bilateral cooperation. https://x.com/IndianEmbTokyo/status/1947828380667416935 Last month, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, met Terada Yoshimichi, Japan's Vice Minister for International Affairs (MLITT), in Oslo. The meeting aimed to expand maritime ties between the two countries, including Japanese investment in Indian shipyards, cooperation in port digitisation, green initiatives, R&D, seafarer employment, and upskilling. The two sides also discussed Japan's possible collaboration in developing the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep Islands into smart, sustainable, and disaster-resilient islands. Sonowal said Japan's expertise in this area could help in deploying renewable energy, smart mobility, and digital infrastructure. In April 2025, following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express condolences. Prior to the call, both PM Ishiba and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya had issued public messages of sympathy. The India-Japan partnership has seen regular high-level interactions. In October 2024, PM Modi met with Prime Minister Ishiba in Vientiane, Laos, during the ASEAN summit. Both leaders discussed enhanced cooperation in infrastructure, connectivity, defence, and other key areas. India and Japan continue to maintain strategic engagement through structured dialogues. The 17th Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue was held in New Delhi in August 2024, along with the 3rd round of the 2+2 Ministerial Meeting on the same day, reflecting the countries' commitment to regional peace, maritime security, and shared prosperity. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UK, scheduled from July 23-24, aims to strengthen bilateral ties between India and the UK. The highlight of PM Modi's visit will be the signing of the India-UK FTA, which has been under negotiation for three years. This agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90% of British products. The FTA is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, from the current $60 billion mark. It will also make it easier for British firms to export products like whisky and cars to India. According to the MEA, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance. Over the years, the India-UK historical ties, have transformed into a robust, multi-faceted, mutually beneficial relationship. The relationship has been elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. New Delhi and London have seen sustained and frequent high level political engagements. Prime Minister Modi has met UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer twice over the past one year. They met on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Brazil in November 2024, and again during G7 Summit in June 2025. Both also had multiple telephonic conversations over the period. A significant marker of the strength of ties is the five Ministerial level Institutional Mechanisms in strategic, economy & finance, trade, energy, science and technology, between the two countries. Other recently held dialogues include Foreign Office Consultation, Defence Consultation Group, 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue.On the economic front, bilateral trade has crossed record USD 55 billion in 2024, registering an increase of about 10 per cent over that of 2023. The conclusion of India-UK FTA announced on May 6, 2025 by both Prime Ministers, has been a major milestone in bilateral ties. The two countries have seen sustained and high-level cooperation across several fronts. PM Modi will hold wide-ranging talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, covering trade, defense, climate, innovation, and education. He will also meet King Charles III. India and the UK will discuss strengthening their defense and security ties, including regular military exchanges and collaboration on critical technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. PM Modi is likely to raise the issue of Khalistani extremists in the UK, who have been a concern for India. The UK government has assured India that it will take necessary actions to address this issue. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the issue of Khalistani extremists and related groups is a matter of concern for India, and it has been brought to the attention of partners in the United Kingdom. Discussions have also taken place between India and the UK regarding the extradition of fugitives to India, Misri said. Foreign Secretary Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. We will continue to do so. This is a matter of concern not only to us but should be a matter of concern to our partners as well because this impacts social cohesion and social order in these other countries as well." Answering a media query on the issue of fugitives in the UK, Misri said that there is a legal process to such requests regarding fugitives related to Indian law and India is working "very closely" with the UK on this issue. "There have been a few questions fugitives related to Indian law and Indian justice, in the UK. These have been a matter of discussion between both sides and we have continued to make the case for these fugitives to be rendered to India. There is a legal process that such requests , issues go through in the other country, and we continue to follow very closely with our partners in the UK on these matters." The two countries will also review progress in areas like climate action, healthcare, education, and people-to-people connections. With an Indian diaspora that forms about 2.7 per cent of the total population of UK, it acts as the living bridge which forms a key pillar of growth and development of India -UK relations through their valuable contribution to the British society and economy as well as promoting bilateral cultural and economic cooperation and bonds of friendship between peoples of our two countries. After the UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25-26. PM Modi will be the guest of honor at the Maldives' 60th Independence Day celebrations. He will hold talks with President Mohamed Muizzu to strengthen bilateral ties and review progress on the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. The visit aims to reset and enhance India-Maldives relations, which had been strained in the recent past. (ANI) Tibetan leader Sikyong Penpa Tsering recently met with around 60 Tibetan students from abroad in Dharamshala, emphasising the importance of understanding their history and cultural identity. He encouraged the youth to study Tibetan history and politics to effectively advocate for the Tibetan cause globally, stating that "hope is what we ultimately yearn for," as reported by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on July 21, 2025. Sikyong stressed that knowing their history is crucial for defending their identity and struggle in order to effectively advocate for the Tibetan cause on the global stage. He urged students to support the Central Tibetan Administration's Middle Way Approach, a peaceful resolution to the Sino-Tibetan conflict. "Understanding our history is essential for defending our identity and struggle," he commented, as cited in the CTA report. Sikyong called on Tibetan youth to actively participate in solidarity initiatives and advocacy efforts in their host countries. Sikyong emphasised the importance of youth involvement in preserving Tibetan heritage and advancing the freedom movement. He credited the 14th Dalai Lama's tireless advocacy for the continued international recognition of the Tibetan issue. "It is due to His Holiness's relentless advocacy that the Tibetan cause continues to receive global support. Now, it is our responsibility, especially for those of us in exile, to continue this advocacy in our respective host countries," he remarked. He encouraged students to deepen their understanding of complex dynamics at play in global geopolitics and their implications for the Tibetan cause. Among the students present were two distinct groups: one consisting of participants from Europe and the United States currently taking part in a month-long Cultural Immersion Summer Course at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, and another group from Belgium's Tibetan Language and Culture School, who are on a three-week educational tour of Dharamshala. (ANI) Washington [USA], July 23 (ANI/WAM): The United States announced on Tuesday that it is working to finalise the establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor into the Gaza Strip, which has received initial approval from the relevant parties. In this context, the US Department of State confirmed that Special Envoy to the Middle East Steven Witkoff will travel to the Middle East to hold talks aimed at completing the arrangements for the corridor. Speaking to reporters, Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said, "Witkoff will head to the region with great hope that we can put forward a new ceasefire and a humanitarian corridor for aid entry," noting that the corridor "has, in fact, received agreement from both parties." (ANI/WAM) New York, US (PANA) - Protecting underwater ecosystems from the growing interest in rare mineral mining, framing deep-sea laws and building a biobank are among landmark achievements of the UNs International Seabed Authority (ISA), which is marking its 30th anniversary at its Kingston, Jamaica, headquarters Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for the United Kingdom on the first leg of his two-nation visit, which will also take him to the Maldives later this week. The visit to the UK from July 23-24 is aimed at boosting bilateral ties, with the signing of the much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a key highlight. The India-UK FTA, has been under negotiation for three years. This agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90% of British products. The FTA is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, from the current USD 60 billion mark. It will also make it easier for British firms to export products like whisky and cars to India. According to the MEA, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance.Over the years, the India-UK historical ties, have transformed into a robust, multi-faceted, mutually beneficial relationship. The relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. New Delhi and London have seen sustained and frequent high-level political engagements. Prime Minister Modi has met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer twice over the past year. They met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil in November 2024 and again during the G7 Summit in June 2025. Both leaders also had multiple telephonic conversations over the period. A significant marker of the strength of ties is the five Ministerial level Institutional Mechanisms in strategic, economy & finance, trade, energy, science and technology, between the two countries. Other recently held dialogues include Foreign Office Consultation, Defence Consultation Group, 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue.On the economic front, bilateral trade has surpassed a record USD 55 billion in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 10 per cent over 2023. The conclusion of India-UK FTA announced on May 6, 2025 by both Prime Ministers, has been a major milestone in bilateral ties.The two countries have seen sustained and high-level cooperation across several fronts. PM Modi will hold wide-ranging talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, covering trade, defense, climate, innovation, and education. He will also meet King Charles III.India and the UK will discuss strengthening their defense and security ties, including regular military exchanges and collaboration on critical technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. PM Modi is likely to raise the issue of Khalistani extremists in the UK, who have been a concern for India. The UK government has assured India that it will take necessary actions to address this issue. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the issue of Khalistani extremists and related groups is a matter of concern for India, and it has been brought to the attention of partners in the United Kingdom. Discussions have also taken place between India and the UK regarding the extradition of fugitives to India, Misri said.Foreign Secretary Misri said, "The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists, bodies close to these people, is something that we have brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. We will continue to do so. This is a matter of concern not only to us but should be a matter of concern to our partners as well because this impacts social cohesion and social order in these other countries as well." Answering a media query on the issue of fugitives in the UK, Misri said that there is a legal process to such requests regarding fugitives related to Indian law and India is working "very closely" with the UK on this issue. "There have been a few questions fugitives related to Indian law and Indian justice, in the UK. These have been a matter of discussion between both sides and we have continued to make the case for these fugitives to be rendered to India. There is a legal process that such requests , issues go through in the other country, and we continue to follow very closely with our partners in the UK on these matters," he said. The two countries will also review progress in areas like climate action, healthcare, education, and people-to-people connections.With an Indian diaspora that forms about 2.7 per cent of the total population of UK, it acts as the living bridge which forms a key pillar of growth and development of India -UK relations through their valuable contribution to the British society and economy as well as promoting bilateral cultural and economic cooperation and bonds of friendship between peoples of our two countries.After the UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25-26. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday embarked on a visit to the United Kingdom, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations. He said that India's ties with the UK have gained "significant momentum" in recent years under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," Modi said in a post on X after his departure. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1947925379194204580 The visit to the UK from July 23-24 is aimed at boosting bilateral ties, with the signing of the much-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a key highlight. India and UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties. The two countries are expected to sign a free trade agreement, potentially doubling bilateral trade by 2030 from the current $60 billion. "During my meeting with Prime Minister Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, we will have the opportunity to further enhance our economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and jobs creation in both countries. I also look forward to calling on His Majesty King Charles III during the visit," said PM Modi in his departure statement. The India-UK FTA, has been under negotiation for three years. This agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and reduce tariffs on 90% of British products.The FTA is projected to double bilateral trade by 2030, from the current USD 60 billion mark. It will also make it easier for British firms to export products like whisky and cars to India.According to the MEA, PM Modi will hold wide-ranging discussions with his UK counterpart, Keir Starmer, on the entire gamut of India-UK bilateral relations. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance.Over the years, the India-UK historical ties, have transformed into a robust, multi-faceted, mutually beneficial relationship. PM Modi is likely to raise the issue of Khalistani extremists in the UK, who have been a concern for India. The UK government has assured India that it will take necessary actions to address this issue. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that the issue of Khalistani extremists and related groups is a matter of concern for India, and it has been brought to the attention of partners in the United Kingdom. The two countries will also review progress in areas like climate action, healthcare, education, and people-to-people connections. With an Indian diaspora that forms about 2.7 per cent of the total population of UK, it acts as the living bridge which forms a key pillar of growth and development of India -UK relations through their valuable contribution to the British society and economy as well as promoting bilateral cultural and economic cooperation and bonds of friendship between peoples of our two countries. After the UK visit, PM Modi will travel to the Maldives from July 25-26. He will attend the 60th-anniversary celebrations of Maldives' independence and will meet with President Mohamed Muizzu to advance their joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. "I will thereafter travel to the Maldives at the invitation of the President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to join the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the Independence of Maldives. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. I look forward to my meetings with President Muizzu and other political leadership, to advance our joint vision of a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, and to strengthen our cooperation for peace, prosperity and stability in the Indian Ocean Region," Said PM Modi in his departure statement. The visit is expected to advance India's Neighbourhood First Policy, prioritizing cooperation with neighboring countries. "I am confident that the visit will yield tangible outcomes, benefiting our people and advancing our Neighbourhood First Policy," added PM Modi. (ANI) Japan has published its Defence of Japan 2025 white paper, which details escalating threats from a more united bloc of authoritarian countries, specifically China, Russia, and North Korea, as reported by the Eurasian Times. The report, sanctioned by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's cabinet, cautions about a swiftly deteriorating security landscape in the region caused by increasing military collaboration among these nations. It delivers a straightforward evaluation of China, labelling it as the "greatest strategic challenge" facing Japan. The document warns that China's expanding military presence, assertive maritime actions, and strengthening connections with other authoritarian governments could "seriously impact" Japan's national security. This white paper scrutinises CRINK, a loosely connected bloc that some observers refer to as the "Axis of Upheaval." Although not a formal alliance, the rising diplomatic, military, and economic collaboration among these four nations is perceived as a significant threat to the rules-based international order, according to the Eurasian Times. Japan's Defence Minister Gen Nakatani expressed strong concerns: "The current international order is being profoundly challenged, and Japan is in the most challenging and intricate security situation of the post-war period." Japan has delivered its most severe warning to date regarding China's growing military footprint, stating in the white paper that activities from Beijing now pose a "serious impact" on national security. The document points out the initial confirmed breach of airspace by a Chinese military aircraft, along with increasing maritime pressure in the waters surrounding Japan. It emphasises that China's military aspirations present an "unprecedented and greatest strategic challenge" to both Japan and the global community. It documents Beijing's escalated presence near Japan, including a Chinese military aircraft intruding into Japanese airspace in August 2024 and a carrier group navigating between two southern Japanese islands adjacent to Taiwan the following month, as reported by the Eurasian Times. The report also highlights worries about China's heightened military drills near Taiwan, characterising them as possible practice for unification operations, such as a potential invasion. Japan cautions that in a future crisis over Taiwan, the China Coast Guard may lead a blockade initiative, intensifying conflict while remaining beneath the threshold of a declared war. Japan's Defence of Japan 2025 white paper indicates that the deepening military relations between China and Russia pose a serious and evolving danger to regional stability. This growing partnership is viewed as a direct threat to Japan's security and the broader balance in the Indo-Pacific, according to the Eurasian Times. (ANI) Baloch families have entered the seventh day of a peaceful sit-in protest, demanding the release of Baloch Yakjehti Committee leaders and an end to enforced disappearances in Balochistan in Islamabad. "Today marks the seventh consecutive day of the Islamabad sit-in by Baloch families demanding the release of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders and an end to enforced disappearances in Balochistan," stated the post on X. "Despite yesterday's heavy rain, the families, many of whom are women, elderly, and children, are still not being allowed to set up a camp. The road to the Islamabad Press Club remains sealed, and now, additional roads around the protest site have been blocked by Pakistani authorities. Buses have been strategically placed to hide the families from public view, denying citizens of Islamabad to witness this peaceful struggle for justice. The state's response remains rooted in intimidation, erasure, and silencing," the post stated. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee urges all aware citizens, journalists, and advocates for human rights to unite with the families who have come from Balochistan to the capital in search of justice through nonviolent protest. In a prior announcement, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee affirmed that, despite the persistent rain and police barriers leading to the Islamabad Press Club, the families remain determined in their peaceful demonstration. They are calling for the release of BYC leaders and an end to the enforced disappearances happening in Balochistan, as reported by TBP. A large number of police officers have arrived at the protest site today. The BYC has asserted that the police and Islamabad authorities are intimidating demonstrators under the pretext of conducting identification checks, which the organisation strongly denounces. The BYC warned that any harm incurred by protesters will be entirely the responsibility of the Islamabad police and the Pakistani government. The demonstrators vow to persist in amplifying their voices despite the rain and harassment tactics. The families are making two primary demands: the withdrawal of false charges against BYC leaders and their release, as well as an end to enforced disappearances and the recovery of missing persons in Balochistan. (ANI) As TV BRICS highlighted, BRICS nations are investing heavily in advanced agricultural technologies such as precision farming, biotechnology, and data-driven tools. These developments are leading to more efficient use of resources like water, fertilisers, and pesticides while reducing environmental damage and agricultural waste. China, for example, is leveraging satellite technology and drone systems to monitor crops in real-time and fine-tune agricultural inputs, boosting productivity. Meanwhile, Brazil's success with genetically modified, pest-resistant soybean varieties has significantly increased crop yields. Such innovations are setting global standards for sustainable agriculture. Shirzad noted that BRICS countries are not only strengthening their domestic agricultural capabilities but are also reshaping international food trade. Brazil has emerged as a key exporter of soy and beef, powered by its biotech advancements, while China continues to expand its dominance in the grain and vegetable markets. These innovations are also spreading to other developing nations, fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer. The adoption of BRICS-driven agricultural technologies in various regions is helping build capacity and support food security on a broader scale. Shirzad emphasised that BRICS is gradually establishing itself as a global leader in agritech. As BRICS+ expands its cooperative framework among emerging economies, its influence in shaping future agricultural trends is expected to rise. Ultimately, BRICS' commitment to innovation is driving a shift toward a more sustainable, multipolar, and tech-powered global food system, placing these nations at the heart of the next agricultural revolution. The BRICS is a group formed by eleven countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. It serves as a political and diplomatic coordination forum for countries from the Global South and for coordination in the most diverse areas. The objectives of BRICS include strengthening economic, political, and social cooperation among its members, as well as increasing the influence of Global South countries in international governance. (ANI) The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed concern regarding political dysfunction and increasing injustices in Punjab. According to the report by Dawn, the HRCP conducted a press conference to bring attention to the human rights landscape in Punjab, as detailed in its newly released report, State of Human Rights in 2024. Although there was an increase in voter registration and the total number of votes cast during the 2024 general elections, voter turnout experienced a decline. The representation of women in the assemblies more than doubled; however, the Punjab Assembly continued to struggle with disruptions, a tendency to dismiss opposition input, and rushed legislation. The assembly sessions in 2024 were characterised by disorder. Women Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs) staged a walkout due to inappropriate behaviour in the House, and the designated seats for women and minorities were challenged legally, as reported by Dawn. The Punjab Defamation Act 2024, which was swiftly passed in June, faced severe criticism from human rights organisations for suppressing free speech. This law was later contested in the Lahore High Court on constitutional grounds. The Punjab authorities enforced road closures to impede PTI protests in Islamabad, violating the movement rights of both political activists and ordinary citizens. The ongoing persecution of religious minorities persisted, evidenced by the lynching of a Christian man in Sargodha by a violent mob following blasphemy allegations. The Ahmadiyya community completely withdrew from the electoral process, citing systemic discrimination and safety concerns. The report notes with deep concern that nine individuals from Punjab were killed on the Quetta-Taftan highway, along with seven Punjabi labourers who died in an alleged militant assault in Panjgur, Balochistan, as mentioned in the Dawn report. Punjab reported the highest incidence of child abuse cases in Pakistan. From January to June 2024, the province accounted for 78% of the 1,630 cases reported nationwide, in addition to 2,506 incidents of sexual abuse, 2,189 kidnappings, 457 cases of child trafficking, and 455 instances of physical abuse. Reports of sexual violence against women with mental disabilities, domestic violence resulting in fatalities, including among pregnant women and honor killings, remained prevalent throughout the year. The report also highlighted that workers' rights and environmental conditions were largely ignored. Sanitation workers continued to endure perilous working environments. Additionally, the provincial government failed to tackle dangerously high levels of smog, with Lahore and Multan experiencing record air pollution rates in November, as per the Dawn report. (ANI) India said on Wednesday that it is working with the UK authorities to address any concerns after a report that some bodies of Air India plane crash victims were "wrongly identified" and that the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements. Responding to media queries regarding a report in the Daily Mail on the Air India crash in Ahmedabad last month, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that all mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased. "We have seen the report and have been working closely with the UK side from the moment these concerns and issues were brought to our attention. In the wake of the tragic crash, the concerned authorities had carried out identification of victims as per established protocols and technical requirements. All mortal remains were handled with utmost professionalism and with due regard for the dignity of the deceased. We are continuing to work with the UK authorities on addressing any concerns related to this issue," Jaiswal said. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1947965097235874040 The Daily Mail had said two instances of mistaken identity had come to light, there are apprehensions that more such errors could have been made. The report said that in one case, relatives of one victim had to abandon funeral plans after being informed that their coffin contained the body of an unknown passenger rather than their family member. In another case, 'commingled' remnants of more than one person killed in the crash were mistakenly placed in the same casket, the report said. The London-bound Air India AI-171 flight, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, killing 260 people. The aircraft crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel complex in Ahmedabad's Meghani Nagar area. A week after the incident, the Ministry of Civil Aviation released new draft rules to tighten control over structures that pose a risk to aircraft safety. The draft, titled Aircraft (Demolition of Obstructions) Rules, 2025, was issued on June 18. The rules aim to give authorities the power to take prompt action against buildings and trees that exceed height limits in designated aerodrome zones. This is seen as a proactive step to prevent potential accidents caused by obstructions in flight paths. Ahmedabad Police and district health department authorities had last month confirmed the identification of most of the bodies through DNA sampling, and the bodies were handed over to the respective families. According to Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of the Civil Hospital, 254 victims were identified through DNA matching and six through facial recognition. "I can say that a total of 254 DNA matches were done, all identified and handed over. Six were identified through facial recognition, and they were also handed over. So, a total of 260 bodies were identified and handed over to their family members," Rakesh Joshi said, adding that 241 of the deceased were passengers and 19 were non-passengers. (ANI) The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the move will facilitate cross-border travel, which is highly beneficial. In a post on X, the Chinese MFA said, "We take note of India's resumption of tourist visas for Chinese citizens. This is a positive move. Easing cross-border travel is widely beneficial. China will maintain communication and consultation with India to further facilitate travel between the two countries." https://x.com/MFA_China/status/1947961663690592692 India will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese citizens from July 24 this year, Reuters reported. Tensions between the two countries escalated following a 2020 military clash along their disputed Himalayan border. In response, India imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, banned hundreds of popular Chinese apps and cut passenger routes. China suspended visas to Indian citizens and other foreigners around the same time due to the COVID-19 pandemic but lifted those restrictions in 2022, when it resumed issuing visas for students and business travellers, as per Reuters. Tourist visas for Indian nationals remained restricted until March this year, when both countries agreed to resume direct air service. Relations have gradually improved, with several high-level meetings taking place last year, including talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Russia, Reuters reported. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that Beijing had noted the positive move. "China is ready to maintain communication and consultation with India and constantly improve the level of personal exchanges between the two countries," he said. India and China share a 3,800 km (2,400-mile) border that has been disputed since the 1950s. The two countries fought a brief but brutal border war in 1962 and negotiations to settle the dispute have made slow progress. In July, India's foreign minister told his Chinese counterpart that both countries must resolve border friction, pull back troops and avoid "restrictive trade measures" to normalise their relationship, as per Reuters. (ANI) Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Wednesday reiterated that the People's Republic of China (PRC) has never exerted control over Taiwan, calling it an "historical fact that cannot be disputed." As reported by the Central News Agency (CNA), the MAC responded to a commentary in the People's Daily by Chinese scholar Wang Yingjin, who criticised President Lai Ching-te for asserting that the PRC has never ruled Taiwan for even a single day. In a speech on June 22, Lai referenced the 1951 San Francisco Peace Treaty, which stated that Japan renounced all claims to Taiwan and the Penghu Islands after World War II but did not designate a recipient, indicating that Taiwan was not transferred to the PRC. Wang, who leads the Cross-Strait Relations Research Center at Renmin University of China, argued that since 1949, the PRC has exercised sovereignty over Taiwan through political, military, and diplomatic means. He maintained that international organisations frequently consult Beijing regarding Taiwan's participation in global matters, which he interprets as evidence of the PRC's representative authority over the island, according to the CNA report. Wang also mentioned instances like China's implementation of anti-secession laws and patrols near Kinmen in 2024 as indications of legal or administrative control over Taiwan. Chen Shih-min, an associate professor at National Taiwan University, refuted Wang's assertions, labelling them as misleading and unconvincing, and pointed out that the global community does not widely recognise Taiwan as part of China. Chen referred to studies that show that out of 183 countries with diplomatic relations with China, around 66 per cent of joint communiques do not acknowledge or accept the notion that Taiwan is part of China, while only about 33 per cent explicitly recognise it. The MAC reaffirmed its position that the PRC has never ruled Taiwan and highlighted that this is a historical truth. Lai's statement from June 22, which is part of a recent initiative to address the challenges faced by Taiwan and outline governmental responses, has faced significant backlash from Beijing, which considers Taiwan to be a part of its territory, the CNA report indicated. (ANI) Former Foreign Minister of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid, while talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Maldives on July 25-26, expressed contentment at the thawing of frozen ties between the two nations. Shahid said that the strain was unfortunate and was due to the incorrect narrative of the current government. "I am delighted by the PM's visit. The PM's visit this time goes beyond symbolism because the PM is making a State Visit coinciding with the 60th anniversary of our independence. He will be the Guest of Honour here for the celebrations. This goes beyond symbolism because recently we have had very unfortunate diplomatic strain between Maldives and India because of the narrative that the current government used during the elections," he said. Shahid added that the PM's visit went beyond symbolism as it was taking place on the 60th anniversary of their independence. The visit also acknowledged that the narrative that the government was promoting was untrue. "The hate that was being mongered by the current government accusing our best friend India of such unnecessary things led to this diplomatic strain. It is so important that the PM be here with us as the Guest of Honour during our celebrations of our independence day which is the public recognition by the current administration that what they had been saying and what they had been promoting is not true. So, the Maldivian people are delighted and we are very much looking forward to welcome the PM," he said. Shahid noted that India has been a generous partner of the Maldives and it celebrates the diplomatic recognition and establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and India. "India has been a very generous development partner for many decades. This year, we are also celebrating the diplomatic recognition and establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and India which coincides with our independence anniversary. During these 60 years of our diplomatic relations, India has been a very generous development partner," he said. "The major projects that were begun during our 5 years in government are being completed, some of the projects are going to be inaugurated during PM's visit," he added. He further said that they hoped other greater connectivity projects get completed by next year. "This showcases the kind of development partnership between our two countries. The Greater Male connectivity project which is the largest infrastructure project that the country has ever seen is being completed. We are hoping that it will be completed sometime next year," he said. (ANI) Nouakchott, Mauritania (PANA) - The Governments of Mauritania and Chad on Tuesday signed funding agreements for the Regional Engagement for Learning and Collaboration in Education (RELANCE) Project, supported by the World Bank and the Federal Republic of Germany, for a total of $137 million The Indian Embassy in Ireland on Wednesday said that it was in touch with the Indian victim in Tallaght, adding that all assistance was being offered to him. The embassy said that it was in touch with all the relevant authorities in this regard. In a post on X, the Embassy said, "Regarding the recent incident of physical attack on an Indian national happened in Tallaght, Dublin, Embassy is in touch with the victim and his family. All the requisite assistances are being offered. Embassy is also in touch with the relevant Irish authorities in this regard." https://x.com/IndiainIreland/status/1947937360345260036 Akhilesh Mishra, Indian Ambassador to Ireland met the representatives of Indian community associations across Ireland and also voiced strong-worded condemnation against the attack. In a post on X, the Embassy said, "Ambassador H.E. Shri Akhilesh Mishra met the representatives of Indian community associations across Ireland, at the Embassy." https://x.com/IndiainIreland/status/1948008875614933093 In a post on X, Mishra said, "How can an "ALLEGED" assault cause such horrible injury & bleeding? Aghast at the insensitivity & obfuscation of Raidio Teilifis ireann, Ireland's National Public Service. Thank Hon Paul Murphy, Ireland's National Police and Security Service & Irish people for their sympathy, support to the innocent victim. Hope the perpetrators are brought to justice!" https://x.com/AkhileshIFS/status/1947289213445018007 Dublin South West Together, a local community, expressed solidarity with migrants to the region. In a post on Facebook, they announced a community stand out. "A vicious racist attack in Kilnamanagh which left an Indian man needing hospital treatment. The man was walking through Kilnamanagh when he was set upon by a gang of youths. The man was stabbed, beaten and stripped. False accusations about the man were later spread on social media in an attempt to justify the attack," it said. "Racists and Far Right groups have stoked the fire against immigrants for months and this has fuelled racism across Dublin city. Our local community will be taking a stand against this attack. The people being attacked are our neighbours, their children are the children of our neighbours. We must stand by them and not allow racists who inflict violence to gain any more. Who lives here belongs here! Let this be a turning point against racist attacks in our community, Tallaght! Join our community stand out on Friday at 6.30pm!" the post read. (ANI) Former Foreign Minister of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid, noted that India has always been the first responder to Maldives because Indians have a generous heart. Shahid, while talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Maldives on July 25-26, said that the rise in aid from India shows its maturity and generosity. "The relationship between Maldives and India has always demonstrated that India is the first responder. Whenever we dial the international line, India responds first. It is for many reasons. First and foremost, because Indian people have a big heart and they are always ready to assist Maldives in the neighbourhood, they are most generous," he said. He said that despite the tensions, India decided with maturity that no matter what, the relationship between the people of Maldives and India should not change. "Second, India is so close to Maldives geographically. Whenever anything of urgency and distressful happens in Maldives, India has never let us down...The increase in aid by the Indian government shows the generosity and maturity. Despite the diplomatic tension, India decided that the relationship is between people-to-people and governments change, political parties in power change but the relationship that exists between our two people is on solid foundation and has never changed," he said. Shahid said that it was important for Maldives to note that they must not use its neighbours for its own political gains. "It is important that we in Maldives recognise that true friendship requires Maldivian political parties and leadership not to use our neighbouring countries as a punching bag for political convenience. The ground reality hits us quickly, easily and that is what we are seeing," he said. He said that the countries should respect its friends. "So, it will be important for us to refrain from using our friends for political conveniences as a punching bags. We should respect and move forward with a true sense of friendship and cooperation," he said. He said that it was unfortunate that there was a dip in tourism due to diplomatic tensions, further hoping that PM's visit would make everything right. "There is a huge market just next door to us. It is only natural that we tap into the economic boom that is taking place in India. It was unfortunate that there was a dip in Indian tourism around arrivals in the Maldives because of the diplomatic tensions. But I think the PM's visit this time will put everything right," he said. Shahid further said that the current Maldives government will recognise that India is its genuine friend and both countries bear no ill-will towards each other. "The message that we are receiving shows that the current Maldivian government is ready to recognise the ground reality that India is a genuine friend and that India will always work to the greater good of its neighbours and there is no ill-will on the part of anyone. I am hopeful and I look forward to this visit by PM to be a new beginning, a way to further consolidate the relationship between our two countries," he said. He further said that it is important that Maldives recognises that the leadership must not use its friends for political gains and must move forward with respect. "It is important that we in Maldives recognise that true friendship requires Maldivian political parties and leadership not to use our neighbouring countries as a punching bag for political convenience. The ground reality hits us quickly, easily and that is what we are seeing. So, it will be important for us to refrain from using our friends for political conveniences as a punching bags. We should respect and move forward with a true sense of friendship and cooperation," he said. He expressed contentment at the thawing of frozen ties between the two nations. Shahid said that the strain was unfortunate, and was due to incorrect narrative of the current government. "I am delighted by the PM's visit. The PM's visit this time goes beyond symbolism because the PM is making a State Visit coinciding with the 60th anniversary of our independence. He is going to be the Guest of Honour here for the celebrations. This goes beyond symbolism because recently we have had very unfortunate diplomatic strain between Maldives and India because of the narrative that the current government used during the elections," he said. Shahid added that the PM's visit went beyond symbolism as it was taking place on the 60th anniversary of their independence. The visit also acknowledged that the narrative that the government was promoting was untrue. "The hate that was being mongered by the current government accusing our best friend India of such unnecessary things led to this diplomatic strain. It is so important that the PM be here with us as the Guest of Honour during our celebrations of our independence day which is the public recognition by the current administration that what they had been saying and what they had been promoting is not true. So, the Maldivian people are delighted and we are very much looking forward to welcome the PM," he said. (ANI) An emergency cabinet meeting held on Wednesday has declared Nepal's Madhesh province a disaster crisis zone as severe drought hit the nation's breadbasket. The unusual absence of rain in the southern plains of Nepal during the mid-monsoon has pushed the region into a state of crisis. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Wednesday informed the parliament that the cabinet had made a decision based on the situation in the southern plains. "A cabinet meeting today declared the Madhesh Province a disaster crisis zone. It means the budget which are required at the time of disaster can also be used urgently," Oli said. The decision was made based on a proposal by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The severe drought has affected all eight districts along the Terai belt of the Himalayan nation, which hosts the most fertile and arable landmass. "The groundwater level is receding, resulting in the hand-pumps and wells running dry. There is a scarcity of drinking water; there is no water for cleaning purposes as well. Concerned with the situation there, the government, after holding discussions at various levels, has deployed different teams to resolve the situation out there," Oli claimed. The government made the declaration under Section 32, Subsection 1, of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2017. The law allows the government to declare any area a disaster-threatening zone by publishing a notice in the Nepal Gazette, specifying its boundaries and the duration of The declaration, if deemed necessary and expedient due to the occurrence of a severe disaster. A prolonged dry spell during the peak monsoon season has brought much of Nepal's Tarai region to the brink of an agricultural crisis. Due to acute water shortages, farmers are unable to transplant paddy. The drought has left seedbeds dry, and paddy saplings are withering, sparking fears of an impending food shortage in Nepal's major rice-producing region. Also, the provincial government of Madhesh a few days ago declared the province a drought-hit zone. The provincial administration utilised fire trucks and tankers to distribute drinking water, but these efforts fell short of meeting the agricultural needs. The scarcity of water during mid-monsoon in the Tarai, Nepal's food basket, threatens not only farmers' livelihoods but also the national economy. Madhesh province, which is the breadbasket of the Himalayan Nation, still relies on rainwater for cultivation. Central bank- The Nepal Rastra Bank's 2024 report on 'Economic Status of Madhesh Province' had shown that an increase in the province's gross domestic product will be due to an increase in its agricultural production. NRB had projected Madhesh Province's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to stand at Nepali Rupees (NRs) 707 billion. Madhesh's GDP accounted for 13.13 per cent of the country's GDP, out of NRs 5.381 trillion. In Madhesh Province, farm products account for 35.2 per cent of the gross domestic product. Food crops, vegetables, fruits and spices are among the main products of this province. However, the dry and arid monsoon this year has increased worries for the farmers, who are now starting to worry about their coming days. Since the start of the monsoon this year, around two dozen people have already lost their lives to landslides and flooding. Several others have been injured and are missing in monsoon-related disasters. Properties and infrastructure worth billions of rupees have been either washed away by floods or buried in landslides. Locals in the mountainous region say that the weather has become so erratic that even light rainfall triggers floods. Scores of glacial and supraglacial lakes could burst at any time due to the melting of ice accelerated by global warming. At least eleven people were killed, and 17 others are still missing, in the Bhotekoshi flood triggered by a previously unnoticed supraglacial lake formed in Tibet above Rasuwagadhi. Nepal has been experiencing changes in temperature and precipitation at a rate faster than the global average, according to studies. Evidence indicates that the maximum temperature in Nepal is rising at a greater rate (0.05 degrees Celsius per year) than the minimum temperature (0.03 degrees Celsius per year). The prevailing situation in Madhesh Province comes amid the prediction by the Met's office of above-normal monsoon rainfall this year. Nepal, on an annual basis, faces disasters such as floods, landslides, and inundation, resulting in loss of life and property. A continuous downpour over three days last year resulted in widespread damage to properties, as well as the loss of approximately 200 lives due to the monsoon-induced disaster. As the Himalayan Nation is bracing for above-average rainfall this year, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has predicted that around two million (19,97,731) people from 4,57,145 households could be affected by monsoon-related disasters. According to the projection, the districts of Lumbini province will be affected the most in the monsoon--5,23,656 people from 1,19,830 households will be affected. This is followed by the Bagmati--3,27, 376 people from 74,914 households, Gandaki--2,87,107 people from 65,699 households, Koshi 2,75,867 people from 63,127 households, Madhesh--228,687 people from 52,331 households, Sudurpaschim--2,27,730 people from 52,112 households, and Karnali province--127,308 people from 29,132 households. (ANI) Members of the Indian diaspora in London expressed joy and admiration after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his ongoing visit to the United Kingdom, calling the moment surreal and emotionally overwhelming. Gehna Gautam, one of the diaspora members, shared her excitement after seeing the Prime Minister up close. "I just met the PM. He walked past us. It was a surreal moment. I got to shake my hand. He is so dynamic. It was an amazing experience. The enthusiasm and energy of the people around here is on another level." she said. Echoing similar sentiments, Sanjay said, "I am very happy to meet PM Modi. He has come here for a very important job. We wish him and Bharat good luck. He is doing a great job." Bhavya described her brief encounter with the Prime Minister as unforgettable. "The Prime Minister shook my hand and gave me 'Ashirwad'. It was the best feeling ever." he remarked. Shivani, another member of the diaspora, spoke about the emotional impact of the meeting. "We shook hands twice and he also blessed me on my head. It is my pleasure to meet him. We are very blessed to have him over here. We are really very happy today." Shreya Pareek, who had arrived specifically to meet PM Modi, expressed her appreciation for his leadership and recent initiatives. "I came here to meet PM Modi. I am glad that I got that opportunity. I want to congratulate him for Operation Sindoor and all the other things he is doing for India." The Prime Minister's visit has evoked strong emotions among the Indian community in the UK, with many calling it a moment of pride and a personal highlight in their lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Kingdom on Wednesday, marking the first leg of his two-nation visit. The two countries are poised to further strengthen bilateral ties by signing a Free Trade Agreement. PM Modi landed in London for a two-day visit to the United Kingdom. In his departure statement, PM Modi had said that India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. "Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties," he said. PM Modi will hold discussions with his UK counterpart Keir Starmer. The two leaders will have the opportunity to further enhance economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and jobs creation in both countries. PM Modi will also call on Charles III. This will be Prime Minister Modi's fourth visit to the United Kingdom since assuming office. He had previously visited in 2015 and 2018, and he was also present in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and more recently, just last month, in June, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The India-UK partnership was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021 and has since seen regular high-level political exchanges. Both sides remain committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels. The idea behind the trade deal is to eliminate or reduce tariffs on imports and exports between the two nations. This should make Indian products competitive in the UK and vice versa. Both nations desire to increase their trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. In the second leg of his visit, PM Modi will visit Maldives. (ANI) Members of the Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom, particularly from the Dawoodi Bohra community, extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his ongoing visit, expressing admiration for his longstanding ties with their community and his global leadership. "We're incredibly excited to welcome Prime Minister Modi. As Dawoodi Bohras, we are very proud of the relationship that the Prime Minister has with our community. He's been a friend of our community for many years. And as a proud Dawoodi Bohra and as a British citizen, we welcome him to the UK and look forward to meeting him," said a community member in London. Echoing the sentiment, another member of the Dawoodi Bohra community added, "I'm very excited. This is my first time personally meeting PM Modi. He's a great friend to the Dawoodi Bohra community. It will always be a pleasure to meet him. We welcome him and we hope that one day he will visit us at our mosque in the UK as well." The excitement surrounding the Prime Minister's visit extended beyond the Dawoodi Bohra community. Members of the wider Indian diaspora also expressed their admiration for Modi's leadership and global stature. Preena, a member of the Indian diaspora in London, said, "I am so excited to see PM Modi. My family and I are huge fans of PM Modi. He has done so much for India's progress. He made India a Vishwaguru. He made India very powerful on the world stage." The Prime Minister's visit is not only being welcomed with warmth by the Indian community but also holds diplomatic significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Kingdom on Wednesday in the first leg of his two-nation visit, with the two countries poised to further strengthen bilateral ties by signing a Free Trade Agreement. PM Modi landed in London for a two-day visit to the United Kingdom. In his departure statement, PM Modi had said that India and UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. "Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties," he said. PM Modi will hold discussions with his UK counterpart Keir Starmer. The two leaders will have the opportunity to further enhance economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and jobs creation in both countries. PM Modi will also call on Charles III. This will be Prime Minister's fourth visit to the United Kingdom since assuming office. He has visited previously in 2015 and 2018, and he was there in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and more recently, just last month, in June, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The India-UK partnership was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, and since then has seen regular high-level political exchanges, and both sides remain committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels. The idea behind the trade deal is to eliminate or reduce tariffs on imports and exports between the two nations. This should make Indian products competitive in the UK and vice versa. Both nations desire to increase their trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. In the second leg of his visit, PM Modi will visit Maldives. (ANI) According to the Henley Passport Index for 2025, Afghanistan was ranked 106th, at the bottom of the global list, making it the most restricted passport worldwide. The annual index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ranks passports according to the number of destinations their holders can enter without a visa. Khaama Press reported that Afghanistan's travel freedom continues to shrink. In 2024, the country ranked 104th. The two-rank drop in 2025 highlights a further erosion in the country's global mobility, leaving Afghan citizens increasingly cut off from the rest of the world. Meanwhile, Singapore topped the Henley Index in 2025, with its citizens enjoying visa-free access to 195 countries. Japan followed with access to 193 destinations. Finland, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, and Spain jointly secured third place, with visa-free access to 192 countries. By contrast, Afghan passport holders can travel without a visa to only 26 countries, including Sri Lanka, Somalia, Kenya, Cambodia, and Bangladesh, Khaama Press noted. The drastic gap underscores the limited options available to Afghan citizens for international movement. Despite the Taliban's control over the country, Afghan passports continue to be printed with the emblem of the former government, Khaama Press reported. The report also highlighted how this, combined with severe political instability and economic collapse, has worsened migration trends, even as acquiring a passport has become increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens. Khaama Press further stated that the consistent decline in the power of Afghanistan's passport mirrors the nation's worsening diplomatic and economic standing. The limited global access not only restricts individual movement but also reflects broader issues of international exclusion and lack of recognition. Experts note that unless Afghanistan addresses its core challenges, including governance issues, economic recovery, and efforts to gain international legitimacy, the passport is likely to remain at the bottom of global rankings for the foreseeable future. (ANI) Members of the Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom expressed pride and enthusiasm ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, calling him a visionary leader with both global and spiritual appeal. Many are hopeful that the visit will further strengthen India-UK relations, especially in trade and cultural exchange. Gayatri Lokhande, a diaspora member who arrived in London to meet PM Modi, said, "We are very excited to meet him. I met him in Odisha during a Pravasi Bharatiya event... This would be my second time. I have come here as the winner of the 'Bharat ko Janiye' quiz. We are looking forward to the trade agreement to be signed with PM Keir Starmer." For many, the connection to India remains strong across generations. Anagha, a young diaspora member born and brought up in the UK, shared her admiration for the Prime Minister and his impact on her family. "I have been born and brought up in the UK. My parents are from Maharashtra. I have been hearing all the positive words about PM Modi from my grandparents and my extended family, who live in villages and cities. I am very excited to see him. India is at the forefront globally. There is no better time than seeing PM Modi in person." Similar sentiments echoed as families gathered to welcome the Prime Minister. Ramchandra Shastri, attending with his family, praised PM Modi's global vision and cultural depth. "Today, we have come with our entire family, and PM Modi is a revolutionary person. He not only talks about the development of India, but about the entire world. He understands all the scriptures like Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads and talks about the welfare of all people. I am very happy to get an opportunity to meet him again." The Prime Minister's visit is not only being welcomed with warmth by the Indian community but also holds diplomatic significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Kingdom on Wednesday, marking the first leg of his two-nation visit. The two countries are poised to further strengthen bilateral ties by signing a Free Trade Agreement. PM Modi landed in London for two-day visit to the United Kingdom. In his departure statement, PM Modi had said that India and UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that has witnessed significant progress in recent years. "Our collaboration spans a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, technology, innovation, defence, education, research, sustainability, health and people-to-people ties," he said. PM Modi will hold discussions with his UK counterpart Keir Starmer. The two leaders will have the opportunity to further enhance economic partnership, aimed at fostering prosperity, growth and jobs creation in both countries. PM Modi will also call on Charles III. This will be Prime Minister's fourth visit to the United Kingdom since assuming office. He has visited previously in 2015 and 2018, and he was there in 2021 for the COP26 summit in Glasgow. Within the last year itself, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Starmer have met twice, first on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, and more recently, just last month, in June, in Kananaskis in Canada, on the sidelines of the G7 summit. The India-UK partnership was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021, and since then has seen regular high-level political exchanges, and both sides remain committed to taking this partnership to even higher levels. The idea behind the trade deal is to eliminate or reduce tariffs on imports and exports between the two nations. This should make Indian products competitive in the UK and vice versa. Both nations desire to increase their trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. In the second leg of his visit, PM Modi will visit Maldives. (ANI) Paris, France (PANA) - The United States announced on Tuesday that it will leave the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), which will take effect at the end of December 2026 We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings . Under the directive of Libyas Ministry of Interior in the Government of National Unity, a coordinated security operation was conducted in collaboration with INTERPOLs Counter-Terrorism Directorate and various Libyan security agencies. The operation involved comprehensive field inspections at key entry pointsincluding ports and airportswhere advanced technologies were employed to verify passports, vehicle registrations, and shipping documents, enhancing scrutiny of personal data. The Ministry reported that INTERPOLs Tripoli team commended the high level of coordination between security and customs officials in Misrata, which ensured a seamless execution of the operation. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Libyas border security infrastructure and combat transnational organised crime, reinforcing ongoing international cooperation between Libya and INTERPOL in addressing security threats. Blake Lively Subpoenas Her Online Critics -- Is It Fact-Finding or Intimidation? https://t.co/7xOBOPtoWL Variety (@Variety) July 22, 2025 Justin Baldonis insurance company does not want to pay his (and potentially Blake Livelys) legal fees: https://t.co/i8NiUG8JkJ pic.twitter.com/VerTFpCkNM (@LeaveHeardAlone) July 21, 2025 yeah this is still going onBlake Lively is subpoenaing a lot of people's social media accounts on various platforms to find proof of the smear campaign against herBigger accounts like Andy Signore, Perez Hilton and Candace Owens and pretty small onesThe terrible interview lady also got oneThe smaller accounts are pretty confused and don't have the money to get a lawyer to fight the subpoenasMcKenzie Folks, a stay-at-home mom:Lively wants: names, emails, IP addresses, physical addresses, bank accounts and credit card numbersA spokesperson for Lively:Gregory Doll, a Los Angeles attorney thinks Lively is doing too much:and:Beldoni has troubles with his insuranceThe movie's insurance doesn't think they have to pay anything bc Wayfarer Studios did not inform them about Lively's complains in a timely manner News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. Are Your Workers Hurting Because They Cant Find Fall Protection Data? Simply collecting safety data isnt enoughworkers must be able to easily find, understand, and act on it to stay safe. When it comes to protecting workers from safety hazards, producing the right health and safety data is only the first step. Just as importantbut often overlookedis making sure that workers can actually find and use the information they need to perform their jobs safely. Thats why an effective workplace safety management strategy hinges on data accessibility. Workers are safest when they know where to look for critical health and safety information, and when that information is accurate, clear, and easy to act on. This article explores why locating safety data can be surprisingly difficult and outlines practical steps businesses can take to ensure workers can quickly access the right information when it matters most. For Safety Data, Accessibility Is Everything Most businesses with employees working in potentially hazardous conditions are required by compliance mandates to collect data that supports worker safety. This includes developing ergonomic procedures to reduce material handling risks, and maintaining technical details like anchor ratings and dynamic loading requirements for fall protection systems. However, producing and storing safety dataeven in compliance with regulationsisnt enough to ensure worker protection. Too often, critical information never reaches the employees who need it, due to barriers such as the following: 1. Lack of awareness. In some cases, employees are simply unaware of relevant safety data, and as a result, they unintentionally make decisions without it. This issue is especially common when individuals who dont regularly engage with safety protocols, such as administrative or support staff, are involved in decisions that affect frontline workers. For instance, a procurement team might order a fall protection harness without understanding that harnesses vary by rating, design, and use case. If theyre unaware of compatibility requirements with existing lifeline systems, the wrong equipment could be purchased. Without clear communication and data sharing, particularly updated equipment specifications, teams may unknowingly put workers at risk, increasing the likelihood of a serious injury. 2. Scattered data. Health and safety data exists in many formats, and is often scattered across disconnected systems, making it difficult to access when it matters most. Safety inspections might be documented on paper forms and kept inside a filing cabinet, while procedures are saved on a shared drive and safety data sheets (SDS) live in binders in the Safety Managers office. Meanwhile, near-miss and injury records could be stored in an internal software system that frontline workers cant access. When critical safety data is stored in silos, workers are less equipped to perform their tasks safely and effectively. This article originally appeared in the June 2025 issue of Occupational Health & Safety. The world needs $18.2 trillion in new oil and gas investments in the period until 2050 in order to secure a sufficient supply. This is what OPEC warned in the 2025 edition of its World Oil Outlook. Yet the International Energy Agency continues to believe oil demand growth is going to peak before 2030, suggesting there is no such need for investments. Are both talking up their respective book? According to OPEC, global oil demand will reach 123 million barrels daily in 2050. That would be up from a projected 105 million barrels daily this year, per OPEC, or 104.4 million barrels daily per the International Energy Agency. According to the IEA, oil demand is already plateauing in certain parts of the world, most notably in China, which has been the biggest driver of demand growth for about three decades now. Yet, electric car penetration and alternatives to diesel trucks are sapping this demand growth, on course to bring peak oil demand to China. India has emerged as the next China in terms of oil demand growth. Yet India is still a much smaller oil consumer than China, and it is unclear whether it will ever catch up to China in terms of absolute numbers. For context, Chinas average daily consumption rate in 2023 was 16.4 million bpd, compared with 5.3 million bpd for India, per data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Related: U.S. Gasoline Prices Slide as Imports Surge and Summer Demand Sputters It is worth noting, too, that India is, like China, highly motivated to diversify away from oil because of its heavy reliance on imports and, consequently, international prices. That is why India has some of the most ambitious energy transition plans. Its about energy supply security as much as it is about emissions, if not more. The rate of global demand growth, then, remains rather uncertain, especially as Chinese EV makers take to international markets to sell their products at much lower prices than local manufacturers in, for example, Europe. Affordability is a big problem for most car buyers. Remove that problem, and EV penetration may well increase, affecting crude oil demand. So, its time to turn to natural gas, which is also a hydrocarbon, which was once called a bridge fuel to a net-zero economy and then promptly demonized as even dirtier than coal and bundled with oil and coal as inadmissible in a low-carbon system of human civilization. Global electricity demand is set for a prolonged surge amid a heating up race in the IT sector to out-develop everyone elses artificial intelligence programs. AI is all the rage, and it consumes massive amounts of electricity. Despite hopes and dreams of this electricity being supplied from wind and solar installations, Big Tech is hunting deals for long-term electricity supply from nuclear and gas-fired generators. It would be a safe bet to make that they would not refuse coal generation, either, if it comes to that. So, oil demand growth may be slowing on a global level but, first, it has yet to peak and it might take longer than the IEA believes, and second, even a peak would not mean a consequent sharp drop. As for natural gas demand, that is going to grow and grow quite stronglyunless Big Tech suddenly decides to drop its AI race ambitions. Even in the absence of such ambitions, the worlds electrification, per transition plans, would mean a steady increase in demand, especially for reliable, round-the-clock energy supply. As for OPEC and IEA, and talking up ones book, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently said the U.S. may pull out of the IEA due to its biased demand projections, which Wright called total nonsense. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com BP announced in February that it was doing a U-turn on plans to broaden its portfolio to include a range of renewable energy projects, and to instead focus on its primary oil and gas business. This was unexpected, as many oil majors have invested heavily in diversifying their energy mix in recent years, with rising pressure to decarbonise to support a global green transition. Five months on, BP has appointed a new chair to oversee the shift back to fossil fuels. BPs CEO, Murray Auchincloss, announced plans for a fundamental reset in February, which involved scrapping a target to increase renewable generation 20-fold by 2030, from 2019 levels, and instead redirecting the companys focus to fossil fuels. BP had around 8.2 GW of renewable generation capacity at this point. Auchincloss also announced plans to divest assets and cut other low-carbon investments to reduce debt and boost returns. This formed part of a strategy shift announced by the company due to investor concerns over earnings. BPs shares have long been underperforming, compared to those of several of its competitors, which led it to discard its target to reduce oil and gas output by the end of the decade. The rise in global oil and gas prices in the post-pandemic era boosted profits for several oil majors. Meanwhile, BP has lagged behind following its shift to focus on renewables. Shareholders put huge pressure on the companys former CEO, Bernard Looney, to make the business more profitable, until he was eventually replaced by Auchincloss in September 2023. In March, Auchincloss defended BPs shift back to fossil fuels, suggesting that the move was made largely to appease investors. From the many conversations I have been having, our new direction is resonating with shareholders Most of the questions to me are about how quickly we can deliver, Auchincloss wrote in an article in The Times. BP now intends to increase its oil and gas production to between 2.3 million and 2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2030, as well as increase spending by around 20 percent, to $10 billion a year. Previously, the British firm had planned to reduce output by around a quarter from 2019 levels, to 2 million bpd. Our optimism in 2020 for a fast energy transition was misplaced and we went too far, too fast in our plans, Auchincloss wrote. Just a few months after the announcement, in July, BP said it had appointed a new chair to oversee its transition back to fossil fuels. Albert Manifold, the former head of the building material company CRH, will replace Helge Lund as chair of the oil major in October. Lund had long supported BPs green transition and announced he would be stepping down in April. Amanda Blanc, the senior independent director at BP, said Manifold had transformed and refocused CRH into a global leader and commended his impressive track record of shareholder value creation. Meanwhile, Manifold said it was an honour to be appointed chair of one of the worlds great energy companies, and to have the opportunity to help the company reach its full potential. BP also hired Simon Henry, a former Shell executive, on its board, as well as oil and gas veteran Dave Hager, signalling a significant shake-up. In mid-July, BP agreed to sell its onshore wind business in the U.S. to the New York-based LS Power. This includes the sale of its share in 10 windfarms, which produce enough energy to power over 500,000 homes. The agreements terms were not disclosed, but the combined value of the windfarms, nine of which are operated by BP, is thought to be under $2 billion. The decision came as part of the companys plan to offload $20 billion in assets. Auchincloss aims to complete between $3 billion and $4 billion of divestments in 2025, having already agreed deals with a total value of $1.5 billion. BP claimed, "we are no longer the best owners for advancing its U.S. wind business. It also likely comes in response to a crackdown on wind energy under President Donald Trumps administration. William Lin, the head of BPs gas and low-carbon energy business, said, We have been clear that while low-carbon energy has a role to play in a simpler, more focused BP, we will continue to rationalise and optimise our portfolio to generate value. The onshore US wind business has great assets and fantastic people, but we have concluded we are no longer the best owners to take it forward. British oil major BP has rapidly backtracked on its progress towards developing a more diversified energy portfolio, including renewable energy projects. The firm now plans to pursue higher oil and gas output to increase its profit margins. It is not the only oil major to have stalled in terms of green progress, as many fossil fuel companies have increased their output as oil and gas prices have risen in recent years. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The FRC's investigation will specifically examine whether Deloitte adequately considered the risk of non-compliance with laws and regulations during their audits of Glencore. The probe was launched because Glencore has been subject to multiple investigations by government agencies regarding misconduct, including bribery allegations and fines. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has initiated an investigation into Deloitte's statutory audits of Glencore plc and Glencore Energy UK Limited for the financial years 2013 to 2020. On Wednesday morning, the accountancy regulator announced that it has launched an investigation into Deloitte over audits related to the FTSE 100 giant Glencore. Glencore is one of the worlds largest commodity trading houses. Its operations span coal mining, energy trading and shipping, and it trades hundreds of billions of dollars in commodities every year through its trading and marketing arm. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) commenced its probe into the statutory audits conducted by Deloitte of the financial statements of Glencore plc and Glencore Energy UK Limited for the financial years ended 31 December 2013 to 31 December 2020. Glencores legal battles Glencore has been at the heart of several regulatory investigations and legal battles. Last year, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) charged five former Glencore employees with allegations of conspiring to make corrupt payments to benefit Glencores oil operations in West Africa. In the same year, Glencore was ordered by the Swiss authorities to pay a fine and compensation totalling around 119m following a probe into the bribery of a Congolese public official by its business partner in 2011. In 2022, a London judge ordered a UK subsidiary of Glencore to pay a total sum of 281m over an international bribery scandal in which its staff had paid almost $29m in bribes to officials in Africa. The FRC said it opened a probe as Glencore has been subject to investigations by government agencies into misconduct. The FRCs investigation will include whether Deloitte gave sufficient consideration to the risk of non-compliance with laws and regulations. ? The Big Four giant has been hit with four sanctions over the last five years, with fines (post-discount) totalling over 18.5m. Commenting on the new investigation, a Deloitte UK spokesperson said: We are committed to the highest standards of audit quality and will fully co-operate with the Financial Reporting Council. By City AM More Top Reads From Oilprice.com This month, Finland switched on the worlds biggest sand battery, which will enable residents to eliminate oil from their district heating network, thereby cutting emissions by nearly 70 percent, according to Euro News. And if it keeps running as cheaply and efficiently as it appears to be doing now, dont be surprised if sand batteries start popping up around the world even in your neck of the woods. The battery, built by Finnish company Polar Night Energy, employs a form of thermal energy storage by using excess clean electricity to heat sand to searingly high temperatures. The sand holds onto this thermal energy, to be released back to the grid as needed to heat homes and provide energy for local industry. This isnt Finlands first sand battery, but its far and away its biggest. The groundbreaking model in Pornainen, Finland is an insulated silo measuring 13 meters tall and 15 meters across, and holds 2,000 tonnes of soapstone that has been crushed into sand. The sand is remarkably efficient at maintaining its heat, losing only 10 percent to 15 percent from storage to recovery, according to The Cool Down. Altogether, the model can hold a whopping 100MWh of energy for weeks at a time, which would be enough to heat the entire town center even in the middle of a Nordic winter, according to a recent report from the World Economic Forum. When the heat from the battery is released, it can still be as hot as 400 Celsius (752 Fahrenheit). Energy storage, and especially long-term energy storage is becoming increasingly necessary as global energy grids become more reliant on variable energy sources like wind and solar. Energy storage can capture excess energy when the sun is shining and the wind is blowing, and then feed that back into the energy grid when demand outstrips supply. Thermal energy storage could be an excellent way to accomplish this with relative simplicity. While Finlands newest sand battery was just fired up earlier this month, the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of the model are already turning heads. Price-wise, it's hard to imagine a cheaper energy storage system, reports The Cool Down. The pulverized soapstone inside Pornainen's sand battery was discarded from a fireplace maker. But as they say, one mans trash is another mans game-changing clean energy innovation. TechCrunch estimates that the Finnish battery costs less than $25 per kilowatt-hour of storage. By comparison, the leading technology lithium-ion batteries cost approximately $115 per kilowatt-hour of storage. And lithium-ion batteries hold onto energy for a matter of hours, not days or weeks. Plus, since the incredibly low-tech sand battery technology relies on recycled materials, it doesnt face the same supply-chain woes as lithium-ion battery storage. What is more, while lithium is associated with clean energy tech, lithium extraction can be extremely harmful to the environment. Using cast-off crushed rock is a cheaper, more eco-friendly, and more democratizing alternative, since it can be adopted in virtually any environment and does not rely on imports and vulnerable global supply chains. Basically, sand batteries are looking like a win-win-win. With high specific heat, low thermal conductivity, and no risk of fire, sand-based energy storage systems are gaining traction in grid-scale and industrial heating applications, Interesting Engineering reported late last week in an article detailing why they think that the next big energy-storage device could be a 1000?C sand battery. While Finland is leading the way in developing and deploying sand batteries, its not the only country investing in the technology. Last April, the United States Department of Energy (under the Biden Administration) announced that it would provide $4 million to fund a pilot sand battery project outside of Boulder, Colorado at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)s Flatiron campus. The NREL team has calculated that a commercial-scale system based on their model would be able to retain more than 95 percent of its heat for a minimum of five days. Moreover, the team reported that a targeted levelized cost of storage of 5/kWh could be achieved under a variety of scenarios, according to PV Magazine. However, the fate of this project is not entirely clear under the new administration. By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com The article highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, particularly in relation to Israel-Iran conflicts and their potential influence on oil production and global oil flow. A potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could significantly impact global supply chains and lead to a shock in oil prices, affecting countries like Japan, China, and India the most. The Strait of Hormuz is identified as one of the world's most critical oil chokepoints, with a staggering volume of oil passing through it annually. The total volume of oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz stands around a staggering $600 billion. While a blockade of the strait is considered a distant possibility, its closure could ripple across global supply chain networks. In particular, Japan, China, and India would be impacted the most. Furthermore, a shock to oil prices would likely affecting production costs, in turn raising the price of consumer goods. This graphic, via Visual Capitalist's Dorothy Neufeld, shows the most vital oil transit chokepoints, based on data from MUFG. The Strait of Hormuz and Oil Trade Flows Below, we show how the Strait of Hormuz sees the second-highest volume of oil passing through its corridor globally: In 2023, 20.9 million barrels of oil flowed through the Strait of Hormuz, which lies between Iran and Oman. Iran largely controls this waterway, where 20% of global oil consumption is transported across this shipping route. In response to Israel-Iran conflicts, oil production surged by 950,000 barrels per day in Junelargely driven by Saudi Arabian output. While tensions have recently flared between Israel and Syria, it remains to be seen if conflict will resurface with Iran. Earlier in July, Israeli officials met with Trump to discuss certain scenarios that would justify a future attack on Iranincluding the resumption of nuclear enrichment activities. By Zerohedge.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com California officials are stepping into the fray to urgently find a buyer for Valeros Benicia refinery before its scheduled closure in April 2026, a rare move that underscores the states growing anxiety over fuel security and price volatility. According to Reuters, in an exclusive report on Wednesday, the state has opened talks with potential buyers, including HF Sinclair and at least one unnamed European energy firm, to take over the Bay Area facility and preserve in-state refining capacity. The 149,000 barrels-per-day refinery is one of just 10 still operating in California. Its shutdown, combined with the planned 2026 closure of Valeros Wilmington facility in Los Angeles County, could reduce the states gasoline and diesel production by nearly 17%. In a position of desperation, the California Energy Commission is leading the effort to broker a deal, with support from the governors office. The move is an attempt to avoid severe market disruptions and cushion consumers from steep price spikes. The stakes are particularly high. State modeling suggests that removing Benicia from the refining system could push pump prices toward $8 per gallon, particularly during summer demand peaks. Analysts warn that the closures could also reduce fuel inventories and strain supply chains across the western U.S. As KQED reported earlier this month, Benicia city officials were blindsided by Valeros June 28 announcement. Local leaders fear the loss of one of their top employers and taxpayers, Benicia receives roughly 40% of its general fund from refinery-linked revenues. It was a complete surprise, said Vice Mayor Terry Scott, noting the lack of prior consultation from Valero. The refinery employs about 500 workers and supplies fuel to major Bay Area terminals. If no buyer is found, dismantling could begin as early as 2027. While California has long pushed for an energy transition, state officials are now grappling with the near-term consequences of rapid fossil fuel phase-outs that risks destabilizing energy infrastructure. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com Indian refiner Nayara Energy, in which Russias top oil firm Rosneft holds 49%, is already experiencing disruption to its fuel exports, days after the EU sanctioned the refiner for being a major customer of Russian crude. Last Friday, the EU adopted the 18th sanctions package against Russia, targeting a hundred more shadow fleet tankers, energy trade, and traders and banks enabling it. In a first move against customers of Russian oil, the EU expanded sanctions on entities doing business with Russian oil, including via asset freezes, travel bans, bans on providing resources. The bloc sanctioned Russian and international companies managing shadow fleet vessels, traders of Russian crude oil, and a major customer of the shadow fleet the Nayara Energy refinery in India with Rosneft as its main shareholder. The Indian refiner has changed the payment terms to sell a spot naphtha cargo seeking advance payment or a letter of credit from the potential buyer for loading of the cargo in mid-August, a tender document seen by Reuters showed on Monday. In addition, a tanker chartered by BP left on Sunday the Indian port of Vadinar without loading ultra-low sulfur diesel from Nayaras terminal, Reuters reported, quoting industry sources and vessel-tracking data from LSEG. The booking was cancelled after the EU sanctions, shipbrokers told Bloomberg on Tuesday. Another tanker, chartered by PetroChina, will not be loading diesel at Nayaras Vadinar port the end of this month en route to Southeast Asia, sources told Reuters on Wednesday. The tanker, the Chang Hang Xing Yun, is expected instead to load ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) from Kuwait on August 1 and head to East Africa, per LSEG ship-tracking data and a shipping source who spoke to Reuters on Wednesday. Moreover, due to the fresh EU sanctions targeting oil derivatives made from Russian crude in third countries, Indian refiners would likely need to tap the services of fuel traders to find new markets for their output. India is one of the largest buyers of Russian crude, and a lot of the fuels it makes from that crude end up on the European market. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Exxon is reportedly in talks with the government of Trinidad and Tobago for oil exploration in up to seven offshore blocks, according to unnamed sources who spoke to Reuters. Per the report, the Trinidad and Tobago blocks are in close proximity to Exxons Stabroek block offshore Guyana. We are in discussions with major players to ramp up exploration and production within and outside of bid rounds, the energy minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Roodlal Moonilal, told Reuters. We are currently considering one such proposal, and if the negotiations are successful, a major announcement will soon be made, the minister also said without mentioning names. The Caribbean nation is the largest oil and gas producer in the region and ranks 17th in the world. Its oil and gas industry is seen growing at a compound annual rate of 4.4% over the decade to 2030, with companies involved in that growth including BP, Shell, and Spains Repsol. Earlier this year, the Trinidad and Tobago government announced plans to tender 26 offshore blocks along its eastern and northern coast. The deadline for submissions was July 2, and the winning bids will be announced in three months. The blocks subject to that tender, however, do not include the seven blocks that Exxon is in talks about, Reuters noted in its report. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobagos neighbor Guyana has become the fifth-largest oil exporter in Latin America in less than a decade, output has grown from 400,000 bpd to over 660,000 bpd in a matter of months, and Exxons plans to boost this to 1.3 million bpd by 2030 seem perfectly realistic. Exxon recently got itself a new partner in Guyanas Stabroek block, after Chevron won the arbitration case against Exxon concerning its acquisition of Hess Corp. Its expansion in the region marks a natural development from the success in Guyana. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Protests have erupted for a second night in the Iranian city of Sabzevar, as residents took to the streets over prolonged electricity and water outages during a record-breaking heatwave. Security forces reportedly fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators, who chanted no water, no power, while temperatures soared above 48C, according to Iranian media reports. The unrest highlights growing infrastructure stress as Iran faces its hottest summer in decades. Officials declared a public holiday on Tuesday in Tehran and at least 10 other provinces, ordering all government offices closed to reduce grid strain and conserve water. President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged citizens to cut water usage by 20%, warning of further supply cuts if demand continues at current levels, according to the Financial Times. Reservoir levels across the country are at generational lows, and national power consumption has repeatedly exceeded 70,000 megawatts in recent days. Power disruptions now extend beyond rural regions into major cities including Isfahan, Mashhad, and southern Tehran, according to Al-Monitor. Meanwhile, Irans oil exports are surging. According to PressTV, citing data from tanker tracker Vortexa, crude and condensate exports in June averaged nearly 1.9 million barrels per day. During the first half of the month, loadings briefly peaked at 2.5 million bpd. China remained the leading destination for Irans exports, receiving more than 1.7 million barrels per day. The surge comes despite ongoing U.S. sanctions and stricter EU price cap enforcement. Iran has continued to rely on a shadow fleet and opaque routing tactics to sustain flows into Asia. Iran is now exporting more oil than at any point in recent years, even as blackouts fuel street protests at home, as the regime appears to prioritize the movement of crude exports over cost to the domestic grid. At the same time, it is playing a tricky geopolitical game over its nuclear program. On Monday, the UK, Germany, and France tentatively agreed to hold nuclear talks with Iran in Istanbul at the end of this week. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Russias natural gas production fell 3.2% in the first half of 2025, reaching 334.8?billion cubic meters (bcm), as higher exports to China and increased domestic demand failed to offset the collapse of pipeline flows to Europe, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday. The drop, confirmed by federal statistics and Bloomberg analysis, reflects the structural impact of Ukraines January decision to terminate its gas transit deal with Moscow. That route had accounted for over 15?bcm in 2024, making it the last significant corridor to the EU following earlier shutdowns and sabotage. With the Ukrainian corridor gone, Russia is now relying on limited capacity via TurkStream, which has seen rising shipments to Slovakia but remains insufficient to restore previous export levels, Bloomberg reported. China, now Russias top gas customer, has boosted intake via the Power of Siberia pipeline by more than 20% this year, occasionally surpassing contractual minimums. Yet the pipelines 38?bcm annual capacity is nearly maxed out, and no additional volumes are expected until a new Far East route comes online in 2027. Meanwhile, domestic consumption has increased, driven by a cold spring and the governments continued expansion of household and industrial gas access. Gazprom has also secured long-term deals with Central Asian nations, but these new contracts offer modest volume relief compared to the scale of lost European demand, as per Bloomberg. Efforts to deepen ties with China face headwinds as talks over the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline remain stalled. Western sanctions continue to squeeze Russias energy revenues, with the EUs July enforcement of a $47.60 per barrel price cap further constraining Moscows ability to monetize its oil exportscompounding financial pressure across the energy sector. At this point, Russias gas sector is poised to remain in contraction until new infrastructure or export markets come online. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com As U.S. President Donald Trump touted the largest trade deal in history with Japan, he also noted that the United States and Japan are set to conclude another deal to form a joint venture for LNG in Alaska. We concluded the one deal ... and now we're going to conclude another one because they're forming a joint venture with us at, in Alaska, as you know, for the LNG, President Trump said in comments on the deal to GOP lawmakers at the White House. They're all set to make that deal now, the president added. The U.S. has completed what President Trump touted on Truth Social as a massive Deal with Japan, perhaps the largest Deal ever made. Under the trade agreement, Japans goods imported in the United States will face a 15% tariff, lower than the 24% proposed in early April and the 25% tariff President Trump proposed earlier this month with effect from August 1. The trade deal now calls for a 15% tariff on Japanese goods imported in the United States. However, President Trumps additional remarks and assurances that the U.S. and Japan will conclude a joint venture deal for LNG in Alaska was not immediately confirmed by Japan. A Japanese government official at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) told Reuters that the ministry is working to confirm President Trumps comments. Japanese companies have been considering investments in the $44-billion Alaska LNG project, but so far they have appeared to be concerned that the costs may be too high, considering the cold weather in Alaska and the scale of the pipelines needed to bring the project on stream. Last week, reports emerged that Indias state-controlled natural gas firm GAIL (India) Ltd has started discussions about buying liquefied natural gas from the proposed Alaska LNG project. Energy companies are ready to commit to buying $115 billion worth of LNG from Alaska once President Trumps pet energy project gets done, the company in charge of the project, Glenfarne, said last month, noting that as many as 50 companies have expressed formal interest. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Besezaki, or Cape Bise, is located at the northwest corner of Motobu Peninsula in the northern part of Okinawas main island. It is known for its beautiful beach and unique landscape. Though Id visited Bise Settlement several times, Id never stopped at the beach on the northern end of the street before. The curious landscape intrigued me to stop after my recent trip to Ie Island. Getting to this beach was a bit complicated. Reaching Motobu Peninsula by driving two hours from the mid-section of the island was simple, but the last 10 minutes were spent maneuvering Bises tiny roads. It was daunting. By the time I got to the gate, it was already 1 p.m. I paid the 500-yen parking fee (about $3.42) and quickly changed into a swimsuit and headed to the sandy shore. Although this is a secluded spot, there were surprisingly many tourists having fun in the water. (Map by Stripes Okinawa) MIIUGAN My first plan was to join the others and just take it easy. But as I approached the water, a small island in an elongated shape running from southeast to northwest came into my sight. According to a billboard posted on site, this island called Miiugan by the locals. The broad coral reef was exposed by the low tide and the small island was then accessible from the beach. I changed my plan to splash around and instead made my way toward Miiugan for some exploration. On the way, I spent some time observing tropical fish in the shallow waters. Blue damselfish were busy cruising through the sunlit water or taking it easy in the shade of the coral. Most portions of the reef were dry, but there were still water puddles here and there. As I accidentally stepped in some of them, I was surprised to find how hot the water felt due to the strong sunshine. (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) According to the signage, the island measures around 400 meters or more on each side. The number didnt seem big when I first saw it, but as I reached the island, the distance looked enormous. The exposed coral reefs spread toward the horizon like a desert by the sea. Many puddles dotting the surface seemed like small oases, or onsens, given their temperature. A few fishermen were casting lines on the border between the reef and the sea. Trying to join the anglers, I walked away from the small island and toward the edge of the reef. But I stopped on the way as I spotted many crevices, offering a peek into the deep ocean underneath. Even 10 meters from the edge, the view was extraordinary, like standing in the middle of the ocean. After a while, I headed back to the small island, walking toward its northwest point. Along the way, I spotted a cave that runs through its rock walls, which could have led me to the other (south) side of the island. Soon I reached the foot of a lighthouse. I circled the tip of the small cape and found stone steps that leading to the high ground where the lighthouse stood. As I was trying to approach the steps, huge rocks were standing in the way, so getting wet was inevitable to reach the steps. (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) I didnt want to get in the water then, so I carried on toward the end of the reef instead of continuing to the lighthouse. Beyond the sea, I could now see Ie Island, a remote island which I had visited only a month ago. Mt. Gusuku, Ie Islands symbol, seemed to lure me and the broad, flat ground almost made it feel like I could keep walking over the ocean toward Ie. At the edge of the coast, the deep blue water started to rise, bringing me back to reality. The tide would soon rise again, so it was time to go back to Bise Beach. FUKUGI STREET Once I was back on the main island, I headed to Bise Settlement for a walk along the old streets lined with fukugi trees. The tall trees are called fukugi in Japanese, but in Chinese letters, the name means Good Luck Tree. There is an estimated 18,000 fukugi trees lining the streets in Bise Settlement alone. These trees have been there since the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429-1879), according to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Fukugi trees are impressive and functional as they were used as fences or windbreakers, which is why local residents have taken good care of them. Walking in the shade of the trees thick green leaves, I enjoyed the calm atmosphere. (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) The last time I went there, some folks were riding a water buffalo cart. However, the activity is now available only on weekends, so tourists were riding e-scooters instead on the Wednesday I visited. The change of time felt a bit melancholic. The streets run for about 1 kilometer north to south, parallel to the west coast of Motobu Peninsula. They were connected to each other by smaller streets called sooji. Going from one street to another, it almost felt like being in a labyrinth. Although there were cafes and eateries along the streets, many of them were closed when I passed them around 3 p.m. Luckily, I found Parlor Hajimekunchi, a small shaved-ice store. I bought a cup of mango-flavored shaved ice for just 200 yen and added a condensed milk topping for 50 yen. Although it was nothing fancy, the shaved ice was a nice, inexpensive treat to pair with the beautiful ocean view. Bisezaki GPS Coordinates: 26.709732, 127.880075 Parking fee: 500 yen Fukugi Street GPS Coordinates: 26.707970, 127.880858 (north end) Parlor Hajimekunchi On Wednesday morning of last week Arizona families awoke to news that law enforcement agencies had conducted simultaneous raids on Colt Grill in four locations in Northern Arizona and one in Alabama the day before. From AZFamily: Details of the investigation remain limited. The Yavapai County Sheriffs Office, Homeland Security and multiple other federal agencies were at Colt Grill locations in Arizona and Alabama as part of a money laundering and labor exploitation probe. Colt Grill has locations in Cottonwood, Prescott Valley, Prescott and Sedona in Arizona. It recently opened a location in Foley, Alabama. According to Arizonas Family sister station WALA, the Foley location was also raided on Tuesday. Colt Grill was not immediately available for comment. A spokesperson with the Department of Homeland Security said the investigation is ongoing and did not provide any further details. A subsequent press release from the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) provided additional details: PRESCOTT, Ariz. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and multiple state, local and federal law enforcement agencies executed federal search warrants July 15 at five Colt Grill restaurants and 12 residences in two states after a three-year labor exploitation investigation and a five-count federal indictment against four individuals in Arizona. Significant assistance was provided by the Yavapai County Sheriffs Office with execution of the search warrants. A grand jury in Phoenix returned an indictment May 27, against Robert and Brenda Clouston, both 61, of northern Arizona, and Luis Pedro Rogel-Jaimes, 33, and Iris Romero-Molina, 29, both illegal aliens from Mexican residing in Cottonwood, Arizona, for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens, conspiracy to encourage and induce an alien to unlawfully enter the United States, and pattern and practice of knowingly employing unauthorized aliens. * * * The indictment alleges that Robert and Brenda Clouston operated four Colt Grill restaurants in the northern Arizona cities of Cottonwood, Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Sedona, and one Colt Grill in Foley, Alabama. In September 2022, the Cloustons, along with Rogel-Jaimes and Romero-Molina, made a plan that Romero-Molina would create a cleaning company, R&R AZ Cleaning, that would operate as a staffing company for the Colt Grill restaurants. Rogel-Jaimes and Romero-Molina would then find undocumented workers to work at the restaurants, paying them through R&R AZ Cleaning with funds from Colt Grill. The undocumented workers were paid below minimum wage and were not compensated for overtime. The Cloustons, Rogel-Jaimes, and Romero-Molina benefited financially from the plan and did not pay proper employment taxes for the workers. I write this column with some mixed feelings. This is the first summer that we will spend in Prescott Valley to escape the blistering heat of our home in PebbleCreek (Goodyear, AZ). More so we began the transition the last week in May of this year the same week that the indictments referenced above were handed down but apparently remained sealed. And even more so that is the same week that we dined at Colt Grill on historical Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott for the first time. Colt Grill quickly became one of our favorite spots because of good service and great barbecue. So we were one of those Prescott Valley families that was surprised by the headline and the follow up stories. The reason for the mixed emotions was not that this involved illegal aliens, or this is another instance where the little guy was put upon by big government while its larger competitors escaped scrutiny for the very same sins; but rather because this was an instance in which the employer of illegal aliens allegedly got torched right along with the illegals in what appears to be a deliberate evasion of the law rather rather than negligent ignorance of the status of employees. In the meantime, all four restaurants in Arizona remained closed and, according to the news media, some 200 people have lost their jobs. The future of Colt Grill remains unsettled but restaurants cannot last long with the doors locked. The federal government under then President Bill Clinton initiated the E-Verify system in 1996 in light of the growing number of illegal aliens crossing our Southern border. It was a pretty simple and quick system for employers to use to verity the residency status of employees online. (Employers are just as guilty as employees if they hire illegal aliens.) But as usual the federal government was quick to issue the press releases taking credit and to issue rules signifying effort and, thereafter, to pretty much ignore it at least ignore it in terms of active enforcement. And when the federal government largely ignored it, so did the business community. The surprising thing about it was that it was an absolute defense for employers if they used the system and got erroneous information from the government.* It is hard to know when the Democrat Party seized upon the idea of enlarging their voter base with yet another population dependent in whole on the largesse of the governments purse. Perhaps because, despite efforts to constrain existing groups to minority status and lives on the edge of the poverty line through federal welfare programs, women and minorities were beginning to emerge from that poverty and dependence and were demonstrating their independence from the Democrats dependence through poverty and welfare. Thus they needed a fresh group of adults to restock their ranks. This time it was a pretty easy formula: relax border enforcement, encourage mass illegal immigration, blame it on the current immigration system, get a critical mass say twenty or thirty million illegals and declare the problem so complex that only mass amnesty was the solution. Viola an immediate jump of twenty to thirty million new voters who were grateful to the Democrats and dependent on the Democrats welfare programs. It was so simple and so audacious that no one would believe that a political party would do such a thing but they did. But in doing so they did not want to alienate the mainstreet business community so they gave them an out from hiring illegals the E-Verify system. And that, in part, is what is at play here based on the allegations of the indictments although according to the indictments the defendants allegedly went well beyond failing to verify legal residency of employees. Now here is the point. I dont know whether Colt Grill, its officers and employees are guilty of the acts charged or not. However, until employers are held to account for knowingly hiring (and often times cheating) illegal aliens, they will continue to provide inducement for continued violation of our border security and our immigration laws. The same, quite frankly, is true for the government employees who continue to provide welfare assistance to illegal aliens contrary to law, and to local governments who continue to assist illegal aliens in avoiding arrest, detention, trail and deportation. The inconsistencies between what the government adopts as law and the instances when it chooses to ignore those laws is tearing at the very fabric of democracy. Remember democracy is a voluntary effort a choice to obey without force. Those in government who choose to ignore the law not only hinder its enforcement but sets a tone for its citizens who now feel empowered to similarly ignore it. ______________________________________ * Erroneous information from the federal government? When did that ever happen? Rep. Dwayne Yunker Slams Governors Transportation Plan:This Is a Tax Grab, Not a Solution By Oregon State Representative Dwayne Yunker, GRANTS PASS, OR Following the briefing to the legislature by Governor Koteks office on her newly announced transportation special session of the legislature, Representative Dwayne Yunker (R-Grants Pass) issued a sharp rebuke, calling the plan politically motivated, economically reckless, and light on answers. Were looking at increases in gas taxes, registration fees, title transfers, even payroll taxes, said Representative Yunker. The Governor wants more state money and doesnt care if she crushes working families and businesses to get it. Representative Yunker criticized the lack of transparency from the Governors office: Ive asked multiple times for real answers and real data. So far, Ive received neither. No economic impact analysis from the Office of Economic Analysis. No breakdown of which ODOT departments would really be cut without a tax increase. Just vague talking points and more politics. One glaring omission in todays briefing? Any mention of cuts to ODOTs $25 million Social Equity & Civil Rights (DEI) division. With roughly 500 layoffs under consideration, why is DEI completely off the table? said Representative Yunker. Republicans have been clear: we can avoid these tax hikes by eliminating non-essential spending and preserving our federal transportation dollars. We dont need a special session, and we certainly dont need to raise taxes on Oregonians, said Representative Yunker. This proposal isnt serious. Its more of the same and Oregon deserves better. U.S. exits UNESCO again, agency calls move "regrettable" but "expected" Xinhua) 09:24, July 23, 2025 WASHINGTON, July 22 (Xinhua) -- The United States announced Tuesday its decision to pull out of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization two years after rejoining. According to a statement by the U.S. State Department, the withdrawal was due to what Washington saw as the UN cultural agency's policy to "advance divisive social and cultural causes" over the Israel-Palestine conflicts. "UNESCO's decision to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a member state is highly problematic, contrary to U.S. policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization," the statement said. The U.S. exit will take effect at the end of December 2026. Meanwhile, UNESCO said Tuesday the U.S. exit was regrettable but came as no surprise. "However regrettable, this announcement was expected, and UNESCO has prepared for it," UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said in a statement. This will be the third time that Washington has left UNESCO, and the second time during the administration under Donald Trump. Since his second term in office started early this year, the Trump administration had announced its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on climate change, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations Human Rights Council. Washington has long had a contentious relationship with UNESCO, repeatedly withdrawing over political grievances. In 1984, the Ronald Reagan administration pulled the United States out of the agency, citing what it called the UN body's ideological tilt toward the former Soviet Union against the West, and the United States stayed away till 2003. In November 2011, the Barack Obama administration cut off funding for the UN cultural agency, after its member countries defied a U.S. warning and approved a Palestinian bid for full membership in the body. (Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun) Akkodis is joining forces with leading European partners to create innovative traffic management solutions that enhance sustainable urban mobility across Europe. VIENNA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Akkodis, a global digital engineering company and part of the Adecco Group, is proud to participate in the EU-funded FEDORA[1] project (Federation of Network Optimisation Services, Simulation Foresights, and Data Alchemy for Adaptable, Agile, Secure, and Resilient Multimodal Traffic Management). Coordinated by ERTICO ITS Europe, the initiative, officially launched on June 1st, brings together a strong consortium of institutions focused on solving today's pressing mobility challenges. Traffic management in the EU project FEDORA. Image credit: Akkodis The FEDORA project addresses key limitations in current traffic management systems, including a lack of orchestration when addressing multi-modal needs in structured integration protocols and in the incorporation of real-world traffic complexities. These gaps have led to suboptimal performance in managing mobility services and a divergence from the EU's sustainability targets. To tackle these challenges, FEDORA will develop a federated digital platform that enables advanced, real-time sensing and forecasting of transport supply and demand, supporting more efficient, sustainable movement of people and goods. At the operational level, FEDORA will offer a collaborative data space from which advanced data processes using interconnected service and tools can be developed. It will also focus on the development of advanced traffic management optimization services and a multi-modal simulation environment to create and assess future mobility scenarios. The approach will be validated through six thematic demonstrations in diverse contexts, including Vienna, the Basque Country, Reggio Emilia, Nicosia, Budapest, and Copenhagen, addressing varying urban and rural conditions, infrastructure maturity levels, and multimodal mobility service availability. The demonstration phase is set to start in summer 2026, with Vienna as the first pilot city. Akkodis brings proven expertise to FEDORA, having previously coordinated the Horizon 2020-funded MobiDataLab project, which advanced data sharing among mobility stakeholders across Europe. The methodologies and cloud-based service platform developed in MobiDataLab now serve as a foundation for FEDORA's data space and will be expanded as part of the new initiative. FEDORA is anticipated to deliver several outcomes that will significantly improve the transport network and traffic oversight. It aims to enhance the multimodal transport system, ensuring efficient door-to-door mobility for both passengers and goods. Additionally, the initiative will develop effective solutions for secure data sharing across different transport modes, fostering a dynamic and responsive management framework. "Akkodis is committed to leveraging its expertise in digital engineering to contribute to the success of the FEDORA project. By collaborating with ERTICO, the City of Vienna, and a strong network of partners, Akkodis aims to improve the efficiency of decarbonized transport solutions in complex environments, promoting their desirability in order to support the EU's vision for sustainable mobility," comments Tanguy Deren, Director of Innovation at Akkodis France. Contacts Anne Friedrich SVP, Global Head of Communications, Akkodis E. [email protected] Meldina Kurti Director, Business Partner Communications Germany, Akkodis E. [email protected] Maria Sole Quaglio External Communications Manager Germany, Akkodis E. [email protected] About Akkodis Akkodis is a global digital engineering company and Smart Industry leader. We enable clients to advance in their digital transformation with Consulting, Solutions, Talent, and Academy services. Headquartered in Switzerland and part of the Adecco Group, Akkodis is a trusted tech partner to the world's industries. We co-create and pioneer solutions that help to solve major challenges, from accelerating the clean energy transition and green mobility, to improving user and patient centricity. Empowered by a culture of inclusion and diversity, our 50,000 tech experts across 30 countries combine best-in-class technologies and cross industry knowledge to drive purposeful innovation for a more sustainable tomorrow. We are passionate about Engineering a Smarter Future Together. akkodis.com | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook| X About The Adecco Group The Adecco Group is the world's leading talent company. Our purpose is making the future work for everyone. Through our three global business units - Adecco, Akkodis and LHH - across 60 countries, we enable sustainable and lifelong employability for individuals, deliver digital and engineering solutions to power the Smart Industry transformation and empower organizations to optimize their workforces. The Adecco Group leads by example and is committed to an inclusive culture, fostering sustainable employability, and supporting resilient economies and communities. The Adecco Group AG is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland (ISIN: CH0012138605) and listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ADEN). https://www.adeccogroup.com/ [1] This project has received funding from a Research and Innovation Action under Horizon Europe Framework with Grant Agreement No 101203465. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736167/Akkodis.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2598662/5426322/Akkodis_Logo.jpg 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) Superimposed 3D models of MT0200 and a skull of extant black caiman (Melanosuchus niger UF-Herp-53600). Both models at the same scale, the M. niger model is archived on Morphosource (https://doi.org/10.17602/M2/M359353). Total length estimated for the specimen of M. niger is 4.84 meters and is used here as an analogy to a medium sized Purussaurus (skull or mandible not available) [49]. Scale bar is 50 mm. (b) Detail of the superimposed model, showing the close match between the teeth of UF-Herp-53600 and the tooth marks on MT-0200. Scale bar is 50 mm. (c) Artistic representation of a caimanine alligatorid (Purussaurus neivensis) preying on a large phorusrhacid bird. (d) Artistic representation of a caimanine alligatorid (Purussaurus neivensis) scavenging on a large phorusrhacid bird. Illustrations by Julian Bayona Becerra. Credit: Biology Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2025.0113 The La Venta fossil site in Colombia is home to a rich fossil record, yielding a particularly diverse set of vertebrate fossil assemblages. The giant terror bird (phorusrhacid) and caimana large crocodile-like reptilewere known to be two of the apex predators roaming this region during the middle Miocene epoch. Although the terror bird was a terrestrial predator and the caiman was an aquatic predator, new evidence shows that they occasionally crossed paths, and that these meetings did not go well for the terror bird. A new study, published in Biology Letters, details the analysis of a terror bird's leg bone, which was found to have a set of tooth marks that resulted in the bird's death. Until this finding, there had been little evidence that these predators ever interacted with each other. However, the study authors note that terrestrial and aquatic predators may have met at certain times. "Terrestrial apex predators may preferentially wander close to water sourcesespecially in dry seasonsas these areas may set an ideal scenario for terrestrial predators to feed on aquatic taxa, or to attempt to prey on other taxa obliged to drink water from water sources. Thus, aquatic predators can prey on terrestrial vertebratesincluding apex predatorsas they approach water sources, similar to what is known from aquatic water holes in Africa," the researchers write. The fossilized bone of the terror bird was found with four distinct tooth marks. The researchers analyzed the marks using 3D surface scanning and digital modeling and found them to most closely match a caiman species called Purussaurus neivensis, a species which was native to the La Venta area around the same time the terror bird existed. The tooth marks showed no signs of healing, meaning the terror bird died around the time of the encounter. However, the researchers note that it's possible that the bite could have occurred after the death of the bird, as a scavenging event rather than direct predation. Either way, it was clear that the terror bird did not go on to live after the encounter. The frequency of apex predator encounters like this remains unknown, and there is still some uncertainty around whether the reptile was a Purussaurus neivensis or another similar species. Still, this finding provides a rare glimpse into the complex world of prehistoric ecosystems and predator-prey dynamics, showing that even giant terror birds might be subject to attacks from other predators. Written for you by our author Krystal Kasal, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Andrew Zininthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you. More information: Andres Link et al, Direct evidence of trophic interaction between a crocodyliform and a large terror bird in the Middle Miocene of La Venta, Colombia, Biology Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2025.0113 Journal information: Biology Letters 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 Floating about 500 feet offshore of Illinois Beach State Park, Hillary Glandon tightened her scuba goggles, grabbed a small masonite plate from a nearby kayak and dove beneath the Lake Michigan surface. The masonite plate, called a Hester-Dendy sampler, helps biologists like Glandon scrape algae off underwater rocks. Just a few feet below the surface, she reached a huge underwater ridge made of limestone and other rocks piled into 750-foot rows parallel to the coast. On this dive in late June, a crew of four scuba divers ferried equipment back and forth between the kayaks and the underwater ridges, collecting sediment samples near the boulders and dropping off underwater cameras on the bottom of the lake. As the divers continued their work, a thick morning fog began to fade, giving way to clear blue waters. From the surface, schools of juvenile fish could be spotted drifting between patches of sunlight at the bottom of the ridges. These structures, called "rubble ridges," aren't just typical rocky reefs found on the bottom of the Great Lakesthey're entirely man-made. "We just want to see, are these reefs impacting aquatic biodiversity as well as sediment retention?" Glandon said. "We're trying to get the whole picture of the aquatic community, and in order to do that, we need to sample in a lot of different ways. It allows us to not only look at the sediment but also the critters that are living in there." Man-made reefs have become a popular way to provide a habitat for fish in coastal communities. The rubble ridges, however, are also designed as a cost-effective tool to prevent erosion. Each ridge sits about 3 to 5 feet beneath the lake's surface, which allows them to block some of the energy and sediments carried by waves during intense winter storms. When these waves reach the coast, they don't hit the shoreline as hard, which slows the process of erosion. And the gaps between each ridge help to retain some sediment without fully stopping the natural flow of sand. "The designers call it passive sand management, just to slow erosion down when it's the worst," said Steve Brown, the Illinois state geologist. "That was part of the ideaa lower-cost offshore breakwater system. And we're trying to see, does it work like the designers thought it would work?" Glandon and her team of biologists and geologists at the Lake Michigan Biological Station, a research station in Zion run by the University of Illinois, are studying the rubble ridges as part of a pilot project through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Installed at Illinois Beach State Park in 2021 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the ridges are being monitored along with another artificial reef at Fort Sheridan in Highland Park, as well as two control sites, about 2 miles south of each respective reef. In this part of Lake Michigan, just 3 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line, the lake bottom consists of a flat layer of sand, which doesn't usually attract invertebrates and smaller fish. But as Glandon descended onto the rocky ridge, she saw hundreds of fish, from species that tend to stay near the reef year-round, like the round goby, to schools of younger migratory species like alewife that were using the ridge as a nursery habitat. By analyzing both biodiversity and shoreline changes at the reef, researchers are hoping to see whether this new kind of infrastructure could be scaled up as a tool for cities across the Great Lakes. "Lake Michigan is a very dynamic place. It is always changing, and it always wants to change, and it always will change," said Philip Willink, a biologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey and an expert on natural reefs in Chicago. "People don't like that change and are trying to hold the shoreline in stasis, when, in reality, nature wants to erode some shoreline But how do we put that into city planning?" 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. Tracking shoreline changes As Glandon and a crew of three other scuba divers and two kayakers ventured out to sample algae and sediments at the ridges, a few other researchers remained onshore to help handle equipment. It was the research team's first dive of the year, and biologist Scot Peterson could already spot the traces of erosion from the winter's storms. Where a wooden boardwalk had once extended out over the beach, only a small chunk of wood remained, poking out from under a sand dune on a nearby roadbed. Strong waves had gradually weakened the structure over the past few years, and last year, the state park decided to remove it altogether. "Every time I come back, it feels like something has changed," Peterson said. Sights like these are common across the Great Lakes, and Lake Michigan in particular can be especially "unpredictable," said Liz Spitzer, a coastal geologist with the Illinois State Geological Survey. The lake's levels tend to fluctuate from low to high in 10- to 30-year cycles, with levels usually reaching their annual peak during the summer. However, climate change is speeding up these fluctuations, experts say. In January 2013, Lake Michigan was at a record low. Just 3 years later, the lake had risen 4 feet and by July 2020, it nearly broke the record high. Lake levels have always fluctuated, but that has been over a period of decades. Now these shifts are happening within a few years. That variability is attributed to multiple factors, but increased precipitation from climate change is the driving force. Today, lake levels are hovering at about 579 feet, close to the lake's average. At Illinois Beach State Park, these fluctuations have taken a toll, causing extreme erosion along the coastline. Kellogg Creek, located just south of the rubble ridges, has flooded several times over the past few years, damaging one of the buildings that researchers at the Lake Michigan Biological Station used to store samples. The lake bed at the northern part of the beach has eroded away, leaving grass roots exposed as windswept dunes pile up behind the shore. In response, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources approved a massive breakwater installation project in 2019 for the state park. The state spent $73 million to install 22 breakwaters along a 2.2-mile stretch of the state park's shoreline, making it the largest capital project in IDNR history. According to a 2023 release about the breakwaters, the state intended the structures to "guide and direct the movement of the sand instead of simply trying to prevent its movement." The breakwaters, made of stone, are angled slightly to the northwest to block storms that typically come from that direction. IDNR officials did not respond to requests for comment. The breakwaters, along with 430,000 cubic feet of sand that was added to bolster the beach, have helped rehabilitate the beach since construction finished in August 2024. The first chain of breakwaters ends just a few hundred feet north of the rubble ridges. With extreme erosion and other construction projects unfolding at the state park, Glandon said her team has had to deal with several "confounding factors" at this reef site. "The rubble was actually supposed to be built a little bit north of where it currently is, and that's because the large breakwater project was in the process of being designed when the rubble was being implemented," Glandon said. "They moved (the rubble) further south to accommodate those breakwaters." The monitoring project at Illinois Beach State Park began in 2021 and is set to wrap up next year. The other artificial reef site at Fort Sheridan has been monitored since 2023 under a different project. Researchers are comparing the results between the two sites, hoping to explain how reef systems function along different types of shorelines. The shoreline at Fort Sheridan consists mostly of rocky bluffs, and the lake bottom in that area is dotted with small boulders. Each spring, geologists have used drones to map the elevation of the bottom of the lake, allowing them to compare any changes in the lake's topography that happened during the winter storm season and see if the reefs are helping retain sediment. According to the research team's preliminary results, the Fort Sheridan reef has successfully helped to build up some sand. At Illinois Beach State Park, though, erosion has overall increased. Most of this erosion occurred between 2022 and 2024, with very little change happening at the site during the 2025 winter season. "The sediment dynamics, that part of it, is going to be very hard to make any conclusions without a huge asterisk, since they built these big breakwaters," Glandon said. "But what we're hoping to do is kind of zoom out with the geology story, and tell it from the perspective of before they built these big breakwaters and after. We're just trying to be nimble with the way we're sampling." Starved of sand Illinois Beach State Park, which boasts the state's longest continuous stretch of natural shoreline, is somewhat of an anomaly. The park takes up 6.5 of Illinois' 63 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan, and the majority of this coastline consists of man-made structures, such as breakwaters or seawalls. This infrastructure is meant to help protect the urban coastline from eroding. However, it's not how the shoreline naturally functions, according to Spitzer. "Along this stretch of the coast, the dominant current is generally coming from the north, going southward," she said. "Over the past couple of thousand years, with the direction of the dominant current, we've been seeing the sand moving southward over time. And then human activity adds an extra layer of complexity to that, because that compartmentalizes where the sand can go." The goal of most coastal protection structures, like seawalls, is to retain sand that's flowing through the lake. This helps build up extra sand along lakefront beaches and harbors, and lessens the impacts of erosion. Sand was already a scarce resource in southern Lake Michigan before humans began to build coastal infrastructure, according to a 2020 study conducted by Brown and other geological survey researchers, making sand retention in the area particularly vital. But man-made structures, which often run perpendicular to the shore, can also block the natural southward flow of sand. So while seawalls can build up sand in one location, a beach directly downstream of that seawall might face worse erosion as a result. "Every time we create a structure, it stops the sand movement, and you get erosion downstream," said Brown. "And so the real question is that we haven't sorted out how to live along the lake." The rubble ridges were designed to be an "actively moving system," Glandon saidas waves crash against the ridges over several years, researchers expect that some of the boulders will tumble to the bottom, flattening out over time. Since reef structures like the rubble ridges run parallel to the coast, they serve as somewhat of a middle groundthey retain some sand near the coastline but still allow most of it to pass through. So as the sand moves downstream, it leaves more for lakefront properties to the south to use as they build up their own shorelines, helping distribute sediments more evenly across the lake. That's part of the reasoning behind government investments in this project, Glandon said. Currently, most municipalities along the North Shore run their own coastal management programs and tend to build shoreline infrastructure like seawalls without consulting their neighbors. When one town builds a seawall, it creates a so-called domino effectthat can starve neighbors of sand directly to the south, and usually the only solution is to build their own seawalls. "When we have private land ownership, it can be tricky to manage sediment movement that occurs outside of those human-created bounds," Glandon said. Using infrastructure like artificial reefs, or other more natural designs, could help alleviate the need to build seawall after seawall. It also presents a relatively low-cost optioninstalling the rubble ridges cost just over $1.4 million. "One of the hopes of our program is to try to provide this quantitative data on the effects of these structures to give towns and local managers options for ways that they could potentially retain some sand in their areas without impacting their neighbors as much," Glandon said. Building biodiversity From the shores of Fort Sheridan and Illinois Beach State Park, the artificial reefs are invisible, hovering just beneath the surface. For aquatic creatures, though, these rocky reefs are a landmark, rising distinctly above the lake bottom. "Most of the bottom of Lake Michigan is pretty flat. It's either sand or mud, with no real features," Willink said. "But every once in a while, there are natural reefs out there, and these can be in shallow water, in deeper water, they can be from a variety of sources as well." Willink, the biologist who now works with the Illinois Natural History Survey at the University of Illinois, worked for many years at Chicago's Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium. There, he studied one of Chicago's most iconic underwater landmarks. Morgan Shoal, located just off the coast of Promontory Point by 53rd Street, is one of a handful of naturally occurring rocky reefs in Lake Michigan. This reef is actually a remnant of Chicago's ancient past, Willink saidabout 425 million years ago, the modern-day Great Lakes region was located south of the equator, submerged in a tropical sea that was home to several coral reefs. Though the region's latitude has shifted, traces like the rocky reefs remain on the bottom of the lake, providing an ideal habitat for fish. Morgan Shoal features a wide variety of "nooks and crannies," Willink said, which provide habitats for a range of animals from large migratory fish to small invertebrates and worms. "In the smaller spaces, that's where we found a lot of the aquatic insects and wormsthings which may not sound super exciting, but that is the bottom of the food chain," Willink said. "This is the key to having a variety of different habitats. When you do that, you create more of a larger variety of living spaces for a larger variety of species. And then ultimately, you end up with a higher biodiversity on the site." While natural reefs often provide more appealing habitats for fish, artificial reefs are also widely used for the same purpose, and have been shown to boost biodiversity. This has been shown at the rubble ridges, too. Both the Illinois Beach State Park and Fort Sheridan reefs showed a significant increase in fish populations and biodiversity when compared against the control site for each reef, according to preliminary data from the Lake Michigan Biological Station research team. The team tracks fish diversity with a number of different measures. During the June dive at Illinois Beach State Park, kayakers carried large aluminum frames, each with an underwater camera mounted in the middle, out to the reefs. Scuba divers carried these frames down to the reefs, where they'll remain for the rest of the summer season. The cameras are programmed to take a picture every five minutes, which helps scientists track the density and mass of the fish living on the reef. "We see at the control sites, biomass is high, but abundance is low, versus at the reef sites, we have much smaller fish," Glandon said. "We think it's because this is showing that the reefs are nursery habitats for these fish." They also take samples of algae living on the underwater boulders that make up the reef, and collect sediments to see what types of invertebrates are living at the site. These invertebrates are the core of the food chain, attracting smaller fish in search of food sources. While fish and invertebrates do sometimes seek shelter around man-made breakwaters, Willink said they're most attracted to natural structures that don't totally stop the flow of sand. "Part of the key is that it isn't a dam to the sand, it doesn't hold the sand there," Willink said. "If there's too much sediment, that would smother all these small places." As the reef monitoring project continues, so does the constant movement of sand. Despite humans' best efforts to counter this, the currents of the lake are ever-changing and ever-powerful, scientists say. As lakefront communities have built containment structures along their waterfronts, this trend has remained the sameeven at established places like Illinois Beach State Park, waves surge above boardwalks, benches sink beneath sand, roadways are left to crumble in the face of encroaching shorelines. "A lot of what we're facing right now in the 21st century is, how do we deal with nature in urban areas? How do we live with nature next to us and allow nature to do its thing, and yet still maintain the infrastructure of a city?" Willink said. "And I think that's sort of an emerging field, trying to figure out how to deal with this sort of struggle between the two. It's not just restricted to Lake Michiganit's everywhere." 2025 Chicago Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The International Court of Justice (ICJ) will issue a highly anticipated advisory opinion overnight to clarify state obligations related to climate change. It will answer two urgent questions: what are the obligations of states under international law to protect the climate and environment from greenhouse gas emissions, and what are the legal consequences for states that have caused significant harm to Earth's atmosphere and environment? ICJ advisory opinions are not legally binding. But coming from the world's highest court, they provide an authoritative opinion on serious issues that can be highly persuasive. This advisory opinion marks the culmination of a campaign that began in 2019 when students and youth organizations in Vanuatuone of the most vulnerable nations to climate-related impactspersuaded their government to seek clarification on what states should be doing to protect them. Led by Vanuatu and co-sponsored by 132 member states, including New Zealand and Australia, the United Nations General Assembly formally requested the advisory opinion in March 2023. More than two years of public consultation and deliberation ensued, leading to this week's announcement. What to expect Looking at the specific questions to be addressed, at least three aspects stand out. First, the sources and areas of international law under scrutiny are not confined to the UN's climate change framework. This invites the ICJ to consider a broad range of lawincluding trans-boundary environmental law, human rights law, international investment law, humanitarian law, trade law and beyondand to draw on both treaty-related obligations and customary international law. Such an encyclopedic examination could produce a complex and integrated opinion on states' obligations to protect the environment and climate system. Second, the opinion will address what obligations exist, not just to those present today, but to future generations. This follows acknowledgment of the so-called "intertemporal characteristics" of climate change in recent climate-related court decisions and the need to respond effectively to both the current climate crisis and its likely ongoing consequences. Third, the opinion won't just address what obligations states have, but also what the consequences should be for nations: "Where they, by their acts and omissions have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment." Addressing consequences as well as obligations should cause states to pay closer attention and make the ICJ's advisory more relevant to domestic climate litigation and policy discussions. 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. Global judicial direction Two recent court findings may offer clues as to the potential scope of the ICJ's findings. Earlier this month, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights published its own advisory opinion on state obligations in response to climate change. Explicitly connecting fundamental human rights with a healthy ecosystem, this opinion affirmed states have an imperative duty to prevent irreversible harm to the climate system. Moreover, the duty to safeguard the common ecosystem must be understood as a fundamental principle of international law to which states must adhere. Meanwhile last week, an Australian federal court dismissed a landmark climate case, determining that the Australian government does not owe a duty of care to Torres Strait Islanders to protect them from the consequences of climate change. The court accepted the claimants face significant loss and damage from climate impacts and that previous Australian government policies on greenhouse gas emissions were not aligned with the best science to limit climate change. But it nevertheless determined that "matters of high or core government policy" are not subject to common law duties of care. Whether the ICJ will complement the Inter-American court's bold approach or opt for a more constrained and conservative response is not certain. But now is the time for clear and ambitious judicial direction with global scope. Implications for New Zealand Aotearoa New Zealand aspires to climate leadership through its Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019. This sets 2050 targets of reducing emissions of long-lived greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide) to net zero, and biogenic methane by 2547%. However, actions to date are likely insufficient to meet this target. Transport emissions continue to rise and agricultureresponsible for nearly half of the country's emissionsis lightly regulated. Although the government plans to double renewable energy by 2050, it is also in the process of lifting a 2018 ban on offshore gas exploration and has pledged $200 million to co-invest in the development of new fields. Critics also point out the government has made little progress towards its promise to install 10,000 EV charging stations by 2030 while axing a clean-investment fund. Although a final decision is yet to be made, the government is also considering to lower the target for cuts to methane emissions from livestock, against advice from the Climate Change Commission. With the next global climate summit coming up in November, the ICJ opinion may offer timely encouragement for states to reconsider their emissions targets and the ambition of climate policies. Most countries have yet to submit their latest emissions reduction pledges (known as nationally determined contributions) under the Paris Agreement. New Zealand has made its pledge, but it has been described as "underwhelming". This may present a chance to adjust ambition upwards. If the ICJ affirms that states have binding obligations to prevent climate harm, including trans-boundary impacts, New Zealand's climate change policies and progress to date could face increased legal scrutiny. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The case, Lighthiser v. Trump, at a Montana federal court is among the most high-profile in a new wave of US climate litigation. Is "drill, baby, drill" compatible with "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"? That's the question a federal judge in Montana will weigh this September, as a group of young Americans sues the Trump administrationarguing its aggressive fossil fuel agenda is not only accelerating climate change but violating their constitutional rights. Courts worldwide are emerging as tools for driving climate action against political inertia, with the International Court of Justice set to deliver a landmark ruling Wednesday. "It's very intimidating to think about my future," lead plaintiff Eva Lighthiser told AFP during a recent protest outside Congress, where she and other youth plaintiffs were joined by Democratic lawmakers. "The climate is very unreliable, it's destabilized, and it's going to get worseand that is a lot to reconcile with as somebody who's just entering adulthood," said the 19-year-old from Livingston, Montana. Their case, Lighthiser v. Trump, is among the most high-profile in a new wave of US climate litigation. It hinges on the Fifth Amendment's Due Process Clause, which prohibits the government from depriving people of fundamental rights without due process of law. Twenty-two young plaintiffsincluding several minorsare represented by the nonprofit Our Children's Trust. They are aiming to build on two recent state-level wins. In 2023, a Montana judge sided with youth plaintiffs who argued the state's failure to consider climate impacts when issuing oil and gas permits violated their right to a clean environment. A year later in Hawaii, young activists reached a settlement to accelerate decarbonization of the transport sector. Wildfires, floods, anxiety Now, they're targeting President Donald Trump's second-term executive orders, which declared a "National Energy Emergency." Trump directed agencies to "unleash" fossil fuel production while stalling clean energy projects. The suit also alleges the administration unlawfully suppressed public access to federal climate science. Mat Dos Santos, general counsel for Our Children's Trust, told AFP the conservative-dominated Supreme Court has shown willingness to hear "right to life" cases. "We're trying to make sure that the right to life really extends to living children," they said, "and that it means you have the right to enjoy your planetary existence." Eva Lighthiser, 19, of Montana, the lead plaintiff in Lighthiser v. Trump, said it was 'intimidating' thinking of her future due to the climate crisis. In an unusual move, 19 state attorneys general led by Montana have filed to intervene on behalf of the Trump administrationa sign of how seriously the case is being taken, said Dos Santos. "Growing up in rural Montana, there's a lot of emphasis on our natural surroundings," said Lighthiser. Smoke-choked skies, relentless floods, and her family's climate-forced relocation have shaped her short life. She plans to study environmental science and says she struggles with anxiety and depressioncommon among the plaintiffs AFP interviewed. Joseph Lee, a 19-year-old student at UC San Diego, said the threat of climate disaster has made him question whether he should start a family. Raised near an oil refinery in California, he suffered severe asthma as a child. His family briefly moved to North Carolina to escape the pollution, only to face worsening flash floods. Patrick Parenteau, an emeritus environmental law professor at Vermont Law School, said the case draws on the same constitutional logic as rulings on interracial marriage, desegregation, anduntil recentlyabortion rights. But while he supports it in principle, he doubts it will succeed. 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. Long shot Judge Dana Christensen, who will hear the case September 1617, has issued environmentally friendly rulings before. But even if he sides with the plaintiffs, the case is likely to be appealed all the way to the Supreme Court. "I think the plaintiffs understand that's an uphill battle, certainly with the Supreme Court we have," Parenteau said. "But the point is, they need to try." Other scholars are less sympathetic. Jonathan Adler, a law professor at William & Mary, dismisses such efforts as more geared toward public opinion than legal victory. Lighthiser v. Trump is "based on a very expansive and unmoored theory of what the power of federal courts is," Adler told AFP, calling it ungrounded in legal doctrine. He said more viable strategies include suing agencies over specific regulations or filing tort claims against pollutersnot sweeping constitutional challenges. "Climate change is a serious problem, and we should be doing more about it," Adler said. "But the sorts of legal strategies in court that are most viable aren't the sorts of things that are tailored for attention." 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: Graphical abstract. Credit: Sustainability (2025). DOI: 10.3390/su17125263 Researchers at the University of South Australia are calling for a major shift in how cities manage tree root intrusions into household sewer systems that cost millions of dollars in repair bills each year. A study by UniSA's Sustainable Infrastructure and Resource Management (SIRM) team reveals that current maintenance strategies are falling short, resulting in repeated pipe blockages, environmental contamination, and mounting damage bills. Instead, the engineering researchers propose a smarter, preventative approach using predictive analytics to identify high-risk areas before damage occurs. In a paper titled "Review of Root Intrusions by Street Trees and Utilising Predictive Analytics to Improve Water Utility Maintenance Strategies" published in Sustainability, the UniSA team reviewed global literature and maintenance practices, concluding that removing tree roots using mechanical and chemical measures is not the best solution. Roots can grow back, and the damage is costly to fix. In Adelaide alone, SA Water reported more than 30,000 cases of tree root intrusion in 2020, accounting for nearly 60% of all sewer failures. Each year, the utility spends approximately $5 million on repair works and maintenance caused by blocked sewer pipes. Tree root intrusions are a global headache, costing countries millions of dollars each year. Worldwide, remediation options include mechanical and chemical techniques to clear pipe systems and control root growth, as well as proactive approaches such as planting trees well clear of pipes. But the traditional responses are only temporary fixes, according to UniSA Water Science and Engineering Professor Chris Chow, a senior author on the paper. "Tree roots are the most common cause of pipe failures in many cities around the world," Prof Chow says. "The challenge is that cutting roots or applying chemicals are not permanent solutions. The chemicals can contaminate the soil, and the roots often grow back more aggressively." Instead, his team is advocating for a predictive approach, analyzing key risk factorssuch as pipe age, material, diameter, soil type, tree species and climate conditionsso that water utilities can model where tree root problems are most likely to occur. "It's essentially an early warning system," says lead author Oliver Yang, a Master of Research graduate at UniSA. "We can map out high-risk zones and guide smarter planting choices, better pipe materials and targeted maintenance," Yang says. While predictive models already exist for pipe failures based on material or age, few incorporate environmental or vegetation factors. This gap is significant, the researchers say, given the complex interactions between roots, soil, moisture and infrastructure. 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. Fast-growing species such as eucalyptus, poplars, willows, jacarandas and desert ash are particularly aggressive, with root systems that can spread many meters in search of waterespecially in dry or compacted soils. Trees such as hackberry, varnish or lacquer species, brush box, willow myrtle and kurrajong trees are less intrusive and better choices for street planting. "Globally, cities are spending millions each year fixing the same problems over and over," says Yang. "With the right data and modeling, we can address this, saving money, protecting infrastructure and still enjoying the benefits of urban greenery." The researchers are calling for more region-specific studies and the development of locally-calibrated predictive tools that incorporate tree, pipe, soil and environmental factors. More information: Chizhengping Yang et al, Review of Root Intrusions by Street Trees and Utilising Predictive Analytics to Improve Water Utility Maintenance Strategies, Sustainability (2025). DOI: 10.3390/su17125263 NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AustralianSuper, Australia's largest superannuation fund, has expanded its U.S. Private Equity team, with the appointment of Eneasz Kadziela as a Senior Portfolio Manager based in New York. Mr. Kadziela, who was previously Deputy CIO and Head of Private Equity at New York City Retirement Systems, will focus on deepening AustralianSuper's relationships with existing investment partners, while identifying additional, best-in-class partners. These efforts will ensure that AustralianSuper has access to the most compelling private capital investment opportunities and platforms, to benefit its over 3.5 million members. Mr. Kadziela will report to Aaron Witte, Senior Portfolio Manager, Private Equity. Around half of AustralianSuper's over US$230 billion in member assets are invested globally, including more than US$75 billion in North America. Terry Charalambous, Global Head of Private Equity, said, "We are excited to welcome Eneasz to our growing New York team as we continue to expand our Private Equity portfolio. Eneasz brings vast knowledge of the U.S. private equity market, and important long-standing relationships with investment professionals at leading platforms. This highly strategic appointment will deepen our network across the North American market, ensuring we continue to have access to the best investment opportunities for members." Mr. Kadziela said, "I am thrilled to be joining AustralianSuper at such an important time in the Fund's global growth story. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues to both cultivate and establish new relationships to deliver excellent returns for members." Notes to Editors Bio Eneasz Kadziela Senior Portfolio Manager. Prior to joining AustralianSuper, Mr. Kadziela was Deputy Chief Investment Officer and Head of Private Equity at New York City Retirement Systems ("NYCRS"), where he actively managed GP relationships to enhance portfolio quality, significantly scaled co-investment activity, expanded the direct Emerging Manager program, and led a US$5 billion private equity secondary sale. Before NYCRS, Mr. Kadziela was Director of Research and Fund Relations at the Small Business Investor Alliance ("SBIA"), a trade association representing private equity funds and institutional investors. Earlier in his career he held roles in equity research and wealth management. Mr. Kadziela holds a BA in Economics from Rutgers University, with minors in History and Music. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA). Media Enquiries: Kekst CNC Daniel Yunger / James Hartwell [email protected] About AustralianSuper AustralianSuper manages more than US$230 billion (A$367 billion) in members' retirement savings on behalf of more than 3.5 million members from more than 476,000 businesses (as at 31 March 2025). The Fund is an active investor across global financial markets, real assets, private credit and private equity, with the aim of delivering sustainable, long-term performance for its members. AustralianSuper is the 16th largest pension fund in the world by total assets, and the fastest-growing among the global top 20 (Thinking Ahead Institute, Global Top 300 Pension Funds, based on 5-year CAGR 2019-2024). For more information, visit: www.australiansuper.com AustralianSuper Pty Ltd (ABN 94 006 457 987, AFS Licence No. 233788), the Trustee of AustralianSuper (ABN 65 714 394 898). References to "AustralianSuper" or "the Fund" in this document are taken to mean AustralianSuper Pty Ltd, the AustralianSuper superannuation fund, AustralianSuper (UK) Ltd (UK company number 09949713, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Reference No 741471), AustralianSuper (US) LLC (a Delaware Limited Liability Company, file number 7398158), AustralianSuper Research Pty Ltd (ABN 82 105 638 319, a Beijing Representative Office) and any/or other related bodies corporate of AustralianSuper Pty Ltd. Information included in this document is of a general nature only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the details contained herein are correct and up-to-date, this information does not constitute legal or other professional advice. We do not accept any responsibility, legal or otherwise, for any error or omission. SOURCE AustralianSuper 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 For a mouse, survival often boils down to one urgent question: Flee or freeze? But the best strategy to avoid being snatched and eaten depends on which mouse you are asking. According to a new study by Harvard biologists, two closely-related species of deer mice have evolved very different responses to aerial predators, thanks to tweaks in brain circuitry. One species that dwells in densely-vegetated areas instinctively darts for cover, while a cousin living in open areas goes still to avoid being spotted. "In this case, we were able to pinpoint where evolution acted to make species from different environments have different behaviors to the same stimulus," said Felix Baier, who conducted the study in Hopi Hoekstra's lab in the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology as a Ph.D. student in the Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Now a postdoctoral fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Baier added, "The paper shows that evolution can act anywhere, including in more central brain regions." The findings, published in the journal Nature, provide new insights about a group of animals that have become iconic examples of evolutionary adaptation. Deer mice of the genus Peromyscus include more than 50 species occupying virtually every habitat from desert to mountains, and they are the most abundant mammals in North America. They are prime examples of adaptive radiationthe process by which an evolutionary lineage rapidly diversifies into multiple species, each occupying specialized ecological niches. Because they have been intensely studied in the wild and in the lab, deer mice are sometimes called the fruit flies of mammal biology. In the rodent family tree, deer mice separated from the ancestors of house mice and rats about 25 million years ago. By some accounts, Mickey Mouse was inspired by the Peromyscus field mice that scurried through the animation studio of Walt Disney. The lab of evolutionary biologist Hoekstra (who serves as the Edgerley Family Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences) has spent decades studying how different species of deer mice have adapted their biology and behavior. In previous studies, the Hoekstra lab showed how species evolved specializations such as fur colors, mating habits, and burrowing behaviors. In this new study, the team sought to understand why two sister species respond very differently to predators. Because deer mice are frequently hunted by hawks and owls, their escape behaviors are shaped by intense natural selection. Heokstra quipped, "It's life or death." The species Peromyscus maniculatuswhich lives in densely-vegetated prairies and is the most widespread of all deer miceis quick to dash for cover after sensing the approach of a bird of prey. In contrast, the oldfield mouse Peromyscus polionotuswhich lives in open areas such as sand dunes or bare farm fieldstends to freeze in place. To better understand these differences, the investigators placed the deer mice in an enclosure furnished with a small shelter. They mounted a computer screen atop the cage and showed images of small dark dots floating on a light screen (which simulated birds soaring high overhead) and dots that suddenly loomed larger (which mimicked predatory birds diving in for the kill). When they sensed the looming threat of an approaching bird, the prairie deer mice scrambled for shelter but the open field mice froze in place. 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 investigators sought to uncover the neural basis for these differences. They played a frightening sound and triggered similar reactions, revealing that the difference was not just vision or other peripheral senses, but some kind of central processing in the brain. Next they conducted immunohistochemical and electrophysiological studies of the mice's brains and located the key junctiona portion of the brain called the dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG). Activation of this region was about 1.5 times higher in the species that escaped. With a technique known as optogenetics, the scientists introduced proteins that act as light-sensitive ion channels into the dPAG of both species and then stimulated the neurons with lasers. This stimulation triggered the same responses they had witnessed in the earlier experimentseven when no images were shown. In another experiment, they suppressed activity in the same region and induced one species to behave just like the other. The study was conducted in collaboration with colleagues at KU Leuven, a research university in Belgium. Previous studies by the Hoekstra lab have documented other differences between the same two species, such as mating (P. polionotus is monogamous while P. maniculatus is promiscuous) and burrowing (P. polionotus makes long complex tunnels while P. maniculatus makes short, simple ones). The new study adds yet another example of how evolution has tailored each species to its unique environment since the two lineages separated between 1 million and 2 million years ago. The authors theorize that the different escape responses evolved to maximize chances of survival in their respective habitats. Deer mice that live in vegetated areas can usually find cover nearby so they flee, but those that live on open ground have fewer places to hide and only attract attention by running. "You rely on your camouflage," explained Baier. "There's a fair chance that when you freeze, you get overlooked." But no species would survive if it never escaped. The scientists found that the open-field mice eventually could be induced to flee, but they required twice the amount of threat. Both species share the same basic neural machinery, but evolution apparently has adjusted the knobs to finely tune each species for its ecology. Hoekstra noted that those findings echoed a common theme in evolutionary biology. "Natural selection often tweaks existing neural circuits rather than constructing entirely new pathways," she said. More information: Hopi Hoekstra, The neural basis of species-specific defensive behaviour in Peromyscus mice, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09241-2. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09241-2 Journal information: Nature 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: Model of Mirasaura grauvogeli. Credit: Tobias Wilhelm Body coverings such as hair and feathers have played a central role in evolution. They enabled warm-bloodedness by insulating the body, and were used for courtship, display, deterrence of enemies and, in the case of feathers, flight. Their structure is characterized by longer and more complex skin outgrowths that differ significantly from the simple and flat scales of reptiles. Complex skin outgrowths have previously only been observed in mammals in the form of hair and in birds and their closest fossil relatives, dinosaurs and pterosaurs, in the form of feathers. An international team led by paleontologists Dr. Stephan Spiekman and Prof Dr. Rainer Schoch from the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, Germany, describes a previously unknown tree-dwelling reptile from the early Middle Triassic in a study published in the journal Nature. The 247-million-year-old reptile "Mirasaura grauvogeli," whose name means "Grauvogel's Wonder Reptile," had a dorsal crest with previously unknown, structurally complex appendages growing from its skin with some similarities to feathers. The crest was probably used for display to other members of the same species. The holotype of Mirasaura (State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, Germany) showing the bird-like skull and the crest along the back. Credit: Stephan Spiekmann A fossil from the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, Germany, preserving the skeleton of Mirasaura. Credit: Stephan Spiekmann The find shows that complex skin structures are not only found in birds and their closest relatives but may predate modern reptiles. This important discovery forces us to reconsider our understanding of reptile evolution. Unique skin structures in early reptiles The crest of the rather small Mirasaura consists of individual, densely overlapping appendages that each possess a feather-like contour with a narrow central ridge. While real feathers consist of many delicate branched structures called barbs, there is no evidence of such branching in the appendages of Mirasaura. Because of this, the team believes that the structure of the complex, unique skin appendages of Mirasaura evolved largely independently of those of birds. "The fact that we have discovered such complex skin appendages in such an ancient group of reptiles sheds a new light on their evolution. Mirasaura is even older than the dinosaurs and not closely related to them," says Dr. Stephan Spiekman, lead author of the paper and scientist at the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart. "Developmental biology studies show that the genetic basis for the growth of complex skin appendages such as feathers probably originated in the Carboniferous period, more than 300 million years ago. Mirasaura provides the first direct evidence that such structures actually did form early on in reptile evolution, in groups not closely related to birds and extinct dinosaurs." Dinosaurs and the origin of feathers The study marks a turning point in a nearly 30-year trend in paleontological research that began with the discovery of feathered dinosaurs in China in the late 1990s. Before this time, it was thought that reptiles, including dinosaurs that gave rise to birds, were covered with scales and that only true birds had feathers. As a result, dinosaurs were often depicted as sluggish, scaly animals. This image changed when research started to show that many dinosaurs were much more bird-like than previously thought. The discovery of feathered, non-avian dinosaurs in China caused a wave of new studies that began to blur the lines between scaly, "cold-blooded" reptiles on the one hand and feathered, "warm-blooded" birds on the other. Now, it is clear that the story is even more complex. "Mirasaura grauvogeli shows us how surprising evolution can be and what potential it holds. It repeatedly produces similar structures that are completely independent of each other but also structures that are so different that they can be distinguished. Mirasaura developed an alternative to feathers very early in Earth's history, long before the dinosaurs, which we did not expect and which will stimulate discussion and research," says Prof. Dr. Rainer Schoch, reptile expert and head of the Paleontology Department at the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart. Reconstruction and illustration of Mirasaura in its natural forested environment, hunting insects. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto 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. Bizarre tree-climbers with bird-like skulls and claws The latest technologies have been used to study Mirasaura, including synchrotron imaging carried out at the European Synchrotron (ESRF) to reconstruct the skull. This revealed a bird-like shape with a narrow, mostly toothless snout, large forward-facing eye sockets and a large, domed skull. The snout was probably used to extract insects from narrow tree holes. The drepanosauromorphs, to which Mirasaura belongs, are known to paleontologists as extremely bizarre creatures of the Triassic period. They had grasping forelimbs, sometimes with a huge claw resembling that of a Velociraptor. They had long, barrel-shaped bodies, a long, prehensile tail, and hands that allowed them to grab onto branches like monkeys. Some species even had a hook-shaped claw at the tip of their tail for hanging from branches. "Drepanosaurs have many ecological adaptations and have only been known to science for a few decades. Mirasaura lived in trees in one of the first forests that emerged after the great mass extinction at the Permian-Triassic boundary. The dorsal crest with a novel skin structure in Mirasaura adds to the range of remarkable adaptations that make this group of reptiles so unique," says paleontologist Prof Dr. Hans Sues from the National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC, U.S. who participated in the new research. A fossil from the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, Germany, fossil preserving a large crest of Mirasaura.. Credit: Stephan Spiekmann The reconstruction of the skeleton of Mirasaura.. Credit: Stephan Spiekmann Melanosomes and skin structures A thin, brown film was partially preserved on the crest of Mirasaura. Analyses confirmed the presence of melanosomes, tiny organelles that contain melanin pigments. They are found in most animals, including humans. The researchers compared the shape of the Mirasaura melanosomes with those found in the skin of living reptiles, hair and feathers. "We know that in modern animals, melanosomes have specific morphologies linked to the tissue where they are found," says Dr. Valentina Rossi, a co-author of the study from University College Cork, Ireland, and an expert on fossil melanosome research. "The melanosomes found in Mirasaura soft tissues are more similar in shape to those found in extant and fossil feathers than melanosomes found in mammalian hair and reptilian skin." SEM image of the melanosomes and a schematic drawing of the Mirasaura skin outgrowths. Credit: Stephan Spiekman/ Valentina Rossi Grauvogel's 'wonder reptile' Fossil collector Louis Grauvogel began excavating fossils from the Middle Triassic period in Alsace in the 1930s. Among his finds were fossils of Mirasaura. Over the years, he amassed an extensive collection, which remained in the Grauvogel family for many years. In 2019, the collection was transferred to the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, where Mirasaura was discovered during further preparation. The fossils are in the paleontological collection of the State Museum of Natural History, Stuttgart. More information: Stephan Spiekman, Triassic diapsid shows early diversification of skin appendages in reptiles, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09167-9. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09167-9 Richard O. Prum, Unusual fossil skin appendage is not a feather, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/d41586-025-01711-x , www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-01711-x Journal information: Nature This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: From noise to date: artist's impression of the Geometric Algebra Flow Matching (GAFL). Credit: HITS The natural protein universe is vast, and yet, going beyond and designing new proteins not observed in nature can yield new functions and can solve problems in medicine or materials science. The past few years have marked the golden age of de novo protein design: machine learning methods have led to an unprecedented level of modeling accuracy. This progress enables researchers to design protein structures with specific functional properties never observed before. This is of particular interest for biotechnological applications, therapeutics development and sustainability problems, such as plastic degradation. One of the key features of functional proteinslarge biomolecules with complex structuresis their inherent structural flexibility: They wiggle, jiggle and change shape. But current designs largely lack this important feature. For a team of researchers from the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS) and the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (MPIP) this was the starting point to deliberate about whether one could design proteins with a custom flexibility from scratch. They presented the results of their work at the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML) in Vancouver, Canada. Matching the flow: A model for de novo proteins "We wanted to build a model that learns how to generate proteins such that their structures are flexible to a given extent at a given position," says first author Vsevolod Viliuga (MPIP). To that end, the team introduced a framework for generating flexible protein structures. This framework is based both on a neural network trained to predict the flexibilities of protein backbones and a generative model for protein structure. "Natural proteins are so excellent in fulfilling their tasks because they are flexible wherever needed," says co-author Leif Seute (HITS). "We can now design novel proteins that mimic this key property." HITS group leader Jan Stuhmer adds, "It is an extension of the Geometric Algebra Flow Matching model, in short: GAFL, that we developed last year." GAFL is three times faster than comparable models and not only achieves high designability, but also resembles the natural proteins better in various aspects. In the end, the team showed that the model can generate proteins with the desired flexibility patterns, even for patterns that are uncommon in natural proteins. Frauke Grater (MPIP), one of the team leaders, resumes: "This work is a step forward to design new proteins for applications where flexibility is required, such as enzyme catalysts." More information: Flexibility-conditioned protein structure design with flow matching: icml.cc/virtual/2025/poster/46289 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: Card-sorting task, recreated from description by Gay and Cole (30). Participants were given four cards and asked them to sort along one dimension, then another then another. Credit: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2407955122 Executive functiontop-down processes by which the human mind controls behavior, regulating thoughts and actionshave long been studied using a standard set of tools, with these assessments being included in national and international child development norms. A new study of children in schooled and unschooled environments, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, raises questions about some of the assumptions underlying the way psychologists and scholars of cognitive science think about these processes. Instead of defining an innate, basic feature of human cognition, the executive functions supposedly captured in the assessments are likelier to depend on the influence of formal schooling. The study, "The cultural construction of 'executive function,'" tested children in the Kunene region of Africa, which spans the countries of Namibia and Angola, as well as children in the U.K. and Bolivia. Children in rural areas of Kunene who received limited or no formal schooling differed profoundly in so-called executive function testing from their schooled peers, or a "typical" Western schooled sample. "Almost all developmental research is done on children who live in a schooled world," explained Joseph Henrich, Ruth Moore Professor of Evolutionary Biology, whose Culture, Cognition, and Culture lab in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology oversaw the study. Referring to Kunene, he said, "We went to a place where we have a kind of natural experiment, where we have some communities with no schools and some with schools. That allows us to compare the cognitive development of the kids. And what we see is we only get the usual executive function development in the places with schools rather than in the places without. That suggests that it's really about schooling. "What has been taken as a very generalized thing called 'executive function' is actually really specific to a set of skills you need to navigate school and schooled worlds." Testing executive function, continued Henrich, often involves such exercises as memorizing lists of unconnected words. But children with little or no formal schooling might not recognize these words because such lists do not occur in their environment. However, the researchers argued, the innate cognitive functions of children who were not formally schooled were not impairedthey were simply applied differently. "In the populations we work in, people are super good at remembering cows," he said. "They can look at the herd, they can tell you how many cows there are, they can name the cows. If you showed them the faces of cows, they can tell you who the owner is. And I bet if I did this with kids around here in Boston, they would be terrible at differentiating cows." It's not that executive function doesn't exist, explained the researchers. Instead, we need to recognize that what we have been measuring is not that overall control. "We need to rethink how we approach human psychology," said Henrich, and a lot of what is regarded as regular cognitive development is actually a product of a formal education. Ivan Kroupin, the paper's lead author and a former postdoc in Henrich's lab, elaborated, "The term 'executive function' refers to a set of capacities and dispositions that are, in large part, culture-specific." 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. Kroupin, who is currently at the London School of Economics and co-directed the field studies with Helen Elizabeth Davis of Arizona State University, said, "Our study suggests that the capacities these tasks require are in part universal, but also in part culture-specific, potentially tied to formal schooling or other institutions and experiences in urbanized societies." The findings suggest a re-examination of terms such as "executive functions" and a more accurate understanding of what these are. "We can use the term 'executive functions' to refer to underlying universal capacities," said Kroupin. However, "If that is the case then we need a different term for the suite of universal and culture-specific capacities which typical EF tasks are measuring." This story is published courtesy of the Harvard Gazette, Harvard University's official newspaper. For additional university news, visit Harvard.edu. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Hayabusa2 sample return capsule (SRC) reentry trajectory. Credit: Seismological Research Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1785/0220250032 The seismic signature of a fireball meteoroid event can be used to tell whether the fireball fragmented or remained intact as it fell through the atmosphere, according to new research published in Seismological Research Letters. The 2020 return of the sample capsule from the asteroid-exploring Hayabusa2 mission to southern Australia offered a unique opportunity to test this idea, write Iona Clemente of Curtin University and colleagues in the journal. Clemente and colleagues compared seismic signals associated with the Hayabusa2 capsule's return with signals collected from two natural meteoroids and the re-entry of the upper stage of a 2.5-ton Russian Soyuz 2.1b rocket that all plummeted to Earth over Australia. The researchers concluded that objects that remained intact during their fallHayabusa2, the Soyuz re-entry and one of the natural meteoroidshad a distinct seismic signature compared to a large natural meteoroid over North Queensland that likely fragmented with a final dramatic airburst or disintegration. Visual evidence of fireball fragmentation is rare, making it important to have another way to identify these events, said Clemente. "Understanding fragmentation helps us model how different types of space objects might behave during atmospheric entry, informing planetary defense strategies." For instance, shock waves produced solely by the high-speed trajectory of the object through the atmosphere will radiate energy mostly in one direction, compared to shock waves produced by fragmentation, which will radiate energy in all directions, she explained. Fragmentation data helps researchers refine their estimates of where meteoroids fall and how large a debris field they create. Fragmentation can also provide valuable information on the composition of a meteoroid's parent body, as chondritic or stony meteoroids are usually weaker and more prone to fragmentation compared to iron-rich meteoroids. "This distinction helps build statistics on the types of objects entering Earth's atmosphere and improves our understanding of the relative proportions of chondritic versus iron-type meteoroids," Clemente noted. Shock waves produced by fireball events are captured as seismic or acoustic waves on the ground. In the study, the researchers used seismic data captured by both permanent seismic networks in Australia and two temporary high-density seismic networks that operated from 2018 to 2022 and 2020 to 2022. Knowing exactly when and where the Hayabusa2 sample capsule was to return to Earth, the researchers could zero in on traces in the seismic record to characterize and verify the capsule's unique re-entry signature. They confirmed that the shock wave produced by the capsule came from its ballistic trajectory, or its high-speed trajectory through the atmosphere. "The strong observed signal for the Hayabusa2 [capsule] is largely due to the dense seismic network that happened to be positioned directly beneath the re-entry trajectory," Clemente explained. "This level of station coverage is rare and enabled us to capture the ballistic shock wave signature with good clarity and a high signal-to-noise ratio." 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 strong similarity in signals between the Hayabusa2 capsule and a 2021 fireball that fell over Lake Torrens, South Australia "was also particularly interesting," she added. "The strong match we get between the two events likely indicated that this object didn't fragment. This is supported by the data we have from the Desert Fireball Network, which uses the brightness of the objectlight curvesto identify fragmentation." Curtin University's Desert Fireball Network is an Australian network of cameras that tracks meteoroids entering the atmosphere. The researchers note that variations in atmospheric temperature, pressure, wind strength and other factors can impact how a shock wave travels and is recorded on the ground. Similarly, local geological conditions such as soil type and topography can also impact how a shock wave is detected by seismic sensors. "While our current approach does not explicitly model these effects, they are important factors that we aim to explore further in future work to improve the accuracy and confidence of our interpretations," said Clemente. "This study represents an important first step, and we see tremendous potential for developing this into an operational tool for fireball characterization," she noted. "We also plan to apply our method to a larger set of fireball events, which will help us test its general applicability, and potentially reveal new patterns or behaviors." The study is one of several research papers included in SRL's upcoming Special Focus section on the OSIRIS-REx Re-entry, a sample capsule from a mission to the near-Earth asteroid Bennu that returned to Earth in 2023. Along with Hayabusa2 and OSIRIS-REx, there have been only two other sample return capsule re-entries monitored using seismic sensors. More information: Iona Clemente et al, Exploring Seismic Signal Detection and Source Identification of Atmospheric Entries: The Hayabusa2 Sample Return Capsule as a Benchmark, Seismological Research Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1785/0220250032 Journal information: Seismological Research Letters 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: Columns of foliated rhyolite at Craig Rhos-y-Felin, north Pembrokeshire. Credit: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105303 Aberystwyth University-led research has shared new findings clarifying that the enigmatic "Newall boulder" from Stonehenge was transported by Neolithic people, not by glacial transport, from Craig Rhos-y-Felin in Wales. Stonehenge's enduring mystery extends beyond the iconic standing stones that draw visitors from around the globe. Less celebrated, yet central to archaeological debate, are the smaller, blue-hued megaliths, known as bluestones, sourced from distant outcrops in Wales, over 200 kilometers away. Many archaeologists have attributed their arrival on Salisbury Plain to deliberate human transport. Others have proposed that glacial ice carried them during a prehistoric advance. Limited physical evidence for either hypothesis has driven continued attention to the so-called "Newall boulder." Most bluestone materials at Stonehenge are either standing or buried monoliths. Newall boulder is a discrete, hand-sized fragment with a known excavation history, a thorough sampling record, and a plausible argument for being a previously undisturbed glacial deposit, perhaps missed by the monolith builders. Both sides of the debate have treated Newall as a test case for resolving whether glacial or human transport brought the stones to Salisbury Plain. In the study, "The enigmatic 'Newall boulder' excavated at Stonehenge in 1924: New data and correcting the record," published in Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, researchers conducted new mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical analyses to determine the stone's origin and transport history. A plan of part of the Stonehenge monument showing the disposition of various stones as well as the location of excavation sites. Credit: Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105303 Measuring 22 15 10 cm, the Newall boulder was recovered during Lt-Col Hawley's 1924 excavation. It was removed from the site by R.S. Newall, who kept 18 stones. The boulder was sampled by the Institute of Geological Sciences in the 1970s and by the Open University in the 1980s, with thin sections archived in the British Geological Survey and Amgueddfa Cymru, Museum Wales. Petrographic evidence revealed that the boulder matches Rhyolite Group C from Craig Rhos-y-Felin some 200 kilometers away. Geochemical analysis reinforced these correlations. Morphological comparisons showed the Newall boulder's bullet-shaped profile matches the tops of in situ rhyolite pillars at Craig Rhos-y-Felin and mirrors the size and shape of Stonehenge's buried stump 32d. No glacial striations were observed. Surface abrasion was attributed to weathering and post-breakage burial, not glacial transport. Field investigations across Salisbury Plain have found no glacial deposits, no erratics (any rock or boulder that has been deposited by a glacier), and no other signs of glacial movement, either at surface or within river gravels. No glacial erratics of any kind have been found on Salisbury Plain, including within 4 km of the monument where all of the bluestones are found. Angular fragments near the monument show edge damage consistent with deliberate shaping, not subglacial erosion. Researchers conclude that the Newall boulder is a piece of Craig Rhos-y-Felin rhyolite, most likely broken from a monolith such as Stone 32d. All mineralogical, geochemical, and field data support human transport to Stonehenge by Neolithic people with no evidence to support glacial movement of the stone. In discrediting the glacial hypothesis for the presence of the Newall boulder, the research bolsters the case for all of the bluestones on the plain to be the result of ancient human efforts. Written for you by our author Justin Jackson, edited by Sadie Harley, and fact-checked and reviewed by Andrew Zininthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you. More information: Richard E. Bevins et al, The enigmatic 'Newall boulder' excavated at Stonehenge in 1924: New data and correcting the record, Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105303 Journal information: Journal of Archaeological Science 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: The new technique combines Helfrich theory of membrane bending and molecular dynamic simulations, allowing direct evaluation of the bending rigidity of graphene nanosheets without requiring experimental tests. Credit: Institute of Science Tokyo The Helfrich theory of membrane bending, supported by molecular dynamics simulations, is a promising approach for evaluating mechanical properties of graphene nanosheets, report researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo. This hybrid approach allows direct evaluation of bending rigidities of graphene nanosheets, even with lattice defects, without requiring experimental tests, offering valuable insights for designing novel two-dimensional materials with tailored mechanical properties. Graphene nanosheets (GS) are two-dimensional (2D) nano-carbon materials known for their remarkable flexibility, exceptional mechanical strength, and their ability to adopt different shapes. In particular, by introducing 5- or 7-membered rings into hexagon-shaped GSs, conical or horse-saddle-like shapes can be formed. Imagine a hexagonal piece of paper, which is divided into six equilateral triangles. Removing one triangle creates a 5-membered ring, which, when bent, forms a cone, while adding a triangle forms a 7-membered ring, producing a saddle-like shape. These ring structures are rotational-type lattice defects known as disclinations. Disclinations have been utilized to develop various GS-based materials. For example, wave-shaped GSs called egg-tray graphene, which have periodic 5- or 7-membered rings, are known for their impact resistance. GSs with 7-membered rings show promise for use as nanosprings. These lattice defects have a significant effect on the local curvature and mechanical properties of GSs, especially their bending rigidity. While the bending rigidity of flat GSs has been well studied, that of GSs with disclinations remains poorly understood due to the variability introduced by deformations that make precise measurements difficult. To address this gap, a research team led by Associate Professor Xiao-Wen Lei from the School of Materials and Chemical Technology at Institute of Science Tokyo (Science Tokyo), Japan, developed a new approach. "We have developed a new hybrid approach, combining molecular dynamics simulations with Helfrich theory of membrane bending," explains Lei. "This method allows for direct evaluation of bending rigidity of GSs with lattice defects directly from atomic configurations without requiring experimental tests." The team included graduate student Yushi Kunihiro and Professor Toshiyuki Fujii from Science Tokyo and Associate Professor Takashi Uneyama from Nagoya University. Their study was published in the journal Nanoscale. The Helfrich theory of membrane bending describes the out-of-plane bending of 2D materials by modeling their curvature using energy considerations. Although originally developed for analyzing lipid bilayers of biological cells, this theory is also applicable to GSs due to geometric and mechanical similarities. However, solving this theory analytically is notoriously difficult. To simplify the analysis, the researchers applied molecular dynamics simulations. Using this approach, the team analyzed four types of analytical models of GSs with disclinations: positive disclination monopoles (5-membered rings), negative disclination monopoles (7-membered rings), and connected and separated disclination dipoles that combine the monopoles. In connected dipoles, the positive and negative disclinations are placed together, while in separated dipoles, they are spaced apart at varying distances from separated dipoles. 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 calculated bending rigidity values were within the reasonable range reported in previous studies, highlighting the validity of the approach. More notably, the results revealed, for the first time, differences in trends between GSs with monopoles and dipoles. Disclination dipoles showed similar bending rigidity once nonlinear effects were excluded. For dipoles, the combination of conical and saddle-shaped surfaces resulted in a local change in shape with a corresponding local change in bending rigidity. Furthermore, as the distance between disclinations increases, bending rigidity converges to a stable value, highlighting the importance of lattice defect density. "Our findings not only offer a foundation for understanding mechanical properties of GSs with lattice defects but also insights for designing new GSs with specific bending rigidities and tailored mechanical properties," notes Lei. Overall, this study will accelerate the development of novel GS-based materials, such as nano-springs and impact-resistant graphene structures, leading to advanced 2D materials. More information: Yushi Kunihiro et al, A new computational approach for evaluating bending rigidity of graphene sheets incorporating disclinations, Nanoscale (2025). DOI: 10.1039/D5NR01102G Journal information: Nanoscale 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: Life cycle and reproduction of Xyleborus monographus .Insects (2024). DOI: 10.3390/insects15090706 Invasive beetles might be boring through the valley oaks in your neighborhood. Mediterranean oak borers (Xyleborus monographus) were first identified in the city of Sacramento last July. They target oaks native to Sacramento, those trees with arching canopies that line the American and Sacramento rivers, and can kill an 80-foot giant in five years. The beetles have spread too far across the Sacramento region to be quarantined: they have reached Citrus Heights, Curtis Park and, most recently in April, Beals Point at Folsom Lake. It leaves arborists, entomologists and city workers no choice but to prioritize removing infested treeswhich can cost at least $4,000and raising awareness. Dan Pskowski, a former city arborist who discovered the infested tree in Citrus Park, noted that a female beetle is the size of a pen nib. "This little tiny beetle is going to take out a huge oak tree, a 300-year-old oak tree." A threat to stressed oaks The insects arrived in California at least eight years ago in Napa County. According to Cal Fire entomologist Curtis Ewing, they likely stowed away from France to California in oak barrels containing wine. Infested oak trees bear telltale signs. Keep an eye out for dead branches, particularly at the top of the treebeetles start high and work their way down to the trunk. The beetles bore holes into the tree and leave dust behind. And inside, fork-like tunnels fan across the wood. The beetles themselves aren't the killers: it's the fungus they introduce that harms the trees. As the beetles chew tunnels through a tree, they release a fungus stored in a pouch above their mouths. The fungus destabilizes the tree and doubles as a food source for the beetles and their growing larvae. The beetles don't fly far. But Ewing notes their life cycle and human behavior are conducive to accidental spreading. The beetles infest a tree by the end of summer and wait patiently in the wood. Soon after, the tree dies. It is felled and cut into firewoodand demand for these logs is high in the fall. "You've got a whole tree that's full of tensif not hundredsof thousands of these beetles," Ewing said. "They're mated. They're all ready to attack the next tree." The beetles hitch a ride across the state and lie low in the winter. When temperatures warm above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, typically in the spring, they finally emerge from the wood in search of new oaks. Kevin Hocker, Sacramento's Urban Forester, likens the beetles to respiratory diseases such as a cold or COVID-19. If you're healthy, you're not likely to die. But immunocompromised individuals, or trees already facing stressors such as drought or storm damage, are vulnerable to invaders. "Trees have natural mechanisms to defend themselves, a natural defense system that functions very much like our immune system," Hocker said. "Most of the trees are not going to die when a single beetle attacks them, or even when 100 beetles attack them. But some will." "Take care of the wood' Managing Mediterranean oak borers is an expensive task. Pskowski estimates that it costs at least $350 to inspect a tree for the beetles, since reaching the top branches requires special equipment. And Ewing has seen tree removal costs fall between $4,000 and $10,000. 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. It's not the first time the city has dealt with insectile threats to its trees. Bark beetles brought Dutch elm disease to Sacramento in the 1990s. Though impossible to eradicate, quarantining infested trees and investing in antifungal injections allowed the city to prevent the disease from spreading uncontrollably. A Sacramento Bee reporter, writing in May 1996, noted that the city paid to remove about 1,000 trees a year following the disease's entry into Sacramento. A lack of funding and a need for further research into the beetles make such efforts difficult to replicate, Ewing said. Cal Fire and the city have set up several pheromone traps at trees known to be infested, hoping to coax the beetles out. They're working with arborists, UC Davis' Agriculture and Natural Resources division and tree-loving volunteers to monitor oaks across the city and raise public awareness. "Funding is always hard to come by, and part of the thing that drives funding is awareness," Hocker said. "As people become more aware of it and more concerned about it, they will start investing in ways to manage it." In the meantime, Hocker notes that Sacramento residents can take action by getting involved with local tree advocacy groups and arborists. If a tree is found to be infested, Ewing recommends felling it and disposing of the wood by cutting it into chips and composting it. The bottom line? Avoid moving firewood around to prevent the beetles from reaching new oaks. "That is the key," Pskowski said. "Take care of the wood because that's what's harboring the pest." Additionally, early prevention can save the city's oak treesand thousands of dollars. "The best ways to prevent the symptoms of a (beetle) infestation are to keep the tree as healthy as possible," Hocker said. "Make sure it has enough water, make sure it's fertilized." 2025 The Sacramento Bee. 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: Imaging principle of LiTA-HM. Credit: Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw5275 Neurovascular coupling (NVC) is the dynamic regulation of cerebral blood flow in response to neural activity. Specifically, when neurons become active, nearby blood vessels dilate to increase blood supply, thereby meeting the heightened energy demands associated with neural activity. NVC is essential for maintaining normal brain function and plays a critical role in non-invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCIs)such as systems for controlling robotic arms or cursors. Unfortunately, conventional technologies have limited detection range or insufficient spatiotemporal resolution for high-precision analyzing the dynamic changes in neurons and vasculature across the whole cortex, thereby hindering research into the potential of NVC. In a study published in Science Advances, a research team led by Prof. Zheng Hairong, Prof. Liu Chengbo, and Prof. Zheng Wei from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences introduces a linear transducer-array-based hybrid microscope (LiTA-HM) that enables simultaneous, dynamic, high-resolution imaging of neuronal activity and microvascular behavior across the entire cortex of awake mice. The researchers first developed a high-speed polygon scanning system for optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy, which significantly increases imaging speed while maintaining system stability. This system, together with optimized optical pathways that provide uniform 6-m resolution across a 6.5-mm range and a flat imaging plane, lays the foundation for high-resolution, rapid multimodal imaging. To expand the imaging field of view, LiTA-HM has an 8-channel transducer array with a 6-mm detection range while maintaining high sensitivity. Importantly, this design allows the polygon scanner to operate in air, eliminating interference from ultrasonic coupling media without compromising its inherent speed or mechanical stability. To enhance the performance of LiTA-HM, the researchers developed a novel image reconstruction algorithm that employs weighted averaging and adaptive stripe filtering. The algorithm effectively suppresses transducer-induced artifacts and significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio. With its combined imaging modalities and technical innovations, LiTA-HM enables high-speed, large-field-of-view visualization of neurovascular activity in awake mice. It captures capillary-scale vascular networks and single-neuron soma details across the entire cortex, achieving 6-m spatial resolution across a 6 mm 5 mm field of view at 1.25 frames per second. This capability allows real-time, full-cortex monitoring of neurovascular dynamics. Using LiTA-HM, the researchers successfully performed awake mouse experiments in models of brain disease and functional imaging, highlighting the technology's potential for advancing brain research and its practical applications. The LiTA-HM system provides a new tool for non-invasive BCI data acquisition. More information: Liangjian Liu et al, Photoacoustic and fluorescence hybrid microscope for cortex-wide imaging of neurovascular dynamics with subcellular resolution, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adw5275 Journal information: Science Advances 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: Marine biologist Teina Rongo passes the research vessel MV Anuanua Moana in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. A 1,000-tonne ship is exploring the far-flung South Pacific for riches buried beneath the waves, spearheading efforts to dredge the tropical waters for industrial deep-sea mining. Fringed by sparkling lagoons and palm-shaded beaches, Pacific nation the Cook Islands has opened its vast ocean territory for mining exploration. Research vessels roam the seas searching for deposits of battery metals, rare earths and critical minerals that litter the deep ocean's abyssal plains. The frontier industry is likened by some to a modern-day gold rush, and decried by others as environmental "madness." AFP visited the sunburst-orange MV Anuanua Moana at the Cook Islands' sleepy port of Avatiu, where it loaded supplies before setting sail for the archipelago's outer reaches. "The resource in our field is probably in the order of about US$4 billion in potential value," said chief executive Hans Smit from Moana Minerals, which converted the former supply ship into a deepwater research vessel. It is fitted with chemistry labs, sonar arrays and sensors used to probe the seabed for coveted metals. For two years it has sailed the Cook Islands, halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, gathering data to convince regulators that deep-sea mining is safe. While exploration is far advanced, no company has started mining on a commercial scale. The Cook Islands' pistine lagoons lure wealthy tourists that prop-up the economy, fridges are stocked with fish plucked from vibrant reefs, and local myths teach children to revere the sea. Big business "I want to be mining before 2030," Smit said from the ship's tower, as whirring cranes loaded wooden crates of heavy gear below. "Absolutely, I think that we can." Large tracts of seabed around the Cook Islands are carpeted in polymetallic nodules, misshapen black globes encrusted with cobalt, nickel, manganese and other coveted metals. Demand has been driven by the rise of electric vehicles, rechargeable batteries and durable alloys used in everything from construction to medicine. The Cook Islands lay claim to one of just four major nodule deposits globally. It is "the world's largest and richest resource of polymetallic nodules within a sovereign territory," according to Australia's University of Queensland. Moana Mineralsa subsidiary of a Texas-based companyowns the rights to explore 20,000 square kilometers (7,500 square miles) within the Cook Islands' exclusive economic zone. "If we put one mining ship on there, and we started producing metals, we will be one of the largest mines around," said Smit. Infographic map showing the Cook Islands' exclusive economic zone, plus areas of exploration for polymetallic nodules reserved for the the Cook Islands Investment Corporation in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. 'Belongs to us' Few countries are as reliant on the ocean as the Cook Islands, a seafaring nation of some 17,000 people scattered across a chain of volcanic isles and coral atolls. Pristine lagoons lure wealthy tourists that prop-up the economy, fridges are stocked with fish plucked from vibrant reefs, and local myths teach children to revere the sea. Many Cook Islanders fear deep-sea mining could taint their precious "moana," or ocean, forever. "I have seen the ship in the harbor," said tour guide Ngametua Mamanu, 55. "Why do we need the mining stuff to destroy the oceans?" Retiree Ana Walker, 74, feared foreign interests had come to plunder her island home. "We think that these people are coming over to make money and to leave the mess with us." Deep-sea mining companies tout the need for critical minerals to make electric vehicles, solar panels and other "green" technologies. Environmentalist Alanna Smith warns about the dangers to the environment created by deep sea mining in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. The idea holds some allure in a place like the Cook Islands, where climate change is linked to droughts, destructive cyclones and rising seas. "If all goes well, there is good that can come out of it. Financially," said third-generation pearl farmer James Kora, 31. "But it relies on how well we manage all those minerals. If the science says it's safe." 'Guinea pigs' Marine biologist Teina Rongo squinted into the sunlight as his small boat motored past the Anuanua Moana, an emblem of an industry he views with deep distrust. "We were never about exploring the bottom of the ocean, because our ancestors believed it is a place of the gods," said Rongo. "We don't belong there." Deep-sea mining companies are still figuring the best way to retrieve nodules that can lie five kilometers (three miles) or more beneath the waves. Deep sea mining equipment onboard the research vessel MV Anuanua Moana in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Most focus on robotic harvesting machines, which scrape up nodules as they crawl the ocean floor. Critics fear mining will smother marine life with plumes of waste, and that the alien noise of heavy machinery will disrupt oceanic migrations. Environmentalist Alanna Smith said researchers knew very little about the deep ocean. "We'd really be the guinea pigs of this industry, going first in. "It's a risky, risky move." 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. Powerful friends A US-backed research expedition in the 1950s was the first to discover the "enormous fields" of polymetallic nodules in the South Pacific. Waves of Japanese, French, American and Russian ships sailed the Cook Islands in the following decades to map this trove. But deep-sea mining was largely a fringe idea until around 2018, when the burgeoning electric vehicle industry sent metal prices soaring. The 1,000-tonne ship MV Anuanua Moana is exploring the far-flung South Pacific for riches buried beneath the waves, spearheading efforts to dredge the tropical waters for industrial deep-sea mining. Mining companies are now vying to exploit the world's four major nodule fieldsthree in international waters, and the fourth in the Cook Islands. The International Seabed Authority meets this month to mull rules that could pave the way for mining in international waters. Although the Cook Islands can mine its territory without the authority's approval, it still has a stake in the decision. The Cook Islands also own one of 17 contracts to hunt for nodules in the international waters of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, halfway between Mexico and Hawaii. So far, the Cook Islands has said its approacheven in its own waterswould be closely "aligned" with the authority's rules. But it remains unclear if it will proceed without those regulations. "We're not setting time frames in terms of when we want to get this started," said Edward Herman, from the Cook Islands' Seabed Minerals Authority. Large tracts of seabed around the Cook Islands are carpeted in polymetallic nodules, misshapen black globes encrusted with cobalt, nickel, manganese and other coveted metals. A fisherman casts his net into the lagoon on the main island of Rarotonga, in the Pacific Ocean state of the Cook Islands. Edward Herman from the Cook Islands' Seabed Minerals Authority holds polymetallic nodules, misshapen black globes encrusted with cobalt, nickel, manganese and other coveted metals in Rarotonga. "I think the time frames will be determined based on what the research and the science and the data tells us." Many of the Cook Islands' South Pacific neighbors want to see deep-sea mining banned. French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a scathing indictment in June, saying the "predatory" industry was environmental "madness." But the Cook Islands has powerful friends. It signed an agreement with China earlier this year for the "exploration and research of seabed mineral resources." "There was a lot of noise," said Herman, referencing the backlash over the China deal. "And obviously there's a lot of interest... whenever China engages with anyone in the Pacific. "And we understand, we accept it, and we will continue." 2025 AFP OAK BROOK, Ill., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Chamberlain Group (CG), global leader in intelligent access solutions and Blackstone portfolio company, welcomes two new executive leaders to accelerate the company's growth and continue its business transformation. Elina Vives is joining as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Brian Boosi joins as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Elina Vives, CMO Brian Boosi, CFO Prior to CG, Elina served as EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at Signify (formally Philips Lighting) where she led the P&L for North America and Mexico, consistently delivering strong top and bottom-line results, expanding the customer base, and driving new household penetration through double-digit growth of the DTC channel. Before her time at Signify, she led brand marketing, demand generation, and go-to-market execution at Samsung Electronics, and prior to that, spent 16 years in sales and marketing leadership roles at MillerCoors. "CG has built an incredibly strong reputation for its flagship brands LiftMaster, myQ and Chamberlain, and I'm looking forward to applying my experience in both Marketing and Commercial Strategy to build on this," said Elina Vives. "There are lots of exciting new developments on the horizon for CG, with a huge opportunity to reach more customers in their journey and demonstrate the value we provide to their everyday lives." Brian joins from Kellogg/Kellanova, where he held numerous roles in finance and most recently served as CFO, North America. He began his Kellogg career as an intern, spent several years leading the finance function in manufacturing plants, then spent 13 years in executive roles including CFO, UK & Ireland and CFO US Retail Categories. Brian also played a critical role in the 2023 spinout of W.K Kellogg Co. from Kellogg/Kellanova. "CG is experiencing rapid growth as it transforms to becoming the global leader in intelligent access," said Brian Boosi. "I'm looking forward to advancing the Finance function to drive business impact that sets us up for long-term success." CG's myQ ecosystem of intelligent access solutions continues to expand with recent new product launches, including the myQ Outdoor Battery Camera and myQ Video Doorbell. CG hardware products are found in 50+ million homes and nearly 14 million people access and monitor their home all in one place using the myQ app. "We're at a pivotal time on CG's transformational journey with ambitious growth goals for 2025 and beyond," said Jeff Meredith, CEO of Chamberlain Group. "I'm confident that Elina and Brian will help take CG's Marketing and Finance functions to the next level, ultimately amplifying our overall business growth." About Chamberlain Group Chamberlain Group (CG) is a global leader in intelligent access and Blackstone portfolio company. Powered by our myQ technology, we make access simple and secure for millions of homeowners, businesses, and communities worldwide. Our flagship brands, LiftMaster and Chamberlain , are found in 50+ million homes, and 14 million people rely on the myQapp daily. Our patented vehicle-to-home connectivity solution, myQ Connected Garage, is available in millions of vehicles from the leading automakers. Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram. SOURCE The Chamberlain Group, Inc. 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 ruins of a Housh, a traditional dwelling, on the island of Djerba. Credit: Ahmed Bedoui, CC BY-NC-ND Nestled in the southern Mediterranean, off the southeast coast of Tunisia, lies the island of Djerba. With a rich cultural and religious history, it has been a crossroad of many civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs, and is home to many unique architectural sites. These include the Sedouikech underground mosque, St Joseph's Church and the El Ghriba Synagogue. But, for many years, Djerba's cultural heritage has been in danger. This is due to a combination of over-tourism, environmental change and human neglect. By the 1990s to early 2000s, when Djerba was at the height of its popularity, the island was attracting between 1 million and 1.5 million visitors each year. It is one of Tunisia's most popular tourist areas, with more hotels than any other destination in the country. Tourism has resulted in excessive tourist traffic in Djerba, particularly during the summer. It has also contributed to other problems such as water stress and waste generation. According to figures from 2020, hotels alone generate between 35% and 40% of all the waste on the island. But the development of tourism has, above all, altered Djerba's cultural landscape. In some areas of the island, Djerba's traditional housinghoumas, menzels and houchshave given way to more modern tourist infrastructure. This has accelerated since Tunisia's 2011 revolution, when long-time dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted. Weak institutional oversight has led to vandalism, illegal construction on archaeological sites and unauthorized demolitions. The development of tourism on Djerba has also eroded traditional ways of life. The island has experienced significant changes due to tourism, with the development of roads, ferries, an airport and the internet leading to a decline in traditional activity. Livelihoods like agriculture, fishing and artisanal crafts have declined and are often now showcased only in tourist areas. 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. Climate change has worsened Djerba's problems. Rainfall patterns have changed across the island over recent decades, with models suggesting that annual precipitation rates could drop 20% by the end of the century. More frequent and prolonged droughts are expected. At the same time, rising sea levels and increasingly common storm surges are affecting the island. Research from 2022 found that 14% of Djerba's beaches are now highly vulnerable to submersion and coastal erosion. Several historical monuments on Djerba have already experienced periodic flooding and saltwater intrusion. The ruins of Sidi Garous and the shrine of Sidi Bakour are now entirely underwater and have been replaced by memorials. Other archaeological sites located near the coast like Haribus, Meninx, Ghizene and Edzira, some of which date back to the Roman era (eighth century BC to fifth century AD), are now partially or fully submerged. Studies by Tunisia's National Institute of Heritage suggest that many of these sites have been lost permanently to the encroaching sea. World heritage site Significant portions of Djerba's cultural heritage have already been erased by sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Future losses could be even more severe. The island's cultural heritage will only grow more precarious without meaningful preservation and climate adaptation efforts. However, many of Djerba's monuments, historical buildings and traditional dwellings have suffered from years of neglect. A chronic lack of local and international funding, as well as weak institutional frameworks for heritage management, mean some of the island's historic structures have been abandoned. Many other buildings have deteriorated due to a lack of protective measures and maintenance. Community organizations such as the Association for the Safeguarding of the Island of Djerba have tried to step in to fill the void left by weak institutional frameworks. Their work ranges from delivering public awareness campaigns to local young people to efforts like re-purposing ancient rainwater tanks to manage periods of drought. But these grassroots efforts alone are not enough to stop Djerba's cultural heritage from deteriorating at its current pace. In September 2023, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) announced that it was adding Djerba to its list of world heritage sites. Tunisia's culture ministry welcomed the decision. It followed years of efforts by local groups and government officials to add Djerba to the list. Djerba's inclusion offers hope for the long-term preservation of the island's heritage. A world heritage site designation increases global recognition and enables improved access to sources of funding. And since Djerba's classification, there has been some progress. The culture ministry has established a task force to monitor the construction of buildings and other infrastructure, collect data on designated protected areas, and prepare projects to preserve heritage sites. But Djerba's cultural heritage remains in danger. Improved preservation of these sites will require continuous funding and stringent regulation of tourism and construction activities. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Across North America, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and other pesticides had a significant impact on bats from the 1940s through the '60s. Since the ban on DDT in 1972, bat populations had been slowly recovering, until a fungal disease appeared three-plus decades later. Bat populations crashed again, when white-nose syndrome was discovered in a New York cave in 2006. The fungus that causes the disease spread rapidly across much of the United States, and the number of bat species that hibernate in caves and mines plummeted. In 2012, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service estimated that 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats had perished in the eastern United States and Canada since the disease was first discovered. It initially wiped out 90% to 95% of many bat populations. These mammals play a vital ecosystem role. The nine bat species found in southern New England are insectivores, meaning they eat insects such as mosquitoes and some moths humans would label pests. It's been estimated that an individual bat can eat 600 insects an hour. Nearly 70% of bat species feed primarily on insects. Some eat fruit, rodents, frogs, and fish. Peter August, a retired professor of natural resources at the University of Rhode Island who spent his undergraduate and graduate years studying small mammals, including bats, noted these flying warm-blooded vertebrates provide a number of free services that benefit humankind. They pollinate plants"If you like margaritas, they pollinate the agave plant that makes tequila," he saiddispense seeds, provide biological control services that includes consuming corn earworm moths, a major agricultural pest, and provide medical insight. "The little brown bat weighs 8 grams and can eat 10 grams of insects a night," August said. Through pollination, bats also help grow avocados, bananas, and mangoes. In all, some 300 species of fruit depend on bats for pollination. Their presence in significant numbers also allows farmers to use less pesticides. August noted bats don't get cancer, so by studying them humans can "get a window into anti-cancer issues." They are the only mammals capable of true flight, and there are some 1,400 different species worldwide. In the United States, about 50 species of bats can be found. Bats come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny bumblebee bat that weighs less than a penny to flying foxes that can have a wingspan of up to 6 feet. Bats aren't blind, as their eyesight is similar to that of humans, and only threethe common vampire bat, the hairy-legged vampire bat, and the white-winged vampire batfeed solely on blood, mostly that of birds. You would have to travel much further south than southern New England to find one. Bats aren't "rodents with wings." They are in their own mammalian order called Chiroptera, which in Greek means "hand wings." Although they are small like rodents, bats are more closely related to primates and humans than they are to mice or rats. 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. Bats are extremely long-lived for their size, but also have one of the slowest reproductive rates for animals their size. August noted bat pups, typically born in late spring/early summer, have a 90% mortality rate. He said pups are clumsy feeders, inefficient hunters, new at flying, and they "just don't have the ability to put on all that fat mass to get through that first winter." Those bats who survive the first year can live up to 35 years, compared to rats that live 1-2 years. Female bats usually only give birth to one pup a year; rats give birth to many offspring, multiple times a year. The following is a look at the bats in southern New England listed as a species of concern, threatened or endangered: Eastern red (tree bat): Listed as a species of concern in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. These bats are usually solitary, occurring together only to mate and when caring for their young. They may also be loosely drawn together while feeding and during migration. Like neotropical migrant songbirds, tree bats migrate south for the winter, returning north in the spring. They begin migrating south as early as August but primarily move in October and November and return by March and April. As with most other tree bats, eastern reds are threatened by the precipitous decline in larger moths due to parasitism by the nonnative wasp Compsilura concinnata. The wasp was introduced to North America in 1906 to control two invasive forest insects: gypsy moths and browntail moths. In Massachusetts, this bat has been recorded in 103 of the state's 351 municipalities and in all 14 counties. This species is considered a hardwood-forest dweller, although they forage over a wide range of habitat types, including orchards, parks, cemeteries, residential areas, harvested forest cuts, woods/field edges, streams, and the edges of lakes and ponds. They generally roost in the foliage of hardwood trees. Hoary (tree bat): Listed as a species of concern in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. This species, the largest bat in southern New England with a wingspan of nearly 17 inches, can fly up to 60 mph. It measures 4-6 inches in length and weighs 0.6 to 1.4 ounces. Females are about 4% larger than males. Since they don't emerge until well after sunset, fly high and fast, and live singly, hoary bats aren't well reported. They have been documented in 55 of 351 Massachusetts municipalities and in 12 of the state's 14 counties. They are most often associated with coniferous forests, but they are also found in woodlands, farmlands, fields, over ponds, and in residential neighborhoods with mature trees. Silver-haired (tree bat): Listed as a species of concern in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. They are the most uncommon of the three species of tree bat in Massachusetts, with records from only 33 of the 351 municipalities and in 11 of 14 counties. They hunt along the borders of mature hardwood forests and fields, over ponds, along streams, and in hardwood clear-cuts. Farther north, they are associated with mature spruce/fir habitats. They often roost solitarily in hollow trees, crevices in rocks and cliffs, and under loose bark. Eastern small-footed (cave bat): Listed as endangered in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. This species is one of the tiniest bats in the eastern United States with a forearm length of only 1.2-1.4 inches and a total length of 2.8-3.7 inches. It has a distinctive black "masked" face, tiny hind feet, and a flattened skull that helps it squeeze into tight rock crevices. For more than 40 years, the only record of this bat occurring in Massachusetts was a single specimen found in a Hampden County mine in 1937 and preserved in Harvard University's Museum of Comparative Zoology. From 1980 to 2017, a few more individuals were documented hibernating in three mines and caves, and since 2018, more locations, including several summer records have been documented. The first documentation of breeding didn't occur until 2024. They often roost singly but may be found in small groups. In the summer, they emerge at dusk and fly slowly and erratically, gleaning insects in the forest canopy. Facing significant threats from white-nose syndrome, this species relies on the protection of undisturbed caves and mines for its survival. Indiana (cave bat): Listed as endangered in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. In summer, females with young roost together in maternity colonies. These small summer colonies, ranging from a couple to a few dozen bats, are usually under the loose bark of standing dead trees, but occasionally are under the bark of live trees, particularly shagbark hickory, or in cavities. Females bear one young per year, in late June. The young bats are weaned in about a month and can be flying by mid-July. They begin migrating back to their winter hibernacula as early as late July, but most arrive back in September and October. Unlike many bat species that hibernate in North America, nearly all Indiana bats hibernate in just a few select caves and abandoned mines. These large aggregations of hibernating bats are very susceptible to disturbance by humans in winter and, in recent years, to infection with white-nose syndrome. The last hibernating colony of these bats in Massachusetts was in a mine in the town of Chester in 1939. As their population slowly increased in New York and they returned to Vermont, there was hope that this species would soon be rediscovered in Massachusetts. Little brown (cave bat): Listed as endangered in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. This species was once the most abundant bat in Massachusetts, but its population declined by more than 99% after the onset of white-nose syndrome. In the summer, these bats emerge at dusk from daytime roosts for the first in a series of nighttime flights. They use echolocation to locate the insects on which they feed, often catching them in their tail or wing membranes. By the end of summer, the bats have accumulated stored fat, often comprising up to 45% of their body weight. They begin to "swarm" around the entrances of caves and are thought to be testing the air of possible hibernacula. By the end of October, the bats enter hibernation sites. The big brown bat (not state listed in southern New England) is the only other bat commonly found in houses. Northern long-eared (cave bat): Listed as endangered in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. This species has specialized flight and is highly adapted for maneuvering through dense forest canopies. Unfortunately, this bat has been severely impacted by drastic population declines due to white-nose syndrome, which disrupts hibernation and depletes stored energy. Their long tails and large wing membranes allow these bats to fly slowly and navigate through cluttered environments. These special adaptations enable them to glean prey from foliage, in addition to catching insects on the fly. These bats locate resting insects through a combination of passive listening and the emission of high-frequency echolocation calls. Tricolored (cave bat): Listed as endangered in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. This is the only species of bat in the Northeast with 34 teeth. All the species of Myotis have 38, while the big brown bat and all the tree bats have 32. They are the earliest bats to emerge to feed in the evening. They use echolocation to locate insects, often catching them in tail or wing membranes. Their foraging area is small relative to other bats, but they may travel up to 5 miles from their roosting site to feed. They have been known to migrate up to 85 miles to hibernation sites. Their numbers were reduced by heavy pesticide use in the mid-1900s but were steadily on the rise again until the outbreak of white-nose syndrome in the winter of 2007-08. 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: Samara Weaving in the horror film "Ready or Not." Weaving plays Grace, a bride who must survive until dawn on her wedding day as her in-laws hunt her down. Credit: Searchlight Pictures When Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and fiancee Lauren Sanchez held their lavish three-day wedding celebration in Venice recently, it wasn't just a partyit was a spectacle of wealth, reportedly costing between US$47 million and US$56 million. Critics highlighted the environmental toll of such an event on the fragile, flood-prone city, while protesters took to the streets to condemn the wedding as a tone-deaf symbol of oligarchical wealth at a time when many can't afford to pay rent, let alone rent an island. The excessive show of opulence felt like the opening of a horror film, and lately, that's exactly what horror has been giving us. In films like "Ready or Not" (2019) and "The Menu" (2022), the rich aren't simply out of touch; they're portrayed as predators, criminals or even monsters. These "eat-the-rich" films channel widespread anxieties about the current socioeconomic climate and increasing disillusionment with capitalist systems. In a world where the wealthy and powerful often seem to act with impunity, these films expose upper-class immorality and entitlement, and offer revenge fantasies where those normally crushed by the system fight back or burn it all down. Horror takes aim at the wealthy Originally a quote from social theorist Jean-Jacques Rousseau during the French Revolution, "eat the rich" has re-emerged in recent years in public protests and on social media in response to increasing socioeconomic inequality. In cinema, eat-the-rich films often use grotesque hyperbole or satire to reveal and critique capitalist systems and the behaviors of the wealthy elite. Film scholar Robin Wood argues that horror films enact a return of what is repressed by dominant bourgeoisthat is, capitalistideology, typically embodied by the figure of the monster. Trailer for the 2019 horror film "Ready or Not." He cites "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre," a classic example of anti-capitalist sentiment in horror that depicts Leatherface (Gunnar Hansen) and his working-class family as monstrous victims of the 1970s industrial collapse. Rather than accept repression, they return as cannibalistic monsters, making visible the brutality of capitalist systems that exploit and degrade people like obsolete commodities. But in eat-the-rich horror, it is the wealthy themselves who become the monsters. The locus of repression becomes their privilege, which is often built on exploitation, inequality and invisible or normalized forms of harm. These films render these abstract systems tangible by making the elite's monstrosity visible, literal and grotesque. 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. Revenge horror for the 99% Recent horror films are increasingly using genre conventions to critique wealth, privilege and the systems that sustain them. "Ready or Not" turns the rich into bloodthirsty monsters who maintain their fortune through satanic rituals and human sacrifice. Grace (Samara Weaving) marries into the Le Domas family, board game magnates who initiate new family members with a deadly game of hide-and-seek. She must survive until dawn while her new in-laws hunt her down to fulfill a demonic pact. The film critiques the idea of inherited wealth as something earned or honorable, combining humor and horror to reflect anxieties about class entrenchment and the moral decay of the elite. The Le Domases are monstrous not only for their violence, but for how casually they justify it. When several maids are accidentally killed in the chaos, they react with self-pity, indifferent to who must be sacrificed to maintain their wealth. In "The Menu," the rich are portrayed as monstrous not through physical violence, but through their moral failingslike financial crimes and infidelityand their hollow consumption of culture. Celebrity chef Julian Slowik (Ralph Fiennes) lures wealthy foodies to his exclusive island restaurant, using food as a weaponized form of art to expose guests' hypocrisy and misdeeds. In one scene, guests are served tortillas laser-printed with incriminating images, such as banking records and evidence of fraudulent activity. The film criticizes consumption in an industry where food is no longer a source of enjoyment or sustenance, but a status symbol for the elite to display their wealth and taste. Why these films are striking a nerve now It's no surprise that audiences are turning to horror to make sense of systems that feel increasingly bleak and inescapable. In Canada, the cost of living continues to outpace wages, housing affordability remains an issue for many, while grocery prices are a source of horror in their own right. A university degree, once considered a reliable path to stability, no longer guarantees the financial security of a salaried job. Many Canadians now rely on gig economy jobs as supplementary income. Meanwhile, the wealth gap is increasing and obscene displays of wealthlike a multi-million-dollar weddingcan feel disconnected, even offensive, to people experiencing financial precarity. Eat-the-rich films tap into this collective sense of injustice, transforming economic and social anxieties into a cathartic spectacle where ultra-wealthy villains are held accountable for their actions. At the end of "Ready or Not," the members of the Le Domas family explode one by one and their mansion burns down. In "The Menu," the guests are dressed up like s'mores and immolated. In both films, fire serves as a symbolic cleansing of the wealthy, their power and the systems that protect them. More than that, these films provide someone to root for: working-class protagonists who are targeted by the elite but ultimately survive. Former foster child Grace fights her way through a pack of murderous millionaires, while escort Margot/Erin (Anya Taylor-Joy) is spared when she rejects the pretentiousness of fine dining and orders a humble cheeseburger instead. In this way, horror becomes a form of narrative resistance, illustrating class rage through characters who refuse to be consumed by the systems trying to oppress them. While inequality and exploitation persist in reality, eat-the-rich films offer escape, and even justice, on screen. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Arecibo Radio Telescope was one of the first to be used for the search for alien intelligence. Credit : H. Schweiker/WIYN and NOAO/AURA/NSF Just imagine it, the news stories are all over your phone when you wake! The day will surely come that we will discover that we are not alone in the universe! What happens the day after though? A new research paper posted to the arXiv preprint server from the SETI Post Detection Hub at the University of St Andrews tackles this question, outlining how NASA and the global scientific community should prepare for the moment humanity detects signs of extraterrestrial intelligence. The paper, written by 14 researchers representing institutions from York University to the University of Cambridge, emphasizes that "a technosignature detection will trigger a complex global process shaped by uncertainty, misinformation, and multiple ideological stakeholders." Unlike searching for simple microbial life, discovering technological signatures from alien civilizations would fundamentally reshape our understanding of our place in the universe and create unprecedented challenges. The researchers led by Kate Genevieve from the Astro Ecologies Institution argue that past preparation efforts, including guidelines from 1989, are woefully outdated for our internet age. Early protocols predate the internet and could not account for the complexity of rapid global media dissemination. In an era of viral misinformation and instant global communication, the discovery of alien technology would likely create a media firestorm unlike anything humanity has experienced. The team proposes six critical areas where NASA should invest now, before any discovery occurs. These range from advancing detection technologies to studying how different cultures might interpret the news of extraterrestrial discovery. One fascinating aspect of the research involves developing "Other Minds" paradigms, essentially preparing to recognize intelligence that doesn't think like us. The paper suggests that techniques from bioacoustics, machine learning and quantum computing offer significant insights, including studying whale songs and bird navigation to understand non-human communication patterns. This approach challenges researchers to move beyond Earth-centric assumptions. If aliens communicate through methods we've never imagined, perhaps using quantum entanglement or patterns we haven't recognized, then our current detection methods might miss them entirely. Surprisingly, much of the preparation work focuses not on alien technology but on human psychology and interaction. The researchers emphasize integrating humanities and social sciences, recognizing that the biggest challenges might come from how people react to the news rather than from the aliens themselves. The paper recommends funding research on the psychological, social, and global dynamics of post-detection scenarios and even suggests analyzing science fiction stories to understand how different cultures envision first contact. These fictional scenarios, the researchers argue, provide valuable insights into human expectations and fears. Perhaps most practically, the team calls for creating robust international coordination systems before they're needed. They warn that without a Post Detection SETI Hub, NASA risks a gap in the system, akin to a moon landing without astronaut retrieval. Just as NASA developed detailed protocols for Apollo missions, including quarantine procedures, the space agency needs comprehensive plans for managing a SETI discovery. The researchers don't claim that discovering extraterrestrial intelligence is imminent however, but they argue that preparation now is essential. With advanced telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope already operational and instruments like the Vera C. Rubin Observatory coming online, a technosignature discovery could emerge in any realm of astronomy research. Their message is clear: the question isn't whether we'll ever detect signs of alien technology, but whether we'll be ready when we do. By investing in research, international cooperation, and communication strategies now, NASA can help ensure that humanity's greatest discovery becomes a moment of unity and wonder rather than chaos and confusion. More information: Kate Genevieve et al, SETI Post-Detection Futures: Directions for Technosignature Research and Readiness, arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2507.11587 Journal information: arXiv This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Research framework for AI-assisted crop design. Credit: IGDB In a major step toward securing global food supplies and advancing sustainable agriculture, a team of scientists has proposed an integrated framework that combines biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize crop breeding. Publishedin Nature on July 24, the review was co-corresponding authored by Prof. Gao Caixia from the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Prof. Li Guotian of Huazhong Agricultural University, with contributions from additional co-authors including international collaborators. Facing a rapidly growing global population, intensifying climate change, and shrinking arable land area, ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture is now one of the world's most pressing challenges. This review explores the integration of multi-omics, genome editing, protein design, and high-throughput phenotyping (HTP) as part of a comprehensive vision for "AI + BT" (biotechnology) integration to genetically improve crops. The authors present a forward-looking framework for AI-assisted crop germplasm design, offering a clear roadmap for the future of sustainable agriculture. The authors first emphasize the foundational role of modern omics technologies in creating a paradigm shift in crop breeding. They show that advances in genomics, metabolomics, and single-cell omics offer unprecedented insights into the genetic and biological mechanisms influencing crop traits, while revealing precise new targets for trait improvement. They also note that HTP technologieswhich leverage drones, sensors, and automation platformsenable rapid and accurate phenotypic assessments crucial for linking genotypes to phenotypes and identifying valuable genetic variations. The review also spotlights powerful tools for crop improvement. For example, CRISPR-based genome editing enables efficient and precise genome modification, greatly reducing breeding cycles and enabling the rapid creation and stacking of desirable traits. Meanwhile, AI-driven protein design is emerging as a transformative technology through its capacity to design de novo functional proteins not found in nature. This approach facilitates the development of novel disease-resistance proteins, real-time biosensors for crop monitoring, and custom enzymes for environmental cleanup, thereby endowing crops with transformative traits. The review particularly focuses on the proposal for an integrative "AI-assisted crop design" model that would use AI to analyze multimodal big data from genomes, phenotypes, environments, and agricultural practices. Breeders would define specific goalssuch as increasing yield, enhancing stress tolerance, or improving nutritional qualitywhile AI would generate optimized, technically actionable breeding strategies through deep learning and knowledge inference. This data-driven approach marks a shift from experience-based breeding to precision design. The authors also address the challenges ahead. High-quality, standardized data is essential for training robust AI models, and new technologies must comply with biosafety regulations. Encouragingly, global regulatory frameworks for genome-edited crops are evolving toward more scientific and streamlined approaches, paving the way for broader adoption. More information: Guotian Li et al, Integrated biotechnological and AI innovations for crop improvement, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09122-8 Journal information: Nature 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 SpaceX got to within 15 seconds of a launch from Cape Canaveral on Monday, but a "hold, hold, hold" call from among the mission control team members forced an abort. They were back for another try on Tuesday and pulled it off. A Falcon 9 rocket on the mPOWER-D mission with two more communication satellites for Luxembourg-based SES lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex 40 at 5:12 p.m. Eastern time. After the Monday abort call, the countdown clock halted at 11 seconds, the launch director announced teams would proceed with the removal of propellant. While the weather was a concern before the launch window opened, SpaceX did not state the reason for the abort, but did say the rocket and payload remained healthy and would try again to launch during the backup Tuesday window. This was SES' 15th SpaceX launch. Company payloads were on the eighth ever Falcon 9 launch in 2013 and the first reused booster flight of a Falcon 9 in 2017, among others. It was the sixth flight for the first-stage booster, which made a recovery landing downrange on the droneship Just Read the Instructions stationed in the Atlantic. The payloads are the ninth and 10th O3b mPOWER satellites built by Boeing Space for SES. They are headed to medium-Earth orbit at about 5,000 miles altitude. This was the 62nd launch on the Space Coast from all companies in 2025, with all but three coming from SpaceX. Blue Origin had one with its New Glenn debut in January while United Launch Alliance has flown two Atlas V rockets as well. ULA could fly before the end of the month with what would be its third-ever launch of the new Vulcan rocket, which has been prepping to fly its first national security mission, USSF-106, from Canaveral Space Launch Complex 41. Blue Origin recently announced its next New Glenn launch would be for NASA's Mars-bound ESCAPADE mission, but didn't announce a target liftoff date. SpaceX has flown 42 of its missions from Canaveral's SLC-40 and all 16 of the launches from Kennedy Space Center this year. The next KSC launch could come as early as July 31 for NASA's Crew-11 mission. 2025 Orlando Sentinel. 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: Bruce Perry, 17, demonstrates the possibilities of artificial intelligence by creating an AI companion on Character AI, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Russellville, Ark. Credit: AP Photo/Katie Adkins No question is too small when Kayla Chege, a high school student in Kansas, is using artificial intelligence. The 15-year-old asks ChatGPT for guidance on back-to-school shopping, makeup colors, low-calorie choices at Smoothie King, plus ideas for her Sweet 16 and her younger sister's birthday party. The sophomore honors student makes a point not to have chatbots do her homework and tries to limit her interactions to mundane questions. But in interviews with The Associated Press and a new study, teenagers say they are increasingly interacting with AI as if it were a companion, capable of providing advice and friendship. "Everyone uses AI for everything now. It's really taking over," said Chege, who wonders how AI tools will affect her generation. "I think kids use AI to get out of thinking." For the past couple of years, concerns about cheating at school have dominated the conversation around kids and AI. But artificial intelligence is playing a much larger role in many of their lives. AI, teens say, has become a go-to source for personal advice, emotional support, everyday decision-making and problem-solving. 'AI is always available. It never gets bored with you' More than 70% of teens have used AI companions and half use them regularly, according to a new study from Common Sense Media, a group that studies and advocates for using screens and digital media sensibly. Bruce Perry, 17, demonstrates Character AI, an artificial intelligence chatbot software that allows users to chat with popular characters such as EVE from Disney's 2008 animated film, WALL-E, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Russellville, Ark. Credit: AP Photo/Katie Adkins The study defines AI companions as platforms designed to serve as "digital friends," like Character.AI or Replika, which can be customized with specific traits or personalities and can offer emotional support, companionship and conversations that can feel human-like. But popular sites like ChatGPT and Claude, which mainly answer questions, are being used in the same way, the researchers say. As the technology rapidly gets more sophisticated, teenagers and experts worry about AI's potential to redefine human relationships and exacerbate crises of loneliness and youth mental health. "AI is always available. It never gets bored with you. It's never judgmental," says Ganesh Nair, an 18-year-old in Arkansas. "When you're talking to AI, you are always right. You're always interesting. You are always emotionally justified." All that used to be appealing, but as Nair heads to college this fall, he wants to step back from using AI. Nair got spooked after a high school friend who relied on an "AI companion" for heart-to-heart conversations with his girlfriend later had the chatbot write the breakup text ending his two-year relationship. "That felt a little bit dystopian, that a computer generated the end to a real relationship," said Nair. "It's almost like we are allowing computers to replace our relationships with people." How many teens are using AI? New study stuns researchers In the Common Sense Media survey, 31% of teens said their conversations with AI companions were "as satisfying or more satisfying" than talking with real friends. Even though half of teens said they distrust AI's advice, 33% had discussed serious or important issues with AI instead of real people. Bruce Perry, 17, poses for a portrait after discussing his use of artificial intelligence in school assignments and for personal questions Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Russellville, Ark. Credit: AP Photo/Katie Adkins Those findings are worrisome, says Michael Robb, the study's lead author and head researcher at Common Sense, and should send a warning to parents, teachers and policymakers. The now-booming and largely unregulated AI industry is becoming as integrated with adolescence as smartphones and social media are. "It's eye-opening," said Robb. "When we set out to do this survey, we had no understanding of how many kids are actually using AI companions." The study polled more than 1,000 teens nationwide in April and May. Adolescence is a critical time for developing identity, social skills and independence, Robb said, and AI companions should complementnot replacereal-world interactions. "If teens are developing social skills on AI platforms where they are constantly being validated, not being challenged, not learning to read social cues or understand somebody else's perspective, they are not going to be adequately prepared in the real world," he said. The nonprofit analyzed several popular AI companions in a " risk assessment," finding ineffective age restrictions and that the platforms can produce sexual material, give dangerous advice and offer harmful content. The group recommends that minors not use AI companions. 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. A concerning trend to teens and adults alike Researchers and educators worry about the cognitive costs for youth who rely heavily on AI, especially in their creativity, critical thinking and social skills. The potential dangers of children forming relationships with chatbots gained national attention last year when a 14-year-old Florida boy died by suicide after developing an emotional attachment to a Character.AI chatbot. Bruce Perry, 17, shows his ChatGPT history at a coffee shop in Russellville, Ark., Tuesday, July 15, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Katie Adkins "Parents really have no idea this is happening," said Eva Telzer, a psychology and neuroscience professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. "All of us are struck by how quickly this blew up." Telzer is leading multiple studies on youth and AI, a new research area with limited data. Telzer's research has found that children as young as 8 are using generative AI and also found that teens are using AI to explore their sexuality and for companionship. In focus groups, Telzer found that one of the top apps teens frequent is SpicyChat AI, a free role-playing app intended for adults. Many teens also say they use chatbots to write emails or messages to strike the right tone in sensitive situations. "One of the concerns that comes up is that they no longer have trust in themselves to make a decision," said Telzer. "They need feedback from AI before feeling like they can check off the box that an idea is OK or not." Arkansas teen Bruce Perry, 17, says he relates to that and relies on AI tools to craft outlines and proofread essays for his English class. "If you tell me to plan out an essay, I would think of going to ChatGPT before getting out a pencil," Perry said. He uses AI daily and has asked chatbots for advice in social situations, to help him decide what to wear and to write emails to teachers, saying AI articulates his thoughts faster. Perry says he feels fortunate that AI companions were not around when he was younger. Bruce Perry, 17, demonstrates using artificial intelligence software on his laptop during a break from summer camp Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Russellville, Ark. Credit: AP Photo/Katie Adkins "I'm worried that kids could get lost in this," Perry said. "I could see a kid that grows up with AI not seeing a reason to go to the park or try to make a friend." Other teens agree, saying the issues with AI and its effect on children's mental health are different from those of social media. "Social media complemented the need people have to be seen, to be known, to meet new people," Nair said. "I think AI complements another need that runs a lot deeperour need for attachment and our need to feel emotions. It feeds off of that." "It's the new addiction," Nair added. "That's how I see it." 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: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A new study from the University of Georgia found that even unenforced, or "toothless," compulsory voting laws can increase voter turnout. The research is published in the journal Electoral Studies. Governments around the world are searching for ways to combat low voter turnout. And this study suggests simply putting a mandatory voting law on the bookswithout imposing any penalties on people who don't show up to the pollsmay meaningfully shift civic behavior. Based on a rare natural experiment in the Indian state of Karnataka, the study found the 2015 adoption of a non-penalized compulsory voting law led to a 6.5 to 14 percentage point increase in voter turnout in local village elections. "We see clear evidence that people respond to the law, even in the absence of enforcement," said Shane Singh, corresponding author of the study and the Joshua W. Jones Professor of Public and International Affairs in the UGA School of Public and International Affairs. "It supports the idea that laws have an expressive function: They shape norms and behavior even when there are no punishments involved." Compulsory voting: A gentler way to strengthen democracy The study arrives at a pivotal time for democracies grappling with chronically low voter turnout. Unlike more punitive models used elsewhere, Singh's findings suggest a "lighter touch" approach could still be effective. "You don't need to punish people to encourage voting," Singh explained. "Sometimes just making voting compulsory, even without teeth, is enough." Just as most drivers will stop at a stop sign even when no one is around and there's no enforcement in sight, people are often inclined to follow laws simply because they exist, the researchers said. Other countries grapple with concept of mandatory voting This research offers timely insights for policymakers in the United States and abroad. In the last few years, several U.S. state legislatures have debated compulsory voting bills with varying levels of enforcement, including none at all. Internationally, some countries harshly penalize nonvoters while others have no penalties for abstention. Chile's legislature, for example, is currently debating whether to add enforcement mechanisms to its own compulsory voting law. "Our findings should encourage governments to consider unenforced compulsory voting as a serious, middle-ground policy," Singh said. "It's a viable option for boosting turnout, one that encourages participation without relying on punishments or penalties." The study adds powerful new evidence to the global conversation on how democracies can strengthen participation without heavy-handed enforcement. As lawmakers in the U.S. and abroad explore ways to boost turnout, this research offers a compelling, data-driven case for rethinking what it means to make voting "mandatory." The study was co-authored by Reshikesav Rajan, a graduate of the UGA School of Public and International Affairs and current doctoral student at Texas A&M University. More information: Reshikesav Rajan et al, Toothless compulsory voting can increase turnout: Evidence from India, Electoral Studies (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.electstud.2025.102951 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: Macrophotographs of wild treehoppers exemplifying a small portion of the morphological diversity seen in the Membracidae, photographed at various locations around Costa Rica (AJ and L) and the United Kingdom (K). (A) Polyglypta costata. (B) Poppea capricornis. (C) Antianthe expansa. (D) Cladonota apicalis. (E) Bocydium mae. (F) Enchophyllum sp. (G) Heteronotus trinodosus. (H) Alchisme grossa. (I) Notocera sp. (J) Ennya chrysura. (K) Centrotus cornutus. (L) Membracis mexicana. Credit: England, et al., 10.1073/pnas.2505253122 From the ultra-high frequency hearing of the Greater Wax Moth to the polarized light-detecting eyes of mantis shrimp, evolution by natural selection has produced a spectacular array of sensory adaptations that enhance survival. One of the most uncanny sensory adaptations found in nature is electroreception, the ability to detect faint electrical fields. Though most common among aquatic and semi-aquatic animals, this sensory ability is also found among a handful of insects. A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences describes a bizarre insect with previously unrecognized electroreception ability: the treehopper. Setting the treehopper apart from other electroreceptive insects is the way its body went to evolutionary extremes to better harness this ability. Treehoppers, which are closely related to cicadas and leafhoppers, are most notable for their strikingly massive and otherworldly pronotum, a shield-like segment of thorax located just below the heads. This feature, which extends either forward or backward, depending on the variety of treehopper you encounter, can resemble horns, spikes, parts of plants, and other indescribable shapes. Among insects, such features can provide excellent camouflage to help deter would-be predators. The pronotum of the treehopper, however, is so incredibly distinctive (some species even stand out with bright colors and bold patterns), that it caught the attention of scientists who theorized there may be more to this feature than meets the eye. "The function of these morphological extremities and the reasons for their evolution have thus far remained largely enigmatic," the authors write in the paper. Three-dimensional finite element analysis model of the electric field between a typically charged P. capricornis treehopper with and without its extreme pronotum, situated on a plant stem, being approached by a typically charged predatory wasp, viewed from various angles. Color indicates electric field strength, truncated at 2 kVm 1 for clarity. Gray indicates three-dimensional model geometry. Credit: England, et al., 10.1073/pnas.2505253122 To explore the potential of an evolutionary form-follows-function reason behind this adaptation, the researchers hypothesized that the treehopper's massive, complex pronotum may react in the same way that antennae on certain bees, mites, and caterpillars respond to static electric fields. To test this idea, the researchers first had to quantify the electrostatic charges in the treehopper's natural habitat, so they measured the charges of various wild treehoppers, wasps, and bees in multiple locations around Costa Rica. The readings were taken as the various insects passed through a ring electrode system. Their data included a total of 151 individual treehoppers, two species of wasp, and two species of stingless bees. They then calculated the strength and structure of an electric field that would exist between a typical treehopper on a plant and an approaching predatory wasp. The results showed that there was a detectable electric field when the two were in close proximity. Remarkably, the fields detected around the most protruding portions of the treehopper's pronotum were 50 times stronger than the baseline readings. The researchers also found that the bizarre helmet-like morphology of the treehopper's pronotum decreased its detectability to any electroreceptive predators; nature's own form of an electrical cloaking device. "Our study reveals that the extreme morphologies seen in animals such as treehoppers may increase their sensitivity to electrical stimuli," the authors write, highlighting the remarkable connection between form and function, even when it is inconspicuously connected to such a conspicuous adaptation. Until the mid-1980s, most scientists thought that electroreception was only found in fishes and amphibians. Then in 1986, researchers confirmed that platypuses could also detect weak electrical fields. This was also confirmed, but to a lesser degree, among the platypuses' more terrestrial relative, the echidna. More recently, in 2013, a team of scientists led by Daniel Roberts, a co-author on the new paper, discovered that bees could also detect minute electrical fields produced by flowers. Written for you by our author Charles Blue, edited by Sadie Harley, and fact-checked and reviewed by Andrew Zininthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you. More information: Sam J. England et al, Electroreception in treehoppers: How extreme morphologies can increase electrical sensitivity, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2505253122 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 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: Composite photo showing Prof. Jianxi Gao walking down River Street in Troy, NY, today next to a historic March 28, 1913, photo of the same block during a severe flood. Credit: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute When a 100-year flood hits a city, traffic doesn't suddenly stop or disappearit adapts. "In spite of increasing flood risks, more and more people are moving into flood-prone areas," said Jianxi Gao, associate professor of computer science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. "This makes it even more urgent to understand how resilient our infrastructure isand how people adapt when disaster strikes." Gao is part of an international team studying how urban transportation systems adapt to extreme weather events like floods. Their work, "Adaptive capacity for multimodal transport network resilience to extreme weather," published in Nature Sustainability, uses an innovative modeling approach to uncover a universal law governing how travelers shift between private vehicles and public transit during such disruptions. This law reveals that shifts between transport modes, such as from cars to buses, follow predictable patterns driven by changes in travel demand, the density of transport networks, and how modes either compete or support each other. The agent-based multimodal traffic model, paired with a compound failure model, simulated flood impacts in three cities: Nanjing, China; Hamburg, Germany; and Los Angeles, the United States. By analyzing millions of trips, the team quantified how travelers adapt in response to flood-related disruptions by switching routes or modessuch as from cars to subwaysand how these modes compete with and complement each other. Despite the cities' varying traffic systems, a common pattern emerged that may apply to cities not examined in this study. The research found that adaptation hinges on traffic density, network connectivity and the interplay between travel modes. For instance, when public transit becomes unreliable, many shift to cars, potentially worsening road congestion. On the other hand, robust public transit can absorb demand, easing pressure on roads. For example, in the Nanjing simulation, when floods disrupted subways, passengers adapted by switching to buses, resulting in higher trip completion rates and maintaining overall system functionality. Travel behavior changes due to flooding. Credit: Nature Sustainability (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-025-01575-z These findings provide a framework for cities to predict and manage flood-related disruptions and can help identify interventions to improve transportation system resiliency. "This work is a step toward building smarter, more resilient infrastructurebefore the next disaster hits," Gao said. The team's model also highlights interventions to enhance resilience, such as emergency public transit lines, travel subsidies, traffic signal adjustments and public education campaigns. These strategies could help cities maintain functionality during floods and recover more swiftly afterward. "Professor Gao's work exemplifies RPI's commitment to tackling global challenges through interdisciplinary innovation," said Chuck Stewart, administrative dean of RPI's School of Science. "This research not only advances our understanding of urban resilience but also provides actionable solutions for cities facing climate-driven threats." The study's simulations drew on real-world data, including OpenStreetMap road networks, NAVINFO public transit data for Nanjing and Amap mobility datasets. Flood hazard maps for 100-year return periods informed the scenarios, with models validated against empirical travel patterns. The Nanjing, Hamburg and Los Angeles simulation models are publicly available on GitHub. More information: Chunhong Li et al, Adaptive capacity for multimodal transport network resilience to extreme floods, Nature Sustainability (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-025-01575-z Journal information: Nature Sustainability Empowering the Next Generation of Hotel and Culinary Professionals SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ninety-seven students pursuing degrees in hotel management, tourism and culinary arts at 21 California colleges and universities have been awarded $170,000 in scholarships by the California Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Foundation. CHLAHF supports the education and professional development of students who commit to pursuing a career in hospitality. This year, the Foundation received a record number of applicants and was honored to provide scholarships to 35 more students than the previous year. "These students have the power to shape the future of the hospitality industry in bold and innovative ways," said Michael Pace, Chair of CHLAHF and General Manager of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel in San Francisco. "What excites me most about our scholarship program is that it allows us to support and inspire a passionate, talented group of future leaders to keep pushing forward in their pursuit of careers in hospitality." Recipients will be honored at the 2025 Scholarship Awards Gala on October 23, 2025, at The Argonaut Hotel in San Francisco. We invite all hospitality professionals to join us and support our current and future scholarship recipients. This year's schools with the highest number of scholarship recipients are: San Diego State University : 32 recipients : 32 recipients California State Polytechnic University, Pomona : 14 recipients : 14 recipients California State University, Monterey Bay : 12 recipients : 12 recipients California State University, Long Beach : 10 recipients : 10 recipients University of San Francisco : 5 recipients We are grateful to the following hotel brands for their continued support over the past 15 years: Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Marriott, Handlery Hotels, and others. About the California Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Foundation CHLAHF is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and research in support of industry employees and hospitality students. Our aim is to raise the profile and promote excellence in the California hospitality industry. Learn more about how you can support the CHLA Hospitality Foundation at www.chlafoundation.org. Contact: Jesse Geremia 916.554.2660 [email protected] SOURCE California Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Foundation 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: Warning sign at Imperial Beach, California. Credit: Erik Jepsen/UC San Diego Scientists at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography present a new tool the public can use to understand sewage contamination levels at beaches from Coronado to Playas de Tijuana as well as potential risks of swimmer illness. The Pathogen Forecast Model hosted by the Southern California Coastal Ocean Observing System (SCCOOS) at Scripps shows the forecasted levels of sewage in the coastal ocean in the San Diego-Tijuana border region together with illness risk for ocean swimming. The Pathogen Forecast Model website provides detailed forecasts for Playas Tijuana, Imperial Beach, Silver Strand State Park, and Coronado of shoreline sewage concentration as well as estimated risk of illness for ocean swimmers. The aim is to enable families to make informed decisions about whether to take their kids to the beach on the weekend. Sample animation recorded from the model website. Credit: University of California - San Diego "The Pathogen Forecast Model has considerable skill in predicting five days into the future the beach water quality measurements made by San Diego County from Imperial Beach to Coronado," said Scripps oceanographer Falk Feddersen, the project lead. "Of course, just like with weather forecasts, the model has errors. It is still experimental." Feddersen and coastal physical oceanographer Sarah Giddings have led research on pollution transport in the region for several years. In 2015, an experiment in which researchers released pink dye to reveal the movement of nearshore currents in Imperial Beach provided an illustration of pollution transport up the coast. In 2021, the team developed a coastal ocean, pathogen and human-illness model for the border region that included sewage sources from the Tijuana River and the San Antonio de los Buenos (SAB) treatment plant in Punta Bandera. The new Pathogen Forecast Model further advances that research into a predictive tool that takes in data on winds, tides, offshore currents, waves, and river flow to estimate ocean transport and compute risk. The public tool responds to a longstanding problem of raw sewage from Mexico circulating in the coastal ocean on both sides of the border. Ocean currents often transport sewage flows parallel to the coast northward to San Diego beaches leading to closures and impacts to the community's physical and mental health. Other research from UC San Diego scientists suggests that pathogens and chemicals sourced to the sewage can become airborne even several miles inland. The model was developed with funding from the state of California to protect public health while officials seek ways to address the sewage problem at its source. 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. "I applaud the progress made by Scripps Institution of Oceanography to develop a model capable of predicting swimmer illness risk up to five days in advance," said Calif. State Senator Steve Padilla, whose district includes the entire CaliforniaMexico border. "Communities like Imperial Beach have been at the epicenter of this crisis for a generation, and they deserve real, science-driven solutions. "This tool gives critical, science-based insight to inform timely beach management decisions, protect the health of beachgoers and help minimize impacts to local businesses. I look forward to future model developments, which will only help restore confidence in the safety of our coastline as we work to stop this public health crisis at its source." Additional funds for expansion of this tool were included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce Justice Science and Related Agencies Appropriations bill approved by the House Appropriations Subcommittee last week. The full Committee is scheduled to consider the bill on Thursday. "I was pleased to see the committee include this Community Project Funding request, as it will give our regional partners the data they need to make critical, science-driven decisions," said U.S. Representative Scott Peters (CA-50). "I've worked hard to secure federal investments in the infrastructure projects needed to stop the cross-border sewage crisis at its source and end the devastation of our environmental and public health. As those projects move forward, this predictive model will be essential to monitor conditions during construction and ensure those solutions are working as intended upon completion." The researchers emphasize this is not a beach advisory or closure tool. Official beach water quality conditions are reported daily by the County of San Diego Beach & Bay Water Quality Monitoring Program. Advisories, warnings, and closures are updated daily and can be found at County of San Diego Beach Water Quality. The County of San Diego also maintains the Tijuana River Valley Sewage Crisis Environmental Dashboard. "The Pathogen Forecast Model is a forecast of the shoreline sewage concentration and our five-day forecast has good correlation with the County's sampling data," added Feddersen. The research team plans to work to continually improve the Pathogen Forecast Model. In the next phase planned for summer 2026, it will contain a validated forecast of the pathogen norovirus for improved swimmer illness risk forecasts, Feddersen said. Additional principal investigators in the project are Jeff Bowman, Andrew Barton, Uwe Send, Bruce Cornuelle, Ganesh Gopalakrishnan and Clarissa Anderson. 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 Decades of gold mining at Giant Mine in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, has left a toxic legacy: 237,000 tons of arsenic trioxide dust stored in underground chambers. As a multi-billion government remediation effort to clean up the mine site and secure the underground arsenic ramps up, the Canadian government is promising to deal with the mine's disastrous consequences for local Indigenous communities. In March, the minister for Crown-Indigenous relations appointed a ministerial special representative, Murray Rankin, to investigate how historic mining affected the treaty rights of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. We document this history in our forthcoming book, "The Price of Gold: Mining, Pollution, and Resistance in Yellowknife," exposing how colonialism, corporate greed and lax regulation led to widespread air and water pollution, particularly affecting Tatsot'ne (Yellowknives Dene) communities. We also highlight the struggle for pollution controls and public health led by Tatsot'ne and their allies, including mine workers. Sickness from Giant Mine The story begins when prospectors discovered a rich gold ore body at Giant Mine in the 1930s. While mining started at the nearby Con Mine in the late 1930s, Giant's development was interrupted by the Second World War. Only with new investment and the lifting of wartime labor restrictions in 1948 did Giant Mine start production. Mining at Giant was a challenge. Much of the gold was locked within arsenopyrite formations, and to get at it, workers needed to crush, then roast the gold ore at very high temperatures. This burned off the arsenic in the ore before using cyanide treatment to extract gold. One byproduct of this process was thousands of tons per day of arsenic trioxide, sent up a smokestack into the local environment. In addition to being acutely toxic, arsenic trioxide is also linked to lung and skin cancers, though scientific understanding of environmental exposures was inconclusive at the time. Archival records show that federal public health officials recommended the roaster be shut down until arsenic emissions could be controlled. But the company and federal mining regulators dragged their feet, fearing the economic impact. The result, in 1951, was the poisoning death of at least one Dene child on Latham Island (now Ndilo), near the mine; his family was compensated a paltry $750. Many Dene in Ndilo relied on snow melt for drinking water, and there were reports of widespread sickness in the community. Local animals, including dairy cattle and sled dogs, also became sick and died. Only after this tragedy did the federal government force the company to implement pollution controls. The control system was not terribly effective at first, though as it improved, arsenic emissions dropped dramatically from nearly 12,000 pounds per day to around 115 pounds per day in 1959. Thousands of tons of arsenic captured through this process was collected and stored in mined-out chambers underground. 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. Fighting back against pollution Throughout the 1960s, public health officials continually downplayed concerns about arsenic exposure in Yellowknife, whether via drinking water or on local vegetables. By the 1970s, however, latent public health concerns over arsenic exposure in Yellowknife became a major national media story. It began with a CBC Radio "As it Happens" episode in 1975 that unearthed an unreleased government report documenting widespread, chronic arsenic exposure in the city. Facing accusations of a cover-up, the federal government dismissed health concerns even as it set up a local study group to investigate them. Suspicious of government studies and disregard for local health risks, Indigenous communities and workers took matters into their own hands. A remarkable alliance emerged between the Indian Brotherhood of the Northwest Territories and the United Steelworkers of America (the union representing Giant Mine workers) to undertake their own investigations. They conducted hair samplings of Dene children and mine workers the population most exposed to arsenic in the community and submitted them for laboratory analysis. The resulting report accused the federal government of suppressing health information and suggested children and workers were being poisoned. The controversy made national headlines yet again, prompting an independent inquiry by the Canadian Public Health Association. The association's 1978 report somewhat quelled public concern. But environmental and public health advocates in Yellowknife continued their fight for pollution reduction through the 1980s. Giant's toxic afterlife As Giant Mine entered the turbulent final decade of its life, including a violent lockout in 1992, public concern mounted over the growing environmental liabilities. Most urgently, people living in and near Yellowknife began to realize that enough arsenic trioxide had been stored underground over the years to poison every human on the planet four times over. Without constant pumping of groundwater out of the mine, the highly soluble arsenic could seep into local waterways, including Yellowknife Bay. When the company that owned the mine, Royal Oak Mines, went bankrupt in 1999, it left no clear plan for the remediation of this toxic material, and very little money to deal with it. The federal government assumed primary responsibility for the abandoned mine and, in the quarter century since, developed plans to clean up the site and stabilize the arsenic underground by freezing it an approach that will cost more than $4 billion. Public concern and activism by Yellowknives Dene First Nation and other Yellowknifers prompted a highly contested environmental assessment and the creation of an independent oversight body, the Giant Mine Oversight Board in 2015. Under the current remediation strategy, the toxic waste at Giant Mine will require perpetual care, imposing a financial and environmental burden on future generations. The long history of historical injustice resulting from mineral development and pollution around Yellowknife remains unaddressed. In support of calls for an apology and compensation, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation recently published reports that include oral testimony and other evidence of impacts on their health and land in their traditional territory. Hopefully, the Canadian government's appointment of the special representative means the colonial legacy of the mine will finally be addressed. Giant Mine serves as a warning about the current push from governments and industry to ram through development projects without environmental assessments or Indigenous consultations. Extractive projects may generate short-term wealth, but they also compromise the national interest if they saddle the public with enormous costs and long-term consequences. More information: The Price of Gold: Mining, Pollution, and Resistance in Yellowknife (2025). www.mqup.ca/price-of-goldthe-products-9780228026174.php This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. 20 years of Linux on the Desktop (part 4) by Ploum on 2025-07-23 Previously in "20 years of Linux on the Deskop": After contributing to the launch of Ubuntu as the "perfect Linux desktop", Ploum realises that Ubuntu is drifting away from both Debian and GNOME. In the meantime, mobile computing threatens to make the desktop irrelevant. The big desktop schism The fragmentation of the Ubuntu/GNOME communities became all too apparent when, in 2010, Mark Shuttleworth announced during the Ubuntu-summit that Ubuntu would drop GNOME in favour of its own in-house and secretly developed desktop: Unity. I was in the audience. I remember shaking my head in disbelief while Mark was talking on stage, just a few metres from me. Working at the time in the automotive industry, I had heard rumours that Canonical was secretly talking with BMW to put Ubuntu in their cars and that there was a need for a new touchscreen interface in Ubuntu. Mark hoped to make an interface that would be the same on computers and touchscreens. Hence the name: "Unity". It made sense but I was not happy. The GNOME community was, at the time, in great agitation about the future. Some thought that GNOME was looking boring. That there was no clear sense of direction except minor improvements. In 2006, the German Linux Company SUSE had signed a patent agreement with Microsoft covering patents related to many Windows 95 concepts like the taskbar, the tray, the startmenu. SUSE was the biggest contributor to KDE and the agreement was covering the project. But Red Hat and GNOME refused to sign that agreement, meaning that Microsoft suing the GNOME project was now plausible. An experiment of an alternative desktop breaking all Windows 95 concepts was done in JavaScript: GNOME-shell. A JavaScript desktop? Seriously? Yeah, it was cool for screenshots but it was slow and barely usable. It was an experiment, nothing else. But theres a rule in the software world: nobody will ever end an experiment. An experiment will always grow until it becomes too big to cancel and becomes its own project. Providing the GNOME desktop to millions of users, Mark Shuttleworth was rightly concerned about the future of GNOME. Instead of trying to fix GNOME, he decided to abandon it. That was the end of Ubuntu as Debian+GNOME. What concerned me was that Ubuntu was using more and more closed products. Products that were either proprietary, developed behind closed doors or, at the very least, were totally controlled by Canonical people. In 2006, I had submitted a Summer of Code project to build a GTK interface to Ubuntus new bug tracker: Launchpad. Launchpad was an in-house project which looked like it was based on the Python CMS Plone and I had some experience with it. During that summer, I realised that Launchpad was, in fact, proprietary and had no API. To my surprise, there was no way I could get the source code of Launchpad. Naively, I had thought that everything Ubuntu was doing would be free software. Asking the dev team, I was promised Launchpad would become free "later". I could not understand why Canonical people were not building it in the open. I still managed to build "Conseil" by doing web scraping but it broke with every single change done internally by the Launchpad team. As a side note, the name "Conseil" was inspired by the book "20.000 leagues under the sea", by Jules Vernes, a book I had downloaded from the Gutenberg project and that I was reading on my Nokia 770. The device was my first e-reader and Ive read tenths of public domain books on it. This was made possible thanks to the power of opensource: FBreader, a very good epub reading software, had been easily ported to the N770 and was easily installable. I tried to maintain Conseil for a few months before giving up. It was my first realisation that Canonical was not 100% open source. Even technically free software was developed behind closed doors or, at the very least, with tight control over the community. This included Launchpad, Bzr, Upstard, Unity and later Mir. The worse offender would later be Snap. To Mark Shuttleworths credit, it should be noted that, most of the time, they were really trying to fix core issues with Linuxs ecosystem. In retrospective, it looks easy to see those moves as "bad". But, in reality, Canonical had a strong vision and keeping control was easier than to do everything in the open. Bzr was launched before git existed (by a few days). Upstard was created before Systemd. Those decisions made sense at the time. Even the move to Unity would later prove to be very strategical as, in 2012, GNOME would suddenly depend on Systemd, which was explicitly developed as a competitor to Upstart. Ubuntu would concede defeat in 2015 by replacing Upstart with Systemd and in 2018 by reinstating GNOME as the default desktop. But those were not a given in 2010. But even with the benefit of doubt, Canonical would sometimes cross huge red lines, like that time where Unity came bundled with some Amazon advertisement, tracking you on your own desktop. This was, of course, not really well received. The end of Maemo: when incompetence is not enough, be malevolent At the same time in the nascent mobile world, Nokia was not the only one suffering from the growing Apple/Google duopoly. Microsoft was going nowhere with its own mobile operating system, WindowsCE and running like a headless chicken. The director of the "Business division" of Microsoft, a guy named Stephen Elop, signed a contract with Nokia to develop some Microsoft Office feature on Symbian. This looked like an anecdotical side business until, a few months after that contract, in September 2010, Elop leaves Microsoft to become CEO of Nokia. This was important news to me because, at 2010s GUADEC (GNOMEs annual conference) in Den Haag, I had met a small tribe of free software hackers called Lanedo. After a few nice conversations, I was excited to be offered a position in the team. In my mind at the time, I would work on GNOME technologies full-time while being less and less active in the Ubuntu world! I had chosen my side: I would be a GNOME guy. I was myself more and more invested in GNOME, selling GNOME t-shirts at FOSDEM and developing "Getting Things GNOME!", a software that would later become quite popular. Joining Lanedo without managing to land a job at Canonical (despite several tries) was the confirmation that my love affair with Ubuntu had to be ended. In 2010, Lanedo biggest customer was, by far, Nokia. I had been hired to work on Maemo (or maybe Meego? This was unclear). We were not thrilled to see an ex-Microsoft executive take the reins of Nokia. As we feared, one of Elops first actions as CEO of Nokia was to kill Maemo in an infamous "burning platform" memo. Elop is a Microsoft man and hates anything that looks like free software. In fact, like a good manager, he hates everything technical. It is all the fault of the developers which are not "bringing their innovation to the market fast enough". Sadly, nobody highlighted the paradox that "bringing to the market" had never been the job of the developers. Elops impact on the Nokia company is huge and nearly immediate: the stock is in free fall. One Nokia developer posted on Twitter: "Developers are blamed because they did what management asked them to do". But, sometimes, management even undid the work of the developers. The Meego team at Nokia was planning a party for the release of their first mass-produced phone, the N8. While popping Champaign during the public announcement of the N8 release, the whole team learned that the phone had eventually been shipped with Symbian. Nobody had informed the team. Elop had been CEO for less than a week and Nokia was in total chaos. But Stephen Elop is your typical "successful CEO". "Successful" like in inheriting one of the biggest and most successful mobile phone makers and, in a couple of years, turning it into ashes. You cant invent such "success". During Elop's tenure, Nokia's stock price dropped 62%, their mobile phone market share was halved, their smartphone market share fell from 33% to 3%, and the company suffered a cumulative 4.9 billion loss It should be noted that, against all odds, the Meego powered Nokia N9, which succeeded to the N8, was a success and was giving true hope of Meego competing with Android/iOS. N9 was considered a "flagship" and it showed. At Lanedo, we had discussed having an N9 bought by the company for each employee so we could "eat our own dog food" (something which was done at Collabora). But Elop announcement was clearly underderstood as the killing of Meego/Maemo and Symbian to leave room to Windows Phone! The Nokia N9 was available in multiple colours (picture by Bytearray render on Wikimedia) Well, Elop promised that, despite moving to Windows Phone, Nokia would release one Meego phone every year. I dont remember if anyone bought that lie. We could not really believe that all those years of work would be killed just when the success of the N9 proved that we did it right. But that was it. The N9 was the first and the last of its kind. Ironically, the very first Windows Phone, the Lumia 800, will basically be the N9 with Windows Phone replacing Meego. And it would receive worse reviews that the N9. At that moment, one question is on everybody's lips: is Stephen Elop such a bad CEO or is he destroying Nokia on purpose? Is it typical management incompetence or malevolence? Or both? The answer comes when Microsoft, Elops previous employer, bought Nokia for a fraction of the price it would have paid if Elop hasnt been CEO. Its hard to argue that this was not premeditated: Elop managed to discredit and kill every software-related project Nokia had ever done. That way, Nokia could be sold as a pure hardware maker to Microsoft, without being encumbered by a software culture which was too distant from Microsoft. And Elop goes back to his old employer as a richer man, receiving a huge bonus for having tanked a company. But remember dear MBA students, hes a "very successful manager", you should aspire to become like him. Les voies du capitalisme sont impenetrables. As foolish as it sounds, this is what the situation was: the biggest historical phone maker in the world merged with the biggest historical software maker. Vic Gundotra, head of the Google+ social network, posted: "Two turkeys dont make an eagle." But one thing was clear: Microsoft was entering the mobile computing market because everything else was suddenly irrelevant. Every business eyes were pointed towards mobile computing where, ironically, Debian+GNOME had been a precursor. Just when it looked like Ubuntu managed to make Linux relevant on the desktop, nobody cared about the desktop anymore. How could Mark Shuttleworth makes Ubuntu relevant in that new world? (to be continued) Subscribe by email or by rss to get the next episodes of "20 years of Linux on the Desktop". Im currently turning this story into a book. Im looking for an agent or a publisher interested to work with me on this book and on an English translation of "Bikepunk", my new post-apocalyptic-cyclist typewritten novel which sold out in three weeks in France and Belgium. ATLANTA, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The CDC Foundation today announced the recipients of two esteemed awards recognizing outstanding contributions to public health and health education. This year's James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health award recipient is Christopher J.L. Murray, MD, DPhil, and the 2026 Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award recipient is Sandro Galea, MD, DrPH. Both Murray and Galea were chosen by the Fries Awards Selection Jury, a panel made up of health and public health luminaries. This years James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health award recipient is Christopher J.L. Murray, MD, DPhil, and the 2026 Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award recipient is Sandro Galea, MD, DrPH. The James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health recognizes an outstanding leader who has done the most to improve health for the greatest number of people. Murray is honored for his pioneering work as a physician and health economist, which has transformed public health by developing new analytic methods for identifying and prioritizing health issues, resulting in more impactful policies and interventions globally. The Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award recognizes a distinguished leader who makes significant contributions to health education and health promotion through program development or delivery, policy, advocacy or research. Galea is recognized for epitomizing how a public health academician can communicate widely and effectively, by reaching out through multiple and powerful channels. "Through their visionary work, Drs. Murray and Galea have set powerful examples of innovation and dedication that the Fries Awards are proud to recognize," said Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation. "Dr. Murray's pioneering efforts to measure and analyze the global burden of disease have fundamentally advanced how health challenges are understood and addressed worldwide. Dr. Galea's leadership and scholarship in population health have illuminated the social and structural factors that shape health outcomes. Their contributions have improved health and well-being for communities across the globe." Murray is a pioneering physician and health economist whose work has transformed how the global community measures and understands population health. As the founder and director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, he leads The Global Burden of Disease study, the most comprehensive effort to quantify health loss worldwide. His leadership and vision have enabled policymakers, researchers and advocates to make data-informed decisions to improve health outcomes across nations. Galea is a population health scientist and physician who has advanced public health education and promoted a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that shape health. He is a highly respected author, speaker and researcher whose work bridges social and psychiatric epidemiology with a particular emphasis on how trauma influences mental and behavioral health. He is the inaugural Margaret C. Ryan Dean of the Washington University School of Public Health, the Eugene S. and Constance Kahn Distinguished Professor in Public Health and vice provost for interdisciplinary initiatives. Murray will be honored with the James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health award and receive a monetary award of $100,000 at the American Public Health Association's (APHA) annual meeting taking place in Washington, D.C., November 25, 2025. Galea will be honored with the Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award and receive a monetary award of $50,000 at the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) taking place in Portland, OR, April 2224, 2026. The James F. and Sarah T. Fries Foundation is a nonprofit corporation incorporated in 1991. The mission of the foundation is to identify and honor individuals, organizations or institutions that have made great contributions to the health of the public. The foundation seeks to reward accomplishment rather than promise, practicality rather than theory. The CDC Foundation is honored to partner with the James F. and Sarah T. Fries Foundation, which established and funds the award. The CDC Foundation manages and administers the Fries Foundation's public health award programs, which include the James and Sarah Fries Prize for Improving Health and the Elizabeth Fries Health Education Award. About the CDC Foundation The CDC Foundation helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the public health system save and improve lives by unleashing the power of partnerships to protect the health, safety and security of all communities, everywhere. The CDC Foundation is authorized by Congress to mobilize philanthropic partners, corporations, organizations and individuals to support the critical health protection mission of CDC and the nation's public health. Since 1995, the CDC Foundation has launched more than 1,450 programs aimed at protecting communities across the country from a variety of health threatsfrom chronic disease conditions including cardiovascular disease and cancer, to infectious diseases like malaria and HIV, to emergency responses such as Ebola and Zika. The CDC Foundation is uniquely positioned to advance public health and managed hundreds of programs in the United States and in more than 100 countries last year. Learn more at www.cdcfoundation.org. Follow the CDC Foundation on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X/Twitter and TikTok. SOURCE CDC Foundation Workers in Colorado are 39% more likely to experience heat-related illness from 10 a.m. to noon DENVER, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Colorado heads into the warmer months, bringing an increase in outdoor work and recreational activities, Pinnacol Assurance, the state's largest workers' comp carrier, is launching "The Great Hydr8" campaign to remind workers about the dangers of dehydration and provide actionable steps to stay safe in the heat, including proactively monitoring their hydration levels using a simple yet vital indicator: the color of their urine. This campaign features an eight-level urine color chart, and uses eight heat safety and hydration tips to educate workers and the greater community about the often-underestimated risks of dehydration by providing actionable guidance to stay safer in the heat. Claims data reveals heat-related illness trends According to a new analysis of Pinnacol claims, during the months of May to August, workers are 39% more likely to experience heat-related illness. Incidents leading to claims are 95% more likely between 10 a.m. and noon, spiking at noon. Due to the nature of their work, the following industries and professions face a heightened risk of dehydration: Police officers: Often exposed to the elements for extended periods during patrols, traffic control, and incident response, leading to increased fluid loss Often exposed to the elements for extended periods during patrols, traffic control, and incident response, leading to increased fluid loss Outdoor recreation and tourism staff: Guides, instructors and park employees working in the elements Guides, instructors and park employees working in the elements Education professionals: Those working outdoors or in non-air-conditioned facilities during summer months Those working outdoors or in non-air-conditioned facilities during summer months Firefighters: Subject to extreme heat and heavy physical exertion while wearing protective gear, resulting in rapid dehydration Subject to extreme heat and heavy physical exertion while wearing protective gear, resulting in rapid dehydration Restaurant/fast food staff: Often working in hot environments and with high physical demands "Staying properly hydrated is not just about quenching thirst; it's a fundamental aspect of workplace safety, especially here in Colorado," says Monica Cabrera, Pinnacol's learning safety specialist. "The state's high elevation means thinner air, which can lead to faster dehydration. The intense Colorado sun results in high ultraviolet radiation levels, further stressing the body and increasing the risk of heat-related injuries and illnesses." The Great Hydr8: Your body's hydration indicator in 8 shades Pinnacol's "The Great Hydr8" campaign emphasizes the importance of using urine color as a quick and easy indicator of hydration levels. Pale straw yellow: This is the ideal color and indicates you are likely well hydrated. Keep up your current fluid intake to maintain this healthy level. This is the ideal color and indicates you are likely well hydrated. Keep up your current fluid intake to maintain this healthy level. Light yellow: This is generally acceptable, but be mindful of your activity level and the heat. Increase your fluid intake slightly, especially if you are working intensely or in direct sunlight. This is generally acceptable, but be mindful of your activity level and the heat. Increase your fluid intake slightly, especially if you are working intensely or in direct sunlight. Dark yellow / amber: This is a warning sign that you are likely dehydrated and need to take immediate action. Stop what you are doing, find a cool place, and drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages. Continue to monitor your urine color. This is a warning sign that you are likely dehydrated and need to take immediate action. Stop what you are doing, find a cool place, and drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages. Continue to monitor your urine color. Honey / dark brown: This indicates severe dehydration and requires immediate attention. Seek medical help if you experience other symptoms, such as dizziness, confusion, decreased urination or rapid heartbeat. Actionable guidance for staying safe in the heat Pinnacol urges all workers, especially those in high-risk industries, to follow these proactive steps to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related illnesses: Hydrate early and often: Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Sip water or electrolyte-rich drinks throughout the day. Aim for regular intake, especially before, during and after physical exertion. Note that excessive water intake can be dangerous drink water consistently, but avoid consuming extremely large amounts in a short period. Carry water with you: Make sure you have access to water at all times, especially on job sites or during outdoor activities. Take regular breaks: Schedule short breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces to allow your body to cool down and rehydrate. Wear appropriate clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting and breathable clothing to help your body regulate its temperature. Wear a hat and sunglasses for added protection from the sun. Be aware of peak heat times: Take extra precautions during the hottest parts of the day (typically mid-morning to mid-afternoon). If possible, schedule strenuous tasks for cooler times. Understand the risks of altitude and UV: Be extra diligent about hydration at higher elevations and always use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from intense UV radiation, which can exacerbate heat stress. Know the signs of heat illness: Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache) and heatstroke (high body temperature, confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness), and know what to do if someone experiences them. Seek immediate medical attention for heatstroke. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you are feeling and don't push yourself too hard in the heat. If you feel unwell, stop working and seek help. Pinnacol encourages employers and employees to share this important information so all Coloradans can prioritize hydration. About Pinnacol Pinnacol Assurance is a top-performing provider of workers' compensation insurance. We offer top-rated injured worker care, customized safety solutions, and a comprehensive return-to-work program that helps our members reduce risk and save costs. You can see our investment in the community through our nationally recognized apprenticeship program and Pinnacol Foundation scholarship program . Pinnacol's team members, culture of caring and top-rated services have received numerous awards , affirming our commitment to the people and communities we serve. Learn more at Pinnacol.com . Contact: Liz Johnson Director, Public Relations 720.939.7238 (mobile) [email protected] SOURCE Pinnacol Assurance Gov. Glenn Youngkin says he has a deal for a multibillion-dollar pharmaceutical factory in Virginia, but he doesnt have a final site for the project. With an Aug. 1 deadline looming for President Donald Trumps threat to impose steep tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products, Youngkin appeared in Washington, D.C., on Monday afternoon with executives for British-based AstraZeneca to announce a multibillion-dollar investment in an advanced manufacturing facility somewhere in Virginia. But where? The answer is, they dont know yet. Youngkin spokesman Rob Damschen said Tuesday that the process of selecting a final site for the project is not complete. I know they presented an array of sites to AstraZeneca, Damschen said of the states economic development team. Pam Cheng, executive vice president for global operations at AstraZeneca, didnt have a final answer at the project announcement on Monday. Weve had tremendous support from the state of Virginia so far, and weve got some choices, some great choices, I have to say, Cheng said. So we are in the process of working with the governor ... to make that final decision. So hopefully that should happen shortly. The proposed manufacturing facility in Virginia would be the linchpin of a $50 billion plan that AstraZeneca announced. It also will include new and expanded operations in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, a new research-and-development center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and new investments at sites in California, Indiana and Texas. The company said it expects the five-year plan to create tens of thousands of new, highly skilled direct and indirect jobs across the country powering growth and delivering next-generation medicines for patients in America and worldwide. Trumps tariff deadline The announcement came 11 days before a deadline that Trump set this month to impose tariffs as high as 200% on imported pharmaceutical products. Among those attending the news conference in Washington was Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council. AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot acknowledged that the company, created in 1999 through the merger of British and Swedish companies, is not based in the United States, but he emphasized the investments that it already has made in manufacturing and research facilities here. We happen to be in London, but our heart ... is in this country, Soriot said. The CEO also said that tariffs the Trump administration imposed are accelerating the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companys commitments in the U.S. What I would say is that I totally support and totally understand the need for countries like the United States to want to see products, medicines, serving patients in this country, in manufacturing in this country, Soriot said. Its a question of national security. And so this is a vision that the president and his administration have put out there and a vision that we totally understand, totally support, he said. And the tariffs are accelerating a movement that we would have made in any case. Youngkin, who has six months left in his term with an election looming for his successor, said the proposed project will set the standard for the latest technological advancements in pharmaceutical manufacturing, creating hundreds of highly skilled jobs and helping further strengthen the nations domestic supply chain. Advanced manufacturing is at the heart of Virginias dynamic economy, so I am thrilled that AstraZeneca, one of the worlds leading pharmaceutical companies, plans to make their largest global manufacturing investment here in the Commonwealth, he said. The deal, which Youngkin signed on Monday, has not been reviewed by the Democratic-controlled General Assembly. The governor has not publicly outlined incentives that the state is offering to attract the investment. The agreement and incentive package would have to be reviewed and acted upon by the Major Employment and Investment Project Approval Commission, which includes legislators and members of the administration. Democratic leaders appear to be on board, based on comments that the governors office included in its announcement of the deal. House Appropriations Chairman Luke Torian, D-Prince William, said the project affirms that Virginias years-long commitment to intentional investments in life sciences and advanced manufacturing is working. Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Charlottesville, a senior member of the Senate Finance & Appropriations Committee, called the AstraZeneca project an amazing opportunity for the Commonwealth of Virginia to be home to a world-class manufacturing facility for drugs that will transform our bioscience economy and reshore our critical pharmaceutical supply chain. In telephone interviews on Monday, Torian and Deeds deferred to Youngkin on where the project would be built. Deeds represents a Senate district that includes Albemarle County and Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia and the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology, which UVa expects to open next year in an office park next to Interstate 64. In April, the university hired Mark Esser, an alumnus of the UVa School of Medicine, to lead the Manning Institute as its first chief scientific officer. Previously, Esser served as a vice president of AstraZeneca. Greater Richmond, including Petersburg, has been building a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in recent years. The Alliance for Better Medicine is a collaboration that includes Virginia Commonwealth Universitys Medicines for All, which rebuilds medications with cheaper building blocks; Phlow Corp., which established a national reserve of key drug building blocks and Civica Inc., a nonprofit drug maker planning to sell insulin at a discounted rate. Paul Spicer, a spokesman for the areas pharmaceutical alliance, said Monday: We cant speak to any specific companies or discussions that may or may not be underway, but theres certainly a lot of exciting momentum around advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing in the Richmond-Petersburg region right now. Authorities say tourist drug sales in Riviera Maya line of investigation in murder of PDC taxi drivers Playa del Carmen, Q.R. An investigation into a third missing person continues after the recent finding of three bodies. On Friday, police were alerted to the discovery of three bodies off the Playa del Carmen highway near the municipal border of Puerto Morelos. Two of the three men found were identified as Playa del Carmen taxi drivers reported missing July 17. They were still in uniform when their bodies were found dumped in a green area off the highway the following day. Authorities have since reported that drug dealing has been their main line of investigation. They have also said that three people were reported missing between July 17 and 18. Those three men have been identified as Saul N, Saddan Alexis N and David N. Saul N and Saddan Alexis N were found dead, while David N has not yet been located. Police have identified the third man found dead with Saul N and Saddan Alexis N as Jesus N. According to police, there was no active missing persons report for Jesus N, however, all three were involved in drug sales in the tourist areas of Riviera Maya. In a statement, the State Attorney General (FGE) said during field investigations, a third body was located belonging to Jesus N. No missing person search warrant was issued for the body, but his identity has already been confirmed. According to information obtained during the investigation, Saul N and Alexis N are believed to be linked to the sale and distribution of drugs in the tourist area of the Riviera Maya corridor, an activity that, according to initial investigations, could have led to their disappearance and subsequent homicide. The three were allegedly summoned to a meeting when their whereabouts became unknown. They were deprived of their freedom by members of a criminal group opposed to the one they belonged to. The bodies of the three people located have already been fully identified and returned to their families in accordance with legal protocols, the FGE reported. Police say they are continuing their search for David N, the third person reported missing. Government releases limited commemorative postage stamp dedicated Mexico-Tenochtitlan greatness Mexico City, Mexico The Government of Mexico has launched a commemorative postage stamp Mexico Tenochtitlan. Seven Centuries of Legacy of Greatness. There will be 200,000 stamps released with a QR code with information about the meaning behind the design of the stamp. The announcement for the new stamp was made Wednesday by President Claudia Sheinbaum. Today we are presenting the first postage stamp dedicated to seven centuries of Mexico-Tenochtitlans greatness, she said during her morning press conference. Violeta Giorgina Abreu Gonzalez, the General Director of the Mexican Postal Service (Sepomex), explained that the stamp is a graphic testimony that recalls the paynanis of pre-Hispanic Mexico, messengers of the Mexica empire who held the territory together through words. The 200,000 stamps that begin their journey today celebrate a profound history: the recognition of centuries of a living culture, of paths that have woven identity where communication is not just about transmitting information; its about building community. She indicated that the stamp marks a step in innovation with the inclusion of a QR code to access more information about the seven centuries of Mexico-Tenochtitlans greatness. The political advisor of the General Coordination of Social Communication of the Presidency of the Republic, Alfonso Suarez del Real, explained that the image on the postage stamp commemorates the founding of Mexico-Tenochtitlan. It contains emblematic elements such as the eagle, which represents the sun, the cactus, which emerges from the Heart of Copil, the symbol of the eagle of water and the eagle of fire, which represents war in Nahuatl. Sheinbaum said that the Mexico-Tenochtitlan. Seven Centuries of Legacy of Greatness was released to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the founding of Mexico-Tenochtitlan, a graphic, cultural and symbolic testimony to what is now Mexico City. Quintana Roo first state to sign agreement with newly elected judges Chetumal, Q.R. Quintana Roo became the first state in the country to sign a Collaboration Agreement with the new First Instance judges. The new judges were announced in the recent Judicial Branch elections. Accompanied by Chief Justice Heyden Cebada Rivas of the Superior Court of Justice (TSJ) and the Judicial Council, Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa participated in the start of the Induction Course. The course will be taken by 105 judges as part of a strategy to ensure a more humane, accessible, transparent and truly socially oriented administration of justice. From Cancun, 52 judges will participate along with 28 from Chetumal, 14 from Playa del Carmen and 11 from other municipalities. I am convinced that the best are here. The people were not mistaken in the historic elections for the Judiciary. With this agreement, we will achieve true social justice, stated Governor Mara Lezama. Mara Lezama emphasized that under the leadership of President Sheinbaum, true justice for all will be achieved. She acknowledged her conviction that todays judiciary is strong, solid and close to the people. We are taking a firm step toward transforming this new history. Justice should not be a privilege, it should be a right that everyone can access, she said. Supreme Court Chief Justice Heyden Cebada stated that with this agreement, we are making firm progress in the continuous improvement of justice, which is based on the premise that it is a shared responsibility that requires a systemic vision. This is also fully consistent with the philosophy that governs the harmonious action of the branches of government, which is always oriented toward social justice, shared prosperity and the construction of our perpetual peace. Following the signing of the agreement, a Technical Committee will be created to implement the agreement and work will begin on the design and implementation of comprehensive training and refresher programs for elected and serving judges, through the Judicial University. The Collaboration Agreement to Strengthen the Exercise of the Judicial Function was signed between various institutions in the state of Quintana Roo, including the Executive Branch, the Ministry of Government (SEGOB), the Ministry of Women (SEMUJERES), the System for the Comprehensive Development of the Family (DIF Quintana Roo System), the Autonomous University of Quintana Roo (UAQROO), and the Judiciary. This teamwork seeks to help make legal processes faster, clearer, and fairer so that justice is more readily available to people. LOS ANGELES, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A Los Angeles Superior Court judge today finalized a ruling that allows Consumer Watchdog's lawsuit to proceed against Insurance Commissioner Lara and the Department of Insurance's controversial plan permitting insurance companies to impose wildfire-related surcharges on homeowners and businesseseven though those costs are supposed to be shared among insurersnot policyholdersunder state law. The court rejected the Department's attempt to throw out the core of the lawsuit, finding that Consumer Watchdog may proceed with its claim that the pass-through surcharges violate California's FAIR Plan statutes. The FAIR Plan is California's last-resort fire insurance program, and the law requires insurers to share costs equallynot shift them to consumers. "This is a significant procedural victory that ensures the Commissioner's arrangement, which could shift hundreds of millions of dollars from homeowners to insurers will get the scrutiny it deserves," said William Pletcher, Consumer Watchdog's Director of Litigation. "California consumers should not be forced to subsidize insurance companies when the law makes clear the amounts must be paid by insurers, not policyholders." Consumer Watchdog filed suit in April after the Department issued a pair of bulletins authorizing insurers to recover FAIR Plan assessments through "temporary supplemental fees" on policyholdersfees that were never authorized by the Legislature and were adopted without the transparency or public input required by law. The ruling allows Consumer Watchdog to move forward with the part of its lawsuit alleging that these pass-throughs conflict directly with the governing statutes, which require insurersnot policyholdersto cover FAIR Plan costs collectively and proportionally. "This ruling means the Commissioner's legally unsupported surcharge plan will now be tested in court," said Ryan Mellino, who argued the case for Consumer Watchdog. "The law doesn't allow insurers to profit from the FAIR Plan while pushing their losses onto the people they're supposed to insure. This fight is just beginningand we intend to prove in court that the Commissioner's plan isn't just unlawful, it's a betrayal of the very consumers he's supposed to protect." Although the court dismissed two other procedural claims, it held that the remaining claimchallenging the legality of the pass-throughs themselvesraises serious legal questions that must be heard. This case follows a broader trend of significant regulatory concessions by the Insurance Commissioner to the insurance industry, and it raises critical questions about the rule of law, fairness, and the affordability of home insurance in California. For background on the lawsuit, visit: Consumer Watchdog Sues to Stop Hundreds of Millions of Dollars in Unjustified Surcharges from Being Imposed on California Homeowners Consumer Watchdog sued the California Department of Insurance and Commissioner Ricardo Lara to protect California homeowners from hundreds of millions in surcharges that could soon appear on their insurance bills. Ryan Mellino Consumer Watchdog SOURCE Consumer Watchdog How to Do It is Slates sex advice column. Have a question? Send it to Jessica and Rich here. Its anonymous! Dear How to Do It, My wife is currently seven months pregnant. Ever since she began to show, Ive lost interest in having sex with her, which is increasingly frustrating to her since, for some reason, shes hornier now than she has been in years. I hate myself for thinking this way, but the prospect of doing it with her at this point just weirds me out. The baby is literally RIGHT THERE, and thats all I can think about. Is it fair for me to turn her down until after the baby is born, or is this something I need to get over? The Bump Is Impossible to Ignore Dear the Bump Is Impossible to Ignore, The short version is that its fair for you to have boundarieswhatever they may beand, while its worth trying to get over your reaction, that might not be possible. If youre worried about harming the baby physically, know that both the Mayo Clinic and Englands National Health Service say its perfectly fine to have sex unless a doctor or midwife has advised against it due to complications. If youre concerned about the baby being psychologically traumatized in some way, know that there is no scientific research indicating that this happens. Do ask your wifes obstetrician to explain the relevant facts to you and allow for any questions you have. Oftentimes, knowledge can help us reframe our thinking and even feelings, and I am almost certain that the doctor has fielded concerns similar to yours on many previous occasions. If youre generally squicked out for other reasons, its still worth talking to the obstetricianwhile some spouses are neutral toward or even turned on by the physical changes associated with pregnancy, many go through something similar to what youre describing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if sex is absolutely out of the question for you for the duration of her pregnancy, make an effort to maintain other forms of physical intimacy. Take the time to think back on how the two of you have navigated less-than-ideal situations in the past. Stay on the same team. Meanwhile, consider what your boundaries are right now, what kinds of sexual interactions you might be comfortable with at this time, and how those activities might overlap with what your wife enjoys. Is oral sex with no penetration a possible compromise? Are you open to holding her while she masturbates? What about shared verbalized fantasies? Get creative, and do so in the context of knowing that her responses may be different at this time than they were previouslyso, if theres something within your boundaries that wasnt appealing to her before her pregnancy, present it again and see what her reaction is now. Advertisement Do keep in mind that your wife will need several weeks to heal after giving birth, and that both of you will be dedicating a lot of time and energy to infant care in the coming months. So, make sure to maintain empathy for your wife once youre comfortable returning to sexual intimacy after the baby arrivesshe might not be ready yet. Get sex advicesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear How to Do It, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to How to Do It following up) Submit Dear How to Do It, Im an 18-year-old assigned female at birth person with a sort of a timeless question: What are some tips for making masturbation more enjoyable? Ive always been able to climax through clitoral stimulation, but Ive been getting more interested in vaginal penetration. The problem is, I cant get it to work out. No matter what I do, I run into two roadblocks: It always kind of hurts. At best, its a numb feeling, like somethings in there but not pleasing. And I think I might have something of a small vagina. I can only ever fit one finger at a time in there, and I cant even begin to imagine using a toy without burning pain. (Though Id like to try at least once). Self Playmate Advertisement Advertisement Dear Self Playmate, There are two main ways to increase pleasure from clitoral stimulation: slow down and add vibration. Slowing down can look like doing some breathing exercises to focus your mind before you start, engaging with other parts of your body before moving to your clitoris, and paying purposeful attention to all of the little sensations youre experiencing along the way. Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens The Explorers Guide to Planet Orgasm is a fantastic roadmap for this. Advertisement Advertisement The different kinds of vibration you could add can be broken down into three categories: pinpoint (like a lipstick vibe), big thumper (the legendary Magic Wand), and sonic stimulator (such as the Satisfyer). Think about what you enjoy now. If you prefer a focused sensation and tend to use one finger to stimulate yourself, lipstick vibes are your best bet. If you prefer a broader feeling, try the big thumper category first. And if you like your whole clit stimulated but prefer the sensation focused only on your clit, go for the sonic types. If youve got a local sex shop nearby that markets itself as sex positive, theyll probably have staff who can walk you through their offerings and help you make a choice that fits with your preferences and budget. Its ideal to see the tester products, hear the sound quality, and get a feel for the textures. Failing that, friend of the column Kate Sloan has a great review page here, and you can order something online from many shops. Advertisement The fact that your vagina is tighter than most peoples, combined with penetration always involving some amount of pain, indicates that a visit to the gynecologist is in order. They can evaluate whether youre experiencing vulvodynia (a type of long-term pain or discomfort around the outer part of the vulva) or other genital pain issues, and, if so, may be able to address the cause. Advertisement Send Us Your Questions About the Workplace! The columnists behind our new advice column, Good Job, want to help you navigate your social dynamics at work. Does your colleague constantly bug you after hours? Has an ill-advised work romance gone awry? Ask us your question here! Dear How to Do It, My husband and I are new to BDSM, and this is probably a dumb question, but are there set time limits for how long a scene is supposed to last? Newbie Advertisement Dear Newbie, Generally speaking, there are no set time limits. You absolutely do want to set aside enough time afterward to reset yourselves and process anything that came up during the scene. If youre playing with physically demanding practices like restraint or stress positions, youll want to err on the side of shorter sessions as youre both learning and getting comfortable with safety procedures. But theres no minimum requirement. Since that was such a simple and short answer, Im going to add some things that you didnt ask about. Remember that either of youdom or subcan use the safeword for any reason at any time, and that this can result in a pause or a full stop to the scene. There should never be shame in saying, Im done for now. Go slowly with each other and check in regularly, during scenes and as you learn more about BDSM and explore new territory. Attend local classes and meetups to broaden your understanding and your social network. Friends of the column 7DaysofDomination have a large library of online classes which, while largely meant for professionals, include subjects like Rope for the Impatient and Smothering. Throughout your journey, use your common sense. Everything you do together should be some kind of funeven if its the fun found in extreme yet consensual discomfortand your collective emotional safety is far more important than finishing any particular scenario youve set out to create. Enjoy. Jessica Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More Advice From Slate I am a 34-year-old woman and have been with the same great guy for almost a decade, married six years. He was my first long-term relationship and my first longstanding sexual partner. I have been on the small end of plus-sized since puberty and suffered from crippling body dysmorphia through my teens and 20s. I was convinced that men wouldnt find me attractive. As a result, I felt in my 20s as though any sexual situation I found myself in was akin to a charity case on the part of the guy, and rarely stuck up for myself or explored what I enjoyed sexually. Fast forward 10 years, and I feel wildly different about myself. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. The late city planner Alexander Garvin used to tell his students at Yale about the genius of Frederick Law Olmsteds Central Park Mall. With its canopy of interlocking elms, this promenade kept New Yorkers cool in the summer, but let them bask in the winter sun during the colder months. Olmsteds genius, perhaps, but mostly the genius of deciduous trees, whose seasonal shade is perfectly aligned with the temperature preferences of the humans (and other animals) beneath. So why, as the United States bakes under another summer of heat waves driven by climate change, are they so few and far between on the streets of our cities? A National Shade Map, released last week by UCLA and the nonprofit American Forests, lets you explore some of the shade disparities between cities and neighborhoods on the summer solstice. Shading our sunniest neighborhoods would require planting 30 million trees. We are confronting a serious shade shortage. Much of it is by design. Trees have been banished from our roadways as just another immovable fixed object that poses a danger to drivers and obscures their sight lines. Canopies and awnings are subject to onerous permitting rules. Buildings have been extensively regulated to keep shade off the street. Unsurprisingly, the absence of shade maps neatly onto just about every other index of socioeconomic and racial division, and the temperature can vary by 30 degrees between sunny and shady parts of town. In a new book, Shade, Sam Bloch makes the case for rethinking our relationship with this forgotten natural resource. The most controversial piece of Blochs argument is that cities should embrace the shade cast by tall buildings. Skyscrapers are something like the opposite of Manhattans elms: They cast the most shade at the coolest hours of the day and year. A new shade layer on American Forests Tree Equity Map illustrates this phenomenon: At noon, almost all urban shade comes from trees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as the afternoon goes on, tall buildings provide relief as well. An extreme example of this phenomenon can be seen in Paris, where narrow streets and six-story buildings make the streets so shady theres a map to help Parisians find a terrasse in the sun. Shade-first city planning would upend more than a century of conventional wisdom about zoning. The early embrace of sunshine as an antiseptic, formalized in New Yorks wedding cake towers that were required to step back gradually from the street, soon morphed into a generalized opposition to tall buildings. Shadow studies have killed tall buildings in San Francisco and New York. But more pernicious are all the local design guidelines that eschew sophisticated sun-path analyses for simple street widthtobuilding height ratios, regardless of where the sun is. When I spoke to him this week, Bloch pointed to Phoenix as a place that is taking shade seriously. In November, the city announced a $60 million investment in fulfilling the goals from a Shade Master Plan, which calls for trees and shade structures to be built around town. Advertisement Few cities have been as focused on the benefits of shade as Los Angeles, where shade has been a popular topic at City Hall for the better part of a decade. There is not much to show for it, however. The great Sombrita debacle of 2023, in which Los Angeles held an ill-advised press conference to debut a bus-stop parasol the size of a skateboard, revealed how bureaucratic infighting made it hard to shade even a few square feet of sidewalk. Alissa Walker, whose newsletter Torched chronicles the efforts to heat-proof the 2028 Summer Olympics, wrote recently that she tried to get a few parkway trees planted in the empty wells around our baked-asphalt elementary schoolyard, only to have the city, a local tree-planting nonprofit, and LAUSD all pointing fingers at each other like the Spiderman meme (and theyre still not planted!). Advertisement Advertisement The issue is so emotional that when a homeless man calling himself an arborist cut down a dozen trees in downtown Los Angeles this spring, the act prompted a statement from Mayor Karen Bass, who called it beyond comprehension. The man faces more than six years in prison. Advertisement Edith de Guzman and Monica Dean recently launched Shade LA, an organization that provides tools and resources to help Angelenos get their sunny city on a real program of tree planting. De Guzman, who also curated an art show called Roots of Cool about trees, noted that Los Angeles seems to actually shrink during the hotter months, as if recoiling from the sun. Its time to think about shade as civic infrastructure that should get a budget line item like roads and bridges, she told me. Related From Slate Climate Changes Heat Waves Will Particularly Threaten Minorities and the Poor Read More Whats stopping us from building a shadier world? In warm-weather cities, the obstacles are prosaic. One is money. Especially in the arid Southwest, street trees require significant care to survive until their roots can reach water underground. Far from gearing up to spend more money on trees, L.A. is facing a billion-dollar budget deficit, and Donald Trumps Cabinet is clawing back money for any projects related to climate or equity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rules might be easier to address. You cant plant a tree within 45 feet of an intersection in Los Angeles, for example, and there are other rules concerning a trees distance to driveways, telephone poles, and streetlights. Every project we work on seems to have a protracted process of determining where [trees] can be placed to dodge other objects in the public way, the architect Brian Lane wrote in 2022. Half of what we (and our landscape architects) think is reasonable doesnt end up working. There is literally so much urban junk (light poles, utilities, parking meters, driveways, etc) in the public way that it precludes the tree-lined avenues communities want and City Planners endorse. A recent University of Southern California study found that loosening the citys tree placement guidelines would increase potential tree density by as much as 26 percent. Planting the trees takes time, but the regulations can be changed tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement In many northern climes, the public is still on the side of the sun, even if the winters arent as cold as they used to be. Perhaps we should also rethink our metaphorical invocation of sunlight (good) and shadow (bad). Laura Hartman, a professor of environmental studies at Roanoke College, recently developed a Bible study on urban heat that draws attention to moments of darkness in scripture, such as the description of God in the book of Isaiah as a shade from the heat. These passages remind us that too much sun can be harmful, and that safety and comfort are to be found in the darker, shadier places, she writes. God may have separated the light from the dark in Genesis 1, but God declared them both to be good. BALTIMORE, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, announced today that Roberto Machado, MD, Chief of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep, and Occupational Medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine, has been appointed the new Chair of the Department of Medicine, the largest department at UMSOM with more than 400 full-time faculty members and 12 divisions. He will also serve as the Physician-In-Chief at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dr. Machado will assume his new position in November and will be invested as the Theodore E. Woodward Chair of Medicine. He currently serves as the Dr. Calvin H. English Professor of Medicine at Indiana University, and has received more than $20.5 million in total funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for his research on pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary complications of sickle cell disease. Highly Accomplished Researcher and Leader His research has contributed to the discovery of pulmonary hypertension as a major risk factor for death in adult patients with sickle cell disease. He has also conducted pivotal studies that furthered the understanding of pulmonary arterial hypertension and how sphingolipid metabolic pathways contribute to the condition. "Dr. Machado brings a rare combination of scientific expertise, clinical leadership, and a long-standing commitment to mentorship and education," said Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, Vice President for Medical Affairs at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor and Dean. "His experience leading complex clinical operations at a major academic medical center will be invaluable as he advances the Department of Medicine --elevating its research impact, enhancing clinical excellence, and shaping the future of academic medicine at the School of Medicine." Leadership Transition Dr. Machado will succeed Dr. Stephen Davis, MBBS, who has served as Chair of the Department since 2009. Under Dr. Davis's leadership, the department expanded and evolved in all its mission areas, increasing its extramural funding to more than $175 million annually and securing renewed funding for the University of Maryland's Clinical and Translational Science Award, and the foundation of the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing. The department's clinical footprint has continued to grow over the past five years with increases in total patient encounters and other important metrics. As part of this transition, Dr. Davis was promoted to Senior Associate Dean for Strategic Partnerships and will also continue to serve as the Director of the General Clinical Research Center and Vice President of Clinical and Translational Science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. "I am extremely grateful to Dr. Davis for his dedicated leadership of the department for the past 16 years and for his passionate commitment to our faculty and school, and for agreeing to serve as Chair over the next few months to ensure a seamless handover to new leadership," said Dean Gladwin. "He will continue to contribute to the important research mission of UMSOM and UMB and will help us form crucial strategic partnerships in his new role." Significant Growth as Division Chief While serving as Division Chief at the Indiana University School of Medicine for the past eight years, Dr. Machado brought significant growth, nearly doubling the size of the division with recruitment of new faculty, which now stands at 92 full-time faculty, up from 55 when he was hired. He also helped increase research funding to $11.4 million per year compared to $3.4 million when he took the position in 2017. Dr. Machado has co-authored more than 170 peer-reviewed papers published in high-impact journals including JAMA, American Journal of Respiratory Care and Critical Care Medicine and CHEST. His studies have investigated such wide-ranging respiratory medicine topics as the use of sildenafil therapy in patients with sickle cell disease and pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary hypertension associated with methamphetamine use, and exhaled breath analysis as a biomarker in chronic lung disease. As a clinical investigator, he has a noteworthy h-index of 51 with more than 11,400 citations for his research publications. The h-index is a metric used to assess the impact and productivity of a researcher's publications, and an index of 51 means a researcher has published an average of 51 papers with each having been cited at least 51 times. Through his well-funded lab, Dr. Machado will continue investigating the development of novel diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers for patients with pulmonary hypertension by using human oligonucleotide microarray platforms, genetics and bioinformatics tools. "I look forward to working alongside such a prolific scientist and educator who is also deeply committed to excellence in clinical care," said Bert W. O'Malley, President and CEO of the University of Maryland Medical Center. "Dr. Machado's leadership will be instrumental as we uncover new ways to deliver on UMMC and UMSOM's shared mission to prepare the next generation of world-class physicians and take on some of the most pressing health care challenges of today and tomorrow." Mentor and Award-Winning Scientist Dedicated to developing the next generation of clinician-scientists, Dr. Machado has mentored more than 20 post-and pre-doctoral trainees and serves as the Principal Investigator on two training grants at Indiana University, including the T32 entitled Physiology and Clinical Mechanisms of Lung Disease via the Combined Adult and Pediatrics Pulmonary Research training program (CAPPRI), which trains exceptional MD and PhD scientists in adult and pediatric pulmonary research, and a T35, which is focused on increasing medical student engagement with biomedical research. For his exceptional contributions to science, he has received the Bench to Bedside Award from the Office of Rare Disease at NIH. He is an elected member of the American Society for Clinical Investigation and has served in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Respiratory Integrative Biology and Translational Research Study Section and the NHLBI Institutional Training Mechanism Review Committee. "It is a tremendous honor to join the University of Maryland community and to serve as Chair of the Department of Medicine at UMSOM," said Dr. Machado. "I look forward to joining this incredibly talented team to help address our generational health challenges in these dynamic times for academic medicine." Dr. Machado earned his medical degree from the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. He completed residency training in internal medicine at the University of Miami where he was named chief resident. He then did a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and at the NIH's Critical Care Medicine Department and the NHLBI. He began his clinical career at the NIH where he spent four years working in the Clinical Center and conducting research at the National Institutes of Digestive Diabetes & Kidney Diseases and at the NHLBI. He then took a tenure track position at the University of Chicago and moved to the University of Illinois at Chicago where he was promoted to associate professor of medicine and became director of the outpatient program in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Issued on behalf of Newswise, online resource for knowledge-based news at www.newswise.com SOURCE University of Maryland School of Medicine Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. The situation has escalated a bit. I got the email just as I boarded my flight to Boston for the second stop on my book tour. Brookline Booksmith was hosting an event for my memoir, Becoming Baba. Its not a polemic. Its about having Muslim parents and then trying yourself to raise Muslim kids in a country that can often be hostile toward people like us. Its written to chronicle what Arab fathers everywhere are feeling, and so my memoir does include a short chapter narrating my heartbreak when I watch footage of the aftermath of Israeli airstrikes and witness lifeless toddlers, pulled from the rubble in Gaza, who resemble my own. How could it not? For a subset of local pro-Israel activists, that was too much. I hadnt known, but the email explained that since announcing my event, the staff at the Boston bookstore were being called on to cancel my reading. When it became apparent the store wouldnt be doing so, the activists began planning a protest. The email asked if I wanted to cancel. But the event was sold out. How could I risk turning away people who were traveling from far away to attend? I replied that I was still coming. That evening in Boston turned out to be one of the strangest, most revealing experiences on my book tour. A group of demonstrators with Israeli flags formed a picket line, forcing anyone who wanted to attend to make their way past them. I wanted to know why the book, which I think of as a gentle, introspective work by a Muslim undergoing the biggest change in his life, warranted this type of opposition. So I showed up early and went out to meet the protesters directly. I wanted to understand why my presence was being treated like a threat. I hoped there was something worth salvaging in that exchange. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outside the bookstore, the tension was immediate. A cluster of protesters waved enormous Israeli flags, the kind youd expect to see atop a government building. A silent counterprotest barely registered, just two Jewish women holding poster boards with images of emaciated Palestinians. Peace marshals from Jewish Voice for Peace stood nearby in neon vests, projecting the calm authority of seasoned school chaperones. Id seen marshals like them at left-wing rallies before, usually working to intervene and de-escalate tension before things spiraled into violence. This time, they were there to protect a business and its patrons, people who just wanted to attend a reading or shop in peace. It was clear I was stepping into a community that had been embattled long before my book arrived. Advertisement Advertisement One store employee, who asked not to be named, told me I was stepping into a much longer local campaign. Its not just you, she said. Its pretty much a community culture war now. I had gotten there a few hours early, hoping to settle in before the crowd arrived. Inside, it was just a really beautiful neighborhood bookstore. A few staffers wore kaffiyehs, a few yarmulkes. The shelves held everything from Palestinian poetry to Alan Dershowitz. Customers browsed quietly; one woman thumbed through travel books, and a man sat on the floor leafing through a paperback in the fiction aisle. I made a beeline for the robust childrens section to pick out something for my kids. Like any beloved indie bookstore, this was a place for exploring, bumping into old friends, or finding a Boston-themed butter dish to buy as a quirky gift. There was virtually everything in stock. Even protesters I had recognized from outside had smiles plastered on as they looked through the options. Advertisement Advertisement Still, the scene playing out in front of the store was impossible to ignore. I stepped outside to approach the protesters. I didnt expect to change anyones mind, but I was genuinely curious: Who were these people who found my memoir so threatening? If they could see me, just a person standing calmly in front of them, maybe we could get past the idea of people as politics. I hoped that by meeting them face-to-face, I could remind them I wasnt just an abstraction to rally against. I was a human being. I was here to promote my book, not to make any passive threats against anyone. Advertisement Advertisement Id closely read the earlier warning from the events coordinator, especially the part about Scott Hayes, a former U.S. Army service member present that day who had been involved in a shooting at a prior demonstration. (His charges are set to be dismissed in September if he follows certain conditions.) He had organized the protest outside and had been the first to arrive, hoisting an enormous American flag and an Israeli flag, wearing a shirt that read: I Am a Zionist. Advertisement I introduced myself. I know who you are, he said, then turned to another protester: Hes the author. Hayes was calm and disarmingly courteous. He said he had nothing against me personally and promised to police the others if anyone got disruptive. Come get me and Ill drag them the hell out, he said, smiling. He claimed that this wasnt a protest, just a pro-Jewish solidarity presence in a heavily Jewish neighborhood. He repeatedly asked the others, each equipped with massive Israeli flags, to keep the sidewalk clear, but the sheer size of the flags made that impossible. Every few minutes, they were heckled by passersby. A woman muttered Free Palestine as she brushed past. Another called them Nazis. One protester shouted at a woman who had arrived to counterprotest: Youre Jewish, but you like Hamas! and Youre supporting people who say Kill all the Jews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli woman tried reasoning with Hayes, telling him she was embarrassed by her country. He shrugged off the civilian death toll and said there was something rotten in Palestinian culture. He told me the protest was in response to my book, as well as my moderator, Mafaz Al-Suwaidan: Shes crossed the line into antisemitism. When pressed, he pointed to her anti-Zionist activism at Harvard University, where she is a Ph.D. candidate. Anti-Zionism, he said, is just a shield for antisemitism. I suggested that it might be possible he was misinterpreting political critique as hate. No, he said. Because I consider the broader context. Then a woman named Pearl approached, asking aggressively if I myself was Palestinian. Before I could answer her, a store staffer tapped me on the shoulder. The event was starting. So I headed inside. The protest outside my event at Brookline Booksmith didnt come out of nowhere. It was the culmination of a yearlong campaign that store leadership had watched unfold in real time. Advertisement According to Lisa Gozashti-Riddle, Brooklines longtime co-owner and manager, the shift began in January 2024, after the store had hosted a virtual poetry fundraiser for Mosab Abu Toha, a celebrated Palestinian poet whose English-language library in Gaza had just been destroyed by Israel. We had 20 poets from around the world, including Mosab, who joined us from Egypt, she told me. They raised more than $30,000 to purchase and ship books to a new library in Gaza upon reconstruction. Advertisement Advertisement After that, the threats started. I was trying to protect my staff while fielding all the calls myself, she said. One caller asked to speak to Hitler. Someone else, in a message, said that Gazans dont read books. They only want guns. To avoid another flare-up, the store moved pro-Palestinian programming online. Advertisement But the scrutiny didnt stop. People started coming in daily to count the number of Palestinian books we had. Ive seen the spreadsheets, the circle graphs, the reports theyve sent out accusing us of bias. Some called the store a hotbed for Islamic fundamentalism and accused it of inculcating the youth. Advertisement Then came Becoming Baba. This wasnt a book we flagged, Gozashti-Riddle said. But the emails came anyway. Some asserted that hosting me was an act of incitement. One message said, We can overlook the author, but if that woman attends, youre sending a message that pro-Israel Jews arent safe at Booksmith. The message linked to Canary Mission. That was a watershed moment, Gozashti-Riddle said. We realized the people organizing this werent rational. And when youre dealing with that level of irrationality, its scary. So the staff took precautions: installing peace marshals from Jewish Voice for Peace and alerting local police. After your event, I finally started using the word harassment, she said. Jed Smith, co-owner and son of the stores founders, said that since Oct. 7 the atmosphere had changed. I saw one comment from a longtime customer who said, On Oct. 8, I decided not to go to that bookstore anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Smith said staffers had vetted me and my book closely for anything incendiary but had found none of the content people had warned them about. They consulted with the American Booksellers Association, American Booksellers for Free Expression, the National Coalition Against Censorship, and local police. They chose not to postpone my event or move it online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith added that, although the store still had patrons support, the campaign had taken a toll. Our customers walked right through the protest lines, he said. We have tremendous community support. We have a lot of love. Im also scared shitless. Seriously. Im scared about our employees safety. And we have to make decisions that are not easy. As the event began in Brookline Booksmith, it felt like entering a different emotional register. The space was standing room only. Still, the protest outside was visible through the big front windows, and a few protesters had taken seats in the first row, arms crossed, staring down my moderator, Mafaz, and me. Before we began, Mafaz turned to me and joked about a sign that read Mafaz is Xamas. I thought it said Mafaz Is Christmas! she said, setting a warm tone for the conversation that followed. She opened by addressing the moment: Moral clarity invites backlash. If these are the consequences for standing against a genocide, then Im proud to bear them. A heckler shouted Genocide by Hamas! but the room didnt take the bait. Advertisement What followed was what Id hoped for, a thoughtful conversation about Islam and parenthood across generations. Mafaz asked about the centrality of women in a book about masculinity, about fatherhood as a spiritual project, and about how my mom felt about my rehashing, in such a public way, the story of her catching me with a girl at home. Advertisement Advertisement The protesters in the front row didnt disrupt the discussion, but their presence was intimidating. When Mafaz asked me to speak about Gaza, I hesitated. I knew that the demonstrators were waiting to pounce on anything they could frame as unbalanced. I answered cautiously. I talked about my lived experience, the grief of seeing mangled children pulled from the rubble who look like my own. I didnt try to provoke. I focused on speaking plainly and without flinching. The store was packed with readers who had carved out time, traveled across town, brought their kids or their friends. About half were Muslim or Arab, and the goal of the reading was the same as writing the book: to have the kind of honest, unguarded conversation thats so rare when youre used to being talked about. I wrote it to reflect our inner lives and to offer something tender and searching and real. And that night, despite everything happening outside, thats exactly what we made room for. Advertisement After the event, a long line formed. One of the protesters leaped to the front. She introduced herself as Sheila. She told me she had read the book the day it came out. All of it. I have a couple of concerns, she said, her hands and lips visibly shaking. She challenged me on why I hadnt included more about Israeli suffering and why Palestinians werent sheltering in Hamas tunnels. When I pointed out that 2023 had already been the deadliest year on record for Palestinian children before Oct. 7, she replied: Those are kids with guns. Advertisement Advertisement I offered to sign her book. Not now, she said with a smile. Peace marshals eventually nudged her along, but I offered to keep the conversation going by exchanging contact info. Advertisement I wrote Becoming Baba to unpack the pressure of passing down to your kids a faith your parents fought to preserve. Since publishing it, Ive been moved to hear from readers that this struggle feels deeply human and relatable to anyone who grew up with religion, not just Muslims. The same goes for Gaza. You dont need to be Arab or Muslim to feel something when you see those images. I cant stand to hear my own kids cry for even a minute. I cant imagine how those parents in Gaza must feel. But I know how I feel. And in a story about becoming a parent while this is happening, that grief becomes part of it. Tens of thousands of children are confirmed dead, with many more still uncounted, buried beneath the rubble. Of course I feel something. I expect you to feel something too. Especially parents. Advertisement My book only briefly mentions Gazas parents and kids, and it triggers protests. I didnt expect to change Sheilas mind. But I hope she and others like her might simply let us breathe. My book mentions Oct. 7, including the killing and kidnapping of Israelis. But given the wasteland Gaza has been reduced tothe inconceivable yet still rising death toll, and the ongoing merciless penning in of starving civilians, including shooting them as they try to retrieve single sacks of flourI hoped she could understand why I wrote about Gaza. I hoped that, for once, Arab and Muslim writers might not be asked to grieve on tiptoe and only if it never makes others uncomfortable, or else that grief will be reframed as somehow threatening. Related From Slate I Heard Lots of Tales of What Fatherhood Would Bring. One Trip Showed Me Like No Other. Read More If she felt that this was impossible, if her politics couldnt accommodate even a flicker of sadness for Palestinians without applying equal or greater sadness to Israelis, I hoped she might consider why she had drifted from the compassion and perspective she demanded of me. Advertisement Advertisement Or, at the very least, I hoped she might ask herself why the mere mention of dead Palestinian children made her visibly shake. Days later, Sheila emailed me to say shed returned my book. It became evident to me that she didnt want balance. She wanted me to know my place in her emotional hierarchy. Her grief had to come first. Mine required a disclaimer. Not a thought in the world, she wrote, for the horror Israelis experienced, that no Palestinian EVER experienced. More than 50,000 children in Gaza have been reportedly killed or injured since October 2023, in what UNICEF calls a harrowing list of unimaginable horrors. More remain uncounted, as they are still missing under the rubble. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. On Tuesday, the Trump administration launched its most direct and aggressive confrontation with the judiciary so far: The Justice Department rejected a federal courts authority to name a new U.S. attorney to New Jersey to replace Alina Habba, the presidents unqualified and sycophantic interim appointee. In replacing Habba, Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, the court was acting under an express grant of power provided by Congressone explicitly permitted by the Constitution and sanctioned by history reaching back to 1789. Nonetheless, the administration responded by firing Habbas constitutionally appointed replacement from the U.S. attorneys office, then slandered the court as a corrupt body of rogue judges allegedly colluding with Democrats to override the authority of the Chief Executive. It is, of course, highly unusual for the executive branch to dismiss the power of the judiciary with such vitriol and disdain. But this administration seems emboldened by the Supreme Courts own disrespect toward the lower courts, paired with the justices expansion of executive authority to new, monarchical extremes. SCOTUS all but teed up this showdown between the two branches by awarding Trump more control over the entire federal government than perhaps any president in history has had. It should come as no surprise that he wields this presidential supremacy to reject core duties of the other two branches. As is so often the case, this crisis is largely one of Trumps own making. The president appointed Habba as interim U.S. attorney for New Jersey despite her utter lack of qualifications and her mottled record as a lawyer. Habba won the appointment by serving as Trumps personal lawyer in civil cases, including sexual harassment lawsuits. She has no prosecutorial experience, and was sanctioned by a federal judge in 2023 for filing a completely frivolous lawsuit against Hillary Clinton on Trumps behalf. (Shes also facing an ongoing ethics investigation for her questionable work on a sexual harassment case involving a Trump employee.) As interim U.S. attorney, Habba destroyed morale among prosecutors through unprofessional behavior and partisan misconduct. Among other acts, she disbanded the offices storied Civil Rights Division and filed absurd criminal charges against two Democratic politicians, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka and New Jersey Rep. LaMonica McIver. (A federal judge harshly criticized the Baraka indictment, which has since been dropped; the mayor is now suing Habba for malicious prosecution.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate The True Purpose of Stephen Millers Reign of Terror Read More These antics made Habba the rare Trump nominee who could not secure confirmation in the Senate. And as an unconfirmed interim U.S. attorney, her tenure expired after 120 days under the federal statute governing this position. That law says that after 120 days are up, the attorney general may name someone else as new interim U.S. attorneyor the federal district court may appoint a U.S. attorney who serves until the vacancy is filled. Attorney General Pam Bondi evidently decided not to line up another loyalist to replace Habba; instead, she and Habba reportedly lobbied the judges on New Jerseys U.S. District Court to reappoint her. That effort flopped, and the court instead named Habbas first assistant, Desiree Leigh Grace, to replace her. Grace is an experienced and respected prosecutor, and her selection was approved by Chief Judge Renee Marie Bumb, a George W. Bush appointee. Advertisement The Justice Department retaliated quickly: Within hours, Bondi announced that Grace had been fired from the U.S. attorneys office. (Bondi suggested that she fired Grace, but only the president can fire an interim U.S. attorney, so Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche had to clarify that the termination came from Trump.) The DOJ, Bondi wrote, does not tolerate rogue judgesespecially when they threaten the Presidents core Article II powers. Her response rested on the allegation that the district court had violated the law by replacing Habba with its own, far more qualified pick. Advertisement Bondi is wrong. The district court was acting pursuant to federal statute awarding it this power. And, in enacting this law, Congress was acting pursuant to an authority spelled out in the Constitution. The Trump administration believes that Article 2 crowns the president a king with absolute control over the executive branch. But the text of Article 2 refutes this idea: It allows Congress to vest the appointment of inferior officers in the courts of law. U.S. attorneys are inferior officers, as the Justice Department itself acknowledges. And Congress has long allowed courts to appoint them; indeed, the Senates initial draft of the Judiciary Act of 1789 gave district courts alone the discretion to appoint prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Victoria Bassetti, a senior adviser at States United Democracy Center and an expert on interim U.S. attorneys, told me this practice has a rich tradition. There is a long history of courts appointing prosecutors in the U.S., stretching back to the earliest days of our country, Bassetti said. In fact, it was not at all uncommon for prosecutors to be a part of the judicial branch in the early 19th century. Notably, the Trump administration previously seemed to accept this reality: Already this year, courts have already appointed 11 interim U.S. attorneys, and the Justice Department did not object. Thats presumably because, in those instances, the courts allowed Trumps interim appointee to continue serving. The DOJ only decided this arrangement is unconstitutional after a district court declined to appoint Trumps chosen prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement In fairness, Bondis position may draw some support from the current Supreme Court, as ahistorical and anti-textual as it may be. In June, three conservative justices signaled that they think inter-branch appointments like this one are inconsistent with the original understanding of the separation of powers. And in Trump v. United States, the Republican-appointed majority embraced a sweeping vision of presidential power that leaves little room for Congress or the judiciary to regulate the actions and personnel of the executive branch. Then there are the optics: Even six months ago, it might have seemed unwise for the Trump administration to treat a federal court with such contempt. But this Supreme Court has rewarded the president and his deputies for defying judicial orders and neutered district courts attempts to rein them in. Last month, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned of her colleagues complicity in the creation of a culture of disdain for lower courts. By embracing that disdain, SCOTUS may have encouraged the Trump administration to escalate its battle against the judiciary by rejecting the validity of its constitutional power of appointment. Advertisement Advertisement What happens next? By firing Grace, Bondi did not actually prevent her from serving as the next U.S. attorney for New Jersey; there is no requirement that the appointee be a current employee of the office. So Grace can still show up for work. But Trump can swiftly fire her if she does, creating another vacancy. At that point, the legal questions get even muddier. The statute governing interim appointees puts a 120-day limit on their service, so under the spirit of the law, Habba should not serve again. And a different law, the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, bars her appointment as an acting U.S. attorney because her nomination remains pending in the Senate. But as Anne Joseph OConnell, a Stanford Law professor who specializes in vacancy issues, has pointed out, there is no penalty for reappointing an interim U.S. attorney after her term expires. For instance, it is not clear that a court would need to void her actions on the ground that she was invalidly reappointed. So Trump may attempt to reappoint Habbaa move sure to set off another legal fight that could culminate in another showdown with the federal court. Every party facing prosecution by Habba could argue that she was unlawfully appointed, rendering all charges against them invalid. That claim would be adjudicated in the very district court that tried to replace Habba. Even if the gambit ultimately failed, it could create enough problems to persuade the Justice Department to land on a permanent, qualified U.S. attorney for New Jersey. Advertisement This mess could have been avoided. Theres no shortage of hard-right lawyers whom Trump could tap for this job to carry out a conservative agenda. But the president wanted an obedient hatchet woman who would persecute his political adversaries and try to help a Republican win the upcoming gubernatorial election, as Habba bragged she would. The district court had every right to send her packing once her term expired. And any other administration probably would have accepted the judges choice as the legitimate exercise of constitutional powers. To this president, though, the Constitution is just a cudgel to be wielded against anyone who tries to check his lawless abusesa view routinely affirmed by the Supreme Court. Is it any surprise that he now treats the judiciary as just another obstacle to be bulldozed? CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) NASCAR will hold a street race on Naval Base Coronado in Southern California next June as a replacement for its downtown Chicago event that ran the last three years. The move to the San Diego area does not eliminate a return to Chicago, where NASCAR will still maintain an office and effort an eventual return, perhaps as early as 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the shift next year will allow NASCAR to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy by hosting all three of its national series over a three-day weekend on June 19-21. As part of our nations 250th anniversary, we are honored for NASCAR to join the celebration as we host our first street race at a military base, Naval Base Coronado, Ben Kennedy, executive vice president and chief venue and racing innovations officer, said Wednesday. NASCAR San Diego Weekend will honor the Navys history and the men and women who serve as we take the best motorsports in the world to the streets of Naval Base Coronado. It will be NASCAR's second street race in the sport's history, following the three-year run in Chicago, and first on an active military base. The course layout is not complete but is expected to be around 3 miles. NASCAR has seen Auto Club Speedway close after the 2023 race. It built a temporary short track inside Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum from 2002 through 2024 but moved that event to North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy, who has been bullish on new endeavors for his family business, was the brains of the races at the Coliseum, Chicago, this year's visit to Mexico City and now next year in San Diego, a venture the Navy is excited about. NASCAR embodies the very best of the American spirit through speed, precision and an unyielding pursuit of excellence," Navy Secretary John C. Phelan said. "Hosting a race aboard Naval Air Station North Island, the birthplace of naval aviation, its not just a historic first, its a powerful tribute to the values we share: grit, teamwork and love of country. From the flight deck to the finish line, this collaboration reflects the operational intensity and unity of purpose that define both the United States Navy and NASCAR." The base is known as the West Coast Quarterdeck and is a consortium of nine Navy installations that stretch from San Clemente Island 50 miles off the coast of Long Beach to the Mountain Warfare Training Facility 50 miles east of San Diego. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NASCAR named Amy Lupo, who has been with the series since 2021 and helped launch the Coliseum, as president of the race. She spent more than 20 years at ESPN expanding the X Games when she lived in San Diego early in her career. She still lives in Southern California. ___ AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/japanese-prime-minister-shigeru-ishiba-denies-reports-of-resignation-1122476906.html Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Denies Reports of Resignation Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Denies Reports of Resignation Sputnik International Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Wednesday denied media reports claiming that he plans to resign soon. 2025-07-23T10:16+0000 2025-07-23T10:16+0000 2025-07-23T10:16+0000 asia shigeru ishiba japan liberal democratic party (ldp) of japan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/1b/1120310233_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_4b38a7e1ce8daf5d7ff2fc05a6085b47.jpg "There were no discussions regarding my future. Such reports appeared in some media outlets, but I never made such statements," Ishiba told reporters at the headquarters of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Japanese media reported earlier in the day that Ishiba plans to resign following the ruling coalition's defeat in the recent upper house elections and could announce the decision by the end of July or August. On Sunday, the Japanese ruling coalition of the LDP and the Komeito party failed to secure the 50 seats they needed for parliamentary majority in the upper house. The ruling coalition now has 122 of 248 seats, compared to 141 seats before the election. The opposition, on the other hand, has significantly increased its presence in the upper house, now holding 126 seats. Despite the loss, the LDP remains the largest party in the upper house, holding 101 seats, including those that were not up for re-election. The main opposition force, the Constitutional Democratic Party, has 38 seats. Shortly after the election, the prime minister said he had no plans to resign, reshape the government or expand the coalition. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250410/closer-to-the-brink-japan-to-carry-out-first-ever-land-to-ship-missile-drills--1121850450.html japan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International japanese prime minister shigeru ishiba on wednesday denied media reports claiming that he plans to resign soon. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/russian-delegation-at-istanbul-talks-still-includes-4-main-members-4-experts-source-1122476164.html Russian Delegation Unveiled for 3rd Round of Istanbul-Hosted Ukraine Talks - Source to Sputnik Russian Delegation Unveiled for 3rd Round of Istanbul-Hosted Ukraine Talks - Source to Sputnik Sputnik International A source informed Sputnik on Wednesday that the Russian delegation for the upcoming round of negotiations with Ukraine will still consist of four main members and four experts. 2025-07-23T07:12+0000 2025-07-23T07:12+0000 2025-07-23T08:02+0000 ukraine russia russia-us talks on ukraine settlement dmitry peskov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/06/02/1122177500_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_fd67326befb78a2ab0e0b5111e365154.jpg The next round of direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine is expected to start in Istanbul on Wednesday evening. This will be the third meeting since the talks resumed in May, following a hiatus of more than three years.The composition of the Russian delegation remains unchanged from previous rounds, the sources added.Moscows delegation includes Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Chief of the Russian General Staffs Main Intelligence Directorate Igor Kostyukov, Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin.The Ukrainian delegation will consist of Rustem Umerov, formerly Ukraines Minister of Defense, now serving as the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, representatives from Ukrainian intelligence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Zelenskys office.According to a senior Turkish official, the heads of Turkish diplomacy and intelligence and a senior military official will also be in attendance.What's On The TableThese documents were exchanged during the second round of talks on June 2.Significant diplomatic work lies ahead before any high- or top-level meetings between the two countries can be considered, noted the Kremlin press secretary.Although reaching agreements on prisoner exchanges or the return of fallen soldiers' bodies would be considered productive, Peskov warned against anticipating swift or comprehensive outcomes.Previously, President Vladimir Putin stated that the Russian negotiating team is in constant contact with their Ukrainian counterparts and confirmed the countrys readiness for the next round.RussiaUkraine Peace Talks Timeline 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 a source informed sputnik on wednesday that the russian delegation for the upcoming round of negotiations with ukraine will still consist of four main members and four experts. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/third-round-of-russia-ukraine-talks-begins-in-expanded-format-in-istanbul-1122479165.html Third Round of Russia-Ukraine Talks Begins in Expanded Format in Istanbul Third Round of Russia-Ukraine Talks Begins in Expanded Format in Istanbul Sputnik International ISTANBUL, (Sputnik) - The third round of Russia-Ukraine talks in expanded format kicked off in Istanbul on Wednesday after opening remarks by Turkish Foreign... 23.07.2025, Sputnik International 2025-07-23T17:56+0000 2025-07-23T17:56+0000 2025-07-23T17:56+0000 world istanbul russia ukraine talks https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/17/1122479011_0:66:1281:786_1920x0_80_0_0_920c09ca6a7aca544f0d8c01dd10ee90.jpg ISTANBUL, (Sputnik) - The third round of Russia-Ukraine talks in expanded format kicked off in Istanbul on Wednesday after opening remarks by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, a Sputnik correspondent reported. The talks are being held at the Ciragan Palace in a closed format after the heads of delegations Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and Ukrainian National Security Council Secretary Rustem Umerov had a private meeting. istanbul 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 istanbul, russia, ukraine, talks https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/ukrainian-side-decided-to-consider-russias-proposal-on-working-groups---russian-delegation-head-1122479408.html Russia Offers Ukraine to Hand Over 3,000 Bodies of Soldiers: Presidential Aide Medinsky Russia Offers Ukraine to Hand Over 3,000 Bodies of Soldiers: Presidential Aide Medinsky Sputnik International The third round of Russian-Ukrainian negotiations took place in Istanbul. 2025-07-23T19:02+0000 2025-07-23T19:02+0000 2025-07-24T05:20+0000 russia-us talks on ukraine settlement vladimir medinsky russia ukraine kursk european union (eu) kiev vladimir putin istanbul turkiye https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/06/0b/1122226185_0:0:3012:1694_1920x0_80_0_0_17b374c5522482930457a27efe9f19be.jpg All humanitarian agreements from the second Russia-Ukraine talks have been fulfilled, including an unprecedented large-scale prisoner exchange, Vladimir Medinsky said. Russia proposed forming three online working groups, which Ukraine agreed to consider. Additionally, Russia suggested short-term ceasefires (24-48 hours) to evacuate the wounded and retrieve soldiers bodies, while offering another prisoner exchange involving at least 1,200 military personnel per side and the handover of 3,000 bodies of deceased Ukrainian servicemen.Not all Kursk region residents replaced by Ukrainian forces to Ukraine have returned; around 30 remain detained under unclear circumstances. Kiev must clarify these civilians' status. Meanwhile, indefinite medical exchanges of severely wounded and sick personnel along the frontline will continue. Positions on memorandums were extensively discussed but remain far apart.Russia completed its list of Ukrainian children under its care, confirming they receive adequate care and safety in state-supervised childcare facilities. Russia demanded Kiev return Russian children taken to Ukraine and provided a list of those in Ukraine/EU countries. Russia expects equal care for its children. Ukraine refuses to hand over civilians or children in exchange but demands their return.A Putin-Zelensky meeting should "finalize the matter" but requires finalized agreement terms and a clearly defined agenda. The Russian delegation emphasized such a meeting must be "properly prepared." Russias human rights commissioners are verifying Ukraines list of children allegedly in Russia, noting many were never there. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250717/ukrainian-proposal-to-trade-wwii-corpses-for-living-prisoners-is-beyond-the-pale-1122453562.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20250713/ukraine-refuses-to-pay-compensation-to-families-of-fallen-soldiers---underground-network-1122432319.html russia ukraine kiev istanbul turkiye 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 istanbul talks, russia-ukraine talks, ukraine-russia talks, ukraine pow exchange, ukrainian children in russia https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/ukrainians-rally-against-crackdown-on-anti-corruption-watchdogs---reports-1122474457.html Ukrainians Rally Against Crackdown on Anti-Corruption Watchdogs - Reports Ukrainians Rally Against Crackdown on Anti-Corruption Watchdogs - Reports Sputnik International Ukrainians rallied in four major cities on Tuesday in protest against the government crackdown on two anti-corruption agencies, Ukrainian media reported on Tuesday. 2025-07-23T04:43+0000 2025-07-23T04:43+0000 2025-07-23T04:43+0000 corruption world corruption scandal ukraine ukrainian security service (sbu) national anti-corruption bureau of ukraine kiev protests anti-government protests antigoverment protests https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/17/1122474585_0:77:3066:1802_1920x0_80_0_0_fa2be866de85f8ee146ad58cbdc8d41d.jpg Earlier in the day, the Ukrainian parliament passed a bill that limits the autonomy of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP). Several lawmakers criticized the government for trying to terminate the anti-corruption watchdogs. Hundreds of people angered by the government's assault on anti-graft agencies gathered in Kiev, with dozens more protesting in the western city of Lvov, according to the footage posted online. Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko was spotted at the rally in the capital. Demonstrations also took place in Dnepropetrovsk, in central Ukraine, and in the southern port city of Odessa. On Monday, Ukrainian news website Strana .ua reported that the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) searched the NABU headquarters. SAP said that the SBU had accessed information about covert operations and special investigations conducted by both NABU and SAP during the raids. Ambassadors of the G7 countries expressed serious concern regarding the SBUs investigation into NABU on Monday, saying they would raise the issue with the Ukrainian government. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/zelensky-signs-bill-curbing-autonomy-of-ukraines-anti-corruption-agencies-1122474311.html ukraine kiev 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 ukrainian corruption, corrupt country, country 404, corrupted regime, corrupt regime, corrupt zelensky, corrupt zelenskyy, failed state, no money, default, protests in ukraine, ukrainians protesting, junta, out of office, demonstrations, protests in kiev https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/us-destroyer-approaches-iranian-controlled-waters-in-gulf-of-oman-1122478282.html US Destroyer Approaches Iranian-Controlled Waters in Gulf of Oman US Destroyer Approaches Iranian-Controlled Waters in Gulf of Oman Sputnik International A US destroyer nears waters controlled by Iran in the Gulf of Oman, prompting a warning from Iranian forces, according to a Wednesday report by Iran's state broadcaster IRIB. 2025-07-23T12:53+0000 2025-07-23T12:53+0000 2025-07-23T12:53+0000 world donald trump gulf of oman islamic republic of iran broadcasting (irib) international atomic energy agency (iaea) israel iran https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/0e/1120144589_75:0:3716:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_7c6c02a93b75fc2d484b43cac7ae6bac.jpg A US destroyer has approached Iranian-controlled waters in the Gulf of Oman, Iranian military issues warning, the Iranian state Television and radio company IRIB reported on Wednesday. Earlier in the day at around 07:30 GMT, the US destroyer DDG Fitzgerald intended to approach Iranian-controlled waters in the Gulf of Oman. After this, an Iranian helicopter took off to warn the US military, but the US destroyer threatened to shoot down the helicopter. In response to a repeated threat from the US destroyer, the Iranian air defense system was activated, thus giving a categorical warning that the helicopter is under full protection of the defense systems and the US destroyer must change its route to the south.On the night of June 13, Israel initiated an operation against Iran, alleging the existence of a covert military nuclear program. Iran denied these claims and retaliated with its attacks. For 12 days, both sides exchanged strikes, with the United States also conducting a one-time attack on Iran's nuclear facilities on June 22.The next evening, Tehran responded with missile strikes on the US base at Al Udeid in Qatar. On June 23, Trump announced that Israel and Iran had reached a ceasefire to conclude the "12-day war."Iran denies the military dimension of its nuclear program. The International Atomic Energy Agency has not seen concrete evidence that Iran has an active nuclear weapons program, Director General Rafael Grossi said on June 18.Iran rejected the allegations and retaliated. The United States conducted a one-time attack on Iranian nuclear sites on June 22. Tehran struck the US Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar in response but said it had "no intention of further escalation." https://sputnikglobe.com/20250722/iran-trounced-israel-and-us-once-trumps-threat-of-rematch-unwise-mohammad-marandi-1122473507.html gulf of oman israel iran 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 a us destroyer nears waters controlled by iran in the gulf of oman, prompting a warning from iranian forces, according to a wednesday report by iran's state broadcaster irib. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/us-to-spend-253mln-at-uks-raf-lakenheath-on-new-facilities-supporting-nuclear-operations-1122474814.html US to Spend $253Mln at UKs RAF Lakenheath on New Facilities Supporting Nuclear Operations US to Spend $253Mln at UKs RAF Lakenheath on New Facilities Supporting Nuclear Operations Sputnik International The United States plans to spend $253 million on two major construction projects, including a hardened Primary Command Post and a Defender Operations Compound, at the RAF Lakenheath air base in the United Kingdom to support future nuclear missions, recently released US Air Forces fiscal year 2026 budget report revealed. 2025-07-23T04:57+0000 2025-07-23T04:57+0000 2025-07-23T04:57+0000 world united kingdom (uk) f-35a us air force us us military bases nuclear weapons f-35 us hegemony https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/17/1122474938_0:10:3072:1738_1920x0_80_0_0_340c6647b0f3b2fe558e805133852d92.jpg The projects include a $104 million Primary Command Post and a $149 million Defender Operations Compound. They are part of a broader effort to prepare the base for what is known as the Surety mission, which focuses on ensuring the safety, security, and control of nuclear assets. The upgrades are designed to modernize the bases ability to command operations and respond rapidly to potential threats involving specialized weapons. The construction comes amid multiple media reports this week that US nuclear weapons, specifically B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bombs, have been transferred to a newly constructed secure storage facility at RAF Lakenheath, marking their return to UK soil for the first time since at least 2008. The bombs, reportedly flown from the US Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center in New Mexico, are modernized, low-yield tactical weapons with variable explosive power and precision guidance, compatible with the F-35A Lightning II aircraft operated by the 48th Fighter Wings 493rd and 495th Fighter Squadrons at the base. Although neither the US Department of Defense nor the UK Ministry of Defense has confirmed the reports due to their policy of not commenting on nuclear weapon locations, this development suggests a significant shift in NATOs nuclear posture in Europe amid heightened tensions with Russia and a renewed emphasis on deterrence. The new Primary Command Post will replace a facility built in 1979 that no longer meets the demands of current and future missions. The upgraded center will consolidate key operational functions, including crisis response, emergency management, and secure communications. It is also being built to withstand high-altitude electromagnetic threats and meet modern standards for intelligence and communications infrastructure. According to the budget documents, the existing command post lacks adequate space, modern equipment, and secure access. Without the upgrade, officials say the base would not be able to support an expanded nuclear role in Europe. Construction is expected to be completed by July 2031. The second project, known as the Defender Operations Compound, is aimed at strengthening protections for potential nuclear assets at the base. It will include a new operations building with an armory, gear storage, and a monitoring facility, as well as a parking area for 22 rapid-response vehicles and a supply warehouse for equipment. These upgrades will accommodate an additional 221 security personnel, bringing the total force to 575. The current security facilities are described as outdated, with issues such as inefficient layouts, inadequate storage, and safety concerns, including asbestos and lead paint. A remote storage site 30 minutes away further complicates operations. Design work for this compound began in 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2027, with construction slated to start in March 2028 and finish by June 2031, according to the budget report. Without these upgrades, RAF Lakenheath would struggle to meet the security and response requirements for nuclear operations, potentially compromising mission readiness in Europe, the report said. The projects, alongside the reported return of nuclear weapons, are likely to draw concern from Russia, which has long viewed such deployments near its borders as provocative and destabilizing, even though NATO describes them as essential to collective defense and deterrence. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241112/eu-now-has-two-choices-new-arms-race-or-mend-fences-with-russia--swedish-military-veteran-1120867792.html united kingdom (uk) Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International arms race, nuclear escalation, nuclear weapons, us air base, european bases, us bases in europe, uk air base, us air force, us hegemony Award will help accelerate deployment of Epicore's Connected Hydration platform to support Air Force operations and training CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Epicore Biosystems (Epicore) announces it has been selected by AFWERX, the innovation arm of the Department of Air Force, for an SBIR Phase II in the amount of $1.2M focused on its Connected Hydration1 wearable platform to address the personalized hydration management and recovery needs of personnel in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018, which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded. Last month, in June 2025, Epicore Biosystems began its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America. "This AFWERX collaboration enables Epicore to deploy our Connected Hydration platform in high-risk, mission-critical environments where human performance and thermoregulation are paramount," said Stephen Lee, CTO and Co-Founder of Epicore Biosystems. "Our product roadmap, which is rooted in smart wearables, hydration data analytics, and real-time haptic feedback and recovery, will now help support the evolving needs of airmen, guardians, and military medics operating under extreme conditions." "The AFWERX contract is a significant milestone in our mission to protect those operating in harsh environments, from industrial worksites to national defense operations," said Roozbeh Ghaffari, CEO and Co-Founder of Epicore Biosystems. "This partnership with the DAF reinforces our commitment to real-time hydration and well-being management for operational readiness, resilience, and safety. We're honored to deploy Epicore's latest in smart wearable technology to support our military personnel." "The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government." About Epicore Biosystems Epicore Biosystems is a digital health company spun out of Northwestern University's Querrey Simpson Institute for Bioelectronics and the John Rogers Laboratory. Epicore has developed advanced sweat-sensing wearables that provide real-time personalized health insights. Their clinically validated smart wearable solutions and cloud analytics are deployed globally and licensed by leading Fortune 500 companies and the Department of Defense. To learn more, visit: https://www.epicorebiosystems.com/ . Follow Epicore on LinkedIn . 1 https://www.epicorebiosystems.com/our-solutions/connected-hydration About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com . About AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 370 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: afwerx.com . SOURCE Epicore Biosystems, Inc. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/witkoff-to-meet-with-israeli-qatari-officials-to-discuss-gaza-deal-1122476737.html Witkoff to Meet With Israeli, Qatari Officials to Discuss Gaza Deal Witkoff to Meet With Israeli, Qatari Officials to Discuss Gaza Deal Sputnik International US Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff will meet with Israeli and Qatari senior officials in Rome on Thursday to discuss negotiations for a hostage release and a ceasefire deal in the Gaza Strip, Axios reported on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter. 2025-07-23T08:33+0000 2025-07-23T08:33+0000 2025-07-23T08:33+0000 world palestine-israel conflict israel gaza strip hamas middle east https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/17/1122476580_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_f15e5b78879edcf9639a1a0ec1618966.jpg A US source and an Israeli source said that the Rome meeting shows that a deal could be reached in the coming days, adding that provided sufficient progress is made, Witkoff will travel from Rome to Doha later in the week to attempt to secure the deal. On July 16, Axios reported that the United States, Qatar and Egypt had presented Israel and Hamas with an updated version of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal, which included the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails, among other things. On June 30, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said that Cairo, along with other mediators, was trying to broker a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of a number of Israeli hostages. Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas on a Gaza ceasefire resumed in Doha on July 6. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250721/israeli-attacks-on-gaza-aid-centers-kill-almost-1000-since-may-27-1122463728.html israel gaza strip 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 special envoy for the middle east steve witkoff will meet with israeli and qatari senior officials in rome on thursday to discuss negotiations for a hostage release and a ceasefire deal in the gaza strip, axios reported on wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250723/zelensky-signs-bill-curbing-autonomy-of-ukraines-anti-corruption-agencies-1122474311.html Zelensky Signs Bill Curbing Autonomy of Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Agencies Zelensky Signs Bill Curbing Autonomy of Ukraine's Anti-Corruption Agencies Sputnik International Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a bill into law that rolls back the autonomy of anti-corruption organizations in Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian parliament's website. 2025-07-23T04:33+0000 2025-07-23T04:33+0000 2025-07-23T04:33+0000 world volodymyr zelensky ukraine ukrainian security service (sbu) national anti-corruption bureau of ukraine corruption corruption scandal ukraine crisis ukrainian conflict proxy war https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0b/0e/1120885313_0:68:2816:1652_1920x0_80_0_0_be4876cca6532eef925e711339d7ae3d.jpg Bill No. 12414, which tightens executive control on anti-corruption agencies, is marked on the Verkhovna Rada's website as "returned with the signature of the president." Earlier in the day, the Ukrainian parliament passed a bill that limits the autonomy of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP). Several lawmakers criticized the government for trying to terminate the anti-corruption watchdogs. Ukrainian media reported on Monday that the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) had conducted searches in the houses of NABU detectives. The NABU later confirmed the searches and stated that they were carried out without a court order. Ambassadors of the G7 countries expressed serious concern regarding the SBUs investigation into NABU on Monday, saying they would raise the issue with the Ukrainian government. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230728/ukraine-corruption-poses-risks-to-us-aid---state-department-1112209797.html 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 ukrainian corruption, corrupt country, country 404, corrupted regime, corrupt regime, corrupt zelensky, corrupt zelenskyy, failed state, no money, default After being scratched sick in her last two scheduled starts, Chantilly returned in rare form as she won the $140,000 Ontario Sires Stakes Gold Leg 3 event for three-year-old pacing fillies on Tuesday, July 22 at Woodbine Mohawk Park. The 1-9 favourite and defending Canadian Horse of the Year is now perfect through 13 career races for her owner and breeder Millar Farms of Stouffville, Ont., trainer Nick Gallucci, and driver James MacDonald. Millar Farms owner George Millar, in the winners circle, told Woodbine broadcaster John Rallis that Chantillys sickness was a little bit more than we anticipated. When we scratched her from the Fan Hanover, she had inflammation in her lungs, and we just couldn't race her with that. We had a vet scope her lungs, and especially her right one wasn't clear. We just would have done a lot of damage if we had raced her. Nick was hoping that he could get her clean by the following week, but it just wasn't working out that way. So you try to do what's best for the horse. Chantilly was an easy winner in the six-horse field. She sat fourth in the early going as Millie May Hanover (Billy Davis Jr.), Perfectly Chic (Bob McClure), and Wickedpace (Jody Jamieson) all left quickly from the gate. Wickedpace led the field through the :26.3 first quarter, but MacDonald had Chantilly out and moving shortly after. She quickly cleared and led the group through the :55.2 half and 1:24.1 three-quarters before opening up in the stretch to record a 1-1/4-length win in 1:50.2 over the last Gold winner, Perfectly Chic. Millie May Hanover was third, Wicked N Single (Louis-Philippe Roy) finished fourth, and Wickedpace grabbed the last cheque. This filly is amazing, MacDonald said. It's a pleasure to drive her. George and Nick, they've been great to me over the years, and it's just great to have another great horse to drive for them Every time I'm sitting behind her, she's just a lot of fun. And I just can't say enough good about her speed or her class. Everything about her is just perfect. Chantilly, a daughter of Big Jim-Shiraz Seelster, is now four-for-four this year and is on the cusp of $1 million in lifetime earnings ($985,256 to be exact). She won the first Gold event of the year on May 24 in a career-best 1:49.4 and has made $224,256 in 2025. Her campaign at two that earned her Horse of the Year honours included wins in the Shes A Great Lady, Eternal Camnation, and her Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final. MacDonald said he was looking forward to racing Chantilly against top U.S. sophomore pacing filly Miki And Minnie and her driver Dexter Dunn before too long. I think Dex and I are waiting for the two giants to hook up and we're just hoping we're both on our very best that day, MacDonald said. I know they're going to put on a good show for the fans they're great horses but I don't think any time is out of [Chantillys] realm. Shes got speed like no horse Ive maybe ever seen. And I just hope one day it sets up and she can put on a show for the clock, too. Millar said he was also looking forward to Chantilly racing against Miki And Minnie, but took objection to a someones suggestion that Chantilly scratched out of the Fan Hanover to duck Miki And Minnie. I can't really believe a person would say that, Millar said. Miki And Minnie is a great horse, but we got a great horse, too. Thats something about horse racing. I love the sport, and to race the best against the best, thats what you want to see. And whatever way the cards fall, that's the way they fall. But, you settle it on the track. Hopefully we'll run against up against her at Pocono, there's a stake race down there, so maybe well race against her in that. Its awesome watching [Chantilly] race Shes a thrill for me right now. Earlier on the card, Osceola returned to victory lane with a lifetime-best performance as he defeated favourite Drawn Impression in the $28,000 Preferred 2 Trot. McClure put him on top before Ghostly Casper (Tyler Borth) pocketed him approaching the quarter and Drawn Impression (Roy) went to the front on the backstretch. Osceola remained in third until peeling out at the top of the stretch, and he chased down Drawn Impression late to win by a head in 1:51.3. Ghostly Casper finished third. Osceola, a five-year-old son of Muscle Mass-Armbro Exquisite, took his 13th career victory in 51 starts. Gregg McNair trains the horse and co-owns him with Willow Oak Racing LLC and Paul Hawman. Osceola knocked a fifth of a second off his previous mark, which he set in his most recent win in a Preferred 2 on May 12. He returned $4.50 to win. One Belle impressed in the first of two $20,000 Pure Ivory first-leg divisions for rookie filly trotters with a 1:54.4 effort. James MacDonald drove on with the daughter of Walner-Ms Savannah Belle to get her to the front on the backstretch, and the filly glided clear of her rivals before powering home to a four-length victory. Shimmering Hanover (Roy) came on for place, followed by In Session (Tyler Jones). One Belle, an Al Libfeld homebred, is undefeated in two starts. She debuted on July 1 and won in similar fashion for trainer Matt Bax. Her backers received $2.80 for a $2 ticket. Wishuponastar Deo captured the second split in a front-stepping performance engineered by Borth. Not content with a pocket ride, he sent her to the front in the second quarter, a lead she held to the wire. Aura Of Athena (Jamieson) gave her a scare late, but she held on by a head in 1:58.2. Calyx (McClure) completed the ticket. Wishuponastar Deo is now two-for-three for trainer Susie Kerwood. The daughter of Six Pack-Wish I Was There was a $22,973 Lexington buy for owners S&R Racing Stable Inc., Ken Backer, and Peter Hearty. She paid $2.90 to win. To view Tuesdays harness racing results, click the following link: Tuesday Results - Woodbine Mohawk Park. (Ontario Racing & Standardbred Canada) The post positions have been selected and drawn for the 59th edition of the Grade 1 Delvin Miller Adios Pace for the Orchids, presented by the Mickey Burke Family, to be contested this Saturday, July 26 at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows. By rule, the elimination heat winners Swingtown and Twisted Destiny selected their posts. Swingtown won the luck of the draw between the two, and trainer Ron Burke selected post four. Twisted Destinys trainer Chris Ryder then chose post three. The remainder of the posts were then drawn randomly for the $385,000 USD race. 2025 Delvin Miller Adios Post - Horse - Listed Driver - Trainer - Morning Line Odds 1. Papis Rocket - Mike Wilder - Ron Burke - 20-1 2. Rick Wink- Chris Page - Ron Burke - 6-1 3. Twisted Destiny - Dexter Dunn - Chris Ryder - 2-1 4. Swingtown - Ronnie Wrenn Jr. - Ron Burke - 4-1 5. Makes Sense - Andrew McCarthy - Robert Cleary - 20-1 6. Railroad Station - Tim Tetrick - Ron Burke - 10-1 7. Wedlock Blue Chip - David Miller - Roland Mallar -12-1 8. Prince Hal Hanover - Todd McCarthy - Dr. Ian Moore - 3-1 9. Sippinonsearoc - Yannick Gingras - Ron Burke - 12-1 Twisted Destiny has been installed as the 2-1 morning line favourite, followed by Prince Hal Hanover (3-1) and Swingtown (4-1). Morning line odds were made by track announcer Jeff Zidek. Note that Rick Wink will be adding Lasix for Saturdays race. Final driver choices must be made by 10 a.m. on Thursday morning. If there are any scratches prior to that time, the Also Eligible horse, Doncic (Dave Palone/Brian Brown), will join the field. The Adios final will be Race 15 on the Saturday card, with first race post set for 11:30 a.m. The Adios will be featured on the FOX Saratoga Saturday broadcast, which runs from 3-6 p.m. MEADOWS TO OFFER $160,000 IN GUARANTEED POOLS SATURDAY Hollywood Casino at The Meadows has announced that $160,000 in combined guaranteed pools will be offered this coming Saturday, July 26. The guaranteed pools will start with Race 1, with a minimum $5,000 pool in the Early Pick-4. Races 3 and 5 will feature $10,000 guaranteed Trifecta pools. Race 6 will kick off the Early Pick-5, with a $10,000 pool guaranteed in conjunction with the U.S. Trotting Associations Strategic Wagering Program and the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association (MSOA). The eighth race of the day will have a $10,000 guaranteed Superfecta pool, while Race 9 will kick off a Pick-4 with a minimum pool of $10,000. Race 10 will offer a minimum $15,000 Trifecta pool. Race 11 on the card will feature the start of a special, Adios Day-only wager, an Adios Pick-6 with a 15 per cent takeout and a 50-cent base wager. The USTA and the MSOA will team with The Meadows to guarantee the pool to $10,000. The 13th race of the program will start an Adios Pick-4 with a minimum $15,000 pool, while the 14th race will have another guaranteed $15,000 Trifecta pool. Race 15 will be the 59th edition of the Delvin Miller Adios Pace for the Orchids. It will have a guaranteed Trifecta pool of $35,000 and a $15,000 Superfecta pool. LINEUP SET FOR ADIOS BROADCAST The Meadows will welcome several special guests to its broadcast on Saturday, which will feature the Grade 1 Delvin Miller Adios Pace for the Orchids. Track announcer Jeff Zidek will host the show and will be joined by a panel that includes: Mike Pribozie Handicapper, founder of NAHUpicks.com and analyst for In The Money Media Kevin Plowcha Pennsylvania-based handicapper, covers The Meadows for NAHUpicks.com Ashley Eisenbeil Director of Marketing, Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association & co-host of Hot 2 Trot podcast Meadow Twaddle Meadows-based digital creator and co-host of the Hot 2 Trot podcast Roger Huston U.S. Hall of Fame announcer who spent more than 40 years in The Meadows broadcast booth will join the show for part of the afternoon and make a special guest race-calling appearance The broadcast will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday. (The Meadows) WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The White House released an artificial intelligence (AI) policy plan on Wednesday spelling out priorities for the U.S. to achieve "global dominance" in the sector. U.S. President Donald Trump's plan calls for open-source and open-weight AI models to be made freely available by developers for anyone in the world to download and modify. The plan also calls for the Commerce Department to research Chinese AI models for alignment with Chinese Communist Party talking points and censorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As previously reported by Reuters, it adds the federal government should not allow AI-related federal funding to be directed toward states with "burdensome" regulations. (Reporting by Chris Sanders, writing by Maiya Keidan) 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 Large language models, such as ChatGPT, perform significantly less well in Portuguese than in English despite both languages being spoken worldwide. This gap has now been closed with "GigaVerbo." The team led by Dr. Nicholas Kluge Correa from the Center for Science and Thought at the University of Bonn is now presenting the project in the journal Patterns. The researchers were among the first to utilize the new "Marvin" supercomputer at the University of Bonn. Nicholas Kluge Correa and his colleague Aniket Sen are both members of the Transdisciplinary Research Area "Sustainable Futures" at the University of Bonn. GigaVerbo is the name of the dataset developed by the researchers. The project "Tucano: Advancing Neural Text Generation for Portuguese" aims to bridge the resource gap in Portuguese natural language processing (NLP) by providing high-quality datasets and cutting-edge language models specifically designed for the Portuguese language. The development and release of the GigaVerbo corpus, comprising 200 billion deduplicated tokens, along with the Tucano family of models, aims to foster progress in neural text generation in an open and reproducible manner, promoting equitable access. The researchers collected several Portuguese corpora from different sources to ensure high linguistic diversity and quality. These corpora were then deduplicated and filtered to form the GigaVerbo dataset. Using this dataset, they trained several decoder models on the Marvin supercomputer, which followed rigorous evaluation and optimization cycles. The project addresses two major gaps: first, the scarcity of comprehensive open-source resources for Portuguese, a language often overshadowed by resource-rich languages like English. Second, the deficiency in open-source LLM development, which impedes the scientific reproducibility of these models. The researchers are currently working to scale up their developments in Portuguese by improving their dataset and training larger models. They are also currently developing resources for other low-resource languages, such as Bengali and Hindi, all thanks to Marvin and the University of Bonn. More information: Nicholas Kluge Correa et al, Tucano: Advancing neural text generation for Portuguese, Patterns (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.patter.2025.101325 Journal information: Patterns 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: Trump signed several executive orders to give his AI plan more legal weight, with his AI czar David Sacks (R) by his side. President Donald Trump unveiled an aggressive, low-regulation strategy on Wednesday to boost big tech's race to stay ahead of China on artificial intelligence and cement US dominance in the fast-expanding field. Trump's 25-page "America's AI Action Plan" outlines three aims: accelerating innovation, building infrastructure, and leading internationally on AI. The administration frames AI advancement as critical to maintaining economic and military supremacy. Environmental consequences are sidelined in the planning document. "America is the country that started the AI race, and as president of the United States, I'm here today to declare that America is going to win it," Trump told an AI event in Washington. "Winning this competition will be a test of our capacities unlike anything since the dawn of the space age," he said, before signing several executive orders to give components of the strategy additional legal weight. In its collection of more than 90 government proposals, Trump's plan calls for sweeping deregulation, with the administration promising to "remove red tape and onerous regulation" that could hinder private sector AI development. In his wide-ranging speech, Trump insisted that "winning the AI race will demand a new spirit of patriotism and national loyalty in Silicon Valley and beyond." Trump complained that for too long "many of our largest tech companies have reaped the blessings of American freedom while building their factories in China, hiring workers in India and slashing profits in Ireland." 'Single standard' The plan also asked federal agencies to find ways to legally stop US states from implementing their own AI regulations and threatened to rescind federal aid to states that did so. "We have to have a single federal standard, not 50 different states, regulating this industry of the future," Trump said. The American Civil Liberties Union warned this would thwart "initiatives to uphold civil rights and shield communities from biased AI systems in areas like employment, education, health care, and policing." The Trump action plan also calls for AI systems to be "free from ideological bias" and designed to pursue objective truth rather than what the administration calls "social engineering agendas," such as diversity and inclusion. This criterion would apply to AI companies wanting to do business with the US government. Trump also called for AI development to be broadly immune from copyright claimscurrently the subject of legal battlessaying it was a "common sense" approach. "You can't be expected to have a successful AI program when every single article, book, or anything else that you've read or studied, you're supposed to pay for," he said. A major focus in the plan involves building AI infrastructure, including streamlined permitting for data centers and energy facilities that would overlook environmental concerns to build as swiftly as possible. The administration, which rejects international science showing a growing climate crisis, proposes creating new environmental review exemptions for data center construction and expanding access to federal lands for AI infrastructure development. Trump also called for the swift construction of coal and nuclear plants to help provide the energy needed to power the data centers. 'Gilded Age' The strategy also calls for efforts to "counter Chinese influence in international governance bodies" and strengthen export controls on advanced AI computing technology. At the same time, the strategy calls on the government to champion US technology in conquering overseas markets, a priority that was spelled out in an executive order. These plans will help "ensure America sets the technological gold standard worldwide, and that the world continues to run on American technology," US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement. Critics of the plan said the policies were a gift to US tech giants that were scaling back their goals for zero carbon emissions in order to meet the acute computing needs for AI. "Trump's plan reads like a twisted Gilded Age playbook that rewards the rich while punishing everyday Americans and the environment," said Jean Su of the Center for Biological Diversity. 2025 AFP The state-of-the-art NHS facility will integrate research, training, and education with clinical care provided by Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH). Given the complexity of the 105 million project, Buildots plays a vital role in enhancing construction efficiency and ensuring maximum value to taxpayers. Buildots' platform compares 360 site imagery against the project's planned BIM model and schedule to generate an accurate view of planned vs actual progress. Its predictive analytics flag at-risk activities early, enabling site teams to proactively address inefficiencies. "When we approach a project like NRC, we look at how we can save taxpayers' money without compromising the quality of the work," said Ryan McCormack, Head of Programme Construction and Commercial at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. "By providing a full picture of the current status of the build, Buildots has helped us to make informed decisions every step of the way to ensure we can open our doors to the patients who need us." With Buildots, IHP and NUH have embedded continuous improvement into their construction management approach, using objective progress data to pinpoint the root causes of delays, shape mitigation plans, and continually measure impact to refine execution. IHP enhances Buildots' insights by integrating biometric turnstile data to track the number of workers onsite. By comparing workforce levels with weekly progress on specific activities, it sees areas where additional labour is needed. "Our top commitments are to the quality of our work and the speed at which we deliver it all the more so when the project is a medical facility," said Will Coupland, Project Director at IHP. "With Buildots, our team is better equipped to identify areas for improvement during construction, execute immediate corrective actions and streamline processes." "We're proud to contribute our extensive experience in healthcare construction to a project as important as the National Rehabilitation Centre," said Aviv Leibovici, Co-founder and CPO of Buildots. "IHP continues to lead the way, embedding data-driven decision-making into every layer of project delivery. This is what the future of healthcare construction looks like: proactive, accountable, and insight-led. We're excited to help shape it." IHP and Buildots' work together on this project was recently shortlisted for the Digital Innovation in Productivity Award at the Digital Construction Awards 2025. It demonstrates Buildots' deep expertise in healthcare construction, building on successful collaborations, such as the Royal Bournemouth Hospital's BEACH building. About Buildots Buildots is a global construction technology leader bringing the power of AI and computer vision to automate on-site progress tracking. The platform provides construction teams with accurate data and previously unavailable predictive performance metrics, empowering them to make data-driven decisions. Buildots' platform improves project visibility and efficiency, leading to reduced delays, enhanced error detection, and successful delivery of projects. Buildots is helping increase efficiencies of large-scale construction projects across North America and EMEA. Media Contact [email protected] Image - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2736198/Buildots.jpg SOURCE Buildots 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 Apple logo is illuminated at a store in the city center of Munich, Germany, Dec. 16, 2020. Credit: AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File Britain's antitrust watchdog has proposed labeling Google's and Apple's mobile ecosystems with "strategic market status," which would mandate changes at the Big Tech companies to improve competition. The Competition and Markets Authority's announcement Wednesday follows separate investigations it opened at the start of the year into Google's Android and Apple's iOS, using newly acquired digital market regulations designed to protect consumers and businesses from unfair practices by Big Tech companies. The watchdog said Apple and Google hold an "effective duopoly," with 90-100% of mobile devices in Britain running on either mobile platform. Its investigation found a range of concerns affecting businesses and consumers such as unpredictable app reviews, inconsistent app store search rankings and commissions on in-app purchases of as much as 30%. The CMA also unveiled separate "roadmaps" for each company outlining possible measures to improve competition, including "fair and transparent" app reviews and app store rankings to give British app developers "certainty." The watchdog also recommends letting app developers "steer" users to channels outside of app stores where users can make purchases, mirroring similar efforts by the European Union. Google called the watchdog's decision "disappointing and unwarranted," and said Android has saved app developers money because they didn't have to adapt to different operating models for each smartphone. It's "crucial that any new regulation is evidence-based, proportionate and does not become a roadblock to growth in the U.K.," the company's senior director of competition, Oliver Bethell, said. Apple said it was worried the CMA's moves could pose increase risks for users and jeopardize the U.K.'s "developer economy." "We're concerned the rules the U.K. is now considering would undermine the privacy and security protections that our users have come to expect, hamper our ability to innovate, and force us to give away our technology for free to foreign competitors," Apple said in a statement. "We will continue to engage with the regulator to make sure they fully understand these risks." The regulator is seeking feedback on its proposal and has until Oct. 22 to make a final decision. 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.